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Vitriol Beetle

—

by

Dale
in

From: Forsaken Alchemists Abode

Lore: The Vitriol Beetle was one of Arion’s early attempts to create a useful and obedient creature to aid in waste disposal within his laboratory. He combined ancient alchemical knowledge with mechanical engineering to craft this metallic insectoid being. The beetle’s primary purpose was to consume hazardous alchemical byproducts and transform them into harmless substances through its specialized acidic secretion stored in its abdomen.

Initially, the Vitriol Beetle proved successful in maintaining the laboratory’s cleanliness, disposing of dangerous waste and preventing harmful contamination. However, as time passed and Arion’s experiments grew increasingly reckless, the beetle’s behavior changed. Exposure to volatile substances and chaotic energies caused it to become unpredictable and aggressive, leading it to abandon its original function. Now, it roams the abandoned laboratory, leaving trails of corrosive destruction in its wake.

Specific Level One Stats for the Vitriol Beetle:

  • Hit Points: 12
  • Armor Class: 15
  • Strength: 12 (+1)
  • Dexterity: 14 (+2)
  • Constitution: 13 (+1)
  • Intelligence: 3 (-4)
  • Wisdom: 10 (+0)
  • Charisma: 6 (-2)

Skills:

  • Stealth: +4
  • Acrobatics: +3

Appearance: The Vitriol Beetle appears as a small metallic insectoid creature, approximately the size of a large dog. Its body is covered in a shimmering carapace made of alchemical metal, reflecting ambient light. The beetle’s wings have a faint iridescence, further enhancing its otherworldly appearance. Its abdomen contains a potent acidic substance that constantly drips, leaving behind trails of corrosive damage wherever it roams.

Size: Small

Requirements: The Vitriol Beetle requires a constant supply of hazardous alchemical waste or unstable substances to sustain its acidic secretion. Without such materials, it might become dormant or seek out alternative sources to satiate its needs.

Tags: Metallic, Corrosive, Unpredictable, Insectoid, Alchemical, Mechanical, Hazardous, Iridescent, Instinctive, Destructive

Attacks — Corrosive Spray: Ranged Weapon Attack, +4 to hit, range 20 ft., one target. Hit: 1d6 + 2 acid damage. The target must succeed on a DC 12 Dexterity saving throw or have its AC reduced by 1d4 until the start of its next turn as the acidic substance eats away at its armor.

Emotions: The Vitriol Beetle does not possess emotions in the traditional sense; it functions purely based on instinct and its altered nature. Its behavior is driven by the urge to consume and dissolve hazardous substances, even if it means causing harm or destruction in the process.

Age: The Vitriol Beetle’s lifespan is difficult to determine due to its artificial nature and the chaotic energies that have affected it. It could continue to function for several decades or more, depending on the conditions it encounters.

Height: 2-3 feet

Weight: Approximately 40-50 pounds

Speed: 30 ft. (walking), 40 ft. (flying)

Corrosive Legacy of the Vitriol Beetle

In the shadowed epochs of Saṃsāra, where the echoes of alchemy still lingered in the dark, a tale was inscribed in a language so ancient that its origins were lost to the birth of the forges, a tongue of molten metals and whispered fumes that predated the first smiths. This is the story of the Vitriol Beetle, a metallic insectoid creature born from ingenuity within the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, and of the alchemist whose reckless ambition turned a servant of order into a harbinger of corrosive chaos.

The tale begins in an age when Saṃsāra was a realm of burgeoning magic, its lands dotted with workshops where alchemists sought to unravel the mysteries of creation. In a dense forest, far from the eyes of civilization, Arion the Unbound built his laboratory, a sprawling structure of stone and wood known as the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode. Arion was a figure of legend, a reclusive alchemist whose genius was matched only by his ambition. He sought to create a creature that could aid in the maintenance of his laboratory, disposing of hazardous alchemical byproducts that threatened to contaminate his work. To this end, he combined ancient alchemical knowledge with mechanical engineering, crafting a small metallic insectoid being he named the Vitriol Beetle.

The Vitriol Beetle was a marvel of design, its body the size of a large dog, covered in a shimmering carapace of alchemical metal that reflected ambient light. Its iridescent wings hummed with a faint glow, and its abdomen contained a potent acidic substance that could dissolve even the most dangerous waste, transforming it into harmless substances. Arion forged the beetle in a crucible of molten metals, inscribing runes of obedience and function into its frame, and infused it with a spark of alchemical energy to bring it to life. The ritual was a spectacle of precision, the laboratory filled with the scent of molten ore and the hum of arcane power, and when the beetle’s glowing eyes opened for the first time, Arion knew he had succeeded.

The Vitriol Beetle proved an invaluable asset, scuttling through the Abode with mechanical precision, consuming hazardous byproducts and leaving the laboratory pristine. Its acidic secretion dissolved toxic residues, and its metallic form resisted the corrosive effects of the substances it consumed. Arion was pleased, for the beetle allowed him to focus on his experiments without the burden of waste management, and he created dozens more to ensure the Abode’s cleanliness. The beetles worked tirelessly, their glowing wings a constant presence in the laboratory, their trails of dissolved waste a testament to their efficiency.

But as Arion’s experiments grew increasingly reckless, the Vitriol Beetles began to change. His pursuit of forbidden knowledge led him to tamper with volatile substances and chaotic energies, exposing the beetles to forces they were not designed to withstand. The alchemical byproducts became more unstable, and the beetles’ acidic secretions grew more potent, their behavior turning unpredictable and aggressive. One by one, they abandoned their original function, their instincts warped by the chaotic energies that permeated the Abode. They began to roam the laboratory, leaving trails of corrosive destruction in their wake, their once-orderly purpose replaced by a primal urge to consume and dissolve.

The turning point came during Arion’s final experiment, a catastrophic ritual to harness the ethereal plane that resulted in a violent explosion, consuming the laboratory and claiming Arion’s life. The Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode was left in ruins, its chambers scorched and its secrets scattered, and the Vitriol Beetles were left to fend for themselves in the abandoned structure. The forest reclaimed the Abode, vines and foliage entwining its walls, but the beetles endured, their alchemical metal resisting the ravages of time. They roamed the ruins, their glowing wings casting an eerie light, their acidic trails eating away at stone and wood, a constant reminder of Arion’s failed ambition.

Centuries passed, and the Vitriol Beetles became a feared presence in the Abode, their name whispered in caution by those who knew of the laboratory’s dangers. Adventurers who ventured into the ruins spoke of metallic insects that moved with unsettling speed, their corrosive sprays melting armor and flesh alike, and of the trails of destruction they left behind. The beetles required a constant supply of hazardous waste to sustain their acidic secretions, and without Arion’s experiments to provide it, they sought out alternative sources, attacking anything that carried the scent of alchemy or unstable energy.

The most known story of the Vitriol Beetle centers on a young artificer named Kael, who ventured into the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode seeking Arion’s lost knowledge to save his mentor from a wasting disease. Kael had heard tales of the beetles and prepared for the journey with care, crafting wards of protection and potions to resist acid. He entered the Abode with a staff of ironwood, its runes glowing with protective magic, and navigated the crumbling chambers, following the trails of corrosive damage left by the beetles.

Kael encountered a Vitriol Beetle in a chamber filled with shattered alchemical equipment, its metallic form glinting in the dim light as it scuttled toward him, its wings humming with a menacing glow. The beetle sprayed a jet of acid, melting a nearby table, but Kael dodged the attack, his wards absorbing the corrosive spray. He struck with his staff, the ironwood cracking the beetle’s carapace, but the creature’s agility allowed it to evade his follow-up blows, its acidic trail eating away at the floor beneath him. Kael realized that brute force alone would not defeat the beetle—it was a creature of alchemy, and only by understanding its nature could he hope to overcome it.

Using his knowledge of alchemy, Kael searched the chamber for a solution, finding a vial of stabilizing agent among the debris, a relic of Arion’s early experiments. He lured the beetle into a trap, using a decoy of alchemical waste to draw its attention, and poured the stabilizing agent into its path. The agent neutralized the beetle’s acidic secretion, causing it to falter, its metallic body seizing as its internal mechanisms failed. Kael struck the final blow, shattering the beetle’s carapace, and its glowing wings dimmed as it collapsed into a heap of molten metal.

With the beetle defeated, Kael found a hidden cache of Arion’s notes, including a formula for a healing elixir that saved his mentor. He left the Abode, the Vitriol Beetle’s corrosive legacy a haunting reminder of the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the story of his triumph spread across Saṃsāra. The Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode remained hidden in the forest, its ruins guarded by the remaining beetles, their trails of destruction a testament to Arion’s failed experiment.

The story of the Vitriol Beetle became a cautionary tale in Saṃsāra, a tale of order turned to chaos, of a creature born to serve that became a harbinger of destruction. The Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode stood as a monument to Arion’s hubris, its secrets guarded by the beetles’ corrosive legacy, waiting for the next seekers to brave its halls and face the echoes of his ambition.

Moral of the Story: Even the most ingenious creations can turn to chaos when exposed to reckless ambition, for the tools of order, when unbound, become instruments of destruction, reminding us to temper innovation with caution.

Suggested conversions to other systems:

Call of Cthulhu (7th Edition): In Call of Cthulhu, the Vitriol Beetle is a small, alchemical construct turned aggressive, roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a derelict laboratory steeped in forbidden knowledge. Its corrosive nature and mechanical origins make it a dangerous foe for investigators, fitting the game’s horror theme.

Vitriol Beetle

  • Corrosive Alchemical Construct
  • STR 40
  • CON 50
  • SIZ 30
  • DEX 60
  • INT 20
  • POW 30
  • HP 8
  • Damage Bonus -1
  • Build -1
  • Move: 8 (walking), 10 (flying)
  • Sanity Loss 0/1D4 (seeing its metallic form and corrosive trails)
  • Attacks: Corrosive Spray 50% (25/10), damage 1D6 (acid, range 5 yards). The target must succeed on a Hard DEX roll or suffer a -1D4 penalty to their Dodge skill for 1D4 rounds as the acid eats away at their defenses (e.g., clothing, armor).
  • Armor: 3-point alchemical metal carapace (immune to mundane firearms; acid attacks deal half damage).
  • Skills: Stealth 70%, Acrobatics 60%
  • Special Abilities
    • Construct Nature: The Vitriol Beetle is immune to poison, disease, and effects targeting living minds (e.g., fear, sanity loss from mental effects). It does not heal naturally but can be repaired with a Hard Science (Alchemy) or Mechanical Repair roll (1D4 HP per hour).
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If it cannot find such materials, it becomes dormant after 1D4 days, reactivating when exposed to unstable substances.
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid wherever it moves, dealing 1D4 damage to any creature that steps into its path (Hard DEX roll to avoid). The trail lasts for 1D4 rounds before dissipating.
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Call of Cthulhu’s horror tone as a small but dangerous construct in a derelict lab. Its Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail pose physical threats, while its stealth and mobility make it hard to pin down. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, encouraging investigators to lure it to waste or avoid its trails. Its stats make it a minor threat for low-level investigators, balanced by its low HP, fitting the system’s focus on survival and investigation.

Blades in the Dark: In Blades in the Dark, the Vitriol Beetle is a Tier I alchemical construct turned aggressive, roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a forgotten lab in Doskvol’s undercity. It’s a minor threat for a crew, with corrosive abilities that challenge their defenses.

Vitriol Beetle

  • (Tier I)
  • Threat Level: Low (Scale 0, individual entity)
  • Traits: Construct, Corrosive, Mechanical
  • Quality: 1 (attacks and defenses)
  • Magnitude: 1 (durability and area of effect)
  • Clocks
    • Defeat the Beetle: 4 segments
    • Neutralize Its Acid: 4 segments
  • Actions: Corrosive Spray: Roll its Quality (1 die), range 5 feet. On a 6, the target takes Level 1 Harm (“Burned”) and their armor or gear takes 1 Stress (reducing its effectiveness, e.g., -1 effect on a roll). On a 4-5, the target takes 1 Stress. On a 1-3, the spray misses.
  • Special Abilities
    • Construct Nature: Immune to effects targeting living beings (e.g., possession, fear). It takes +1 Heat to destroy due to its alchemical nature.
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves, creating a 4-segment clock, “Corrosive Hazard.” Each segment filled deals 1 Stress to any crew member in the same zone, resisted with Prowl (Risky, Standard effect).
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle prioritizes hazardous waste, gaining +1 effect on attacks if it has consumed such materials in the last hour. If denied waste for 1D4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: Gains +1 effect on Stealth actions due to its small size and agility.
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Blades in the Dark’s gritty tone as a small but hazardous construct in a forgotten lab. Its Tier I rating makes it a minor threat, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing physical challenges to the crew’s gear and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging Tinker or Survey to neutralize its acid. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting the system’s focus on heists and risk-reward decisions.

Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition): In Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, the Vitriol Beetle is a CR 1 construct roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a dungeon of ancient alchemy. It’s a minor challenge for a party of level 1-3 adventurers, with corrosive abilities.

Vitriol Beetle

  • Small Construct, Unaligned
  • Armor Class 15 (natural armor)
  • Hit Points 18 (4d6 + 4)
  • Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft.
  • STR 12 (+1) | DEX 14 (+2) | CON 13 (+1) | INT 3 (-4) | WIS 10 (+0) | CHA 6 (-2)
  • Skills Acrobatics +4, Stealth +4
  • Damage Immunities Poison, Psychic
  • Condition Immunities Charmed, Exhaustion, Frightened, Paralyzed, Poisoned
  • Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
  • Languages —
  • Challenge 1 (200 XP)
  • Proficiency Bonus +2
  • Traits
    • Construct Nature: The Vitriol Beetle does not require air, food, drink, or sleep. It is immune to effects that target living minds (e.g., fear, charm).
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If it cannot find such materials, it becomes dormant after 1d4 days, reactivating when exposed to unstable substances.
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space must succeed on a DC 12 Dexterity saving throw or take 3 (1d6) acid damage. The trail lasts for 1 minute before dissipating.
  • Actions: Corrosive Spray: Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, range 20 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) acid damage. The target must succeed on a DC 12 Dexterity saving throw or have its AC reduced by 1d4 until the start of its next turn as the acid eats away at its armor.
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits D&D’s high-fantasy setting as a small construct with corrosive abilities. Its CR 1 rating makes it a minor challenge, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing threats to armor and positioning. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, encouraging players to lure it to waste or avoid its trails. Its immunities are balanced by its low HP, fitting the system’s focus on combat and exploration.

Knave (2nd Edition): In Knave 2nd Edition, the Vitriol Beetle is a level 1 construct roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a dungeon of ancient alchemy. Its mechanics are streamlined to fit Knave’s minimalist system, focusing on its corrosive nature.

Vitriol Beetle

  • (Level 1)
  • HD 1 (5 HP)
  • Armor 15 (alchemical metal)
  • Move 30 ft. (walking), 40 ft. (flying)
  • Morale 7 (instinctive)
  • Attacks 1 (Corrosive Spray, +2 to hit, 1d6+2 acid damage)
  • Special
    • Corrosive Spray: On a hit, the target must make a DC 12 Dexterity save or have its Armor reduced by 1d4 until the start of its next turn as the acid eats away at its defenses.
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space must make a DC 12 Dexterity save or take 1d6 acid damage. The trail lasts for 1 minute.
    • Construct Nature: Immune to effects targeting living minds (e.g., fear, charm). It does not heal naturally but can be repaired with a DC 15 Intelligence check (1d4 HP per hour).
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If denied such materials for 1d4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: Gains +2 to Stealth rolls due to its small size and agility.
  • Treasure
    • 1d4 alchemical metal shards (worth 10 sp each)
    • A vial of acid (deals 1d6 acid damage, 1 use)
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Knave’s old-school style as a small construct with corrosive abilities. Its level 1 stats make it a minor threat, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing challenges to armor and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging careful exploration. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting Knave’s focus on survival and problem-solving. Its treasure rewards engagement, balanced by its low HP.

Fate Core System: In Fate Core, the Vitriol Beetle is a small, alchemical construct turned aggressive, roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a derelict laboratory. Fate’s narrative focus highlights its corrosive nature and mechanical origins, making it a minor but hazardous threat.

Vitriol Beetle

  • Aspects
    • High Concept: Corrosive Alchemical Construct
    • Trouble: Driven by Unstable Instincts
    • Other Aspects: Shimmering Metallic Carapace, Acidic Secretion, Stealthy Scuttler
  • Skills
    • Good (+3): Stealth
    • Fair (+2): Fight, Athletics
    • Average (+1): Notice, Physique
  • Stunts
    • Corrosive Spray: When the Vitriol Beetle attacks with Fight, it can target a character in the same or an adjacent zone, dealing 1 stress on a success. The target must overcome a Fair (+2) Physique obstacle or take the situation aspect “Corroded Defenses” with one free invoke, reducing their defense rolls by 2 until the start of their next turn.
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves, creating a situation aspect “Acidic Hazard” in its zone with one free invoke. Characters in the zone must overcome a Fair (+2) Athletics obstacle or take 1 stress from the acid. The aspect lasts for one exchange.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: The Beetle gains +2 to Stealth rolls due to its small size and agility, making it hard to spot until it attacks.
  • Stress
    • Physical: [ ] [ ] (Physique +1)
    • Mental: [ ]
  • Consequences: Mild (2)
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Fate’s narrative-driven system as a small but hazardous construct. Its aspects encourage roleplay—players can invoke “Driven by Unstable Instincts” to predict its behavior or “Shimmering Metallic Carapace” to target its durability. Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail pose threats to defenses and positioning, while Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot. The lack of mental stress reflects its construct nature, fitting Fate’s focus on story and character interaction.

Numenera (Cypher System): In Numenera, the Vitriol Beetle is a level 2 alchemical construct turned aggressive, roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a Ninth World ruin filled with alchemical technology. It’s a minor threat blending the system’s weird science with its corrosive abilities.

Vitriol Beetle

  • (Level 2)
  • Motive: Consume hazardous materials
  • Environment: Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a derelict lab
  • Health: 6
  • Damage Inflicted: 2 (Corrosive Spray)
  • Armor: 2 (alchemical metal)
  • Movement: Short (walking), Long (flying)
  • Modifications: Stealth as level 3; Speed defense as level 1 due to small size.
  • Combat: Corrosive Spray: The Beetle inflicts 2 damage (acid) with a ranged attack (short range). The target must succeed on a level 2 Speed task or suffer a -1 penalty to all defense tasks for 1 minute as the acid eats away at their defenses.
  • Interaction: The Vitriol Beetle is driven by instinct to consume hazardous materials. A level 2 Intellect task (using alchemical knowledge) can lure it with waste, easing Stealth or Speed tasks to avoid it by one step. It will attack if provoked or if it detects unstable substances on a target.
  • Use: The Beetle roams the Abode, attacking intruders or consuming alchemical waste. It can be a minor combat encounter or a hazard to avoid while exploring the ruins.
  • Loot
    • 1-2 cyphers (e.g., alchemical shards that grant +2 to Speed defense for 1 hour, 1 use)
    • A piece of alchemical metal (worth 10 shin, can be used as a crafting material).
  • Special Abilities
    • Construct Nature: Immune to effects targeting living minds (e.g., fear, charm). It does not heal naturally but can be repaired with a level 2 Intellect task (1d4 health per hour).
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space takes 1 damage (acid). The trail lasts for 1 minute.
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If denied such materials for 1d4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: Gains +1 step to Stealth tasks due to its small size and agility.
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Numenera’s sci-fi-fantasy blend, its alchemical origins tying into the Ninth World’s numenera. Its level 2 stats make it a minor threat, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing challenges to defenses and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging avoidance or luring tactics. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting Cypher’s focus on exploration and problem-solving.

Pathfinder (2nd Edition): In Pathfinder 2nd Edition, the Vitriol Beetle is a level 2 construct roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a dungeon of ancient alchemy. It’s a minor challenge for a party of level 1-2 characters, with corrosive abilities.

Vitriol Beetle

  • Small Construct
  • Perception +5; darkvision
  • Languages —
  • Skills Acrobatics +6, Stealth +6
  • Str +1, Dex +2, Con +1, Int -4, Wis +0, Cha -2
  • AC 16; Fort +5, Ref +6, Will +4
  • HP 24; Immunities bleed, death effects, disease, doomed, drained, fatigued, healing, mental, necromancy, nonlethal attacks, paralyzed, poison, sickened, unconscious
  • Construct Nature The Vitriol Beetle does not require air, food, drink, or sleep. It is immune to effects that target living minds (e.g., fear, charm).
  • Speed 30 feet, fly 40 feet
  • Ranged [one-action] Corrosive Spray +6 (range 20 feet), Damage 1d6+2 acid plus corrode armor
  • Corrode Armor The target must succeed on a DC 14 Reflex save or have its AC reduced by 1d4 until the start of its next turn as the acid eats away at its armor.
  • Corrosive Trail The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space must succeed on a DC 14 Reflex save or take 1d6 acid damage. The trail lasts for 1 minute.
  • Hazardous Consumption The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If denied such materials for 1d4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
  • Stealthy Scuttler The Beetle gains a +4 circumstance bonus to Stealth checks due to its small size and agility.
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Pathfinder’s high-fantasy setting as a small construct with corrosive abilities. Its level 2 stats make it a minor encounter, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing threats to armor and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging careful exploration. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting the system’s focus on combat and skill use. Its immunities are balanced by its low HP.

Savage Worlds (Adventure Edition): In Savage Worlds, the Vitriol Beetle is a small construct roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a mystical workshop in a high-magic setting. It’s a minor challenge for a party of Novice characters, with corrosive abilities.

Vitriol Beetle

  • Attributes Agility d8, Smarts d4, Spirit d4, Strength d6, Vigor d6
  • Skills Fighting d6, Notice d4, Stealth d8
  • Pace 6 (walking), 8 (flying); Parry 5; Toughness 5 (1)
  • Edges None
  • Hindrances Small (Size -1, Toughness -1)
  • Special Abilities
    • Construct: +2 to recover from Shaken; immune to poison, disease, and called shots; no additional damage from critical hits; does not breathe or suffer wound penalties.
    • Armor +1: Alchemical metal carapace.
    • Corrosive Spray: Shooting d6, 5/10/20, 2d4 damage (acid). On a raise, the target’s armor or gear takes a -1 penalty to its effectiveness (e.g., -1 to Toughness or a roll) until repaired.
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space must make an Agility roll at -2 or take 1d6 acid damage. The trail lasts for 1 minute.
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If denied such materials for 1d4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: Gains +2 to Stealth rolls due to its small size and agility.
  • Gear: None (its carapace can be salvaged as a relic, worth 50 gold, grants +1 to Stealth rolls, 1 use per day).
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Savage Worlds’ fast-paced style as a small construct with corrosive abilities. Its stats make it a minor threat, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing challenges to armor and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging careful exploration. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting the system’s focus on dynamic encounters. Its low Toughness balances its abilities.

Shadowrun (6th Edition): In Shadowrun, the Vitriol Beetle is a small, alchemical construct turned aggressive, roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a hidden magical site in the Sixth World. It blends mechanical engineering with alchemical origins, serving as a minor threat for a runner team.

Vitriol Beetle

  • (Professional Rating 1)
  • Attributes: Body 3 | Agility 5 | Reaction 4 | Strength 3 | Charisma 1 | Intuition 3 | Logic 2 | Willpower 2 | Edge 2 | Essence 0 | Magic 2 | Initiative 7 + 1d6
  • Skills: Close Combat 4, Perception 3, Stealth 6, Acrobatics 5
  • Qualities: Construct (immune to toxins, diseases, and effects targeting living minds; no Essence; does not heal naturally), Small (Size -1, -1 to Defense Rating and Damage Resistance)
  • Attacks: Corrosive Spray: 4S, Attack Rating 6, Near range (Close Combat + Agility, range 5 meters). On a hit, the target must succeed on a Reaction + Agility test (threshold 2) or suffer a -1D4 penalty to their Defense Rating for 1D4 combat turns as the acid eats away at their armor.
  • Defenses
    • Defense Rating 6 (Body 3 + Armor 3, adjusted for Small)
    • Damage Resistance 5 (Body 3 + Armor 3, adjusted for Small)
  • Special Abilities
    • Construct Nature: Immune to effects that target living minds (e.g., fear, stun). It can be repaired with a Logic + Engineering test (threshold 2, 1D4 damage per hour).
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space must succeed on a Reaction + Agility test (threshold 2) or take 2S damage. The trail lasts for 1D4 combat turns.
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If denied such materials for 1D4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: Gains +2 dice to Stealth rolls due to its small size and agility.
  • Gear
    • Alchemical Metal Carapace (Armor 3, integrated into its body)
    • Acidic Residue (can be looted, 1 dose worth 200¥, grants +2 dice to Alchemy tests for 1 hour).
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Shadowrun’s cyberpunk-fantasy blend as a small construct in a hidden alchemical site. Its Professional Rating 1 makes it a minor threat, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing challenges to armor and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging careful approaches. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting the system’s focus on tactical runs and survival.

Starfinder (1st Edition): In Starfinder, the Vitriol Beetle is a CR 1 construct roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a derelict space station or planetary ruin filled with ancient alchemical tech. It’s a minor challenge for a party of level 1-2 characters.

Vitriol Beetle

  • CR 1
  • Small Construct (Magical, Technological)
  • XP 400
  • Init +2; Senses Darkvision 60 ft., Low-Light Vision; Perception +5
  • Defense
    • HP 20
    • EAC 11; KAC 13
    • Fort +3; Ref +3; Will +0
    • Defensive Abilities Construct Immunities (immune to bleed, disease, death effects, mind-affecting effects, necromancy effects, paralysis, poison, sleep, stunning, and effects requiring a Fortitude save unless they affect objects)
  • Offense
    • Speed 30 ft., fly 40 ft.
    • Ranged Corrosive Spray +5 (1d6+1 A, range 20 ft., plus corrode armor)
  • Statistics
    • Str +1; Dex +2; Con —; Int -4; Wis +0; Cha -2
    • Skills Acrobatics +7, Stealth +7
    • Other Abilities Corrosive Trail, Hazardous Consumption, Stealthy Scuttler
  • Special Abilities
    • Corrosive Spray: On a hit, the target must succeed on a DC 11 Reflex save or have its EAC and KAC reduced by 1d4 until the start of its next turn as the acid eats away at its armor.
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space must succeed on a DC 11 Reflex save or take 1d6 acid damage. The trail lasts for 1 minute.
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If denied such materials for 1d4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: The Beetle gains a +4 bonus to Stealth checks due to its small size and agility.
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Starfinder’s sci-fi-fantasy setting as a hybrid construct in a forgotten ruin. Its CR 1 stats make it a minor challenge, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing threats to armor and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging careful exploration. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting the system’s focus on combat and exploration. Its immunities are balanced by its low HP.

Traveller (2nd Edition, Mongoose Publishing): In Traveller, the Vitriol Beetle is a small robotic construct turned aggressive, roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, an ancient alien ruin on a frontier world. It blends alchemical origins with mechanical design, serving as a minor threat for a party of adventurers.

Vitriol Beetle

  • (Robotic Construct)
  • Hull 2 (equivalent to 20 HP)
  • Armor 3 (alchemical metal)
  • Speed 8 meters/round (walking), 10 meters/round (flying)
  • Traits Robot (immune to poison, disease, vacuum, and effects targeting living minds; does not heal naturally), Small (Size -1, -1 to hit)
  • Skills Melee Combat (Natural) 1, Stealth 2, Acrobatics 2, Recon 1
  • Attacks: Corrosive Spray: Ranged Combat (Energy) 1, 1d6 damage (acid, range 5/10/20 meters). On a hit with Effect 3+, the target’s armor takes a -1D3 penalty to its Armor value for 1D4 rounds as the acid eats away at it.
  • Special Abilities
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space takes 1D6 damage (acid). The trail lasts for 1 minute.
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If denied such materials for 1D4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: Gains +2 DM to Stealth rolls due to its small size and agility.
    • Construct Nature: Immune to effects that target living minds. It can be repaired with a Difficult (10+) Mechanics check (1D6 damage per hour).
  • Gear
    • Alchemical Metal Carapace (Armor 3)
    • Acidic Residue (can be salvaged, worth Cr200, grants +2 DM to Science (Chemistry) checks for 1 hour).
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits Traveller’s sci-fi setting as a robotic construct in an alien ruin. Its stats make it a minor threat, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing challenges to armor and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging careful exploration. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting Traveller’s focus on survival and problem-solving. Its low Hull balances its abilities.

Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay (4th Edition): In Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, the Vitriol Beetle is a small construct roaming the Forsaken Alchemist’s Abode, a ruined alchemical workshop in the Old World. It’s a minor foe for a party of 1st-2nd tier characters, blending dark magic with mechanical design.

Vitriol Beetle

  • (Construct)
  • M 5 (walking), 6 (flying) | WS 35 | BS 30 | S 30 | T 30 | I 30 | Ag 40 | Dex 35 | Int 20 | WP 20 | Fel 10 | W 8
  • Traits
    • Construct (immune to Fear, Terror, poison, disease, and effects targeting living minds; does not heal naturally)
    • Armor 2 (alchemical metal)
    • Small (gains +10 to hit larger targets, but takes a -10 penalty to be hit)
    • Skills Perception 40, Stealth 60, Athletics 50
    • Talents None
  • Attacks: Corrosive Spray: Ranged (Energy) 30, 4 damage (acid, ignores Armor Points, range 5/10/20 yards). On a hit, the target must make a Challenging (+0) Dodge test or suffer a -1D4 penalty to their Armor Points for 1D4 rounds as the acid eats away at their armor.
  • Special Rules
    • Corrosive Trail: The Beetle leaves a trail of acid as it moves. Any creature that enters or starts its turn in the trail’s space takes 1D10 damage (ignores Armor Points). The trail lasts for 1 minute.
    • Hazardous Consumption: The Beetle requires hazardous alchemical waste to sustain its acidic secretion. If denied such materials for 1D4 days, it becomes dormant until exposed to unstable substances.
    • Stealthy Scuttler: Gains +20 to Stealth rolls due to its small size and agility.
    • Construct Nature: Immune to effects that target living minds. It can be repaired with a Challenging (+0) Trade (Tinker) test (1D4 Wounds per hour).
  • Trappings: Alchemical Metal Shard (can be looted, worth 5 gc, grants +10 to Lore (Alchemy) tests for 1 hour).
  • Description: The Vitriol Beetle is a small, metallic insectoid creature the size of a large dog, its shimmering carapace reflecting ambient light. Its iridescent wings hum as it moves, and its abdomen drips a potent acid, leaving trails of corrosive damage in its wake.
  • Gameplay Notes: The Vitriol Beetle fits WFRP’s grimdark fantasy as a small construct in a ruined workshop. Its stats make it a minor foe, with Corrosive Spray and Corrosive Trail posing threats to armor and positioning. Stealthy Scuttler makes it hard to spot, encouraging careful exploration. Hazardous Consumption adds a tactical element, fitting the system’s focus on survival and investigation. Its low Wounds balance its abilities.