The Kamisato Estate was unusually quiet that morning.
Ayato woke up earlier than usual, brushing his hair in front of the mirror. Gardevoir and Ninetales were already awake, watching him with calm affection.
A soft knock came at the door.
"Young Master," a gentle voice called. "May I enter?"
Ayato smiled.
"Come in, Grayfia."
The door slid open, revealing Grayfia Lucifuge in a pristine Kamisato-style maid uniform. Her silver hair flowed smoothly down her back, and her crimson eyes glowed softly in the morning light.
"Good morning, Young Master," she said, bowing elegantly. "Your schedule today includes breakfast, reading time, and a play session with Lady Cynthia, Lady Caitlin, and Lady Juniper."
Ayato blinked internally.
System… how did you even know they would come?
But honestly… he didn't doubt that the girls would visit.
Grayfia stepped forward and gently adjusted Ayato's collar.
"I will be by your side today," she said softly. "If you need anything, simply call for me."
Ayato nodded.
"I'm happy to have you here."
And for the first time, Grayfia's lips curved slightly in a faint but genuine smile.
The Girls Arrive
As always, the three girls arrived early—each for their own reason.
Cynthia – 10 years old
Carried her Gible, face full of excitement.
Juniper – 11 years old
Held three books and a notebook, ready to "teach" Ayato something.
Caitlin – 10 years old
Floated on a psychic cushion, calm but eager.
They pushed the door open at the same time—
"AYATO—!"
And they froze.
Right in front of them stood Grayfia Lucifuge.
Beautiful. Elegant. Mature.Like a goddess descended from the moon.
Cynthia's jaw dropped.Juniper's glasses slid down her nose.Caitlin's psychic cushion wobbled.
"W–Who is that…?" Cynthia whispered.
"She's… stunning…" Juniper muttered.
Caitlin's eyes shimmered a little."…A fairy…"
Ayato coughed lightly.
"Girls, this is Grayfia. My maid."
Cynthia crossed her arms, trying not to look impressed.
"Hmph. I-I guess she's… nice-looking."
Juniper nodded stiffly.
"She definitely has… elevated facial symmetry."
Caitlin just whispered:
"…Pretty."
Grayfia bowed respectfully.
"It is a pleasure to meet you three. I am Grayfia Lucifuge, Young Master Ayato's personal maid."
Personal maid.
Those words hit the three girls like a thunderbolt.
Cynthia stepped forward."W-Wait. Personal maid? For Ayato?"
Grayfia nodded.
"Yes. I assist him in all matters."
Juniper's eye twitched.
"A-All… matters?"
Caitlin blinked rapidly, cheeks turning pink.
Ayato sighed internally.
This is going to become a problem… isn't it?
The Competitiveness Intensifies
As they gathered around Ayato, Grayfia stood calmly behind him like a silent guardian.
When Ayato reached for a book—
Grayfia handed it to him immediately.
When Ayato sneezed—
Grayfia passed him a cloth instantly.
When Ayato sighed—
Grayfia poured him tea.
The girls watched, horrified.
Cynthia grabbed Ayato's other hand.
"Hey! I can do that too!"
Juniper shoved a berry into Ayato's other hand.
"Look! I'm useful!"
Caitlin hovered closer, hugging his arm.
"I'm closest…"
Grayfia blinked, expression unmoved.
"…Understood."
She stepped closer—placing herself directly behind Ayato.
Cynthia gasped.
"This woman is strong!"
Juniper nodded vigorously.
"She's dangerous!"
Caitlin whispered:
"She's beautiful…"
Ayato pinched the bridge of his nose.
"This is exhausting…"
Grayfia's First Lesson
Later in the afternoon, Grayfia guided Ayato to the garden for reading lessons.
Cynthia, Juniper, and Caitlin followed like jealous ducklings.
Ayato opened a book.
Cynthia leaned on his left shoulder.Juniper leaned on his right.Caitlin sat in his lap.
Ayato: "…"
Grayfia watched calmly, hands folded.
"Young Master," she said softly, "should I remove them?"
The girls froze.
Cynthia jumped up."N-No, that's fine! We're just—uh—studying!"
Juniper nodded aggressively."Y-Yes, we're helping him!"
Caitlin hugged Ayato tighter."I'm staying…"
Grayfia blinked once.
"…As you wish."
Ayato laughed softly despite himself.
Grayfia's Private Words
At sunset, after the girls had left noisily, Grayfia approached Ayato.
"Young Master."
"Yes?"
"I have observed… that you inspire strong feelings in those around you."
Ayato coughed.
"…It's not my fault."
Grayfia knelt slightly, lowering herself to his eye level.
"Regardless, I will support you. Whether in managing admirers, guarding your safety, or helping you grow stronger."
Ayato blinked.
"That means… a lot. Thank you, Grayfia."
Her eyes softened.
"It is my honor… Young Master Ayato."
With a powerful new maid, jealous childhood friends, and a rapidly awakening system…
Ayato's daily life had just become much, much more chaotic.