Venom (substance)
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Venom is a type of poison that is actively delivered by an animal through a bite, sting or other injection method — it's weaponised and requires a delivery system like fangs, barbs or stingers. In the making of poisons, venom is especially useful because it comes pre-adapted for injection or direct application to living tissue — it's already a precision-engineered delivery system. Unlike general poisons, which may need to be refined, distilled or combined with solvents to work effectively, venom is often ready for immediate use in coating weapons, crafting injectable toxins or designing paralytics and necrotics that take effect through contact with blood or muscle. It tends to act faster, penetrate more deeply and interact more cleanly with biological systems, making it ideal for concoctions meant for targeted strikes, surgical sabotage or enchantments that simulate natural predation.
Unpreserved venom begins to break down quickly once extracted — typically within a few hours to a day, depending on temperature, exposure to air and contamination. Many venom components are proteins or enzymes, which denature and lose potency as they degrade, especially if not kept cool or sealed. In warm, open conditions, venom can sour within six to eight hours, losing much of its reactive quality, and becoming more of a weak irritant than a functional toxin.
For a poisoner, proper storage is essential. If immediately suspended in alcohol, oil or certain alchemical preservatives, venom can retain its potency for days or weeks. Magical containment — such as storing it in a glass ampoule etched with runes or kept under a stasis effect — can preserve it indefinitely. Without such precautions, venom spoils faster than most dry or mineral-based poisons, making it potent but perishable.
Suitability
For invasive poisons, wyvern venom is one of the best choices; it is fast-acting, lethal and holds its potency for several minutes after exposure to air. It clings well to blades and arrowheads, making it ideal for use in open combat. Centipede venom is less deadly but causes intense localised pain and swelling, useful for disabling or distracting opponents. Spider venom, when refined, induces disorientation and dizziness, making it highly effective on slashing weapons in melee.
For paralytics, carrion crawler mucus is a favourite due to its contact-based application and reliable ability to cause temporary paralysis. It is particularly useful for non-lethal take-downs or incapacitating sentries. Ghoul ichor, though unstable, can be alchemically stabilised to simulate magical paralysis. When handled properly, it is potent and fast-acting. Gelatinous jelly can numb limbs or induce partial paralysis. Though slower to activate, its effects last much longer once it enters the bloodstream.
For necrotics, green dragon bile acts as a powerful corrosive that can destroy tissue and weaken structural integrity. It is often turned into pastes or salves for use in sabotage or brutal surgical procedures.
Creatures Possessing Venom
Monsters able to use venom include (partial list):
See also,
Natural Abilities
The Adventure
