Zmey (Zmey vulgaris) are a species of draconic Chimera.
.anatomy
Zmey have a reptilian body plan, reaching ~30 m in length, most of which is comprised by their neck and tail. They are hexapods, their legs possessing insect-like joint articulation, followed by regular reptilian feet, along with a pair of wings. Their heads have an elongated snout and multiple pairs of horns forming a crown. Their skeletal system consists of both an endoskeleton and a metallic exoskeleton composed of overlapping metal scales. The colour of their Phlogiston is yellow.
.behaviour
Zmey are solitary creatures. They are easily frightened, preferring to run instead of fight, but can become very aggressive if provoked for long periods, snapping at everything around them. They have photographic memory, can remember faces, and can hold grudges for life. They’re also hoarders, gathering stuff they find interesting in their nests, usually shiny or metallic, and sometimes even smaller creatures.
.abilities
The exoskeleton of a Zmey isn’t flush with their body. Instead, it has gaps between it and the skin, which is dense with node clusters, and thus allow for Phlogiston to build up below the metal scales. This not only heats them up, causing severe burns to the touch, but also means that, should the scales be even slightly breached, the attacker will be instantly incinerated by the erupting flames. Other node clusters can be found in the Zmey’s throat, which grant them the ability to breathe Phlogiston out as a pressurised vapour.
Their tails, legs and wings are segmented, linked together through vascularised tissue sheaths, designed in such a way that, in case of emergency, the segments can be safely removed without causing any long-lasting trauma, severe pain or blood loss. All lost segments, along with damage to their exoskeleton, will be healed during the moulting cycle.
.reproduction
Zmey reproduce sexually. The scales of female Zmey become golden from the hormone spikes caused by the approaching mating season. Male Zmey court females by embellishing their nests with as many eye-catching objects it can scavenge, even resorting to stealing from other males. The female lays 4 eggs/clutch, which are taken care of by both parents, in shifts. Cipactin usually live ~60 years.
.diet
Zmey are omnivorous. Their size does mean they can hunt smaller creatures with ease. The passive emanation of Phlogiston in their throat allows them to be opportunistic scavengers, sterilising rotting matter. They also consume a variety of rocks, metals and other minerals, as material for their exoskeleton.