Chapter 1: Teaser

Chapter 1: Teaser


         The show began as the commercial playing faded into a scene of a graveyard at night and the host walked out from behind a crypt to face the camera. The camera zoomed in for a close-up as he spoke.

         "All across America, thousands came forth to demonstrate their talent and vie for the chance to be America's next big thing. With the success of two American Idols behind us and the long-anticipated Canadian Idol in the works, we've scoured hundreds of cities, looking for the next Nashville, New York or Motown."

         As the camera panned out and the host continued to walk along the graveyard, passing trees and tombstones, he said, excitedly, "And tonight, we have a special show for you. Hi, I'm your host, Ryan Seacrest, and we have come all the way to this small town in California called Sunnydale to showcast some great talent. But before we get to the contestants, let me tell you a bit about this town and why we chose Sunnydale for our prime-time special."

         The scene cut to a montage with shots of the quiet, peaceful town during the day and a tranquil musical piece playing softly in the background. The montage was accompanied by Ryan's comments in a voiceover.

         "Sunnydale looks like your average American town. Great people, beautiful landscapes, clean parks... During the day, that is."

         The scenes of the town changed to the same ones but at night. Creepy music replaced the softer piece playing in the background as Ryan continued with his voiceover, speaking a little more spookily.

         "But when the sun sets... all is not so peaceful. Sunnydale is actually a mythical convergence point for other dimensions. Here, demons and vampires are free to roam and terrorize the townspeople."

         When the scene cut back to Ryan in the graveyard, he stood beside a red demon in a blue suit.

         Switching back to his normal, excited voice, he said with a wide grin, "One of these demons is our special guest, Sweet." Turning to the demon, he said, "Sweet, tell us about Sunnydale."

         "Aw, Sunnydale's the best!" said Sweet, as the camera came in for a close-up. "It's young, it's hip and it's happening! And all these humans about! Makes for quite an entertaining evening... never gets dull around here!"

         The camera panned out and Ryan asked Sweet, "So, Sweet, you called us at American Idol because you've got a special power that would interest us, can you tell us about that?"

         "That I do, Ryan. I can make people sing and dance their truest feelings against their will. And I want to use that power to help you find the next Sunnydale Idol!"

         "And how would you do that?"

         "Easy. I just need someone to pick up this necklace and read the incantation on it. And I have just the right person in mind. Then, the whole town will be singing and dancing. With a whole town to choose from, I leave finding the next *Sunnydale Idol* up to you," Sweet explained.

         Ryan faced the camera with a big grin and announced, "Great! Let's meet our contestants and the judges and get the necklace in place to start."

         "Sounds like fun..." agreed Sweet, an evil smirk setting on his face.

         Ryan didn't catch it as he added, "More Sunnydale Idol! After these words, don't go away!"