The largest forest in Chaal Nazzerox, sprawling across the north-central region between Deadman's Lake and the Grave Hills. The Mournful Wood earned its name through a phenomenon no scholar has adequately explained: those who sleep within its boundaries weep uncontrollably through the night. By morning, the tears have crystallized on their faces, sealing their eyes shut.
Victims emerge with tear-tracks of pale crystal running from their eyes to their chins—permanent if not carefully removed. Some have gone blind. Others have been found wandering the forest's edge with their entire faces encased, suffocated by their own sorrow.
The undead pass through the Mournful Wood without difficulty. They don't sleep. They don't weep. Whatever curse afflicts this place targets only the living, which makes it an effective barrier between the northern territories and the south. Refugees fleeing the capital must go around—adding days to their journey and increasing the chance of capture.