Seongjungwon, where Tak-hyeon's father — the founder of the Ilhyeon Group — had spent the last of his years, sat in Hannam-dong overlooking the Han River.

A single car pulled into Seongjungwon, newly refurbished after roughly three years of repairs so that Tak-hyeon could use it as an office. It was the car of Il-gyeong Dan, Seongjungwon's first guest.

"Magnificent."

Stepping out of the car, Dan let out an exclamation at the sight of the Han River below and the trees and rooftops draped in white snow.

"I never knew a place like this existed in Seoul."

"Chairman, it's cold — please come inside. Once you're in and looking out, you'll find a different sort of charm to it."

Do-beom urged Dan to come in. At his suggestion, Dan, whose steps had halted a moment to take in the view, set them moving again and went into Seongjungwon.

"Chairman Dan. It's been a while."

"Chairman Lee. Have you been well?"

"I've been well enough."

Tak-hyeon smiled warmly and took Dan's hand. Looking him up and down with a smile, he said,

"Seeing you looking so hale and hearty gladdens me. Nothing ailing you, I hope?"

"Hahaha, could I be what I once was? I live each day grateful just to be walking about like this."

"Don't say such things. You must hold up in good health and guide juniors like me, mustn't you? Grant me your teachings for another ten years, another twenty."

"Just the words are appreciated."

The two men conversed in a warm, cordial atmosphere. But Do-beom, watching from beside them, knew well that neither meant a word of it.

"Come, come. Sit and let's finish our talk."

Tak-hyeon guided Dan inside.

"There's real charm to it. This is where Master Ilhyeon spent his later years, isn't it?"

"Yes. It's where my father stayed until the end."

"The view I saw from the yard before coming in was exceptional too. I'm no geomancer, but a place like this must be what they commonly call an auspicious site."

"You praise it too highly. It's simply a little better than…