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Chapter 1 - The arrival

Interior Scene: The Main Hall

Inside, the idols gather in the grand living room. Aya Norito stands near the fireplace, radiating effortless charm as she greets everyone with a warm smile. Tsar Russia leans against the far wall, his piercing gaze sweeping the room like a predator surveying its territory. Regina Scarlet, already in workout gear, is doing stretches in a corner.

Soren walks in last, dragging his suitcase behind him. His posture is relaxed, but his eyes flicker with subtle curiosity, taking in the competition.

Aya: (turning to Soren) "You must be Soren Asha! I've heard so much about you. Welcome!"

Soren pauses, slightly caught off guard by her brightness. He scratches the back of his head.

Soren: "Uh, yeah. Thanks."

---

First Conflict: Room Assignments

The idols are given a brief tour of the mansion, culminating in the winged hallways. A housekeeper explains the lodging system: "Each side has private rooms, but shared hallways connect everyone. Remember, the house rules discourage crossing into each other's wings after hours."

Tsar Russia smirks, leaning in toward Soren.

Tsar Russia: "Guess that means no sneaking over to visit the ladies, eh?"

Soren raises an eyebrow but doesn't rise to the bait.

Soren: "Why sneak when they'll probably come to me?"

Tsar's smirk falters for half a second. Aya, overhearing, suppresses a giggle. Regina rolls her eyes.

---

The First Encounter: Soren and Aya

Later that evening, Soren finds himself wandering into the shared living space, seeking a quiet spot to sketch. Aya sits on the couch, humming softly as she jots down lyrics in a notebook.

Soren pauses in the doorway, watching her for a moment. There's an otherworldly quality to her voice, even in its hum.

Aya: (looking up) "Oh, hey! Couldn't sleep?"

Soren: "Something like that." (He gestures to her notebook.) "What about you?"

Aya: "Just working on a new song. Want to hear it?"

Soren hesitates but nods. Aya sings a few lines, her voice filling the room with a warmth that seems to wrap around him. When she finishes, she tilts her head, waiting for his reaction.

Soren: (shrugging) "Not bad."

Aya: (laughing) "Not bad? That's all?"

Soren: "Well, it's missing something."

Aya: "Oh? And what's that?"

Soren walks over, pulling a pencil and scrap of paper from his pocket. He sketches a quick melody line, handing it to her.

Soren: "Try this."

Aya looks at the paper, then at him, surprised.

Aya: "You're full of surprises, aren't you?"

Soren: (grinning lazily) "Don't get used to it."

---

Final Scene: First Night Drama

As the idols settle in for the night, whispers echo through the halls. Tsar Russia stands outside Soren's door, arms crossed, a dangerous glint in his eye. Regina watches from her own doorway, clearly intrigued.

Inside his room, Soren lies sprawled on his bed, staring at the ceiling. His phone buzzes—a message from Aya:

Aya (text): "Thanks for the melody. Let's make something amazing tomorrow!"

Soren smirks to himself, tossing the phone aside.

Soren: "Day one, and I'm already in too deep."

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