Arrows, Swarming

This ammunition hides a nasty surprise. On a successful hit, a compartment on the arrow bursts open to release dozens of swarming insects. The target creature must make a DC 15 Dexterity saving throw. On a failed save, the target takes 2d4 additional piercing damage and can't take a reaction until the end of its next turn, as it swats at the insects biting them. On a successful save, the target takes half the additional damage and suffers no other effects. These effects last until the end of the target's next turn, at which point the insects leave to find easier prey.

This ammunition is rare, and is typically crafted 1d4 pieces at a time to maintain the liveliness of its payload, who feed on strips of meat left inside the compartment. The ammunition remains "live" for approximately 7 days before losing effectiveness, at which point the insects begin to die off and the arrows become standard, mundane arrows.