Giant Scorpion

Like the Giant Ants, no one is quite sure what caused the exponential growth in the scorpions in the desert. While it bears resemblance to its smaller kin, there are some differences as well. The venom appears weaker compared with the smaller scorpions and the shell not as thick as it would be if it increased the same amount as its size.

The Giant Scorpion has made itself at home in the desert to the north of Milltown. While sandstorms may occasionally cause it to head towards town, it seems well adapted to the desert environment. Neither the extreme heat of the day nor the cold of the night appears to hamper it.

Like any of the carnivorous arthropods, the scorpion is eight-legged and its body is divided into two parts. The exoskeleton is dense and hard, providing protection from predators. It takes a strong blow to crack the exoskeleton. To date, no method has been found of rendering the scorpion’s shell into armor of any type. (This has not stopped individuals from trying.) Scorpion growth occurs throughout its lifetime and through numerous molts. The molted skin remains mostly intact - often surprising a desert traveler with its lifelike appearance.

The Giant Scorpion has two eyes on the top of the head, and several more pairs along the front corners of the head. This gives it a sharp and clear vision, easily capable of discerning motion. They are opportunistic predators and with the aid of their vision will often scuttle away from prey they feel is too large for them. The preferred form of hunting is ambush and the Giant Scorpion will often wait for the right prey to pass. If a scorpion can subdue it, it will eat it.

During an attack, the Giant Scorpion will scuttle quickly forward and to the side striking out with its envenomed tail. This venom is used to kill or paralyze their prey so that it can be eaten. It generally acts quickly and is rather painful. Even after its death a Giant Scorpion tail contains some viable venom, enabling individuals to use it in combat as a weapon. Scorpions appear able to regulate the delivery of their venom in scale to the size of their target and the perceived threat. While this works well with some prey it often fails when dealing with Adventurous as the Giant Scorpion lacks the ability to discern threat level from appearance.

Generally loners they can be found in small groups – perhaps this is a mating pair or mother and young offspring. They do not appear to view the desert zombies as prey; perhaps the flash has gone through too much mortification.

Paz Cenest: They’re nasty and they gang up.

Janatris: They’re pretty tough...and it can be a little annoying when they spawn together, but the sting they drop, although heavy, can bring some nice gold in.