Serpent's Decay
In 1017, the Avlinn States were at the height of attention and power. Their small nation had grown in size and power, already earning itself an Ark Order. Of the three gods from there, each was considered high ranking. Thousands immigrated to the area every month. As the year ended, the attention began to fade and it was presumed the small nation would become just another nation of the world.
On Vendri 4th: 1018, they would be the center of attention once again. This time, it would only grow and last for the next six decades as outsiders watched the nation suffer a deadly epidemic.
Mama's sickness got worse. Now Papa won't let us near her anymore. I've tried to console Leo, but he won't stop crying. 'Mama has water snakes in her!' I know that is not what has happened, but I have seen the bumps on Mama's skin, and I cannot find the soul to argue with Leo. I am scared, truly frightened. Camio grant her strength, for I know I have it not!
While the Serpent's Decay no longer poses a threat, its effects have lasted for centuries. More were killed by the fear of the disease; the isolated few turning into thousands as the Locked District became a prison for any who could be infected. With outside help refused, most of the world could only watch as a nation descended into chaos at what started out with a simple cough.
Symptoms
Stage 1
the onset - 5-7 days- dizziness
- sneezing
- coughing
- shivers
Stage 2
worsening - 4-6 days- nausea
- swollen throat
- shortness of breath
- stomach cramps
Stage 3
the marking - 3-5 days- stomach pain
- raised, slightly red skin pattern appears in twisting pattern around the body including within the mouth
- difficulty breathing
- heavy shivering
Stage 4
the respite - 2-3 days- shortness of breath
- begin to feel much better; this either continues until they fully recover or descends into stage 5
Stage 5
death - 1 day- strong chills
- intense stomach pain
- unable to breath
- raised pieces of skin rupture and begin to bleed
We thought it was over. We thought we were safe. Now Jeni isn't breathing and everything hurts.
Prognosis
Of those who get infected, only one third will survive. The truth isn't revealed until the final stage of the disease. By the point, the individual has either overcome the disease or is in the brief period of respite before their internal organs begin to shut down. The respite itself leads many to believe they may have been one of the lucky few, only to have their condition take a turn for the worst a few days later. Even those who survive must still live with the snaking pattern the disease leaves, as it will not fade with time.
Cultural Reception
It was only my second day since making it into the Locked District when I met her. Only the second, and already I was overwhelmed by the death and despair. So many families could do nothing but weep. Many do not understand our language, so when I ask if they need help too many fear I am robbing them of what little they have left.I found her as she sang. A young Somam woman hugging two younger brothers tightly as they mourned for their dying father. He already had the serpent's mark upon his skin. I could do nothing for him, so I did not intervene. But for the survivors, I held on hope. I decided to return the next day and bring a few supplies to help them. They first regarded me with suspicion, but when my intentions became clear they welcomed the help.The daughter can speak Camlich, albeit fragmented. I'd learned they'd lived in Erdann for naught but two years before the District was created. They'd lost their mother before coming here. Now they'd lost their father. As she spoke, I saw a familiar fire burning in the woman's eyes. There were many things I was not familiar with in the District, and far too much work to spend learning it all. So I asked if she wished to save those who she possibly could. She said yes. I warned her there was possible risk of getting sick. She said there was only risk here. I told her that not everyone could be saved.'So long as my brothers live, I'll fight.'She will not give me her name, for she feels she does not deserve it. So I have begun to call her 'Cadence'.
The fear of the Serpent's Decay spread quickly, especially those of the upper classes. Despite the idea of how the knowledge began many spread rumors that it was brought by foreigners, criminals, and poor people. This fear eventually led to the creation of the Locked District in 1035. Anyone who was sick and their family. It eventually spread to include anyone who could potentially be sick - which mostly involved fingers being pointed at the above listed. The poorly built slums only ended up aiding the spread of the disease, nor did it stop the spread outside the walls.
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