SummmerDaze

[WSA 2025 ENTRY] - This Novel is participating in the 2025 WebNovel Spirity Awards ^^

Due to unfortunate circumstances, "Ari" Ariel Matisse lived in the slums of Los Angeles, also known as Skid Row.

One night, on his way home, he was killed while witnessing an old man getting beaten.

When he woke up, he had been thrown into a dumpster, and a strange screen flashed across his eyes, and no matter how he looked at it, it reminded him of a status window in a game.

[System Integration Complete!]
[Become a Global Music Superstar!]

For some reason, he gained a system that wanted him to join a survival show and become a globally famous idol.

If he refused to complete his given tasks, he would die.

But if he succeeded, he would have the money and power to change his life as well as get revenge against the person who killed him.

P.s. this story is kind of a love letter to LA and the amazing blend of cultures (American, Asian, Hispanic, African, etc) that can be found there. I hope you all fall in love with the area as much as I love it.

From Skid Row to Superstardom: An Idol System Novel

When Ari walked into the room, it was to see boys sitting in a circle, half of which had dejected faces, Jamie holding a gigantic cutout of North America with a big smile on his face, Levi holding a gigantic cutout of South America with an even bigger scowl on his face, two cameramen standing in the corner of the room, and a happily smiling PD Ji-ho who turned to face him with his glasses flashing in a menacing manner.

"Ahhh, contestant Ari, so nice of you to join us."

Ari immediately took several steps back as he tried to understand what was happening, but PD Ji-ho stepped forward and dragged him back.

"You've joined us at the perfect time. I just finished explaining what the next mission is for the team, but I don't mind going over it again. But before I do that, would you like to take a guess as to what's going on?"

Cultural Festival Preparation (1)