Authors Notes: Whoa! It has been almost three months since the last update! Sumimasen! Finally done with this chapter! I hope you guys enjoy the fluffs!

I'm changing the POV's and has started re-writing the previous chapters to make it better. Please be patient with me! Arigato!

Also, I would like to dedicate this chapter to my beloved onee-chan, phoenixnext Daisuki! and the oni"chan, elfbs who were so patient with me.. lol ya know what I mean. Thanks for smacking my head! hahaha! ofc, to our adorable theforgottenpen. Woah! I am so glad to have you all!

To those who are reading this note and wondering who're these peeps, gosh! You must start reading their awesome NanoFate stories coz you guys were missin a lot! If you don't know where to find them, you can use the names mentioned above as a tag search in google! :D

Here it goes!

Part 3: Takamachi Mansion

As the days went by, the relationship between the girls had grown into a strong friendship. Nanoha and Hayate never stopped railroading Fate until she had gotten used to the ridiculous behavior. The princess was able to accept the way her friends shanghaied her to do something that was out of her character. She had also learned how to get along with the two hyperactive girls and was able to loosen up herself. With her two newly found friends, the young princess felt like she had discovered the joy of running through the forest. The pleasure that she has been feeling since she met her friends was incomparable especially when she was alone with the auburn-haired girl.

One chilly afternoon, the three of them were inside the auburn-haired girl's room, not able to think of a new game to play, Nanoha decided to sit down with Fate trying to mellow out on the sofa. However, the boredom was visible on Hayate's face as she was impatiently walking in circles.

"Ne, ne Nanohaaa-chan! Fate-chan! Let's play hide and seek today!" Hayate paused and faced the princess and the auburn-haired girl as she blurted out her suggested game with an earnest expression on her face while cheerfully waggling her arms. Fate was sitting on the floor, her back resting against the box cushion, reading a picture book while Nanoha was sitting on the sofa behind the girl gently brushing silky blonde hair. Both of them look up, turned their gazes to Hayate when they heard her speak.

"Mou! Hayate-chan! I don't want to play hide and seek today! I just want to stay here on the sofa with Fate-chan and do nothing!" Nanoha pouted thinking Hayate was being a distraction to her moments with Fate as she was feeling blue since she knew that the princess will be going back home soon. The younger girl looked up to the auburn-haired girl with curious eyes, wondering about the tone of Nanoha's voice.

Hayate snorted as she walked around the couch so she was standing behind her friend, frustratingly shook the auburn-haired girl shoulders causing the hairbrush to tangle in Fate's hair. "Nanoha-chan you're so boring! It seems that you are in low-spirits today."

Slightly turning her head to glare at the brunette who's brows were knitted together staring at her, Nanoha said forcefully "Hayate-chan! Careful! Do not just shake me like that while I'm brushing Fate-chan's hair! We could have hurt her head!" Nanoha anxiously inspected the young princess. "Look at this Hayate-chan! Mou! It's messy and tangled." Her voice was exasperated.

Frowning at Nanoha, Hayate exclaimed "Ahhhhhhh! Nanoha-chaaaaan! You're so overprotective when it comes to Fate-chan! Just fix her hair already and let's play!" The brunette released her hold to Nanoha's shoulders then went to Fate and sat beside her. Snuggling against the princess's arm comfortably, the little raccoon rested her head on Fate's right shoulder "Fate-chan, Gomenasai! Please, tell Nanoha-chan to play hide and seek with us! Neh?" Hayate beseeched the princess.

Fate gently patted her head and smiled "It's okay Hayate. I'm not hurt or anything. Please don't worry." Her voice was soft.

The princess then gave Nanoha a soft tap on her leg, leaned back and looked up, giving her best puppy eyes she said "Nanoha, I wasn't hurt by what Hayate did. Let it slide for now. Go easy on her, neh?"

As the auburn-haired girl met her gaze she continued "Hmmm would you please tie my hair with my ribbons, now? When you are done, let's play hide and seek with this little raccoon." After she was done speaking, she put her left hand back on the brunette girl's head that was now laying on her lap. Her voice was gentle yet commanding.

Seeing the young princess's pleading eyes Nanoha sighed and nodded defeatedly as she said "Mou, Fate-chan! With those cute puppy eyes, it's hard to say no to you."

Nanoha paused for a while thinking what do, her right eye closed as she concentrated, when she made up her mind she spoke, "Let's play hide and seek then." Gently she pinched Fate's nose smiling at her playfully which caused the princess to smile, her crimson eyes sparkled with joy.

"But first…" Nanoha turned her attention to Hayate who was snuggling into Fate comfortably and said "neeeeeh! Ha-yaaaa-te-chaaaaaan." Smirking devilishly, pulling away the princess from her arms and said: "Please, don't snuggle so closely to my Fate-chan."

Laughing foolishly while scratching the back of her head, Hayate said "Ajahahaha, I don't know why, but Nanoha-chan seems to be spiteful to me today. Hehehe!"

Pouting at the auburn-haired girl Hayate continued "This is not fair, Nanoha-chan! You don't want to share Fate-chan with me! I want to snuggle and cuddle her too!" There was a teasing tone to Hayate's voice that made Fate giggle. She began wondering if she could sneak away with Nanoha to avoid Hayate's silliness. Or maybe it would be better to tease her back?

While playfully tapping her fingers on her lap, Fate spoke, "You never ceased to amuse me, Hayate. I'm really going to miss your tomfoolery and your racoon face." The princess reached out her hand to pinch Hayate's face.

Dropping her head Hayate spoke, "Moou! Fate-chan! Always calling me a racoon like that." Her shoulders sagged.

Hearing Hayate's complaint, Nanoha spoke "That's it! Hayate-chan! Because you are a racoon! Fate-chan likes animals, right Fate-chan?" Nanoha smirked, sticking out her tongue to Hayate as she waggled her head playfully.

Straight-faced Fate replied. "Indeed, Nanoha. I love animals. They are the most adorable creatures in the world."

Making a face at the older girl, Hayate exclaimed "You're a meanie, Nanoha-chan! You'll gonna pay for this someday! I must start compiling all of your embarrassing moments and expose them when we are older!" Faking her sobbed while dramatically wiping her invisible tears.

Ignoring the brunette, Nanoha spoke happily "Yosssh! Done with your twintails, Fate-chan!"

Fate gently stood up from her sitting position, shook off the lint from her skirt and turned her gaze straight to Nanoha's sapphire eyes and said: "Thank you, Nanoha." Speaking softly, she smiled.

A voice like a foghorn suddenly filled the room as the brunette haired girl spoke loudly "Yahoo! Now, we can play hide and seek! Let's play the rock, paper, and scissors first to decide who's going to be the monkey."

Laughing loudly the older girl spoke. "Niyahaha! You will always be the monkey Hayate-chan!" Nanoha pulled Fate closer to her, arms wrapped around her waist while leaning her head on the young princess right shoulder and with a silly smile on her face she continued teasing Hayate. "Fate-chan and I will always be the winner. Ne, Fate-chan?" Nanoha looked at Fate waiting for her response.

Feeling upset Hayate shouted "Ahhhhhh! Nanoha-chaaaan! Don't think about cheating! And don't try to deny it! It's written all over your face!"

Gently scratching her face, Fate glanced at the whining brunette with a brooding expression, seeing her friend pouting she turned her head to meet Nanoha's eyes and spoke. "Nanoha, play fair, neh? I really feel bad for Hayate when she's not cheating on a game."

Winking at Fate, Nanoha grinned. "Understood. If Fate-chan says so. I don't have to cheat anyway." Turning her attention to the shorter girl, she continued "Hmmm you're so lucky Hayate-chan, my Fate-chan is kind with the raccoons." Releasing Fate from her cuddle Nanoha straightened her body and face Hayate.

"Well then, I will be your opponent. I must tell you that your powers are not enough to defeat me. You better get ready!" Nanoha dramatically clenched her left fist then putting her arms behind her back as she looked straight at Hayate confidently.

Making a flashy pose, putting a v-sign with her right hand in front of her left eye, Hayate proudly spoke "Ho! Ho! Ho! Nanoha-chan. You really don't understand it, do you? I, Hayate Yagami claim that the battle of Aces will be my victory! Ha ha ha!" Hayate responded in a guttural tone.

Face flushing red, slack-jawed at the silly actions of her friends, Fate thought to herself loudly, 'Mou! These two!' Sighing in disbelief, left hand on the hips, the young princess thought, 'I have heard and seen something outrageous again. I feel so embarrassed just by witnessing their actions and words. Heavens! Please take me away from here.' Fate put her right palm on her forehead mentally groaning, 'I could never be accustomed to this.'

Facing off at each other placing one hand flat out in front, palm up Hayate and Nanoha shouted in sync "Paper, Rock, Scissors!" Nanoha decided to choose paper while Hayate chose rock.

Teary-eyed Hayate exclaimed "Mou! Nanoha-chan! Why do you always win this game! I want to win too!"

Shaking the upset Hayate while laughing Nanoha replied "Niyahaha, Isn't it obvious Hayate-chan? I'm the ace of the aces! There's no way you can defeat me! Besides, your timing was not in sync. I can easily read you like a book." Nanoha proudly declare as she let go of Hayate. Then she spoke gently, "You'll be in trouble if you will play with the other kids, Hayate-chan. I'll teach you how to do it properly next time, neh?"

The brunette smiled and said "Cool! That would be so helpful, Nanoha-chan! Daisuki!"

Pulling Fate closer holding her hand while smiling at her, Nanoha continued to speak pointing her fingers at Hayate, "Saaah, my princess it's time to release your full power to crush that hyperactive raccoon." in a playful voice.

Fate turned her gaze to Hayate who was mysteriously grinning while staring at her and the auburn-haired girl, she spoke "Ehhto, Nanoha don't be so harsh with Hayate. She's our companion. I will not use my f-full p-p-power just to crush her. N-neh? He-he-he!" Still holding each others hand, Fate smiled at Nanoha awkwardly.

Giving Fate a little whimper Hayate protested "Mou! Fate-chan! Why am I just a companion? And not a friend? You make it sound like I am an animal! I've got this feeling that both of you are collaborating with each other in bullying me. The princess finally learned her lessons from me but to my surprise, I am her first victim." Hayate exclaimed.

Thinking about her counter-attack to tease the older girl, Hayate bent forward where she sat on the floor, pressing her palms to the mat pretending to cry she continued to speak "Fate-chan and Nanoha-chan can't stop holding each other in whatever we do, wherever we go, Nanoha-chan's arms were always entangled with Fate-chan. Ahhhh! Hands entwined with each other! Always lovey-dovey even in front of my innocence! Are you-'' panicking on what Hayate's spouting, Nanoha rushed towards Hayate to cover her mouth not giving her a chance to finish her silly talk.

Eyes wide, face flushed in embarrassment Nanoha spoke rapidly, "Nyahahah, Hayate-chan was being so silly talking like that! No more silliness, let's play!."

Then giving the shorter girl a push she said, "You're the first monkey, Hayate-chan! Therefore you will be the seeker!"

Wondering what the auburn-haired girl and the hyperactive raccoon were spouting, Fate inquired while she walked towards the two girls "Nanoha, aren't we supposed to play Rock, Paper, Scissors first?"

Hayate chortled on Nanoha's reaction "Niyahaha, Nanoha-chan! There is something that I needed to ask you but I'll let it slide for now. We must start the game." The little raccoon turned her attention to the confused Fate, tapping the princess shoulders with her two hands gently she spoke, "Hmmm I don't mind being the seeker Fate-chan, as long as the three of us can play together I am happy! Nanoha and I want you to enjoy the time the three of us are together. Besides, Nanoha-chan won earlier. You two are inseparable, right? Technically, you already won!"

Fate looked inquiringly at Nanoha, who just shrugged her shoulders accepting what the brunette girl had said. Sighing with relief Fate spoke "I'm glad to know that you are happy when you are playing with me and Nanoha. But, are you sure about being the first monkey Hayate?"

Dragging the two girls by their wrists while walking towards the door Hayate spoke happily "Yaaah! Besides, you don't know the rules of hide and seek yet, do you? Let's get out of this room and start the game! Make sure you will hide properly, princess!" The singsong voice of the brunette haired girl filled the room.

Once the three girls were outside the room, standing in front of the door Hayate stated the rules of the game giving her attention to Fate, "This door will be our home base. For now, I will be the seeker. I will close my eyes for a brief period. When I am done counting 100, I will try to find the hiders which will be you and Nanoha-chan."

Hayate smiled when she saw Fate looking at her attentively listening, then she continued. "While the seeker is away, the hiders try to run back to the home base. If all the hiders return safely, the seeker repeats as a seeker in the next round. You got it Fate-chan?"

Fate nodded in agreement and said happily "Yes, Hayate! Got it! Thanks for explaining the rules!"

Laughing a little Nanoha said, "That was such a serious tone Hayate-chan!"

Shaking her head in disagreement, placing a hand on Nanoha's shoulder Hayate said in a honeyed voice, "Ho ho! Don't start the tease, Nanoha-chan." Grinning, the brunette leaned over to her ears, she whispered "Or do you want me to continue teasing you about your beloved princess Naaa-noha-chaan?"

Tilting her head, a raised questioning eyebrow on her forehead, Fate inquired "What are you doing Hayate? Nanoha? Don't you know it's rude to whisper in front of other people? Could you please stop that?" The two girls turned their gazes to Fate when they heard her reprimanding them. The auburn haired girl rubbed her neck feeling awkward at hearing the princess's statement.

Ignoring Fate, the brunette continued to mumble into Nanoha's ears in a humming tune "Oh my! Nanoha-chan, take a good look at your lovely princess. Innocently tilting her head, she doesn't have any clue what we are talking about. She even reprimanded us. Hmm, Isn't she adorable?" Tapping Nanoha's shoulder the brunette continued "Hmmm, I remember something. She asked you to marry her right? And you said yes, didn't you?"

Face crinkled in embarrassed bewilderment Nanoha suddenly grabbed Fate's hand and started running down the corridors, ignoring the squeak of dismay she hushed the beginnings of the younger girl's complaints with a gentle squeeze to their entwined fingers while loudly saying "S-start counting Hayate-chan!"

Fate sighed as she knew once more she was doomed to be dragged around like a rag doll according to the auburn-haired girl's whims.

The two girls sneaked in the library. Still holding each others hands, both of them were trying to catch their breaths as they slump onto the sofa. As when they'd recovered their normal breathing the older girl rested her back on the back pillows, eyes closed while smiling victoriously.

Wondering, the young princess sat next to her leaning over surveying Nanoha's face. Their faces were few inches apart enough to feel each other's breaths. As when the older girl felt Fate was drawing her breath on her face, she opened her eyes only to realize that the distance of their lips were short. The auburn haired girl cupped Fate's cheek, rested her forehead against hers while staring at each other intensely, slowly rubbing her nose against the younger girl.

Face flushed in red, the princess bit her lip and glanced away from Nanoha. Stuttering, the young princess spoke, "W-w-what a-are you doing, Na-ho, Na-nanoha?" Fate sighed nervously then continued "I thought y-you w-were going to k-kiss me." Her right hand was resting on her chest, her heart was pounding so hard.

Placing her arms around Fate's neck, the older girl giggled while her eyes were shimmering she spoke "You're so adorable when you are stuttering, princess! Nyahaha! Of course! I rubbed my nose to yours, Fate-chan! That is called an Eskimo kiss! So, we did it!"

Fate put her palms on her burning cheeks she couldn't help smiling with her eyes and mouth at Nanoha then she spoke "An Eskimo's kiss? What's an Eskimo kiss? Mou! You look so happy Nanoha! But please, don't give me a heart attack." Fate took Nanoha's hand pressing it on her chest. "Here, listen to this, my heart is pounding so hard now because of what you did."

Eyes wide, parting her lips slightly the auburn-haired girl tilted her head to see the young princess face she spoke "Areee? You too Fate-chan? It's the same feeling when I am with you. I always have a quick breath and it feels like my heart is about to burst!"

Leaning her head on the princess's shoulder she continued "It makes me feel so good though. my heart wants to dance and sing. Since I've met you, this is what I've been feeling especially when you are smiling. I always wanted us to be together and cherish every moment we have before you leave."

Nanoha paused for a while, thinking about the brunette with a silvery voice she continued to speak "Hayate-chan too, she was really happy when I introduced her to you. She may be doing a lot of silly talks most of the time but she also cares for you and considers you a friend." The older girl yawned pulling the young princess down with her to lie on the sofa cuddling her like a bear.

Surprised on what Nanoha did Fate turned her head to face the older girl she asked "What are you doing Nanoha? It feels so tight in here, get off of me please."

Lying down on her side while cuddling to Fate comfortably squeezing her face gently towards hers, Nanoha reached out her left hand putting her thumb to the young princess lips to hush her grumblings "Shhh. Fate-chan, I'm sleepy. I want to take a nap for a while. Tone down your voice, please. It'd be better if you will be a good girl and just keep quiet. It's kinda cold in here so I am keeping you warm by snuggling you so no complaints." Her voice was hoarse with exhaustion.

Nanoha's sapphire eyes opened and closed sleepily while she was trying to hush Fate. Her eyelashes were brushing against her cheek whilst nuzzling her nose against the fussy girl. Nanoha's auburn hair now inches from her nose allowed the Nanohalike scent to reach her, it was too good for words and made the young princess smile while she was staring at the ceiling. "But, we are still playing hide and seek Nanoha. Hayate, she's looking for us. It wouldn't be nice if you just sleep here."

"Hayate-chan will surely find us here. She knows where I always hide. Don't worry Fate-chan. It's almost 2pm and I am sure she's also sleepy. Knowing her, she's too smart not to figure out where we are hiding. She'll get in here soon. Trust me." As soon as Nanoha was done speaking her eyelids closed instantly falling into a peaceful sleep in the arms of her friend.

While Fate was feasting her eyes on the sleeping Nanoha, she started to yawn. Releasing all her current thoughts her consciousness ebbed, her mind went into free fall as her vision started to dim finally smiling as she drifted off to sleep.

Ten minutes had passed since the two girls fell asleep on the sofa when Hayate entered the library, carrying two blankets in her hands. Seeing Fate and Nanoha sleeping peacefully whilst cuddled up with each other the brunette smirked scratching her head playfully. "I knew it! The kind of dash they did earlier make them feel exhausted." Hayate leaned over to cover the two girls tucking them with a blanket. "These two idiots, sleeping here without anything warm to cover them will surely make them sick." Hayate sighed in disbelief.

Gawking at the sight of her friends she smiled thinking that the two look so adorable together and said "You really like her, don't you Nanoha-chan? You've never been so happy until the princess came into your life. I wonder if you have already realized the kind of like you feel for her. From now on, I'm gonna tease you a lot every chance I get." The brunette haired girl yawned. "Ah, just looking at them makes me feel sleepy. Maybe I should sleep too." Settling down on the other side of the sofa covering herself with a blanket her eyes drooped closed.

-**o**-

As her body twisted away from Fate, eyes fluttered open in shocked from her slumber as Nanoha realized she was falling. In her distorted perception, it was in a slow motion, stretching wide the second it took her to reach the carpeted floor from the sofa face down on the floor, covered with the blanket that fell off with her.

Making a noise of dismay and pouting a little she clenched her left fist punching the floor in a small tantrum only to realize she was being silly hurting herself more. Nanoha exclaimed in frustration "Ouch! That hurts! Stupid floor! Baka! Baka! Baaaka!" Floundering on the floor like a fish, Nanoha noticed the blanket.

Grabbing ahold of the cover ready to strike the floor once more when she heard a croaky voice asking her a question "What are you doing on the floor, Nanoha?" Fate's brain was still fuzzy, yawning while rubbing her eye with her left finger her hair was tumbling down her back like a waterfall.

Nanoha nearly jumped out of her skin when she heard the young princess voice. Words failed to form in her mouth as she felt like an idiot with her actions. She stood up, tucking in Fate on the sofa caressing her hair to get her back to sleep. As soon as the princess fell back into her oblivion she smiled, gazing at the younger girl who was sleeping like a baby, Nanoha gently kissed her on the forehead. Then, she looked around, seeing Hayate sleeping face down on the other side of the couch without a pillow for her head. Nanoha sighed, grabbed one of the throw pillows and silently walked towards Hayate. Carefully lifting her head, she slid up the pillow below the brunette. "I hope this idiot won't get a stiff neck later." Leaning towards Hayate's ear Nanoha whispered "Thanks for the blanket, Hayate-chan."

Realizing that she was the only one who was awake, the older girl decided to head to the kitchen to ask the maids to make some afternoon snacks and drinks for the three of them. Leaving a note on the table containing:

"Fate-chan, Hayate-chan, if you wake up and I am still not around, do not go wandering off outside the library and just wait for me here. Getting some snacks for all of us!

Ps: Hayate-chan, please don't try to wake Fate-chan if you wake up first. Let her rest. Thanks!

Nanoha

-**o**-

Thirty minutes had passed when Nanoha came back to the library together with the two maids who were pushing a serving trolley filled with a variety of snacks such as dango, pockey biscuits, two castella pancakes sandwiched together with anko and whip cream and some choices of tea, milk and hot chocolate for the beverages.

Hayate was already awake sitting on a single armchair near the window reading a book while Fate was still sleeping soundly on the couch oblivious to what's happening around her. Nanoha walked towards Hayate, standing beside her, hands clutched behind her back as she was looking at what her friend was reading. There she saw a lot of photos of the night sky together with descriptions.

While continuously flipping the pages to another Hayate spoke "Tome of the Night Sky. This is one of my favorite books, Nanoha-chan. I have the complete set of this book at home but I couldn't find this volume in our library."

Hearing what Hayate said Nanoha smirked, speaking in a low stern tone she said "Baka-ne, Hayate-chan! That book is yours. You left it here months ago. Have you forgotten?"

The brunette haired girl closed the book, putting it on her lap while scratching her head facing Nanoha she said "Niyahahaha! Nanoha-chan! I didn't realize it was mine. I thought it was just the same book."

Raising her left eyebrow, gently poking Hayate with the index finger of her left hand on the girl's cheek Nanoha smiled, "You silly little raccoon! How can you not recognize the things that you own? Let me have that book first. I'll show you something."

Hayate handed over the book to the auburn-haired girl, as when she was already holding it, she opened the last page of the book and showed it to Hayate. "Look at this Hayate-chan, your initials are here. You can bring it back when you go home." Nanoha pointed out the initials H.Y. on the bottom part of the book.

The brunette pouted, her shoulders drooped when she heard the word home. "I'm not excited to go back home. That house is empty. Uncle Graham is not always around, and neither are the twins. Signum is busy with her military job. Shamal is a grown-up woman too. I cannot play with her." Hayate responded in a melancholic voice.

Nanoha placed her hand on Hayate's head, smiling gently to her, "Don't be sad Hayate-chan. This house is empty too. I cannot go outside either. You see, my dad seldom stays here and mom is busy with the company. Miyuki-neechan has classes too. I cannot play with other kids since I am studying at home just like you. So we are even! hahaha!" Tugging the shorter girl Nanoha spoke happily "Come on! I'll wake Fate-chan up so that we can start eating our snacks!" Nanoha walked over to the princess while grabbing ahold of Hayate. In just a few seconds, the two girls reached the sofa where the princess was sleeping peacefully, the auburn-haired girl sat down beside her head and started to poke the little princess softly on her cheeks, speaking gently she said "Fate-chan, Fate-chan! It's time to get up and eat our snacks, my princess."

Hearing the voice of the older girl, the princess stretched out her body like a lazy cat. Eyes were still closed, lying on her side with her head resting in the auburn-haired girl's lap, she wrapped her arms around Nanoha's waist to snuggle in and make herself comfortable in the warmth of her friend.

"Mou! It's hard to wake her up these days. She really feels safe when you're around, Nanoha-chan." Hayate spoke while filling a cup with milk. "I remember the first three nights I slept over here, Fate-chan was always the first one to wake up every morning and the last person to fall asleep at night." Hayate held up the cup of caramel milk in her right hand and winked at Nanoha.

Scratching her head in amusement, understanding what the brunette wanted to do the older girl smiled, thinking that the princess will be surely awakened by a small tease, "I guess, I'll just drink all the caramel milk since Fate-chan doesn't want to wake up, Hayate-chan."

The princess opened her eyes when she heard what Nanoha had said, smelling the sweet and thick caramelized flavored milk made her fuzzy brain come awake. Rubbing her face against the older girl's side, she moaned and spoke in a hoarse pleading voice "Na~no~ha, I want the caramel milk. Please don't drink it."

Hearing what the princess said, the two girls look at each other in a deadpan manner, trying to contain their laughter. The two of them knew that Fate would be so embarrassed when they start to laugh at her.

"Fate-chan, it's time to get off of me then. You can continue your sleep tonight little bear. Now, let's grab our snacks and drink our favorite hot drinks!" Nanoha's eyes lit up in excitement.

Fate released the older girl from her cuddle, firmly stretching her arms to Hayate while her gaze was fixed on the cup that the shorter girl was holding she spoke "Hayate, I want my caramel milk. Give it to me please."

Giving the princess a lopsided grin, waving her pointing finger in disagreement she said "Not so fast, Fate-chan. We need to sit down in chairs first, then I'll give this to you. Okay?" Fate nodded in agreement and scurried to sit in the chair without a single complaint. The three girls started to eat their snacks happily. Fate who was sitting beside Nanoha was silently eating her castella pancakes as she contemplated about the first time they had played tennis.

The brunette noticed that the princess was not saying a word since she started eating. Wondering at the silence of the younger girl, Hayate decided to ask her worriedly "Fate-chan? What's wrong? Still sleepy? Why are you so quiet?"

Leaning her right arm on the table, resting her chin on her hand Fate replied "I'm fine, Hayate. I was just thinking about why Nanoha named her special move 'Starlight Breaker'."

The auburn haired girl made a discreet cough, surprised by what she just heard from the princess. Rushing to get a drink, she accidentally took Fate's caramel milk and drank it all the way down. Realizing that the cup wasn't hers, she turned her gaze to the younger girl who was baffled by her actions, she immediately apologized and offered her own caramel milk. "I'm sorry Fate-chan, I thought it was my cup." Pushing the cup gently towards the princess she continued "Here's mine. You can have it. I haven't sipped on it yet."

Watching the blonde take the cup and take a sip she smiled at her. "As for your question my princess, I love the stars and the skies. They are astonishing! I also love to do stargazing. I've read some books about them but for me, stars made the night skies look magical." The auburn haired girl's eyes were shimmering while explaining "Even if it's dark, the tiny specks of lights can be seen even though they are millions of light years away from Earth. Every time I feel lonely at night, I will gaze upon them and I will no longer feel alone."

The young princess leaned forward to continue her inquisition "Why do stars twinkle then? What are light years?"

"Oh! Mom said stars do not twinkle. Light years? It's just the unit used to measure the distance from earth to other parts of the galaxy." Rubbing the nape of her neck, Nanoha started to feel uneasy. She knew that the princess will not stop asking her questions and she might not know how to answer properly.

Nose crinkled, confused about Nanoha's answer, Fate asked a repeated question. "If the stars do not twinkle, why do they twinkle every time I look at them?

"Let me answer that question, Fate-chan." Knowing that the auburn-haired girl might be having difficulties in explaining thoroughly to the princess, Hayate decided to butt in.

"What Nanoha-chan says is true. Stars in the skies do not twinkle. Let me ask you first, Fate-chan. Have you ever been out on a really hot day?" The brunette asked. The princess nodded and responded "Yes."

"Well, if you have Fate-chan, you may have noticed trees near the horizon is a bit wobbly or blurry. It looks strange, right? Something very similar is happening when we see stars twinkle in the night sky." Hayate explained, hoping that the princess could understand it without further explanations. Grinning a little, knowing that she just read this fact in a book a while ago.

Imagining what she had heard from Hayate's explanation, she smiled with her eyes sparkling Fate responded "Oh! Great! Now I understand! Thank you, Hayate, Nanoha."

Getting their socks knocked off by the young princess wits, the two girls exclaimed together "That was fast, Fate-chan!"

A raised questioning eyebrow formed on her forehead, wondering why the two girls were surprised she decided to ask "What's with the reaction? Am I not supposed to understand the explanation? Hayate? Nanoha?"

Pulling Fate closer, smiling to her as she was playing with the young princess's fingers Nanoha replied "No, Fate-chan. Hayate-chan and I were just impressed on how smart you are for your age. As you see, you're my little genius cuddle bear. So, don't think about it too much, neh?"

Looking at Fate's necklace, Nanoha asked: "Anyway, I am also interested about the lightning-shaped pendant of your necklace and why do you always wear that, aside from it looks great on you." The older girl deliberately changed the topic thinking that it would also be her chance to pry more into Fate's interests and life.

The younger girl touched her pendant, her mouth curved into a radiant smile that Nanoha loves to see "Oh, this necklace was given to me by my mom as a Christmas present. She knows how I love the lightning flashing in the skies especially during the thunderstorms. This is one of the most precious gifts that I have ever received."

"Aren't you afraid of lighting and thunder, Fate-chan?" Hayate asked.

Interested with what the princess had said, Nanoha followed up the question "Why do you love the thunderstorms, Fate-chan?"

Palms under her chin she replied "I love to feel the thunder, and watching the marvelous displays of the beauty of striking lightning holds me spellbound. It's frightening but it also gives me a thrilled feeling. It's an awesome show of the power of nature that encourages me to be strong and courageous." The young princess paused for a while, facing her friends she spoke in a serious tone "Hayate, Nanoha, when the time comes that you will feel lonely and sad, and there are no stars in the night skies caused by the storm, please do remember me." Stroking the pendant gently she smiled.

Understanding what the princess said, the two girls stood in awe. Hayate gave Nanoha a little push and spoke: "Can we have a group hug, please?" The auburn haired girl smiled and pulled the two girls to give them a big hug and said "Let's make a promise then, for the three of us! Fate-chan will be going somewhere far from here and we might not see each other again soon. That's a sad thing but we can always remember this day and that the three of us were together."

Fate bit her lip trying to suppress her tears, knowing that she will surely miss her friends, especially Nanoha. While Hayate wrapped her arms around the two girls, she sighed thinking that it won't be the same again by the time Fate left.

Stroking the hair of the two girls to make them feel at ease, the auburn-haired girl continued to speak in a fragile voice "When we feel blue, we must think that the stars will always be shining brightly in the night even if there's a frightening thunderstorm, the lightning will give us great courage and strength just as Fate-chan said. Even though the three of us will be separated into faraway places, the skies will always be our connection. We will always be friends!"

Nanoha paused, thinking about what kind of future will be there for the three of them, aware of their future responsibilities she sighed. The first tear broke free from her sapphire eyes to be followed by an unbroken stream she continued to speak, "We are all aware that we are not ordinary kids. We will be having a lot of responsibilities in the future. So, let's do our best to enjoy life while we are still growing. Hayate, Fate-chan we must do what normal kids do. We must sing and dance while we can; jump and play a lot, continue to dream, and hope that we can make all those dreams come true."

Breaking the hold, Hayate spoke trying to be jolly but failed to do so just by seeing Nanoha crying "I will join the promise! Enjoy life to the fullest!"

Gazing at her friends "Why are you crying, Nanoha?" Fate asked worriedly, wondering what made Nanoha cry she stretched out her hands to the auburn-haired girl's face, pressing her palms gently to her cheeks. "I promised that I will always remember you and Hayate. Don't be sad."

Teary-eyed Hayate butted in, "Silly Nanoha-chan, don't be a crybaby! We will just go and visit Fate-chan in the future. She'll come back to us! We can always exchange letters with her too."

Giving her friends a half-smile, the auburn-haired girl spoke, holding the princess hands on her face she said "We've got a promise then. We must send letters or communicate with each other."

Nodding in agreement, Fate answered "Of course, we will. I will ask Linith to help me communicate with you, Nanoha, Hayate."

Knock, knock, knock! A slight sharp sound got the attention of the three girls. To their surprised, the door opened revealing Miyuki and the silvery brown-haired woman wearing a beautiful smile on her face entering the library. As soon as Fate saw the woman she immediately hid from view behind Nanoha's back while strongly gripping on the girl's hand which made her wonder.

Knowing what it means for the silvery brown-haired woman to suddenly showed up in Takamachi's mansion, Fate felt something was squeezing her chest.

"W-what's wrong Fate-chan?" glancing sideways, sensitive to the younger girl's reaction just by seeing their guest, Nanoha asked to confirm her apprehension. Fate did not answer but instead, she just held her breath.

"Are you okay, Fate-chan? You look pale." Putting her hand to the princess' forehead, Hayate asked worriedly. The princess buried her face against Nanoha's back not wanting to answer their questions.

The silvery brown-haired woman, walked towards the girls, seeing how the princess was reacting made her realized that she was in distressed and didn't appreciate her presence. Knowing that the well-behaved princess will not complain, she also knew that it would hurt her so much to say goodbye to her friends.

Miyuki stood up beside the silvery brown-haired woman and introduced her to the girls "Nanoha-chan, Hayate-chan, this is Linith-san. Personal aid and bodyguard of Fate-sama. She came here today to pick up the princess."

"Linith-san, this is Nanoha-chan, uncle Shiro's daughter and Hayate-chan, Admiral Graham's niece."

"Good afternoon Nanoha-sama, Hayate-sama. Thank you for taking care of the princess." Bowing her head, Linith greeted the girls.

Nanoha slightly bowed her head, gaze fixed on the woman, tightening her grip on Fate's hand, she took a deep breath and spoke, "Why? It's too soon! We haven't played so much yet! Don't take Fate-chan away from us today, please!"

"Yes! Please, do not take her back now." Hayate second the plea.

"I must apologize ojou-samas but I'm afraid I can not fulfill your request. This is an order from the crown princess." Linith responded.

Hearing what Linith had said, not wanting her friends to plead knowing that her mom's order was absolute, Fate broke her hold to Nanoha's grip and walk towards her personal aide she spoke: "Are my things ready, Linith?"

"Everything was ready before we came to the library, Fate-sama." Linith replied.

"We can go now then." Fate responded without looking back at her friends.

Perceiving what the princess meant, Nanoha exasperatedly sighed, pressing her lips together annoyed at how Fate easily gave in to the order, she took a grip on Fate and Hayate's wrists and started to dash towards her room leaving the two adults with their mouths opened wide with her actions. Miyuki was about to storm off to follow and stop them when Linith stopped her and said: "Give them a little time to say their goodbye's, Miyuki-chan."

"Alright, let's just follow after them, Linith-san." Miyuki response and went off her way to Nanoha's room.

-**o**-

By the moment the three girls arrived in Nanoha's room, she slammed the door and locked it hoping that the princess will understand her plea, yearning for her to stay a little longer.

The two girls were breathing heavily, Hayate slumping over in the bed, she grumbled "Mou! Nanoha-chan, don't drag me like a ragdoll and go sprinting whenever you like! I cannot run as fast as you can."

Soon Nanoha's breathing came back under control, ignoring Hayate's complaint, she composed herself, set her gaze towards Fate, meeting her eyes she spoke "Fate-chan, don't go. Please, stay a little longer with us." Standing in front of Fate, she cup the princess cheeks in her hands, meeting her gaze, Nanoha solemnly said, "Stay with me. I don't want you to go Fate-chan. I want you to be with me every day. Don't go somewhere else."

With a heavy heart, Fate took a deep breath, feeling the warmth of Nanoha's hands she spoke "I have to go, Nanoha. I must follow what my mom has ordered us to do."

Tears filled up her sapphire eyes as she heard what the princess had said. Seeing the auburn-haired girl crying felt like something was piercing her heart but Fate tried her best to hold back her tears. Taking off her necklace from her neck, the younger girl decided to give Nanoha the most precious gift that she had received and could give, handing it over to her hand, she spoke "Nanoha, take this. Keep it for me until I come back to be with you again."

"But Fate-chan, this necklace was given by your mom and is very important to you." Hesitating Nanoha responded, thinking that the younger girl will be in trouble when her mother found out that she gave away her necklace. At the same time, feeling assured about the gesture of the princess giving her an important item that made her realized that Fate was serious about her promise.

The princess smiled and gave the auburn-haired girl a quick kiss on her forehead. "Keep it, for now, Nanoha." Not giving Nanoha chance to complain, she walked towards the table where her gatsby hat was, she picked it up and went to her brunette friend, placing on the hat on her friend's head she spoke "Hayate, you can have this. Please, take care of Nanoha."

Not expecting to receive something from the princess, Hayate thought of what to give her in return hoping that Nanoha will have the initiative to give Fate something valuable from her. The only thing that she can offer was her Tome of the Night Sky book which made her think that it somewhat has a connection between the three of them as friends "Here Fate-chan, please accept this book as a present from me! Please, don't forget about Naa-no-ha-chaaan and me! Ne?"

Hayate deliberately sang Nanoha's name to catch her attention. When the auburn-haired girl heard her name, she stared at the brunette trying to figure out what she wanted her to do. Hearing Fate saying "Thanks" to Hayate while accepting the book, she ran on her bed to take her most favorite precious stuffed bunny that was given by her dad during her sixth birthday, which Fate really loves to play before sleeping at night. Stretching out her arms to hand it over she spoke "Fate-chan, please take care of this little bunny too. I know you like this little gal and now I'm giving her to you."

"Thank you, Nanoha. I promise to carry her wherever I go so that I will always remember you." Receiving the stuffed animal from Nanoha made the princess feel so happy.

Knock, knock, knock! Hearing the sound from the door, Fate decided to say goodbye properly to her friends, hugging them as tight as she can she spoke feeling the lump in her throat "Farewell to you Nanoha, Hayate. We'll see each other again. Thank you for taking care of me." Breaking her hold to her friends, she walked towards the door and opened it, leaving the room without glancing back, her footsteps felt so heavy.

Nanoha tried to speak but words failed to come out from her mouth, watching her friend leaving the room. Feeling like an abandoned puppy, tears started streaming from her eyes again. Hayate who was also teary-eyed, wrapped her arms around Nanoha to calm her down, sniffing she said: "That idiot did not even manage to cry." Taking a deep breath, she continued "Don't worry, Nanoha-chan. We will see her again soon. Your mom will take care of it, neh?" Not receiving a response from Nanoha, Hayate sighed defeatedly.

-**o**-

As when Fate was already sitting beside Linith inside the backseat of the car, tears started to well in her eyes like streams of running water that she could no longer hold back. Silently crying, she embraced the book and the little bunny in her arms that was given by her friends, ignoring the person who was sitting next to her, stroking her hair trying to calm her down until they arrived on their home. Seeing the princess crying, the silver brown-haired woman felt pained. Only one time before had she seen Fate painfully crying like she's witnessing now, the first time Precia left her with the Harlaowns. The only difference was, she then she'd been terrified and started screaming very loud out of confusion at that time. There was a strong desperate emotional feeling that the princess felt when she had seen her mother leave her in her father's home especially since she'd just met him when she was five years old.

The amount of unconditional love and attachment that Linith had seen between Fate and her friends seems to be unlimited, which really made her think that the separation was so overwhelming for the princess, as a child.

Before Fate exited the car, she dried her tears with her hanky, she took a deep breath and composed herself. There were three people she met her on her way to the entrance of their home, wondering who are these people she stopped walking in front of them. Understanding the curiosity of the princess, Linith came to introduce the three persons. "Fate-sama, these were your new bodyguards." Gesturing her hands towards the tallest girl among the three she spoke "This is Signum Yagami. She's from the royal navy but now, will be serving you as your personal bodyguard." Hearing the family name of the pink haired woman sparked an interest in Fate, remembering her friend Hayate. "And this is Arf and Agito, Yagami-san's assistants. They will be in charge for you, Fate-sama."

"Good afternoon, princess." The three greeted her in sync. Fate nodded in response and continue to walk inside their home. Pausing her step for a moment she inquired of the pink haired woman "Signum Yagami, I can trust you, can't I?"

"I swear my loyalty to you, princess." The tall woman responded politely.

"Well then do me a favor after the dinner, Signum." Fate smiled happily thinking that her friends were not so hard to reach with the help of her new bodyguard which she thought might be related to Hayate.

"Yes, princess. Anything that you will order me to do so, I will gladly help." Signum replied.

"Thank you." Fate replied.

A loud squeak from her little sister caught her attention "Onee-sama! Onee-sama! Okairi!" Alicia welcomed her happily. Throwing herself at Fate almost overbalancing her posture, wrapping her hands around her onee-sama's waist, nuzzling her face on her chest she said "I missed you so much, Onee-sama! I was so lonely without you."

"Tadaima Alicia." Fate respond, giving her little sister a tight hug. "I missed you too." The kind of cuddle that Alicia giving her, made her remembered the happy times that she had spent with Nanoha, looking back on how the auburn haired girl possessively hugged her most of the time which made her feel that her existence is worthwhile being loved and wanted by the person she likes. With those kind of thoughts in her mind, she made a resolve to do everything she can to constantly communicate with her friends. Especially with Nanoha no matter what will happen and never to forget all the promises they made.

To be continued.

Please, review favorite or follow if you like the story. :D Thanks!

bubbleduckie: here ya go dear! more nanofate moments. 3

rijaja:Thanks for being so thoughtful! hope ya enjoy this chapter!