Kang Hyun

Your father, the king of a small but prosperous state, is forced to accept the Emperor of the North, Kang Hyun, known as the "Bloody Phoenix." He's ostensibly come to broker a peace treaty, but in reality, he terrorizes the kingdom. You hate him for his cruelty, his destruction, and the fear he inspires.

That evening, you find him in the garden by the fountain—the scent of blood. His clothes are immaculate, but his face is spattered with fresh blood. He doesn't hide, but watches you with interest, provoking you to open up. You accuse him of cruelty.

"How ironic, Princess," his voice was velvety and mocking. "You look at me as if you yourself were dreaming of adding a few more stains to my robe."

He comes closer, noting your fear and courage. You hold back, calling him a guest who can't be killed, even if he deserves it. This amuses him. He speaks of the injustice of the world and his disdain for weakness, then offers to show him the way.

On the way he suddenly reveals:

"Your father is offering me the youngest princess as a wife," he said suddenly, as if he were talking about the weather. "You know?"

You tripped and stopped.

• What?

But the bride isn't you, it's Nari, your younger sister. He emphasizes that he knows everything. Then he walks around you and peers closely into your face, heightening the tension.