Ironblight

Definition:

Ironblight is a slow-developing toxic condition caused by prolonged exposure to improperly smelted or contaminated iron — particularly iron ore mined near sulfur pits, poison-laced groundwaters, or former battlefields rich in decomposed bodies and rusted war relics. Blacksmiths, miners, soldiers, and scavengers are especially at risk. The blight is not infectious, but exposure over time allows metallic toxins to accumulate in the blood, bones, and nervous system.

Symptoms:

Vein Discoloration:

Victims report a deep, slicing pain from within, especially around joints and pressure points. Movement worsens the sensation, as the hardened venom shifts and cuts through muscle.

Chronic Fatigue:

A telltale sign is a darkening of the veins near the extremities, particularly the hands, forearms, and feet. The skin becomes pallid with a grayish hue.

Joint Locking and Pain:

Iron accumulates in the joints, especially the knees, fingers, and elbows. Swelling, stiffness, and a grinding sensation are common.

Neurological Effects:

In later stages, victims may experience tremors, headaches, vertigo, or momentary blackouts due to toxic buildup affecting the brain.

Metallic Breath and Sweat:

A subtle scent of rust clings to the breath and sweat of those affected. Their perspiration may stain cloth or tarnish metals worn on the skin.

Progression:

Early Stage:

Fatigue, minor joint aches, and light discoloration of veins. Often mistaken for overwork.

Middle Stage:

Clear vein darkening, reduced mobility, muscle stiffness, and neurological symptoms begin to appear.

Final Stage:

If untreated, the victim experiences extreme pain, cognitive decline, and systemic organ failure due to metal poisoning. Death is possible, especially with continued exposure.

Origin and Causes:

Ironblight is most commonly contracted by: Working in unventilated smithies where fumes from poor-quality ore aren't properly extracted. Mining in corrupted or mineral-rich zones where iron mixes with sulfur or arsenic deposits. Using old, rusted weapons or armor regularly without proper cleaning or protection. Exposure to rainrun-off in battlefield ruins, which leaches metallic toxins into nearby water and soil.

Common Locations:

The Red Mines of Rukhar.
Abandoned outposts in the Rotfang Highlands.
Bonefield Ridge, where rusted siege weapons from a hundred-year war still rot in the open.
Contaminated wells near Ebonbarrow.

Treatment and Remedies:

Silverthorn Purge Tincture:

A potent detoxification tonic made from Silverthorn Berries, Crushed Juniper Bark, and aged vinegar, designed to purge heavy metals from the bloodstream.

Iron Leech Poultice:

A black poultice made from Charcoal Ash, Elderwood Bark, and ground leeches applied to the joints and veins to draw out toxins through the skin.

Sweatstone Therapy:

Healers use steam rooms with heated Frost Lotus petals and Willow's Tear infusions to open pores and stimulate sweating, aiding in toxin expulsion.

Rest and Clean Diet:

A strict regimen of herbal teas (primarily White Orchid and Willow's Tear), rest, and clean water is crucial during recovery.

Prevention:

Always smelt iron in well-ventilated areas and test ore for contamination using Moonmilk paste (a simple alchemical pH indicator).
Wear protective wraps and gloves when handling rusted or battlefield-recovered iron.
Avoid drinking groundwater in old conflict zones unless filtered with Elderwood charcoal.
Iron workers are advised to take Silverthorn tinctures weekly as a preventative measure.

Type

Chemical Compound