The school garden buzzed with life on the first day of school, a perfect blend of beauty and tension. The marble fountain sparkled under the morning sun, surrounded by manicured hedges and bursts of colorful flowers. Students clustered in groups, laughter and whispers filling the air.

Cassandra Evens stood by the fountain, calm yet calculating, her presence commanding. Daniel Moreno lingered near the edge, clutching his schedule, trying to stay unnoticed. Victoria Tanaka’s laughter rang out as she floated between friends, every detail of her appearance flawless.

Elias Grayson leaned against a tree in the shade, observing silently, while Amelia Harper sketched the scene, her quiet presence unnoticed by most. The atmosphere was electric, full of new beginnings—and unspoken rivalries.