Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 100

 Neptune woke up early that morning. The sun was shining brightly through the partially closed curtains and the sounds of birds chirping could be heard. Neptune’s plan to address her people in Planeptune had been put on hold, when she found out that Purple Sister had gone missing.

“I have no doubt Nepgear will get here today.” Neptune thought, as she sat up in bed and stretched her hands high over her head.

Neptune pulled the covers away from her body and swung her feet over the side of the bed. After slipping her shoes on, Neptune headed into the main part of the apartment. Like always, Blanc was awake and was busily preparing everyone’s breakfasts.

“Good morning!” Neptune said.

“Good morning Neptune. How’d you sleep?” Blanc asked, not looking up from the food she was preparing.

“Great! How’d you sleep? Rom and Ram keep you up all night?” Neptune asked.

Blanc shook her head. “No. They were pretty tired yesterday. They went to sleep without much fuss. Though I did have to carry Ram into the bedroom.”

“Aww! Ram and Rom are cute. They’re especially adorable when they’re unconscious.” Said Neptune.

Blanc giggled a bit. “I think they’re adorable no matter what.”

“Of course, of course.” Said Neptune. “I know how you feel though Blanc. I think Nepgear’s adorable no matter what too! She’s also really brainy! I can’t wait for you to meet her.”

Blanc was about to stir some of the miso soup she was heating up, but hesitated for a moment. “I think I’ve already met your sister. Haven’t I?” Blanc asked.

Neptune nodded. “Yeah. You have.” Said Neptune, a mischievous smile appeared on her face. “And you said she was the greatest little sister ever! You were constantly trying to get her to move to Lowee.”

“Really?” Blanc said, doubtfully. “Maybe I’ll try again. I’m sure I can get Nepgear to move to Lowee and start doing some work at my Basilicom.”

Neptune giggled. “Wait… You remember who you are?” Neptune asked.

“Yes and no.” Blanc said. “It’s strange. I know who I am, but my brain keeps rejecting the idea.”

“I see… Must be rough.” Neptune said.

Blanc shrugged her shoulders. “It’s not fun, but I can live with it for now.”

Neptune was about to say something else, when she felt a strange feeling in her chest. “Hey!” Neptune said, a large smile appeared on her face. Neptune didn’t hesitate as she ran to the front door and flung it open.

“Hi Neptune.” Noire said.

“Hello miss Neptune.” Uni said, folding her hands together in front of her.

“Noire! Uni!” Neptune cried, as tears welled up in the corners of her eyes. Neptune leapt at Noire and threw her arms around her friend’s neck.

“H-Hey! What are you doing?!” Noire cried.

“I’m sorry Noire! When I saw you I just wanted to give you a squeeze!” Neptune said, as she started crying.

“Well… It’s not like I missed you or anything.” Noire said, blushing and folding her arms in front of her chest.

“Tsundere.” Neptune said.

“Yeah. Whatever! Get off me!” Noire said, gently pushing Neptune away.

Noire and Uni entered the hotel room and glanced around. “Where’s Nepgear?” Uni asked, after a few moments of looking.

“Well we got separated.” Neptune said. “But it’s okay. She’ll be here soon enough.”

“Really? That’s good.” Said Uni.

“Hello girls!” Came a voice.

All eyes turned to the owner of the voice. Standing a few feet behind Noire was Vert. “Hello Vert. It’s been a while.” Said Noire.

“Yes it has. I’m so sorry I forgot about all of you.” Said Vert, as she entered the hotel. Vert’s eyes turned to Blanc. “Hello Blanc. It’s been a while.”

“I’ll have to take your word for it. I don’t have all my memories back yet.” Blanc said, turning back to the stove. “I’ll have to make more food now.”

“Don’t worry about that.” Noire said, waving her hand dismissively. “Uni and I already had breakfast.”

“I ate too.” Said Vert.

“And I’m starving! When’s breakfast again?” Neptune asked, pouting.

Blanc sighed deeply. “Quiet Neptune.”

Neptune giggled. She was about to close the hotel door, when she felt that strange feeling again. This time Neptune knew exactly who had arrived.

“WAIT!” Nepgear cried, from down the hallway.

Moments later Nepgear appeared in front of Neptune. Both sisters locked eyes and for a moment they didn’t say anything. Suddenly Nepgear leapt at Neptune and threw her arms around her sister.

“NEPTUNE!” Nepgear cried, as tears trickled down her cheeks.

“Oh Nepgear!” Neptune cried, as tears flowed down her cheeks as well.

Both sisters embraced one another and held each other close. More and more tears drained down their cheeks. “I missed you Neptune! I was so lonely without you!” Nepgear sobbed.

“I-I missed you too Nepgear!” Neptune cried.

Cyberconnect2 poked her head into the hotel room. “Hello. I’m Cyberconnect2. Is it okay if I come in?”

“Of course.” Blanc said. “Just ignore the blubbering sisters.”

Cyberconnect2 smiled warmly as she entered the hotel room and closed the door behind her. Everyone in the room watched as Neptune and Nepgear continued to hug and sob. When the girls finally settled down, they sat down at a large table while Blanc served breakfast.

Rom and Ram entered the room. “Hi everyone!” Ram said, while Rom hid behind her sisters back.

“Oh my!” Vert cried, jumping to her feet. “You two are darling! How would you like to be my little sisters?” Vert asked, folding her hands together.

“Vert? Back off.” Blanc warned, but Vert didn’t hear her.

“You two are so adorable! I could just eat you up!” Vert said, holding out her arms to the girls as though she were about to embrace them.

“Anyways…” Nepgear said, fidgeting nervously in her seat. “It’s nice to see everyone again. Uni? How have you been?”

“Great.” Uni said. “Now that I remember everything. It’s weird though. I wasn’t surprised that I was Black Sister.”

“Same here.” Nepgear admitted.

“Well we’ve been goddesses for a while. Shouldn’t really surprise us.” Noire said.

“True.” Said Vert.

“Now that were altogether. We should probably go over everything that’s happened to us thus far.” Said Noire.

“Man… I was hoping Noire would forget that she was a businessy stiffy.” Neptune grumbled.

“No chance Neptune.” Noire said. “Anyways. I’ve kept in contact with everyone we met in Lastation. They’re all working hard on getting stronger and they’re planning on fighting with us if we need their help.”

“My memories tell me that everyone we met in Planeptune are doing the same thing.” Nepgear said. “Purple Sister worked really hard with everyone too.”

“No surprises there. She’s a good kid.” Neptune said. Neptune’s words caused Nepgear to blush.

“Same here.” Said Vert, holding up her right hand. “I worked with everyone as well.”

“That’s good.” Said Blanc, who took a seat between her sisters. “So Nepgear? If it’s not too much trouble, could you tell us what happened to you?”

“Of course.” Nepgear said, clearing her throat. “Well…”

Nepgear explained everything that happened to her. She told everyone how she had broken her arm. How Cyberconnect2 had saved her and traveled with her to the first Fairy Tower. “And that’s what happened.” Nepgear explained.

“Whoa! White Heart must be tough!” Ram said.

“Seriously tough. I even have my defense maxed out. I couldn’t believe she could still break my arm.” Nepgear said.

“Unacceptable!” Neptune cried, angrily. “Breaking my Nepgear’s cute little arm! I won’t forgive her!”

Blanc took a deep breath. “Nepgear. Even though I’m not currently White Heart. Please accept my apologies.” Blanc said, bowing a little.

“Sis! It’s not your fault! It’s the other dummies fault!” Said Ram.

“That’s right.” Rom said.

“She’s right.” Nepgear said, holding up her hands. “White Heart is missing her human side. That’s you Blanc. Same goes for the White Sisters as well. They need to have their human forms returned.”

“Yeah I don’t think so.” Ram said, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “I’m no goddess.”

“Yeah.” Said Rom, nodding.

Blanc looked at her sisters. “They can’t accept it simply because were still missing our memories.”

“Don’t worry. We should be able to finish this quest fast since we can all fly.” Said Neptune. “Well… Everyone except for Cyberconnect2, Blanc, Rom and Ram I mean.”

“Yeah. Sorry.” Cyberconnect2 said.

“That’s alright.” Blanc said. “I was giving it some thought. It might be best if Rom and Ram and I stay behind. We’ll only end up slowing the rest of you down. Once the final two Fairy Tower’s are activated, we’ll regain ourselves and meet up with you.”

“Sounds good to me.” Said Neptune.

“Oh!” Vert said, suddenly remembering something. Vert reached into her pocket and removed a USB memory stick from it. “Histoire actually gave me a USB memory stick as well.” Vert had a look of sadness appear on her face. “However… Neptune? I’m not comfortable using it without your-”

“YAHOO!” Neptune said, throwing her arms into the air.

“Yes! This is excellent!” Nepgear said, giggling.

“Huh?” Vert said, surprised. “You two aren’t upset that you won’t be able to personally activate all the Fairy Tower’s yourselves?”

“Huh? Heck no!” Neptune said, giggling. “I want to get this quest over with! I want to go home, sit in my Basilicom and eat pudding until I explode!”

“Same here.” Nepgear said. “Well not exactly the same thing, but I’m eager to go back home as well.”

“Oh.” Vert said, smiling warmly at the girls. “I understand.”

“I have an idea.” Said Blanc. “Vert? You and a few other goddesses should activate the Fairy Tower that we know about. After that, Histoire will send the information to Nepgear and she and Neptune can activate the final Fairy Tower. How does that sound?” Blanc offered.

“I don’t have a problem with that.” Said Vert, happily.

“Huh? Don’t you want to activate a Fairy Tower Noire?” Neptune asked.

“Don’t push your work off onto me Neptune. Do it yourself.” Noire said.

Neptune sighed deeply. “Fine! I’ll be the hero and activate the final Fairy Tower.” Neptune grumbled. “Anyways. Nepgear? I love you!”

“Huh?” Nepgear said, taken by surprise. “I love you too Neptune.”

Neptune suddenly jumped to her feet. “Alright everyone! Before we go, we need to make a video for everyone in our countries. After that, we’ll activate the final Fairy Towers. Okay?”

“Sounds good to me.” Said Noire. “But you should leave the video to a professional.”

“I am.” Neptune said, as she took out Nepgear‘s N-Gear and handed the device over to her sister. “Nepgear? Do you mind.”

“Nope!” Said Nepgear, taking the N-Gear.

“Hey!” Noire said, but everyone ignored her.

***

After the girls made the video, Nepgear spliced everything together so it looked good. The video the girls made was simple. Neptune and Nepgear appeared on screen first, explained everything that was happening and then left. After that Noire and Uni entered the scene, Vert and finally Blanc, Rom and Ram. After that the girls sent the video to everyone they knew.

“There. I know our friends will upload the video to the internet and make it trend in all our countries.” Said Nepgear.

“Yeah. I’m going to be famous!” Neptune said, blushing heavily.

“You’re already famous, doofus!” Ram said. “You’re a goddess!”

“Oh yeah! I almost forgot.” Neptune said, matter-of-factly.

Nepgear sighed deeply. “Goodness sister. I’m starting to think whoever sealed away your memories was just wasting their time.”

“Alright. I think it’s time we got going.” Vert said. “Who’s coming with me?”

“I will.” Said Noire.

“Me too!” Said Uni.

Noire shook her head. “That’s alright Uni. I want you to stay here.”

“Huh?” Uni said, surprised. “But big sis. I can-”

“You can help. I know.” Noire said, patting Uni on the head. “But I want you to spend some time with Nepgear and go with her. Okay? You two have a lot to catch up on, right?”

“That’s true.” Uni said, giggling and blushing.

Nepgear giggled as well, before her eyes turned to Cyberconnect2. “Sorry Cyberconnect2. Were not trying to leave you out or anything.”

“Oh please. I don’t feel left out at all.” Cyberconnect2 said, as she summoned her daggers. “Besides! I’m going to fight alongside all of you at the end of this! Right?”

“Right!” Nepgear said.

“Alright then. We better get going Noire.” Vert said, as she and Noire transformed into their goddess forms. “We’ll be right back.” Said Green Heart.

“Take care everyone.” Said Black Heart.

“See you!” Neptune said, waving happily as the goddess left the hotel.

“Well. Now it’s just a matter of time.” Said Nepgear, looking down at the screen of her N-Gear. “Were almost done with this quest.”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 99

 Noire sighed deeply as she glanced down at her cellphone’s screen. Recently she heard that Lady Purple Heart and Lady Purple Sister had gone missing. She was concerned of course, but knew that Neptune and Nepgear were close with the goddesses. After sending them a text message she had received a notice saying that everyone was okay.

“That’s good to hear. Seriously, what’s going on in Planeptune?” Noire wondered, aloud.

Noire had been standing in the middle of a large field fighting monsters. Her sister, Uni, was still working with Kei. Even though Noire missed working with Uni, the girls still found time to hunt monsters together.

Noire took a deep breath, as she turned her eyes skyward. “I can’t believe how long it’s been since I’ve seen Neptune and Nepgear. I wonder how everything’s going.” Noire said. After the girls had parted ways, Noire and Uni’s memories had slowly returned and they knew who they had to thank for that.

Noire stretched her hands over her head and began stretching out her back. “Well that was a nice break. Time to get back to work.” Noire thought. Noire was about to slide her phone back into her pocket, when she got another message from Neptune. “Another message? Not like I’m happy about it, but I’ll answer it.” Noire muttered, under her breath.

Noire glanced down at the message. Her eyes suddenly went wide and her lower jaw dropped. “What the…” Noire muttered. The message was only four words in length, but it was impossible to believe.

“Are you Black Heart?” Noire breathed. Noire’s eyes turned to the person who sent her that message. “Neptune? What are you asking?”

Noire closed her eyes tightly and took several deep breaths. It was at that moment Noire started to hear the sound of water. As though there was a leak in the sky. Opening her eyes, Noire saw that she was standing in a strange black void.

“Where am I?” Noire asked.

“Who’s there?” Came a voice.

Noire turned her eyes towards the place where she heard the voice. “Who’s there?” Noire demanded.

“I don’t have time for this!” The voice cried.

Noire clenched her hands into tight fists and started moving forwards. As she walked, she spotted the outlining of a figure. Soon that figure materialized into Lady Black Heart. “Lady Black Heart?” Noire cried.

Lady Black Heart was looking frantically around her. She was rubbing her hands anxiously together. “I don’t have time! I have to do paperwork, but I really need to hunt monsters… Where Black Sister?” Lady Black Heart cried. “She’s been keeping me focused today!”

Noire started to feel annoyed. Moving swiftly forwards Noire cupped Lady Black Heart’s face in her hands. “What are you talking about? You’re not like this!” Noire said, annoyed.

“Wh-What are you doing?” Lady Black Heart stammered.

Noire didn’t say anything at first. Instead she continued to peer into Lady Black Heart’s eyes. She watched as her pupils darted back and forth in her head, but soon they stopped moving and focused on Noire.

“There. Feeling better?” Noire asked.

“No. I’m scared.” Lady Black Heart said.

“Why? What are you missing?” Noire asked.

Lady Black Heart licked her lips nervously. “I’m afraid. I’m missing my bravery I guess.” Lady Black Heart said. “I’m afraid that I won’t have enough time to finish something, so I move onto something else.”

“And because of that, you never finish anything. Right?” Noire said.

“Yeah.” Lady Black Heart said, tears welled up in the corners of her eyes.

“What about your sister?” Noire asked.

“I’m proud of her. I love her, but I’m scared of her.” Said Lady Black Heart.

Noire furrowed her brow. “Why? What scares you about her?”

“She’s smart! She’s so smart and strong! What if she becomes like me? Someone who can’t finish anything! Someone who’s always messing up?” Lady Black Heart said.

Noire smiled warmly at the goddess. “It’s okay. Uni… I mean Lady Black Sister isn’t like that. She’s like you. She’s just missing something.”

“What else am I missing though?” Lady Black Heart asked.

“Your humanity. In other words. Me.” Noire said.

Noire opened her eyes. She was no longer standing on the ground. Now she was hovering hundreds of feet into the air, but she wasn’t scared. Noire glanced down at her body. She was Lady Black Heart again. “I thought so. I’m the goddess of Lastation.” Black Heart said, smiling proudly.

***

Uni was busying herself around Kei’s office. Normally she would have been outside collecting monster parts to sell, but today she was helping Kei organize the office more. Since Uni started working for Kei, the girls had seen an increase in business. Now Kei was able to buy new furniture.

“Everything’s look nice, huh?” Uni asked.

“Efficiency is my goal.” Said Kei.

“Right.” Said Uni, nodding her head several times.

“By the way. Did you receive a follow up message from your friend about Lady Purple Heart and Purple Sister?” Kei asked.

“Yeah. Neptune told me that they’re both fine.” Said Uni. “I’m not sure how Neptune would know or why she had Nepgear’s N-Gear, but apparently everything’s fine.” Said Uni. “Seriously. I worry about those two. Sometimes I think I should have gone with them just so I could keep them in line.”

“This might sound selfish, but I’m glad you didn’t. I couldn’t have done all of this without you.” Said Kei.

Uni’s eyes went wide and her cheeks grew bright red. Suddenly Uni closed her eyes. “Of course not! You really need me around.” Uni said.

Kei smiled mischievously. “Of course.” She said.  Kei was about to say something else, when something caught her eye. Looking up the girl spotted Lady Black Sister had appeared outside. The goddess briskly walked through the door.

“I need help!” Lady Black Sister cried.

“Lady Black Sister. So nice to see you again.” Said Kei. “How can I help you today?”

Uni stopped what she was doing and made her way to a small counter where some hot tea had already been prepared. After pouring some into a teacup, she made her way over to Black Sister and held out the cup. “Here you go.” Uni said.

“Thanks Uni, but I don’t have time to drink tea!” Black Sister said, taking the teacup from Uni anyways. “I have to impress my sister!”

“Well we-” Kei began, but Uni cut her off.

“It’s weird.” Uni said, furrowing her brows. “This is so weird. Freaky.”

“Uni!” Key said, stunned by Uni’s rudeness. Uni was about to say more, but stopped when she noticed that both Uni and Black Sister’s bodies were now glowing.

“Where am I?” Uni wondered. The girl was standing in a black void and the sound of water dripping from somewhere could be heard. “This isn’t good…”

“Where the hell am I? This isn’t good!” Came the voice of Black Sister.

Uni started running forwards. Soon she found Black Sister standing before her. “You were brought here too?” Uni asked. “It makes sense.”

“How does this make sense? Why is this happening to me? I need to get back to the Basilicom and make my big sister love me!” Black Sister said, crossing her arms angrily in front of her chest.

“I get it. Believe me.” Uni said. “I’ve always felt that way with my sister too.” Uni took a deep breath. “Sometimes it felt like I couldn’t possibly do anything right. At a certain point, I kind of gave up on that.”

“Well I’m not a quitter!” Black Sister said.

Uni shook her head. “Don’t get the wrong idea. I still want my sister to love me. I want her to pat my head when I do a good job, but I can’t let that be my only purpose in life.” Uni looked into Black Sister’s eyes. “What are you missing?” She asked.

“My sisters love! Duh!” Black Sister said.

Uni shook her head. “No. That’s not it. What are you really missing?”

Black Sister narrowed her eyes at Uni, but realized that Uni was right. She was missing something else. Something she really needed. “My confidence I guess. If big sister doesn’t love me or praise me. What’s the point to all this?”

“That’s right.” Uni said, nodding. “And guess what? Our sister does love us. She does need us and she will pat you on the head when you do good! I promise you that.” Uni said, a large smile appeared on her lips.

Black Sister closed her eyes as tears began trickling down her cheeks. “Are you sure? How do you know?”

“I know because you’re me and I know our big sister very well.” Said Uni.

Uni took a deep breath. She was no longer standing in Kei’s office. She was now floating hundreds of feet over Lastation. Not only that, but she had also regained her goddess form. She was now Lady Black Sister.

“Black Sister!” Black Heart cried, as she flew up to her sister.

Black Sister giggled. “I remember everything. I’m Black Sister. The CPU candidate of Lastation and Black Heart’s little sister.”

“That’s right. I knew you’d figure it out.” Black Heart said, as she reached out and patted Black Sister on the head.

Black Sister giggled. “Thanks sister.”

“Anyways. I think it’s time we caught up to Neptune and Nepgear. They’re going to need our help to finish this thing.” Said Black Heart.

“Right.” Black Sister said, before she turned her eyes towards the city below. “I actually think I need to talk to Kei before I leave. She’s probably freaking out right now.”

“Can Kei even freak out?” Black Heart asked.

Black Sister thought about this for a moment. “I’m not sure.” She admitted.

***

Vert was looking worriedly down at her cellphone. It wasn’t the news that Lady Purple Heart and Lady Purple Sister had gone missing that worried her. It was the follow up message that Neptune had sent that scared her so much.

“What’s wrong with Vert, nyu?” Broccoli asked.

“Not sure.” Said 5pb.. “I mean according to Neptune, Lady Purple Heart and Lady Purple Sister are fine. So what’s going on?”

“Don’t know.” Said Marvy.

Vert slowly shook her head from side-to-side, but as she did this more memories poured into her mind. Now she was nodding her head. “Ladies?” Vert began, finally breaking her own silence. “Don’t freak out or anything, but I think something’s about to happen.”

“What?” 5pb. asked.

Vert looked up, but saw that she was no longer standing near the Fairy Tower fighting alongside her friends. Now she was standing in a black void. “Where am I?” Vert wondered, aloud.

“Over here.” Came a voice.

Vert followed the voice until she found Lady Green Heart. Lady Green Heart was sitting on her knees looking down at her empty hands. “One minute I was playing a game. The next moment I’m here. I know it’s not here, but if you see a controller, television and game console around here, please let me know.”

“I will.” Vert said, swallowing hard. “Can I ask you a weird question?” Lady Green Heart nodded. “What are you missing? I mean besides the obvious.”

Lady Green Heart finally looked up at Vert. “If I had to guess. It would be my ability to stop playing games.”

“That’s true.” Said Vert.

“It’s a strange feeling. Like I’m going to miss out on something, or not be able to accomplish beating a game. I’m afraid of that happening, so maybe it’s bravery that I’m missing?” Asked Vert.

“It could be.” Said Vert, taking a few steps towards Lady Green Heart. “You’re also missing me, right?”

“You?” Lady Green Heart said.

Vert nodded. “Yes. The truth is. I’m you.” Vert took a deep breath. “I love playing games, but even I know there are times when you should put them away and focus on more important things.”

“I know.” Said Lady Green Heart. “Which is funny considering the fact that I couldn’t put the games away.”

Vert giggled as she reached down and took Lady Green Heart by the hands. “Up we go.” Vert said, helping the goddess to her feet.

Once Lady Green Heart was standing, both girls looked into each others eyes. “I think it’s time to go.” Vert said.

Lady Green Heart nodded. “Yeah. You don’t have to, but I’m really close to finishing this one RPG.”

Vert giggled once more. “I’ll finish it.” She said.

Vert opened her eyes and saw that she was flying high in the air. “That’s strange.” The girl said, looking down at her body. Even before Vert looked down she knew she had regained her goddess form. “I’m Lady Green Heart again.” Green Heart thought to herself.

“That was amazing!” Marvy said, as Green Heart landed on the soft ground in front of her.

“Thank you.” Green Heart said. “It turns out that I’m Lady Green Heart.”

“That’s right, nyu.” Broccoli said.

Lady Green Heart turned her eyes towards Broccoli. “That’s right. You didn’t lose your memories, correct? So you knew who I was the entire time? Correct?”

Broccoli nodded. “That’s correct, nyu.” The small girl said. “I’m sorry I couldn’t say sooner, nyu. I didn’t have a choice, nyu.”

Green Heart shook her head. “It’s alright Broccoli. What matters is that I’ve regained my memories and I’m a goddess again.”

“So now what?” 5pb. asked. “Does that mean Neptune and Nepgear are finished activating all the Fairy Towers.”

“No.” Came the voice of Histoire.

All eyes turned to Histoire’s holographic image. “How many more are left?” Asked Green Heart.

“There are only two Fairy Tower’s remaining,. All, except for White Heart and her sisters have regained their humanity.”

“So all we have to do is remind them of who they are. Right?” Marvy asked.

“No.” Said Histoire. “That can only happen once the last two Fairy Tower’s are activated.” Histoire closed her eyes for a moment as she started searching for data. “If I had to hypothesize. I would say that everyone’s memories were restricted to their own land. For instance, Vert’s memories were sealed away in Leanbox, but once the Fairy Towers in Leanbox were restored, her memories could technically be restored.”

“So I could have become a goddess much sooner?” Asked Vert.

“I don’t believe so. Memories were restored, but I also think the amount of Fairy Tower’s remaining also played a major factor in it. Now that only two remain and all your memories have been restored, that’s what allowed you to remember who you really were and restore your goddess form.” Histoire said.

“I see.” Said Green Heart, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “The only thing left to do is help Neptune and Nepgear activate the last two Fairy Towers.”

“Yes.” Said Histoire. “Please take this.” A small panel on the Fairy Tower opened and a USB memory stick was ejected from the machine.

“This is…” Green Heart began, taking the memory stick from the Fairy Tower.

“That’s correct. It’s the same type of USB memory stick that Neptune has been using to activate the Fairy Towers. Please take this to Lowee and help them finish their quest.” Histoire said.

Green Heart looked down at the USB memory stick she held between her thumb and index finger. “I know were in a hurry, but this doesn’t seem very fair to them.” Said Green Heart.

“I understand how you feel, but I promise you, Neptune and Nepgear would be delighted to hear that they didn’t have to travel anymore. This is for the world’s sake as well.” Said Histoire.

“The world’s sake?” Marvy said.

“What do you mean?” Asked 5pb..

Histoire swallowed hard. “I’m starting to remember what happened. The last moments before the original Histoire was sealed away.”

Green Heart watched as Histoire’s face twisted in horror. The holographic girl was remembering something incredibly terrible. “What happened Histoire? Talk to us.” Green Heart said, concerned.

Histoire nodded. “The one who sealed everyone’s memories and separated the goddesses from their human forms. The one who sealed the original Histoire away. It was a goddess alright. A very old one.”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 98

 “P-Please big sister…” Purple Sister cried, on the news. “Please come back to me… If someone took you… Please give her back… I can’t do this anymore without you big sister!”  

Cyberconnect2 sighed deeply. She felt her eyes start to burn and a lump formed in her throat. “Geeze! This little one is making me cry!” Cyberconnect2 dabbed her eyes. Just when Cyberconnect2 was about to turn to Nepgear, she noticed something strange happening to Purple Sister.

Purple Sister’s eyes started to grow wider. Her body started to shine. The person holding the news camera quickly backed away and so did the people around her. “Uh-oh! What’s going on?!” Cyberconnect2 cried.

Cyberconnect2 turned to Nepgear and gasped. Nepgear was also going through the same thing that Purple Sister was going through. Her eyes were wide as well and her body glowed an otherworldly glow. “NEPGEAR!?” Cyberconnect2 cried, as she jumped to her feet. “NEPGEAR?! WHAT’S HAPPENING?”

***

“Oh goodness… Where am I?” Nepgear wondered. One moment Nepgear was sitting on a bed in a hotel room with Cyberconnect2 and the next moment she was standing in a black void. The sound of water trickling could be heard in the distance.

“Why?” A voice cried out. “Why is this happening?”

Even though Nepgear couldn’t see who owned the voice, she knew exactly who was talking. “Purple Sister?” Nepgear breathed.

Purple Sister suddenly appeared in front of her. The CPU Candidate was sitting on her knees. Her face was buried in her hands and she was sobbing uncontrollably. “Who’s there?” Purple Sister asked, her body trembled with fear.

“It’s me. Nepgear. Remember?” Nepgear asked.

Purple Sister lowered her hands and looked hard at Nepgear. “It’s you… I missed you.”

“I missed you too.” Said Nepgear, taking several steps towards Purple Sister. “How’s everyone doing? Falcom? IF? Compa? Red? MAGES.?”

“Good.” Purple Sister said, her voice shook in her throat. “Though… I’m sure they’re more worried about my sister. I know I am.”

Nepgear giggled. “I know how you feel. I was recently separated from my sister too. I miss her so much, but you know what? I have to keep moving forward.” Said Nepgear, who was now standing over Purple Sister.

Purple Sister looked up at Nepgear, who offered the girl a hand. Purple Sister hesitated for a few moments, before she took Nepgear’s hand and let her be pulled to her feet. “Are you okay now?” Nepgear asked.

Purple Sister shook her head. “No.”

“That’s okay.” Nepgear said, hugging Purple Sister close to her. “It’s okay not to be okay, but I want to help you.”

“How?” Purple Sister asked.

“Tell me Purple Sister. What’s missing?” Nepgear asked.

Purple Sister hesitated for a moment. “My sister.” Purple Sister said.

“Well yes, but that’s not what I’m asking. What are you missing?” Nepgear asked.

Purple Sister didn’t have to think about her answer. “My memory. It was stolen from me.”

“Do you want it back?” Nepgear asked. Purple Sister nodded. “Good. Purple Sister? I didn’t steal your memory, but I have it. All of it. I remember everything now.”

“You do?” Purple Sister asked, looking into Nepgear’s eyes. Purple Sister didn’t see a thief in Nepgear’s eyes, instead she saw herself. Purple Sister’s eyes went wide, before they slid shut. “Can you do me a favor?”

“Anything.” Said Nepgear.

“Tell our sister… I love you.” Purple Sister said.

Nepgear closed her eyes tightly. “Of course I will! Everyday!”

When Nepgear opened her eyes, she quickly saw that she wasn’t inside a hotel room. Now she was standing outside, a large crowd had formed around her. “Nepgear?” Cyberconnect2 said.

Nepgear glanced up and smiled warmly at her friend. “Well in this form my name is Purple Sister.”

Cyberconnect2 slowly shook her head. “I can’t believe it. You’re the CPU candidate?” She asked.

Purple Sister giggled. “Yeah. It’s a long story.” Purple Heart glanced around at the people who surrounded her. She had no idea how she managed to get outside. “Sorry for the trouble everyone. My name is Purple Sister. I come from Planeptune, but I promise I’m not here to cause any trouble.”

Cyberconnect2 had made her way over to Purple Sister. “Don’t worry everyone. I’ll keep an eye on her.” Cyberconnect2 took Purple Sister by the hand and led her back into the hotel. As the girls made their way back to their room, Purple Sister changed back into her human form.

“I’m sorry about that.” Nepgear said, blushing heavily. “I honestly hope no one tells Lady White Heart about this. No doubt she’ll get really angry and try to finish me off.”

“Yeah. Don’t worry about it.” Cyberconnect2 said, despite the fact that she had no idea if people would tell Lady White Heart or not. Once the girls were back inside their room, Nepgear took a seat on her bed and sighed deeply.

“How did I get outside?” Nepgear asked.

“You… You flew out.” Said Cyberconnect2. “I tried to stop you, but you opened the window and flew out of it.”

“Tried to stop me? I didn’t hurt you did I?” Nepgear asked.

Cyberconnect2 giggled and shook her head. “Nope. You actually patted me on the shoulder and told me that everything was going to be okay.”

“Really?” Nepgear said, surprised. “I don’t remember that at all.”

“Really.” Said Cyberconnect2. “And I’m sure you were right about that. Even if you don’t remember saying it.”

Nepgear watched as her friend took a seat on the bed across from her. “Anyways… What do you remember?”

“Everything.” Nepgear said. Nepgear took her time and explained everything to Cyberconnect2, when she was finished Cyberconnect2 wore a strange look on her face. “That’s amazing.”

“Yeah.” Nepgear said, looking down at her hands. “Not only do I remember everything that led up to me being separated from my Goddess form, but I also remember everything my Goddess form did when she acted on her own. The time I spent with Falcom and Purple Heart. It’s all right here…” Nepgear pointed at her head.

“That’s amazing.” Cyberconnect2 said. “Are you feeling okay? You’re not sick, or in pain are you?”

Nepgear shook her head. “No. I’m okay.” Nepgear said, smiling.

Cyberconnect2 nodded her head several times before she suddenly looked at Nepgear suspiciously. “You’re not just saying that to be tough, are you?”

Nepgear couldn’t help, but giggle. “No! No… I mean it. I’m fine.”

“That’s good.” Cyberconnect2 said, taking a deep breath. “Well… We should get some rest okay and leave early tomorrow.”

“Good idea.” Said Nepgear, as she began pulling off her shoes.

Cyberconnect2 did the same thing, but hesitated before she slid her left shoe off her foot. “Nepgear? Listen…”

“Nope.” Nepgear said, shaking her head. “Were in this until the very end, okay? No way I’m flying off without you!”

Cyberconnect2 giggled and nodded. “Okay. It’s up to you.”

***

“Holy Crap!” Neptune said, a look of shock could be seen on her face. Neptune had been watching television for the last few hours, but quickly realized something incredible. Something she would remember for years to come.

“What is it?” Rom asked, nervously.

The room Neptune, Blanc, Rom and Ram shared was enormous. There were two bedrooms that had two beds located in them. Each room had their own bathroom. The living area was enormous as well and so was the adjacent kitchen. The television was big as well.

“Look! This TV has a game console installed in it.” Said Neptune, excitedly.

“That’s what surprises you?” Blanc said. “Aren’t you a little worried that White Heart might find out that you’re here in Lowee City? Her Basilicom is here.”

“I’m fine. Remember? I’m a goddess too now.” Said Neptune.

“Which is why you should be worried. If Lady White Heart even thinks that you’re trying to attack her city, she’ll come for you.” Blanc warned.

“Bah. I’m tough.” Said Neptune, waving her hand dismissively.

Blanc wasn’t one-hundred percent sure why, but for some reason what Neptune said bothered her. “Lady White Heart is a lot stronger…” Blanc began, but decided to drop it. “Doesn’t matter.” The girl breathed.

“Whoa! Look at that!” Ram said.

Blanc, who had been working in the kitchen for several moments, looked over the counter at the television. She saw the words ‘Purple Heart Missing’, displayed on the screen. “What’s going on?” Blanc asked, walking up to Neptune who was sitting on a large couch.

“They’re talking about Lady Purple Heart going missing.” Rom squeaked.

“But isn’t Neptune Lady Purple Heart?” Ram asked. “Those dummies in Planeptune are dummies!”

“Hey!” Neptune said, annoyed. “They obviously don’t know where I am.” Just as Neptune finished speaking, a special alert appeared on the screen.

“This just in. Lady Purple Sister has gone missing as well. Here is a video that was taken from inside the Basilicom.” A reporter said. A video of Lady Purple Sister appeared on the screen. At first nothing seemed strange about it, but suddenly her body started to glow brightly and then she disappeared. “Authorities are scrambling to uncover the cause of this sudden disappearance, but-.”

Neptune muted the television. “Did you see that? Nepgear must have remembered who she was! She’s a CPU again!” The girl said, excitedly. “Too bad everyone thinks we just disappeared though.”

Blanc took a deep breath. “This is a problem.” Blanc crossed her arms in front of her chest and thought for a few moments. “Neptune? I have an idea.”

“Ooh! What is it?” Neptune asked.

“How would you feel if I took that USB memory stick and completed this mission for you?” Asked Blanc.

“Huh?” Neptune said, surprised.

“Hear me out.” Blanc said. “I didn’t tell you this before, but I had a small conversation with Histoire. She told me that the USB memory stick would work for anyone, but she selected you to complete this mission. I could complete this mission for you. All I ask is you take my sisters to Planeptune and look after them.”

“No!” Rom cried.

“No way!” Ram said.

“Nopers!” Neptune said, getting to her feet.

“Now hold on.” Blanc said, holding up her hands. “The only reason I’m suggesting this, is because Planeptune is worried about their goddess. That’s all.”

“I hear you, but I can’t leave now! Not when were so close to finishing this quest. Besides, I have an idea.” Neptune said, as she pulled out Nepgear’s N-Gear. “We’ll make a video using this and send it to IF and Compa! They’ll make sure people in Planeptune see this.”

Blanc opened her mouth to protest, but changed her mind. “That might actually work. Are you sure?”

“Yep! No way I’m quitting!” Neptune said, giggling. Neptune yelped when she felt the N-Gear start to shake.

“What is it?!” Rom asked.

“Messages from friends.” Neptune said, giggling.

“Geesh dummy! Stop scaring us!” Ram said, tears had formed in the corners of both her and Rom’s eyes.

“Sorry about that.” Neptune said. Neptune looked down at the messages she had been sent. “Yep. Lots of worried peeps! Don’t worry! I’ll set them all straight!” Neptune said, as she began  pounding information into the N-Gear.  

Blanc turned back to the kitchen. “I’ll finish dinner. Girls? Leave auntie Neptune alone.”

“Fine.” Rom and Ram said, in unison.

“Oh. Neptune? Do you think your sister will fly here now?” Blanc asked.

“Nopers.” Said Neptune. “No way my baby sister abandons a friend.” Said Neptune, not taking her eyes off the N-Gear’s screen.

Blanc smiled. “I might not remember Nepgear, but I like her.”

“Nepgear’s the best!” Neptune said. “I guess I’ll have to keep her.”

***

Lady White Heart was incredibly angry. Her hands were shaking by her sides and her jaw was clenched. “Is that all you have to report to me?” Lady White Heart demanded, glancing over her shoulder at the Lowee Guard.

“Yes ma’am.” The guard said.

“Listen up.” Lady White Heart breathed. “I know you’re just doing your job, but when it comes to those stupid bitches! I mean… Neptune and Nepgear, I want you to speak to Financier. Understood?”

“Yes goddess.” The guard said, saluting. “I’m sorry for upsetting you.”

“Please! I’m always pissed.” White Heart said. “You should leave now.”

“Right.” The guard said.

Lady White Heart waited until the man left, before she grabbed the sides of her head and roared in rage. “WHO DO THOSE BITCHES THINK THEY ARE!? INVADING MY LAND! TURNING INTO GODDESSES!? SCREW THEM ALL!” The girl screamed.

Lady White Heart’s voice echoed and reverberated off the walls. She balled her hands into tight fists and struck the walls several times until large holes had formed in them. After each punch, Lady White Heart started feeling a bit calmer.

“It’s okay. It’s okay!” Lady White Heart breathed. “None of them are dead, they’re both fine and soon this anger of mine will be done for! I just wish they’d hurry their lazy asses up!” Lady White Heart muttered, angrily to herself. “Just hurry up!”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 97

 After walking for several long moments Rom and Ram did what they usually did. They ran ahead of Blanc and Neptune and began throwing snowballs at one another. The girls laughed as they flung snowballs back and forth. The girls even built several small snowmen as well.

Blanc didn’t say anything which wasn’t unusual for her. However, Neptune’s silence took Blanc by surprise. “Neptune? You haven’t said anything in a while. Not that I mind, but what’s wrong?”

“Well…” Neptune began, looking down at her hands. Ever since regaining her goddess form, Neptune’s mind was reeling with revelations. Memories that had been forgotten were now restored. Power she once knew was now in her possession. However, the biggest thing that kept running through Neptune’s mind was simple, but also complicated.

“I’m Purple Heart. I’m a goddess.” Said Neptune.

“I know. It surprised me too.” Said Blanc.

Neptune shook her head. “Now that I have my memories back. I’m not surprised at all. It’s just that… How did this happen? I mean. How was my human forma and goddess form separated? That’s weird, right?”

Blanc nodded. “Yes. It’s weird and concerning.”

“Yep!” Neptune said, nodding several times.

Blanc looked at Neptune out of the corners of her eyes and noticed the serious look on Neptune’s face. “Not that I’m doubting you, but do you have any idea what I mean when I say it’s concerning?”

“Nope!” Neptune admitted.

Blanc sighed deeply. “Well let me ask you this. What is the last thing you remember before our memories were taken?”

Neptune thought for a moment, her serious look turned sad. “Oh… I remember Purple Sister disappearing. I remember forgetting her and then all my friends. Then everything turns dark for a moment before I ended up in that house with Nepgear.” Neptune crossed her arms in front of her chest and closed her eyes.

“It’s weird. I remember being given new memories, but they were incomplete.” Neptune continued. “Like I remember living in that house my entire life with Nepgear, but we weren’t given memories about other family members like moms or dads. I remember the goddess and Planeptune and that’s it.”

“That’s it?” Blanc asked.

“Well yeah. We did make friends with IF and Compa, two girls we knew before our memories were sealed away. Funny how that works, huh?” Said Neptune, giggling. “That’s how this whole quest has been! Meeting up with people we already knew!”

“It is. Almost like we were drawn to each other. Like destiny.” Said Blanc, a small smile appeared on her lips. Her smile vanished however and she turned her eyes back to Neptune. “What else do you remember?”

Neptune shrugged her shoulders. “I remember we were headed to a location on Planeptune. We were trying to rescue Histoire.”

“The original?” Blanc asked.

“Yep.” Neptune said, nodding.

“Who is we?” Blanc asked.

“Me, Purple Sister, Black Heart, Black Sister, Green Heart, White Heart and the White Sisters.” Said Neptune. “As we were flying, everyone started disappearing. For whatever reason I was the last one who disappeared. Guess whoever did this must have really liked me!”

“Or hated you.” Said Blanc.

“Who could hate me that much?” Neptune asked.

“I don’t know, but think about it.” Blanc began. “Nepgear is the first to disappear and according to you, all her memories were stolen. She wasn’t even given new ones. She was just forgotten and tossed away.”

“Hey!” Neptune said, suddenly getting angry.

Blanc giggled. “Why are you getting mad at me? I’m just stating a fact.”

Neptune’s eye’s widened for a moment before softening. “Sorry Blanc. I didn’t mean to.”

Blanc shook her head. “No. I would get mad too.”

Neptune clenched her hands into tight fists. “But now I’m really mad! How dare they do this!”

“And you don’t know who this person is? Are they even a person?” Blanc asked.

Neptune shrugged her shoulders once more. “All I know is that Planeptune received some kind of alert that Histoire had been kidnapped. All the other goddesses and their sisters were visiting to play games. Everyone offered to save Histoire with Nepgear and me. While flying to this mountain area… Well you know the rest.”

“Okay.” Said Blanc.

“Well Nepgear is under the impression that it’s another goddess were dealing with, but I can’t think of anyone.” Said Neptune.

“Really?” Blanc said, surprised.

“Now before you ask. Nepgear has personally cleared everyone except White Heart.” Said Neptune.

Blanc noticed a nervous look appear in Neptune’s face. As though she were remembering something unfortunate. “I wont’ ask what that means, but I know White Heart had nothing to do with Histoire being taken.”

“Oh I do too.” Said Neptune. “After all. White Heart is my best buddy!”

Blanc smiled. “I’m glad to hear that.” Said Blanc. “Especially if I’m right about what I think I am.”

Neptune smiled warmly at her friend. “You are!” She said. “Anyways we need-” Before Neptune could say another word, a snowball struck the girl square in the face.

Rom and Ram burst into laughter. “You two are being too serious!” Ram said, through her laughter. “Stop acting like a bunch of dorks!”

“Why you little!” Neptune began, smiling evilly. “You’ve just awoken the goddess of snowball fights!” And with that, Neptune grabbed two handfuls of snow and tossed them at Rom and Ram. Of course, the snow didn’t even come close to hitting the girls.

“You throw like a girl!” Ram teased.

“Like a girl!” Said Rom.

Neptune giggled. “I’ll show you who throws like a girl!” Neptune said, as she started chasing after the twins.

Blanc giggled. “Thanks Neptune.”

Neptune halted in her tracks and glanced over her shoulder smiling and winking. “Of course!” She said, before turning her attention back to Rom and Ram. “Come back here you little snow bunnies!”

***
Several days later Neptune, Blanc, Rom and Ram managed to make it to the third Fairy Tower. Neptune was eager to see Nepgear again and meet Cyberconnect2, but they hadn’t arrived yet.

“Wh-Where are they?” Neptune wondered, as she walked all around the Fairy Tower.

“I’m sure they’ll be here soon.” Blanc said. “Considering they started off near the border of Lowee, it’ll take them longer to reach the third Fairy Tower.”

“Oh yeah. I wish I could talk to Nepgear. I miss her.” Neptune said, as her shoulders sagged.

“I know, but you should hurry up and activate the third Fairy Tower. I’m sure Histoire is tired of waiting.” Blanc said.

“Right.” Neptune said, as she reached into her pocket and removed the USB memory stick. “I’m actually surprised that I never lost this thing.” She said, as she slid the device into one of the terminals USB ports.

A few moments later, Histoire’s holographic image appeared. “Not that it would matter. I could simply issue you another one.”

“Yeah, yeah, but where’s the drama?” Neptune asked.

Blanc shook her head. “It would be annoying if you lost that thing simply because you forgot to take it out of your pocket or were being careless.”

“Exactly. So be careful with that.” Said Histoire.

“Hey lady. I should remind you that I’ve been nothing, but careful with this thing. After all were only two more Fairy Tower’s away from being finished, right?” Neptune asked, eyeing Histoire.

Histoire took a deep breath before she giggled. “You are correct. Two more Fairy Towers are left.” Histoire glanced around the area. “I see that Nepgear and Cyberconnect2 haven’t arrived yet, but they should be here within a day maybe two.”

“I see.” Said Neptune, placing her hands behind her head. “I don’t mind waiting this time.”

“That’s good. Because the next Fairy Tower is actually pretty far away from here.” Said Histoire. “I’ve already sent the coordinates to your N-Gear, but I’ll hold off sending them to Nepgear. I don’t want to give her or Cyberconnect2 the wrong idea.”

“Good idea! For someone so tiny you’re a quick little thinker!” Said Neptune.

Histoire placed her hands on her hips. “Who are you calling little? This hologram your talking to isn’t my actual body. The Fairy Tower is.”

“Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say tiny.” Said Neptune.

Histoire narrowed her eyes at Neptune, who was beaming with joy. “I’ll forgive your insults, but rest assured I will get angry the next time you insult my diminutive size.”

“I know your pain Histoire.” Ram said. “I’m tiny too and because of that Blanc thinks she can boss me and Rom around.”

“I can boss you two around because I’m your big sister.” Blanc said. “And I’m not bossing you two around. I’m looking out for you. There is a big difference.”

“Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say.” Ram said, copying Neptune.

“Anyways…” Blanc turned her eyes towards Lowee. The city that shared the countries namesake. “We should head to Lowee and find a hotel to stay in. Once we find a place we’ll let you know Histoire.”

“Thank you and I promise I’ll send the coordinates to Nepgear and Cyberconnect2 when you do.” Said Histoire.

“Great.” Said Blanc. “Alright everyone. Let’s get going.”

***

Nepgear sighed deeply when she pulled out her N-Gear and looked down at the screen. “We still have about two days to go. Unless you feel like walking all night?” Nepgear asked, looking up at Cyberconnect2.

“As nice as that is. It’s getting colder Nepgear. We should find a place to stay tonight. Like that village were headed towards.” Cyberconnect2 said, gesturing towards the village that was several miles ahead of them.

Nepgear sighed deeply. “Oh goodness. You’re right Cyberconnect2, I’m sorry. I just really want to see Neptune now! I miss her cuddles and hugs and demands for pudding! I want my big sister now!” Nepgear cried, her cheeks were bright red in color.

Cyberconnect2 hid her smile. “I know how you feel… just stay strong!”

Nepgear narrowed her eyes at Cyberocnnect2. The girl noticed that her shoulders were shaking. “Are you laughing at me?” Nepgear demanded.

“N-No.” Cyberconnect2 said, giggling. “I’m just remembering this funny joke.”

“Funny joke, huh? Tell it to me.” Nepgear said.

Cyberconnect2 waved her hand dismissively. “You wouldn’t get it.” Cyberconnect2 said. “Anyways. You should be happy. Everyone knows the other is alive. Your arm is healed. Just be patient and you’ll be reunited with your sister in no time.”

“Right.” Nepgear said. A beeping sound caught Nepgear’s attention. Looking down at her N-Gear, she noticed a green dot located on the map. “Huh…” Nepgear said, furrowing her brow.

“What’s up?” Cyberconnect2 asked.

“A green dot appeared on the map. It’s located in the middle of Lowee City.” Nepgear said.

Cyberconnect2 thought about this for a few moments. “OH! I bet your sister and her friends are staying in a hotel in Lowee.”

Nepgear nodded. “That makes sense to me.” Nepgear smiled warmly. “I’m glad. We’ll be reunited soon Neptune.” Nepgear hugged her N-Gear close to her chest. “So Cyberconnect2. How about we-”

“No.” Cyberconnect2 said, cutting Nepgear off. “We’ll spend the night in that village and then head for Lowee City.”

“Poo…” Nepgear said, sighing deeply. “Oh well. We’ll get there soon enough.”

When the two girls reached the village they found a hotel they could stay in. After checking into their room, Cyberconnect2 kicked off her boots before crawling underneath her blankets and rested her head on the pillow. “I’m so cold!” Cyberconnect2 said, as she began to shiver.

“You look cold. I’m sorry for trying to make you walk all night.” Nepgear said.

“It’s okay. I understand.” Cyberconnect2 said.

“I have an idea. I’ll turn up the heat and then go get us some warm food. That’ll warm you up.” Said Nepgear.

“Thanks!” Cyberconnect2 said.

Nepgear turned up the heat in the room and left to get some food. When she returned, she was happy to see Cyberconnect2 was sitting up in bed and watching television. “Are you feeling okay?” Nepgear asked, handing her a plate of food.

“Yeah. Thanks!” Cyberconnect2 said, looking down at her meal. “I just needed to warm up. Anyways, they’re still looking for Lady Purple Heart.”

“Yeah… I wonder what happened to her.” Nepgear said. “She’s pretty tough, so I doubt she was kidnapped.”

“That’s true.” Said Cyberconnect2.

The two girls watched television as they ate. After a few moments, they showed a video of Purple Sister, who had tears streaming down her cheeks. “Aww! I feel so bad for Purple Sister.” Nepgear said.

“Me too.” Said Cyberconnect2, before she tilted her head slightly to the right. “Hey Nepgear. Don’t you think you look a little like Purple Sister?”

Nepgear looked at Cyberconnect2 for a few moments, before turning her eyes to Purple Sister who was still crying. “Maybe… A little bit?”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 96

 Blanc hesitated. At first she was determined to ask Neptune her question, but now she was worried she might be moving too fast. Blanc clenched and unclenched her hands into tight fists. She moved all her weight onto one foot and then the other. Finally Blanc turned her eyes to Histoire, who simply nodded at her.

“Whoa… What’s with this seriousness? Did I do something wrong?” Neptune asked.

Blanc took a deep breath. “Neptune? I want to ask you a few questions actually. The first one is this. Why did Histoire choose you to reactivate all the Fairy Towers?”

“Huh? Why?” Neptune began, tapping her lower lip thoughtfully. “She said she knew I would see this quest through until the end. That’s why.” Neptune said, smiling brightly. “And I’ve been doing a pretty darn good job so far!”

“You have.” Said Histoire, nodding.

“Yes, but why you?” Blanc asked. “I’m sure there are dozens, if not thousands of people on Planeptune that would be willing to take on this quest. Who’s just as determined, if not more to see this quest through to the end. Your sister for instance.”

Neptune’s shoulders sagged. “You’re making fun of me, huh?”

Blanc shook her head. “Not at all.” Blanc said, holding up her hands.

“What’s going on?” Ram asked.

“Please don’t fight.” Rom said, nervously.

“Were not fighting, but I am asking Neptune some very important questions.” Said Blanc, clearing her throat a little. “Neptune. I want to ask you something else. Did Histoire give you complete access to the Fairy Tower data?”

“Yep!” Said Neptune.

“Why?” Asked Blanc.

“Because… Huh… not sure.” Neptune admitted.

“Only goddesses and certain individuals have unmitigated access to that information.” Said Histoire.

“Exactly. So why give you and your sister access to all that data?” Blanc asked.

Neptune winced in pain. “Owie.” The girl said, as she began rubbing the place between her eyebrows. “Memories are coming back and they aren’t stopping.”

Blanc reached down and took Neptune by the hand. After that she placed Neptune’s hand on the Fairy Tower. Instantly the pain went away. “Is that better Neptune?”

“Y-Yeah… No… I feel weird and it’s not going away.” Neptune said, slowly shaking her head. “What’s going on? Do I need to lay down or something?”

“No Neptune. You’re memories are being returned to you.” Said Histoire. “And with your memories. Your true self will be returned to you.”

“My true self?” Neptune opened her eyes, but she was no longer standing in a snowy field. The Fairy Tower, Blanc, Rom and Ram were also gone. Neptune was now standing in a dark void. The sound of water trickling from overhead could be heard.

“Where am I?” Neptune wondered, aloud.

“Who’s there?” Came a familiar voice.

Neptune and the owner of the voice moved forward until they came face-to-face with each other. “Lady Purple Heart?” Neptune said, surprised.

Lady Purple Heart smiled brightly at Neptune. “Didn’t I tell you to call me Purple Heart? Were friends, remember?”

Neptune giggled and blushed. “Sorry about that.” Neptune said, as she scratched the back of her head nervously. “Anyways, Purple Heart. Where are we?”

Purple Heart glanced around the area, but shook her head. “I don’t know. I was starting to feel weird and before I knew it, I was here.” Purple Heart took a deep breath. “I hope Purple Sister won’t be too worried about me. By the way. How’s Nepgear doing?” Purple Heart asked.

“We got separated, but I just found out that she’s still alive.” Said Neptune. “Were meeting back up at the third Fairy Tower.” Neptune opened her mouth to say something, when a thought suddenly came to her. “Purple Heart? What are you missing?”

“Missing?” Purple Heart asked. A nervous look appeared on Purple Heart’s face. She then covered her face with her hands.

“Why do I know that look?” Neptune wondered to herself. “It’s a look of shame.”

Purple Heart slowly moved her hands away from her face. “I was hoping no one would notice, but yes. I’m missing something very important.” The girl said, taking several deep breaths. “I’m scared. What if Planeptune finds out? What if they hate me? They should hate me.”

“Whoa! Settle down Purple Heart!” Neptune said, running over to the goddess and taking her hands into her own. “It’s okay. It’s not your fault that you’re missing this important thing.”

Purple Heart looked at Neptune for a moment. A look of doubt appeared on her face. “How do you know?”

Neptune shook her head. “I just do. For some reason.” Said Neptune, closing her eyes and thinking back. “I’m starting to know a lot of things that I didn’t before. I know this missing thing of yours is out there. Probably closer than we think. At least that’s what my brain is telling me.”

“Really?” Purple Heart said, tilting her head slightly to the right.

Neptune opened her eyes and smiled even brighter than before. “Really! So tell me. Without fear. What are you missing?”

Purple Heart hesitated for a moment, before she finally said. “Love for my people.”

Neptune’s body started to glow brightly, but the girl didn’t seem to notice. Instead she gave Purple Heart’s hands a gentle squeeze. “That’s because all your love for your people is within me!”

“How? Why?” Purple Heart asked.

“Because. I’m you.” Said Neptune.

Purple Heart’s eyes went wide, before they closed and a gentle smile appeared on Purple Heart’s face. “Right. I remember now.”

***

“I think she’s broken.” Ram said, as she began patting Neptune’s head.

“Don’t do that Ram.” Said Blanc.

Before Blanc could grab Ram’s hand, both Neptune and Ram flew high into the air. Blanc’s eyes went wide. “RAM!” Blanc screamed. Blanc watched as Neptune and Ram flew higher and higher into the air. Neptune’s body glowed with an otherworldly shine.

“HELP ME!” Ram cried out, in terror.

“H-Hold on!” Blanc cried.

Blanc ran several yards away from the Fairy Tower, while Rom watched in terror. “Don’t worry Ram! I’m going to jump in and catch you. I won’t let you-”

“It’s alright.” A voice said.

The light coming from Neptune grew brighter and brighter, but soon it disappeared. Neptune was gone, but Lady Purple Heart remained. “I got you!” Purple Heart said, as she caught Ram before the small girl started to fall. “Sorry about that Ram. I didn’t mean to bring you up with me.”

“I’m… okay…” Ram said, blinking her eyes several times. “Who are you lady?”

“Who am I? You don’t remember?” Purple Heart asked.

Purple Heart gently flew to the ground. Once her feet touched the snow, she put Ram down. “Sorry about that Blanc. I didn’t mean for that to happen.”

Blanc shook her head. “Just don’t scare me like that again you idiot.” Blanc said, trying to keep her temper in check. “So I was right. Neptune really was Lady Purple Heart.”

“Yes, but please call me Purple Heart. Or better yet.” Purple Heart’s body flashed and now Neptune was standing there. Neptune wore a large smile on her face and her hands were up on her hips. “Call me Neptune!”

“Whoa!” Ram and Rom said, in unison. “You mean you’re the goddess of Planeptune?” Ram asked.

“Uh-oh!” Rom said, as she bowed low to Neptune. “Lady Neptune. It’s a-” Rom began, but Neptune cut her off.

“Oh please! I don’t want my good buddies to bow to me! Treat me normally, okay?” Neptune said, happily. Neptune turned to Histoire. “Histoire? Did you know I was actually the goddess of Planeptune? All this time?” She asked.

Histoire shook her head. “No. Please remember that activating the Fairy Towers also means restoring memories to the Fairy Towers themselves. I had no idea that Neptune and Lady Purple Heart were one in the same.”

“I see. I was going to be a mad Nep if you actually knew.” Said Neptune.

“Actually. I don’t think it would have mattered if I told you or not.” Said Histoire. “Your memories were forcefully sealed away after all.” Histoire turned her eyes towards Blanc. “For example. Blanc you are actually … …!” Histoire said. “Do you believe me?”

“Do I believe mumble, mumble?” Blanc asked, furrowing her brow. Blanc turned her eyes towards Rom and Ram who also looked confused. Neptune on the other hand looked completely shocked.

“No way!” Neptune said.

“I’m sorry, but I didn’t hear what Histoire said.” Said Blanc.

“Me either.” Said Ram.

“Same here.” Said Rom.

Histoire nodded. “That’s because your memories are sealed and the parts of your brain that can contain that information are also blocked off. Of course you’d never see these blocks if you were to get a ct scan.”

“I see…” Blanc said, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “It’s strange. I have a feeling I know what you want to tell me, but at the same time my brain is rejecting it.”

“Rejecting what? I’m confused!” Ram said.

Blanc giggled. “It’s okay Ram. Rom. Everything’s fine. Nothing to worry about.”

“Anyways, this will make things a lot easier for us!” Said Neptune. “Now that I’m Purple Heart again, we can just fly to the next Fairy Tower!”

“Well we can’t fly.” Said Blanc. “Unless you think you can carry all of us.”

Neptune’s smile vanished. “No… I don’t think I can…”

“It’s alright Neptune.” Said Histoire. “Just take your time getting to the third Fairy Tower. You still need to become stronger after all.”

“That’s true.” Said Neptune, sighing deeply. “Oh! Histoire! I bet Purple Heart isn’t the only one who’s actually someone else, right? Are they ready to hear this hard hitting truth?”

Histoire nodded. “There are a few, but don’t worry about them. I’ll contact them myself.”

“Okies!” Neptune said, saluting. Neptune turned to Blanc, Rom and Ram. “Sorry about that. I’m ready to go when you are.”

“Great.” Blanc said, taking Rom and Ram by the hand. “Let’s get going girls.”

“Right!” Ram said.

“I’m ready to go.” Said Rom.

Neptune started walking beside her friends. As she walked, Rom and Ram kept stealing glanced at her. “What is it girls?” Neptune asked, blushing a little.

“I want to fly.” Said Rom.

“Me too! It was so fun!” Said Ram.

“Fun? You looked like you were about to wet yourself.” Neptune teased.

“I was not! You just scared me a little!” Ram said, annoyed by Neptune’s accusation.

“Just teasing!” Said Neptune. “I don’t mind flying with you two, but I have a feeling that you won’t need me for that soon enough!”

“Really? Why?” Ram asked.

“Airplane maybe?” Rom offered.

Even though Blanc’s brain rejected what Neptune was saying, she knew that her friend was right. “Someday we’ll all go flying.” Blanc said, giving her sisters hands a gentle squeeze. “No matter what my brain tells me.”

***

Nepgear and Cyberconnect2 continued making their way across the snow fields of Lowee. As they walked, the girls talked amongst themselves. “I’m really curious what Lowee city is like. Have you ever been there before?”

Cyberconect2 nodded. “I have. It’s a really cute city. Also the Basilicom looks like a castle! It’s really cute!”

“Awesome!” Nepgear said, happily. “I know my sister will want to check out any arcades. She might even buy a new console. I won’t lecture her if she does.”

Cyberconnect2 giggled. “Do you usually have to lecture her?”

Neptune blushed a little. “I hate to say it, but my sister doesn’t always make the best buying decisions. It’s not like were poor or anything, but I do wish she’d think about some of her expenditures.”

“I know how she feels. Sometimes when I see some new daggers, the first thing I want to do is buy them!” Said Cyberconnect2.

Nepgear nodded. “I’m the same way. Sometimes I’ll see a new computer part or something and I just have to have it! I remember one time-” Before Nepgear could say another word, she heard a beeping sound coming from her other N-Gear.

“What’s that?” Cyberconnect2 asked.

“An emergency broadcast.” Nepgear said, taking out her other N-Gear. Cyberconnect2 watched as the color in Nepgear’s face drained. “Oh no! This is terrible!” Nepgear breathed.

“What’s wrong? What happened?” Cyberconnect2 asked.

Nepgear slowly shook her head while she looked down at her other N-Gear. Finally she tore her eyes away from the screen and looked into Cyberconnect2’s eyes. “Lady Purple Heart! She’s missing!”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 95

 Cyberconnect2 wore a disappointed look on her face. Thankfully for her, Nepgear couldn’t see it. That was simply because the sun had set several hours ago. “This stinks…” Cyberconnect2 said, breaking her silence. “I was really hoping we would have reached the Fairy Tower by now. Did we get lost or something?”

“No.” Nepgear said, as she took out her other N-Gear and looked down at the screen. “Were almost there. We were just further away than we thought.”

“I see… That’s good…” Cyberconnect2 said, her shoulders sagged. “Can I ask you something Nepgear? Did you bring anything we could use to camp with? I don’t mind gathering firewood, but we might need more than a fire.”

“I have a tent.” Said Nepgear. “But Neptune had our sleeping bags in her backpack.”

“Uh-oh…” Cyberconnect2 said. “I’m really sorry Nepgear. This is all my fault.”

Nepgear shook her head. “Don’t be sorry. Everything’s fine. I think the Fairy Tower emits heat. I think Histoire can keep us warm tonight.” Nepgear said, her voice shook a little in her throat. Nepgear didn’t want to say anything, but her arm had been hurting for the last hour and the pain wasn’t going away. “I might need to stop soon.” Thought Nepgear.

Nepgear and Cyberconnect2 made their way over a large snowdrift. At first, the girls saw nothing but blackness. However, their worries were alleviated when dozens of lights started to come on.

“The Fairy Tower!” Nepgear said, joyfully.

“There it is! Let’s keep going!” Cyberconnect2 said. Even though Cyberconnect2 was overjoyed to see the Fairy Tower, she didn’t run. Instead she kept Nepgear’s pace and followed right beside her until they reached the Fairy Tower.

“Nepgear! I can’t believe it!” Histoire said, appearing before the two girls. “What happened to you?”

“J-Just a moment Histoire.” Nepgear said, before she reached out and touched the Fairy Tower. Almost immediately the pain in Nepgear’s arm disappeared. The strength she had been missing in her fingers and arm slowly returned and soon her arm felt like normal. “Histoire? Can the Fairy Tower fix broken bones?”

“Broken bones?!” Histoire said, horrified. “Y-Yes! Hold on.” Histoire closed her eyes. A moment later she opened them. “I just performed a scan of your body. Your arm was fractured, but it’s been mended. You should be fine now.”

“Thank you.” Nepgear said, as she moved her hand. Nepgear took a deep breath before she lifted her arm out of the sling. She clenched her hand into a tight fists before releasing it. “I don’t feel any pain. I think it’s better!”

“What a relief.” Cyberconnect2 said.

“Please!” Histoire said, in a loud voice. “Tell me everything that happened.”

Nepgear took a deep breath. “Well…” And with that Nepgear and Cyberconnect2 told Histoire everything that had happened. When the girls finished, Histoire sighed deeply. “I can’t believe it. You’ve been through so much Nepgear. Cyberconnect2? Thank you so much for looking after her.”

“Of course!” Cyberconnect2 said, smiling brightly.

“About my sister?” Nepgear said.

Histoire nodded. “Your sister has been beside herself with worry! She’s going to be so happy to hear that you’re alive.”

“Huh? Did she think I died?” Nepgear asked.

“No… Well perhaps.” Histoire said. “Nepgear. You should know that your sister has been searching for you ever since you were separated. She’s trying to stay strong, but without you she’s a mess.”

“Poor thing.” Cyberconnect2 said.

“Anyways. She’s still looking for you, but she’s also continuing the quest.” Said Histoire. “You know how important it is, right?”

Nepgear smiled and nodded. “It’s okay Histoire. I know.” Nepgear took a deep breath. “Anyways. We need to catch up to my sister.”

“Yes.” Said Histoire. “Last time I checked, she was staying in a small village near the second Fairy Tower. She should reach the area by tomorrow morning.”

“She must be lonely.” Nepgear said, worriedly.

“Actually she’s traveling with three girls.” Said Histoire. “Blanc, Rom and Ram.”

“Blanc, Rom and Ram…?” Nepgear said, furrowing her brow.

“What’s wrong?” Cyberconnect2 asked.

“It’s just that… The names Rom and Ram sound familiar. I think I’ve heard them before.” Said Nepgear.

“Odd. Normally you feel dizzy and feel some pain when you regain a memory.” Said Histoire, scratching her chin thoughtfully.

“I know, but maybe this is a memory I already regained.” Said Nepgear. “Anyways. We should get going soon.”

“Wait.” Cyberconnect2 and Histoire said in unison. Cyberconnect2 turned her eyes to Histoire. “Sorry about that. You go first.”

“Oh. Thank you.” Histoire said. “Actually I was going to say that it’s too dangerous for you two travel at night. You both need rest and you both need to get out of the cold. Thankfully Blanc suggested you stay in her home.”

“Really? That was nice of her.” Said Nepgear.

Histoire turned to Cyberconnect2. “Did you have something to say?”

“Actually you said it for me. I’m too cold to keep walking.” Cyberconnect2 said. “Do you think this Blanc girl would mind if I stayed in her home? I’ll stay by the door.”

Histoire giggled. “Don’t be silly. I’m sure she would want you to relax inside her home.” Said Histoire. “Anyways. I’ll send you the coordinates to Blanc’s home and the second Fairy Tower.”

“Thanks.” Said Nepgear. Nepgear took a deep breath. “But no. Could you send me the coordinates to the third Fairy Tower instead?”

“The third?” Histoire said, surprised.

“Yeah… I have a feeling that it’s going to take Cyberconnect2 and I a long time to reach the second Fairy Tower. It might be faster if we meet up at the third one instead.” Said Nepgear.

“That’s a good idea.” Said Histoire.

“Any idea where the third one is right now?” Cyberconnect2 asked.

“I won’t know until the second one is activated.” Histoire said.

“I have a feeling I know where it’ll be.” Said Nepgear. “If I had to guess. It’ll be right next to the city that shares Lowee’s namesake.”

“Makes sense.” Said Histoire. “In that case, I’ll inform Neptune, Blanc, Rom and Ram that you’re safe and you’ll meet her at the third Fairy Tower.”

“Thanks!” Nepgear said. “Ready to go Cyberconnect2?”

“Yep!” Cyberconnect2 said, the girl was hugging herself now. “I can’t wait to get warm!”

Cyberconnect2 and Nepgear followed the map on Nepgear’s N-Gear. Soon the girls were standing in front of Blanc’s home. The house was small, but it looked quaint. “I’ll get the door.” Nepgear said, as she grabbed the knob and pulled. Even though Nepgear was more than strong enough to open the door, she could tell how heavy the lock was.

“Wow. No normal person would be able to open this door.” Nepgear said.

“Must be worried about security.” Said Cyberconnect2.

The door swung open and the girls stepped inside. Even though the house was dark and there was no heat, the difference between outside and inside was obvious.

“I’ll get the fire started.” Said Cyberconnect2, as she bent down in front of the fireplace.

“Thanks.” Said Nepgear, as she found a light switch and flipped it. “This place looks cute.”

“Yeah. I like it.” Said Cyberconnect2, smiling. “Oh right. Nepgear? I was wondering. Can’t you use your N-Gear to communicate with your sister?”

Nepgear shook her head, even though her friend couldn’t see her. “No. I built this N-Gear for…” Nepgear hesitated for a moment. “For other things. I didn’t add any messaging system to it.”

“That’s too bad.” Said Cyberconnect2.

“Yeah. I’ve mentally kicked myself a few times already for that.” Said Nepgear.

Cyberconnect2 giggled. “Well don’t kick yourself too hard. Hard to plan for these things.” After a few moments, Cyberconnect2 managed to get a fire going. After a few more moments, the fire was blazing and the room slowly filled with heat.

“Wow. I feel that!” Nepgear said, taking a seat on one of the beds. “I feel weird using someone’s house that I don’t know. Well I don’t remember them. I have a feeling that I do know them.”

“Yeah? That’s how I feel about you.” Cyberconnect2 said, sitting on a bed close to Nepgear. “We’ve met before. I’m sure.”

Nepgear giggled. “Funny. I feel like me and my sister are destined to meet people we’ve already met before. Good friends.”

Cyberconnect2 and Nepgear giggled. “Oh man! I’m so exhausted!” Cyberconnect2 said, leaning back. “Hey Nepgear? This might sound crazy, but I think we should sleep in tomorrow. I know we need to get started on the third Fairy Tower, but your sister and the other three will need a chance to get to the second one.”

“Yeah. I was actually thinking the same thing.” Said Nepgear, who stood up and tossed the jacket she had been wearing onto the bed.

“What are you doing?” Cyberconnect2 asked.

“I’m going to… Raid Blanc’s refrigerator. I’ll write down anything that we eat so I can repay Blanc back later.”

“We’ll pay her back.” Said Cyberconnect2, getting to her feet. “I’m tired and hungry. Let’s do something about that.”

***

The following morning Neptune, Blanc, Rom and Ram continued their journey to the second Fairy Tower. After passing by several buildings in the small village they stayed in, the girls soon found themselves surrounded by nothing, but endless whiteness. “Oh man! I’m pumped today!” Neptune said.

“Why’s that?” Ram asked.

“Got to watch anime last night, I slept good. Yeah! I’m ready for today!” Neptune said, gleefully.

A small smile appeared on Blanc’s face. “I’m happy to hear that.” She said. Even though Blanc didn’t say anything, she knew that Neptune had left the hotel earlier that morning in a search for Nepgear. Unfortunately she wasn’t able to locate her sister.

After walking for several long hours, the second Fairy Tower came into view. “There she is!” Neptune said, as she fished out the USB memory stick from her pocket. Once Neptune was close enough, she slid the memory stick into one of the terminals USB port. Moments later, Histoire appeared.

“Neptune! I have great news for you!” Histoire said, excitedly.

“Oh? Did you locate a mine filled with pudding?” Neptune asked.

“No silly! Nepgear!” Histoire said.

Neptune’s smile faltered. “N-Nepgear? You found Nepgear?”

“No. She found me last night.” Histoire said, excitedly. Histoire spent several minutes telling Neptune and her friends everything that Nepgear had told her. When she finally finished, she noticed that tears had welled up in the corners of Neptune’s eyes.

“Wow. I knew that kiddo was okay, but still…” Neptune wiped away her tears. “I’m so happy!”

“I’m happy as well.” Said Histoire. “Also Blanc. Nepgear’s friend Cyberconnect2 is staying in your home with Nepgear. I hope that isn’t a problem. I told them it wouldn’t be.”

“Of course not.” Said Blanc. “They can stay there as long as they need to.”

“As long as they don’t delete any of our save files on our games!” Ram said.

“I’m sure they’ll be respectful of those.” Said Histoire. “Anyways, Nepgear suggested that you should meet up at the third Fairy Tower. She correctly guessed that it’s close to the city that shares Lowee’s namesake.”

“Okay. Great!” Neptune said, as she removed the N-Gear and looked down at it. “It looks like Lowee city is quite a distance from here. It’ll probably take us about three days to reach it.”

“Yes. It’s quite the walk, but I’m sure you’ll be fine.” Said Histoire.

“Of course! Now that I know Nepgear’s alive.” Neptune said, smiling brightly. “Histoire? Can you do me a favor?”

“Of course.” Histoire said.

Neptune bent down and whispered something into Histoire’s ear. Histoire giggled and blushed. “Of course. No problem at all.”

“Great!” Neptune said, closing her eyes and smiling brightly. Neptune took a deep breath and turned to Blanc. “Well Blanc? Are you ready to go?” She asked.

Blanc shook her head. “No. First I need to ask you a very serious question.” Blanc said.

“Huh?” Neptune said, tilting her head slightly to the right. “What is it?”

***

The following morning Nepgear and Cyberconnect2 headed out. After closing the door to Blanc’s house and making sure it was bolted shut, the girls started walking towards the Fairy Tower.

When Nepgear woke up that morning she tested her arm. It felt just as great as it did the previous day. “I think I got used to feeling pain every morning. Thankfully the Fairy Tower really did take care of it!” Nepgear thought to herself.

The two girls trudged through the snow, their destination was the first Fairy Tower. “Do you think that your sister and her friends reached the second Fairy Tower by now?”

“I do.” Said Nepgear. “No doubt about it.”

Once the girls were close to the Fairy Tower, Histoire appeared. “Welcome back Nepgear and Cyberconnect2.”

“Thanks Histoire.” Said Nepgear, smiling brightly.

“I’ve already sent the coordinates to the third Fairy Tower. You were right about it’s location. It’s on the very outskirts of Lowee city.” Said Histoire.

“Great!” Said Nepgear, as she pulled out her other N-Gear and looked down at the screen. “I hate to do this, but we really need to get going.”

“Of course, but I have to keep a promise to Neptune.” Said Histoire.

“Promise?” Nepgear said, confused.

“Yes.” Histoire said, nodding. “I promised your sister that I would pass a message on to you.”

“A message?” Nepgear said. “What is it?”

Histoire giggled. “This is the message Nepgear.” Histoire cleared her throat before she started talking. “Nepgear? I love you.”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 94

 Lady White Heart closed her eyes tightly as she folded her hands together in front of her and tried to keep herself in line. “Don’t get angry! Don’t get angry! Don’t get angry!” She kept saying to herself over and over again. “This doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter. Nothing to get mad about!”

Lady White Heart opened her eyes and looked at the response her last email to Histoire had received. “I’m very disappointed in you.” It read.

“WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?!” Lady White Heart screamed, as she summoned her axe and sliced her computer cleanly in two. The message on the screen quickly disappeared.

The door to Lady White Heart’s office opened and a girl appeared. “Not again…” The girl said, in a low voice.

“You have something to say to me Financier?” Lady White Heart asked, narrowing her eyes at the girl.

“Nothing. It’s just this is the fifth laptop you’ve destroyed… Today.” Financier said, as she entered the office.

“How dare you smart off to me! You’re fired!” Lady White Heart roared.

“And that’s the twentieth time you’ve fired me today as well.” Said Financier.

“Make it twenty-one! You’re fired!” Lady White Hear said, as she sent her massive axe away. “Did you read this email by the way? Where the hell does Histoire get off telling me she’s disappointed? I’m disappointed that I have to put up with her! I didn’t bring these outsiders to Lowee! Why should I have to help them activate the Fairy Towers?”

“Because all of our memories are sealed away?” Financier offered. “Oh and the original Histoire is also sealed away too, right?”

Lady White Heart narrowed her eyes at the girl. “And who sealed them away? What a load of crap! Histoire should just unseal herself! Worthless little fairy.”

Financier took a deep breath. “I understand where you’re coming from.” The girl said, though in reality she didn’t. “But you should have helped those girls out. You could have really hurt them you know?”

“I… I know, okay dammit? I know!” Lady White Heart balled her hands into tight fists. “But every time I think about those two dimwits I get angry. I don’t know where all this rage is coming from either! It pisses me off!” Lady White Heart looked down at her hands and took another deep breath.

“Have you see my sisters today? Are they doing well?” Lady White Heart asked.

“I haven’t.” Said Financier. “They’re in their room with Mina and you won’t let them out.”

“They’re safe in there.” Said Lady White Heart. “Security cameras, trip wires, sentry guns. Nothing can hurt them.”

“Lady White Heart, please…” Financier began, but Lady White Heart cut her off.

“Enough. They’re my sisters. I’ll take care of them the way I know best.” Lady White Heart said. “Anyways, if you hear from those girls… Neptune and Nepgear? Don’t tell me. God knows I’ll try to kill them again. Just help them yourself. It’s for the best.” And with those words, Lady White Heart sank into her chair.

Financier nodded. “Yes ma’am.”

***

Nepgear and Cyberconnect2 walked side-by-side through the snow making their way towards the first Fairy Tower. As the girls walked, they chatted with each other about their lives.

Nepgear had already told Cyberconnect2 about her quest to activate the Fairy Towers. Now she told her new friend about all the adventures and hardships she and Neptune had experienced since leaving Planeptune.

“Wow Nepgear. You and your sister both had it rough. I really feel sorry for Neptune though. A head injury that nearly killed her and poisoned? Geesh! That’s horrible. Not that a broken arm is anything to laugh about.”

Nepgear giggled. “I think my sisters experienced the worst of it though.”

“Yeah?” Said Cyberconnect2. “I could be wrong, but you don’t seem that worried about her.”

Nepgear shook her head. “I’m worried, but I know my sister. She’s tough. I bet she’s in better shape than I am.”

“I hope.” Said Cyberconnect2. The vast snowfield that spread out before the two girls seemed almost endless, but it wouldn’t be very long before the girls finally reached the first Fairy Tower. “It’s weird. I knew something was wrong a while ago. I felt like something was missing, so I started searching for it.”

“Did you find anything?” Nepgear asked.

“Well… My memories started coming back, but I have to assume that it was because of you and your sister.” Said Cyberconnect2. “It’s a frustrating feeling, but things are getting better.”

“Yeah.” Said Nepgear. “Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.” Said Cyberconnect2.

“Do you remember anything about Lady White Heart?” Nepgear glanced around as though she were expecting someone to be listening in. “I don’t mean to speak out of turn, but how can someone so angry run a nation like this?”

Cyberconnect2 furrowed her brows. “Yeah? Well… She wasn’t always like that. At least according to my memories. I mean she flared up, but she never attacked an innocent before.”

“Really?” Said Nepgear.

“Yeah. It’s weird. My memories of Lady White Heart are completely different from how she is now. It’s almost like she was replaced by a duplicate or something.” Said Cyberconnect2.

“Duplicate, huh?” Nepgear said, thinking for a moment.

“Wait… You don’t think she was actually replaced, do you?” Cyberconnect2 asked, nervously.

Nepgear didn’t answer right away, but soon a smile appeared on her face and the girl shook her head. “No. That’s crazy.” Nepgear said. “Sorry, I got mixed up for a second.”

“It’s alright. Are you cold?” Cyberconnect2 asked.

Nepgear touched the coat that Cyberconnect2 had leant her. “Nope. This coat is really warm. Thanks again for letting me use it.”

“You’re welcome!” Said Cyberconnect2. “I bought that jacket when I moved to Lowee and-” Cyberconnect2 winced in pain and felt dizzy. “Oh… Wow… Just remembered that.”

“Are you okay?” Nepgear asked, concerned.

Cyberconnect2 nodded. “Yeah. I’m fine. I’ve felt that pain a few times. Never going to get used to it.”

“Yeah. It can get annoying.” Said Nepgear. “Anyways, back to what we were talking about. I think Lady White Heart is missing something.”

“Missing something?” Said Cyberconnect2.

“Yeah. It’s something I’ve noticed all the goddesses going through. They were either missing something or obsessed with something. Well everyone except for Purple Heart, but she could also be missing something as well.” Nepgear began. “For instance, Purple Sister was missing all her memories. Black Heart was missing her focus, Black Sister was obsessed with getting approval from her sister and Green Heart was obsessed with video games.”

“That’s interesting.” Said Cyberconnect2. “I guess in Lady White Heart’s case, she’s missing restraint.”

Nepgear giggled. “Seems so.”

“I wonder about White Sisters though.” Said Cyberconnect2.

“White Sisters?” Said Nepgear, confused.

“Yeah. Lady White Heart has two little twin sisters, but they haven’t been seen in a while. I wonder if they’re okay.” Said Cyberconnect2.

“Huh…” Nepgear began. “Kind of scary. Little girls having to deal with an older sister who can barely contain her anger.”

Cyberconnect2 shook her head. “No way Nepgear. Lady White Heart would never hurt her sisters. She loves them too much.”

“Yeah.” Nepgear said, but she didn’t push the matter anymore. Some thoughts were too much, even for her. Nepgear pulled out her other N-Gear and glanced down at the screen. “Looks like we should reach the Fairy Tower in a few hours.”

“Good!” Said Cyberconnect2. “So all you have to do is touch this thing and your arm will mend?”

“I hope.” Said Nepgear. “It’s healed quite a few serious injuries in the past. I’m hoping it can fix a broke bone.”

Cyberconnect2 nodded. “Let’s think positively. Oh and let’s hurry up! The sooner your taken care of, the sooner we can start looking for your big sister.”

“Right!” Nepgear said, excitedly. “Please hold on a bit longer Neptune. I’ll find you soon!” Nepgear thought, as she started walking a bit faster.

A few hours later Cyberconnect2 halted in her tracks. At first, Nepgear was confused why she would suddenly stop walking, but she quickly realized why. Located several yards ahead of them, were several Ice Golems.

“Great…” Nepgear said, as she summoned her energy sword. “My arm might be broken, but I can still fight if I have to.”

“It’s okay.” Cyberconnect2 said, as she summoned her weapons as well. Cyberconnect2 now held two crimson red daggers in her hands. “I can deal with these guys!” And with those words, the girl rushed forwards.

The two Ice Golems turned their attention towards Cyberconnect2, but before they could launch any kind of attack, the girl rushed past them. Moments later several large slashes appeared in their icy bodies. Moments later, the creatures vanished.

“Whoa! Cyberconnect2! You’re so powerful!” Nepgear said. “I guess I didn’t need this after all, huh?”

“I appreciate the thought.” Cyberconnect2 said, giggling. “Anyways, is your arm still okay?”

“It’s fine.” Said Nepgear. “I was worried it might start hurting if I had to fight, but with you around, I might get lazy.” Nepgear giggled.

Cyberconnect2 giggled as well. “Well I’m happy to help if I can. Come on. Let’s keep going.”

Nepgear nodded. “Right.” She said.

***

Neptune giggled as she ducked out of the way of a snowball. Grabbing a handful of snow herself, she quickly packed it into a ball and heaved it at Rom. However, Neptune had intentionally missed her target and the snowball flew several inches above Rom’s head. “You missed!” Rom giggled, as she ran over to her sister and hid behind her. “Blanc’s timeout.”

“Hey! No fair!” Neptune said, pretending to be annoyed. Before Neptune could say or do anything else, she was hit in the back of the head with a snowball. Neptune’s eyes went wide, before she suddenly fell over.

Blanc and Rom had been walking together, but both stopped when Neptune had fallen. “Ram? Did you put a rock or something in your snowball?” Blanc asked, looking over her shoulder at Ram.

“No. Just snow.” Said Ram.

Neptune suddenly rolled onto her back and threw a snowball at Ram. Like before, the snowball missed its target. “Shoot! I missed.” Neptune said, sighing deeply.

“You suck! You suck!” Ram teased.

Blanc sighed deeply as Rom ran over to her sister. Neptune stood up and dusted the snow off her body. “Thanks for playing with them Neptune.” Said Blanc, a small smile appeared on her lips.

“My pleasure. Rom and Ram are pretty tiring though.” Neptune said, sticking out her cute little tongue in exhaustion.

“They can be, but they make me happy and I’m happy when they’re happy.” Said Blanc.

“Aww! That’s how I feel with Nepgear. She makes me happy too.” Neptune took a jagged breath, before she released it. Even though she was certain that Nepgear was alright, she still worried about her. “When will I find you Nepgear? Is this how Purple Heart felt when Purple Sister disappeared? I bet it is.”

“You okay? Thinking about her?” Blanc asked.

Neptune nodded. “I’m cool. I’m cool.” Neptune said, waving her hand dismissively. “Oh look!” Neptune pointed straight ahead. Near the horizon was a small village. “Is that our next stop?” Neptune asked.

“Yes.” Blanc said, nodding. “Were pretty close to the second Fairy Tower. Hopefully we’ll reach it tomorrow morning.”

“Cool beans!” Neptune said. Neptune twirled around on her heels. “Hey Rom and Ram I’ll race…” Neptune began, but she stopped talking when she noticed Rom and Ram were holding a large snowball in their hands.

“Hey Neptune! Come here a second!” Ram said.

“No.” Neptune said, shaking her head.

“Let’s get her!” Ram cried.

“Yeah!” Said Rom, nodding.

Neptune turned on her heels and started running as fast as she could. “Don’t hit me with that! It’ll die! I’ll die!” Neptune cried.

Blanc couldn’t help, but giggle. “Better you then me.” She thought.

Rom and Ram suddenly halted in their tracks and turned to Blanc. “Hey maybe we should-” Ram began, but a single look from Blanc caused the two girls to drop the snowball to the ground. A look of terror could be seen on the young girl’s faces. “J-Just kidding!”

“Yeah! Kidding!” Rom cried.

“Good.” Blanc said, her voice was small and the smile she wore looked creepy. “Let’s keep going. I want to reach the next village before it get’s dark.”