Summary: The New Directions brace for the fight of their lives at the 2013 Show Choir Nationals. Mercedes takes a brave leap into her career. Rachel reflects on her life as the school year comes to an end. New show choir foes (from Glee Project) and high-profile judges from our favorite reality TV shows are introduced. Will the New Directions rank in the Top 10 and move on to the showcase?
GUEST STARRING
Amber Riley as Mercedes Jones
Vanessa Lengies as Sugar Motta
Lindsay Pearce as Harmony
Ali Stroker as Betty Pillsbury
Abraham Lim as Andrew Kim
Cameron Mitchel as Ben Jacobson
Ashley Fink as Lauren Zizes
Dean Geyer as Brody Weston
Erinn Westbrook as Bree
SPECIAL GUEST STARRING
Simon Cowell as Himself
Kate Hudson as Cassandra July
Nick Cannon as Himself
Christina Aguilera as Herself
Jennifer Lopez as Herself
Adam Shankman as Himself
Kelly Rowland as Herself
Paulina Rubio as Herself
Selena Gomez as Herself
CO-STARRING
Pamela Chan as Dottie Kazatori
INT. LOFT – THU MAY 30 – MORNING
Rachel packed her bag to get ready for her Dance 201 final. The sun had barely risen, but Rachel knew she had to keep her focus.
"It's been 26 days since Finn died; 19 since his funeral… This has been the longest month of my life. I came to New York, thinking that my dreams were going to fall right into place. I'd be attending the school of my dreams, landing lead roles, having a Cinderella's romance, starting my new life with my best friend. So much has changed. I thought New York would be the start of the best, but since I've gotten here, it has been the absolute worst. From loneliness, to the torture of Cassandra July, to heartache, to audition pressures, to finally landing the lead role of Fanny Brice, and then my world just came crashing down yet again… Finn's death, having Fanny Brice snatched away from me. I don't know how I've managed to live every day. Thank goodness the year is coming to an end. I remember I said after Grease that New York was my home now… It doesn't feel like it anymore. I feel stuck. All I know is, the comfort of my dads and my friends lies in Ohio. Being that I'm only an understudy with an ensemble role, I don't have to be back to rehearsals until July 1st… I'll definitely need that time alone to think things over, and then by mid-August I will have made my debut on the Broadway stage. Not as Fanny Brice, but at least it's something… No, I can't talk like this. I must keep chasing my dreams, after all…"
Song: "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" from Cinderella
{Rachel strolls into the streets of NYC}
A dream is a wish your heart makes
When you're fast asleep
In dreams you will lose your heartaches
Whatever you wish for, you keep
Have faith in your dreams and someday
Your rainbow will come smiling through
No matter how your heart is grieving
If you keep on believing
The dream that you wish will come true
{A big clock ticks to signal 8:00 a.m.}
Rachel: "Oh, that clock… Killjoy. I hear you, come on, get up you say!"
{Rachel enters the dance studio, where Cassie is bossing the students around.}
Rachel: Time to start another day… {She casts a look at Brody directing the students into order.} Even he orders me around. Well, there's one thing: they can't order me to stop dreaming. And perhaps someday…
The dreams that I wish will come true
{As the instrumental goes on, Rachel performs her dance, including the Tango and Foxtrot. She resumes singing as she watches the last few students complete their finals.}
No matter how your heart is grieving
If you keep on believing
The dream that you wish will come true
Rachel joined in the class's applause.
"Alright, Dance 201, congratulations! You have survived the semester!" Cassie exclaimed. "It's been a blast with you folks. Good luck with the rest of your finals, and I hope to see some of you folks in Dance 300. Use the summer wisely. Keep rehearsing! No pain, no gain! Class dismissed!"
As Rachel packed up her things, Brody went over to her.
"Top marks, if the T.A. had his way," he said. "You've done amazing this year. I haven't heard of a single freshman who took both Dance 101 and 201 in one year."
"Well, just thought I'd get things over with quickly, is all," Rachel muttered, marching out of the studio.
INT. CROWDED LOS ANGELES ARENA
The X Factor USA auditions in Los Angeles were under way. The host, Mario Lopez, walked out on stage to greet the excited audience.
"Good morning, Los Angeles!" he bellowed. "Welcome to today's auditions for Season Three of The X Factor! Let me introduce our panel of judges. We have Mr. Simon Cowell, Ms. Selena Gomez, Ms. Kelly Rowland, and Ms. Paulina Rubio!"
The judges waved to the audience before taking their seats.
"Alright, auditions are now underway," Mario announced, retreating backstage, where a nervous Mercedes Jones was pacing back and forth with a microphone in her hands.
"Alright, Ms. Jones, the floor is yours," Mario said, pointing Mercedes forward.
Momentarily, she was facing the judges.
"Hello, sweetheart, what's your name?" Pau asked.
"My name is Mercedes Jones, and I'm from Lima, Ohio," Mercedes said proudly.
"Alright, and what will you be singing for us today?" Pau asked through her thick accent.
"I'll be singing 'When Love Takes Over,' by David Guetta… featuring you on lead vocals!" Mercedes said politely to Kelly.
"Ooh, child, this is happenin'!" Kelly exclaimed playfully.
"You sure you want to do that song in front of Kelly?" Simon asked seriously.
"Yes, I'm sure," Mercedes giggled.
"Go for it," Pau said.
Song: "When Love Takes Over" by David Guetta, feat. Kelly Rowland
It's complicated, it always is, that's just the way it goes
Feels like I've waited so long for this, I wonder if it shows?
Head under water now I can breathe, it never felt so good.
Cause I can feel it coming over me I wouldn't stop it if I could
[CHORUS]
When love takes over, yeah
You know you can't deny
When love takes over, yeah
Cause something's here tonight
Give me a reason I gotta know, do you feel it too?
Can't you see me here on overload, and this time I blame you...
Ohhh... Looking out for you to hold my hand, it feels like I could fall
Now love me right like I know you can, we could lose it all
[CHORUS]
Tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight
Tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight
I'll be loving you all the time, it's true
'Cause I want to make it right with you
When love takes over [Repeat 6x]
Over, Over, Over, Over, Over, Over, Over, Over, Over, Over
[CHORUS]
The whole audience was up on their feet and so was Kelly; however, Simon put his hand up to stop the music.
"Selena?" Simon asked.
"Mercedes, that was absolutely beautiful. Your voice has such amazing power to it, and you can clearly belt!" Selena complimented.
"I was speechless," Paulina added. "I see a future star in you."
"I was not expecting it to be that good, mama!" Kelly laughed. "You did this song justice, honey, and you sang your FACE off!"
"I disagree," Simon said, immediately getting booed. "See, Mercedes, you are a great singer, but I just have trouble seeing what's marketable about you. And the song was so karaoke-like; you didn't make it your own at all!"
"Don't listen to him, Mercedes, he's just old," Selena joked.
"But she sang it perfectly!" Kelly exclaimed.
"But it wasn't creative," Simon said. "Let's put it to a vote."
"Yes," Selena said.
"Si," Paulina said.
"Hell yes, gurl!" Kelly exclaimed.
"Ms. Jones, it's a 'no' from me," Simon said.
"But you got three yeses, so you are going to the next round!" Paulina exclaimed.
Mercedes grinned and retreated backstage, though embarrassed about the 'no' from Simon.
Now off to pick up some friends…
EXT. LOS ANGELES AIRPORT
"Damn the world's population," Lauren muttered. "That's the busiest airport I've ever seen!"
"Alright, do we have everyone here?" Will asked. "Thirteen New Directions, seven musicians… yup, all accounted for!"
"Mr. Schue, how are we getting to the hotel?" Dottie asked.
"I think I can answer that question," yelled a voice from a school bus.
"MERCEDES!" exclaimed those who knew her. Everyone hopped onto the bus. Mercedes helped load all the bags and instruments and costumes under the bus, before taking a seat at the front with Mr. Schue.
"Hey, everyone, I have an announcement to make," Mercedes said, standing up to face the bus. "This morning, I auditioned for The X Factor, and… I got three out of four 'yeses' and I made it to the next round!"
The bus exploded into tumultuous cheers and applause.
"I always knew our Mercedes would be a star someday!" Tina exclaimed.
"Who the heck gave you a 'no?'" Artie asked.
"Simon," Mercedes grumbled. "But it's okay, I'm off to the next round!"
The bus began moving after the noise died down a bit.
"I couldn't have done it without you, Mr. Schue," Mercedes said.
"I'm just… speechless," Will laughed. "Feels just like yesterday you were belting out R-E-S-P-E-C-T at your audition, and now you're here!"
Mercedes giggled. "I can't believe this is happening. I'm so close. I mean, even if I don't win, maybe a record agent will notice me and sign me. Mike and Kurt were of course supportive of me when they found out I lost my deal, but I'm just glad to have everyone's support."
The conversation was cut short as everyone began singing '99 Bottles.'
"Haha, I've missed these," Mercedes remarked. "TAKE ONE DOWN, PASS IT AROUND, 98 BOTTLES OF PEPSI ON THE WALL!"
INT. HOTEL
"Alright everyone, we can't check in until 3:00, but the hotel has leased us this rehearsal area until we can get to our rooms," Will said. "Put all your bags against the wall, and let's hop right into it."
Before Will could pull the door open, another show choir came out, led by two familiar girls.
"Betty?" Artie asked.
"Harmony?" Tina exclaimed.
"Oh, it's the New Directions," Harmony said sweetly. "The Unitards are staying here too!"
"Vocal Adrenaline as well," Betty said. "We just met their pair of lead vocalists."
"Wait, there's a pair this year?" Wade asked.
"Yup," Harmony said. "I guess their coach thought having just a soloist was a weakness. They're not entering a soloist, but their duet entry is a killer."
"You'll meet them soon enough," Betty said.
"Soon enough is an understatement," Harmony added, pointing down the hall where an Asian guy and a nerdy guy strolled onto the scene.
"Ah, you must be the New Directions," the nerd said. "Hi, my name is Ben Jacobson."
"And my name is Andrew Kim," the Asian said. "We're Vocal Adrenaline's new lead pair!"
"Are you gay?" Bree asked the Asian, who looked deeply offended.
"Oh, hell no, this just raised my vocal meter 100%. We are going to smash you tomorrow night," Andrew said.
"Ah, hello, Wade!" Ben exclaimed. "Nice to see last year's MVP back in the house."
"Until he has to give up his title to someone else," Andrew said. "Alright, have a great day, New Directions! Enjoy your first-place status while you have it."
After both them and the Unitards walked away, Sugar was the first to say, "I hate those guys."
"Alright, let's not get distracted," Will demanded. "Come on, rehearsal!"
The New Directions groaned, but rehearsed for the next hour.
INT. UPSTAIRS HOTEL HALLWAY
"Okay, boys and girls, these are your rooms," Will directed.
Everyone began making their way into their rooms.
"Um, Mr. Schue?" Wade asked nervously. "Which room am I going in?"
"I thought it was obvious?" Will asked.
Wade sighed. "The boys."
"No, I figured it was fair you roomed with the girls," Will said.
Wade beamed. "Really? Thanks so much! I had to room with the Vocal Adrenaline boys last year, and it was total and utter torture. I never want to have to do that again. I just didn't feel safe with them, and I know Ryder probably wouldn't tolerate me to be in that room."
Will nodded before going into his room.
"Okay, guys, we should seriously beg Mr. Schue to let us go to Disneyland!" Dottie exclaimed excitedly.
"Yeah, that would be fun!" Marley exclaimed. "I've never been to Disneyland before! My mom could never have afforded it…"
"Guys, Mr. Schue is not even going to make that a possibility until Nationals is over," Mercedes said. "Just study your music, rehearse your choreography, and you guys will be two-time National champs in no time!"
Kitty spotted Ryder outside the door heading down the hall. She followed him.
"Where do you think you're going?" she asked.
"Getting some ice," Ryder said, indicating the bucket.
"Can I come with you? I just—"
"Kitty!" Ryder exclaimed. "I can't focus when you're always on my back! Just… get lost!"
Kitty stood in the hallway, heartbroken.
"Everything okay?" Lauren asked on her way back from the bathroom.
"Fine," Kitty muttered.
Back in the boys' room, Jake was relaxing on the bed. "Gosh, this is the life."
"Any good movies we can look at?" Artie asked, flipping through the hotel's TV options.
"Guys, we can't do that; the movie's gonna be billed to Mr. Schue! Our fundraising is tight enough as it is," Blaine said, snatching the remote away. "Now, come on, we should work on the harmonies for our 80's showstopper!"
"Artie and I should go work on our Beatles song too," Sam said, pushing Artie into the musicians' room.
Back in the girls' room, the gossip was of course underway.
"Okay, top celebrity crushes, go!" Bree commanded.
"Daniel Radcliff," Dottie sighed dreamily.
"Taylor Lautner, honey," Wade laughed.
"Who can't resist Justin Timberlake?" Sugar wondered.
"Harry Styles!" Marley laughed.
"Do you think Harry is even better-looking than Jake?" Bree asked evilly.
Marley's grin dropped. "N-no, of course not. I mean, you said celebrity crushes!"
"Mhm," Bree giggled as Kitty walked back into the room, looking sad. "Uh-oh, everything alright, Kitty Kat?"
"Yeah, just fine," Kitty sighed, plopping herself down on the bed. "Ugh, why does my love life never work out?"
"Oh geez, quit complaining," Bree muttered. "Okay, girls, truth or dare time!"
"Can we quit the games?" Tina asked. "We need to focus on Nationals!"
Bree sighed. "Have it your way, Mother Mary. Shouldn't you be working on your big solo?"
"That's only if we crack the top ten," Tina said.
"I was going to be our soloist back at the New York Nationals in 2011, but we didn't make the Top 10, so I didn't get to perform," Mercedes explained.
"Yeah, each team only does two songs. If you crack the top 10, you get a third song to vie for the championship," Lauren said.
"Yes, so last year, Rachel opened up the show for us, then we did our Vintage number, and we ranked second behind Vocal Adrenaline; then, the TroubleTones performed 'Edge of Glory' and we came won first place!" Sugar exclaimed happily.
EXT. HOTEL COURTYARD – EVENING
Kitty was sitting alone in the courtyard, watching from afar as Ryder and the boys goofed around near the bushes.
Song: "I Won't Say I'm in Love" from Hercules
[Muses = Mercedes, Unique, Sugar, Tina, Marley]
{Concept: Kitty sings all around the hotel trying to spy on Ryder, through the courtyard, through restaurants, through hallways, across staircases, all the while being discreetly followed by the Five Muses, very similar to the real scene from the movie.}
[Kitty:]
If there's a prize for rotten judgment
I guess I've already won that
No man is worth the aggravation
That's ancient history, been there, done that!
[Muses:]
Who'd'ya think you're kiddin'
He's the Earth and heaven to you
Try to keep it hidden
Honey, we can see right through you
Girl, ya can't conceal it
We know how ya feel and
Who you're thinking of
[Kitty:]
No chance, no way
I won't say it, no, no
[Muses:]
You swoon, you sigh
why deny it, uh-oh
[Kitty:]
It's too cliche
I won't say I'm in love
I thought my heart had learned its lesson
It feels so good when you start out
My head is screaming get a grip, girl
Unless you're dying to cry your heart out
Oh
[Muses:]
You keep on denying
Who you are and how you're feeling
Baby, we're not buying
Hon, we saw ya hit the ceiling
Face it like a grown-up
When ya gonna own up
That ya got, got, got it bad
[Kitty:]
Whoa: No chance, no way
I won't say it, no, no
[Muses:]
Give up, give in
[Sugar:]
Check the grin you're in love
[Kitty:]
This scene won't play,
I won't say I'm in love
[Muses:]
You're doin flips read our lips
You're in love
[Kitty:]
You're way off base
I won't say it
Get off my case
I won't say it
[Muses:]
Girl, don't be proud
It's O.K. you're in love
[Kitty:]
Oh
At least out loud,
I won't say I'm in love
"Kitty, wake up!" Lauren exclaimed.
It was just a dream!
"Damn, Sugar can actually sing," Kitty whispered. "Why, what's up?"
"Mr. Schue wants us to do one last run-through downstairs," Lauren said, dragging Kitty off the bed.
Later that night, most of the girls were in the musician girls' room playing games. Mercedes remained alone in the other room before Marley went in to join her.
"Hey, girl," Mercedes said affectionately.
"So… What was it like?" Marley asked. "The audition?"
Mercedes giggled. "It was amazing. You can just feel the audience's energy, having thousands of eyes on you, but nothing's more nerve-wracking than performing in front of four famous judges."
Marley grinned. "It sounds amazing."
"I think you would make a great recording artist someday," Mercedes said kindly.
Marley shrugged. "I just wish I could be as confident as you."
"Girl, I watched you perform your original duet at Regionals," Mercedes said. "You are so gifted, Marley. I think if you went out there after high school, you'd be signed in no time."
"Well, it really is a tough industry," Marley said. "But I'm going to do everything I can to get ready for it."
"That's what I like to hear," Mercedes chuckled. "We'll make it someday, no matter how hard we have to try."
"Where there's a will, there's a way," Marley agreed.
"Well, you'd better rest up, Marley. Big day tomorrow, and you've got a hefty part to play in the 80's number!" Mercedes instructed, hurrying off into the next room to tell the girls to get to bed.
"Alright, everyone, light's out!" Will called.
INT. LOS ANGELES THEATER – FRI MAY 31
"Good morning, Los Angeles! My name is Nick Cannon, host of America's Got Talent, and I have the honor of hosting this year's 2013 Show Choir National Championship! The talent of the fifty teams invited for this special event is intense, and we have a distinguished panel of four judges this year to help narrow down the winner. This year, the Show Choir Board has invited big-name faces to judge our competition in the aspects of vocal performance, team spirit, dance enhancement, and overall performance. Please give a round of applause for our judges!
"Judging vocal performance from The Voice, it is Christina Aguilera!"
"OH-EM-GEE, X-TINA!" Unique and Tina shrieked together as the team took their seats.
"Judging dance enhancement, from So You Think You Can Dance, it's Adam Shankman!"
"I love that show!" Kitty and Jake shouted together.
"Judging team spirit, from American Idol, it's Jennifer Lopez!"
"AAH, J-LO!" Blaine and Marley screamed.
"And finally, judging overall performance, from The X Factor, it's Simon Cowell!"
"Oh dear God," Will and Mercedes whispered nervously. The crowd was cheering so loudly.
"Before we begin, a message from the Show Choir Board. This year, the show choir board will be awarding an outstanding soloist, and an outstanding duet entry," Nick announced. "Performances may be independent, or lead vocals backed by group harmony."
Tina, Artie, and Sam looked at each other excitedly. They were all entered in those two categories.
"Now, I must remind you all how the competition will commence for the next two days. Today, all 50 teams will take the stage to perform two numbers: one for The Beatles theme, and one for the 80's team. Tonight, the Top 10 teams will be revealed, where they will move on to tomorrow's free-theme showcase."
"And now, our first group of the night, from Defiance, Ohio, we have The Unitards!" Nick announced as the curtains parted. The Unitards came on stage, led by Harmony and Betty. The girls were in navy dresses with white headbands and black around the waist. The boys were in black slacks, navy shirts, and white bowties.
Song: "Here I Go Again" by Whitesnake
Betty: I don't know where I'm going
But, I sure know where I've been
Harmony: Hanging on the promises
In songs of yesterday
Betty: An' I've made up my mind,
I ain't wasting no more time
Harmony: But, here I go again
Here I go again
Betty: Tho' I keep searching for an answer,
I never seem to find what I'm looking for
Oh Lord, I pray
You give me strength to carry on,
Harmony: 'Cos I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams
[CHORUS]
Betty & Harmony: An' here I go again on my own
Goin' down the only road I've ever known,
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
Harmony: An' I've made up my mind
I ain't wasting no more time
Betty: I'm just another heart in need of rescue,
Waiting on love's sweet charity
An' I'm gonna hold on
For the rest of my days,
Harmony: 'Cos I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams
[CHORUS]
Betty: But, here I go again,
Harmony: Here I go again,
Betty: Here I go again,
Harmony: Here I go…
Betty: 'Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams
[CHORUS 2X]
Harmony: 'Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams
Harmony: But, here I go again,
Here I go again
[repeat 3x]
INT. DRESSING ROOM
Hours later, the New Directions, with performance slot #50, were getting ready for their performance. Vocal Adrenaline was #49.
"Okay, everyone, five minutes 'til show circle!" Will exclaimed, going around ensuring everyone was fitted into their costumes. The girls were wearing black dresses with white around the waist. The guys were wearing black slacks, white shirts, with black bowties.
"Mercedes!" Marley exclaimed.
"I swear, I didn't do anything to that dress," Kitty said worriedly.
"Oh, no, I was just wondering if you could pin the dress here," Marley chuckled.
"Sure, girl," Mercedes complied, pinning Marley's dress. "Oh, hold on! I'm getting a phone call. Hello?"
"Hey, Mercedes!" Rachel exclaimed. "I just wanted to send my love to the others. So excited for them."
"They are so ready," Mercedes said proudly. "Can't believe it's only been a year since we were in Chicago."
"Yeah," Rachel said. "I thought time would fly by, but this has been the longest year of my life. But never mind that. What matters is that they go out there and kill it today."
"I'll tell them, Rachel," Mercedes said fondly. "I heard about your Funny Girl fiasco…"
"Well, we're both young girls struggling to make it in the industry," Rachel said, trying to look at the bright side. "Maybe in ten years, we'll be accepting my Tony and your Grammy together."
Mercedes laughed. "That would be amazing. Gotta go, Rachel. Show circle time!"
"Good luck, everyone!" Rachel shouted before Mercedes hung up.
"Alright guys," Will breathed nervously. "Let's remember what Ms. Adler and Finn had to say."
"By its very definition, Glee is about opening yourself up to joy," Tina said.
"The show must go… all over the place… or something," Artie imitated.
"This is for them. Alright, on three! One… Two…"
"A-MAZING!"
INT. BACKSTAGE
Jesse eyed the New Directions respectfully as Nick Cannon announced his team.
"And now, please welcome last year's runner-up, from Akron, Ohio, Vocal Adrenaline!"
Vocal Adrenaline were all dressed in full beige, really going for a 60's Beatles look and an 80's vintage look.
Song: "Twist and Shout" by The Beatles
(V.A.)
Ben: Well, shake it up, baby, now (Shake it up, baby)
Twist and shout (Twist and shout)
C'mon c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, baby, now (Come on baby)
Come on and work it on out (Work it on out)
Andrew: Well, work it on out, honey (Work it on out)
You know you look so good (Look so good)
You know you got me goin', now (Got me goin')
Just like I knew you would (Like I knew you would)
[CHORUS]
Andrew: Well, shake it up, baby, now (Shake it up, baby)
Twist and shout (Twist and shout)
C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, baby, now (Come on baby)
Come on and work it on out (Work it on out)
Ben: You know you twist your little girl (Twist, little girl)
You know you twist so fine (Twist so fine)
Come on and twist a little closer, now (Twist a little closer)
And let me know that you're mine (Let me know you're mine)
[CHORUS]
Well, shake it, shake it, shake it, baby, now (Shake it up baby)
Well, shake it, shake it, shake it, baby, now (Shake it up baby)
Well, shake it, shake it, shake it, baby, now (Shake it up baby)
"Good luck, folks," Jesse said genuinely to Will and Mercedes as he led Vocal Adrenaline (many of whom did not look so kind) off stage.
"Okay, good luck!" Will and Mercedes whispered before going off to find their seats in the general area.
"And now, the 2012 national champions, from McKinley High in Lima, Ohio, the New Directions!" Nick announced.
The curtain parted to reveal the thirteen New Directions.
Song: "Revolution" by The Beatles
Artie: You say you want a revolution
Well you know
Sam: We all want to change the world
You tell me that it's evolution
Well you know
Artie: We all want to change the world
But when you talk about destruction
Don't you know you can count me out
Artie & Sam: Don't you know it's gonna be alright
Alright, alright
Sam: You say you got a real solution
Well you know
We don't love to see the plan
Artie: You ask me for a contribution
Well you know
We're doing what we can
But if you want money for people with minds that hate
All I can tell you is brother you have to wait
Artie & Sam: Don't you know it's gonna be alright
Alright, alright, al...
Artie: You say you'll change the constitution
Well you know
We all want to change your head
Sam: You tell me it's the institution
Well you know
You better free your mind instead
Artie: But if you go carrying pictures of Chairman Mao
Sam: You ain't going to make it with anyone anyhow
Artie & Sam: Don't you know know it's gonna be alright
Alright, alright
Alright, alright
Alright, alright
Alright, alright
Alright, alright
The next number began.
Song: "We Built This City" by Starship
[CHORUS]
New Direction: We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
Blaine: Say you don't know me or recognize my face
Say you don't care who goes to that kind of place
Knee deep in the hoopla sinking in your fight
Too many runaways (with Artie & Tina: eating up the night)
Unique & Marley: Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don't you remember
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
[CHORUS]
Jake: Someone always playing corporation games
Who cares they're always changing (with Tina: corporation names)
We just want to dance here someone stole the stage
They call us irresponsible (with Artie & Tina: write us off the page)
Marley & Unique: Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don't you remember
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
[CHORUS]
Jake: It's just another Sunday
Blaine: In a tired old street
Jake: Police have got the choke hold (Unique: Oh…)
Blaine: Then we just lost the beat
Jake: Who counts the money underneath the bar
Blaine: Who rides the wrecking ball (with Marley: in to our rock guitars)
Marley: Don't tell us you need us,
Unique: 'Caus we're the ship of fools
Unique & Jake: Looking for America, coming through your schools
(Sugar: I'm looking out over that Golden Gate bridge
Out on another gorgeous sunny Saturday, not seein' that bumper to bumper traffic)
Blaine: Don't you remember (Tina: 'member)(Ryder: 'member)
(Sugar: It's your favorite radio station, in your favorite radio city
The city by the bay, the city that rocks, the city that never sleeps)
Marley & Unique: Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don't you remember
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
[CHORUS]
New Directions: Built this city, (Marley whistle note) we built this city on rock and roll
Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
(Artie, Tina, Sam, Sugar: We built, we built this city) built this city (We built, we built this city)
(Repeats out)
INT. JUDGE'S ROOM
Simon, Christina, Jennifer, and Adam gathered around a circular table calculating scores.
"Judges, how are you coming along?" Nick asked.
"There are so many tie-breakers we need to discuss," Jennifer said. "New Directions and Vocal Adrenaline are both tied for fifth for the showcase."
"Well, tiebreakers become your jurisdiction," Nick said, consulting the rulebook.
"I'd say Vocal Adrenaline should take the fifth spot," Adam said. "Their dancing was on-point. It looks like the New Directions just put together a team last week!"
"But the New Directions had so much spirit!" Jennifer exclaimed. "The smiles on their faces; that's what show choir should be about! I mean, Vocal Adrenaline looked so… competitive."
"What's wrong with that?" Simon asked. "It shows that they have drive, and they clearly worked hard for it."
"I thought the New Directions were better vocally, though," Christina said. "Plus they have Wade 'Unique' Adams, last year's MVP from Vocal Adrenaline, on their team!"
"Shouldn't have transferred," Simon muttered disappointedly. "I'm looking for 'the X factor' in these show choirs, and Vocal Adrenaline has the full package. Plus, New Directions' 'Revolution' was a total bore."
"Sorry, but I really do think that the New Directions had 'the voice.' Though, not as good as those Unitards! Their two girls can really belt. And how about those wheelchairs on their teams!" Christina exclaimed.
"I know the choreography and staging only counts for so much, but I must agree with Simon. I mean, if this were 'So You Think You Can Dance,' Vocal Adrenaline had some highlights. The New Directions were great, though," Adam said.
"Since you're all naming your shows, if I had to pick an 'American idol' of these choirs, I must insist on the New Directions. They look like such a family! I mean, yes, they didn't look like a tight-knit dancing army like the others, but they had heart," Jennifer said.
"I think we need to take it to the tiebreaker ballots," Christina said, handing one out to each judge. "Majority wins. This is how we're getting our fifth and sixth place teams for showcase."
After the judges marked their votes, they gave it to Nick to impartially count it.
"Okay, looks like you folks picked a clear winner," Nick said, adding the placements to the board, kept away from the judges' eyes.
A few doors away, the New Directions were chattering excitedly.
"Gosh, I really hope we crack the top ten," Blaine sighed.
"I can't believe I actually nailed my solo!" Sugar laughed excitedly.
"When we make the Top 10, we are going to smash those other teams' vocal cords to bits," Lauren said viciously.
"Mr. Schue? I don't feel very well," Dottie sighed, collapsing onto a couch.
"I swear, I had nothing to do with this," Kitty said defensively.
Mercedes checked Dottie's temperature. "Yup, she's got a fever! Oh gosh, not again. Don't worry, Dottie. I got food poisoning last year."
"How did this happen?" Unique asked.
"Wasn't she sitting next to that coughing and sneezing guy on the plane?" Tina asked, backing away as far from Dottie as possibly. "I cannot afford to get sick. If we get to the top 10, how am I supposed to perform my solo tomorrow if I'm sick?"
"Tina's right," Will said cautiously. "Mercedes, can you check our supplies and see if we have a facemask? We can't afford to get anyone, especially Tina, sick tonight or tomorrow."
"Will do, Mr. Schue," Mercedes said, zipping open bags.
"Okay guys. We'll know in a bit if we're going to the showcase tonight," Will said nervously.
INT. DANCE STUDIO - EVENING
Rachel was doing warm-ups and stretches on the bar when Cassie and Brody walked in together.
"What are you doing here, Schwimmer? Your final's over. You need a junior standing for Dance 300, so that means we don't get to see each other for a whole year," Cassie said, setting her bag down on the desk.
"Well I just… I had a lot of turning points in this room. I just felt like coming her to reminisce," Rachel explained, then saying to Brody, "Will I be seeing you at this weekend's rehearsal?"
"Um, perhaps," he responded.
"You know, I hear a third NYADA student was given a role," Cassie said. "It took a while because they had to weed through the amount of tap dancers auditioning, but Adam Crawford just scored the role of Eddie Ryan!"
"Wow, that's amazing!" Rachel exclaimed. "Such a great graduation present for him. But how'd you know he got cast?"
Brody looked at Cassie, nodding for her to tell Rachel the truth.
"I went down to the theater to speak to Rupert Campion earlier," Cassie said.
Rachel beamed. "You didn't have to do that."
"I wanted to… I had to…" Cassie stated. "Schwimmer, we didn't bust our butts to make signs for you and reschedule your midterm just so you can get an understudy or showgirl role. I know Rupert says it's rare for such a young girl to get a role, but I truly meant it that I believed in you, and you would have done amazing as the lead."
"But if not, it's Rupert's loss," Brody said.
"Give it a few years, Rachel," Cassie said. "You'll make it big. I know you will. Now, if you'll excuse us, Brody and I need to finish grading these dance finals."
EXT. LOS ANGELES THEATER COURTYARD
The New Directions were eating boxed dinners on the bench when they saw Nick Cannon putting up the board of the top ten rankings.
"Oh my god," Tina whimpered.
"To think, the first time this happened we weren't even on that list," Sam said.
"And the second time we ranked second," Blaine breathed.
"Okay, guys… Let's go look at it, together," Will said leading the group to the board.
2013 SHOW CHOIR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS - LOS ANGELES
1 BRANSON TABLE ROCKERS
2 NASHVILLE NANO NOTES
3 PENNSYLVANIA PANTOMIMES
4 PORTLAND SCALE BLAZERS
5 VOCAL ADRENALINE
6 NEW DIRECTIONS
7 RHODE ISLAND RHAPSODY
8 RICHMOND RHYTHMICS
9 LITTLE ROCK ALTOS
10 SALT LAKE CRESCENDOS
Everyone clutched their hearts to see that they had at least ranked.
"Looks like we are performing tomorrow!" Will screamed gleefully to the team's cheers.
"Do we have a chance of winning?" Kitty asked.
"Well, you never know," Will said with a shrug. "We can certainly advance a few places, but look at the Top Two, those are the two new teams to beat this year. Tina's going to have to kill that solo to beat them."
"She can do it," Blaine said confidently.
Tina was almost hyperventilating. "I've dreamed of this moment my whole life, and now I can't imagine the pressure that's going to be on me tomorrow!"
"Don't worry, some of us will be on stage to back you up," Dottie wheezed through her sore throat.
"Okay, guys, let's get back to the hotel and rest up. Tina, I want you on vocal rest for the rest of the night," Mercedes said. "And Dottie, keep that mask on girl, we can't afford Tina getting laryngitis."
"Let's do a team cheer before we go," Will said. "On three!"
"One… Two… A-MAZING!"
Author's Note: So if you're wondering about the competition layout that I fixed (and edited from Season 3), I just kind of had an OCD thing where I feel like Season 2's National layout was the best: two songs for the 50 teams, and then one more song for the showcase at the Top 10. I kind of merged the Season 2 and Season 3 layout together to have a solid competition format. So let's pretend that's how it worked in both of the past Nationals competitions. xD Again, comments/reviews/shares are very much appreciated!
Also, in case you were wondering about the X Factor USA judges, obviously I couldn't have Demi Lovato judging, so I chose the next 20-year-old pop star I could think of to fill Demi's seat in the Glee universe. xD