Detect thoughts at will

[trentonjoe]

I am looking for a “monster” that can cast detect thoughts at will for a story arc. I know I could just tact the ability onto anything but I am looking for a “traditional” monster with this ability.

 

[Umbran]

Not exactly that spell, but... Doppelganger?

 

[MNblockhead]

The aboleth come close. One of my favorite villians. Not really detect thoughts as it (1) must communicate with you telepathically and (2) only detects your "greatest desires." I homebrew it to allow the aboleth to both detect your greatest desires without a saving throw (unless the character has some way to prevent telepathic communication) and also to detect thoughts, but with a saving throw.

 

[MNblockhead]

Note that Mind Flayers have Detect Thoughts at will. The elder brain has this and a powered up version that comes with its psychic link ability.

 

[MNblockhead]

Rakshasa have at-will detect thoughts.

and

Cranium Rats (swarm)

Lazav

Couatl

Slaad

Ultroloth

Yochlol

Ulitharid

 

[TaranTheWanderer]

Angels (devas etc..) can detect lies which might be good enough depending on what you are looking for.