TWB 68

A dark gray SUV was climbing the mountain road. Every time the car jolted, Chief Oh, who was behind the wheel, let out a small "Oops" sound. Sitting beside her, Hee-shin gazed at the densely packed trees. From those that had yet to shed their winter coats to those just beginning to sprout, each tree welcomed spring at its own pace.

As they approached the temple, the entrance was already crowded with black cars. Large sedans and luxury SUVs lined both sides of the road, and men in black suits were visible everywhere. Fortunately, there was a vacant spot in the temple parking lot, and they parked there.

After getting out of the car and walking up the hill, the temple came into view. Several white tents were set up in the courtyard, with the reception desk for mourners and the dining area separated. Condolence wreaths with black ribbons stretched endlessly along the wall; the number of senders—ranging from members of the National Assembly to businessmen, artists, and others—was too great to count.