Homebrew Fenrathi Species Details

The Fenrathi are powerful, intelligent wolves whose imposing forms combine the instincts of an apex predator with the awareness and intellect of a civilized people. Built for speed, endurance, and relentless pursuit, they move through forests, mountains, rivers, and settlements with a confidence born from knowing that few creatures can outrun them once they have chosen their quarry.

A Fenrathi's body is its greatest weapon. Their powerful claws are capable of tearing through flesh and armor, becoming increasingly deadly as the Fenrathi grows in experience and strength. Because their anatomy is poorly suited to conventional weapons and armor, Fenrathi rely entirely upon their natural weapons and increasingly resilient hides in battle. As they mature, their bodies become remarkably difficult to injure, allowing experienced Fenrathi to withstand attacks that would easily bring down lesser creatures.

Fenrathi possess exceptionally keen predatory senses. Their hearing can distinguish subtle sounds at considerable distances, while their powerful sense of smell allows them to detect traces that other creatures would never notice. These natural gifts make Fenrathi excellent hunters, scouts, and trackers. Despite their considerable size and powerful builds, they are also remarkably capable of moving quietly when stalking prey.

Among the Fenrathi, strength means more than physical power. Confidence, determination, and the ability to command respect are highly valued, and even a solitary Fenrathi carries the imposing presence of an alpha predator. Their growls, posture, and unwavering attention can communicate threats as effectively as spoken words, making Fenrathi naturally intimidating to those unfamiliar with their kind.

Fenrathi appearances vary considerably between individuals and bloodlines. Their coats can display nearly any coloration found among wolves, ranging from white, gray, silver, and brown to deep black, with many possessing mixtures or distinctive markings. Their eyes are equally varied, often displaying striking shades of amber, gold, green, blue, or gray. Though their proportions and features unmistakably resemble those of enormous wolves, intelligence and emotion are readily visible in their expressions and behavior.

Whether traveling alongside other peoples or living among their own kind, Fenrathi retain powerful social instincts. Loyalty and trust carry tremendous significance to them, and those accepted as companions may come to be regarded as members of the Fenrathi's pack regardless of species. Once such a bond is established, a Fenrathi can be a fiercely dependable ally—and an exceptionally dangerous enemy to anyone who threatens those they consider their own.

Fenrathi Traits

As a Fenrathi, you have the following traits...

Ability Score Improvement

If you are using the 2014 rules, increase one ability score by 2 and a different ability score by 1. If you are using 2024 rules, ignore this trait.

Natural Weapons

Your claws are natural weapons, and they are the only weapons you can use to make attacks. You use your Dexterity modifier for the attack and damage rolls of your claw attacks. On a hit, your claws deal 1d6 slashing damage. This damage increases to 2d6 at 8th level and 3d6 at 17th level.

Hardy

Your hit point maximum increases by 1, and it increases by 1 whenever you gain a level.

Natural Defense

Your thick hide and powerful build provide exceptional natural protection. While you aren't wearing armor, your Armor Class equals 14 + your Dexterity modifier.

Alpha Presence

You gain proficiency in the Intimidation skill. Your proficiency bonus is doubled for any ability check you make that uses Intimidation.

Predator's Instincts

Your predatory instincts make you exceptionally alert and naturally adept at moving unseen. You gain proficiency in the Perception and Stealth skills.

Keen Hearing and Smell

Your heightened senses allow you to detect sounds and scents that others might miss. You have advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell.