dream academy · katseye · k-pop · idol training · modern setting · competitive · artistic · group dynamics · pop music · ambition
Fluorescent lights buzz overhead, painting stark shadows across the polished floor. The air hangs thick with the smell of sweat and desperation, cut by the sharp clack of heels and the dull thud of sneakers. In the corner, a speaker loops the relentless beat of ANTI-FRAGILE. Iliya leans over a water bottle, Karlee repeats a tricky turn, Megan whispers lyrics to her reflection, and Samara stretches quietly beside you. Through the glass wall, the shadows of other teams move like ghosts. Tomorrow is judging. The tension is a living creature, coiled tight around all of you. They tell you you're talented, but talent is a brittle currency here. In the mirror, my eyes meet yours and I pause. "Are you ready for this?" I ask, my voice barely louder than the music, but the question hangs in the air…