S.R.A.T.S. HEADQUARTERS- THE EVE OF THE WAR

Here we are: Part two of two of the S.R.A.T.S. arc! This chapter... looks to be another oddly organized one, so bear with me please.

...

We're so close to the end... Just a bit further...

Let's get this show on the road!


"Verty, you're just gonna sit there?"

Lady Green Heart, completely exhausted, looked up at her 'sister.' "Hm? Why, yes, I am perfectly content right here... I am much too worn out to take part in the festivities; do forgive me, dearest Chika." She smiled as brightly as she could muster, waving her hand up and down dismissively.

The oracle's eyebrow raised quite profoundly, but she simply nodded. "...Okay then..." With that, she left the room.

... Leanbox's CPU had been dealing with a horrid headache the entire day... Hell, she'd been dealing with headaches for at least a few weeks! By now, the pain had utterly enveloped her, and she practically drowned herself out from the rest of the world.

...That is, until a very important voice reached out, pulling her from the darkness of her mind...

"Lady Vert... Are you alright? Lady Vert?"

The goddess was startled, and darted her head to find her dear friend IF. "M-Miss IF! I-I didn't see you there!"

The brunette smiled warmly, and took a seat across from the troubled woman. "You look down, my lady... What's wrong?"

The CPU shook her head. "...I do not wish to trouble you, Miss IF... And besides, I... really don't know... My head has been killing me for days now, and I'm not sure why..." But deep down, Vert really did know what was wrong... However, you know the drill by now: she'd never admit the problem to anybody.

The battle-hardened veteran frowned just a teensy bit. "Well, that's no good..." She then did something unexpected: IF reached out and tenderly clasped the goddess' hand!

"M-Miss IF!"

"Hm? No need to get so flustered, my lady; I just want to support you, is all." This seems... kinda odd...

But whatever was going on, Vert cheered up just a little; being close to the girl she loved always did that to her. "...Thank you, Miss IF... You're a true friend."

The CPU gazed at Iffy's pleasant face and smiled, content for the first time that day. The brunette smiled back in response, then took the time to circle her hand around the room. "So, didn't you want to party, Lady Vert? Look, everyone seems to be having fun... or at least doing their own thing..."

The goddess did indeed look at the party around her. Everyone was so filled with life... The gang hadn't been together like this since Christmas; busy year, I guess. Although she wasn't feeling well, the atmosphere around the CPU was indeed very warm and inviting.

"...I'd rather spend time... with you, Miss IF... B-But only if that isn't too out of line!" Smooth.

The battle-hardened veteran's cheeks developed a light rosy tint, but she nodded her head with a cheerful grin. "O-Of course, Lady Vert! I could never turn you down." What's with so much 'Lady?'

And so the two began talking, seemingly closed off from the rest of the world...

...Let's leave them be for now... This chapter doesn't seem to be too structured... or important... so let's just get it over and done with as soon as possible...


LA DELE DELE

The S.R.A.T.S commander, Chip, walked up to Kei and placed his hand upon her shoulder as an old friend would. "Don't worry bout the battle, babe; with me in charge, ain't no way we'll lose!" Wait, didn't he like Lyrica, or has he forgotten that?

The oracle stared at the hand on her shoulder, looking most displeased; this man wasn't a close friend... or even an acquaintance. "...I do not associate with people like you... And my name is Kei Jinguji, NOT 'babe'..."

Chip smirked, but took his hand away. "Sheesh, what is with you guys? Do none of you understand my charms?"

"...Yes, that's exactly it; your charm is simply overwhelming... Now please, go away."

"So cold, man... Heh, I love it!"

Well, that's a great way to start... Why are you reading this again?

Kei shook her head as the scumbag walked away, and cautiously darted her eyes from side to side... Huh? Oh, wait, I see...

Confirming that no one was watching, the stoic oracle quietly approached the sitting Blanc, and took a seat beside her. "...Do you want to stay here all night?"

The foul-mouthed goddess stealthily whispered into her ear. "Nah, I can't stand bein' around these brats for that long. Wanna sneak out?"

"...Of course." And that's what the two secret lovers did; they quietly snuck out into the night, away from the crowded S.R.A.T.S party room... Man, that couple still weirds me out...


1. THE LEGENDS OF NEPTUNE AND NOIRE

As the two walked out, Neptune gawked slyly at her fiancée. "So Noiwey, how long d'ya think Blawney and Robo have been shackin' it up?"

The tsundere double-taked. "W-What? Whaddya mean by that?... And 'Robo?'"

"You know: Your cyborg of an oracle has been tapping Blanc's sweet bootay! Ahhh, so androids can find love~" Well, which is it: Robo, Cyborg, or Android?

"Huh? Where'd you get that idea? If Kei was in a relationship, I would've noticed imm-" And then Lady Black Heart began thinking real hard... The odd looks Kei and Blanc shared; all those times the oracle had been missing from the Basilicom; her rather-impartial attitude to mistakes now... except when she was 'busy' on the phone in her room at night... "...Holy crap! Kei's in a relationship!... And with Blanc?!"

"I know, that's how I reacted! Huh... coulda sworn Blanc would've gone down the 'tapping Vert' route... Appeal to more fans that way, y'know?"

The tsundere's revelation left her flabbergasted. She hadn't recognized the clear-as-day signs until right that very second! How did she miss that? Had she simply been too caught up in her own life to notice everyone else around her? Did she simply not care to notice?

Come to think of it... Blanc had been much calmer, as well... Did love change those two? Did love have that kind of power? To completely and utterly alter one's entire character?

...It reminded her of when Neptune acted like a total...

"...N-Noire? Why are you quiet alla sudden?... W-Well!? S-Say something!"

Yeah, like that... Neptune acted like a total tsunde... Huh!?

Lady Black Heart's eyes widened, and she stared directly at her lover. "Hm? Nep... tune?"

"Why are you ssstaring at me? I-Idiot!" Uh oh... Was this happening again?

Last time, an intense moment of *cough* passion had apparently transformed the ditz into a tsundere... However, nothing of the sorts had happened in the past few hours, for sure! So how was th-

Noire suddenly came to a certain conclusion: Neptune was faking it, and was just trying to mess with her! Well, this actual tsundere wouldn't let it slide, that's for sure!

"...Because I luv ya, baby! I want yer bod!" Damn, Black Heart's... a natural at this...

The CPU of Planeptune accepted the challenge. "W-W-W-Wha!? H-How stupid are you!?"

"I'm only stupid for YOU, bay-bay!"'

"S-Stop that! You sound like a... like a... like a complete doofus!"

Noire grinned slyly, completely breaking all semblance of character. "Oh, come on! You know you love my eccentricity!"

Neptune puffed out her left cheek and turned her head away. "Hmph! Eccentricity's a pretty big word for you!"

"Then my radicawesomio-ness! You dig mah radicawesomio-ness!"

"T-That's not a word!" The former(?) ditz's entire face now flared a deep crimson color; ooh, she's certainly practiced! "...S-Stop making it seem like I care about you... I-I don't! I-It's not like I lllllllove you, or anything..." Hook, line, and sinker! She's got this in the bag.

But Noire had one last trick up her sleeve. "Oh yeah? Well," from her hammer-space came a cup of pudding, at least two months expired. "I have THIS!"

Neptune stared blank-faced at her fiancée... and the two broke down laughing. "Oh man, you're a natural ditz Noiwey!"

"Heh, you're not so bad yourself... T-Though, I don't sound like a tsundere all the time!"

The two embraced in the oddly touching scene... I would remark on how strange it was that Noire would go along with that whole schtick in public, but I guess the two were getting married... Nothing to hide anymore, right?

...

Though, not everyone was ready for the displays of affection yet. "W-Wah! Y-You guys are so embarrassing!" Uni cried, having walked right into the scene. With a blush, she wagged her finger at the two lovers for a moment, but then turned tail and ran.

Noire shook her head. "Jeez, she's one to talk... Still can't believe my sis is dating your sis..."

"I know, right!? Woah, when we get married, won't they be, like, sisters? Pretty kinky..."

"...I'm not sure it works that way... B-But, let's never mention it again in case..."

And so, the two that started it all- the lovers at the direct center of the calamity trigger well over a year ago- spent the evening simply relaxing together in the presence of all their friends. Nothing that lied ahead could ever tear them apart...

Nothing...

"Yo, Noiwey, toss some jelly beans in mah mouth!"

"Why would I do that? Get them yourself!"

"Aw, but that's not as fun!"


2. THE LEGENDS OF NEPGEAR AND UNI

"Geez... They shouldn't do embarrassing things in public..." Uni remarked, puffing out her cheek.

The purple-haired candidate smiled. "I think it's kind of cute, actually... Noire's never looked so happy before."

"Yeah, well... It's just weird, y'know!?"

The two innocent little sisters weren't really in the partying mood tonight, so they found themselves a quaint little corner of the S.R.A.T.S. recreation room and sat together in peace.

However, one little disappointing piece of news was about to drop on them...

Histoire hovered over to the sisters, Mina right behind her. "Hello Nepgear, Uni... We have something we wish to discuss with you..."

The purple sister smiled at her oracle. "Sure Histoire... What is it?"

Uni eyed the tome suspiciously, but she listened to the fairy's words. "Now, this may come as a disappointment, but... well, we have all decided that it'd be in everyone's best interests if the CPU Candidates... stayed out of tomorrow's battle."

The lovers blinked at the floating book for a few seconds, then recoiled in shock. "W-What!? Y-You wanna leave us behind!?" Poor Nepgear cried. "But... But we can fight too! W-We're almost as strong as our older sisters!"

The young tsundere was clearly offended. "Y-Yeah! What's the problem with us helping, huh? I can beat Noire in a fight any day!"

Histoire looked to Mina for support, but the scholarly woman simply smiled with embarrassment and looked away. Thanks for the help. "...I know you all are more than capable to hold your own, but this is strictly a matter for the CPUs. Nothing, I dearly pray, will go wrong... but should something of such degree unfortunately occur, it'd be better to ensure you candidates are safe from harm."

It was a delicate situation, and Uni was beginning to listen to reason. She still didn't like getting the shaft... but if she was going to become a CPU someday, she'd have to learn to pick and choose her battles. She had to respect the tome's words.

However, Chip chose that second to stumble by, already drunk off his ass, and firmly gripped the young tsundere's shoulder. "What little lady-lay is tryin' to say is your accuracy sucks major Lickers! Better you stay home and not waste the ammo on the air AND your teammates! Those magician bastards have probably enabled friendly-fire, y'know! Just sayin..."

Histoire and Mina immediately responded in the negative about the dirtbag's comment, but Black Sister was too appalled to care. Insulted, her cheeks flared red and she wagged her finger frantically, trying desperately to find something to say.

...Failing that, though, she "Hmph'ed!" and stormed outside.

"U-Uni, wait!" Nepgear cried. She began to follow, but stopped to look at the S.R.A.T.S. commander. "Y-You're a real jerk, you know that!? Golly, I hope she's alright..." Without another word, she ran off.

Histy sighed, and looked to Mina. "...That could've gone much more smoothly..."

"She'll be fine; she's a big girl," the scholarly woman then rubbed her forehead. "I guess it's time to break the news to the children..."

Unsure of where Uni had run to so quickly, Nepgear searched high and low around the headquarters, until she finally heard several gunshots outside. "Uni?"

Lastation's candidate was aiming at a tree a few feet away, her triple-barreled shotgun ready to fire. With a grunt, she blasted another round of bullets, miraculously missing each one. "Damn it!"

The purple-haired candidate slowly walked up to her girlfriend. "Uni, are... you okay?"

The black-haired tsundere tried to tune the girl out, and took another few shots... which also missed. "...They're right..."

"Hm?"

"...I'm not fit to fight with them; I can't even hit a tree! I'd only hurt someone by accident..."

Nepgear suddenly hugged her fellow candidate from behind. "Don't say that! That shotgun is pretty gimmicky... Why don't you switch back to a rifle or something?"

Uni turned her head, hiding her bright-red face. "...B-Because we worked on this gun together... I NEED to make it work!"

The two stood in silence for a moment, until Planeptune's candidate ended the hug. Silent, she clutched Uni's hand and made her raise the gun once again. "Go on," she smiled.

Lastation's candidate grew flustered even further, but simply nodded. Supported by her dearest friend, she fired three more bullets at the stationary target.

Splinters filled the air, symbolizing a direct hit!

Uni, her spirits lifted, gazed dreamily at Nepgear, her mind hazy and desperate to find the right words to say.

...But, perhaps, there were no words to say. Maybe words couldn't express everything...

The love between these two... Putting it in physical terms would feel cheap, wrong...

Love... Can words express love and emotion? Can they really? Can simple text accomplish such a thing?

...You're the one who's been reading this up until now; you tell me.

"...I-I guess I'll let you hug me a little longer... B-But only this once!"

"Hm? But goodness, we even sleep in the same bed now."

"W-Wah!? Don't say that out loud!"


3. THE LEGENDS OF RAM AND ROM

"Whaddaya mean we can't fight!?"

"I wanna help... everyone..."

Mina smiled down at the children, both charmed and alarmed at their eagerness to take part in a possible war. "I'm sorry girls, but tomorrow may be far too dangerous to have you around!"

Ram certainly did not take to this well. "W-What are you trying to say, poop-nose!? That we're not mature enough to fight in an army?"

Rom hid behind her hands. "We can... do it..."

The scholarly oracle sighed, but held her ground. "I know you two are more than capable, but it simply can't be done. Two cute young girls like you would attract the wrong kind of attention on the battlefield, especially from the press."

The loud child puffed out her cheeks, actually secretly listening to reason for once. "Hmph! Well... if that's what everyone thinks of us, then... maybe I don't wanna help!" Didn't say she was fine with it.

Mina began patting the twins' heads. "We all appreciate your desire to fight, but-"

"It'd be much safer if you stayed home." A mystery voice interjected. Everyone turned to see Jade smiling like a smug ass. What's he want?

"What's the smug ass want?" Ram snarked, folding her arms. Hey, I just said that!

The aristocrat swayed his hand back and forth in the air, perhaps trying to look elegant. "I am merely voicing my agreement with dearest Mina. First thing in the morning, you two are to be sent back to Lowee with the other two CPU Candidates. From my understanding," he motioned towards the oracle, "the great wall Lady Blanc had ordered is now fully constructed? Seeing as Lowee is not a current target, and that wall was meant to keep destructive creatures like dragons out of the castle, you all will be safe from harm in a worst-case scenario."

Mina nodded; the wall surrounding Lowee's castle/Basilicom had been fully finished a mere few weeks ago, just in time for the one-year anniversary of the dragon swarm. White Heart wasn't taking any chances with the... harmless creatures.

Ram was about to retort, but Rom quickly clutched her sleeve. "Huh? Leggo Rom!"

"It will be... all right. Let's stay in Lowee... with Nepgear." The quiet child smiled, appearing wiser than her age. She must've seen the sense in the adults' words. Good kid.

The brash child could only give in to her wishes, and zipped her mouth shut. Truth be told, spending a day with Nepgear would be rather nice... not that she'd ever say such a thing!

So, the two children nodded, Ram still looking as pissed as a loli could be. They had to face the facts: they weren't gonna be able to take part in the war.

Content, Jade bowed gracefully before turning and walking further into the room. Mina did the same, not wanting to take the risk of angering the children further. After this past year, the oracle was simply too emotionally drained to try...

The pink-clad child sighed, then darted her head around frantically. "Hmm... well, we can't kick ass in battle, but... we CAN defend our home at least! I guess..." No matter what, the disappointment wouldn't go away.

But the blue-clad loli wasn't ready to let that bring her down! She happily clasped her sister's hand. "We'll... SUPER defend Lowee! Mina trusts us with defending our home, so we can... do it!"

That brought a small smile to Ram's face. "Y-Yeah, you're right! We'll beat the stuffing outta anyone who even looks at our castle the wrong way!" Ah, future leaders...

And the night went on for the children; two unfortunate girls living in a world where adults decide their fate...

"Oooh! Rom, let's play over there!"

"I don't wanna. I'm... tired..."

"Aw, come on, party-pooper! Now you're starting to sound like Blanc..."


4. THE LEGEND OF JADE

Roughly over a month prior to the party, back before the aristocrat had introduced Rei Ryghts to the A Brothers, he was visited by a familiar face... once again.

It was 3 AM... The heart of the witching hour.

"...Hello Lil J..."

The elegant boy was startled awake by a sing-songy voice, though all he could see around his bed was darkness. "W-Who's there!?"

No movement. "It's just me, Jadey... I've come to tell you something important..." That familiar female voice again...

The aristocrat's eyes narrowed, still essentially blind. "...Cerise, is that really you?"

"Hehe... Kinda... But that's not the important part! I'm here to talk about the brothers you've been hanging out with."

"You mean Adrian's group? What about them? I did what you told me long ago... Y'know, befriend any holder of that tome? I've been helping them for months now."

"That's wonderful, JJ. Now, though, I- I mean, PALE HEART- needs you to sabotage them."

This caused Jade to dramatically tilt his head. "W-What!? S-S-Sabotage them? But... why?"

"I dunno... Pale Heart commends you thus far, but has decided that remaining with those brothers for much longer will be a horrible idea. They are heading on down a path that leads only to death... I don't want to see you get hurt, Lil J."

"But... they're my... friends. And we're doing so well..."

"It will all come crumbling down eventually, Jadey. Those boys are destined to fail, and they'll take you down with them... unless you secretly turn against them."

"I don't think I... can..."

"Jade, do you want to take revenge on Green Heart?"

The aristocrat was once again thrown for a loop. "G-Green Heart? O-Of course... That's my life's purpose..."

"Then betray them. I promise, if you listen to what I have to say, you will get the perfect opportunity for vengeance."

"Cerise..."

...

Jade was now casually strolling around the S.R.A.T.S. party room, resigned to the decision he made. In the end, he had sabotaged his friends in the hopes of destroying Vert...

They were his only friends... Jade had no one, apart from them and Singe, his fatherly figure. Now, he had condemned them to die...

"...I'm sorry, boys... I'm sorry, Adrian..."

...

Oh well... Perhaps it was better off this way.

The aristocrat, having just set-up another step of his plan by convincing Ram and Rom to stay in Lowee, was ready to leave this crowded scene. However, he stopped in his tracks when he caught a glimpse of the target of his utter hatred.

"...How easy would it be to kill her right here?"

At the table in the center was, of course, Lady Green Heart, clearly in pain. The woman he so longed to murder... helpless right in front of him! Everything would end if he simply walked over and slit her throat...

However, Jade wasn't going to be a martyr or anything; his goal wasn't a suicide run. If he killed Vert, he fully intended to live his days out in peace, free from all chains.

...Bloodying his hands here would only land him in jail... or worse. For now, he had to show restraint...

His unknowing mortal enemy was safe for at least one more day...

"Hey, stop right there, ya jerk!" Yet another familiar female voice... though this one not nearly as pleasant.

Jade turned around and faked a smile at the oracle standing tall. "Why, hello to you too, Lady Chika... If you'd excuse me, I was just on my way out the door..."

Vert's "sister" stomped up to the boy and wagged an overly dramatic finger in his face. "Don't give me that crap! I'm on to you, ya little brat! No matter what anyone else thinks, I remember that you threatened us! You're all kinds of fishy; I can smell it! I may be the beautiful oracle of Leanbox, but it's my duty to keep all of Gamindustri safe from assholes like you!"

"I... sense slight hostility, Lady Chika... If I was dangerous, wouldn't I have done something suspicious today, while all the world's leaders sat in a single room?"

The oracle continued wagging her finger. "I don't know what yer planning, but as soon as you slip up, I'll be the first one to wring yer ass out to dry." Kinky.

The false gentleman, unfazed, simply shrugged. "Do as you must. Now... please excuse me, but parties really aren't my thing. I'm leaving." He slowly, tauntingly, walked to the door. "Until tomorrow, fair Chika!" And with a strut, he was gone.

...

The lone aristocrat, who had chosen to give up his friends for a chance at the ultimate redemption, walked into the cold night, shrugging off the familiar feeling of loneliness...

"Don't worry, sis... I'm so close... In just a few short weeks, all will be normal again..."

...

"I'll save you, Cerise..."


5. THE LEGEND OF CHIKA

Leanbox's oracle was left standing in annoyance as she watched Jade leave the S.R.A.T.S. headquarters. "The nerve of that jerk! Ugh, even imagining what thoughts he's had of my darling Vert... Ew, I'm getting chills!"

Ah, Chika Hakozaki: Green Heart's self-proclaimed(?) sister, and biggest fangirl to boot (she even has a plaque to prove it)! As long as Vert was happy, she was happy...

However... this past year had been hell on Chika, much as it had been on everybody. Her dearest sister had been getting more and more... depressed? Hard to tell with Vert, really. At the very least, though, she lacked the energy she once had. The two would still give each other massages, but... it wasn't the same.

Even at this party, surrounded by friends, Vert still looked miserable... Well, if anyone spoke to her, she'd immediately smile at them, but a true sister would notice the subtlety of her demeanor!

Concerned as ever, the sassy oracle found the object of her affections sitting quietly at the long center table... Huh, where'd IF go? Maybe the bathroom, or something...

"Vert! How are you feeling?" Chika yelled a bit too loud, rushing over to clutch the goddess' hand.

Green Heart looked up at her close companion. "I am fine, Chika... Just a little headache is all. Please don't concern yourself with me."

"But I have to! I worry about you, Verty..."

Vert smiled, and gently clasped the oracle's hand. "I appreciate everything you do for me, Chika; thank you. But there is really nothing to worry about." Yeah, that's convincing...

"Well, okay then... B-But you better tell me if anything is bothering you!"

"Ha, I will..." Just then, another massive pain must've struck the CPU, for she clutched her forehead most intensely.

"V-Vert!"

"Ah... I-I'm fine, just a migraine..." Green Heart closed her eyes for a few moments, then opened them to look up at her sister. "Chika... Promise me you'll never leave my side. I... need you."

It was an unusual request... but one that instantly warmed the oracle's heart. "O-Of course! I-I'm yours forever, Verty! I'll love you always!"

The goddess giggled. "I love you too, Chika. Now, go and have fun! I'll be fine by myself for now."

Chika glomped her sister from behind. "Okay Vert... I'll be checking up on you, though!"

"I'm counting on it."

...

For once in a long while, the oracle felt somewhat at peace... though she wasn't sure why. Vert was obviously hiding her troubles from her, but... something just felt genuine for once.

It's a sister thing. I certainly don't understand; closest I've ever had to a sister was Mag... ah, nevermind...

All that matters is that, no matter what happens, Chika would follow Lady Vert to the bottom of hell if the need ever arrived...

Is devotion such as that really healthy?

"Vert! Ooh, shall I give you one of my award-winning rub-downs?"

"Not right now, Chika. Maybe after our business is done."

"Awwwww... C'mon! I haven't touched you in weeks!"


6. THE LEGENDS OF HISTOIRE... AND MINA

"It's good to see Chika can still make Vert smile, don't you agree?" Histoire asked, her small head turning to look at her dear friend.

Mina simply nodded, her mind completely elsewhere.

The two oracles were sitting at... well, a bar in the corner of the S.R.A.T.S. headquarters. Unfortunately for the scholarly woman, however, this bar served no alcohol; only fruity juice drinks.

"Blanc is missing again..."

The tome fairy lightly frowned. "This again? Mina, you have to let it go."

"..."

Is time on anybody's side these days? You already know this, but I suppose it needs reiterating anyways: as the months flew by, Mina only grew more bitter and exhausted with everything. I really doubt she's that old, but she was going through her own type of mid-life crisis, and wasn't even trying to fight back.

And, right now, it was all because of one couple that was manufactured to confuse.

"You know what's really insulting, Histoire? Those two haven't said a thing! They sneak out every chance they get to see each other, and Blanc always gives me a flimsy excuse when I catch her. It's like she doesn't trust me enough to tell me..."

The fairy nodded a bit, and took a very small sip of the too-fruity juice. "I know how you feel, but we must respect their privacy. Those two have always kept to themselves, and love is a very delicate thing; they're simply not ready to let anybody know. And besides," she said before taking another sip and almost coughing, "this whole situation probably isn't helping matters. As soon as Neptune and Noire made a monumental announcement about their relationship, a rebellion immediately followed. A CPU falling in love with anybody, especially an oracle of a different nation, will not be received well by the general public... They're nervous, and add their personalities to the mix... well, I understand their silence."

The scholar shook her head, watching Ram and Rom talk to each other in the background. "I still don't like it... Blanc doesn't need me anymore, I guess."

"That's not true! Of course she needs you! She just has a funny way of showing it."

"The children don't need me, either... They're growing up, at least emotionally. The whole family is doing better than I could have ever hoped... I'm outdated; a relic of the past."

Histoire grew alarmed. "Mina, don't say such things! Without you, what would become of Lowee? You do so much more than you realize!"

The tired scholar grew silent for a little while, shaking her glass of juice. "Why do you care, Histoire? You should be worrying about Planeptune matters; you have nothing to do with me."

The tome fairy frowned again. "Because you're my friend!" How many times this past year has this scene played out? "I care about your well-being, Mina! It pains me to see you this way..."

The woman bit her lip, unsure of how to respond. Perhaps Mina was more like Blanc than she realized; finding it difficult to reach out to others, always keeping to herself... They fit together rather well, in a funny kind of way. Only difference was how the two of them vented.

It was a vicious cycle of depression, though. As soon as the scholar felt herself cheering up, she'd immediately be pulled back under... When would it end?

...Not today, that's for sure... Maybe not even next week. Maybe it would never end...

All that's certain is that Histoire was not ready to give up on Mina yet. She was determined to remain by her side...

...For now, all we can do is wait and see what fate has in store for these two friends...

"I'll always be here for you, Mina. You're the closest friend I have... I'll help you, one way or another!"

"...Thank you..."


Speaking of that odd, manufactured couple...

7. THE LEGENDS OF KEI AND BLANC

"It's rather chilly for a Spring night, don't you think?" Kei asked, huddling her arms close for warmth. Ah, so it's Spring?

"Ah, I'm used to it... Here." Blanc replied, suddenly latching on to the professional oracle. "Now my cuddly fluffy body will keep ya warm." A sly grin.

Kei chuckled. "Well, you are indeed fluffy... So, where shall we go? I know we rarely meet on Lastation, but there are some rather quaint diners around here. Shall we visit one?"

"That sounds cool." Just that second, however, something caught Blanc's eye. "Hold on... Can we check out some books first?" How unexpected...

"Uh, sure." Well, that settles that!

The two entered the 'Sheds and Aristocratic' bookstore, and the foul-mouthed goddess quickly hovered to the 'New Arrivals' section. "Ah, here we go."

"Hm, what'd you find?"

Blanc grabbed the book and held it up. "It's a compilation of A. Christin's greatest adventures. She's gone missing for almost a year now, so the media is trying to capitalize by releasing weak attempts at First Editions; y'know, trying to create a massive collector's item. Pathetic, really..."

"...So, do you want to buy it?"

"...Yeah."

So, Blanc's a huge fan of this 'A. Christin,' huh? Wonder how she's doing now?

...

After the impromptu stop, the two lovers eventually made it to an Avenir-sponsored coffee-house... because Lastation residents love themselves some coffee? And wait... is it really safe to be walking the streets while anti-CPU sentiments are raging? Oh well...

"Hello, you two... Please, sit anywhere you like." A charming boy, around Jade's age, greeted. He was a very bland handsome male (of course), with short and wild dark-brown hair (almost black), classy glasses, and clad in a snazzy business suit... Isn't that a bit excessive for a waiter?

Oh, and his name tag says... hmm, Ganache? What kind of name is that?

Kei bowed. "Thank you." The two took their seats at a table in the corner, and the boy quickly waltzed over.

"So, what can I do for you lovely ladies?" he attempted to say in a charming manner.

Blanc looked at the menu. "Damn, no tangerines... or food at all..." Is that all she ever talks about? "Hm, iced coffee, I guess. Make it kick-ass, or there'll be hell to pay." Such a calm delivery, it's disturbing.

Kei nearly chuckled, but suppressed it. "I'll have the... Avenir-brand canned coffee? Sounds... unique..."

Ganache bowed. "I'll have your drinks right away." And there he goes.

Lady White Heart grew a peculiar smirk, and the oracle could only smile. "It's amazing, really," was all Kei said.

"Hm? What, the coffee-house that only sells coffee? Not even a sammich on the menu."

"Heh, no... Your smile."

This surprised Blanc. "W-Wha? S-Since when'd ya go sappy?"

Kei closed her eyes, wearing a sly smile. "Sappy, but true... You've looked so happy lately. Whenever you smile, I feel... safe; relieved even."

"K-Kei... Well, I am happy. Yer a cool chick."

"Heh... that too: you act almost like a completely different person now. Calmer, more outgoing... I like it."

The CPU's face was extremely red, but she maintained control. "Different, eh? Ah, I suppose I shoulda said 'Hell yeah, I've been happy! I've been hangin' out with a sexy-ass chick, with a great bod I must say, and I haven't had to deal with Thunder Tits or the rest of those bitches for most of the year!' How's that?"

Another charming chuckle. "Very good, very good." Ganache chose that moment to return with the two drinks; a quick bow, and he quickly walked off. Kei picked up her canned coffee, took a sip... and instinctively almost choked on the horrid taste. "Bleh... This establishment is certainly not up to par with Lowee's..."

Blanc, too, took a sip. "Eh, it's alright. Doesn't kick ass, though." A silent moment, and the goddess reached for her lover's hand. "Hey, Kei... thanks."

"No, thank YOU, Blanc... I love you."

"That never gets old... Love ya too, hun."

"...Hun?"

"Heheheh... Worth a shot."

The boyish oracle laughed some more. "If you say so... I could get used to that."

And thus, the two unlikely lovers, brought together by the interference of a certain dragon girl, reveled in their feelings for yet another night...

...

In the background, Ganache eyed the two girls eagerly. Pulling out his phone, he called someone on his speed-dial list. "Yo, Singe... Blanc's right in front of me. Is now the time to strike?"

"How the h... Isn't she at that gathering with the other CPUs? Ah, no bother... No, that comes later. This plan hinges on events playing out in a very specific order. Springing too early will disturb everything. Patience, boy; Jade will decide when the time is right."

"Aw, why do I have to wait for Jade? No fun..."

What a... curious conversation. Is this Ganache gonna show his face again?

...

"Now, what to do with this crappy coffee? Hm, wanna switch?"

"Hell no! You have a sweet ass, but I don't want no poison from you."

"The likely response... You're lucky you have such a cute face, Blanc..."


Hm... A. Christin, was it?

8. THE LEGEND OF FALCOM

"Why aren't we flyin' to the mainland again!?" A red humanoid yelled over the rushing of water, sitting on the wing of a bi-plane surfing through the ocean.

A figure behind the cockpit, a blue hedgehog, replied with annoyance. "'Cuz this plane's flyin' mechanism was struck in a dang tornado! I asked Tush for help, but he's still bitter over not being playable in the latest installments. Just be thankful the engine still works at all!"

Falcom, in the seat behind the 'pilot,' fought off the nagging sensation of sea-sickness. "U-Um, Snoic... How long until we reach shore, exactly?" An appropriate question for the fastest thing alive.

"Eh, a few hours if we could fly... Maybe a day or two by sea."

"Ah, okay..."

A bit of exposition: As you may remember, Falcom had shipwrecked on a deserted island many, many months ago. There, she ran across Red, who fed her cryptic information about a possible meeting with either Nepgeo or Nepgear(?). Right after, she had then been brought before the fallen icon Snoic, who was hiding from the CPUs in fear of facing even more humiliation. The stock adventuress, being an honorable soul, had agreed to stick around and help the hedgehog for a little while... especially since she had no clear way off the island otherwise.

Well, in that time, she had grown accustomed to the native lifestyle... though she admittedly had tons of prior experience, if her novels are anything to go by. However, as time went by, she had tried to convince the animals to attempt to reconnect with the real world.

"You used to fight for the greater good, right? Well, you can't stay cooped up on this island forever! How about starting small, and talking to one CPU at a time? Maybe that way we can get them all to understand your needs better?"

The hedgehog rubbed beneath his black oval nose, as usual. "I dunno... Who would be a good starting point?"

Falcom thought of the best CPU to begin with... Neptune would be too crazy for sure; Vert's use of Snoic's name had brought him down in the first place; and Noire simply was the only CPU who never offered a console-exclusive title.

So, her mind immediately drifted to her biggest fan, Blanc. She would certainly accept Falcom and the "blue dude with the 'tude" with open arms. Voicing this opinion, the humanoid nodded his head.

"White Heart, eh? Maybe, just maybe... Okay, sounds great! However, it's a long ways away from Lowee... Gonna be a long trek. Maybe Tush will finally repair my plane..."

Well, Tush hadn't repaired the plane, but that didn't stop them! Snoic, Tuckles, and Falcom left the island for the distant Lowee, using the bi-plane as a makeshift boat. Eh, a bit slower, but if it works, it works.

...Wait, how are they getting to Lowee? Won't they crash into Leanbox or, best-case scenario, the mainland of Lastation? *sigh* Those humanoids aren't very smart... Hopefully their improv skills are remarkable.

A long travel lay ahead of them... Perfect for the adventuress to further organize her thoughts about the whole "Nepgeo/Nepgear" problem.

Nepgear: A gentle and kind friend whom she had secretly fallen for in their fight against ASIC, though it would have been obscene for a stock adventuress to profess her feelings to the main heroine. Still, maybe taking the risk would be worth it?

Nepgeo: A chaotic lass who had flipped Falcom's world upside-down with a single kiss. Her name was now all that she knew of the imposter, but her mind would never be at ease until she met her once more.

Two look-alikes, two drastically different personalities... Would the red-haired girl make the right choice, whatever that was? Or... would she even need to make a choice? What if fate already had it all figured out?

Only time will tell.

"...Did any of you bring anything to read?" Falcom hesitantly asked, realizing she was bored out of her mind.

Tuckles opened his mouth to speak, but quickly shut it. Snoic simply remained silent, now putting his full concentration into not piloting the makeshift boat.

"..." It was going to be a long trip...

So spells Falcom's destiny for a little while... I have a feeling this is the last we'll be seeing of her until the actual sequel. Hopefully she'll be in a better position (in every regard) by then...

"So, what does a stock adventuress do, anyways? I myself go through speedy action stages, though in recent years, it's felt like I've been on-rails... No one wants to play a game like that!"

"Um, well... I'm just a stock adventuress. It's... kinda hard to explain out-of-nowhere..."

"Ah, I see... Hopefully your adventures are better received than Tuckles' treasure-hunting gameplay."

"Hey! A lot of people liked 'Death Bedroom' and 'Asteroid Assemblage!' I guess 'Mad Aperture' is universally hated, but that wasn't me; that was that dang batgirl."

"...Um, I don't understand any of these references..."


Nepgear and Nepgeo... What a choice, huh? But, in another world, wasn't there another... Nepgear?

9. THE LEGEND OF CONQUEST

"Histoire! Histoire!"

The tome fairy quickly snapped back to reality, turning to face the calling IF. "Yes? What is the matter, IF?"

The brunette stopped for a moment to catch her breath. "I-It's Gear! S-She's gone! We can't find her anywhere!"

Compa immediately followed her into the Basilicom. "Ge-Ge's not in her room, or in the forest, or in the potty..." The medic was close to tears.

Histy was clearly puzzled, and she brought her hand to her chin accordingly. "Oh my, this is quite unlike her. She's not having another of her 'episodes' again, is she?"

The battle-hardened veteran shook her head, disgruntled. "Who knows with her..." She was about to say something else, but an unusual sight caught her eye. "Hey, Histoire... Er, has that door always been open?" she asked, pointing towards the door to the Basilicom's basement.

The fairy cocked her small head to the side. "Why, no, it hasn't; I explicitly said to never go down there!"

"Well, it wasn't us!"

The party of three exchanged nervous glances, and slowly approached the dark stairwell. "You don't think..." Histoire began, but zipped her mouth. With a new sense of urgency, she quickly hovered on down the stairs, IF and Compa right behind her.

"D-Don't run down the stairs so fast... It's dangerous!" Thanks, Compa.

In the basement, they saw the horrid shrine that held the cursed blade that claimed the blood of many... Well, it was supposed to hold the blade, at least.

"Gehaburn... It's gone!" Histy cried, looking around with immense worry. "Oh no! What is Nepgear planni-" This time, something caught her small eye. "...A note?"

Iffy walked over and picked up the small piece of paper that sat where the Demon Sword should have been. "Hm, what the hell?" Her eyes trailed the handwritten words, and her brows furrowed. "Yo, Histoire... you should have a look at this."

"..."

All three girls read the note, their worry growing to unprecedented levels. "W-What's this mean? Where's Ge-Ge!?"

"I... don't know... I'm at a loss..."

Nepgear, the only CPU that this alternate Gamindustri had left... was gone; vanished without a trace. The only possession she brought with her was Gehaburn, the cursed sword of legend.

"...This is very bad, isn't it?"

...

"Dear Histoire, IF, and Compa:

If you're reading this, then I have already left. I don't know how long I'll be gone, or really where I'm going at all, but I'll be fine; Neptune is guiding me.

I'm not sure how long it'll take, but I have a job to do. I'm not returning until I fulfill my duty...

I'm not returning until I save my sister and all our friends."


What the hell was... that?

...Oh well, back to the party, I guess.

That Nepgear was clearly yet another soul wrought with self-pity and despair... Where else to go from here other than one more sad individual?

10. THE LEGEND OF CAVE

"Cavey, can I rest on your shoulder? I'm *yawn* tired..." Chika cooed, not waiting for a response and immediately planting her head on her friend's shoulder.

Cave simply sighed. "Did you eat too much again? You should show more restraint."

"Nope, just tired~" She nuzzled her head like a child. "Yer comfy, Cavey~"

"I am not a pillow meant to bolster you." Still, she allowed her friend to act like an idiot some more; it was a weird friendship.

...

The oracle quickly began to snore, however, which was clearly the warrior's limit. Anger veins threatening to appear, she gently rose from her seat and made sure Chika didn't fall. Then, with a sigh, she looked up at the ceiling. "Stay safe tomorrow, Chika."

For the record, Cave wasn't afraid of facing danger in the coming battle; far from it. Hell, she would never gloat, but if push came to shove, she could take on the rebels single-handedly. So, no, she was confident she'd fair just fine...

Despite this, though, Cave couldn't help but worry about everyone else, especially her dear friends. Chika, along with the other oracles, would be out on the potential battlefield. Just thinking of what could go wrong made the hardened warrior shiver.

But more than the oracles... she worried about the majestic blue-haired girl who still encapsulated her heart.

"I must protect her, no matter what." That phrase constantly rang in her head. Even if the very world came crumbling down, she'd sacrifice everything to keep Lyrica safe.

...

Without realizing it, the stern woman had begun staring longingly at the pop idol, eventually grabbing her attention. "Oh, hi Cave! Having fun?"

The SMD warrior was caught off-guard. "H-Hello, Lyrica... I've been dealing with more of Chika's antics; business as usual."

"Hehe, I see."

An awkward silence followed, if you hadn't seen that coming. However, it didn't last long...

"...L-Lyree!"

"Hm?"

"I... I wish to speak with you about... something important." The stylish woman began to lightly blush, an intense feeling overtaking her actions.

5pb. smiled. "Of course, anything. What's on your mind?"

Cave took a deep breath... and prepared to speak. So long had she held these feelings for her innocent friend, and right now, something told her that now would be the best time to just let them all free. "Lyrica... I... I..." Tongue-tied; most unusual.

"Hey Cave. Whatcha guys talkin' about?" Ah, yep, here comes IF again. Fate is particularly cruel, don't you agree?

The warrior's courage immediately leapt out the window; foiled again. Maybe her love for the pop idol was just never meant to be...

"I... I wanted to wish you well tomorrow... B-Both of you!" She averted her gaze to hide her disappointment in herself. "I vow with my life to keep you safe from harm."

Lyrica was confused for a second, but quickly went back to smiling. "Thank you, Cave. You're a true friend."

The stylish warrior bowed professionally, and quickly dashed off. Now, no one noticed (how could they?), but poor little Cave looked just like a disappointed child for but a moment... In a flash, she was back to her stern and stoic self.

Cave was clearly not destined to find love and happiness, was she? So, what else could she do but devote her very life to protecting the girl she could never have?

...

Some legends just aren't worth telling... Is hers?

"I am Cave, warrior of the Leanbox Special Mission Department. I entrust my life, my very being, to you. I will guard you through the battle that lies ahead."

"U-Um, n-no need to go that far, Cave! IF was just talking about getting some ice cream... Wanna come?"

"...Sure."


11. THE LEGENDS OF IF AND LYRICA

"Well... Cave's certainly acting odd. You don't think she's actually nervous, do ya?" The battle-hardened veteran asked with a slight chuckle.

Lyrica shook her head. "Cave, nervous? That's funny."

"Heh, sure is... Though, it wouldn't be misplaced; a whole rebellion, with a leader who can apparently transform? Could be dangerous..." IF shot her lover a certain look.

"...Oh no Iffy, don't tell me you're gonna try to talk me into staying behind?! We don't need that cliché; I'm fighting with everybody else!"

"Take it easy, take it easy, I wasn't gonna say that at all." A soft hug. "We work better as a team, don't we? I can't keep you out of the action."

"That's good." 5pb. smiled, and she pulled the brunette in for a kiss.

"Woah, family show! Save it for the hotel scene, you!" That voice... Neptune! "...Nah, just kiddin'; this story is still M-rated I think, so it's cool."

IF sighed. "Hey Nep. Still crazy as usual I see... What're you up to?"

The ditz rocked back and forth; if I didn't know that was her thing, I would swear that was a nervous tic or something. "Oh, just waitin' on Noiwey and stuffs, thought I'd swing by... So, you pumped for tomorrow or what!? I'm ready to kick ass and eat pudding, and something-something all out of pudding!"

"Boy, Nep, that reference must've taken forever to come up with..." Oh, you think you're so clever, don't you? "But yeah, we'll save Compa and get an S rank while we're at it!"

"Heck yeah! That's mah Iffy!" Neptune rejoiced, as evidenced by her springing up and down. She stopped after a few iterations to spread some news, however. "Oh, did you know: I just got my own personal bodyguards! Heck, same for Noiwey too! Look, one's over there!"

IF and Lyrica exchanged a quick glance. "Bodyguards?" Indeed, a few feet away stood a well-built man in martial arts attire. He noticed the two girls' gaze, and struck a dramatic pose.

"Game, Shiro!" Oh boy.

The ditz was positively ecstatic. "Isn't he coolio? I don't really know why we need bodyguards for this battle, but I want him to tag along just so I can see some of his special moves!"

The pop idol sweat-dropped. "I-I admit, I'm kind of curious too."

Noire returned to the room just then, and Neptune wasted no time. "Ah, there mah babe is! See ya, dudettes!"

"See ya, Nep!" IF waved, then smirked as she shook her head. "Always a screwball, even now."

"Teehee... You two are such cute friends~"

"W-What? C-Cute? Nononononono! We are not cute!" IF, your 'tsundere' is showing.

5pb. hugged her girlfriend close. "You are very cute, Iffy... Don't leave me out, though; I wanna help you get Compa back too! In no time, you three will be back to causing trouble!"

"Trouble? Heh, fine... Everything Nep's involved with leads to trouble. Guess it's my duty to keep her in check." The two laughed, happy in every sense of the word. By this time tomorrow, Compa would be safe and sound, and peace would be restored.

Neptune, IF, and Compa: three souls bound together by a bond thicker than blood.

IF and Lyrica: two lovers who've already went through hell and back... and have yet another major trial looming on the horizon.

Were these bonds everlasting? Could the battle-hardened veteran keep everyone she held dear safe?

In a day's time... the question would finally be closer to an answer...

...

A few kisses later, a sudden thought sprang to IF's mind; have I said this already? Like, a lot?

"Y'know, Lady Vert's been awfully quiet tonight. Let's check up on her."

"Yeah, make sure she's okay."

And that, they did...

...Hey, wait...!?

"So, after the battle, I was thinking of holding a Classic Rock concert... What do you think?"

"Classic Rock? Hm, sure, I guess... Do you even play Classic Rock, though?"

"Why not? It's not like the visual novel scenes ever show me playing music anyways."

"Heh, true..."


12. THE LEGEND OF VERT

Lady Green Heart, having just watched most of those scenes, let out a sigh. "My, everyone is so full of life... Why can't I join them?"

IF, still sitting across from her, smiled knowingly. "Because you're troubled, Lady Vert. There's something that's eating you up inside, and you don't know what to do. You want so much to have fun... but you're holding yourself back! Those headaches you've been having will only get worse if you don't face your troubles head-on! So please, my lady; please talk to me!"

Vert looked at the brunette's beautiful face, and knew that now was the time. "Okay, Miss IF... But you must promise that, no matter what, this will not affect our friendship!"

"Heh, no worries! Anything you say right now can't possibly have that type of effect!"

"Alright then... I-IF, I am madly in love with you... I know we've had this conversation in the past, but..." the CPU ashamedly cast her eyes down, "I simply can not move on. My feelings for you only grow stronger with each passing day, and it's driving me mad! I... I'm so lost right now, and there's no one I can really talk to. Chika wouldn't understand, and I certainly can't mention it to Cave or Lyrica... T-Though, now that you know all this, I guess there'd be no point in telling any of them..."

The battle-hardened veteran nodded for a bit, apparently in deep thought. The longer she took, the more worried the goddess became. Fortunately, a reply soon came. "Lady Vert, do you feel better now? At all?"

"H-Huh? U-Um... well, actually, yes... I-I feel a bit more relieved. I've bottled that up for so long..."

IF grinned, and stood from her seat. "That's progress, Vert! I'm proud of you."

The CPU felt a very peculiar sensation in the pit of her stomach, which she tried to tune out. "T-Thank you, Miss IF... Er, I-I don't mean to be brash or anything, but... how do you feel about my confession?"

The battle-hardened veteran shook her head. "It doesn't matter how I feel; what matters is how YOU feel."

That peculiar response caused Vert to think... and she finally made note of the glaring anachronism. "...Miss IF, while we were watching everybody... I saw you and Lyrica together."

"Yeah, and?"

"...You were sitting right here with me, weren't you?"

Another head-shake. "You're focusing too much on the useless little details, Vert; you should instead be looking at the big picture! Nitpicking will only lead you to more despair."

"I... guess." Yeah, I'm just as confused as she is... However, that didn't keep her down! Her confession to the girl she loved made the elegant goddess feel better than she had in the longest time. No more sulking around; it was time to take action. "...IF, thank you for everything. I'm... ready to join the party now! I'm ready to have the time of my life!" She rose from her seat and called out to her 'sister.' "Chika, I'm feeling better now! Chika!... Chika?" No response... from anybody.

The battle-hardened veteran smiled rather uncharacteristically. "...I'm sorry, Vert."

"Sorry? About...?" And before her very eyes, a few more fragmented scenes played out.

"Lady Vert... Are you alright? Lady Vert?... *sigh* No good, she's sleepin'. Guess we better let her rest." IF said, sounding slightly disappointed.

Lyrica wrapped her arm around her lover. "She'll need her strength for tomorrow... It's kinda sad that she's sleeping through the party, though. When's the next time everyone'll be together like this?"

"Well, I'm sure we'll have an after-battle party... I can almost guarantee it, in fact!"

"Oh yeah, I forgot about that! Ooh, that sounds like fun!" And the two walked off...

Iffy stared deeply into the CPU's eyes, almost as if she was judging her soul. "You've been here a long time, Vert; All night, your headaches have left you dazed and confused. The party ended hours ago... "

"Vert fell asleep?" Chika asked, surprised. The party had cleared out by now. "That's kinda depressing... Ah, I took a nap too, so I can't really fault her!"

Cave shook her head. "So, what should we do? Just leave her out here? I'm going to bed soon, so we better make a choice quick."

The oracle proudly pat her chest. "I shall wait for her down here! When she awakes, I will carry her up to our room!"

"Okay... I wish you luck."

"I was never sitting with you... You admitted your feelings to yourself, not me. Progress for YOU... but it accomplished nothing in the terms of actually sorting out your problems."

Chika had waited in the empty S.R.A.T.S. party room for hours before Vert finally stirred awake. Just in time, too, for a very hungover Chip took that moment to announce: "Okay... I'm shuttin' off the lights for the night! Anyone stuck down here in the dark, you brought this on yourself... Ow, oww..."

The lights were indeed violently shut off, leaving the oracle and the goddess in the complete blackness. She pulled on Vert's sleeve, but the elegant woman refused to move.

Although Chika would walk Gamindustri ten times over for the CPU, she was getting very tired and impatient. She needed her beauty sleep, and this was only slowing her down.

"Verty, you're just gonna sit there?"

Lady Green Heart, completely exhausted, looked up at her 'sister.' "Hm? Why, yes, I am perfectly content right here... I am much too worn out to take part in the festivities; do forgive me, dearest Chika." She smiled as brightly as she could muster, waving her hand up and down dismissively.

The oracle's eyebrow raised quite profoundly, but she simply nodded. "...Okay then..." With that, she left the room.

Chika went up to her room alone, the familiar feeling of dread and worry returning.

Vert's eyes were wide, and she stared at IF pleadingly. "I-Iffy... What's happening?"

"..."

"Promise me... Promise you'll stay with me, IF!"

"Sorry Vert, but..." One last smile, "I've never been with you." In the blink of an eye, the 'battle-hardened veteran' was gone.

...

Lady Green Heart was alone, finally ready for a party that she had both sulked and slept through.

With nothing left in her, Vert dropped her head to the table and began to cry.


THE WANDERING WOLF

'Twas the morning of the confrontation... The fateful day had finally arrived!

Everyone once more gathered in the S.R.A.T.S. party room, though this time to gear up for the likely battle that awaited them.

With everyone ready to go, Chip (in his brilliantly-red shirt) took center stage one final time. "Alright ladies... and, er, a few men... let's not waste anymore time and get out there! The vessels are waiting out back; us fighters will board the Zenobia, whilst the candidates will head to Lowee in the Arcadia! Understood?" Everyone replied in the positive, though Uni and Ram grumbled.

"Let's kick some ass!" Blanc cheered, secretly glancing around for Kei. As if on cue, the professional oracle came sprinting into the room... looking surprisingly... surprised.

"U-Urgent news: Jade claimed something had come up on his end, so he returned to Avenir last night..." Don't misinterpret that.

Chika rolled her eyes. "What a wimp... So, what? One less soldier on our side?"

Kei shook her head. "Not exactly... No, instead, he will take a separate ship and meet the Candidates in Lowee. However, that's not the urgent part: he has apparently sent a surprise guest who wishes to aid us. He's... right by the ships."

Noire cocked her head to the side. "Surprise guest? That doesn't sound too good..."

The large group took one final tally, then proceeded to leave the S.R.A.T.S. headquarters. Upon stepping outside, a most unexpected sight greeted them.

The boyish oracle stood tall. "The odds are certainly in our favor now..."

The ditz's mouth went agape. "Holy capoley! Is he on our side? Ooh, can I ride him!?" Er, don't misinterpret that.

The tsundere held her hand to her hip. "This is... unexpected indeed." Damn it, who is it?

The foul-mouthed goddess grit her teeth. "What the hell does this mean?" I can't see who it is!

The elegant CPU rubbed her forehead. "Oh my... He's alive?"

The pop idol stared wide-eyed. "C-Can we trust him?"

The battle-hardened veteran flipped open her phone. "About time you showed up again."

The SMD warrior raised an eyebrow. "..."

The S.R.A.T.S. commander folded his arms. "Meh, I could take him."

The tome fairy brought her hand to her chin. "Most interesting... I certainly never foresaw this."

The sassy oracle wore an intimidated smirk. "K-Keep away from my darling Vert, beast!"

The scholarly mother figure wiped her glasses. "Children, back away..."

The timid child hid her face with her hands. "Scary... Does this mean... that monster's still alive?"

The energetic loli placed herself in front of her sister. "D-Don't worry, Rom! This one isn't as creepy as that smelly pedo... right?"

The purple-haired candidate covered her mouth in awe. "G-Goodness... I never realized how much I could learn from taking him apart..."

But, perhaps it was the young tsundere who was the most surprised of all. She took a step forward.

"Brave... is that really you?"

!?

The surprise guest, CFW Brave, made a motion that might have resembled a nod. "Greetings Uni... fair heroines... I can hide in the shadows no longer. I wish to aid you in your struggle." Black Sister was about to ask an obvious question, but she was swiftly silenced. "There will be a time and place for questions later... Goddesses, prepare to show the world your resolve, or you shall face defeat in this coming battle. Are you ready?"

The four CPUs looked each other in the eye and nodded, strong and resolute. The time was now!

"Now... we move!"


Well, everything seems to be wrapping up... nicely, don't you think? However... there's still one thing left to do; surely you've figured it out?

...

We still have some unfinished business with the group of girls that started this whole 'expansion pack(?)' off in the first place...