Rakro: Short-Tall

Rakro derives from a very specific chemical named kakoyi rakloia found in certain plants in Retrougo, which is one of the reasons why Kauaru are rarely found that far north. It substitutes for a certain high-intensity growth hormone found in Kauaru. Once this chemical is absorbed into the bloodstream, certain receptors hardwired into the Kauaru's body take that as a sign to grow more of that same chemical and to expand cellular production.

The problem is that certain vital organs (namely the heart, liver, and kidneys) require gene treatment and/or an entirely separate growth hormone in order to match the growth of the rest of the body. While normal growth hormone activates both, kakoyi rakloia only activates the former. As a result, the affected Kauaru cannot sustain its massive size. In the vast majority of cases, the victim dies either from a ruptured heart and subsequent internal bleeding or a heart attack.

Kauaru that are afflicted with rakro have unimpeded growth over the course of a week, doubling or even tripling in size. They feel sluggish and faint on a regular basis. If the Kauaru survives a week's growth, the second week is considerably toned down. Kauaru that manage to survive three weeks will continue to have heart problems, perhaps even eventually fatal heart problems, but they have years to live rather than days.

There are no hearts in all Wouraiya that are large enough to maintain the newly acquired proportions, let alone the logistical means to transplant them. However, lying the afflicted down and keeping them in a state of permanent rest has been shown to alleviate stress on the heart. Certain foods provide less stress to the liver, and the patient's diet is regulated strictly to those.