"...To tell you the truth, it was quite dangerous back then. Just when I thought the situation was settled, the enemy suddenly unleashed a strike called 'God's Right Hand.' This peerless, world-altering divine ability instantly shattered all my offensives, even knocking me unconscious to the point of complete oblivion. Then, just as I thought my life was about to end there, I suddenly recalled all my past moments. Figures flickered through my mind like a revolving lantern, and brilliant stars shone above me, seemingly questioning: What is the purpose of your life? Why do you fight? Are you really going to fall like this? Have you forgotten all those oaths you swore... Hearing these words, I could no longer control myself. I told myself then... well, Xiao Lin, stop messing around, just get into my bowl already."

In a rather upscale restaurant, Lin Luo, Nanoha, Fate, Hayate, Vivio, and Littlespring 2—the personality-type fusion magic device always carried by Hayate in her specialized handbag-shaped mobile quarters—were gathered around a secluded table by the window on the second floor, chatting while enjoying delicious food.

Although Lin Luo was already well-informed about Nanoha and the others through his own investigations, Nanoha and the others knew absolutely nothing about what had transpired with Lin Luo over the past ten years. Naturally, what they most wanted to know was the reason why their Contract Chains had broken. So, not long after they sat down, they all began to interrogate him simultaneously.

Lin Luo felt that having died once wasn't exactly a secret; even if he didn't mention it, they would find out eventually. But in this atmosphere, there was absolutely no need to bring up such a mood-dampening topic. Besides, girls’ hearts were very delicate; even if he was sitting there alive now, it might still cause them lingering fear.

So, he decisively framed the Fourth Holy War as a very cliché, melodramatic tale of a brave hero challenging an evil Archdemon—first raging, then being pushed back, finally achieving an explosive burst of power, enduring countless hardships and various flashbacks, ultimately defeating the **Archdemon... oh wait, finally defeating the evil Archdemon.

But as he spoke, the little thing, only thirty centimeters tall, accidentally got a bit of wine on itself and ended up bumping right into his face while flying. Lin Luo instinctively snatched it up. Then, he casually tossed it into his bowl.

"Ugh... My head is so dizzy, why are the lights above me flying?" The little thing lay in Lin Luo's bowl, looking completely dazed, its speech even slurred.

"Lin, you're drunk," Hayate looked at her with concern.

This small being called Littlespring 2 was a personality-type fusion magic device personally created by Hayate from the residual fragments left behind after the regulatory personality of the Book of the Firmament voluntarily self-destructed. Though tiny, resembling a pudding, it was originally quite substantial. Besides being usable as a magic device, it could fuse with Hayate and all the Protection Knights for combat, and it was even a competent mage in its own right. It could cast magic independently and even possessed a magic device called the Book of the Azure Sky... a magic device of a magic device, feeling much like Yakumo Yukari's Shikigami's Shikigami.

Because it was personality-based, Littlespring 2 was much like a living creature, requiring rest and food to replenish its energy. It was highly intelligent, meticulous and diligent when working, and currently served actively as Hayate’s secretary and assistant, holding a respectable rank, already quite capable of managing things independently.

However, once drunk, it could only act cute.

On the other hand, the regulatory personality of the Book of the Night Sky, Linfys, which had vanished ten years ago, had its existence restored several years prior, thanks to the new abilities Hayate gained from the Heart of the World. After all, even though Linfys had vanished, the Book of the Night Sky remained, and Hayate's abilities were tied to existence, making it not difficult, though somewhat troublesome, to restore Linfys’s presence within the Book of the Night Sky.

Since Linfys was essentially the Book of the Night Sky itself, her capabilities were extremely powerful, even surpassing the Protection Knights. Because of this, it was a waste to keep such a powerful figure idle at the General Bureau. Furthermore, she herself wished to alleviate some of Hayate’s burdens, so she frequently traveled to other worlds on missions... As it stood, she was currently away in a rather distant world for a certain matter and wouldn't be seen anytime soon.

"And then?" Vivio asked Lin Luo eagerly. She loved listening to stories the most, but hated being left hanging midway through one. She had been engrossed in Lin Luo’s tale and desperately wanted to know the ending, so she paid no mind to Littlespring 2’s antics.

Lin Luo continued: "Because of the encouragement from countless people, I awakened the greatest power within me, and finally, at the last possible moment, I defeated the evil Archdemon, saving world peace. Although the Contract Chain broke as a result, it couldn't be helped. Finally... amidst the sorrowful wind blowing across the Yi River... er, no, set to the background music of 'Young Man, Go Make a Miracle,' I waved goodbye to those around me and proceeded to another world to continue my world-saving endeavors."

"Uncle is amazing!" Being a child after all, even such a rough, outlined story captivated Vivio. She looked at Lin Luo with utter admiration.

"It's nothing, nothing at all. That's just the romance of a man," Lin Luo felt a little lightheaded after being looked at in that way for so long. He smiled modestly while reaching out his chopsticks toward his bowl without even looking.

"Ah-woo!"

As soon as Lin Luo grabbed with his chopsticks, he felt like he had snagged a rather large piece of meat, and this piece of meat even made a strange noise.

"Don't eat Lin!" Before he could fully react, Hayate exclaimed, snatching Littlespring 2 away from Lin Luo’s chopsticks with lightning speed and cradling her cherished treasure in her hands.

"Oh dear, so little Lin was in my bowl. Honestly, I was almost eaten," Lin Luo chuckled, as if discussing something trivial.

Hayate instantly gave him a wounded look, while Nanoha and Fate let out soft chuckles. Although Lin Luo hadn't fully explained the matter of the Contract Chain, now that he was back, the past issues were no longer that important. They didn't feel the need to pry further.

"Oh my, isn't this General Harlawein? What a coincidence running into you here," just then, an abrupt voice cut in, shattering the harmonious atmosphere among them.

Lin Luo instinctively looked toward the source of the voice. He saw a handsome, fair-haired young man in his mid-twenties, dressed in a military uniform, walking down from the staircase. Though still several meters away, he was greeting Fate with extreme enthusiasm. Especially when Fate turned to look at him, the way he looked at Fate's eyes was filled with an infatuation obvious even to an idiot.

What to make of this? Fate's suitor?

Well, considering Fate's beauty, figure, gentle disposition, and excellent character, Lin Luo wouldn't believe for a second that she didn't have suitors. After all, this wasn't a world without men. Even though she was already cohabiting with Nanoha and raising a daughter, in the eyes of the outside world, she was still a single woman, and those harboring affection for her were countless as carp crossing a river.

In fact, it wasn't just Fate; there were quite a few people within the Time-Space Administration who held improper designs on Nanoha and Hayate too. Young and beautiful women are always popular with men, especially when they are as outstanding as they are.

However, as a hero, Nanoha seemed too much like a flower on a high mountain, unattainable. Most men felt an inferiority complex in front of her, unable to hold their heads up high. Therefore, though she was respected by countless people, there wasn't a single man who dared to pursue her... A sense of reverence prevented those young men from developing feelings of romance.

It was less about not daring and more about feeling unworthy.

Fate and Hayate were different. Although they held high positions in the Time-Space Administration, they were still far out of reach for most young people, especially Hayate, who was at the pinnacle of politics; it was difficult for ordinary people to even secure a meeting with her, let alone court her.

Only those at the rank of General or above were qualified to sit as equals before Hayate. However, the youngest among these figures were middle-aged men in their late forties or fifties, and even the most gentlemanly among them feared their own aging wives at home.

So, after all is said and done, among the 'Big Three,' it was only Vice Admiral Fate, who occasionally went to the front lines and often traveled around, who possessed the largest number of suitors. Yet, among these suitors, very few dared to openly express their admiration to Fate's face... after all, a Vice Admiral was also a high-ranking official.

Currently, the Administration was largely governed by the older generation; even the youngest were over thirty, already married and established. People like Nanoha and the others who reached the center of power at such a young age could only be considered anomalies.

As for this blonde fellow before him, since he dared to publicly display his affection for Fate, he clearly wasn't a common soldier. In fact, just from his attire and demeanor, Lin Luo could judge that this person was either a second-generation rich kid or a second-generation official, definitely holding no small position in the Time-Space Administration.

"Who is this guy?" Lin Luo quietly asked Nanoha.

"He is the son of the Deputy Chairman of the Unified Staff Council, and also one of the most outstanding graduates of the Magic Academy. After graduation, he joined the military and achieved many merits, making him one of the most anticipated young men today. His name is Karar, currently a Colonel in the army, but with his abilities, he should be promoted to General rank within a year or two. He is very capable, and his character is good too. He has always been fond of Fate, although she has politely rejected him several times, he doesn't seem to be giving up," Nanoha whispered.

"I see..." Lin Luo nodded slightly. From Nanoha's tone, she seemed to have a decent impression of this blonde man named Karar. But Nanoha, you keep referring to him as a young man, forgetting that you yourself are even younger? Calling this blonde fellow the most anticipated young man—where does that put yourself?

Lin Luo grumbled inwardly while closely observing the other party. He had to admit that in terms of both appearance and etiquette, this fellow was indeed excellent, although still a notch below himself. Coupled with his background, he was undoubtedly the Prince Charming in the hearts of countless naive young girls... If this were a harem anime, this fellow would undoubtedly be the protagonist.

Lin Luo silently judged him. Although this blonde fellow intended to NTR him, his current impression wasn't one of disgust or aversion. After all, who someone likes is their own freedom. As long as he doesn't resort to despicable methods, Lin Luo wouldn't have an extreme reaction. If he were to wipe out the entire clan of anyone who dared to pursue the girl he liked, how would he ever live?

Of course, no matter his lack of aversion, since someone dared to pursue his favored concubine, he had to be prepared to be teased by him!

In love, there is only competition, no surrender!

Meanwhile, under the watchful eyes of the group, Karar approached enthusiastically. He first greeted Nanoha and Hayate, then turned his full attention to Fate, showering her with warm words full of admiration and concern... As for Lin Luo, Karar acted as if he hadn't even seen him, completely ignoring him.

"Um, Colonel Karar..." Conversely, Fate had a troubled expression. She truly didn't know how to respond. She had politely refused him several times; why wouldn't he give up? Why couldn't he understand that as long as no confession was made, no one would get hurt?

"Fate, is this your friend?" Just as Fate was growing distressed, Lin Luo stood up and pointed at Karar, asking her.

"Yes... Yes, he is," Fate replied with a hint of embarrassment, nodding.

"Vice Admiral Harlawein, and this is?" Karar seemed to just notice Lin Luo, looking toward Fate with a questioning gaze, though there was a noticeable wariness in his eyes.

"I am Fate's brother; just call me Lin Luo," before Fate could speak, Lin Luo spoke first.

"Brother?" Karar was instantly taken aback. "But I recall Vice Admiral Harlawein’s brother is Admiral Chrono."

Lin Luo smiled faintly. "Just as my sister isn't limited to just Fate, Fate's brothers aren't limited to just one either. Ask her yourself if you don't believe me."

Karar quickly turned to look at Fate, who nodded slightly.

"So, you are Elder Brother! My name is Karar; it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance!" Immediately, Karar’s eyes showed less caution and more respect, and he greeted Lin Luo enthusiastically.

He didn't flaunt his family background, nor did he engage in excessive, false pleasantries; his tone carried sincerity. From this aspect, Lin Luo could see his character was indeed decent, certainly not comparable to some nouveau riche. This further improved Lin Luo's impression of him, but... getting so eager to call him 'Elder Brother'—aren't you a bit too familiar?

Lin Luo felt extremely speechless and cut straight to the chase. "I can see you seem quite concerned about my sister, Fate. Are you trying to pursue her?"

"Uh!" Lin Luo’s words made not only Karar but also Fate extremely awkward... That was too direct!

Karar paused for a moment, then mustered his courage and said, "Yes, my admiration for Vice Admiral Harlawein is genuine. I beg Elder Brother to grant my wish!"

Lin Luo nodded, then pulled Fate closer to him, placing his hands on her shoulders and saying, "I understand your resolve, but you see, Fate prefers men like me..."

"Huh?" Hearing this, Karar's eyes widened in utter disbelief, while Fate instantly blushed crimson, burying her head like an ostrich, wishing she could vanish from the spot immediately.

As for those nearby, Nanoha and Hayate's expressions were even more spectacular.

Lin Luo ignored everyone’s reaction and continued, "You can try to pursue Fate, but I do not accept men weaker than me... Does that sound strange? Never mind, the meaning is about the same. Let's have a competition. If you can defeat me, I will permit you to pursue Fate. How about it?"

"What does Elder Brother wish to compete in?" Karar asked without the slightest hesitation.

"Don't ask what yet. If you win, you earn the right to pursue Fate; if you lose, there will be a penalty."

"That's fine. Such terms are natural for a competition."

"Excellent, I like decisive people," Lin Luo nodded with a smile, then pointed outside the window. "The qualification to pursue Fate is an unparalleled honor, so consequently, the penalty for losing shouldn't be too casual. How about this... If you lose, you have to run one lap around the outdoor track naked. What do you say?"

"Run naked?" Karar immediately looked sideways.

"Brother, you are being too reckless!" However, before Karar could retort, Nanoha pulled Lin Luo aside and said dissatisfiedly, "Putting aside that this competition is unfair to both Fate and Karar, how can you decide Fate's life in such a hasty manner? And if Karar really loses and actually runs naked... runs naked on the track, it will cause a huge scandal!"

Indeed, for a Colonel to strip naked and run would be a complete loss of face.

Lin Luo waved his hand and chuckled, "Don't worry, I know what I'm doing. The stake of the competition is merely the qualification to pursue Fate, not Fate herself. If Karar wins, it doesn't mean he gets Fate; whether she agrees or refuses still depends on Fate's own will. As for running naked, I have the same stake. Moreover, if a man lacks the resolve to sacrifice his dignity for the woman he loves, then he cannot speak of true love!"

"True love?" Hearing this, Karar seemed provoked. A faint fire glowed in his eyes. He squared his feet and declared loudly, "Captain Takamachi, Elder Brother is absolutely right. It's just running naked. If I don't even have the resolve to pay that price for the woman I love, then I don't deserve the qualification to pursue Vice Admiral Harlawein. Please, Captain Takamachi, do not stop me!"

"Eh?!" Nanoha was speechless.

"See, he agreed," Lin Luo shrugged, then turned to Fate. "Fate, what is your opinion? If you don't agree, we'll just pretend I said nothing, alright?"

Fate looked up, her beautiful face tinged with a faint blush. Finally, under Lin Luo's gaze, she gently nodded. "Whatever Brother says, I will follow... I trust Brother."

"Fate?" Nanoha and Hayate were both surprised, completely not expecting Fate to agree. But since she herself consented, they couldn't press the issue further. Besides, just as Lin Luo said, whether or not to accept Karar would ultimately depend on Fate's own volition... truth be told, this competition had nothing to do with Fate herself.

Meanwhile, Karar was ecstatic. He quickly said, "Then what does Elder Brother want to compete in? Let me state clearly first: I am proficient in military affairs, politics, combat, and magic. I also dabble a bit in arts like music and painting. Elder Brother, please instruct me!"

You are indeed multi-talented!

Lin Luo muttered inwardly, then walked back to the dining table. He arranged the food on the table into two servings and smiled, "I'm not good at military or politics, I don't like fighting, and I don't have much artistic talent. I'm only slightly capable when it comes to eating. So, today we will compete in eating. Whoever finishes what's in front of them first wins. Are you game?"

Lin Luo pointed to the two servings of food on the table and said so.

A competition of eating? This was the first time Karar had heard of such a contest, but he quickly agreed.

"No problem."

Soon, the two sat down. After a starting signal, they both began eating the food before them. In pursuit of victory, Karar ate voraciously, while Lin Luo ate slowly and deliberately, making Nanoha and the others anxious.

A moment later, Karar had finished all the food, while Lin Luo had only eaten three pieces of bread.

"Elder Brother, I have finished," Karar wiped his mouth, a triumphant smile on his face.

Lin Luo also smiled, "Not necessarily. You clearly still have so much left."

"It's all finished," Karar held up his empty plate.

Lin Luo shook his head. "I said earlier that whoever finishes what is in front of them first wins. And the things in front of you aren't just the food."

"You mean..." Karar suddenly understood something.

Lin Luo nodded with a smile. "The plate is also a thing."

"How can I eat this! Elder Brother, are you playing a trick on me?" Karar jumped up instantly.

"Who told you it can't be eaten?" Lin Luo retorted.

"This is a plate! How can a person possibly eat it!"

Hearing these words, Lin Luo slammed his hand on the table, his expression serious. "So, your concept of love is only at the human level—too superficial! True love knows no age, no gender, no social status, no life or death, no race. If you can only manage love at a mere human level, how dare you aspire to pursue Fete?!"

"This..." Kalar was instantly struck speechless. "Then, Elder Brother..."

"Very well, I will show you what love beyond the human realm looks like!" Lin Luo declared solemnly. Then, to the utter shock of everyone present, he lifted the empty plate before him to his mouth, and with a loud crunch, actually bit a chunk out of it, swallowing it down noisily.

In mere moments, he had completely devoured the plate. For a final flourish, he even pulled out a napkin to wipe his mouth, chuckling, "Crunchy, tastes like chicken. How about a plate for you...?" Kalar was completely terrified, his bladder threatening to give way. Damn it! Is this a man or a monster?!