Chapter 00
In Stillness
The winter holiday had come to an end, and Midchilda gradually settled back into its usual rhythm. The thick snow that once blanketed the land was now receding, revealing glimpses of earth beneath. Though the air remained crisp with the lingering chill of winter, the sunlight carried faint warmth, a quiet promise of the approaching spring. The transition between seasons was subtle yet unmistakable—while snow still clung stubbornly to the shaded corners of buildings and the bases of trees, the first signs of budding life began to emerge from the frost-kissed ground.
The streets echoed with the soft sounds of melting snow, the rhythmic drip-drip of water falling from rooftops and tree branches filling the air. Icicles, once sharp and imposing, now hung in fragile, glistening remnants, slowly yielding to the sun's gentle touch. It was as if the world itself was stirring from a deep slumber, embracing the renewal that lay ahead.
For most, this marked a return to routine—a familiar cycle of school, work, and everyday life. But for Einhard and Ave, it was a time of focused preparation. The promised day was drawing near—the day they would once again step into Katsumi's world. The thought filled them with both excitement and determination, and every moment was spent on preparing themselves for the journey ahead.
The first light of dawn painted the sky in soft hues of gold as Einhard and Ave began their usual morning jog. The crisp air carried the fresh scent of melting snow, a quiet reminder that winter was coming to an end. Frost still clung to the tree branches lining the path, but here and there, tiny green buds peeked through—signs of new life stirring beneath the lingering cold.
"Haru, look." Ave's voice was warm as he pointed to a small patch of snowdrops breaking through the snow. "The first flowers of spring."
Einhard slowed, her mismatched purple and blue eyes widening slightly. Crouching down, she studied the delicate white blooms, her silvery-green twin tails swaying behind her. Against the fading remnants of winter, the flowers looked fragile—yet their presence was proof of nature's quiet resilience.
"They're pretty." Her voice was soft, almost thoughtful. She reached out, her gloved fingers grazing the petals with the same gentleness she used when handling Asteion. "They must've had a tough time growing in this cold."
Ave crouched next to her, watching her expression. "Yeah. But even when it's rough, they find a way to bloom." He smiled, his breath visible in the cold air. "Kind of like you, Haru."
Einhard blinked, glancing up at him. "Me?"
"You've been working hard—your training, helping with Astraea II and Proto XN Unit tests, everything." His gaze was steady. "Even when things get tough, you keep going. You're strong, Haru. Stronger than you think."
Her cheeks tinged with warmth, though whether from his words or the cold morning air, she wasn't sure. "…I just do what I can," she murmured. "But sometimes, I wonder if it's enough."
Ave reached out, gently brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "It is. You don't have to carry everything by yourself, you know." His touch lingered just slightly before he pulled back, his smile easy. "Besides, I like you just the way you are."
Einhard lowered her gaze, her fingers curling slightly against her gloves. Just the way I am… It wasn't the first time Ave had told her something like that. But every time, the way he said it made her feel—lighter. As if the weight she didn't even realize she carried had eased, just a little.
"…Thanks, Ave-kun." Her voice was quieter, but the corners of her lips lifted into a small smile. "I'll keep doing my best. Not just for me—but for you, too."
Ave chuckled, his grin turning playful. "Well, yeah. That's what being a couple's about, right? Having each other's backs."
Einhard exhaled, half amused, half exasperated. "You say that so easily…"
He nudged her lightly with his elbow. "That's 'cause I mean it."
Shaking her head, she let out a small laugh. Ave was Ave—steadfast, confident, and always moving forward. And somehow, being by his side made it easier to do the same.
After a moment, she pushed herself to her feet, dusting the snow from her knees. "We should keep going, or we'll be late."
Ave stood as well, stretching briefly before flashing her a grin. "Right. But remember, whatever happens—Astraea II, Katsumi's world, or anything else—we face it together."
Einhard met his gaze, her mismatched eyes steady. "Yeah. Together."
As they resumed their jog, a quiet resolve settled in her chest. The snowdrops, small but unwavering, reminded her that strength wasn't always about being the toughest or the strongest—it was about enduring, about moving forward, even when things got difficult.
The golden light of the rising sun stretched across the path ahead, and Einhard exhaled, letting the crisp air fill her lungs. No matter what comes next, I'll keep going. For myself. For Ave-kun. And for everyone who believes in me.
Later that afternoon, after Ave picked Einhard up from school, the two of them arrived at the Technical Division's Research and Development Facility. The sleek, modern structure stood in contrast to the fading traces of winter outside, where the last patches of snow melted away, giving way to early signs of spring. Inside, the facility buzzed with activity—engineers and technicians moved about, their voices blending with the hum of machinery.
Einhard adjusted the strap of her school bag as they stepped inside, her long silvery-green hair tied into twin tails with red ribbon that swayed with her movements. She wore the St. Hilde Academy uniform: a crisp white blouse with a neatly tied red ribbon under the collar, accented by dark green trim. Her deep green jumper dress, laced at the waist in a corset-style fashion, gave her a composed yet refined appearance, complemented by knee-high socks and polished boots. Though she still carried an air of quiet confidence, her demeanor had softened since she started dating Ave. Her once intense presence now more relaxed.
Beside her, Ave carried himself with his usual easygoing confidence, hands in his pockets as he took in the facility. His gaze soon landed on a familiar figure near the entrance—Vivio. Her long golden-blonde hair was tied into a side ponytail with a dark blue ribbon, contrasting with Einhard's twin tails. Though wearing the same St. Hilde Academy uniform, her more developed figure and self-assured posture gave her a mature air despite being two years younger. When her mismatched green and red eyes spotted them, they sparkled with excitement.
"Ah! Einhard-san! Ave-nii!" Vivio's face lit up as she greeted them with a cheerful wave. "Good afternoon!"
Einhard blinked, tilting her head slightly. "Vivio-san? What are you doing here?"
Vivio beamed. "Nanoha-mama dropped me off earlier! Mariel-san invited me to help with the Mobile Trace System tests."
Ave nodded, recalling Mariel mentioning that. "Right, Chief Mariel wanted you to participate for a while now. Your unique abilities could give them some useful data."
Einhard's eyes widened slightly, her heterochromatic gaze reflecting admiration. "I see… That's great, Vivio-san. I'm sure your help will be valuable."
Vivio grinned. "Yeah! I'm really excited! I've always wanted to see how the Mobile Trace System works up close. It's seriously cool tech!"
Einhard smiled at her enthusiasm but couldn't help a fleeting moment of self-consciousness as she glanced at Vivio. She's always so confident… A faint blush touched her cheeks. I wish I could be that bold sometimes…
Ave, noticing her expression, gently nudged her shoulder. "Haru? You're thinking too much again."
Einhard blinked and looked at him, shaking off her thoughts. "Ah… No, it's nothing, Ave-kun. I was just… thinking about how enthusiastic Vivio-san is. It's nice."
Vivio tilted her head, studying Einhard curiously. "Eh? Einhard-san, is something bothering you? You can tell me, you know."
Einhard quickly shook her head. "No, no, it's nothing like that. I was just… admiring how confident you are, Vivio-san. It's something I respect about you."
Vivio's expression softened, and she stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on Einhard's shoulder. "Einhard-san, you're plenty confident in your own way! You're always so calm and reliable. That's something I really admire."
Einhard's eyes widened slightly before warmth filled her chest. "Vivio-san… Thank you."
Ave chuckled. "See, Haru? Even Vivio thinks you're amazing. You've got nothing to worry about."
Einhard looked away, cheeks lightly flushed, though a small smile tugged at her lips. "You two are too nice…"
Vivio giggled. "We're just telling the truth! Oh, right—are you two here to help with the tests too?"
Ave nodded, his expression shifting slightly. "Yeah. We're running more tests on the Proto XN Unit. It's been acting up a bit, and we need to sort things out before heading to Katsumi's world."
Einhard glanced at Ave, her gaze softening. "Ave-kun's been working hard on it. I've helped where I can, but this is really his area of expertise."
Vivio's eyes sparkled. "That's so cool! You're like a real engineer, Ave-nii! I bet you'll have it working in no time."
Ave rubbed the back of his neck, a modest smile on his face. "Well, I'm trying. But it's not just me—Haru's been a huge help too. She's got an amazing eye for details."
Einhard clutched the notebook in her hands a little tighter, her voice quiet. "I… I just want to make sure everything goes smoothly. It's important."
Vivio smiled warmly and gave Einhard's arm a gentle pat. "You always work so hard, Einhard-san. I really admire that about you."
Einhard met Vivio's gaze, and in that moment, she felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. …Thank you, Vivio-san.
As they stood together, a quiet sense of understanding passed between them. With Ave-kun and Vivio-san by my side… I feel like we can take on anything.
Inside the testing area, Vivio adjusted the sleek, form-fitting suit required for the Mobile Trace System. The snug material accentuated her athletic figure, but she wore it with effortless confidence. Einhard stood at the sidelines, notebook in hand, quietly observing as Vivio stretched in preparation for the test. A mix of admiration and self-consciousness welled up inside her. She cast a brief glance down at her own slender frame, her mismatched purple and blue eyes reflecting a flicker of uncertainty.
Vivio-san is so different from me… She's always so sure of herself, always ready to take on anything without hesitation. Einhard's fingers lightly traced the edges of her notebook, a familiar habit whenever she was lost in thought. I've always been more cautious, more reserved… But maybe that's something I can change.
"Aren't you nervous, Vivio-san?" she asked, her voice quiet yet curious. She twirled a strand of silvery-green hair around her finger, an unconscious gesture she had never quite shaken.
Vivio shook her head, her expression bright. "Not at all! I've been training hard, and I'm ready for this. Besides, trying new things is fun, don't you think?" Her mismatched green and red eyes gleamed with excitement, her energy infectious.
Einhard gave a small nod, though her gaze remained thoughtful. "Maybe… but I've never been too comfortable with wearing the suit." She glanced down at her notebook again, fingers idly brushing the paper's edge. Why is it so easy for Vivio-san to be confident? She's so strong and sure of herself…
Vivio tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "Oh? How come, Einhard-san?"
Einhard hesitated for a moment before answering, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "Well… it's kind of revealing, isn't it?" She fidgeted slightly, hands gripping the hem of her jumper dress. "It just… feels a little embarrassing."
Vivio let out a lighthearted laugh, her tone warm and reassuring. "I get it, but it's all for the sake of science, right? And besides, you're really strong, Einhard-san. You don't have to worry about what other people think." She placed a hand on her hip, striking a confident pose. "And if anyone's got a problem with it, they can take it up with me!"
Einhard's eyes softened, and a small smile played at her lips. "Thanks, Vivio-san… That means a lot coming from you." Gentle warmth spread through her chest, easing some of the doubt lingering in her mind. Vivio-san is always so kind and encouraging… Maybe I should try to be more like her.
Vivio studied her with a fond expression. Einhard-san is so strong, but she doesn't always see it herself. Her grin widened. She works so hard for everyone, always so kind and thoughtful. I just wish she could see how incredible she really is.
Then, with a playful glint in her eye, Vivio leaned in slightly. "Oh, and by the way…" She lowered her voice to a teasing whisper. "Ave-nii definitely thinks you look great no matter what you wear, so you don't need to worry about him either."
Einhard instantly turned red, her head snapping to the side as she covered her face with both hands. "V-Vivio-san! That's not the problem here!" Her voice rose slightly in flustered protest. Why does she have to bring up Ave-kun at a time like this?!
Vivio laughed, clearly enjoying the reaction. "I'm just saying! You two are so cute together, it's impossible not to tease you a little." She winked, her playful energy making it hard to stay mad.
Einhard let out a small sigh, though the corners of her lips betrayed an amused smile. "You're impossible, Vivio-san…" But despite her embarrassment, she couldn't deny that Vivio's words had helped in their own way. Maybe I shouldn't worry so much about what others think… Ave-kun has always made me feel at ease, and Vivio-san's confidence is something I can learn from.
Vivio glanced back at the testing area, her excitement undeterred. She's been opening up more lately… I think Ave-nii's been a really good influence on her. It's nice seeing her relax a little. A warm feeling settled in her chest. If a little teasing her helps, then I'll keep doing it!
As Vivio stepped forward, ready to begin the Mobile Trace System trial, Einhard watched her with newfound admiration. Vivio-san is strong—not just in battle, but in the way she carries herself. I want to be more like that… more confident, more fearless. She glanced down at her notebook, where training plans for both of them were sketched out in neat handwriting. Maybe this journey to Katsumi's world will be a chance for me to grow, too.
After the tests, Ave approached Einhard and Vivio as they took a break in the facility's lounge area. The room was quiet, save for the faint hum of machinery in the background. Einhard sat with a cup of tea in hand; her mismatched purple and blue eyes watching the steam rise as she took a slow sip. Vivio, on the other hand, was animatedly recounting her experience with the Mobile Trace System tests, her enthusiasm practically radiating from her.
Ave leaned against the doorway, watching them for a moment before stepping forward.
"Hey, Haru," he greeted casually, though there was a hint of seriousness in his tone. He scratched the back of his head—a habit of his whenever he was about to bring up something important. "I've been thinking… What if Vivio joined us when we visit Katsumi's world?"
Einhard blinked in surprise, nearly spilling her tea. "Vivio-san? Coming with us?" she echoed, her voice calm but laced with curiosity. She turned to Vivio, whose mismatched green and red eyes had gone wide with excitement.
"Really?! I can go?!" Vivio practically burst out, bouncing in her seat. Her golden-blonde hair swayed with the movement, and her entire face lit up with pure excitement. "That sounds awesome! Another world?! With you two?! This is gonna be the best!"
Ave chuckled at her reaction, a small smile playing on his lips. "Figured you'd say that. You'd be a great addition to our team, and I doubt Nanoha-san and Fate-san would mind."
Einhard hesitated, her gaze shifting between Ave and Vivio. Vivio-san, huh… She knew how strong Vivio was—stronger than most people their age, and even in ways Einhard herself wasn't. But more than that, Vivio had energy, a natural brightness that could change the entire mood of a room.
Would I be able to keep up with her?
The thought flickered through her mind for just a moment before she pushed it aside. Watching Vivio's eager expression, any hesitation she felt began to fade.
"I think it's a good idea," Einhard said finally, setting down her teacup. Her voice was calm, but there was warmth behind it. "Vivio-san's strong. Having her with us would make the journey more special."
Vivio beamed. "Thanks, Einhard-san! Ave-nii! I won't let you down!" She clenched her fists in front of her chest, her determination shining through. "I'll train even harder to make sure I'm ready!"
Einhard smiled, her purple and blue eyes softening as she met Vivio's gaze. "I know you will, Vivio-san. I'm looking forward to introducing you to Yuki-san and the others." Her expression turned thoughtful. "They're going to like you."
Vivio tilted her head. "Yuki? Who's that?"
"She's one of the people we met in Katsumi's world," Einhard explained. "Kind and strong. I think you'll get along."
Vivio's eyes sparkled. "That just makes me want to go even more! What's Katsumi's world like, Ave-nii? Is it really different from Midchilda?"
Ave crossed his arms, his expression turning thoughtful. "Yeah, it's… unique. The tech's different; the way people live is different… You'll see when we get there."
Einhard's gaze drifted to the window as memories of Katsumi's world filled her mind. After a pause, she began speaking, her voice quieter, but carrying a sense of wonder.
"Katsumi's world is a massive metropolis," she began, eyes distant as she pictured it. "A maze of skyscrapers, covered in glass and steel. At night, the whole city lights up—neon signs, holographic billboards, all reflecting off the buildings. It's like the entire place is glowing."
Vivio's eyes widened. "That sounds amazing! Totally different from Midchilda!"
"It is," Einhard agreed. "But what makes it really special is the way technology and mysticism mix. AI systems, quantum computers, energy drawn from both science and magic… The whole city runs on it. But under all that, there's another side. Strange things happen there—things no one can explain. And in the shadows, supernatural entities lurk, waiting for the right moment to strike."
Vivio leaned forward, intrigued. "Supernatural? Like what?"
"Creatures that shouldn't exist," Einhard answered. "They're drawn to the city's energy—tech and magic both. That's why there are groups to keep them in check. Like the Attacked Mystification Police, or AMP, in which Yuki-san and others are belong to. She and her team use their abilities to keep the city safe."
Ave nodded. "It's a world of contrasts—light and shadow, order and chaos. You never know what's waiting around the corner."
Vivio's mismatched eyes sparkled. "This just keeps sounding cooler and cooler! I can't wait to see it all for myself!"
Einhard watched Vivio's excitement, a warmth spreading through her chest. She's so full of energy… A small smile tugged at her lips. Over the past year, she had changed. Becoming Ave's girlfriend had mellowed her out—she didn't feel the same pressure to constantly prove her strength or suppress what she felt. Being around Ave and Vivio had taught her to appreciate the present and to enjoy the small moments.
But as she thought about Katsumi's world, a flicker of apprehension crept in. It's not just some adventure… It's dangerous. We don't know what we might face.
Her gaze shifted to Ave, who was now explaining the city's transport system to Vivio, completely at ease. His confidence reassured her, and she let out a slow breath.
We'll face it together. Just like we always have.
As the day wound down, Vivio waved goodbye with a bright smile, her golden-blonde hair catching the last glimmers of sunlight. "See you tomorrow, Einhard-san! Ave-nii!" she called out, her mismatched green and red eyes gleaming with excitement.
Einhard returned the wave, a small smile on her lips, before settling onto a bench outside the facility. The evening sky stretched before her in soft hues of orange and pink. A gentle breeze carried the lingering warmth of the day as Ave soon joined her, sitting beside her with a relaxed sigh.
For a while, they sat in comfortable silence, the cool air brushing against them. Ave stole a glance at Einhard, noticing the thoughtful look in her eyes.
"You're quiet, Haru," he said, his voice gentle yet curious. "Something on your mind?"
Einhard exhaled softly, her gaze still fixed on the horizon. The fading light reflected in her mismatched purple and blue eyes. "…Just thinking. It is about how everything's coming together. Vivio-san joining us, the progress with the Mobile Trace System, the Proto XN Unit's tests… It feels like everything is lining up, like it was meant to happen."
Ave leaned back against the bench, thoughtful. "Belldandy-san once said that there's no such thing as coincidence. Maybe this is all part of a bigger plan."
Einhard blinked at his words, turning to him with a hint of wonder. "That… might be true. Vivio-san deciding to join us, the way things are falling into place—it's kinda strange, isn't it?"
Ave chuckled, his tone warm. "You always think about things like that, Haru. Looking deeper, searching for meaning."
A faint blush rose to Einhard's cheeks as she lowered her gaze to her hands resting in her lap. "…Maybe. But lately, I feel like I don't have to think so hard about everything. Like I can just let things happen without worrying too much. Maybe it's because of you, Ave-kun."
Ave's expression softened as he reached over, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "That's a good thing, Haru. You've always been strong, always pushing forward. But you don't have to carry everything alone."
Einhard glanced down at their intertwined hands, warmth spreading through her chest. "Yeah… I think being with you makes it easier. It's like… I don't have to hold onto everything by myself anymore."
Ave's smile was reassuring. "That's what partners are for. We're in this together."
Einhard's smile grew as she turned back to the horizon, the sky now shifting into deep shades of purple and blue. No matter what happens, we'll face it together. You, me, and Vivio.
Ave nodded, his voice steady. "Especially now, with Vivio joining us, we've got an even stronger team. I know we can handle whatever comes our way."
Einhard thought about Vivio—her energy, her confidence. "Vivio-san… she's always so bright, so determined. It somehow is inspiring. I think having her with us makes this journey even more meaningful."
Ave chuckled. "Yeah, Vivio's definitely a force of nature. But don't sell yourself short, Haru. You're just as inspiring."
Einhard felt another blush creep in and averted her gaze. "Thanks, Ave-kun… That means a lot."
The evening air was filled with the quiet sounds of the world settling into night. Einhard's thoughts drifted—Vivio's enthusiasm, Ave's unwavering support, and the friends they would reunite with in Katsumi's world.
Maybe Belldandy-san was right. Maybe everything really is happening for a reason.
As the first stars flickered in the night sky, Einhard felt a calm determination settle over her. She turned to Ave, her mismatched eyes filled with quiet resolve. "Ave-kun… whatever happens, I know we'll get through it."
Ave smiled, full of confidence and affection. "That's the spirit, Haru. We've got this."
Einhard nodded, leaning slightly against him as a sense of peace washed over her. For the first time in a long while, she truly felt at ease—ready to face whatever lay ahead.
To Be Continued…