Blackworm

Blackworms are a species not unlike leeches in appearance, but much larger and more advanced. They favor warm temperate and tropical areas with a high humidity. Thay have, however, been found in the sewers of many metropolitan areas.

Combat: They typically hunt in packs of 2 to 8 individuals in a manner similar to that of wolves; taking out stragglers when a group of creatures passes through their territory. Thus, most that are sighted in sewers often attack the rear guard of a party. They lead off the attack with a bite that causes 1d4+1 damage. Those bitten must save vs poison or succumb to its debilitative effects; 2d6 turns of disorientation at -4 to both AC and attacks. On the next round, the blackworm wraps itself around its victim and begins squeezing for 2d4 damage each round until a successful bb/lg roll is made, or until the beast dies.

Habitat/Society: Blackworms frequent swamps and other humid areas, and as such are often found in the presence of hydras and black dragons, both of which feed on the worms. Though the worms typically feed on the blood of their victims, they use the carrion to lay their eggs in.

Ecology: In the swamps they inhabit, blackworms fill an important niche as both wolf-like hunters and carrion disposal units. Other than these two functions, and being an occaisional meal for dragons and hydrae, blackworms have no practical use.