The courtyard of Vermillion Private School was alive with energy, a stark contrast to Damien's quiet contemplation. Students filled the space, their voices overlapping in excited chatter as they reconnected after the summer break. Some clustered around the grand fountain in the center, its crystal-clear water catching the morning sun, while others leaned against the intricately carved stone benches that lined the cobbled pathways.
Laughter rang through the air as students shared their summer adventures. A group of boys in pressed blazers and polished shoes stood near the entrance, engaged in a spirited discussion about their family vacations.
"I swear, the yacht was bigger than my entire estate," one of them bragged, running a hand through his carefully styled hair. "We sailed across the Azure Coast, and the parties were unreal."
