Aetheric Consumption

While extremely rare, one can contract Aetheric Consumption from an afflicted in the later stages.

Aetheric Consumption is caused by overexposure to Aether, either in its original energy form or as Aetherite.

When this condition is first contracted, the afflicted will experience frequent headaches, as well as a dull but persistant electric tingling sensation throughout their body. As the condition progresses, the headaches become more persistant and painful, and the afflicted will experience a constant sensation that's described as simultaneously burning and electric. It's also at this point that the afflicted will become physically weaker, as if all of the excess Aether was burning them up from within. Additionally, any mages afflicted with this condition will find that their spellcasting is much more unstable, with spells becoming more likely to backfire. Near the end of this conditions progression and the Aetheric discharge that takes place at its conclusion, the afflicted are described as having a blueish glow in their eyes.

Once afflicted, the best way to treat this condition is to "bleed off" the excess Aether. This can typically be done done through the use of items designed to siphon Aether in the local environment, or, if the afflicted is a mage, burning it off through continuous spellcasting (though this comes with its own risks).

The further the condition progresses, the more unstable the Aether of the afflicted becomes, and the more their presence disrupts the Aether in their surroundings. If allowed to progress to its final stage, the accumulated Aether within the afflicted will burst forth from their body, invariably killing them and potentially causing damage to anything nearby.

While anyone can contract Aetheric Consumption, those who work around sources of raw Aether (particularly Aetherite miners) and members of species whose physiology is closely connected to Aether are the most susceptible.

The best way to avoid contracting Aetheric Consumption is to avoid any large concentrations of Aether or, failing that, use wards capable of mitigating the effects of Aether on the body.

Aetheric Consumption is seen as emblematic of the dangers associated with the increase in harvesting Aether, and the afflicted are often seen as walking time bombs, particularly if they've reached the later stages.