Husking

The Living Dead

The condition known as "husking" and the resulting "husks" from the plight, is unique in that in can be contracted by mageborns, and the non-magically inclined alike.

Contraction

While the process of husking is irreversible, its onset is widely understood to be caused from extensive magical expulsion. In rare instances, this condition can effect those who have no magical aptitude whatsoever. This has led experts to believe that the ability to use magic is not necessarily inherited, but rather the ability to harness it accurately is. In the event that a Magical Catalyst is not present, or is far beyond the skill of its wielder, physical symptoms of husking are immediately present.

Symptoms

The afflicted will experience bleeding from orifices (commonly the nose and eyes), becoming lightheaded, and fainting spells. If caution is not taken and similar events are repeated, one will begin to lose fine motor control, the ability to vocalize, and eventually, brain death. If the afflicted were to progress to the final stages of husking, they will lose all sense of individuality, ability to communicate in any fashion, and is medically considered to be deceased, though normal bodily function is maintained.

Husks

If one is to reach the stage of brain death, all nutritional needs are seemingly satiated via the consumption of magic. While it seems that a husked individual can remain living strictly through the sources of ambient magic in nature catalysts, they will actively seek out stronger sources of magic. In an inexplicable case of lingering intelligence, husks will often form groups of what is seemingly "hunting" parties. It is unknown if husked individuals are capable of communicating with one another. In the event of a husk consuming vast amounts of magic, more than what the body is able to contain, biological decomposition begins. Those with advanced bodily decomposition may often be cannabilized by other husks, creating an ecological stability and primitive food chain.

"To become an apt mage, one must study not only the benefits, but also the consequences. Of which, there is none more severe than husking."

-From An Extensive Study of Magic Catalysts by the scholars of Marlme

Information

Rarity: Very Rare

Cure: N/A

Location: N/A

Observable? Yes

Contagious? No

Type

Magical