I can tell you that this started out as a Noire x Neptune one-shot, and slowly evolved into something more; something greater; something... Neptunia.

Hello everybody! Tainted/Klelthin here with, surprisingly, a new Neptunia story! Gasp?!

As I said above - people will likely notice very obvious hints toward my Neptunia one-shots (and even some references) but this is actually slowly becoming a large, full-scale story that... I don't really know how long it'll stretch on for! I have some interesting concepts and ideas, no specific plot-points nor end-points, and just a plethora of things to toy with!

Also, fair warning - this story does jump around from different POVs - mainly going in the cycle of; Noire-Neptune-Blanc-Vert-Noire-repeat. Some parts are longer or shorter than others, and I can tell you that I really, seriously have no idea where I'm going with this yet, and that I may end up with breaks and pauses in between chapters - especially if I want to ensure they're lengthy, proper, real installments.

Without further ado, let's commence with Noire's part - and the reason that this is far, far longer than others is that Noire will not have a part for a little while for reasons that you will see. I will mention this again in the Neptune POV, with a better explanation, to boot. Please enjoy, and any feedback, feel free to send my way. I just appreciate writing this stuff, honestly!

I also don't know if I have to say this on FFN, but I do not own any of the contents, characters, games, references, or anything utilized in this story. All rights and content are owned by their specific companies - such as Idea Factory, Compile Heart, NISAmerica, Sega, Phoenix Wright, the Yuri foundation... - and I in no way intend to jeopardize that or claim otherwise. Please support their stuff.

Onward!


It's been a few weeks since the Arfoire incident, and Neptune's up and come home safely, and life has calmed down back to regular levels. The non-CPU factions have lost their Shares, and any traces of negative effects of this have seemingly faded. And, well, in addition to that, during our joint adventure, it seems the nations' spheres of influence fluctuated just enough to create new CPU candidates, or little sisters, for Planeptune, Lowee, and us, Lastation. Poor Vert. Neptune has Nepgear, who is the exact opposite of her; Blanc has Rom and Ram, who are playful, outgoing and highly emotional, much like their sister. Well, me? I have Uni, who's so desperate to win my approval; she'd do just about anything to receive praise from me. I try not to abuse her eagerness, though her work output is about satisfactory – she has a decent way to go before she'll be on equal footing with me, and I hope she just continues to strive to get better and better.

I look out toward the windows, stretching whilst sitting on one of my office's leather sofas; the business meeting with one of Lastation's development companies has finished, and Uni has headed off to fetch us some tea on the agreed topic of a short break. I shift my eyes over to the electronic clock above my desk, frowning – we have only, really, ten minutes to unwind before we have another meeting. I suppose I ought to give Uni leave for this one, since she looks exhausted, though I don't know what I can set her to handle during the meantime. Maybe fetching a nice tray of snacks for after I handle this meeting?

Speaking of which, she returns with a determined expression, nodding to me. "Hello, sister. We only had an herbal box of teabags left, so I had to compromise with that. I'm sorry – I ordered some more, but it will be a while."

I wave a hand to her, signifying my nonchalant feeling about this predicament. "That'll be fine, Uni. Settle down and take a moment to recollect your thoughts. We have ten… nine minutes to the next meeting, but I believe it will be better if you work instead on creating snacks and taking the time to rest – you look quite tired."

She shakes her head, frowning. "I'll be fine, sister. The CPU of Lastation has to be at least competent enough to make it through some bureaucratic and political obligations if Lastation is to continue to prosper."

I avert my eyes to her small form, and it occurs to me just how sister-like she is. We have the same hair, eyes, and mostly the same habit of dress – it's rather astounding how she is truly a younger counterpart to me. She yawns silently, rubbing her eyes as subtly as possible to avoid arousing my suspicion, so I look away again before she notices. "If you feel that way, fine – though, this meeting isn't as direly necessary as the last four. It's meeting with denizens residing in Planeptune; they wish to discuss the current situations popping up there, apparently." Her eyes light up in the mention of Planeptune, and I purse my lips – her infatuation with Neptune's nation and her sister, Nepgear, can almost be called obsession.

She catches herself after a few moments, looking over to me. "Why do they need to meet with us, you think?" I shrug, frowning. "Has something serious been going on?"

"Not that I'm aware – the nations have been quiet, especially considering the planning of the official meeting to ally all four nations to thus preserve the peace. We have a couple more days before that occurs, anyway, so this meeting is just a little strange."

She ponders my words for a moment, looking down to the ground while placing her fingertips to her chin, contemplating. "Perhaps… they're hoping to achieve our help in patching up some of Planeptune's major issues?"

"Possibly, though I doubt anyone realizes that not even Neptune herself can convince herself to work any harder for her people. Histoire has been going off like a bundle of fireworks, from what I've been hearing and witnessing." I glance over at the clock and sigh, taking a cup of tea to sip gently. "Two minutes. Are you sure you are prepared for this?"

She nods, the familiar flare of determination igniting in her eyes. "Yes, I'm ready."

We both sit in silence, enjoying the slight relaxation effect that the tea gives us, and I close my eyes for a few moments, feeling at peace – my relationship with Uni isn't exactly the healthiest, I suppose, but we connect well and are exceptionally close. It's… comforting. I turn my head, observing the clock as the time counts down.

Three… two… one…

Now, we wait. Uni and I exchange curt nods before setting down our teacups, shifting our attention to the door. Silence follows for a few moments, before I hear multiple footsteps and some sort of muffled talking – hard to tell, since I soundproofed most of the walls during the reconstruction of the Basilicom, and also ensuring only reliable staff chosen by myself or Uni would be handling any matters we leave to them. The sounds pause at the door, and we narrow our eyes anxiously. The large, dark oaken doors swing open, and…

"Heeeeyyyy, Noire! Oh, and Uni, too! Hiya, guys!"

Assumedly, Uni's blinking as rapidly as me, and we turn to one another, sighing.

"Neptune… that isn't the best way to enter Lady Noire's office. You're supposed to be quieter and more formal. We just went over this…," Nepgear tries to point out timidly, bowing in apology to us – and yet both Candidates seem to be secretly happy to see one another. Sigh. "Um, excuse us, Lady Noire."

"Yeah, it's, uh, fine. Though, we have a meeting now, so could you two…?"

"We are the ones that you will be meeting with," Histoire's small but sturdy voice and frame float into the room, and I throw her a questioning glance. "I requested a formal meeting to sit down and request your aid, Miss Noire."

"Yeah! You don't need to be so mean to us, c'mon, Noire! Let's hang out!" Neptune shouts, plopping down in the sofa adjacent to us, but not for long; she's already looking around akin to that of a curious owl, investigating the room. "Ooh! Nice clock, and that desk looks really business'y. This room's like the Oval Office—!" She cuts off, because Histoire bops her, harshly, on the head. "Nepu! That hurt, Histy!"

"You're in the presence of another CPU. You ought to be behaving better." She bows her head in apology to me, and I smile awkwardly, raising a hand in a subtle way to tell her not to feel so bad – it is Neptune, after all, and I'm relatively accustomed to her habits.

"Hey, chill! It's just Noire. She loves it when I pay a visit!"

I shake my head, rolling my eyes. "As if, idiot. You're like a virus I can't shake."

"Is it the 'Happy' virus? You're smiling right now," she remarks, and I blink. When did I start smiling? "See?! You adooore me!"

I sigh aloud, shifting my eyes instead to Uni and Nepgear, who are chatting quietly on the sofa lining the wall beside us. They're chuckling and seeming quite content, which… is good, I guess. Uni has a bit of growing up to do, still, though. I cough, startling them and retrieving Histoire out of her mid-lecture, earning a grateful thumbs-up from Neptune. "Okay, so… what did you need from us, Histoire?"

She smiles, looking satisfied. "You would do to learn from her wholeheartedly, Neptune. Yes, Miss Noire – I would like to ask your help in teaching these two the ways to be reliable, effective CPUs and Goddesses, since they refuse to learn from my attempts."

"Well, you get kind of long-winded…," Neptune mumbles, earning yet another bop on the head from Histoire. This one looks even harder, and Neptune cries out in her typical fashion.

"I, uh," I pause, checking with Uni – who's all too happy to say yes, obviously – before narrowing my eyes. "Is this because you admire our work, Histoire, or did you try Lowee and Leanbox first?" Neptune and Nepgear freeze, shuddering. "I had a feeling. Did Blanc scold them?"

Histoire frowns, nodding in a surprisingly dejected manner. "I had hoped her quick-to-anger affinity would achieve the necessary results, but it only brought forth her kicking us out of her Basilicom, amidst some colorful language."

I laugh nervously, shaking my head. "Sounds like Blanc – okay, I suppose I can try to work something out. Uni, what other obligations did we have today?"

She pauses, pulling the small notepad out from under the sofa, flipping through it while shouldering Nepgear out of the notepad's line of sight. "We had a couple more meetings and then some obligations to help out with the monsters growing around the perimeter."

"Cancel the meetings, have the staff gather some paperwork, and have the Guild send us a written copy of their requests from us today."

"Eh?! But, sister, the meetings…"

I look at her sadly, sighing. "Do you really want Neptune and Nepgear listening in on important Lastation meetings?" She lowers her head, the answer already clear. "Not that I have anything against you two, it's just…"

Nepgear bows her head, nodding, before Neptune can interject with something obscure. "We understand. Will we be observing you or assisting you in your work?"

"Actually," I smile, winking at Uni, "it's more than just Lastation paperwork. It's highly important stuff. Histoire, could you help Uni gather it…?" The tiny-framed fairy-tome's eyes light up and she nods contentedly. "Excellent! Nepgear, Neptune, how about you set yourselves to going to prepare some snacks? Oh, and Neptune; we have pudding, so you can gather some cups of that."

She gasps, utterly enthralled. "Thank you, Noire! Love ya'!" she says, hopping up while tugging Nepgear to her feet, the two running off – or really, Neptune running while Nepgear gets dragged.

I pause, exhaling. There's a word I haven't contemplated, 'Love'.

Uni and Histoire depart as well, leaving me to lie back onto my sofa, staring up at the ceiling. I raise an arm, looking to grasp at invisible objects, thinking about it. Love – people around Lastation experience it every day, and it looks so happy. I love Uni, too, but not really in the same way that I see other people love one another… I think. I'm pretty sure, at least – I wouldn't kiss my sister passionately, nor want to do anything like that with her.

Neptune pops into my head, and I shake my head to rid myself of that thought immediately. Her words linger, but I ignore it – that'd be even weirder; love between two Goddess-CPUs. Hah, if it weren't for the awkward response I would get, I would ask Histoire about stuff like that.

I pat my cheeks with my hands, rising up to sit up, shifting to lie back against the back of the sofa again, while staring at the door. Truthfully, maybe having all of the noise is a good thing – it seems to have brightened Uni's spirits, and I'm able to relax a bit; hopefully this was the proper choice to accept. Those meetings can wait, I suppose.

Speaking of which, Uni and Histoire reappear, and Histoire floats close to my face, smiling. "Thank you for the opportunity to file for those papers. You are truly kind to Planeptune." I shrug, waving my hand while smirking, pretending I don't understand. "Neptune was lucky to have made such a reliable, competent friend such as you, Miss Noire. Thank you for being the most dependable example of a good CPU."

I feel my cheeks flush, and I grumble. "Oh, stop it – flattery's just flattery now, Histoire. I'm doing what I enjoy, so don't praise me so much. Uni, how about you go check on those two? I just thought about the dangers of leaving them unattended to our kitchen." She nods, bowing before heading off. Once she's out of earshot, I turn to Histoire. "Hey, can I ask you a question, actually?"

Histoire looks over at me, smiling. "Yes, Miss Noire?"

"Can CPUs feel 'Love'?"

She pauses, frowning as she tilts her head. "Well, I've never had to investigate that. Hm…," she drifts off, her eyes going foggy as she checks her records. A decent sum of minutes pass, and I find myself thoroughly amused by the way Histoire researches things – like a tiny computer –, before her eyes return to normal. "There have been infrequent cases of it before – the Goddess before you had at times felt compassion, passion and impassioned by those around her. I believe that constitutes 'Love'."

I chuckle, nodding. "Well, I suppose so, Histoire. Thank you." She nods, but continues her quizzical expression. I shrug, "I've just wondered, since I see my residents experience it every day – yet I've never seen such mentions of it in those of us that rule over them. I mean, maybe there's a possibility between Uni and Nepgear, but…"

She smiles, nodding. "So that is what you've meant. Yes, loving another person is still quite capable of occurring even in you CPUs, and your Candidates – I believe there is an unspoken possibility of its existing between Miss Blanc and Miss Vert, as well… but do not mention that further than to yourself."

"Ah, I… Huh? Wait, what did you just say?" I stare at her, dumbfounded, and she chuckles. I mean… I guess I could have seen that possibility – Blanc and Vert's obsession with Laskyping one another to get work done had been a bit strange, but… "Wow."

At that moment, Uni, Nepgear and then Neptune return, carrying trays of various shapes and sizes of treats and snacks. Nepgear shoots me an apologetic expression as I narrow my eyes in wonder at the strangely-shaped creampuffs… at least; I think those are creampuffs, with pudding oozing out from inside them. Just, how in the world…?

I looked the three over, their outfits slightly dirtied by the battle that they fought in the kitchen, and I snort in amusement at the concept of it all. "You three lost, I see."

Uni grabs a wad of napkins, trying to rub out some of the stains, while Nepgear just slumps, and Neptune pats her chest proudly, standing tall. "Nep no! It was a battle well-fought, commander! Mission complete!" She then begins humming some sort of RPG music, and I shake my head. She plops down, much to Uni's dismay, who then begins to scold her for dirtying our furniture. "Uuugh! Why are you being so mean, Uni?! Noire doesn't look all that mad!"

Their attention turns to me. I bite my lip, contemplating my response. "Well, more like I'm just used to you destroying any and all solemnity and seriousness the moment you walk into a room. I can't stop an idiot from being an idiot, so why waste my voice?"

"Nepu?! Okay, that was really mean, Noire!"

"It was also really true, Nepgear's older sister. You're dumb."

Ignoring the two arguing in their usual form, I glance over at Uni. "When did my staff say they'd have those papers?" She looks up, her composure returning to certain extents. "Actually, Histoire, you answer, Uni, please direct them to our spare outfits so that you all can stop flinging frosting, pudding and whatever else those liquids are, onto my rugs."

"Yes, sister. Come on then, stupid Nepgear's older sister and Nepgear." She leads them back out of the office, a Basilicom staff member appearing to handle cleaning everything as much as possible. He nods in gratitude after a few moments, everything looking adequately in good condition, before taking his leave.

"They should be here soon, according to your staff. It's quite amazing how dedicated and efficient your Basilicom is," she says with a hint of jealousy, adding one of her various famous emoticons of unhappiness.

"It took a full sweep and replacement after the last incident – I didn't want them to have the ability to usurp my leadership again. They're handpicked, dedicated, and dutiful as they know there are plenty other people who would replace them in a heartbeat. In fact, staff inspections are coming up soon. Would you like to watch to see how it goes?"

"I would be grateful… especially after we handle this paperwork, as well."

I pause, frowning. "Will you be able to handle any meetings that are scheduled?" She nods, somewhat exasperated. "I'm sorry about that – I would stand in for Neptune, except that I'm known here and it would diminish Planeptune's Shares even faster."

"I hope that your dutiful attitude will rub off on her."

"I doubt it," I say, sighing. "Neptune's a very special kind of lazy, and unless it's dire or to save a friend, she wouldn't do it."

Histoire pauses, smiling. "There is one way to achieve your full assistance." I look over at her, tilting my head curiously. "You could always marry Neptune and the nations would be able to share in one another's responsibilities."

I feel my face heat up, and I shake my head vehemently. "Ex-cuse me, Histoire?! Tha-that's not a funny joke!" She chuckles, obviously pleased with herself. "I-I didn't appreciate that! Don't be so ridiculous!"

She averts her eyes, her grin exceptionally smug. "It's not really all that ridiculous," I hear her mumble, and I glare at her. "You and Neptune are close, after all."

"Objection! You just want to take a break from babysitting," I grumble back, and she sticks her tiny tongue out at me. "I see you're guilty as charged."

"Histy is always guilty!" Neptune joins in, walking back into the room. She's dressed in one of Uni's summer outfits – white jean-shorts and a black tank with a little white panda bear on the front. She brushes her hair from her face, hopping back onto the couch. "Whoa, it's already cleaned! Is it self-cleaning and-or magical?"

"That reference is kind of obscure," I remark, looking over as Uni and Nepgear enter simultaneously. Uni is in another one of her traditional black dresses, and Nepgear's in one of my blue-and-gray skirt-and-top outfits, seemingly modified in the bust and waist to meet her slightly more teenage physique. "I'm pleased that outfit fit and looks decent on one of you, actually – it was kind of tacky when I wore it." I feel as though I just jabbed myself, but not really myself. Oh well.

Nepgear nods, her cheeks dusted red as she shifts awkwardly, inspecting the outfit a couple more times. "Uni, did you properly tie it in the back?"

"Yes, duh," she says, shaking her head. "I've watched sister put it on enough times—I, uh, I mean, that I've folded and cleaned it enough to know how it works."

"I don't think that's healthy," Neptune mutters under her breath, further embarrassing Uni. I'll just pretend I didn't hear my sister loves watching me change. "So! What are we gonna' be doing?!"

"We'll start off with some paperwork to make sure you can read. Hey, stop making that face – it's not that bad. It'll go faster with five people." Histoire looks at me in confusion, and I smile vindictively. "Yeah! We're all capable of working, so let's get it done as soon as possible. That's efficiency."

"Miss Noire, I didn't mean…"

"Whatever do you mean, Histoire?" I smile innocently, and the small fairy sighs, nodding in resignation. "After that… we have some work out in Lastation's perimeters to handle, and then I suppose we can check in with Leanbox and Lowee to ensure the Four Nations Meeting will commence in two days as planned… Shut up, Neptune, it's not a field trip," I say flatly, unsuccessful in stopping her cheering. "Well, hopefully Blanc will still speak to me today, at least."

"She should – you are on decent terms with her, are you not?" I nod, still somewhat unsure. Blanc's temper can be exceptionally hard to quell after it flares, and she's rather indiscriminate about her anger. "I would not worry, Miss Noire – Miss Blanc will likely be more than content to meet with you regarding the beneficial unifications. Lowee would receive more public attention if the alliance occurs, so I doubt she would avoid it."

"Let's hope so, Histoire." I decide the conversation is pretty much over at that moment, as the Basilicom staff arrive with a couple decently-sized stacks of paper – that are actually smaller than even Uni's daily pile, which I ensure is half of mine, much to her chagrin – that Neptune gasps in horror at. "It's not that bad, Neptune. Thank you, gentlemen." They nod, pleased with being praised as they bow, departing. "Now, to divvy it up."

"We could take half, sister, and leave them to divide the other half," Uni suggests, hopeful to show her ability to handle work in front of everyone. I pause, considering her suggestion; it would please her and Neptune, but…

"I'm not sure we can do that, Uni. We're supposed to be teaching responsibility to Nepgear and Neptune – not necessarily doing our usual routines." She blinks in surprise, remembering the point made earlier and nods. "Histoire, how would you like us to educate them?"

Histoire half-smiles, half-frowns, "I would prefer you do as you feel is best. Neptune needs to learn the most of all; Nepgear is adequately responsible enough to handle a satisfactory portion, correct?" She shifts her attention to Planeptune's Candidate, who affirms with a determined expression. "Perhaps half and half would be good, though someone will need to sit on Neptune, per-say."

I feel three sets of eyes on me, Neptune's excluded as she's trying to slip away. I sigh, nodding in resignation. "Neptune, you'll be working with me. If you try to leave, I'll be sure to let Uni practice her shooting before we even leave the Basilicom."

"But Noiiiire, I'm allergic to paper and ink! It's a disease known as Nepneedsrestitis!"

"And I have the antidote – Noire' . Get over here and pull up a seat. We're getting to work," I say, grabbing her by the collar as I drag her to my desk – Uni leading Nepgear and Histoire to our spare desks to the right of mine before settling into hers on my left. Funny, I had those brought in for Basilicom staff or any secretaries I might take on, yet they've not been needed until now. "You do know how to write, don't you?"

"I can, but I have a cramp."

"If you behave yourself and help me get a bit of work done, I'll ensure you can take a pudding break or something in a little bit." I pause, looking over to the dessert tray – only to find it completely cleaned off. "Well, I'll have Uni and Nepgear fetch some more, if you work hard, at least. Uni, will that be okay?" She nods, smiling at the prospective idea. "See, now you have other people depending on you not being useless. Don't let them down."

She grumbles a couple more times before nodding, settling into her chair – my left hand remaining tight on her tank's right strap. I take a small stack off the top, the other three taking their respective pieces as well as I set a paper, pen and a Planeptune seal of approval out for Neptune. Not that she'd even notice that it's her nation's, anyway.

"Noire, this is for updating the transportation systems. What am I supposed to do with this?" Neptune asks, tilting her head.

"You sign off whether you believe it to be a good idea with an 'Approved' or a 'Declined' and then stamp it with your seal. Anything that you think will help the citizens or improve economics for the businesses – that are at least legal or decent ideas – often need to be 'Approved'. If you have better ideas, write them in in that box under the approval-or-declination section and then seal beside your idea. Any more questions, just ask me."

"Uh, alright. So a transportation system would be… good?"

"Yeah. It'd be beneficial to cut costs and help those that work out-of-nation. See the details up here, talking about how the machines would run off Dogoo Jelly instead of burning wood for charcoal?" She nods, her eyes widening. "Yeah, you'd want to approve that."

"Wow, that'd be really helpful, since there's a lot of Dogoos around!" she exclaims, checking off on it and stamping it. "Ooh, these seals are really neat, too!"

Uni chuckles under her breath off to the left, already through half of her pile. I smile at her subtly, holding up a thumb – causing her eyes to light up in happiness. She never had to see half of these ideas since they were already upgraded to be even more efficient by me for Lastation long ago, but I can see that Planeptune's definitely been behind. Hopefully she doesn't 'fix' too much for them that it would look suspicious. I should've warned her, but oh well.

Nepgear seems to have picked up on the programs being Planeptune-based, but Histoire seems to have shushed her previously. She offers me a grateful expression, nodding in thanks before returning to her paperwork. Histoire just seems to be analyzing the stack Nepgear's working on, suggesting new concepts as she conceives them.

Okay, and Neptune's working a bit now. Time to get started. I pause, breathing, clearing my mind as I look down at the papers – let's try and dumb down some of this. Immediately, I slide myself a paper and quickly analyze it. New materials to create more durable hardware. Approved. Next. Software with a 100MB increase. Approved. Next. Public request to shorten work hours by three. Declined, suggested to instead offer an hour-break halfway through the day. Next. Deforestation of a chunk of Planeptune's forests to create a power plant. Hmm… approved, suggested to use non-harmful substances and fuels. Next. Higher wages for Basilicom staff… approved, suggested increase of maximum three credits per hour until economy grows. Next…

"Oh wow, Noire. You're really quick."

I pause, blinking, looking over at Neptune, who's staring at me in awe. I feel my cheeks heat up and I shake my head, smiling slightly. "It's just part of the job. The faster and more efficiently it gets done, the quicker I can move to the next obligation." Uni nods, beaming in pride.

"Yeah, but you don't really take breaks to have fun," Neptune responds, frowning. "You're just Workaholic Heart most days."

"It comes with being the CPU of a nation, Neptune. Plus, it's not all work once you get accustomed to it – the ability to go out and clear perimeters and have a cup of tea in between is rather relaxing, and makes you appreciate your respites a bit more." She stops, considering my words. "You'll figure out it feels nice to have that sense of accomplishment after a long day, and I unwind by the late afternoons to take a bath and go visit my citizens, asking them about their opinions and days."

"Wow, that's actually kinda' cool, Noire. I always pegged you for just working all day and night."

"Only some days, like when Lastation has a new technology they need my help developing. Those are the meetings and real paperwork, honestly – this stuff is pretty light comparatively. Though, let's just get this stack done so we can move on, okay?"

She nods, seemingly motivated. "Yeah!"

The next thirty minutes fly by, in all actuality. I complete half of the pile unintentionally, while Uni completes a little over a quarter, and Neptune and Nepgear manage to pull through the other fourth. Neptune throws her head back, yawning in fatigue as Uni and Nepgear excuse themselves to head out and pick up some snacks and supplies, while Histoire floats over to beam at us.

"Good work today, Neptune! And thank you, Miss Noire, for being a great motivator."

I shrug nonchalantly, while Neptune sits up and beams, leaning over to hug my arm, laughing. "It's just because I had Noire to help me! She made this stuff really easy!"

I smile at her, kind of flattered. "I just told you how I look at it, Neptune. No real big deal."

"You do make a good team, in all seriousness. What should we expect from the perimeter patrol?" Histoire asks, and I contemplate her words about Neptune and I from before, before shaking the idea again, looking up at the fairy-tome.

"Well, it's just investigating some of the outlying, out-of-commission factories and scrap yards, since those are our real borders from the monster-populated forests. I don't expect much besides a couple wolves, rogue bots and dogoos, but it never hurts to be on the safe side. Neptune, where's your level at?"

She freezes, looking nervous while Histoire covers her face in embarrassment. "I, uh, it's no big deal, really!"

"How low's it dropped, Neptune."

"I've… uh… dropped to 17."

Now, levels aren't huge to us CPUs, since we are still powerful nevertheless, but they do affect our bodies' abilities to handle more stress and our tendencies to shrug off pain and fatigue. Lower levels are more like humans; higher levels are closer to our previous selves.

It'd also probably be best to note that, due to my consistent dedication on Lastation's protection and the Guild assignments I keep up with, that I'm level 65, where Blanc and Vert hovered around the 50s, last I checked. Even Uni, who I tend to shelter, is 42. "…And Nepgear?"

"She's level 34," Histoire says flatly, "She's at least been keeping up with things more than Neptune, but it's still not where she ought to be."

"I'll level back up lickety-split! I just need something to whack until I level back up!" Neptune interjects, her cheeks actually slightly reddened from the discussion. What a rare, kind of cute, sight. "Noire! What level are the things on the outskirts of Lastation?!"

"Uh, level thirty or higher, depending how far you go out. We might be better checking into Planeptune's areas."

"Wha?! Why would you say that so casually?!"

"Your area is like the tutorial and beginner area of every game, you dolt. Of course it'd have lower levels than mine."

"Oh, good point. I remember grinding levels there last game to have an easier time kicking Blanc's butt."

"Ladies, that's not a canon discussion to be having! The players are supposed to be the ones to make that connection!" Histoire adds with one of her pouty emoticons.

"Shush, Histy. You're breaking the fourth wall," Neptune retorts, thus causing the typical Histoire-and-Neptune banter that everyone is accustomed to. I sigh, leaning back into my chair as I stare at the two, contemplative.

Really, my life's changed a lot thanks to Neptune, and I'm a lot more laidback than I was before, when she was originally just the arrogant Purple Heart. We always used to compete and Planeptune was a force to be reckoned with, but… I actually prefer this Neptune – the lackadaisical effect she has on everyone is both irritating and comforting at the same time, most days. Hard to believe a few months ago, we were all trying to kill one another for a few centuries. Not really how it would work logically, but hey, this is Gamindustri.

Time passes, Neptune eventually losing in the argument with Histoire, as she's getting lectured now on her de-leveling crisis. I've managed to stay uninvolved, but I'm also not in the same predicament. As Neptune turns to me to begin to whine and beg for help, the door opens to Uni and Nepgear, both beaming, and I quickly point to them to quiet both of the other two.

"How'd it go, Uni? Nepgear, what were your thoughts on Lastation?" I ask, watching them settle down into the sofas in the original corner of the room we all had sat in. They shift their focus to me, Uni deciding to speak first.

"It went well, sister. We gathered some healing equipment, a new weapon for Nepgear, and plenty of food-stocks to refill our stores here in the Basilicom. I already deposited all of what we purchased into the kitchen, besides the adventuring provisions, and Nepgear already equipped her weapon." She smiles at her fellow Candidate, who nods in thanks.

"Lastation is so much different from Planeptune, yet it's so wonderful to see all of the citizens united and so loyal to you and Uni. They're so kind and friendly, I'm somewhat jealous."

Neptune frowns at her sister's words, and I almost feel a pang of sympathy. "Hey, Neptune. If you learn enough, you guys ought to be able to have that same experience in Planeptune, you know."

"I know, I know," she says casually, returning her outwardly goofy smile to her face. Strange, I can sometimes tell it's really a façade, and just meant to reassure everyone else. "Planeptune will obviously surpass you workaholics in no time! Just you watch!"

Uni decided to be far less passive than me, as she stands up in her seat, highly defensive of her pride and joy – my Lastation. "You'll never beat our superior technology and capabilities! We'd just crush you with new software releases until your powers would be next to nothing!" She pauses, noticing the forlorn and unhappy expression on Nepgear's face, and akin to that of a schoolgirl having upset her crush, she panics. "Oh, I uh, I mean, we wouldn't ever need to, but…"

"So, besides the fact that Lastation is a powerful ally of Planeptune, do we want to head out toward Planeptune to catch Neptune up to speed?" I ask, diverting the topic entirely. "Or, Neptune – do you think you can handle staying behind us to sponge the experience?" She nods, smiling determinedly. How she ever managed to lose that many levels just by being lazy, I'll never know, but whatever. "Alright. Let's all get going, then. Uni, we'll be visiting that scrapyard to the south, first. Arm up and hand out medical supplies. Histoire… uh…"

"I will return to Planeptune to await your return for the day. I know you will take good care of them, Miss Noire," she smiles, bowing her head. "Godspeed, and good luck!" A happy, supportive emoticon as she turns to float away, on her way back to Planeptune's Basilicom.

I shift my attention to the girls, nodding to them. "Will we be ready to go and get this started in a little while?"

"Yeah! Player Two has entered the game!" Neptune shouts, hopping to her feet eagerly. I pat her head, standing up with a bit more finesse as she jogs over to Nepgear to receive some healing supplies.

Uni approaches me, bowing her head. "What levels are we dealing with here, sister?"

"17 and 34, so we'll be tanking the mobs whether we want to or not." Uni's jaw drops, and she glances over at Nepgear first, opening her mouth to inquire, but I cut her off. "Nepgear's the higher number. You're ahead by a decent amount."

She smiles in triumph, satisfied. "I'm also higher than Rom and Ram, so I'm doing really well! Though… how did Nepgear's older sister…?"

"Don't ask, Uni. It's rude to pick on the impaired." She chuckles, dropping the subject as the other two approach. "So, shall we?"

They both give affirmation, and I smile softly, leading them out of my office. Notifying one of the Basilicom members from before to gather the papers and deliver them promptly, he nods in subtle understanding, disappearing to fetch the documents. Decidedly, we walk through one of the less populated areas of the town, hoping to avoid any unnecessary publicity. After all, if you saw two CPU-Goddesses and their Candidate sisters walking around, wouldn't you want to say hello?

Neptune just skips ahead, staring in awe at all of the new structures throughout Lastation's streets, as if a little kid in a toy store. I fill her in on each of the new buildings, the walk being relatively tame. Uni and Nepgear seemed to have hung behind, discussing and giggling over something, and it occurs to me that my sister is obviously beyond love-stricken… which, I don't really know how to feel about. They grow up so fast.

"Hey, Noire," Neptune breaks me from my thoughts, and I look down at her as she leans forward to stare up at me while we walk. She motions with her eyes to our sisters, and I blink in surprise. Neptune's actually observant?! "What do you think of them being so close like that?"

I frown, remaining in my current posture so as to not arouse suspicion from them. "I'm not sure, Neptune. I'm pretty positive that there's budding romance there, though. It seems CPU Candidates are a bit more preoccupied with the emotions of the heart even more than we seem to be."

"Yeah, Nep Jr. talks about Uni a lot. She seems to be really enamored with your sister. But… isn't Uni as big of a tsundere as you are? Or at least, more serious about it?"

I shrug. "I'm not answering that pointed question. We should just play dumb and be supportive if they ever approach the topic, I guess."

She smiles, nodding. "Duh! Though, it feels kind of weird to be slower than my brand-new sister in really anything. I wonder how Vert and Blanc feel about the whole 'Love' concept, y'know?"

I gulp, quickly trying to bleach my mind of the idea of those two. "Urk! Uh, y-yeah. Though, they probably have people they already like and they just… haven't told us yet." I ignore Neptune's inquiring expression, turning my head to find a different topic. "Hey, did I tell you that we bumped up wages for our factory workers?"

"Huh? No, but that's cool, I think. Did they need the money?" she asks, seemingly pondering the idea of wages, I guess. "I've never really had to think about it, but we don't really get paid for a ton of work or anything, do we?"

"No, we earn ours through the Guild or through defeating monsters… or at least, that's how it works for me. I mean, I also invest in businesses and make money through that, but that's not really the main source of income."

"I think you're showing off again." I hold up my hands to signify peace, but Neptune shakes her head as she looks at me, her eyes sparkling slightly. "Hey, do you think we'll ever find anyone?" Replays of the earlier conversations today return to my thoughts, and my face heats up. I stare at her for a few moments, words refusing to leave my mouth as I nod silently, to which Neptune's expression becomes even more baffled. "Did you already find someone, Noire?"

I stop, startling both our sisters and Neptune herself. I take a breath, recomposing my mind and body as I exhale, feeling more comfortable. "I don't know, Neptune. I haven't decided yet, really. But, how about we focus on our current obligations before we consider that conversation any further, alright? It's… kind of embarrassing."

She nods, smiling. "Roger, Captain! How far are we to the scrapyar…," she trails off, her lips pursing and her eyes becoming cartoonish lines as if 'Duh' was written all over her face. "Is that it?"

I look up, and… "…Yeah, yeah, that's it. We've been in it for a while, apparently." We both sigh, and I whirl around on my heel to address Uni and Nepgear. "Okay, girls. We've arrived. Ready your weapons for anything out of the ordinary, and protect one another. Neptune, stay in between all of us. Got it…? Uh, Neptune…?"

"Kangaroo no you ni!" Neptune shouts, leaping into the air to swat her simple metal katana blade sideways at a small robot sentry. The hit connects, sending the robot spiraling back as it bounces back, landing in front of some large… combat bots… "…Oops."

"Goddess DAMN IT, Neptune. Get your ass back over here!" I shout, materializing my blade as I dash forward, my eyes narrowing in anticipation. "Uni, provide cover against anything else that shows up. Nepgear, make sure Uni doesn't get flanked!" I shout, the two girls exclaiming their affirmations so I can focus on the enemies ahead. "Neptune, get down before I accidentally hit you!" I shout, her short frame ducking to the ground instinctively as I center my energies.

My blade glows, its color becoming a rainbow plethora as it shifts from one hue to the next, my mind filling with the idea of utter annihilation of our enemies. "This should be enough… so… How's this?!" I unleash my pent-up power, my ability surging outward in a massive, shimmering crescent, acting as a tidal wave washing over the bots. The frontal combat bot tries to activate evasive maneuvers, but to no avail as the crescent pierces its armor, then circuitry, and then its armor again as the machine is cleaved in two. I grin in satisfaction, and then watch two fiery bullets that are almost the size of my head, whiz by, piercing through the frames of two more security bots hovering in the air. There's a familiar sound of short-circuiting, and they explode into tiny metal pieces raining down from above. "Nice job, Uni! Neptune, stay on guard – there's another two to your right!"

"Got it!" she shouts, hopping to her feet as she charges an ability of her own, stepping forward without missing a beat. "This'll… hurt!" Slicing diagonally, she then follows it up with a flurry of more haphazard slashes, dicing apart the robot with ease. Hopping back, I block a bullet for her with the side of my blade, the two of us colliding as I get forced back into her. "Nepu?!" A rain of magical bullets comes from above, pelleting the next one, and I inwardly say a prayer for having a ranged sniper for a sister. Stepping forward, I quickly slice through the robot before it can react, stepping back to where Neptune's standing, watching the bot fall apart. My eyes fan our surroundings, the adrenaline of an unprepared fight still keeping me on my toes, but it seems relatively calm, now. Thank Goddess.

Neptune pats my shoulder, holding her other hand out with two fingers in a 'V' formation, flashing a goofy, proud smile. "Pretty, mysterious Neptune of love and justice! In the name of the Basilicom, I punished 'em!"

"Ugh, come on, Neptune. That one was kind of lame," I remark, shaking my head. Good thing she's okay, at least – I was honestly worried for a few moments.

"Nep you! It's a great game reference and you know it!"

"Fourth wall, fourth wall, where art thou, fourth wall?" I respond, grumbling. Uni and Nepgear jog up, looking us over with worry but letting out simultaneous sighs in relief. "We're okay here. How about you two?"

"We're fine, sister!" Uni exclaims, still beaming from either my praise, or something that occurred between her and Nepgear. "Nepgear leveled up after the combat bot fell, so we succeeded in that. How about her big, idiot sister…?"

Neptune frowns, pausing to focus her thoughts. "I'm… Level 21 again! Wow!" She jumps for joy, Nepgear rushing over to celebrate briefly with her older sister as the two chatter excitedly. "Can you believe it, Nep Jr.?! We'll be back to normal in no time!"

Uni approaches, pouting probably at their ability to create their own little sisterly bubble. "Sister, are you sure it was a good idea to bring them along?" I spin, offering her a quizzical look. "While we can handle our own here, they might try to come to grind without our attendance. They might get hurt and we'd be at fault."

I pat her head, ruffling her hair – much to her confused mixture of pleasure and displeasure – as I smile, feeling somewhat confident in my knowledge of Neptune's habits suddenly. "I wouldn't worry too much – they'll be sure to visit us before they do anything in Lastation, honestly. They're too friendly and carefree to avoid that step. Right, Neptune?" I call over to them, interrupting the two.

"Yup! I gotta' get my Noire fix before I get my leveling fix!" Neptune answers, smiling innocently as she and Nepgear rejoin us. "After all, Lady Lonely Heart would get really sad if I wasn't around. Right?"

"Enough to probably conquer the world by storm and exercise my capability to be the sole Goddess – or to execute the cause of your absence," I say, suddenly, and I wonder where that came from.

Neptune shudders at once, shaking her head with a grin. "This isn't the right story, Noire! And… let's not talk of it again, okay?" she says, winking. I sigh, rolling my eyes. "Aaanyway! Ahem!"

"So, we have a couple more places to check, but I'm going to say we'll probably have a few wolves to deal with in anywhere else – though we only have a couple more hours before visiting Blanc is going to be somewhat impossible," I say, pulling out a small handheld wristwatch. Handy-dandy new Lastation-only technology; a miniature digital clock fashioned into a piece of attractive jewelry; solely for our consumers' convenience!

"Doesn't it take a while to get over to Lowee due to the crowds? I mean, last time was a bit of a pain." Uni asks, and Nepgear nods in response. Wait, we haven't visited Blanc from the transportation units before. Neptune and I exchange glances, likely coming to the same conclusion as Uni holds up her hands defensively, frowning. "We don't run off to talk to Rom and Ram as frequently as you both are thinking! Don't look so judgmental!"

I sigh, rubbing my temples. "It seems we have no other choice – Uni, I'll handle the issues regarding the patrols tonight. You were right – I guess we do need to head off to Lowee immediately if we are to get there before Blanc's Basilicom closes its doors. Come on, now that Neptune's less useless, we can head back." I chuckle softly at Neptune's interjection, and motion for them to follow. We proceed back into Lastation, all four of us remaining closer together as we ford through the crowds in the main street of my city. Truthfully, I make an inner note from this experience – create a safer, simpler, less chaotic method to traveling to the transportation hubs. Maybe a monorail system.

Ushering Uni and Nepgear through the transportation device first, Neptune follows suit and then I take the rear, and I feel my body pixelating before my essence shifts, warping instantaneously through time and space. It can be best described as de-atomization and then reconstruction within the span of a few seconds. At first, it may hurt – but after a while, it becomes a commonplace occurrence that you just grow accustomed to.

Immediately, as my form rematerializes, my skin shivers at the sensation of the cold, nipping air of Lowee. Unlike the bright, fantasy-world-like, stereotypical, brightly-colored city of Planeptune and its dark green forests, or the expansive steampunk'esque, gray, industrial world of Lastation, Lowee is a snowy world with low temperatures and a plethora of mountains. The citizens live in mushroom—I mean tower-like buildings as houses, and Princess Peach—Blanc, lives in the castle at the center of the city. And then there's that summery beach resort, Leanbox…

My breath flows out from my mouth and nose, and I rub my arms, shivering. Why do I suddenly feel three times as cold? Neptune seems to be cold, as do Nepgear and Uni, judging from everyone shivering and sneezing as well. Instinctively, I purchase three long horsebird coats from one of the many tourist vendors – for far too high a price, of course, to the point where my funds are now dangerously low – and hand one to each of our sisters, putting the third on myself. Neptune looks at me, pitifully, and I pause. So, she can't afford one. Sighing, I open the coat and usher her to huddle under it as well, to which she gratefully does.

"You're a pain in the ass, make some money sometime," I remark, and she grumbles, snuggling against me to ensure we make as much use of the coat as possible.

"Nep you, Noire – you love it and you know it. If not, you would buy another coat for me!"

I blush, luckily hidden by the cold air, feeling warmth regarding that strange four-letter word again, but quickly set it aside to address her statement. "No, it isn't really," I pause, muttering the word 'Just' under my breath, "that, you dolt. I don't have the money to buy another one, at the moment. My credits are on a budget to ensure Uni and I can pay for any predicaments that may arise in Lastation."

At the mention of her name, Uni turns to look at me questioningly – pausing to observe us – before her face alights in an obvious shade of crimson as she stamps her foot angrily. "What are you doing with my sister, you big idiot!" Neptune opens her mouth to respond, but Uni seems utterly upset – much to my confusion, actually. "Sister! I'll offer her my coat if I have to – don't let her stupidity rub off on you!"

Nepgear's off observing some of the wares at the merchants' tables, leaving this conversation entirely behind, this time.

"It's… okay, Uni. It's not for too long, after all," I say tiredly, yawning. "I'm running out of energy to handle all of this, though."

Neptune frowns, looking up at me – her fluffy hair tickling my chin, which is kind of nice and warm in itself, actually – before turning her head to focus on Uni. "I know it's not really my place to say this, but I don't think you need to be shouting so much. Noire's looking really exhausted. Can we just get going to Blanc?"

Uni stops her tirade, investigating Neptune's words. She takes a moment to stare at me, her eyes widening apologetically as she frowns. "Sister, are you going to be okay?"

I wave a hand at her, smiling softly. "I think so, Uni. I'm just a bit worn out. Can we get moving?" A unanimous nod, Nepgear being grabbed by her coat's collar by Uni as she's dragged over to rejoin us, the Planeptune Candidate blubbering about some piece of machinery she had been considering. "Thank you, everyone."

We set off again, pushing at a decent pace through the chilly-cold temperatures. I notice citizens pointing and remarking about Neptune and I's form of attire, and how adorable they think it is, but Neptune seems to ignore this, so I try my best to, too. Uni hangs by our side, glaring at anyone who speaks too rowdily about any of us, Nepgear lingering at multiple stalls and then practically warping to the next to maintain pace with us.

"Noire, do you want to rest for a bit after we get to Blanc's Basilicom?" Neptune asks, and I glance down at her. "I can't really see your face at the moment, but… I think it might be a good idea."

"What're you talking about, Neptune? I really… don't understand what you mean."

Neptune goes silent, she and Uni exchanging concerned expressions. As the Basilicom ahead draws closer, I feel Neptune snuggle in even closer to me, her hair tickling my neck. She's actually nice and kind of warm, and it's a nice feeling – her body emanates heat like a small radiator, and my shivering ceases a little bit more. I guess she senses this, as she stays huddled against me. "…Thanks," I whisper, and she nods.

Arriving at the Basilicom, Neptune steps out of the coat, leaving me to wrap it tighter around me as she talks to the guards – who look all too unhappy to see her, unfortunately – as she points to me, and then Uni and Nepgear. They pause, surprise flashing across their faces as they quickly part ways, opening the door for us. The massive gate-like structures swing open, and I see multiple staff members hurrying every which way, a couple starting their movement only after another of them points to us.

"Alright! We should be okay to go find Blanc. Noire, let's go sit in one of the couch rooms and warm up," Neptune says, smiling softly. Nepgear and Uni already seem to have slipped away to wherever, and I feel a pang of sisterly annoyance – I'm so going to scold her later. A proper CPU doesn't just run off to find their friends on a whim… except Neptune. "C'mon, follow me, Noire."

I nod, feeling even more exhausted than before as Neptune gently grabs my arm, tugging me along down the hallways. I discover in myself a passion of some of the arts, as I note the complexities and beauties of the paintings and sculptures lining Lowee's Basilicom walls, and then the patterned marble floorings underneath rugs that fit the absolute epitome of regality. Huh, so Blanc's a bit showy. I wonder if that was Vert's influence…

Neptune appears familiar with these halls, as she weaves through the endless corridors with ease, her eyes forward at all times. She makes small-talk, but I'm having difficulty fully understanding her at the moment. Am I… getting sick? When would this have started…? Lowee's cold air…? I can't really tell, anymore.

"Hey… Neptune…"

"Hush, Noire. You're going to… love these sofas, y'know! They're super comfortable. You could even… take a nap on them!" Neptune replies, maintaining a cheerful attitude. I smile weakly at her, stumbling after her as she leads me on. "It… should be coming up, soon, I think…" I tilt my head, worried. Her voice is sounding weaker and hoarse, too. Is she getting… tired? "Huh… Noire, am I seein' right, or… are there four paintings over there?"

I look over, propping myself up against the wall – much to Neptune's dismay and concern – and tilt my head up. "…No, Neptune. There's… definitely only one. We might be… in some trouble…"

Neptune pauses, her body sagging slightly. "Oh, that's… definitely an understatement, Noire. How bad're you… doing now?" I hold up a hand, waving it weakly. "So… about a 40-60 split. What the Nep is going on?"

"Neptune… we're going to want… to transform…," I advise, watching as the hall fills with a pile of both monsters and… "Oh, for f… Neptune, that's…"

"You can succumb to the crystal now, little Black and Purple Hearts. It'll all be over soon enough as I grind you both into the dirt." Arfoire – now in a new costume, which I guess means it's not the same as the one Neptune purified – weird, are there other dimensions in this Hyperdimension Neptunia franchise? – appears, grinning wickedly while holding some sort of red, glowing cross. Has she been following us? That might explain this sudden exhaustion.

"I… think that that cross is… the issue, Neptune…," I cough out, standing up as best I can. I materialize my blade, holding it up with difficulty. Neptune pats my shoulder, and I finally notice it – her eyes look as defeated and fatigued as mine must. Ah, hell – this was a bad time for her to play the tough girl role. "Can you… fight?"

"I'm not… losing you to this pain in the Nep…," she remarks, materializing her weapon as well. We stand side-by-side, Neptune smiling weakly. "It's amazing, really, Noire…" I toss her a glance. "I remember purifying her…"

"Plot convenience, Neptune… Plot convenience… Now… let's finish this up so I can… take a nap…" I say, my vision blurring a bit now. I feel my energy draining more and more by the minute. "Aim for… that stupid crystal."

"You two are so aggravatingly stubborn," Arfoire remarks, utterly disinterested. "Let's finish this up quickly. Attack." The robots hover forward, and Arfoire scoffs at us. "I hope you make peace with your demise, girls."

"Neptune… rush forward after I… make an opening…," Neptune nods to me, and I bow my head. Focusing my mind once more, I attempt to collect my energy… and barely succeed. My sword glows, even if it's a bit dim, and I glare at the approaching horde. "This is… enough for you." I step forward, channeling all of my remaining strength into a singular swing. Unleashing it in a horizontal arc, my blade grows exponentially, slicing through the robots with ease. My vision goes, and I feel my body affirm my utter exhaustion as I fall to the ground, barely hearing the next few moments.

"Agh! You still had that much strength?! These crystals are garbage!"

"Noire and I's teamwork is… unstoppable! This'll sting, so… stay… still if you're gonna' want kids, you… stupid old hag!"

"E… Excuse me?! What did you call me?! Hey, get back!"

A loud gunshot sounds, and I find myself now at ease as I hear new footsteps.

"Holy… okes! Uni, Nep Jr.! You… eally… la… Noi…"

Now, I can black out in peace.


Even though I've read through this a couple of times, I am sure I've missed typos here or there and left some lines that aren't completely well-understood, but I think I've done an okay job regardless.

Next up will be Neptune's part, but I'll be merging it with Blanc's as Neptune's portion isn't really the longest thing, for reasons you will see.

So, thoughts? Should I continue, or let this drop ASAP?