The Audition

The following week, Ji-hoon stood in front of a large building, staring at the towering sign that read StarRise Entertainment Agency. His hands were clammy, his heart pounding with anticipation. Though it wasn't an official audition, he'd been invited by an agency scout to perform a small scene after they'd noticed his unique approach during the last open casting call.

Ji-hoon took a deep breath, his mind racing with doubts and excitement. He hadn't expected this level of interest so soon, especially with his lack of experience, but he was determined to give it his all. As he stepped into the building, he felt the weight of the moment pressing down on him.

Min-woo, who had insisted on accompanying him for moral support, patted him on the back. "Relax, Ji-hoon. They wouldn't have invited you if they didn't see something in you. Just show them what you've got."

Ji-hoon nodded, grateful for his friend's encouragement. "Thanks, Min-woo. I don't think I'd have made it this far without you."

"Hey, I'm just here for the ride. This is your show," Min-woo replied with a grin. "Besides, I might have a future career as your manager if you keep this up."

Ji-hoon laughed, the thought of Min-woo as his manager lightening his nerves. "Deal. If I get anywhere in this industry, you're my first pick."

Ji-hoon was led into a small studio space where a camera and a couple of agency representatives were waiting. The scout who had invited him introduced himself as Mr. Kang, a young talent scout with an eye for unique talent.

"Ji-hoon, right?" Mr. Kang asked, extending a hand. "Good to meet you. I saw something intriguing in your performance last time, so I wanted to see if you could show us a bit more."

Ji-hoon shook his hand, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "Thank you for this opportunity, Mr. Kang. I'll do my best."

Mr. Kang handed him a short script, explaining the scene's context. "We're looking for someone who can convey subtle emotions—a character who's torn between loyalty and betrayal. Take a few minutes to review, and when you're ready, we'll start."

Ji-hoon nodded, taking a deep breath as he read over the lines. The character felt complex, layered with emotions that were both vulnerable and conflicted. He focused, recalling the system's simulation mode, the way it allowed him to embody emotions he'd never experienced before.

After a few minutes, Ji-hoon looked up, signaling he was ready.

The camera rolled, and Ji-hoon let himself slip into the role. He felt the weight of the character's internal struggle, his voice laced with hesitation as he delivered each line. His gaze shifted, revealing a flicker of doubt, then determination. When he finished, there was a moment of silence.

Mr. Kang looked at him thoughtfully, nodding. "Impressive. You've got a natural way of expressing layered emotions. It's rare, especially for someone without formal training."

Ji-hoon's cheeks warmed, pride mingling with relief. "Thank you. I've been trying to improve, to learn as much as I can."

Mr. Kang glanced at the other representatives, who exchanged nods of agreement. "We'd like to keep an eye on you, Ji-hoon. We don't have a contract offer yet, but there's potential here. How would you feel about working with us informally while we explore possible roles?"

Ji-hoon's heart leapt. "I'd be honored. I'll work hard and prove myself."

Min-woo grinned from the back of the room, mouthing, "You've got this!"

After the informal audition, Ji-hoon and Min-woo walked out of the building, the excitement between them palpable. The fact that a major agency like StarRise had taken notice was beyond anything Ji-hoon had expected.

"Can you believe it?" Ji-hoon asked, a mixture of disbelief and joy in his voice. "They actually want to work with me."

Min-woo clapped him on the back. "I told you! You have a natural talent, Ji-hoon. You just needed the right people to see it."

Ji-hoon laughed, feeling the weight of the moment settle in. He knew this was only the beginning, but he was grateful for every step that brought him closer to his dream.

Over the next few weeks, Ji-hoon focused on improving his skills, using the system's simulation mode to practice different scenes and scenarios. The system became his private acting coach, guiding him through the emotional subtleties that brought his characters to life. Every night, he replayed scenes, studying each movement, each expression, and each word.

One evening, as he practiced, the system provided feedback:

[Simulation feedback: Strong conveyance of internal conflict. Suggested improvement: Add subtle hesitations to capture vulnerability.]

Ji-hoon took the feedback to heart, adding the suggested pauses and changes. The system's guidance helped him see acting as more than just delivering lines—it was about embodying emotions in a way that resonated with the audience.

As he continued practicing, he started receiving more informal invitations from StarRise, often attending small gatherings with casting directors and other budding actors. Though he hadn't officially signed with the agency, the experience was invaluable. He was beginning to understand the industry's inner workings and what casting directors looked for in an actor.

One evening, Mr. Kang approached Ji-hoon during a networking event.

"Ji-hoon, I see you're putting in the effort," Mr. Kang said, handing him a glass of water. "Keep showing up like this, and you'll be a top choice when roles become available."

Ji-hoon bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Mr. Kang. I'm doing my best to improve every day."

Mr. Kang nodded approvingly. "Good attitude. I can tell you have a natural grasp of character depth. Just remember, this industry values patience and persistence. Success doesn't come overnight, but you're on the right path."

Hearing these words from someone with industry experience filled Ji-hoon with hope. He promised himself he would keep working hard, no matter how challenging the journey became.

One night, after a long practice session with the system, Ji-hoon sat down with Min-woo to discuss his progress and the path ahead.

"Min-woo, do you really think I have a shot at this?" Ji-hoon asked, his voice a mixture of excitement and uncertainty.

Min-woo nodded, his expression serious. "Absolutely. You've got the talent, Ji-hoon. You just need to stay focused and keep putting in the work. And if you ever need help, I'm here."

Ji-hoon smiled, grateful for his friend's unwavering support. "Thanks, Min-woo. I can't imagine doing this without you."

"Then it's settled. I'm officially your manager—until the day you make it big and I have to start calling you 'sir,'" Min-woo joked, winking.

They laughed, but Ji-hoon knew that Min-woo's offer was sincere. The thought of having his best friend by his side, helping him navigate the challenges of the industry, gave him a renewed sense of confidence.

As the weeks passed, Ji-hoon continued attending events, honing his skills, and practicing diligently with the system. StarRise had yet to offer an official contract, but he remained patient, knowing that each experience brought him closer to his goal.

One afternoon, he received a call from Mr. Kang with an unexpected opportunity.

"Ji-hoon, there's a minor role available in an upcoming drama. It's small, but it's a speaking role, and it could be a good start for you. Are you interested?"

Ji-hoon's heart skipped a beat. "Yes, absolutely. I'd love the chance."

"Great. I'll send you the details. Remember, this is just the beginning. Treat it as a learning experience," Mr. Kang advised.

Ji-hoon thanked him, feeling a surge of excitement. A minor role was still a role, and it was his first official opportunity to appear on screen. He knew it wasn't the lead, but he was grateful for every step that brought him closer to his dream.

That night, as he prepared for his first official appearance, Ji-hoon realized how far he'd come. With Min-woo by his side, his hard work, and the system's guidance, he was ready to embrace every opportunity, big or small.

This was only the start of his journey, and he was determined to make the most of it.