Labyrinthus

What is Labyrinthus?

Labyrinthus is the main 'magic' system in the world of How to Stop a War. Those afflicted with it are called 'Labyrinthites' and it is a condition that they are born with. Labyrinthus is named as such because it originated from the underground labyrinth connecting Nightshire and Witshire.

Some consider Labyrinthus to be the soul of the Labyrinthite, while others consider it a parasite. Its true nature is not known, although it seems to work to control the Labyrinthite as a puppet, similar to some real-world parasites that completely take over their host.

How does it work?

While Labyrinthus is often hereditary, it can also pop up with no warning. It is said that a child who is either very wanted or very unwanted at conception is likely to develop Labyrinthus, though this is only speculation.

Labyrinthus allows its host to produce crystalline shards, similar to fibreglass. It is not known exactly what the purpose is of this ability, but Labyrinthites are considered dangerous for it-- Labyrinthus can have adverse effects on the mental state of its host, causing them to lash out and injure or even kill people with these shards.

Can Labyrinthus be killed?

Labyrinthus can be killed when it interacts with a stronger magic, such as that of Oliver Beanel, who wields Old Magic. Sometimes, Labyrinthus can simply expire on its own as well. Unfortunately, this has dire consequences for the Labyrinthite, who will find themself slowly becoming apathetic yet easily provoked to violence as the Labyrinthus succumbs to rot. In their desperation to return to their past personality, they will often unintentionally hurt loved ones just to make themselves feel something at all. A Labyrinthite whose Labyrinthus has died is best put out of their misery-- it is considered impossible to reverse the rot.