Species
Smokwyrm
Visual Trait IndexSummary
Soul Essence Location: Eyes, Blood, mouth, innards, acid.
Bone/Teeth/Nail colour: White, or off-white.
Required Traits: Eyes, Tails, Crest, Texture
Average Height (from nose to tail):
Serpent: 2 ft 6inches - 5 ft
Wiggler: 1 ft - 3 ft
Leviathan: 15ft - 30 ft
Diet: Omnivorous, consuming insects and meat. Appetite increases with size.
Location: Thrives in warm climates, often found in grasslands, forest floors, and volcanic regions.
✦ General Info ✦
General Info
(Smok-Why-rum)
A diminutive, six-legged creature resembling a tiny dragon, the Smokwyrm possesses an extraordinary ability to grow to monstrous proportions. As a defense mechanism, it produces a thick, acrid smoke within its gut to deter potential threats.
While typically docile, the Smokwyrm's survival instincts are fierce. Its stomach acid, capable of corroding stone, is a last resort employed when escape is impossible.
✦ Anatomy ✦
Anatomy
Smoke Wyrms possess elongated, serpentine bodies equipped with six small legs. While capable of slithering, they predominantly rely on their limbs for rapid movement. The body is typically slender and devoid of a tail, with the first two pairs of legs articulating from the shoulders. Artistic interpretation allows for variation in body length based on Smoke Wyrm type, and the inclusion or exclusion of joint folds on the legs.
The six legs bear a resemblance to avian feet, granting the Smoke Wyrm the ability to manipulate objects with their talons. Talons can be depicted in two primary styles: the raptor-like configuration, featuring three forward-facing toes and a hind toe for gripping, or the parrot-like structure with four forward-facing toes, utilizing the inner two as opposable digits.
To enhance the illusion of a limbless creature, the legs can be retracted closer to the body, creating the appearance of a serpentine form gliding on its belly.
Additionally, Smoke Wyrm hands are equipped with nails and exhibit a rough palm texture, suggesting adaptations for climbing challenging terrain. A distinctive feather-like crest adorns the head, serving as a communication tool among Smoke Wyrms and other species.
Despite their seemingly toothless appearance, Smoke Wyrms possess microscopic, hook-shaped teeth resembling burrs within their mouths for prey capture. Alternative depictions may include retractable teeth or a completely toothless configuration.
Vital fluids and internal components of the Smoke Wyrm, including blood, soul essence, and acid, are imbued with color, primarily residing within the eyes, mouth, and innards.
✦ Head Shapes ✦
Head shapes
Smoke Wyrms exhibit a diverse range of head shapes, from the classic "Drake" with its elongated lower jaw, often referred to as an underbite, to more unusual configurations akin to a Hognose snake. Essentially, any serpentine head shape can be found among these creatures.
A unique feature of the Smoke Wyrm is its olfactory system. The primary nostrils are located on the snout, while an additional pair, positioned slightly further back, is typically concealed from view. These secondary nostrils not only enhance the Smoke Wyrm's sense of smell but also function as heat and motion detectors.
The prominence of the head's cheeks varies depending on the Smoke Wyrm's hunting style. Species reliant on powerful bites tend to have more pronounced cheek muscles, whereas those with smoother head shapes employ different predatory tactics.
✦ Behaviour ✦
Behaviour
Smaller Smoke Wyrms are typically cautious creatures, exhibiting a keen awareness of their surroundings and swift reflexes. They often engage in sunbathing to regulate their body temperature before embarking on hunts. Predominantly ambush predators, they rely on stealth and speed to subdue prey. Their preference for concealed environments makes them adept at finding suitable hiding spots. Interestingly, they can form a strong bond with humans and are known to enjoy the comfort of their owner's pockets.
While capable of coexisting with other Smoke Wyrms, social dynamics can be complex. Similar to chickens, a pecking order often emerges, with individuals vying for prime feeding and bathing locations.
✦ Life Cycle ✦
Life cycle
Birth:
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Death:
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