When the Well Runs Dry

A strange occurrence is rapidly spreading among the Immortal peoples. Now the Immortals do not live forever, but boast long lives of 800 - 1,000 years. Yet in some a symptom of old age is appearing much earlier than it should. The drying up of one's magic does not happen to everyone in their elderly years, though it is listed as an uncommon possible symptom, similar to the stiffening of joints.

However, in the past 20 years many who have seen over half a millennium are experiencing their magic dry up. If not treated, a decade later old age sets in, though they should yet have a few hundred years in them. This does not seem to be limited to class, occupation, or skill, as Immortals of all walks of life have been affected.

Causes

The cause is unknown, but speculations are rampant. Loss of the old ways, changes in the air and the trees, increase in evil creatures. Even the possibility that an evil lord has placed a powerful curse. All these, and even wilder suggestions, are being considered seriously.

Symptoms

The first symptoms are tiredness and increase in sleep. Then magic becomes more difficult than it used to. At first it is just the hard spells, but over time even simple everyday spells become increasingly impossible. Finally one's magic dries up completely, to the point that it is undetectable.

A decade later, the loss of magic results in the onset of old age. Once a person has reached this stage, there is no chance of reversal.

Treatment

For the moment the best advice is to take a journey of reflection. Not a short one either. Healers recommend at least three years away from home. This has seen some success, though many object that it is too dangerous these days to take such a journey.

Affected Groups

Those affected are all between 500-700 years of age. Those highly skilled in magic are affected slightly more than the less skill, though the difference is negligible.

Type

Magical

Origin

Natural

Cycle

Chronic, Acquired

Rarity

Uncommon