Early the next morning Nanoha sat at the table with Fate. Vivio and Einhart were in much better shape than the previous evening. Artoria was a bit awkward, trying to help Einhart keep her dignity, while Joan was her usual self.

"Are you alright children?" Nanoha asked warmly

Vivio answered quietly. "We've run out of tears. It still hurts, but we're fine. Right Einhart?"

Einhart nodded. "Yes."

Fate spoke up as well. "We'll have Artoria and Joan stay with you and do whatever you want. Or, you can come with us and all five of us can keep Sakura company."

"Keep Sakura company, I think."

So instead of just Fate coming along, the whole Takamachi group joined Sakura, Rin and Hayate.

This didn't phase Sakura in the slightest. "Hello everyone!" She greeted them enthusiastically.

Artoria bowed politely and Joan waved. "Hello Sakura, we're glad to see you happy."

"As am I. But I'm afraid Nee-san might get nervous."

Fate dispersed her worries. "Rin will have more important things to worry about."

Off to the side, Nanoha addressed Rin with a serious look. "Alright, as a novice you've done alright till now. However, we need to start working on your use of magical energy."

She brought up a drone. "Now, I'd like you to form a shield which you can maintain properly, without consuming such large amounts of energy."

The drone got ready to attack and Rin formed her shield.

"Stop. How much energy did you put into that shield?"

Emerald Flight answered. "As much as she needs for a shield."

"And that is?"

"Quite a lot."

Nanoha shook her head. "Rin, you cannot just use up so much energy and rely only on what you can build up in a day. You must learn to channel the magical energy present around you."

Rin nodded. "I confess, I am still very much unused to this."

Nanoha smiled. "That's alright, we'll work on it. I presume you can help, Emerald Flight."

"Gladly. Mistress, close your eyes and focus on what your essence perceives."

Rin followed the instructions. Nothing happened for a moment, then she almost lost her footing as she felt the world around her. "Wow, that was a bit freaky."

"You alright?"

"Yes, actually much better than usual."

Nanoha nodded. "Remember that even when you channel energy from the environment, you will still have a limit. Let's go with that shield again."

The drone began to attack and Rin created a shield to defend herself. As the drone moved around she kept up with the attacks, neutralizing them.

"Also try to neutralize your enemy Rin, else you'll be pushed into a corner."

"On it."

Rin created a sphere behind the shield and threw it at the drone, which easily avoided it and kept attacking. The sphere followed the drone and kept up the attack attempts. The drone evaded and continued to attack Rin. Hard as she tried, Rin couldn't catch the drone, which was controlled by Raising Heart.

"Stop."

The drone and Rin followed orders.

"You're still having a hard time doing both things at the same time. I advise, rather than create a shield, reinforce your barrier jacket so it resists attacks and then focus on neutralizing the threat. You alright to try?"

"Yes, I can still go on. Right, Emerald Flight?"

"Right you are. Creating barrier."

The drone went back into attack mode and didn't give Rin even a moment, striking hard and fast. She was very grateful her defense field was finally up, but still didn't enjoy being attacked. Rin could direct the sphere of energy much better now and as fast as the drone was, it couldn't avoid and attack at the same time anymore. Less attacks coming in made for much better targeting and after a few minutes, the drone was neutralized.

"Very good." Nanoha praised. "Now I want you to try something different. Try capturing a drone so you can neutralize it."

Rin looked a bit confused.

"Emerald Flight?"

"Mistress can indeed do that. She need time to figure it out though."

"Very well, try it on a drone."

Rin closed her eyes once again. "I'm counting on your support, Emerald Flight."

"Alright. Imagine yourself capturing the enemy, with whatever you find to be strong enough."

Rin followed the instruction and after a few moments, the drone was held immobile by a series of ropes. It struggled intensely, which made Rin create more ropes.

"Good. Now neutralize it."

The ropes closed in tighter and managed to crush the drone, putting it out of action.

Nanoha hummed. "Right. Raising heart, how's she doing?"

"For a newbie, excellent. But she needs practice."

"She'll get plenty. Set up three drones with attack and defense capabilities."

Rin got ready once again.

"Don't worry if you fail on this, but do try your best." Nanoha smiled at her.

The attacks began immediately and Rin found it very hard to focus. She could managed to fend off the attacks but could not stop or target the drones. After an hour of futile attempts, she was exhausted.

"That's enough. We know what to work on from now on."

"Nanoha is a harsh taskmaster, but she's good." Artoria said with respect in her tone, having watched the training.

Vivio nodded with pure enthusiasm. "Mama always duels with me to the best of her abilities."

"As is proper. But do remember what we talked about."

Fate raised an eyebrow. "What did you talk about?"

"We asked the children not to play fight for spectacle anymore. We have no opposition to friendly spars, but public spectacle is rather distasteful."

Fate looked at Vivio. "And? Did you agree?"

Vivio grimaced a bit. "We agreed. We don't want to make Artoria or Joan mad."

Fate raised an eyebrow. "Why would that make them mad?"

"Because it's tacky to use powers that killed people for a public spectacle. And it puts other kids in danger." Joan spoke plainly.

Artoria nodded. "I concur. If not during the tournaments, then old nightmares that reawaken might effect others."

Fate hummed thoughtfully. "I don't think tournaments with safety measures are any danger to the children. Nor are they offensive to most people. However, if it does bother you, I doubt either of them will be upset with you not going."

Joan sighed. "If the kids will be upset to not go, I'm fine with it. But could you please just use your present names, not the ones of old kings?"

Fate nodded. "A perfectly fine idea. You girls agree?"

Vivio nearly jumped for joy. "Yes. Yes of course!"

Einhart was more reserved but her smile was very wide. "Thank you."

Fate went on. "Now I want you two to tell me, why does a tournament bother you so much?"

Artoria sighed, rubbing the bridge of her nose. "To be plain, it reminds us of the mock engagements we had in our times. Someone always wound up getting hurt, and that was the point a lot of the time."

Joan nodded. "It reminds me of the melee fighting of my life. Not something I liked to see, even in play fights. But if the kids just want to do it for themselves, then fine."

"I give you my word, I would never let Vivio get involved in something where she might really get hurt." Fate swore.

Fate patted Vivio on the head, making her hum happily. Artoria, on the other hand, became embarrassed and bowed deeply. "I am so sorry for my rudeness and presumption!"

Fate almost blushed herself. "Oh dear, that's not a problem. Excuse us for being a bit insensitive in regards to your past."

Seeing the two react, Joan chuckled. "Alright, we've made our peace. Let's not make fun of ourselves anymore."

Rin's exercise came to an exhaustive close and Sakura broke her own very intense concentration upon it. She turned around to speak with the others. "Sorry about being so quiet. I was paying attention to Nee-san."

"You're learning everything you can just watching her. When you're ready, you'll be at her level." Joan spoke calmly.

Sakura reacted with feigned surprise. "Oh, you saw right through me."

Fate wasn't amused, however. "Sakura, don't lie to us."

This time the surprise wasn't feigned. "Oh no, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to deceive you. Your company does help very much, but I want to learn everything I can from Nee-san's training as well." She calmed down and smiled warmly. "And I do very much enjoy your company."

Fate dropped the serious tone and gave her a light tap on the head. "Punishment!"

"Oh dear."

Even Artoria giggled.

Nanoha descended with Rin from the training area. "Alright everyone, enough horsing around. Rin is making very good progress, and I suspect so is Sakura." She inclined her head towards the lavender-haire young woman. "You can learn everything you want and in fact I advise it." Her tone got far more serious even though she never stopped smiling. "But don't lie to Fate."

"Nanoha, she didn't mean anything bad, she just wants to learn." Fate explained.

Returning to her usual manner, Nanoha sighed. "I know that, but I don't like her being too hasty. She still needs to rest."

Nanoha shifted her attention to Artoria and Joan. "Now, I heard what you two were saying a while ago. And I want us to properly talk this evening, because I think it's important."

Then she moved to Einhart and Vivio. "You can do whatever you like, as long as you're not urting anyone. If you do, I'll make sure to punish you."

The look Nanoha gave them made Einhart shiver.

"Alright then, Rin hits the showers and we'll head for home. Medusa is waiting for you two."

"Thank you as always." The sisters chorused.

As the group was heading for home, a very tired Nove joined them on the way.

"Hello, I don't suppose you'll mind me sleeping at your house for a while?"

Nanoha just smiled. "It's your house as well. Let's go, you can catch some sleep with the children."

Her face lit up. "Thank you."

At home, Nanoha and Fate prepared dinner, served and had Nove go to bed with the children.

Then they sat down with Artoria and Joan. "Alright, you two, speak clearly. I'm not troubled, or bothered or scared, I just want to understand. Speak clearly. What did the tournament remind you of?"

"Let her majesty speak first." Joan said, turning to her fellow blonde.

Artoria sighed. "Alright. It reminded me of the tournaments the knights used to organize back in my day. It wasn't a sports event. They tried doing real harm to one another. After I came to power I made sure rules were followed to best prevent serious injuries."

Artoria saw that Nanoha wasn't very convinced so spoke more directly. "They fought like beasts during melee. It wasn't at all pleasant. And it also reminds me of battle to much for me to consider it a sport. People using powers like that. Just like knights with real weapons in a simple competition."

Nanoha gave an understanding nod. "Alright then. So how often would you engage in warfare proper?"

"The kingdom was beset so I'd say once a year. Once every two years if we were lucky. Not always big engagements mind you, just never ending skirmishes. But none were ever pleasant."

"Were you engaged in all of them?"

"Always. I was the King, the king leads by example."

"Was there anytime when you could say you were at complete peace?"

"No."

"I see..."

Joan spoke up. "That would be the experience of most people who grew up before what is called modern times."

Nanoha raised her hands. "I'm not trying to judge, only understand."

Joan gave her a sad slmile. "I think, Nanoha, that it's better you don't understand."

"Why?"

"Because it's unpleasant. I don't want to remember killing people. They were misguided, yes, but they were still people."

Artoria nodded. "I always fought honorably and fair, but in battle, people will always die. And it's not a pleasant sight or memory."

Nanoha then took them both by surprise. "Then I do understand. And I apologize for making you remember bad events, but that leads me to my main point. You two, and our whole group, is going on a month long vacation. And I mean vacation for a proper rest. I want you two out of that state of mind."

Joan nodded but Artoria wasn't convinced. "Nanoha, we have to be on our guard, at all times. It is our duty."

"That's not what I'm talking about. You're mentally stuck in those times, and I want you to get out of there."

Artoria looked at her in complete confusion. "What?"

"I want you to enjoy this time of peace. I'll be by your side so you can still guard me. But I won't have you stuck in the past like that. Even if it's for the sake of guarding me and my family. If you don't want to get out of that place, you can consider your mission done."

Joan snorted. "Now, that is unfair, but not surprising. If it helps us guard you I'm willing to give it a try."

Artoria still looked completely confused so Joan went on. "But you'll have to help Artoria with every day life. Her majesty is very earnest, but also... somewhat lacks common sense."

Nanoha smiled. "I noticed, but that won't be a problem." She replied, ignoring Artoria's pouting form.

"We'd be more than happy to actually help you find your way in normal, peaceful life." Fate chimed in.

At this point Artoria began looking down with a blush on her face. "No, I couldn't possibly burden you with that."

Nanoha grinned. "There it is, that's the soft insides of the rough shell."

"How dare you call me soft!"

"Well, you're making a face like that!"

Joan started to chuckle and Artoria turned to her next. "Don't you start too!"

"Sorry, majesty, but we can't help it. You're too much fun to tease."

Artoria looked with angry reproach at everyone sitting at the table, but it wasn't the usual look of deadly fury she gave. Now it was that of a flustered young woman, beautiful enough to break one's heart just by gazing at her.

Fate wave a hand at her. "Relax, we just think you look so much better when you're not forcing yourself."

Regaining her composure, Artoria replied calmly. "Fine, I'll do as you ask. But please don't ask me to do things that would impede on my dignity as a king."

Nanoha gave her a flat look. "You are no longer a king. You did your best. From now on you're a family member who needs to relax. Understood?"

Artoria frowned at her for a moment. "Yes." She finally said, though her jaw was clenched.

"Good. We still have one more important thing to attend to. And I hope Vivio and Einhart won't be too heartbroken by it."

The weather was almost perfect. A few clouds were spread across the sky and the sun shone brightly. The procession for Sieg advanced with dignity as her cremated remains were carried to her final resting place. The family was given the front row while the Takamachi family and company were placed behind them.

The church representative said a few words. "We are here today to mourn the passing of Sieglinde Eremiah. A kind and gentle girl, burdened by the memories of a past that was not hers, but claimed her nonetheless. We wish that hers will be the last life that Belka ever claims, and we present our deepest condolences to her family and friends. Those who knew her, knew a kind, giving person, who will be greatly missed. May she find peace."

Vivio and Einhart were sitting silently, crying with no word or sounds, as dignified as they could be, with Fate and Nanoha at their side. The whole family was flanked by Artoria and Joan who also sat in dignified silence.

The girl's parents did not speak a word, almost frozen in grief, as the remains were lowered into the ground. Before the earth was put back, the mother put a small plush bear next to the urn, then left in the same silence she'd come to stand aside her husband. The rest of the Eremiah group followed.

Vivio and Einhart went to present their last respects, but were only able to give a pained "Good bye Sieg." before starting to properly cry again.

"I have another place to be today, unfortunately. Can you see these the children home?" Nanoha whispered to Fate.

Fate nodded. "Of course."

In the military section of the cemetery, Genya was being laid to rest as well, with his family, most of the Yagami clan and a number of Bureau officers present. Among them Teana, supporting a still shaky Subaru, who cried like a child as the remains were put in the ground.

Hayate herself was quiet and reserved, not speaking a single word through the ceremony. Signum and Shamal were there to support her, doubled by Rein and Agito who stood on their partners' shoulders with perfect dignity.

She was invited to speak by the Bureau officers and presented herself impeccably in her uniform, before addressing those preset.

"Genya Nakajima was a father to all who served under or with him. A person whom one could trust completely with their safety, well being and life. He was dedicated to his work and to his family, and to the cause of justice. Genya fell trying to defend his family. I know all of us will remember him for as long as we live, as beloved father, trusted mentor and precious comrade. The best way to honor him is living by and for the things he cared for. May he find peace."

The combat cyborgs, still in need of rest, stood crying as Genya was lowered into the ground. All of them thanked a very affected Hayate, who herself could barely hold back her tears.

In a far more remote cemetery, outside the city limits and under the shadow of steep hills, a simple grave marker was being put in place as well. Verossa Acous stood as the only intended witness. Besides him was present an unintended one. Quiet and forlorn, even more so than him, Sakura looked at the stone was lifted and then put properly on the ground.

"I have to say I expected to be the only one present at this."

Sakura smiled softly. "I don't blame you. But I'm here for my own reasons."

"Oh, I understand."

They stood there for a few minutes in almost complete silence. Verossa looked at a very gloomy Sakura with understanding and patience. "Go ahead and speak if you want."

Sakura looked at him and smiled with gratitude. Then she turned to the headstone of Helena Blair and spoke. "We're very similar, you and I. We've gone down the same path. I just happened to be a bit luckier. But I've taken more lives than you have, this I'm certain of. There's no way we can wash such a sin away. But we can pay for it."

Verossa chimed in. "We can pay for it by making sure things like this never happen again."

"We can try at least." Sakura replied with a bitter smile.

"To the best of our abilities." Verossa gave a similar smile back as he spoke the words. "And rack up some more crimes as we do it."

"That's wrong. You can be redeemed, as could Helen." Nanoha's voice took them by surprise.

They turned to see her walking up to the head stone before she looked at Verossa. "What's buried here?"

"Her ring. All that was left of her."

"I see." Nanoha nodded and turned to the stone. "She acted horribly. What she did is unforgivable and irreparable. But she could still be set right, back on the proper path. What happened to her was also unforgivable, even if it was an accident. But one harm does not justify another. She had no right to take the lives of others! But she did, and my friends destroyed her shape. Somehow, I know she's not at peace. Because she knows taking a life is wrong, no matter what the reason. So she can continue to return and suffer, or she can find rest and make amends for the things she's done and the foolish grudge she's held so long."

There was an almost clear gasp as Nanoha finished speaking. Sakura looked at her with astonishment while Verossa shook his head.

The intelligence officer lifted his arms. "I give up. There's no way I'm beating your spirit."

"This isn't about spirit, Verossa. This is about not being a spoiled person. No one, under any circumstances has the right to be so selfish as to harm others. No one! No matter their circumstances!"

Nanoha turned to Sakura. "And you. Don't revel in feeling sorry for yourself. What was done to you can never be forgiven or made good. I'm sorry that a person had to go through that. But that doesn't give you the right to wallow in self pity or self hatred. You're alive, so you can do good to outweigh the bad you've done. If you don't want to do it, I'll make sure to punish you myself."

Sakura looked at her and then started laughing bitterly. "I'll do all the good I can ever think of. All the good you can ever think of. But do you think that'll ever make things right?"

"No. But it will make things better for those who are still alive. And that includes yourself. Trust us to bring a better place for everyone to live in, and for everyone to rest peacefully in."

Sakura blinked, then shook her head. "You're unbelievable Nanoha. To ask something like that... But I believe you. Still, I feel I don't have that right."

"Nonsense, you're wallowing again."

Sakura started laughing. "You're right. I'm sorry, you're right."

"So are you ready to begin proper training?"

"Yes, I am. I really am now."

Nanoha nodded. "Excellent, Rin will have a proper partner."

She turned to the stone once again. "May you find rest now."

The atmosphere became palpably lighter, to a point where even the headstone seemed less gloomy.

A figure of a woman formed behind it. She looked human and alive for a moment, gazing at Nanoha. The figure mouthed "Thank you." and then vanished in a small cloud of dust.

Sakura looked like she'd had a revelation. "That's it, that's the reason."

Verossa, equally baffled, blurted out in confusion. "Pardon?"

Sakura regained her composure and shook her head. "Oh, just talking to myself."

"Talk to myself as well." Nanoha stepped up and spoke with her intimidating smile in place.

Sakura backed away partially. "It's an important matter."

"Go on."

"You just purified her Nanoha. You've cleansed her essence of the undead taint. This is why you're being targeted." Sakura explained.

It was Nanoha's turn to be confused. "But all I did was be myself."

"Something like that almost certainly couldn't be used by someone who wasn't pure of heart. Or special for that matter."

Verossa stepped in. "Wait a moment. Explain exactly why it's such a big deal."

Sakura took a breath. "Alright. Normally, something like an undead creature is a living being, usually a human, who's been fundamentally altered after death. By that I mean their very existence, soul and essence has been bent, modified at a fundamental level. To be able to purify it naturally is-"

"Is something almost no one can do." A voice cut her off suddenly. Gloria stood behind them in her usual attire.

"What the?!" Verossa almost panicked.

"Not the time, sweetheart. Nanoha, why the sad one fixated on you is clear now. Your ability can hinder his control over those he traps in his web. Though I suspect it only works individually, one case is enough to stir his wrath."

Nanoha looked at her half with amazement, half with reprehension.

"As the child was saying, the magic of undeath is very complex. It involves bending and breaking some very difficult things. Things that cannot be put back. For anyone with no knowledge of how it works, even allowing someone to be properly free someone into rebirth is a massive accomplishment. No, it's a miracle. One which you have the potential to repeat. And that is an intolerable threat to him."

Verossa, recovered his composure. "Then why not just kill her, if she's such a threat to prestige?"

"Because she wins if he does that. Killing her would only grant her a new life in immortal realms. He wants to break you, Nanoha. Now, probably, more than ever."

Nanoha looked with determination at Gloria. "I am not afraid."

Gloria chuckled. "Indeed. I cannot stay much longer, else risk more reaction from him. Your foe will not make a move until his preparations are complete. You should work to bond with these children as well until then. I will join you, as best and as often as I can."

With that she turned around and walked off, vanishing like mist in the morning.

Nanoha, still very much calm, turned to Sakura. "She always does that?"

"I haven't known her for that long, but I'd say that's typical of her."

Verossa drew a long breath. "At least we know what this is about."

"We know you're somehow even more amazing than we thought." Sakura said with a smile to Nanoha.

"Never mind that. She just told us something very important. We have to get right on that."

Verossa frowned. "The best thing you can do is become closer and work better together. With someone like that, being ready is the best option." He said calmly.

"As usual." Nanoha sighed. "But, at least everyone can get some rest. I want Artoria and Joan to get out of this mindset of theirs nonetheless."

Sakura chuckled nervously. "I don't know about that."

"Nonsense. We can't let two friends be mentally stuck in such bad times. I want them to enjoy this time of peace."

Verossa grinned. "I'll leave you two ladies to it then. Enjoy yourselves."

Sakura grabbed his shoulder as he turned around. "No, please stay for a while longer. I want to speak with you properly."

Nanoha's eyebrows rose. "Oh, then I shall leave you two to speak."

Verossa waved goodbye to Nanoha. "So what can I help you with?"

"Do you mind if we move somewhere else. Such a place... isn't really appropriate for a discussion."

"Of course. Please follow me."

Once they were sitting at a table inside a nearby cafe, Verossa gave Sakura a candid expression.

"So what do you want to speak about?"

"First, can I trust you?"

"Well, according to my friends I am trustworthy. Why?"

"Then I have a request for you."

"Very well. What is it?"

"I'd like to know you as a man."

Verossa didn't blink. "Are you serious?"

"Yes. I don't want to lead you on or anything. But I need the company of man and I can't just ask someone randomly."

"I'm... flattered, but I think you should reconsider."

Sakura shook her head. "I don't want some young guy who'll fall in love with me. I'm not interested in that. I want what you have to offer. I don't wanna make love, I want, as they say, a one night stand."

Verossa studied her for a moment. "Fine. Tonight at 8, my place."

Sakura nodded. "Any requests?"

"Red lace."

"See you then."

She left with a happy trot and Verossa could only shake his head in wonder as he watched her go.

The Takamachi family returned home, together with a still very mournful Nove.

"Thanks again for letting me sleep here."

Fate gave her a warm smile. "Don't be silly. It's the least we could do and the children love having you around."

"You're welcome to come with us on the vacation, if you want. But we won't be forcing you." Nanoha added.

Nove's answer was swift. "No. I'll be coming and training with everyone. I want to be able to do something."

"Very well, but I can't promise you that-." Nanoha stopped herself. "Well, yes actually, there will be something. Rin and Sakura need a proper opponent."

Nove grinned. "That I can do."

Nanoha gathered the adult members of the household and contacted Hayate to speak about her discussion with Sakura.

"I heard, Sakura just told me on our way back. I'm not surprised, honestly. But our plans remain the same."

Joan chuckled. "I told you all of that before."

"But you never made it clear." Artoria snapped at her.

"My apologies."

"Don't worry about it now." Nanoha stopped them with a candid smile.

Hayate moved on. "In any case, this makes our current trip all the more important. We'll be ready for whatever comes. And with Nove coming along, we have an ideal training partner. I especially want you, Nanoha, to be in the best of shape. If we can just neutralize the undead, that will save a lot of lives."

"It only works on an individual level, and with those who want to be saved." Joan spoke bluntly.

Nanoha wasn't discouraged. "One person saved is more than enough. And I suspect there are plenty."

Artoria, miffed at Joan, spoke formally. "I agree entirely with Nanoha. If we can free those who truly regret their choices, even one will be worth it."

"I agree with Nanoha." Fate chimed in. "But we'll need to work together to make sure you get the best chance with every single one."

"And there we have it. In a few days, everything will be prepared. All of us will have a great time." Hayate said cheerfully.

Nanoha looked at Artoria and Joan. "And you two will finally relax. The past is the past. I'm not asking you to forget, but you have to let go."

Joan chuckled while Artoria looked down.

To their surprise, Nove spoke up. "You two better listen to Nanoha. She's right."

Now even Joan looked away.

"We won't push you to do anything you really don't like." Fate said gently. "We just want you to live as people for a while, not as a king or a saint."

Both blondes sighed, still not looking at them.

Fate didn't back down. "It's for your own good. Trust Nanoha on this."

Hayate, still talking to them, spoke with glee. "Speaking of enjoying life, Sakura's meeting Verossa tonight for some fun."

"Hayate, don't tell that stuff to people." A voice in the background spoke with indignity.

Sakura's voice joined in. "There's no shame in it nee-san."

"Sakura, why are you even agreeing with her?!" The other voice, which the others recognized as Rin's, asked.

"You should find someone too. You're a grown woman, enjoy yourself."

The embarrassment was palpable, even through the device. "Sakura!"

Hayate had tears in her eyes from laughing. "Alright everyone, we'll speak later."

After the com screen closed, Joan blinked in disbelief. "I... guess we aren't the only ones having trouble."

Nanoha just laughed. "That's no trouble at all. It's good that Sakura is coming out of her shell."

Artoria bit her lip at that, which Fate noticed. "Is there something wrong?"

"Ah, no." Artoria coughed. "I just hope Verossa is a strong and healthy man."

Fate looked at her with a curious expression that then shifted to alarm. "Wait a moment, there isn't some kind of hitch to that is there?"

Artoria blushed. "Ah, no nothing like that."

Joan, groaning, replied bluntly. "The girl is demanding in bed. You can tell that easily."

Fate relaxed. "Oh, then I suspect they'll both have a great time then."

The Yagami household was in much less of an uproar. Hayate was very happy to dress Sakura in the best red sexy lingerie and clothes she could find. And then, to make her look even more ravishing, with red lipstick and tasteful makeup to the point where even Rin and Medusa looked on in awe.

"Wow, Sakura. You look gorgeous."

She smiled from ear to ear. "Thanks, I'm off."

Hayate watched her leave with a big grin. "Man she's gorgeous. Wish I was the lucky one."

Medusa, smiling herself, spoke directly. "No, Hayate, we are the lucky ones. We, and everyone who's ever been your friend."

"Oh cut that out, you make me blush. Let's have dinner!"

Rin went along to help Hayate cook as Medusa conversed merrily with the rest of the family.

"You know, I never thought I'd live to see Sakura go out like that. It's all thanks to you, Hayate."

"And all that is thanks to Nanoha. She saved this family from destruction. That's why I'm so happy Joan and Artoria are next to her. I want her to be safe." Hayate replied with a wide smile.

"With those two, she will."

"Now to just get them to open up so more."

Rin snorted doubtfully. "That's going to be hard."

"Yeah, but it's Nanoha. I'm confident she can do it."

"If you say that Hayate, then I'm sure that's the case."

Hayate's expression shifted to a more serious one. "I have to thank you two as well. I know you're doing everything you can to cheer me up. And I think you're very sweet for doing that."

Rin started to blush. "Don't be silly Hayate."

"Ha ha! Look at you blushing. You're so cute."

"Stop making fun of me!" Rin blushed even harder.

"I can't help it, you're too cute. Let's go and eat before I eat you up right here."

Rin shivered at the remark before looking away.

Everyone at the table asked Shamal how the cyborg sisters were doing after the funeral.

"They're hanging in there. They need a few more proper days of rest, but they'll be fine. In body at least."

Hayate spoke up. "The Bureau's already done rebuilding their home. And, just in case they don't want to live there anymore, we've got another one for them. I just hope their hearts will heal."

"They have each other. They will be fine, in time." Shamal spoke hopefully.

"And they have us whenever they need us." Vita chimed in.

Hayate patted her head.

Medusa spoke calmly to Signum. "In the time that we're together, I beseech you not to challenge Artoria proper. Both of you are earnest knights and you won't back down if challenged to a proper fight. And so both of you will badly hurt each other if it happens."

Signum nodded. "I understand and will take that into consideration."

"I trust Signum to restrain herself in mock fights. It will make me upset if she doesn't." Hayate said.

Signum was visibly alarmed by the suggestion but spoke as calmly as she could. "I understand, I won't press the issue."

"On the other hand, I'll be working to make those two come out of their shells. They need to have fun too."

Signum approved with a nod.

Medusa was taken by surprise. "I never figured you'd approve."

Signum hummed. "I can imagine. I enjoy company every once and again. And they should too."

Hayate jumped in with a wicked smile. "How about you Medusa? You getting your needs fulfilled?"

Medusa just returned her smile. "Oh quite often."

Hayate feigned surprise. "Without telling me? From now on you're telling so I can see you dress properly."

Medusa chuckled. "Are you serious?"

Hayate's smile became much warmer. "Yes. It would be an honor. And also a great pleasure if you could enjoy some time with me, Shamal and Signum, from time to time."

"Then I shall take you up on that offer."

Rin, shook her head. "Speaking of offers, when do you suppose Sakura' getting home?"

Medusa grinned wickedly. "I would say in the morning. If Verossa is lucky."

Hayate started laughing. "Hah man, he's going to have a fun evening."

Rin hummed. "I hope Sakura does too."

"I'm sure she will."