Bound by Shadows .jc

CHAPTER 68

A Legacy of Shadows

The grand hall was an embodiment of Viktor Kwon's legacy—cold, imposing, and meticulously crafted. Black and red dominated the decor, with velvet drapes framing towering windows and candlelit chandeliers casting flickering light over the crowd. At the center of the room stood Viktor's portrait, his sharp features immortalized in a stoic expression that seemed to pierce through the living even in death.

The air was heavy, not with grief but with anticipation. Among the crowd of elite businessmen and underworld figures, respect was feigned, and emotions masked. Funerals for men like Viktor were seldom about mourning; they were about power, alliances, and statements. Yet, amidst the sea of unreadable faces, there were cracks in the façade.

Dino, the youngest of the SVT gang, stood near the photograph, his eyes filled with unshed tears. His tough exterior faltered, and as soon as his gaze met Viktor's image, a single tear escaped, tracing a silent path down his cheek. His lips trembled, and he turned away briefly, struggling to compose himself.

Hoshi, standing rigidly nearby, glanced at Dino. His jaw tightened as he blinked rapidly, forcing back the emotions threatening to surface. He raised his chin slightly, maintaining the stoicism expected of him, but the faint glint in his eyes revealed his inner turmoil.

Jun and Vernon stood to the side, their expressions solemn, exchanging the occasional glance as they monitored the room. Wonwoo leaned against a column at the far end, his sharp eyes scanning every face, reading every subtle shift in demeanor like a chessboard in motion.

And then there was Seungcheol. He stood in front of Viktor's portrait, his hands clasped behind his back, his broad shoulders rigid, his dark suit tailored to perfection. His face was unreadable, but those closest to him could see the slight clench of his jaw, the twitch in his temple. His grief was a silent storm, locked deep within.

The sound of the large oak doors opening drew everyone's attention. Daniel, a figure almost as commanding as Viktor himself, strode into the room. His presence demanded respect; the hush that fell over the hall was immediate. Dressed impeccably, his silver hair neatly combed back, he exuded an aura of authority.

Daniel walked directly to Viktor's portrait, bowing his head briefly before stepping aside. His sharp gaze scanned the room, acknowledging Seungcheol with a slight nod. Then, as if orchestrated, Viktor's long-time lawyer entered the hall, carrying a thick folder under his arm. The crowd stirred, whispers rippling through the assembly.

After paying his respects with a deep bow to the portrait, the lawyer moved to the center of the room. He adjusted his glasses and began, his voice clear and unwavering.

"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for gathering here to honor the legacy of Viktor Kwon. As his trusted legal counsel, I have been instructed to share his final will and testament. Please listen carefully, as these words will define the future of his empire and the lives he entrusted it to."

The room fell into complete silence, the weight of the moment pressing down on everyone present.

The lawyer unfolded the document and began reading. His tone was precise, authoritative, each word a declaration of power:

"To Kwon Soonyoung, my nephew, I leave the Kwon Corporation in its entirety. You possess the drive and determination to lead it forward. Along with this, I leave you the Kwon Mansion—a place that has housed our legacy for generations.

To Seungcheol Choi, I entrust my mafia operations, territories, and assets. You have proven your loyalty, strength, and capability time and time again. I name you my successor in all matters pertaining to the Kwon Mafia. From this day forward, you shall lead, with all rights and responsibilities this entails.