sun curse

Called sulvash in Thalik, sun curse is a severe form of heat stroke most commonly suffered by those who travel into the the Y'dak without the proper preparations. It is characterized by dry, cracked skin interspersed with rashes and severe sun burns. Victims frequently suffer fevers, chills, uncontrollable tremors, and delirium.

History

The first recorded case of sulvash was documented 236 years ago by a priest of Zorek who sought to learn more about the "curse delivered to heretics of the sun". Stories of the sun curse date back to the days of Kaer Thalion's earliest settlers, describing victims of Zorek's wrath. Sufferers were feared and reviled as "blasphemers", and people avoided them at all costs, or killed them outright for fear of being struck by the sun's wrath themselves. This belief is still strong among the kumajai and more remote settlements of the burijai. Most madjai and burijai, however, now understand that it is a physiological affliction rather than a curse, and both healers and priests advise desert travelers on precautions to take to avoid it.

Treatment

Sulvash isn't specifically fatal, but victims inevitably die of dehydration if they do not find water and shelter. Cool water, burn salves, and fresh leaves from the alaloo plant are common forms of treatment. Victims are also encouraged to rest for several days, and where available, baths of water infused with revitalizing oils are used to help them as well.

Prevention

Methods of preventing sun curse are the same as any used to counteract heatstroke and dehydration. Desert travelers are also encouraged to carry "sun charms" by priests of Zorek, which are said to grant the sun lord's blessing on the wearer. Most sun charms are just baubles blessed by Zorek's priests, though some have been enchanted with actual protection spells.

Fear of Spread

Contrary to popular belief, sulvash is not a disease and cannot be spread to others. That said, the sores and rashes victims suffer frequently become infected, and contact with infected wounds can easily transmit the infection. Healers and priests regularly wear gloves and face coverings to protect themselves from possible infection.

Type

Physiological

Origin

Natural

Contagion Level

None

Cycle

Short-term

Rarity

Uncommon

"Victims should first be placed in a shelter or under shade as soon as possible. They should then be given no more than small sips of water at a time, laced with essence of alaloo or vadra if available. Too much water after so long without may drown the victim. Alaloo oil and healing salves should then be applied to any burns, sores, and rashes, taking care to wear gloves or other protection to prevent transmission of infections. Fevers should be treated with a cool cloth laid on the forehead. Essence of shakala can also help ease fevers and delirium, but should not be used in conjunction with essence of vadra or irritation of the throat and stomach could occur.
Once rested and watered, the victim can be given small amounts of fruits and vegetables heavy with water. Dried or salted foods should be avoided. Stewed fresh-caught fish is good for those able to keep down larger amounts of food. Continue providing water and/or fruit juices to the victim until they are able to stand on their own and any rashes, burns, and sores have fully closed, at which point the worst of the affliction has past. Victims should continue resting and drinking water as much as possible to regain their strength. Should all go well, full recovery should be achieved within two weeks."

- from Common Afflictions of the Desert

Submitted for Summer Camp 2021.

My Summer Camp 2021 Pledge