Surah Side Quests

Hmm... Let's see, any good recruits out here?

Hey, you! Do you have a minute to spare?

Huh? What? Do you mean me?

Not exactly dainty, but fit... Not bad...

Oh, excuse me. My name is Sihyeon. I work at Dohwa Garden.

If you aren't too busy, I have a proposal for you. May I bend your ear?

This feels iffy.

No, it's nothing iffy! This might be your chance at a new life!

That makes it sound even iffier.

Still, it doesn't hurt to listen.

Mmm...

Do you know about gisaeng?

Not really. I know that they're artists that sing and dance.

Not only do gisaeng sing and dance, but they're also masters of numerous arts, including playing instruments and cooking.

I've come out to the streets in search of beautiful girls, to offer them a new life.

Huh? A beautiful girl? Me?

Yes! That's right! You're beautiful. You just haven't found your style yet!

Hmm... Maybe we should listen.

I thought you felt iffy about this.

There's no way that someone who says I'm pretty could be a bad person!

I wonder what you're good at. Dancing? Singing?

I could never dance, but maybe singing...?

Ahem... Mom, mom! ♬ Come on! Dinner is getting cold! ♬ Dad, dad! Dinner is...

That's enough! I think it's very clear you're not a singer!

I tried my best...

But maybe you'd be a good fit as a fourth-rate gisaeng?

A fourth-rate gisaeng? What's that?

They're gisaeng with special secret missions, operating exclusively from Dohwa Garden.

Let's have you take a simple test first.

Defeat the hauntstack that's been hassling Beomgol lately and bring me its loot.

Verna...? Are you really trying to join Dohwa Garden?

I was just playing along.

I knew it. It's because she called you "beautiful".

Shut up, Cloud.

Do you have the hauntstack's loot?

The hauntstack's straw hat. It's secure.

My instincts are always right.

You need polishing... I mean, you're a diamond in the rough.

Under my guidance, I'm sure we'll make you shine!

Thank you for saying that, but... I like the life I have now.

And I can't just abandon Cloud.

Oh, I see... That's too bad.

Dohwa Garden's gates are always open. Come find me if you ever change your mind.

Thanks, I'll keep that in mind.

Excuse me. Are you adventurers?

Yes, but why do you ask?

I was hoping you could take my request.

That depends on what it is and the compensation is.

Do you know the Dokkaebi Shrine? It's deep within the Forest of Fireflies.

Yeah. In fact, you could say nobody knows it better than we do.

Well, that's perfect!

Oh, let me introduce myself. My name is Sangmin, and I'm researching dokkaebi.

What a dangerous research topic.

That's exactly why it's an important research topic.

I'd like to request that you escort me while I research the Dokkaebi Shrine.

I will compensate you adequately... and share some interesting information.

It won't be a boring job.

Thank you for helping me arrive here safely. Please wait while I conduct my research.

Ugh... This place still gives me the creeps.

It's because of the dokkaebi energy that flowed out when the shrine was opened.

All this from that brief moment...

I guess sealing them away was the best they could do back then.

Yes, I assume. Although I understand why dokkaebi started the war.

You understand why they started a war?

Oh, I'm not trying to justify their crimes.

But understanding the past will stop us from repeating the same mistakes.

That's true. Then, what do you understand?

Dokkaebi settled in Baek-Ah earlier than any other species.

To them, we are intruders.

There's a reason why they act so recklessly yet are so brazen.

Still... You can't try to solve everything with violence.

That's right. That's why the Council of Empyrean Fangs was troubled. And that's why sealing them away was the best they could do.

Duoxini simply exposed the festering problem.

You know a lot about Duoxini too?

It's nearly impossible for a resident of Surah not to.

Should we continue talking at another location?

I'd like to research the fabric talismans near the Dokkaebi Shrine.

Shh, this way.

As expected, the fabric talismans have been exhausted.

Duoxini's energy was just that powerful.

What is this?

Fabric said to carry divine energy. It's used to ward off evil spirits.

I always just thought they were pretty, but they must've been a part of the seal.

Anyway, should we continue talking about Duoxini?

He's relatively young for a dokkaebi, but he was always different.

Duoxini used his overwhelming strength to immediately became the king of the dokkaebi and proclaimed that strength itself would be the law.

Many sought to appease him to avoid conflict... but that ended up making things worse.

He became an unifying figure all dokkaebi rallied behind. And...

The Dokkaebi War began.

That's right. Dokkaebi are troublemakers by nature, but Duoxini brought them together and caused chaos.

Thank you for waiting. I've collected the piece of cloth. Should we start heading in?

It's still closed tight, but more youkai energy is seeping out than before.

Just thinking about this energy turning into kkaebi makes my head hurt.

Still, I'm just glad the shrine wasn't destroyed.

Come to think of it, who built this shrine anyway?

I'll have to talk about the Dokkaebi War to answer that question.

We were utterly helpless against Duoxini's invasion.

All of the villages in Surah were attacked and destroyed, and many died.

Naksan was the last stronghold.

In the midst of our despair, the Council of Empyrean Fangs came to our aid.

But even with the council's attempts at mediation, Duoxini refused to cease fighting.

Finally, the Empyrean Fangs had no choice but to apprehend the dokkaebi and punish them.

That's how the shrine was created. Its seal was untouchable.

So that fact the seal was broken means...

It means one thing for sure. It was broken by someone incredibly powerful.

Anyway, I'm done here. Should we head back?

Thank you. Your protection made my research proceed much easier.

You're welcome. What you shared with us was really interesting.

That's a relief. I was worried I was talking too much.

The shrine has become much more stable since Duoxini was eliminated, but there are still a lot of dokkaebi that got out.

I'll be counting on your continued support. Thanks again.

Huh? Hey, you! I've been looking for you!

Who are you? Do you know us?

Of course! You're the people who helped Gabi!

Oh, you know Gabi? You should've said so.

What's up?

I need your help!

Yeah? What's going on?

You know how Gabi became the leader of the dokkaebi, right?

Not all the dokkaebi are on board with that!

There are these jerks calling themselves Kimoxini or Trioxini or whatever, all claiming that they're Duoxini's successors!

Can't Gabi take care of them on her own? She's really strong.

Gabi is busy sending bad dokkaebi back to the shrine!

I can pay you guys back. Please help!

How long are the dokkaebi going to keep causing trouble?

Until Gabi fully establishes her position?

You've defeated me... Kimoxini... Not bad!

However, my friend Trioxini, will carry on my resolve...!

Oh, really? Okay, tell him to get ready to lose.

Wait! Stop!

I-I'm Duoxini's successor, Trioxini! I... will never surrender!

Did you hear that, Cloud? Should we take him down?

L-let's try talking to him first.

Can you not do this?

Stop?! Why?! Who do you think you are?!

Ugh... Might as well be talking to a wall.

You've lost. How about you give up your claim to the throne?

It was... It was really close, right?

What do you say to best out of three? I think I could take you.

Oh, okay! That's what you think? Fine, let's fight again!

V-Verna... Hold on...

Don't kid yourself. If you lost to us, how do you expect to fight Gabi?

Um... I could win... if I try really hard.

Even we don't stand a chance against Gabi.

Really? She's that strong?

Say that she is, Verna.

R-really?! Gabi is that strong?

She knocked Duoxini out in one hit!

That might change things... She's too strong...

So stop trying to become the next Duoxini or whatever and stay out of trouble.

Err... Okay...

What happened? Did you kick their butts?

We took care of two of them. Kimoxini and Trioxini.

Oh, yes! You took care of the most troublesome ones!

Thank you! Here, let me give you all the treasures I've collected!

Where'd you get all of this?

They're things lost by travelers in these mountains! I've been collecting them for ten years!

W-wait, in that case, I feel bad taking this from you!

It's okay! I'm happy to give it to Gabi's friends who helped welcome in her era!

Oh no. That little rascal...

Did something happen, mister?

My little Jinu chased his loose kite straight into the Forest of Fireflies.

It's dangerous there because of all the dokkaebi!

Oh, Jinu... My dear Jinu...

We'll go look for your son.

Really? Thank you. Thank you very much.

Yes, don't worry too much. I'm sure he'll be fine.

I don't think he's around here.

Let's head deeper inside.

Found him! There's a kid over there!

There's a dokkaebi with him, too! Let's hurry!

Get away from the child!

Wait!

I'm okay! I'm not hurt!

Mister Kim, who are these people?

Are you Jinu?

Are you... okay?

Yes, I'm really okay. Doogie even found my kite for me.

Even though it's broken...

I'm teaching this little master how to make a kite of leaves.

I forgot where I was cause of you guys!

Haha... Sorry. I guess we misunderstood the situation.

This is actually good. Little master, go with these people.

There are a lot of scary dokkaebi deeper inside, so don't you ever come in here alone again!

But...

Let's meet up again during the next full moon. I'll finish teaching you how to make a kite of leaves then!

Okay! See you then!

Phew, I'm just glad the kid's okay.

Yeah, let's take him to his dad.

Jinu!

Dad!

You little rascal! I told you to stay out of there because it's full of dokkaebi.

But the kite you made me flew away, so...

Ah, it's just a kite. I can make you ten or even twenty more.

Don't ever go into the Forest of Fireflies alone again, alright?

Yeah... but...

Actually, we were able to find Jinu so easily because a dokkaebi was looking after him.

A dokkaebi?

Yeah, Doogie chased away the wild animals and stuff.

And we promised to meet again during the next full moon...

They say that dokkaebi have changed recently, but that's unusual.

Yeah. The dokkaebi and your son were definitely making friends.

Really? Oh, dear. I wasn't even able to give a proper thank you. Thank you so much.

Don't worry about it. We're just glad your kid's okay.

Dad, dad. Can we go see Doogie during the full moon?

A-alright, but don't ever go deep into the forest again, alright?

Okay, I promise, dad.

Goldie, Golda, Goldeen... How am I supposed to farm now...?

Is there something wrong? Who's Goldie?

Goldie, Golda, and Goldeen are the family cows.

I left the barn door open while I was feeding them...

Then, I heard a sharp whistle from somewhere, and they all ran out!

Oh no... Who blew the whistle?

Well, I didn't see anyone, but there have been some youkai spotted lately. So maybe...?

We'll look for your cows. Do they have any distinguishing features?

Goldie is the oldest, Golda is a very timid, and Goldeen is the most stubborn.

And if you sing, "moo, moo, yellow cow, have you any milk?"

They'll head home when they hear that.

Oh, okay. Luckily, I'm quite the singer. Don't worry! We won't take long!

I have one more favor to ask... Goldie hasn't eaten for the past few days because of a stomachache.

Please feed this dried grass to Goldie and she'll perk right up.

Okay, the song, Goldie, and dried grass. I got it!

Thank you so much. I'm counting on you! Please!

Hey, that's not singing, that's screaming!

Wait. Could that be Goldie? It looks tired.

Yeah, let's take a closer look.

Uhmoo... Mooom... Moo... Muhh...

Goldie!

Mooo.

I think it's Goldie.

She really does look tired. It'll be hard to make it back home like this.

Here, eat this. It'll give you some energy.

Mooo!! Moo... moo!

Great, it seems like she's feeling better now.

What was that song we had to sing?

Ahem! "Moo, moo, yellow cow, have you any milk?"

Moo... Moo...

That's right, Goldie. Get back home safe, alright?

Mooo.

What the? Why are you so good at singing? I had no idea.

Hah! I was part of the Rainwood Monastery's children's choir!

Over there! Another cow!

It's surrounded by youkai. Let's help!

M-mooo... Moo... ooo...

Golda! Are you Golda?

Come on, Golda. You're okay now!

M-moo... Moo...oo

Hey! She's scared. Don't yell at her.

Hey, Golda. You're so scared, aren't you?

Moo... Moo...

I know. You're okay now.

Let's go back home. Goldie will be waiting for you.

Now, Cloud.

Okay, ahem. I'm ready.

"Moo, moo, yellow cow, have you any milk?"

Mooo! Mooo!

That's right. Get back safe, Golda. Goldeen will be home soon.

Verna. There are two cows here.

You're right. Which one is Goldeen?

Oh! Sing the song, Cloud.

That'll make Goldeen start heading home.

Okay, got it.

"Moo, moo, yellow cow, have you any milk?"

Look! One of them is starting to head towards town!

Whose house is that cow from, then?

I don't know... Let's check!

You! You're that youkai, right?

Mewww... Kekek.

Mew, mew, mew... Keke...

Hey! Got you! You're a youkai!

Kek... Meww, mew, mew!

Come on. That's a cow.

I don't think it belongs to anyone, though, so no one'll mind if we turn it into stew meat.

Mew! Mew! Meww!! Kekek... Mew! Mewwww!

I don't know why you transformed into a cow, but...

We'll let you go this once. Don't ever do it again, though, okay?

Kekek. S-sorry.

Ack, creepy! Don't ever talk again, either, okay?

Meww...

How about we go back and check if the cows arrived safely?

Oh! You're back. Goldeen just came home too! They're all back!

That's a relief. It's the first time I've seen a youkai disguised as a cow, stealing cows.

Just as I thought! It was a youkai's doing!

Now that I think about it, I heard a story as a child.

A story about someone who was so incredibly lazy that he turned into a cow.

What? Being lazy can make you turn into a cow?!

Indeed, but that story was definitely about a human becoming a cow.

Hmm... Maybe it just wanted a friend.

What? A friend?

Oh no, it's nothing. But, you should keep your barn locked up from now on.

Yes, thank you very much. I won't forget this.

You can do this!

Hey, you! You're a dokkaebi! What's a dokkaebi doing here?!

Please don't yell! I'm not gonna hurt anyone!

What are you hiding here for? Are you planning some kind of trick?

No!

I... I actually want to become human!

A long time ago, I heard about a bear who ate a bunch of garlic and became a human.

That means, if you eat only garlic for a hundred days, then boom! You'll become human!

What? That's ridiculous.

Please please please please PLEASE get me some garlic.

Hm... Okay. But I'm not sure you'll like how it tastes.

Where are we supposed to get garlic all of a sudden?

Oh! I have an idea!

Excuse me, are you still there?

Shh, be quiet. The youkai will hear!

It's okay now. There aren't any dokkaebi nearby.

Oh my gosh. Your voice is so loud! Why?! What is it?!

We were hoping you could get us some garlic. It's urgent.

Sure, I could get you all the garlic you need.

But, there's a group of youkai near here...

Just get rid of them, and I'll give you a whole bushel of garlic. What do you think?

Sounds good! We'll be back soon.

The youkai are gone now. You can come out.

Phew, that's a relief, but there's no way of knowing when or where those youkai will strike next!

Come on, I think they'd find a talking jar way more interesting than just some guy.

Anyway, can we have that garlic you promised us?

Over there. It's in that sack. Over there, see?

Take as much as you want.

Yes, thank you. I hope we can actually see you next time.

Let's just take this much for now.

I doubt that dokkaebi will be able to stomach much.

Here, garlic. Want to try one?

Thank you. Alright! One bite...

N-no! Don't do that. Just take a nibble.

Om nom nom...

Aaaack. Ptooey! Why does it taste like that?!

And just think. You've got a hundred days of this.

Why do you want to become human anyway?

I want to become human so I can play jegichagi and run around with friends.

I'm gonna make it the whole hundred days!

Hm... okay. Good luck.

He might just actually pull it off...

Even if he does, wouldn't he just end up as a dokkaebi who smells like garlic?

*Sigh,* when are those dokkaebi going to disappear...?

Those damn dokkaebi... Gosh.

What's wrong?

I was returning to Naksan with the pojol after finishing our shifts...

We were ambushed by some kkaebi, and my pojol got possessed and totally lost their minds.

I fled in fear, and now I'm too ashamed to set foot back into the government office.

Did you see where the kkaebi came from?

Umm... oh, yes! They came from a song pouch! I'm sure.

Please save my pojol!

Okay, don't worry. We'll be back soon.

Why are there so many song pouches?

There's no way of knowing which one is real then!

Let's take care of the possessed pojol first!

It's not this one. There are no kkaebi.

Not this one either. This will take forever...

We need to come up with another plan.

We need to find the pouch hiding the dokkaebi.

We can't tell which one is real.

Meow.

Huh? $CAT_NAME$? Do you know something?

Meow. Meowww.

Hey! Where are you going?

I think it senses something. Let's follow it.

Ahh, it's a dokkaebi!

You're really amazing. How did you find it?

Welcome. A few have already returned to Naksan!

That's good news. Here's the song pouch.

Oh, thank you so much.

It would've been hard to find. You're amazing.

We have a special friend who can find anything.

Oh, really? I should ask for favors like this more often then.

Anyway, I wonder when this chaos will settle down.

Don't be too discouraged. There will be peace one day.

Haha. I guess so. Thank you for your kind words.

Hey, you two. I was just about to look for you.

Wow. You're not randomly angry at us today.

When have I ever gotten...!

...Sorry, almost lost my temper there.

Wow... You're trying to keep a cool head? What's going on?

Well, I'd like a favor, so I can't just yell at you.

Yeah, I thought so.

Have you ever heard the terms "hairy" and "baldy"?

No, never.

"Hairy" is a rude name for beastkin, and "Baldy" is a rude name for humans.

This isn't how we foster a diverse and welcoming workplace! It's unacceptable.

We've had reports of soldiers throwing these terms around lately.

Will you please take a look into this disorder in the ranks?

Sure, sounds easy enough... but couldn't you do this?

I tried, of course. But I couldn't catch any soldiers using those words.

I'm their commanding officer! They clam up around me.

Hmm, where should we start?

We don't have any leads yet, so let's just ask whoever.

Huh? Who are you?

Could I ask you something? Are you familiar with the terms "hairy" and "baldy"?

H-hairy?! Who's saying that?!

I suppose I could understand hairless humans being jealous.

So have you heard them or not?

If any of my soldiers used that kind of language, I'd show them where to shove it!

Hmm, okay.

Is there a problem?

Someone requested we ask around:

Do "hairy" and "baldy" mean anything to you?

Baldy? Like that we don't have fur? What about that?

We heard some of the pojol have been calling each other those names.

Nah, that can't be. I'm always on top of the newest slang.

That's not a thing. You can head back. There's nothing to worry about.

Oh... I see.

That dumb baldy... Why does he want to come after-hours?

Maybe I should shave his head, too... Make him bald all over.

Huh? I just heard someone say "baldy..."

Oh... really?

Sounds like you have a lead, then? You should find some answers there.

Hello, excuse us.

Who are you? Do you need something?

Do you know anything about the words "baldy" and "hairy"?

Wh-why?! Who's asking?!

Ah, she definitely knows something.

Captain Yeowool asked us to find soldiers using rude language. Something about "hairy" and "baldy"...?

Captain Yeowool?! Why?!

We heard they were words that humans and beastkin use to mock each other.

N-no! It's nothing like that!

It's like a nickname. There's no problem here!

Really? Do you have proof that they aren't super rude?!

Well... Okay, fine! Both of you, follow me!

Han Imun! There you are!

Hey, hair, I mean, Harin... Who are your new friends?

They're adventurers hired by Captain Yeowool.

Yeah, she wanted us to find people using the words "hairy" and "baldy".

Err... It's just something we call each other. Is that a problem?

They kind of sound like you're calling each other slurs.

Oh... Maybe we've been a bit too loud in mixed company.

It's all in good fun. There's no need to worry.

Is that the truth? Or are you lying so we'll leave you alone?

You know. Sometimes bullies will pretend to be your friend as part of their bullying.

N-no! It's not like that!

Well, that's for Captain Yeowool to judge.

No, really! That can't be true because... we're dating!

What?! Harin?! What are you...?

Shh!

I-It's totally normal for couples to call each other pet names, right?

...If that's true, who am I to judge?

Alright. I hope you're very happy together.

No... uh... actually...

Can it, Imun! You know Captain Yeowool gets super weird about fraternization!

I feel like we're making it worse.

Whatever! We're good friends! Can we just drop this now?

Hm, what should we do, Verna?

Let's just report back what we heard. We don't have anything better to say.

We're back!

Good work. What did you find out?

No one's mocking anyone. They're just dorky pet names a beastkin and human couple's been calling each other.

Nobody else was using the words besides those two, so I don't think there's anything to worry about.

A beastkin and human... couple?

Yeah. Is that a problem?

No! If fact, it's the opposite of a problem!

We should celebrate! I can't believe such a beautiful love bloomed in Naksan!

How incredible for a beastkin and a human to overcome the differences of their species and find love!

I'll do whatever it takes to ensure they have a happy ending! They have my full support!

...The more precedents there are, the better. Then I can... hehe.

Ahem! Mark my words! I shall make sure those two get married!

I'll invite you two to the wedding! Look forward to it!

Oh! A wedding party, great!

Why do I feel like we just made a mess...

It's fine. What's good is good.

What do you two take this place for? Always walking in like you own the place.

Who cares? More importantly, do you have any work for us, mister?

Really? How about you help out with some chores here?

If you want chores done, wouldn't it be faster to ask your soldiers?

Some things are a bit difficult for government officers to approach head on.

I said it was a chore, but I'll file an official request and provide proper compensation.

What is it?

Have you heard of chunhwa?

It's artwork people make, but, well, they draw... naked men or women, you know...

They're lewd drawings of people doing the deed?

Not so loud! People can hear you!

My goodness! Kids these day!

You just asked us if we know about chunhwa. Why are you yelling?

Anyway, is there a problem with the chunhwa?

It is just a rumor at this point, but I've heard there's someone in the marketplace making secret sales.

Even my pojol are in a frenzy to try to get their hands on some.

So what? You want us to get you some?

Don't be ridiculous! A man of my age...

You two will be finding and arresting the artist producing the images.

Are we allowed to just... arrest people?

I will lend you my seal.

With this in hand, most people won't even try to argue with you.

If you'll handle the matter, see Yeowool for the details.

Why are you guys here? Did you speak with Lord Sanhae?

He had a request for us. Someone's been circulating chunhwa images.

Hmm... Why would he put adventurers on this case?

Ahem, that's government business. You two can forget about it.

But we still need to do the request we accepted.

No, I mean...

...We can't speak here. Let's talk someplace else.

Huh? Okay, I guess that's fine.

Lord Sanhae assigned this task to me... Why did he...?

Does he not trust me...? Hmph.

Ahem. I won't beat around the bush.

Wash your hands of this matter. I will take care of it.

...You brought us here just to say that?

I could get in trouble if Lord Sanhae finds out, so...

I don't know why you're doing this, but it puts us in a tough spot.

I will talk to Lord Sanhae for you.

If you want compensation, I'll pay instead.

Huh? If you're going to pay us for doing nothing, then...

Verna...

I'm joking.

An adventurer's reputation is everything!

Even if you just want us to drop the request, we need to talk to our client first...

I'll take care of that!

Lord Sanhae made the request, so we'll continue the investigation. And that's that! Okay?

Ugh... You're really stubborn!

Why is Captain Yeowool so eager to stop us?

I'm not sure. Maybe she wanted to claim all the credit.

Hmm... Do you think that's it?

Hello, are you the owner of this bookstore?

Yes, can I help you find anything?

Chunhwa.

And the person that draws what you sell here.

Ah-ahem! Shh! We don't sell that stuff here. And you should know better than to go around asking for it!

We're here with a request.

He wanted us to show you this.

A seal?! Lord Sanhae's seal?

Actually... a man did try to sell me some chunhwa just a while ago.

Great! We'll be able to catch him pretty easily then!

Yes, he should still be nearby. The pojol standing guard should probably know. Ask him.

That fellow is pretty famous around here, so just say you're looking for Sujae. He should know.

That was easier than expected.

Hurry, let's go!

Who are you?

Oh, will you take a look at this first?

Is this Lord Sanhae's seal?! H-how do you... I mean, how can I help you...?

The soldiers here are pretty submissive to authority.

That's good, though. It'll make things go faster.

Do you know a person named Sujae? He draws chunhwa.

Oh, you're talking about that pain in the neck.

We keep kicking him out of Naksan, and he keeps trying to come back.

Does selling chunhwa make much money?

No, I don't think he cares about the money.

I think he said one of his biggest fans lived in Naksan, so he had to come.

Uh-huh... I see...

Ah! He's right over there!

That's him?! Got it.

Cloud! Let's go!

Huh? Who are you guys?

Are you Sujae?

You know my name. Does that mean you're interested in my artwork?

No, we're here to arrest you.

Arrest me?! I haven't done anything terribly wrong!

Well... Here, I don't think they appreciate your artwork.

N-no! What about my fans?! They're waiting for me!

Yeah, yeah. We can talk about that later, at the government office.

You two! Are you still here?!

We found the chunhwa artist, Captain Yeowool!

What are you talking about?! This man has nothing to do with chunhwa! You're free to go, sir.

Huh...? But the pojol said..!

Th-thank you, Miss Yeowool!

Huh? What? You're letting him go? Seriously?!

You're just going to let that sketchy guy go?

I already told you! I have this investigation under control!

Yeah, and we accepted a request.

Argh! Seriously! What is your deal?!

Once we accept a request, we've got to finish it. Adventurer's honor.

Let's chase after him, Verna.

Oh! You scared me.

Did you see someone like that go this way?

Uh... yes. He seemed to be in a rush and ran thataway.

Why, is he a criminal?

No. I mean, not one who's done anything violent.

Let's go, Cloud!

Did you get the feeling Yeowool was trying to block our investigation on purpose?

Come on... Why would she do that?

She's been acting suspicious this whole time.

W-wait! Will you spar with my pojol for a bit?

You want us to spar? Now?!

Stop getting in our way and move!

Please teach them some good moves!

There's no doubt about it now.

You're working with him, aren't you?

Uhh... Listen to me first...

That man is a criminal, according to the law... That's true...

But... How should I explain this... If you really think about it, should he be...?

Stop beating around the bush and get to the point.

Uh... I... I invited him...

What?

But I never meant to cause any problems! Please understand!

I just see the beauty within his drawings... or something like that...

Aha, yes! It was fate! Fate that our paths crossed! This man creates chunhwa, but it's so much more than that!

His drawings are works of art, and he shouldn't be treated like a criminal. Art shouldn't be illegal!

I wanted to bring him out of the shadows, so his art could be recognized and accepted by the public...!

...And maybe I also wanted to see human erotica...!

It's all my fault! I caused this whole mess, so let this man go! Please!

*Sigh...* What should we do, Cloud?

We should be honest.

No...

Trying to bury the case was corrupt. You should know better. Do you have anything to say?

No...

Let's report back then, Verna.

...That's what happened.

Yeowool...

I'm sorry, Lord Sanhae... It's all my fault.

*Sigh...* No wonder the case wasn't making any progress with you on it.

Hey, you. I never saw you here. Leave Naksan at once.

Th-thank you, my lord!

Just leave the money you've earned here. We need to save face.

Of course, sir!

And Yeowool, I'll consider this a momentary lapse in judgment and let it slide. However...

In the future, report back everything, no matter your personal feelings.

Yes, I'm so sorry...

Well now, it seems I'm in your debt.

Can I trust you to keep the circumstances of this request a secret?

Of course. My lips are sealed.

We'll be receiving extra compensation since there were complications, right? Hehe.

Gosh... This man...

Excuse me. Is something the matter?

Uh...

This is my husband. He's just completely drunk.

Oh, it's not that serious then.

Yes, it's nothing too serious, but...

It's foolish behavior, and he could use a good smack on the back. I'm trying to sober him up.

He won't remember being smacked when he's drunk.

So I was hoping you could get me some hangover curing medicine called Full Bloom.

Sure. We can do that, but wouldn't it be a lot cheaper to go and get it yourself?

What if something happens to him while I'm gone?

I'll be here babysitting my pathetic husband. Please get me that medicine.

What are you looking for today?

We need some medicine called Full Bloom.

Huh? Why? You kids shouldn't be drinking yet!

Come on, we would never. It's for a request.

What to do... I'm out of ingredients for right now, so I can't make any Full Bloom.

We can get the ingredients.

Oh, I would be so grateful. I'll give you a discount on the medicine.

I need a plant called a moonlight fern... Here, I'll draw you a picture so that you know what it looks like.

This seems like enough.

Alright, let's head back!

Very good. You've brought the ingredients.

Here, I've finished making the medicine.

But seeing as this person needs Full Bloom... I can already tell that they're a big drinker.

How?

It's great for curing hangovers, but for most people, more common medicines will suffice.

The ingredients for Full Bloom are difficult to procure, and most don't have the skill to make it.

So it's a last resort for when you're really sick from drinking.

Hm... Did that man look that bad?

Well, anyway. Here it is.

Huh? Where did that lady from before go?

Hmm... Should we just give him the medicine first?

Ergh... Ugh... Who are you guys?

Are you okay?

Oh oops... I must've passed out drunk again.

Urgh... my head...

I don't know who you are or why you're giving me this medicine, but thanks. I owe you one.

Huh?! Ah! My pack is gone!

No wonder. I thought something was missing.

Did you guys take my stuff?!

Don't be stupid. Why would we help you if we were thieves?

Your wife asked us to get the medicine for you.

My wife? Was she a very beautiful woman?

I guess so...?

Dang! I've been swindled...!

I figured something was odd when she began making me drink so much!

Oh no... She wasn't your wife? She tricked us, too.

H-hey! Where did that woman go?!

She told us to get her that hangover medicine and disappeared.

She was trying to buy time by making us find an uncommon medicine!

No! This is a disaster!

...You should be more careful.

Doodle... where are you?

Excuse me, but have you seen Doodle?

Doodle? Who's that?

He's the house rooster. I raised him since he was a chick.

He's never left our yard before...

Will you find Doodle for me? I'm still on duty...

Sure, we can help, but there's probably a lot of roosters in Naksan other than Doodle...

He was here just a bit ago, he couldn't have gotten far. Please, I'm begging you!

Okay! We'll start looking around here first.

Do we need to search the entire city?

Let's start by searching the main street.

Huh? A chicken!

Oh no... It's not breathing.

You're right. But this rooster might not be the one we're looking for... Let's ask.

Shiny red feathers... a scar on his beak.

No!!! Doodle...!

So this is Doodle... I'm so sorry.

I don't know who did this, but they're gonna get it!

Please find the culprit that did this to Doodle. Please!

But, how would we find them?

Who would kill a chicken in the middle of the street?

You're right. This was probably the doing of a youkai who wouldn't care about what people think.

Please investigate the Naksan youkai for the culprit.

Okay, we'll investigate. Don't worry too much.

Cloud, there's a little youkai over there!

Hi there, do you happen to like chicken?

Beep, beep!

Well, we found a dead chicken nearby and were wondering if you killed it.

Beep, Beeeepp!!

Okay, okay. Then, did you see anybody else harm the chicken?

Beeep, beep, beep!

Huh? A yellow dog? A yellow dog was carrying around a chicken?

Beep, beep, beeepp, beep.

It went to Beomgol with another chicken just now?

Beep, beeepp!!!

Got it. Sorry for the misunderstanding, and thanks for the information.

We need to go look for a yellow dog in Beomgol!

Over there! Look! Is it that dog?

Hey, you!

Ruff! Ruff!

He seems friendly, doesn't he, Verna?

*Whimper...* Ruff! Ruff!

Yeah, you're right. Why would such a nice little guy go after chickens?

Anyway, we have the culprit, so we should report back.

Did you catch the culprit? Who was it?

We did, but...

It was a friendly little dog.

What? It was a dog, not a youkai?

Yeah. He's friendly to people, but it does seem like he killed Doodle.

Hmm... If he's a stray, then I understand.

He must have been really hungry with no one to feed him.

Yes, that could be true.

I'm not unsympathetic, but I'll have to speak to Lord Sanhae about this.

Killing chickens is a crime, after all.

Right, but no more chickens should go missing now.

So... I hope the doggy doesn't get in too much trouble.

I'm glad you're here. I could use a favor.

Huh? What is it?

A dokkaebi named Konji just turned himself in.

But he keeps begging me to let him meet some woman.

He says he's willing to be sealed away in the shrine right away as long as he can just see her one last time.

How does he know the woman?

According to his story, it seems like they were a couple a long time ago.

I sympathize with his situation, but I can't give any help, officially.

So I thought of you two. What do you say?

Okay, let's meet that dokkaebi Konji first.

Thank you.

What's it now?!

Calm down. We're here to help you.

We heard you were looking for someone.

How do you know that?

The boss here sent us to help you.

Hah. He didn't even try to listen before.

Her name is Yeonji.

I hoped to get help from humans by turning myself in, but... it's not as easy as I thought.

It's okay. We'll look for her.

Really? Please. She's very special to me.

Let's ask Lord Sanhae first.

So, what happened?

He's looking for someone named Yeonji.

Hm... I don't think that's a familiar name...

Oh, Grandma Soonja knows about most people living in this area. She lives in Beomgol.

She's traveled around for many years, selling jelly.

How about you try asking her?

Okay, we'll visit her.

Hello, ma'am?

Hello, are you here for some more jelly?

No, we were wondering if you knew about someone named Yeonji.

Someone is desperately looking for her.

Yeonji is...

That's the name of my third daughter. Yeonji...

I don't know which good-looking fellow is searching for her, but she left this world a long time ago.

What? She left... this world?

That's war.

She was buried in the Forest of Fireflies, but I can never visit because it's so dangerous there.

The bracelet Yeonji always wore should be in front of her grave...

Alright, we'll go for you. We'll look for the bracelet too.

Really? Thank you so much. Be careful, that place is full of dokkaebi.

Verna, there are too many dokkaebi here!

I think this is where the grave was, but there's nothing here.

One of the dokkaebi around might know something. Let's ask.

Hey, you!

Have you seen a grave around here?

Kekeke... Foolish humans.

We destroyed... anything that smelled like human... a long time ago.

You little!

Stop, Verna. He's already beat.

Let's get back to Soonja and tell her what happened.

I can already tell by your expressions... You couldn't find Yeonji's bracelet.

Yes, we're sorry. Ma'am... you're daughter's grave was... I mean...

I assumed as much. The dokkaebi wouldn't have left a human grave intact.

But, wasn't it a dokkaebi who was looking for Yeonji?

Yes... It was actually a dokkaebi named Konji.

Just as I thought... They were in love, but I didn't approve of it.

Now that I think back, I regret being so harsh to them.

It would be great if we could all live in harmony one day...

That day will definitely come.

I believe this is a letter that my daughter wrote, please deliver it to him.

And tell him that Yeonji is very well, so not to worry.

Okay, ma'am. Your daughter is in a good place.

Go on now. I'm going to cook up a big batch of jelly and share it with the village.

So, did you find Yeonji?

Sorry, but Yeonji... has already passed away.

...She's not of this world anymore?

Yeah, a long time ago. I think she wrote this letter for you.

Give me a minute.

To Konji, who I miss dearly.

I know. You didn't want to hurt me.

You left for me.

When this war ends, we'll be able to see each other again.

Let's run away together then.

I heard of a land across the sea.

A land where we can be accepted together.

I don't know when that'll happen.

I'll wait for you until that day comes.

From Yeonji, who loves you so.

I was... late.

I was much too late. Yeonji was waiting for me...

Don't blame yourself. She's probably watching over you right now.

I'll be sealed away in the shrine soon.

I don't know how to thank you.

If I ever awaken again...

I will do my best to create a world where dokkaebi and humans can live in together.

We know you will.

I will repay this kindness. Dokkaebi don't live indebted to others.

Alright, make sure you do that. I hope you get us a bunch of expensive jewels.

Hahaha. I'll make it happen.

Stay well until then.

Hey, you. Over here.

U-us...?

Who else would I be talking to?

You two smell a bit unusual.

What? I guess we're not from around here, but telling us we smell is...

No. I'm not talking about that kind of smell.

Have you been to someplace special recently?

You have such great complexions... I'm just curious where you gained such pure energy.

Hm... Someplace special...? I guess the Elemental Sanctum counts as special.

Oh. Isn't that accessible only to those pointy-eared folk from across the sea? How did you get in?

Ah, you've heard of it? The Elf Queen granted us special access.

Uh-huh.

What's on your mind? Your reaction makes me think you're up to no good.

You're pretty sharp. Alright then, without further ado, reach into this box and pull out the first thing that your hand touches.

Hm... What is this? An old hat? Is it... vintage?

Vintage...? Well, I guess that's not wrong. This item was decided the moment you reached into the box.

Buy it. I'll give it to you for cheap.

Wait, luck or whatever aside, it's still just an old hat. Who would buy this?

You will buy this.

No...

You will.

I'm telling you, no.

You want this right now. You want this right now. You want this right now. You want this right now. You want this right now.

What are you doing?! What even is this?

This isn't just junk. It's exactly what you need right now, given your fortune. Even I don't know what's in the box!

If you keep this with you... you'll become unhealthy, sad, and unlucky.

Yeah, so why in the world would we buy this from you?

Because you two have the power to control it.

We do?

Yes. If you take this to a locus of pure energy, like the Elemental Sanctum...

You'll likely face an even greater trial.

Yeah, so why would we buy this and face a greater... A greater trial...? C-could it be...?

Greater trials?

Will... only make you even stronger...?

That's right! Plus, as a bonus, you'll wash away all the bad vibe trapped on this thing. Around here, we call that a "salpuri."

Anyway, continue gathering merits like that, and good fortune will follow you naturally.

Ah... Now I feel ready for a challenge!

M-me too...

Haha. Now, pick one. You never know what you might get!