Mind-Fog

Nearly one in five people frequently experience Mindlessness, and almost everyone has been affected by this condition. Over-exhaustion is a key contributor to this condition. While the variables change, the common themes stand out. Forgetting to sleep, dehydration, a lack of proper nutrients, and ignoring proper rest can exacerbate these symptoms. Those who ride across the shattered steppes, trying to match the speed set by the Vampires and their unholy steeds, are often left exhausted, severely sleep-deprived, and undeniably weakened by their state. Students, especially among the Trel, struggle to maintain a proper rest schedule. For many, it becomes a token of their devotion and longing for knowledge. Yet, what good is this outward display of passion when their minds are too foggy to reason or read? Workers, especially those who toil deep into the night, struggle the most with this growing issue.

While it cannot be blamed for causing this state, the addictive substance known as Serpent's Oil has become a staple for many workers and students. Despite its illegal status, this energy-enhancing drink is carried by many in small flasks. The liquid is often sought out and saved for the excursions into the long hours awaiting them. Though it can be used in small doses without issue, it is a duplicitous substance, for the false bursts of energy are soon replaced with a crash, the mind dulling. Some become trapped in a seemingly endless cycle. The Serpent is relied upon to keep them up at night, and is the first drink their body craves in the morning. Drinking it throughout the day becomes necessary. Then, when they go to rest, they're unable to.

Common symptoms include, but are not limited to, an inability to focus, confusion, restlessness, and, if proper rest is not taken, severe irritability. Slipping between subjects, intrusive thoughts of self-doubt, headaches, mutterings, and mood swings are common signs that you, or someone you know, may need to rest.

Overindulgence in Serpent's Oil, or any similar substance, causes the mind to race. Without proper rest, the body is unable to function properly, and the mind cannot fully distinguish between reality and fantasy. Though the body slumps, the mind continues, overlooking any possible dangers. The mind will continue to ponder possibilities and potential futures, living through these dreams as though they were reality. Lone scouts have been recovered, fallen off their horses, living life in their heads alone, as the world spins around them, their heads never leaving the ground. Many encourage people to remain in small groups because of this occurrence.

While the temptation of foregoing sleep may be appealing, it comes at many risks. Students write gibberish, and businessmen have missed important deadlines and meetings, and some have been maimed by workers slipping into the Fog. Accidents can happen at a moment's notice. It is better to retire for the day and ensure a proper rest is taken, rather than risk personal health and endanger those around. To fall into the hands of the Outsiders due to exhaustion is completely preventable, though hundreds succumb to that eternal sleep yearly.

The best treatment is a good nights rest, and drinking lots of water. When being cared for, it's not uncommon for the people who've found them to remain nearby, as the slumbering individual will often remain completely motionless, dead to the world, for much longer than a person normally sleeps.

Nearly everyone who engages in a physically or mentally straining profession succumbs to one form of mindlessness or another. Certain factors, such as working late into the night or toiling during an extremely hot day, can accelerate the spread of this condition.