Overview
The Shrine of Ubtao is a defensive checkpoint built into the ancient bridge structure at Ataaz Kahakla (Bridge Gap). The shrine consists of an imposing stone statue depicting a Chultan warrior in a war mask, crouched in a panther-ready stance with decorative gems in its eye sockets.
Guardian Mechanism
The statue is actually a stone golem that activates to defend the bridge under specific circumstances:
- Desecration of the shrine (including attempting to remove the worthless decorative eye gems)
- Damage to the bridge structure
- Passing without performing proper obeisance to Ubtao
Required Ritual
Travelers must honor Ubtao by tracing a fingertip through one of the mazelike carvings on the bridge, following an unbroken path past the statue. Native Chultan guides know this requirement.
Performing the Ritual:
- The maze must be cleared of lichens and moss with a tool (knife, etc.)
- If cleaned first: DC 5 Intelligence check to trace correctly
- If not cleaned: DC 10 Intelligence check
- Critical: Scraping with bare hands triggers the golem’s attack
- Must be traced with a finger—using a dagger or tool does not count
Combat Tactics
If activated, the golem employs the following strategies:
- Attempts to push enemies off the bridge in combat
- Has advantage on Strength (Athletics) checks to resist being pushed due to its immense weight
- Does not pursue fleeing enemies off the bridge unless they continue attacking with ranged weapons or spells
Evidence of Danger
A human skeleton lies crumpled near the statue’s feet with broken bones—the remains of an explorer killed by the golem and subsequently picked clean by scavengers. This serves as a warning of the shrine’s deadly nature.