A large, black spider-like creature with treebark-like textured hide. Big enough to take down even a large battle steed. Prefers to pin its victim down and then fang it to inject paralytic, dissolving poison fluid. But if it is threatened or confronted with superior numbers, it can vent its poison into an aerosol form that it is immune to. This airborne attack causes organic material to melt, including plant life and flesh. But this leaves it unable to use poison further for at least a day while it refills its poison bladders. Then it can only defend itself in close and is likely to run away, especially up into a large tree and get itself to a sheltered position that is dangerous to reach. Is good at jumping from tree to tree if it needs to, although it tires quickly, maybe can jump 2-3 treetops. Instinct: To feed on the hapless and distracted

• Eat unwary travelers by the roadside.