(The Invitation artwork | Credit: Ryan Maynard)
Before Saturday's The Invitation kicked off, Slay the Stage's seven finalists were in sequester, cut off from the venue, and unable to communicate with their friends and family.
Sat across from each other in a circle, they would wait for their name to be called to the stage to pick an envelope.
"There was some speculating as to what would happen to us," said Christine of the nerve-wrecking change to the format.
Lynn had an idea - for the singers to hold hands, and go around in a circle each saying what this competition has meant to them.
"We learned more about each other. We're growing as artists in such a positive, loving environment," said Corey of the experience. "We agreed that we're competitors, but we all support one another."
It was completely unplanned, and happened during one of the most tense moments of the season.
"This 'Trial by Slayer' has forged a bond that I hope will be lifelong," said Cecilia, who was touched by the experience. "My heart was swelling to three times its normal size. It brought me to tears."
In a competition with such high stakes, it's hard to imagine a more supportive environment for 7 strangers with so much on the line.
"We have bonded and have become family - not just friends," said Cecilia.
But every family has their problems.
Cecilia would end up cursing the competitors with no words on the screen in order to collect $300 and avoid the Spotlight - a move that weighed heavy on her heart after such an intimate moment with her fellow competitors - it remains one of the most strategic moves of the season.
Luna had wanted a healthy musical connection with people in her life.
"This [moment] was a manifestation of that for me," said the alternative pop singer. "It felt so good to connect before the show and share what wishes and messages we had for each other."
As the contestants took turns going up on stage, they would return to the circle, unable to speak about what they had just experienced.
"Cecilia was worried I'd overheat since I hid under my shawl after the envelope bit," said Christine.
Christine's face would have said it all. The Immunity-winning champion opened an envelope that would send her into the Spotlight - and ultimately, home - later that evening.
"It was a very emotional and real moment," added Corey, "and we could all feel that."
With a shocking Double Elimination announcement following the Invitation Twist, Lynn would join Christine, Corey and Cecilia in the Spotlight - and unfortunately be eliminated with Christine at the conclusion of The Invitation.
The Semi Finals are coming up next, with only five singers remaining in the competition. Who's journey will be cut short, and who will make it to the final four?
Find out Saturday, August 19th at 8PM! Only at Keglers and live via livestream.
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