The main training room buzzed with nervous energy as trainees clustered in small groups.
Mirrors lined every wall, multiplying our anxious faces into infinity.
I counted heads—nearly all hundred trainees packed into the space. The air grew thick with competing scents and the sharp tang of sweat.
"This feels different," Yuhyun murmured beside me, rolling his shoulders. "Usually they split us into smaller groups."
Jisoo bounced on his toes. "Maybe they're announcing something big! Like a surprise guest mentor or—"
"Or another elimination," Jinwook cut in flatly.
The room's chatter died as heavy footsteps echoed from the hallway. Production crew members filed in first, cameras hoisted on shoulders, followed by assistants clutching tablets and clipboards.
PD Kwon entered last, his trademark smirk already in place.
My stomach dropped. They never brought this much equipment for routine announcements.
"Good evening, trainees." His voice carried that honeyed tone that meant trouble.
