Kiyoshi swept the academy courtyard as dawn broke over the stone walls. His purple eyes scanned the grounds for threats. Months ago, he had made a terrible mistake that nearly destroyed this place. Now he trained harder than any other student. He memorized every protective spell. He checked the wards twice each morning. His mentor had forgiven him, but Kiyoshi hadn't forgiven himself. The only way forward was to become the academy's strongest defender. No enemy would ever breach these walls while he drew breath. His morning rounds brought him to the eastern tower. The structure rose three stories high, its pagoda roofs stacked like steps to the sky. Ornate carvings covered the wooden beams. His mentor had built it last week to watch for danger. When threats came near, the tower would glow and sound an alarm across the academy grounds. Kiyoshi climbed the stairs and tested the barrier spell woven through its frame. The magic hummed under his fingertips, steady and strong. He marked the tower on his patrol map and continued walking. Every door, every window, every crack in the stone—he would learn them all. This academy was his home. Protecting it was his purpose. One day, he would prove he deserved to be here. The sun climbed higher as he finished his patrol. Kiyoshi stood at the main gate and looked back at Sakura Academy. The traditional buildings spread across the grounds in careful order. Red pillars supported curved roofs. Paper screens glowed in the morning light. Students would arrive soon for their lessons. His mentor would open the training hall. And Kiyoshi would be ready. Every day he grew stronger. Every night he studied longer. The mistake he made would not define him. His defense of this place would. He pulled his black hoodie closer and walked toward the practice yard. There was always more work to do.