Being maknae of DREAMCATCHER (MALE X DREAMCATCHER

The Reality Pt2

chapter flew by in a blur of vocal exercises, harmonization drills, and one-on-one coaching. The noonas took turns working with Iman, helping him find his unique voice within the group's sound. JiU-noona was especially attentive, teaching him how to project his voice without straining, and how to express different emotions through his singing. It was a steep learning curve, but Iman was determined to absorb everything like a sponge.

By the time the vocal training session ended, Iman felt both exhausted and exhilarated. He was pushing his limits, but he could feel himself growing stronger with each passing hour. The noonas' encouragement meant the world to him, and he was eager to continue proving that he could be a valuable addition to Dreamcatcher.

After a brief break, it was time for language lessons. While Iman had been teaching himself Korean for years, there were still gaps in his knowledge, especially when it came to complex grammar and idiomatic expressions. The company had arranged for a language tutor to work with him, focusing on areas that would help him better integrate into the group and communicate more effectively with fans and the media.

The tutor, a soft-spoken man in his thirties, greeted Iman with a warm smile.

Tutor: Iman-ssi, I've heard that your Korean is already quite good. Today, we'll work on refining your pronunciation and expanding your vocabulary, especially in areas related to performing and media interviews.

Iman nodded, eager to improve. The tutor began with pronunciation drills, focusing on the nuances of sounds that Iman sometimes struggled with. They moved on to vocabulary, with the tutor introducing terms and phrases commonly used in the entertainment industry.

Tutor: For example, when talking about your role in the group, you might say, "저는 팀의 막내입니다." (Jeoneun timuui maknaeimnida) which means, "I am the youngest member of the team." Or if you want to describe your journey to becoming a member, you could say, "오랜 시간 동안 노력했습니다." (Oraen sigan dong-an noryeokhaetssumnida), which means, "I worked hard for a long time."

Iman repeated the phrases, concentrating on getting the pronunciation just right. The tutor was patient, correcting him gently and explaining the context in which certain words would be used. As they progressed, Iman began to feel more confident in his ability to express himself in Korean. It was another piece of the puzzle that would help him feel more at home in this new world.

The language lesson was intense, but rewarding. By the time they finished, Iman felt like he had gained a deeper understanding of the language and how to use it more effectively in his new role. The tutor promised to return for regular sessions, helping Iman continue to improve over time.

After the language lesson, the noonas suggested taking a short break before they resumed practice. They led Iman to a small lounge area within the company building, where they could relax and recharge. The room was cozy, with comfortable sofas, a few potted plants, and a large window that offered a view of the bustling city below.

Siyeon: You're doing really well today, Iman-ah. How are you feeling?

Iman hesitated for a moment, then smiled.

Iman: Tired, but... good. I'm learning so much. I just hope I can keep up with everything.

Handong: You will. It's a lot to take in, but you're strong. We can all see how hard you're trying, and that's what matters. We're here to help you, remember that.

The noonas' words were comforting, and Iman felt a sense of relief. They weren't just his mentors—they were his friends, and they were rooting for him. The bond they were forming was something Iman had longed for his entire life. It was more than just a professional relationship; it was a connection that went deeper, built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared dream.

After their break, the group returned to the practice room for one final session of the day. This time, they focused on stage presence and performance techniques. The noonas taught Iman how to engage with the audience, how to convey emotion through subtle gestures and facial expressions, and how to maintain energy throughout a live performance.

SuA: Performing on stage is different from practicing in the studio. You have to connect with the audience, make them feel like they're a part of the performance. It's about more than just singing and dancing—it's about creating a moment that they'll remember.

Yoohyeon: Think about the lyrics and the story behind the song. What are you trying to say? How do you want the audience to feel? Let that guide your movements and expressions.

Iman nodded, taking their advice to heart. He knew that performing live would be one of the biggest challenges he would face, but he was determined to rise to the occasion. As they ran through a mock performance, Iman focused on everything he had learned that day—his movements, his expressions, his voice, his connection to the music. It was a lot to juggle, but with the noonas' guidance, he began to find his rhythm.

The day finally came to an end as the sun began to set. The noonas congratulated Iman on a job well done, and they all headed back to the dorm, exhausted but satisfied with the progress they had made.

Back at the dorm, the atmosphere was relaxed and warm. The noonas cooked a simple dinner together, chatting and laughing as they prepared the meal. Iman helped where he could, though he was still getting used to the kitchen and the ingredients they used. The meal was a comforting blend of Korean and Malaysian flavors, a reflection of the cultural fusion that Iman represented.

As they sat down to eat, Iman felt a deep sense of contentment. It had been a long and challenging day, but he had grown so much in just a few short hours. And most importantly, he was starting to feel like he truly belonged here—with Dreamcatcher, with his noonas, and in this world that he had always dreamed of being a part of.

After dinner, they gathered in the living room to unwind. Siyeon-noona suggested watching a movie, and they all agreed, settling in with blankets and snacks. As the movie played, Iman found himself dozing off, his body finally succumbing to the exhaustion of the day. But even as he drifted into sleep, a small smile played on his lips.

He was living his dream—no, he was building it, one day at a time. And with the support of his noonas, there was nothing he couldn't achieve.

To be continued...