The morning sun painted the serene landscape of Carnaaji in hues of gold and azure, a stark contrast to the bustling metropolises that dotted the interdimensional map. This secluded haven, untouched by the clamor of civilization, was home to Lutecia and Megane Alpine, their lives now woven into the fabric of this tranquil sanctuary.
Yoshitaka Fuji, once a stalwart member of the TSAB's Riot Force 6, had found a new calling within the hallowed halls of the Saint Church. His transfer, a personal choice after the disbandment of his renowned unit, had transformed the formidable leader of Forward Phantom into a beloved brother. Fuji's charisma, coupled with his culinary prowess and gentle demeanor, had endeared him to the sisters of the church, earning him a reputation as the epitome of a caring figure.
Accompanying him was Sister Schach, her pragmatic nature a perfect counterpoint to Fuji's amiable disposition. As they traversed the winding paths leading to the Alpine residence, Fuji's eyes drank in the breathtaking scenery. "So, this is Carnaaji," he murmured, his voice laced with wonder. "It's truly magnificent."
"This place belongs to Lutecia and Megane, Fuji," Schach reminded him, her gaze sweeping over the verdant valleys. "It's not registered with the TSAB. Surely you remember."
"Of course, Sister," Fuji replied, a soft smile gracing his lips.
"But I've never had the pleasure of visiting. It reminds me of Switzerland, a country on my home planet, Earth."
As they neared the Alpine abode, they encountered two familiar figures: Caro Ru Lushe and Erio Mondial, now seasoned Conservation Officers with the Frontier Nature Conservation Corps at Supools camp. "Sister, Fuji-san! Good morning!" Caro and Erio greeted them, their voices imbued with warmth.
"Ah, good morning, Erio, Caro," Schach responded, a hint of maternal affection in her tone.
"It's been a while, Erio, Caro," Fuji remarked, his eyes twinkling. "You've certainly grown taller, Erio."
"Thank you, Fuji-san," Erio replied, a faint blush coloring his cheeks.
"And Caro," Fuji continued, his gaze lingering on her flowing locks, "I see you're letting your hair grow. I look forward to seeing it reach its full length."
"Thank you, Fuji-san," Caro said, her smile radiant.
After a brief exchange, Fuji and Schach continued their journey, finally reaching the Alpine residence. Lutecia, her demeanor transformed by the events of the JS Incident, exuded a newfound cheerfulness. Megane, too, had made remarkable strides in her recovery, her eyes sparkling with renewed vitality. Erio and Caro, their bond forged in the crucible of shared experiences, had become cherished friends of Lutecia.
Meanwhile, within the confines of his TSAB dorm room, Archibald Enzo, formerly Izumi Kai, stirred from a restless slumber. Fragments of his past life, echoes of his time with Riot Force 6, swirled within his mind. He recalled the quiet moments shared with Hayate and Reinforce, the subtle camaraderie that had blossomed amidst the chaos of their missions.
As he prepared for his first day at TSAB HQ, a sense of anticipation mingled with apprehension. He was no longer Izumi Kai, the enigmatic swordsman; he was Archibald Enzo, a new identity forged in the fires of necessity. A chance encounter with Nanoha and Vita in the corridor broke through his thoughts.
"Good morning, Arc-kun," Nanoha greeted him, her smile warm and familiar.
"Good morning, Captain Takamachi, Captain Vita," Arc replied, his voice measured.
"What a coincidence meeting you here," Vita remarked, her eyes assessing him.
"I'm staying in the dorms, Captain. This is my first day," Arc explained.
"I hope you excel in your duties, Lieutenant," Vita said, before turning to Nanoha. "I'm heading to the training grounds, Nanoha. See you later."
"I'll do my best, Captain Vita," Arc responded.
"Arc," Nanoha began, her voice thoughtful, "when we sparred yesterday, it was as if I was facing a younger version of myself."
"Is that so?" Arc replied, his mind tracing the contours of their battle. "If I recall, your rank was AAA+ before joining SAFA (Supreme Air Force "Aggressor"), correct?"
"Indeed," Nanoha confirmed. "After joining SAFA and becoming an instructor, my rank rose to S+. You, Arc, possess the potential to follow a similar path."
The word "potential" resonated within Arc, stirring memories of a distant encounter, a voice whispering words of encouragement. He couldn't recall the speaker's identity, but the echo of their words lingered.
"I lack the necessary skills to become an instructor," Arc demurred.
"Don't worry," Nanoha reassured him. "They'll provide you with the training you need. And after our spar, I believe you deserve a title, just as Fuji and Renjou have earned theirs."
"A title?" Arc pondered. "Your title, Nanoha-san, is 'Ace of Aces.' What do you suggest for me?"
"Dairokuten-maoh," Nanoha declared, her eyes sparkling with mischief. (Demon King of the Sixth Heaven)
"Eeh! Oda Nobunaga?!" Arc exclaimed, his eyes widening in surprise.
"Your magic system is dark, isn't it? It seems fitting," Nanoha explained, her smile widening.
"Ahaha... this isn't Honnoji Temple, though..." Arc chuckled nervously.
As they reached Nanoha's office, she told Arc to meet Shario and Mariel for lunch. He then made his way to the Intelligence Division and Investigation Room.
Meanwhile, at Battalion 255, Renjou, the eccentric former Phantom 02, was overseeing his cadets in his own unorthodox manner. Shin Shatai and Kaguya Mitsuoka, his ever-patient assistants, watched as their captain's unconventional methods unfolded. The broken air conditioner had pushed them to work in the lounge.
"Ren-san, may I have a word?" Shin asked, his voice laced with exasperation.
"Of course, Shin-kun," Renjou replied, his eyes glued to the television screen. "What is it?"
"What exactly are we doing here?" Shin inquired, gesturing around the lounge.
"Working, naturally," Renjou replied, his tone nonchalant.
"The office air conditioner is broken, Shin-kun," Kaguya explained. "Captain Renjou told us to work here."
"I understand that, Kaguya-chan," Shin retorted. "But why in the lounge room?!"
"Why the fuss?" Renjou asked, his gaze still fixed on the screen. "No one uses the lounge during work hours. Besides, the air conditioner in my office is out. Would you prefer me to work in my birthday suit?"
"But Shin-chan," Kaguya interjected, "Ren-chan is actually getting work done. See? He's finishing his report."
"I know, Kaguya-chan," Shin sighed. "But he's only finishing it so he can watch his favorite show. There's no TV in his office."
Just then, Commander Bright Accura entered the lounge, his presence causing Shin and Kaguya to snap to attention. Renjou, however, remained unfazed, offering the commander a can of coffee.
"Coffee, Commander Bright?" Renjou asked.
"Thank you, Captain," Bright replied, accepting the beverage.
As Bright joined Renjou in watching the television, Shin and Kaguya exchanged bewildered glances. "EEEEEEEEEH?! The commander too?!" they thought in unison.
Back at TSAB HQ, Nanoha observed Arc's meticulous work in the Investigation Room. He had solved numerous cold cases, his analytical prowess earning the admiration of his colleagues. Nanoha waited for him, and they headed to the mess hall together, where Shario and Mariel had reserved a table.
"Your work is impressive, Arc," Nanoha commended him.
"It's thanks to Shario and Mariel," Arc replied, gesturing to the mask he wore. "They created this for analysis and investigation."
"It was a simple task," Mariel said, her voice filled with pride.
"Shario," Arc began, "I have a request." He handed her Raging Brando. "I want to conceal my magic system and alter the energy color. Can you do that?"
"I can," Shario replied, her expression serious. "But the black energy can only be changed to dark gray. Is that acceptable?"
"Yes, please," Arc confirmed.
"Arc-kun," Nanoha asked, curiosity piquing her voice, "why do you want to hide your magic system and energy color?"
"The black Midchilda magic system is unique to me, the result of my contract with Soul Edge," Arc explained. "If I reveal it, my cover will be blown."
"Ah, I see," Nanoha nodded, understanding dawning in her eyes.
The lunch break was filled with reminiscences of their time with Riot Force 6. Nanoha and Arc recalled their mock battle, their encounters with Forward Phantom, and their shared research on Soul Edge. Mariel and Shario also remember their time when they requested Arc for the research of him and his previous device Soul edge.
In Saint Church, a sense of tranquility permeated the air as Ginga Nakajima paid a visit to her adopted siblings, Sein, Deed, and Otto. Once agents of chaos under Jail Scaglietti's command, they had found solace and purpose within the church's nurturing embrace, their rehabilitation a testament to the transformative power of compassion. Cinque, Dieci, Wendi, and Nove, now part of the Nakajima family, were also present, their presence adding to the warmth of the scene.
"They've adapted so quickly," Ginga observed, her eyes filled with admiration.
"Indeed," Carim replied, her voice gentle. "Their progress has been remarkable. They've embraced their new lives with open hearts."
"They're more open now, revealing their true selves, than they ever were under Scaglietti," Ginga remarked. "My father has welcomed them into the Nakajima family with open arms."
"A large family is always better than a small one, wouldn't you agree?" Carim said, a warm smile gracing her lips.
"Absolutely," Ginga nodded. "Our home is filled with joy and laughter now, thanks to them."
Back at TSAB HQ, Arc sought out Yuuno Scrya, Nanoha's childhood friend and the chief librarian of the Infinity Library. The vast repository of knowledge held within its walls was a treasure trove of information, and Arc hoped to find answers to the lingering questions that plagued his mind.
"Chief Scrya," Arc greeted him, his voice respectful.
"Ah, Lieutenant Archibald," Yuuno replied, his eyes twinkling behind his spectacles. "What brings you here?"
"I'm seeking information from the history books," Arc explained.
"And what information are you looking for?" Yuuno inquired.
Arc produced a holographic image of Soul Edge, its malevolent aura captured in the intricate details. "I wish to learn more about this," he said.
"That's Izumi Kai's intelligent device, isn't it?" Yuuno observed, his gaze scrutinizing the image. "Ah, I see. This is related to the scar on your face, isn't it? That's why you wear a mask."
"Correct," Arc confirmed. "It's not related to any ongoing case, but I'm curious to know its origins."
"I understand, Lieutenant," Yuuno said, his expression thoughtful. "I'll delve into the archives and contact you if I find anything."
"Thank you, Chief," Arc said, bowing his head in gratitude.
In Battalion 255, the newly repaired air conditioner provided a welcome respite from the sweltering heat. Renjou, Shin, and Kaguya relaxed in the cool air, their work completed for the day.
"This repaired air conditioner feels wonderful, doesn't it?" Kaguya sighed contentedly.
"Indeed, Kaguya-chan," Shin agreed, his brow furrowed slightly. "But isn't it a bit too cold?"
"It's far better than the sauna we endured earlier," Renjou remarked, stretching his limbs. "Thankfully, the repairman arrived sooner than expected."
"You know what would make this even better?" Kaguya suggested, her eyes sparkling. "Shaved ice!"
"Oi, why shaved ice?" Shin retorted, his face contorted in disbelief. "Something warm, like hot pot or ramen, would be more appropriate."
"Shaved ice sounds perfect to me, Kaguya-chan," Renjou said, retrieving a shaved ice machine from a nearby cabinet.
"HOLD ON!" Shin exclaimed, his eyes wide with shock. "WHAT ARE YOU TWO THINKING?! AND SINCE WHEN DID WE HAVE A SHAVED ICE MACHINE?"
"I'd like melon flavor, Captain Renjou," Commander Bright requested, settling into a nearby couch.
"Coming right up, Commander," Renjou replied, expertly crafting the icy treat.
"EEEEEEEEEH?! Since when was the commander here?!" Shin cried, his voice laced with exasperation. "Wait a minute, what's wrong with this battalion?! Am I the only normal one here?!"
As evening descended, Arc returned to his dorm room, his mind still preoccupied with the mysteries surrounding Soul Edge. A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts, and he found Nanoha standing on the threshold.
"May I come in, Arc?" she asked, her smile warm and inviting.
"Of course, Nanoha-san," Arc replied, ushering her inside.
The room was sparsely furnished, reflecting Arc's transient lifestyle. A few personal belongings, including a pair of glasses crafted by Shario and Mariel, and a framed photograph of Riot Force 6, adorned the otherwise bare space.
"This photo brings back so many memories," Nanoha said, her gaze lingering on the image.
"Indeed," Arc agreed. "I remember the day we first met."
"Arc," Nanoha began, her voice gentle, "may I call you Kai? It's just the two of us here."
"Of course, Nanoha-san," Arc replied, offering her a bottle of water.
"Thank you, Kai," Nanoha said, accepting the drink. "I'm curious about this photo. Why are you, Renjou, and Fuji pointing your weapons towards the sky?"
"Ah, that was Fuji's idea," Arc explained. "He was inspired by the Three Kingdoms' Oath of the Peach Garden, the bond between Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei. We took the photo after Commander Yagami formed Forward Phantom and after a gauntlet match."
"It's a beautiful photo," Nanoha remarked. "Even though the cherry blossoms weren't in bloom yet."
"Fuji has a knack for these things," Arc chuckled.
"By the way," Nanoha asked, "what do you do on your days off? Do you stay in your room all day?"
"With this scar on my face, I prefer to stay indoors," Arc replied, his fingers tracing the mark on his cheek. "I don't feel ready to venture out, even with the glasses Shario and Mariel made."
"I understand," Nanoha said, her voice filled with empathy.
She approached Arc, her smile radiating warmth, and embraced him in a gentle hug. "It's alright, Kai," she whispered. "You don't have to carry this burden alone. Let it all out."
Arc felt a surge of emotions as he felt Nanoha's arms around him, her warmth enveloping him. He remembered the time when he and Nanoha in Riot force 6. He knew that Nanoha wanted to cheer him up, because she knew the burden on him.
"Thank you, Nanoha-san," Arc murmured, his voice thick with emotion.
"I have to go now," Nanoha said, releasing him from the embrace. "Vivio is waiting for me."
"See you tomorrow, Nanoha-san," Arc said, his voice filled with gratitude.
As Nanoha departed, Arc lay on his bed, the lingering warmth of her hug providing a sense of comfort. He gazed at the photograph, his mind drifting back to the oath of the peach garden, the camaraderie he had shared with Fuji and Renjou. He clenched his fist, his gaze drawn to the window, where the moon cast a soft glow upon the sleeping city.
(To be continued)