The Calm Before the Storm
On the day of Choi Jaehyun's return, Seoul hummed with an air of anticipation. The city seemed to pause, as if aware that something monumental was about to unfold.
As Jaehyun descended from his private jet, flanked by Director Kim, the elite Shadow Unit, Chief Han, and the formidable CBU—some of whom had already secured the area—the atmosphere was thick with a mixture of awe and respect.
Jaehyun's sharp gaze swept across the runway, landing on the four figures standing in a straight line ahead of him.
Leading them was Director Jung, the man responsible for the Strategic and Planning Department. Director Jung, in his early thirties, stood at 6'0", his lean but strong build reflecting years of discipline. His sharp features—dark eyes, neatly styled hair, and clean-shaven face—spoke of a man who possessed both intelligence and ambition.
He exuded a composed, almost calculating air, a leader who thrived on precision and order.
Beside Director Jung stood the three team leaders:
Jeon Hanbin, tall and imposing at 6'2", had an athletic build that made him appear like a soldier ready for war. His black hair, slightly wavy, framed a stern face. His jawline was strong, and his eyes were sharp, revealing the meticulous nature of a man who left nothing to chance.
Kim Sangjun, slightly shorter at 5'11", had a stocky, muscular frame built for strength. His close-cropped hair, broad shoulders, and solid presence were that of a fighter. His rugged features hinted at someone more comfortable in the field than in a suit, but his professionalism was undeniable.
Lee Changjun, standing at 6'0", had a leaner, more agile build. His angular face, sharp jaw, and closely cropped hair gave him a precise and focused appearance. He was the type who blended into the background, his wiry frame concealing the speed and efficiency he brought to his role. Beneath his composed exterior lay a man with deadly skill.
As Jaehyun approached, Director Jung bowed respectfully. "Chairman, have you been well?" His voice was formal, but it carried a tone of deference.
Jaehyun's expression remained expressionless and unreadable. "I've been well, Director. And you?"
"I've also been well, thanks for asking, Chairman," Jung replied smoothly.
"Did you complete the task I assigned you a week ago?" Jaehyun's question cut through the air, direct and to the point.
"Yes, Chairman. I've scheduled an appointment with the Chairman of Castle Holdings for tomorrow as you instructed," Jung confirmed, standing tall, his composure intact.
"Excellent," Jaehyun responded, satisfaction evident in his voice. He gave a small nod, signaling the team to proceed.
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Flashback
Jaehyun leaned back in his chair, his gaze distant as he spoke into the phone, his voice steady and commanding.
"Director Jung, arrange an appointment with Chairman Choi Minwook of Castle Holdings for the day after I return to Korea," Jaehyun ordered, the authority in his tone leaving no room for hesitation.
On the other end, Director Jung responded immediately, "Yes, Chairman. I'll take care of it."
Without delay, Director Jung picked up another phone and dialed Castle Holdings. When the line connected, he was greeted by the voice of Chief Secretary Lee Heesung.
"Good afternoon, this is Jung Gunwoo, Director of the Strategic and Planning Department at JH Group," Jung introduced himself smoothly. "My Chairman would like to request an appointment with Chairman Choi for next Monday at 2pm."
There was a moment of silence on the other end as Secretary Lee absorbed the unexpected request, his tone tinged with surprise. "JH Group?" He hesitated briefly. "Let me speak with my Chairman, and I'll get back to you shortly."
"Of course, no problem," Jung replied calmly, his confidence unwavering.
Ten minutes later, Director Jung's phone rang. It was Secretary Lee once again, his tone more composed this time.
"Director Jung, I've spoken with Chairman Choi. His schedule is clear, and he can meet at the requested time."
"Perfect," Jung replied, his voice smooth with satisfaction. "We'll see you next week then. Thank you for your prompt coordination."
As the call ended, Jung allowed himself a slight smile. Everything was falling into place.
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As he settled into the backseat, Jaehyun's mind drifted, his thoughts weaving through the complexities of what lay ahead. The second season of the manhwa has already begun, he mused silently, staring out at the city lights flickering in the distance.
Ma Joonyoung has been released from prison, and Father has already announced the exchange meeting between the pillars. A subtle smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. The pieces were all falling into place.
The drive to his mansion was smooth and uneventful, the silence within the car amplifying the weight of the decisions he would soon have to make.
As they arrived, the gates to his sprawling estate opened without a sound, revealing the grandeur of his home in Korea. Jaehyun stepped out, his shoes tapping against the stone path as he approached the entrance.
The mansion loomed large, an imposing yet elegant structure that mirrored his rise to power. As he walked inside, Jaehyun took a deep breath, the stillness of his home offering him a brief moment of peace.
He climbed the stairs to his private quarters, his mind focused on the next day's critical meeting. Everything was poised to begin—just as he had planned.
Standing by the window, Jaehyun gazed out at the city one last time before retiring for the night. The wheels were in motion, and nothing could stop what was to come.
With that final thought, he laid down, allowing the tension of the day to melt away.
It all starts tomorrow, he thought as his eyes fluttered closed, drifting into sleep, fully prepared for the battles that awaited him.