A frightened creature A is standing horizontally or vertically next to the source of its fear B.
The creature can't willingly move closer to the source of its fear.
Can A freely circle B, for example to flank them or to attack another of its enemies, or to pass them with impunity in a 10' hallway (subject to OA rules as normal of course)?
I am asking, because this seems somewhat counter-intuitive: If you are next to the source of your fear, the fear does not practically restrict your movement. I hope there's something in the rules or maybe sage advice which clarifies this, other than just lack of restrictions that would apply.
Best Answer
Yes, a frightened creature can circle the source of its fear.
There are no secret rules and I'm not sure this needs that much more clarification. If you are 10' away from a creature you are frightened of then you can circle it, as long as you do not move closer.
This is not too dissimilar to my sister fearfully circling the spider in the middle of the room so she can make for the door!
It is worth noting that this rule is just for the base frightened condition. Many spells and creatures that actually cause the frightened condition also impose additional rules. For example, the description of the fear spell says: