Shimmersin Serpent

The Shimmersin Serpent is a rare, small creature, the only distinguishing features of which are that thehy have pearlescent scales. These serpents are not native to any specific region, instead produced through transfigurative energies radiated from Pearl Dragons. Shimmersin Snakes are not so much a species of snake as they are an evolution of another snake. They are no more or less dangerous than a common garden snake, but they are highly sought after for their unique venom and scales, both of which are valuable to the upper classes of society. In recent years the value of these snakes has dropped significantly on account of their commercialisation.

Appearance

Shimmersin Serpents are particularly unique on account of them not reproducing in the way most snakes or animals do. Shimmersin Snakes are what come of snakes that are exposed to the intense and unique transformative effects of Pearl Dragons. Any snake can become a Shimmersin snake, and as such, their appearances can vary hugely. A python that is transformed into a Shimmersin Serpent will still possess its length, weight and width, just as a transformed cobra will still possess its frills.
The scales of the Shimmersin Serpent refract the light, giving the scales a pearlescent, rainbow glow under sunlight. It is this distinguishing feature that identifies a transformed serpent that has become a Shimmersin Serpent.

Behaviour

Shimmersin Serpents have been observed to possess personalities and behaviours very similar to their own original forms. Some serpents do seem to react to the new colour of their scales; as the transformation is usually rather rapid, but they adapt quickly.

Habitat

On account of being the result of a transformed serpent, the Shimmersin Serpent does not have a unqiue habitat. Instead, it retains the preferred environment its original form possesses.

Anatomy

The transformation of a serpent into a Shimmersin Serpent results only in two observable anatomical changes: one to the scales, and another to the venom of the serpent.

Scales

The scales of the Shimmersin are uniquely coloured for a serpent: pearlesent and white, similar to opals. They are not translucent or transparent, but reflect and refract light into other colours. This makes them particularly easy to spot from a distance in sun or moonlight.
The unique colouring of the scales allows them to fetch a high price when traded or sold. However, they do not possess any other unique properties as far as has been identified.

Venom

The venom of a Shimmersin is most unique of all. A Shimmersin Serpent's venom functions identically to that of its original form, save for its colour and strange bleaching effect. Most materials become bleached when exposed directly to the venom of a Shimmersin Serpent, leaving an area of paleness that sparkles and shimmers under sunlight, much like the scales of the Shimmersin. This unique property of Shimmersin venom is sought after and highly valuable to members of higher society, who use trace amounts of bleach and colour hair, cloth, and furnishings, giving them a sparkly appearance at a fraction of the cost of total bedazzlement.

Economic Situation

Historically, Shimmersin Serpents have fetched a high price in most markets across The Land. Shimmersin Serpent skin has often sold at as high as 3gp per square foot, meanwhile the venom has sold for 5gp per 50ml vial. However, recent exploits have resulted in these prices dropping nearly tenfold as Shimmersin skin and venom has flooded the market.

Mass Commercialisation

In recent days the prices of Shimmersin Serpent products have fallen dramatically on account of the founding and successes of the world's first "Pearlery". A group of big-game hunters known as The Pearl Hat Gang were recently able to capture an adult Pearl Dragon alive. In doing so, they have ensured that the regions around the Pearl Dragon (known now by the name "Princess") remain enchanted and infused with its transfigurative aura. Through the selling of may Shimmersin Serpents, the gang were able to purchase and secure a large plot of land around the dragon ensuring no others are able to piggy-back on their success.
Serpents from across The Land are regularly bought and shipped to the Pearlery to be transformed by the Pearl Dragon and resold at a much higher price.