Chapter 4 – Playful Training and Hidden Growth**
The morning air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of roses from the Gremory estate's gardens. Harsh stretched, feeling energy pulse through his veins. Even at seven, he could sense the subtle currents of magical energy in the courtyard, something few devils his age could notice.
He focused, channeling a small sphere of energy between his hands. The glow was faint, just enough to make the sphere hover in place. *Not much, but it's getting better,* he thought, smiling. *If I keep going, I'll surpass everyone here before long.*
Rias and Sona appeared at the courtyard gate. Rias' fiery crimson hair shimmered in the sunlight as she bounced on her heels, her excitement clear. Sona's calm demeanor contrasted sharply, her eyes quietly studying Harsh.
*"You're getting faster every day,"* Rias exclaimed. *"Soon you'll be able to outmaneuver me!"*
*"Careful not to overexert yourself,"* Sona warned, though her slight smile betrayed her amusement.
Harsh grinned, lowering the energy sphere. *"Don't worry. I know my limits… for now."*
The three spent the morning sparring. Harsh dodged Rias' playful energy blasts with precise movements, predicting her arcs and landing light, controlled counters. To the girls, it looked like natural talent and quick reflexes, but inside, Harsh was running mental simulations, quietly analyzing patterns in their attacks and adjusting his form in real time.
*Interesting… Rias favors wider arcs, Sona keeps her attacks conservative. I can use this to my advantage next time,* he noted silently.
By afternoon, he practiced combining energy projection with minor evasive maneuvers, keeping each strike precise. Sweat beaded on his forehead, but he ignored the fatigue. *Every movement is another piece of preparation.*
When the day wound down, the three sat on the balcony, sharing tea and pastries. The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with shades of crimson and gold. Harsh's eyes scanned the gardens, observing the subtle flow of ambient mana. He made a silent promise to himself: *One day, I'll be ready for the ceremony. One day, no one will be able to stop me.*
Rias nudged him gently. *"You've been quiet today. Planning something?"*
*"Just thinking,"* he said with a casual smile. *"There's always something to learn."*
Sona tilted her head. *"You have a sharp mind, Harsh. But don't forget to enjoy your childhood."*
*I am enjoying it… in my own way,* Harsh thought, his mind running through countless strategies, simulations, and improvements—all unseen, all secret.
As night fell, Harsh lay in bed, mentally reviewing the day. Every dodge, every energy fluctuation, every prediction was cataloged silently. *The ceremony will be mine… and they won't see me coming.*