[PhoenixFlare]

Double-post.

Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha GuardianS

Chapter Four—Escutcheon

Spoiler for Scene III, continued:

=Continued=

Chrono began: “Lieutenant-General Leonidas von Khrull, aged 46, bachelor, a veteran of war who has been in the service of the Bureau, specifically the Ground Forces, for 34 years. You rose to the position of Major when you were 20, subsequently to the rank of Brigadier-General when you were 34, and Major-General five years after. You have fought a total of 124 skirmishes, 19 wars, and three sieges, all of whom you were the victor.”

Leonidas was astonished by the amount of details that Chrono was unveiling about his own profile.

“Foremost in the recognition of your leadership ability was the Battle of the Sumaran Hill, where you managed to defend the location with a mere casualty of 24 officers while rounding up the enemy forces,” Chrono continued. “Then, at the civil War of the States, you managed to control the situation without causing harm to all involved, and most noteworthy of all, you secured the safe passage for the innocent civilians, allowing them to survive the bloody clash between three warring states.”

“At one time, you were commissioned by the Naval Fleet as an honorary advisor during the three-year long Galactic Wars, specializing in tactical commands and battle strategies. Of mention, you pulled off a magnificent win for the Navy using a traditional diversion tactic thought to have been obsolete and useless for the war. For that, you were awarded the Special Badge of Service by the Admiral of the Fleet. Soon after, you were involved in the Siege of Gulturas, breaking the decade-long battle that was draining the resources of the Bureau. You managed to penetrate into the so-called impregnable fortress that the enemy had walled themselves in, a feat many deemed to be impossible until you did otherwise.”

Chrono stopped momentarily, gathering his thoughts. “At the Battle of the Shawored Forest, you led a small force of ten thousand combatants against a rebel army eight times its size, securing victory for the Bureau through brilliant guerilla and ambush tactics. The General of the Army conferred to you the Award of Prestigious Service, a distinguished honor granted to one who has shown excellent prowess, which, for your part, included exceptional unit control, casualty management, and the intelligent use of resources, tactics, and strategies. You became the Major General then.”

“Of social service, there is little to mention, except that when you were a Major, you managed to order a sustainable exodus of Mid-childan citizens during a case of terrible flash flood and tidal waves at the Orphed Coast, resulting in one of the most successful relief missions ever with little deaths,” Chrono concluded.

Leonidas did not speak since Chrono began. Neither did he deny nor counter, only listening and watching, his dark eyes unreadable, his expressions hidden.

Chrono’s expression, however, took on a darker tone. “Of course, for one of such high caliber, there is also a shadowy side to your character. Rumors always follow where fame goes.” At this, Leonidas’s eyes lit up, curiosity dancing in those dark pupils. “During the Containment War at the year MC 054, it was rumored that you sacrificed officers and civilians alike, around three thousand in total approximation, suspecting them of possible infection by the highly dangerous and contagious Caldoma virus. Of the action taken, you were said to order a living cremation of these people in what was dubbed the ‘Caldoma Pyre’.”

“Though allegory at best, you were also suspected to have committed manslaughter of a hundred and one civilians on the reason that they were protecting a wanted criminal. You were also accused of accepting bribes and allowing corruption before disposing off those who were involved and witnessed it.”

Finally, Leonidas spoke: “And what do you think of those, Admiral?”

To the Lieutenant-General’s amazement, Chrono shrugged. “I hardly believe rumors, let alone these that have utterly no support from official reports. Of course, that does not mean that I trust you entirely,” Chrono added. “Still, in relation to your character, all I can say is that you’re headstrong, dedicated, and ruthless, but not unreasonable.”

Leonidas looked at Chrono wonderingly, then laughed the strange laughter again. “You are an interesting person, Admiral Harlaown.”

“You have said that just now, but thanks again,” Chrono remarked, but inclined his head politely nevertheless.

“Still, I’m surprised that you missed out one of the largest battles that I’ve ever fought,” Leonidas continued, a razor-sharp line of his lips being the indication of his smile. It was the first he had had since meeting with the Admiral. It was as if he was reminiscing something memorable.

“What would that be?” Chrono asked, his eyebrow arched again.

“You are as interesting and bold as the woman that is your mother, Admiral Harlaown,” Leonidas said, the tinge of a fondness apparent in his voice. “Lindy Harlaown is a formidable Admiral, and I see you have succeeded her position. She proves to be one of the most difficult persons to handle in my entire life, and now you are her, the unshakable pillar of confidence and shrewdness when your mind is set on something.”

“I see,” Chrono replied shortly, unable to form better words.

“She and I debated on a particular issue for so long, that by the time it was over, the idea had expired. Of course, that was also the reason why Gaiz managed to become the Lieutenant-General before me,” Leonidas continued, his smile broadening. “I see that you and she both inherit the courage of your father, Clyde.”

Chrono was surprised. “You know my father?” he asked hurriedly, his hands gripping the arms of his chair.

Leonidas gave a nod in answer. “Not very closely, but yes, we had been comrades-in-arm before we parted ways. The death of your father aboard Hestia in the Book of Darkness incident was a great loss indeed.” There was an unusual, momentary linger of sadness in his gruff voice that, for a moment, Chrono was not sure if Leonidas was really just a passing acquaintance of his father.

“And that brings us back to the proposition you have,” Leonidas said, his voice again stern, his expression somber. Chrono was simply amazed by the turn of mood the Lieutenant-General could have in split seconds, but he discarded the urge to ask and turned his attention back to the issue.

Leonidas continued. “Do not be mistaken, Admiral. I’m not trying to pick on issues just to make it difficult for you. It is part of my duty to ensure that nothing goes wrong that will prove to be a threat to Mid-childa. As Lieutenant-General, I have a duty to protect the safety of the people. So far, your reasons have been sound and acceptable, and hopefully, they will continue to be so.”

“In any case, I notice that your unit also has a number of criminal mages in them,” he went on. “Most apparent of all would be Brigadier-General Yagami, whom you have nominated to be one of the leaders of the squadrons. And her family members, the five known as the Wolkenritter, they were also criminals in the Book of Darkness incident. There are many good candidates out there to choose from, all of who possess a cleaner record than they do. Why do you insist on having them in the unit?”

“The Tome of the Night Sky would be more appropriate to address it now, but I digress,” Chrono remarked. He drew in a deep breath before continuing; this was what Verossa and he had talked about last time. “Why criminals, you say? May I ask for a definition of a criminal?”

“Are you testing my patience, Admiral?” Leonidas replied, his temper rising again. “A criminal is one who breaks the law, guilty of the crime he or she commits, and justifiably punishable by the dictates of the rules and laws that govern a particular location.”

“And do you think Brigadier-General Yagami and her family to be criminals?” Chrono asked again.

“Undoubtedly so,” the Lieutenant-General replied confidently.

“Pardon me for saying this, General, but you have the same short-sightedness as others,” Chrono said calmly. As expected, Leonidas was affronted by the statement, but he was mollified by a raised hand. “Please listen to me first, General.”

Chrono composed his thoughts carefully before speaking. “I hold the same regards about criminals as what you’ve just defined, General. Criminals violate the laws and should be punishable by the related jurisdiction. As members of the Bureau, we have the responsibility to apprehend and send them before the courts for judgment.”

“True, I do not dispute the fact that Yagami and her family are criminals, having caused a big uproar on Non-administrated Planet 97 in the Book of Darkness incident. However, I do not think of them as typical criminals,” Chrono said. “Perhaps you can share my point of view that there are no criminals more than willing to put their life on the front line defending the country from threats than Yagami and her family. They have battled countless other criminals for offenses much larger in magnitude than theirs; they have shed blood, tears, and sweat for various missions, some so life-threatening that their lives were in peril. Even my own sister and one of the Intelligence members are former criminals, pardoned, and now serving in the Bureau. How many have you seen, even among Bureau personnel, ready to sacrifice their own lives, protecting people that label them as criminals? Not many, I would say.”

“Duty and reason are the two forces that we must deal with in this issue, General. If you were to choose the former, then I say that your duty is to protect the lives of the citizens, and the Yagami family could fulfill, in part, what is required of you, even if they are criminals. It is a total waste of talent, resources, and manpower if you insist to disallow them just because of the fact that they are criminals. If you choose reason, then I think it should be safe to say that they have repaid sufficiently the debts they owe to the people by putting their lives at risk in the countless battles that would have caused the loss of more innocent ones if they were absent, sentenced to imprisonment. Their progress in the Bureau is exemplary of the virtues they show.”

Leonidas was speechless. It was an excellent presentation of ideas by the Admiral that there was simply nothing he could say to overturn the opinion. The determination etched into the emerald of Chrono’s eyes shone like beacons of fire, his resolution set such that it was impossible to hinder his advances.

“I’m impressed, Admiral,” praised Leonidas. He rarely commended anyone, and this was the first he had done after all the years. “Both sides of the coin have been taken into consideration, with equal weight given to the rationale of having mages such as the Yagami family in the unit.”

Leonidas looked at Chrono again. “Very well, Admiral Harlaown. I see no reason to disapprove of your proposition, after all the discussions we have had just now. I give you official permission to form the unit, with collaboration from the Ground Forces as needed.”

He extended a gloved hand to the Admiral, who accepted it warmly. The hands of the two men clasped warmly, sealing their newfound trust and friendship. Though instrumental at best, Chrono believed, from that moment on, that it was possible to bring their relationship further if they communicated with one another further. The Lieutenant-General might be strict and difficult, but he was not completely irrational. The mistrust and cynicisms that had been woven between the two Forces since Gaiz’s entrance had been broken, and a new frontier had opened between them.

“Just one last thing, Admiral,” Leonidas suddenly said as they pulled their hands apart.

“What is it?” Chrono asked. Was he too quick to assume on the improvement of the relationship?

“You mentioned much earlier that you would be taking command of the unit, didn’t you?” Leonidas questioned curiously.

“Ah, yes, that,” Chrono said, realization dawning in his mind. “For reasons of my own that I cannot reveal right now, I must be in charge of the unit. If you’re concerned of its legality, Clauses 18 and 19 of Section 7(A) in Chapter 12 of the Special Reservations for Commanders under Act 16 of the Exclusive Rights of Military Leaders mention specifically that an Admiral can take control of a smaller unit for special circumstances in the boundary of another Force as long as he or she relinquishes the powers, rights, and privileges given by the previous position he or she has, even if it’s just temporary.”

“I understand. But, are you sure with this?”

There was not even hesitation as he answered, “Yes.”

Leonidas noticed something in the Admiral’s expression as he spoke that was not present previously.

Something akin to …

Love?

Spoiler for Scene IV:

[Residential Area, Cranagan City] [January 21st, MC 081] [2134 hours]

A man sat alone in the living room, his eyes closed as he contemplated what had happened in the morning. He had rust-colored hair, and a handsome, fair face with a hawk-like nose. He was tall and lanky, with lean muscles accenting the shape of his body. Basking in the coolness of the night air and the tranquil peace of the house, he appeared quite relaxed.

But, his heart was troubled.

There was a soft creak of hinges as a door opened and closed from somewhere behind him. Light taps of feet on the wood-paneled floor indicated the coming of another person into the room, in his direction.

“Gabriel?” a voice spoke, its sound the tinkle of silvery bells.

It was Milady.

“Yes?” he said as he opened his eyes, which bore the color of deep ruby. He turned to look at Leona, dressed casually in a dress and a pair of jeans. Her lustrous hair shone in the moonlight, a silvery blue hue that was enchanting and mysterious. She smiled as she looked at him. But, he knew it was not genuine, and his heart felt as if it had shattered as he imagined the pain she must have went through to produce such an expression.

Concerned, he rose from the sofa. “You need not have done that, Milady,” he said, reaching out his arms to hold her.

“You seem troubled, and I thought it would better if the mood were lighter,” she said, the smile still on her face, but it disappeared moments later. Leona was once again her masked self.

“I guess it’s useless to hide anything from you, isn’t it?” Gabriel said, sighing. Then, he smiled warmly. “You are always so understanding, Milady.”

“Only because I am not capable of doing what others can do,” Leona replied expressionlessly. Both of them moved to a large sofa and took their seats. She looked at him. “In any case, enough about me. What were you thinking just now that you looked so disturbed?”

Gabriel was reluctant to speak, and he shifted his gaze to look at the floor to avoid Leona’s eyes.

“Was it something about this morning?” Leona spoke softly.

Gabriel turned sharply and looked at her, astonished. She spoke his mind. “How did you figure it out?” he said slowly.

“There are only two things that can bother you that much, Gabriel. First, your duty, and second, your responsibility. Xeno informed me that you weren’t around for breakfast and that you went out early in the morning. It isn’t too difficult to put two and two together for the answer.”

He sighed; Milady saw through everything. “I guess lying would do naught now.”

“Because you try too hard to do it,” Leona said, her eyes still looking at his face, at his crimson pupils. The blue depths of those mesmerizing irises gazed into his soul, revealing his inner self to her. Each time he looked into those gentle eyes, he felt little, insignificant, as if he were a peasant before the presence of a royalty. They sought his pain, his guilt, and with a kind, warm energy, tore them away from his tormented spirit.

It was the reason why he had felt so mortified now.

Gabriel was silent momentarily, then spoke slowly. “Inspector Acous contacted me this morning.”

“Ah,” Leona said, nodding in understanding. “You are supposed to report to him at this time of each year.”

“But, I didn’t,” he said, and averted his eyes. He could not look at Leona any longer

“Why did you not?” Leona asked, perplexed. “Was something the matter?”

“I have rejected such approach against you, Milady, after I came in here. It is a underhanded act that I cannot follow conscientiously. The guilt it will cause is much greater than the pain I will suffer if I refused to follow protocol.” He looked down at his hands; they were trembling slightly.

“Yet, here you are, riddled with remorse,” Leona said softly, her eyes looking with concern at the dejected man.

“I don’t know,” he admitted, sighing. “It’s a strange feeling; I felt as if I’ve betrayed you and the rest when I answered his call.”

“Is there a reason to think so?” Leona quizzed, finally understanding Gabriel’s confusion. “When you were first sent here by Inspector Acous, I’ve already told you that no matter what you do, even if it’s against us, you reserve every right to do as you think is appropriate. We will not blame you, as you are just performing your duty.”

“I don’t understand,” Gabriel said, raising his head again. “You’ve already known my purpose when I came, and you made it apparent to Kratos and Xeno as well. Why did you still allow me in, then?”

“Because we trust you, as well as the Inspector and the Admiral,” Leona answered. A slight tinge of pain escaped her lips, a short, fleeting stab in her mind, and it was gone. Yet, when she looked at him again, the same gentleness and compassion returned such that Gabriel could not help but feel the familiar kindness and warmth flowing from her.

All this despite the fact that she could not personally feel them at all, her innermost emotions subdued by the strength of her determination. It hurt Gabriel to think that she was suppressing herself while at the same time trying to portray what she was displaying now. It was an incredible deed that was extremely strenuous for her psyche, and only she alone could feel how much it pained her.

Gabriel wanted to help her, to ease her pain, but he did not know how or where to even begin. The least he could do was to make her happy and glad. However, the world was a harsh place to be, its problems plenty, its woes myriad. And Leona was there for them each time, helping them instead. He could not understand why she would do that for strangers such as he while she alone suffered the agony of her own difficulties.

She was both ice and fire, an entity that stood between life and death, light and darkness.

And Gabriel had come to accept her for what she was, ever since she first spoke to him the night he came here, on an assignment that was part of his duty since he joined the Bureau, and one of which he had now decided to abandon for her sake.

For Milady.

“Why?” he asked, still puzzled.

“The path that you choose is yours alone, Gabriel. Regardless of what you choose, we will not stop you, because you are the commander of your own life,” Leona answered, her voice barely a whisper. “Unless you deliberately mean us harm, in which we will definitely retaliate in kind, you retain the freedom to do what your heart and mind dictate you to.”

“But, you know exactly what I do. There is no doubt regarding the potential danger that you will be exposed to!” Gabriel exclaimed.

“Which, so far, has not revealed itself,” Leona replied calmly. Again, she tried to smile, her lips moving tremulously as she attempted to. It was faint, but warm. “Until then, you have our faith and our belief, and you’ve proven yourself so thus far. Even if you were our enemy, I am glad to have you by our side.”

Gabriel was moved and felt ashamed. “Is there no hate in your heart for what I was supposed to do?”

“If we could hate a foe so much, the effort to do that would be better channeled to find an ally worthy of friendship,” Leona said. Her delicate fingers grasped his calloused ones, and the gesture spoke volumes of what words could not express.

The trust and confidence Milady had were so strong that Gabriel finally understood. She trusts everyone so much that she is willing to put herself in danger for their sake, even if they were people unknown to her. A noble, if frivolous, bearing. Is that how Kratos and Xeno come to know her?

“Thank you, Milady,” Gabriel said, still not looking at her. “Thank you so much.”

“You are welcome,” she spoke softly, and with her other hand, she brushed his hair.

Gabriel looked up then, the decision he made a long time ago finally ready to be revealed. His ruby eyes sought the sapphire of Leona’s as he told her. “I have chosen to let go of my past, Milady, and embrace a new one with all of you.”

“Are you sure about this, Lieutenant?” Leona asked, taken aback by his words. “As I’ve said, we do not mind you being with us while you retain the position.”

“I know you all don’t, but I think it best that we share a closer bond now. I wish to relinquish the burden of my past so that I need not feel the glare of mistrust and suspicion,” he said, his eyes unwavering as they looked at her.

Leona was silent for a moment, considering his words. “None were given for as long as you’ve stayed here. I understand what you mean, but in doing so, you are sacrificing a lot for us. Is it worth it to do so?” Her tone was grave.

“A sacrifice I am willing to make, and its worth more than whatever I could dream of,” Gabriel replied, determination burning in his eyes. He gave no room for doubt.

Without words, Leona embraced him. “You have suffered so much for us, Gabriel. There is no word that I could use to express our gratitude.”

Gabriel was speechless, unsure of how to react to the gesture. It was affectionate, and it made him glad. Slowly, he put his arms around her, returning her action. “None at all, Milady. None at all,” he said softly, a smile touching his lips. For once, he felt truly happy in the house, a wonderful feeling that fluttered like the blooming of flowers after long periods of despairing conditions.

She released him after a few moments and looked at him warmly for several seconds. Gabriel could not help but smile. There was silence between them as a new understanding was forged, a new camaraderie sealed. Then, she turned and rose from the sofa, walking to the kitchen.

“I am going to make some supper. Xeno and Kratos should be back any time now,” she said, a fresh quality apparent in her voice. Even her steps appeared lighter and sprightly.

Milady, too, seems to be happy, mused Gabriel. He pulled himself up from the seat. “I’ll help you.”

Just then, there was a faint clink of keys being inserted into a door lock and then the sound of a door being opened and closed. Two figures walked from the entrance into the light that illuminated the living room. One of them was silver-haired Kratos, his frame slightly taller than the man beside him.

The other man wore a black shirt with an open front—revealing slightly his muscled chest and powerful collarbones—and a matching pair of dark trousers. He had both hands in the pockets. His hard face looked as if it had been weathered by rough times; his eyes were the color of shadowed night, covered partially by vagrant strands of his unruly twilight-hued hair. A slender silver earring dangled from his left ear. His large nose was broken before at the bridge, and his lips were a thin, grim line that was curved into what was passable for a sardonic smile. It was indicative of someone who had rarely smile previously, and only not long before the expression was returned him, even if it was incomplete.

“Welcome home, Kratos, Xeno,” Gabriel greeted them, smiling. I will need to find time to tell them about my decision.

Kratos nodded, also smiling. Xeno, the ominous-looking man, flashed him a wolfish grin, revealing immaculate white teeth that stood out in contrast with his attire. “Are you expecting something else, Gabriel?” he asked, the grin still on his face.

If Gabriel had not known Xeno, he would have thought the man to be mad. His character was so antagonistic of his behaviors that one would find it difficult to believe he was the same man. The first impression one would give Xeno was that he was cold, emotionless, a man of no attachment and desires, given his solemn and dark outlook.

True enough, in the past, he was such a person.

Yet, something—or someone—must had induced the change in his personality, and Gabriel was sure it was the same person that did his. The evolution had been slow and arduously difficult, but now, Xeno was the second most mirthful man in the house aside from Kratos, even if he still retained his past demeanors.

And he had become the third, drawn inexorably by the influence of she who was an enigma with a mysterious power.

Gabriel shook his head. “Not really,” he said. “I was just thinking that if the two of you came back any later, I would be able to have the supper all to myself,” he added, laughing.

“Don’t be such a glutton, Gabriel,” Leona chided as she came out from the kitchen. “Eat too much and you’ll become as fat as a buffalo.” Gabriel laughed even harder. Annoyed at not being taken seriously, Leona gave him a light rap on the chest. He mocked a pained look, before continuing to laugh again. Leona glared at him, fuming.

Kratos and Xeno looked at the exchange between the two with an amused expression on their faces, each of them arching an eyebrow in unison.

“Something must have happened between the two of you,” Kratos said.

“Something … delicious,” Xeno chipped in suggestively, nodding. He grinned again.

Gabriel stopped laughing, and with Leona, looked at the two of them. “Ah, yes, ‘delicious’ indeed. I’ll find some time later to talk to both of you about it,” Gabriel said, winking.

“That doesn’t bode so well, brother Kratos,” Xeno said sagely.

“I find it so as well, brother Xeno,” Kratos replied in the same manner. “Let us pray that it doesn’t involve anything bigger than our little brother here sending a delectable dish into charred destruction.” Then, the three men laughed, while Leona merely smiled.

When the mirth dissipated, Leona asked, “Where have the two of you been?”

“Ah, yes,” Kratos said, his expression becoming serious suddenly. Even Xeno, too, looked grim. “Archangel,” he said, raising his hand.

<Yes, sir.> the jewel on the ring spoke in a female voice. It flashed briefly, and then a large screen flickered in the air before them. A series of lines appeared, connecting numerous thumbnails of people. A small caption was placed below each thumbnail, the name of the individuals listed in the white Mid-childan letters.

It was the roster of members of the unit, and the four of them were in it.

“This is …” Leona was lost for words, even though she knew what it was. She just did not expect them to be part of it.

“Inspector Acous messaged me this evening,” Kratos explained. “It seemed that he wants to us to become part of the frontline members, and Admiral Harlaown has personally asked if we wished to join. I am to ask for the decision and send them a reply before midnight. If we so decided to be in it, we are to meet at the former Riot Force 6 office at 0730 hours tomorrow morning.”

Leona was wordless for a moment, pondering the matter. “What do all of you think?”

At this, all three of them said, though unplanned, in unison: “We follow whatever you decide, Milady.”

Leona’s face was suddenly blanketed by darkness such that her expression became inscrutable. There was a long moment of silence broken only by the screeches of crickets as all three men waited for her decision.

Finally, she raised her head and looked directly into their eyes. Her blue ones seemed to be ablaze with a strange fire as she spoke in a steady, strong voice.

“Tell them that we will be there.”

Spoiler for Scene V:

[Former Riot Force 6 Office, Cranagan City] [January 22nd, MC 081] [0730 hours]

Even before the sun had finished its ascent from beneath the hills that marked the rim of the horizon, a large congregation of uniformed people was already gathered in the large hall of the white building. There were excited whispers, hushed talks, and, at one time or another, a burst of laughter among the crowd. The polished marble floor shone as the first rays of morning sun filtered in through the windows set high on the walls of the building, sending glitters of dawn to color the interior. As time passed on and the clock continued to tick to 7:30 AM, the atmosphere became tenser and the discussion vanished into a stoic silence.

From a door at the far end of the hall, a number of figures emerged, clad in full uniform and complete standards. Leading them was a tall, handsome man with neat hair and piercing emerald eyes. Directly to his right was an officious-looking man with lavender hair and wearing a pair of spectacles. Behind the duo ambled seventeen other important personae; two smaller figures floated effortlessly with them. A charged atmosphere followed them as they approached, a heavy sense of apprehension and anticipation lingering in their midst.

A few steps before the assembled members, they stopped. There was a breathless moment when they appraised the gathered units, sensing their trepidation, their excitement, their belief. There were looks of recognition among them, a few with incredulous expressions, but mostly there was a general feeling of awe and expectations. The twenty-one officers looked at each of the faces of the gathered personnel, numbering one thousand members, assigned with different roles and duties. Then, they gave a formal salute, returned in kind by all of the members.

And they smiled.

“Welcome, everyone,” Chrono addressed the assembly present in the hall with a clear, loud voice. “I am your Commander, Chrono Harlaown,” he said. “And this is my right hand, Griffith Lowran,” he continued, indicating the person to his right. The violet-haired man inclined his head slightly, smiling.

“As all of you might have been informed much earlier before coming here, the purpose of this unit is to defend the people of Mid-childa from intruders that seek the highly dangerous power of the Lost Logia. I believe all of you have known the possible risks and hazards involved with this unit, taking into deep considerations the perils that will not fail to accompany the missions, before agreeing to join. It is a dangerous task, one that not many would volunteer to be in, except for those present here,” Chrono said, the flash of a smile briefly passed his expression. “For that, I thank you all.”

And slowly, he clapped his hands, his action accompanied by the rest of the officers gathered behind him. There was a stunned moment for the members as they tried to take in what was happening. Moments later, they joined in, clapping together, such that the entire hall echoed with the sound of their applause. It continued for several seconds, the din reverberating off the walls of the closed building, forming a sort of anthem that strengthened their resolve and reinforced their beliefs.

Chrono then raised his hands, and the applause slowly died down, though the faces of the gathered members remained stanch. “All of you have been taken in from various Forces, based on your strengths, your personalities, and your convictions,” he addressed them again. “It is to my hope that all of you will work together in order to accomplish the objectives of this unit. As it is, the unit has the approval of all three Armed Forces, and receives the support of the Saint Church as well as the High Command. Links have been established with the related departments, and help can be obtained should it be necessary.”

Without missing a beat, he opened his arms to indicate the people gathered behind him. “These officers, along with all of you, will form the backbone of this unit. They have proven themselves capable of leading and making wise decisions when situations demand them. They will work closely with you, tackling the missions thrust to the unit, and I believe you to do the same.”

The members shouted in unison: “Yes, Commander!”

Chrono smiled. “Then, it is time for you to be acquainted with them. Vice-Commander Lowran will do this honor.” He saluted and then stepped off to the side, allowing Griffith to take his place. The bespectacled Vice-Commander cleared his throat before addressing the assembly.

“Thank you, Commander Harlaown,” he said. Smiling, he flicked his hand, and a huge screen blinked into life to their side. The complete roster stood in plain sight, with enlarged pictures and captions. “We will begin with the Intelligence and Support Division,” Griffith said. The roster faded momentarily, and was replaced then by the enlarged pictures of four individuals, under their division’s name, complete with their ranks and duties.

“The leader for the group will be Brigadier-General Yagami Hayate, and her assistant will be her Unison Device and also acting Sergeant Major, Reinforce Zwei, as well as Inspector Verossa Acous from the Intelligence Department. Doctor Shamal is the Head of Medical Care and Emergencies. They will be in charge of providing information and treatment as well as backing up the frontline members as necessary.”

The white-suited Inspector and the Brigadier-General stepped forward to stand at Griffith’s right. Perched on Hayate’s shoulder was one of the smaller figures that were present in the hall, a little girl with silver hair and a charming smile. From behind, Shamal, a blonde woman with a kind face and wearing, in addition to the uniform, a white medical coat, walked to their side. As one, they saluted, and said, “Pleased to meet all of you.” They were greeted in kind.

Then, Griffith introduced the members of the Communications Division: Shario Finieno as the head, with Lucino Liilie and Alto Krauetta as her main staff. Shario was a perky, bespectacled woman with sea-green hair, while Lucino had short light purple hair and a cheerful smile. Alto, an energetic girl with short brown hair, was also the unit’s pilot who would be sending the forward members to the mission sites. Their purpose was to handle the unit’s logistics, links, networks, and means of interactions, and most of all, helm Crusader, the main center of operation.

“Now, the Research and Development Division will be revealed,” Griffith announced. The main screen changed, as it did the previous two introductions, to show the pictures of two persons: one who was a middle-aged man with black-colored eyes and dark blue hair that flared a little in the front, and the second being the image of a bespectacled woman. “The Head of the Division will be Aurion Dauer, and his assistant is Mariel Atenza. The both of them would be handling the devices and arms of the units, both upgrades and repairs, as well as developing new things that will be of benefit to the unit.”

Aurion trudged forward, his assistant at his side. Both of them had the same white coat as Shamal over their uniform. His look was so serious that some of the new members who looked him in the eyes cringed. His penetrating eyes darted around them, sending a wave of anxiety into their midst. Then, his mouth curved into a smile, a change of expression so sudden it took them by surprise. “Well met, men,” he said, and he and Mariel—also smiling—saluted them.

Not quite recovered from the abrupt confusion, they managed to salute and stammered: “Y-Yes, sir!”

“Oh, and before I forget,” Aurion said, looking at them again with those dark eyes. He slid a hand into his pocket, and when he took it out, there was a cell phone in his hand. He thrust it forward, as if he was going to attack them, and the front row of the members staggered slightly backward.

“Almaria, your turn,” he spoke softly.

<Yes, Aurion-san.> the cell phone spoke with a sweet voice. <Hello, members. I am Almaria.>

There was a second of stunned silence, another second of nervous laughter, and then the members regained their composure and replied: “Yes, ma’am!”

<I am not your leader, just call me Almaria next time.> the device said. When no reply was given, there was a brief flash of red color from the phone. <Do you understand?> Almaria’s voice took on a low, dangerous tone.

Surprised and suddenly afraid, they quickly said: “Y-Yes, Almaria!”

<Good, good.> Almaria answered, sounding satisfied. <Until we meet again, then.>

“Wonderfully done, Almaria,” Aurion said to the device affectionately. He brought it close to him.

<I can but try.> it replied sweetly.

Aurion chuckled. “A splendid performance, as always.” Then, he slid the phone back into his pocket. With Mariel at his right, he walked to stand beside Hayate.

“Oji-chan, playful as always, I see” Hayate whispered, giggling. Aurion smirked roughly, looking at quirk of his unofficial ‘niece’.

To restore the attention after Aurion’s bizarre introduction, Griffith had to actually raise his voice a little. “Please pardon the Head of the Research and Development Division. That was his version of a friendly acquaintanceship,” he said. It drew laughter from the higher officers who knew him, but for the members, they still looked wary. “In any case, we’re coming to the end of the introduction. We now have the forward leaders to present, and that will be all.”

At this, he walked to stand beside Chrono. The main screen flickered as it formed three columns. Each column bore the name of the squadrons in large white letters, complete with the core members and their ranks underneath it. In tandem with the change in the screen, all nine forward members—ten, including the second small figure akin to Reinforce Zwei—strode forward, the squad leaders in the center with their assistants at their sides. All of them seemed to be brimming with confidence and enthusiasm.

“To standardize, all squad leaders have now been temporarily assigned to the rank of Captains until their service in this unit expires. Their chief assistants will be ranked as Vice-Captains, and their secondary assistants as First Lieutenants,” Griffith explained.

The rest of the members nodded in understanding.

“First, we have the Captain of the Gallant Squad, Leona Aurora Seraphina Tyriel, with her Vice-Captain Kratos Whitewing and First Lieutenant Gabriel Sunstrider,” Griffith said, indicating the trio. All three of them gave a smart salute.

“Next, Fate Testarossa Harlaown will take charge of the Valor Squad. Tesla will become her vice, and Xeno Graymist is their secondary assistant,” the Vice-Commander continued. Fate beamed warmly and saluted, followed by the blue-haired Knight of the Sky, Tesla, and her new lieutenant, Xeno Graymist. Although there was little that she knew about Xeno, she would make it a priority to understand him later.

“And finally,” Griffith announced. “Captain Takamachi Nanoha will lead the Justice Squad, with Signum as the Vice-Captain and Teana Lanster as the First Lieutenant. Agito, a Unison Device and also acting Second Lieutenant, will accompany them.”

The four of them saluted at once. Signum was a pink-haired woman with a cool and collected demeanor. One of the Wolkenritter, along with Shamal, Zafira, Vita, and Tesla, she was also famed as the Blazing Flame General because of her affinity with fire-based attacks. Agito, who was a Unison Device specializing also in fire magic but was without a Lord, found a kindred relationship in Signum after the Jail Scaglietti Incident, where she was entrusted to the Knight of the Sword by her former friend, Zest Grangeitz. Her bat-like wings fluttered softly as she stood on Signum’s shoulder.

Nanoha walked a couple of steps forward than the rest. There was a hushed silence as they watched her intently. She was the frontline members’ representative, tasked to deliver a speech. She stood in silence for a few moments before speaking. Her voice was low, but it was heard clearly nonetheless.

“Actually, we have nothing much to say to all of you. Most of them have already been said by everyone before us,” Nanoha began. “Many of us here have been acquainted before and experienced things together, even seeing the full circle of life and death. There are memories both bitter and sweet, the sharing of laughter and tears, joy and sadness. We have felt all those things before, and now, we’re undoubtedly going to relive them.”

“We have encountered fear, anxiety, the palpable feeling of something lost, both temporary and permanent. I myself have nearly lost someone dear to me,” she said, and for a moment, her expression was poignant. Then, she looked up at the members, her lock of brown hair flaring as she did so. Her lavender eyes were strong and determined. “Yet, in the face of those bleak days, there is always a shining beacon that takes our hands and lifts us up from the depths of despair. That beacon is called hope.”

She took Leona and Fate’s hands, grasping them firmly. Both were taken by surprise, but did not resist. “Now, all of you are going to become that beacon. I ask nothing else other than for you to trust us, to believe in us, and to have faith in us. Not only that, do the same for your comrades and your friends. In turn, we will give you the same conviction, because we trust all of you here.”

Nanoha stopped and took a deep breath before continuing. “Help each other when trouble arises, and extend such aid to those that need it, even if they are strangers. You may find it strange and ridiculous now, but in the end, when you have experienced it for yourself, you will understand my words.”

“That will be all,” she concluded and released her comrades’ hands. She saluted the members and politely returned to her position.

There was utter silence in the hall as the members looked at the officers before them, contemplating what Nanoha had just said. Then, there was a great, resounding cheer as they clapped and whooped. All one thousand members yelled in joy and mirth, sharing in Nanoha’s sentiments. Even if some did not understand fully, they cheered regardless, sharing in the atmosphere, hugging their new comrades and allies. The officers smiled warmly, finding their solidarity something to be proud of.

Chrono smiled inwardly. As always, Nanoha could deliver a speech with aplomb, even when she did not look suited for it. Looking at the jovial members and officers, he spoke to no one in particular.

“Welcome to Escutcheon.”

Up until this part, I expect a lot of haxx-busting and canon-cannon shots to occur, especially on von Khrull.

*raises anti-haxx and canon-cannon shields*
*hides*

The third part (mock battle) will be posted once Keroko replies.