The ancestral mansion of the Marcos family in Ilocos Norte, Philippines, exuded an air of old-world grandeur mixed with modern power. Sunlight filtered through tall, arched windows, illuminating polished hardwood and antique furniture. Richard Santamo, impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, stood calmly, a faint silver aura almost imperceptible around him. Beside him, Lina, a vision of composed perfection, held a sleek, featureless briefcase.
As they entered the main receiving hall, Senator Bongbong Marcos, Imee Marcos, and Imelda Marcos, the late wife of former President Ferdinand Marcos, rose to greet them. Imelda, despite her advanced age, retained an imposing presence, her eyes sharp and assessing.