Mist-Turtle

Mist-Turtle
The Mist-Turtle is a large, slow-moving reptile that inhabits the submerged root-labyrinth of The Shrouded Boughs. These turtles are easily identified by their thick, craggy shells that are covered in a layer of glowing moss and barnacles. They possess a unique biological ability to generate their own localized fog, which they use to hide from predators or to surprise their prey.
Mist-Turtles are generally docile and are often used by the Mist-Whiskers as living "tugs" to help haul heavy cargo through the root-maze. They are long-lived creatures, with some individuals believed to be over two hundred years old. Their shells are highly prized for their durability and are sometimes used to create specialized armor.
Secret Motivation: The turtles are the primary cleaners of the root-system. They feed on the decaying matter and aether-leeches that gather on the mangrove roots, helping to maintain the health of the Mother-Tree.
Adventure Hook: An ancient and unusually large Mist-Turtle, known as Old Moss, has become stuck in a narrow root-passage near Drift-Haven. His localized fog is causing massive navigational issues for the town’s sailors. Captain Squeak hires the party to find a way to free the turtle without harming it.