Chapter 8

For four years since I was seven, I have spent my time preparing and gathering information.

I diligently made paper and cut out human shapes, memorizing what my tutor said while observing my father's and brother's magic with my shikigami. I exercised outdoors and, whenever I had a chance, I delved into the books and scrolls in the library to study history and foreign languages.

Looking back, I've been doing nothing but preparing since I came here.

But I have changed. I've grown taller, put on some weight, and even my teeth have been replaced.

It's about time I take action.

By the way, there have been changes around me too.

Especially with Grail.

To be specific...

First, since I demonstrated my curse, he no longer hides his personal belongings.

He seemed to be quite scared despite his tough talk, which made my life here even more comfortable.

However, he started to take out his frustrations on the servants.

That said, he doesn't defy those who are older, stronger, or close to my parents. The targets are usually those who are younger, female, or slaves—like Eifa.

This guy is really... how far will he go?

How far will you go, brother?

"Hey, slave! Do you know what you've done? You've dirtied my clothes!"

"I'm very sorry, Master Grail."

Younger, female, or a slave... yes, someone like Eifa.

This guy is really... how far will he go?

How far will your nature take you, brother?

"Because Father and Mother are too kind, you don't seem to understand your position. You are property of this house! You have no right to complain even if you are killed!"

"Yes... I'm sorry..."

"Hmph, don't think crying will help you."

Then Grail put his hand on Eifa's shoulder.

"Well, I don't intend to blame you that much. As long as you understand... that's fine... Yes, come to my room tonight. I'll give you a thorough education about your status as a slave."

Eifa lowered her head and shrank back.

Wow, the pervert finally shows his true colors. Come to think of it, he's already fourteen...

Moreover, he's not just bluffing. He's really gone too far, brother.

"Hey, you're being noisy in the hallway this early in the morning, Grail."

Unable to hold back, I stepped in.

As expected, my brother glared at me.

"What? What do you want, Seika... This is none of your business. Get lost!"

"I need to talk to Eifa. Hurry up with your lecture."

"What's with that... way of speaking!"

With a curse, Grail raised his fist.

I caught the fist, which was about to hit my cheek, with my palm.

We remained in a stalemate.

"...Tch!"

Eventually, Grail forcefully pulled his arm back.

"Remember this, you failure!"

And he stomped away.

I sighed.

He put quite a bit of force into it, but did it hurt? Still, losing to an eleven-year-old in arm strength is a bit much...

Even with optimized ki flow, my physique should be appropriate for my age.

"Thank you, Seika-kun."

Eifa came over and said that.

Still, I can somewhat understand Grail's feelings.

I won't say specifically why... but, you know, her chest.

This girl is a year older than me, so she should be twelve or thirteen, but what's going on? Could it be a characteristic of the people in this world? But looking at the maids in the mansion, it's not necessarily the case...

No, let's not go any further with this.

"You're welcome. By the way, Eifa, I actually have a favor to ask—"

"Sorry! Come with me for a moment!"

And with that, Eifa grabbed my hand and ran off.

What's going on?