Feral Bloom

The effects of Feral Bloom only occur when a Beast folk consumes a pawpaw grape. This rare fruit is the only known source of the specific bacteria responsible for triggering the condition.  

Quick Info: Pawpaw Grape
The pawpaw grape is a teal-blue fruit native exclusively to the Gaia Islands. It grows on twisting Brown wooden vines that grows in tight, clustered bunches and is recognizable by its unique shape: three rounded lobes at one end that taper into a single point at the other end. That hanging from thin green tendrils at single point. The fruit is sweet in flavor and highly aromatic, making it a popular snack in regions where it naturally grows though Beast folk tend to avoid it once they learn its effects.

Feral Bloom dramatically improves taste and smell across all Beastfolk. Individuals who do not have adequate training, tolerance, or endurance are more likely to feel overwhelmed. The early symptoms include:

• Irritation to smells
• Persistent headaches
• Sensory migraines
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Difficulties processing faint or weak flavors
• Overstimulation gradually reduces smell sensitivity

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As the person eat Pawpaw Grape often, many people may lose the capacity to appreciate ordinary foods or detect typical fragrances unless the stimuli are extremely powerful.

To activate this effect, you only need to eat a small bit of fantastic; it all depends on the size of your body. Whereas bunnies folks and cats folks require little effort to be effective, wolf folks and bear folks require little more. The benefits of the pawpaw grape typically take 3 minutes to start and continue for an hour. However, the benefits last for up to 8 hours after the last grape is swallowed.

Species-specific reactions that live in the Gaia Islands

Bunny folk & Cat folk

These groups are especially vulnerable to Feral Bloom. Most people avoid pawpaw grapes totally since the heightened sensations are more likely to produce discomfort than benefit. They frequently get headaches and overstimulation, and they rarely eat the fruit.

Fox folk & Wolf folk

These Beastfolk occasionally deploy Feral Bloom on purpose, particularly in specialized hunting or reconnaissance squads. Their enhanced sense of smell enables them to follow prey, monsters, or people with remarkable accuracy. However, excessive use might weaken their normal senses over time, leading to obsessive behaviors such as deep inhaling or seeking out strong smells to keep focused. Their taste sensitivity is likewise impaired, making bland foods practically flavorless.

Bear folk

Bears employ the bacteria more selectively, particularly during celebratory feasts or gourmet occasions known as "Dens of Delight" or "Feasts of the Senses." In moderation, it improves their sense of flavor and texture. So they can enjoy the richer flavors and enlightenment of any food that has been prepared. However, excessive consumption can lead to reliance, making typical foods appear bland or uninteresting. When the urge becomes too intense, it can develop into a sort of taste addiction, necessitating withdrawal and resetting their palate over time.

Half Beast folk

When Beast Folk half-breeds eat Pawpaw grapes, they experience a variety of affects. Some people have a minor reaction that only enhances their smell or taste, whilst others may have responses that are as severe as their full blooded parent. However, in many half breeds, adverse symptoms such as headaches and sensory overload are more severe and faster acting.

Each person reacts differently. Some people adjust successfully, acquiring heightened sensations with just mild discomfort, while others experience devastating migraines or sensory spikes. Even with training, some half breeds find the effort and suffering too much to handle. In such circumstances, their bodies simply do not adapt, rendering the Pawpaw grape more of a punishment than a blessing.

Simple Rule: If You're Beastfolk, Don't Eat It.

If you've already eaten a Pawpaw grape, the best you can do is ride it out. Let it run its course through your system and manage the symptoms as best you can—headache remedies, nausea medicine, rest, and plenty of fluids. It's not pleasant, but you'll survive it… probably.