Noire sat in her room, a contemplative silence enveloping her. Recent events had sparked a fire of curiosity within her, forcing her to confront truths she'd previously ignored. Thanks to Neptune's relentless enthusiasm and her involvement in their investigation, the gravity of Lastation's environmental crisis had finally sunk in.
"I'm finally getting to know what's going on at Lastation," she muttered, a hint of frustration coloring her voice. "I hate to admit that it's because of Neptune and her friends, though..."
Despite her initial resistance, Noire couldn't deny a newfound respect for the CPUs. While their methods might be unconventional, their dedication to helping others resonated with her.
A frown creased her brow. "Spurring business growth makes sense, and I would have said so myself," she conceded. "But at the risk of destroying the environment? It's madness! If no one can live here, it defeats all purpose."
Her gaze drifted towards the window, where the last rays of the setting sun painted the sky in vibrant hues. "Avenir… I wonder what they're really planning?"
Thoughts of the looming Console War cast a shadow over her newfound resolve. "There's no time to get back to that, although I worry that Xoruxshy would be dragged into it by the other CPUs, regardless of whether or not she wants to fight for the title of True Goddess."
A sigh escaped her lips as she acknowledged a truth she no longer wished to deny. "And as much as I don't want to admit it, Neptune isn't a bad person..."
The sound of the door creaking open made her head snap up. Neptune, a wide grin plastered on her face, bounded into the room.
"Noire! Let's go eat some pudding!" she declared, her voice brimming with excitement.
Noire blinked, caught off guard by the sudden invitation. "Wha-?!"
"Deja vu? Whoops, did I surprise you? Sorry there," Neptune chuckled sheepishly.
Noire's initial irritation melted away, replaced by a hint of amusement. "Why, you…!" She trailed off, unsure of how to respond.
Unfazed, Neptune pressed on, holding up a container. "Ah, I brought some pudding, so I was wondering if you'd eat some with me."
Noire hesitated, her usual stoic demeanor faltering. "I'm sorry… I'm just not in the mood."
Neptune's smile faltered for a moment, a flicker of disappointment crossing her features. "Whaaaat?! You too, Noire?! Iffy and Compa said no, and now you, and Xoruxshy already ate her pudding. Now who am I supposed to eat with?!"
Noire studied Neptune, a strange warmth blooming in her chest. This bubbly, carefree CPU had somehow managed to breach her carefully constructed walls.
"How about yourself?" she offered, a hint of a challenge in her voice.
Neptune's face lit up brighter than the setting sun. "You still don't get it, do you, Noire?! Pudding tastes better eating with others. Like, a lot better!"
Noire averted her gaze, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks. "Well even so, I won't eat before I sleep. I'll get fat. I'm sleepy too."
"Aww…" Neptune's shoulders slumped in disappointment.
Noire, unable to bear her crestfallen expression, spoke impulsively. "…I'm sorry."
"Well, don't worry. I guess it's my fault for asking so late!" Neptune chirped, forcing a smile.
Despite her words, a sense of longing lingered in the air. Noire broke the silence, a newfound resolve evident in her voice.
"…" She trailed off, then met Neptune's gaze directly. "…Well…"
Sensing a shift, Neptune perked up. "Hm?"
"If you REALLY want to eat with me, then why not?" Noire offered, the hint of a challenge replaced by a tentative invitation.
Neptune's eyes widened in surprise, then lit up with joy. "Really?!" she exclaimed, practically vibrating with excitement.
"Like I said, if you REALLY want to eat with me," Noire repeated, a hint of a smirk playing on her lips.
"Yay! I love ya, Noire! I knew you'd come through!" Neptune squealed, launching herself at Noire in a bone-crushing hug.
"Huh?! Wait, stop hugging me!" Noire protested, flustered yet strangely not displeased by the display of affection.
Location: Lastation Park
The park bustled with activity as children chased pigeons and couples strolled hand-in-hand. Neptune, her eyes sparkling with delight, led the way towards a secluded bench nestled beneath a sprawling oak tree.
"Hey, look, it's Xoruxshy," Neptune pointed towards a figure sitting meditatively at the far end of the park. "I wonder what she's doing out here. Meditating, maybe?"
Noire squinted, following Neptune's gaze. Xoruxshy, clad in her usual black bodysuit, sat perfectly still, her eyes closed in concentration.
"Actually, I just finished," Xoruxshy spoke up, her voice appearing from behind them without a hint of warning. "After making a late-night pit stop to my Basilicom's Forge to get an updated weapon set from Tails. Behold, the West Wind Mirage and the…" she flourished a weapon that resembled a blaster inspired by Dogoo-Man, "...the Dogoo-Man Blaster!"
Noire examined the weapons with a hint of curiosity. "Cool, the West Wind Mirage looks even more intricate than the Monster Mirage. So, Neptune, why do we have to be outside to eat the pudding?"
Neptune, oblivious to Noire's surprise, grinned mischievously. "Heh heh. You may not know, but pudding tastes better outside, too! See! And the sky is nice and pretty!" she gestured towards the vibrant hues of the setting sun painting the clouds.
Noire found herself captivated by the beauty of the scene, a stark contrast to the harsh industrial landscape of Lastation. "Yes..." she admitted softly, "it's so beautiful..."
A pang of guilt washed over her as she remembered her earlier refusal. "About the last time I didn't eat with you... I'm sorry."
"Oh, don't worry about it!" Neptune chirped, her usual cheerfulness quickly returning. "I was kind of pushy, too. And anyway, I'm eating with you now, so everything is good!"
The weight of unspoken words hung heavy in the air. Noire, determined to clear the air, spoke in a hesitant voice. "Neptune... Um, can I ask you something?"
"Sure, as long as you don't ask what my account balance is," Neptune joked, her voice laced with a playful smile.
Noire blushed slightly. "If you were a CPU…what would you think of Lastation? Between the Land and the Console War, which would you choose?"
Neptune tilted her head, her brow furrowed in thought. "Hmmm... I'm not a CPU, so I'm not really sure."
Noire pressed on, her voice softer now. "I'm just hypothetically asking 'what if'..."
Neptune contemplated the question for a moment, then a bright smile lit up her face. "Hmmm... I would like to help whoever is in front of me first. And, what's that again? The Console War? Even if that goes bad... ...I'm more happy seeing the people's faces who I saved! ...And pudding."
A soft chuckle escaped Xoruxshy from her position under the tree.
Noire found herself staring at Neptune, a newfound respect blossoming in her heart. This naive, carefree CPU possessed a genuine desire to help others, a stark contrast to the cutthroat world of the CPUs she had known.
"Neptune..." Noire began, unsure of how to express her newfound feelings.
"Hm?" Neptune tilted her head in question.
"Thank you..." Noire murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. A silent acknowledgment of the unexpected friendship that was blooming. (Thinking to herself) "Lastation or the Console War. My answer was always there in front of me..."
Suddenly, a mischievous glint appeared in Xoruxshy's eyes. Reaching into her pocket, she produced a small, intricate charm. It depicted two figures, one black and one purple, holding bowls of pudding and beaming with joy.
"For you, Noire," Xoruxshy declared, her voice warm. "A little token of our newfound friendship."
Noire stared at the charm, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was hope for Lastation after all.
The Next Day: Lastation Inn
The morning sun filtered through the dusty window panes of the Lastation Inn, bathing the room in a warm glow. Inside, the CPUs and their allies bustled about, preparing for their second visit to Avenir.
"Okay, so we'll go to Avenir again today," IF declared, her voice laced with determination. "You ready?"
Noire, clad in her usual black attire, straightened her shoulders and nodded curtly. "Yes. All ready."
Neptune, bouncing with her usual infectious enthusiasm, chimed in, "I'm all-righty, righty! How about you Millie?"
Xoruxshy, her expression serious, offered a reassuring nod. "I'm ready in case Avenir tries anything. I already gave Meggy last night's recording of Ganache in case anything happens. And I have another set of recording equipment hidden on me just in case."
Compa, ever the observer, couldn't help but comment on the newfound camaraderie. "Noire, Nep-Nep, and Millie are such good friends now," she chirped, a playful smile on her face.
Noire blushed furiously, her usual stoic demeanor momentarily cracking. "I-I'm not that much of a friend with Neptune, you know?" she stammered.
Neptune, oblivious to Noire's flustered state, nudged her playfully. "Oh come now, Noire. You shy little you."
Just then, the door creaked open and Chian, the ever-energetic inventor, burst into the room.
"Oh! It's you girls," she exclaimed, wiping a smudge of grease from her forehead. "Perfect timing! Sorry to be abrupt here, but can you test a weapon again for me?"
Neptune's eyes widened in surprise. "Wait... You already revised the weapon?!"
IF, ever the pragmatist, echoed Neptune's sentiment. "That's mighty fast to finish it up in a couple days."
Chian chuckled sheepishly. "Yeah. Your feedback kept me up all night. Pretty exciting data. If you can do it on the side with Avenir's work, I'd appreciate it."
Understanding dawned on IF's face. "All right. Not a problem."
Chian grinned, relieved. "Okay then. Here you go."
A holographic image materialized in mid-air, displaying a sleek, futuristic weapon. Below it, a message appeared: "Armas Test Model 1.01 received."
Location: Outside Avenir Storage No. 3
Neptune: And so, Nep and family have arrived at a closed factory for Avenir's work!
Noire: *Sigh* You're happy, as usual.
Neptune: Hey, when you don't have your memory, you can do whatever you want!
Noire: I sometimes admire your free nature... In any case, what's this about being called to this kind of place?
(Xoruxshy is replaced with her illusion self while she sets up a recording area and places a camera to record before returning and dispelling her illusion, making it seem like nothing occurred)
Ganache: It's been a while, folks, I'd like to have work done again from you.
Neptune: Hiya there! You must work a lot. Don't get burned out, you hear?
Ganache: Do I look that busy? I've been taking my breaks quite liberally.
Compa: I wish I could take breaks when I want, too.
Ganache: Well, most of our work is handled by machines, so things are easy. Now, getting back to business. Let's get right into the subject. As you can see, it has been years since this facility was in operation.
IF: So what are we doing here?
Ganache: There is a certain item we have not recovered since the closure. We want you to find it and bring it back to us.
Neptune: Is that it? Wow, it sounds even easier than before.
Ganache: It does, doesn't it? Well on the contrary, there's monsters there now.
IF: I see. So you need us to go in and take care of that, too. So, what's this thing we need to recover? It sounds pretty important.
Ganache: It is a certain ore. We call it the "Lastelite." Just 1 gram holds energy to power a game console for ten thousand years. The excavation of it is difficult, so we'd like to recover what we have.
IF: I've...never heard of such an ore before.
Noire: "Lastelite"...I've never heard of it, either.
IF: If it's that great, I would at least know about it...
Ganache: Well, of course, we hold a monopoly of this ore. We did not disclose it for the sake of holding full control of it.
Neptune: Well, if it's that super, do you mind giving us a small wee bit?
IF: Hey, Nep, no fooling around now.
Neptune: But, Iffy! It can run game consoles for 10,000 years! It's like the magic power we gamers were looking for all our lives!
Ganache: Well if you would like some, I can certainly spare a small bit.
Neptune: Really?!
Ganache: Yes. We were able to work efficiently because of your work the last time. As long as you keep this a secret, I don't see any harm sharing a bit.
Neptune: Yay! I thought Avenir was kind of bleh, but Ganache saved the day!
Ganache: I'm happy to know that. Now, we don't want to waste time here. Please take care of the order.
Neptune: Okay! Leave it to Captain Nep and her friendly crew!
IF: Sure, Captain. Lead us to the depths of the ocean...
(They go inside and are immediately locked in)
Noire: What?!
IF: Why did the entrance close behind us?! Ganache, what's going on?!
(Xoruxshy started recording as soon as they were locked in)
Ganache: Oh, my bad, I must have pressed something. ...Well, that's not quite true. I shut it for my convenience. I'd like to ask you all to satisfy the hunger of all the monsters there.
Compa: Wh-What do you mean?!
Neptune: Hey! What?! Why?! I'm not gonna go get your precious ore if you do this!
Xoruxshy: There is no ore, Neptune!
Ganache: Your CPU friend is right. I can't believe you fell for it. Of course there's no such thing as an ore that can house that much energy.
Noire: What? You tricked us?! But why!?
Ganache: I already know you are assisting Chian of Passe, as well as that orange-haired lawyer girl and her two idiot friends. I assume you were trying to get information on our exhibit plans and get Avenir shut down, no?
Neptune: Iffy! They knew all along!
IF: I can't believe they knew about this...
Ganache: We would win, regardless, it is rigged in our favor after all, but I'm the careful type, you know. You should have just dropped the case, Lady Mobius Heart. Now you'll lose the case, and your Basilicom, where we'll branch out into other universes and take over their governments. Now then, I don't have much time, so I need to go. Farewell.
IF: Wait, Ganache! (Slams her fists against the door) Tch...!
Noire: Well, looks like the way out is sealed tight.
Compa: Iffy...what's gonna happen to us?
IF: Um, well...
Noire: ...I'm sorry. This is all my fault. If I didn't suggest taking Avenir's work, this wouldn't have...
Compa: ...
Neptune: Oh, c'mon gals! What's the matter? This isn't like us! It's not like we can't get out. Let's just try to look for another way.
Noire: Neptune...
IF: Nep is right... This is a large area, so there has to be a way out. I'm not one to become monster food! Let's go! Besides we've got concrete proof of their intentions, right Xoruxshy?
Xoruxshy: Yes.
Noire, Neptune, IF, Compa, and Xoruxshy pressed deeper into the storage facility, the metallic clang of the sealed entrance a constant reminder of their predicament. The air hung heavy with dust and the faint hum of dormant machinery.
Suddenly, a guttural growl echoed through the vast hall. A hulking creature, a Poxvader – smaller than expected, barely reaching Neptune's waist – emerged from the shadows, its sickly purple skin and poisonous green markings looking all the more grotesque up close. Flanking it were two nimble Bit Customs, their antenna-like bowties twitching erratically.
"Looks like playtime is over," Neptune quipped, ever the optimist, brandishing her trusty sword.
"Don't let your guard down, Neptune," IF cautioned, her hand instinctively reaching for her weapon.
Compa whimpered, clinging to IF's arm.
Noire, her expression resolute, unsheathed her blade. "We can handle this."
With a flourish, Xoruxshy stepped forward. Her usual calm demeanor held a steely glint in her eyes. In her hand, a weapon materialized – the sleek, silver form of the West Wind Mirage.
The Poxvader lumbered towards them, its maw dripping with a sickly green venom. In a swift movement, Xoruxshy unleashed her new technique – the Rasenshuriken. A swirling vortex of wind energy erupted from the West Wind Mirage, resembling a giant blue shuriken. It sliced through the air with a sharp whistle, carving a path straight towards the Poxvader.
The Poxvader roared in surprise as the Rasenshuriken connected with its chest, sending it staggering back. The wind energy ripped through its purple hide, leaving behind a trail of glowing gashes.
Seeing their leader falter, the Bit Customs zipped forward, their tiny bodies crackling with electric energy. Xoruxshy, with a practiced flick of her wrist, switched weapons, replacing the West Wind Mirage with the Dogoo-Man Blaster.
With a playful grin, she aimed at the closest Bit Custom and fired. A pink projectile, shaped like a heart with googly eyes, blasted out and slammed into the Bit Custom. Instead of exploding, the Bit Custom glowed pink for a moment before wobbling erratically.
Its once menacing buzz had turned into a comical gurgle. The second Bit Custom, now coated in a similar pink goo, wobbled towards its comrade, bumping into it with a cartoonish "boing."
Noire seized the opportunity. With a powerful lunge, she sliced through the weakened Poxvader, its poisonous form dissolving into pixels. Neptune, wielding her sword with surprising agility, whacked the now-dizzy Bit Customs with a series of playful swats.
Compa, emboldened by the turn of events, unleashed a wave of healing energy, invigorating her companions.
The battle was over, leaving behind a trail of shimmering pixels and a pair of very wobbly Bit Customs, still bouncing off the walls in a comical display.
As they regrouped, IF retrieved the dropped items – a Mal Antenna from the Poxvader and an Illegal Circuit from the Bit Custom.
"Well, that was unexpected," IF remarked, raising an eyebrow at the wobbling Bit Customs. "Never seen an attack turn enemies into bouncy balls before."
Neptune giggled, poking one of the Bit Customs with her sword. "It's kind of cute! Like a Jell-O mold!"
She tilted her head, her gaze locking with the wobbling Bit Custom. "Hey little guy, you alright?"
To everyone's surprise, the Bit Custom, its form still shimmering pink, let out a high-pitched chirp and blushed (somehow) a vibrant shade of magenta.
Neptune's eyes widened in delight. "Aww, you reformed! You want to come with me? I'll call you Jell-O!"
The Bit Custom wobbled once, then twice, before emitting a series of happy chirps. It zipped towards Neptune, nuzzling her outstretched hand with its spherical body.
"Well, that settles that," Neptune declared, beaming. "Looks like I have a new friend!"
Xoruxshy chuckled, holstering her weapons. "It seems the Dogoo-Man Blaster has some… interesting side effects, including the ability to create new allies."
Noire, a hint of a smile gracing her lips, surveyed the scene. Jell-O, the wobbly Bit Custom, buzzed happily around Neptune's head. "Let's move on," she said.
A Few Minutes Later…
Compa: Aaah... There's so many monsters here...
Neptune: They just keep on spawning like some military game!
IF: Odd... Even if this is a monster's nest, this is way too many.
Xoruxshy: Do you think another one of those Enemy Discs is here?
Noire: Or could it be possible Avenir gathered them here to finish us?
IF: Even if that was the case, how? How can you herd monsters of this number? No, Xoruxshy's theory makes the most sense.
Noire: Well, I guess so...
Neptune: Hey, Iffy. Look what I found! This isn't what I think it is, is it?
IF: This is it! The Enemy Disc! Where did you get it?!
Neptune: Oh, I found it in that room. Do I get a prize for finding it?! I'll take...ohhh... 10 puddings!
IF: Um, no.
Noire: What are you three talking about? What's this enemy disc?
IF: This looks like a normal disc, right? Well, it's a monster generator.
Noire: What?! Seriously?! If so, that's an amazing discovery!
Compa: Is it really that amazing?
Noire: Yes. It's been three years since monsters started to appear. Each Land is trying to figure out the source, but none found one as of yet.
Neptune: If we disclose this, then we could be famous?! Can you imagine all the paparazzi storming in for picture shots and stuff?! We'll be rich! I'll make a pool full of pudding! Mmm...pudding...
Compa: Nep-Nep, you might want to wipe that drool from your mouth...
Noire: Did you let Lastation's CPU...no, the Basilicom know?
IF: We were going to, but we were pretty much kicked out without a chance.
Noire: I see...
Neptune: Iffy, what should we do with it? I can crush it in slow-mo if you'd like.
IF: This isn't a music video or anything... Let's just hurry and break it.
(Monsters appear from the disc)
IF: Oh, how cliche. Monsters appear just when we're going to break it.
Neptune: See, Iffy? What you said prior must have triggered a flag!
(More monsters appear from the disc)
Neptune: Oh great! Now we got some other odd-looking ones here! Jell-O, you go and hide! (Jell-O beeps in understanding and leaves the battle area)
Noire: This is going to be a pain handling all of them..
Compa: Nep-Nep! Millie! Now's the time to transform!
Neptune: Okay! Leave it to us!
Xoruxshy: Time to show these fools what it means to be INFINITE! (Transforms into her Phantom Thief HDD Form, Mobius Heart, as Neptune turns into Purple Heart)
Purple Heart: I'm going full force here!
Compa: Nep-Nep feels 100x more reliable in that form.
Purple Heart: Get ready, everyone, here they come!
The battle commenced. Purple Heart charged into the fray, her sword transformed into an even bigger sword. The Bit Customs were the first to fall, their erratic flight patterns no match for her swift strikes. The Poxvader, lumbering and slow, proved a more formidable opponent.
Meanwhile, Mobius Heart, wielding the Neo West Wind Mirage, unleashed a whirlwind of attacks. Her first special technique, the Rasenshuriken, ripped through the air, leaving a trail of glowing gashes across the R-4's metallic body.
But for the grand finale, Mobius Heart raised the Neo West Wind Mirage high. A colossal violet energy orb materialized above her, crackling with power. This was her second special technique – Gargantua Punisher.
With a mighty cry, she slammed the weapon downwards, launching the energy orb towards the R-4. It connected with a thunderous boom, engulfing the enemy in a blinding light. When the radiance subsided, all that remained were smoldering fragments.
But the battle wasn't over. With a well-timed swipe of her Keyblade, infused with the Dogoo-Man's Edge ability, Mobius Heart landed a critical blow on the remaining Poxvader. The effect was instantaneous. The Poxvader wobbled, its form shimmering pink, before inflating comically. Now it looked like a giant, pulsating Jell-O mold, bouncing harmlessly around the room.
The remaining Bit Custom, witnessing the fate of its allies, let out a high-pitched squeal and zipped away in a panic. Silence descended upon the once-chaotic battlefield.
Compa, unable to contain her laughter, pointed at the Jell-O-fied Poxvader. "I guess it got the Jelly status effect, huh?"
Purple Heart let out a triumphant cheer, "High five, Mobius!" Mobius Heart responded with a smirk, high-fiving Purple Heart with a gloved hand.
"Looks like we handled that little enemy outbreak," Mobius Heart remarked, holstering her weapon. "Now, let's destroy that disc and get out of here."
The battle won, the group surveyed the scene with a mix of amusement and relief.
IF, ever the pragmatist, furrowed her brow. "I'm surprised Lastation had a monster-infested place like this. Not a good look for them."
Neptune, her ever-optimistic spirit bouncing back, perked up. "Well, then, maybe there's a Key Fragment here! Right, Iffy?"
IF shrugged. "It's very well possible. We should keep an eye out."
Noire, silent during the fight, finally spoke, her voice laced with curiosity. "Key Fragment? What's that?"
Neptune, realizing they hadn't explained their mission, slapped her forehead playfully. "Oh right! We didn't tell you yet, Noire. Sorry about that. So..." she trailed off, noticing Noire's troubled expression.
"Have you seen one before?" Neptune prompted gently.
Noire shook her head, a strange tension settling in the room. "Never have... Why? Are you collecting these?"
"Yep!" beamed Neptune. "It's to revive Histy and save the world!"
Noire's frown deepened. "Ah...um...IF? Is she...okay?"
IF chuckled, a hint of amusement in her voice. "A little too late at birth, I suspect."
"Hey! How rude!" Neptune protested, puffing out her cheeks.
"Just kidding, Nep," IF reassured her. "We need to release a tome named Histoire – "
Before IF could finish, Noire interrupted, her voice trembling slightly. "Who is this 'Histy'...? How does this person know more than me...?"
Neptune, oblivious to the undercurrent of tension, tilted her head. "Hm? What's the matter, Noire? You got a bug in your mouth?"
Noire stammered, flustered. "Huh? Ah, no. I'm just mumbling to myself. Don't let it bother you."
The weight of the situation, the missing memories, seemed to be pressing down on Noire. Neptune, however, remained blissfully unaware.
"Oh, I thought you went nutty in the head with all the pressure, Noire," Neptune remarked flippantly. "Well, if that happens, don't worry, I'm sure a psychiatrist can help. Xoruxshy does need to see one, after all."
Noire bristled. "You're the one who needs help in the head! Although, now that I think about it, Xoruxshy's eyes do look like the eyes of someone who's seen a war and lived through it..." She sighed, frustration lacing her voice. "I can't believe how lax you're approaching all of this..."
Compa, sensing the growing tension, interjected with a nervous giggle. "You're so friendly with Nep-Nep, Noire."
Noire's cheeks flushed a brilliant crimson. "Wha?! Me? Neptune? Of course not! You've got to be kidding!"
Neptune, oblivious as ever, grinned. "SHOCKER! Ouch... I thought we were like war buddies and all. Friends above friends. Wait! Maybe your affection towards me is one notch higher...like love?!"
Before Neptune could continue her nonsensical ramblings, Xoruxshy, with a practiced flick of her wrist, bonked Neptune squarely on the head (again). This time, however, the blow had an unintended consequence. The Enemy Disc, clutched in Neptune's now-dazed hand, clattered to the ground, landing with a satisfying crack on a nearby rock.
Xoruxshy, ever the voice of reason, surveyed the shattered disc with a raised eyebrow. "Guess they're not that durable after all."
7 Battles Later
Neptune: Iffy, are we there yet? My legs feel like I got hit with the Dogoo-Man Blaster.
Compa: I'm tired, too...
IF: This again? You girls really need to exercise or something.
Xoruxshy: Maybe lay off the pudding.
Neptune: Exercise? Well, I play games, so is pushing buttons exercise?
IF: Stop being stupid and try to be more active like Noire.
Noire: Everyone, can you come here for a bit?
Neptune: That's unusual for Noire to be calling us. I wonder what's up.
IF: Kept you waiting there. What's up?
Noire: This on the wall... Isn't this the disc you showed me...?
IF: You've got to be kidding me... Two in the same location?
Xoruxshy: Ganache really must not want us to leave.
Compa: No wonder the monsters don't go away.
IF: Well, no use leaving this as is. Let's break it.
Neptune: Oh, oh, oh! Wait, Iffy! If we're going to break it, can I do it? I always wanted to break a disc, but I don't want to do that to my music CDs. But if it's this, then I can have fun breaking it.
IF: This isn't supposed to be "fun," you know.
Neptune: Yeah, but all work and no play makes Nep a dull girl. So c'mon, I can have fun breaking it, right?
IF: ...Sometimes I have to doubt your actions...
(The disc starts glowing)
Noire: Quit with the talking and just break it! Something may come out again!
Neptune: Um, well there's a face-looking thingy coming out...
Noire: Why are you so relaxed like that?!
Neptune: You're praising me, right? Everyone does say I'm a bit soft upstairs.
Noire: I'm not praising you and what you said isn't praise!
IF: Nep, Xoruxshy, transform! Let's just get rid of the monster and disc!
Neptune: Roger that!
Xoruxshy: Okay!
(They both transform into HDD Form)
Purple Heart: Listen to me, Iffy...
IF: What's the matter?
Purple Heart: I'll take care of the monsters, so break the disc before more come out.
IF: Wait, you said YOU wanted to break it!
Purple Heart: The transformation cooled me down a bit. I don't care about it anymore.
IF: Can you be any more random?!
Compa: Nep-Nep is so fun, even after she transforms.
Noire: This is just painful to watch…
The monster, an R4i-SDHC, was tough but not tough enough for Mobius Heart and Purple Heart, who used the Jelly Effect to their advantage, ultimately making the monster explode in a shower of jelly.
Purple Heart: Looks like it was merely a grunt that should've come in numbers.
Mobius Heart: Too easy. Piece of cake!
Compa: Yay, Nep-Nep! Yay, Millie! You were really cool!
(Purple Heart and Mobius Heart power down)
Neptune: Well, nothing that we can't handle, you know?
IF: Okay, let's break the disc already.
Neptune: Wait! I thought I said I wanted to break it. No fair!
IF: You just told me to break it a while ago.
Neptune: Well, but that's me transformed. Different persona, right?
IF: Not this again...
Neptune: So now that I'm my old self again, I wanna break the disc!
(The disc is heard snapping)
Neptune: Huh?
IF: Ah...
Noire: I broke it. No way I want to fight more of those again.
Neptune: ...
Noire: Wh-What's with that look on your face?
Neptune: Wow, Noire. Way to break the disc and the mood there.
IF: Yeah, that was...not cool.
Noire: What?! I'm in the wrong now?! You girls are the ones who were arguing!
IF: Yeah, but...
Neptune: Still, that wasn't cool, Noire. Maybe that's why you don't have friends.
Noire: I-I have a lot of friends! Okay! I'm S-O-R-R-Y. There. Satisfied?!
Compa: Oh, Iffy, you're so horrible.
IF: Heh, I kind of enjoy seeing them argue. So I just went with the flow.
Location: Other Side of Avenir Storage No. 3
Neptune: Yay, we're outside!
Xoruxshy: And I've retrieved the footage!
Compa: Being under the warm sun feels so good.
Neptune: Perfect for taking a nap!
Compa: Yes. It would be nice to relax under the sun.
IF: Hmmm...
Noire: What's the matter? You've been quiet.
IF: I was wondering what Ganache was trying to prevent us from stopping. It obviously wasn't to get rid of us, so, there must have been another reason...
Noire: (thinking: It seems like he knew who I was, so it was probably meant for me AND Xoruxshy... I have to apologize to everyone for getting them involved...)
Neptune: Oh, Iffy, you're such a worrywart. You're thinking too much.
Xoruxshy: No, she's on the right track. If I were Ganache, I would want to strike back at the competition spying on him... Shit, Chian's in danger!
Noire: What?!
Neptune: Well then, we need to get back to her, pronto!
Noire: What's he thinking, targeting civilians just for the Expo?! Now I'm really mad! I won't let Ganache or Avenir get away with this!
Neptune: Whoa, whoa, whoa! Now Noire is REALLY mad!
Xoruxshy: She's not the only one! He's planning on using whatever he's using to attack Chian, and he's tried to kill me multiple times. THAT'S IT! (Activates the Miles Electric) Tails, send down the Chaos Emeralds! It's time to show this butthole what true power is!
Compa: Noire, Millie, you're scaring me...
Noire: You girls, stop with the jibber-jabber! Let's hurry and save Chian!
(Suddenly a capsule lands in front of the girls and opens revealing the 7 Chaos Emeralds)
IF: Whoa...
(Xoruxshy absorbs the Chaos Emeralds, becoming her Super Form. Separate from her HDD Form, this form allows her to use her Chaos Powers to her full abilities. As such, Super Xoruxshy, or Super X for short does not require weapons and is powerful enough with her fists)
Compa: Yikes, my eyes!
Super X: Chaos Control! (warps them to Lastation, only to find...)
Location: Lastation
Compa: The city...it's in ruins...
Neptune: Wow, this is way too hardcore for me...
Noire: Ganache is going to pay for this!
Neptune: (notices Super X is melting the ground from the power radiating from her)
Chian: (running over) You girls! You're safe!
Meggy: (following close behind) Oh, wow. It looks like Lady Mobius Heart went Super Saiyan.
SMG4: I never thought I'd see the day. A real Super Form...
Noire: Guys, are you safe?!
Chian: Yeah, thanks to Meggy. Anyways, get out of here! It's dangerous!
Noire: What do you mean by "get out"? What about you?!
Chian: I'm going back to the Basilicom to force my way to Lady Black Heart for help. The Lady should help us, so you guys get to a safe place.
Noire: Too bad, but we're not going anywhere.
Neptune: That's right! We have a little agenda to take care of with Ganache.
Xoruxshy: Meggy, here's the last piece of evidence we need to take down Avenir. (Gives her the evidence)
Neptune: Take care of Jell-O for me! (Jell-O flies over to Chian, Meggy, and SMG4)
Noire: Don't worry, we'll take care of Avenir and anything in our way!
Location: Passe Factory Ruins
Ganache: Hahahaha! Good! Good! Killachine! Destroy! Destroy! Destroy! With the performance here, this will be sure to sell well to our "client," Now, let me add a bit more juice here. Let's see your power, Killachine!
Noire: Stop! I won't let you get away with this!
Ganache: Oh my... 1, 2, 3, 4. Well, it looks like one of you didn't make it.
Super X: (from behind) Guess again, Ganache!
Ganache: What?! Arfoire didn't mention this!
Noire: Did you seriously think those monsters would beat us?
Ganache: Oh, of course not. But they did buy some time, didn't they? See? With that time, I was able to demonstrate our new weapon.
Noire: You...fiend...!
Ganache: Fiend? Well now, even if that is so, what are you going to do about it? You lost your power to Avenir. You're weak now.
Noire: That's not true!
Ganache: Oh? But you are well aware of your lack of power, aren't you? You were away for too long. If anything, you should blame yourself. Hardly anyone reveres you in Lastation anymore. Oh, but I do appreciate you. You did make it easy to take over the Land.
Noire: ...
Ganache: Hm? Nothing to say against my logic?
Noire: So what...?
Ganache: What...?
Noire: Who cares about power and control? If you think I'm here just to mete vengeance, you're dead wrong. I'm here for the people who believe in me!
Neptune: Iffy...? Can I speak now?
Super X: Neptune, shut up before I smite you!
Ganache: Are you done speaking with your friends? I am a busy person, you know.
Noire: Let us save you time then by sending that machine into the junk heap.
Compa: Nep-Nep, transform!
Neptune: Transform! (Neptune transforms into Purple Heart)
Purple Heart: Ganache, you went way too far. Feel the pain Chian and her people endured!
Ganache: What?! That form...but, why are you here?! You're supposed to be her enemy! Why?! Same with that fox girl!
Noire: For those who believe in me, I'll do anything for them-anything! Haaaaaah! Access! (Transforms into Black Heart)
Purple Heart: Noire?! That form?!
Super X: *heh* I knew it.
Black Heart: Details later! First, let's get rid of that contraption!
Purple Heart and Black Heart focus on the legs while Super X takes to the sky. When the Killachine is stunned, Super X launches a storm of Chaos Spears that pierce the Killachine's armor. The next time it is stunned, Super X launches a huge Chaos Beam that super-heats the Killachine. The final time it is stunned, Super X teleports right in front of the Killachine and unleashes a huge Chaos Blast, destroying the Killachine.
Black Heart: With the three of us, this was easy. Hm? Where's Ganache?
Purple Heart: Seems like he got away.
Black Heart: Well, no matter. Avenir's going down anyway.
Purple Heart: Speaking of, Noire. That form of yours...
Super X: Isn't it obvious? She's Black Heart.
Purple Heart: What?!
Black Heart: I had my reasons, but first off, I'm sorry for hiding my identity. That said, thanks for your help. I couldn't have won without your help.
Purple Heart: I didn't expect Noire to be Lastation's CPU...
Compa: I'm just as surprised as when Nep-Nep transformed.
IF: I knew as well as Xoruxshy.
Black Heart: No way!
IF: Seriously... Was that your best attempt at hiding your identity?
Black Heart: Great! All this hiding my identity was for nothing, then!
Purple Heart: That's right! You know who I am, right? Can you please tell me?
Black Heart: Hmmm... What to do...?
Purple Heart: Come now! I'm serious here!
IF: Well, it's not much of a secret, so you might as well say it.
Compa: Iffy? You know who Nep-Nep is?
IF: Yes, once I saw Noire transform.
Compa: Huh? ...That means... Nep-Nep is...?!
Purple Heart: Oh, come on, now everybody knows but me?
Black Heart: All right. Neptune, you're the CPU of Planeptune. You're Purple Heart.
Purple Heart: WHAT?!
The initial shock of the battle subsided, leaving behind an exhausted team. Purple Heart, still stunned by the revelation, watched Black Heart soar away to tend to the ravaged Lastation. Xoruxshy, drained from using the Chaos Emeralds, collapsed, forcing them to return to the Nexus Station for safekeeping. The Emeralds, their purpose served, zipped back to their storage unit.
Inside the Lastation Inn, IF checked on Xoruxshy. Apparently, the young CPU had pushed her Chaos reserves beyond their limit, forcing a hibernation state as they adjusted. "She should wake up soon," Mr. Tails assured them.
Compa, ever the optimist, looked towards a snoring Neptune. "She must be really tired," she said.
A knock on the door brought them back to the present. Chian entered, surveying the damage. "Thanks to you, we've got a lot cleaned up," she said. "The rest can wait till tomorrow."
Noire, now back in her civilian form, remained silent. "What will you do with the factory?" she finally asked.
Chian sighed. "Most of it's in ruins. There's not much we can salvage."
With their work in Lastation seemingly done, IF suggested returning to Planeptune. He nudged the still-sleeping Neptune.
Suddenly, the door creaked open again, revealing Chian. "I just arrived," she explained apologetically. "Sorry to wake you, Sleeping Beauty."
Neptune, barely awake, mumbled a greeting.
"So, what's next for you?" Noire inquired.
"The Expo is right around the corner," Chian replied. "The factory needs to be operational again. In the meantime, I'll take Lady Mobius Heart's offer and work in the Basilicom's forge."
IF raised an eyebrow. "That means no work for us for a while, then?"
Chian nodded. "Sorry about that."
With a yawn, Xoruxshy stirred. "Next time I want to go Super Saiyan," she mumbled, "stop me, Iffy." She then addressed Chian. "We'll teleport with you to the Basilicom. Once there, we'll register you as a guest, then I'll show you the forge. Meggy, SMG4, and the others should be waiting."
A mischievous grin spread across Xoruxshy's face. "And I guess I'll have to ask Rotor to unclog the toilets… again."
Their arrival at the Basilicom was met with a warm welcome from the AI assistant. While Antoine registered Chian, Xoruxshy made a pointed request for Rotor's plumbing expertise. With introductions complete, Xoruxshy led Chian to the bustling forge, where Tails awaited them.
Chian's eyes widened at the sight. "Wow, this place is amazing!" she exclaimed.
Tails, ever the inventor, beamed. "Would you like to see the forge in action?"
Chian, eager to learn, readily agreed. Xoruxshy provided the materials gathered from the Thelad Sanctuary, along with the West Wind Mirage. Tails, with practiced ease, combined them with the Keyblade, reforging it into a stronger version. The Thelad Mirage - (Signature Technique: Sand Coffin Burial) now bore the marks of every enemy it had absorbed, a testament to their battles.
Tails then presented another creation: the Boxer-X Sucker Puncher, a gun capable of launching a boxing glove at Mach speed, leaving enemies dazed and disoriented.
The team reconvened in Xoruxshy's repurposed office, the air thick with the aftertaste of victory and the uncertainty of the future. Ganache remained at large, a slippery eel leaving them with little more than a trail of destruction.
Meggy, ever the strategist, laid out the plan. "The authorities are combing the Multiverse for Ganache," she explained. "Even G.U.N. got involved thanks to Shadow the Hedgehog. Your best bet is to search for Avenir's schemes in other Lands and keep hunting for Key Fragments."
Tari, the spunky engineer and gamer, piped in. "While you're out there, keep an eye out for Warp Pad locations! We've been developing a faster travel system with Tails and Clench. Warp Points could be the key."
Xoruxshy nodded, her brow furrowed. "Alright, additional objective noted."
Neptune, ever the optimist, bounced a smile at Chian. "Oh, by the way," she said, returning the young woman's weapon, "here you go!"
Chian's eyes lit up. "Thanks! Don't be strangers," she urged them. "Come back for the Expo, and I'll definitely ask for more tests."
Neptune grinned. "You bet! I can't wait to see that new factory of yours."
A shadow crossed Noire's face. "Actually, I won't be joining you."
Neptune's smile faltered. "Huh? Nowa isn't coming with us?"
"Don't call me Nowa!" Noire snapped. "It's Noire!"
Neptune stuck out her tongue playfully. "Neppy, then? How about it?"
Noire scowled. "No! Wait... why would I even...?" She trailed off, her frustration evident. "Here's the thing," she began, "There are things I need to take care of in Lastation first."
Disappointment clouded Neptune's face. "Aww, just when I thought we were going on an adventure together…"
Compa chimed in, ever the mediator. "Now, now, Nep-Nep. Let's not bother Noire. We have a Key Fragment to find in Lastation anyway, so we'll be back soon."
IF nodded with a weary sigh. "Exactly. We'll see you again."
"I'll be here waiting with open arms," Noire offered, a hint of warmth in her voice. "And, Neptune?" she added, "A word of advice. Don't go blabbering about being a CPU, alright? Each dimension has its own baggage."
IF winced. "Noire's right. We don't know what kind of trouble that could cause."
Neptune, ever the show-off, puffed out her chest. "Hey, I'm not that dumb! Just gotta save the big reveal for the climax, right?"
Meggy couldn't help but roll her eyes. "Sure, you do you."
A concerned look flickered across Noire's face. "IF…? Are you sure you'll be okay?"
IF rubbed her temples, a grimace creasing his face. "I'll be… fine. Maybe."
With farewells exchanged, the group went their separate ways. Noire shouldered the burden of rebuilding Lastation, while Chian delved back into the forge's fiery embrace. As for Meggy and her crew, it was time to return to their world of parodies. But for the remaining members, the journey continued. The mystery of Neptune's past hung heavy in the air, a puzzle piece begging to be placed. The fight for peace was far from over – they were merely at the precipice of a new chapter, filled with both peril and the promise of a long-awaited reunion.