Description

In the dim glow of torchlight, the glimmer of gold, silver, and gemstones beckons adventurers forward. But within these dazzling riches lurks a deadly deception—Treasure Bugs, venomous insects that mimic coins and jewels, waiting for the greedy and the unwary. These cunning predators infest dungeons, crypts, and abandoned temples, using their luster to lure victims into their grasp. Their hardened shells shimmer like precious metals, and their eyes glisten like polished gems, making them nearly indistinguishable from real treasure until it's too late.

Behavior & Hunting Tactics

Treasure Bugs rely on ambush tactics, lying motionless amidst real wealth until they sense warmth and movement. Once a target draws close, they strike, scuttling toward exposed skin—wrists, necks, and faces—where their needle-like mandibles inject a fast-acting venom. Victims are paralyzed within moments, left helpless as the insects either begin to feed or lay their eggs within the immobilized body.

Some species of Treasure Bugs form colonies, known as Crown Hives, disguising themselves as elaborate, gem-encrusted crowns. The moment an adventurer places one upon their head, the entire swarm bursts to life, hundreds of tiny legs scrambling over their face as venomous fangs sink into flesh, ensuring a gruesome fate.

Variants & Adaptations

1. Coin Bugs – Small, flat-bodied insects that resemble stacks of gold, silver, or copper. They move in clusters, swarming hands and arms before injecting venom.
2. Jewel Crawlers – Faceted carapaces give these creatures the appearance of flawless gems. When disturbed, they flicker with iridescent colors and strike with needle-sharp appendages.
3. Crown Hives – Entire colonies disguised as a singular, opulent treasure. When worn, they unleash a full swarm, suffocating and poisoning their victim.

Encounter Tips

1. Fire and magical light disrupt their camouflage, revealing their unnatural movements.
2. The best defense? Let someone else grab the treasure first.

In the end, the allure of riches may lead only to agony—for what gleams in darkness does not always bring fortune, but ruin.