The Blight

Blemishing is a symptom of a disease caused by a parasite known as Agraphum. This name was given years ago by the Cloki, who discovered what is now referred to as The First Hive.

The disease manifests through both psychological and physical symptoms. The parasite enters the host's body through any accessible opening and lodges itself within, using its bone-like appendages to anchor to surrounding tissue. It burrows into the flesh while numbing the area with its bites, resulting in minimal pain during the process. The parasite's head remains unburied and mobile, aided by the slick, black substance that constitutes most of its body.

Early symptoms of infection include:

• Hearing voices. [The parasite talking to them may try out voices to see what works best.]
• Slick black patches forming on the body.
• Sclera changing to black or other colors.

During this initial phase, the host is considered "Blemished," named after the ink-like spots that appear on their skin.

Once the parasite fully takes control, the host becomes nothing more than a vessel to serve the hive. The parasite, highly intelligent, manipulates its host and others to prioritize the hive's well-being. It can communicate with the host, sometimes even striking deals to gain their compliance. Through a hive mind, the parasite recognizes other infected creatures and refrains from aggression toward them, fostering unity among the afflicted.

Cultural Misunderstanding and Stigma

Despite the intricate nature of the parasite, little is known about its biology or behavior among the general populace. The people of Atgra interpret the disease as divine punishment, either from the old gods or other supernatural forces. This belief has led to widespread stigma against the infected, who are often shamed and ostracized. Victims of the disease tend to seek solace among others like them, often gravitating unknowingly toward hives.

Origins and Suppression of Knowledge

The parasite originates from the Cloki homeland, though hives have since spread worldwide. Outside this region, knowledge of the parasite is even scarcer. The Lead Elder of the Cloki possesses full understanding of the hives and their workings but actively suppresses this information. By promoting the idea that the disease is a form of divine punishment, the elders aim to deter immoral behavior and prevent widespread panic within their communities.