Chapter 18 - Welcome to Leanbox

Day 30

Lowee - streets

"…Looks like information has dried up once again. I don't think we'll find anything more if we stick around here." IF informed the party.

After finding a Lowee Jewel Core Fragment, the party continued their search for more information about monsters and the other Fragments. However, for the past few days, they've been coming up dry when it comes to info, and everything was starting to get a bit stale.

"So, we should move to Leanbox? From what I remember from the schedule, today's a Terraportation day between the two." Soren asked.

"That's sounds like a good idea." Compa replied.

"Uh huh. Not to mention my tushie is starting to get numb from the constant cold." Neptune added.

"…Let's just hurry already. The sun's gonna set in an hour or so, and I don't want to travel in the dark more than it is necessary." IF said, before leading the party to the Sky Harbor.

Leanbox - Sky Harbor

"Ooh wow, everything's so green, and stuff! So green and leafy."

After arriving at Leanbox, everyone took the time to take in the sights, and they saw a lot of nature. A lot of nature. Neptune seemed to mention it a lot, something that IF had to comment.

"Well, it is called the 'Land of Green Pastures' for a reason Nep."

"Not to mention the feeling of this land is so different from the others. It's…so peaceful." Compa commented.

"Still, it feels like we've just stepped back in time. The buildings look so, past looking…?" Soren added, not sure how to describe things.

"Close enough. Anyway, we should get to the nearest hotel and check in. We'll start our info search tomorrow." IF told them, and went for a map so she could find the nearest hotel.

In the end, the party had to get two rooms, as the hotel they found only had doubles. Compa and Neptune in one, and IF and Soren in another.

? - Dreamscape

"Ummmph…hmm? Where am I? Wasn't I sleeping?"

'Oh my, it's been awhile since I heard your voice directly, Soren.'

"Wha-? Histoire, is that you?"

'Fufufu, why yes. I'm glad to see that you are safe, and that your progress with the Jewel Core Fragments has been coming along nicely, if I may add.'

"It's the only area we've had luck in. Still, I gotta ask, what exactly are these Jewel Cores? I assume there important since you asked me to collect them."

'…I…cannot say at the moment. All I can tell you is that the Jewel Cores are very important to the Goddesses, even if they don't know it themselves, and it is that reason Arfoire scattered them across the landmasses.'

"Again with this Arfoire. Coupled with rumors about this Overlord, things have been getting out of control these past few months…"

'…'

"…Anyway, I know it's pretty odd of me to ask, but have you heard about my sister Arf?"

'The Fiery Maiden? Only from following your journey through the Tome. I'm sorry, but I don't know anything else, and I would've have looked myself if I was unsealed. Though it would've taken three days…'

"…Nevermind then. By the way, is there anything else you can tell me that can help?"

'…'

"Histoire?"

'…Oh, I'm sorry Soren. I'm showing Neptune a recent memory of Arfoire confronting me through a dream, so I'm a bit preoccupied.'

"Are you sure you should be talking to me if you're doing something?"

'It will be fine. Neptune will wake up when the memory's finished.'

"Okay… So, can you tell me anything that can help us find either the Key Fragments or Jewel Core Fragments?"

'Well, all I can say is that each Key Fragment is guarded by the same monster species that Neptune and Compa fought on Planeptune. As for the Jewel Core Fragments, they've been scattered over their respective landmasses. Also, about Arfoire…'

"Yes?"

…

"Histoire, are you there? Hey…!"

…

"Did the connection break? Ugh, damnit!"

Leanbox - hotel

"Hey Ren, you alright? Wake up."

"Mmmph? …If, is that you?"

"Yeah, you were talking in your sleep, and from the sounds of it, it didn't sound good. You mumbled Histoire's name a few times."

Soren sat up on his bed as he gave a stretch, cracking a few bones. "Uh, yeah. And she was about to say something important too, before the connection got cut, I think. Still, I got something from her about the Key and Jewel Core Fragments."

"Cool. We'd better go get Compa and Nep. I'm so glad Compa's not in the room, she snores way too loud for my tastes."

After both of them took turns getting dressed, the two were outside when they heard sounds coming from Neptune and Compa's room. "Huh, sounds like both Neptune and Compa are awake."

When IF and Soren entered Neptune and Compa's room, IF immediately said, "You're both awake? I have Ren up, so we can-." That's when both of them noticed Neptune all over Compa making mewing sounds and IF's eye twitched. "Wh-What the hell is this pervy crap?"

"Ooh, girl-on-girl, first thing in the morning. Awesome." Soren commented with thumbs up.

"…"

*THWAK*

"Ow! Alright, alright If!"

"…Let's just leave these two alone for now. Let them work things out."

"Sure thing, I'll tell you what Histoire said over breakfast."

As Soren and IF were leaving, Compa gave out one last cry, "W-Wait! Iffy, Soren, please help! No, don't touch me there! Bad Nep-Nep! Eek!"

Day 31

Leanbox - Basilicom

"We gotta talk to the Basilicom people about monsters, right? In that case, yo!"

"Neptune, we really gotta talk about how you greet strangers."

"No biggie Ren, everything will be fine." Neptune then raised her voice. "Anyone know where strong monsters are nesting?-!"

Neptune's shout surprised the person closest to them, who was none other than Conversation. "Eh?-! Um…ah! It's you four from back in Lowee. What do you want from Leanbox's Basilicom?"

The party recognized her as well as Neptune gave Conversation a look. "Heey, you're that Evangelist from Lowee who warned us about that Overlord and stuff. What are you doing here?"

"Ah, I just transferred from Lowee yesterday. Still setting in and so forth. I haven't properly introduced myself. As you all know, I'm an Evangelist from Lowee. My name is Conversation. I travel around and spread the word of our beloved CPU. I am meant to spread faith and love for Lady White Heart throughout the landmasses. Anyway, what did you need here again?"

"We gotta find a place with strong baddies so we can get a Key Fragment and Jewel Core Fragments. Don't worry, we'll beat 'em all up real good!"

"Still going around fighting monsters I see, but a…Key Fragment…? Unfortunately, I've never heard of such a thing."

"There's no need to bother an Evangelist. I will explain if you need something from our Basilicom."

A new voice spoke up and everyone turned to see a man dressed in more elegant robes walk towards them. At the same time, Conversation gave a nod and quickly departed from the party. When he stopped in front of them, he introduced himself. "I am Yvoire, the Archbishop of Leanbox's Sanctuaries. How can I assist you four?"

Compa looked flustered at Yvoire's sudden appearance, but managed to say, "Yes, well, we'd like to know where to find monsters."

"I see. You're tourists, then? Let me give you a detailed map where the monsters are so you can avoid them." Soren couldn't help but raise an eyebrow as Yvoire went over to one of the desks and pulled out a map, then handing it to Compa. "Stay away from the marked territories. We wouldn't want such adorable girls getting hurt, even with your friend here to protect you. Have a safe trip."

Yvoire left them, leaving the party in silence before Soren asked, "Uh, so, what do we do now?"

"Tourists? Do we look like tourists? Sure we got some monster info, but…"

"Well Nep, you and Compa don't look like fighters, and the Archbishop seemed to focus on the two of you the most." IF shrugged, "Still, at least we got something. We'll check things out based on the map."

"Hmm, I think I know a place where we can get some info." Soren suggested.

"Really? Where?"

"A place that Torres told me about. One of his old comrades runs the place, and is a real info center not related to the Basilicom."

Leanbox - net café

"A net café."

"Yes If, a net café. What, were you expecting an underground fighting ring filled with unsavory characters that eyed Neptune's booty as gold or something?"

"Sorry, it's just, I was expecting another store or something of the sort."

"Well, they do sell some amazing drinks."

The party took in the net café, as Neptune looked at the high tech computers with interest. "Wow, lookie at all the computers! …But isn't Leanbox supposed to be…like oldie and stuff?"

"Heh, only in looks and customs." The party turned to see a woman in an apron waving at them. "Lady Green Heart allows a certain level of technology on her land. The only things she's strict about is weaponry and the environment, in order to maintain the title of 'Land of Green Pastures.' Word is that the Lady herself has a ton of tech for gaming purposes, which is why stuff like this is allowed."

"Wow, it's a true case of 'don't judge a book by it's cover', huh?" Compa looked at the computer near her, one that wouldn't look out of place on Planeptune.

"Isn't that the case. I heard that Lady Green Heart got angry when the Basilicom tried to limit safe technology years ago. She's pretty easygoing, but mess with what relates to her hobbies and…brrrr." The woman shook her head before giving a smile. "Well anyway, my name's Lillia, the owner of this little net café. What can I help you with?"

Soren stepped up to introduce everyone. "I'm Soren, and the girls with me are Neptune, Compa, and IF."

"Ah, so you're the ones that Torres and the others mentioned. I heard that you four are fighting monsters. I'm guessing you're here for info about the latest sightings and whatnot?"

"That's rightto! We went to the Basilicom, but all they gave us was a map for tourists!" Neptune told her.

"To be honest, you and Miss Pink Hair don't seem to be the fighting type, but I'm sure you prove that wrong everyday. Please, take a seat and browse through the forums while I whip up chocolate lattes. This one's on the house."

"Oooh, thanks a bunch Lily!"

"It's Lillia, Miss Neptune."

As Lillia went to prepare drinks, the party sat down at a table with a single computer, with IF doing the browsing. As she browsed through the forums, IF started getting irritated. "Tch, nothing much on the forums other than the usual topics. All the threads about monsters seem to say the same thing: stay away from monster infested areas."

"Hmm, how about checking out Lady Green Heart's blog? Maybe she has something to say." Compa suggested.

"I doubt it, but it's worth a shot."

IF accessed Vert's blog, and already there was an entry saying, 'Planet PR [Brief]' and she clicked on it, pressing the play button.

"Greetings. Today, I'd like to chat about the various accommodations Leanbox offers."

"After seeing all this, I wonder what else Leanbox has." Neptune wondered.

"I'm sure you all know, but the CPU of Leanbox is me, Green Heart."

"She really does sound like the easygoing type." Compa commented.

"She is…" IF nodded with a hint of a sigh.

"Leanbox is a land abundant with nature. The most beautiful in all Gamindustri."

"Now that is something that is so true. Even Planeptune's botanical gardens don't seem to compare." Soren commented.

The girls looked at him oddly and he raised his hands. "Hey, Arf dragged me to a few of them okay? I can't help but look!"

"I believe the word 'draconian' de-… No… 'archai-'… Oh! 'Medieval' describes Leanbox best. But don't judge a book by it's cover, as you will find out when you come to Leanbox."

"Ain't that the truth. I wonder what they use for power?" Neptune asked.

"From what I heard, it's mostly wind and solar power, with the former mainly lined around Leanbox's edges." IF replied.

"Here you can expect a comfortable life. Many come here to spend their retirement or raise children."

"Don't I know it. Grandpa likes coming here to relax when he has the chance."

"I highly suggest coming to Leanbox, especially if you have enough money to live a rich and comfortable life."

"Ooh, there's the money clincher."

"Shut it, Nep!"

"That's the basic rundown of my land. I'll go into more detail with my upcoming blog entries."

"I wonder what else Lady Green Heart has in mind." Compa tilted her head in thought.

"I'll see you again in the next update."

"…Well, no info about monsters." Soren slumped.

Lillia showed up with drinks on a tray when she saw the looks on each of their faces. "Having trouble finding info?"

As each party member accepted their drink, IF said, "Pretty much. Do you know anything Miss Lillia?"

"Please, just Lillia will do. As for info about monsters…may I see that map of yours?"

As IF took out the map, Neptune took a sip and said, "Eeemm! This tastes sooo good!"

"I'm glad you like it." Lillia then looked at the map before pointing at the spot labelled Remnant Tower, which had an 'x' through it. "This spot here. This is a well known monster breeding ground, so maybe you'll find something there."

"Hmm, I see. We'll go check it out after we're done, okay Nep, Compa, Ren?"

The others nodded as Lillia smiled, "Please do be safe everyone, and if you need any info that the Basilicom cannot provide, then please stop by."

Leanbox - Remnant Tower

"Huh, for an old tower, it's pretty sturdy. The only issue here is the monsters." Soren commented, slashing a monster in half.

"Just keep fighting!" IF jumped out of the way of a monster attack and countered with a lunge, spearing it between the eyes.

"Fire, fire, FIRE!" Compa kept on shooting at the monster in front of her, turning it into a beehive.

"Wow, Compa's on fire today!" Neptune shouted as she gave the monster she was fighting an uppercut before slashing down.

Fighting through monsters on the first level of the tower, all the party found were weak ones, something that Neptune found disappointing. "Ugh, again, I'm slicing junk."

"…Neptune does have a point. All we're running into are weak ones. I don't think we'll find either a Key or Jewel Core Fragment here." Soren added.

"But that doesn't mean we should just ignore the monsters!" Compa told them, "Let's clear out this floor before we go back."

The party kept on fighting monsters until they came across a large chamber with stairs leading to the next floor. When they saw that there weren't any monsters around, Neptune said, "Looks like there aren't any monsters around. Let's head back to the Basilicom…whoa!"

Neptune noticed a shadow over her and got out of the way just in time of a Lindwurm dive-bombing where she just stood a moment ago. The Lindwurm swooped back up and attempted another dive-bombing at the party.

"Tch, this is getting nowhere," The Lindwurm was moving so fast that none of the party could get a shot on it as it kept dive-bombing them. "Nep, Ren, you two transform and clip that Lindwurm's wings!"

"Gotcha/Alright!" Neptune entered HDD and Soren deployed Yukihira, flying towards the Lindwurm to catch it.

The monster proved to be very tricky to catch as it was quite fast, that Neptune and Soren nearly crashed into each other twice. Even with occasional potshots from Compa and IF weren't helping, and eventually Neptune got pissed enough that she threw her sword shouting, "You damn overgrown bird!"

The sword flew past Soren and luckily enough, hit the Lindwurm that was behind him right between the eyes, stunning it. Seeing the chance, Soren dove after the sword and grabbed it, before executing a twin slash on the Lindwurm, killing it instantly.

Seeing that it was dead, the party gathered around the Lindwurm's corpse, both Neptune and Compa looking a bit squeamish, but calm nonetheless. They resigned themselves to tolerating the corpses, seeing as they won't stop anytime soon. Soren gave Neptune's blade a few swings before giving it back to Neptune. "Interesting. Every time you transform, whatever sword your wielding changes into that particular blade."

"Not sure how it works myself." Neptune commented, "Anyway, what do we do now?"

"Let's get out of here first. We'll decide what to do next when we're out in the open."

The others nodded at IF's suggestion and started backtracking to the entrance. Little did they know, their entire fight was watched by another invisible drone, and it few towards the stairs when the party left the chamber.

Omake: Why Hyperdimension Neptunia Mk2 is rated M.

Trick the Hard: Come, come and sit on daddy's lap. We'll have fun exploring each other!

Ram: Eww, get this guy away from me!

Rom: Disgusting...

Neptune: Nasty. Ren, do something!

Soren: Me? What can I do?

Neptune: You're a guy, so that thing won't be interested in you!

Soren: Ugh, where's Blanc when you need her...

Trick the Hard: Mmmm, the height of ecstasy, licking a nubile maiden's wounds!

Ram: Ahh, he's trying to lick me! Big Bro Ren, do something!

Rom: Please help, Big Bro...

Soren: ... (Points sword threateningly at Trick) Alright you motherf&*#$g lolicon, step away from the twins, and I'll make your asskicking as painless as possible.

Really, Mk2 may improve on some things, but there's always a trade off somewhere. Only in this case, the perversity goes up along with gameplay. Oh, and this scene is not canon to HIN Mk2, just so ya know.