Icarus Syndrome

Icarus Syndrome is an illness seen in Magi, usually beginning a year or two after the first signs of their powers. It is a debilitating illness that can rob a Magi of the chance at a normal life amongst humanity, and often results in the sufferer's incarceration or death by accident or suicide.

‘Icarus Syndrome’, they call it. The stronger a Magi’s power, the more they lose control: of their emotions, their lives... They become monsters. Or at least, that’s what people would have you believe. It’s easy enough to do: blow up the stories about the ones who go nuts or destroy shit, then bury the ones who never did anything wrong. Enough propaganda and the people believe anything they’re spoon-fed.

Causes

Though studies of the illness are limited, it is suggested that the presence of magic force, or Éla, in the body sends shockwaves to the brain resulting in loss of control and extreme physical and emotional responses. This is further backed by MRI scans showing flare-ups of activity in varying areas of the Limbic System during the use of the individual's powers.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person, however the following symptoms have been observed in average cases:

• Recurrent behavioural outburst representing a failure to control aggressive impulses
• A pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships
• Impulsive, self-damaging behaviour including but not restricted to: self-harm, drug and alcohol abuse, and suicide
• Intense and often out of proportion emotional reactions to day-to-day events

Treatment

There is currently no cure for Icarus Syndrome, however treatment has been observed including:

• Suppression of the patient's Éla either via injections of blessed water or warded apparel to be worn at all times
• Inpatient care in an Éla-warded facility

Cultural Reception

Public opinion of the illness is generally negative. Religious forces see sufferers as 'cursed' and the general public err on the side of caution. Many young people developing Éla will find themselves socially ostracised for fear of them developing the syndrome, and many medical practitioners refuse to treat patients with this illness.

Type

Supernatural

Origin

Magical

Cycle

Chronic, Acquired & Congenital

Rarity

Rare