Successors to the Goddess

by songoku2006

Gamindustri, a land where goddess rein. After many battles, it is at peace. But this is nothing more than an illusion. One that is tied to an ancient prophecy. For the land of Gamindustri is in peril. Do to actions of one these goddess. It will be up to remaining goddess to save there lands. For they might be the true successors to the original goddess.

17. Chapter 17

Disclaimer I don't own Hyperdimension Neptuna or any other references made.

Chapter Seventeen: A Past Foe's Return

Drillix sat in a hummer going back to his land. While he could get there faster by flying, given his current condition. It would be taxing. His injuries do heal faster when using his power to heal them, it still needed time. Which is why he is hitching a ride with the remaining demons that hid during his surprise attack.

A Revenant drove toward their stronghold not paying any attention to its master. For it knows how frustrating it's for those goddesses to keep this up. But they weren't going to back down from the goddesses.

Drillix was suddenly snapped out of his thoughts. The reason for it because the vehicle slammed on the brakes, he might snap as to why his driver stopped, he spotted two other vehicles also stopping.

The Revenant hissed while looking to the right, it sensed something in that direction.

Drillix tensed, his senses are low since he's focusing on healing. Could it be a goddess coming after him in his condition? No. They were hurt badly as himself, so what made his demons stop?

He sensed it: a single goddess. One that seemed to be going toward Lowee. Not too fast and barely could be sensed as if she wanted to hide. She's being sloppy at keeping it hidden though as if she hasn't trained it or …

Drillix finally figured out who this was, a dark chuckle came from his mouth at 'this person.' "I'll be, no wonder you are so worked up my minions."

The Revenant nodded while growling. It may not be able to sense as good as its master, it never-the-less could tell who this is. The one that they thought had perished. Oh, wouldn't it love to tear her apart while keeping her alive as long as possible. Make her suffer as never before.

Drillix could feel all the near-by demons' bloodlust boil. Ready to be unleashed on this goddess. To tear her limb by limb: slowly.

"No," Drillix ordered to his demons.

The Revenant's head snapped to stare at his master. It had asked, why? They should tear her apart, given she seems right where they can catch and kill her. She may even be a threat as she seems stronger now. From what the Revenant sensed.

Drillix couldn't blame his demons for asking why not kill her. "The answer is simple, she's not really a threat or worth killing."

The Revenant glared at his master, trying to figure why not. She's clearly going to Lowee, which could mean she's … trying to get help. The Revenant remembered how the other goddesses reacted to her. They would likely bash her head in or lock her up.

"As to her 'so-called' increase in power." Drillix chuckled. "I'm much more skilled at knowing how strong she is, and it's nothing compared to the other goddesses. If anything, it's where she should have been at the start of her foundation."

The Revenant now remembered what she used for power; it couldn't compare to what the other goddesses used. If so …

The demons still wanted to hunt her down and kill this goddess, but their master ordered them to leave. They had no choice but to obey.

Drillix knows that leaving a goddess – even this pathetic excuse – is a gamble. He knows that she'll not succeed in getting what she wants. All she's doing is going to her downfall, he does know how she still has power. Planeteptune told him about a so-called project she worked on before his release.

She thinks it's something new, but in reality. It's nothing new, only she now touched it. He did wonder what kind of face she'll make when her so-called trump card turns out to be junk.

Noire sat down in her hummer being treated by a medic, on their way to Lowee. After a few more bandages, he finished his work and relaxed to the side.

She relaxed with a sigh at being done with it, this was starting to become a daily thing for her. Her wounds will take time to heal, she never-the-less is still on edge. The rush of battle still in her veins or leery of being attacked again. But given how hurt he seemed, it's safe to assume Drillix won't be attacking soon.

Noire did spot Dante trying to not to look at her, how cute of him worry about her. "I'm going to okay." She gave the young man a dazing smile.

Dante tried not to react to such a thing, or did it seem she's just toying with him?

"You did have a rough battle, Lady Black Heart," Dante replied formally, as not to seem it was more than necessary for a soldier's concern.

Noire nodded. "So true, I did have a rough time. I'm sorry to worry everyone." Noire closed her eyes while resting in her seat.

Dante raised a brow, why did she apologize? It did sound sincere and everything, so why is it weird?

"Why don't we just try to relax a little?" Noire said softly. Her voice was as gentle a breeze.

Dante slumped in his firm seat, that was a tall order in various ways. Being by your love interest, even a hint of what seemed to be sweet smell. One that possibly came from her, made it hard for the young man.

Noire gave a small smile while opening her eyes, knowing her words influenced Dante, and maybe the others. She hoped to ease the tension in the vehicle a little. The only thing that would really ease it is getting to Lowee.

Noire stiffened with her head snapping to look out the window.

"Lady Black Heart?" Dante tensed at seeing her reaction.

Noire glared while scanning outside. Her fist clenching. "Is that you, Betrayer?" She whispered in rage.

Dante's face hardened at hearing that. He knows who she's talking about. "Should we stop?"

Everyone tensed, they noticed reply and seeing Noire's look.

Noire should check if that is Neptune out there, but whatever she felt is gone. Plus, she needs a little time to rest. "No, we need to get to Lowee. I'm not risking anything right now. I'm in no shape to fight or need to go picking a fight. So just get us there."

Her order was cold as ice, showing her desire to see if that's Neptune. But she's not ready to fight, not yet anyway. But if Neptune shows her face anytime soon, she'll bash it in with her fist.

Noire decided to call the others. They might have sensed what she sensed. She knows that Rom, Uni, and Ram might find Neptune and take her down. She can't risk them getting hurt with Drillix possibly lurking around.

Drillix can hide his presence and would love to kill any goddesses or his demons might attack. She can't take such a gamble with her sister or friends.

In the hummer that Blanc rode in, her hands griping the radio, threatening to break it. Even if she's weak, her strength is strong enough to break it if needed. She's also sporting various bandages on her body.

"Why do I get the feeling that bitch is coming for us." Blanc's anger could be heard, clearly knowing who Noire is talking about.

"You said it yourself, White Heart," Vert's voice replied, clearly in the current conversation. Even her voice had hints of rage. "She has a misguided sense of revenge or she wants share from us."

Blanc growled. "Oh, she wants us to help her. Sure, I'll help her. By implanting my fist to her face! Complete with kicking her ass to Lowee's mountain range, and then …" Her voice got very dark.

"As much I want to go after her," Noire's voice replied. "We can't take any unnecessary risks right now."

Blanc's eyes glowed red, a hint of her rage to be unleashed. "I know, Black Heart. I know what you're talking about. We can't say it's safe for any of us to go bitch hunting."

"Speak for yourself!" Ram's voice came from the radio. She along with Uni and Rom rode in a different hummer. "Let me, Rom and Uni go hunting. We'll get the job done or drag her sorry ass to Lowee."

Blanc could hear the other candidates agree with Ram. While she knows they could take on Neptune, she didn't like what's happening. Neptune seems to be moving fast, too fast for her liking. Complete as to why they sensed her power.

While you could sense a goddess, her presence was stronger than what you expect for a goddess to be without share. That didn't sit well with her, plus you might have Drillix sneaking around.

"I know how much you want a piece of her," Blanc said while trying to keep calm. "We can't risk you finding Drillix or his demons. While the bastard is weak from our fight. He might use his demons to hold you down and he'll deliver the finishing blow."

Ram's grumbling came from the radio, clearing knowing her older sister had a point.

"So," Vert's voice said. "What do we do? We can't just leave her be. If Neptune is buzzing around, what does it entail for us?"

Blanc clicked her tongue. "From what I can think of. The little bitch came out of hiding and is clearly following us. She's going to make a move, maybe even try to use us as share energy makers again."

"Is she insane?" Vert's voice replied. "While her thinking might be ridiculous – putting it mildly – she should know that we wouldn't help her. After all the resistance we showed with our escape."

Blanc nodded. "I know, but she might be going bat-shit nuts. She clearly knows how we would react, or …"

"You think she has some sort of trick up her sleeve," Noire voiced out.

Blanc rubbed her tried head. "Correct, it pains to say that. But it makes sense to a degree. She has something helping her. I can't be sure, but it's helping her now. It might be the reason why she was able to sneak around so much. That's what gets me."

With those points and with them being tried from such a big fight. The goddesses couldn't really go after the one responsible for this mess. But that didn't mean they would not expect anything from Neptune, as Blanc said. She came out of hiding and is following them, so, it's reasonable enough to say, they'll be seeing her soon: real soon.

Lucky for them, the trip to Lowee wasn't that long. About an hour and such, they arrived on the outskirts of Lowee.

Standing by the meeting place that Blanc wanted everyone to gather at, Nepgear stood there wearing warmer clothing. She's been waiting for the other goddesses; she could feel the fight that took place when getting here.

"I hope things went okay." Nepgear shivered in concern and the cold, plus she could feel a certain thing watching her: Lowee.

She's getting better at sensing things, but she also noticed a familiar feeling. One that she didn't know what to think of. If she had to guess … Neptune. Her older sister might be alive. While she should be happy, a part of her is dreading seeing Neptune again.

What would she think of her joining the other goddesses? Would she sneer at her or thanking her for trying to stop Drillix? Her nerves tingled at the thought of what would happen. Her ears heard various vehicles coming, all the hummers carrying the goddesses.

She took a deep breath; she must know if they felt Neptune as she did.

The hummers parked by the building and everyone got out. Nepgear's eyes went to Vert, who seemed hurt. She has various bandages on her arms, face, plus, a giant one on her head. She gulped in dread, just how tough was that fight?

"She'll be fine," Leanbox's voice stated, clearly its own worry there.

Nepgear gulped and walked toward Vert.

Vert sighed, taxed in various ways. She has healed a bit, focusing more share to heal her wounds. While it won't instantly heal her wounds, it helps the process. Her friends are most likely doing the same thing. If they really need more healing, they might have Rom help heal them with her magic.

Vert spotted Nepgear coming at them. "I see you got here safety, Nepgear."

Nepgear stopped close and nodded. "Yes, but your badly hurt, Green Heart. Aren't you going to see a doctor?"

Vert shook her head. "White Heart made sure there are medical supplies and such in case anything went wrong there and here. So, they'll do for now, excuse me." She walked past Nepgear to the building.

Nepgear reached out to talk to her more but didn't. She did see Noire and Blanc moving with haste to the building. The purple-haired teen titled her head, they seemed to be in a rush. She gasped in realization: They must know about Neptune.

Even the soldiers seemed to be in a rush, they're following the goddesses and keeping an eye out. Cleary they are making sure they are safe.

"She's coming here." Nepgear hugged herself at thought of seeing her sister again. What is she up to? Doesn't she know that the other goddesses won't be so kind to her.

Nepgear jumped at seeing the other candidates appear before her. Each one watching her intensely.

Uni nodded. "Correct Purple Sister. Your 'dear sister' is coming our way. I wouldn't be surprised if she tries to pull something when getting here." Her tone ice cold.

Nepgear opened and closed her mouth, trying to think about what to say.

Ram narrowed her eyes. "The question is, are going to help her or us? That's what going on in my mind, buster?"

Nepgear gulped taking a step back, clearly getting scared by Ram. "I …"

"Let us focus on the current threat: The Betrayer," Rom's calm voice stated. "Purple Sister right now isn't the problem, so, we need to focus on our 'uninvited guest' that's coming."

Nepgear tried not to rebuke that reply. That would have defended her sister, but she knows how touché the situation is. Then there is her sister to think about. If Neptune is coming here, she must be up to something. Why would she come here?

Nepgear watched as the others go into the building gulping in dread. Nepgear slo-wly followed them, her nerves on edge. How should she react to seeing her older sister again? Neptune might be happy to see her again or …

Inside the building where various tables and doctors stood by. Vert waited for the doctor to finish checking her head, she's sitting by a portable x-ray. Her eyes did spot Noire and Blanc being checked over similarly as her. While it seems that the doctors would like them at the hospital to be looked over there.

This was the next best choice, they needed to be ready in case Neptune pulls anything. Sure, they could still do that at a hospital, but it's too risky as she would go busting in there. Possibly harming patents or the staff.

Vert spotted the candidates walking in, Nepgear slowly following them. Clearly the former Planeteptune goddess is troubled at knowing her older sister coming here.

Even the older goddesses are troubled at knowing that menace is coming. The only question is, what's her game?

Neptune should be without power, so why is it, she seems strong enough to fly here?

Vert heard the doctor clear his throat to get her attention, she nodded to listen to what he has to say.

Noire stood up as she's done being looked over. Thankfully using share to help heal worked. She's in better shape to fight again, only, she wished it was longer. But she has no time for that.

Neptune is coming, and she'll be damned to be caught off guard. Her instincts screamed that idiot is coming for her. Past evidence would say she's not that far off. Neptune always made her the butt of her jokes.

She watched as Blanc frowned with being done tended to. Clearly ready for whatever happens. Still, Blanc might have much of a bone to pick with Neptune. Neptune also seemed to pick on her.

Vert was less on the receiving end of that, but by no means left out of being picked on. Maybe Neptune didn't bother with her as much because she joined later, or she didn't care too much about her. For it seemed she loved picking on Noire first.

Flashing power icons appeared in Noire's eyes, a growl coming from her lips. "I'm ready for whatever you bring, bitch."

Nepgear had followed the other candidates, and they moved to their older sisters. While she went to a wall to stand-by to quietly watch them. They're clearly concerned about how badly the older goddesses are hurt. Nepgear eyed Vert, seeing her injuries again with a shudder.

While she did care about the blond goddess, she seemed to get oddly … comfort-table being with her. She did love her older sister, but now. She's confused. Vert is by no means harsh with her but not letting her slide with things. In an ironic twist this follows that last adventure Neptune had before this mess.

The one where she worked with those past versions of the current goddesses – ones that were copies – while it seemed nothing more than a show. It was if Neptune tried to prove she's best wherever she goes.

In that one, Nepgear played the part of being mad at Neptune when getting there. Nepgear lowered her head at the memory. While it seemed, she was acting to be bad … truly: she's mad at Neptune.

She's hidden it for so long or too scared to speak her mind. Her anger and disappointment bubbled to the surface during that time. Neptune didn't seem to care if she's hurting or is it…

Nepgear's head moved to the right, unconsciously looking at Dante. After a second, Nepgear snapped out of her thoughts. She spotted the young man looking at her with a cold expression. He even tensed at being looked at by her.

She gulped nervously looking away while scratching her cheek. The corner of her eye did spot Noire seemly staring at her. Making her more nervous. What's got them so riddled up?

She didn't mean to stare at him, but something did draw her attention to him. While Nepgear didn't care about getting a boyfriend or such right now, she wasn't any stranger on certain topics shared between sexes.

This didn't draw her to Dante, it was if something felt 'familiar' to her. As if she's seen him before or knows him. But to her memory, she's never seen this person.

Noire may not be the possessive type, but Nepgear is starting to get on nerves by staring at Dante. It might have been a second or two, she did seem curious about him. Wait, the reason why came to the Lastation goddess. It was so simple when you think about it.

Everyone stiffened at hearing various curses, ones in a language they could understand and not. All coming from Blanc sitting at her own spot.

They thought it was because of her being doctored, but by looking at her. Not a doctor was close to her. Only her younger sisters, who seemed equally mad at something.

"Lady White Heart?" Dante slowly asked, tensing as to why this goddess seems enraged. While she does a temper, this didn't seem normal for her.

"The bitch is here!" Blanc exclaimed standing up, her hammer appearing in her left hand. "She's here in my land with that disturbing stench, is she trying to pollute my beloved Lowee with that stink?!" Her Next eyes appeared flashing in her blue eyes.

The other goddesses then felt it too, a presence that came from a goddess. But like what Iris Heart had on her all those months ago.

Nepgear sweated nervously at knowing who this was. "Onee-chan is here. She really came here." Her voice squawking at knowing it's her.

Blanc growled. "This time, you're not going to win. I'll show you how it's supposed to be when you invade a land, Betrayer." She rushed to the doors with her younger sisters in tow, who had their weapons ready for use.

Clearly, they wanted a piece of their uninvited guest.

In the street by the building where the goddesses stayed at, a single manhole cover moved. Slowly it moved to the side, giggling coming from the person who removed the manhole cover from under it.

"I'm so clever," the person said. She made it here with no problems and sneaked into the sewers.

While it sank as the dickens, it helped her to get where she could feel where those losers are. Now all she had to do was burst in like a hero and beat their asses. It's a fool-proof plan if she said so herself.

"Hello, bitch," a mad familiar voice said. "Did you have a nice trek in Lowee's sewers? You should have stayed there, for that's where shit like you deserves to be, Betrayer."

Damn.

Nepgear along with Noire, Vert, Dante, Uni and various other soldiers stood behind White Heart and her transformed sisters. They tensed at seeing – Neptune.

For Nepgear, she couldn't believe her eyes that Neptune was standing before them. She got out of the sewers and is clearly looking at them in shock. By the looks of things, she didn't look so great.

Neptune's clothes looked caked with grim, not telling if that's from her trek in sewers or before getting there. Various little tears in her dress that seem sloppy patched together with duct tape. Even with those patches, hints of her pudding and heart panties could be seen. Even her hair looked greasy, as if she didn't bathe for days.

But that wasn't the reason why she smells so bad to the goddesses.

Neptune clicked her tongue at being found out so soon. But this could work.

White Heart frowned when Neptune smiled at her, she even started waving her hand. As if she's happy to see her.

"Long time so see, Blanc! I'm so happy to see you." Neptune glowed as possible from the grim of not taking a shower. She was out in sticks with no access to a shower. Not her fault.

"Happy." White Heart slowly stepped down the stairs, her anger quietly raising with each step. "I wouldn't say that to one who's about to kick your ass. You should've stayed in your hole. Coming to my land, do you have a death wish." Her ax in hand, clearly thinking of using it on Neptune's head.

The White sisters seemed ready to unleash a few spells too. For they are pointing their wands at Neptune while floating above the stairs.

Noire flatly looked at her nemeses. The one who caused so many problems, wait. Did she sneer at her for a second?

Neptune spotted Noire, but she's not the one to deal with right now. No, she needs Blanc right now, yes that's it. Get the smarty pants on her side and then.

White Heart stopped a few feet in front of Neptune, she narrowed her eyes at seeing something, for a second it seemed that Neptune was looking somewhere else. Then, the bitch looked at her with that fake, friendly smile.

"Come on, Blanc," Neptune pleaded at Blanc. "You can't mean that. I'm your friend, don't you remember?" Her eyes glistened with tears with clasped hands in front of her chest.

*Creak*

Neptune started sweating nervously from seeing White Heart's right foot break through the sidewalk's concrete, making an impression of her foot. She might back away now at seeing that show of strength.

"You're not my friend," White Heart replied, her face shadowed. But you could see the glowing power icons. Along with the leather creaking from her gripping the ax in her hands. "Truth be told, I don't know who I hate more: you or the Dark One.

"For both of you have pissed me off in various ways. The only difference between you two." Her head rose to directly glare at Neptune. "He's better at fighting me, while you're just a thorn in my ass!"

Neptune growled, but giggled to keep calm while waving it off. "Now, now, I know you're a little jealous at me and all. But, don't you think we need to help each other."

Noire watched as this so-called drama unfold, there it is again. Neptune glared at her again. So, you're still carrying a grudge. Bring it, I'll show how much I'm not a pushover.

"The only help you're going to get from me," White Heart stated, getting into a fighting stance. "Is a one-way ticket to Lowee's mountain range. Courtesy of me, Betrayer."

Neptune shivered and slowly replied, "That's not my name you stupid – Blanc." She needed to keep calm. Try to get on this brat's good side.

White Heart sneered. "Oh, did I hit a nerve … Betrayer?"

Neptune frowned while clenching her fists, trying to not snap at her. "You should know my name." Her voice straining to keep its rage in check.

Nepgear gulped in dread, clearly knowing what is going on. White Heart is basically humiliating her sister in the worst way possible: deny saying her name. If it's her human or goddess name. To deny that is very disrespecting to a goddess.

"Get used to it, Betrayer," White Heart stated. "That's your name for now on. Plus, stop with this pitiful act."

"A-act …" Did that brat see through her so easy?

"Clearly you're trying to get in my good graces." White Heart glared at her prey. "So, you'll get your hands on my share, then let me guess." She hummed. "Go after Noire or Drillix, clearly forgetting I have a beef with your ass."

Neptune lowered her head, shaking. Even muttering things under her breath.

Shaking in rage or fear, it didn't matter to White Heart. Either way, she's going to pound this disgrace.

Nepgear wanted to step in, she took one small step. But a hand stopped her: Vert's. Nepgear looked to see Vert shake her head.

"You won't help matters. I'm afraid your sister made her bed and now, she's pay-ing the price for it."

Nepgear slowly nodded her head. Vert is right, Neptune has done horrible things that have hurt people. Releasing Drillix is just the cherry on top.

Neptune's head snapped to glare at White Heart with rage. "You damn brat! You should be groveling before me. I was ruling a land before you came along and ruin things with that stupid, no good Noire! You should be calling me, Purple Heart-sama. Not this betrayer you keep calling me, brat."

White Heart smirked at her, finally showing everyone her true colors. "So, you've decided to show us your 'true colors.' I'm surprised it took you this long to show it."

Neptune started stomping, clearly getting more enraged by the brat's mocking. "What gives you the right? I've ruled Planeteptune much better than you." She stopped stomping and pointed at White Heart.

"That's bullshit," one male voice stated.

Neptune glared at one who spoke, a damn human. One that is wearing Lastation's colors. "I see that Noire's brainwashing hasn't stopped. Clearly using her 'wiles' to get people." She mocked while placing hands on her hips.

Dante coldly glared at his former goddess. While he should keep his head down, he couldn't. He at least owed it to his family to speak against this goddess. "If you are talking about how Lady Black Heart saved me, then, I'll take that over your ruling any day."

Neptune sneered at him while folding her arms over her chest. "Oh, I see. Clearly you don't know how great a goddess I am. You've been living in Lastation your whole life, clearly never seeing my gracious land."

"Does the name Melon district mean anything to you?" Dante replied tightly.

Nepgear gasped in horror while looking at Dante. She knows what he means. Melon is the first place where Iris Heart ran wild. Clearly, they didn't know that Iris Heart would cause so much damage, it was the one place that was hit the hardest. While she did do terrible things, Melon was the worst of the bunch.

"H-he's …" Nepgear tried to speak. She now knows why she felt drawn to him. It was because he lived in Planeteptune before, a citizen under their protection. She sensed that about him.

Goddesses can sense their people who've lived in their lands. Even past ones who lived there to an extent. To think she would find someone who lived in Planeteptune and survived Iris Heart's rampage, but she should have expected it.

There are survivors in every region, only, she didn't look for them.

The other soldiers had kept their mouths shut, but the few who knew Dante, ones from Lastation, let him speak his mind. He along, with others who can't be here, need to say their piece to Neptune.

Neptune narrowed her eyes. "So, your one of those people who didn't trust me."

Dante's frown deepened. "Trust? How could we trust you when you didn't help us or try to improve things? My parents never said that they had seen you in trying to help run your country, hell. You've let Iris Heart run wild."

Neptune scoffed. "Like all the others, so ungrateful of me."

Dante opened his mouth to reply but shut it and reached for his stowed rifle. "Will someone, give me the order to shoot the idiot. It's clear that's she not going to listen to reason."

Neptune growled, but smirked. "That's not going to happen. I'm so ready to whoop your butts."

White Heart tensed, knowing it was the thing that allowed her to use her goddess's powers, even when her sharicite is destroyed.

Noire watched as the fight is about to unfold, but there is it again. Neptune looked at her. Or it's clear who she really wants to fight. With a step, she started walking down the stairs to where the two stood.

Everyone else looked confused as to why Noire walked toward the two.

"What do you want, Black Heart?" White Heart asked without looking at her friend. Clearly sensing her friend's approach.

"To fight this betrayer." Noire stepped beside White Heart with a sword in hand, looking at her friend.

White Heart gave her a stern look. "Why should I give that honor to you? This thing has invaded my land, acting as if it's no big deal. She's answering to me, not you."

Noire closed her eyes and nodded. "True, this is your land to protect and care for." She opened her eyes. "But it's obvious who she wants to face." She nodded in the direction of Neptune.

White Heart could now see what Noire was getting at. Neptune stared at Noire as if she wanted her, like how a child is getting their favorite toy. While she should tell Black Heart to back off, she decided on a different course.

"While I should tell you to back off." White Heart lowered her ax and stepped back to give Noire room. "I'm going to let you kick her ass. So, I'll watch this for now."

Noire nodded her appreciation, and then turned her attention to Neptune, who is giggly at having this happening before her.

"Are you sure you want to be fighting me, Lonely Heart." She teased with a grin.

Noire calmly stepped to the side while tensing for a fight. "That name is best suited to you, Betrayer."

Neptune growled while watching her. "I have friends, what about you?!"

It would seem her taunt backfired.

Noire sadly shook her head. "Your friends may or may not be your true friends. Either way, they have left you behind and such. Even with evidence of the crimes you've done. You still think you aren't to blame for the mess you've made. While I would love for you to clean your mess." Noire's eyes gazed into Neptune's with steel.

"The truth is that your too 'incompetent' to clean it."

Neptune stomped her foot, clearly that reply got under her skin. Those words made her remember what that thing did to her. How it seemly didn't try to fight her. Then words of Planeteptune given to her during that defeat.

"You could have been a wonderful goddess," Planeteptune's words stated back then. "But you've been a lazy, miserable excuse of one! I wish that Black Heart, Green Heart, White Heart or even one of the candidates were the ones who cared for me. Not you. I hope you die, Purple Heart!"

Neptune glared at Noire with madness swirling in her eyes, she'll show them. Starting with this goddess, that'll show them she's the hero.

Nepgear gulped at seeing the madness in her sister's eyes. "Onee-chan." Or was it there the whole time? Or did it get implanted during the war against Lastation? She couldn't come up with the answer to it.

Vert frowned at seeing the event unfold, clearly seeing that Neptune was more depraved then thought, or she couldn't see it earlier while being numbed. She does know that Black Heart is strong enough to stop her. She never-the-less is ready to step in to help in case something goes awry. She spotted White Heart also ready with others.

While they were going to let this fight take place, they weren't going to let Black Heart get hurt or killed.

Noire waited for the enemy before her. While she could beat her easily, she was cautious about one thing: How come she's strong. Not strong as you would think a goddess without share would be.

"Are you going to fight or stare at me with crazy eyes, Betrayer?" Noire asked calmly while getting into a fighting stance, still waiting for what Neptune would do.

Neptune clicked her tongue at the cursed name but smirked while reaching into her pocket.

Noire narrowed her eyes. So, she did have something stored.

It was a small sharicite crystal, one that's glowing orange.

Nepgear gasped with a hand over her mouth. "Is that what she was making back then."

Vert and other goddesses heard this but kept quiet. They could feel that share's power, it's enough to keep Neptune power long enough if she rationed it, and it seems she did.

"Oh." Neptune could see the disbelief on that dummy's face. "You didn't think I could make 'hyper share energy', Lonely Heart."

Noire didn't react to her boast but did ask. "That so-called share is what you made in Planeteptune with all the stuff we made?"

Neptune smugly nodded. "Yup, I'm so smart to make this marvel. With this, that bad guy will be done in by it, and with my help."

"Please tell me why a bunch of share will do that," Noire replied.

Neptune snickered and decided to show them. The hyper share was absorbed into Neptune's right hand. A bright light engulfed Neptune, replacing her with Purple Heart.

But not a normal Purple Heart. Her skinsuit still had the same colors, but showier to show more cleavage. Where her usual hairpins on her head should be, two spinning fins floated there. Her hair in the same two long ponytails. Her hands and feet had changed into mechanical limbs. Lastly, her eyes had plus symbols in them.

"She's gone next." Nepgear gasped with widened eyes. How could she do that? Histoire only said that Noire, Blanc and Vert are the only who could transcend the goddess form.

Noire frowned while griping her sword firmly. "So, you've dawned the Next form. All because of that stuff."

Next Purple's new wings appeared, fins that spin and her sword appeared in her right hand. "Yes, who says that 'only you' could acquire this power."

Noire's frown deepened at hearing that voice. It sounded more mature, but it still grated on her nerves. It sounds as if she's superior to her and everyone. Instead of talking, it's time for action.

A glow encased Noire and then Black Heart appeared with her sword at the ready.

Next Purple snickered. "You're going to face me as Black Heart."

On top of the stairs, Nepgear gulped in dread at this choice. She looked at the other goddesses, who didn't seem disturbed. They were tense but didn't move or anything. They should know what the next form can do. If Neptune has such power, she'll cream Black Heart with no effort.

Next Purple couldn't believe her luck. This might have been harder if Next Black was here to face her, but to have her like this. It would be a cakewalk. She had read up what the next form is and such, she knows that power is hers.

After testing the hyper share, her power increased far more than thought possible. Even her appearance had changed. While she knew how to make hyper share, she never tried it until her exile. And boy did it paid-off.

Black Heart braced when Next Purple charged at her. She grunted when their blades clashed.

Nepgear gasped at seeing the clash of swords, at first it was a simple blow and then. Next Purple twirled to knock Black Heart back. Her older sister is quick despite not fighting for a while.

Black Heart landed on a building that was behind her, her head lowering. Seemly the wind knocked out her.

Next Purple laughed; her power is too much for Black Heart to handle. "Now you see! I'm much stronger, as it should be." She even puffed out her chest at how easy this is.

"Is that all?" a simple question came from Black Heart. Her face shadowed.

Next Purple stopped puffing out her chest and looked stunned. "W-what are you talking about? I knocked you back." She started getting nervous at seeing Black Heart now looking at her.

Now getting a good look at her opponent. She didn't seem harmed or concerned. Only coldly staring at her.

"I've asked." She vanished, only to appear before Next Purple with an overhead slash that Next Purple barely blocked with her blade. "Is that all you got!"

Next Purple's knees shivered at the blow. Even the street shook from the blow. She shivered at the feeling, and a dark face flashed before her. The one who destroyed her land.

"No!" Next Purple shoved Black Heart away, taking to the air once she had enough room. Her fear bursting out. There is no way this was happening again to her.

"Too slow, Betrayer," a cold voice stated above her.

Next Purple's head snapped to see who it was, only for her face to be greeted by a savage kick.

Nepgear winched at seeing her sister's face kicked-in by Black Heart. Hell, she could barely see Black Heart move as if she's a flicker.

Next Purple could see stars among seeing Black Heart above her. Seemly staring her down with cold eyes.

"If you're having this much trouble following me," Black Heart said to her opponent. "Then you're not going to survive against Drillix, no matter what you boast about."

Next Purple shivered at hearing the words, even her memories of what happened with her fight against that thing came back. She's even forgotten how much of a brutal fighter Black Heart is.

She's gotten used to Black Heart being numbed or her fight someone else. That she's forgotten what Black Heart can do when pushed.

"That's enough of a breather, Betrayer," Black Heart's cold voice stated. Her eyes even took a cold glint to them.

Next Purple screamed in rage, fear while charging at Black Heart. She needed to hurt this bitch, anything to drive out those demons. Only for Black Heart to duck under her wild blow, but it didn't end there. She screamed in pain as a slash landed on her left side. She barely saw the dummy hit her.

Nepgear gulped at seeing Black Heart tear into her sister with fast strikes. While she wasn't fast as her next form, she never-the-less was a blur. It even looked if she's dancing around Next Purple.

"That's the terror of Black Heart, Purple Sister," Vert said to Nepgear, who looked at her with fearful eyes. "While she's not as strong as White Heart or middle range as me. She's the fastest of us and knows how to use it. People have even talked about naming her 'blur of the battlefield', for how fast she moves. Which is why you have to be ready for her to dance around you."

Nepgear nodded, understanding what Vert is saying. It seemed as if she's dancing around Next Purple.

Next Purple held her bleeding right shoulder. Winching in pain from all the cuts caused by that damn Noire. She tried again to slash at her, only for her to move away from the clumsy slash.

Black Heart let the wide slash move and then rushed toward her opponent. Not with her sword, but something that isn't soft either: her left fist. The haymaker landed on Next Purple's mouth, knocking back her head.

Next Purple floated back from the blow. Stars, once again, flashing before her eyes. Slowly, she moved her head back to normal, tasting blood and … something loose. Her tongue felt something move in her mouth, she spat, and a few bloody teeth fell to the ground. She watched as the teeth and blood landed on the ground, stupefied at being hurt so badly.

"What, never felt pain before," Black Heart stated, ready to attack again.

Next Purple roared while rushing at her target. Trying to use all the speed to get there. Only for wings to start fading out, even slowing her down. "No, no not now!"

While using the hyper share did help her, she should have known its limited use. She didn't know how much time she had and with her transforming. It must be used to fast. She's barely able to stay horizontally in the air.

"Going down." A smirking Black Heart appeared above Next Purple with a raised right elbow. She slammed her elbow onto Next Purple's back, making them fall to the ground as she pushed them to the ground. Next Purple's wings dissipated having Black Heart's elbow digging more into the back of the weakened goddess.

Next Purple screamed in terror as they fell to the ground, trashing her limbs in trying to stop this, but she couldn't stop. She crashed into the ground first, screaming as her eyes became bloodshot in pain with her head moving back in pain. Black Heart had used her as a cushion for the rough landing.

The concrete broke from the force of the blow. White Heart sighed with a glare.

"Please be a little careful," she spoke flatly. "Lowee doesn't like having trash slammed into him, especially when it sinks badly as that thing." She had her hands on her hips.

The twins also looked flatly at hearing Lowee's complaints of this happing to him.

Dante along with Uni had sweatdrop as hearing such a complaint. But given how animate Lowee seemed to be, it is expected for Lowee to say something about this. Even Vert looked nervous at thought of something like that happening to her Leanbox.

Nepgear rubbed her cheek, not sure how to take such a statement of her older sister. While it seems that Neptune hasn't bathed in days, did that mean she smells that badly?

Black Heart got off her cushion, an ironic turn of events. Giving Next Purple a taste of how it feels to be someone else cushion for once. "I wouldn't help myself, Lowee. It's so fun using her as a cushion." She could understand the land's feelings, so it doesn't hurt to apologize for it.

She moved to the front of the quivering goddess. Slowly Next Purple picked herself up, wobbling as she tried to stand. It felt as if her spine was trying to kiss the ground while still in her. She glared at Black Heart but noticed something different.

Things looked bigger, she gasped in horror for the reason for it.

"So." Black Heart smirked. "You've finally run out of share, I must ament. This form suits you better, Betrayer."

Neptune looked at her reflection in a nearly-by building's widow. At first shocked at the sight of her human form but noticed something is wrong with her mouth. She bared her teeth and screamed in horror. For parts of her front teeth are missing, giving her a plaid smile.

Which is a given how she did spit out various teeth earlier.

"Now that look ready suits you." Black Heart laughed at seeing how she looks like a child. She may need to put away her sword as might need to hold her sides.

Neptune glared at Black Heart. "How dare you ruin my beautiful smile!"

Black Heart kept laughing at how she's acting like a child. "Oh, come on. You always eat pudding as it goes out of style. Now, I've given you a 'real reason' to eat it."

White Heart giggled at the joke. She wasn't alone as her younger sisters giggled too. It even seemed Vert tried not to giggle at the turn of events. Dante smirked as Neptune had her share of pain, about time for it. She's long overdue.

Nepgear sweated nervously, clearly knowing that if her sister gets out of this mess. She's going need to see a dentist about fixing her smile.

Neptune stomped her foot, now throwing a tantrum. "How did this happen?! I became stronger. I was in the next form; how did this happen?" She demanded an answer.

"You'll get an answer," Black Heart's voice replied. "When you take a look at me now and you'll get it."

Neptune didn't know what that brat is talking about. True she's not looking at her, but what would … change. Once she looked at Black Heart, her jaw dropped.

"What." Black Heart posed with a wink without her sword. "Don't you like my new look?"

Neptune now thinks she's seeing things. Black Heart looked different. She's no longer wearing a black skinsuit as before, it's now gray. Resembling the fake one that she used in her last expedition, but her eyes were red without power icons. Along with her hair in pigtails as her human form.

It was if that past version came back to haunt her.

Nepgear gasped at seeing such a change. Except for the eyes, she looked like that fake Black Heart she made. "How?"

Black Heart stopped posing to glare at Neptune. "All you've done is cosplay, nothing more or nothing less. In other words: imitate the next form." She pointed at Neptune.

Neptune glared back at her. "Cosplay! The same damn thing you do?! How do you explain my power increase? When I transformed, tell me that?!"

"Easy enough, dumbass," White Heart said. "You've been using diluted share energy for long as you can remember. When you started using true share – for the first time – you were brought to what ought to be your full power when starting out."

Neptune couldn't believe what they're saying. They're saying that she's where she should be at the beginning. Her mind raced to when she tried using the hyper share. The way it was made, everything about it. After a few seconds, it came to her. They are right. All that work was for nothing but normal share.

"As for my new form." Black Heart glowed and was replaced by her normal form. "We goddesses can change it to a certain extent. As I did with my clothes, hair, and eyes can be altered. Only our power won't increase with it. It's just an upgrade to our looks. Nothing more."

That made sense to Neptune. She has seen pictures of the next form and thought of how cool it would be for her to have one. That is why she changed her looks, because she wanted that power. But she only got the look of one: her own take of it.

"Then what about your so-called next form!" Neptune screamed, her hands clenc-hing so hard to draw blood. "Is it only a new look?!"

She shivered as a power flooded before her. The pressure she felt as if it was going to crush her like a bug, like what she felt with that thing, only different. She slowly looked to see a glaring Next Black: the real one.

Her next form looked to fully healed from her fight with Drillix, thanks to her using share to heal it. If the wounds aren't that serious to a goddess's form, it can be healed to where it's fine for use sooner.

"What's wrong, Betrayer?" Next Black tightly said. "Aren't you glad to see this form that you've coveted for so long?"

Neptune started sweating even turning blue. It wasn't just her being glaring by Next Black that scared her, she felt someone else behind her. Someone that seemed furious at her.

"W-who are you?" Neptune stepped back in fear. She could barely hold her sword as it was shaking so much. She can't stop this fear from coming out.

"That's," a voice replied behind Neptune, colder than ice. "Is the one who faced the Dark One, the one who made the Goddess System. The one who's enraged at what you've done, Betrayer."

Neptune shivered again and looked behind to see Next White there. She could feel her again, only if it makes any sense. How she would have beat her with smarts, while Next Black is determined to beat her.

"For you have no love, but for yourself, Betrayer," another voice replied with quiet anger.

Another flood slammed into Neptune, this one full of love. No love for her though, but it's there for others. Ones that needed protection from ones … like her.

Neptune's head snapped to see Next Green floating above them, hands over her chest. Glaring at her with disappointment.

It would seem all the Successors are answering some call to confront Neptune. As if the Original Goddess wanted to say her piece to her.

"Your actions are petty," Next Green stated. "You could have made your land full of fun and love, but you've squandered it for yourself. You didn't even try to care for the young man who was under your rule." Her left hand pointed to Dante.

"Along with," Next White continued. "No wisdom or learning how to use your power. Only leaving ones who could do it, the markings of a dumb leader."

Neptune looked at Next White with disbelief.

"Or no drive to help your people," Next Black replied. "Only being lazy and self-absorbed to not even try, which is why you're never going to succeed at being a goddess."

That was the last straw.

The Successors watched as Neptune cursed at them, spit flying out of her mouth, and glaring at each of them while pointing. "Who are you to judge me? I'm a goddess! I don't care what my creator did or what she says about me. She's dead, not here to help me." Her left hand pointed at herself.

Nepgear gulped at feeling that was the wrong thing to say. She could feel the Original Goddess's presence resonate with her Successors. To say it wasn't happy is an understatement.

Not because she unleashed Drillix, but because she's harmed so many people during her time as ruler. All Neptune is doing pouring gasoline on a raging fire.

Neptune rushed at Next White with her sword, any one of them she needs to hurt. Anything to show them they're wrong about her.

Next Black and Next Green didn't move to help their friend. They know how futile this is.

Next White waited and with a smooth action, knocked the sword out of Neptune's hands and grabbed her wrist. The sword landed a few feet away from the two.

Neptune winched in pain, that grip feels strong as steel.

"So easy to predict and counter," Next White replied coldly.

Neptune gulped at seeing the eyes of Next White, ones that promised pain. The two were staring at each other that they didn't notice a soft glow coming from Next White's right hand.

Next White gasped at feeling something amiss. As for Neptune, she gasped at feeling something odd and … familiar.

The feeling felt wise and mad at something, then a sense of confusion. One that seemed to probe her being. She broke the contact with Next White who loosened her steel grip. Seemly afraid of this feeling.

"W-what in hell was that?" Neptune squeaked at it, this felt so familiar to her.

Next White slowly looked at her hand, the one that held Neptune. After a second, she evilly smirked at Neptune.

If Neptune was afraid before, she's now downright terrorized of that smirk. For it sent shivers down her spine.

"Oh Lowee," Next White sang. "It's time for you to say your piece now." She rushed and grabbed Neptune with both of her hands. Landing on Neptune's arms and holding her in place.

Neptune screamed in terror and tried to break free. She couldn't for Next White's grip is too strong. Suddenly the feeling returned, but this time. She heard dozens of curses flying at her.

Nepgear gulped at seeing what is going on. She couldn't understand it. While it seemed that Next White is holding Neptune down, she's not hurting or talking to her. So why is Neptune screaming as if someone is screaming at her?

"It can't be," a wide-eyed White Sister Rom muttered in shock.

Everyone looked at the candidate to see her shock.

"Rom?" Uni asked with her twin looking at her. Both confused at what's wrong with Rom.

"Onee-chan somehow," White Sister Rom tried to speak while taking a breath. "Somehow is able to connect Neptune to Lowee without her giving access to our share."

"What?" a wide-eyed Uni replied in shock.

Even White Sister Ram had widened eyes. Nepgear gasped at hearing this, she didn't think such a thing is possible.

"I can't explain it, but." White Sister Rom gulped. "Somehow Onee-chan is acting as a bridge between them. I decided to listen if Lowee is talking and he is, but only to Neptune."

Uni slowly looked back at the event in disbelief. It did seem that was happening now she thought of it. This did seem like a landmass talking to its goddess.

Neptune bent over in pain. Next White let go and stepped back, clearly knowing what happened to her. "How, who?" She tried to stay standing from the toll.

A glaring Next White folded her arms. "If you 'listened' you know what this is about. Then again." She pointed behind Neptune. "I afraid that it is not over for you yet, Betrayer."

Neptune turned blue while looking behind her. Seeing both Next Green and Next Black, both clearly looking at her. "No, please not again."

"I'll let you go first," Next Black said to Next Green, clearly not caring about Neptune's plea. "I know that Leanbox has a few things to say to this pain in the ass. Lastation is getting ready for his piece. I don't mind waiting."

Next Green nodded in appreciation. "Thanks, from both of us." She started walking toward the much-scared Neptune.

Neptune started running, anything to get away from them. But while she should be moving, two hands clasped onto her shoulders that stopped her: Next Green's. "S-stop!"

"Like you should have done with your people," Next Green's cold voice replied. "I didn't see you help them, so, I see no reason to be so 'merciful' to you. Plus, Leanbox has a right to say for what you've done to him and me."

Neptune felt it again, this time it was one full of love. It might have felt nice if it wasn't for the slaps hitting her face.

"I'll be." Next Green hummed. "I didn't think Leanbox had it in him to physically harm a person."

"I'll make an exception for this thing," Leanbox replied, both to its goddess and Neptune.

Neptune screamed as an entire lecture was burned directly into her brain, this wasn't like what Histoire did to her. This was much tenser for it's being implanted into very cracks of her mind or felt like it.

Next Green didn't listen as to give full freedom to her Leanbox. Once getting the signal that its done, she terminated the link and backed off. Neptune wobbled a bit forward but still standing from the event.

Neptune breathed hard at being slammed again by that, but she squeaked at seeing Next Black appear before her. "Um … hello, Black Heart." She giggled nervously with a hand on the back of her head.

Next Black narrowed her eyes and grabbed her head. Instantly the connection was made. Neptune braced for anything but felt peace.

She gasped at feeling such a nice, soothing breeze on her being. She heard cheers of people, ones of praising. She couldn't make them out and smiled, for they must be for her.

"It's lady Black Heart." One of the voices, among others, examined in joy.

That one reply shocked Neptune, she looked around to see that she's in Lastation. Now seeing how everyone is happy to see Black Heart appear before them and is smiling, she's even waving at them.

"No, no, no, this can't be happening." Neptune covered her ears to drown out the praises for her most hated enemy. Those praises now sounded as curses against her ears. She needed to drown them out but failing. As it seemed they kept getting through her attempts.

"You'll never have this," Lastation's voice stated, vibrating in her head. "For you had the chance, and you've blown it. For what? Just so you could play your games all the time. Black Heart did play games, but she also knew when to care for her people and land. You're nothing more than a parasite!"

Neptune cursed at land's words. Ones that ran deep into her being.

Next Black stopped the connection and stepped back. Feeling that Lastation is done taking. While it wanted to tell Neptune off, it had enough of being connected to Neptune.

Neptune grinds her teeth, she even looked to be foaming at the mouth. All of them … judging her - her.

"Man," Next Black whistled. "Lastation must have really let her have it. I didn't think he would get her even madder."

Neptune slowly reached into her left pocket, trying to make it seem she's not doing it. This was it, her last move. She hoped it worked. The reason why she didn't try it because there might not be enough power left to do it, but now that doesn't matter.

Nepgear could see that her sister is beaten, complete and utterly. For they didn't buy her act or her new power. The question is what - oh no! Her eyes spotted something coming out Neptune's pocket: restrainers. The ones that she used on the three goddesses before. Ones that could control a goddess.

They must be the spares that she made, but she thought they had been destroyed. Neptune had found a few and planned to use them.

"Everyone," Nepgear screamed to warn them. "Get away from her! She has restrainers and about to use them." She even pointed to damn things.

Neptune grunted at Nepgear's plea, another one that backstabbed her. No matter, she threw the devices at the Successors. Each one glowing while flying at them. She smirked when they landed on their necks and fired up. They didn't even try to stop them.

"I win." Neptune smirked while fist-pumping. Once those things are on, they'll follow her orders again.

"We need to get those things off." Nepgear started to move down the stairs, not alone as the other candidates, soldiers followed. "If we get them off –"

*Crack*

That one noise stopped Nepgear from saying anything more. For that was the sound of a restrainer being crushed. It stopped her trek along with the others to see what made that one single noise.

Neptune gasped as Next Black threw the pieces of the destroyed restrainer at her feet. "Once again, a pathetic way for you to try."

Neptune shivered at seeing Next Green glaring at her with a destroyed device at her feet. Suddenly, stars flashed before her eyes.

It was Next White's punch that dazed the hell out of Neptune. "This time, it's 'my turn' to kick your ass." Like her friends, she destroyed that accursed item into dust.

If Neptune thought that Black Heart hits hard, she is about to learn that Next White is much worse. For when a powerful haymaker hit her stomach, she coughed and hacked. Next White then gave her savage spin kick, one that launched her toward a building.

A whistling noise came from her launch. Neptune couldn't even scream or speak as she's trying to make sense of things. It's happening too quick for her to process, along with a large amount of pain.

Neptune made an impression once landing on the building's wall. Once her mouth opened to moan. Puke, saliva and blood poured out of it. Pouring onto her clothes and the sidewalk.

"Now you are just making more of a mess on my beloved Lowee," Next White stated, slowly walking toward Neptune while cracking her knuckles. She's just getting started.

Neptune twitched and moaned. Those blows felt as if someone slammed an entire building onto her body. She couldn't tell if any of her bones are still intact. Everything hurts so badly. This brat shouldn't be that strong, none of them should be.

"The device doesn't work on them." Nepgear couldn't believe that the restrainers didn't work on them. Somehow, they are to the point where restrainers can't hold them back.

"It would seem that somehow they're immune to the devices," White Sister Ram stated in relief. She didn't want her older sister to numbed by a manic again, no thank you.

Neptune could see that Next White about to pummel her again, she must getaway now. Nothing she's done had any effect on these damn brats. As much she didn't want to, she needs to get the hell away from this accursed place.

Next White was about to punch Neptune's into a pulp, when suddenly a burst of light blinded her.

Everyone covered their eyes from the flashbang Neptune used. Surprising, she also had brought a flashbang. You didn't think she would be this prepared.

Soon as her eyesight came back, Next White growled looking for her target. "I should have known! Rats always have a way to escape."

Lowee did say where the rat is going. Next White looked down at the ground, back into the sewers.

"You're not getting away so easy, Betrayer." It's so easy for her to find and hurt her.

"I know you could find her easy, Next White," Next Black said, walking to stand by her friend. A knowing look on her face.

Next White rose a brow. "It sounds as if I shouldn't go after that bitch."

Next Green stood by watching quietly. But not alone as the others got there. They're looking stumped by Next Black's words.

"What's wrong with you, Noire?" Uni asked the question that's on everyone's mind.

"You've felt it too?" Next Black replied.

Uni tilted her head at the question. She along with White Sister Rom, Nepgear, and White Sister Ram look stumped. But Next Green and Next White seemed to get it as they slowly nodded.

"I did feel it too," Next Green replied somberly. She lowered her head.

Next White rubbed her head. "So, it wasn't just me doing that for the first time. Or that dummies way of thinking."

"Um … what are you talking about?" Nepgear asked taking a step forward. "I know that Onee-chan is in the wrong at what she's done. But … what's wrong with her?" That seemed to be the only thing that made sense to her.

Next Black looked at her. "What I'm talking about is your sister is going nuts. Or has slipped into madness by now."

"W-what?" Nepgear squeaked, trying to make sense of that reply.

"When we synced to her," Next White said. "We've felt a madness or something wrong with Neptune's mind. I thought it was my mind playing tricks, but if the others felt it."

Nepgear gasped, she also saw that look of madness. But to think that. "Can't you help her? I mean, find her and put her in a place for that?"

Next Black glowed and changed back to her human form. "You can do that yourself, as for me. I'm done with her."

Nepgear gasped. "Why not? Aren't you afraid she'll return?"

Noire flatly looked at her. "We could see that she used everything right here. So, she's not a threat anymore and I'm tired of messing with her. So, I'm done with her. If she tries coming after me again, I'll deal with her." She started walking toward the building.

Nepgear watched as she left, confused at Noire leaving.

"She has a point," Blanc replied, she turned back to her human form. "I felt and know that the bitch used everything, she hoped to win this so-called fight. I see no reason to chase her."

The Lowee goddess followed Noire, seemly not caring if Nepgear said anything.

"I'm in no mood to fight anymore either," Vert replied, moving to catch up with her friends. She also agrees with this course of action.

Nepgear lowered her head in thought, it seemed they don't care what happens to her sister anymore.

Noire soon arrived inside the building with a sigh. She sat down in a chair to rest.

"What's with the sigh, Noire?" Vert appeared to Noire's right side, a curious look on her face. She also took a seat.

Blanc sat beside them with a chair to quietly watch them. Simple curiously in her blue eyes.

"I'm just thinking if I'm letting the Betrayer getting off so easy or I'm too soft." Noire crossed her arms.

"I didn't think it was lenient of you when you fought her," Vert replied. "By all counts, you could say she's lucky to be alive after your and Blanc's blows."

Noire could see the point of Vert's reply, she wasn't going soft with her fight. She fought as she would with any opponent before her. Only, why it does it feel weird. Maybe she didn't expect it to be so easy to win or did she have pity for Neptune.

No, that's not why. Noire looked at her friends. "I guess I'm tired of dealing with Neptune. For years, she's been such a problem for me is when I think about it. I don't care if she's alive or dead long as she's not a threat or I'm getting soft."

Blanc cleared her throat. "I don't think you are being soft. I think you're just tired of going after her. When there isn't really any reason for it. Neptune has been defeated, even by some miracle if she stays alive. She's going to be powerless for the rest of her days."

That statement made Vert and Noire look at Blanc with raised brows.

"What do you mean, Blanc?" Vert voiced her question.

"While Neptune did have excess to her goddess power, she foolishly used them. While she shouldn't have done so," Blanc explained.

"In other words," Noire said. "She's going to become a human, all because she pushed beyond her limits."

Blanc nodded her answer.

What they're talking about is what can happen to a goddess if she's not careful when they lost their sharicite. Similarly, to what happened to Iris Heart long ago, Neptune had her crystal destroyed. Only it seemed that Iris Heart rationed her power over the years. Neptune didn't do such a thing, hasting her descent into a human.

It did seem that she wouldn't mind being a human, the truth of the matter is she wanted to stay as a goddess. She wants that power or the recognition of being important. They felt that when synced to her.

The Successors didn't see any reason to go after her, but what about the younger goddesses?

Ram stood where the battle took place. Uni, Rom and Nepgear stayed there also. The twins decided to go back to their human forms as the danger had passed. Only Nepgear looked where the older goddesses went, thinking about what to do.

The soldiers went back to their posts as the current threat has been dealt with and no orders have been given to go after Neptune.

"So," Ram said to break the silence. "Do we go after her? I know that Blanc didn't want to chase after her, but she didn't say we couldn't." She looked at Rom and Uni.

Rom hummed with closed eyes. As for Uni, she folded her arms.

Ram narrowed her eyes. "Am I the only one who wants a piece of the action or …"

"The threat she poses is no longer on us," Rom answered opening her eyes to look at her twin. "We can go after her, but is it worth the effort?"

"What do you mean?" Nepgear asked walking closer, trying to be polite as possible. Given they're tense among her. "We can't just leave her to go mad. I mean, can't we go find and help her?"

Uni frowned while placing her hands on her hips. "I see no reason to help her. I only wanted to make sure she hurts no one again, including my sister. But if she's where she can't do that. I'm mainly satisfied with it. You go and help her, as for me. I'm going where Noire is at." With that said, Uni walked off.

Ram groaned while looking up. "Uni hit the right points. I ready don't want to waste time going after her. I'm getting fed up with going after a sub-boss. Only that was more a pain in the ass to go after." She followed Uni.

Nepgear looked between them and Rom, confused about what to do.

"You can't stop what is going to happen to her," Rom replied to her unspoken question.

Nepgear didn't want to ask but did. "You mean her slipping into madness?" Rom nodded. "But I can't just leave her like that. I'm her younger sister …"

Rom frowned. "No one is going to deny you that. But ask yourself. Is she worth the trouble of finding and saving? She did more harm than good to everyone. While this seems to be mercy, is it? She'll be alone, her mind's broken as Iris Heart. And it's her own fault. Only herself is to blame for her problems.

"For she didn't try to help her people in their time of need. Instead of trying to fix the problems she caused, she only made it worse down the road. I can sense nothing will save her from going mad. Only, she'll be where Iris Heart is at. In a padded cell being cared for. Only by people who are just doing their job to keep her in there. Make your choice on what to do with that."

Nepgear glared at Rom. "Is that what your clairvoyance has to say? Couldn't you tell that before she left or fought Black Heart?"

Rom's face grew angry, causing Nepgear to stiffen. "Don't think I turn it off and on at the flip of a switch or think you know better. There are factors that Neptune might escape from going mad, but I don't think it'll happen. She did this to herself and must pay the price of the crimes she did. You're free to do what you want, Purple Sister."

Nepgear watched as Rom left the place. Shivering at the quiet rage of her.

It wasn't long before Rom caught up with her twin and Uni. They are inside the building but not where the older goddesses are at. They wanted to wait for Rom to catch up.

"Had a nice chat with the idiot?" Ram didn't need to be a genius to know who her twin talked to. While it seemed, Rom is the most tolerant when dealing with Nepgear, she never-the-less is the same as Ram and Uni.

They won't be her friend, now or never as they can't trust her for that.

Rom frowned with a nod, a little calmer now. "She wants us to find and save her sister. I've told her that Neptune's fate is sealed. She didn't like that."

Ram sighed. "I can understand her reasons, but when is the right time to let go? I know that Blanc and I have rough times. While I know that I'm … rebellious at times. But I do love Blanc. When thinking about it, when's the right time to stop trying to help your kin?"

Rom hummed at the question with Uni. They could understand what Ram is talking about. Her own feelings with Blanc. That question is why Blanc had put up with Ram's antics in the past.

"I think," Uni started talking. "The sibling could see that one they're trying to help is trying, or at least to learn the lessons. While true she might be right, you can't forget that she could be wrong too. There is no easy answer, Ram. But I think if you two have an understanding, the two will know when to stop."

Ram gave a small smile. "I guess you're right, Uni. You just need to know what to do when the time comes. I know that we have no love for the Betrayer, but what about Purple Sister? I could tell she still cares for her, but to what extent? There might be a hint she hates her too." She looked toward where Nepgear should be at.

For what would that one choose to do? Will she go after her wayward sister or leave her be? That is the question.

Nepgear hasn't moved from her spot where she talked to Rom. Clearly thinking about what to do about her older sister. Everything that has happened shook her. Did Neptune even care about her anymore?

She didn't try to talk to her or even wave to her. Neptune only focused on White Heart and Black Heart; never did she look at her expect when she screamed her warning. The only look that came was one of anger.

"Did you only see me as a way to add luster to yourself, Onee-chan?" Nepgear muttered to herself.

Even if she should say no, the bitter truth of it is. Neptune could very possibly only see her as a foil. No matter the acting in her story. When it was over, she didn't pay her mind or threw it away when she lost her land. Given what she let happen to it, this was inevitable to pass. Only, they unleashed a dangerous being into the world.

"I'm sorry, Onee-chan." Nepgear clasped her hands over her chest. "But I'm not going to help you. I c-can't do it. I should, given I'm your younger sister and all. But I've done that, and it caused problems. While this might be cruel of me, I just don't want to help you anymore – I'm fed up."

Nepgear gasped at the honesty of her words. She's fed up with being in Neptune's shadow or being just a mere lackey for her. With how her only helping Neptune caused trouble.

She might be a prisoner right now, but she's trying to help fix her mistakes. Even if she might be exiled for her life for what she's trying to do. After much thought and being with the other goddesses. She still had a yearning for having her own land to care for.

"What right do I have for that?" Nepgear looked at the sky. Her eyes are misty at thought of doing it.

A part of her still wanted to rule Planeteptune back then, maybe if she pushed more. She could have saved Planeteptune and became its goddess. But she didn't, listening to her sister's hairbrained ideas. One that she should have known that did more harm than good.

"I don't know if we'll see each other again," Nepgear said with a heavy heart, looking at the ground where Neptune possibly escaped to. "But this is the path I want to follow to the end. I must help them stop Drillix. That is something that must be done. Goodbye Onee-chan, I hope you'll be okay."

With that said, Nepgear turned to join the other goddesses. For they should know her choice of not going after Neptune. Of her leaving Neptune to her own fate of going insane.

To Be Continued.

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