Hello! Long time lurker, seldom poster.
I was considering the old debate regarding the origins of syphilis (that is, whether it is a New World disease or described in classical Greek texts) when I remarked upon a lack of diseases in EB character traits.
We have things like madness (loss of influence or management), Lame (permanent movement impairment), Under the Weather/Bedridden (temporary stat decrease) but there are a host of other ailments that we humans are susceptible too, infectious or congenital, that the family members and generals don't have to deal with.
I understand that trying to include too much is burdensome, but if the team would include a few infectious diseases that were known or referenced in the period, we would gain. They could modeled after specific illnesses or have specific effects and be given generic Attic names.
Syphilis, as a more complex example (in stages, as per many other traits)
I. Lesion - This man has developed an open sore in a noteworthy region of his body. It could be connected with his habitual carousing or the will of the gods. At any rate, he had better visit the disciples of Asklepios.
[Chance of acquiring this trait should be very small; increased by size of the city; increased by large trade; increased by womanising/adulterous traits; increased by taverns/brothels; decreased by reclusive traits]
[25% chance per season of developing into stage II]
II. Rashes, Ulcers, and Lesions - This man's outer body has begun to show horrible signs, reflecting a profound sickness within. He may have difficulty concentrating or a slight degree of organ failure.
-1 Command, -1 Management, -2 Influence, -15% movement
[50% chance per season of going into dormancy]
III. Sickness Subsided - Although it no longer progresses outwardly, the illness remains, dormant.
-1 Command, -1 Management, -1 Influence, -10% movement
[5% chance per season of progressing into A, B, or C]
IV A. Locomotor Ataxia - Shuffling and shambling, this man finds it difficult to walk or direct his body. He has become clumsy and hard to understand.
-2 Command, -2 Management, -2 Influence, -20% movement, -1 hit point
B. Ungrounded Mind - Insomnia, memory loss, and fainting spells disrupt his daily life. He can no longer be relied upon to manage his affairs or those of the kingdom.
-1 Command, -4 Management, -2 Influence, -10% movement, -1 hit point
C. Growths - Fleshy lumps grow unhindered on his bones, organs, and skin. His health is severely impaired and his countenance has grown terrifying.
-1 Command, -2 Management, -4 Influence, -15% movement, -2 hit points
Much more easily you could make broad classes, say, physically degenerative (-hp and movement) that might progress under forced march and never recover. Or leprosy.
Thanks, hope this is something to chew on.
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