Fire Elemental
Large Elemental, neutral
1,800 XP
Special Abilities
Fire Form
The elemental can move through a space as narrow as 1 inch wide without squeezing. A creature that touches the elemental or hits it with a melee attack while within 5 ft. of it takes 5 (1d10) fire damage. In addition, the elemental can enter a hostile creature's space and stop there. The first time it enters a creature's space on a turn, that creature takes 5 (1d10) fire damage and catches fire; until someone takes an action to douse the fire, the creature takes 5 (1d10) fire damage at the start of each of its turns.
Illumination
The elemental sheds bright light in a 30-foot radius and dim light in an additional 30 ft..
Water Susceptibility
For every 5 ft. the elemental moves in water, or for every gallon of water splashed on it, it takes 1 cold damage.
Actions
Multiattack
The elemental makes two touch attacks.
Touch
Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) fire damage. If the target is a creature or a flammable object, it ignites. Until a creature takes an action to douse the fire, the target takes 5 (1d10) fire damage at the start of each of its turns.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
Fire Elementals are relentless melee combatants that should engage the party aggressively. Use their high mobility to position them advantageously and target vulnerable party members. Take advantage of their Fire Form trait to damage enemies that strike them in melee. Remember they can squeeze through narrow openings and use terrain features to control positioning.
Combat Tactics
Fire Elementals prioritize dealing maximum damage through their Multiattack, striking twice per round with their touch attacks. They use their movement speed to chase down fleeing targets and maintain distance from threats. When surrounded, leverage their Fire Form to discourage melee engagement while continuing to assault ranged combatants.
Environment & Setting
Fire Elementals naturally inhabit volcanic regions, active lava flows, magma chambers, or wizard towers with braziers and magical flame sources. Place them in environments where flames spread or obstacles can be set ablaze to enhance their threatening presence.