Glintrot
Glintrot is a bioluminescent saturation disorder that occurs when the body absorbs excessive, unbalanced crystal energy from lumicrysts or crystal-derived foods, particularly unrefined Shardflame Salt or immature stalks of the plant. The magical minerals begin to accumulate in the bloodstream and tissues, causing visible symptoms and erratic physical effects. It is most common among young harvesters, street vendors, or ritual participants who sneak raw stalks before they’ve been ritually stabilized or “cool-cooked.”
Causes
A rare physiological condition caused by overconsumption of raw or improperly aged lumicryst crystal-vegetables.
Symptoms
- Thin, glowing lines appear beneath the skin, especially along the forearms, neck, and around the eyes. They pulse with light during strong emotions or physical exertion.
- Fine, glittering mineral flecks exude from the pores, often mistaken for glitter or dust.
- The constant taste of cold metal or ozone in the mouth, even without eating.
- Sudden bursts of light interrupt peripheral vision—harmless but disorienting.
- In magically sensitive individuals, Glintrot can cause mild spell-bleed, where latent magic is unintentionally discharged (e.g., candles lighting by accident, water briefly freezing to touch).
Treatment
- Glowroot Tea: A bitter infusion made from boiled mature lumicryst roots neutralizes excess mineral energy.
- Salt Fasting: No crystal-based foods for one lunar cycle; patients eat earth-grown tubers and grounding mushrooms instead.
- Shadow Baths: Immersion in mineral-darkened water (usually from Lake Umberdeep) helps draw out excess light energy.
- Moonshrouds: Wearing enchanted, light-dampening robes woven from “dusk-silk” to prevent overstimulation.
Cultural Reception
In some regions, mild Glintrot is seen as a sign of “divine favor” or “lakeborn vitality,” especially if the glowlines appear in symmetrical patterns. Others view it as a reckless illness, a punishment for disrespecting the harvest cycle or ritual taboos.
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