As usual, Sama Chun-bong would be seated early in the viewing gallery each morning, but today he was noticeably absent.

Just before the exams began, a woman in a strikingly unique outfit emerged confidently through the main gate, drawing the attention of onlookers.

Her outfit had a high collar that buttoned at the shoulder, tightly encasing her neck, while her sleeves billowed in double layers and her skirt fell straight down without a single crease.

It was the traditional clothing of the Manchu people, known as Gijang, though Cheong was oblivious to its origins.

“Ha-ha! Cheonghwa Sword! How are you …