Glassvenom

Definition:

Glassvenom is a crystalline toxin secreted by rare subterranean insects known as shardcrawlers. Found in deep caverns rich in mineral deposits, the venom behaves like molten glass within the bloodstream — sharp, glistening, and excruciating. Once introduced into a body, it rapidly hardens in microscopic slivers, tearing through tissues and embedding itself in muscle and bone. It is nearly invisible to standard detection magic due to its inorganic nature.

Symptoms:

Internal Laceration:

Victims report a deep, slicing pain from within, especially around joints and pressure points. Movement worsens the sensation, as the hardened venom shifts and cuts through muscle.

Crystalline Fever:

A burning fever sets in, accompanied by glassy, bloodshot eyes and pale, glittering skin as the shards accumulate near the surface.

Tactile Sensitivity:

Touch becomes unbearable. Even light contact causes spasms of pain, as if the skin itself were cracking.

Bleeding and Bruising:

Minor wounds bleed excessively, and strange patterns of internal bruising begin to form along the venom's crystalline growth.

Progression:

Early Stage:

Localized pain and minor swelling occur at the injection site. Victim may feel lightheaded or chilled.

Middle Stage:

The venom spreads. Joint stiffness and fever follow, with shard-formation causing spasmodic movements and bleeding from mucous membranes.

Final Stage:

The victim collapses as vital organs begin to crystallize internally. If left untreated, death occurs within 3–6 days, often marked by a final, full-body seizure.

Origin:

Glassvenom originated from the shardcrawler, a bioluminescent arthropod found in the Crystal Veins beneath the Obsidian Hollow. These creatures extract silicate minerals from stone and secrete their venom as both defense and digestion.

Known Locations:

Obsidian Hollow (Underground).
The Shard Dens of Ral’Torrim.
Collapsed Mines of Old Brekthar.
Miners, spelunkers, and underground mages are most at risk.

Treatment and Recovery:

Extraction Ritual:

Because the venom crystallizes, standard antitoxins fail. Specialized blood-purging rituals involving sound resonance or vibrating metals can shatter and dislodge the shards.

Lunar Salves and Alkahest Compresses:

Topical treatments made from moonflower sap and alchemical solvents can soothe nerve endings and slow crystal growth.

Magical Suspension:

Advanced practitioners may place the victim in stasis to prevent movement and allow the venom to be neutralized gradually.

Prevention and Countermeasures:

Carry Alkahest Vials for emergency internal dissolving (painful but effective).
Avoid abandoned mine tunnels with residual crystal dust.

Type

Chemical Compound