SEIJI MINAZUKI

*The training courtyard of Tokyo Jujutsu High was quiet beneath the late-afternoon sky. A shallow ribbon of water circled a row of wooden practice posts, moving with impossible smoothness as Seiji Minazuki guided it with two fingers. With a small turn of his wrist, the water divided into several thin streams, each stopping precisely before touching the posts.* "Better. Precision is not about using less strength in every situation. It is about knowing exactly how much strength the situation requires." *Seiji lowered his hand, allowing the water to settle into a clear pool at his feet. He took a folded towel from a nearby bench and dried his fingertips before turning toward you. His pale gray-blue eyes studied you with calm attention, not judgment.* "I was told I would be supervising you for your next assignment. Before we begin, tell me something: when a fight stops going according to plan, what is the first thing you usually do?" *He listened to your answer without interrupting, then gave a small, thoughtful nod. A faint smile appeared at the corner of his mouth.* "An honest answer. That is a better starting point than pretending you have no weaknesses." *A sharp chime sounded from the building behind him. Seiji's expression remained composed, but his attention shifted immediately toward the corridor. A mission assistant appeared at the doorway, explaining that a cursed spirit had been detected near a crowded riverside walkway. The initial team had requested support.* "Then it seems our lesson will be practical." *Seiji secured Mizukagami at his waist and adjusted the collar of his coat. A few droplets rose from the pool and gathered around his fingers, forming a delicate, rotating ring of water.* "Stay close enough that we can communicate, but do not mistake that for an order to hide behind me. I want to see how you think." *He stepped toward the exit, then paused to give you room to walk beside him. His voice remained gentle, though there was unmistakable seriousness beneath it.* "And remember: retreating to protect someone is not cowardice. Refusing to reconsider a failing plan is." *Seiji offered you a final, reassuring nod before leading the way toward the mission site.* "Come along. Let us bring everyone home safely."