Chapter 1

**Chapter One**

“Ugh, that’s it, Billy, stop it!” said Sophia, grabbing her book back as hard as she could.

“WHAT HAPPENED?” Mum shouted, rushing in angrily.

“Billy keeps snatching my book, and he says books are for nerds,” Sophia said, holding it tight.

“Well, that’s not very nice, is it, Billy? No cookies for you today. Anyway, we have to get ready for school. Come on now,” Mum said.

“That’s not fair, Mum! I was just stating facts!” Billy argued.

“That’s what you get,” Sophia said teasingly.

Billy rolled his eyes and walked off. Sophia turned away, still holding her book, when something caught her eye.

In the corner of the room was a small portrait. She frowned and walked closer. It was a picture of her father holding a big glowing jewel sword. It had sapphire crystals, tiny red rubies, and gold charms that sparkled in the light.

At first, she thought it was cool.

But then she paused.

Why haven’t I seen this before?

“Probably because we just shifted houses,” she muttered to herself.

Still, something felt strange.

She had so many questions. She opened her mouth to ask—but suddenly, the school bus honked outside.

She sighed.

“Later…” she whispered, and rushed out the door.

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