Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 35

 Neptune and Noire made their way into the dilapidated factory. The building was incredibly large, but it was also empty except for the monsters that were stalking around. “The inside is still in pretty good shape. These holes though are going to be a problem.” Noire said, as she looked at one of the holes located in the wall. “Even if we manage to kill all the monsters roaming around in here more will just walk back in.”

“I know it’s none of my business but-” Neptune began.

“That’s true.” Noire said, cutting her off.

Neptune grumbled under her breath and narrowed her eyes at the back of Noire’s head. “But, what does Shian want with an old factory like this? Why not just tear it down and build a new one?”

“Well… I’m guessing it’s because it would cost more money to fix this one then to build a new one.” Said Noire. “Anyways, it’s none of our business really. Client gets what client wants.”

“Boo.” Neptune said, annoyed. “So what are we going to do when we kill the monsters? Stay here until someone fixes the holes?”

Noire shook her head. “No need. All we’ll have to do is move some sheet metal over the hole or something. Stop whining and start fighting.”

“Hey I… Wait… Did you mean to rime like that?” Asked Neptune.

“Sure.” Said Noire, as she summoned her rapier. “Come on Neptune. Let’s get to work.”

Neptune sighed deeply as she summoned her katana. “Fine.” She said.

Noire and Neptune ran deeper into the factory. As they ran the girls faced down several different types of monsters. What really surprised Neptune was the fact that not all the monsters were made of flesh and blood. Some were robots.

Neptune spotted a small group of Ruffian Cat monsters and attacked them. She managed to catch two of the creatures off guard, but the other three managed to avoid her attack. “You’re not getting away!” Neptune said, as she leapt at the Ruffian Cat that was closest to her.

Neptune’s katana sliced through the creature, but before she could launch another attack, one of the Ruffian Cat monsters managed to punch her hard in the jaw. “OW!” Neptune cried out.

“Are you okay?” Noire asked. The girl was fighting a monster known as a Strange Person, who was indeed very strange. The creature looked like a human who was floating around in a strange device.

“I’m fine. This little jerk just sucker punched me.” Neptune said, as she cut the Ruffian Cat down. After that she managed to kill the third and final Ruffian Cat.

Neptune smiled proudly, but before she could celebrate several circular shaped High Bit Custom monsters attacked. They shot lasers at the girl, but Neptune managed to block their attacks using her barrier magic.

“This barrier sure comes in handy.” Said Neptune.

“Hold on.” Noire said, as she sliced the monster she was fighting in two. After that, Noire turned to the High Bit Custom monsters and managed to cut them down as well. “Were doing pretty good so far.” Noire said, noticing several more monsters were approaching them.

Neptune and Noire launched themselves at the remaining monsters. They cut down High Bit Custom monsters, more Strange Person, Ruffian Cat and DSTT monsters as well. None of the creatures that lived in the factory could handle the girls overwhelming power.

“There we go.” Noire said, tossing back one of her pigtails with her hands. “Now. Let’s find something to block those holes and…”

Neptune suddenly pushed Noire, causing the girl to fly several yards away. Noire opened her mouth to scream at Neptune, but before she could utter a word two large beams of energy struck the girl, sending her flying backwards. “NEPTUNE!” Noire cried.

Neptune slammed into a wall behind her, before falling into a heap onto the floor. Noire’s eyes were as large as saucers and her hands were shaking by her sides. “N-Neptune… Are you?” She began.

“Ouch…” Neptune muttered, as she slowly got to her feet. Neptune’s chest was smoking where the lasers had struck her. “That was smarts.” She breathed.

Noire finally turned her attention away from Neptune and saw the creature that had hurt her. “Heavy Tank.” Noire breathed.

“I’m okay.” Neptune said, as she held out her hand. “Heal!” Neptune’s body started to shine brightly for a moment before fading. “There we go. I’m going to need some pudding to fully heal though.”

“Come on Neptune. We’ve got to destroy this thing.” Noire said, holding her rapier out in front of her.

“Yeah, yeah.” Neptune said, as she aimed the tip of her katana at the Heavy Tank.

With those words, Neptune began rushing forwards. The moment Neptune started running, the Heavy Tank aimed it’s laser canons at the girl and fired. Neptune held up her right hand and created a barrier.

At first, Neptune was certain she would be able to keep moving, but once the two energy beams struck her barrier, she was forced to stop running. Noire took this opportunity to charge the Heavy Tank herself. However, when Noire had gotten closer to the tank, the giant robot turned and fired at her.

Noire leapt to the right, avoiding both laser beams by mere inches, but the Heavy Tank wasn’t finished. It halted it’s fire and turned it’s large body and continued to fire it’s lasers. “Come on!” Noire thought, as she dodged left and right and tried to get closer and closer to the Heavy Tank.

Just when Noire thought she was going to be able to launch an attack, the Heavy Tank started moving further away from her. “Oh come on!” Noire said, frustrated.

The Heavy Tank drove itself to the other side of the room and started firing it’s lasers once more.

Noire dodged to the left and then the right. “If Uni were here, she would have been able to shoot this thing.” Noire thought, bitterly to herself. Just when Noire was about to call out to Neptune to regroup and go over a strategy together, Neptune appeared behind the Heavy Tank.

Neptune had leapt high into the air and aimed the tip of her katana down at the robot. With a loud boom, Neptune shoved her katana into the robot and began wiggling it around. “Got it!” Neptune called out.

“Keep it up!” Noire shouted, as she rushed at the Heavy Tank.

Once more the Heavy Tank aimed it’s laser cannons at Noire, but before they could fire, Neptune removed her sword and sliced the cannons in two. With a loud explosion, the front part of the Heavy Tank exploded.

“Your mine!” Noire shouted, as she sliced the Heavy Tank’s side using her rapier.

Neptune leapt off the Heavy Tank and both girls started to run away. The Heavy Tank smashed into several walls, causing even more damage to the factory, but soon the thing stopped moving altogether.

“We did it!” Neptune cheered, as the Heavy Tank’s remains vanished.

“Yeah, but… It caused more damage to the factory.” Said Noire, sighing deeply. “Chian’s not going to be happy.”

“Yeah, but… I mean she’s going to have to fix this place up anyways, right? Besides, I bet she’d rather deal with a few cracks then the monsters, right?” Said Neptune.

“Well… You’ve got a good-” Before Noire could finish talking, a large section of the factory suddenly collapsed in on itself. Smoke flooded the building and debris fell from the ceiling. “-Point.” Noire said, her shoulders sagged.

“Oh crackers.” Said Neptune. Neptune noticed that Noire was trembling, her hands were balled into tight fists. “Okay Noire… This is what were going to do.” Neptune began, draping her arm over Noire’s shoulders. “We’ll tell Chian that the building was destroyed like this before we got here. So it’s not our fault, right?”

“Neptune?” Noire began.

“Yep?” Said Neptune, smiling brightly.

“Shut up.” Said Noire, annoyed. “Let’s just block the holes and report in to Chian. Okay?”

“Right.” Neptune said. “But keep in mind what I just said.”

“Shut up Neptune!” Noire snapped.

Noire and Neptune made their way outside and started carrying things over to the factory to plug up the holes. Thanks to Neptune’s stats, she was able to carry incredibly heavy things by herself. Noire on the other hand was only able to carry certain things.

“You know Noire.” Neptune began. “If you want to get stronger, I know a great place you can go. It’s a cave filled with dragons and-”

“I’m fine.” Noire said. When the girls finally covered up all the holes the best they could, they made their way back to Chian’s factory. Before the girls went inside, Noire turned to Neptune. “Listen. Let me do the talking, okay?”

“Okay…” Neptune said, annoyed that Noire wouldn’t listen to her advice.

Noire took a deep breath, before opening the door to the factory and leading the way inside. Noire and Neptune found Chian standing in the same place she was before. “WEre back.” Noire said.

“Welcome back girls. How’d it go?” Chian asked, not looking up from her work.

“We cleared out the factory and found some debris to plug up the holes in the side, so monsters shouldn’t be able to get back in.” Noire began. “But a Heavy Tank caused some more damage. I’m sorry.” Noire said, bowing. Neptune groaned a little, but bowed as well.

“That’s alright.” Said Chian, finally taking her eyes off her work. “You girls did great. Thanks!”

“But Chian.” Noire began.

“Hunting monsters and factory work are two different things.” Chian began. “For instance, I can tell you exactly how that machine over there is going to prepare one of my products.” Chian began, gesturing towards a nearby machine. “But when it comes to monsters. They’re a bit more unpredictable. I don’t blame you if the factory got a bit more destroyed because of them. It’s unavoidable.”

“That’s what I’ve been telling Noire, but she doesn’t listen to me.” Neptune said, giggling.

“Shut up Neptune!” Noire said, under her breath.

Chian couldn’t help, but laugh. “Anyways. I’ll go ahead and transfer the credits I owe you. Do you mind stopping by tomorrow? My boys are going to need some guards, while they do work on the factory.”

“Of course.” Noire said. “Neptune and I will be happy to help.”

“Huh? I was going to take a vacation tomorrow!” Neptune cried.

“No vacations. Work!” Noire said.

“What!? No way! This has to be against some kind of labor practice law!” Neptune cried.

“There aren’t any laws protecting bums.” Said Noire. “Now let’s go Neptune.”

“Where are we going?” Neptune asked.

Noire ignored Neptune’s question and instead led the to the guild where they applied for more jobs. “Were doing even more work? When do we get a pudding break?” Neptune asked.

“No breaks.” Noire said, as she led the two girls out of the city.

Neptune and Noire fought even more monsters, but soon found themselves standing in front of the Fairy Tower. “Hello Histoire.” Noire said, as she began to access one of Fairy Tower’s terminals.

“Hello Noire. Neptune.” Histoire said. “Both of your sisters were here earlier. I sent Nepgear the location of the next Fairy Tower.”

“That’s nice.” Noire said. “Those two certainly know how to work hard, unlike that lazy bum over there.” Noire said, glancing over her shoulder at Neptune who was collapsed onto the ground.

“Lazy bum? I’ve been working my cute little fingers to the bone!” Neptune said. “Listen to this Histoire. Noire caused half a factory to collapse. It was embarrassing.”

“I did not!” Noire snapped, at Neptune. Noire shook her head, before she made her way over to Neptune and pulled the girl to her feet. “Come over here and touch the Fairy Tower.”

“Huh? Why?” Neptune asked.

“Remember? You were shot by that Heavy Tank! You need to make sure you’re completely healed.” Said Noire.

“I am. I healed myself before, remember?” Said Neptune.

“I don’t care. Touch the Fairy Tower!” Said Noire.

Neptune blushed and giggled. “Oh Noire. You’re a dirty girl. Fine, I’ll touch it but I don’t want you to watch.”

Noire’s cheeks were bright red as well and her mouth was agape. “J-Just shut up!” She cried.

Neptune sighed deeply as she made her way over to the Fairy Tower and touched the terminal. Instantly, all the aches and pains she felt before disappeared. “There. I’m at one-hundred and…” Neptune began, but stopped talking when she realized that Noire looked relieved. “I mean I’m at five percent. I need pudding or I’ll die!”

“Nice try Neptune.” Histoire said, sighing deeply.

“Thanks.” Neptune said. “You know… Now that I’m here, I wanted to ask you a question Histoire.”

“Yes?” Histoire said, noticing that Neptune sounded serious.

“You said that I’m the only one who can activate all the Fairy Towers, right?” Neptune said.

“Yes.” Said Histoire.

“Well… What if Noire and I found a Fairy Tower that needed to be activated. What if I handed the USB memory stick over to her and she inserted it into the terminal. Would it not work?” Asked Neptune.

Noire was surprised. “That’s actually a good question.” Noire said.

“I was do for one.” Said Neptune.

“Actually it would work.” Said Histoire.

Neptune crossed her arms in front of her chest and nodded. “You see? So I have an idea.” Neptune began.

“I know what you’re going to say.” Said Histoire, before Neptune could say another word. “You want to suggest that we copy the data on the USB memory stick, create multiple versions of it and send it to the other nations, correct?”

“Huh? No.” Neptune said, shaking her head. “I was just going to give the USB memory stick to Noire and let her do the rest.”

“Lazy bum.” Noire muttered under her breath.

Histoire sighed deeply. “Jokes aside. The USB memory stick that you possess can be copied, but for safety reasons only one is allowed to exist at one time.”

“Really?” Said Neptune, annoyed. “So why am I the only one who can do this?”

Histoire closed her eyes and smiled. “Because Neptune. I know no matter how much you might complain and try to get out of work, you’d never leave this job half finished. You have a determination that’s very admirable.”

Noire began pounding information wildly into the Fairy Tower’s terminal. “What are you doing?” Neptune asked.

“I think someone must have uploaded a virus into Histoire. I’m going to run a scan right now.” Said Noire, typing ferociously into the terminal.

“I don’t have a virus!” Histoire snapped. Once Noire stopped typing, Histoire sighed once more. “Anyways Neptune. Please continue working hard to activate the rest of the Fairy Towers.”

Neptune sighed herself. “Right…”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 34

 “Neptune! Wake up!” Noire shouted. Neptune was sleeping soundly on the couch and Noire was towering over the girl, her hands were on her hips. “You need to get up and do some work! It’s almost ten in the morning!” Noire said, feeling incredibly annoyed that the girl who was meant to activate all the Fairy Towers refused to get up early.

“No thanks…” Neptune breathed. “I couldn’t possibly eat anymore… Oh is that pudding? I guess I have room after all!” Neptune muttered.

“A clichéd dream? Really?” Noire said, annoyed. “Get up Neptune!”

Neptune suddenly opened her eyes, which surprised Noire. “Huh? Where am I?” Neptune muttered, before she sat up and stretched her hands high over her head. “This isn’t my room… Or house… Or bed… Or little sister.” Said Neptune, turning to face Noire. “Who are you again?”

“Noire!” Noire shouted. “Listen Neptune. If you’re going to activate all the Fairy Towers in Lastation, then you need to show a little more responsibility. Just take our sisters for example. They both woke up early and are currently taking on several quests for Lastation. Meanwhile, what are you doing?”

“Going back to sleep?” Neptune offered.

“NO! You’re going to get up!” Noire said, grabbing Neptune by the arm and forcing the girl to her feet. “Now, I made some toast for you. Eat it, drink tea and let’s get going.”

Neptune groaned loudly as she made her way over to the table and started eating her toast. After that, she drank some tea that Noire had placed in front of her. “Where is Nepgear again?” Neptune asked, glancing around the room.

“I told you. She and Uni are doing quests for Lastation.” Noire said.

“Even though were Planeptune citizens?” Asked Neptune.

“Well Uni took on the quests, Nepgear is just helping her with them.” Said Noire.

“Cool.” Said Neptune, sighing deeply. “Where are we going?”

Noire made her way over to the tea pot and poured herself a cup. “I take on jobs exclusively for a factory.”

“Oh. Sounds fun.” Neptune said, dully.

“Work isn’t supposed to be fun. That’s why it’s called work.” Said Noire.

Neptune waggled her finger at Noire. “Oh Noire. Work can be fun. For instance, it’s my job to taste test pudding. I take my job very seriously, but it’s also fun!”

“No it’s not!” Noire shouted. “Listen Neptune. You need to hurry up with that toast. We need to leave soon.”

Neptune sighed deeply, but did as she was told. After finishing off the toast and tea, the two girls headed outside. As the girls walked down the streets of Lastation, Neptune’s eyes were as large as saucers. She was amazed by all the impressive looking buildings and incredibly high smokestacks. “Got to admit Noire. Lastation is pretty cool.” Neptune said.

“Isn’t it?” Noire said, smiling proudly.

“Huh? Why are you smiling? Lastation doesn’t belong to you, does it?” Neptune asked.

“Of course not.” Noire said, feeling a bit annoyed. “I still have pride in my city. Not sure why though.”

“I just assume you’re a weirdo.” Said Neptune, shrugging her shoulders.

“Well who asked you?” Noire said, her annoyance once again returned.

Neptune and Noire finally arrived at a large factory. Opening a small metal door, the two girls went inside and were instantly greeted by incredibly large machines, conveyer belts and thousands of blinking lights. The sounds of machines running greeted the girls ears as well.

“Wowie! This place is amazing!” Neptune said.

“Glad you like it.” Came a voice.

Neptune turned and spotted a blue haired woman standing in front of a work bench. The woman was drawing something on a long piece of paper. “How are you doing today miss Chian?” Noire asked.

“Oh please. I told you to just call me Chian.” Said the blue haired woman, not taking her eyes off her work. “So Noire? Who’s your friend?”

“Oh she doesn’t have any of those.” Neptune said, giggling.

“Hey!” Noire snapped. “I do have friends! I have tons of them!” Noire said, annoyed.

Chian giggled, as she finally turned her attention to Neptune. “Well I like to consider myself one of those friends.”

“See?” Noire said, gesturing at Chian.

“That’s so nice of you to play along.” Neptune said, ignoring the fact that Noire was now shaking with anger. “My name is Neptune by the way.”

“Nice to meet you Neptune.” Said Chian. “I know this might sound strange, but you’re not from around here are you?”

“How could you tell?” Neptune asked, surprised.

“Let’s just call it a hunch.” Said Chian. “Not that it matters to me.”

“Chian is the owner of this factory. Were going to do some work for her.” Said Noire.

“If you don’t mind of course.” Said Chian.

“I don’t mind. Since I’m here.” Neptune said, her shoulders sagged. “But I should warn you. I’m not good with machines, building stuff, walking around, lifting heavy things, driving things, filling up coffee pots, dealing with customers, making phone calls, holding open doors.”

“Sounds about right.” Noire said, smirking.

“Hey! I can fight monsters pretty darn good!” Neptune said, annoyed.

“Monsters is actually what I need your help with.” Said Chian. “There’s an old factory that’s located on the outskirts of Lastation. It’s crawling with monsters and I’m hoping you two could go there and clear them out. What do you say?”

Neptune didn’t answer right away. Instead she looked down at her hands. “I’m torn. My pride is on the line here, but I also don’t want to fight monsters right now.”

“We’ll take the job.” Noire said, grabbing Neptune by the arm. “Let’s go Neptune.”

“Huh? I don’t wanna!” Neptune cried, as Noire pulled her out of the factory.

“Good luck you two!” Chian said, waving goodbye to the girls.

***

Nepgear had spent the night in Uni’s room. Even though Uni offered Nepgear the bed, the girl couldn’t bring herself to take it. Instead she slept on the floor inside a sleeping bag. That morning, Nepgear was surprised to see Uni had awoken before she did. “Sorry I overslept.” Nepgear said, getting to her feet and stretching her hands over her head.

“You’re fine. I always get up this early.” Uni said, who was sitting at her workbench working on her gun.

“What are you doing?” Nepgear asked, wandering over to the workbench and looking down at Uni’s work.

“I’m just trying to increase the power output.” Said Uni.

“Huh…” Said Nepgear. “Have you thought about using a different lens to amplify power. Also if you’re worried about power loss, you might want to consider a backup power source, but you might have to rewire a few things, but I could help you with it.” Said Nepgear.

Uni’s lower jaw dropped. “Whoa. You sound like you know what you’re talking about.” The girl said.

“Oh, well…” Nepgear began, as she summoned her energy sword. “I built this thing from scratch. It took me a while to get all the parts I needed and it could use some improvements, but I’m proud of it.”

“That’s amazing Nepgear.” Uni said. “If you don’t mind. Could you help me with this?” She asked.

“Of course! I would love too!” Nepgear said, excitedly. After showing the energy sword off for a moment, she sent the blade away.

Uni took a deep breath. “Anyways. I need to take on some quests for the guild. What are your plans today?”

“Well…” Nepgear began. “Do you mind if I go with you? I’d like to help out if I can. Also I need to go back to the Fairy Tower and find out where the next one is. I sort of forgot to ask.”

“Cool.” Uni said, getting to her feet. “I know. I’ll take some quests that will take us in that area. Sounds good?”

“Great! Thanks!” Nepgear said. Uni was about to head for the door, but Nepgear stopped her. “Uni? What about your gun?” She asked. The gun that Uni had been working on was lying on the workbench in peaces.

“Oh! No worries. I actually own about five different guns. I make sure I have at least one in working order.” Said Noire.

“Right. That makes sense.” Said Nepgear.

Nepgear followed Uni out of her bedroom and downstairs where Noire was waiting. “Morning sis.” Uni said.

“Good morning Uni. Nepgear.” Noire said.

Nepgear saw that Noire was sitting at the table. Her arms were crossed in front of her chest and she was staring angrily at Neptune who was lying on the couch. Noire was tapping her index finger against her forearm.

“I’m so sorry.” Nepgear said, her cheeks grew bright red. “I’ll wake her up.” Nepgear was about to wake Neptune up, but Noire stopped her.

“No Nepgear. I’m going to whip your sister into shape starting today.” Noire said.

“Huh? Are you sure? She can be a handful.” Nepgear said.

“I’m sure. You two eat your breakfasts. Once you leave I’ll get to work on that.” Noire said, pointing a stern finger at Neptune’s unconscious body.

“What… Nepgear? You’re going to do all the work for me today? That’s sweet of you!” Neptune muttered in her sleep.

Nepgear’s cheeks grew even redder than before. “Oh geesh big sis.” Nepgear said, embarrassed.

Uni and Nepgear ate their breakfasts. After that, they headed for the front door. “I’ll see you later sis.” Uni said.

“Right. Be careful out there you two.” Noire said.

“We will.” Nepgear and Uni said, in unison.

Once the girls were outside and the door was closed, Nepgear sighed deeply. “Oh man… I hope your sister knows what she’s getting into.”

“Is miss Neptune hard to wake up or something?” Uni asked.

Nepgear didn’t answer right away. The girl was struggling with a good way to describe her sister. “Let’s just say my sister can be difficult when it comes to everything.” Nepgear said.

Uni sighed herself and patted Nepgear on the shoulder. “I could tell you were struggling to phrase it the right way.”

The two girls headed for Lastation’s guild. To Nepgear’s surprise, the building looked a lot like the guild in Planeptune. Uni applied for two hunting jobs. After that the girls headed out of Lastation.

“So what are we hunting today?” Nepgear asked.

“Were hunting for Spider and Plum-met monsters.” Said Uni.

“Got it.” Nepgear said, nodding.

Uni and Nepgear walked side-by-side until they came across their first group of Spider monsters. “There they are.” Uni said, as she summoned her gun. After that, Uni aimed her weapon at the spiders and fired.

The first energy blast struck one spider dead on, killing it instantly. The other spiders started running towards the girls. Uni aimed at another spider and killed it, before aiming at another one and killing it as well.

Nepgear summoned her sword and sliced through two of the creatures before they could launch their attack. Soon all the spiders had been dealt with. “That was pretty easy.” Nepgear said.

“Yeah. These spider monsters are pretty weak. The Plum-met monsters can be a bit more tricky.” Said Uni.

Nepgear nodded as she followed after Uni. When they finally came upon a few Plum-met monsters, Nepgear was surprised. “Are those pipes poking out of the ground?” Nepgear asked.

“Nope. Those are the monsters.” Uni said. The monsters did indeed look like large, green pipes though. “I’ll start shooting them. After I do, you go in for the kill. Okay?”

“Right.” Nepgear said, ready to leap into the fray.

Uni aimed her rifle at the Plum-met monsters and began firing. The moment her first attack hit the Plum-met monster on the right, the creature started sliding across the ground towards her. Uni ignored it as she fired at the other monster.

The moment Uni lowered her rifle, Nepgear leapt into action. She swung her sword hard killing the first Plum-met monster, after that she began running as fast as she could at the second one.

The Plum-met monster launched it’s large body at Nepgear when she was close enough, causing Nepgear to block the attack using her sword. After that, she swung her blade killing the monster instantly.

“WATCH OUT!” Noire cried, as she fired her rifle once more.

Nepgear turned on her heels and spotted a large spider monster leaping at her. Nepgear held up her sword to block the attack, but Uni fired her rifle. The energy blast struck the creature in the side, killing it.

“Goodness. That was close.” Nepgear said, breathing a sigh of relief. “Thanks Uni!” Nepgear said, smiling brightly at Uni.

“You’re welcome.” Uni said, suddenly becoming a bit cocky. “Lastation can be a pretty dangerous place, but you should be fine as long as I’m around.”

“You’re right.” Nepgear said. “I’m glad were friends Uni.”

“F-Friends?” Uni said, her cheeks grew bright red.

“Yeah. I mean… if you want to be.” Said Nepgear.

“W-Well…” Uni began. “I guess I don’t mind being your friend.” Uni said, scratching her right cheek nervously. “Anyways. Let’s keep going.” The girl said, quickly changing the subject.

Uni and Nepgear continued to make their way towards the Fairy Tower. When they finally arrived, Nepgear pulled out her N-Gear. “Excuse me Histoire.”

“Hello Nepgear. Uni. How are you two today?” Histoire asked, bowing a little.

“Were good.” Said Nepgear. “I’m sorry to bother you, but I forgot to get information on the next Fairy Tower.”

“I see.” Said Histoire. “I’ll send you two the information now. In the meantime, tell me. How is Neptune and Noire doing?”

***

Neptune and Noire made their way through Lastation and were soon standing in front of the factory that Chian had mentioned. The factory was old. It had large holes embedded in its sides, the front of the factory was littered with all kinds of junk including robot parts and the sounds of monsters could be heard coming from it’s dilapidated walls.

“Well this place looks cheery.” Said Neptune. “Are you sure you want to go in there Noire? We could just blow this whole thing off you know.”

“Are you kidding me?” Noire said, annoyed. “There’s no way were going to blow this job off. That’s irresponsible. You need to set a better example for your sister.”

“Huh? I am setting a great example for her.” Neptune said. “I think I am at least.”

“Yeah. I doubt it.” Said Noire, rolling her eyes. “Anyways, get your weapon ready. Were clearing this factory out now!” And with that, Noire and Neptune made their way into the factory.

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 33

 An awkward silence hung over the group as they made their way towards the city of Lastation, where Noire and Uni lived. As the girls walked, they kept their eyes open for any attacking monsters. Neptune glanced around the plain, but she wasn’t really watching out for monsters. Instead she was trying to find a way to break the silence.

“Man this is weird… We were trying to kill each other a minute ago and now were going to raid Noire’s fridge. So… What should I say?” Neptune wondered to herself. “Oh I know! An original Nep joke! That’ll get some laughs!” Neptune opened her mouth to say something, but before she could utter a word someone else broke the silence.

“Um… Sis?” Came the voice of Uni.

“What is it?” Noire asked, not taking her eyes off the path they were walking down.

“I did a good job today, right? I fought really hard and-” Uni began, but Noire cut her off.

“You did a passable job. You need to step up your game if you want to keep up with me.” Said Noire, her words sliced through Uni’s confidence.

“Oh… Right…” Uni said, her eyes fell to her feet.

“So, how long have you two been fighting monsters?” Asked Nepgear, hoping to make the situation a little less awkward.

“As long as we can remember.” Said Uni.

“That’s right.” Said Noire. “Let me ask you two something. How far back can you two remember?”

“How far back?” Neptune said, furrowing her brow. “I can barely remember what I had for breakfast.”

“Well…” Nepgear began. “I remember me and my sister living in the same house our entire lives.”

“Really?” Noire said, looking over her shoulder at Nepgear. “Same here. Me and Uni have been together forever. Or at least that’s what my memory is telling me. Listen, we’ll talk more once we get to our house.” And with that, all conversations came to an end.

The city of Lastation soon came into view. The entire city looked like it was made up of factories and smokestacks. The buildings looked like they were made back in an industrial revolution. Still, the air didn’t smell like smoke. Instead it smelled clean.

“Whoa! This place looks like it’s pumping some serious carbon emissions!” Neptune said.

“Actually our factories are environmentally friendly. It’s the pride of Lastation.” Noire said, with pride.

“Really? Cause it looks like it’s killing the environment to us! Hey this world belongs to everyone so everyone has to take care of it!” Neptune said.

“Shut it!” Noire snapped. “I told you that our factories are… Just shut up Neptune!” Said Noire.

Neptune giggled. “Ah Noire. Your comebacks are exactly what my witty humor needed!”

Noire sighed deeply, but she didn’t argue with Neptune. Instead she continued to lead the group into Lastation. “The four girls walked down several long streets until they found themselves standing in front of a small house. Noire opened the door and stepped aside so everyone could enter.

“You two can make yourselves at home.” Uni said. “I’ll get miss Neptune some pudding. Do you want any Nepgear? Sis?”

“I’m fine.” Noire said.

“None for me please.” Said Nepgear, waving her hand dismissively.

“Uh, since they don’t want their share, can I have it?” Asked Neptune.

“Greedy little-!” Noire began.

“Sis! You can’t do that. Noire and Uni were nice enough to invite us over. We shouldn’t gorge ourselves on their food!” Nepgear said.

Neptune giggled. “I-I was just joking Nepgear. You know that. One cup of pudding for me Uni.” Said Neptune.

Uni nodded as she made her way into the kitchen leaving Neptune, Nepgear and Noire alone. Nepgear glanced around the house. The girls were standing in a large room. Located on one side was a couch with a television and a game console. Located on the other side of the room was a table. There were a set of stairs leading to a second floor and a doorway that led into the kitchen.

“You have a nice place here.” Said Nepgear.

“Thank you.” Noire said, as she made her way over to the table. “Have a seat. We need to talk.”

Neptune sighed deeply. “Is it about your attitude?” She asked.

“No! It’s about the Fairy Tower, Histoire and why your useless butt is here!” Noire said, annoyed.

“Whoa. Better sit down.” Said Neptune, as she took a seat at the table. “So what are we talking about?” She asked.

As Nepgear and Noire took a seat, Uni returned with a cup of pudding for Neptune. “Here you are.” She said, placing it and a spoon down.

“Thanks Uni! I bet you have a ton of friends, unlike sour-puss over there.” Neptune said.

Noire was bristling with anger now, but instead of snapping she took several deep breaths. “Listen… Uni and I have been fighting monsters for a while now. We’ve also been working with Histoire at the Fairy Tower. She told us that someday two girls would appear to activate all the Fairy Towers in Lastation.” Noire said.

“That makes sense. Were destined to do something great. No wonder you attacked us.” Neptune said. “Jealousy.”

“I’m not jealous.” Noire said, annoyed. “When I first saw you two, you were running at the Fairy Tower with your weapons drawn. I actually thought you were going to attack it! Especially when I heard you yell ‘charge’.”

“Oops!” Neptune said, blushing a little. “My bad Noire.”

“That was our mistake. My sister can be pretty childish sometimes.” Nepgear said, sadly.

“I have a feeling you’re being nice.” Noire said. “But that’s beside the point. I wanted to ask you two once more and I want you to be honest and serious with me. How far back do you two remember?”

Neptune tilted her eyes towards the ceiling. “Well I remember living with Nepgear. We’ve lived in the same city and in the same house forever. Oh and we’ve been friends with IF and Compa forever too!”

“That’s right.” Nepgear said.

“Anything else? Do you remember buying your house? Do you remember meeting your friends?” Noire asked.

“Of course I… Don’t?” Neptune said, surprised. “I mean we had to have bought the house, right Nepgear?”

“That’s right.” Nepgear said, nodding.

“What about inheriting it from someone?” Uni asked.

“Like who?” Asked Nepgear.

“Your parents.” Noire offered.

Nepgear and Neptune’s jaws both dropped and their eyes went wide. “Mom and dad?” Nepgear said. “I… I don’t remember them. I can’t place them anywhere. I mean we have to have parents, right Neptune?”

“I guess, but parents are old fashion. No body has them anymore, right?” Said Neptune.

“Ignoring Neptune’s stupidity.” Noire began.

“Hey…” Said Neptune.

“Me and Uni are the same way. We both feel like we’ve been living in this house together forever. We’ve been fighting monsters near the Fairy Tower forever and we’ve been living in Lastation forever. However, when we asked Histoire how long we’ve actually been fighting monsters. She tells us it’s only been two months.”

“That doesn’t make any sense.” Said Nepgear.

“Actually it kind of does.” Said Neptune. “Did Histoire tell you about our memories being sealed?”

“She hasn’t.” Said Noire.

“Well everyone’s memories have been sealed and every time we activate a new Fairy Tower, we recover our memories.” Neptune said, getting to her feet. “Speaking of which. Doctor Neptune has a few questions for you two. Have you been feeling any dizziness or headaches?”

“We have.” Said Uni. “Just the other day I started feeling dizzy and getting a headache.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Noire asked, concerned.

“I-I didn’t want to worry you big sis.” Uni said, turning her eyes away from her sister.

“Did you remember anything after that?” Nepgear asked. “Like a memory you couldn’t quite place?”

Uni took a deep breath and nodded. “I do.” She said.

“What did you remember?” Noire asked.

“Uh…” Uni began. “I remembered that you were really proud of me and you patted me on the head.” Said Uni, blushing heavily.

Noire blinked her eyes several times. “Yeah, well there you go Doctor.” Noire said, turning her eyes to Neptune. Neptune had already plopped herself back down into her chair and started scrapping the last of her pudding off the side of the cup.

“Diagnosis over. More pudding please.” Said Neptune.

“Anyways. Histoire asked us before to look after you two.” Noire said, getting to her feet as well. “Uni? Do you mind if Nepgear shares a room with you?”

Uni shook her head. “I don’t mind.” She said, getting to her feet.
 
“No, please.” Nepgear said, standing as well. “Neptune and I have plenty of credits. We’ll just find a hotel to stay in.”

“No.” Noire said, narrowing her eyes at Nepgear. “Histoire asked us to look after you and we promised we would. Besides. I don’t know if I fully trust either of you, so you’re staying here so I can keep an eye on you.”

“Oh Noire. If you’re lonely you should just say so!” Neptune said, giggling.

“Yeah? Well let’s see how lonely you get when you see your bedroom.” Noire said, as she made her way towards the front door and opened it. “Right there on the stoop!”

“Hey! I’m feeling lonely already!” Neptune cried.

Nepgear groaned loudly. “Hey Nepgear? Want to check out our room?” Asked Uni.

Nepgear nodded. “Thanks Uni.” She said, smiling.

Nepgear wasn’t sure why, but she felt all kinds of emotions since she met Noire and Uni. She felt scared when she started thinking about parents she wasn’t sure existed and excited that she met Uni. For some reason, Nepgear had a feeling that she and Uni could become very close friends.

Uni led Nepgear out of the room while Neptune continued to tease Noire. The two girls headed upstairs and into the first door they came to. The room wasn’t that big. Located on the far left side of the room was a bed, with a nightstand next to it and a dresser. Located on the far right of the room was a table with an assortment of gun parts on it.

“I’m really sorry about my sister.” Nepgear began, as Uni closed the door. “She can be annoying, but she doesn’t mean any harm by it. She just likes getting a reaction out of people.”

“That’s okay.” Uni said. “She seems nice.”

“Yeah.” Nepgear said. “So… Uni? Can I ask you something?”

“Is it about my sister?” Uni asked.

Nepgear took a deep breath. “Maybe. What I wanted to ask you was about the memory you mentioned before. I could be wrong and I’m sorry if I am, but you were lying, right?”

Uni opened her mouth to say something. At first Nepgear though Uni was going to be mad because she narrowed her eyes at her, but suddenly the girl sighed deeply and closed her eyes. “Damn. I was hoping no one would have noticed.”

“I’m sorry.” Nepgear said.

“No.” Uni said, making her way over to the bed and taking a seat on it. “I’m sorry for lying. It’s just that my sister never compliments me. It almost feels like I’m never good enough for her. It hurts sometimes.”

“Have you ever talked to her about this?” Asked Nepgear.

“Of course not. She would just tell me to suck it up.” Said Uni. “Not all big sisters are as easy going as yours.”

“That’s true.” Said Nepgear. “But I know that she cares about you.”

“How do you know?” Asked Uni.

“Well, doesn’t she?” Asked Nepgear.

Uni fell back against her bed. “Shut up Nepgear.” Uni said, but her tone made Nepgear feel like she wasn’t angry. Just tired.

Nepgear couldn’t help, but giggle. “Yes ma’am.”

***

“By the way.” Neptune began, glancing around Noire’s living room. “Do you mind if I check out that game console over there? I really want to play it!”

“No.” Said Noire, annoyed. “I mean it actually belongs to Uni, so you need her permission.”

“Huh? You don’t play video games Noire?” Asked Neptune, making her way over to the console.

“Of course I play, but I’m usually busy with work and making myself stronger. Unlike some people, I actually value my time.” Said Noire.

“Unlike some people?” Neptune said, turning to Noire. “I bet you a million credits that I’m stronger than you are!”

“Oh no you did not just say that!” Noire said, pointing a stern finger at Neptune.

“Oh boy did I!” Said Neptune, briskly walking back over to the table. “I can prove it too!” And with that, Neptune placed her elbow down on the table. “Time to arm wrestle!”

Noire had her arms crossed in front of her chest and was tapping her forearm with her index finger. “Very well.” She said, taking Neptune’s hand into her own. “I’m going to crush you with my massive-” Noire stopped talking the moment she felt a tremendous force on her arm. She tried to fight back, but it was impossible. The back of her hand was gently pressed against the table. “What the-!” She cried.

“Whoo-hoo!” Neptune cheered, before flexing her muscles. “I am a winner!”

Noire barred her teeth at Neptune and rubbed her wrist. “How. How are you so strong? I know! It’s drugs right! Performance enhancing drugs!”

Neptune waved her hand dismissively. “Oh please. I’ve been getting stronger using the Fairy Tower. Duh!”

“Well… Whatever. You still have to sleep on the front stoop tonight.” Noire said, as she angrily headed into the kitchen to start dinner.

“No way Noire. I want to cuddle with you tonight!” Neptune said, following after the girl.

Noire angrily shouted. “SHUT UP NEPTUNE!”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 32

 An entire week had passed since Neptune and Nepgear left to train. At first it was just the two of them slaying dragons, but after a while their friends joined them. Now Neptune, Nepgear, IF, Compa, Red MAGES. and Falcom all fought along side each other killing dragons and getting stronger.

“You’ve all done very well!” Said Histoire.

“Especially me, right?” Neptune asked, pointing at herself.

Histoire stared unblinkingly at Neptune for a few moments, before she turned towards the other girls. “You’ve all managed to earn a ton of share energy. You should be able to increase your stats several times over.”

Neptune’s shoulders sagged. “Boo…” She breathed. “Nepgear and I could hardly raise our stats at all!”

“We still did pretty good big sis.” Said Nepgear, who was holding her energy sword by her side. “If it were me, I would stick around here for a while longer, but…”

Neptune took a deep breath and smiled weakly at her sister. “Yeah. Time to get moving, huh?”

“Yes.” Said Histoire, nodding.

“You two are headed for Lastation next?” Asked Falcom. “If you want. I can go with you.”

“We’d love that, but I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Said Nepgear. “Considering what happened with HachimaJin. If another monster appears, Planeptune is going to need all the help it can get.”

“So what your saying is… The goddess and her sister can’t be counted on?” Asked MAGES. smiling mischievously.

“Oh no!” Nepgear said, shocked by MAGES. words. “I’m not saying that at all. Purple Heart and Purple Sister are really powerful, they just need backup. That’s all!”

“Yes. I was teasing you.” Said MAGES..

“Oh goodness MAGES.!” Nepgear said, annoyed.

Neptune giggled. “Anyhoo, thanks for coming out and playing with us everyone!” Neptune said, saluting her friends. “We’ll be back at some point. So do us a favor and look after each other, okay?”

“Nep…” IF began. “Just worry about yourself and Gear. Okay?”

“I’m going to miss you Nep-Nep and Ge-Ge!” Compa said, her eyes were wet with tears.

“Bye wifeys!” Said Red.

“See you when you two get back!” Said Falcom.

After Falcom finished speaking, all the girls except for Neptune and Nepgear were teleported away. Neptune took a deep breath, before turning to Histoire. “Alright Histy. How do we get to Lastation?”

“We have to walk, remember sis? That way.” Nepgear said, pointing north.

“Ah-ha!” Neptune said, smiling proudly. “I see my little sister needs her big sister to further her education. You see Nepgear, we can’t simply walk into Lastation. Patrol guards will stop us.”

“Neptune is correct.” said Histoire. “However, this cave has a tunnel that will lead you into Lastation. After that, the walk to the next Fairy Tower will only take you a few hours.”

“Oh.” Nepgear said, surprised.

“See? Told ya!” Neptune said.

“Neptune… Wasn’t it I who told you this information yesterday? You’re sounding awfully cocky for someone who needed educated the previous day.” Said Histoire.

Neptune blushed a little. “Yeah… Well…” Neptune began, laughing a little as she scratched the back of her head. “Anyways. Let’s get going Nepgear.” Said Neptune.

“Right.” Nepgear said, nodding.

Neptune and Nepgear waved goodbye to Histoire and started walking towards the other side of the massive cavern. As they walked, the girl noticed that several of the dragons were making their way back into the cavern. Their massive feet caused ripples in the water.    

“It’s funny. I didn’t think we’d ever use dragons in order to get stronger.” Said Nepgear.

“I know, right? But we were killing them left right and center!” Neptune said, holding up her katana as she spoke.

When the girls finally reached the other side of the cavern, they spotted the tunnel that Histoire had mentioned. The tunnel looked dark and small. “Let me go first.” Nepgear said, as she pulled out her N-Gear. After pressing a few buttons on her N-Gear’s screen, a light came on.

“Wow! You can use that thing as a flashlight?” Neptune asked.

“Yeah. I installed one after I saw that IF’s smartphone had a flashlight function.” Said Nepgear. “Unlike her flashlight though, mine has a brighter bulb and it draws power from it’s own power source!” Nepgear said, smiling proudly at her small handheld device.

“Good girl Nepgear, but we can talk about your flashlight later.” Neptune said, giving Nepgear’s head a small pat.

“R-Right.” Nepgear said. Nepgear carefully held out her N-Gear as she held her energy sword with her other hand. After that, she led the way into the tunnel.

Neptune and Nepgear weren’t certain how long they walked. The only sounds they could hear was the sound of their own footsteps on the stone floor and the sound of something dripping from the ceiling. After several long minutes of walking the tunnel started to expand and soon they found themselves standing in a large cavern.

This cavern wasn’t nearly as big as the last one they were in, but it was better than the tunnel they were moving through before. Not only that, but several crystals created light.

Nepgear turned off her N-Gear’s light and then brought up the map. “Okay. Were in Lastation.” Said Nepgear, glancing over her shoulder at her sister.

“Nice. I’m ready to get out of this stupid cave!” Neptune said.

“Tell me about it. I don’t think we’ve seen the sun in days.” Nepgear said, sighing deeply.

“I’m like a solar powered calculator. If I don’t see the sun soon I’ll die and be useless.” Neptune said, before she giggled. “Funny… Me missing the sun.”

“Yeah.” Said Nepgear.

“Hey! Not supposed to agree.” Said Neptune, narrowing her eyes at the back of Nepgear’s head.

Nepgear didn’t say anything as she led the girls through the cavern and were soon standing outside. The sun was shining brightly overhead and a warm breeze blew through their hair. “I’m glad the sun’s still out.” Said Nepgear. “I don’t know about you big sis, but time seemed to stop when we were in that cavern.”

“Yeah. This week has felt like one really long day.” Said Neptune. “Anyways. Let’s hurry up and find that Fairy Tower. I want to get this thing over with!”

Nepgear nodded and pointed towards the north. “North.” Said Nepgear. The two girls walked side-by-side over the plains. As they walked, the girls noticed that the monsters around them were different.

“What kinds of creatures are these?” Neptune wondered, aloud. “I wonder if we can even kill them.”

“Who knows.” Said Nepgear. “I think we should try to avoid any fights until we reach the Fairy Tower.”

Several hours passed when the girls finally spotted the Fairy Tower in the distance. This Fairy Tower looked the same as the others, but it was nestled in the middle of four hills. The girls couldn’t see anything that was blocking or guarding the tower either.

“There it is!” Neptune said, pointing the tip of her katana at the giant device. “Come on Nepgear! CHARGE!” Neptune cried, as she started running as fast as she could.

“Wait for me big sis!” Nepgear cried, running after her sister.

The two girls ran as fast as they could. Their eyes were locked on the Fairy Tower. Just when Neptune reached the first hill, she stopped in her tracks when a figure suddenly appeared from behind the hill. The figure leapt several yards into the air and they held a rapier over their heads.

“OH NO YOU DON’T!” The figure cried.

Neptune gasped when she realized the figure was a girl with black twin pigtails. Neptune held her katana out in front of her as the girl brought her rapier down hard. “WHOA!” Neptune cried, as her feet sank into the ground a little.

“You better get out of here!” The girl cried, angrily.

“Hey! Leave my sister alone!” Nepgear cried, as she rushed forwards. Before Nepgear could swing her energy sword at the girl, she noticed something shimmering out of the corners of her eyes. Turning quickly she saw a beam of energy slicing through the air at her.

Nepgear held up her hand. “Barrier!” She cried. A barrier appeared between herself and the beam of energy. The beam of energy struck the barrier, blocking the attack. “I didn’t think I would have to use my new power already.” Nepgear thought.

“Shoot!” Came a feminine voice.

Nepgear noticed the place where the beam of energy had come from, a girl now stood. She had long black hair and was garbed in a black outfit and she carried a rifle in her hands.

“Noire!” The girl cried out.

“Don’t worry about me Uni. Just take care of that one.” Noire said, gesturing with her head at Nepgear.

Neptune gritted her teeth as she pushed Noire off her. “Hey! I don’t know who you are, but I know one thing for sure!” Neptune pointed the tip of her katana at Noire. “You obviously don’t have any friends!”

“WAH!” Noire cried, angrily. “Who are you accusing of not having any friends!”

“Obviously it’s you!” Neptune said.

“Oh! That’s it!” Noire leapt at Neptune and swung her rapier three times. Neptune easily blocked each attack and swung her sword as well, which Noire easily blocked.

As Neptune and Noire’s battle raged on, Nepgear turned her focus to Uni. Uni ran at Nepgear as fast as she could and continued to fire her rifle. Nepgear used her barrier to block each of the shots, but she was running out of energy already. “I can’t keep blocking! I have to attack!” Nepgear thought, as she too started running forwards.

When Uni was close to Nepgear she swung the butt of her rifle at Nepgear’s face, Nepgear quickly dodged out of the way, but Uni was faster and slammed the heel of her right shoe into Nepgear’s chest, knocking her backwards.

Nepgear slammed into the ground, but forced herself to roll backwards. The girl managed to dodge several laser blasts, but only by a few seconds.

“That’s it!” Nepgear screamed, as she kicked off the ground and leapt high into the air.

“Easy target!” Uni said, aiming her rifle at Nepgear and pulling the trigger.

Just as the laser beam struck Nepgear in the chest, Nepgear created another barrier. The beam of energy was absorbed by the barrier. Nepgear fell straight onto Uni, but before they struck each other, Nepgear pulled her shield away.

“OW!” Uni and Nepgear cried, as they both slammed into the ground. Nepgear straddled Uni’s waist, as she grabbed the girl’s rifle and pulled. Uni held onto her gun with all her might. “GET OFF ME!” Uni screamed.

“NO! YOU LET GO OF THE GUN!” Nepgear cried.

“YOU STOP SAYING I DON’T HAVE ANY FRIENDS!” Noire screamed.

“YOU STOP… ATTACKING ME!” Neptune said, trying to find something to yell about.

“YOU FOUR STOP FIGHTING! NOW!” Histoire’s voice exploded from the Fairy Tower, causing the ground beneath the girls to shake.

All the girls stopped fighting almost immediately. “Histoire! Were just trying to protect the Fairy Tower!” Noire said.

“That’s right! These terrorists were trying to attack it!” Said Uni.

“Terrorists? Were not terrorists! Were trying to activate the Fairy Tower!” Said Nepgear, sighing deeply.

“That’s right! Tell them Histoire!” Said Neptune.

Histoire took a deep breath. “Please come over here before we continue talking.” Histoire said.

Neptune, Nepgear, Noire and Uni did as they were told. The girls cautiously walked side-by-side until they were standing in front of the Fairy Tower. Neither of the girls trusted the other and weren’t certain if this was some kind of trap. “Now.” Histoire said, taking a deep breath. “Who has the flash memory stick?” Histoire asked.

“I do.” Said Neptune, holding it up.

“Good. Please insert it into my USB drive.” Said Histoire.

“Oh my! That sounded lewd.” Neptune said.

Histoire furrowed her brows, but when she ran the sentence back through her head, her cheeks grew bright red. “JUST DO IT!” Histoire snapped, angrily.

“Whoa! Histy is Pissty!” Neptune said, as she playfully nudged Noire with her shoulder. “Get it? I took Histy’s name and-”

“Clever. Just do it before Pissty get’s even more pissed.” Said Noire.

“Tough crowd.” Neptune said, sighing deeply.

“One second.” Said Nepgear, holding up her hand. “Histoire? Aren’t you already activated?” She asked.

Histoire took a deep breath. “Good question. This Fairy Tower isn’t activated. It’s normal functions are active, but I don’t have access to the Fairy Tower data. I do know, thanks to a quick scan, that Neptune is carrying the flash memory stick.”

“Huh…” Noire said, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “So Histoire. You know who these two girls are?”

“That’s correct. They, along with you and your sister, are in my memory banks. They are important like you two are.” Histoire said, looking from Noire and Uni.

“So are they friend or foe?” Noire asked.

“Let this answer your question!” Neptune said, as she moved towards the Fairy Tower and slid the flash memory stick into it. “Does that feel good Histoire? It’s not too tight is it? What if I-”

“SHUT UP!” Histoire snapped, her cheeks were even redder than before.

After a few moments of awkward silence, the Fairy Tower started humming loudly, but soon the humming settled back down. “Very good. You managed to activate this Fairy Tower.” Histoire said, smiling brightly at Neptune. “I can see you managed to activate all the Fairy Tower’s in the nation of Planeptune.”

“That’s right. We’ve been nepping it up everywhere!” Neptune said.

Histoire nodded. “I can see that. You two have been on quite a journey so far, but unfortunately your journey isn’t over just yet.”

“Don’t tell me.” Neptune began.

“That’s correct. There are four more Fairy Towers that must be activated in Lastation.” Said Histoire.

Neptune fell to her knees and threw her hands into the air. “NOOOOOO!” She screamed. Suddenly Neptune turned to Noire. “Do you have any pudding?”

“Not on me, but at home… Why? Do you want some?” Noire asked.

“YEEEEESSSSSS!” Neptune screamed.

Nepgear and Uni sighed deeply. “Oh goodness.” They both said, in unison.

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 31

 Purple Sister woke up early that morning. She knew that her friends were leaving to train with Neptune and Nepgear and she didn’t want to waste her day sleeping. Instead she wanted to get a few things done so she and Falcom could hangout later that day. After eating breakfast, Purple Sister bravely made her way to her sisters room.

Normally Purple Heart would be working that morning, but today was different. Today Purple Heart had agreed to take her to the guild so Purple Sister could take on a few quests by herself.

“Big sister?” Purple Sister began, lightly knocking on her sisters bedroom door.

“Come in.” Came the voice of Purple Heart.

Purple Sister opened the door and saw her sister sitting behind a large desk going over some paperwork. “Oh… I’m sorry.” Purple Sister said.

Purple Heart looked up from her work. “It’s okay. I know I said I was taking the morning off, but I couldn’t help but go over some of this stuff. It’ll pile up if I don’t.” The girl said, getting to her feet.

Purple Sister shook her head. “No. I know it’s very important. If you want. I can go to the guild by myself and…” Purple Sister stopped talking when Purple Heart placed a hand on her shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze.

“Don’t be sill. You’re very important to me too.” Purple Heart said. “You’re very considerate Purple Sister, but I don’t mind taking time to spend with you.” The girl said, smiling reassuringly at her sister.

Even though Purple Sister couldn’t remember her sister at all, she did feel warm being around her. She loved her sister, but wished that she remembered more about her. “Thank you.” Purple Sister said, fighting back her tears.

“Did you have breakfast yet?” Asked Purple Heart.

“Yes.” Said Purple Sister.

“Good. Can’t work on an empty stomach.” Purple Heart stretched her hands high over her head and yawned loudly. Purple Heart opened her eyes and giggled. “Yawning like that. Not very goddess-like of me, huh?”

“It’s okay. I’m not very goddess like either.” Said Purple Sister, blushing a little.

Purple Heart sighed deeply and her smile vanished. “I know I told you this before, but I feel like something’s wrong, or missing.”

“Really?” Asked Purple Sister.

“Yeah. Like when you were missing.” Said Purple Heart, before the girl suddenly shook the thought out of her head. “Never mind me. Let’s get going to the guild, okay?” The girl said, turning to Purple Sister.

“Right.” Purple Sister said, nodding.

And with those words, the two girls headed outside onto a balcony. Even though Purple Sister still felt a bit uneasy about flying, it didn’t stop her from taking off and soaring high into the air. After doing a few loops in the sky, Purple Sister turned back towards her sister who was watching from the balcony.

“I’m ready.” Purple Sister said, smiling warmly at her sister.

“Alright. Let’s go.” Purple Heart said, as she kicked off the balcony and started flying along side her sister.

The two girls flew over Planeptune until they spotted the guild building far below. After that, the two girls landed. Several people stopped and turned to marvel at the two goddesses, but Purple Sister couldn’t see them. All she could see was the door of the guild building.

“This is it.” Purple Sister thought, taking a deep breath. “Nothing to be scared of. I can do this!” Purple Sister gathered all her courage as she stepped into the guild and accepted several jobs. Afterwards, she headed outside where Purple Heart was waiting. “I-I did it!” She said, holding up three pieces of paper. “I didn’t cry or anything!”

Purple Heart smiled warmly at her sister. Making her way over to the girl, she placed her hand firmly on her head. “You did really well! Now, what kind of jobs did you accept?” She asked.

Purple Sister blushed and giggled, before she looked down at the papers she held. “Okay. One is to kill some dogoo, I’m not really happy about killing dogoo, but I thought it was important. The next two are collecting herbs.”

“Two jobs collecting herbs?” Purple Heart asked, furrowing her brow.

“Yes. One is for a hospital and another is for a doctor.” Said Purple Sister.

“Oh okay.” Said Purple Heart. “I thought you might have applied for the same job twice.”

“I didn’t make any silly mistakes either!” Purple Sister said.

Purple Heart giggled as she tousled Purple Sister’s hair. “Alright little sister. You work hard, okay? If you need me for anything, anything, just let me know.”

“I will.” Purple Sister said, nodding.

Purple Sister turned and flew towards the Planeptune’s gate. Once she had left the city she started her first job, hunting dogoo. Purple Sister summoned her sword just as she landed on the ground. After that, she made her way to the first dogoo.

“These things are cute, but I have to do my best.” Purple Sister said, as she raised her sword and brought it down on the dogoo’s head. The dogoo was cut cleanly in two and after a moment the creature vanished. After that, Purple Sister hunted down four more dogoo.

“Purple Sister?” Came a familiar voice.

Purple Sister turned and spotted IF standing a few yards away. IF wore a large smile on her face. “Good to see you again!” She said, waving.

“IF!” Purple Sister said, floating over to her friend. “I missed you! How are you?” She asked.

IF giggled. “I’m good.” She said.

Purple Sister blinked her eyes several times. “Are you sure? You seem kind of upset.” Purple Sister began. “I know I might not be useful, but…” Before Purple Sister could finish speaking, her shoulders started to shake.

“No, no!” IF said, patting Purple Sister on the shoulders. “You’re great! I was actually trying to hide it. How upset I feel.”

“Really?” Said Purple Sister. “You don’t have to hide anything from me. What’s wrong?” She asked.

IF hesitated for a moment, but decided to tell Purple Sister how she was feeling. “The truth is… I have a friend and-” IF told Purple Sister about Arfoire and she didn’t leave anything out. Once she was finished, Purple Sister had crossed her arms in front of her chest and closed her eyes.

“I see.” She said. “I don’t like people hating my sister or my friends, but…” Purple Sister opened her eyes. “I don’t like telling people how they’re supposed to feel either. Everyone’s different.”  

“Yeah.” Said IF.

“And Arfoire’s afraid of hurting someone.” Said Purple Sister.

“She’s afraid?” IF asked.

“Yeah.” Purple Sister said, nodding. “I’m certain of it. When I learnt that I could summon a sword and shoot monsters with it, I became afraid. I was worried that I might end up hurting someone. Like Falcom, or someone else. I wanted to stay away from people, but Falcom made me feel better. She said that it’s my decision if I hurt anyone.”

“That’s a good point.” Said IF.

“That might not be it though.” Said Purple Sister. “She’s also remembering things, right? She remembers that she hates my sister and Neptune, right? She just doesn’t remember why. It might be better if…” Purple Sister quickly clasped her hands over her mouth.

IF giggled. “You were going to say it would be better if she kept her distance, right?” IF asked.

Purple Sister started talking through her hands while nodding her head.

IF couldn’t help, but giggle again. “No you’re right.” Said IF. “I mean I’m remembering things as well and apart of me is worried what those things might be. Right now I love my friends, but it’s kind of scary to think that I might end up hating them simply because I remembered something.”

“Y-yeah.” Purple Sister said, slightly moving her hands away form her mouth.

IF and Purple Sister stood in awkward silence for a few moments, before IF decided to change the subject. “Anyways, I see you took on some jobs from the guild?”

“Yes. I have to kill five dogoo, and collect herbs for two clients.” Purple Sister said.

“Ah.” IF said, nodding. “I’m killing dogoo, dogoo man and a few other monsters.” Said IF, reaching into her pocket and removing a few slips of paper.

“IF? Can I ask you something very serious?” Purple Sister asked, balling her hands into tight fists.

IF swallowed hard. She suddenly felt very nervous. “Of course you can.” She said.

“Well… Why does Planeptune hate dogoo so much?”

IF couldn’t help, but laugh which left Purple Sister confused. “No. We don’t hate dogoo. It’s just that they spawn so quickly and they can cause trouble for the city. That’s all.” IF said, reassuring Purple Sister.

“Oh! I see.” Purple Sister said.

“Anyways, I’ll help you collect those herbs, okay?” Said IF, patting Purple Sister on the arm.

“Thanks IF!” Purple Sister said.

“Nah. It’s the least I could do. Thanks for listening!” Said IF.

“Hey girls.” Came the familiar voice of Falcom. IF and Purple Sister turned. “Hi Falcom. Did you go fishing?” Purple Sister asked.

“Yeah, but I didn’t catch anything.” Said Falcom.

“That stinks.” Said IF. “Purple Sister and I were about to find some herbs. You want to join us?”

“Huh?” Falcom began. “No. I don’t want to get in-”

“Join us.” Purple Sister said, wrapping her hands around the hand Falcom was carrying the poles in. “Please?”

Falcom giggled. “Well I can’t say no to you. Let me find a place to stash my gear, okay?” Said Falcom, as she made her way over to the gate and gently sat it down. After that, the girl headed back over to where IF and Purple Sister were waiting. “Alright. I’m ready.” She said.

“Great. I know a place where we can pick some good herbs.” Said IF. IF led the girls over to a large patch of grass that was surrounded by several trees. “This is the place I like to gather from. The herbs themselves might be a little difficult to spot, but if you rummage around long enough, you’ll find what you need.”

“Okay.” Said Falcom, eager to start.

“Oh. One last thing. Compa told me this, but don’t pick too many herbs. Just grab the amount you need.”

“Okay.” Said Falcom, nodding. “How many do we need?”

“About ten pieces altogether.” Purple Sister said. “I’m getting them for a hospital and a doctor.”

“Oh. So this is pretty important, huh?” Asked Falcom.

“Yes. Very important.” Said Purple Sister.

Falcom, Purple Sister and IF fell to their knees and started running their hands through the grass. Every time they spotted an herb, they would call it out before they picked it. Soon they had at least five herbs picked, but still needed to collect five more.

“Can I tell you all something?” Purple Sister began.

“Of course you can.” Said Falcom.

“Go ahead.” Said IF.

Purple Sister took a deep breath. “You remember the day HachimaJin attacked? Well after everything settled down, my sister told me something that made me a little nervous.” Said Purple Sister.

“She did?” Asked Falcom, not looking up from her hunt for herbs.

“Yes.” Said Purple Sister. “She said that she’s a lot like me. She said that she feels like she’s missing something.”

“Oh yeah?” Said IF, pausing for a moment. “I feel like everyone’s missing something lately.” IF said.

“Memories, right?” Falcom offered.

“No. Well yes, but also no.” Said Purple Sister.

IF giggled. “Let me guess. She sat her pudding down and can’t remember where it is?”

“No.” Purple Sister said, shaking her head. “Well yes, but not that either. She just said that she feels like something’s missing.”

“Huh…” Both IF and Falcom said in unison. “In that case, it might be something more personal.” Said IF.

“Maybe try to talk to her.” Falcom suggested.

“That’s a good idea.” Said IF said.

“Yeah, but…” Purple Sister began. “I don’t want Purple Heart to think that I’m trying to pry into her business. What if she hates me?” Purple Sister thought, nervously. Purple Sister cleared her throat and said, “I don’t know how big sis would feel if I pried into her business. We haven’t really known each other that long.”

“Are you kidding?” IF said, giggling. “You’re sisters! I know your memories are missing, but she knows you. I’m also sure she would feel great knowing that you’re worried about her.”

“Really?” Purple Sister asked.

“Really.” Said IF.

“Okay. I will.” Said Purple Sister, nodding. “Can I ask a favor? Could we keep this between just the three of us? I know keeping secrets isn’t right, but still…”

IF nodded. “Hey. I was just giving a friend a little advice. That’s it.” She said.

“No problem Purple Sister.” Said Falcom.

Once Falcom, Purple Sister and IF finished collecting all the herbs they stood and brushed themselves off. “Here you go.” Falcom said, handing the herbs she had collected over to Purple Sister.

“I hope this helps.” Said IF, handing over the herbs she had.

“Thank you both so much.” Purple Sister said, smiling and blushing heavily. “I hate to do this, but I need to hurry and complete my quest. Falcom? Can we still hangout later? I know you’re leaving tomorrow so I-”

“It’s okay.” Falcom said, cutting Purple Sister off. “Go ahead and finish your quest. I’m going back to the Basilicom. We’ll hangout when you get back.”

“Thanks!” Purple Sister said, turning to leave. Before Purple Sister could take a single step however, she noticed two figures making their way out of Planeptune’s gate.

“Hello Wifeys!” Red called, waving to the group of girls.

“Yes. Hello.” Said MAGES..

Red looked as though she wanted to talk to everyone, but when she noticed that MAGES. was walking towards a large group of trees, she turned and ran to catch up with her. “She seems annoyed.” IF muttered, noticing how upset MAGES. looked.  

“The never ending quest to find as many wifeys as possible.” Said Falcom.

Purple Sister blushed and hugged the herbs in her hand close to her chest as though they were a bouquet of flowers. “Red is really sweet. I’m happy to be her wifey.”

***

“Excuse me.” Purple Sister began, as she stepped up to the guild counter. The receptionist on the other side smiled brightly. “I’m submitting these quests as completed.” Purple Sister said, placing the pieces of paper down on the counter, along side the herbs she had collected.

“Thank you very much lady Purple Sister.” The receptionist said, taking the quest papers and herbs from Purple Sister. “May I have your guild card so I can transfer the credits you earned?”

Purple Sister shook her head. “No thank you. I was hoping I could donate the money to the Planeptune reconstruction fund.”

“Of course! Thank you very much!” The receptionist said, as she typed some information into her computer. After she was finished, the receptionist turned her eyes back to Purple Sister. “Alright. You’re all set!”

“Thank you!” Purple Sister said, as she stepped out of the guild building. Purple Sister took a deep breath. The girl wasn’t tired, but she felt like going home. “I want to hangout with Falcom now!”

Before Purple Sister could make her way to the Basilicom however, she heard her cell phone ring. “Hello?” Purple Sister said, taking out her phone and bringing it up to her ear.

“Purple Sister! HELP!” Red cried.

“Red? What’s wrong?” Purple Sister asked, nervously.

“MAGES. and I are trapped in a cabin! We need help!” Red cried. “Were just outside of Planeptune, can you come?”

“I’m on my way!” Purple Sister said, kicking off the ground and soaring into the air. Purple Sister flew out of Planeptune and headed towards the direction that she saw Red and MAGES. heading just a while ago. It didn’t take Purple Sister very long to find the place Red told her about. Nestled between dozens of trees was a small cabin that was completely surrounded by dogoo. The amount of dogoo was so staggering that the cabin looked like it was floating on water.

Purple Sister summoned her sword and landed gracefully on the ground outside the mass of dogoo. Raising her sword, Purple Sister started slicing through the creatures with incredibly speed.

All the dogoo turned their black eyes towards the girl and began growling angrily at her. They leapt and tried to attack Purple Sister, but the goddess was too fast and powerful for them. The girl’s sword sliced through their gelatinous bodies as though they were made of nothing.

After a few moments of this, the dogoos all roared in anger, but instead of attacking Purple Sister, instead they all scampered off.

“That was weird.” Purple Sister breathed.

The door to the cabin opened and both Red and MAGES. came outside. “Ah the Purple Sister. I’m ashamed of myself for letting things get out of hand.” MAGES. said, sighing deeply, but you have my thanks.

“It’s okay.” Purple Sister said, shaking her head. “What happened anyways?”

“Well.” Red began, laughing nervously.

“The truth is. I had a feeling that we might need to take a break during our training. So I created a device that should drive monsters away, but it needed some fine-tuning.” Said MAGES.. “I did get it working though.” Said MAGES., turning her eyes towards Red. “Thanks to you.” And with that, MAGES. gave red a pat on the head.

“Aw! I’d do anything for my wifeys!”

Purple Sister blushed heavily. “I’m glad.” Purple Sister said. “If you’re finished here I can walk you two back to town.”

“Sounds nice.” Said Red, as she looped her arm around Purple Sister’s arm and MAGES..

MAGES. groaned loudly, but she didn’t pull her arm away. “Sounds nice.”

***

Purple Sister, MAGES. and Red finally made it back to town. Once there, the girls said goodbye to each other and went their own ways. Purple Sister stood still for a few moments, before she remembered she needed to get back to the Basilicom to hangout with Falcom.

“I’m feeling hungry.” Purple Sister thought, when she heard her stomach growling. Purple Sister walked down on the long street, but stopped when a delicious aroma reached her nostrils. “What is that smell?” She wondered, turning her eyes to where the smell was coming from. “Planeptune’s Pizzeria?” Purple Sister read aloud. “I want pizza!”

Purple Sister went into the shop. Twenty minutes later she held a box with a pizza inside. “I can’t wait to share this with Falcom!” Purple Sister thought, as she kicked off the ground and carefully flew back to the Basilicom. Moments later Purple Sister was knocking on Falcom’s bedroom door.

“Hello? Come in.” She said.

Purple Sister opened the door and poked her head inside. “Hi Falcom. I’m back.” She said.

“Hey.” Falcom said, as she sat up in bed and stretched her arms over her head. “Did you take care of the guild?” She asked.

“I did.” Said Purple Sister. “They offered me some credits, but I asked for them to donate it to Planeptune’s reconstruction fund. I would have been back a bit sooner, but I needed to do something before I came back home.”

“Aw. That’s sweet of you. You‘re such a thoughtful girl Purple Sister. I’m sure your sister is very proud of you. I know I am.” Falcom said, getting to her feet. “Well. Are you ready to hangout? We can do whatever you want.”

Purple Sister’s eyes lit up with joy. “Well… I was hoping we could get something to eat and maybe play some video games.”

“Sure!” Falcom said, patting her stomach. “I could eat.”

Purple Sister opened the door showing that she was holding a long thin box in her hands. “Great! I already have food for us.”

“Is that a pizza?” Falcom asked, excitedly.

“It is.” Said Purple Sister. “I’ve always wanted to try one since I saw a pizza shop on the way home.”

Falcom couldn’t help, but laugh. “Looks good Purple Sister. Let’s eat!”

***

The following morning Purple Sister woke up early to see her friend off. Falcom turned and waved back to Purple Sister and Purple Heart who were standing at the Basilicom’s front doors.

“Bye! Please be careful!” Purple Sister called out. When Falcom could no longer be seen, Purple Sister took a deep breath. The girl fought back her tears. “Well… She’s gone.” Purple Sister breathed.

“It’s okay. They’ll all be back soon.” Said Purple Heart, patting Purple Sister on the back. “Well I need to get some work finished. I better get back inside.”

Purple Sister suddenly remembered the question she wanted to ask her sister. “Purple Heart?” She began, nervously. “Can I… ask you a question?”

“You can ask me anything sis.” Purple Heart said.

Purple Sister took a deep breath. Her heart was pounding wildly in her ears. “Um… I wanted to ask you….” She began, trying to find the right words. The words that wouldn’t upset her sister. “I wanted to ask… What you felt was missing.”

“Oh… That?” Purple Heart said. “I love you Purple Sister.”

Purple Sister blushed. “I love you too sis.”

“I love Planeptune as well and I would do anything for you and my city.” Purple Heart said, looking down at her hands which were now folded together. “If a monster or an army attacked my city or you. I would give my life to keep them safe, but when it comes to my people?”

“Yes?” Purple Sister said.

“I don’t love them.” Purple Heart said.

Purple Sister’s lower jaw dropped. She couldn’t believe what her sister had just said. “What do you mean?” She asked.

“That’s something I’m trying to figure out.” Purple Heart said, a tinge of anger could be heard in her voice. “It doesn’t make sense, you know? I should love my people. They do so much for us, but for some reason I can’t do it. I would fight for them, I would protect them, but only out of duty.”

“I-I see.” Purple Sister said.

Purple Heart swallowed hard, before turning her eyes towards the door of the Basilicom. “I’m sorry Purple Sister. I hope I didn’t upset you.” And with those words, Purple Heart made her way into the Basilicom.

“It’s okay big sister.” Purple Sister muttered. “Everything’s going to be okay.”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 30

 Ever since MAGES. had made it to Planeptune, her mind had been set on one thing and one thing only. Discover the secrets of the Fairy Tower. MAGES. had spoken to Histoire at length about the Fairy Tower on many occasions, but the fairy like girl refused to divulge any of it’s secrets.

“Yes it’s me!” MAGES. said, as she grabbed her cell phone from her pocket and began speaking feverishly into it. “I’m at the Fairy Tower now, but the one known as Histoire refuses to tell me anything about the Fairy Tower. I’m afraid we might have to scrap our plans until later.”

Histoire sighed deeply. “Are you actually talking to anyone?” Asked Histoire, looking dully up at MAGES..

“I have to go. She’s getting suspicious. Loochs tneve emag noitamina cisum.” MAGES. said, before hanging up her phone and sliding it back into her pocket. “Well Histoire, I must go. I have other maters I must attend to.”

“Very well.” Histoire said, bowing her head a little. “But you should know. I cannot tell you anything about the Fairy Tower that’s listed as classified.” Histoire said, before disappearing.

“Yes you will.” MAGES. said, smiling mischievously.

Histoire suddenly reappeared. “No I won’t.” She said, before disappearing once more.

MAGES. turned to leave, she managed to walk a few steps when a loud scream caused her to stop in mid-stride. MAGES. scanned the area for the owner of that scream, but all she saw were monsters.

“Where are you?” MAGES. called out.

“H-H-HERE!” Came the voice of a girl.

MAGES. eyes went wide when she spotted a red haired girl running over a hill, she was quickly followed by dozens of monsters. Most of those monsters were dogoo, but there were other monsters as well.

MAGES. held up her staff. Moments later a large boulder fell from the sky and smashed into the onslaught of monsters. After that, she swung her staff around in a circle causing fire to rain down from the sky and kill the remaining monsters.

“HELP!” The red haired girl cried.

“I killed the monsters so you-” Before MAGES. could finish speaking, the girl plowed into her, knocking both of them to the ground. “Ouch. That really hurt.” MAGES. said rubbing the side of her head. MAGES. noticed the red haired girl was straddling her waist.

“Oh no.” The red haired girl began. “Did I tire you out already?” She asked.

“Little pest. Who are you?” MAGES. demanded.

“My name’s Red! What’s your name babe?” Asked Red, smiling brightly at MAGES..

“Babe? That doesn’t fit me at all. Call me MAGES. the mad magician!” Said MAGES..

“Mages?” Said Red, smiling even brighter than before.

“No. It’s MAGES. with a period at the end.” Said MAGES..

“I’m not sure that makes sense, but I’ll call you MAGES.. Okay babe?” Said Red.

“Whatever. Get off me Red.” Said MAGES., annoyed.

Red did what was asked of her and climbed off the mad magician. Once the two were standing, MAGES. noticed that red was walking a small circle around her. Once she was standing back in front of the girl, she crossed her arms in front of her chest. “I made up my mind. You’re going to be my next wifey!” Said Red.

“Wifey? I don’t think so.” Said MAGES., shaking her head.

“You…” Red began, tears welled up in the corners of her eyes. “Don’t want to be my wifey?”

“That’s correct.” Said MAGES., as she dusted herself off. “I must leave now Red. I would say it was a pleasure to meet you, but I don’t believe in lying.” And with that, MAGES. headed back to Planeptune, certain that she wouldn’t see Red again.

However, that wasn’t the case. When HachimaJin attacked the city, MAGES. was forced to work along side Red, who still insisted that she was Red’s wifey. When HachimaJin was dealt with by Neptune, Nepgear and Purple Sister, MAGES. decided that she would travel to the Fairy Tower surrounded by dragons and train along side her new acquaintances.

The day before MAGES. was to travel with everyone to the Fairy Tower located furthest away from Planeptune, she decided to complete another experiment she was working on. MAGES. had been staying in a small hotel. Even though she didn’t tell anyone where she was staying, she was surprised when she opened her door to leave for the day.

“Red.” MAGES. said, sighing deeply. “Don’t tell me! You’re working for the organization?!”

“What’s an organization?” Asked Red, tilting her head slightly to the right.

“No. They would never employ someone who’s so soft in the head.” Said MAGES..

Red blushed. “Thanks!” She said. “So where’s my precious wifey going today?” She asked.

“I’m stepping out of Planeptune for a moment. I’m working on a device and I need some peace and quiet to finish it.” Said MAGES., grabbing a small bag that was resting near the door and brushing past Red.

“Cool! I’ll go with you!” Said Red, ignoring the ‘peace’ and ‘quiet’ part of what MAGES. wanted.

MAGES. sighed deeply as she made her way out of the hotel and down the long street heading towards Planeptune’s gate. As the two girls walked, MAGES. could hear Red giggling behind her. “What amuses you so?” She asked.

“I’m going on a date with my wifey! I’m so happy!” Said Red, blushing heavily.

“I’m not your wifey and this isn’t a date.” Said MAGES.. “Seriously. What do I have to say to make you understand?”

“I understand.” Said Red, speaking up.

“Do you?” Asked MAGES..

“Yep! My wifey is playing hard to get!” Said Red.

MAGES. rolled her eyes. “Clearly you don’t get it.”

MAGES. and red reached Planeptune’s gate. As they walked through it, MAGES. Noticed that IF, Falcome and Purple Sister were talking amongst themselves. “Hello Wifeys!” Red called, waving to the group of girls.

“Yes. Hello.” Said MAGES..  Normally MAGES. would have stopped to chat with them more, but when she noticed that Red was making her way over to them, she took that as an opportunity to escape.

“Look! My other wifeys!” Said Red. “MAGES. we should-” Red began, but when she looked back at MAGES., she realized that the woman was walking away. “Wait for me!” She cried, running to catch up.

MAGES. rolled her eyes. “I thought I lost her.” Thought MAGES.. “Are you sure you want to leave them. You’ll have three wifeys to spoil you.” She said.

“That’s alright.” Said Red. “I’ll let them spoil me later. I want to spoil you now!” Red jogged forwards and was now walking backwards in front of MAGES.. “So… do you want me to carry the bag?” She asked.

“No need. This is a trifle.” Said MAGES..

“Do you want me to carry you? Princess style?” Asked Red.

“No need.” Said MAGES..

“Do you-” Red began.

“NO NEED!” MAGES. shouted.

Red was stunned by MAGES. sudden outburst. “I-I’m sorry.” She began.

“No.” Said MAGES. shaking her head. “I apologize for my outburst. It was unbecoming of me.”

Red and MAGES. continued their journey until they reached a small grove of trees. As they walked around the trees, the girls soon spotted a small cabin. “What’s this place?” Asked Red. “Is this our new home?”

“No.” MAGES. said, attempting to keep her temper in check. “Currently I’m working on a device that should drive monsters away from it. I was working on it back home, but didn’t get a chance to finish it. Now I have a chance to put the final touches on it.” Said MAGES..

“Neat!” Said Red.

The two girls were about to enter the cabin, but stopped when they spotted several dogoo approach. The creatures growled angrily at the two girls. “Don’t worry!” Said Red, summoning her toy hammer. “I’ll kill them.”

“I appreciate it, but it’s not necessary. If my device works, these dogoo should scamper off.” Said MAGES..

Red nodded as she followed MAGES. into the cabin. The cabin was small and it looked as though it had been abandoned many years ago. A large table was located in the middle of the room and it was filled with old junk. The other furniture in the cabin looked unusable as well. “IF told me about this cabin. She told me that she and Compa had to take refuge here once.”

“Really? Cool!” Said Red.

MAGES. made her way over to the table. After clearing a spot for her to work, she reached into her bag and pulled out the device she had been working on. The device was small and it looked cylindrical. Several speakers were embedded into the device as well. “Now then. I shall get to work. If you get bored, you may leave.” Said MAGES..

“I won’t get bored.” Said Red. “Besides. I have to protect you just incase something goes wrong!”

“You have my gratitude.” Said MAGES., as she got to work. “But I doubt anything will go wrong.” And with those words, MAGES. got to work. The first thing MAGES. did was flip a small switch located on the bottom of her device.

The moment MAGES. flipped that switch, the sounds of the dogoos outside increased. The creatures angrily smacked the door and walls of the cabin with their gelatinous bodies.

“Uh-oh.” Said Red, making her way over to a window and peering out. Red noticed several more dogoos making their way towards the cabin.

“Don’t worry.” Said Red, as she took out her tools and started working on the device in front of her. “This cabin should be strong enough to keep the dogoos away. As you can see, the device does the exact opposite of what it’s supposed to do. That’s why I asked IF if she knew of any places outside Planeptune that I could work in peace.”

“Oh. That’s smart.” Said Red.

MAGES. nodded. “I am aware.” Said MAGES. as she flipped the switch on the device once more. The dogoos outside settled down.

Red turned away from the window and watched as MAGES. started tinkering with her device. Every once in a while the girl would flip the switch on the device, leave it on for a few moments, before turning it back off.

After a few moments of this, MAGES. turned the device back on. “That should do it.” She said.

Red turned back towards the window and gasped. All she could see was an ocean of dogoo. “Whoa! MAGEY! There are so many dogoo outside!” The girl cried.

“Nonsense. I’m certain.” MAGES. began, but stopped talking when several dogoos leapt through the few remaining windows in the cabin. Glass was sent flying through the air as the creatures landed on the floor and started growling angrily at the two girls. “Perhaps you’re correct.” MAGES. said, as more dogoos started flooding into the cabin through the open windows.

“I got em’!” Red said, as she lifted her toy hammer and brought it down on several dogoo at the same time. The little creatures tried to scamper away, but Red was faster and managed to defeat them.

MAGES. turned her device off once more. “Try to hold them off. I think I know what went wrong.” Said MAGES., as she started tinkering with her device once more.

Red ran around the cabin killing the dogoo as fast as she could, but more and more of the creatures flooded into the cabin. Even though Red was normally upbeat about things, even she was starting to feel nervous.

“I better…” Red began, as she pulled out her phone.

MAGES. desperately tried to fix the problem she caused. She rerouted power on her device, changed the amplification of the noise going through the speakers. As she worked, she heard Red was speaking to someone. “Poor thing has lost her mind.” MAGES. thought. “If we get out of this alive. I shall reward her with a pat on the head. Maybe…”

It was at that moment MAGES. realized that the dogoo attack had lessened. “Red. You are truly skilled at fighting dogoo.” Said MAGES..

“Thanks, but I called in some help.” Said Red.

MAGES., for the first time, turned her attention from her device and looked at Red, who was pointing outside a nearby window. MAGES. turned towards the window. That’s where she spotted Purple Sister.

Purple Sister was cutting through the dogoo with amazing speed. Any of the dogoo who were trying to go through the nearby windows were shot before they could jump through.

“Excellent work.” Said MAGES., turning her attention back to her device. After adjusting a few more things, MAGES. turned her device back on. The dogoo roared loudly, but their roar was different from before. Instead of getting angry and attacking the cabin, instead they began fleeing from it.

MAGES. took a deep breath. “Thanks Red.” Said MAGES. “I owe you a pat on the head.”

***

The following morning MAGES. awoke early. After getting dressed and grabbing a few other items she planned on taking with her, MAGES. Opened the door of her hotel room. The girl wasn’t surprised to see Red standing on the other side of the door waiting for her. “Why didn’t you know girl named Red?” MAGES. asked.

“I didn’t want to wake my wifey.” Said Red, smiling gleefully.

MAGES. sighed deeply, before she reached up and patted Red on the head. “You are a very strange girl, but I’m done fighting you. You may refer to me as your wifey if you wish, but know this. I’m a very demanding wifey.”

“Demanding wifeys are as precious to me as my quiet wifeys.” Said Red, blushing.
 
MAGES. stepped out of her room and led the two girls to Planeptune’s gate. As they moved towards the gate, the two girls could see everyone was waiting for them. IF, Compa and Falcom.

“Sorry were late!” Said Red, running over to the girls. “Did any of you miss me?”

“Not really.” Said IF.

“I missed you.” Said Compa.

“Anyways… Histoire’s going to teleport us to the third Fairy Tower, right?” Asked Falcom. “Has anyone ever used it before? Is it safe?”

“It’s fine.” Said IF. “Is everyone ready?”

“Yes of course.” Said MAGES., hiding her face using her hands. “A mad magician is always ready!”  

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 29

 Falcom took a deep breath as she headed outside. The sun was shining brightly overhead and a warm breeze blew through her hair. Even though Falcom was grateful that Purple Heart gave her a room in the Basilicom, but apart of her felt as though she were getting lazy.

It wasn’t just the room that made Falcom feel like she was getting lazy. It was also the staff who brought her food and did her laundry. The staff even made her bed before Falcom even had a chance to do it herself.

“I’m not used to such lavish treatment.” Falcom told one of the staff members, as she nervously scratched the back of her head.

“It’s our pleasure to serve you.” The staff member said, smiling warmly at Falcom.

Falcom sighed deeply when she remembered those awkward conversations she had with the staff of the Basilicom, but now she was starting to feel a bit better about things. Falcom had agreed to join Neptune and Nepgear to train by fighting dragons, but she promised Purple Sister that she would spend a little time with her before she left.

“I think Purple Sister is taking on a few quests by herself though.” Falcom thought to herself. “I’ll meet up with her later today. First I have a very important mission to complete!” And with that thought, Falcom made her way deeper into the city.

Falcom walked from store to store hoping to find the thing she was searching for. After a while however, Falcom was starting to lose hope. “Huh… This city is pretty big. Hard to believe they wouldn’t have it.” The girl thought to herself.

Just as Falcom was considering making it herself, that’s when her eyes fell on the words ‘Planeptune Fishing Stop’!

Falcom’s eyes lit up with joy. “Yes! I knew they’d have fishing gear here in Planeptune.” Falcom thought, as she ran into the shop and bought everything she needed. Falcom bought herself two fishing poles, a bucket, a tackle box and everything else she would need to do some fishing.

“Do you know of any good spots to fish around here?” Falcom asked, the shop owner.

“There’s a pond to the south of Planeptune.” The owner said. “It’s not that far from the gate.”

“Thanks!” Falcom said. After Falcom finished paying for her stuff, she headed towards Planeptune’s gate.

Falcom noticed that the surrounding area around the gate was covered in monsters. The monsters ranged from dogoo, to dogoo man. There were other monsters as well, but they all looked pretty weak. “Huh… Should I kill some of these monsters before I go to the pond?” Falcom wondered to herself. Falcom fought with the idea, but changed her mind. “I’ll do some hunting later. I’m sure it’s fine.”

Falcom followed the fishing shop owners directions and soon found herself standing in front of a large pond. The pond’s water looked calm and the dock that was located near it looked fully intact. “Here we are!” Falcom said, barely able to contain her excitement.

Falcom placed her gear down before grabbing a pole. After getting it ready, she threw her line out into the water.

Like always, Falcom stood motionless as she watched the bobber on her fishing line float across the glistening water. “This is nice.” Falcom muttered, as a small smile appeared on her face.

Seconds slowly ticked by and then minutes. Half-an-hour later Falcom was still standing on the dock, fishing pole in hand, line still in the water. Even though nothing seemed to have changed, Falcom could tell something indeed had.

“Why does this feel so boring to me right now?” The girl wondered aloud. “I love fishing! I was so excited to get here and start fishing, but for some reason I feel incredibly bored. Nothings happening!”

Falcom took a deep breath as she glanced down at her fishing gear. “Why didn’t I bring any food or drinks? I’ll have to go back and get something. Also…” Falcom’s eyes turned to the second fishing pole that was lying on the ground. “Why did I buy two fishing poles? I mean there’s a chance Purple Sister might join me, but we didn’t make any plans to go fishing today.”

Falcom’s shoulders sagged. “I’m going home.” She breathed, as she reeled in her line. Falcom grabbed all of her stuff and started heading back to Planeptune. The walk didn’t take her long, but as she approached the gates of the city, she spotted IF and Purple Sister talking.

“Hey girls.” Falcom said, making her way over to the girls.

IF and Purple Sister turned. “Hi Falcom. Did you go fishing?” Purple Sister asked.

“Yeah, but I didn’t catch anything.” Said Falcom.

“That stinks.” Said IF. “Purple Sister and I were about to find some herbs. You want to join us?”

“Huh?” Falcom began. “No. I don’t want to get in-”

“Join us.” Purple Sister said, wrapping her hands around the hand Falcom was carrying the poles in. “Please?”

Falcom giggled. “Well I can’t say no to you. Let me find a place to stash my gear, okay?” Said Falcom, as she made her way over to the gate and gently sat it down. After that, the girl headed back over to where IF and Purple Sister were waiting. “Alright. I’m ready.” She said.

“Great. I know a place where we can pick some good herbs.” Said IF. IF led the girls over to a large patch of grass that was surrounded by several trees. “This is the place I like to gather from. The herbs themselves might be a little difficult to spot, but if you rummage around long enough, you’ll find what you need.”

“Okay.” Said Falcom, eager to start.

“Oh. One last thing. Compa told me this, but don’t pick too many herbs. Just grab the amount you need.”

“Okay.” Said Falcom, nodding. “How many do we need?”

“About ten pieces altogether.” Purple Sister said. “I’m getting them for a hospital and a doctor.”

“Oh. So this is pretty important, huh?” Asked Falcom.

“Yes. Very important.” Said Purple Sister.

Falcom, Purple Sister and IF fell to their knees and started running their hands through the grass. Every time they spotted an herb, they would call it out before they picked it. Soon they had at least five herbs picked, but still needed to collect five more.

“Can I tell you all something?” Purple Sister began.

“Of course you can.” Said Falcom.

“Go ahead.” Said IF.

Purple Sister took a deep breath. “You remember the day HachimaJin attacked? Well after everything settled down, my sister told me something that made me a little nervous.” Said Purple Sister.

“She did?” Asked Falcom, not looking up from her hunt for herbs.

“Yes.” Said Purple Sister. “She said that she’s a lot like me. She said that she feels like she’s missing something.”

“Oh yeah?” Said IF, pausing for a moment. “I feel like everyone’s missing something lately.” IF said, remembering all the new memories that she’s gained. The memories ranged from conversations she had with Neptune, Nepgear and Compa, to strange one’s taking place in areas IF couldn’t remember being in.

“Memories, right?” Falcom offered.

For a moment, IF wondered if she had spoken about memories a second ago, but quickly dismissed the thought.

“No. Well yes, but also no.” Said Purple Sister.

IF giggled. “Let me guess. She sat her pudding down and can’t remember where it is?”

“No.” Purple Sister said, shaking her head. “Well yes, but not that either. She just said that she feels like something’s missing.”

“Huh…” Both IF and Falcom said in unison. “In that case, it might be something more personal.” Said IF.

“Maybe try to talk to her.” Falcom suggested.

“That’s a good idea.” Said IF said.

“Yeah, but…” Purple Sister began. “I don’t know how big sis would feel if I pried into her business. We haven’t really known each other that long.”

“Are you kidding?” IF said, giggling. “You’re sisters! I know your memories are missing, but she knows you. I’m also sure she would feel great knowing that you’re worried about her.”

“Really?” Purple Sister asked.

“Really.” Said IF.

“Okay. I will.” Said Purple Sister, nodding. “Can I ask a favor? Could we keep this between just the three of us? I know keeping secrets isn’t right, but still…”

IF nodded. “Hey. I was just giving a friend a little advice. That’s it.” She said.

“No problem Purple Sister.” Said Falcom.

Once Falcom, Purple Sister and IF finished collecting all the herbs they stood and brushed themselves off. “Here you go.” Falcom said, handing the herbs she had collected over to Purple Sister.

“I hope this helps.” Said IF, handing over the herbs she had.

“Thank you both so much.” Purple Sister said, smiling and blushing heavily. “I hate to do this, but I need to hurry and complete my quest. Falcom? Can we still hangout later? I know you’re leaving tomorrow so I-”

“It’s okay.” Falcom said, cutting Purple Sister off. “Go ahead and finish your quest. I’m going back to the Basilicom. We’ll hangout when you get back.”

“Thanks!” Purple Sister said, turning to leave. Before Purple Sister could take a single step however, she noticed two figures making their way out of Planeptune’s gate.

“Hello Wifeys!” Red called, waving to the group of girls.

“Yes. Hello.” Said MAGES..

Red looked as though she wanted to talk to everyone, but when she noticed that MAGES. was walking towards a large group of trees, she turned and ran to catch up with her. “She seems annoyed.” IF muttered, noticing how upset MAGES. looked.  

“The never ending quest to find as many wifeys as possible.” Said Falcom.

Purple Sister blushed and hugged the herbs in her hand close to her chest as though they were a bouquet of flowers. “Red is really sweet. I’m happy to be her wifey.”

***

Falcom made her way back to the Basilicom. The moment she entered the building several staff members surrounded her. “Welcome home lady Falcom.” Said on the of the staffers. “May I take your stuff?”

Falcom opened her mouth to refuse, but quickly changed her mind. “It’s for one more day.” She thought. “Sure. Thank you.” Falcom said, handing her fishing gear over to the staff member. After that, Falcom headed to her room.

After kicking off her boots, Falcom collapsed onto her bed. “I’m so ready to take a nap.” She breathed.

Falcom wasn’t sure when it happened, but at some point she did fall asleep. The sound of someone lightly knocking on her door stirred the girl awake. “Hello? Come in.” She said.

The door to the room opened and Purple Sister poked her head into the room. “Hi Falcom. I’m back.” She said.

“Hey.” Falcom said, sitting up in bed and stretching her arms over her head. “Did you take care of the guild?” She asked.

“I did.” Said Purple Sister. “They offered me some credits, but I asked for them to donate it to Planeptune’s reconstruction fund. I would have been back a bit sooner, but I needed to do something before I came back home.”

“Aw. That’s sweet of you. You‘re such a thoughtful girl Purple Sister. I’m sure your sister is very proud of you. I know I am.” Falcom said, getting to her feet. “Well. Are you ready to hangout? We can do whatever you want.”

Purple Sister’s eyes lit up with joy. “Well… I was hoping we could get something to eat and maybe play some video games.”

“Sure!” Falcom said, patting her stomach. “I could eat.”

Purple Sister opened the door showing that she was holding a long thin box in her hands. “Great! I already have food for us.”

“Is that a pizza?” Falcom asked, excitedly.

“It is.” Said Purple Sister. “I’ve always wanted to try one since I saw a pizza shop on the way home.”

Falcom couldn’t help, but laugh. “Looks good Purple Sister. Let’s eat!”