The room is dimly lit by the morning sun creeping through the window blinds. Danny, tangled in his sheets, snoozes peacefully as his alarm clock starts blaring.

Danny: *groggy, mumbling*Ugh… five more minutes…

He lazily reaches out to turn off the alarm but instead touches something soft. A soft moan is heard.

Marcella: *O.S.* *sleepy, stretching* Mmm… morning already?

Danny’s eyes snap open. Slowly, he looks down and freezes—right there, curled up next to him, is Marcella, wearing one of his shirts, which is oversized on her, barely covering her red panties. The shirt does little to hide her curves or the way she’s comfortably sprawled across his bed.

Danny: *screaming* WHA—?!

Danny flails backward, losing his balance and tumbling off the bed with a loud THUMP.

Marcella: *yawning, adjusting her glasses* Geez, can’t a girl get some sleep around here?

Danny, still sprawled on the floor, scrambles to his feet, his face bright red.

Danny: *frantic* M-Marcy?! What are you doing in my bed again?!

Marcella: *smirking, stretching her arms above her head* Must’ve thought this was my room. Easy mistake.

Danny: *confused, pointing* And why are you wearing one of my shirts?!

Marcella: *shrugs, standing up* I was cold and I Needed something comfy.

Danny gulps as Marcella stands at full height, the shirt just barely covering her as she lazily shifts her weight to one hip. He really shouldn’t be staring, but…

Marcella:*teasing, catching his gaze* Like what you see, Danny-boy?

Danny: *snapping out of it, face burning* Wha—I—I wasn’t—NO! I mean—YES! Wait, no! I mean—uh—I gotta go!

In full panic mode, Danny dashes out of his room, making a beeline for the bathroom. He nearly collides with Jazz, who stands in the hallway, toothbrush in hand.

Jazz: *raising an eyebrow*Whoa, Danny, what’s with the—

Marcellasteps out of Danny’s room behind him, stretching lazily. Jazz pauses, eyes slowly trailing from Marcella’S messy bedhead, to the oversized shirt, to the very obvious fact that it belongs to Danny.

Jazz: *blinking*...Danny?

Danny: *panicked* I can explain!

Jazz: *grinning, arms crossed*Ohhh, I understand completely.

Danny: *defeated* You really don’t.

Jazz just smirks as Danny groans in utter embarrassment. Marcella, meanwhile, leans against the doorframe, amused by all of it.

Marcella: *smirking* Well, this was fun. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need breakfast.

Marcellacasually walks off, completely unbothered, leaving Danny red-faced and Jazz still smirking knowingly.

The camera then fades to the TV as it plays a rerun of "Ghost Getters," some over-the-top paranormal investigation show. Danny lounges on the couch, half-watching, half-zoning out. A glass of orange juice sits on the coffee table in front of him. Enter Marcella, now back in her usual attire—her blue cropped tank top with the red oval emblem, light blue denim-style shorts, and red and white sneakers. She adjusts her black-framed glasses as she walks into the room, tossing an orange in her hand.

Marcella: *casually* Morning cartoons on your magic picture box, Danny? Thought you were more of a ‘saves the world before lunch’ kinda guy.

Danny: *smirks* Yeah, well, even heroes need downtime. And 1, technology, 2, it's called a TV.

Marcellasmirks back before stopping in front of the coffee table. She lifts the orange, eyes glowing slightly as she opens her mouth—her sharp fangs glinting.

With a swift motion, she sinks them into the orange, draining it. The vibrant fruit withers instantly, turning gray and dry as every last drop of juice is siphoned away. A thin stream of juice dribbles down her lips before she licks it off nonchalantly. She tosses the husk aside like it’s nothing.

Danny: *staring, a little grossed out*

You know, most people just peel their oranges.

Marcella: *teasing*Most people aren’t me.

Danny: *scoffs* Yeah, no kidding.

Marcella stretches and cracks her knuckles.

Marcella: Alright, I’m heading out. Got stuff to do.

Danny: *sitting up* Wait—what kind of ‘stuff’?

Marcella: *half-smiling* The fun kind.

Danny: *skeptical* That’s not reassuring.

Marcella: *chuckles* Relax, Danny-boy. I’ll be careful.

Danny: *sighs* I mean it, Marcy. If I’m not with you, just… don’t get into trouble, okay?

Marcella flgives him a playful salute as she heads toward the door.

Marcella: Scout’s honor.

Danny: *muttering to himself* You were never a scout…

The door closes behind Marcellaas she steps outside. Danny leans back on the couch, watching the door for a moment before exhaling.

Danny: *smirks to himself* Yeah… I really hope she’ll be safe.

Danny is still lounging on the couch, flipping through TV channels absentmindedly. His phone suddenly buzzes on the armrest. He picks it up and checks the caller ID—Sam. Sighing, he answers.

Danny: *into phone* Hey, Sam.

Sam: *O.S.* *from phone* Hey Danny, wanna hang out? Tucker and I were thinking about heading to the arcade.

Danny: *scratches the back of his head* Uh…  yeah … can’t.

Sam: *O.S.* *skeptical* What do you mean, ‘can’t’? Since when do you turn down the arcade?

Danny: *defensive* It’s not like that! It’s just… Marcy went out alone, so I figured I’d stay here and wait. Y’know, just in case she’s out late or gets into… something.

Sam: *O.S.* *deadpan* So, let me get this straight. You’re ditching us to sit at home and wait for Marcella?

Danny: *sighs* It’s not like that, Sam. She’s… unpredictable. I just wanna make sure she’s okay.

Sam:  *O.S.* *scoffs* Right. Because she’s totally the type who needs protection.

Danny: *irritated* Sam—

Sam: *O.S.* *quickly* Okay, whatever. Later.

She hangs up before Danny can respond. Danny frowns at his phone.

Danny: *muttering* She really doesn’t like Marcy, does she?

He tosses his phone onto the couch and exhales, still slightly uneasy about Marcella being out alone.

Back with Sam, she slams her phone down onto her desk, arms crossed and brow furrowed. She quickly picks it back up and dials another number. It rings twice before Tucker: answers.

Tucker: *O.S.* *lazily* Yo, what’s up, Sam?

Sam: *determined* Change of plans. We’re gonna keep an eye on Marcella.

Tucker:  *O.S.* *confused* Wait, what? Why?

Sam: *suspicious* Danny’s acting weird. He’s all ‘I gotta wait for Marcy’ like she’s some lost puppy. I wanna know what she’s really up to.

Tucker: *O.S.* *skeptical* Or—and hear me out—maybe we don’t stalk the new girl and just go to the arcade like normal people?

Sam: *serious* Tucker:, I need backup.

Tucker: *O.S.* *smirks* Yeah, I dunno, Sam. I mean, following Marcella around town sounds like a lot of work, and—

Sam: *raising an eyebrow* If you don’t help me, I will destroy your PDA.

There’s a beat of silence on the other end.

Tucker: *O.S.* *suddenly serious* …Where do we start?

Sam: *smirks* Meet me outside at ten.

She hangs up, grabbing her bag and heading for the door as we cut to Tucker:, adjusting his red beret, jogs up to Sam, who stands with her arms crossed, scanning the area.

Sam and Tucker: walk through town, scanning the area for any sign of Marcella. Tucker: adjusts his glasses, already looking exhausted.

Tucker: *grumbling* I just wanna go on record—this is a really bad idea.

Sam: *rolling her eyes* Noted. Again.

Tucker: *scoffs* Come on, Sam. Why are we even doing this? You’re acting like Marcella’s some supervillain.

Sam: *firm* She’s dangerous. And I’m protecting Danny.

Tucker: *smirks* Protecting him from what, exactly? A girl who likes to hang out with him?

Sam: *skeptical* She’s not just a girl.

Tucker: *counting on his fingers* Okay, so she’s got fangs, eats in a way that would make food critics faint, and is weirdly athletic—like, Olympic-level athletic.

Sam: *sarcastic* Yeah, totally normal.

Tucker: *continues* She’s also hot. Like, way hotter than Paulina, Star, or even Valerie—

Sam: *deadpan* Tucker.

Tucker: *ignoring her* —and she’s super nice, looks good in anything, does crazy magic tricks, and so far hasn’t done anything bad or evil toward Danny. Face it, Sam. You just don’t like her.

Sam: *crosses arms* That’s not true.

Tucker: *dry* Uh-huh.

Before Sam can argue, they turn a corner and spot Marcella at the Farmer’s Market browsing through fresh produce. She casually inspects some apples before selecting a few and tossing them into her bag. The two duck behind a nearby stand, peeking over cautiously.

Sam: *narrowing eyes* There she is.

Tucker: *flat* Wow. The horror. She’s buying fruit.

Marcellathen pulls out her magic storage cube, a floating black-and-gold device that shimmers with arcane energy. She opens it and places her groceries inside effortlessly before closing it again.

Tucker: *eyes widening* Okay, that’s cool.

Sam: *ignoring him* See? That’s not normal.

Marcella suddenly stiffens, her aquamarine eyes flickering to the side as if sensing something. Sam and Tucker, immediately flinch, pressing themselves further behind the stall. After a tense moment, Marcella shrugs and continues browsing.

Tucker: *whispering* That was way too close.

Marcellais about to leave but then stops as she spots something—a pile of large, ripe watermelons. Her eyes widen, and she licks her lips hungrily.

Marcella: *breathless* Ooooh… come to mama.

She grabs a particularly large one, cradling it for a moment before opening her mouth, brandishing her fangs. With a swift motion, she sinks her teeth into the rind. Bright red juice spills from the puncture wounds as she drinks deeply, the liquid dripping down her lips and chin.

Sam and Tucker watch in stunned silence as the once-plump watermelon rapidly shrivels, turning gray and withered. The contrast of red juice against Marcella’s dark skin makes it look like she’s drinking blood. Tucker shifts uncomfortably while Sam looks disgusted.

Sam: *disturbed* Okay… that’s just wrong.

Tucker: *still processing* You… you saw that too, right? That wasn’t just me?

Sam: *deadpan* Unfortunately.

A nearby  farmer, an older man with a straw hat, stares in bewildered shock. Marcella tosses a gold coin his way, still licking her lips.

Marcella: *grinning* Keep the change. You’ve got amazing fruit.

She flips her hair and casually walks off, leaving the farmer still staring at the now-useless husk of what was once a watermelon.

Sam and Tucker exchange glances before quickly following Marcellaat a safe distance.

Tucker: *grumbling* Yep. This is gonna be a long day.

We later see Sam and Tucker are crouched behind a large shrub near a daycare center. They're still spying on Marcella, who stands by the crosswalk, casually observing a group of kids playing nearby.

Sam: *squinting, whispering* She’s up to something. I know it.

Tucker: *rolling his eyes* Sam, she’s literally just standing there. What exactly is she “up to,” huh?

Sam: *annoyed* Just you wait. I’ll bet she’s planning some weird, evil thing… like luring kids into a van or—

Suddenly, Marcella snaps her fingers. In a blink, she’s transformed into a bright yellow crossing guard uniform. The change is almost instantaneous, and she now stands at the crosswalk, smiling warmly at the little kids approaching.

Marcella: *loudly* Alright, kiddos! Single file, now! Follow me, and stay in line! We’re crossing safely today!

The children, who seem completely at ease around Marcella, follow her obediently across the crosswalk. Marcella steps confidently, making sure the kids are in line and watching for any oncoming traffic. The kids, to Sam and Tucker:’s surprise, seem to absolutely adore her.

Kid #1: *excitedly* Hey, look! It’s Batgirl!

Marcella: *playfully, smiling* That’s right! Batgirl at your service!

The children giggle and cheer, clearly enjoying the attention from Marcella. She’s calm, collected, and completely in control as she guides them safely across the street. Tucker: watches in disbelief while Sam’s eyes narrow in suspicion.

Sam: *whispering to Tucker* Did she just let them call her “Batgirl”?

Tucker: *shrugging* Hey, it’s not like that’s a bad thing. She’s helping them across the street. You know, like an actual hero.

Sam: *skeptical* She’s using that nickname to hide something. This has got to be a front for something dark. I can feel it.

Tucker: *sighing* Sam, seriously. She’s just—what? Helping little kids across the street, guiding them safely like she’s supposed to. You know, not every small favor is a plot for world domination.

Sam: *stubbornly* I’m telling you, there’s more to this. She’s up to something. Why would she choose to be a crossing guard out of nowhere? It's just... suspicious.

The kids cheer again as Marcellaleads them safely across, beaming at their happiness. A few of the children run up to her excitedly, tugging on her shirt.

Kid #2: *adoring* You’re so cool, Batgirl! Can you play with us next time?

Marcella: *sweetly*  Of course, sweetie! Just remember, always cross safely, okay?

She gives the child a gentle pat on the head, and the group of kids runs off. Marcellawatches them with a content smile, happy to have helped. Sam, however, still looks suspicious.

Sam: *frowning* See? It’s all too perfect. Too friendly. Too nice. She’s using this to get closer to Danny or—

Tucker: *interrupting, grinning* Or maybe she’s just being a decent person? You know, not everything has to be an evil scheme.

Sam: *glaring* I’m not buying it. Not until I find out what she’s really up to.

The kids continue to cheer for Marcellaas she waves goodbye and begins to walk away from the daycare, still with that Same calm demeanor.

Tucker: *sighs, looking at his watch* I can’t believe we’re still following her. This is ridiculous.

Sam: *stubborn* You can think whatever you want, Tucker, I’ll get to the bottom of this.

Tucker: *under his breath* Yeah, well, it’s gonna be a long day.

Sam and Tucker continue to follow at a distance, unsure of how much longer they’ll be able to keep up this spy game as they crouch behind a bush, trying to stay out of sight. They watch Marcellaas she enters the daycare center. Sam’s eyes narrow in suspicion as Tucker looks around nervously.

Tucker: *whispering* I’m telling you, Sam, this is getting ridiculous. Why are we still following her?

Sam: *whispering, determined* She’s hiding something. I can feel it. We’re going in!

They sneak behind the building, staying hidden as they peek into the daycare classroom through the windows and see Marcellais now inside the classroom, standing in front of a group of eager little kids and a teacher. She’s wearing a big smile as she pulls out a large, giant beet the size of a watermelon from her bag.

Tuckee: *whispering, surprised* How did she get a beet that big?

Sam: *whispering, suspicious* She probably stole it from the farmer's market. That's the only explanation.

They continue watching, but then their jaws drop as Marcella bares her vampiric fangs in front of the kids and the teacher. The kids look excited, and the teacher is smiling with amusement. Marcellasinks her fangs into the giant beet, draining the juice with relish as it drips down her lips, making the beet turn gray and shriveled.

Sam: *whispering, disgusted* That’s... that’s blood! She’s drinking blood in front of the kids!

Tucker: *whispering, disturbed* It’s not blood. It’s just beet juice. The kids don’t seem to mind.

The children, excited by the spectacle, clap their hands and cheer.

Kid #1: *laughing* It’s like cherry syrup!

Teacher: *amused* That’s a lot of juice, Marcella! You’re our best special helper today!

Marcellagives a playful wink to the teacher and kids, then wipes the beet juice off her lips.

Marcella: *cheerfully* It’s all in the day’s work, kiddos! Now who wants some fruit juice?

Sam glares at the scene through the window, her arms crossed.

Sam: *whispering, determined* I knew it! This is part of her evil plan. She’s turning kids into... what? Her little army?

Tucker: *whispering, dismissing her* Sam, that doesn’t look like an evil plan to me. She’s just being nice to the kids.

Sam: *whispering* You can’t possibly think this is normal! She’s acting like a teacher or something!

They continue to spy, watching as Marcella crushes the fruit from the farmer’s market using her telekinesis, turning it into juice with a wave of her hand. She fills cups and hands them to the kids and teacher.

Marcella: *smiling* Here you go, everyone! Fresh juice, all thanks to my special powers.

The kids and the teacher happily sip the juice, laughing and enjoying themselves. Marcella looks proud of her work.

Sam: *whispering, disbelieving* This is definitely part of her evil plot! I’m sure of it!

Tucker: *whispering, annoyed* Sam, nothing about this looks evil! She’s just doing some magic tricks and giving kids juice. Seriously, can’t you just let it go?

Sam: *whispering* No, Tucker. I need proof. I’m taking a video.

Sam pulls out her phone, recording the whole situation. Tucker groans in annoyance.

The kids and Marcella are now playing, laughing, and having fun together. Marcella runs around with the kids, playing tag and showing off her agility. The teacher watches from the corner of the room, smiling at the scene.

Tucker: *whispering, exhausted* This... this can’t possibly be evil, Sam. It’s just a nice time at daycare.

Sam: *whispering, not convinced* I’m still not buying it. She’s manipulating everyone.

Eventually, it’s nap time. The kids start lying down on the soft carpet, and Marcella sits nearby, leaning back against the wall. She closes her eyes, laying down next to the kids and taking a nap as well.

Tucker: *sighs, whispering* And now she’s napping with them? Seriously? What’s next?

Sam: *stubborn* Something’s off. I can feel it. She’s probably just playing nice so she can... I don’t know, brainwash them later.

Tucker: *skeptical* Brainwash? Sam, she’s literally napping. With little kids. This is not an evil plot.

Sam: *whispering, frustrated* You just don’t get it, do you, Tucker?

The scene shifts to Marcella reading a story to the kids as they eat their snacks. She’s calm, smiling, and fully engaged with them. Sam and Tucker are still watching from outside, peeking through the window.

Sam: *whispering, incredulously* She’s reading to them now? This is just... too weird!

Tucker: *whispering, exasperated* It’s just a story, Sam. Relax.

It’s the end of the day. Marcella stands outside with the kids, smiling brightly as she waves goodbye to them. The kids run off to meet their parents, calling back to her.

Kid #2: *cheerfully* Bye, Batgirl! See you tomorrow!

Marcella: *waving* Take care, little ones! See you soon!

Sam and Tucker stand quietly as they watch Marcellalead the kids to their parents. Sam is still not convinced.

Sam: *skeptical* See? All that “kindness” is just part of her plan. It has to be.

Tucker: *sighing* Sam, I think you need a break. Just... let it go. Maybe she’s not evil. Maybe she’s just... nice.

Sam and Tucker are still crouched behind a bush near the daycare center, continuing their watch on Marcella. They observe her saying goodbye to the kids, waving them off as they head into the arms of their parents. Marcella stands tall, smiling, then starts walking away, unaware of the duo trailing her.

Sam: *whispering, determined* See? She's up to something. First, she gets all buddy-buddy with the kids, and now she's leaving the daycare like she’s some kind of... charming villain.

Tucker: *whispering, exasperated* She’s not a villain, Sam. She’s just... being nice. You’re overthinking this.

Sam: *whispering, sharp* No. She’s scheming. You saw how she manipulated those kids, Tucker. And now she’s walking off like she owns the place!

Marcella, in her usual outfit, strolls through the park, unaware that Sam and Tucker are still tailing her. She walks with an effortless grace, her eyes scanning the surroundings. Eventually, she spots a group of stray cats lounging in the sun. Her eyes light up with delight.

Marcella: *playfully, smiling* Aww, little furballs, look at you all!

She crouches down and gently calls them over. The cats seem to immediately warm up to her, happily purring as she pets them one by one.

Sam: *whispering, convinced* There! See? She’s luring innocent animals. This has ‘evil mastermind’ written all over it!

Tucker: *whispering, incredulous* Are you serious? She's just playing with some cats. What, now she's going to take over the world one stray at a time?

Sam: *whispering, resolute* No. She’s building an army. First kids, now cats. Who knows what’s next, Tucker? Maybe she’s got plans for mind-controlling squirrels.

Tucker: *sighing* Sam, you really need to ease up. It's just... a bunch of cats.

Marcellais sitting cross-legged on the ground, surrounded by several playful cats. They leap into her lap, purring and rubbing against her. She smiles fondly at them, clearly enjoying the moment. She pulls out a piece of dry cat food from her pocket, offering it to one of the cats, who eagerly takes it from her hand.

Marcella: *teasingly* You like that, huh? Don't get too spoiled, now.

The cats continue to frolic around her, clearly drawn to her. Sam and Tucker continue spying, with Sam furiously recording the entire thing on her phone.

Sam: *whispering, into her phone* Marcella's true form is finally revealed! First, it’s kids, then it’s animals. She’s creating an army, one adorable creature at a time.

Tucker: *whispering, frustrated* Sam, seriously, you’re just making this all up. She’s literally playing with cats. That’s it. I don’t know why you’re seeing this as some kind of grand plan.

Sam: *whispering* Because she’s up to something! I need this footage to show Danny. She could be manipulating him too, Tucker! This is how we protect him!

After a few moments, Marcella gets up, brushing the cat hair off her shorts. The cats follow her, still purring and rubbing against her legs. Marcella turns and gives them one last affectionate wave.

Marcella: *smiling, to the cats* Alright, my little fluff balls. You guys be good now, okay? I'll see you around.

With that, Marcellastarts to walk away, heading deeper into the park. Sam and Tucker continue to follow, still hidden behind the bushes.

Sam: *whispering* There it is, Tucker. She's building her little army. I need to show Danny this—he won’t believe it unless I have proof!

Tucker: *sighing, exasperated* I can’t believe you’re going this far. You know, maybe if you stopped spying and talked to Marcella, you’d realize she’s just... normal. She's not evil, Sam!

Sam: *sharply* She’s dangerous, Tucker. You’ve seen it. She’s hiding her true nature. I won’t let her hurt Danny!

Marcella walks further into the park, still oblivious to Sam and Tucker’s continued pursuit. The soft breeze ruffles her long, flowing hair, and she casually glances at her surroundings. As she reaches the edge of the park, she stops to look back at the street for a moment.

Marcella: *muttering to herself* Hmm... seems like the perfect time for a break.

She sits on a nearby bench, pulling out her phone and scrolling through it, clearly relaxed.

Sam: *whispering, quietly to Tucker* Now’s our chance. We should get closer... this is the perfect time to catch her in the act.

Tucker: *whispering, tired* Sam, seriously. She’s just sitting there. If she was up to something bad, wouldn’t she be, you know, doing something by now?

As Marcella relaxes, Sam and Tucker exchange a glance. Sam’s hand tightens around her phone, but she’s still clearly conflicted, not fully convinced by the peaceful scene she’s witnessing.

Sam and Tucker are crouched behind a stack of crates near the entrance of a modest soup kitchen. They watch as Marcella walks into the kitchen, carrying a large tray of food. She smiles warmly at the people in line, greeting them as she serves the soup and bread with a casual, kind demeanor.

Sam: *whispering, annoyed* There she goes again, playing the perfect little angel. Look at her—feeding the homeless. As if that's not part of some evil master plan.

Tucker: *whispering, exasperated* Sam, she’s literally helping people. You’re really gonna act like this is some kind of evil plot?

Sam: *whispering, resolute* It’s a distraction. She’s trying to make herself look all sweet and charitable, but this is exactly what a villain would do before they strike. And I’m not falling for it.

Marcella moves gracefully between tables, serving food with a smile. She listens attentively to the people as they thank her, nodding and offering words of encouragement. She offers a bowl of soup to an elderly man, and he smiles up at her with gratitude.

Elderly Man: *grateful* Thank you, miss. You’ve made this old man’s day. God bless you.

Marcella: *sincerely* You’re welcome. Stay warm out here, okay? It’s cold tonight.

She moves to another table, where a group of younger people are sitting. She hands out food with a gentle, caring touch, making sure everyone has enough. One of the young men looks up at her with a thankful smile.

Young Man: *smiling* This is amazing. You’re really making a difference, you know? Thanks for everything.

Marcella: *with a soft smile* It’s nothing. Just doing what I can to help. You all deserve it.

She gives them some extra bread, and the group thanks her again, smiling warmly.

Sam and Tucker are still hiding behind the crates, with Sam holding her phone, recording everything as she mutters to herself in frustration.

Sam: *whispering, angry* See? She’s pulling all the strings. She’s playing everyone. This is how they get you, Tucker. Sweet and innocent on the outside, but underneath? Who knows what she’s up to?

Tucker: *whispering, shaking his head* Sam, you’re seriously getting paranoid. She’s helping people, feeding them, giving out food and even money. What kind of evil plan involves helping the homeless?

Sam: *whispering, agitated* It’s the perfect cover, Tucker! Look, she even gave them gold! Gold! Do you think this is just charity? No. She’s buying their loyalty. Who knows what she’ll make them do next?

Marcella walks to the front counter, where the kitchen staff thank her for her help. She pulls out a small pouch and hands it to one of the workers. Inside the pouch are several gold coins.

Marcella: *kindly* For the staff. You’re all doing great work. Keep it up.

Kitchen Worker: *surprised* Whoa... You didn’t have to do that, but thanks. That’s generous of you.

Marcella: *smiling* You’re welcome. Everyone deserves a little kindness.

Sam’s eyes widen with disbelief as she watches Marcella hand out gold. She immediately starts recording it on her phone.

Sam: *whispering, furious* There it is! Gold! This is it! She's bribing them, Tucker. What does she need gold for unless she’s trying to buy people’s loyalty? This is part of her plan, I just know it.

Tucker: *whispering, sighing* Sam, you’ve got to be kidding me. She’s just being generous. It’s not an “evil plan.” She’s helping people, giving them food, and giving back to the community. That’s not villainous.

Marcella finishes serving the last of the customers and turns to walk out of the kitchen. She waves to the staff, who are now cleaning up. She smiles at them and heads for the door.

Marcella: *cheerfully* Take care, everyone. See you next week.

As she leaves, a few of the customers shout their thanks to her from across the room.

Customer 1: *shouting* Thank you, Batgirl!

Customer 2: *gratefully* You’re a blessing, Marcella!

Marcella smiles at the sound of the praise, looking back at them with a wave before exiting the kitchen.

Sam and Tucker follow Marcella as she walks down the street, still recording her movements on her phone. Sam is fuming.

Sam: *whispering, seething* I can’t believe this. She’s so good at playing the part, it’s almost like she’s fooling everyone. I’m telling you, Tucker, she’s setting us up for something huge. I’ll have all this footage, and Danny won’t be able to deny it.

Tucker: *whispering, annoyed* Sam, you're not gonna like what I'm about to say, but... what if you're wrong? Maybe Marcella's just a good person, and she's not evil. She’s really just helping out... I mean, you saw how everyone reacted to her. You can't just ignore that.

Sam: *whispering, sharply* It’s part of the plan. All of it. You’ll see.

Marcella continues walking down the street, unaware that Sam and Tucker are still tailing her. As she moves away from the soup kitchen, the evening sky begins to darken.

Soon it was near sundown, as we see Sam and Tucker are still quietly following Marcella, keeping their distance as she walks toward Fenton Works. Sam is continuing to record with her phone, her face still set in determination.

Sam: *whispering* I don’t know what’s going on, but this has to be part of her plan. She’s always moving, always scheming. She can’t just be this nice.

Tucker: *whispering* Sam, I think you're jumping to conclusions. She’s just going home.

Suddenly, the sky shifts—turning a deep, unsettling shade of red. The ground rumbles, and a massive red portal tears open in the sky, startling both Sam and Tucker. A coffin crashes down from the portal and lands with a deep thud on the ground. It begins to crack open, revealing a blue-colored mechanical demon with gear-like limbs. This is Pain, Driver of Agony. The demon lets out a low, mechanical growl.

Sam: *whispering, shocked* What... What is that?!

Tucker: *whispering, confused* That’s no ghost, Sam. Danny’s never faced anything like that.

Marcella stops dead in her tracks, her eyes narrowing as she stares at the giant demon. The demon looks down at her, its voice booming in Enochian, which only Marcella can understand.

Pain: *speaking in Enochian* You, plague of this world... You shall not remain.

Marcella’s eyes flash with surprise, then she smirks confidently.

Marcella: *speaking in Enochian* A plague, you say? Well, at least this world is fun to be in. And I’m not leaving without a fight.

Pain: *speaking in Enochian* So be it.

The demon’s voice reverberates through the air. Without warning, Marcella’s eyes glow an eerie red as her body transforms. Her deep brown complexion remains, but her appearance shifts as she transforms into her vampire ghost form. Her hair becomes long, black, and styled with vibrant silver streaks. She wears black-framed glasses and a red tank top, along with dark blue shorts and blue and gray sneakers. She looks every bit the powerful, otherworldly being.

Tucker: *whispering, wide-eyed* Did… did she just turn into a ghost?!

Sam: *whispering, stunned* No way… She's… half-ghost?! And she’s been hiding it the whole time!

Sam, now capturing the entire scene on her phone, watches in shock as Marcella squares off against the towering mechanical demon.

Marcella crouches low, her body poised for combat. Pain raises one of its mechanical arms and swings at her. Marcella dodges, moving with Olympic-level agility. She quickly retaliates with a series of powerful punches and kicks, which are absorbed by Pain’s metal armor.

Pain roars, swinging its heavy fists. Marcella dodges again and leaps into the air, disappearing in a flash of ghostly energy. She reappears directly behind the demon and delivers a swift blow to its back. The impact cracks the metal, but Pain isn’t finished yet. It roars and turns to face her.

The demon speaks in Enochian again, challenging her.

Pain: *speaking in Enochian* You are nothing but an insect. I will crush you.

Marcella: *smirking, in Enochian* Then try.

Marcella extends her hands, summoning ectoplasmic energy to envelop her fists. She charges at Pain, her ghostly powers manifesting as blue, glowing ectoplasmic energy that crackles with power. With a battle cry, Marcella freezes Pain in place using her telekinetic abilities.

Sam: *whispering, excited* This is insane! She’s not just half-ghost, she’s powerful! Look at her go!

Tucker: *whispering, reluctantly*

I... I can't deny it. This is incredible.

Marcella’s fist glows with powerful ectoplasmic energy as she punches Pain’s chest with all her might. The force of the blow shatters the demon’s armor and causes it to explode in a burst of energy. Pain lets out a final, anguished roar as it disintegrates into nothingness.

Marcella stands over the debris of the mechanical demon, breathing heavily but victorious. She glances around the area, ensuring the battle is over, before taking to the air, flying back toward Fenton Works. Her ghostly aura fades as she zooms away, unaware of Sam and Tucker’s presence.

Tucker: *whispering, in disbelief* That was… that was amazing.

Sam: *whispering, fiercely* That’s my proof, Tucker. She’s been hiding it from Danny the whole time. She’s evil, and now I have the evidence to prove it.

Tucker: *whispering, shaking his head* Sam, I don’t think you get it. She just saved the day. She took down that demon by herself. You can’t call that evil.

Sam holds up her phone, still recording.

Sam: *whispering, determined* I’ll let Danny decide. He needs to know what she really is.

Sam and Tucker continue watching from their hiding spot, the sounds of Marcella’s flight growing quieter as she disappears into the distance.

Tucker: *whispering, sighing* This is gonna be a long night...

We later see Danny lounges on the couch, flipping through TV channels when the front door creaks open. Marcella steps in, her golden streaks catching the dim light.

Danny: Hey, Marcy. Everything good?

Marcella: *smirks* Peachy. Just a long day.

Danny: What’d you do?

Marcella shrugs as she steps further inside, kicking off her sneakers.

Marcella: Oh, you know. Farmer’s market, daycare gig, playing with some cats, volunteering at a soup kitchen...

Danny: *grinning* Wow. Evil mastermind stuff, huh?

Marcella: *innocent smile* Absolutely diabolical.

*KNOCK! KNOCK!*

Danny gets up, opens the door to reveal Sam and Tucker. Sam has a smug, almost victorious look.

Danny: Uh… what are you guys doing here?

Sam: *triumphantly holding up her phone* We have proof of Marcella’s evil plan!

Tucker: *muttering* Oh boy…

Sam presses play. The video shows Marcella at the farmer’s market, daycare, soup kitchen—all “suspicious” activities. Danny watches, unimpressed.

Sam:  And, for the finale—Marcella is half ghost!

Tucker winces. Danny crosses his arms.

Danny: Yeah… I know.

Sam and Tucker’s jaws drop.

Sam: *exploding* What do you mean you know?!

Danny: *flatly* I mean… I knew.

Sam: And you didn’t think to tell us?!

Danny opens his mouth to respond, but footsteps interrupt. Marcella saunters down the stairs—now wearing one of Danny’s oversized shirts, casually covering her frame, but clearly revealing her toned legs and her black lacy panties.

Marcella: *stretching, yawning* Danny, what’s taking so long— *sees Sam and Tucker* oh, hey guys.

Sam turns red, but out of anger. Tucker turns red for… other reasons.

Sam: You are so—! *shakes head* Never mind! You’re half ghost!

Marcella *blinking* Huh. You just now figured that out?

Sam: *throws hands up* That’s not the point!

Tucker: *hesitant* So… wait. If you’re a vampire, how do you have ghost powers?

Marcella smirks, nudging Danny.

Marcella: Oh, you can thank your ghostboy here for that.

Sam and Tucker freeze.

Sam: *slowly* …You drank Danny’s blood?!

Danny: *defensive* Not on purpose!

Marcella: *sheepish* Yeah, that was… uh, kind of a feral thing. Needed a meal, grabbed the nearest source of power. You get how it is.

Tucker: *whispering* I really don’t.

Sam:  *arms crossed* *To Danny* And you didn’t think to tell us?!

Danny: *sighs* It wasn’t my secret to tell.

Marcella: *nods* I was gonna get to it… eventually. But hey, now’s as good a time as any.

Tucker: *grinning* Well, welcome to the team.

Sam: *stiff* She can’t be on the team!

Danny: *defensive* Why not?! She hasn’t done anything wrong.

Tucker: *supportive* Yeah, she seems cool. I mean, she’s a vampire ghost hybrid, but she’s also, like, super chill.

Sam *grumbling* Fine. But I’m watching you.

Marcella smirks, arms crossed.

Marcella: *smirking* Soooo… would now be a bad time to tell you guys I know Danny’s half ghost too?

Sam & Tucker: *shocked* WHAT?!

Sam: *turning on Danny* Did you tell her?!

Danny: *holding hands up* No! She figured it out on her own.

Marcella: *amused* Honestly, it wasn’t that hard. His ghost form looks just like his human one. Same face, Same hair, just different colors. And he only changed his last name from Fenton to Phantom? Come on. Anyone with a brain could have figured out his secret identity just by looking at him once.

Tucker nods in agreement.

Tucker: *to Danny* Yeah, dude. She’s got a point.

Sam grits her teeth, looking at Marcella like she’s a threat.

Sam: *narrowing eyes* You better not use that as blackmail.

Danny: *defensive* She’s not going to!

Marcella:  *casually* Never crossed my mind.

Sam fumes, but Tucker nudges her.

Tucker: *joking* Just let it go, Sam. It’s not like she’s plotting world domination… right?

Marcella: *grinning* Not yet, anyway.

Danny groans, Tucker laughs, and Sam facepalms.

Marcella: *grinning* Oh, by the way, my ghost cover name? Silver Sable.

Sam: *raising a brow* What kind of name is that?

Marcella: *proudly* Paulina came up with it.

Danny, Sam, and Tucker burst into laughter-only for it to die down when they see Marcella isn't joking.

Sam: *Awkwardly* Oh… you're serious.

Marcella: Yes I am and I like it. And for the record-no one disrespects Paulina in front of me. And if you ever do that again I'll haunt your dreams.

Danny, Sam, and Tucker gulp, nervous.

Next: Chapter 9: Attack of the Killer Garage Sale.