Dogmen

The Dogmen evolved on the Plane of Cynics through countless generations of betrayal and broken promises, their species developing an almost supernatural ability to perceive deception in all its forms. Once a more trusting race, they learned bitter lessons when their initial openness was exploited by entities that sought to manipulate their pack-oriented nature for selfish gain, transforming their entire civilization into one built on skepticism and guarded distance. Their cynicism is not cruelty but rather a hard-won survival mechanism—a philosophical armor forged in the fires of repeated disappointment that allows them to navigate a plane where naivety is a death sentence. Yet paradoxically, this very experience of betrayal created in them an understanding of loyalty's true value, for they recognize that trust earned through scrutiny and skepticism is worth infinitely more than trust given freely. When a Dogman finally allows another being to breach their defensive walls, that bond becomes unbreakable, a covenant sealed by the weight of their doubts overcome. They neither champion good nor embrace evil, instead viewing all beings through the lens of pragmatic self-interest and earned credibility. The Dogmen stand as living monuments to the principle that wisdom often comes from knowing when to trust and when to doubt, making them invaluable allies to those patient enough to prove their worth.

Strength

14, modifier +2

Dexterity

16, modifier +3

Constitution

16, modifier +3

Intelligence

12, modifier +1

Wisdom

18, modifier +4

Charisma

10, modifier +0

Bite

Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1d8 + 2 piercing damage.

Cynical Gaze

As a bonus action, choose one creature within 30 ft. They must succeed on a DC 15 Wisdom saving throw or be frightened until the end of their next turn.

Pack Tactics

Advantage on attack rolls against a creature if at least one of the Dogmen's allies is within 5 ft. of the creature.

Trust Test

As an action, the Dogman can attempt to discern the intentions of a creature. Make a Wisdom (Insight) check against the target's Charisma (Deception) check. On success, learn if they are lying.

Keen Insight

Advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks and saving throws against deception.

Loyal Pact

Once trust is gained, allies within 30 feet gain +2 to saving throws.

strength

+5

dexterity

+6

constitution

+6

wisdom

+7