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 remember, 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 come—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 name, 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 moment for everyone watching.

If he recalled correctly, the Boys Odyssey in his previous world had followed the same format. This moment 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 names of the contestants ranked 60th to 51st. Each time a name was called, the contestant would step up onto the stage, their expressions a mix of relief and joy. Some even broke into tears as the tension finally eased. Once all ten contestants were on stage, one of the mentors 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 name 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 something similar in another location, where they were now leading the contestants?

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

As more names were called, Haneul’s concern grew. By the time they reached rank 35 and his name 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 moment 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 announcements 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 same time. Seojun blinked, momentarily stunned, as if he hadn’t expected to hear his name. The surprise lingered only for a heartbeat before he broke into a radiant, grateful smile—perfect for the cameras roaming the room. Any longer hesitation might have been misinterpreted by viewers, and Seojun seemed 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 chimed in warmly.

Seojun looked at the two Omegas, 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 names will also be called soon," Robin murmured as he looked at Seojun’s back with envy. freewebnøvel.com

Haneul wished for the same. 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 member 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 time 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 names 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 performed 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 member toward the exit door near the stage.

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

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

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