Tidal Blades
Liongulls, also known as the "Princes of Feathers," are impressively large, aggressive seabirds.
They are one of the most dangerous flying creatures in Naviri, and their nests can be found most everywhere on the highest cliffs.
This bird of prey can dive to a spectacular depth to catch sea creatures. They are very territorial and likely to attack other predators that are depleting their fish stocks. They are also one of the few creatures that actively hunts and devours flying slugs and other poisonous beasts. It's believed that high acid levels in their stomachs help the birds digest their prey whole.
There are many Trawler tales about hunting crews being swallowed alive by liongulls. For that reason, superstitious fishers will often leave part of their catch in a floating basket as an offering for the liongulls to feast on.
Motive: Hunger for sea creatures, defense
Environment: Cliffsides, particularly near the Broken Ridge and Eon Pinnacles
Health: 15
Damage Inflicted: Moderate wound (7 points)
Movement: Long when flying
Modifications: Attacks and Speed defense as level 6 due to quickness and flight; perception as level 7
Combat: Liongulls attack from the sky, swooping down on their prey in a fast, straight dive that is difficult to avoid. Unlike most birds, they have a beak full of sharp, tearing teeth, and do 7 points of damage with a single ripping bite.
If prey is smaller than the liongull, the bird also attempts to swallow it whole. Victims must make a Might-based roll to avoid being swallowed. Swallowed characters can attack the beast from the inside, but they suffer 5 points of damage each round they remain wholly or partly ingested.
Liongulls also intimidate nearby prey by spreading the large "mane" of feathers around their heads, making themselves look even larger than normal. Intimidated victims who fail an Intellect defense roll are unable to take actions, other than defense or escape, for one round.
Interaction: Liongulls can't be reasoned with, and respond poorly to threats and intimidation. They can be tricked, but typically only if there is food involved.
Use: Someone is paying a great deal for liongull eggs or young, and the characters are willing to face the obvious dangers in pursuit of that reward.
Loot: Liongulls vomit up pellets that are stuffed with everything the bird couldn't digest, from very large bones and stones to equipment, cyphers, and a shell or two.
GM Intrusion: The liongull plucks a flying slug off a nearby cliff and drops it on the victim. The liongull swallows an important weapon, artifact, or other piece of equipment whole.