"A lot has changed since I was here last. Chief Hwang. When was the last time I came?"

"Twenty-one years ago, sir. Your last visit was the ceremony for the new stadium."

At Do-beom's answer, Tak-hyeon turned his head.

"That long?"

"Yes."

When Do-beom gave a slight bow and answered, Tak-hyeon looked at Seong-ho and said —

"I've been neglectful, then. I'll have to pay more attention from now on."

"Not at all, sir. It's an honor just to have you visit like this."

Director Jeong-seop Yun, his face full of emotion, bowed his head and said —

"We'll be sure to win today and present you with the regular-season pennant confirmed as your gift, Chairman. And we'll carry the momentum into the Korean Series and take our first championship in twenty years — that we'll do."

"Hahaha. Fine. I'll be looking forward to it — do your best. What an amusing fellow."

Tak-hyeon patted the shoulder of the still-bowed Yun and gestured toward the end of the corridor.

"That way is where the players are?"

"Yes. They've all gathered together, hoping to hear a word from you before they go out to play."

"So one old man showing up puts all these people to work. Let's go, then. Can't keep the players waiting."

Tak-hyeon walked toward the players' waiting room, guided by Seong-ho.

Manager Kim, about to follow behind Tak-hyeon and Seong-ho, spotted Director Yun still standing frozen with his head bowed and stepped over to him.

"Director. What's the matter?"

"The Chairman patted me on the shoulder. The Chairman said I was amusing."

Director Yun was still unable to gather himself after Tak-hyeon's praise.

Manager Kim shook his head, gave him a light pat on the back, and said —

"Director. I understand you're pleased, but we have to catch up. Otherwise we'll be late."

At Manager Kim's words, Director Yun raised his head and spotted Seong-ho and Tak-hyeon going into the players' waiting room.

"Aigo. I've been handed a chance to look good in front of the Chairman — I can't be late. Let's go, quickly."

Director…