[ ] = Device Talking
Italic = Thought, Telepathy
Bold = Spell's name
Chapter 7:
Hayate is sleeping in one of Arthra's cabin. They went to the medical bay at the HQ, the doctor said that she is absolutely fine, she's just exhausted. So everyone decided to do the debriefing on Arthra.
Location: Arthra
-Hayate's cabin-
The Wolkenritter is taking care of Hayate. Reinforce is also there, watching her mistress sleep with a peaceful expression. But despite the success of the operation, there are some bad news.
"As I thought… The defense program has been stopped, but the data is still incredibly disfigured." Reinforce explains.
"I… the Tome of the Night Sky… will soon generate a new defense program, and probably will go out of control again…" Reinforce said sadly.
"As I thought…" Signum said with a downcast expression.
"Can't you repair it?" Shamal asked with a little hope in her voice.
"Impossible, even though the administration program lies within me, but the information from the actual tome itself has been erased." Reinforce shook her head.
"So you cannot repair it because you don't know the original state of the data?" Zafira asked while in his wolf form.
"Correct." Reinforce replied.
"…Will mistress Hayate be alright?" Signum asked.
"She is totally fine, I am no longer devouring her, and her linker core is operating within normal parameters. Even her disabled legs will also heal in time." Reinforce stated.
"Then… I guess we're ready…" Shamal smiled sadly.
"Yes, I no longer have any regrets." Signum smiled.
"Without the defense program, the elimination of the tome of the night sky should be easy… if it is eliminated then it won't go on the berserk again… thought we'll be gone with it, in exchange." Vita closed her eyes.
"I'm sorry, Vita…" Signum said sadly.
"Why are you apologizing? It's fine… really… everyone knew all along that there was a chance this could happen…" Vita just looked at Hayate with sad eyes.
"No, you are wrong."
"Huh?" The Wolkenritter faces towards Reinforce.
"You four will remain… the only one to go… will be me…" Reinforce stared at them with sad eyes.
-Arthra Dining Area-
"Elimination of the Tome?!" Arf asked.
"Why?! Didn't we already destroy its defense program?" Nanoha said.
"The Book of Darkne- no, I mean the Tome of the Night Sky's administration program suggested it." Chrono explained.
"You mean the administration program that Nanoha, Fate, and Shu fought?" Arf asked.
"Correct." Chrono replied.
"The defense program was successfully destroyed, but it looks the Tome of the Night Sky will quickly recompile its programs… There's a good chance it'll instantly devoured Hayate this time, as long as it exists the danger will never go away…" Yuuno explained sadly.
"That's why the Tome itself asked to be destroyed now, while there is no defense program." Chrono finished.
"No way…" Nanoha muttered.
"There must be a way… I can think of one but it is pure theoretical…" Shu thought deeply.
"But Signum and the other knights will-" Fate exclaimed.
"No, we shall remain." Signum cut Fate off as Shamal, Zafira, and herself walk up to the group.
"Eh?" Fate muttered.
"It seems that our Guardian Knight program was also released with the defense program." Zafira explained.
"Reinforce said that… she has a certain request for you three…" Shamal looked at Shu, Nanoha, and Fate.
"A request…?" Nanoha muttered.
The group followed Reinforce down to the Uminari City. They also carried Hayate with them, and set her down in one of TSAB-owned homes which are near to the highest point of the entire area.
Location: Uminari City's Mountain Peak
-Hayate's Room-
Hayate is still sleeping, currently inside the house near the mountain's peak. Everyone else has gone to Reinforce's position which is at the peak of the mountain. Vita gently pulls up the cover so that Hayate will stay warm.
"Hayate, your happiness is your greatest happiness. Which is why Reinforce said she would go smiling… even if it's only in your dreams… please watch over her…" Vita smiled sadly as she left the room.
-Mountain's Peak-
The mountain is not high at all, but it gives the view to all entire Uminari City. Snows are falling lightly but the ground is entirely covered in snow.
Nanoha, Fate, and Shu walked up the path and see Reinforce waiting for them at the scenic point.
"Hm? Ah… So you three came." Reinforce smiled at the three.
"Reinforce…san…" Nanoha muttered.
"So, you'll call me by that name now?" Reinforce smiled teasingly.
"Yes…" Nanoha answered in all honesty.
"Do you really want us to be the ones to send you back into the sky?" Fate asked sadly.
"I want to ask this because of who you are… Thanks to you all, I was able to hear mistress Hayate's words. Everything ended before I consumed her and even the Knights can survive. I am eternally grateful… so in the end… I want you three to be the ones to seal me away." Reinforce smiled.
"Do you really have to do this?" Shu asked.
"I don't want to make her unhappy…" Reinforce smiled at the boy.
"Reinforce…" Fate muttered.
"But that's still so sad!" Nanoha shouted.
"One day, you all will surely understand. To meet such a person… to love them deeper than the sea and wish to protect their happiness…" Reinforce smiled.
"…I think already found them… Reinforce." Shu thought as he closed his eyes.
Reinforce and the three little heroes look at the peak's entrance and see the Wolkenritter walking up to them.
"So, shall we get started? This will be the end of the Tome of the Night Sky…" Reinforce smiled as she looks up into the sky.
-With Hayate-
She finally wakes up. She blinked slowly and gently sat up into the upright position.
Suddenly-
"Huh?! Reinforce…" Hayate felt that something is wrong with her child, Reinforce.
-Back to the Group-
The Wolkenritter is looking at the scene. Nanoha, Fate, and Shu is standing on the Belkan magic circle, separated into three corners. Nanoha on Reinforce's right, Fate on Reinforce's left and Shu who is behind the unison device.
"Reinforce… I may have solution for this problem, despite the fact that it is pure theoretical, don't you want to try that out first?" Shu asked with a concern.
"If I still exist… mistress Hayate will never be safe… I am begging you, to have faith on my decision that will best protect her." Reinforce looked back with pleading eyes.
"…I see." Shu muttered sadly as he raises his hand upwards. Nanoha and Fate raise their device in a perfect acute angle. Both their devices are pointed up to the sky near Reinforce.
[Ready to set.] Raising Heart said.
[Method recognized, sealing is now available.] Granzon blinked.
[Stand by.] Bardiche said.
"Yes… I was in all of your care too even for a short while…" Reinforce closed her eyes and smiled.
[Don't worry.] Bardiche replied.
[We will meet again someday.] Granzon blinked.
[Take a good journey!] Raising Heart finished.
"Yes…" Reinforce smiled as she begins the ritual.
Vita just hugged Signum as she returns the hug. Shamal and Zafira is watching with sad eyes. The ritual is about to be completed-
"REINFORCE! EVERYONE!" Everyone turns their head swiftly to the location of the voice. Hayate hastily pushes her own wheelchair as fast as she could to move towards them.
"Hayate-chan!" Shamal shouted.
"Hayate!" Vita is about to run to Hayate.
"Don't move!" Reinforce ordered. Vita stopped abruptly with a concern expression.
"Please don't move… The ritual will end." Reinforce said with a serious expression.
"No! Stop! Reinforce please stop!" Hayate finally reaches their location and stopped in front of Reinforce.
"You don't have to destroy yourself! I will suppress it! You don't have to do this!" Hayate shouted trying to hold back her tears. Shu, Nanoha, and Fate are trying really hard to keep a straight face.
Reinforce looked at Hayate sadly but smiled. "Mistress Hayate… it is fine…"
"No! It's not! It's not fine at all!" Hayate protested.
"I've lived for quite a long time… but in the end, I received a beautiful name and heart from you… The knights will remain by your side along with these three heroes… there is nothing to worry about." Reinforce smiled as she closed her eyes.
"I'm not talking about being worried or anything…" Hayate said with tears.
"So please, I will depart smiling…" Reinforce looks at Hayate with a smiled.
Hayate stopped abruptly trying to come up with reasons to make Reinforce change her decision. "I hate girls who won't do what they're told! I'm your mistress, listen to me! I'll definitely do something about it! I won't let you go out of control! I promised you that didn't I?!"
"You've already magnificently kept that promise." Reinforce replied.
"REINFORCE!" Hayate shouted.
"The duty of the Tome is to protect and eliminate dangers to her mistress, please let me choose the most efficient way of protecting you." Reinforce closes her eyes smiling.
"But…. You've been sad for so long… and you were finally… finally… saved!" Hayate said while openly cry.
"My will shall live on in the knights and your magic. I will always be at your side." Reinforce smiled.
"That's different! That's different, Reinforce!" Hayate shook her head violently as tears don't stop flowing from her eyes.
"People dislike spoiled children. Please be obedient, mistress…" Reinforce said sadly.
"REINFORCE! UGH!" Hayate's wheelchair hit a large bump on the ground. Hayate is sent flying towards Reinforce and collapsed in front of her.
"Hayate…" Shu muttered as he fought down the urge to help her up. Everyone does their best to stay in place.
"Why…? We were supposed to be… we were supposed to be happy from now on!" Hayate said tearfully.
Reinforce slowly walks up to her mistress and gently caress her cheeks.
"It is fine… I'm now the happiest magical tome in the whole wide world!" Reinforce said with the brightest smile on her face.
"Reinforce…." Hayate cried.
"Mistress Hayate, I have one request. When I vanish, I will change into a small powerless fragment of myself. If it's alright with you, do not give my name to that small fragment… but to the new container that will hold your magic in the future… The blessed wind, Reinforce… My soul will surely dwell within it." Reinforce said.
"Rein…force…." Hayate could not stop the tears from flowing.
"Yes, my mistress…." Reinforce smiled as she slowly walks back into the center of the magic circle.
Reinforce looked up into the sky and closes her eyes.
"Reinforce… we shall meet again. I promise." Shu said.
"Indeed young hero… we will meet again." Reinforce replied while smiling.
"Mistress Hayate… Guardian Knights… and you small heroes… Thank you… and… Goodbye!" Reinforce disappears in thousands of silver particles, all of them fly upwards into the sky.
Hayate just widened her eyes and looked down on the ground with a sad expression. The Belkan magic circle disappeared as the elimination of the Tome of the Night Sky is completed.
"Huh?" Hayate saw a small fragment slowly fall down in front of her. She gently grabs it into her hand and hug it near her chest.
"Hayate-chan!" Nanoha ran towards Hayate.
"Hayate!" Vita also follows the suit. Everyone gently help Hayate back on her wheelchair.
"I…" Hayate doesn't know what to say. She is extremely sad that Reinforce is destroyed but happy that the knights and her friends are with her.
"Hayate…" Shu called.
"W-what is it Shu-kun?" Hayate stuttered.
"If there is a way…. To bring her back… will you do it?" Shu asked with seriousness.
"!?" Everyone turns their head to the boy.
"Of course I will!" Hayate shouted.
"Do you really have a way?" Signum asked.
"In pure theory, yes… it is possible." Shu said.
"What do you mean?" Vita asked.
"Let's get to more comfortable place, I will try to explain everything." Shu said.
"Let's talk about this at Hayate's house…" Shamal said.
"Can you give me the coordinates?" Shu requested. Shamal nodded and link the information to Granzon.
[Wormhole Open.] A large wormhole appeared in front of everyone. Signum and Vita looked back in a bit of hesitation, but Shu waves his hand saying: don't worry, just go in.
The group enters the wormhole and re-appeared in front of Hayate's house.
Location: Hayate's House
Everyone sits down in the living room comfortably.
"Please explain about your method." Signum said.
"When Reinforce said that she wants us to seal her, which means to destroy her. Every data is deleted because the administration program is destroyed." Shu explained.
"You do remember that I have a copy of the Tome of the Night Sky's data right?" Shu opens the data terminal and show them the data.
"You mean, that time…" Vita muttered as she recalled that Shu asked Hayate's permission to have a look on the Book of Darkness.
"Right now, Hayate doesn't require any device, because the system itself is bounded within her." Shu looked at Hayate.
"I don't quite understand…" Nanoha said with a troubled expression.
"In short, she is now a living Lost Logia." Shu summarized.
"E-Eh? I am?" Hayate asked.
"Yes, you can still fix and tweak the Guardian Knight system or even make the new book for spell's storage, which comes to the main point." Shu explained.
"When Reinforce is destroyed, not all of her data is deleted." Everyone looked at the boy in shock.
"W-What?!" Shamal exclaimed.
"If you understand the working of programs, when it is deleted or destroyed, it will not delete everything, it will leave a template or sorts behind."
"D-Does that mean, the defense program still exists?!" Signum stuttered with worry.
"No, if the master program is deleted, then the other small programs that are connected to it will be completely annihilated."
"So, what should we do?" Hayate asked softly.
"You can use the data I copied, along with Reinforce's template to construct her back."
"I-Is that even possible?!" Zafira muttered.
"It will be like Trial and Error, since the defense program no longer exists, if we put some wrong data, it will display an error message… in theory that is." Shu explained.
"So you are saying that we can put the old data in and if it doesn't work then just make some data adjustments until it work?" Signum asked.
"That is correct." Shu answered.
"But what if the defense program comes back?!" Vita shouted.
"It is not possible, since every data regarding the defense program is deleted, but if we do bring her back, I'm afraid that not only Reinforce will be back." Shu said seriously.
"E-EH?!"
"The data I copied from you is the old data. Which means it is possible that if we bring Reinforce back, she'll automatically make another defense program. But since the defense program didn't even exist right now, the new conjured defense program will simply separate itself into entirely new identity." Shu explained.
"So, it will automatically disconnect itself from the system?" Fate asked.
"Yes, but I do not know what it will be… it might be this horrendous monster again or entirely new beings…" Shu sighed.
"If I have to fight that thing again to get Reinforce back, I'll do it!" Hayate shouted. The Wolkenritter, Nanoha, and Fate also agreed to help Hayate.
"We have to ask for help, I am not an expert on devices. I can only make theoretical assumptions. Also, we need someone to back us up on this decision." Shu said. If they did release something dangerous into the world, then they might be in a lot of trouble by TSAB.
"I will contact Admiral Lindy regarding this issue." Fate said as she flipped up her phone.
"I know someone who is very good on device! She is Amy-san's friend, Mary-san!" Nanoha exclaimed.
"I believe we should put this project on hold until we get the authority. But at least we should let Mariel-san take a look on Hayate's system I think." Shu said regarding the system check up with Mary.
"Okay…" Hayate is a little bit down, but she will surely bring back Reinforce.
Everyone stayed at Hayate's house for a while. Fate told Lindy about everything, which Lindy replied that she will back them up but she needed to talk to other Admirals first. Hayate and the Wolkenritter have to go to the hospital or else they would get into real trouble, because Dr. Ishida will never let it slide easily. Chrono and Yuuno is reporting to the command, so they don't have time to stay with the group, but Shu contacted them about bringing back Reinforce and stuff. Nanoha also contacted Mariel about checking the data of the Tome of the Night Sky which Shu sent to her. Admiral Graham decided to resign from his position, at first Lotte and Aria argued that he shouldn't, but with shame in his heart he resigned from the Admiral position. Graham said that he will continue to support Hayate in every way such as financial, advice, or even recommendation letters. Other than that, the three are walking back to their respective home.
Location: Uminari City
"I guess... this ends the case…" Nanoha muttered.
Fate and Shu nodded slightly.
"I'm a little sad though…" Nanoha said softly.
"Don't be… like I said, it is possible to bring Reinforce back, we just needed more time and supports." Shu explained as Fate gripped Nanoha's hand lightly.
"Have faith, Nanoha…" Shu smiled.
Fate and Nanoha smiled at Shu.
"I wanted to stop these kinds of things from happening…" Fate muttered.
"You mean the Lost Logia incidents right?" Shu asked.
"Um… I want to become a full-time officer…so I can at least try to stop events like this… or the one that happened with my mother…" Fate said softly.
"You'll do fine… I know you will…" Shu gently grip Fate's another hand.
"U-Uhm!" Fate blushed slightly.
"Nanoha, what about you? What do you want to do?" Shu asked.
"I don't think I could become an officer, but I'm probably going to be working for the Bureau too. I want to convey my way of magic to others…" Nanoha said passionately.
"Heh… Instructor Takamachi Nanoha is it?" Shu teased a bit.
"G-Geez! Don't tease me like that…" Nanoha blushed while pouting.
Fate and Shu laughed at Nanoha's antics.
"What about you Shu-kun?" Nanoha asked. Fate also wants to know what Shu wants to be in the future.
"…I don't really know." Shu answered in all honesty.
"Maybe, you need to find your motivation." Fate suggested.
"What is it that you want to be able to do the most Shu-kun?" Nanoha tried to help Shu figure out his future.
"…What I really want to do… is to protect my precious people." Shu answered.
Fate and Nanoha smiled. As typical of Shu Shirakawa.
"I see, it is Minori-san isn't it?" Nanoha smiled.
"Yes… but it is not only my mother." Shu said.
"Hm?" Fate and Nanoha questioned.
"Did you guys forget? I promised that I will protect both of you…" Shu said while looking at the snowflakes in his hand.
Both Fate and Nanoha have no idea what to respond. They felt…happy? It's just that they are having a strange feeling that they cannot describe. They can easily feel their heartbeats inside their chest.
"Hm? You two, what's wrong?" Shu turns around because Nanoha and Fate stopped walking.
"I-It's nothing!"
"Ahaha~ we're just thinking of something that's all!"Nanoha and Fate waved nervously.
"Ah? Fate?" The three turn around and see Arf walking with a shopping bag in her hand.
"Arf? What are you doing out here?" Fate asked curiously.
"Ah, Admiral Lindy needs some grocery you know? So I volunteered to buy something for her! Are you heading home?" Arf asked.
"Ah, yes! I'll see you later then, Nanoha, Shu!" Fate waved.
"Take care, Fate…" Shu smiled.
"See you tomorrow Fate-chan!" Nanoha smiled.
Fate and Arf waved before walking to the opposite direction.
"Come on Nanoha, I'll walk you home." Shu offered.
"Uhm!" Nanoha gently took Shu's hand.
"Ne…"
"Hm?" Shu turns his head slightly.
"I'm planning on having a New Year celebration with everyone, what do you think about that?" Nanoha asked.
"That sounds great, but do you think we should tell everyone about magic and stuff?" Shu said.
"Yeah… especially Suzuka-chan and Arisa-chan…" Nanoha muttered.
"We'll tell them when we have the chance, since school is closed during these times, I think we'll have plenty of time." Shu smiled.
"Yes… oh, do you want to go visit Hayate-chan tomorrow?" Nanoha asked.
"Sure, I have nothing to do anyways. Don't forget to tell Fate about that." Shu reminded.
"Of course!"
Finally, the two teach Nanoha's house, it is not a long walk but it does take some time.
"I'll see you tomorrow Nanoha." Shu waved and turns around.
"Wait!"
"Huh?"
"…Thank you… for believing in me." Nanoha blushed.
"I will always have faith in you, so do your best on everything alright?" Shu smiled.
"Yes!" Nanoha answered brightly.
Shu waved Nanoha farewell and proceed to slowly walk home. He doesn't really want to wormhole himself back, he wants to enjoy the cold and the beautiful snow. But like almost all good things, it must come to an end as he reaches his house.
"Mother, I am back." Shu shouted.
"Shu-chan! I'm so worry about you!" Minori ran to her son and hugs him tightly.
"Admiral Lindy shows you everything doesn't she?" Shu smiled as he hugged his mother.
"Yes, I saw everything… I'm so proud of you Shu-chan." Minori said.
"Thank you mother…"
"Shu-chan, I think I'm going to re-enlist as Admiral's Lindy part-time communication officer, what do you think?" Minori smiled.
"Sounds good to me, I don't want you to get bored staying home." Shu laughed a bit.
"Ahahaha~ I see." Minori laughed.
-Next Day-
"I wonder how long Hayate is going to be in the hospital…" The blonde girl said.
"Hopefully she'll be able to walk again soon." The brunette answered.
"She will, since her linker core is operating normally." The purple-haired boy said.
Nanoha, Fate, and Shu are on the bus that is currently heading for the Uminari University Hospital. The plan is to visit Hayate, then go straight to the party at Arisa's house. They plan to tell Arisa and Suzuka about everything, then head to Nanoha's house and tell her family about what is going on. Make no mistake about it, Nanoha is nervous to tell her family about the magic world and stuff, but it has to be done.
Ding! Uminari University Hospital!
"We're here." Fate muttered softly.
The three got down from the bus and walk towards the patient quarters.
-Hayate's Room-
Hayate is preparing to go out. She got the E-mail from Suzuka about the Christmas party at Arisa's place so she is going to be there.
"Good morning!" Three voices are heard.
The Wolkenritter and Hayate turn to the voice and see the three protagonists standing there.
"Ah! Good morning, Nanoha-chan, Fate-chan, Shu-kun!" Hayate smiled as Signum gently set her down on the wheelchair.
"Eh? What's wrong? Have you already been released?" Fate asked.
"Unfortunately, no. I'll be here for a little while longer." Hayate slowly moves up to them.
"Well, not for long I guess?" Shu said.
"Hopefully not!" Hayate stick out her tongue playfully.
"Oh, what are you going to do today Hayate-chan?" Nanoha asked.
"Ahh, I'm going to Suzuka-chan's and Arisa-chan's Christmas party! Didn't she tell you about that?" Hayate tilted her head curiously.
"No, that's why we come here in case you didn't know about it, but it's all good. We can go together!" Nanoha smiled.
"Yeah sure!" Hayate smiled as Signum, Vita, and Shamal is getting their coats.
"A lot happened yesterday, but really, thank you from the beginning to the very end." Hayate said with gratefulness.
"Don't worry about it."
"Not at all!"
"It's fine." The three said simultaneously.
The three notices the fragment that belongs to Reinforce hanging from Hayate's neck. Hayate seems to notice their look.
"This fragment of Reinforce will always remind me that I will find a way to bring her back…" Hayate smiled nostalgically.
"We will help you to accomplish that, so don't worry." Shu said as Nanoha and Fate nodded eagerly.
"Thank you, I'm also thinking of installing a new device inside this fragment too." Hayate said.
"Hayate, you're still going to be a mage?" Fate asked with a concern. The three thought Hayate doesn't want to fight or be in magical combat situations. They thought that she just wants to live happily with her knights, and if she can, with Reinforce who she is going to bring back.
"It's the power that Reinforce gave me. Besides, thanks to this most recent case, we're all going to be probationary officers for the Bureau." Hayate explained.
"Ho? Really?" Shu asked with a surprise tone.
"Kind of yeah…" Vita answered with boredom.
"We'll be following up on some of their business to make up for our crimes." Shamal explained.
"Officer Chrono arranged all of this for us." Signum shook her head while smiling.
"The terms of office are pretty long, but this was probably the only way we could always stay near Hayate-chan." Shamal smiled.
The three nodded as they trying to comprehend the situation.
"I'll be a temporary officer, so I guess that'll make me your junior eh?" Hayate smiled.
"Well, not to me since I am not the Bureau's agent or anything. But to Nanoha and Fate, then yes." Shu smiled sheepishly.
"Well, you better catch up! Or I'll surpass you in rank really quickly." Hayate stick out her tongue at him playfully again.
"Ho, I'll keep that in mind." Shu smirked.
Everyone exited the room and proceed to the hallway. Dr. Ishida is standing there with her feet tapping on the floor.
"Ehehe… please wait for a moment." Shamal said nervously as she gently pushes Hayate towards Dr. Ishida. Signum follows the suit.
"Hayate-chan! You better come back today! Promise me!" Dr. Ishida scolded Hayate.
"Yes! I promise!" Hayate said.
The three and Vita stand there and observe the situation.
"So, it was really a mess here last night and this morning?" Nanoha asked while sweatdropped.
"Yeah… She spent the night away without permission, so Signum and Shamal got into a big trouble…" Vita explained with a pity expression.
"She's a scary doctor…" Fate smiled nervously.
"But… She's a very good one." Vita smiled. The three also smiled in acceptance as Dr. Ishida wishes Hayate a good trip.
Shamal pushes Hayate towards the group as they prepare to leave. But Signum notices that Fate is staring at her.
"Sorry to keep you waiting!" Hayate said.
"Not at all!" Nanoha replied as the group except for Signum and Fate move forward.
Shamal notices that Signum and Fate didn't follow them and turn her head in curiosity. Shu also notices it and watch the interactions between the two self-proclaim rivals.
"Testarossa…"
"Yes, Signum?"
"The match we put off… one day, I'll definitely settle it with you." Signum said.
Yes, fair and square… many and many times." Fate smiled.
Signum is genuinely surprised and pat Fate's head gently. Shamal and Shu smiled at their interactions and decided not to say anything.
They finally arrived at the bus station. The Wolkenritter asked Nanoha, Fate, and Shu to take care of Hayate which they happily oblige. They waved at one another while going separate ways.
Location: Takamachi Household
"Hm?" Nanoha's father, Shiro notices something on the table.
"What is it dear?" Nanoha's mother, Momoko asked.
"It's a letter from Nanoha…" Shiro opens the letter.
"Tou-san, Okaa-san, Oni-chan, and Onee-chan later tonight I have something to talk to you tonight. Lindy-san, Fate-san, and Shu-san will also be coming, so please listen to what we have to say before dinner… Nanoha."
"I wonder what she wants to talk to us." Shiro said as he finished reading Nanoha's letter.
"Maybe something she wants to do in the future?" Momoko smiled.
"Yeah, that might be it!" Shiro laughed.
Location: Arisa's Mansion
"Nanoha and Fate said that they should be arriving any minute now. They also have something they want to tell us…" Arisa read the message in her phone.
"I wonder if Hayate was there last night." Suzuka said softly.
"Well, if they want to keep a secret, then its fine with me… but if they decide to tell us then let's listen to what they have to say." Arisa smiled.
"Yeah! I'll be happy if she told us everything starting from how she met Fate-chan!" Suzuka smiled.
"If they tell us everything, I feel like we'll become even better friends than ever before." Suzuka closes her eyes.
"Yeah, you're right." Arisa agreed.
Ding! Ding!
"Ah! That should be them!" Arisa ran down the stairs.
"Arisa-sama, your friends are here." Arisa's butler bowed.
"Thank you, please let them in!" Arisa shouted.
The butler bowed as he opened the door.
"We're here!" The three girls exclaimed.
"Welcome everyone!" Suzuka and Arisa said simultaneously.
"Let's go to the garden! We can have tea, snacks, and talks there!" Arisa suggested.
Everyone nodded as they headed towards the Garden. They sat down as Arisa's maids bring a lot of tea and snacks to the table. They are having fun chatting about New Year's plan, events, and stuff. Nanoha decided to start the conversation about magic and stuff. Fate, Hayate, and Shu help Nanoha explain everything regarding the magical world. Arisa and Suzuka are shocked at first, but the more they listen to the story the more it makes sense. The time flies like an arrow as they finished explaining everything that has happened. Arisa and Suzuka bid them farewell, because Nanoha has to tell her family about the same thing. But before that, Nanoha, Fate, and Shu accompanied Hayate to her house. Hayate waved the three a goodbye and promised that all of them will be at the New Year's Party. The three decided to meet up with Lindy at Nanoha's house.
Location: Takamachi Household
"We're here!" Nanoha said as she leads the two to her house.
"Ah, everyone! You are here!" Lindy walked up to the group.
"Hello, Lindy-san." The group said. Lindy smiled as another person also walks up to the group.
"Mother? I thought you stayed home." Shu said with a surprise expression.
"I have to talk with Lindy about re-enlisting, and she invited me to come here as well." Minori smiled.
"Minori-san, it is good to see you!" Nanoha smiled. Fate also bowed respectfully at Shu's mother.
"It is nice to see you again too, I hope you don't mind if I kind of join the dinner without your permission." Minori smiled apologetically.
"Not at all!" Nanoha smiled as she opens the door for everyone. All of them muttered a thank you to Nanoha as they entered her family's humble abode.
Nanoha's family greeted everyone as they stepped inside the house. The guests introduced themselves to our favorite brunette's family and vice-versa.
Lindy decided to start the explanation that Nanoha wanted to tell her family. They sat down in the living room and Lindy starts to explain about how and what happened from the first day that Nanoha got Raising Heart. Nanoha's older brother and sister have the look of disbelief in their eyes, but her Father and Mother have the understanding and accepting look. Only Momoko knows that her husband actually has the magical power inside him, but she didn't expect that her daughter would have this much amount of magical power, or even working for the Bureau.
"So, Nanoha, what do you want to do?" Shiro asked with all seriousness.
"I want to convey my way of magic to others." Nanoha answered in all honesty.
"So, that means you want to be a teacher?" Miyuki, Nanoha's older sister asked.
"Something like that, onee-chan." Nanoha smiled.
"If you really want to do it, then we will not stop you Nanoha." Momoko smiled.
"But make sure that you are safe, that must be the first priority." Shiro demanded.
"Yes father!" Nanoha smiled.
"Admiral Lindy, I will leave Nanoha in your care, please look after her." Shiro said almost in a grumble tone. He is displeased that his youngest daughter has to enter the cruel real world at this age, but he knows that he has to let her go sooner or later.
"Absolutely, but to be honest you don't need to worry Shiro-san. Nanoha has a lot of friends that will take care of her." Lindy smiled.
"Ahahaha! I see!" Shiro laughed.
The dinner at Takamachi household is better than expected. After all the serious talks, everyone needed a break or sorts to cut off the tension. There are wide selections of gourmet home-made food on the large table, from eastern cuisine to western. Everyone is laughing and enjoying the feast greatly, and they even agreed on having a New Year's Party at the TSAB-owned house at the mountain where they sealed Reinforce. Everything is going pretty well.
"Excuse me, Shirakawa-san."
"Hm?" Shu turns around and see Shiro calling him.
"Can I have a private conversation with you for a minute?"
"Yes sir." Shu follows Nanoha's father to the outside garden of their home.
"What is it Mr. Takamichi?" Shu asked.
"Please call me Shiro… I must thank you for protecting my daughter..." Shiro smiled.
"With respect sir, your daughter saved me that is why I want to protect her." Shu replied.
"I know, which leads to my next selfish request." Shiro said seriously.
"What is it sir?"
"I know you are younger than my daughter, I know that I have no right to ask you this but… can you take care of my daughter?" Shiro requested with a smile.
"You don't need to ask… I will do it regardless of your request anyway Shiro-san." Shu said playfully.
"Ahahahaha! That's good to hear!" Shiro laughed as he pat the boy's back.
"By the way, you better consider her feelings." Shiro smiled deviously.
"Despite my young age, I am well aware of that sir…" Shu smiled back sheepishly.
"Good, because if you intentionally hurt her feelings, then I will make sure you will regret it." Shiro said darkly as he is suddenly holding an intimidating long samurai sword.
"A-Alright…" Shu stuttered as the blade shines scarily.
"You may not know, but we Takamachi family descended from a great samurai clan." Shiro said as his sword suddenly disappeared from his hand.
"Despite the fact that the world has changed, we still keep our traditions. We take care of our family very seriously, I hope you understand." Shiro smiled.
"Y-Yes… I understand…" Shu managed to utter the reply. Nanoha's father is not a guy who he wishes to anger.
"Good!" Shiro laughed as he returns inside the house.
"Make a note to never cross anyone in Takamachi family…" Shu thought warily.
[It will be done master.] Granzon blinked.
Shu just shuddered as he imagines about what will unfold if something happens to Nanoha.
"Shu-kun? Are you alright?" Shu notices that voice, it's Nanoha's.
"I'm fine…" Shu calms down.
"I saw that father wanted to talk to you, is everything alright?"
"Everything is fine, he just wanted to make sure that you're safe that's all." Shu pat Nanoha's head gently.
"Uhm, by the way Shu-kun…" Nanoha blushes.
"Hm?"
"Do y-you, you know… want to go..uh-uhm… watch movies a-and stuff after New Year?" Nanoha is fidgeting nervously.
"Sure, I'll take you to my favorite sweet shops, maybe you can show me yours." Shu smiled.
"Y-Yes! Sure!" Nanoha smiled brightly.
-Next Day-
Location: Arthra
"So, why are you calling us here?" Signum asked in the name of everyone.
"After the New Year, you guys have to enlist in the TSAB. All of you can choose different branches of TSAB to join, it is up to you well exception to Hayate." Chrono explains.
"Why?" Shu asked in curiosity.
"Because of Hayate's health she cannot join the Armed forces or anything related to field-work. Admiral Leti, my mother's friend requested that she will be joining the special investigation unit along with you four." Chrono said as he looks at the Wolkenritter.
"Sorry, I forgot to mention that to you guys." Hayate smiled sheepishly at Nanoha, Fate, and Shu.
"It's alright Hayate-chan!" Nanoha smiled.
"So… do you three have any ideas in mind?" Chrono asked.
"I want to become a full-time officer like you Chrono… I want to stop the Lost Logia events from happening." Fate said with passion.
"Then, you'll be enlisting as a cadet officer in the Dimensional Navy. I think you can work with Hayate in special investigation cases." Chrono said. Fate nodded with a smile.
"I want to teach my way of magic to others…" Nanoha muttered.
"Then you are looking at the Armed Corps. You can be advancing to Training Corps, and even to Tactical Instructor Corps there." Chrono explained.
Nanoha nodded as she tries to comprehend everything that Chrono said.
"What about you Shu?" Chrono asked.
"…" Everyone turns their attention towards to boy.
"Shu?" Chrono repeated.
"I don't really know." Shu said as he looks away.
"…" Chrono stays silent.
"I want to protect everyone that is precious to me, but I just don't know how or where to start." Shu explained.
"…Maybe you should join the main office considering that you are good at strategies and planning." Chrono suggested.
"That sounds good but…" Shu muttered.
"If you are worrying about working in the office all day then you are wrong. You can take the Mage Rank examination and you must attend to the Ground Forces Academy. Then if you wish, you can attend to Training Corps which will teach you in aerial combat situations." Chrono explained.
"This also applies to all of you." Chrono looked at everyone.
"So, I can work at the Main Office branch, but I can still take the mage exams, and become a field-officer commander or something? Is that what you are saying?" Shu asked.
"Something like that, yes." Chrono replied.
"Alright… that is fine by me." Shu sighed.
"Let me remind all of you, taking mage examination will be really beneficial in increasing ranks and such. You will have to either be a Ground mage or an Aerial mage depending on your abilities. I will give all of you every detail on January." Chrono said.
"Alright!" Everyone replied.
"By the way, what are the plans for the New Year Party?" Chrono smirked.
Everyone just smiled at each other.
End of Chapter 7
Here comes the hard part of the story. Since the original Nanoha anime doesn't tell you anything in between A's and Striker, I needed to make something up so… let's hope for the best.
