Muddled

Introduction

The chaotic nature of the Muddle leaves permanent marks on the psyche of those that traverse it. Loss of memory and erratic behavior are the more minor manifestations of being Muddled but extreme cases lead to hallucinations and violent outbursts. Most Storm Faefolk appear to be immune to the mind warping properties found within the Muddle, but even their minds can be broken with enough exposure.

Cultural Impact

Because of how easily it is to become Muddled, most settlements within Caligus are extremely weary of outsiders. Inspections or even temporary detainment are not uncommon. Though not contagious, those affected my Muddled delusions often sabotage a settlements protections with Mootwards being a consistent target.
Even those that return from the Muddle are still lost.
— Common Caligian Aphorism

General Information

Type
Neurological
Origin
Magical
Cycle
Chronic, Acquired
Rarity
Uncommon

Exposure Effects

Any amount of time spent within the Muddle can have lasting affects on the brain but exposure of days or weeks is enough time to permanently and irreversibly change someone. Because of their violent, and often cannibalistic, tendencies, those that have had extreme exposure to the Muddle are often put out of their misery before they are able to harm others.

Minor Exposure

  • Loss of critical memories
  • Physical tremors
  • Disorganized and rambling speech
  • Auditory hallucinations

Major Exposure

  • Extreme memory loss
  • Drastic change in personality
  • Visual Hallucinations
  • Emotional instability

Extreme Exposure

  • Violent outbursts
  • Lack of empathy
  • Extremely impulsive behavior
  • Inability to comprehend pain

Comments

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Jul 5, 2024 12:42 by Dr Emily Vair-Turnbull

Scary. Even the brief exposure symptoms sound really nasty.   'Even those that return from the Muddle are still lost' I love this

Emy x
Explore Etrea
Aug 6, 2024 23:39 by Damion Otter

I am so glad the English language has the term "aphorism" that I absolutely did not know about until this article.


Primary author of the NobleDark, Fantasy setting Realms of Ravare.
Aug 5, 2024 14:23

the term "muddled" is kind of funny i dont know xD. Oh and the muddle itself is also pretty horrifying. great article!

With the gears of the mind turning everlong, see what they produce in times old and new alike! Ignotas, Where Fog Turns Into Steam
Aug 6, 2024 23:39 by Damion Otter

I wanted to make sure, that even though you are going into a psychotic breakdown, you at least feel pretty whimsical!


Primary author of the NobleDark, Fantasy setting Realms of Ravare.
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