Tax
We knew the burden would be heavy, yet we could have never guessed the extent.
Magic in the world affects everyone in some way. Those that live and grow old know this best. The elderly become Taxed; their bodies physically changed by the magic surrounding them for decades. Some feel the symptoms of growing old in the World harsher than others and seek out death as a release from the unrelenting pain.
Causes
Developed over time. A consequence of living past the average age of 45 in a world rampant with magic.
Symptoms
General symptoms include:
- sustained and constant pain throughout the body
- stiff muscles and/or joints
- nausea and/or vomiting
- permanently faster heart and breathing rate
- fertility problems
Symptoms and Effects by Region
| Grewlheyde | grey skin, faint pulse, rigid joints (near paralysis) |
| Gulgrennjor (North) | dusty skin, low boy fat, fragile bones |
| Gulgrennjor (South) | bark-like skin, fungal growths, bushy or mossy hair |
| Ildsletten | hot body temperature(enough for light steam), mottled skin, baldness |
| Isfeljor | cold body temperature (enough for ice to form), dense bones, albinism |
| Klipafand | carapace formations, darkvision, mucosy skin |
Treatment
There is no treatment for the physical changes caused by the Tax. However, poultices and medicines are used to ease other symptoms, such as pain and stiff joints.
Depending on the symptoms and how severe they are, the affected may request a mercy death.
Prognosis
The affected will show subtle signs of change, related to the region they live in. These symptoms will grow stronger over time until death.
Affected Groups
Adults over the age of 45, on average. People living in harsher climes or working in labor-intensive fields are more prone to Tax, even at younger ages.
Cultural Reception
Treated with respect and empathy. A sure sign that the affected person has lived a long and hard life.
Type
Physiological
Origin
Natural
Rarity
Common
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