"What are you talking about?" Seven asked, feeling confused. "The styles," Ocho pointed out. "Don't they remind you of certain groups? And not just any random groups—but groups participating in this very show." Uno's ears started ringing as he gazed at EVE. They were currently employing a bubbly EDM concept for the second verse. It sounded strangely like BOYMYSTIC mixed with EVE's style. Then, Uno thought back on the previous styles they employed in their performance. The first part was a chorale. The second part was an intense dance break. The first chorus was characterized by a rock band sound. "You're right," Uno said, finally getting what EVE was trying to do. At first, he was merely amazed that they were employing so many concepts in one song without it being too much. However, now, he finally understood. - Do you know any other group who is as versatile as EVE? - How many genres are they going to perform? - I feel like I'm watching all the groups in one performance. - Wait a minute. You might be onto something.
As the bridge approached, the audience anticipated another shift in the genre. And true to form, the group delivered yet another twist in the tale, plunging the studio into darkness as the music took on a sinister edge.
Gone were the pulsating beats and rocking rhythms of before, replaced instead by a haunting melody that seemed to emanate from the depths of the abyss itself. It was a sound both eerie and enchanting, and paired with their heavenly vocals, the audience felt goosebumps arise from their skin. "Home...where we spent most of our days. Home...where no one goes away. Home...where we make each other stay." It was a concept that perfectly suited the music video that had accompanied the song. At that moment, EVE had finally embraced a concept that was congruent with their music video, one they had never done before. CHAOS' dark concept was perfect for this certain part. Haruki's posture straightened when he recognized the style they were employing. Then, it hit him. He had a hunch on what they were trying to do for their performance. However, it was only now that he realized his hunches were right.
"Beware the Oasis in the desert of need.
For in its seemingly quenching waters lies the peril of drowning.
In the heat, none perish, but within the embrace of a deceptive sanctuary...
The true danger unfolds." A small chuckle escaped his lips as EVE emanated CHAOS' vibe. The song arrangement, instrumentation, and even the stylistic vocal choices that they made reminded Haruki of their own performances. He thought he had one-upped EVE by adapting their signature concept for their final performance. However, not only did EVE one-up them, but they also overrun the other groups in the competition. Haruki had to admit that he focused only on EVE since they were the group that had the highest chance of surpassing their score. However, June took it to another level by involving their other competitors. Haruki had to applaud them for thinking of such a great concept. As the final chorus approached, a sense of familiarity washed over EVE. It felt like slipping into a well-worn pair of shoes after a long journey—like they had returned home. They were back to the comfort of their original style, where every note and step felt like second nature. They had performed this song plenty of times, so it might seem mundane for people who have watched their performance before. However, with June's elevated vocal skill that exploded with background ad-libs, the song was taken to another level. They embraced the familiar rhythm and melody, their movements fluid as they danced across the stage. Since it was the final chorus, they gave it their all despite feeling fatigued.
June felt a cramp on his calf, causing him to purse his lips. However, he braved the pain and continued ad-libbing not even a second later. It was the last part of the song, their last performance on King of Kings, and their last chance to prove they were deserving of becoming the winners. So, June pushed himself to the limit. Even though he wanted the prize to be an all-expense paid trip to Europe instead of a variety show, he still gave it his all since his members appeared to be very eager about the prize. The music engulfed the studio with warmth and light as EVE delivered the bright, almost summery tune. The audience, still on their feet, joined EVE in singing the last chorus, their voices resonating along with the handsome idols. Those at the front also started jumping and dancing along with the music. Even the judges couldn't help but join in on the excitement, some of them rising from their seats and clapping along with the crowd. It was as if they had forgotten they were there to judge a competition, swept away by the joy of EVE's performance. Instead of a competition, it felt more like a mini-concert, and the fact that EVE performed plenty of genres in one song only added to the feeling. Despite the lack of stage effects, it felt like a hundred spotlights shone on EVE. Truly, the stage was where they shone the most, and it was evident in their faces that they enjoyed performing. - Fuck, I should have been there too. - I curse everyone who had the privilege to watch this performance live. I hate all of you. - I love this performance so much. This just shows that EVE is capable of executing plenty of concepts. - It makes me wonder what their concept would be on their comeback!
- Just thinking about a comeback got me trembling. - I'm a new fan of EVE. I can't wait for their comeback, too. - Gosh, I feel sick knowing that I have more people to compete with to get to see EVE. The final notes of the song ended, and EVE grouped up in the middle for their final formation. They were breathless, sweat dripping from their temples (except Zeth, of course), and they looked like the hottest kings to ever grace the land. Then, as the song ended, the camera focused on their faces, which had wide and satisfied smiles. It was such a beautiful scene that the audience couldn't help but applaud. It was a stage that contained nothing, but at the same time, it felt so full. Because in the state of nothingness, they utilized their raw talents...and in the end, they were able to show everything.
