Adjunct
Anyone admitted to a Host’s Branch during staging by making and maintaining physical contact with the Host while the Branch is being staged. Once inside the Branch Domain, Adjuncts can optionally summon a patch and commit or rescind the Branch. Some Adjuncts are admitted to the Branch Domain through alternative means. Adjuncts are split into four tiers: primary, secondary, tertiary, and pseudo, which all have differing levels of impact on an active Branch. Learn more in The Role of Adjuncts.
Advent
The birth of a Vice—categorized as either sudden or gradual—that officially classifies a Host as infected. Sudden advents occur when the Vice's birth is directly tied to a specific event, and the manifestation of a detectable Vice core immediately follows. Sudden advents also result in a Branch, known as the advent Branch. Gradual advents occur when the Vice core slowly manifests over time, and no singular event is tied to its creation. The properties present at advent influence the Branch Domain and revisiting these properties often result in Branch initiation. Learn more about the circumstances and processes surrounding the birth of a Vice in Advent.
Antivitiumglomerorum (AV, plural: antivitiumglomerora)
The human body's natural defense against vitiumglomerorum (VG), AV is its perfect counter-molecule. When an AV particle collides with a VG particle, a small burst of energy is released and both molecules are destroyed. AV can be naturally observed in patches summoned outside of the Branch Domain and glow a bright cyan. While AV are produced by the body naturally, it is often in small amounts and only activated after sudden, drastic changes in VG levels. Artificial AV sources—such as an AV Shot or Summoning Gloves—and regular sessions with an AV Specialist can help boost the body's natural production. Because vitiumnexa (VN) are considered relatively similar in composition to VG, AV are also capable of attacking and nullifying newly-established tracks. Learn more about AV and their role in AV and Patches.
Augmentation
Throughout its life cycle, beginning in adolescence, a Vice will create and establish a network that branches through the Host’s body, originating from its core. When conditions are favorable, most commonly during a Branch when the Host’s immune system is overwhelmed, a Vice will begin the process of augmentation, expanding its core along the nutrient-rich paths of its network. Augmentation is the intended goal of initiating Branches, and this growth paves the way for a Vice to initiate fusion and perform dispersion. Learn more about Branches in The Branch Phenomenon or explore the effects of augmentation on a Host’s body in Host Statuses.
AV Shot
This device floods a Host's body with AV to combat an advancing Vice and is similar in appearance and mechanics to an epinephrine auto-injector. The AV attacks both the Vice’s network and the core; however, AV Shots pose the risk of instigating a Branch, and in the case of mature or intelligent Vices, simply agitate the core and can actually increase growth. AV Shots can be used by CVRS agents to facilitate suspension if needed, and in regular, monitored doses can even facilitate exposure rescission. Blight Specialists may also use AV Shots to provide relief from acute blights. Learn about all our treatment options in Services, Treatment & Support.
Berserk
This status is applied to Hosts when the Vice core has made sudden, exponential progress expanding along its network, and the Host is in danger of the Vice core fusing with their body. While not always, this process often occurs while a Host is trapped in a Branch. Outside of a Branch, a berserk Host (sometimes abbreviated as b!Host) is often unpredictable, and can even be aggressive and hostile as their body is frantically trying to defend against the advancing Vice. The telltale sign of a b!Host is uncharacteristically overactive blights. If a b!Host is left unaddressed, they will become comatose. The safest way to defend against an advancing Vice is to commit (or even rescind) a Branch. Learn more in Host Statuses.
Blight
In the same way the immune system might prompt a rash when battling a virus, blights are the body’s response to being infected with a Vice. Blights can be categorized as expulsion, drape, or extrusion blights. Regardless of its type, blights are informed by the Vice’s exhibition and can be a valuable insight into possible changes to the exhibition between Branches. More aggressive blights are indicative of an advancing Vice core or an established network and should not be ignored. Learn more in Blights.
Branch
This dissociative phenomenon is the side effect of the overwhelming influx of VG emitted when a Vice intends to expand its core, also known as augmentation. The term “Branch” encompasses all three stages (initiation, staging and production) and presents the Host with three options: suspending, committing or rescinding the Branch. During production, a Host temporarily loses contact with their body, and their consciousness is transported to the Branch Domain, a metaphysical—but finite and limited—environment where the Vice’s exhibition can be fought. This out-of-body experience is often described as a hallucination or dream, though actions taken in the Branch Domain can have very real consequences. A Vice takes advantage of the Host’s vulnerable state during a Branch and typically pursues either germination or augmentation. Learn about Branches and how to address them in The Branch Phenomenon.
Branch Domain
This liminal space is where the production stage of a Branch occurs, also known as the metaphysical realm. The domain is comprised of a fabricated environment, the Vice’s exhibition, and extensions of the Host and Adjuncts, as well as their patches. The Branch Domain originates from the Vice core, making the core the true center and the lone corporeal object of the Branch Domain. This environment stays largely the same through a Vice’s life cycle, as its properties draw from those experienced during advent. Over time, this environment can grow to be more complex as the Vice has more energy to devote during staging, though it typically keeps its core components. Learn more in Branch Phases.
Branch Policy
A Branch Policy is the comprehensive view of a Vice’s approach to Branches, including environmental Branch triggers, the Branch Domain blueprint, exhibition presentation and attack strategy, as well as the priorities while the Branch is active. A Vice’s Branch Policy stays largely the same throughout its life cycle, and familiarizing oneself with these properties can help lead to a quicker, more efficient rescission. Certain classifications of Vices—namely Delta and Epsilon Vices—intentionally change or obfuscate their Branch Policy, respectively. Learn more in Branch Policies.
Cleared
“Cleared” is the label applied to a patient after the Vice core has been destroyed by a successful rescission. Cleared patients can have lingering blights and traces of the previous network, though neither of these pose considerable threats. They often dissipate gradually over time, but can be expedited with the help of Suppressants or a monthly AV Shot. Cleared patients do pose a risk for reignition, but the probability is relatively low. Research suggests that cleared patients have a slightly stronger immune system and consequently require a higher concentration of VG to result in another advent. Learn more in Host Statuses.
Comatose
This precarious phase is applied to a Host whose Vice has begun fusing its expanded core with the Host's physical body due to the lack or failure of action during the berserk phase. In this phase, motor control is inhibited and the Vice has flooded the system with lethal amounts of serotonin. High fever, seizures, and heart arrhythmia are indicative of a comatose Host. The Vice core is stretched extremely thin during this process and is incredibly vulnerable to attacks from patches, though attacks do pose a considerable risk to the physical body of the Host due to its fusion with tissue and organs. A comatose Host is unresponsive to the physical world, and any attempts at rescission need to be made swiftly, as Hosts do not last long in this phase. Though rescission does pose potential harm to the Host’s physical form, the benefits of a successful rescission far outweigh the finality of dispersion. Learn more in Host Statuses.
Commit
One of the three potential paths to take during Branches, committing a Branch entails damaging the Vice’s core during production, typically by using a patch. This is the most common action taken during a Branch and is what is recommended if rescission is not attainable. Initiating a Branch is a costly maneuver for the Vice, and when committed, forces the Vice to retract any fresh growth achieved during augmentation or germination to repair its structural integrity. Committing a Branch buys more time between Branches as the Vice repairs its core, and often provides the Host or any present Adjuncts with more information to perform a successful rescission. Learn more about addressing Branches in Branch Options.
Core
Understood to be a Vice’s life source, when the core is destroyed, the Vice is rescinded and the Host is cleared. A Vice’s core houses its biological processes, such as energy processing, the creation of VG, Branch Policy, and even intelligence and sentience. The inner-workings of cores are currently unable to be researched due to their defense mechanisms. Vice cores typically reside inside the Host’s physical body, much like a tumor or parasite, and are created when a high concentration of VG is embedded in soft tissue or a benign mass. Many physical and behavioral characteristics of the core differ between classifications. Learn more about its composition in Vice Biology.
Dimissal (dismiss, dismissed)
Vices are able to dismiss Adjuncts, resulting in the removal of an Adjunct from an active Branch. Dismissed Adjuncts are capable of forcing re-entry using a Bypass, but the chances of a successful entry are much lower. Dismissal is typically only observed in mature Vices with a higher threat level, as it is only performed if the Vice views the Adjunct as a deadly threat. All Adjuncts can be dismissed, though the dismissal of primary Adjuncts is highly unlikely. Tertiary and pseudo Adjuncts are easily expelled without much effort, if any, and secondary Adjuncts typically take a bit more effort due to their physical contact. Hosts cannot be dismissed from their own Branch. Learn more about Adjuncts in The Role of Adjuncts or the act of dismissal in Fringe Branch Events.
Dispersion
Dispersion is the ultimate goal of a Vice, wherein the Vice core overtakes, fuses with, then consumes the Host's body from the inside out. After the body is completely consumed by the core, it explodes into a fine mist of VG, or fungus-like spores, that can be embedded into those nearby. If a comatose Host is left unaddressed, they will be dispersed. Every Branch poses the risk of dispersion, if not prepared. Learn more about dispersion in Vice Reproduction.
Exhibition
Only present in the Branch Domain, a Vice's exhibition shields the vulnerable core from the Host, Adjuncts and their patches. Exhibitions typically take the form of predatory animals—though the possibilities are endless. Some exhibitions are comprised of the properties present at advent, typically textures, smells or sounds and can even draw from the innate fears of the Host. Exhibitions also influence blights, as many properties present in the exhibition are mirrored as blights, most commonly seen as horns, teeth or skin textures. Exhibitions are incredibly unique and vary greatly between Hosts, though experts have begun grouping them by size and Branch strategy. Learn more in Exploring Exhibitions.
Extension
These metaphysical facsimiles of the Host and Adjuncts—only present in the Branch Domain—are near-perfect mirrors of their corporeal counterparts. However, within the Branch Domain, extensions are capable of physics-defying feats, much like the logic that allows people to fly or breathe under water in dreams. More severe injuries sustained within the Branch Domain—such as lacerations or broken bones—can manifest afterward as shallow cuts and muscle aches. Extensions can directly impact the outcome of a Branch through either committing or rescinding the Branch. Extensions are further explored throughout The Branch Phenomenon.
Germination
Germination refers to the process of a Vice expanding its network. This process occurs at a near-imperceptible pace, starting in adolescence, and paves the way for augmentation and ultimately dispersion. During Branches, Vices take advantage of the Host’s compromised immune system and perform germination alongside augmentation, though they tend to prioritize one over the other. Prioritizing germination leads to complex networks that typically result in a more efficient, quicker dispersion and chronic blights. Learn more about Vice networks in Feeding & Energy Management.
Host
The term “Host” refers to someone infected with a Vice and is most commonly heard in research spaces. The relationship between a Host and their Vice is evident from this terminology, which is often regarded as parasitic. Everyone possesses the ability to become a Host, but the probability fluctuates based on environment, personal characteristics, and past Vice-related encounters. It is estimated that roughly 68% of the population are currently infected with a Vice. Learn more in Host Statuses.
Network
The network is a mycelium-like collection of tracks that branch throughout the Host’s body, originating from the Vice core at the beginning of adolescence. The network monitors physiological changes and collects various hormones or other energy sources to send back to the core where it feeds. During Branches, the core grows and expands along this nutrient-rich path. Particularly established networks tend to be rigid and result in achy joints, even going so far as to restrict range of motion in extreme cases. While the network is predominantly internal, in more mature Vices, it can extend beyond the Host’s body to monitor external conditions or create a rumen as an external energy reserve. Networks can be seen through Parsing Goggles though some Vices are able to camouflage their networks. Learn more about networks and their purpose in Feeding & Energy Management.
Patch
As a dense collection of AV naturally produced by our bodies, patches are understood to be the physical manifestation of our bodies’ attempt to protect us. Not all Hosts obtain patches and they cannot be intentionally created; therefore, lack of patch creation typically suggests a Vice with a lower threat level. Research posits that patches are only created when the Host is in danger, typically triggered by sudden changes in the physiology of the Vice core, such as resource hoarding or exponential network expansion or core growth. Patches range in appearance and function and often resemble weapons or defenses, designed especially to counter the Vice’s exhibition. Learn more in AV and Patches.
Rescind (rescission)
Rescission is the act of destroying a Vice’s core, most commonly using a patch in the Branch Domain. Vice Management Specialists offer a rescission service through multiple methods: standard rescission, exposure rescission, and manual rescission. Upon achieving successful rescission, a Host is labeled as cleared, with a low possibility of reignition. Lingering blights are not uncommon, and can be treated with the help of Suppressants or monthly AV Shots. Learn more about the act of rescission in The Branch Phenomenon. Tips for rescinding specific classifications can be found throughout Classifying Vices.
Rumen (plural: rumina)
Typically observed in Vices with a higher threat level, rumina are external resource hoards where a Vice stores extra energy gathered from a Host, typically during times of excess. It is connected to the Vice core through a densely-packed collection of stolons, sometimes visible to the naked eye. Many Hosts with a rumen report symptoms such as depression, fatigue, executive dysfunction, as well as muscle or joint stiffness. A rumen can detach from its Host if they stray too far, and are capable of surviving separate from their Host for a few weeks, depending on their size. Detached rumina gradually disintegrate over time, releasing a steady flow of VG and can aid in Vice reproduction. A detached rumen is able to reattach if the Host is back in proximity for an established length of time, typically around a week. Learn more in Establishing Rumina.
Stolon
These external tracks are more commonly found in certain classifications or mature Vices. While the majority of a Vice’s network is contained inside the Host’s body, a Vice will sometimes extend tracks outside of the body to monitor external conditions, scout for potential rumen, or even admit tertiary Adjuncts to Branches. Learn more about their purpose in Network Fundamentals.
Suppressant
These extended release pills are best suited for treating patients with chronic blights. Once ingested, a Suppressant gradually releases a steady stream of AV, slightly boosting the patient’s overall AV level. After a month of repeated use, many patients report not only decreased blight activity, but less fatigue and higher energy levels. However, because blights are our bodies’ way of communicating with us, many view the suppression of blights as potentially dangerous and are only prescribed by trained CVRS agents and those familiar with individual patient cases. Suppressants are typically prescribed as part of Blight management or Branch recovery services. Learn more about these and others in Services, Treatment & Support.
Suspend (suspension)
One of three potential paths to take during Branches, suspending a Branch entails threatening the Vice core while the Branch is being staged, by using either an AV Shot or patch. This is typically ill-advised, as doing so often agitates the Vice and results in more frequent Branches, among many other downsides. Suspension should only be performed as a last result, particularly to buy more time to prepare, then Branch remediation should be performed by CVRS agents in Urgent Care. Learn more in Branch Options.
Track
This hypha-like appendage extends from the Vice’s core once it begins establishing its network in adolescence. They are simply densely-packed vitiumnexa (VN) surrounding a thin stream of VG and occasional hormones. New tracks are extremely fluid and easily damaged, but as they become more established, higher levels of AV are needed to damage them. While the primary purpose of tracks is to monitor surroundings and send nutrients back to the core, it is also the path that the core expands along during a Branch. Collectively, the tracks are known as the Vice’s network. Learn more about networks and their purpose in Network Fundamentals.
Vitiumglomerorum (VG, plural: vitiumglomerora)
VG are extremely light, spore-like cells expelled by the Vice core as a form of reproduction. While dispersion is their preferred method, VG can also be expelled by rumina in smaller concentrations. Due to the recent rise in Vice infections, VG are found in detectable amounts throughout our world and can even be seen with the naked eye in high concentrations. VG most commonly enter our body through orifices and microscopic tears in the skin, but are small enough to enter through our pores as well. Over time, large concentrations of VG in the body can drastically alter the genetic makeup of soft tissue and benign masses to result in the birth of a Vice. VG are also responsible for the dream-like, sedative effects of Branches. Learn more in Vice Reproduction.
Vitiumnexum (VN, plural: vitiumnexa)
VN are unique, extremely small cells that make up the majority of tracks in the Vice’s network. VN have proven to be difficult to study, as other Vice-specific molecules have, due in large part to both their size and Vices’ reactivity and defense mechanisms. What we do know is that these molecules relay rudimentary environmental information back to the core, while also receiving core feedback to expand or retract in specific environmental conditions. Because tracks are so densely packed with VN, their form is relatively porous and can shift its outer layer of VN to ensnare passing hormones with a net-like configuration and send them back to the core for processing. Learn more about networks and their purpose in Feeding & Energy Management.