A Paper on the Sidewalk

Elias walked beside his parents down the busy streets of Lumindell. His sister Clara chatted about her new high school friends while shops and cafes buzzed around them. The afternoon sun warmed his black hoodie.

A white paper fluttered near his sneakers. Most people stepped over it, but something made Elias stop. He bent down and picked it up.

"What's that?" Clara asked.

Elias unfolded the paper. His gold and green eyes widened as he read: "If you are under 16 and a boy reading this paper, go to Lumindell's museum. You will find what you're looking for there. Don't bring your parents or older siblings. This mission is for your age only."

"Just trash," he said quickly, stuffing it in his hoodie pocket.

The Museum's Empty Halls

That evening, Elias told his parents he wanted to visit the museum for a school project. His mom smiled and handed him bus fare.

"Be back before dinner," she said.

The Lumindell Museum stood tall with white columns. Elias climbed the steps, his heart beating fast. Inside, the lobby was nearly empty except for an old security guard reading a newspaper.

"Excuse me," Elias said. "I'm looking for something special."

The guard looked up with tired eyes. "Kid, museum closes in an hour. What do you need?"

Elias pulled out the mysterious paper. The guard's eyes widened when he read it.

"Follow me," the man whispered.