The History of the Blight

Learn about the History of the Blight in 1384 Ex Voto. Understand the origins and consequences of the encroaching corruption affecting the world.

The Blight, a creeping corruption that has plunged Medieval Italy into chaos, is not a natural phenomenon but a malevolent force with a dark and ancient history. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but ancient texts speak of a celestial event, a 'Starfall' that occurred centuries before the current turmoil. It is believed that fragments of a corrupted celestial body rained down upon the land, seeding the earth with a virulent plague that twisted flora, fauna, and even the very souls of men. This corruption manifests as a physical decay, turning living beings into grotesque, aggressive husks known as the Blight-ridden. The Blight-ridden Soldiers, a common enemy encountered early in the game, are former soldiers and peasants twisted by this insidious force, their minds lost to the primal urge to spread the corruption.

The Blight's influence is not merely physical; it also affects the spiritual and mental well-being of those exposed. Prolonged exposure can lead to madness, paranoia, and a complete loss of self, as seen in the behavior of the 'Hollow Knights' who roam the desolate landscapes. The Blight feeds on despair and fear, growing stronger in areas where suffering is most prevalent. This is why regions like the 'Sunken Monastery' and the 'Whispering Caves' are particularly infested. The Blight's ultimate goal appears to be the complete assimilation of all life into its corrupted form, creating a desolate, lifeless world in its image. The 'Starfall' event is theorized to have been orchestrated or influenced by darker entities, seeking to destabilize the world and pave the way for their dominion.

Understanding the history of the Blight is crucial for Aeta's quest. It explains the nature of her enemies and the pervasive atmosphere of dread. Certain items, like the 'Sunstone Shards,' are believed to possess properties that can temporarily ward off the Blight's influence, making them invaluable for exploration in heavily corrupted areas. The Blight's spread is not uniform; areas with a higher concentration of suffering and despair are more dangerous. Players may notice that certain enemies, like the 'Abyssal Cleric,' seem to actively channel or amplify the Blight's power, making them priority targets to weaken its hold on a region. The lore suggests that the Blight's ultimate source might be tied to a specific location or artifact, a key objective for Aeta to uncover.