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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Faolyn" data-source="post: 8735983" data-attributes="member: 6915329">So fun fact, the word torpedo originated in the 16th century and refers to a state of inertia, or to be paralyzed (I did not know this, although it makes sense, what with the word torpor). It was first used to name the following creature: the electric ray, also known as the crampfish or torpedo ray, which make up the Torpediniformes order. It’s a ray that shoots electricity. Depending on the species, between 8 and 220 volts. 30 volts is dangerous to humans.The reason I mention this is because the creator of this article mentioned that electric rays are known as torpedo rays “on some planes of the multiverse,” which suggests that maybe they thought it was named after the weapon. So just in case you’re wondering, you can probably get away with using the word torpedo in your game without having to worry too much about anachronisms.Real-life folklore decided that these rays were magical (since they could numb fishermen without touching them), but this particular monster is pretty mundane. The article lists them as being non-intelligent, but I’ve read that rays are actually really smart and may be self-aware (they pass the mirror test).Electric RayThe Dragon’s Bestiary, Dragon Magazine #116Created by Gregg ChamberlainElectric rays, also called crampfish and torpedo rays. They have rounded fins, and most species have brownish hides that are dotted, splotched, or ringed with other colors, although a few are blue, green, or gray. They spend much of their time buried under the sand on the ocean’s bed, only rising to stun their prey with an electric shock.Electric RayMedium beastChallenge 1/4 (50 XP)AC 11HP 11 (2d8+2)Speed 0 ft., swim 30 ft.STR 10 (+0) DEX 12 (+1) CON 12 (+1)INT 3 (-4) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 6 (-2)Proficiency +2Maneuver DC 11Skills Perception +3, Stealth +3Senses tremorsense 30 ft., passive Perception 13Languages —ActionsElectric Shock. The ray emits electricity in a 10-foot radius. Each creature in that area must make a DC 11 Constitution saving throw, taking 5 (2d4) lightning damage on a failed save, or half as much on a successful one. A creature that fails its save is also stunned until the end of its next turn.CombatElectric rays attack from hiding, often without even emerging from the sand. They flee if injured.</blockquote>

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