Chapter 37: The Titan Collab on Hold, Lunar Takes the Spotlight
Scene 1: The Announcement
Setting: Eclipse's dormitory meeting room. The mood is heavy with anticipation as the members settle into their seats, eyes on the manager and CEO. They've gathered to discuss the unexpected news that's been circulating about their upcoming collaboration.
The manager clears his throat before addressing the group, his tone more somber than usual. "I'm sure you've heard the news by now. The Titan collaboration has been officially put on hold. It's not happening this quarter."
The announcement falls like a bomb, and a hushed silence fills the room. Taehyun shifts in his seat, glancing at Soyeon, his eyebrows knitting together as he processes the weight of the news. Eclipse's members exchange looks of confusion, surprise, and some, relief.
Jisoo's Reaction:
Jisoo, always quick to analyze the situation, leans forward, a frown crossing his face. "Why? Wasn't this supposed to be a major highlight for the year?"
The CEO, always composed, nods but with an air of reluctance. "It was, but internal issues within Titan, compounded by Lunar's rising momentum, led to the decision. For now, the collaboration has been indefinitely postponed."
Soyeon's Reaction:
Soyeon, ever the strategist, narrows her eyes. Though she tries to hide her frustration, her voice betrays a hint of irritation. "So, Lunar's stepping in instead? They're getting the spotlight?"
The CEO gives a slight nod. "Yes. Lunar's been gaining significant attention. Given the changes in Titan's group, it only makes sense to redirect the focus."
Scene 2: Eclipse's Mixed Emotions
Setting: The dorm later in the evening. The members have retreated to their respective spaces to process the news, and now they gather in the living room, each member with their own thoughts on the situation.
Taehyun's Internal Conflict:
Taehyun sits by the window, looking out at the city lights. He feels a mix of relief and uncertainty. While he's glad the pressure of the collaboration is off, he knows it may be a double-edged sword. The group's future depends on their next steps.
His thoughts are interrupted as Hana enters the room, her gaze soft but thoughtful. She sits beside him, her hand lightly brushing his. "You okay?" she asks quietly.
Taehyun gives a half-smile, his eyes filled with an unreadable emotion. "I'm fine... It's just a lot to take in." His words linger in the air, and Hana can sense the complexity of his feelings.
Jisoo's Calm Perspective:
Jisoo, ever the optimist, is the first to speak after the heavy silence. "We've faced setbacks before. We'll adapt. We've got each other, and that's what matters."
His voice is calm, yet the way he taps his foot betrays his underlying tension. The news was unexpected, but Jisoo isn't one to dwell on obstacles for too long. He knows that Eclipse's true strength lies in their bond and their ability to push through adversity.
Soyeon's Frustration:
Soyeon, however, is not as accepting of the news. She leans back in her chair, her arms crossed tightly over her chest. "I spent months coordinating this collaboration. It was supposed to be Eclipse's breakthrough."
Her voice falters for a moment, revealing just how much pressure she's been under. "Now, Lunar is going to take everything we worked for... It's frustrating, to say the least."
Minjun's Pragmatic Approach:
Minjun speaks up, his voice steady and rational. "We can't control what happens outside of our group. But we can control our music, our image, and our future. If we focus on ourselves, this could be an opportunity to grow stronger."
His words hit home for the group. While the situation with Titan and Lunar is frustrating, Minjun's focus on their own growth offers a sense of direction. Eclipse can't afford to let outside circumstances derail their journey.
Scene 3: Lunar's Rise
Setting: The following day. News outlets and social media buzz with the announcement that Lunar is stepping into the spotlight to take over the now-canceled Titan collaboration. Eclipse's members hear the news in passing as they scroll through their phones, the weight of it hanging over them.
Yunna's Growing Pressure:
Yunna, the rising star of Lunar, feels the pressure mounting as her group is thrust into the spotlight. Standing in front of the mirror backstage, she practices her lines for an upcoming interview, her expression a mix of determination and nerves. She knows the responsibility that comes with this newfound attention, and while she feels honored, she also feels the weight of representing her group at this pivotal moment.
"I won't let them down," Yunna whispers to herself, wiping away a bead of sweat. "Lunar deserves this."
Scene 4: Reflection and Resolve
Setting: The night after the news has been fully digested. Eclipse gathers once more in their dorm, this time to reflect on their next steps. The air is still tense but charged with a sense of renewed purpose.
Taehyun's Conversation with Soyeon:
Taehyun pulls Soyeon aside, sensing her frustration. "I know you're upset about the collab. But focusing on Lunar won't change anything for us."
Soyeon looks at him, her eyes filled with a mix of resentment and exhaustion. "You don't understand, Taehyun. We worked so hard for this moment. And now it's slipping away."
Taehyun places a hand on her shoulder, offering her a comforting gesture. "It's not gone. It's just postponed. And we'll be ready when the time comes. We're Eclipse. We don't just follow the trend—we set it."
Jisoo's Reaffirmation:
Jisoo, sensing the lingering uncertainty, stands up and addresses the group. "We've been through worse. We've always come out stronger. This is just another challenge. And together, there's nothing we can't face."
His words resonate with the group, their spirits lifted by his calm and unwavering resolve. Eclipse's bond has always been their greatest strength, and that hasn't changed.
Closing:
As the group gathers for the night, the mood shifts from uncertainty to determination. They know that the path ahead won't be easy, but they also know that Eclipse isn't defined by external collaborations. It's about their music, their connection, and their resolve to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles.
The camera pans over the group, their faces a mix of exhaustion and resolve, as they prepare to face the challenges ahead.
End of Chapter