No such luck, Julian. Nanoha's life philosophy: If at first you don't succeed, you weren't using a big enough spell. "Raising Heart, Exceed," she muttered as she tried to catch her breath. "Exceed Shift: Stand by, Ready." There was a quick flash of light, and when it faded the golden spearhead was slightly longer and sleeker.

And she pointed it at him again. "I told you, didn't I? She's spoken for."

"Excelion Buster."

The light swelling at Raising Heart's tip seemed brighter, now - much harsher to the eye than it had been previously.