Frosthemia

The Plague of Vélactris

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"It begins with a shiver, a mere icy breath in the blood, but it ends by freezing the soul itself."

— Account from a Vélactris doctor.

The Frosthemia is a rare and dreaded disease in the icy kingdom of Vélactris, under the reign of Cryos. It is distinguished by its ability to absorb the victim's internal heat, causing a progressive and irreversible freezing of the internal organs. Indifferent to the surrounding temperature, the Frosthemia strikes rarely, but its effects are so spectacular and dramatic that it inspires both fear and fascination.

Origins and Nature of the Disease

The exact origins of Frosthemia remain shrouded in mystery. Many theories exist, oscillating between rational explanations and mystical interpretations. Scholars of Velactris are mainly divided into two camps: those who suspect a magical origin and those who consider it a natural phenomenon, made worse by the frigid environment.
Some legends attribute this illness to a divine punishment from Cryos, inflicted on those who abuse his icy gifts or transgress sacred laws. Other tales speak of an epidemic born from prolonged exposure to cursed artifacts buried in the frozen depths of Velactris. Despite centuries of study, no consensus has been reached, and Frosthemia remains a medical and magical enigma.

Symptoms

The progression of Frosthemia is as insidious as it is frightening, divided into several distinct phases.

Initial Phase

Early signs include persistent shivering, felt even in warm environments. Patients report unusual fatigue and a feeling of heaviness in the limbs. Soon after, numbness appears in the extremities, accompanied by loss of sensation in the fingers and toes.

Intermediate Phase

As the days go by, the symptoms become more visible. A fine frost begins to form on the skin, particularly around the main veins, creating patterns reminiscent of ice crystals. The lips and extremities take on a bluish or silver tint, while the heart rate slows, sometimes plunging the patient into a state close to hibernation.

Terminal Phase

La phase finale est marquée par une congélation complète des organes internes. Ce processus, bien que progressif, est souvent accompagné d'une douleur insupportable, décrite par les malades comme des piqûres de glace traversant le corps. Lorsque le cœur gèle, la mort est inévitable. Après le décès, des cristaux de glace sont souvent retrouvés dans le sang, témoignant de la nature unique et destructrice de cette maladie.

Propagation and Triggering Factors

Unlike other illnesses, Frosthemia does not appear to be contagious in the traditional sense. No contact or airborne transmission has ever been confirmed. However, it tends to affect certain bloodlines recurrently, suggesting a hereditary or magical component.
The most recent theories link its triggering to supernatural events. For example, prolonged exposure to cursed artifacts or unstable magical zones could activate the disease in dormant bearers. These places, often isolated and dangerous, nevertheless attract adventurers in search of wealth or forgotten secrets, unintentionally increasing cases of Frosthemia.

Treatments and Remedies

Despite centuries of research, no definitive treatment has been found for Frosthemia. However, several methods are used to slow its progression or relieve symptoms.

Known Treatments

• Thermomagic : Mages who specialize in heat manipulation can warm affected tissue and slow internal freezing. However, this method requires extreme precision to avoid burns or energy imbalances.
• Balms made from Fiery Essence : These unguents, derived from rare herbs and infused with magic, are applied directly to the affected areas. They offer temporary relief but do not stop progression.
• Experimental Surgery : In advanced cases, doctors may remove frozen tissue to prevent spread. Although this method sometimes saves lives, it leaves patients severely disabled.

Potential Remedies

Alchemists and mages are actively exploring more sustainable solutions. Promising avenues include:

• Magical Elixirs: Experimental potions, combining rare alchemical ingredients and energy crystals, are being tested to counter the effects of the disease.
• Purification Rituals: These complex ceremonies aim to eliminate the icy essence of illness by channeling opposing energies, such as those related to fire or life.

Impact on Society

Frosthemia is not just a medical threat; it is also a social phenomenon deeply rooted in the culture of Velactris. Victims of the disease are often stigmatized, seen as cursed or marked by Cryos itself. In some regions, the sick are exiled or confined to isolated sanctuaries, where they can live out their final days in peace.
However, examples of compassion do exist. Some communities hold vigils, singing heartfelt hymns to ease the suffering of the sick. These songs, bearers of hope and solidarity, remind us that even in the face of ice, the fire of humanity never completely goes out.

Associated Legends

A popular legend tells of an ancient mage from Vélactris, obsessed with mastering ice, who contracted Frosthemia after manipulating a forbidden artifact. This mage, known as Obadiah Diorfel, is said to have eventually embraced the disease, transforming his body into living ice, becoming a semi-divine entity capable of traveling through Vélactris without ever melting.
This story inspires both fear and hope, as it suggests that those who succumb to Frosthemia might find a form of eternity through their transformation.

Legacy and Hope

Although feared, Frosthemia has pushed the inhabitants of Velactris to innovate and collaborate to better understand their world. Research into this disease has led to advances in the fields of magic and alchemy, strengthening this society's resilience against the icy challenges of Cryos.
Frosthemia remains an enigma, but she also embodies the fighting spirit and creativity of the people of Velactris. Whether through science, magic or legends, the fight against this disease continues to define an essential part of their identity.

Type

Unknown

Rarity

Rare