Nir'va

Together, we stand in thy presence and initiate the rite of Nir'va, praying that thy endless clarity and peace shall be extended unto us.

Nir'va is a state of physical euphoria and magical enlightenment induced by a hallucinogenic drug found in some cooler climates of the world. Though it bears resemblance to the side-effects of more common narcotic substances out there, this one is notable for how it affects the Light Domain Magic of its users. It is known for temporarily enhancing the magical abilities of the wielder and giving them vivid visions (some of which come true). Due to this effect Nir'va is often intentionally induced by practicing members of more than a few cults, solitary magicians, and even in a few major religions.

Transmission & Vectors

The transmission of this condition is through inhalation of a specific substance made by mixing certain berries found in the cooler climates of northern Alvana. When heated or burned, the recipe turns into a noxious vapor that induces Nir'va depending on the amount inhaled. However, it is difficult to contract it without intentionally using it, as it has a telltale odor that is easy to identify and avoid.

Symptoms

The primary effect of entering a state of Nir'va is that it temporarily enhances your magical abilities and arcane intelligence, allowing the user to see things that cannot ordinarily be seen and cast spells they normally couldn't cast. This effect often manages to manifest itself through 'visions' induced by the hallucinogenic properties of the drug that causes Nir'va. Not much study has been done into the matter, as it fairly difficult to come by outside of the religious groups that use it, but anecdotal evidence claims at least some of these visions often come true.
However, it also comes with some physical downsides, namely withdrawal symptoms for addicts and some muscular degeneration. Though both of these are easily cured through the use of magic, for individuals without access to healing magic it can quickly result in physical decline and eventually heart disease.
It is also known to be extremely dangerous for Undead to enter Nir'va, as it is intrinsically tied to Light domain magic. This can rapidly worsen the severity of their condition and, with repeated exposure, even lead to death. Some religious and cultist groups have exploited it. Since in most of the world anti-undead discrimination is coded into law, Nir'va can be used to easily discover undead individuals attempting to conceal their identity. It can also be used as a method of torture. After exposure to Nir'va, the side-effects on the individual are usually permanent.

Prognosis

Luckily for those who cannot tolerate its physical effects and unlucky for those seeking enlightenment, Nir'va usually lasts only a few hours before its effects fade. However, it has about a 62% chance of becoming addictive.

Type

Magical

Origin

Engineered

Cycle

Short-term

Rarity

Rare

Affected Species

• Avani