The Pale is a metaphysical force that is usually conceptualized as a white or red mist. It has been observed to be most concentrated on a latitudinal axis centered on
Edia, where it colors a several hundred-mile wide corridor of ocean red.
Locations
The Pale is most thickly concentrated around Edia, where the material headwaters of the river Styx is thought to begin, but is found in a number of other areas, albeit in much smaller quantities. One such example is in the lake near modern-day
Seito.
Effects
The Pale induces a heavy psychological strain on those within it, and it is common for lengthy exposure to produce introspective hallucinations and visions, reoccurring dreams, and in severe cases, stupor, insanity, or even complete incapacitation. However, these adverse effects are possible to mitigate with sufficient psychic preparation. It is thought by scholars that it is possible to build a tolerance to its effects through repeat exposure as well. The Pale has been shown to seemingly have a stronger effect on undead creatures.
The mechanism of action for the Pale is unknown, but many scholars have noted its connection to memories and the afterlife. Common motifs in the hallucinations and visions of those effected by it are visions of the past and even one's own ancestors. In some rare cases, visions originating from the Pale have been anecdotally reported to predict the future, although this claim is disputed.
Comments