The Pillbug Parasite is named not because of its appearance, but because of what it does to its victims. This creature possesses many tentacle-like proboscises (i.e. tubular mouth parts) that reach into the limbs of its dragon host in search of food. They then attempt to coil back to the body of the parasite, causing the dragon’s form to contort and curl up, like a pillbug.

The parasite lives off of its own food stores and fat deposits for several days or even weeks after finding a dragon host, as they don’t immediately recognize the dragon’s body as edible. By the time the parasite begins to damage the host, it has coiled around several vital organs and is impossible to remove safely. Life-saving operations become just as dangerous as leaving the parasite in the host. However, a recent treatment has been found.

Slash first approached his doctor about a twinge in his elbow, which he was afraid would make hunting difficult. The doctor tried several treatments, but nothing worked. When the twinge worsened and spread, the doctor finally resorted to exploratory surgery. He found two slimy, black proboscises coiled around Slash’s muscle. The doctor cut the tentacles and removed them from Slash’s arm. After receiving positive feedback and consent from the patient, the doctor repeated the removal on the other limbs, and the neck and tail. Though Slash has to get the surgery redone every few years or so, he’s incredibly grateful to be alive.

Lore/Layout by @Bibbit
From @Xayxayx