An orphaned man known as Dog-Bird gets more than he bargained for when he illegally sneaks into the capital city of the Silla kingdom to help a friend.
Dog-Bird finds Mak Moon's father, but not in the circumstances he was expecting. Queen Jiso's announcement about the start of her group does not meet with approval.
Hwarang's beginning quickly turns violent, causing Aro to be called in as a doctor. Queen Jiso is displeased that the group seems to be falling apart so quickly.
Jinheung becomes determined to protect Aro when her eavesdropping leads to dangerous consequences. Suho finally remembers what happened to Sooyun and goes after Banryu.
Jinheung and Dog-Bird struggle with the lie that Queen Jiso has decided to use to her advantage. Master Ahnji tries to find medicine to help stem the epidemic.
Jinheung declares himself the real king only to be challenged by Master Youngshil. Dog-Bird considers what he has learned about himself and what he will become.