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.”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 93

 Neptune opened her eyes and groaned loudly. “Morning already? Nepgear, I have an idea. We should stay in the hotel today and forget all about the Fairy Towers.” Neptune muttered, as she rolled onto her stomach and hugged her pillow close to her face. After a few moments, Neptune lifted her head and glanced around the room she was in.

Neptune noticed Rom and Ram were sleeping together despite the fact that there were four beds in the room. Neptune’s eyes then turned to Blanc who was slipping her shoes on.

“Oh right…” Neptune said, in a small voice.

Neptune sat up in bed and yawned loudly and stretched her hands high over her head. “Good morning Blanc.” Neptune said.

“Good morning Neptune. Did you sleep well?” Asked Blanc.

“I did. This hotel’s so nice that I wanted to stay another night.” Neptune said. Neptune slid her shoes on and stood up. “So… Why don’t I go and get us some breakfast? Let Rom and Ram sleep a little longer?”

“Thanks Neptune, but are you sure?” Asked Blanc.

“Yeah I’m sure. I’m craving something with meat in it, so that’s why I want to go.” Neptune said, gesturing towards the door. “I’ll be back in a bit.” And with that Neptune headed outside to fetch them some breakfast.

Like the day before, Neptune walked down the many streets of the village in hopes of finding Nepgear, unfortunately she couldn’t find her sister anywhere. After placing an order for breakfast at a nearby restaurant, Neptune wandered around the building asking anyone if they had seen her sister.

However, she got the same responses she did the other day. First people acted shocked and horrified that they got separated, then they told her to ask Lowee security for help. “Thanks, but I did that already. Just have to keep looking.” Neptune said, forcing a smile.

After picking up her order, Neptune headed back to the hotel room. By the time Neptune returned, Rom and Ram were awake. “Morning Neptune.” Ram said.

“Good morning Neptune.” Said Rom, nervously.

“Good morning ladies! I hope you like food!” Neptune said, holding up a bag.

Neptune, Blanc, Rom and Ram sat around the small table as Neptune passed out the food. “I got steamed rice, miso soup and grilled fish.” Neptune said, handing the food out to her friends.

“Looks delicious.” Blanc said.

“Yuck!” Ram said. “But I’ll eat it I guess.”

“Looks yummy. Thanks Neptune.” Said Rom.

“You’re welcome.” Said Neptune, smiling brightly at Rom. Neptune began eating her meal. “Um… Blanc. Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.” Blanc said, as she reached over to Ram’s plate and began cutting her fish for her.

“Are you really Rom and Ram’s sister?” Neptune asked.
“Huh?” Blanc said, surprised. “What kind of question is that? We look practically alike don’t we?”

“Yeah.” Neptune said, mentally kicking herself. “Maybe I should… shut up?”

Blanc looked hard at Neptune for a moment, before she realized what Neptune really wanted to ask. “I get it. They’re young, correct?”

“Yeah…” Neptune said, nervously. “We really don’t have to talk about this. It’s none of my business. See? This is what happens when Nepgear isn’t around? She sets me straight!”

Blanc shook her head. “It’s okay.”

“What are you talking about?” Ram asked, as Blanc handed her chopsticks back over to her.

“Nothing I-” Neptune began.

“Neptune thinks that I might be your mother.” Said Blanc.

“Gross!” Ram said. “Blanc’s our big sister. Not mother.”

“That’s right.” Said Rom.

“What do you mean gross?” Blanc asked, before rolling her eyes. “Anyways, I’m their big sister.”

“Yeah. Of course.” Neptune said, nodding her head several times. “It’s like me and Nepgear. She’s my little sister, though I can’t remember our parents and I’m starting to think we didn’t have any.”

“Huh…” Ram said, tapping her lower lip thoughtfully. “Now that I think about it. I don’t remember my mom or dad either.”

“Same here Ram.” Said Rom.

Rom and Ram looked at Blanc. A look of concern could be seen in their faces. “Blanc? Who’s our mom and dad?” The girls asked in unison.

Blanc shook her head. “Don’t ask me.” Said Blanc. “I’m starting to think this has nothing to do with our memories being sealed away either.” Blanc took a deep breath, as she turned her eyes towards the ceiling. “There’s a lot of things that I’ve been remembering lately. Faces I could barely recall, memories that seem almost dream like.”

“Whoa…” Ram said. “Blanc? You sound really philosophical and cool right now.”

“Yeah!” Said Rom, her eyes were sparkling.

Blanc giggled. “Anyways Neptune, Rom and Ram? You should hurry and eat your breakfasts. We have a lot of walking to do today and I want to reach the next village before nightfall.”

“Right!” Neptune, Rom and Ram said in unison.

Blanc cleared her throat for a moment. The girl picked up her chopsticks and was about to start eating, when a memory came to her. A memory involving Neptune and Lady Purple Heart. Blanc’s eyes went wide, before they closed and a small smile appeared on Blanc’s lips. “I see…” She said, giggling.

“What is it?” Neptune asked.

“It’s nothing.” Blanc said, shaking her head. “Though… I would like to ask you a question, but I’ll hold off until we reach the second Fairy Tower.”

“Huh? Aww man… Ask me now!” Neptune said.

“No.” Said Blanc, shaking her head.

“You’re a meanie, but whatever.” Neptune said, as she started focusing on her breakfast. “I hope you’re eating well Nepgear.”

***

Nepgear leaned back in her seat and patted her stomach. “That was delicious. Thanks for cooking Cyberconnect2.” Nepgear said, as she smiled brightly at her friend.

“You’re welcome Nepgear. Glad you enjoyed my cooking.” Said Cyberconnect2, as she stood up and took Nepgear’s plate. “Let me get you some more orange juice.” The girl said, also taking Nepgear’s glass.

“Oh thanks, but I’ve had enough.” Said Nepgear, smiling warmly at her friend.

Nepgear took a deep breath as she leaned back in her chair. It had been a few days since she had woken up in Cyberconnect2’s home. Her new friend, who wore catears for some reason, had found her passed out in the snow. She had carried Nepgear back to her home and had been taking care of her ever since.

Nepgear wasn’t entirely sure what had happened at first, but as time went one she slowly remembered how she and Neptune had been attacked by Lady White Heart. She also remembered that she and her sister were on a mission to activate all the Fairy Tower’s in Lowee.

Nepgear winced in pain and grabbed her arm. “Goodness… I can’t believe it’s still hurting.” Nepgear said, looking down at her arm which was resting in a sling.

“Well it is still broken.” Said Cyberconnect2.

“I know, but I wish it wouldn’t throb so much.” Said Nepgear. “I’m glad there was a doctor here who could mend my arm. I don’t think I could have made it to the Fairy Tower with it broken like this.”

“Yeah. Walking would have been horrible.” Cyberconnect2 said, sighing deeply. “I’m really ashamed of my goddess. I mean, I still worship her, but how could she attack you like that? Especially considering the fact that you and your sister are on such an important mission!”

“Yeah.” Nepgear said. Nepgear’s eyes darted left and right, before she turned them to Cyberconnect2. “Cyberconnect2? I appreciate all your help, but I’m surprised you believed me about this mission. Why is that?”

“Why?” Cyberconnect2 asked. “Well, why not? You don’t seem to be the kind of person who would lie to me. That’s why I guess.”

“Oh. Well good.” Nepgear said, though Cyberconnect2’s answer was a bit odd. “Anyways. Thanks again for cooking.”

“Of course! Though to be honest with you. I wanted you to try the food from a local restaurant. They serve the best steamed rice, miso soup and grilled fish ever!” Said Cyberconnect2.

“Yeah? I’d love to try it sometime.” Said Nepgear. “I’d also love to stay in that hotel that’s shaped like a giant mushroom. That thing is awesome looking!”

“Shaped like? It’s an actual giant mushroom.” Cyberconnect2 said.

Nepgear’s eyes went wide? Seriously? That’s unreal!” Nepgear said.

“Seriously.” Said Cyberconnect2.

Nepgear took a deep breath, before she got to her feet and made her way over to her backpack. Reaching inside, she pulled out the other N-Gear she had been working on. Laying the device on the table she began pressing information into it. “Okay. It’s there.” Nepgear said.

“What are you looking at Nepgear?” Cyberconnect2 asked.

“I’m just getting directions to the first Fairy Tower. Goodness Cyberconnect2. I can’t believe how far you carried me.” Said Nepgear.

“Well to be honest, I didn’t carry you the whole way. I actually found someone driving through there on a snowmobile and hitched a ride.” Cyberconnect2 said, giggling nervously.

“Really? That’s cool.” Said Nepgear. “I just hope my sister’s still there. I’m really worried about her.”

“I’m sure she’s worried about you too.” Said Cyberconnect2.

Nepgear smiled at her friend. “Well. I hate to do this, but I should get going.”

Cyberconnect2 placed her hands on her hips and shook her head. “Not without me you aren’t!”

“Huh? No! I can’t ask you to come with me.” Said Nepgear.

“You’re not asking. I’m insisting.” Said Cyberconnect2. “Let me travel with you until we reach the Fairy Tower, okay? I’ll worry about you if I don’t. You can’t necessarily fight with a busted arm. Right?”

Nepgear looked down at her arm. “That’s true.” Nepgear said, nodding.

“Great!” Cyberconnect2 said. “Give me one minute and I’ll be ready to go.”

“Okay.” Nepgear said nodding.

Cyberconnect2 packed up a few things into a backpack and slung it over her shoulder. After that, she made her way over to Nepgear’s backpack and took it up. “Let’s get going.”

“Right. Thanks for carrying that.” Nepgear said, blushing a little. “Goodness. I feel useless.”

Cyberconnect2 shook her head. “Don’t. Were friends and friends help each other.” A thought suddenly came to Cyberconnect2. “Wait one second.” She said. The girl headed back into her bedroom and soon returned with a brown coat. “Here. You should wear this. That injuries going to make dealing with the cold worse.”

“Thanks.” Nepgear said, as Cyberconnect2 wrapped the coat around Nepgear‘s body. Nepgear slid her uninjured arm into one of the sleeves while the other dangled by her side. “Alright. Let’s get going!”

***

“Alright. Let’s get going!” Neptune said, as she threw her arm into the air. Neptune, Blanc, Rom and Ram headed out of the hotel and down the many streets of the village. As they walked, Neptune once again kept her eyes open for any signs of her sister. Even though Neptune wanted to stay in the village a little longer on the off chance that she would run into Nepgear, Neptune knew her quest couldn’t stop.

The sun was shining brightly that particular morning and the streets were filled with villagers who were going about their day like usual. It was a nice, bustling village filled with strange and wondrous architecture.

“This village was pretty nice. We should stay here again sometime.” Said Blanc, who held both of her sisters hands.

“Yeah. It was fun!” Said Rom

“It was pretty cool. What’d you think Neptune?” Ram asked.

“Lameburgers. No videogames, no secret pudding stash, nice comfortable beds and rooms. So nine out of ten stars.” Said Neptune.

“So hard to please.” Blanc said, a wry smile appeared on her lips.

“Yeah right, I-” Neptune stopped talking, when she noticed someone with light purple hair. Neptune turned and spotted two girls walking side-by-side. One wore green and white, with cat ears. The other wore a brown coat and she seemed to have short hair. The two girls had their backs to Neptune and looked like they were heading in the opposite direction.

“What’s wrong?” Blanc asked, noticing a strange look on Neptune’s face.

Neptune shook her head. “Nothing. I just thought I saw someone I knew.”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 92

 Neptune had spent most of the day playing video games with Rom and Ram. She ate pudding and genuinely enjoyed spending time with the girls. That night she fell into a deep sleep and in the morning, everyone was ready to start their journey fresh. “Alright! Let’s dot his thing!” Neptune said, as she stretched her arms high above her head before stretching out her legs.

“Are you feeling better?” Rom asked, a look of concern could be seen on her face.

“Yeah.” Neptune said, nodding her head. “I’m still worried about Nep Jr., but worrying isn’t going to accomplish anything. I need to get out there and find her!” Neptune said, more determined than ever.

“Good.” Said Blanc, who had been listening in. “Today we’ll head towards the first Fairy Tower, look around there a bit before heading to the second. The sooner we get more Fairy Tower’s activated, the better chance Histoire has of contacting her.”

“Right!” Neptune said. “Normally I would suggest you three do that while I stay here and play more video games, but I won’t even joke about it.”

“Good.” Blanc said, a familiar look appeared on her face. “That joke wouldn’t have landed very well.”

“R-Right.” Neptune said, giggling nervously.

After that the girls headed outside and made their way towards the Fairy Tower. “Good morning ladies.” Histoire said, once the girls were within earshot.

“Morning Histy. How goes it?” Neptune asked. “So… Have you…?” Neptune began.

Histoire knew exactly what Neptune was asking. Histoire closed her eyes and shook her head. “I’m afraid not. Lowee security is looking for her, but they haven’t reported anything yet. Also I did receive a message from Lady White Heart. She apologized for her actions.”

“Really?” Neptune said, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “Let’s see that message.”

“R-Right.” Histoire said, as the fairy-like girl gestured towards a nearby terminal

Neptune and Blanc moved over to the terminal to read the message. Ram also tried to read the message, but Blanc quickly covered her eyes. “Dear Histoire…” Neptune started to read aloud. “I’m- uh sorry that I attacked those- um… girls?” Neptune stopped reading. “She’s using a lot of flowery language here.”

“Yes. She’s got a temper problem.” Histoire said.

“I want to read! I want to read!” Ram cried, trying to get Blanc to uncover her eyes.

“That message isn’t for you Ram.” Blanc said, pulling Ram away from the terminal.

“Well… Anyways.” Neptune began. “Histoire? Please, please, please keep looking for Nepgear for me? Okay?”

“Of course I will. Nepgear is very important to me as well.” Histoire said, nodding.

“Thanks. Were heading towards the next Fairy Tower.” Neptune said, as she pulled out the N-Gear and began pressing commands into it.

“Histoire? If Nepgear does come back to this specific Fairy Tower, could you tell her to go to my house? It would be better if she holed up there for a while until we come back.” Said Blanc.

“Of course.” Said Histoire, nodding.

“Thanks.” Said Blanc. “The way to open the door is simple. She just needs to pull down on the knob. The lock is incredibly heavy, but I’m sure she’s strong enough to lift it.”

“Right.” Said Histoire. “I promise, I’ll look after her.”

Blanc nodded, before making her way over to Neptune who was looking down at the N-Gear. Displayed on the N-Gear’s screen was a map of Lowee. “Is that our next destination?” Blanc asked, pointing at a red dot on the screen.

“Yep! That’s numéro deux of our Lowee’s Fairy Tower tour.” Neptune said.

“I see…” Blanc said, narrowing her eyes at the screen. “That looks like Lowee’s Snowfield.”

“Is it dangerous there?” Neptune asked.

“It’s got a few strong monsters.” Said Blanc. “Neptune? Do you mind helping me keep an eye on my sisters? They’re pretty tough, but they’re still children.”

“Of course! I always look out for my team!” Neptune said, saluting.

“Thank you.” Blanc said, before turning to Rom and Ram. Blanc saw that her sisters were standing in front of Histoire. The girls looked like they were lost in a conversation.

“So? Do you have any video games?” Ram asked.

“I’m afraid not.” Histoire said.

“Boo! That sounds boring.” Ram said.

“Not at all. I don’t have the ability to feel boredom. Nor do I get tired, get angry, or nervous. I do mimic those feelings when appropriate, but I can’t actually have them.” Said Histoire. “Though… I do remember feeling nervous when a certain someone asked if she could take my Fairy Tower apart.”

Neptune smiled a small smile. “That sounds like Nepgear.” Neptune thought.

“Alright ladies. Say goodbye to Histoire. It’s time to go.” Blanc said, clapping her hands together.

“Boo!” Ram said, annoyed. “Anyways. Bye Histoire.”

“Bye, bye Histoire.” Rom said.

“Goodbye girls. Be good and listen to your big sisters.” Said Histoire.

“Ooh! I’m a temporary big sister?” Neptune said, pointing at herself.

“That’s right.” Histoire said. “Which means it’s up to you to lead by example. So no being a picky eater, no fighting over trivial matters and no staying up late playing video games.”

“Failed that test already.” Blanc said, a smirk appeared on her face.

“Ah man… This stinks…” Neptune said, her shoulders sagged. Rom and Ram ran over to Neptune and Blanc, after that they started making their way to Lowee’s Snowfield. As the girls walked, Rom and Ram kept running ahead, grabbing snowballs and throwing them at each other.

At one point Ram almost threw one at Blanc, but a single look from Blanc told her not to even try it.

“So. How far away is Lowee’s Snowfield?” Neptune asked.

“It should take us a few days to reach it. We’ll actually pass through several villages on our way, so I’d like to stop at least one of them for the night. I don’t like the idea of Rom and Ram camping out in this weather.” Said Blanc.

“Sure. I don’t mind!” Neptune said. “Staying in a village will make it easier to find Nepgear. Or for her to find us.”

“I agree.” Said Blanc.

The girls continued to walk, but stopped when they spotted a monster in the distance. The creature was humanoid in shape, but it’s body looked like it was made up of crystals. “Ice Golem.” Histoire said, narrowing her eyes at the creature.

“Is it tough?” Neptune asked.

Histoire shook her head. “Not really, but it might make good practice.” Said Blanc, as she held out her hand and summoned her weapon. Neptune was surprised to see Blanc wielded a giant hammer in her hands.

“Rom? Ram? With me.” Blanc said.

“Right!” Rom and Ram said, nearly in unison. Considering how soft spoken Rom was, she spoke a second after Ram did.

Rom and Ram summoned their weapons as well. They looked like pens, but were actually wands. “Let’s do this!” Ram said, narrowing her eyes at the Ice Golem.

“Yeah!” Rom said, nodding.

Blanc suddenly rushed forwards while Ram and Rom waved their wands. Magical energy appeared above the Ice Golem and started striking the monster. The Ice Golem turned it’s attention towards the girls and started floating over to them, but before it could get close Blanc appeared in front of it and swung her hammer hard.

The impact of Blanc’s hammer caused the Ice Golem to explode on impact. Nothing remained of the strange creature.

“Whoa!” Neptune said. “You three are awesome together!”

“Yeah, duh!” Ram said, a mischievous smile appeared on her face.

Neptune’s smile vanished when she noticed they had been surrounded. Creatures that looked like ghosts had appeared around them. The ghosts were blue in color and had large white eyes with black pupils. They also had a single antenna looking appendage poking out of the top of their heads, though some of these ghosts wore pink ribbons around them.

“Call Boy and Cold Girl monsters.” Blanc said, sighing deeply. “These things aren’t too bad.”

“Well I’m sure you three can take them, but what kind of girl would I be if I just stood here watching?” Neptune asked, as she summoned her katana. Neptune leapt at a group of the Call Boy and Cold Girl monsters and swung her sword. The katana sliced through several of the creatures destroying them utterly.

The monsters nearby began swarming around Neptune, but the girl was easily able to defeat them. “Oh no you don’t!” Neptune said, as she swung her sword and cut one of the creatures in two.

Blanc, Rom and Ram continued fighting as well. Blanc swung her giant hammer wildly, while Rom and Ram continued to use magic to reign energy attacks down on the creatures.

After a few moments of fighting, the monsters were completely decimated. “We did it!” Neptune said, cheerfully.

“Very good you two.” Blanc said.

“Yeah. We were awesome.” Neptune said, smiling proudly.

“She was talking to us you dork.” Ram said.

“Yeah. Us.” Said Rom.

“Oh, you flatter me.” Neptune said, blushing and waving her left hand dismissively.

“She’s not listening.” Ram said, in a small, bemused voice.

After Blanc sent her weapon away, she gestured for her sisters and Neptune to continue following her. The girls continued to walk for several long hours. Every once in a while they would have to fight another monster, but not that many got in their way. Soon the girls came to a village.

“This is the village I’d like us to stay in for the night.” Blanc said, turning to Neptune. “I’m sure my sisters are tired and hungry.”

“So hungry.” Ram said.

“Need food.” Said Rom, patting her tummy.

Neptune nodded. “I don’t mind. Just as long as they have some pudding and pudding oh and some pudding!”

Blanc led the girls through the village. “Here’s the hotel.” Blanc said, pointing at a nearby building.

Neptune was surprised once more. The hotel didn’t look like a regular building. Instead it looked like an enormous mushroom. “Is this a mushroom?” Neptune asked, pointing at the building.

“Yes?” Blanc said, furrowing her brows.

“Okay.” Neptune said, wondering if she had asked something strange.

The girls stepped into the giant mushroom building. The first room the girls stepped into was rather large. Despite the building being a mushroom, the floors, walls and ceiling were made of wood. A counter was located on the left side of the room and a staircase leading upwards was located on the right side.

“Hello.” Blanc said, stepping up to the room. “Can we get a room please?”

“Of course.” The lady behind the counter said. After paying the receptionist for the room, the girls took the key and headed up to the second floor. “This is us.” Blanc said.

“Wait…” Neptune began, looking around for a moment. “Do we get the entire second floor?”

“Yes?” Blanc said, furrowing her brows once more.

“Okay.” Neptune said, nodding. “Another stupid question?” Neptune wondered to herself.

Blanc slid the key into the lock and turned. After that the door was swung open and the girls could go inside. The room was rather large. Two beds were located on the right side of the room and two more were located on the left side. A table was located near the back of the room and a bathroom was located near the front entrance.

“This place is nice!” Ram said, finding a bed and bouncing on it.

“I’m sleeping here.” Rom said, jumping on Ram’s bed as well.

“This is nice.” Neptune said, glancing around. “So Blanc… About the money. Let me pay you back, okay?”

“No need.” Said Blanc. “It wasn’t that expensive.”

“Great.” Neptune said. “Well at least let me buy dinner for everyone.”

Blanc thought about arguing, but quickly changed her mind. “Sounds good. Thank you Neptune.”

“Of course, of course.” Neptune said, placing her hands on her hips. “So? What does everyone want to eat?”

Neptune took everyone’s orders. After getting some directions from the lady behind the counter, she set out to find a restaurant. As Neptune walked through the small village, she kept her eyes open for any signs of Nepgear.

“Nepgear? Are you here or what?” Neptune wondered, as she moved through the streets of the village.

When Neptune reached the restaurant she placed her order. While waiting she asked a few people if they’ve seen Nepgear, but all of them shook their heads. “Sorry. Is she missing?” A lady asked.

“Yeah. For a few days now.” Neptune said.

“Oh no. That’s horrible.” The woman said.

“You should contact Lowee’s security. I’m sure they can help.” Said a man.

“We did, but I still have to keep looking myself.” Said Neptune, sighing deeply.

“Of course.” The man said, nodding his head. “We’ll keep an eye out for her. If we find her we’ll contact Lowee security.”

“Thanks!” Neptune said, smiling brightly.

After Neptune collected the food for herself, Blanc, Rom and Ram she headed back to the hotel. Once again, Neptune kept an eye out for Nepgear, but couldn’t find her anywhere.

“I’m back!” Neptune said, as she carefully opened her rooms door.

“Food!” Ram said, throwing her hands triumphantly into the air. “I thought I was going to starve!”

“Sorry about that.” Neptune said, giggling.

“You’re fine.” Said Blanc. “So did you learn anything?”

Neptune shook her head. “Just that the restaurant I went to has the best pudding ever! It’s like magic!” Neptune said, as she sat the bags of food down on the table. Neptune reached into one of the bags and pulled out the pudding she was referring to. The pudding was white and blue in color and had a bunch of sprinkles on it. “I didn’t know you could make pudding like this!”

“Is that pudding?” Ram wondered.

“Of course!” Neptune said, as she pulled off the lid and stuck a spoon into it. “Magic pudding!”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 91

 Neptune had a difficult time getting to sleep that night and she knew it had nothing to do with the fact that she had slept for most of the day. Neptune’s thoughts were on Nepgear. Neptune needed to know where her sister was, if she was safe and warm, or if she was in trouble.

“Please be careful Nepgear. Be okay!” Neptune thought, as she kept rolling around in bed.

Blanc, Rom and Ram each shared a bed that was located on the other side of the small house. The house itself was small, but it felt cozy. A large fire place was located on the left side of the room, close to the front door of the building. A small table was located in the middle of the room where the girls ate their meals.

Located near the back of the house on the right side was a large television where Rom and Ram played their video games. Normally Neptune would have been very interested in seeing what kinds of games they owned, but Neptune couldn’t bring herself to try them out. Not when she knew her sister wasn’t around to enjoy them with her.

Neptune wasn’t sure when it happened, but she did manage to fall asleep. The following morning, Neptune felt a hand gently shake her awake. “Huh? Wh-what’s going on?” Neptune asked, sitting up.

“Big sister wanted you to get ready for breakfast.” Came the voice of Rom.

“Aww thanks Rom.” Neptune said, sitting up. “Has Nepgear had her breakfast yet or…” Neptune’s eyes went wide, before she turned them down towards her feet. “Oh right…”

“I’m sorry about your sister.” Rom began, trying to find the right words to comfort Neptune with. “But I’m sure she’s okay! We’ll find her soon!”

“Yeah. I know.” Neptune said, nodding her head several times. “I mean, the Fairy Tower was right there. I’m sure she’ll head there first thing in the morning. Heck she might even beat us there!” Neptune quickly got to her feet. “To be honest. I’m not really feeling hungry right now. We should-”

Before Neptune could finish speaking, Blanc entered the room. “We should eat breakfast first.” She said, gesturing towards the small table located in the middle of the room.

Neptune wanted to argue, but she remembered how scary Blanc could be. She didn’t have to yell, or threaten anyone. A mere look was enough to send chills down her spine. “Right.” Neptune said, giggling nervously.

Neptune took a seat at the table. After a moment Blanc placed a bowl of oatmeal down in front of her. “It’s not much, but it should fill us up.” Said Blanc. “I already visited the nearby village and bought supplies for us.”

Neptune nodded. It was at that moment the girl noticed four backpacks located near the front door of the house. One of the backpacks obviously belonged to Neptune, while the others belonged to Blanc and her sisters.

“You have cute backpacks Rom and Ram.” Neptune said, noticing the smaller backpacks matched the colors Rom and Ram wore.

“Our backpacks aren’t cute! Their awesome!” Ram said.

“Yeah. Awesome.” Said Rom.

Neptune giggled once more. “You two are cute. I bet Ram’s the oldest, huh?”

“No dummy! Rom is.” Said Ram.

“Ram. Please don’t insult our guest. That’s poor manners.” Said Blanc.

“Sorry.” Ram said.

“It’s okay. I didn’t take any offense.” Said Neptune, as she turned her eyes down towards her bowl of oatmeal. “This looks good! Down the hatch!” Neptune picked up a spoon and began eating her meal. Rom, Ram and Blanc quickly joined her. Once their bowls were emptied and Blanc did the dishes, the girls grabbed their backpacks and headed out.

Neptune walked several yards away from Blanc, Rom and Ram’s house before she stopped and began turning around in a circle. It didn’t take Neptune very long to spot the Fairy Tower.

“There’s the Fairy Tower. Is it the same one from yesterday?” Neptune wondered, aloud.

“That’s right.” Said Ram. “You were heavy too, but Rom and I carried you all the way out here!”

“No I‘m not and thanks!” Neptune said, placing her hands on her hips. “It’s weird. I didn’t notice your house yesterday. Though in all fairness, a goddess was trying to murderize me.” Neptune scratched her right cheek as she spoke.

“Lady White Heart is very protective of Lowee’s borders, but she doesn’t always come out this way. I doubt we’ll see her today.” Said Blanc.

“Yeah. Why come back out here when she thinks Nepgear and I…” Neptune’s words faded as her mind was filled with thoughts of Nepgear once more. Neptune took a deep breath and slowly let it out. “Well… Let’s get going.”

“Right.” Blanc said.

Blanc led Neptune, Rom and Ram over to the Fairy Tower. Once the girls reached the large machine, Neptune began scanning the area for any signs of her sister. However, As Neptune rounded the Fairy Tower twice, she quickly realized that Nepgear wasn’t there. “No…” Neptune said, sadly.

“It’s okay!” Rom said, in her usual soft spoken voice. “Nepgear’s fine.”

“Yeah. Cheer up already!” Ram said.

Neptune forced a smile, but wasn’t sure if she could believe Nepgear was actually okay. Neptune fished out the USB memory stick and stuck it into the USB port on one of the terminals located beneath the massive structure. A few moments later Histoire appeared.

“Congratulations Neptune and Nepgear. You’ve managed to….” Histoire began, but she stopped speaking when she noticed that Nepgear was missing. “Where’s Nepgear? Is she sleeping in or something? That doesn’t really sound like her though.”

“No.” Neptune said, shaking her head. “Yesterday Lady White Heart attacked and tried to kill us! Nepgear and I were separated and now I have no idea where she is!” Neptune said, sadly.

“Oh no.” Histoire said, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “It’s true that the original Histoire called out to Lady White Heart, but why would she attack you instead of help you?”

“She’s very protective of Lowee’s border.” Blanc said.

Histoire looked up and spotted Blanc, Rom and Ram standing a few feet behind Neptune. “Oh. Hello girls. Thank you for helping Neptune here.”

“You got it dude!” Ram said, saluting.

“Sure.” Said Rom.

“Girls… You’re being rude.” Said Blanc.

Histoire giggled as nervous looks appeared on Rom and Ram’s faces. “It’s alright girls.” Histoire said, before turning her eyes back to Neptune. “I still can’t believe Lady White Heart would attack you. I promise we’ll get to the bottom of this.”

“What should we do?” Neptune asked.

Histoire scratched her chin thoughtfully. “Well Nepgear does know what your quest is. And there are four more Fairy Towers that need to be activated. I’m sure she’ll meet you at one of them.”

“Yeah, but I have this.” Neptune said, holding up Nepgear’s N-Gear.

“Oh no…” Histoire said, sighing deeply. “Well in that case I’ll contact Lowee’s security and inform them about her. Hopefully they’ll find her before anything bad happens. While I’m doing that, I’ll also send a strongly worded email to Lady White Heart. She should be ashamed for attacking you two.”

“Agreed.” Neptune said, nodding her head several times.

“In the meantime. We’ll continue to activate the other four Fairy Towers in Lowee. If Nepgear happens to stumble upon any of them. Could you send her a message?” Blanc asked.

Histoire closed her eyes. After a few moments she opened them. “Yes. All the Fairy Towers in this area have reserved power. I can send a message to her via text. That is if she looks at the terminals.”

“Well considering how nosey Nepgear is about electronics. I’m sure she’ll look eventually.” Neptune said.

“So Nepgear’s a nerd? Boring!” Ram said.

“Ram…” Blanc said, placing a firm hand on Ram’s right shoulder.

Ram’s eyes went wide and the color drained from her cheeks. “S-sorry!” She breathed.

Neptune giggled. “Yeah. Nepgear’s a nerdy birdy, but I still love her.” Neptune took a deep breath and released it. “I guess we should start making our way towards the next Fairy Tower, huh?”

“Yes.” Said Histoire. “I’ll send the coordinates to the N-Gear. Can you access the device?”

“Yep. Nepgear gave me permission.” Said Neptune, looking down at the device. Neptune was hoping to find Nepgear at the Fairy Tower. Now that she’s realized that wasn’t going to happen, the girl started feeling depressed again. “Looks like the next Fairy Tower is over that way. Let’s go.” Neptune said.

Blanc watched as Neptune sadly started walking away from the Fairy Tower. “Poor Neptune.” Blanc said, in a small voice.

“I’m really sorry about this.” Histoire said. “Neptune and Nepgear have been activating the Fairy Towers together for months now. This must really be effecting her.”

“Not that I can blame her.” Blanc said. “If something happened to my sisters. I would be depressed too.”

Blanc watched as Neptune continued to walk away when suddenly the girl slipped and fell face first into the snow. Instead of getting up however, Neptune continued to lay down. “Aww… I feel bad for her.” Said Rom.

“She’s no fun to tease like this.” Said Ram.

“Good. Don’t tease her.” Blanc warned. “Also… Help her up okay? She looks so pitiful right now.”

Blanc watched as Neptune finally tried to standup, only to lose her grip and fall back down into the snow. Rom and Ram approached the girl, grabbed her arms and yanked her to her feet. “Thanks for helping.” Neptune said, as she continued her journey towards the next Fairy Tower.

“I better get going Histoire. Please keep us informed.” Said Blanc.

“Will do.” Histoire said, nodding.

Blanc began jogging in order to catch up to Neptune, though it didn’t take her long to accomplish this. “Neptune? You should try to pull yourself together. Nepgear’s only going to worry if she sees you so depressed.”

“Yeah… I know.” Neptune said, before she suddenly tripped and fell in the snow face first once more. Neptune slid a few inches before coming to a stop. “Uh-oh… I tripped again.”

Blanc sighed deeply before she reached down and pulled Neptune to her feet. “Come on Neptune. You literally tripped over nothing. Pull yourself together!” Blanc said, giving Neptune a gentle shake.

Neptune nodded her head once. “Alright. I’m sorry.” The girl said, before she started walking once more.

Blanc watched as Rom and Ram began running around. The girls gathered up snow in their hands, packed it into balls and flung them at one another. Her eyes then turned to Neptune who looked like she was about to fall over. “Alright! That’s it!” Blanc snapped.

Neptune, Rom and Ram instantly halted in their tracks and turned their eyes back towards Blanc. Blanc had her hands balled into tight fists and her teeth were bared. “Listen up you punks! I’m sick of this crap already!”

“Whoa!” Neptune said, holding up her hands in defense.

“No! I’m not going to whoa, hold on, or keep quiet! You three will shut up and listen to me!” Blanc snapped. “First off Neptune. Your sister is fine! I get you’re worried, I get your depressed, but you need to put that shit away and concentrate on this quest!”

“Gotcha.” Neptune said, giggling nervously and saluting.

“And you two!” Blanc said, turning her attention towards Rom and Ram. Blanc hesitated for a moment. “Well you two really weren’t doing anything wrong, so keep that shit up!”

“Gotcha sis!” Ram said.

“Right.” Rom said, standing slightly behind Ram for cover.

Blanc took a deep breath. “Sorry I lost my temper, but we need to focus on our quest. I actually think it’s a mistake to head towards the next Fairy Tower today. We should go back home and wait until tomorrow. That way we’ll give Nepgear another day to catch up to that Fairy Tower we were just at. Agreed?”

“Right.” Neptune said, nodding. Neptune didn’t notice it before, but Blanc had a concerned look on her face. “She’s doing all this for me, huh? Blanc’s such a softy!” Neptune thought.

“Cool. Let’s go back home.” Said Ram.

“I want to build a snowman.” Said Rom.

“And I want to check out your video games and raid your refrigerator for pudding.” Neptune said.

Blanc sighed deeply. “Now you’re being too relaxed.” The girl thought, before shaking it out of her head. “Oh whatever. Let’s go home.” Blanc said, taking Rom and Ram by the hands.

“Aww! Who’s going to hold my hand?” Neptune wondered. For a moment, Neptune felt herself getting depressed, but when that happened she slapped her cheeks. “No! I have to stay strong for Nepgear’s sake!”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 90

 Neptune opened her eyes. For a moment she forgot where she was, but when she noticed that her face was filled with Nepgear’s hair, she closed her eyes and hugged her sister close to her body. “Oh Nepgear… You’re so warm!”

“Thanks big sister…” Nepgear said, dreamily.

Neptune giggled as her sister sat up and started looking around the tent, her eyes were partially closed. Finally Nepgear looked down at her sister. “Did you crawl into my sleeping bag last night?” She asked.

Neptune shook her head. “Remember? We shared one. For body  heat and cuddles.” Said Neptune.

Nepgear didn’t say anything at first. Instead her body wobbled back and forth before she suddenly perked up a bit. “Oh right…” Nepgear said, taking a deep breath. “Well we better get going. We should reach Lowee this morning!”

“Sounds good to me.” Neptune said. After Nepgear crawled out of the sleeping bag, Neptune got up as well. The girls quickly put on their shoes and dismantled the tent. After having a quick breakfast of cereal bars, the girls started their journey once again.

The sun was shining brightly overhead and even though it was a little warmer that morning, it was still cold. The hot packs the girls used the previous day had been reheated and were currently keeping the girls warm. The snow on the ground had also grown bigger.

“You know what? I think I’m getting used to the cold.” Nepgear said. “I know it’s easy to do with the hot pack, but it’s not nearly as bad as it was yesterday.”

“Well you’re a fighter Nepgear. I think it’s freezing! Brr…” Neptune said, though her ‘brr’ sounded forced.

A few hours later the girls finally reached Lowee’s border, though they wouldn’t have known that if it wasn’t for Nepgear’s N-Gear. Nepgear held the N-Gear out in front of her and smiled warmly down at the screen. “We did it big sister! Were here!” Nepgear said, wanting to celebrate.

“Oh! I see the Fairy Tower!” Neptune said, pointing straight ahead. Nearly a mile away was the Fairy Tower. The large machine was a welcomed sight for the sisters. “Now we can finally get started in Lowee!” Neptune raised her foot, ready to start walking, but before she could take a single step a figure appeared before her.

The figure was short. She had light blue hair and was garbed in white. The girl also carried a large axe in her hands. “Who the hell are you bitches?” The girl demanded.

Neptune and Nepgear exchanged looks. Neptune, who still had her foot raised, lowered it back to the snowy ground. “My name’s Neptune!” Neptune said, smiling brightly. “And this is my sister Nepgear.”

“Hello.” Nepgear said, bowing to the girl in white.

“Nepgear and I have traveled from Planeptune all the way here to activate the Fairy Towers on Lowee! Were doing this so we can release our memories and the original Histoire. Histoire, by the way, is like a princess and we-”

“Sis?” Nepgear said, interrupting Neptune.

“Not now baby sister. Big sister is explaining our quest to the scary girl.” Said Neptune, matter-of-factly.

“I-I know, but she doesn’t look happy.” Said Nepgear, pointing at the girl in white.

Neptune turned to the girl in white and gasped. The girl’s eyes were narrowed and her jaw was clenched. The girl’s hands were shaking violently. “You stupid skanks! You admit to invading my land with those stupid smiles on your face? AM I A FREAKING JOKE YOU!?

“Wait… is that Lady White Heart?” Neptune asked.

“You bet your stupid asses I am!” Lady White Heart shouted, as a gust of wind ripped past her and struck Neptune and Nepgear in the faces. “My name is Lady White Heart! I’m the goddess of Lowee! You think you can invade my land and get away with it?! DO YOU?!”

“Uh…” Neptune began. “Yeah?”

Nepgear covered her face with her hands. “No Neptune! No!”

“YOU’RE FREAKING DEAD!” Lady White Heart roared. The small girl leapt at Neptune and swung her axe hard.

Neptune held up her right hand and managed to summon her barrier in time. The axe struck the barrier blocking the attack, but the attack was so powerful that Neptune felt her feet leave the ground and was thrown several yards away. Neptune landed a few feet away. “Whoa! She’s tough!” Neptune cried.

“NEPTUNE!” Nepgear cried, as she summoned her energy sword.

Lady White Heart turned her eyes angrily towards Nepgear and attacked her next. Nepgear managed to parry a few attacks launched at her, but Lady White Heart was faster.

Lady White Heart slammed her axe into the ground and kicked Nepgear hard in the chest, sending her reeling backwards. After that she swung her axe horizontally, the head of the axe started from the ground before it slashed past Nepgear’s face, missing her nose by mere inches.

“Wait! Lady White Heart!” Nepgear cried, as she dodged the goddesses axe once more. “SHUT UP! SHUT UP!” Lady White Heart roared as she continued to swing her axe wildly around her.

Nepgear continued to dodge and parry Lady White Heart’s attacks. After the fifth swing, Nepgear activated her barrier and like Neptune she was launched into the air.

Without missing a beat, Lady White Heart twirled around and swung her axe at Neptune, who was trying to sneak up on her. Neptune only managed to activate her barrier before she was launched into the air as well.

This time, Neptune didn’t come down a few yards away. Instead she flew high into the air. “WHOA!” Neptune cried, before Lady White Heart suddenly appeared over her, holding her axe high over her head.

“DIE!” Lady White Heart cried, as she brought her axe down hard.

Neptune summoned her katana and held it out in front of her. Lady White Heart’s axe came down hard and smashed into Neptune’s katana. Neptune screamed as she slammed into the ground and vanished into the snow.

“WHERE ARE YOU?!” Lady White Heart demanded, as she scanned the area for the intruders. “Gone… Did I kill them?” Lady White Heart scanned the area for a few more moments, before she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “I better get back home. I’m sure my sisters are terrified.” And with that, Lady White Heart flew towards the city of Lowee.

***

Neptune groaned loudly. The fight against Lady White Heart had taken a lot out of her. Her arms and legs were sore. So sore that she wasn’t able to move them. “Hmm?” Neptune said, as she pulled on her arms and legs. It was at that moment the girl realized that the reason she wasn’t able to move them was because they had been tied down.

“She’s waking up.” A voice said.

Neptune opened her eyes and saw that she was in a large room. The room was dark, but there was light coming from a nearby fireplace. Neptune took a deep breath as she closed her eyes tightly for a moment before opening them. It was at that moment, Neptune saw that she was looking into the eyes of two girls who looked nearly identical.

“Huh? Where am I?” Neptune asked. Neptune tried to move her arms and legs again, but couldn’t budge them. Looking up and down, Neptune saw that  she had been tied to the four corners of a bed . “And why am I tied up like this? I’m not into this kind of thing you know…”

“Hey lady.” Said a girl in red. “We saw you fighting Lady White Heart. After she kicked your butt we carried you here.”

“Th-That’s right.” Said the girl in blue. Both the girl in red and blue were sitting on both sides of Neptune.

“Really? That’s nice.” Said Neptune, smiling nervously. “So why did you tie me up like this?”

“Cause were going to interrogate the heck out of you!” Said the girl in red. “Isn’t that right Rom?”

“Yep! That’s right Ram.” Said the girl in blue.

“Whoa now! I’ll tell you anything you want to know!” Said Neptune.

“Oh? Then what’s one billion trillion times a trillion billion?” Ram asked.

Neptune furrowed her brows. “Uh… One?” Neptune offered.

“Wrong answer! Come on Rom!” Said Ram.

“Right!” Said Rom, nodding.

Ram and Rom dug their fingers into Neptune’s armpits and ribs and started tickling. Neptune instantly burst into laughter and began wriggling wildly on the bed. “You better start talking or we’ll never stop!” Ram warned.

“Never stop.” Said Rom.

Neptune howled with ticklish laughter. She desperately tried to pull down her arms and legs, but she had been tied down too tightly. “STOP- PLEASE!” Neptune cried, as her cheeks grew bright red.

The door in the room suddenly opened and another girl stepped inside carrying firewood. “You two. Stop.” Said a calm voice.

Rom and Ram halted their torture and turned to the person who spoke to them. “Oh come on big sis! She’s a spy!”

“No she’s not.” The voice said.

A few moments later a third face appeared over Neptune’s. This girl also looked a bit like Rom and Ram, except she looked slightly older. “Are you alright? Your names Neptune, correct?” The girl said. “I’m sorry about my little sisters. They can be trouble makers.”

The girl reached down and untied Neptune’s arms.

“Thanks.” Neptune said, sitting up. “You little munchkins almost tickled me to death!” Neptune said.

“Apologize you two.” Said the third girl.

“But sis!” Ram began.

The third girl didn’t say anything. All she did was turn her eyes towards her sister. Neptune felt a shiver run down her spine. Even though the third girl looked calm, Neptune could tell that she wasn’t someone you wanted to upset.

“Were sorry.” Said Rom.

“Sorry.” Said Ram.

“It’s cool!” Neptune said, waving her right hand dismissively. “No harm done.”

Rom and Ram climbed off the bed and made their way over to a nearby television. The third girl however, finished untying Neptune’s feet. “My name is Blanc by the way.”

“Nice to meetcha Blanc!” Neptune said, saluting. “I guess you got my name from Nepgear, huh?”

“Nepgear? No.” Blanc said. “I got your name from Histoire. She told me you were coming and what you and your sister look like. I’m sorry, but I haven’t seen your sister anywhere.”

“Huh?” Neptune said, shocked. “Th-That can’t be. She was with me just a minute ago! Maybe Rom and Ram have her tied up in a closet or something.” Neptune got to her feet, but nearly fell over.

“Careful.” Said Blanc, catching Neptune before she could hit the ground. “Lady White Heart went all out trying to kill you.”

“Lady White Heart? Oh yeah… Wait!” Neptune said, shocked.

“It’s okay.” Blanc said, helping Neptune back down on the bed. “I didn’t see any bodies out there, but I did find this.” Blanc reached into her pocket and removed a familiar device. “Does this belong to you?”

Neptune felt a lump form in her throat. “No…” Neptune said, taking the device. “This is my sisters N-Gear.”

Blanc took a deep breath. “I’m so sorry Neptune. I looked everywhere for your sister, but I couldn’t find her anywhere. Perhaps Histoire will know. We should hurry to the Fairy Tower soon, but we should wait until morning.”

“Morning?” Neptune said, confused.

“Yes. You’ve been asleep nearly all day. It’s night time now.” Said Blanc.

“W-Wait. I can’t just go to sleep! Nepgear’s out there somewhere. She’s going to be cold and lonely without me! What should I do?” Neptune asked, her voice shook in her throat.

Blanc slowly shook her head. “I know how you feel, but right now it’s too dangerous to go out there and look for her. The temperature has dropped and monsters are roaming around right now. I promise you, your sister is okay. We just have to be patient and look for her.”

“That’s right you dummy!” Ram said, who had been playing a video game. “I don’t know who your sister is, but she’s tough. She blocked and dodged Lady White Heart’s attacks like a pro.”

“That’s right.” Said Rom.

“Girls? Be nice.” Blanc said, before turning her attention back to Neptune. “Is it okay Neptune?”

Neptune forced a smile and nodded. “Yeah. Nepgear’s one tough cookie. I’m sure she’ll be fine.” Neptune said, but her head was filled with doubt. “And I’m sure we’ll find her soon enough.” Neptune looked down at Nepgear’s N-Gear and hugged it close to her chest. “Please be alright Nepgear.”