Induced Fragmentation

If the world can be fractured, so can the mind. - Honest Brewer, Alchemist

Overview

Induced fragmentation is an intentionally induced state of mind. The purpose of this state is to allow the mind to go beyond the boundaries of its own illusions to catch a glimpse of a larger reality. The condition can last for a night or a fortnight depending on the user's desires. It is called a fragmentation because the mind's eye does not interpret the induced condition in terms of linear time or logical order. As such, those who allow themselves to be induced into the condition describe seeing real events in other lands or at different points in time. That is assuming they are able to recall their strange visions in any appreciable detail.
There have been reported cases of those who have successfully predicting happenings (parts of the happenings at any rate) in lands they have never visited. These cases seem to be few, though it is understandable if many would not speak of their experience attempting to hide or deny what they know. This strange phenomena is enticing to those wanting to predict the future or to verify the past. This apparent journey across space and time is not restricted to the material plane. However, most do not report any meaningful meanings in their induced visions. Most remember being left dehydrated and with a headache.
To reach a state of induced fragmentation required a combination of Endov's Breaker, and a ritual.

Endov's Breaker

A potion known as Endov's Breaker is used in rituals that attempt to bring about Induced Fragmentation. The potion itself appears clear when still. When disturbed, it erupts into a kaleidoscope of vivid colors. As for its taste, some say that the taste in indescribable to those who have not taken it themselves.

The Ritual

The ritual surrounding induced fragmentation involves finding a quiet space, and then calming one's mind. Lighting incense is also a common part of the ritual. The type of incense is typically unimportant as long as it gains the approval of the one trying to achieve induced fragmentation.
The necessity of the ritual is in doubt in several circles of thought. Many believe that the effects of induced fragmentation come entirely from the potion, and that any acts surrounding its intake is ultimately frivolous. Others believe that the ritual is extremely important because the state of mind one is in entering fragmentation can greatly affect their perception of the experience.

Dangers

Consuming too much of Endov's Breaker or simply not preparing enough can result in a permanent state of Induced Fragmentation. It differs from a coma in that one's mind is not technically in a dream state. The few who have recovered from this dangerous condition while maintaining their sanity describe it as something akin to having one's mind trapped in a land they cannot understand. Because of this danger, several lands have sought to either ban the practice (including Endov's Breaker), or to exercise strict oversight of its use. These efforts are aided by the difficulty to produce Endov's Breaker not to mention that not many are willing to risk their sanity in exchange for a glance at the true nature of reality.

Type

Mental

Note(s) from the Archivists:

Has anyone here tried to induce this condition? - Archivist Enna
This was before I joined the guild, but I have. I remember nary a thing of it though and I have no intention of trying it again. - Archivist Savitri Thank you for being forthright about this, Savitri. - Archivist Taenya