The members of Block M stepped off the tour bus and gazed up in awe at the towering glass structure in front of them was Stax Entertainment's headquarters. This would be their new home, the place where their dreams would now truly begin. After months of survival challenges, emotional roller coasters, and uncertainty, they were finally here, walking through the doors of a label that had not only believed in them but fought to make them permanent artists.
Inside, they were greeted by none other than Tao, the CEO of Stax, and one of the key figures behind their success. His smile was proud and warm as he welcomed each member with a handshake and a few words of encouragement. "Welcome home," he said sincerely. "You're officially part of the family now."
Tao then led them into a sleek conference room. With everyone seated, he made the announcement they had all been waiting for: "As of today, all of your contracts have officially been bought out. You are now permanent artists under Stax Entertainment."
The room erupted into cheers, a few of the members even tearing up. Jeren, still riding the high from placing first, glanced over at his fellow TurnUp members, grateful that they had all made it together. Hoya, who had been added at the last moment, was visibly emotional as this was validation in its purest form.
Tao went on, "At Stax, we don't shelve our artists. Everyone gets a fair shot. And that includes solo activities, subunits, and full group releases. If you work hard, you will be heard."
He introduced them to Jun, a young but sharply dressed producer in his mid-twenties. "Jun is going to be your personal producer. He trained under both Rui and me, and now he's ready to lead your creative direction." Jun gave a respectful bow, his eyes full of excitement and determination.
Jun smiled as he addressed them. "I know I have big shoes to fill, but I've watched each of your performances and I believe in you. We're going to make great music together."
Tao nodded in agreement. "Jun's already got some demo tracks waiting for you. But before we get into studio time, let's give you the full tour." And with that, the tour of Stax HQ began.
Mitsunari, now a senior artist under Stax, joined them on the tour, offering little anecdotes and guidance throughout. "This is the studio where I recorded 'Is This Something More,'" he said as they passed one soundproofed room. "You'll probably be in here at some point."
VIRE met them in the main practice room. Rui, their producer gave the new group an encouraging nod. "Don't worry about us being seniors. If you ever want to collaborate, our doors open," he said, drawing cheers from Block M.
Mizuha surprised everyone by showing up for the tour as well. She shyly introduced herself to the group, and several of the members immediately recognized her from the viral performances with Mitsunari. "It's nice to meet you all," she said warmly. "You're in good hands here."
They were led through the vocal training rooms, dance studios, artist lounges, fitness center, and even a private café where staff and artists mingled freely. Block M was stunned. The facilities were not just luxurious as they were built for growth.
Tao led them into the Innovation Wing, where digital content, virtual performances, and social media strategies were developed. "This is how we keep your fans engaged around the world," he explained. "We don't just build idols, we build legacies."
He took time to introduce them to every department head including A&R, styling, media content, legal, and overseas promotions. "Everyone here works to support your careers. Respect them, and they'll move mountains for you," Tao said.
They passed several trophy cases showcasing awards, platinum records, and memorabilia. "You'll add your own trophies here one day," Mitsunari said, clapping Jeren on the shoulder.
Later, they gathered in the Stax amphitheater as a sleek, in-house performance space with full sound and lighting equipment. "This is where we rehearse showcases and stream exclusive content," Tao explained. "Block M will hold your first official in-house fan meet here."
Tao then brought up a subject that made everyone sit up straight. "In the next few months, we'll be working on a Stax Collaboration Album. Every artist, including you, will participate. You'll get to work with your seniors and show fans what you bring to the table."
The members exchanged looks of excitement. Collaborating with groups like VIRE, and maybe even Mitsunari himself, was a dream they hadn't dared to speak aloud until now.
"Also," Tao added, "we're preparing to debut a new girl group under Stax in the next 6 to 9 months. The trainees are extremely talented. I hope you'll support them when they arrive."
The thought of becoming seniors to someone else was a bit surreal for Block M. They had just debuted themselves, but already, the gears of the industry kept turning.
After the tour, Tao sat with the group in the artist lounge for a final discussion. "I know you're probably overwhelmed right now, but take it in. Every hallway you walked through today… that's your future."
He handed each of them a personalized welcome packet with studio schedules, branding guides, and access codes. "You are now Stax Entertainment artists. This is your stage."
The tour ended, but the group lingered in the lounge, chatting among themselves. Mark, who had grown close to Suho and Jeren during the show, was already brainstorming potential subunit ideas.
Donghun pulled out his notebook, jotting down lyrics. "I've got something new in my head," he said. "Jun's gonna love this."
Issac and Johnny explored the practice rooms again on their own, amazed at how different their lives had become in just a few weeks. "This still feels like a dream," Johnny said.
Jeren stood near the window, looking out at the skyline with a sense of purpose in his eyes. "We made it. Now let's make sure we stay here."
Block M had not only survived they had earned their place. And as they began to settle into their new lives at Stax, one truth rang louder than anything else:
Their real journey had just begun.