Death shrew

Unlike the Cavern Wing, the Death Shrew (S. "Cecren Guruth"; pl. "Cicrin Geryth") appears harmless. They rarely exceed three inches in length and are often solitary. Their white coats and blue under-fur are prized among the Dunlendings of Dunland, to the south. Still, there is meaning to their name, for the bite of a Death Shrew carries the disease called The Blue Hand (S. "E Luincam"). The Blue Hand is not contagious or fatal, but it shortens lives. Dunlendings who contract it kill themselves. This is due to the disease's dreadful effects: blue discolorations of the skin; large boils on the hands, feet, and under the eyes; bleeding through the ears and nose. Those who contract it are often immobilized or crippled, and frequently outcasts.