The final round had arrived. The once 13 contestants had been narrowed down to 8. Tension was high as the girls entered the practice studio for the final briefing from the judges.
As the mentors stood before the 8 finalists, Luna stepped forward with a smile that hinted at something unexpected. "Before we begin," she said, "we have an announcement."
The girls exchanged glances, unsure of what was coming. Jessi took over, explaining that after intense discussion, the judges had decided to revive one previously eliminated contestant for the final round.
The doors opened and in walked Rina. Shock and joy swept the room. Rina, who had been eliminated in Round 4, looked humbled but determined.
"You weren't forgotten," Seunghee said gently. "We saw something in you, and we want to see it one last time."
With nine contestants now, the stakes were even higher. Only five of them would make it into the final debut lineup.
The judges explained the format as each girl would perform a solo song that represented her identity, strengths, and growth. Then, all nine would perform a group song together that's an original track titled "Final Light," produced by Jun and Mitsunari.
Practices began immediately and the group rehearsed the choreo for "Final Light" first. It was an empowering pop anthem that reflected their journey, challenges, and dreams.
Jieun and Yurina led the harmonies, while Yumi and Eunbi choreographed the chorus. The reunited nine quickly found a new dynamic, one that was more mature and focused than ever.
Rina felt the pressure of proving herself worthy of a second chance. Her solo song, "Restart," was about redemption and owning your second shot.
Mizuha, now a fan-favorite and underdog darling, worked on her solo titled "Bloom Late." The lyrics, written by Mitsunari, reflected her surprising rise and determination.
Chaelin chose an aggressive hip-hop track called "Bulletproof Beauty." She wanted to show strength and attitude, contrasting with her usually sweet visuals.
Haerin selected a ballad called "Unspoken Words," tapping into emotional vulnerability. Her calm tone and subtle power were her strength.
Yumi's song, "Gravity," blended EDM and R&B, emphasizing her range and versatility. She wanted to remind the judges that she wasn't just consistent; she was capable of stardom.
Eunbi, feeling the pressure, pushed herself in a song titled "Clarity." It was elegant, sharp, and danced on the edge of theatrical.
Jieun's solo, "Voice Memo #9," was a stripped-down acoustic track. Her vocals carried the entire performance, raw and unfiltered.
Yurina, who had always hovered near the top, went with a groovy track titled "No Excuses." It showcased her stage command and playful charisma.
The final rehearsals were intense. Mitsunari visited often to coach vocals and stage blocking. He pulled Mizuha aside after one session, whispering, "You've come too far to doubt yourself now."
The final performance day arrived. Fans, trainees, and company staff all gathered. The judges, seated with stoic expressions, watched as the stage darkened and lights began to pulse.
First up was the group performance of "Final Light." The nine girls took the stage in white and silver outfits, radiating unity and confidence.
The performance was seamless. From the opening line to the synchronized chorus, they looked like a real group with no weak links, no hesitation.
As they hit the final pose, the crowd roared. Tao looked at Jun with a knowing nod. "That could've been a debut stage."
Now came the solos, one by one. Yurina performed first. "No Excuses" had the crowd on their feet, her cheeky winks and sleek movements showcasing her star power.
Jieun followed with "Voice Memo #9." The room quieted. Her vocals soared without a single backing track. Even Jessi blinked away a tear.
Yumi brought the tempo back up. "Gravity" was confident and magnetic. She controlled the stage like it belonged to her.
Haerin's "Unspoken Words" hushed the audience. Her calm presence and haunting falsetto gave chills. Bella whispered, "She's different."
Chaelin stormed the stage with "Bulletproof Beauty." Her rap was sharp, her moves intense. Yeonho leaned in, murmuring, "She could lead a group easily."
Eunbi's "Clarity" was technically impressive, but a bit safe. She executed perfectly but lacked the spark some of the others had that night.
Then came Rina with "Restart." Her voice shook at first, but by the second verse she found her strength. The lyrics about getting back up clearly resonated with the audience.
Mizuha entered to soft lighting for "Bloom Late." She wasn't the strongest technically, but her delivery was heartfelt. She danced like she'd been waiting her whole life for this.
The final round ended. All nine stood side by side, waiting. Tao took the stage with a sealed envelope. "Only five of you will debut but each of you is worthy of the spotlight."
First announced was Yurina. No surprise as she had been consistent, entertaining, and magnetic.
Second was Jieun. The crowd erupted. Her vocals and artistry were unmatched.
Third was Chaelin. Her stage charisma and power couldn't be ignored.
Fourth, to everyone's excitement was Mizuha. Her underdog journey had led to this moment. Mitsunari clapped proudly.
The final name… Rina. Gasps spread through the room. Her redemption arc was complete. The girl once eliminated had risen back to claim a spot.
As Tears fell, Yumi hugged Eunbi tightly. Haerin bowed to the crowd with grace. Each of them had left their mark.
Tao took the mic again. "This is just the beginning. For the five who made it and those who didn't Stax is your home."
The five girls who would debut under Stax's first girl group stood together: Yurina, Jieun, Chaelin, Mizuha, and Rina. They bowed deeply, unified at last.
The lights faded, and the stage dimmed. A new girl group had been born but the journey that led them here would never be forgotten.