Disclaimer I don't own Hyperdimension Neptunia, or any other references made.
Before the chapter. I would like to say that BlackNoire has started a new fic called The Interquels. It is a fun piece to read.
Chapter Five: The Awakening of Change
Someone looked to see a pair of eyes staring at them.
The eyes are yellow with a red slit in them, along with what could be insanity.
"So, you've noticed my spying, haven't you goddess," a voice replied, it sounded female with an echo.
While it was heard, the voice had a sense of joy to it.
A shiver came to the person, and that voice sounded unhinged.
But a snort came. "So, you haven't decided to become a goddess. Just be a human. No matter, either way, I can't wait for the fun to begin."
Then came a booming laugh, filled with what could be insanity.
Blanc's eyes snapped open, cold sweat on her face. She took deep breaths to calm down.
After a few seconds, her racing heart calmed.
She sat up from her bed, one with white covers.
She looked around to see some unpacked boxes and noticed it was morning. This is the new rental place that she moved to yesterday.
It was a bit larger than the one at C-city. But along the outskirts of the city. As she wanted some distance to keep safe. As this was a bit hidden in the country of C-city.
Even her name wasn't used when filling out the paperwork online.
Blanc brought her knees to her chest. "Is that what's coming? That thing in my dream."
While she had dreams of being talked to by her goddess side, this was different.
Whoever that was, they seemed crazy as hell. As if they wanted to fight her.
Instead of having dread, it seemed up to fight her or a goddess. As if it enjoys fighting.
Blanc shivered, that voice knows what she is. She gulped in realization.
"That woman is somehow helping keep the sharicte restrained. I don't know how, but she is helping. If a goddess didn't claim it. Could it possible for share to be siphoned?"
From what she knows, share energy is made by faith. Collected into a crystal and can give power to a goddess and a city.
Which is why she ignored the pleas of the share crystal in C-city. She was afraid of harming the people who used its power to run the city. In a sense, pull the plug.
Blanc winched, it was another call to free the sharicte, it knows that thing talked to her.
"Enough, please," Blanc pleaded. "I don't want this responsibility. How could I be a ruler for them? They deserve a…"
The connection died, but felt the pleas of the ones who called for her.
Blanc looked at her place, feeling a heavy burden on her. "I don't know what to do. How can I be a goddess?"
That is what eats at her the most. To be a ruler for the lives of all those people. Make sure they live peaceful lives.
She kicked off her covers. To show she is wearing a short white shirt.
The shirt had a pink heart over the chest barely reaching her waist. Giving a view of her white panties, which have cute stars.
She stiffened at feeling something else, her eyes turned red.
"It can't be." Blanc couldn't believe it. "That woman is coming here! She is barely at the edge of my sense. Getting closer and seems stronger than before. She is."
The brown-haired woman gulped that person is coming here. Could it mean something has happened? She might be searching for her, as it was possible to determine she lived in C-city.
That just left one thing: will she confront her?
Blanc got up and growled. "This better be worth it. I'm taking a risk again, damn it all to hell." She moved to where some of her clothes are unpacked.
After getting her white dress, hat, and sandals. Done dressed.
She rushed out to the garage, this place has one. Helping in hiding Karuta. As her t-vehicle could give her away.
She could see her t-vehicle, it wasn't running. But, it has a sense of excitement.
From what its master sensed, that goddess is close-by with Cavaliere.
Blanc clicked her tongue. "Karuta we're going to find that woman."
Karuta's engine fired up, ready to go find the duo.
Now if only it would get the chance to race against that t-vehicle.
The two rushed off to find that person.
In an office at K-city, the ruler of K-city was downright furious. She is sitting at her desk, a computer is there. Giving her information.
Yesterday her special ops failed, even a band of mercenaries failed. Then again, she should've got a good one.
Not send it to all of them, as she found out that Neptune's band found Noire, and failed.
That's what she got for acting so hastily, but she wanted her love so badly.
But also, she learned that Noire is getting stronger. Not only to kill her special ops, but that band had problems in subduing her.
Then came the worse part, posts about Noire are being found online. Asking questions about who this person was to drive through the streets as the former goddess. While there have been a few incidences of people racing through the streets, as they wanted to race. But some have noticed how that motorcycle is different.
Even a few have taken pictures of it, while not that good. There are talks of it being a t-vehicle. Which would lead the people to think a goddess is running around. Which might not be so bad, as she wanted to let them know about her future companion when Noire is convinced to be with her.
But now, a ringing came, breaking the thoughts of the ruler.
She looked and growled. "Oh great, they've noticed."
There are two numbers on the screen of her computer, she knows those numbers: the other rulers are calling.
With no choice, she answered the calls. The screen showed two women. One seemed to have a blank look. While the other is … eating something.
The ruler of K-city sighed. "Do you have to eat right now?" That was directed to the one eating, mainly the leader of their group.
Or the second in command as their benefactor is the one in charge of the grand plan.
The person shallowed and giggled. "I can't help it. You know my appetite, as this was too important to talk about now."
The ruler of K-city shrugged, she knows how the ruler of C-city is. Having that appetite, but the other one seems uninterested, as usual.
"I see you're in the usual form," the ruler of K-city replied to the ruler of S-city.
That person sighed with folded arms. "Right, I don't care about that goddess who escaped your clutches. Knowing you, probably wanted a playmate."
The ruler of K-city winched with a blush. "I can't help … she's." She looked away.
The ruler of C-city stopped eating and glared at the blushing ruler with cold blue eyes. "Now's not the time for that. I can understand if you want to get 'friendly' with someone, but not with the enemy."
K-city's ruler snared at her. "Noire isn't an enemy! She's just lost and doesn't know what side she is on. If I just get her, I could make her see what side to join. Not this running around."
The ruler of C-city folded her arms. "All the while, have a goddess who could claim your sharicite. Take away that power, and make things where we can't fight the threat. As it seems to be planning something. The monsters are changing. Leading to problems, our benefactor is getting antsy. You know she isn't ready to show herself."
The ruler of K-city slammed a fist on her desk, her eyes taking a yellow glow. "Then she should do something, beside babysit! I know that thing is under a crumbling lock and key. But she could do more to help."
The ruler of S-city shook her head. "You forget she did."
K-city's ruler knows what the ruler is talking about. The goddess that appeared in S-city, the benefactor is the one who meet her and nearly killed the new goddess. Only by skin of the goddess's teeth did she escape.
They have been looking for her since, but nothing. Even S-city's share crystal seems dormant as if that goddess was avoiding taking it. Or overlooking it on purpose.
But from what they know, the share crystals of C-city and K-city are fighting against them.
Leading to the current problem between the two cities. They have goddesses who might claim the crystals, throwing a huge monkey wrench into their plan. Not only could they lose power, but they would also have two fully-fledged goddesses running around. With no telling what kind of power they possess. As each goddess has their strength and ability.
Then they could expose themselves to the public, leading to conflict. As there shouldn't be any more goddesses if they show themselves. It would lead to questions about why they are back, as the rulers did say no more would be created. If they find out what is going on, it could lead to … unnecessary problems.
"So," the ruler of K-city replied, calmer with her blue eyes. "What's next? Noire is somewhere out there, as with your so-called pest."
The ruler of C-city clicked her tongue. "Someone help that one."
K-city's ruler raised a brow. "What?"
The ruler of C-city's eyes glowed yellow. "Someone helped in hiding the goddess's information, giving her time to learn what she is. Maturing into a threat. As I found her name and living quarters, only to find she was gone. As it was empty when my forces stormed it."
The ruler of K-city tried not to smirk at karma coming back to their leader. But still, her jealousy came. The possibility is that goddess makes a move on her Noire.
"Do you have a picture of the goddess who appeared in C-city?" the ruler of K-city asked, thinking dark thoughts.
"Yes, but our benefactor has ordered a squad to take care of them," the ruler of C-city replied.
Ice gripped the ruler of K-city. "What? I thought I could—"
A hand rose to silence her, from the leader of the trio. "Our benefactor has seen our failures and isn't pleased. She can't have 'other goddesses' interference. As they won't be ready for the threat. So, the squad should find them in time."
The ruler of K-city seethe, she knows that group. They are good at tracking and should find Noire, and possibly kill her. As they have the tools for the job.
"I know your infatuation with that goddess," C-city's ruler replied coldly. "But, she's a threat to our mission. One that needs to be terminated."
The ruler of K-city lowered her head with a nod. "Understood, the mission must be completed. It is the reason why we joined. We need to make sure the threat is stopped. No matter the cost."
The ruler of C-city nodded, her eyes no longer glowing. "Right. Let us focus on preparing for the upcoming battle."
She got agreements for the other two.
Once the call was terminated, the ruler of K-city cursed her rotten luck. She hoped to avoid this, but now. It is out of her hands.
"Great, those plushies will be the only thing left of my Noire," the ruler of K-city muttered in melancholy.
She had plushies of Noire being made, hopeful to tie her over once she had Noire. As it would take some time to 'convince' the goddess to join her. But now, she won't have the chance.
Noire is racing toward C-city on the highway, being careful not to go over the speed limit. As she woke up an hour ago. Thankfully found an abandoned house to sleep in, while she hated breaking into it. It was the best option right now.
Her picture could be posted everywhere, given how Neptune's group said there is a bounty on her.
A hotel is out of the question right now. Then when she slept, another dream came to her. Much different than the ones before.
It was seeing K-city's sharicite screaming in pain. Wrapped in yellow chains. With a person laughing in the background, with a pair of yellow eyes watching this in joy.
Noire shivered at remembering that laugh, it was filled with insanity. As if this person is taunting her, gloating at her to fight this.
But, to claim the sharicite, become a full goddess. How could she do that? She hasn't learned how to be a ruler. She focused on herself, as she had to. No one would teach her.
She growled and hoped to find help with that mysterious woman. It was a long shot, but better than nothing.
After a few minutes, she reached a plain that had a few rocks. While there is a few around, she winched.
In one spot, she felt her.
Noire pulled over to the side, looking around the area. Cavaliere rumbled, that Karuta is here.
"They are here," Noire agreed with her t-vehicle, still looking for the duo.
Sure you couldn't count a vehicle as someone but after her experience. A t-vehicle isn't a normal one. Given how Cavaliere helped her.
She spotted a kart coming at her, from a dirt road. Her eyes turned green.
Soon, Blanc appeared with her t-vehicle. She parked by Noire glaring with blue eyes.
Blanc got out, stomping toward the two. "Is payback for earlier?"
Noire slowly got off her t-vehicle, careful not to make things tense. While she could be surprised at seeing this stranger. The thing is, she knows that this is that woman from before.
She has blue eyes with brown hair and that feeling.
Blanc seethe as the black-haired woman stared at her. While she got a good look at Noire, the same couldn't be said for her.
Noire could see that the brown-haired woman wasn't tall as her. She seemed taller than Neptune and Histoire. Along with having longer hair, not as long as hers. But still different.
Blanc took a step back when Noire raised her hand, a flash to show a claymore.
Blanc's eyes turned red and nearly got her hammer, it would seem this woman came for a fight.
Only for Noire to prompt the claymore on her t-vehicle. With another flash, her M-9 was placed on the motorcycle, and her backpack. "I'm not that good with … this. But I wanted to talk to you."
Blanc watched as Noire stepped to the side, away from her weapons. The black-haired woman is a good distance away from her weapons and t-vehicle. While she might be fast, the brown-haired woman could attack before anything happens.
But.
Noire is on edge, she can't say what the brown-haired woman would do. If she can call weapons, it is a surefire bet that this person could do the same. When they meet last, the brown-haired woman had a Desert Eagle. It must be her gun. She was leaving herself open to attack.
Blanc frowned but slowly walked to Karuta. Once there, in a flash, both of her weapons appeared in her hands. Slowly, she placed them in her t-vehicle.
"Look after them, Karuta. I'm going to talk to her, be on guard."
The kart rumbled.
Blanc slowly moved closer to Noire. After standing a few feet away from the woman, she said, "First thing you should know, is my name."
Noire slowly nodded.
"I'm Blanc," Blanc introduced herself.
Noire raised a brow. "Blanc … I'm Noire."
Blanc raised a brow. "Noire, black in another tongue. As with my name. I wonder if there is more to that." She rubbed her chin in thought.
She has wondered why her name means white. Could it have something to do with her goddess nature, as she had seen that color on her weapons?
Noire watched as Blanc seemed to be thinking.
Blanc sighed. "Another thing to think about, but why are you here?" She folded her arms.
Noire frowned. "What you warned me about. Sorry to say, I goofed on it," she reluctantly replied.
Blanc shook her head. "Great, you thought coming to me would help. I'm not one to take in strays."
Noire growled with balled fists. "I'm not a stray! First finding out I'm a goddess, then those dreams. I should have stuck to myself." She looked away with a huff.
Blanc shivered. "Dreams." She couldn't be talking about what she's been having, could she?
Noire looked at Blanc, she heard that mutter.
Blanc needed to know. "In your dreams, is there a pair of yellow eyes looking at you?"
Noire shivered. "Yes, but it was over a restrained share crystal. Laughing at it being restrained."
Blanc rubbed her chin with a hum.
Noire watched as the brown-haired woman pondered.
She clicked her tongue with putting a fist in her hand. "Great, just bloody great. Not only do I have to worry about damn monsters getting strong. With the damn rulers want my head. Also, we have some insane idiot helping in keeping share crystals restrained.
"By all accounts, why in the hell did those damn crystals… make us. Couldn't it find some other way of solving those problems?" Blanc demanded.
Noire sighed, knowing those frustrations. She did want to know who she is but never thought of being a goddess. Just someone who lost their memories, because of an event. Not being created.
Blanc seethed at her luck. Her problems keep getting worse, but she has to deal with Noire first. "Look, I understand your problems but." She stopped at feeling something.
Noire winched, she looked behind to see a few vehicles coming from the direction she did.
"I don't think they're passing by," the black-haired woman replied tightly, her insides froze.
Blanc was about blame Noire for this but stiffened. She felt another group from the north, she looked to see the same vehicles over there. All of them are too similar to be a coincidence.
"Oh shit," she swore under her breath. "They must have been tracking the both of us."
Noire glared at the group. "Time to get moving. Maybe we can outrun them."
Blanc clicked her tongue. "It won't be easy, they're boxing us in. They must have noticed we're the ones they are looking for."
Noire could see them, all of them SXS Maverick X3s. Each one has two people, armed by the looks of things.
"What to do?" Blanc didn't like the odds. It looked to be around eighteen of them, enough to take out a group.
They want them dead.
Noire clicked her tongue and rushed to Cavaliere. Once on, she put away her weapons and donned her backpack. "Cavaliere, get ready to ride with no limits."
Her t-vehicle rumbled its agreement.
Blanc growled, "Karuta, let's-a go."
Her t-vehicle revved its motor, ready for action. She hopped in, put away her weapons, and took off.
Noire rode beside her, causing a glare from Blanc.
"Are you following me?"
Noire glared back. "Maybe! I don't know where to hide. Or if you give me directions to where these bastards aren't going, please do."
Blanc grumbled, it even seemed Cavaliere roared at them. It must be holding a grudge from their last encounter.
Blanc blasted off toward the east, hopefully, they can lose this bunch. Before they keep arguing with each other. "Keep up with us."
Noire clicked her tongue, following the kart. Cavaliere roared at the kart, this time, it'll show that cheating kart how fast it can go.
The two are moving pretty fast for their vehicles, only to see two in front of them.
"Shit!" Blanc cursed, she should have known, they noticed where they were going.
Even it could be argued that people are hot-rodding. They could tell that they are the targets, once getting a look at them. As they might be pictures of them or even seeing their t-vehicles. As they could have been told to look out for anyone with special vehicles.
Noire cursed at it all, she couldn't turn herself over. They would only lock her up, or by this point. Kill her as she could make out the weapons with this group. All of them are armed with guns.
Is this end? Noire thought grinding her teeth. She escaped her city and lost her home. Now, she'll lose her life.
All because they didn't want her around.
No.
Noire glared at the group, her eyes glowing green. "I'm not backing down. They want a fight, let's give them one!"
Cavaliere roared at feeling this, it sparked. While these are humans, they could be duped. They are now enemies of the kart's master. She wanted to ride into battle, it will follow.
For it is her chariot. Her battle companion.
Blanc gasped at seeing Noire pull out her M-9, is she crazy?! Taking on this group is … the only way. She's been dodging fighting, as it would lead to tragedy. She knows these people could have loved ones. But now, they will kill her.
Her, who didn't ask to be born a goddess. All because some bitch wanted to keep her rule. When they … shouldn't be in charge. They have corrupted their city, made them forget their history, and forced them to be something they shouldn't be.
Blanc glared, her eyes glowing red. "It is time for battle, my chariot! Let us show them you don't mess with us." She primed her weapons on Karuta.
Karuta revved its motor, and it softly glowed.
While it hasn't been in a fight, as Cavaliere could have been. Given the motorcycle has died blood on it. Nevertheless, it is a t-vehicle.
Made for battle, whether it be monster or human. All who threaten it and its master will face them.
For they will face them as comrades.
Noire pushed the throttle on her t-vehicle, feeling a rush come to her. Unknowing she is starting to draw power from the share crystal in K-city.
She's been limiting taking share energy, as she wasn't sure what to do. But with threats to her.
She is starting to claim what wanted to be hers: the share crystal.
In a control room, the place where K-cities sharicite is housed. Everyone was calmly working, making sure things are running smoothly. Suddenly, a blast of light came. Warning lights and sirens sounded.
Everyone cursed, scared at all the readings on their monitors.
They stared at the share crystal. It was glowing yellow, the normal color they thought it should be, but it turned blue. Causing sparks.
"What in the hell is going on?!" the supervisor rushed in, clearly here. Doing her job as usual.
Only for what seemed to be all hell unleashed.
One of the techs called her over. She rushed over and looked at the readings.
"What?" She looked at something that was in the crystal.
She had never seen those readings, it look to be a foreign thing. Now being shown as something that is helping the share crystal… remove it.
Her blue-gray eyes stared at the crystal. "You had something in there, all this time."
The share crystal nearly turned yellow but pulsed. Struggling to stay blue, the goddess is calling for power.
Its true owner is claiming it for battle. It must be free of this taint. Those beings have no right to use it. That thing must be stopped, and this isn't the way.
In C-city, near the place where the share crystal is at.
The supervisor of C-city is in her own office, shivering. She is watching what is taking place on her computer. Their sharicite is fighting the taint. That must mean, the new goddess is claiming it.
"Please," she pleaded. "I know we haven't met, but please. You must take it, even if it leads to tragedy. The road we're on isn't the correct path. You can make it right."
She needed to keep away from everyone right now. If they catch wind of what she is saying, it might get heard by the wrong people. As she is hoping the share crystal will be claimed by a goddess.
The true owner who could set things right. While she hoped they could help the new goddess before anything bad happens, sadly with things are. They have to go with trial by fire.
As she got wind that a task force was sent to kill the goddesses. It must mean they found the one that escaped K-city. Even the one from C-city.
They must be getting share, unknowing they're claiming it for themselves. As they need that power to survive.
It might be the only way for them to survive against the odds.
Noire could see the SXSs coming at them. She has no long-range weapons on her t-vehicle, only her gun. But she could feel what Cavaliere could do, after seeing and feeling it. She might get gunned down, but better to fight her way out of this.
Blanc gripped the sterling wheel, hoping they weren't after her. But still ready for action.
(Listen to Doomsday Clock by Smashing Pumpkins.)
One of SXS was near the targets, while the bulk of them are men. They did have a few females, all wearing black to hide who they were. They had orders from a different channel, but nonetheless.
It was an official source, calling for the termination of those two.
While weren't sure about the one in the kart, as it was a fuzzy picture. But she matched what they would be looking for with the black-haired woman.
Once it was confirmed that they are the ones, they fired an RPG at two.
Causing the two to go in different directions. A few have an RPG for any situation. As each one of them has MP5-N.
Noire charged at the closest one, it was official. They weren't going to play around. So, she'll have to fight them. As they can't escape with them blocking their exits.
They gasped as Noire came at them, is this person going to ram them? She has no weapons but an M-9. Still, they readied their MP5-Ns to shoot.
Noire was close enough, then pressed the top button on the t-vehicle's control. Instantly her t-vehicle went into a wheelie, only now. She didn't brake as last time.
She rushed toward her target, but before the wheel hit the front of SXS, the front wheel of the motorcycle transformed.
The two gasped at seeing such a thing, then it landed while spinning. Instantly the front was torn by the chainsaw-like wheel. Noire shot at the driver as her t-vehicle destroyed the passenger side, killing the other one.
Gore came from her attack. She pressed the button again, the wheel went back to normal. She backed away from the ruined SXS and fired at another driver. She grazed them but made them turn.
Blanc could see two SXSs coming behind her, gaining ground. She growled, it seems they will have to fight.
"Think you are fast enough, let's see if you can keep up." Blanc pushed a button on her steering wheel, it had a mushroom with little black eyes on it.
The two vehicles were close to the kart, the passengers had their MP5-Ns primed. Just a little closer to open fire. Only for the kart to … blast away.
"What the?" one of the passengers said in disbelief. How could a kart go that fast?
It didn't look to have boosters of any kind.
Blanc couldn't stop her smirk at seeing them shocked, but she pressed another button. She will defend herself, as they will kill her. She only hoped to lessen the casualties.
The button she pressed had a banana peel with black eyes. Once pressed, a bunch of small yellow spikes came out from behind the kart.
The two vehicles drove onward, knowing they have specialized tires. That should resist those spikes, as they drive anywhere and needed to be ready. Only once drove over them, the tires busted from them. They cursed while flipping from having their tires blown. While they had seatbelts in the SXS, the roof collapsed, crushing them from the weight.
"Don't underestimate your opponent," Blanc said to the two. "If you think we'll roll over and die, think again bastards." She punched the gas.
Karuta blasted off, proud at defeating those vehicles. It did feel its master's grief at killing them, but they aren't blindly doing this. They were provoked.
You just don't do that unless you're willing to pay the price for attacking a goddess and her t-vehicle.
Blanc clicked her tongue at seeing an SXS coming at her. The black vehicle is in front, and by the looks of things. They would open fire on her, given they had seen how dangerous it is to be behind her.
"Nice try, but bad choice," Blanc replied, pressing another button. This one had a green shell on it.
The two in the charging vehicle going to the kart couldn't believe what they seeing. First, a motorcycle that could shred one of their specialized vehicles as tissue paper. Using a wheel that can transform.
Then a kart that has a booster with spikes that ruin tires, who in the hell are they facing?
They could see something launch from the front of the kart. They tensed as if that could be a missile. Only to see an empty green shell come at them.
"Is that a joke?" the driver said, not sure if they should dodge such a thing.
The shell rushed toward its target, they moved to miss but got hit by it on the side. Once that landed on the SXS, a loud boom came. The shell acted as an RPG.
Destroying the SXS as any missile.
The others who saw this couldn't believe it. That looked like an attack from a t-vehicle. As some have seen footage from the previous goddess of C-city using such attacks.
Noire could see the explosion caused by Blanc. She shot at the driver of one of the SXS, missing him as he dodged, nearly flipping his vehicle as it turned. She charged at another and engaged the chainsaw tire, landing on a terrified driver.
She tried not to throw up but pressed the attack, taking out another one. She backed away before someone shot at her back.
She rushed away only to see them out of their vehicles, behind them as a barrier. She could tear the vehicles, but not get the people with guns. She felt Cavaliere gave her instructions on another attack it could do. One that will help if she's strong enough.
Noire poured on the gas. "Time to break a few limits, Cavaliere."
She charged at the group, then leaned back and pushed the throttle as much it could go. She doesn't have a ramp, which would make it easier but she launched into the air. She drove over one of the SXS's hoods, thankfully sturdy enough to support her. She could see them about to open fire, this was risky.
But she pressed the top and bottom buttons of her t-vehicle at the same time. She could feel her motorcycle starting to transform as she is above the group.
The group was about to open fire on the black-haired woman, only to gasp as the motorcycle sparked with a roar.
They watched in shock, as it seemed to be in slow motion the motorcycle split into two halves. It was in the middle of the motorcycle, then the wheels bent a little to where the wheels are freer, and the front blades went into the fins. The twin wheels became chainsaws.
Noire screamed while the handles that drove the t-vehicle went into a port by the split. She turned the back one giving a little thrust from the burner. She slammed the front part into a shocked person, she pressed the lever. Instantly the wheel turned, grinding the person with sparks coming it.
Noire twisted into a spin, knocking the people close enough to get hit by the other one. The sound of screams and rumbling from chainsaws. She put both halves in front of her and turned them on. She struggled to hold on as the force drove her forward toward three of the group.
They were killed in the attack. Mangled bodies left from the attack.
Noire clenched her teeth from this. Cavaliere in its weapon mode is hard for her to handle. It is heavy and slow, but strong as hell. A bullet whizzed by her cheek.
She screamed in pain, looking to see a few left.
She brought the halves together and they went back to motorcycle form. She drove away as bullets passed her. Another hit on her shoulder, it didn't enter but left a wound.
I need more power, Noire thought in desperation, turning to dodge the bullets. I need more.
Her form started glowing.
Blanc cursed as a few bullets pounded Karuta. None of the tires were hit, but things are bad. She turned to miss an RPG coming for her. Thankful it missed by a few feet but the shockwave rocked her t-vehicle.
Things are going to hell fast, Blanc thought. She screamed as a bullet passed by her cheek, hurting her and Karuta. She also had another wound on her right arm.
She could feel the pain of her companion. While it hurt, it wasn't going to give up. Not until it is destroyed or she is dead. Long as it can serve its goddess.
Blanc could feel the call, the share crystal is asking for her to claim it. Offering to give her the strength to fight.
Blanc could deny it as she had been doing, but no. The pleas with the people who wanted change. They are tired of being used. She screamed her acceptance.
In an office at C-city, the ruler is breathing hard, sitting at her desk, trying to keep the share crystal under control. But then she screamed as it happened.
In the control room of C-city's share crystal, a burst of light came. Causing the people to shield their eyes. It dimmed and they looked to see the sharicite look … different. It is no longer glowing yellow but a beautiful white.
A new goddess has claimed it. Now it'll give her access to her full power, letting her followers have their power. But the taint will be purged. Along with the one who has been stealing from them.
In K-city, the ruler growled while glaring at the share crystal from her office. She is struggling to keep it under control. But is failing, long as Noire is around. Only if she stopped will it be under her control again.
But she can't stop it. This was frustrating to her.
She's glad that Noire would survive the attack but also. The mission will be jeopardized without the sharicite under her control. She screamed as the sharicite was freed from her control.
The supervisor watched as the share crystal surged. It changed color to a dark blue and stayed that color. It gave a soft glow.
Finally, the goddess has claimed her birthright. Now it is freed from those who would exploit its power. It will give power to the goddess and her followers, as it was before this.
For it's time for this goddess to have no limits.
Back on the plain where the battle is taking place. Noire screamed as she kept driving, she did it. She accepted the share crystal's plea to claim it.
Power is rushing into her being, she can't contain it anymore. Her form glowed brighter as she felt the separation within herself mended. Her hair started turning white with her wounds healing.
Cavaliere roared while glowing, its master has accepted her crystal. Now it will have its full power. As a goddess transforms, so will a t-vehicle.
As they share a bond.
The group nearly fired at the spot again only for a flash of light to blind them, along with that motorcycle doing a doughnut. Throwing dust all around.
Blanc glowed, her hair turning blue. She punched the gas to dodge another attack by the group. She couldn't stop this power from pouring into her being. Already she is transforming, making her stronger and healing her wounds.
Her full power is coming to her. Already she could see the damage done to Karuta fixing itself, transforming with her. She spotted a large rock that should give her some cover, she pressed the mushroom button to get away.
She just needed a few seconds.
The group could see a glow come from the kart, now what is going on? They primed their MP5-Ns as these two have been hard to kill. They are stronger than thought with crazy vehicles.
(Listen to Life Will Change by Lyn)
The other group is near Noire. They fired at hearing a motor roar as a lion. Then a figure burst out of the cloud. They fired at it to see the motorcycle coming at them. Faster than before it rammed into the few who were on foot, they screamed it ran them over with its chainsaw and blades.
Then it rushed at two vehicles, and rotate, launching a spark of electricity at them. Frying the vehicles and the drivers still in them.
The others shivered at seeing this and getting a good look at the motorcycle. While it killed their fellow personnel. It looked majestic.
It was still white but seemed to glow. A soft blue glow came from the middle.
They got their bearings and were about to fire on the t-vehicle, only for a scream of pain to come from the side.
Instantly they pointed their MP5-Ns and saw her.
A woman that moved quickly while wielding a claymore, she had already taken out someone. She kicked a woman close by, once on the ground, and stabbed her with the sword, stabbing her heart.
She glared at them with her green eyes that have power icons in them.
Her long white hair is a little past her shapely rear. Two bangs that are by her head are blue. She is wearing a black skinsuit that covered her torso; showcasing her sizable bust as it had a slit on the top, also showing her lean body. Under her chest is a blue square, that seemed to be glowing. Her sleeves are white the gauntlets black. Her knee-length boots are black, except the soles are white.
"A g-g-goddess," one of them stammered in fear.
A fear shared by others. As they had all heard of how strong a goddess can be. Still, they raised their MP5-Ns to fire.
Noire snarled at them, they still dare to attack her. Her blade is still in the woman, she raised her empty right hand, and a flash revealed her M-9. It was still the same color, only a little bigger.
She fired at them, hitting one of them. More than one bullet hole as it fired three bullets.
The group snapped and fired on the goddess, fear now driving them. As this was a goddess. One that is here and isn't happy.
Noire ran to the side, and her left hand grabbed her blade. But instead of using it. It was put away, she fired at them with her M-9.
Cavaliere roared, feeling the call of its master. It missed a few as they dodged while firing at it. They realized that this was a t-vehicle.
What they were fighting were goddesses this whole time.
Noire rushed over with putting away her M-9, and she commanded her chariot to transform. Instantly, it changed into its weapon form.
Noire gripped it and grabbed the lever once her t-vehicle was within grabbing distance. She blasted toward the terrified group. She moiled them down with her t-vehicle. Her strength has increased to where she can use it fully.
Her eyes went to where the other one is at. She has transformed as her.
The other group has seen the others be decimated. They have reinforcements on the way. But will it be enough?
They heard an engine and the kart appeared. They blinked as it looked different. No longer sporting damage. It has a lite red glow with three shells circling it, all red. The wheels are bigger.
Karuta rushed at the group, now in its transformed state.
They opened fire, only for the shells to form a shield. Blocking the bullets.
"Now it has a shield!" one of them exclaimed, this keeps getting weirder by the second.
First, their targets drive powerful vehicles, and now this.
It was then, they realized no one was driving that kart.
"Of course," a cold voice replied behind them. "You've attacked a goddess. You should've expected her chariot to be strong."
The group shivered but turned to see a person. But before they could attack, a flash of weapon incinerated them.
The last two screamed at getting a look at the person who appeared.
Her red eyes glared at them, glowing power icons there. In her hands was a glowing red axe. She seemed fairly tall, her blue hair had two long sideburns, and the back part is near her back. Her white skinsuit showed a lean and curvy figure, as it covered her torso. Her sleeves are white but the gauntlets are different. Her right was blue with the other orange. Her boots are white with hints of blue.
Blanc looked at where a few are at. Using their vehicles as cover. She kneeled, dropping her axe. But not weaponless for long, her Desert Eagle appeared, it was about the same, but only had two buttons on the side. She pressed the blue button and fired.
The two were pressed against the vehicle, using it as a barrier. Seeing the goddess wield a Desert Eagle of all things.
While it is a powerful pistol, it can't rapid fire.
They could time it right, only to be shocked when that bullet hit, and ice erupted around the impact area.
"A magic bullet," one of them said.
Magic bullets are a manifestation of magic, only in bullet form.
Only a person born in C-city could have this ability.
They then spotted a red shell coming for them behind, it landed with an explosion.
It was from Karuta, they worked together on this attack. The kart acted as a distraction while its master got behind them.
Blanc could see no more around, she lowered her head by putting away her weapons.
"Sorry, but you left me no choice," she muttered softly to them.
Her heart is heavy from taking these lives.
She heard a motorcycle, it must be Noire. As she felt the black-haired woman's presence but it seemed different.
Karuta moved to be by its master. No longer having the shells around it.
Blanc gave a nod to her t-vehicle and stood. "Thanks for helping, my friend."
The t-vehicle rumbled its thanks.
Blanc looked to see Noire drove up on her t-vehicle, both are transformed as her.
Noire parked by Blanc, looking over the goddess. "So, that is what you look like when transformed."
Blanc frowned with hands on her hips. "Yes, if that is to tease me. I'm in no mood for it."
While she is taller with a larger bust, she is a bit smaller than Noire by a few inches. From what she could tell. Sure it seemed Noire was taller than her before, but it seemed she also got a little taller with a bust to match.
Noire sighed. "I won't, it just … I didn't know what to expect. As I haven't seen any pictures of a goddess in her battle state."
Blanc nodded, even though she had trouble getting information on them. Let alone a picture.
They stiffened and looked to the south. They could make out more of them coming.
Blanc growled. "Oh for love of everything reading. How many asses do we have to kick."
Noire clicked her tongue, sure she could keep fighting. But was tired and didn't want to kill anymore.
"Damn, we need to get out of here." She looked at other spots. There didn't seem to be anymore.
Only coming from the south.
Blanc looked in the direction of her new home. It was hidden pretty well. Thankfully, she knows a path that will lose this bunch, and help keep it hidden longer.
However.
Noire heard Blanc getting into her t-vehicle. She could see the blue-haired goddess looking at her.
"Follow me," Blanc ordered tightly. "My place isn't that far, but we need to trick them. So, keep up with us. Or you're on your own."
She went westward.
Noire clicked her tongue. While it could have been said better, at least Blanc is offering a place for her.
She followed the other goddess. She was side by side with the kart.
Cavaliere is tempted to blast past Karuta but reined it in.
They are allies for now.
Noire gave a small smile, knowing her t-vehicle still wanted to race against Karuta. That was comical in its way.
To be worried about something so insignificant, but made her appreciate it more. A few days ago, she was enjoying such things.
How she will miss those simple days.
Blanc gave a quick look at the duo following her. Not sure what to think. Her peaceful life is gone.
Once she claimed C-city's sharicite there is no going back.
Along with feeling it gave power to her and the people. A small blessing. But, she also felt the taint that was in it, with something taking share.
She can't say who or what did that, but someone was taking power from the share crystal.
She'll need to talk to Noire about this. See if it wasn't just her.
Then heard and sensed their tails.
Blanc looked to see about five SXS coming after them.
"You got to give them credit," Noire said, noticing the group. "They don't know when to quit."
Blanc growled, she knows the place. As she read up on the area for research. She could see the gorge ahead.
While they could drive around it. But if she did it just right. She could fly over it with Karuta.
Noire could the gorge ahead, she clicked her tongue. "You won't jump over that."
Blanc nodded. "Correct, if we do it right. We could cross it, giving us the edge to lose them."
Noire could see the reckless plan would work. As the gorge is big. They are going to the part that has the smallest gap but still seemed to be a hundred feet.
She throttled her t-vehicle. "Well, it's better than getting caught and killed. At least we have a better chance of living."
Cavaliere increased its speed, knowing it need all it can muster for this. Along with showing up that cheating kart.
Karuta went fast as it goes without its booster, it will let its master make the call. Still, if that motorcycle thinks it will take this lying down, it has another thing coming.
Blanc didn't like this crazy idea. But it was the best option, besides fighting this group.
She already had enough fighting people that don't need to be fought.
The group was getting closer to its targets. They left a few to investigate what was left of the others. But what they could tell, all have been wiped out. Making the question, who were they facing?
A passenger looked at the targets with binoculars. Making sure he was seeing they had the right people.
While only seeing the backs of the women, he could tell they are wearing skin suits.
One looked back, the one with white hair. He gasped at seeing those eyes. Because if what he is seeing is right, she has power icons in them. Which means that those are goddesses.
As you could get a skin suit anywhere, but those eyes are only what a goddess can have.
Noire faced the gorge. "Here we go. When this is over, I'm going to a cosplay convention."
Blanc could have spit out a drink, that is if she had one. She looked at Noire in disbelief. "Out of all the things you could do. You want to go to a cosplay convention."
Noire blushed. "Well, I've tried to make my own. I thought if I could see others maybe." She looked away.
Blanc giggled with a smile. "That sounds odd. But nice, to want to do something after the dust settles. You will get your convention, as for me. I'll get to make my novel."
Noire looked at her in disbelief. "You want to make a novel."
A hint of red came to Blanc's cheeks. Choosing not to say anything.
Noire looked at the front, they are close to the ravine. She frowned.
"Time to fly." She gave all the power to Cavaliere as possible.
Blanc pressed the mushroom button, going fast as possible.
The goddesses didn't scream but braced for their stunt to work. Or they become jelly in the gorge. The two went off the ridge.
Noire used the burner on her t-vehicle. It helped in propelling her across the gorge. But what about Blanc? She doesn't have that.
The group stopped and could see the pair going over the gorge. Which means they could die crashing into the bottom.
But the one with the motorcycle seems to be making it. As the kart, it was going to fall.
Only to everyone's surprise. A glider popped out. Giving it a better chance to make it, as it glided to the other side.
Also, that gilder had a picture of a blue-haired woman giving a smile.
Blanc could see the edge of the other side. She clenched her teeth. Thankfully, Karuta let her know about the super gilder that it has. Helping her get across places.
The two landed on the other side with a winch, as it was a rough landing.
But didn't stop there, they blasted off.
Putting the distance between them and their attackers even more.
In K-city, the place where its share crystal is housed.
The supervisor is checking on the power systems, the crystal changed color and seemed to be giving different readings.
Which could mean a lot of problems for them.
"Supervisor Kei," a tech called her over.
Kei looked at him with her blue-gray eyes. She has a black suit on her slender frame. Still, she wasn't that short. She has short grey hair.
Kei walked over, and she nodded.
The tech brought up the readings, to see a connection that she hasn't seen before. She has seen most of them. But this one, she hasn't seen it.
She looked at him. "Is that right? I haven't seen that connection before."
The tech nodded in understanding. "I also haven't seen it before. I just found it, when checking if we have any lines lost. Only this one so far."
Kei narrowed her eyes. She looked over the other connections, they all seem safe.
But a new one has popped up. She had the tech move over, which he did, she could see it was solid.
But no telling where it leads to.
Could it be, Kei thought, her eyes narrowed. Is that going to the goddess who claimed the sharicte?
She has heard that a goddess is connected to their share crystal, which seemed to happen.
She tried to find where it is going but was blocked. She gasped at being blocked and, then tried another thing: pulling the plug into it. She needed to see what would happen.
Only for the whole section where the console is to lose power.
"It pulled the power," Kei muttered in shock. She looked at the crystal, while this might not damage the consoles, besides losing data. It did show the share crystal is protecting the goddess.
Kei stood to look at the tech. "For now, check on the lines that power our city, once you've restored power to the section. With checking the levels, as per usual."
The tech nodded and went back to work.
Kei walked away, going to her office. Trying not to run at finding out about what she learned.
Once there, make sure she is alone with no one to listen in. She got her cell phone and called. Sitting at her desk.
It had the latest computer with a few folders there. All tidy in their places.
Soon, the other supervisor answered, "Yes, Kei."
"Mina, did you know about a hidden connection to our sharicite?" She asked the woman, her tone cold.
A gasp came from Mina. "What are you talking about? I … wait a second."
Kei heard typing, Mina could be in her office.
A silent curse came from the woman. "When did that get in there? I did see we were using share as normal. But apart it of was going somewhere else."
Kei clicked her tongue, it would seem someone was leeching off them.
"First goddesses come back, monsters are changing, and now this. What in the hell is going on?" Kei started working on her computer, seeing if she could get any info on this line.
"Kei, I don't like this," Mina's voice had fear in it. "I don't know if you heard, but they sent a task force to kill the goddesses."
Kei's blood froze, she didn't hear of that. That order must have been from somewhere else. "Then, are they dead?"
Mina was about to answer but Kei slapped her head.
"They aren't," Kei replied before Mina could say anything. "The way our share crystal acted, it must've been her claiming it. She needed that power to survive."
"Right," Mina agreed. "Only now, things have changed for the rulers."
Kei leaned back in her chair. Mina is right.
Not only was the share crystal claimed by a goddess. If anything happened to them, the crystal would break. Leading to what happened before.
When the previous goddess died, they lost the share crystal and power. While they did have other means to power their city.
They still used share energy. Given it has more of a kick. With being a little easier, long as the goddess worked to keep the faith of her people. Which has been seen, but only by people old enough to know it.
Kei frowned, her memories did remember one goddess who caused some problems.
"Mina, I think we need to find them soon," Kei replied tightly.
"I know we were planning on that, but what is making you want to act so hasty?" Mina asked, knowing how Kei is.
Kei likes to get information and act on it, which is why she has her job. She is good at collecting information and using it.
Kei looked around. "Call this a gut feeling, but I wonder if one goddess is still around," she muttered to Mina.
Mina gasped. "You're not thinking those rumors of a goddess is alive somewhere."
Kei growled. "Sure we have 'human rulers', but they knew how to subdue a sharicite, with finding we've been giving share energy to a different place. While anyone could use it to power their home. But why would they hide it?"
Mina gulped. "Unless a goddess is using it to power herself."
Kei may not know how a goddess could use her share. But from what she could remember, they need it to transform and stay young, or what has been said about that.
"Then you think," Mina's voice shivered. "That the person who faced the new goddess in S-city could have been a goddess."
Kei grunted. "That is possible. A goddess can sense another of their kind, transformed or not. It could have been possible for the new one in S-city to be found by an old one."
"Then," Mina replied. "Why would she attack another? Sure goddesses didn't get along with each other at times. But, they wouldn't fight each other unless provoked."
Kei could understand the confusion, the previous goddess seemed to have reservations about the others. But joined forces against the threat.
It was too much for them to handle on their own.
"First thing, we find them with getting the supervisor of S-city on our side. She could give us some clues as to what happened there. We need information, ASAP." Kei checked on things.
Thankfully, a little time off is coming soon. Given how much she worked.
She stockpiled too many hours on paid leave. So, in two days. She'll be off if no problems arise.
Which could, but she'll make things covered to prevent that.
"Okay, I'm also in a position to be off," Mina replied.
Kei raised a brow. "How did you pull that?"
Mina sighed. "I usually take off this time of year, Kei. It's a personal matter as to why I'm doing it."
While Kei is curious, she won't pry. "Fine, but be quiet on this as possible. The rulers will be desperate to find them. Maybe not kill them now, as they are connected to the sharicite. But, that doesn't mean they won't try something with them."
Mina agreed and hang up.
Kei is scared of the course she is taking. But she wanted to meet the new goddess, see if it was the old one reborn. As it was because of her, she wanted to take this job.
In some ways honor her for what she did.
"When we should be governing ourselves. We still are under the rule of a goddess. Only not knowing it, which isn't right. We have a right to know who rules us, with knowing our history. This goddess had no right in taking that." Kei did go with the current order, but only because it seemed things are okay.
But with this information, how much are they in the dark? She knew something wasn't right, maybe that is why this goddess was created.
Because people are sick of being forced to be something they don't want. Forgetting their former goddess who wanted them to be able to choose what they wanted.
Only for that to be stomped on by a group that is helping a goddess.
For what, she needs to find out. As they have a right to know what threat is coming.
In a room, the place has various computers and monitors that are giving information. A lone female isn't happy.
Her plans are in jeopardy. All by other goddesses.
"Those upstarts," she growled. "Why did they have to be created? I may have underestimated those crystals."
While she shouldn't have told the trio how to revive a sharcite, it was necessary.
After the fallout of her fight with The Madness, she was the only one left standing in the fight. Weakened from it, her followers abandoned her.
After what she had done for them, it filled her with rage still to this day. But, she will once and for all finish that monster.
As it's entrusted to her. As the survivor of that fight, with the other goddesses of that time leaving it up to her.
Not some young whipper snappers who have just been born.
Already waves have been made from the rumors of them. That black-haired one is the most obvious.
But, some whispers of the C-city one have started. Given how people heard of the share-making something these past few months.
That and her fight with the one in S-city acted as a catalyst.
If they are exposed, questions will be asked about why new goddesses are around. This could lead to her being discovered, and it wasn't time for her debut.
That needed time, but things are spiraling out of control.
The containment field that is holding down the Madness is weakening. Sure getting borrowed share energy might not be the best.
But it should have held better.
While she won't get more out of C-city and K-city, given those sharcites are protected now.
A defense mechanism of a goddess, from anything to take her power. Whether it be foreign or domestic, it will only give its power to the goddess and her followers.
Only when they are claimed by a goddess. Which is why they tried to get them killed before they did that. Only now, two are roaming around, which could be a threat to her.
As for the third, she should have finished her. Only being seen and getting the help that one got away. But, it seemed she went into hiding some hole.
While it couldn't be a problem now, the thing is. Once she hears of the others, it could rally her. Along with joining forces with the others.
Then what, they aren't to be trusted. She was going to rant but stopped.
This wasn't the time for those thoughts.
She needed to keep that thing under lock and key. But, she is might be past that point.
A smirk came to her face. "If that thing breaks out, I'm ready for it. After all, I didn't prepare these past few years for nothing."
While she has lost two lines of share. She did think ahead and made backup batteries that would collect share over the years. As she doesn't use it much as a running city.
That should hold with S-city helping. But, she'll need to find that third goddess again.
Long as she is still around, that share crystal could be claimed by her.
Then, she needs to take care of the other two. They won't steal her spotlight.
No sire.
Another room is best described as a prison. As there are wires leading to a cell. Instead of bars, white light with a hint orange acted as the means to keep the person in there.
The person seemed female with a slender build her long hair is brown with black streaks.
Her yellow eyes looked out of her cell. She smirked, showing her sharp and pointed teeth.
"So," she said, her voice had an echo to it. "They've awoken, I was hoping they would."
She chuckled with glee. She has been stuck in this prison for the past two decades. While it has been boring, to say the least.
She was patiently waiting to see what her so-called keeper would do. Hoping to see what that goddess cooked up. In some ways, it has been comical.
Thinking that erasing history would help but in her opinion.
It won't, unless a few more decades if lucky. And she wasn't going to wait that long.
No, she's played this waiting game long enough.
She could have made a move sooner, but something caught her attention.
A trio of goddesses has been created. Just a few months ago.
"Fresh out of the oven," she snickered darkly. "To think they should have known that it will take a lot to stop a goddess from being made. After all."
She laughed at the stupidity of this course.
"They forget why they are made. It is because the people wanted them, to protect them. Not treat them as tools. You think that goddess would have 'learned' her lesson, but." She chuckled. "Where would the fun be without a 'few idiots' to watch."
She would love to fight her capturer, but the two that have seen her. She can't help but feel they are more of a challenge.
From what she could get, they trained, learned, and even stuck their necks out.
Again with that band of idiots provoking them. If they left them alone, there was a chance they would have stayed out of it. Become humans to live their days as such.
But no. Instead force them to fight back.
Forcing them to become goddesses.
She might have a hand in that, once seeing them take out a few monsters she helped.
To think they did that good when not a full goddess. Still in their human form.
That screams potential.
"I could wait a little longer," she replied, her eyes glowing yellow with a red slit. "But they better hurry. They would miss the fun. Also, if I could see it. Those two see who my warden is." She laughed.
Not only is a goddess behind the scenes running things, but she is with what she had done. If she could watch that with some bonbons, it would be perfect.
Then fight her, and crush that goddess with the others.
She laughed while her left hand rose. It was a human hand, but the fingers changed into a set of wicked-looking claws.
She balled her fist. An unhinged laugh filled the room.
Full of joy at the battle that waited for her. At least, she'll get to fight one goddess. Whether it be an old goddess or the 'next gen' ones. She can't wait to find out.
That is worth the wait a little more. After all, she has fought all of the generations of goddesses to be created.
In some sense, she is the reason why they were made in the first place.
A/N Read and review.