guivre

The guivre is a mythical creature originating from medieval European legends, particularly those of France. It is often depicted as a serpent or dragon, sometimes wingless, and is typically described as having venomous breath or a poisonous bite. Unlike more common dragons that often hoard treasure or breathe fire, the guivre's primary threat is its venom, which can be lethal to those it strikes.

Stories featuring guivres often involve knights or heroes who must defeat them to protect a village or win the hand of a princess. The guivre's appearance can vary, but it is generally serpentine, sometimes with legs or a more reptilian form, and occasionally with a crown or other regal markings. Its association with venom and water sources, such as rivers or wells, is a recurring theme in folklore.

The guivre's lore is intertwined with broader dragon and serpent myths found across cultures, though its distinct characteristics, particularly its venomous nature, set it apart. It represents a primal danger, a beast lurking in the natural world that must be overcome by human courage and strength. The name itself is thought to derive from the Latin word "vipera," meaning viper.