Beyond The Aurora
~ Departure For Never Ending Tomorrow ~
By: Andou Masaki
Disclaimer
The following franchises and properties are acknowledged as belonging to their respective rights holders: Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's, Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS, Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Reflection, Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Detonation, Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha ViVid, ViVid Strike and Magical Record Lyrical Nanoha Force owned by Seven Arcs and King Amusement Creative. Sunrise and Namco Bandai own Mobile Suit Gundam 00, Super Robot Wars and Mobile Suit Gundam F90FF. SEGA own Valkyria Chronicles. From Software own Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, and I own my original character, Ave.
Beyond The Aurora is a series of multiple one-shot and short stories that explores the dynamic relationship between Ave and Hayate, both professionally and in private. Set within the established timeline of End Of The Eternity, this story emphasizes character interactions over action.
Please enjoy.
Sincerely;
Andou Masaki
"Someone once said…"
"Even though each one of us took a different route here, it's alright…"
"Through trials and uncertainty, as we met and parted…"
"Yet, this very bond that we form and nurture together has created this world of today and tomorrow…"
"And this world that we have created together with others is beautiful, indeed…"
Shario Finieno's cheerful voice rang through the room as she leaned in, peeking over Ave's shoulder. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she scanned the schematic of the GN-001REIII Gundam Exia Repair III on the computer screen in front of them.
"Did you find it interesting, Ave-kun?" she asked, tilting her head slightly to catch his expression. Her fingers tapped the desk in an idle rhythm, betraying her growing excitement.
Ave's gaze lingered on the screen for a moment before shifting to meet hers. His calm demeanor remained unchanged, though his tone carried a measured certainty as he replied, "Its overall performance should be equivalent to Celestial Being's fourth-generation Gundams, like the 00 Gundam. The real test, however, lies in the combat simulation this afternoon. I'll have more to say once we see how it performs in action."
With deliberate ease, he handed her a thin A4 folder. Shari accepted it eagerly, a broad smile spreading across her face as she flipped it open.
"From what Mary-san told me, Exia Repair III is a refurbished and upgraded version of Exia Repair II—the one you piloted during the final months of the First Defensive War," she remarked, skimming through the contents with practiced ease. "Its combat performance should also be on par with ESUN's latest combat units as well, don't you think?"
Ave allowed himself the faintest smile at her enthusiasm. "We'll find out soon enough. This afternoon's test will give us all the answers. I'll also be experimenting with its new armaments."
Shari chuckled, snapping the folder shut with a soft clap. "I can't wait to see it in action, Ave-kun. Oh, and Technical Division 4 is field-testing Instructor Takamachi's EM Equipment—the Pile Smasher. Caledfwlch Techniques really outdid themselves with that one."
"It's good to see you so enthusiastic," Ave replied, his own smile softening. "What do you think of the blueprints in that folder?"
Shari's curiosity reignited as she reopened the folder, her gaze falling on the schematics for Project Prominence's XFJ Program and Phantom Works. The designs for the XFJ-01 Shiranui Second and the F-15SE Silent Eagle, along with its Japanese export variant, the Test Type-02 Gekkō, filled the pages.
"Both are solid designs," she said after a brief study. "But knowing you, you probably favour the Silent Eagle for its stealth capabilities, right?"
Ave nodded thoughtfully. "You're not wrong. Still, I think it would be ideal for the Empire of Japan to adopt both the Shiranui Second and the Silent Eagle. Flexibility in tactics and combat doctrine could prove invaluable, especially against threats beyond the BETA."
Shari's smile dimmed slightly as she looked up at him. "You're worried about what's coming, aren't you?"
Ave didn't respond immediately. His gaze drifted back to the screen, where the Exia Repair III's schematic glowed faintly. Break The World, Sealing Conflict, Phantasmal Blaze Incident, Fuyuki's Fifth Holy Grail War and the First Defensive War changed everything. Timelines intertwining, entire worlds merging… It's impossible not to worry.
Sensing the weight of his thoughts, Shari's expression softened. "Even if the world keeps changing, Ave-kun, it's not all bad," she said gently. "These changes brought us together, didn't they? And they gave us the strength to protect what matters."
Her words lingered in the air, warm and sincere, cutting through the shadows in his mind. Ave turned to her, and for a rare moment, gratitude flickered in his eyes.
"You're right. It's easy to lose sight of that sometimes."
Shari's smile brightened. "Exactly! And besides, we're not alone in this. Everyone is counting on you, Ave-kun, but we're here for you too. Always."
Ave's gaze held hers for a moment longer, her words chipping away at the walls he had built around himself. I want to believe that. But after everything… can I really afford to?
Before he could dwell on the thought, Shari's mischievous grin returned. She tilted her head, eyes dancing with amusement as she asked, "Speaking of strength, I heard you have another kind of test later today. Meeting with Director Carim and Admiral Leti, as well as dinner with Hayate-san, right?"
Ave blinked, momentarily caught off guard. The shift in her tone pulled him out of his own thoughts. "Commander Yagami invited me for dinner. She wanted to thank me for helping her during the Frozen Teardrop Incident."
Shari's grin widened knowingly. "Oh, Ave-kun, you're so clueless—or just pretending to be. Hayate-san wouldn't invite you to dinner just to say thank you. She loves you, you know."
Ave's calm facade wavered ever so slightly. He wasn't the type to fluster easily, but something about Shari's teasing tone—and the absolute certainty in her words—unsettled him. Hayate-san… loves me? The thought was almost ridiculous.
"Commander Yagami is friendly with everyone. I'm not special to her," He countered, but even he could hear the weak deflection in his own voice.
Shari sighed, shaking her head as she leaned forward slightly. Her teasing playfulness faded into something quieter, more earnest. "You're wrong, Ave-kun. She's always looking out for you, spoiling you like her own family." Her voice lowered, carrying a weight that was impossible to ignore. "You're special to her, whether you realize it or not. And not just because of what you can do—but because of who you are."
She studied him closely, hoping her words would reach him. Ave-kun… You're always carrying everything alone, aren't you? Even when people care about you, you still push them away. But Hayate-san isn't just someone who admires you—she cherishes you. I just wish you'd see that.
Ave's gaze dropped to the desk, his fingers curling slightly. "Even if that's true, it doesn't change the fact that my choices have dragged everyone into this conflict. I don't want to pull Commander Yagami deeper than she already is."
Shari's heart clenched at the sheer weight in his voice. She wanted to argue, to tell him he deserved love just as much as anyone else. But before she could find the right words, Ave stood.
"I'll be heading to the hangar," he said, his tone signalling the end of the conversation. "The Exia Repair III won't test itself."
She watched as he turned away, his steps measured but carrying heaviness she had come to recognize all too well. Clutching the folder, she exhaled softly, frustration mixing with determination.
"You're not as alone as you think, Ave-kun," she murmured under her breath. "And I hope one day, you finally realize that… no matter what."
The moment Ave settled into the cockpit of the Gundam Exia Repair III, he felt an unmistakable sense of familiarity tinged with something new. The spacious interior was illuminated by the soft glow of the 360-degree panoramic monitor, its seamless projection giving the illusion of floating in open space. The refined man-machine interface responded to his slightest touch, syncing with his instincts in a way that made piloting feel almost effortless. Compared to the Gespenst Haken or the Gundam Astraea—both Types A and B—this cockpit was an evolution.
He flexed his fingers over the controls, testing their responsiveness. This is a league beyond what Exia was before.
As the system finalized boot-up, Exia Repair III's schematics flickered to life before him, highlighting its key improvements. The first thing that caught his attention was the newly developed GN Sword III. The folding mechanism had been refined, allowing it to deploy with a fluidity that outclassed the Proto GN Sword used in Astraea. A quick glance at the weapon's diagnostics confirmed what the manual had stated that morning—the GN Condenser edge technology, an evolution of the Exia Repair II's GN Sword Modified, drastically increased cutting efficiency. In theory, it was now capable of slicing clean through any Luna Titanium and composite E-carbon armour.
But what intrigued him most was the experimental GN Long Rifle mounted on Exia Repair III's left arm. Its design, inspired by the Cherudim Gundam's GN Sniper Rifle II, granted the Exia unprecedented long-range precision capabilities. The integration of crystal sensor technology—drawn from both the Cherudim and 00 Gundam's GN Sword II—enhanced its accuracy significantly.
Ave exhaled softly as he studied the weapon data. With this, Exia finally has an answer to long-range combat... but does that mean Lyle's Dynames SAGA is outdated now?
Reinforce Eins' soft and measured voice pulled him from his thoughts.
"I doubt that would be the case, Meister Ave."
Her petite figure, barely 5.1 inches tall, hovered beside him, a gentle presence amidst the cold steel of the cockpit. The soft luminescence of her holographic projection bathed her in an ethereal glow, her long silver hair shifting like mist in a breeze that wasn't there. With the elegance that defined her, she gracefully perched on his right shoulder.
"Since Gundam Exia Repair III was designed with you as its Meister in mind, its core principles remain unchanged."
Ave turned to her, curiosity sparking in his eyes. "What do you mean by that, Eins?"
Her expression remained serene as she explained. "While the GN Long Rifle expands Exia's combat potential, it does not redefine its identity as a close-combat unit. Your fighting style is at its peak in melee engagements, and this new weapon simply grants you additional versatility. It allows you to maintain your strengths while gaining more flexibility in battle."
Ave nodded thoughtfully, her words settling into place. "So, unlike Lyle's Dynames SAGA, which was designed exclusively for long-range sniping, Exia Repair III is still fundamentally a close-quarters machine. The rifle is just a support tool."
Reinforce Eins smiled, her eyes holding a quiet certainty. "Precisely, Meister Ave. It is not a replacement for a dedicated long-range unit but an extension of your combat potential."
Ave leaned back slightly, allowing himself a small breath of reassurance. Eins always knows how to put things into perspective.
As they continued calibrating the GN Long Rifle, Reinforce Eins' tone softened.
"Meister Ave, may I ask you something?"
Ave immediately caught the shift in her voice. "Of course. Is this about Hayate-san?"
Reinforce Eins hesitated, then nodded. "Yes. I've noticed that whenever someone mentions her, you seem... troubled."
Ave's fingers stilled over the console. His posture remained composed, but inside, a familiar weight settled over his thoughts.
So, she noticed after all.
He exhaled, a wry smile ghosting his lips. "Sometimes, I wonder if I truly deserve the kindness that Hayate-san and you have shown me."
Reinforce Eins studied him intently. "Is this because of what happened to miss Vivio and miss Isara?"
Ave's gaze darkened slightly, his voice quieter than before. "Yeah... I still regret the decisions that led to their injuries. If I'd listened to Lelouch-san that day, maybe things would have turned out differently."
Reinforce Eins watched him with quiet sorrow. Meister Ave... Even now, you carry this burden alone.
She gently placed a tiny hand on his shoulder. "No one could have foreseen that ambush, not even mister Lelouch. The enemy's tactics were beyond what anyone expected."
Ave clenched his jaw. "That doesn't change the fact that it was my oversight. If I make a similar mistake again... what if it's Hayate-san next time? Or you?"
Reinforce Eins felt a pang in her heart at the sheer weight in his voice. Even after all this time, he refuses to forgive himself...
"You've always done your best to protect us, Meister Ave," she said gently. "Meister Hayate and I both know that. We would never blame you if something went wrong."
Ave looked at her, something flickering in his expression—something unspoken yet deeply felt.
Her next words carried warmth meant to reach him. "You are not alone in this, Meister Ave. And... you deserve to love and be loved in return."
Ave's lips parted slightly, but before he could reply, a notification chimed on the communication console.
A familiar voice, brimming with energy, filled the cockpit. "Aggressor 01 to Long Arch 03 and 07! How's the preparation for Exia's test this afternoon?"
Ave activated the comms. "Long Arch 07 here. Preparations are complete. We're ready whenever you are. How's the final adjustment on your equipment, Nanoha-san?"
The monitor flickered to life, revealing Nanoha Takamachi's bright smile. Her pink-striped shine white and stratos blue Barrier Jacket contrasted with the towering, steel-grey silhouette of her new equipment—the Pile Smasher EM.
"Mary-san and Shari did an amazing job this morning! Raising Heart says this thing packs enough power to take down a Fortress-Class BETA or a Cruiser-Class Space Monster with a fully charged shot."
Reinforce Eins glanced at Ave, her tone amused. "Miss Nanoha certainly seems pleased with her upgrades. Do you think it's because of her moniker, the White Devil of the TSAB?"
Ave chuckled. "Most likely. She's always had a thing for overwhelming firepower."
Reinforce Eins gave him a knowing smile. "She won't be thrilled if she hears that, but I agree."
Nanoha's voice carried a note of excitement. "Oh! Have you heard about our opponents for the test?"
Ave shook his head. "Only that they're from GGG's Mobile Squadron. Super robots with Super AI, apparently."
Reinforce Eins added, "Their leader, mister Guy Shishioh, is the first officially recognized Evoluder. This should be an interesting match."
Nanoha's eyes sparkled. "This just got even better! I can't wait to see what they bring to the field."
Ave and Reinforce Eins exchanged a glance. Looks like it'll be a challenging afternoon.
As the test drew closer, Ave found himself reflecting on Reinforce Eins' words, on Nanoha's unwavering enthusiasm, and on the countless people who had placed their faith in him.
No matter how much I doubt myself… For them, I have to keep moving forward.
Vivio tugged eagerly at Einhard's hand, practically bouncing with excitement as they made their way toward Caledfwlch Techniques' third outdoor testing area. The late afternoon sun bathed the vast facility in a golden hue, casting long shadows across the reinforced walkways. The distant hum of machinery and the occasional crackle of energy weapons firing added a sense of anticipation to the air.
"Come on, Einhard-san! They might have already finished the field test by now," Vivio urged, quickening her pace. Her mismatched emerald and scarlet eyes sparkled with anticipation, her boundless energy a stark contrast to Einhard's composed demeanor.
Einhard, ever the picture of calm, allowed a small smile to cross her lips. "I doubt the test would conclude so soon, Vivio-san," she responded in her usual measured tone. "With Shari-san and Mary-san overseeing it, they're bound to have thrown in unexpected surprises. They always ensure that tests push participants to their limits, especially with Ave-san, Nanoha-san, and Eins-san involved."
Vivio pouted slightly before countering, "Nanoha-mama, Ave-nii, and Eins-nē can handle anything! But yeah, I get what you mean. Shari-san and Mary-san do love their little tricks. Remember when Commander Yagami and her Wolkenritter had their field test? No one saw that coming!"
Einhard's curiosity piqued. "What kind of surprise did they prepare for Commander Yagami's group?"
Vivio's grin widened as she recalled the event. "Everyone expected standard unmanned mobile suits like the Daughtress-series or VF-11 Variable Fighters. Instead, they had to fight Brave Express Corps' Super-AI robots! The knights were totally caught off guard."
Einhard let out a soft chuckle. "That would be quite the challenge. The Brave Express Corps are legendary, both in their combat prowess and their unwavering tenacity."
"Right? It'd be so cool to spar with them one day!" Vivio's enthusiasm was contagious, but before she could elaborate further, they arrived at the observation chamber.
Inside, the hum of high-tech consoles filled the air, and the reinforced glass provided an unobstructed view of the sprawling test field. Engineers and technicians monitored multiple displays, tracking every movement in the ongoing test. The room smelled of metal and ozone, a familiar scent in facilities dedicated to advanced combat trials.
Shario "Shari" Finieno turned from her console, flashing them a warm smile. "Oh, hi, Vivio and Einhard! Glad you made it."
"Sorry we're late," Vivio said with a slight bow. "The trains were delayed after last week's incident."
Shari waved off the apology with a teasing grin. "No need to be so formal, Vivio. You're still the same adorable and cheeky girl, even in that ladylike middle school uniform."
"Mou, Shari-san!" Vivio pouted, cheeks puffing slightly, making Einhard and Mariel Atenza chuckle.
Shari held up a tablet displaying a sleek schematic. "Have you seen this? It's the blueprint for Exia Repair III—or Exia R3. We've given it a full upgrade, bringing it to quasi-fourth-generation specs. Performance-wise, it's comparable to 00 Gundam Seven Sword or Jinx IV. This should officially replace Ave-kun's Astraea Type A."
Einhard examined the design closely, her heterochromatic purple and blue eyes narrowing in thought. The image of the Exia R3 flickered across the display, its refined silhouette looking even sleeker than its predecessor. "Judging by these specs, Exia R3 is undoubtedly powerful, though not necessarily the strongest Gundam we've encountered post-Break the World."
"You're not wrong," Shari admitted. "There are mobile suits like RX-93 Nu Gundam, RX-0 Unicorn, ZGMF-X20A Strike Freedom, and GX-9901-DX Double X that rival or even surpass Exia R3 in raw firepower. But none of them match the versatility of 00 Raiser."
Vivio leaned in excitedly. "Still, Exia R3 suits Ave-nii perfectly! He already loved Astraea Type A, and since he piloted Exia R2 before, this upgrade just feels right for him."
As if on cue, the main monitor shifted to live footage of the ongoing battle. On-screen, Ave's Exia Repair III moved with incredible speed, parrying Volfogg's Silver Cross blade with precise, calculated movements. Nanoha, clad in her upgraded combat gear, delivered a thunderous blow with her Pile Smasher, forcing her opponent back.
Einhard's mismatched eyes widened slightly. Ave-san is matching Volfogg-san's speed without even activating Trans-Am. That's remarkable.
Vivio beamed proudly. "Ave-nii's gotten so much better since becoming an Innovator. His reflexes and combat finesse are on a whole new level now."
Einhard nodded. "His sword techniques and aim have certainly evolved. It's not surprising, given his rigorous training and battle experience."
Shari added, "His growth has been incredible. He's come a long way since piloting Astraea Type A and the original Exia."
Mariel chimed in. "I still remember when Ave-kun first piloted the original Exia to protect Commander Yagami. His Astraea was damaged, and Exia's compatibility with Astraea's GN Drive was a lucky discovery."
Vivio's eyes sparkled. "That was when Ave-nii first used the Seven Swords configuration, right? He held off that mysterious enemy until Nergal's Nadesico arrived."
Einhard tilted her head slightly. "That must've been before I met him. What kind of opponent was he facing?"
Vivio hesitated for a moment before replying, "No one ever found out who he really was. He piloted something we'd never seen before—its presence was eerie, and it felt like he was toying with Ave-nii the entire time…"
Einhard watched Ave manoeuvre Exia R3 with precision, her mind drifting for a moment. Ave-san always fights to protect the people he cares about, no matter the cost. She thought of his connection with Hayate—how both of them bore the weight of Reinforce Eins' Linker Core within them. I hope that bond brings them strength… not sorrow.
Meanwhile, the battle reached its climax. Exia R3 activated Trans-Am, its frame glowing with an ethereal red light as Ave blurred into motion. With a final, decisive strike, he disarmed Volfogg and disabled his core systems. At the same time, Nanoha unleashed a pinpoint blast from her Pile Smasher, ending the match in a decisive victory.
Cheers erupted in the observation chamber. Vivio clapped excitedly. "See, Einhard-san? Ave-nii's amazing! He and Nanoha-mama make the best team."
Einhard smiled warmly, her gaze lingering on the screen. "They certainly do, Vivio-san. Watching Ave-san grow has been inspiring. I'm glad we were able to see this together."
As the team analysed the battle data, Shari and Mariel exchanged a knowing look. The test had been a success, but more challenges lay ahead. Still, in that moment, the warmth and camaraderie in the observation chamber was a quiet reminder of why they fought—not just for victory, but also for the bonds they shared and the future they believed in.
Ave took a long sip from his water bottle, the cool liquid easing the dryness in his throat. He leaned back against the cushioned bench in the waiting room, exhaling slowly as exhaustion settled into his limbs. The room was spacious yet cozy, lit by the soft glow of overhead lights. A faint hum from the ventilation system accompanied the distant sounds of machinery and comm chatter filtering through the walls. The scent of disinfectant lingered in the air, mingling with the subtle aroma of coffee from the vending machine in the corner.
He let out a chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck. "I never thought piloting Exia and participating in a mock battle could be more draining than fighting the BETA hordes during Operation 21st." His voice carried an amused exhaustion, a small smile tugging at his lips.
Vivio, perched on the edge of a chair nearby, exchanged a knowing glance with Einhard and Nanoha before breaking into a soft giggle. "At least fighting Volfogg-nii and Guy-nii isn't as terrifying as facing the BETA hordes, right, Ave-nii?" she teased, swinging her legs playfully.
She meant it light-heartedly, but deep down, she knew the difference between a combat simulation and the reality of war. Mock battles had clear limits. Real battles didn't. Against the BETA, you either won or you died. She shuddered at the thought, pushing it away. Ave-nii is here, smiling. That's what matters.
Ave shook his head, his smile lingering. "You're not wrong, Vivio. But whether it's GGG's super robots or the BETA, we always aim to finish the fight before things spiral out of control." He shot a glance at Nanoha, who returned it with a small, knowing smile.
Einhard folded her arms, her expression thoughtful. "That's easier said than done, Ave-san. Tenacious opponents never fall easily."
Nanoha leaned forward slightly, her calm, confident presence reassuring. "It's not impossible, Einhard-chan. The key is controlling the fight, striking precisely and continuously. That's why Eins-san trained Ave-kun and Hayate-chan in both close combat and long-range techniques."
Vivio's mismatched green and red eyes lit up. "Didn't you also teach them aerial combat, Nanoha-mama?"
Nanoha smiled proudly. "Of course. Aerial mobility is crucial for adaptability. I shared what I could, especially since Ave-kun's Exia thrives in dynamic combat."
Ave nodded, his gaze distant, as if recalling past lessons. "Ginga-san once told me about Nakajima-style Shooting Arts. It's all about ending a fight efficiently." His voice lowered slightly. "Efficiency can mean survival."
Before Einhard could respond, the door swung open, and in stepped Guy Shishioh and Reinforce Eins, each holding thick folders brimming with data. Guy's ever-present grin brightened the room's atmosphere in an instant.
"Did we interrupt something?" he asked, his gaze sweeping over them.
Nanoha stood, greeting them with a polite nod. "Not at all, Guy-san. We were just discussing combat strategies. You and Eins-san are welcome to join us."
Guy chuckled as he shook Nanoha's hand. "Discussing tactics with the White Devil herself? Now that's a rare privilege." His grin widened mischievously. "After all, it's not every day you meet the mage who obliterated Makiri's tainted Holy Grail with five simultaneous Starlight Breakers."
Nanoha's face twitched. "Mou…"
Reinforce Eins added, her expression as serene as ever but with a teasing glint in her eyes, "Miss Nanoha was quite eager to test the improved Blaster System back then. The Holy Grail just happened to be an ideal target."
Ave stifled a chuckle, leaning toward Reinforce Eins. So this is how it feels to tease Nanoha-san and live to tell the tale. "You make it sound like she wasn't looking for an excuse to fire five Blasters at once."
Nanoha huffed, folding her arms. "Murgh… I do not go looking for things to Starlight Breaker!"
Ave grinned. "Says the person whose first instinct in every battle is 'Maybe I should use it at full power this time.'"
Nanoha glared at him, a playful glint in her eyes. "One day, Ave-kun, I'll take you and Exia down for teasing me."
The lively banter filled the room with warmth, laughter bubbling up from Vivio, Einhard, and even Reinforce Eins.
Vivio, her usual curiosity unrestrained, turned to Guy. "What about you, Guy-nii? Do you fight recklessly to protect the ones you love?"
Guy's grin softened, his gaze growing distant for a moment before he nodded. "Sometimes, you don't have a choice. Protecting those you love means risking everything. It's not ideal, but there are moments when it's necessary."
A silence settled, not heavy, but contemplative.
Ave exhaled, standing up and stretching. "I should go. Hayate-san is probably waiting for me in the main lobby." He gave a small wave before making his way to the door.
As the door shut behind him, Vivio turned to Einhard, her voice dropping into a telepathic whisper. Einhard-san… are you okay with Ave-nii and Commander Yagami becoming official?
Her heart clenched as she asked. She didn't want to sound selfish, but the thought lingered in her mind. Would Ave-nii still look after us the same way? Would his heart be pulled away…?
Einhard blinked in surprise before her lips curled into a gentle, knowing smile. Ave-san loves all of us, Vivio-san. Even if he and Commander Yagami becomes a couple, his feelings for us won't change.
Vivio's worry melted, replaced by a warm, fuzzy feeling. You're right. Ave-nii would never stop caring for us.
Einhard's gaze lingered on the door. Ave-san… Commander Yagami… She clasped her hands together, closing her mismatched eyes briefly. I hope happiness finds you both. Even with the burdens you carry, may the blessed wind guides you eternally.
She made a silent promise to herself. No matter what, she would stand by them. Their happiness was worth protecting too.
Arriving at the main lobby, Ave immediately spotted his commanding officer, Hayate, sitting on the couch with her laptop open. Her eyes were glued to the screen, fingers moving deftly across the keyboard with a practiced rhythm. The soft glow of the display illuminated her face, highlighting her focused expression.
She's always like this... Ave thought, a small smile forming. So diligent, so dedicated. Even in moments of quiet, she's always thinking ahead. But then, a mischievous idea crept into his mind. Maybe I should sneak up and startle her—just a little. It'd be funny, right?
His grin widened, but he hesitated. No, no. If Signum-san or Vita-san caught me, I'd be in serious trouble. Better not push my luck.
With a quiet sigh, Ave approached her normally. "Hayate-san, I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long," he greeted, his voice warm.
Hayate looked up, her focused expression softening into a smile. "Ah, Ave-kun! Nope, not at all. Our meeting wrapped up early, so I figured I'd get a head start on this," she said cheerfully, her Kansai accent slipping in naturally. Then, with a playful glint in her eyes, she tilted her laptop screen toward him. "Take a look. What do you think, hmm?"
Ave blinked in surprise. Instead of mission reports or tactical data, the screen displayed an intricate set of designs—knight garbs and combat gear, clearly tailored for Signum, Vita, and Shamal. The craftsmanship was unmistakable, a blend of function and elegance.
Of course. Hayate-san's other passion... He chuckled, shaking his head fondly. "I almost thought you were working on a report, but instead, you're redesigning everyone's equipment," he said, amusement lacing his tone. He leaned in slightly, taking a closer look. "These are incredible. You've improved the flight control systems and enhanced the field generators, but the designs still maintain the essence of the originals. You've really outdone yourself."
Hayate beamed at his praise. "Eheh, thanks, Ave-kun! I've been workin' on these for a while now. Wanted to make sure they're both effective and stylish, y'know?" She patted the seat beside her. "Come on, sit down. Tell me what ya really think."
Ave obliged, settling beside her as he studied the details more closely. She really treats this like an art form... he mused. It's not just about practicality for her. It's a way of showing how much she cares for her knights.
"They're definitely more streamlined and durable," he remarked after a moment. "The new field generators should boost defense, and the improved flight systems will make aerial combat more efficient. But what really stands out is how you've preserved each knight's identity. Signum-san's still has that noble, warrior-like feel, and Vita-san's keeps her bold, no-nonsense style."
Hayate's eyes sparkled with pride. "That's exactly what I was goin' for! Can't have 'em lookin' like they came off an assembly line, right?"
Ave chuckled. "You've definitely succeeded there, Hayate-san. I'm sure they'll love these new designs."
"Mm, I hope so," she said, closing her laptop. Then, her tone shifted slightly. "By the way, how was your meetin' this afternoon? I heard Knight Carim and Admiral Leti wanted a full report on the Frozen Teardrop Incident."
At the mention of the incident, Ave's expression turned more serious. "It went fine, but they had a lot of questions. The higher-ups are concerned about how sealing Lægjarn's Chest affected the timeline." His voice lowered. "It's… complicated."
Hayate nodded, a thoughtful look crossing her face. "Yeah… messin' with time is never simple. But we did what had to be done. Protectin' the future of the multiverse—that's what matters most."
Ave hesitated before asking, "Do you ever wonder if it was a mistake? Sealing Lægjarn's Chest… it changed so much for so many people."
Hayate's answer was immediate. "Nope. Not for a second." She met his gaze, unwavering. "The timeline might've shifted, but the alternative was far worse. We saved lives, Ave-kun. That's what counts."
Ave let out a quiet sigh, his shoulders easing slightly. "I guess you're right… I just can't shake the feeling that, for some, we caused more harm than good."
Hayate reached over, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Ya worry too much, Ave-kun. No one blames ya for what happened. If anythin', they're grateful. You helped protect this world, and that's somethin' to be proud of."
A small, genuine smile found its way to Ave's lips. "Thanks, Hayate-san. I needed that."
"Anytime," Hayate replied warmly. Then, her playful grin returned. "Now, how 'bout we head to Ristorante Rinaldi? I'm starvin', and Miura-chan's probably wonderin' where we are."
Ave chuckled. "Sure thing, Hayate-san. Let's go."
As they walked toward the elevator, Hayate suddenly looped her arm through his, pulling him closer. "Oh, before I forget—congrats on your promotion to Executive Officer. I'm real proud of ya, Ave-kun."
Ave stiffened slightly at the unexpected closeness, a faint heat rising to his cheeks. "T-Thanks, Hayate-san… I'll do my best to live up to your expectations."
Hayate giggled, clearly enjoying his reaction. "Ahaha, you're so cute when you get all flustered! Should've had Schwertkreuz record it for posterity."
"Hayate-san!" Ave protested, his face heating further. "We're in public!"
"Relax, relax. No one's watchin'," she teased, then leaned in and placed a quick, playful kiss on his cheek. "Consider that a little reward, na."
Ave's brain momentarily short-circuited, his mouth opening and closing before he managed to stammer, "Y-You're impossible, Hayate-san…"
She just laughed, clearly entertained. "Ahaha, your reactions are priceless, Ave-kun. Now, c'mon, let's go before Miura-chan starts worryin'."
As they stepped into the elevator, Ave let out a breath he didn't realize he'd been holding. She's always like this—teasing me one moment, then reassuring me the next… That's just who Hayate-san is.
And, despite the flutter in his chest, he knew he wouldn't have it any other way.
"How's Einhard doin' lately, Ave-kun? I heard she got hurt protectin' Vivio from Gjallarhorn's bombardment durin' the assault in the Tarsus region, na…" Hayate asked casually, her hands steady on the wheel as the car glided smoothly along the freeway between Midchilda Central and Midchilda South. Though her tone was light, Ave could hear the quiet concern beneath it.
She's always like this—kind, perceptive, never missing a thing, Ave thought as he glanced at her. "She's fully recovered, thanks to Asteion's automatic recovery system and Yumina's treatment. But when Fūka and Rinne found out, well… let's just say it wasn't pretty."
"A, ha, ha, ha. I can imagine," Hayate chuckled, her Kansai accent slipping through as she grinned. "Those two dote on Einhard like she's their big sister, na. But I get it—Vivio, Fūka, and Rinne were all worried sick about her."
Ave sighed, nodding. "Yeah. She was just trying to protect Vivio. But I know she still feels guilty about not bein' able to shield her during the Battle at Marberry Shore. That incident really stuck with her."
Hayate's smile faded slightly, her grip on the wheel tightening for a moment. That was a rough battle for all of us… Einhard's always so hard on herself. She doesn't see how much she's already done for everyone.
"It wasn't her fault, Ave-kun," Hayate said firmly, her voice warm but unwavering. "None of us could've predicted Chimera Corps and Black Charisma's betrayal. They almost got Setsuko-han and Isara-chan too, na. Einhard did everything she could. She shouldn't blame herself."
Ave looked out the window, watching the glow of the setting sun reflect off the distant skyline. Hayate-san's right. Einhard always takes on too much, like she has to carry everything alone. If only she'd let herself rely on others more…
"You're right, Hayate-san," he said with a small smile. "I'll remind her of that next time she starts doubting herself."
Hayate grinned, her playful side returning. "That's the spirit, Ave-kun! And while yer at it, ya better take good care of her for Vivio and me, na. She's precious to all of us."
Ave chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "I'll do my best, Hayate-san. But honestly, I think Einhard's the one who ends up takin' care of us most of the time."
"A, ha, ha, ha! Ain't that the truth?" Hayate laughed. "She's got that big sister's instinct—always lookin' out for others, even when she should be restin'. That's just how she is, na."
As the car exited the freeway and entered Artesaim District, Ave's gaze drifted to the pier, the water shimmering under the evening sky. Viktoria, Sieglinde, Einhard, Vivio… They're all so strong. Do they even need someone like me to protect them?
Hayate must have noticed his silence because her voice softened. "Ave-kun, I know what yer thinkin'. Ya might not have the raw power of Einhard or the others, but that doesn't mean ya ain't important, na. Yer strength is in how ya never give up. Ya always stand up, no matter how tough things get. That's somethin' no amount of magic can replace."
Ave blinked, caught off guard by how easily she saw through him. She always knows exactly what to say… Warmth spread through his chest. "Thanks, Hayate-san. I needed to hear that."
Hayate smiled, her gaze briefly meeting his before she turned back to the road. "Good. Now, let's talk about somethin' more fun, na? Like how yer gonna handle bein' a full-fledged Executive Officer."
Ave groaned dramatically. "Don't remind me. I'm still tryin' to wrap my head around it. The responsibility's kinda overwhelming."
"A, ha, ha, ha! Ya'll do just fine, Ave-kun. I wouldn't have recommended ya if I didn't believe in ya, na," Hayate reassured him with a confident grin. "And if ya ever need advice, ya know where to find me."
"I'll hold ya to that, Hayate-san," Ave said, his smile widening. She's always been my rock… No matter how tough things get, I know I can count on her.
As they pulled into the parking lot of Ristorante Rinaldi, Hayate turned to him with a teasing glint in her eye. "Oh, and Ave-kun… Don't think I forgot about that little blush earlier. Yer reactions are always entertainin', na."
Ave's face instantly heated up again, and he groaned. "Hayate-san, you're impossible."
"A, ha, ha, ha! And that's why ya love me, na?" she teased with a wink before stepping out of the car.
Ave hesitated for just a fraction of a second before following her, shaking his head with a helpless smile. She's right… I wouldn't have it any other way.
Ristorante Rinaldi was a serene escape from the bustling energy of Midchilda Central. Though it took a forty-five-minute drive to reach the restaurant, neither Ave nor Hayate minded the journey. The tranquil atmosphere of Artesaim District, with its picturesque pier overlooking the ocean, offered the perfect setting to unwind from their hectic lives. The gentle evening breeze carried the scent of saltwater, and the soft glow of Midchilda's twin moons reflected off the waves, creating a scene straight out of a dream.
This place is so peaceful, Ave thought, glancing at Hayate as she studied the restaurant's menu with quiet interest. No wonder Hayate-san and her family chose to live here instead of the crowded Central or the overly commercialised West District. It's like a sanctuary. He let his gaze wander, taking in the warm, rustic decor and the soft hum of conversation. It's not just the scenery—it's the feeling of being away from it all. Like time slows down here. I could get used to this.
Hayate, ever the curious foodie, carefully examined the menu, her sapphire blue eyes flicking between options with quiet deliberation. She was dressed in a casual yet elegant ensemble, her long brown hair cascading over her shoulders. Ave couldn't help but smile at her focused expression. She's probably thinking about how to recreate these dishes at home. His mind drifted to the countless lunchboxes she had prepared for him over the past year—each one a masterpiece of flavour and presentation. Three Michelin stars wouldn't do her cooking justice. Every bite feels like it's made with love. I'm lucky to have someone like her in my life.
"Have ya decided what you're gettin', Ave-kun?" Hayate asked, looking up with a warm smile.
"I have, Hayate-san. I'm going with the Foie gras from the chef's recommendation section," Ave replied, returning her smile. "What about you?"
Hayate chuckled softly, her Kansai accent slipping through. "Ufufu, I'm goin' with the Seiren meunière. Miura-chan told me they import Seiren Trout straight from the Gaete Sea. It's supposed to be amazin', ya know."
Ave nodded appreciatively. "That's a great choice. Seiren Trout is known for its delicate flavour. I'm sure it'll be delicious."
Hayate's eyes lit up at his approval. "Hehe, I knew ya'd understand, Ave-kun. You're such a foodie, just like me." She leaned forward slightly, her tone playful. "But don't think I'll let ya off easy. If yer Foie gras is better than my Seiren meunière, I'm stealin' a bite. Fair's fair, right?"
Ave laughed, shaking his head. "You're on, Hayate-san. But don't blame me if you end up liking mine more."
As they placed their orders, Ave felt a deep sense of contentment. This is nice. Just the two of us, enjoying a quiet dinner together. It's moments like these that make all the chaos worth it.
When their meals arrived, Hayate eagerly took the first bite of her Seiren meunière, her face lighting up with delight. "Mmm! This is incredible, Ave-kun! Ya gotta try a bite."
Ave chuckled at her enthusiasm. "I'm glad you like it, Hayate-san. Here, try some of my Foie gras." He offered her a bite, which she accepted with a playful grin. As she savoured the dish, her eyes widened in surprise.
"Ufufu, this is amazin'! The texture is so smooth, and the flavour is rich but not overpowerin'. Ya weren't kiddin', Ave-kun. This might just beat my Seiren meunière."
Ave smirked, crossing his arms. "Told you. But don't worry, Hayate-san. I'll let you have another bite if you admit defeat."
Hayate pouted playfully. "Mou, yer such a tease, Ave-kun. But fine, I'll admit it—yer Foie gras is a masterpiece. Just don't let Miura-chan hear ya say that, or she'll be challengin' ya to a cook-off."
Ave laughed. She's always so lively. Even when she's teasing me, it's impossible not to smile.
"Do ya wanna swap? Both are good, kinda like Shiranui Second and Silent Eagle."
Ave raised an eyebrow at her comparison, a grin forming. "You're comparing fine dining to mechs now?"
Hayate giggled. "Hehe, I picked that up from ya, Ave-kun. I still remember how ya went full-blown mech otaku the other day, explainin' all the differences between 'em."
Ave's cheeks flushed slightly. "I-I wasn't that bad, was I?"
"Ufufu, it was adorable," Hayate teased. Yer passion for those machines is one of the things I love about ya, ya know. She leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "Though, I gotta say, yer not the only one with a passion for design. Remember when I spent three days tweak'n Signum's new knight garb? Vita-chan said I was more obsessed than a cosplay otaku at a convention."
Ave chuckled, scratching the back of his head. She always knows how to make me feel at ease, even when I'm rambling about things she probably doesn't care about. "Well, I guess we're both passionate about our hobbies. Though I'd say your designs are way more impressive than my mech ramblings."
Hayate grinned, clearly pleased. "Hehe, flattery will get ya everywhere, Ave-kun. But don't think I'll let ya off the hook that easily. Next time, I'm makin' ya help me design a new outfit for Eins."
As they continued their meal, the conversation shifted to lighter topics. Hayate mentioned how Miura had been experimenting with new recipes at the Yagami Residence and how Reinforce Zwei and Agito had been pestering her about Ave's next visit.
"They miss ya, Ave-kun," Hayate said with a soft smile. "Especially Vita-chan. She's been complainin' about not hearin' any of yer old-world stories lately."
Ave chuckled. "Ah, you mean the Super Electromagnetic Robot Combattler V and Voltes V? Just to clarify—they weren't real. They were from an anime."
Hayate blinked, then burst into laughter. "Eeeh?! Ya mean Vita-chan's been dreamin' about pilotin' a fictional robot this whole time? Oh, I can't wait to tell her."
Ave groaned. "Please don't. She'll never let me live it down."
"Ufufu, don't worry, Ave-kun. I'll keep yer secret—for now."
After finishing their meal, Ave insisted on paying the bill, much to Hayate's amusement. "Yer such a gentleman, Ave-kun. But don't think this means yer off the hook for dessert next time, ya hear?"
As they strolled along the pier, Hayate linked her arm with his, her presence comforting and familiar. This feels right. Just being here with her, away from all the chaos. He glanced at the ocean, the waves gently lapping against the pier. The moonlight reflecting on the water, the sound of the breeze—it's like the world is holding its breath, just for us.
"Do ya remember the night ya promised to share my burden, Ave-kun?" Hayate's voice was soft, tinged with nostalgia. That night, when everything felt like it was fallin' apart, he stood by me. He promised to stay, no matter what. I'll never forget that.
Ave nodded. "I remember, Hayate-san. That promise still stands."
Hayate turned to him, her sapphire blue eyes shimmering in the moonlight. "Ya don't know how much that means to me." Then, without hesitation, she leaned in and kissed him.
Ave's breath caught. I… can't believe this is real.
When she pulled away, she giggled. "Hehe, yer face is so red, Ave-kun."
Ave laughed softly, his heart still racing. "You always surprise me, Hayate-san."
Her smile softened. "I love ya, Ave-kun."
Ave held her hand tightly. I've loved her from the moment I met her.
"I love you too, Hayate-san."
The night was serene, the kind of tranquillity that stretched endlessly, wrapping around them like a warm blanket. The twin moons of Midchilda hung low in the sky, their silvery light casting a gentle glow over the pier. The rhythmic sound of waves lapping against the wooden posts below set a soothing backdrop to their quiet conversation.
Ave and Hayate stood side by side, their hands intertwined as if the connection between them was too precious to let go. The gentle breeze carried the scent of saltwater, mingling with the faint aroma of their earlier dinner.
Hayate leaned her head lightly against Ave's shoulder, her gaze fixed on the horizon where the ocean met the sky.
"A, ha, ha, ha. Ain't it funny, na?" she mused, her voice soft, contemplative. "When I first met ya, I never imagined we'd end up here like this. Back then, I was just tryin' to balance everythin'—bein' a leader, a friend, a sister. And then ya came along, with that quiet strength of yers and yer endless curiosity 'bout our world. Ya fit right in, like ya were always meant to be here."
Ave smiled, his thumb brushing gently over the back of her hand. "I think I was just lucky, Hayate-san. When I first arrived, I was lost. I didn't know where I belonged or what I was supposed to do. But you and everyone else at the Yagami Residence... you gave me a home. You gave me a purpose."
He always says that, Hayate thought, her heart aching in the sweetest way. Like he doesn't realize how much he's given us too.
She tilted her head up to meet his gaze, her deep sapphire blue eyes shining with warmth. "A, ha, ha, ha. Yer too humble, Ave-kun. Ya brought so much to our lives too, ya know? Yer stories, yer passion, yer kindness—it's all made us stronger. Even Vita-chan, who acts all tough, adores ya. And Eins... well, she's never been the type to say much, but I can tell she trusts ya completely."
Ave's cheeks flushed slightly. "I... I just try to do my best. For all of you."
Hayate chuckled, her Kansai accent slipping through as it always did when she was relaxed. "A, ha, ha, ha. That's what I love about ya, Ave-kun. Yer always tryin' so hard, even when ya don't have to. But don't forget, ya don't have to carry everythin' alone na. We're here for ya, just like yer here for us."
Ave nodded, his expression softening. "I know, Hayate-san. And I'm grateful for that every day."
They stood there for a while, letting the peaceful silence settle between them, the night air cool against their skin. Ave's mind wandered back to the early days—how uncertain he'd been, how foreign everything had felt. He remembered the first time Hayate had cooked for him, the way her food had felt like a warm embrace. He also remembered the late-night conversations with Shamal, Signum and Eins, the playful arguments with Vita, and the relaxing moments with Zafira, Agito and Reinforce Zwei.
Each memory was a thread, weaving together the life he had now.
Hayate's voice broke through his thoughts, teasing and knowing. "A, ha, ha, ha. Yer thinkin' about somethin' deep again, aren't ya, Ave-kun? I can see it in yer eyes, na."
Ave laughed softly, shaking his head. "You know me too well, Hayate-san. I was just thinking about how much my life has changed since I came here. How much I've changed."
Hayate smiled, a quiet understanding in her gaze. He really has changed. She had seen it in the way he carried himself, the way he no longer hesitated before taking action, the way he had become someone everyone relied on—herself included.
"A, ha, ha, ha. Change ain't a bad thing, na. Sometimes, it's just the universe's way of bringin' us where we're meant to be. And right now… I think we're exactly where we're supposed to be."
Ave looked at her, and for a moment, the world seemed to fade away.
Yeah. This is where I belong.
As they walked back to the car, Hayate's steps were light, her mood as carefree as ever. "A, ha, ha, ha. Can't wait to tell everyone about tonight, na. Vita-chan's gonna be so jealous she missed out on the foie gras. And Eins… well, she'll probably just nod and say, 'I told you it was a good idea to go.'"
Ave chuckled, his hand still holding hers. "Eins really does have a way of always being right, doesn't she?"
Hayate grinned, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "A, ha, ha, ha. Don't let her hear ya say that, or she'll never let ya live it down, na."
As they drove back to the Yagami Residence, the night stretched out before them, filled with the quiet promise of tomorrow. Ave glanced at Hayate, her profile illuminated by the soft glow of the dashboard lights. She was humming a tune, her fingers tapping lightly on the steering wheel.
In that moment, he felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
For her.
For their family.
For this life they were building together.
No matter what the future held, they would face it together.
And that was enough.
THE END
ED Theme Song: ねがいごと "Wish" (Performed By: Ami Suzuki)