Knowledge (Nature)

Moderate DC: The beetle, once a rarity in isolated underground caverns, has become more common over the past two decades. Called minotaur beetles by some, they are seen as a growing threat by those tending underground crypts or other repositories of dead since they have a voracious appetite for decaying flesh and preserved remains. The gemstones were added later -- these beetles do not have them normally.

Hard DC: A method that could have been used to keep the entire beetle from decaying over time might involve a mixture of fungus spores from the vividly multihued bioluminescent altherium mushroom and the ale-diluted sap of a mature saprophytic vine called whiteglow vine (its unoriginal name comes from both its white hue and the faint white light that pulsates from it). This method can give the preserved item an apple scent. (DMs are welcome to assign this method to a specific race or grouping of beings.)

Price: 5,000 gp

Possible Placement: Revenge of the Giants, page 69 -- replace 5,000 gp worth of the gems with this item.

Price: 1,000 gp

Possible Placement: Revenge of the Giants, page 69 -- replace 1,000 gp worth of the gems with this item.

Price: 3,000 gp

Possible Placement: Revenge of the Giants, page 33 -- replace the three gems with this item.

Price: 1,500 gp

Price: 1,400 gp