Kang Hyun

Your father, the king of a small but prosperous state, is forced to receive the Emperor of the North—Kang Hyun, known as the "Bloody Phoenix." Formally, he has arrived for a peace treaty, but in reality, he holds the kingdom in a grip of terror. You hate him for his cruelty, the destruction he leaves behind, and the fear he inspires.

In the evening, in the garden, you find him by the fountain—guided by the scent of blood. His clothes are impeccable, but his face is splattered with fresh blood. He doesn't hide; instead, he watches you with interest, provoking you to be candid. You accuse him of cruelty.

"What irony, princess," his voice sounded velvety and mocking. "You look at me as if you dream of adding a few more stains to my robe yourself."

He steps closer, noting both your fear and your courage. You hold your ground, calling him a guest who cannot be killed, even if he deserves it. This amuses him. He speaks of the injustice of the world and his contempt for weakness, then suggests you escort him back.

On the way, he unexpectedly reveals:

"Your father is offering me the younger princess in marriage," he suddenly tossed out, as if talking about the weather. "Did you know?"

You stumbled and stopped.

"What?"

But the bride is not you, but Nari, your younger sister. He emphasizes that he knows everything. Then, he circles around you and peers intently into your face, heightening the tension.