("I have to be honest. This part with the events was probably the first time I felt a little exhausted after writing. Some parts were a bit tricky. Ah well, hope you enjoy this huge chapter, all the same!" - Yours truly, the author of this non-sense.)
"Yay! Now we can play again!" (Plutia)
A long while after Nepgear had recovered from her ailment, she and Uzume were generally chatting in a room of the building they were staying at. Also, there were the other girls in the group, as Thomas was away to fill up on adventuring supplies in the market.
"So Gearsy, how's that big project of yours you've kept under wraps going on?" Uzume asked, curious.
"Oh! Well I think I got most of the kinks out, although I really need to spruce the new lab I finally built!" Nepgear seemed excited.
"A new lab? So you're really getting into mechanics now?" Uzume's eyes widened at the progress her friend made.
"I'm not really much of a builder, but I have a place to work now! It'll be great for any new inventions." Nepgear said happily.
"That's amazing, Gearsy! So, when do I get to take a peek at it?" Uzume was pumped.
"I don't really have a timetable," Nepgear flustered a little, "I want to make sure my prototype is finished, first." Nepgear twiddled her fingers as she thought about the whole thing.
As that discussion was going on, a sign of dangerous portents came as Plutia, somehow being stealthy, snuck up behind the two, and was slowly rising up from the ground. If anyone was to make a guess, she was either crawling or crouching along the floor.
IF, who had been seated with Compa at a table, was sipping a little tea, before she noticed Plutia's movement, "Compa? I think we need to head outside for a while."
"Hmm? Really, Iffy? Is there something you need right away or-" Compa was soon surprised as IF helped her up and was pushing her just enough so they can get going.
"Believe me, Compa, some outdoor exercise will do us both some good," IF decided the tea was not worth saving, and the two soon exited, though Compa was not sure what was up with her friend.
"Hmm? The others just went out for a bit. I wonder why they didn't ask us to come with?" Uzume turned her head toward the exit.
The sound of a transforming CPU could be heard behind the two, but it was Nepgear who started to tense up.
"Ohhhhh Neppy Juuuuuniorrrrr. It has been wayyyy too long since we last got to play together," the sinister tone of one Iris Heart was enough to freeze up the CPU candidate.
"Uh oh, I recognize that crazy lady's voice from earlier," Uzume was next to tense up, this time turning to see the CPU, and taking a defensive stance.
"Well, aren't you the mystery solver, Uzume? I really do like those spunky, young detectives. Perhaps you would willing to play a little game with the two of us?"
"Run, Uzume!" Nepgear pleaded, "It's too late for me now, but you can save yourself!"
"What? And leave my best friend behind to some sadistic creep! N-n-no way!" Uzume was putting on her usual bravado, even as already she was starting to regret it, "I don't care if you are a CPU, you let go of Gearsy this instant!"
"Oh, someone to come rescue her dear friend! I actually really, really like that," Plutia laughed, "It just warms me up all over my body to see friendship be taken so seriously! Tell you what, Uzume. We play a little game where you try and rescue your dear friend here! Give it everything you've got!"
Iris Heart was grinning from ear to ear as she stepped ahead, Uzume stepping back as they circle the room, "You want to save your friend, yes? And you would do everything in your power to do that, riiight?"
Nepgear shook her head in a quiet plea for Uzume to back down, but Uzume is a very stubborn CPU, and she glared defiantly at Plutia, "That's right. I'm not going to back away while you do whatever weird things you want to do! I, Uzume Tennouboshi, shall be the one to finally stop you!"
Iris Heart was absolutely thrilled by this, "Oh yes! This is fantastic! Neppy Junior, your friend here is an absolute treasure! I can see why you two get along so well!"
"Plutia, please, we don't need to do this," Nepgear said, pleaded for Plutia to put off play time for another day... hopefully never. That, however, was not likely to happen. Plutia had a lot of stress to burn, and she missed playing with her friend, even if her way of showing affection was... something you would expect from a villain, quite frankly.
"But Neppy Junior, I missed you so much," Iris Heart said joyfully, "And Uzume here is so kind enough to back you up. I really want to see just how far she'll go! So come on, Orange Heart, show me how much your friendship is worth to you! Don't hold back! Because I won't hold back, either!"
"Uhhh, I think I may have screwed it up here," Uzume murmured to Nepgear.
Nepgear sighed, "It's okay. I'm glad you are here by my side for this, at least."
Plutia seemed even more pleased by the two, "Oh, this is just so sweet! I can hardly contain my excitem-"
A door suddenly opened behind them, and the three were interrupted by the sound of Thomas re-entering the room, checking his inventory.
"Hey, I'm back from shopping. I got extra supplies for the voyage to Planeptune," Thomas said as he dug through the items he purchased, "I got a bit of local tea for when we're at another hotel and need something to drink. I got some water bottles for the trip to keep hydrated. I got a couple of basic battle items, some potions, antidotes, some Dr. Nepper, and a bunch of Nep Bulls. Never really liked Nep Bulls, but it's there if you want one later. I'm keeping one Dr. Nepper for myself though! Anyway, let's see, there's also a couple of tangerines I managed to get at the market. I'm surprised because Lowee is currently cut-off because of the..."
He noticed that no one had been speaking this entire time, and looked up from his inventory. Upon seeing IF and Compa no longer around, he turned to see the transformed Iris Heart and the two other, scared and confused by the turn of events.
Thomas' expression soured upon looking at Iris Heart, and both he and her exchanged an odd, blank stare. This staring contest gave a faint hope for the two CPUs. Perhaps Thomas had found a little backbone. Perhaps someone would finally step up to Iris Heart and be unintimidated by her! Perhaps Thomas would be able to save the girls this time in their time of need, to be saved from Plutia's crazy play time! Perhaps... oh, who are we kidding?
The two continued to stare, as Thomas closed his inventory, all the while tracing his previous footsteps and stepping backward, soon opening the door, and closing it in front of him.
"He... He bailed?" Nepgear asked, puzzled.
"Tomsy, you freakin' coward!" Uzume fumed her frustration out loud at Thomas leaving her to Plutia, yet again.
Plutia's blank stare soon turned into a frown, and Iris Heart shook her head, "Such a shame. Part of me was looking forward to that. Ah well, it would not have been fun playing with an already broken man like him."
Nepgear looked even more confused, "What? Broken?"
Plutia sighed, "Too bad. I kinda liked him. Anyway, where were we? Oh yes. Uzume, please help me out here, and show me some of that fire you had earlier. If you can't, well, don't worry, I'll think of some way to bring it back out." Iris Heart smiled once more, as the two screamed out in fear of their impending doom.
A few hours later, both Uzume and Nepgear were sitting by the wall, feeling extremely sore after their little session. Plutia now joined IF, Compa, and Thomas at the table, drinking some of the tea that Thomas purchased earlier. Actually, it was just Compa enjoying her tea, for the most part, being blissfully unaware of what happened. Plutia had slumped her head on the table, taking a little nap, happily dreaming away. IF and Thomas, meanwhile, just had gloomy faces on, not really thirsty.
"I take it you know about Plutia's, er, other side through Neptune, huh," Thomas asked the downtrodden IF.
"A little from her, but I also heard it from my other self in Ultradimension," IF said, "Seeing my face like that when talking about it said all I needed to know. How about you?"
"Mostly from Neptune, although she would dodge the more intense details, obviously," Thomas noted, "I pieced it together after reading some of the other accounts from the reports afterward."
"I just want to ask again. She is on our side, right?" IF muttered.
"I am both sure of that, and unsure of that," Thomas sighed.
"Y-y-yeah, I get what you mean there," IF said, as the two dropped their heads further.
"Tomsy," Uzume winced, barely able to get up, "Could you, come over here a minute? I need to tell you something."
"Uh, sure?" Thomas said as he moved off his chair and went over close to the two sore CPUs, "Do you need anything?"
Even though Uzume was sore, she was still capable of lifting her arm to lightly bop Thomas on the head once more, "Ow." Thomas grimaced as Uzume's fist remained on top of Thomas' head for a few seconds. Uzume just let it drop on its own afterward.
"... Asshole," Uzume groaned weakly.
"I deserved that," Thomas muttered to himself.
"Don't get mad at him, Uzume," Nepgear said quietly, "You should've fled too."
"Not now, Gearsy," Uzume complained, "Too sore to even retort."
"You can bop me on the head whenever you're feeling better, Uzume," IF consented, "I knew and fled as well."
Compa, meanwhile, was just enjoying her tea and looking outside, "If it wasn't for the firewall, I would say it looks like a wonderful day today!"
Plutia smiled, whilst asleep, murmuring, "It is a nice day outside! Ehehe..."
Compa smiled, and played a little with the sleepy one's hair.
"Communications seem to have gotten down too. Just our luck." (IF)
At the Haneda City Guild, Thomas was on a phone connection to Narita Village, talking to Gary, "Yeah, things seem to be secure for now here. How about over there? Things still quiet? ... Uh-huh. ... Well, that is good to hear. Did you manage to talk to Melissa? ... Oh, she contacted you as soon as the barrier went down? She was the first to contact you? That's some dedication right there! ... Heh, yeah, I guess she would be worried, 'Gary-kins'."
Thomas laughed, as IF was sitting elsewhere, checking one of her many cellphones, "Yeah, when this is all over, we'll have a nice dinner to celebrate. It'll be great! ... No, I am not cooking, you should be happy about that. ... Okay, no, I dunno when, I'll let you know. ... Uh-huh. ... Yeah, I'll be careful. ... I'm not lying, I will! ... Okay, you too. See you later. ... Bye."
Thomas hung up the receiver, thanking the agent who let him borrow the phone to call. He adjusted his hoodie as he was walking out, when IF cursed at her phone, "Still nothing. I sure hope they're all okay. Ugh..."
Thomas stopped, shifting his body to face IF, "Something the matter?"
"Just trying to connect with some of my contacts," IF shook her head, "No luck. This stupid firewall is pretty good at blocking communications. I can't even find info on what's happening over there."
"So much for getting some intel," Thomas frowned, "Looks like no matter which barrier we break, we'll be going in blind."
"Unfortunately," IF responded, "Though once that barrier's down, we can re-establish communication." She sighed, "Until then, my cellphones are gonna be rather useless."
"You mean all those phones aren't just for decoration, playing games, and taking goofy pictures of yourself?" Thomas teased.
"Ha ha," IF sarcastically laughed, "I have them for other things too, you know! I need to be in contact with many people to know what's going on. It's all a part of my role as the Wind that blows through all of Gamindustri!"
Thomas purposefully paused for a moment, "Right. You don't have an addiction problem at all. Nope!"
IF sneered at him, "I know you're just teasing, but seriously, bite me."
"I was," Thomas said, glancing away, "Sorry that I am not into the cellphone craze as you."
"I don't even see you with a cellphone!" IF exclaimed, "How is it that you, a person who was coordinating with the Guild when working with the Basilicom, who helped build some of the new routes in Gamindustri, and who brought about the formation of a few new cities-"
Thomas interjected, "I'm not really the one to credit for that. I was just a middle man."
"All the same," IF continued, "My point was how could you do all these that without even using a cellphone? This is the current generation of technology here. What do you do to communicate with others? Carrier Horsebirds?"
"I just use e-mail to talk with people if I'm far away, of use the landlines here. Otherwise, I do what normal people do, personally talk to them." Thomas seemed rather offended by this.
"Normal people use cellphones too, you know," IF argued, "It's quite a useful tool, like having a small miniature computer. I don't know if it's as advanced as some of Nepgear's toys, but it can be of great benefit!"
Thomas simply rolled his eyes, but before he could say some more, IF tapped the seat beside her, as she pulled out one cellphone, "Look. Come here for a moment. I'll show you."
Thomas shrugged, and sat himself down next to IF, who turned on the cellphone she just pulled out. IF smiled as she looked through her applications, "All those things you say you did before? You can easily do that on here." She tilted it a little for Thomas to see, "With a wifi connection, you can check your e-mail right away, and use the keyboard here to type in your reply."
IF next flipped the screen a few times to show her going through a menu, "Of course you can call people from here, but you can also make things a lot easier. Here's a list of some of my contacts. Hehe, I'm sure you'll recognize a few names there. I guess I'm just really famous or something!" IF took a moment to show off her impressive contact list. Thomas was having none of that, giving IF a glare.
"The point is, I treasure all of these people just like I treasure my friends," IF said, "I even went and got Nepgear's number here if she needed anything. Although, she sometimes sends me weird text messages about her weird mechanical ideas."
Thomas blinked, "I, er, see. Um, may I?" He wasn't sure of the interface, but he was inclined to get it a shot and look around.
IF hesitated for a good while, as this was one of her phones, and she wasn't willing to part with any of them. She eventually, but very reluctantly and slowly, handed the phone over to Thomas, "Alright, but do not screw it up."
"I will be very careful!" Thomas assured her, as he looked down towards the phone.
Oh, you know where this is going, huh? Let's speed it up! Doodily doodily - ahem, several minutes later...
"What the hell did you do to my phone?" IF took the phone back as she scrambled to undo whatever 'the hell' he did to it.
"I underestimated a cellphone's general complexity," Thomas, with his face drawing a blank, said, clearly out of his league.
"There's no way you could be this incompetent!" IF just couldn't believe the luck, as there were several error messages and pop-ups on her phone, in addition to her menu being all messed up and some of her apps being missing. Thankfully for her, she knew how to fix these errors, and she went to work on her phone.
"I-I'm sorry, I just never really bothered with this tech until now," Thomas grumbled, "I usually do a lot of studying before I get into a new technology. But, I don't usually do well on the first few tries. Poor luck with that."
"I still don't understand how you could be this bad. I really thought you were at least capable to just look around," IF was still dumbfounded by Thomas' terrible illiteracy, "That decides it! I'm gonna have to teach you how to use a cellphone."
"You really don't need to," Thomas objected, "I don't really need to use one, after all."
"Oh no, I am making it my mission!" IF stood up, pointing accusingly at him, "This is for the sake of all of Gamindustri! I can't have one of Planeptune's finest be so terrible at cellphones."
"But I don't work for Planeptu-"
"You will be taught the finer details of the cellphone," IF exclaimed, getting into the role she put herself in, "Or I will unleash the fires of hell!"
Thomas' eyes widened significantly, "I-I-Isn't that a little extreme?"
IF stared at Thomas for a few seconds, before she sighed, "Please?"
"Uh, o-okay," Thomas said with a confused look, "Please teach me, Iffy."
"Only once you get a cellphone," IF said, as she held her 'damaged' phone close to her, "I am not willing to sacrifice any of my own."
"Alright," Thomas said as he glanced away, "You don't have to offer, er, demand to teach me, though."
"It's for the best," IF crossed her arms, "And for the safety of cellphones!"
Somehow, for dramatic effect, as IF stood to pose, her coat began to blow in the... wind? Wait, that couldn't be right. Oh, someone just opened the door and caused a breeze in the room. Thomas just watched as the nameless, description-less NPC just walked past the both of them.
After that odd moment, Thomas bluntly said, "I'm heading out now. See you later."
IF blinked, "Y-yeah, later." After Thomas finally left, IF scrambled to fix what other errors were on her cellphone, "Seriously, how the hell did he... there there, you're back home where you belong. I'll never abandon you again, I promise!"
She brought the phone to her chest, wrapping her arms around like she was trying to hug it. Let's just go to the next event.
"Glad to be of help!" (Compa)
Back at the building the group had been staying at in Haneda City, Compa was busy checking on her giant, scary needle weapon, making sure it's clean, nice and shiny before using it against any more enemies. Compa had been really happy since the recipe she used to save Nepgear had worked, as evident by her humming a happy tune and rocking back and forth.
Thomas, returning from the Guild, returned to the room to see Compa looking really pleased and polishing a giant needle. He murmured, "Good thing I'm not here for a check-up."
"Hmm?" Compa heard someone, and stopped to look over, "Oh, hello Tom-Tom! Everything at the Guild go okay?"
"I think so," Thomas answered, looking back as he closed the door, "On the plus side, things are a little better now."
Compa nodded enthusiastically, putting away the needle, "Yes. I'm so happy to see that Ge-Ge is alright."
"This is what I actually came here for," Thomas said as he bowed his head, "I wanted to thank you personally, for saving her. I was starting to feel scared when that medicine wasn't working for a second."
"Aw, you're very welcome!" Compa beamed, as she folded her hands on her lap, "However, I wasn't alone. You, Iffy, Uzume, and Plutia were also there! I couldn't have done all this myself."
"Nonetheless, it was your idea of using that recipe that did it," Thomas said, rubbing the back of his neck as he sat down nearby, "You also helped me while we went for the ingredient, and I am very grateful for that, as well."
"I'm very happy to hear that, Tom-Tom," Compa said, "We all had to be in this together. With Ge-Ge around too, I'm certain we can save Nep-Nep and Histy too!"
"Oh, you're going to be joining us?" Thomas asked, as he didn't really ask if IF and Compa will be joining the group. Then again, he did not ask Nepgear either. He'll have to ask her later.
"Of course! I may not look like much, but me and Iffy have been fighting with Nep-Nep and Ge-Ge for a long time! We're not going to sit down on the sidelines while our friends are in danger!" Compa said quite simply, as Thomas grimaced. Considering what he said about leaving the fighting after getting to Histoire, Compa's words hit him a little in his heart.
"Uh, right. I'm definitely not stopping you, of course," Thomas spoke while glancing away.
"I'd walk through anything for Nep-Nep, Ge-Ge, and Iffy!" Compa exclaimed, "So no, you can't!"
Thomas cleared his throat, "I never really asked before, but... you knew Nep-Nep, er, Neptune, for a long time? How long has it been?"
Compa thought about it, then smiled, "Ever since I was just a nursing student! So, uh, a very long, long time! Really, we've been her best friends for so long, and Ge-Ge since she's been born."
"You probably know a lot about them," Thomas said.
"Yep!" Compa nodded, "Which is one reason I want to hurry and save them. I feel like our party isn't the same with them both with us, you know? It... it doesn't feel right."
"Hmm?" Thomas said as Compa started looking a little depressed, "A-a-are you alright?"
"Oh, sorry, I..." Compa winced, "This is reminding me of those years when ASIC kidnapped the goddesses. Me and Iffy managed to get them all out eventually, but, I don't want to go through something like that again. To be separated from the people you love, that is one of the hardest things in the world I can think of."
"People you... love?" Thomas inquired, unsure if he heard what he really heard, "You love Neptune?"
"Of course!" Compa said, perking a little, "Such a kind, happy-go-lucky person. I always have fun around her, even if she can be kinda lazy at times. Not to mention, every time I make some pudding, the way her eyes light up, oh it's just so cute!"
Thomas was caught off-guard by this, and said, "That's, uh, amazing! You're not one to hide your feelings, I take it!"
"That's right!" Compa exclaimed, "I love my Nep-Nep! Just as I love everyone! There is plenty of Compa love to be had by everybody!"
"Guh~!" Thomas turned a bright shade of red for a second as his mind raced. Was he hearing that right? It took him a few seconds, and Compa looking confused at his expression before he calmed down, the flush fading from his cheeks.
"Is something the matter?" Compa asked, "You're not coming down with an ailment, are you?"
"N-no," Thomas laughed, and said with a sheepish grin, "My mind thought of something else when you spoke of love, but I get your meaning now. I'm actually glad you feel that way about your friends."
Compa tilted her head, and if this were in visual novel format instead of the text you see here, there would've been a question mark drifting over her head.
Thomas shook his head, "Don't worry about it. It's not important. However, I am glad to have you aboard with us for this journey."
Compa, giggling, said with a clap of her hands, "No problem! Glad to be of help!"
Thomas sighed a little in relief. He pondered taking a long vacation after this to rest his poor mind as well as his body.
"If only I was a little stronger..." (Nepgear)
Long after her recovery from, well, everything so far, Nepgear was still trying to rest up in bed, as the girls readied themselves for a bit of rest. Thomas had entered the room, after checking to make sure it was okay since he didn't want Uzume to bop him on the head again, or worse since Plutia was around.
Thomas talked briefly with IF and Compa about their next step, which was heading to the Planeptune capital pronto and dealing with whatever's happening there. There wasn't an actual plan he had in mind, and they were going in blind anyway, so a full frontal assault was all he had. IF was disappointed that this was all they got, but there weren't any better ideas, so this was the plan by default.
Nepgear didn't really hear much of the conversation as she sat up, leaning against the back frame of the bed. She sighed, holding a pillow up to her chest to give it a hug. It did little to rest her doubts that were returning. She'd grown quite a bit from the scared CPU candidate that was tasked with saving the world one day. For a time, she thought she finally put some of those negative thoughts to rest.
Uzume noticed her friend was looking down in the dumps, as she sat on the bed next to her, "Gearsy? Something on your mind? Actually, just tell me what's on your mind. I can tell you're worried about something."
Nepgear blinked, "Am I that easy to read?" She pouted, but nodded, "You're right. Obviously, I'm worried about Neptune. It's not just that, though. I... I didn't really tell you guys what happened, right? How I went unconscious?"
"It did cross all our minds, I'm sure," Uzume said, "You can tell us now, if you want."
Nepgear nodded, as IF, Compa, and Thomas sat in chairs. Plutia, meanwhile, resting in another bed, was just listening in on the conversation while idly playing a bit with her plushie.
"There isn't much to say, honestly," Nepgear twiddled her fingers, "When that hole in the sky started, me and Neptune noticed it almost right away. I think I saw some other CPU in the far-off distance flying up there too. I couldn't see who it was, though."
She continued after a pause, "Me and Neptune transformed, taking to the sky to see what was up there. For all we know, it could've been a portal to another dimension or something. We had to check. As we went up there, lightning started shooting down. We managed to dodge the bolts, although I think I saw the CPU in the distance falling down. I think I saw an airship go down as well."
Thomas grimaced, but decided not to bring up his part in this. Nepgear kept going, "The hole quickly closed soon after. However, when the, I guess firewall?" Uzume nodded, and Nepgear resumed, "When the firewall started going down, me and Neptune were suddenly being chased by some small, flying ships. It was like something out of those sci-fi movies, or shoot-em-up games. It would be fascinating if these ships weren't tailing us, shooting lasers and trying to bring us down."
"Next thing I know, me and Neptune separated, to try and split up the ships giving chase," Nepgear was struggling to remember the next bit, "I finally turned around to take on the ships myself, and I dealt with them rather handily, but that firewall came down. I realized, I was on this side, and Neptune, Planeptune-"
IF filled in the blanks, "They were on the other side."
"Yes," Nepgear sighed, "And when I fully realized that, I wanted to do anything to get back. So, I did something stupid, and attacked the wall with my all that I had. But even touching the wall was enough to realize I made a mistake."
"So, when we found you unconscious, it was because you collapsed after that attack," Compa said.
Nepgear nodded, "I should never have separated from Neptune. If I was strong enough, I would've just stopped all those ships and stayed with her."
"You can't beat yourself up over what happened," IF consoled her, "This was something none of us really knew about. Hell, we still don't know everything. You did what you could, and we are glad you are still with us even after that brush with the wall."
"I feel like I've screwed up again," Nepgear complained, "I used to be a main character, but now I can't even beat a wall."
"Oh come on, Gearsy, don't be like that," Uzume held up a fist as she tried to rally her, "None of us could beat this wall back then, but we have the means now! We'll get Nepsy and show this wall the power of the Planeptune goddesses!"
"Mmhmm! They messed with the wrong CPUs! Whoever they are!" Plutia said, while trailing off and wondering who the main villains for this story are. Meanwhile, Thomas bit his lower lip, looking down and having a frustrated look on his face.
"Well, I guess you're right," Nepgear still didn't look too happy, "I just don't feel like I've done much. Maybe it's better that I just stay in the back row so I don't end up doing something stupid again."
"Oh for crying out loud," Thomas grumbled, before raising his voice to be heard, "Nepgear, do you remember the first time I encountered you?"
"Huh? Thomas?" Nepgear blinked, "I don't know why you asked but, wasn't it a few weeks after your internship? When you got a job?"
"That is incorrect," Thomas said bluntly, "There was a time before, and I'm willing now to tell this story, if you let me. There's a reason I'll tell this story now."
"That and to provide backstory, right?" Compa cheerily said.
"Don't break the fourth wall, Compa," IF said, before turning to Thomas, "Is this story related to what's going on here?"
Thomas just eyed IF for a moment, before waiting for Nepgear to answer. She replied, "Well, I guess I don't mind if you tell it. I am a little curious, now."
Plutia threw her plushie up, cheering, "Yay! More flashback noise time!"
IF murmured, "What did I just say about-" She threw her arms up, "I give up."
Thomas clapped his hands together, "Alright. I finally get to get this off my chest."
Uzume raised her eyebrows at this, as Pluta got to make some silly noises to bring us to a flashback!
Thomas' POV
I was raised during my childhood at a small, isolated farm on Hello Continent, to the far west. There wasn't a whole lot of people there, but it also didn't help that me and my parents were in an extremely isolated corner. My mother passed not long after I was born, so I was raised by my father, who pretty much kept to himself. I think he just wanted to be a hermit.
In any case, just as I was coming of age, my father passed on as well. The farm wasn't providing a whole lot, and things were getting pretty bad with monsters increasing, so I eventually left to wander. My grandfather left some notes from his adventures, I believe he was some sort of naval officer, but those notes helped me to make my own little boat. It wasn't anything fancy, and it took a long while to make, but when I finally had it ready, I started heading out of Hello Continent, and moved towards the main continent.
It was not a good time, however, on the land. It was a time when ASIC and the Deity of Sin were around and causing all sorts of problems. It was a low point in Gamindustri, and dangerous monsters were a common sight. I spent of my time out at sea, moving along the coast of Planeptune and living off of seafood and any vegetation I could get off the coast. I managed to survive, somehow.
I hit some rough waters as I went along the coast to where the Gamindustri Graveyard was, right in the center of the continent. Most of it sank into the sea now, and the rest was cleaned up eventually. At the time, though, it was very dangerous. Again, I was lucky enough to move through the harsh water, deadly winds, and storms, but the boat couldn't stay afloat for long. I had no choice, and crashed the ship, east of the Graveyard.
I had to flee, since I was severely under-leveled, and the monsters were all over the place. I did my best to avoid monsters, moving east as I remembered vaguely that Lastation was that way. On my way there, I ended up at Rebeat Resort. I wasn't really sure of the place, but I checked the area to see if I could use anything. Unfortunately, there was nothing but monsters there.
As I explored the region, I thought I was doing pretty good at sneaking around. However, I was confronted with a giant Fenrir. Those damn, freakin' Fenrirs. Ahem. I was no in way capable of defeating it, and it shocked me enough that had nothing happened, that would the end of my story right there.
Something did happen, though. Both me and the Fenrir froze at this bizarre sound that I certainly never heard of before. However, it was just enough to distract the Fenrir, who turned around and decided to go investigate it rather than deal with me. I bolted for the nearest cover and hid myself, hoping the Fenrir would lose interest. I wanted to make sure it was completely distracted, and peeked my head out from the cover.
What I saw, was a definite turning point for me. I saw a pitched battle between the Fenrir and a group. I wasn't sure who the others were, but there was one that definitely caught my attention.
It was a CPU candidate, transformed, with a rather large weapon and hovering with these giant wings. Although she seemed hesitant in fighting, when she did, it was quick and decisive. That Fenrir tried to fight back, but it was clearly no match. A monster like that was defeated so quickly, that it frightened me someone could even have that much power.
That CPU candidate was you, Nepgear. I mean, that's why I'm telling this story. At the time, however, I did not know who it was. Hell, I wasn't even aware that it was a CPU. I certainly wasn't going to just go up and say hello. I was way too cowardly, even compared to today, and so I snuck off and resumed heading east, towards Lastation.
I have never really been to civilization before, so it was a huge shock to me to see all sorts of strange buildings and people walking around. Although it was still during a dark period of Gamindustri, there was still some life here. Seeing any of these people around was enough to have me shaking. I wasn't sure how to talk to anyone or even start a conversation. The only one I ever talked to was my father, and we barely even talked. So, naturally, when someone came up to me and asked, "Hey there! Are you looking for something? Do you need some help?" I jumped.
"Aaaah! Uh, h-h-h-hello! Hi! Weather sure is great!" Nailed it, best introduction line I gave to anyone! That was certainly not sarcasm!
"Woah, take a deep breath there. Relax, I'm just offering some help," I can't remember exactly who it was and my memory's a little fuzzy, but I'm certain it was a young girl.
"S-s-sorry!" I continued to look uncomfortable, and tried to do what she said, managing to calm down a little, "I... I am quite lost. Wh-where exactly am I?"
"Lost? You are currently near Lastation's Guild," the girl replied, "If you're really lost, you can always ask the Guild over there to help you find your way." She pointed me towards the Guild, and I looked that for a second.
"Lastation? So this is Lastation," I murmured, my eyes certainly bulging out at the sights I was seeing.
"Haha, yeah, this is Lastation," She definitely heard me, "Have you been living under a rock or something?"
"If I said it was something close, would you believe me?" I asked her, as I scratched a bit of the little fuzzy beard that I grew over my time at sea. No, it didn't stay long. It was too itchy.
The girl sighed a bit, "I don't know what I can believe these days, but anything is possible." She then said simply, "Any questions you have, I am sure the Guild can help you out. I'm guessing you don't really have a home, either."
"N-no, not really," I replied, not wanting to go too much into detail, "I guess the Guild can help me out with that too?"
"Maybe. I am sure they can point you in the right direction," the girl nodded, "I wish you luck, then, sir. Hope you do fine around here."
"Thank you, young lady," I bowed my head in appreciation, as I turned toward the Guild before stopping, "Wait, may I ask you something, miss?"
"Hmmm? Sure, I guess, but can't you ask the Guild?" the girl asked, confused.
"I would, but I would like to ask you first, since I am not sure if talking about this to others is wise. This tale seems a bit crazy but... on my way over here, I had an encounter with a big monster, but it was defeated by this young, flying girl wielding a large weapon and... just saying that now makes me sound crazy. I'm sorry to have asked. I shall be on my way."
"Nono, wait," the girl stopped me before I could continue on my way, "Flying girl with a large weapon? She had a pair of bright wings behind her back, right?"
I nodded a little, to which the girl pondered something, "Well, odd, but okay, maybe you did see one a long while ago?"
"Oh?" I did not want to interrupt. I was hoping she had an actual answer for me, because otherwise I would be highly concerned for my sanity.
"It sounds like a CPU you might be describing," the girl gave me a clue into what a CPU was. Again, I wasn't familiar with them before. I only read a little about them in the few books and notes I had back on Hello Continent.
"Oh, is that what a CPU would look like? That comes as a relief," I said.
"Well, maybe you saw something else, but if you need to know more, there's the Guild. You can also check the library if you need to read on anything," The girl said, "I'm sure they'll point the way, though. You take care, okay?"
"Th-thanks, young lady!" We waved good-byes to each other as I headed to the Guild.
That conversation led me to do more research, to find out who exactly was there on that encounter. At the Guild, I would work with them to get some basic shelter, new clothes, and some food to start off. I would work some jobs at Lastation, eventually working to gain citizenship as I worked many temporary jobs. I would read many books at the library, many describing a lot more things about Gamindustri as a whole. I eventually figured out that a CPU was the one who saved me that day, and news of their exploits made me want to do something with my life. I really wanted to take this new chance.
I guess since I told that part of the story, we should get to that time I met Nepgear. After my internship at Planeptune finished, I was offered an entry-level position within the Basilicom. Although it was still mostly office-keeping, I was going to be considered a part of the Basilicom's staff proper. I was really happy to see my efforts pay off, even in an admittedly small way.
However, what I was not really looking forward to was the little ceremony where me and a bunch of other newbies would be sworn in as members of Planeptune's order or whatever the tradition went. I get that it's some old tradition they wanted to keep going, but to me, it was not something I cared much for. I don't think Neptune cared much for it, either. Still, it had to be done.
The ceremony itself wasn't the main issue I had, though. It was more the formal getup I had to wear. The priests at the Basilicom would wear these long, hooded outfits over themselves. Now I took a job that was not related to that sort of work, but the tradition went that everyone sworn in would have to wear one for the ceremony. So I did.
"This thing is heavier than I, urgh, thought!" I complained to myself, entering into the Basilicom lobby with the robe on, "How can anyone breathe in this thing is my guess. I don't even want to think about how to wear this when outside!" I wasn't too pleased, as the robe pushed down on me, as if the gravity of the entire world just increased, but only on me! Even the hood of the robe would push down on my head. It was so heavy, I think my eyes must've looked closed to anyone seeing this! It was hard to see, naturally.
Unluckily for me, my lack of vision led to me tripping on the robe, and falling over to crash on the floor. "Ow! Urgh... this is a pain."
"Are you okay, sir?" I heard a voice calling from above me. Somehow, my eyes were able to open just enough to see a girl kneeling beside me. The purple-haired woman wore a sailor uniform and striped stockings. She looked like a taller, older version of Neptune. I'm sure Nepgear got that a lot, since she's really the younger sister of the two. Oh, and yeah, that was Nepgear calling out just then.
"Yeah, s-sorry, I guess I just tripped on this robe, here," I sighed, trying to get up.
"Hold on, I'll help!" She was surprisingly strong, lifting me back to my feet as I tried to keep balance.
"Ah, thank you, miss," I said as I desperately tried to get my posture back up, "I am still trying to get used to this robe."
"Used to... oh! Are you one of the people attending the swearing-in today?" She asked me.
"Uh, yeah," I admitted, as I shifted in place.
"Ah! Well, it's nice to meet you! I'm Nepgear, the CPU candidate for Planeptune! I'll be attending the ceremony with my sister to welcome you into the fold!" Nepgear seemed happy to say hello, at least.
"N-Nepgear?" I blinked a few times before I snapped to, "Oh! Yeah, you do look very similar to your sister Neptune after all! I guess she wasn't lying about that! My name is Thomas. It is nice to finally meet you!"
"Thomas?" Nepgear pondered, "I recall Neptune mentioning a Tommy a few times before. I guess that was you?"
"Probably," I said, not sure if there were any other people with my name. I didn't know everyone on the staff, after all. I continued, "I didn't think Neptune would talk about me."
"She doesn't talk a lot about the staff, but Histoire did mention about Neptune's hiding in the break room and your name popped up," She sighed, "Sorry about that. Neptune tends to slack off sometimes."
"So I've seen," I said quietly.
Nepgear then jumped up, and said, "I should probably get ready soon! I'll meet you at the ceremony! Oh, and take it slowly! Those robes look awfully big on you."
"Oh, so it is just me," I sighed, but it was already too late to change into a smaller size, as I would be called to the main aisle of the Basilicom shortly, "I shall see you then."
Later, me and the newbies went into the central aisle and sat ourselves down. Some of us were chatting about random things, but the main thing was of course the ceremony.
"So, uh, you ready to finally meet with the goddesses?" One of the new guys was talking to another in the seats of front of me.
"Yeah man, this is what I've been waiting for even since I joined!" The other guy replied, clearly excited. I can't really blame them. I mean, I've met both of them at this point, but to some of these people, this is something completely new.
"I hear Purple Heart is completely different when she's not in her HDD," one of the guys said, as that piqued my interest. Well, it did, until some of them started to talk about things I don't want to say here. Really, people have a hard time making up such nasty rumors! And no, it was certainly nothing you hear from some creepy person! Please don't look at me like that.
I will not go over the ceremony because it was extremely boring, but we went through the motions. Histoire was out to give a speech about joining with Planeptune, helping to make the world a better place, all the nice stuff that would fill an hour or three. We got to the end of the ceremony, when Histoire spoke up.
"I want you all to meet the CPUs now. Over the years, we've had a few new CPUs, and over time, there have been incidents where staff do not recognize them, either in their HDD form, or as a human. This part has been added so that, in the future, such incidents would not occur."
Histoire said all this, and I just cringed. This probably would've saved us a bit of grief had I known about Neptune earlier when I was still an intern. I'm sure Histoire has thought about it since then.
"In any case, I shall present their human selves first. I shall introduce first, the CPU of our nation, miss Neptune, also known as Purple Heart," Histoire introduced her first, as the perennially energetic one bounced in from the left side, waving both her hands in the air and getting several polite claps as that was part of the strict manner we were told to proceed. Yay tradition.
"Hey guys! Give a little shout-out to your CPU goddess! Woooooo! Let's Nep it up! Nep it up! Nep it up!" Neptune called out with an attempted chant, throwing tradition in the bin, causing some in our crowd to start cheering and making some noise. Thankfully, only a few followed Neptune's silly chant.
"Neptune, please!" Histoire pleaded, before she glared at some of us who went off the script. The crowd soon simmered down, and Histoire continued, "Right. The next and last I shall call up is our CPU candidate, miss Nepgear, known as Purple Sister."
She gestured to the other side of the aisle, and Nepgear nervously walked in, before giving a small wave, "Uh, hello everyone! I hope you enjoy your stay here."
I'm not gonna mention some of the reaction from the crowd here, but Neptune did a little cheer to try and pump everyone up. Or maybe she was trying to make Nepgear relax somewhat. She seemed nervous at times. I guess this was one of those times.
Histoire cleared her throat, "Ahem, yes, good. So, these are our goddess, as they are when they are in human form. Now, I suggest those of you how have issues with bright lights to shield your eyes at this time." She waited about three seconds, than said, "Alright, they shall now change into their HDD form. You two, if you would."
"You got it! Eyes on me, please!" Neptune insisted as she and Nepgear began their transformations. I had to shield my eyes, not that it was a major issue since they were mostly closed already! Stupid robe.
Still, as the light faded, and the two goddesses were changed, there were many murmurs in the crowd as they took the sight in. For me, it was a strange sight to see Neptune go from a small, silly person to the more mature CPU, physically and mentally. The crowd was right, she was very different from her human counterpart.
However, when I saw Purple Sister standing there, trying to do her part in the ceremony without getting too nervous, my mind quickly recalled that day so long ago. It was there I realized who my indirect rescuer was. It was a shock to my system, and I think that's probably why I don't remember a whole lot afterward. Obviously, there were some closing words, a little reception with sandwiches and tea in the office after, but I could barely think after that.
The flashback ended as Thomas kept his eyes closed, still recalling from his story, "My life changed significantly after that encounter. At first, I just wanted to help the goddesses in any way I can. But after that ceremony, something clicked in me. It wasn't just out of a sense of simple belief, but of a immense debt I feel I owe the CPUs, and the people of Gamindustri, for giving me that one chance at a life here."
He looked to each person in the group, "Over time, back then, and even now, I find myself still relying on the kindness and efforts put forth by the CPUs, the candidates, their friends... and when I think of that, I can't ignore it." He then looked to Nepgear, "And it started with you just doing what you normally do, clearing monsters as part of a simple quest, as far as I know. So please, and I really do mean this... Don't ever, I mean ever, think your efforts are for naught, Nepgear. I..." He stopped, and glanced away, trying to get back his voice, "I think I talked a little much there, my throat's starting to give out." He coughed, using it as an excuse to hide that he was embarrassed for saying these things.
"Want some water, Tom-Tom?" Compa asked as Thomas nodded quickly.
Uzume, who had been listening intently, since it was a story of something in her nation at a time she wasn't around, so she was naturally curious, picked up where Thomas left off, "Exactly! Tomsy's got a good point there. Gearsy, remember, if it wasn't for you and what you did over in Zero and Heart Dimension, I wouldn't have been revived."
IF paused, "Right, and I know you aren't the 'main character' now," she winced at saying something so meta, "but if it wasn't for you, I don't think if any of us would be here. You did bring many of us together to beat the Deity of Sin."
Plutia smiled, saying quite simply, "Neppy Junior, quit being such a downer."
"All of you... you're right," Nepgear took a deep breath, "I should not like these setbacks get to me. We'll go get Neptune back, this much I promise."
"There we go! That's the Ge-Ge I wanna see!" Compa gives Thomas a glass of water, "Here you go, Tom-Tom."
Thomas, trying to cover his face a bit, whispered, "Thank you," And proceeded to take a drink of the water. This was he needed to do. He needed Nepgear to be motivated once more.
Once more, so he can end his own adventure. At least, so he thought.
