Ever since the very beginning, fear has been a somewhat passive part of Equestria. Only harming when courage is not plentiful.
But ever since the destruction of the Element of Courage in the Discord Wars, fear has begun to take a firm foothold in everypony's hearts.
It only got worse after the attack on Canterlot. After the invasion, many ponies began suspecting family members of being changelings. Paranoia set in. As did fear.
And you know what they say...
Where fear treads, only death will follow.
