Cherub Curse

Also known as Hatchling Chill Syndrome, the Cherub Curse is a condition that causes malformation or stunted growth in Voloukris children. There is an old belief shared among Voloukris mothers that showing off one's unhatched eggs to anyone outside the household brings bad luck upon the children within. While this old wives' tale does certainly hold some wisdom, it's not quite an accurate explanation for the condition.

Causes

Voloukris eggs need constant care and attention to ensure they stay at a consistent and proper incubation temperature. Eggs that are exposed to cold temperatures during certain points in their development, or that aren't turned regularly, will result in uneven growth of the hatchling. The duration and frequency of exposure will determine how serious the malformation is.

Symptoms

Malformation is most common in the major limbs. An arm, the legs, or even the wings will present as either incorrectly formed or stunted in growth. Depending on the affected area, this can hinder the individual in many ways. It is considered, by other Voloukris, that the wings are the most unfortunate part of oneself to be affected as even the most minor case can result in the individual being permanently unable to fly. While deficiencies in other areas can be compensated for, there is no known aide or technology to allow a grounded Voloukris to fly.

Prevention

In order to stave off the Curse of Hubris, parents of a new clutch of eggs should keep them in a warm room. It's recommended to plan pregnancies so that a clutch is not laid during the winter months. In cases where this is unavoidable, an interior room is preferable to an exterior one, which could be more prone to drafts.
At least one parent should stay with the clutch at all times to help maintain optimal incubation temperature. Under no circumstances should the eggs be removed from their nest. Visits from people outside the household should be kept to a minimum and outsiders should not be let into the nest room before the eggs begin to show signs of hatching.

Type

Physiological

Cycle

Chronic, Congenital

Rarity

Rare

Affected Species

• Voloukris