Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 103

 Neptune glanced around the area for a moment. Nothing seemed to have changed. The sky was still blue, the sun was still shining and the snow was still cold. “Uh… What’s going on?” Neptune wondered, aloud.

“Pardon me.” Histoire began. “Everything is proceeding as planned, were just waiting for the original Histoire to appear. After that, the Histoire AI will upload data to the original Histoire. After that-” The holographic image of Histoire stopped talking before she could finish her sentence and then her image vanished.

“Is that a bad thing?” Uni asked.

Nepgear pulled out her N-Gear and looked down at the screen. “Look. There’s some kind of signal coming from the Fairy Tower.” Nepgear said, turning the N-Gear so Uni could see it.

“What does that mean?” Uni asked.

“I don’t know. Maybe…” Nepgear began, but she stopped talking when a tiny figure’s silhouette appeared in front of Neptune. Nepgear swallowed hard. Tears welled up in the corners of her eyes. “Histoire?” Nepgear breathed.

“Hiya Histy.” Neptune said, as she giggled and scratched the back of her head. Tears welled up in the corners of her eyes as well.

Histoire’s form became more and more solid. Soon the tiny fairy-like girl was floating in front of Neptune. Histoire, the real one, took a deep breath and opened her eyes. “Hello Neptune.” Histoire began, before she turned to Nepgear and Uni. “Hello girls. It’s a pleasure to see you again.”

“H-Hello.” Nepgear said.

“Hello miss Histoire.” Uni said, bowing her head a little.

“Oh Histy!” Neptune cried, as she threw her arms around Histoire and hugged the girl close to her chest. “I missed you so much! I’m sorry it took us so long to rescue you!” Neptune sobbed.

Histoire giggled. “It’s okay Neptune. According to the Fairy Tower’s AI, everyone worked very hard. I appreciate it.”

“Of course!” Uni said, smiling proudly. “So what’s going on anyways?”

Nepgear nodded. “That is a good question. The last thing I remember is getting a distress call from you Histoire.”

Histoire nodded. “I do understand that, but I think we should gather everyone up first. We should probably head back to Planeptune.”

“Sounds good to me!” Neptune said. “I can’t wait to get back to my Basilicom, play video games and eat pudding until I explode!”

“No. You have work to do Neptune.” Histoire said, in a stern voice.

“Oh. I’m sure Nepgear can handle it.” Neptune said.

“Hey!” Nepgear said, fearfully. “You have to help me Neptune! I can’t do the rest without you!”

Neptune couldn’t help, but laugh. “Oh come on Nep Jr.. Do you really think I’d sit around the Basilicom all day instead of finishing this quest? No way!” Neptune said, waving her hand dismissively. “Anyways. Nepgear? Could you send a message to everyone? Ask them to meet us at Planeptune’s Basilicom.”

Nepgear nodded. “You got it sis!”

***

Even though Neptune said she was eager to finish the quest, that didn’t stop her from plopping down on a beanbag and start eating pudding. Even though Neptune, Nepgear and Histoire hadn’t been to the Basilicom in months, the guards welcomed them eagerly. “Again. I’m so sorry we forgot about you.” One of the guards said, nervously.

“That’s no one’s fault.” Nepgear said, blushing a little. “Please. Put it out of your minds. We don’t hold any grudges.”

“Nope! We hold pudding!” Neptune said, holding up the pudding cup she was currently emptying into her stomach.

“Thank you for being so understanding.” The guard said, turning to leave. “Oh! Goddesses?”

“Yes?” Nepgear asked.

“Welcome home.” The guard said, before finally taking his leave.

“That guy’s pretty sweet.” Nepgear said.

“He’s probably hurting.” Said Histoire. “A lot of people are probably hurting right now. Who knows everything they were made to forget.”

“Yeah. It’s bad.” Neptune said, her mouth was filled with pudding.

Uni groaned loudly as she watched Neptune continue to eat the pudding. “Miss Neptune. Should you really be doing that right now? Were about to have a big meeting you know.”

“Yeah, yeah. I know what you’re saying.” Neptune said. Uni smiled joyfully, until Neptune pointed at a nearby refrigerator. “You can have some pudding too Uni. Oh and get me another one.”

“No.” Uni said, crossing her arms in front of her chest.

A few moments later the doors to the large conference room opened and Green Heart, White Heart and Black Heart stepped into the room. White Heart glanced around the large conference room until her eyes landed on Nepgear. “Nepgear?” White Heart began.

“Y-Yes!?” Nepgear squeaked.

Neptune jumped to her feet, the pudding cup she had been holding bounced off her chest and flew across the room. “Halt!” Neptune said, as she summoned her katana. “Friend or foe?”

White Heart smirked. “Friend you dork.”  White Heart turned her eyes back to Nepgear. “I wanted to say that I’m sorry for attacking you.”

“Lady Blanc?” Nepgear asked.

White Heart nodded before she turned back into her human form. “It was shortly after you three activated the final Fairy Tower. I reminded White Heart who she really was and we became one again.”

“I see.” Nepgear said, happily. “What about Rom and Ram?”

Blanc turned to the door as her sisters, in their CPU forms entered the room. “Hey everyone!” White Sister Ram said, smiling brightly.

“H-Hello.” White Sister Rom said, smiling nervously.

“They regained their CPU candidate forms.” Said Blanc.

“Excellent!” Nepgear said. “I have to ask… Was White Heart mean to them?”

Blanc shook her head. “Thankfully no. The twins here were obsessed with pulling pranks though. White Heart knew that if they tried that with her, she might do something she’d regret. So she had them locked away. Locking them away was mean, but they had plenty of things to focus on.”

“I see…” Nepgear said.

“Yeah. Mina was nice to us.” White Sister Ram said.

“She… Gave us candy.” White Sister Rom said, blushing a little.

“That’s good.” Said Nepgear, smiling.

Black Heart changed into her human form as well. Making her way across the room she patted Uni on the head. “You did good Uni.”

“Thanks.” Uni said, happily.

The doors to the room opened again and Nepgear gasped. Falcom, MAGES., Red, Marvy, Cyberconnect2, 5pb., Cave and Broccoli, stepped into the room.

“You all came!” Nepgear said, close to tears once more.

“Don’t forget about us.” Said IF.

Nepgear gasped once more. IF, Compa and Arfoire stepped into the room. “Hey girls I…” Neptune began, but she gasped when she saw Arfoire. “Whoa! Arfoire? What are you doing here?”

“Hello.” Arfoire said, in a small voice.

“Arfoire has a story for everyone.” Said Compa.

After everyone took a seat, Arfoire cleared her throat and started speaking. “Months back before everyone’s memories were sealed away.” Arfoire began, her voice shook as she spoke. “I was approached by the goddess Rei Ryghts.”

“Rei Ryghts? The goddess of Tari?” Blanc asked.

“That’s correct.” Arfoire said, nodding.

“Didn’t we kick her butt a while ago?” Neptune asked. “We need to stop recycling bad guys.”

“You did.” Arfoire said.

“Let’s hear what Arfoire has to say.” Said Nepgear.

“Thanks Nepgear.” Arfoire said, forcing a smile. “Anyways. Rei Ryghts approached me. She told me she had a plan to steal a bunch of share energy and she needed my help to accomplish this.”

“Help in what way?” Asked Histoire.

“She wanted me to stop the goddesses from approaching her location. A cave at Planeptune’s border. I’m not sure what’s actually out there, but that’s what she wanted me to do.” Arfoire explained. “I refused however and she didn’t take this lightly. So she sealed my memories. All of them. Almost like Purple Sister.”

“Really? I wonder why she didn’t do that to everyone.” Said Noire.

Arfoire shook her head. “However. Unlike the rest of you, I didn’t get my memories back normally. Instead, my memories came back in painful spurts and the only memories I got back were the ones involving our past fights.”

“Oh geesh.” Neptune said.

“I remembered that I used to hate all of you. That’s why I kidnapped Compa.” Said Arfoire.

“What?!” Neptune said, jumping to her feet. “You kidnapped Compa? That earned you a spanking Arfoire!”

“I deserve it.” Arfoire said, sadly.

Compa held up her hands. “It’s okay everyone. Arfoire’s already repented. Let it go please.”

IF took a deep breath. “Don’t worry Nep. I smacked her around for a while and got Compa back.”

Neptune took a deep breath as she sank back into her chair. “Well… Alright…”

Histoire cleared her throat. “Now then.” Histoire began. “I should tell everyone what happened to me.” Histoire closed her eyes as though she were trying to remember. “Three months and thirteen days ago. I was in Planeptune’s Basilicom trying to figure out who could have moved some Fairy Towers in Planeptune.”

“As all of you know. Only a goddess is allowed to move a Fairy Tower. At first I thought it was Neptune, but I quickly realized it was another goddess. Rei Ryghts.” Said Histoire, noticing that Nepgear was holding up her hand.

“How did you figure that out?” Nepgear asked.

“Simple. Rei Ryghts had appeared before me and kidnapped me.” Histoire said. “She must have used some kind of teleporting technology to get inside the Basilicom, because she didn’t set off any alarms. Rei Ryghts took me and brought me to a giant cave. I didn’t have time to look around, but I did notice a very large stone in the cavern.”

“Uh… Isn’t that normal? Stone in cavern?” Neptune asked.

Histoire sighed deeply. “Neptune. I wouldn’t have brought it up if it was normal. This stone felt strange. I could sense share energy being absorbed into the stone.”

“So Rei Ryghts has some kind of stone that can absorb share energy?” Noire asked.

“That’s not good, but it’s not totally bad either.” Said Blanc. “Our stats are pretty much maxed out.”

“True.” Said Vert. “But Rei Ryghts isn’t stupid. I doubt she did this just so she could max out her stats.”

“Vert is correct.” Said Histoire. “I could be wrong, but I hypothesize that Rei Ryghts did all this so she could overwrite the limits of the Fairy Towers.”

“Overwrite them?” Nepgear said, furrowing her brows.

“Yes.” Histoire said, nodding. “As you all know. The Fairy Towers only allows you to increase your stats to a certain amount. This is done for safety reasons. Not just for the wielder of this power, but also for the world around them. However, if you feed enough share energy into the Fairy Towers, you can overwrite them”

“So Rei’s trying to increase her level cap, huh?” Neptune said, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “How dastardly!”

“If she had unlimited access to that share absorbing stone, she wouldn’t have needed to seal away all our memories, separate us from our goddess forms and sealed away Histoire. Right?” Said Noire.

“You forget. Rei Ryghts also sealed away monsters and those monsters were released as the Fairy Tower’s were reactivated.” Said Histoire.

“Oh yeah, but it always felt like there were monsters around. I didn’t even notice the new ones coming in.” Said Noire.

“Still…” Nepgear began. “Some of this doesn’t make sense. Why did she completely seal away Arfoire and Purple Sister’s memories? Also Purple Sister never got any old memories back.”

Neptune began laughing evilly. “Those are all questions we can ask Rei Ryghts herself!” Neptune said, getting to her feet. “Come on girls! It’s time to go!”

“Hold on Neptune!” Histoire said, flying in front of Neptune and holding up her hands. “I can understand your eagerness, but we should proceed carefully. We need to know what’s happening outside that cavern. Also how are we going to get everyone there?”

Neptune smiled brightly. “Easy Histy! Ole Neptune’s been scheming a scheme since she got back!”

Histoire’s arms dropped lifelessly to her sides. “I have no idea what you just said.”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 102

The following morning IF felt ready to rescue Compa. Thanks to her friends, IF had managed to battle enough Reglus monsters in order to increase her strength. At the very beginning, she needed everyone’s help just to defeat one. Now she was able to easily defeat one all by herself.

Even though IF was grateful for their help, she couldn’t quite understand why Cave kept saying, ‘these Regulus are about to become regulars’.

IF had worked all through the night and now she was ready to go. “Thanks for everything ladies. I wish I could stay longer, but I really need to get going.” IF said, turning to her friends and bowing a little.

“Already?” Said 5pb., surprised. “I wanted to make breakfast for everyone.”

“I wish I could stay, but I really have to get going.” IF said. IF wanted to tell her friends why she needed to leave, but didn’t want them to get involved. “They need to keep training and getting even stronger.” IF thought to herself.

“IF, nyu?” Broccoli began.

“What’s up Broccoli?” IF asked.

“You have an important quest, right nyu?” Broccoli asked.

IF didn’t say anything. She couldn’t. IF was too busy trying her best to hide her surprise. “She does?” Marvy said, looking from Broccoli to IF. “You’re always so observant Broccoli.”

“Broccoli observes everything, nyu.” Broccoli said, smiling proudly. “Anyways, nyu. Good luck, nyu.” Broccoli said.

A small smile appeared on IF’s lips. “Thanks Broccoli.” She said, turning towards the Fairy Tower. “Histoire? You know where to take me.”

“Right.” Histoire said, nodding.

IF’s vision turned white and soon IF was standing at the Fairy Tower she used to teleport before. The beam of light Arfoire created was still there. “I’m coming right now Compa.” IF breathed, as she started running as fast as she could towards the light.

***

Green Heart and Black Heart spotted the Fairy Tower far below. Landing gracefully a few feet away, the two goddesses made their way towards the Fairy Tower and inserted the USB memory stick.

Moments later, Histoire appeared. “Great work. I’m sending the coordinates to Nepgear’s N-Gear.” Histoire said, smiling brightly. “I can’t believe it. Only one more Fairy Tower is left. This quest is almost finished.”

“Almost…” Green Heart said, smiling warmly at Histoire.

“Tell me Histoire.” Black Heart began, crossing her arms in front of her chest. “Where exactly is the original Histoire anyways? If she’s sealed away somewhere in Gamindustri, Green Heart and I can hurry over there now and get ready to grab her.”

“That won’t be necessary.” Histoire said, shaking her head. “The original Histoire will actually appear outside the final Fairy Tower.”

“Ah. So Neptune and the others will meet up with her first, huh?” Black Heart said. “That seems fitting.”

“Yes.” Histoire said, nodding.

“Alright.” Green Heart said, taking a deep breath. “Black Heart? Are you ready to head back?”

“I’m ready.” Said Black Heart.

***

“Alright. I just got the coordinates to the next Fairy Tower.” Nepgear said, looking down at the N-Gear she held in her hands. “The location isn’t that far from here.”

“Good to hear!” Neptune said. “Well Nepgear? Uni? Ready to-” Before Neptune could say another word, a loud scream came from outside. Neptune’s eye went wide. “Whoa… Did we forget to pay for the room or something?” Neptune whispered.

Blanc took a deep breath. “Rom? Ram? You stay here with Cyberconnect2. Cyberconnect2? Please keep an eye on my little sisters.”

“Yeah, but…” Cyberconnect2 said, confused.

Blanc didn’t say anything as she made her way towards a large curtain. Pulling the curtain back, everyone in the room was surprised to see Lady White Heart standing on the balcony. The goddess was shaking with anger. “You bitches!” White Heart snapped. “I tried to keep calm! I tried to stay out of everyone’s way, but you pushed it too far!”

Blanc didn’t say a word as she opened the door to the balcony and stepped outside. “In what way Lady White Heart?”

“YOU!” Lady White Heart snapped. “You called yourself and those puny brats over there the true goddess and goddess candidates of Lowee! HOW DARE YOU!”

“It’s complicated, but it’s true.” Blanc said, taking a deep breath. “And you know it’s true as well. You’re starting to feel it can’t you?”

“Nope! What I’m feeling now is the desire to cut you in half!” Lady White Heart summoned her axe and swung it hard.

Blanc quickly summoned a giant mallet and blocked the attack. At first everyone in the hotel room gasped as smoke and debris enveloped their friend and the goddess. However, when that smoke vanished, they were relieved to see Blanc was still on the balcony. Not only that, but she was also managing to keep her defenses up.

“You little… How are you this strong!?” Lady White Heart demanded.

“You know the answer to that. Deep down.” Blanc said, before she pushed Lady White Heart away. Blanc glanced over her shoulder at Neptune, Nepgear and Uni. “Aren’t you three supposed to be somewhere right now?” She asked.

“R-Right.” Nepgear said, nodding.

“Yeah. We’ll leave you to you.” Neptune said, giggling nervously.

Neptune, Nepgear and Uni each transformed and flew out of the hotel. “WAIT!” Lady White Heart snapped.

“Over here…” Blanc said, as she swung her mallet at Lady White Heart and knocked her off the balcony.

Lady White Heart flew thorough the air, before she managed to stop herself. White Heart turned her eyes angrily towards Purple Heart, Purple Sister and Black Sister. “If you leave. I’ll tell everyone that I kicked your ass.” Blanc said, smirking.

White Heart turned her eyes angrily towards Blanc. “You little… DIE!” White Heart flew at Blanc as fast as she could ready to attack, but Blanc was ready for her.

***

IF reached the beam of light. Without wasting any time she made her way into the light and now found herself standing in another dimension. The horizon of this dimension looked dark, but numbers and letters flashed by. The ground looked like it was made up of red, yellow and blue colored blocks as well.

IF stood on a large platform. Located in front of her was a bridge that led to an even larger platform. “Compa?” IF said, spotting her friend sitting on her knees on that bigger platform.

Compa was looking down at her hands, but looked up when she heard her name. “Iffy?” Compa called out.

“I’m coming Compa!” IF said, as she slowly made her way closer and closer to Compa. As IF walked, she quickly looked all around her, hoping to find some trace of Arfoire. “Where’s Arfoire?”

“I don’t know. When we got here there were tons of monsters, but she killed them all.” Said Compa.

“It’s okay.” IF said, as she got closer and closer. “Did she hurt you?”

Compa shook her head. “No, but Arfoire looked like she was in a lot of pain.”

“Good.” IF thought. “It’s fine Compa. I’m going to get you out of here and then I’ll take care of Arfoire.”

“Take care of me?” Came a voice.

IF looked up. Flying high overhead was Arfoire. The woman’s face was drenched in sweat. Her breathing was jagged and her hair looked like a mess. Arfoire landed gracefully on the ground and nearly fell over.

“Arfoire!” IF said, as she summoned her weapons.

“Where are the goddesses?” Arfoire demanded. “I want Neptune! I want her dead!”

“Who cares? The goddesses are busy doing more important things, so I’m here to deal with you!” IF said.

“How dare you.” Arfoire breathed.

“HOW DARE YOU!” IF screamed. “If you want to hate me, Neptune and the other goddesses and want us dead. Fine! But Compa didn’t deserve this! She cared and worried about you more than anyone!”

Arfoire giggled. “Her mistake.”

“No.” IF said, shaking her head. “Your mistake!” And with that IF leapt at Arfoire and swung her blades at the woman.

Arfoire giggled as she raised her sword and blocked the attack, but before she could do anything else, IF slammed her forehead into Arfoire’s nose. Arfoire screamed in pain as she stumbled backwards.

IF didn’t miss a beat as she ran forwards and slammed the heel of her right foot into Arfoire’s chest, sending the woman into the ground. Arfoire bounced across the ground for a few feet, before jumping to her feet.

“Damn it!” Arfoire roared, as she leapt at IF and swung her sword at the girl.

Arfoire gasped as IF leapt into the air, avoiding the sword by mere inches. Moments later IF landed on the ground behind Arfoire and kicked the woman in the small of the back, sending her toppling forwards.

IF didn’t miss a beat. She ran at Arfoire and swung her katar’s as hard as she could at Arfoire. Arfoire managed to block the attack, but this time she kept her face well away from IF’s. “N-Not bad…” Arfoire said, as more and more pain ripped through her body. “I’m surprised. I thought you might try to talk me out of this, or tickle me or something. I wasn’t expecting you to actually try to kill me.”

“You shouldn’t have taken my Compa.” IF said, through gritted teeth.

Compa sat on her knees watching as the battle continued. Even though she loved IF and was happy to see her friend, she wasn’t happy to see what IF and Arfoire were doing. Compa folded her hands in front of her and closed her eyes. “Please IF…” Compa thought bitterly. “Don’t kill anyone.”

***

Purple Heart, Purple Sister and Black Sister flew as fast as they could to the final Fairy Tower. As the girls flew, Neptune kept thinking about Blanc fighting White Heart. “I really hope Blanc’s okay!” Neptune thought.

Even though the girls had regained their goddess forms, they still felt like they weren’t able to fly fast enough. The girls felt like it was taking them too long.

“There!” Purple Sister said, pointing at the final Fairy Tower.

“Great! I’m going!” Purple Heart cried, as she flew down to the Fairy Tower as fast as she could. After transforming back into her human form, Neptune slid the USB memory stick into the terminal and waited until the final Fairy Tower activated. “I did it! This is it!” Neptune cheered, as she threw her hands into the air.

“Congratulations Neptune.” Histoire said, as her holographic body appeared. “You did it.”

Purple Sister and Black Sister landed a few feet away from Neptune and changed back into their human forms. “Awesome! This is it!” Nepgear said, folding her hands together in front of her.

“Finally. It’s over!” Uni said, happily.

“Not yet.” Histoire said, closing her eyes. “There’s still a bit more to go.”

***

IF and Arfoire’s battle intensified. Even though Arfoire managed to get a few attacks in on IF, IF was much stronger and faster. Her attacks were efficient and slowly they began wearing Arfoire down.

“I can’t… Keep up… She might actually kill me.” Arfoire thought, as she took a defensive stance and blocked as many of IF’s attacks as she could. After blocking five slashes of IF’s blades, she launched one of her own, but IF blocked the attack and with a flick of her wrists sent Arfoire’s sword flying away.

“This is it!” IF roared, as she kicked Arfoire in the chest sending her flying backwards.

Arfoire slammed into the ground and was about to get up, but she couldn’t feel her legs. “This is it.” Arfoire said, smirking. “Make it good.” Just as the words left Arfoire’s mouth, her memories returned and the pain stopped.

IF ran forwards and was about to cut Arfoire down, when Compa suddenly appeared in front of her. Compa held her arms out, a terrified look appeared on her face. “Iffy!” Compa cried.

IF skidded to a halt. “Compa! What are you doing?”

Tears began streaming down Compa’s cheeks. “Stop it Iffy! Don’t do this!” The girl cried.

IF opened her mouth to say something, but no words came out. All IF could do was stand there looking at Compa. Suddenly IF felt ashamed. She looked down at her hands and sent her weapons away. “C-Compa… I… I mean…” IF stammered.

Compa didn’t say anything. Instead she walked up to IF and threw her arms around her friend. “It’s okay.” Compa said, stroking the back of IF’s head. “Everything’s okay now.”

IF felt a lump form in her throat and her eyes started to burn. “I’m… Sorry.” IF breathed.

“I’m sorry.” Arfoire muttered. “This isn’t me. This isn’t what I wanted.”

“Then why did you do this?” IF asked.

“I… I remember everything. This was all her fault. I told her no, but she did this to me.” Arfoire said, as tears began trickling down her cheeks as well.

IF swallowed hard as she and Compa turned their eyes to Arfoire. “What are you talking about?” IF asked, trying to stay calm. “Who is this ’she’ you’re talking about?”

Arfoire took a deep breath. “Rei Ryghts.”

Neptunia Heart Souls- CHAPTER 101

 ONE DAY AGO…

“Well I finished cleaning Neptune’s room.” IF said, as she stepped out of Neptune’s bedroom and slapped the dust off her hands. “I bet that room hasn’t seen a broom since the last time we visited.”

“Yeah.” Compa said, who was wiping down the kitchen table with a rag. Compa wore a grim look on her face. It’s a look that IF had sadly grown used to.

“What’s wrong Compa? Gear and Nep will be home soon. I mean they’re both in Lowee right now. We’ve all regained our memories. Everything will be fine!” IF said, hoping this time Compa would be able to cheer up.

Unfortunately the only thing that Compa’s words could produce, was a long sigh from her. “I know, but I’m still worried about Ge-Ge! Where is she Iffy?” Compa asked, her lower lip trembled.

IF swallowed hard. She hated seeing Compa in such a sad state, but at the same time she thought Compa looked rather cute like that. “Don’t worry. As soon as Nep and Ge-Ge reunite, I’m sure they’ll send us a message.” IF placed her hands high on her hips and started looking around the room.

Ever since Neptune and Nepgear left on their quest, the two girls had stayed behind and watched over the place. They made sure all the furniture and counters were dust free and the floors were swept and mopped. The girls even made sure spiders didn’t create webs in the corners of the various rooms.

“I know you’re right.” Compa said, after finishing her word. The girl bent down and picked up the package that Neptune had sent to her own home and placed it back on the table. “I’ll try to cheer up.”

“If you can smile for me I’ll buy some pizza tonight.” IF offered.

Compa giggled and smiled warmly at IF. “Thanks Iffy.” The girl said.

IF giggled and smiled back. “You just earned yourself a pizza.” IF said, as she crossed the room and took Compa’s hands into her own. “Anyways. Were done cleaning for today. Do you want to head back home or get some work at the guild. I’ll buy you a pizza, but the shop doesn’t open until later.”

“That’s okay.” Compa said, shaking her head. “We can get a pizza anytime. Let’s go to the guild and get a little work.”

“Sounds good.” Said IF.

IF and Compa headed out of Neptune and Nepgear’s home. After making sure the door was locked, the two girls headed towards the guild building. IF held Compa’s hand using her right hand and held up one of her cellphones with the left. As the girls walked, IF looked at the news.

“Hard to believe both Purple Heart and Purple Sister disappeared and our friends were actually the goddesses.” IF said, titling her head slightly to the right. “Although, it doesn’t really surprise me since we got all our memories back.”

“I know. I knew there was something special about Nep-Nep and Ge-Ge!” Compa said, smiling proudly.

“Yeah.” Said IF, taking a deep breath. IF looked at Compa out of the corners of her eyes. She could still see a bit of worry in them. “What’s wrong Compa?” IF asked. “Still thinking about-”

“No, no.” Compa said, shaking her head.

“Compa…?” IF began.

Compa shook her head once more. “No. It’s not that. I was actually just thinking about Arfoire. We haven’t seen her in a while.”

“Yeah… Arfoire…” IF rubbed the side of her head nervously. Ever since IF and Compa regained their memories, their feelings towards Arfoire had changed. At first the girls felt angry and fearful of Arfoire, simply because Arfoire had tried to destroy Gamindustri in the past. Thankfully Arfoire had reformed and was now a productive citizen of Planeptune.

Still, the saddest thing the girls remembered was the fact that they weren’t friends with Arfoire. IF even remembered some resentment she held against the woman.

“This really sucks.” Compa said, breaking into IF’s thoughts. “I really liked Arfoire. I wish we could still be friends.”

“Yeah.” IF said, giving Compa’s hand a gentle squeeze. “Maybe someday we can put everything behind us and become friends with her. I have a feeling that’s up to her though. Who knows how she feels deep inside?”

A figure suddenly appeared out from an alleyway. The figure held a large sword in her hand and her eyes were covered by the brim of a large pointy hat. “I can tell you exactly how I feel.” The girl breathed.

IF’s lower jaw dropped. “Arfoire?”

“Arfoire?!” Compa said, looking up. “We were just talking about you! Arfoire, listen…”

“SHUT UP!” Arfoire roared, angrily. “I don’t have to listen to a damn thing you say to me!”

“What are you talking about?” IF said, startled.

“I remember everything now.” Arfoire said, as she covered her face with one hand. “I remembered just how much I hated the goddess and how you two helped them defeat me! I won’t stand for this anymore.” Arfoire dropped her hand from her face, tilted her face skywards and laughed.

“Whoa… What a weird laugh.” IF breathed.

“Shut up!” Arfoire snapped, as she aimed the tip of her sword at IF. “I won’t allow you two brats to mock me!”

Compa took a deep breath. “Please Arfoire. Remember all the naughty stuff you did a long time ago? Remember how you atoned for that and changed! We might not be good friends now, but that can change, okay?”

“Remember?” Arfoire said, angrily. “All I remember… All I’ve been reminded of is all the pain you and the goddesses put me through!” Arfoire grabbed the side of her head and screamed as old forgotten memories poured into her mind. She stumbled back and forth and nearly fell over once, but somehow managed to keep standing.

Compa ran forwards. “HEAL!” She cried.

Arfoire’s body started to shine brightly and her screaming stopped, but once the spell from Compa vanished, she grabbed her head once more and continued screaming. “IT HURTS! STOP IT!” Arfoire cried, tears welled up in the corners of her eyes.

IF ran forwards. “Compa? We need to take her to the Fairy Tower! That will help her!” IF ran over to Arfoire and grabbed the girl by the arm. IF gasped when she felt all the muscles in Arfoire’s arm tense. Moments later IF was sailing through the air.

“IFFY!” Compa cried.

“What the hell!?” IF thought to herself. IF slammed into a nearby building, before she fell to the street below. IF felt a little pain, but thanks to her training the pain was minimal. “That’s not going to work on me Arfoire!” IF said, as she summoned her pistol.

IF was seconds away from pulling the trigger, but stopped when she saw that Arfoire was standing behind Compa. She held Compa by the throat. “I-Iffy!” Compa cried.

IF pointed her pistol upwards and away from the girls. “Leave Compa alone Arfoire!” IF said, slowly getting to her feet.

Arfoire giggled. “Of course!” She said, smiling evilly. “I remembered something else. I remember someone asking me to join them in a plan. Sealing memories and splitting the goddesses up from their human selves.”

“You!” IF said, her eyes went wide with hatred. “YOU’RE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS!?” The girl demanded.

“What’s with all the shouting?!” Came a loud voice.

Arfoire turned her eyes towards a large man who stepped out of his shop. “I suggest you turn around and get back inside, before I take your head.” Arfoire said, as she raised her sword over her head. When Arfoire brought her sword down, a wave of energy shot through the air and sliced through the man’s shop, missing his head by mere inches.

The man fell backwards, before he scrambled to his feet and ran back into his shop screaming. “How dare you!” IF roared.

“Maybe I should start cutting through the necks of everyone around here! Think that will send a message?” Arfoire asked.

“STOP!” Compa cried, as she grabbed Arfoire’s hand. The same hand she held her sword.

Arfoire giggled. “Isn’t this cute?” Arfoire easily pulled her hand away from Compa. “You know what? I think I’ll use Compa here instead.” Arfoire turned her eyes angrily towards IF. “Tell the goddesses that I have Compa. Tell the loud one, Neptune, to come to me first. After I kill her, send her sister. Eventually I’ll run out of goddesses to kill.” Arfoire suddenly lifted off into the air, carrying Compa with her. “I’ll be in a very special dimension!”

IF watched helplessly as Arfoire flew out of Planeptune city. Moments later a large beam of light rose up from the ground and nearly touched the sky.

“No… Compa?” IF fell to her knees and closed her eyes tightly. Tears streamed down her cheeks. “Compa… I…” IF’s body started to shake. It started at the tips of her fingers, but soon moved down her arms and into her shoulders. IF felt an anger she hadn’t felt in years. “Compa? I want Compa now!”

IF jumped to her feet. “ARFOIRE! I’M GOING TO KILL YOU!” IF roared in anger. IF began running out of Planeptune as fast as she could. As she ran, she passed by dozens of people who came out to see the beam of light in the distance.

Once IF ran out of the city, instead of heading straight towards the light, she instead started running towards the Fairy Tower.

Once IF was close enough to the Fairy Tower, Histoire’s holographic image appeared. “IF. What’s wrong? I noticed a strange-”

“No time!” IF said, as she ran to the terminal and began pressing buttons on it. “Why didn’t I use this share energy sooner?” IF wondered, as she began pouring Share Energy into her strength and defense stats.

“IF. What happened? I noticed a gateway to a pocket dimension has opened.” Histoire said.

“It’s Arfoire. She’s kidnapped Compa and she’s using her as a hostage to lure out the goddesses.” Said IF.

“Oh no!” Histoire said, horrified by what she just heard. Histoire closed her eyes and started to think. “It’s okay. I know Compa being kidnapped isn’t ideal, but Neptune should be able to handle Arfoire herself.”

“Good, but I’m not waiting.” Said IF, taking a deep breath.

“What do you mean?” Histoire asked, opening her eyes.

“I’m going after Compa.” IF said. “Histoire? Please teleport me to a place where really strong monsters are located. I’m going to take a day and do some more training.”

“IF. You can’t.” Said Histoire.

“Please!” IF said, turning her eyes towards Histoire. “Compa… I love Compa and I have to save her.”

Histoire wanted to argue with the girl, but knew that there was nothing she could say that could convince IF not to do this. “Very well. I’ll send you to a place in Leanbox.” Said Histoire. “I’ll also increase my Fairy Tower’s healing ability so you can work throughout the night without getting tired.”

“Thanks Histoire.” Said IF. “One last thing. Please don’t tell Nep or anyone else what happened. Knowing Nep, she’ll fly straight back to Planeptune and right now she needs to worry about reuniting with Gear and activating the final Fairy Towers.”

“I understand.” Said Histoire. “But I’ll tell Neptune immediately if I think you’re in danger. Understood?”

IF nodded. “Understood.”

“Good.” Histoire said, nodding as well. “I’m sending you to Leanbox.”

IF’s vision turned white. Moments later IF found herself standing in a large forest. “This is Leanbox?”

“Yes it is.” Came a voice.

IF turned quickly and spotted a red haired girl standing a few feet away from her. “Hi there! My name is MarvelousAQL, but you can call me Marvy.” Said the girl. “Let me guess… You’re friends with Neptune, right?”

“How’d you know?” IF asked.

“We all met Neptune, nyu.” Said A small catgirl. “My name is Broccoli, nyu. Pleasure to meet you, nyu.”

“My name’s 5pb..” Said a girl, who was standing to IF’s right.

IF looked at all three girls, before she suddenly remembered. “Yeah! We’ve all met before!” IF said. “Sorry, I’ve regained all my memories, but I’m still not remembering everything perfectly.”

“That’s okay.” Marvy said, holding up her hands. “Anyways, what brings you to Leanbox?”

IF opened her mouth to tell them, but quickly changed her mind. “I can’t worry these girls yet. No doubt their training for the final battle as well.” IF took a deep breath. “I came here to get stronger. Know of any strong monsters around here?”

“Of course.” Said Cave, who suddenly appeared beside 5pb.. “There are Regulus in this forest. They are pretty powerful.”

“Great. Could you all help me? My strength isn’t where it needs to be right now.” IF said, as she summoned her katars.

“Of course. Follow us.” Said Marvy, waving IF onwards. “We’ll power grind you until you’re level nine-hundred and ninety nine!”

“Great!” IF said. “Hold on a little longer Compa. I’m coming for you!”

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?”