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This article is about the monster. For the mountain, see Mount Gorgon. |
Gorgon or catoblepas[1][2] is a very dangerous creature which makes lairs in mountain caves. It's either very hostile or powerful enough that both werewolves and witchers show extreme caution to not wake one and to move as quickly and quietly away from their lair – all the while looking over their shoulders to make sure it hasn't been awakened.[3]
It is said that catoblepas means "looking downwards", coming from the fact that the head of this exotic creature (similar to an armored buffalo) is so heavy the beast constantly stares down. That's fortunate as catoblepas is so full of poisons it kills all life at a place just by breathing or gazing at it. This is because catoblepas feeds on poisonous herbs, grasses and prickly bushes which no other animal dares to touch. Therefore another name of that beast is gorgon because much like the Greek Gorgona it kills by gaze.[1]
Even though it's a rare delicacy due to the creature's scarce numbers and apparent viciousness, Temerian cream favors catoblepas meat for its unique taste. Especially Princess Adda the White did, though rumors had it in her case it was because catoblepas meat taste resembles human flesh.[2]