The Meg Chronicles

by Jonas Xerxes

This is a fanfiction series that takes place in a two year timeskip, after Meg and her best friends Roberta Tubbs-Brown and Courtney Quagmire graduated from Adam West High, they headed to LA and attend University life with four other girls as they take on the world, change it and explore new realities in their adventures in the West.

3. Training of the Mind, Body and Heart

The Meg Chronicles Season 1 Episode 3 – Training of the Mind, Body and Heart

[Shadow House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California] [August 2021]

(Morning came. The mood is eerily quiet. The Background Girls—Meg Griffin, with blue eyes, Hayley Smith with blue eyes, Roberta Tubbs-Brown, with brown eyes, Courtney Quagmire with violet eyes, Potala Sonora with amber eyes, Helen with yellow eyes, and Jeff Fischer with hazel eyes—sit around the breakfast table, slowly eating their cereal, toast, or sipping coffee with thousand-yard stares. Every sound—chewing, pouring, even the ticking of the wall clock—feels too loud. The TV plays softly in the background on LA Channel 1 News.)

Juan Cortez (TV): ...in breaking news, footage from last night at Narcisa Higuera University Park shows campus police and LAPD arresting the infamous Fuego Gang, identified as four suspects including the superhuman leader known as Ignacio El Fuego—real name, Ignacio Peña—after a violent confrontation. Witnesses describe a masked hero known only as Sarugami as the one who brought him down...

(B-roll footage shows Ignacio being dragged into the police van, his charred jacket smoking and face bruised. Police cameras flash. The image freezes mid-frame on Ignacio glaring at the camera, then—)

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: (grabbing the remote) Yeah, we saw enough. (clicks the TV off)

(Silence follows. They all look at each other, still reeling from the previous night.)

Potala Sonora: (breaking the silence, in awe) This is… bigger than the time all the Native tribes lit the signal fires together.

[Cutaway — United Fire]

(The SIERRA NEVADA MOUNTAINS at night. A young Potala stands beside a stoic Miwok chief, both watching a massive bonfire being lit.)

Miwok Chief: They will see this flame… from the Dakotas to the Everglades.

(Cut to the United States, night sky, and little dots of light—fires—spark across the country in rapid succession. One tribe even lights it with a flaming arrow fired from a horse mid-gallop. Potala watches with starry eyes.)

Young Potala: That's gonna trend.

[Cutaway Ends]

Hayley Smith: (quietly) Hey... I just wanna say I'm sorry. For not telling you guys about my magic or the spellbook sooner. I didn't want to freak you out.

Helen: (gently) Girl, we were freaked out.

Courtney Quagmire: Yeah, but not at you. At fireball guy with the murder eyes.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: Real talk though, we get it now. Everything changed. Fast. Can't blame you for not knowing how to say it.

Hayley Smith: (smiles, a little teary) Thanks, guys... seriously.

(Suddenly, a faint humming sound breaks through the calm. They turn toward Meg Griffin, who's staring at her open palm. A glowing, pulsing orb of ki has formed, flickering like a spark.)

Jeff Fischer: (eyes widening) Woah. Dude. What is that?

Meg Griffin: (stunned herself) …I think… I think that's my ki.

(The orb pulses again. A second later, it begins to grow rapidly—bigger than a basketball, then a beach ball—)

Meg Griffin: (alarmed) Oh crap—oh crap—nope too big too big too—!

Courtney Quagmire: (grabbing an aluminum bat from beside the fridge) FORE!

(—WHACK—She bats the orb out the open kitchen window. The orb sails into the sky and explodes in a massive golden boom, shaking the house slightly. They all sit in silence again, mouths agape, the room faintly glowing from the leftover ki residue.)

Potala Sonora: ...That was a nuke made out of vibes.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: You sure you just awakened that last night?

Meg Griffin: (catching her breath) Guess that confirms it… I need control. And if Hayley and I have powers… what if the rest of you do too?

Hayley Smith: Yeah. This can't be random. We all saw that fire dude. And Sarugami. This is real. Like, superhero real.

Meg Griffin: (nodding firmly) Then it's settled. We go train. Self-defense. Discipline. Control.

Courtney Quagmire: I could use some upper body strength. My cardio's all social anxiety.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: Assuming we don't end up with, like, laser eyes or rubber legs, this could actually be useful.

Helen: Let's go get our Black Belt Barbie on.

Jeff Fischer: I call dibs on learning that flying kick from Blood Fist V!

Meg Griffin: Then let's head to the Martial Arts House.

Potala Sonora: But what about Erika?

(All eyes shift to the empty seat where Erika Fujibayashi usually sits. The mood shifts again—subtly somber.)

[The Meg Chronicles Opening 1 – Road to Somewhere]

(The camera zooms in on sunset-lit Los Angeles skyline with towering skyscrapers and palm trees swaying in the breeze. The pink Corvette speeds down the Pacific Coast Highway, with Meg, Roberta, and Courtney in the car. Meg, behind the wheel, looks ready for the new adventure. Roberta is snapping a selfie while Courtney tunes her radio. The upbeat music kicks in as they drive off.)

"I was stuck in a world that never saw me,But now I'm free, yeah, now I'm flying!"

(The screen flashes with bold, energetic title cards: The Meg Chronicles!)
(Meg Griffin: A slow-motion shot of Meg in her new look—hourglass figure, wavy brown hair, and small oval glasses, flipping her hair back as she speeds into UCLA dorms with confidence. Cut to her in an action pose, super-powered punches knocking enemies down. Roberta Tubbs-Brown: Roberta stands strong and proud, crossing her arms in front of a DJ turntable with neon lights flashing behind her. She's seen battling villains with quick, smooth moves at a nightclub in LA. Courtney Quagmire: Courtney kicks off a skateboard ramp, flipping mid-air and landing perfectly as explosions go off behind her. She grins at the camera before dodging enemies with precision. Each of the new friends gets their moment to shine as heroes in this opening montage. Helen: Helen leaps into battle, kicking down a door as she leads the charge with her loyalty. She stands tall, ready to protect her friends with grace. Erika Fujibayashi: A shot of Erika battling frat boy terrorists and ninjas withswift swordsmanship. She's a fearless warrior, always stepping up when needed, standing her ground against those who threaten her new life. Potala Sonora: Potala, wielding a bow and arrow, stands tall in front of a sacred tree. She releases a perfect shot that hits an impossible target, showcasing her exceptional skills as a Miwok Native American hero. Haley Smith & Jeff Fischer: Haley, accompanied by Jeff Fischer, is seen charging into battle—Haley unleashing fire magic and Jeff using advanced technology to take down enemies. The mood shifts as the villains come into focus. Lady Porcina, a giant pig, towers over the city. She's dressed in a high-class outfit, wearing a diamond necklace, and is incredibly menacing. Meg and Porcina lock eyes in slow-motion—the rivalry between them clearly building. Popping are actual supervillains with superpowers, evil ninja clans, corrupted law enforcements. The camera zooms in on aconcealed frat leader, and his frat boy terrorist army. He is a sinister figure, orchestrating destruction with smug precision. His cynical laugh fills the scene. The girls are joined by their love interests, each with their unique abilities, adding a deep layer of excitement to the action-packed final battle.)

"No more waiting, no more hiding—The road is open, and I'm driving!"

(Fast-paced shots show the girls battling together—Meg, Roberta, Courtney, Hayley, Erika, Potala and Helen charged forth. Bravery written on their faces.)

"I won't turn back now—this is my story,We're not alone—we've come this far!"

(The screen slows down as Meg, Roberta, Courtney, Hayley, Erika, Potala and Helen with their love interests stand triumphantly on the UCLA campus. The city skyline glows behind them. They share a moment of victory, looking out at the horizon, ready for the challenges to come.)

(End of Opening Theme)

[Martial Arts House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

(The sun beams gently through the traditional wood-paneled windows of the Martial Arts House, located slightly uphill from the main campus. The place radiates peaceful energy, complete with rock gardens, shoji doors, and a dojo floor polished from years of discipline. The Background Girls—Meg Griffin, Hayley Smith, Roberta Tubbs-Brown, Courtney Quagmire, Potala Sonora, andHelen, along with Jeff Fischer, step inside. Their sneakers squeak awkwardly against the floor as their eyes scan the different training rooms. A couple of students perform fluid kata forms nearby, while others meditate in the garden. It's a whole other world.)

Jeff Fischer: (whispering, in awe) It's like we walked into an anime.

Courtney Quagmire: (already pretending to punch) I can feel my inner warrior princess awakening.

(A door slides open smoothly, and a tall, composed 23-year-old man steps out, dressed in a sleek, black gi with golden trim. His long dark hair is tied into a precise topknot. He bows once and speaks calmly with authority.)

Hiroyoshi Kunimata: Welcome. I am Hiroyoshi Kunimata, third-generation master of the Kunimata-Kenshin Martial Tradition. You have come seeking training?

Meg Griffin: (stepping forward with a slight bow) Yes, sir. We'd like to learn martial arts. For self-defense. Focus. Control.

Hiroyoshi Kunimata: (nods, eyes scanning each of them) Control begins with humility. Strength with intent. And power with heart.

(He walks over to a wall-sized mural behind him, and with a swipe of his hand, hidden panels slide open, revealing emblems and names of martial arts etched into bamboo plaques.)

Hiroyoshi Kunimata: Here, you may learn one of many disciplines. Choose what your soul calls to.

(Hiroyoshi gestures to the rows of styles)

Shotokan Karate – Strength through structure

Aikido – Redirection of force

Taijiquan (Tai Chi) – Internal flow and balance

Jeet Kune Do – Freedom through adaptability

Shaolin Kung Fu – Devotion to discipline and tradition

Ninjutsu – Stealth, tactics, and psychological mastery

Muay Thai – Power, endurance, grit

Capoeira – Grace through motion

Hapkido – Joint control and efficiency

Bajiquan – Explosive force and rooted stance

(The girls and Jeff each begin reacting to the list, eyes darting with excitement.)

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: Jeet Kune Do. I like the sound of freedom.

Hayley Smith: (eyeing Tai Chi) Balance might be good for my magic.

Courtney Quagmire: Do they have a style that involves hair whips?

Potala Sonora: (squinting at the Muay Thai plaque) I want elbows and knees. Real crunchy stuff.

Helen: Shaolin sounds cool. I like the robes.

Jeff Fischer: Ninjutsu. Obviously. Come on. I play Shinobi VIII on Nightmare mode.

Meg Griffin: (focused) Whichever one helps me control my ki best. I'll take the hardest one.

Hiroyoshi Kunimata: (smiles faintly) Then you will begin with Bajiquan, Miss Griffin. The art of impact through will.

(As the group begins to spread out and explore their chosen styles, a calm but clear voice speaks from the back of the group.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (softly) I'll pass.

(Everyone turns to look at her. She's standing still, hands folded in front of her skirt, gaze lowered but composed.)

Meg Griffin: Erika? You're sure?

Hayley Smith: (concerned) We're doing this together, remember?

Erika Fujibayashi: (offering a gentle smile) I appreciate it… but martial arts just isn't for me.

Courtney Quagmire: You sure? I mean, you're like one sad monologue away from your own magical girl arc.

Erika Fujibayashi: (chuckles quietly, shaking her head) I've made my peace with my path. I'll cheer you all on. From the sidelines.

Hiroyoshi Kunimata: (watching Erika carefully, then bowing slightly) Every warrior must know when to draw the blade… and when not to. You are welcome here regardless.

(Erika nods in thanks and quietly takes a seat by the window, watching the training begin with a distant look—one that hints at secrets left unspoken. A soft wind rustles the paper lanterns hanging around the outdoor courtyard of the Martial Arts House. The seven students have been split into different training spaces, each paired with a specialized martial arts master. Erika Fujibayashi quietly observes from a shaded bench, sipping tea, her expression unreadable. Bajiquan Dojo: Meg Griffin is in a heavy stance, fists clenched as she faces a stoic man built like a mountain. This is her assigned teacher, Master Wei Xun, a no-nonsense Bajiquan master with the voice of thunder.)

Wei Xun: Power is not force… power is focus. You want to wield your ki? Then aim your spirit.

(Meg breathes deeply, her stance tightening. She throws a basic punch — but it's off. Her balance falters. Master Wei slaps the back of her heel with a bamboo stick.)

Master Wei Xun: Rooted. Again.

(Sweating but focused, Meg tries again. This time, her ki pulses briefly around her fist.)

Meg Griffin: (gasping) I felt it…

Wei Xun: Then strike again. And feel nothing but the intent.

(Tai Chi Pavilion: Hayley Smith stands in a circular wooden deck surrounded by koi ponds, her arms flowing like water under the guidance of a serene, elder woman, Mistress Hua Lin, in pale blue robes.)

Hua Lin: The flow of life… is energy. We call it qi. You call it ki. Let it ripple. Let it move you.

(Hayley closes her eyes. Slowly, her fingers glow a soft teal as she moves through a Tai Chi form, her movements conjuring faint elemental wind.)

Hayley Smith: (smiling peacefully) This… feels right.

Mistress Hua Lin: (smiling gently) And this is only the beginning.

(Shaolin Courtyard Helen is already in deep training, drenched in sweat but determined. A Shaolin monk, Master Weng Tao, swings a wooden staff at her, which she clumsily blocks.)

Weng Tao: You are graceful. But you must be relentless. Again!

Helen: (panting, swinging back) I thought this was gonna be more… robes and chanting!

Weng Tao: (deadpan) Wrong tradition.

(Jeet Kune Do Room: Roberta Tubbs-Brown stands confidently in front of a woman, Instructor Lin Reyes, with short, cropped hair, a faded scar across her cheek. She circles Roberta like a predator with purpose.)

Lin Reyes: This style is freedom. No forms. Just adaptation.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: (grinning) Say less.

(Roberta suddenly lunges forward with a strong jab, then a spinning kick. Lin dodges it gracefully, nodding with approval.)

Lin Reyes: Good. I don't train cowards.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: Good. I don't do coward.

(Muay Thai Grounds: Potala Sonora is going ham, elbows and knees flying in a rhythm, striking thick pads held by a hulking Thai instructor is called Coach Khun Lek. Her braids bounce as she channels raw intensity.)

Khun Lek: Your ancestors must've been warriors.

Potala Sonora: (grunting between knee strikes) They were. I'm just trying to keep up.

(Ninjutsu Garden – Jeff Fischer is… trying his best. Dressed in a basic ninja outfit, he is attempting to sneak across steppingstones while his master, Master Jiro, an actual owl, watches from a tree.)

Jiro "The Owl": The shadow is your home. But not if you trip over it.

(Jeff immediately stumbles on a stone, screams quietly, and lands face-first in a koi pond. The fish scatter.)

Jeff Fischer: (spitting water) They made it look way easier in Naruto!

Master Jiro: (sighs deeply) Shadow clone yourself some dignity.

(Capoeira Circle: Courtney Quagmire is in the middle of a lively roda (circle), laughing joyfully as she flips and spins through a Capoeira sequence led by an energetic Brazilian master, Maestre Paulo Azul playing a berimbau.)

Paulo Azul: Capoeira is rhythm. Fight is dance. Express yourself!

Courtney Quagmire: (while cartwheeling) This is the first time I've sweat and loved it!

(Mestre Paulo grins, encouraging her to keep going. Courtney ends with a sweep that knocks a student over gently. She winks.)

Courtney Quagmire: Oops. My bad.

(Back at the shaded bench, Erika Fujibayashi watches her friends growing stronger, laughing, struggling, and striving. Her eyes linger on Meg, then drift to the Martial Arts House crest carved above the gates. She sighs, hands folded in her lap, hiding her emotions behind a practiced smile.)

[Shadow House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

(The living room lights are dimmed. The only sound is the soft humming of an electric fan and the low groans and sighs of tired, aching bodies. The Background Girls and Jeff are spread out on couches and bean bags, each draped in various poses of exhaustion.

Jeff Fischer: (groaning, flat on his back with an ice pack over his shoulder) I think my kidneys learned how to cry.

Hayley Smith: (rubbing her arms, lying across a futon) My bones are humming. Is that normal?

Potala Sonora: (cracking her back) My soul left my body at the sixth elbow strike.

Courtney Quagmire: (laid back with cucumber slices over her eyes) Yeah, you'll feel like this the first few days. Me and Roberta were dead meat when we started Meg's insane Quahog workout circuit.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: (arms crossed, slouched over a cushion) I thought I'd never walk again. And then that lunatic started adding weight vests and cardio before dawn. Girl's not normal.

(Camera pans to Meg sitting cross-legged on the kitchen counter, happily chomping on a tuna sandwich, barely even breaking a sweat.)

Meg Griffin: (grinning) Training is great! I feel alive! I could totally go another five rounds with Master Wei Xun right now.

(The others groan in response, too tired to argue.)

Hayley Smith: (turning to Courtney and Roberta) How does she do that? I mean… that was intense. And she's just… fine?

Courtney Quagmire: (shrugs, relaxed) Some people are born thrill seekers. Meg's one of 'em.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: (tired but honest) Yeah… no one can say that girl doesn't chase the grind.

(Later, most of the house is dark. Helen slowly walks down the hallway with a glass of water, wiping her eyes, preparing to crash for the night. As she passes by a half-open door, a soft sound catches her attention. It's… sobbing. Helen pauses. Her expression changes from groggy to concerned. She leans in, peeking through the crack of Erika's bedroom door. Inside, moonlight pours through the window. Erika kneels beside her bed, holding a picture frame in her lap. It shows a younger version of herself, beaming next to a proud Japanese police officer in uniform — her father. She clutches the frame to her chest, tears silently streaming down her face.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (in Japanese, softly) Otō-san… I still miss you. I'm trying to be strong. But I still hear your voice…

(Erika sniffles, brushing a tear away, eyes trembling with emotion. The weight of her grief is crushing.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (in Japanese, sobbing) I wish… I wish I didn't remember that day.

(Helen, frozen at the doorway, quietly steps back, a soft, worried frown forming. She presses her hand against the wall, processing what she just witnessed.)

[Flashback — No Training, But Ninja Guidance]

(Erika sits quietly with the others before bed, arms folded. Helen looks at her curiously.

Helen: You didn't train today. I figured you'd be all about martial arts.

(Erika hesitates. Her eyes lower.)

Erika Fujibayashi: I don't use my family's style anymore. Not since my father's… death.

(A long silence. She straightens herself and looks at them all with polite firmness.)

Erika Fujibayashi: Please… just respect that. I'm not ready.

(She stands up and, with a passing glance at Jeff, adds with mild sarcasm.)

Erika: (narrowing her glance at Jeff) Your timing was off by three seconds and you fell over your own shadow. Just so you know.

(Jeff, already defeated from training, groans again. Erika walks off to her room without another word.)

[Flashback Ends]

(Helen returns to the shared room with a heavy heart. Meg is already dozing off with one leg hanging off the bed, breathing peacefully. Helen slips into bed, eyes wide open, her mind still on Erika.)

Helen (quietly, to herself): There's something more going on with her…

(Helen turns on her side, staring into the darkness. Fade to black.)

[Shadow House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California] [August 2021]

The sunlight is barely breaking through the windows. The rest of the Shadow House is still asleep, except for three early risers. Helen, Meg, and Hayley sit around the small dining table with hot mugs of tea. A kettle whistles quietly in the background, and the warm scent of jasmine fills the air. Helen stares down at her tea, swirling it absentmindedly. Meg and Hayley exchange glances before Meg speaks up first.)

Meg Griffin: You've been quiet this morning, Helen. Something up?

Helen: (sighs and leans back, her face thoughtful but worried.) ...I wasn't gonna say anything, but... last night, I passed by Erika's room. She didn't see me, but... she was crying. Holding a picture. She kept whispering something in Japanese. I don't know what it was, but it sounded like she was saying "Father" over and over.

(Meg and Hayley both go quiet. The air grows heavier with unspoken emotion.)

Hayley Smith: …Erika?

Helen: (nodding) Yeah. I know she's tough and distant sometimes, but… that wasn't just a nightmare. That was pain. Like, real, buried pain.

Meg Griffin: (softly) I think I get it. I don't know the full story, but I remember some things. I know her mom's name is Kimi Fujibayashi. She was married to a police officer named Kenji Fujibayashi, Erika's dad. He died in the line of duty back in Daitō.

Hayley Smith: Yeah… I remember now. Kimi works as a florist back in their hometown. Erika's got a little brother — Heipachi — full blood. Kid's in high school and a total street fighter. Tougher than nails, from what I heard.

Meg Griffin: (nodding) The Fujibayashi family… they're private. Traditional. They own a dojo — just one — and keep mostly to themselves. After Kenji died, the people of Daitō didn't treat Erika right. Some pitied her… others looked down on her, like her father's honor was some kind of curse.

Hayley Smith: And two years after Kenji passed, this man named Yoshinobu Shiba came into the picture. You'd recognize him if you saw him — pure muscle, tall as a mountain, but soft as a marshmallow. He was a kendo champ and ran his own dojo before it became a chain franchise of dojos. He and Kimi fell in love, got married.

Meg Griffin: (raises an eyebrow slightly.) He the real gentle giant type?

Hayley Smith: (chuckles) Big time. They've got two more sons now — Yoshimitsu, five years old, and Masayoshi, the baby. I guess Erika's family grew again… but that doesn't erase what she went through.

(Silence settles for a moment. Each girl sips their tea in quiet reflection. Helen finally leans forward, voice calm but certain.)

Helen: So what do we do? I don't wanna overstep. But I also don't wanna ignore what I saw.

Meg Griffin: We don't push her. But we let her know… she's not alone. Not anymore.

Hayley Smith: Yeah. Whether she wants to talk or not, we just... be there. No expectations, no pressure. Just trust. That's what matters.

Helen: (soft smile forming) She's lucky to have us. I mean it.

Meg Griffin: (grinning a little) We all got our pasts. But now? We've got each other.

(The camera lingers on the three girls clinking their mugs lightly in solidarity, steam rising and sunlight slowly filling the kitchen. Outside, a new day begins. The group is all geared up now.Meg, Hayley, Helen, Courtney, Roberta, Potala, and a limping but determined Jeff are dressed in athletic wear or light martial arts uniforms, excited to continue their training at the Martial Arts House. Each one carries a new duffle bag or equipment they picked out yesterday — hand wraps, wooden practice weapons, water bottles, protein bars, and extra towels. Before walking out the door, Meg pauses and turns back. Standing near the living room bookshelf, thumbing through a stack of light novels, is Erika. Calm. Quiet. Distant, yet present.)

Meg Griffin: (gently) Hey… Erika. We're heading out. You sure you don't wanna come?

Erika Fujibayashi: (looks up, her expression unreadable, but not cold) I appreciate the invite, Meg. But no... I'm good. Martial arts and I… we're on a break.

(She looks to Jeff, adjusting his elbow pads clumsily and still carrying bruises from yesterday.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (to Jeff, calmly) Jeff... when you train today, try silencing all the noise around you. Focus on the rhythm — footsteps, breathing, anything that repeats. That's how you can anticipate movement. Ninjutsu is about perception, not power.

Jeff Fischer: (genuinely surprised, then bows clumsily) Whoa... thanks, Erika. I'll try that.

Erika Fujibayashi: (light smirk) Try not to fall on your face this time.

(The group chuckles lightly, the mood lifting. They wave their goodbyes and head out. Erika is left in the house alone. Erika settles into the couch with a cup of tea and opens a familiar light novel, the cover reading: "Re:Monster Volume 3.")

Erika: (gives a small sigh of comfort) Finally… time to relax. Last time I met someone from a light novel… things got weird.

[Cutaway — Erika Meets Gobrou From RE:MONSTER]

We see a flashback of young Erika (about 11 years old), walking alone down a quiet street in Japan in her school uniform. A group of four rowdy boys— classic shonen-style school bullies — block her path, mocking her silently with mean glares and laughter.)

Bully 1: Aw, the ninja princess thinks she's too good to talk to us!

Bully 2: Maybe we should teach her some respect!

(Suddenly, from the nearby shadows of an alley, a monstrous growl is heard. The bullies freeze as a hulking goblinoid figure steps out — Gobrou, the protagonist from Re:Monster, muscles bulging, glowing eyes, armed to the teeth with gear.)

Gobrou: …Hurt her, and I hurt you. Ten times worse.

(The bullies scream and scatter like cartoon characters, leaving dust clouds behind. Erika, surprisingly calm, looks up at him.)

Young Erika: Thanks… are you real?

Gobrou: (grunts) Maybe. Maybe not.

(He vanishes in the wind like a mysterious anime hero. Erika blinks.)

[Flashback Ends]

(Erika flips a page and chuckles to herself, sipping her tea.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (to herself) …That was a weird Tuesday.

[Marital Arts House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

(The scene cuts to a wide shot of the Martial Arts House-training grounds — a large outdoor space with open wooden floors, mats, dummies, posts, and training stations. Cherry blossoms float in the breeze. The Background Girls and Jeff return lined up and ready. They bow respectfully to their assigned instructors. Meg is with a master in Chinese Kenpo, working on explosive strikes and channeling her ki. Hayley is learning Bājíquán, focusing on powerful elbow and shoulder strikes. Roberta is tackling Muay Thai, trading brutal leg kicks with a tough, scarred instructor. Courtney is practicing Taekwondo, showing surprising grace in her high kicks. Potala chose Wrestling and Judo, flipping people twice her size and loving it. Helen trains in Jeet Kune Do, moving with flow and speed under a wise instructor. Jeff, now newly motivated by Erika's advice, is back in the ninjutsu class, trying to silently sneak up on a dummy. He steps on a twig and the dummy somehow punches back — right in the face.)

Jeff Fischer: (groaning, again) Why does everything hit back?!

(The rest of the group is progressing well, their natural instincts and personalities showing in how they adapt to their styles. As the sun climbs higher, sweat pours, laughter breaks out, and the journey continues. The dojo floor is a polished expanse of traditional wood, sunlight slanting through the high paper-screen windows. Hiroyoshi, wearing his master's robe and calm, focused demeanor, stands at the center with the Background Girls and Jeff all lined up in front of him, catching their breath from the earlier training. The dojo doors slide open with a crisp fwsshhh, and in walks a group of seven figures — six skilled martial artists and one very serious Akita Inu dog wearing a custom black gi with a red sash around his waist and a dog-sized martial arts patch. The Shine Housecrew has arrived. Hiyoshi Mashimoto – poised with calm eyes and white gloves; a master of Aikido, Kenjutsu, Bojutsu, and Yarijutsu. Malachi Duran – Muscular, confident, tactical; a master of Krav Maga. Rokuro Mashimoto – The Akita Inu, loyal and stoic, master of Taekwondo. Sun Zuan – Flowing, centered, and wise beyond his years; master of Northern Shaolin, Baguazhang, Tai Chi, Hung Gar, and Hou Quan. Go Jinwoo – High energy and slick, master of Taekwondo, Han Mu Do, Hankumdo, and Taekkyon. Matthew Mason – Cool, calm, and thunderous when he moves, master of Hung Gar. Kito Motosimba – The tall, strong Ugandan warrior, moves like a lion with calculating instincts, master of a rare martial art mimicking lion hunting and movement. The Background Girls and Jeff are thrilled to see their new friends at the training grounds. Hiroyoshi smiles and walks forward to greet his old friend Hiyoshi, both clasping each other's forearms in a deep, respectful hug.)

Hiroyoshi Kunimata: Still breathing fire, old friend?

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: (chuckling) Only when the students slack. You've still got the best floor polishers in the prefecture?

Hiroyoshi Kunimata: They volunteer now.

(Both men share a hearty laugh. The rest of the Shine House team gives polite bows and waves. The Background Girls and Jeff beam with excitement—except forCourtney, who immediately throws her hand up.)

Courtney Quagmire: Wait, where's Pouya? Don't tell me he vanished into a puff of drama club glitter again.

(Before anyone else can answer, Rokurosteps forward, adjusting his tiny gi collar with his paw.)

Rokuro Mashimoto: (seriously) Pouya is at the Athletic Complex. Practicing archery with the Archery and Drama Clubs.

[Cutaway —Perfect Bulls' Eye, Hidden Excitement]

(We pan across the archery field. Several Drama Club members with matching berets and capes are dramatically studying the Archery Club members firing arrows at distant bullseyes. Most land in the blue or red rings. Then there'sPouya Zangane, calm, stoic, and focused. He shoots five arrows—thunk-thunk-thunk-thunk-thunk—each one striking a bullseye with robotic precision.)

Drama Girl #1: (awed) He's like… if Legolas was in a noir film.

Drama Boy #2: He makes it look too easy.

(Pouya lowers his bow with a casual shrug.)

Pouya Zangane: (softly) Hitting a target that doesn't move? That's fine. Hitting a moving one... that's when it gets fun.

[Cutaway Ends]

(Everyone nods at Rokuro's explanation, impressed by Pouya's consistency. Then, Kito, hearing the subtle hesitance in the air, tilts his head.)

Kito Motosimba: (gently) Is… Erika with you today?

(A slight frown forms across the Background Girls' faces. Meg speaks first; voice soft but honest.)

Meg Griffin: She… didn't come. Personal stuff. She's safe. Just… not ready.

Hayley Smith: (adding quietly) We're just giving her space. Being here for her when she's ready.

(Kito closes his eyes, absorbing the weight in their words. Then, with steady resolve, he nods.)

Kito Motosimba: Understood. I'd like to visit her, if that's okay.

(Moved by his sincerity, the group nods. Jeff even pats Kito on the shoulder awkwardly.)

Jeff Fischer: She's at Shadow House. Room's by the bookshelf. Just… don't spook her."

(Kito gives a small bow and quietly leaves the dojo. Hiroyoshi steps forward, now energized.)

Hiroyoshi Kunimata: Alright! Let's put your new skills to the test. Nothing too harsh — just sparring. Learn, adapt, enjoy.

(He begins pointing and pairing each student with a Shine House counterpart.)

Meg vs. Hiyoshi

Roberta vs. Malachi

Potala vs. Matthew

Helen vs. Rokuro

Hayley vs. Sun Zuan

Courtney vs. Go Jinwoo

Jeff Fischer: (pumping himself up) Alright, who am I fighting—wait, huh?

(The dojo doors SLAM open again, smoke billows in, and out steps... a wacky, overly hyper Shinobu from Ninja Nonsense, dual-wielding wooden daggers and grinning like a cartoon.)

Shinobu: Helloooooo! I was told there'd be sparring and snacks!

Jeff Fischer: (deadpan) …You gotta be kidding me.

Shinobu: (twirling daggers) Don't worry, newbie! I'll go easy on you. Unless I get bored~!

(Meg and Hiyoshi square off, both barefoot and brimming with focused energy.)

Meg Griffin: (smirking) Been a while since I had a good match like this.

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: (smiling back) I was just thinking the same thing.

(They clash in a fluid exchange—Hiyoshi redirecting Meg's punches with smooth Aikido deflections, while Meg uses fierce footwork and elbow strikes to stay close. Hiyoshi twists into a smooth disarm, Meg counters with a hip toss, and both roll out, energized.)

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: (grinning) You adapt fast!

Meg Griffin: (panting but smiling) You're really fun to fight!

(Roberta plants her feet in a Muay Thai stance—knees and elbows ready. Malachi circles her, calm and analytical. They clash. She lands a perfect knee feint into a hook elbow. He blocks but smirks.)

Malachi Duran: Your clinch and knee work is clean. You've trained hard.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: (blushing slightly) Oh—uh, thanks...!

(As they continue sparring, Roberta fends him off with a powerful push kick and mutters to herself.)

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: (quietly) Stop it. You're with Federline Jones. Long distance or not… focus!

(She blasts in with a crushing elbow combo, focused again. Helen, the big-hearted Golden Retriever Background Girl, faces Rokuro, the noble Akita Inu. Despite being a dog, Rokuro takes his form seriously—light on his paws, barking once as a form of challenge. Helen bows politely.)

Helen: Let's have fun, boy!

(They spar with impressive synchronicity—Helen using Taido-inspired motion, while Rokuro spins into aerial Taekwondo kicks with precision. During a moment of stillness, the two lock eyes and wag their metaphorical tails. Inside, both are thinking.)

Helen: (smiling, Inner Monologue) What a majestic, good boy…

Rokuro Mashimoto: (smiling, Inner Monologue) She has the spirit of a warrior! Excellent!

(They both leap in, mirroring each other in joyful, high-level combat. Hayley charges with power and enthusiasm, but Sun Zuan calmly steps aside, parrying with open-palm Tai Chi movements. When Hayley presses again with wild spinning kicks, Sun Zuan traps her momentum and sweeps her to the mat with minimal effort.)

Sun Zuan: (stoic) Your energy is good. But it's raw.

(Hayley grunts, picking herself up. She dashes again. Sun Zuan redirects her once more, gently.)

Sun Zuan: Push further. There is more in you. Seek it.

(Hayley clenches her fists, eyes blazing. The fire is lit. She lunges back in—not wild but determined. Courtney launches fast jabs and whirling baton moves with flair. Jinwoo remains solid, blocking and waiting. He strikes only when necessary—swift and clean.)

Go Jinwoo: (serious) Your spirit is strong. But you lack patience.

Courtney Quagmire: (frustrated) I can't just wait! I gotta hit something!

(Courtney charges in—and is lightly countered and floored.)

Go Jinwoo: Even if it's hard... the best opening is the one you wait for. Not force.

(Courtney glares… then nods slowly. She gets up again, a little calmer. Potala bounces, fists raised, light on her feet. Matthew, thickset and full of power, meets her with Hung Gar's grounded might.)

Potala Sonora: You're big, but I'm quick!

Matthew Mason: (chuckling) And I'm heavy like my mom's meatloaf.

Potala Sonora: (laughing mid-spar) Wait, what?

Matthew Mason: Exactly! Surprise them. Don't just rely on your rhythm—change it!

(As they trade blows, Matthew mentors her through feints and angle changes, guiding her to trust instincts and space.)

Matthew Mason: Feel the weight shift. When I step back—what's that mean?

Potala Sonora: (grinning) You're setting up a trap.

Matthew Mason: Bingo. Now break it.

(Cue upbeat, chaotic music. Shinobu is flipping off the walls, running in circles, and occasionally attacking Jeff with flying kick-flops and noodle slaps. Jeff is wildly trying to keep up.)

Jeff Fischer: (sweating, confused, holding a rubber duck for some reason) Why are you dual-wielding chopsticks?!

Shinobu: Because SPIRIT!

(Cut to Shinobu in a dramatic wind-pose, holding a mop and a banana as nunchucks. Cut to Jeff getting randomly flash-banged with confetti. Cut to Jeff successfully blocking a real strike—then realizing Shinobu's vanished.)

Jeff Fischer: (looking around) Wait—where'd she—

Shinobu: (hanging upside down from a rafter) Peekaboo!

(Jeff screams. Cut to him curled in a ball while Shinobu fans him with a paper fan.)

Shinobu: You've got promise, Jeff-kun! Also, I stole your socks.

[Shadow House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

(Night. The air is calm. Candlelight flickers, casting soft shadows along the sliding paper doors and dark wood interior. A gentle wind hums outside, rustling the trees. Kito kneels across from Erika, who holds a small wooden box filled with old keepsakes—hairpins, a faded photo, a pressed lily.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (softly, eyes distant) My mother used to braid my hair with these pins every morning. My brother… he always complained about the tangles in his own. And Father…

(Her voice falters. She swallows, fighting a wave of emotion. Kito says nothing, allowing silence to speak its language.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (smiling through pain) When he was alive, there was always music in the house. He had a flute he carved himself. Said it sounded like wind through bamboo when the world was kind.

Kito Motosimba: (gentle, reverent) He sounded like a great man.

Erika Fujibayashi: He was.

(A pause… then something shifts. The flame flickers hard. Erika lifts her head sharply.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (serious, low) …Do you feel that?

(Kito closes his eyes. The flicker of emotion vanishes, replaced by deadly focus. He kneels still; his breath slows. He taps intoboth spirit and nature energy. His breathing syncs with the night air.)

Kito Motosimba: (low, with purpose) Two… fast. Light feet. About to strike.

(In a blink—CLANG-CLANG-CLANG! Kito's hand moves like lightning, swiping a nearbybokken (wooden sword)to deflect a flurry of kunaispinning through the window. Erika'swakizashihums as it leaves its sheath,cleaving through a volley of arrowsin perfect form. BOOM! Two ninjas clad in black and purple garb burst into the room, smoke trailing behind them. Erika meets one head-on, clashing blades in a blinding dance of steel. Kito faces off against the other—a stoic figure in a raven mask.)

Raven Mask Ninja: (in Japanese) Stand down, foreigner. You're not the target. Get in my way, and you die like the rest.

(Kito's eyes narrow. His body lowers into a grounded stance—Mgomo Wa Simba (Lion Strike). His movement is low, powerful, full of coiled fury.)

Kito Motosimba: (coldly) She's not dying tonight.

(Their clash begins. The ninja's strikes are fast, precise—but Kito's bokken roars. Every movement is thunderous—sweeps, parries, feral pushes—Kito holds him at bay, never overcommitting. Meanwhile, Erika holds her own—but her enemy is faster, more brutal. Cuts appear on her arms and sides, her breathing growing ragged.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (panting) Poison…

(Kito sees her stumble. His opponent lunges—butKito explodesinto action.)

Kito Motosimba: (growling) No more.

(Helaunches forward,shoulder-tackling Erika's opponent and crashing through the floorboards—they tumble down a narrow stairwell, smashing into a largewood stakewith bone-cracking force. The ninja slumps, unmoving. Kito pants, body trembling, breath like a lion's growl. Back above, theremaining ninjasenses the death of his partner. He looks up—and seesErika, bloodied but standing, blade in hand. Beside her stands Kito, body radiating wild power, eyes glowing faintly, and letting out a low, primal ROAR that echoes through the wood like thunder.)

Kito Motosimba: (roaring again, louder) RAAAAAAAAAHH!

(The ninja staggers back, bravado shattered. He spins and flees into the shadows, vanishing. Erika sways slightly, catching her balance against the wall. Kito rushes over, kneels beside her, and gently checks her wounds. He brushes hair from her face with surprising tenderness.)

Kito Motosimba: (calm, low, repeating) I got you. I got you. I got you…

Erika Fujibayashi: (weak smile) You… you were amazing… thank you…

Kito Motosimba: (lifting her carefully) Don't talk. Just breathe. I've got you.

(Kito cradles her in his arms, carrying her bridal-style down the hallway toward the nurse's wing. As he walks, the moonlight spills in through broken paper windows. Outside, somewhere in the shadows, the enemy ninja disappears into the forest—wounded, afraid, and haunted by the roar of the lion who guards the girl with the spirit of a blade.)

[University Infirmary, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

(The room is dimly lit, filled with the scent of fresh herbs and soft glowing crystals hanging above. A natural tranquility pulses in the air. Erika lies in a cot, breathing steady, her cheeks flushed with warmth—not from fever, but from healing energy. Nurse Nuru Rukundo, a gentle, regal woman with vine tattoos that softly glow, hovers her hands above Erika's body. She hums low in Swahili as nature energy pours from her palms. A bowl beside her contains darkened, tainted fluid—the poison, now drawn from Erika's bloodstream.)

Nuru Rukundo: (warm, assuring) She's clear of the toxin. She'll need a few more minutes of rest, but she's strong. The spirit within her won't break so easily.

(Kito sits beside the cot, still holding Erika in his arms, never letting her go. His posture is steady, but his expression is tense—wrestling with emotions. His arms are tight, as if letting go might let something else slip too. Erika's eyes flutter open. Her gaze softens when she sees him.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (hoarse whisper) …You're still holding me…

Kito Motosimba: (blushing, quickly) S-sorry! I—I didn't want to let go in case you collapsed again! I mean—not like you can't stand on your own! I just—uh—

Erika Fujibayashi: (quiet smile) …It's okay.

(She leans her head against his shoulder a moment longer before slowly sitting up in his lap. Nuru gently nods and leaves them alone. The only sounds are the gentle rustling of tree branches through an open window. Kito and Erika sit beside each other on the edge of the cot, a quiet weight hanging between them.)

Kito Motosimba: (awkwardly scratching his head) I should explain something. When I fought that ninja… I almost—overpowered both of them. I—I didn't mean to go that far, but when I saw you hurt, something in me just… snapped.

Erika Fujibayashi: (nods quietly) I felt it too. I… remembered something. A part of me I tried to bury.

(A beat. Both look at each other, knowing something bigger is brewing.)

Kito & Erika: (at the same time) …I'm not who you think I am.

(They blink. A mutual realization lands. Erika clutches the edge of the cot. Kito breathes deeply, then moves first.)

Kito Motosimba: I'm not from Earth. I'm… I'm a Kugandan. From the planet Kuganda.

(Kito reaches behind his coat and gently untangles a golden, lion-like tail, previously wrapped and hidden. It says softly with emotion, not aggression.)

Kito Motosimba: (softly) My birth parents sent me to Earth as a baby… I don't know why yet, but I crash-landed in Tanzania, where the Motosimba family found me. Kuende and Nurisha raised me like their own—just like their own biological kids: Busara, Ujana, and Bavana. They loved me, no different than their blood. They made me feel human… even when I knew I wasn't.

(Kito looks away, half expecting fear.)

Erika Fujibayashi: Kito…

Kito Motosimba: I don't know everything about my alien heritage, but my martial art—Mgomo Wa Simba—isn't just from Earth. It's instinct. It's in me. I'm not just fighting for myself… I'm trying to find out who I really am.

(Erika is silent for a moment… then finally speaks, her voice quieter.)

Erika Fujibayashi: …I was born into a ninja clan. One of the oldest—Fujibayashi, from Iga. We've existed since the feudal era. In the shadows, guiding, protecting. (runs a hand through her long black hair, eyes distant) My father… Kenji… he wasn't killed by a normal criminal like the news said. He was slain in battle by a kage-level ninja. Someone who wants to unify all ninja clans under one iron rule—and rule Japan in the open.

(Kito listens, jaw tense.)

Erika Fujibayashi: They used their political connections to twist public opinion. The people of Daito… they didn't just hate my father's legacy. They hated me. Because I'm a Fujibayashi. I was chased, blamed, feared. Only my family—when we were together—made me feel safe.

(A pause. Kito watches her, eyes full of compassion.)

Erika Fujibayashi: I didn't want to tell anyone. I thought if you knew… you'd look at me like they all did. Like I was cursed. Dangerous. Something to be ashamed of.

(Kito blinks. Then, slowly—he smiles.)

Kito Motosimba: Erika… you're one of the fiercest people I know.

(Erika turns to him in surprise.)

Kito Motosimba: You've endured more than anyone should have. And you still stand tall. You're strong. You're kind. You fight for what's right, even when the world turns on you.

(Kito's tail flicks gently behind him.)

Kito Motosimba: (grinning) You're as much of a lioness as I am a lion.

(Erika's eyes widen, then she laughs—genuinely, softly. It's rare. It's beautiful.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (teasing lightly) You're really the worst at keeping secrets, you know…

Kito Motosimba: (mock insulted) Hey, I kept my tail hidden for years! That's skill!

She leans a little closer, her laughter fading into something quieter, more intimate.

Erika: You know… this is one of the reasons I…

(A pause. Her voice drops, almost a whisper.)

Erika Fujibayashi: …I love you, Kito.

(Kito freezes. Eyes wide.)

Kito Motosimba: (breathless) ...Wait, you—

Erika Fujibayashi: You're the first person who didn't try to fix me. Or fear me. You just… accepted me.

(They sit there in the silence, words lingering between them. Outside, the wind picks up softly, the moonlight shining on the two warriors who finally feel seen. The moonlight spills across the infirmary floor. A hush falls again between Kito and Erika. Her confession still lingers in the air like a heartbeat waiting for its echo.)

Kito Motosimba: (softly) You… love me?

(Erika doesn't flinch. She looks him in the eyes—vulnerable, open.)

Erika (gently): Yes. I think I've known for a while. You just made it easy to forget the world hates me.

(Kito, heart racing, swallows thickly. His tail curls behind him instinctively. He leans in, slow, hesitant—but Erika meets him halfway. Their lips press together, soft and unsure at first… then full of emotion, years of pain and acceptance blooming in a single kiss. His hand rests on her cheek. Her fingers tangle in his hoodie. It's the kind of kiss that says: "You see me. And I see you.")

[Shadow House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

(Later that night, Kito and Erika walk side by side back to the Shadow House, Erika's arm gently brushing against Kito's. Kito has hislion tail expertly hidden, snugly wrapped around his waist again like a belt. The whole squad is gathered downstairs, surrounding the crumpled remains of the Dead Ninja that Kito and Erika defeated earlier.)

Jeff Fischer: (wide-eyed) Okay… that is definitely a dead ninja in our basement. Anyone else feel like we skipped a few episodes?

(Meg, Hayley, Courtney, Roberta, Potala, and Helen all whip around as Kito walks in carrying Erika again—she's not unconscious this time, just resting. The moment freezes.)

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: …What the hell happened to you two?

Courtney Quagmire: (dramatic gasp, pointing) WAIT—WAAAAAIT. OH MY GOSH, YOU'RE A COUPLE NOW?!

(Kito and Erika both BLUSH HARD, glancing at each other awkwardly.)

Kito Motosimba: Uhh…

Erika Fujibayashi: W-we never said that…

Courtney Quagmire: (squealing) But you're not denying it either! AAHHHH! I KNEW IT! I KNEW YOU GUYS WOULD KISS ONE DAY! I OWE MEG TWENTY BUCKS!

Meg Griffin: (grinning) Pay up.

(The rest of the girls and Jeff are stunned—but quickly shift into big smiles and warm reactions.)

Potala Sonora: (softly) I'm happy for you, Erika…

Helen: (grinning) …Took long enough.

Hayley Smith: (still focused) Okay, lovebirds, cute stuff aside—can we go back to the whole ninja assassin and what the actual heck happened?!

(Erika stiffens. The room quiets down. Kito gently squeezes her hand in support.)

Kito Motosimba: (encouraging) You can tell them. They deserve to know."

(Erika nods slowly. She steps forward, taking a breath. Her voice is calm but steady.)

Erika Fujibayashi: I'm… not just a martial artist. My style… it's Iga-style Ninjutsu. My family comes from a ninja clan that's existed for centuries. The Fujibayashi Clan. We kept to the shadows, helped from behind the scenes… until someone decided we didn't deserve to exist anymore.

(The Background Girls and Jeff listen intently. The vibe is heavy but supportive.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (continues) My father, Kenji, was a police officer. Everyone thought he died from a criminal's bullet. But the truth is… he was killed by a kage-level ninja, the one trying to take over all ninja clans and rule Japan from the light. When he died, people in my town turned on us. Because I was Fujibayashi. They said I brought shame. Brought danger. I lost my friends. My home. My world.

(Erika's fists tighten. But her voice doesn't break. She's stronger now.)

Erika Fujibayashi: I never told anyone because I was afraid. I didn't want you all to hate me too.

(Erika looks up. The girls stare at her, moved. A tense pause—)

Meg Griffin: (deadpan): Well, now I feel terrible for that time I called you a "mystery emo ninja girl."

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: (grinning and wiping a fake tear) Girl, we already knew you were brooding. I just thought you were going full Sasuke mode.

[Cutaway – Broody Sasuke Moments]

Kid Sasuke Uchiha walks down a path. A classmate waves.

Classmate: Hey Sasuke, you okay?

Sasuke Uchiha: (scowling, eyes dead) …My clan is dead.

Girl: Oh… uh… wanna hang out—?

Sasuke Uchiha: (turns away, cape swishing dramatically) …Leave me alone.

[Cutaway Ends]

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: At least you're not walking around mumbling "I have to kill my brother" like that guy.

(The group chuckles softly. Erika can't help but smile through her tears. Then—)

Hayley Smith: (gently) You really thought we'd hate you for that?

Helen: (nodding) You're our friend, Erika. Our roommate. Our sister.

Potala Sonora: Nothing's changing that.

(The girls step forward and, one by one, wrap Erika into a warm group hug. Jeff hangs back, then awkwardly joins with a shy pat on her shoulder.)

Jeff Fischer: We got your back, ninja girl. No matter what.

(Kito watches them all, his heart swelling at the sight of Erika finally being accepted—for who she truly is. The girls are all camped out in pajamas, surrounding Erika like a council of queens. Kito's nearby, still blushing every time someone brings up the "couple" thing. Courtney is still scheming about flower petals and future weddings. Erika, finally at peace, smiles softly to herself.)

Erika Fujibayashi:(voice-over) I thought I had to carry my past alone. But I was wrong. I found people who accept me… love me… and I'm not alone anymore.

(The room is dim. A soft blue glow from the moonlight spills through the window. Erika is sitting on her bed, brushing her hair, now in a simple tank top and shorts for bed. The chaos of the day is gone. Peace has returned. Almost. A soft knock at the door.)

Erika Fujibayashi: …It's open.

(The door creaks open and Meg steps inside, wearing a comfy oversized hoodie and plaid pajama pants. She looks calm… but thoughtful.)

Meg Griffin: Hey. Couldn't sleep.

Erika Fujibayashi: (smiles gently) Me neither.

(Meg walks in, flops onto the bed beside Erika, legs crossed, her tone unusually soft and honest.)

Meg Griffin: …You remember all those times I asked you if you were crying alone in your room?

(Erika's brush slows in her hands. She doesn't speak, just waits.)

Meg Griffin: I always thought you didn't want to talk about it. That maybe you were trying to forget something horrible. But tonight... I get it. You weren't trying to forget. You were carrying it. Because you had to.

(Erika pauses, then nods. Her voice is calm, composed—almost too still.)

Erika Fujibayashi: It's not that I don't want to remember. I have to remember. For the lives of ninja like my father. For the ones who gave everything to protect others and were forgotten.

(A long silence passes. Meg doesn't rush to respond. She simply scoots a little closer, her voice warmer now.)

Meg Griffin: …You know, if you want to, you could talk about it. With me. Not because you have to. But because sometimes… it's okay to let someone else carry a little of it, too.

(Erika finally turns her head to look at her. For once, there's no defense in her eyes. No mask. Just quiet understanding.)

Erika Fujibayashi: …You really want to know?

Meg Griffin: (gently) I wouldn't ask if I didn't. I know what it's like… the pain you think no one else can understand. I see it in all of us—me, you, Helen, Hayley, Courtney, Potala even Roberta in her own weird way.

Erika Fujibayashi: (gives a soft, dry chuckle) …Okay then.

(Erika sets the brush down. Turns fully toward Meg.)

Erika Fujibayashi: (voice softens, almost a whisper) What would you like to know?

Meg Griffin: (smiling slightly): …Start from the beginning.

(The camera slowly begins to pan up as Erika begins to speak. Her voice fades as the soundtrack swells softly beneath. We don't hear her story, but we see the connection—the trust—between these two strong young women who have both seen more than they should have at their age.)

[Abandoned Warehouse, Los Angeles, California]

(A crumbling, graffiti-stained warehouse on the edge of the city. The area is eerily quiet, lit only by scattered streetlights and the occasional flicker of a busted lamp. Inside, torches line the cracked walls. Shadows move—masked figures in dark, crimson-trimmed ninja garb kneel in formation. These are the Inaba clan. At the center, in front of a large, sealed cargo door, stands their leader: RYOKUZA INABA – POISON SHADOW. Clad in dark ceremonial robes with toxic green serpentine patterns, his long hair is tied in a sharp knot. He doesn't move. His presence alone chills the air. Behind him are two high-ranking jonin-level kunoichi—silent, unreadable. The doors creak open—Shitaro, bloodied, shaken, and very much alone, staggers in. The moment he enters, the Inaba all lower their heads in respect. Shitaro drops to his knees, panting.)

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): (without turning) …Where is my son?

Shitaro (gulps, shaking): My Lord… your son fought bravely. We had located the target—Erika Fujibayashi. But she wasn't alone.

(Gasps from a few of the Inaba Clan ninjas. Poison Shadow's fingers twitch slightly.)

Shitaro: There was… a man. But not an ordinary one. His strength was… I've never felt power like that. His roar—it's still echoing in my skull. He was—he is—not human.

(Poison Shadow doesn't respond. The room grows heavier.)

Shitaro: (more desperate) I swear to you, Lord Poison Shadow, I barely escaped. The others… they were…!

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): So, you came back. You… survived!?

(Poison Shadow finally turns, revealing piercing, venomous green eyes beneath his shadowed hood. His face remains unreadable.

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): Where is Kurokami?

Shitaro: (lowers his head even more, fists trembling.) ...Dead. The man… he killed Kurokami. With ease. I didn't run—I—I thought I could lure help back to him. But it was too late…

(A tense pause. The rest of the Inaba ninjas' glaring stares were on a shivering Shitaro.)

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): (softly) And this is the truth?

Shitaro: (quickly nodding, fearfully) Yes! The truth! He was—he was—a monster!

(A long silence… Then, a cold breath from Poison Shadow.)

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): …The truth is behind you.

(Shitaro freezes. He slowly turns. Behind him, the two jonin kunoichi have moved silently, now standing close—too close. Their eyes narrow, expressions like porcelain masks.)

Inaba Clan Kunoichi #1: If this man was so strong, why is his corpse not with you?

Inaba Clan Kunoichi #2: Did you even fight beside Kurokami? Or did you run while he bled?

Shitaro: (stumbles back, hands up, panicked) Please—PLEASE! I didn't betray him! I SWEAR!

Poison Shadow: There's no need to fear me. I would never kill my own, Shitaro.

(Relief floods Shitaro's face—until…)

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): …That's what they're for.

(He gestures faintly behind him. Dozens of masked Inaba clan members silently rise from the shadows. In seconds, Shitaro is surrounded.)

Shitaro: NO! NO, PLEASE! MERCY—!

(His screams are abruptly cut off as the Inaba move in. The scene cuts away before the violence begins— The brutal execution echoes in the distance. But inside a quieter, high-security room lit by a neon red lamp, sits a group of muscular frat guys—frat jackets, gold chains, red hats with the OX symbol. This is Omicron XI, the OX Fraternity—BRO's elite strike team. At the head is their leader: ROB BONETON – "ROBMAN" White sunglasses on indoors. Gold grill. Power pose. But his smile fades as Poison Shadow steps in with calculated silence.)

Robman (Robert Boneton): …Yo. Your guy squeal like a pig. That normal for ninja?

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): Only the unworthy.

(The silence is suffocating. Robman shifts but regains his frat swagger.)

Robman (Robert Boneton): Fair enough. Anyway—BRO says your clan's got beef with the chick named Erika. One of the Background Girls.

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): She carries the blood of Fujibayashi. Her death is inevitable.

Robman (Robert Boneton): Right, right. You get her, we get street cred and maybe take out those shiny girls while we're at it. Win-win.

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): And the one with her. The not-human.

Robman (Robert Boneton): Lionheart? Yeah, we saw the footage. The dude's a freakin' jungle tsunami in a tank top.

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): (calmly): …Then we kill the jungle.

(The two shake hands. Shadows shift behind Poison Shadow like living smoke.)

[Shine House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

The lights are low and warm, a few old lamps giving the room a calm golden glow. Kito walks through the front door with a soft smile on his face—a real one. Not the cocky smirk or battle-hardened stoicism—this is different. Sitting around the living room are the rest of the Shine House crew— Hiyoshi was relaxing on the couch, munching popcorn, Rokuro on the floor gaming, casually observing, Malachi humming while sketching something in his notebook), Sun Zuan, stoic as always, sipping green tea, Jinwoo scrolling his phone but very much listening, Matthew twirling a drumstick and chewing on his hoodie sleeve, Pouya headphones on, but only one ear covered They all glance up when Kito walks in.)

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: (grinning) Yo. Someone's cheesin' harder than the Gouda section at Trader Joe's.

Matthew Mason: (elbowing Pouya) Look at this fool! That's not a victory smile, that's a "yeah-she-said-yes" smile!

Rokuro Mashimoto: (deadpan, not even pausing his game) Kito's got the soft eyes. Definitely kissed someone tonight.

Kito Motosimba: (trying to act chill): Y'all really need to mind your business.

Go Jinwoo: Which is code for "yes, but I'm not telling you the details."

Malachi Duran: …Did you finally talk to her?"

(Kito walks to the fridge, grabs a cold bottle of tea, then looks over his shoulder with a faint smirk.)

Kito Motosimba: She was being hunted. I stopped them. (A beat) One down. One ran off. They won't be back.

(The guys pause for a second. Then…)

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: You used the roar, didn't you?

Kito Motosimba: (nods slowly) Noble Roar of Kings.

Pouya Zangane: (removing his headphones) Even the raccoons two blocks away probably felt that.

Rokuro Mashimoto: Wait. Does that mean you're… finally dating her?

(Kito shrugs—still trying to act like it's no big deal. But he can't hide the smile.)

Kito Motosimba: Yeah. We're together now.

(Suddenly everyone's up, cheering or clapping or tossing popcorn.)

Go Jinwoo: Finally! My man just upgraded from legendary to mythical!

Matthew Mason: Okay, okay, hold up—this needs celebration.

Sun Zuan: May I suggest… Maurice's bakery?

(Everyone freezes. Slowly turns to look at Sun Zuan.)

Malachi Duran: Did… did Sun Zuan just suggest baked goods?

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: Write it down. That's history.

[Cutaway — Flashback — Maurice's Bakery] [Weeks Ago]

(The crew stands in awe inside a vibrant, delicious-smelling bakery with wood shelves and glass cases overflowing with breads, pastries, and sweets. Behind the counter stands a smiling man—UNCLE MAURICE, a large, joyful baker with a French-American vibe and the forearms of someone who kneads dough like a warrior. He's flanked by a team of young, enthusiastic Mexican bakers, speaking Spanglish and laughing as they work. Their energy is electric.)

Matthew Mason: (arms wide open, proud): Gentlemen. Welcome to glory. These are the breads that raised me.

Go Jinwoo: Is that a tres leches donut?

Matthew Mason: You know who else knows how to introduce their potential true loves to baked magic? (points skyward with finger guns) My mom.

[Flashback Ends]

(They all burst out laughing, the memory still fresh.)

Malachi Duran: You really said that in front of like twelve bakers.

Matthew Mason: They needed to know!

(As the laughter dies down, everyone glances at Kito again—more softly this time.)

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: Proud of you, man.

Sun Zuan: She is strong. You are stronger together.

Rokuro Mashimoto: Just don't let her see your room. You still haven't cleaned up since that ramen explosion.

(Kito laughs a little, head hanging with a sigh.)

Kito Motosimba: She's… different. And yeah. I'll protect her. Always.

(The crew nods. No one says it, but they all know—beneath the jokes and baked goods and superhero identities—this is family.)

Pouya Zangane: So bakery in the morning?

Matthew Mason: Hell yeah, bros.

Malachi Duran: I call dibs on the concha.

Go Jinwoo: (serious tone) Dibs don't exist in friendship, bro.

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: Race you fools there.

[Yuki Shop, Los Angeles, California] [August 2021]

(A warm, colorful little shop tucked into the heart of the city—decorated with vintage signs, modern graffiti-style art of Japanese mascots, and shelves stacked with Mexican, American, and Japanese snacks. A sign above the counter reads: "YUKI SHOP: Cool Snacks, Hot Vibes." At a cozy corner booth sit the Background Girls—Meg, Hayley, Roberta, Courtney, Potala, Helen,Erika, and of course, Jeff, sipping tall, ice-cold Pepsis and munching on a spread of spicy Takis, melon pan, and mini burritos.)

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: (with her mouth full) I still can't believe we found a place that sells chili lime Cheetos and mochi ice cream.

Courtney Quagmire: This might actually be the ultimate vibe.

Potala Sonora: (nodding) I'm living for the aesthetic. 10 out of 10.

(The others murmur in agreement, all turning to look at Erika, who blushes just a little but smiles softly.)

Hayley Smith: Same. And Erika? Girl. You've been killing it lately.

[Cutaway — Erika Style Training Montage]

(Quick cuts of Erika training with the others— Erika sparring one-on-one with Hayley, gently but firmly correcting her stance. Going full-speed against Roberta, blocking rapid kicks and landing light counters. Courtney, eyes blazing with thrill, charging in only to be gracefully redirected and pinned. Meg, glowing slightly with newly controlled ki, grinning as Erika nods approvingly. Jeff, breathing hard, slipping and fumbling—until Erika pats him on the back and smirks.)

Erika: You're stronger than you think. Just... picture Hayley in danger.

Jeff: (eyes snap open, fierce, focused) Nobody hurts her.

(Jeff suddenly bursts into motion, perfectly flipping and landing a kick on a wooden dummy. Then— JEFF VS. SHINOBU (NINJA NONSENSE)Jeff lands a clean flying kick toShinobu'schest midair, knocking her out of the training ring while she wails dramatically.

Shinobu: WHY IS HE ACTUALLY GOOD NOW?!

[Cutaway Ends]

[Griffith Park, Los Angeles, California]

(The gang's now lounging on the open lawn, watching the sky turn orange. There's laughter and good vibes—until a sudden shockwave rolls across the grass, and smoke erupts near the trees.)

Meg Griffin: …Was that a bomb?

(From the smoke emerges a sleek, cyberpunk-looking OX Unit, faces hidden behind glowing green visors. Behind them stands a fiery figure—PYROCAUST:
A flame-wreathed, punk-clad woman with wild red hair, volcanic veins glowing across her skin. Her voice is low, smoky, and unhinged.)

Pyrocaust: Guess what, kiddies. Class is canceled… permanently.

(Pyrocaust hurls a fireball that scorches the grass, causing the girls to leap into action.)

Hayley Smith: (ducking a plasma blast) Okay she is definitely on fire. Like... in the terrifying villain way.

Courtney Quagmire: She looks like a Hot Cheeto with anger issues.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: Better than that crypto vampire we fought last week.

Meg Griffin: (aura flickering to life) No holding back this time.

(Suddenly—SHURIKEN slice toward Courtney and Roberta from the trees. Before they land— CLINK! —Erika appears, deflecting the blades with twin kunai.)

Erika Fujibayashi: …Inaba Clan.

(Emerging from the shadows in sleek shinobi armor are masked INABA NINJAS, surrounding the girls. The girls spring into battle: Meg activates a pink aura, ki under full control now, effortlessly dodging strikes and landing counterattacks. Roberta shatters shuriken midair with her psychic bursts. Courtney is all movement—speed, flips, pure fury. Hayley uses raw strength to punch through a ninja's guard. Potala throws a whirlwind of daggers with pinpoint precision. Helen uses pressure-point techniques while barking commands. Jeff joins in, more confident now, flipping over an OX soldier with precision.)

[Shine House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

(The guys are mid-post-training chill session when they all suddenly pause—eyes glowing faintly as they sense energy disturbances.)

Sun Zuan: (calm): …They're fighting.

Go Jinwoo: That's… ki. But there's more—Psychic…Speed…

Kito Motosimba: (eyes narrowing) Erika… she has ki. But also…

Malachi Duran: Spiritual energy. That's not normal.

Pouya Zangane: She's one of us.

(They all turn to Hiyoshi, the leader. Hiyoshi showed a more serious demeanor.)

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: (rising) Rokuro and I will deal with Pyrocaust.

Rokuro Mashimoto: (smirking) Took you long enough to call me.

(In a flash, the two heroes don their battle suits—a fusion of futuristic armor and traditional martial gear. Glowing nodes, flowing sashes, armored gauntlets and sleek boots—each piece activated by their life force. Sarugami [Hiyoshi Mashimoto] – Color Theme: Orange, Chest plate shaped like a primate's face. Golden sash, metallic boots with claw tips. Staff strapped across his back, glowing with ki pulses. Long trailing scarf emblazoned with kanji for "Saru." Inumaru [Rokuro Mashimoto] – Color Theme: Yellow & Orange, Sleek, canine-themed armor with glowing energy rings on his forearms. Jet-like boosters on his legs for high-speed combat. Tail-shaped energy whip and sharp sensory goggles. His helmet has ears. And on his left side of chest plate, is emblazoned with kanji for "Inu." They are Sendai's Dynamic Duo: Sarugami and Inumaru.)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): Let's light her up.

Inumaru (Rokuro Mashimoto): And take a bite out of crime.

(As Sarugami and Inumaru launch from the Shine House rooftop into the evening sky, flames flicker on the horizon and ninja shadows swirl in the darkness. The battle for Griffith Park is only beginning...)

[Griffith Park, Los Angeles, California]

(The sunlight filters through the trees, casting a golden hue over the chaos. Background Girls and Jeff are giving it their all—fighting hand-to-hand, flipping over benches, using park terrain to their advantage. The Inaba ninja slash in coordinated rhythms, but Erika leads graceful counters, while Roberta and Courtney use pure athletic strength and smarts to outmaneuver their opponents. Meanwhile, Pyrocaust floats off the ground, the air crackling with heat as her Volcanic Stream scorches a path toward them. The girls scatter, sweating, not just from the heat but from the intensity of battle. BOOM! A sudden burst of orange energy flashes—Sarugami flips down between Pyrocaust and the girls, spinning his bo staff with blazing precision. Next to him, a yellow-orange blur, Inumaru lands gracefully, growling low as his eyes narrow.)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (firmly) You're done melting parks today, lava-girl.

Pyrocaust: (mocking) Another costumed boy scout? How cute. Let's see what burns first—your spirit or your furball friend.

Inumaru (Rokuro Mashimoto): (sniffs, sharp) She's bluffing. And your frat boys? They stink of old Monster cans and fake rebellion. (darts off) I'll find 'em.

Meg Griffin: (to Hayley) Take the team. Help Inumaru. You're my second-in-command.

Hayley Smith: (nervous) Wait—me? But what if I mess this up? You're facing a literal fire demon lady!

Meg Griffin: (gentle but firm) You got this. I believe in you. And I need you to believe in you too.

Hayley Smith: (softly) ...Okay. You better not die, Meg.

Jeff Fischer: (jumps in, fist ready) Let's go bust some frat boys, team!

Hayley Smith: (deep breath) Background Girls—move out!

(PAUSE! The rest of the Background Girls and Jeff stared at Hayley in deadpanned expression.)

Hayley Smith: (Realizing her choice of catchphrases, sighs) Yeah, it sucks. I'll work on it later.

(The team peels off, chasing after Inumaru into the shadows of the nearby park trail. Meg watches them go, then turns toward Pyrocaust, who's now fully alight, flaming hair flaring with her fury. Just then, Helen pads up beside Meg, standing on two legs in a fighting stance.)

Helen: (earnest) I'm not just your dog, Meg. I'm your ride-or-die, your best friend, your hype pup. I believe in you more than anyone—unlike that guy.

[Cutaway – Brian Griffin Fall From Grace]

(Brian is at a bar, sipping wine. He tries to flirt with a human woman.)

Brian Griffin: (suave) Did it hurt when you fell from—

Woman: Ugh, you smell like irony and beard oil.

Woman #2: (recoils) Why is a dog trying to flirt with me?

Woman #3 (deadpan) Is this some sort of furry bait? Get a job.

Brian Griffin: (sighs, defeated) At least Stewie still loves me... maybe.

[Cutaway Ends]

Meg Griffin: (smiling) Thanks, Helen. Let's do this.

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): You with me?

Meg Griffin: (pumps her ki, hands glowing) Always.

Pyrocaust: (laughs, flames roaring) THREE against ONE? You'll regret that.

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (grinning) Let's test that theory.

(With a mighty battle cry, Sarugami spins into action, his bo staff slamming into Pyrocaust's molten defenses. Meg follows, ki swirling around her as she lands a clean punch to the ribs. Helen, nimble and fast, darts around to keep the villain off balance. The Battle of Griffith Park has begun. Hayley, leading Jeff, Courtney, Roberta, Potala, and Helen, sprints alongside Inumaru, his golden-orange eyes glowing with fierce intensity as his Ka energy courses through him. Their eyes narrow at the techy, camo-painted OX van, hidden in the tree line.

Hayley Smith: (planting her feet, focused) Alright, time to show Meg I can do this. Murus Fulgur! (Lightning Wall)

(Hayley slams her palms together—crackling blue sigils erupt beneath her as a wall of lightning explodes outward, catching multiple OX frat boys trying to flee. They convulse and drop, their devices fried. The remaining OXers scream in chaos.)

Inumaru (Rokuro Mashimoto): (gruffly impressed) Not bad, hippie girl.

(In a blink, Inumaru dashes forward. His katana hums with Ka, orange streaks of light trailing behind each slash. He blinks through enemies faster than their eyes can track—vanishing and reappearing mid-strike, disarming, disabling, and devastating the enemy crew.)

Courtney Quagmire: That dog is terrifying. (beat) ...I mean it as a compliment.

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: Did you see that slash? He bisected a stun-gun in mid-air.

Potala Sonora: And Hayley just cast lightning. Why haven't we been doing this sooner?

Jeff Fischer: (grinning) It's like our anime club came to life.

(Suddenly, two Jōnin-level kunoichi from the Inaba Clan leap down from the trees in perfect sync. Their eyes cold, kunai spinning.)

Inaba Clan Kunoichi #1: Fujibayashi Erika... your disgraceful bloodline ends today!

Inaba Clan Kunoichi #2: And we'll make her little cheer squad and hippie sidekick watch.

Erika Fujibayashi: (not amused) Funny. We were planning to wipe out the last of your clan today.

(Erika appears with Meg and Helen behind her, bloodied but standing tall. Erika's aura is fierce, her hand on her ninjatō, face unreadable.)

Erika Fujibayashi: My family's not just my ancestors. It's them now. Try to kill them, and we'll bury you.

(The kunoichi retreat into the shadows, bitter and vowing vengeance.)

Inaba Clan Kunoichi #1: We'll see you soon, traitor.

Inaba Clan Kunoichi #2: Count on it, Fujibayashi.

(Once they vanish, the group surrounds one of the captured OX commanders, who's groaning under Hayley's static magic cuffs)

OX Commander: (pleading) Wait—wait, I can tell you stuff! Just… cut me a deal, yeah? I know who sent us here!

(Inumaru leans in, eyes narrowed like burning suns.)

Inumaru (Rokuro Mashimoto): Who sent you? Name them.

OX Commander: (clearly panicking) But I need immunity! I need—

(A crackle and sudden electronic buzz interrupt the moment. The OX commander's eyes widen. A neuro-cerebral implant in his neck glows red for a split second—)

OX Commander: (stuttering) No—no—he said not to—

(He drops dead, body twitching. Smoke rises from his head. Everyone recoils in horror.)

Roberta Tubbs-Brown: ...What the hell was that?!

Jeff Fischer: (numb) Did his brain just... melt?

(A mysterious, scrambled voice plays on a remaining OX comm unit.)

Robman (Robert Boneton): No deals. No traces. No failures. You were never meant to get caught.

(Silence. The girls, Jeff, and Inumaru are shaken. The implications are chilling.)

Inumaru (Rokuro Mashimoto): (quiet, grim) Robman… what are you planning?

(The camera slowly zooms on his eyes—the burning Ka within flickering like a warning flame. Back at the charred battlegrounds of Griffith Park, the ash in the air danced like falling snow. The final battle was here. Meg, Helen, and Sarugami stood face to face with the scorched and smirking villainess—Pyrocaust, her body still glowing with molten veins of magma-like energy.)

Meg Griffin: (defiantly) Why?! Why all this destruction? Why be a supervillain?

(Pyrocaust's fiery hair flared up, her molten skin pulsing red as she slowly removed her cracked mask, revealing a scarred, weary face.)

Pyrocaust (Akemi Kanzaki): My name… was Akemi Kanzaki. I was a firefighter. Rescued people. Saved lives. Until the city left me to burn during a failed experimental chemical fire. I survived... but not as a hero. They called me a freak. So I became one. Now I just watch it all burn."

(Meg's fists clenched, but her eyes flickered with sympathy. Still, she stood firm.)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (stepped forward, bo staff twirling, eyes calm) No more talk. You've chosen your path. And we'll stop you—together.

Helen: (yellow lightning now crackling in her eyes, growled) Let's freakin' do this!

(The Battle Begins. Pyrocaust started with "Volcanic Stream Barrage", releasing magma streams from her arms in whips and lances. Sarugami blocked with his spinning "Enshō Rōdō" (Blazing Staff Spiral), redirecting molten jets into the air. Helen leapt into the sky with "Lightning Hound Burst", striking Pyrocaust with a flurry of shocking fang-and-claw attacks. Meg, channeling her training, moved gracefully, dodging flames with swift footwork, launching light blasts called "Kibana Darts". Pyrocaust slammed her fists into the ground, erupting lava pillars with "Eruption Gauntlets." Sarugami got knocked back, burned, but rose—eyes burning with spirit.)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (to himself) This ends… now!

(Sarugami launched upward, twirling high over Pyrocaust, forming a giant crimson phoenix from his ki—)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): Otorigawa! (Phoenix Fire Wave)

(The fire bird-like wave dive-bombed Pyrocaust, clashing directly with her counterattack.)

Pyrocaust (Akemi Kanzaki): Hellflare Maelstrom!

(The explosion caused a crater of molten dirt and energy. Both were nearly spent. That's when Meg—heart pounding, eyes shut—focused her ki. Pink energy began to spiral in her palms. Cherry blossoms materialized in her mind—soft, powerful, blooming.)

Meg Griffin: Sakuragiha! (Cherry Blossom Tree Wave)

(Meg slammed both hands to the ground, firing a radiant beam of pink energy shaped like a blossoming cherry blossom tree's branches. The roots of energy surged upward—twisting with grace and fury—and pierced through the last of Pyrocaust's flames. A moment of silence. Then—BOOM—Pyrocaust hit the ground, unconscious but breathing. Meg stood over her, panting, Sarugami beside her with a proud smirk, Helen licking a burn on her paw. The LAPD finally arrived, blinking in disbelief at the wreckage, the smoldering van, dead ninjas, and half-melted OX frat uniforms.)

LAPD Officer: (muttering) ...What the hell happened here?

[Los Angeles, California]

(As sirens wailed behind them, Hayley, Jeff, and the Background Girls walked along the moonlit road back to the Shadow House, exhausted but smiling. Hayley looked at her hands, a bit shocked at what she pulled off earlier. She led... and it worked. Suddenly, a loud WHOOSH echoed—Inumaru blurred past them in a golden-orange streak, dust kicking up Sonic-style behind him.)

Jeff Fischer: That dog's faster than my mom running from a vegan potluck.

(They laughed. But Hayley watched the sky, thoughtful. A new fire had been lit. The stars begin to emerge above the hazy Los Angeles skyline, smoke clearing from the battlefield below. On a quiet rooftop overlooking the chaos, Sarugami, Meg, and Helen sit, breathless but victorious. Distant sirens echo. The city still stands. Sarugami smiles softly, the same gentle warmth he's carried through every battle.)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): We did good tonight. No—you two did good.

Helen: (grinning, sparks fading from her yellow-lit eyes) I can't believe we actually pulled it off. Pyrocaust was insane.

Meg Griffin: Yeah... but something's been bugging me.

(Meg stares at Sarugami. Her heart thumps like thunder. This was the moment.)

Meg Griffin:(playful smile) Hey... did Rokuro ever get weirded out when you started eating, like, a lot?

(Sarugami blinks. Then grins—too wide, too proud.)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): For the first three weeks back home in Sendai, yeah. He thought I had a tapeworm or something. (as if it were obvious) He got used to it. Just as long as I don't let him eat chocolate—

Inumaru (Rokuro Mashimoto): (zooming in via superspeed) Hiyoshi, don't—

Meg Griffin:(surprised) ...Hiyoshi?

(Slowly, Meg reaches up and unclasps Sarugami's helmet. It hisses as it detaches. The mask falls to the floor with a soft clink.)

Meg Griffin: (stunned whisper) ...Hiyoshi Mashimoto?

Helen: (staring, then turning) And if he's Hiyoshi... then that means—

(Inumaru sighs and removes his own helmet, revealing a familiar, stoic face.)

Helen: You're... Rokuro?!

(Both girls just stare. The air goes still. But not tense. Not angry. Just... realization. A long moment passes.)

Meg Griffin: You've both been heroes... this whole time?

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (nodding, soft) Nine years.

Inumaru (Rokuro Mashimoto): (sincerely) We didn't mean to keep it from you. We just couldn't risk it getting out.

Meg Griffin: (sitting beside him) But why? Why keep fighting?

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (looking out into the sky) Because someone has to. And me? I always had this itch—this urge to fight strong people... but not to hurt them. (small smile) I just wanted to use that strength for something good. To protect.

Meg Griffin: (squinting) Sounds almost like... a superpower thing.

Hiyoshi Mashimoto: (chuckling) I wish I was a superhuman. Or even just human.

(That line lands heavy.)

Helen: (confused) Wait. What do you mean?

Meg Griffin: You're not human?

(Hiyoshi's smile fades just slightly. He gazes into the city lights, letting the truth come out with a breath.)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): I'm a Zengokan. A warrior race from the planet Zengo. (small laugh) Born with monkey tails, insane appetites, and even crazier power.

Meg Griffin: (whispers) You're an alien?

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (sincerely) I'm just me. Just Hiyoshi. I was found outside a forest near Sendai when I was a baby. My adoptive parents raised me as their own. Rokuro came later—he was like a brother to me before he became one.

Inumaru (Rokuro Mashimoto): Hiyoshi protected me when no one else would. I figured it was my job to return the favor.

(Helen looks between them, then smiles in her own quiet way.)

Helen: So let me get this straight: my roommate's crush is a warrior alien with a tail, and his Akita Inu best friend is his ninja brother? (snickers) Yeah, that tracks.

(Meg, cheeks red but full of resolve, nudges Hiyoshi's shoulder gently.)

Meg Griffin: Guess I've had good taste since episode two.

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (chuckling) That was a good tour. UCLA never saw it coming.

(The camera pulls back slowly—three silhouettes under the night sky, wind brushing through their hair. Laughter echoing lightly into the dark.)

Sarugami (Hiyoshi Mashimoto): (without turning away from the stars to Meg) Meg, I know I have a lot to answer but I hope you understand that—

Meg Griffin: Hiyoshi, I get it. It's not easy fitting in while hiding what you are, who you are, but seeing you, both sides of you, I'm glad… (slowly holds Hiyoshi's hand.) to meet you and have you a part of my life now.

(Hiyoshi looked surprised before he smiles brightly at this and holds the offered hand as well. Watching this from a good distance was the wimping but smiling Helen and Rokuro. Following the example, Helen extends a paw out to Rokuro.)

Helen: Shake, boy. Shake.

(Getting the message, Rokuro shakes paws with Helen. Both dog looked lovingly at each other. The battle's over... for now.)

[Abandoned Shrine, Japantown, Los Angeles, California]

(A dimly lit chamber beneath the Inaba mountains. Ancient scrolls line the walls, and incense smoke curls in the air. Poison Shadow, leader of the Inaba ninja clan, sits cross-legged, his face obscured by a dark veil. Robman, the imposing head of the OX fraternity, paces angrily.)

Robman (Robert Boneton): (slamming his fist on a table) Your operatives failed, Poison Shadow! The Background Girls still breathe, thanks to those masked interlopers from Sendai!

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): (calmly) Sarugami and Inugami... Their reputation precedes them. I had heard whispers of their prowess.

Robman (Robert Boneton): (gritting his teeth) Whispers? They're a thorn in our side! This mission was crucial, and now it's compromised.

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): (unfazed) Setbacks are the forge of strategy. We will adapt

(Robman storms out, leaving Poison Shadow alone. He closes his eyes, lost in thought.)

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): (inner monologue) Kurokami, my son... Taken from me by that beast, Lionheart. You were to inherit the clan, to lead us into a new era. Now, I vow upon your memory: Lionheart will pay for his transgressions. The balance will be restored.

(Poison Shadow opens his eyes, a glint of determination shining through the veil.)

Poison Shadow (Ryokuza Inaba): (softly) The shadows will move once more.

[Shadow House, UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

The bright California sunlight filters through the sheer curtains of the Shadow House, casting warm hues across the living room. The place is buzzing with energy, the scent of breakfast lingering faintly in the air. Seven young women stand ready in stylish but practical first-day outfits, backpacks slung over their shoulders, faces shining with excitement, determination, and a tinge of nervousness. Meg Griffin, her hair tied back neatly, adjusts her UCLA sweater. Hayley Smith plants a soft kiss on Jeff Fischer's cheek as he hands her a packed lunch. Roberta Tubbs-Brown ties her braids with precision, cracking her knuckles. Courtney Quagmire does a little spin, double-checking her makeup in her phone's camera. Erika Fujibayashi and Potala Sonora are quietly giggling at something on Erika's tablet. Helen throws on a stylish jacket, pulling out her earbuds and nodding to the beat still playing.

Jeff Fischer: (grinning, peace-signing) Good luck, ladies. Knock those professors dead—but, you know, metaphorically.

Hayley Smith: (smirking) No promises.

[UCLA, Los Angeles, California]

(The door swings open, and the Background Girls step outside onto the steps. Just across the way, the Shine House Crew—also known as the Shining Warriors—emerge from their own residence. Walking in formation, we see: Hiyoshi Mashimoto with his confident stride, headphones around his neck. Malachi Duran in a crisp button-up, casually sipping a smoothie. Pouya Zangane stretches casually, eyes calm and alert. Matthew Mason flips a coin in the air. Kito Motosimba carries a heavy textbook in one hand and a protein bar in the other. Rokuro Mashimoto, upbeat and animated, waves as he jogs to catch up. Sun Zuan meditatively walks in silence, hood up. Go Jinwoo adjusts his glasses with a small smirk. Link Hargrove, the calmest of the bunch, hums a tune from an old anime as he walks slightly behind. Erika spots Kito, and their eyes lock for a moment. They smile softly at each other—words unspoken; secrets kept safely. Meanwhile, Meg glances over her shoulder and locks eyes with Hiyoshi. They pause for a moment in time. Meg's cheeks flush faintly. Hiyoshi gives a small, bashful smile. She smiles back, both hearts racing but content. Without needing to speak, they continue toward campus, their footsteps syncing in rhythm.)

[The Meg Chronicles Ending 1 – Blue Rebirth]

(A soft piano melody starts, accompanied by gentle strings. A breeze is heard as the screen fades in from black. Soft, melancholic tone The camera fades in to a young Erika, standing alone in the middle of a rainy town square. People pass by, whispering, casting glances of pity and scorn after her father, a police officer, was killed in the line of duty. The rain intensifies, blurring the figures around her as she grips her coat tightly. A young Potala sits alone in a classroom, surrounded by white children who sneer at her. They call her "savage," pointing and laughing. Potala lowers her gaze, gripping her notebook tightly as her vision blurs from tears. A young Courtney sits in a cluttered garage, surrounded by old junk and a group of ferrets curled up beside her. She hugs them tightly, her only source of warmth, as she stares at a cracked window where the moonlight barely reaches her.)

"The town whispered behind my back,
Shadows cast by the past won't fade.
I reached out, but the warmth was gone,
Left alone in the cold, unchanging days."

(More emotional, building up. A young Roberta is curled up on the stairway of her old home in Stoolbend. Her hands cover her ears as the muffled sound of her parents, Donna and Robert, shouting at each other echoes through the house. A shadow passes over her as her father walks out the door for the last time. A young Hayley stands frozen in shock, her wide eyes reflecting a violent scene. In a dark warehouse, her father Stan Smith and his CIA colleagues stand over a lifeless body— a former terrorist shot down mercilessly. The gunfire echoes in her mind as her small hands tremble. A newborn Helen, in her small puppy form, is being handed over by her normal dog parents to a human adoption center. She stretches out her tiny paws toward them, begging, but they turn away. The door slams shut as she is taken away, alone. A young Meg sits curled up in a fetal position on her bed, covering her ears as her family—Peter, Lois, Chris, and Stewie—laugh and mock her from downstairs uplifting. Tears roll down her cheeks as she clenches her hands into fists, trying to drown out their words. Young Meg slowly uncovers her eyes. As she blinks, her gray, suffocating bedroom ceiling shifts— transforming into a bright blue sky over Los Angeles.)

"I called your name, but no one turned around,
Trapped in a world too cruel to see me.
Yet even in the darkest nights,
A spark remained, waiting to be freed."

(Chorus – Powerful, yet emotional tone. One by one, the younger versions of the Background Girls—Erika, Potala, Courtney, Roberta, Hayley, Helen, and Meg—find themselves in a surreal dream-like space. Their past selves look up, lost in despair… until their present-day selves step forward. Erika offers her younger self a reassuring nod. Potala kneels and takes her younger self's hand, squeezing it gently. Courtney smiles warmly at her childhood self, motioning for her to stand. Roberta places a hand on her younger self's shoulder, as if telling her it's okay now. Hayley gently takes her younger self's trembling hands, calming her. Helen nuzzles her puppy form, smiling. Meg, hesitating at first, reaches out and embraces her younger self. As the past versions of themselves disappear into glowing light, their present-day selves turn toward the skyline of Los Angeles, where a new path awaits.)

"Let me reach that blue sky,
Even if the wind has torn me apart.
I'll stand again, I'll walk again,
Because now, I am not alone."

(Meg, now standing alone on the rooftop of the Shadow House, closes her eyes as the wind blows through her hair. She takes a deep breath, enjoying the fresh air, no longer suffocated by her past. She opens her eyes and looks down. Below, standing on the sidewalk, are Erika, Potala, Courtney, Roberta, Hayley, and Helen—all smiling warmly at her. The sun shines down on them as they wave for Meg to come down.)

"The sky is wide, the wind is kind,
And now I see your hand in mine.
Let the past fade like morning rain,
A new adventure calls my name."

(Meg's lips curl into a small but genuine smile. She steps forward, running down the stairs to join them. The Background Girls walk together through the bright, bustling streets of Los Angeles, heading toward a new adventure. The camera pans upward, focusing on the clear blue sky as the last note of the song fades out.)

(End of Ending Theme)

This is going as well as I want it to. Also, yeah while some Family Guy, American Dad, and The Cleveland Show characters will retain their eye colors, some will have their own anime eye colors. And for human characters to have all five fingers on each hand and five toes on each feet. Also I am probably gonna be most anime references into cutaways with some 80s to present references too.

Also yes, I've shipped Erika and Kito/Lionheart as a couple now. And so far the only aliens in the Shining Warriors are Hiyoshi and Kito. As for their birth names I will not be revealing them any time soon until later chapter seasons. Also yeah the only one who knows who Lionheart is are the Shinning Warriors and Erika. And the ones who knows Hiyoshi is Sarugami and Rokuro is Inugami are Meg and Helen. And if you wonder if Sarugami and Inumaru are practically Batman and Robin. Nah, it's more like Batman and Ace the Bat-Hound. I guess it's my little tribute to Adam West, may he rest in peace. Also, the Yuki Shop I made from my inspiration of Yukis, they serve the best snacks here in Texas. I'm just learning not to go there all the time, so patience and timing, it will be worth it enjoying their snacks like ice cream, muffins and nachos.

I've adds different energies and the life force called Ki will use metaphysical, spiritual, psychic, spiritual, magical, cosmic and natural. We will get to the type of superhumans later. I shall be waiting to hear if anyone of you have any opinions or suggestion I'm all ears. Your voices count too but with my vision added to it as well.

Plus, Meg's Ki is much bigger and abundant now that years of being ridicule and mistreated in Quahog are behind her, it is finally opened. And I thought it over and choose the name of her own warrior technique to be called Sakuragiha aka the Cherry Blossom Tree Wave. Also there will more time to explore into Hiyoshi's past and Rokuro's adoption into the Mashimoto family.)

And finally, see ya next time for the Meg Chronicles S01E04 – The Fight Club of Superhumans. An underground fighting ring where superhuman beings and regular humans fight for money, excitement and supremacy, where people place bets and all being run by a certain man…. In a fish…. In a bowl.