Familiars

by seamor

Summary:

When Ida Mendez starts at a new school, her teacher quits on day one, leaving her diverse class directionless before a major academic competition. A mysterious new teacher, Ms. Cornfield, arrives and introduces the students to Familiars—magical talking animals who understand their humans' thoughts and wishes. Ida gets the first Familiar, a fox who helps her adjust to her new life, and soon each classmate receives their own magical companion to help with their personal challenges. Together, the students and their Familiars prepare for the Academic Challenge while learning to believe in themselves. It's a heartwarming school story where magic and mentorship transform a classroom of kids facing real struggles.

Chapter 1: Scene 1

FADE IN:

EXT. NORWEGIAN HIGHWAY - DAY

September. Golden autumn light filters through birch trees lining a winding mountain road. A vintage bus painted in swirling, mystical patterns rumbles along - THE OMNIBUS.

INT. THE OMNIBUS - CONTINUOUS

MORTIMER MORRISON (50s, African-American, theatrical presence) grips the enormous steering wheel. He wears a fur-lined ushanka hat, a long dark coat over a burgundy vest, and a red patterned bandana around his neck. He sways dramatically as he drives, humming enthusiastically. On the radio, Sammy Davis Jr.'s rendition of "Talk to the Animals" plays.

**MORRISON**
*(singing badly off-key)*
If we could walk with the animals, talk with the—

A MAGPIE flutters from her perch near the rearview mirror. This is PENNY (voice: Wanda Sykes energy).

**PENNY**
Oh LORD, not the fake Sammy Davis again. Mortimer, baby, you know I love you, but your singing could strip paint off a barn. And we're supposed to be WORKING.

**MORRISON**
*(grandly gesturing with one hand)*
My dear Penny, art is interpretation!

**PENNY**
Look, Mort, we've been driving for three hours. Your "mystical intuition" better be picking up something soon, or we're just burning diesel in the middle of nowhere, Norway.

**MORRISON**
*(clutching his chest dramatically)*
You wound me! My instincts have never failed us. I feel...
*(closes his eyes briefly while driving)*
...a presence. Lonely. Clever. Definitely magical.

**PENNY**
Eyes on the ROAD!

Morrison swerves slightly, then pulls off onto a forest trail.

**MORRISON**
Here! This is it!

**PENNY**
You said that about the last three stops. One was a gas station.

**MORRISON**
That attendant had a mystical aura!

**PENNY**
That was cigarette smoke.

EXT. NORWEGIAN FOREST - DAY

Morrison exits the bus with a flourish of his coat. Penny perches on his shoulder. The forest is thick with moss and shadow.

**MORRISON**
*(whispering dramatically)*
Can you feel it, Penny? The call of destiny?

**PENNY**
I feel my feet getting cold. What exactly are we looking for again?

**MORRISON**
A Familiar in need! Species unknown, but my soul recognizes a kindred spirit.

They spot TRACKS in the soft earth.

**MORRISON** *(CONT'D)*
Aha! The universe provides!

**PENNY**
Those look pretty big for a "kindred spirit."

They follow the tracks deeper into the forest. Morrison strikes theatrical poses as he tracks, occasionally pressing his hand to trees and gasping.

**MORRISON**
The energy grows stronger!

A LOW GROWL echoes through the trees.

**PENNY**
That's not energy, that's—

A MASSIVE BROWN BEAR crashes through the underbrush, standing on its hind legs.

**PENNY** *(CONT'D)*
BEAR! BEAR! BEAR!

**MORRISON**
*(attempting a dramatic bow)*
Noble creature, we mean no—

The bear ROARS.

**MORRISON** *(CONT'D)*
RUN!

They sprint through the forest, Morrison's coat billowing behind him, Penny flying overhead screeching directions.

**PENNY**
Left! RIGHT! TREE! DUCK!

**MORRISON**
*(while running)*
This is very undignified!

They burst from the tree line and scramble onto the Omnibus. Morrison slams the door, breathing heavily.

INT. THE OMNIBUS - CONTINUOUS

**PENNY**
"My instincts never fail us!" "The universe provides!" The universe almost provided that bear with LUNCH!

**MORRISON**
*(adjusting his hat with dignity)*
A minor miscalculation. The mystical energies were clearly—

A VOICE from the back of the bus interrupts.

**ROBBIE (O.S.)**
Overlapping. You were sensing both of us.

Morrison and Penny spin around. Sitting casually in one of the worn velvet seats is ROBBIE, a sleek red fox with intelligent eyes (voice: Pedro Pascal charm).

**MORRISON**
*(delighted, arms spread wide)*
Our destined companion reveals himself!

**PENNY**
How did you—when did you—

**ROBBIE**
Slipped in while you were running. Nice form, by the way. Very... theatrical.

**MORRISON**
*(bowing deeply)*
Mortimer Morrison, at your service! Proprietor of the Magical Pet Shop and conductor of this mystical conveyance!

**PENNY**
And I'm Penny, the one who keeps him from getting eaten by bears.

**ROBBIE**
Robbie. Fox. Currently between situations.
*(stretches luxuriously on the seat)*
So... where we going?

Morrison and Penny exchange glances. Morrison grins widely.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 2: Scene 2

EXT. NEW HOUSE - DAY

An urban California neighborhood. Sun-bleached sidewalks, chain-link fences, and the distant sound of traffic. A MOVING VAN pulls up to a ramshackle two-story apartment building with peeling yellow paint and rusted fire escapes.

INT. CAR - CONTINUOUS

IDA MENDEZ (10, observant eyes, curly dark hair pulled back) sits in the backseat of a well-worn Honda Civic, clutching a worn notebook covered in doodles and stickers. Her mother, ROSA MENDEZ (30s, tired but determined), checks her reflection in the rearview mirror, forcing a smile.

**ROSA**
*(overly cheerful)*
Mira, mi amor! Our new home! Isn't it... doesn't it have character?

**IDA**
*(not looking up from her notebook)*
Sí, Mamá. Like a villain in a horror movie has character.

**ROSA**
¡Ay, Ida! Don't be so dramática. This is our fresh start, ¿entiendes? New city, new opportunities—

**IDA**
New school where I don't know anybody.

Rosa turns around in her seat, her forced cheer softening into genuine concern.

**ROSA**
Mi'ja, I know it's hard. Pero tu papá's new job at the hospital, it's good money. Better than what we had in Fresno, ¿verdad?

Ida finally looks up, staring out the window at WOODSIDE ELEMENTARY visible down the street. A cluster of kids play basketball on the cracked courts. Her face fills with dread.

**IDA**
They're probably all friends already. Probably been together since kindergarten.

**ROSA**
Then they're lucky they'll get to meet you! My little estrella, remember what Abuela always says?

**IDA**
*(mumbling)*
"Donde una puerta se cierra, otra se abre."

**ROSA**
Exacto! Where one door closes—

**IDA**
Another one opens. But what if it's a door to a room full of kids who think I'm weird for carrying this everywhere?

She hugs her notebook tighter.

**ROSA**
That notebook has all your stories, all your dreams. Never be ashamed of that, ¿me oyes?

A HONK from the moving van. The MOVER, a burly man with tattoos, leans out.

**MOVER**
¡Señora! Where you want the couch?

**ROSA**
*(to Ida)*
Ándale, help me direct these guys. And remember - sonríe, mi amor. Even when you don't feel like it.

Ida forces the world's smallest smile.

**IDA**
Like this?

**ROSA**
*(laughing)*
¡Dios mío! You look constipated. Come on, let's go see your new room. It has a view of the taco shop!

**IDA**
*(slightly perking up)*
¿Al pastor?

**ROSA**
Sí, with the little pineapple on top and everything.

They exit the car. Ida takes one last long look at the school, then follows her mother toward the apartment, her notebook pressed against her chest like armor.

**IDA**
*(under her breath)*
Por favor, let there be at least one kid who doesn't think I'm a total bicho raro.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 3: Scene 3

INT. IDA'S NEW BEDROOM - NIGHT

A small room with bare walls except for a few taped-up posters of fantasy book covers. Cardboard boxes labeled "LIBROS," "ROPA," and "COSAS DE IDA" are scattered across the floor.

IDA kneels by an open box, carefully removing books one by one. She runs her fingers along their spines before placing them on a rickety bookshelf in precise alphabetical order. "The Chronicles of Narnia" next to "Dragon Riders of Pern." Her worn notebook sits open beside her, filled with sketches of mythical creatures.

The door creaks open. ROSA enters carrying two steaming mugs.

**ROSA**
Chocolate caliente, just how you like it. Extra marshmallows.

**IDA**
*(not looking up from organizing)*
Gracias, Mamá.

Rosa sets the mug on a cardboard box and sits on Ida's unmade bed, watching her daughter meticulously arrange the books.

**ROSA**
You know, when I was your age and we moved from Guadalajara to El Paso, I didn't talk to anyone for a whole month.

**IDA**
*(still organizing)*
Really?

**ROSA**
Mmm-hmm. Until this girl, Carmen, she saw me reading "Como Agua Para Chocolate" during lunch. Turned out she loved it too. We're still friends on Facebook.
*(pause)*
Mi amor, tomorrow's going to be okay. Better than okay.

Ida finally looks up, forcing a smile that doesn't reach her eyes.

**IDA**
I know, Mamá. It'll be fine.

**ROSA**
That's my brave girl. Mira, I put your night light in already—

**IDA**
*(quickly)*
I don't need it anymore.

**ROSA**
¿Segura? It's okay if—

**IDA**
I'm ten, not five.

Rosa stands, kisses the top of Ida's head.

**ROSA**
Bueno, but it's plugged in behind your desk if you change your mind. Don't stay up too late reading, ¿okay? Big day mañana.

**IDA**
Sí, Mamá. Buenas noches.

**ROSA**
Buenas noches, mi estrellita.

Rosa exits, closing the door softly.

Ida waits until she hears her mother's footsteps fade down the hall, then abandons her books and moves to the window. She cups her hands against the glass to see past her reflection.

Outside: unfamiliar streets under yellow streetlights. A cat prowls through an alley. Somewhere, music plays - not the conjunto she's used to, but something with heavy bass that rattles her window. Down the block, teenagers laugh at something on a phone, their voices carrying in the night air.

She picks up her notebook and sits on the windowsill, writing by the streetlight's glow.

**IDA**
*(whispering as she writes)*
"The girl in the tower looked out at the strange new kingdom, wondering if anyone down there even knew she existed..."

She stops writing, her pencil hovering over the page. A tear drops onto the paper, smudging the ink. She quickly wipes her face and closes the notebook.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
*(to herself)*
Don't be such a bebé.

She glances at the desk where the night light is hidden, then back at the unfamiliar shadows in her room. She hugs her notebook to her chest and remains at the window, a small silhouette against the night.

The moon emerges from behind clouds, casting her shadow across the unpacked boxes. She looks utterly alone.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 4: Scene 4

INT. WOODSIDE ELEMENTARY HALLWAY - DAY

The hallway is a chaos of peeling paint, flickering fluorescent lights, and exposed pipes covered in chipped white paint. Water stains bloom across ceiling tiles like brown flowers. A handwritten sign taped over the water fountain reads "OUT OF ORDER - USE BATHROOM SINK."

IDA clutches her schedule and new student folder against her chest, trying to make herself small as kids rush past. The noise is overwhelming - lockers slamming, sneakers squeaking on worn linoleum, voices bouncing off concrete walls.

She stops to check her schedule again: "ROOM 5B - MRS. PATTERSON - HOMEROOM"

A group of SIXTH GRADERS barrels past, one's backpack catching Ida's shoulder and spinning her into the wall.

**SIXTH GRADER**
*(not looking back)*
Watch it!

Ida presses herself against the wall, watching them disappear into the crowd. She looks down at her schedule - now crumpled from her grip.

More kids stream past. Two boys toss a basketball over everyone's heads. A girl applies lip gloss while walking, nearly colliding with Ida, who dodges at the last second.

**IDA**
*(to herself, checking schedule again)*
5B... 5B...

She passes Room 3A - door held shut with duct tape. Room 3B - a bucket sits under a steady drip from the ceiling. The hallway smells like industrial cleaner mixed with something vaguely cafeteria-related.

A TEACHER emerges from a classroom, coffee mug in hand, looking as tired as the building.

**IDA**
*(barely audible over the noise)*
Excuse me, where's—

The teacher walks past without hearing her. Ida's shoulders slump.

She continues down the hall, passing a trophy case with dusty awards from the 1990s. One trophy has fallen over. Nobody's bothered to stand it back up.

Room 4A, 4B... The numbers are getting closer. She sidesteps a piece of ceiling tile that's fallen to the floor, white chunks scattered like snow.

A bell RINGS - harsh and metallic. The hallway erupts into even more chaos as kids rush to beat the late bell. Ida gets caught in the current, pushed along like driftwood.

Finally - ROOM 5B. The B is written in Sharpie because the metal letter fell off. Through the small window, she can see kids already in their seats, talking and laughing with easy familiarity.

Ida stands frozen at the door, schedule now thoroughly crushed in her sweaty hand. Inside, someone laughs at something on their phone. They all look like they belong.

She takes a deep breath, hand on the doorknob. It sticks. She has to jiggle it and push harder. The door opens with a SCREECH that makes everyone look up.

Twenty-five pairs of eyes turn to stare at the new girl.

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(elderly, stern, not looking up from grading papers)*
You're late. Ida Mendez, I presume? Take the empty seat in the back. And close that door properly - I don't have time for it banging all day.

Ida steps inside, letting the door close softly behind her. Her face burns as she realizes she's still clutching her crumpled schedule like a life preserver.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 5: Scene 5

INT. ROOM 5B - CONTINUOUS

Ida enters to find barely controlled chaos. Paper airplanes sail overhead. Students cluster in groups, talking over each other. MRS. PATTERSON (70s, stern, gray hair in a tight bun, cardigan despite the California heat) stands at the front, gripping a grade book like a weapon.

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(sharp voice cutting through noise)*
Settle down! SETTLE DOWN THIS INSTANT!

A paper airplane lands on her desk. Her jaw tightens.

MARCUS (Black, constantly in motion) launches another airplane from his desk, grinning. Next to him, SOPHIE (Latina, pristine desk supplies arranged by color) shoots him a disapproving look while anxiously straightening her already-straight pencils.

**MRS. PATTERSON** *(CONT'D)*
*(wearily)*
We have a new student. Ida Mendez. Try not to scare this one off.

A few kids glance up. Most don't. Ida remains frozen by the door.

**DEANDRE** *(Black, oversized headphones around neck)*
*(not looking up from his phone)*
Yo, Mrs. P, when you gonna fix the speakers? Can't do my music project without—

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(snapping)*
Mr. Williams, I've been teaching for forty-three years without speakers, and we managed just fine with record players. Phone away. NOW.

**MAYA** *(Southeast Asian, stacks of library books)*
*(interrupting)*
Mrs. Patterson, the library's still closed. How am I supposed to—

**AISHA** *(Black, wearing paint-stained smock)*
*(simultaneously)*
The art supplies closet is locked again. I need—

**MRS. PATTERSON**
ENOUGH!

Brief silence. CESAR (Latino, worn soccer jersey) uses the moment to kick a hacky sack to TYLER (white, nervous energy), who fumbles it. It hits PRIYA (South Asian, meticulously taking notes) in the head.

**PRIYA**
*(exasperated)*
Seriously? Some of us are trying to learn here.

**TYLER**
*(rapid-fire speech)*
Sorry sorry sorry didn't mean to coach says I need to work on my reflexes but—

In the back, JAMAL (Black, small for his age) shrinks deeper into his hoodie. ELENA (Latina, bags under her eyes) texts under her desk, glancing worriedly at her phone.

**LILY** *(white, carrying three different inhalers)*
*(wheezing slightly)*
Mrs. Patterson, it's really dusty in here. Can we open—

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(cutting her off)*
The windows are painted shut. They've been painted shut since 2003. Ida, take that seat between Mr. Carter and Miss Rodriguez. NOW.

Ida navigates through the chaos. Books stacked on floor because shelves are broken. A corner of the ceiling sags ominously. A "READING IS FUNDAMENTAL" poster hangs by one corner, dated 1987.

She sits. Marcus immediately grins at her.

**MARCUS**
New girl! Watch this—

**SOPHIE**
*(hissing)*
Marcus, stop. You're gonna get us all in trouble. Again.
*(to Ida, anxiously)*
I'm Sophie. That's Marcus. He has no filter.

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(rubbing her temples)*
As I was TRYING to say before the interruptions... the District Academic Challenge is next month.

**MAYA**
What's the point? Jefferson Elementary has won five years straight.

**DEANDRE**
'Cause they got computers that actually turn on.

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(her voice rising)*
The point, Mr. Williams, is that we still have standards. We still have—
*(pauses, looking at the chaos)*
Oh, who am I kidding?

She walks to her desk, opens a drawer, and starts putting personal items into her worn leather bag. A coffee mug that says "World's Okayest Teacher." A bottle of aspirin. A stress ball worn smooth.

**SOPHIE**
Mrs. Patterson? What are you doing?

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(matter-of-factly)*
Something I should have done five years ago when they cut the budget for the third time.

Stunned silence. Then eruption.

**MAYA**
You're LEAVING?

**DEANDRE**
In the middle of class?

**AISHA**
*(angrily)*
Just like Mr. Rodriguez. And Ms. Chen—

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(whirling around)*
Mr. Rodriguez left because his car got broken into three times in the parking lot. Ms. Chen left because they wanted her to buy supplies with her own grocery money. And I'm leaving because I'm seventy-two years old, and I'm tired of fighting a system that doesn't care if you learn or not!

**LILY**
*(starting to wheeze)*
This is... this is really stressful...

Elena looks up from her phone for the first time, alarmed. Priya's pencil snaps from gripping it too hard. Tyler bounces in his seat frantically. Jamal pulls his hoodie completely over his face.

**MRS. PATTERSON** *(CONT'D)*
*(continuing to pack)*
Forty-three years. FORTY-THREE YEARS I've given to this district. And what do I have to show for it? A broken copier, outdated textbooks, and a ceiling that leaks every time someone flushes the toilet upstairs!

**SOPHIE**
*(voice cracking)*
But what about us?

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(pausing at the door)*
They'll send a substitute. Eventually. Maybe. Try not to burn the place down.

**MARCUS**
*(anger masking hurt)*
Whatever. We didn't need you anyway.

**MRS. PATTERSON**
*(looking back one last time)*
No, Mr. Carter. You needed a miracle. And I'm fresh out.

She exits, sensible shoes clicking down the hallway. The classroom erupts into chaos - angry voices, accusations, some kids near tears.

Ida sits in the middle of it all, forgotten, watching her new class fall apart on her very first day. She clutches her notebook tighter, wondering if it's too late to convince her mom to move back to Fresno.

Through the window, they can all see Mrs. Patterson in the parking lot, tossing her bag into a ancient Honda Civic and driving away without looking back.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 6: Scene 6

INT. PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE - DAY

The office tries to project authority but fails. A water stain spreads across one wall like a map of an unknown continent. PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS (50s, African-American, tired eyes, suit jacket over polo shirt) sits behind a desk covered in stacks of papers, unopened mail, and three different coffee cups in various stages of abandonment.

Facing him: FIVE CONCERNED PARENTS crammed into mismatched chairs. ROSA MENDEZ sits in the corner, having just been called from work, still in her hospital scrubs.

**ANGRY FATHER**
*(arms crossed)*
Forty minutes. She lasted forty minutes into the school year.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(forcing calm)*
Mr. Chen, I understand your frustration. Mrs. Patterson's departure was... unexpected.

**ANXIOUS MOTHER**
*(gripping her purse)*
Unexpected? She's the fourth teacher to quit 5B in two years! My daughter says the kids are running wild in there right now!

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
We have a hall monitor supervising—

**ANGRY FATHER**
A hall monitor? These kids need a TEACHER! Room 5B already has the lowest test scores in the entire district!

**PROFESSIONAL MOTHER**
*(checking phone)*
Jefferson Elementary's fifth grade scores are 40 points higher. FORTY POINTS.

**ROSA**
*(quietly)*
It's my daughter's first day. She just started...

The other parents turn to look at her sympathetically.

**ANXIOUS MOTHER**
Oh honey, I'm so sorry. Of all the classrooms...

**ANGRY FATHER**
Should've gotten her transferred to 5A. Ms. Martinez actually shows up.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(raising hands)*
Please, everyone. I've already made calls. We'll have a qualified substitute by tomorrow morning.

**PROFESSIONAL MOTHER**
*(skeptical)*
"Qualified." Like that substitute last year who showed movies every day?

**TIRED FATHER**
*(speaking for the first time)*
My son learned more about kung fu films than math that month.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
This time will be different. I promise you—

**ANGRY FATHER**
You promised us Mrs. Patterson would last the year!

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(losing patience slightly)*
Mrs. Patterson was seventy-two years old and working with outdated materials in a classroom with a leaking ceiling. We're doing the best we can with the budget we have.

**PROFESSIONAL MOTHER**
Maybe if the district didn't spend money on a new football field for the high school—

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
That's a different budget allocation, and you know it.

**ANXIOUS MOTHER**
What about the Academic Challenge? These kids don't stand a chance against Jefferson without proper preparation.

**TIRED FATHER**
Why do we even bother entering? It's humiliating every year.

**ROSA**
*(finding her voice)*
Perdón, but... shouldn't we be talking about what these kids need right now? Today? They're sitting in that classroom feeling abandoned.

The room goes quiet for a moment.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Mrs. Mendez is right. The immediate priority is stability. I assure you, we'll have someone in that classroom tomorrow who can—

His phone RINGS. He glances at it, his face falling.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS** *(CONT'D)*
*(into phone)*
Yes? ... She what? ... No, we need someone for TOMORROW... What do you mean the substitute list is empty? ... I see.

He hangs up. The parents stare at him.

**PROFESSIONAL MOTHER**
Don't tell me—

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(defeated)*
The district substitute pool is... experiencing shortages.

**ANGRY FATHER**
*(standing)*
This is unacceptable! My taxes—

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(also standing)*
Your taxes, Mr. Chen, go to a district that allocates $7,200 per student. Jefferson gets $11,000. You want to know why Room 5B has the lowest test scores? Do the math.

**ANXIOUS MOTHER**
So what happens tomorrow?

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(sitting back down heavily)*
I'll... I'll cover the class myself until we find someone.

**TIRED FATHER**
You're already teaching three other overflow classes.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Then I'll teach four.

The parents exchange looks - anger mixing with pity. Rosa stands quietly.

**ROSA**
I have to get back to work. Just... please. My daughter's been through enough changes already.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
I'll do everything I can, Mrs. Mendez. I promise.

But everyone in the room knows what those promises are worth at Woodside Elementary.

The parents file out, muttering among themselves. Principal Williams slumps in his chair, staring at the stacks of problems on his desk, then glances at a motivational poster hanging crookedly on his wall: "EVERY CHILD CAN SUCCEED!"

Someone has written underneath in pencil: "Results may vary."

CUT TO:

INT. IDA'S NEW BEDROOM - NIGHT

Ida sits on her bed in pajamas, her notebook open but the page blank. The events of the day have left her too drained to write. Through the thin walls, she can hear her mother on the phone, speaking in rapid Spanish to Abuela, trying to sound more optimistic than she feels.

**ROSA** *(O.S., muffled)*
No, Mamá, está bien... The school is just having some... adjustments...

Ida moves to the window, pressing her forehead against the cool glass. The urban night sprawls before her - streetlights, distant sirens, the neon glow of the taco shop. So different from Fresno.

She's about to turn away when something catches her eye - a streak of light arcing across the narrow strip of visible sky between buildings. A shooting star.

Ida's breath fogs the window. She closes her eyes tight, pressing her palms together.

**IDA**
*(whispering)*
Please... I don't need much. Just... just one friend. Someone who gets me. Someone who won't think I'm weird. Just one person who makes this place feel less... empty.

She opens her eyes. The star is gone, leaving only the orange-tinted city sky.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
*(to herself)*
Probably just a plane anyway.

But she stays at the window a moment longer, hoping. In the distance, somewhere she can't see, the Omnibus rolls quietly through the night, getting closer.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 7: Scene 7

INT. ROOM 5B - THE NEXT MORNING

The door creaks open. MARCUS peeks in cautiously, expecting chaos or another substitute with a DVD player. Instead, he freezes.

At the board stands MS. CORNFIELD (40s, African-American), her wild curly hair creating a halo effect in the morning light. She wears round spectacles that catch the light oddly, and an elaborate Victorian jacket in deep purple with gold trim, brass buttons, and intricate embroidery. She's writing names on the board in perfect cursive.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(without turning around)*
Good morning, Marcus Carter. Your grandmother's feeling better, I hope? That flu was quite persistent.

Marcus's jaw drops. He slowly enters, other students crowding behind him.

**MARCUS**
How did you—

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(turning with a warm smile)*
Sophie Rodriguez! Did your little brother finally lose that tooth? He was so worried it would never come out.

SOPHIE clutches her perfectly organized binder, stunned.

**SOPHIE**
He... he lost it last night. But how could you possibly—

More students file in, each greeted personally.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
DeAndre Williams - that new beat you've been working on, the one with the unusual time signature? Fascinating work. Maya Nguyen, the library may be closed, but knowledge finds a way, doesn't it? Cesar Gonzalez, that goal you scored last weekend - your father must have been so proud.

The students exchange bewildered looks. PRIYA enters, skeptical.

**PRIYA**
Okay, what's going on? Who told you all this stuff?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(adjusting her spectacles)*
Did any of you happen to see that magnificent shooting star last night? Around 9:47 PM? Such a special celestial event.

TYLER bounces nervously.

**TYLER**
I saw it! I was taking out the trash and it went right over our building and it was super bright and—

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Excellent observation skills, Tyler Chen. Your medication is helping with the focus, I see.

Tyler stops mid-bounce, mouth open.

IDA enters last, clutching her notebook. Ms. Cornfield's expression softens knowingly.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Ah, Ida Mendez. The girl who wished for a friend on that very star.

Ida freezes. The class turns to stare at her.

**IDA**
*(barely a whisper)*
I... I didn't tell anyone about that.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(gently)*
Some wishes are heard by those who know how to listen. I made a wish on that star too, you know. I wished that my next class would be one of a kind. And here you all are.

LILY raises her hand, wheezing slightly.

**LILY**
Um, Ms. Cornfield? Are you like... a regular substitute?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(writing "DISTRICT ACADEMIC CHALLENGE" on the board)*
Define "regular," Lily Park. Is anything regular about a classroom where the ceiling leaks when the upstairs toilet flushes? Is it regular that brilliant minds like yours are denied basic resources?

She turns to face them fully, her eyes seeming to sparkle behind her spectacles.

**MS. CORNFIELD** *(CONT'D)*
No, I am not regular. I am here because you need me. Because this classroom deserves better. Because sometimes wishes made on shooting stars actually come true.

JAMAL, usually silent in his hoodie, speaks up.

**JAMAL**
You're weird.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(beaming)*
Thank you, Jamal Washington. That's the nicest thing anyone's said to me in decades. Now, who can tell me about the Academic Challenge?

MAYA raises her hand tentatively.

**MAYA**
Jefferson always wins. We don't have a chance.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Jefferson has resources. But you know what you have that they don't?

**DEANDRE**
*(sarcastic)*
Broken computers?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Hunger. Creativity born from scarcity. And now...
*(she pulls an ornate pocket watch from her jacket)*
You have me. And I have never, in my entire existence, allowed a class of mine to fail when they truly tried.

ELENA, still worried about something on her phone, looks up.

**ELENA**
Your entire existence? How old are you?

Ms. Cornfield's smile becomes mysterious.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Old enough to know that shooting stars don't come for nothing, young enough to believe in impossible things before breakfast. Now, shall we begin doing the impossible?

She starts writing equations on the board - but not normal equations. They seem to shimmer and move slightly. AISHA squints at them.

**AISHA**
Are those... are those numbers dancing?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Mathematics is the music of the universe, Aisha Coleman. Why shouldn't numbers dance?

The students look at each other, a mixture of confusion, fear, and for the first time in a long time, curiosity. Whatever Ms. Cornfield is, she's definitely not a regular substitute.

Ms. Cornfield pauses at the board, tapping her chalk thoughtfully.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Oh, and one more thing. One of you is about to receive a very special friend. Quite soon, actually. They may not be what you expect, but they'll be exactly what you need.

The students exchange puzzled glances.

**MARCUS**
What kind of friend?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(smiling mysteriously)*
The kind that changes everything. Now, let's discuss how we're going to win this Academic Challenge, shall we?

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 8: Scene 8

INT. IDA'S NEW BEDROOM - AFTERNOON

Ida sits at her small desk, working on math homework. Her notebook lies open beside her textbook, filled with doodles of dragons and stars in the margins. Through the window, she can hear kids playing basketball at the court down the street.

She erases an answer, frustrated, blowing eraser shavings off the page. As she reaches for her pencil, she notices something odd about her notebook.

The doodles are... moving.

**IDA**
*(rubbing her eyes)*
What the...

The little sketched dragon in the corner stretches its wings. The stars she drew begin to twinkle. She blinks hard, looks again. Now her own handwriting - a grocery list she'd written for her mom - starts to rearrange itself.

"MILK, EGGS, BREAD" swirls and reshapes into:

"IDA MENDEZ, THE MAGICAL PET SHOP IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT YOU WILL BE THE FIRST TO GET YOUR FAMILIAR."

**IDA**
*(standing up, knocking her chair back)*
¡Ay, Dios mío!

She stares at the message, reading it over and over. The words shimmer slightly on the page, definitely not her handwriting.

**IDA**
*(whispering)*
Familiar? What's a Familiar? Magical Pet Shop?

The bedroom door opens. Rosa peeks in.

**ROSA**
Mi'ja, you okay? I heard something fall.

Ida spins around, blocking the notebook with her body.

**IDA**
*(too quickly)*
Fine! Everything's fine! Just dropped my... chair. Dropped my chair.

**ROSA**
*(confused)*
You dropped your chair?

**IDA**
I was... reaching for something.

Rosa eyes her suspiciously but shrugs.

**ROSA**
Okay. Well, I'm making quesadillas if you want some. That new teacher called - Ms. Cornfield? She says you're doing wonderfully.

**IDA**
She called? Already?

**ROSA**
Sí, very enthusiastic. A little strange, but better than no teacher, ¿verdad? Don't study too hard.

Rosa closes the door. Ida immediately turns back to her notebook. The message is still there, glowing faintly. She touches the page tentatively - the ink is completely dry, as if it had always been there.

**IDA**
*(to herself)*
"The first to get your Familiar." First of what? Who else is getting one?

She picks up her pencil with shaking fingers and writes underneath:

"What's a Familiar?"

Nothing happens. The message just sits there.

She tries again: "When?"

Still nothing.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
*(frustrated)*
"Hello? Anybody?"

The message suddenly swirls, the letters dancing back into her grocery list. The dragon returns to being a simple sketch. The stars stop twinkling. Everything normal again, except for her racing heart.

Ida stares at her notebook, then at her window where the afternoon sun streams in normally. She closes the notebook and holds it against her chest.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
*(whispering)*
The Magical Pet Shop. A Familiar. I'm going crazy. I'm actually going crazy.

**ROSA** *(O.S.)*
¡Ida! ¡Quesadillas!

**IDA**
*(calling back)*
Coming, Mamá!

Ida stands slowly, notebook still clutched to her chest. She looks around her room - at her fantasy books, her unmade bed, the view of the taco shop. Everything looks exactly the same, but nothing feels the same anymore.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
*(to herself)*
"The first to get your Familiar."

She sets the notebook carefully on her desk, as if it might explode. Whatever a Familiar is, whenever it's coming, her life has already changed. The magic has already begun.

She heads to the door, pausing to look back at the innocent-looking notebook one more time.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
Please don't let me be going crazy.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 9: Scene 9

INT. ROOM 5B - THE NEXT DAY

Ms. Cornfield stands at the board, writing complex equations with her usual flair. The students are actually engaged - Maya taking notes, DeAndre tapping out mathematical rhythms, even Marcus paying attention.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Now, for the Academic Challenge, we'll need to think beyond conventional—

The door BURSTS open.

MORTIMER MORRISON sweeps in, his long dark coat billowing dramatically. He still wears his fur-lined ushanka despite the California heat, his red bandana bright against his burgundy vest. He strikes a pose in the doorway.

**MORRISON**
*(grandly)*
Fear not, young scholars! Assistance has arrived!

The class erupts in giggles. Tyler bounces excitedly. Marcus immediately launches a paper airplane that Morrison catches without looking.

**MARCUS**
Who's the dude dressed like he's in a play?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(smiling)*
Class, I'd like you to meet my brother, Mortimer Morrison. He's the owner of a very special pet shop. He's here to help with our Academic Challenge preparation.

A MAGPIE suddenly flies through the open door, landing on Morrison's shoulder.

**PENNY**
Alright, alright, where are these kids who need— OH MY LORD, this ceiling really DOES leak!

The class gasps. Several students stand up. Lily starts wheezing.

**LILY**
The bird... the bird just TALKED!

**PENNY**
*(offended)*
"The bird"? I have a name, honey. It's Penny. And you must be Lily with the three inhalers. Sweetie, you need to see an allergist about that cat dander situation.

**LILY**
How did you—I don't even have a cat!

**PENNY**
No, but your neighbor Mrs. Chen has three, and they sleep on your shared fire escape.

Morrison walks slowly through the classroom, studying each student with theatrical intensity. He stops at Jamal, still hidden in his hoodie.

**MORRISON**
*(gently)*
Young man, your light dims when it should shine.

He moves to Elena, who clutches her phone.

**MORRISON**
Worry for others weighs upon your shoulders.

He pauses at Ida's desk. His expression softens.

**MORRISON**
And you... you've already heard from us, haven't you?

Ida's eyes widen. She nods slightly.

**IDA**
The notebook. The message.

The class starts talking all at once.

**MAYA**
What message?

**DEANDRE**
Yo, is this some kind of magic thing?

**PRIYA**
There's no such thing as magic. This is clearly some sort of elaborate—

Penny flies to Priya's desk.

**PENNY**
Honey, I'm a talking magpie. You might want to reconsider your definitions.

Morrison returns to the front of the room, spreading his arms wide.

**MORRISON**
You've all been struggling. Abandoned by a system that doesn't see your potential. Fighting with broken tools against well-equipped opponents.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
My brother has a... unique solution to help you win the Academic Challenge.

**MORRISON**
*(spinning dramatically)*
You need help! Not just any help. Magical help. Extraordinary help!

**CESAR**
Like what, a magic tutor?

**MORRISON**
*(grinning)*
Better. So much better. Tell me, children, what do you know about Familiars?

Blank stares all around except from Ida, who raises her hand tentatively.

**IDA**
I got a message saying I'd be the first to get one. But I don't know what they are.

**MORRISON**
Ah! Excellent! A Familiar is a magical companion. A friend. A helper. A creature of extraordinary abilities who bonds with a human in need.

**PENNY**
Like me and this drama queen here.

**MORRISON**
*(clutching his chest)*
You wound me, Penny!

**PENNY**
Daily. It's part of my charm.

**AISHA**
Wait, so you're saying we're all going to get magical animal friends?

**MORRISON**
Not all. Not yet. We start with one.
*(looking at Ida)*
A trial run, you might say. If it works...

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Then we expand the program.

**TYLER**
*(rapidly)*
This is crazy this is insane this can't be real but the bird is talking and you're dressed like a wizard and—

**MORRISON**
*(interrupting grandly)*
I am NOT a wizard! I am a proprietor of mystical creatures and magical bonds! Completely different thing!

**DEANDRE**
So when does Ida get her... whatever?

Morrison checks his ornate pocket watch, identical to Ms. Cornfield's.

**MORRISON**
Today. Before the sun sets. The bonds between Familiars and their humans cannot be rushed, but this one... this one is ready.

**PENNY**
*(to Morrison)*
Stop being so mysterious. You're scaring them.

**MORRISON**
*(defensively)*
I'm building anticipation!

**MS. CORNFIELD**
What my brother means is that Ida's Familiar has already begun their journey here.

**MORRISON**
By evening, young Ida, you'll meet your new companion. The universe has already set things in motion.

Ida shifts nervously in her seat, unsure whether to be excited or terrified.

**IDA**
*(quietly)*
Today? But I'm not ready...

**MORRISON**
No one ever feels ready for magic, dear child. That's what makes it magic.

**MARCUS**
This is either the coolest thing ever or we're all having a group hallucination.

**PENNY**
Honey, if this was a hallucination, would I be this sassy?

**SOPHIE**
*(anxiously)*
What if... what if we don't want a Familiar?

Morrison's expression softens.

**MORRISON**
No one will be forced, dear child. Familiars only bond with those who truly need and want them. It's a mutual choice.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 10: Scene 10

INT. ROOM 5B - CONTINUOUS

Morrison stands suddenly, commanding the room's attention.

**MORRISON**
Before we proceed, I must have your word - your SACRED word - that what happens in this classroom stays in this classroom.

**MARCUS**
Dude, who are we gonna tell? "Hey mom, a talking bird visited our class today?"

**PENNY**
That's EXACTLY what you might say. And that's why we need the oath.

Morrison raises his hands dramatically.

**MORRISON**
Repeat after me, all of you! Even you, Ms. Cornfield.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(amused)*
Really, Mortimer?

**MORRISON**
Especially you. Now, everyone stand!

The students reluctantly stand. Morrison begins:

**MORRISON** *(CONT'D)*
"By moon and star and secret things..."

**CLASS**
*(uncertainly)*
By moon and star and secret things...

**MORRISON**
"We swear to guard what magic brings..."

**CLASS**
*(stronger)*
We swear to guard what magic brings...

**MORRISON**
"No word shall pass our lips in tell..."

**CLASS**
No word shall pass our lips in tell...

**MORRISON**
"Of wonders woven by this spell."

**CLASS**
Of wonders woven by this spell.

**PENNY**
Very nice. Very dramatic. Very legally non-binding, but the kids don't know that.

**MORRISON**
PENNY!

**PENNY**
What? I'm just saying.

Morrison shakes his head, then faces the class with renewed grandeur. He spreads his arms wide, gripping the edges of his long coat.

**MORRISON**
Now then. Ida Mendez, please stand and come forward.

Ida rises on shaky legs, walking to the front as her classmates watch in anticipation.

**MORRISON** *(CONT'D)*
Behold!

He throws open his coat. Where the lining should be, there's a swirling vortex of colors - purples, golds, silvers, all spinning like a gentle galaxy. The classroom GASPS collectively. Lily drops her inhaler. Tyler stops bouncing entirely.

**DEANDRE**
Yo, that's not... that's not possible...

From within the swirling portal, a sleek red fox emerges, stepping gracefully onto the classroom floor. This is ROBBIE, his intelligent eyes scanning the room before focusing on Ida.

Without hesitation, Robbie runs toward her and leaps. Ida instinctively catches him, surprised by how light he feels.

**ROBBIE**
*(looking directly at Ida, voice smooth with Pedro Pascal charm)*
Worried about fitting in? How delightfully ironic, considering you're now holding a talking fox in a classroom where the ceiling leaks when someone flushes.

Ida's jaw drops. The class erupts.

**MAYA**
IT TALKS!

**CESAR**
No way no way no way!

**SOPHIE**
*(to herself, organizing her pencils frantically)*
This is not normal. This is very not normal.

Robbie turns his head to address the class while still in Ida's arms.

**ROBBIE**
Yes, I talk. Also, I can sense there are exactly seventeen mice in this building's walls, your cafeteria's "chicken" nuggets are only 43% chicken, and someone in this room is hiding candy in their desk.
*(looking at Marcus)*
Third drawer, left side. Skittles.

**MARCUS**
*(defensive)*
How did you—those are emergency Skittles!

Ida finally finds her voice.

**IDA**
You're... you're my Familiar?

**ROBBIE**
*(turning back to her)*
If you'll have me. I've been told you need a friend. I happen to need a home. Seems we might be able to help each other.

**IDA**
But I don't know anything about foxes...

**ROBBIE**
And I don't know anything about ten-year-old girls who write stories. We'll learn together. Besides...
*(lowering his voice so only she can hear)*
Between you and me, fitting in is overrated. Standing out? That's where the magic happens.

Morrison closes his coat, the portal disappearing.

**MORRISON**
The bond has begun! Ida Mendez and Robbie the Fox - the first of what may be many partnerships!

**PENNY**
*(to the class)*
Fair warning - fox fur on everything you own. EVERYTHING.

**JAMAL**
*(from his hoodie)*
Do we all get one?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
That depends on how well this trial goes. And how well you all keep your oath.

Ida looks down at Robbie, who winks at her. For the first time since arriving in California, she doesn't feel alone.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 11: Scene 11

INT. ROOM 5B - CONTINUOUS

The celebration is cut short by FOOTSTEPS in the hallway - heavy, authoritative.

**SOPHIE**
*(panicked whisper)*
Principal Williams!

In an instant, Robbie goes rigid in Ida's arms, transforming into a perfectly ordinary stuffed fox toy. His glass eyes become plastic buttons, his sleek fur becomes synthetic plush. He falls from Ida's surprised grip to the floor.

**IDA**
Robbie!

She scoops him up quickly, clutching him to her chest as the door opens.

PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS enters, his tired eyes immediately suspicious. He scans the room - Morrison in his theatrical outfit, Penny on his shoulder, the students all standing and looking guilty.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Ms. Cornfield. I heard... unusual noises. And who is this?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(smoothly)*
Principal Williams, this is Mr. Morrison, an educational consultant. He's demonstrating innovative learning tools.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(skeptical)*
Learning tools?

**MORRISON**
*(with a bow)*
Interactive educational companions! Tactile learning aids designed to reduce anxiety and improve focus in struggling students.

Principal Williams notices the stuffed fox in Ida's arms.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Ms. Mendez, what do you have there?

**IDA**
*(nervously)*
It's... it's a fox. A stuffed fox.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
May I see it?

Ida reluctantly hands over Robbie. Principal Williams examines him closely, turning him over, checking the seams, squeezing the plush body. Robbie remains perfectly toy-like.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(to Morrison)*
You're giving toys to the students?

**MORRISON**
Educational companions. Studies show that comfort objects can improve test scores by up to 23% in high-stress environments.

**PENNY**
*(helpfully)*
Caw! Educational! Caw!

Principal Williams looks at Penny suspiciously.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Is that bird part of this... program?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Observational learning. Children respond well to animals.

**MORRISON**
All completely approved by the... National Educational Comfort Initiative.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
I've never heard of—

**MS. CORNFIELD**
It's very new. Very progressive. Perfect for helping Room 5B with the Academic Challenge.

Principal Williams sighs, handing Robbie back to Ida.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Ms. Cornfield, I appreciate innovation, but please clear any... unusual teaching methods with me first. We can't afford any more disruptions. Or lawsuits.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Of course, Principal Williams.

He gives Morrison one last suspicious look.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Mr. Morrison, do you have credentials I could review?

**MORRISON**
*(producing an ornate business card from thin air)*
Everything you need is right here.

Principal Williams takes the card, squints at it, then pockets it.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Fine. But keep it down. And Ms. Cornfield? No more surprises.

He exits. Everyone holds their breath until his footsteps fade down the hallway.

Suddenly, Robbie transforms back in Ida's arms, gasping dramatically.

**ROBBIE**
Do you have ANY idea how uncomfortable it is being squeezed by a man who uses that much hand sanitizer? I can still smell the alcohol.

The class erupts in amazed chatter.

**TYLER**
That was INSANE! You turned into a toy!

**MAYA**
How is that even possible?

Morrison raises his hands for silence.

**MORRISON**
That, children, is what I call "petrification." Every Familiar bonded through my shop has this ability - to transform into an innocent stuffed animal at will.

**ROBBIE**
*(stretching)*
Though "petrification" makes it sound much more dramatic than it is. It's more like... strategic plushification.

**PENNY**
Morrison spent three years perfecting that spell. Lot of trial and error. You should've seen the early attempts - half-toy, half-alive. Nightmare fuel.

**MORRISON**
*(defensively)*
It's a complex enchantment! Maintaining consciousness while appearing inanimate requires precise magical calibration!

**DEANDRE**
So Robbie can just... become a toy whenever?

**ROBBIE**
Whenever danger approaches or whenever Ida needs me to. It's quite handy, actually. Though I draw the line at tea parties.

**IDA**
*(still amazed)*
You were so still. So... normal-looking.

**ROBBIE**
Years of practice, my dear. Well, actually, about a week of practice, but I'm a quick learner.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
This ability will be essential for keeping Robbie secret. Not everyone is ready to accept magic in their daily lives.

**MARCUS**
That's the coolest thing I've ever seen. When do I get a Familiar?

**MORRISON**
Patience, young man. Let's see how our trial run goes first. One magical fox at a time.

Ida hugs Robbie tighter, amazed that her magical friend can hide in plain sight whenever needed.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 12: Scene 12

EXT. URBAN CALIFORNIA NEIGHBORHOOD - AFTER SCHOOL

Ida walks down the sidewalk, Robbie trotting beside her when the coast is clear. When people approach, he instantly becomes a stuffed toy in her arms.

A group of teenagers passes. Robbie is plush. They turn the corner - he springs back to life.

**ROBBIE**
This transformation thing is giving me whiplash. How many humans are in this neighborhood?

**IDA**
*(giggling)*
A lot. Welcome to the city.

They pass the taco shop. Robbie's nose twitches frantically.

**ROBBIE**
What is that MAGNIFICENT smell?

**IDA**
Al pastor. My favorite.

**ROBBIE**
We're going to be best friends, I can tell.

They continue walking and pass a churro cart. Robbie stops dead in his tracks, his entire body quivering.

**ROBBIE** *(CONT'D)*
*(reverent whisper)*
What... what is THAT divine aroma?

**IDA**
Churros? They're like fried dough with cinnamon sugar—

**ROBBIE**
*(practically floating toward the cart)*
Cinnamon? Sugar? Fried? These are all my favorite words! Ida, I think I'm having a spiritual experience.

**IDA**
*(laughing)*
They're just churros!

**ROBBIE**
JUST churros? That's like saying the Mona Lisa is JUST a painting! The sunset is JUST colors! This is... this is poetry in pastry form!

The CHURRO VENDOR notices Ida seemingly talking to her stuffed fox.

**CHURRO VENDOR**
¿Todo bien, niña?

**IDA**
*(quickly)*
Sí, señor. Just... playing.

She hurries Robbie away. He keeps looking back longingly.

**ROBBIE**
We're coming back for those, right? Please tell me we're coming back for those.

**IDA**
Maybe tomorrow. With my allowance.

**ROBBIE**
I love you. Have I mentioned that? You're my favorite human.

They reach an empty alley. Robbie immediately scrambles up a dumpster, leaps to a fire escape, and performs an impressive backflip, landing perfectly.

**ROBBIE** *(CONT'D)*
I've been DYING to do that all day! You have no idea how constraining that classroom was.

**IDA**
*(laughing)*
Show off.

**ROBBIE**
Wait till you see what I can do with a tennis ball. Or a churro. Especially a churro.

INT. IDA'S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - EVENING

Ida enters with Robbie as a stuffed toy.

**ROSA** *(O.S.)*
¿Mi'ja? Is that you?

**IDA**
Sí, Mamá! Just going to my room to study!

She rushes to her bedroom, closes the door. Robbie transforms.

**ROBBIE**
*(looking around)*
So this is your lair. Very... literary. I approve of the dragon posters.

INT. IDA'S BEDROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT

Ida and Robbie face off on her bed, each wielding a pillow.

**IDA**
You asked for it!

She swings. Robbie dodges with fox-like agility, then grabs his pillow in his teeth, shaking it playfully. RIIIIIP! Feathers EXPLODE everywhere.

**ROBBIE**
*(mouth full of feathers)*
Oops.

**IDA**
*(trying not to laugh)*
Robbie!

Footsteps in the hallway. Robbie instantly transforms, falling among the feathers. Rosa opens the door.

**ROSA**
¡Ida! ¿Qué pasó aquí?

**IDA**
*(standing in a cloud of feathers)*
I... the pillow... it just exploded?

Rosa notices the stuffed fox covered in feathers.

**ROSA**
Since when do you have a stuffed fox?

**IDA**
Ms. Cornfield gave it to me. For, um, anxiety.

**ROSA**
*(softening)*
Oh, mi amor. Are you still worried about school?

**IDA**
Actually... today was better. Much better.

**ROSA**
*(smiling)*
Good. Clean this up before bed, okay? And maybe keep your anxiety fox away from the pillows.

She leaves. Robbie transforms back, spitting out feathers.

**ROBBIE**
"Anxiety fox"? That's what I am now?

**IDA**
*(grinning)*
Would you prefer "emotional support fox"?

CUT TO:

INT. MARCUS'S APARTMENT - SAME TIME

Marcus sits at a cluttered kitchen table, math homework in front of him. His mother, PATRICIA CARTER (40s, still in work uniform), stands over him, exhausted but firm.

**PATRICIA**
Marcus, you can't keep ignoring your homework.

**MARCUS**
It's boring! And pointless! When am I ever gonna use algebra?

**PATRICIA**
When you're trying to get into college. When you're trying to get a job that pays more than minimum wage.

**MARCUS**
Maybe I don't want to go to college.

**PATRICIA**
*(frustrated)*
Baby, I work two jobs so you can have opportunities I didn't. Don't throw that away.

**MARCUS**
I'm not throwing anything away! I just... I learn different, okay?

**PATRICIA**
*(sighing)*
Just... try. Please. For me.

She kisses his head, heads to her bedroom.

**PATRICIA** *(CONT'D)*
I have to be at my other job at 5 AM. There's leftover chicken in the fridge.

Her door closes. Marcus stares at his homework, frustrated. He starts to write, then stops. The numbers and letters on his worksheet begin to move.

**MARCUS**
What the...

The equations rearrange themselves:

"MARCUS CARTER, THE MAGICAL PET SHOP IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT YOU WILL BE THE SECOND TO GET YOUR FAMILIAR."

Marcus jumps back, knocking his chair over.

**MARCUS** *(CONT'D)*
*(whispering)*
No way. No freakin' way.

He grabs the paper, examining it. The message shimmers, then swirls back into math problems. Marcus looks toward his mother's room, then back at the paper.

**MARCUS** *(CONT'D)*
*(grinning)*
Second, huh? Guess Ida wasn't so special after all.

He picks up his pencil and writes: "When?"

Nothing happens. He waits. Still nothing.

**MARCUS** *(CONT'D)*
*(to the paper)*
Come on, don't leave me hanging!

The paper remains silent. Marcus grins anyway, suddenly excited about tomorrow for the first time in a long time.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 13: Scene 13

INT. ROOM 5B - THE NEXT DAY

The students are working on practice problems for the Academic Challenge. Ida sits with Robbie in stuffed form on her desk. Marcus struggles with a math worksheet, erasing answers repeatedly.

The door opens. Morrison enters with his usual flourish, Penny on his shoulder.

**MORRISON**
Good morning, brilliant minds!

**MARCUS**
*(not looking up)*
Yeah, yeah, magic man. Where's my Familiar?

**PENNY**
Patience isn't your strong suit, is it, sugar?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(knowingly)*
Actually, I believe Mr. Morrison has something special today.

Morrison walks to Marcus's desk, studying him with theatrical intensity.

**MORRISON**
Marcus Carter. Quick with a joke, quicker to deflect. You armor yourself with humor because the world keeps telling you you're not smart enough.

**MARCUS**
*(defensive)*
Man, I don't need a therapy session—

**MORRISON**
You need someone who understands that intelligence comes in many forms.

He opens his coat, revealing the swirling portal. But instead of something leaping out, there's a long pause.

**DEANDRE**
Yo, is it broken?

**MORRISON**
*(grinning)*
She's taking her time. She always does.

Finally, from the portal, emerges HENRIETTA - a small, ancient Caribbean tortoise about the size of a softball. Her shell is weathered and magnificent, her eyes holding centuries of wisdom. She moves with deliberate, unhurried grace.

**HENRIETTA**
*(voice rich with Whoopi Goldberg's energy)*
Two hundred years on this earth, and you rush me through a magic portal? Child, please.

The class gasps. Marcus's jaw drops.

**MARCUS**
My Familiar is... a tiny turtle?

**HENRIETTA**
*(slowly turning her head)*
TORTOISE, young man. Very different. Turtles swim. I sink like a beautifully decorated rock. And "tiny"? I prefer "travel-sized," thank you very much.

She continues her slow journey across Morrison's palm, then down his arm to Marcus's desk. The class watches in fascinated silence.

**TYLER**
*(whispering)*
She's so small! How's she gonna help with anything?

**HENRIETTA**
I heard that. Size ain't everything, baby. You ever hear of David and Goliath? Besides, this compact model fits perfectly in your backpack. Try doing that with a Great Dane.

She reaches Marcus's desk, looking up at him with ancient eyes.

**HENRIETTA** *(CONT'D)*
So. You're Marcus. The boy who thinks he's stupid because he can't learn the way they want you to.

**MARCUS**
*(quieter)*
I didn't say I was stupid.

**HENRIETTA**
Didn't have to. It's written all over that worksheet you've erased seventeen times. Let me tell you something - I may not read these book-things, but your mind just works different.

Marcus, for once, has no joke. He listens intently, gently picking up Henrietta to bring her to eye level.

**HENRIETTA** *(CONT'D)*
I've lived through war, famine, pestilence, and disco. You know what I learned? There's more than one way to be brilliant. You see patterns others miss. You connect ideas in ways that would make these textbook writers dizzy.

**MARCUS**
How do you know that?

**HENRIETTA**
Baby, when you've been around as long as I have, you learn to read people, not just books. Your brain? It's not broken. It's just speaking a different language. And lucky for you...
*(smiling, if tortoises can smile)*
I'm multilingual.

Marcus opens his satchel.

**MARCUS**
You really gonna fit in here?

**HENRIETTA**
Honey, I spent three decades in a ship captain's coat pocket sailing around the Caribbean. Your satchel is a luxury suite. Plus, you got snacks in there. I can smell the Skittles.

**SOPHIE**
*(amazed)*
You're really two hundred years old?

**HENRIETTA**
Two hundred and seven, but who's counting? Seen the Caribbean go from pirates to cruise ships. Watched empires rise and fall. And let me tell you, most of them fell because they only valued one kind of smart.

Robbie transforms from his stuffed form.

**ROBBIE**
Henrietta! I didn't know you were coming!

**HENRIETTA**
Robbie, honey! How's the fox life treating you? You're looking good for someone who's not pocket-sized.

**ROBBIE**
Can't complain. Discovered something called churros yesterday. Life-changing.

**HENRIETTA**
*(to Marcus)*
See? Fox boy here gets it. Life's about discovering what works for YOU, not what works for everybody else. And what works for me is being small enough to whisper wisdom in your ear during tests.

Marcus gently places Henrietta in his satchel. She pokes her head out.

**MARCUS**
So... you're gonna help me pass?

**HENRIETTA**
I'm gonna help you understand that "passing" and "learning" ain't always the same thing. We're gonna find YOUR way. Might take some time - I don't do anything fast - but we'll get there.

**PENNY**
*(to Morrison)*
A pocket tortoise? That's actually brilliant. No one expects the tiny wise one.

**HENRIETTA**
Excuse me, Miss Magpie, but I can also turn into a stuffed animal faster than you can say "petrification." Size has nothing to do with speed when magic's involved. Watch.

Instantly, she becomes a small plush tortoise toy that could pass for a keychain.

**MARCUS**
Yo, that's perfect! No one would even notice!

Henrietta transforms back.

**HENRIETTA**
Now, let's look at this math problem from your satchel-level view. And this time, instead of thinking about what the book wants, tell me what YOU see.

Marcus looks at his worksheet, then at Henrietta peeking out from his bag, and for the first time in a long time, he doesn't feel dumb.

**MARCUS**
I see... patterns. Like, these numbers, they're doing a dance, right?

**HENRIETTA**
Now you're talking my language, baby. Show me the dance. And the best part? I can come everywhere with you. Library, cafeteria, even home. Portable wisdom, at your service.

The class watches as Marcus starts explaining math in his own way, with Henrietta nodding slowly from the satchel.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(to Morrison, quietly)*
Perfect match.

**MORRISON**
*(proudly)*
They always are.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 14: Scene 14

INT. MARCUS'S APARTMENT - EVENING

Marcus enters, tossing his satchel gently on the couch. The apartment is quiet - his mother still at her second job. Leftover containers crowd the fridge, each labeled with days of the week.

**MARCUS**
Coast is clear.

Henrietta pokes her head out of the satchel, then slowly emerges.

**HENRIETTA**
Nice place. Lived in. That's what I like to see. None of that sterile, everything-matches nonsense.

Marcus grabs a soda from the fridge, then sits on the floor with his homework. Henrietta makes her way down from the couch - taking her time.

**MARCUS**
You need help?

**HENRIETTA**
Baby, I've been climbing down furniture since before your great-great-grandparents were born. I got this.

She finally reaches the floor, walks to his homework.

**HENRIETTA** *(CONT'D)*
So. Your mama works two jobs?

**MARCUS**
*(defensive)*
Yeah. So?

**HENRIETTA**
So nothing. Just recognizing another warrior when I hear about one. Woman's fighting for you. Question is, are you fighting for yourself?

Marcus looks at his math homework, sighs.

**MARCUS**
I try. But it's like... everyone else gets it so fast. Sophie just looks at problems and knows the answer. Priya memorizes everything perfectly. And me? I gotta turn everything into something else in my head just to understand it.

**HENRIETTA**
And what's wrong with that?

**MARCUS**
It takes forever!

**HENRIETTA**
*(chuckling)*
Child, you're talking to a tortoise about things taking forever? Let me tell you something - I once took three months to cross a plantation. THREE MONTHS. But I made it. And along the way, I saw things the fast-moving folks missed.

She looks at his worksheet.

**HENRIETTA** *(CONT'D)*
Now, show me how your brain sees this problem. Don't rush. We got time.

**MARCUS**
Okay, so... this equation here? To me it looks like a basketball play. Like, X is the point guard, right? And he's gotta pass to Y...

**HENRIETTA**
Keep going.

As Marcus explains, his hands move like he's directing players on a court. Henrietta nods slowly.

**HENRIETTA**
You know what you're doing? You're translating. Some folks translate Spanish to English. You translate math to life.

**MARCUS**
But teachers don't care about that.

**HENRIETTA**
Most teachers never learned there's more than one language for learning. But Ms. Cornfield? She's different. And now you got me.

The front door opens. Marcus quickly scoops up Henrietta.

**PATRICIA** *(O.S.)*
Marcus? You home?

**MARCUS**
Yeah, Ma! Doing homework!

Patricia enters, exhausted, still in her restaurant uniform. She stops, seeing Marcus actually working.

**PATRICIA**
You're... you're doing math? Without me asking seventeen times?

**MARCUS**
Yeah, I got a new... study method.

He holds up Henrietta in her stuffed form.

**MARCUS** *(CONT'D)*
Ms. Cornfield gave us these. For stress or whatever.

**PATRICIA**
*(suspicious but too tired to investigate)*
A stuffed turtle?

**MARCUS**
Tortoise. There's a difference.

Patricia raises an eyebrow but smiles slightly.

**PATRICIA**
Whatever works, baby. There's leftover Chinese in the fridge. I gotta shower and get to the hotel for my night shift.

She kisses his head, heads to her room. Once her door closes, Henrietta transforms back.

**HENRIETTA**
*(whispering)*
She loves you something fierce.

**MARCUS**
*(quietly)*
I know.

**HENRIETTA**
Then let's make her proud. Not their way - YOUR way. Now, back to this basketball equation...

Marcus smiles, picking up his pencil with new determination. For the first time, homework doesn't feel like punishment.

**MARCUS**
So if X passes to Y, and Y has to score before the shot clock...

**HENRIETTA**
Now you're cooking with gas, baby. Keep going.

Outside the window, the city lights twinkle. Inside, a boy and his ancient tortoise are rewriting the rules of learning, one problem at a time.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 15: Scene 15

INT. ROOM 5B - THE NEXT DAY

DeAndre sits at his desk, headphones around his neck, trying to look casual but clearly anxious. His notebook is open to homework that's been transformed back to normal after displaying his Familiar message last night.

Robbie sits on Ida's desk, meticulously grooming his tail. Henrietta munches on lettuce from Marcus's lunch, taking her sweet time with each bite.

**ROBBIE**
*(between licks)*
Who'll get their Familiar next? The suspense is killing me.

**HENRIETTA**
*(chewing slowly)*
Patience, fox boy. Good things come to those who wait. This lettuce, for example. Marcus brought the good stuff today.

**MARCUS**
It's just iceberg lettuce.

**HENRIETTA**
After two centuries, you learn to appreciate the simple things.

Morrison enters with his usual flair.

**MORRISON**
Mr. Williams! I believe you've been expecting something?

**DEANDRE**
*(playing it cool)*
Maybe. Maybe not.

**PENNY**
Oh please, honey. You've been checking that notebook every five minutes.

Morrison opens his coat portal. A small black and white blur SHOOTS out, sliding across the floor on its belly.

**YURI** *(small penguin, Kevin Hart energy)*
YOOOOO! What's good, Room 5B! Your boy Yuri has arrived! Antarctic's finest, baby!

The penguin pops up, barely two feet tall, striking a pose.

**YURI** *(CONT'D)*
That's right, that's right! Straight from the South Pole to the South Side... wait, this is the West Coast. Whatever! Geography ain't my strong suit!

Robbie stops grooming mid-lick. Henrietta pauses with lettuce hanging from her mouth.

**ROBBIE**
Did... did he just slide in here like a bowling ball?

**HENRIETTA**
*(swallowing her lettuce)*
Child's got energy. I'm tired just watching him.

The class stares in shock. DeAndre's face shows a mix of excitement and concern.

**DEANDRE**
You're... a penguin?

**YURI**
*(waddling over)*
Not just ANY penguin, my man! I'm YOUR penguin! We about to be the most fire duo since... since... yo, what's a good duo?

**MARCUS**
Batman and Robin?

**YURI**
NAH! Better! Like... like French fries and ketchup! No wait - like ice and... more ice! I don't know, I'm from Antarctica, everything's ice there!

He attempts to jump onto DeAndre's desk but slips, sliding into the wall.

**YURI** *(CONT'D)*
*(recovering quickly)*
I meant to do that! That's called style! You wouldn't understand!

**ROBBIE**
*(to Ida)*
Is he always like this?

**HENRIETTA**
*(returning to her lettuce)*
Oh, this is gonna be exhausting. I need more vegetables.

**DEANDRE**
*(whispering)*
Are you gonna help me with my music?

**YURI**
*(suddenly serious, but still loud)*
YO! Your music is TIGHT! But you know what your problem is? You're too scared to let people hear it! You got bangers on that laptop but you hiding them like they're government secrets!

**DEANDRE**
*(defensive)*
I'm not scared—

**YURI**
Bro, you've been "perfecting" the same track for three months! At some point, you gotta let the baby bird fly! Or in my case, let the penguin slide!

**ROBBIE**
*(resuming tail grooming)*
He's got a point. Ida was scared to share her stories too. Now look at her.

**IDA**
I'm still scared.

**ROBBIE**
But you're doing it anyway. That's courage.

**HENRIETTA**
*(to Yuri)*
You're loud, but you're not wrong. Boy needs to stop hiding his light under a bushel. Or in his case, under those giant headphones.

**YURI**
*(to Henrietta)*
See? The ancient one gets it! Wait, are you ancient? You look ancient. No offense.

**HENRIETTA**
Two hundred and seven years, baby. And I've seen plenty of talented folks waste away waiting for "perfect."

**YURI**
EXACTLY! We're gonna change that! DeAndre, my man, we're gonna get your music OUT THERE!

He attempts a celebratory slide but crashes into Marcus's desk. Henrietta pulls her lettuce away protectively.

**HENRIETTA**
Watch the lunch, penguin.

**YURI**
My bad, my bad! Still getting used to floors that aren't ice!

**ROBBIE**
*(to Ida)*
This is going to be interesting.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(smiling)*
Welcome, Yuri. I think you're exactly what DeAndre needs.

**YURI**
Ms. C! Looking good! Is that jacket vintage? It's giving me strong "I know magic" vibes!

**PENNY**
This one's gonna be trouble, I can feel it.

**MORRISON**
The best ones always are.

CUT TO:

INT. DEANDRE'S APARTMENT - AFTER SCHOOL

DeAndre's room is a makeshift studio - laptop, cheap microphone, foam on the walls. Yuri is perched on a stack of books to reach the desk.

**YURI**
Okay, okay, play me that beat again.

DeAndre plays a complex hip-hop beat from his laptop. Yuri bobs his whole body to the rhythm.

**YURI** *(CONT'D)*
That's hot! That's Antarctica-melting hot! But why you got it buried under seventeen other tracks nobody's heard?

**DEANDRE**
'Cause it's not ready.

**YURI**
It's BEEN ready! You just scared of judgment! Watch this - you know what I did when I was scared to jump off my first iceberg?

**DEANDRE**
What?

**YURI**
I belly-flopped HARD! Hurt like crazy! But you know what? I survived! And the next time was easier!

DeAndre's GRANDMOTHER, LOUISE (70s), knocks and enters.

**LOUISE**
DeAndre, who you talking to in here?

Yuri instantly transforms into a stuffed penguin. DeAndre grabs him.

**DEANDRE**
Just... practicing my presentation, Grandma.

**LOUISE**
With a stuffed penguin?

**DEANDRE**
It's for confidence. Ms. Cornfield gave it to us.

**LOUISE**
*(skeptical)*
Mmm-hmm. Well, dinner's in an hour. And turn that music down.

She leaves. Yuri transforms back.

**YURI**
Your grandma seems cool. She make mac and cheese? I've never had mac and cheese but I heard it's legendary!

**DEANDRE**
Focus! How am I supposed to share my music when everyone expects it to be perfect?

**YURI**
Who said anything about perfect? You think I'm perfect? Look at me! I'm a penguin who can't swim straight! But I OWN IT!

He waddles around the room demonstrating.

**YURI** *(CONT'D)*
Watch - I'm gonna slide into this wall. ON PURPOSE!

He slides, hits the wall, bounces back.

**YURI** *(CONT'D)*
See? Not perfect, but ENTERTAINING! Your music doesn't need to be perfect. It needs to be YOURS. And from what I'm hearing, yours is straight fire!

**DEANDRE**
But what if people hate it?

**YURI**
Then they got bad taste! But for real though - some will hate it, some will love it. But NOBODY can feel anything about music they never hear. You're so worried about the haters, you're forgetting about the people who NEED to hear your sound.

DeAndre considers this.

**YURI** *(CONT'D)*
Plus, I got an idea. What if you performed at the Academic Challenge? Music is academic, right? It's got math and patterns and stuff!

**DEANDRE**
That's not how the challenge works—

**YURI**
But what if it COULD work that way? What if we MAKE it work that way? Think outside the iceberg, my man!

DeAndre looks at his laptop, then at Yuri, a small smile forming.

**DEANDRE**
You really think my music's good?

**YURI**
Bro, I waddled all the way from Antarctica through a magic portal for you. Well, technically Morrison brought me, but still! Would I do that for wack beats? NAH!

**DEANDRE**
*(laughing)*
You're ridiculous.

**YURI**
And you're talented! Now stop hiding it! Tomorrow, we're playing ONE track for the class. Just one. Baby steps. Or baby waddles in my case.

**DEANDRE**
I don't know...

**YURI**
Trust me! Has a penguin ever steered you wrong before?

**DEANDRE**
I've never met a penguin before.

**YURI**
Exactly! Perfect record! Now, let's work on that mix. And after that, you're explaining this "mac and cheese" situation to me in detail.

DeAndre laughs, turning back to his laptop with renewed energy. For the first time, he's excited about sharing his music instead of just making it.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 16: Scene 16

MONTAGE - FAMILIAR ARRIVALS

INT. ROOM 5B - MORNING

Morrison stands before the class, his coat open, portal swirling. Ms. Cornfield watches with a knowing smile.

**MORRISON**
Today, we complete our family!

**VIGNETTE 1 - SOPHIE AND AUGUSTIN**

A sleek gray cat with striking purple eyes struts out of the portal, nose in the air.

**AUGUSTIN** *(French accent, haughty)*
This is ze classroom? Mon Dieu, I've seen better accommodations in a barn.

He approaches Sophie's perfectly organized desk.

**AUGUSTIN** *(CONT'D)*
At least someone here has standards. You must be Sophie. I am Augustin. I once lived in a mansion on the Champs-Élysées.

**SOPHIE**
*(anxiously straightening pencils)*
A mansion? Really?

**AUGUSTIN**
Well, near a mansion. Behind it. In ze alley. But I could see it from there!

CUT TO:

INT. SOPHIE'S BEDROOM - THAT EVENING

Sophie organizes her homework into color-coded folders. Augustin lounges on her bed.

**AUGUSTIN**
You know, chérie, perfection is overrated. In Paris, we embrace ze beautiful mess.

**SOPHIE**
But if it's not perfect—

**AUGUSTIN**
Then it's real. Watch.

He deliberately knocks over a stack of books with his tail.

**SOPHIE**
Augustin!

**AUGUSTIN**
See? Ze world didn't end. Now, let's work on your homework with style, not stress.

**VIGNETTE 2 - AISHA AND CASPAR**

A chameleon emerges, immediately changing colors to match the floor.

**CASPAR** *(gentle)*
Princess Aisha, I presume?

**AISHA**
Princess? I'm not a—

Caspar turns invisible, reappearing on her desk.

**CASPAR**
Everyone is royalty in their own story, Princess. I am Caspar. I help people show their true colors.

**AISHA**
I just want to paint.

**CASPAR**
No, Princess. You want to create. There's a difference.

CUT TO:

INT. AISHA'S APARTMENT - KITCHEN TABLE - LATER

Aisha paints while Caspar shifts through rainbow colors on her shoulder.

**CASPAR**
See how I change? Not to hide, but to express. Your art is the same, Princess.

**AISHA'S MOTHER**
*(entering)*
Aisha, who are you talking to?

Caspar instantly turns invisible. Aisha holds up her painting.

**AISHA**
Just... working through my process, Mom.

Her mother leaves. Caspar reappears.

**CASPAR**
One day, Princess, you won't need to hide your light either.

**VIGNETTE 3 - CESAR AND RICK**

A small crocodile nervously emerges, looking around frantically.

**RICK** *(Michael Peña energy, anxious)*
Okay, okay, is this safe? Nobody's gonna step on me, right? I'm Rick, I'm vegan, I have anxiety, and I think I'm in the wrong place!

**CESAR**
*(laughing)*
A vegan crocodile?

**RICK**
Don't judge me, man! You know how hard it is being the only crocodile at the farmer's market? They all look at me like I'm gonna eat their chickens! I don't even eat eggs anymore!

CUT TO:

INT. SOCCER FIELD - AFTER SCHOOL

Cesar practices while Rick paces nervously on the sideline.

**RICK**
What if you miss? What if everyone laughs? What if—

**CESAR**
Rick, chill!

**RICK**
You're right, you're right. I'm projecting. My therapist says I project. Did you know crocodiles can have therapists? Well, just me actually.

**CESAR**
*(kicking the ball)*
You know what? Your nervousness actually helps.

**RICK**
It does?

**CESAR**
Yeah. If you can be brave being a vegan crocodile, I can be brave taking a penalty kick.

**RICK**
*(tearing up)*
That's the nicest thing anyone's ever said to me!

**VIGNETTE 4 - TYLER AND PEPPERONI**

A red river hog bursts out, immediately raiding Marcus's backpack.

**PEPPERONI**
Where are the snacks? Tyler! My brother! We must find snacks!

**TYLER**
*(rapidly)*
Oh man oh man you're a pig wait are you a pig you look like a pig but fancy—

**PEPPERONI**
Red river hog, my friend! Very different!

PFFFFT. A loud fart echoes.

**PEPPERONI** *(CONT'D)*
It wasn't me!

**MARCUS**
Dude, we all saw you.

**PEPPERONI**
That was... the chair.

CUT TO:

INT. TYLER'S ROOM - EVENING

Tyler does homework while Pepperoni eats chips loudly.

**TYLER'S MOM** *(O.S.)*
Tyler, are you eating in your room again?

**PEPPERONI**
*(mouth full, transforming to stuffed form)*
Tell her no!

**TYLER**
*(for once, speaking clearly)*
No, Mom! I'm doing homework!

**PEPPERONI**
*(transforming back)*
See? When you focus on protecting me instead of your anxiety, you speak perfectly!

PFFFFT.

**PEPPERONI** *(CONT'D)*
The desk made that sound.

**VIGNETTE 5 - PRIYA AND MURIEL**

A small owl flies out, ruffling her feathers.

**MURIEL** *(Mindy Kaling energy)*
Priya! Oh my god, finally! Someone who appreciates organization! Look at those notes! Are those color-coded? They ARE!

**PRIYA**
You actually like my system?

**MURIEL**
Like it? I LOVE it! We're gonna be study buddies! Midnight oil, here we come! Get it? Because I'm an owl?

CUT TO:

INT. PRIYA'S ROOM - LATE NIGHT

Both hunched over flashcards, Muriel perched beside Priya's desk lamp.

**MURIEL**
Okay, but here's the thing - you know everything already. Your problem isn't knowledge, it's confidence.

**PRIYA**
But what if I forget?

**MURIEL**
Then you'll remember something else! Your brain is like Netflix but for facts. Sometimes you gotta scroll to find what you want, but it's always there!

**VIGNETTE 6 - ELENA AND GERALDO**

A tiny tarsier with enormous eyes bounces out like a ping-pong ball.

**GERALDO** *(hyperactive)*
ELENA! ELENA! ELENA! I'M GERALDO! I'M HERE TO HELP! WHAT ARE WE DOING? CAN WE DO IT FAST?

**ELENA**
*(checking phone worriedly)*
I need to watch my little brothers and—

**GERALDO**
BROTHERS? I LOVE BROTHERS! I HAD FIFTY BROTHERS! WELL, COUSINS! SAME THING!

CUT TO:

INT. ELENA'S APARTMENT - EVENING

Elena watches her two younger brothers while doing homework. Geraldo bounces between them like a pinball.

**GERALDO**
I'LL WATCH THIS ONE! NOW THIS ONE! NOW BACK TO THIS ONE!

The boys giggle, chasing Geraldo (in stuffed form) as Elena finally focuses on her work.

**ELENA**
*(to herself)*
First break I've had in months.

**RAPID MONTAGE - OTHER FAMILIARS ARRIVING**
- LILY gets COOPER, a streetwise rat who rides on her shoulder
- MAYA meets MARY CELESTE, a playful harbor seal who slides across the floor
- JAMAL receives LEANDER, a sleek leopard who prowls with quiet confidence
- A flamingo struts elegantly on one leg
- A kangaroo bounces enthusiastically across desks
- A terrier mix with a bandana barks excitedly
- A wolf howls softly
- A peregrine falcon perches majestically
- A porcupine waddles carefully
- A chimpanzee swings from the ceiling lights
- A guinea pig squeaks adorably
- A bat flies to another student
- A koala munches eucalyptus leaves
- A sloth moves... very... very... slowly

INT. ROOM 5B - AFTERNOON

The classroom is MAYHEM. Twenty-four kids, twenty-four Familiars. Animals everywhere - on desks, hanging from lights, sliding across floors. It's a beautiful, impossible madhouse.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(beaming)*
Look at our complete family!

The door opens. JANITOR PHIL (60s, exhausted) enters with his mop bucket, takes one look at the scene - the leopard lounging on file cabinets, the owl and falcon perched on ceiling fans, the crocodile and the seal sharing the reading corner, the wolf casually grooming itself...

**JANITOR PHIL**
What in the—

He faints, mop clattering to the floor.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Everyone! PETRIFICATION! NOW!

INSTANTLY - every Familiar transforms into a stuffed animal. They fall, bounce, and land in perfect positions around the room.

Janitor Phil's eyes flutter open. He sits up, looking around at a room full of children holding stuffed animals.

**JANITOR PHIL**
I... I thought I saw...

**MARCUS**
*(holding stuffed Henrietta)*
Saw what, Mr. Phil?

**SOPHIE**
*(clutching stuffed Augustin)*
We're just having show and tell.

Janitor Phil stands shakily, looking at the innocent scene.

**JANITOR PHIL**
I need to stop skipping lunch. Blood sugar's making me see things.

He backs out slowly. Once the door closes, all the Familiars transform back.

**YURI**
That was CLOSE! My heart's racing! Do penguins have heart attacks? Can I have a heart attack?

**RICK**
Don't talk about medical emergencies! Now I'm worried about MY heart!

**HENRIETTA**
Everyone calm down. We pulled it off.

**ROBBIE**
We're going to need better coordination if we're all staying here.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Don't worry. Tomorrow, we begin training for the Academic Challenge. All of us. Together.

The camera pulls back to show the complete chaos - and complete joy - of Room 5B's new extended family.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 17: Scene 17

INT. ROOM 5B - MORNING

Ms. Cornfield stands at the board, which displays "ACADEMIC CHALLENGE - 5 DAYS" in her elegant handwriting. The students sit with their Familiars - some on desks, some on shoulders, Henrietta peeking from Marcus's satchel, Caspar visible in his natural colors on Aisha's desk.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
My brilliant minds, the Academic Challenge is this Friday. Five days to show this district what Room 5B can really do.

**SOPHIE**
*(anxiously)*
Five days? That's not enough time!

**AUGUSTIN**
*(from her lap)*
Ma chérie, we have twenty-four magical assistants. Time is relative.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Augustin is right. You have advantages Jefferson Elementary could never dream of. But remember - in public, your Familiars must remain petrified.

**CASPAR**
*(from Aisha's desk)*
Or invisible, in my case, Princess.

**AISHA**
That's actually pretty cool.

**DEANDRE**
Even during the Challenge?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Especially during the Challenge. But...
*(smiling mysteriously)*
Who says stuffed animals can't be inspirational?

**ROBBIE**
*(to Ida)*
She's got something planned.

**HENRIETTA**
*(from Marcus's bag)*
Good teachers always do.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Now, I want you all to use every moment wisely. Study at lunch, after school, help each other. You're not just classmates anymore - you're a team.

**MAYA**
But we've never even sat together at lunch before.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Then today's the perfect day to start, isn't it?

CUT TO:

INT. SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

For the first time ever, all twenty-four kids from Room 5B sit together at two pushed-together tables. Their petrified Familiars are arranged carefully - some propped against lunch trays, others tucked in backpacks with heads poking out.

**MARCUS**
*(holding stuffed Henrietta)*
Okay, so if X equals 15, then Y has to be...

**PRIYA**
Thirty. The pattern doubles every time.

**MARCUS**
*(grinning)*
See? I knew that! I just wanted to make sure YOU knew that!

Across the cafeteria, kids from other classes notice and stare.

**ROOM 5A KID**
Is that... is Room 5B actually studying?

**ANOTHER KID**
With stuffed animals?

**ROOM 5A KID**
They know they're gonna lose anyway, right?

Back at the 5B tables:

**IDA**
*(whispering to stuffed Robbie)*
They're all watching us.

**CESAR**
*(stuffed Rick in his lap)*
Let them watch. We got this.

**ELENA**
*(Geraldo in stuffed form bouncing slightly as she moves)*
Quick - Maya, what year did the Civil War end?

**MAYA**
1865. Tyler, name three states of matter.

**TYLER**
*(rapidly, Pepperoni stuffed beside his tray)*
Solid-liquid-gas-and-actually-plasma-too-but-that's-four-is-that-okay?

**LILY**
*(Cooper the stuffed rat in her pocket)*
That's perfect! DeAndre, your turn to ask.

**DEANDRE**
*(Yuri petrified under his arm)*
Alright, who can tell me the mathematical frequency of middle C?

**JAMAL**
*(quietly, Leander draped over his shoulders in plush form)*
261.63 hertz.

Everyone turns to stare at Jamal, who usually never speaks up.

**MARCUS**
Yo, Jamal! That was fire!

**JAMAL**
*(small smile)*
Leander... I mean, studying with Leander helps me remember.

At a nearby table, the WOODSIDE ACADEMIC TEAM - kids from 5A and other fifth-grade classes who usually represent the school - sit watching Room 5B with confusion.

**ACADEMIC TEAM CAPTAIN** *(from 5A)*
Why are they even bothering? Ms. Martinez always picks us for the team.

**ACADEMIC TEAMMATE**
And what's with all the toys?

**ACADEMIC TEAM CAPTAIN**
Probably some weird motivation thing. Like they're kindergarteners or something.

**ANOTHER TEAMMATE**
Doesn't matter. Even if they compete, Jefferson's gonna destroy all of us anyway.

Back at 5B's table, Sophie carefully arranges flashcards while Augustin in stuffed form "watches."

**SOPHIE**
We should make a study schedule. Fifteen minutes per subject, rotating questioners—

**AISHA**
*(seemingly talking to her shoulder where Caspar is invisible)*
Or we could make it visual! I could draw diagrams—

**PRIYA**
*(excited)*
Yes! Visual learning increases retention by 40%!

**CESAR**
And I could make up soccer plays for math problems!

**MARCUS**
That's what I've been doing! Henrietta showed me— I mean, I figured out that everything's patterns!

The cafeteria monitor, MRS. GARCIA, walks by their table, stops.

**MRS. GARCIA**
Room 5B, this is the first time I've seen you all sitting together without fighting.

**SOPHIE**
We're studying for the Academic Challenge, Mrs. Garcia.

**MRS. GARCIA**
*(skeptical)*
With stuffed animals?

**TYLER**
*(quickly)*
They're-our-mascots-for-good-luck-and-also-they-help-with-anxiety-and-Ms-Cornfield-says-they're-educational-tools!

**MRS. GARCIA**
*(shaking her head, walking away)*
Whatever works, I suppose.

Once she's gone, the kids lean in closer.

**IDA**
*(whispering)*
Do you think the Familiars can hear us when they're petrified?

**DEANDRE**
Only one way to find out.
*(to stuffed Yuri)*
If you can hear me, we're gonna crush Jefferson on Friday.

Yuri's stuffed form seems to shimmer slightly - or maybe it's just the cafeteria lights.

**MAYA**
*(excited)*
Did you see that?

**LILY**
They're still with us. Even like this.

**PRIYA**
Then we can't let them down.

**MARCUS**
Or Ms. Cornfield.

**JAMAL**
*(quietly but firmly)*
Or ourselves.

The room 5B kids return to their studying with renewed energy. Across the cafeteria, other students continue to watch in bewilderment as the "worst class" in school actually works together, their stuffed animals standing guard like a tiny, plush army.

**CESAR**
Alright, next question - who knows the capital of Montana?

**ELENA**
Helena! And the state bird?

**AISHA**
Western Meadowlark!

As they continue quizzing each other, the camera pulls back to show the whole cafeteria - Room 5B in their corner, unified for the first time, while the rest of the school watches the transformation with a mixture of confusion, skepticism, and maybe... just a little bit of worry.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 18: Scene 18

INT. ROOM 5B - AFTER SCHOOL

The afternoon sun slants through the windows. All twenty-four students remain, their Familiars active and helping. Ms. Cornfield writes practice questions on the board while various study groups work around the room.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Remember, the Challenge tests everything - math, science, history, literature, even current events.

In one corner, Marcus explains a math problem using basketball metaphors while Henrietta nods slowly from his desk.

**MARCUS**
So if the point guard passes at 15 miles per hour, and the forward is 30 feet away...

**HENRIETTA**
That's physics AND math, baby. Two for one. You're getting it.

Across the room, Robbie helps Ida with vocabulary.

**ROBBIE**
Okay, "perspicacious" - use it in a sentence.

**IDA**
The perspicacious fox noticed the churro stand from three blocks away?

**ROBBIE**
*(laughing)*
That's... actually perfect. And now I want churros again.

Near the window, Yuri slides back and forth on a desk while DeAndre works on pattern recognition.

**YURI**
See? Music is just math with soul! This beat goes 1-2-3-4, but the syncopation hits on the half-beat!

**DEANDRE**
So it's like fractions?

**YURI**
EXACTLY! You're getting it! We're gonna destroy this thing!

He slides too enthusiastically and crashes into Sophie's perfectly arranged study station.

**SOPHIE**
Yuri!

**AUGUSTIN**
*(lazily stretching)*
Leave ze penguin alone, ma chérie. Chaos is part of learning.

**SOPHIE**
But my color-coded system—

**AUGUSTIN**
Will survive. You know what won't survive? Your stress levels if you don't breathe.

Meanwhile, Caspar shifts through different colors as he helps Aisha visualize science concepts.

**CASPAR**
See, Princess? When I turn red, that's like the heat molecules moving fast. Blue - they slow down.

**AISHA**
So color equals temperature equals molecular movement?

**CASPAR**
Now you're thinking like an artist AND a scientist.

Tyler and Pepperoni work on geography, though Pepperoni keeps getting distracted.

**TYLER**
*(rapidly)*
Okay-so-the-capital-of-Oregon-is—

**PEPPERONI**
Salem! But more importantly, do they have good food there?

PFFFFT.

**PEPPERONI** *(CONT'D)*
That was the chair shifting!

**TYLER**
Sure it was. Focus! What about Idaho?

**PEPPERONI**
Boise! Famous for potatoes! Which reminds me, when's dinner?

Cesar practices with Rick, who's pacing nervously.

**RICK**
What if you forget everything? What if everyone's watching? What if—

**CESAR**
Rick, you're making ME nervous now.

**RICK**
Sorry! Sorry! It's just... I've never been part of something important before. What if I mess it up for you?

**CESAR**
You won't. We're a team, remember?

At another table, Priya and Muriel quiz each other at lightning speed.

**MURIEL**
Constitutional Convention?

**PRIYA**
1787!

**MURIEL**
First element on the periodic table?

**PRIYA**
Hydrogen!

**MURIEL**
You're a machine! A beautiful, fact-filled machine!

Elena studies while Geraldo bounces between her papers.

**GERALDO**
PHOTOSYNTHESIS! CHLOROPHYLL! SUNLIGHT BECOMES FOOD! THIS IS AMAZING!

**ELENA**
*(smiling)*
Your energy actually helps me remember better.

**GERALDO**
REALLY?! THEN I'LL BE EVEN MORE ENERGETIC!

Lily works with Cooper, who sits on her shoulder.

**COOPER**
Listen, kid, here's the word on the street - Jefferson's weak on geography. That's where we hit 'em.

**LILY**
How do you know that?

**COOPER**
Rats know things. We got networks. Trust me on this.

Jamal and Leander work quietly in the corner, Leander's presence giving Jamal confidence to speak up.

**JAMAL**
The answer is the War of 1812.

**LEANDER**
*(purring)*
Say it louder. Own your knowledge.

**JAMAL**
*(louder)*
The War of 1812!

**MARCUS**
*(from across the room)*
That's what I'm talking about, Jamal!

Maya and Mary Celeste work on science, with Mary Celeste balancing a ball on her nose.

**MARY CELESTE**
See? Balance is physics! Everything's connected!

**MAYA**
So when you balance that ball...

**MARY CELESTE**
I'm calculating trajectory, wind resistance, and center of gravity. Seals are basically physicists with whiskers!

The room buzzes with energy and learning. Ms. Cornfield moves between groups, offering encouragement.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
This is beautiful. Look at you all.

**MORRISON** *(O.S.)*
*(entering with a flourish)*
Did someone say beautiful?

Morrison enters with Penny on his shoulder.

**PENNY**
We brought snacks! Can't have a study session without brain food.

**MORRISON**
*(producing bags of fruit and granola bars from his coat)*
The universe provides! And by universe, I mean the corner store.

**YURI**
SNACKS! Did you get fish?

**PENNY**
Boy, you're a penguin in California. We got goldfish crackers, best we could do.

**YURI**
Close enough!

As the kids eagerly grab snacks, continuing to quiz each other, the camera pulls back to show the controlled chaos - twenty-four kids, twenty-four Familiars, all working toward a common goal.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(to Morrison, quietly)*
They're ready.

**MORRISON**
They're more than ready. They're united.

**HENRIETTA**
*(overhearing)*
Took long enough. But good things come to those who wait. And work. And have magical animal friends.

**ROBBIE**
*(calling out)*
Alright, everyone! Lightning round! Capitals of all fifty states! Ida starts!

**IDA**
Alabama - Montgomery!

**MARCUS**
Alaska - Juneau!

**SOPHIE**
Arizona - Phoenix!

As they continue through the states, each kid calling out with increasing confidence, their Familiars cheering them on, the late afternoon sun turns golden, filling Room 5B with warm light and hope.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 19: Scene 19

INT. ROOM 5B - DAY BEFORE CHALLENGE

The energy is different today - focused, confident. The students work in smooth coordination, passing questions between groups like a well-oiled machine. Ms. Cornfield stands at her desk, watching with quiet pride.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Tomorrow, you face Jefferson Elementary. How do you feel?

**MARCUS**
*(without hesitation)*
Ready.

**SOPHIE**
*(organized notes spread before her)*
We've covered every possible topic.

**DEANDRE**
And some impossible ones too.

The Familiars gather with their humans for final pep talks.

**ROBBIE**
*(to Ida)*
Remember - you're not the scared girl who arrived here anymore. You found your voice. Use it.

**IDA**
What if I freeze?

**ROBBIE**
Then I'll be right there, even if I'm petrified. We're connected now. You're never alone.

Across the room, Henrietta sits on Marcus's desk.

**HENRIETTA**
Two hundred years, I've seen a lot of smart people. You know what makes you special? You don't think like them. You think like YOU.

**MARCUS**
But the judges want the right answers—

**HENRIETTA**
And you'll give them. Your way. Trust your patterns, baby. They haven't failed you yet.

Yuri stands on DeAndre's desk, uncharacteristically still.

**YURI**
Yo, real talk? You're the most talented kid I know. And I knew a penguin who could juggle fish while tap dancing.

**DEANDRE**
*(laughing)*
You're making that up.

**YURI**
Maybe. But I'm not making this up - you got this. Your music brain is gonna help us win. Math is rhythm, science is harmony. It's all connected, just like you taught me.

Augustin stretches languidly next to Sophie.

**AUGUSTIN**
Ma chérie, perfection is not ze goal tomorrow.

**SOPHIE**
But—

**AUGUSTIN**
Excellence is ze goal. And excellence includes being human. If you make a mistake, c'est la vie. Move on with grace.

**SOPHIE**
*(taking a deep breath)*
With grace. I can do that.

Caspar shimmers through rainbow colors on Aisha's desk.

**CASPAR**
Princess, tomorrow you show them all your true colors. Not just the answers, but the artist who sees connections others miss.

**AISHA**
You really think I can help?

**CASPAR**
I know you can. You see the world differently. That's not a weakness - it's your superpower.

Rick paces nervously near Cesar.

**RICK**
Okay, I'm freaking out and I'm not even competing! What if—

**CESAR**
*(calmly)*
Rick, your anxiety prepared us for everything. We practiced every worst-case scenario.

**RICK**
*(stopping)*
We did, didn't we? Oh man, my neurosis actually helped!

**CESAR**
*(grinning)*
See? We're ready for anything.

Pepperoni lounges next to Tyler's lunch.

**PEPPERONI**
Tomorrow, you speak clearly, my friend. No rushing.

**TYLER**
But-what-if-I-get-nervous-and-talk-too-fast?

**PEPPERONI**
Then think of me. Slow and steady. Like how I eat - one delicious bite at a time.

PFFFFT.

**PEPPERONI** *(CONT'D)*
The desk creaked!

**TYLER**
*(laughing)*
Thanks, Pepperoni.

Muriel perches next to Priya.

**MURIEL**
Girl, you could answer these questions in your sleep. I know because you literally did last night. You were sleep-quizzing!

**PRIYA**
I was?

**MURIEL**
"The mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell" at 2 AM. Your brain doesn't quit!

Geraldo bounces around Elena.

**GERALDO**
TOMORROW! BIG DAY! YOU READY? I'M READY! WE'RE ALL READY!

**ELENA**
Your energy doesn't make me tired anymore. It actually helps me focus.

**GERALDO**
REALLY?! THEN I'LL BE EXTRA BOUNCY TOMORROW! INVISIBLE BOUNCING!

Cooper sits on Lily's shoulder.

**COOPER**
Kid, you got nerves of steel under that quiet exterior. Tomorrow, you let 'em see it.

**LILY**
I'm not brave like Marcus or confident like Sophie—

**COOPER**
You're brave like Lily. That's all you need to be.

Leander nuzzles against Jamal.

**LEANDER**
You've found your voice these past days. Tomorrow, use it.

**JAMAL**
*(softly but firmly)*
I will. For all of us.

Mary Celeste balances on her tail near Maya.

**MARY CELESTE**
Remember - every question is just a different kind of balance. Find the center, and you'll find the answer.

**MAYA**
We're really going to compete against Jefferson tomorrow.

**MARY CELESTE**
No. You're going to WIN.

Ms. Cornfield claps her hands gently.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Circle up, everyone. Familiars too.

They form a large circle, humans and Familiars alternating.

**MS. CORNFIELD** *(CONT'D)*
Five days ago, you were scattered individuals. Now look at you.

**MORRISON**
*(entering dramatically)*
A family!

**PENNY**
*(on his shoulder)*
Must you always make an entrance?

**MORRISON**
It's called style, Penny. Now then, young scholars, remember - tomorrow your Familiars must remain petrified.

**CASPAR**
Or invisible!

**MORRISON**
Or invisible, yes. But their spirits will be with you. The bonds you've formed cannot be broken by something as trivial as stillness.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
We leave for Jefferson at 8 AM sharp. Get rest tonight. You've earned it.

**IDA**
Ms. Cornfield? What if we lose?

Ms. Cornfield smiles, that mysterious smile they've come to know.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Then you lose together. But something tells me that won't be necessary.

**HENRIETTA**
In my two centuries, I've learned one thing - the underdog's bite is always stronger than their bark.

**YURI**
Did she just make a dog metaphor? There's no dogs here!

**THE TERRIER MIX FAMILIAR**
*(offended)*
Excuse me?!

**YURI**
Oh right. Sorry, forgot about you!

Everyone laughs. The tension breaks.

**MARCUS**
Room 5B on three?

**ALL**
One... two... three... ROOM 5B!

The Familiars add their voices - roars, squeaks, howls, chirps, and in Pepperoni's case, another fart ("It was the floor!").

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(quietly to Morrison)*
They're going to shock everyone tomorrow.

**MORRISON**
That's the point, isn't it? Magic isn't just about spells and portals. Sometimes it's about believing in yourself.

**PENNY**
That was actually profound.

**MORRISON**
I have my moments.

As the students gather their things, still quizzing each other, their Familiars offering last-minute encouragement, the camera pulls back to show Room 5B - no longer the worst class in school, but a united force ready to face whatever tomorrow brings.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 20: Scene 20

INT. IDA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT

Ida sits at her desk, flashcards spread before her. Robbie curls beside her lamp, his red fur glowing in the warm light. The apartment is quiet - Rosa already asleep after her long shift.

**IDA**
*(flipping through cards)*
What if I forget everything? What if I freeze when everyone's watching?

**ROBBIE**
You won't.

**IDA**
How do you know?

**ROBBIE**
Because you're not the same girl who made that wish on a shooting star.

**IDA**
I'm still scared.

**ROBBIE**
Of course you are. Courage isn't the absence of fear, Ida. It's acting despite it.

Ida puts down the flashcards, rubbing her tired eyes.

**IDA**
What if we lose? Everyone's counting on us - on me.

Robbie stands, stretching, then pads over to nudge something on her desk with his nose.

**ROBBIE**
Look.

Ida follows his gaze. There on her desk, next to her worn notebook, are photos she's collected over the past week - pictures taken with Marcus's phone, printed at the library:

- The whole class at lunch, stuffed animals visible, everyone laughing at something Yuri did
- Sophie and Ida studying together, Augustin lounging between them
- Marcus explaining his "basketball math" while others watch, fascinated
- DeAndre sharing his music, everyone gathered around his laptop
- A group selfie after their first successful practice session, Ms. Cornfield smiling in the background

**ROBBIE** *(CONT'D)*
You've already won, Ida.

**IDA**
What do you mean?

**ROBBIE**
You wished for one friend. Look what you got instead.

Ida picks up the group photo, tracing the faces with her finger.

**IDA**
A whole class of them.

**ROBBIE**
A family. You found where you belong. That's the real magic - not me, not the other Familiars. The magic is what happened when twenty-four lonely kids realized they weren't alone anymore.

**IDA**
*(smiling slightly)*
When did you become so wise?

**ROBBIE**
I'm a fox. We're naturally philosophical. Also, Henrietta's been rubbing off on me.

Ida laughs softly, then looks serious again.

**IDA**
But Jefferson has won five years straight. They have better resources, better—

**ROBBIE**
They don't have what Room 5B has.

**IDA**
Magic?

**ROBBIE**
Each other. You've all learned to see your differences as strengths. Marcus thinks in patterns, you think in stories, DeAndre thinks in music, Aisha thinks in colors. Jefferson might have the best students, but you have twenty-four different ways of seeing every problem.

Ida sets down the photo and picks up her notebook - the same one where the magical message first appeared.

**IDA**
This all started with this notebook.

**ROBBIE**
No. It started with a wish. And the courage to believe it might come true.

There's a soft knock at the door. Rosa peeks in.

**ROSA**
Mi'ja, you should be sleeping. Big day tomorrow, ¿no?

**IDA**
Just a few more minutes, Mamá.

Rosa notices Robbie, who's perfectly still but clearly positioned as if alive.

**ROSA**
That fox... sometimes I swear it looks real.

**ROBBIE**
*(frozen, but somehow his voice whispers to Ida)*
That's because I am.

**ROSA**
What was that?

**IDA**
Nothing, Mamá. Just... talking to myself.

**ROSA**
*(smiling)*
Bueno. But not too late. I'm proud of you, mi estrellita. Win or lose tomorrow, you've already made me proud.

She closes the door. Robbie relaxes.

**ROBBIE**
Your mom knows something's different.

**IDA**
She knows I'm different. Happier.

**ROBBIE**
That's all that matters.

Ida yawns, finally feeling the weight of the week.

**IDA**
Will you stay up with me? Just a little longer?

**ROBBIE**
All night if you need me to. But you should sleep. Tomorrow, Room 5B shows the world what we're made of.

**IDA**
What if—

**ROBBIE**
No more what-ifs. You've prepared. You have your friends. You have me. And most importantly, you have yourself. That girl who writes stories in her notebook? She's going to help win this thing.

Ida closes her flashcards, picks up Robbie, and moves to her bed. She sets him on the pillow beside her.

**IDA**
Robbie?

**ROBBIE**
Yes?

**IDA**
Thank you. For everything.

**ROBBIE**
Thank you for wishing on that star. Best thing that ever happened to me was being your Familiar.

**IDA**
*(sleepily)*
Best thing that happened to me too.

As Ida drifts off to sleep, Robbie keeps watch. Through the window, stars twinkle in the clear night sky. Somewhere among them, perhaps, is the same shooting star that started it all.

**ROBBIE**
*(whispering)*
Tomorrow, little storyteller. Tomorrow we show them magic is real.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 21: Scene 21

EXT. WOODSIDE ELEMENTARY - MORNING

The Room 5B kids stand with their petrified Familiars (except Caspar, who's invisible), waiting by an ancient school bus. The bus makes a grinding noise and smoke pours from the hood.

**BUS DRIVER**
That's it. She's dead.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
*(on his phone, frantic)*
The district says they don't have another bus available for two hours!

**MS. CORNFIELD**
The Challenge starts in forty-five minutes.

Just then, the Omnibus rounds the corner, Morrison at the wheel, looking magnificent in the morning sun.

**MORRISON**
*(calling out the window)*
Did someone need a ride?

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Mr. Morrison, that bus can't possibly fit—

**MORRISON**
Oh, you'd be surprised.

INT. THE OMNIBUS - CONTINUOUS

The kids climb aboard and stop in amazement. The inside is ENORMOUS - rows and rows of plush velvet seats stretching back impossibly far, like a magical theater.

**MARCUS**
Yo, this is like that wizard tent thing!

**SOPHIE**
It's bigger on the inside!

**PENNY**
*(from Morrison's shoulder)*
Spatial expansion charm. Morrison's one good spell.

**MORRISON**
One good spell? I'll have you know—

**PENNY**
Drive, Drama King. We got kids to deliver.

The kids spread out, each finding their own space in the vast interior. Their Familiars remain still, but somehow seem more alert.

EXT. JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY - MORNING

The Omnibus pulls up to a gleaming school - fresh paint, manicured lawns, new playground equipment, solar panels on the roof. A stark contrast to Woodside.

**TYLER**
*(rapidly)*
Look-at-this-place-it's-like-a-private-school-but-it's-not!

**MAYA**
They have a greenhouse. An actual greenhouse.

The Room 5B kids exit, clutching their Familiars. Streams of Jefferson students pass by - predominantly white, wearing designer backpacks, talking about ski trips and summer camps.

A JEFFERSON STUDENT eyes their stuffed animals.

**JEFFERSON STUDENT**
Seriously? Teddy bears?

**DEANDRE**
*(defensive)*
They're good luck charms.

**JEFFERSON STUDENT**
You're gonna need more than luck.

INT. JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY - LATER

A real library - thousands of books, computers that work, comfortable reading areas. Four teams are assembled at separate tables: Room 5B, Jefferson Elementary, and two other schools.

The MODERATOR, an older woman with glasses, stands at a podium.

**MODERATOR**
Welcome to the District Academic Challenge. You'll have two hours to complete the written examination. There are sections on mathematics, science, history, literature, and current events. No talking, no phones, and...
*(eyeing Room 5B's stuffed animals)*
...comfort objects are permitted.

Test booklets are distributed. The Room 5B kids arrange their petrified Familiars carefully on their tables. Across from them, the Jefferson team smirks confidently.

**JEFFERSON STUDENT**
*(whispering)*
Teddy bears won't help you now.

**MODERATOR**
Begin.

The room fills with the sound of pencils on paper. Ida reads the first question, her hand resting on Robbie's still form. She closes her eyes briefly, remembering their study sessions, then writes.

Marcus stares at a complex math problem. He visualizes it as players on a court, mapping their movements. His pencil moves confidently.

DeAndre encounters a question about sound waves. He taps his finger silently, finding the rhythm, connecting it to his music.

Sophie organizes her approach, tackling sections in the precise order she'd planned. Augustin's stuffed form seems to watch approvingly.

Meanwhile, Penny sits on Morrison's shoulder in the observation area. Something shiny catches her eye - the CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY in a display case. Her magpie instincts kick in.

**PENNY**
*(to herself)*
No. No. I'm evolved. I'm better than this.

But the trophy GLEAMS.

**PENNY** *(CONT'D)*
Just a quick look...

She flies over while Morrison is distracted, and before she can stop herself, grabs a shiny MEDAL from the display, tucking it under her wing.

Back at the tables, Jamal carefully fills in answers, more confident than he's ever been. Elena manages her time well, Geraldo's energy somehow still with her even in his petrified state.

Time passes. Some Jefferson students finish early, looking smug. Room 5B keeps working until the very end.

**MODERATOR**
Time. Pencils down.

The tests are collected. The Jefferson team high-fives each other.

**JEFFERSON CAPTAIN**
Easy. We've got this locked up.

**MARCUS**
*(quietly to his team)*
We did our best.

**IDA**
When will we know?

**MODERATOR**
Results will be announced Monday at your respective schools. Good luck to all teams.

As they file out, Morrison notices Penny looking guilty but doesn't know why.

**MORRISON**
You alright, Penny?

**PENNY**
*(hiding the medal)*
Perfect! Great! Let's go celebrate!

EXT. SECLUDED BEACH - LATE AFTERNOON

Hours after the Challenge. The sun is still bright but starting its descent toward the horizon. Several kids from Room 5B have gathered with their Familiars - no adults, no bus, just them and the freedom to be themselves.

**IDA**
We finished it! We actually took the test!

She runs into the shallow waves, Robbie leaping through the water beside her.

**ROBBIE**
You were amazing! Every answer, I could feel your confidence growing!

Marcus follows, Henrietta riding on his shoulder.

**HENRIETTA**
Win or lose, you showed up. You competed. That's what matters.

**MARCUS**
*(to the ocean)*
ROOM 5B SHOWED UP!

DeAndre and Yuri slide into the water, Yuri immediately belly-sliding on the wet sand.

**YURI**
This is just like Antarctica but WARM! I love California!

Sophie stands at the water's edge. Augustin sits far back on the dry sand, eyeing the waves with deep suspicion.

**AUGUSTIN**
Non, non, non. Cats and water, we do not mix. This is against nature!

**SOPHIE**
Come on, Augustin! Everyone else is doing it!

**AUGUSTIN**
If everyone else jumped off ze Eiffel Tower, would you expect me to follow? I am French! We resist peer pressure!

Yuri slides by, sending a wave of water that splashes Augustin completely.

**AUGUSTIN** *(CONT'D)*
*(dripping, indignant)*
PENGUIN! You have declared war!

**YURI**
My bad! That was an accident! I swear!

Augustin looks at his already-soaked fur, then at Sophie laughing in the waves.

**AUGUSTIN**
*(sighing dramatically)*
Well, I am already wet. Ze damage is done. Allons-y!

He walks into the water with exaggerated dignity, then starts actually enjoying it.

**AUGUSTIN** *(CONT'D)*
This is... surprisingly pleasant. Do not tell anyone I said that.

Sophie laughs, kicking water at him playfully.

In the water, Cesar kicks a soccer ball to Tyler, who actually catches it. Priya and Muriel search for shells. Elena lets Geraldo bounce in the shallow waves. Even quiet Jamal is there, Leander prowling through the foam.

**IDA**
*(to everyone)*
We're not the worst class anymore!

**MARCUS**
We never were! We just needed to prove it to ourselves!

**CESAR**
Whatever happens Monday, we did something no one thought we could.

**RICK**
*(nervously)*
But what if we failed? What if everyone laughs at us? What if—

**CESAR**
Rick, we're playing in the ocean with talking animals. We already won at life.

**RICK**
*(considering)*
That's... actually a good point.

As the afternoon sun casts long shadows on the beach, the kids of Room 5B play in the waves - not knowing if they won or lost, but knowing they faced their fears together.

**DEANDRE**
We should get back before our parents worry.

**SOPHIE**
Five more minutes?

**MARCUS**
Make it ten!

They continue playing, their laughter mixing with the sound of waves.

**ROBBIE**
*(to Ida)*
Nervous about Monday?

**IDA**
*(smiling)*
No. Whatever happens, we did it together. That's what matters.

**HENRIETTA**
*(from Marcus's shoulder)*
Two hundred years of wisdom says this moment, right here, is the real prize.

**YURI**
Deep thoughts from the tortoise! Now who wants to see me do a backflip?!

He attempts one, fails spectacularly, creating a huge splash that gets everyone.

**AUGUSTIN**
*(completely drenched now)*
I am going to smell like wet cat for days. Sophie, this is your fault.

**SOPHIE**
*(laughing)*
You love it!

**AUGUSTIN**
*(quietly, smiling)*
Perhaps.

The camera pulls back to show them all - kids and Familiars alike, playing in the bright afternoon light, celebrating not a test score but their transformation from strangers to family.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 22: Scene 22

INT. IDA'S APARTMENT - MONDAY AFTERNOON

Ida bursts through the door, carrying petrified Robbie under her arm. Rosa is in the kitchen.

**IDA**
¡Mamá! ¡Mamá! There's a letter from the district!

She sets Robbie on the couch and tears open the envelope with shaking hands.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
*(reading)*
"Dear Woodside Elementary Room 5B... We are pleased to inform you that your class achieved the highest score in this year's District Academic Challenge..."

She grabs Robbie, spinning him around.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
*(to stuffed Robbie)*
WE WON! WE WON!

Rosa rushes over, reading over her shoulder.

**ROSA**
¡Dios mío! Mi'ja, you beat Jefferson Elementary?

**IDA**
We ALL did! Room 5B won!

**ROSA**
*(looking at Ida talking to her stuffed fox)*
You really love that fox, don't you?

**IDA**
*(hugging Robbie)*
He's... he's special, Mamá.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5B - TUESDAY MORNING

The classroom erupts in celebration. All twenty-four kids are hugging, their Familiars dancing and making noise. Ms. Cornfield beams with pride.

**MARCUS**
Yo, we really did it! The worst class in school just became the BEST!

**HENRIETTA**
I told you - underdogs bite hardest.

**YURI**
WE'RE CHAMPIONS! Does this mean we get a trophy? Please tell me there's a trophy!

The door opens. Principal Williams enters, but his face is grim. Behind him is the JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL, a stern white man in an expensive suit. The Familiars, of course, petrify, except for Caspar who turns invisible.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Children, Ms. Cornfield... we have a situation.

The celebration stops.

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
One of your students stole from our trophy case during the Challenge. A commemorative medal from our 2019 championship.

**SOPHIE**
What? We didn't steal anything!

**MARCUS**
We were taking a test the whole time!

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
The theft occurred during the examination period. Security footage shows it disappeared while Woodside was in the building. I'm prepared to have your victory nullified unless the medal is returned immediately.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
This is outrageous. My students would never—

Morrison enters, having overheard from the hallway. Penny is on his shoulder, but she looks away, unable to meet anyone's eyes.

**MORRISON**
Actually... I believe I know what happened. But we need time to resolve this.

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
Return the medal soon, or I'm filing a formal complaint with the district. Your victory will be overturned.

He exits. Principal Williams follows, looking defeated.

The students stare at Morrison and Penny.

**IDA**
Mr. Morrison, what's going on?

**MORRISON**
*(forcing a smile)*
Don't worry, children. This will be resolved. Continue celebrating your victory. You earned it.

He exits quickly, Penny still on his shoulder. The students exchange worried looks.

CUT TO:

INT. THE OMNIBUS - EVENING

Morrison sits alone in the driver's seat. Penny perches on the dashboard. The setting sun casts long shadows through the windows.

**MORRISON**
How could you, Penny? How could you?

**PENNY**
*(defensively)*
I didn't mean to! It was shiny and I just... my instincts took over!

**MORRISON**
You're supposed to be better than your instincts! These children worked so hard! They earned this victory!

**PENNY**
I'm a MAGPIE! It's what we DO! You knew that when you bonded with me!

**MORRISON**
You're supposed to be better than your nature! That's the whole point of being a Familiar!

**PENNY**
Oh, like you're better than YOUR nature? Mr. Drama, Mr. Everything's-a-Performance? You can't walk into a room without making it a stage! At least I'm honest about what I am!

**MORRISON**
*(hurt)*
That's different—

**PENNY**
Is it? You chose me knowing I was a magpie. You can't be angry when I act like one!

**MORRISON**
You may have cost them EVERYTHING!

**PENNY**
*(hurt and angry)*
Fine! If I'm such a disappointment, if I'm just a common thief to you, I'll fix this myself!

**MORRISON**
Penny, that's not what I—

**PENNY**
No! I heard you loud and clear. I'll get the medal back. My way.

She flies out through an open window.

**MORRISON**
Penny, wait! I didn't mean— PENNY!

But she's gone into the darkening sky.

CUT TO:

EXT. CITY STREETS - NIGHT

Penny flies through the darkness, the stolen medal clutched in her talons. She lands on a streetlight, looking around desperately.

**PENNY**
*(to herself)*
I need help. Someone who understands. Someone who won't judge.

She takes off again, flying with purpose now, heading toward a destination only she knows. The city lights twinkle below as she disappears into the night, seeking aid from a mysterious source.

Morrison, far below in the Omnibus, watches her disappear, his theatrical bravado completely gone.

**MORRISON**
*(quietly)*
What have I done?

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 23: Scene 23

INT. IDA'S BEDROOM - LATE NIGHT

Ida tosses and turns in her sleep, clearly having anxious dreams. Robbie lies curled beside her pillow, alert and watching over her.

TAP. TAP. TAP.

At the window, Penny pecks against the glass. Robbie's ears perk up. He carefully extracts himself from the bed, padding to the window.

**ROBBIE**
*(whispering through the glass)*
Penny? What are you doing here?

**PENNY**
*(muffled)*
I need your help. All of you. Can you get out?

Robbie glances back at Ida, who stirs but doesn't wake. He manages to push the window open with his nose.

**ROBBIE**
This better be important.

**PENNY**
It's about the medal. I need to fix this. Come on.

Robbie hesitates, then jumps onto the windowsill. Just as he leaps down to the fire escape, Ida's eyes flutter open.

**IDA**
*(groggy)*
Robbie?

She sits up, looking around the empty room. Through the window, she catches a glimpse of Penny leading Robbie across the street into the shadows.

**IDA** *(CONT'D)*
*(worried)*
Where are you going?

CUT TO:

EXT. ABANDONED LOT - NIGHT

One by one, Familiars emerge from the darkness. Henrietta arrives slowest, naturally. Augustin slinks in looking annoyed. Yuri slides on his belly despite the lack of ice. Caspar materializes from invisibility. Soon all twenty-four Room 5B Familiars are gathered in a circle.

**AUGUSTIN**
This better be important. I was having a lovely dream about tuna.

**PENNY**
*(standing in the center, holding the medal)*
I... I stole this. From Jefferson. During the Challenge.

Gasps and murmurs from the group.

**HENRIETTA**
Child, what were you thinking?

**PENNY**
I wasn't! That's the problem! It was shiny and my instincts just... took over. Now Room 5B might lose their victory because of me.

**YURI**
Yo, that's NOT cool! Our kids worked hard for that win!

**PENNY**
I know! That's why I need your help. Morrison... Morrison and I had a fight. He's right to be angry. But I can't face him or the kids until I fix this.

**ROBBIE**
What do you need us to do?

**PENNY**
Return it. Tonight. To Jefferson. Put it back exactly where it belongs so tomorrow morning they'll find it and Room 5B keeps their victory.

**RICK**
*(nervously)*
Breaking into a school? That's illegal! What if we get caught? What if—

**LEANDER**
*(calmly)*
Rick, our kids need us.

**RICK**
But what if—

**HENRIETTA**
Remember what you taught Cesar, crocodile. Sometimes being nervous means you're doing something important.

**MARY CELESTE**
I'm in. Those children earned their win.

**LEANDER**
*(quietly)*
We all are.

One by one, the Familiars nod agreement.

**PENNY**
*(emotional)*
Thank you. I... I don't deserve this.

**HENRIETTA**
Maybe not. But this isn't about you, magpie. It's about them.

Penny nods, drops the medal gently at Robbie's feet.

**PENNY**
The trophy case is in the main hallway, just past the library. There's a window in the boys' bathroom that doesn't lock properly - I noticed during the Challenge.

**ROBBIE**
You're not coming with us?

**PENNY**
I need to make things right with Morrison. But you all... you can save Room 5B.

She flies off into the night. The Familiars look at each other.

**AUGUSTIN**
Well, mes amis, who's ready for a heist?

CUT TO:

EXT. JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY - NIGHT

The Familiars creep through the shadows. The school looms dark and imposing.

**YURI**
*(whispering)*
This is like Mission Impossible but with animals!

**HENRIETTA**
Quiet, penguin.

INT. JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY BATHROOM - CONTINUOUS

Cooper the rat squeezes through the crack under the window, then pushes it open from inside. One by one, the Familiars climb, slide, or fly in. Caspar simply turns invisible and walks through the door.

**COOPER**
See? Streets smarts come in handy.

INT. JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

They move in formation down the pristine hallway. Everything here is newer, cleaner than Woodside. Trophy cases line the walls, filled with awards.

**MURIEL**
*(flying overhead)*
There! The empty spot in that case!

Leander, being tallest, carries the medal in his mouth. They gather around the trophy case.

**AUGUSTIN**
It's locked.

**GERALDO**
*(bouncing excitedly)*
I can pick it! I learned from watching YouTube!

**EVERYONE**
SHHH!

Geraldo uses his tiny fingers to work the lock. It clicks open.

**ROBBIE**
Careful...

Leander gently places the medal back in its spot. They all breathe a sigh of relief.

Then - FOOTSTEPS. Heavy, measured footsteps echoing down the hallway.

**RICK**
*(panicking)*
Someone's coming!

**HENRIETTA**
Everyone freeze!

The footsteps get closer. A flashlight beam sweeps around the corner.

**YURI**
*(whispering)*
We're gonna get caught! This is it! Tell my story!

The footsteps stop just around the corner. The Familiars hold their breath - those that breathe. The flashlight beam inches closer to where they're huddled...

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 24: Scene 24

INT. JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

The flashlight beam rounds the corner, revealing... IDA, holding her phone's flashlight. Behind her, all twenty-three other Room 5B kids emerge from the shadows.

**ROBBIE**
Ida?!

**IDA**
Did you really think I'd let you go alone?

**MARCUS**
*(to Henrietta)*
Girl, you move SLOW. We caught up in like five minutes.

**HENRIETTA**
I was being stealthy.

**SOPHIE**
*(to Augustin)*
You were all going to break into Jefferson without us?

**AUGUSTIN**
We were trying to protect you, ma chérie.

**YURI**
How did you even know where we went?

**DEANDRE**
Ida called everyone. We all noticed our Familiars were gone.

**TYLER**
*(rapidly)*
And-then-we-followed-you-and-saw-you-coming-here-and-we-couldn't-let-you-do-this-alone!

Suddenly, a REAL flashlight beam appears at the far end of the hallway.

**SECURITY GUARD** *(O.S.)*
Who's there?

**RICK**
*(panicking)*
I KNEW IT! WE'RE GOING TO JAIL!

**CESAR**
Run!

In the chaos of everyone scrambling, Leander accidentally knocks the trophy case with his tail. The medal falls to the floor with a CLANG.

**IDA**
The medal!

**ROBBIE**
Leave it! We need to go!

**MARCUS**
But the whole point was—

**SECURITY GUARD** *(O.S.)*
*(closer now)*
I'm calling the police!

**HENRIETTA**
*(from Marcus's arms)*
MOVE, children!

They burst through the exit doors, Familiars and kids running together. Yuri slides on his belly carrying DeAndre. Caspar turns invisible but Aisha still knows where he is. Pepperoni surprisingly keeps pace despite his short legs.

EXT. JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY - NIGHT

They spill onto the lawn, some kids carrying their Familiars, others running alongside them.

**MAYA**
Which way?

**LILY**
*(Cooper on her shoulder)*
We're so dead! Our parents are going to—

A familiar horn HONKS. The Omnibus pulls up, door swinging open. Morrison at the wheel, Penny on his shoulder.

**MORRISON**
All aboard! Quickly!

They pile in, a chaos of kids and animals. Once everyone's inside, Morrison drives off just as security guards emerge from the building.

INT. THE OMNIBUS - CONTINUOUS

Everyone collapses into seats, breathing hard. The interior seems even bigger tonight, easily accommodating all of them.

**IDA**
*(to Penny)*
You came back.

**PENNY**
I never really left. I was watching from a distance. When I saw you all following your Familiars, I got Morrison.

**MORRISON**
*(while driving)*
You children could have been arrested!

**MARCUS**
We couldn't let them do it alone.

**SOPHIE**
They're our Familiars. We're a team.

**MORRISON**
*(softer)*
I know. I'm proud of you. All of you.

**DEANDRE**
But we failed. The medal fell. Security definitely saw it.

**PENNY**
Actually... that might be perfect.

**ROBBIE**
What do you mean?

**PENNY**
They'll find the medal on the floor in the morning. They'll know someone tried to return it. The important thing is it's back.

**HENRIETTA**
Sometimes the attempt matters more than perfect execution.

**YURI**
Did we just accidentally solve everything by messing up?

**AUGUSTIN**
It appears so. How wonderfully ironic.

Morrison drives through the quiet streets, stopping at each child's home. As they exit one by one with their Familiars, each pauses to pat Penny gently.

**JAMAL**
*(quietly to Penny)*
Thanks for trying to fix it.

**PENNY**
*(emotional)*
Thank you for not giving up on me.

When they reach Ida's apartment, she's the last one left.

**IDA**
Mr. Morrison? Will Room 5B still get to keep our victory?

**MORRISON**
I don't know. But whatever happens, tonight you all proved something more important than any test score.

**IDA**
What?

**MORRISON**
That magic isn't just about spells and portals. It's about showing up for each other.

**PENNY**
Even when someone messes up.

**MORRISON**
*(looking at Penny)*
Especially then.

Ida exits with Robbie. As the Omnibus drives away, she waves from her window.

INT. IDA'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS

Ida climbs back into bed, Robbie curling up beside her.

**IDA**
That was insane.

**ROBBIE**
That was family.

**IDA**
Same thing?

**ROBBIE**
*(yawning)*
Exactly the same thing.

Through the window, the first hints of dawn are appearing. In a few hours, Jefferson Elementary will open, and a security guard will find a medal on the floor by the trophy case, obviously dropped by someone trying to return it in the night.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 25: Scene 25

INT. PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS' OFFICE - NEXT MORNING

Principal Williams sits behind his desk. Ms. Cornfield stands beside him. The Jefferson Principal sits across from them, holding the returned medal.

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
Security found this on our floor this morning. Someone clearly tried to return it.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Then the matter is resolved.

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
Not quite. There was still a theft. And an attempted break-in last night. Security footage shows multiple figures fleeing the scene.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
But the medal was returned—

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
I'll let this matter drop entirely, no questions asked, under one condition.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
Which is?

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
Room 5B retakes the Academic Challenge. Today. Same test, supervised conditions. If they achieve the same score, they keep their victory. If not...

**MS. CORNFIELD**
That's hardly fair. They already proved themselves.

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
It's more than fair. I could press charges. I could have your victory invalidated immediately. This is a compromise.

Principal Williams and Ms. Cornfield exchange glances.

**PRINCIPAL WILLIAMS**
We accept.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 5B - LATER

Ms. Cornfield addresses the class. The kids sit with their Familiars, looking worried.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
I know this isn't fair. You already won. But sometimes life asks us to prove ourselves twice.

**MARCUS**
It's cool, Ms. C. We did it once, we can do it again.

**HENRIETTA**
*(from his satchel)*
That's my boy.

**IDA**
When?

**MS. CORNFIELD**
In one hour. At Jefferson.

**SOPHIE**
*(anxiously)*
One hour? But we haven't studied! We haven't prepared!

**AUGUSTIN**
Ma chérie, you've been preparing for weeks. You know this.

**ROBBIE**
*(to all the Familiars)*
We'll be with you. Even if we're petrified.

**CASPAR**
I'll be invisible, Princess. Watching over you.

**YURI**
We got this! Round two! REMATCH!

CUT TO:

INT. JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY - AFTERNOON

The Room 5B kids file in, carrying their petrified Familiars (except Aisha, whose shoulder appears empty but Caspar is there, invisible and silent).

The Jefferson Principal watches from the corner, arms crossed. Other Jefferson students have gathered to watch through the library windows.

The same MODERATOR from before stands at the podium.

**MODERATOR**
You'll have two hours. Same test as before. Begin.

The kids arrange their Familiars carefully. Marcus places Henrietta where he can see her. Ida touches Robbie's plush form once before picking up her pencil.

The room falls silent except for the sound of writing.

MONTAGE - THE RETAKE

- Ida encounters a question about Mongolia's capital. She remembers instantly: Ulaanbaatar.

- Marcus visualizes the same math problems as basketball plays, moving even faster this time.

- DeAndre taps out rhythms silently, the musical frequencies clear in his mind.

- Sophie organizes her approach, more confident than before.

- Priya races through questions, Muriel's stuffed form seeming to watch approvingly.

- Tyler takes deep breaths, writing clearly, Pepperoni's still form calming him.

- Jamal fills in answers with quiet confidence, Leander draped over his shoulders.

- Even though Caspar is invisible, Aisha seems to draw strength from knowing he's there.

The Jefferson students watching through the windows start to murmur. Room 5B is working with incredible focus, like a well-oiled machine.

**MODERATOR**
Time. Pencils down.

The tests are collected. The Jefferson Principal approaches the Moderator, whispers something. She nods and begins grading immediately, right there.

The Room 5B kids wait, hands on their petrified Familiars. Even invisible Caspar stays perfectly quiet.

Finally, the Moderator looks up.

**MODERATOR** *(CONT'D)*
The scores have been tabulated.

Everyone holds their breath.

**MODERATOR** *(CONT'D)*
Room 5B has achieved... the exact same score as their previous attempt. Actually, two points higher.

The room erupts. The kids hug each other, clutching their stuffed Familiars.

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
*(stunned)*
That's... that's impossible. The same test, under pressure, no additional study time...

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(entering, having been waiting outside)*
It's not impossible when you truly know the material. When you've genuinely learned, not just memorized.

**MARCUS**
*(to the Jefferson Principal)*
We're Room 5B. We don't give up.

**DEANDRE**
And we don't cheat. We earned this. Twice.

The Jefferson Principal looks at the kids, then at their stuffed animals, then at the scores.

**JEFFERSON PRINCIPAL**
*(sighing)*
The victory stands. The matter of the medal is closed.

He exits. The Jefferson students at the windows disperse, talking among themselves about what they just witnessed.

**IDA**
*(whispering to stuffed Robbie)*
We did it. Again.

**SOPHIE**
*(to Augustin's still form)*
Twice as nice, right?

Ms. Cornfield gathers them all.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
I've never been prouder. You just proved that your victory wasn't luck. It was earned through hard work and determination.

**TYLER**
And magical animal friends!

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(smiling)*
That too.

As they exit Jefferson Elementary for the second time, heads held high, the camera catches Caspar briefly materializing to whisper to Aisha.

**CASPAR**
*(barely audible)*
Told you, Princess. True colors always shine through.

He goes invisible again as they walk into the afternoon sun, victorious once more.

FADE OUT.

END OF SCENE

Chapter 26: Scene 26

INT. WOODSIDE ELEMENTARY AUDITORIUM - DAY

The auditorium is packed with parents, students, and teachers. A banner reads "CELEBRATING OUR ACADEMIC CHAMPIONS - ROOM 5B."

Ms. Cornfield stands at the podium. Behind her on stage, all twenty-four Room 5B students sit in chairs, dressed in their best clothes, trying to sit still.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
When I first walked into Room 5B, I met twenty-four individuals. Each brilliant in their own way, but convinced they were failures. The "worst class in school," they'd been told.

In the audience, Rosa dabs her eyes. Patricia Carter nods approvingly. Other parents lean forward.

**MS. CORNFIELD** *(CONT'D)*
They faced a system that had given up on them. Broken supplies, limited resources, teachers who left. But these students had something more powerful than new computers or perfect facilities.

She turns to look at her students.

**MS. CORNFIELD** *(CONT'D)*
They had perseverance. When they were asked to compete against schools with every advantage, they said yes. When they were forced to prove themselves not once but twice, they didn't complain. They simply did it again.

Marcus grins. Sophie sits straighter. Ida clutches her notebook.

**MS. CORNFIELD** *(CONT'D)*
They discovered that there are many ways to be intelligent. That patterns can be basketball plays. That music can be mathematics. That art can be science. That every one of them had gifts the world needed to see.

She pauses, emotion in her voice.

**MS. CORNFIELD** *(CONT'D)*
But most importantly, they learned that they are not alone. That together, they are unstoppable. Room 5B didn't just win an Academic Challenge. They proved that when you believe in yourself and support each other, there is no challenge you cannot overcome.

Unable to contain themselves anymore, the students stand and rush to Ms. Cornfield, surrounding her in a massive group hug. The audience erupts in applause and cheers.

**MARCUS**
*(muffled in the hug)*
We love you, Ms. C!

**IDA**
You saved us!

**MS. CORNFIELD**
*(tears in her eyes)*
No. You saved yourselves. I just reminded you that you could.

CUT TO:

EXT. ISOLATED AREA BEHIND WOODSIDE ELEMENTARY - LATER

The celebration has ended. In a quiet spot behind the school, the Omnibus sits waiting. Morrison stands beside it with Penny on his shoulder. The Room 5B kids approach with their Familiars, Ms. Cornfield leading them.

**MORRISON**
Well, young scholars. Our work here is complete.

**IDA**
You're leaving?

**PENNY**
There are other kids out there who need Familiars. Other schools where magic might make a difference.

**ROBBIE**
*(to Morrison)*
Will we see you again?

**MORRISON**
The universe has a way of bringing people together when they need each other most. This isn't goodbye. It's... see you later.

One by one, the kids and their Familiars say goodbye.

**MARCUS**
*(shaking Morrison's hand)*
Thanks for Henrietta, Mr. M.

**HENRIETTA**
Take care of yourself, magician man. And you, magpie - stay out of trouble.

**PENNY**
No promises.

DeAndre and Yuri approach.

**DEANDRE**
Thanks for believing we could win.

**YURI**
Yeah! We're CHAMPIONS because of you!

**MORRISON**
You were always champions. You just needed to see it.

Sophie and Augustin step forward.

**SOPHIE**
Will other kids get Familiars like ours?

**MORRISON**
Every Familiar is unique, just like every child. But yes, the magic will spread.

Tyler and Pepperoni, Priya and Muriel, Cesar and Rick, Elena and Geraldo - each pair thanks Morrison and Penny. Even quiet Jamal speaks up with Leander beside him.

**JAMAL**
You changed everything.

**MORRISON**
No, young man. You changed everything. We just opened the door.

Ms. Cornfield approaches Morrison.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Brother.

**MORRISON**
Sister.

They embrace, and for a moment, something shimmers around them - a hint of deeper magic.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Until next time?

**MORRISON**
There's always a next time.

Morrison climbs into the Omnibus. Penny flies to the driver's window.

**PENNY**
Hey, Room 5B! Remember - stay magical!

**ALL THE KIDS**
*(together)*
STAY MAGICAL!

Morrison starts the engine. But instead of driving away, the Omnibus begins to glow. The painted patterns on its sides shimmer and swirl.

**TYLER**
*(rapidly)*
Is-it-doing-what-I-think-it's-doing?

The Omnibus rises slowly off the ground. The kids gasp in wonder.

**IDA**
It can fly?!

**MORRISON**
*(calling out the window)*
Did I forget to mention that? How else would we get to schools around the world?

**PENNY**
Show-off!

The Omnibus rises higher, turning gracefully in the air. The afternoon sun catches its painted sides, making it look like a flying rainbow.

**ROBBIE**
*(to Ida)*
Our world just got a lot bigger, didn't it?

**IDA**
*(smiling)*
It was always big. We just couldn't see it before.

The kids and Familiars wave as the Omnibus soars higher, Morrison's laughter echoing back to them. It does a loop - purely for dramatic effect - before heading toward the horizon.

**MS. CORNFIELD**
Come on, everyone. We have a victory party to attend.

As they walk back toward the school, the camera rises to follow the Omnibus flying into the distance. In voice-over, we hear:

**IDA** *(V.O.)*
Some people say magic isn't real. That there are no miracles. But I know better. Magic is real. It lives in the friendship between a girl and her fox. In a teacher who believes in you. In twenty-four kids who learned they were never alone. And somewhere out there, in a flying bus with a dramatic wizard and a reformed thief magpie, looking for the next child who needs to believe in impossible things.

The Omnibus disappears into the clouds, leaving a trail of golden light.

**IDA** *(V.O.)* *(CONT'D)*
My name is Ida Mendez. I'm in Room 5B. And this is just the beginning.

FADE TO BLACK.

THE END

Notes:

I based this screenplay off a German film franchise/children's book series. I thought it would be interesting if I tried my hand at a U.S. remake. Also, the cast of this version will primarily be people of color, because I feel like they don't get enough whimsical fantasy stories. As Walter Dean Myers' son Christopher said: "[Walter Dean Myers] once wrote a story about Dr. Cosmos, a talking chimpanzee who wore a sequined turban, and some kids from Harlem who were matching pets to people by their astrological signs. I remember Pop coming home disappointed after he was told the story would not be published, because astrology, the occult, witchcraft, and the like would not sell--or so The Market had dictated." So in a way, this is my making up for the dearth of people of color in the children's fantasy genre. In case you're wondering, here's some of the relevant media I based my script off of: https://tubitv.com/movies/100033317/school-of-magical-animals https://tubitv.com/movies/100039734/school-of-magical-animals-2-dubbed Also in case you were wondering, here's the song I used for this scene: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmicMhKrhL8&pp=ygUTdGFsayB0byB0aGUgYW5pbWFscw%3D%3D