Always Seven // Xdinary Heroes 7th Member

ׂ╰┈➤ part 5.

I.

Days flew by in a blur, and with Minhee no longer having to attend school, the band's schedule became even more intensive. They resumed their band activities with renewed vigor, fully immersing themselves in the preparation for their first mini-album, "Hello, World!" The album consisted of six tracks: five songs and one instrumental of their title track "Test Me." 

The recording process had been grueling but rewarding, and today marked the final vocal recording session for the last three songs. As the clock struck 8 PM, the members emerged from the recording studio, their faces etched with both exhaustion and satisfaction. "Finally, we're done recording," Gunil said, stretching his arms above his head. "Now we just have to nail these songs in practice." 

The sense of accomplishment was almost tangible, filling the room with a palpable energy that was a mix of relief and anticipation. The others nodded in agreement, their relief palpable. "Yeah, but let's not forget we still have four hours of band practice ahead," Jungsu reminded everyone, a hint of weariness in his voice. They made their way to the practice room, the familiar space that had become almost like a second home to them. 

Minhee, feeling the need to freshen up after the long recording session, excused herself to the bathroom. "I'll be back in a minute," she said, grabbing a clean shirt from her bag. Seungmin watched her go, a small smile playing on his lips. "Don't take too long, or we'll start without you," he called after her teasingly. The camaraderie among them was evident, their bond strengthened by the shared trials and triumphs they had experienced together. 

The atmosphere was a blend of fatigue and excitement, the kind of weariness that comes from hard work and the anticipation of a job well done. Minhee returned shortly, looking refreshed and more comfortable in her new shirt. She headed straight for her bass guitar, the instrument that had become an extension of herself over the years. As she plugged in her bass, she felt a surge of energy coursing through her. 

The rest of the band was also getting ready, each member focused on their respective instruments and microphones. Jiseok adjusted his rhythm guitar, making sure everything was in place, while Jungsu tuned his keyboard with meticulous care. Gunil, the steady heartbeat of the band, gave his drum set a final check, tapping each drum lightly to ensure everything was perfect. 

Hyeongjun and Jooyeon were in deep conversation about the guitar riffs, their fingers moving deftly over the strings as they ran through a quick warm-up. "Alright, let's go through 'Test Me' one more time from the top," Gunil said, his voice steady and authoritative, reflecting his role as the band leader. They all took their positions, the familiar rush of adrenaline kicking in. 

II.

Minhee glanced around at her bandmates, their faces a mix of concentration and excitement. Seungmin, behind his synthesizer, nodded at her, his fingers already hovering over the keys, ready to start. "Ready?" Gunil asked, looking around the room, and with a collective nod, they launched into the song. The room filled with the powerful blend of their instruments, the sound rich and full, each note a testament to their hard work and dedication. 

As they lost themselves in the instrumentals and music of their title track, "Test Me," the room buzzed with energy. Each member was engrossed in their performance, creating a powerful and cohesive sound that resonated through the practice room. The synergy between them was almost palpable, each instrument blending perfectly with the others. 

Hyeongjun's lead guitar soared above the steady rhythm laid down by Jiseok, while Jungsu's fingers danced across the keyboard, adding depth and complexity to the melody. Seungmin's synthesizer added a modern, electrifying edge to the music, and Jooyeon's vocals were strong and clear, harmonizing effortlessly with Minhee's bass lines.