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Chapter Text

There was one day left until TeSTAR's vacation was over. After that, all the members were supposed to return to the dorms and prepare for their next schedule refreshed and ready to return the love their fans gave them tenfold.

Cha Yujin returned to the dorms, expecting to be the last member to arrive. When he was told one of the members had still yet to return, he was terribly confused. More confused over the identity of the member himself, rather than the fact he had not come back.

"Didn't Moondae-hyung stay in the dorms?"

"After receiving strange texts from him the entire break, we've told the company and they're investigating," Ryu Chungwoo looked serious. "We can only hope nothing happened."

That hope stretched for over a week. Park Moondae had yet to be found. Using the excuse of the missing member's health, TeSTAR's schedule was delayed. With Bae Sejin leading the charge, TeSTAR fought for the delay rather than continuing as a six-member group for the comeback.

Bae Sejin was disgusted at the thought of promoting with one of their members missing like this.

Then, the news portals exploded.

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[HOT] Top Idol VTIC's Chengryeo (Shin Jaehyun) arrested for abduction, confinement, and murder of a boy group idol [NEW!]

🗨️ 18,394

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┗ ??? murder in the idol community? that's insane.

┗ how did our jaehyun get caught up in some crazy plot like this?? this sounds so fake

┗┗ you're really trying to defend an alleged kidnapper and murderer? seems like both he and his fans are twisted.

┗ i wonder who's the victim? my condolences...

┗ this makes me sick. i can't believe i've been supporting a psycho

VTIC saw a sudden pause in all activities following the news. TeSTAR frantically tried to contact their missing member, and their fears grew with each passing day as more and more evidence was exposed to the public.

Seven days after the article was released, Shin Jaehyun committed suicide behind his bars.

This incident would come to be remembered as one of the most mysterious and biggest tragedies in the country as fans of both groups began connecting the dots between one group member's sudden hiatus and another group member's suicide.

There was more to this story, but to Cheongryeo, it was unimportant.

It seems like that kid was right, that if he killed Park Moondae, that didn't mean he would get sent back. When he didn't open his eyes in his younger body after going in for the kill and felt for the limp Moondae's ceased pulse, he proceeded with his plan in slowly making TeSTAR's Park Moondae disappear.

However, as if the universe was on Park Moondae's side and not his, such a scheme was uprooted by some hitchhiker trespassing on the dilapidated building, and Cheongryeo found himself contemplating whether or not to kill himself in jail.

He rationalized that there was nothing to lose. This round's VTIC and Cheongryeo were beyond saving as more and more articles against him were published. Whether he actually died or miraculously woke up didn't matter anymore.

But when Cheongryeo opened his eyes in a familiar room in his old home, he knew he had won.

Although, perhaps there was still something special about his junior, even if he didn't have the ability to cycle through countless lives like Cheongryeo could. While Cheongryeo usually regressed back to before VTIC's debut, from the date on the calendar, it appeared VTIC was already well into their prime. This hadn't happened before.

No matter. It was still before VTIC's main vocalist's scandal, and Cheongryeo had plenty of time to find and take Park Moondae into LeTi and, ultimately, VTIC and under his control.

Quickly, he began searching everything he knew about Park Moondae. Calculating his current age, finding his former high school, and soon, narrowing his search to a shop his junior was working in as a part-timer.

"Park Moondae? Kid's in the back. I'll call him for ya."

"Thank you, boss."

A timid, scrawny kid scrambled from the kitchen to the waiting area, smelling of grease and cooked meat. Cheongryeo blinked a few times, trying to process the sight in front of him.

This is... my junior?

Perhaps he recognized VTIC's Cheongryeo from behind his mask, but Park Moondae looked equally as shocked.

While this person had the same face as his junior, Cheongryeo couldn't help but feel there was still something off with him. From the way this person held himself even to the way he breathed, nothing gave off the cool, calculating aura that Park Moondae of TeSTAR carried when they had first met.

Perhaps it had something to do with his past that Cheongryeo wasn't privy to. No one but Park Moondae, and possibly his members, truly knew anything about his past aside from his unfortunate family history and educational background. Even then, details were near none. Although, it wouldn't have been too long since then, Cheongryeo supposed, and maybe becoming an idol did something to his personality.

Cheongryeo spoke first. "You must be Park Moondae."

"Uh? Ah, yes...?" Moondae's eyes darted around as if he didn't know where to look.

"My name is Shin Jaehyun, and I'm part of a company called LeTi. Do you know them?" Cheongryeo took a business card from his wallet and offered it to Moondae.

"Yes... yes, I know them..." Moondae took the card hesitantly, reading it over. "You're from VTIC, right...?

"That's right. I'm looking for members to join the company's upcoming boy group, and think you would be a great fit," Lies fell from Cheongryeo's lips naturally. "What do you think?"

"Upcoming boy group?! Uh, well... I-I don't have any experience! I've never sang or danced before!"

"Most of us haven't, wouldn't you agree? We all start from somewhere," Cheongryeo insisted, "But we'll give you lessons and prepare you adequately. You can be rest assured that life at LeTi will be comfortable."

"I... I can't afford the training costs!"

"Finances won't be an issue when we've set our eyes on someone we want," Cheongryeo pushed further. "The settlement is good, and success is as much as guaranteed under LeTi. Won't you consider it?"

"Um..."

As if to save Park Moondae from an awkward conversation, the bell on the door to the entrance of the restaurant rang and a new customer walked up to the register. Moondae froze.

"Ah...!"

Intrigued, Cheongryeo turned around and saw a dark-haired man with glasses, dressed in all black like countless of others. The man looked at Cheongryeo once, but didn't pay him any attention and instead looked back at Park Moondae.

"Park Moondae. Your shift ends soon, right? I came earlier than expected, but I'll wait for you outside."

Moondae looked between Cheongryeo and the stranger a few times before replying, "Yeah! I'll be out soon, I clock out in ten."

"Alright."

As the man turned back to the entrance, Cheongryeo thought of something that ordinarily would have been impossible, but having done impossible things himself, it made sense.

Cheongryeo followed the man outside, ignoring Moondae's calls of his name. He wasn't important anymore.

Cheongryeo opened the door and found the man leaning against the building's corner, browsing what looked to be a forum about idols. With a better view of the man thanks to the sunlight, Cheongryeo took in this person's details.

Soon, his eyes met a pair of dull black ones, staring back at him blankly. A neat silver frame rested on his face, making for a sleek appearance. Had the camera bag slung over his shoulder not have been there, Cheongryeo would have doubted his next few thoughts.

I know this man.

Images of the same photographer presented itself in Cheongryeo's mind, one by one. Every time, at each cycle, like a dedicated fansite, a familiar face had always been present at VTIC's schedules. Donning a black cap and the same silver glasses, Cheongryeo had come to recognize the man whenever his eyes fell on the crowd.

"That photographer, yes, I know him," Youngrin had told him before. "It sounds funny, but I really do owe my career to him, to his fancam."

Cheongryeo extended his hand. Smiling pleasantly, he introduced himself, "Hello, I didn't introduce myself earlier. My name is Shin Jaehyun."

There was no way this person didn't know who Cheongryeo was the moment they locked eyes, but Cheongryeo introduced himself regardless.

"...Ryu Gunwoo," Ryu Gunwoo accepted the hand and shook.

Like lightning just struck from the sky and hit him with frightening precision, Cheongryeo almost couldn't contain his victorious smile. He brought his other hand up to cover his mouth politely as he retracted his hand.

It's my junior. He's my junior.

"I hope I didn't sour my first impression just now, but I have a keen eye for talent," Cheongryeo attempted to make conversation first. "I noticed you were looking at a news page about idols, do you happen to be interested in them?"

"Not exactly," Gunwoo replied.

Not very talkative, just like before. Cheongryeo made a mental note.

"I see. I thought Park Moondae had some potential and was making an offer to him to join my company, LeTi," Cheongryeo noticed that the boy, Moondae, elicited reactions from Gunwoo that were otherwise dormant.

Cheongryeo analyzed the little movements and behaviours that were characteristically so TeSTAR Park Moondae. From that slight tilt from the base of his chin to the shoulders inching over to face Cheongryeo, this man's attention was on him now.

With those mannerisms and subtle facial expressions, there was no doubt the Ryu Gunwoo in front of him was TeSTAR's Park Moondae. While TeSTAR's Park Moondae never mentioned anything about a different body or name, there wasn't a sliver of doubt in Cheongryeo's mind.

The only thing Cheongryeo wondered was why his junior didn't just use his original body and decided to use Park Moondae's instead. Unless he didn't have that choice?

What a shame. Ryu Gunwoo was not bad-looking.

Moreover, that gaze—the one Loviewers called the Tibetan fox side of Moondae—was suddenly so much more potent in Ryu Gunwoo. It was a defining feature of Moondae's during his days in Idol Inc., and certainly, such a look was unique.

Cheongryeo had to take it for himself.

"You seem to harbour some talent yourself. What do you say?"

"Do you say this to everyone you meet?" Gunwoo turned his eyes back to his phone screen. "I'm too old for that."

"Hm. How old are you?"

"Twenty-six."

That was a bit unexpected, even for Cheongryeo, who had seen a lot of people over his many rounds of life. A second of silence passed between them before Cheongryeo recovered and replied, "I see. Well, there are other avenues I'd like to offer you, in that case."

"Why are you doing this? I'm not interested," Gunwoo shoved his phone into his pockets and crossed his arms, a display of caution and slight annoyance. "You wanted to scout me into being a trainee and now you're saying something else, at least make it sound truthful."

"You got me there," Cheongryeo laughed lightly to ease the atmosphere, but it didn't do much.

"What exactly are you implying?" Gunwoo's irritation became more prominent as the conversation went on.

"I really do want you on my team, Mr. Gunwoo," Cheongryeo took another business card from his wallet and a pen from his jacket breast pocket. "It's a shame I have to resort to this to get you on it."

He flipped the business card to hide the message he wrote and handed it to Gunwoo. At the same time, Park Moondae rushed out of the shop, just having changed and clocked off his shift. Gunwoo quickly hid the business card in his own pocket.

"I'm done! Gunwoo-hyung, let's go!" Moondae latched onto Gunwoo's arm tightly, dragging him away from Cheongryeo. "We'll be late for our reservation!"

Somehow, Cheongryeo didn't think either of the two could afford anything fancy enough to require a reservation to visit, but he quietly let the pair go and went off to his own apartment.

That night, a text from an unknown number interrupted Cheongryeo's sleep. The bright screen glared into Cheongryeo's eyes, and he could feel the sender's malice. However, he couldn't help but let a satisfied grin slide across his face.

Unknown
You aren't human.
I'll show up.

Cheongryeo slept well that night.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

A week later, the text message offender showed up at the lobby of LeTi Entertainment. When it was made known that Shin Jaehyun, the proxy head of LeTi, had invited him, gossip sparked at every corner like a skipping stone.

"Gunwoo-hyung," Cheongryeo addressed Gunwoo intimately. "Happy you could make it."

Tense and guarded under the eyes of the LeTi employees surrounding them, Gunwoo remained silent. Cheongryeo smiled, appearing to try and break the tension, but both he and the person that charming smile was directed to knew better that such a thing was not his intention.

"You've come a long way. Why don't we get right into it?"

Cheongryeo led Gunwoo up to the artist-exclusive floors of LeTi where he sat his guest down and brewed Gunwoo a coffee. A wordless way of informing Gunwoo that their business was going to take some time. It didn't seem like Gunwoo appreciated it.

Cheongryeo was amused. "No need to make that face, Gunwoo-hyung. Meeting like this is going to be more common for us from now on, so I hope you'd get used to it."

""Is this how you treat everyone you've blackmailed?"

"I wouldn't call it that," Cheongryeo's smile didn't falter. "Say coercion instead."

"Neither are very good."

"But you don't seem to think I did a very good thing anyway, so might as well use the lighter word."

Gunwoo didn't respond.

"Relax. You're going to get wrinkles if you keep your face muscles all tense like that," Cheongryeo teased, "I told you. I will guarantee your success."

"I was fine with what I was doing."

"Oh? Indeed?" Cheongryeo leaned forward from his seat, hands folded in front of him with his elbows on his knees. "You were fine with selling people's data to put food on your plate? Using that dirty money to pay your way through a prestigious institution like Yeonhui?"

Suddenly the spacious lounge felt tight and suffocating from the A-list idol's presence alone. There was no room for error, no room for negotiation if the leader thought something was amiss.

Gunwoo, like many others before him, fell into the leader's trap.

Cheongryeo had given him an ultimatum. Secretly, Cheongryeo wondered how Gunwoo reacted when he had opened his little letter that Cheongryeo had given him just before Moondae dragged him away. 

He would have liked to have seen Gunwoo's face when he realized the person he had just met somehow knew about and threatened to expose his unofficial "small business" if Gunwoo didn't adhere to his request.

There were many people like Gunwoo who were in better positions and had no need for selling people's data, yet did so for the extra cash. Cheongryeo relished in the thought of Gunwoo's frustration, asking "why me?" and cursing at life's unfairness.

Yes, life was unfair. Cheongryeo had lived more than enough lives to know that this saying was rooted in facts, and not just the words of a pessimistic washout. However, to use this unfairness and bend fate to your lane was a skill Cheongryeo had mastered.

In this moment, Gunwoo's weakness became Cheongryeo's strength.

"Lots of people would pay hefty amounts to get to know their idol. Pictures, videos, personal data... You've dabbled with those kinds of things a lot, haven't you? Fansites are sacrificing their time and money to follow their gods and goddesses around, yet you stand here in a LeTi artist lounge room, where so many of their seniors have been, ungratefully."

It was tense.

"Trust me. I can show you a much better life than that."

Cheongryeo reached out, entertained by the light flinch Gunwoo seemed to make without noticing. His hand gently pat his shoulder, "Got that?"

Gunwoo nodded slowly. Cheongryeo expected no other answer.

Cheongryeo leaned back into his seat. He reached into his bag and brought out a file folder, taking out a sheet of paper and a pen. He flipped the sheet so its contents were the right side up for Gunwoo across from him. Then, he pushed it towards Gunwoo.

"Despite my words, I meant what I said when I would show you a better life," Cheongryeo tapped the sheet with the back of the pen. "This is a contract all LeTi employees need to sign. You can read it if you'd like, of course. This one specifically is for the department in charge of VTIC's promotional schedules."

Gunwoo took the contract, his eyes slowly scanning each word. Cheongryeo let Gunwoo take the time he needed to review, without interrupting.

Cheongryeo was telling the truth in that there were no hidden traps in this contract. It was a normal employment contract for all LeTi workers, just tailored in a few areas depending on the job. From the outside, it seemed as if Gunwoo had struck gold to receive an offer from one of the largest entertainment companies in the country.

In truth, Cheongryeo lured Gunwoo to LeTi so it would be easier to keep an eye on him. This man, TeSTAR's Park Moondae, had some sort of skill and insight that had brought a previously wrecked group to stardom despite all their failures in each of Cheongryeo's past lives except for one.

Cheongryeo wasn't going to allow for another VTIC rival in this life, and he certainly would prefer having this kind of power on his side rather than out of the picture. VTIC might survive for even longer this time.

With an unpleasant face, Gunwoo signed the contract.

"Welcome to VTIC's team," Cheongryeo smiled and extended his hand. "Since we'll be working together from now on, I hope we can get along."

Gunwoo extended his own hand and shook Cheongryeo's, but his expression was less than harmonious.

"Now, I'll catch you up with some information so that you can head into work right away," And quit your current hustle went unsaid, but heard. "You'll get an email from the HR department with an official job offer, so don't worry about suddenly getting thrown out. Right now, VTIC is preparing for our next comeback, coming in one month.

"The song and concept has already been prepared. All that's left is music video shooting and just extra practice," Cheongryeo continued, "I'd like for Gunwoo-hyung to job shadow VTIC during our promotions."

"Job shadow?" Gunwoo was suspicious. "What does following idols on their promotional schedule have to do with an office job?"

"Honestly, I don't plan on having you stay holed up in there forever," Cheongryeo explained, tapping his finger on the contact that still lay on the table. "Think of this as just a means of entry. I want you to be a little closer than that."

"I don't want to be closer to you."

"Haha. I'm sure you'll come around, Gunwoo-hyung."

"If that's all, I'm leaving," Gunwoo stood from his seat, sparing no second glance to Cheongryeo. Cheongryeo, having completed his goal for the day, was more than happy to lead Gunwoo back down to the lobby.

"I will see you next week, Gunwoo-hyung."

Cheongryeo waved politely goodbye as Gunwoo exited the building. What a shame that he forgot to tell Gunwoo that reporters and journalists loved to camp outside of LeTi.

A week later, Gunwoo was with VTIC in a large studio that had been decorated with lights, stages, and props for music video shooting. All VTIC members were present, dressed in handsome leather and dangling silver.

Cheongryeo was being serious when he said he wanted Gunwoo to job shadow VTIC.

The contract Cheongryeo gave Gunwoo was for a position in VTIC's PR team, which was highly sought out for a position in. What outsiders weren't aware of was that all the members were hand-picked by Cheongryeo, who seemed to know like magic the industry and how to make VTIC stand out.

While Cheongryeo knew TeSTAR's Park Moondae was not a regressor like he was, he recognized and admitted the man's talent and wit for promotion. Having turned Idol Inc. 3 into a national sensation when it was never anything more than a drop of rain in the ocean before, it was something to be in awe of.

So, Cheongryeo would plant this wildcard into his PR team and drag him around with VTIC to expose him to the industry from the inside.

Then, his real plan would kick into action once Gunwoo was comfortable.

For now, he needed to make the man less tense. Cheongryeo approached the frozen Gunwoo.

"What do you think?" Cheongryeo initiated small talk.

"...Overwhelming," Gunwoo replied. His voice sounded honest. "I wasn't aware music videos would have scales as large as this."

"Haha. Remember you are looking at one of the elites in the industry. It doesn't get better than this."

"How arrogant."

"I'm self-aware."

Between their conversation, Jin Chaeyul bounced up towards them. He looked at Gunwoo, squinting his eyes a bit, his brain evidently running overtime.

"Ohh! You're him!" Chaeyul finally spoke before the silence turned uncomfortable. "The one who often follows us around to festivals and other events, right? I think I've seen you around a few times."

"Nice to meet you," Gunwoo maintained distance with pleasantries.

"Yes, nice to meet you," Chaeyul smiled. He sent a knowing glance to Cheongryeo, as if to say, You did something, didn't you?

"Tell the others that he'll be following us around for the time being," Cheongryeo informed, ignoring the look Chaeyul gave him. "At least until we start promoting."

"Yes, sir," Chaeyul saluted playfully and went off to spread the news to the other members of VTIC. Cheongryeo turned back to Gunwoo, who didn't seem pleased.

"When do you start promoting?"

"Next month, so in around four weeks," Cheongryeo replies, finding Gunwoo's unimpressed gaze amusing. "The time will fly by, you'll see."

"Right."

"Even still, I suppose a month is quite a while no matter what," Cheongryeo brought a hand to his chin. He wasn't actually thinking too deeply, but wanted to give off that impression. "Habits can form and new interests can emerge. I wonder how this experience will affect you, Gunwoo-hyung."

"You say that as if you don't have an idea of how you want this to affect me," Gunwoo was right on the money. How scary.

"Perhaps I do have an idea, but what good would that do me if it didn't come true?" Cheongryeo skillfully evaded Gunwoo's bullet. "It's up to you how this will change you."

Gunwoo opted to remain silent. A shame, because Cheongryeo still had much he wanted to learn about his junior.

Then, the director called to begin shooting, and Cheongryeo went off to the set. As he and VTIC recorded and monitored, Cheongryeo kept an eye on Gunwoo in his periphery.

Gunwoo stood to the side with his arms crossed, silently observing the studio environment.

Good. Cheongryeo hoped Gunwoo would get comfortable, since it was a place Cheongryeo planned to bring Gunwoo back to in the future.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

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[NEW] Idol Inc. Season 3 announced: Here are the Trainees you want to look out for...

🗨️ 5,424

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┗ what a joke

┗ lololol are they serious? idol inc? who is gonna tune in to that

┗ it's like they forgot what happened last time......

┗ let's see how many newborn registrations we'll see in nine months

┗ it's sad how there are people so desperate to debut they still attend this show-

Cheongryeo scrolled through the new headline, uninterested. He had read this headline countless of times, until he began ignoring it when enough life cycles had past for Cheongryeo to realize the show and its group was not a threat.

That was up until the last round, when Park Moondae made an appearance. The show climbed the viewer ratings rapidly and its debut group saw major successes.

It was the first time in a long time Cheongryeo had felt threatened.

However, this time, the reason for such drastic events was at his side, an employee badge hanging from a lanyard on his neck that identified him as a LeTi employee in charge of VTIC.

TeSTAR's Park Moondae, otherwise known as Ryu Gunwoo.

Cheongryeo wanted to laugh. What was Idol Inc. Season 3 without Park Moondae?

Although he thought this, it was still early to decide that Ryu Gunwoo was the only anomaly from the last round, so Cheongryeo remained at least a little bit vigilant.

Right now, that anomaly sat in a chair in an empty office, which had just held a meeting regarding VTIC's entertainment show appearances that would go along with music show promotions. Gunwoo had joined for the first time and had detailed and relevant knowledge of current trends and interests, with some tactics Cheongryeo recognized had been used by TeSTAR's Park Moondae.

Within that meeting, Idol Inc. Season 3 had been brought up. While the meeting was for VTIC, other teams wanted the main PR team's opinion on whether to send in LeTi trainees.

While it was uncommon for a company like LeTi to rely on third party shows to get their trainees a name in the public and a chance to debut, some PR team members thought the third season was a chance to attract viewers by using the past controversy.

In their minds, it would be an unexpected move from LeTi and put eyes on the kids they sent in.

Cheongryeo thought it was a horrible plan. Gunwoo appeared to think the same, an expression of disbelief growing deeper on his face throughout the proposal.

The idea was quickly shot down. For the rest of the meeting, VTIC's upcoming schedule was drafted and sent off for approval.

Cheongryeo eventually got bored and shut off his phone, sliding it onto the table and sitting back.

Idol Inc. 3 shouldn't be an issue now that Gunwoo was with him, yet he still felt irritated hearing it be brought up.

Gunwoo, who Cheongryeo felt had his eyes on him since the meeting ended, spoke. "You're worried about Idol Inc.?"

"Not at all," Cheongryeo replied honestly. What was there to worry about now that Gunwoo was by his side? Cheongryeo convinced himself that his nerves came from lingering feelings from the last round.

"You sound confident," Gunwoo said flatly. "Like you know everything."

"Maybe I do."

"Well, I suppose it doesn't take a genius to know Idol Inc. won't be an issue for VTIC," Gunwoo began to scroll on his own phone. Cheongryeo saw from the reflection in his lenses another article about Idol Inc.'s new season. "Even if the show is successful, that doesn't mean the group will be."

"Right," Cheongryeo felt irritated at his own irritation. How uncharacteristic of him.

He just felt like he was overlooking something.

"It's a shame for the trainees who will be going onto that show," Gunwoo commented, "Even if they're talented, I don't see the point of using this shady show. Desperation turns people blind."

"I agree," Amused by Gunwoo's sudden talkativeness, Cheongryeo pried, "Though, it sounds like you're interested regardless."

"I'm just doing my job," Gunwoo rolled his eyes. "Which is to preserve VTIC for as long as possible now."

"You're quick on the uptake. I thought it would take a bit longer for you to assimilate," Despite his words, Cheongryeo was glad.

"Excuse me for not wanting my personal information shared," Gunwoo was referring to his data selling activities. While they hadn't been acquainted for long, both Cheongryeo and Gunwoo knew that Cheongryeo had every intention to go through with his threat should their deal go under.

Cheongryeo recalled the questionnaire Ryu Gunwoo had filled out back when he was a contestant on Idol Inc. as Park Moondae. Truly, the two of them were very alike, but different at the same time.

Perhaps that was why Gunwoo could get such a quick and accurate reading of Cheongryeo. The two danced in each other's palms knowingly.

Then, a ring from Gunwoo's phone interrupted them.

From Cheongryeo's seat near the front, he couldn't tell what Gunwoo was reading on his phone that had the man looking so puzzled. He typed something on his phone, then paused, then typed again.

"Who is that?"

"Nobody that you know."

"What are they saying?"

"Coincidentally, they're interested in Idol Inc.," Gunwoo replied. Hm. "They were previously interested in idols, so it doesn't surprise me."

"You look a bit too surprised for it to be just that."

"They're young, so weird ideas get into their head sometimes," Gunwoo sighed, shutting his phone off. It seemed like the conversation ended. "They told me to try out for it. They..."

Whatever Gunwoo said after had faded out of Cheongryeo's ears.

Ryu Gunwoo? On Idol Inc.? He's twenty-six years old, who would...?

It had to be somebody who knew about the previous round—the only round that Gunwoo had participate in Idol Inc., the only round that Park Moondae existed...

"Well, that's cute, but that won't happen," Cheongryeo might have cut Gunwoo off just now, but he didn't have the capacity to care much if he did. "Though, enough of that. It's time to go, we're done for the day."

Gunwoo silently packed his bag and waited for Cheongryeo to do the same. He still needed the man to guide him through LeTi's endless halls which made exiting the large building difficult for newbies. Happy to see Gunwoo's reliance on him, Cheongryeo purposefully slowed down his actions.

He slung his bag over his shoulder lazily. "Gunwoo-hyung, I'm finished. Let's go."

If he wanted to say something, Gunwoo didn't. So, Cheongryeo kept talking.

"Did you know our manager is going on leave for a while starting tomorrow?" Cheongryeo knew Gunwoo didn't know. "I've been asked to drive the kids around in the meantime."

They entered an elevator.

"Chaeyul, who you spoke with briefly on set, also has a solo schedule tomorrow that I have to bring him to because of that. He's artist of the month this time for that one dance studio, you see," Cheongryeo watched the numbers go down on the electronic screen. "His appearance will boost interest in our comeback as well. After all, he's the kid that gets a lot of attention no matter where he goes. It's good that he likes it, so we can capitalize on it."

Cheongryeo and Gunwoo exited the elevator.

"Do you know the way now, Gunwoo-hyung?" Cheongryeo finally turned around to face Gunwoo who had been trailing silently behind him, no doubt waiting for his ears to bleed.

"I didn't peg you as the talkative type."

"I'm not," Cheongryeo confirmed, "But you need to know this."

"Why?"

"You're coming with me tomorrow, Gunwoo-hyung."

If Gunwoo was surprised, it only showed for a second in his eyes before they glazed over again. That Tibetan fox expression appeared once more.

"See you tomorrow," Was all he said before exiting the building. Amused, Cheongryeo followed him out.

Unfortunately, they lived in opposite directions, so Cheongryeo had no excuse to follow Gunwoo home. Instead, he obediently returned to his own apartment, where he booted up his computer and re-opened an article.

=======

Idol Inc. Season 3 announced: Here are the Trainees you want to look out for...

🗨️ 5,708

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"..." Cheongryeo browsed the page almost mindlessly.

Ryu Chungwoo, Lee Sejin... a few familiar names appeared in the list, as TeSTAR housed some members with a past before their idol debut. Since the show had yet to air, the article's author reminded readers constantly to take the information with a grain of salt, but Cheongryeo already knew who would be on the show and who wouldn't.

Filming had also yet to begin, so any trainees without prior exposure would not have appeared. Especially trainees like Park Moondae, who was an individual trainee with zero training experience and even less industry exposure.

Park Moondae. Cheongryeo believed that kid had been the one to text Gunwoo and told him to challenge the audition show. Up until both of their deaths, Cheongryeo had believed Ryu Gunwoo was Park Moondae, but was wrong. That left a mystery regarding the real Park Moondae's whereabouts in the last round.

At one point, Ryu Gunwoo of the last round had stopped appearing at VTIC's events, but Cheongryeo couldn't recall when that was. Perhaps something had happened all the way back then that was now being reflected today.

The real Park Moondae of this round likely knew of the last round.

That twisted feeling in Cheongryeo's gut resurfaced, wringing his insides out like a towel. Bitterness spilled inside his stomach.

How annoying.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

"Ryu Gunwoo-hyung! Nice to see you again!" Jin Chaeyul excitedly pat the empty car seat next to him. "Come come, sit here!"

"Hello," Gunwoo exchanged the greeting politely. In the front of the car, Cheongryeo watched the interaction through the rear view mirror.

Chaeyul told Gunwoo all about his experience in VTIC and expressed his excitement for the upcoming comeback, which would be one of his favourites of their career until now. In return, Gunwoo told Chaeyul about his student life, which Chaeyul had not been able to experience due to his idol training period. Throughout this exchange, Cheongryeo quietly drove the chatterbox and his new companion to the dance studio.

"I hope you'll like the routine. It's like, kind of dark, but very cool, and though it sounds like what VTIC normally does, it's pretty different," Chaeyul described the dance he would be recording today. "Oh, but you know? Normally, dancing and all the athletic stuff is hyung's job, but he was already artist of the month in the past, so now it's my turn."

"You bring up some old things," Cheongryeo pulled up to the studio.

"But it's so timeless," Chaeyul opened his phone and went to his album. "Gunwoo-hyung, look, I even have the behind the scenes saved in my phone because I went to watch back then. Every time I got a new phone I transferred it over. This video will be worth millions in the future."

"It would be worth millions now," Gunwoo replied calmly. That much was true. Cheongryeo was well aware of his worth within the datapal circle. Meanwhile, Gunwoo didn't appear to have too much interest in the video, but watched regardless.

"That's enough, we're here already," Cheongryeo tilted his head over to the entrance, where two staff members were waiting. "Chaeyul, you might want to hurry."

"Oh yeah, sorry," Chaeyul stashed away his phone and quickly unbuckled his seat belt. "Gunwoo-hyung, see you around! I need to go in first."

"Yes, see you."

Chaeyul quickly grabbed his things and ran over to the staff, dipping his head to lightly apologize for the hold up.

As Chaeyul left, Cheongryeo acted as if he had just recalled something important.

"Gunwoo-hyung, did you get Chaeyul's number yet?"

"No, I didn't ask for it and I don't need it."

"Hm, that'll be an issue," Cheongryeo put a hand to his chin. "I need to send Judan and Shinoh to their schedule as well, but it overlaps with Chaeyul's end time. Do you think you could come back for Chaeyul?"

Gunwoo looked like he wanted to complain, but nodded anyway. Cheongryeo took that as a win. Gunwoo probably thought he didn't have much of a choice.

"Thank you, Gunwoo-hyung," Cheongryeo said, satisfied. He reached into his bag. "By the way, you might be needing this from now on."

A brand new phone found its way into Gunwoo's hands. It was sleek and slim; a great contrast to the heavy and thick phone Gunwoo owned and had kept despite its dying breaths since his high school days.

Gunwoo looked with wide eyes. Chuckling, Cheongryeo explained, "Surprised? This phone has my and all of VTIC's numbers in it, so I suppose you don't need to add Chaeyul's number right now, actually. It was issued by the company through me, but you can essentially think of it as a new phone."

"...Alright," Gunwoo looked at the phone as if it would disappear at any moment. "How much?"

"You aren't thinking that you'd need to pay for it, are you?" Cheongryeo shook his head, feigning disappointment. "It's a necessity for work. You don't need to pay. Although..."

Cheongryeo reached his hand to the back, palm facing upwards. "I realize it is a rather new model compared to your current one. Let me see if a transfer is possible."

A beat passed before two weights settled in Cheongryeo's hand. He brought it to the front seat, taking the new phone in one hand and Gunwoo's current one in the other.

He turned on Gunwoo's phone.

"Hyung, the phone needs to be unlocked to see if the feature works. Do you think you could unlock your phone for me?" He turned the screen towards Gunwoo so that it was now facing away from himself behind his back.

Another beat passed before Gunwoo input his password on his phone. Cheongryeo watched dutifully through the rear view mirror.

He pulled his hand back. "Thank you."

In the next moment, Cheongryeo's own phone rang. Sighing, he picked up his own phone, glanced at the screen, then handed it over to Gunwoo.

"It's Chaeyul. You can pick it up for me," Cheongryeo said, preoccupied with the two other phones in his hands. "He might have forgotten something."

True to his predictions, Cheongryeo heard from the phone's speaker that Chaeyul had forgotten to bring his water bottle which sat in the cup holder on the door. Gunwoo picked it up, confirmed with Chaeyul that it was the right one, and opened his car door.

"I'll give this to him," Gunwoo took the water bottle into his hands, as it had been closer to him. Handing the phone back to its owner, he told Cheongryeo, "I'll be right back."

"Okay, thank you, Gunwoo-hyung," Cheongryeo smiled lightly. "I'll be done with this when you get back."

Gunwoo hesitated for a moment, but left soon. As the car door closed, Cheongryeo turned back to the phone screens. 

He put down the new phone.

On the screen of Gunwoo's phone was a call history page.

Park Moondae. Yesterday, 4:37PM. Park Moondae, two days ago, 7:12AM. Park Moondae, Park Moondae, Park Moondae...

Then, he looked at the messaging tab. Park Moondae was on top, again.

Park Moondae
hyung! have you seen this?
Re-listed! Idol Inc. Audition Show to air this year... (link)
hahaha who knows you should try it out maybe you'd like it!

Ryu Gunwoo
how old do you think I am?
no.
if anyone should try it, you should.
didn't Cheongryeo say you had talent?

Park Moondae
but... but...... 🥺

Clicking his tongue, Cheongryeo pressed into the contact information of Park Moondae. On the new phone, he entered his number, adding the new contact.

Then blocked it.

He then took his own phone and opened his mailing app. A single draft sat in his folders. In the receiver's spot, he input the email Gunwoo's phone was using, and hit send.

A couple seconds later, the new email appeared in Gunwoo's inbox.

Wordlessly, Cheongryeo opened its contents and let the malware invade the old and vulnerable electronic. It ate up Gunwoo's files and information, leaving little trace.

They say the safest hiding spot is the most dangerous one. Park Moondae's phone number hidden in the blocked folder of the new phone was exactly that. He deleted the email from both the inbox and recently deleted folders.

Cheongryeo had to play his cards wisely and bet on himself that Gunwoo did not have that number memorized. Even if he did, a blocked number couldn't initiate a call or text.

Cheongryeo gave a silent ovation to the rift he'd part between Ryu Gunwoo and Park Moondae.

Here's to the perfect round of life.

Finally.

Chapter Text

Park Moondae awoke with a fright.

Ghosts of a dark and damp room, feverish body, and desperate breaths haunted his mind, brainlessly swimming and crashing into the barriers that made up his skull. The taunt of a video game ending screen melody rang through his ears as the last sensation he could remember.

Park Moondae was dead.

Ryu Gunwoo was dead.

Tossing his blanket to the floor and nearly tripping over it after, Moondae rushed to the bathroom.

The hard wood floor thumped beneath his feet and humid summer air stuck to his skin. His breathing sounded a bit too loud for his liking, but he hated it even more when it quieted down after that thought.

It was like he was in control of his body. The door to the bathroom felt cold to the touch.

White light flickered and a pair of dark eyes stared back at him.

"No...!"

His hands flew up to touch his face, patting at his cheeks, nose, mouth, and every other dip and curve on his head. The boy in the mirror did the same.

Park Moondae was back in his own body. The sickness that rolled in his stomach was extra proof.

What did this mean for Gunwoo-hyung?

What happened just now?

Chasing the jumbled thoughts in his head, Moondae herded his memories that were like out of control sheep, collecting them to string a sensible scenario of the past few moments.

Cheongryeo had lured TeSTAR's Park Moondae into his car under the guise of filming. He then drugged Moondae, taking him to a desolate hideout where he later went through with his promise of taking his life if Moondae wouldn't do it himself.

Before he realized it, Moondae was shaking. He gripped his arms, squeezing. What a psycho.

Moondae had witnessed that happen to Gunwoo and couldn't do anything, not from the status window.

Quickly he searched for his phone, hitting the first number and anxiously waited for an answer. The intermittent ringtone felt like it was getting louder and louder with each ring.

His hands felt clammy around the device.

"Hello?"

"Gunwoo-hyung!" A huge sense of relief washed over Moondae. "Are you okay?!"

"I'm fine..." Gunwoo replied, the tone of his voice turning inquisitive. "What do you mean?"

"Eh? Ah? Do you perhaps not remember what just...?"

"What? Speak coherently."

How could he when his head became jumbled again?

A moment of silence passed between them and Ryu Gunwoo sighed. "Moondae, are you not feeling well? If so, you should call into your work and tell them."

"Work...?" Moondae's eyes shifted to his window. The sun had still not risen fully into the sky. Certainly, it looked like a morning Moondae was used to seeing when he woke up for a shift in the barbecue restaurant.

"Yes. Don't you have work today? Until three, then we would meet for dinner," Gunwoo began saying some strange things. "But if you're not feeling well, then you should stay home."

"N-No! No, I'm not sick! Yes, work... I have work today," Moondae played along with what Gunwoo was saying. "I-I'll see you after!"

"If you're sure," Gunwoo sounded unconvinced, but let it go. "Call me if you need me to pick you up."

"Okay... thank you, hyung," Moondae felt a smile spread on his face. "See you later."

"See you later."

Gunwoo hung up first, leaving Moondae to collect his thoughts. He searched through his phone, hitting the calendar app. What immediately appeared was the date and an event.

September 20XX
TODAY | (in thirty minutes) work - 11AM to 3PM
TODAY | (in five hours) meet gunwoo-hyung for dinner~ - 5PM

"Don't you have work today? Until three, then we would meet for dinner."

"Ahhhh!"

Moondae scrambled to find his uniform tucked in his dresser and wore it properly almost automatically. After repeating this type of schedule for nearly three years, it became routine for Moondae.

But having to do this after nearly a year's break? Moondae was sweating!

September 20XX. This was one month after Moondae had met Gunwoo the first time, and two months after Moondae's failed suicide attempt. Gunwoo had found Moondae right after when he wandered the streets after his residential contract expired, having not expected to still be around when he needed to renew it.

With Gunwoo's help, within two months, Moondae had settled in a temporary living space for those who lacked the resources to rent or own and landed a job through Gunwoo's introduction at a meat restaurant. Moondae recalled when he first began living like this after nearly passing through the pearly gates and thought he had accidentally brought an angel down with him.

As Moondae hurried onto the train, he gathered his wild emotions and once again tried to piece the current reality together.

"I must have regressed like Gunwoo-hyung did," He muttered. Hearing himself speak helped ground himself. "But in my own body? So Gunwoo-hyung is back in his, though it doesn't seem like he remembers what happened..."

Moondae noticed a few eyes on him and quickly sealed his lips, dropping his gaze as his hands naturally came together politely. Maybe he was speaking a bit too loudly in the quiet train.

From the station, he quickly ran to the restaurant, catching his breath once he reached the entrance. He greeted his coworkers and made his way to the back, clocking in and washing his hands.

"Welcome sir, ma'am."

"I would recommend this dish..."

"We have a promotion going on right now, if you purchase this set, then we will give you complementary drinks!"

Niceties of customer service floated from his lips smoothly. His muscle memory began to kick in as he regained routine. While it was still the daytime, company lunches and families with kids still came to visit, filling the house.

In the kitchen, Moondae prepared the meat one of his tables ordered carefully.

"Wow, Park Moondae, you've really gotten the hang of this quickly," The boss came up behind Moondae and heartily gave his shoulder blade a full, loving smack. "I was a bit worried for ya when you first came, but just three weeks in and ya got the basics down. I'm looking forward to your performance next month."

"Ah, th-thank you!" Moondae bowed gratefully, his cheeks blushed light pink. Although it was natural for him to be good at his job after three years, to receive compliments was always self-esteem boosting.

"There was also another reason I came to see you. Do you know some tall guy with dark hair?" The boss asked, pointing his thumb behind him towards the front. "He's looking for you."

"Oh, I think it's a hyung I know, we had plans after my shift," Moondae replied, glancing at the clock that read ten to three. He was almost off, so Gunwoo must be outside waiting.

If he was looking for Moondae before his shift even ended, maybe something had happened? A small flutter of anxiety hit his stomach, but he was sure if it was Gunwoo, then it would be something under control.

"Alright, you go meet him then, I'll take over for you," The boss said. Moondae thanked him and made his way outside.

Moondae went towards the waiting area, trying to suppress his smile by chewing his lips. It had been a while since he had seen Gunwoo face to face. He was looking forward to it.

As he turned the corner, his smile dropped and his eyes went wide.

Standing confidently and attractively was a face Moondae felt like should appear in dreams, but appeared in his nightmares instead. An alluring smile was thrown in his direction and the man turned towards him.

"You must be Park Moondae." His voice was deep, dripping with honey. Enticing and charming.

"Uh? Ah, yes...?" Moondae avoided eye contact, afraid of what would happen if he looked too closely, inviting himself into a trap.

"My name is Shin Jaehyun," Which of course, Moondae knew. He didn't know what Cheongryeo experienced, but to Moondae, it was just yesterday that he witnessed the end of a life by this man's hands.

Those same hands held a business card, one that others would ironically kill to receive. "I'm part of a company called LeTi. Do you know them?"

"Yes... yes, I know them," Moondae accepted the card. It was suspicious not to. Testing the waters, he added, "You're from VTIC, right...?"

Cheongryeo looked pleased. "That's right. I'm looking for members to join the company's upcoming boy group, and think you would be a great fit. What do you think?"

"Upcoming boy group?!" This had to be a joke, right? No such thing happened last time and after learning about the man's history as a regressor, he surely wouldn't allow that to happen during VTIC's prime.

But Moondae had no idea what this Cheongryeo knew, and whether this version of him was the one who had killed TeSTAR's Park Moondae. "Uh, well... I-I don't have any experience! I've never sang or danced before!"

As if expecting this type of response, Cheongryeo replied, as if rehearsed, "Most of us haven't, wouldn't you agree? We all start from somewhere, but we'll give you lessons and prepare you adequately. You can be rest assured that life at LeTi will be comfortable."

Fear climbed up Moondae's spine. This crazy guy was persistent.

"I..." Moondae pulled out as many excuses as he could, "I can't afford the training costs!"

And of course, Cheongryeo had an answer for this type of response, too. "Finances won't be an issue when we've set our eyes on someone we want. The settlement is good, and success is as much as guaranteed under LeTi. Won't you consider it?"

"Um..." Moondae was running out of things to say. Why did Cheongryeo want him so much?

He was average-looking at best, and certainly at work he was not at his best. Not once in his own life had Moondae tried to sing or dance, so Cheongryeo would not have known about him through means other than simply meeting him here today. However, the boss said Cheongryeo had asked for him specifically.

A heavy weight suddenly fell in Moondae's gut.

Did this person think he was...

"Ah...!"

What timing! Could it not have been worse? Moondae desperately wanted to poke out Cheongryeo's eyes that quickly turned from him and onto the person who had just entered the waiting area.

Gunwoo spared no glance at Cheongryeo, but Moondae knew he was trying his hardest not to. He knew about Gunwoo's activities as a data seller and naturally, that meant Gunwoo had to know who VTIC was and by extension had seen them multiple times.

But Gunwoo disliked complicated things, so he looked only towards Moondae.

"Park Moondae," Gunwoo's voice snapped Moondae out his thoughts. "Your shift ends soon, right? I came earlier than expected, but I'll wait for you outside."

Moondae glanced briefly at Cheongryeo, who had an unreadable expression, then back at Gunwoo, who waited for his response.

"Yeah! I'll be out soon, I clock out in ten," He replied, trying to hide his anxiety.

He hated the way Cheongryeo looked at Gunwoo. It was the same way he had looked at Moondae earlier. With interest. But this time, also with hunger.

"Alright," Gunwoo tilted his head towards the entrance, a signal that he would be waiting for Moondae outside. As Gunwoo turned his back, Cheongryeo did the same.

"H-hey! Wait, Ch—" Moondae stopped himself before he could slip and say the wrong name. "S-Shin Jaehyun, sir...!"

But Cheongryeo paid Moondae no mind, like he was no longer interesting to him. The anxiety that fluttered in his stomach returned as Moondae realized Gunwoo had left with his killer following closely behind him.

As he was about to follow the two, the boss yelled from the kitchen. "Hey, Moondae! You done yet? You're needed back here, your replacement only just clocked in, remember?"

Chained at his feet by his work responsibilities, Moondae couldn't leave just yet. He looked at the clock.

Still seven minutes.

Surely nothing can happen in seven minutes on a public street?

Moondae turned his heel and ran back to the kitchen as if he thought completing his tasks quicker would make the time go by faster as well.

— ✩‧₊˚ —

Moondae watched Gunwoo closely. His furrowed brow and slouched lip paired with the white knuckles of his hands that gripped the glass of beer too tightly told Moondae that something was on Gunwoo's mind, and that it wasn't good.

When Moondae had finally left the restaurant and rushed outside, Cheongryeo and Gunwoo were finishing up their conversation and the former had left without much of a word. By then, Gunwoo was already tense.

Moondae had no way of knowing what had happened between the two, but could assume that it wasn't something nice.

And of course it wasn't! Cheongryeo was involved.

"Gunwoo-hyung, is something bothering you?" Moondae asked for the third time that evening.

The same response came back. "It's nothing you need to worry about, Moondae."

"But you don't look so good, was it something to do with that guy you talked with at the restaurant?" Moondae feigned innocence at Cheongryeo's identity.

"Don't worry, just eat," Gunwoo sighed, then took a sip of his drink. "This must be my karma for making a living off of others. It's fine."

"What do you mean...?"

"I mean what I said. Moondae, try not to get involved with weird people like him," Gunwoo advised, though Moondae felt like the man was reprimanding himself more than giving advice.

"Yeah, I will..."

The sinking feeling never left Moondae's gut for the rest of the night, and remained well into the next day.

His fears were confirmed when he could no longer contact Gunwoo.

Shaking, Moondae pressed the call button again, but the call would still not go through. Their last conversation had been one day ago, when Moondae had saw news of Idol Inc. getting a third season.

Aware of Gunwoo's buried ambitions and potential for stardom, Moondae had encouraged Gunwoo to apply. He had been a bit embarrassed when he recalled that Gunwoo was no longer at the age when he could audition and that the last time was only possible because Gunwoo had been using Moondae's body.

But that embarrassment was nothing compared to the anxiety that wrapped around his rib cage. It squeezed all the air out of him and made it hard to register anything properly.

That VTIC guy must have done something. His cunning, indifferent approach to life and others made the evil things that brewed in his mind possible. From kidnapping to hostage-holding, Moondae was not surprised!

And yet Gunwoo had not mentioned anything happening between him and Cheongryeo when the two had met while Moondae was finishing up his work. A small part of him hated that he was not seen as reliable in Gunwoo's eyes.

Maybe Gunwoo didn't want to involve him in whatever was happening, but Moondae's intact memories prevented that anyway.

"Probably because I was assimilated into the System, so my memories..."

Suddenly, a bright blue light flashed above him. Moondae blinked slowly, adjusting, then lifted his head.

"N-No way!"

In front of him was a very familiar-looking window with even more familiar-looking language.

Only, it looked just slightly different.

[ Name: Park Moondae ]

Level: 17

Title: None

Vocal: S-

Dance: B

Visual: A-

Talent: A-

Characteristics: Bacchus500 (B), Catch-All Ears (A), Words of Persuasion (A)

Moondae had summoned the System. Accidentally.

All the traits in the status window were the same as the traits Gunwoo had in the last round as Park Moondae up until death. The only difference was that the real Moondae himself no longer held the infinite potential characteristic.

Of course. That trait was originally Gunwoo's.

Moondae stared at the status window screen. Having been the one to control the status window and its draws for Gunwoo in the last round, Moondae wondered what sort of mechanic was behind this status window now.

He was also now hyper-aware of the fact that the System was now in his head and not Gunwoo's, as it should have been.

Then, another window popped up.

[ Outbreak! ]

[ Status abnormality: Take your star! ]

Red text windows blared like alarms in front of Moondae. 

He swallowed the lump that formed in his throat before it could grow any bigger.

"What... what did I just activate?"

AS if to answer his question, the System charmed.

[ Take your star! If you don't light up all the stars within the time limit, you will die. ]

[ Remaining stars: ☆☆☆☆☆☆ ]

[ Remaining time: D-365 ]

Suddenly, Moondae could empathize with Gunwoo's confusion and stress when he had first opened the status window as the new status abnormality added itself in.

He knew that the System worked in a way that encouraged people to drive towards their ambitions. In the last round, there had been a mix-up and instead pushed Gunwoo to debut in Moondae's body in response to Moondae's wish.

Moondae wondered if the System was still trying to make that wish come true but in a different way now that they were in a new timeline, or if another error had occurred along the way that changed the assigned missions entirely.

Moreover, what did "light up all the stars" even mean? Moondae stared and stared at the status window but got no answers. Lasers would start beaming out of his eyes before he understood what the System wanted.

Moondae took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and thought for a moment.

"Take your star! Hello, we are TeSTAR."

In the last round, "take your star" had been Park Moondae's group's introduction. Surely, this must mean that this status abnormality had something to do with the group.

TeSTAR has seven members, including Moondae himself. However, the System was asking him to light up six stars, and not seven.

In all the past rounds except the last, six out of the seven TeSTAR members had participated in the audition show that had created TeSTAR. That meant, logically, those same six members would still participate in this round, too.

The seventh member Park Moondae, known as Ryu Gunwoo, would not be participating in this life. It was likely that the System was not including Gunwoo in this mission.

"Light up the stars..." Moondae muttered to himself.

He still couldn't make sense of it. All he could think of was that the mission surely had something to do with the six members of TeSTAR.

"...Does that mean," Upon realization, Moondae's back had never straightened so fast before. "I have to meet the TeSTAR members!?"

As the owner of the status window now, the thought unfortunately made sense. Else, why would Moondae have access to see the skills that were central for an idol?

"D-Does that mean I have to become an idol!?"

A new weight landed itself on Moondae's slim shoulders.

Having been suddenly given a new main quest, the next day, Moondae dressed up and made his way to a karaoke booth.

While the timeline did not match up exactly with the past round, Moondae prayed and crossed his fingers that his bet would succeed. He stayed for hours, adding more and more time, singing difficult songs and purposefully hanging out near the door for the sound to leak out.

This cycle continued for a few days. The owners even gave him extra time on the house, having enjoyed suddenly getting a returning customer who could sing well.

"Gunwoo-hyung, you worked hard..." Moondae sighed, slumping down on the couch in the booth. "Now I know how difficult it was to get onto Idol Inc., you really tried your best..."

Moondae feared he had missed the deadline to get into the show. Indeed, it was two months after Gunwoo had woken up in Moondae's body last time, so unless a miracle occurred, things had likely have been doomed since the beginning.

Why did the System give him this mission? Whose wish was Moondae currently addressing?

Then, like another angel from heaven had descended, there was a very anticipated knock on Moondae's door.

Moondae bounced off the couch and hurried to answer it.

"Hello...!"

"Hello," A tired-looking woman greeted Moondae. "I couldn't help but hear you sing, and heard a little bit about Idol Inc.?"

"O-Oh, yeah, yes?" Moondae replied smartly.

"Coincidentally, I'm one of the producers for the third season. My name is Ryu Seorin," Ryu Seorin handed Moondae a business card. "I think you would be a great addition to the show. Please contact me."

"Thank you, thank you," Moondae accepted the business card quickly. "Um, the deadline...?"

"Ah, the show was delayed because we didn't have enough participants," Seorin informed honestly. "I know that doesn't sound good, but please trust me when I say this season will be different."

Although the words she was saying were meant to be hopeful, Seorin herself didn't sound convinced of what was coming out of her own mouth. Despite that, Moondae felt over the moon.

"No worries, I get it, thank you again for the card," Moondae bowed his head in thanks. "I will definitely be in touch!"

"Then we'll be looking forward to that," Seorin gave a light smile. It seemed to take up the last bit of her energy, as she left soon after.

Moondae clutched the business card close to his chest. In his head, he recalled the steps Gunwoo-hyung had taken once he had received the business card.

No matter what "light up the stars" meant, Moondae had to first make sure he could make a good impression on Idol Inc. and to the future TeSTAR members, something Gunwoo had successfully done the last time around.

Moondae just had to do what Gunwoo did.

— ✩‧₊˚ —

Nerves shot up Moondae's spine as a producer called into the waiting room.

"Let's move the set!"

Things were already not exactly going as planned.

Moondae had been sitting silently, fidgeting alone as he and the other seventy-six participants waited for their instructions. Really though, Moondae had been waiting for someone to talk to him.

The first person Ryu Gunwoo in Park Moondae's body had talked to was a participant named Choi Wongil. The middle schooler had come up to Moondae at his own volition, and then became uninterested when he learned that Moondae had never been part of any agency. While Moondae didn't feel nice interacting with someone like that, it was Gunwoo's first interaction.

However, this time, the kid never came up to him. Was it his nerves radiating off of him? Maybe he didn't seem approachable? Or maybe it was because it was Gunwoo and not Moondae who had attracted and talked to Choi Wongil, that nothing had happened so far?

This was very stressful for the twenty year old compared to the twenty-nine year old. Moondae had to once again commend Gunwoo-hyung's mind of steel.

"Participant Lee Sejin B..."

A familiar name resonated through the screen. Moondae looked up to see the face of the man who would soon become known as Keun Sejin to differentiate himself from the child actor Lee Sejin.

"...fifteenth place!"

He had landed in the same place as last time.

Moondae took a deep breath, steadying himself.

"Would the next participant please enter the stage!"

Moondae gripped the microphone and walked out as confidently as he could. Though his knees felt like shaking out of their joints, he stood firmly in place in front of the judges and already seated participants.

Like in the last round, Moondae had been honest about his family background to the writers when he had contacted them after the day in the karaoke booth. While he expected such information to not be exposed for a while, he was still nervous about hanging his laundry on the balcony.

Wait, that also meant he had to be prepared for crazy people to break into his house—!

"Please introduce yourself." The voice of the judge brought Moondae back to reality.

"My name is Park Moondae!" Moondae recited the same words Gunwoo had before. "Please take care of me."

Quiet laughter was heard from the participants. Even one of the judges chuckled a bit.

Somehow, although the words were the same, the feeling of delivery seemed off.

"What, kid, is that all?" One of the instructors asked. It was the same question, but asked in a slightly different way.

"Um, yes, I don't have any experience to introduce." Ouch. Moondae fumbled a bit there, but surely that would be fine?

"Haha, what a unique fellow."

"It's definitely a first."

"Can I look forward to this?"

Moondae took in another deep breath, preparing for the final words of the judges that would come at any moment.

"Then, let's take a look at your performance."

"Yes...!"

Moondae recalled his days in the karaoke booth and the S- rank vocals Gunwoo had reaped with his hard work throughout the years of being with TeSTAR before everything had burned down.

As the familiar tune of T-Holic's Party in Me played, Moondae observed the faces of the judges and the writers that looked as shocked as they had the first time around.

Moondae opened his mouth, letting go of his nerves and pouring his all into the vocals, as if saying, here, have a taste of what we lost.

With the average main vocalist of an idol group hanging around a B+ rank stat, Moondae's A- rank stat in the first round had attracted a lot of attention.

This time around, Idol Inc. received a taste of S- vocals.

While a beautiful voice filled the set, a dark bitterness filled Moondae's head.

It should've been Gunwoo-hyung here, and not him.

He ended the performance perfectly, just like Gunwoo would have.

"Wow! Moondae, you really haven't had any experience before?"

"No."

"Not even in an academy or special lessons?"

"I haven't," Moondae replied.

He filtered out any other praises and answered questions about his singing almost robotically. He reserved those kind words for his brother to tell him later.

"And how about your dance?"

Moondae perked up.

It was time.

"Then, if you could play that song..."

Moondae took on that familiar position with one leg up and a sweet heart formed by his hands next to his face.

While Ryu Gunwoo had been nineteen when the song was released, thus having vivid memory of the trend and experiencing its banning for the entrance exams, Park Moondae was only ten years old. It would be a lie to say he didn't have to actually practice seriously to remember this dance.

With the B rank dance stat, such a feat wasn't too hard to do, but Moondae worried about the change in impact the stat might potentially have as Moondae had a D rank dance stat in the last round, making a memorable dance audition.

Though, thanks to the song choice, it seemed like there was no need to worry.

At least, not that much.

As the cheerful song played and Moondae mechanically followed the rhythm, all but one judge struggled to hold in their laughter. The dance mentor observed the show carefully, jotting down notes.

As the music faded away and Moondae rested his arms back to his sides, the choreographer spoke.

"Moondae, I think I'm noticing some potential here."

Moondae could almost hear the dramatic sound effect that would no doubt be added if his audition were to air among the sea of confused whispers.

"While I'm certainly surprised to see this choice of choreography here, your lines and movements are still rather clean," The dance mentor lifted his notes to read off from. "If it's a dance that everyone can do, but why did MallangDalcom make it look so enticing? It's because, despite the cuteness and simplicity of the dance, they had the charm and skills to make it look cohesive."

Moondae listened silently.

While this was nice to hear, wasn't this a bit bad for the plan of sticking to what Gunwoo-hyung did?

"I agree," SaintU's Youngrin picked up the microphone. "While the song pick was a bit... odd, you didn't appear to be someone who completely lacked any skill in moving your body rhythmically. I think we can look forward to what you have in store for us in the future, Moondae."

"Ah... thank you," Moondae bowed his head.

"Really, for a guy who's only twenty years old and without any prior experience, you've done well," Another judge commented, "I'm sure you can expect some offers coming your way in the future."

"Thank you," Moondae bowed his head again.

The judges then turned towards each other to discuss the ranking. Moondae played with his hands, if just to release his nerves. He prayed and prayed that the right number would appear...

"Park Moondae, seventeenth place! Please make your way to your seat."

The storm had weathered over. Moondae happily trotted over to his seat, almost kissing it upon seeing it.

He also noticed Lee Sejin B in the chair for fifteenth place.

A future TeSTAR member.

"Hello~" Lee Sejin greeted Moondae.

"H-Hello!" Having never interacted with any of the TeSTAR members before despite being so close to them through Gunwoo, Moondae was nervous in front of Sejin.

"You're so good at singing!" Lee Sejin praised, the same way he had praised Moondae in the past.

"Thank you...! I, I think you did a great job too," Moondae's nerves infiltrated his words. His voice shook a bit. Still, he stuck dutifully to his script.

"Really?" Lee Sejin laughed. "My name is Lee Sejin!"

"My name is Park Moondae," Moondae replied, "Please take care of me!"

Moondae was aware this Lee Sejin was not involved with the drug scandal that would appear in a year, and thus did not have any walls built around him. However, he knew that it would be something he'd have to deal with eventually.

How would he get Lee Sejin A to listen to him though...?

Amidst his thoughts, Moondae also realized he had not been given a chance to spin a wheel for new traits like Gunwoo had before after leaving deep impressions on people. This made sense, considering he had been the one to rig it for Gunwoo and there was likely no one to rig it for him now, but it was still another difference that stood out to him.

Silently, Moondae called out to the status window in his mind.

Two windows popped up: the window for his stats and the window with the empty stars.

[ Remaining stars: ☆☆☆☆☆☆ ]

He subtly glanced over to Lee Sejin, who was actively enjoying and engaging with each of the auditions and too engrossed to notice Moondae's staring.

Something would need to happen to this man to get a star to light up, right? That was how Moondae understood the System's mission, but he still didn't know what that "something" had to be. 

He had met him. He had introduced himself. They had talked. Basic interactions were all complete and nothing had changed.

Did Moondae have to befriend him? If so, what did that even mean? Or maybe they had to perform together or do something that TeSTAR's Lee Sejin and Park Moondae had done together? If so, then there would be plenty of chances to do that throughout the audition show, so why even have a mission in the first place?

As Moondae thought over and over about different scenarios, another familiar face appeared.

Seon Ahyeon received his ranking and shyly sat next to Moondae at eighteenth place.

Moondae was horrified. He was so lost in his thoughts he didn't even notice Seon Ahyeon walk in! A horrible first impression already...

As he looked towards Seon Ahyeon, Ahyeon did the same, and the two locked eyes accidentally.

Freezing for a moment like a deer in headlights, Ahyeon stared at Moondae who stared back, then he quickly broke the eye contact and sat down quietly.

Gunwoo hadn't spoken with Ahyeon, so Moondae decided not to make another move.

...but that was really hard to do when this pretty boy followed him around! Moondae wondered how Gunwoo had both the patience and the heartlessness to ignore Ahyeon who stuck to his side in the bus and in the dorms.

Then again, Gunwoo had referred to Ahyeon as one of the normal people amongst the energetic youngsters in the show, so he probably was thankful for the peace and quiet and opted to let the boy do what he wanted.

Still, while Moondae was committed to try and follow in Gunwoo's footsteps throughout the show to guarantee his success in it, a soft spot formed in his heart and he couldn't fight against his own personality.

He loved Gunwoo, but it was exhausting to pretend to be him.

Everything up until now had been fine, right?

A little deviation wouldn't hurt.

Moondae rummaged through his bag to find a familiar treat and peered his head over the railing of the bunk bed to Ahyeon's bed.

"...Seon Ahyeon," He called out, "Are you awake?"

"I-I am," Ahyeon replied gently, careful to not wake the other sleeping roommates. He peered over as well, their eyes meeting once again for the first conversation they had since meeting.

"Would you like a chocolate bar?" Moondae asked, offering the treat to Ahyeon. Gunwoo had carried a lot of these before, so Moondae did the same.

"...! T-Thank you!" Ahyeon accepted the treat carefully. "M-Moondae should eat, too."

"I will, thank you for worrying about me..."

That should've been the end of the conversation. If it was Gunwoo, he would have then bid the other good night and shut down the interaction from there.

Instead, Moondae's hesitance had Ahyeon replying, "O-Of course! M-Moondae... seems t-to be worried about s-something."

"Worried about something..." Moondae thought about Gunwoo and Cheongryeo. The next few words came out on their own, "Yeah. I'm worried about a friend who's like a brother to me."

"I-I see..."

"He's usually so on top of things and knows what to do all the time," Moondae described his saviour to Ahyeon. "He helped me in times of need and gave me lots of advice, but I could never do the same for him, and now I can't reach him anymore. I thought if I participated in the show, then maybe... I'd see him again."

"..."

"The last time I saw him, he had a conversation with this man that I don't trust," Moondae continued in spite of Ahyeon's silence. "And I'm so afraid he's going to do something to Gunwoo-hyung, but I can't do anything."

"M-Moondae..."

"It's my turn to save him, I know it," Moondae slumped in his bed, a sudden wave of sadness crashing over him and weighing him down. "But I don't know where to start. I don't know how to help him on my own."

"You d-don't have to!"

Moondae lifted his head reflexively in response to Ahyeon's sudden confident tone. At the same time, a bright ringing noise sounded out from somewhere, but Ahyeon didn't seem to notice it.

"Moondae..." Ahyeon stepped off his bed and turned to face Moondae properly.

There was a determined fire that lit in Ahyeon's eyes, reflecting off the soft night lamp that was tucked in the corner.

Somehow, perhaps because of the dim lighting, Ahyeon looked just a little bit more mature.

A faint blue light popped in.

[ Congratulations! ]

"I... I w-won't stand by, either."

[ A star has been lit up. ]

Ahyeon—no, TeSTAR's Seon Ahyeon brought his hands up to his chest, tightening his fists.

"I r-remember," He said, a sad and distant expression taking over his features. "Moondae, I remember."

Moondae sat up straight, confused at what was currently happening.

"You... remember...?"

Ahyeon nodded slowly.

"M-Moondae and... VTIC Cheongryeo s-sunbaenim..."

Horror and registration, as if reliving the day the world had crumbled, took hold of Ahyeon's actions. Hands flew up to his face and he stumbled backwards.

Moondae quickly climbed down to steady him.

"M-Moondae is...!"

On the side, the System continued to chime, as if a happy moment had just been recorded.

[ Remaining stars: ★☆☆☆☆☆ ]

As Moondae held Ahyeon's trembling figure that had lost strength and settled on the floor, all the pieces fell into place.

The System's mission and the stars.

Park Moondae was to gather all the TeSTAR members and restore the memories of their missing member.

Chapter Text

Park Moondae was met with another robotic response when he tried to dial Gunwoo's number. Unable to hide his disappointment, he let out a sigh.

"N-No answer again...?" Seon Ahyeon asked, sitting next to him.

"No," Moondae shook his head. After Ahyeon had regained his memories and settled his shock, Moondae told Ahyeon everything that had happened between Moondae's disappearance in the past round, Cheongryeo's unique skill, and all that occurred before he joined Idol Inc..

"I-It's not an ideal s-situation, but I'm sure M—that Ryu Gunwoo is okay," Ahyeon tried to comfort Moondae by looking on the bright side. Moondae knew that it was likely true, that nothing harmful had befallen Gunwoo, but pitting that possibility against the reality that Gunwoo had stopped contacting Moondae after meeting Cheongryeo, his anxiety couldn't settle.

"Yeah," Moondae nodded, clutching his phone tightly. "I hope so."

After discovering the meaning of the System's mission, Moondae's goal had evolved from simply meeting the TeSTAR members to meeting them, conversing with them, and somehow helping them to recall their memories.

When asked about his memory recollection, Ahyeon said there was a sinking feeling in his stomach and what felt like an empty chamber in his heart, while his head told him he was having an epiphany. The forgotten memories' return had ripped through everything he knew.

He hadn't mentioned much about his thoughts upon learning about Cheongryeo's situation. In fact, Ahyeon went uncharacteristically quiet after hearing about it, likely thinking about things Moondae had the emotional intelligence to not point out.

"In a-any case, y-you should go to s-sleep," Ahyeon suggested, "We start f-filming tomorrow."

"Yeah," Moondae glanced at the camera that was in the corner of the room. "I guess it also wouldn't do any good to try calling Gunwoo-hyung while the cameras are rolling later."

"R-Right, so g-get some rest," Ahyeon encouraged, standing up and holding onto the ladder of the bunk bed gently, as if to steady it for Moondae to climb.

Moondae felt shy and thankful towards the small gesture that he wondered if Ahyeon had even done consciously.

Both of them had been through a lot, and would continue to go through much more for Gunwoo. Moondae silently promised himself and Ahyeon to reciprocate the care and attention Ahyeon gave to him.

"Good night, Ahyeon."

"G-Good night, M-Moondae!"

Funnily enough, though it was his own name, Moondae felt a bit torn by the address, which had belonged to Ryu Gunwoo for the duration Ahyeon had known Gunwoo for. In a way, it felt like he was stealing Gunwoo's relationships.

Moondae pulled his blankets over his body and stared at the ceiling.

"...Ahyeon?"

"Y-Yes?"

"You can call me something else," He said, unmoving in his bed, "I know the name Park Moondae isn't associated with me, but with Gunwoo-hyung to you. We can make a nickname or something..."

"O-Oh, I d-don't mind...! S-Sorry if I made you u-uncomfortable, c-calling you..." Though Moondae couldn't see his face, he could tell that Ahyeon's face had flushed red.

"N-No, sorry, that's just me being self-conscious..." Moondae wanted to hide even deeper under his blanket. Ahyeon didn't seem to have a problem with calling him Park Moondae, so why did he? It was his own birth name and his right to use it.

"Um... b-but, I u-understand it," Ahyeon said softly, "S-Someone else w-was in your body and b-became Park Moondae. I don't k-know where you w-were in the l-last round, b-but I think... I think it can be c-conflicting to f-face people who h-had met the o-other person, l-like me."

Moondae hesitated to reply because Ahyeon was right. Maybe he was thinking about others too much, but he felt like the name Park Moondae, especially the one that was known among the members of TeSTAR, was simply not his own anymore. He was the original Park Moondae, but he was not TeSTAR's Park Moondae.

Still, he would have to become the idol to save his idol.

"Thanks for that, Ahyeon," Moondae closed his eyes, focusing for a moment, then spoke again, "But among ourselves, you can call me Keundal."

"K-Keun... dal?"

"Yeah, it was the username I used when I used to watch idol videos," Moondae blushed once he finished his sentence, realizing how young and naive that sounded out loud. "Um... yeah. Just, you can call me that."

"Okay," Ahyeon chirped, a ruffle coming from underneath Moondae. Ahyeon probably smiled and hid it beneath his sheets. "Keundal, then."

Moondae smiled as well. "Yeah."

"G-Good night, Keundal."

"Good night, Ahyeon."

Because of their late night talk and care to attention to try and not wake the other sleeping roommates throughout the night, Moondae felt his eyes shutting slowly by themselves, exhaustion hitting him quickly. His alarm was probably going to go off in a few hours, but at least he had done everything he could today.

He would try and do the same tomorrow, if he had the energy.

Especially since there was dance class.

In the last round, the choreography teacher had expressed his disappointment in Park Moondae's near non-existent dance skills. Now that his skills were at B rank, the choreographer had actually been impressed at the initial audition.

Moondae wondered if he should purposely try and mess things up or if he should just be natural... but if he was suddenly bad when he was decent before, wouldn't that result in an even worse outcome?

His worries lingered into the late morning. Moondae silently walked into the large set with Ahyeon next to him, lining up properly before the cameras began to roll.

Then, his thoughts were interrupted when the screen in front of the trainees lit up. Youngrin had said something earlier, but Moondae hadn't paid attention.

Judging by the video playing on the screen, it was likely something about the show's theme song. Shining Star blasted through the speakers and the dancers in the video moved along to the fresh beat.

When Moondae turned his head slightly to glance at Ahyeon, he was surprised to see the man staring at the screen with determination.

"I-It's the s-same as last time..." He mumbled quietly for Moondae's ears only.

"Yeah..."

It was bittersweet. Moondae glanced at Ahyeon, who watched the screen with a hand over his chest, where his heart thumped beneath. A scary revelation occurred to Moondae, in that there was no person on this planet who didn't wish they could go back in time at least once to fix even the smallest things that went less than ideal in their lives.

Even Moondae was a victim of that feeling. It was his desire that began the whole story.

He felt his head spin. The rush of adrenaline and satisfaction that burst from his newfound determination when Gunwoo was given another chance must have been exactly how Cheongryeo felt when he had opened his eyes in his second round.

Perhaps that ground was the only place Moondae and Cheongryeo could stand on evenly in agreement.

If I could do it all over. Such a thought was a dreamy nightmare that trapped fate in a cyclic web.

Moondae could see some of the trainees attempting to follow the dance moves as the video went, a few already planting it into their memory. Others struggled and a few just stood still, dread and nerves clouding their faces.

Moondae reminded himself to watch his own expression.

"...! I-It's Sejin!"

Just a few meters back was Lee Sejin, who wore the "Lee Sejin B" tag over his shirt that differentiated him from Lee Sejin A, the child actor who would later become known as Bae Sejin. He watched the dance video with interest, a competitive gleam in his eye.

"S-Should we go u-up to him?" Ahyeon whispered, "O-Or should we w-wait for h-him to come up to us? That's w-what happened last time..."

"We should..." Moondae trailed off, debating on the two options. A few moments later, a large shadow came over him, making the decision itself.

"Hi! We all sat together earlier after the initial audition, didn't we?"

Moondae stopped debating.

"Y-Yes! It's... n-nice to meet you," Ahyeon hesitated for a moment before saying those words.

It visibly hurt.

"Nice to meet you too, Ahyeon!" Sejin gave a wide grin, not noticing anything amiss. He was not close enough to either of them to notice.

"And Moondae, we've met before~" He pat Moondae on the shoulder. "How do you two feel about the dance?"

"I-It looks f-fun," Ahyeon said, "I-I'm sure w-we can learn it w-well!"

"Oh yeah, Ahyeon was good at dancing in his audition," Sejin recalled, a finger on his chin. "I think you're going to go straight to the advanced dance class. Of course, that means Moondae will head over to advanced vocal for sure."

Sejin leaned in closely, beckoning the other two to do the same. He whispered, "I daresay Moondae is even better than the mentors!"

"D-Don't say that!" Moondae panicked, instantly denying the claim. "Sejin, your mic..."

"Haha!"

Before Moondae could say any more, a loud "cut!" was heard from the side and a director with a megaphone began yelling instructions to the trainees, mentors, and staff to change filming sites.

"Looks like we gotta go," Sejin saluted before running off. "I have to meet with my agency's other trainees so I'll head out first, but we'll probably see each other in class! Until then!"

Sejin ran off, leaving Ahyeon and Moondae to themselves. Moondae quietly noted how the System had stayed silent throughout the exchange.

Ahyeon checked his microphone, confirming it was off, then he spoke. "Sejin... w-we should be able to g-get his m-memories back too, r-right?"

"I... think so," Moondae silently willed the mission screen to pop up, which remained the same with a single star out of six lit up. "Yeah, we should be able to, but... I don't really know how."

"M-Maybe we have to get c-closer to everyone," Ahyeon suggested, "Y-You and I shared a late night c-conversation, s-so maybe l-like that...?"

"Maybe," Moondae recalled his and Ahyeon's nighttime chat. "At that time, I also kind of alluded to Gunwoo-hyung. Maybe I also have to talk about him somehow?"

"Oh, t-that's true," Ahyeon noted, "B-But it m-might backfire i-if we just suddenly drop s-so much i-information..."

"Yeah," Moondae sighed. This was harder than he thought. "We'll try our best. I'm sure there will be a lot of opportunities to talk to him and the rest of the group during the show. We just have to make sure we get to everyone before it ends..."

The pressure of time suddenly weighed down on Moondae's shoulders. While the System did not display any time limit for his mission, the show's duration replaced that.

Perhaps he and Ahyeon were thinking for a bit too long as a staff member began to make wild arm movements near the back where several other trainees had yet to move to the new site. One arm was piston straight while the other moved at the shoulder, making wide circles, urging the rest of the pack to start heading out.

"W-Well, I-I'll see you a-after class..." Ahyeon sounded a bit dejected since he and Moondae were to split ways, but didn't let too much show on his face. "G-good luck, Keundal...!"

"Yeah," Moondae gave Ahyeon a small smile, which was the best he could do under the stress that began to bubble in his chest. The real show would start now. "Good luck to you too, Ahyeon!"

Moondae watched Ahyeon make his way toward the advanced dance class while he turned his heel the other way to the advanced vocal class.

There, buckets of praise and admiration poured from Coach Mudie's mouth.

"That's it! That's just what I want!" She fawned, clapping her hands together like a proud parent. "A clear voice and excellent tone that make even the highest of notes pleasant to listen to. Park Moondae, you have a great talent."

"T-Thank you..." Moondae blushed hard at the praise, not used to the special treatment. While he was being complimented by the vocal teacher, Moondae also felt like he was being targeted by the other trainees.

"I can't believe you've never had any formal training before this. Simply unbelievable and yet, here you are," Mudie was satisfied, eyes shining at Moondae like a child's at a rare toy. "I'm sure we can expect great performances from you."

"Thank you," Moondae repeated, feeling dizzy.

"Just keep doing what you're doing and you'll be fine for the re-evaluation," Mudie promised, "In fact, I'm looking forward to it, if this is how you sound right after learning the song without practicing it."

"Yes..."

"I think that's a good place to end the lesson," Mudie said, flipping through the profiles of the rest of the trainees. "If you had any questions, honestly, you could probably ask Moondae, but I don't want to pressure him, so still come ask me any time."

Moondae felt his head spin even more. The sentence itself pressured him!

A few trainees gave Moondae their congratulations for clearly becoming the coach's favourite, while others subtly scorned and turned their backs. Feeling slightly overwhelmed, Moondae let himself be pushed around by those complimenting him, politely answering and denying their praises.

"Moondae-hyung is humble, you really are great at singing," A trainee part of the crowd caught Moondae's eye.

"No, no, you're... too kind, Wongil."

Choi Wongil buttered up to Moondae like the other trainees left in the practice room. What felt like a gust of cold wind on his nape made Moondae shiver. While it was obvious not all the trainees who were praising him were genuine, to be aware of that was unnerving.

"If you didn't have any plans, maybe you could teach me some time," Wongil continued, "You have great vocal technique!"

"That, I, um..."

The Choi Wongil who Moondae still had memories of looking down upon and ignoring Park Moondae in the last round was now trying to get on his good side. Whether it was because he determined Moondae to be a valuable team member for future missions or to make connections with someone he thought had potential, Moondae didn't know.

He just knew that Choi Wongil had become jealous of Park Moondae, who he felt had everything. That Park Moondae, who now had nothing.

All who lingered had zero idea of the painful things that the future could hold and what it had held. Small, mindless decisions were made everyday, like choosing to compliment Moondae or choosing to leave the practice room. Would they have chosen differently if they knew how life had ended before this?

Nails dug into his palm, breaching skin.

Surrounded by people, Moondae felt lonely.

— ✩‧₊˚ —

The same routine went on for a week. Sing, dance, sleep, repeat.

With S- vocal skills and B rank dance stats, it was not too challenging for Moondae to keep up with his classes and practice on the side. Since the restoration of Ahyeon's memories, Moondae had scrapped the idea of copying what Gunwoo had done and decided to go at his own pace as his goal changed from ensuring the TeSTAR line up debuted to ensuring the TeSTAR line up had their memories returned. Moondae was sure that the initial goal would follow behind if the new one succeeded.

So, he made use of his cheat and went all out in the second round of evaluations. Part of ensuring TeSTAR restored their memories was making sure that Moondae himself would not be eliminated.

Moondae struck the ending pose to Shining Star just like how Ahyeon had taught him. At the same time, he could feel a bead of nervous sweat slowly roll down his forehead. It was probably shining, too.

"..."

The judges were silent. It was deja vu.

A few times, some of the judges would open their mouths, but close them before they could bring the microphone to their lips, as if unable to decide on what to say. Moondae waited patiently with one hand folded over the other politely in front.

"I think it's safe to say, we're all rather speechless, Moondae," Youngrin gave a smile that Moondae couldn't quite read, but it was a smile nonetheless. "Perhaps we should go from one end to the other. Your thoughts, Coach Mudie?"

Mudie quickly brought the microphone up. "Well, really, it's just as good as it was during the first round of auditions—dare I say, even better since Shining Star gave us a better idea of how flexible Moondae's vocals are... and that tone! I would recognize Moondae from a choir of singers. I'm a fan."

"Thank you..." Moondae bowed deeply. His shoulders felt like they were shaking from exerting so much energy in the performance, but he managed to lift himself back up.

"I guess it's my turn," The choreographer looked down at his notes. "Do you remember what I said when we first met, Moondae?"

"That... that I had potential..." It was a bit embarrassing to say that with his own mouth. Moondae felt his cheeks burn up.

"That's right, and I'm glad I wasn't wrong," The choreographer smiled brightly. "What you showed us today was definitely idol material. While I don't know much about singing, I can tell you're definitely one of the top in the group. As for dancing, you're easily still up there. I thought it would be difficult for you to try and balance out the two skills, but it seems that concern was unnecessary. We can expect great things from you."

"Thank you...!"

Moondae couldn't recall the last time when he had been complimented so much at once. Perhaps it had never happened before. As the judges went on to praise Moondae's performance, he glanced at the other trainees in the crowd, some looking at him in awe and others with envy.

In particular, the shining eyes of a familiar redhead twinkled at him. Cha Yujin had a wide smile on his face as he said something to Kim Raebin beside him.

Moondae had yet to find an opportunity to speak with any of the TeSTAR members apart from Ahyeon and Keun Sejin, but he felt content knowing that he was at least held in decent regard by some of the other members. He would have to keep it up if he wanted to chat with them and fulfill the System's mission.

As the next trainee took the stage looking like he was under quite a bit of pressure, Moondae predicted a high evaluation result for himself.

The next day, a platinum badge rested in his and Ahyeon's hands. Ahyeon, having restored his memories, had naturally restored his grown talent, and managed to show an improved version of himself in this round.

"Wow! Ahyeonahyeon and Moondaemoondae both got platinum, congrats~" Keun Sejin whistled, yet proudly showed off his own gold badge. "Not many of us got platinum, it must be nice!"

"G-Gold is also amazing...!" Ahyeon praised, inching closer to Sejin as if making up for their relationship gap by minimizing their physical gap.

"Right? I'm also proud of myself," Keun Sejin grinned. "Still, I'm just a little jealous that you get to be in the centre for the theme song stage!"

"You're a good dancer, I'm sure they'll put you near the front," Moondae assured. This was the case in the last round.

"Oh, Moondaemoondae is complimenting me~" Sejin teased. "But really, the kid who got the centre is really talented. What was his name again... Cha Yujin?"

Ahyeon and Moondae exchanged a quick glance.

"He's r-really talented!" Ahyeon agreed. While subtle, Moondae noticed a distance Ahyeon's expression held.

"Just goes to show how big the world can get and all the kinds of people in it," Sejin shrugged,
"We just have to work harder too, so we can debut!"

"R-Right...!"

"Oh, and we get a week break after this," Sejin recalled, "Did you two have any plans?"

Before Moondae could reply, Ahyeon exclaimed quickly, "Y-Yes! We did! D-Did you want t-to join us, Sejin?"

"Oh, really?" Sejin glanced at Moondae who had just learned about these plans.

Catching on quickly, Moondae added, "Yeah! Yeah. Ahyeon and I were going to get a meal together and, um, hang out, since, you know, we won't really be able to do that once the show airs and stuff. Did you want to come along?"

"If you're inviting me, then of course!" Sejin chuckled, "We should make a group chat. We're all the same age. right? We'll become the same-age line of Idol Inc.!"

"I-I'd like that!" Ahyeon nodded enthusiastically. "Then, should we s-set a date? W-What works—"

"Trainees, standby!" A loud voice echoed through the large hall. Moondae jumped a bit, having forgotten where the three of them were.

"I guess we'll decide after filming," Moondae said, watching the other trainees quickly get into formation. "Let's meet right outside the hall when we're done so we don't lose each other!"

"O-Okay!"

"We got this," Sejin lifted his fist for Moondae and Ahyeon to bump. "Same-age line!"

With a full heart, Moondae bumped his fist with Sejin's. An oddly warm feeling welled up in him as he watched Ahyeon and Sejin do the same.

Somewhere inside of Keun Sejin were his suppressed memories waiting to be released. While he and Ahyeon had an idea of how to restore them, there were still mysteries and unknowns surrounding the mechanisms and triggers of the memory restoration that they had yet to find out.

Perhaps it would take some time for Sejin to recall his memories, or maybe one conversation alluding to Gunwoo and the past timeline would do, but Moondae hoped to take advantage of their current budding friendship to find the time to try it. Running on a timer, he could only allot so much time per member if he wanted to light up the other five stars.

Amidst his thinking and throughout the recording of the theme song stage, Moondae also wondered deep in his mind how Gunwoo was faring. Had he noticed they haven't contacted each other for a while now? Would Gunwoo find out Moondae was appearing in Idol Inc.? What would he think about that?

Webbed along these thoughts was the faint memory of Cheongryeo's appearance in Idol Inc. in the last round, when he had given Park Moondae an offer from LeTi after a questionnaire determined their personalities to be similar. With Gunwoo not being a part of the show, would Cheongryeo still be interested in Idol Inc.?

It was a thought Moondae scrapped for his own good at the moment. He focused on dancing until the end of the night.

Sweating, out of breath, and skin begging to breathe under countless of makeup touch ups, the filming for the theme song stage ended successfully. Moondae silently thanked the fact that he had Gunwoo's stats from the last round, otherwise he would've definitely gotten sick like Gunwoo did right after. Moondae felt like this new game plus type cheat was a little too beneficial.

As he caught his breath, a fellow platinum participant scurried over to him. Moondae looked up and saw Cha Yujin, who also looked a bit worn, but still shone brightly.

"I saw you at the re-evaluation and watched you a bit today, you are really good," He said with a blank face. It didn't seem like he was too interested in Moondae just yet and was simply pointing out what he noticed.

"Ah, thank you," Moondae bowed slightly, an awkward air hanging over the two. Trying to clear it, Moondae added, "You're also very good, definitely centre material."

"Of course, I work hard," Yujin responded.

...And the conversation came to a close.

Kim Raebin ran over and quickly gave an apology for "this idiot's" curtness and the two went off together. The current first and second place looked like a duo no one could come near and consequently could tear apart. Their hold on their placement and status in the show was unshakeable.

Moondae felt it would be difficult to squeeze into their unintentional clique and restore their memories without help.

"M-Moondae!"

Ahyeon and Keun Sejin came up together towards Moondae, looking worn out themselves. With the cameras off and both staff and crew preparing for their well-deserved and much awaited week break, Sejin had already loosened his uniform.

"That was so long! I'm so tired," Sejin stretched his neck to emphasize his point even more. "I'm so glad they're giving us a break now. They also said the theme song stage would come out during this week before the show itself airs. I'm excited to see it!"

"M-Me too!" Ahyeon exclaimed, "W-We did well, I think. Let's r-rest and meet soon...!"

"Right, what days were you two free?" Sejin took out his phone and reviewed his calendar. "Hm, maybe we should do later in the week after we've rested up some more."

"How a-about Thursday?" Ahyeon suggested, "T-There's a place I-I'd like to take you two to, a-and they have deals on t-that day."

"Sounds good with me," Moondae nodded. He had little to do and was mostly free. "Sejin?"

"Perfect," Sejin nodded, "But one more thing! Give me your guys' numbers, I still want to make that group chat!"

"O-Of course!" Ahyeon readily gave his number to Sejin, chirping out the sequence like notes on a piano.

"Moondaemoondae, you too~"

Having received both numbers, Sejin promptly created a group chat.

"Okay! Let's keep in touch here," Sejin said, "Don't go disappearing!"

"Y-Yes! See you b-both on Thursday," Ahyeon clutched his phone close to his chest with anticipation.

"Alright, I got to catch the train so I'll head out first," Sejin saluted as he head out the door. "See you two soon! Have a good rest."

As Sejin dashed out the door, Ahyeon turned to Moondae. "Keundal, d-did you want a r-ride home? M-My parents are picking me up, so..."

"Oh, don't worry about it, it's alright!" Moondae was touched but denied out of politeness. "I wouldn't want to intrude..."

"I-It's not intruding a-at all! A-And I wanted to t-thank you for e-everything so far, so please...!"

Whether aware of it or not, Ahyeon and suddenly pulled out his lethal card—his face card plus a pair of doe eyes. How could Moondae refuse now? He accepted the offer and shyly followed behind Ahyeon towards his parents' car.

Inside, his mother greeted the two warmly. "My, it's so touching to see our Ahyeon with a new friend! Come in, come in, what was your address? Let's take you back."

"Thank you very much," Moondae had felt a bit nervous, but it had washed away after being greeted by the mother's openness. "I really appreciate it...!"

"Of course, we've heard about you from our son and we'd like to thank you for looking after him," Ahyeon's father jumped in as he punched in Moondae's address and began their journey.

"Ahyeon has also been very attentive to me, I'm very thankful to him too," Moondae said this both to be polite and as an honest comment. 

Ahyeon's existence helped him feel grounded in the new timeline and provided a safe space for him. Even before he had recovered his memories, Ahyeon was the kind and diligent boy one couldn't help but feel attached to. If Moondae were to ask, Ahyeon would surely tell him that Gunwoo who had spoke to him without minding his stutter touched his heart. Now, Ahyeon was the one touching Moondae's heart as he looked out for the other even after finding out he was not the Moondae he knew.

Moondae thanked the Seon family once again as they arrived to his place and bid Ahyeon farewell before Thursday. The car didn't pull out from the curb until Moondae had waved at them one more time after opening the door to his studio. As they left, Moondae closed the door and examined the room.

There was very little inside apart from basic necessities and furniture. A safe was stored beneath the desk with important documents and papers that Moondae needed, which Gunwoo had helped prep with him to receive the assistance he was entitled to. A few medication capsules of sleeping pills were collected on top of the desk, which Moondae had not had time to get rid of since waking up in the new timeline.

Moondae frowned. He'd need to deal with those soon.

He hung up his Idol Inc. uniform and quickly washed up. His own bed, which he had not seen for a while, looked quite enticing.

Yes, he would need to deal with the mess soon, but other things were more important right now.

Moondae slept deeply through the evening, and after some time, the theme song stage was posted. His phone buzzed excitedly with messages from Ahyeon and Keun Sejin, as well as from social media where he had began secretly following people updated with Idol Inc. news. While some were looking forward to the show, the overwhelming majority couldn't let go of the controversy the previous season had left.

Despite the new buzz, all the noise couldn't break through the barrier that separated Gunwoo from Moondae. His phone blinked with notifications from everyone but his brother, all the way up into Thursday.

"M-Maybe it will be d-different when the show s-starts," Ahyeon suggested, noticing Moondae's disappointment, "Idol Inc. still h-has a b-bad reputation..."

"I know," Moondae shut off his phone, slipping it into his pocket in defeat. "I'm just inpatient."

Inpatient felt like putting it lightly. Moondae was beginning to feel a bit helpless, like he'd go mad if he didn't hear back from Gunwoo soon.

Ahyeon didn't say anything, but put a gentle hand on Moondae's shoulder. 

Moondae cleared his thoughts. If he was feeling anxious, who knew what Ahyeon might be feeling right now? He reminded himself that he wasn't alone.

"Hey~ why the long faces? Sejin is here!" A familiar voice called out from the station exit, and a young, tall, and handsome young man came running from it.

Moondae looked between Sejin and Ahyeon, who greeted each other. Suddenly, he truly felt like he was hanging out with celebrities. Even beneath the mask covering their faces, the two TeSTAR members shone.

Ahyeon led Sejin and Moondae to a familiar family restaurant in the area. Having recognized the scenery as a place the same-age line had frequented in the last round and what Ahyeon planned to do, Moondae cleared his throat, attempting to make conversation.

Both Sejin and Ahyeon turned to look at him once they had given their orders to the waiter. Moondae suddenly felt very small.

"Um, I, uh..." Moondae paused to form his sentence, then spoke again. "Y-You looked like you knew this place, have you been here, Sejin?"

"I've been here a few times, it's pretty good. I'm surprised Ahyeon knew it too," Sejin responded, "Do you eat out often, Moondaemoondae?"

"Um," The truth was that Moondae couldn't afford to do that, but he felt that it would turn out to be a bit awkward if he said that right away, so he said instead, "Not really, but I'm not picky, so I can try almost anything!"

"M-Me too!" Ahyeon joined in eagerly. "M-My family likes to g-go out t-together on special o-occasions to different restaurants."

"Oooh, that sounds fun!" Sejin exclaimed, "You're close with your family, Ahyeonahyeon? You told me you live alone, right? Does it get lonely?"

"Ah, s-sometimes... b-but I don't w-want to be a b-burden," Ahyeon replies, "We see each other o-often, so I t-tell myself it's p-part of being an adult..."

"Aww, look at our Ahyeon, all grown up~" Sejin chuckled, wrapping his arm over Ahyeon's shoulders and poking his cheek. Sejin looked at Moondae across the table. "How about you, Moondae?"

Moondae had to tell himself to ignore the quick, nervous glance Ahyeon gave him as his mind halted at the question. While he didn't mind the curiosity and was fine with telling others about his situation, with Sejin, who he was trying to restore the memories of, Moondae feared making a crack in the light atmosphere that would prevent such a thing from happening should he make a mistake and accidentally create distance between him and Sejin.

A friendly "hello!" came out before Moondae's answer as the waiter returned with drinks and a promise that the food would come out shortly. 

"T-That was very fast!" Ahyeon buried his anxiety from moments earlier beneath his words.

"Right? That's why I like it here so much, we're in and out," Sejin passed out the utensils to everyone at the table. "Actually, now that I think about it, I've been here with my family before, too."

"Maybe..." Moondae swallowed back his nerves and said, "Maybe I should bring my hyung here."

Ahyeon perked up and Sejin raised a brow. "Oh?" He said, "You have a brother?"

"He's not my actual older brother, but someone I look up to as one," Moondae took a deep breath, "I think you would like him too. He has a rather stoic personality, but is very caring and cute when you get to know him."

"Sounds like a good guy."

"H-He is! I m-met him before, he's a v-very good person," Ahyeon added, hands waving around, trying to make his point even clearer. "I think, I think Sejin w-would like him, too."

"Oh, yeah? What's his name?" Sejin appeared interested, leaning in closer.

"...Gunwoo," Moondae answered. "Ryu Gunwoo."

Sejin hummed. Resting his chin on his hand, he appeared to be in thought for a moment.

He then said, "Huh... oh! His name sounds super similar to Ryu Chungwoo's! You know, that Olympic archer guy, another participant?"

Oh. A brief silence passed before Ahyeon picked the conversation back up.

"Y-Yes, I've s-seen him around..."

Moondae coughed.

"Uh, yeah, me too."

"No wonder I thought that name sounded familiar. Heh, imagine if they were like cousins or something?" Sejin laughed, "That would make for a crazy family tree."

"Yeah, it would..."

"...?" Sejin continued to smile, but Moondae could tell that he thought something was off. Moondae tried to collect himself back together.

He made another attempt. "Gunwoo-hyung helped me a lot when I was going through a rough time, and I want to pay him back. It's just that I've been having a lot of trouble contacting him these days..."

"From how you're describing him, I wouldn't be surprised if he was a busy guy," Sejin commented casually, "Like a smart big-shot in some company with a secret soft side. Haha, he'd make a pretty popular trainee, yeah?"

"...Yeah."

For some reason, things weren't going anywhere.

Eventually, their food came out and the topic was suddenly changed once more. Even if Moondae or Ahyeon tried to bring up the man again, Sejin showed little concern and even less recognition like Ahyeon had nights prior.

Confirming his suspicions, the System remained silent and still. The single star representing Ahyeon's restored memories was lit up alone, and no other star showed signs of glowing any time soon.

The three parted ways after a successful meet up and an unsuccessful memory restoration session.

With only a few days left of the vacation to do what he pleased, Moondae devout himself to scribbling down in a notebook each time he remembered even the smallest things that happened between Gunwoo and the remaining TeSTAR members on Idol Inc. to milk as much interaction as he could between himself and them now. With virtually zero clue on the pattern as to how memories were restored—if there even was a pattern—it was the most Moondae could do.

On the other hand, his responsibility as a contestant also caught up to him as he monitored netizen reactions and comments to Idol Inc.'s new season. As a platinum-rank trainee dancing in the centre along with the other platinum contestants, there were naturally a few comments about him here and there, though not nearly as much as for Ahyeon and Cha Yujin.

Amidst all this, gun1234 stayed silent.

Moondae navigated onto other webpages as he continued to monitor. New headlines appeared with each hour about Idol Inc., politics, even the weather...

His mouse cursor paused when he saw yet another new title.

=======

[HOT] VTIC COMEBACK SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED! New Face appears at LeTi, who... [NEW!]

=======

Hands trembling, Moondae clicked cautiously on the link.

A familiar face greeted him in the article. With the caption A handsome man walks out of LeTi beneath it, the one Moondae had been chasing appeared so close, yet so far.

Moondae bit his lip until it drew blood.

Gunwoo was in the hands of Cheongryeo.

Chapter Text

There's a lineup of producers wishing to create music for VTIC, some desperate enough to send an entire mini album's worth of songs, hoping for one to be chosen.

Cheongryeo doesn't even need to listen to them anymore. By now, it's implicit memory, the way he scans a song title and the melody plays in his mind on demand. He had spent lifetimes perfecting and re-perfecting VTIC's discography, so of course, Cheongryeo knew what worked and what didn't.

He trashed the useless and ghosted the undesired. What was unneeded for the narrative were sent into the bin.

His finger paused soon after, hovering over a familiar title. Cheongryeo hummed to the old melody, choreography resurfacing in his mind.

He sends a reply back to the producer, asking for a full demo.

Night Sign is officially in production. It's with this tide that Cheongryeo's plan settles into the sand, waiting to sprout.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

Cheongryeo is discussing the comeback schedule with Kim Taein about how to incorporate the invitation for VTIC to appear on a new show when a buzz in his pocket interrupts them.

He excuses himself and turns on his phone to a message from Chaeyul. He's gushing over Gunwoo, how the older man is stoic yet cute, how they've bonded rather quickly, and how he wanted to introduce Gunwoo to the other members quickly.

Alongside those messages are second guesses over what Cheongryeo had Chaeyul do a while back when the two had first met. It seemed as if Chaeyul was having some doubt, but didn't dare express it explicitly.

Cheongryeo replied simply, telling Chaeyul that he needn't worry, and that Gunwoo would be introduced to the others soon.

"Lively as ever," LeTi's CEO Kim Taein commented, having peaked a glance at Cheongryeo's screen.

"Yes," Cheongryeo agreed, slipping his phone back into his pocket. "And with some timing. I actually wanted to discuss something with you regarding Ryu Gunwoo, the person I brought into the company."

"Ah yes, I recall that," Kim Taein muttered, "You really surprised me with that one, you..."

"Haha. I apologize," Cheongryeo wasn't being serious and both of them knew it. "I'd appreciate it if you'd let him shadow VTIC for this comeback."

"Shadow? For what?" Taein's confusion was understandable. He wasn't a trainee and he was a newbie in the company.

"I have some plans underway," Cheongryeo didn't miss the way Taein subtly swallowed something back, as if fearing what the VTIC leader would say next. "There's reasonable evidence for concern surrounding one of the members. I won't say what yet, but I hope you'd let me handle it myself."

"I don't understand what that has to do with Ryu Gunwoo, but fine," Taein sighed with a dismissive wave of his hand. "To think VTIC has a problematic member. The media would eat that up. I'm sure I don't have to tell Mr. Perfect Idol this, but don't make any mistakes. We'll both pay the price if you do."

Cheongryeo smiled. "Of course."

His mistakes were all buried in the past anyway.

"And are you sure that Ryu Gunwoo won't leak anything about the comeback if he shadows VTIC?" Taein asks, "There are always people vying to be the first to report what you boys are doing."

"You can trust him," Cheongryeo reassured, "In fact, he'd probably even ask you not to tell him anything unnecessary because he doesn't want to be involved."

"Well, as long as he's smart about it," Taein glanced at the clock that hung above the desk on the wall. "Go on, now. Chaeyul texting you means that he and Judan are going to wrap up filming that variety show recording soon."

"Yes, yes," Cheongryeo picked up the car keys from the desk. "You'd think that by now, VTIC would have more managers so the members themselves aren't left with these kinds of odd jobs."

Taein replied flatly, "You were the one who said you didn't need a backup this time."

"I know," Cheongryeo smiled, turning his back to head out the door. "But you know what to say if a certain someone asks."

Without looking back to assess Taein's expression, Cheongryeo heads out of the CEO's office. Against the wall is the man of the hour, Ryu Gunwoo, silently scrolling on his phone, arms crossed over each other. On the reflection of his glasses lens, Cheongryeo can make out some kind of forum page.

He dangles the keys by his fingers, shaking them. When Gunwoo looks up, Cheongryeo says, "Let's go, hyung."

This time, Gunwoo is the one taking the wheel. For most of the ride, it's silent, but neither of them seem to care. Cheongryeo is organizing his notes again for the meeting of VTIC's PR team later in the day, while Gunwoo keeps his eyes focused on the road.

As they turn the corner and begin pulling up to the studio, Gunwoo breaks the silence.

"Idol Inc. season three is airing soon."

"So I've heard."

"..."

Cheongryeo puts down his phone and turns attention to the road. Although he's talking to Gunwoo, neither of them look each other in the eye.

"I saw the theme song stage. It was uploaded a few days ago."

"I see."

Gunwoo puts the car into park and unbuckles his seat belt.

"Moondae was there."

Cheongryeo unbuckles his own seat belt.

"He hasn't contacted me in a while, which is uncommon, and suddenly he is on that show," For the first time during this conversation, Gunwoo turns toward Cheongryeo. "Did you do something?"

Cheongryeo puts on an amicable expression. "It seems that Moondae heeded my words and tried out a new path. Are you not happy, instead?"

"What does that have to do with anything?" Gunwoo repeats his question with emphasis, "Did you do something, Shin Jaehyun?"

"Hyung, I don't even have his number, how can I contact him? I'm more surprised that he didn't tell you anything."

Gunwoo turns his eyes back to the front and slouches his back into the chair. He's silent for a moment before he says, "He was near the centre of the stage. It looked like he was doing well."

Cheongryeo hummed, urging Gunwoo to continue.

"But he never told me anything and suddenly stopped texting me. I can't find his number on my old or new phone, and I haven't memorized his number. I didn't think we would keep in touch, so I never bothered."

Cheongryeo nods silently.

"What is he doing on Idol Inc.?" Gunwoo muttered. He sounded like how he looked, which was confused, sad, and frustrated all at once.

"Hyung, it's already gotten to this point, so you might as well just try to support him," Cheongryeo placed a hand on Gunwoo's shoulder, patting gently. "He will also be busy with the show, so perhaps you should reach out when it ends, or maybe he will."

"..." Cheongryeo felt like there was still something weighing on Gunwoo's mind, but didn't ask.

Gunwoo replies slowly. He doesn't seem to want to agree with Cheongryeo, but logically, he needs to. "You're right. Early momentum is key in a survival show. Trainees who are in the top ranks in the beginning tend to debut."

"I was sure you knew that," Cheongryeo gives two more pats onto Gunwoo's shoulder. "What you can do for him now is wish him luck."

There's still remnants of that expression weighing on Gunwoo's face. He puts the car in park and sighs. "I'll try again later."

The other man's hands, which had went to open the car door, twitched slightly after hearing those words. Cheongryeo stretches his lips upwards, but doesn't say a word.

He thinks about the invitation he and Kim Taein had discussed earlier. An invitation for VTIC to appear on a certain show in place of and representing casting managers for LeTi.

In both the last life and this one, Cheongryeo scoffed at the confidence Idol Inc. Season 3 had suddenly gained after its successful launch. Perhaps it wasn't even confidence, but desperation, when they asked large companies to send their A-list idols to their puny show.

This time was no different. Cheongryeo shoved the lame invitation to the depths of his mind.

Cheongryeo and Gunwoo made their way to the studio. Inside, staff are surprised to see him and greet him endlessly, overly friendly as they guide him and Gunwoo to the filming site. Whispers and darting eyes go between isolated filming staff cliques and Gunwoo, who doesn't seem to be phased if he noticed the attention.

Chaeyul and Judan appear happy to see them. Chaeyul bounces over with Judan following closely behind.

"Jaehyun-hyung, Gunwoo-hyung," He greets smiling. The shoot appeared to have gone well if the bright expression was anything to go off by.

Beside Chaeyul, Judan looks between Cheongryeo and Gunwoo. It was their first time meeting.

"Judan, this is Ryu Gunwoo. He'll be staying with us for a while," Cheongryeo explained, introducing both men to each other. "Gunwoo-hyung, this is Jung Woodan, or Judan, VTIC's youngest member."

"Nice to meet you, Gunwoo-hyung."

"You as well."

Judan looks between Cheongryeo and Gunwoo again, a beat passing before he asks, "Are you a new manager?"

"No," Gunwoo replies quickly, which has Cheongryeo raising a brow.

"Oh, okay."

That was as far as the exchange went. Cheongryeo tells Chaeyul and Judan to collect their belongings before they left the studio, and the two rush off quickly. As Gunwoo turns to leave, likely wanting to avoid any more awkward interaction between himself and Judan, Cheongryeo calls out to him.

"Gunwoo-hyung," He says, and Gunwoo turns his head to acknowledge him, but doesn't quite face Cheongryeo exactly. "Do you hate the idea that much, or were you surprised?"

Gunwoo doesn't answer for a while. Cheongryeo can almost see steam rising from his head with how active his brain seemed to be, trying to generate an answer. If Cheongryeo had worded that question like he was hinting or trying to pry at something, that was for Gunwoo to decide whether he interpreted it that way or not.

Silence stretched on long enough that the other person would have thought Gunwoo did not want to respond.

Gunwoo finally replied, "It's just not in my job description."

"I see."

Despite his words, Gunwoo still turns to return to the car first, like an actual manager would do. Cheongryeo would guess that the man would even pull it up in front of the entrance so that Chaeyul and Judan wouldn't have to haul their bags across the parking lot.

Cheongryeo turns his attention back behind him, where he had felt Chaeyul's curious gaze for a while. He strolls up to him and Judan casually.

"I still feel a bit bad," Chaeyul mumbles silently. "Did we really need to do that to his phone?"

"You know it's necessary, so why are you asking?" Cheongryeo reminds him.

"Right, but still..."

Cheongryeo reassures Chaeyul that it's all part of a larger cause. On the side, Judan silently watches them converse.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

It's been three weeks since then.

Gunwoo has been busy helping with the preparations for VTIC's comeback, so he and Cheongryeo hadn't met for a while, as one was stuck in the office while the other was stuck in the practice room.

Kim Taein had, as expected, let Cheongryeo did as he pleased with the new recruit, even if that meant showing Gunwoo sensitive information that could cost millions if leaked. Typically, VTIC comebacks were kept on the down-low, so why their leader suddenly brought in a stranger, no one had a clue.

While there were complaints here and there about a handsome guy who caught a gig at the biggest entertainment company through his connections, ill gossip was quickly shut down as Gunwoo began handling the majority of the scheduling process using his niche idol entertainment knowledge.

"Hyung really has a good eye for people," Judan mentioned once in between practice. "If you had met Gunwoo-hyung a few years earlier, I think hyung would've brought him into the group."

"Hm. If only," if only Cheongryeo had regressed a few years earlier like he usually did.

"But I think Gunwoo-hyung is pretty good at this kind of office work," Chaeyul commented, "I don't know what he did before, but it kind of suits him, being an intellect or something like that, right?"

"Sure looks like one," Sinoh agreed. "But he's handsome, too."

"He's on the older side, though," Bihan doesn't look up from his phone. In the mirror's reflection, Cheongryeo can see a gossip forum. His lips curve upwards.

"I guess," Sinoh seemed slightly disappointed. "Oh, but can he even sing? Or dance?"

"What about rap?"

"That'd be funny! Imagine Gunwoo-hyung's expressionless face, rapping like two hundred syllables per minute."

"Two hundred? I'd need to playback the song in slow-mo to understand what he's saying."

Laughter erupts from the centre of the practice room. Aside from their leader, who didn't participate in these types of conversations much, only one member was silent, clutching their phone until their knuckles went white.

Cheongryeo returned to the back of the room where the speaker's control panel was. "Alright, let's get back to practice."

And like that, six hours flew by.

Chaeyul left first, having to catch a flight going down south for a variety show shoot. With free schedules and wishing their centre the best of luck with his busy one, Judan and Sinoh left together. Cheongryeo unplugged his laptop from the speaker, safely storing away the songs that the group had practiced to.

In his periphery, the last member had a solemn look on his face. If he had the guts, he'd probably glare at the leader, but since he didn't, his angry eyes remained fixed on the ground. He got up only several minutes later, processing whatever was going through his head.

If Bihan could, Cheongryeo thought that he'd storm off, heavy footsteps slamming against the wooden floor. After so many years, it was easy for Cheongryeo to read the majority of people, not to mention the trainees he had spent so much time together with. Choi Taejun was a person who, on average, was difficult to read and came off as a pleasant boy who worked hard. Now, Cheongryeo could only see the bitter venom that dripped from his every word.

Cheongryeo shut the lid of his laptop down gently, running a hand over the smooth surface with a satisfied smile. He and VTIC would have to deal with a few mean comments for a while, but the payoff would be worth it.

Besides, there were other things the Internet was paying attention to now. When Cheongryeo opened his social media, it was even the first thing that appeared on his feed, despite not interacting with the material whatsoever.

"October..." Cheongryeo mumbled. He recalled the buzz Park Moondae's group had created in the last timeline. It had emerged again. The real Park Moondae was attempting to redo the past.

As expected, the boy easy to read enough and it was clear he joined the show to get on equal footing with Cheongryeo who had exclusive access to Gunwoo. He would need to debut and ensure that the group succeeded first though, and Cheongryeo wasn't sure if he possessed the same star quality Gunwoo appeared to be born with to make that happen.

Yes, it seemed like the twenty-six year old man had unlimited potential. Had he debuted in his teens like Cheongryeo had, perhaps the biggest group wouldn't be VTIC, but whatever group had the seemingly lucky, but expertly calculated, charm that was Ryu Gunwoo.

He was an example of life not existing to serve those who have it. A shame. Cheongryeo wondered what Ryu Gunwoo would do if he had the same restarting power as he did.

Cheongryeo placed a hand over his mouth to suppress a laugh, thoughts returning to Park Moondae. It was almost cute how the boy thought he could stand a chance when Cheongryeo already knew what the future would bring both of them should Park Moondae stay in the show.

Just because he would become an idol didn't mean that Cheongryeo would let Park Moondae meet with Ryu Gunwoo that easily.

In his pocket, Cheongryeo's phone buzzes. A PR staff member had sent out an email to all the VTIC and PR team members that the next general meeting for their comeback was in a few hours and to not be late, as it was the penultimate one before the schedule would go up. That also meant that the draft concept for the next comeback would be introduced.

He recalled the demo he had received weeks prior. Night Sign. Cheongryeo could recall this era like the back of his hand, as it had been released a week before Idol Inc.'s group debuted. The unsuspecting group Cheongryeo had seen fail so many times had won against them, shattering what Cheongryeo had believed to be fact and fate that the survival group was below him.

If he wasn't careful, such a thing could happen again. While Park Moondae was barely the threat Ryu Gunwoo was, if he could defeat the latter, then the former was no issue.

He rings Gunwoo's phone.

"What?"

"Hello, hyung," Cheongryeo greets politely, ignoring the lack thereof from the other side. "Are you busy?"

"Why?"

"I thought I'd ask if you could join me for an outing later."

"..." When the line goes silent, Cheongryeo speaks again.

"Actually, hyung," Cheongryeo's tone goes up two notches. "I was hoping to ask for some advice from you, do you think you'd be able to help?"

"Advice? It's hard to believe someone like you would need advice," Gunwoo's usual sharp remarks come out before he pauses and says slowly, "...For what?"

His voice goes all gentle. Cheongryeo stifles a laugh. "Since VTIC is already in its eighth year, it's only natural that our members are starting to look out for opportunities like solos. Despite that, I still want to keep our group's dynamic. Do you think you could give me some pointers on how to do that?"

"You're asking me something like this?" Cheongryeo can almost see the way Gunwoo's brow lifts.

"I'm sure you've seen groups that went through soft disbandment after reaching this kind of stage," Cheongryeo urged, "Surely you'd be able to tell me how to make sure VTIC doesn't end up like that."

"I don't think that's something VTIC needs to be concerned about," Gunwoo takes a moment to think before continuing, "But I can give you some tips, if you really need them."

"Thank you, Gunwoo-hyung," Cheongryeo's voice goes up an octave. "You're truly a lifesaver."

"Text me the time and place."

"Yes."

And the line goes silent. Cheongryeo brings a hand to his lips, squeezing his fingers like he wants to pull down the smile threatening to lift.

Easy. Ryu Gunwoo was so easy.

Ironically, Cheongryeo thought, that saviour complex of his would be Gunwoo's downfall one day.

Well, as long as no one else but me exploits it. That would be fine.

He sends directions to a coin karaoke place open twenty-four hours near the company and asks Gunwoo if he can meet later at night to avoid the crowds. Once Cheongryeo receives the OK, he opens his calendar and checks his remaining schedule for the day.

One meeting at six, then more practice at seven. It's three o'clock, so Cheongryeo is blessed with some rare free time.

He can hear Chaeyul whispering in his ear about how much of a workaholic he is when Cheongryeo returns home to boot up his computer and monitor celebrity and idol gossip. He swats the fly buzzing near his ear away.

With their anticipated comeback, VTIC is trending at number one. It's hardly a surprise, and the comments within the hashtag less so. Cheongryeo had not cultivated lifetimes' worth of experience Internet damage controlling to allow shady comments in light spaces.

Following not so far behind is, again, Idol Inc., clips featuring the behind the scenes of the first group stages. October 31 is on the thumbnail, having had the most impact out of all the stages. It was a group that consisted of four of the previous show winners.

Park Moondae is also one of the few trainees with a platinum ranking, along with Seon Ahyeon, which had not happened last round. While Cheongryeo had minimal interaction with the latter, he was aware that Seon Ahyeon had glued himself to TeSTAR's Park Moondae since the beginning.

A suspicion passed through his mind, but there was no proof yet, so Cheongryeo let it go.

A post about Park Moondae and Seon Ahyeon appeared as he scrolled, with a staggering number of upvotes and shares. It's just a compilation of the two throughout the episodes that had been released, Cheongryeo notices, but it seems that their pairing had become popular.

=======

omg! look at how cute they are #seonahyeon #parkmoondae #idolinc3

[compilation_ahmoon.vid]

🗨️ 203 ↺ 14.2k ♡ 20.9k

=======

┗ NEW SHIPPPP ALERT

┗ who is that with the blonde hair SO pretty

┗┗ baby deer, seon ahyeon!

┗ the way ahyeon just follows moondae around like a baby chick, adorable...

┗ lolll theyre glued to the hip

The CP fans made a lot of noise. Whether intentional or not, the attention garnered by Seon Ahyeon and Park Moondae's relationship was no small amount. Cheongryeo wondered if Park Moondae was smart enough to cultivate this attention on purpose, but put it past the boy.

Although, it would be interesting to see the naive, actual twenty-year-old grow crafty and cunning if Cheongryeo pushed his buttons enough. With an amused grin, Cheongryeo stores away the thought.

Shutting off his computer, Cheongryeo takes the remainder of the time for some rare rest. There's two hours left until the meeting.

There's two hours left until the future of VTIC dives head first into the deep end.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

It's tense in the meeting room. As discussions surrounding VTIC's upcoming comeback comes to an end, the group's leader requests that the members and Gunwoo stay a little overtime as the regular office employees step out.

The air becomes cold and heavy. Cheongryeo glances at each member briefly, eyes lingering for a little longer on one of them.

He then smiles. "This won't take long. I just wanted to know how things were going at a personal level. Shall we go around the table? Let's start with Bihan."

Bihan's expression tightens, but he doesn't argue back. "It's going fine."

"Is that all you have to say?"

"What else would there be?"

Cheongryeo wastes no more breath on the man and moves on. His body turns to the other side, "How about our youngest, Judan?"

"Everything is fine, too," Judan replies smartly. His usual composure is dampened to fit the mood, like he doesn't want to set Cheongryeo off on something.

"And you two?"

Sinoh and Chaeyul sat closely together, awkwardly exchanging looks as they fidgeted beneath their leader's gaze. Sinoh not-so-subtly elbowed Chaeyul, urging the other man to say something.

"We're doing good, too," Chaeyul said hurriedly. "Um, why are you asking, hyung?"

"It's nothing major, I was just curious," Cheongryeo replies. He then crosses one leg over the other, signalling the end of formalities and the beginning of business. "It's good to hear that everyone has been doing their part and preparing. On that note, I have an announcement to make."

The members of VTIC look at each other, then at their leader. Cheongryeo, having worked with them in so many rounds before this one, could tell by now the feelings they held behind their eyes.

Cheongryeo lifted a hand and gestured at Gunwoo. "Gunwoo-hyung will be taking over our manager's position."

"What?"

"What?!"

"Huh?"

Cheongryeo didn't have to turn around to know that Gunwoo's head had snapped towards his direction.

"I didn't hear anything about this," Gunwoo's eyes are more angry than they are surprised, but there's no true malice there.

"I just announced it today, that's why," Cheongryeo smiles, placing his chin on his hands, elbows resting on the table. "Our CEO has yet to confirm this transfer, but you can begin your duties immediately."

"Are you sure that's okay, hyung?" Sinoh looks to be worried. "I know the CEO lets you do a lot of things, but something as decisive as this is a bit..."

"A-And he'll be privy to all our activities! Sorry if I offend you, Gunwoo-hyung, but Leader, how can we trust someone we only just met with those sort of things?" Chaeyul asks, shooting up from his chair. It almost falls over, but Sinoh catches it swiftly.

Chaeyul was kind and friendly, but knew where to draw the line in professional matters. A tact that not a lot of people had which Cheongryeo appreciated.

"I understand your concerns, and they're all valid," Cheongryeo adjusts his shirt collar—a nonchalant display. "But when have I made a wrong decision?"

The room responds with silence. There is no answer to a question that can't even be asked.

"Will Mr. Kim Taein approve of this?" Gunwoo asks. It's almost like a final attempt at changing Cheongryeo's mind. Unfortunately, that didn't happen much.

"While he hasn't yet formally, I've already spoken with him. Don't worry," Cheongryeo reads the time on his watch as he stands from his seat. "I'm sure as well that you'll enjoy the new responsibility, hyung."

Gunwoo doesn't argue back. It's a fruitless attempt.

"So, starting tomorrow, I'd like for all the members to send their individual schedules to Gunwoo-hyung," Cheongryeo announces with finality. "He will need time to organize them, so please be patient as the transfer is done in the background. In the meantime, if you don't know what you should be doing related to promotions at any time, message me first."

"Yes!"

"Then, we're done here," Cheongryeo collects his bag and smiles. "Feel free to leave, everyone. Remember we still have practice at seven. Good work today."

The VTIC members slowly trickle out of the room one by one, heads spending more energy processing the news than walking. Gunwoo remains, arms crossed and an irritated expression clouding over his face.

"Shin Jaehyun, what are you plotting this time?"

Cheongryeo puts his hands up. "I'm not plotting anything, hyung. I really do feel like you would be happier as our manager than being cooped up in an office all day."

"You think I'm unaware of the labour idol group managers go through? One for a group as busy as VTIC, no less," Gunwoo sighs heavily, pushing his glasses up his nose bridge.

"It's good to be busy," Cheongryeo replies sweetly. "And as much as you deny it, you are a sociable man at heart."

"Say what you want."

"Haha," Cheongryeo's smile lifts up to his eyes. It's genuine. "On the other hand, you are still free later tonight, yes?"

"Yes," Gunwoo confirms, "I'll meet you there."

"Great."

Gunwoo leaves the meeting room first, hand massaging his head, likely exhausted from what the man would define as Cheongryeo's inconsiderately playful handling of his person. From blackmail to LeTi employee to VTIC manager, it was a pipeline one would never think could connect.

Cheongryeo pulls out his phone. It's twenty minutes to seven. He makes his way to the practice room early to set up before the other members joined him again, and no doubt with comments about his sudden announcement that they didn't want Gunwoo to hear.

He also texts Kim Taein a candid message, telling him to fill in the empty VTIC manager position.

As the clock strikes seven, Cheongryeo blocks out the members' complaints and pushes straight to practice. The upcoming song blasts through the speakers, as well as a few notable b-sides that would be performed at fanmeets. It's a standard, usual practice session.

"Jaehyun-hyung."

Bihan comes up to Cheongryeo as he unplugs his laptop from the speaker.

Cheongryeo doesn't look at the member yet as he says, "Yes?"

"Do you still regularly monitor social media?"

It's a question that has Cheongryeo pausing mid-action. Though, the pause in itself is an act. "Of course, why do you ask?"

"Then you know what people have been saying about us, and me, recently," Bihan says, a sour undertone in his voice.

"Do you want to clarify? People say all sorts of things online," Cheongryeo slings his bag over his shoulder. "Don't worry, there's nothing on the Internet about VTIC that doesn't go under my radar."

Bihan bites back a response. Cheongryeo can almost hear the metalwork in his head as he waits for Bihan to speak.

After a minute, Bihan turns his back. "Sorry. It's not important, it'll go away once the comeback is released."

"Alright," Cheongryeo says to Bihan's disappearing back, "But don't hesitate to reach out, Bihan."

Bihan gives a half-hearted wave in response. "Right."

"Right," Cheongryeo repeats, "Again, remember that there's nothing on the Internet about VTIC that escapes my radar."

The way Bihan moves makes Cheongryeo think he's going to slam the practice room door, but he doesn't, softening his grip on the handle at the last second.

Cheongryeo finishes packing his bag, once again checking his watch. After a quick shower, he'll be on his way to meet Gunwoo at the coin karaoke.

Cheongryeo closes the lights and locks the door.

Yes, as Cheongryeo had reiterated to Bihan and confirmed before the meeting today, there was nothing on the Internet about VTIC that was unnoticed or came as a surprise.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

The lights are dim and noise is muffled in the small karaoke room. It's a perfect place to meet inconspicuously.

Gunwoo is already inside when Cheongryeo arrives, some trot instrumental playing on the screen.

"You listen to trot?"

"I just know the song."

"I see," Cheongryeo puts his things down and takes a seat next to Gunwoo.

The rest of the song plays out before either of the two speak again. The next song in cue is a song from a girl group that was popular ten years ago.

"You wanted advice for VTIC," Gunwoo begins, his eyes directed at the screen where the lyrics were getting highlighted over and over. "But I don't see a problem with the way things are going, especially in the meeting today. They all seem to do what you say."

"Is that so? Well, I know that much," Cheongryeo says, leaning back against the soft sofa. "But I know they all have ambitions. I just want to make sure their names are still connected to VTIC even if their solo careers go beyond what the group can offer them."

"It's true some solo careers of a few groups have ended up outshining past activities," Gunwoo cues another song. "But VTIC as a group has been going strong for eight years. If you keep a regular comeback schedule like you are right now, I don't see this being a future VTIC will have to worry about in the coming years."

"Spoken like a true entertainment industry insider," Cheongryeo smiles, accepting the remote to cue songs offered wordlessly by Gunwoo. "Then what if LeTi were to release another entertainer?"

"There are plans for that?" Gunwoo turned to Cheongryeo, surprised, but quickly turned away again. "No, actually, don't answer that. It's not something I need to know."

"Cute," Cheongryeo laughs. "No, there are no plans for that right now, but it's almost about time, don't you think? Not to mention there are plenty of talented trainees LeTi has. It's been eight years since VTIC, where would the surprise of another group come from?"

"I suppose," Gunwoo thinks for a bit. "Though I still don't think they would overshadow VTIC, rather, the new group would get exposure for being VTIC's junior group and from LeTi. Moreover, there's that survival show ongoing. People would be more focused on the rivalry between all the new rookie groups rather than the individual groups themselves."

"A fair point," Cheongryeo smiled. He had the same thought. It was truly fun, speaking with someone who thought so similarly to yourself. "I suppose I was overthinking."

"A rare occurrence for you."

"Haha. It happens to the best of us."

The song on the screen changes, and it's a VTIC song. Gunwoo raises a brow, having not cued it.

"Go on, hyung," Cheongryeo passes a microphone to Gunwoo. "You don't want me to expose myself by singing a VTIC song in a public karaoke place, right? Besides, I rented this room for two hours, we shouldn't let it go to waste."

Gunwoo sighs, but takes the microphone. The first verse goes into the chorus, and Gunwoo picks up from there.

The song is Star, which had come out earlier this year. The lyrics were written by Cheongryeo, so he had an attachment to the song. It was symbolic in a way, how Gunwoo was singing a song, going along with its story that had been written and determined by Cheongryeo.

Furthermore, he was not bad. Actually, Gunwoo was good. A clear tone rung underneath untrained vocals. It was an unpolished natural talent that Cheongryeo had heard thousands of throughout his lifetimes.

He relaxed into the voice. For some reason, the song ended sooner than Cheongryeo had thought it would.

"You have a nice voice, hyung."

"Don't jest."

"I'm serious," Cheongryeo turns to Gunwoo, and eye contact is made for the first time since he entered the booth.

"Sure. Thank you," Gunwoo doesn't argue this time and shoves the microphone to Cheongryeo, breaking the eye contact. "Now it's your turn."

"Hm, what did I say about risking me getting recognized?" Cheongryeo laughs at the deadpan Gunwoo gives in response. "Haha, alright. Cue something for me."

Gunwoo puts on a song that, once again, had trended over ten years ago. Cheongryeo fights down the urge to ask if Gunwoo had an idol phase in his pre-teen years.

Cheongryeo sings, he cues, then Gunwoo sings, and repeat.

The night is long. A few more coins are inserted into the machine.

Chapter Text

"I will pick Participant Park Moondae!"

Moondae quickly shuffled over from the participants area to the standing area where he had been called to join Kim Raebin's team. He politely greeted the younger man who he had yet to converse one on one with before lining up behind him.

In his chest, Moondae felt like his heart was going into overdrive. With the second stage already upon him, this was his second chance to properly converse with another TeSTAR member.

The curtain of the October 31 stage had closed without any problems, but without any advancements, either. Heavy tension had radiated off of Lee Sejin A, dampening his and Ahyeon's spirits.

Any outsider would reasonably believe that the child actor had yet to come off his high horse and would possibly even feel offended by his lack of motivation when compared to the other desperate trainees, but Moondae could only feel sorry for the man who in truth was still battling with his company.

Now, it was time for the second stage.

"Cha Yujin!"

Fiery red hair bounced over and joined the line. Yujin tapped Moondae's shoulder and gave him a cheeky smile.

"We're really on the same team now!" If his expression didn't already give it away, his hyper voice completed Yujin's excited image. "I wonder what our stage will be like, Moondae-hyung!"

The friendly and outgoing aura Yujin emitted made the shy Moondae's head go in circles, but he smiled through it.

"Y-Yeah!"

"I will be in your care," Raebin politely turned to his final lineup of team members and bowed towards them. Yujin slugged an arm around his rising figure and examined the group.

"So what song do we want to do?" He asks.

"Something fun and eye-catching would be nice," Ryu Chungwoo puts a hand to his chin, thinking. "But did anyone have anything specific they had in mind?"

"What about you, hyung?" Moondae gently asks Lee Sejin A, who had been in his last team. The participant startles a bit, not expecting to have been asked.

"I... I want to do Base."

"Not a bad idea! I also want to do Base~" Yujin hums and sings the addicting song, "The ringing heartbeat~"

"It could end up as a nice stage," Chungwoo agreed, "Let's hope we can get Base or something similar, then."

Chungwoo's calm and comforting aura seemed to spread to the other members who responded positively to his words. Moondae thought that this leader-type hyung shared a few similar traits to Gunwoo. Perhaps that was also one of the reasons Moondae himself felt drawn to him.

He paused his thoughts as the announcer introduced the rules for the song selection. Each team would have to elect a leader who would then run to grab items that represented each song.

"Oh right, who should we choose as leader?"

"Isn't Chungwoo-hyung the obvious choice?" Yujin gave a thumbs up to Chungwoo. "What do you say?"

"If you don't mind, then," Chungwoo answered with a smile. Somehow, it seemed a bit strained.

"Hm, but what should I try to get?" Chungwoo looks to the end of the hall, where items representing each song are placed on a table. "We need to figure out which item is for which song."

"That's a bit difficult, considering it's the songwriter's stuff," Sejin mumbled, "I don't think they'll have as much relation as we think..."

"Sejin-hyung has a point," Moondae offered his own words, if just to comfort the anxious older member. "It could be like something that has sentimental value to the songwriter, who then matched it to the vibes of one of their songs."

"That makes sense," Raebin nods. As a composer, he likely had similar experiences with tangible objects and his own songs. "Hm..."

"Then, I'd like you to bring the item that looks the most expensive when viewed from a close distance," Raebin requested. Yujin cheered and Sejin cocked his head, unsure of the correlation.

"If one owns something expensive and even brings it here to show it off, then it is highly likely they are a successful entertainer," Raebin reasoned, though Sejin still didn't appear very convinced. Still, the group agreed and sailed with that logic.

"Good luck!" Yujin waved as Chungwoo went to the runners' area. The former athlete definitely stood out among the other contestants. Competition seemed to come to the Ryu naturally.

Moondae turned his focus to the items on the table and immediately narrowed in on a familiar small, round object. It was a baseball signed by a famous hitter, which Chungwoo had brought back to his group in the last round. He had no doubt that Chungwoo would bring the same item again.

Though, Moondae felt a bit lonely, with no one to share these thoughts with other than himself. With Ahyeon in another team, Moondae was left on his own. He wondered if Ahyeon felt similarly.

As fate would have it, Chungwoo returned with the baseball, and the team was given the song Burning Like The Sun. While the original songwriter eagerly introduced his song and the participants responded equally as excited back, Moondae hoped that the disappointment brewing underneath their expressions wasn't apparent.

It definitely became more apparent in the practice room when Raebin listened to the song in full.

"Um... this is..." Raebin seemed to be lost for words. 

"Let's just practice first, since this song is hard to sing," Moondae suggested, slowly pushing for an opportunity to speak with Raebin alone about the arrangement. "We can think of a concept after we get the parts down."

"I agree," Lee Sejin's words were unexpected, but welcomed. It seemed he had picked up on the arranger's concerns.

"Well, what do you think, Raebin?" Chungwoo prompted the quiet member. Raebin thought for a moment, but Moondae was almost certain that it wasn't about Chungwoo's question.

"...Yes, that's fine. More options will arise once we start practicing, we can discuss more then," He decided.

"Then, are we all in agreement?" Chungwoo asked the group, "We'll decide on the concept later. For now, let's organize the parts."

Through majority vote, the group decided to focus on distributing parts first.

"This song is pretty high, especially the chorus. Who can sing it?"

Moondae shyly raised his hand, blushing slightly when he realized no one else had raised their own.

"As expected~!" Yujin scooched closer to Moondae, "Could you sing a bit for us? Please?"

"I'd appreciate it as well, Moondae-hyungnim," Raebin said as he reached over to pull Yujin away from Moondae, muttering something about "hyungnim's personal space!".

"Y-Yeah! Um..." Moondae shyly sang the highlight of the chorus.

The rest of the practice session went as so, distributing parts and battling for the highlight and centre positions. Even without Moondae's intervention, fate would seem to bring the stage closer and closer to what had been performed in another lifetime.

A new group chat was formed, and the team disbanded for the night.

Moondae smiled at the messages flooding in, but anxiety continued to swell in his chest. Lee Sejin A, Kim Raebin, Cha Yujin, and Ryu Chungwoo were all at his doorstep, but how would he let them in? And on Ahyeon's side, Lee Sejin B. The single star remained on the System's screen, lonely.

"Keundal," Ahyeon welcomed Moondae back to the shared room, ushering his friend in. "H-How was practice?"

"It was okay," Moondae didn't really have much to comment on. Ahyeon would know what had happened regarding the song Moondae's group got stuck with—he would have seen the episode air before. "I'm just wondering when to bring up the heroes concept to Raebin. I'm worried if I mention it too early or too late, he won't accept it."

"I-I'm sure R-Raebin would listen and c-consider anything, i-if given the chance," Ahyeon reassured, far closer to the younger than Moondae was. "B-But I understand the worry... I d-don't know if I s-should speak up, s-since I didn't before... and, I'm s-scared of messing things up..."

"...Yeah," Moondae admit along with Ahyeon that he was also afraid of some butterfly effect. "It's a huge gamble. If they don't regain their memories, a lot of things could change, but if they do, then it'll be easier to get the same things done and debut."

"Debut..." Ahyeon chuckled, "I-It's funny. J-Just a month ago I w-would have not believed in the c-chance of debut, b-but now e-everything, more than just m-my career is on the line if I don't debut."

"I'm sorry," Moondae somehow felt that was his fault. He certainly had no intention of putting such the weight of Gunwoo's safety onto Ahyeon's shoulders, but...

Ignorance is a bliss.

"No, d-don't be," Ahyeon quickly shook his head, taking both his hands to hold one of Moondae's, "I-If I found out l-later that Moondae, or Gunwoo-hyung, was just under my nose a-and I f-forgot about him and e-everything he did f-for me, I..."

"Sorry," Moondae apologized again, but for a different reason. He glanced down at their joined hands. "Yeah, I get that. I feel like we keep having the same conversation, but just with different words. I'll try to stop doing that."

"W-We can keep g-going, I don't mind," Ahyeon smiles, swaying their hands back and forth. "Keundal gave m-me a whole life's w-worth of memories back, I can give him a c-conversation or two!"

Moondae reciprocated the smile, tightening his hold on Ahyeon's hands. Sweet tingles replaced the anxious venom dripping from his heart.

He could do it. Moondae could quit grieving for the living and focus on what was more important.

— ✩‧₊˚ —

Moondae silently glanced at Raebin who had yet to recover from the biting blows the original songwriter had given the team after their first evaluation.

It was clear to anyone that Raebin had not taken the criticism well. How could he, when he was the primary person in charge of the arrangement, and said arrangement was the point of critique? Moondae wondered how famous people could get away with the words they said to the new generation just because they were becoming grey and old in comparison.

His low spirits didn't escape the sharp leader, either. Chungwoo occasionally went by to ask how Raebin was doing or if the boy needed a break, but Raebin insisted on fighting through his composer's block. Yujin eventually stepped in and told Chungwoo that Raebin would be fine, and the leader took the friend's word for it.

"How are you doing?"

Moondae moved over to Raebin's corner, glancing at the composer's screen. It was filled with notes that littered the screen as the main program played with tracks upon tracks of samples and original beats.

"I appreciate Moondae-hyungnim's concern," Raebin seemed like he was trying to sound more optimistic than he appeared. "I am just... thinking."

"It's not easy..." Moondae mumbled, watching as Raebin played a certain part over and over, deleting and inputting different sounds like he couldn't decide what was best.

"I admit," Raebin sighed, "That what the songwriter told us was shocking, but also, he has a point. I am lacking inspiration... I must have felt pressure about showing my work to a veteran in the field."

"Um, you know, I've kind of been thinking about the concept a bit, too, if just to relieve you of such a heavy responsibility," Moondae took a deep breath. It was now or never. "But, what do you think about a heroes concept?"

"Heroes...?"

"Courage and passion, that's what the original songwriter said we lacked, right? So then, something about heroes..."

"Oh."

Raebin returned his focus to his laptop screen, though his fingers remained still. Moondae wondered if he should say anything, in case his little push had yet to be successful. Just as he opened his mouth, Raebin stood up quickly, moving mechanically to the keyboard like it was the only object in his vision.

His odd behaviour caught the attention of the other members. Chungwoo and Sejin, who had been practicing their parts, watched Raebin in the mirror while Yujin's usual lazy smile widened.

"Looks like Raebin got his inspiration back," Yujin watched his friend at the keyboard, then plopped himself next to Moondae where Raebin used to be. "What did you tell him, Moondae-hyung?"

"Just a concept idea I thought of..." Moondae was awed to see Raebin in what seemed like the boy's natural element. Any small sign of doubt had disappeared as the composer got to work.

"Whatever you told him, he's going at it," Yujin laughed, "It's almost funny to see Raebin work like this, but it's how you know he's inspired, and he works super fast."

"Yeah?" Moondae recalled Raebin's Maestro talent Gunwoo had first unlocked at this time, too.

"Yeah," Yujin stands up again, and lends a hand out for Moondae. "C'mon, hyung, let's practice too so that when Raebin's ready to show us what he's got, we're ready to perform it!"

"Right," Moondae takes Yujin's hand, rejoining the circle in the middle of the practice room practicing their vocal parts.

It's around two hours later when Moondae hears a "congratulations!" and Raebin rejoins the group, laptop connected to the speaker as a new, fresh sound fills the room. Raebin is looking at Moondae with some sort of emotion, and Moondae reciprocates.

"It's a great song," Moondae says as the track fades out, "Raebin, you're a genius!"

"T-Thank you, Moondae-hyungnim," Raebin takes a minute to calm himself as praises for his work come rolling in. A light blush appears on his cheeks, "And everyone else. I'm grateful for an amazing team."

"Save the sap for after the performance!" Yujin tells Raebin, who responds with a retort of his own. Moondae laughs at the two friends' bickering.

With the song completed, what was left was to choreograph and polish the final performance. With a new start, the group agrees to reconvene the next day.

As Moondae gathers his belongings, another small chime of "congratulations!" rings out. Moondae perks his head to find the source of the voice, only to find that he was the only one left in the practice room.

A thought occurs and his heart rate picks up.

"...System?"

[ Congratulations! ]

[ A star has been lit up. ]

In front of Moondae, a familiar window opens.

[ Remaining stars: ★★☆☆☆☆ ]

His hands shake as Moondae digs out his phone and dials the first number.

"H-Hello, Keundal?"

"Ahyeon."

"What...?"

Moondae takes a staggered breath. His phone feels heavier and like it's about to slip out of his hands, though Moondae feels his grip has never been tighter. On the other end, Ahyeon waits patiently for Moondae to continue.

"Someone else remembered."

"W-Who!?" Ahyeon sounds surprised, but pleasantly so. "Do you know h-how...?"

"It, it has to be," Moondae sits on the ground, adrenaline making his legs grow weak. "Kim Raebin. I told him about the concept, and he arranged the song, then, I don't know, it just happened. I didn't even realize it happened until now. He's not here anymore."

"..." Ahyeon doesn't respond for a moment. Moondae is almost about to call out to him when Ahyeon says, "I-I have a theory!"

"W-What theory?"

"Um, well, y-you'd have to confirm w-with Raebin f-first..." Ahyeon sounded a bit nervous. "A-Actually, did you c-confirm that the m-memory really did c-come back?"

"...No," Moondae hadn't.

Upon seeing the new star, Moondae had jumped to conclusions, believing that A had to mean B. But what if that wasn't the case? What if he was being too rash? Raebin hadn't even spoke to him since the star had lit up, and it had been lit up before Moondae even noticed it.

"I'll talk with him tomorrow," Moondae decided, "Or... ah..."

"What i-is it?"

What if Raebin was afraid after realizing the Moondae in his new memories wasn't the Moondae that was in front of him in real life? What if he thought he was just going crazy, that the memories weren't even real to begin with?

Ahyeon had taken the memories well. Almost too well, if Moondae thought enough about it. Or was that just overthinking?

Moondae had no memories he needed to awaken, so he had no clue what it was like for Ahyeon and Raebin.

He voiced his concerns.

"Hm..." Ahyeon took his time to choose his words right. "I-I think Keundal doesn't have to w-worry about that. Y-Yes... for me, it was a bit s-shocking, but I think C-Cheongryeo-sunbaenim's crime is a l-little more..."

Really, to describe how Ahyeon experienced his "awakening" was by asking himself the question, what was more shocking: your best friend isn't actually who you think they are, or a well-known, well-respected senior in a large industry kidnapped and murdered someone?

Both were shocking in their own right. "I-It cancels out..." or so he says.

Moondae almost wanted to laugh, but was worried it might be tasteless after Ahyeon had given him such a thoughtful response.

"I guess I'll let him come to me..." Moondae decided, "I don't want to overwhelm him and I don't know how he's taken the information overload."

"Y-Yes, I think that's best," Ahyeon agreed. Something rustled on Ahyeon's end and Moondae wondered if it was Ahyeon's fist pumping up and down to support Moondae like he usually did, even if Moondae couldn't see it.

Mind clearing, Moondae let out a breath. "Okay, okay. Yeah. I'll let time figure things out for me."

Raebin did not approach Moondae after that night other than to thank him for presenting the heroes concept and other miscellaneous details for the live stage. Instead, it's Cha Yujin being friendly and cuddly with him. According to Yujin, Moondae "makes a funny face when he's startled", so Yujin has entertained himself with sneaking up behind Moondae and grabbing his shoulders.

He's so buddy-buddy with Moondae that he makes it difficult to interact with Raebin, who tells Yujin to "stop bothering Moondae-hyungnim!", but the tone he uses doesn't sound very chiding, and maybe a little... jea—

"—spacing out before the show?"

Moondae jumps slightly at the voice behind him, and it's not Yujin this time, but Ryu Chungwoo, who puts his hands up apologetically.

"I'm a bit nervous," Moondae replies.

"I am, too," Chungwoo admits with a light laugh, "But a little nerves are good. We've practiced a lot, so I'm sure we'll do well."

"Yes, you're right," Moondae smiled back. He hadn't talked much with Chungwoo this time either having been focused on Raebin, other than for what was essentially work.

"I'm going to make rounds with the other members now," Chungwoo tilted his head towards where a few of the other team members were wither practicing their lines or reviewing performance formations.

"Yes, thank you for checking in on me and all of us."

"Of course."

Moondae took a deep breath, a hand on his chest. As soon as the standby announcement came on, he turned his head to the stairs to the stage, determined.

"Moondae-hyung~ wait up!"

Yujin clamped himself over Moondae's arm, startling the older teammate. He drags him further back a bit before taking Moondae's shoulders in both hands and turning him around quickly.

The rest of the team is standing in a circle with enough space for Yujin and Moondae to join in. Their hands extend to the middle, colourful and coordinated costume sleeves making for an aesthetic view. Yujin pushes Moondae forwards and both join the circle.

"Obligatory team cheer before we head up, yeah?" Yujin is already placing his hand on the pile in the middle. "Come on!"

"O-Okay!" Moondae placed his hand on top of Yujin's.

"Whatever the outcome, we did our best," Chungwoo's words came clearly through the cheering from below the stage. "Let's give it everything we've got!"

Moondae's smile grew at the cliche yet fail-proof cheer. As the members ascended the stairs, bodies disappearing into bright light, Moondae felt his resolve strengthen.

It was hard to tell the base from his own heartbeat. Moondae moved his body as he practiced, the in-ear device sending music straight to his head, keeping him grounded. A warm swell of pride raised in his chest each time Raebin ran out to the front, a subtle reminder of who wrote the precious track bursting from the speakers.

There was no doubt. To Moondae, Raebin was just like the idols on his battered phone, but smooth and clear-sounding, unlike the lagging and blurry figures on the screen. Yet those were the heroes Moondae clung onto with each video gun1234 uploaded—the heroes he saw TeSTAR slowly become.

As the light dimmed and microphones muted for the performers to catch their breaths, Moondae could see clearly this time the lights of the fans below, waving in all directions, hyper from the performance that ended mere seconds ago. Like stars in the sky, like an ocean of light; Moondae suddenly understood the value of such common figurative sayings.

He couldn't help the skip in his step as he descended from the stage.

"Moondae-hyungnim."

A call of his name brought Moondae back to the ground from the high. It was hard to tell his expression under the dim light, but Raebin looked a bit shy.

"Raebin!" Moondae exclaimed, both happy and surprised to finally have been reached out to by the composer. A small part of him also felt somewhat anxious.

"I have to thank you again for helping me with the arrangement," Raebin bowed deeply, low enough that he couldn't see Moondae's frantic hands waving about in protest. "I had hit a block, but you came to my aid at just the right moment."

"No, it was all you, really..." Moondae felt both guilt and pressure. It wasn't actually him that thought of this idea, but...

"I must repay your kindness," Raebin opened his mouth for his next few words, but nothing came out. This happened a few times, as if Raebin was trying out different phrases in his head before saying them aloud.

"Raebin?" Moondae prompted softly.

The younger man took a deep breath. "Moondae-hyungnim. Please forgive me if the words I'm about to say are rude..."

Moondae wondered in what kind of scenario Kim Raebin would be rude.

"Y-You aren't the Park Moondae-hyungnim from my memories, are you?"

Moondae's breath stopped. A ghostly "congratulations!" rung in his head again, only this time, he knew it was not actually playing.

"I refrained from saying anything lest I mess up the practice, o-or if I am mistaken, or otherwise," Raebin's speech got faster as he spoke. Moondae could hear the nerves creeping up into his throat.

Raebin continued, "But I have to confirm now that the performance is over. Hyungnim, the moment I remembered what happened was during one of the moments Park Moondae-hyungnim moved me the most. I will never forget his guidance on top of the resilient teamwork and respect he showed me and the rest of the group. T-This isn't to say you are not the same—!"

Raebin's steam seemed to run out and his ramble suddenly stopped, a deep pink settling on his ears and cheeks. "I, I really just... am so confused."

Those words tugged at Moondae's heart like a tightly fastened rope. Of course he was confused, of course a boy as selfless and conscientious as Raebin would hide away thoughts and feelings he considered "in the way" for the "right time", if that time ever came.

Moondae wondered horribly that if Raebin hadn't gathered the courage to speak with him, would Raebin have been left behind because both parties were too cautious?

Moondae shook that thought away, resuming focus on the boy in front of him.

"No, y-you're right," Moondae's own nerves betrayed him, too, as his voice quivered despite the strong front he wanted to put up for Raebin to lean on. "Your memories, what happened, who I am, e-everything."

"Then...!" In a panic, Raebin's hands flew to Moondae's shoulders, a gesture that the polite maknae would never do sober. "Where... where is..."

Raebin seemed to struggle on how to address the third person who wasn't present. Even with a restless mind, Moondae could tell that Raebin still wanted to call that person with respect. It was another reminder of the importance Gunwoo held in each of their hearts.

"His real name is Ryu Gunwoo," Moondae supplied, hands coming up to Raebin's gently to soothe him. "It's a long story. Ahyeon knows, too. Are you free to meet with both of us on our days off?"

"Yes! Yes, I am," Raebin nodded repeatedly, "By all means, please let me know when would be the best time for you... ah..."

"Keundal," Moondae smiled gently. "I know it isn't your intention and I get that suddenly finding out someone you thought you knew ended up not being them at all. You can call me Keundal. Ahyeon does that, too."

"T-Then! Keundal-hyungnim," Raebin's usual polite form of address that he stuck to the nickname made Moondae chuckle. "Could we exchange contact information...?"

"I was going to ask if you didn't!" Moondae smiled widely, "Here, we can use our group chat..."

With one more number added to his contacts, the weight on Moondae's chest lightened. It seemed his giddiness spread to the other members too, as they mentioned how happy Moondae looked as the cameras rolled, attributing it to the successful performance. The source of his happiness was deeper than they could imagine.

With the Heroes team coming in third, the second team match of Idol Inc. came to a close.

— ✩‧₊˚ —

"Please come again!"

Moondae left the convenience store with a rice ball and small drink which he would call dinner tonight. A look at his wallet after being housed in Idol Inc.'s dormitories once again made Moondae feel sorry for putting Gunwoo into his shoes back then.

With the summer months approaching, the city was bustling with business travelers and tourists. Moondae pulled down his cap a little more.

"Take a picture for me!"

A young girl posed in front of a bus stop ad, and another girl in the same school uniform directed her on where to stand as she pointed a phone towards her friend. Moondae paused briefly in his steps—it was an advertisement for him.

He recalled that around this time, some Idol Inc. trainees had subway ads set up for them, and Gunwoo, Ahyeon, and Keun Sejin had all gone to see theirs. Although it was the same face on the ad, Moondae felt his heart skip a beat, touched. It was himself on that ad, not another person in his body, as weird as that was to think.

Catching himself staring, he quickly moved forwards, back to his small apartment. For some reason, it felt darker and lonelier than when he had last stepped foot inside, before Idol Inc. and before his return to his body.

His neglected suicide note still lay on his bedside table. With a rush of irritation, frustration, and some other nagging emotion Moondae did not want to identify, he crumpled the note and threw it in the trash. Before these feelings could linger more, Moondae turned on the television, a free news channel buzzing to life on the old screen.

"And for the weather..."

It was raining now. Grey clouds hung in the sky and sharp winds rattled his windows, making it hard to believe the sun had been out just moments earlier.

A deep, dark part of him recalled the first time when STier debuted with Cha Yujin in the centre. Unable to overcome inter-group struggles and misunderstandings, they had fallen hard. While Moondae had never discussed this topic with Gunwoo before, he could guess that their disbandment had hit the man in a way Gunwoo himself couldn't describe, or rather, acknowledge.

The same had been for Moondae, when TeSTAR fell apart the moment Gunwoo had gotten into that car. But who could've guessed that a top idol like Cheongryeo would do such a thing? Perhaps their first mistake was separating Cheongryeo's status as an idol from his psychopathic self who had lost his mind through years of obsessing over perfection.

His rice ball was growing cold. Moondae quickened his eating pace.

A ring from his phone pulled Moondae from his thoughts. Right, he had given Raebin his contact information so that he, Moondae, and Ahyeon could arrange a time to meet. Moondae recalled Raebin taking initiative quite a bit despite his unexpectedly shy demeanor.

Only, it was Ahyeon who reached out, and not Raebin. Wondering what the boy could be looking for him for, Moondae picked up his phone.

Seon Ahyeon
Keundal, have you seen the news?

His uncharacteristically short message dug a pit into Moondae's stomach. He wasn't sure he knew what news Ahyeon was referring to. On the TV, the announcer continued onto local traffic.

Seon Ahyeon
This one.
link

A photo of VTIC was attached to the link. Moondae opened the article.

=======

[HOT] [TRENDING] VTIC BIHAN to depart from LeTi and the band: "Effective Immediately" [NEW!]

🗨️ 23,757

=======

┗ ......what?

Chapter Text

"Did you hear? Bihan from VTIC...!"

"I saw that! If you could see the shock on my face when I read the news? I thought I was hallucinating."

"Right? I mean, it's that VTIC, not a spot on their history of seven years."

The tension in the large hall is so thick, Moondae can hardly breathe. Bihan, VTIC, and LeTi were all the trainees around him were talking about.

"And like, a criminal case? That's crazy... If he hadn't slipped up, things could've been so bad for the group. I don't get selfish people like that."

"Right? But you know, I have a friend who works at LeTi, and they say it was a VTIC member who found out and reported it..."

"Reported it? Well, good on them for putting their morals before their fame."

"I don't know about that. Their fame would've dropped along with the group's if it was kept hidden, right? Who wouldn't report it?"

"You have a point..."

"Still, I can't believe such a thing happened. My company's staff keep telling me to try and be like VTIC, who have a flawless record."

"Yeah. It's like the first mistake VTIC ever made, if you can even call that a mistake."

Moondae balls his fists, anxious and doubtful. A past conversation re-emerges in his head, when the article had first released.

Ahyeon had invited Moondae and Raebin over to his home to discuss Gunwoo and formally reunite with his fellow TeSTAR member. Having been caught up with the events thus far and making sense of what had happened, Raebin's quiet rage towards the senior idol was felt deeply by Moondae. That, along with a mix of confusion.

"I don't think he would let this happen," Raebin's eyes scan the article again. "This describes Bihan-sunbaenim's criminal case in such detail, his image would have to drag VTIC down as well."

"A-And we all know how i-important VTIC is t-to him now...!" Ahyeon exclaims, "But this article c-came out after we d-debuted, and then he did... t-that... I don't t-think he would m-make this mistake again!"

"Can we really brush this off as a mistake?" Because Cheongryeo wouldn't do that. Moondae knew. The only reason such a scandal happened the last time was because Gunwoo entering Idol Inc. was not on Cheongryeo's radar. With a new group that came out of nowhere suddenly shooting up the ranks, Cheongyreo's focus must have shifted, unintentionally neglecting the troublemaker.

It was also for that reason Cheongryeo decided to take out the anomaly and reset. Perhaps something had happened once again that Cheongryeo could not account for. The first possibility that came to Moondae's mind was himself appearing on Idol Inc., but he felt far too detached from VTIC and the idol scene for his presence alone to be associated with Bihan's dismissal. It could also have something to do with Cheongryeo's sudden obsession with Gunwoo, but as far as Moondae knew, all Cheongryeo was doing was preventing Gunwoo from contacting him.

What was he planning? Moondae couldn't make sense of the crazy man's actions.

"Camera rolling, three, two..." At the sound of the countdown, the trainees around Moondae quickly closed their mouths.

Tension returned to the air, but a different type. In front of the crowd of trainees was the familiar pyramid of numbered seats, six shiny and silver chairs up at the top loudly announcing their presence among the plastic counterparts below. Suddenly, Moondae felt his collar felt a bit too tight, and reached up to adjust it.

"Nervous?" Keun Sejin whispers next to him, "I am, you know, since they announced the whole minus votes thing..."

The selling stocks thing, he meant. Moondae still wondered whose amazing idea it was to quantify young trainees' popularity and disapproval. With the attention the show had been unexpectedly gathering, such numbers were large, and certainly not beneficial to people's mental health.

"Yeah..."

"I don't think you need to worry, if that makes you feel any better," Keun Sejin winked, and once again Moondae was reminded of how much of a good person Sejin was, comforting someone else when he himself was feeling similarly. "You're a great singer, honestly the best in the whole show, everyone admits that. You're irreplaceable..."

The last sentence drags, leaving Moondae to wonder what Sejin was meaning to say next.

Slowly, contestants' placements are called and short speeches are invited as the ranks get higher and higher. A few contestants cry—some for real, and some to secure screen time. Moondae anxiously waits for his name to be called as the trainee in tenth is invited to the front.

He also takes a mental note that all TeSTAR members have placed above tenth. A good sign.

"In sixth place, Kim Raebin!"

Raebin makes brief eye contact with Moondae as he walks forward, dipping his head and making a meaningful walk to the chair in sixth. The way he acts has Moondae noticing that Raebin is being cautious of the camera, understanding that him as the first trainee to be announced and sitting at the top is bound to have his portion edited and aired. A newfound experience radiates off him.

"In fourth, Seon Ahyeon!"

The same is with Ahyeon as he makes his way to the top. At the same time, a small anxiety buds in Moondae's chest. Why hasn't he been called yet?

"In third, Cha Yujin!"

Moondae claps for the young and talented mood-maker who had been steadily maintaining his position amongst the debut ranks. His anxiety grows stronger still.

"Before we mention first and second place, here are the trainees who have just managed to make the cut-off..."

Moondae half-expects to be called up. He isn't. Names he doesn't recall ever hearing are announced instead, and the two trainees cry and latch onto each other tightly, a hug that's reserved for close friends and partners. There's a fifty percent chance those two have only spoken once with each other.

"For first and second place, here are our contestants!"

Moondae looks up. His face is reflected on the large screen with Ryu Chungwoo's. He reaches up to his cheek and his double on the screen does the same. Moondae quickly scrambles to the front, no grace in his movements, as he realizes his rank has been bumped up significantly.

Chungwoo greets him as usual as they stand on small podiums next to each other. Moondae's heart is racing. He doesn't understand how Chungwoo looks like he's doing just fine. Maybe it was a front.

A microphone is passed to the two trainees and they're asked to share a few words. Chungwoo remains humble yet passionate, thanking his supporters and promising even better performances going forward. As he passes the microphone to Moondae, the younger man all but forgets any mental rehearsal he tried to conjure in his mind.

"I, I really don't know how I got here," Is the first thing out of his mouth and Moondae fights back the urge to hit himself for the slip up. "Oh, but I don't mean to doubt my fans, um... just, thank you so so much, I'll continue to do my best, please keep watching after me no matter the outcome...!"

A few chuckles emerge from the trainees who have accepted their fate that lied outside of the show. Moondae's face burns with embarrassment. He really was not expecting to have to give a speech, much less right after the number one speech guy, leader Ryu Chungwoo.

He shuts his eyes tightly as the buildup to the announcement of first place drags on.

His eyes shoot open when his name is called.

Moondae's face reflects all around the large hall. He's first place. If his jaw was any closer to the floor, he'd file for medical leave to get it checked out. With shaky legs, he climbs all the way up with Chungwoo to the top, a large, sparkling chair with a loud number one on its backrest looking a bit too flashy for someone like him.

He sees the drone camera focusing on him as he shouts the Idol Inc. slogan for the rest of the trainees to follow, then bows along with them, thanking the stockholders for their loyalty. He still doesn't know what's happening.

Cameras are cut and friends come rushing to Moondae's side.

"Moondae, congratulations!" Ahyeon is beaming with pride. He's so bright that Moondae almost needs to look away. "First p-place is amazing!"

"I really, really don't get it though..." Moondae covers his face with his palms like he's been caught doing something he shouldn't have been. "My team came in third, so my minus votes should still apply, right? Why haven't I fallen instead?"

"Just because stockholders can sell their stocks doesn't mean they have to," Chungwoo gently reminded beside him, "It seems like you've cultivated a loyal fan base, Moondae. That's something to be proud of."

"But I really don't get how I did that..."

"Have you listened to yourself? Your singing is out of this world!" Yujin comes racing to the top to join them. "Like, if you could dance better, you'd probably have debuted a long time ago!"

"Yujin, you idiot!" Raebin scolds his friend for the unintentional backhanded comment. "Just congratulate Moondae-hyungnim and don't say anything unnecessary!"

"Haha," Moondae can only halfheartedly laugh at the banter. He's suddenly exhausted. "I didn't realize so many eyes were on me..."

The counter that Gunwoo's system had that told him how many people remembered him was definitely useful. It was a shame that Moondae didn't have that, or else he might have been able to make sense of his sudden rise in relevancy.

"You're too humble," Keun Sejin climbs up, too. "Have you not been on social media these days? You're everywhere!"

"I haven't..." Moondae sadly admits. He had his mind occupied with so many other things that monitoring his presence online had been the least of his worries.

"For some people that might be better," Chungwoo says, "Lest you go doom-scrolling and try to find hate. Though, it's not ideal to be completely oblivious either. But don't worry, as you can guess from your rank, the vast majority of public opinion is positive about you, Moondae."

"I'm thankful..."

"We get some free time after we get organized into our next group," Sejin recalls, "How about you do some research then?"

"I probably should," Moondae sighs, "I have a lot on my mind."

"Moondae-hyungnim has been working nonstop," Raebin says, and Ahyeon nods repeatedly. "You should get some rest while you can."

"Thanks, Raebin. You've worked hard, too."

"N-Not at all...!"

The six trainees at the top paint a bright, untouchable portrait amongst the shining leather seats reserved for those who will debut. From the corner of his eye, Moondae spots Lee Sejin A staring up towards them. His expression is unreadable, but undoubtedly grim.

The child actor makes no move to join, and quietly files out of the film site alone.

— ✩‧₊˚ —

Moondae's happy to have both Ahyeon and Raebin on his team this time. With the three of them who have memories of the past life together, the concept for the Rabbit team is quickly and efficiently established with little trouble.

It gives Moondae, Ahyeon, and Raebin time to chat again before filming the next day.

"You said it was like an epiphany?"

"Yes," Raebin nods. Moondae asked Raebin again about when he had regained his memories, and what the experience was like for him. "As I have mentioned, Moondae-hyungnim, or rather, Gunwoo-hyungnim left a heavy impression on me following the Heroes group competition. I found myself relying on him more and more since."

"Then maybe the whole remembering thing has to take place during an important event? When Gunwoo-hyung had a meaningful interaction with each of the TeSTAR members?" Moondae wonders aloud. It was a running theory that seemed to have some steam.

"I-I think so," Ahyeon agrees, "It was f-fast for me, but to be honest, Gunwoo-hyung m-made me feel touched w-when he would just i-interact with me normally... s-so it makes sense!"

"And maybe explain why Lee Sejin B hasn't remembered anything yet? Even though we've interacted so much?" Moondae feels that, apart from Ahyeon, he had spent the most time with Keun Sejin, yet the man had still not recovered any memories.

"What would be the big event—"

As if lightning struck that very room, silence immediately fell amongst the three. It was obvious what the "big event" with Park Moondae for Keun Sejin would be.

"...W-We have n-no choice, do we?" Ahyeon's quiet voice gently counters the silence.

"Come restored memories, I feel I should apologize to Sejin-hyungnim..." Raebin mutters, a dark cloud seemingly forming above him.

The three of them had come to the same conclusion: Lee Sejin B's high school violence scandal. Although Moondae had to live it vicariously through Gunwoo, it was event that had many people stressed. It had been thanks to Gunwoo that it had been resolved so quickly.

Thus, it also made sense that was when Sejin began to truly take a shine to Park Moondae. So, even they though they knew it was coming, they couldn't take any preventative measures if they wanted Sejin to regain his memories. He'd have to live through that stress again.

So of course, no one felt good about that.

"In the very least, we're all on the same team with him, so let's just make sure to comfort him when it happens," Moondae decides, "Besides, if we tried to stop it, the original poster might have something else up their sleeve, then we'd really not know how to handle it..."

It was a blessing that Gunwoo had so much photography and editing experience under his belt and just happened to be in the same team. However, they didn't have Gunwoo this time, so they were at the mercy of hoping the future would remain at least somewhat the same in case they had to act.

"Keundal-hyungnim is right," Raebin agreed, nodding repeatedly. "We can diligently prepare for our stage and also help Sejin-hyungnim when the time comes."

"O-Okay!" Ahyeon's head begins to nod at the same pace as Raebin's. Moondae has to press the back of his hand to his mouth to hold in his chuckle. Cute.

The day breaks and the trio move to the film set on the scheduled time to meet with the rest of the Rabbit team. Raebin has already completed the demo for the team's remix of the song for their stage, having arranged the song before. This time, he added a few more tweaks here and there to better align with his more recent experience and tastes as the composer for TeSTAR.

It was well-received. Moondae had no doubt it would be.

"This really is a dream team!" Lee Sejin B laughed loudly, spreading a contagious high throughout the practice room. "I have a lot of confidence in this next stage. Geniuses are really on another level~"

"We all contributed! This is the result of all our hard work!" Raebin insisted, a light blush spreading on his face. Moondae smiled at the sight of Raebin and Sejin's growing closeness.

"But for real, how do you even think of stuff like this, Moondae?" Sejin crossed his arms, "Are you like, secretly a pro at concepts? What did you do before coming to the show? The way you just manage to incorporate all of our suggestions into one grand idea is amazing."

At the insistence of Ahyeon and Raebin, Moondae resumed his role as the one to suggest the ideas that would ultimately be used in the final product. Their reasoning was that Gunwoo had done that before, and Moondae in Gunwoo's position was the best person to continue doing so. Moondae thought it would be better to split the role between the three of them so it didn't seem like he was being too pushy, but the two had quickly assured Moondae that such wasn't the case.

"It's all part of your image now!" They had said. "Master of song and concepts. You're in first place right now, and that's what got you up there!"

They had been idols and in the public eye for much longer than Moondae has, so he trusted their judgement and went along with their idea.

"I just wanted to make sure we were all heard," Moondae replies to Sejin sheepishly, "Individually, they're all good ideas, so if we combine them the right way, then it would be even better, right?"

"You need to let me in on your secrets one day, Moondae," Sejin jokes, but Moondae was more than ready to let him in on the one big secret he was hiding.

"I don't want to!"

The mood collapsed as if a large stone had been thrown into a still lake. Instinctively whipping his head in the direction of the shouting, Moondae swallows down the lump in his throat as Lee Sejin A runs out from the room. Chungwoo is quick to follow, leaving the rest of their team frozen from shock.

Moondae has half a mind to make his way to Yujin's side and ask the boy if he was alright, but under the bright lights of the rolling cameras, he held himself back. A complicated feeling bubbled up in him, knowing the story behind Lee Sejin A's sour moods and defensive reactions, but also realizing the frustration other trainees felt against the child actor.

With a heavy heart, the Rabbit team concludes their drafts for their performance and submit it to the production team. Night falls and Moondae is still thinking of the fight.

"I hope Yujin is doing alright..." Moondae sighs, falling on his back onto his bed. "That must be stressful, especially since his other teams have been doing well."

"He got through this once before," Raebin says, though the worry is clear in his voice, too. "I'm sure he will come out fine again."

"Right."

"I'm going to wash up, hyungnim," Raebin gets up from his seat on his bed and heads towards the shower room, "Please rest soon."

"I will. You too, Raebin!" Moondae waves as Raebin nods and closes the door. The soft snoring of his other team members fill the new silence. Moondae takes his phone out of his pocket and searches the trending page.

TRENDING

BIHAN
1 · K-Pop, Music
Trending with VTIC

LeTi
2 · Entertainment

Idol Inc. EP7
3 · Entertainment

Bihan's tab was filled with fans and non-fans commenting on their shock towards the news and the type of person the VTIC member ended up being, with a large handful of posts using photos and videos to analyze the ex-member's personality slipping up or how he apparently was not talented enough to keep up with VTIC at all apart from singing. Even if he was incriminated, Moondae thought about how the world was not kind to those who became undesirable, as aspects of his person unrelated to the criminal case were also beat up and insulted.

Still, Moondae could agree with those simply expressing their surprise. Who had seen this coming? VTIC had also dropped their comeback schedule not too long beforehand, so this could not have been so carefully planned. Didn't this mean they would have to re-record their upcoming songs?

Moondae's mind shifted over to Gunwoo, wondering if he would have known anything about this or if he was kept in the dark just as everyone else had been. A knock on the door kept him from thinking too hard, though. Maybe he should thank the person on the other side for reeling him back to reality before Moondae could ruminate again.

"Hello—" Moondae's voice got caught in his throat at the sight before him.

Cha Yujin! Is crying!

Moondae then recalled that this had indeed happened before. Gunwoo had invited Yujin in and gave him chocolates.

"Hnng..." Yujin remained in front of the door as Moondae's brain rushed to catch up.

"C-Come inside! It's cold!" It was summer. Still, Moondae quickly ushered Yujin inside the room and sat him down at the table.

Yujin sniffled a few times, his hands balling on his lap.

"Um, ahh..." Moondae rummaged through his bag quickly, taking out a few chocolate bars. "D-Do you want some?"

Yujin nodded shallowly. Moondae placed them in front of the younger boy quietly.

For a minute, the sound of wrappers getting torn and tossed over and over was all that was exchanged between the two.

Moondae recalled the question Gunwoo had asked Yujin before. "...Are you having a hard time?"

"..." Yujin stiffened, and Moondae almost regretted asking before Yujin finally responded, "Yeah..."

More tears fell from his face, dragging on his cheeks and leaving a dry trail. Moondae's own heart tightened at the scene. Suddenly, he felt blessed that none of his teams had been nearly as fierce or at odds as Yujin's current one.

Moondae knew that the rest of the interaction, if it could even be called one, consisted of Gunwoo simply staying by Yujin's side and offering him more chocolate until Yujin had calmed down. This interaction had won Yujin's fans' favour and earned Gunwoo much praise.

Moondae knew that, and yet...

"It must be stressful," His mouth moved before he could stop it. "Not all teams can get along and sometimes people feel the need to raise their voice or do certain things to feel heard."

Yujin slowed his chewing and looked up towards Moondae.

"In a way, I think that takes a lot of courage," Moondae looked down at his own hands, playing with his fingers. "Even if the outcome of doing such things is almost never good, there's a lot to be admired in those who refuse to be overlooked... and at the same time, there's a lot to be admired in those who can control their emotions. I don't think either is necessarily better than the other."

Yujin's silence prompted Moondae to continue.

"But both can lead to conflict and make people feel uncomfortable. It can make you feel like you've been set back," Moondae thought about his high school days. Marked with bullying and cut short under pressure, sometimes he wished he could have been braver. "Yujin, I hope you wouldn't feel that way, even if it's hard..."

Moondae's gaze returned to meet Yujin's, and he felt heat rise into his ears. What was he even saying? Of course Yujin was going to feel that way, anyone in his shoes would! Moondae suddenly wanted the ground to open and swallow him whole.

"Ah, never mind, I'm rambling..." Moondae looked through his bag once more, but there were no more chocolates. He sheepishly put his bag down. "Um, are you feeling better...?"

"Mhm," Yujin's cheeks puffed out like a squirrel's as he finished the rest of his chocolate. He brought his arm up and wiped his face roughly, standing from his seat with a new fire in his eyes. A fire that made Moondae feel like Yujin was seeing through him somehow.

[ Congratulations! ]

Moondae's head snapped towards the System screen that winked into existence beside him.

[ A star has been lit up. ]

[ Remaining stars: ★★★☆☆☆ ]

Moondae turned his head back to Yujin once more. Without thinking, he took a step back, suddenly feeling intimidated.

"Yujin...?" Moonde tries to prompt him gently.

Yujin's head turns to the camera in the corner of the room, then back to Moondae. He bows slightly and says, "Thank you, Moondae-hyung."

"Oh, um, of course," Moondae replies quickly, "D-Did you want to see Raebin?"

"No, it's fine," Yujin makes his way to the door again. "We can talk later. I want to talk to you again too. Later."

"Y-Yes, let's," Moondae agreed. "Goodnight?"

"Mhm," Yujin nods. "Goodnight."

Yujin leaves the room, but what's also left is an odd pit of anxiety in Moondae's stomach.

Well. That had been unexpected. Moondae looks back at the star counter, still in shock.

He's now fifty percent there. Half of TeSTAR has regained their memories. Moondae debates with himself whether to run after Yujin or not, but remembering the active cameras in the hall, decides against it. Now that he thinks about it, Yujin probably thought the same. Maybe. Moondae recalled Gunwoo finding Yujin's head not to think in that direction, but Moondae liked to believe he had more people skills than Gunwoo, even if neither of them had much.

"Yujin was here? I heard his voice," Raebin stepped out of the shower room, a towel hanging over his neck. "And you can wash up now, hyungnim. Thank you for letting me wash up ahead of you."

"Oh no, it's fine," Moondae tore his eyes from the System screen and walked towards Raebin, closer to the shower room where the cameras didn't reach. "And yeah, Yujin was just here. He was having a hard time with his team... and I think he just, well, regained his memories."

"What!?" Raebin's hand drying his hair with the towel froze. "So suddenly?"

"It caught me off guard, too," Moondae admitted, "And I didn't actually confirm with him, it's just... a feeling, you could call it. But the cameras are still on and stuff, so we didn't say anything."

"I see," Raebin nods, "A similar situation like mine. I will talk to him."

"Thank you, Raebin," Moondae smiled. The friendship between TeSTAR shone yet again, he thought.

"Of course. And that just leaves three more of our members left..." Raebin's tone shifted as he spoke, a faraway look clouding his eyes. "Then we will meet with the last one."

"We will," Moondae was sure of that. It was not only his mission given by the System, but also his dying wish to make Gunwoo happy. That couldn't be achieved if Gunwoo remained with his killer.

After exchanging a few more words, Raebin went off to bed and Moondae washed up for the night before doing the same. He denied staying up late if anyone asked about his dark circles the next day, even if the light from under his blanket made the lie obvious.

Raebin confirmed Yujin's memory restoration and shared the story on Moondae's behalf. Moondae was happy to see that Yujin had taken the memories quite well just as the other members had, should Raebin's testimony, "The words went in one ear and out the other with that idiot, but he's happy to be his true self again," mean that.

Finally, the costumes, set, and song were finally in place as the days counted down to Idol Inc.'s first show on MusicBomb. Between this night and the stage stood one last obstacle.

At Keun Sejin's staggered breath, Moondae leapt to action.

"Sejin, that's not the real photo, right?" He was by his friend's side in an instant.

"No..." Sejin laughed, a sound void of real humour coming from his lips, "It's true that I smoked. I was so stressed after an incident at my old company, but this... this isn't real."

"Let's find the real photo!"

The real photo appears in an old album shared by all of Sejin's friends helping him campaign for the student council president position.

"And, if we upload it like this..."

Moondae, Ahyeon, Raebin, and the rest of the team dedicate the night to spreading the real photo as naturally as possible.

And in the dead of night, as the controversy is cleared and the original post is taken down, a sound rings in Moondae's head.

[ Congratulations! ]

[ A star has been lit up. ]

[ Remaining stars: ★★★★☆☆ ]

The night ends well.

Everything is perfect. So perfect, that unfounded doubt spreads in Moondae's chest.

— ✩‧₊˚ —

Four of the six TeSTAR members Moondae is tasked with restoring the memories of are gathered in Ahyeon's flat.

"That bastard!" Keun Sejin's fists are balled so tightly that Moondae worries for his palms getting breached by nails. "I knew there was something wrong with him! How can he just... just do that to someone? Then act like nothing happened? He's crazy!"

"He's like those psychos in the movies, but this is real life!" Yujin exclaimed, agreeing with Sejin and scowling heavily, "Our Gunwoo-hyung~!"

With their memories restored, Moondae catches Sejin and Yujin up to speed, with his mission to gather all the TeSTAR members and how their Park Moondae had been swept up by his killer who turned out to be a chronic time traveler. While Yujin is ready to accept what has already happened, Sejin is less easily pulled down from his angered high.

"I don't understand how you can be so calm about all of this," Sejin says, eyes burning with hot hatred that sears Moondae's own heart, though he knows it's not meant for him. "Moon—Ryu Gunwoo is with that man as we speak, and we're stuck in this stupid show instead of trying to get him away? There has to be other routes to take, like becoming a music show staff member or costume assistant, some profession that can get close to idols. Why did you choose this way?"

The words sting and cut through Moondae's already weary spirit. He knows Sejin has a point and, honestly, he had never thought of approaching this problem like that. Or, maybe he would have, if there wasn't a blue screen threatening his life against him that Sejin and the others couldn't see.

For once without trying, Moondae found himself in Gunwoo's shoes, unable to explain his motives.

"I can't do this alone," He opts to say, a weak sound replacing the S- vocals Gunwoo had left for him.

And it's true. Even before Ahyeon had regained his memories, Moondae had relied on Gunwoo's experiences in his body to get him onto and through the audition show. He was never truly making decisions or acting on himself.

"And he needs you all," Moondae continues and, in a split second, makes a choice that he can't take back. "I'm going to tell you all something I haven't yet told anyone. Before the last timeline, before Gunwoo-hyung entered my body, there was a timeline even before that."

"What?" The anger on Sejin's face dissipates and is quickly replaced by confusion and surprise.

"Let's call it timeline one. In timeline one, I was me, and Gunwoo-hyung was Gunwoo-hyung. Idol Inc. existed and there was a new group that was formed. They were called STier," Moondae turns to look at Yujin, "You were their centre."

"O-Oh..." Yujin, for once, seems like he has nothing to say.

"But the group didn't last long and for several reasons faded away," Moondae looked down, not wanting to see the others' expressions regarding such news. "That group, even if Gunwoo-hyung would never admit it, affected him a lot, so their disbandment was a big blow."

Moondae paused, taking a deep breath to steady his quivering voice before revealing, "After a while, he ended his own life."

A soft gasp broke the dam holding back Moondae's messed up thoughts, as if affirming that Moondae was indeed telling this story to receptive people, that this was all real.

"Someone who gave me another chance at life took his own! I was devastated!" His voice became muffled as he took his arms to his face, smothering himself to clumsily wipe away tears that sprang from nowhere. "Whenever I'd visit him in the hospital I felt so torn between yelling at him or being empathetic because no matter which way I acted it'd make no difference! He was unconscious! I beat myself up in my head over and over for letting him do that to himself, for letting him become like how I was without even noticing."

Fast thumps come up behind him and a glass clink hit his ears. Ahyeon had filled a cup of water and placed it in front of Moondae on the table wordlessly. He took a sip.

"So I made a wish," He roughly wipes his eyes with his forearm one more time. "I wished Gunwoo-hyung could be happy. At that point, I think I slipped, I don't really remember... and then I realized I was booted out of my body and Gunwoo-hyung, with no memory of meeting me and his suicide, was in my body. This was timeline two, when he met all of you and debuted in TeSTAR. By some miracle, my wish was to be granted, so long as we did everything right.

"But then that crazy obsessive stalker came into the picture," It takes almost all of Moondae's control to not slam the glass back down on the table. He places it as gently as he can. "And ended timeline two. Whatever entity took pity on us sent us into the present, timeline three, and I'm approaching my wish a different way now."

"M-Moondae..." Ahyeon uses Moondae's real name.

[ Words of Persuasion (A) activated! ]

For the first time, the skills Moondae inherited from Gunwoo activated.

It's time to start acting for myself.

"So do you get it? All of you," Moondae finally returns his gaze back up to eye level with the four TeSTAR members. "I believe Gunwoo's happiness lies with TeSTAR, STier, just something that involves you all. There would be no way for you to recall memories of timeline two without that being the case, right? Please... please work with me to take back Gunwoo-hyung."

A silence stretches across the room. It's not comfortable, but not uncomfortable, either, as if both sides were trying to digest Moondae's outburst.

A ding from Moondae's phone cuts through the tension and Moondae scrambles to silence it before another awkward noise can play, but the notification that displays on his screen makes his limbs go rigid.

Speak of the devil.

"Haha..." He doesn't know what to do but laugh.

Quick at recognizing Moondae's expression, Ahyeon searches something on his own phone and a hand flies to cover his hanging jaw.

"What? What is it?" Sejin slides over to look at Moondae's phone while Raebin and Yujin peer over Ahyeon's shoulder.

Moondae thinks he heard someone say something, but it's tuned out by yet another notification.

[ Congratulations! ]

[ A star has been lit up. ]

[ Remaining stars: ★★★★★☆ ]

Moondae doesn't know what's happening anymore. 

The script is gone.

This is why Bihan was kicked out.

It's dizzying.

Chapter Text

Cheongryeo walks out of an emergency meeting when he's dragged by the wrist out of the hallway to the fire stairs.

"What the hell is this?" An angry Ryu Gunwoo shoves his phone into Cheongryeo's face, literally. Cheongryeo has to move Gunwoo's arm so that he can actually see the screen.

"Bihan was involved in a criminal case," Cheongryeo explained, "So we moved to kick him out before it was exposed. It appears we acted just in time."

"I know that," Gunwoo scoffed, placing his phone back into his pocket. "Honestly, I don't care about that. He did what he did. I'm only upset that he seemed to not consider his reputation with VTIC at all. Why didn't you tell me? Your comeback is this month. I have to reorganize everything."

After taking on the role of VTIC's manager, Gunwoo had busied himself with adjusting to the popular group's busy schedule and accommodating his time to match with all of the members' solo schedules. Cheongryeo was happy to see Gunwoo be so diligent despite his initial reluctance on taking up the new role. Even if the man didn't say it outright, Cheongryeo knew that he was indeed happier going out than being cooped up in an office.

It had been a good while since they've began working together. Of course, Cheongryeo knew the man better now. While Gunwoo himself didn't seem to realize it, Cheongryeo believed Gunwoo wasn't the type to dislike going out, but rather needed a good reason to go out, and going out boosted his mood.

"I'm sure you can handle it," Cheongryeo smiled. He truly thought so.

"Alright," Came Gunwoo's sarcastic response. "On that note, your schedule seems clear near the end of the month, which is odd. Is this a mistake or is that time allotted for free time or practice?"

"It's not a mistake," Cheongryeo reassures, "I just have some things to do for some show. The CEO is handling that part along with me, so it's likely that it just didn't appear on the schedule you were given."

"That's what you said, then. I won't take responsibility if you're wrong," Gunwoo sighed heavily. "Well, all of the songs on the album are going to have to be re-distributed and re-recorded. I'm still in contact with the producer about that and it seems likely that he's going to distribute Bihan's part evenly between the four of you. We need to record the new lines as soon as possible, so the moment I get confirmation it's straight to the studio with you all. Same with the concept photos."

"Understood," Cheongryeo inwardly gleamed at the man's competence. Where was he in all the other rounds? What a waste of time.

"Then, I'll release you now," Gunwoo pinched the bridge of his nose. He muttered to himself as he left, "We're all busy. Why did I accept this damn job? That blackmailing brat..."

Cheongryeo couldn't help the chuckle that escaped him. While Gunwoo's words were piercing, they were not with hostility and more so general comments as if saying the sky was blue. Cheongryeo believed they had moved past the petty remarks and nasty glares phase of their relationship to be more tolerable of each other, at least, on his own side. Cheongryeo had never had a problem with Gunwoo.

Before he left the staircase, Cheongryeo surfed the web to assess both the damage and buzz from LeTi and VTIC's unexpected notice.

TRENDING

BIHAN
1 · K-Pop, Music
Trending with VTIC

LeTi
2 · Entertainment

Idol Inc. EP7
3 · Entertainment

That Idol Inc. had become so popular the audition show still held its place in the top 3 soured Cheongryeo's mood, but it wasn't like he was overly concerned with the show or the people in it.

He thought back to the previous timeline. The seventh episode had just aired, so a few events have happened already. The most memorable one was one of the Lee Sejin's school violence controversy that had been dealt with in a single night, no doubt with the real Park Moondae to thank.

He could admire the boy's will to fight him, but it would be a losing battle.

If Park Moondae waited just a little bit, Cheongryeo was sure to serve him a most unexpected surprise on a silver platter.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

"Okay, Judan, you're next," The producer let out a sigh that Cheongryeo could tell he meant to hold in if his regretful expression said anything. A small "yes" came from Judan who entered the recording booth, shoulders slightly dropping from the producer's sigh.

Cheongryeo crossed his arms and legs, leaning back against the sofa in the studio. He couldn't blame the producer for feeling discouraged—not only did he have to come back to record new lines, what he thought was a chance to rise in fame with his song being chosen as VTIC's new title track quickly turned into a challenge to recapture the feeling of when an unexpected weakness came to light.

VTIC was rather weak in vocals. The loss of their main vocalist was more damaging than the producer thought. Neither Cheongryeo nor Chaeyul could perform at the same vocal level as Bihan, and the pressure was left sagging Judan's spirit.

Moreover, if Judan was the only one who could cover Bihan's parts, the distribution would be heavily lopsided towards Judan, leading to unbalanced choreography and speculations of favouritism. Not a good look after a major controversy.

"Maybe I should just rewrite a new melody..." The producer mumbled, though it was loud enough to be heard like normal speech.

"I can try it again," Judan insisted, but the producer shook his head.

"I don't doubt you can probably do it if you try enough times, but there's other issues I'm thinking of if we just dump all of that guy's parts onto you," The producer clicked his tongue, "Young people ruining their futures, it's a shame."

With the mention of VTIC's new he-who-shall-not-be-named, the mood in the recording room fell. Cheongryeo checked his phone for the time: twenty-nine past one.

Any second now.

The door to the studio opens and there stands Ryu Gunwoo, stopping at the sight of the full house. His eyes scan the room before falling onto Cheongryeo, silently demanding for an explanation.

"A few plans were changed and we ended up all coming here at the same time," He unhelpfully supplies.

It's Gunwoo's turn to let out a sigh. "Why don't they tell me this," He says. A rhetorical question he isn't actually seeking an answer for.

"Gunwoo-hyung, it's been a while," Sinoh is the fist to greet him, followed by Chaeyul and Cheongryeo himself. From the recording booth, Judan offers a slight bow.

"This someone you know?" The producer asks.

"He's our new manager," Chaeyul responds. "The one you were in contact with before."

"Oh! It's nice to finally meet you in person. Manager, eh? Didn't expect that one with that handsome face," The producer comments, and Gunwoo responds with a polite "Not really, but thank you."

"Are you re-recording the songs?" He asks, closing the door behind him and joining the group. "Your leader asked me to be here for what was supposed to be his own session. I don't know why."

"Really? Did you, hyung?" Chaeyul asks, turning to Cheongryeo who had stood up from the couch.

"I did," A small smile spreads on his face. He can tell Gunwoo doesn't like the look of it, so he smiles more. "I'm sorry to keep this from you all, but I saw this problem coming, that we would not be able to make up for Bihan's parts."

"Then why are we here?" Judan asks, looking a bit wronged. He had only tried a few times to sing Bihan's parts and likely felt he wasn't given enough chances to show off what he could do.

"I had a thought," Cheongryeo moves to Gunwoo's side. "I'm aware vocals are not VTIC's strongest attribute, especially not after the loss of our main vocalist. I think we should consider postponing our comeback."

"What? Am I hearing things right?" Sinoh sounds like he wants to laugh as a shock response. "Leader-nim wants to postpone a comeback? Leader-nim who puts VTIC before anything?"

"Let me finish," Cheongryeo looks towards the producer. "I apologize, PD-nim, but I think we won't be using your song for VTIC's comeback this time."

"What, and you can just decide this?" The producer stands from his seat, "You're just an idol. Don't get ahead of yourself."

"You as well," Cheongryeo puts a hand up as a signal to stop talking. "And I didn't say we'd scrap your song. I think I'd like to give it to someone else."

All eyes in the studio zero in on Cheongryeo's, an especially piercing one radiating from his side. He can almost hear the don'tsayitdon'tsayitdon'tsayit mantra from Gunwoo's murderous aura.

"Gunwoo-hyung, how about you sing it?"

"Huh?"

Cheongryeo disregards the confused noises coming from the other people in the room. Gunwoo responds flatly.

"I didn't take you to be the type to joke around."

"I'm not joking."

"This is a professional studio, not a karaoke room."

"Just think of it as a karaoke room if that makes you more comfortable."

A hand lands on Cheongryeo's shoulder. "Hyung, are you sure? Where did this come from? It's a bit random... not very like you," Chaeyul says cautiously.

"When have I been wrong?" Cheongryeo responds back simply. He looks towards the producer, "I would say a song given to VTIC versus a song given to VTIC's direct hoobae is almost the same, right?"

"Ah, h-hoobae!?" The producer isn't the only one shocked at such surprising words said so casually. "He isn't your manager?"

"Hoobae? This is the first I've heard of that!" Sinoh agrees.

"Because I said it for the first time right now."

Gunwoo groaned. "I had my suspicions when you wanted to meet me at a karaoke place that one night."

"And you still stayed."

"Like I had a choice?"

"You're remembering that now?" Cheongryeo laughs, but it's short-lived. He goes behind Gunwoo and puts his hands on both of Gunwoo's shoulders, pushing him gently. He whispers, "Do you think you have a choice right now, too?"

He doesn't have to look to know Gunwoo just rolled his eyes. Threats like those had no effect on the man anymore. He walks into the booth himself, Cheongryeo closing the door behind him.

"W-Well, if VTIC's Cheongryeo insists, then I suppose there's no helping it," The producer puts on his headphones. "We'll listen to the original a few times and learn as we go. We'll just do the chorus since it's the highlight."

Gunwoo nods from within the recording booth, settling the headphones onto his head.

The unreleased song loops a few times and Cheongryeo can see the gears working in Gunwoo's head, absorbing it all. He has to admire Gunwoo's odd trait of putting his all into something even if he thinks it's troublesome or doesn't want to do it. It certainly helps Cheongryeo a lot. He wonders briefly if it's something he was born with, or a characteristic that appeared later from experience. In the very least, he knew that Gunwoo shouldered responsibility seriously.

"I think I can try it now," Gunwoo announces, and the producer nods, setting up the instrumental.

"Already?" Judan's eyes are wide. "He only listened three times."

"No way, is he secretly really good?"

"I mean, if Jaehyun-hyung had him come here, then surely..."

The metronome counts two bars of silence before the music kicks in, and Gunwoo is singing sincerely and meaningfully. While it's a song upon first listen no doubt very VTIC themed and inspired, it doesn't sound odd from a non-VTIC member's voice. Or maybe that was because Gunwoo was singing it?

Of course he would be good at singing. TeSTAR's Park Moondae had always been good at singing, and had only gotten better as the show progressed and following debut. Even if Gunwoo had practiced in a different body, it was still him who had practiced and understood the techniques that came with the skill, whether knowingly or not.

"Oooh!" The producer's eyes are twinkling and Cheongryeo knows he has won.

Gunwoo completes the chorus, falling back from his immersion in the song. "Thank you," He says softly.

"Well... this is definitely not something I expected to happen today," The producer begins mumbling to himself, but again, it's loud enough for the entire studio to hear it. "Yes, yes... with a few tweaks here and there, i can totally..."

"Well?" Cheongryeo's voice snaps the producer out of his reverie. "What do you think? How about we let him keep this song?"

"Ahem! Well, certainly, I think I can agree to that," The producer straightens his posture. "If you think you can convince your team, that is."

"Please don't worry about that part," Cheongryeo says sweetly. "If you agree, then you can consider it done."

"Then, yes, I do agree," The producer turns to Gunwoo in the recording booth, "What do you think, young man? It is also important for the singer to agree to have their vocals possibly shared."

"...I'll think about it," Gunwoo says, but Cheongryeo knows he wants to decline. He only sang because Cheongryeo made him.

"I'll await your reply, then," The producer sounded like he wasn't going to give up. "I would have hoped to be the producer for your debut song, but if fate has other plans, then it can't be helped."

"I'll take care of the movement behind the scenes," Cheongryeo's proposal is smartly worded as if the offer had been accepted anyway. "It will be an easy process. In place of VTIC's comeback, LeTi will announce something grander."

Cheongryeo looks to Gunwoo with a small expectation the man might say something to retort, but he doesn't. Gunwoo opts to silently listen to the conversation between Cheongryeo and the producer.

Cheongryeo decides to see how much he can push Gunwoo further. If he wouldn't react to this, would he react to something else?

"How much time do you have left?" He asks the producer.

"I had anticipated this might take a while, so a good three hours," The producer replies. "If it ended early then I'd have free time. A win-win."

"Indeed," Cheongryeo hums, then asks, "Do you think you could record the whole song with Gunwoo-hyung right now?"

"Eh?" Cheongryeo hears one of his member's surprised noise, but ignores it.

"Oh, I think that's totally possible. It's not like we have to change anything major so a few minor tweaks to make the song suit Gunwoo-ssi better would be fine," The producer sounds eager to stay, even. "Of course, if the man in question is alright with it."

"..." Gunwoo looks to Cheongryeo, a silent question begging in his eyes.

Cheongryeo humours him. "Just record it for now and see how you feel. Just because your version of the song exists doesn't mean it'll get released."

A sigh is all Cheongryeo gets in response, but it's enough for him.

He claps his heads. "Let's get to it."

For the next few hours, Cheongryeo, Gunwoo, and the producer record a new version of the song, one that suits Gunwoo's vocals that are calm yet full, carrying what sounds like years' worth of experience and technique entangled together elegantly. Compared to Park Moondae's brighter tone, Gunwoo's was darker, but not emotionally so. As if the day had switched to night, the unmatched method of TeSTAR's Park Moondae's vocals were still evident even through the use of another voice.

Having schedules of their own to attend, the four other members of VTIC had left the studio at different times, but all were reluctant to leave, wanting to hear the final version of the song. If Cheongryeo's schedule was oddly clear for once, none said a word.

"I think that does it," The producer stretches in his chair, and both Cheongryeo and Gunwoo thank him for his hard work. "Once I'm finished mixing the vocals in, I'll send you the final product, Cheongryeo-ssi. Oh, or should I send it to Manager Ryu over here?"

"You can send it to me," Cheongryeo says, his signature smile-not-smile on his face. "Please expect good news."

"I'm sure, if VTIC's Cheongryeo says so," The producer laughs and packs his equipment. "It seems like LeTi's talents are abundant."

"Thank you," Cheongryeo replies simply.

Gunwoo bids the producer farewell as he leaves the studio, and immediately turns to Cheongryeo.

"This is way above my pay grade."

"Haha!" Cheongryeo lets out a genuine laugh. "How did you feel recording, hyung?"

"Fine," He says, "It wasn't particularly challenging or hard. I feel like I knew what to do."

"It gets repetitive," Cheongryeo agrees, but files that statement into his mind.

"But why did you tell him to send you the final product?" Gunwoo asks, "Aren't I the manager? Or are you switching my job responsibilities suddenly on me again?"

"It's exactly as you said, hyung. You're the manager, but the manager of VTIC," Cheongryeo reminds him with a nod, "You can handle anything related to the group. For yourself, don't worry about it."

"I don't feel so comfortable having my things be managed by you, though," Gunwoo mumbles, but it's loud enough for Cheongryeo to hear and he knows it's on purpose.

So he laughs, letting Gunwoo know he heard that.

"I told you before, didn't I?" Cheongryeo gathers their belongings and places Gunwoo's in the man's outstretched hands. "I can show you a better life."

Gunwoo huffs and wordlessly takes his bag, but Cheongryeo knows him well enough now to know that he was suppressing a laugh. Likely a laugh about how ridiculous Cheongryeo's statement sounded to him, but still a laugh.

Cheongryeo almost wanted to comment on it and say something insensitive, such as, "See? You're laughing. Did you ever laugh around that kid, Park Moondae?" but held it in. Gunwoo probably would not appreciate such a remark.

"But," Unexpectedly, Gunwoo picks up the conversation again. Cheongryeo, who was about to leave, turns back to him. "As much as the producer liked it, the song is too much."

"Too much?"

"It was originally written for VTIC, who are known for their performance," Gunwoo says, like it's a fact. It is. "So there are elements for power and obvious breaks for dance. It's not something a solo singer who can't dance would release."

Did Gunwoo know what he was saying right now? The corner of Cheongryeo's lips lifted mischievously.

"Who said you were going to debut?" Cheongryeo asked, amused by how quickly Gunwoo's ears turned red at the question. "Don't tell me that was on your mind because the producer liked the idea?"

"...The way you both were talking made it sound like you were going to have me release that song," Gunwoo argues, though not very firmly.

"Well, if you wanted it to happen, then I could pull some strings," Cheongryeo smiles widely. "All you need to do is ask."

"You're impossible," Gunwoo huffs once more, but it's filled with disbelief and frustration this time. Gunwoo turns to leave the studio first, not bothering to wait for the younger man.

Cheongryeo himself laughs this time.

Ryu Gunwoo was so oddly endearing. Stubborn yet obedient, the next time he, the producer, and Cheongryeo found themselves in the studio, Gunwoo ended up recording two more songs that were b-sides of the same album. In the end, it was up to him which song he liked better.

His choice surprised Cheongryeo. Pleasantly so, but still surprising.

As Cheongryeo moves to officially announce VTIC's comeback cancellation, another team is assembled under his meticulous care. Kim Taein seemed to have a few words he wanted to exchange between them, but Cheongryeo decided to ignore the CEO in name only for the moment.

"Trust the process. When have I made a mistake?" He told Taein.

"There you go with the I've never made a mistake excuse again," The old man had said, "You young people never learn."

Was Cheongryeo still considered younger than him considering all his past lives? Or did they not count because Cheongryeo had never lived passed a certain age? He supposed it depended on how one decided to look at things.

Tears of the Internet flood beneath VTIC's newest post, mixed reactions to the sudden, but also somewhat expected, news.

=======

┗ well I mean... it's not like anyone was expecting b*han to get exposed lol they don't have time to erase him from all the comeback prep so it's probably best that it got cancelled

┗ nooo I was so looking forward to this <////3

┗ rest up!!!

┗ this is blowing up big time cuz it's the "only" time vtic ever messed up lmaooo it's probably only gonna go down from here

┗ ┗ how much do you want to bet that everything else has always just been covered up

It was time for some damage control.

When you want the Internet to forget about one thing, give them something even bigger to chat about.

Cheongryeo sets up his phone and ring light and goes live.

- am I dreaming???

- CHR LIVE OMGOGMOGM

- i was here

- jaehyun???? live??

- IM WITNESSING A HISTORICAL MOMENT

"Hello, Tika," Cheongryeo greets gently, "Sorry to start on a sad note, but I'm sure you have all seen the post. Yes, VTIC's comeback has been cancelled. I apologize to everyone who had been waiting patiently for us."

- it's ok!

- so it's true :c

- we can wait longer!!!!

"I regret what happened, but I regret more the fact that VTIC has nothing to show you this time," That much was true. Even if he had planned this, the stages he had thrown away left a gaping hole in his heart. Cheongryeo reminded himself that more were to come if he could endure these few losses.

Cheongryeo is an ambitious idol, too.

"But I've received permission to share something," Cheongryeo turned his eyes to his open laptop next to him. "I think Tika will like it. Would you care to listen to a song?"

- YES

- an unreleased song?? or am I reaching

- JAEHYUN WE LOVE YOU

- turning my volume upppp

Cheongryeo opens the email thread shared between him and the producer from before and downloads an MP3 file they had sent back and forth, small changes added each time it crossed the digital plane. There's also an additional sound file, but it's still being tossed between them, so Cheongryeo makes sure to play the right one.

"I won't say too much before playing it."

Cheongryeo presses play and what would have been the title track of VTIC's newest album traveled through the speakers. Of course, it wasn't the actual unreleased song, since one of their members could no longer be publicly associated with the group anymore.

It takes a moment for the live stream to catch up.

- UNRELEASED SONG???

- WAIT IS THIS A DEMO

- SPOILER??

Cheongryeo himself sings along to a few parts that were originally his, recalling how he promoted and performed this song in the past. While it wasn't one of VTIC's most successful releases (which didn't say much considering the group's general success), it was one that shifted the attention from the unexpectedly popular Idol Inc. show back to VTIC in the last life.

As the song fades to a close, Cheongryeo claps to signal its end.

"It's a good song, isn't it?" He asks the fans watching. "To be honest..."

- what is it tho???

- IT WAS SO GOOD

- who's singing

"That was the demo for the cancelled comeback."

Not the real demo, but the version Cheongryeo made Gunwoo record.

"We won't be reusing this song, so I asked for permission to share it," Cheongryeo lies as easily as he breathes. "It's a shame, but we have many more things prepared to show Tika, so I hope this is enough of an apology for letting you down this time."

Someone must have shared something somewhere, as Cheongryeo's viewer count spikes, numbers flying upwards. Briefly, Cheongryeo realizes the amount of viewers could fill a small stadium.

"I really like this singer," Cheongryeo says as his viewer count continues to go up and up. "What do you think?"

The comments are too fast for Cheongryeo to pick out individually, but the general consensus appears to be positive.

"I knew Tika would like this kind of sound," Cheongryeo grinned, laughing lightly. "I also like it. Maybe if we had met ten years ago, I would have pulled him into VTIC."

As Cheongryeo continues to make small talk with his viewers, a notification banner drops down on his screen. Opening it would disrupt the stream, so he's only able to read the first bit, but...

Ryu Gunwoo
What the heck are yo...

It's then quickly replaced by another.

Ryu Gunwoo
Turn that off and answ...

Cheongryeo can't help but chuckle at the comedic timing. To spite the man more, Cheongryeo proceeds to laugh out loud.

"Oops, it looks like the singer is watching the stream, too," Cheongryeo straightens his posture and properly greets the camera. "I hope you're having a good night. I really enjoy your singing."

- WHO IS IT

- does no one know who the singer is?

- SINGER-NIM PLEASE MAKE YOURSELF KNOWN

"It is getting late, though," Cheongryeo peers at his clock, reading twenty past one. "Staying up this late isn't good for your health. Let's all get some sleep, okay Tika?"

Cheongryeo flashes one last smile at the camera.

"I promise to stream more often. I love you, Tika."

The moment his stream ends, Cheongryeo's phone rings loudly. The same name on the banners from earlier blare with the ringer, as if yelling at Cheongryeo to pick up. He entertains the idea of pretending to have actually gone to bed, but answers the call.

"Gun—"

"What the hell did you just share? In front of thousands of people?" Comes Gunwoo's impatient and angry voice. Cheongryeo may have also lied about whatever permission he got.

"Not a lot of people can get promotion from me like this," Cheongryeo tuts, "It's generating attention for your debut."

"You said I wasn't going to debut, now you're saying I will. Why are you contradicting yourself? Pull your head down from the clouds before your brain condensates."

"Relax, hyung. Think of it as a change of pace."

"There was never a pace to begin with."

"I know you haven't done much as our manager considering the one comeback we would have had with you was cancelled," Cheongryeo admits, "But don't think too much. Just do this one favour for me, please? If you don't like being a singer, then you can quit."

"You make it sound so easy."

"Because it is easy," Cheongryeo's voice drops in tone, a serious air settling in. "If you don't like it, I have lots of ways to make sure your face doesn't appear on the Internet again."

"In any other context, that sounds like a threat. Just what do you do, Shin Jaehyun?"

"Haha."

A loud sigh is heard from the other side. Neither of the two say a word for a moment, the silence growing heavier with each second. It was a battle of nerves to see who would break it first.

Cheongryeo could wait forever. He was practically immortal.

Gunwoo was not. He clicks his tongue, "You're scheming."

"Let's go to bed, Gunwoo-hyung," Cheongryeo's tone is bright again and he doesn't acknowledge Gunwoo's accusation. "I'm sure something wonderful will happen during our sleep tonight."

"..." Cheongryeo can feel Gunwoo's dead gaze before the other man wordlessly hangs up. Amused, Cheongryeo prepares for bed.

He checks the trending page one last time before he goes to sleep, satisfied to see himself and his stream contents dominating the top three spots.

Cheongryeo places his phone on his nightstand closes his eyes.

He, Gunwoo, and all people on Earth might sleep, but the Internet was always awake.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

=======

CHR LIVESTREAM UPDATES:
Cheongryeo plays the cancelled comeback's title track demo. The singer is unknown.
[chr_livestream_clip.vid]

🗨️ 2,390 ↺ 19.8k ♡ 34.5k

=======

┗ it sounds sooo good.... dammit b*han what the hell

┗ WE LOST

┗ does seriously no one know who the singer is???

┗┗ nope. it seems like no one has ever heard this before.

=======

trying to find who sang that vtic demo is like a crazy mass round of masked singer

🗨️ 283 ↺ 12.4k ♡ 16.8k

=======

┗ LOLLL FOR REAL

┗ but like usually there are some crazy ppl who always can guess the singer and no one seems to know who this is?

┗┗ the only clue we have is that chr likes them and talks with them and he's never said that about anyone I think?

┗┗┗ that's not even a clue bro

=======

guys hear me out, what if the mystery singer is AI

🗨️ 97 ↺ 4.5k ♡ 8k

=======

┗ we live in such a world where that could be true damn...

┗ I doubt it. AI still needs a human voice to copy from, right? we'd hear at least some voice.

┗┗ idk man technology is kinda crazyyy

┗ idt so cuz jaehyunie said he likes the singer so it's gotta be a real person right

=======

I swear mystery singer is right under our noses and we're all going to facepalm at the same time when we find out who it is

🗨️ 104 ↺ 5.6k ♡ 8.7k

=======

┗ well that's the thing op we don't know who it is

┗ im a music student and have heard probably a million voices and yet I can't tell who sounds like this that might also have ties to leti and chr

┗┗ ohhhh youre right... if they sang a demo for vtic then they must be associated with some sort of music company right

┗ I will film myself facepalming with a cream pie strapped to my hand if we ever find out who this mystery singer is

=======

[NEW!] RYU GUNWOO - 'Starlight' Studio Ver.
[b&w_filter_unidentifiable_man_singing_in_studio.vid]

🗨️ disabled

=======

[NEW!] LeTi Entertainment releases New Singer Content — could this be the "mystery singer"?

🗨️ 3,588

=======

┗ IT'S HIM IT'S HIM IT'S HIM

┗ BRO SOUNDS EXACTLY LIKE MYSTERY SINGER

┗ wait so is he a trainee??? like idol trainee or a singer?

┗ where's cream pie from the palm to the face guy

=======

EVERYONE DID YOU SEE THE WRITING CREDITS FOR STARLIGHT BY RYU GUNWOO

🗨️ 113 ↺ 9.8k ♡ 17.3k

=======

┗ WAIT chr wrote the lyrics???

┗ oh jaehyun and gunwoo are CLOSE close

┗ I'm glad he streamed bc I would've been so confused like who is this and why did this have to drop now

┗┗ no lowkey like the timing was so bad;; if jaehyun didn't stream I'd think leti was trying to push aside the whole cancelled comeback thing

=======

New Face Spotted at LeTi Entertainment: What Comes After the Legend VTIC? [HOT]

🗨️ 6,894

=======

┗ I WAS LIKE WHY IS THIS ARTICLE GETTING SO MUCH ATTENTION AGAIN AND I JUST REALIZED WHATTT

┗ wait HE'S the guy we saw coming out of the leti building????

┗ we can't see ryu gunwoo's face, but this... who else could this be...

┗ DUDE THIS ARTICLE IS FROM MONTHS AGOOO LETI AND CHR BEEN HIDING HIM

=======

so just a few months ago people saw ryu gunwoo coming out of the leti building, specifically the exit that celebrities take, and vtic's cheongryeo leaked audio of him singing on his live stream last night and said he liked his singing. oh boy we've connected the DOTS

🗨️ 102 ↺ 11.3k ♡ 15.6k

=======

┗ so he's a trainee I guess?

┗ why didn't they send him onto idol inc. I wonder

┗┗ but that's for idols yeah?? ryu gunwoo seems like just a singer

┗┗┗ bro is speculating from one vid

=======

you'd think know that we've got a name that we can find any more info but like lol why can't I find anything abt this ryu gunwoo guy. he's like park moondae from idol inc., can't find anything on them

🗨️ 138 ↺ 17.8k ♡ 20.4k

=======

┗ no me neither...

┗ I only found out gunwoo this goat went to yeonhui, but moondae is like an alien

┗ guys chill he hasn't even debuted yet

┗ kinda insensitive to bring up moondae rn what if we get a repeat of what happened lolol, let's not be so desperate for info

=======

I'm scared of telling the world this, but if it's for his sake, then I will write. ...

🗨️ 215 ↺ 30.4k ♡ 40.7k

=======

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

Standing higher than everyone else, Gunwoo dropped his arms back to his side, letting out a long, deep breath.

"You did well," Cheongryeo comes from behind and places his hand on Gunwoo's shoulder.

"I don't know," Comes Gunwoo's response.

"Getting cold feet now? The big day is tomorrow."

Following the release of Gunwoo's Starlight video, LeTi further announced a special stage for Ryu Gunwoo at Music Bomb. With the final rehearsal having just concluded, unease made itself known on Gunwoo's face and actions. While this stage was not labeled an official debut or the sort, it was still a public stunt that LeTi was pulling for the first time since VTIC's debut.

Gunwoo definitely knew this, considering his previous job, and was likely beginning to feel the pressure of being the act coming after VTIC.

"Remember what I told you," Cheongyreo takes off his hand and goes to stand in front of Gunwoo. "This is a chance."

Right, it was a chance. A chance for many things. A chance for Gunwoo to re-enter the spotlight he clearly enjoyed so much as TeSTAR's Park Moondae, a chance to leave the shady market that was data selling, a chance for Cheongryeo to flaunt his and Gunwoo's relationship publicly...

"A chance to meet your dongsaeng again."

...but the only chance he told Gunwoo this opportunity held was the chance to meet Park Moondae as singers. Emphasizing this point, he revealed that Idol Inc. contestants were to perform on the same stage they stood on in three days.

"As fellow singers, it wouldn't be so odd for you two to be seen together," Cheongryeo reminds him, "It wouldn't affect Park Moondae's good reputation to be seen with a figure from LeTi."

Gunwoo stares at Cheongryeo for a moment, gaze piercing and cold, but not quite a glare. 

"Was this your plan all along?" He asks Cheongryeo. There's nothing in his flat tone that Cheongryeo can use to decipher his thoughts. "Why you brought me into LeTi and had me stay so close to VTIC?"

"So you've realized now," Cheongryeo's smile doesn't quite reach his eyes. "I always have your best intentions in mind, Gunwoo-hyung."

"..." Something about his expression has Cheongryeo thinking that Gunwoo doesn't quite believe him.

"I said I had an eye for talent, and look at where Park Moondae is now?" Cheongryeo takes out his phone and immediately opens his social media. "First place in Idol Inc., consistently appearing in top searches, and there are people desperate enough to know more about him that they do ridiculous things. He'll be out of your league at this rate, hyung."

"Don't talk about him like you know him," Gunwoo snaps, but it's without any bite, like he believes that to be true. "He wouldn't think of anybody like that."

"Maybe not him, but what about everyone else? What if people find out Park Moondae is friends with an idol data seller?" Cheongryeo doesn't miss Gunwoo's twitching frown. "He'd be better off having people find out he's friends with a LeTi singer. You won't have to meet secretly or fear something will happen to him again because people want to know what he does in his personal life."

At those words, Gunwoo turns his heel and leaves the stage, his grip on the microphone tightening. Cheongryeo leaves Gunwoo on his own, able to read the room and understanding that Gunwoo did not want to speak with him any longer. In Gunwoo's eyes, he was only being forced to do these things and was thus unable to be with Park Moondae when he needed him.

With time, Cheongryeo believed he would truly come to enjoy these activities and see there truly was benefit in becoming a singer himself. A small, dark spot in the back of his mind told him this might be one of the ways himself and Park Moondae were similar, in that they both wanted Gunwoo to be in the place he shone the most, even if their methods and views were different.

Cheongryeo didn't mind being labelled evil if that's what Park Moondae and his friends thought. At the end of the day, it was him putting Gunwoo on stage while they fought amongst themselves to debut with no clear goal of what to do with Gunwoo in mind.

And, just as Cheongryeo expected, hype around Gunwoo's performance skyrocketed following the stage. Despite being so close in time with Idol Inc.'s third team stage, Gunwoo's own gave a steady fight. Where Idol Inc. was mentioned, Gunwoo was also.

The fight between Idol Inc. and Gunwoo's buzz remained at a stalemate for days. Even once Cheongryeo's own schedules began running again, all his feed was showing him were alternating posts about popular trainees or the new LeTi act.

Yet, in a few weeks, this feed would change again.

"Cheongryeo-ssi? Are you ready?" Came a voice from outside the waiting room door. Cheongryeo pocketed his phone and went to answer it.

"I am," He nodded, "I'll be there shortly."

Straightening his collar, Cheongryeo walked through familiar halls and onto the nostalgic set.

From the crew, cameraman held up a large flip sign and used it to as a countdown. Cheongryeo stepped forwards, a hand placed on a doorknob that led to a small room.

As the countdown reached zero, he opened the door with just enough force to make a dramatic entrance fitting for the camera. His expression is kind and professional and one that has been used to melt the hearts of many, but the person in front of him is rigid and frozen.

"Hello, nice to meet you," He says, "I'm enjoying the show."

Chapter Text

Starlight.

Moondae replays the video over and over, staring blankly at the black and white screen. He feels like he can see the face of the person in the video if he dipped his head a little lower and stretched his eyes upwards a bit more.

The four other members of TeSTAR silently view their new friend from a distance, unsure of how to approach him. While all five people with memories of the last timeline were close friends with Ryu Gunwoo, after the short breakdown Moondae had in response to Keun Sejin's words, they became unsure in their knowledge regarding the relationship between Park Moondae and Ryu Gunwoo.

TeSTAR's Park Moondae had not mentioned a word of the real Park Moondae. Of course, a part of the reason must have been the fact that they swapped bodies, but to have not even alluded to their relationship and claim memory loss was an entire additional decision.

"Maybe we should call it a night," Sejin suggests, rubbing his nape if just to do something with his hands, wringing out any awkward air. "It's getting late, and I think we all need some time to process things."

"Thank you for having us over, Ahyeon-hyungnim," Raebin bows towards Ahyeon who's automatically bowing back. "See you again in the trainees' dorms."

"Yeah! It was great," Yujin hurries to catch up with Raebin who's chiding at him to not over-welcome his stay now that the night has been called off. As Yujin, Raebin, and Sejin leave Ahyeon's flat, none of the three mention Moondae's idle figure still staring at his phone.

Ahyeon knows that Sejin suggested to end the night for Moondae's sake, though, so he doesn't ask if Moondae is going to leave as well. Though it has only been a few months, Ahyeon and Sejin have learned of the real Park Moondae's character and preferences, and understood the man needed some quiet time to process what had happened without distractions.

Ahyeon quietly places a glass of water on the table, though the sound seems to bring Moondae out of his thoughts.

"Oh... thank you," Moondae reaches for the cup and takes a sip, then another, as if realizing how dry his throat had gotten.

"O-Of course," Ahyeon plays with his hands as Moondae puts the cup back down. His eyes dart between him and the space beside him on the sofa.

"You can sit," Moondae offers, noticing Ahyeon's anxious movements. It comes out more like a suggestion rather than an offer, like Moondae thinks Ahyeon should sit down regardless.

"O-Okay...."

Ahyeon moves to sit next to Moondae, his posture straight and stiff. Moondae shuts off his phone and tosses it to the side, watching it bounce on the soft cushions of the sofa, like he can't bare to part ways with it despite knowing he needs to. After all, the person on the screen didn't know he was there watching him.

"I don't get it, I just don't get it," He says to himself, but also loud enough for Ahyeon to hear. "What's happening?"

It takes so much mental energy for Moondae to piece together a timeline of events. Cheongryeo regresses with him, steals Gunwoo away, goes radio silent until Bihan is kicked out, and a video of Ryu Gunwoo is posted by LeTi.

He's unpredictable to Moondae. Though the phone has been shut off, he can still hear the ghost of Gunwoo's voice ringing through his head.

A scarier thought also runs through Moondae's head, one that he fears to entertain and is afraid to touch. It was filled with truth and things Moondae already knew to be fact, but that was what made it scarier. The truth was worse than whatever easier fantasy Moondae could conjure up.

What if hyung chose to do this?

He didn't dare answer this question. Yet, the guilt he felt not approaching the topic chewed at his brain, keeping him ever so aware of the possibility.

TeSTAR's Park Moondae loved to sing for his supporters.

Am I getting in his way now?

Moondae could offer nothing that Cheongryeo could but a miserable reminder of his demise.

"I... I don't know w-what's happening either," Ahyeon supplies before Moondae's deepening spiral can twist further. "B-But at least Gunwoo-hyung looks o-okay."

"Right..."

"D-Do you want to s-stay for the night?" Ahyeon asks, leaning in closer towards Moondae to offer some comfort. "I-In the very least, s-selfishly... I don't w-want you t-to be alone with y-your thoughts."

Moondae also thought he shouldn't be alone right now. His heart felt warm.

To Moondae, it's a beautiful liberty to have the choice to be alone or not, who up until recently, had none.

"Yeah... okay, thank you, Ahyeon," He says, a smile returning to his face, "I'll take you up on that."

Ahyeon's own face brightens and he quickly stands up. "I-I'll go prepare your room!"

The mood is lifted as Ahyeon scurries over to the guest room and runs in and out with various items to make Moondae comfortable. Briefly, Moondae feels sorry for his earlier depression and possibly making Ahyeon feel pressured to help, but his doubts are erased as Ahyeon diligently and meaningfully prepares the room.

It's a wonderful contrast to how Gunwoo must have made Ahyeon feel like he was being taken care of, and now Moondae was receiving that care from Ahyeon.

"Thanks, Ahyeon," Moondae walks over to the room where Ahyeon is laying down the sheets. "It means a lot to me."

"Don't m-mention it!" Ahyeon shakes his head. "K-Keundal, h-how about..."

Ahyeon plays with his fingers, looking back and forth between Moondae and the rest of the room. "W-Well, we have a f-few days until we need to g-get back to the dorm..."

"Yes?" Moondae gently coaxes the rest of Ahyeon's thoughts out.

"H-How about, um... you s-stay here u-until then?" Ahyeon offers shyly, lightly balling his fists in front of his chest. "I-I usually stay alone, anyway! A-And we can talk about the s-stage together, a-and other things..."

Moondae's eyes widen slightly, then turn up into crescents. "I'd love to!"

"Great...!"

Moondae happily accepts Ahyeon's offer, a light and fluffy feeling washing over him. It's not anything overly complicated, but he can't explain it simply, either. His body feels so light that he's practically skipping back to the living room to collect his bag.

"Ah," He rummages through the small amount of items he had brought, not expecting to stay longer than one evening. "Sorry, Ahyeon, I don't really have a lot of things..."

"You can u-use mine," Ahyeon suggests, "O-Or if you have things you r-really need, l-let's go back and g-get them together."

"Sure," Moondae takes out his wallet from his bag, "Let me also treat you to something as thanks, Ahyeon."

"Y-You don't need to d-do that!" Ahyeon quickly protests, ears turning red. Moondae laughs and gently takes Ahyeon by the arm, pulling him towards the door.

"I insist."

On the way to the station, Moondae looks around the neighbourhood, pointing out different restaurants and food stalls, eyes shining at the seemingly endless choices.

Ahyeon, who's still being held by Moondae, smiles softly at the sight.

"What do you like to e-eat, Keundal?"

"I'm not picky," Moondae replies honestly. "Anything is good to me. What about you?"

Moondae tries his best to keep up the small talk, his hands clinging to Ahyeon's sleeve tighter and tighter as the crowd around them grows. Of course there would be a lot of people—Ahyeon wasn't like Moondae, who lived in the middle of nowhere, but lived in the city centre, where people regularly worked and played.

Ahyeon seemed to catch on to Moondae's nerves.

"Keundal? A-Are you okay...?"

Ahyeon trails off as he follows Moondae's gaze and lands his eyes on a promotional poster at the station. It's one of Moondae with fan notes stuck on its sign, wishing him good luck, health, and debut.

It's heartwarming. Ahyeon's own heart flutters at how starstruck Moondae seems, seeing his advertisement and the attention and love its received. There had been Idol Inc. trainee advertisements up in the subway for a while, so this must not have been the first time Moondae came across his own. Still, Moondae was surprised and touched, which Ahyeon thought was too sweet.

Another thought passes through Ahyeon, though.

"Ah..." Ahyeon's eyes drop downward, and he returns Moondae's gentle grasp on him. "M-Maybe... we s-should've worn d-disguises."

"Oh..." Moondae looks around, and indeed, there are some people either openly staring at them and recording, or people whispering and pointing. "I didn't think about that..."

Moondae looked slightly to his side and up at his friend. Ahyeon was bound to get attention wherever he went, what, with that handsome face of his. Moondae, being his companion, was also bound to get some curious looks. Though, the advertisement of a man who looked like his twin didn't help.

"L-Let's hurry," Ahyeon suggests, and they pull their hoods up the rest of the way to Moondae's place.

It wasn't like Moondae lived in a sketchy part of the city, but it was definitely a far cry from where Ahyeon's flat was located. Buildings were short with a few dilapidated, yet no sign of reconstruction or renovation showed. It was certainly not a place to raise a family, but it was fine for single residents with less change to spare. It was the best Moondae could get, as someone living off of what the government could spare him.

It was dark out due to the lack of street lights, but Moondae navigated the area quickly. Afraid to lose Ahyeon in a place the dancer was unfamiliar with, Moondae held onto him tightly.

"Okay, we're here," Moondae pulls out his keys and twists it in the lock. "It's a bit messy, but... oh... hm?"

"W-What's wrong?" Ahyeon asks from behind Moondae.

Moondae paused his movements, staring down at the key still embedded in the doorknob. He takes his hand off, takes a deep breath, and places his hand on the key again.

Dread spills in his stomach.

"It..." Moondae's vision swims as he forces out the words, "It's unlocked."

It's so quiet that Ahyeon's soft gasp echoes through the corridor. At least, that meant the perpetrators were no longer in the vicinity and it was just the two of them, but Moondae couldn't help the fear that pumped through his veins with each heartbeat.

The faces of those girls at the police station were fresh in his mind.

"Fine... it's fine..." He tells himself slowly, "There's no one here."

With that, he opens the door.

The homely living space was transformed into a crime scene. While Moondae did not have many belongings, it suddenly looked like he owned hundreds of items with the way anything and everything was turned upside down, flipped, and cluttered across the floor.

"Ah—!" Ahyeon slipped on some rag on the floor, losing his balance. Thankfully, he didn't fall. "T-This is... h-horrible..."

"I forgot..." Moondae brings his hands up to his face, and it's upon feeling his own haggard breath on his skin that he realizes how anxious he really is. "I've been so focused on other things, I..."

"I-It's not your f-fault, Keundal," Ahyeon reaches over and offers a hug from behind. Over Moondae's shoulder, he can peer deeper into the room, where even the trash can has been tipped over and emptied.

"I forgot, but I prepared," Moondae answers Ahyeon's silent question, "I knew this was going to happen when I first returned to my body and entered Idol Inc., so I got rid of a lot of my old paperwork... you can get a lot of those documents online now, so I thought it was fine... but I guess they—they got angry that they couldn't find anything and thought it must be here."

Even Gunwoo, who had foreseen the possibility of something like this occurring and shredded Park Moondae's paperwork had fallen victim to having personal information leaked. Moondae had shredded and disposed of any condemning documents in different locations to prevent this.

But he still didn't think it'd happen to him.

"Why did this happen?"

Ahyeon let go of Moondae, prompting Moondae to turn around and face him. Ahyeon replied in a small voice.

"Keundal... a-are you active online?" He asks.

"..."

"I remember h-how surprised y-you were at getting f-first place..." Ahyeon's voice is small and reminiscent of how he used to be before regaining his confidence. "Keundal, t-there are a l-lot... a lot of p-people who are c-curious about you."

"But why? To this extent? I don't understand," Moondae looks down and he can't even see the floor with all the junk littered around.

"Y-You sing well, h-have a lot of g-great ideas, are a n-normal civilian w-with no training..." There's more Ahyeon seems to want to say, but he stops the list there.

"But there's," Moondae's shoulders fall as he confesses, "Nothing about me that's interesting."

All Moondae can recall is living like a wallflower, a small decoration to what made up the greater society, and slowly withering away when what he had to offer dwindled with the death of his family. There, no one paid him great amounts of attention, and even went out of their way to not associate with some kid with troubles too heavy for adult shoulders.

Even when he tried to hide those things about himself did Moondae fail to reintegrate. Unable to stay in school or keep a job, he had lost his place on the wall.

It must have been because he wasn't charismatic, smart, or accomplished like Gunwoo was, who overcame similar difficulties and managed fine on his own. It must have been because he wasn't special.

So what if he could sing? What if he was a normal civilian trying to debut? He wasn't Gunwoo, who could find ways to twist all the negative things about Park Moondae into some fascinating fact.

All that would be left should Park Moondae be known was disappointment.

"You're special to us," Is all Ahyeon offers as a response. "K-Keundal, do you w-want to report this?"

"...No," Moondae sighs and turns his head away from the mess, not wanting to face it anymore. "Other than some clothes, I don't have anything of value in here anymore. I'll clean it up when I have time and move somewhere else. I don't want to disturb my neighbours who are in worse situations than me."

Understanding where the answer was coming from considering the hopeless response from the police last time, Ahyeon doesn't try to change Moondae's mind. Instead, they leave the small room and don't look back. Moondae doesn't end up taking anything from his place, opting to re-purchase items like his toothbrush and towels elsewhere. Ahyeon offers to pay, but Moondae's conscience would rather have himself go broke.

If he debuted, he would re-earn this money again. Such a delusional thought drove his impulsive actions.

He also promises to Ahyeon, "I'll monitor what people are saying more."

Moondae curses at how it had taken such an extremity to force him to realize how tunneled his vision had gotten. There was truly nothing outside of VTIC, LeTi, and Ryu Gunwoo that Moondae was aware of occurring around him.

"I'll be careful."

Suddenly, Moondae feels more self-conscious. Even more so than when people were actually looking at him earlier at the station.

As they return to Ahyeon's flat, Moondae's phone lights up.

"Keundal..." Ahyeon, who saw a glimpse of the message as Moondae brought his phone up to check, approaches worryingly.

Raebin had sent one message.

Kim Raebin
Moondae-hyungnim, I saw the post. Are you doing alright?

There's no other context. Moondae is afraid to ask what he's referring to. With anxious fingers, he opens his social media because there's only one thing Moondae can think of that would alert Raebin, the only member regularly up this late at night.

He searches his name and a new post appears.

=======

I'm scared of telling the world this, but if it's for his sake, then I will write.

A lot of people have become interested in the trainee named Park Moondae, and I've seen and overheard a lot of malicious things. I don't want the kind Park Moondae I knew to suffer, so I hope I can prevent something from happening by sharing my story.

=======

The post goes on to describe what had been a scandal the last time.

Moondae's eyes burn having to relive the painful memory through text. The bright screen glaring at him in the dark only adds to it.

=======

When my sanitary pad got stolen, I thought about how I'd rather die than live like this.

On top of it all, Park Moondae got caught in my problems, and was blamed for the incident when he had done nothing wrong. When I tried to contact him to apologize, he responded to me thoughtfully.

He said, "You didn't do anything wrong, so of course, you don't have to apologize, and it's fine. But if you're having a hard time and want to accuse the perpetrators who harassed you, I'll help."

I realized then that Park Moondae was a kind person.

=======

The writer had thoughtfully omitted the fact that Moondae was a dropout. Moondae thought others would connect the dots regardless, but it was a considerate gesture.

Moondae could recall sending this text and reassuring the girl that she had truly done nothing wrong, and that he was going to be labelled regardless of whether it was as a thief or a dropout.

To think those simple words had helped a life keep going.

=======

After I managed to distance myself from this incident, I could no longer contact Park Moondae. But when he appeared on the audition show, I recognized him immediately, and began rooting for him.

I thought that this friend had been through so much hardship, yet still stood strong. His personality was like that, caring but shy. In school, he was the same, and was never strange or a nuisance.

To my friend Moondae, who is selfless and deserving, thank you for helping me back then. I hope you can forgive me for sharing this part of your life to the world without permission, but I hope this can satiate the people who want to know more about you before anything regretful happens.

Because of you, I've gained the courage to face those who have wronged us and will proceed with a lawsuit.

I hope you will debut.

🗨️ 215 ↺ 30.4k ♡ 40.7k

=======

Several photos were attached to the post with yearbooks and group shots confirming the information to be true. Moondae felt like he was looking at something foreign as he gazed upon his younger self in a school uniform.

But all he could wonder as he skimmed the post over and over again was: why?

Why did people care so much about him to the point a post like this could be made? That people would find out where he lived and dig through his trash?

This story only existed because Park Moondae was a loner and easily dismissed.

He had done nothing to change himself so why was the world's view of him changing?

"I-It's late, Keundal," Ahyeon guides Moondae to his door and turns on the light inside so Moondae no longer has to stare at the bright screen in the dark. "Let's go i-inside..."

The night seems to go by like a dream. Before Moondae can pull his mind back together, he's in bed with a cup of warm water at his bedside. A mint is placed on a note beside the glass, telling Moondae to cheer up and feel better soon in Ahyeon's handwriting.

Yes, there was still a long way's to go and Moondae couldn't stagnate here. He silently thanks Ahyeon again, having lost count of how many times he's done so that night, and pops the mint into his mouth. The cool flavour wakes him up, but he's feeling more tired than ever.

He pulls the blanket up to his chin and closes his eyes. Sleep was the closest thing he could get to a pause in life.

— ✩‧₊˚ —

Moondae is the only one crying at the end of the third stage. His teammates gather around him and share one large group hug, but it only makes Moondae cry harder.

"You've worked hard, haven't you, Moondae?" Moondae can't tell who's speaking to him, but he nods. "Did you hear all those people chanting for you?"

Since the post had gone viral, more and more people began speaking out for Moondae, though none have been on the same level of intimacy as the original post since not many knew the trainee personally. It was mostly analyses of small things Moondae did throughout the show or people who had seen him outside since the show began to air sharing their thoughts on Moondae's personality, but it was positive attention at the end of the day.

It was rather overwhelming.

Moondae had already been nervous since Gunwoo had been standing on the same stage just three days ago and irrationally feared something to happen, but all went smoothly.

This feeling came back when he sat alone in a room with a quiz in front of him, though. A knot forms in his stomach that he can't get rid of.

He knew this was coming, but there was nothing he could do to prepare himself.

=======

10. You appear in <Re-listed! Idol Inc.>, which selects global K-pop idols who will be active worldwide. Through endless efforts, you ...

=======

Moondae can't bring himself to finish reading the last question. He feels like he's been shot somewhere, an odd feeling of getting the wind knocked out of him and stillness overtaking his body spreading in an uncomfortable heat.

Sweat rolls down the side of his head. He reaches to wipe it away, but is stopped by the sound of the door opening.

A familiar, but unwelcoming ambience settles in the room. Even without turning to face the person can Moondae feel their unrivaled allure.

"Hello."

Moondae hadn't heard this voice in months.

"Nice to meet you."

Liar.

"I'm enjoying the show."

Moondae shoots up from his seat and mechanically greets the legendary senior. Their handshake is awkward and clumsy, and from an outsider's point of view, Moondae's nervousness is almost cute.

Only Moondae and Cheongryeo can feel the sweat on Moondae's palms.

"T-Thank you," Moondae says quickly as their hands retract. He waits for Cheongryeo to take a seat before he does the same.

Suddenly the lights are too bright and the room is too small. The senior's polite smile turns sinister and wicked. The red lights on recording cameras begin to flash and Moondae can hear the tape rolling, capturing every breath he takes.

Then it's back to normal again.

"—come as a member of VTIC to extend a casting call from LeTi," Cheongryeo's voice filters in as the ringing in Moondae's ears settle. "Of course, this is not an offer open to all participants."

Cheongryeo's voice flows naturally, but Moondae can almost hear the sound of the script being typed as Cheongryeo recites this scene's words perfectly by heart. Although, this time, Cheongryeo does not bring up Moondae's answers to the questionnaire.

Moondae had answered differently from Gunwoo. Therefore, their answers could not have made their pairing for the casting call a reality. Whether it was because Moondae wanted to differentiate himself from Gunwoo as his conviction to debut with the TeSTAR members grew, or if he was subconsciously trying to avoid a face-to-face meeting with Cheongryeo, Moondae didn't try to figure himself out.

"I," He swallows thickly, "Am honoured to receive a casting call."

"There's no need to be nervous," Cheongryeo laughs, sliding the contract sheet and a pen in front of Moondae. "LeTi is the one asking, and you are the one answering. You are in power. What will you choose?"

No, obviously.

Moondae doesn't bother even picking up the pen before he rejects the offer.

"I want to see Idol Inc. to the end," He says boldly. "And I will make sure to return the investment costs those who have voted for Park Moondae have spent."

"I see."

Cheongryeo makes a show of ripping the contract in half once more.

"It's a shame," He says, turning back to Moondae. "I think LeTi would suit you well. I believe we have people you would get along well with, too."

It takes all Moondae has to suppress his emotions and not show them on his face.

"...I hope I can meet them as fellow singers in the future."

"I'm sure you will," Cheongryeo's icy smile had not budged once throughout the interaction.

Until the end, it was still hard to tell what he was thinking.

In front of him, Cheongryeo's gaze turns down towards Moondae, but his chin remains leveled. "This is the second time I've asked you to come to LeTi now, isn't it?"

"...It is," Moondae bites out.

"Who would've thought things would end up this way. You're extremely successful now," Cheongryeo sighs, but it's just for show. "To be honest, I thought you would have said yes this time. After all, your Gunwoo-hyung is at LeTi right now, preparing for a debut."

Moondae chooses not to reply to the bait.

"But it seems like you have some other motive now for keeping you here. That wouldn't be the case if Gunwoo-hyung was all you were chasing," Cheongryeo's playful expression drops into something painfully neutral. "You remember, don't you?"

"...W-What," Comes Moondae's clumsy response, "Do you mean?"

"You remember what happened in the last life, right, Moondae-ssi?" Cheongryeo takes a step forward as Moondae takes one back. "You're deliberately trying to play against me somehow by staying in this show. I loathe to admit that I don't know how, but I know for certain you hold a grudge against me."

Moondae doesn't recall ever interacting with Cheongryeo beyond the first day he opened his eyes in this life. There would have been no opportunity for a regular citizen like him to have a conversation with a VTIC member like this before today.

How did he find out?

Did he know about the other TeSTAR members?

"You're controlling Gunwoo-hyung," He decides not to ask or waste his breath for a response that would likely be sarcastic and shoots his accusation outright. "Someone who was in your way in the last life."

"Both of you have very negative ways of putting things," Cheongryeo tuts, shaking his head. "I thought we were allies."

"Allies? Me and you?" Moondae scoffs. "Why can't I contact Gunwoo-hyung, then? You're isolating him."

"You and I both want the same thing for him."

That makes Moondae pause.

"I'm helping him debut as an idol. Isn't that what his suppressed desire is?"

Suddenly, the bright blue screen hovering on Moondae's right looks a little more opaque, like it isn't something haunting him but a real screen that anyone can see and determine what Gunwoo wanted.

"I've been working with him for months. I know Gunwoo-hyung as much as you do, and as an idol myself, I can see his ambitions," Cheongryeo shrugs like it's a well-known fact. "And what can you do to help him with that?"

Moondae doesn't want to acknowledge what Cheongryeo is saying, but Cheongryeo doesn't seem to care.

"You're not any different from me."

Moondae's heart drops to his stomach. The impact makes him feel ill.

"What have you been doing all this time? Retracing Gunwoo-hyung's footsteps, letting things happen and approaching and solving them just like he did... Was it Lee Sejin who had a school violence scandal the other day?" Cheongryeo counts on his fingers as he describes Moondae's actions one by one like a shopping list. "You're just doing what I did as a regressor who redid everything so that they could turn in my favour."

"...No," Moondae's voice comes out softer than a breath. There's no hostility in it at all, even if he willed it. "We're different. We..."

"I suppose there is one thing that makes us different," Cheongryeo agrees, his tone slightly playful, contrasting his serious expression. "You have no means of doing it alone, so you cling to the thighs of TeSTAR. I don't need to do something like that to lift Gunwoo into stardom."

Cheongryeo lifts his wrist in front of him and looks down like he's checking the time, but Moondae knows it's a mocking gesture because of the lack of a watch on his arm. Moondae thinks he says something about being busy before he returns to the set, bidding farewell to the Idol Inc. staff before leaving with his own.

His words repeat over and over in Moondae's head.

The power imbalance between them was too vast.

"I don't need to do something like that to lift Gunwoo into stardom". Cheongryeo could do it alone. And who was Gunwoo, with no memories of the crimes a successful young idol did to him, to doubt someone like Cheongryeo?

Cheongryeo could have killed someone and they would have no memory of it, blindly following him who has reputation and standing that countless vie for. In fact, he had. Cheongryeo who had regressed countless of times must have learned and taken advantage of this many times.

This round was no exception.

Yet, he was helping Gunwoo discover what he had called the man's "suppressed desire". Hatred, dislike, or contempt was not evident in the way Cheongryeo addressed Gunwoo or his person.

Cheongryeo was sincerely trying to give Gunwoo what Gunwoo didn't realize he wanted, having had no opportunity to chase that dream. Didn't that mean, in some warped way, that they had the same wish?

For Gunwoo's happiness?

The System with five lit up stars hovered silently, like it was confirming what Gunwoo wished for. The same System that had tried to help him debut before.

A horrible revelation comes to Moondae.

Does Gunwoo-hyung... need me?

Moondae feels like he's treading a swamp with how heavy his feet feel with each step. The waiting room is suddenly worlds away from the set.

"Hyung...?" Raebin's voice pulls Moondae back into focus.

"Ah, Raebin," Moondae acknowledges his younger friend, but his hand quickly flies up to his mouth, shocked at how exhausted his voice sounded. He clears his throat, "S-Sorry."

Realizing something, Raebin's posture straightens and his eyes are wide open. "H-Hyung, you... did you meet...?"

"...I did," Moondae hangs his head low, "It was VTIC's Cheongryeo..."

The atmosphere becomes heavy and solemn.

"I... I don't know what he said to you," Raebin's expression crunches into something determined, "But don't let someone like him get to you!"

Before Moondae can respond, another participant joins them in the waiting room. Moondae doesn't look up to check who it is, but he can hear their footsteps faltering as they got closer to him and Raebin.

"...!" He hears Raebin's clothes rustle as the younger man greets the incoming participant.

Moondae, not wanting to be rude, joins Raebin and looks up.

"...Moondae, Raebin. You're finished, too?"

"Yes!" Raebin enthusiastically invites the participant over to join them. "You as well, Chungwoo-hyungnim?"

"I did," Chungwoo nods, sitting beside Raebin. The three of them sit in a row along the wall. "It was from Wonder Hall. A good agency, but I declined. Where did you two get your casting calls from?"

"Ah, both of us received offers from LeTi," Raebin glances at Moondae briefly before continuing, "Although, we both declined."

"I see," Chungwoo nods. "It's a smart, though hard, decision. They... are debuting a new singer, yes? Ryu Gunwoo. LeTi would want to focus on him before a new boy group. It's best to see this show to the end if we've made it this far."

"...What do you think of Ryu Gunwoo, Chungwoo-hyung?" Moondae lifts himself up from his slouched posture to ask properly.

"Well, I don't want to sound like I'm trying to force a connection, but we... I found out we are related," Chungwoo confesses, and Moondae slips to the edge of his seat. "When his first video was released, I asked my family, and they confirmed we had a relative named Ryu Gunwoo. Maybe that's why I thought he was... he was familiar."

Chungwoo's eyes meet Moondae's as he says, "You are also familiar to me, Moondae, but differently."

"Hyung!" Raebin stands up from his seat, "D-Do you remember?"

Chungwoo laughs at Raebin's explosive reaction, "I guess that confirms that I'm not going crazy. Yes, I do. I remember TeSTAR."

Five stars shine brilliantly on the system window, confirming Chungwoo's memory restoration.

"But, Raebin," Chungwoo asks, "How did you know? Who knows?"

"There's just Bae Sejin-hyung left," Moondae replies, relief flushing out the stiff nerves that nearly suffocated him. "Um... it's belated, but n-nice to meet you. I'm Park Moondae... um, the real one... but also not your real one..."

"I understand," Chungwoo's smile is gentle and calming, unlike Cheongryeo's oppressing grin. "The Moondae that Raebin and I know... he's Ryu Gunwoo, isn't he?"

"Wait," The gears in Raebin's head are visibly turning as shown by his expression slowly morphing into surprise. "I missed it earlier! Chungwoo-hyungnim, Ryu Gunwoo is your relative?"

"That's what my parents told me," Chungwoo looks disappointed as he explains, "I don't have any memory of him. Apparently, we and other family members had lost contact with him years ago. My parents only recognized him because I asked about him."

"Gunwoo-hyung is..." Raebin and Chungwoo both turned to Moondae, "He's been on his own for a while, and would have continued to be on his own if not for some circumstances that had him join the show. I can explain another time, it's a long story, but even after we met, he—"

He was always independent and lived well alone.

Gunwoo-hyung... doesn't need me.

Moondae trails off, wondering.

"Moondae."

Ah. Did he say that out loud?

Chungwoo turns his body so that he's fully facing Moondae, who's biting nails to keep any other unwanted thoughts from slipping out. Chungwoo slowly brings his hand to rest on Moondae's wrist, lowering it gently when Moondae stops fidgeting.

"I disagree," Comes his soft reassurance. Although delicate, his tone leaves no room for doubt. "I don't know yet the whole story of how this is happening, but whatever the case, this wouldn't be happening if there was no reason for it. Our memories of a life forgotten, those are needed. You are needed to make it happen."

"I-I agree!" Raebin nods enthusiastically. "Whatever supernatural being that has granted you the ability to help us regain our memory would not have blessed us if this was not required to fulfill your wish... your selfless wish!"

"But... then what? H-How do I know things will all be good and happy if I continue doing this? Isn't Gunwoo-hyung already beginning to live his dream?" A plethora of questions that Moondae had not addressed, or maybe was too afraid to address, comes spilling from his mouth.

The "so what?" was a territory that Moondae didn't want to uncover. What if there was nothing there and his efforts were for nothing? Selfishly, he would rather figure that out when the time comes, to at least feel like he had achieved something, than realize now before he completed the System's mission that he was useless.

"Sejin-hyung is still left, yes?" Chungwoo asks, and Moondae confirms with a short nod. "If just one thing, then I know Sejin-hyung would be good and happy to have his memories back like the rest of us."

The imitating of Moondae's words made Moondae chuckle a bit. He did agree that the final TeSTAR member would not want to be, and should not be, left in the dark. Even if it were all for naught, Moondae would work hard as a fan of TeSTAR to ensure all members recovered.

"And," Chungwoo continues, "If there was no reason for us to regain our memories, then why are we in the first place? They must be crucial to whatever is happening right now. I don't know the details so I can only speculate, but there must be something involved that we aren't aware of yet."

A large hand envelopes Moondae's, grounding him further.

"Let's not give up, okay, Moondae?"

Moondae thinks about Ahyeon, Keun Sejin, Raebin, Yujin... all the members who had regained their memory before now. He thinks of Ahyeon's confidence, Sejin's determination, Raebin's passion, and Yujin's ambition they had re-found in their memories as TeSTAR members. Characteristics of themselves that had been unlocked by TeSTAR's pillar holding them up high.

And now, there's Chungwoo's compassion, having ascended from the depths of doubt between his former career and current path.

If all the TeSTAR members were to regain their memory, what would the System ask Moondae to do next? Were there more criteria needed for Gunwoo's happiness?

This meant that simply debuting in a good company with attention and hype wasn't all that Gunwoo needed, right? It wasn't just the stage that Gunwoo quietly dreamed of.

TeSTAR must be involved somehow. That was what Moondae's heart told him, as both a friend from up close and Loviewer from far, things that Cheongryeo had never once been to Gunwoo.

He squeezes Chungwoo's hand tightly.

"Yes," Moondae breathes out, clearing his head. "I won't give up."

Chapter Text

Cheongryeo is met with a pair of eyes that are screaming at him. The man in front of him is silent, but waves of betrayal and disbelief roll off of him, unable to be missed.

Gunwoo isn't angry. Rather, the silent treatment he gives Cheongryeo is something that Cheongryeo has experienced many times. Yet, this time, it feels a bit more unforgiving. It's to be expected though, considering what Cheongryeo hid from Gunwoo, according to the latter.

"You deceived me," Gunwoo had said, disappointment heavy in his words. "You gave me a schedule that left out your visit to Idol Inc., didn't you?"

Cheongryeo did.

And while this push and pull game between the two men persisted, neither could shake the other off even if he wanted to.

Ryu Gunwoo's debut showcase was coming up and Cheongryeo had put himself in charge of managing Gunwoo's activities while VTIC rested following Bihan's controversy. Gunwoo was not one to mix up personal and work life responsibilities, and Cheongryeo knew this, taking advantage of such diligence to keep Gunwoo coming back to him, even if superficially.

So, he leaves Gunwoo to his sulking. It's a bit odd how passive Gunwoo seemed to be even in the face of this sort of deception. Cheongryeo suspected that it was likely because Gunwoo already knew that Cheongryeo had something to do with how his and VTIC's promotions were being handled and that there was some sort of master plan swirling in the leader's mind, unraveling with each passing day. Gunwoo just had no evidence and could not act.

Well, whether Gunwoo acted or not, it was wiser for the man to pick the former option, considering the career flip Cheongryeo had suddenly made him take.

He returns his mind to focus on the computer screen in front of him, a familiar song file opened with a completed instrumental and a demo vocal Cheongryeo recognized as an actor's voice who enjoyed singing on the side. It was the music file for Night Sign that Cheongryeo had requested from the producer months back. He was planning to reveal it in the next meeting regarding VTIC's future activities once Ryu Gunwoo's promotions began to slow down.

The track that was once one of VTIC's most successful now left a bittersweet taste in Cheongryeo's mouth. In every round, Night Sign had never failed to bring in new Tikas and dominated nearly every East Asian song chart. In every round, but the last.

TeSTAR and Park Moondae had interrupted that natural cycle. Cheongryeo had known that the moment he saw the man's witty personality and unassuming character that hid layers of some unknown experience beneath that he was playing a losing game.

In the end, what was meant to crush the new boy group and further push VTIC higher instead glorified that group through their win against VTIC. As a result, VTIC only experienced further decline, then hit a rock bottom after one of their first ever scandals.

It was resentful.

But that version of the song no longer existed, and will not exist this time around as the main vocalist has already taken his leave. Cheongryeo would not have to hear it again and relive those humiliating months. A version no round had ever heard before would be birthed in this one.

As the demo reached its end, Cheongryeo wrote praises and noted areas for suggestions and sent off the email to the producer.

Then, his phone buzzes with a calendar notification, reminding him of the upcoming events. The title is decorated with party popper emojis for effect, and possibly to get a reaction out of a certain someone if he were to see it.

🎉🎉🎉 Ryu Gunwoo debut showcase 🎉🎉🎉
In 3 days

It's beginning to taste sweet again.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

=======

no hate but does anyone else think ryu gunwoo feels like a plant lmao

🗨️ 1,979 ↺ 13.3k ♡ 11.2k

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┗ ohhh you're not alone sis it's just a lil too sus cuz like wdym he gets announced the moment b*han is dropped???

┗ cheongryeo himself was the one who played the song with his voice first, not the company

┗┗ who says he wasn't forced to lol

┗ yeah it feels weird. especially with idol inc's finale coming up soon. leti wants attention bad

"Hyung... he isn't a plant, is he?"

Chaeyul is scrolling his phone, lounging on a beanbag as Cheongryeo bids another person farewell on the phone and hangs up. He glances over to Chaeyul, who flips his screen to show the viral posts. Cheongryeo almost laughs at how ridiculous it all sounds, but a sweet smile hiding his thoughts spread on his face.

"I was the one who brought him in," Cheongryeo reminded his younger teammate. He didn't explain further—he didn't have to. Chaeyul nodded slowly but his furrowed brow revealed his frustration.

"I hope Gunwoo-hyung doesn't feel sad over the accusations."

This time, Cheongryeo really laughs. "Him? It's not like they're his fans. I think rather than feeling sad, hyung is probably thinking of ways to prove them wrong."

"I guess that does sound like him," Chaeyul hums. "Oh, by the way, who was that on the phone? You sounded like you were in a pretty important conversation."

"Some people from the design team," Cheongryeo replied without giving too much away. "VTIC has to make a comeback at some point."

"Oooh! Are you planning our next one already?"

"I'm very dedicated to this group, Chaeyul," Cheongryeo turns his eyes from the maknae to the floor. Then, his head rises again swiftly. "I'll let you and the others know when you're needed."

"Okay."

"Right now, the company should focus on our so-called industry plant. His debut showcase is soon, that's one thing those commenters have right," Cheongryeo places his fingers under his chin, deep in thought. In a lower voice, he mumbles, "And the survival show group debut. Hm... I wonder how that kid is doing."

"Kid?"

"No, forget I said anything," Cheongryeo lowers his hand. "Chaeyul, our next comeback might be a bit bumpy."

"Hyung of all people saying that, it must be true," Chaeyul sighed. "Okay! I'll be more ready than ever."

Cheongryeo praises his enthusiasm.

"I hope so."

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

Ryu Gunwoo is pacing in the dressing room, one just for him, courtesy of whatever power Cheongryeo used. He's dressed darkly yet extremely flashy at the same time. His glasses are adorned by silver chains looping his frames, with larger charms dangling on the sides to create a sharper look. Nothing on his body is anything he has ever worn, nor would wear in his daily life.

Suddenly, there's a knock on his door. Once he gives permission for the person on the other side to enter, his face turns sour, but immediately falls back to a neutral expression when a camera follows Cheongryeo inside.

"Gunwoo-hyung, congratulations on your debut," That fake smile that somehow still reaches even the corners of his eyes appears on Cheongryeo's face. "Well, I suppose it hasn't happened yet, but it will soon. How are you feeling?"

It's all a play for the film. Gunwoo tries his best to ignore the large black block resting on the staff's shoulder as he responds, "It's okay."

Cheongryeo gives a hearty laugh. "You don't change. I thought you would be at least a bit nervous."

"I am, but it's okay."

"You're full of charm when you say things like that," Cheongryeo pats him on the shoulder. A form of skinship to show how close the two are.

"...Thank you."

Cheongryeo smiles wider. "That's what I mean."

He turns to the camera and lifts his hand to address the people on the other side. "Did you have anything you wanted to tell the viewers before you head up on stage?"

Gunwoo turns to face the camera. It's large enough that he can see the individual circles turning and adjusting to focus on his face. It's like the room has suddenly shrunk to become only as big as the lens. He can't afford to focus anywhere else.

"I've seen the responses to Star on the LeTi channel and was surprised to receive the support I did. Thank you. I'll do my best on stage today so you won't be disappointed."

It's a very basic acknowledgement with a word humble surprise, gratitude, and a promise to meet expectations model of speech. A safe choice that always works.

"I can vouch for Gunwoo-hyung. He has one of the nicest voices I've ever heard," Cheongryeo follows up naturally. Years of life behind the lens has made him accustomed to spontaneous speeches and flattery. "I hope you will listen to him well."

Like it was some sort of cue, the camera was lowered, a soft "good work" coming out of the staff's mouth. Cheongryeo returned the gesture, then turned to Gunwoo once they were left alone.

"How did the rehearsal go? It's a shame I wasn't here to see it."

"It was fine," Gunwoo said, his gaze focused elsewhere other than Cheongryeo. That was the extent of his responses these days.

"That's good. I knew it would come naturally to you."

Cheongryeo moved his own gaze from Gunwoo to the screen Gunwoo was looking at. There was a popular girl group currently performing. There was also no doubt Gunwoo knew who they were, having likely taken photos of them before to sell.

Cheongryeo had noticed Gunwoo's discomfort when the large camera came in earlier. It wasn't so obvious that anyone could see it, but to Cheongryeo's trained eye, it was clear as day. He could bet that Gunwoo's palms had nail marks on them with how tightly he had been balling his fists. How ironic was it that the data seller was now the one the camera was pointing to.

Another knock came at the door. This time, a different staff member hurriedly asked for Gunwoo to step out and get ready for standby.

Cheongryeo and Gunwoo did not exchange any words before the latter left. No words were needed, but also, they were probably not welcomed. Cheongryeo watched the screen continuously as uninterested crowd members moved to make way for the next one that came specifically for Ryu Gunwoo.

As the lights dimmed and a new figure walked onto the stage, the quietness and still aura of the new LeTi face had people waiting with shallow breaths. It wasn't as if they could see what he looked like, and it wasn't as if he was exceptionally tall or had an eye-catching physique, but there was something there that kept curious eyes trained onto that silhouette.

The hand holding the microphone that rested on his side was then brought up to where that figure's lips should be, a signal for the start of a new era.

Lights rose in intensity until a soft hue glowed off the new face, silver frames sparkling like stars. It was very much in tune with the song he was singing. His dark suit, though void of colour enough to be used for hellish concepts with a low base and electric guitars, gave off a more ethereal feel. Paired with a voice the crowd had all heard before, but had not witnessed before, there was no need for eccentric stage setups or a group of backup dancers to fill the floor as that voice drew attention straight to the centre.

=======

- hey lol... isn't this kind of crazy...???

- what has leti been feeding him omg

- bro eats CDs to the point he's become the CD

- I'm literally speechless lololol

- WHERE DOES CHEONGRYEO FIND THESE PEOPLE WHAT

=======

[NEW!] New LeTi Singer RYU GUNWOO Shocks with Vocals on debut showcase

🗨️ 2,160

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┗ he sings better than most ppl do these days that's for sure

┗ is bro the backtrack???

┗ IS HE ACTUALLY GONNA JOIN VTIC BC HES A BETTER MAIN VOCAL THAN YOU-KNOW-WHO

┗ omg wait he's kinda fine too

=======

The lights dim. There's still a slight air of intensity lingering in the venue, but it's the kind that pumps adrenaline into veins, that keeps hearts beating, that encourages bodies to push beyond their limits in the face of novelty. It's felt by both the singer and the crowd before him.

Ryu Gunwoo gives a deep bow, one that has the crown of his head visible to those standing a whole meter below. Cheers and cries for an encore are ringing and bouncing off the walls. It was unfortunate that this was not a concert, but a showcase involving many more singers and idols to come. It seemed like the person on stage understood this, as he thanked the audience to acknowledge their requests he could not grant before humbly leaving the stage.

Cheongryeo is leaning on the wall just outside the stage entrance, clapping slowly with an unreadable smile on his face. He appears happy, maybe even ecstatic, but all who knew the leader of VTIC saw his face whenever they were reminded that looks could be deceiving.

"That went incredibly well," Cheongryeo praised, coming off the wall and walking closer to Gunwoo. "It was like a fish in water."

"..." Gunwoo did not respond, but, perhaps as a sign that Cheongryeo was beginning to get a better read of him, Cheongryeo could see a slight lift at the corner of Gunwoo's mouth as if to say, of course. And Cheongryeo would not admonish him for responding in such a way. He was aware of the strict schedule Gunwoo had to follow before this showcase that naturally led to this type of favourable outcome.

The staff handed Gunwoo a water bottle and took the microphone off his hands, promptly freeing him from the wiring that crawled from his back pocket to his ear. Once the microphone pack was taken off, Gunwoo let out an audible, relieved breath, as if the small block weighed more than just a few grams.

"People are saying good things about you," Cheongryeo flips his phone so the screen is facing Gunwoo. He looks interested, so Cheongryeo continues, "Tonight may be your final normal night."

"Don't be dramatic," Gunwoo scoffs, and those are the first words he says to Cheongryeo that are not out of necessity following the silence treatment he gave him since finding out about Cheongryeo's hidden schedule.

"No, really," Cheongryeo doesn't make jokes about celebrity-related things. "You might want to rethink your daily habits now that your face is known to the public in this way."

"And whose fault is that?" Gunwoo shook his head, "I'll deal with it when it comes. I know LeTi talents gain recognition fast, but exactly how much attention will be on me considering the event next week?"

He's referring to the livestream of Idol Inc.'s finale. The show had indeed garnered a significant amount of attention, similar to the past life. However, Cheongryeo still had his doubts. He also knew, arguably better than anyone, the powerful shoot to fame and how invasive strangers could become following it. One should never risk their safety for the guise of humbleness.

But he knows Gunwoo wouldn't listen to him. Not if he was the one who said it. So, Cheongryeo responds, "Alright, but I'll be available in case you need me."

Gunwoo doesn't verbally respond, but there are cues that he's heard and acknowledged Cheongryeo's words, such as the averting of his eyes and pursing of his lips expressing doubt that such a noble act would be needed.

For as clairvoyant as TeSTAR's Park Moondae seemed to be, he was not very aware of his own impact until either shown or told by someone or something else. It was not like this when he was Park Moondae. Cheongryeo believes the reason to be because he is not Park Moondae and that they are still rather connected that this is the case.

As the show came to a close with the week's number one announced and presented their award, the artists and staff prepared to leave the venue. With Cheongryeo in charge of Gunwoo's activities ("for whatever that kid has planned," Kim Taein had shook his head as he approved the action), while the other LeTi staffs assisting with Gunwoo's debut head home on their own, Cheongryeo gave Gunwoo a ride back himself.

"You live rather far from the company," Cheongryeo noted as they cruised through a larger road that separated this part of the city from the other. "It seems rather inconvenient for you to travel so far."

"A long commute isn't foreign to me," Gunwoo had traveled further for the sake of attending events for his past job. A regular office commute was truly nothing to him.

"You shouldn't keep using public transit from now on."

"..." Gunwoo didn't have anything to say in response to that, which meant he agreed, but didn't want to verbalize it. Having been so busy and kept on his toes following the beginning of his life alone, while he obtained his driver's license, it was mostly to secure a convenient means of personal identification and he did not own his own car.

After a while, he spoke, "Isn't that why LeTi should be assigning me a manager?"

"I'm here, aren't I?" Cheongryeo flashed him a charming smile. "And it's not uncommon for solo singers to live with their manager. What do you think of moving in with me? I do live alone. It won't be all of VTIC, so it's bearable."

Gunwoo gave him a look that expressed more distaste and rejection than Cheongryeo believed he could deliver with words. Cheongryeo laughed and dropped the subject until they pulled up to Gunwoo's apartment building.

"But do remember this offer in addition to my one made earlier," Cheongryeo urged, watching Gunwoo collect his things and leave the car.

"Sure," Gunwoo mumbles, absentminded. He thanks Cheongryeo for the ride briefly before hurrying inside. Cheongryeo can guess what the man is about to do and why he's in a hurry.

The last round of voting for Idol Inc. before the finale closed tonight. Having been busy with his own activities, Gunwoo likely had not had the time to support Park Moondae. Even if he didn't say it, it was clear that Gunwoo had been voting for him, using all the tricks and more only hardcore survival show fans knew to boost his friend's ranking.

Although, "friend" didn't feel like the right term to describe Gunwoo and Moondae's relationship. Saviour and victim? Idol and fan? Sometimes, it felt like there was some sort of power dynamic going on between them, but neither took advantage of it. Rather, they let the dynamic take advantage of them. It was as if they couldn't live without each other, and not just physically, but there was a need to know about the other's condition and a fierce anxiety that arose when they could not confirm their state. It was rather odd, considering it didn't seem like they contacted each other much initially nor in the past life, as far as Cheongryeo was aware.

Such dynamics were possible among close friends and family, so Cheongryeo supposed it was fine. Neither of the two had any immediate family to fall back on, so it seemed like they projected that role onto each other. Contrary to his actions, Cheongryeo didn't mind that they had this type of relationship. However, he hoped that they would think with their head rather than their hearts in the event that they're forced to make a choice between their new public images and their private lives.

Cheongryeo despised those types of people the most—those who couldn't draw the line between the two. Such nuisances were the reason why he had to restart so many times. There was no advancement without sacrifice. Too many lighthearted children who strove to be idols failed to recognize this and never reached their highest potential.

Just as Cheongryeo was about to shift his focus back onto the road as he merged onto the large road, his car's screen displayed an incoming call. While he has expected this, he didn't expect it so soon, much less the night of.

"Hello, Gunwoo-hyung?"

"I'll take you up on your offer right now," Gunwoo said quickly in a hushed voice. His tone was angry, yet a bit shaken. "I don't care where you are, come pick me up."

"Of course," It would take a bit since he had just entered the large road and would have to find an exit to turn back, but Cheongryeo didn't mention this. "What's going on?"

"I'll tell you later. Hurry it up."

There was a rustle of something then the phone hung up. Cheongryeo sighed. Was Gunwoo aware of how easily he worried people? Cheongryeo pressed his foot further on the gas pedal, hurrying it up.

It took about ten minutes for him to reach Gunwoo's neighbourhood again. As soon as he pulled up to the building, Gunwoo pulled on the car's door and entered hastily, fastening his seatbelt.

"Let's go."

"You need to tell me where to, first," Cheongryeo said, but he drove away from the building regardless. He knew better than to continuously test an anxious man.

"Some hotel or wherever. I just need a place to stay tonight."

This made Cheongryeo freeze for a second, before he relaxed and calmly asked, "What happened?"

"..." Gunwoo appeared frustrated and a bit embarrassed, but he responded obediently. "I had a few connections during my time as a data seller. These people are either customers or others in the business. Some of them recognized me on TV and are contacting me. I don't want to risk any of them appearing at my front door."

Ah, that was a problem Cheongryeo had thought about, yes. While Cheongryeo knew Gunwoo was definitely smart enough to not use his real name or show his real face while dealing, it wasn't as if those were the only factors in a digital footprint that could be used to track someone. He wouldn't be surprised if those people trying to connect with him were wondering why he wasn't at the new LeTi singer's debut showcase and had an oddly long rest, then put two and two together and were testing out their theory. While it might be a stretch that someone would find his address so quickly, neither Cheongryeo nor Gunwoo were the type to risk such a possibility.

"I see," Cheongryeo's tone revealed no opinion, but it was just a simple acknowledgement of the situation. "That's a bit troublesome."

"Sometimes, I don't like how you choose your words," Gunwoo turned his head and rested his chin on his hand, glaring out the window. Obviously, this was more than "a bit troublesome" for him.

Through the reflection of the glass, Cheongryeo saw Gunwoo's expression eventually mold into something softer, more pliant, as the man fell deeper into thought. He was probably thinking something about Park Moondae. Perhaps this event reminded him of the break in of Park Moondae's apartment a while back.

They stayed silent until they arrived at Cheongryeo's place, located within a gated community for extra security. While Cheongryeo had offered Gunwoo the bath and other things he thought the man could use after a long day, the first thing Gunwoo did was peer into Cheongryeo's fridge and asked if he liked kimchi fried rice.

"I'd like to meet the person who doesn't like such a staple dish," Cheongryeo had replied. Immediately, Gunwoo washed his hands and went to work in the kitchen, Cheongryeo sitting idly by and occasionally speaking only when prompted by Gunwoo when the man asked where certain tools and ingredients were.

A sweet and spicy smell soon filled the large room. Gunwoo served the kimchi fried rice on a large dish in the centre with a few side dishes Cheongryeo had sitting in his fridge. Two bowls and two pairs of chopsticks were placed on either side, implying a joint mealtime.

Cheongryeo had heard TeSTAR's Park Moondae was a good cook, but this was the first time he witnessed it himself. While things tended to get exaggerated online, perhaps this skill was one of the rare facts that weren't. One couldn't underestimate the cooking of those who were forced to learn, as sad as that may be.

"Thank you for the meal," Cheongryeo dipped his head lightly as Gunwoo fills his bowl.

"Eat all of it," Gunwoo responds simply and places Cheongryeo's bowl in front of him, but his underlying message was heard. I appreciate your help, here is my thanks.

"How generous," The older one here was Gunwoo, yet the bowl that was filled first was Cheongryeo's. Somehow, the gap between them instantly felt smaller through this one gesture.

"How long do I have to keep promoting for?" Gunwoo asks as they go through their meal.

"Just one week. This is more like a preliminary round so you know what to expect for future schedules," Cheongryeo replies, reaching for another helping of pickled radish.

"A week," Gunwoo mumbles. There was something else in a week, a fact which went unsaid between either of them, afraid to break the current peaceful atmosphere.

"It'll be almost the same throughout the week, just at different venues which have their own rules," Cheongryeo explains, "Different programs also have different preferences, so it's good to get exposed to as many of them as possible while you're learning. I'm also around if you need some more assistance."

"I see," Gunwoo's eyes trail to the calendar Cheongryeo has hanging on his fridge. It's filled with both his own and Gunwoo's schedules. "But what about VTIC?"

"We're getting ready for our comeback," Cheongryeo moved his own gaze towards the calendar as well. "It'll come after your promotions, but not too soon after."

"...I've heard a few things around the company," Gunwoo's eyes lock in on Cheongryeo's own now. "Are they true?"

"You're going to have to be more specific," Cheongryeo smiles. He knows what Gunwoo wants to ask.

"What's happening to me after this debut?"

It was a loaded question, implying Gunwoo's ears around the company and eyes on the Internet, aware of the rumours and suspicions regarding his solo debut, the ex-VTIC member, and the anticipated cancelled comeback. Of course, LeTi, and more specifically Cheongryeo, did not move forward without a plan. What was to be of Gunwoo had been included in the plan Cheongryeo had presented to Kim Taein before the CEO had given the VTIC leader free reign to do as he pleased for this matter. Now that Gunwoo was actively questioning him, Cheongryeo wondered if he should admit his plans now, or wait a bit longer.

"VTIC will have its comeback," is how Cheongryeo chooses to reply. "And you'll receive an actual manager."

"Alright."

Following the meal, Cheongryeo showed Gunwoo the extra room he saved for guests, telling him he could unwind and retire for the night there. Taking the offer, Gunwoo gently closed the door.

Stomach full and satisfied, Cheongryeo took his own bag and returned to his room, pulling out his laptop and connecting it to his monitor and began his own work again. It seemed to be a shared trait among geniuses that they always had bouts of motivation and inspiration late at night. Cheongryeo was no exception.

In the back of his mind, though, a small, yet evil voice buzzed in his ear like an annoying fly. It wondered how much of a "genius" Cheongryeo of VTIC was, if he was only redoing his previous actions over and over. A true genius wouldn't need so many lives, no?

He shakes the thought away. The night was too young to think about something like this.

Through his headphones, a series of melodies Cheongryeo could no longer forget even if he wanted to flows through.

— ｡𝕧 ༉‧₊ —

When Cheongryeo returns back to his home one night, he hears a faint voice enthusiastically announcing something from inside the unit as he works his key to unlock the door. On the sofa, Gunwoo is fixated on the television screen, a dark look on his face.

The person on the TV is holding a microphone with the Idol Inc. logo on it. Upon seeing it, Cheongryeo recalls that tonight is the debut night for the top rankers of the survival show.

In other words, it was soon time for Cheongryeo to meet Park Moondae on the road.

"Nervous?" Cheongryeo asks, dropping his bag and smoothly taking a seat next to Gunwoo, who, upon closer look, appears less nervous and more shocked, angry, and speechless, considering he didn't spare Cheongryeo any attention.

"What's wrong?" Cheongryeo asks, looking towards the screen. A barrage of comments flood the screen, overlapping each other to the point that it's hard to discern what each individual message is saying. To his side, Gunwoo is gripping his phone tightly.

"Hey, is something the matter?" Cheongryeo tries again, and this time, Gunwoo responds, but very quietly.

On the screen, the camera jumps from a shot of all the final trainees waiting for their ranks to Park Moondae, who is visibly and understandably nervous. However, the moment his face appeared, it disappeared again behind a sudden wave of new comments.

"Someone," Gunwoo grits out, "Doxxed him."

"What?"

Even though the sun had long set below the horizon and the night was far from young, everything suddenly appeared several shades darker. Suddenly, Cheongryeo could no longer see clearly. The power of foresight began to leave him.

A new variable has come into play this round. Even a man who has lived this life over a hundred times is just a decoration in a world of infinite possibilities and a single scale on the butterfly's wing. A bitter flavour crawls up Cheongryeo's insides, sticky in his throat.

Amid this darkness, Gunwoo's phone screen could blind even a ghost. It reads:

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[HOT] [TRENDING] Idol Inc. #1 trainee Park Moondae is a Suicide Survivor? Mysterious Prodigy Citizen Trainee's Past Revealed [NEW!]

🗨️ 9,385

=======

Even Cheongryeo doesn't want to scroll down.

The article, posted just twenty minutes ago and already number one on the trending list, milks off of a single photo posted before any other text can be seen. It's a picture of a crumpled letter, written sloppily and haphazardly, detailing a life Cheongryeo thought he already knew about, but clearly did not. Desperate words trailed after each other to narrate a life of loneliness, isolation, and a waning will to continue pushing further.

The last line delivers a blunt statement that implies the end of the letter would lead to the end of the writer. Of course, the letter ended.

But what about the writer who stood waiting for his ranking?

Of course, Cheongryeo knew about Park Moondae's past. Everyone in the last round did as well, considering how it was originally leaked after the break-in. Since Moondae had also joined this round, Cheongryeo was not surprised that such an event did not occur again, but it seemed that Moondae had erred somewhere along the way.

Cheongryeo could hardly believe that someone with so much tenacity could conjure such a void, yet intense letter.

With the situation's context in the form of a damning article in his hand, Cheongryeo turned back to the screen, and suddenly the words passing by began to form coherent sentences.

- what's with that article????

- MOONDAE IS AN ORPHAN 

- moondae was depressed?

- how do u go from almost killing urself to debuting in one of the most anticipated kpop groups

- are they really gonna keep the show going after this??

- it was actually published mid-stream that's crazy

What makes even Cheongryeo's chest churn is that, no matter how much white text hides the screen, the trainees shown on it has no idea of what is happening despite viewers being shoved away from what should be a celebratory reality and blocked by a thick wall of text.

Meanwhile, the third place trainee, Seon Ahyeon, is currently giving his heartfelt thanks.

Logically, Cheongryeo knows that voting is over and that there is no longer any outside force that can change the final lineup of a group that will be formed in less than ten minutes from now. Cheongryeo knows that Gunwoo is aware of that too.

However, the expectation for the group will shift, with attention both good and bad pouncing onto one member to shoulder the weight and somehow lift the entire group back up again. Even once that weight is lifted, the shadow of the debut will follow the group for the rest of its career.

On the screen, fans are cheering loud and eliminated members of the show are tearing up at the first place trainee's speech. Screams burst even louder when the final member, Lee Sejin A, is invited to join the six top trainees. He looks like he's in disbelief, staggering slightly, his red-rimmed eyes growing wide at Park Moondae's extended hand. He says something that isn't caught on the microphone, leaving fans wondering what words were shared between the two last members. Finally, the new group collectively hugs and lifts the specially designed Idol Inc. trophy. 

It's lively and bright on stage, decorated with white lights and lifted by fans' cries. The sound of the chants from the TV is the only sound that can be heard in the dim apartment.

Gunwoo's thoughts might as well be written on his face. One glance, and Cheongryeo knows Gunwoo wishes he could just stop all time right here and now so that Moondae would not have to return, expecting congratulations for his debut, to unsolicited opinions about his past choices.

Against all wishes, the night turns into day. Ryu Gunwoo's solo activities end just as the press conference for the new group arrives.

Gunwoo near jumps into Cheongryeo's car, hastily closing the door with a more serious face than usual. Compared to how grave his expression looked before, his actions were almost comical.

"I can't believe I'm going to thank you now for making me debut," Are Gunwoo's first words. While Cheongryeo was expecting this outcome eventually, to hear them so suddenly without any warning even caught him off guard.

"I won't deny that I always knew becoming a singer would be beneficial and enjoyable for you," Cheongryeo responds, his brain trying to keep up with the situation. "But what brought this up?" You were so gloomy just days ago.

"Moondae explained the situation with the letter at the press conference today," Gunwoo explains, his eyes focused on his phone where an article summarizing the conference is opened. His eyes are soft and shining, like a proud parent's. "He was very brave about it. Also, since I have debuted, he was able to talk about me freely and decided to share about our relationship. This will only mean that people will want us to interact. I'm free to see him when I want."

Waves of uncharacteristic childish giddiness rolls off of Gunwoo. Cheongryeo stops himself from raising a brow at the oddity. "Congratulations," He says flatly, trying to control his expression.

No, Cheongryeo was not opposed to Gunwoo and Moondae interacting. It would be weirder for the two now-established singers with a past together to not be seen interacting. In fact, Cheongryeo encouraged it. Moondae was smart to use Gunwoo to address the debut night's frenzy so quickly, though it must have been stressful for the boy.

"Do they have a confirmed debut date yet?"

"In June, it seems."

"Then, you can look forward to June, Gunwoo-hyung."

Gunwoo gives Cheongryeo a puzzled look.

"VTIC is making its comeback in June, but as you know, we've lost our main vocalist," Cheongryeo says casually, starting the car and pulling out of the parking lot. "But just as luck would have it, LeTi revealed a new singer."

"..."

"Gunwoo-hyung, would you care to join VTIC's newest comeback?"

Although the actual question only came up now, both men knew the answer was already set in stone. Whether it was because he was pressured and forced, or knew he would have a stable career going forward, or even if he personally wanted to, Gunwoo's answer was—

"—Fine."

Cheongryeo smiled. 

"Perfect."

It really was. There was only one more person's vocals missing from the new songs in the album before dance practice could commence.

"But isn't it a nice coincidence how Moondae's group is potentially debuting so close to VTIC's comeback?" Cheongryeo notes coolly, "In a few weeks, you might be able to see him in the halls of the venues."

That seems to send Gunwoo into his imagination's land as he stares out the window and goes silent. A faint smile appears on his lips. Whatever scenarios he's thinking of, it's clearly one he wishes to happen and that could happen thanks to the current circumstance, and brings him joy.

Cheongryeo glances at Gunwoo blankly. Having lived through countless of scenarios to date, he had long lost that type of imagination. When events unfold in ways one doesn't expect for a millennia, a significant loss in confidence in the power of imagination confined by only past experiences tends to be a common result.

Even though all that had led up to this point had been Cheongryeo's plan since the beginning, he could no longer anticipate what could happen next. He's reached the expiry point of his previous knowledge and is bracing himself for a new tale.

What happens next is a new story. He hopes it's his last, even though he's long since learned that he can't live a life like it's his last anymore. A perfectionist to his core, the only thing his past lives have taught him is how to judge when it's time to restart.

For now, Cheongryeo decides to focus on what's to come, rather than how it will end. If such a time comes, he will know.

What feels like an uncomfortable stone sits heavy in his stomach. Gunwoo's smile doesn't and can't leave from Cheongryeo's peripheral vision. For some reason, for the first time since he can recall, the thought of restarting isn't so pleasant.

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VTIC Confirmed to Come Back, but with a Twist - Cheongryeo: "I hope Tika will welcome the new change." [NEW!]

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