Mournful Mutter

Mournful mutter is only effective if cast upon the Ethereal Plane. This spell causes the vague memories of mourning spirits that have passed away through the mists to haunt a specific individual. If a target fails his saving throw vs. spell, a barely audible murmuring and muttering begins in the target's vicinity, apparently issuing from the surrounding vapors. The mutterings are not normally coherent, but the target, as well as anyone within a 1-foot radius of the target, can easily sense sadness, loss, and pain while the muttering continues. At the Dungeon Master's option, the target can discern a few words- including his name, the nature of a secret or past shame, or some other series of words determined by the Dungeon Master. No discernible source for the sounds is detectable besides the ethereal mist itself.

Although not overtly harmful, the murmuring never ceases but instead continues to bedevil the target, driving him to distraction. Targets of mournful mutter incur a -2 penalty to all actions, including attack rolls, proficiency checks, and saving throws while the muttering continues. Leaving the Ethereal Plane disperses the effect, as does dispel magic.

The material components for mournful mutter include a coffin nail and a mourner's cowl.