Spicule (3.5e Monster)

''The ground grew warm, a low tremor reverberating in the ground. Suddenly the ground split, erupting into a pillar of flame and heat which began chasing you down.''

A spicule is a giant serpent-like creature which lives in the desert, covered in rocky armor plates, large mandibles, and a mouth built for crushing rocks. Vents exist along its body which spray fire everywhere, and allow it to build underground glass lairs by melting down their surrounding sand. It consumes both meat and minerals, using the chemicals to fuel chemical reactions and expel the waste as heat and flame, which also make for a potent defense and means to hunt.

Spicules are dimly intelligent and understand Ignan, but do not speak. They eat and sleep, but do not breath. They are about 15 feet long and weigh 700 lbs.

Combat
Spicules often burrow from underground, striking the enemy from below and burrowing back under the earth to prevent counterattack. Even if prevented from burrowing, they are disturbingly fast on land. They pull maneuvers whenever able, and are able to jump a considerable distance, meaning floating over the ground isn't always safe.

Burning Body : A spicule is constantly wrapped in flame. Any creature striking with a non-reach weapon, a natural attack, or grappling takes 8d6 points of fire damage on impact. This damage also applies to its own natural attacks.

Maneuver-Like Abilities: burning bladeToB (boost), desert tempestToB (strike), firesnakeToB (strike), haze of lies (strike), hungry earth (strike), ring of fireToB (strike), rising phoenixToB (stance), sand spray (counter), searing chargeToB (strike), searing foehn (stance)

Sprint : Once per hour a spicule can move up to x10 its normal speed in a straight line as a full-round action. This movement provokes attacks of opportunity as normal.