Chapter 165: Joy (2) |
Chronos was rarely seen on variety shows, leaving the Rings clamoring for more of their presence. Despite the high demand, their appearances were so limited that it was almost heartbreaking. With the flood of year-end performances, the Rings dove into a frenzy, sharing a barrage of content in what could be described as a storm of uploads. Here was just a taste of their fervor.
Wabeat @wabeat · 3 days ago
(KEW Awards VTR clip of the youngest member Suh Hyun-Woo getting showered with affection by seniors.gif)
Little Suh Hyun-Woo... Our darling Hyun-Woo receiving all the love awww
Replies 0 RT 4 Likes 16
Chronos Gossip @sadam · 2 days ago
What really hits home is how the playful and seemingly mature Suh Hyun-Woo turns into this adorable little creature when he's around his seniors. Just melts my heart.
Replies 2 RT 2 Likes 24
Hyun-Woo’s Mom @hwmo · 21 hours ago
Social butterfly Hyun-Woo at his cutest
Replies 1 RT 21 Likes 78
Jusputin @puiriw · 2 days ago
Even when Jin-Sung isn't the center in the second part, he commands the stage like one lmao. Every time I watch him dance, I'm in awe. Is he some kind of contortionist...? Absolutely incredible...
Replies 0 RT 5 Likes 27
Worship Chronos Stylist @nnn11 · 1 day ago
What's with Yoon-Chan's outfit...? Wait, what's with Joo-Han's outfit...? Ah, no, Yoo-Joon's outfit… Ha, Suh Hyun-Woo's outfit… Jin-Sung-aaaaah!!!!!!!! Massive thanks to the stylists ahhh I can die now
Replies 0 RT 2 Likes 40
Looking for Nickname @wlswkfh · 2 days ago
(Suh Hyun-Woo walking under the spotlight, looking up at Goh Yoo-Joon on the ship, and the moment he looks away, Goh Yoo-Joon vanishes.gif)
I was just freaking out watching this live, but now that I am thinking about it, it feels like a teaser for the next album. Seems like the next album will tie into “Parade,” it's so laden with meaning I want to delve deeper, but I'm at a dead end^^ YMM, give us more hints…
Replies 4 RT 126 Likes 520
Ugh @1234_0817 · 1 day ago
(Suh Hyun-Woo sitting cross-legged on a luxurious chair, looking down at the audience.gif)
I yearn to bow down before Emperor Suh Hyun-Woo. Please, Your Majesty, just scold me once...
Replies 0 RT 11 Likes 66
I Cry When I See Duo @hs2u · 5 minutes ago
(Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo in casual clothes, having a phone call with Elisia in the dorm.gif)
Damn, I knew sticking through this life would pay off someday with a blessing from Chronos. Love you guys, let's forever be together. I silently send a kiss to my monitor.
Replies 0 RT 20 Likes 89
Lilu @lillu · 2 days ago
(“Christmas is Ours” with Yoo-Joon, Suh Hyun-Woo.avi)
What in the world LOL
Replies 0 RT 332 Likes 1027
Second Cha Cha @chacha2 · 1 minute ago
(“Christmas is Ours” stage, innocent Suh Hyun-Woo with Goh Yoo-Joon's arm around him.gif)
No matter how many times I watch it, the same-age duo really stole the show AHAHAHA They are absolutely slaying!!!
Replies 0 RT 0 Likes 2
Red Ribbon @redribon · 30 minutes ago
(“Christmas is Ours,” Suh Hyun-Woo reaching for the hand Goh Yoo-Joon extended.gif)
Lol This must have set the Alphas fans on fire
Replies 0 RT 0 Likes 122
Ring Fanatic @2222gori · 1 day ago
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG! Is it true Jin-Sung choreographed the entire “Parade” routine??!!?!?!? Everything was changed from start to finish?? With hardly any time, isn't our boy a freaking genius aaaah! Shouldn't he be taking some genius test or something?
Replies 0 RT 1.3K Likes 1.5K
Yoon-Chan's Fangirl @qorhvk · 2 days ago
The rollercoaster of emotions watching my bias:
Whaaat Whaaat Whaaat :0 Suh Hyun-Woo's dance part, Suh Hyun-Woo sitting on the chair so they all did it together 😢 > Yoon-Chan's the center??? > OMG!!! I'm dead!!! > Why is Yoon-Chan's dance skill skyrocketing wow! And why does he sing so well!
└Yoon-Chan's Fanboy @qorhvk · 2 days ago
Reply to @qorhvk
Conclusion: Holding out for an album where Park Yoon-Chan shines as the main
Replies 2 RT 125 Likes 203
Hoping for Parade Schedule Extension @dkdkdksj · 2 days ago
(Yoo-Joon performing “Parade” choreography without a shirt under his vest.gif)
Who dressed Yoo-Joon in just a suit vest without a shirt… Stylist god… Amazed once again by your impeccable sense… His exposed arms and occasional glimpses of his abs had me rolling around multiple times...
└ Hoping for Parade Schedule Extension @dkdkdksj · 2 days ago
Reply to @dkdkdksj
Sister post: Suh Hyun-Woo's chest peeking through his jacket without a shirt
Replies 2 RT 228 Likes 485
Miel @miel · 1 day ago
(Kang Joo-Han recommending “Christmas is Ours” with a content smile.jpg)
LOL I just love it when our leader makes that face HAHAHA! Can't wait for what's next
Replies 0 RT 145 Likes 800
Piggy @tlrksdl · 2 days ago
Lmao My firsthand experience at the YMM Awards: It was freaking awesome, to the point of swearing. There was this hilarious moment lol… Hyun-Woo appeared standing up (seemed like his back got better?), and someone among the Rings screamed ‘Suh Hyun-Woo is standing! He is fucking standing there!!!’ I was dying from laughing LOL
└ Replying to @tlrksdl
Lmao Suh Hyun-Woo's standing tall and proud hahahaha OMG, I laughed so hard! If the person who screamed sees this post, I really want to become friends with her! Please reach out to me!
Replies 1 RT 222 Likes 308
Unicorn @dkdkddi · 4 hours ago
Damn YMM, how dare you showcase Suh Hyun-Woo and Yoo-Joon's high notes in someone else's cover song...
Replies 8 RT 128 Likes 485
Suh Hyun-Woo Lover @fjqj_856 · 8 minutes ago
I had no idea Suh Hyun-Woo could sing this well... There's a reason he's the main vocalist. Please give our boy a solo song filled with high notes someday.
Replies 2 RT 0 Likes 30
Shocked @kipsp · 12 hours ago
No kidding, the moment Suh Hyun-Woo hit those high notes, the entire audience went dead silent in shock. I heard another fan go. ‘Wow, he really can sing.’
Replies 1 RT 80 Likes 296
Hangry @wjdakf1128 · 2 hours ago
Can we get a song like Red Sun too? I mean, I love our current songs, but this one is just legendary. How did they make a cover song this iconic? The outfits, makeup, hair, and concept were all insane...
Replies 0 RT 0 Likes 26
Going Crazy @smwdma · 2 minutes ago
(Jin-Sung untying the red wristband from his own wrist and tying it on Suh Hyun-Woo's wrist.gif)
Just wait till Jin-Sung becomes an adult, Jin-Sung x Suh Hyun-Woo... I'm about to unleash my repressed soul...
Replies 0 RT 0 Likes 136
Fan Welcome (Ring) @fiiidoll · 2 hours ago
(“Parade” stage with cherry blossoms fluttering in a dreamy ending edited.gif)
Let's not forget “Parade” amidst the Red Sun hype. It was like a dream, and I felt like I was actually inside the “Parade” universe! Love you guys so much!!!
Replies 0 RT 3 Likes 50
No Lightstick @ggggooori · 1 day ago
Spoilers for the next album after the year-end stage:
(KEW Awards ending part with Suh Hyun-Woo and Goh Yoo-Joon.gif)
KEW Awards ending. If they continue the “Parade” universe in the next album, there's a high chance Suh Hyun-Woo and Yoo-Joon's relationship will be revealed.
└ Replying to @ggggooori
("Welcome to the school" text capture.jpg)
("Warning" text capture.jpg)
("Ignore Him" text capture.jpg)
("Don't fall for him" text capture.jpg)
Feels a bit like a Neapolitan horror story[1]. Next album concept is maybe horror? (Choosing Red Sun as a cover stage song also leads me to think this)
Anyway, the focus is on who 'He' is and 'Enrollment.' 'He' will likely be revealed in the next album, and I think the next concept might be school horror (just speculating, no criticism please).
Replies 0 RT 1K Likes 1.3K
Lulu @lolllo · Just now
(Chronos cuddled up together photo.jpg)
#Chronos_Friend_Search #Ring_Friend_Search
Knocked out by the one-two-three punch of the year-end stage, I've become a fallen Ring! My ultimate bias is Suh Hyun-Woo, but honestly, I adore all the members so much that terms like 'ultimate' and 'second' don't even matter! I'm super active in streaming and voting! I gush a lot!
Age doesn't matter/Follow me, follow you
Replies 0 RT 0 Likes 6
In the midst of the chaos among the Rings, Allure threw another bone their way.
The video of “Just call me hyung" emerged. They all doted on Suh Hyun-Woo, and his face flushed with embarrassment after he called Da-Win “hyung” and scurried away. He was too cute for words.
The Rings, who hadn't seen much of Suh Hyun-Woo's adorableness within Chronos lately, were bursting with glee at the frequent displays. And just before they could digest this, Kang Joo-Han dropped another video about the other members congratulating Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo for being adults. The Rings' feeds on BlueBird were in utter disarray.
Beb Rap @beb · 2 minutes ago
I've been feeling this for a while, but it seems like Da-Win really cherishes our Hyun-Woo. He often mentions that he's a cute younger friend even in normal conversations, and in videos, he looks at him very warmly. I felt like my heart was going along with it.
└ Replying to @Leaman
Yes, I feel the same. I heard that from the time Hyun-Woo first joined, he was almost raised to be the trainee leader, just like Joo-Han raised Jin-Sung.
Replies 0 RT 0 Likes 1
Yoon-Chan Rabbit @uchan2 · 10 minutes ago
(Goh Yoo-Joon doing a forward roll and Suh Hyun-Woo feeling embarrassed.avi)
Someone, please hit me hard in the face... I need to check if I'm currently diving into the next album hint mill...
Yoon-Chan Rabbit @uchan2 · 10 minutes ago
└ Replying to @uchan2
Just passing by... Chronos is an idol that does not often appear on variety shows…
Replies 0 RT 0 Likes 0
Love the Chaos @crono888 · 1 hour ago
Lololololol I knew the kids have been too quiet recently. Is this what you guys do in the dorm? hahaha, What is that thing on your head?
Replies 0 RT 0 Likes 0
Leighton @leitn · 1 hour ago
This is absolutely chaotic lol
Killing points:
1. Yoo-Joon joyfully doing a forward roll
2. Hyun-Woo genuinely feeling embarrassed
3. Joo-Han seems to be enjoying himself in the video despite the embarrassing caption
4. Not visible but Yoon-Chan and Jin-Sung are snickering at their hyungs
Replies 0 RT 3 Likes 24
Eun-Seol @toomoon · 8 minutes ago
(Cha Cha Chronos.jpg)
(Red Sun Chronos.jpg)
(Chaotic Adult Celebration Performance.jpg)
Yes, they are the same people.
Replies 0 RT 12 Likes 66
While the Rings were having a lively party, Chronos's agency, YMM Entertainment, took the opportunity to start preparing for the first recruitment of official Rings.
***
Cherry blossoms flutter in the wind, and within them, you and I are laughing
I capture your smile in a photograph
You shyly lower your head
A heart filled with swelling excitement
It's a blessing that we are here together today♪
“Alright, Hyun-Woo, let's give it another shot but with a bit more zest and oomph this time."
“Okay." I reached for the water bottle resting beside me and took a quick sip before loosening up my throat once more. Now, I was ready to inject some extra vitality into our performance.
Joo-Han's request was simple enough, yet the serene ambiance of our calm studio made it somewhat challenging for me to bring out the high-spirited energy for the song. We were nestled in the recording studio inside the YMM Entertainment building, diligently laying down tracks for our new song under the watchful eyes of Joo-Han and Producer Do.
After a hectic schedule of year-end performances and photoshoots, the brief break had done wonders for our well-being, fully recharging our batteries. However, the atmosphere in the studio today was markedly different from our typically lively sessions, with everyone exchanging sheepish glances and staring at the floor.
“Kkkk…” Jin-Sung let out a suppressed giggle, prompting Joo-Han to whirl around and shake his head. “Come on, liven up a bit! You guys know how to have a good time. Let that laughter out, Jin-Sung."
“Mhm."
The line was meant to be a highlight of the performance, a moment that stood out on stage. However, apart from Goh Yoo-Joon and me, everyone seemed uncomfortable with this style of expression. It felt reminiscent of an untrained actor being pushed into performing at a family gathering in front of relatives—the embarrassment was real.
While Joo-Han took it upon himself to give Jin-Sung and Yoon-Chan a crash course in delivering lines, I wrapped up with Producer Do and stepped out of the booth.
Once we had finished everything but the dialogue parts, our manager, who had been keeping an eye on the time, stood up to signal a break. “Producer Do, could we have a moment?"
“Of course, go ahead."
At his cue, we all went out of the studio. Today wasn't just about comeback preparations. We were also here to discuss the upcoming initiation ceremony for the first Rings fandom launch. The small conference room was already filled with the A&R team, Supervisor Kim, and the deputy from the planning team who would be overseeing the event.
“Hey there, how is everything going in the studio?"
“Ah, everything is proceeding smoothly, Supervisor."
Supervisor Kim seemed pleased with Joo-Han's update, nodding approvingly before diving straight into his agenda. “Have you got the schedule for the music video from Su-Hwan? We are on a tight timeline, so make sure the choreography is perfect before we start shooting."
“Yes, we are on it!"
“And when are Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo scheduled to start their shoot, Su-Hwan?"
“A week from now."
“Do a thorough job with the preparations. And remember, this comeback is not just about the music. It’s also a golden opportunity for both of you to boost your personal profiles. Opportunities like these, especially a fixed slot on a public broadcast, are rare for idols these days."
“Yes, we will give it our all."
“By the way, I was chatting with the director over drinks, and he mentioned that he was looking for someone to play a teacher role. I suggested our Kun-Ho. You will be working together, so keep that in mind."
“... Senior Kun-Ho?”
“That's right."
Supervisor Kim nonchalantly brought up Kun-Ho, the former idol sensation who had quietly transferred to our agency after opting not to renew his group's contract. Despite his low profile, rumors had it that he was making a decent living from song royalties, occasional solo releases, and a successful vocal training academy. However, he barely visited the company, so our paths had never crossed.
The mere thought of meeting him was exhilarating. His music had been a source of comfort during my trainee days, and his influence had even shaped my vocal technique. He was someone I idolized from afar, and I never imagined our paths would cross outside of my daydreams.
“Let's take a look at the schedule, Su-Hwan."
“Right, Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo are up for the Graduating shoot. And after we circulated the Chronos profile following the SES year-end stage, we received an invite for Joo-Han to appear on Catch the Thief, Boom-ba!"
“Me?"
“That sounds perfect. Catch the Thief, Boom-ba! is right up Joo-Han's personality, isn't it?" The show was a mix of strategy and wit, involving card games and catching thieves—a format that surprisingly fitted Joo-Han more than Jin-Sung, who was our go-to guy for variety shows.
“With the shooting scheduled just before our comeback, it looks like we will be able to maximize our song's exposure.”
“Sounds like a plan. Su-Hwan, did you also send out their profile? You are so good at your job. Keep it up, and please take good care of the kids!”
“Yes, of course.”
“And Yin-Hee.”
Supervisor Kim's gaze subtly shifted, settling on Deputy Yin-Hee from the planning team who was seated directly across from the manager. “Go ahead."
“Let's talk about the fan club."
“Right. The fan club's inauguration ceremony is scheduled for February. We are currently finalizing the venue and other logistics to align with that date. But first on our agenda should be the production of the official light sticks."
“Wow, finally!” Jin-Sung couldn't contain his excitement. “To be honest, it's about time we got this underway. Seeing our fans with makeshift light sticks during the year-end performances was disheartening."
“True.” Goh Yoo-Joon nodded, echoing the sentiment.
I found myself in agreement as well. It was a bit of a sore spot, seeing other groups' fans waving their official light sticks while ours were left to improvise. Moreover, the snide comments on social media about our lack of official merchandise were hard to ignore, making us feel a pang of guilt.
“Yes, that's why we are pushing to get the designs finalized as soon as possible. I've prepared a few preliminary drafts for the light sticks," Deputy Yin-Hee explained, spreading out various designs on the table. They were clearly still in their early stages, simple and unpolished.
“We are starting with these base designs, but we are eager to incorporate your input as well. Fans really appreciate it when the idols are directly involved in the creative process. If you could share your thoughts in the next couple of days, that would be fantastic."
“Absolutely!"
“We've also conducted a survey to gauge what the fans are most eager to see from you all."
Deputy Yin-Hee handed over a file with survey results to Joo-Han. “We've compiled all the feedback. If you select a few feasible activities for the inauguration ceremony from this list, we can craft a setlist based on your choices."
Joo-Han unfolded the file for all of us to see. From the revival of "Red Cape Cha Cha" to "Rasputin", and suggestions for unit performances, cover songs, solo pieces, part-switching, double-speed dances, random play dances, to cosplay… It covered a broad spectrum.
“There's quite a variety here," Deputy Yin-Hee noted as we browsed through the options. “Given that your fans are well aware of your talent, we'd prefer you to pick activities that lean more towards fan engagement rather than skill display."
“Understood."
“We've also shared a similar list with the stylists, so they know what the fans are keen to see on you." With Deputy Yin-Hee's briefing concluded, Supervisor Kim nodded. We could see a mix of relief and concern in his gesture as he closed his notebook.
“I know you handled the Allure event without a hitch, but the tight timeline does add a layer of pressure. Please make sure everything goes on without an issue."
“Don't worry, we've got this under control."
“Shall we conclude the meeting here? Thank you all for your hard work. You can head back to the recording studio now."
With the meeting’s end, Joo-Han stood, his arms laden with files and documents that demanded our attention.
***
The concept photo shoots and recording sessions were now well behind us. It was only after all of this that the manager returned the alcohol bottles he had confiscated from us.
Thus, our first official drinking session unfolded, with Joo-Han enhancing the festivities by bringing more alcohol and pork feet, transforming the living room into a veritable feast.
“Take it easy with the drinks unless you want to regret it tomorrow," I said, tapping Goh Yoo-Joon in the arm as he was bubbling with excitement.
“Just wait and see. I have a feeling I'm going to be great at this. If you end up under the table, I will graciously escort you to your room."
“Not even funny.” I was no stranger to the effects of alcohol, and from what I remembered, Goh Yoo-Joon wasn't exactly known for his drinking prowess. If anyone was adept at holding their liquor, it seemed to be Yoon-Chan. Though we hadn't been that close back then, I couldn't recall him ever showing signs of intoxication at our occasional gatherings.
“Both of you, keep it down. If you end up causing a ruckus while drunk, be warned, I will strip you down and kick you out," warned Joo-Han.
Joo-Han cracked open a bottle of soju and carefully poured it into the glasses that the manager had given us. Goh Yoo-Joon continued to marvel at every aspect of the drinking experience, though I doubted it was as thrilling as he made it out to be.
“I'm curious to see how the hyungs behave when they are drunk."
“It sounds utterly fascinating."
The prospect of witnessing Chronos's older members inebriated was a novel experience for the youngest members, who voiced their curiosity with eager anticipation.
For the youngest in the group, we filled their glasses with Fanta, offering a playful twist to the traditional toast.
“Let's raise our glasses, everyone."
Joo-Han led the toast with his glass held high; it was a signal for all of us to follow suit. “This year has been a marathon of hard work for all of us. Here's to Chronos's double rookie awards victory and to pushing ourselves even further this coming year. Cheers!"
“Cheers!" We echoed in unison, marking the start of a celebratory night in honor of mine and Goh Yoo-Joon's coming of age.
***
“You look like you've had a bit too much, hyung."
“Seems so." Amidst Jin-Sung and Yoon-Chan's quiet exchange, Goh Yoo-Joon, who had been the life of the party, spun around with a dramatic flair and announced, “I'm not even close to being drunk!"
He then approached the youngest duo with a wide grin, pulling the two into a bear hug. “Oh, my beloved kiddos, do you know how much your hyung adores you? I cherish you both more than words can say."
“Ah! Hyung, you are too much!"
“Maybe it's bedtime for Yoo-Joon hyung, huh..."
“I love you guys!"
“Ah, get off me!"
Goh Yoo-Joon's display of affection seemed boundless as he enveloped them in his warmth embrace. Kang Joo-Han gave a discreet nod to Suh Hyun-Woo who had been observing quietly.
“Hey, you there! Your friend's causing a ruckus with the youngest ones again!" The air around Joo-Han was thick with the aroma of soju.
“Why don't you step in and sort it out?" asked Joo-Han.
In a situation where Suh Hyun-Woo would typically find an excuse to bow out, he surprisingly stood up, ready to intervene.
“Alright," said Suh Hyun-Woo, as he gently but firmly pulled Goh Yoo-Joon back, adhering to Joo-Han's request.
“What? Hey! Aren't we friends?"
“Alright."
“Come over here, my dear friend!"
“Okay."
Goh Yoo-Joon wrapped Suh Hyun-Woo in a tight embrace with the same intensity he had shown Jin-Sung and Yoon-Chan, showering him with love. The peacemaker Suh Hyun-Woo kept his responses simple, nodding along with a calm "Alright."
Jin-Sung and Yoon-Chan watched this spectacle with a mix of amusement and disbelief on their faces. 'They really can't handle their drink,' they thought, recalling how Suh Hyun-Woo had just taken Goh Yoo-Joon's glass away ten minutes ago.
“Suh Hyun-Woo, you do realize how much you mean to me, right?"
“Yes.”
“Oh, for heaven's sake! Don't get hurt, okay? You are breaking my heart here."
“Mhm."
As Goh Yoo-Joon continued his ramblings while clutching onto Suh Hyun-Woo, Joo-Han slammed the table and pulled Goh Yoo-Joon away from the scene with a hint of frustration and concern. “Enough with the noise, you two!"
“Ah! Joo-Han hyung, our tireless leader, come join the fun!"
“Enough, you maniac! Back off!" Joo-Han managed to fend off Goh Yoo-Joon's advances with a swift kick and a firm grip, forcing him back into his seat.
“You are always the problem! Didn't I tell you to keep it down?" Joo-Han's drunken tirade seemed to fluctuate between scolding and a hint of affectionate concern.
“I heard you. I'm sorry, hyung. How about a hug to make amends?" Goh Yoo-Joon, ever the optimist, opened his arms wide as he attempted to hug Joo-Han. However, it was met with another dismissive kick. Stumbling to the ground, Yoo-Joon then turned his attention back to Suh Hyun-Woo who was sitting quietly beside him and resumed his affectionate assault.
Luckily, Joo-Han maintained his firm grip, being a silent guardian amidst the chaos.
“Hyung, this is getting scary,” said Yoon-Chan as he witnessed the escalating antics of Joo-Han's lecturing session. On top of that, Goh Yoo-Joon's relentless affection and Suh Hyun-Woo's agreeable demeanor made him decide that it was time for an escape.
“Let's call it a night, Jin-Sung." Without a second glance back at the unfolding drama, Yoon-Chan swiftly guided Jin-Sung back to the sanctuary of their room.
1. A Neapolitan horror story is a chilling tale that originates from Naples, Italy, known for its dark and macabre themes often intertwined with local legends and supernatural elements. These stories typically evoke a sense of dread and fear, capturing the eerie essence of this historic and mystical city. ☜