Public perception of vampires in Korea wasn't as negative as before. The policies implemented since Heinz's rise to power had finally started to bear fruit. Streets were safer at night thanks to their control over the underworld, and villainous terrorist attacks had decreased significantly. The citizens were well aware of who was responsible for this peace.
'And the Blood Alliance didn't just act as vigilantes.'
They implemented various measures to integrate into society. One of them was offering considerable sums of money to those in need of quick cash in exchange for their blood. It was a lifeline for those in dire straits.
'Of course, they couldn't use it frequently, as being drained of blood weakened them.'
But it was still a better option than falling into the abyss of high-interest private loans. Conducting the procedure in a clean, hospital-like environment, rather than a shady back alley, also helped reduce aversion.
"We can step into the light thanks to Lord Heinz. If it wasn't for him, we'd still be hiding from the Guardians and the Supernatural Management Bureau."
Phantom's reputation, having single-handedly conquered Europe's underworld and become one of the strongest, was enough to deter those who tried to oppose the Blood Alliance. Moreover, they had launched a charm offensive through Howard Industries and played a key role in restoring order and providing relief efforts during the Seoul terrorist attack…
'With all that, public perception couldn't help but change.'
Unlike before, when they were treated like criminals and hunted down, there was now a tendency to observe them, like reformed criminals. Of course, they were still under constant surveillance, ready to be suppressed if they stepped out of line.
'But overseas perception is…'
Perhaps unsurprisingly, it still wasn't good, perhaps because they didn't receive direct benefits. Conspiracy theories about their true motives behind their actions in Korea were common. The overseas news articles after Phantom's trip to Europe were proof of that.
Most headlines were negative. There were some neutral opinions, but the overwhelming majority were critical. The proposal to debut attractive vampires in the Korean entertainment industry, known for its less negative image of vampires, stemmed from this.
'It's not a bad idea.'
If vampires, who had been seen as objects of fear, appeared on TV, singing and dancing, and portrayed themselves as 'just slightly different humans' on variety shows, wouldn't it improve their image? And that perception would naturally spread worldwide through the internet and other media. Although there would be obstacles, it wasn't a risky venture.
'…But is this really the right direction for the Blood Alliance?'
A dark organization branching out into the global magic tool business and the entertainment industry? It was an extreme diversification.
"I've given you full authority on this matter, so do as you see fit. How are things progressing?"
But since he had approved it, he intended to see it through. He might even be able to use this to absorb vampires from other countries.
"This is a big challenge for us. It's important to start off strong."
Although Korea's perception of them was better than other countries, it was only relative. There were still many who held negative views, so it was important to make a strong impact and aim for popularity from the beginning.
"And what's more popular than—a girl group?!"
Jin Sohan declared confidently, her eyes shining with excitement. She radiated confidence.
"Hmm, a girl group."
Heinz stroked his chin and nodded. Although it was a biased opinion from a former idol trainee, it was certainly persuasive.
"We've selected members through rigorous auditions and put them through harsh training. The final recording is also complete. You'll be satisfied, Lord."
Jin Sohan puffed out her chest and spoke proudly. She had personally overseen the member selection process, meticulously checking various factors. She selected five members after evaluating their appearance, talent, eloquence, singing ability, and sense, from volunteers eager for the spotlight.
"Mental fortitude was also an important factor. They'll inevitably face criticism in the beginning, and the probability of failure isn't low."
Attractive and unique appearances were a given. Ironclad stamina thanks to regeneration, acrobatic dance moves that defied human limits, and explosive vocal power that strained their vocal cords. Jin Sohan declared that an unprecedented, ultimate idol group would be born.
"Oh? You're making me curious."
There were Awakened in the entertainment industry, but vampires were inherently charming. Who could resist them if they unleashed their full potential? As he marveled, she continued.
"There's still a lot to do, like the album cover, music video, and promotion, but it won't take long with the Blood Alliance's resources. Oh! Would you like to meet them? They should be practicing in the practice room."
Jin Sohan was overflowing with energy. Heinz looked at her with a strange expression. She was always energetic, but he had never seen her this excited. He spoke without thinking.
"Don't you want to debut yourself? I heard you gained a lot of attention after the Howard Industries showcase."
"Me?"
She blinked a few times, then looked away, as if she had never considered it, and smiled awkwardly.
"…Hmm, I'm not really interested. I'm satisfied with my current life."
She shrugged and spoke nonchalantly, showing no lingering attachment.
"…Besides, I already have a lot to do. If I add idol activities to that… I might actually die from overwork."
She grumbled, but it was just an excuse. Rest wasn't that important to her, having reached level 8 thanks to the 「Refined Blood Crystals」 bestowed by Heinz, a True Blood vampire. Of course, working multiple jobs meant less time for each.
"I also do internet broadcasts sometimes. That's enough for me."
She smiled shyly, adding that seeing the idols she raised reach the top would be meaningful.
'Well, if that's what she thinks.'
Heinz had no objections. It would be troublesome for him if she, his second-in-command, couldn't focus on her work because of idol activities.
"Then let's see the members first. Have you decided on a group name?"
"Ah! I found a perfect one."
Jin Sohan tapped on her smartphone as she led him out of the office towards the practice room. She showed him a picture of a crimson flower. A strange-looking flower with long, upward-pointing stamens and curled, wrinkled petals.
"Lycoris! Isn't it good?"
Lycoris.
The name was taken from the scientific name of the red spider lily (Lycoris radiata), also known as the hurricane lily or the resurrection lily. The flower was known for its negative connotations, such as 'sad memories' or 'death', but it also had positive meanings like 'passion' and 'reincarnation'.
'…Just like our situation. The negative image, and our struggle to overcome it and be reborn.'
Lee Na-hee, who had been selected as a member of Lycoris after fierce competition, gulped. She and the other members had just finished their song and dance performance. Before Jin Sohan, who had suddenly barged into the practice room, and… Heinz, the great Lord and ruler of all vampires!
'I'm so nervous. Did I do well? His expression isn't good… Did I make a mistake?! What is it? What didn't he like?'
The five female vampires stood frozen. Heinz, watching them with his arms crossed, nodded curtly at Jin Sohan with a stern expression.
Then, without a word, he turned and left the practice room,
Leaving them frozen in place!
'Ugh! That's definitely a bad sign!'
Lee Na-hee closed her eyes, her mind racing. This wasn't her first time seeing Heinz. She had met him more often than one would expect from a low-ranking vampire. Until recently, she had worked as an office assistant at Heterosis, and long before that, she was the first of the moderates to meet him after Jin Sohan. From her experience, that reaction meant he wasn't pleased.
'I practiced so hard so I wouldn't be a burden to her…'
Like the other members, she had practiced tirelessly, even sacrificing sleep. She didn't want anyone to think she was chosen because of her connection to Jin Sohan. Of course, no one would be foolish enough to badmouth the organization's second-in-command, but she didn't want that perception to exist. She wanted to prove that she was chosen for her talent, not connections…
"Haa."
"Phew."
Multiple sighs echoed along with hers. Her fellow members, who had been standing frozen beside her, also seemed to be thinking the same thing. They exchanged glances and smiled wryly, sensing their debut wouldn't be easy.
He had heard a brief explanation from Jin Sohan before watching the members' performance. She said she paid a lot of money to a famous composer with several hit songs. And the members were talented. The dynamic, powerful choreography, the superhuman lung capacity, and their beautiful voices—he understood why Jin Sohan chose them.
But there was one problem…
"…I don't like it."
It wasn't to Harris's liking.
'The song and the singers' voices are completely mismatched. A song that overshadows the singers' charm and individuality. It's not them singing the song, but the song using them as instruments.'
The song itself was decent, but with his sensitive ears, he immediately noticed that it wasn't composed with their voices in mind. They were trying to fit themselves into a pre-made song, which is why it sounded so off. Such a song couldn't convey any emotion or philosophy.
'They're going to debut with this?'
A song that sounded like generic K-pop, failing to showcase their charm? As an elf who pursued perfect harmony between the singer, the song, and the surroundings, he couldn't tolerate it. This was a matter of pride.
"Harris! You're here again… Eek!"
Just then, Shapiron, approaching with a snack basket, gasped as if she had seen something unbelievable. She covered her mouth and let out a soft moan.
"H-Harris is… making eye contact…?"
His eyes were wide open, staring intently, not half-closed like usual. His gaze was so intense that she could almost see flames flickering in his star-shaped pupils.
Gulp
She swallowed unconsciously,
Her face slightly flushed, and she stole glances at him, etching his appearance into her memory. It was a rare sight, seeing him so passionate!
"Miss Shapiron."
"Y-yes?!"
Harris suddenly stood up, startling her. He looked at her intently and spoke in a low voice.
"I have something urgent to do. Could you help me?"
"…Yes."
He strode forward, taking the flustered Shapiron with him. He couldn't waste any time.
'It's the debut song of my subordinates; I can't let it be released like this.'
It might do well in Korea, as it was the Blood Alliance's stronghold, and the song was chosen for the Korean market. But he couldn't be satisfied with just that.
'No, absolutely not.'
He had already confirmed the singers' talent. Jin Sohan had a good eye; they had great potential. They just needed the right song.
'I have to do this properly. How long will it take to conquer the Korean market and expand overseas at this rate?'
There was no need to separate the Korean and overseas markets. Good music shone everywhere. If he could create a song that showcased their full potential, overturning their negative image, a song so captivating that no one could argue against it—
'If it doesn't exist, I'll make it.'
Harris's eyes twinkled like stars, unusually passionate. He gathered his connections, including Shapiron, and began working. He completed a song to his satisfaction
In a little over a day, in Auterica time.