Sorrowshell Crab

Overview

Sorrowshell Crabs are a species of crustaceans that dwell in the shallows of typically tropical regions. It is responsible for the condition known as The Shimmering Sorrow.

Appearance

Like most crabs, it has eight legs and two front pincers. Within crab species, it lies on the the slightly larger size, with most being around 9-10 inches across, but some reach up to a full foot. They can weigh up to 25lbs, though usually slightly less. It has a purplish appearance, but that is due to an oily substance it secretes that coats its shell. The crab's true colour is dark grey underneath, with a paler underside.

Life Cycle

These Crabs usually live for around 10 years. Like most crabs, it follows a four stage system of growth. The larval stage lasts around three months, but it is the post-larval stage upon which they truly look like crabs, though tiny. The post larval stage is around another three months before the crab is considered 'juvenile'. During the juvenile stage, the crab will shed its skin (molting), in order to facilitate growth. This will happen several times before the crab reaches its full size, usually at around two years old.

The Shimmering Sorrow

The oily substance that coats their shell is a mixture of two chemicals that the crab produces in separate glands within their shell. This substance can be absorbed through the skin, which then inflicts The Shimmering Sorrow onto the unlucky soul. The effects of this sickness are two-fold: the skin turns translucent and the individual is wracked with intense sadness. It is understood, from studying this substance and dissections of the crab, that each of the two chemicals are responsible for one effect each. The latter has since been used as an ingredient (in tiny quantities) in concontions that combat certain charm spells, as it helps break the 'high' that comes with said charms.
For the crab, creatures that become inflicted with The Shimmering Sorrow are quickly dehydrated and driven to the nearest water source with what little energy they have remaining. Since their are a coastal creature, the water source is usually the sea, and thus, saltwater. Essentially, the poor victim is driven into an unintentional spiral that ends with their death, and the crab can feast on their remains - immune to their own chemicals.

Location

Sorrowshell Crabs enjoy warmer waters, generally. As such, they are typically found in the coastal areas of Suriima, Drassau, Thrabad and the region of Hantou. They tend to stick around the shores and shallows of these areas, though will delve deeper, or into cave systems to lay their eggs. Either way, this is in search of a sheltered location so their young have their best chance to hatch and survive.

Average Weight

10-25lbs

Average Length

9-10"

Geographic Distribution

• Drassau
• Hantau
• Suriima
• Thrabad