Any disease that exists in the real world is of course present in Pike Creek, but there are also a few diseases that are very specific to the setting and the town. These often present with symptoms similar to common illnesses, but generally have no cure. These diseases are not known in the scientific world and there are no doctors that can help you if you contract them.
Canis Hysteria
Section titled “Canis Hysteria”The only way to become a Lycanthrope is by contracting Canis Hysteria. This is a highly contagious disease spread through wounds inflicted by a werewolf. It is most potent when a human is between the ages 25 and 40. Gifted, Faded, Damned, Skinwalkers and Hollowborn are immune to Canis Hysteria.
Usually the adrenaline and trauma of being attacked by a werewolf is enough for the contractor to not realize they’ve gotten a disease.
High fever is the most obvious sign of Canis Hysteria. It usually gets to a point where some people die due to the high fever. Canis Hysteria only lasts for a few days, usually less than five days. People usually find themselves being tired, exhausted and with high fever during this time. They also notice not needing glasses, metabolism working faster and a sudden craving for meat, often uncooked.
Once Canis Hysteria passes, the person doesn’t feel much different. But it is important to note that this disease does not disappear. It is within the person all of the time. They feel it the strongest during a full moon when their first transformation happens, but they feel it subsequently every time a full moon approaches. Especially the hunger and growl of the beast within.
Sanguinare
Section titled “Sanguinare”You cannot become a Faded by bite alone, but prolonged feeding or being used as a blood source by a Faded can result in contracting the disease Sanguinare. This disease comes in different stages, but overall it makes you feel all the worst effects of being a Faded. You are sensitive to lights and especially the sun, you get pale, a high fever and usually feel very confused and disoriented.
At first, it presents itself as a common fever and cold. Sore throat, fever, maybe a stuffed nose. As it progresses you get a higher and higher fever. Light sensitivity worsens, with direct sunlight feeling almost painful against the skin. It is very discomforting and uncomfortable.
Sanguinare passes within a few days, but will leave its “victim” tired and out of energy for a few days after it has passed. It is strongly advised to avoid further feeding during recovery, as repeated exposure significantly worsens symptoms.
Tenuitas
Section titled “Tenuitas”Due to the inhabitants of the Damned in Pike Creek, clinical depression is running rampant. Usually, they are diagnosed as depressed, but this is a more temporary state of it. A victim of the Damned usually finds themselves feeling hollow, empty and a husk of their former selves. It is not a distinct sadness that they are feeling. Instead, their most hollow feelings make themselves prominent.
There is no cure for this, other than letting it pass. Oftentimes, this will pass within a day or two. Most Damned don’t leave their victims completely drained of positive emotions, since it prolongs recovery before they can feed again.
Elderflower is the most effective remedy for Tenuitas as it brings comfort and stillness.
Thalassum Lock
Section titled “Thalassum Lock”Thalassum Lock is a physical condition most commonly found among fishermen and others who spend long periods of time out on Pike Creek’s lake. It is not recognized as a distinct illness by modern medicine and is usually diagnosed as arthritis or joint degeneration.
Those affected experience a deep stiffness that settles into the joints, most often in the fingers, wrists, shoulders, and knees. The pain is dull rather than sharp and worsens in cold, damp weather. Joints may briefly lock after long periods of stillness, making simple movements difficult.
Symptoms often ease while out on the lake and worsen on land, particularly indoors. Long periods away from the water tend to aggravate the condition rather than improve it.
There is no cure for Thalassum Lock. Management focuses on movement, warmth, and endurance. Aconite-based salves may offer temporary relief, but do not stop progression.
Among fishermen, it is widely believed that the condition is not caused by strain alone, but by the body adapting to the lake itself.