THE CHAMPION
THE CHAMPION
Across vast landscapes of a most beloved town called “Greenshield”, lived a young girl named Queen. Queen loved life, and like all seventeen year olds, she was a dreamer... If there was one thing she wanted more than anything else in the entire world, it was to sing.
Queen loved to sing. Oh she would sing all day if she could; in the shower, while dancing in the mirror, or doing chores around the house. It was the best outlet, her secret to the definition of having a great day. And in her dreams, on one of such days, she'd be singing a song she wrote.
ON STAGE:
Once upon a time, when a mic dropped (Mic drop sound), everyone eagerly waited, holding onto their seats.
MC: ( backstage behind a morbid looking curtain, whispering to another as the announcement was about to be made) “Did she make it? Who’s the next big thing?”
CROWD: (Cheers) “The Champion. The Champion. The Champion. The Champion!”
Oh how loudly the crowd anticipated!
On that certain day when she was crowned Queen,
She recalled how abrasive their words had been.
She was untouchable now, a remarkable vow, Second to none, she was the only one.
Up on that stage, titling her good name,
The crowd erupted, standing in her praise.
“She’s like a god now.”
You’re right but add -dess;
She’s a real one, not an actress
There she goes, faster than a bullet train
Who knew the “snail” wouldn’t get caught up in rain?
“Snail?”
“Did you just call Queen that?”
No. That’s what it said on the WordPress
“Oh. Did they leave a good review?
I should probably go and press ring.
This was not about the shiny bling,
A quick search from Google to Bing.”
The announcement was made;
She’s The Champion. The Champion. The Champion. The Champion!!!!
(The crowd goes wild. Someone passes out in excitement.)
(Queen suddenly wakes up from dreaming)
You see, Queen had everything she needed to achieve her goals. There was just one thing that seemed to stand in her way; getting there felt nearly impossible… And when morning dawned, it was time for school.
(Hums)
Will it ever be my turn?
A place to be, to sing my songs with glee
I watch the sunrise and dream of all that could be
(looks through her window, pulling down on the strings to let the light in)
Still is my heart, awaiting the appointed time
Birds fly, chirping through the morning breeze
The flap of their wings catching the sun’s golden glow
The sun’s golden gloooow (sings in realization, eyes wide open, ready to capture the moment)
(Pauses. Quickly grabs her phone from bedside desk)
QUEEN: If I turn just this much maybe… (clicks camera and takes a selfie with sunset in background)
(sings low looking at her selfie (emotional))
Will it ever be my turn?
A place to be, to sing my songs with glee
I watch the sunrise and dream of all that could be
QUEEN: (whispers to herself) Let's just have a good day today.
Young Maverick High School
QUEEN: (Smiling) Good morning to ya!
MS MAC: Good Morning. Now how are you doing young lady?
QUEEN: I'm doing well Ms. Mac. Thank you for asking. How about you?
MS MAC: Pretty good, pretty good. Don't forget we have a quiz today now little Ms. Lady.
QUEEN: No way! How could I forget?
MS MAC: (raises an eyebrow)
QUEEN: Nah, I'm just messing with ya. Or am I? ( Winks. Ready to make a run for it)
See you in third period class Ms. Mac.
MS MAC: Alright now. Go on.
MERCY: (Waving) Queen!
QUEEN: (Waves back) Mercy!
You're finally back! How did the performance go?
MERCY: (squealing) Ahhhh… We made it to State! We made it to State!
QUEEN: (Holding hands with Mercy, jumping with excitement) Oh my God. Oh my God!
STUDENT PASSING BY: Oh my God! We made it to State?!
(Crowd Gathers) We made it to State?! We made it to State!
ANNOUNCER OVER INTERCOM: HEY EVERYONE! YOUNG MAVERICK HIGH CHOIR MADE IT TO THE HIGH SCHOOL STATE COMPETITIONS!
QUEEN: We broke a record.
MERCY: Yes Queen!
ANNOUNCER OVER INTERCOM: We broke our first ever record of making it past regionals.
QUEEN: Show them how we do it Mercy!
MERCY: (Singing) You take the chance you get and you never let it go!
I've got you, and you've got me, so we always know
You take the chance you get and you never let it go
At Young Maverick High, we run with pride
You take the chance you get and you never let it go
From me to you
Just so you know
That's how we roll
You take the chance you get and you never let it go
Yeah! Yeah!
STUDENT 1: You take the chance you get and you never let it go
STUDENT 2: You take the chance you get and you never let it go
TOGETHER: I've got you and you've got me, so we always know
You take the chance you get and you never let it go
Never, Never, Never let it go
Never let it go
We give it all we've got
You and me
Together we can if we never let it go
So we take the chance we get and we never let it go
MASCOT: Yeah! (power punches up)
Bell Rings (Classes Begin)
Instrumental plays - on
(Quiz in 3rd period class scene)
MS MAC: (passes out quizzes) You may begin
After Quiz
LONDON: (seated behind Queen, leans in, whispers, hand shielding her mouth): I totally forgot we had a quiz today
QUEEN: (Startled, eyebrows raised. Shuts her eyes hard in disbelief)
HALLWAY
LONDON: (Following Queen) Do you need a ride home today Queen?
I know Mercy is back and all but I don't mind.
MERCY: (Joins) Hi London.
LONDON: Welcome back Mercy.
Congratulations on taking us all the way to State competitions.
MERCY: Well, thank you my lady.
And I hope you took good care of Queen for me
LONDON: You know it
(Whispers) She's been awfully quiet ever since that quiz in third period
QUEEN: (Stops at her locker) You know I'm right here guys. I can hear you.
MERCY & LONDON: We know (both laugh)
MERCY: So how is the new student among us liking it at Young Maverick High so far?
LONDON: Other than it being my second school in three months, I got to meet you guys and my god… what are the chances we have our lockers together like this? (Smiles)
MERCY: This is where Queen and I met freshman year. We've had the same lockers ever since.
LONDON: I still think it’s insane I got the locker right next to you guys like it was meant to be. (shapes out heart with hands)
(They all laugh)
QUEEN: Alright guys, time to part ways but i’ll see you again (bows with books in hand)
MERCY: See you
LONDON: Gonna miss you (shapes out heart with hands)
(Queen leaves)
LONDON TO MERCY: Does she seem a little down to you? Today’s quiz wasn’t too bad
MERCY: (pauses while closing locker) I'm sure she'll let us know (closes locker)
AFTER SCHOOL
MERCY: (Over the phone) Queen, is something wrong? London and I didn't see you after school today
QUEEN: Sorry Mercy, I went home in a hurry. My eyes were burning red from the lack of sleep.
MERCY: And you walked home?
QUEEN: (Smiles) Yes, Yes, I walked home.
CLOUD: (Yelling across the hallway) Queen Greyson! Queen!
MERCY: Is that Cloud? Is Cloud back home?
QUEEN: Uhh… yes (rubs head)
MERCY: (mumbles) Well, that explains why you've been distant
CLOUD: Queen Greyson!
QUEEN: What do you want, Cloud? I'm on the phone
CLOUD: (At doorway) Mom's gonna be home any minute now. Make sure you take out the trash. I'm heading out
QUEEN: (low, tired tone) Okay Cloud
CLOUD: Leave the door open. I'll be back late
QUEEN: What happened to your keys?
CLOUD: Don't know. Gotta go
QUEEN: HEY! (Grabs door key off desk by bedside)
Here, take mine!
CLOUD: Okay, I'm leaving now. I'm going outside
QUEEN: (touches head) Ah…
MERCY: Finally
Spring break isn't till next week. She's home early
QUEEN: She has her ways. I should get some rest now. It's already 7:19 pm
MERCY: Okay
See you at school tomorrow
QUEEN: (Lays down in bed facing the ceiling. Yawns. Sighs. Eyes slowly close. The sound of breathing. End scene)
FRIDAY, MARCH 13TH, 2026
2:00 AM (Queen wakes up. The sky is clear. Panics, thinking she's late for school)
2:20 AM (Queen checks time, ready to leave for school. She realizes and jumps back into bed. Takes a deep breath in))
(Sings) Breathe
Just breathe
It’ll all be okay
Just another day, shaded a little more blue
But tomorrow the sun will rise again
The weather man said there was a chance of rain… (falls asleep)
6:48 AM (Alarm goes off. Queen rides her bicycle to school)
Young Maverick High School:
History Class (Ms Mac passes out quiz results)
London 98
Queen 95
LONDON & QUEEN: (Show each other their results. Both hold back laughter)
2:45 PM (School Closes)
MERCY: (At rehearsals for YMHS choir, receives text from Queen)
“Walking home today. London's joining the school's swimming team! Super excited for that Diva!”- Queen
3:11 PM (Queen arrives home. Doesn't find door key and remembers she gave it to Cloud)
*rings doorbell*
(No one answers)
QUEEN: (checks the second floor window from below)
Cloud! Cloud Greyson, are you up there? (No one responds)
CLOUD: (Sitting on the porch step. Receives text from Queen)
“HI Cloud, are you home yet?
I can't get inside the house at the moment without the house key” - Queen
2 Hours Later
QUEEN: (Receives text from Cloud)
“I'm not home” - Cloud
QUEEN: (Typing… deletes)
5:15 PM
CLOUD: “Won't be home for another hour or two. Sorry”
5:20 PM
“And I saw your boyfriend at the mall with a blonde today”
QUEEN: “My boyfriend? Who?”
CLOUD: “Dyce”
QUEEN: (Typing… deletes. Receives text from Mercy.)
“Just got done with choir practice. And yes, London told me about her joining the swimming team. She's so cool” - Mercy
“Do you have some time today? I'd like to ask a favor pretty please ????” - Mercy
QUEEN: “Mercy ??
I'd do just about anything for you.”
MERCY: “What? What are the exceptions?”
QUEEN: “Unknown ??”
MERCY: “My goodness. Don't scare me like that ????”
“I'm coming over before your unknown becomes known”
QUEEN: (Texts group chat) Happy Spring Break to my “Charlie's Angels”
LONDON: Happy Spring Break Guys! See you this weekend!
QUEEN: (Singing)
You are the best parts of my day
Unlike anything I've ever known
Sisters made along the way
Of a future with stories yet untold…
6:12 pm (Mercy Arrives at Queen’s. Queen approaches her car)
MERCY: “Queen. Did you just get home?”
QUEEN: “No, I don't have my key”
MERCY: It’s unlike you to not have it with you
QUEEN: (Gives a soft defeated smile)
MERCY: Okay. Okay. Let's go already
(Queen settles in the passenger seat)
(Mercy turns up the music)
MERCY: Remember this one?
QUEEN: How could I forget?
(Queen sings along to “Who's Afraid Of Little Old Me” by Taylor Swift)
(Mercy Joins in)
MERCY: Queen, why didn't you join choir with me again?
QUEEN: (Voice low) Schedule Conflict
MERCY: (Smiles) Your excuses still suck nectar
(They Arrive at Mercy's)
QUEEN: What favor did you want to ask of me? (Queen's stomach grumbles)
MERCY: Let's go in first and get something to eat. (Both laugh)
(Inside Mercy's Home)
MERCY: My parents are out of town for a business event. They'll be back by Sunday. You can sleep over if you want.
QUEEN: (Smiles) Does this have anything to do with the favor you'd like to ask my dear Mercy?
MERCY: Maybe?...
(Worried tone) Something happened. One of the lead singers in the choir mysteriously fell ill after regionals. She even threw up. The doctor said it was food poisoning. Some of the girls were worried a rival team may have been behind it. As it stands now, we're barely holding on for State Competition.
QUEEN: What?! Impossible!
MERCY: No one else knows. I was hoping you’d do me a favor by standing in until all was clear. I already talked it over with Bridget. She begged me to ask you. So please say yes. (Puppy eyes?)
QUEEN: (Tries to hold back laughter) Okay
MERCY: (Jumps in excitement) Yes!
(Runs off to grab musical sheets and lays them on living room table)
MERCY: Okay, please don’t freak out.
QUEEN: There’s more?
MERCY: Uhh… Uh… We have our performance for the State competition scheduled on the 16th and 20th of this Month, with final announcements to be made on the 25th.
QUEEN: What? What? That means it starts in like… (counts with hands) three days?
MERCY: (Looks Away. Mumbles) You already said yes.
QUEEN: What? (Laughs out loud) Okay. Okay. A promise is a promise.
Let me text my mom to let her know
MERCY: Great, I'll text Bridget and Trich to let them know you'll be performing (overjoyed)
(Text screens)
QUEEN: She said Cloud will pick me up after. (completes text)
Okay. Done.
MERCY: Done.
(Mercy gets Queen up to date on State Competitions. They practice a few songs)
11: 05 PM
(Cloud picks up Queen)
CLOUD: (Complains) I can't believe mom told me to come pick you up. When will you get your own car? You already have your permit. Everyone your age is driving their own car and working a regular job
QUEEN: (Rolls eyes) Do you have my keys? (Voice clearly needing rest)
CLOUD: (Looks surprised) Yeah, here.
QUEEN: Thank you.
CLOUD: I've got some water in the back if you need it
QUEEN: (Looks. Grabs one) Thank you Cloud
CLOUD: So you singing again or something?
QUEEN: (Smiles. Catches herself. Hesitant) No, I'm just helping out.
CLOUD: Oh Okay
(Awkward Silence on drive home. Queen takes a sip of water)
(Arrive at Queen’s 11:21 PM)
SATURDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2026 - Spring break 2026 Begins
10:15 AM
YMHS Choir Practice Room 115
AUSTRICH: Again from the top! (Pauses)
Wait (Stretches neck)
Apologies everyone
You there, in the back (Points). Don’t think I don't see you
If you don’t want to be here, the door is open
Okay? Good. Thank you everyone for your patience. Again from the top! (Gestures with hand)
(Singing “Beautiful Things” - Benson Boone)
10:25 AM
AUSTRICH: Beautiful! Beautiful! Break Ten
(Seeks out Mercy) I still can't believe it. Is Queen really coming?
(Dyce overhears.)
MERCY: Yes!
AUSTRICH: Do you know how hard I tried to get her to join the choir?
MERCY: (Smiling) Alright. Alright. I'm as excited as you are but let's not ask for a mile after the inch. Let's not push it Trich.
10:27 AM
(Queen Walks in with London. Dyce is mesmerized)
(London clocks it. Giggles)
AUSTRICH: (Jumps and claps in a three second excitement bout. All heads turn. He catches himself. They laugh)
(Calmer voice) Queen, it's nice to finally meet you again
(Takes her by the hand. Dyce is startled. London clocks it)
(Dyce sees he's been caught. Keeps his cool. Turns his attention from the handholding after its release to looking at Queen. Releases breath he didn't realize he was holding. Smiles)
AUSTRICH: Where are my manners? It's nice to see you again Queen (Hugs Queen)
(Dyce squeezes hand into fist, looks visibly troubled)
QUEEN: It's nice to see you again too Trich. Thank you for doing me the honors
AUSTRICH: The pleasure is all mine. (clears throat) I mean the pleasure is ours
DYCE: (Suddenly appears next to Trich) Hello Queen. Welcome, and thank you for joining us
(Both hesitant to touch. Trich realizes something seems off)
LONDON: (breaks ice in time) Alright guys, State Competition is in two days
QUEEN: (looking at Dyce) Yes
Dyce: (Smiles)
LATER THAT DAY (Trich's Phone Call)
AUSTRICH: Something's going on between them, I just can't put my finger on it.
BRIDGET: Who?
AUSTRICH: Queen and Dyce
BRIDGET: (Laughs) You'll find out soon enough honey
AUSTRICH: (whispers) Okay, I have to go now babe. Sending out the Tech list for the upcoming performance for the High School Choirs State Competition.
(Pauses) I don't want to go though. I miss you
BRIDGET: Stop being so cute, my heart is about to jump right out my chest.
AUSTRICH: You're the cutest baby. I love you. Please take good care of yourself
BRIDGET: (Smiles) I love you too Trich. Go get ‘em!
MONDAY, MARCH 16TH, 2026 - YMHS PERFORMS
(London, and Mercy's parents; Gloria and Seth attend)
Mercy, Trich, and the YMHS Choir Perform “Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone
(“I've found a girl my parent's love…” Trich looks at Queen)
(Dyce and Queen's eyes meet. There's fear)
**Rivals see that Bridget is not around. Let their guard down**
(YMHS choir rest on Tuesday. Begin more practice in YMHS Choir Practice Room 115 on Wednesday)
(Dyce always shows up early for practice so he can see Queen walk in)
FRIDAY, MARCH 20TH, 2026 - YMHS FINAL PERFORMANCE
Queen (YMHS choir secret weapon gets solo with Mercy and Trich)
(Trich's dream of singing with Queen comes true)
The YMHS Choir Perform “I Was Here” by Beyoncé
SATURDAY, MARCH 21ST, 2026 - Spring break 2026 Ends
The YMHS Choir was announced as the winner of the High School Choirs State Competition.
“It didn't take long for news to spread about Queen and the YMHS choir. There was no doubt why they won. However, internet trolls from rival schools and fans found their way into Queen's social media circle, and before anyone could figure out what was going on, Queen stayed offline.”
Some of the comments read:
“They only won because she’s new and we hadn’t heard her sing before” (2 Likes)
“She doesn’t even drive” (10001 Likes)
“She’s unemployed” (800 Likes)
“Go make some money!” (1001 Likes)
“Please join The Champion” (135700 Likes)
Other than clips of the performance floating over social media, a petition was made for Queen to join The Champion ( A new summer singing show where contestants competed singing their original songs given the same theme)
(And if you can’t write your own songs, you get a chance to showcase another artist’s songs for the entire season, although you're less likely to win.)
SUNDAY, MARCH 22ND, 2026 - The Mall
(London, Mercy, and Queen go to the mall to celebrate winning State Competition)
ANGEL AND JAY’S ICE CREAM SHOP AT THE MALL
MERCY: Hello Ms Angel, we’d like to place an order please
ANGEL: Hi there lovely ladies, congratulations on winning the state competition. The toppings are on the house
(The girls look at each other not believing their ears) : Thank you so much Ms Angel
(Mr. Jay pokes his head out from the back, looking at the customers and slips away)
DYCE’S SHOP SETUP
JAY: You doing good there Dyce?
DYCE: (wiping down photo booth machine) Yes Dad
JAY: Brought you a banana pudding shake with popping boba pearls ( Hands Dyce a small cup of ice cream)
DYCE: Thank you
JAY: Ah, I think I saw some young ladies from your school getting ice cream at the shop
DYCE: (eating ice cream) Oh really?
JAY: I heard Queen performed
DYCE: Yeah, I told you that already Dad
JAY: Oh, that’s right. I just heard the young ladies telling your mom that as well.
(shuts one eye) Queen was there too.
DYCE: (pauses) Dad, please hold onto this for me
(hands dad ice cream) I have to go use the restroom. (slips away in a hurry)
JAY: (proud look) That’s my boy.
ICE CREAM SHOP
MERCY: I’ll have the strawberry cheesecake flavor, whipping cream and cookie dough for the toppings
QUEEN: And I’d like the chocolate shortcake flavor with chocolate mousse whipping cream and semi sweet Magnum chocolate chips
LONDON: Vanilla for me, whipped cream and welch golden gummies for topping please
ANGEL: Absolutely! I’d love to make that for you, and I'd also love to try out these flavors, they sound so good
(shuts one eye) Maybe Dyce will help me try them
QUEEN: Dyce?
(Dyce appears)
DYCE: Hi mom, taking a break now. Can I get a banana pudding shake with some popping boba pearls?
ANGEL: (Winks) And whipped cream
DYCE: (Smiles)
QUEEN: Dyce?!
MERCY & LONDON: (Avoiding Queen’s eye contact. Holding back laughter)
DYCE: Hi Queen, it’s nice to see you here
QUEEN: MY DYCE?! (Realizes what she just said)
(Looks around. Mercy and London are already out the door dying of laughter)
DYCE: (Sudden hoarse voice) Yes, your Dyce
(clears throat, willing his voice back to a normal volume) Yes, this is my parent’s shop Queen. How could you forget?
QUEEN: Forget?!
What? Do you know how long I've had ice cream here?
DYCE: I know. I served you ice cream once here, when we were in 7th grade.
QUEEN: (remembers the boy from that day) That was you?
Really? Wow!
DYCE: Yes, it was me.
Now I work at the photo booth and shirt design printing machine here at the mall.
Wanna come over and take a look?
QUEEN: (Looks over for Angel, she’s not there though) Uh… okay
(Angel appears with ice creams. London and Mercy come back inside)
QUEEN: Uhh… guys, I’m gonna go see Dyce’s shop
LONDON: Oh, is it the photobooth?
QUEEN: You know about it?
LONDON: Yeah, I saw Dyce at his photobooth the other day when I came to the mall
QUEEN: (Recalls Cloud mentioning seeing Dyce with a blonde. Relieved it was London)
MERCY: He’s had it for a while now. He told us about it during choir practice.
LONDON: Yeah, it’s really cool, especially when you add in the shirt design printing shop
DYCE: (Smiles) Thank you for the compliment London
MERCY: We’ll grab a seat at the usual corner and wait until you return
LONDON: Yeah, so take your time. It’ll take a while to finish this ice cream
QUEEN: (Notices. Eyes wide) That was your order? When did you make it a large?
DYCE: We should go now Queen. It’ll be rush hour soon
(They leave)
MERCY: Doesn’t he close and open shop whenever he wants?
LONDON: (Laughs) Only for Queen
DYCE’S SHOP SETUP
**snap and capture duo**
DYCE: Welcome. You finally see the shop. It’s been waiting for you
QUEEN: I see you’re a great salesman. It’s beautiful
DYCE: (From left to right) This is the Shirt design print shop, and it’s connected to the photobooth. The main idea is that you take a picture at the photobooth and print it on a shirt. But you can also just bring your own design to get it printed on a shirt. For some flexibility you know.
QUEEN: How did you come up with this idea, Dyce? It’s brilliant! (Explores computer device)
DYCE: (“I was thinking about us. About a chance like today.” is what he really wanted to say)
It just came to me, like a dream. (Smiles)
(Next, they go into the photobooth. It’s somewhat of a tight space)
DYCE: Over here in the photobooth is where the magic happens. Not that the entire process isn’t magical
QUEEN: (Laughs)
DYCE: (Pauses. Admires) Alright, check this out. This button here extends the photobooth to fit a family size of up to five and 2 pets.
Try it.
QUEEN: (Sets down chocolate ice cream on the desk. Clicks button. Hears extending sound like a vending machine) Wow!
DYCE: And you can slide the camera to adjust to the center, both manually and automatically
QUEEN: (Looking at Dyce. Distracted.)
DYCE: (Avoids looking till… (clicks button again for couple booth))
(Finally make eye contact) Wanna take a picture?
QUEEN: (Smiles) Yes
DYCE: (Not looking away, maneuvers and sets up timer for photo. Takes less than 5 seconds twisting dial)
Ready? We have to take the picture in 5 seconds. (Still looking at each other)
**********
ICE CREAM SHOP
MERCY: I think Queen should sign up for “The Champion”
LONDON: I second that. Did you see the comments under the performance video? They love her
Wait a second. But “The Champion” only does original songs on the show
MERCY: Queen writes her own music
LONDON: (Gasps) No way!
MERCY: Yes way! Even so, you don’t have to write your own songs to sing on the show.
LONDON: How is that?
MERCY: Say if I wrote my own songs, Queen could go on the show singing my songs but it could only be my songs for the entire show to keep things fair.
LONDON: That’s… wow… I did not know that. There’s no way Queen would turn that down now, right?
MERCY: Mm… (eating ice cream) Let’s hope not. You know how she can be
LONDON: Maybe Dyce can help
MERCY: (Laughs) You’re having way too much fun Ms. London
LONDON: It’s so obvious though. He has the biggest crush on her
DYCE’S SHOP SETUP
*****
(Memory flash snaps Queen back to reality)
(She’s unemployed… she doesn’t even drive…)
MERCY: (Breaking kiss) I… I can't
I’m sorry Dyce (leaves)
DYCE: Queen? Queen?!
QUEEN: (runs off)
DYCE: (Back in the booth, looking at the pictures they just took. Sighs. sees Queen’s ice cream. takes a bite. whispers) But I love you.
ICE CREAM SHOP
QUEEN: (Stops at door, catching her breath. Goes to the restroom to wipe down her tears. Comes back like nothing happened)
MERCY: Time to go?
QUEEN: It's time to go
LONDON: (Referencing Taylor Swift and her own breakup) “You know, when it’s time to go…”
MERCY: Your ex was trash for what he did London
LONDON: Thank God it’s funny now (They all laugh. Queen, not so much. Sentimental)
QUEEN: (Waving) Goodbye Ms. Angel
ANGEL: You’re leaving already?
QUEEN: (Smiles) Yes, Ms. Angel. See you again!
JAY: (Comes out from the kitchen) Till next time young ladies
QUEEN: Goodbye Mr. Jay ??
NEXT MORNING
QUEEN’S HOME
(Queen sees text from Dyce; “I’m Sorry.”)
DYCE’S HOME
(Dyce hoping for a response from Queen. Sighs)
(Sings “One foot in” by Trevor Jackson and gets ready for school)
LATER THAT DAY AFTER SCHOOL
(Queen and Dyce avoid each other at school)
(Queen goes online, responding to a few comments. Gets brutally wrecked by the responses. Turns off her phone and cries)
Some comments read:
“She can’t go anywhere without calling someone with a car”
“What seventeen year old doesn’t have a job?”
“Go make some money!”
“Is she even from Africa, what shows?”
“She thinks she can just get up and become a star after one song? Is she crazy?”
FRIDAY, MARCH 27TH, 2026
9:00 AM
MERCY: (Texts Queen) So have you decided on “The Champion yet?” Everyone and their mom want you to go.
QUEEN: (Sees text and cries silently. Facedown on pillow. Her dreams were finally within reach, however, nothing was as she imagined it. Well, except for that kiss with Dyce)
5 Minutes Later: (replies) I want to, but I'm not sure anymore. I changed my mind
(Turns phone off)
MERCY:(Types…) What? Then change it again. Are you actually okay?
(Message doesn't send. Calls)
VOICEMAIL: “Your call has been forwarded to an automatic voice system *beep* “Queen” is not available. At the tone, please record your message. *beep*”
MERCY: Uh uh… oh no she didn't (picks up her car keys)
QUEEN’S HOME
CLOUD: (Walking past Queen’s door, scrolling through her phone) You're trending all over “Greenshield” social media Queen. You're going to be a STAR (exaggerates with hand gestures. places hand over mouth to stifle her laughter)
CLOUD: (Steps into bathroom) Queen! Did you just use up all the hot water again? Why can't you just wait your turn
QUEEN: (Frustrated. Gets up, standing at the entrance of her bedroom door) I have to wait to take a shower now? Huh?! You know what Cloud, ever since I can remember, you always told me to wait my turn. Well, you know what?! I'm done believing any of that! Wait my turn? No, you wait, or get out of my way. Because of you I waited so long for nothing! There is no waiting in this life. It's mine and I can shower whenever I please, you hear that?!
(Slams bedroom door shut)
CLOUD: (Pauses. Surprised) What?! How dare you talk to your older sister like that? I'm going to tell mom when she gets home. You need Jesus.
(Walks into the bathroom, steps back out again.)
Go to church! (Slams bathroom door)
QUEEN: (Crying in her room. turns the phone back on. receives text messages from Dyce. Their pictures. Cries harder)
DYCE: (See message has been read. relieved) She’s Okay
QUEEN: (Sees missed calls from Mercy. Receives text from her Mom)
“The remodel crew are going to be working on the shower tomorrow around 12pm, so be sure to shower before or after so you don't get surprised when they show up” - Mom
QUEEN: (replies) “Okay Mom. Thank you.”
MERCY: (Arrives at Queen’s. Rings doorbell. Cloud answers)
CLOUD: (opens door) Queen! Mercy’s here
QUEEN: (Gets up and immediately locks bedroom door. Texts Cloud) “I don’t want to talk. Please tell her to come another time”
CLOUD: (receives text) Ah, she just texted me. Wanna see for yourself?
(Shows Mercy message)
MERCY: (Cloud let’s Mercy in. She walks to Queen's bedroom door. It’s locked. Knocks) Queen, I know you're in there… (Pauses) Where's the girl who was singing along to Taylor Swift with me?
QUEEN: (No response)
MERCY: (leaves. texts London: “SOS”)
(Queen gets some space, only seeing Mercy and London at school)
(She starts journaling again)
“To bell a truce or not to; There once was a girl who was feeling distant from her world. They said she was crazy, words that floated in the air like confetti. At first sight, it made her laugh out loud.
So she went on a stroll, about a lap or two when she sat down on a bench.
“How is this real life?” she wondered. When she looked around and looked again, it was almost unbelievable. The one place she had stayed for so long barely recognized her. It's like the caged bird that finally flew out of its cage. Every step, every encounter, every hello had her asking questions of her own.
“What's going on?” She'd asked her family.
“There’s nothing going on, just relax.” They'd say.
It could have flown over her head. She could have acted like she didn't care, but she wasn't made out of stone. So she made the water fountain her wishing well as a joke. It turned out the joke was on her. Something really did go on.
Had she lost herself?
No way, she had just found it again.
What did she do? Based on her surroundings and the people who walked by, she saw that she was the odd one out, at least that’s the impression it gave. The Africans had their outfits, the Americans had their accents and perhaps even the way they portrayed themselves to the world. So what about her? She was American as well, and an African with very little to show according to where arrows were pointed. She didn't forget that either, despite the stereotype. There was some truth to it, wasn't there? The foods they'd prepare at home, the warm smell of her mother's Jollof rice, or her dad's interesting way of cooking light soup in different ways. All the little things she loved about her culture; a culture she had gotten to know more about.
Was writing what took her away from it all? Or was she now understanding what it meant?
To choose between her songs, and the world in her eyes... She glanced at the water fountain again.
On she went, writing a song; because somehow she knew she'd have to leave it be for a while.
“You don't know how I feel holding onto a feeling so real
You turned all my darkness into light
You're the only one who makes me feel this strong
Would you say it back?
If I said I loved you tonight?
Would you calm the tides of my heart's aching song?
I'm tossing and turning, praying for a miracle
I don't want to cry tonight
If only you'd let me
I'd give you everything
I'd say that I'm sorry, but you're the one for me
If only you'd let me
If only you'd let me
I can't seem to let this feeling go
Tried shaking you off like an afterthought
With the wave of my hand but you're my invisible magic wand
Even when I leave, I'll be running right back
All the ones who say we won't last
They don't know what it's like, holding like a prayer a love like ours
You're all that I want
Hands together, down on my knees, hoping fervently
Would you say it back?
If I said I loved you tonight?
Would you calm the tides of my heart's aching song?
I'm tossing and turning, praying for a miracle
I don't want to cry tonight
If only you'd let me
I'd give you everything
I'd say that I'm sorry, but you're the one for me…”
My mom said everything's going to be fine… And she's right, everything always does turn out fine. I just gotta keep going. I've heard many times that dreams come true…
I saw a shirt today that said "courage cannot erase our fear, courage is when we face our fear" and it got me thinking about my own doubts. I am capable, I know that. I just know I didn't realize just how capable and strong I could be. I looked up at the night sky
Are the stars closer or just shining bright?
If wishes came true, all the moving things up there would turn into a shooting star every night
It's an uphill climb, and these days have got me asking if it is a crime to love wanting to sing this much. One thing's certain, I need to get my own car. The good news is, I finally got a job. I'm not so sure about “The Champion” anymore when it's clear I have a lot of fixing to do in my own life. My needs, I see them everywhere; these moving vehicles… A car would lessen my problems… I have to get one this year, by any means necessary, legal of course.
(Queen gets a job and saves up for a car)
Witness 1: I saw Queen today. She was riding her bicycle.
Witness 2: “She had a bicycle the whole time?”
Witness 1: Yes, we're close neighbors so I see her now and then.
Witness 3: Wow, who said she disabled her account again? Let me find the comment. I saved it for later just to see.
Witness 2: It was “ userminisculetrash_419” I remember because I was furious when I saw the comment, then I reported it.
Witness 3: “Account disabled”
Witness 1: That's ironic
Witness 2: So does anyone know if Queen will be participating in “The Champion”?
(Silence. They look at each other)
Witness 1: No clue
Witness 3: Me either
Witness 2: No idea, but I'm saving up for tickets if she does. Some of the comments were horrible to her yet she's still living her life. I love her.
TUESDAY, MAY 19TH, 2026
LONDON: (Arrives at Queen’s)
Hi Queen. We haven't hung out in a while so I thought I'd stop by. How are you doing? What have you been up to?
(Both sitting on the couch. Avoids mentioning the mean comments after finding out)
QUEEN: (Smiles) I'm doing great actually. I'll be getting a car soon. That's what I've been up to. A beautiful Hyundai Tucson if possible. Jeeps are popular around here too. Or a Ford truck. Who knew there were so many options to choose from?
LONDON: (Laughs out loud) That sounds more like the girl I know. Remember my first day at school?
The sole of my left shoe came undone like three steps after I walked in. Some of the students noticed and laughed. And me dragging my feet made it even more obvious. You were the one who came up to me and offered me those African slippers you said were made with cloth. I already told you this but I had also gone through a horrible breakup I was still healing from. You were like an Angel sent from heaven. I guess what I'm trying to say is, don't ever feel like you can't confide in me or even Mercy. She was upset when you kept your distance from us, and even more when we found out about the mean comments toward you on social media. You just kept it to yourself. How do you think it made us feel?
QUEEN: I'm sorry
LONDON: No, that's not what I meant. Don't apologize. I somewhat understand why, but it's always good to talk to someone when you go through these things. I never told you this part; my breakup was so horrible I almost died, but until I talked to someone about it, it felt like the end of the world when it was only the end of a chapter. Queen and I, we care about you in a way sisters do. So please, don't ever do that again. You'll always get the space you need but don't drive yourself crazy over internet trolls.
QUEEN: (Fakes a smile) Ah… but I'm okay now London
LONDON: (Sings first verse of “Bigger” by Beyonce) “Know that you're excellent… (whispers) Rise… No, I'm not just preaching, I'm taking my own advice (Ends note) ”
QUEEN: (teary eyed) You can sing?
LONDON: (Laughs) Only a little. Just for you.
(Emotional) Don't cry. You're going to make me cry
QUEEN: (Emotional) Ah…. No, something just fell in my eye
Thank you London (They hug)
WEDNESDAY, MAY 20TH, 2026
YMHS Choir Room 115
(Queen and London enter choir room)
(Mercy changes solo song once she sees Queen)
(Sings “Read All About It” by Emeli Sandé)
(London hits record)
(Dyce has a sad look on his face but smiles once Queen smiles at him)
(Mercy nods at Queen to pick up the song… “There’s no need to be afraid, I will sing with you my friend”)
(Queen grabs London's hand. London passes the phone to Austrich. She Joins in singing… Oh oh oh oh…. Mercy has a surprised look on her face. London can sing)
(Austrich falls in love with all three. Bridget agrees)
(Song ends. Queen and Mercy hug)
(London sees that Dyce has a sad look on his face but smiles)
(Queen and Mercy step outside the choir door. The rest, excluding Dyce and London, pretend not to be interested but close in on the door once it shuts)
DYCE: How is she doing?
LONDON: She's a tough cookie
DYCE: That's my girl
LONDON: (Smiles) You better be good to her, else… (shows fist like she’s about to throw it. Dyce doesn't flinch)
DYCE: (Glances at Queen through glass frame of door) Forever.
LONDON: My God. Now that's where I draw the line. Spare me the details. You have my blessing geez. (Laughs out loud)
OUTSIDE CHOIR ROOM 115 DOOR
QUEEN: I'm sorry for pushing you away Mercy
MERCY: And I'm sorry for not realizing sooner what happened. I gave them a piece of my mind, those internet trolls. London did too. They don't call her London the blondie for no reason.
QUEEN: What? Oh my God
MERCY: Yes. Yes. Yes, we did. And then we went to church on Sunday to pray for forgiveness because we didn't hold back.
(Pauses) You didn't actually believe what they said, did you?
QUEEN: Of course not
If I listened to what people said all the time, I wouldn't be here right now
(Laughs) And guess what?
QUEEN: I'm going to join “The Champion”
MERCY: (Laughs) You changed your mind? Are you going to change it again?
QUEEN: (Laughs) No, it's set in stone.
MERCY: (Squeals in excitement) Queen! (Hugs her. “Love Surge”)
(Pauses) But why did you not want to do it? You were all for performing at the State Competitions
QUEEN: Because you were there Mercy, that's why I didn't even think about it
MERCY: But I am going to be there
QUEEN: Well, yeah. In the audience. It's different. You won't be there to hold my hand.
MERCY: (Gasps) Did you just say that out loud? You're such a baby (both laugh hysterically)
MERCY: (As soon as they enter room 115, yells) Queen will be signing up for “The Champion” everybody.
RAZAK: Let's goooo YMHS!
DYCE: (Smiles at Queen. She smiles back)
(Bell Rings. Queen and London Leave)
LONDON: Queen, you should work things out with Dyce after everything. He really likes you.
QUEEN: (Doesn't say much. Ponders)
LONDON: I can give you a ride to the mall after school.
QUEEN: (Nods Yes. Smiles) Okay
(Pauses) Thank you
(They part ways to their final classes for the day)
AT THE MALL:
3:45 PM
(London waits at the ice cream shop)
QUEEN: (Approaches Dyce's Shop Setup) DYCE?
DYCE: (Cleaning inside the photobooth. Pauses, thinking he's going crazy hearing Queen’s voice out of nowhere)
QUEEN: Dyce? Are you in there?
DYCE: (“That sounded too clear to be a daydream.” Hurries out. Sees her. Sets down wiping cloth)
Hi Queen
QUEEN: Uh… Hi Dyce. I owe you an apology for how things ended between us last I saw you here
DYCE: It's alright. I understand.
QUEEN: It's just that there was a lot going on and I…
DYCE: Queen
QUEEN: And I… I…
DYCE: Queen. It's okay. I like you just the way you are
QUEEN: (Surprised)
DYCE: We can take things slow if that's what you want. I don't mind. And you should know you can always call on me no matter what you're going through.
QUEEN: (Smiles) Thank you Dyce, but I don't think I'm ready just yet.
DYCE: Ha… (passes hand through hair) That's alright Queen, I'll wait. However long you need, I'll always be here. You know where to find me.
QUEEN: (Smiles) Thank you Dyce
DYCE: I like the sound of my name falling from your lips
QUEEN: Oh my God (Laughs out loud)
DYCE: (Smiles) Wanna come inside?
QUEEN: (Raises an eyebrow)
DYCE: (Laughs) You'll never have to worry baby. I am a man of my word.
QUEEN: (Cups her cheeks) I'm blushing. Okay. Okay. (They get in the booth)
DYCE: You know, I still had one more thing to show you about the shop. (Takes out a small red box. Hands it over to Queen)
QUEEN: (Opens the box) Our pictures
(All of a sudden, she feels and hears a sound like an elevator going up)
Your shop. It's moving. It has wheels?
That is SO cool!
DYCE: (Shuts one eye) I own it you know
QUEEN: What's that? What's that eye thing you just did? (Laughs)
DYCE: (Smiles) And now you finally know everything about your future boyfriend's shop.
(Drives Queen around the mall. Drops her off at his parent's ice cream shop where London is waiting, parking his shop at his usual spot on that side of the mall)
(London can't believe her eyes. The shop on wheels is basically like a transformer. She takes pictures and tells Mercy all about it later that day)
(Queen and London leave)
DYCE (Looks at Queen. Bites his lip. Sings “Won't let me leave” by Chris Brown)
(Follows till he sees them (London & Queen) step out of the mall’s doors. Song ends.)
FRIDAY, JUNE 5TH, 2026
(Queen signs up for “The Champion”)
CAR DEALERSHIP
FRIDAY, JUNE 12TH, 2026
(Queen purchases her first car with her savings from work)
THURSDAY, JUNE 25TH, 2026
THE SUMMER SONG SHOW “THE CHAMPION” SEASON 3 BEGINS
MC: Welcome to The Champion
Your favorite summer show
Where it is…can I hear it?
CROWD: (Chants) HOT. HOT. HOT.
MC: That's right. The coffee's (points at Kofi, one of the panel of judges) hot. The weather is hot. And the seats are hot in here!
Can I hear you say it one more time?
CROWD: (Chants) HOT. HOT. HOT.
MC:The first theme of the night is… drum roll please… Beginner's Luck!
All the way from “Greenshield”, Give it up for Queen everyone…
QUEEN'S FIRST PERFORMANCE
There’s no need to be afraid
I know that I’m on my way
However long it took
I stood tall all on my own
When nobody knew my name
Or the heart of my songs
There’s no need to be ashamed
Today is a brighter day
I was built to last
I can’t believe I ever doubted myself
No more hiding, I’m drowning out the noise
I’m… I’m… (coughs, touches her throat like she’s losing her voice)
(Someone shouts “Oh no, she’s stalling!”)
(She looks into the crowd, someone’s holding up a sign that says “Shut Up!”)
No, no one can stop me now (she’s singing louder, exceptionally well… determined)
I’m answering my calling,
Who knew that this one dream would have the world talking
My flickering light, turned into power
There’s no need to be afraid
I know that I’m on my way
I stood tall all on my own
Even when they made fun of my start
And I became the bud of the joke
That past is behind me now
Today is that brighter day
There’s no need to be afraid
I know that I’m on my way
I stood tall all on my own
I did the work, I aced the test
And all the songs that I wrote
It’s too late to give up now
Today is my brighter day
MC: Performing next is CJ from Star City
CJ'S FIRST PERFORMANCE
They say that I may be a pacifist,
But my flow is punching like the stone that dealt Goliath,
when it comes to the darkest hats
And If I'm hardworking, why am I still unemployed?
Audience: True that.
They called me an Associate so much, I remembered the Bachelors
But wait... I mean the show, I was just a genius gone broke
Your local protean writer out of her shell
Yes, my words are my shield of justice
Swift, sending word out,
Bigger than any bully,
Got the big bosses in high places
watching as I'm steering this ship
Like yes, it's a brighter day
Of course, I'm legit,
when I write, I don't miss
Every line's on Angels wings
Chasing my dreams, I know, it's priceless
Don't need no budget when I'm calling every shot
They said I looked like medusa
I could have the whole world at my feet
But life is too short, can't waste it angry at the world
I recall Mary Go Park, when the sign read, “no ducks…”
I sat on that green bench, I was laughing, flabbergasted, playing “Luke or Duck”
Because the moment I showed up, those ducks were everywhere
Alright, it's late and it's cold
I can't afford to eat a wrap at the moment, so let's call this a rap
SPECTATOR 1: What? Why would she say that?
SPECTATOR 2: Nah, Nah… It was a joke
(Crowd breaks into laughter, some emotional)
BACKSTAGE: (Queen meets a fan. The one holding the “Shut Up” sign. He rushes towards her showing off the sign. He's speechless. Turns sign around “Your Voice is Unreal.”)
FAN: My cousin works for the show. I love you Queen. I can't believe I get to meet you like this. My God, I think I'm going to cry. (Runs off to the restroom)
FAN: (Talking in mirror) You fool, we said we weren't going to blow it. And why am I crying? She's so pretty. (Cries)
SPECTATOR 6: Ah, do you mean Queen?
FAN: Yes, she's been through so much and still smiles like an Angel. She's my hero. (They hug)
SPECTATOR 7: (cries) Me too. (Joins the hug. They all turn looking at one more person.
SPECTATOR 8: Don't look at me. I'm team CJ all the way.
MC: …On this show, the contestants always bring the heat!
As you know, we always have a guest perform their original “elevator pitch” on the show, dropping theme clues in the final round for our audience in the crowd and at home. And tonight, all the way from Phenx City, we welcome Young Megalodonis.
YOUNG MEGALODONIS: (In pink, bedazzling outfit) It matters not what haters say. Their daily mantra is to hate anyway. Vixens, and vipers, and their cool looking outfits. Like a litter of kittens, they’re purring, not roaring. They hiss all they want, quite cute and romantic.
I come in peace, right hand to my chest; my badge of honor, my shining emblem. Even in the winter breeze, their words were appalling. Much time they dedicated, just for me. Their sudden rumbling appearance, a groovy be-be-be-beat to my dancing feet. (Does the hip hop 3 - Step)
MC: Alright Alright, the boy's got it in him
A round of applause for our opening act everybody. Thank you for gracing us with your talent Young Megalodonis.
Now that you the viewers are clued in, let the show begin.
Queen's Final Performance
(With YMHS Choir)
Forever’s not long enough,
I call it ephemeral,
And if this is all we’ve got,
Then it was magical.
I don’t know about tomorrow,
but I’ll tell you one thing;
I had the best time resisting the devil with you.
They say good things must come to an end,
So today we’ll be living it up,
Like Hallelujah,
Who cares what the critics say,
We are the priceless winners of today;
We’ll raise the roof, and our voices high,
Saying, forever’s not long enough.
Our forever’s not long enough,
It’s ephemeral,
And I know that it sounds comical,
We’re laughing out loud, we made our mark
I don’t know about tomorrow,
but I’ll tell you one thing;
I had the best time resisting the devil with you,
They say good things must come to an end,
So today we’ll be living it up.
Like Hallelujah,
Who cares what the critics say,
We are the priceless winners of today;
We’ll raise the roof, and our voices high.
Our forever’s not long enough,
I call it ephemeral,
ephemeral.
MC: Queen, you took us to church. How did you come up with the song?
QUEEN: (Smiles. Looks for Dyce in the crowd) It came to me… like a dream.
CJ's Final Performance
(With Dapper Yellow Squad Choir)
There was no probable cause, at their attempt at hectoring
Their words fell like snowflakes in the cool winter breeze
I looked through the window, poised and stoic
Call me wise Nestor, young and heroic
Look where the past led your wandering feet,
Chasing your tails, you were hoping we’d meet
Obnoxious guests, I’m too far out of reach
This life is great, it pays to practice what you preach
Alleviate your stress, you’re here with much drama
Come any further and you’ll get your pending Karma
Long ago in Troy, Hector was the greatest warrior
They took his great name and they turned it sour
Right behind, offended, was the glistening truth
Pacify her with honesty and she enlightens too
Congratulations, you get your second chance at redemption
But only if you pledge your undying probity to me
Alleviate your stress, you’re here with much drama
Come any further and you’ll get your pending Karma
Long ago in Troy, Hector was the greatest warrior
They took his great name and they turned it sour
Right behind, offended, was the glistening truth
Pacify her with honesty and she enlightens too
Pacify her with honesty and she enlightens too
Pacify her with honesty and she enlightens you
SPECTATOR 4: Some randoms tried to bully her over the internet, it just made her pen game sharper.
SPECTATOR 5: This song is as catchy as hell is hot. Jesus Christ!
MC: It's been a long journey, and the show is coming to an end. Winners will be announced WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12TH, 2026
You have till then to send in your votes. Tune in next week to find out who “The Champion” is! Goodnight everybody. (Audience applauds)
You decide who the winner is by WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12TH, 2026
And the winner is: Ms. Catherine Jones! Give it up for your new Champion "CJ"
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