Jacob Jax, a 10-year-old boy with an inquisitive gaze, scanned the playground for his best friend. He could see faint outlines flickering in the sunlight—his unique power let him spot invisible people, but never ghosts. George Lek, easily identified by his mischievous grin and bright red short hair, darted around, attempting to prank unsuspecting kids who, unlike Jacob Jax, couldn’t see him.
"Nice try, George. I see you," he called out with a sly smile. George Lek pouted, realizing his game was up, and dashed away, his laughter fading into the woods.
Jacob Jax[/@ch_3] hurries after George Lek. A sudden stumble sends him tumbling down twelve uneven steps, the world spinning as air rushes past. At the bottom, a shimmering blue portal swirls, casting strange shadows on the ground.]
Jacob Jax barely glimpsed George Lek safe at the top before falling into the portal. The sensation was dizzying—wind whistling, colors blurring—until the world turned inside out. He landed softly, grass beneath his palms, in a place he had never seen before.
Everything was unfamiliar—vibrant trees with silver leaves, floating lanterns, and strange symbols glowing on the ground.
Jacob Jax[/@ch_3], surreal and dreamlike. The sky is lavender, with two suns casting overlapping shadows. A gathering of teens in unusual clothing stands in a ring, their eyes full of expectation.]
Two older teens stepped forward: Jezzie Jones, a confident 16-year-old with a determined expression, and her best friend Max Ben, tall with an easy grin. "You’re finally here," Jezzie Jones said, her gaze steady. Max Ben added, "We expected George, but Jacob, you’ll do even better."
"Wait—Why am I here instead of George? And why does everyone want me to pretend I’m him?" Jacob Jax demanded, his voice shaky but brave.
Jezzie Jones explained, "George’s pranks got him in trouble. We need someone to represent him, but you’re more trustworthy. If you pretend to be George, we won’t lose our bet—and you won’t be stuck here."
Max Ben chimed in, "We’ll swap clothes, payment systems, and even magical powers, except for Jezzie. Your rare power makes you valuable." Jacob Jax crossed his arms, thinking. "If I’m risking everything, I want half the earnings and to be leader—or at least called Jacob. What’s in it for me if I’m forced to lie?"
Max Ben hesitated, glancing at Jezzie Jones. "We only said we’d bring someone back, not specifically George. If you agree, we’ll swap everything as promised—and you’ll keep your name if you want."
Jacob Jax nodded slowly. "Let me talk to George first. I know when people are lying. You want my power, not just a stand-in. Did George refuse, and now you need me to cover your bet?"
Jezzie Jones looked away, confirming Jacob Jax’s suspicions.
Jacob Jax[/@ch_3] becomes George in form, but remains himself inside. The crowd cheers, believing the prankster has returned.]
"This feels strange. I hate lying, but if this is what it takes to help, I’ll do it. But remember, I’m still Jacob inside," he said, adjusting his now too-short sleeves. Jezzie Jones smiled, grateful. Max Ben nodded, hopeful their gamble would pay off.
As the sun set over Jazin’s world, Jacob Jax looked toward the horizon, determined to play his reluctant part—knowing that, no matter what face he wore, he would always tell the truth.
