Lycoris (1)
Currently, the perception of vampires in Korea isn’t as bad as it used to be.
Since Heinz began to assert his power, various policies have finally started to bear fruit.
Thanks to their influence, which has nearly taken over the underworld, nighttime streets have become much safer, and the frequency of villain terror attacks that used to occur at any time has noticeably decreased.
Citizens were certainly aware of who was responsible for this tranquility.
‘Moreover, the blood alliance isn’t merely a vigilante group.’
Various measures were naturally adopted to integrate with society.
One of them was providing ample funds in exchange for blood to those in urgent need of money.
This approach not only penetrated the daily lives of citizens but also served as a lifeline for those on the brink.
‘Of course, if they drain blood often, they’ll feel weakened for a while, so it’s not an option they can use frequently.’
Still, it was far better than falling into the abyss by taking high-interest loans.
To build a clean image and trust, performing the procedure in a hospital-like atmosphere rather than a gloomy room greatly reduced discomfort.
“It’s all thanks to the Lord that we can stand under the sunlight like this. Without him, we would still be hiding, watching out for the Guardians and the Special Abilities Management Bureau.”
The existence of ‘Phantom,’ who single-handedly conquered the underworld of Europe and rose to the top tier, was sufficient to act as a brake against those trying to check the blood alliance.
Additionally, the bribe offensive via Howard Industries and the active relief efforts during the Seoul terror incident played major roles in restoring order…
‘After all that, it’s no wonder public perception has changed.’
Unlike before, when they were treated as criminals to be captured on sight, there was now a tendency to observe them as rehabilitated individuals, which wasn’t surprising.
Of course, they had to keep a hawk’s eye to immediately impose sanctions if any foolishness occurred.
‘On the other hand, the perception abroad…’
Naturally, it was still not very good, perhaps because they didn’t witness any direct benefits.
In fact, there were conspiracy theories suggesting that even their actions in Korea must have ulterior motives.
One could tell simply by recalling the foreign news after Phantom’s journey to Europe.
Most headlines were based on a negative tone.
While there were some neutral commentaries, they were far outnumbered by harsh criticisms.
The idea of debuting handsome vampires in Korea’s entertainment industry, where negative images are less prevalent, to create familiarity stemmed from this.
‘That’s definitely not a bad idea.’
If the vampires, once seen as figures of fear, appear on TV dancing and singing, showcasing that they are merely ‘slightly different humans,’ wouldn’t it help improve their image?
And such an awareness would naturally seep into the world through media like the internet.
There would be numerous obstacles to overcome in the process, but even if it failed along the way, it wouldn’t lead to significant losses.
‘…But is the blood alliance really okay to proceed like this?’
For an underworld organization, stepping into global magical equipment trade and the entertainment industry is an extraordinary expansion.
This is not just a matter of octopus tentacle growth.
“Yeah, I’ve entrusted that matter to you, so do as you wish. So, how is the work progressing?”
Since I’ve already given permission, I planned to keep an eye on the development until the end.
Perhaps this could lead to absorbing vampires from other countries.
“This is a big challenge for us as well. After all, it’s crucial to get the first step right.”
Even though it was relatively better than other countries, that was merely relative.
With many still holding negative perceptions, it was essential to make a strong first impression aiming for popularity.
“And after all, doesn’t popularity mean girl groups?!”
With wide eyes shining confidently, Jin So-Ran exclaimed.
Her entire demeanor overflowed with confidence.
Hmm… “Girl groups, huh.”
Heinz nodded while stroking his chin.
Of course, her assertion was heavily influenced by her past as an idol trainee, but it was certainly somewhat persuasive.
“Right now, we’re selecting members through strict evaluations and have completed intense training up to the final recording. I’m sure the Lord will be satisfied.”
With her shoulders confidently squared, Jin So-Ran spoke with enthusiasm.
She personally oversaw the selection of members and meticulously checked various aspects.
Among the volunteers who wanted to step into the spotlight, she selected five members based on their looks, talent, articulation, singing ability, and sense.
“Mental strength was also crucial. Initially, they’re bound to receive a lot of criticism, and the chances of failure are significant.”
Having unique and attractive appearances was just the basics.
The strength and agility to perform near acrobatic choreography, enhanced by regeneration power, and explosive vocal power that can break through physical limits.
Jin So-Ran confidently claimed that an unprecedented ultimate idol would be born.
“Oh? If you’re saying that, I’m excited.”
There have been awakened ones who entered showbiz, but vampires are inherently specialized in captivating others.
If they truly intend to showcase their talents, who could possibly stand against them?
While he marveled, her words continued.
“There’s still cover and music video production, along with promotion left, so we have a lot to do, but if we mobilize the blood alliance’s full power, it won’t take long. Oh! Would you like to meet our kids directly? They should be practicing in the studio by now.”
Jin So-Ran looked more spirited than ever.
Heinz gave a peculiar expression at the sight.
Although she was usually lively, he had never seen her this excited.
Unknowingly, he blurted out a comment.
“Don’t you have any thought about debuting yourself? I’ve heard there’s been increased interest since the Howard Industries showcase.”
“Me?”
She blinked several times at his words.
Then, she looked around, as if she had never considered it, and awkwardly smiled.
“…Um, I’m not particularly inclined. If it were the past, maybe, but I’m satisfied with my current lifestyle.”
Shrugging her shoulders casually, Jin So-Ran spoke.
Her attitude certainly showed no lingering feelings about it.
“Besides, I already have so much to do; if I add idol activities on top…”
“I might really die from overworking, you know?”
She pouted, but obviously, it was just a jest.
For Jin So-Ran, who had been granted “Refined Blood Essence” continuously by Heinz, a pureblood vampire, reaching level 8, taking a break didn’t hold much significance.
Of course, taking on additional work would inevitably reduce her working hours.
“I’m also doing internet broadcasts occasionally. That seems just right for me.”
Jin So-Ran continued, saying it would be meaningful to see the idol she raised reach the top as she beamed.
‘Well, if she thinks that way…’
Heinz didn’t find it disappointing either.
After all, if he had raised her as a prospective leader but couldn’t perform her duties properly because of idol activities, it would be a problem for him too.
“Alright, then let’s look at the members first. By the way, have you already decided on a group name?”
“Ah! I found something fitting!”
Leading the way to the agency building with the practice studio, Jin So-Ran tapped on her smartphone.
Then she displayed a bright red flower picture on the screen and handed it to him.
A flower with wrinkled petals curled backward at the end of a long stem, extending its stamen upward, creating a bizarre impression.
“Lycoris! Doesn’t it sound great?”
*
Lycoris (Lycoris).
A name derived from the academic name of the red spider lily (Lycoris radiata), which is also called the ‘Flower of Sorrow’ and ‘Death.’
While known for its negative images, such as ‘sad memories’ and ‘death,’ it also carries positive meanings like ‘passion’ and ‘rebirth.’
‘…Doesn’t that pair with our current situation? Just like the negative image embedded in us, and our desperate struggle to wash it away and be reborn.’
Nahee, who was selected as a member after fierce competition, gulped nervously.
She had just showcased her dance and song with the other members.
Suddenly, in front of stunning Lord Heinz, who followed Jin So-Ran into the practice room!
‘Ugh, I feel like I’m suffocating. Did I do well? Their expressions don’t seem that great… Did I mess up? What’s wrong? What didn’t they like?’
While the five female vampires, including her, stood stiffly, Heinz, with arms crossed, tilted his head toward Jin So-Ran with a serious expression.
Then, he silently turned and swiftly left the practice room.
Leaving her and the others frozen!
‘Ahhh! That was definitely an out!’
Eyes tightly shut, Nahee’s mind was racing with thoughts.
This wasn’t her first time seeing Heinz.
In fact, she had met him often enough that it was hard to believe she was just a junior vampire.
Not long ago, she worked as an office assistant at the office of Heterosis, and going even further back, she was the moderate vampire who faced him right after Jin So-Ran.
Judging from her experiences, that response clearly indicated something displeased him.
‘Ugh, I practiced really hard to avoid causing trouble for my sister.’
Like her other colleagues, she had been giving her all without proper sleep to hone her skills.
She didn’t want to hear any rumors suggesting Jin So-Ran picked her because of connections.
Of course, no one would dare speak ill of her in an organization with her being its second-in-command, but just the possibility of such notions bothered her.
So she wanted to proudly prove she was chosen for her skills, not connections…
“Haah.”
“Hoo.”
Her sigh escaped, and many more sighs followed suit.
Her stiff companions standing beside her shared the same thoughts.
It seemed they were all on the same wavelength.
They exchanged bittersweet smiles as they stared into each other’s eyes.
Somehow, they sensed that their upcoming debut might not be an easy path.
*
Before watching the members’ performance in the practice room, Jin So-Ran had roughly explained.
She mentioned that they had hired a famous composer who had made several hit songs and paid a hefty sum for the song.
Moreover, the talents of the members were exceptional without a doubt.
The raw and dynamic choreography, which seemed almost impossible to pull off live, alongside their superhuman lung capacity and beautiful tones of voice, made it clear why Jin So-Ran had chosen them.
However, there was one problem…
“…I don’t like it.”
After a brief respite, Heinz, who had been lying in the shade like usual, felt that he was far from satisfied.
‘The song and the vocalist’s voice don’t mesh at all? The song completely stifles the singer’s charm and personality, trying to shine on its own. It’s not so much a person singing as it is the song using the person as an instrument.’
While the song itself was fairly decent, his sensitive instincts immediately picked up that it had not been tailored for those five voices.
The song hadn’t been fitted to the people; instead, the people seemed forced to adapt to an already written song.
Such a song could carry neither emotion nor philosophy.
‘And they’re going to debut with that?’
Dare to perform with such a song that exudes a mass-produced K-pop vibe without showcasing the true charm of artists?
As an elf who sought perfect harmony between songs, self, and surrounding environments, he found such behavior unacceptable.
This was no minor issue for his pride.
“Hey, Harris! You’re really here today… Eeek!”
At that moment, Shapiron approached, gracefully carrying a snack basket, only to freeze as if witnessing something unbelievable.
She covered her mouth with one hand and let out a groan-like exclamation.
“Harris is keeping his eyes wide open…?”
Unlike her usual half-lidded gaze, he seemed to be glaring at something.
In the star-shaped pupils, a brilliant flame flickered ominously.
Glugg…
Unknowingly, she swallowed hard.
Then, with her cheeks slightly flushed, she glanced at him repeatedly, imprinting that sight deep in her memory.
Such a passionate side of him was undoubtedly a rare sight!
“Shapiron.”
“Yes, yes?!”
After a while, Harris abruptly stood up.
Then, he shot her a strong gaze, startling her before speaking heavily.
“I have urgent matters to attend to. Can you help me for a moment?”
“…Yes!”
He walked briskly with her in tow, thinking of everything ahead, knowing there wasn’t time to waste.
‘It can’t be released in such a state for my first debut song, coming from beneath my command.’
With the current state of the song, they might achieve satisfactory results within Korea.
After all, Korea was a stronghold for the blood alliance, and the song itself had been chosen to resonate with the Korean market.
However, he couldn’t be satisfied with that level.
‘No way, I won’t settle for anything less.’
He had already seen their potential for growth.
Clearly, Jin So-Ran had an eye for talent, as they held remarkable potential.
Given the right song, they could showcase their charm at any moment.
‘If we are going to do it, let’s do it right! Otherwise, how long would it take to conquer the Korean market and reach abroad?’
There was no need to distinctly target the Korean market or the overseas market.
A good song shines anytime, anywhere.
To overturn all negative perceptions, but also to be able to unleash their full potential.
If only they could present a song that could showcase overwhelming charm that would silence any opposition—
‘If there isn’t one, then let’s create it.’
Rarely did Harris’s pupils sparkle like starlight.
So, gathering all the friends he had ties with, including Shapiron, he began working on a piece he could find satisfaction in.
Just about a day later in the time of Auterica, it was completed.
