A sourced illustration has not yet been added. This gap is included in the coverage record.
Overview
Thog lurks below lotus-dreaming Xuthal, periodically preying on inhabitants who fear it as a god. Thalis describes this arrangement but cannot establish its ultimate origin. In the confrontation with Natala, its toadlike face and grasping appendage are clearer than its unstable dark body.
Conan's intervention becomes a brutal struggle against a tangible, viscous opponent. The creature falls into a well, leaving him badly injured. He does not know whether steel can kill it. This ending supports repulsion and injury rather than confirmed destruction, and gives no reliable basis for classifying every part of its anatomy.
First appearances & development
This profile follows Howard's original story, identified in the bibliography. Later comics, films and roleplaying adaptations are separate witnesses and are not imported into this account.
Canon & continuity
The linked transcription supports a concise account of the specific encounter. Character testimony and narrative observation remain distinct. The transcription is not tied to one verified printed edition.
Selected bibliography
Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.
- 01
The Slithering Shadow / Xuthal of the Dusk
Original prose encounter; edition uncertain.
Family & connections
A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.
References
Sources supporting this profile. Linked pages have their own scope and editorial standards.
- Primary workRobert E. Howard: The Slithering Shadow / Xuthal of the Dusk (original story text)Research access: 2026-10-05
Image credits
A sourced illustration has not yet been added. This gap is included in the coverage record.