Whispering Dread

A state of mind more than a virus, the Whispering Dread is a condition of the mind. Found normally in those who have experienced a large number of situations of intense fear and anxiety. While it is linked to fear and stress, it doesn't seem linked to trauma but fear specifically.

Transmittion

While normally the condition appears in people without contact and doesn't seem to be passed on via normal contact. Extended periods of individual exposure to suffering can start to twist the mind to think similarly, though it is not clear if it is the same condition or just a state of mind, often passing shortly after separation from the sufferer the majority of the time. This doesn't seem to happen from just being around the sufferer but only when someone spends time interacting personally over an extended period.
It should be commented that the Spirit-Bound and little folk seem to be immune to the condition, making them great guilds for such regions, not that they want to venture into them.

Common causes

Survivors of several locations have been connected to the condition, these include The webbed thicket, Sapphire cross, Dread Wall, The Dead Wood, and Mire of Lost Souls. What has been connected with the locations is the nearly continuous threat of danger and death.

Condition

Sufferers struggle with their thoughts, often scarred by high anxiety, this leads to many suffering settling down in an area and avoiding travel where possible.
These beings are nervous looking, easily spooked, and seemingly always on edge. They are easily frightened often preferring to run than fight an enemy.

Curious side effects

A curious side effect of the condition is the fact he seems quick to respond to a situation, seemingly more alert to danger. This makes them excellent lookouts if you can ever persuade one to take up such a position.

Type

Mental

Cycle

Chronic, Acquired

Rarity

Uncommon