Chapter Fifty-Six: Yuan and Irene

g Shiqi immediately perked up, her eyes sparkling as she gave an enthusiastic introduction. After finishing, she closed her mouth and became a little reserved, not continuing to speak. She looked at t..."Wow, I didn't expect it at all. It's really Jingyuan and Joohyun unni who became the fixed MCs on Music Bank together..."

Behind the scenes of Music Bank, a few members of Red Velvet encountered Ji-sung and Soo-hyuk walking side by side, whispering to each other while holding their scripts. Seung-hee looked at the two who seemed to be very comfortable with each other, like they had been working together for ages, with a strange expression on her face. Her voice was slightly off as she spoke.

Although she had already heard the news from Oni and her manager, she still felt a sense of absurdity when she saw it with her own eyes today.

Although they may not be officially dating yet, the two have always had a very close and special relationship. Now, they can openly spend time together at the TV station thanks to work, chatting and laughing freely. They even stopped relying on frequent phone calls and now make sure to see each other every week.

Thinking of the company's strict requirements and strong opposition to love affairs among its idols, coupled with the scene before her eyes, she could only feel as if she were witnessing a bizarre comedy.

It's speechless, and somewhat envious.

"Are you guys still singing"

Even though he had just heard Park Ji-hyun mention it, seeing a few familiar faces still left Park Jong-won speechless. He looked at Kang Se-qi, who was sporting two braided pigtails and a country bumpkin-like hairstyle that he didn't know who had done for her, blinked, and asked.

He remembers Red Velvet was supposed to comeback in mid-March, it's been a month and a half already, how are they still here promoting Have they no shame He thought he misread the list of performers when he saw them listed earlier.

"You really don't care about us at all..." Jiang Seqi's gaze flickered across the smiling faces of the two, and she said with a hint of displeasure upon hearing this: "The company might want to do some more promotion, after all, the comeback results are pretty good this time, and it's almost over this week...Sigh, we actually helped you boost your listenership yesterday on time..."

“It's really heartbreaking.”

Son Seungwan put on a disappointed expression, but after only performing it for a few seconds, she couldn't help but laugh. She waved her hand and said, "But you guys really did well against BIGBANG, the internet is full of your news. Yesterday, we watched all the commotion on the forum for ages, even Yeri left a comment supporting you..."

"Hehehe..." Seeing Ji Jingyuan staring at her, Jin Yilin smiled cheekily and made a scissor hand gesture, looking like she was taking credit for something. This made Ji Jingyuan laugh involuntarily.

“Although I listened to both of your songs, 《lht》 feels average. 《Orientation Sniping》 is really good though, we all like it a lot.”

{Change source app}

Hearing a simple comment on EXO's new song, Sun Seungwan couldn't help but hum two lines: "You are my aim, this song title and lyrics are so good, it feels like it was written for me..."

"Haha..."

"Eh..." Ginger Se-qi, Kim Ye-rin beside her, either laughed or looked at Son Seung-wan with a disgusted expression, who was in a state of intoxication and self-satisfaction. After saying a few words, she also hummed along slightly.

Pei Zhuhyun smiled and watched her members play together, her eyes curved upwards, clearly in a good mood.

She also likes this song.

Due to the busy schedule, they didn't chat for long. After exchanging a few pleasantries with Ji-hyo and her, both Kiwoong and J-Hope bid farewell and headed backstage for an interview. Afterward, he was called away by his assistant and staff to prepare for EXO's comeback stage rehearsal and recording today.

Then I had to combine with myself for an interview, rehearse the ceremony stage, and practice hosting lines until the afternoon before things finally wrapped up.

Because the program team had previously announced that a new fixed member would be joining, and also stated that it was an idol from the same company, this sparked a lot of discussion and curiosity. Furthermore, this week's "Music Bank" featured a comeback stage by EXO, one of the hottest male groups at the moment, resulting in significantly higher attention than usual. Aside from fans supporting their own idols and those from rival groups looking for opportunities to criticize them, many fans from other groups and casual viewers also tuned in promptly awaiting the live broadcast to begin.

At five o'clock in the afternoon, after a bit of advertising and a prelude, started promptly.

"Live broadcast, ik!"

As the audience cheered, the rest of Red Velvet and EXO's Suho and Chanyeol appeared on camera. They shouted out the "Music Bank" slogan together before laughing and introducing themselves.

"Hello everyone, we are EXO."

"Hello, happy."

Seeing this opening, some viewers in front of the television instantly felt a stir. Some people who had seen online speculations about "C" immediately reacted and realized that "C" from the same company was actually referring to EXO and Red Velvet!

The woman has to be the one who didn't show her face, that's definitely Jennie. As for the man, I don't know who it could be... Could it be...

As fans and viewers watched with a mix of anticipation and worry, several people on camera began to introduce themselves. Sun Seung Wan, with an exaggeratedly surprised and excited variety show host persona, waved towards the camera:

"Starting today, Music Bank will be finalizing their new MC! Could Red Velvet be the new hosts"

"Could it be that wulixo will also appear in the new c position" Suho and Chanyeol exchanged glances, both with equal anticipation as they began to perform.

“Then who will the new C be Curious, right There are two special people waiting on stage now.” Kim Ye-lin said, while wagging her mouth like a fox and continuously pointing at the direction of the side stage.

"To become the center of 'Music Bank', there's a journey that everyone must go through." Next up, Park Soo-young.

"Huh Could it be the famous 'C' declaration"

Before Park Soo-young could finish her introduction, a sudden gasp broke the silence. The audience, already witnessing two figures taking their positions on stage, erupted in surprise.

"Now, let's see!" The opening ended with all six of them extending their hands towards the camera:

"Come out!"

Under their introduction, the scene changed, and amidst the cheers of the audience, Ji Chang Wook and Bae Joo Hyun appeared on screen. The two stood close, their left hands and right hands stretched out in the middle, intertwined together. Accompanied by the familiar melody of "One and a Half" appearing on the TV screen, they walked forward step by step with smiles on their faces.

Ji Jingyuan's black hair was tousled, and he wore a light-colored suit with a white undershirt. Pei Zhuxuan's brown curls cascaded down from both sides, paired with a white shirt and a pink pencil skirt. Her feet were clad in a pair of white stiletto boots, making the height difference between them appear much more harmonious.

The moment these two appeared on the screen, they caused quite a stir among the audience.

It's not because of status or popularity.

It's just because it's too beautiful and pleasing to the eye.

The two of them stood there, complementing each other in a way that was astonishing. Despite the potential for conflict, there wasn't any overt aggression. Instead, they radiated a natural, inexplicable harmony, a perfect match. They didn't need music; simply looking at them was captivating.

"West Eight..." This was a moment of intense anger for some fans of Ji Jingyuan. They were burning with rage, wishing they could jump into the screen and kick the ugly woman holding their beloved Oppa's hand to the ground.

I had been looking forward to it for half a day, and the good show turned out to be right above my head.

When I saw you from afar, my heart was debating whether to walk around. The two of them held hands as the opening act before separating on stage and officially beginning their performance. Ji Jingyuan sang his part while casually glancing at the left side of the camera. His clear eyes clearly contained a sense of exploration and hope.

But you want to see the seemingly changed you, and in your heart, you're wondering if you should say hello.

Pei Zhuxuan sat down on the prop stool, her slender legs crossed together, quite eye-catching. She clasped her hands on her waist, looking a little shy and nervous. After hesitating for a while, she finally looked to the side and waved her hand lightly with pursed lips.

"Ahhhh..."

This is a simple eye and hand interaction, and the audience below can't help but scream. They smile and stare at the stage without blinking, feeling like the show has just begun, but it seems to have entered a high state of excitement already.

Isn't this too sweet

"Walking towards you with a nervous heart, step by step." Ji Jingyuan walked towards Bae Joo-hyun step by step, softly singing as if expressing his innocence. However, sitting in the chair, she turned her back with some embarrassment, a shy smile on her lips.

Under the anticipation and lustful smiles of the audience, when it came to the chorus, Bae Joo-hyun finally stood up from her seat. The two walked to the middle of the stage together, synchronously performing a few simple actions, just twisting their bodies and waving their hands. Compared to other stunning performances, it seemed like baby steps, but those clumsy and naive movements did not affect the stage effect at all. Instead, they further heightened a faint pink hue, allowing the audience already in the midst of it to clearly feel the awkwardness and innocence between them, as well as a subtle hint of ambiguity.

Looking at the two people with eye-catching appearances, their tacit and thought-provoking gazes and interactions made their smiles widen involuntarily.

As the final notes of the melody ended, Ji-seong and J-Hope politely clasped hands once more. They swayed gently to the music, keeping time with their light movements. In the end, Ji-seong raised his hand, and J-Hope did a Latin-style turn on the spot. The two shifted from standing parallel to facing each other. They shared a knowing smile before turning their gazes away at the same time.

"Ahhh..."

The response to this C-declaration stage can be seen in the audience's frenzied reaction and cheers at the "Music Bank" live performance. The volume of screams below was like that of a popular idol’s just finished performance, loud and surprising.

Really, whether it's the on-site audience or the viewers watching on TV, everyone is truly seeing a couple with such high value for the first time. It's pleasing to the eye and makes you unable to look away.

The director, Han Kyung-je, looked at the monitors in satisfaction and nodded. The opening stage effect was better than he had expected.

He pondered for a moment, took off his headphones and asked the stagehand monitoring the data next to him, "How many are watching live"

It has already exceeded one point four percent and is still rising.

"... "

"

Hearing this number, Han Kyung Cheol didn't speak, but he clenched his fist tightly.

It's only the beginning and real-time viewership has already surpassed twice the average viewership of the past year. The two c's he chose, who are both visually pleasing, definitely didn't choose wrong.

Whatever doesn't work out within the company, whatever resources have been given up, it all feels insignificant right now.

"114 countries watching simultaneously."

"Live broadcast, ik!"

After the curtain closed, with cheers and applause as a backdrop, Ji Changwook and Kim Tae-hyung stood on stage, each holding a script and a microphone. Facing the camera, they began their fixed role as MCs on Music Bank for the first time.

"Annyeonghaseyo, I'm new to Music Bank."

"Annyeonghaseyo, I'm Irene from Red Velvet."

"Irene Xi, it's nice to meet you...although we've actually met many times already." After finishing his introduction, Ji Jingyuan turned his head and looked over.

"Well, huh…" The script only had the first line, and Bae Joo-hyeon was initially going to politely respond according to procedure. When she heard the second line, she couldn't help but laugh and glance at him.

Although I have already greeted everyone with a declarative stage just now, standing here I am still a bit nervous and excited, it's like a dream...

"Yes."

“Actually, I really like being the center for c. It’s really exciting to be able to take on this role on 'Music Bank'. My birthday is in May, and on the first day of May, I became the center for Music Bank, it's like receiving the best birthday gift ever, it’s so exciting.” I have to say a little more since it's my first appearance, Ji Kyoung-won laughed while trying to forcefully connect himself and this program.

“Really” Pei Zhuxuan listened and blinked at him, then nodded in agreement: “Yeah, actually Irene also has a deep connection with Music Bank. Our Red Velvet’s last win was on Music Bank, which brought us great honor. We are truly grateful.”

"Oh, then we could be the c of Music Bank together, is that destiny"

As if he had suddenly realized something, Chi Jingyuan turned his head and looked at the other person tentatively.

"It must be fate," said Bae Joo-hyun, also looking at him, uncertainly. The two made eye contact for a second, their eyes curved into smiles simultaneously before both turned away, facing the camera, their upper bodies leaning together, putting their hands under their chins to make a cute flower pose.

"Hyeri Hyeri is perfect for Music Bank's Irene!"

"And HOKI HOKI are suited for the Yuan of "Music Bank" to be in charge of the C position as May's first week on "Music Bank"! First, let's take a look at today's Kchart top two nominees!"

It's quite a coincidence that EXID's new song "Ah Yeah" and EXO's "Spring" were both nominees for first place on Music Bank during the first week of May.

"Spring Day" ended its two-week promotions but its steady sales and comeback in the charts keep it frequently on the standby list for music shows. Although facing new comebacks from popular groups like EXID, "Spring Day" failed to snag a spot on the top ranking despite being a month old with no promotional activities. This proves the song's quality and EXO's popularity.

"Are you nervous"

After introducing the idol guest performers, Park Ji-won and IU walked off the stage and stood at the entrance. Seeing the latter slightly out of breath, Park Ji-won smiled and asked with concern.

Pei Zhuhyun patted her chest to relieve herself, slightly pursed her lips and nodded at him: "There is one, what about you"

"Well, it's mostly because you raised me well." He genuinely blinked his eyes, showing a hint of gratitude.

"Cut."

But Pei Zhuxuan just glanced at her, completely unconvinced. She lowered her head to look at the script, smiled faintly, and then raised her head to look towards the stage with him.

When c and I sing together, it's a completely different experience. C has to stay near the broadcast booth the whole time, keeping an eye on the stage while also going over their lines with their partner or practicing the dialogue script for the next segment. They might also chat quietly with each other. Meanwhile, when I'm singing, after rehearsals, I can just chill in the dressing room and play video games. It's super relaxed.

If he were paired with someone unfamiliar, Chi Jingyuan might find it a bit troublesome, but if it were Jennie...

He leaned against the corridor wall near the backstage exit, a faint fragrance constantly emanating from Pei Zhuxuan who was standing very close to him, swirling around him and gently teasing his sensitive sense of smell and perception. It perfectly complemented her familiar, exquisite profile.

After casting a fleeting glance her way, he returned his gaze to the stage.

Two people partner up in this place, quietly watching the stage together and whispering discussions. This kind of experience is actually quite interesting.

Today's lineup doesn't have many familiar faces. Pool Kyung-won only knows EXID,AOA's Shin Ji-eun, and solo singer Kim Ye-lin.

The others are mostly artists I'm not very familiar with or have had no interaction with. There's also a large female group, ohygirl, who debuted just a few days ago. I heard they're from the same company as B1A4, but their promotions seem to be average and haven't made much of a splash. Before he became C-Jeongwon, I wouldn't have known about them at all.

However, he felt the other party's debut song was okay, and the repeatedly repeated chorus sounded quite powerful.

Besides the final segment where all members took the stage, C did not go on the main stage for other hosting segments. A separate host stand was set up beside the studio broadcast area for C to use. After finishing the second round of hosting remarks, Bae Joo-hyun left to change clothes and returned about ten minutes later with the other four Red Velvet members to start performing "Ice Cream Cake," a song they had surely performed countless times before.

After waiting for a while, Chi Jingyuan also returned to the backstage to change clothes. Although this light-colored suit was handsome, it still had some difference from the theme style of their comeback this time.

Because there was a senior idol from YG performing today, EXO's stage was scheduled as the second-to-last performance. After the girl group Dal Shabet finished their performance, the nine members of EXO returned to the stage. The pre-recorded video also began playing on TV, attracting the attention of many eager fans and passersby. Even the opening comeback VCR was watched intently, not a single second missed.

Nine portraits of EXO members appeared rapidly on the screen one by one, and finally, a row of colorful letters in the middle gathered together.

"hello, eback."

"Ding, ding, ding."

After the VCR playback finished, there was no pause in the music. Immediately after three drumbeats, the members who were originally gathered in the middle dispersed like stars scattering in a nebula, and Ji-yeong from the back of the crowd suddenly jumped out. He held a microphone in his left hand and gently pointed at the camera with his right.

You are my aim, my aim.

It goes without saying that it can be felt from head to toe.

"You are my aiming sniper, I see you at first glance."

"I can't help but want to possess your heart, and I think about it even before I fall asleep."

The song "Aim" has a strong sense of hearing, but the most touching and enjoyable part is the first two lines. Chi Jingyuan's magnetic and gentle voice, with a lazy and deliberate singing style, immediately draws everyone into the world of music and the stage as soon as it enters your ears.

This song is generally flat throughout without much variation. If I had to point out a killing part, it would be the very first line of the opening.

When recording, in order to satisfy the effect, Ji Jingyuan spent several hours grinding in the recording studio before passing. Now thinking back, his voice hurts a little.

The hairstyle is still the same as before, with slightly messy original-colored hair. A black hooded sweatshirt is worn over a denim jacket, and the bottom hem of a long-sleeved round-neck shirt peeks out from under the sweatshirt. The overall style is casual and sunny with a hint of hip-hop, giving off the vibe of a trendy college student walking the line between campus and the streets.

When watching Chi Jingyuan point at the camera and say to himself, 'You are my target sniper,' a moment of time, I don't know how many Ailis and girls in front of the TV screen were rippling with feelings, their minds in turmoil. All they felt was that this sentence was as if the boy on the television was saying it to them personally.

"The falling hair, so beautiful."

Shy smile, a dazed look.

"It's so beautiful to me, my heart is racing."

"Why is this happening now You're my target sniper!"

After finishing the opening, Park Chan-hyeok's two lines, it was quickly Ji Chang-wook's turn. He sang with feeling and skillfully filled the stage with his song. While singing, he moved back and forth with ease, raising his right hand in the air and waving it up and down diagonally, while other members stood behind him in their designated places and waved their arms in unison just like him.

This is the song's most iconic choreography. Though simple, it's very infectious.

However, this song is not a dance track, nor does it require overly complex choreography to enhance its appeal. Its charm lies in the expressions of each member, the relaxed and sunny fashion choices, the melody and rhythm, the vocal verses and rap sections, and even more so, in its title itself.

Fresh, cheerful, seasonal, sweet, and nostalgic.

The feeling of first love!

This is the most genuine and relatable feeling among fans and viewers at this moment. Listening to the strong rhythmic melody, they can't help but wave their hands up and down with the stage performers. In the end, they couldn't resist humming along together.

"I really like you."

Even the way you occasionally snore.

"That's also my type."

"I really like you."

First release on the Traditional Chinese Novel Network for a second, their eyes curved into smiles simultaneously before both turned away, facing the camera, their upper bodies leaning together, putting their hands under their chins to make a cute flower...