Danger Zone One

The following is an article excerpt from Intrigue, a monthly periodical offering in-depth coverage of current events, politics, culture, and business with an emphasis on long-form articles, photojournalism, and interviews. [Article originally published five months ago.]

THE DRUG ISSUE
By Lia Blanke

Within the pleasure drug category, the most insidious and addictive is Euphoria. Just drops of the liquid substance can have immediate effects in most individuals, beginning with rising blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and increased blood flow to the genitals. Motor skills will decrease, giving way to involuntary shaking or twitching.

This ultimately leads to distortion of cognitive function, disruption of inhibitions, culminating in deviant behavior, hypersexuality, and compulsive sexual behavior. At full effect, Euphoria drives the user into a sexual frenzy, in which a physical need for sexual release will become their one encompassing desire. At this point, the individual’s ability to think rationally is often lost, and they will eschew personal safety or well-being in favor of satisfying their base urges at any cost.

With the body experiencing intensified sensations of pleasure—often much higher than can naturally be achieved—the individual will be driven to engage in some form of sexual gratification, be it intercourse or masturbation. The strength of the drug is so pervasive and debilitating that an individual may need repeated orgasms before considerable relief is felt.

For most, denying the sexual response cycle while on Euphoria is next to impossible—attempting to do so can be potentially hazardous and may result in severe cardiac dysfunction or related complications.

Danger Zone One. Story by Midnight. Art by Salaiix.