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Chapter 1
Chapter 1: The New Kid
Felix Cooper hated being the new kid. He'd been the new kid three times in the past four years, and it never got easier. His mom's job kept moving them around, and each time Felix had to start over—new school, new neighborhood, new everything.
Maple Creek was supposed to be different. His mom promised they'd stay at least two years this time. But on his first Saturday in town, Felix wandered the unfamiliar streets feeling like a ghost. Nobody waved. Nobody smiled. He was invisible.
The comic shop appeared between a laundromat and a vacant storefront, its window dusty and cluttered with faded posters. "Garner's Games & Collectibles" read the hand-painted sign. Felix pushed open the door, and a brass bell announced his arrival.
The shop smelled like old paper and something else—something that reminded Felix of the air before a thunderstorm. Shelves crammed with comics, figurines, and board games created narrow pathways through the store.
"Down here, young man."
Felix jumped. The voice came from somewhere below his feet. He noticed a staircase behind the counter, descending into warm yellow light.
"Don't be shy," the voice continued. "The real collection is in the basement."
Felix knew he shouldn't go into strange basements. But something pulled at him—a feeling like a hook behind his ribs, tugging him forward. He walked down the creaking stairs.
