An: Sorry it's been so long since I updated. I have a lot of stories in the works but have been distracted reading FanFic for Harry Potter. I am thinking of doing a cross over but it seems like a huge project if I want to do it right. In the meantime I have finally completed the sequel (?) for this story and will try to get a second part out for one of my other one-shots, there have been a few requests for a continuation of 'Puppy Princess' and I am still thinking of where I could go with that. Of course I also have my sequel to 'Check the Gate' on the back burner also and may upload the first chapter of that soon, it will be significantly shorter than the original story, I think?

Thanks for reading, reviews are always appreciated BTW I made some tweaks to the first part so please go back and read that and let me know if the few tweaks helped. This second part isn't as humorous as the first, I had to go a bit more serious as I had to find a way to develop the relationship between Fate/Nanoha/new OC.

No ownership of MGLN being claimed, just having fun.

~"~"~"~"~"~

Unfortunately Chrono would have been unable to remove Vespers from being Fate's senior Enforcer. Fortunately the physical damage he took as a result of Nanoha's tantrum was significant enough to have him removed from active duty for quite some time. But Fate now had the problem of finding a replacement senior who wouldn't run screaming when the position was offered. The mission to secure the lost logia on Alpha Hamal had to be completed and now that they had sufficient knowledge on how to secure it properly they needed to get back into space.

Chrono went to every old friend he had within the Enforcers and got mostly polite refusals but occasionally someone would flat out tell him they wouldn't work with the White Devil's lover if it meant they would be on the receiving end of her wrath if she felt they had somehow insulted her girlfriend. Fate's potential career as an Enforcer was now at a standstill, she had to complete her apprenticeship otherwise she'd have to find another career path.

"Hey Admiral Christos, hey wait up!" an increasingly desperate Chrono called out to squat man of sixty.

The man turned and seeing the young admiral stopped with a grin, "'ello Chrono me boy, how can aye be of service to ya?"

Huffing he pleaded with the older man, "I need a favor, it's for my sister Fate."

The old man's smile faded, "Aye heard about the rumpus that girly of 'ers caused. Aye take it yer looking fir a replacement partner fir 'er."

"Yes sir, I was hoping you might be willing, I know you are technically retired from field service but you're my last hope."

"Hmm, Aye'd like to help ya if aye could but the medics won't let out of the building anymore. But aye do know of another girly who might help ya. 'er name is Blanca Weathers, top notch gal, aye don't think even yer White Devil gal could spook 'er. Tell 'er aye recommended 'er fir the job and she'll take it."

"Thank you sir, I will. You have no idea how much this means to me and my family," a jubilant Chrono saluted the old man then set off to find his best last hope.

~"~"~"~"~"~

Nanoha learning what her actions had caused was guilt stricken once more, and was worried Fate was going to start to hate her for what she had brought upon her. It was bad enough her injuries had led to Fate failing her Enforcers exam two times due to her concentrating all her attention on helping her recover, now once again she was getting in the way of her dreams. Fate listened to her brother and couldn't help feeling slightly annoyed with how cowardly these so called elite mages were being, really to be scared to work with her over a slightly temperamental sixteen year old girl?

Fate was lounging on Nanoha's couch waiting for the girl to come off duty so they could go out to eat, she wasn't really worried about her future career, she knew one way or the other she'd complete her apprenticeship even if Chrono-nii and Lindy-oka had to dig some fossil out of a closet in headquarters to monitor her from the ship. It wasn't like she needed the extra magical power or even the hands on supervision anymore, hell the last two proctors she'd had before Vespers depended on her even more than he had.

Nanoha came into the room and found Fate dozing on her couch, dressed in a delicious outfit of civilian clothing. Her stomach did flip flops every time she opened her door and found the blonde still there, how soon would it be before she decided being with her wasn't worth it. Leaning over the back of the couch she pressed a soft kiss on her lips, trying to imprint the feeling into mind and soul before she lost this most precious privilege. Feeling the kiss Fate's mouth twitched into a smile and a hand went up to trail through soft auburn hair.

Pulling away Nanoha whispered, "I'm sorry I'm so late training went over, do you still want to go out or would you rather stay in, I can cook for us?"

Fate could see the stress and uneasiness in Nanoha's face and eyes sighed, "Nanoha, come here. Sit with me for a bit."

The girl stiffened at the words, 'oh god this is too soon, I wanted to at least make love to her once,' her lustful mind thought morosely. "Okay," she nearly whimpered coming around the couch she sat at the far end of the couch from her girlfriend.

Seeing Nanoha so guilt ridden and distant from her made Fate growl, leaning over she pulled the girl over to her and placed her on her lap. Anger flashed in Fate's eyes when Nanoha tried to pull away, tightening her hold she then pressed her mouth to hers in a hard and possessive kiss. When she finally felt Nanoha relax and respond she loosened her hold and brushed her thumb across her cheek to brush away the tears now flowing. Pulling away she sighed and pressed her forehead to hers, "Nanoha, please stop this, I love you, nothing is ever going to change that."

Sobbing now she pressed her face into the crook of Fate's neck holding her tightly as the blonde rubbed her back soothingly. Calming a bit she hiccupped, "I sorry Fate-chan, I'm so sorry, I keep messing up things for you. I don't deserve you."

"Takamachi Nanoha don't you ever say that again! I swear to god I will spank you if I ever hear those words again," Fate said in her sternest voice pulling the girl's face away from her neck so they could look into each eyes.

There was no recrimination, no doubts in her beautiful burgundy eyes, just a fierce determination and soul searing love. Nanoha felt the lead weight on her heart shift then fall away, smiling brilliantly before leaning in to properly reciprocate her love. The kiss grew heated quickly as Fate's hands roamed up and down her back, gliding over her taut bottom, pulling her flush to her body, gasping, "I love you Nanoha, please don't ever doubt that."

Nanoha began to kiss and nip at Fate's jaw then down her porcelain neck, sucking at the pulse point until a red mark formed, claiming Fate for all to see then pulled away to give the bruised skin a soothing lick and declare haughtily in the blonde's ear, "Mine."

The blonde groaned at the pressure and word then decided to take things up a notch sliding her hands forward to begin unbuttoning the thick uniform jacket keeping her from Nanoha's delicious form. Feeling the jacket come undone Nanoha shucked it off quickly then ripped her button up shirt and under shirt off without even trying to undo a single button the rough sound of fabric tearing could be heard.

Seeing the lacy orange bra that complimented the strawberries and cream complexion of her lover burgundy eyes darkened with desire. Undoing the clasp and pushing away the offending fabric she took hold of the full breasts in her hands and began to tease and massage the tender flesh. Cute little mewling noises escaped Nanoha's throat as Fate clamped her mouth onto one and began to suckle the nipple passionately.

Nanoha felt like she was about to come apart at the seams, thrusting her hips into Fate's as the pleasure built to an unbearable pitch. Holding the blonde head tight to her chest she tried to beg, "Please, please Fate-chan, ah…I need…"

Hearing the desperation makes the blonde smile, she has wanted to make love to Nanoha for years and now that they are together it should have happened well before tonight but every time they had started getting in the mood something interrupted them. Calls they had to take, visitors who couldn't be ignored (damn Hayate) then the guilt over the Vespers rumpus began to take a toll on Nanoha and she would stiffen as if she was unsure about the rightness of them being together. NO more, Fate moved her hands on Nanoha's waist then stood up with her held tight to her by the hips. Feeling herself being lifted Nanoha wrapped her legs around Fate allowing her to carry her to the bedroom. The full sized bed beckoned and Fate gently settled her Nanoha on the edge and went to her knees to remove finish undressing her lover.

Pulling away skirt and panties at once then pulling Nanoha's legs apart so she could finally reach her prize, Fate stared at the glistening flower dripping nectar. Dipping her head to taste, first with a tentative lick eliciting a sigh and shiver, emboldened Fate slipped her tongue through her folds lapping up the sweetness. Nanoha's hips immediately began bucking and her hands fisted the sheets, she wanted this for so long, had dreamed of this. In a daze Nanoha moaned her lover's name over and over, begging for more, begging for her to not stop, urging her lover on. Fate redoubles her action finding the hard nub of pleasure and licked around it before sucking it into her mouth with a hard pull. Nanoha screamed and came hard with a rush of fluid.

Fate lapped at her clenching opening drinking in her sweetness starting Nanoha on her way to her next sexual peak. Once finished she pulled back and began to slid her fingers up and down the wet slit, teasing the engorged flesh. Dipping her fingers into her opening gently first shallowly then progressively deeper as Nanoha growled, "Don't tease me!"

Pushing her hand forward fast and hard she broke through the barrier blocking her way. The gasp of pain made Fate stop and nearly pull out but Nanoha sat up and caught her hand, "Don't stop, I need you inside me. Please keep going."

Looking into the sapphire eyes she'd die for and seeing the need and love there she stood up to catch her lips in a hard kiss before pumping her fingers in and out bringing her little devil to her second climax. When Nanoha came down from her second high she saw Fate sitting on the bed looking down at her still fully dressed and with a smug look on her face. The blonde's smirk widened at the pouting look on Nanoha's face, "Something wrong Nano-love? I think we should get…um dressed for dinner, it's getting late."

Growling, "Not fair Fate-chan, I didn't even get to touch you!"

Leaning over the auburn haired beauty to kiss her then whispered, "Oh and what's stopping you from touching me?"

Nanoha suddenly shy in the face of Fate's boldness asked quietly, "May I touch you?"

Seeing the hesitation Fate sighed before kissing her once more then said huskily, "I belong to you, all of me. You can touch me anytime you want…" then smiling naughtily, "wherever you want."

~"~"~"~"~"~

Fate awoke at six am when a call came in from her brother, rubbing sleep from her eyes she was about to answer the call when she felt a draft. Looking down the actions of the night before flooded her mind and turned her a remarkable shade of red. Gripping the sheet she began to frantically search the surrounding area of the bed for her clothing. The chirping noise of the call and the tossing of the bed awoke Nanoha who opened her eyes to the very naked back of her lover. Nanoha immediately sent the call to voicemail and pounced on her prey.

Feeling the very warm, not to mention very naked body of Nanoha pressing against her back nearly made Fate fall off the bed with a nose bleed. It was one thing to do things in the darkened room at night but the room was now bright and any number of people would be looking for them soon if they didn't get out of bed soon. Stammering, "Na…na…nanoha, please we need to get dressed."

The only response she got was the feeling of lips pressing to the hollow of her neck and kissing her before the delightful mouth opened to bite the sensitive skin. She moaned at the touch and felt soft hands run up her sides then grasp her breasts tenderly. No longer able to hold herself up on her elbow she collapsed back onto the bed giving her predator more scope for her attack. She was so far gone after a few more nips and kisses she didn't even bother to try to wonder why her brother had tried to call her at such an ungodly hour on a weekend.

~"~"~"~"~"~

Two hours later they found out rather rudely when a brusque woman of twenty began knocking loudly and insistently on Nanoha's door. Pulling on clothes quickly the pair stumbled out of the bed and pushing her hair out of her face Fate opened the door. The woman at the door was of middle height, stood ramrod straight, her full figure dressed impeccably in the black uniform of an Enforcer.

Steel grey eyes took in the rumpled appearance of the two young women before her and in a coolly professional voice asked, "Which of you is Fate T Harlaown?"

Fate swallowed hard, the woman was more imposing then Signum and she suddenly felt like the nine year old girl she had been when she had first faced off with that Amazon. Clearing her voice, "I am, ma'am."

The woman looked her over as if she had seen better Enforcer candidates under her boot. "Well Junior Enforcer Harlaown why are you not ready for duty? I had your brother call you to inform you of my arrival."

"Uh, uh I slept through the call ma'am, I'm sorry. If you'll just give me ten minutes I'll be ready to go," Fate said timidly.

The woman nodded her white blonde head and Fate fled to the bedroom for the fastest wash up and dressing known to man. Nanoha looked over the woman and was quietly impressed, she sure as hell knew how to get a person moving. In an effort of friendliness she offered, "Good morning, I'm Takamachi Nanoha, can I get you a cup of coffee or something to eat?"

The woman looked her up and down before replying flatly, "No thank you Cpt. Takamachi, we have to be in a meeting with senior staff in," looking down at her watch, "twenty minutes."

Fate came out of the bedroom a few minutes later apparently having used her sonic moves to get through her morning ablutions in record time. She also had taken the time to also listen to her brother's message and was now looking at the woman warily.

"Junior Enforcer Harlaown ready for duty Enforcer Weathers," she said smartly before saluting her.

"Very good, at least I know now you're fast. Let's go we have work to do," the woman nodded her farewell to Nanoha and turned on her heel to walk out the door.

Fate gave Nanoha a fleeting kiss on the cheek and rushed off after the woman without saying a work.

~"~"~"~"~"~

Fate didn't return to the dorm that night, nor did she answer any of the calls Nanoha made. The next day when Fate wasn't home by dinner time she tried to open a telepathic link and found no response, this was a first, if Fate was still on planet she should still be able to reach her. In desperation she called Chrono and when Amy answered instead she decided to ask anyway, "Hi Amy-san, I was wondering if you know where Fate-chan is? I haven't seen her since her new senior came to get her yesterday morning and none of my calls are getting through."

Amy gave her a pained look, "Uh I take it that you don't know then, she left on the Aquila this morning. That woman is a terror, Enforcer Weathers I mean, I swear she is the biggest hardass I've ever met, and I've met quite a few."

Shocked, "What! How…how…um I thought there was more planning needed and supplies to be loaded. Fate-chan didn't even come back for her stuff, what will she do without her duffel?"

"Oh once it was known Wonder Woman was involved everyone became remarkably streamlined and efficient. I swear I have never seen anyone frighten people the way she does, she makes your White Devil mode look like a hissing kitten. And she's like that 24-7, remarkable," Amy said shaking her head.

Chrono stepped into view and seeing Nanoha gave her a sympathetic smile, "Hey Nanoha-chan, sorry about not getting to you earlier I was down at the dock and hustling like mad to finalize everything, they didn't even have final approval before they pulled out, as soon as Admiral St Claire knew that woman was going to be aboard he pulled up stakes. Muttered something about the faster they got there the faster they could get back. I really didn't know what I was getting into when I requested Weathers cover for Vespers, I almost wish he wasn't in a full body cast now."

Rubbing her head Nanoha could only agree, they shared a few more bits of information and scurrilous gossip about the Enforcer now in charge of Fate's final apprenticeship mission. Nanoha went to sleep that night fearful in a whole new way, she wasn't scared Fate would fall for this women but she was afraid that she might break her. Snuggling into Fate's pillow to breath in her faint scent she tried to push all the terrifying thoughts of that woman squashing Fate's growing self confidence under her insanely high level of expectations, much like another woman had seven years ago.

~"~"~"~"~"~

Fate was running for her life, how the hell a woman classed three mage ranks below her could have her on the ropes so easily was beyond her understanding. Even sparring with Signum wasn't this hard, she couldn't understand how she was able to avoid her spells, break her strongest binds and then fling powerful bombardment spells back at her with the ferocity she had only ever seen from Nanoha.

When the bell chimed ending this round she nearly collapsed on the ground in sheer relief, using Bardiche as a crutch she made her way to the benches and sank down gratefully. The tow-headed woman came over and sat down next her, there was no smugness on her face, it was just as impassive as it had been throughout their spar. "Enforcer Weathers how do you do it? I haven't seen anyone as good as you, why aren't you the "Ace of the Navy," I sure as hell don't think I would last long in a real battle with you."

The woman laughed hollowly, "That's because you are a real mage, I am what they call a witch. I use much of the same skills as mages but the foundation of my magical use is different. As for fighting against mages I've developed a way to collect the spent mana of mages and turn it against them, much like your girlfriend's Starlight Breaker."

Fate blinked in wonderment, "You're really a witch? My god I didn't think there were any left, your magical linage was nearly destroyed in the Saint Kaiser's Wars. Would you be willing to talk with one of my friends when we get back he'll want to interview you for the Infinity Library's records?"

The woman was taken aback, she usually received scorn from mages, this girl wanted to introduce her to her friends and actually thought someone would care enough about her heritage to document it. Fate could see the woman was surprised but she wasn't sure why, "Um if I offended you in any way I'm sorry, I know it can be hard to be different, if you don't want to I'd understand."

Blanca was not used to people being concerned with how she felt, she had to slog her way into the Enforcers, fighting tooth and nail for her position and still knew at any moment if she made a misstep she'd be thrown under the bus without compunction. "What do you know about being different mage?"

Fate laughed at the question, she had been sure everyone knew what she was, she hadn't tried to hide it, "Artificial mage, I'm a clone."

"What!" the woman screamed jumping up and looking at the smiling blonde, "I thought you were the daughter of Admiral Lindy Harlaown. Where the hell would she have found an artificial mage?"

"You really don't pay much attention to rumors and gossip around headquarters do you?" Fate said her smile turning rather sad.

Blinking at the strange statement, "No of course not, I have better things to do."

"Well if you had you would know all about me, its big news to some especially since I'm also a convicted criminal."

The tow headed woman shook her head, "What the hell are you?"

"The short story is I was created to resurrect my clone progenitor, my creator set me to collect lost logia for her in attempt to access Al Hazard. That's why I ended up on Non-administrated World 97 or Earth and met Nanoha. Lindy-oka and Chrono-nii came when our fighting over the jewel seeds nearly caused a dimensional rift on Earth, Nanoha convinced them I wasn't evil before I was captured. Ha-ah she was the one to do it too knocking me out with her first Starlight Breaker I might add. Considering I nearly killed her a few times I don't know how she was ever able to see the good in me but she did and it made it easier for others to do the same. After I was in custody Lindy-oka talked with me and after some time together we grew closer and she offered to adopt me, after thinking about it for a while and Nanoha's support I agreed."

"You mean you didn't immediately jump at the chance to be adopted?" Blanca asked with disbelief.

Shaking her head, "I to learn to be a separate person from my progenitor's memories I was given, I really had to be Fate, an individual, before I could ever hope to be a proper daughter for her. I was also scared of trusting people, everything I knew up to that point of my life had been a lie, the only person other than my familiar I even felt the slightest trust towards was Nanoha."

Fate's tone whenever she spoke of the auburn haired girl was gentle and tinged with warmth it made Blanca wonder. After this talk the two partners grew closer, it was a slow process but the more the witch learned of the girl the more she could see she was a trustworthy person who would not betray a friend, a trait learned from her precious Nanoha. It became harder and harder for the reclusive woman to hold back her newly formed attachment to the blonde. Despairing she thought the girl had to be the most perfect person in creation and wishing her dedication and love was focused on herself instead of the inestimable Takamachi Nanoha.

~"~"~"~"~"~

When they arrived at Alpha Hamal Blanca no longer felt it necessary to double check every little thing, she knew Fate would not allow anything go wrong, would not slack off, would never put them in a disadvantage position. Fate recorded her latest video mail to Nanoha before sealing the disc and placing it in the outgoing mail. She told Nanoha she loved her, would be careful not to exceed her limits, and her hopes of being home again soon. She did not say goodbye but see you soon, she never wanted to say goodbye as it sounded so final and nothing would keep her from returning to Nanoha's side.

The ground troops cleared the outer sentries for the abandoned fortress which housed the lost logia, everything was going smoothly and no casualties had been reported. Fate's plan was remarkable and now they were able to take down the next level of physical defenses and enter the keep. Sending out the different platoons to secure each section of the grounds once the all clear was given then the Enforcers moved in to break through the magical reinforced gates and descended into the murky depths of the fortress's vaults.

They had cleared the magical animal sentries which were activated by their presence breaking out of their stone cocoons. Terrible beasts with fangs and claws or talons and becks that relentlessly attacked the pair. Both came out unscathed and proceeded forward finding the pulsing crystal lost logia set in a stone altar. Fate was about to proceed to seal the powerful device when Blanca caught her arm, "Fate."

Turning to look at the woman had had come to see as a friend and trusted partner, "Yes Blanca-san?"

The woman looked into burgundy eyes that showed nothing but concerned interest, no loathing, no spite. Blanca pulled her forward and tried to kiss her. Fate at first didn't know what she had intended but once their faces came closer she moved to break the tight hold on her and stepped back from the older girl. Confused and a bit disappointed, "What do you think you're trying to do?"

Flushed red with embarrassment and anger at herself Blanca suddenly wanted nothing more than to disappear. Fate knew they would need to speak about this but now was not the time she turned away and headed back towards the lost logia to seal it. She had set up and had nearly had everything ready when the angry flutter of wings was heard. Fate looked up and saw a raptor like bird-creature five times bigger than the ones they had fought originally. It began its dive on Weathers, bare seconds were all the woman had and she was distracted by her own turbulent emotions.

Fate instantly moved into her sonic form and pushed herself to the limit catching the woman in her grasp to push her out of harm's way. The bite of sharp talons tore through her thin Barrier Jacket and the flesh of her back was torn into by three razor sharp talons. The pair fell ungracefully in a tumble as Fate hadn't been able to control her stop properly through the pain haze. Blanca saw the creature and immediately began to fight it and block its further attack on the pair. Blood ran from Fate's wounds pooling around her, the sharp pain bringing back memories of her creator's whippings. Knowing the creature would deactivate the moment the lost logia was sealed she picked up Bardiche and with the remaining strength she had fired off the sealing spell before blacking out from the depletion of mana and blood.

~"~"~"~"~"~

When Fate awoke she was in the ship's sick bay and Weathers was sitting in the chair next to the bed. The normally impeccable woman was disheveled and clearly had been crying. Fate reached out for the hand that was resting next to her hand, croaking out in a dry voice, "Blanca."

The woman heard and snapped her eyes open, looked down at their joined hands and thinking she was the one to initiate the contact tried to pull away. Despite her weakness Fate held fast to the retreating hand, "Please stop, its okay I'm the one who took your hand."

The tow headed woman's face crumpled and she shook her head, "No let me go, I'm a horrible person, a god damn wicked witch just like everyone says."

Fate squeezed her hand then coughed to clear her throat, "Blanca-chan you are not a wicked witch, you are my friend," seeing the look of disbelief on Blanca's face, "yes you are. I love Nanoha and will never stray from her but I still want us to be friends even if you did try to cross the line with me a bit. I know when one is lonely sometimes we can let our feelings run out of control. So if you are willing can we both try to forget the whole thing and let things go back to how they were?"

"No I nearly got you killed with my stupidity, I let my emotions distract me during a mission, I should be court-martialed and sent to the brig."

"Hey, we all make mistakes, we are more or less only human," Fate twitched her a smile thinking back on a few hushed whispered insults she'd received from unaccepting crew members.

Tears once again flowing the older girl looked at her flabbergasted, "How the hell can you joke about this? This is all my fault, you should be demanding my resignation, hell my head on a pike."

"Do you really think you are the first person who's tried to steal a kiss from me? Besides if I can forgive Vita-chan for being distracted while on duty and nearly allowing Nanoha to be killed I think I can forgive you for the same."

"Are you sure you're not crazy, they say artificial mages normally have cognitive issues," the girl half joked half wailed at the incredible scope of forgiveness the girl had.

"Oh I'm fine cognitively, all my tests have shown me to be quite bright and my emotional stability is solid as stone thanks to Nanoha, Chrono-nii, Lindy-oka, and all my other friends' support. Besides you shouldn't be surprised, I would be the last person in the multiverse to deny a person a second chance. After all I'm on my second chance and it was only after we stumble that we really learn how to walk."

Fate squeezed the hand in hers again, "Let's be friends properly this time. If you can respect my relationship with Nanoha then I swear I will always be your friend and to help you in any way I can."

Choking back a sob from the gratitude and relief, "I would really like that Fate."

~"~"~"~"~"~

When the Aquila arrived back in dock again a month later Fate's wounds had closed but it still pained her and left her nearly immobile. Once she got to Shamal she hoped the tight pain in her back from the fresh scars could be eased and would soon be fully healed. The short haired blonde boarded the ship and through the use of the transporter had her recalcitrant patient whisked her off to her office for a full check up. Upon arriving in the medical offices the young blonde immediately saw her mother and Arf sitting in chairs awaiting her arrival.

"Mom, Arf it's great to see you both, don't worry about the wounds, just a few scratches Shamal will have me patched up in no time," she tried to gloss over with a winning smile.

"Fate, don't try to pull the wool over my eyes on this one, I know how bad this was and once Shamal is done with you I'm taking you straight home for bed rest," Lindy huffed at her daughter.

"But Mom what about Nanoha… and the others. I want to see them," Fate pouted as Shamal made short work of divesting her of her patient's gown and bandages.

Shamal deciding to play dirty poked the wound a bit more forcefully then she normally would to check its flexibility and texture. Fate let out a squeak of pain and turned with tears in her eyes, "Geez Shamal do you really have to poke me so hard? That hurt like the devil."

Arf barked a laugh, "You would know. Your poor little devil is waiting for you out in the hall, don't worry Lindy-oka and I weren't going to steal you away without giving you a chance to see each other."

Lindy smiled at the tease, "Quite right, the gods know I wouldn't want to be on her bad side. Speaking of which where is that partner of yours? She should have come in with you for this check up."

Fate was now laying on her stomach, a position she was growing to hate, as Shamal was rubbing magically infused ointment on her back and using her healing spells to quicken the healing process. Groaning at the relieving tension of her back, "She was going to be escorted off ship by the admiral for the hearing. I have to stay for that, I don't want her punished severely, she's suffered enough."

All three women looked at each other with confusion, sure Fate had asked for her superior to be let off but they hadn't known how serious to take the request. Lindy decided to cut to the heart of the matter, "Fate dear, the woman tried to take advantage of you and allowed you to be seriously wounded while on duty through her own inattention she needs to be dealt with properly."

Swinging her feet to the floor and pulling on her uniform blouse, "No, she made a mistake, she deserves a second chance. Mom when I stopped her she didn't try to force herself on me. Maybe her timing was a bit off but once a person is rejected you can understand how they could be distracted."

"Give me one good reason why she should be, from everything I've heard about the woman she deserves to be brought down a few notches," her mother replied hotly.

"Fine, she's a witch who has no friends or family and I was the first person to reach out to her and she let her feeling run away with her. And I do mean a Witch, she's not a mage, that's why she has always been so hostile with others, she was reacting to all the hostility flung at her all her life."

Taken aback with this outburst, "We didn't know about her magical background, it was sealed. Oh my…but Fate still she does need some kind of reprimand for all this," Lindy tried again.

"She has already been punished, she took on extra duties, has apologized to me and has agreed to an official reprimand to her record, please just let this go."

"Fate really," her mother and Arf exclaimed.

"God, meet her first before you start throwing stones at her, please, give her the benefit of the doubt, you know mom like you did for me originally, like we all did for the Wolkenritters," Fate pleaded looking at her familiar and the two women who had earned her total trust.

~"~"~"~"~"~

When Nanoha learned of Fate's injuries and most of the details of the how's and why's surrounding the event she didn't know how to deal with her turmoil of emotions. Her first thought was to blast the woman the second she saw her but Fate had already requested (multiple times) that she forgive and forget the incident. That had left Nanoha slightly disturbed, did Fate have feelings for her senior Enforcer? God damn it, first the rat and now a witch…a real witch…was moving in on her Fate-chan when she wasn't around to protect her. Is this going to be a pattern?

The office door opened and the first one out was Fate with a seriously determined look on her face which Nanoha normally found irresistible but now left her frozen, was she thinking about that witch? Fate turned and seeing Nanoha her face split into a wide smile and with three quick steps she closed the distance and pulled her into a tight hug. Nanoha scared to hurt her slid her hands up the back of her arms and held her gently at the shoulders before pulling away.

Fate didn't want to let her go and just loosened her grip and kept her hands at Nanoha's waist to hold her close. Leaning her face down she caught Nanoha's lips in a brief but warmly loving kiss, her mother was right behind her so she did her best to restrain herself. Pulling back from the kiss with a sigh, "I missed you so much Nanoha, once I'm done with the hearing I hope you'll come home with us and spend some time with me."

Nanoha started shaking, she was going to the hearing to protect the woman who nearly killed her. Pulling away she tried to restrain the flood of conflicting feelings. In a subdued voice she said, "I'm glad you're back and okay Fate-chan, I need to go back on duty now but I'll come see you again soon."

Fate felt a rush of frustration at this display, god didn't Nanoha trust her? Fate abruptly excused them from the group and pulled Nanoha into an empty examination room. Slamming the door closed and pressing Nanoha against the door with her body she kissed the girl senseless as her hands ran over the body she had missed for three months, six days and two hours. The moaning and gasping noises enticed her to continue as she began to suck at her pulse point and her hands skimmed up her uniform mini-skirt to find her lover's overheated core.

Pushing aside her panties Fate began to rub her swollen nub and reveling in the slickness. She pulled her mouth away from Nanoha's neck long enough to whisper, "I love you, only you. You are the only one I want to touch and to touch me," then she jammed two fingers into her dripping core.

Nanoha arched into Fate's driving hand, her arms wrapped tightly around her neck to hold herself up as her legs now refused to hold her up. Fate's mouth once again covered hers in an attempt to dampen her cries of pleasure. The pounding force, the sheer possessiveness of the kiss left the sapphire eyed girl feeling like she was coming undone. If not for Fate's grip on her surely she would have unraveled and melted away in this searing heat. Then a third finger ploughed into her and she came hard losing her grip on the taller girl and nearly falling if not for the arm that held her tightly.

Fate lowered them both down to the ground and pulled Nanoha onto her lap hiding her face in her sweet smelling hair crying. Hearing the quiet sobs and wetness of her tears Nanoha shifted to hold Fate tightly trying to shush her and calm her lover. "It's okay Fate-chan, oh please don't cry love. Please Fate-chan talk to me."

"I missed you so much and I love you so much but you don't trust me. I was just trying to do the right thing, like you would, like you taught me," the words came out in choking sobs full of pain.

"Oh Fate-chan! I trust you, I do but I can't help being jealous of anyone who tries to get close to you. She tried to kiss you, I know you stopped her and nothing happened between you. But I just hate the idea of anyone trying to touch you, especially when I can't be with you."

"Nanoha she has no friends, no family, she's all alone in the world, I just wanted to be her friend. I wanted her to be happy, I wanted to show her that not everyone is bigoted against witches. I thought if I could just reach her and show her that there are caring people in the world then I could somehow repay the universe for bring you into my life and saving me."

Squeezing her best friend tightly, "Oh Fate-chan, I really don't deserve you in my life, you saved me just as much as I saved you. I was so lonely before you, you complete me, make me feel like I can do anything."

A sharp smack was heard and Nanoha squeaked in shock and pain. Fate's offending hand then rubbed the tender spot as she growled, "I told you I would spank you if I ever heard you say that you don't deserve to be with me again."

Nanoha pulled away and saw a fierce look in burgundy eyes, burning love and determination to reinforce the knowledge that the one place Nanoha belonged was by her side. Cupping her face with her hands Nanoha leaned in for a kiss then pulled back, "I love you Fate-chan. I don't ever want to lose my place by your side. I'm afraid I have become rather greedy when it comes to you but I promise I will work on my jealously."

"Good and I promise I will never do anything to ever make you question my feelings for you. If I do though please Nanoha talk to me about it, I don't want there to ever be a time where you feel insecure," Fate said to her tenderly before kissing her again.

A knock on the door broke them out would have likely been the start of a round two. Groaning Fate called out, "What!"

"Fate-chan you need to get to the hearing, they called for you," Shamal's voice called back muffled.

A deep blush flooded Fate, she had gotten caught up in Nanoha that she had forgotten all about the hearing. Nanoha saw the blush and giggled, "Okay Shamal-sensei we'll be out in just a second."

Nanoha stood up and then helped Fate to her feet before brushing off her clothing and trying to straighten them. Fate decided to help and had to use every ounce of her self control not to do more than help. Nanoha in turn helped Fate straighten her hair which somehow became mussed during their encounter. Finally both presentable again they exited the room to the broad grin of Arf who looked like she was only barely restraining herself from teasing the pair. Lindy and Shamal also had matching smirks but everyone was gracious enough not to say anything but allowed a beet red Fate to take the lead.

The hearing convened and after giving her testimony and the data from Bardiche was reviewed it was clear that though Enforcer Weathers actions were ill thought for the situation there was no attempt to sexually assault her junior. The court took Fate's recommendations and dismissed the accused from the court. Fate greeted her friend and began the rather awkward introductions to her family and girlfriend.

Immediately Weathers bowed and apologized to the assembly, especially to Nanoha. With earnestness, "Captain Takamachi, I must apologize to you most. Fate made it clear many times how she feels for you and I'm afraid I let my emotions carry me away. I have never known anyone like her before and…sigh I just wish I could have someone as wonderful as her in my life."

"Enforcer Weathers I know Fate-chan can be pretty overwhelming, I know from the first time I met her I knew I had to have her in my life no matter what. I'm not happy with what you tried but I can understand loneliness and how it can make one do things they normally wouldn't do. Fate-chan told me a bit about your history and I think the two of you have had similar experiences so it probably made it even easier to get um… wrapped up in her."

"Let's be honest, I let myself get obsessed with her. I've just never experienced friendship before and let things escalate in my head."

Fate blushed at this as Nanoha laughed her signature giggle, "Nyahaha yes it can be very easy to be obsessed with her, I know I'm. We two are not the only ones either, I fear Enforcer Vespers also fell prey to her charms but at least you had the decency to not to try to push yourself on her or lash out at her."

Then Nanoha did something Blanca did not expect, she hugged her. Whispering in her ear, "You are forgiven, just don't try anything like that again or I'll be forced to Starlight Breaker you into oblivion."

Fate blushed harder and covered her face in her hands as her mother and familiar laughed. Well if Nanoha can forgive her who were they to hold a grudge after all if she screws up again a Starlight Breaker is a hell of a lot worse than having a house fall on you.