Creature Reveal: Dullahan
Mythos:
When explorers began charting the remote gas giant planet, Honos 521, there were many reports of ”ghost” sightings and hauntings. These sightings led to a scientific expedition to the planet seeking the truth behind these strange occurrences. Surprising the universe, the “ghosts” were not figments of isolated space farers imaginations. The expedition discovered a new lifeform whose body was made up of gasses, giving them an ethereal appearance that resembled ghosts from ancient earth superstitions. Naturally, Biomancers put these ghosts' combat potential to the test and were left... disappointed. While their bodies could change shape at will, they were too fragile. They could coalesce and solidify small portions of their bodies to become almost solid, but this ability was limited. Biomancers lost interest and for centuries the ghosts were left, nearly forgotten. That is Until the renowned Biomancer craftsman, Vulcan, inspired by old folktales of enchanted suits of armor that could move on their own, fashioned a protective suit of armor for ghosts to use in combat and the Dullahan was born.
Dullahan's armor looks antiquated outwardly but is quite an advanced piece of technology that enhances Dullahan’s ability to solidify. Now large portions of Dullahan's body can form into solid weapons to be used in combat. Swords, Lances, Maces, Bows, the possibilities are almost limitless. Weapon versatility and a flashy combat style propelled Dullahan's mass adoption and use in the ring.
The Dullahan, after being feared as a ghost for so long now embodies the chivalrous knight archetype represented by its armor. Dullahans are dependable and valiant. Often when dueling, a Dullahan will spare its opponent the dishonor of a knock out. The classical Knight has found a spiritual successor in the Galactic Battle Federations arena.
Stats:
Dullahans are intelligence-focused light tanks. Their primary focus on defense is rivaled by a focus on intelligence. Most of their attacks’ damage scale with intelligence. The ability to shape and form weapons and the damage these weapons create is dependent on mental concentration and will.
Abilities:
A Dullahan's weapon manifesting ability gives a trainer the versatility to attack close, medium, or long-range as the situation demands. Dullahan can quickly change from sword to lance, hammer, or bow to capitalize on any opening. Dullahan is one of a few creatures that can use counter moves. Counters allow reactions to opponent actions in the execution phase. While sometimes this can backfire, a well-timed parry will block a foe's incoming attack and set up a free direct hit counter.
The versatility of ability and weapon choice ensures defeat for any Biomancer who underestimates Dullahan.
Traits:
Dullahan has traits that add durability in a fight, however be mindful of the trait Fragile. The ethereal nature of this creature makes training a little more dangerous. The difficulty in training earns Biomancers the perfect splicing creature if you are looking to beef up the defensive shortcomings of another breed.
Iron Body - Increased physical and fire resistance, but decreased electrical resistance.
Fragile - Increased chance of injury during training
Chivalrous - Knocking out opponents reduces motivation and winning by judgment has increased motivation.
Heavyweight - Move resistance increased by 1
Gallant - Increased Fame gains after a victory
Defender - Brace Action’s focus cost is reduced by 5.
Resolute - Gain the Resolute status effect during combat. Resolute: Gain 10 focus after being hit by a critical attack.
Sturdy - Increased defense gains during training.
How to Obtain:
Available to all Biomancers as soon as they obtain their license. Dullahan is a good beginner-intermediate level creature to raise, especially if someone was looking to boost their fame and reputation quickly.