Rain madness is the slang term given almost universally to the physical and psychological effects of prolonged exposure to rain. Regionally other terms are less commonly used, such as 'Rain fear', 'Storm rage' or 'Rain State'. There is no formal term.
While no scientific studies have been played out on what exactly causes the reaction, it's believed to be airborne toxins with rapid absorption through the skin. Rain madness is highly dangerous, and often fatal, effects onset quickly, but also wear off with equal speed. There is no known variables for predicting how quickly fatal levels of exposure to rain will cause death in any individual, adding to the risks in braving expose to rain.
While Rain madness is nearly always fatal, there are rare cases of survivors from prolonged exposure. These lucky people unfortunately walk away with an extreme sensitivity to the effects afterwards, leaving them unable to take another expose to the rain from that point onward. Tolerance to the effects can be built up to very small degrees, however it is not a common practice to brave the effects to prompt this.
Asini are capable of handling larger periods of rain exposure compared to humans, this is likely due to their capacity to heal at higher rates of speed, potentially fighting off the early effects for longer.
- Early Effects.
- Onset in under ten minutes, but can delay up to an hour in some individuals.
- Increased heart rate. Difficulty focusing, or communicating.
- Paranoia or panicked behaviors may start during this period.
- Hallucinations are common toward the end of the early onset symptoms.
- Intermittent Effects.
- Extremely heighten heart rate, almost incapable of keeping logical trains of thought. Likened to extreme panic attacks in symptoms.
- Aggression or irrational actions aim toward both friends and strangers.
- If alone, panic may prompt individuals to flee without regard to terrain for dangers nearby.
- Fatal Effects.
- Feelings of paranoia and fear may be turned on oneself, suicide from Rain madness is common.
- Overstress to heart and lungs may lead to cardiac arrest.
- Injury from falls, collisions, or attacks from others under the effects of Rain madness.
Mythology:
- Feathers from the Rula species is believed to repel the effects of rain for short periods. Capes, cloaks and charms made from Rula feathers are commonly given to those traveling, in hopes of extending the time they have to seek shelter from rain.
- Prayers used to help ward off rain during longer travels usually include the burning of Rula feathers, along with a small amount of blood, and salts.
- Ashwing are said to show up to help warn travelers of incoming storms.