Falling for the Omega Idol Chapter 100: FIRST ELIMINATION ROUND (I)

"WE’RE about to begin the first elimination round," Dyna said. "Unfortunately, Lily-ssi couldn’t join us today due to a scheduling conflict, but don’t worry—she’ll be here for all the upcoming elimination rounds."

There was a beat of silence before Yoon Jihoon stepped forward, his usual bright smile softening the tension in the room. "Today might feel overwhelming, but rember, this is just one step in your journey. You’ve all worked hard to get here, and no matter what happens, be proud of that."

Choi Minhyuk nodded slightly, his gaze steady as he scanned the group of 100 contestants before them. "This is where the real competition begins. Use this as a chance to reflect on how far you’ve co—and how much further you can go."

"Shall we begin?" K-Beat asked. "First, we’ll announce the contestants ranked 60th to 51st. When we call your na, please step onto the stage."

Haneul was slightly surprised when he heard that. In previous Idol Producer series, during elimination rounds, they would usually start by announcing the contestant ranked just above the cutoff—for example, rank 59 if only 60 contestants were advancing. The last person to be announced would be rank 60, the one barely making it through, creating a dramatic and suspenseful mont for everyone watching.

If he recalled correctly, the Boys Odyssey in his previous world had followed the sa format. This mont served as yet another reminder that the production team behind this version of Boys Odyssey was entirely different from the one he had known before.

Dyna began announcing the nas of the contestants ranked 60th to 51st. Each ti a na was called, the contestant would step up onto the stage, their expressions a mix of relief and joy. So even broke into tears as the tension finally eased. Once all ten contestants were on stage, one of the ntors invited them to share their thoughts. Most expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying how happy they were that their journey hadn’t ended here. Afterward, the staff guided them through a door next to the stage.

Haneul couldn’t help but wonder where the staff was taking the contestants. If this were *Idol Producer*, there would be numbered seats right here in the ballroom, each representing a contestant’s rank. Once their na was called, they would sit in their assigned chair, making their rank visually clear to everyone. But here, there was nothing of the sort. Could it be that the staff had prepared sothing similar in another location, where they were now leading the contestants?

Despite his curiosity, the ranking announcent pressed on. They had now moved on to announcing the contestants ranked 50th and 41st.

As more nas were called, Haneul’s concern grew. By the ti they reached rank 35 and his na still hadn’t been announced, unease began to settle in his chest. He was well aware of his current skill level—while his vocals were strong, his dancing left much to be desired. Combined, they only amounted to a slightly average performance at best. That was why, in a mont of resolve, he removed his glasses, deciding to lean on his visuals to leave a stronger impression.

But what if it didn’t work? What if the so-called charm Yeomra had given him didn’t translate well on screen and only worked when people saw him in person? If that were the case, there was no chance his rank would be high enough to secure his spot.

Would he be eliminated here?

As his worries continued to spiral, the announcents continued on until they finally reached rank 32.

K-Beat glanced at the card in his hand before speaking. "The contestant ranked 32nd is... Han Seojun."

Both Haneul and Robin turned to Seojun at the sa ti. Seojun blinked, montarily stunned, as if he hadn’t expected to hear his na. The surprise lingered only for a heartbeat before he broke into a radiant, grateful smile—perfect for the caras roaming the room. Any longer hesitation might have been misinterpreted by viewers, and Seojun seed keenly aware of what might happen if he’s misunderstood.

"Looks like your motto really works wonders," Robin said to the side with a grin. "Congrats."

"Congratulations, Seojun!" Haneul chid in warmly.

Seojun looked at the two Ogas, who couldn’t have been more different, and a truly genuine smile lit up his face. "Thanks."

He then stood up and walked towards the stage.

"I wish our nas will also be called soon," Robin murmured as he looked at Seojun’s back with envy.

Haneul wished for the sa. He wasn’t worried about Robin—after all, in Haneul’s previous world, Robin had made it to the finale of Boys Odyssey. What troubled Haneul was the thought of himself not even making it past the first round.

Speaking of the finale, so far, Seojun was the only mber of the final debut group to be called. The other four had yet to appear. Over the past two days, Haneul had been too focused on practice to actively search for the others. Besides, what was the point? Instead of wasting ti tracking them down, it was far more productive to channel that energy into improving his skills.

He shrugged, brushing off the thought. Maybe they had higher rankings, which could explain why their nas hadn’t been called yet. Though he couldn’t recall the exact ranks of those four during the first elimination round, he felt certain they had perford well enough to make it through. After all, if they were part of the final debut group, there’s no way they would not past this stage.

After the contestant ranked 31st was announced, all ten contestants on stage took turns giving their brief speeches. Following the pattern of those before them, they were then guided by a staff mber toward the exit door near the stage.

Next up were the contestants ranked 30th through 21st.

Yoon Jihoon began announcing the nas. As the ranks reached 26th and Haneul’s na still hadn’t been called, cold sweat trickled down his back. By the ti 25th was announced, and it still wasn’t him, his heart pounded wildly with anxiety. When the na for 24th was revealed and it still wasn’t his.

"The contestant in 23rd place is... Kang Haneul!"