Path of Exile 2 immerses players in another epic journey across the perilous lands of Wraeclast, teeming with deadly monsters and haunting abominations. While progressing through the main campaign, you'll encounter numerous side quests and optional objectives scattered across the world. These quests not only enrich the lore but also provide valuable rewards to enhance your character's power permanently.

One notable side quest in Act 3 is The Slithering Dead. This quest delves into the poisonous horrors of Wraeclast and rewards you with a permanent character buff. In this walkthrough, we'll guide you through how to start and complete The Slithering Dead quest and help you decide which of the three rewards best suits your build.

How to Start The Slithering Dead Quest

The Slithering Dead quest begins automatically when you first enter the Jungle Ruins in Act 3. This dense, dangerous area introduces you to a new challenge: the Azakh-Kul poison, which plagues the land and its inhabitants. Your goal is to uncover the source of this poison and stop its spread.

Step 1: Explore the Jungle Ruins

Once you're in the Jungle Ruins, explore the area thoroughly until you find the entrance to the Venom Crypts, a dark, sprawling dungeon that holds the source of the poison. Conveniently, the entrance to the Venom Crypts is located near a Waypoint, making it easier to travel back if needed.

Navigating the Venom Crypts

The Venom Crypts is a labyrinthine area filled with poisonous enemies, traps, and hazards. Be prepared for an extended exploration, as finding the objective may take some time.

Step 2: Find the Corpse-Snake Venom

Inside the Venom Crypts, your objective is to locate a Corpse lying on the ground in an open room. This corpse contains the Corpse-Snake Venom, an essential item to complete the quest. The room is located shortly after a Checkpoint, so keep an eye out as you progress.

Poison enemies in this area deal heavy Chaos Damage, which can quickly deplete your health if you're unprepared. Investing in Chaos Resistance and antidote flasks is essential for survival.

Tip: Use POE 2 Currency to Prepare

The poisonous enemies in the Venom Crypts can be challenging without proper resistance or flasks. This is where Path of Exile 2 Currency becomes invaluable:

    Chaos Orbs and Orbs of Alchemy: Use these to craft or upgrade gear with Chaos Resistance modifiers, significantly reducing poison damage.

    Glassblower's Baubles: Upgrade your flasks to improve their quality and increase their effectiveness.

    Orb of Alteration: Craft flasks with poison immunity, which will allow you to cleanse poison effects when needed.

Efficient use of currency ensures you're equipped to survive the venomous onslaught.

Completing the Quest

After obtaining the Corpse-Snake Venom from the corpse in the Venom Crypts, your next step is to return to Servi in the Ziggurat Encampment. Hand over the item to complete the quest and receive your choice of three permanent buffs as a reward.

The Slithering Dead Quest Rewards

Upon completing The Slithering Dead, you'll choose one of three Venom Draughts. These consumable items grant a permanent buff to your character, meaning your choice will have lasting implications on your build. Here are the options:

1. Venom Draught of Stone

    Grants 25% increased Stun Threshold.

    Best suited for tanky melee builds or characters who often find themselves in close combat. The increased Stun Threshold reduces the likelihood of being stunned by enemies.

2. Venom Draught of the Veil

    Grants 30% increased Elemental Ailment Threshold.

    A great choice for general survivability, especially for builds vulnerable to elemental ailments such as Chill, Shock, Ignite, or Freeze. These ailments are prevalent throughout the game, so this draught has wide utility.

3. Venom Draught of Clarity

    Grants 25% increased Mana Regeneration Rate.

    Ideal for Mana-intensive builds, such as casters or support characters that frequently use abilities. If your build relies heavily on Mana sustain, this is the best pick.

How to Choose the Best Reward for Your Build

The choice between these buffs depends entirely on your character's needs and playstyle:

    For melee builds or tanky characters, Venom Draught of Stone is the go-to.

    For casters or Mana-hungry builds, pick Venom Draught of Clarity.

    For general defense and ailment resistance, Venom Draught of the Veil offers significant protection against debilitating effects.

If you're unsure, consider your biggest challenge in the current act and select the reward that will mitigate that weakness.

Conclusion

The Slithering Dead is a rewarding side quest that combines exploration, danger, and character progression. By finding the Corpse-Snake Venom and completing the quest, you'll gain a permanent buff that enhances your character's performance.

To maximize your chances of success, prepare thoroughly by upgrading your gear, flasks, and resistances with the help of POE 2 Currency, MMOexp provide the best POE 2 RMT(real money trade) service. Whether it's crafting Chaos-resistant items or trading for better gear, proper currency management is a game-changer in Path of Exile 2.

Choose your reward wisely and continue your journey across Wraeclast, stronger and better equipped for the horrors ahead. Good luck, Exile!

MMOexp POE 2 Team