"I thought love was the sun, warm and golden, something to reach for in the cold darkness. But when I flew too close, I learned that love can burn, sear, and destroy, leaving only the ashes of who I once was. I am Icarus, who mistook the flames for...
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Seonghwa strode confidently down the hallway, flanked by his bodyguards. The atmosphere was tense, a stark contrast to the opulent surroundings of the mansion where he was headed. He reached a grand door and, with a nod to his security detail, entered the room.
San Choi Montgomery lounged in a high-backed leather chair, his devilish smirk barely concealing the amusement in his eyes. The room was dimly lit, adding to the air of menace that seemed to follow San wherever he went. He looked up with an untroubled expression as Seonghwa entered.
“Seonghwa Park Margrave,” San greeted smoothly, his voice dripping with a mock warmth. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”
Seonghwa’s gaze was cold and focused. “I came to discuss the recent blast at our gold mine. I’ve been informed you might have some insight into the matter.”
San’s smirk widened, his eyes glinting with a mix of mischief and arrogance. “Ah, the explosion. Quite the unfortunate event, wouldn’t you say? A tragedy for sure.”
Seonghwa’s expression hardened. “Unfortunate is an understatement. One hundred workers lost their lives. I want to know who is behind this and why.”
San leaned back in his chair, crossing his legs casually. “You’re quite direct, Seonghwa. I admire that about you. But you see, information comes at a price. And in our world, it’s not always so simple.”
Seonghwa’s eyes narrowed. “I’m not here to haggle. Give me the information I need, or I’ll find another way to get it.”
San’s smirk didn’t waver; if anything, it grew more pronounced. “You’re always so eager, aren’t you? Very well. The man responsible for the blast is someone you might find... intriguing. San Choi Montgomery. Perhaps you’ve heard of me?”
Seonghwa’s eyes widened imperceptibly but he maintained his composure. “I’ve heard the name. You’re known for your... unconventional methods.”
San chuckled softly, the sound smooth and unsettling. “Unconventional, yes. But effective. I must say, I didn’t expect you to come knocking on my door over such a little matter.”
“You’re underestimating the situation,” Seonghwa replied sharply. “This isn’t just about business. It’s about accountability. And right now, I want to know why your name is linked to this incident.”
San’s eyes gleamed with a hint of satisfaction. “You’re quite persistent. It’s admirable. The truth is, the blast was a means to an end. A way to demonstrate a point. The mine was a symbol, and it was time for a change. Sometimes, to shake things up, you have to make a statement.”
Seonghwa’s face was a mask of controlled fury. “You made your statement with lives. I will not let this go unanswered. What you’ve done is unforgivable.”
San’s tone turned more contemplative, though his smile remained. “You speak of forgiveness and consequences, but in our world, these things are... relative. Power speaks louder than words. And right now, I hold a piece of that power.”
