Saucer-Eyed Pup
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Climate/Terrain | Temperate/ Any |
| Frequency | Very rare |
| Organization | Solitary |
| Activity Cycle | Day |
| Diet | Special |
| Intelligence | Genius (18) |
| Treasure | Special |
| Alignment | Neutral (good) |
| No. Appearing | 1 (2-5) |
| AC | 4 to 1 |
| MV | 6" |
| HD | 2 to 7 |
| THAC0 | 19 to 13 |
| Attacks | 2 |
| Damage | 1-6/1-6 |
| Special Attacks | Locking jaw |
| Special Defenses | Magic consumption |
| MR | 100% |
| Size | S-L (2' to 7') |
| Morale | Fearless (20) |
Description
The Saucer-eyed Pup resembles nothing so much as a giant Pekinese, except for it's very large saucer-shaped eyes. Their fur ranges in color from light tan to golden-brown to sable. Their eyes are always a yellow coloration, though it may vary in what shade of yellow.
They rarely make any noise except for a soft whine. But when danger is near they will let out a sharp single bark (Arf!). The intensity and volume of this bark indicates the amount of danger. Otherwise the are quiet creatures.
Combat
When it comes to combat the Saucer-eyed Pup is not defenseless. The can swipe an opponent with their large paws for 1-6 points of damage and this is more of a cuff than an attack. They have also been known to pin an enemy (and at times friend) down with a paw or by sitting on them. As stated they are peaceful creatures. They have the ability to latch on to something (or somebody) with their jaws and locking them. This can do (according to why it was done in the first place) 1-12 damage and takes a bend bars roll to get free (no roll if person's arm is the object in their mouth unless said person has more than two arms).
Maybe the reason that they are 100% magic resistant is due to the fact that they consume magic. Spells, items, any type, they drain it dry. Artifacts are only effected temporarily (1-3 days). A coin with continual light cast on it is like a salt lick or a quick snack according to their appetite. They can just scoop up the item in their mouths, swish it around and spit it out void of magic. This can make for a wonderful way to be rid of cursed items and the now non-magic item is perfectly ready to be re-enchanted. They also make a wonderful buffer against fireballs, lightning bolts, any type of magic (yes even magic missile) thrown in their general direction as they eat it right out of the air. Of course if their full you may be in trouble as they will ignore it.
Habitat/Society
Saucer-eyed Pups live in small groups of 2 to 5, usually consisting of a mated pair and pups. They mate for life and are very caring for their young. Little is known of their lives in the wild except that adults sit around staring into space as if watching the universe or caring after the pups. The pups are more active, romping and playing all day.
Their eyes are one of their most intriguing and at times unnerving features. Unblinking they stare at things for as long as they find interest in it. Many an adventurer has got the willies trying to stare one down (which is impossible as they do not blink) or finding themselves being stared at.
It is unknown whether they understand humanoid languages. But they do seem to tolerate and even at times enjoy humanoid company.
Ecology
These very rare and peaceful creatures do not seem to seek out people nor avoid them. They calmly go about their lives in a most relaxed manner. They do not seem to be Territorial and have been known to share the area with all types of creatures.
If caught and trained when very young they make excellent companions and live some 500 years. Just remember to have plenty of magic to feed them!