For centuries, the Stygian Weald was simply known as the northern woods, a plentiful source of timber and game for the city of Emberfield. However, its history is deeply scarred by the Shadow War. When the demonic forces were sealed on Stonewatch Island, many lesser shadow entities and corrupted beasts fled the battlefields, taking refuge in the forest's deep, dark canopy.

Over generations, these creatures became the subject of dark folklore: whispered tales of "Tall Men" with eyes that glow in the gloom, stalking the forest's edge. While locals often dismissed them as mere boogeymen, the elders knew the truth. The woods were a chilling prison, holding the lingering horrors of the war within its shadowy embrace.

Now, with the return of the lich Ariel and her necrotic influence radiating from Stonewatch Island, the ancient darkness within the Stygian Weald has been profoundly stirred from its long slumber. It has become more aggressive, and its corrupting influence has begun to bleed ominously into the surrounding lands.