Cave Madness

Transmission & Vectors

Cave Madness isn't infections. Every time you venture down into the depths of a cave without light you risk contracting it, although deeper caves make it more likely.

Causes

It is said the darkness from the cave slowly enters your body and your mind. It lingers itself deeper and deeper until it's poisoned your mind beyond repair. After that, it doesn't matter how light a room is, your soul will still be cast in shadow.

Symptoms

A person who've caught Cave Madness will never be the same. They're endlessly afraid of the dark, panicking when the sun drops below the horizon. They have to constantly be near a fire or other light source because otherwise, the darkness will start controlling the person, making them do horrible things. They can sometimes be found whispering incomprehensible nonsense for themselves. Many have also shown trouble concentrating, or holding a thought for more than a few minutes. One thing they all have in common is what they call the shadow, seemingly always lurking around them.

Treatment

Nothing can help the poor soul who've contracted Cave Madness. We can only help them by keeping lights on for them and helping them with household chores they can no longer find the concentration needed to do.

Prognosis

While there is no cure, people with Cave Madness can still live somewhat normal lives if they get the help they need. If they, however, spend more time in the dark, their symptoms will quickly worsen.

Prevention

Bringing ample light everytime you visit a cave is the only way to protect yourself.

Cultural Reception

A person with Cave Madness is mourned like they're dead, and sometimes families go through the burial rites without the body. The person in question is admitted to special houses made for helping them live somewhat normal lives.