The Godfire Scorpion

The godfire scorpion is a large, venomous scorpion native to the valleys surrounding Raantchlaan.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Godfire scorpions are large arachnids, about the length of two human hands, with 6 legs, 2 pinchers, and a barbed tail for administration of venom. Their unusually thick carapace provides protection from the harsh conditions of the Gouge, but renders them rather sluggish and bulky--a disadvantage which prompted the evolution of an extremely potent venom that, while not deadly, causes enough pain to deter almost any would be predator.

Ecology and Habitats

Godfire scorpions tend to be found in lower elevations in the valleys surrounding Raantchlaan and the nearby mountain ranges. They favor dark but arid places, and can regularly be found in caves or hiding in large rock formations. They also seem to be drawn to areas where the Gouge's magic is more stable, and can almost always be found near the ruins of the monoliths.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Though avoided by most inhabitants of the Gouge on account of their extremely painful sting, godfire scorpions are regularly collected by the Vesikatli for use by the Kzkaatli-Sankral. The scorpion's venom is a central part of their initiation rite, serving both as an excruciating ordeal and pigment for the tattoos that mark their station, as the venom is known to turn a brilliant, lasting crimson when it encounters human blood.

Godfire scorpions are also occasionally eaten as a survival food, but the practice is rare, as they provide relatively little sustenance relative to the potential agony involved in catching them, and are challenging to eat due to their thick carapace. Still, they can be valuable as a protein source when other options have run out, and those few who have eaten them claim that they actually taste alright, possessing an earthy taste with a faint sourness to it.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Godfire scorpions have poor eyesight, but are extremely sensitive to vibration.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Godfire scorpions are a reflective blue-ish black, with bands of lighter grey running lengthwise down the top of their carapace.

Geographic Distribution

• Raantchlaan