Jang Chung Arena
Outside the bustling Jang Chung Arena, an aura of excitement surge among the crowds of Valorant fans eagerly awaiting entry. Crowds of fans clad in their favorite Valorant team jerseys mingling with amazing cosplayers, bringing their favorite agents to life with meticulous detail. Conversations hummed with anticipation as castors were stationed outside dissecting strategies and recounting memorable plays from past tournaments. Laughter and cheers occasionally erupted, punctuating the atmosphere as supporters bonded over their shared passion for the game. Lines snaked around the block, and with the doors to the arena looming ahead, the buzz of anticipation only intensified, promising an unforgettable day of competition and camaraderie inside.
On the road to the stadium, A black minivan is seen driving by the arena towards a VIP entrance at the other side of the stadium, inside of said van is the group Le Sserafim.
“Wow so many people” said Chaewon in awe seeing the long-crowded lines waiting to enter the stadium and purchase food from food trucks.
Nodding in agreement, they continue to stare out the window watching the crowd of fans outside of the arena, which seem significantly larger than the crowd at the Overwatch Event. Eunchae leans against the door gazing out the tinted window, trying to count all the enthusiastic fans gathered. Looking up at the large arena, she notices two large pink and red banners adorned with symbols in the center hanging off the arena.
Confused, she asks, "Why are there two banners displayed on the arena?"
"The banners represent the teams competing today for the trophy. I think the blue and pink one is Paper Rex, a team from Singapore, and the red one is Sentinels, a team from America." explains Sakura as she knits another hat for the 1000th time.
“There’s a lot more red jerseys than pink.” Comments Kazuha seeing that roughly 60% of the crowd is wearing a Sentinels Jersey.
“They are very popular worldwide and apparently they are about to complete the Golden Road.” Said Sakura
“Golden Road?” questions Eunchae
“It's when a team wins all the major tournaments throughout the year.” Explains Sakura
Eunchae nods her head in understanding, as she continues to stare out the window in awe till they arrive at the private entrance. Exiting the van, the girls, dressed comfortably in sweatshirts and shorts, are swiftly escorted by security into the venue. Waving at the fans who are there waiting for them they are then greeted by a female Riot employee, wearing a riot t-shirt and a pair of jeans, waiting for them. She smiles and bows to the girls, which the girls reciprocate.
“Hello, Les Serafim. I hope you're all doing well. My name is Amanda, and I'll be your guide throughout the day.” Introduces Amanda in Korean.
“Hello Amanda, it’s nice to meet you.” Chaewon replies with a small smile.
“Let's first take you all to your designated room where you can store your belongings in the provided lockers and then I’ll give you a tour and rundown of today's itinerary." said Amanda with a smile.
The girls nod in agreement and follow Amanda down the halls. As they walk through the busy halls, they engage in small talk with Amanda about the event and other topics.
“Excuse me Amanda, do you by any chance know who invited us to this event.” Asks Kazuha, this thought has been sitting at the back of her mind for the past months since the call from the manager.
“I indeed do know who requested you guys to be here.” Expose Amanda with a large smile.
“Who is it?” questions Yunjin as the girl starts to surround the poor employee trying to pry the information off her.
Amanda leans back anxiously seeing the girls surround her with curiosity and excitement expressions on their faces. “Sorry girls, as much as I want to say who. They request to stay anonymous.” Explains Amanda, causing their excitement to falter.
With a closed smile “But I can say that it’ll be a great surprise especially for one of you. Now here we are!” Says Amanda
Arriving at a door labeled "Le Sserafim," Amanda enters the pin code and enters through the door, with the girls following behind. Inside, they were pleasantly surprised to find a room much larger than any changing room they had seen before. There were three makeup stations, a large L-shaped couch with pillows and blankets facing a 75" flat-screen TV, a corner equipped with five PCs, a row of lockers, and most importantly, a large table in the middle filled with snacks and drinks. The girls were amazed by the amount of food there for them, causing Eunchae to immediately rush towards the snack table, grabbing a can of Pringles and jump onto the couch to munch on them.
"YAA, Eunchae!" Chaewon yells, rushing towards the youngest member, clearly intending to lecture her. Turning to the others, Amanda asks with a chuckle, "Does this always happen? I thought it only occurred on screen."
"Sigh, this happens all the time," sighs Yunjin, staring at the commotion in front of them.
As they chat and settle in, a sudden knock on the door catches their attention. Everyone turns towards it as another Riot employee peeks in.
"Hey Amanda, the other group is here. Should I let them in?" ask the employee.
Standing up, "They're here already? Sure, bring them in," replies Amanda.
Opening the door fully, it reveals a group of six familiar faces.
"Eh? IVE?" exclaims Le Sserafim in surprise.
"Chaewon-unnie!! Kura-unnie!!" screams two individuals as they rush towards said girls jumping and latching themselves onto the two girls knocking them to the ground. Giggling, they smoothed the two members tightly as the rest of the IVE girls, all in comfortable clothing, enter the room shaking their heads in embarrassment seeing their leader and member embarrassing them.
“Hello” greets the rest of the IVE girls towards Le Sserafim.
“Are you guys the group that will perform and play against us?” asks Kazuha remembering that another group is supposed to perform.
“Yup, we are just performing a couple songs and to play the game even though we don’t really know much about the game.” Gaeul replies as she sits down on the couch laying backwards with a comfy sigh.
“Same! We were invited by someone, but they are keeping it a secret.” Yunjin nudged towards Amanda who sheepishly smiled.
“Have you guys played the games much? We’ve only watched videos about it and tried playing a few games.” responds Kazuha as she takes a munch of the pringles from Eunchae.
“Yea and we suck, well except for me of course.” Said Eunchae with a smug smile filled with pringles and arrogance.
Le Sserafim sighs and nods in agreement, not even trying to argue. Every time they played the game, they ended up losing with negative KDA except for Eunchae.
“ Not much but don’t expect us to go down without a fight. Right girls!” rallies Yujin, sitting up properly and raising her fist in the air, looking at her band mates.
“YEA” responds the girls.
They all laugh and continue talking to each other about plans, pets, music and other things. These were one of the few moments where they could truly be themselves and express any pent-up frustration and thoughts without anyone judging them. Sometimes they get so wrapped up in their life as idols that they tend to forget about taking care of themselves. From training to performance to brand deals, they forget the feeling of being free and being themselves.
“Yujin-ah, how was your tour in America? Were you able to do anything fun?” asks Yunjin as she leans against Chaewon’s shoulders, staring at the girl sitting in front of her.
“Hmm, it was fun, although we weren’t able to go outside that much, but when we did get free time to ourselves without the cameras, we made sure to rewind and relax.” Replies Yujin
“That’s good! Were you able to visit time square?” Questions Yunjin
“Yes we were, tons of people were there when we visited.” Answers Yujin
“That’s time square for you. Crowded and filled with scammers but that’s New York.” Says Yunjin
“I watched your visit to the aquarium, and it really made me want to see all the sea turtles and penguins again.” joins Sakura
“ hehe, unnie also met someone there too.” Giggles Rei causing her eyes to crescent.
“YA don’t say that” shouts Yujin in complete fluster.
“ooohh did unnie get a boyfriend?” tease Eunchae with a smile.
“Ugh Nooo, he is not my boyfriend. UGHH.” Says Yujin, hand on her head as if she’s ripping her hair off in frustration causing the rest to laugh.
“What happened?” asked Chaewon, confused.
“It happened during the underwater tunnel where Yujin-unnie was talking about this big turtle that was laying on the ground. She kept going on about it, saying they are adorable and huge but there was this guy in front of her who scoffed and called the turtle ugly, and proceeded to say penguins are way better. She got so mad that she argued with him about sea turtles and penguins all the way to the end of the tunnel. She was so furious that we could practically see fumes coming out of her eyes. It was hilarious,” explains Liz, causing everyone to laugh at Yujin who is just sitting there arms cross mad remembering what happened.
“Not to mention the guy was H-O-T. Hot, I wanted to just give him my number right there.” added Wonyoung fanning herself, with the rest of the IVE girls nodding in agreement.
“Damn guys, was he that handsome? Were you able to get a photo of him.” Ask Yunjin, clearly intrigued.
“Unfortunately, no, but yes he is. You know, we are surrounded by idols, models and celebrities, but he blows all of them away. It's like he was sculpted personally by the hands of god.” Dreams Wonyoung as she visualizes the guy. “Damnit, If only I got his number” she curses
“Check yourself Wonyoung-ah and come back to reality. It’s not worth it.” Said Sakura
“Unnie, you don’t understand, he is just perfect. Our children would take over the world.” whines Wonyoung causing Sakura to flinch back at the comment.
“Don’t get ahead of yourself Wonyoung, I’m sure he would like someone sexy as me instead.” Says Gaeul
“Yah, I am sexy and Tall, you shortie.” Retorts Wonyoung
“Can you guys not? It’s disgusting plus He is SOOO annoying. Penguins? So basic and boring, with absolutely no personality.” grumbles Yujin.
“Unnie didn’t disagree with him being hot Tho.” tease Eunchae, catching Yujin off guard.
All the girls laugh at Yujin’s frustration. Luckily for her, Amanda steps in.
“Alright, girls. Get ready to go. We’ll be visiting a couple of the team members playing in the finals before we head to the stage.” Instruct Amanda.
Nodding in agreement, they all stand up and gather their things before following Amanda out of the dressing room. Walking briskly down the bustling halls, the girls continue to chat animatedly among themselves while observing the flurry of employees rushing around to their tasks. They finally arrive at their destination, a spacious conference room, where the muffle voices of people engaged in conversation could be heard from outside. Upon entering, they see a team of cameramen filming two players clad in blue and pink jerseys deep in discussion with another pair in red, who all turn to greet them as they enter the room. Amanda, leading the group, steps forward to start the introductions.
“Okay, girls. These four gentlemen here are players from the two Valorant teams competing for the trophy. In blue and pink jerseys, we have Jjing and Forsaken from Paper Rex.”
“Hi,” said Jjing shyly, offering a small wave.
“Annyeonghaseyo,” greets Forsaken with a smile and bow.
The girls return the greetings with bows before Amanda gestures towards the two players in red, who both bore a striking resemblance with their long hair and glasses.
“And these two are TenZ and JohnQT from Sentinels.”
“Hello,” nod JohnQT, acknowledging the group.
“Hello Lesserafim and IVE, My Fiancée and I are big fans of your music.” Greets TenZ with a smile
“Eh, fiancée?” the girls exclaim in surprise as they notice that TenZ seems to be around their age. The older members of the group silently grimace with a tinge of envy upon learning that someone their age has already found someone they love.
TenZ chuckles nervously at their reaction, scratching the back of his head. “Yeah, it’s still sinking in for me too.”
Yunjin couldn’t help but tease playfully, “Wow, getting married and competing in Valorant tournaments at your age? Impressive multi-tasking.”
TenZ smiles warmly at the banter, appreciating their light-hearted approach. “Thanks, yeah, it’s a lot to juggle but I’m lucky to have her support.”
“Okay, okay, now that introductions are done, let’s sign some jerseys and take some photos so the guys can get back to their teams,” Amanda suggests cheerfully.
After completing their objectives, the group continues chatting, this time focusing on the upcoming tournament. Sakura and Rei eagerly sought tips from Jjing, Forsaken, TenZ, and JohnQT about Valorant strategies and techniques.
As the conversation wound down, the staff informed the players that it was time to depart. Just before leaving, TenZ hesitated for a moment.
“Eunchae, do you perhaps have an older sibli—” TenZ began, only to be abruptly cut off by a sharp nudge in the stomach from JohnQT.
“Shut up, let’s go,” JohnQT interjects hastily, grabbing TenZ by the arm and steering him towards the door.
Confused, Eunchae turns towards her groupmates, wearing an expression of bewilderment. They exchange shrugs, equally unsure of what TenZ was about to ask.
“Well, that was interesting,” Wonyoung remarks with a giggle, breaking the awkward silence. “Let’s head out too.”
With that, the girls bid farewell to the players, their minds buzzing with both excitement from meeting the pros and curiosity about TenZ's interrupted question. As they left the conference room, they couldn’t help but replay the day’s events in their minds, eager for the upcoming tournament.
Timeskip
The seats filled with eager fans chatting and holding boxes of popcorn waiting for the game to start becomes silent as the venue lights suddenly cut, casting the space into utter darkness. A single spotlight illuminates the arena finding the announcer, who steps forward amidst the roaring applause of the crowd. With a wide smile, he greets the enthusiastic audience, setting off another wave of cheers.
" Fans, are you ready?" he shouts through the microphone, prompting a loud response.
“YES!”
“I said ARE YOU READY” He asks again, getting an even louder response.
“YESS!!!!”
"Then I Welcome you to VCT Champions in Seoul! Where we have the two most popular and formidable teams competing for the Valorant Champion Trophy. But before we get to the main event, we have a special treat for you: a show match between the two largest KPOP groups in the world, battling it out right here on this stage. Without further ado, let's give it up for the baddest group, IVE!"
He announces the first group, IVE, and they make their entrance to the electrifying beats of "Baddie" wearing their black outfits from the Accendio music video. The members of IVE wave to their adoring fans, taking their places at the front of the stage, clearly soaking in the excitement.
“The crowd really is loud aren’t they?” Whispers Liz as she continues to stare at the crowd waving at them.
"Now, introducing their opponents, a fearless group of individuals, Le Sserafim!"
With Eunchae leading the charge of Lesserafim, all in their styled outfits, she emerges onto the stage running out and playfully showboating to the amusement of both IVE and their own group who follow behind her. Laughter fills the air as they exchange friendly banter and gestures, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for everyone in attendance.
Commentators
"Who would’ve thought that we’d see two world-renowned K-pop groups duke it out on Valorant?" said Babybay with palpable excitement.
"Yeah, I agree. Tho Lesserafim has some FPS experience on stage. IVE, on the other hand, has not" replied Sean Gares, eyes fixed on the unfolding match.
"Well, I guess we shall see. Just to remind everyone, this will be a best-of-one on the new map Abyss," said Babybay, setting the stage for the competitive showdown.
"Abyss is notorious for its perilous edges and dizzying heights, but it also promises some spectacular plays," added Sean, anticipating the tactical maneuvers to come.
"It seems like it's about to start. On the side of Lesserafim, Eunchae will be the primary duelist playing Jett, Kazuha on Gekko, Yunjin on Clove, Sakura on Omen, and Chaewon on Sage," Babybay announce, detailing the lineup.
"And representing IVE, we have Rei on Viper, Gaeul on Sova, Liz on Breach, Wonyoung as Killjoy, and Yujin on Raze," Sean added, painting a picture of the formidable opponents.
"Now, let the games begin," Babybay proclaimed as the tension in the arena mounted, signaling the start of what promised to be an electrifying match.
Timeskip
“Time is running down in overtime as it is up to Eunchae alone to plant the spike and against 3 remaining players from IVE.” Said Babybay
“ Even if she plants the spike, she only has 80 hp left to fight against. Not only that but Yujin also has her ult,” said Sean
Eunchae plants the spike on the bridge at A site, before pushing up spawn trying to get a pick.
“Good Decision, being in a 1v3 she needs to try and even out the playing field by getting a sneaky kill.”
Holding an angle Eunchae was able to spot and kill Wonyoung who was running from spawn knife out trying to get to the site. Killing her she quickly moved back to site and hide under heaven.
“Ahhh shibal.” Curses Wonyoung in the comms.
“Good Pick, Wonyoung-shi was completely caught off guard. Good play by Eunchae now WAIT A MINUTE”
As the caster was casting, in heaven Breach stuns main catching Eunchae, who was hiding under heaven, while Raze satchel out on to site with ult. Breach jumps down which he ends up seeing Eunchae and starts to spray down. Miraculously Eunchae sprays back one shotting Breach. This however got Raze's attention leading her to turn around and shoot her ult. Right before that, Eunchae somehow sprayed transfer and 1 tap headshot the raze before the ult was shot.
Winning the game, Eunchae shoots out of the chair and dances victoriously with the other girls throwing down the headset and joining her by giving her a hug. They lifted her up and threw her up in the air cheering Eunchae with the crowd clapping and cheering with them. On the other side, IVE, although disappointed at the loss, clapped for Eunchae. Yujin stands up and goes to each member hugging them as Leeseo joins from backstage. Both teams then lined up in the middle and gave each other a handshake before walking to the front and bowing towards the crowd.
"Wow, that was amazing. Although it was lucky, she made some impressive plays throughout the game, along with everyone else," remarked one of them.
"Yeah, it was. She definitely has talent. If she wasn't an idol, she might have been a professional gamer," replied another.
Somewhere
“Damn, how did she hit that spray transfer?” Says a voice
“She does have talent; Dude I think she’s gunning for your job.” Say another voice
“Haha, of course she does. I expect nothing less from her.” A voice chuckle
“Come on guys, let's get ready.” Commands another voice
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