Thaumatological Radiosis, aka Magical Radiation Poisoning

They were everywhere, and we thought the village was long abandoned. Our initial intention was to explore the area in hopes of finding some treasure, but to our horror, it wasn't empty! As the sun descended, we witnessed a dim glow moving through the deserted streets, accompanied by the haunting howls of pain that instilled true fear within us. They emerged from every corner, each a unique nightmare born from the twisted imagination of a devil. An unending parade of monstrous creatures had us surrounded, and they forced us into an old tavern. There was something intelligent guiding them, a cunning force I glimpsed in the darkness. It glowed with a sickly red hue, its black bones standing out against the eerie aura that surrounded it. In my heart, I knew this sinister presence led the monsters, taking pleasure in our fear and agony like a malevolent cat toying with a helpless mouse.
On the third night, our sorcerer attempted to cast a blast of magical ice at the glowing entity with black bones. To our disbelief, the thing simply opened its mouth and devoured our friend, as if catching a snack tossed its way! In an instant, it waved a hand, and an inexplicable force tore apart the barricades we had constructed with doors and tables. Whoever stumbles upon this journal, heed my warning: leave this cursed island immediately or come prepared with an army, for the malevolence that has befallen this place has transformed it into a living hell!
-Last entry of the Journal of Ajax Higgson, explorer and Company Man in the service of the Free Isles' "Green Hawks."

Transmission & Vectors

There are four primary sources and documented sources of Thaumatological Radiosis, there may be others yet unknown.
Exposure to Azurtung, Azurtung Waste, and Azurtung Byproducts: Azurtung, an enigmatic and dangerous magical ore, can emit hazardous magical radiation. Mining and handling Azurtung, its waste, or byproducts can lead to magical radiation poisoning.
Exposure to Energy Released by Damaged or Overcharged Leylines: Leylines, natural channels of magical energy, can become damaged or overcharged, releasing potent magical energy. Exposure to this uncontrolled energy can result in magical radiation poisoning.
Ingestion of "Aura Water": Deep below the ground, a mysterious and transformative process turns magical energy into a liquid-like substance known as "Aura Water." Ingesting this substance can lead to magical radiation poisoning.
Arcane Experimentation and Forced Exposure to Pure Condensed Magical Energy: Arcane experimentations involving pure condensed magical energy can be dangerous. Forced exposure to this potent energy source can cause magical radiation poisoning in individuals.

Causes

The primary and sole cause of Thaumatological Radiosis is exposure to magical radiation. This exposure can occur through various sources, including Azurtung ore, damaged Laylines, or "Aura Water." The dangers of Thaumatological Radiosis lie not only in the obvious, large doses of magical radiation that lead to instant recognition of symptoms but also in the insidious accumulation of deadly magical energy in the system over time.
Subtle Exposure: In cases of subtle exposure, victims may not immediately recognize the presence of magical radiation in their bodies. Small doses of magical energy may accumulate gradually, leading to a slow and potentially lethal build-up of radiation. As the symptoms remain elusive in the early stages, individuals may underestimate the severity of the condition, delaying crucial intervention.
Acute Exposure: Conversely, acute exposure to larger doses of magical radiation results in more instant and evident symptoms. However, these cases carry a higher risk of fatality and mutation due to the overwhelming influx of magical energy into the body.
Accumulation of Deadly Energy: Regardless of the exposure method, the underlying danger of Thaumatological Radiosis lies in the accumulation of deadly magical energy within the victim's system. This excess magical radiation disrupts the body's natural balance and can lead to a cascade of debilitating effects.

Symptoms

Thaumatological Radiosis manifests with a range of alarming and insidious symptoms, indicating the onset of magical radiation poisoning. The severity and progression of these symptoms can vary based on the level and duration of exposure to magical energies. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent irreversible damage. The symptoms may include:
Glowing Blue Rashes: One of the hallmark signs of Thaumatological Radiosis is the appearance of glowing blue rashes on the skin. These rashes emanate a faint, eerie luminescence, indicating the presence of magical energy coursing through the afflicted individual. They also cause pain and discomfort akin to severe burns to the victim.
Fatigue and Weakness: Victims of Thaumatological Radiosis often experience profound fatigue and weakness. The excessive magical energy within their bodies disrupts their natural energy flow, leaving them drained and lethargic.
Uncontrolled Magical Emissions: As the condition progresses, affected individuals may involuntarily release bursts of magical energy, causing minor magical disruptions in their surroundings. These uncontrolled emissions may manifest as sudden flickering lights, objects levitating, or temporary enchantments in their vicinity or even stranger effects.
Nausea and Dizziness: Exposure to magical radiation can cause feelings of nausea, dizziness, and disorientation. The afflicted may struggle to maintain balance and experience spells of vertigo.
Distorted Magical Attunement: Thaumatological Radiosis interferes with an individual's natural connection to magical energies. Spellcasters may find their spells becoming unpredictable or uncontrollable, leading to unintended magical effects or failures in spellcasting. These surges of magical energy have been likened to areas of primal and wild magic where known magic manifests in chaotic and dangerous ways.
Unexplained Aches and Pains: Victims often report mysterious aches and pains throughout their bodies. These discomforts may be localized or diffuse, further adding to their misery.
Mutations and Deformities: In severe cases or when left untreated, Thaumatological Radiosis always leads to grotesque chaotic mutations and physical deformities in the affected individuals. These mutations can be benifical, fatal or utterly strange. There have been docutments of people growing physicaly strong, being able to fly, their skin turning inside out, their body entering an advanced state of Catabolysis, or one might grow a third ear on their forehead or find themselves able to taste sounds.
Loss of Cognitive Function: Advanced stages of Thaumatological Radiosis may lead to a loss of cognitive function. Victims may struggle with memory, reasoning, and comprehension, resulting in confusion and disorientation.
Eldritch Abominations: The most extreme cases of Thaumatological Radiosis result in the transformation of victims into Eldritch Abominations. These unfortunate souls become nightmarish creatures, completely detached from their former selves, driven by an insatiable urge to unleash chaos and destruction. This occurs provided mutation and deteriorating health do not prove fatal or if the dose or magiical radiation was in the extreme.

Treatment

Early intervention is critical in treating Thaumatological Radiosis, as the condition can lead to debilitating mutations and permanent damage if left unchecked. However, securing the right treatment can be a challenging task, and many unfortunate victims are unable to access timely assistance.
Dispel Magic: Skilled spellcasters equipped with the necessary knowledge and magical tools may attempt to dispel the excess magical energy within the affected individual. This process aims to neutralize the radiation and halt the progression of the condition. The success of dispelling largely depends on the proficiency of the spellcaster and the severity of the radiation exposure.
Anti-Magic Zone: A powerful and specialized enchantment that creates an anti-magic zone or magical dead zone can provide a temporary respite from Thaumatological Radiosis symptoms. Within this zone, the harmful effects of magical radiation are suppressed, offering relief to those who seek refuge within its boundaries. However, individuals must remain within the zone to sustain its protective effects.
Syphoning and Drainage: In rare cases, Arcanivores, magical creatures with the ability to consume magic, or specific magics designed to drain away or steal magical power can be used to syphon away the excess magical energy responsible for Thaumatological Radiosis. This approach is challenging to achieve and requires precise knowledge and the presence of suitable magical beings or spells, making it an unlikely cure for most cases.
The unfortunate reality is that these treatments are rarely available in time for many victims of Thaumatological Radiosis. Due to the scarcity of skilled spellcasters, the complexity of creating anti-magic zones, and the rarity of Arcanivores, individuals often suffer debilitating and potentially fatal mutations before receiving the necessary treatment.
Efforts are ongoing to improve accessibility to treatment options and increase the availability of skilled magical practitioners capable of handling Thaumatological Radiosis cases. Additionally, research into more practical and widespread treatment approaches remains a priority in the quest to alleviate the suffering caused by this mysterious and deadly magical radiation poisoning. Until then, swift action and vigilance are essential in minimizing the devastating consequences of Thaumatological Radiosis on those affected by its malevolent grasp.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals affected by Thaumatological Radiosis is often bleak and fraught with peril. Without prompt and specialized intervention to remove the excess magical energy, the condition can lead to severe consequences, including mutation and a weakening of the host's immune system. Even if the magical radiation is eventually removed, many victims are already too far gone to survive the ordeal.
Severe Cases and Debilitating Mutations: For the majority of victims, especially those exposed to larger doses of magical radiation, the outlook is grim. The failure to remove the excess magical energy promptly can lead to a cascade of debilitating mutations and physical deformities. These mutations are just as often nightmarish, or outright fatal as they are useful or harmless.
Weakening of the Immune System: Thaumatological Radiosis also weakens the host's immune system. This not only exacerbates the effects of the condition itself but also leaves the victim vulnerable to other illnesses and infections. As a result, the chances of survival diminish significantly.
Few Beneficial Outcomes: While a fortunate few may receive the necessary magical and medical attention required to counteract Thaumatological Radiosis, such cases are in the minority. Even among those who receive timely treatment, full recovery is not guaranteed. Some individuals may be left with lasting effects, impairments, or lingering magical disturbances.
Transformation into Eldritch Abominations: For victims of acute Thaumatological Radiosis, a distressing fate awaits. Unable to halt the relentless progression of the condition, these individuals are doomed to undergo a slow and agonizing transformation into Eldritch Abominations. As they lose their former selves to the malevolent influence of magical radiation, they become nightmarish creatures, driven by a primal urge to unleash chaos and destruction.
The gravity of Thaumatological Radiosis demands an urgent focus on prevention, early detection, and effective treatment. Timely intervention by skilled spellcasters and access to specialized anti-magic measures are crucial in improving the prognosis for those exposed to magical radiation. The world must strive to develop and implement comprehensive strategies to protect individuals from the horrors of Thaumatological Radiosis and seek to reduce its devastating impact on lives and communities.

Sequela

From the confidential records of the The High Guild of the Arcane Arts:
In our relentless pursuit to comprehend the enigmatic Thaumatological Radiosis and its direst consequences, the High Guild has meticulously documented the final stages and the various forms of transformation that may arise. Although Eldritch Abominations are the most widely known outcomes, they are not the sole form victims may take, and a broader understanding of these possibilities is crucial.
Eldritch Abominations: The most common end result suffered by people with little to no magical sensitivity. Mindless, brutal and seemingly driven to destroy anything in their path. No two are quite alike but are all mutated beyond comprehension, physically deadly and with natural weapons be it razor edged spines, massive claws or even brutal boney knobs and thick natural armor ranging from Chitinous skin, scales, rocky growths or just thick hide.
Mana-Spectere: Spellcasters afflicted with acute Thaumatological Radiosis may undergo a transformation into Mana-Wraiths. These eerie beings possess translucent, glowing skin and organs, while their blackened bones become their most visible feature. Despite misconceptions, they are not undead; instead, they are living arcanivores, craving both magical energy and the life forces of living beings. Unlike typical Eldritch Abominations, Mana-Specters retain enough of their former minds to exhibit exceptional cunning and can unleash torrents of raw magical force along with their deadly draining touch. They often act as pack leaders for other abominations, displaying strategic and dangerous tactics.
Arcane-Verdigris: The least-discussed outcome involves plants experiencing acute Thaumatological Radiosis. These mutated plants transform into mobile masses of roots, fungus, tree trunks, and gnarled vines adorned with sickly flowers. Arcane-Verdigris becomes fearsome predators in the wilderness, displaying brutal and near-unstoppable carnivorous tendencies.
Animal-Abominations: Creatures that succumb to acute Thaumatological Radiosis and die from the condition take on twisted forms, known as Animal-Abominations. Driven by primal instincts and feral ferocity, these beings often retain the deadly natural weapons and instincts of their original species. Whether as small as a mouse or as large as a mastodon, these Animal-Abominations form symbiotic relationships with Arcane-Verdigris and frequently exhibit their base species' advantous natural traits.
It is imperative to broaden our comprehension of Thaumatological Radiosis and its diverse outcomes, as this knowledge equips us to face these nightmarish challenges more effectively. The relentless pursuit of understanding is our duty as practitioners of the arcane arts, as it will ultimately guide us in devising countermeasures and defenses against the horrors that this arcane radiation can bring forth upon the world.

Affected Groups

All Living Beings: All living beings, regardless of their magical affinity or resistance, can be affected by Thaumatological Radiosis. However, the severity of the effects may vary based on an individual's magical resilience and exposure to magic.
Undead and Constructs: Undead and constructs, being entities with supernatural origins, are not entirely immune to Thaumatological Radiosis but experience only minor disruptions in their supernatural nature. They can handle exposure to the radiation better than non-magical beings but may still be affected to some extent.
Magically Resistant Species: Magically resistant species possess a natural resistance to the effects of Thaumatological Radiosis. They can handle larger doses of magical radiation safely and for prolonged periods without severe consequences.
Arcanivores: Arcanivores, a special category of beings that can consume magic, are entirely immune to Thaumatological Radiosis. Not only are they not harmed by the radiation, but they can also draw sustenance from it, just like any other type of magic. Interviews with certain eldrich beings have revealed that most consider this food source to be akin to tastining extremely "spicey".
Spellcasters and Magic Attuned Individuals: Spellcasters and individuals who are attuned to magical energy due to their magical training or nature show some resiliency to Thaumatological Radiosis. Their exposure to magic may grant them a level of protection against the worst effects of the radiation. Though documents seem to indicate this is a minimal form of resistance.
Non-Magical Species: Non-magical species, especially those whose bodies have not been exposed or attuned to the flow of magic, are the most at risk. They lack inherent protection against Thaumatological Radiosis, making them vulnerable to its harmful effects. All cases of mundane beings exposure has been rapid and sevre.

Hosts & Carriers

Broad Impact on Lifeforms: Thaumatological Radiosis's capability to affect nearly any lifeform makes it a pervasive and ever-present threat in your fantasy RPG world. Players and characters must be vigilant as they encounter a wide range of beings, each with varying levels of resilience to the magical radiation.
Potential Carrier Transformation: Severe exposure to Thaumatological Radiosis can transform some victims into carriers of the deadly energy. These carriers become sources of contagion, radiating the harmful radiation to others in a similar fashion. This development raises the stakes, as characters may unknowingly become carriers and inadvertently spread the ailment to others, creating a tense and unpredictable atmosphere in the game.

Prevention

In the face of the widespread threat posed by Thaumatological Radiosis, various prevention measures have been developed to safeguard individuals from exposure to magical radiation. Although not yet fully embraced by all, these preventive strategies show promise in mitigating the risks associated with the condition.
Lead Shielding: As demonstrated, lead serves as an effective barrier against Thaumatological Radiosis. Special suits of cumbersome lead armor have been crafted to protect individuals who work in high-risk areas like mines containing Azurtung ore or locations near damaged Laylines. Lead-lined clothing and accessories provide an added layer of protection, reducing the risk of exposure during tasks where direct contact with magical radiation is likely.
Magical Wards and Enchantments: Magical wards and effects designed to grant resistance to magical energy have proven beneficial in preventing Thaumatological Radiosis. Warded amulets and rings, imbued with protective spells, can offer individuals an additional measure of security against the harmful effects of magical radiation. These enchanted accessories are valuable assets for spellcasters and others who frequently interact with magical energies.
Education and Awareness: Raising awareness about the dangers of Thaumatological Radiosis is crucial in promoting prevention. Educating communities, particularly those residing in proximity to potential sources of magical radiation, about the symptoms, risks, and preventive measures can empower individuals to protect themselves.
Regulation and Safety Protocols: Implementing regulations and safety protocols in mining operations and areas near damaged Laylines is essential to minimize the risk of exposure to magical radiation. Stringent guidelines for handling Azurtung ore and other magical sources can prevent accidental releases and protect workers and nearby communities.
Containment and Quarantine: In cases of localized outbreaks or accidental exposure to Thaumatological Radiosis, containment measures and quarantine protocols can prevent further spread. Rapid isolation of affected individuals and the establishment of designated quarantine areas can mitigate the risk of larger-scale outbreaks.
Research and Development: Continuous research and development in the field of Thaumatological Radiosis prevention are crucial for identifying new protective measures and refining existing ones. Advancements in lead shielding technology, magical wards, and enchantments could lead to more practical and widely accessible preventive solutions.
While some individuals and communities may remain skeptical or unaware of the preventive measures, the ongoing efforts to combat Thaumatological Radiosis are essential to curbing its impact and protecting the population from the perils of magical radiation exposure. As knowledge and understanding of the condition grow, the hope is that preventive measures will become more widespread, contributing to a safer and more resilient society in the face of this mystical menace.

Epidemiology

The spread of Thaumatological Radiosis through the population occurs as a result of direct exposure to the sources of magical radiation. The starting points for outbreaks are most often locations or events where people come into contact with these sources, such as mining operations, areas near damaged Laylines, or sites with "Aura Water." The more people exposed to these sources, the greater the potential for the illness to spread within the population especially if they undergo certain specific mutations due to exposure.

History

For the majority of history, Thaumatological Radiosis was regarded as an exceedingly rare affliction, with only a few scattered and documented cases spanning over ten thousand years of recorded history. However, a momentous turning point occurred with the cataclysmic event known as the The Land Shatter. This devastating event altered the landscape of the world and led to a significant increase in the prevalence of Thaumatological Radiosis.
The cataclysm unleashed untold destruction, causing the Laylines, the natural channels of magical energy, to burst and suffer damage. In the aftermath, a newfound substance, Azurtung ore, emerged as a byproduct. This shift in the arcane currents and the creation of Azurtung ore triggered a multiplier effect, leading to an exponential surge in Thaumatological Radiosis cases.
During the cataclysm, countless individuals, animals, and plant life were exposed to the volatile magical energies unleashed when the Laylines of the Terigoth burst around them. The Broken Isles, the epicenter of the Land Shatter, became a focal point where understanding of Thaumatological Radiosis deepened through sheer numbers of unfortunate beings affected by the radiation.
The tragic reality is that the world's comprehension of Thaumatological Radiosis evolved not through scholarly pursuits or careful observations but due to the sheer magnitude of poor souls who were, and continue to be, exposed to the condition in the wake of the Land Shatter. This unprecedented increase in cases has led to a shift in how societies perceive and respond to the ailment, forever altering the course of history and marking the Broken Isles as a crucible of knowledge about this once-rare and now-pervasive affliction.

Cultural Reception

Across the world, societies share a chilling perspective on those afflicted with Thaumatological Radiosis, viewing them with dread comparable to that reserved for plague-ridden lepers. The chaotic mutations and inherent dangers of the condition lead to a cruel fate for many unfortunate victims, as panic-stricken communities shun them. Only a courageous few dare to offer care and compassion to these afflicted souls, while numerous tales recount instances of entire towns being abandoned, individuals banished, or even buried alive in a desperate attempt to shield others from potential horrors caused by the arcane mutation.
The pervasive cultural fear surrounding Thaumatological Radiosis results in a tragic consequence - many of those infected are denied the crucial care they require. Despite the potential for symptom reduction and relief through proper treatment, the overwhelming stigma casts a shadow on their chances of receiving the help they desperately need. As a result, numerous lives remain untouched by the healing hand of compassion, adding to the tragedy that unfolds in the face of this relentless and unforgiving ailment.

Type

Magical

Origin

Magical

Cycle

Chronic, Acquired

Rarity

Rare