Mold

The Mold is a destructive force of decay that is running rampart in parts of the Western Plaguelands, notably Thondoril. It has rendered the main route to Hearthglen impassible, though the stronghold itself is thought to be largely unaffected by the phenomenon.

Characteristics
The Mold is largely composed of various fungi, molds and sludge ridden cultures, and seems strongest in areas that were formerly strongholds of the Scourge. It is not thought to be a derivative of necromantic energies or the Plague of Undeath, but a powerful force of decay itself. It is theorized that the fungal growth originated as a natural force of decay that took root to amplify the processes of rot and decomposition following the siphoning of life from the Plaguelands which the magics of necromancy had either put in suspension or exhausted entirely during the Scourging of Lordaeron. As of the current date, the rapid expansion and unceasing advance of its spread is hard to decipher as either a natural evolution or augmentation from an outside power.

Effects
As to its effects on the flora and fauna it comes into contact with, the results are devastating; those cursed with undeath, shambling or sane, are susceptible to corruption and envelopment from the mold after only short exposure to the spores hanging in the air around areas it has consumed. The living also suffer from contact and inhalation of the pathogens released by the fungal masses, but to a much lesser extent. While the effects of long-term exposure are yet unknown, wearing cloth or other breathable materials over the nose and mouth have proven to be effective in warding off the airborne miasma. Reportedly, fully ordained paladins of the Silver Hand and other orders do not appear to suffer any consequences from prolonged exposure to The Mold.