Chapter 181: Joy (18) |
“Did you see that earlier?"
“You mean the two of them sprinting together?"
“Yeah, it was my first time seeing Hyun-Woo zip around like that." Jeong Hee-Su and Yoo Joon-Hwan burst into laughter as they faced each other, reminiscing about the unexpected turn of events during the relay race.
Suh Hyun-Woo was usually very calm and mature, but he had been coaxed by Goh Yoo-Joon into a full-on sprint, leading to an impromptu wrestling match that caught everyone off guard.
The memory of Hyun-Woo's antics was so vivid and hilarious that Hee-Su and Joon-Hwan found it impossible to contain their laughter.
“Never considered him for the playful type. They must share quite the bond in the dorm," Hee-Su remarked, still chuckling.
Over the course of three filming sessions, Hee-Su and Joon-Hwan had become quite close to Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo. Yet, witnessing their playful scuffle, they realized there was still more depth to their friendship waiting to be discovered.
Seeing Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo's brotherly bickering sparked a twinge of envy in Hee-Su and Joon-Hwan. "I wish I had a friend like that," Hee-Su lamented.
"Same here," Joon-Hwan echoed, his voice tinged with longing.
“They mentioned they won't be back until after the show.”
“Sounds about right. They are probably hanging out with the rest of their members now.”
“Oh, dang. The word ‘members’ really makes them sound like celebrities. I kinda forgot about that until now.”
Throughout their interactions, the image of Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo transformed significantly in the eyes of Hee-Su and Joon-Hwan. The two idols had become more like everyday friends for them, blurring the lines between their stage personas and their real selves. This newfound comfort allowed for effortless banter, leaving Hee-Su and Joon-Hwan curious about how the upcoming performance might further alter their perception.
As the time for filming approached, an announcement broke the chatter. “We are about to start filming! Students, please feel free to take a seat in front of the podium."
The students complied, filling the chairs arrayed before the stage. The homeroom teacher Kun-Ho initiated the talent show, and four stages prepared by the students of Memory High were presented. Among them, a team that covered Chronos’s “Parade” received a huge cheer.
Kun-Ho seized the moment, stirring the crowd. “After such a fantastic cover of ‘Parade,’ we can't just let the original artists off the hook, can we?"
“Waaah!” The students roared in agreement, their excitement palpable.
“For the special memories of everyone here at Memory High, our Yoo-Joon, Hyun-Woo, and the members of Chronos have come."
“Whoaaaaa!!!"
“Wow, what an uproar. We are going to present Chronos's new song “?: Joy" for the first time right here, even before its official release. Let's welcome them with a round of applause."
The mention of a new song stirred a buzz among the students of Memory High. Aside from Jeong Hee-Su and Yoo Joon-Hwan, Suh Hyun-Woo and Goh Yoo-Joon had become mere handsome classmates to everyone. What would it feel like to actually see them dancing and singing on stage? The atmosphere was filled with wonder and curiosity.
Soon, Goh Yoo-Joon, Suh Hyun-Woo, and the members of Chronos took the stage, standing side by side.
“Kiyaaaak~!”
“Whooooooo!”
“Wow! Chronos!!!"
The applause thundered through the venue, reminiscent of the vibrant energy found at a morale-boosting concert[1]. Initially taken aback by the fervor, the members of Chronos quickly shared knowing glances, their subtle smiles showing a shared sense of camaraderie.
They were dressed in effortlessly chic casual attire and stood out distinctly. Yet, amidst their fashionable ensembles, Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo managed to capture everyone's attention although they were clad in their simple school uniforms.
Kang Joo-Han, the group's charismatic leader, stepped forward and gripped the microphone.
“Before we dive in, let's kick things off with a greeting. Ready? On the count of three!"
“Hello, we are Chronos. Nice to meet you!"
“Yiyaaaaaa!” The response from the crowd was electric, with some students playfully exaggerating their reactions, much to the amusement of Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo.
Kang Joo-Han observed the playful banter and continued, “We are deeply honored to join you for Memory High School's sports day. It's a privilege to debut Chronos's latest track here, amongst friends and especially alongside Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo. It's a momentous occasion for us all!"
With a heartfelt gesture, Joo-Han placed a hand over his heart. As he faced a more intimate crowd than usual, the proximity to the audience—some of whom might be witnessing their first live idol performance—felt dauntingly close, almost as if their emotions were laid bare for all to see.
“Today, we are here to create unforgettable memories together. So, without further ado, let's unveil ‘?: Joy.’”
A wave of cheers cascaded through the crowd, followed by a hush of anticipation.
As the members of Chronos found their positions, the intro of the song filled the air. It set a cinematic tone akin to the climactic scene of a beloved anime or film, stirring an indescribable sense of anticipation with its hopeful undertones and the soft glow of an impending sunset.
The members of Chronos gathered in a circle and joined hands at the center, as if about to chant an age-old battle cry. However, as the serene intro gave way to a faster beat, they seamlessly transitioned into a dynamic formation, ready to embark on their meticulously rehearsed choreography.
The drumbeats resonated clearly, setting the stage for Lee Jin-Sung at the heart of the formation. He led the ensemble through a series of commanding moves. The performance marked a vibrant shift from Chronos's signature style, infusing the atmosphere with a fresh, youthful energy that kept the crowd's spirits high.
As the choreography progressed, they subtly moved within their triangular formation, with Hyun-Woo gracefully assuming the center position. Though the dance remained consistent, this subtle change lent a new, palpable energy to the performance.
Despite the shift, Jin-Sung and Hyun-Woo's radiant smiles remained unwavering, a testament to their rigorous training under Kang Joo-Han's guidance. It was time for Hyun-Woo to take the lead, his voice carrying the promise of spring as he sang his part.
The spring sun has risen
Though the spring breeze is still chilly,
It carries a warm embrace
When you wide open the window and take a deep breath,
The day begins♪
The authenticity of the live performance left the audience in awe. “Incredible, they are actually singing live.”
“Their dance moves are on point. Absolutely stunning.”
“They are freaking awesome!”
The question lingered: would the lighter tone of the song mean a departure from Chronos's typically intricate choreography? They made the difficult and intense choreography look effortless—though it only appeared so because of their rigorous training, it was actually very challenging—and delivered a stable live performance that pierced through the low-quality microphone.
From the very moment Hyun-Woo started his part, those who had previously expressed indifference toward idols or boy bands found themselves captivated.
Following his solo, Hyun-Woo executed a dramatic bow, setting the stage for Jin-Sung's athletic display. Using Hyun-Woo's back as a launchpad, Jin-Sung propelled himself forward, landing at the center to deliver his lines with confidence.
As I dash from my home
There are dozens of difficult paths awaiting me
Where will you be today?♪
Lee Jin-Sung shrugged his shoulders as if he didn’t know. Then, he playfully poked the air with his finger.
Waving my finger, I pick a spot♪
Kang Joo-Han, who had been dancing just behind Jin-Sung, approached as Jin-Sung’s part was coming to an end. Joo-Han then casually draped his arm over Jin-Sung's shoulder and sang his part.
I stop in front of the path and look back
Take the hand you, who followed me
Even if slow, let's get back to the starting line together♪
Kang Joo-Han and Lee Jin-Sung split to opposite sides while stretching their arms, introducing Goh Yoo-Joon who stood behind them. Yoo-Joon playfully walked forward, giving Jin-Sung a high-five.
Our steps quicken on their own
Time flows, we are still young
Everything is joyful♪
Yes, everything is so fun
Your playful and kind words fill today with laughter♪
After Goh Yoo-Joon finished his part with light movements, Suh Hyun-Woo, who had been dancing at the back, quickly ran forward and jumped, hanging onto Yoo-Joon's back. Yoo-Joon subtly staggered, shaking himself lightly to regain balance.
Hyun-Woo picked up the microphone and dramatically pointed into the distance.
Ah! There go the rolling leaves!♪
Then, Lee Jin-Sung and Park Yoon-Chan who was standing beside them burst into laughter. “Kyahahaha!"
After they were done, Park Yoon-Chan stepped forward and sang his part with his tender voice.
It's truly like a dream♪
With Park Yoon-Chan at the center, the chorus started—a dance without lyrics, accompanied by the sound of a whistle. They performed it with their hands in their pockets, relying solely on footwork. Park Yoon-Chan's effort these days shone through now, making him more than capable of dancing at the center.
Such a brilliant and beautiful time♪
As Park Yoon-Chan danced and gradually moved back, Hyun-Woo filled the empty space in the center.
With the same footwork, the dance became slightly more elaborate and dynamic by adding hand movements, differing from before yet maintaining a similar style.
From the beginning of the first verse, the song seemed endlessly energetic and lively. However, it was now enhanced by Kang Joo-Han's trendy rhythm and choreography.
The students became increasingly immersed in the live performance, particularly captivated by the presence of Yoo-Joon and Hyun-Woo, as it was their first time seeing them on the stage.
Only the second verse and chorus remained. Subtly, an electric guitar sound was added to the uplifting drum beats.
1. 위문 공연(morale-boosting performances) in Korea, are specially organized events for military personnel, taking into account that all able-bodied Korean males are required to serve in the military as part of the country's mandatory conscription system. These performances, featuring popular artists, musicians, and entertainers, are designed to provide entertainment and uplift the spirits of the soldiers during their compulsory service period. ☜
