Chameleon Sting

From: Aquilarachnid

This specially crafted shortbow is made from chameleon bone and imbued with the creature’s natural venomous properties. Arrows fired from this bow have a chance to inflict poison damage on the target, causing lingering damage over time.

Level: Tier 1

Stats:

• Weapon Type: Shortbow
• Damage Type: Piercing
• Special Property: Poison

Attuned passive: (May be continuing or have charges)

If target is hit, causes poisoned condition giving an additional 1d4 poison damage at the beginning of the targets turn as a lingering effect, continues causing damage over time until combat ends for the target.

Attuned actionable: (May be continuing or have charges)

Inflicts 1d6 piercing damage.

Additional 1d4 poison damage.

Cost: 600 gold

Tags: Equipment, Shortbow, Chameleon, Venomous, Piercing, Ranged, Poisoned, Toxic, Stealth, Precision, Ambush, Alchemical, Crafted, Exotic, Legendary, Bone, Light Weapon, Magic-infused

Lore: The Chameleon’s Sting is a legendary weapon, renowned for its deadly efficiency and the unique materials from which it is crafted. It is said that skilled artisans and alchemists combined their knowledge to create this shortbow, using the bones of a chameleon and infusing it with potent venom. The process of crafting the Chameleon’s Sting is closely guarded and known to only a select few, as it involves a delicate balance between extracting and refining the chameleon’s natural toxins.

Use: When wielding the Chameleon’s Sting, an archer gains the benefits of a powerful shortbow. The arrows fired from this bow are capable of inflicting piercing damage on the target. In addition to the physical damage, there is also a chance that the arrows will deliver the chameleon’s venom into the target’s bloodstream. This poison has lingering effects, causing damage over time, and weakening the opponent.

The Chameleon’s Sting provides archers with a versatile weapon, enabling them to strike from a distance and potentially incapacitate enemies through the venomous properties of the chameleon’s bone. It is a prized possession among those who value both precision and the element of surprise.

The Chameleon Sting, a rare and valuable weapon, is typically found in specialized shops that cater to adventurers, alchemists, and those with a penchant for exotic weaponry. These shops are usually located in bustling cities or well-traveled trade hubs within the world of Saṃsāra, often hidden away in narrow alleyways or behind inconspicuous doors that only those in the know can easily find.

Shops Selling the Chameleon Sting

• Curio Bazaars: These markets are known for their eclectic mix of rare items, magical artifacts, and exotic curiosities. The Chameleon Sting might be found here, displayed in a locked glass case, with the shopkeeper touting its unique properties to discerning buyers. Haggling is common, and the final price can vary based on the buyer’s reputation and negotiation skills.
• Alchemist’s Emporiums: Given the weapon’s alchemical nature, certain high-end alchemist shops may stock the Chameleon Sting. These establishments not only sell potions and magical ingredients but also weapons and items imbued with alchemical properties. The Chameleon Sting would be prominently displayed alongside other alchemical marvels, and the shopkeeper might offer a demonstration of its venomous effects to convince a potential buyer of its worth.
• Guild Weapon Smiths: Weapon shops associated with adventurers’ guilds or specialized craftsmen guilds might carry the Chameleon Sting. These shops often serve the most elite adventurers and warriors, offering weapons that have been tested and certified by the guild. The weapon might be reserved for high-ranking guild members or sold at a premium to outsiders.
• Black Market Dealers: In some of the less reputable corners of Saṃsāra, the Chameleon Sting might be found in the hands of black market dealers. These underground merchants deal in contraband and items too rare or dangerous for mainstream sale. The price here would be steep, and the transaction would likely be conducted in secret, possibly involving a dangerous exchange.
• Enchanter’s Boutique: A boutique run by a skilled enchanter might offer the Chameleon Sting as part of a collection of enchanted weapons. The boutique would cater to wealthy clients, such as nobility or successful adventurers, and the Chameleon Sting would be presented as a luxury item, complete with a detailed backstory and certification of its magical properties.

Cost in Saṃsāra — In the world of Saṃsāra, the Chameleon Sting would be considered a high-tier item due to its unique properties and the rarity of the materials used in its creation. The base cost of 600 gold pieces reflects its value, but this price can vary depending on the location and the circumstances of the sale:

• Curio Bazaar: 600 to 750 gold pieces, depending on haggling and the buyer’s skill.
• Alchemist’s Emporium: 650 to 800 gold pieces, with the possibility of bartering using rare ingredients or services.
• Guild Weapon Smith: 700 to 850 gold pieces, with discounts possible for guild members or those with high reputation.
• Black Market Dealer: 800 to 1000 gold pieces, due to the risk involved and the premium placed on rare items.
• Enchanter’s Boutique: 750 to 900 gold pieces, with the weapon presented as a luxury item and possibly bundled with other enchantments or services.

Each of these establishments would provide a unique experience in purchasing the Chameleon Sting, with the cost reflecting the rarity, the risk, and the prestige associated with owning such a powerful and exotic weapon.

The Chameleon Sting, with its unique blend of piercing and venomous properties, offers versatile roleplay opportunities in various environments for both defense and offense. The weapon’s design, imbued with the essence of the chameleon, makes it an ideal choice for characters who value stealth, precision, and strategic combat. Below are examples of how the Chameleon Sting might be used in different environments within the world of Saṃsāra.

• Forest or Jungle Environment
  • Offense:
    • In dense forests or jungle settings, the Chameleon Sting is perfectly suited for ambush tactics. The archer could take advantage of the natural cover provided by trees, bushes, and foliage to remain hidden. From a concealed position, they could launch surprise attacks on unsuspecting enemies. The venomous arrows would weaken the target over time, causing them to succumb to the poison as they struggle to navigate the thick underbrush.
    • The chameleon-like properties of the weapon might also allow the archer to blend in with the surroundings, making it difficult for enemies to locate the source of the attack. This could be particularly effective when targeting high-value enemies or hunting dangerous beasts.
  • Defense:
    • When defending a position within a forest or jungle, the Chameleon Sting can be used to harass and slow down advancing enemies. By strategically placing shots that cause the poisoned condition, the archer can create a defensive perimeter, forcing enemies to reconsider their approach. The lingering poison damage would make it challenging for enemies to maintain their strength and focus as they push through the dense environment.
    • The archer could also use the weapon to defend against wild animals or monsters native to the jungle, weakening them before they can close the distance for a direct attack.
• Urban or Cityscape Environment
  • Offense:
    • In an urban environment, the Chameleon Sting can be used for precision strikes from rooftops, alleyways, or hidden vantage points. The archer might engage in hit-and-run tactics, striking at key targets and then disappearing into the crowded streets or darkened alleys. The poison’s lingering effect would be particularly useful in urban skirmishes, as it can weaken guards or rival gang members without drawing too much immediate attention.
    • The bow’s small size and lightweight design make it easy to conceal, allowing the archer to carry it in crowded markets or public spaces without arousing suspicion. When the moment is right, they could draw and fire with deadly accuracy before blending back into the crowd.
  • Defense:
    • Defensively, the Chameleon Sting can be used to protect a safehouse or hideout within the city. The archer could set up a series of defensive positions, using the bow’s range to keep enemies at bay while the poison wears them down. This would be especially effective in narrow streets or over crowded rooftops where the archer can control the flow of combat.
    • If the archer needs to defend against a pursuing force, they could use the Chameleon Sting to slow down and disorient the pursuers. A well-placed shot could turn a narrow escape into a successful evasion as the poisoned enemies struggle to keep up.
• Underground or Dungeon Environment
  • Offense:
    • In the confined spaces of dungeons or underground caves, the Chameleon Sting’s ability to poison and weaken targets over time is invaluable. The archer could take advantage of narrow corridors and limited visibility to launch attacks from the shadows, forcing enemies to navigate treacherous terrain while under the effects of the poison.
    • The Chameleon Sting could be used to target key figures among enemy groups, such as spellcasters or leaders, whose weakened state might turn the tide of battle. The bow’s stealthy nature allows the archer to strike without revealing their position, making it difficult for enemies to retaliate effectively.
  • Defense:
    • When defending within a dungeon or cave, the Chameleon Sting allows the archer to create choke points where enemies are forced to move slowly and carefully due to the threat of poison. The lingering damage from the poison makes it difficult for enemies to mount a sustained offensive, buying time for the archer and their allies to prepare countermeasures.
    • The Chameleon Sting could also be used to protect against the various creatures that inhabit underground environments. The venomous properties of the bow might prove particularly effective against poisonous or venomous creatures, using their own strengths against them.
• Coastal or Aquatic Environment
  • Offense:
    • In coastal areas or near bodies of water, the Chameleon Sting can be used for precise attacks from rocky outcroppings or hidden coves. The archer might target enemies approaching by sea, using the bow’s range to strike at exposed crew members or weaken the sails of enemy ships. The poison’s lingering effect would add to the confusion and chaos, making it difficult for enemies to coordinate their defense.
    • The Chameleon Sting’s lightweight design also allows for quick mobility along the shoreline, enabling the archer to take advantage of tidal movements and shifting terrain.
  • Defense:
    • Defensively, the Chameleon Sting can be used to protect a coastal village or port from raiders or sea monsters. The archer could position themselves on cliffs or defensive walls, using the bow’s range and poison to deter attackers before they reach the shore. The venomous arrows would slow down any landing party, giving the defenders time to mount a proper response.
    • The Chameleon Sting might also be used to defend against aquatic threats, such as sea creatures or amphibious enemies. The bow’s poison could weaken these creatures, making them easier to fend off before they can reach the shore or breach defenses.

Roleplay Opportunities

• Stealth and Precision: Characters wielding the Chameleon Sting can emphasize stealth and precision in their roleplay. They might be portrayed as calculating and methodical, taking the time to set up the perfect shot and striking only when the odds are in their favor.
• Strategic Combat: The weapon’s poison effect encourages strategic thinking, as the character must decide when to strike and how to maximize the lingering damage over time. This could lead to interesting roleplay scenarios where the character must outthink their opponents, using terrain and timing to their advantage.
• Moral Dilemmas: The use of a weapon that causes lingering, painful damage might lead to moral dilemmas for the character. They could struggle with the ethical implications of using poison in combat, particularly if their enemies are not inherently evil. This could lead to character development and nuanced roleplay interactions with allies and enemies alike.
• Legendary Reputation: Wielding such a unique and deadly weapon might earn the character a legendary reputation, both feared and respected by those who know of the Chameleon Sting’s power. This reputation could influence interactions with NPCs, leading to both opportunities and challenges as the character navigates the world of Saṃsāra.

The Chameleon Sting provides a rich array of roleplay possibilities, making it a valuable and interesting weapon for any character looking to blend stealth, strategy, and a touch of deadly precision in their adventures across Saṃsāra.

Perception of Activation: When the Chameleon Sting shortbow is activated, the experience engages not only the five traditional senses but also extends into the realm of extra-sensory perception. Here’s how it might be perceived:

• Sight
  • Perception: Upon activation, the bow shimmers subtly, and the colors of the chameleon bone intensify, shifting rapidly through hues of green, brown, and blue. The bowstring glows faintly, like a line of light, as the poison infuses the arrow.
  • Description: The visual effect is mesmerizing, creating an aura of otherworldly energy around the weapon. The shifting colors make it harder to track the bow’s exact shape, almost as if it is blending into the surroundings.
  • Positives: The shifting colors can disorient onlookers, providing the archer with a momentary advantage as their opponents may lose focus.
  • Negatives: The visual shimmer and glow might give away the archer’s position, particularly in low-light or stealth-dependent situations.
• Sound
  • Perception: A faint, almost imperceptible hum or whispering sound accompanies the bow’s activation, reminiscent of wind rustling through leaves or a distant hiss.
  • Description: The sound is subtle and may go unnoticed in the heat of battle, but to those attuned to it, it feels like a warning or a signal that something dangerous is about to happen.
  • Positives: The low hum can serve as an auditory cue for the archer, indicating that the bow is fully activated and ready to unleash its power.
  • Negatives: In quiet environments, the sound might be heard by nearby creatures, alerting them to the presence of the archer.
• Touch
  • Perception: The bow’s handle grows warm and slightly vibrates, a sensation that travels up the archer’s arm, signaling that the poison is ready to be released.
  • Description: The warmth is not uncomfortable but gives the archer a heightened sense of connection to the weapon, as if the bow is a living extension of their will.
  • Positives: The tactile feedback reassures the archer that the bow is functioning correctly, boosting confidence in the impending shot.
  • Negatives: The warmth might become distracting during prolonged use, causing slight discomfort or a feeling of fatigue in the arm.
• Smell
  • Perception: A faint scent of earthy, bitter herbs fills the air around the archer, reminiscent of damp forests or fresh-cut foliage.
  • Description: The smell is subtle but distinct, carrying a sense of nature and the wild. It may evoke memories of deep forests or untamed wilderness.
  • Positives: The scent could potentially mask the archer’s own scent, helping to blend into natural environments.
  • Negatives: The unique aroma might be noticeable to creatures with keen senses of smell, potentially giving away the archer’s position.
• Taste
  • Perception: If the archer’s mouth is open during activation, they might perceive a slightly metallic, bitter taste on their tongue, as if inhaling the essence of the venom.
  • Description: The taste is faint but lingers for a moment, adding to the intensity of the experience and reminding the archer of the potent poison at their command.
  • Positives: The taste could serve as an additional sensory cue that the poison is active and ready to be delivered to the target.
  • Negatives: The taste might be unpleasant, causing a momentary distraction or discomfort for the archer.
• Extra-Sensory Perceptions
  • Aura Perception
    • Perception: The archer might perceive a faint, glowing aura surrounding the bow, visible only to those with heightened magical awareness. The aura pulses in rhythm with the archer’s heartbeat.
    • Description: This aura is a visual manifestation of the weapon’s power, symbolizing the melding of the chameleon’s essence with the archer’s intent.
    • Positives: The aura can provide the archer with a sense of assurance, knowing that the weapon’s full potential is at their disposal.
    • Negatives: Those attuned to magical auras might detect the bow’s activation, making it difficult to remain hidden from other magic users.
  • Poison Sense
    • Perception: The archer might feel a tingling sensation or a slight pressure in their chest, as if they are momentarily connected to the toxic energy within the bow. This feeling sharpens their focus and heightens their awareness of the target.
    • Description: This sensation is like a sixth sense, allowing the archer to “feel” the readiness of the poison, almost as if they can sense its potency coursing through the arrow.
    • Positives: The sensation enhances the archer’s confidence in the weapon’s effectiveness, making them more decisive in their attacks.
    • Negatives: The connection to the poison might carry a psychological burden, causing the archer to feel uneasy or burdened by the knowledge of the weapon’s lethality.
  • Temporal Awareness
    • Perception: During activation, the archer might experience a slight distortion in their perception of time, where everything seems to slow down just enough for them to line up the perfect shot.
    • Description: This heightened awareness allows the archer to see their target with greater clarity, predicting movements and adjusting their aim with almost supernatural precision.
    • Positives: This temporal awareness can greatly enhance the archer’s accuracy, making it easier to land critical hits or target weak points.
    • Negatives: The sensation of time slowing down might be disorienting at first, potentially causing the archer to overthink their actions or hesitate.
  • Emotional Resonance
    • Perception: The archer might feel a surge of primal emotion, such as determination or controlled aggression, as if the bow is amplifying their inner resolve to strike true.
    • Description: This emotional resonance connects the archer with the chameleon’s predatory instincts, enhancing their focus and determination to achieve their objective.
    • Positives: The surge of emotion can bolster the archer’s morale, making them more resolute in the face of danger and more willing to take bold actions.
    • Negatives: The intensity of the emotion might lead to impulsive decisions or cloud the archer’s judgment if not kept in check.
  • Cognitive Clarity
    • Perception: The archer’s mind might sharpen, their thoughts becoming more focused and their decision-making process more streamlined. It feels as though the weapon is guiding them toward the most effective course of action.
    • Description: This clarity enhances the archer’s strategic thinking, allowing them to quickly assess the battlefield and choose the best targets for their poisoned arrows.
    • Positives: The boost in cognitive clarity can lead to more effective combat strategies and quicker responses to changing situations.
    • Negatives: Over-reliance on this clarity might make the archer overly confident, leading them to take risks they might otherwise avoid.

Summary of Positives and Negatives:

• Positives: The Chameleon Sting’s activation engages multiple senses, providing the archer with enhanced focus, precision, and confidence. The weapon’s various sensory cues and extra-sensory perceptions serve to guide the archer in making effective decisions during combat, offering a blend of stealth, strategic advantage, and psychological reinforcement.
• Negatives: The intense sensory experience and connection to the weapon’s poison can also be disorienting or distracting, particularly in prolonged engagements. The visual and auditory cues might give away the archer’s position, and the emotional and psychological effects could lead to overconfidence or impulsive decisions. The archer must balance the power of the Chameleon Sting with careful control to avoid potential drawbacks.

Crafting Recipe: The Chameleon Sting

• Materials Needed:
  • Chameleon Bone (x1): The primary material for the bow, harvested from a large chameleon or similar creature known for its natural camouflage abilities.
  • Venomous Gland (x2): Extracted from the same chameleon or another venomous creature, these glands will infuse the bow with its poisonous properties.
  • Spider Silk String (x1): Harvested from a giant spider or another arachnid with strong, resilient silk, this will serve as the bowstring.
  • Enchanted Resin (x2 vials): A special resin imbued with magical properties, used to bind the materials together and enhance the bow’s durability.
  • Essence of Stealth (x1 vial): A distilled essence from rare plants or creatures with natural stealth abilities, used to augment the bow’s ability to blend into its surroundings.
  • Weathered Leather (x1 strip): Leather from a creature accustomed to harsh environments, used for the grip, providing both comfort and durability.
• Tools Required:
  • Bone Carving Knife: A precision tool for shaping and refining the chameleon bone.
  • Alchemy Kit: For extracting venom and creating the Essence of Stealth.
  • Bowyer’s Workbench: A specialized workbench equipped with clamps, molds, and tools for bow crafting.
  • Enchanter’s Anvil: A magical anvil used to imbue items with enchanted properties during the crafting process.
  • Threading Needle: A fine needle for threading the spider silk string through the bow.
• Skill Requirements:
  • Boneworking (Expert Level): Proficiency in carving and shaping bone into functional, intricate items.
  • Alchemy (Advanced Level): Knowledge of venom extraction and the creation of magical essences.
  • Enchanting (Intermediate Level): Ability to imbue items with magical properties.
  • Bowyer (Advanced Level): Expertise in crafting and assembling bows, ensuring proper tension, flexibility, and durability.
• Crafting Steps:
  • Harvesting the Chameleon Bone:
    • Carefully extract the bone from a chameleon or similar creature. Ensure that the bone remains intact and undamaged, as its natural properties are essential for the bow’s effectiveness.
    • Clean the bone thoroughly, removing any remaining flesh or impurities, using the Bone Carving Knife.
  • Shaping the Bow:
    • Use the Bone Carving Knife to carefully carve the chameleon bone into the shape of a shortbow. Focus on preserving the natural curvature and flexibility of the bone while enhancing its structural integrity.
    • Carve intricate patterns resembling chameleon scales along the bow’s limbs to enhance its aesthetic appeal and magical potential.
  • Infusing the Venom:
    • Using the Alchemy Kit, carefully extract the venom from the glands. Be cautious, as the venom is potent and requires precise handling.
    • Apply the venom to the carved bone, allowing it to soak into the material. This process will take several hours as the bone absorbs the venom, imbuing it with toxic properties.
  • Binding with Enchanted Resin:
    • Apply the Enchanted Resin to the bow, focusing on areas that require additional reinforcement, such as the handle and the ends of the limbs.
    • Allow the resin to set and harden, binding the bone and venom together into a cohesive, durable structure.
  • Threading the Bowstring:
    • Thread the Spider Silk String through the bow’s limbs using the Threading Needle. Ensure that the string is taut and evenly tensioned, providing the necessary force for accurate and powerful shots.
  • Attaching the Leather Grip:
    • Wrap the Weathered Leather strip around the handle of the bow, securing it tightly. This grip will provide comfort and prevent slipping during use, especially in harsh or wet conditions.
  • Imbuing with Essence of Stealth:
    • On the Enchanter’s Anvil, apply the Essence of Stealth to the bow. Perform an incantation or ritual to bind the essence to the bow, enhancing its ability to blend into the surroundings.
    • The bow should now shimmer slightly, indicating the successful binding of the stealth properties.
  • Final Enchantment:
    • Place the nearly finished bow on the Enchanter’s Anvil once more. Focus your magical energy or use an enchantment ritual to bind all the components and magical properties together.
    • The final enchantment will ensure that the bow functions as a unified, magical weapon with its intended poison and stealth abilities.
  • Testing and Tuning:
    • Test the Chameleon Sting by firing a few arrows to ensure that the bow is balanced, the string is properly tensioned, and the venomous properties are activated upon impact.
    • Make any necessary adjustments to the string tension, handle grip, or magical properties to perfect the bow.
  • Completion:
    • Once satisfied with the bow’s performance, the Chameleon Sting is complete and ready for use. It should exhibit the ability to fire venom-infused arrows that can blend with the surroundings, making it a formidable weapon for any archer.

Result: The Chameleon Sting shortbow, a weapon of lethal precision and subtlety, is now ready to be wielded. This carefully crafted item will serve its owner well, providing both offensive power and strategic advantages in various combat scenarios.

Tale of the Chameleon Sting

In the days of yore, when the world was young and the mountains still whispered to the stars, there was once a mighty hunter whose name has been lost to the sands of time. This hunter was neither man nor beast but something of both, a creature born from the union of the wild earth and the gentle sky. They wandered the vast forests, silent as the breeze, unseen like the shadows, and it was said that no prey could escape their gaze.

One day, deep within the heart of a forest older than memory, the hunter came upon a chameleon of extraordinary size and age. This chameleon was not like others; its skin shifted with the colors of the world, and its eyes saw all that moved within the forest’s embrace. The hunter, who had bested all manner of beasts, marveled at the chameleon’s mastery of concealment and desired to possess such power.

The hunter stalked the chameleon for days, but each time they thought they had it cornered, the creature would vanish into the leaves and bark as though it were never there. Frustrated and near despair, the hunter finally caught the creature in a net woven from the finest spider silk, enchanted with the whispers of the wind.

As the hunter prepared to strike the final blow, the chameleon spoke in a voice that was both soft and ancient, like the rustling of autumn leaves. “O hunter, spare me, and I shall grant you a gift far greater than my life. I shall reveal to you the secret of my existence, a gift that will make you more feared and respected than any warrior who walks the earth.”

The hunter, intrigued and wary, stayed their hand. The chameleon continued, “Take my bones and craft from them a bow. Imbue it with the venom that flows within me, and you shall have a weapon that strikes not only with force but with the cunning of the wild. Your enemies will fall, not by the strength of your arm, but by the subtlety of the poison that lingers, unseen but deadly.”

The hunter, seeing the wisdom in the chameleon’s words, did as instructed. They took the bones and fashioned a bow, light as air but strong as the ancient trees. The chameleon’s venom was infused into the bow, creating a weapon unlike any other. The hunter became a legend, feared for the bow that could not be seen until it was too late.

But as the years passed, the hunter’s name was forgotten, and so too was the true nature of the bow. The weapon became known as the Chameleon Sting, a tool of silent death and unyielding patience. Those who sought it out were often lost in the pursuit, for the bow did not reveal itself to those who were unworthy, just as the chameleon had not shown itself to the hunter without cause.

Moral of the Story: True power lies not in brute force, but in patience and the ability to strike when least expected.

Suggested conversions to other systems:

Call of Cthulhu (7th Edition)

Chameleon Sting

• Type: Exotic Weapon (Shortbow)
• Damage: 1d6+1 (Piercing) + 1d4 Poison Damage (over 1d4 rounds)
• Range: 100 yards
• Malfunction: 00
• Special:
  • Poison Effect: On a successful hit, the target must make a CON roll (Hard difficulty). Failure results in the poisoned condition, suffering 1d4 poison damage each round for 1d4 rounds or until a successful CON roll is made (standard difficulty).
  • Camouflage: When not in use, the bow blends into its surroundings. The wielder gains a +20% bonus to Stealth checks while holding the bow in an environment where camouflage would be effective.
  • Sanity Cost: Using this item in an unnatural way (e.g., targeting a human) may trigger a SAN roll depending on the Keeper’s discretion.

Blades in the Dark

Chameleon Sting

• Type: Fine Ranged Weapon (Shortbow)
• Effect: 2 harm (Piercing), +1 harm (Poison, Lingering)
• Special:
  • Venomous: When you inflict harm with the Chameleon Sting, you also inflict the poisoned condition. The target takes an additional 1 harm from poison unless they receive immediate medical attention or make a successful Resistance roll.
  • Blending In: The bow can camouflage itself and its user when they remain still. Gain a position advantage (Controlled) when performing stealth actions in natural environments.
  • Load: 1 (Light)
  • Attune: The user can expend 1 stress to infuse their shot with the venom of the Chameleon Sting, making the poison effect unavoidable (no resistance allowed).

Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition)

Chameleon Sting

• Weapon Type: Shortbow, Martial Weapon
• Damage: 1d6 Piercing + 1d4 Poison Damage (if attuned)
• Range: 80/320 feet
• Properties: Light, Two-Handed, Special
• Special:
  • Attuned Passive: If the target is hit, they must succeed on a DC 14 Constitution saving throw or become poisoned. While poisoned in this way, they take 1d4 poison damage at the start of each of their turns until the condition is cured or combat ends.
  • Attuned Actionable: The wielder can choose to deal an additional 1d4 poison damage when firing the bow, whether or not the target fails their saving throw.
  • Camouflage: While the bow is in your possession, you have advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made to hide in natural environments.
  • Attunement: Requires attunement.

Knave

Chameleon Sting

• Type: Ranged Weapon (Shortbow)
• Damage: d6 Piercing
• Effect:
  • Venomous: On a hit, the target must make a CON save. If they fail, they suffer from poison, taking d4 damage at the start of each of their turns until they pass a CON save or the encounter ends.
  • Camouflage: The bow grants its wielder a +2 bonus to Stealth checks when attempting to hide in natural environments.
  • Usage Die: 1d4 (for poison; roll after each shot with poison effect, and on a 1, the venom is depleted until a long rest).

Fate Core

Chameleon Sting

• Aspect: “Venomous Shortbow of the Chameleon”
• Type: Weapon
• Damage: Weapon:2 (Standard damage modifier)
• Stunts:
  • Venomous Strike: Once per session, you can invoke the “Venomous Shortbow of the Chameleon” aspect to automatically succeed with style on an attack that inflicts the poisoned condition. The target takes 2 shifts of stress each round until they overcome the poison with a Physique check (difficulty +2).
  • Camouflaged: Gain a +2 to Stealth rolls when attempting to hide in natural environments, provided you remain still and are holding the Chameleon Sting.
  • Refresh Cost: 1 Fate Point (to invoke the venomous strike stunt)

Numenera & Cypher System

Chameleon Sting

• Level: 5
• Type: Light Weapon
• Damage: 2 points (Piercing) + 1 point Poison (lingering)
• Special:
  • Poison Effect: On a hit, the target must make a Might Defense roll against the weapon’s level (5). On a failure, the target suffers the poisoned condition, taking 1 point of damage at the start of each of their turns for 1d6 rounds.
  • Camouflage: When held, the bow grants an asset on tasks involving hiding or remaining unseen in natural environments, reducing the difficulty by one step.
  • Effort Cost: The wielder can spend 1 level of Effort to increase the Poison Effect by 1 additional point of damage or 1 additional round of duration.

Pathfinder (2nd Edition)

Chameleon Sting

• Weapon Type: Martial Weapon (Shortbow)
• Damage: 1d6 Piercing + 1d4 Poison Damage
• Range: 60 feet
• Special Properties:
  • Venomous Shot: On a successful hit, the target must make a DC 16 Fortitude save or be poisoned. The poison deals 1d4 poison damage at the start of each of the target’s turns until the poison is neutralized or the encounter ends.
  • Camouflage: The bow provides a +2 item bonus to Stealth checks when attempting to hide in natural terrains, particularly in forests or jungles.
  • Deadly d10: On a critical hit, the bow’s poison damage increases to 1d10.
• Traits: Poison, Magical, Deadly
• Cost: 650 gp
• Craft Requirements: Requires materials from a chameleon and a successful Crafting check (DC 20) to create.

Savage Worlds (Adventure Edition)

Chameleon Sting

• Type: Ranged Weapon (Shortbow)
• Damage: 2d6 (Piercing) + 1d4 (Poison)
• Range: 12/24/48
• Weight: 3 lbs
• Special Abilities:
  • Venomous Arrows: On a successful hit, the target must make a Vigor roll (at –2). On a failure, they are poisoned and take an additional 1d4 damage at the start of each of their turns for the next 3 rounds or until they succeed on a Vigor roll.
  • Chameleon Camouflage: Grants a +2 bonus to Stealth rolls when attempting to hide or move unseen in natural environments. This bonus applies as long as the character is stationary or moving slowly.
  • Notes: The Chameleon Sting is considered a magical weapon and can affect creatures normally immune to non-magical attacks.

Shadowrun (6th Edition)

Chameleon Sting

• Weapon Type: Exotic Ranged Weapon (Bow)
• Damage: 7P (Physical) + 3P (Poison)
• Accuracy: 5
• AP: -1
• Range: 0–30/31–60/61–150
• Special:
  • Venomous Arrows: Arrows fired from the Chameleon Sting have an integrated toxin delivery system. On a successful hit, the target must make a Body + Willpower test against a threshold of 3. On failure, they suffer 3P Poison damage over the next 3 Combat Turns. The poison ignores armor.
  • Chameleon Adaptation: When not firing, the bow can blend into its surroundings, giving the wielder a +2 dice pool bonus to Sneaking tests in natural environments.
  • Stealth Mode: The bow is equipped with a sound dampening system, reducing any noise made by the bow to an imperceptible level. This provides a +1 dice pool bonus to Stealth tests when firing.

Starfinder

Chameleon Sting

• Weapon Type: Analog Projectile Weapon (Advanced Bow)
• Level: 4
• Damage: 1d6 P + 1d4 Poison
• Range: 60 feet
• Critical: Poison (DC 16 Fortitude; target is staggered for 1 round)
• Capacity: 20 arrows
• Usage: 1 arrow/shot
• Special Properties:
  • Venomous Strike: On a successful hit, the target must make a DC 16 Fortitude save or suffer 1d4 Poison damage per round for 3 rounds.
  • Camouflage: While wielding the Chameleon Sting, the user gains a +2 bonus to Stealth checks in natural environments.
  • Untraceable: The bow leaves no traceable residue or evidence when fired, making it impossible to trace back to the shooter.
• Cost: 3,500 credits

Traveller (Mongoose 2nd Edition)

Chameleon Sting

• Weapon Type: Advanced Bow
• Tech Level: 10
• Range: 30 meters
• Damage: 2d6 (Piercing) + 1d4 (Poison)
• Mass: 1 kg
• Traits:
  • Venomous Arrows: Targets hit by the Chameleon Sting must make an Endurance check (8+) or take 1d4 Poison damage over the next 3 combat rounds. The poison is delivered through micro-barbs embedded in the arrow.
  • Camouflage: Grants the wielder a +2 DM (Die Modifier) to Stealth checks in wilderness environments, thanks to the bow’s adaptive camouflage.
  • Silent Operation: The bow is nearly silent when fired, imposing a –2 DM penalty on opponents’ Recon checks to locate the shooter.

Warhammer (Fantasy Roleplay, 4th Edition)

Chameleon Sting

• Weapon Type: Shortbow
• Damage: SB+2 (Piercing) + Poison (1d10 Wounds over 1d10 Rounds)
• Range: 24 yards
• Qualities:
  • Venomous: On a successful hit, the target must make a Toughness Test (Challenging, +0). On a failure, they suffer 1d10 Wounds over 1d10 rounds. This damage bypasses armor and reduces the target’s Toughness Bonus by 1 during this period.
  • Camouflage: The bow blends into its surroundings when not in use, granting a +10% bonus to Stealth tests in natural environments.
  • Silent: The Chameleon Sting is incredibly quiet when fired, making it difficult for enemies to detect the source of the shot. Enemies suffer a –20% penalty on Perception tests to locate the shooter.