Diseases

Even in the magical world of Jo'Arca, sickness and diseases are still an occurance. It is safe to assume that Stardragons still suffer from mundane illnesses such as common cold, the flu, and the many sicknesses that we ourselves have. This guide's purpose is to showcase some of the unique diseases that have occassionally appeared in this setting. 

Crystal-Eyene
Afflicted Shooters & Stardragons with low/no magic. A common illness, but easy to treat in the early stages. If left untreated, causes blindness as one (or both) of the afflicted eyes cloud over and eventually crystalize. Many Stardragons are carriers without being affected as their innate magic renders it's effects inert. Because of this, many navy shooters consider it an indicator that a soldier has been 'mingling' with natives. 

Feather Nits
Afflicted: StarSweepers. Spread by small parasites that burrow in the skin. Causes feathers to fall out or come in improperly/ ingrown. Highly contageous though usually avoided with the proper hygiene.

Hollow Horn: Afflicted: Horned Stardragons. An infection that rots the horn of a Stardragon from the inside out. Early warning signs is a strange discolouration of the area before it starts to crack and break. Difficult to treat in later stages and if too much damage is done, amputation of the rotted part is necessary to prevent spreading. 

Fever Pitch: Afflicted: Any Stardragon. Symptoms like the flu, with one exception; victims feel as if their gems are 'heating up' and 'burning' despite there being no temperature difference. Keeping the patient's gem covered with a damp cloth helps reduce the effect but in extreme cases they may need to be restrained until the fever breaks to prevent them from trying to claw the gem out of their own flesh. 

ShatterShale: Afflicted: StarCrafters. A fungal infection. Crafter shale naturally grows and flakes off, but the shale of those afflicted instead compacts and builds up.. until it splits in half, often splitting the skin underneath and leaving deep wounds. Ointment and herbal oils are used to counter and kill the fungus as it is very resiliant to heat. 

Jagged: Afflicted: Any Stardragon. A rare illness that causes gems to star growing small jagged points inward into the flesh of the Stardragon, causing great pain. Potentially lethal if left untreated. In later stages surgery is often necessary. Floating gems appear immune. 

This is far from a complete list, as new diseases are discovered and some are cured as time goes on. People in the community are also welcome to create their own diseases and illnesses so please do not feel restricted to only using the diseases listed above. Have fun, and try to stay healthy!