PLAYER ’ S GUIDE

Everything a player needs to start their

adventure in Danguk!
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2 Undying Corruption: Player’s Guide

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Undying Corruption
Author Minki Kim
Additional Writing Connie Chang, KappaChris, Theta Chun, Jin Sol
Developers James Beck, Jeremy Blum, Indigo Cardosa, Minki Kim, Jason Marlor, The Mithral Canvas, Daniel
Velazquez
Editors Jeremy Blum, S. Jeon (Dan/단), Jason Marlor, Jin Sol
Cover Artists Alex Ahad, Kem Mackey
Interior Artists Alex Ahad, Mychal Amann/Swampkips, Blazemalefica, Candlehag, Hanghul/May, Kaitlin
“Charlie” Edlund, Alana Fan, Kayla Felty, Christian “Cee” Humphries, Angela Kim, Jeong Kim, Min Kim,
KittBetelgeuse, Kem Mackey, MLarty, Nidhi Naroth, Airi Pan, Jenny Park, Refrynn (WeirdUndead), A. R.
Stefansdottir, Vanessa Wei, Emily Whang, H. Won, Yeabin/judgedarts, G. Eunae Yim, Chagok Yun
Layout Artist Kaitlin “Charlie” Edlund
Translator S. Jeon (Dan/단)
Kickstarter Trailer Angela Chong, Dale North, Ty Wood, Suzie Yeung
Playtesters Hadassa “Dassa” Adamczyk, Alice, Eunju Baek/ActualEGremlin, Jáhna Hall/Snardart, Kitsu, Erik
Ottosen, Beardy Plaisance, Joe Spangler, KayLynn Spears, Tony Woo
Special Thanks Josephine Kim, Adrián Mejia, StellalunaTV, Strofel, Zac/Three Plus Press, and everyone who
made this possible through Kickstarter

Undying Corruption: Player’s Guide 3

 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pronunciation Guide ............................... 5 Magic in Danguk.................................... 79
Introduction and Primer on Korean Campaign House Rules.......................... 81
Culture.................................................... 6 Skill and Tool Proficiencies.................... 82
Setting....................................................... 9 Languages................................................ 83
People of Danguk................................... 15 Society..................................................... 83
Provinces................................................. 20 Factions................................................... 83
Races........................................................ 24 Cosmology............................................... 88
Dokkaebi................................................................ 24
Divinities................................................. 91
Gumiho.................................................................. 26
Backgrounds......................................... 102
Jangseung............................................................... 28
Timeline................................................ 105
Lunamorph............................................................ 30
Noru....................................................................... 32 The Kyougen Federation...................... 111
Sangun.................................................................... 34 Long Xin............................................... 119
Subclasses................................................ 36
Barbarian: Path of the Unbound.......................... 36
Bard: College of Ink............................................... 38
Cleric: Hearth Domain......................................... 40
Druid: Circle of the Medium................................ 42
Fighter: Deadeye.................................................... 44
Monk: Way of the Dosa......................................... 46
Paladin: Oath of the Mystics................................. 49
Ranger: Emissary of Paradise................................. 51
Rogue: Naraka Prosecutor.................................... 53
Sorcerer: Nine-Tailed Soul..................................... 55
Warlock: Jeoseung Saja Patron.............................. 57
Wizard: School of Astromancy............................. 59
Class: Tactician....................................... 61
Art of the General.................................................. 66
Art of the Hwarang............................................... 66
Art of the Sancheok............................................... 69
Stratagems.............................................................. 70
Weapons.................................................. 73
Spells........................................................ 74

4 Undying Corruption: Player’s Guide

Pronunciation Guide Society
Baekjeong (백정) - Beck-jung
Ancestries Cheonmin (천민) - Chun-meen
Danguk (단국) - Dahn-Gook
Dokkaebi (도깨비) - Doh-kkeh-bee
Jungin (중인) - Joong-een
Gumiho (구미호) - Goomee-hoh
Nobi (노비) - Noh-bee
Sangun (상군) - Sahn-goon
Sangmin (상민) - Saang-meen
Yangban (양반) - Yahng-bahn
Cosmology Geum Yoon (금윤) - G’m Yoon
Bari (바리) - Bah-rhee Goryeo (고려) - Goh-ryuh
Dangun (단군) - Dahn-goon Gyerim (계림) - Geh-rheem
Eopshin (업신) - Up-sheen Jumong (주몽) - Joo-mohng
Gameunjang-agi (가믄장 아기) - Gah-m’n-jahng- Muryeong (무령) - Moo-ryuhng
ah-ghee Oh Muwon (오무원) - Oh Moo-wuhn
Gucheon (구천) - Goo-chuhn Seonghyo (성효대왕) - Suhng-hyoh
Hallakgungi (할락궁이) - Hal-lahk-Goong-ee Samjok-O (삼족오) - Sahm-johk-oh
Hwanin (환인) - Hwahn-een Seongdeok (성덕왕) - Suhng-duhk
Hwanung (환웅) - Hwahn-oong Sureung (서륭) - Suh-ryoong
Iseung (이승) - Ee-s’ng Taejo (태조) - Teh-joh
Jeongrang Gakshi (정랑 각시) - Juhng-rahng Wang Geon (왕건) - Wahng Guhn
Gahk-shee Yeongcheon (영천) - Yuhng-chun
Jeoseung Saja (저승사자) - Juh-seung Sah-jah Yi Gyeong (이경) - Ee Gyuhng
Jowangshin (조왕신) - Joh-wahng-sheen Yoon Miteum (윤믿음) - Yoon Mee-deum
Munshin (문신) - Moon-sheen
Samgong (삼공) - Sahm-gohng
Sobyeolwang (소별왕) - soh-byul-wahng
Seonangshin (서낭신) - Suh-nang-sheen
Seongjushin (성주신) - Suhng-joo-sheen
Teojushin (터주신) - Tuh-joo-sheen
Ungnyeo (웅녀) - ‘Ng-nyuh

Undying Corruption: Player’s Guide 5

 Intro and Primer on Korean Culture conflagrations of the 20th century (Japan’s occupation
of Korea, the Rape of Nanking, the Korean War, the
The legendary god-king Dangun founded the first Vietnam War) whose legacies Asians live through, we
Korean kingdom of Gojoseon in the early 7th century also do not feel that this medium of a fantasy TTRPG
BC, organizing the descendants of tribes that existed can properly convey the gravity of the events that took
since the Paleolithic period. Over the course of that place. Through our mutual exploration of this turning
history, dynamics with larger, more powerful countries point in history however, we hope to further explore
shaped and challenged the country’s identity. A self- our common history of cultural exchange to appreciate
exiled military leader, Wei Man, of the defeated country that such events weren’t and aren’t inevitable.
of Yan in China during their Warring States period
seized power, becoming Korea’s first Chinese ruler. We must be honest about our histories while
The Han Dynasty twenty years later seized land and respecting each others’ unique cultural identities.
maintained a commandery for four centuries through Injustice exists and our setting is in no way a utopia or
changing dynasties until the land was re-conquered by dystopia. We only present a vision of East Asia where
Goguryeo. mythology thrives that we can explore in real time.
Echoes of conquest to colonization rippled North and South Divide
through history from the Mongol Empire and Yuan Today, Korea remains divided between the 38th
Dynasty subordinating Goryeo in the 13th century parallel into North and South following Japan’s
as a vassal state and the Japanese annexation of the surrender and relinquishing claims to the country
Korean Empire in the early 20th century. Within this in 1952. This book will not touch on this aspect of
dynamic, powerful nobles such as Joseon’s yangban history. Our setting is based on a time when Korea
organized society in such a way that privileged landed remained unified. To this day, whatever Koreans may
elites, exempting themselves from taxes, while pushing think about the governments ruling the two respective
the nation’s physical and financial burdens upon regions, they still desire to return together as people. In
commoners. Through this history, the Korean people characterizing the unique attributes of each region of
created a new word, “Han/한”, to describe the grief and our setting, we hope to give gamers a chance to play out
resentment they felt living against overwhelming odds a world in which these interactions are commonplace.
and a desire for reform amidst the anger.
Despite these sources of hardship, Korean culture Daily Life
and folklore has been built from the bottom, shaping Confucian ideals that became prominent during the
criticisms against the powerful into folklore and Joseon Dynasty remain embedded in Korean society.
valorizing resistance. To me, as evidenced through our The eldest of the family must be treated with utmost
arduous history, this is the true character of Korean respect while patriarchal norms both privilege and foist
culture. The spirit yearning for justice found in tales the greatest responsibility upon fathers. In Hangul,
of the nobleman-eating Yeongno and the avarice- the Korean language, people must use honorifics to
punishing Dokkaebi materializes through historical address and acknowledge those that rank higher than
events led by unified fronts of common people such them socially or in workplaces. To refrain from doing
as the Donghak Peasant Revolution and the Gwangju so is considered ill-mannered. Despite this, when you’re
Uprising. playing your characters in English, you needn’t abide
Speaking with my fellow writers, Connie and Kappa, by the precise formalities like using specific honorifics.
as we incorporate the histories of their settings based In practice, these codes and rules can slip in moments
on China and Japan, we’ve come to appreciate that the of passion or prejudice, sometimes taking on the
era we seek to fictionalize exists as a turning point to weight of burdens when people feel they can’t live up
the modern age. Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, China’s Ming to these responsibilities. Let these ideas serve as guides
Dynasty, and Japan’s Edo Period shaped the paths our and remember that there is always a time and place for
ancestors chose to reach the 20th and 21st centuries for everything: if your character doesn’t abide by these rules
better or for worse. Though we the writers of this book to the letter, then the player shouldn’t be punished
acknowledge our countries’ roles and actions in the beyond roleplaying.

6 Intro and Primer on Korean Culture

 Despite the patriarchal nature of Korea’s mainstream elements. Embroidery and knotwork such as Norigae,
society, Korean shamanism takes on a feminine were commonly used to enhance one’s outfit.
context, even as male priests carry out rituals. Heroines Many of Kyougen’s textiles and clothing styles are
of folktales like Jacheongbi and Princess Bari rise to both adapted, but distinct from Long Xia and Danguk.
divinity and bestow providence to priests that invoke In particular, the kimono and yukata have been
their names. As they listen to and help people through compared to Long Xia’s longfu and Danguk’s hanbok.
their ailments and troubles when all other means fail, Kimono and yukata are made of multiple pieces of
patriarchal norms collapse in favor of seeking help. fabric sewn together to form a T-shape wrapped
As the land in Danguk still benefits from the spiritual around the body. The kimono is lined and layered
power granted by the gods and shamans maintain a with multiple fabrics, while the yukata is a single layer
prominent role in society, even the upper class cannot of fabric, usually cotton. Both can be embroidered or
disenfranchise women to the degree of our real world’s dyed to the wearer’s taste or function, and accessorized
history and life. with belts or pins. One thing that sets the kimono and
Fashion yukata apart from the longfu and hanbok is the specific
fit. Where the longfu or hanbok are wide around the
Clothing during the Joseon Dynasty was strongly legs, the Kyougen localizations are generally tighter and
influenced by Confucian beliefs and strict class-based somewhat restrict movement.
hierarchies. Popular styles tended to obscure the body’s
silhouette and be quite modest while colors, fabric, and Food and Drink
even imagery were limited based on one’s place in the When preparing meals, Koreans prepare a hearty
social strata. assortment of appetizers called banchan/반찬.
Traditionally feminine garb consisted of the upper These include combinations of miniature side dishes
garment of the Hanbok, called a Jeogori paired with including kimchi, marinated sprouts, fried zucchini,
a billowing, pleated skirt called a Chima. Jeogori had fried tofu, black beans marinated in soy sauce and
wide, rectangle sleeves with large armholes and ended sesame oil, and other kinds of vegetables. From personal
anywhere from an inch beneath the breasts to down experience, neither of my parents start the day without
to one’s waist. They were typically tied across the chest a hot bowl of soup and banchan which they enjoy with
with decorative ribbons and adorned with removable rice. Hearty non-soup dishes may include bibimbap/
white collars. Sometimes they were paired with jackets, 비빔밥 (a mix of rice, chili paste, meat, veggies, and
whose sleeves extended past the Jeogori’s and over one’s fried egg), kimbap/김밥 (rice and seaweed rolls usually
hands. Chima had high waist bands, with long ribbon with vegetables and meat), jeon/전 (vegetable fritters),
sashes that could be used to tie them in place and and ssangchu ssam/상추쌈 (rice and meat wrapped in
typically were worn with a series of petticoats. lettuce).
For a more masculine look, a Jeogri was still popular Desserts exist too such as barley crackers, yakgwa
albeit with a different cut that extended down to (honey cookies), sweet rice cakes, shaved ice, or simply
the waist or even lower. This would be paired with a plate of fruit. Drinks include fruit, flower, corn,
a set of loose trousers called Baji, which were perfect grounded grains, barley tea, and shikye/식혜, a sweet
for squatting or quick movement. Other variations rice beverage of honey and pine nuts. Most alcoholic
depended largely on status or occupation, such as drinks are types of rice wines like soju/소주 and
the longer overcoats that tied with a sash at the waist makgeolli/막걸리, but exceptions exist like baekseju/
commonly worn by scholars or nobles. 백세주 (herbs and ginseng wine) and maesil-ju/
Common folk tended to wear clothing made of 매실주 (plum wine). You might have noticed that
hemp, cotton muslin, ramie, leather, or linen whereas rice and other grains are critical in a Korean diet: not
silk was preferred by the wealthy and noble. White was just as a side dish, but in much of our cooking. In the
the most common color choice, symbolizing purity 15th century, Koreans ate double to triple the amount
and integrity while those of the court favored additions of rice that the Chinese and Japanese did. Food is an
of red, yellow, blue, and black to represent the five important part of Korean life.

Intro and Primer on Korean Culture 7

 Architecture as “irreligious” practice the faith. It’s not uncommon
for adherents to also practice multiple religions,
In ancient times, the construction of an ideal Korean
recognizing harmony among their beliefs. Though
home always incorporates the natural environment
Japanese colonial powers and the South Korean
surrounding it. Geomancy was an important factor:
government of the 20th century attempted to suppress
the shapes of mountains, hills, rivers, and plains carried
the practice of Muism, it has seen increased popularity
a flow of energy that determined mood and fortune.
during periods of national or economic turbulence such
In this magical setting where indeed the land carries
as the IMF crisis in 1997. Muism, due to its feminine
powerful spiritual energy, these considerations must
gender coding of practices, empowers women into
be taken doubly seriously. Homes were built with an
positions of priesthood to commune with spirits, which
ondol/온돌 system of transferring heat through a
is viewed in contrast to patriarchal hierarchies in other
stove built in a lower level through the floor. Wealthier
beliefs such as Confucianism.
homes such as hanok/한옥 consist of multiple houses
and buildings, each with their own unique purposes, Koreans individually find empowerment and
all joined together between a courtyard decorated with meaning through faith, but sometimes in their
grass, trees, and stones. These estates are built with 99 journeys, they get taken advantage of by self-interested
rooms; no more than that to show deference to the king people posing as spiritual leaders. With over 300 active
whose palace contains 100 rooms. cults in Korea, many incorporate traces of Christianity,
Buddhism, or other beliefs into their dogma. The
Religion existence of these cults hint at systemic problems
In writing this, I would like to express beforehand unique to a country struggling with its search for
that as a Korean-American, I (Minki Kim) identify as identity, being in the midst of global powers while
Protestant. My aim in this section is to paint a broad rising economically. These abuses of leadership and
brush to give readers a most general view of perspectives trust heighten skepticism among Koreans that religion
on religion rather than delving too deeply into their should influence public and political life. Just as this
respective beliefs and tenets. tension exists in all countries, Koreans too struggle to
explore their spirituality in pursuit of community, inner
Korean surveys and census data, around 55% of
peace, and moral betterment.
Koreans reported being irreligious while Protestantism,
Catholicism, and Buddhism remained the three
dominant religions out of 44% of respondents. The
final 1%, largely consisting of convertants and their
descendents from the Korean War or South Korea’s
South and Southeast Asian migrant communities,
practice a mix of religions such as Hinduism, Islam,
Judaism, and Sikhism. Though largely a secular
country, the diversity of religion in Korea reflects
its history of cultural exchange, both on equal
terms and as colonial subjects with other countries.
Though Christian denominations secure about 25%
of the faithful in Korea, fundamentalist Protestant
institutions exercise outsized political influence and
have targeted Buddhism and indigenous faiths of Korea
with campaigns of arson and vandalism. They’re also
seen as major hurdles toward achieving LGBT rights in
Korea.
Muism, or native shamanistic faith, has been argued
by scholars to not be properly reflected by censuses
and it’s possible a large number of those who identify

8 Intro and Primer on Korean Culture

 THE SETTING The Mudang
A person becomes a Mudang in one of two ways;
Both the kingdom of Danguk and Iseung were dedication or birthright. Those who are born into an
designed to be compatible with any campaign setting, ancient bloodline, deeply connected to the gods, are
give or take some additions to suit the GM’s needs. The called hereditary Mudang. They are expected to take
worldbuilding outside of Danguk from countries to on the duties of their ancestors, serving to lead rituals
planes are left to the GM and the players to decide what and Guts, but have no special magical prowess of their
narrative elements they would like to introduce into own. The gods and spirits of the land are unable to
this campaign. communicate to or through hereditary Mudang and
they are largely unable to enter a trance outside of the
The people of Danguk refer to the material plane
spiritual sickness they experience upon being initiated.
they occupy as “Iseung”, or literally “This World”.
This subgroup of Mudang begins their training from
“Iseung” can also interchangeably be used to describe
birth.
the diplomatic network Danguk shares with other
nations. Other cultures might have different names for The second type of Mudang is commonly referred
their world, but the people of Danguk refer to it as such to as charismatic Mudang. Those that fall into this
because they understand the material world is merely category begin life as ordinary mortals and can be from
one stop in a near-infinite journey. Every creature in any race, creed, or social caste. Typically, signs of their
Iseung lives, dies, and passes on to Jeoseung, or literally future occupation start to shine through in adolescence
“That World”, where they will receive judgment for or early adulthood and can include things such as
their actions in life. The gods have willed the people of sudden bouts of weight loss, nightmares or visions, and
Iseung to be tempered by their suffering and eventually frequent unexplained illness. Supernatural creatures
reach a state of perfection. and spirits are drawn to these Mudang and families who
do not recognize their child’s calling early on may risk
losing them to possession.
Undying Corruption: Setting 9
 Both types of Mudang undergo years of training commune directly with gods and spirits, often
under a senior Mudang, usually referred to as a “Spirit undergoing possessions. Their task during this ritual
Mother” or “Spirit Grandmother”. They learn various is to find out what a restless spirit or Akryung desires,
arts including dance, instruments such as drums or or what ails them, and do everything in their power
bells, cooking, and sewing alongside spiritual practices to mediate between earth and the ethereal. Force is
such as trancing, rituals, and how to craft offerings. But sometimes necessary to tame a spirit’s restlessness to
before they can begin this training, a potential Mudang bring them to a proper conversation.
typically becomes affiliated by an intense spiritual Beware the Dark Mudang: The Mudang’s highest
sickness. Food becomes unappealing, vision blurs, responsibility is to mediate between the material realm
hallucinations and strange voices overwhelm the senses, and the occult, but a Dark Mudang surrendered to dark
and the body of the victim becomes extremely weak. wills from beyond. They harness evil spirits, gods, and
There are only two resolutions to this illness; death or the Akryung to curse the living world. Since the fall of
acceptance of one’s fate as a new Mudang. the Goryeo dynasty, Mudang have fallen astray, spurned
The Mudangs’ most advanced technique is to by a new order that treats them as second class citizens.
perform a ritual known as a “gut” wherein they Most revere and pray for the advent of the Emperor

10 Undying Corruption: Setting

of Darkness, an earthly vessel for all the evils of the mugwort, they must survive in the darkest pits of a cave
world, to wipe the lands clean of life. These Mudang far from sunlight for one hundred years. When they
are criminalized in Danguk as cultists and wicked left, they would achieve humanoid forms. It is said that
necromancers. Tiger in her impatience ate her meager rations and left,
but in truth, she gave her share to Bear. Bear wished to
DANGUK take on a form that could love Hwanung, and Tiger,
Creation simply wishing for Bear’s happiness, gave her her share
and left.
Danguk is a land originally founded by the gods of
Gucheon, the Heavenly Realm. Specifically, Hwanung, Bear left after a hundred years, now mortal, took on
the “Supreme Divine Regent”, wished to live alongside the new name of Ungnyeo and returned to Hwanung,
mortals and share with them the means of attaining winning his love. The two wed and bore a child, the
divinity. His father, Hwanin, or the “Heavenly King”, Dwarf, Dangun, who would become the first King
used his son’s desire as an opportunity. He wished to of Danguk. Hwanung grew old and having spent too
test a new system that enabled souls an opportunity much time in Iseung, his spiritual body decayed into
to ascend into a higher state of being instead of being a lesser, invisible deity, said to still be watching over
parceled out to the afterlives of various gods. The his lands. The Bear, the Dowager Queen of the newly
souls of every individual in Danguk will live multiple christened lands, helped and made sure Dangun, the
lifetimes already in different bodies, times, and social first mortal king, unified and brought prosperity to his
and economic circumstances. In death, they will be people.
delivered to Jeoseung, an afterlife of Hwanin’s design, Dangun, the Half-God King
to have their sins cleansed before sending them to start
anew in achieving divinity. Since the founding of Danguk, its fate has been
inextricably tied to the Realms Above the Heavens.
In doing so, someday, the god’s creations will Dangun sought to solidify his parents’ wish and
someday stand alongside their creators as equals. organized his country as an animistic theocracy.
Hwanung’s Reign Councils of Druids were appointed across the land to
communicate on behalf of people with the spirits and
After Hwanung descended onto Iseung, a divinity innate in all life. Those born in Danguk are said
sandalwood tree sprouted at the first spot he stepped to be more spiritually awakened. Many were victims of
on. The people (mostly humans, orcs, and elves) already possessions, often by souls that clung onto Iseung.
living in the lands, scattered into myriad, warring tribes
and factions, recognized his divinity. They accepted As a consequence of the cycle of rebirth becoming
the laws and moral codes of his new kingdom. In strictly contained in Danguk, more Undead who
turn, the people were also taught new forms of art and refused to pass on, called Gwishin, began appearing.
agriculture, and Hwanung bequeathed them with both They envied the living and sought to regain a semblance
medicinal techniques and divine magic. For centuries, of life. For some, jealousy warps into hatred and they
they lived in harmony under his rule and in his City of became Akryung, malevolent spirits terrorizing the
the Gods. living world. This happened with greater frequency as
more resisted passing on. Dangun dealt with this first by
Hwanung knew that in spite of his wish for a sealing the country, adopting a strict, isolationist policy
stronger connection between the divine and mortals, to contain the Akryung.
the latter could not ascend if they were dependent on
the former. Years after he agonized over how to leave He then took drastic measures for the sake of
his land to the people, two of his servants, the Divine bringing order to the land. To maintain his isolationist
Beasts, Bear and Tiger, sought his help. They wished to policy, he approached the most powerful dragons of
renounce their divinity, yearning for the imperfections the north, south, east, and west, and offered to speak
and happiness of mortals. on their behalf to Gucheon. The dragons were feared
by the mortals for their raw power over the skies, seas,
Showing them mercy, Hwanung offered the two and storms. Hwanung was wary whether they might
a test: with nothing but twenty bulbs of garlic and

Undying Corruption: Setting 11

 set their sights on Asadal, the City of the Gods to Akryung. Her influence in Jeoseung put a check on the
try and plunder it, but Dangun extended a hand to powers of the Narakwang, the brutal deities charged
them. The noblest and most powerful among them with judging the dead by Hwanin.
would be recognized by the gods each as rulers of the In honor of the Queen Dowager, who guided the
four cardinal directions. Unable to resist the allure land of Danguk through the reign of several kings, this
of becoming kings, the pact was sealed and the four organization between the land of the dead and these
Yongwangs agreed to help protect the lands from the awakened mortals came to be called the “Black Bear
Akryung. Clan”.
Dangun passed on and though the country was
stable, the Akryung continued to persist. The Queen The Emperor of Darkness
Dowager used her longevity to guide the rulers of For over 1500 years, Jeoseung has been dealing
Dangun to govern justly until she too passed on. with the difficult disposal of the malice left over after
This, and the discontent of the populace enabled the cleansing of a mortal’s soul. It was the proposal of
opportunistic nobles to divide the land by factional O-do Jeonryun of Customs, one of the Narakwang, to
lines. They were divided over whether to open the transfer the malice into a remote, empty plane. Yeomra
country as Long Xin and Kyougen influenced clans. the Regulator, highest of the Narakwang, approved,
allowing the sins and malice of mortals in Danguk to
Princess Bari and the Mudang gather together for over a millennium.
Meanwhile, during this period of turmoil, a noble’s When the first rift connected this plane to Danguk,
wife gives birth to her seventh consecutive daughter. the sludge of malice seeped into the lands, taking
The noble, furious, orders that she be thrown out into shape as legions of Akryung. The largest collective of
the wilderness, but is rescued by a kind, elderly couple. Akrying merged and possessed a single person to act as
Princess Bari, or the Abandoned Princess, grows to be a bessel for over a thousand year’s worth of hatred and
a strong woman under the couple’s loving care, but selfishness. They shared a single cacophonous voice
is still curious about her true parents. Learning that and a wish for the world’s end. Thus, the Emperor of
they’ve fallen deathly ill, she journeys into Jeoseung, Darkness was born whose terrible strength fractured
braving the perils of the Underworld, and procures the the tranquility of Danguk for years to come.
Flowers of Resurrection to heal her parents. This act of
profound charity, braving the harshest, planar climates The Emperor was only exorcised through a
and risk of capture by powerful Underworld monsters combined effort that required Hodamguk, the
despite having no extraordinary power, allowed her to Yongwang, and the Black Bear Clan. But the threat it
ascend into divinity. posed undermined the Mandate of Heaven that blessed
the rulers of the City of the Gods. This was but one of
Bari’s connection to Jeoseung granted her divinity the factors that ultimately saw the fracturing of Danguk
as a new Jeoseung goddess. Being one of the first to into smaller states that would desperately seek their
have ascended, Hwanin found Princess Bari’s ascension reunification.
as the proof he needed of the experiment’s success.
Bari, however, wasn’t pleased to find that the people’s
suffering in life and after was orchestrated by the deities
of Gucheon.
Instead of rebelling against them, she accepted her
position as goddess of the Jeoseung Saja. Tasked with
governing the messengers who claimed the land’s souls,
she reformed their practices to help ease the harsh
transition into death.
“Through these reforms, she gave death a kinder face
and tasked the Jeoseung Saja with guiding the dead to
their final resting places. This resulted in a reduction of

12 Undying Corruption: Setting

The Eras of Fracture A semblance of stability had finally been established
While the start of Danguk’s history is largely inspired when the Yongwang of the North intervened and set in
by existing myths and folklore, the following eras are motion a plan to infiltrate society through his brood.
parallel to Korea’s own history but in more broad With their cunning and influence, they overthrew the
strokes. The intent is to allow GMs and players to deranged despot at the helm of a land abandoned by
engage with true Korean history alongside traditional the gods and restored order. The Yongwang and the
fantasy. Wang Clan ruled under the pretense that mortals are
unfit for self-governance and would take a heavy hand
Through the Three Kingdoms era, the country was through a military dictatorship in leading them to meet
in constant turmoil. As states of varying sizes fought for the gods’ standards. Hwanin approved, overlooking the
their national interests. Gyerim, Saro, and Goguryeo Yongwang’s transgression and giving his blessing.
were among the most dominant at the time. All the
while, Danguk’s neighbor to the north, Long Xin, A general, Yi Gyeong, later King Taejo, would later
analogous to China, would expand its influence. revolt hundreds of years later against the government
of Goryeo, to free its people that had been stifled
Even through the Fractured Eras, though the under the Wang Clan’s repressive regime. He forged an
people deemed it important that their leader have alliance with the country’s bards and scholars whose
the legitimacy of divinity, leaders believed this less pursuits for knowledge were restricted by the order.
important than their own ambitions. It is a period At a time when the nation’s coffers ran dry, yet the
where the country of Danguk fully rebelled against the Wang Clan continued to pursue military expansion, Yi
whims of great Hwanin who later pulled his patronage Gyeong redirected his forces and marched against the
from the lands, enraged at the deplorable state of things. country’s hidden ruler: the Northern Yongwang. He
prevailed, returning sovereignty back to the mortals.
Undying Corruption: Setting 13
 The Age of Illumination
Danguk’s shift in priorities following the beginning
of the Age of Illumination allowed its scholars to
refocus on how the world had changed since the
country fractured. The Hall of Worthies, led by the
government’s Agency of Sage Arts, had
begun a mad dash to catch up to
the rest of the world. Their
efforts were fully funded
by the new government
resulting in the country’s
golden age.
Old pacts forged by
Dangun with the heavenly
realm of Gucheon and
the four Yongwang were
restored, returning divine power
into the land and the protection of
dragons. With the scholars’ successful
efforts at developing a practical
application of Astromancy,
which had already been a field
of interest in the Zhu Empire
and abroad, Danguk grew as
an independent force in the
region. This development
enabled Danguk to make
early contact with the
Lunamorphs, beginning a
trade in magical knowledge
and technology that
hastened Danguk’s
development.
Despite that, the Mudang
and the Black Bear Clan have
lost all institutional support
from Danguk’s government.
Having taken a neutral stance in
the centuries the Wang Clan ruled
Danguk, they are now ostracized from
society. Disorganized sects throughout the
land, shadows of their former selves, carry
the deed of exorcising the Akryung that still
roam the lands. The adventure starts in modern
Danguk, a time of great optimism in the country’s
history, but also of hidden dangers and societal
injustices overlooked by the country’s elites.

14 Undying Corruption: Setting

THE PEOPLE OF DANGUK They always represented the unvarnished desires of
mortals and this made them an object of revulsion,
envy, and awe. Few Dokkaebi even assimilated into
Danguk is home to diverse groups of people with society, though whenever one has a name people
varieties of ancestries, moreso in modern times as the remember, they often leave a mark on history.
country fully opened up to visitors and immigrants.
The Dokkaebi have most often been allies of the
The following descriptions of some basic facts and
Black Bear Clan, fighting against Akryung that they
statistics of how ancestries fare in Danguk should help
regard sometimes as wayward siblings. They operate
guide you as you create your character’s backstory.
in the margins of Danguk society, being part of
None of the following information is meant to decide
movements and efforts that the common people rarely
where your character should come from or how they
are privy to until they’re ready to explode. They’re
should have lived their lives.
rulers of Danguk’s night when the bureaucrats and
This section is meant only to set up some material ministers have gone to sleep.
foundations concerning the people of Danguk that you
can take into consideration. Dragonborn
Dragonborns are relatively common in Danguk
Dokkaebi following the pact Dangun forged with the Yongwangs.
The Dokkaebi began appearing after the fracturing The Yongwangs sanctioned their citizens to move up
of Danguk. People initially thought them to be an evil to the surface after Dangun designated Dragons as a
omen, a sign of the Emperor of Darkness’s lingering protected species (meaning it is forbidden to hunt and
presence in the world. In truth, as life grew more kill them, though this designation is annulled if the
difficult in Danguk and spiritual energy remained Dragon has been found to have harmed the people of
strong in the land, Dokkaebi appeared as if in response. Danguk).

Undying Corruption: People of Danguk 15

 Since then, Dragonborns have formed their own examination as a means of finding their unique place in
tribes and clans, gaining influence for their perceived the country. Community and belonging are important
connection to the noble Yongwang. Dragonborn virtues to Dwarvish society.
settlements can often be found near rivers and ports
Elves/Half-Elves
where their true Dragon ancestor once resided. Each
clan has been entrusted with a Dragon Egg by the As a land rife with Fey, it’s no surprise that elves
Yongwangs that will hatch into a prototypical Dragon would call Danguk their home. Considering Danguk’s
native to Danguk called an Imoogi. If the Imoogi lives relatively young existence, their eldests remember
in water for one thousand years and is gifted with a from the country’s beginning. This ancient memory
Yeouiju or a Dragon Marble, it will become a true allows Elves lucrative positions as the land’s foremost
Yongwang. historians and chroniclers. Few others can claim that
their close relatives witnessed the descent of Hwanung
The Ryu clan in particular is composed of Green
from the heavenly realm.
scaled Dragonborn who grow to be powerful sorcerers.
Their success in crafting Yeouiju or Dragon Marble Elves began appearing in Danguk around the same
and raising multiple Imoogi that grew to be princes time Hwanung connected the material realm to the
and princesses of the Dragon Palace earned them great spiritual. As Fey appeared, so did Elves to form tribes
prestige. This was owed to their ability to manipulate around forested areas. Most of these clans preferred to
the weather and purify water, which they’ve used to adopt policies of non-intervention, especially when the
profit regionally. kingdom of Danguk fractured into multiple, smaller
states. For this, through history, they were viewed with
Clanless Dragonborns do not hold much prestige
suspicion and persecuted during the Fractured Era.
in modern Danguk for fear of their relation to the
Those wishing to expand their artistic horizons left the
despised and deposed Wang Clan. Though they’re
forests and moved into towns.
looked on as a symbol of fear, clan affiliations and class
determine how Dragonborns are treated in Danguk While not as powerful as the Dwarven clans, Elves
society. and Half-Elves are valued as scholars and artists with
the latter facing more difficulties overcoming prejudice.
Dwarves Some have even passed the civil service exam and
Dwarves are the most common ancestry in Danguk. become Yangban, but most eke out a living as Jungin.
They trace their origins all the way to Ungnyeo and Those uninterested in these pursuits often become
Hwanung’s union and are often referred to as Bear traveling performers that journey to wherever people
People. The strongest clans take pride in the fact that are and entertain for lodgings from night to night.
they are the children of the descended god. Clans,
Gnomes
particularly of Eastern Danguk and the Kingdom of
Saro, have made their trade as the nation’s premier Though Gnomes aren’t native to Danguk, they
artisans and are able to make a decent living in cities. began immigrating there after the scientific revolution,
The oldest Dwarven clans who trace their lineage back particularly from the Zhu Empire. As Danguk begins
to the kingdom’s founding are mostly based in the briskly catching up with, and surpassing in some
Capital, declaring the protection of the Sandalwood regards, the rest of the world in terms of scientific
Tree their responsibility by birthright. For that reason, development, eager Zhu gnomes seek to make their
the heads of the most powerful families are typically mark in world history.
Clerics of Ungnyeo. They’re often found in cities, making their trade as
The Dwarves that shun city life are more merchants, apothecaries, and engineers. Of the clans in
independent and industrious. They operate their own Danguk, Gnomish clans are all new, yet rapidly on the
trade and settle in areas with humanoid populations rise. Their longevity encourages a devil may cry attitude
to provide a service. Breweries, inns, and taverns are which doesn’t suit civil service in Danguk, a field
commonly owned by Dwarves. These same Dwarves suspicious of free thinkers. They’ve quickly become
sometimes attempt to take the military service a staple of city life as new immigrants to the land.

16 Undying Corruption: People of Danguk

Communities that accept Gnomish clans find new Danguk, few care about such details unimportant
excitement in their lives. to their present moment. The most common theory
among Dangukese scholars is that they were a nomadic
Halflings people shipwrecked in the lands who decided to settle.
Since the wars that split Danguk and the turbulence As far as people can remember, they’ve often been made
of the Gyerim and Goryeo periods, Halflings have livings as sailors, gravitating to the wealth of food in the
adopted nomadic lives in pursuit of tranquility. seas. Tales of a Goblin insulting a Yongwang have given
Adopting patterns of olden days, few stay too long in them an unfair reputation as tricksters.
one place, usually repaying communities kind enough In truth, Goblins rarely care for conforming to
to house them with a favor and moving on. They have the society they occupy and live according to what
embraced the teachings of Moksaka, guiding others they desire at the moment. Savvy people in Danguk
to let go of their material attachments and pursue understand this and have learned to help them channel
tranquility of body, thoughts, and soul. this mindset into creative pursuits. Some Goblins have
A notable monk of Moksaka in Danguk is Jinhwi, become expert shipwrights and are responsible for
a Halfling ascetic whose body is said to have been eccentric, yet brilliant designs that revolutionize fields
mummified alive. As leader of the Ondal Order, which of naval combat or trade.
preaches of radical liberation, including from societal
expectations, some view his teachings to be at odds with Gumiho
the State. While Jinhwi represents the extremities of the Among the Primordial Beasts that ruled prehistoric
Halfling ideal of tranquility, others strive for simple lives Danguk, none more infamous than the Primordial
full of good food and friends. Most are commoners and Fox still frightens people in the present day. The other
peasants. beasts acquiesced to the formation of the new kingdom
at the command of the gods either after resisting or
Humans peaceably, but the nine-tailed fox revolted till her last
Though Humans have existed in the lands before breath. She hunted mortals and not content to eat
Hwanung’s descent, they are among a minority in their livers and hearts, she consumed their souls, only
Danguk. Still, they are considered to be Hwanung’s to be hunted down herself when coexistence became
first subjects and despite their relatively short lives, impossible. While her fellow beasts ascended to the
they’ve been part of crucial moments in Danguk’s ranks of gods, the Primordial Fox’s soul shattered and
history. They only recently came into prominence as Yi its fragments entered the cycle of reincarnation. She
Gyeong, a Human general, betrayed the Goryeo court vowed someday that a successor would come and tear
and claimed the throne. Since then, Human clans, most down the works of mortals and deities.
of which were aligned with more powerful Dwarven or This is the fear that those in Danguk live of Gumiho
Dragonborn clans, came into prominence as the new which drives their prejudice against them. When a fox
nobility. achieves sentience and grows multiple tails, they are
Though more Human clans occupy the upper crust regarded as “Children of the Nine-Tailed”, believed in
in recent times, their numbers are scattered across all worst cases to be the primordial one’s reincarnation.
classes. Given their short lives, they wish to leave behind Though they receive a fragment of her magic and
a legacy. Compared with other groups, they have an power, they are not born sharing her perspectives.
individualist streak that differentiates members among Gumiho seek out a place to belong often while hiding
clans. They’ve always been part of Danguk’s history, their true form behind a humanoid facade, either
whether at the forefront or the margins, and promise to integrating with society or engaging with it from afar.
thrive. The powers they inherit stem from a terrible hunger,
sometimes referred to as the Curse of the Primordial.
Goblins While this hunger is often misconstrued as directed
Sometimes mistaken for Dokkaebi, Goblins are a toward desiring flesh or souls, it’s more accurate to
curious minority in Danguk. While even Goblins have describe it as a formidable ambition to evolve. The
forgotten exactly how their ancestors emigrated into manner in which Gumiho desire growth is dependent

Undying Corruption: People of Danguk 17

 often on their personal experiences (for example, a captured the imaginations of Danguk and have been
gumiho might pursue academic growth by voraciously deemed by the throne to be friends and honorary
reading through tomes and grimoires, might seek ambassadors of the Moon.
physical perfection through training one’s body, or Most Lunamorphs that have traveled to Danguk
pursue it through love with multiple partners). Gumiho have tremendous wanderlust and travel the lands to
that channel their hunger productively often master learn more about the blue planet that has progressed so
any field that they enter and garner people’s undying far without them. The few that have settled are often
respect, whether or not they are aware of their true Astrologians and sages who even lecture to members of
identity. Ordinary gumiho, knowing that assimilating the Hall of Worthies of reading the stars.
into society requires that they master their hunger, live
solitary lives, or set up small communities in forests or Orcs/Half-Orcs
abandoned settlements to support each other. Orcs are among the longest lived ancestries in
Jangseung Danguk alongside Humans and Dwarves. While
some clans have accepted Hwanung’s rule, others
In ancient times, the appearance of a Jangseung have maintained their existence as nomadic tribes to
often coincided with times of strife. They’ve been the north of Danguk. Like the elves, these tribes have
respected as protectors and gained the full trust and adopted policies of neutrality with Danguk. During the
support of Mudang in their celestial mission. Many political instability of the Fractured Era, Orcish tribes
villagers revere them as direct agents of deities offer renounced their neutrality and pledged allegiance with
them their prayers in the hopes the gods can hear the scattered kingdoms of Danguk. Scholars speculate
their pleas. In recent years, with the dawning of the this was done partially to reduce casualties but also in
age of Luminism, they’re viewed in large cities where the service of their own interests. They were eventually
Luminists wield influence as eyesores and relics sent by assimilated into the kingdom of Goguryeo. That era was
the meddling gods. They’re treated there as little better a time when Orcs were highest in prominence through
than sentient constructs. the example set by the half-orc, half-god Jumong.
In contrast to either extreme, Jangseung may be Since Goguryeo’s collapse, many remained in the
driven by duty toward the gods, but they possess free north while others have assimilated into Danguk. High
will to best interpret their missives and adapt to their ranking officials of Danguk distrust the prominent
surrounding circumstances. They often act as workers Orcish clans for their proximity to the Zhu Empire’s
whose employers sent them a great distance and keep border. These clans that can trace their lineage back
aloof with those they engage with in the material to the golden era of Goguryeo remain powerful in
plane, knowing their time is limited. Jangseung who Danguk, boasting members who are prominent poets
stay in the mortal world for extended periods of time and military leaders.
often develop attachments. When it comes to other
Jangseung, they communicate with each other as they
would colleagues or workers in the same field. Some
that develop homesickness for their respective planes
create communities rife with magic that attempts to
replicate the aesthetic qualities of their old homes.

Lunamorphs
Like Gnomes, Lunamorphs only emigrated to
Danguk from the Moon recently. While their recent
appearance makes most people wary of their motives,
people are fascinated in their origins from beyond
the world. They’re capable tinkerers, well-versed in
technology used to travel planes, and celestial bodies
to limited degrees. Though few in number, they’ve

18 Undying Corruption: People of Danguk

Sangun Tieflings
The tiger people of Hodamguk have a complicated Out of all the people of Danguk, Tieflings have the
relationship with Danguk. They’ve been tasked by their most difficult time of assimilating. Natives to Danguk
creator goddess, Honyeo, to protect the children of trace their lineage back to souls that have escaped
Ungnyeo. The interpretation of this command varies Jeoseung, finding new companions as Fiends while
for every Sangun and their individual answer typically hiding, or from unions between Akryung and mortals.
reflects their outlook on life. The Sangun have existed Others end up in Danguk either by immigrating or as
as long as Danguk has and they’ve passed on a virtue former pirates who were given a small plot of land and
of adhering to the will of the strongest, though this work after being captured. In either event, Tieflings
doesn’t necessarily mean that the strong must subjugate have the unfair reputation of being associated with a
the weak. criminal element that they must push against to make a
Assimilating into Danguk society has always living.
been difficult. The Sangun are known to have a fiery Communities that get to know individual Tieflings,
temperament and are likely to hold grudges. Despite however, come to accept them as their own. The best
their mother goddess’s command, the country of of people can put aside their personal prejudices in
Hodamguk has not forgiven Danguk for its instances favor of mutual interest and friendship and they would
of betrayal, particularly during the Gyerim era. They protect Tieflings as among their own. Still, tieflings have
use their brute strength to slay Akryung in accordance the most difficult life as they disproportionately are
with their creator’s desires. Though the Sanguns’ among the lower classes. A few have broken barriers and
values over strength and power conflict with those of come into prominence as legendary performers.
Danguk’s ruling literati, it’s commonly accepted that
their existences are nevertheless tied to the land. Despite
everything, the Sangun still command the respect of the
ordinary residents of Danguk.

Undying Corruption: People of Danguk 19

20 Undying Corruption: Provinces
PROVINCES that only Sangun that ventured into the depths of the
tomb to offer their prayers to Honyeo’s heart possesses
the right to lead all of her children. Only a handful
of warriors have accomplished this task, with many
1. Yongnak Province: A segment of the more frauds pretending the feat caught. Until such a
kingdom that was once Goguryeo. Yongnak, out of all leader steps up, the Sangun govern through a series of
provinces in Danguk, suffers from the most extreme community leaders that meet in the Tomb.
climates depending on the time of the year. It’s sealed
off to its east and west by mountains, bottlenecking
3. Yuhwa Province: Originally the site of the
kingdom of Gyerim, the most prominent Dwarven
potential invaders from the north to the gates built
clans occupy this region of Danguk. The country’s
by Long Xin and Danguk. Farmers also live in these
first metallurgical techniques were devised in this land,
mountains and support themselves by growing ginseng.
giving the dwarven clans wealth and prominence. Much
Most of the province’s population lives in the of the veins of silver and iron ore have been drained,
industrial, military city of Gungnae which was leaving the clan owners little beyond their ancestral
originally constructed in Goryeo to house Danguk’s prestige. Leaders in towns like Eunsan still cling to the
army and fend off invasions from Long Xin. Most hope that they will be able to find new sources of ore
airships that travel around or into Danguk dock in while others have moved onto agriculture as a means
Gungnae to refuel through its city airport. During the for profit. Enterprising Halfling merchants allied
Age of Illumination, its factories have been converted to with performers have begun attracting influence away
create commercial goods instead of military equipment. from the conservative Dwarven clans with promises of
While the military was transferred to Asadal, modernization.
Dangukese army bases remain prominent in the city to
oversee matters related to the Orcish and Dragonborn 4. Saro Province: Originally the site of the
tribes that claim sovereignty. kingdom of Saro. Since Saro adopted Moksaka’s religion
as their state religion, many temples to Moksaka have
Many Sangun have immigrated to Gungnae, finding been built here to which believers across the country
the extreme temperatures, especially the cold, more make pilgrimages to. Many Mudang have established
agreeable to them. mountain communities to venerate the deities that live
2. Hodamguk: Once the body of Honyeo, the atop them. Political dissidents and defeated soldiers also
Primordial Tiger, Hodamguk is the birthplace of the retreated higher up the mountains, abandoning their
first Sangun people. Like the Yongnak Province, its lives and becoming monks or priests in return for safety.
climates range between the extremes from humid Most elven tribes reside in the vast forests of the Saro
forests to icy mountain peaks. Few adventurers in Province. They keep isolated in glades protected by
Danguk tread into Hodamguk as they recognize it as a illusory magic, practicing their primal arts away from
land where only the physically strongest survive. The modernizing influences. They also ally with Noru tribes
people of Hodamguk coexist alongside nature. Though that serve as the gods’ direct messengers in exchange for
they understand the ways of building civilizations, trading information concerning the heavens and the
they eschewed following the practices of the people of earth.
Danguk to ensure they do not build faster than nature
Though no major cities exist in this region, the
can grow. Fearsome beasts walk the streets of Sangun
mountains are rumored to hold rifts that lead into the
villages as if nothing was awry.
elemental planes. Mountain gods protected these rifts
The closest space to a city in Hodamguk is the since before the Founding Era to prevent powerful
Tomb of Honyeo, the grandest monument built by elementals from appearing in and terraforming
the Sanguns for their mother goddess. Beyond the Danguk. This odd characteristic maintains that the
settlements built in honeycomb-like grooves covering Saro Province still possesses mystical secrets that even
the monument, the Sangun have built a series of the scholars of Asadal still research.
catacombs through which they task their warriors
with trials to determine their ranks in society. It’s said

Undying Corruption: Provinces 21

 5. Jeumto Province: Originally the site of the The king must first forge a pact with the gods of
kingdom of Jeumto, the region houses Nampung, Gucheon and be ordained as their representative on
Danguk’s major port city which also houses its navy. earth. Through the authority granted as the gods’
Travelers and merchants that visit by sea enter through envoy, the king performs a yearly ritual to bless the
Nampung, which makes it a popular destination for system of reincarnation of the Sandalwood Tree and the
bards and artists to learn more about cultures from the souls that cycle through its roots and branches into and
outside world. Even villagers surrounding Nampung from different planes of existence.
who live as rice farmers tend to be more knowledgeable 8. Tamla: The island of Tamla was formed when
about the world. the Ungnyeo, drawn during her bout wrestling against
Because the rest of Danguk is protected by Hwanung, spilled her blood. Years later, a priestess
mountains, most pirate activity non-reliant on airships of the Primordial Beasts left to inspect the island as
or teleportation circles occur through Nampung’s a pilgrimage and found a box waiting for her on the
black markets and neighboring islands. Gumiho found shores. When she opened it, enough livestock to raise
it easiest to disguise oneself in the Jeumto Province in a farm and mountains of grain and bamboo seeds
and carved out new lives and identities for themselves. appeared. Finally, she received a revelation of the
Beyond its naval base and value for trade and travel, Primordial Beasts leaving the lands of their own volition
uptight Luminists see this region as a gap through and the calamities of undead grudges raining down on
which iniquity and corruption spread. Danguk.
6. Mudo: Mu Island serves as a trading post a She invited her acolytes to help build the land and
hundred miles away from Danguk shores. It’s jointly protect them from the Emperor of Darkness’s advent,
operated with envoys from the Kyougen Federation gathering the primal powers of the Primordial Beasts
to facilitate trade and good will between lands. into a spatial rift that makes the island unreachable
Though tensions linger due to Youseki and the Kojima physically. Tamla holds firm to the veneration of the
Chains’ invasion of Danguk at the start of the Age of Primordial Beasts. Its Mudang discovered the secrets of
Illumination, diplomats worked diligently to reach an accessing the demiplane of Beast Danguk, keeping the
understanding. gate open which transformed the island into an eternal,
tropical summer.
7. Asadal: The City of the Gods that sits atop the
divinely gifted Sandalwood Tree, Asadal is commonly Over the course of the Fractured Era, Tamla resisted
known as the seat of power in Danguk. All of Danguk’s the kingdoms of the mainland to annex it. Goryeo,
magical research and technology concentrated at its however, forced its military into Tamla to annex it
center in Asadal since the Age of Illumination began. through an arrangement with the southern Yongwang.
The city houses the country’s major universities and Despite annexation, powerful resistance movements
governmental ministries that oversee all aspects of life grew to oppose ambassadors from Goryeo. In the
for inhabitants. The Lunarian Conclave’s embassy, Age of Illumination, Tamla maintains a degree of
which regulates travel between the planet and the independence from Asadal as they have shown no
moons through systems of teleportation circles, interest in conforming to the principles of Luminism.
is also located in the municipal district of Asadal. Asadal allows Tamla self-governance despite being
Other countries such as Long Xin and the Kyougen legally part of Danguk, remembering their fierce
Federation built their embassies in Asadal. resistance. Tamla is the only land in Danguk still
governed by Mudang and priests of the Primordial
Though only the wealthiest and most powerful Beasts, though they are neutral from the mainland
of Danguk’s citizens live in the city of Asadal, some Black Bear Clan organization. Its priests hold that in
druidic orders and commoners live inside of its bark time, the Beasts will return to the world and they await
or between its roots in towns where it is sanctioned. their advent.
Higher taxes are levied from these people than
elsewhere in the country.

22 Undying Corruption: Provinces

Undying Corruption: Player’s Guide 23
Races

DOKKAEBI
If mortals never existed, neither could the first
Dokkaebi be born into the world. Native to the land
of Danguk, Dokkaebi are fey, the lowest-ranked of the
natural gods, who are given shape through the innate
energies flowing through nature and given will and
personality by the unvarnished desires of people around
them. Though they take on goblinesque forms, their
true body is either an abandoned, man-made object or
something found in nature. They enjoy nothing more
than a good drink, a wrestling match, and throwing
festivals in the night, which villagers attribute any Alignment: Dokkaebi are typically Chaotic
strange, inexplicable phenomena to. Though fickle and creatures who follow their passions and whims even
rambunctious, they carry a strong sense of right and when they may be considered unwise.
wrong and pay back both favors and insults tenfold.
Size: The size of Dokkaebi can vary from 4 ft to 8 ft
tall. Your size is Small or Medium.
Dokkaebi Traits
Speed: Your base walking speed is 30 ft.
Ability Score Increase: Increase one ability score
by 2 and another by 1. One should be Strength. Darkvision. You can see in dim light within 60 feet
of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it
Type: You are a Fey.
were dim light. You can’t discern color in darkness, only
Age: Dokkaebi are born in adulthood and live up to shades of gray.
1000 years.

24 Undying Corruption: Races

 Gift of the Elements. You embody the qualities of Object Form. As an action, you can change your
the spirits of the elements that gave birth to you. When appearance into a Tiny, non-magical object that you
you create your character, choose a listed element and choose at the start of character creation. In this form,
gain its benefits: your Statistics become those of the object except for
• Air: You gain Resistance to Lightning your Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma scores. You
damage. have Tremorsense for up to 10 ft. You assume the Hit
Points of the object and if you drop to 0 Hit Points, any
• Earth: You gain Resistance to Poison excess damage is carried over to your normal form. You
damage. may use a Bonus Action to transform back.
• Fire: You gain Resistance to Fire damage. If you die, you return to this form until your soul
• Metal: You gain Resistance to Piercing is bound to your vessel again using an effect or spell to
damage. restore you to life. If the object is destroyed, then you
• Water: You gain Resistance to Acid damage. can only return through True Resurrection.
• Wood: You gain Resistance to Radiant Wrestling Champion. You gain proficiency in
damage. Athletics and you can add your proficiency bonus again
when attempting to grapple another creature. You can
When you damage a creature with an attack or spell
grapple a creature up to Huge, ignoring normal size
while you’re grappling them, you can cause the attack
restrictions. If your size has been increased by an effect,
or spell to deal extra damage of the damage type you
you can grapple up to Gargantuan creatures.
are resistant to against the creature. The extra damage
equals your level. Once you use this trait, you can’t use Languages: You can speak, read, and write
it until you finish a short or long rest. Common and Sylvan.

Undying Corruption: Races 25

 lives among other settlements of people,
assimilating where few are any the wiser.
Whatever life they choose to lead, few rarely
ever find themselves content with stagnation,
seeking in their own ways the next stage of
their evolution.

Gumiho Traits
Ability Score Increase: Your Charisma
increases by 2.
Age: Gumiho begin at maturity when a fox spirit
GUMIHO lived over 900 years. They may pass on should they
When a fox lives for over a hundred years, it grows a accept death.
new tail that symbolizes its accumulated wisdom. If one
Creature Type: You are a Beast.
grows its ninth tail, it transcends the state of ordinary
beasthood and achieves sentience, able to perceive the Alignment: Gumiho are usually Neutral, driven
world with greater understanding. They go by different strongly by the object of their hunger. They’re able to
names based on regions: Kitsune, Huli Jing, and the express a degree of self-discipline and restraint taking
Gumiho. into consideration the bigger picture.
The Gumiho are nine-tailed foxes native to Danguk, Size: You are Medium.
each having accepted their magical gifts from the Speed: Your walking speed is 30 ft.
Primordial Fox, the first Gumiho. They live balancing Darkvision: You’re accustomed to skulking in
their higher consciousness with their bestial instincts: darkness beyond the gaze of common people. You can
combined, both compel Gumiho with an ancient see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright
urge to pursue their next stage of evolution, whether light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can’t
by collecting knowledge or mastering their enhanced discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
physical prowess. In this way, they harness their hunger
into the power to achieve their desires. Fox’s Jaws: You have sharp fangs that can rip apart
creatures’ flesh. Your jaws are natural weapons, which
Gumiho rarely gather into large tribes or stay in you can use to make unarmed strikes with the finesse
one place. As shapeshifters, they often live solitary property. If you hit with them, you deal piercing

26 Undying Corruption: Races

damage equal to 1d4 + your Strength or Dexterity After answering or at the end of your turn, the soul is
modifier, instead of the bludgeoning damage normal released.
for an unarmed strike. If your gemstone is lost or destroyed, you must
Trickster Fox: As an action, you can change your spend a long rest to create another. The gemstone does
form into an alternate form. You can either take the not function for anybody except you and cannot be
form of a tiny Fox or take the form of a Medium-sized sold.
Humanoid with fox traits such as nine tails. Your Death Defiance: When you are reduced to 0 Hit
Humanoid form is set and you cannot use this trait Points, you can spend any remaining Hit Dice and
to duplicate another person’s form, though you can regain a number of Hit Points equal to the roll plus
choose to hide any of your fox traits. Your clothing and your Constitution modifier. Your gemstone shatters
equipment aren’t changed by this trait and you can and must be repaired to use this feature again.
remain in the form until you die. While in fox form,
you lose access to your class features and spellcasting.
Liver Eater
You have proficiency in the Deception skill.
Ability Score Increase: You can increase your
Languages: You can speak, read, and write Strength or Dexterity by 1.
Common and one other language of your choice.
Carnivorous Curse: Your bite enables you to
Knowledge Eater drain another creature’s energy, seizing it for yourself
or debilitating them into submission. When you hit a
Ability Score Increase: You can increase your creature that isn’t either Undead or a Construct with
Intelligence or Wisdom by 1. your jaws attack, you choose one of the following
Fox Marble: You possess a tiny, spherical gemstone effects:
containing your spirit inside. This gemstone can You regain hit points equal to the piercing damage
function as your spellcasting focus. dealt by the bite.
When a creature with at least 10 in Intelligence The target has Disadvantage on its next attack roll
dies within 10 ft. of you, you can spend a Reaction to against you.
temporarily snatch their soul inside your Fox Marble.
You can ask the soul a question and receive a telepathic Feral Footwork: Your movement speed increases
answer. The answer must only be a sentence long and by an additional 5 ft. and you have Proficiency in
might be cryptic, but the soul must answer truthfully. Intimidation.

Undying Corruption: Races 27

 rare, often dire circumstances, a deity will choose to
imbue one of the Jangseung with life. This process
requires the creation of a new celestial soul, which
is then merged with the wood or stone of the original
guardian post. A mudang is then called to provide
and bless additional materials that are used to form a
new, more mobile body.
These new guardians are intricately built and often
JANGSEUNG decorated with knot-work or paper charms. Some
To a beleaguered traveler, the sight of carved stone Jangseung choose to wear clothing but others forgo
and wood is a blessing. The clusters of guardian poles or it, instead carving prayers, artwork of their deeds,
Jangseung, serve as both guides and protectors. Along or the faces of their original cluster onto their bare
roads, they stand as markers of distance between long bodies. While their original faces often had exaggerated
stretches of land, their roots radiating divine energy features, many choose to soften them into something
into earth to stem corruption and provide respite to more humanoid-like in order to better fit in with
those nearby. Placed in the furthest four corners of a mortals or disguise themselves as warforged. The one
settlement, they serve as gatekeepers and drive away evil feature they cannot hide is their elongated, sharp canine
spirits, disease, and ill fortune. In return, villagers host teeth.
yearly rituals involving offerings of wine and food, keep
them clean, and provide ample prayers. Jangseung Traits
Although every Jangseung has the ability to be Ability Score Increase: Increase one ability score
brought to life, the majority of these guardian poles by 2 and another by 1.
will never move from their chosen posts. They silently Age: The celestial spirit chosen to inhabit the
watch over the village that created them, serving as the Jangseung is created at the moment of the Jangseung’s
eyes and ears of the deity carved into their poles. In awakening and while this spirit can be killed, it does not

28 Undying Corruption: Races

age. Spirits typically stay with their guardian pole until Languages: You can speak, read, and write
their deity recalls them, with missions ranging from Common and Celestial. If you are evil aligned, speak
days long to decades long. A rare few choose to stay with your DM about replacing Celestial with Infernal
permanently on the material plane, petitioning their or Abyssal.
deity to indefinitely extend their missions.
Creature Type: You are a Humanoid. Celestial Spirit
Alignment: A Jangseung’s alignment almost always At 1st level, choose one of the spirit options below.
mirrors that of its deity. As most villages choose good These represent the different forms a spirit might
or neutral aligned deities as their patrons, the majority manifest as in order to best complete its heavenly
of Jangseung are seen as honorable, oath-bound mission. Those who wish to protect what remains of
protectors. However, a Janseung whose sacred grounds their villages or roadways or prevent a disaster typically
have been desecrated or destroyed, may find themselves become Spirits of Protection. Whereas those whose
corrupted by thoughts of revenge. missions are more convert or are seeking to avenge a
destroyed home, often become Spirits of Justice.
Size: Choose between Medium or Small.
Speed: Your base walking speed is 30 ft. Spirit of Protection
Rite of Consecration: To gain the benefits of a long Form of Wall: You can firmly plant yourself into the
rest, Jangseung must perform a Rite of Consecration. ground as an Action. While in this state, your speed
You require small offerings such as herbs, flowers or is reduced to 0 ft., your Armor Class increases by 2,
food to perform this ritual and must offer them to your you suffer Disadvantage on Dexterity saving throws,
patron deity, before kneeling in prayer for the duration and creatures have Disadvantage on checks to shove
of six hours. During this rite, you are motionless and or move or force their way through you regardless of
appear inactive but not unconscious, allowing you to size differences. You can use a Bonus Action to remove
see and hear normally. yourself from the earth.
Hallowed Guardian: As an action, you can Armored Vessel: You gain proficiency with your
choose up to a number of creatures equal to your choice of mason’s tools or carpenter’s tools. Wearing
proficiency bonus that you can see. These creatures armor grants you no benefit, but you can apply a
receive 1d4 temporary hit points and advantage on shield’s bonus as normal and your heavily reinforced
saving throws against being Charmed or Frightened for body gives you a base AC of 17 (your Dexterity
one minute. Once you use this trait, you can’t use it modifier doesn’t affect this number).
again until you finish a long rest.
Resilient Servant: Your ethereal nature gives you Spirit of Justice
the following benefits: Assimilate Weapon: As a bonus action, you can
• You do not breathe. assimilate the shape of any weapon you’re holding into
• You do not require food or drink. your arms. You can change out the weapon’s damage
type to bludgeoning. In addition, your attacks with that
• You do not require sleep and magic cannot be
weapon deal an additional 1d4 bludgeoning damage.
used to put you to sleep.
Agile Vessel: You gain proficiency with your choice
• You are immune to disease and have resistance
of mason’s tools or carpenter’s tools. Your sculpted
to non-magical poisons.
body gives you a base AC of 13 + your Dexterity
• You have advantage on saving throws against modifier. You gain no benefit from wearing armor,
being Charmed or Frightened by Fiends, but if you are using a shield, you can apply the shield’s
Undead, or Fey. bonus as normal.
• You have resistance to radiant damage.

Undying Corruption: Races 29

 Lunamorphs that have lived closer to the respective
Moon they’re from possess more rabbit-like features.
Those born from partners with different races mostly
take on qualities from their non-Lunamorph parent.
LUNAMORPH They’re well regarded in Danguk for their ingenuity
Travelers of the stars and denizens of the moons, and masterful techniques in pounding rice cakes.
the dream of Lunamorphs is to travel all corners Lunamorph Traits
of the galaxies and map out the entire universe.
Ability Score Increase: Your Dexterity increases
They’ve mastered space faring before others who live
by 2.
on the planet that they orbit have even discovered
their existence. Inquisitive, individualistic, though Age: Lunamorphs reach maturity by age 10 and
reclusive, many Lunamorphs are artists, scientists, and don’t usually live longer than 50 years.
travelers who prefer to be discreet in their visitations Alignment: Most Lunamorphs are degrees of
in other communities. Regardless, they value trust and Neutral, valuing self-preservation and the safety of
companionship as their highest virtues. kin at first. They can deviate from this if they find
Influenced by their limited lifespans, Lunamorph motivation outside of their communities.
culture encourages relationships with multiple partners. Size: Lunamorphs are usually between 3 and 4 feet
Lunamorphs typically find partners within and outside tall and weigh between 40 and 50 pounds. Creatures
of their genders and those that become parents, though who have at least one Lunamorph parent resemble their
they have a protective streak, encourage self-sufficiency. other parent while gaining Lunamorph features. You
They raise one another as a tribe and keep close-knit can start either Small or Medium.
relationships until ready to step outside. One key skill
Speed: Your base walking speed is 30 feet.
elders pass on to young rabbits is the art of pounding
rice cakes which has resulted in many of the craters on Keen Hearing: Your long ears are sensitive to the
the moon. slightest sounds and you have Advantage on Wisdom
(Perception), Wisdom (Survival), and Intelligence
(Investigation) checks that involve hearing.

30 Undying Corruption: Races

 Reflexive Dodge: When you take damage, as a Starry Insight: You know the Guidance cantrip.
Reaction, your instincts override your consciousness When you reach 3rd level, you can cast the Identify
and propels your body out of danger. You reduce the spell once with this trait and regain the ability to do
damage by 5 + your level and move 5 ft away from so when you finish a long rest. At 5th level, you can
the source of damage without taking an Attack of cast the Locate Object spell once with this trait and
Opportunity. Once you use this trait, you can’t use it regain the ability to do so when you finish a long rest.
again until you finish a short or long rest. Intelligence is your Spellcasting Ability for these spells.
Languages: You can speak, read, and write
Common and Lunamorph. Voyager
Ability Score Increase: Your Wisdom score
Starwatcher increases by 1.
Ability Score Increase: Your Intelligence score Navigator of the Stars: You’ve been trained to
increases by 1. chart the heavens and the earth. You gain proficiency
Astromancer Initiate: You gain proficiency with with artisan tools (Navigator’s Tools).
artisan tools (Cartographer’s Supplies). You can spend In addition, you can cast the Augury spell with
a long rest to perform a ritual to summon a Tiny this trait. Once you cast this spell with this trait, you
Starchild (AC 5, 1 Hit Point). can’t cast that spell again until you finish a Long Rest.
As an Action, you can command it to project bright Wisdom is your Spellcasting Ability for this spell.
light in a 20 ft radius and dim light for an additional 20 Escape Artist: You’ve learned how to survive
ft, or go dark. The Starchild has a Fly (Hover) speed of encounters with predators by escaping their clutches.
20 ft and can move within 10 ft of you. As an action, If you fail your ability check to escape from being
you can command the Starchild to burst into bright Grappled or Restrained, you escape, but you can only
light. Creatures within 5 ft of it must succeed on a move up to half your movement speed on this turn.
Dexterity saving throw (DC 8 + your proficiency bonus
+ your Intelligence modifier), or be blinded until the
end of your turn.

Undying Corruption: Races 31

 NORU themselves, Noru society often follows a strict hierarchy
where everyone must know who to listen to and who to
The Noru are a deer-like people native to Danguk
guide. Some have opted to eschew these traditionalist
who claim to have descended alongside Hwanung
practices and venture on their own into conventional
from the Heavens to found the country. From the
society.
perspective of other cultures, the Noru, like the Elves,
have descended from the Fey and helped protect and
shape the country’s landscape. Most Noru clans tend to Noru Traits
live in the wilds, maintaining neutrality with the affairs Ability Score Increase: Increase one score by 2 and
of man as they perceive their duties to impart rather another by 1 or increase three different scores by 1, but
than intervene. Individual Noru however have been one choice must be Wisdom
more favorable to certain groups or people with their Age: Noru live for only up to 60 years, but they do
prophecies. Because of this, while Danguk superstition not believe anyone who dies is ever truly gone. They’re
holds that to harm a Noru incurs the gods’ wrath, there considered young until they reach the age of 10.
are those that distrust them for a history of rumored,
clandestine activities. Creature Type: Fey

Their connection to nature and the gods have Alignment: Noru have been raised to be Lawful,
resulted in many walking the paths of either Druids or but are often Neutral.
Clerics. Many serve as natural Mudang, intervening in Speed: Your base walking Speed is 30 ft.
conflicts between the material and the spiritual. Being Divine Knowledge: You have proficiency in either
able to hear the voices of those beyond trains many the Nature or Religion skill.
Noru youths to be sensitive and sociable. Still, because
Messenger of the Spirits: You gain the ability
of their reclusive ways, they are taught by elders to
to imbue a corpse with speech and ask it as many
be cheerful, but show their hearts only partially lest
questions up to your proficiency bonus. The corpse
they risk being swept into others’ designs. To protect

32 Undying Corruption: Races

only knows
what it knew
in life and is under
no compulsion to
answer your question
honestly. You regain
all expended uses
when you finish a long
rest.
Revelation: When
a creature within 30 ft.
fails on an Intelligence, Wisdom, or
Charisma saving throw, you can use
your reaction to roll instead and use
that as the final result, potentially turning
the failure into a success. You can use this ability
once per day.
Seismic Sensitivity: You are sensitive to vibrations
in the ground and can automatically pinpoint the
location of anything moving while on ground. You gain
Tremorsense 30 ft.
Languages: You can speak, read, and write
Common and Celestial.

Undying Corruption: Races 33

 SANGUN people are shards of the Primordial Tiger’s collective
unconsciousness and regard the experiences of one
The Sangun, or the Lords of the Mountain, are
person as a continuation of a grander project.
a folk who structure their lives around their strong
sense of duty. They are humanoids shaped as tigers
whose ancestry can be traced back to the Primordial Sangun Traits
Tiger, a figure in Danguk’s founding venerated as a Ability Score Increase: Your Strength score
divine beast in legends. This connection is proven increases by 2.
through the divine energy that transforms some Sangun Age: Sangun mature at the same rate as humans, but
through their determination as a living avatar of their they’re considered young until they reach the age of 30.
convictions. Undisputed masters of the frigid country Sangun typically live for about 250 years.
of Hodamguk, the Land of Tiger Tales, they regard
themselves as guardians of the weak, regarding most Alignment: Most Sangun are Lawful, but may
outside of their clans to be so until proven otherwise. diverge regarding their interpretations of following their
principles. They tend toward Neutral.
Though territorial, they also have an unmatched
cunning as they strike only when victories are Size: The Sangun stand between 6 and 7 feet tall
certain. Deeply spiritual, Sangun faith believes that and weigh between 250 to 320 pounds. Your size is
Medium.

34 Undying Corruption: Races

 Speed: Your base walking Speed is 30 feet and your Lord of Beasts
claws give you a Climb speed of 10 ft.
Ability Score Increase: Your Wisdom score
Darkvision: Your keen, feline senses enable you increases by 1.
to see in dark and dim conditions. You can see in dim
Will of the Primordial: Starting at 3rd level, you
light within 60 ft of you as if it were bright light, and in
can use an action to surrender yourself to your primal
darkness as if it were dim light. You can’t discern color
instincts as your physical features match that of your
in darkness, only shades of gray.
divine beast ancestor. You can use this up to a number
Pounce: If you move at least 15 ft. straight toward of times equal to your Proficiency bonus per long rest.
a creature and hit them with a melee attack, that target
• Your transformation lasts for 1 minute or
must make a Strength saving throw (DC 8 + your
until you end it (no action required). When
proficiency bonus + your Strength modifier) or be
you activate this transformation, other
knocked prone.
creatures within 10 ft of you must make
Thick Fur: You have resistance to cold damage. a Dexterity saving throw (DC 8 + your
Tiger’s Claws: Your claws are natural weapons proficiency bonus + your Wisdom modifier)
which you can use to make unarmed strikes. They deal or take fire damage half your level (rounded
slashing damage equal to 1d6 + your Strength modifier, up) and ignite. Until a creature takes an
instead of bludgeoning damage for an unarmed strike. action to douse the fire, the target takes the
same damage at the start of their turns.
Languages: You can speak, read, and write
Common and Primordial. In addition, you can deal fire damage equal to your
level with the first melee or spell attack that hits an
Lord Guardian enemy for the first time on each of your turns.
Ability Score Increase: Your Constitution score Lord of War
increases by 1. Ability Score Increase: Your Charisma score
Will of the Protector: Starting at 3rd level, you can increases by 1.
use an action to materialize your conviction to guard Will of the Conqueror: Starting at 3rd level, you
those you hold dear as golden fur and shining stripes. can use an action to roar out and gather the spirits of
You can use this up to a number of times equal to your fallen warriors into your body to exact your collective
Proficiency bonus per long rest. dreams for victory. You can use this up to a number of
• Your transformation lasts for 1 minute or times equal to your Proficiency bonus per long rest.
until you end it (no action required). You • Your transformation lasts for 1 minute or
gain Advantage on all saving throws against until you end it (no action required). As
magical effects. As a reaction, when an ally a bonus action, you may target a creature.
within 10 ft. of you takes damage, you can They must roll a Wisdom saving throw (DC
give resistance to the damage while taking the 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Wisdom
same amount of damage. modifier) or be Cursed until the end of their
In addition, you can deal radiant damage equal to next turn. While Cursed, the creature cannot
your level with the first melee or spell attack that hits an take reactions and has Disadvantage on ability
enemy for the first time on each of your turns. checks and saving throws.
In addition, you can deal necrotic damage equal to
your level with the first melee or spell attack that hits an
enemy for the first time on each of your turns.

Undying Corruption: Races 35

SUBCLASSES

BARBARIAN: PATH OF THE UNBOUND When you reach certain levels in this class, the size
In the history of mortals, the strong have shackled of your Blade of Rebellion die increases: d8 at 6th level,
the weak and forced them to do their bidding. When d10 at 10th level, and d12 at 14th level.
they take everything from you, all you know is anger. Revolutionary Spirit
The collective agonies of the oppressed gather into
a single vessel that carries their pain and rage: the At 3rd level, when you first enter your rage, your
Unbound Barbarian. The arrogance of the mighty boils current and maximum Hit Points increase by your
your blood and you temper the pain of their whip into Barbarian level + your Constitution modifier. You lose
an unstoppable blade of rebellion. Your rage will not all Hit Points you’ve gained from this feature when
stop until all people are free. your Rage ends.

Blade of Rebellion Unstoppable

At 3rd level, you push beyond all limits of your At 6th level, no chain or bondage can hold you
mortal body to muster greater strength. While raging, for long. While raging, you are unaffected by difficult
once on each of your turns, when you hit a creature terrain and are immune to the Paralyzed and Stunned
with a melee weapon attack, you can roll a number of conditions. You may spend 5 feet of movement to
d6’s up to your Proficiency bonus and deal additional escape being grappled or Restrained.
force damage. You take 2 damage for each dice rolled in
this way.

36 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

Galvanized Emancipation and shakes the convictions of hostile creatures that can
hear you within 30 ft. Targeted allies gain 10 ft. to their
At 10th level, the example you set gives others
movement speed and temporary Hit Points equal to
courage to press forward beyond their limits. While
your Barbarian level. The movement speed of hostile
you’re raging, each allied creature within 30 ft. gains
creatures within range is halved unless the targeted
Advantage on checks or saving throws against charms
creature is immune to the Frightened condition. These
and effects that would forcefully move them or restrict
effects last until the end of your rage and you can only
their movement.
use this action once per rage.
When the affected creature succeeds on such checks
or saving throws, the hostile creature takes psychic
damage equal to damage dealt by your Blade of
Rebellion die plus your Constitution modifier.

Liberator’s Battlecry
Beginning at 14th level, whenever you use Reckless
Attack, you can roll a number of damage dice equal
to half of your Proficiency Bonus (rounded down) for
Blade of Rebellion without taking additional damage.
In addition, you can bellow out a cry that inspires
you and your companions into sharing your fight for a
freer world. As a bonus action while you rage, your yell
bolsters the resolve of up to ten creatures of your choice

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 37

 BARD: COLLEGE OF INK use it to inscribe brushstrokes against the air,
not just flat, physical surfaces.
If the spoken word contains power, then the written
word is its crystallization. Bards of the College of Ink • As a bonus action, the Inkbrush can grow or
use ink to elevate the science of inscribing arcane power shrink by one size category. You can use it as a
into parchment to an art. The most advanced of these melee weapon with the following stats:
bards breathe life into their brushstrokes to rise from
their pages. These bards often come to be venerated
Virtuoso’s Inkbrush
Melee weapon (Simple, Brush)
as legendary painters or as creators whose art literally
Category: Magic Item
shapes countries and creates monsters. Their craft
Damage: 1d4
exemplifies the life that exists in tomes and paintings.
Damage Type: Bludgeoning, Piercing, or Slashing of
Virtuoso’s Inkbrush your choice
When you join the College of Ink at 3rd level, you Properties: Finesse, Light, Range
gain proficiency with Calligrapher’s Supplies, the Range: 20/60
Forgery Kit, and Painter’s Supplies. Weight: 1 lb
• You can cast Silent Image at will using this
In addition, as a bonus action, you can magically item as a spellcasting focus.
create a Virtuoso’s Inkbrush. This magic item can only
be used by you and has the following properties: • Only one Virtuoso’s Inkbrush created by you
can exist at a time. If you create another while
• The Inkbrush is a Tiny magic item. It one already exists, the previous one you’ve
produces ink in your choice of color. You can created disappears.
38 Undying Corruption: Subclasses
 amount equal to your Charisma modifier (minimum
Living Inkpiece one) plus twice your bardic inspiration die. If you are
Medium or Smaller Ooze incapacitated, the Inkpiece can take any action of its
Armor Class 10 choosing.
Hit Points 10 + four times your Bard level The Inkpiece remains for 1 hour or until it is
Speed 25 ft reduced to 0 Hit Points, you use this feature to create
another Inkpiece, or until you die; after which, it
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 8 (-1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) evaporates.
Once you use this feature, you can’t use it again until
Damage Immunities: Acid
you finish a Long Rest, or until you expend two Bardic
Condition Immunities: Charmed, Frightened,
Grappled, Prone, Restrained Inspiration dice.
Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 10
Languages: Understands the languages you speak Ink Spell
Challenge: -
By 6th level, you can cast spells through your Living
Proficiency Bonus: equals your bonus
Inkpiece as though you were in the inkpiece’s space.
Amorphous: The Inkpiece can move through a You can ignore the verbal components of the spell and
space as narrow as 1 inch wide without squeezing. have the Inkpiece perform the somatic components as
Hyperrealism: The Inkpiece depicts its subject with an extension of yourself.
great accuracy. Whenever a creature rolls
In addition, when you create your Living Inkpiece,
Intelligence (Investigation) to try and discern its true
nature, it must beat your spell save DC. On a
you can create it with half its original Hit Points
success, it can see its true nature as an Ooze. (rounded up) while a protective layer of ink surrounds
you, giving you temporary hit points equal to its
Actions current Hit Points. If an adjacent creature makes a
Ink Slam: Melee Weapon Attack: your spell attack melee attack against you while you still have temporary
modifier to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 1d8 + hit points in this way, they take acid damage equal to
Proficiency Bonus acid damage. On a hit, the your Charisma modifier.
creature must roll an Acrobatics or Athletics check
against your spell save DC. On a failure, they are Page Master
Grappled and may spend an action on its next turn
to try and escape.
Starting at 14th level, once per long rest after
you finish a long rest, you can inscribe a rune on a
parchment to store in it a spell you know of up to 5th
Animate Inkpiece level. You do not expend the spell slot to inscribe it.
With a final brushstroke, you imbue your ink piece The rune is usable only by you and you must use the
with sentience at 3rd level. As an action, you summon a specified casting time of the spell in order to cast it.
Living Inkpiece in an unoccupied space that you can see Only a single spell rune you create can exist at a time.
within 30 ft of you. The rune deteriorates and is unusable within 24 hours.

You determine the Inkpiece’s appearance. It is In addition, you may cast spells that require being
friendly to you and your companions and obeys your inscribed such as Glyph of Warding, Magic Circle, or
commands. The creature’s game statistics are listed Symbol with half the cost in material components.
below.
In combat, the Inkpiece shares your initiative count,
but it takes its turn immediately after yours. Unless you
use a bonus action to command it to do otherwise, the
creature defends itself against hostile creatures. As part
of your bonus action, you can expend one use of Bardic
Inspiration to restore your Inkpiece’s hit points for an

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 39

 CLERIC: HEARTH DOMAIN Cleric Level Spells
The law of hospitality mandates that all guests 7th Fire Shield, Private Sanctum
and travelers be welcomed no matter their creed or
background. Clerics of Hearth live these virtues to 9th Animate Objects, Hallow
create safe havens from the prejudices of their conflict-
Kitchen God’s Blessing
ridden world. They maintain their homes and inns as
temples for gods like Jowangshin, welcoming the weary When you choose this domain at 1st Level, you gain
and feeding the hungry. Should anyone undermine the Produce Flame cantrip if you don’t already know it.
or take advantage of their generosity, their bodies In addition, you gain proficiency for Cook’s Utensils.
must serve as kindling for the fireplace. By the light of Your proficiency bonus is doubled for any ability
the hearth, those that serve the gods of this domain check you make that uses this tool.
ignite the beacon that all who seek compassion and
redemption can follow. Channel Divinity: Law of Hospitality
Starting at 2nd level, you can use your Channel
Hearth Domain Spells Divinity to materialize the divine right of the guest and
divine duty of the host.
Cleric Level Spells
As an action, you present your holy symbol, and
1st Alarm, Sleep
a sphere conjuring all the warmth and memories of
3rd Calm Emotions, Flaming Sphere comrades sitting before the hearth centers around you.
5th Create Food and Water, Fireball The sphere has a 30 ft radius, warding those within

40 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

it and lighting the area with dim light. The sphere of a Lifetime in addition to any other effects if they are
moves with you and lasts for 1 minute until you are cast while using this ability. Each creature that partakes
incapacitated or die. in your meal gains temporary hit points equal to your
While in the sphere, any creature who targets the Cleric level + your Wisdom modifier.
warded creature with an attack or a harmful spell must In addition, once per long rest when you make
first make a Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, the a meal by making an ability check using a Cook’s
creature must choose a new target that isn’t similarly Utensils, creatures who partake in your meal regain a
warded or lose the attack or spell. number of hit dice equal to the first digit of the number
If the warded creature makes an attack, casts a spell rolled.
that affects an enemy creature, or leaves the sphere, they Potent Spellcasting
lose this protection until Law of Hospitality is newly
channeled. This feature doesn’t protect the warded Starting at 8th level, you add your Wisdom modifier
creatures from area Effects such as the explosion of to the damage you deal with any cleric cantrip.
a Fireball. If you take any hostile action, the sphere Soothe the Wounded Heart
dissipates early.
Starting at 17th level, you and friendly creatures
Meal of a Lifetime spending a short rest together can regain hit dice used
At 6th level, your culinary abilities evolve at such a for short rests and gain the healing benefits of a long
rate, your meals bring people divine inspiration. As part rest early. Targets cannot gain the benefits such as
of a short or long rest, you prepare a meal for up to six regaining spell slots, the use of any class features, or
creatures. Spells that create food, such as Create Food preparing spells in this way. Once you use this feature,
and Water or Heroes’ Feast, gain the benefit of Meal you can’t use it again until you finish a long rest.

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 41

 DRUID: CIRCLE OF THE MEDIUM At 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th level you gain access to the
spells listed for that level in the Circle of the Medium
Mediums believe pestilence to be forms of
Spells table. Once you gain access to one of these spells,
malevolent spirits, born as results of wicked acts. In
you always have it prepared, and it doesn’t count against
accordance with that, removing pestilence alone is
the number of spells you can prepare each day. If you
insufficient and must be purified and transformed
gain access to a spell that doesn’t appear on the druid
to promote the order of the natural world. To that
spell list, the spell is nonetheless a druid spell for you.
end, Circle of the Medium Druids use their bodies as
receptacles to house these Gwishin, wayward spirits,, Circle of the Medium Spells
enduring possessions to cleanse their malice.
To prevent their minds from being overtaken by Druid Level Spells
their corruptive influence, a guardian spirit grants them 2nd Detect Evil and Good, Protection
its protection. With its help, Mediums weave back these from Evil and Good
malignant spirits into the natural world, bolstering it or
3rd Augury, Spiritual Weapon
its defenders against further contamination.
5th Clairvoyance, Speak With Dead
Circle Spells
7th Banishment, Death Ward
You have bonded to the spirit that first possessed
you, giving you great powers over the spiritual. At 2nd 9th Animate Objects, Dispel Evil and
level, you have the Protection from Evil and Good Good
spell prepared. It counts as a druid spell for you, and it
doesn’t count against the number of spells you can have
prepared.

42 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

Pestilence Eater
At 2nd level, you can use your body as a receptacle
for the diseases and curses that blight the world.
As a Bonus Action, you can choose one creature
within 30 ft. and remove a disease or curse or one of
the following conditions affecting them: Blinded,
Deafened, Paralyzed, or Poisoned. For each disease,
curse, or condition removed in this way, you gain a
d4 Gwishin die. For each Gwishin die you carry, your
current and maximum Hit Points decrease by 2.
You start the day with 1 Gwishin die and you can
gain Gwishin dice up to your Proficiency bonus.
When a creature that you can see within 30 ft. makes
an ability check, attack roll, or a saving throw, you can
use a Reaction to expend a use of one of your Gwishin Channel Suffering
dice, and roll it to subtract the result from the creature’s At 6th level, your ability to channel curses increases.
roll. Once per turn, when you roll for damage, you can
Your Gwishin die increases when you reach certain roll up to as many Gwishin dice as you have and deal
levels in this class. Your Gwishin die increases to 1d6 at additional necrotic damage equal to your result. You do
6th level, 1d8 at 10th level, and 1d10 at 14th level. not expend any Gwishin dice this way.
You can use this feature a number of times equal to
Heavenly Guardian your Wisdom modifier and you regain all expended uses
At 2nd level, you call forth your guardian spirit to of it after a long rest.
use your body as an arbiter for divine protection. As an
action, you can expend a use of your Wild Shape feature Master Medium
and enter into a half-conscious trance. Your appearance When you reach 10th level, your body develops the
changes, matching that of the guardian spirit you’re endurance to handle the strain of accepting stronger
channeling. While this feature is active, you gain the spirits into it. When you use your Heavenly Guardian
following benefits: feature, you can make an additional weapon attack as
• You gain 5 temporary hit points for each of part of the Attack action and gain a Flying speed of 30
your Druid levels. ft. until the transformation ends.
• At the start of your turn, you gain an Redemption of the Polluted Soul
additional Gwishin die. At 14th level, the afflictions you’ve gathered inside
• You can roll concentration checks with of you are cleansed and ascend into the form of your
Advantage. guardian spirit. If you are reduced to 0 hit points while
you have Gwishin dice remaining, you immediately gain
• As a bonus action, select a creature besides the benefits of your Heavenly Guardian feature without
yourself within 30 ft. of you. You can expend expending any of your remaining Wild Shape uses. You
and roll as many Gwishin dice as you have. must expend and roll any remaining Gwishin dice and
That creature gains temporary hit points you regain a number of hit points equal to your result.
equal to the result of your rolls.
Once you use this feature, you can’t use it again until
you finish a long rest.

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 43

 FIGHTER: DEADEYE you use this feature again, or they maintain full cover
from you for at least one minute. You cannot mark a
Though many archers develop clever tactics firing
target who you have currently marked.
magical or trick arrows, a Deadeye relies on no such
gimmicks. They’re snipers for whom aim is everything. You can use this feature a number of times equal to
While they may not hit their mark’s vitals each time, your proficiency bonus, and you regain all expended
their working knowledge of creatures’ biological uses of it when you finish a long rest.
functions serves to ensure each of their shots debilitates
their targets.
Called Shot
At 3rd level, you’ve become skilled at debilitating
Hawkeye your quarry with precise shots against them. When
Starting at 3rd level, your training with the bow has you take the attack action, you can declare a Called
improved your aim beyond the limits of most warriors. Shot against a creature that you’ve marked with your
You gain Proficiency with Perception and you add Hawkeye feature and hit with a ranged weapon attack.
double your Proficiency Bonus to any check used to On a hit, you deal your attack damage as normal, and
detect creatures in your surroundings. the target must make a saving throw with the ability
associated with your chosen shot or suffer its additional
In addition, as a Bonus Action, you can mark a
effects.
creature within 150 ft. You ignore half cover and three-
quarters cover against the marked creature and you can Called Shot save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus
declare a Called Shot against them. They continue to + your Strength or Dexterity modifier
be marked until either you or they drop to 0 hit points,

44 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

 Some Called Shot effects can be treated with the purpose of overcoming resistance and immunity to
Wisdom (Medicine) checks or magical healing; if such nonmagical attacks and damage. Your projectiles only
an effect is treated while the target is still marked, you count as such when fired and are nonmagical in any
may use that effect on the target again. Otherwise, you other situation.
may not use a Called Shot effect on a creature who has In addition, as an Action, you can fire a projectile
failed its saving throw against that effect during the in a line up to as long as your normal range and 5
duration of its current mark. feet wide. The line must end in a space occupied by a
Chest Shot (Constitution): The target takes 1d6 creature. Each creature in the line must roll a Dexterity
damage at the start of each of its turns due to a bleeding saving throw against your Called Shot DC. A creature
wound. Any creature can take an action to stanch the takes damage equal to your weapon’s damage plus your
bleeding with a successful Wisdom (Medicine) check Dexterity modifier on a failed saving throw or half as
against your Called Shot DC. The wound also closes if much on a successful one.
the target receives magical healing.
Defensive Shot
The damage die for Bleeding damage increases to
2d6 at 7th level, 3d6 at 15th level, and 4d6 at 18th level. Starting at 15th level, when a creature you have
This shot has no effect against Constructs or Undead marked attacks a target other than you, you may use
creatures. your reaction to make one ranged weapon attack
against the marked creature. This attack may be a
Hand Shot (Strength): The target drops one item Called Shot. The attack occurs before the creature
or weapon held in their hand and it falls 5 ft. away makes its attack.
from them.
Head Shot (Consitution): You can roll an Jumong’s Gambit
additional damage die when determining the damage Starting at 18th level, you can roll your next ranged
your target takes. You can roll two additional damage weapon attack roll after declaring a Called Shot with
die at 7th level, three at 15th level, and four at 18th Disadvantage. On a successful hit, you can roll double
level. your damage dice and the target automatically fails on
Leg Shot (Dexterity): The target’s speed is halved their saving throw against your Called Shot effect.
and they have Disadvantage on Dexterity saving throws.
Any creature can use an action to remove this penalty
with a successful Wisdom (Medicine) check against
your Called Shot DC. The penalty also ends if the
target receives magical healing.
Vital Shot (Constitution): The target is Stunned
until the end of your next turn.
The effect names are not requirements; it is possible
to inflict any effect on any creature, regardless of the
presence of limbs, heads, and so forth.

Peerless Sniper
At 7th level, your range as an archer expands to cover
greater distances. Your normal and long ranges for all
ranged weapons double, including for melee weapons
you can throw.

Piercing Bolt
At 7th level, your ability to detect weak spots of any
creature becomes near-supernatural. Any projectile
you fire from a ranged weapon counts as magical for
Undying Corruption: Subclasses 45
 MONK: WAY OF THE DOSA WOOD
The Five Agents flows in an eternal
cycle, strengthening and transforming into
one another and taking on ethereal form
in the process. A spiritual monk finds their
EARTH OVERCOMES FIRE
balance in these flows, then steps into the stream
where they will make themselves a part of it. With Air
greater skill comes deeper steps and greater strengths,
but also a greater commitment to the flow.
Each of the five elements strengthens one element
and is strengthened by another; Each has an associated
damage type. As the Dosa flows in harmony from one
element to the next, each element strengthens the Dosa WATER METAL
in various ways depending on the monk’s level.

Air Earth Fire Metal Water Wood

Strengthens All Metal Earth Water Wood Fire

Is Strengthened By All Fire Wood Earth Metal Water

Damage Type Lightning Poison Fire Bludgeoning, Piercing, Acid Radiant

or Slashing

46 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

First Steps into the Generative Flow can maintain a number of these objects
equal to your Wisdom modifier. If you try
At 3rd level, you find your balance in the harmony of
to create a new object beyond the maximum
elements and take your first steps in the generative flow.
amount you can create, the earliest one you
As a Bonus Action, you can spend 1 ki point to enter
created dissipates. If the object you create
the Flow of Generation Form for 10 minutes.
would be harmful to come into contact with,
When you first enter the Flow of Generation Form, it deals one roll of your martial arts die of its
you select an element with which to align your body. associated damage type.
At the beginning of your turn, you can move to the
element your current element strengthens. When you First Steps into the Overcoming Flow
take the Attack action, you can choose to add one of At 6th level, you gain sufficient poise to begin
the following benefits: dabbling in the more dangerous and more destructive
• When you hit a creature with an unarmed overcoming flow.
strike or monk weapon, you deal additional When you enter Flow of Generation Form, you gain
damage equal to one roll of your martial arts the following additional benefits:
die + your wisdom modifier, of the damage
• You gain resistance to the damage type
type associated with your current element.
associated with your current element.
• When you hit a creature, you grant the next
• You harness the elements through your
creature that attacks that creature Advantage
punches into focused shots made at great
on their first attack roll and if they hit, they
distances. You can make ranged unarmed
deal additional damage equal to your martial
strikes with a range of 30 ft., dealing damage
arts die, of the type associated with your
equal to your martial arts die plus your
current element.
Wisdom modifier with its damage type
• You can replace one of your actions to being the type associated with your current
create a simple object that can fit in a 5 element.
foot cube within 30 feet, made out of your
current element. Ut occupies its space and it
maintains its shape for as long as you remain
in your Flow of Generation Form, and you

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 47

 To Move With It Is To Move It generate an explosive reaction inside their
body. The target must make a Constitution
At 11th level, you enter or accelerate the progression
saving throw against your Ki save DC. On a
of the cycle in the face of danger. As a Reaction, if
failure, they take damage equal to 5 martial
you would take damage of a type associated with an
arts dice with the damage type associated with
element, you can spend 1 Ki Point to align to that
your current element, or half as much on a
element. This activates the Flow of Generation Form
successful saving throw.
if you are not already in it. On your next turn, your
attacks deal additional damage equal to your martial Subsumed in the Flow
arts die of the type associated with your current
At 17th level, your mastery of the elemental cycles is
element.
as natural to you as breathing. Once per turn, when you
deal damage to a creature while in Flow of Generation
Submerged in the Flow Form, you can inflict Vulnerability to the target against
Also at 11th level, your mastery of the flow increases. the damage type associated with your current element.
Your forms gain additional effects: This Vulnerability lasts until they take that damage for
• Also at 11th level, your mastery of the flow the first time or until the start of your next turn.
increases. Your Flow of Generation form
gains the following additional effects:
• As a reaction, you can give another creature
within 60 feet the benefit of one of your
monk features, based on your current
element, until the end of their next turn.
These abilities still use your statistics and
ki save DC and you must still spend the
requisite cost in Ki Points for each monk
ability.
° Air: Evasion
° Fire: Stunning Strike
° Earth: Slow Fall
° Metal: Deflect Missiles
° Water: Stillness of Mind
° Wood: Purity of Body (also
negates the Potioned
condition and any
current diseases or
poisons the target is
afflicted with)
• If a creature is resistant or immune
to the damage type associated with
your current element, your attack’s
damage type is instead associated
with the element that your element is
strengthened by.
• If you hit with both your unarmed
attacks against the same target when
you use Flurry of Blows, you channel the
power of the elements into your target to

48 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

PALADIN - OATH OF THE MYSTICS Tenets of the Mystics
In the world the gods created, they’ve left to mortals The tenets of the Oath of the Mystics task paladins
Arcana, a means of understanding and manipulating to guard the lands against the misuse of magic.
the laws of creation. Paladins who follow the Oath of
the Mystics swear to protect arcane knowledge and Seek Knowledge. Appreciate the nigh-infinite
oversee the applications of magic against its abuse. vastness of the realms and be voracious in learning
While they understand that the arcane arts can ease new information.
and elevate the lives of the common man, they stand Impart Knowledge. Never withhold information
as bulwarks against the greed of sorcerer kings and lich from people that cannot be used to harm others
lords that resulted in untold casualties in the past. or themselves. Be generous with sharing what
The warriors that answer this calling are usually you’ve learned from your experiences with people.
studious guardians that hone both their bodies and
Preserve Knowledge. Do not tolerate the
minds to understand and protect themselves against
destruction or the abuse of information. All
these wicked mages. Such paladins can often be found
knowledge must be preserved and any efforts to
in service of deities of magic or under the employ
destroy or exploit them against the lives of people
of arcane universities, charged with protecting their
must be subdued.
libraries and forbidden vaults. Many swear allegiance to
good-aligned dragons to protect their troves full of lost Temperance. Steel yourself against the mellifluous
secrets that could devastate the world in fell hands. voices of wicked creatures that tempt you with
power. Might attained by simple means must be
paid with an impossible debt.

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 49

 Oath Spells Spatial Cleave
You gain oath spells at the paladin levels listed. At 15th level, your control over the arcane allows
you to cleave through space, opening a temporary rift
Oath of the Mystics Spells in dimensions. As a Bonus Action, you can teleport up
your movement speed to an unoccupied space you can
Paladin Level Spells
see.
3rd Identify, Magic Missile
Governor of Magic
5th Arcane Lock, Detect Thoughts
At 20th level, you wield the authority befitting the
9th Counterspell, Lightning Bolt ultimate arbitrator of magical power.
13th Dimension Door, Resilient Sphere Using your action, you undergo a transformation.
17th Telekinesis, Telepathic Bond For 1 minute, you gain the following benefits:
• You gain resistance to all damage from spells
Channel Divinity and magical effects.
When you take this oath at 3rd level, you gain the
• Your weapon channels magical energy that
following two Channel Divinity options.
adds an extra damage die on a successful hit.
• Scholar’s Revelation. You can use your If the target was concentrating on a spell, after
Channel Divinity to open your mind to taking damage, they automatically drop their
greater learning. As a bonus action, you grant concentration.
yourself a +5 bonus on Arcana, Nature,
• When you hit a creature with a melee weapon
Religion, and History checks for the next 10
attack and deal damage to it, you can force
minutes. In addition, in this state, you can
it to make a Charisma saving throw against
spend a minute reading to finish an entire
your spell save DC. On a failed save, their
book or scroll.
attunement to a magic item is severed until
• Spellsunder. You can use your Channel they spend another Short Rest attuning to it.
Divinity to sever the flow of magic
Once you use this feature, you can’t use it again until
augmenting the wicked. When you hit a
you finish a long rest.
creature under the effects a spell with a
weapon attack, you can make an ability check
using your Charisma modifier and your
proficiency bonus against a DC of 10 + the
spell’s level.
On a success, the effect ends early and the target is
Incapacitated until the end of their next turn.

Aura of Spell Turning

Beginning at 7th level, your understanding of the
arcane arts hones your aura and allows it to dilute
harmful spells. You and friendly creatures within 10 ft
of you have Advantage on saving throws against spells.
In addition, for each creature that succeeds on their
save, the caster (if they are also in the aura) takes 1d6
force damage as the force of their magic reflects back
onto them.
At 18th level, the range of this aura increases to 30 ft.

50 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

RANGER - EMISSARY OF PARADISE
You’ve had near death experiences that transported
you to the magnificent Flower Fields of Seocheon.
Or perhaps, you’ve been gifted with visions of distant Emissary of Paradise Spells
planes where flora of unrivaled beauty bloom far Ranger Level Spells
across the horizons. This fateful occurrence gifted you
with the natural magic of the celestial planes which 3rd Sanctuary
you’ve dedicated to use to expand the paradise you’ve 5th Mirror Image
witnessed. Channeling the beauty of these divine
9th Beacon of Hope
blossoms, you return life to the wastes and shame your
foes’ actions with their ugliness. 13th Banishment

Blessed Harvest 17th Mass Cure Wounds

At 3rd level, you channel the life energy of the divine
flowers of paradise into your attacks. When you hit a
Aspect of Paradise
creature with a weapon, you deal 1d4 radiant damage to Through your connection with the flower fields of
the target, which can take this extra damage only once paradise, you gain a divine aspect representing your
per turn. link. Choose your aspect from the Aspect of Paradise
table or determine it randomly.
The extra damage increases to 1d6 when you reach
11th level in this class. d6 Gift

Emissary of Paradise Magic 1 Spectral flowers grow from the ground and
disappear with each step you take.
At 3rd level, you learn an additional spell when
you reach certain levels in this class, as shown in the 2 Your smile radiates with a brief dim light out
Emissary of Paradise Spells table. Each spell counts as to a 5 ft. radius and a gentle warmth felt by
a ranger spell for you, but it doesn’t count against the others.
number of ranger spells you know. 3 You’re wreathed by a raiment made of
illusory flowers.

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 51

 d6 Gift They also gain double the temporary Hit Point bonus
of your Photosynthesis feature while in this area.
4 Your skin glimmers in the light and you can
change its color to match the hue of your Gates of Paradise
favorite flowers. When you reach 15th level, you are gifted by the
5 You faintly smell of honey or a fragrant spice. celestial planes with a key to your personal paradise.
Once per long rest, you gain the ability to cast
6 Minor spirits dance around you while
Demiplane.
nobody is paying attention.
In addition, when you make a successful attack
Language of Flowers against an enemy, you can banish them into your
Demiplane, incapacitated, for 1 minute. They must
At 3rd level, you learn the Druidcraft cantrip which succeed on a Charisma saving throw against your spell
counts as a Ranger spell for you. You also become DC or be banished. They can repeat their saving throws
proficient in your choice of one of the following skills: at the end of their turn. On a success, they reappear in
Medicine, Nature, or Religion. You also imbue flowers the space they left or in the nearest unoccupied space if
within 15 ft. with limited sentience, giving them the that space is occupied.
ability to communicate with you. You can ask up to
three questions which they answer according to their You can only use this feature a number of times
limited knowledge of their surroundings to the best of equal to your proficiency bonus, and you regain all
their abilities. expended uses when you finish a long rest.

Once you use this feature, you can’t use it again until Ready
you finish a short or long rest. Sometimes you want to get the jump on a foe or wait
Photosynthesis for a particular circumstance before you act. To do so,
you can take the Ready action on your turn, which lets
By 7th level, your link with paradise strengthens, you act using your reaction before the start of your next
granting you the aspects of the flowers blooming in the turn.
celestial gardens. You gain Resistance against Radiant
damage. First, you decide what perceivable circumstance
will trigger your reaction. Then, you choose the action
In addition, as a Bonus Action while in dim light, you will take in response to that trigger, or you choose
you and any ally within 10 ft. gains 1d4 temporary to move up to your speed in response to it. Examples
hit points. This bonus increases to 1d8 while in include “If the cultist steps on the trapdoor, I’ll pull the
bright light. Targets do not lose these temporary hit lever that opens it,” and “If the goblin steps next to me,
points while in darkness. An ally cannot benefit from I move away.”
Photosynthesis again until they have lost all temporary
hit points. When the trigger occurs, you can either take your
reaction right after the trigger finishes or ignore the
Eternal Gardens trigger. Remember that you can take only one reaction
At 11th level, you gain the power to spread the per round.
spectral roots of the celestial flower fields through When you ready a spell, you cast it as normal but
the Plant Growth spell. It doesn’t count against the hold its energy, which you release with your reaction
number of Ranger spells you know and you can cast it when the trigger occurs. To be readied, a spell must have
once per long rest without using a spell slot. a casting time of 1 action, and holding onto the spell’s
You can cast Plant Growth to target a space that magic requires concentration. If your concentration is
doesn’t have any plants. Doing so covers a 30 ft. radius broken, the spell dissipates without taking effect. For
centered on that point with spectral flowers. Designated example, if you are concentrating on the web spell and
creatures up to your Wisdom modifier (minimum 1) ready magic missile, your web spell ends, and if you
are not impeded by the difficult terrain of this area. take damage before you release magic missile with your
reaction, your concentration might be broken.

52 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

ROGUE: NARAKA PROSECUTOR Accuser
Death comes for all beings without distinction, but Starting at 3rd level, you become proficient in
malcontents who subvert the cycle of souls exploit this Insight and Intimidation if you aren’t already. In
even-handed system. When ordinary psychopomps fail addition, you gain expertise with these skills, which
to capture these fugitives, the Narakwangs call in those means your proficiency bonus is doubled for any ability
outside the boundaries of their laws to uphold order. check you make with them.
As agents of the Underworld, these rogues hound those
that defy the call of death to deliver them their divine Karmic Mediator
punishment. At 3rd level, your movements become one with the
To accomplish this feat, the Narakwangs unlocked ripples and waves of karma pressuring the universe. You
in them the ability to see the ebbs and flows of karmas. can use your Cunning Action to take a Ready action. If
They instinctively move alongside the ripples of intent you deal Sneak Attack damage from a Readied attack,
emanating from outlaws and strike first. Being sensitive the target takes psychic damage equal to the roll’s total
to the slightest changes in people’s wills paves the road in place of the original Sneak Attack damage.
toward suspicion for ordinary mortals.
Underworld Arbiter
However you attained this power, you have
dedicated your life to prosecuting and executing those At 9th level, the number of creatures you’ve
that would cheat death. prosecuted has earned the attention of the Ten
Narakwang. You’re gifted with Resistance against
Necrotic damage.
In addition, when you deal Sneak Attack damage,

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 53

 you can force the target to make a Wisdom saving used to attack against your Judgment save DC.
throw (DC 8 + your proficiency bonus + your On a failure, they automatically miss and gain
Charisma modifier). On a failure, the creature becomes Disadvantage on any attack they make until the
Frightened for 1 minute. end of their turn.
A creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of Greed-Impaling Thrust: If you successfully attack
each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. a creature for Using an Object, they must attempt
You regain all expended uses when you finish a long a Strength or Dexterity saving throw (whichever
rest. You regain a use of this feature (up to a maximum is higher) against your Judgment save DC. On a
equal to your proficiency bonus) when your attack failure, they are disarmed and forced to drop the
reduces a Frightened creature’s Hit Points to 0. object in an adjacent space.
Hell’s Judgment Tongue-Splitting Strike: If you successfully
At 13th level, you’ve perfected techniques inspired attack a creature for casting a spell, they attempt a
by the punishments doled out by the task masters of the saving throw with their spellcasting ability against
underworld to deliver preemptive, debilitating strikes your Judgment save DC. On a failure, they
against foes. When you use your Bonus Action to cannot speak until the end of their turn. During
Ready an Action, you gain the following benefits: this duration, the targeted creature cannot cast
Saving Throws. Your techniques require your spells with a verbal component.
target to make a saving throw to resist the technique’s You can use this feature a number of times equal to
effects. The saving throw DC is calculated as follows: your proficiency bonus, and you regain all expended
Judgment save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus + uses of it when you finish a long rest.
your Charisma modifier Chthonic Justice
Black-Thread Whip: If you successfully attack At 17th level, the merciless path you’ve walked
a creature for using a Move action, they must transforms you into one of King Yeomra’s living avatars,
attempt a Dexterity saving throw against your granting you authority to dole out punishment to any
Judgment save DC. On a failure, they fall Prone sin. You can take an additional reaction per round that
and their speed is reduced to 0 ft. until the end of you can only use to take a Readied Action.
their turn. If you use your reaction to move, your karma-guided
Hand-Crushing Swing: If you successfully attack movement does not provoke an opportunity attack.
a creature for making an Attack action, they
must make a saving throw with the ability they

54 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

SORCERER: NINE-TAILED SOUL Fox Marble
In another lifetime, you or an ancestor crossed paths Starting at 1st level, you can imbue a spherical stone
with a Gumiho, a shapeshifting, nine-tailed fox whose with the essence of your soul as a Fox Marble. You can
longevity is owed to accumulating energy eating the use it as a spellcasting focus. Additionally, as an action,
hearts and magic of mortals. This energy is crystallized you can use the Fox Marble to magically transform
into the terminal for their soul which they craft called into the shape of a Fox. The rules for the Druid’s Wild
the Fox Marble. Though they are often tricksters, a Shape apply to your transformation. You can use this
mortal may get the best of them by claiming the marble feature up to a number of times equal to your Charisma
for themselves. A Gumiho who seeks to renounce their modifier. If you have no uses of this feature remaining,
destructive hunger may be fortunate to ally with a you can spend 1 Sorcery Point to use it. You regain
sympathetic partner. expended uses when you finish a Long Rest.
The reservoir of magical power they’ve stockpiled At 2nd level, at the start of your long rest, you can
manifest within you as a sorcerer. This power can curse store up to a number of unused Sorcery Points equal
the Nine-Tailed Soul with an unceasing hunger for to your Charisma modifier into your Fox Marble. You
magical energy, but if tamed, the guile and bestial might can tap into your Fox Marble as an additional source for
of the trickster fox will be at your disposal. Sorcery Points.

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 55

 The Fox Marble reverts to an ordinary stone if • You grow a set of spectral fox tails. You can
moved 60 ft away from you. It is a Tiny object with AC use them to make a melee spell attack. On
15 and 5 hit points, and it is immune to poison and a successful hit, you deal 2d8 bludgeoning
psychic damage. If the Fox Marble is destroyed or lost, damage plus your Charisma modifier in
you must spend an hour during a short or long rest to addition to a number of d8’s equal to the
create another. Only one Fox Marble you create may number of sorcery points spent. Your damage
exist at a time. die improves to d10 at 18th level in this class.

Nine-Tailed Magic • You can cast a cantrip or spell with a range

of touch as part of your fox tail attack by
You learn additional spells when you reach certain spending a number of sorcery points equal to
levels in this class, as shown on the Nine-Tailed Spells the spell’s level (1 sorcery point if the spell is
table. Each spell counts as a sorcerer spell for you, but it a cantrip). On a hit, the target suffers damage
doesn’t count against the number of sorcerer spells you from your fox tail attack and the spell’s effects.
know. These spells can’t be replaced when you gain a
level in this class. Soul Marble
Starting at 18th level, when you die, your Fox
Sorcerer Level Spells
Marble captures your soul. While your soul inhabits the
1st Inflict Wounds, Silent Image Marble, you are aware of your surroundings as if you
3rd Mirror Image, Moonbeam were in its space. You may project your soul up to 100
ft as an incorporeal shadow. Your incorporeal shadow
5th Counterspell, Dispel Magic cannot physically interact with other creatures or
7th Confusion, Phantasmal Killer objects, though you’re able to perceive each other. You
may move through objects or creatures.
9th Mislead, Modify Memory
You gain a new body in a day, regaining all of your
Steal Magic Hit Points. Your new body appears within 5 ft of your
Beginning at 6th level, when you cast Counterspell Fox Marble. If your Fox Marble is destroyed before your
or Dispel Magic and successfully interrupt or end a new body rejuvenates, your soul is released and you pass
spell, you gain Sorcery Points equal to the level of that on into the afterlife.
spell (maximum of 5). If you gain a number of Sorcery
Points that surpasses the amount you gain at your level,
you can store any excess points into your Fox Marble. In
addition, as long as you have Sorcery Points remaining,
you can use your Reaction to halve magical damage.

Beast of Calamity
Starting at 14th level, you can transform into the
shape of the Gumiho whose blood runs through your
veins. As a bonus action, you can spend up to 5
sorcery points to transform your body for 1
minute. You gain the following benefits:
• You gain temporary hit
points equal to your
sorcery points spent +
your Sorcerer level.
• Your reach and
movement speed
increase by 5 ft.

56 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

WARLOCK: JEOSEUNG SAJA PATRON Spell Level Spells
Your patron is a Jeoseung Saja, a herald that 1st False Life, Hunter’s Mark
represents the bureaucracy governing the cycle between
life and death. They answer to Princess Bari, the 2nd Pass Without Trace, Silence
Goddess of Passing, who ordered her servants to bring 3rd Bestow Curse, Spirit Guardians
peaceful passage in death. Without compromise, they
4th Locate Creature, Phantasmal Killer
pursue souls marked for death to the ends of the world
without rest. 5th Flame Strike (necrotic instead of
radiant), Reincarnate
You may have had a brush with death that put
you into contact with a Jeoseung Saja. Through this Regalia of the Death God
fateful encounter, you signed a contract and found
employment within the underworld bureaucracy. You At 1st Level, you can use your bonus action to wear
may have experienced the terror of undeath and decided the uniform of the Jeoseung Saja for 1 minute. Your
to fight it through the system you’ve entered. shadow wraps around you and your body no longer
emits warmth, but the chilling mist of the graveyard.
Gifted with the Regalia of the Death God, you can You gain the following benefits while transformed:
mark those destined for death and protect yourself
against necrotic energies. • Your base AC equals 13 + your Charisma
modifier.
Expanded Spell List • You gain resistance to Necrotic damage.
The Jeoseung Saja lets you choose from an expanded • The damage you deal against an Undead
list of spells when you learn a warlock spell. The creature ignores their resistance to necrotic
following spells are added to the warlock spell list for damage.
you.

Undying Corruption: Subclasses 57

 • Once during each of your turns, as a Bonus Reaper’s Judgment
Action, you can force your quarry targeted by
At 14th level, the pain your weapons inflict is
any warlock spell that curses or marks a target
amplified by the weight of your target’s sins. While
to make a Charisma saving throw, and if the
donning the Regalia of the Death God, your result
saving throw fails, their speed is reduced to 0
when rolling damage dice for weapon attacks or
on their next turn.
warlock spells that curse or mark a target is always
You can transform a number of times equal to your maximized. For example, instead of dealing 1d6 damage
Charisma modifier and you regain all expended uses to a creature, you deal 6.
when you finish a long rest.

Underworldly Vision
At 6th level, you begin to perceive the
shapes of mortality among the living. You
gain the ability to sense living beings
within 30 ft of you and if you can see
them and they are in direct line of sight
of you, perceive what (if anything)
threatens to kill them within the next
minute.
In addition, you no longer need to
maintain concentration over spells
that curse or mark a target.

Princess Bari’s Blessing

At 10th level, the patron
deity of the Jeoseung
Saja, Princess Bari,
acknowledges your deeds
and blesses your regalia
with a personal mark. When
you use a bonus action to
mark or curse a target, you can
use your Regalia of the Death
God feature without spending
an action. You gain advantage on
death saving throws.
In addition, while having donned
the Regalia of the Death God, you gain
the following benefits:
• All attacks made against a creature you
have cursed or marked have Advantage.
• You gain incorporeal movement. You
can move through other creatures and
objects as if they were Difficult Terrain. You
take 1d10 force damage if you end your turn
inside a creature or object and are forced out
into an adjacent space.

58 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

WIZARD: SCHOOL OF ASTROMANCY Stargazer
The Heavens have long captured the imaginations of Starting at 2nd level, you create a Tiny spyglass in
mages and laymen alike, but the School of Astromancy your free hand, marking your initiation into the School
recognizes wisdom and power in the birth, collapse, of Astromancy. The magic spyglass has the following
and movement of stars. Considered an offshoot of the properties:
school of Divination, Astromancers are adept at reading • You can use the Spyglass as a spellcasting
destiny in stars more ancient than their planet. They focus for your wizard spells.
draw from the ambient energies of the cosmos found
in near-eternal supply to power their spells beyond • The Spyglass is considered to be a Navigator’s
ordinary boundaries. Tool. You are considered Proficient with
the Navigator’s Tools. Add double your
To become an Astromancer requires years of study Proficiency bonus to the check, instead of
in not just the arcane arts, but also astronomy. Rigorous your normal proficiency bonus.
study must be paired with an iron discipline to identify
and appreciate magic beyond the firmament, but also • Once per long rest, after casting a Divination
to resist the deceitful whispers of the entities that exist spell of up to 3rd level, you may regain the
there. spell slot that you’ve used.
If your magic spyglass is lost, you must spend 1
hour during a short or long rest to create another. The
spyglass does not function for anybody except you and
cannot be sold.
Undying Corruption: Subclasses 59
 Nova Casting • Evocation: When you roll damage from an
Evocation spell of 1st level or higher, you may
At 2nd level, you can imbue your spells with celestial
reroll any 1’s and 2’s. You must use your new
power.
result even if it is lower.
When you cast a spell with a spell slot, you can
• Illusion: When you cast an Illusion spell of
substitute the damage type with Radiant (you can
1st level or higher, you can also turn yourself
change only one damage type per casting of the spell).
Invisible (concentration required). You
In addition, you can blind a creature that took maintain concentration from the spell if any
radiant damage from your spell or feature for 1 minute. and Invisibility as if they were the same effect.
They must make a Constitution saving throw against You remain invisible for the spell’s duration
your spell save DC or be blinded. At the end of each of or until you attack or cast another spell.
their turns, they may make a new Constitution saving
• Necromancy: When you cast a Necromancy
throw. On a success, they are no longer blinded. Once
spell of 1st level or higher, you gain temporary
you use this effect, you can’t do so again until you take a
hit points equal to 5 x the spell’s level.
short or long rest.
• Transmutation: When you cast a
Stellar Realignment Transmutation spell of 1st level or higher,
At 6th level, during your spell preparation, you your target also gains the effects of the Haste
Align your spyglass with a constellation associated spell (concentration required). You maintain
with one school of magic, bolstering your spellcasting concentration from the spell if any and Haste
aptitude. When you cast a spell of a school your spyglass as if they were part of the same effect.
is aligned to, you can choose to enhance it with its You can enhance a spell like this once and regain
respective benefit: the ability to do so after a short or long rest. Starting at
• Abjuration: When you cast an Abjuration 10th level, you can align your spyglass to two schools of
spell of 1st level or higher, your target gains magic and enhance your spells twice. At 14th level, you
temporary hit points equal to your Wizard can align your spyglass to three schools of magic and
level. While these temporary hit points are enhance your spells three times.
still active, any enemy that attacks the targeted
creature takes force damage equal to your
Grand Cross
Wizard level. Starting at 10th level, you’re in constant alignment
with the heavens and receive their protection. You gain
• Conjuration: When you cast a Conjuration
resistance to radiant damage.
spell of 1st level or higher to summon a
creature, they gain +2 to their Armor Class. Supernova
In addition, their attack rolls and saving
Starting at 14th level, as an action, you can expend a
throws receive a 1d4 bonus.
use of Stellar Realignment to summon a Tiny star in an
• Divination: After you cast a Divination unoccupied space within 150 ft of you and force it to
spell of 1st level or higher, you may choose explode. Each creature within 20 ft radius from the star
to succeed on your next saving throw. This must make a Dexterity saving throw against your spell
effect is expended if you do not use it within save DC. They take 10d10 radiant damage on a failed
1 minute. save, or half as much as a successful one.
• Enchantment: When casting an
Enchantment spell of 1st level or higher
against a creature you’re in combat with,
they cannot benefit from Advantage on their
saving throw against the spell.

60 Undying Corruption: Subclasses

 CLASSES

TACTICIAN Hit Points At Higher Levels: 1d8 (or 5) + your

Constitution modifier per Tactician level after 1st
Leaders on the battlefield, Tacticians advance their
forces from the front lines, carrying out their strategies Proficiencies
directly. The keen observations and timing of an expert Armor: Light Armor, Medium Armor, Shields
strategian can fulfill all the conditions necessary to Weapons: Simple Weapons, Martial Weapons, all
overcome the fiercest of foes. Outside of battle, their firearms
keen intuition and education prove to be effective Tools: Calligrapher’s Supplies and one instrument of
leadership tools. your choice of your choice
Saving Throws: Wisdom, Charisma
Class Features Skills: Choose three from Animal Handling,
As a Tactician, you gain the following class features. Athletics, Deception, History, Insight,
Intimidation, Perception, Performance, and
Hit Points
Persuasion
Hit Dice: 1d8 per Tactician level
Hit Points at 1st Level: 8 + your Constitution
modifier

Undying Corruption: Classes 61

 THE TACTICIAN
Level Proficiency Bonus Features Stratagems Known
1st +2 Defensive Riding, Trusted Mount -
2nd +2 Fighting Style, Stratagem (d6) 2
3rd +2 Military Art, Expertise 2
4th +2 Ability Score Improvement 2
5th +3 Extra Attack 2
6th +3 Art Feature, Discerning Eye 3
7th +3 Advanced Mount 3
8th +3 Ability Score Improvement 3
9th +4 Valiant Resistance (x1) 4
10th +4 Expertise, Stratagem (d8) 4
11th +4 Art Feature 4
12th +4 Ability Score Improvement 5
13th +5 Valiant Resistance (x2) 5
14th +5 Battle Tested Mount 5
15th +5 Art Feature 6
16th +5 Ability Score Improvement 6
17th +6 Valiant Resistance (x3) 6
18th +6 Legendary Mount, Stratagem (d10) 7
19th +6 Ability Score Improvement 7
20th +6 Master Strategist 7

Equipment Trusted Mount

You start with the following Equipment, in addition Beginning at 1st level, you’ve trained for years riding
to the Equipment granted by your background: on the back of a mount and developed a close bond
• (a) a martial weapon and a shield or (b) two with your companion. Choose one of the following
martial weapons options:
• (a) a light crossbow and 20 bolts or (b) a
longbow and 20 arrows
• (a) a Diplomat’s Pack or (b) an Explorer’s
Pack
• Scale Mail

62 Undying Corruption: Classes

Behemoth-Kin
Medium or Large Beast
Charge. If the Behemoth-Kin moves at least 20 ft.
straight toward a target and then hits it with a gore
Attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 9
Armor Class 13 + Proficiency Bonus (2d8) bludgeoning damage. If the target is a
Hit Points 5 + six times your Tactician level creature, it must succeed on a DC (8 + your
Speed 40 ft., Climb 30 ft. charisma modifier + proficiency bonus) Strength
saving throw or be knocked prone.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 4 (-3) 11 (+0) 4 (-3) Actions
Saving Throws mount’s Con modifier + Gore. Melee Weapon Attack: (your charisma
proficiency bonus modifier + proficiency bonus to hit), reach 5 ft., one
Senses: Passive Perception 10 creature. Hit: 1d8 + Proficiency Bonus piercing
Languages: Understands the languages you speak damage.
Challenge: -
Proficiency Bonus: equals your bonus

Sacred Serpent Actions

Medium or Large Dragon Constrict. Melee Weapon Attack: (your charisma
Armor Class 13 + Proficiency Bonus modifier + proficiency bonus to hit), reach 5 ft., one
Hit Points 5 + five times your Tactician level creature. Hit: 1d6 + Proficiency Bonus bludgeoning
Speed 40 ft., Swim 30 ft. damage. The target is grappled (escape DC (8+your
charisma modifier + proficiency bonus)). Until this
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA grapple ends, the target is restrained, and the
14 (+2) 12 (+1) 14 (+2) 10 (+0) 16 (+3) 14 (+2) Sacred Serpent can’t constrict another target.
Breath Weapon (Recharges after a short or long
Saving Throws: mount’s Wis modifier + proficiency rest). The Sacred Serpent exhales acidic gas in a
bonus 15 ft cone. Each creature in that area must make a
Senses: Darkvision 60 ft., Passive Perception 13 DC (8 + charisma modifier + proficiency bonus)
Languages: Can speak the languages you speak Dexterity saving throw, taking (2d6) acid damage on
Challenge: - a failed save, or half as much on a successful one.
Proficiency Bonus: equals your bonus

Amphibious: The Sacred Serpent can breathe air

and water.

Winged Companion Challenge: -

Proficiency Bonus: equals your bonus
Medium or Large Celestial

Armor Class 12 + Proficiency Bonus Thousand Ri Rush (Recharges after a short or

Hit Points 5 + four times your Tactician level long rest). As part of its movement, until the end of
Speed 40 ft., Fly 30 ft. its turn, the Companion can double your movement
speed and move without taking opportunity attacks.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 16 (+3) 12 (+1) 10 (+0) 14 (+2) 12 (+1) Actions
Slam. Melee Weapon Attack: (your charisma
Saving Throws mount’s Dex modifier + proficiency modifier + proficiency bonus to hit), reach 5 ft., one
bonus creature. Hit: 1d6 + Proficiency Bonus bludgeoning
Senses: Passive Perception 12 damage.
Languages: Understands the languages you speak

Undying Corruption: Classes 63

 Your mount obeys your commands as best as it can. Archery
It takes its turn during your turn in the Initiative order. You gain a +2 bonus to Attack rolls you make with
Your mount can move and use its reaction on its own, ranged Weapons.
but the only action it takes is the Dodge action, unless
you take a bonus action on your turn to command it Defense
to take another action. That action can be one in its While you are wearing armor, you gain a +1 bonus
stat block or some other action. You can also sacrifice to AC.
one of your attacks when you take the Attack action to
command the mount to take the Attack action. If you Dueling
are incapacitated, the mount can take any action of its When you are wielding a melee weapon in one hand
choice, not just Dodge. and no other Weapons, you gain a +2 bonus to Damage
During a Short Rest, you tend to your mount’s Rolls with that weapon.
wounds during your rest and it regains the Hit Points
that you also recover from spending your Hit Dice. Great Weapon Fighting

When your mount falls to 0 Hit Points, it doesn’t die When you roll a 1 or 2 on a damage die for an Attack
immediately and must make death saving throws. On you make with a melee weapon that you are wielding
its second success, it becomes stable and on its second with two hands, you can reroll the die and must use the
failure, it dies. new roll, even if the new roll is a 1 or a 2. The weapon
must have the Two-Handed or Versatile property for
If your mount has died within the last hour, you can you to gain this benefit.
use your action to touch it and expend a Hit die. The
mount returns to life by channeling your life energy Protection
through your shared bond after 1 minute with all its hit When a creature you can see attacks a target other
points restored. than you that is within 5 feet of you, you can use your
Defensive Riding Reaction to impose disadvantage on the Attack roll.
You must be wielding a Shield.
Beginning at 1st level, you and your mount deepen
your mutual bond in battle and protect one another. Stratagem
You gain the following benefits while you are mounted At 2nd level, you studied various tactics you can
and aren’t incapacitated: employ to outwit and outmaneuver your enemies.
• You gain +1 to your Armor Class while atop Stratagems: You learn two stratagems of your
your mount. choice. Based on your assessment of circumstances,
• If your mount takes damage, you can redirect you call to initiate a Stratagem to turn the tides of
the damage that your mount would take to the encounter in your favor. When you gain certain
yourself (no action required). Tactician levels, you learn additional stratagems of your
• As a Reaction, you can substitute your Armor choice, as shown in the Stratagems Known column of
Class for your mount’s Armor Class when an the Tactician table. A level prerequisite refers to your
enemy attacks them. level in this class.
Additionally, when you gain a level in this class, you
Fighting Style can choose one of the stratagems you know and replace
At 2nd level, you adopt a particular style of Fighting it with another stratagems that you could learn at that
as your specialty. Choose one of the following options. level.
You can’t take a Fighting Style option more than once, Stratagem Dice: You have a number of Stratagem
even if you later get to choose again. Dice (d6s) equal to your proficiency bonus. You expend
a Stratagem die after using a Stratagem. You regain all
Stratagem Dice after you finish a short or long rest.
Your die increases at 10th level to d8 and 18th level to
d10.
64 Undying Corruption: Classes
 Saving Throws: Some of your stratagems require mount also gains a new ability:
your target to make a saving throw to resist the • Winged Companion: When the Winged
strategem’s effects. The saving throw DC is calculated Companion uses its Thousand Ri Rush
as follows: trait, you can make your next attack roll with
Stratagem save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus + Advantage.
your Charisma modifier • Behemoth-Kin: On a Charge, if the target
Expertise is knocked prone, they’re also pushed 10 ft.
away from the Behemoth-kin.
At 3rd Level, choose two of your skill Proficiencies.
Your Proficiency Bonus is doubled for any ability check • Sacred Serpent: While a creature is
you make that uses either of the chosen Proficiencies. restrained by the Sacred Serpent’s Constrict
action, they cannot take any Reactions.
At 10th level, you can choose another two skill
Proficiencies to gain this benefit. Valiant Resistance
Military Art Beginning at 9th level, if your mount fails a saving
throw, you can choose to have it succeed instead.
At 3rd Level, you choose a Military Art that forms
the foundation of your strategies, such as the Art of the You can use this feature twice between long rests
General. Your choice grants you features at 3rd Level starting at 13th level and three times between long rests
and again at 6th, 11th, and 15th levels. starting at 17th level.

Ability Score Improvement Battle Tested Mount

When you reach 4th Level, and again at 8th, 12th, Beginning at 14th level, your mount has grown
16th, and 19th level, you can increase one ability score more experienced fighting alongside you. They gain the
of your choice by 2, or you can increase two Ability following benefits:
Scores of your choice by 1. As normal, you can’t • The damage die of your mount’s melee
increase an ability score above 20 using this feature. weapon attacks as shown on their statblock
is increased by two steps (for example: d6’s
Extra Attack become d10’s and d8’s become d12’s).
Beginning at 5th level, you can attack twice, instead • Your mount gains a +1 bonus to both their
of once, whenever you take the Attack action on your attack rolls and damage rolls.
turn.
Legendary Mount
Discerning Eye
At 18th level, your shared exploits pushed your
At 6th level, your depth of experience has given mount to its fullest potential, evolving it and awakening
you the ability to read other people’s strengths and new abilities.
weaknesses. Select a creature that you can see within 60
ft of you. If you spend a minute observing them, you • Winged Companion: Once you use this
learn whether their Hit Points are higher than yours, feature, you can’t do so again until you finish
their Damage Resistances and Vulnerabilities, and their a long rest. The Winged Companion taps into
Saving Throw proficiencies. its Celestial nature and emanates life energy.
Once per long rest, as an action, the Winged
In combat, you can use this feature as a bonus Companion spreads its wings and emanates
action. a healing light. Each creature of your choice
Advanced Mount within 30 feet of the Winged Companion
regains Hit Points equal to 3d8 + your
Beginning at 7th level, your mount’s attacks count Charisma modifier. This feature has no effect
as magical for the purpose of overcoming resistance on undead or constructs.
and immunity to nonmagical attacks and damage. Your

Undying Corruption: Classes 65

 • Behemoth-Kin: The Behemoth-Kin Bonus Proficiencies
rampages in a frenzy. Once per long rest, the
At 3rd level, you gain proficiency with Heavy
Behemoth-Kin can move up to its move speed
Armor.
through spaces occupied by hostile creatures
without it or its rider triggering Opportunity Mobile Fortress
Attacks and through enemy spaces. Any
Starting at 3rd level, whenever you use a Stratagem,
creature it moves through must make a
you gain temporary Hit Points equal to twice your
Dexterity saving throw against DC (8 + your
Tactician level + your Charisma modifier. In addition,
Charisma modifier + Proficiency Bonus). A
whenever an ally adjacent to you is hit with an attack or
creature takes 10d6 bludgeoning damage and
fails their saving throw against a spell targeting them,
fails prone on a failed save or half as much on
you can take the damage directed at them instead.
a successful one.
Apply your Resistances and Vulnerabilities to the
• Sacred Serpent: The Sacred Serpent ascends
damage taken.
and takes on aspects of a true Dragon. Once
per long rest, when Sacred Serpent uses its Up Close and Personal
breath weapon, its damage increases to 10d6 At 6th level, no matter how many scars you and
acid damage and its range increases to a 30 your trusted mount suffer, the two of you still prefer
ft. cone. Alternatively, each creature in a 30 fighting enemies up close and personal. As a Reaction,
ft. cone on a failed DC (8 + your Charisma if your trusted mount successfully hits a creature with
modifier + Proficiency Bonus) Constitution a weapon attack, you can make an unarmed strike or
saving throw, each creature in the area of its weapon attack against the target. On a hit, the target
breath weapon can’t use reactions, has their must make a Constitution saving throw against your
speed halved, and can’t make more than one stratagem DC. On a failure, they are Stunned until the
attack on its turn. In addition, the creature end of your next turn.
can use either an action or a bonus action on
its turn, but not both. These effects last for Battle Command
1 minute. The creature can repeat the saving At 11th level, you’ve become adept at issuing battle
throw at the end of each of its turns, ending commands under intense pressure. You can use one of
the effect on itself with a successful save. your attacks when you take the Attack action to use a
Master Strategist Stratagem.
At 20th level, your sharpened instincts ensure Counter-Offensive
that you will never be caught at a disadvantage. At At 14th level, you use the momentum from
the beginning of combat after each creature rolls for shielding your ally and launch a counterattack. If
initiative, even if it isn’t your turn, you can use one you’ve taken damage meant for your ally, you can use a
of your Stratagems. You do not expend a use of your Reaction to move up to your movement speed toward
Stratagem dice for this. the attacker and make a weapon attack against them.
On a hit, add half of your levels in Tactician (rounded
ART OF THE GENERAL down) to your damage roll.
Tacticians that follow the Art of the General are
warriors that charge into battle alongside or even ART OF THE HWARANG
ahead of their soldiers. They hone both body and Tacticians who adhere to the Art of the Hwarang
mind equally and ensure they can enact their tactics are sensitive to the tremendous toll of lives taken
personally. While Generals take the fight to their in conflict. Their studies in strategies and martial
opponents directly, they’re not suicidal; they prioritize disciplines have been tempered with a mortal element
the survival of those who have entrusted their lives to that they channel into their poetry.
them.

66 Undying Corruption: Classes

 Art of the Hwarang Spellcasting Spell Slots Per Level

Tactician Level Cantrips Known Spells Known 1st 2nd 3rd 4th

3rd 2 3 2

4th 2 4 3

5th 2 4 3

6th 2 4 3

7th 2 5 4 2

8th 2 6 4 2

9th 2 6 4 2

10th 3 7 4 3

11th 3 8 4 3

12th 3 8 4 3

13th 3 9 4 3 2

14th 3 10 4 3 2

15th 3 10 4 3 2

16th 3 11 4 3 3

17th 3 11 4 3 3

18th 3 11 4 3 3

19th 3 12 4 3 3 1

20th 3 13 4 3 3 1

Undying Corruption: Classes 67

 Spellcasting Spell save DC = 8 + your proficiency bonus + your
Charisma modifier
When you reach 3rd level, your appreciation for life
and the arts awaken your ability to cast spells. Spell attack modifier = your proficiency bonus +
your Charisma modifier.
Cantrips
You learn two cantrips of your choice from the
Inspiring Stratagem
Bard spell list. You learn another Bard cantrip of your Starting at 3rd level, you gain Deescalate,
choosing at 10th level. Disinformation, or Sow Panic as one of your
Stratagems. You can make a Charisma (Performance)
Spell Slots check in place of any Charisma check as part of your
The Hwarang Spellcasting table shows how many Stratagem effect.
spell slots you have to cast your spells of 1st level and In addition, whenever you use a Stratagem, you can
higher. To cast one of these spells, you must expend target a creature that can see or hear you within 60 ft of
a slot of the spell’s level or higher. You regain all you. That creature gains temporary Hit Points equal to
expended spell slots when you finish a long rest. your Stratagem dice + your Charisma modifier. While
For example, if you know the 1st-level spell Heroism the creature has temporary Hit Points in this way, they
and have a 1st-level and a 2nd-level spell slot available, also gain advantage on saving throws against being
you can cast Heroism using either slot. Frightened.

Spells Known of 1st Level and Higher Spellsong Crescendo

You know three 1st-level Bard spells of your choice. At 6th level, you’ve learned to enhance the power
in your forces’ spellcasting. When you or an ally that
The Spells Known column of the Hwarang
see or can hear you within 60 feet of you casts a spell
Spellcasting table shows when you learn more Bard
using at least a 1st level spell slot that restores hit points
spells of 1st level or higher. Each of these spells must be
of or deals damage to creatures, you can as a reaction
of a level for which you have spell slots. Select spells that
roll your Stratagem die and add the number rolled to
are thematically appropriate for your artistic tastes. For
the result of your damage dice or number of hit points
instance, when you reach 7th level in this class, you can
restored. You must have a Stratagem die available to use
learn one new spell of 1st or 2nd level.
this feature, but you do not expend your die.
The spells you learn at 8th, 14th, and 20th level can
be any spell of your choice from any class for which you Subliminal Gambit
have spell slots. At 11th level, you weave your orders into your
Whenever you gain a level in this class, you can magic. After casting a cantrip, you may use a Stratagem
replace one of the Bard spells you know with another that normally requires an Action as a bonus action.
spell of your choice from the Bard spell list. The new
spell must be of a level for which you have spell slots. Reverberating Legacy
At 14th level, your spells leave behind reverberations
Spellcasting Ability in the air around you that subconsciously propels its
Charisma is your spellcasting ability for your Bard listeners to their maximum potential. After using your
spells, since your poetic soul is the source of your action to cast a spell, an aura that lasts until the end of
spellcasting ability. You use your Charisma whenever a your next turn extends out from you in a 30 ft radius.
spell refers to your spellcasting ability. In addition, you While in this aura, the effects of being Charmed,
use your Charisma modifier when setting the saving Frightened, Incapacitated, Paralyzed, and Stunned are
throw DC for a Bard spell you cast and when making suppressed, but not removed. All creatures in the aura
an attack roll with one. gain Advantage on their next saving throw to end these
effects.

68 Undying Corruption: Classes

ART OF THE SANCHEOK an encounter against, you and your mount gain a +1
bonus to damage rolls and skill checks against them.
Through your occultic research and your experience
fighting or commiserating with wild creatures, you’ve In addition, when you use your False Reincarnation
learned to stimulate your own trusted mount’s feature to copy another creature’s action and grant it
evolution. Other Tacticians consider Sancheoks to be to your mount, you can inscribe it into your bestiary.
eccentric for their obsessive research into the ways and As long as you hold this bestiary, you can use False
habits of monsters. They, however, possess the atypical Reincarnation to grant your mount an action they’ve
minds suited to devise strategies against calamities learned at one point in the past. If you lose this bestiary,
brought by creatures rather than rivaling armies. you lose all records of monsters you’ve encountered in
the past and must spend a long rest crafting another
False Reincarnation one. You can make a backup copy by spending 1 hour
At 3rd level, you stimulate your trusted mount’s and 1 gp for the total challenge rating of each creature
evolution and allow it to gain powers that belong to an inscribed.
observed creature. As a Bonus Action, you can spend 1
Stratagem Die to grant your mount an action belonging
Snap Evolution
to an observable creature 30 ft. from your mount. The At 6th level, if you observe another creature using
creature must have a challenge rating equal to your level an action and your mount possesses an action granted
or lower. to them by False Reincarnation, you can use False
Reincarnation as a Reaction. The previous action you
If you choose to grant your mount a creature’s
granted your mount is replaced by the triggering action.
action in this way, you must have seen it use that trait or
You do not need to spend a Stratagem Die to use False
action. You cannot use this feature to grant your mount
Reincarnation in this way. You can use this feature a
Legendary Actions, Lair Action, any action from the
number of times equal to your proficiency bonus. You
Spellcasting trait, or any action that requires using an
regain all expended uses of it when you finish a long
item (any attack that uses a weapon that is not a part
rest.
of the creature). If your mount gains a melee or ranged
attack from another creature in this way, it can roll False Metamorphosis
using its own attack and damage modifiers.
At 11th level, your mount undergoes a more radical
You must use your Action to command your mount transformation through its reincarnation. When you
to use this copied action. If their action forces a creature use False Reincarnation, you can spend an additional
to make a saving throw, your mount can use your Stratagem Die to grant your mount one of your target’s
Stratagem DC in place of the action’s original DC. traits in addition to its action. You cannot use this
Your mount can retain only one action in this way. feature to grant your mount the Legendary Resistance
If you use this feature while your mount has already trait or any trait that would grant it immunities to
learned another creature’s action, the new action damage or spells. They maintain the trait for the same
replaces the previous one. They retain access to the duration as they’re able to use the action granted by
action for up to 10 minutes. If they lose the action False Reincarnation. Your mount can retain two traits
while the duration of its effect is still ongoing, the or actions granted by False Reincarnation. These traits
action’s effects end automatically. or actions can be from the same creature or from two
different creatures. You must still use a Bonus Action
Sancheok’s Bestiary and spend 1 Stratagem Die to gain the second trait or
Starting at 3rd level, you’ve begun to compile a action.
meticulous record of creatures you’ve encountered in
a bestiary. Your bestiary can be a leather bound book Soul Synthesis
whose cover was crafted from the hide of a game you’ve Starting at 14th level, your mount retains one trait
hunted or a tome inscribed with necromantic and granted to them by False Reincarnation even after False
transmutative runes. While holding this bestiary, if Reincarnation’s duration ends. This trait counts up to
you meet another creature that you saw and survived the maximum number of traits your mount can possess

Undying Corruption: Classes 69

 at a time. During your long rest, you can change this Scapegoat
trait by using another possessed by a creature listed in
As an Action, all hostile creatures within 60 ft
your bestiary.
of you must make a Wisdom saving throw against
your Stratagem save DC. On a failure, they have
STRATAGEMS Disadvantage on attack rolls against all creatures except
Attack Order a willing creature of your choosing for 1 minute,
or until you lose your concentration (as if you were
You command your troops to assault your enemy concentrating on a spell). The creature you chose gains
when they least suspect it. As a Bonus Action, you temporary hit points equal to twice the roll of your
command a willing creature within 100 feet to use their Stratagem die.
Reaction to make one weapon attack against a target.
Your ally gains a bonus to their attack roll equal to your Sow Panic
stratagem die. As a Bonus Action on your turn for 1 As a Reaction, when an enemy that can see or hear
minute, or until you lose your concentration (as if you you misses an attack against a creature within 60 ft
were concentrating on a spell), you can command an of you, make a contested Charisma (Intimidation)
ally to use their Reaction in this way. check against their Wisdom (Insight) check. Add
Deescalate your Stratagem die to your roll. On a failure, they are
Frightened of that creature for 1 minute, or until you
As an Action, you negotiate for an end to conflict. lose your concentration (as if you were concentrating
All creatures that can see or hear you and understand on a spell).
your language that you choose within 60 ft. of you
must make a contested Wisdom (Insight) check against Steady As We Go
your Charisma (Deception or Persuasion) check. If you Your unerring sense of caution lets you protect
or your companions are fighting the creatures, they have yourself and your troops from hidden dangers that
advantage on their roll. Add your Stratagem die to your others would easily miss. As an Action, each creature
roll. On a failure, they are Charmed for 1 minute and you choose within 30 feet (including you) can roll
become indifferent to you and your allies. This ends if your Stratagem die and add the result when making
the target is attacked or harmed by a spell. Intelligence (Investigation) and Wisdom (Perception)
Disinformation checks and has a +5 bonus to Passive Investigation and
Passive Perception for 1 hour, or until you lose your
As an Action, you can attempt to hide your true concentration (as if you were concentrating on a spell).
strength from your enemies. Select up to three creatures
that can hear you and understand your language within Stealth Operation
60 ft of you. Make a contested Charisma (Deception) As an Action, each creature you choose within 30 ft.
check against their Wisdom (Insight). You can add your (including you) can roll Dexterity (Sleight of Hand and
Stratagem die to your check. Each enemy that failed Stealth) checks with Advantage for 1 hour, or until you
must roll their Stratagem die and subtract that number lose your concentration (as if you were concentrating
from their result on an attack roll or saving throw. on a spell). Each creature can roll your Stratagem die
This effect lasts for 1 minute, or until you lose your and add the result to their Initiative checks and can’t be
concentration (as if you were concentrating on a spell). surprised during the duration of this effect.
Formation Step
As an Action, three allies that can see or hear you
within 30 ft from you can use their Reactions to move
up to their movement speed. They gain a bonus to their
Armor Class equal to your Stratagem die until the end
of their movement.

70 Undying Corruption: Classes

All-Out Assault roll your Stratagem die and reduce the damage they
Prerequisites 6th level take by the result as long as they remain adjacent to the
As an Action, you create an opening that leaves an targeted creature for 1 minute, or until you lose your
enemy wide open for attacks. Select a creature within concentration (as if you were concentrating on a spell).
60 ft of you. That target must make a Wisdom saving On subsequent turns of yours before this stratagem
throw against your Stratagem save DC. On a failure, ends, you can use a Bonus Action to remove the effect
for 1 minute, or until you lose your concentration (as from your chosen target and target a different ally for
if you were concentrating on a spell), all creatures that this effect.
successfully hit them with weapon attacks can roll
Emergency Cantrip
your Stratagem die and deal additional damage equal
Prerequisites 9th level, Art of the Hwarang
to the result. On subsequent turns of yours before this
You’ve learned how to speedily cast cantrips to keep
stratagem ends, you can use a Bonus Action to target a
up with the demands of high pressure situations. As a
new creature for this effect.
Bonus Action, you cast a cantrip. You can choose either
Rider’s Rush of the following effects:
Prerequisites 6th level • Roll your Stratagem die and add the result to
As an Action, you command your mount to tap into damage dealt.
its latent potential. Your mount gains an additional
• Roll your Stratagem die and subtract the
action on each of its turns for 1 minute, or until you
result from the saving throw of the targeted
lose your concentration (as if you were concentrating
creature.
on a spell). That action can be used only to take the
Attack (one weapon attac⁠k only), Dash, or Disengage. Monster Slayer’s Advice
When your mount deals damage with its weapon Prerequisites 9th level, Art of the Sancheok
attacks, you can deal additional damage equal to your As a Bonus Action, select a willing creature that can
Stratagem die. see or hear you within 30 ft. of you under the effects
of a condition or magical effect. They can repeat their
Surprise Assault ability check or saving throw, adding your Stratagem die
Prerequisites 6th level
to the result, and on a success, the condition or effect
As a Reaction, when you roll Initiative, each creature
ends.
you choose within 30 ft. (including you) can roll your
Stratagem die and add the result to attack and damage Spellsong Encore
rolls against any creature that hasn’t taken a turn in Prerequisites 15th level, Art of the Hwarang
combat yet. When an ally within 60 ft. casts a spell, as a Reaction,
if the spell was cast at higher level up to 5th level, they
We Never Fall expend a spell slot corresponding to the spell’s original
Prerequisites 6th level
level instead of the higher level spell slot.
Your troops know they can always fall back on your
gambits, and a boost of adrenaline keeps them standing Natural Selection
even when the situation is bleak. As a Reaction, when Prerequisites 15th level, Art of the Sancheok
a creature of your choice within 60 feet is reduced to 0 Your mount learned to exploit their enemies’
Hit Points, they avoid falling Unconscious. Roll your vulnerabilities using their evolved weapons. When
Stratagem die and they regain Hit Points equal to the your mount successfully deals damage against the
result. creature, the creature must make a Constitution saving
throw against your Stratagem DC. On a failure, it loses
Absolute Defense Resistance to the damage type it took damage from or
Prerequisites 9th level, Art of the General
if it didn’t have Resistance to the damage type it took
As an Action, select a willing creature who can see
damage from, they gain Vulnerability to it. This effect
or hear you that is adjacent to at least one ally within
lasts until the end of your next turn or until it first takes
60 ft from you. When targets take damage, they can
damage from that damage type.

Undying Corruption: Classes 71

 United Stand
Prerequisites 15th level, Art of the General
As a Bonus Action, you enter a defensive stance
and gain a bonus of +5 to AC
and have Advantage on saving
throws for 1 minute, or until
you lose your concentration
(as if you were concentrating
on a spell). If targeted by an
attack, creatures of your
choice within 30 ft. of you
(including yourself) can use
their Reaction to roll your
Stratagem die and add the result
as a bonus to their AC including
against the triggering attack

Mandate of Heaven
Prerequisites 18th level
Your gambits raise your
ranks to the level of legend at
the expense of personal glory.
As an Action, at the start of your
turn, you command a willing creature
within 100 feet to take an additional turn.
Your target also gains temporary
hit points equal to the result
of your remaining stratagem
dice. You only spend one
stratagem die when using this
stratagem. You can’t use this
stratagem after you move and
you become Incapacitated until
the start of your next turn. You
can’t use this stratagem on a
creature that is surprised.

Rider’s Onslaught
Prerequisites 18th level
Your trusted mount
surpasses all limitations. As
a Bonus Action, your trusted
mount regains another use of its
legendary mount feature. Your trusted mount also
gains temporary hit points equal to the result of
your remaining stratagem dice. You only spend one
stratagem die when using this stratagem.

72 Undying Corruption: Classes

Weapons opponents within 5 feet of you. Creatures who move
from an area you can attack with this weapon to within
Many traditional weapons are similar enough to
5 feet of you provoke attacks of opportunity.
common weapons that those statistics will suit them – a
bonguk geom, hwandudaedo, and unggeom can all be Kee chang. If four or more allied creatures within
adequately represented with the longsword statistics. a 20 foot radius wield a kee chang, all allied creatures
For GMs willing to add complexity in order to capture within 20 feet of any of those creatures gain advantage
the unique flavor of Korean weapons, use the following on any checks to deceive, confuse, or intimidate an
table. opponent while in combat.

SPECIAL WEAPONS Nangseon. As a Reaction, you may inflict 1d4

piercing damage on any creature that moves to within
Weapons with special rules are described here.
5 feet of you. This damage is increased by the magical
Fighting Fan. If you hit a creature that is bonus of the weapon, if any, but not by Strength.
surprised or hasn’t taken their turn yet with this
Woldo. You have disadvantage when you use a
weapon, you deal an additional 1d4 slashing damage.
woldo to attack a target within 5 feet of you.
Jukjangchang. You have an additional 5 feet
of reach while using this weapon, but cannot attack

Name Cost Damage Weight Properties

Martial Melee Weapons
Bonguk 15 gp 1d8 slashing 3 lb Versatile (1d10)
geom*
Dangpa* 5 gp 1d6 piercing 4 lb. Thrown (range 20/60), versatile (1d8)
Fighting Fan 3 gp 1d4 slashing - Finesse, light, special
Jangchang 5 gp 1d10 piercing 10 lb Heavy, reach, two-handed
Jukjangchang 8 gp 1d8 piercing 12 lb Heavy, reach, two-handed, special
Kee chang 5 gp 1d8 piercing 10 lb Heavy, reach, two-handed, special
Nangseon 15 gp 1d8 piercing 15 lb Heavy, reach, two-handed, special
Pyeongon 15 gp 1d6 bludgeoning 15 lb Heavy, reach, two-handed
Unggeom 15 gp 1d6 slashing 3 lb Light, versatile (1d8)
Woldo 10 gp 1d12 slashing 6 lb Heavy, reach, two-handed, special
Martial Ranged Weapons
Gakgung 30 gp 1d6 piercing 2 lb Ammunition (range 100/600), two-
handed
Arcane N/A 1d12 piercing + 10 lb Ammunition (range 50/450), loading
Singijeon 1d12 fire
Ammunition
Singijeon 10 gp - 1 lb -
rocket (5)

Undying Corruption | Weapons 73

 Spells make a Dexterity saving throw. On a failed save, they
take 4d8 radiant damage or half as much on a successful
Awaken Alter Ego one.
5th level enchantment (Sorcerer, Warlock) At Higher Levels. When you cast this spell using a
Casting Time: 1 hour spell slot of 7th level or higher, the damage increases for
Range: A willing creature each of its effects by 1d8 for each slot level above 6th.
Components: V S M (Rare oils and incense worth at
least 500 gp, which the spell consumes) Village of the Spirits
Duration: Instantaneous 7th level evocation (Bard, Druid)
You awaken a dormant personality or aspect within Casting Time: 1 hour
yourself or a willing creature. The target remembers Range: 10 ft.
everything that happened over the course of their life, Target: A tiny stone or wooden replica of a jangseung
but also remembers parts of their past lives and their Components: V, S, M (a Tiny stone or wooden
true memories if altered by the Modify Memory spell. replica of a jangseung)
In addition, the spell alters the mind of the creature Duration: 24 hours
and draws memories and experiences carved deep into You perform an elaborate ritual to raise a village by
the recesses of their soul. The creature can reselect their invoking the name of a guardian spirit. You summon
background, class, and proficiencies and rebuild their the spirit to occupy the stone or wooden vessel which
character up until their current character level. In the grows into a Jangseung, a 35-foot tall stone or wooden
process, they can reassign their current ability scores vessel that you’ve prepared to protect an area outdoors
and ability modifiers to different abilities to suit their or underground. The area spans out to a 100-foot
new build. radius centered on the jangseung, protected by a
translucent, spherical barrier. Creatures and objects
Cosmic Rift that you designate at any time the spell is active can
6th level conjuration (Druid, Sorcerer, Warlock, move through the barrier freely, but all other creatures
Wizard) and objects are barred from passing through them.
Casting Time: 1 action Spells and other magical effects can’t extend through
Range: 100 ft. (20 ft. cube) the dome or be cast through it, but a Disintegrate spell
Target: A point of your choice within range destroys the barrier.
Components: V, S
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute The spell fails if the radius includes an area under the
hallow spell or an ongoing Cleric or Druid spell that
You tear open a rift into space shimmering with places an area under the protection of holy (or unholy)
cosmic energies centered on a point you choose within or spiritual power. It also ends early if the jangseung at
range. The dark rift fills a 20-foot cube from that the center of the village is destroyed. The Jangseung has
point for the duration. A creature with darkvision AC 15 and 150 hit points and is immune to poison and
can’t see through the darkness and nonmagical light psychic damage. It is warded by Sanctuary using your
can’t illuminate it. Each creature that first enters the spell DC.
cube or that ends its turn there must succeed on a
Charisma saving throw or be banished into the void Casting the spell targeting the Jangseung again
of space. While there, the target is incapacitated and, if extends the spell’s duration an additional 24 hours. You
they require air to breathe, begins choking. The target can create a permanent village by casting this spell in the
remains there until they repeat their saving throw at same location every day for one year.
the end of their turns and succeed or the spell ends. In The entire warded area radiates magic. The affected
either case, the target reappears in the space it left or in area is subject to the following effects:
the nearest unoccupied space if that space is occupied. Contact the Spirits. The jangseung serves as
Until the spell ends, you can use a bonus action on an intermediary between the material plane and the
each of your turns to pull a star from the rift and fire it spiritual realm. Once per hour, a creature can ask
at a foe within 60 feet from the center. The target must the jangseung one question. The DM answers each

74 Undying Corruption | Spells

question with one word, such as “yes,” “no,” “maybe,” point must make a Dexterity saving throw.
“never,” “irrelevant,” or “unclear” (if the entity doesn’t A creature takes 4d10 lightning damage on
know the answer to the question). If a one-word answer a failed save, or half as much damage on a
would be misleading, the DM might instead offer a successful one.
short phrase as an answer.
Divine Descent
Cozy Hospitality. Six 10-foot-radius clay huts rise 9th level conjuration (Cleric, Warlock)
from the ground, surrounding the jangseung. Each hut Casting Time: 1 action
can comfortably fit up to nine creatures of Medium Range: Self
size or smaller. Each hut is stocked with 45 pounds of Components: V, S, M (a meal offering to your deity
bland, but nourishing food and 30 gallons of water. worth 300 gp that this spell consumes)
You make all decisions about the huts’ appearance Duration: 1 minute
with one door granting access to the interior and as
many windows as you wish. The atmosphere inside the You invite an aspect of your deity to descend and
space is comfortable and dry, regardless of the weather inhabit your body through which to perform miracles.
outside. You gain 60 temporary hit points and you have
advantage on saving throws against spells and other
If a character spends one or more Hit Dice during magical effects. While your body is inhabited by your
a short rest while inside a hut, instead of rolling, the god, creatures roll with Disadvantage on saving throws
player can instead use the highest number possible against your spells. You make spell attack rolls when you
for each die. For example, instead of restoring 2d8 hit cast a spell from the Cleric spell list with Advantage.
points to a creature, you restore 16. When you normally roll one or more dice to deal
Protection of the Spirits. The Jangseung and damage with a spell, you instead use the highest number
all designated creatures benefit from the effects of a possible for each die. For example, instead of dealing
constant Stoneskin spell while inside the village. Five 2d6 damage to a creature, you deal 12. This spell ends
Terra-Cotta Soldiers rise from the ground and patrol early if you lose all your temporary hit points.
the village. They drive off intruders or those attacking
the village or its residents. When the spell ends, the Eye of the Moon
magic animating them disappears, and the trees take 7th level illusion (Druid, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard)
root again if possible. Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Self (30-foot cone)
Additional Spell Effect. You can place your choice
Target: Each creature in a 360-foot cone
of one of the following magical effects within the
Components: V, S
warded area: Duration: 10 minutes
• After forming, the village levitates up to You form an illusory simulacrum of the moon which
20 feet in the air with the barrier extending enervates those who look upon it. Each creature in a 30-
beneath the dome to form a flat surface that foot cone that can see you must succeed on a Wisdom
appears like earth, holding up the village. saving throw. On a failed save, they take 6d10 radiant
When the spell ends, all creatures in the damage and fall unconscious, asleep. A sleeper remains
village float gently to the ground if it is still unconscious until the spell ends, they take damage, or
aloft. someone spends an action to shake or slap them awake.
• The village barrier masks the area in a Undead and creatures immune to being charmed
Hallucinatory Terrain until a creature cannot be put to sleep, but can still take damage.
succeeds on an Intelligence (Investigation) On a successful save, a target only takes half damage.
check against your spell DC. If you are outdoors under clear skies, the power of your
• A gray cloud appears over the village. As an illusion strengthens and the spell’s damage increases by
action on each of your turns, the cloud 1d10.
darkens and you can call a lightning bolt to
target any point on the ground within the
village. Each creature within 5 feet of that
Undying Corruption | Spells 75
 At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a When you cast this spell, the target teleports from your
spell slot of 8th level or higher, roll an additional 1d10 hand or hands to the hand or hands of the target. On
for each slot level above 7th. subsequent turns, you or the target can teleport that or
any other object held in one or both hands to the hand
Grasping Barrier or hands of the other person as a Bonus Action.
4th level abjuration (Druid, Paladin, Sorcerer, Warlock,
The spell immediately ends, and any teleport in
Wizard)
process fails, if: any two people affected by the spell are
Casting Time: 1 action
more than 60 feet apart; the person receiving the object
Range: Self (15-foot radius)
does not have enough hands free to hold the object
Target: Self (15-foot radius)
being sent; any person attempts to teleport an item
Components: V S
weighing more than 10 pounds; or the spell is cast again
Duration: Concentration, up to 10 minutes
on any affected person. You can also dismiss the spell as
You create a magic circle that extends out to a 15- an action.
foot radius, 25-foot tall cylinder, remaining centered
around you. The circle responds to hostile creatures At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using
and objects by creating shimmering tendrils that pull a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, you can target one
objects and creatures approaching you to the ground. additional creature for each slot level above 1st. Any
When you cast this spell, you can designate any number affected creature can teleport an item to any other
of creatures you can see to be unaffected by it. affected creature.

When the circle appears, each creature within its Malicious Matrix
area must make a Strength saving throw or take 5d6 2nd level enchantment (Bard, Cleric, Paladin, Warlock)
force damage, drop to the ground and become Prone Casting Time: 1 action
and Restrained for the spell’s duration. A creature Range: 100 feet
must make a Strength saving throw when it enters the Components: V, S
circle for the first time on a turn or ends its turn there. Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
A creature restrained by the circle can use its action to You amplify a creature’s negative emotions to lash
make a Strength check against your spell save DC. If it out at an ally when they strike someone they are hostile
succeeds, it is no longer restrained. The circle is difficult to. The target must make a Wisdom saving throw.
terrain. During the spell’s duration, each time the target deals
Creatures making ranged attacks roll with damage to an enemy, a friendly creature within 100 feet
disadvantage against targets within the cylinder. of them takes 2d8 psychic damage.
At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a If there is more than one creature that is friendly to
spell slot of 4th level or higher, the damage increases by the target within range, you choose which one takes the
1d6 for each slot level above 4th. damage. At the DM’s discretion, the spell may fail to
do damage if the target does not consider the creature
Instant Delivery you choose to be a friend or ally, or if the target does
1st level conjuration (ritual) (Bard, Ranger, Sorcerer, not attack an object or creature towards which it has
Warlock, Wizard) meaningful antagonism. If there is no creature that the
Casting Time: 1 action target considers an ally within range, the target takes the
Range: 30 feet damage.
Components: V, S, M (a piece of red silk string)
At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a
Duration: 1 hour
spell slot of 3rd level or higher, the damage increases by
You create a mystical bond between yourself and
1d8 slot level above 2nd.
a willing creature to share whatever you hold at a
moment’s notice. As part of the somatic components of
this spell, you must be holding an item in one or both
hands. This does not interfere with casting the spell.

76 Undying Corruption | Spells

Rolling Ja’i Soul Decree
5th level transmutation (Druid, Ranger, Sorcerer, 3rd level necromancy (Cleric, Paladin, Warlock,
Wizard) Wizard)
Casting Time: 1 action Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 80 feet Range: 30 feet
Target: An unoccupied space within range Components: V S M (a doll or effigy of your enemy)
Components: V, S Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute You beseech a spirit to possess the body of a creature
You transmute from the ground beneath you a within range and partially wrest control. The target
10-foot diameter rudimentary stone construct you’ve must succeed on a Charisma saving throw or be
breathed life into in an unoccupied space of your choice possessed by the spirit. While the target is possessed,
within range. The Ja’i lasts for the duration. As a Bonus you can use a Bonus Action to speak a one-word
Action, you can move the Ja’i up to 50 feet. The Ja’i’s command to the target which they must follow. Because
movement is affected by difficult terrain and treats the spirit understands your language, your commands
barriers up to 5 feet tall and pits up to 10 feet wide as affect the target even if they don’t understand you.
difficult terrain. They can repeat their saving throws at the end of their
If the Ja’i moves into a space occupied by a creature, turn.
that creature must make a Strength saving throw. On Some typical commands and their effects follow.
a failed save, the target takes 5d8 bludgeoning damage, You might issue a command other than one described
falls prone, and the Ja’i continues its movement. On a here. If you do so, the DM determines how the target
successful save, the target takes only half damage and behaves. If the target can’t follow your command, the
the golem stops moving this turn. spell ends.
The Ja’i emanates an aura of lethargy. Any creature At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using
that starts or ends its turn within 5 feet of the golem a spell slot of 4th level or higher, you can affect one
takes a −2 penalty to AC and Dexterity saving throws additional creature for each slot level above 3rd. The
and can’t use reactions. creatures must be within 30 feet of each other when
The Ja’i is an object that has AC 17 and hit points you target them. When you command the target, other
equal to your hit point maximum. If it drops to 0 hit affected creatures must use their Reaction if available to
points, the spell ends. It has a Strength of 22 (+6) and a follow the command as well.
Dexterity of 9 (-1). The hand doesn’t fill its space.
At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a
spell slot of 6th level or higher, the damage increases by
1d8 for each slot level above 3rd.

Undying Corruption | Spells 77

 Spiritual Proxy
4th level necromancy (Cleric, Paladin, Warlock)
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 60 feet
Components: V S
Duration: 1 round
You summon a spiritual proxy through whom your
grudge against a target within range will be channeled.
You can target a creature ignoring line of sight. A
creature targeted by this spell must make a
Charisma saving throw. On a failed save,
the target’s spiritual proxy manifests in an
unoccupied space adjacent to you. The
proxy resembles a shadowy silhouette of
the target no larger than Medium size.
The proxy shares the target’s game
statistics except its speed is 0 feet and
it does not take any actions. Whenever it
takes any damage, the target takes the same
amount of damage as Necrotic damage. The
target can cast spells as though they were in
the proxy’s space or use the attack action,
but they must use their own senses. The
spell ends if the target or proxy drops to 0
Hit Points.
At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell
using a 5th-level spell slot, the range of the
spell increases to 200 feet. When you cast
this spell using a 6th-level spell slot, you can
target any creature you can perceive through
your senses. When you cast this spell
using a spell slot of 7th level or higher,
you can target any creature you see,
including through magical sensors. The
spell gains a Material component and requires
the target’s body part, lock of hair, bit of nail,
or the like, which the spell consumes.

78 Undying Corruption | Spells

MAGIC IN DANGUK A bard’s devotion awakens their latent power and
allows them to channel magic into their art. Schools
of art in Danguk work to harness this power, but only
genuine inspiration serves as the necessary catalyst to
The land of Danguk is rife with spiritual and natural awaken one’s magical potential.
energies that empower magic of all sources. Much
comes from the celestial Sandalwood Tree holding aloft Cleric: As a land hosting the divine experiment
the Capital. Blessed with godly power, it sustains the of determining whether swaths of mortals can achieve
system of reincarnation in Danguk and the travel of divinity, the gods hold a vested interest in the affairs
souls to and from the lands creates abundant magical of this land. Gods of established pantheons listen for
energy from which all spellcasters at least indirectly prayers of both believers and would-be believers who
draw from. Everyone born in Danguk possesses yearn for new paths in life. The Sandalwood Tree
at least the potential to use magic which can grow bolsters the power of belief, allowing clerics to draw
exponentially through catalysts such as study, faith, power from philosophies and ideals much like paladins.
one’s blood, nature, or an outside force entirely. Household and native gods, through the blessings of
the land, are also powerful enough to grant spells to
While there are exceptions, the following lists ways in
their worshipers much like the gods of the heavens.
which certain spellcasters may discover their spellcasting
potential: Druid: Druids of Danguk often receive
their powers directly from the central source: the
Bard: The life energy that flows from the
Sandalwood Tree. Their powers may take shape in
Sandalwood Tree bolsters the creative force of artistry.
unique ways depending on the environments they

Undying Corruption: Magic in Danguk 79

 dedicated their lives to. Conversely, should their powers village has at least one government-affiliated school. For
come from the divine, it’s rarely ever a single deity like those that seek disciplines of magic these respectable
with a cleric. Druids are gifted with the blessings of all schools cannot teach (such as the necromantic arts
of nature and are recognized by the native gods that devoted to raising the dead, summoning fiends, or
reside in Danguk. enchantments that crush others’ wills), there is a
thriving black market for contraband scrolls and
Paladin: When an individual forges an
spellbooks. They may also find tutors willing to impart
oath, a sacrifice of the self to a greater cause, their knowledge of less than respectable magic.
overwhelming zeal serves as a necessary catalyst for
the divine to grace them. A paladin needn’t discover
their potential in a church or temple, but under any
circumstances that inspire people to take up a
cause.
Sorcerer: Sorcerers are the most
common type of spellcaster in Danguk
though many cannot cast beyond
cantrips and basic spells. As many
Dangukese people are descended
from Hwanung, they awaken to
sorcerous powers gifted to those with
celestial or archfey bloodlines. The
ancestors of other sorcerers may have
encountered any number of entities
native to Danguk like its dragons, fey, and
native gods.
Warlock: Entities concerned
with the results of the gods’
experiment with rebirth work to
subtly influence results
into their favor. They
contact individuals
whose hearts resonate
with their interests and
offer power. Realizing
this inevitability, the
gods of the underworld
sanctioned their
messengers to sign
contracts and enlist
mortals to preserve
the balance of life and
death in Danguk.
Wizard: Though
everyone possesses the spark
of magic, they learn to control and
cultivate it through their studies at
schools devoted to magic. In Danguk, even a small

80 Undying Corruption: Magic in Danguk

CAMPAIGN HOUSE RULES creature reappears in a space adjacent to the target they
had been possessing and must roll Initiative.
Exorcisms: Exorcising spirits typically requires
Through their training as Mudang, PCs gain a an Intelligence (Nature or Religion) check, but PCs
keener connection to the worlds beyond than average can substitute Intelligence with another ability score
adventurers. Even without any spellcasting abilities, this as appropriate. For example, they can use Strength or
connection allows them to commune with or interact Dexterity as part of their ritual to channel spiritual
with spirits, either casting out malicious ones inhabiting power into their bodies to quell the spirits physically,
other people or asking them for favors. To heighten the Wisdom or Charisma to compel the spirits through
experience of playing as shamans, spiritual healers, or their own spiritual power or their innate presence. PCs
spiritual detectives, consider giving your players access will still need proficiency in either Nature or Religion
to these following abilities: to gain a proficiency bonus to their skill check however.
Anti-Possession Techniques: Trained Beseech Spirit Wisp: Trained Mudang can ask
Mudang can use the sheer force of their spiritual lingering spirits in the area for a small favor. They know
presence or through those of the spirit residing in them the Druidcraft or Thaumaturgy cantrip.
and attempt as an Action to sever the connection of Conduct Gut: Mudang that can cast spells can
a ghost or entity from the bodies of people possessed. cast a spell without using a spell slot as a gut, a rite
This requires a Nature or Religion check against DC that beseeches the gods and spirits through offerings,
10 + the CR of the possessing spirit. On a success, the

Undying Corruption: Campaign House Rules 81

 sacrifices, and performances. Casting a spell as a gut For each NPC accompanying the PCs, they gain a
increases the casting time by 2 hours per spell level and use of a single valiant action that they have in their pool
requires a material component cost of 50 gp per spell of valiant actions (to a maximum of 3). For example, if
level in addition to any preexisting material costs. only one NPC is actively accompanying them on their
If a Mudang must prepare their spells during their journey, they can use only one valiant action. Much like
long rest, they can only cast a spell that they’ve prepared legendary actions, PCs can use a valiant action outside
as a gut. of their turn. Any PC can use one valiant action option
at a time and only at the end of another creature’s turn.
Possession Resistance: When possessed, The PCs share this pool and if one of them declares
Mudang retain their sense of self. While their body a valiant action, each PC will lose one use for that
is controlled by a spirit, they are conscious and can round. They regain their spent valiant actions at the
still speak and commune with the entity possessing start of a new round. They can forgo using their valiant
their body. At the end of the possessed target’s turn, actions, and they can’t use them while incapacitated or
the possessing entity must make a Constitution otherwise unable to take actions. If surprised, they can’t
saving throw against DC 10 or half of the Mudang’s use them until after their first turn in the combat.
Intelligence (Nature or Religion) check result,
Certain valiant actions cost more valiant actions to
whichever is higher. On a failure, the possession ends
use. These are more complicated actions that require
and the spirit reappears in an adjacent space to the
additional allies to pull off. While the PCs resolve
Mudang
their encounters, their allied NPCs are usually in the
Read Psychometric Resonance: By touching background, holding off incoming opponents and
an object, Mudangs can read psychic impressions left unable to assist at their fullest capacity. With more allies
on objects by their previous owners. They can detect working together in the background, they’ll have more
from objects any lingering, significant emotional leeway to lend the PCs their support.
resonance attached to them, such as the joy from a
child’s beloved teddy bear, the sorrow from a widower’s SKILL AND TOOL PROFICIENCIES
wedding ring, or the fear from a victim’s murder
In this adventure, you will face challenges that
weapon. If the PCs are looking for specific emotional
pit you against a number of adversaries such as
resonances, they can ignore any other emotions they
undead, aberrations, and fiends. Physical skills such as
detect to find it.
Acrobatics and Athletics will prove useful in escaping
If they find an object with an emotional resonance, environmental challenges and the clutches of foes.
they can spend 1 minute concentrating on the object Thieves’ Tools will come in handy as you disarm traps
to get a vision of the face of the person who imbued set by rivals as you navigate through their lairs. Stealth
the item with the emotion in the first place. If the will become useful at times for avoiding combat and
associated emotion is painfully negative, they might detection by powerful enemies while plotlines will not
take 1d6 psychic damage, as determined by the GM. require Sleight of Hand often.
Spirit Sense: As an action, Mudang can As Mudang, you will be called on to exorcise restless
detect the presence of Undead with the Incorporeal spirits and Akryung or even disarm Haunts, spiritual
Movement trait within 60 ft. of them, but not the influences that harm people in an environment. Doing
location. They can use this feature once per long rest. so will depend on the Nature and Religion skills, both
as you attempt to ward against the supernatural and
Valiant Actions: Over the course of this
to understand their workings. Arcana will see less use,
adventure, PCs will encounter and befriend allies
but will be helpful when you come across obstacles that
who they can recruit to join them in their cause. To
require an understanding of the arcane.
minimize the number of participants in encounters, the
GM can employ a house rule called “Valiant Actions” Medicine will see occasional use as you attempt to
that enable the PCs to control allied NPCs. Each identify physical maladies or piece together grisly events
recruitable NPC’s stat block lists the valiant actions that you stumble across. If you’re low on healing spells, then
the PCs can command them to use. having a Healer’s Kit in addition to stabilize dying allies

82 Undying Corruption: Campaign House Rules

can be a boon. Animal Handling will also not be crucial mages, bards, scholars, and philosophers occupy this
to the plotlines, but can be useful to have in certain social strata.
encounters. Perception, Insight, and Investigation will
Jungin: Highly skilled workers, the middle class.
prove crucial as you attempt to find leads or treasure or
Engineers, jurists, scientists, accountants, and artists
discern the intent of certain NPCs.
occupy this social strata. Their privileges are observed
You will encounter hostile creatures who are for their close proximity to the Yangban who employ
partial toward discussion. As you discern the motives them in governmental and non-governmental positions.
of, for example, an undead creature whose lingering Like the Yangban, they are exempt from taxes. Many in
attachments keep them bound to the world, you can this class can afford to pay tuition for their children to
avoid combat by appealing to them. Persuasion will someday become Yangban.
be critical in these circumstances with Deception and
Intimidation being second. Being proficient with Sangmin: Commoners who make the backbone
Performance will also help settle situations where of Danguk society. Their caste consists of poor workers
certain creatures can be placated with song and dance. such as farmers, fishers, laborers, merchants, and
In Danguk, demonstrations of your skills as an artist craftsmen. The majority of people in Danguk fall under
may help you where mere words fail. this class. As such, they bear the highest burden of the
country’s taxes.
Though you will not use it frequently, having
proficiency with water vehicles will serve you well as Cheonmin: The vulgar commoners that occupy
you journey through water or airborne areas. the lowest social strata. This caste is hereditary and all
people deemed as social outcasts are punished with this
LANGUAGES designation. They include Mudang, debtors, warlocks
aligned with evil spirits, butchers, sex workers, and
Most NPCs you meet in the course of this adventure public performers. It’s rare for Cheonmin to overcome
will speak Common with the Dangukese dialect. Due the burden of their caste, but few exceptions exist.
to the country’s strong Dwarven population, Dwarvish
is the second most popular language. With the land of • Baekjeong: The untouchables, this is the
Danguk being shared with nature spirits and dragons, designation of Cheonmin that are ostracized
adventurers often learn Draconic and either Sylvan or from society.
Primordial (with Sylvan being more popular). • Nobi: Serfs tied to the land of Yangban, they
are paid a pittance and given land in exchange
SOCIETY for grueling physical labor.
Modern Danguk society is rigidly hierarchical,
following the ideals that bonds shared by fellow FACTIONS
members of society are represented through the clear, Powerbrokers within Danguk seek to shape society
mutual responsibilities they follow for one and that this according to their ideologies.
is what builds a strong country. For better or worse,
Agency of Sage Arts: Of the ministries serving
these meritocratic ideals are crystallized in the country’s
the king of Danguk in Asadal, the Ministry of Sage Arts
class system. The four classes in Dangukese society are:
is both the most secretive and prestigious. King Taejo
Yangban: The country’s ruling class, occupied and Archmage Oh Muwon co-founded the agency to
by the literati and highest order of civil servants. They gather the country’s most brilliant minds to protect
are the landed and unlanded elites, who after passing and research the country’s Artifacts. With the covenant
the civil service exams, are gifted prestige and certain between Danguk and Gucheon having been broken
privileges; such as being exempt from taxes. Many can several times, the Agency of Sage Arts also exists as a
also afford to cheat on said exams. Though the position, self-preservative body, researching Danguk’s cycle of
office, and privilege they occupy are hereditary, every souls. Among other speculations, it’s rumored that
failure of the family’s third generation to pass the Archmage Oh discovered a method for immortality
exams results in relinquishing their titles. Well-educated that exploits Danguk’s system of reincarnation despite

Undying Corruption: Campaign House Rules 83

 reports of her having passed away. Members of the bodies in Danguk, the Office of Royal Inspectors
agency, particularly paladins who have taken the Oath remains the deadliest with nearly half of its inspectors
of Mystics, possess extrajudicial privileges cracking being killed in duty before the end of their service.
down against abuses of magic.
Jeguk Merchantry (JM Group): The
The Black Bear Clan: Founded by Princess wealthiest trade organization based in the city of
Bari, the Black Bear Clan is an organization of exorcists Gungnae, Jeguk Merchantry seeks to revolutionize
and Mudang that work to maintain harmony between the production and distribution of magical items for
mortals and the extraplanar entities they share their common use. Founded during the Age of Illumination,
land with. As the oldest organization in Danguk, most the clans that make up the founding body of Jeguk
of the country’s Mudang serve the public among its Merchantry boast of their ancestors supporting King
membership. Seniority determines leadership positions Taejo’s revolt against Gwangmoon at the end of
with venerable elders, referred to on a familial basis Goryeo. They were rewarded with positions in the
such as Grandmother, Mother, Grandfather, or Father, Hall of Worthies as the country’s foremost inventors,
as wisdom and experience become treasured traits in gaining crafting know-how which they passed on
guiding new generations. Regardless, the Black Bear to the first founders of the JM Group. After JM
Clan claims to operate on a non-hierarchical basis Group’s formation, they’ve worked directly with the
where regular members, brother and sister Mudang, government in Asadal on infrastructure projects such
serve in locales across Danguk, directly aiding people as commissioning cheap magical tools and security. The
divine the future, heal spiritual illnesses, and banish group’s current chairwoman is Hae Iseul, a Dwarf who
malicious wraiths. During the Goryeo Dynasty, they secretly funds pirate groups to smuggle arcane secrets or
did not take arms against the Luminists’ mortal enemy, to protect her interests abroad.
the tyrant Yongwang Gwangmoon, holding steadfast to
Order of the Five Grains: The largest peasant
their policy of political neutrality as spiritual healers. In
association in Danguk, members of the order consist
the Age of Illumination, Luminists look down on the
of farmers, druids, and nature clerics of Jacheongbi.
Black Bear Clan as a vestige of the past that abdicated
They’ve married the causes of social justice and food
its duty to the nation, and have since labeled them as
sovereignty, protesting against the system of land
pariahs.
ownership that Nobis are bonded to. The order
Bureau of Royal Inspectors: The Office of operates largely in rural areas, but more citizens without
Royal Inspectors answers to the king directly. Founded magical aptitude united under its banner as a unified
by King Taejo, the office serves as a formal check against voice in politics against the ruling Yangbans. For this,
royal abuses of power and against officials and ministers. they’re vilified as anti-state malcontents. Besides their
Since foundation, they are tasked with three duties: social activism, the order serves as Danguk’s largest
first, they investigate misconduct by the Yangban and adventuring guild, organizing able-bodied volunteers to
write regular reports to the king of public grievances. address local issues.
If they should discover misconduct during their covert
Polaris’s Beacon Party: A political faction in
investigations, they have the authority to arrest the
Asadal formed by new generations of Yangban within
guilty parties, even temporarily stripping a Yangban of
the king’s court banded together, the Yangban that
their titles and privileges to do so. Second, the office
make up the Beacon Party consist mostly of ascended
researches Luminist philosophy and Danguk and world
Chungin and some Sangmin. Due to their backgrounds
history, serving as official scholars to educate the king in
as mostly first generation spellcasters, the party waves
daily lessons. Those tasked with this specific duty also
the banner of reform, working to deemphasize the role
operate the public press, recording and disseminating
of magical aptitude in societal participation and grant
the king’s discussions and lessons. Third, should the
more rights to non-casters. To that end, they support
cries of the people quake and deafen the nation, the
granting the king more power to react promptly to the
Office of Royal Inspectors possesses the legal right to
needs of people. Though politically weaker than the
remove the king from his throne. Out of all government

84 Undying Corruption: Campaign House Rules

Covenant Party, many members within the Beacon
Party have close ties to wealthy merchants, funding
the foundation of schools partial to their more flexible
Luminist ideals.
Samjok-O’s Covenant Party: The oldest
political faction in Asadal, they claim legitimacy as
students and successors of Archmage Oh Muwon
and inheritors of King Taejo’s command to govern
and wield magic virtuously. Danguk’s oldest Yangban
clans claim membership in the Covenant Party. They
spearheaded implementing the modern day caste
system, believing that the right of governance should
be dependent on magical aptitude. However, they take
to heart Archmage Oh’s warnings against magic and
power concentrating in the hands of a single entity,
enacting them into policy through aristocratic checks
against the king. The party has ingrained these values
into the curriculums of Danguk’s oldest educational
institutions. In recent years, clans aligned with the
Covenant Party that have grown comfortable in power
practice politics merely as a means to preserve power.
Society of Wailing Souls: The Society’s
origins can be traced back to the Black Bear Clan after
the fall of Goryeo when public perception shifted
against the Mudang. The people began to resent that
same neutrality when the Clan refused to take up arms
against the tyrannical Dragon King Gwangmoon of
Goryeo. For that, they were ostracized and demoted to
the lowest caste of society. Most Mudang maintained
their age-old mission, but others resented being
shunned from an ungrateful, new world. Those
Mudang formed the Society of Wailing Souls, a cult
centered around the Emperor of Darkness who they
wish to imbue with their grudge against Danguk. While
some seek to reclaim what they’ve lost in the ashes of
the Age of Illumination, others desire a merciful end to
the world as a failed project of the gods. They use curses
to make puppets of people and their leadership has
discovered secrets to extend their lives through undeath
or other unnatural means.

Undying Corruption: Campaign House Rules 85

 Asadal, the City of the Gods Its King resided in a palace that surrounded the
Sandalwood Tree and he ruled with absolute power.
While he took spiritual advice by the priestly class who
acted as intermediaries between him and his people, his
The capital city of Danguk, Asadal, is located
decisions were considered absolute.
directly at the center of the nation. Called the City of
the Gods by Hwanung when he first descended onto The King of Danguk is considered to possess the
the material world, its most notable landmark is the Mandate of Heaven, being of a godly lineage, granting
great Sandalwood Tree at its center, now towering at him numerous authorities. This is why while the King
200 meters into the sky. It’s said that the roots of the has authority to do almost anything, he must heed his
tree travel far throughout the underground of Danguk, court first, and then consult Gucheon to receive their
sometimes even stretching beyond the physical plane approval.
and into the ethereal. There it gathers the energies of Now, with the country’s educated literati and
life, in five corresponding phases, Fire, Earth, Water, scholars taking on titles of nobility as the Yangban
Wood, and Metal. When someone dies and receives a caste, they’ve replaced the animistic priesthood in
proper burial in Danguk, they can enter the cycle of determining the king’s Mandate of Heaven. In the
reincarnation through the Sandalwood Tree’s roots. present, the ideal king is considered not a warrior, but
While the tree survived the test of time, ever growing a sage among sages. The country has since reformed,
over the years, Asadal has changed dramatically in beginning an arcane and technological revolution that
the past several decades. At the start of its history, turned the natural landscape of Asadal into one of the
structures and designs have been minimalistic according most advanced cities in the world. Educated Bards and
to veneration of nature. Various shrines were built Wizards thrive and alchemists and artificers are awarded
by Mudang to commune with spirits and the land. with great prestige.

86 Undying Corruption: Asadal

 Still, in spite of meritocratic reforms, the Yangban channeled toward practical use that benefits the nation.
have also instituted a harsh caste system that punishes These universities rarely receive more than minimum
people of certain backgrounds. The Mudang that once funding from the Agency of Sage Arts and are subject
had great authority are among the lowest caste as well to greater scrutiny by inspectors appointed by the
as butchers, prostitutes, slaves, and serfs. They are council from the Hall of Worthies. Rogue tutors,
subject to discriminatory policies such as being exempt sometimes branded as criminals depending on their
from the civil service exams that enable changing one’s ideals, who do not agree with the Luminist monopoly
position in the country’s class structure. The privilege on quality education also teach poor communities in
of nobles materialized most egregiously as cities hoard regions far from Asadal’s influence.
the country’s technological advancements, leaving the
countryside farther from it deprived. Technology
The courts of Asadal’s monarch are a site of constant As the Sandalwood Tree’s roots stretch into the
feuding between factions of nobles and scholars. five elemental planes, drawing on them for power,
The two largest factions in Asadal currently are the arcanists of Danguk have also discovered the means to
Samjok-O’s Covenant Party and the Polaris’s harness that power. They’ve learned how to generate
Beacon Party. The Beacon Party backs Grand Prince and transfer power through ley lines drawn across the
of Yeongcheon/Yeongcheondaegun, the son of the city, giving rise to arcane vehicles that support public
current Queen, whereas the Covenant Party believe transportation and the powering of constructs and
Grand Prince of Muryeong/Muryeongdaegun still machinery that are tasked with the bulk of the city’s
has claim to the throne despite his mother’s death. labor. In recent years, the JM Group pioneered the mass
Factional feuds in Danguk are serious affairs as when production of household magic items at costs even
one faction gains power over the other, purges typically commoners could afford, improving the general quality
follow. of life in Asadal. These revolutionary breakthroughs
make the city appear as a veritable utopia to those
Education looking from afar. However, these advancements in
The Agency of Sage Arts, through a council of the quality of life in Danguk have largely concentrated
administrators selected by the Hall of Worthies, at the center of the country, with less of these boons
regulates education through a system of funding spreading further out. Those already living within
based on standardization and prestige. Asadal Asadal rarely see the world beyond the safety of their
Royal University stands as Danguk’s most Sandalwood Tree while those that cultivated talent
prestigious research university, requiring all students often move to the city without looking back. Thus,
to demonstrate both exceptional magical talent or political interests have long deprioritized sparing more
understanding of magical theory and moral philosophy resources than necessary to the country’s farthest
that adheres to Luminist thought. Though most corners.
yangban boast of having graduated from the Royal
University, many of the lower castes seek enrollment
as they believe graduating from the university offers
a higher chance of passing the gwageo to ascend into
the yangban caste. Schools outside of Asadal promise
to prepare their students to enroll into the Royal
University for that reason.
While some universities outside of Asadal either
conform to Asadal’s curriculum as their resources allow
or focus on other trades or disciplines besides magic,
others seek to break the mold entirely. Motivated by
philosophies different from Luminism, they do not
always adhere to the rigid belief that magic must be

Undying Corruption: Asadal 87

 Cosmology creating calamities until they were sealed away.
Since then, the gods of Jeoseung and Gucheon
worked together to forge a gate, separating the Dark
Realm from Iseung forever. They established a divine
The Dark Realm (암흑국) edict forbidding planar travel between the two realms
A curious plane that existed long before Gucheon but still, a link persisted and the Dark Realm continued
has. The Dark Realm is a plane of infinite darkness to gather negative karma from Iseung. People full of
where no light can touch. Since the universe has been hatred and despair such as the Dark Mudang pray
created, it has been a section among the lower planes someday for the border between the two realms
that appears to have been beyond the notice of the to shatter so that they can herald the Emperor of
gods. Believing it to be an empty realm, O-do Jeonryun, Darkness, the Dark Realm’s will, to cast the world into
one of the Narakwang of Jeoseung, decided that they oblivion.
would dispose of all the sins gathered and cleansed from Notable Figures:
mortals into the Dark Realm.
• The Emperor of Darkness
The consequences of this decision would only be
felt thousands of years later when it became obvious Gucheon (구천)
that the Dark Realm was not empty at all. The A palace that spans the distance of an entire world,
collected malice and sins of mortals began to form Gucheon is the Realm Above the Heavens where
a consciousness. They gathered into an intangible, gods and Celestials with the strongest connections to
sentient network of thoughts and desires that spread Danguk reside. It is a Lawful Good realm that leans
throughout the Dark Realm until it was molded into more toward Lawful as though it is a paradise, this
something unmistakably humanoid. The first monsters paradise is derived from its functionality. Gucheon,
native to the Dark Realm were drawn to Iseung, meaning “Nine Heavens”, represents the highest state

88 Undying Corruption: Cosmology

of being one can achieve in mortal life: freedoms of From there, the tree delivers these souls to Jeoseung
clarity and against vexations, heat, and doubt. to cleanse them of past sins and memories so that
Hwanin, the ruler of Gucheon, rules his plane they may be reborn totally anew for another attempt
through a bureaucratic system that functions like at divinity. After this process, Jeoseung sends these
near-clockwork. Celestial beings are rewarded through cleansed souls back to the Sandalwood Tree to
systems of promotions. Of the Realms Above the distribute them as new lives entering Iseung. With
Heavens, Gucheon is at the same time the closest in this system of reincarnation in place, the gods’ efforts
proximity to Iseung. The guarantee that all good deeds to fortify mortal souls into sterner stuff through
are justly rewarded relative to the effort put into them is the challenges and temptations of the mortal realm
the foundation of Gucheon. continue.
Ripples and tremors from consequential actions The malevolent gods of the lower planes stayed their
are felt there first. The difference in the passage of hands, recognizing hubris in Hwanin and foolishness in
time between Gucheon and Iseung is also the most Hwanung. Already, the transformation of people who
minimal out of the other planes. Other gods see it as an resist entering the reincarnation process into Akryung
administrative zone responsible for observing the affairs has given birth to a great number of evil creatures.
of mortals. Diametrically opposed to the gods and native to
Notable Figures: Iseung are manifestations of primal rage and furious
instinct, the Dragons. Dangun, the first King and half
• Hwanin god, signed a pact with the Yongwangs in order to
• Hwanung contain the number of Akryung born into Danguk.
• Dangun In exchange for the four dragon kings’ help, Gucheon
would recognize their authority to rule over regions of
Iseung (이승) the seas.
The material world is a realm rife with magic. It is While they rule over their seas, they must promise
the plane at the center of all existences and all other not to interfere with the affairs of the land. Likewise,
planes exist as reflections of it. Yet, Iseung is regarded as the crime of striking down a Yongwang is akin to
the lower realm of existence relative to the heavens, full killing a god by the laws of Gucheon. The dragon kings
of flaws and blemishes. That these contradictions exist, accepted this agreement and became allies to mortals in
describing the same space and individuals who have eliminating Akryung numbers.
achieved divinity and beyond, is a curiosity. These same The names of the Yongwangs are as follows:
qualities have enamored the god Hwanung to descend
and live among the mortals that have captivated him. • Gwangdeok of the East
The affairs of Iseung have been considered neutral • Gwangli of the South
territory by both benevolent and malevolent gods in • Gwangtaek of the West
the upper and lower planes. In order to abide by this • Gwangyeon of the North
neutrality, gods do not interfere “directly” in the affairs
of mortals. However, Hwanung proposed Danguk as The Yongwangs have grown proud of essentially
a land that could give rise to a higher quality of souls being regarded as lesser divinities in the world. Still,
that can be welcomed into the Realms Above the they have their own schemes to expand their power and
Heavens. Hwanin permitted his descent and appointed to influence the affairs of man in ways that cannot be
the ministers in charge of new planes to facilitate easily connected back to them. The dragon kings are
this new country, initiating what became a system of ultimately self-motivated creatures who simply have
reincarnation. This was done through the Sandalwood their reasons to promote order.
Tree that the gods planted at the center of Danguk
altered this. Its roots stretch throughout all of Danguk
and absorb the souls of the departed, shielding them
from the pre-established order.

Undying Corruption: Cosmology 89

 Jeoseung (저승) Jeoseung and the Narakwang perform a critical
function for Hwanin in manufacturing the birth of
Following Hwanung’s descent into Iseung to
perfect souls.
structure the lives of mortals so that their souls can
better reach Gucheon, Hwanin ordered the creation of Over the course of their divine careers, the
Jeoseung, meaning literally “that world”. Jeoseung is a Narakwang have grown more accustomed to
plane that exists between the upper and lower planes recognizing malice within people rather than actual
where all those who were born in Danguk are destined goodness. Having no reference for mortal lives, they
to go after the candles of their lives burn out. made their standards impossibly high. The figure who
would later go on to fill the role of being as a mediator
Originally, Hwanin appointed ten heavenly hosts
between a mortal soul and the Narakwang would be
to manage this realm called the Narakwang, or the Ten
Princess Bari.
Great Kings. The Narakwang judge and administer
punishments to cleanse souls of the malice they’ve Speaking on behalf of these souls and having the
accumulated. By resetting souls in this way, they can be authority to force the adamant Narakwang to listen, she
sent back to Danguk to live out new lives. has put reforms into place
The names of the Narakwang and their duties are as Notable figures:
follows: • The Narakwang
1. Jingwang: Distributes the dead toward their • the Jeoseung Saja, the Kkoktu
places of judgment through the Samdo River
• Notable locations: flower fields of
2. Chogang: Punishes swindlers and the Seocheon
violent.
3. Songje: Punishes liars.
4. Ogwan: Punishes embezzlers and tax
evaders.
5. Yeomra: Chief divinity of the Ten
Narakwang that administers final judgment
on all matters. Punishes those who take
advantage of generosity.
6. Byunsung: Punishes those who committed
crimes of hate
7. Taesan: Punishes necromancers and those
who disrupt the cycle of life
8. Doshi: Supervises over the fiends and
undead allied with the underworld and
punishes the disloyal and unfilial
9. Pyungdeung: Punishes those who have
committed unspeakable crimes
10. O-do Jeonryun: Regulates the cycle of
reincarnation
Yeomra represents the Narakwang and speaks on
their behalf on critical functions. Though they are
members of Gucheon’s Heavenly Host, rumors persist
that each king first originated as Archfiends before
siding with the upper planes.

90 Undying Corruption: Cosmology

DIVINITIES LORDS OF GUCHEON
Chilseongshin (칠성신)
The Chilseongshin are seven gods that each represent
The gods that exist in Danguk can be split into
an individual star of the Seven-Fold Constellation,
multiple categories. Its founders, the masters of the
the Big Dipper. All people have wishes and the work
Heavenly Realm of Gucheon, are the sovereign gods
of the Chilseongshin, as appointed by Hwanin, is to
that oversee the ones brought to life by its people’s faith.
hear them and decide whether to approve. This is due
Almost every aspect in the life of a regular inhabitant of
to their role as governors of mortals’ lifespans with the
Danguk has a god associated with it like the Household
power to override decisions made even by the Judges of
Gods. Both the faith of the people and the spiritually
Jeoseung. The wishes directed towards them typically
powerful land enabled the creation of all these relatively
concern health, especially those of children.
new gods and as times and people’s material conditions
change, more will follow. In recent years, as Danguk developed a practical
form of Astromancy, the number of Chliseongshin
For the purpose of this Player’s Guide, however, the
followers have grown. The Chilseongshin have begun to
following gods listed are the major ones that people
communicate more with Astromancers as they observe
most commonly worship in Danguk. In addition,
the constellation they represent. They play an active
Danguk is rife with smaller, localized gods that are
role imparting new wisdom concerning arcana and
bound to the material plane. If players would like, they
medicine. Both operate together to expand the scope
can create their own household gods (either spirits
of their knowledge to realize the wishes of people as
aligned with their birthplace or ancestors) that they
proxies for their masters. In Gucheon, they’re revered
pray to.
Undying Corruption: Divinities 91
 as sages and well-regarded administrative officials that Gameunjang-agi (가믄장 아기)
observe and govern the stars.
After a beggar couple gave birth to their third
The names of the seven gods are Cheonchu, daughter, Gameunjang-agi, their fortunes turned
Cheonseon, Cheongi, Cheon’gwon, Oakhyung, around for the better. When she credited their
Gaeyang, and Yogwang. newfound success to herself, her parents disowned
Titles: Envoys of the Seven Stars, Root of her and her sisters chased her away, bringing untold
Astromancy, Seven-Fold Constellation misfortune back to their homes. Gameunjang-agi was
Alignment: Lawful Neutral in truth the reincarnation of the Goddess of Karma,
Favored Weapon: Mudang fan Samgong. Though people are purged of their sins prior
Domain(s): Arcana, Knowledge to reincarnation in Jeoseung, Samgong governs the
concept of karma and rewards those who seek to act
Dalnim (달님) better than they have been in their previous lives and
punishes the wicked and ungrateful.
Goddess of the moon, daughter of Hwanin, and
sister of Haemosu, Dalnim was originally a goddess Following this story, her followers worship her in
of the earth and agriculture. Though Dalnim carried her reincarnation as Gameunjang-agi, the young girl
her duties on behalf of Gucheon well, she yearned for that was abandoned by her parents, who persevered
something higher. She coveted the shining pearl in the in the world, rewarding the kindness of strangers. Her
skies, the moon, and desired to capture it for herself. existence is a warning to the prideful of the fickle nature
Her Lunarian followers pass on the legend that Dalnim of fortune and a source of hope for the down-trodden.
taught a collection of terrestrial rabbits how to pound Samgong’s followers keep a watchful eye for this pride
mochi. Producing enough, they tied the dough into a and encourage charity toward those who have nothing.
long rope to the end of an arrow which Dalnim used to Titles: Samgong, Governor of Karma
shoot the moon with. Finding she couldn’t pull it down Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
to the earth, Dalnim instead climbed it along with her Favored Weapon: Dagger
rabbit friends before her servants noticed. Domain(s): Forge
Once crossing the heavens and reaching the moon,
Dalnim cut the dough that connected the moon and Haemosu (해모수)
the earth and established her new home there. Word of God of the sun, son of Hwanin, and brother
Dalnim’s exploits spread, inspiring both adventurers of Dalnim, Haemosu earned glory after slaying a
and the first astromancers to pursue heights beyond monstrous crow that stole the sun. He wields a sword
their mortal limitations. Since then, Hwanin and that shines with the full radiant intensity of the sun’s
the bureaucracy of Gucheon overlooked Dalnim’s rays and rides a chariot pulled by five dragons. When
brazen escape of the earth and allowed her oversight Hwanung did not return to Gucheon, Haemosu
over her moon and its surrounding stars. Since, as the wondered what about the material plane fascinated
Dangukese pantheon came into contact with others, him. He took to riding his chariot over the lands
Dalnim takes the responsibilities of representing of Danguk each day and watched the affairs of its
Gucheon to all deities who live on the moon. insignificant mortals. His excursions bathed the
Titles: Emissary of the Moon, Moonlight Lady, earth with light that germinated crops, earning him
Rebellious Daughter worshipers. Clerics sang his praise and people prayed
Alignment: True Neutral in his name. While Haemosu didn’t seek worship, he
Favored Weapon: Longbow reveled in it and came to enjoy his trek over the little
Domain(s): Light, Trickery, Twilight land. The kingdom of Buyeo formed over his chariot
trail and named him their ruler.
During one outing, Haemosu found Yuhwa, the
goddess of willow trees, bathing with her sisters in
the waters of Ungsim Pond. Haemosu schemed to

92 Undying Corruption: Divinities

wed them by luring and entrapping them inside a to exterminate the wealthy man and his family for
resplendent mansion he conjured. While he entertained revenge. This was the first instance that the Flower of
them, his attendants bolted the doors shut. Yuhwa’s Destruction was brought into the world and since,
sisters caught on and escaped, but Haemosu captured Hallakgungi inherited the position of Igong to make
Yuhwa and took off to wed her. Habaek, Yuhwa’s certain such evil cannot seep into the world again.
father and god of Amnok River, fought Haemosu for Several generations have passed and Hallakgungi, the
this outrage in a duel of divine magic, but lost. Yuhwa first son of Sara Doryeong, took over the position of
soon fled on the day they were to return to the heavens. Igong when he reached the heavens.
Hwanin forbade Haemosu from returning to the
material plane, having lost patience for his interference This is the story that followers of the Igong recreate
with mortals and deities of the natural world. Outside through performance through the Igong Bonpuli to
of his father’s notice, Haemosu sent a ray of sunlight venerate him, keep the dread Flower of Destruction
that bathed Yuhwa and impregnated her with Jumong, from blooming, and request that he does not harass the
the future archer king of Goguryeo. departed children appointed by Hwanin to tend to the
Field of Seocheon. As god of Flowers, the Igong doesn’t
Edicts: build twice for everything you take apart, be have a large following among mortals whose livelihoods
true to your whims are rarely affected by flowers. They mainly consist of
Anathema: stay in one place for too long, shirk druids, fey, gardeners, Halflings, and Elves who give
from your duties their all to the worship of natural beauty. Regardless,
Titles: Sun Herald performing the Igong Bonpuli ritual remains a critical
Alignment: Neutral practice to ensure peace in Seocheon and to stave off the
Favored Weapon: Lance Flower of Destruction’s proliferation into the material
Domain(s): Light, Trickery plane.

Hallakgungi (할락궁이) Because the Igong is an appointed position

potentially bestowed on any worthy soul, it is the title
The Igong, Gardener of the Fields of Seocheon, once that carries divinity, rarely its bearer. Their tasks are to
reincarnated as Hallakgungi, the son of a pauper, Sara tend to the Field and prevent the Flower of Destruction
Doyeong, who was wed to Wongang Ami, the daughter from being released into the world, but the monotony
of a wealthy family. They married and had a child, but typically turns the current Igong surly.
while Wongang Ami was pregnant, Hwanin appointed
Sara Doryeong in a dream as the new Igong. The Titles: Gardener of Paradise, The Igong
journey to the realm of the dead was arduous and the Alignment: Neutral
two separated with Wongang Ami unable to continue Favored Weapon: Sickle
due to her pregnancy. He split apart a comb and told Domain(s): Nature
her to give it to their new son, Hallakgungi, should he
try to find him. Following that, Wongang Ami went Hwanin (환인)
through merciless abuse at the hands of a wealthy man The Supreme Ruler of the Nine Heavenly Realms
whose hospitality she sought. Trapped and enslaved of Gucheon, Hwanin is the highest deity of Danguk
in the man’s house, her son joined her lot after he was and neighboring nations. He plays a more direct role
born. At the age of fifteen, he pressed Wongang Ami to in guiding the lives of mortals by consulting with state
tell him the identity of his father and escaped to seek the leaders and offering his divine protection to those he
Flower Fields of Seocheon. deems worthy. Hwanin has existed long before Danguk
The wealthy man pursued Hallakgungi, but failing has and he strives to mold the material world into a
to capture him, tortured and killed Wongang Ami. Tenth Heaven.
After years, the son reunited with father, who was made Toward that end, he is a god of bureaucracy who
into the Igong when he found Jeoseong. Learning his believes that all people have a place in a grand system
mother’s fate, he returns with both the Resurrection and they must each receive their just reward for their
Flowers to revive her and the Flower of Destruction work. Hwanin, in the spirit of that belief, promotes and

Undying Corruption: Divinities 93

 keeps mortals and subordinates in line through highly the material plane and justify the move by fulfilling
lucrative positions. Most notably, he tamed fierce forces Hwanin’s interests succeeded, leading to Danguk’s
of nature such as the Yongwangs by accepting them into founding and the creation of Asadal, the City of the
his bureaucracy. It can be said that Hwanin strives to Gods.
be merely a figurehead of a system he aims to create as He soon proved to be an adept administrator, if only
above divinity. so he could enjoy more free time for himself. This exact
Title: Supreme Heavenly Emperor quality of a god who only wished to be mortal endeared
Alignment: Lawful Good his followers to him. Though Hwanung had accepted
Favored Weapon: Staff mortality and passed on, his divinity still lingers across
Domain(s): Arcana, Light, Order the lands, allowing Clerics to draw power through their
faith in him. An aspect of his divinity lingers in Danguk
UNDERWORLD KINGS in the form of an Archfey, residing in a mountain
distant from the Capital.
The Narakwang (나락왕)
Titles: Divinity Among Mortals, Heavenly Regent
While originally they were Fiends, mostly Devils, Alignment: Neutral Good
they found favor with Hwanin who believed their Favored Weapon: Shortsword
adherence to law could be used for a better purpose. Domain(s): Knowledge, Life, Nature
Having proved their loyalty to Hwanin, they were
appointed as the Ten Judges of the Dead, the
Narakwang. Their tasks suited their brutal nature as MOTHERS OF DANGUK
they tenderized the collected malice out of dead souls Honyeo (호녀)
before they were allowed to reincarnate and start their
lives anew. As the Divine Beast who sacrificed her own wish for
mortality for her friend, Honyeo prowled the lands,
The highest among them, Yeomra, oversees the watching over Ungnyeo and Hwanung’s children. She
activities and speaks at the behest of all kings. Yeomra is accepted her death when her body ossified into the
often depicted as a crowned, horned fiend with a bullish island of Hodamguk. The Sangun were born on the
demeanor or a scowling, bearded bureaucrat who sits island and continue to revere Honyeo as the mother of
behind a giant table. Most Clerics of the Narakwang their people. Honyeo is regarded as a selfish, prideful
follow Yeomra specifically. They can be found in both goddess, protective of those she regards as her love and
local and national halls of justice as ministers and kin. Every Sangun is born having heard her edicts and
barristers who favor punitive measures. The Narakwang live to the best of their abilities in her stead. The aspect
and their followers believe evil to be justified as a of Honyeo is said to manifest when a thousand Sangun
measure against evil. Even still, nobody in Danguk fails gather in one place.
to quake with terror at the mention of their name.
Edicts: regard the people of Danguk as neighbors
Titles: Judges of the Dead and protect them as your own, live according
Alignment: Lawful Neutral to your desires, shelter the weak and mock the
Favored Weapon: Greatclub powerful
Domain(s): Death, Grave, Order Anathema: bow to those weaker than you, ignore
anyone in danger that you cannot protect, back
THE DESCENDED away from a fight
Titles: Tiger Woman, The Primordial Tiger
Hwanung (환웅) Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
The son of Hwanin lived life trying to compromise Favored Weapon: Claw or jaws
between his father’s will and his personal wishes. Domain(s): Nature, Tempest
Hwanung was the Supreme God’s carefree child who
looked down on creation and yearned to be part of it,
never wishing to be a god. His plan to move down onto

94 Undying Corruption: Divinities

Ungnyeo (웅녀) reached this realm, leaving behind a lingering aspect of
divinity. This aspect performs divine interventions on
Bride of Hwanung, Ungnyeo was a Divine Beast
behalf of the original’s worshipers.
who accepted mortality to be closer to her love and
guide her children to a greater future. Ungnyeo has Clerics pray to “all things and nothing”, seeking
been deified as one of the matron deities of Danguk’s the same serenity that Moksaka achieved. These efforts
Mudang and Black Bear Clan. As she has offered her provide them with their spells to assist fellow mortals.
wisdom to several lines of kings, the Mudang channels Some gods, mostly lawful in nature, have learned to
her spirit to gain her advice and strength. Cults of tolerate Moksaka’s rise, seeing competition, but deities
motherhood have been built around Ungnyeo among of passion and indulgence seek to defy his students at
dwarvish clans to never forget her lasting presence in every turn.
founding the country. When Ungnyeo manifests, it is Edicts: Strive for physical and mental discipline.
in the form of an imposing Dwarven Queen who wears Seek understanding of one’s personal state and
around her a living Bear hide. the surrounding world. Liberate others from
Edicts: live true to your love, eliminate malice and desire and temptation.
hate in yourself and around you, let your personal Anathema: Refrain from taking life. Refrain from
success and enrichment of your community be taking what is not given. Refrain from carnal
the same pleasures. Refrain from speaking deceitfully.
Anathema: covet material goods over people, harm Refrain from intoxicants that cloud the mind.
any mother or child Titles: Exalted Sage, Sage of Enlightenment
Titles: Bear Woman, Dowager Queen, Holy Alignment: Neutral Good
Mother, Mother of Dwarves, The Primordial Favored Weapon: Unarmed strikes
Bear Domain(s): Life, Peace
Alignment: Neutral Good
Favored Weapon: Flail Dangun (단군)
Domain(s): Nature, Twilight As the first mortal, Dwarvish king of a united
Danguk, the entirety of Dangun’s rule was spent
THE ASCENDED ensuring the stability of his young nation. He led a
golden era where all people of Danguk were united
Moksaka (목샤카) as neighbors and countrymen, but also a period of
A mortal who had become a sage in his lifetime, they turbulence as fear of death led to the birth of the first
ascended into godhood by transcending suffering and Akryung. Though Dangun had been deified and
desire while alive. After transcending the mortal coil ascended following his death, his worshippers grew only
and becoming a god, they passed on teachings meant after the country’s fracturing. They prayed to him for
to assist in achieving a state of awakening and freeing his leadership in reuniting his people once again.
one’s self from suffering. He preaches that only by In the present day, Dangun is a deity of both
obtaining this state of awakening, can mortals achieve politicians and military leaders who seek to create
an existence free from all desire. Following the first years or recreate an ideal kingdom of the gods. His most
of his ascension, Moksaka disappeared from the world, fervent followers believe him to be a single entity, an
leaving behind residual divine power that manifests in incarnation of Hwanung and Hwanin, as governor of
the realm of gods. It’s believed that this icon bestows mortals and the heavens. When faith in the current king
divine magic to his Clerics, Monks, and Paladins. wanes, the followers of the founder god pray that he
Moksaka believes in a state of being even higher than returns to once again take the throne.
those of the gods, as they are far from free of desire or Edict: Place the needs of your country over
suffering. Above all existing planes mortals are capable yourself, defend your neighbors and village from
of traversing into, a grander layer of the world, Akasha, invaders, punish traitors, lessen the burden of
exists that one can only reach when their souls have those that labor the hardest
shed all attachments. Followers believe their teacher

Undying Corruption: Divinities 95

 Anathema: Betray your fellow countrymen, into the seas. Sochonguk doubted that the chest could
become or raise the undead hold him, but used the means to keep his son safe where
Titles: The Founder, Son of Heaven he couldn’t harm anyone else. In the meantime, he
Alignment: Lawful Neutral asked the western Yongwang to watch over the boy and
Favored Weapon: Pike raise him well.
Domain(s): Forge, Order Keonegitto, as predicted, broke free from the
chest. Life in the seas agreed with him as he met the
Jumong (주몽) Yongwang’s youngest daughter. The two rivaled each
The founding Orcish monarch of Goguryeo, he other in terms of strength and Koenegitto delighted to
was blessed with uncanny accuracy. Founder of a new have a friend that could keep up with his abilities. The
Dynasty. He’s a half-god born to a union between two married, but the Yongwang asked Koenegitto to
Haemosu, king of Buyeo during the Fractured Era and leave when his vast hunger drained the kingdom’s food
Lady Yuhwa, daughter of the god of Amnok River, supplies. They returned to the surface during Dangun’s
Habaek. He was doted on and became spoiled in his rule when the Emperor of Darkness ravaged the lands.
youth to the envy of his step-brothers. They plotted Koenegitto and his wife joined the battles and fought
against him to protect their inheritance and had him the Akryung, earning him his place as a god of war in
exiled from court. Jumong left on a journey of self- the Dangukese pantheon. His divine powers, embodied
discovery and realized his lineage as son of Haemosu, in a bronze gong, could summon warriors from the past
accepting his dream of unifying Danguk once again and future to battle his enemies. Though considered
after the Zhu Empire’s invasion. a hero, Koenegitto’s temperament ensured he would
He formed the country of Goguryeo after reuniting always butt heads with other generals and deities. At the
all the scattered tribes in Buyeo into Goguryeo. Jumong end of his life, he avenged his childhood self by scaring
used his rule to revolt against Zhu and with the both his parents to death, demoting his father to a
combined armies of all tribes, conquered their regional mountain ridge and ascending his mother into a shrine
Commandery. Jumong’s dream of reunification spirit.
persisted through generations as rulers of all regions Edicts: always finish a fight, answer the call to
inherited this will. This wish and his leadership deified battle, never let a score go unsettled, live to your
him as an ancestral god. heart’s content
Edicts: Be generous in victory, honor your siblings, Anathema: turn the other cheek, oppress those
strike swiftly and decisively weaker than you, entrap or prolong others’ misery
Anathema: Hold grudges, act without purpose, Titles: Raging Wargod
hoard your treasures Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
Titles: The Archer King, Dongmyeong of Favored Weapon: Jangchang
Goguryeo, Holy King of the East, The Unifier Domain(s): Tempest, War
Alignment: Chaotic Good
Favored Weapon: Gakgung Princess Bari (바리공주)
Domain(s): Peace, War Princess Bari, or the Abandoned Princess, is the
matron deity of all Mudang in Danguk. Her role as
Koenegitto governess of the departed gives her authority over the
The demigod son of a regional deity revered in a Jeoseung Saja, the psychopomps that guide souls to the
shrine, Sochonguk, and a mortal woman, Baek Junim, realm of the dead. She has a kind face representing the
Koenegitto’s temperament rocked Danguk. At the peaceful rest that comes with passing away naturally.
age of three, he flew into a rage whenever someone Princess Bari originally ascended to divinity after saving
disparaged his lowborn mother. He became like a her birth parents who had abandoned her by sneaking
natural disaster that razed villages and towns in his into Jeoseung and the Flower Fields of Seocheon,
path. When even seasoned warriors couldn’t stop him, representing also filial piety and the first act of a
Sochonguk locked him inside of a chest and threw it Mudang interceding over death to heal. All Mudang

96 Undying Corruption: Divinities

give thanks and prayer to her when they perform a HOUSEHOLD GODS
ritual to channel the spirits of the dead.
Ancestor Worship
Edicts: soothe others over the inevitability of death,
purify the undead that cling to the world, save The work of mortals is not finished in their current
others who experience spiritual possession and life. At times, the gods have need of them in the afterlife
welcome new initiates and elevate them into positions of higher office in the
Anathema: use profane means to prolong your beyond. Because death is merely passage from one
existence, betray or abandon those you share plane of existence to another, until a soul reenters the
bonds with, place yourself above another cycle of reincarnation, the people of Danguk have
Titles: Mother of the Mudang come to revere and worship deceased generations of
Alignment: Neutral Good their family who have performed great deeds. They
Favored Weapon: Dagger hope to receive favor from their ancestors who watch
Domain(s): Grave, Life, Twilight over them to prevail over the hardships they face. By
achieving fragments of divinity through filial worship,
Yongwangs these mortal spirits gained the power to answer their
loved ones’ prayers. These prayers include granting
The Four Yongwangs, the Dragon Kings, are
fortune for themselves or misfortune to their rivals,
sovereigns of the seas based in the four cardinal
health through times of illness, and support through
directions of Danguk. Before Dangun’s birth, they were
more advanced rituals against adversarial spirits or gods.
the strongest of the sea dragons whose territories and
The spirit sickness that many Mudang undergo can be
followings were vast enough to function as kingdoms.
traced to their ancestor spirits visiting them.
They warred with each other for supremacy, often
dragging mortals into their conflicts, but they’ve since Ancestor worship has grown so popular in Danguk
begun cooperating upon accepting divinity. that every house that can manage it has a shrine built
for their family. Clerics that worship their ancestors
The people of Danguk pray to them for protection
primarily and other gods secondarily are not
before heading into the seas, fearing their primal rage
uncommon.
which once destroyed shoreside towns and villages.
Farmers further in the lands have become members Edicts: continue accruing valor for your family
of their cult, praying for fertility in their lands. The name, conduct yourself admirably in all settings
Yongwangs are that of the only gods that exist in the Anathema: act in such a way that would embarrass
mortal realm, but their control over the seas and the your lost family as if they were watching, betray
creatures that they have earned the title regardless. They any living family member
rule from the Ocean Palaces, the undersea realm of the Titles: Venerations of one’s ancestors
Dragon Kings, and wage war against those that would Alignment: Any
spoil their waters. Favored Weapon: Any
Domain(s): Any one
Edicts: destroy evil and those that would pollute
the seas, share in the bounties of the seas, honor Variant: Local Deity
the generosity of the Dragon Kings, punish
Clerics can worship sets of localized deities native
prideful and arrogant metallic and chromatic
to either where they grew up or their adopted homes.
dragons
While these gods aren’t powerful enough to grant
Anathema: dirty the waters of the seas, bow to
followers outside of their region magic, they can
another dragon, fish more than what you need
perform the duties of any well-established deities to
from the seas
their existing servitors. Work with your GM to create
Titles: The Dragon Kings of the Seas, Rage
a new set of edicts and anathema and make sure what
Incarnate
works best for both your character’s backstory, the
Alignment: Lawful Neutral
setting, and what they’re comfortable with allowing.
Favored Weapon: Trident
Domain(s): Arcana, Nature, Tempest

Undying Corruption: Divinities 97

 Eopshin (업신) outhouse, forgive others without recompense,
honor Jowangshin, tolerate another’s self-
The goddess of wealth and the house’s storage
righteousness
room, Eopshin is among the Household Gods that
Titles: Toilet Goddess, Outhouse Bride
protect the house. She’s unique in that she appears in
Alignment: Neutral Evil
an animal form, embodying an appearance that is the
Favored Weapon: Battle Axe
bane of vermin. Her followers typically keep a pet snake
Domain(s): Death
in their storage room as a sign of her presence in their
home. They pray to her for good wealth and believe
seeing her in their dreams is an omen that they will soon
Jowangshin (조왕신)
experience money problems. Goddess of Fire and the Hearth, Jowangshin is the
patron deity of all spouses who work in the home. She
Edicts: maintain a storage room or keep your
is the goddess of the kitchen who oversees the health
wealth inside chests and baskets, keep to a frugal
of the entire home so that its residents can be in peak
lifestyle, punish thieves and crooks
condition to contribute to the world. Jowangshin does
Anathema: harm snakes, weasels, toads, spiders, or
not forbid her followers from worshipping other deities
any beast that preys on vermin, use your wealth in
and generally has the most lax rules concerning what
a way that brings harm to others
they do outside of the hearth. However, she’s known
Titles: Goddess of Storage and Wealth, Goddess of
to be strict and merciless when it comes to conduct in
Professions, Serpent Mother
her hearth, being capable of rebelling against Hwanin
Alignment: Chaotic Good
or gods above her if they break her taboos. Jowangshin
Favored Weapon: Rapier
is otherwise a benevolent deity whose followers believe
Domain(s): Nature
maintaining the cardinal rules of hospitality preserve
peace in society.
Jeongrang Gakshi (정랑 각시)
She embodies a clay altar placed above a hearth
Jeongrang Gakshi appears as a beautiful, young
where her followers awake every morning to pour a
woman with flowing hair as long as she is tall. Her
bowl of fresh water into.
jealous feud with the Hearthmother, Jowangshin,
earned Hwanin’s ire and she was exiled as the goddess Edict: Always feed someone who asks you for food,
of the outhouse. For acolytes of other deities, this embrace and treat strangers and guests as friends,
incident acted as a divine decree to maintain hygiene resolve conflicts through peaceful means where
and promote mutual health. But Jeongrang Gakshi possible
despised the self-righteous deities for stripping her of Anathema: Do not curse while in the hearth, do
her authority as a former goddess of the hearth. not sit on the hearth, do not place your feet on
the hearth, maintain cleanliness in the kitchen
She directed her rage at children in particular. If
Titles: Hearthmother
a child falls into a toilet pit, people believe that she
Alignment: Neutral
pulled them in and used the opportunity to curse
Favored Weapon: Dagger
them to die before adulthood. Those that worship her
Domain(s): Hearth, Order, Peace
do so in hopes of quelling her anger or to enable her
worst qualities. Some paladins succeed in channeling
her powers and redirecting them toward retribution
Munshin (문신)
against wrongdoers. For this, though Jeongrang Gakshi In certain areas of Danguk, the Munshin are
is an evil goddess, other gods still see her presence as a regarded as the highest of the Household Gods, even
necessary evil. surpassing Seongjushin. As god of doorways, the
Munshin can allow or prevent the passage of various
Edicts: take care of your hair, create waste and litter
beings and concepts. Their followers worship the
frequently, take vengeance against those who
Munshin to prevent the passage of diseases and omens
wrong you, let no wrong go unpunished
from entering houses. The Munshin are a union of
Anathema: use an outhouse on any day that ends
door gods among the Household Gods that rule over
with a 6, cough three times before entering an

98 Undying Corruption: Divinities

each specific door inside a house. Whenever people the patron deity of an individual village. They appear
entered or left a building, they would pray to the mostly as women clad in full armor and protect
Munshin for protection. villages from disease and misfortune. Though they are
It’s believed that through their power, vampires the weakest of the Household Gods, they appear in
cannot enter areas they are not welcomed into. multitudes in each village, serving as their personal war
gods (though they’re more akin to foot soldiers than
Edicts: Close the door after entering or leaving a generals). It’s said travelers spit near a cairn representing
building, fix any doors or locks that are broken the Seonanshin as they pass by because the gods feed on
under appropriate circumstances, keep a watchful saliva.
eye for rogues and trespassers in your home or a
building you’re welcomed into Edicts: Protect your neighbors and friends, always
Anathema: Destroy locks or doors of someone’s return a favor in kind, look out for the weakest
homes, trespass without invitation among you, build a stone cairn on roads that you
Titles: Gods of Doorways, Lords of Architecture travel
Alignment: Lawful Good Anathema: Ignore someone in trouble when you
Favored Weapon: Mace could have helped them, steal from others, use
Domain(s): Forge, Order magic that corrupts minds
Titles: Village Deity, Little Soldier
Samshin Halmoni (三神 할머니) Alignment: Lawful Good
Favored Weapon: Spear
The Samshin Halmoni is a trio of goddesses that Domain(s): Order, War
rule over childbirth and fate. All three goddesses appear
as elderly women each with different duties: the first Seongjushin
protects the pregnant mother, the second ensures that
the birth is safely performed, and the third watches over The Seongjushin is the highest god of the house,
the child until they reach adolescent age. Her followers representing its construction and structure. As the
typically consist of midwives, mothers, and childless god of the building and the deity of architecture, all
women, but every house in a village keeps an altar to the operations of the house including those of the other
Samshin Halmoni in the form of an earthenware pot, gods fall under Seongjushin’s judgment. Depending
filled with rice and sealed. Festivals would be held in on how well the residents of the house treat him, he
their honor to ensure the safety of the village’s children. uses his authority to attract more fortune and wealth
to the home and wards against disease, adding years to
While they dote on children, the Samshin Halmoni their lives. Fundamentally, the Seongjushin is a god of
are strict with irresponsible adults. luck whose power only grows alongside the rest of his
Edicts: Protect children and be a good influence pantheon.
to them, be attentive to the needs of women and More than anything else, the Seongjushin despise
mothers, take up habits positive to your health homes that have been abandoned. Their more powerful
Anathema: Bring harm to women and children, Clerics are ordered to house those that lack shelter in
abandon your responsibilities to your family or these homes or none can be found, build a home if
community, invite evil spirits in to the world possible. Empty houses drain the Seongjushin’s power
Titles: Three Goddess Grandmothers, Tripartite while houses that have mortals tending to them expands
Midwives it.
Alignment: Neutral Good
Favored Weapon: Handaxe Edict: House the homeless, let nothing go to waste,
Domain(s): Life, Peace perform regular maintenance in buildings and all
crafted material
Seonangshin (서낭신) Anathema: Abandon a building, spurn a genuine
plea for help
Those who wish to invoke the spirit of the Titles: Owner of the House, Household Guardian
Seonangshin in their village construct a stone tower, Alignment: Lawful Neutral
tablet, or house in their name. The Seonangshin is
Undying Corruption: Divinities 99
 Favored Weapon: Light Hammer the material plane and Gucheon accessible from the
5e Domain(s): Forge, Knowledge peaks. To that end, they appoint and charge Clerics to
investigate and deal with potential disturbances.
Teojushin Edicts: Meditate often, protect the astral and
The Teojushin is the patron deity of the foundation ethereal planes, assist struggling travelers wherever
upon which the house is built. As the house is being you meet them
constructed, the Teojushin comes to life in excitement Anathema: Lose yourself over unimportant
over the fortune to gather atop the ground. Unlike matters, knowingly bring pandemonium into
the other Household Gods, the Teojushin is known places of peace, pollute the lands
for her avarice. Unless the house is built properly, it’s Titles: Gatekeeper of the Heavens, Mountain
feared that Teojushin could swallow the home whole. Deities, Dukes of Spirits
To keep this from happening, the people of Danguk Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
would fill a pot with rice cakes, peas, or red beans, cover Favored Weapon: Glaive
it with a cone-shaped umbrella of rice stalks, and bury Domain(s): Knowledge, Nature
the pot into the ground. The pot itself then represents
the goddess’s material vessel. While the goddess
PHILOSOPHIES
believes she has a stake to maintain in the house, she
will protect it alongside the other Household Deities. Luminism
Where the Seongjushin fails in its duties, the Teojushin
Luminism deifies the pursuit of moral governance
compensates.
itself and believes it is best embodied in the bonds that
Edicts: Devote your all to the prosperity of your people share with one another: between kings and their
home, hoard your valuables, treat charity with subjects, parents and children, neighbors and fellow
suspicion neighbors. To forge and strengthen these material
Anathema: Bury into the floor of your home, give bonds will elevate both the living world and the
to others more than what you would receive heavens above. Luminists put their beliefs into practice,
Titles: Goddess of Foundations, Avaricious Pot entering government as studied scholar-sages to guide
Alignment: Neutral the world around them toward harmony. Through
Favored Weapon: Maul learning comes wisdom and the only type of faith that
5e Domain(s): Forge, Trickery matters is one that improves the lives of people.
Schools, universities, and halls of government serve
GOD OF NATURE as temples for Luminists and its clergy consists of
teachers who strive to share their ethics and expertise.
Sanshin Luminists are apathetic towards gods, and believe
The beauty of mountains as they reached into mortals should govern themselves and guide the people
the heavens have fascinated the hearts of mortals and with a heavy hand to follow the code of ethics. Other
inspired awe. That inspiration has created a vacuum of faiths view Luminism as shallow, a cult of the flesh that
faith that worthy spirits have filled to become Sanshin, does nothing to prepare the state of one’s soul for the
Mountain Gods. These deities represent the mountains journey that comes after life. In either case, Luminism is
and the spirits that inhabit them. They communicate the guiding philosophy of the powerful in Danguk.
with travelers who venture up the mountains to Titles: The Sacred Secular
meditate and seek enlightenment, teaching or testing Alignment: Any Lawful
them depending on their mood. Their worshippers Favored Weapon: Staff
build shrines or altars at the base of the mountains to Domain(s): Arcana, Knowledge, Order
appease the god above.
In the world of nature spirits, the Sanshin serve as
lords or magistrates under Hwanin’s service. Their true
role is to oversee the astral and ethereal planes bordering

100 Undying Corruption: Divinities

EVILS OF THE WORLD Ironically, it’s through competition with Moksaka that
gave Mara a meaning beyond as a mere Demon Lord.
The Emperor of Darkness Any devotee of the divine seeking to transcend the
The desire of mortals to bring harm and misfortune boundaries of flesh must eventually confront Mara and
onto others accumulates into a form of energy called far more have failed than succeeded.
malice. When malice, the pollution of the soul, is Titles: Lord of Desire
allowed to gather in large quantities within the Dark Alignment: Neutral Evil
Realm, it resembles something like faith, which Favored Weapon: Scimitar
allows gods to exist. That same power brings to life Domain(s): Nature, Trickery
the Emperor of Darkness, a shapeless entity of pure
malice that exists as a nihilistic engine that seeks little Sobyeolwang (소별왕)
else besides spreading unending suffering throughout
Sobyeolwang the Usurper is a primordial titan
the universe. Its worshippers pray for it to curse and
that has existed before the creation of the world. He
bring ruin to their enemies, but it possesses no sentience
was one of the few that assisted in the creation of the
or intelligence of its own. The spite that its believers
world, bringing to life the first giants. When the work
already hold in their hearts draws it to them, granting
was complete, Sobyeolwang beheld the gods’ finished
them power often at the cost of being consumed by
masterpiece and desired to possess it for himself. In the
their hate.
days following completion, Sobyeolwang challenged the
Though the Emperor of Darkness possesses power gods to a series of contests to determine control over the
of creation and destruction akin to the Supreme world. Though Sobyeolwang lost the first two, he rigged
God Hwanin, its lack of intelligence keeps it from the third. For several years, the world plunged into a
tapping into its full potential. The Emperor’s followers paradise exclusively for the titan, terrorizing its creatures
continue to work toward the day when a vessel can and shattering landscapes.
accept all of its fell power and direct it against the gods
For his deception, the gods turned against
above.
Sobyeolwang regardless of the terms of their agreement
Titles: Malice, Remnant of Chaos and sealed him away. Few remember the episode with
Alignment: Chaotic Evil Sobyeolwang the Usurper except the giants who pass on
Favored Weapon: Sickle stories of the golden time the world was theirs. Quietly,
Domain(s): Death, War, Trickery Sobyeolwang continues to whisper commands into the
ears of his priests, eagerly awaiting the day he can take
Mara back his beautiful world.
Mara, Lord of Desire, is a Demon Lord representing Title: Demiurge, The Usurper, the Sealed God
carnal pleasure. They have been responsible for the Alignment: Neutral
fall of countries and civilizations into decadence at the Favored Weapon: Greatsword
expense of mortal lives. Mara feels no greater joy beyond Domain(s): Tempest, Trickery
corrupting heroes and sages to degenerate into lust.
Because their schemes are often disguised in pleasing
visages and tantalizing whispers, the consequences are
often too late to stave off. Anyone who surrenders their
wills to desire and depravity shows faith to Mara, even
without putting a name to the Demon Lord.
Mara’s physical form changes to reflect the tastes
of anyone beholding them, typically humanoid. Few
mortals have beheld their true form besides Moksaka
who has abandoned their desires. Having ascended
to divinity by rejecting his temptations, Mara feels
particular obsession with thwarting the sage’s followers.

Undying Corruption: Divinities 101

 BACKGROUNDS ASTROLOGIAN
Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, Perception
Tool Proficiencies: Cartographer’s Tools or
Navigator’s Tools
Languages: One of your choice
To give you a sense of which walks of life people
Equipment: Abacus, star chart, robes, lamp, a
in Danguk come from, take a look at the following
quill, bottle of black ink
backgrounds. You aren’t restricted to these choices as
Feature: Stellar Literacy
your character will join the Black Bear Clan under their
unique circumstances, of course. You have spent years studying the skies allowing you
Existing Backgrounds can be adapted to suit the to recognize basic constellations and specific stars. You
setting of Danguk. For example, an Entertainer in have a general idea of what time of the day it is and you
Danguk would be a Gwangdae, a traveling performer do not need a compass to determine which direction is
who plays often for common folk, skilled with mask north while in the Material Plane.
plays and feats of acrobatics. Spy would be an excellent
Suggested Characteristics
substitute for a Royal Investigator, an agent for the
crown tasked with tracking acts of sedition by nobles. While scholars are generally prized in Danguk, an
There’s no single, correct way of representing Danguk Astrologian is valued particularly for their ability to
and broadly, a fantasy story based on Korean history. divine the future even without the need for magic.
They record any changes and patterns to stars from
their observatories and universities and write reports
on the current state of the planes. The heavens inspire
those in your field and they desire to understand the
grand phenomena of the universe.
102 Undying Corruption: Backgrounds
BAEKJEONG Suggested Characteristics
Skill Proficiencies: Animal Handling or Culinarians fostered a passion for cooking and
Intimidation, and Athletics constantly seek to improve their dishes. They can
Tool Proficiencies: Leatherworkers’ Tools, or be found as travelers, seeking new, regional dishes
Weaver’s Tools to expand their palate. In Danguk, the common
Languages: One of your choice people respect Culinarians that cook and provide for
Equipment: Common clothes, hammer, lamp, a communities and often pool their ingredients to enjoy
set of leatherworkers’ tools, shovel the luxuries of an extraordinary meal. Nobles and Kings
Feature: Beast Tamer seek out Culinarians to keep their talents.

You’ve tended to livestock all your life as part of MUDANG

your upbringing, performing a responsibility that has
ostracized both you and your family from polite society. Skill Proficiencies: Nature, Performance
You have Advantage on Animal Handling checks used Tool Proficiencies: Drum or another musical
to calm a violent Beast. instrument
Languages: One of your choice
Alternative Feature: Executioner Equipment: A holy symbol, book of songs and
Your background in slaughtering animals has forced chants, collection of bells like rattles, costume, a
you to serve the state as an executioner. Years of service pouch full of 50 talisman slips
culling the lives of the irredeemable has given you a
grim presence. Though your profession may not reflect Feature: Spirit Sensitivity
your principles, people underestimate you. Opponents You’ve been possessed by a spirit in your earlier years
rolling for a contested ability check against you outside and that experience has awakened inside you sensitivity
of physical contests have Disadvantage. to the occult. While this feature does not allow you to
Suggested Characteristics: Baekjeong are part of detect the location of Celestials, Fiends, or the Undead,
the lowest caste in Danguk by either their occupation they must succeed on a Dexterity (Stealth) check against
or those of their parents. Unlike serfs, a Baekjeong your Passive Perception if they step within 60 ft of you.
still has freedom over their business, handling meat in On a failure, the GM tells you in secret that a creature
ways society deems unclean. They can either seek to of one of the three Types is nearby.
escape their lot in life or better their and their loved Suggested Characteristics
ones’ conditions. Their difficult lives in an unjust,
discriminatory society can also motivate them to try In Danguk’s past, the people revered and counted
and rebel against it. on the Mudang to exorcise the Akryung rampant in the
lands. Those halcyon days are long gone and though
the target resents them for past circumstances, they
CULINARIAN
continue their work to maintain stability between the
Skill Proficiencies: Sleight of Hand, and Medicine material and the spiritual realms. A Mudang doesn’t
or Survival choose to become one. Their power either awakens
Tool Proficiencies: Cook’s Utensils following a possession by a spirit or through training.
Languages: One of your choice One of the duties of a Mudang is to help these people
Equipment: A set of cook’s utensils, bottles of soy through and occasionally, they choose to join their
sauce and cooking oil, vials of spices, traveler’s ranks. If a Mudang isn’t particularly heroic and gung-
clothes, recipe book, iron pot, a pouch containing ho about protecting people, this background represents
5 gp for them a means of making end’s meet.
Feature: An Unforgettable Meal
The quality of your cooking can reach people’s
hearts. You can substitute a Charisma check made to
improve the attitude of another creature with an ability
check using Cook’s Utensils.
Undying Corruption: Backgrounds 103
 SEX WORKER Suggested Characteristics
Skill Proficiencies: Deception or Persuasion, and Despite what the title implies, Tiger Hunters
Performance contend with not just tigers, but any dangerous
Tool Proficiencies: A Gaming Set or a Musical monster threatening the peace in an area. The life
Instrument you lead is dangerous and you’re unlikely to become
Languages: One of your choice wealthy, but the common people count on you for their
Equipment: A set of fine clothes, book of poetry, safety. Tiger Hunters end up being conscripted by the
norigae and perfume, a pouch of 5 gp military to see their skills used against armies of rival
nations, but some become recluses.
Feature: Cultured Courtesan
Despite your hard-scrabble upbringing, you’ve been YANGBAN
trained diligently in fine arts and poetry to impress your Skill Proficiencies: Arcana or History and
high society patrons. You know the ins and outs of the Performance
gentry, local laws and hierarchies, and are sought after Tool Proficiencies: Calligrapher’s Supplies
by nobles. Your experience gives you Advantage on Languages: One of your choice
Charisma (Deception or Persuasion) checks to improve Equipment: One set of Calligrapher’s Supplies,
the attitudes of a noble. a set of fine clothes, a clan stamp, a purse
containing 25 gp
Suggested Characteristics
Sex workers occupy the lowest caste in Danguk Feature: Civil Servant
society alongside other entertainers and baekjeong, Your status in society as someone who has passed
but their access to high society gives them privileges the civil service examinations offers you privileges
few can enjoy. Their class is viewed with disgust, by the state. You have access into the halls of power
but individually can garner the popularity of a local such as government buildings, but your presence in
celebrity. Being part of both these worlds can influence underprivileged areas can draw unwanted attention.
a sex worker to use their position to better the lives of
common people or seek to escape the bonds of their Suggested Characteristics
class.F Though you were born to a wealthy family, your
early life wasn’t easy. To keep your family’s rank, you
TIGER HUNTER were expected to study poetry, literature, history, and
Skill Proficiencies: Athletics, Survival other disciplines in the hopes of passing the state’s civil
Tool Proficiencies: Leatherworker’s Tools or service exams. A Yangban is a powerful literati that is
Tinker’s Tools expected to be filial to both family and king and act as a
Languages: One of your choice moral exemplar, though some believe they are moral by
Equipment: Hunting trap, bag of caltrops, nature of their rank.
common clothes, hempen rope (50 ft.), a purse
containing 10 gp

Feature: Toss a Coin

You’re counted on by your community to dispatch
wild beasts and even monsters threatening travelers.
Out of respect for your trade, commoners will offer
you free lodging and come and tip you off about any
suspicious sightings of potentially dangerous creatures.

104 Undying Corruption: Backgrounds

TIMELINE destroy or tame the Beasts.
50: The Sandalwood Tree seed blooms, instituting
the new system of reincarnation that allows mortal
Pre-History souls to return to Danguk after death. The Primordial
Before 0: The land later known as Danguk isolates Beasts change their perception of mortals from weak,
the Primordial Beasts, immortal creatures born from individual creatures to a vast, infinitely replenishing
remnants of chaos leftover from the world’s creation, colony.
from the rest of the world. Owing no allegiance to the 200: Mortals flourish and wield divine powers
gods due to believing that they were created by the that elevate among them heroes who can challenge
planet itself, they lived solitary lives. Humanoids, largely and defeat the Primordial Beasts. They are hailed as
humans, halflings, orcs, dragonborns, and elves, form the first heroes of Danguk, but bloodshed intensifies
disparate tribes to protect each other from the island’s in the coming century. Mortal tribes still siding with
harsh climates. They worshiped the Primordial Beasts their Primordial Beasts organize attacks against the new
as the strongest expressions of nature and to plead for mortal towns and city.
mercy in living in their territories. More extreme tribes
formed cults around these beasts, declaring themselves
350: Hwanung, representing the mortals, signs a
pact of coexistence with the Beasts: the Sandalwood
to be the children of certain Beasts, and warred with
Tree has grown to sustain in its roots several demiplanes
other tribes.
(including the new Underworld of Jeoseung). He will
Founding Era grant the Beasts that desire isolation and their followers
a coexistent demiplane resembling the country to thrive
0: Hwanung, who discerns potential in the strength in without divine interference. They will have 100 years
of the humanoids who have lived without the gods’ to determine their fates before Hwanung closes the
blessings for so long, descends into the young land gates between the Material Plane and the demiplane.
with his Ministers of Clouds, Rainfall, and Winds. In
doing so, he accepts a demotion from his divine status 450: Most Primordial Beasts choose to leave for the
as deity to an archfey. Hwanung imparts first onto the Beast Demiplane with their followers. Some choose to
Primordial Bear’s tribe techniques to build civilization live alongside Hwanung, seeing potential in the futures
such as agriculture and bestows gifts of grain. that the mortals can build for their lands. Few others,
like the Primordial Fox, continue to struggle against
1: The Primordial Bear challenges the upstart Hwanung to seize back their lands.
Hwanung who dares encroach on her territories and
meddle in the affairs of her mortals. Hwanung wrestles 504: Mortal heroes slay the Primordial Fox,
and defeats the Primordial Bear in physical combat as annihilating her soul. Her tribe, who inherited her
demonstration of his strength and conviction. The blood, disband and integrate into mortal civilization
Primordial Bear acknowledges Hwanung’s power, or escape into the wilds, vowing vengeance. They form
convincing her closest allies, including the Primordial the Fox Clan, transforming into the first Gumihos. A
Tiger, to heed him. centuries’ reign of peace begins with all of the mortals
in the lands for the first time united under Hwanung’s
5: Hwanung first plants the seeds of the divine guidance.
Sandalwood Tree. He promises that should mortals
practice his wisdom, they can grow the tree and 1000: The Primordial Tiger and Primordial Bear
someday join the ranks of the gods. requested Hwanung for mortality, wishing to live, die,
and follow their loved ones into a peaceful afterlife.
21: Mortal tribes begin to relocate in the lands Tiger surrendered her chance to Bear, acknowledging
surrounding the tree, which grows into the City of the her love for Hwanung, and left Danguk. The Bear, now
Gods, Asadal. Other Primordial Beasts take notice of Ungnyeo, married Dangun.
humanoids allying with Hwanung and congregating
to the country’s center. The Primordial Fox accuses
Hwanung for spearheading a scheme by the gods to

Undying Corruption: Timeline 105

 1086: Dangun, the first mortal king, was born. The through punishment instituted by the gods will
Tiger’s travels end and she accepts eternal slumber. Her someday generate an untameable amount of malice,
body petrified and turned into the island of Hodamguk she imbues the Mudang with powers to cleanse mortal
where the Sangun people were born. resentment through absolution.
1111: Hwanung abdicated the throne and allowed 1740: Advances in pottery and intensive
his form to dissipate into spiritual matter to be scattered agriculture lead to the height of Danguk’s Bronze Age.
into the winds. More demigods of the hearth ascend coinciding with
increased advancements surrounding pottery.
1616: The combined malice of the vengeful
Primordial Beasts and defeated tribes grow and spread 1890: Ungnyeo passed on, satisfied with the peace
across the lands, possessing others as Akryung. Dangun and prosperity the nation achieved. She ascends to the
raises an army to battle the Akryung. rank of a divine spirit, worshiped by Mudang, Druids,
and Clerics.
1617: Dangun beseeched the heavens who gave
him their full support. He makes a pilgrimage to all 2340: A rift into the Dark Realm opens. All the
corners of Danguk to sign pacts with the Yongwangs Akryung in Danguk are compelled to gather into
to contain the Undead threat. A policy of isolation is a single mortal vessel. An avatar of the Emperor of
implemented. Darkness is born, taking the shape of a fierce hound
with the power to consume the stars. The Black Bear
1620: Dangun chooses to sacrifice himself and Clan struggle against the collective grudges of Danguk.
abdicates the throne, following his father’s footsteps.
He allows his mortal form to wither and his spirit 2342: The people of Hodamguk entered Danguk
ascends as a Mountain God to protect his people from to help fight the Emperor of Darkness. The Yongwangs
the Akryung. sent emissaries and warriors into Danguk as well.
1630: Noble families begin to split on the question 2344: The Emperor is slain by the combined efforts
of the country’s isolation policy, deviating from of Danguk, Hodamguk, and the Yongwang. Hwanin
Dangun’s vision. Cultivators of Long Xin make contact admonishes the Narakwang for allowing the creation of
with Danguk nobles and exchange resources and ideas the Emperor and orders the Dark Realm to be sealed off
secretly. from any means of interplanar travel.
1640: Princess Bari, the seventh daughter, was born Fractured Era
and abandoned to die by the new king. She was found
by an elderly couple.
2420: The trauma from the years of terror under
the Emperor of Darkness is still felt. Nobles without
1653: Princess Bari sets out to meet her real faith in the kingdom’s ability to stave off calamity
parents. deepen their ties to Long Xin.
1656: Princess Bari, upon finding her parents 2440: Long Xin-aligned nobles scheme with Zhao
cursed by an untreatable disease, sets out on her quest Sun, a disgraced cultivator and military leader from the
into Jeoseong. Long Xin. The nobles seek to install Zhao who wishes
to restore his title after a significant military loss and
1669: Princess Bari returns from Jeoseong to find
smuggle him into the country beyond the watchful gaze
her real parents deceased. She uses the Resurrection
of the Yongwangs. They believe through Long Xin’s
Flowers to bring them back for a second chance at
cultivation magic, they can control the Akryung rising
life. Her deeds became an inspiration among Mudang
in the country.
serving the country.
1700: Princess Bari passes away and ascends to 2455: Zhao Sun and the nobles backing him lead
a coup against Dangun’s dynasty. The kingdom begins
divinity. She becomes the goddess of the Jeoseong Saja
to split as territories either side with or rebel against
and organizes the country’s Mudang into the Black
Zhao Sun, the usurper king. The Black Bear Clan
Bear Clan. Predicting that the system of reincarnation
maintains a mostly neutral role, deciding to prioritize

106 Undying Corruption: Timeline

the eradication of Akryung. Individual members mostly 3759: Saro wages war against Goguryeo and slays
take sides based on regional alliances. Hwanin does its king.
not recognize Zhao’s authority and does not bestow
Gucheon’s heavenly mandate on him. 3760: Hodamguk announces a position of
neutrality, but individual mercenaries align with
2540: Distrustful of Zhao’s true intentions, the and assist various states in their wars. Most gather in
Zhu Empire wages war against Zhao and invades Goguryeo.
Danguk. Zhao falls in battle and Danguk’s fractured
state enables Long Xin to establish commanderies. 3803: Saro officially declares Moksaka to be its state
The Heavens take a neutral role, leaving their clerics to deity.
guide their followers out of this calamity. Nobles loyal 3831: Goguryeo consolidated its power by
to Zhao still believe the empire’s necromantic arts to be absorbing more tribes and states into its territory.
the key to protecting Danguk. Though Hodamguk has kept to its position of
2580: The Gyerim kingdom to the west was neutrality, several generals and warlords were won
established by King Suryeong, unifying six remnants over by its strength and personally aligned with the
of noble families from Danguk. He was a part kingdom. Other states begin to look at the region
Dragonborn Tiefling who was said to have hatched anxiously.
from the egg of a cockatrice. The Zhu Empire 3840: Saro, growing increasingly nervous about
recognized Gyerim. Gyerim and Goguryeo, attempted to expand its power
2600: Goguryeo was founded in the north by King by opening trade and political relations with states that
Dongmyeon, or the Archer King Jumong. It was a would later become the Kyougen Federation. It sent
union between the scattered states of Danguk alongside several princes as “hostages” to these states as a sign of
some Orcish tribes. good will. Through their relationship, the teachings of
Moksaka begin to spread in Kyougen.
2710: The son of King Dongmyeong, Andong, set
off with his mother who founded the Kingdom of Saro 3852: Saro and Gyerim formed an alliance against
to the east after a dispute over succession. Goguryeo. Goguryeo responds by attacking Saro. It
captures the former capital city, Asadal.
2856: Moksaka was born in a distant land.
Discovering the cycle of birth and rebirth, he lived his 3916: After years of working together to fend off
life trying to find a means of escape from it. He would Goguryeo, Gyerim betrays Saro and ends the alliance.
teach for the next fifty years of his life to free one’s self In the following years, Gyerim annexed Garam.
from physical attachments. 3917: Goguryeo resisted attacks by the Long Xin,
3460: Mudang King Sureung established the resulting in a costly victory for the latter.
kingdom of Garyang in the land currently known as the 4079: Gyerim allied itself with the new regime in
Garam Province to the south. Long Xin. The combined forces overwhelmed Saro and
defeated Goguryeo. Sangun generals are captured and
Three Kingdoms Era exiled back to Hodamguk, not intent on provoking the
3640: Moksaka’s teachings reach the Long Xin. island just yet.
The first monks of the Empire appear and travel to
4095: Gyerim betrayed Long Xin, expelling them
spread his teachings across the world, clashing against
from Danguk, and completed the unification of the
the principles of cultivators who desire to master death.
Three Kingdoms. Gyerim rejects Hwanin’s request to
3740: Goguryeo wages war and destroys a close the country once again and moves forward with
commandery of Long Xin in the north. becoming a cultural powerhouse, allying with Kyougen
domains. Enraged, Hwanin ordered the Yongwangs to
3747: Goguryeo began spreading the teachings of withdraw their protection from the lands, to which
Moksaka throughout Danguk as a means of quelling
the Akryung threat and to restrict the Long Xin’s
influence.
Undying Corruption: Timeline 107
 they reluctantly obeyed. Gwangmoon, the Northern spreading carnage until Geum Yoon’s forces discover its
Yongwang, no longer trusts mortals to govern their own vulnerability to fire.
lands and schemes to wrest control from them.
4337: Yun Miteum meets with Wang Geon and
North-South States Era reveals to him that he is heir to the Goguryeo royal
clan. She beseeches him to ally with her and four of the
4104: Generals of the fallen kingdom of Goguryeo kingdom’s top generals to revolt against Geum Yoon
retreat into the north and establish their own kingdoms. and form a new country. The revolt succeeds. The Fox
Meanwhile, the King of Gyerim establishes Mudo as Clan that had supported Geum Yoon when he feared
a major trading center with neighboring countries, his loss of power fights to protect him. Yun Miteum
particularly the Kyougen domains. intervenes and defeats them. Goryeo is founded and
4120: The Black Bear Clan continued to put all Wang Geon is crowned its first king, Taejo.
of its resources into pushing back against the Akryung The new kingdom still reveres Moksaka as its patron
created by grudges of fallen casualties from the wars deity, but Yun Miteum’s Mudang are given advisory
of the past centuries. Yun Miteum, a renowned, elven positions to divine the will of the heavens.
Mudang, foresees the eventual fall of Gyerim. She
begins to lobby for the Clan’s intervention in national 4354: Gyerim surrendered officially to Goryeo,
affairs to bring order to the world of mortals. overwhelmed by constant fighting. Goryeo completed
unification, absorbing all remaining states, and
4122: Yun Miteum makes a pilgrimage to reestablishing a unified Danguk. Hwanin gives his
Hodamguk to convince the major tribes there to side blessing in the hopes that the Yongwang’s plan brings
against Gyerim when the time comes. mortals into his fold.
4240: The Fox Clan, descendents and acolytes of Goryeo Era
the Primordial Fox, use the chaos as an opportunity to
possess members of noble clans. 4370: Fearing Hodamguk might side with any
upstart, young kingdoms, Goryeo wages war against
4296: A Dragonborn, Wang Geon, was created them. They rely on bombardment by mages and
by Gwangmoon to be his heir, using the divine secrets divisions of archers to avoid any direct entanglements
he had gleaned from the gods to combine his blood with the Sangun.
with that of Jumong. Gwangmoon initiates his plan
to reform the country through his clan. Joining the 4375: Wang Geon instituted a reform policy
military to fight off against bandits and ambitious local that significantly weakened the power of nobles. He
warlords, Wang Geon began a fruitful career in the inaugurated the first civil service exams that brought a
military. new class of skilled people into government, inspired by
Long Xin. Under Gwangmoon’s orders, he was quick
4311: As predicted, Gyerim begins to crumble to execute nobles who turned against him.
through constant infighting and upheavals. Noble
families take power over the king, establishing oligarchic 4424: Goryeo triumphs over Hodamguk and
rule. assimilates the land as a vassal state.
4320: The Kingdom of Majin was founded to 4540: Despite entering a relative time of peace,
the northwest with Wang Geon appointed as its prime Wang Geon instituted harsher means of regulating
minister. Outcast nobles of Majin unify the remnants civilian life including the content of arts and
of Gyerim against their weak king in favor of Geum scholarship. Scholars and artists favorable to the
Yoon. state were, likewise, elevated, creating an elite literati
favorable to militarism.
4330: Majin’s king, Geum Yoon, began to refer to
himself as a reincarnation of Moksaka and persecuted 4589: Mages among the scholar class, supported
those who refuted his claim. The Fox Clan launches a by sympathetic nobles, launched a military coup
parade of bloodshed in his name, feasting on the livers against Wang Geon that successfully assassinated
of monks in particular. The first Bulgasari is born, him. Gwangmoon takes revenge, personally entering

108 Undying Corruption: Timeline

the battlefield with the Wang Clan to put down the 4810: Hwanin made contact with Yi Gyeong,
coup. The Black Bear Clan, partially out of fear and King Seonghyo while alive and Taejo posthumously,
for self-preservation, sides with the Wang Clan and about passing on the mandate of Heaven. Seonghyo
the Yongwang to maintain its operations across the would acquiesce in exchange for key concessions: the
country. Reform was implemented that disenfranchised country must reopen and the mortals of the reformed
and subjugated the country’s scholarly class, including land of Danguk will take their destiny into their own
Bards, Wizards, alchemists, and artificers, whose work hands. They and the gods will be equal partners in
would be put toward military application solely. pushing the Gucheon’s goals. Hwanin agreed on the
4620: Long Xin, under the Yuan Dynasty, again condition that his Clerics would be protected.
invadesd Goryeo in a series of campaigns across the With this agreement, the kingdom of Danguk was
regions over a century. The power of the Yongwang once again reformed. Archmage Oh Muwon joins the
pushes back against this invasionary force, but civilian King’s new Agency of Sage Arts, establishing the Hall
participation in the military becomes a regular aspect of of Worthies beneath it, a guild for the country’s most
life. Increasingly paranoid, Gwangmoon enacts a policy esteemed scholars and mages to serve as learned advisors
of strict isolationism. for the crown. Her Luminist faction among sages takes
power, adhering to a synthesis between Moksaka and
4754: Yi Gyeong is born to a mother with Long
Hwanin’s teachings. Their dream is to create a paradise
Xin lineage. He serves the military faithfully in service
of reason in the material plane.
of his country while building relationships with
dissatisfied military leaders and courtiers in Long Xin. Age of Illumination
Bearing witness to the Yongwang’s power in person, he
begins to fear for his country’s future. 4812: The court invites dignitaries from multiple
countries to establish a shared peace agreement.
4807: The Yongwang took the opportunity of Meanwhile, Archmage Oh invites mages from different
a border dispute against the Zhu Dynasty to fuel countries for a week-long convention of sharing each
his ambitions at taking back ancestral territory now others’ progress.
claimed by Long Xin. Yi Gyeong, however, was
commanded to rout the Zhu Empire at the country’s 4813: Civil service exams are once again
borders. Contacting Archmage Oh Muwon of the reinstituted and mandated as a condition to maintain
Asadal Royal University, he organized a pact with the nobility. Military service is also tested through an
country’s leading scholars who were long awaiting an examination system.
opportunity to turn against the royal court, the military, 4818: Jang Yong-nam, father of mechanization in
and the Wang clan. She was asked to prepare for an Danguk and the man who spearheaded the country’s
internal revolt as he returned to the capital. scientific revolution, was born.
Midway, Yi turned his forces around to turn against 4820: The Hall of Worthies invented the early,
the Wang clan and the Goryeo court. With their practical form of the art of Astromancy, enabling
combined forces, they overwhelmed the court and wizards to observe and draw power from the cosmos.
wrested control from the Wang clan.
4822: Danguk sent its first scholars on their
4808: Yi and his forces hunted the Northern first mission outside of the planet using advances in
Yongwang in his ancient lair, slaying him. The dragon Astromancy. During their mission, they discovered and
cursed his country, his children, for betraying him. made contact with the Lunamorphs.
4809: Yi’s burgeoning government orchestrated 4825: The nation of Youseki and pockets of
a purge against officers that sided with the Wang Clan the Kojima Chain in the Kyougen region seeks to
and also against the Black Bear Clan. Their rationale consolidate power against the other domains by
was that the Clan could not be trusted and would ally obtaining territory and pathway into Ling Xin by
with corrupt men and invaders out of self-preservation. invading Danguk. They identify weakness in Danguk’s
change in leadership and seek to exploit it before

Undying Corruption: Timeline 109

 Danguk regains their regional foothold.
4838: Danguk and the Lunamorphs signed a treaty
and entered into a close alliance in exchange for a share
in technology. Dangukese royal family members would
be engaged to elite members of Lunamorph society.
Seonghyo routs the Kyougen regions.
4844: The Society of Wailing Souls was formed as a
counter to the Black Bear Clan. Dispossessed Mudang
from all over Danguk joined them and allied with the
Dark Realm. In the Emperor of Darkness’s name,
they grew as a cult.
4845: Jang Yong-nam is discovered by and enters
Seonghyo’s court as an engineer. His mastery of
mechanization simplifies the use of magic and
makes it more accessible to the common man.
4870: Asadal developed its first railway
infrastructure and put into commission
its first arcane tram. A massive public
development project goes underway.
4881: Jang Yong-nam’s animated
sedan malfunctioned while the king
was inside. Bearing the full brunt of the
responsibility, he was sacked and never heard
from again.
4898: King Seonghyo passes away,
given the posthumous name of Taejo, and is
succeeded by his son, King Seongdeok.
4910: Pirate attacks would become
more frequent. Danguk raises a Navy to
combat them.
4942: An alliance of pirates called the
Onigashima Syndicate takes over Mudo, an ancient
trading port now jointly administered with the
Kyougen Federation as a goodwill gesture. Danguk
orders its Navy to rout the pirates. The battles end
with the pirates bombarded and wiped out. Reports of
what had happened on the island were downplayed and
veterans who remember have been scarred by what took
place.
4999 (Present): King Seongdeok falls ill and is
incapacitated in bed. Rumors circulate of poisoning,
but no evidence can be magically detected. Grand
Prince of Yeongcheon/Yeongcheondaegun assumes the
duties of king.
110 Undying Corruption: Timeline
NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES Unification Accords, all of this knowledge and culture
has spread across Kyougen and a veritable renaissance is
While this adventure takes place in the kingdom of
blossoming. Alongside internal growth, the unification
Danguk, you might consider playing as characters from
has invigorated and strengthened relations overseas.
other lands. Danguk is written to be compatible with
Vowing to avoid conflict, the nations entrusted a
most other settings, but this section contains specific
singular person to represent Kyougen. They bestowed
hooks and details to incorporate into your character’s
the title of ‘Sovereign’ to Kaguya, a woman with
backstories. Just as Danguk is based on Korea’s culture
familial ties in each state. While each of the four states
and history, the following lands of Long Xin and the
act autonomously, the Kaguya unifies them in matters
Kyougen Federation are based on China and Japan
of foreign affairs and interstate commerce. She wields
respectively. This section does not seek to simplify the
both political and mystical power in the interest of the
entirety of two other countries’ histories or cultures,
Federation.
but present enough context that would be relevant to
adventurers in Danguk. We hope to expand further in For centuries, the four nations that would make up
future projects on the histories, creatures, and people of Kyougen were characterized by the constant struggles
Long Xin and the Kyougen Federation. for territory and power by mercurial family houses
and organizations. To the long standing dynasties of
THE KYOUGEN FEDERATION Long Xin, these wars were mere squabbles in a series
of soluble conflicts. Historically, this has complicated
By KappaChris political and economic relations with Danguk, as
To the eastern seas of Danguk lies the Seat of the conflicting factions within Inzoku, Youseki, and
Celestials, a collection of islands known as the Kyougen Kojima would seek aid from Danguk through force or
Federation.The Kyougen Federation is a nascent power diplomacy. Since that era has ended, the ports and trade
in comparison to Danguk and Long Xin. Though fully routes between Danguk and Kyougen are no longer
recognized by her neighboring nations, the Kyougen filled with weapons and munitions from Long Xin,
nationality is still in the process of widespread adoption but instead textiles, produce, and hallmarks of each
by her own people as the Unification Accords were nation’s culture are ferried back and forth across the sea.
ratified only seven decades ago by the four sovereign Because the Federation has consolidated international
states that make up the Federation. Despite this affairs under the Sovereign, an ostensible peace now
developing identity, the country has already made characterizes Kyougen to her neighbors. However,
strong shows of political and mystical might through shadows of the generational conflicts are beginning to
the Sovereign and her court. Ripples of power are take form.
resonating from the Kyougen Federation, only the gods
can tell whether or not these waves signal an uplifting Divine and primal sources of magical power are
tide or a destructive coil for Danguk. ubiquitous in all eras of the Kyougen history, but
until the rise of Empress Kaguya they were scattered.
To understand Kyougen is to understand the Previously, mages and others gifted with supernatural
four nation-states that form the Federation. They are ability were divided into specializations but Kaguya
Youseki, Inzoku, the Kojima Chain, and Ruumaya. provided it was possible to be both a generalist and
Each one is culturally distinct and traces its magical powerful. As a daughter of all four nations: Ruumaya
roots to different origins. Where Inzoku mages are Inzoku, Youseki, and Kojima, Kaguya and her would-
trained to manipulate magical energy from within the be progeny are the personified essence of a unified
self, Youseki spellcasters commune with supernatural Kyougen. Before being selected as the representative
entities, borrowing their power in exchange for of the Kyougen Federation, Kaguya learned what
evangelism. Kojima mages perform mystical feats using made each nation unique, as she lived in each region
runes and artifacts, while the Ruumaya people channel with her family and ancestors. She shared tables with
the natural energy of the world around them. These aristocrats and peasants, generals and farmers. Her
arcane histories are woven into the culture and politics journey spanned several years; across her adolescence
of each nation, informing the gradual evolution of art, through early adulthood. Prior to Kaguya’s rise to
entertainment, religion, and even warfare. Since the power, war ravaged the land, threatening to tear apart
Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 111
 every nation. It was in this turbulence, Kaguya found Taishi, middle aged, distrusting of Kaguya but acts
peace and shared it with the people. Common folk to support the people of Kyougen, confrontational.
and nobility alike resonated with her demands for a Kaitaki Rau (they/any), newly promoted Youseki
truce. When the leaders of all four nations convened to historian, steadfast in accurately representing events in
select a representative for the Federation, Kaguya was documentation, studious.
unanimously lauded as the only logical choice. There
Inzoku (陰族): The Inzoku region is known
are few who doubt her legitimacy; only fools would
to be home to the oldest cultures and traditions in
assert she is anything other than a masterful sorceress.
Kyougen. It is said that when Izanami descended to
The Federation is named as an homage to historical the realm of shadow, she created creatures of the land.
monikers for the archipelago before the warring period. Inzoku’s doctrines portray all manner of mortal beings
As the most prominent land mass to the east of Danguk as descendants of shadow, not just the beasts, yokai,
and Long Xin, Kyougen was known as the place from and other monstrous beings. Famously, the longest
where the sun would rise each day. During Unification, standing belief of Inzoku historians and scholars is
the four nations adopted his imagery in their name, that all mortals have some remnant of the power from
Kyougen, 暁源, meaning Origin of the Dawn. the realm of shadow. As such spellcasters throughout
Inzoku have been trained to draw from this latent
The Four Nations
power. Inzoku people have spread the knowledge that
The peace of Kyougen has lasted several decades, shadow is not inherently evil, nor is it to be feared, but
due mostly in part to the efforts of the Sovereign’s instead is merely a state of being. “A balance of light and
Court’s attempting to find commonality between the dark is present in all people,” is an Inzoku ideology that
Four Nations while celebrating what makes each one is gaining popularity and acceptance throughout the
distinct. Kyougen Federation.
Youseki (陽席): Youseki is colloquially known Important people: Inzoku Shoko (they/she/he)
as the Celestial Throne, as people of the region head representative of Inzoku in politics, Middle aged,
understand their land to be the original dwelling of penchant for tradition, stoic. Masumasu (he/him)
the Divine Kami from Heaven, the Kotoamatsukami. Inzoku mage teacher, advanced in age, regretful for all
Kyougen’s gods of creation are said to have made their the suffering he contributed to in the world, morose.
home in the region of Youseki, so ancient mortals Yogen Utako, (she/her), Masumasu’s apprentice/
developed temples to commune with them. Various entrepreneur, early adult, talented and knows it,
leaders have claimed to be descended from these divine bubbly.
powers, forming discipleships and later communities
The Kojima Chain: Warm water and tropical
around these claims. Devout followers and evangelists
air alight on obsidian shores in the Kojima chain, but
across history have been granted limited control of the
take care the humidity and haze seem to almost cast a
gods’ powers for their faith. Others unable to gain favor
spell, sapping the energy of all those unprepared for
from the kami have forged deals and contracts with
the heat. The Kojima Chain is the westernmost faction
other supernatural beings known as yokai. Even prior
of the four nations of Kyougen. The Chain extends
to unification, Youseki has had amicable relations with
from the main island closest to Inzoku all the way to
the houses and families of Long Xin due to this divine
the furthest island of the Denjikai Doman. It is also
influence. However, this divine lineage has often come
the most peaceful, having never really engaged in the
into question and even sparked conflict. Today these
centuries of conflict and wars across the Kyougen lands.
lines are recognized with a grain of salt, promoting
Attempts to invade or colonize the isles have always
the idea that leadership be recognized by merit over
found nonviolent resolution. In one recorded attempt,
bloodline.
a warlord needed to retreat because her entire army
Important people: Youseki Taishi (they/he), main defected, exchanging their swords for farming tools. It
branch leader of the Youseki, advanced age, was one of may be due to the temperate climate or the scattered
the original people who signed the Unification Accords, geography of the Chain, but no one can be certain why,
cantankerous. Youseki Misha (she/her), daughter of least of all the Kojima Islanders. What Kojima lacks in

112 Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries

ambition, she makes up for in variety. Out of the four Sovereign Kaguya and her Court
nations of Kyougen, the Kojima region is the most
Behind closed doors; this is the only detail that
varied and colorful of her cultures and practices. Within
people know about the council that resulted in the
the chain, several dialects and subcultures exist as small
Unification Accords. Kaguya and the leaders of Inzoku,
pockets of civilization have developed independent
Youseki, Ruumaya, and Kojima parlayed at the height
of each other. Commerce and trade then brought the
of conflict between the nations. The summit lasted a
individual islands together, and the Kojima Chain
few hours and resulted in the most historic alliance in
became defined by this amalgamation of customs,
Kyougen’s recorded history. More surprising than the
rituals, and cultures.
commitment, was the speed at which it was accepted
Adventure hook: On the southernmost tip of Isshun, across the land. Scholars and historians are still puzzled
a landmass has appeared on the horizon due east. It does over this. While it makes sense for lower and working
not exist on any map and no one has come back from any classes to have abhorred constant war, a significant
attempt to investigate it. Except for one minor lord, who portion of the elites were war mongers and politicians
claims that all of his wealth and fortune came from that who still stood to gain from constant conflict; they
island. might have rebelled against the shift. A popular
Ruumaya: The Ruumaya people inhabit the theory is that the selection of Kaguya as the Sovereign
northernmost regions of the archipelago. The people meant that each nation has equal claim as Kyougen’s
of the region are touted as the most skilled healers and representative.
practitioners of natural magic. Ruumaya are masters of Allegedly, Sovereign Kaguya’s lineage is from all over
agriculture, innovating agroecological practices in ways Kyougen. Her mother was born to a Youseki priestess
unimagined by anyone else in Kyougen. Scholars believe and Ruumaya healer, and her father was the son of a
this is due to the sacred relationship the Ruumaya have Kojima fisher and Inzoku princess. She spent much
with the world around them. Whenever Ruumaya time amongst the people across Kyougen despite the
lands were threatened by invaders from the north and constant war. She cultivated ideologies across borders,
west, spiritual entities of the land known as kamuy, honed mystical abilities taught by several masters, and
protected the people and gave them means of fighting learned the histories of her ancestors. As an adult she
back; reforming entire swaths of terrain to help resist began to influence change, eventually demanding it
invasion, local flora adapting to be used for potions and from the controllers of each nation of Kyougen. Yet,
salves, even granting people the ability to manipulate Kaguya herself does not outwardly present as a person
trees. They treat each aspect of nature as if it holds its capable of amazing power or authority. According
own identity and personality. There are tales of some to few who have communed with her, Kaguya is soft
Ruumaya who transcend conventional meanings of spoken, bemused, and impossibly youthful in visage.
life and death by becoming one with the natural order She often speaks about the moon and is most animated
of the kamuy. The Ruumaya people are proficient at the height of the lunar cycle. Even fewer can claim
hunters and adept at guerilla battle tactics; they taught to have seen her magical prowess, but those who have
Youseki envoys and fighters these skills in exchange witnessed her exercise that power can corroborate her
for goods, protection, and political favor. As a result expertise. While there are those who are dubious about
of this historical partnership Ruumaya and Youseki her intentions, trust in Kaguya is a common thread
relations, even before Unification, were quite strong. shared by the handful who are graced by her presence;
The Ruumaya people have a strong sense of self and trust that she acts selflessly to protect the people of her
identity; more often than not, they see themselves as Federation.
translators of the kamuy wills The Kyougen Federation is both a singular body and
Adventure hook: It is well known that the Sammoku a collection of discrete nation-states. Tumult of war is
Forest sings at twilight. As each leaf is different, so is the fading to memory under the Unification Accords, put
melody. Maiko, a Ruumaya girl, fears that the music at forth by the leaders of Inzoku, Youseki, Ruumaya, and
the end of each day has been growing sadder and sadder. the Kojima Chain. The collective effort to maintain the
She knows something is wrong, but does not know how momentum of growth of the country and peace
to help.
Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 113
 between the nations is known as the Sovereign’s be among the people. Her path across the Kyougen
Court; they serve as advisors to the Federation’s landscape has been transformed into an expressway for
representative, Kaguya. Hand picked by the Sovereign all to travel, known as the Silver Road.
herself, each member of the Court has been tasked Adventure hook: Despite her stature, there are
with forwarding the identity of Kyougen and aiding those who speculate that Kaguya is not the benevolent
in affairs of commerce and politics with Danguk and leader that she has been propped up to be. Some believe
Long Xin. They mostly operate out of a small estate in she somehow forced the Unification Accords upon the
the Kojima Chain, which Kaguya claims is the middle leaders of the four nation-states and has been keeping
point between the lowest part of Takamagahara and the people of Kyougen under a spell for the past 70 years.
the entrance to Yomi. Because of her providential past, Others dismiss these rumors as the mere ravings of war
it is all too easy to deify Kaguya and her court and profiteers of a generation past. Nonetheless, the theories
over the past 70 years little has been done to curb this are spreading across the Federation, catching like fire...
perception. For better or worse, immense clout has
been amassed within the Sovereign’s Court. Oldest Rivalries and Creation of Kyougen
Currently, the Sovereign’s Court is composed of Inzoku and Youseki are the two oldest families
four individuals, though there have been as many as and regions of the Kyougen Federation. For as long
seven at one point. A veil of mystery surrounds the as there has been recorded history, there has been
Court’s process, but their identities are widely known. conflict between the two families. The legends say that
they were once a unified clan, a collection of demigod
Inzoku Kota (he/him) is the son of Inzoku children beneath the House of the Divine Kami, the
Shoko. The newest addition to the Sovereign Kotoamatsukami. Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-
Court, many believed his high-born lineage is Mikoto were two of these children who lived together
the reason for his appointment. However, Kota in peace, blessed each day with bountiful gifts from
is insightful and earnest. Most information and Heaven and shaping the earth as they saw fit. Until
correspondence from the Court comes from him. one day a terrible storm sundered the sky and shook
Jouyou Hana (they/she/he) aides in the land; this is known as Ooarashi (大嵐) The Great
correspondence to political officials alongside Storm and the event where historical records diverge.
Kota. Especially with Danguk affairs. Despite According to Youseki scriptures, Izanami
their expertise, they are often criticized for their relinquished her divinity and passed it on to Kagu-
direct communication and lack of decorum. tsuchi, the Bringer of Fire, before leaving the Divine
Hana harbors a beastly secret. Kami to perish in the shadow realm, Yomi. Angry that
Izanami would now one day die, Izanagi tore apart
Fuu (they/them) is a scholar hailing from the iciest
the clouds and shouted into the sky. This act was the
regions of Ruumaya. Fuu does not come from
Ooarashi in the Youseki version of the story. In his rage,
any reputable kinship, but instead is well-read and
Izanagi struck the Flame Incarnate, who splintered
touts a near perfect memory even in her old age.
into dozens of smaller beings. These beings, born from
Kagami (she/her) is the youngest and most Kagu-tsuchi, were mortal and became the first people to
mysterious of the four in the Court. She bears a inhabit the land that would later become Kyougen. The
passing resemblance to Kaguya, leading some to region beneath the House of the Divine Kami would
believe that she is the Sovereign’s sister or even later be called Youseki, meaning Heaven’s Seat. The
daughter. No one knows for sure. people who lived in the region adopted the moniker as
their family name.
Together, Kaguya and her Court correspond with
Long Xin and Danguk, sharing magical knowledge, The Inzoku recounting of The Great Storm
currying political favor, and advancing the perception is similar, but key differences give rise to two very
of Kyougen. Within the Federation, they facilitate opposing factions. Inzoku history notes that Izanami
councils for commerce and travel. Every few years had gone to Yomi, not to die, but to summon Kagu-
Kaguya makes a pilgrimage across her country to tsuchi in hopes that their fire would bring warmth and

114 Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries

light to the realm of shadow. Knowing that Izanagi and Inzoku came to a momentary truce. A young
would try to stop her, Izanami orchestrated Ooarashi Youseki leader at the time, General Botara Shin,
by setting off great explosions of light and noise in the believed that it would be a perfect time to expand his
sky to distract him as she descended to Yomi. However, territory, secure resource streams, and boost military
Izanami did not fully understand the magic of Yomi, advantage once the ongoing conflict with Inzoku flared
it behaved in ways unexpected to her. Kagu-tsuchi was up again. Full of confidence and ambition, Shin set
consumed upon creation as their light melded with the his eyes on Danguk, hoping to eventually take parts of
darkness of the realm and gave rise to mortal creatures. Long Xin under Youseki control. In a series of battles
Izanami decided to remain in Yomi to ferry these beings that would later become known as Shin’s Gambit in
of light and dark to the land. The region flourishing Kyougen memory, Youseki and allied Ruumaya generals
with life became known as Inzoku, as did the people with additional funding from Kojima financiers
who were children of Izanami. invaded Danguk territories.
The two great clans Inzoku and Youseki never found Shin’s forces were met with great resistance, finding
common ground, each one believing they were the advancement into larger cities difficult as Danguk war
stewards of the land determined by their proximity mages prevented widespread losses. Danguk stalled the
to the celestial origins. Even in the best of times, or invasion long enough for the Inzoku to catch wind of
during peaceful engagements, their squabbles and the Youseki movement. Inzoku Ikemi sent emissaries
semantic disagreements soured commerce and political offering aid by sending her warriors and battle sorcerers,
exchanges, often sparking violent conflict. Reasonable but King Seonghyo refused. They were not interested
heads have attempted lasting agreements, but within in fighting a proxy war and turning their land into a
the rivalry, a truce is always fleeting. These days, Youseki battlefield of the Inzoku and Youseki rivalry. General
and Inzoku leadership are less concerned about conflicts Shin pulled his armies out of Danguk upon hearing
on border regions between their two territories, but Ikemi was mobilizing upon the Morokawa, a Youseki-
disagreements about their ancient histories make for Inzoku border river. Shin’s Gambit failed in all of its
some colorful diplomacy. goals, only finding another enemy in Danguk. The
Adventure Hook: The Kojiki is a myth amongst general, Botara Shin, was stripped of all accolades
both the Youseki and Inzoku, it is said to be the journal of and would pass away greatly shamed. His reputation
Ame-no-Minakanushi, the Central Master of the Divine would serve as a warning to future leaders in Youseki
Kami, containing a perfect record of all of history and history. It has been argued that Youseki has been on
truth. A curator claims to have found the Kojiki, and is the defensive in their conflict with Inzoku ever since.
requesting transport across the Silver Road to bring it to Scholars posit that this paved the way for Unification,
Sovereign Kaguya. There have been falsehoods about the as Youseki would deign to mitigate further failings. As
Kojiki before, but this instance feels different... for Danguk, Shin’s Gambit set relations with Kyougen
back several decades, if not centuries. Though Kyougen
Invasion of Danguk claims the responsibility of the invasion lies solely in
The historical tapestries of Kyougen are shared Shin’s hands, Danguk demands culpability from all
and interwoven with those of Danguk and far before domains that played a role in the conflagration. Those
the Unification accords were ever dreamt of. Youseki, who have inherited Shin’s imperial ambitions, believing
Inzoku, Ruumaya, and the Kojima Chain each had his methods to be flawed but his vision laudable, wage
their own interactions with Danguk, in particular one smaller wars over trade routes and diplomacy against
that stands out in more recent memory has colored how Danguk and Long Xin.
Unification has been perceived. Adventure hook: Botara Shin’s legacy is infamous,
Danguk has historically participated in amicable it serves as a warning to individuals stepping into
relations with Inzoku and Kojima merchants. Despite positions of power. However, small contingencies of clerics
this the Kyougen Unification has been met with and paladins have left their stations to don the Botara
tenuous apprehension by Danguk officials. 100 years crest. There is a rumor that these zealots are fomenting
prior to the ratification, the conflict between Youseki an insurgency...

Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 115

 The Fifth Nation make the long journey to Denjikai are often surprised
at just how distinct the Domain can be. Few elements
Unification brought an end to violent conflict in
from the four nations of the Federation are present
Kyougen, the resulting peace brought on a wave of
in the Denjikai culture. While respect for Sovereign
ideological and cultural upheaval. Free travel between
Kaguya is present amongst the local population, there is
nations with little fear of trespass or consequence
more reverence for the royal family. The most pervasive
allowed art and literature to spread from the frosted
theory why Denjikai is so distinct is that Uchinaa is so
mountains of Ruumaya to the tropical shores of the
much closer in proximity to Long Xin, than the rest of
Kojima Chain, and everywhere in between. Some of
Kyougen. The journey alone takes special naval charter
the most tangible changes can be found in the food
for most people, teleportation circles being reserved for
and drink all over Kyougen. Traditional dishes have
the most skilled of mages or affluent politicians. This
incorporated flavors and ingredients from as far as
has resulted in Denjikai being far more welcoming to
Danguk and Long Xin. Magical techniques are melding
political and cultural attitudes in direct opposition to
together, forming new schools of arcane manipulation.
Kyougen tendencies.
Textiles in Inzoku have started to incorporate the
geometric designs popular in Kojima, and using fabric Adventure Hook: The Denjikai people do not have a
materials more common in Ruumaya have changed formalized religion, most ritualistic practices pay respect
fashion trends. Self expression mediums, like tattoos to natural phenomena like the sea or summer. Few are
or hair, are now in vogue. Despite the accelerating starting to adopt religious practices from Youseki clerics.
evolution of the Kyougen identity, subregions of However, Kyougen visitors are starting to hear rumors
Kyougen have been slow, or even resistant, to change; of clandestine gatherings surrounding a powerful entity
none more apparent than the Denjikai Domain. that lives deep in the ocean.
The Denjikai (電地海) Domain is a relatively A Calm Surface Betrays Turbulent Waters
tiny collection of islands southeast of Isshun, the largest A phrase has been popping up every now and then
island in the Kojima Chain. The cluster is centered in Kyougen, “A calm surface betrays turbulent waters.”
around a main island called Uchinaa, though conflation This string of words is mysterious to most who hear
between Uchinaa and Denjikai is common even it, almost ominous, especially to those who have
amongst local inhabitants of the island. The people something to hide. It is not presented as a threat, but
of the domain have a special relationship with the more as a matter of fact by those who utter it; people
ocean that connects them. Masters of the tides and the from all walks of life, merchants, teachers, sailors, the
weather, voyagers have an uncanny ability to navigate, occasional noble. It is a calling card for denizens within
explore, and inhabit the water. Many Denjikai people Kyougen courts, markets, schools, fields, and temples
become shipwrights, sailors, or even pirates. Despite who are spies for the Onigashima Syndicate.
its small size, the domain has major influences on the
surrounding states. Its inclusion status in the Kyougen To those in Kyougen who know of it, the
Federation depends on who you ask. According to Onigashima Syndicate is a group of scattered criminal
the Danguk and Long Xin governments, Denjikai is cells throughout the country, the remnants of a
its own separate kingdom, independent of Kyougen defunct criminal organization. Nearly 60 years ago, the
with its own leading force, the royal Houryu (封竜) Onigashima Syndicate was a formidable pirate guild
family. However, the four nations of the Kyougen that operated out of Mudo, a small island territory
Federation recognize the cluster as a subregion of the neutral to both Kyougen and Danguk. That is until
Kojima Chain. The royal family of the domain has Seongdeok, the king of Danguk at the time, ordered
taken advantage of the misconception, and further the pirate cell be snuffed out. An overwhelming arcane
obfuscated the truth. They only recognize their force was launched at Mudo. Kyougen historians would
involvement in the Federation, when convenient or later identify this event as Seongdeok’s Inferno, as
politically advantageous. The true intention of the the blasts had been taken as a sign of aggression. The
Denjikai Domain is unknown to anyone outside the Onigashima Syndicate was all but wiped out.
innermost circles. Kyougen emissaries and tourists who Today, small-time captured crooks, impostor mage

116 Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries

rings, and dissolved bandit camps have been tied to the The most influential ally to the Syndicate comes in the
Syndicate, but with each passing year the frequency of form of the Denjikai queen, Houryu Ukiyaka. It is clear
incidents tied to Onigashima has increased. The only that Queen Ukiyaka’s opinion of Kaguya is strained
people who seem alarmed by this growth are those at best as her Domain is largely unrecognized within
directly impacted by Syndicate activity with families Kyougen. She gives the Onigashima pirates asylum
and friends whose loved ones may have joined the ranks in Uchinaa and unfettered access to her waters. In
of Onigashima. They entice misfits, loners, and deviants exchange the Syndicate provides protection for Denjikai
with the potential of glory or riches; sometimes even people and feeds darker secrets gathered about Kyougen
an errant aristocrat or security official is lured from politics to the Queen.
their station by the promise of freedom. The most All of this is happening under the noses of the
egregious crimes of the Onigashima Syndicate include Sovereign Court and other officials in Kyougen as they
toll scams along the roads in Inzoku, embezzlement are preoccupied with developing the identity of the
of Youseki temple funds, or even their signature acts unified nation. The time for the Onigashima Syndicate
of piracy along the shores of the Kojima Chain. These to make their next move is approaching. A calm surface
transgressions are sporadic, giving the impression that betrays turbulent waters.
the Syndicate is disorganized. Petty thieves have been
known to take their name to incite fear or intimidate Fashion in Kyougen
victims who do not know better. It is hard to know just Historically, there have not been very many avenues
how widespread the Onigashima Syndicate is or who of self expression through fashion in Kyougen. Of
commands them. This is by design. course jewelry, make-up and wardrobe were the most
The grand secret of the Onigashima Syndicate common ways of changing one’s appearance, but only
in Kyougen is that they are more than a ramshackle the affluent had access to fashion trends. At most, the
series of gangs. The web of Onigashima operatives and working class could muster a special color of textile or
contacts are present throughout the country and they embroidered pattern on practical wear. However, once
have long memories. The most impactful members the Unification Accords were ratified, new elements
ingrained themselves in all levels of society and function began to weave their way into Kyougen aesthetics, some
with measured and discreet care. Lower ranking combining together to form new fashion trends. As
operatives are tasked with gathering information and more artisan and government professions develop, the
maintaining a façade of weakness.These spies feed desire to display wealth and personality outshined the
information and secrets through their network to one need for practical wear, such as garbs designed solely for
person, Sekiguchi Saemontaro. Saemontaro’s goal was combat. In the decades since Unification, the Kyougen
to create an independent nation that unites people from fashion industry bloomed.
all lands, Danguk and Long Xin included. However,
after near destruction at Seongdeok’s Inferno, it is Wardrobe
unclear even to his followers what he is planning. Those Many of Kyougen’s textiles and clothing styles are
who have joined the Onigashima are people who view both adapted, but distinct from Long Xin and Danguk.
Kyougen as a failure, antithetical to peace. These are In particular, the kimono and yukata have been
people who wish to shed nationalism and belong to no compared to Long Xin’s longfu and Danguk’s hanbok.
country. Kimono and yukata are made of multiple pieces of
Despite a hazy purpose, Sekiguchi Saemontaro fabric sewn together to form a T-shape wrapped
commands a loyal retinue. While he handles the around the body. The kimono is lined and layered
bigger picture, the leader of the Syndicate delegates with multiple fabrics, while the yukata is a single layer
most activity to two lieutenants, Barubasu, a former of fabric, usually cotton. Both can be embroidered or
military general for a minor Youseki house prior to dyed to the wearer’s taste or function, and accessorized
Unification and Ritako, a witch strategist who despises with belts or pins. One thing that sets the kimono and
the Sovereign, Kaguya. These two have secured various yukata apart from the hanfu and hanbok is the specific
ports and trade routes in Kyougen for Onigashima fit. Where the hanfu or hanbok are wide around the
territory and have recruited key mages and shamans. legs, the Kyougen localizations are generally tighter and

Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 117

 somewhat restrict movement. a rite of passage or coming of age gift. Some hajitiya,
Technically speaking, the yukata is a lighter form of tattoo artists specialized in hajichi, imbue protective
kimono, but colloquially they are distinct. Yukata are magic into their designs.
more common and practical. It is less typical to find Appendix:
yukata with elaborate patterns or colors since yukata
can be used for work, leisure, or ceremony. They tend Locations
to be worn in one or two pieces and can vary in material • Kyougen (暁源): lit. Origin of the Dawn
depending on the season they are made for. Kimono
• Youseki (陽席)
on the other hand are usually more elaborate and worn
to flaunt wealth or personality. These beautiful pieces ° Kintaku-ji (金卓寺) lit. Gold
are primarily made of silk and feature all manner of Altar Temple - The largest temple
colors and patterns. Popular themes found on kimono in Kyougen
are floral designs, pastoral scenes, or family crests. Since • Inzoku (陰族)
Unification, patterns that are reminiscent of Ruumaya ° Yomotsu Hirasaka (黄泉平坂):
and Kojima fashion have been adapted into modern The entrance to Yomi
kimono styles found in Inzoku and Youseki. • Kojima Chain (小島連鎖)
Footwear °Isshun - The main island in the
Kojima Chain
A specific marker of social class and creed is • Ruumaya
footwear. Geta are wooden platform sandals and the
most common footwear. Cooks would wear geta with ° Sammoku Forest - The largest
high elevation to avoid stepping directly on fallen woodlands of the Ruumaya region
scraps, rice farmers would wear low and wide geta to • Denjikai (電地海) Domain
prevent sinking into the mud of rice paddies. Higher °Uchinaa - The main island of the
up the social ladder, it is likely to see geta constructed Danjikai Domain
with higher quality wood, painted with imagery and • Takamagahara (高天原): High Heavenly
patterns, and finished in lacquer. Gaining popularity Plane
among fishers, hunters, farmers, and traveling • Ashihara no Nakatsukuni: (葦原の中
merchants are salmon-skin boots of Ruumaya origin つ国) lit. Central Land of Reed Beds. The
called cepker. These boots provide grippiness as the Material Plane
material is slip-resistant after tanning. They also provide
decent insulation for colder temperatures, especially • Yomi (黄泉): Realm of Shadow
when complemented with plant or animal fibers. Notable NPCs
Tattoos • Kaguya (she/any) Sovereign representative
of Kyougen
Once a major taboo, tattoos have become popular in
Kyougen, especially amongst the younger generations • Youseki Taishi (they/he), current main
that were born after Unification. While it is still very branch leader of the Youseki people
much a young art form with new styles and techniques • Inzoku Shoko (they/she/he) head
constantly emerging, traditional techniques from the representative of Inzoku in politics
Denjikai Domain are the most in vogue. Known as • Sekiguchi Saemontaro (he/him) leader and
hajichi, the tattoo practice involves inking the back of creator of the Onigashima Syndicate
one’s hands, fingers, and knuckles with patterns and
symbols. These tattoos are mostly found on women, • Barubasu (he/him) Onigashima lieutenant
but it is not unheard of for hajichi to be found on • Ritako (she/her) Onigashima spymaster in
people of all genders. This is because the artform Kyougen
of hajichi began as a tactic to deter pirates from • Houryu Ukiyaka (she/her) Queen of the
kidnapping young women, but it soon evolved into the Denjikai Domain
118 Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries
LONG XIN to the very fabric of Danguk’s magic itself. The
relationship between Long Xin and Danguk has always
By Connie Chang
been fraught -- shattered by wars and mended with
Long Xin, the Pearl of Earth and Mirror of Heaven,
treaties before being shattered all over again.
is Danguk’s vast and ancient neighbor to the north.
A series of hereditary dynasties has ruled Long Xin Like Danguk, Long Xin is a kingdom of magic,
continuously for over seven thousand years; as long as monsters, and mages. Although the people of both
Danguk has been Danguk, so has Long Xin been Long nations share the same material and spiritual realms, the
Xin. Although “Long Xin” refers to the country as a sorcerers of Long Xin conceptualize Iseung, Jeoseung,
whole, its boundaries have changed innumerable times and Gucheon in very different ways. The material plane
across the centuries as old rulers die, new rulers ascend, is known as Tianxia; the heavenly realm is Tiantang;
and northern invaders seize control. The Throne of and the ghostly dominion where departed souls go is
Jade and Bone has seen many monarchs in its time -- Diyu. Broadly speaking, Long Xin worships many of
some worthy and noble, others cowardly and meek, and the same gods as Danguk, albeit under different names,
others stranger and fiercer still. Wizard-queens, god- but each has its own exclusive gods as well -- deities
kings, and even immortal liches have perched upon the uniquely embroiled in their particular kingdoms’
Throne, each with their particular decrees and edicts, affairs. For instance, Dangun and Hwanung are unique
but one thing always remains the same: a vested interest to Danguk, whereas the Three Pure Ones are unique
in Danguk. to Long Xin.
How that interest in Danguk plays out depends on Magic manifests in Long Xin in both similar and
the century, the ruler, the political climate; the social different ways to the way it manifests in Danguk.
mores, the peasantry, the prevailing attitudes; and, of Similarities include a focus on a wide-ranging pantheon
course, signs and omens from the gods. However, more of gods and immortals, many of whom compete with
often than not, the leaders of Long Xin seek to use each other for mortal favor and divine power; a realm
Danguk to elevate their own holdings. Nothing escapes ravaged by hungry ghosts and vicious monsters; and
exploitation, from Danguk’s people and resources the ability for mortals to harness spiritual power for

Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 119

 their own goals. However, there are some poignant Diplomatic Relations
differences, too. In Long Xin, the main form of magic
At first glance, current relations between Long Xin
is necromancy: the essence of life and death. Those
and Danguk appear to be the best they’ve been in years
who can harness necromancy are known as adepts,
-- maybe even decades. There is no war. Trade flows
mages, necromancers, or -- a term native to Long Xin
freely, unrestricted by embargoes, high tariffs, or other
-- cultivators.
sanctions. The major ports on Long Xin’s southern
Cultivators tend to use a favored weapon, wield shores are open to all. There are even whispers of a
a divine focus (typically a musical instrument like high-profile wedding in the works: an arranged union
a guzheng, flute, bell, or drum), and specialize in a between Princess Huo Zhiyang, the Daughter of the
particular type of necromancy. Some are clerics who Second Consort of the Immortal Emperor, and Lord
heal grievous wounds by murmuring holy sutras; others Gok Byeong-ho, the scion of a powerful military
are demonic grandmasters who summon dark spirits family in Danguk. Nobles on both sides are excited
and control void energy; still others are conduits of and optimistic about the marriage; if it goes through,
raw natural power who can conjure ice, flame, and historical frictions between the two countries will lower
lightning. Cultivators that achieve the pinnacle of their ugly heads and mark the new age of an era of
necromancy are called Zhenren. Zhenren gain a near- prosperity for both Long Xin and Danguk.
permanent state of immortality where they rule until
Diplomacy and dreams aside, underneath this
either overthrown or they decide to ascend beyond their
sanguine surface, relations between Long Xin and
mortal vessel into divinity. There are many conflicting
Danguk are more fraught than they appear. Long
theories about how to ascend to this status, but the true
Xin is currently ruled by Emperor Zhu Huya of the
texts are lost to the ravages of time: burned during times
Zhu Dynasty: a temperamental, vain, and paranoid
of war, destroyed by shamans seeking to cleanse the
mage-king. Emperor Zhu’s erratic reign left the
mortal world of such dangerous knowledge, or hoarded
peasantry destitute while allowing schemers in the
by cults in secret, heavily guarded places.
upper echelons to consolidate power. As Huya indulges
Throughout the millennia, these kingdoms cross- paranoid fantasies, conspirators of every level expand
pollinated in terms of religion, culture, philosophy, their influence within the royal courts of Guxue, the
language, art, and magic. Nothing is ever static austere and decadent capital of Long Xin. The rich and
between Long Xin and Danguk. Relations, knowledge, powerful of Danguk are aware of Long Xin’s troubles
philosophies, and even each country’s understandings and some even seek to exploit this unstable time for
of their own gods and the physical and spiritual realms their own gain, brokering deals with ambitious agents
that surround them are ever-changing. on the northern shore willing to look the other way --
However, one constant persists: while the powerful for the right price, of course.
of Long Xin skirmish with the powerful of Danguk, the The realm also incubates a burgeoning peasant
common people on both sides suffer. As the centuries rebellion. For the past hundred years, the common
turn onward, their wheels greased by the blood of the people of Long Xin have been restricted from studying
powerless, the peasants remember; they grieve; and they magic -- an illegal act enforced by royal decrees from
learn. Perhaps one day, the people of Long Xin and the various emperors. In Long Xin, magical secrets are
people of Danguk will realize that they have more in jealously guarded by monasteries, cults, and imperial
common with each other than they do with the elites of sects -- the common people almost never get to wield
their homes. Perhaps one day, that realization will spark them. Only four classes of people are allowed to wield
a people’s rebellion across borders, across nations, and magic: nobles who are born into their station; scholars
across oceans teeming with dragon-gods. And perhaps who attain their station through rigorous study; artists
one day, that rebellion that will change everything. who have gained the patronage of a noble or scholar;
and cultivators, who earn the privilege to wield magic
by serving the Throne of Jade and Bone. Regular folk
-- farmers, fishers, merchants -- are barred from even
reading about magic, if they know how to read at all.

120 Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries

This right is restricted to the most privileged of nobles. out to rot in a dirty prison for years, or even executed
This inequitable proportioning of magic, wealth, publicly as a show of force. Zhu Huya sees enemies
food, luxury, and power has been a slow trickle of water around every corner of the royal palace and spends most
against a rock of long-suffering peasants, and now, the of his days cooped up inside his (considerable) private
peasants will no longer suffer. Many peasant rebellions quarters, receiving reports through crevices in the doors
have risen in the past but failed due to their stark and conducting meetings with folding paper walls
disparity in power against the ruthless mages of the between all attendees.
royal court. But now, with science and magic advancing To satiate his paranoia and achieve the greatness he
within and outside Long Xin’s borders, black markets believes is owed to him, Zhu Huya is intent on attaining
flourish with new, smuggled magical texts and items. lichdom. To become a lich, Huya requires both a gem
Peasants can access through less than reputable channels pure, durable, and rare enough to house his soul and
advanced weaponry including firearms. Understanding secret knowledge of the profane, long-lost ritual that
this, rebel leaders side with pirates and sympathetic will tear his soul from his body. Huya believes that
diplomats to maintain their ties to supporters of their becoming a Zhenren can be attained through lichdom,
cause outside the country. Meanwhile, the country’s keeping his soul inside the gem, known to cultivators
nobles adopt protectionist stances and politically and as a baoshi. Unfortunately for Huya, rulers under the
economically pressure their neighbors to aid in crushing previous Yuan Dynasty’s regime burned many of these
these communications. texts for sacrilege against the heavens; Zhu Ming herself
Such internal strife ensures Long Xin and Danguk tried to recover some of this knowledge and failed.
teeter on the edge of a scimitar; any disturbance from To attain both the gem and the ritual, Huya turns his
any direction might tip relations over to open hostility, attention towards Danguk -- where dark spirits run
closed borders, or even outright war. As daring amok and undead forces conspire.
adventurers probe deeper into the connections between Consort Wang Biaoxi (she/her). Wang Biaoxi
these two powerful kingdoms, dark secrets might come is Zhu Huya’s third consort, a low-ranking romantic
spilling out -- secrets of vicious ambition, forbidden companion to the emperor, mostly overlooked in
love, paranoid conspiracy, and a country one lit match the imperial palace… and the true ruler of Long Xin.
away from an explosion of rebellion. Biaoxi’s goal is to attain lichdom for herself, kill Huya,
seize the Jade Throne, and remake Long Xin into an
Notable NPCs egalitarian society. Until then, she won’t overplay her
hand, though her heart aches for the long-suffering
Emperor Zhu Huya (he/him). Zhu Huya,
commoners of Long Xin. For months, Biaoxi
Immortal Son of the Sky, Righteous Fist of the
cultivated the emperor’s fear of death to a fever pitch
Heavenly Court and the First Death-Killer, is the
-- successfully.
current ruler of Long Xin. Huya is the great-grandson
of Zhu Ming, the legendary founder of the Zhu A prodigiously intelligent woman, Biaoxi was the
Dynasty and the woman-king who led a successful daughter of a misogynistic imperial exam administrator
rebellion against the preceding Yuan Dynasty. The who refused to let his only daughter take the test and
emperor’s great-grandmother had been a tempered thus pursue her station in life, instead focusing on the
ruler: fearsome but not unreasonable; strict but gentle; future of his sons. Biaoxi secretly took mock exams
beloved by nobility and peasantry alike. Many elders since she was nine and never achieved anything below
remember Zhu Ming’s reign with bittersweet fondness, a perfect score. Biaoxi’s genius was disregarded from a
for her great-grandson is nothing like her. young age -- a fact that frustrated her as a child, but now
suits her as a political maneuverer.
Zhu Huya is extremely unpopular. Terrified of losing
power and obsessed with cheating death, the current Four years ago, Biaoxi found employment in the
emperor of Long Xin is an eccentric man. Huya is imperial palace as an exam tutor, a gloryless job that,
deeply superstitious and paranoid of spies and assassins. coupled with her ruthlessly average looks, made her all
One day, a loyal adviser might be lavished with praise, but invisible to the court. Over the years, she carefully
gifts, and consorts; the next, she might be thrown studied the emperor as she might as an exam topic;

Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 121

 documenting his paranoia, his fear of death, and his This display of temper, which is not unusual from
desperation for greatness. Biaoxi orchestrated romantic the highly expressive and headstrong princess, did not
chance meetings that turned into dates that turned into dissuade the Gok family from proceeding with the
intimate nights. And so, the emperor fell in love -- a marriage. A wedding date was set for a year after and
deeper, more passionate love even than the one he had Zhiyang has been dreading it since.
for his wife and queen. No one knows that during that fateful week, Princess
If Biaoxi asked, he would gladly replace his queen Huo met Lady Cha Seo-yoon, the sellsword bodyguard
with her -- but she prefers it this way. It’s easier to to Lord Gok Byeong-ho. Unlike Lord Gok, Lady Cha
control men from the shadows. Not a single edict had not been born into nobility; she worked her way up
is passed, military move made, or royal intervention from a commoner’s rank through her mastery over the
bestowed without Biaoxi’s approval or explicit blade and spiritual magic. The two fell in love and have
suggestion; the emperor always consults her first, and kept in contact since through coded letters and secret
takes her word more seriously than that of his oldest, missives. As the date of the wedding looms ever closer,
closest advisers. Biaoxi is careful about her power, Princess Huo Zhiyang grows desperate, longing for a
hiding it as one might an assassin’s blade. None but way out of her royal life but not knowing how to attain
herself and the emperor knows the true depth of their freedom without hurting her mother -- or Long Xin.
relationship, though there are several in the court who Lord Gok Byeong-ho (he/him). Lord Gok
suspect… Byeong-ho is the scion of a powerful military family
Princess Huo Zhiyang (she/her). Huo Zhiyang is in Danguk. Trained from birth to be an efficient killer
the daughter of Huo Ranxiao, the second consort of and feared leader, Byeong-ho quickly rose through the
the Immortal Emperor. Zhiyang takes after her mother ranks of Danguk’s navy, earning the title of Lieutenant
in almost every way: both women are stunningly Commander by the time he was seventeen. By that
beautiful, sick of being cooped up in the royal palace time, Byeong-ho had killed more people than he could
of Guxue, and long for a more exciting life. However, count on two hands. Most were pirates, though some
there are two crucial differences. One: Ranxiao’s were fellow naval officers found guilty of sedition or
definition of a more exciting life is one where she’s the desertion. Byeong-ho is a young adult now, and that
first consort; that is, the actual wife of the emperor and death toll has only grown somewhere into the high
first in line to become mother to the new ruler should dozens. He lost count after fifty.
he meet his untimely demise. Zhiyang’s definition of a As an admiral in the navy, Byeong-ho’s mother,
more exciting life involves swords, magic, and monsters Lady Gok Joo-Eun, never offered her son kindness,
-- adventurous touchstones she has been denied her patience, or the ability to make his own decisions about
entire life within the cushy, well-protected bubble of his future. Byeong-ho was forced to be the perfect son
the palace. The second crucial difference is that Ranxiao by becoming the perfect killer. Displays of emotion
thinks that marrying her daughter off to Lord Gok were seen as weakness and summarily punished,
Byeong-ho is the best way to advance their station. either by his mother when he was a child, or by his
Zhiyang doesn’t. commanding officers in the navy. His engagement to
Zhiyang met her husband-to-be exactly one time and Princess Huo Zhiyang means nothing to him beyond a
has hated him since. The meeting occurred half a year duty he will assume like any other. However, interacting
ago when the parents of the to-be-weds met on neutral with the animated, fiery, and expressive Zhiyang created
ground, an open port in the Kyougen, to discuss details confusing feelings inside Byeong-ho -- feelings he never
and secretly probe for weaknesses. Surrounded by the experienced before.
rushing waters of the ocean, Zhiyang met Byeong- Byeong-ho has a warped view of reality: deep down,
ho for the first time… and then Byeong-ho made a he longs for intimacy and compassion, but he doesn’t
comment about death and war that was, in the princess’ know how to attain either of those things. He feels
mind, grotesque and cruel. Scared and disgusted, that he is worthless outside his military gifts. Although
Zhiyang stormed away from her husband-to-be and Byeong-ho is a high-ranking officer with superb
locked herself in her quarters for the rest of the week. prospects, he feels a gnawing emptiness and struggles to

122 Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries

connect with other people. His blank and intense way day rule Long Xin from the shadows as a mastermind
of talking with others has earned him the nickname puppeteer.
of the “living ghost,” a moniker that his subordinates Ye Xin grew up on the streets of Yucheng, a coastal
whisper when he’s not around. town in a southern province of Long Xin. Though
Lady Cha Seo-yoon (they/she). Cha Seo-yoon is mediocre, they excelled in sniffing out what people
Byeong-ho’s personal bodyguard, a post she earned as really wanted. They used their uncanny insight to
a capable mercenary in Danguk. A tall and imposing improve their station in life until they seized a post in
warrior, Seo-yoon has a crude sense of humor, a strong the navy -- one of the few ways commoners in Long
craving for alcohol, and an even stronger craving for Xin can elevate their standing. Climbing the chain of
pretty women. Despite their playboy attitude toward command was difficult for Ye Xin, as earlier ranks are
love and romance, they are a dependable fighter, helping earned through combat and skill, but it was smooth
various mudang clans and warrior tribes across Danguk sailing as soon as Ye Xin overcame those initial hurdles.
settle their problems with monsters and men alike. Over the years, Ye Xin amassed a vast and reliable
However, Seo-yoon’s penchant for getting into trouble network of informants: orphans who listen for street-
has also created a financial headache for themself: after level rumors; cooks, maids, and servants who traverse
a few too many nights drinking and gambling, they are the royal courts, the perfect flies on the wall ignored
now deeply in debt. Fortunately, Seo-yoon secured a by the rich and powerful; sex workers who glean dark
lucrative gig from Admiral Gok Joo-Eun: to protect her secrets from loose-lipped nobles clouded by lust; and
son in the months leading up to his wedding in return criminal contacts who can smell trouble brewing before
for complete financial assurance. anyone else. As a result, Ye Xin has learned that the
Soo-yeon quickly grew bored of this assignment emperor is secretly looking to become a Zhenren-- a real
as she stood outside closed doors, staring at servants Zhenren, not the title-only “Immortal Son of the Sky”
passing by with delicious-smelling food she wasn’t rubbish that previous rulers of Long Xin settled for. Ye
allowed to eat. Without any time to herself, she couldn’t Xin also knows that Emperor Zhu is paranoid, self-
leave her dreary post by Byeong-ho’s side. Only her obsessed, and terrified of death.
promised payout motivated her as she daydreamed of Ye Xin maneuvered himself into leading the
fighting monsters, wrestling with ghouls, or flirting pushback against smuggling operations between Long
with pretty girls in the nearest run-down tavern. All of Xin and Danguk. Ye Xin has it on good authority that
this changed when Seo-yoon accompanied the Goks to the emperor is waiting on a specific shipment of…
the Kyougen… and met Princess Huo Zhiyang. At first, something, though he doesn’t know what. They hope
the princess was annoyed by Seo-yoon: in her eyes, they to collaborate with the Nightjar to uncover the truth
were boorish, crass, and uncultured. But as the week behind the emperor’s ploys and blackmail the most
went on, Seo-yoon grew on Zhiyang -- especially as Seo- powerful man in Long Xin.
yoon revealed a softer side. The two fell in love and kept
in touch after they left the Kyougen. Shuyun (they/them). Shuyun is the leader of
the Peasant Mages, a growing people’s rebellion
Seo-yoon knows she’s tempting fate by romancing headquartered in Yucheng, a seaside town on the
her client’s betrothed behind his back, but she can’t southern coastline of Long Xin. As the fourth child of a
help it. She’s always made bad decisions -- that’s poor fishmonger, Shuyun’s parents and siblings starved
nothing new -- but loving Zhiyang might be the first to death along with the rest of their now-forgotten
good decision she’s ever made. This time, her actions village when their provincial lord provoked the ire of a
might hurt someone she loves. sea spirit by overfishing. To punish his greed, the spirit
Captain Ye Xin (he/they). Ye Xin is a middle- cursed the seas surrounding Yucheng to grow fallow.
ranking officer in the Long Xin navy with bigger This tragedy radicalized an already angry Shuyun, who
dreams than his competence allows him to bite off… spent their entire life watching the powerful abuse their
for now. Though Ye Xin isn’t much of a fighter, a positions without consequence while the powerless
cultivator, a scholar, a mage, or even a leader, he is suffered.
good at something: schmoozing. He hopes to one

Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 123

 Shuyun is an intelligent and compassionate leader The Nightjar (xe/xem). The Nightjar is a well-
and a terrifyingly powerful cultivator. After losing their connected smuggler of all manner of illicit goods
entire village and on the brink of starvation, Shuyun between Long Xin and Danguk whose crew -- the
dragged themself to the doors of the Shadow Crane Murder -- is comprised of cutthroat pirates, criminals,
Temple, a cultivator sect high in the mountains. and mercenaries. The Nightjar’s got a finger in every pie
The cultivators refused to let them in -- they had no -- Long Xin, Danguk, the nobles, even the peasantry.
training, no recommendations, no reputation to speak Xer policy is simple: get the job done, no matter what it
of; they were just a hungry, desperate child. For seven is, as long as the pay is right. Xer services are available to
days and seven nights, Shuyun banged on the doors of the highest bidder; xe stays neutral as much as xe can so
the temple, howling to be let inside. Impressed by the xe can reap the greatest profit.
child’s fortitude and sheer force of will, the cultivators On the surface, the Nightjar and xer Murder are
let them in -- and taught them the magics that had motivated solely by money. But deep down, the
long since been forbidden to them as a mere peasant. Nightjar’s primary concern is xer crew. The Nightjar
Shuyun rose through the monastery’s ranks until they and xer Murder are a ragtag group of misfits and
outclassed even their mentor. When they bested their outcasts, and all they have is each other. They don’t fit
teacher in combat, they left the Shadow Crane Temple in anywhere: not with the other commoners, who are
to pursue their true ambition: destroy the corruption terrified of them and scorn their violent ways; not with
that oppresses Long Xin’s common folk. other criminals, whom they’ve double-crossed multiple
Shuyun knows they are an anomaly. Most regular times; and certainly not with the powerful. To that end,
people -- the ones they seek to champion -- are unable to all the Nightjar cares about are xemself and xer crew; xe
attain the heights of divine mastery that they have. They stays out of politics as much as xe can and throws away
also know they cannot take down Long Xin alone, conceptions of “good” and “evil” in favor of taking care
nor do they want to. Growing up among the Shadow of xer own family.
Cranes taught them that community is everything. As The Nightjar’s real name is Yinshen. Xer tale is
the leader of the growing movement of Peasant Mages, as old as time: a streetwise orphan who never had
Shuyun’s strategy is threefold: raid merchant ships a family; who survived by stealing and lying and,
carrying new technologies and magical knowledge, arm eventually, killing; who should be dead; but who isn’t.
their followers with these bounties while instilling the The Nightjar keeps private and looks down on those
prudence to use them responsibly, and feed them. who harp on their broken pasts; in xer eyes, everyone’s
In addition to these “acts of piracy” that Long broken -- no one’s special in that regard. What matters
Xin’s monarchy calls Shuyun’s merchant ship raids, is what you do with your brokenness; for the Nightjar,
the Peasant Mages also provide the people of Long that’s taking care of xer own. No one knows the
Xin with ample food, clean water, and seeds. They Nightjar’s real name or story except for xer first
do so by using the necromantic magic of Long Xin to mate, Shrike.
make plants grow, cleanse the soil of corruption, and
banish scorned spirits from haunting homesteads and Fashion in Long Xin: An Overview
farmlands. This earns the Peasant Mages strong support
The styles of clothing worn by folk in Long Xin
among the common people of Long Xin; for every
is collectively known as longfu, which translates to
town they feed, they pick up a dozen new recruits.
“clothing of the dragon”: a nod to a popular origin
As Shuyun and the Peasant Mages grow in influence, story about Long Xin’s ancestors springing from the
the monarchy of Long Xin cracks down on their spilled blood and cracked bone of a dying dragon as
raids. This becomes increasingly dangerous for the the world’s first ever act of necromancy. Longfu are
Peasant Mages as Shuyun sets their sights on the typically comprised of slip-on shoes, trousers or a skirt,
latest shipments coming in from Danguk -- perhaps and a loose robe (changpao) with a sash. Changpao are
shipments carrying objects the emperor desperately typically worn with the left collar overlapping the right
needs. as a gesture of the wearer pledging their heart to the
emperor. Those who clasp their robes right over left are

124 Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries

seen as seditious; the only exception is during funerals. peasants and scholars alike, many merchants vie for the
Another popular longfu is the pifeng, an outer coveted Black Skull Cape.
robe with broad, billowing sleeves that can be worn The Black Skull Cape is a special pifeng bestowed
both indoors and outdoors as well as during all four upon tradespeople who have served the dynasty in some
seasons of the year. In the colder regions, doupeng are outstanding way. No two Skull Capes are exactly alike,
common: insulated, sleeveless cloaks that ward off the though their overall design is the same: a pitch-black silk
chill and are layered on top of other clothing. Although robe with bone-white patterns evocative of the wings of
these garments are worn by everyone in Long Xin, the a death’s-head hawkmoth. These capes are enchanted
details surrounding them -- such as materials, colors, with necromantic magic that compels those who owe
and patterns -- vary based on three major factors: social Black Skull merchants money to pay off their debts at
standing, profession, and magical status. any cost.
Real-World Cultural Note
Nong
Although Long Xin draws heavy inspiration from Nong are peasant farmers who adorn themselves
real-world histories, it is not a one-to-one allegory in homespun, long-lasting longfu that skimp on frills
for China. Creative liberties infuse unique fantasy but are durable and hardy, spun from cotton or clothes
elements into Long Xin, many of which are and dyed in simple colors like brown, cream, tan, and
culturally specific -- and many of which are not. gray. Most manual laborers wear a hip-length jacket
For instance, the term longfu is a nod to hanfu, the over an undershirt, paired with a skirt to form a ruqun
traditional styles of Chinese dress; translated into or trousers to form shanku. Robes are fastened shut
English, hanfu means “clothing of the Han.” The at the waist with a sash and left open during labor
Han don’t exist in Long Xin, either as an ethnic for ventilation, revealing bare chests across genders.
group or as a dynastic legacy, so using the term Commoners wear unpretentious shoes of wood, kudzu,
hanfu would be misleading. or corn leaves. Working families who assiduously save
Another divergence from real-world legacies is for a year or more can afford more durable footwear
the reasoning behind fastening one’s changpao made from tanbark, pelt, or crepe. A peasant’s most
left over right. Many cultural experts believe prized possession is usually their doupeng, which keeps
this practice stems from Ming Dynasty powers them warm during the colder seasons.
wanting to differentiate themselves from Although magic is a restricted practice, some
“barbaric” northern clans (i.e., the Mongols). commoners incorporate chrysanthemums into their
Long Xin’s worldbuilding is intentionally everyday wear as a folk tradition to disinvite negative
crafted to avoid playing into colonialist tropes necromantic omens, wearing the flower in their hair,
of “civilized” peoples versus “barbarians,” even carrying dried petals in their pockets, or sewing floral
from a historically informed context -- hence the patterns onto their sleeves. For many Long Xin’rs,
reimagining. Long Xin reimagines and reinterprets chrysanthemums represent life and longevity, which
aspects of the Ming Dynasty to create a wholly combats necromantic energies. This belief is so strongly
unique necromantic fantasy kingdom. held that the Peasant Mages use chrysanthemums in
their iconography. Some officiants have even imposed
Shang bans on chrysanthemums, fearing they might dampen
the potency of the emperor’s necromancers -- or foment
At the bottom of the social hierarchy -- though revolt. Most cultivators need not fear the humble
not the bottom of means -- are shang: traders and chrysanthemum, however; regular flowers are harmless.
merchants. Shang are widely regarded by the rest of Only enchanted blooms can truly drain a cultivator’s
Long Xin society as moochers who produce nothing power.
and live off the labor of others. Despite this reputation,
many merchants wear robes of cloth and silk dyed in
rich, eye-catching colors to differentiate themselves
from the peasant class. To ward off criticism from
Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 125
 Peasant Positionality for civil servants, gold for courtesans, and black for the
Nong occupy a contentious place in Long Xin emperor’s spouses.
society. They comprise the vast majority of the As for necromancers… well, they wear whatever
population -- by some censuses, up to 90% -- and they want. Some prefer the long, graceful look of
are widely considered diligent, hard-working changpao and go to great lengths to attain the perfect
folk who sustain the kingdom through sweat custom robe that befits their practice; others dress in
and blood. However, they are also the most plain shanku and can be easily mistaken for a peasant
disenfranchised class of people: the first to suffer farmer. However, formally recognized cultivators (i.e.,
from bureaucratic corruption, disallowed from the only legitimate cultivators in the kingdom’s eyes)
practicing magic, and valued solely for their must adhere to a strict dress code that befits a proper
labor. Multiple holidays a year celebrate the nong, necromancer: unsullied robes, their focus in plain sight,
involving empire-provided feasts, entertainment, and hair adorned in one of eight acceptable styles. More
and mandated rest -- a small luxury that keeps the rules about dress and behavior are added every day by
people happy and (ideally) prevents them from the paranoid Zhu Huya, who fears treason at every turn
rebelling. -- especially from his precious royal cultivators.

Gong
Gong are artisans and craftspeople whose clothes
befit their livelihood: carpenters and potters wear
shanku with tight sleeves; painters prefer changpao
of elegant cuts; jewelers adorn themselves in graceful
ruqun and shoes woven from brocade. Gong are
well-respected in Long Xin, economically situated
above nong but with none of the baggage of shang, as
craftspeople are considered to be productive members
of society.
Many artisans possess a set or two of truly beautiful
longfu: sweeping robes with enchanted patterns of
clouds and herons that move on their own; a glittering
crown with gemstones that change color; shoes that
sing with every step. These objects tend to possess little
practical value but are widely coveted by peasants,
merchants, and artisans alike as the closest thing to
magic that they are allowed to achieve.

Shi
At the top of the social order are shi, noble scholars
who serve the emperor directly and run the day-to-day
affairs of the kingdom. Shi are split into two major
subcategories: bureaucratic officiants and necromantic
cultivators. The former wear long, sweeping changpao
of various gem-toned colors that befit their particular
substations: red for military officials, blue for scholars,
brown for exam administrators, white for mystics and
holy folk, green for economic administrators, purple

126 Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries

Undying Corruption: Neighboring Countries 127