Lore:Aurora

Aurora is the lifeblood of Neon, and anyone that disagrees is either delusional or a liar —Owen Dexler

Aurora is a psychotropic drug created by the Xenofresh Corporation. Aurora is illegal throughout the Settled Systems, except for the city of Neon. The drug was created after the discovery of Chasmbass, a fish with psychotropic properties on the fishing platform that would eventually become Neon. After Xenofresh realized the potential, they repurposed the city's focus from fishing to drug tourism.

Effects

Aurora stimulates the neural circuits in the brain, specifically targeting the neurotransmitter serotonin in the prefrontal cortex. This results in significant sensory hallucinations, both auditory and visual, which can be highly intense and vivid. Users often describe a profound alteration of their perception of reality, with the boundaries between the self and the external world becoming blurred.

Addiction

Aurora is highly addictive. Users find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle where the drug creates an intense euphoria during the initial high. However, as the drug's effects wear off, users experience a strong desire for more Aurora to rekindle the pleasurable sensations they initially felt. This compulsive need for additional doses can lead to a range of adverse consequences, including severe physical and psychological health issues and social isolation. The pursuit of Aurora becomes an all-consuming obsession for those ensnared by its effects, making recovery progressively more challenging the longer a user has been addictec to the drug

Clinical Studies and Approval

Xenofresh Corporation-sponsored studies found no discernible negative health effects from extended Aurora use, which was instrumental in gaining public approval. Furthermore, the Freestar Collective has officially endorsed the use of Aurora, with implied significant influence from Benjamin Bayu in its legalization, on the condition that Aurora remains confined to Neon.

Notes

• There are several species of hallucinogenic fish in the real world; intoxication by such a fish is called ichthyoallyeinotoxism.