Chapter 404: Blank

The participants gathered once again for the announcement of the second mission. They were in a smaller studio this time, still extravagant but lacking the grand stage during the first episode. The tension undoubtedly increased compared to the filming of the first episode. It must be attributed to the backstage comments that they made on their competitors. SBC definitely made it a mission to create as much drama in the show as possible, and their plans worked. June kept his gaze to the front, but he could feel whispers being thrown his way. He finally glanced to the side and saw Y giving him a subtle glare, so he quickly looked away. He then caught a glimpse of Haruki, CHAOS' center, who was also looking at him with an indecipherable emotion. One thing was certain, though—Haruki's stare wasn't friendly at all.

June pursed his lips and settled his gaze to the front once more. It was almost comical how the two contestants with SS skills didn't see him in a good light. He could understand Y's sentiment, especially after the evil editing fiasco that SBC did. However, June couldn't understand why Haruki seemed to hate him. There was only one plausible answer—he must be acquainted with the former Choi Joon-ho. June's thoughts came to a halt when Jee Haemin entered the room with a wide smile. The participants quickly stood, bowing at their senior idol. "Thank you, guys, for coming here despite your busy schedules," he started off. "I know we just finished filming for the first episode, but we don't have any time to waste. We are going straight to the second mission!" The participants muttered excitedly, wondering what kind of mission they were going to undertake. For those who participated in Rising Stars before, it wasn't a foreign concept. However, it wasn't really an advantage. It seemed like those who already experienced survival shows were more nervous than excited. "But first and foremost, let's congratulate CHAOS for taking first place for the opening mission!" he exclaimed, gesturing to the popular group.

The other participants clapped. It was definitely expected, but it didn't take away their desire to take first place in the next mission. "Like we said last week, we will give you a benefit that could change the course of the competition," Haemin continued. The members of CHAOS confidently exchanged glances. "Even without the benefit, I think we're still going to win," Xion whispered to Gideon. Gideon smirked. "But that doesn't mean we're not going to enjoy the benefit." "But before we reveal the benefit, let me first brief you on the next mission," Haemin said, unveiling the clothed board behind him. "I just got transported back during our song selection in Rising Stars," Akira chuckled, finding the situation funny. "Yeah, let's not make June pick our songs this time," Jaeyong chimed. Four placards were on the board, each occluded with a sticker cover. "The next mission is entitled 'Blast from the Past.' We're diving deep into the roots of K-pop, where the pioneers of idol music left their mark. The first, second, and third generations of idols paved the way for the glittering careers you're all dreaming of right now," Haemin smiled. "Your mission is to pay homage to the legends who paved the way for us. Each of you will be performing a song from the first three generations of K-pop. These are the songs that set the stage for the industry we have today, and you'll be the bridge to the next generation of idols."

Haemin raised an eyebrow, teasing the contestants with suspense before announcing the first song. "The first track is a timeless classic from the first generation. It's Candy Shop by C.O.L.D!"

Gasps of surprise and excitement rippled through the contestants, and the pressure of performing a song from a legendary group hit them. The name 'C.O.L.D.' echoed through the studio, an acknowledgment of the original visual boy group that emerged from ESPER Entertainment. "My mom loves this song." "Do you think we can pull this off? The lyrics are insanely paradoxical with the tune." "Yeah, it's like a happy break-up song." "I think we can pull this one off," Jisung whispered. "June could be our center, and he can do the iconic butt-slapping dance." June shook his head as his members teased him. Haemin surveyed the room, meeting the gazes of the contestants. "You have the creative freedom to arrange the song as you see fit, maybe even create new choreography, but remember, the original lyrics and overall tone of the song must be preserved."

With a dramatic pause, Haemin raised his hand, ready to unveil the next song. "And now, brace yourselves for the second-generation anthem that shook the industry—the intense and aggressive love song, 'You're Mine' by FINITE!"

The mention of FINITE elicited nods of recognition and admiration from the contestants. The group was synonymous with the raw passion and emotional depth that characterized the second generation of K-pop. June could already see some of the participants wanting to perform the song for themselves. "Moving onto the third generation," Haemin said, revealing the next song. Gasps rippled through the participants as they gazed at the familiar song. Then, their eyes collectively turned to one of the participating groups. "And now, prepare yourselves for a surprise from the third generation—a true pop gem that encapsulates the glamorous life of an idol during their prime. Get ready for 'Prime' by SPADES!"

SPADES, themselves, were shocked to see their song in the list of choices. There were definitely other idol groups who were more popular than them during their generation, so they were honored to be the chosen representatives. "How can we perform this song when the original artist is here?" Seven asked, already dreading performing it in front of SPADES. However, it wasn't over yet. There was one more song on the board. The atmosphere crackled with curiosity since the participants were unsure of what to expect. Haemin merely mentioned the first three generations to be a part of the mission.

For what was the fourth one, then?

Haemin finally revealed the last card while eyeing the contestants with a mysterious smile. The participants frowned in confusion. It was blank.