#rkeunae

5pm.

the first thing she notices is just how beautiful each of them look. personally, she’s a big fan of their outfits, reveling in just how pretty she feels. she spends time appreciating each member’s appearance, though her gaze lingers on eunae in particular. she isn’t used to seeing her dressed this way; maybe that’s why she finds herself fixated on her, finding it almost impossible to look away for even a moment — she just isn’t used to it, she supposes.

she manages to make it through the press conference without saying anything particularly damning — meaning she’s off to a good start (thanks, refresher courses). if it’s any indication of how the rest of her day is going to play out, dawon knows that everything is going to work out perfectly. now isn’t the time for mistakes; it’s time to show all of korea just how powerful of a group luxe has grown to be, that they’re a force to be reckoned with.

6pm-7pm.

she absentmindedly allows her eyes to flicker shut as the stylist works on her hair, something that’s become a habit of hers in recent months. it helps her thoughts to slow down, allowing dawon to feel something that resembles peace before their big moment. she tries not to worry about what lays ahead, instead focusing on just how much they’ve practiced, attempting to reassure herself that everything’s going to be perfect.

once again, she’s impressed with what has to be one of her favorite hairstyles. “aah, you’re so good at this...” she compliments the stylist as she admires herself in the mirror, unable to resist the excited smile that takes over her lips. her outfit is just as beautiful, and she’s overjoyed by the way it compliments her — it feels like the perfect debut look, and it’s impossible not to feel beautiful as she gazes at herself in the mirror. sona’s much prettier than dawon ever was, she thinks to herself, a subtle chuckle escaping her.

she grows increasingly anxious as each second passes by, heart racing each time she dwells on the fact that their debut is less than an hour away. for as long as she can remember, it’s been something to look forward to — something distant that never felt all too real. but this is as real as it gets, and she’s going to have to face it head on — she still hasn’t wrapped her mind around it yet, but, with enough time, she thinks it’s something she can adjust to.

only a few minutes now.

8pm.

the vcr comes to a close, and, after a brief introduction, it’s finally time to perform.

i was born for this, she thinks, praying that she’ll be able to hold onto her confidence.

after xayah finishes her first rap in dangerous, it’s finally dawon’s turn to sing. it’s her first chance since royal survival to show her voice to the world, a feeling that she’ll never get tired of.

너는 늘 이렇게 떠날 듯 말듯해 날 한걸음 또 한걸음 밀어내 이렇게 점점 날 더 어지럽게 해 이 미로 미로 미로 미로 속에 갇힌 난

it’s easily her favorite song on the album — not only does she enjoy just how much she gets to sing, but she also appreciates how well the song suits her. it’s a song that she fell in love with from the moment she heard it, instantly making its way into her heart. she only hopes that the public will love it just as much.

너는 아니라고 하지만 내게 보이는 너의 모습들이 너는 나를 쉽게 흔들리게 해 가까워진듯 더 멀어지게 해 또 난 아슬아슬하게

the bridge she shares with jihyun is unquestionably the most powerful part of the song — deep down, she knows it’ll be enough to leave a considerable impression on anyone listening. there’s no denying that the two main vocalists sound great together.

너는 늘 이렇게 떠날 듯 말듯해 날 한걸음 또 한걸음 밀어내 이렇게 점점 날 더 어지럽게 해 이 미로 미로 미로 미로 속에 갇힌 난

as the last chorus brings the song to a close, sona tries her best to savor the moment. it’s hard to believe that she’s actually standing here performing in front of three-thousand people. even now, it feels like more of a dream than anything else. she scans the crowd, trying to spot whatever family and friends have shown up to support her, but it’s almost impossible to see anyone due to the lighting. at least i’ll seem them after the showcase.

luv me soon begins to play, and, while it isn’t dawon’s favorite song on the album, she still feels nothing but love towards it.

Oh do you love me love me love me boy Do you love me love me love me boy 나 얼마나 사랑해 어서 빨리 말해 머리 굴리지 말고

for dawon, the song passes by rather quickly, perhaps due to just how much she enjoyed performing it. this already feels like the best night of her life, and it’s not even close to being over yet.

over these last few weeks, she’s given a lot of thought towards how she wants to be seen by the public — sona wants her title to be something that represents her, a word that's synonymous with her identity. she wants to choose something that means something to her, something that’s always meant something to her. and, after thinking for what felt like a lifetime, she had finally settled on just what she was looking for. to them, she isn’t just dawon anymore. no, she’s finally grown into something more. “i’m sona, goddess of song!” she greets the crowd, a radiant smile still glued to her features.

“i love each of the songs on the album, but if i had to pick a favorite..." she pauses, acting as if she’s thinking for a moment so that the decision doesn’t seem too easy. “i think it’d have to be dangerous! it’s a song that i really love to listen to, and i think it suits us as a group well. it just has such a pretty sound to it, you know? i just love it.”

as the first mc portion comes to an end, they prepare to perform once more. this time they’re showcasing still falls the rain, another of sona’s favorite tracks from the album. it’s a song that suits her voice well, she thinks, and she’s grateful that they’re able to show many different sides of luxe as a whole throughout the album.

비가 내린 후엔 슬퍼지는 밤엔 널 부르다 혼자 아프죠

as they prepare to perform without u, sona begins to notice a pattern: she considers every song on the album to be one of her favorite songs from the album — it’s a far cry groups that actually go so far as to dislike their debut albums and songs. for that, sona’s grateful, having never been a fan of performing songs that she isn’t passionate about.

I’m OK baby I’m freakin’ good good without you I’m gonna good good good without you boy Without you boy without you oh~ oh~

[insert emo paragraph of the second mc portion ft. any story involving eunae here bc i don’t have time to finish writing it before midnight in like ten minutes]

she watches in awe as the music video plays, the final product revealing itself to be more than she could have dreamed of. everything about it just seems so perfect, though maybe she is a little biased. once again, time seems to fly by, and the music video soon draws to a close. now it’s time for them to gear up for the most important performance of the night.

her heart feels as though it might beat out of her chest at any given moment. this is it, she thinks to herself. the moment i’ve dreamt of for years. it still feels all too surreal, the idea that she’s standing on stage about to actually debut still feeling like a far away dream. only this is her reality, something that she’s worked so hard to achieve — it’s everything that she’s wanted for so long. she draws in a deep breath, unable to resist as her lips form a radiant smile, knowing that her dreams are about to come true. this is it.

I’m feelin’ it. And I feel good~

the first note is possibly her most important line in the song — sona puts as much passion into as she possibly can, hoping to put on the most unforgettable show of the night. no one will think of her as ‘unforgettable’ after this.

she loses herself in the performance, cherishing every second of it. they’re each doing so well, and she can tell just by looking at them that they deserve to be here. she feels nothing but pride for her teammates, overjoyed that they’ve each made it this far.

Now I feel good 기분 좋아 오늘은 다시 오지 않아 baby 나와 지금 기분 좋아 지금이 아니면 안돼 I feel good good good tonight

다시 한번 더 I feel good

as the song finally draws to a close, sona finds herself overwhelmed with emotions — visibly vulnerable for the first time on stage as her eyes fill up with tears. they’re tears of joy, she thinks, the subtle smile that graces her lips hopefully doing enough to show it.

(to be continued bc i ran out of time)

For the audience at home, a brief review of last episode’s events reminds them what’s at stake for tonight. Two groups have been formed by So Jisub based on the finalists remaining in the competition: Team A, consisting of YANG JIWON, JO EUNAE, LEE JIHYUN, MANOBAN LALISA, and LEE SOOHYUN; and Team B, consisting of PARK CHAEYOUNG, JEGAL SEOYOUNG, KIM SEOLHYUN, AHN HYOJIN, and NAM DAWON, and these groups are to perform one last time, their efforts and stage presence determining their future fate in Luxe-- or outside of it. As they’ve only been given a week to prepare for this performance, the pressure has mounted higher than ever and the resulting emotional responses have intensified, as seen in several clips of the girls as they are given a chance to capture a camera and confess their innermost thoughts.

“it’s been a really precious experience.” JEGAL SEOYOUNG says as she steeples her fingers. “In the beginning I thought… I probably won’t make it to the end, but I should still do it. I couldn’t give up the chance. but now it really feels like i could win.” Seoyoung reaches down and takes a sip of tea, which has now cooled to her satisfaction. “If you told me I would be a finalist on a Royal Survival show in one year, I would have fainted. Seriously.”

“The girls aren’t here right now, but I brought them with me!” JO EUNAE lifts up a picture they all took together at the very beginning of the show, when there were still thirteen of them. "We lost three girls along the way. Three talented friends. I guess you could say it’s to be expected when you enter a survival show; you never know when your turn will come and how you’ll react if it does. But when you’re in it, it’s different. We’re so involved that we don’t really imagine this could ever end. You know? The experience I gained during the show is priceless, really. I was confident in my abilities. Not arrogant, but confident. Maybe a little too much?” she laughs earnestly. “But I’ve learned that i indeed have a lot to work on still. i think even years from now, I won’t be able to be completely satisfied with myself. Maybe I’m too competitive, but I think it’s always possible to do better.”

“If I had an opportunity to do this again, to be on another survival show, I think I would do it,” KIM SEOLHYUN confesses, “I thought I knew what I would be getting myself into when I signed myself up for this, but some of the challenges, the interview and the dress…” Her eyes closed and her shoulders bounced in a silent laugh. Hands went up to cover her face with a whine as if wanting to forget the memory. “It’s nearing the end now, right? No matter what happens, every one of us did their best. At this point…  I’m also proud of /us/ for making it this far. Really, with all the memories we shared, I would be glad to be in the same group with any of them. But we’ll learn about that soon, won’t we? I’m nervous just thinking about it.”

“When I auditioned – I thought that I’d be a shoo-in.” LEE JIHYUN reveals honestly. “I’ve been at Royal for so long, I had to get in? But getting put into minor really made me work for my place. I had become so complacent that I had forgotten the feeling of trying and took my seniority for granted. If anything, from this experience – I learned that it’s never too late to keep trying, to prove your worth. Or, show that my dancing has improved a little bit – I know, I’m still not the best but I’m not exactly a sight for sore eyes anymore, right? Riiiiiiiiiiii –ght.” Jihyun laughs, hand coming up to cover her lips, muting the laughter trying to keep it at bay. “I just hope, in the end, that’s what I’m remembered for. started from the bottom, now i’m here.”

“Hi, hi! It’s me, Lee Soohyun, royal entertainment’s sunflower and precious chibi moon.” LEE SOOHYUN giggles then a soft smile appears on her lips, and she then turns the camera to show that she is actually at a cosplay cafe. “i’m here with my boyfriend you know.. i’m sorry sajangnim.. i didn’t want you to find out like this. he’s very good to me i hope you support us!” she jokes, but later becomes more sweetly sincere: “i pray that we make you happy with our performances, please look after us fondly. we all have worked really hard to be here, chasing any dream takes a lot of courage.” Soohyun smiles placing her free hand on her chest, “it’s scary.. even if we don’t show it.. we’re all a little scared. we’re bearing our hearts to you. so with that being said i always remember this: don’t forget, if usagi can! so can you! i love you guys bye bye! god bless!”

“hello hello hello!” MANOBAN LALISA says greetings in the three languages she knows — first korean, then english, then thai. “this whole show has been a wild ride, and so much happened in the span of a few months.” lisa takes a sip of her drink before continuing. “there are a lot of things that happened that didn’t get shown. we had a lot of hardships. sometimes i would be practicing all day and i wouldn’t realize the time, and since the practice rooms have no windows, i would barely even think about it… to be honest, it was difficult in the beginning because i knew that i was lacking, especially compared to the other trainees.” she pauses, taking a breath. “i think that’s what really motivated me. because i thought that i definitely couldn’t show that on television, and that i had to improve no matter what. and i’ve learned so much from sajangnim and my trainers and the other trainees, so i’m really really grateful.”

“it’s been, what, three months now? wow, it feels so…unbelievable. i still can’t decide if the time passed by slowly or quickly, but… i don’t think i’m ready for it to be over yet.” NAM DAWON smiled a warm and reminiscent smile. “it’s been such an important chapter in my life… it feels almost like i’m graduating high school again,” she admitted, light amounts of laughter spilling from within her. “coming into this, i didn’t think that i’d end up caring about all of these people so much, but…” she looked down for a moment, and, when her gaze lifted, it became clear that she had tears forming in her eyes. “coming from another company… i know that this is my last chance to be with them. i’m not ready to leave them yet, so i have to show that to so jisub by working hard, right? i want this more than anything… i realize that now. i’ll adapt, and, maybe you’ll see me on luxe’s debut stage! royal, fighting!”

“i remember when the show was announced, i didn’t sign up nor take part in the special training, i didn’t want to be apart of the show.” PARK CHAEYOUNG explains. “so, when i signed up, it was more-or-less on a whim.” rose glances downwards at her hands, fingers almost bare of rings, other jewelery which usually occupies every vacant limb. “i can say now, that i’m really glad i signed up, and god, who knew i’d be here still. i want to win.” she shifts in her place, leaning back in the chair, folding her arms across her chest, looking downwards. “it means so much to me that i’ve been given the opportunity to debut alongside them, we’ve worked so hard. let's go all the way together. no matter what, everything happens for a reason. this is park chaeyoung signing off, i may be rose of luxe or just rose of royal but,” she pauses. “either way, i’ll be happy. take care now, bye bye!”

“I’m trying really hard. Harder than I ever thought I’d be capable of. Not because…Not because I’m afraid of losing. I know I have to do well for the others.” YANG JIWON is too tired to stave off the way her eyes start to well with tears. “People think I don’t work hard because of the company I represent, or that I think I can just be better without…lifting a finger or anything. All of these girls are so talented. I never thought I’d make it this far. And they’ve all been so good to me. I hate the thought of them not debuting together, especially my teammates...” She sniffs, for at least the third time since she started recording. “I have to be better,” she concedes, looking into the camera, “It could be the last time anyone sees anything from me ever, and that’s kind of a big deal…”

From expressions of positivity to a consistent sense of fear of being eliminated, it’s visible to all that the girls are enduring far more mentally and emotionally than what is shown on the camera. It’s the cost of a survival competition and no one envies their position; they’re offering it all to the watching audience and only one man decides whether it’s good enough or not.

Once more returned to the stage, Seo Kangjoon introduces the first group to perform as Team B. PARK CHAEYOUNG, JEGAL SEOYOUNG, KIM SEOLHYUN, AHN HYOJIN, and NAM DAWON all take center stage and the lights and music begin for their rendition of the original song, “Want You to Say.” Jisub’s eyes are sharp as he assesses the performers individually: Rose, whose lovely vocals and stage presence have improved gradually over the duration of the competition; Seoyoung, whose full-rounded talent adds stability to the group’s overall dynamic; Seolhyun, whose usual high dance quality is marred by an injury he’d heard about from the choreographer, yet who still endures well for the camera; Elly, who impresses him with her suitability to this fresh concept, as well as her softer rapping style that’s a refreshing change to hear; and lastly, Dawon, whose singing style is as flawless as ever and has him closing his eyes in joy to hear it.

It’s tremendous. So Jisub is impressed and the feeling is revealed on his face as he slowly nods in approval once the performance ends. “Well done, girls,” Jisub tells them simply, smiling wide. There will be no critique for these final performances but he hopes his appreciation for their shown hard work is heard loud and clear as he claps strongly for them, along with the audience who shouts their praises to the five girls.

Byun Baekhyun comes to the microphone when the noise finally dies down and introduces the next group as Team A. YANG JIWON, JO EUNAE, LEE JIHYUN, MANOBAN LALISA, and LEE SOOHYUN all take their positions on stage and the lights and music go up for their performance to “Why Did You Come to My House?” An utter change of pace from the previous fun-hearted performance, the audience and So Jisub all watch equally fascinated as the up-beat stage takes place next. As before, the CEO quietly watches all girls in turn: Jiwon, whose potential he’s always believed in despite her being thrust into roles where she couldn’t show it off like the others; Eunae, a talented rapper who one simply couldn’t take their eyes off of whenever she appeared; Jihyun, with a singing talent to shake the soul out of viewers as she hits the challenging high notes; Lisa, the epitome of someone who’d worked hard throughout the competition to improve to his standards; and Soohyun, whose vocals fill the CEO with shameless pride that he’s found her such a long time ago.

Jisub feels the pressure mounting even before the song is over. In front of him now are five girls whose talent could shake a nation, and yet so, too, were five previously who could do the same. However, despite the heavy decision that he feels weighing down his shoulders, the CEO already knows the final conclusion he’s come to. These performances alone were never the deciding factor but everything up to this point. Their past performances, hearing the honest opinions from the coaches over these three months, watching the confessional interviews behind the scenes that weren’t always shown on air and, finally, his own biased opinion over who would suit Luxe -- all these factored into the decision he’d announce once the final ensemble performance graced the stage. “Absolutely fantastic,” he praises Team A, keeping to a simplistic approach as he conveys his happiness over their performance with enthusiastic applause.

The surprise for the audience follows next, as Han Yejin takes over the microphone to announce “Wild” as a special presentation for the loyal viewers watching the show all this time. “May I introduce… your finalists of Royal Survival!” she declares, once the girls have had enough time to quickly change into their ‘Wild’ costumes and the stage is reset for the final performance. The lights go on and the audience is mesmerized by the full sight of all ten young women challenging the third, most difficult concept of all: sensuality to bewitch the mind.

Jisub looks on with pride as he sees them all together on stage for the final time. His chest tightens with an unexpected rise of emotion as he thinks of all the progress they’ve made since joining the show. Those without confidence in their first challenge now shine like stars underneath the bright lights and he exhales out a long breath, smiling fondly as they dance together as a unit and entertain the audience with their unique charms.

Of these girls, his Luxe would be born.

When the performance ends, the audience roars with thunderous cheers and applause. The girls are given time to soak in the live reaction, standing on stage to hear what’s justly deserved as the camera crew and stage crew hurriedly switch over to the results stage. The audience at home is given a commercial break while they do so, and Jisub takes the time off camera to stretch out his legs and take a much-needed sip of water.

This was it. The final reckoning.

There’s no way for him to prepare himself for the inevitable heartbreak he’d cause on that stage tonight. Jisub knew this was the end for several of them, some who might leave his company out of grief and giving up on their dreams ( though, of course, he’d hoped they wouldn’t. ) But, for the others, those who would start on this road with him to make Luxe the shining new stars of the idol industry, he would have to steel himself to face the consequences.

When the show returns, Jisub stands and faces the girls, still dressed in their Wild costumes, with a bittersweet expression. “Thank you, girls, for everything,” he tells them sincerely. “These last three months have been eye-opening and I’ve seen talent that takes my breath away still even today.”

“Without further ado, I will now sort you into groups for the very last time.”

The audience gasps in surprise at this announcement but Jisub has anticipated this reaction and ignores it, choosing instead to stare steadily at the line up of finalists up on stage before opening his mouth to announce their names one by one.

“Ahn Hyojin… you will stay in Team B.”

“Jo Eunae… you will stay in Team A.”

“Kim Seolhyun… you will move to Team A.”

“Lee Jihyun… you will stay in Team A.”

“Lee Soohyun… you will move to Team B.”

“Manoban Lalisa… you will move to Team B.”

“Nam Dawon… you will move to Team A.”

“Park Chaeyoung… you will stay in Team B.”

“Yang Jiwon… you will stay in Team A.”

Jisub pauses, considering the new groups as they stand now: Team A, consisting of JO EUNAE, KIM SEOLHYUN, LEE JIHYUN, NAM DAWON, and YANG JIWON; and Team B, consisting of AHN HYOJIN, LEE SOOHYUN, MANOBAN LALISA, and PARK CHAEYOUNG. The CEO’s gaze settles on Jegal Seoyoung, considering her for a long moment of contemplation before finally speaking.

“Seoyoung, you will join Team A as the sixth, and final member, of the new Royal girl group Luxe.” His smile is radiant as he stares at the chosen girls. “Congratulations to all of you. You have been truly outstanding all of this time.”

To the members of Team B, Jisub’s tone takes on a softer tone. “Ladies, you, too, have been absolutely outstanding since the start of this competition. But, for several of you… Lisa and Rose, especially, I believe there’s still time for you two to grow. You are young trainees still and time is what you need in order to train to reach your fullest potential. Keep working hard, training hard, and debut will certainly be in your futures.” To Soohyun and Elly, he also nods his head apologetically. “For you two, as well, it was a close call -- and probably the hardest decision I have had yet to make. However, Luxe is not the group that is meant for you. I know what you two are capable of, probably better than you know yourself, and I assure you, as your CEO, that I will always steer you in the right direction. I am proud of you, of all four of you, and I can only see your futures expanding wider from this moment on.”

Jisub then turns his attention to the winners of Royal Survival -- the six girls who will soon be presented to the world as his Royal LUXE. “Eunae, Seolhyun, Jihyun, Dawon, Jiwon, and Seoyoung… each of you has proven yourselves to be exactly what I’d hoped for when this competition began. Full of talent, full of potential, beautiful as well as hardworking-- let us travel this road together from now on. Congratulations,” he says again, warmly. “You have won the final round of Royal Survival.”

[ OOC Note: ]

Congratulations to the winners of Royal Survival, and a heartfelt thank you to the contestants who have worked hard to make this event a truly special experience!

For the finalists who have won a position in Luxe, a follow-up post concerning the group concept will appear on Royal Entertainment’s company blog in the next few days (my personal time permitting) with further instructions about what will occur in the next stage for you. For Eunae, Dawon, and Jiwon, a meeting between Royal Ent. lawyers and their original company lawyers will take place privately in which Royal will follow legal procedures to officially buy out their contracts. You will be given a two year contract with Royal starting on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 while those already in Royal will keep the same contracts they have now.

For the finalists who did not win, you may return to your original trainee status that you held prior to the beginning of the competition. Everyone will be expected to move out of the Seocho dorms before the weekend (December 9th) and can return to their normal living spaces and training schedules by the 6th.

Any questions may be sent either to the Royal Ent. inbox or to Mod Sera or to Mod Kyle, as appropriate. Once again, thank you all so much (as well as our opinionated netizens!) for making this event truly a memorable one. Let’s meet again soon! ^v^

For the Royal MCs, BYUN BAEKHYUN and SEO KANGJOON, you may use this episode as the proof post of your participation in this event. Please provide this verification form along with your usual workshop forms for the December 6th activity check. You may submit both Episode 7 and 8 forms together if you wish.

ROYAL SURVIVAL EPISODE 8 (for the Dec 6th form)

[ x ]  * link to this post

+10 CHARISMA POINTS

+ 2 DEBUT POINTS

+1 WK RADIO/TV HOSTING (CURRENT LEVEL + NUMBER OF TIMES TAKEN)

it’s a blur, hypnotizing her as she watches on -- caught on the daze. a romanticized gleam that steal her attentions until eunae comes up from behind her, hands interlocking with her own -- breaking that enchanting spell that had sunken it’s claws deep. the familiar call of unnie has her turning, a sentimental smile donned. this really was it, she thinks as they’re rounded up. their little circle of five, arms round one another as they call for one last meeting ( hopefully not the very last ) as royal flush before the curtains were drawn.

of course, it wouldn’t be like her to let this one slip without any sort of encouragement; 

         ❛   no matter what -- i’m not going to regret a thing,              i love you guys and that’s that. i know we’re going              to give it our all and kill it.   ❜

she shares smiles, the tightening of her embrace with jiwon, keeps her close a little while longer, as her lips whisper good luck and praises, alike; each one different, a variety of sentimental love that wraps around her tongue and sings its way into her members’ ears. she hopes the best for each, and until the very last second when they’re nothing left but them and the darkness of the stage -- she’s there, tightening her hands around eunae and jiwon’s before letting go.

here goes nothing. 

the strong beginning comes and it’s lisa’s time to shine. and shine, she does -- jihyun couldn’t be prouder. for all the worst the show had thrown at lisa, she’s still standing here beside jihyun, and the older girl couldn’t be prouder. the countless times she’s told the other she deserved it and that her time would come. she could see it now, she was shining as bright as the diamond jihyun was convinced ( from the very beginning, like she had always said back during the mgas ) lisa had always been. 

     WILL YOU COME TO ME MORE,                             LITTLE BY LITTLE ---  ❜

jiwon comes after and jihyun can’t help but look at her. look at her. for as much as she thinks she’s not a dancer, jihyun wants to tell her she’s as natural as can be -- better than the other gives herself credit for. the lines don’t do her voice justice and for that, jihyun feels a pang of guilt especially when she remembers walking into the other’s recording session with the girls. a planned surprise that called for hugs and a little more praise -- the other’s tears bringing jihyun close to her own at the time. she can see now that jiwon deserved more and for that, she hopes this wouldn’t be the other’s last. there was so much more that jiwon had to offer. 

and if jiwon had much more to offer, so did eunae. a favorite from the beginning, everyone knew eunae -- they knew the talent the girl had. and as someone jihyun held dear to her heart, she had rooted for the younger girl to the very end. when they had switched places, it was jihyun would had come to the other near tears, telling her that this wouldn’t be the end of it. they were both going to make it to the end. and here she was, her very own colorful rap shining amongst a group of vocalist. a powerful talent that, if anything, could easily shine on its own -- blending in perfect harmony with their voices. if anyone could do it, jihyun knew it would be eunae. it had to be eunae, and as much as she loved elly as well, jihyun was glad she had eunae beside her in team a. 

      ❛  BUT STILL,                  I CAN LOVE YOU .

and for dearest of dears, she couldn’t believe it -- not that she was surprised but because soohyun was here, in the same group as her. it had been something talked about, a wish with a substantial amount of hope lingering behind it. jihyun wanted to debut with soohyun and seeing soohyun beside her in the final group leading up the the finale had made her heart as whole as it come be. soohyun had been a favorite, one she knew would capture everyone’s hearts and for her to be standing beside jihyun, jihyun couldn’t believe it. 

from the start, their relationship had begun to rock in unsteady waters. when she had fallen from grace, left in minors -- to majors, all the way to the very last episode. surprise was an understatement. from the wasted attempt at an audition, jihyun had felt she had failed soohyun and had spent episode after episode trying to make it up to the other. proving to the younger that she was someone to look up to -- that the respect she had garnered for jihyun wasn’t for naught. it was now, that she could truly and finally prove it. she had made it to the end -- if it hadn’t been for soohyun pushing her, would she had really made it all the way? no more would she have to prove it to her -- now that she was right next to the other, she was going to show her she wasn’t finished yet.

as individuals, they each had their strengths. but as a group, it meant bringing all those strengths and making them work in unity. royal flush, for jihyun, were the best at it. their colors were a strong blend of charisma and individuality that jihyun had fallen for faster than she’d thought. and in it, she feels comfortable enough to play at her strengths, knowing that the others would not only match her own but elevate the groups’ potential as well. 

and as one of the group, jihyun knows now isn’t the time to let everyone down. quite the contrary, it was the time to put it all on the line. she works past her own insecurities to show off her strengths. the thing she was so sure about from the beginning and makes a run for it, a breath in as the awaiting high note comes closer and closer and --

all or nothing, it was the last episode, after all. 

she didn’t want this to be the end for them, if anything -- it was going to be the beginning. 

rose spends most of the first tag tagging along with the rest of the girls at rainbow stream and spa valley, testing the different attractions, seeing which one was her favourite. she doesn’t go out of her way to approach the cameras, but nonetheless, she comes across as though she’s having a whole lot of fun and she is. cameras would hopefully catch sight of a very happy, laid back girl in her element, outside amongst her friends having the time of her life. it’s nice to take a step back from the stress of serious evaluations and prompts; although rose can’t help but dwell on the next episode and what’ll be happening for her; unless jiseob is planning a surprise elimination at the waterpark. if so, that’d be a total downer. she enjoys swimming around in the deeper waters, answering eunae’s call willingly. day one is refreshing and fun, and rose is hoping that she’ll have enough energy to enjoy the following few days. if anything, she’s going to sleep well tonight.

the second day is a little more fun-filled and full on. she spends a good portion of the day attached to seolhyun’s hip, accompanying her in the shallow ends of the pool as the older female is unwilling to travel into the depths, which rose thinks is fair enough. seolhyun grabs at rose whenever the two of them go a little beyond feet touching ground territory, leaving seolhyun to go into a panic. rose smiles and holds her hand, helping her back into comfort zone, moving back to the shallow depths once more. however, the moment where seolhyun was flipped out of her inflatable lounge chair was a scare for the both of them and rose being rose immediately reacted to the situation, helping the other, asking if she was okay, peeling bits of a wet hair back from her face with a gentle smile. later on, rose is found by jihyun’s side, sneaking a peak at the food carts, ice-cream’s in hand; all whilst in the midst of a water fight. water pistol in rose’s hand, she finds herself being dragged off in the opposite direction by jihyun, hand in hand. rose cries out a little while licking at the banana and vanilla ice-cream that drips down the edge of the cone. she didn’t want to be that kid to drop the pricey ice-cream cone at the waterpark.

she hadn’t anticipated how she’d feel for the filming to come to an end. even with cameras following their every move, it had been a total refresher for rose; in her eyes the filming had totally been worthwhile and she would love to do it all again with the girls if given opportunity ( although, she knows that it’ll never be like this ever again. some will triumph and others will falter, that’s the bitter truth of royal survival ). the funzone is filled with sand, almost like a large stretch of beach or a giant sandpit; rose felt like a little kid again, especially when all of the girls went head to head in a sandcastle battle. teaming up with seolhyun, rose is asking seolhyun if she knows anything about making sandcastles as though there is a science behind making the sand structures. it’s all trial and error, either too much water or too much sand. rose sighs in defeat each and every time but ends up trying again, determined to make some form of structure before the filming day is over. and they manage, rose adds small, makeshift flag poles made out of icey-pole sticks and leaves before shouting out of victory with seolhyun, the two holding hands before going in for a hug to celebrate their success. volleyball is also a focus of this day of filming, although rose admits she’s feeling a little bit lightheaded, sits on the sidelines with a bottle of water, watching the girls play volleyball. while the day ended on a little bit of a downer for rose, nonetheless, it was fun. she couldn’t put a finger on what her favourite day was, but on the ride back to the dormitories, she falls asleep without hesitation or trouble, cheeks dusted with pink. rose has had a decent amount of sun, perhaps a little too much.

seoyoung

i think she’s really cute, i think she could be a staple member? she can sing well enough, dance well enough, and she’s cute. unfortunately she’s not my favorite girl here, i won’t be mad if she ends up in the final lineup. i do think she has a chance. seoyoung is a fan fave no? i bet she’s really popular with guys. i’ll go look to find seoyoung supporters! i bet i’ll find some! i like girls with a lot of aegyo, so seeing her smile warms my heart so much. a precious noona really!

jihyun 

i am an avid supporter of lee jihyun and lee soohyun! team vocalee! i remember seeing that on social media, so i’m coining it here. jihyun has come far, her audition left much to be desired BUT BUT!!! noona seriously came through these past few episodes!! finally, we’ve been waiting and she’s delivered! her vocal color is super pretty, and she just seems so.. mature? no not mature, she’s cool but i bet she’s a bit dorky in person. i really want to meet her someday.. i wonder if she’ll follow me back on twitter. in regards to her talent, it’s obvious she has it. she better end up in the final lineup, jisub hyung will shoot himself in the foot if he doesn’t put her there. her visuals.. remind me of.. like early 2010s kpop? big pretty eyes, small face! chic right? 

rose

she has a nice voice, she’s pretty too. it’s just.. sometimes i forget about her, when she’s next to other girls. when i see the camera just pan to her, i go, “ah there is rosie noona, ah she looks good this episode.” but when she’s around other girls i forget her. i want to see her play guitar more, i do think jiwon and her match well. fansites will probably pop up for their ship. stylistically and ideally, i’d like to see her as a solo or maybe in a duet situation? i don’t think being in a group is for rose. i think she’d be the type to do rebellious things to get attention, or do something to damage the group. better off alone or in a small group. 

seolhyun

she’s... not my type at all actually. that being said i do think she’s gorgeous, but i wouldn’t go out with her. her dancing is nice to watch, but she comes off.. a bit i don’t know... fake? not fake i guess. maybe the sort of girl that’s like really full of herself. she’s just pretending to be humble. her singing in my opinion really needs work, she’s definitely sub vocal level. compared to the other vocalists... she’s okay. i personally believe she’ll end up on the final lineup, which isn’t a bad thing. i feel that jisub hyung will put her in the group, even if she doesn’t fit the concept. he is going to make seolhyun happen somehow. ( this can backfire jisub hyung so be careful ) 

lisa 

i don’t what it is.. about her, but i really do like lisa. actually i feel bad for lisa, because she’s trying her best but keeps being thrown into the minor team. ever since the first episode i feel she’s been an underdog, it’s insane how gorgeous she is. you can be pretty and be an underdog. sometimes looks can’t get you everything, but i do feel happy that lisa is realizing she has to have something even if it’s mediocre. lisa-ah, continue to find your niche! i do think she should try being a variety personality or fashion model. if we’re talking skills, lisa i think she should take dancing more seriously! her body is really thin and pretty, so the movements will look 10 out of 10! 

dawon

this girl can sing, and she continues to improve with being more memorable. her singing is on par with jihyun, in my opinion, and i do think dawon can knock it out of the park and make the cut. from nova right? why has nova tucked her away this long? jisub hyung aka mister steal yo trainee, has come through. he’s not going to let her go now that he’s really seeing her come out of he shell! she’s on the major team where i think she’s going to stay for a while. as for her visuals, she actually has a very sweet girl next door look. in the way you could meet someone like her on the street, approachable! 

soojung

i think.. she’s really pretty.. that’s kind of it. her voice is nice, but i’ve heard many voices like hers. seen plenty of faces like hers even, i do think she’s improved on making a presence, i just.. eh. i’m bored by her. a piece of decorated vanilla cake. you’ve seen and tasted it a million times. bland and safe. add some sprinkles to your life soojung! or even colored frosting! 

soohyun

i’m enchanted by her, lee soohyun is going to be my girlfriend. she can sing, and she’s so bright.. every time she talks it’s like a song! someone like soohyun is my type ~ i love that she’s always herself no matter what, she knows how to make everything her own. also she seems so sweet, like.. a strawberry shortcake. layers of loveliness, and no matter how many times you eat it you love it! sure she isn’t a dancer, but for me it doesn’t matter. when she sings i can forgive her bad dancing. ( sorry soohyunie.. forgive me... ) her voice sounds like.. spring? when she sings i know it’s her. i love how she is a low key otaku.. Otakuhyun!! i do want to see her in the final lineup along with jihyun, i think together they could make magic. i’m a supporter of the vocalees! i do think she should us show a mature image someday, maybe with a sensual song? goodbye baby was a 180 of her usual image and i really enjoyed it. ( TT I’m not a pervert okay. ) most guys probably will think she’s short and chubby, not pretty at all. but she makes my heart beat! 

jiwon

personally her voice isn’t my favorite, i prefer dawon, jihyun and soohyun’s voices. i do think she could be in an idol group, unlike rose. but i think she matches well with rose maybe they can be a duet. she’s been a trainee for a looong time, longer than most girls on the show.. you think she’d be able to do a variety of things. maybe we just haven’t seen or heard everything she can do yet! i am curious to see more of jiwon, she’s seriously gorgeous! she’s from america too right? i wish they’d show her talking to the other girls in english, i bet she sounds really chic... maybe i should learn english too TT 

eunae

okay honestly, kt should’ve kept this girl with them. katie lee is going to regret losing her to jisub hyung. she has what it takes to make the final line up, she looks like an idol. in the sense that this was really meant for her to do? like she’d be blend easily into a girl group and stand out all on her own you know? i think she’s going to go really far. tall, pretty, talented? i’m sure guys are lining up to get her photocard, autographs, girls will too! i think she’s the true girl crush of this show, i think she already has supporters. i wonder if she has fansites around? eunae is a gem, and i can’t wait to see her grow! she’s a rapper, hopefully she gets a little.. better at singing.. because i don’t know what happened during goodbye baby.. she sounded.. pretty.. bad. i still like her though! 

elly 

see that big ol’ fat angry mean statue right here? that’s so jiseob.. jisub.. geez sub, whatever you say his goddamn name!! ffs

i’m the big dragon here! anyways let’s start.. with ma big opinions for a small lizard.. (don’t call me that!!) i’m a dragon.

ahn hyojin (elly) - trainee for one year, three months

wOOW look at this beaut-i’m at loss for words at her talent but she apparently seems to be a scandalous girl? issues with texting bUT YA KNOW WHAT?? i like this girl cause she gives me the vibe she likes to be who she is and don’t give a f*ck. i think she’s pretty badass and gives me the vibe that she’s just not like your ordinary idol. she’s an all-rounder, i’ve grown fond of elly! her rapping flow entices me, she spits dragon fire when she raps. ooo~~

jegal seoyoung - trainee for eight months

she has these cute cheeks and this girl has a lot of cuteness to her.. she seems like she could go on variety but there should be more to her personality than just looking.. cute? i think she gives me that natural kind-of vibe you wouldn’t find elsewhere, like she’s a down-to-earth girl and not just trying to show off. she’s who she is and she does her best at being naturally cute but would i say she’s more of a vocalist or dancer? she’s a decent dancer but not like jazz (HOT MAMA CAN WORK THOSE HIPS, THEY dON’T LIE LIKE SHAKIRA OH MA LORDE!!) i mean.. jazz dances really well cause ya’know, jazz! but her voice doesn’t captivate me like jihyun or dawon would.

jo eunae (bekah) - trainee for nine months

ooo this girl is different!! she’s a cali girl and that’s cool, you stay cool like the cool weather in cali! she seems to be a strong candidate. man i think jisub’s bringing these girls down with their confidence but i like how strong and fierce eunae is. i’m curious what else what she can bring in the potluck! too many girls in this show are so quiet that i’m starting to fall asleep in my tomb.. liek the time my ancestors were nagging to me about how i don’t clean the pagoda and stuff. need more girls that are lively like eunae, yeah!! btw you rock that eyeliner girl #slay

jung soojung - trainee for one year

i think she’s the youngest but she seems to have the most mature vibe from the girls, she’s pretty bland and boring though. i think she was a lot better on the mgas than now, seems like she’s just pulling through. she’s got a great voice, not going to lie and she can dance just fine but there’s something off about her. the ice princess isn’t doing so well.. so far. she shone brighter a year ago but it seems like these girls are have the extreme limelight than she is hMMM WORK ON YA VIBE GIRL, YOU NEED TO SING MORE THAN JUST BALLADS! ffs

kim seolhyun - trainee for one year

she’s.. on this show oh waOW WHAT A HOT MAMA! i think she was on a dating scandal with somebody named.. bacon? oh yeah i remember bacon, that old greasy bacon be doin’ something with this rare beauty named seolhyun. she’s really different from the other girls, she’s really good at what she does and is versatile but there’s something i was expecting more from miss seolhyun. i can’t say i’m too impressed but i’m not disappointed either. i think i have to see more from her, she has almost the same vibes from the mgas and bIGGG DADDDY NEEDS MORE FROM YA LIKE.. werk that body girl. seolhyun works out yee, you can tell. she’s got the bod, the face, and the visuals. hot damn

kim yubin - trainee for three years

she’s another rapper.. what happened to the other rappers? i feel like there should’ve been more rappers but there’s only like 2.. or 3? THERE’S SO MANY VOCALIST IN THIS SHOW AND they’re mostly quiet personalities hOLY HELL?? i heard she’s been in many scandals.. damn these rappers don’t joke mang. they’re pretty headass, so cool!! suspicious and scandalous just makes everything interesting. she has the personality of queen b, but i think i’ve expected more from yubin than you know.. what she does cause she is a triple threat for a reason. at least, from what i’ve heard? am i missing out on something? ALSO I’M DIGGING THAT TAN GIRL YOU GOOO!!

lee jieun (jazz) - trainee for two years, four months 

SNDFOISNFOISDNF!@#$%#^% SO JISUB YOU COW HOW DID THE BEST DANCER OF THE SHOW GET ELIMINATED? she’s one of royal’s gemstones!! are you flippin’ serious you whoohaA? i’m so mad!! this girl doesn’t deserve to be treated like this. seriously, she was complimented so much and only to be eliminated and walk away? i’M CRYING ON MY TOMBSTONE, i can’t take this no not my heart.. JAZZ WHY?! 

lee jihyun - trainee for three years

wow.. jisub are you saying jihyun is predictable? okay um.. hold on, give her voice some praise more than you’re putting her down. she’s been loyal to royal and you’re just going to treat her out like that? come on man.. you’re not fair towards these girls at all. you sleep on some of these girls and you neeDA STOP THAT. istg mnet’s new cow is you!! jihyun has amazing technique and beautiful vocal prowess. it looks like if she was to ever debut, she’d be the leader despite how you say she’s predictable with her performances. okay, for three years you’ve had her, why don’t you cherish her more? >> 

lee soohyun - trainee for two years 

she’s definitely cute but her looks apparently don’t match your regular idol type.. i think that’s the sweetest thing about her, she’s unique and not just some plastic surgery butchered-beauty. i’m glad she’s the way she is, she’s a sweethEART AHH YOU REMIND ME OF MULAN WHEN SHE WAS A LITTLE GIRL!! my heart is melted she’s too sweet *sniffle sniffle* her voice sounds lovely too!

manoban lalisa (lisa) - trainee for eight months

jisub says that this girl doesn’t have all-rounded abilities and that she doesn’t do what she does precisely.. well he’s wrong, i think she’s one of the most hard-working girls out there and she deserves more credit than what gee-sub gives her. lisa, you deserve to shine bright for who and what you are!! keep up that charisma girl, you’re more than just a pretty face as he says! if she was put in a girl group, she’d have the greatest variety personality.. like she just appeals the audience so much.

nam dawon - trainee for one year

oo.. another quiet girl? she seems really quiet but like.. she’s just there? i wish i got to see more of her. not gonna lie but she has a pretty voice but like soojung, she just seems too quiet beyond belief. she’s shy and there’s nothing wrong with that bUT I WISH THESE VOCALISTS were a little more out there!! like.. she’s a sweetheart but we need spicy fire on the show. i love her technique, she seems like a very strong singer.

park chaeyoung - trainee for eight months

i’d have to say that rose is like a rose, beautiful and one of my favourite flowers! i remember the days scrollin’ through her instagram and twitter (okay i’m kind of a stalker) AND SHE HAD THIS BEAUTIFUL ORANGE HAIR THAT WAS LIKE A FIREY BREATHING DRAGON! rose has earned her place as one of my favourites. i can’t wait for her to play the guitar and sing! her voice is unique and what’s even more awesome is she’s from australia! ooo dat accent got me like #waowgirl

yang jiwon - trainee for three years

she’s been training for so long and hasn’t debuted yet? was she in trc’s dungeon for the longest time ever? i’m not going to label these girls as “backstabbers” but some of them have been training so long with high hopes and dreams, only to be let-down by their company. yo this girl is one of the hottest, along with seolhyun. she might not be the best vocalist, but i can’t put ma finger on it, she’s has something special about her! we’ll just have to see it! 

stay tuned for more mushu reviews for episode.. 4! I’M OUT AND REMEMBER THIS SO JISUB, GET ROSE, SOOHYUN, ELLY, JIHYUN OR ANYONE ELSE I LOVE OUT OF THE SHOW, YOUS THE nEW COW OF MNET!! ya stupid piece of cow!!

so jiSEUB i AM YOUR..