Chapter 8

BLOOM

Street Dance Studio.

All the trainees are celebrating Minha's debut. They were so happy since the first day they found out about their dance trainer joining Hybe Labels.

 

"I can't believe Minha unnie made her debut today. I got goosebumps watching her performance." a girl spoke, sitting in a circle on the floor.

 

"Yeah. Unnie is so talented, and she's so lucky to be under Hybe. No wonder unnie refused to join a different agency. Because she will get this chance to debut! I really hope we can debut soon and perform with unnie on stage." another girl said in a pleading tone. Two of them are always here, visiting Minha for dance lessons and they always enjoy the class.

 

Minha's influence on the trainees is clear. She's not just their dance trainer, but also a mentor and friend. Her teachings about friendship and support have shaped their relationships with each other, creating a sense of unity and camaraderie.

 

"Girls. Do you think Minha unnie will be here again to train us?" the studio belongs to Minha and they are always comfortable with her as the trainer.

 

Other professional dancers regularly visited the studio too, but it's just different without her. They were truly happy with the debut news, but the sadness is hard to deny.

 

The trainees' concern about whether Minha will return to the studio shows how much they value her presence. They're comforted by the thought that she might come back to visit, even as they acknowledge that things might be different without her.

 

"Let's not think that way. This place belongs to unnie. She will come back anytime soon to visit us. Remember, unnie let us use this place whenever we want. We shall not forget, our friendship was built because of her. We came from different companies, but unnie taught us not to be a rival even though we know that we will compete with each other after we debut.

 

Let's work hard, and be on stage with unnie in future." it's true that Minha taught them to build friendship with each other and continue to support even after debut.

 

Minha is someone who values friendship and relationship the most in her life, that is why they are close with her. "Where is ShinAe?" they looked around and ShinAe was nowhere to be found.

 

"Hm well, I guess she is still sad not debuting with unnie. It has been one of her biggest dreams anyway." ShinAe is the closest trainee to Minha among them, and ShinAe is a trainee from Source Music who trained with Minha for almost a year before Minha left for Hybe Labels.

 

ShinAe's absence is a poignant reminder of the challenges and disappointments that come with pursuing a dream. Her dream of debuting with Minha didn't come true, and it's understandable that she's feeling down.

 

Minha's debut has stirred up a mix of emotions among the trainees at the Street Dance Studio. They're thrilled for her success, but there's also a sense of longing and sadness, especially for ShinAe.

 

"I heard that she was absent when her company chose the new trainee to Hybe. It's understandable if she is sad about it though." they didn't see ShinAe much after that happened, because she was always absent and sometimes just excused herself from the dance lesson due to stress.

 

The trainees' conversation is a testament to the impact Minha has had on them. Her values, teachings, and friendship have left a lasting impression, and they'll carry these lessons with them as they continue their journey towards debut.


 

*******


 

They are still not used to the busy schedules, performing their song 'FEARLESS' in different music shows back to back. The early days of debut can indeed be a whirlwind. The girls are adjusting to a new pace of life, filled with back-to-back performances, interviews, and tight schedules. It's a challenging time, but also an exciting one as they're living their dream of being idols.

 

The unnies line, with their experience and maturity, seem to be taking it in stride. They're enjoying the moment and embracing the hard work. For the maknae line, it's a bit more challenging. The long hours and constant activity can be exhausting, and they're still adjusting to the demands of their new lifestyle.

 

They always fell asleep anytime and anywhere in the most uncomfortable positions, especially in the waiting room while waiting for their turn to perform.

 

"Do you think we can get busier than this?" Yunjin asked Garam, still shocked by the tight schedules since the debut showcase. The young girl is fighting with her sleepiness while trying to think of any answer.

 

"I don't know unnie. But I heard from Minha unnie, debut is the most struggle time for everyone..." yes they heard from the leader. They know Minha used to be a backup dancer for a lot of groups and the schedules almost killed her from exhaustion.

 

"Hard work, works harder than luck. I remembered everything unnie said before. It wasn't an easy journey for senior idols to achieve what they have now. That's why we need to work hard to succeed. " the young girl nodded at Yunjin, blinking her sleepy eyes.

 

"Let's work hard unnie. I wanna inspire people too, like unnies. I want people to look up to me too one day." Garam turns on her left side, looking at the hardworking unnies line memorizing the script for the interview later.

 

Yunjin and Garam's conversation is a testament to their determination and resilience. They're aware of the challenges ahead, but they're also committed to working hard and achieving their dreams.

 

Garam's desire to inspire others shows her ambition and her understanding of the impact they can have as idols.

 

Eunchae and Kazuha are sleeping in a sitting position next to them. Tired and uncomfortable. Chaewon came, still holding on the paper she was trying to memorize. "Wake them up in 10 minutes okay? Our interview is next." she pats on Garam's head and smiles at the two young members.

 

Yunjin is pouting and it makes her laugh. "I'm sorry Yunjin. You will get used to this anytime soon, I promise. I was just like you during IZ*ONE. Don't worry, I feel you." Chaewon's reassurance to Yunjin is a sweet moment.

 

Her experience with IZ*ONE gives her a unique perspective, and her promise that Yunjin will get used to the busy schedule is comforting. It's a reminder that they're not alone in this journey, and that they have each other to lean on.

 

Despite the exhaustion and the challenges, it's clear that the girls of LE SSERAFIM are committed to their dream. They're working hard, supporting each other, and taking each day as it comes and they'll continue to grow and thrive as they navigate this exciting new chapter in their lives.


 

"Seems like we have a lot of tiktok challenges to do today." Sakura said, getting the attention from the two members.

 

"A good way to promote our song right? And maybe, new friends at the same time?" the leader put away the paper and had a quick glance at the sleeping members.

 

What a busy day for LE SSERAFIM! Between interviews, performances, and TikTok challenges, they're certainly keeping active. It's great to see them embracing these opportunities to promote their song and connect with other artists.

 

"I actually love this trend. IZ*ONE members even personally asked me to do the challenge together. Can you meet them later unnie? You know how much they pleaded with me to see you right?" the bob haired girl is looking with the puppy eyes and it's hard to say no to her.

 

"Hahahah of course Chaewon. I'd like to see them soon for the challenges. Is it today?" a few more minutes before the interview and Minha is checking on her phone.

 

Sakura's enthusiasm for the TikTok challenges is infectious. It's a fun way to engage with fans and fellow artists, and it's clear that she's excited about it. The prospect of doing challenges with IZ*ONE members adds an extra layer of excitement, especially for Chaewon who has a close bond with them.

 

"I think we have a few of them today and a few more next time? We haven't checked who is available today, unnie." Sakura added while fixing her mic.

 

"It's okay. Whoever that is, I'm good to do the challenge. It's your friends anyway." Minha winked and left her seat approaching the make up artist to do a little touch up before going to the interview.

 

Minha's willingness to participate in the challenges, regardless of who's available, shows her flexibility and team spirit. She's ready to jump in and have fun, all in the name of promoting their song and building connections.

 

"Girls...wakey wakey. A few minutes left before the interview." Yunjin feels so bad to wake the maknaes who were in a deep sleep, but they need to perform after the interview.

 

Sakura rubs the girls back, feeling sorry. "Go get ready girls." the maknaes just nodded and wore the mic with the stylist's help.

 

Waking the maknaes for the interview must have been tough, but it's part of the job. They handled it with grace, quickly getting ready for their performance. The day ended on a high note, with successful performances and fun TikTok challenges with senior artists and IZ*ONE members.

 

Despite the busy schedule, it's clear that LE SSERAFIM is thriving. They're working hard, having fun, and making the most of every opportunity and they'll continue to shine as they navigate their debut period.


 

That night.

Right after the last schedule, the manager drove the car somewhere to drop off the leader. She actually requested to visit her dance studio after a while not being able to do so. "Thank you manager-nim. You girls go home, I'll see you tomorrow okay?" the girls were confused when Minha got out of the car.

 

"Alone? Can one of us go with you unnie?" Yunjin asked, looking around the empty street.

 

"Hm? It's okay Jen. I'm visiting my studio. No worries~" she just smiles about to close the door. "Wait wait." Chaewon got out of the car, grinning.

 

"What are you doing?" Chaewon with her bag, still smiling at her. "I'll go with unnie." the cheetah girl is staying with Minha, and Eunchae quickly takes off her seatbelt and jumps out excitedly followed by the rest of the members. "Me too! Me too!"

 

Minha was so confused and looked at the manager for help. Their insistence on accompanying her to the dance studio shows their strong bond and their desire to be there for each other.

 

"Sorry Minha, I think none of them want to leave without you." the manager's amused response adds a touch of humor to the situation. It's clear that he understands the girls' close-knit relationship and their desire to support Minha.

 

Minha's initial surprise at their eagerness to join her is endearing. She was probably expecting to have a quiet visit to her studio, but the girls' enthusiasm changed her plans. Their please-let-us-come faces would have been hard to resist!

 

This unexpected group visit to the dance studio is a testament to the strong bond within LE SSERAFIM. They're not just a group, but a family who look out for each other. Their visit to the dance studio will be a memorable one, filled with laughter, shared memories, and perhaps even a spontaneous dance session!


 

For the first time, Minha brought the girls to her dance studio. It's only 8pm when she enters the cold room. "This is where you practice before unnie? I saw this place a lot on youtube." Chaewon asked, amazed with the studio.

 

It may look simple from the design and decoration, but something about this place is making them filled with amazement. Chaewon's awe and curiosity about the studio show her respect for Minha's journey.

 

Visiting Minha's dance studio must have been a unique experience for them. It's a place filled with memories and significance for Minha, and now she's sharing it with her members.

 

"Yes. I am always here with the young trainees. I trained them with other dancers too." they walk around the practice room, when Minha allows them to touch the instruments.

 

"Trainees from Source Music came here a lot during the day. But I never saw you." Minha is looking at the maknae, curious.

 

"I- I was occupied with school too unnie. I just think that, practicing at the company will do. Besides, this place is always full right?" weirdly, Eunchae stuttered a little when answering Minha's question.

 

"True. But we always have space for a new trainee..." the leader sits next to the girl, fingers on the piano. Eunchae's admission about not practicing at the studio reveals a bit of regret, but Minha's gentle reassurance shows her understanding and empathy.

 

The moment when Minha plays the familiar melody on the piano is truly touching. It's a shared experience that brings them closer together, with Kazuha and Yunjin particularly moved by the music. The professional ballerina is holding back herself from getting emotional.

 

She used to dance with this song, for her performance a few years ago. One of her best performances throughout her journey as a ballerina. Another member to enjoy this familiar song, Yunjin is closing her eyes with a big smile on her face.

 

Sakura's decision to record the moment shows her appreciation for these shared experiences. "This place...holds a special place in my heart. You guys can come here anytime, mostly empty at night. Hope you feel like home..." Minha's invitation for the members to visit the studio anytime is a testament to her generosity and her desire to share this special place with them.

 

Her hope that they'll feel at home shows her care for her members and her desire to create a supportive and welcoming environment for them.

 

This visit to the dance studio is a significant moment for LE SSERAFIM. It's a chance for them to connect with Minha's past and to create new memories together. I'm sure it's an experience they'll cherish.

 

"Are you ready to dance?" Minha clicked on the speaker, turning on the loud music and the girls got excited. For the next 1 hour, they were enjoying random dance together. They were so happy as 7 members, a family.

 

The visit is well spent, and Minha is happy to see her members having fun in her studio. She leads them to the door, as the visit is over. She switched off the light and locked the door.

 

"I'm hungry..." Yunjin rubs her tummy as they walk off the building. The night breeze hit their skins, perfect weather for a night walk.

 

"Where are we going unnie?" Garam asked. They walk freely on the side road having masks to cover themselves. The leader is busy on her phone, choosing a menu.

 

"Let's have dinner at my place." they look at each other, confused as ever. If they're ordering food, they should be staying at the studio right? A lot of questions on their mind.

 

The cold breeze is making them shivers a little, so they walk together hand in hand. "Come here..." Minha extended her hand towards Kazuha.


 

The girls' confusion and excitement about the unexpected sleepover is endearing. They're probably curious about Minha's home and excited about the prospect of spending more time together.

 

Minha's casual invitation and her focus on ordering food show her comfort with the members. She's treating them like family, inviting them into her personal space and making sure they're well-fed.

 

For the first time, Minha brought the girls for a sleepover at her apartment. She just didn't notice the amazement on their faces. Thanks to her sister, Minhee, for taking care of this place when she was away.

 

The girls' exploration of the apartment is a fun moment. They're getting a glimpse into Minha's life outside of the group, and they're enjoying the chance to learn more about their leader.

 

"Food will arrive in 15 minutes." Minha went straight to the kitchen as the members continued to explore the apartment. This sleepover is another testament to the strong bond within LE SSERAFIM. They're not just a group, but a family who enjoy spending time together and creating shared memories. This sleepover will be a night to remember!


 

*******


 

LE SSERAFIM had a successful debut as the 4th generation girl group. And they stand tall despite Garam's issues that keep attacking the group's reputation since pre-debut. One week has passed, and the girls are performing their debut song on every music show in Korea. Today on The Show, they're the candidates for the 1st place with 2 other groups.

 

"Unnie, can we win today?" Eunchae asked with a little hope they can have the 1st win today. "Hm...I don't know. Let's just do our best like the usual okay?" Chaewon pat the maknae's head. Eunchae's hopeful question about winning shows her excitement and anticipation. Chaewon's reassuring response is a reminder to focus on their performance and not get too caught up in the results.

 

"So Eunchae, what are you gonna do if we win? You're gonna cry aren't you?" Yunjin teases the maknae. "Unnie~ If I cry, unnie will cry too! We're the cry babies in this group, don't forget that." she couldn't deny the fact that both of them are the crybaby, and she just frowned at the whining maknae.

 

Yunjin and Eunchae's playful exchange about who will cry if they win is a sweet moment. It shows their emotional connection to their work and their willingness to be vulnerable with each other.

 

"Just do your best at crying for the encore stage, Yunjin." Sakura laughed at the American, tearing off the melon bread's plastic. "Kkura unnie, can you do the same pose when you eat bread? The legendary picture." Chaewon's sudden request made everyone laugh so loudly.

 

Sakura's legendary bread-eating pose and the members' laughter add a touch of humor to the situation. It's a fun memory that lightens the mood and brings them closer together.

 

"I just love watching you guys roasting each other." Minha smiles at the members. She's covering herself with a blanket from the cold. Her comment about enjoying their roasting shows her appreciation for their camaraderie. She's content to watch them joke around and enjoy each other's company, a testament to the strong bond within LE SSERAFIM.

 

No matter the outcome of The Show, it's clear that LE SSERAFIM is a group that values their bond and supports each other through thick and thin. They're not just a group, but a family, and their shared experiences and memories are what make them strong.

 

"Are you okay unnie?" a slow and angelic voice came from her left side. Kazuha with her sleepy eyes, asked with a concerned look.

 

"I'm okay, just cold. What about you? You looked sleepy though? Aigoo, come here..." noticing the sleepy eyes, she moves a bit giving space to Kazuha.

 

"I just woke up. I fell asleep on the floor and I felt uncomfortable on my back." the girl just scratched the back of her neck while yawning cutely.

 

"You can't lie on the hard floor. Come lay here on my thighs." Kazuha gives a cute smile and lays down while covering herself with the blue blanket. Minha's invitation for Kazuha to lay on her thighs is a comforting gesture, showing her protective side.

 

"Thank you, unnie. Give me your hand, I'll make it warm." taking Minha's hand under the blanket, the Japanese blows at the cold hand as she closes her sleepy eyes. Kazuha's concern for Minha and her offer to warm her hand is a sweet gesture. It shows her thoughtfulness and her desire to take care of her leader.

 

"I'll wake you up 10 minutes before the recording." cutely nodded at the leader, Kazuha fell asleep comfortably with her head on Minha's thigh, hand in hand. Not long after that, Minha also fell asleep in that position. Their peaceful sleep, hand in hand, is a testament to their close bond. It's a quiet moment of rest amidst their busy schedule, and it's clear that they find comfort in each other's presence.

 

Kazuha and Minha's relationship is marked by mutual respect, care, and understanding.

 

Minha, as the leader of LE SSERAFIM, often takes on a nurturing role, providing guidance and support to her members. With Kazuha, she shows a protective side, offering comfort and warmth when Kazuha is tired or uncomfortable. This shows Minha's value of empathy and her commitment to taking care of her members.

 

Kazuha, on the other hand, shows a deep respect and concern for Minha. She's attentive to Minha's needs, offering to warm her hand when she notices Minha is cold. This shows Kazuha's value of thoughtfulness and her desire to reciprocate the care that Minha provides.

 

Their relationship is also marked by a sense of comfort and ease. They're able to find peace and rest in each other's company, even amidst their busy schedules. This shows their value of companionship and their appreciation for the quiet moments they share.

 

Overall, Kazuha and Minha's relationship is a testament to the strong bond within LE SSERAFIM. They value each other's well-being and comfort, and they're there for each other in both big and small ways. Their relationship is a beautiful example of the supportive and caring environment within the group.


 

Garam nudged the hungry Sakura, showing her the sleeping members. "Look at them, unnie." Sakura squeals at the cute view in front of them. "Omo~ I should take a picture of them sleeping." their reaction to seeing their sleeping members is endearing.

 

Sakura's decision to capture the moment with her camera shows her appreciation for these quiet, shared moments. The picture will be a lovely memory of their time together, a snapshot of their bond and camaraderie.

 

This moment of rest and comfort amidst their busy schedule is a testament to the strong bond within LE SSERAFIM. They're there for each other, offering comfort and support even in the simplest ways. It's these moments that make their journey together so special.

 

That day, LE SSERAFIM ultimately took the win with a total of 8,456 points, marking their first-ever music show win since their debut just last week. As expected, only Eunchae and Yunjin cried during the encore stage while other members were playing around with fans.

 

The tears show their deep emotional connection to their work and their gratitude for this achievement. It's a touching moment that they'll remember for a long time.

 

The celebration with cakes in the waiting room sounds like a fun and joyful moment. It's a chance for them to let loose and enjoy their success, and it was a sweet end to an exciting day.

Returning home after such a big win must have been a special moment. They've worked hard for this achievement, and they're looking forward to some well-deserved rest.

 

This win is just the beginning for LE SSERAFIM. With their talent, hard work, and strong bond, and they'll continue to achieve great things in their career. They can't wait to see what the future holds for them!


 

Dorm 1 (Minha, Sakura, and Kazuha).

"Whose roll cake is this in the fridge? I've seen this for the last 2 weeks ." Minha is looking in disgust at the moldy chocolate roll cake. Fast steps can be heard from behind, running towards her.

 

Sakura is laughing nervously at the leader. "It's mine, unnie. I forgot to eat it, sorry." taking out the moldy roll cake and throwing it in the bin, she scolds herself silently.

 

Minha just laughed at the girl and closed the fridge. Sakura's forgotten roll cake in the fridge is a humorous moment that shows her forgetful side. The leader reaction is light-hearted, showing her understanding and patience with her members.

 

Minha took 2 cans of Sprite before walking back to her room. As she walks past Kazuha's room, she can see the girl doing a plank twist. She just leaned against the open door, watching the workout routine from the young girl.

 

If Sakura is a camera maniac, this girl is a workout maniac. Kazuha's workout routine shows her dedication and discipline.

 

As the song finishes, Kazuha moves to turn off her ipad but suddenly her other hand slips from her plank position and Minha quickly grabs her. "Ah unnie, thank you." thanks to Minha, she gets up from the floor without getting hurt.

 

The leader handed a can of Sprite to her and said, "Be careful Zuha, you can't get hurt. Not on my watch." taking a sip at the Sprite, Minha is walking back to her room. "Yes unnie..." shyly thanking the leader, she watches Minha leave. Minha's concern for her safety and her quick reaction when Kazuha slips shows her protective side. Her reminder for Kazuha to be careful shows her care for her members' well-being.

 

These small interactions in their dorm show the close bond within LE SSERAFIM. They're comfortable with each other, able to laugh at their mistakes and look out for each other. It's these everyday moments that strengthen their bond and make their shared living space feel like home.

 

The workout becoming their routine, LE SSERAFIM have quickly become well-known for their incredible physiques. The group’s workout routine has become popular, as many people have tried to achieve similar results. Their workout routine has not only helped them achieve incredible physiques, but it's also inspired many people to follow in their footsteps.

 

They have even been nicknamed “abs-serafim” for each member having insane abs. The nickname "abs-serafim" is a fun testament to LE SSERAFIM's fitness achievements. It's clear that they're not just talented performers, but also dedicated athletes. Their commitment to fitness is inspiring and shows their dedication to their craft.

 

Minha and Kazuha especially are going viral for their even more muscular physique after fans spotted the difference on their back muscle from pre-debut. Fans are understandably impressed by how strong they have made the muscle in such little time.

 

During the interview on the debut showcase, Minha told fans that Kazuha and her wanted to focus on strengthening them. Minha and Kazuha's muscular physiques are particularly noteworthy. Their commitment to strengthening their muscles shows their discipline and determination. It's no surprise that fans are impressed by their transformation.

 

Even Yunjin, Sakura and Chaewon also deserve recognition for their great muscle and abs. Their dedication to fitness is inspiring and shows their commitment to their health and performance.

 

As for the younger members, Garam and Eunchae, it's great to hear that they're also participating in the workout routine. Even though they're too young for an intense workout, their participation shows their desire to stay fit and healthy.


 

Minha's room.

She couldn't finish the Sprite, she just flops herself on the bed. There's something going on in her mind. But it's too early to even worry about it, and things are going well for now. She just brushed it off, focusing more on her career.

 

As the leader of LE SSERAFIM, she feels a deep responsibility for her members, especially the younger ones like Garam.

 

It got worse after the debut showcase, especially after the question from the reporter. The young girl may pretend to be just fine, but as the leader she must do something to help. She wanted to have a talk about this issue with Garam, to get into the details but she always missed the timing.

 

Her concern for Garam's mental and physical condition shows her empathy and her protective nature. She's aware of the pressures and challenges that come with being in the spotlight, especially at a young age, and she wants to do everything she can to support Garam.

 

Wondering how Garam copes with the harsh comments at such a young age. Minha's eyes closed as she fell asleep thinking about her. She will try to find some ways to help regardless. The fact that she's thinking about Garam even as she falls asleep shows how much she cares. She's determined to find a way to help, even if she's not sure how to approach the situation yet.

 

Minha's concern for Garam is a testament to her leadership and her care for her members. She's not just their leader, but also their friend and protector. Her dedication to their well-being is a testament to the strong bond within LE SSERAFIM.

 

 

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