[GM Notes] The Doors to Land of the Morning Light Have Opened

GM Notes Jun 13, 2023, 16:15 (UTC) The Doors to Land of the Morning Light Have Opened

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Brave traveler, I heard you are preparing to set off for the “Land of the Morning Light”.

Despite its enchanting beauty, a pall of bleak, dismal energy hangs over this land.

In my quest to complete its map, I’ve wandered, watching and listening to every corner of this country, and I shall gift you with a log of my experiences.

I hope this will aid you in your own endeavors.

- Seungsan

1. Land of the Morning Light Territories

Dalbeol Village

This is a transportation hub that leads to the capital, and the central trading hub where traders with all kinds of goods from across the Donghae Province converge.

As such, it is always bustling with people in need of something, and the development of the lodging industry was spurred by the prolonged stays of travelers and merchants due to the threat of Sangoon.

They say that the third daughter of the Honorable Choi, the richest man around, is quite the beauty.

Nampo

Nampo is the new name given to Port Ratt after undergoing extensive expansion.

It’s a lively port where boats from all over the world come and go, carrying a great diversity of goods and people.

Waves lap its serene beach, and, as one of the largest shipyards in the Land of the Morning Light, cargo ships, the Panokseon, and other traditional Korean vessels are mainly constructed here.

Who you will meet: Yeonhwa

Byeot County

Byeot County is widely recognized for its expansive, arable farmland. Ox carts transporting grains are a common sight, and it boasts a substantial population of farmers.

These farmers come from diverse backgrounds, and each have their own stories. Young women gather at the nearby river to do laundry.

The rice harvested in Byeot County is renowned for its excellent quality. It’s the best in the Land of the Morning Light. This is largely attributed to the efforts of Miss Myo, who shares her extensive knowledge of weather and farming practices with the people of Byeot County.

Shimnidae Forest

Shimnidae Forest is a place where people burdened by injustice lay down stone towers and shout their bitterness into the winds.

You can find bulletins throughout the forest where studious seonbis have anonymously written things they cannot dare say out loud.

Currently, there are rumors that the Bamboo Legion has come to slaughter those who speak of their resentment, so the number of people who visit the forest has lessened significantly.

Who you will meet: Bamboo Legion, the bamboo soldiers of Korean folklore

Beombawi Valley

Beombawi Valley of Taebaek is a majestic locale cloaked with the vibrant hues of the changing seasons.

However, the path leading to the tiger rock is being controlled by the Tigerslayers due to its perilous nature. It is also said that the Changui, spirits who met their demise at the hands of tigers, roam the upper regions of Beombawi.

Who you will meet: The Changui, spirits of those killed by tigers, and Sangoon, the tiger king that has gripped the Land of the Morning Light with terror

Bari Forest

A gloomy and desolate forest.

There is a rumor circulating that anyone who visits Bari Forest becomes a lifeless corpse upon their return. As a result, people passing through the area make sure to visit the Sacred Dangsan Tree, protected and worshipped by the Birigondeok couple, to seek good fortune and protection.

Who you will meet: Songakshi and The Mudang Wraith, who wields supernatural powers

Shimhyangje Giwa House / Solbaram Neowa House

The serene, spacious traditional Korean hanok of the Shimhyangje and Giwa House, and the cozy and warm ambiance of the Solbaram Neowa House.

In a similar manner to Heidel’s Blue Maned Lion’s Manor, travelers can rent out a spot with a simple contract and some Contribution Points.

#2 Bosses of the Morning Light

Each Land of the Morning Light boss embodies various elements of Korean mysticism and folklore.

Unlike other territories, the bosses of the East all have a connection to the auras of Sun, Moon, or Earth.

In facing these bosses during your adventures, it will be crucial to check each of their aura weaknesses in the Boss UI.

	The Enchanting Fox Spirit, Gumiho Gumiho, the fox with many tails. She possesses a mysterious Fox Orb. She appears in various forms, and is currently in search of her Fox Orb, which somehow disappeared... #Honglim Base
	The Bamboo Soldiers of Korean Folklore, Bamboo Legion Kill them once, kill them twice, again and again they will rise. The mysterious Tideturner Flute calls upon the Bamboo Legion. As soon as it was broken, the legion appeared to purify this tainted world. #Shimnidae Forest
	Spirits of Those Killed by Tigers, the Changui When someone is killed by the jaws of a tiger, their pure soul becomes corrupted and emerges from the tiger’s belly as a Changui. Driven by the scent of human flesh and blood, they offer Humans as a sacrificial offering to the tiger in order to quell their resentment. #Beombawi Valley
	Wielder of Supernatural Powers, the Mudang Wraith Bari, who received the unconditional love of the kind Birigongdeok couple. This pure girl who could not dare to hurt a thing, suddenly vanished and returned as a Mudang Wraith. #Bari Forest
	The Spinster Ghost, Songakshi The Songakshi, who claims to have no sins other than being madly in love, wanders every day in search of her beloved fiance. Any man who ever looks into her eyes will be cursed with Gakshi Fever. #Bari Forest
	The Unsurpassed Executioner, Golden Pig King The Golden Pigs, who are said to mine daily for gold, and their enforcer, the Golden Pig King, known as the Executioner. It seems that the poor have established an inexplicable relationship with the Golden Pigs, working together in mining operations. Rumors have it that they are actually being blackmailed by the Golden Pigs.
	The Terrifying Tiger King, Sangoon Sangoon, esteemed among the tigers and the Guardian of Mount Taebaek. One day, he was overcome by a sudden, intense rage and unleashed his wrath upon the unsuspecting people. Even the busy peddlers, who are constantly engaged in trading, have been reluctant to climb the mountain due to their fear of Sangoon. Instead, they find themselves tied to Dalbeol Village, unable to venture further. #Dalbeol Village

Main Rewards

Essence of Taebaek
* Material for Taebaek’s Belt

Jewel of Illusion
* Material for Deboreka Earring

Flame of Hongik
* Material for Dahn's Gloves

Embers of Hongik
* Material for Dahn's Gloves

3. Those You Will Meet

Yeonhwa

“Come visit, okay? Before I'm on my deathbed!”

Yeonhwa is the one who invites you to this new land, the Land of the Morning Light. She introduces you to Dolswe to ensure a smooth adventure throughout the unfamilar region.
Soon after, she departs, saying she's going to get medicine for her younger sibling.

Dolswe

"Yes, ma'am. I'll take good care of 'em.”

Dolswe is a seasoned porter, introduced by Yeonhwa, who will accompany you on your journey through the Land of the Morning Light.
He has been a long-time servant and speaks with a warm and approachable demeanor. However, upon visiting his hometown, you'll find that nobody seems to recognize him.

Yeongam of the East

"In accordance with those laws, I hereby... sentence the guilty to death!"

During your adventure in the Land of the Morning Light, you will encounter Lee Duksoo, entangled in an unfortunate turn of events.
He is known as the warden of Donghae Province or the Yeongam of the East, possessing exceptional knowledge and administrative skills.

Old Birigongdeok Couple

"I believed she was a gift from the Dangsan God."

An elderly couple with kind hearts who lend a sympathetic ear to the concerns of the villagers.
They hold a secret wish close to their hearts, one that they cannot confide in others—the fact that they have no children.

Dohoon the Physiognomist

"Who are you? And do ya got any booze?"

Dohoon, the infamous physiognomist who always carries a bottle of alcohol, claiming that he cannot read people's faces while sober.
While he may frequently discuss his love for alcohol, the villagers attest to his exceptional skills as a physiognomist.

Sungyeom

"How nice of you to do what I asked."

Sungyeom is a jeweler based in Nampo who has an intriguing background. She was once the most celebrated entertainer in Donghae Province, captivating audiences far and wide.
Given her previous employment with the government, Sungyeom might have some fascinating stories to share, ones she may have overheard during her time there.

4. New Adventures

To the intrepid adventurer who has ventured across the Margoria Sea and now sets foot in the Land of the Morning Light, it may feel like stepping into a completely different world.

Allow me to provide you with some additional information about this place, the Land of the Morning Light. It is a land that harbors numerous stories and tales within its borders, told by its diverse inhabitants.

If, during your journey, someone seeks your aid, remember that your choices have the power to change the world. Approach such situations with careful consideration and thoughtfulness.

But do not worry. After all, people are the same everywhere, aren't they?

When you visit, I encourage you to try the local cuisine. I have gathered a few recommendations from the villagers, and the list below might be helpful.

Menu

Byeot County Gukbap

Dalbeol Gukbap

Moodle Gukbap

Sungnyung

White Kimchi

Dongchimi

Soybean Jjigae

Buckwheat Muk

While exploring the Land of the Morning Light, you will come across persimmon trees radiating a deep orange hue and delightful wild berries. I highly recommend trying your hand at picking them yourself.

Gatherables

Persimmon

Wild Berry

Ginkgo

Napa Cabbage

Experience the culinary delights crafted with sweat and toil by the farmers and fishermen of the Land of the Morning Light, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of this land, which can be felt in every corner of the village.

Brave traveler who has eagerly awaited the opening of the gates of Nampo Harbor,

though I have many untold stories, I hope you arrive safely in the Land of the Morning Light and lend an ear to our tales, filled with beauty and the essence of life.

May your journey in the Land of the Morning Light be filled with excitement and continuous discovery. With that, I shall conclude my writing for now.

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