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EspañolMAGICAL GIRL LYRICAL NANOHA TERMINOLOGY
This is a 'glossary of terms' from the anime and manga series ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha'', and its sequels ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' and ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS''.
'Magic' is defined in ''Nanoha'' as the technological system, typically the Mid-Childa system, used to control magical power. Magical "spells" are stored as programs until they are activated through a trigger by a practitioner.[1]
A 'device' in the ''Nanoha'' universe denotes a staff, rod, or other implement employed by a mage. It has been shown in the series, however, that a mage need not use a device to use magic; examples include Yūno Scrya and Lindy Harlaown. In their inactive states, devices have varied forms, from marble-like crystal spheres to cards. When activated, the device may transform its structure depending on the type of magic that the mage intends to cast. As magic "spells" are defined as "programs" in this series, the device can act similarly to electronic storage media, recording and recalling the spells that the mage has cast. Devices are primarily used as weapons in the ''Nanoha'' series, whether through the use of combat magic or through swinging the devices themselves.
Devices generally have the ability to speak, although their coherence and verbosity depends on the type of device. For example, an Armed or Storage Device will generally speak in very short phrases, whereas Intelligent or Unison Devices are capable of constructing more complex sentences. The language spoken by a device depends on its system—Mid-Childa Devices speak English, while the known Belka Armed Devices speak German (however, the advanced Reinforce has shown proficiency in Japanese, perhaps due to her nature as a Unison Device). In the series, the mage is always shown to understand what his or her device is saying. It can also be noted that devices tend to refer to their mages with male titles even if the mage in question is female (Master, Sir, Meister). Ironically, the already male Chrono is referred to by the gender-neutral "Boss".
Devices have an auto-repair mode when inactive, and will automatically deactivate if the damage inflicted is significant. Particularly severe damage can warrant both the auto-repair mode and reactivation to replace components within the device.
Five types of devices are recognized in the series as of 2007: Intelligent Devices, Storage Devices, Armed Devices, Unison Devices and Boost Devices. Intelligent, Storage and Boost devices are used in the Mid-Childa magic system, while Armed and Unison devices are used in the Ancient Belka system. The Modern Belka system uses Intelligent and Armed devices.
;Auto guard:The magic spell that automatically activates if the mage is under attack but cannot respond due to surprise or injury.
;Cartridge system: Cartridges are capsules (shaped like blank rifle rounds) containing compressed magical energy. When used in a device, it releases that energy all at once, providing a significant boost in power. Intelligent Devices are not usually able to handle cartridge systems, due to the potential instability, and the strain on the user.
;Full drive:The most powerful form of an Intelligent Device.
'Intelligent Devices', as the name implies, incorporate sophisticated artificial intelligence in their programming, enabling them to have some degree of autonomy.
If an Intelligent Device does not "agree" that a maintenance operation is complete, it can persistently manifest its "displeasure" with an error code. Both Raising Heart and Bardiche, after severe damage from the Wolkenritter's Armed Devices, raise code E203 and request the TSAB to install a CVK-792-compatible system—more precisely, the Belka-type cartridge system—into their systems.
;
:Nanoha's intelligent device. She refers to Nanoha as "master" and speaks only in English. Her magical colour is magenta. She has three "modes": Device Mode (initial appearance), Shooting Mode (for casting ''Divine Buster''), and Sealing Mode.
:As an intelligent device, she provides assistance and advice in the processing of magical attacks and fire control. Her special attack is Starlight Breaker and the auto-guard is ''Protection''.
:The bonus information card that accompanied the anime DVDs reads "Raising Heart".
:''Voice:'' Donna Burke
;: In ''A's'', after being badly damaged in the first engagement against Vita and Graf Eisen, Raising Heart insisted on being retrofitted with the Belka-type cartridge system. She is capable of a fuller range of attacks with cartridges (loaded in magazines akin to those used in modern automatic weapons), and was officially renamed (though Nanoha still only addresses her as Raising Heart). Her three forms are called Accel Mode, Buster Mode, and Excelion Mode. In StrikerS, Exceed Mode replaces Excelion Mode while Nanoha's limiters are in place.
:In the manga, Nanoha comments that Raising Heart is "so finely tuned in her functions that the [TSAB] maintenance staff has a hard time with her."
;
:Fate's intelligent device. He refers to Fate as "sir" despite her gender, and also only speaks English. His magical colour is yellow. Like Raising Heart, he has three "forms": Device Form, Scythe Form, and Sealing Form.
:''Voice:'' Kevin J. England
;: In A's, after being badly damaged in the first fight with Lævatein, Bardiche also is retrofitted at his request with a revolver-style cartridge system and like Raising Heart, was officially renamed (like Nanoha with Raising Heart, Fate just calls him Bardiche). His three forms are called Assault Form, Haken Form, and Zanber Form.
;
: Subaru's Intelligent device which takes the form of a pair of rollerblades. She autocasts some of Subaru's spell such as "Wing Road" and "Assault Grip" during combat and claims she was made to make her stronger and faster, to which Subaru disagrees due to her view that Mach Caliber, as an intelligent device with her own will, has a soul and was born, not made. Mach Caliber's design was based off of Subaru's own magic rollerskates, which she was had made during her days as a cadet due to her fighting style being completely different from her peers. Mach Caliber is also in synch with Revolver Knuckle, Subaru's Armed Device, allowing it be stored in Mach Caliber when both are inactive as well as some deal of interaction between the two devices. During episode 19 of StrikerS, it was reinforced to be able to keep up with Subaru's cyborg capacities.
:''Voice:'' Kaoru Edo
;
: Teana's Intelligent Device. A completely non-standard device, he was a remodelling of Teana's old "Anchor Gun" pseudo-Storage device. He's armed with a cartridge system and resembles a pair of handguns, though he can also be reduced to just one handgun in his "One-Hand Mode". While he more closely resembles a hybrid of Armed and Storage devices, he is classified as an Intelligent device due to his sophisticated AI, which helped Teana form her magical bullets during his maiden battle, a task she normally has difficulty doing in her more complex spells. While Teana was thankful for this help, she notes that it could prove weakening for her if she continues to rely on it. It has a second form dubbed "Dagger Mode" which, as the name the name suggests, transforms it into a close range weapon by generating blades of magical energy.
:''Voice:'' Jamie Schyy
Despite infrequent appearances, 'Storage Devices' are actually much more commonly used among mages than intelligent devices - the general type is also used by Bureau regular enforcement officers. These lack the AI of intelligent devices, and have a single form, besides the non-battle shape taken in civilian form (like Raising Heart turning into a jewel; S2U, specifically, becomes a playing card). On the other hand, they supposedly process magic faster and the mage can't become overly dependent on the AI.
;S2U
:Chrono's storage device. S2U is named for "Song To You" from the Lyrical Toy Box version of ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha''.
;Durandal: A new storage device that is optimized for freezing an opponent. He refers to Chrono as "Boss". Given to Chrono by Gil Graham for the final battle in A's, the Durandal is extremely powerful.
:''Voice:'' Thomas King
;Anchor Gun
:Teana's old device. It is considered a Storage device, but is loaded with a cartridge system. Teana made it during her cadet days because of her interest in using a cartidge system, which resulted in her being given Subaru as as a partner due to their magic styles being different from the other cadets. As a gun-like device, it is optimized for shooting and bombardment spells. True to its name, it also has a grapling "anchor" at the bottom of its barrel.
;: Vita's armed device, also called the "". It appears to have no programmed gender, and speaks only German. Its general purpose form is a two-sided hammer that distantly resembles a polo mallet and handles up to 4 circular bombs (Schwalbe Fliegen), or create a massive sonic shockwave (Eisengeheul) as a distraction. Expending cartridges, it can also transform into a rocket-powered hammer with a sharpened tip, or change its own size.
:''Voice'': Tetsuya Kakihara.
;: Signum's armed device, also called the ". It appears to have a personality but no programmed gender, and speaks only German. The name may be a reference to Lævateinn, of Norse mythology. Its regular form is a sword. Expending cartridges, it can transform into a chain-whip or a bow.
:''Voice'': Tetsuya Kakihara.
;: Shamal's armed device, translated as "Clear Wind". These four rings are never used for combat, but can create portals, find Linker Cores and heal allies.
:''Voice'': Alexandra Haefelin.
;: Hayate's device, also called the "", is categorized as an armed device in the merchandise. In the ''A's'' manga epilogue, Amy Limietta refers to it as "version 8"[2]. It has been revealed in an interview[3] and in the DVD accompaniment materials that this is in fact Hayate's staff device used in ''A's'' episode 12.
;: Subaru's armed device, in synch with her intelligent device "Mach Caliber". Subaru's sister Ginga also has a Revolver Knuckle, but it fits a left hand while Subaru's fits a right hand. Apparently, Ginga's Revolver Knuckle is more suited to attack[4], and this opened a debate in the fandom regarding whatever or not Subaru's own Revolver Knuckle is more tuned for defensive purposes.
;: Erio's device. When inactive, it takes the form of his wristwatch. When active, it takes the form of a spear, and has much of the same function as one. Its second mode, dubbed Düsenform, is very similar to the original one, but with a greater number of rocket thrusters. This form grants Erio limited aerial combat capabilities, although is extremely complex to handle. It's third form, seems to be tuned to optimize eletric-based spells.
:''Voice'': Tetsuya Kakihara
The is the most sophisticated design of device in the Belka magic system that takes the Intelligent Device idea to the extreme. The device is given a body and free will, and the power to "unite" with its user (this act of uniting called ''Unison Mode''), thereby granting extensive control and management of his or her abilities and power. However, due to the incompatibility with many practitioners, and incidents where the device took control of its user, Unison Devices never became a viable product.
;: Reinforce is a Unison Device, and the master program of the Book of Darkness. When the book was completed in episode 10, she merged with Hayate but largely was in control until Hayate reiterated her position as the device's master. Hayate, when she separated the viral defensive program from the rest of the Book and turns the spirit into a more normal-looking version of her familiar form, gives her the name Reinforce and takes her on as a partner. Reinforce's special attack is Ragnarok Breaker.
:''Voice:'' Sanae Kobayashi
;: Reinforce II (simply called Rein by Hayate) is Hayate's unison device in the ''A's'' epilogue and ''StrikerS'' series. She is also known as a "", meaning that she helps Hayate organize and control her magic abilities. This function may be comparable to the AI programmed into the intelligent devices Raising Heart and Bardiche, but Reinforce II also has the heart and will characteristic of the Wolkenritter, and can manifest a hologram of herself as a smaller version of the original Reinforce. Reinforce II carries a blue book called the "", which is apparently a storage medium for magic spells.
:''Voice:'' Yukana
; : A masterless Unison Device expert in fire-based elemental magic, has been traveling along with Lutecia and Zest ever since they rescued her from an laboratory where illegal researches were being performed. Sees Reinforce Zwei as a rival for the sole fact that she has a "Meister", while Agito has not.
Introduced in StrikerS, a is a special device that specializes in a specific kind of Increase Magic called "Boost Up", which enchants another device with a power boost in a particular area (e.g. ''Boost Up - Barret Power''). They are also used in the newly introduced .
;: Kerykeion is Caro's glove like Boost Device. It takes the form of a pair of bracelets when it is inactive. It shares its name with the original Greek name for a Caduceus.
:''Voice'': Kaoru Edo
;'Asclepius': Lutecia's Boost Device, is nearly identical to ''Kerykeion'', but with purple jewels instead of pink ones. Named after the symbol of the greek demigod of medicine: Rod of Asclepius
A 'familiar' in the ''Nanoha'' universe is a magical creature that is created by a mage, based on an animal form. The process of creation is not known in detail, but in Arf's case, Fate created her when her former self was on the brink of death[5]. A familiar may be granted a specific purpose upon creation, and will vanish or expire once this purpose is fulfilled.
Familiars are, generally, fiercely loyal to their masters (to the point of breaking the law), but may have the liberty to question the motives of their masters5. Familiars apparently retain some instincts of their "past lives": for example, Arf is voraciously carnivorous[6]. Familiars also have the ability to transform into their animal form, and in their humanoid state will have the ears and tail of the animal they are based on. The familiar can, however, hide these features if necessary[7].
Familiars are also linked to their masters empathically and are dependent on the magical power of their masters. The more lifelike and complex the familiar, the greater the necessary power upkeep. It follows, then, that a familiar will perish should his or her master die. The light novels reveal that the master may choose to sever the empathic link.
The use of familiars may be a feature of the Mid-Childa magic system. In episode 05 of ''A's'', Zafira insists that he is a "'guardian beast'" (although Arf retorts that there's no difference), but later he refers to his rival as a "fellow beast of protection"[8]. Alternatively, the difference may simply be that of nomenclature, just as Belka system practitioners are called "knights" as opposed to Mid-Childa "mages", despite the fact that both are users of magic.
''Known familiars[9]:'' Arf, Liese Lotte, Liese Aria, Rinis.
The word denotes a practitioner of the Belka magic system, especially those who have mastered the style and techniques of the system. The Wolkenritter (Signum, Vita, Shamal, and Zafira) are all considered Belka knights.
In the ''A's'' epilogue, Hayate Yagami is called a "", although it is unknown whether she has mastered both Mid-Childa and Belka systems.
A 'linker core' is the internal source of magical power for a magic user in the ''Nanoha'' universe.
Linker cores are frequently mentioned in ''A's'', particularly because of the Book of Darkness. In order to complete the pages of the book, it must absorb magical power from a linker core. However, it can only drain a particular core once, and the Wolkenritter must then find another target[10]. Some extraterrestrial or extradimensional creatures apparently have linker cores or some other similar magic source, as they are also targets of the Wolkenritter.
The term 'lost logia' refers to artifacts or technologies from a highly-advanced civilization that collapsed in the ''Nanoha'' universe past. Many of the lost logia are unstable or dangerous, and the Time-Space Administration Bureau (TSAB) is charged with their recovery and supervision. Other than the Jewel Seeds, one other lost logia is used in the Garden of Time: a red jewel in a reactor that powered the drone guards.
;Jewel Seed: One of twenty-one crystalline artifacts, each with its own serial number. Allegedly, these had the power to grant wishes, although in the series they are highly unstable and prone to cause violent disturbances in the host it fuses with and in its environment.
:The Scrya clan originally discovered the Jewel Seeds, and Yūno Scrya was in charge of their excavation and transport. However, during an accident in the transport process, the Jewel Seeds were scattered in Uminari City and the surrounding area.
:At the end of the first season, nine Jewel Seeds were thought to have perished with Precia Testarossa when she triggered their powers and destroyed the Garden of Time; the TSAB later retrieved the other twelve. However, in the third season, it was revealed that some Jewel Seeds are in the possession of Jail Scaglietti; which set, and how he obtained them, is unknown.
:In StrikerS, Jail Scaglietti's gadget drones are powered by Jewel Seeds, or at least tiny fragments of them as seen in episode 6.
;The Book of Darkness (''Buch der Dunkelheit''): The "", also known as the "", is an ancient artifact that had been under TSAB investigation several years prior to the events of ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's''.
:The Book of Darkness may be more accurately described as a collection of artifacts and technologies. In addition to the Book itself, which is a storehouse for stolen knowledge and spells, it includes the Schwertkreuz device, the Wolkenritter guardian knights and their devices, and the master program/Unison Device that Hayate later names Reinforce.
:After the book was destroyed, Hayate eventually made a new Tome of the Night Sky, using it as a storage medium for her spells.
;Relic: A relic is a red jewel with immeasurable power, similar to Jewel Seeds in having a serial number. Relics are normally associated with disaster and Jail Scaglietti intends to use them for his own plans. Relics are the main focus of ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS's plot.
:Hayate's Mobile Division 6 is, as of the current events of StrikerS, monitoring and containing all relics being smuggled into Mid-Childa as to keep them out of the wrong hands.
:Lutecia and Zest are identified as and are searching for relics with specific serial numbers (Lutecia, herself, is looking for Relic No. 11). They are working with Jail Scaglietti in an agreement where they will find relics for him and if the relics they find aren't the ones they want, they'll give them to Scaglietti.
:Relics are normally contained in boxes marked with the relic's serial number.
The word is used to refer to a practitioner of the Mid-Childa magic system in the ''Nanoha'' universe, although the less formal is used synonymously. The phrase is mentioned sparingly in the series itself (despite being a part of the titles), usually in Nanoha's monologues.
Nanoha has been called a "" and Yūno a "", but apparently there is no formal classification according to a mage's specialties. A mage is ranked, however, according to the skill and magic power.
;Mage ranking:One of 11 "letter grades": in increasing order, F, E, D, C, B, A, AA, AAA, S, SS, SSS. Like similar grading systems, the grade may have a plus or minus. Typically, the TSAB armed forces are ranked A, and officers are ranked AA to S.
The ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Visual Fanbook'', a ''Nanoha'' universe guide book, provided the first system of 'classification' for the various spells seen in the anime series. Apparently other categories have appeared in the manga series, describing each spell in detail as they are thrown. A comprehensive listing of spells can be found here.
;Area-of-effect type: This type categorizes all attacks that affect targets within a general area.
;Bombardment type: This type denotes any attack that fires a cone or stream of energy. This includes "'collection type[11]'" spells such as ''Starlight Breaker''.
;Magic-enhanced attack type: As the Belka system prefers melee attack over other magic types, spells of this type enhance the attack power of the device, or expand its attack capabilities.
;Melee type: This type affects attacks that directly use the device as a weapon. Melee type spells include "'energy blade type'" (described in the fanbook) spells such as ''Scythe Slash''.
;Shooting type: Spells of this type are guided (like ''Divine Shooter'') or aimed (like ''Photon Lancer'') at targets.
'Capture spells' inhibit or attempt to inhibit a target's freedom of movement and the use of action triggers.
;Bind type: Bind type spells directly inhibit the movement of the target by specifically attaching themselves to the target. Bind type spells may prevent movement outright, as in ''Restrict Lock'', or contain the target's mobility, as in ''Chain Bind''.
;Cage type: Cage type spells surround the target in an immobile prison.
There are fewer 'ceremonial spells' seen in the series than any other spell type, and are thought to be the most complex. Considerable time or magical power is needed to cast such spells, and they may have long arias as passphrases. Examples include ''Thunder Fall'', and the first Reinforce's final spell.
'Defensive spells' are specifically designed to protect the caster from attack magic or melee attack.
;Barrier type: These spells erect defensive barriers such as ''Protection''. Generally they can defend a wide range of directions, but are relatively easy to break. They work by absorbing the power of an attack in order to reduce damage.
;Field type: Not to be confused with force field spells below, field type spells directly affect an area around the user to nullify a specific energy type, thermal or electrical for example.
;Shield type: This type describes spells that generate powerful shields. In contrast to barrier type spells, shield type spells can only guard in one direction, but are much more difficult to penetrate. Also unlike an barrier type defense, these spells defend by repelling the energy driven against them.
In contrast to defensive spells, 'force field spells' apparently have more varied roles, from protecting property and civilians from collateral damage, to confining enemy magic users to a predetermined area.
;Circle type: These force fields originate from a magic circle, which can be placed by the caster at any location. An example is Yūno's ''Round Guarder Extend''.
;Area type: Area type force fields affect a large region, and generally are much more powerful than circle type fields. The imprisoning field used by the TSAB Armed Forces in ''A's'' episodes 04 and 05[12] is one such type of field.
As of 2006, these are the three known 'support spell' categories. There are also a large number of uncategorized support spells, ranging from telepathy, shapeshifting, and sealing.
;Increase type: Directly heals or replenishes the target.
;Decline type: Presumably, spells of this type lower the target's defenses. However, the known spells of this type directly target other magic spells and attempt to deactivate them. An example is ''Bind Break''.
;Transport type11: Spells of this type include movement enhancement spells such as ''Flier Fin'', as well as teleport spells.
The 'magic system' refers to the style and methodology of a practitioner's abilities and devices. Two systems are recognized in the series: the Mid-Childa system, and the Belka system.
The Mid-Childa system is the prevalent form of magic in the ''Nanoha'' universe until the reappearance of the Wolkenritter in ''A's''. Although much is known about the classification of its practitioners' spells, there is little information about its background or history.
The Belka system is an offshoot of the Mid-Childa system, and its practitioners often eschew ranged attacks for anti-personnel melee combat tactics. One of the defining features of the Belka system is the Armed Device, which incorporates a cartridge system to dramatically boost the magical power of its user[13].
Chrono, in a conversation with Yūno, states that 891 ''classes'' of magic have been documented by the TSAB. Whether this refers to separate systems of magic, such as Mid-Childa and Belka, or some other way of categorizing types of magic is not specifically explained.[14]
A 'trigger', as the name implies, is something that initiates or triggers a magic spell. Four types of triggers are recognized in ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Visual Fan Book''.
;:A long incantation, required for complex or powerful techniques. Arias often include a mage's personal incantation, such as Nanoha's "Lyrical! Magical!"
;Command phrase:A short command to the device. For example, Fate's command phrase for her shooting skills is "Fire!". In cases where a mage does not need an incantation to activate a skill, the device may bark the command in his or her stead.
;Action trigger:A motion, usually a distinctive swing of the device. Action triggers usually accompany command phrases.
;Device activation:The activation sequence for an Intelligent Device. Depending on the skill or talent of the user, this may require a complex passphrase.
;Garden of Time: This refers to a small asteroid-like structure, that is the residence of Precia and Fate Testarossa during the time of the first season. It is well-hidden from the TSAB, as they could only locate the small hideout by tracing Precia's transport spell.
;Mid-Childa: This is the home world of the Harlaown family and the Scrya clan, and is home to a technologically advanced society. The capital is called [15].
;: This is the home town of the Takamachi, Bannings, Tsukimura, Yagami, and (later) Harlaown households.
The , elsewhere abbreviated as 'TSAB' or , is an interdimensional security force[16] formed by a joint union of several worlds, including Mid-Childa. They also monitor cultural growth and provide disaster relief to each world[17].
;: Presumably the highest rank in the Bureau. Admirals are given administrative roles, including ship command. Although the advisor and commissioner Gil Graham, ship commander Lindy Harlaown (and later Chrono Harlaown), and Bureau HQ staff officer Leti Rolan are all referred to as Admiral, it is unclear, as of 2006, whether there is a further hierarchy among those of this rank.
:''Known members:'' Lindy Harlaown, Gil Graham (''A's''; retired in epilogue), Leti Lowran, Chrono Harlaown (''A's'' epilogue, ''StrikerS'' manga).
;: Commissioned officers in the TSAB are the lead investigators in incidents under Bureau jurisdiction, akin to detectives in modern police hierarchies.
:''Known members:'' Chrono Harlaown, Fate T. Harlaown (''A's'' epilogue, ''StrikerS'' manga).
;: Similar to military and police special forces instructors, tactical instructors in the TSAB provide additional training to the Bureau's armed forces in combat strategy and techniques. They are considered among the best of all the mages in the Bureau. They regularly test new spells, new tactics, and act as OPFOR in exercises.
:''Known members:'' Nanoha Takamachi (''A's'' epilogue, ''StrikerS'' manga).
;: This is Hayate Yagami's title in the ''A's'' epilogue and ''StrikerS'' manga.
;: Contract mages are "hired" by the TSAB, however, the Bureau requires an intensive examination before contract mages are approved to work in Bureau matters. Fate Testarossa, after the Jewel Seed incident, underwent this examination primarily to be able to meet Nanoha sooner.
:''Known members:'' Fate Testarossa (''A's'').
;TSAB : The armed forces are both the main line of defense for the Bureau, as well as its corps of peace officers, although they bear some similarity to American police SWAT teams.
;: The most powerful weapon of the TSAB investigative vessel ''Arthra'' (and as of 2006, the only known weapon of the ''Arthra''). Called a "", it destroys a region with a radius of over 100 kilometers around the target point by distorting the time-space of that region. Because of its great destructive potential, it can only be fired with the ship commander's key. In this way, it serves a deus ex machina function common to leader ships in science fiction series, such as the Chrono Break Cannon on the ''Elsior'' in Galaxy Angel.
★ The Mid-Childa magic circle contains the Greek letters pi, delta, omega, and nu, in clockwise order.
★ "Arc-en-ciel" comes from French "l'arc en ciel", which literally means "arc in the sky", or more commonly, "rainbow".
1. Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Visual Fanbook, , , , Shinyusha, ,
2. In ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's Sound Stage 03'', Hayate mentions that she has trouble finding a device that she can handle without breaking.
3. ''Megami Magazine'', June 2006 issue.
4. Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS - Episode 15
5. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Sound Stage 02''.
6. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's Sound Stage 03''.
7. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha'' episode 05.
8. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' episode 07.
9. Although he is thought to be Nanoha's familiar at times, Yūno Scrya, despite his frequent appearances as a ferret, is a mage with a talent in transformation.
10. Vita, ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' episode 07.
11. Presumably, this category is indicated in the manga.
12. Shamal says that the field can only be broken by Vita's ''Gigantform'' or Signum's ''Sturm Falken'', but Signum manages to break through with her ''Schwertform''.
13. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' episode 03
14. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' manga chapter 7.
15. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS'' manga chapter 01.
16. "It's a sort of combined judiciary and police force that governs the dimensional worlds." Nanoha, ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's Sound Stage 02''.
17. Fate, ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's Sound Stage 02''.
Magic
'Magic' is defined in ''Nanoha'' as the technological system, typically the Mid-Childa system, used to control magical power. Magical "spells" are stored as programs until they are activated through a trigger by a practitioner.[1]
Device
A 'device' in the ''Nanoha'' universe denotes a staff, rod, or other implement employed by a mage. It has been shown in the series, however, that a mage need not use a device to use magic; examples include Yūno Scrya and Lindy Harlaown. In their inactive states, devices have varied forms, from marble-like crystal spheres to cards. When activated, the device may transform its structure depending on the type of magic that the mage intends to cast. As magic "spells" are defined as "programs" in this series, the device can act similarly to electronic storage media, recording and recalling the spells that the mage has cast. Devices are primarily used as weapons in the ''Nanoha'' series, whether through the use of combat magic or through swinging the devices themselves.
Devices generally have the ability to speak, although their coherence and verbosity depends on the type of device. For example, an Armed or Storage Device will generally speak in very short phrases, whereas Intelligent or Unison Devices are capable of constructing more complex sentences. The language spoken by a device depends on its system—Mid-Childa Devices speak English, while the known Belka Armed Devices speak German (however, the advanced Reinforce has shown proficiency in Japanese, perhaps due to her nature as a Unison Device). In the series, the mage is always shown to understand what his or her device is saying. It can also be noted that devices tend to refer to their mages with male titles even if the mage in question is female (Master, Sir, Meister). Ironically, the already male Chrono is referred to by the gender-neutral "Boss".
Devices have an auto-repair mode when inactive, and will automatically deactivate if the damage inflicted is significant. Particularly severe damage can warrant both the auto-repair mode and reactivation to replace components within the device.
Five types of devices are recognized in the series as of 2007: Intelligent Devices, Storage Devices, Armed Devices, Unison Devices and Boost Devices. Intelligent, Storage and Boost devices are used in the Mid-Childa magic system, while Armed and Unison devices are used in the Ancient Belka system. The Modern Belka system uses Intelligent and Armed devices.
;Auto guard:The magic spell that automatically activates if the mage is under attack but cannot respond due to surprise or injury.
;Cartridge system: Cartridges are capsules (shaped like blank rifle rounds) containing compressed magical energy. When used in a device, it releases that energy all at once, providing a significant boost in power. Intelligent Devices are not usually able to handle cartridge systems, due to the potential instability, and the strain on the user.
;Full drive:The most powerful form of an Intelligent Device.
Intelligent Devices
'Intelligent Devices', as the name implies, incorporate sophisticated artificial intelligence in their programming, enabling them to have some degree of autonomy.
If an Intelligent Device does not "agree" that a maintenance operation is complete, it can persistently manifest its "displeasure" with an error code. Both Raising Heart and Bardiche, after severe damage from the Wolkenritter's Armed Devices, raise code E203 and request the TSAB to install a CVK-792-compatible system—more precisely, the Belka-type cartridge system—into their systems.
;
:Nanoha's intelligent device. She refers to Nanoha as "master" and speaks only in English. Her magical colour is magenta. She has three "modes": Device Mode (initial appearance), Shooting Mode (for casting ''Divine Buster''), and Sealing Mode.
:As an intelligent device, she provides assistance and advice in the processing of magical attacks and fire control. Her special attack is Starlight Breaker and the auto-guard is ''Protection''.
:The bonus information card that accompanied the anime DVDs reads "Raising Heart".
:''Voice:'' Donna Burke
;: In ''A's'', after being badly damaged in the first engagement against Vita and Graf Eisen, Raising Heart insisted on being retrofitted with the Belka-type cartridge system. She is capable of a fuller range of attacks with cartridges (loaded in magazines akin to those used in modern automatic weapons), and was officially renamed (though Nanoha still only addresses her as Raising Heart). Her three forms are called Accel Mode, Buster Mode, and Excelion Mode. In StrikerS, Exceed Mode replaces Excelion Mode while Nanoha's limiters are in place.
:In the manga, Nanoha comments that Raising Heart is "so finely tuned in her functions that the [TSAB] maintenance staff has a hard time with her."
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:Fate's intelligent device. He refers to Fate as "sir" despite her gender, and also only speaks English. His magical colour is yellow. Like Raising Heart, he has three "forms": Device Form, Scythe Form, and Sealing Form.
:''Voice:'' Kevin J. England
;: In A's, after being badly damaged in the first fight with Lævatein, Bardiche also is retrofitted at his request with a revolver-style cartridge system and like Raising Heart, was officially renamed (like Nanoha with Raising Heart, Fate just calls him Bardiche). His three forms are called Assault Form, Haken Form, and Zanber Form.
;
: Subaru's Intelligent device which takes the form of a pair of rollerblades. She autocasts some of Subaru's spell such as "Wing Road" and "Assault Grip" during combat and claims she was made to make her stronger and faster, to which Subaru disagrees due to her view that Mach Caliber, as an intelligent device with her own will, has a soul and was born, not made. Mach Caliber's design was based off of Subaru's own magic rollerskates, which she was had made during her days as a cadet due to her fighting style being completely different from her peers. Mach Caliber is also in synch with Revolver Knuckle, Subaru's Armed Device, allowing it be stored in Mach Caliber when both are inactive as well as some deal of interaction between the two devices. During episode 19 of StrikerS, it was reinforced to be able to keep up with Subaru's cyborg capacities.
:''Voice:'' Kaoru Edo
;
: Teana's Intelligent Device. A completely non-standard device, he was a remodelling of Teana's old "Anchor Gun" pseudo-Storage device. He's armed with a cartridge system and resembles a pair of handguns, though he can also be reduced to just one handgun in his "One-Hand Mode". While he more closely resembles a hybrid of Armed and Storage devices, he is classified as an Intelligent device due to his sophisticated AI, which helped Teana form her magical bullets during his maiden battle, a task she normally has difficulty doing in her more complex spells. While Teana was thankful for this help, she notes that it could prove weakening for her if she continues to rely on it. It has a second form dubbed "Dagger Mode" which, as the name the name suggests, transforms it into a close range weapon by generating blades of magical energy.
:''Voice:'' Jamie Schyy
Storage Devices
Despite infrequent appearances, 'Storage Devices' are actually much more commonly used among mages than intelligent devices - the general type is also used by Bureau regular enforcement officers. These lack the AI of intelligent devices, and have a single form, besides the non-battle shape taken in civilian form (like Raising Heart turning into a jewel; S2U, specifically, becomes a playing card). On the other hand, they supposedly process magic faster and the mage can't become overly dependent on the AI.
;S2U
:Chrono's storage device. S2U is named for "Song To You" from the Lyrical Toy Box version of ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha''.
;Durandal: A new storage device that is optimized for freezing an opponent. He refers to Chrono as "Boss". Given to Chrono by Gil Graham for the final battle in A's, the Durandal is extremely powerful.
:''Voice:'' Thomas King
;Anchor Gun
:Teana's old device. It is considered a Storage device, but is loaded with a cartridge system. Teana made it during her cadet days because of her interest in using a cartidge system, which resulted in her being given Subaru as as a partner due to their magic styles being different from the other cadets. As a gun-like device, it is optimized for shooting and bombardment spells. True to its name, it also has a grapling "anchor" at the bottom of its barrel.
Armed Devices
;: Vita's armed device, also called the "". It appears to have no programmed gender, and speaks only German. Its general purpose form is a two-sided hammer that distantly resembles a polo mallet and handles up to 4 circular bombs (Schwalbe Fliegen), or create a massive sonic shockwave (Eisengeheul) as a distraction. Expending cartridges, it can also transform into a rocket-powered hammer with a sharpened tip, or change its own size.
:''Voice'': Tetsuya Kakihara.
;: Signum's armed device, also called the ". It appears to have a personality but no programmed gender, and speaks only German. The name may be a reference to Lævateinn, of Norse mythology. Its regular form is a sword. Expending cartridges, it can transform into a chain-whip or a bow.
:''Voice'': Tetsuya Kakihara.
;: Shamal's armed device, translated as "Clear Wind". These four rings are never used for combat, but can create portals, find Linker Cores and heal allies.
:''Voice'': Alexandra Haefelin.
;: Hayate's device, also called the "", is categorized as an armed device in the merchandise. In the ''A's'' manga epilogue, Amy Limietta refers to it as "version 8"[2]. It has been revealed in an interview[3] and in the DVD accompaniment materials that this is in fact Hayate's staff device used in ''A's'' episode 12.
;: Subaru's armed device, in synch with her intelligent device "Mach Caliber". Subaru's sister Ginga also has a Revolver Knuckle, but it fits a left hand while Subaru's fits a right hand. Apparently, Ginga's Revolver Knuckle is more suited to attack[4], and this opened a debate in the fandom regarding whatever or not Subaru's own Revolver Knuckle is more tuned for defensive purposes.
;: Erio's device. When inactive, it takes the form of his wristwatch. When active, it takes the form of a spear, and has much of the same function as one. Its second mode, dubbed Düsenform, is very similar to the original one, but with a greater number of rocket thrusters. This form grants Erio limited aerial combat capabilities, although is extremely complex to handle. It's third form, seems to be tuned to optimize eletric-based spells.
:''Voice'': Tetsuya Kakihara
Unison Devices
The is the most sophisticated design of device in the Belka magic system that takes the Intelligent Device idea to the extreme. The device is given a body and free will, and the power to "unite" with its user (this act of uniting called ''Unison Mode''), thereby granting extensive control and management of his or her abilities and power. However, due to the incompatibility with many practitioners, and incidents where the device took control of its user, Unison Devices never became a viable product.
;: Reinforce is a Unison Device, and the master program of the Book of Darkness. When the book was completed in episode 10, she merged with Hayate but largely was in control until Hayate reiterated her position as the device's master. Hayate, when she separated the viral defensive program from the rest of the Book and turns the spirit into a more normal-looking version of her familiar form, gives her the name Reinforce and takes her on as a partner. Reinforce's special attack is Ragnarok Breaker.
:''Voice:'' Sanae Kobayashi
;: Reinforce II (simply called Rein by Hayate) is Hayate's unison device in the ''A's'' epilogue and ''StrikerS'' series. She is also known as a "", meaning that she helps Hayate organize and control her magic abilities. This function may be comparable to the AI programmed into the intelligent devices Raising Heart and Bardiche, but Reinforce II also has the heart and will characteristic of the Wolkenritter, and can manifest a hologram of herself as a smaller version of the original Reinforce. Reinforce II carries a blue book called the "", which is apparently a storage medium for magic spells.
:''Voice:'' Yukana
; : A masterless Unison Device expert in fire-based elemental magic, has been traveling along with Lutecia and Zest ever since they rescued her from an laboratory where illegal researches were being performed. Sees Reinforce Zwei as a rival for the sole fact that she has a "Meister", while Agito has not.
Boost Devices
Introduced in StrikerS, a is a special device that specializes in a specific kind of Increase Magic called "Boost Up", which enchants another device with a power boost in a particular area (e.g. ''Boost Up - Barret Power''). They are also used in the newly introduced .
;: Kerykeion is Caro's glove like Boost Device. It takes the form of a pair of bracelets when it is inactive. It shares its name with the original Greek name for a Caduceus.
:''Voice'': Kaoru Edo
;'Asclepius': Lutecia's Boost Device, is nearly identical to ''Kerykeion'', but with purple jewels instead of pink ones. Named after the symbol of the greek demigod of medicine: Rod of Asclepius
Familiars
A 'familiar' in the ''Nanoha'' universe is a magical creature that is created by a mage, based on an animal form. The process of creation is not known in detail, but in Arf's case, Fate created her when her former self was on the brink of death[5]. A familiar may be granted a specific purpose upon creation, and will vanish or expire once this purpose is fulfilled.
Familiars are, generally, fiercely loyal to their masters (to the point of breaking the law), but may have the liberty to question the motives of their masters5. Familiars apparently retain some instincts of their "past lives": for example, Arf is voraciously carnivorous[6]. Familiars also have the ability to transform into their animal form, and in their humanoid state will have the ears and tail of the animal they are based on. The familiar can, however, hide these features if necessary[7].
Familiars are also linked to their masters empathically and are dependent on the magical power of their masters. The more lifelike and complex the familiar, the greater the necessary power upkeep. It follows, then, that a familiar will perish should his or her master die. The light novels reveal that the master may choose to sever the empathic link.
The use of familiars may be a feature of the Mid-Childa magic system. In episode 05 of ''A's'', Zafira insists that he is a "'guardian beast'" (although Arf retorts that there's no difference), but later he refers to his rival as a "fellow beast of protection"[8]. Alternatively, the difference may simply be that of nomenclature, just as Belka system practitioners are called "knights" as opposed to Mid-Childa "mages", despite the fact that both are users of magic.
''Known familiars[9]:'' Arf, Liese Lotte, Liese Aria, Rinis.
Knight
The word denotes a practitioner of the Belka magic system, especially those who have mastered the style and techniques of the system. The Wolkenritter (Signum, Vita, Shamal, and Zafira) are all considered Belka knights.
In the ''A's'' epilogue, Hayate Yagami is called a "", although it is unknown whether she has mastered both Mid-Childa and Belka systems.
Linker Core
A 'linker core' is the internal source of magical power for a magic user in the ''Nanoha'' universe.
Linker cores are frequently mentioned in ''A's'', particularly because of the Book of Darkness. In order to complete the pages of the book, it must absorb magical power from a linker core. However, it can only drain a particular core once, and the Wolkenritter must then find another target[10]. Some extraterrestrial or extradimensional creatures apparently have linker cores or some other similar magic source, as they are also targets of the Wolkenritter.
Lost Logia
The term 'lost logia' refers to artifacts or technologies from a highly-advanced civilization that collapsed in the ''Nanoha'' universe past. Many of the lost logia are unstable or dangerous, and the Time-Space Administration Bureau (TSAB) is charged with their recovery and supervision. Other than the Jewel Seeds, one other lost logia is used in the Garden of Time: a red jewel in a reactor that powered the drone guards.
;Jewel Seed: One of twenty-one crystalline artifacts, each with its own serial number. Allegedly, these had the power to grant wishes, although in the series they are highly unstable and prone to cause violent disturbances in the host it fuses with and in its environment.
:The Scrya clan originally discovered the Jewel Seeds, and Yūno Scrya was in charge of their excavation and transport. However, during an accident in the transport process, the Jewel Seeds were scattered in Uminari City and the surrounding area.
:At the end of the first season, nine Jewel Seeds were thought to have perished with Precia Testarossa when she triggered their powers and destroyed the Garden of Time; the TSAB later retrieved the other twelve. However, in the third season, it was revealed that some Jewel Seeds are in the possession of Jail Scaglietti; which set, and how he obtained them, is unknown.
:In StrikerS, Jail Scaglietti's gadget drones are powered by Jewel Seeds, or at least tiny fragments of them as seen in episode 6.
;The Book of Darkness (''Buch der Dunkelheit''): The "", also known as the "", is an ancient artifact that had been under TSAB investigation several years prior to the events of ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's''.
:The Book of Darkness may be more accurately described as a collection of artifacts and technologies. In addition to the Book itself, which is a storehouse for stolen knowledge and spells, it includes the Schwertkreuz device, the Wolkenritter guardian knights and their devices, and the master program/Unison Device that Hayate later names Reinforce.
:After the book was destroyed, Hayate eventually made a new Tome of the Night Sky, using it as a storage medium for her spells.
;Relic: A relic is a red jewel with immeasurable power, similar to Jewel Seeds in having a serial number. Relics are normally associated with disaster and Jail Scaglietti intends to use them for his own plans. Relics are the main focus of ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS's plot.
:Hayate's Mobile Division 6 is, as of the current events of StrikerS, monitoring and containing all relics being smuggled into Mid-Childa as to keep them out of the wrong hands.
:Lutecia and Zest are identified as and are searching for relics with specific serial numbers (Lutecia, herself, is looking for Relic No. 11). They are working with Jail Scaglietti in an agreement where they will find relics for him and if the relics they find aren't the ones they want, they'll give them to Scaglietti.
:Relics are normally contained in boxes marked with the relic's serial number.
Mage
The word is used to refer to a practitioner of the Mid-Childa magic system in the ''Nanoha'' universe, although the less formal is used synonymously. The phrase is mentioned sparingly in the series itself (despite being a part of the titles), usually in Nanoha's monologues.
Nanoha has been called a "" and Yūno a "", but apparently there is no formal classification according to a mage's specialties. A mage is ranked, however, according to the skill and magic power.
;Mage ranking:One of 11 "letter grades": in increasing order, F, E, D, C, B, A, AA, AAA, S, SS, SSS. Like similar grading systems, the grade may have a plus or minus. Typically, the TSAB armed forces are ranked A, and officers are ranked AA to S.
Magic classification
The ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Visual Fanbook'', a ''Nanoha'' universe guide book, provided the first system of 'classification' for the various spells seen in the anime series. Apparently other categories have appeared in the manga series, describing each spell in detail as they are thrown. A comprehensive listing of spells can be found here.
Attack spells
;Area-of-effect type: This type categorizes all attacks that affect targets within a general area.
;Bombardment type: This type denotes any attack that fires a cone or stream of energy. This includes "'collection type[11]'" spells such as ''Starlight Breaker''.
;Magic-enhanced attack type: As the Belka system prefers melee attack over other magic types, spells of this type enhance the attack power of the device, or expand its attack capabilities.
;Melee type: This type affects attacks that directly use the device as a weapon. Melee type spells include "'energy blade type'" (described in the fanbook) spells such as ''Scythe Slash''.
;Shooting type: Spells of this type are guided (like ''Divine Shooter'') or aimed (like ''Photon Lancer'') at targets.
Capture spells
'Capture spells' inhibit or attempt to inhibit a target's freedom of movement and the use of action triggers.
;Bind type: Bind type spells directly inhibit the movement of the target by specifically attaching themselves to the target. Bind type spells may prevent movement outright, as in ''Restrict Lock'', or contain the target's mobility, as in ''Chain Bind''.
;Cage type: Cage type spells surround the target in an immobile prison.
Ceremonial spells
There are fewer 'ceremonial spells' seen in the series than any other spell type, and are thought to be the most complex. Considerable time or magical power is needed to cast such spells, and they may have long arias as passphrases. Examples include ''Thunder Fall'', and the first Reinforce's final spell.
Defensive spells
'Defensive spells' are specifically designed to protect the caster from attack magic or melee attack.
;Barrier type: These spells erect defensive barriers such as ''Protection''. Generally they can defend a wide range of directions, but are relatively easy to break. They work by absorbing the power of an attack in order to reduce damage.
;Field type: Not to be confused with force field spells below, field type spells directly affect an area around the user to nullify a specific energy type, thermal or electrical for example.
;Shield type: This type describes spells that generate powerful shields. In contrast to barrier type spells, shield type spells can only guard in one direction, but are much more difficult to penetrate. Also unlike an barrier type defense, these spells defend by repelling the energy driven against them.
Force field spells
In contrast to defensive spells, 'force field spells' apparently have more varied roles, from protecting property and civilians from collateral damage, to confining enemy magic users to a predetermined area.
;Circle type: These force fields originate from a magic circle, which can be placed by the caster at any location. An example is Yūno's ''Round Guarder Extend''.
;Area type: Area type force fields affect a large region, and generally are much more powerful than circle type fields. The imprisoning field used by the TSAB Armed Forces in ''A's'' episodes 04 and 05[12] is one such type of field.
Support spells
As of 2006, these are the three known 'support spell' categories. There are also a large number of uncategorized support spells, ranging from telepathy, shapeshifting, and sealing.
;Increase type: Directly heals or replenishes the target.
;Decline type: Presumably, spells of this type lower the target's defenses. However, the known spells of this type directly target other magic spells and attempt to deactivate them. An example is ''Bind Break''.
;Transport type11: Spells of this type include movement enhancement spells such as ''Flier Fin'', as well as teleport spells.
Magic system
The 'magic system' refers to the style and methodology of a practitioner's abilities and devices. Two systems are recognized in the series: the Mid-Childa system, and the Belka system.
The Mid-Childa system is the prevalent form of magic in the ''Nanoha'' universe until the reappearance of the Wolkenritter in ''A's''. Although much is known about the classification of its practitioners' spells, there is little information about its background or history.
The Belka system is an offshoot of the Mid-Childa system, and its practitioners often eschew ranged attacks for anti-personnel melee combat tactics. One of the defining features of the Belka system is the Armed Device, which incorporates a cartridge system to dramatically boost the magical power of its user[13].
Chrono, in a conversation with Yūno, states that 891 ''classes'' of magic have been documented by the TSAB. Whether this refers to separate systems of magic, such as Mid-Childa and Belka, or some other way of categorizing types of magic is not specifically explained.[14]
Triggers
A 'trigger', as the name implies, is something that initiates or triggers a magic spell. Four types of triggers are recognized in ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Visual Fan Book''.
;:A long incantation, required for complex or powerful techniques. Arias often include a mage's personal incantation, such as Nanoha's "Lyrical! Magical!"
;Command phrase:A short command to the device. For example, Fate's command phrase for her shooting skills is "Fire!". In cases where a mage does not need an incantation to activate a skill, the device may bark the command in his or her stead.
;Action trigger:A motion, usually a distinctive swing of the device. Action triggers usually accompany command phrases.
;Device activation:The activation sequence for an Intelligent Device. Depending on the skill or talent of the user, this may require a complex passphrase.
Places
;Garden of Time: This refers to a small asteroid-like structure, that is the residence of Precia and Fate Testarossa during the time of the first season. It is well-hidden from the TSAB, as they could only locate the small hideout by tracing Precia's transport spell.
;Mid-Childa: This is the home world of the Harlaown family and the Scrya clan, and is home to a technologically advanced society. The capital is called [15].
;: This is the home town of the Takamachi, Bannings, Tsukimura, Yagami, and (later) Harlaown households.
Time-Space Administration Bureau
The , elsewhere abbreviated as 'TSAB' or , is an interdimensional security force[16] formed by a joint union of several worlds, including Mid-Childa. They also monitor cultural growth and provide disaster relief to each world[17].
Positions and ranking
;: Presumably the highest rank in the Bureau. Admirals are given administrative roles, including ship command. Although the advisor and commissioner Gil Graham, ship commander Lindy Harlaown (and later Chrono Harlaown), and Bureau HQ staff officer Leti Rolan are all referred to as Admiral, it is unclear, as of 2006, whether there is a further hierarchy among those of this rank.
:''Known members:'' Lindy Harlaown, Gil Graham (''A's''; retired in epilogue), Leti Lowran, Chrono Harlaown (''A's'' epilogue, ''StrikerS'' manga).
;: Commissioned officers in the TSAB are the lead investigators in incidents under Bureau jurisdiction, akin to detectives in modern police hierarchies.
:''Known members:'' Chrono Harlaown, Fate T. Harlaown (''A's'' epilogue, ''StrikerS'' manga).
;: Similar to military and police special forces instructors, tactical instructors in the TSAB provide additional training to the Bureau's armed forces in combat strategy and techniques. They are considered among the best of all the mages in the Bureau. They regularly test new spells, new tactics, and act as OPFOR in exercises.
:''Known members:'' Nanoha Takamachi (''A's'' epilogue, ''StrikerS'' manga).
;: This is Hayate Yagami's title in the ''A's'' epilogue and ''StrikerS'' manga.
;: Contract mages are "hired" by the TSAB, however, the Bureau requires an intensive examination before contract mages are approved to work in Bureau matters. Fate Testarossa, after the Jewel Seed incident, underwent this examination primarily to be able to meet Nanoha sooner.
:''Known members:'' Fate Testarossa (''A's'').
;TSAB : The armed forces are both the main line of defense for the Bureau, as well as its corps of peace officers, although they bear some similarity to American police SWAT teams.
Technology
;: The most powerful weapon of the TSAB investigative vessel ''Arthra'' (and as of 2006, the only known weapon of the ''Arthra''). Called a "", it destroys a region with a radius of over 100 kilometers around the target point by distorting the time-space of that region. Because of its great destructive potential, it can only be fired with the ship commander's key. In this way, it serves a deus ex machina function common to leader ships in science fiction series, such as the Chrono Break Cannon on the ''Elsior'' in Galaxy Angel.
Trivia
★ The Mid-Childa magic circle contains the Greek letters pi, delta, omega, and nu, in clockwise order.
★ "Arc-en-ciel" comes from French "l'arc en ciel", which literally means "arc in the sky", or more commonly, "rainbow".
References
1. Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Visual Fanbook, , , , Shinyusha, ,
2. In ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's Sound Stage 03'', Hayate mentions that she has trouble finding a device that she can handle without breaking.
3. ''Megami Magazine'', June 2006 issue.
4. Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS - Episode 15
5. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha Sound Stage 02''.
6. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's Sound Stage 03''.
7. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha'' episode 05.
8. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' episode 07.
9. Although he is thought to be Nanoha's familiar at times, Yūno Scrya, despite his frequent appearances as a ferret, is a mage with a talent in transformation.
10. Vita, ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' episode 07.
11. Presumably, this category is indicated in the manga.
12. Shamal says that the field can only be broken by Vita's ''Gigantform'' or Signum's ''Sturm Falken'', but Signum manages to break through with her ''Schwertform''.
13. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' episode 03
14. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's'' manga chapter 7.
15. ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS'' manga chapter 01.
16. "It's a sort of combined judiciary and police force that governs the dimensional worlds." Nanoha, ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's Sound Stage 02''.
17. Fate, ''Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha A's Sound Stage 02''.
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