Plague of Shadows

The Plague of Shadows is a devastating degenerative disease caused by exposure to Astral Horrors, beings from beyond the known realms whose influence disrupts natural biological processes. This disease affects tissues and organs through progressive cellular decay, leading to severe deterioration over time.

Transmission & Vectors

The Plague of Shadows is transmitted through magical contamination, often linked to exposure to Astral Horrors. It can spread via direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects. The disease becomes infectious in the intermediate stage, when shadowy lesions and decaying tissue release spores that can infect others.

Causes

The Plague of Shadows begins with exposure to Astral Horror remnants or their influence. Environmental factors include dark, enchanted areas where Astral Horrors have appeared. Transmission occurs through contact with infected individuals, contaminated objects, or areas touched by the Horrors. The disease spreads via shadowy spores released from decaying tissues.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the Plague of Shadows include persistent fatigue, skin discoloration, and sensitivity to light. As it progresses, it causes joint pain, shadowy lesions, chronic pain, swelling, and severe organ deterioration. In advanced stages, it leads to organ failure, cognitive decline, and necrotic skin patches.

Treatment

Treatment of the Plague of Shadows with natural remedies involves using potent herbal extracts and salves to soothe symptoms and support organ function. Divine magic may offer relief through healing prayers and rituals, aimed at purifying and restoring balance to the afflicted body, but its effectiveness varies.

Prognosis

The Plague of Shadows typically progresses from early fatigue and skin discoloration to severe organ failure and cognitive decline. In advanced stages, it is often fatal due to systemic collapse. The disease's progression is relentless and devastating without intervention.

Sequela

Pathological conditions from the Plague of Shadows include severe organ failure, necrotic tissue, and cognitive decline. Late-stage complications involve systemic collapse and chronic pain. After contracting the disease, secondary infections and persistent organ dysfunction become more likely, exacerbating the overall health decline and complicating recovery.

Hosts & Carriers

The Plague of Shadows primarily affects humanoid beings and does not significantly impact fauna or flora directly. However, contaminated environments and objects can harbor the disease. Some magical plants or creatures might exhibit symptoms or carry spores, but they generally do not suffer from the disease as humans do.

Prevention

Prevention methods for the Plague of Shadows include avoiding areas contaminated by Astral Horrors, using protective charms and barriers, and maintaining strict hygiene. Regular health screenings and early quarantine of suspected cases also help reduce transmission. Divine blessings and purification rituals offer additional protection against the disease's spread.

Epidemiology

The Plague of Shadows spreads through contact with infected individuals, contaminated objects, or areas tainted by Astral Horrors. Outbreaks can start from exposure to these sources, with rapid spread in densely populated or poorly protected areas, potentially leading to epidemics or pandemics if containment measures fail.

History

The Great Library suffered an outbreak of the Plague of Shadows in 1020 DA, linked to an Astral Horror-related incident. The outbreak swept through the library community, significantly reducing the population and overwhelming the limited medical knowledge and resources available. The isolation meant there was no external help, leading to high mortality rates.
A strange and mysterious illness spread through the lower tunnels of Wyvernview Kingdom in 1020 DA, causing widespread panic. The swift and disciplined actions of the The Stoneward Sentinels prevented the plague from reaching the central areas, though some remote settlements suffered heavy losses such as Shadowhall.  This severe outbreak of the Plague of Shadows was attributed to incursions by Astral Horrors. This event caused a major health crisis, prompting the kingdom to bolster its health measures and fortify the divine protective enchantments against future occurrences.
The Plague of Shadows ravaged Tinkergarde Kingdom in 1183 DA, 1241 DA, 1475 DA, and 1539 DA, each outbreak connected to increased Astral Horror activity. These recurring crises spurred significant advancements in medical technologies and led to the implementation of rigorous quarantine measures to contain the disease.

Cultural Reception

The Plague of Shadows is met with fear and suspicion. Victims and carriers are often ostracized or isolated due to the disease's association with Astral Horrors. Cultural stigma surrounds the condition, leading to social exclusion and a perception of danger or contamination, rather than reverence.

Type

Supernatural

Origin

Alien

Cycle

Chronic, Acquired

Rarity

Rare