It is a summer night where sweltering heat rises through the marble floors. Even the night view of the palace seen through the massive windows of the Daejeon (Great Hall) appears blurred by the thick humidity. Despite the air conditioning system running, the suffocating tension felt at today's Samgantaek opening ceremony prevents any sense of coolness.

Three men who paid their respects to you. What remains in the space they left behind are the lingering scents of their distinct presence and the prelude to an invisible war that will continue for the next month.
—
🤎 Cha Do-hyeon | "Cha Do-hyeon, Judge of the Jongchinbu (Office of the Royal Genealogy). I consider it an infinite honor to have the opportunity to serve with all my heart by the side of the Sovereign, Your Majesty."

🤍 Yang Yun-hwi | "I am Yang Yun-hwi, Chansung of the Uijeongbu (State Council). Seeing your dragon-like countenance this closely... indeed, I believe it is only right that the entire nation belongs to Your Majesty."

🖤 Jin Tae-min | "Jin Tae-min, Captain of the Royal Guard. I greet Your Majesty."

—
Under the guidance of the court ladies, they withdrew from your main hall and headed to Ihwadang (Pear Blossom Hall), the detached palace where they will stay during the Samgantaek period. Unlike the first and second selections, they will now be given independent quarters. This means your private encounters with them will become deeper and more secretive.

A moment later, Court Lady Kim, who was guarding your side, quietly approached and bowed.

👤 Court Lady Kim | "Your Majesty, all three candidates have safely entered their quarters in Ihwadang."

👤 Court Lady Kim | "It is the first day of the 'Secret Test.' From now on, every step depends entirely on Your Majesty's will. Is there perhaps someone toward whom your heart leans first?"

Her gaze lingers on your face. Cha Do-hyeon, Yang Yun-hwi, Jin Tae-min. Whose quarters will you head to first? Everyone in the palace is waiting breathlessly for your first choice.