From Thug to Idol: Transmigrating to a Survival Show Chapter 1041: To DAWN

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Previously on From Thug to Idol: Transmigrating to a Survival Show...
The members of DAWN participate in a chaotic, lighthearted interview that forces them to interact with a group of lively kittens. Amidst the humorous struggle of managing the animals, the group reflects on their journey from uncertainty to international success. When asked about the secret to their growth, June deflects the credit, attributing their achievements to their authenticity and commitment to their craft rather than manufactured appeal.
The kittens had since settled down. Recognizing that this interview promised to be a lengthy affair, they had comfortably nested themselves in the laps of the handsome idols. It seemed that regardless of the species, DAWN possessed an inherent charm that drew in new fans with ease. With that distraction aside, the session continued, and the members replied with lighthearted camaraderie. What is the dynamic like in your group chat? Jisung spoke first, leaning on his folded arms with a weary sigh. It is total chaos. That is honestly the only way to sum it up. Casper gave a knowing chuckle and nodded. He is right. Most of the time, the conversation is dominated by myself, Jisung, and Akira. Akira raised his hand as if he were back in a classroom. Guilty as charged. Jisung smiled. Jaeyong and Sehun serve as our anchors. If the rest of us are bickering over something trivial, they step in to keep the peace. However, they are also the ones who will leave us on read when they are caught up in their own schedules. Do not forget Zeth, Casper interjected, glancing at the self-absorbed member who was absentmindedly petting his kitten. He rarely speaks, but when he does, he sends wall-to-wall text. It is akin to reading a short story. Zeth merely shrugged, entirely unperturbed by the mockery. I just wish to ensure my messages are thorough. And then we have Ren, Jisung continued. Officially serving as our group hall monitor. Ren rolled his eyes but did not bother to refute the label. Someone has to make sure you three do not derail the entire conversation every few minutes. The collective laughter of the group rang out, and soon every gaze drifted toward June. Zeth was the first to chime in. And what about June? He is basically a ghost. He never responds! June arched an eyebrow, offering a mock expression of exasperation. That is simply because the lot of you are far too noisy. Akira erupted into laughter. Did you see what we have to deal with? June let out a quiet sigh but chose not to pursue the debate. The connection between them was so organic that even the crew couldn't help but smile, already knowing this segment was destined to go viral. The interviewer smiled and pivoted to the next topic. If you could offer a message to your past selves, what would it be? Perhaps some words of wisdom? A brief silence fell over the room until Sehun, their eldest member, finally spoke. The others deferred to him, well aware of the arduous path he had walked to reach his status as an idol. It will get better, he said simply, casting a look at his companions. So, just hold on. Even when the world feels like it is closing in on you, take comfort in the fact that it will eventually be worth the struggle. The boys shared a soft smile toward Sehun. Akira then sniffled in a dramatic fashion, shattering the solemn atmosphere. Why does that make me want to cry? Seriously, Jaeyong added, though his tone was noticeably more sincere than Akira's. Sehun, you really did a great job with that answer. Oh, give it a rest, Sehun laughed. Stop turning my personal journey into a soap opera. Ripples of laughter flowed through the group, successfully easing the tension. Next question, the interviewer said with a grin, visibly enjoying the vibrant energy in the room. What are your thoughts on... ships? For a moment, the members stared at one another, utterly bewildered. June frowned, breaking the stillness. Ships? Like the Titanic? The crew broke into laughter, and the interviewer quickly elaborated. No, no. I am talking about shipping. You know, when fans pair you up with one another. Realization finally dawned on them, and they exchanged amused, surprised glances. Wow, Jisung muttered, running a hand through his locks. That is a bold question. I don't think I have ever seen that addressed in the K-pop industry, Jaeyong noted, scratching the back of his neck. It was a notoriously sensitive topic, leaving them uncertain about how to respond. However, June answered without a shred of hesitation. It is simply part of this career, he admitted. You cannot really separate it from the fandom culture; that is just the reality of the situation. The others nodded in agreement as he pressed on. It can get a bit strange at times given we are real people, but I recognize that most fans do not act with malicious intent. They are just trying to have fun. Even so, I would personally prefer not to see it on my timeline. Then again, we barely have a moment to check our social media anyway, so... Jaeyong chuckled. True. We are far too occupied for that. The interviewer smiled, clearly impressed by their unfiltered honesty. Fair enough. Moving on: Do you see yourselves continuing as DAWN in the future? Ren spoke up, resting his chin on his fingers. Honestly, the group name is secondary. What truly matters is that we remain together. If we stay as a unit, everything else will eventually fall into place. Whether we are EVE or DAWN, my only goal is to perform with these guys for as long as possible. Akira nodded his head in agreement. He is right. I am just grateful we managed to break free from our previous contract. Otherwise, we would have been stuck under our old labels and only permitted to perform as a team for a mere three years. The others let out a collective sigh reflecting on their past hardships, though their bond was now stronger than ever. And lastly, the interviewer said, her voice softening. What would you say to your future selves? The boys took turns, their answers spanning from lighthearted quips to heartfelt wishes. Do not mess this up, Jisung said with a sharp grin. I am serious, do not. Keep growing, Ren added concisely. You are doing great! Just try not to take everything so heavily, Akira suggested. Hmm, is Luther still alive? Casper wondered aloud. He certainly should be. I hope you continue to lead this team without ever complaining, Jaeyong remarked. Look after your fellow members. They are your most valuable treasure, Sehun offered. Stay healthy, Zeth stated, receiving nods of approval all around. And stay handsome, he quickly tacked on, causing the others to groan. Finally, the turn came for June. A hush descended over the room as he locked eyes with the camera lens. Are you doing well? he began quietly. I truly hope you are. Do not lose your passion, he continued. No matter how difficult things become, and no matter how much the world fluctuates around you, I hope you are still standing. Still fighting, still dreaming. His tone turned gentle, and he glanced at the kittens for a second before refocusing on the camera. And never forget the reason you started. For the music. For the fans. And for yourself. Just... do not lose that spark. The ensuing silence held a comforting weight. The members shared a series of subtle glances, fully aware that they would look back upon this moment in the coming year.