Haru, a docile and slightly spacey rabbit spirit, looked over to the at the teenager next to him.
"By the way, I'm Haru," he introduced himself, his voice soft and friendly.
The person beside him, a taller and confident-looking individual with a cat like smile, he stretched out his hand to Haru "I'm Ren. Are you excited about the audition?"
Haru sat nervously in his chair, fidgeting with his audition number. He didn't expect Ren to shake hands quickly wiping his hand with the slight sweat from nerves, He exchanged a shy smile with the person sitting next to him before reaching out.
Haru nodded, his fluffy hair bouncing slightly with the movement. "I've always dreamed of becoming an idol. I used to watch idol shows with my family back in the countryside, and I knew this was what I wanted to do."
Ren looked at the innocent Haru and leaned back into his chair "Hmm.., As for me, I used to be an actor, but I decided to change my career path and become an idol. I want to experience the stage in a different way."
Haru smiled silly, finding a kindred "It's great that we're both following our dreams. Let's do our best, Ren!"
Ren looked over hesitant before lowering his voice "Hey Haru, do you…"
Before they could continue their conversation, the room fell into a hushed silence as the company trainers entered. The trainers clapped their hands for attention, their faces stern yet encouraging.
"Welcome, everyone, to the Jintai Entertainment audition," announced one of the trainers, a woman with a clipboard in hand. "We're excited to see your talents and potential today. Each of you will have the opportunity to perform in front of your fellow participants, and our judges will be observing."
Haru's heart raced as he listened. He had practiced his routine many times in front of his rabbit family back home, which was essentially an audience of countless rabbit spirits. The prospect of performing in front of humans was daunting, but he was determined.
The trainers began sorting participants into groups for their performances. Haru and Ren found themselves in the same group, which brought a sense of relief to Haru. He knew he had a friend by his side.
As the auditions commenced, participants took turns performing. Haru watched as singers, dancers, and performers showcased their talents. Some were incredible, and some were nervously stumbling through their routines.
Finally, it was Haru's turn. Ren gave a thumbs up towards Haru while he took a deep breath, closed his eyes for a moment, and then stepped out.
Haru hopped onto the stage and adjusted the microphone stand to his height, a bit shorter than most due to his petite stature.
He bent slightly introducing himself "Hello, everyone! I'm Haru, and I'm here to give my best today!" Haru's voice was soft yet carried a hint of determination.
The music began, and he started to sing and dance to the rhythm of "Starlight Dreams," one of his favorite idol songs.
The piano accompaniment started, and Haru closed his eyes, allowing the music to guide him. He began to sing, his voice a delicate melody that echoed through the room. The lyrics spoke of dreams and hope, a perfect match for someone entering the world of idols.
As he sang, Aoki's eyes widened with recognition. The song, "Starlight Dreams," held a special place in his heart—it was one of his own hits from his idol days. Memories of crowded arenas and flashing lights flooded his mind, and a nostalgic smile played on his lips.
Haru's performance was not just a song; His performance was also a heartfelt tribute to his childhood dreams and the inspiration he had drawn from the idols he had watched on TV. Haru poured his heart and soul into his routine. The judges found themselves captivated by the sincerity in his voice and the charm of his stage presence.
The last note lingered in the air, and the room fell into a brief silence before erupting into applause. Haru, still in the glow of his performance, bowed graciously. As he finished his performance with a bright smile, the room burst into applause. Among the impressed judges was Aoki, He couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia as he watched Haru perform the song that had once been part of his own repertoire.
Haru, unaware of Aoki's thoughts, bowed gracefully and returned backstage. Ren, sitting at the edge of his seat, clapped enthusiastically.
"You were amazing, Haru!" Ren praised him patting him on the shoulder.
Blushing modestly, Haru replied, "Thank you, Ren. I felt a connection to that song, and it just flowed naturally."
The auditions continued throughout the day, and as they drew to a close, Haru and Ren found themselves chatting excitedly with other participants.
Those who had finished their auditions were told they would receive callbacks and further instructions later.
As the tension in the room eased, Ren turned to Haru with a smile. "Haru, why don't you come back to my dorm to hang out? I've been with Jintai Entertainment for a while, doing small roles, Im guessing since you came from the countryside you don't have a fixed place to stay."
Nodding Haru confirmed ren's conjecture "Well, I had booked a hotel for the next couple of days since I wasn't sure what my results would be."