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Planeptune, Gamindustri
Place: Planeptune City
Date: August 14, 2007
Time: 12:41 P.M.
“M-Mom… Moooooom!”The smell of iron and smoke surrounded the city along with decay. An injured girl desperately shook her mother’s arm, trying to wake her up. Red covered her knees as she shed tears of fear and sadness.“Dad! Dad! You can't sleep here!”Her messy purple bangs clung to her dirt-covered face as she reached over to the body trapped under the steel beam. The flames crackled around her as she held onto her parents’ arms. She struggled to pull them out from the collapsed rubble. “S-Someone… please! Please save my mom and daaaaaad!” she sobbed.Her wails echoed through the ruined streets covered in bodies. Her teary magenta eyes looked around for anyone to help, but there was none. None alive, that is.Dread and despair filled her chest. Her body slackened from exhaustion as she sat by her parents’ crushed corpses. She tried to wipe her tears away and ended up smearing blood against her cheeks. “H-Help… someone, help me… I’m scared,” she whimpered. Crack.“Huh?” She turned around and her eyes widened in fright. Her body trembled as she crawled closer to her parents, seeking safety. “No…”The large green lizard stomped its way to the girl with its large axe. Its armor reflected against the flickering flames as its eyes narrowed at the purple-haired girl.“Stay… Stay away!” She picked up rocks and threw them at the monster. The lizardman raised its axe and swung at the girl, but a pink laser burst through its strong armor before the strike landed. The girl blinked in surprise when the monster fell to the ground. “Huh?” The girl sat up and looked at the reptilian monster. The lizardman growled as it got back up, only to be attacked with more pink lasers. The monster finally shattered into particles and disappeared before the girl's eyes.“Thank goodness. Are you okay?”The girl heard footsteps and turned to the source to see a girl with long pink hair carrying a gun blade. Her white bodysuit was covered with dirt and dried blood. There was also a large gash on her shoulder that was still bleeding.She approached the shorter girl and dropped to her knees. “I’m so happy to see a surviving citizen.”“Y-You’re…” The girl cried out tears of relief. “You’re Lady Lilac Heart!” She immediately clung to her and pleaded, “P-Please! My mom and dad are stuck under there! Please save them!” She pointed to the rubble where her parents were trapped under.Lilac Heart turned to look at the girl’s parents with horrified blue eyes. She shed tears knowing that there was no hope. She wrapped her arms around the purple-haired girl and whimpered, “I’m sorry. I’m… I’m so sorry…”“Please, hurry! They’re hurt!”Lilac Heart tightened her embrace as guilt and despair ate away at her heart. “I’m sorry I couldn’t protect anyone. I’m sorry I’m weak.”

“L-Lady Lilac Heart?”“This is all my fault. If only I was stronger. I failed as Planeptune’s CPU. I’m… I’m so sorry…”The ground suddenly shook, causing the girl to scream. Lilac Heart held her tight as a roar ripped through the air. “LILAC HEART!!!” An explosion occurred nearby, taking down a building. “Come out and fight me, you coward!”Lilac Heart picked up the girl and ran to a nearby alley to hide. “There’s no one alive. I don’t have enough share energy to fight White Heart…”The girl moved out of Lilac Heart’s hold and questioned, “Aren’t you gonna save my mom and daaaaad?! Aren’t you gonna save everyooooone?! Why are you hiding?!”Lilac Heart looked away with shame. “This… This is too much. I can’t do it. I can’t win this war.”“You have to!” The girl cried, “You’re Lady Lilac Heart! Protector of Planeptune! You can’t give up!”Lilac Heart looked back at the girl. She could feel small faith coming from her, but it wasn’t enough to heal her and put her back in fighting condition. “What’s your name?”The girl wiped her tears away and sniffled. “I’m Plutia!”Lilac Heart smiled and reached her hand out. “You're the only one left, Plutia.”“W-What do you meeeeeean?” Plutia asked.The sounds of explosions and collapsing buildings were getting closer. Lilac Heart could feel the power slowly slipping away. She won’t last long. “I’m sorry, I couldn’t save your parents, Plutia. I couldn’t save anyone. But at least you.” Lilac Heart reached her hand out toward the girl. “If I can at least save you.”Plutia felt incredibly unpleasant. A shiver ran down her spine as she looked into Lilac Heart’s desperate blue eyes, which were filled with hollowness and senselessness. “You are Planeptune’s last hope.”Every instinct in her body told her to run, so Plutia did. She slapped Lilac Heart’s hand away and ran out of the alleyway. She ran towards her parents’ corpses where she felt most safe. “Mom, Dad!” She gripped onto their wrists and started pulling again. “Something's wrong with Lady Lilac Heart! I’m scared! Please! Please wake up! We have to run!”“Plutia.”Her body flinched as a looming shadow covered her. She glanced back to see sad blue eyes. Plutia whimpered as she pressed herself against the rubble. Lilac Heart opened her lips to speak, but instead of words, she coughed out blood. She took heavy breaths, trying to calm her pounding heart. “I don’t have long to live, Plutia, but you will survive.”Plutia shook her head. “No! I wanna be with mommy and daddy!”Lilac Heart kneeled in front of Plutia. “I’m sorry. I know it’s a lot, but you’re my last hope.” The CPU quivered as tears rolled down her cheeks. A smile stretched across her face as her pupils constricted. She summoned out a holographic screen and pulled out a small crystal. “Please. Become a CPU of Planeptune.”Plutia looked at Lilac Heart as if she was crazy. “W-What?”“Fight the war in my place! Raise Planeptune once more! You can do it, I know you can!” Lilac Heart crawled closer to Plutia and gripped her shoulders. “You’re the miracle I’ve been searching for! You will be what I couldn’t be! You will be Planeptune’s greatest ruler!”Plutia shook her head, too scared to even speak.“It’s scary, I know. It was scary for me too. Becoming a CPU. A Goddess. But it’s fate. And it must be fate that led me to find you. Now…” Lilac Heart shoved the crystal in Plutia’s face. “Eat it!”“NO!” Plutia pressed her lips shut as hot tears continued to leak from her eyes.Lilac Heart’s expression softened when she felt the girl’s faith in her disappear. She couldn’t help but feel like it was deserved. Her selfishness led her to this solution. To dump all her responsibilities onto a little girl like Plutia. “There you are.”Lilac Heart felt her body go cold. She slowly looked toward the sky to see the blue-haired CPU with sharp red eyes. “W-White Heart.”“Running away from a fight. Abandoning your people and leaving your city to be destroyed. Have you finally lost your pride as a CPU?!”Plutia felt Lilac Heart's trembling hands. Her skin was covered in cold sweat and her eyes trembled with terror. Lilac Heart was so scared that she turned pale.“I’m gonna kill you and that brat!” White Heart claimed.“Waaaaaah! Mommy! Daddy! I’m scared!!” Plutia cried out as she was overwhelmed by her own fear.Lilac Heart looked at Plutia. Even though she had given up, seeing the sight of a crying child made her want to protect her. Deep within her defeated soul, she found the courage to stand up again. Taking a deep breath, Lilac Heart stood up on wobbly legs. “D-Don’t worry, Plutia. I’ll protect you.”Plutia whimpered as she stared at the injured CPU’s back. “L-Lady… Lilac Heart?”“I’m scared… terrified. But until I die, I’m still the CPU of Planeptune!”White Heart smirked when she saw the determined look in Lilac Heart’s eyes. “So you finally got your fighting spirit back?”“Plutia, I’m sorry for trying to force my responsibilities onto you. That wasn’t nice of me. I was just confused, but you don’t have to worry now. Go hide somewhere safe.” Lilac Heart glanced back and gave a soft soothing smile. “Okay?”Plutia sniffled and nodded her head. As Lilac Heart summoned her pink wings, Plutia ran back to the alley they had been hiding in. She peeked out from the corner and watched Lilac Heart launch herself into the air.“Panzer Blade!” Lilac Heart summoned out her gun blade and swung at the White CPU.“Weak!” White Heart blocked the attack with her axe. “What kind of swing was that?! This is what a real swing is!” She swung her axe down hard.Lilac Heart used her weapon as a shield and was knocked away. “Kya!”“I’m not done yet!” White Heart flew at Lilac Heart, swinging her weapon around to gain momentum. “Zerstorung!” She swung her axe and hacked through Lilac Heart’s weapon, breaking it in two. Lilac Haert’s eyes widened in horror as her weapon shattered into data. “No…”“Gefahrlichtern!” Multiple blue spheres appeared and White Heart slammed her axe against them, shooting them all at the Planeptune CPU.Lilac Heart shouted out in anguish as she was struck directly. The hit produced smoke, and Lilac Heart plunged from the air, smashing to the ground. She felt no desire to get up. Her body was heavy and sore. She could no longer feel her limbs. Light covered her body as her transformation gave out. Her pink hair and blue eyes turned purple as her white processor suit turned into a white jacket dress with purple lining. Blood gurgled out from her lips as she stared up at the dark sky. She lifted her left hand to see her fingertips breaking into data particles. This was it. She felt no shares at all. She couldn’t save anyone. She couldn’t even save herself…  White Heart announced, “I’ll be taking your land, Lilac Heart… no, Nepgear.”And she couldn’t even save her nation. Tears welled up in her eyes as she whimpered. “I’m sorry, Histoire… I don’t think… I can make it back to you…” She closed her eyes, ready for death to take her. “Lady Lilac Heart!”Nepgear snapped her eyes open and saw Plutia running to her. “N-No… stay away…”“Oh, that brat is still here.”Plutia dropped to her knees as she shook Nepgear’s arm. “You have to get up! You have to! If you can’t fight off the baddie then who will?!” She cried out, trying to get Nepgear back up to fight.“I’m sorry… Plutia…” was all Nepgear could get out. “But I can’t fight anymore. I’m already dying.” She showed her cracked hand to the young girl.“NO!” Plutia shook her head, denying Nepgear’s death. “Who’s going to avenge my mom and dad?! I won’t let you die! You’re supposed to be the mighty Lilac Heart! You were supposed to protect us! Get up! Get up, you liar!”“She won’t be getting up anymore.” White Heart landed a little away. “Your goddess is dead.”“No!” Plutia clung to Nepgear’s arm, refusing to believe the CPU she looked up to had lost.“I’m feeling merciful. If you follow me, I’ll let you live,” White Heart offered.Plutia turned to White Heart with hatred. “I’ll never follow a murder! You killed my parents! I’ll never forgive you! NEVER!”Nepgear saw the burning hatred in Plutia’s eyes. Suddenly, the feeling of hope came back to her. She was right. This girl. This girl was her miracle. She was what Planeptune needed!White Heart clicked her tongue. “If Planeptune hadn’t been so stubborn, I wouldn’t have to destroy the entire city. Since I don’t want a rebellion, I’ll have to take you out.” She lifted her axe and pointed at Plutia. “Sorry. It’s not like I enjoy killing kids, but it’s for the future of Lowee.”“I… never wanted war!” Nepgear voiced. She glared at White Heart with the same hatred in Plutia’s eyes. “I never wanted to fight! But you… you just couldn’t stand having to share the people’s faith! You weren’t the first ever CPU, White Heart! We could have worked something out!”White heart stood motionless. “There’s only room for one CPU, Lilac Heart. This land isn't big enough for the two of us.”Nepgear strained herself to sit up. “I won’t let this be the end of me.”White Heart scoffed, “Man, you won’t die, will you? You’re just like a roach. Fine, I’ll beat the crap out of you until you disintegrate.”Nepgear smirked. “Oh… I won’t be the one you’ll be fighting.”White Heart gave her a confused look. “What?”Nepgear pounced on Plutia and slammed her good hand against her mouth. “You’ll be fighting her!”Plutia struggled against Nepgear’s strength. She felt something entering her mouth, but she refused to swallow. Her cries were muffled against Nepgear’s hand as she tried to breathe.“Swallow it, Plutia! If it’s you, I know you can save Planeptune! You have what it takes!”“What the hell are you doing?!” White Heart dashed at them with her axe.Plutia felt something wet hit her skin. When she focused on Nepgear’s face, she saw large tears and a soft smile with apologetic eyes.“Please, Plutia. I don’t want you to die. I failed my people, my nation, and myself. But, please, at least let me save you! So swallow it!” Nepgear begged. “I don’t care what happens to me as long as I can save one person! You have given up faith in me, but please, let me be your goddess one last time… please, Plutia… please, live!”“Die! Getter Ravine!” White Heart leaped above them, ready to swing her axe down.It took a lot of courage to believe in her goddess once more, but she did. She felt the sincerity in Nepgear’s words of wanting her to live. So… Plutia swallowed. She swallowed whatever Nepgear fed her and felt the pain rush through her veins. An intense aura emitted from the small girl and a blast of wind knocked everyone back. White Heart flew through the air but her wings stabilized her. Nepgear skidded across the ground and landed on her side. Plutia screamed as her body began to glow.“What did you do to her?!” White Heart demanded, but then she saw how Plutia’s form began to change. Her red eyes widened in shock. “You-! Don’t tell me you fed her a CPU Memory?!”Nepgear chuckled. “She will be the one to succeed me.”“You can’t defeat me so you’re turning her into a monster?! You’ve gone crazy, Lilac Heart! To use your own people!”Plutia’s braided hair came undone as her child form developed rapidly. Her dress tore away and a black bodysuit covered her body. Nepgear’s eyes softened. “I knew it. She’s no monster.” With her long iris hair fluttering in the wind, Nepgear gave the girl her first taste of faith. “She is my miracle. She is… Iris Heart.”What stood there once was a little girl, but now she had turned into a tall, mature woman with a developed body. Her dark pink eyes glared at the CPU in the sky as her hair whipped in the wind. With her first steps in her new form, her black heels clicked against the cracked ground.White Heart gritted her teeth in disbelief. “No way…” Nepgear happily watched as black wings formed behind Iris Heart. “Ah… I wish I could’ve shown my big sister.” White Heart gripped her weapon as she glared down at her new opponent. “There’s only one in a billion chance, so how?! How did you become a CPU?!?!”“YOU BITCH!” Iris Heart bellowed. “I’LL BEAT YOU TILL YOU’RE BLACK AND BLUE!!!” She launched off the ground and summoned her serrated sword.Nepgear’s vision started to blur when Iris Heart clashed with White Heart. Her legs have already begun to break away. She won’t last to the end of the battle. She felt slightly guilty for leaving Iris Heart without guidance, but she figured everything would be fine because she believed in her. She believed in… Nepgear took her last breath and let the wind carry her voice and body.“The CPU of Planeptune.”

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Planeptune, Gamindustri
Place: Planeptune City
Date: August 14, 2012
Time: 12:42 P.M
"Plutia..."“Plutia.”“Plutia!”The girl snapped her eyes open as she sat up. She looked around the room and saw a small trickle of light coming through her window curtains. The sound of knocking came from her door along with the cries of her name. “Plutia! Are you awake?!”Plutia yawned and replied, “Yeeeees, Histy!”When Plutia flipped her fluffy pink blanket away, she saw the plushie beside her. The purple-haired girl picked up her handmade doll and gazed at it with sleepy eyes. The sight of the doll brought a hint of bitterness, prompting her to fling the plushie across the room.The door to her bedroom opened, revealing a petite fairy dressed in purple floating in while sitting on a book. She barely had time to react when she avoided the plushie that flung her way. “My goodness!” Plutia sheepishly giggled. “Oopsies! Sooooooorry, Histy.”The small fairy fixed her hat and hovered down by the plushie. “You should treat your Nepgear doll better. Think of how your predecessor would feel if she was still here.”“But she's not,” Plutia murmured. “She left this world after turning me into one of her.”Histoire felt how the room got colder and decided to drop the subject. She flew back up and moved towards the window, opening the curtains to let the sunlight in. “It is already afternoon, Plutia. It’s time you get up.”“I knooooow.” Plutia slipped out of bed and retrieved the Nepgear doll she had thrown. Despite making the Nepgear doll, Plutia can’t help but want to punch it. She still hasn’t forgiven her all these years. Even so, after becoming a CPU, Plutia learned to respect Nepgear again as her predecessor and as once her goddess. Taking care of a nation was no joke. She wondered what Nepgear saw in her that made her think she could become Planeptune’s greatest ruler.Plutia placed the Nepgear doll on her bed and moved to her dresser. She looked down at the pink crystal that neatly rested in a glass case. The goddess gently lifted the glass and picked up the crystal.  “Hiiiiiisty!”“I’m coming.” Histoire hovered over to her side and took the crystal. She held the silver chain and helped Plutia clasp it around her neck. Plutia blinked into the mirror, watching the crystal dangle from her neck. “Thank you.”“Breakfast has already been left at the kitchen table,” Histoire informed. “Hurry, before it gets cold.”Plutia smiled as she tucked the crystal safely into her dress so it wasn’t visible. “Okay!” She quickly skipped into her bathroom to get her day started.“After your late breakfast, make sure to finish those documents today. Understand?”Plutia nodded. “I understaaaaaand.”Histoire was content. “Good. I’ll be in your office first.” The fairy left Plutia to herself and flew off. She exited the living quarters of the Basilicom and headed towards the working area. She greeted a few employees and arrived at Plutia’s office. She pushed through the large wooden doors to see a desk covered in papers. She closed the door and floated towards the purple couch and coffee table on the left side of the room. She landed on the couch and faced the large painting on the pale walls. Histoire bowed her head and smiled. “It’s been five years since you have gone, Nepgear. Plutia is shaping up to be an excellent successor. Now, if only she could get out of her sleeping habits.” Histoire stared at the portrait, expecting the still image of Nepgear to start speaking. But the happy smiling face of her old friend stayed the same along with the pose she had. A soft sigh left the fairy’s lips as she pulled a small handkerchief from her dress. She flew up to wipe the dust off the painting’s golden frame.

“Seems like it’s time for a wipe. Your frame has collected a lot of dust, Nepgear. We can’t have you dirty on your big day!”“Are you talking to Lilac Heart again?”Histoire turned to the door to see the magenta-eyed CPU. Plutia walked in through the door in her pink slippers. She didn’t spare Histoire a glance as she made her way to the desk filled with paperwork she had to go through.Histoire floated away from the painting and hovered beside Plutia. “I was just letting her know how far you’ve come as a CPU.”Plutia picked up one of the documents and pouted. “Did she have to do so much paperwork too?”Histoire huffed and answered, “As I’ve stated numerous times. Yes. Nepgear had to go through the same amount of paperwork as you are now.”Plutia leaned against the desk and whined, “It’s sooooo boring. I just wanna sleep…”“Do not close your eyes, Plutia. These documents must be signed! You held them off yesterday, so you must finish them today!” Histoire yelled. “The Lilac Festival is happening tonight, so please have them done before then!”Plutia sighed, “I know, I knooooow.”Without any more complaints, Plutia went to work, signing her name on the documents and stamping her nation’s seal of approval. Histoire helped organize the papers and sent them to the employees who needed them. Time flew by fast and Plutia’s momentum started to slow. A yawn escaped her lips as she stretched her arms. She got through a huge bulk of her documents and was almost done. She was lucky that most of the paperwork was complaints from the Seven Sages so she could ignore them. She just wanted to turn in for the day. Plutia leaned back against her cushioned chair and glanced at the framed painting. She subconsciously touched her chest where the crystal rested as memories returned her to that fateful day.
‘You will be what I couldn’t be! You will be Planeptune’s greatest ruler!’
Plutia frowned as she ripped her eyes away. She turned her chair around and looked out the giant window. She could see a large Lilac Heart balloon floating high above the street. Her people certainly went all out for this year’s Lilac Festival. She understood how much her people loved and admired the previous Planeptune goddess.Plutia admired Nepgear too. Everyone spoke great things about her. About how strong she was, how smart she was, and how kind she was. Nepgear gave everyone hope during times of war. She gave Plutia hope, but it all shattered. The day that Planeptune fell was the day when all hope was lost. It was also the day when Plutia was forced to become a CPU and carry Planeptune on her shoulders. And that very day… was today.It was hard. To rebuild what was lost. If Histoire hadn’t found her after chasing White Heart away, Plutia would have probably died. She had nothing left in this world. Her home was destroyed and her parents were killed. Everything she cared for was taken from her, so why was she still alive? Why was she the only one? If Histoire had been a second late, Planeptune’s newest CPU would have died by her own hands.“Plutia? Are you almost done with the papers?”Plutia smiled as she sat up straight. The small fairy flew in while carrying a plastic bag. She gently placed the bag on Plutia’s desk, being mindful of the documents. “I ooooooonly have a few papers left! What’s in the bag?” Plutia asked curiously.Histoire pulled out a pudding cup. “An employee down in the lobby was handing out pudding to everyone to celebrate the Lilac Festival. I figured you could have a treat as a reward for your hard work.”Plutia took the pudding from Histoire and said, “Thank you!” She quickly opened the dessert and dug in. “Hmmmmm!” The custard filled her mouth with sweetness. “Delicious.”Histoire smiled and pulled out another pudding to have herself. “We should move to the resting area. It’s bad to eat at your desk. We don’t want to dirty the documents.”Plutia nodded and made her way to the couch. She plopped herself down and sighed. Her eyes automatically went up to Nepgear again. Anytime she wanted a break from her work, she would nap on this couch. And Nepgear’s face would be the first thing she sees every time she wakes up. “Heeeeeeey, Histy?”Histoire ripped open the pudding’s covering and answered, “Yes?”“Do you miss her?”

Histoire blinked and turned to look at Nepgear as well. Her eyes softened as a bitter feeling appeared. “Of course… She was my very first friend after all. If Nepgear never appeared, I would still be trapped in my seal.”Plutia frowned as the pudding suddenly tasted less sweet. “Lilac Heart… was amazing, wasn’t she?”Histoire nodded with pride. “She was a magnificent goddess! One that would go down in Planeptune’s history! That’s why we have the Lilac Festival! To honor what she’s done for us!”“Someone like me…” Plutia looked down at the pudding cup in her hand. “Someone like me could never be like her…”Histoire looked at Plutia with sad eyes. She floated over and landed on her lap. “Plutia, I know it has been hard. For me, and for you. But you don’t have to be like her. I’m sorry if I made you feel like you have to be like Nepgear, but I never wanted you to.”Plutia looked at Histoire. “You are Plutia. Not Nepgear. How you became a CPU may not have been ideal, but she chose you nonetheless.”Plutia growled, “She didn’t choose me. She had no other choices, but me!” She abruptly stood up, knocking Histoire off accidentally. “She could have forced aaaaanyone to be her successor if she met them on that day! She just happened to find me instead! She made a mistake!”Histoire recovered from her fall, though her pudding was gone, that was something she needn’t worry about. She was more worried about the Iris CPU as she saw tears when she levitated up to her face. “Plutia.”“You saw how I was.” Plutia clenched her hands, causing her to crush the pudding cup. “I was no Lilac Heart. I was a crazy CPU. You should’ve just let me die!”Histoire slapped Plutia across her face and shouted, “I THOUGHT I TOLD YOU TO NEVER SAY THAT!!!”Plutia gritted her teeth as her left cheek stung. Histoire shook with anger as she looked at the purple-haired girl. She understood the iris goddess would get emotional on this day, but how long must she keep beating herself down like this? “She risked her life for you and this is the gratitude you give her?! How many times must I repeat myself?! I will not let Nepgear's hard work go to waste!”“I never asked for this,” Plutia whispered.“No. Of course not. Nepgear wouldn’t have wanted this either,” Histoire voiced. “She would never force her citizens to fight her battles, but this was the choice she made. I may not have been present, but my book recorded everything. You may not know, but Nepgear was proud! She believed in you!”Plutia whimpered.“A new CPU would not last long in battle if they aren’t powered by people’s faith. You couldn’t have won against White Heart that day if you didn’t have any faith. Have you ever thought about that?!”Plutia slowly shook her head.“It was Nepgear. She was the only one to witness the birth of a new CPU, she was the only one who knew who you were. That day, she placed her faith in you!” Histoire jabbed Plutia in the forehead with her finger.Plutia winced back from Histoire’s finger and her yelling.“So don’t tell me she made a mistake or that I shouldn’t have saved you.” Histoire’s angry eyes cooled down as tears appeared. “Didn’t Nepgear tell you to live?”Plutia could hear the desperate voice echoing through her ears. ‘Please, Plutia… please, live!’ The Planeptune CPU quivered as hot tears finally fell. It’s been five years since she rebuilt Planeptune and claimed herself as the nation’s new CPU. Day by day, Plutia was plagued by stress and uneasiness. She worried that she couldn’t be what Nepgear was to the people. Worried that people wouldn’t accept her for who she was. Worried that she couldn’t lead Planeptune. Plutia knew very well what her personality was like as a CPU. And that made her scared.“Plutia.” Histoire pressed herself to the CPU’s chest in the best attempt at a hug. “You are not alone. I am still here. And I will do my best to support you as your oracle and as your friend. So please don’t ever say that again. Please. It would break Nepgear’s heart and mine too.”“I’m sorry, Histy. I’m sorry… hic… for being difficult… hic… all these times.” Plutia hiccuped through her apology.“It's all right.” Histoire chuckled. “It’s not like I didn’t have my troubles with Nepgear.” She moved back and gave Plutia a bright smile. “Please talk to me if you ever have any worries. Don’t bottle them like you always do. Pretending to smile can get very tiring. Nepgear was like that too.”Plutia sniffled and wiped her tears, only to end up smearing pudding on her face. “Ah…” She looked at the crushed cup in her hands and the pudding splattered on the floor. “Sorry for the mess.”Histoire laughed. “I’ll call for someone to clean this up. Why not get some fresh air? You can go to the Festival. You don’t have a lot of papers left so you can finish them later. The Festival is a celebration in honor of Lilac Heart but it’s also a celebration of your birth as a CPU. I’m sure it would mean a lot to the people if you gave a brief appearance.” Plutia smiled. “I’ll do that… Thank you… for everything, Histy. ”Histoire beamed, “Always, Plutia.”

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Planeptune, GamindustriPlace: PlaneptowerDate: August 26, 2012Time: 3:47 P.M
Plutia walked through the front doors of her Basilicom, letting the nice air conditioning cool her down. She let out a tired sigh from traveling back from Virtua Forest. While she enjoyed doing monster quests, she hated having to move so much. “Welcome back, Lady Iris Heart!”Plutia smiled and waved to the receptionists behind the lobby counter. “Hellooooo! Keep up the aaaaaawesome work!” “Will do!” They bowed their heads as Plutia entered the elevator.Once the elevator doors closed, Plutia dropped her smile. She was so tired that she didn’t have the strength to smile anymore. “Aaaaaah! I wanna sleep…”The elevator stopped and the doors opened. Plutia yawned as she exited. Making her way to her office, she headed straight for the small lounge.“Hiiiiiisty! I’m taking my afternoon nap now!” She plopped face-first into the couch, enjoying the soft cushions.Histoire, who was going through documents, immediately went to stop the girl from sleeping. “Wait, Plutia! We have a problem!”“Can’t this wait til laaaaaater?” Plutia grumbled.“This cannot!” Histoire claimed as she pulled on Plutia’s braid. “We have another nation to worry about!”

“Whaaaaaat? Did Lowee send their jets again?” Plutia sat up and rubbed her eyes.“No, it’s not Lowee. A new nation appeared to the right of Planeptune,” Histoire informed as she released the shorter girl’s braid.Plutia narrowed her eyes. “New nation? A CPU other than White Heart?”Histoire nodded. “It would seem so.”“How come it’s only been noticed nooooooow?”“It probably wasn’t that developed so it wasn’t recognized as a new nation yet, until recently.” “Then whaaaaaat about the CPU? Why did you not notice heeeeer?” Histoire rubbed the back of her head. “Well… I have been kind of busy. I had to flip through a few pages in my book to see when the new CPU was born.”“So wheeeeen?” “Sometime last year,” Histoire answered.“Wooooooow! It took her a year to build up an entire nation! It took me two years to rebuild Planeptune. She must have worked reeeeeeeealy hard,” Plutia praised.“Rebuilding Planeptune only took a year for you as well, Plutia,” reminded the fairy. “We just had trouble gaining residents.”Plutia pouted. “But that’s because I got help from the PC Continent…”Histoire didn’t deny it as she did ask help from outside sources for Plutia. “Anyway, the name of this new nation is called Lastation.”Plutia tilted her head as the name sounded familiar. “Lastation?”
‘My dream is to have my very own nation called Lastation!’
“Plutia, is something the matter? You’re spacing out.”Plutia blinked and chuckled as she rubbed the back of her head. “Soooooory! Everything’s ooooookay! I’m just sleepy.”Histoire groaned, “Stop falling asleep! This is very important!”“But the CPU of Lastation hasn't done anything, riiiiight?”“They haven’t, which is why we need to do something first,” Histoire reasoned.“Do whaaaaaat?” Plutia questioned. “We’re not gonna attack her, are we?”“Of course not! You’re going to try and build relations!” Histoire claimed as she pointed at Plutia.Plutia pointed to herself as she voiced, “Meeeeeee?”Histoire crossed her arms. “Yes, you. I’ve already sent a formal letter to Lastation, asking for an audience. A letter was sent back accepting our proposal.”“So I’m going to Lastaaaaaaation?”Histoire smiled. “Yes, you are. I’ve already got a few guards assembled for your trip.”Plutia shook her head. “No need.”The Oracle blinked as she repeated, “No need?” Plutia beamed. “I can go myself! It would be safer for my people if I ever need to transform.”Histoire felt a beat of sweat fall. “I am sending guards along to ensure you do not transform, Plutia.”“Eeeeeeeh? Why?”“We already have bad blood with Lowee. Do we want bad blood with Lastation too? We might end up fighting a two-front war otherwise.”Plutia pouted. “Hiiiiiisty! Have more faith in me! I wouldn’t make Lastation hate me! It’ll be fine! I’ll only transform if they attack me.”Histoire sighed, “I suppose it would be bad for the guards if you needed to transform. We don’t want them getting in your way.”Plutia smirked. “Exactly. So I’ll go by myself!”“I’ll have a guard at least drive you to the border. You are not flying to their capital city, understand?!”Plutia whined, “That’s no fuuuuuun. You’re a meanie, Histy.”Histoire sternly claimed, “It’s for the benefit of Planeptune!”Plutia rolled her eyes as she groaned, “Okaaaaay. When do I go?”Histoire grinned. “I’m glad you asked. You’re going now.”Plutia blinked. “Now?”“Now.”Plutia stared for a minute until the word registered in her brain. “Eeeeeeeeeeh?! What about my afternoon nap?!”“No time for that! It would take a few days to reach Lastation on foot since you’re not flying, so you better start moving now!” Histoire floated over to Plutia’s desk and rolled out a purple suitcase. “I even packed your things for you while you were doing quests. And make sure to keep this safe!” Histoire flew over and shoved a black envelope into the CPU’s hands. “You’ll need this to pass the Lastation border patrols.” Plutia glanced at the envelope and questioned, “Didn’t you just get the reply today? How did you know they would accept and already prepare my things?”Histoire smirked as she held her head up high. “Call it an oracle’s intuition. Now, get moving! A vehicle should be waiting outside per my orders.”Plutia sighed as she put the envelope into her inventory and slid off the couch. She grabbed the suitcase and rolled out of her office with Histoire following. She noticed how heavy the luggage was when pulling it. “I’m not staying in Lastation long, am I?” Plutia questioned as she walked down the hallway.“If everything goes well, you will be there for two nights,” Historie informed.“And if it doesn’t go well?”Histoire deadpanned, “You’ll most likely be back by tomorrow morning.”“You think I’ll flop just by taking my first step into the nation, dooooon’t you, Histy?”Histoire hoped, “I pray that my prediction doesn’t come true.”Plutia giggled. “Dooooon’t worry! I’ll make sure to stay on the CPU’s good side!”The two entered the elevator and rode down to the first floor. When they exited the lobby, Plutia could see the Military jeep. A soldier stood by the passenger door and saluted. He opened the door for Plutia and then took her suitcase.“I’m off, Histy! I’ll be back before you can say Lilac Heart!”Histoire waved. “Bring back good news and not an army!”“I’ll try!” Plutia closed the door and the vehicle drove off.Histoire watched with mild anxiety. This was the first time Plutia left for another nation. The blonde fairy can’t help but feel worried. “...Lilac Heart…”
Planeptune, GamindustriPlace: Planeptune CityDate: August 26, 2012Time: 4:01 P.M
Plutia watched how the Planeptower shrunk the further they drove away. She had never left her nation, so this was a new experience. She hoped that White Heart wouldn’t attack while she was away. That was her biggest fear when leaving for Lastation. She was completely unaware of her departure. She could have prepared countermeasures if White Heart ever decided to attack again, but Plutia could only assume Histoire had everything handled.“How long is the travel to Lastaaaaaaation?” Plutia asked.“From Miss Histoire’s orders, I’ll be dropping you off at the eastern border,” informed the driver. “It will take a few hours to get there.”“Sooooooo I’m the only one crossing the border?”“Yes, since you didn’t want guards with you, we are not allowed to cross. The warnings from Lastation are that only those who stay by Lady Iris Heart’s side may cross. Miss Histoire had informed them that you would arrive by plane, but…”Plutia chuckled. “Guess they’ll be surprised. I’m sure Histy has sent word that I’ll be coming on foot.”The driver glanced at the rear mirror to see the CPU’s smile. “Not to be rude, Lady Iris Heart, but please stay as your cute self when you enter the new nation.”Plutia pouted. “I won’t transform unless I need to. Don’t worry! I won’t cause trouble.”The driver felt a bit guilty. “You will be alone, Lady Iris Heart. We just don’t want anything happening to you. Planeptune already lost a goddess. We just don’t want to lose another.”Plutia glanced out the window as her hand moved to clutch her crystal necklace. “I know… Planeptune won’t have any way of defending itself against White Heart if I’m gone.”The driver turned his head to confront his goddess with saddened eyes. “That’s not the reason why-”“This subject is dropped!” Plutia commanded, her eyes showing irritation.The driver gulped and turned his eyes back on the road. “Yes, Lady Iris Heart…”
Planeptune, GamindustriPlace: Eastern BorderDate: August 26, 2012Time: 6:51 P.M
When they reached the eastern border, the sun was already setting. The jeep stopped by the military camp that was guarding the border. The entire camp lined up and saluted as Plutia jumped out of the vehicle.A tall bulky man dressed in a dark purple uniform saluted. “Welcome, Lady Iris Heart! We got word from Miss Histoire that you will stop by here.”“Hi, Commander!” Plutia greeted. “You didn’t have to assemble all the soldiers to greet me.”“Of course, we must!”Plutia giggled as she waved to the other soldiers behind him. “Hi, everyoooooooone!”The soldiers greeted back. “Hello, Lady Iris Heart! We hope your travel here was pleasant!”Plutia clapped her hands at how in sync everyone was. “Keep up the gooooooood work! Okay, everyone?”“Yes, ma’am!”“Here are your belongings, Lady Iris Heart.” The driver pulled her suitcase from the vehicle and rolled it to her side. “I’ll be here waiting for your return.”“Thank you for the lift, Mr. Driver!” Plutia said.“Lady Iris Heart, is it true you decline us to guard you?” The commander asked.“Yep!” Plutia confirmed. “I don’t want anything happening to you if things get bad in an unknown territory.”“But-”“No buts!” Plutia interrupted. “I’ll be fine on my own. Besides, we’re just meeting for some friendly introductions.”The soldiers glanced at each other with anxious eyes. The commander himself was also worried. Their goddess had never stepped outside of Planeptune, so they felt uneasy.“Now, then… I don’t suppose you have a map to Lastation, do yoooooou?” asked the purple-haired girl. “I have been told I get lost a lot.”“Ah, yes! I have prepared a map for you!” The commander pulled out a folded paper and handed it over to Plutia.The shorter girl unfolded the map to see many funny shapes and lines. She turned the paper upside down, rotated, and tried to find a way to read it. The soldiers could see the question marks coming out of her head.“D-Do you need help reading it?” The commander asked.“No, no! I got it! This is Lastation, right?” Plutia pointed to the other side of the mountains.“Yes, that is the nation.”Plutia folded the map and claimed, “Then I know where I’m going!”“Y-You’re not… flying… are you, Lady Iris Heart?” The commander questioned.All the soldiers turned pale.“I reeeeeeeally want to,” said Plutia. “But Histy told me not to, so I’ll travel on foot.”Everyone sighed with relief.“But Histy said not to fly into the city transformed, sooooo maybe if I fly halfway-”All the soldiers shouted at once, “NO!” “Eh?”The commander cleared his throat. “W-What we meant was… They might mistake you for an enemy jet. They could shoot you down!”Plutia hummed, “Ooooooh, that would be bad.”“Right? So it’s best to stay low,” advised the commander.“Good idea, commander!” Plutia praised.The commander sighed as the soldiers gave him a thumbs-up for his efforts. “Then I should get going. I want some sleep but I might not make it if I don’t leave now.”“It’s already late, Lady Iris Heart. Why not leave early in the morning?” suggested the commander.Plutia glanced around and noticed how all the soldiers became on edge. “Thank you for the offer, Commander, buuuuuuuut I don’t want to bother…”“Not at all, Lady Iris Heart! It’s our pleasure to have your company, right everyone!” The commander turned to the soldiers and glared.Everyone straightened up and saluted. “Sir, yes sir! We welcome Lady Iris Heart to our humble abode!”Plutia smiled. “Weeeeeell, okay! I guess I’ll leave tomorrow morning!”“Then let me show you to your room. Have you had dinner yet, Lady Iris Heart?” questioned the commander.At the mention of dinner, Plutia’s stomach growled. She let out an embarrassed chuckle and replied, “No, I haven’t.”“Then I’ll have someone prepare your meal as well. Please follow me.” “Thaaaank you so much!” Plutia chirped.The commander turned to his soldiers and ordered, “Everyone back to your post! I expect you all to behave with our goddess here! Understood?!”They all quickly replied loud and clear, “Sir, yes sir!”Plutia watched as they all dispersed and followed the commander. It was interesting to watch her military move about in the camp. She doesn’t visit her military that often, but it was nice to see the people who put their lives for her nation once in a while. She doesn’t voice it but she appreciates them dearly.Plutia hopes that her meeting with the new goddess goes well. She doesn’t want her people to fight any more wars. Planeptune’s safety was riding on this. She will make this negotiation work!

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Planeptune, GamindustriPlace: Planeptune CityDate: September 23, 2003Time: ???
On the balcony, Nepgear observed the crowd gradually expanding as the announcement time drew nearer. Her speech would take place on the enormous white stage in front of the Basilicom The CPU never wanted this to happen.“Nepgear, the preparations are complete. The entirety of Planeptune is waiting.”The purple-haired girl turned around to face the floating tome. Her eyebrows furrowed as her eyes dropped down with sadness. “Histoire…”The fairy smiled slightly at the CPU. “Everything will be okay. You did your best to prevent it, but now it’s time to tell your people the truth.”Nepgear sighed. “Why couldn’t we just be friends? Was she just that selfish?”“Nepgear…” Histoire floated up to her friend and touched her shoulder. “Life as a CPU isn’t easy.”Nepgear scoffed as she looked up at the sky with a mocking smile. “Maybe that’s why big sis never found a nation of her own. She could have at least stayed to help…”“She’ll come back someday, but… maybe it’s best that she wasn’t here to witness this…”Nepgear took a deep breath and activated her HDD. Her hair turned pink as her outfit was replaced with her white processor uniform. Her eyes glowed bright blue as large pink wings materialized behind her back. “Planeptune is still small. I don’t know if we'll survive, but I’ll die trying.” She looked down at her hand and clenched it into a fist. “Because this is my nation. These are my people. And these are my responsibilities!”Histoire beamed. “I believe in you, Nepgear. You are strong and kind. Your people will stand by your side.”Lilac Heart looked at her Oracle and returned the smile. “Thank you, Histoire.”“Do your best out there. I’ll be rooting.”The goddess nodded and took flight. The sounds of her people could be heard from above, but once she landed on the large platform, everyone went silent. Lilac Heart walked up to the mic stand and peered over the crowd. She could even see multiple camera crews. There were even drones flying around to capture this moment.Lilac Heart held the mic stand and closed her blue eyes as she took a deep breath. This is where everything will start. Whether she lost shares or not, she had to do this. The goddess opened her eyes and calmly spoke into the mic, projecting her voice through the air. “Hello, everyone. This is Lilac Heart speaking.”Although her face was solemn and icy, her eyes betrayed her anxiety, which worried the others. Nevertheless, they remained quiet to hear their goddess's words.“I don’t want to be a bearer of bad news, but this was something that I cannot hide from you nor should I keep from you.” The Lilac CPU licked her lips and sighed. She gripped the mic to try and stop the quivering in her hands. A future she didn’t want to see was slowly approaching her and her beloved nation.“Planeptune has been peacefully expanding throughout the years. My heart blooms with joy seeing my nation prosper. Your happiness is my happiness!” Lilac Heart beamed with pride as she examined the crowd.She made eye contact with the people and found that they smiled. The goddess wanted to keep those smiles on her people, but she knew the next few words would bring fear and anxiety.Lilac Heart dropped her smile to a frown and the sparkle in her eyes disappeared. “But happiness cannot last forever. The Goddess of Lowee would not accept any of my negotiations for peace. I do not understand why White Heart was so persistent in turning me away and making me the villain, but our peaceful lives are over.”Worried whispers filled her ears as if they were screaming at her. This was the scenario she wanted to avoid at all costs. She had repeatedly pleaded over and over with Lowee’s goddess, but words didn’t seem to get through. She had tried to be nice, but even actions were turned away. Just what did White Heart want from her? It’s not like she could just stop making shares. That would make her nation suffer. Lilac Heart just didn’t understand. It angered her even more when White Heart said she would offer to take her place. That infuriated her to her CPU core.Feeling that frustration, Lilac Heart let her feelings slip out as she spoke her next words. “White Heart has demanded that I turn Planeptune over, but I refused! I cannot have that happen. This is MY nation! You are MY people! Planeptune has its OWN laws and its OWN liberty. We are not Loweeans, but Planeptunians! I will stand to protect my nation’s independence!” Lilac Heart sighed and looked down at her feet. She tried to calm herself before she said anything that shouldn’t be said on camera. This announcement isn’t for ranting but for informing. She focused back at the crowd and voiced, “I tried so hard the last few years to convince White Heart, but I have failed. Our negotiations have failed and Lowee has declared war on us for they plan to conquer us through force!”The crowd gasped as everyone started to shift and fidget in place. War. The one word everyone didn’t want to hear. Even Lilac Heart couldn’t believe the words she spoke herself. She always thought that her future was bright. That everything would be fine. Oh, how stupid she was.Lilac Heart held up her hand and the crowd slowly went quiet. “I understand that this is scary. No one wants war. Not even me. I had hoped we could come to peaceful ways. I thought I could make things work. I truly believed in a future where we didn’t need to fight. I always thought CPUs should work together to bring peace to Gamindustri! We should be protecting the people instead of fighting among ourselves! That is what I believe in!” Lilac Heart softened her voice. “What I want to believe in…”Lilac Heart paused to catch her breath. She glanced around to see that her people were still giving her their attention. A few clicks of cameras could be heard here and there and the drones high up in the air were still circling. Lilac Heart pondered the possible emotions of others watching her on TV. Perhaps the same as the people in front of her now.“I am sorry to you all. I can’t tell you how devastated and angry I am right now. Maybe someday, there will be a nation, a CPU, who could share my ideals and work together. A future where CPUs come together and bring peace to Gamindustri without needing to kill for shares. But until that day comes, Planeptune must go to war with Lowee. This is something we cannot avoid!”Lilac Heart inhaled deeply and spoke with a powerful voice, loud and clear, letting it echo through the ears of her people. “I know our future won’t look as bright anymore, but I promise you! As your goddess, I will keep you all safe! I will do all that I can to defend this land! To protect our peaceful tomorrow! So please be at ease! We will win this war!”The crowd came to life with roars, shocking Lilac Heart. Their cheers for their goddess shook the air around. Lilac Heart could hear the fighting spirit within her people. The shares were coursing through her veins, strengthening her determination to succeed.“I thank you all for your support! It will be tough, but I know we will pull through together! This war is just a single hurdle! Planeptune will rise to greater heights! I believe in the future of this nation! So please leave your faith to me!”The crowd began to chant Lilac Heart’s name as they jumped up and down. The CPU beamed as her blue eyes lit up with great determination. She had never felt more radiant than ever. Lilac Heart shouted, “Let’s work together so Planeptune will never have to face war again!” The crowd screamed, “FOR PLANEPTUNE!”The CPU followed her people and raised her fist as she yelled through the mic. “For Planeptune!”

Lilac Heart wanted to believe that there would be minimal casualties, but she was going against a nation that had been here for years. Planeptune was no match in terms of size or military power. She would need a miracle to keep Planeptune alive, even if she had to search across continents. She will find that miracle.Looking up at the blue sky, Lilac Heart vowed to herself. “I will find her… The CPU that Planeptune needs…”
Planeptune, GamindustriPlace: Eastern BorderDate: August 27, 2012Time: 2:35 P.M.
The commander blinked at the yawning CPU. “You slept longer than I expected, Lady Iris Heart…”The troops looked nervously as their goddess swayed on her feet. They all gathered to watch their goddess depart for the new nation, although they questioned whether she ought to have more rest. They never imagined Plutia would sleep til the afternoon. They had heard that their goddess was a sleepyhead but had not believed it until now.Plutia rubbed her eyes, trying to wipe the sleepiness away. The sun always didn’t help as it blinded her, keeping her eyes shut. “I woke up earlier this morning, but I was just sooooo tired that… I…” Her body began to sway as she was slowly dozing off.“L-Lady Iris Heart?”Plutia blinked and stood up straight. “Soooooorry. Still sleepy…”“I-I can see that,” said the commander. “Would you like us to drive you to Lastation instead so you can sleep on the way?” Plutia quickly shook her head to wake herself up. “Nope! I’m okay! I can go on my own!”“Are you sure?”Plutia pouted. “I said I can go on my own! I’m fully awake now!”“Of course, Lady Iris Heart.” To avoid upsetting his goddess, the commander did not push further. “Have you had breakfast? Or should I say… Lunch?”Plutia hummed. “I had a loaf of bread. I’m not reeeeeeeally a big eater right when I wake up.”“Are you sure you don’t want to eat anything else before leaving?”Plutia assured, “I'm good! I’d like to get moving since I did sleep in. The journey there will take longer if I don’t start now.”“Then, please take these with you.” The commander turned to the soldiers. “Bring it!”A tall, burly soldier approached them with a big crate. Setting the wooden box down, he saluted and stepped back. When Plutia opened the package, she discovered numerous energy bars, water bottles, healing potions, and bandages.The goddess melted from seeing the contents. “Awwwwwe, you guys! You didn’t have to prepare all this. You make it look like I’ll spend several days in the wild.”“We just want to ensure that our goddess makes it back in one piece.”Plutia placed the goodies box into her inventory and stated, “Thank you. I’ll be sure to bring back good news. Like Lilac Heart, I’ll do my best to negotiate for peace.” She clutched her chest and claimed, “I won’t let history repeat itself!”The commander saluted the goddess. “We’re counting on you, Lady Iris Heart! The future of this nation is in your hands!”Plutia nodded. “Planeptune will not face another tragic fall! I won't let that happen! I promise you all in the name of Lilac Heart.”The commander softly smiled. “We know. Safe travels, Lady Iris Heart! We’ll be waiting for your return!”The soldiers repeated after their commander. “Safe travels, Lady Iris Heart! Our faith is with you!”Plutia turned to everyone to feel their faith flowing through her body. Her chest felt warm and her body buzzed with energy she didn’t have. Light and numbers surrounded her all of a sudden. Everyone felt their heart drop when the tall woman with bright iris hair stood before them. Her slim waist, ample chest, and long legs were very eye-catching, but her crazed grin and hungry pink eyes made everyone tremble.The commander took a few steps back. “L-L-Lady Iris Heart?”“Oh, I just want to… Eat. You. All. Up.” Iris Heart grinned. “Giving me such a warm welcome and even sending me off. I’m so happy to have such good dogs.” The goddess walked forward and tilted the commander’s chin up. She licked her lips and purred. “Feeling so much faith from you all just makes me feel so full~ I do like my dogs full of stamina. Do keep up the good work, boys.” She glanced at the soldiers and winked at the females. “And girls included.”Everyone stuttered, “Y-Y-Yes, Lady Iris Heart!” Iris Heart pulled back and summoned out her wings. “Even though I mentioned that I would walk on foot, I am getting excited. A quick flight will help me relax. Do not worry, after I cross the mountain range, I will transform back. Bye-bye, cuties~” A pink magic circle formed beneath her feet and she launched into the air. She glanced back to see some of the soldiers falling off their feet. She couldn’t help but giggle with amusement. It was always fun teasing her military forces. They were always so serious around her.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Lastation, Gamindustri
Place: ???
Date: August 27, 2012
Time: 7:43 P.M.
Iris Heart flew through the sky as she enjoyed the feeling of the cool air against her skin. She had long past the mountain range and decided to transform back after flying halfway into Lastation. There’s no harm if no one sees her after all. Her people are too paranoid. She can control herself just fine.“Still… I have been flying for hours now… The capital didn’t look far from Planeptune, so the city should be somewhere here, no?”Iris Heart stopped her movement and hovered in place. She pulled out the map to see where her location was. She found Planeptune and the mountain range she passed. If she flew straight, she should have hit the capital hours ago. Did she miss it somehow? Iris Heart looked around, but all she saw were trees and trees and trees. “Oh, dear… Don’t tell me I’m lost?” Iris Heart sighed. “So even in HDD, I still get lost easily. I’m so hopeless.” The CPU placed the map away and cruised ahead. Now would be a good opportunity for her to explore this new area. It wasn’t like she was in a rush.“Ah~ It has been some time since I last spread my wings. Fufufu. Hm?” Iris Heart turned to her right to see a large body of water. “Oh? If that’s the ocean then I’ve been traveling southeast this whole time… Well, a detour never hurts.” Iris Heart headed towards the ocean and landed down on the sand. She surveyed the beach to see that she was alone. The water shimmered in the moonlight, reflecting the stars above. The goddess walked over to the edge to see her reflection. It quickly washed away with the crashing of the soft ocean waves, sending cold waters against her ankles.Iris Heart peered down the coastline as her thoughts wandered. If she ever wanted an easy attack on Lastation she could send her navy. There doesn’t seem to be a patrol on the waters. It would be easier than treading through the mountain range. The goddess frowned as she shook her head, realizing what she was doing. She took to the sky again, heading toward the correct direction. If she keeps this speed, she should make it to the capital before sunrise. She summoned out one of the energy bars she had gotten from her soldiers and quickly ate it. She tucked the wrapper away and would toss it once she made it to the city.There wasn’t much in the nation of Lastation other than trees and grass. The nation was surrounded by a mountain range and a body of water. It reminded Iris Heart of her nation. She hoped to see something new, but it was the same old same old. She knew Lowee was covered in red trees, so she thought Lastation might have something different as well. While she was busy observing the trees below, three loud figures zipped past her at high speeds. Iris Heart abruptly stopped and hovered in place. She looked up at the large shadows to see fighter jets.

The jets hovered around her and a voice was projected from the leading jet. “This is Lastation’s Black Shooter Air Force. You have trespassed on Lastation borders without permission. Please turn back or we’ll be forced to shoot.”The goddess wasn’t intimidated. She wondered if she should just destroy them and be on her merry way. She flexed her fingers, ready to materialize her sword, but then Histoire’s voice rang through her head.
‘We already have bad blood with Lowee. Do we want bad blood with Lastation too?’
Iris Heart took a deep breath and relaxed herself. She called out her holographic screen and connected to the jets’ intercom. “This is Planeptune's CPU, Iris Heart. I have been permitted to enter Lastation and meet with your CPU.”The voice from earlier came through her screen instead of the jet's speakers. “Please present a Black Card or a permission letter from Lastation’s Basilicom.”Iris Heart pursed her lips. She was unaware of a black card and does not recall receiving a permission letter… unless... The Iris CPU summoned out the black envelope that Histoire had given to her. She pulled out the contents and showed them to the pilots on the screen.There was silence from the jets until a voice finally responded from her screen. “We have confirmed with our Basilicom. Welcome to Lastation, Lady Iris Heart. Allow us to escort you to Lastation City.”Iris Heart grinned. “That would be much appreciated.”  The jets got into formation and flew off with Iris Heart following. The CPU was glad she wasn’t forced to return; otherwise, she’d be proving Histoire words right from yesterday. It would be quite embarrassing for her.As they flew for a few more hours, Iris Heart noticed something bright up ahead. The closer they got, the clearer it was. Tall black buildings started sprouting from the horizon. It was at this time she remembered that she had promised Histoire not to be transformed.Iris Heart hovered in the air and reconnected to the jet’s intercom. “Thank you for the escort, boys, but I’ll be good from here. I can see the city, so I’ll continue on foot.”“Then we wish you a goodnight in Lastation, Lady Iris Heart.” The jets split off and disappeared into the night.Iris Heart smiled and dove down into the trees. She landed and released her transformation. She looked around in the darkness and questioned, “Nooooooow… which way was the city again?” Plutia knew she didn’t land too far away from the city. She squinted her eyes and saw the sight of flickering lights. Her eyes lit up as she quickly pushed past the bushes and maneuvered around the trees. The lights ahead helped guide her through the forest. Finally breaking through, Plutia found herself on the road. People stared at her weirdly as they walked past. Plutia had leaves stuck in her hair and dirt staining her clothes. The goddess sighed as she plucked the leaves out of her hair one by one and patted her dress to get the dirt off. After trying to make herself look presentable, she asked a passing citizen for directions to the Basilicom. “The Basilicom? It’s a pretty long walk from here then. It’s located on the other side of the city. It’s got these giant glass wings. You won’t miss it.”Plutia chirped, “Thank you, kind citizen!”Plutia waved the citizen a good night and made her way to the mentioned building. It wasn’t that late into the night, but usually, this was the time people would get off of work in Planeptune. Seeing how active Lastation City still was, the goddess wondered if everyone was a night owl in this nation. Plutia felt her stomach grumble and she summoned out another energy bar. She munched on the snack as she strolled down the street. The street lamps helped illuminate the pathway as she took in the buildings with her curious eyes. They were very square and bulky, unlike her nation. The colors were also the complete opposite. Planpetune’s buildings were mostly white while here in Lastation, everything was pretty much black. It was amazing to the iris goddess.When she found the Basilicom, Plutia couldn’t help but be awed by it. It was big and it had wings! It wasn’t tall like the Planeptower, but it was very pretty from how the glass wings reflected the starry sky. Whoever the goddess was, Plutia can say they had great design taste!The iris goddess entered through the automatic glass doors. She was instantly assaulted by the air conditioning upon entrance. “Woooooah!”Plutia’s eyes sparkled from seeing the reflective black marble floor. A stunning glass sculpture hung from the ceiling, acting as a chandelier. Instead of a Basilicom, Plutia felt like she had entered a high-class hotel. She was very impressed by the building’s design.“Are you lost, little girl?”Plutia turned to the counter to see a blonde woman dressed in a black suit. She had a forced smile on her face, probably part of her job as she was the receptionist. The CPU approached her and gave a fake smile of her own. “Hellooooo! I’m actually here to see the CPU.”“The CPU? I’m sorry, but the CPU has turned in for the night. She had a very busy day,” said the receptionist. The goddess frowned. “But I have an appointed meeting with her.” “Meeting?” The receptionist chuckled. “I don’t think the CPU had any meetings scheduled at this time.”“Ah, the meeting isn’t now per se, since I know it’s very late, but if you let the CPU know I’m here-”She interrupted Plutia. “If that's the case then when’s the appointed time?” The receptionist pressed a few keys as she looked at the computer. “Is it for your parents? Are they here?” “Ah, no. It’s not for my parents,” Plutia corrected. “But I would really appreciate it if you called the CPU…”The receptionist smiled. “Give me a second.” She picked up the phone and made a call. She was whispering, so Plutia could not understand what she was saying. The receptionist placed the phone down and asked, “The CPU is busy and said for you to wait.”Plutia pouted. “But I’m exhaaaaausted. Can’t I wait in a room? If you tell her my name is Iris Heart, I don’t think she would make me wait here like this…”“Iris Heart?”Plutia beamed. “Yes! I’m Iris Heart. CPU of Planeptune!”The receptionist stared at her for a few seconds and then laughed. “Well, isn’t that cute!”Plutia pouted. “I reeeeeeeeally am the CPU of Planeptune!”“Of course, of course! Lady Iris Heart.” The receptionist gently patted Plutia on the head. The purple-haired puffed out her cheeks. “I’m not lying!”“Then when’s your appointed time with our Lady Black Heart?”“Oooooooh, her name is Black Heart. Our meeting time is… Uuuuuuuum…” Plutia remembered Histoire told her to leave for Lastation right away, but she never told her when the meeting time was. “I’m not so suuuuuure…”“Someone called about a lost child?”“Hmmm?” Plutia turned to the entrance to see a pair of policemen walking in. “Lost child?”“She’s over here!” The receptionist called over.“Huuuuuuuh?!! I’m not a lost child!” Plutia snapped her head back and grumbled at the receptionist. “I told you I’m the CPU of Planeptune!”The two policemen walked over and kneeled at Plutia’s height. They treated her like a kid, which greatly irritated the Iris CPU.“Did you lose your mommy and daddy? Can you tell us your name?”Plutia pouted, “I’m not lost!”“Yes, yes, of course not. Do you know your parent’s phone numbers? Would you like us to call your parents for you?”Plutia was too tired for this. “I don’t have parents.”The two policemen exchanged glances. Their eyes suddenly turned to one of worry. One of the policemen stood up and began to talk in their walkie-talkie while the other one continued their questioning.“Did you run away from home? Do you have a guardian?”“I didn’t run away and I don’t need a guardian. I’m a goddess,” Plutia monotoned.The policeman chuckled. “Yes, yes, you are a cute goddess.”Plutia mumbled, “You don’t believe me…”“Since you’re lost, would you like to come to the station with us?” he gently asked.Plutia took a deep breath and smiled. She understood how they see her now. These people didn’t believe a single word she spoke. So she could only do one thing. Histoire would be very upset with her if she caused any trouble, so… Plutia stared at the policeman for a minute and abruptly ran off. The officer was taken by surprise as he called after her. Plutia didn’t stop as she ran into the night. She hid in a nearby alley as she heard the rushing footsteps pass by. She heavily breathed trying to catch her breath. She never thought that this would happen. Hopefully, they don’t put out some kind of notice about a missing child.Plutia looked down at her feet and frowned. She had assured Histoire she wouldn’t transform in the new nation, but if she was going to get treated like a lost child, maybe it would be best she stayed transformed. That receptionist also didn’t believe her when she claimed to be the CPU of Planeptune. Plutia clutched her chest, feeling the diamond shape beneath her clothes. “I’ll just try again tomorrow.”Plutia came out of the alley and decided to find a hotel to stay in. Since she can’t stay in the Basilicom, she’ll have to find somewhere else to sleep. Hopefully, she finds one soon because she’s tired and sleepy.
Lastation, Gamindustri
Place: Basilicom
Date: August 27, 2012
Time: 10:28 P.M.
Walking out from the corner, she let her presence be known. “What was the commotion about?”The receptionist placed the phone down and bowed to the dark-haired girl. “Lady Black Heart! You’re still awake?!”The girl flipped one of her twintails and explained, “I had some late-night work and decided to get some fresh air. Did something happen?”“Oh, it was nothing serious. Just a lost child,” answered the blonde receptionist. The girl narrowed her red eyes. “A lost child?”“Yes! She was quite cute. She claimed herself to be the CPU of Planeptune.”“Oh, did she? Where is she now?”“She ran out when the cops came.”“You call the cops on her?”“Yes. I figured she ran away from home,” said the blonde receptionist. “Is something the matter, Lady Black Heart?”She sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose. “No, don’t worry about it. I’ll just have to buy a plushie to ease the whining… I hope she’s still into that…”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Lastation, GamindustriPlace: Lastation CityDate: August 28, 2012Time: 11:21 A.M.
The sun beat down on the loud city of Lastation. Plutia could see the gray smoke flowing into the sky from the busy factories. It was much noisier than it was at night. “Woooooow! The city reeeeeeeally transformed in the morning!”Plutia looked around to see many businessmen and businesswomen walking around. They were all dressed in suits.“Everyone looks so serious and hard-working,” she observed. The goddess decided to look around the city before trying her luck at the Basilicom. Last night, she lacked the stamina to go sightseeing, but now that she was well-rested, she was eager to have some fun.The first place she checked out was the game store. She had to check her competition after all. She found that a lot of the games sold are shooters. Planeptune has a few shooter games too, but a lot of their games are mostly platformers. “I’m not a big fan of shooters, buuuuuut I’ll give this a try!” The game Plutia picked up had a weird animal dressed in blue pants. It looked intriguing. “Ah… I’ll have to buy the console to play this. I don’t think I can use the one back at home… Hmmmmm….”Plutia left the store with a new console and a new game. She didn’t plan on buying anything, but temptation got the better of her. Surely, the goddess of this nation wouldn’t mind having her rival goddess buy her console. Plutia checked out the other shops too. Since she got a new console, she might as well buy other games that can be played on it. It’s not like any Planeptune games will work on it…Plutia was suddenly struck with an idea. She could make her games playable on other consoles! She would need permission from the other goddesses, which might be impossible. She figured that as long as the cross-platform playable games don’t get out to the public, she could just play the games exclusively to herself! Plutia halted in her steps as she realized something. If her meeting with Lastation’s goddess goes well, maybe she can discuss that. She only has Planeptune’s and Lastation’s consoles so she could only make games playable on those devices. If the Lastation’s CPU gives her permission, that is. But would that be too much to bring up when they only just met? It’s almost like a collaboration…Plutia crossed her arms in thought. “Hmmmmm… This is haaaaard.” After much thinking, the iris goddess gave up. There’s no harm in proposing the idea when she meets the new CPU. If she rejects the idea, Plutia can do it behind her back and not let the public know. She’ll reveal it when Lastation’s CPU finally agrees to cross-platform playable games. But for now, she’ll have fun touring this nation!
Lastation, GamindustriPlace: Lastation CityDate: August 28, 2012Time: 2:19 P.M.
“Ooooooookay! This time I’ll make sure to come across as a CPU of Planeptune!”Holding two sizable bags, one in each hand, Plutia positioned herself in front of the Basilicom. She wore a star-shaped pair of shades, a fake mustache, and a blue party hat. Furthermore, she wore a black and blue track jacket that sported the Lastation logo on its back. She looked like a ridiculous tourist and was drawing attention.

“Mommy, look! There's a weird person!”  “Don’t point, honey. It’s rude.” The mother quickly dragged her son away.Plutia felt a single beat of sweat drop. Her cheeks were dusted pink with embarrassment. “Maaaaaybe I went a bit overboard, hehehe…”“What, in the name of Lastation, are you wearing?”“Hmmm?” Blinking through her shades, Plutia saw a tall girl with black hair and red eyes. She decided to take off her star-shaped glasses to get a better look. The girl in front of her wore a black top and skirt. Her hair was tied into twintails with large blue ribbons. Plutia couldn’t help but feel like she had met the girl somewhere before.“Uuuuuuum-” Before Plutia could get any other word out her stomach growled. Loudly.The purple-haired girl slumped to her knees and whimpered. “I’m soooooo hungry.”The taller girl giggled and offered, “How about we get some lunch? I know a nice cafe nearby. My treat.”Plutia perked up. “Reeeeeeally?! You’re so nice!”The girl blushed. “D-D-D-Don’t get it wrong! I’m only doing this because you look pathetic!”Plutia whimpered, “I’m not pathetic…” The girl turned her head, looking guilty, but didn’t bother to apologize. “Let’s get going. You’re drawing so much attention with that dumb outfit of yours.”Plutia murmured, “Okaaaaaaay.” She swiped the air and summoned out her holographic screen. The iris goddess shoved her two large bags into her inventory along with her glasses and party hat. She also took off the jacket. “I’m ready!”“Then come quickly,” she urged as she walked away.“Hey, waaaaaait!” Plutia quickly followed with her pink slippers. “I haven’t gotten your naaaaaame!”“So you don’t remember?” The girl halted in her steps and Plutia bumped into her. “Hmmm?” Plutia rubbed her nose as she gave the girl a confused look.“Noire.”Plutia blinked. “What?”She glanced back and said, “My name is Noire.”Plutia happily greeted, “Oh! Nice to meet you, Noire! My name is Plutia!”Noire returned a smile of her own. “Nice to meet you too… Plutia.”The two didn’t travel far as the cafe was a few minutes away from the Basilicom. Noire paid for the food and drinks and they sat in a corner where there would be more privacy. Plutia happily ate her sandwich as Noire watched with a cup of coffee.“You’re new here, right, Plutia?” Noire asked.Plutia nodded. “Yep! It’s veeeeeery different from where I come from.”“How do you like the nation so far?”“I think it’s very nice,” Plutia honestly answered. “The terrain isn’t all that different from Planeptune, but the city has soooo many new things! I couldn’t help myself from buying souvenirs for my friend!”Noire chuckled. “So that’s what all those weird things were.”Plutia blushed. “I might have bought a little too much…”“I’ll say. What reason did you have for buying a party hat? Or even those absurd glasses?”Plutia fiddled with her necklace. “I thought they looked cool…”Noire noticed the pink crystal at the end of the chain and asked, “Is that a CP-”Plutia quickly tucked the crystal into her dress and steered the topic away. “Hey! Have you ever seen the CPU of Lastation?”Noire tensed up. “Why do you ask?”“I’m curious what she’s like. This is the first time I have heard of her. I just want to know what her citizens thought of her.”Noire hummed. “Well, for starters, she’s a very hard worker.” She puffed her chest out and boasted, “Super strong, focused, and quite the genius! She built this city all on her own and protected her people from monsters! You can simply say that I’m awesome!”Plutia blinked as she tilted her head cutely. “I’m?”“She!” Noire quickly corrected. “She’s awesome! Hahaha!”Plutia beamed. “Wooooow! You must really like her.”“Of course! She’s the CPU of Lastation after all!” Noire proudly claimed.“Then I can’t wait to meet her! I hope she’s nice,” Plutia prayed. “I don’t want another White Heart in my life…”Noire felt a chill go down her spine as Plutia’s eyes dulled. The cheerful girl suddenly got a very negative aura around her that made the air cold. “P-Plutia?”The shorter girl smiled, sending sparkles all around. “Ah, I shouldn’t waste any more time! Histy will get angry with me if the meeting doesn’t go well. She thinks I might mess up right when I step into Lastation! Isn’t that mean?”Noire tilted her head in confusion. “Histy?”“She’s my friend back in Planeptune! She’s suuuuper paranoid. Weeeeell…” Plutia touched her chin as she thought back to last night. “I diiiiiiid kinda mess up when I was chased out of the Basilicom, but!” Her eyes sparkled with determination as she claimed, “I’ll make sure not to look like a lost child this time!”The dark-haired girl snickered. “I don’t think you have to worry about that anymore.”“What makes you say thaaaaat?”Noire stood up and urged, “Come on, let’s head back to the Basilicom.”
Lastation, GamindustriPlace: BasilicomDate: August 28, 2012Time: 4:19 P.M.
Noire and Plutia stood in front of the doors to Lastation’s Basilicom. Before entering, Plutia pulled out her star-shaped glasses and fake mustache. She adjusted the accessories on her face while Noire stared at her.“What are you doing?” questioned the taller girl.“Trying to look like an adult!” claimed Plutia.Noire deadpanned, “That only makes you look more like a child.”Plutia entered through the automatic doors with Noire following behind. The goddess found two receptionists behind the counter this time. The same lady from last night and a different one right by her side.The blonde receptionist noticed Plutia first and voiced, “Oh! It’s you… again?” She was quite dumbfounded by the reflective shades.Plutia matched up to the counter and quickly voiced, “Please don’t call the cops on me!”The receptionist tensed and her expression turned to one of guilt. Her eyes glanced over to the twintailed girl behind Plutia who gave her a stern stare. She could feel her palms getting sweaty from the memory of being scolded by her superiors. Her coworker, who’s trying very hard not to laugh at Plutia’s getup, whispered, “I-Is that supposed to be the CPU? She really looks different from what’s shown on television.”The receptionist cleared her throat and gently pushed her coworker away as she apologized, “I am deeply sorry for what happened last night. There have been many missing child reports lately, so I just assumed…”Plutia beamed, happy that the misunderstanding was cleared up. “That’s okaaaaaaay!” She took off her glasses and mustache so she could be presentable. “So does that mean I can meet with your CPU noooooow?”Both receptionists blinked at her request. Their eyes glanced at the taller girl behind and then to Plutia and then back to the taller girl.Plutia pouted from their silence. “I still caaaaaan’t?”The other receptionist replied, “Ah, no, our apologies. If you're looking for our CPU, she’s right behind you.”Plutia paused. “Eh?”The receptionists bowed their heads to the girl behind. “Welcome back, Lady Black Heart.”“Goddess, I was wondering how long this would take.”“Noire?” Plutia turned around to face the dark-haired girl.Noire smirked. “Let me reintroduce myself. I am the CPU of Lastation, Noire, also known as Black Heart. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Plutia. Or, should I say Iris Heart? CPU of Planeptune.”Plutia’s eyes widened in shock. “Y-You knew who I waaaaaas?!”Noire chuckled. “Of course. I knew you before you even entered my nation.”“Eeeeeeeeh! But how? We have never met before…”Noire’s eyes were saddened. “So you really don’t remember me? I’m quite hurt. Considering we went to middle school together.”“Middle-”Suddenly, a little girl with black hair appeared in her head. The image of a classroom with many other students dawned on her and a single girl stood in front.
‘My dream is to have my very own nation called Lastation! I’ll be a better CPU than Lilac Heart! You’ll see, Plutia!’
Plutia blinked as the little girl's face overlapped with Noire’s. “Ah! You're that weird girl that wants to become a CPU!”Noire glared as she yelled, “Hey! It’s rude to call your old friend weird!” Without warning, Plutia tackled the other CPU in a tight hug. “Wha-!” Noire wrapped her arms around Plutia as she dug her heel into the ground, making sure not to fall over. “What was that for, you idiot?!”Plutia tightened her hold as she pressed her face into Noire’s shoulder. “I’m glad…”Noire noticed something was wrong when she felt wetness on her bare skin. “Plutia?”“I thought…” Plutia quivered as her warm tears ran down her face. “I thought everyone was gone that day… I'm glad. I'm glad I’m not the only one. I'm so glad that you’re alive… Noire…”Noire sighed as she patted Plutia’s head. “A lot happened after the fall of Lilac Heart. But I’ll let you know I wasn’t the only one to survive. Many people of Planeptune were able to escape too. A lot of Lastation’s residents used to be from Planeptune. So we’re not the only ones, Plutia. We’re not alone…”Plutia couldn’t control her emotions anymore as she wailed. She clung to the Black CPU, pouring out her raw emotions. It felt as if years of built-up stress were washed away with the mere discovery of someone other than her surviving that disaster. This was something that weighed heavily on her heart. Now, she felt relieved.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Lastation, Gamindustri
Place: Basilicom
Date: August 28, 2012
Time: 4:32 P.M.
Noire handed Plutia a tissue, who gratefully took it and blew her nose. The two CPUs had moved up to the third floor where Noire’s office was. Plutia sat on the black leather couch in the corner trying to compose herself.It’s been five years since Noire last saw the girl. She did not expect Plutia to burst into tears. She rubbed the back of her neck, trying to think of a way to cheer Plutia up. Then her eyes lit up as she remembered why she went out. Noire summoned out her screen and pulled the item from her inventory. Her blood rushed to her cheeks, but she threw her pride aside as she kneeled in front of Plutia with the fluffy item in her hands. She took a deep breath and pitched her voice. “There’s no need for tears because Mr. Cat is here!”Plutia blinked as she stared at the black cat plushie that Noire held over her face. “N-Noire?”Noire shook the plushie as she wiggled its arm. “I’m not Noire, I’m Mr. Cat!”Plutia giggled at Noire’s little stunt.“Have you cheered up, Plutia? Mr. Cat will be sad if not.” Noire peeked out from behind the plushie.

“Yeah! I’m feeling muuuuuuuch better! Thank you, Mr. Cat!” Plutia reached out and took the plushie into her hands. She hugged it tight and gave Noire a thankful smile. “And thank you too, Noire.”“Well…” Noire stood up and crossed her arms; her voice returning to normal. “As long as you’ve stopped crying.”Plutia chuckled. “But I didn’t know you liked plushies, Noire.” The Iris CPU gently rubbed against the soft fabric of the plushie. It was of good quality, super squishy and fluffy.“I don’t hate plushies, but I bought that for you.”Plutia looked up in confusion. “For me?”“It’s to apologize for last night. One of my employees sent you away even though you are my guest.”“Ooooooh! It’s okay,” Plutia assured. “She didn’t know I was a goddess.”Noire huffed, “Even so, she shouldn’t have called the cops on you until she confirmed it with me at least.”“It’s fine, it’s fiiiine. She already apologized.” Plutia felt very warm and fuzzy inside. It’s been so long since she last met Noire, but she enjoyed being cared for. “It was also my fault for not remembering the meeting time.”“The meeting was set for tomorrow. I didn’t expect you to arrive at Lastation so soon.”Plutia hummed as she bounced the plushie on her lap. “Histy had me leave immediately when she got your approval to meet. Lastation would take a few days to get to if we’re traveling on foot, buuuuut I decided just to fly. It would be faster and take fewer resources. Ah! But don’t tell Histy that! I promised her that I wouldn’t fly.”“Even if you say that, I don’t know who Histy is…”“Oh! I call her Histy, but her actual name is Histoire!” Plutia clarified.“Histoire? Oh! Lilac Heart’s Oracle.”Plutia nodded. “Uh-huh! Histy is very helpful! Do you have someone like that, Noire?”Noire shook her head and answered, “No. But I do have a secretary. I’m still pretty new to being a goddess.”“I can give you Histy’s number,” Plutia offered. “She knows a looooot of CPU things! If you have any questions, you can ask her!”“That’s a very tempting offer, but I don’t know how she would feel helping a goddess of a rival nation.”Plutia frowned. “It’s not like you’re gonna harm Planeptune, are you?”“It would feel very wrong attacking my birth nation, wouldn’t it?”“Just because it’s your birthplace doesn’t mean you find it important. Besides…” Plutia clutched her chest. “The old Planeptune is gone…”Noire sighed. “I don’t plan on attacking Planeptune, so you don’t need to worry. You already have your hands full with Lowee, right? I don’t want to be part of the war that’s going on.”“Soooooo you’re staying neutral, Noire?” asked the shorter girl.“Yeah.” Noire turned around and walked over to her desk. “I sent a letter to both Planeptune and Lowee as a formal introduction, but I haven’t gotten a reply from White Heart…”“You’re gonna try to negotiate with White Heart?”Noire clenched her hands as she stated, “A majority of Lastation’s population is made from old Planeptunian and Loweean citizens. Even if I want revenge against White Heart, I can’t jeopardize my own people because of personal feelings. So unless one of you targets Lastation, I won’t do anything.” She sat down in her black cushioned chair and gave Plutia a cold look. “So even if we were friends, Plutia, don’t expect me to give you any support or aid.”The shorter girl wore a frown on her face as she stared at the Black CPU with unwavering eyes. “You said ‘were’.”Noire, taken aback, asked, “What?”“We are still friends, Noire. Even if five years have passed.”Noire slowly widened her red eyes when she heard Plutia’s words.“So don’t talk as if we’re no longer friends, because we still are.” Plutia’s demeanor suddenly slackened. “I, at least, still see you as a friend.”Noire smiled as her shoulders relaxed. “I see. I’m sorry for assuming that our friendship ended that day. I, also, still see you as a friend, Plutia.”Plutia’s entire being brightened up as if sparkles started to float around her. “I’m glad! I would be very sad if we were no longer friends. Oh, and don’t worry about the war. I didn’t come here to drag Lastation into my battles. I only wanted to make sure Lastation wouldn’t become an enemy.” Noire nodded as she understood. Having a new nation suddenly appear out of the blue would be worrisome. You wouldn’t know if they were friends or foes after all. “There’s also no need for you to worry, Plutia. I have no business attacking Planeptune. I have my hands full with running my nation. I have no time to worry about you or White Heart.”“Then I hope you’ll achieve what Lilac Heart failed to do! Feel free to call if you ever need help! Planeptune will be your ally even if you remain neutral!”“That wouldn’t be staying neutral, Plutia,” Noire deadpanned. “Oh… well… We’re still friends, though! So I’m happy to help you, Noire!”Noire sighed. “You really haven't changed at all.”“Really? I think I’ve changed a lot as a CPU. You also changed a lot, Noire. You used to be thiiiiiis tall!” Plutia held her hand up to her chin.“It’s been five years, Plutia. I’ve grown since then,” Noire claimed.“But I haven’t gotten taller at all!” Plutia whined, “That’s not faaaaaaair.”“You’re stuck at the age when you become a CPU, so it’s expected that you wouldn’t grow any taller,” informed the twintailed girl.“Eeeeeeh?! Then how did you get so tall, Noire?”“I became a CPU at the age of seventeen, Plutia. Did you think I became a CPU around the same time as you? I became a CPU just last year.”“Oh, right. It’s hard to think you’re older now when I was the older one… So that means I’m stuck as a fourteen-year-old… That’s no fuuuuuun.”Noire chuckled. “Age is no longer a concept for us since we’re goddesses. But even if we won’t ever age, that doesn’t mean we can’t grow as a person. You don’t need to worry about being stuck as a fourteen-year-old, Plutia, because you’ve already matured since the last time I saw you.”Plutia blushed, feeling a bit bashful. “I wouldn’t say that I matured…”Noire denied, “No, you’ve matured. Trust me. You’re no longer the child you used to be.”Plutia pouted as she teased, “I thought you said I haven’t changed?”“You’re personality hasn’t changed. You’re still the same friendly, helpful, plushie-obsessed girl that dreams of sleeping 24/7.”Plutia giggled. “That’s a dream that’ll never come true. Not with Histy constantly yelling at me.”Noire sighed as she rested her chin on her hand. “You have no idea how surprised I was to learn that you became a CPU before me.”Plutia frowned. “Not that I wanted to…” Before her mood could get worse, she tried to think positively. “But your dream came true! You become a CPU and are now in charge of your own nation!”Noire felt pride bubbling up in her chest. “My reason to become a CPU changed a bit, but yes. I did achieve my dream.”Plutia tilted her head in confusion. “Your reason?”The dark-haired girl leaned back against her chair. “Don’t worry about it.” “Okay! Oh! Since we got the meeting out of the way, wanna talk about collaboration?” Plutia’s eyes twinkled as she leaned in close.Noire blinked. “Collaboration?”“Yeah! I thought about it when I bought your console!”She sat up straight. “You bought my console?”Plutia laughed. “Are you not paying attention, Noire? So as I was saaaaaaying! I bought your console because I wanted to play one of Lastation’s games since I can’t play it on a Planeptune console and that’s when an idea came! What if we made our games cross-console playable?! If we did that then there’s no need to buy-”“Okay, I’ll have to stop you right there.” Noire quickly cut the girl off. “The idea of making our games cross-platform compatible certainly would benefit the consumer. I don’t hate the idea, but I have to postpone that for now. It’s a bit too early for me to do anything with Planeptune,” explained the twintailed girl. “We should discuss collaboration, trade, and nation-related topics another day. I only intended for us to meet and have you recognize that Lastation would not cause you any trouble. I didn’t plan for anything more.”“Ooooooh…” The other CPU understood where Noire was coming from. “They do say strike while the iron’s hot, buuuuut I understand if you don’t want to touch on that subject yet. Theeeeeen, I'll hold your word for it! I’ll have Histy help me write the documents and convince you to allow the cross-console games!” Noire rolled her eyes, but she still had a smile on her face. “Sure, Plutia. I’ll be waiting.”“I better let Histy know! She’ll be sooooooo shocked! Oh! And since we got the meeting out of the way early, I expect you to take me around Lastation, Noire! I want to experience the dream yoooooou accomplish!” Plutia turned around and summoned out her screen. She quickly typed up the report to send back to her Oracle.While Plutia was busy, Noire stared at her back with nostalgic eyes. She couldn't help but think back to when she first discovered Plutia as the new CPU of Planeptune. It was shocking, yes, but it worried her. Plutia did not dream of leading people. Her ideal life was simply making plushies and sleeping. She just wanted to flow through life without much thought. So the stress level that Plutia might have from being a CPU made Noire uneasy. It made her even more anxious when she heard Plutia had locked herself away in her Basilicom and barely stepped outside, refusing to see anyone. Not even her. Noire could still remember the lifeless eyes Plutia carried. That was the biggest reason why she became a CPU sooner than anticipated. She became a CPU because… “I wanted to see you, Plutia.”“Hmm?” Plutia glanced back to the dark-haired girl. “Did you say something, Noire?”Noire closed her eyes and answered, “No. I was wondering if you wanted to see the guest room. I remember you used to love afternoon naps.”Plutia’s eyes sparkled. “You remembered?!”Noire snickered, “How can I forget? You would sleep through class all the time.”The two reminisce about their younger days, back when everything was easier. There were no nations to worry about, no expectations, and no fears. They were merely children doing what they were best at, dreaming of a bright future while having fun. But now they have responsibilities. Noire, worried that Plutia would be crushed under those responsibilities, pushed herself to succeed and catch up. Now that she finally saw her in person after five years, her worries disappeared. Seeing the smile on the Iris CPU's face eased her heart. She was relieved—so relieved—to see her friend in good health.“I’m glad you’re doing well, Plutia.”Plutia gave one of her signature bright smiles that Noire always loved to see. “You too, Noire!”

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Planeptune, GamindustriPlace: Planeptune CityDate: August 18, 2007Time: ???
Histoire flew through the air as she took in the destruction of Planeptune. All the years of hard work were gone in minutes. The safety of a home was no more and the ruined city became a monster-invested place. Fear and anxiety plagued her tiny heart as she searched for her friend. The sounds of battle had finally ceased, but there were no signs of any life. Histoire couldn’t stop the shaking in her hands.As she searched around, she noticed something shining in her book. The fairy stopped her movement and looked down at her book to see the words forming on her blank page. What was written caused her face to pale. “No… No! Nepgear!”Filled with disbelief and sadness, the small fairy rushed to the scene. Tears filled her blue eyes as she called out her friend’s name. She refused to believe what was recorded. If it was true then what would become of her? What would become of Planeptune?Loud explosions and screams could be heard all around. Histoire slowly approached the area where Nepgear was last stated in her book. What she saw wasn’t the goddess of Planeptune nor the goddess of Lowee, but someone completely different. She had long iris hair and wore a black processor uniform. “Where are you, Lilac Heart? Come and explain yourself!” She whipped her sword and smashed a large boulder into pieces. “What have you done to me?! Lilac Heart!”Histoire was appalled by this new CPU. Her attitude was similar to that of White Heart’s. This new goddess was born right when Lilac Heart passed. The fairy was curious about what her connection was to Nepgear. She glanced down at the pages of her book. The events have all been recorded now. She didn’t read it over since she was more worried about finding Nepgear. What she read made her burst out with more tears.Histoire looked back at the new goddess with pitiful eyes. “So that’s what you decided, Nepgear? This girl… She’ll be the one to carry on your will. Iris Heart, the new CPU of Planeptune.”Iris Heart let out a crazed laugh. “I see how it is! I defeated White Heart, so now you're scared of me, right?! Well, get your cute little tush out here!!” She charged into a nearby building, breaking through the wall.Histoire winced at her action. “It’s a bit hard to approach when she’s like that…” The tome floated down to the ground and followed the traces of share energy she felt. The closer she got, the more her heart stung. Avoiding the blazing fire around, she came across a large pool of blood, and in the center was a small pink crystal. “Oh… Nepgear…” Histoire picked up the crystal and wiped away the blood with her handkerchief. She gazed at the power symbol in the center and whimpered, “What shall I do, Nepgear? The girl you have chosen might not be the right choice…” Histoire glanced over at the new CPU who stumbled out from the collapsing building.Iris Heart wiped away the blood oozing from her head. “If you don’t come out soon, I’ll have to punish you, Lilac Heart!” She smashed her serrated sword against the ground, flinging dirt and stones into the air. “Stop being the coward you are and explain to me!”Histoire clutched the crystal close to her chest. A newly-born CPU shouldn’t be able to keep her form for that long. Not when she wasn’t supplied with share energy. If she defeated White Heart, she must have depleted the backup energy from the CPU memory she consumed. She’ll faint soon if she keeps up that form.As if on cue, Iris Heart began to wobble. She was losing energy fast. The goddess thrust her sword into the ground and used it as support to keep herself upright. She took many deep breaths as the fatigue settled in. Tears formed in the corner of her eyes as she whimpered, “If you’re not here, then what the hell does that mean for me?”Histoire didn’t expect to see the raging goddess cry. What looked like a frightening beast had cooled down to a whimpering pup. Iris Heart slowly dropped to her knees as tears freely flowed down her cheeks. “You turned me into this and then abandoned me? What happened to wanting to protect me, you bitch…” Iris Heart shut her eyes as she thought of Lilac Heart’s face. “You’re the one who told me to live! You’re the one who wanted me to see you as a goddess again, so where the fuck did run off to?! Lilac Heart!”

“I see…” Histoire murmured. “So you’re hurting too…” What she felt was fear turned to empathy for the new goddess. “There’s nothing left for me here… My parents, my friends… my home…” Iris Heart pulled the sword out from the ground and rested it against her shoulder, with the blade towards her neck. “Someone like me… doesn’t deserve to be alive…”Histoire’s chest lurched from what she was seeing. “NO!!!” The tome flew at full force and rammed into Iris Heart’s back.“Wha-!” Iris Heart fell forward and her sword slipped from her grip, sliding across the ground.“Who do you think you are to take the life Nepgear worked so hard to protect!” Histoire screamed.Iris Heart turned around to see the small fairy. “You’re…”“You are all she had left!” Histoire zoomed in close to the CPU’s face and shouted with fury. “I will not let her sacrifice die in vain, you hear me?!” Iris Heart scowled, “What do you know, you dumb bug?! Lilac Heart ran away leaving me to take care of White Heart! What kind of goddess does that?! She’s nothing but a coward! Just like what White Heart said!!”“If you’re talking about Nepgear, she didn’t run away. She’s been here this entire time!” Histoire threw the crystal at Iris Heart, who easily caught it. “Nepgear… Lilac Heart. Didn’t run. She’s been watching you until the last of her breath, so don’t call her a coward when you know nothing about her!”Iris Heart peered down at the glowing crystal in her hand. She could feel the energy radiating off it. “You mean… This is…”“She exchanged her life for yours…” Histoire hiccuped as hot tears poured down her face. Her nose turned red from the mucus. “She chose you to carry on her will. She made you into a CPU! You will not insult Nepgear… Lilac Heart in my presence! Not after everything she did!”Iris Heart gritted her teeth as frustration boiled deep in her heart. She stood up on her heels and threw the crystal to the ground with great force. Histoire gasped as she flew down to retrieve the core. She carefully held it in her palms while glaring at the iris goddess.“Who asked her to make me a goddess?! I never wanted this!” Iris Heart seethed. “All she cared about was herself! She never thought about me! She can have fun in hell for all I care!”“Tch! You, shut up!” Histoire leaped off the ground and head-butted Iris Heart in the chin.Iris Heart yelped as she fell back on her back. “So what if she didn’t think about your feelings?! Do you think she cared about that when her nation, her people; when everything was destroyed right before her eyes?! How do you think she felt?! She thought about the future!” Histoire screamed. “She thought about the future where you can save and bring everything back! And you will do it!” Histoire pointed. “I don’t care what you want, but I will guide you and make you into a proper goddess like Lilac Heart wants! You can hate me, but this is what will happen! Whether you like it or not!” The blonde tome deeply huffed after all that yelling. She was so upset with this new goddess that she wanted to beat her up with her tiny fists.“Hic…” Iris Heart quivered as she covered her eyes with her arms. “But I… I can’t do it…”Histoire cleared her throat as she felt her anger calming. She slowly hovered over to Iris Heart to see the tears rolling down from behind her arms. “Whether you can or can’t. You won’t know unless you try…”Light surrounded Iris Heart as her transformation was released. Her long hair weaved together into a braid as her body shrunk, covered in a teal dress. Plutia whimpered and hiccuped as she cried, “I can’t be what Lilac Heart wants me to be. I can’t do it… I can’t… Why did she have to go? Why did she have to leave…”Histoire lowered herself beside Plutia’s head and whispered, “All life comes to an end. Even for a goddess.” The fairy looked at the crystal and smiled. “But even if she’s gone… Nepgear… Lilac Heart will always be watching over us.”Plutia shifted her arms away and glanced at Histoire with puffy red eyes. “W-What do I do now?”“All you can do is live on for Lilac Heart’s sake,” Histoire voiced as she held out the crystal. “Because through your memories, she will live on. As long as you remember her, Lilac Heart will forever be alive. So please… live. Live on.”Plutia’s lips quivered as she took a sharp intake of air. The pain in her chest didn’t go away as she stared into Histoire’s glossy blue eyes. She could feel the sorrow in them. Amid fire and destruction, Plutia didn’t feel so alone. She wasn’t the only one hurting. With all of her strength, she gripped Histoire's little hand, which contained the CPU memory.“I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” Plutia cried. “I’m so sorry!”Histoire cried along with Plutia. “It’s okay… It’s okay. You must have been so scared.” The tome moved in close and pressed herself against Plutia’s head. “I’m sorry too.”The two cried together, letting out all their feelings. The ones they lost are the ones they will never forget. The memories of Lilac Heart will be what keep them going. 
Planeptune, GamindustriPlace: Planeptune CityDate: August 30, 2012Time: 12:30 P.M.
Histoire held the crystal by the thin chain. Her blue eyes always soften upon seeing it. She carefully hooked it around Plutia’s neck and closed the clip. Floating before the girl, she admired how the crystal hung around Plutia’s chest. A small smile stretched across her face.But said smile quickly fell to a frown when she saw how Plutia’s head bounced. Her eyes were closed as drool slowly leaked from her lips. “Plutia! How long are you going to sleep?!”“Wah!” Plutia jerked awake from her Oracle’s voice.“Don’t think you can slack off after coming back from Lastation! There’s still work to be done!” claimed Histoire.Plutia pouted as she rubbed her tired eyes. “Awwwwwwe…”“And I haven’t forgotten about you transforming! You’re lucky that the new CPU was actually someone you know!” “But you toooooold me not to step into the city transfoooooormed.”“There was supposed to be no transforming in general!” Histoire screeched.“Hiiiiiiisty, you’re too looooooud!” Plutia whined.Histoire covered her face as she groaned. “Dear, Lilac Heart, please have mercy on my sanity.”Plutia giggled as she tucked the crystal beneath her clothes. “Okay, okaaaaaay. I’ll get to work. Don’t worry, Histy. I don’t want you growing white hairs.”Histoire sighed. “That’s something I don’t want either. Your late breakfast has already been made, so don’t forget to eat it.”Plutia beamed. “Thanks, Histy! I can always count on you!”Histoire slowly floated behind as Plutia skipped out of the room. The tome watched her as a smile returned to her face. “You’ve come a long way, Plutia. I’m proud of you.”

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Planeptune, GamindustriPlace: Planeptune CityDate: September 23, 2012Time: 1:41 P.M.
Plutia stared at the pile of rock and glass. Beneath the rumble, she could see the bodies of her parents. Blood surrounded her feet, soaking into her shoes. Her magenta eyes showed hollowness with heavy bags underneath.Something grabbed onto her shoulder and forced her to turn around. Plutia came face to face with Lilac Heart. The goddess had a crazed look in her eyes as she grinned. “Fight the war in my place! Raise Planeptune once more! You can do it, I know you can!” Lilac Heart shook the motionless girl. “You are Planeptune’s last hope! You will be its greatest ruler!”Plutia snapped her eyes open to find a group of blue dogoos around her. She blinked away the sleepiness and noticed something wrong. The weight around her neck was a lot lighter than she remembered. She peeked into the top part of her dress to see it missing.“Lilac Heart!” Plutia stood up in a panic and searched around with flustered eyes. She then finally saw a dogoo that had the crystal in its mouth. Plutia clenched her hands and marched up to the dogoo.

She lifted her foot and smashed the small creature, killing it. The other dogoos jerked and ran away. Plutia picked up the fallen necklace and sighed with relief. The chain doesn’t seem to be broken so the dogoo must have slipped it off her while she was asleep. Plutia wrapped the chain around her neck and fiddled with the clasp. She eventually succeeded in hooking the crystal back around her neck.Plutia finally relaxed now that the crystal was back in her grasp. “Hmmm… Where am I?” She examined her surroundings and found that she was at the edge of Planeptune City. She closed her eyes, trying to remember the last thing she was doing. “Oh right! I was doing quests! And then I was gonna head back to turn them into the guild. I must have fallen asleep on the way.” She laughed at her own forgetfulness. “Silly, me!”To submit her work and return to Planeptower, Plutia rushed to the guild. Along the way, Plutia waved to a few people walking past. Some happily smiled at her while others awkwardly waved and hurried away. Plutia understood she wasn't loved by everyone, but was at least respected. Of course, some people outright rejected her existence and she could do nothing to make them happy even if she tried.After turning in the completed quests to the guild, Plutia happily went to Planeptower to take her much-needed afternoon nap. She woke up early today to do those monster-clearing quests per Histy orders and could use the shut-eye. Seeing the Basilicom, she saw a group of her staff members right at the front entrance. Plutia was about to call out to them when she noticed a small blonde girl in a pink dress. She instantly shut her mouth and hid behind a corner. The goddess peaked out to observe the situation.“Not her agaaaaaaaaain,” Plutia whined.Plutia didn’t think she would see the girl dressed in pink again. The last time she was here, she complained about Plutia forcing little girls to become CPUs. If anything, Plutia was the victim since she was forced to become a CPU at the time. Plutia couldn’t even clear the misunderstanding since the other girl insulted her on multiple occasions. Plutia got so sad and depressed that she had hidden away. Histy had to ban the girl from entering the Basilicom.“What do I dooooo?” Plutia whimpered as she slid down the wall. “Do I wait until she's gone?”Plutia glanced at the crystal hanging around her neck and clutched it in her hands. She didn’t want to face the girl in pink, so she could only hide there. She feared that she might lose control of herself and Plutia already has a track record of transforming recklessly because she couldn’t handle her emotions. She could already hear the faint whisper in the back of her head, urging her to become Iris Heart.Plutia closed her eyes and tightened her hold on the crystal. “No. I won’t transform.” It would be bad if she did anyway. And Histoire would surely scold her if she did.“Plutia? What are you doing on the floor?”Plutia looked up and was met with questioning red eyes. She instantly brightened up at seeing the black-haired girl. “Noire? Wow! It’s been a while! How have you been?! What are you doing here?!”“It has been a while. And I’ve been good. Also, you invited me over to talk about trade and border negotiations,” Noire reminded her. “Did you forget?”“Oh, yeeeeeeah! Hehehe.”Noire lightly bonked Plutia on the head. “That’s something you shouldn’t be forgetting. So? Why are you out here?”Plutia deflated like a balloon. “I’m hiding.”She gave the shorter girl a puzzled look. “From what?” “From her.” Plutia pointed around the corner.Noire followed her finger to see the girl in pink, yelling at the Basilicom staff members. “Oh, her, Abnes. I didn’t think I’d see her again.”“You knoooooow her, Noire?”“Yeah, she came by my Basilicom one day as well. She complained about Lastation forcing little girls to work. She thought my people were forcing a little girl to be their CPU, but when she saw me, she completely shut her mouth.”Plutia giggled, “Noire isn’t a little girl. You’re a very pretty lady!”Noire blushed at the comment. “E-Exactly! But yeah, she was causing a lot of trouble so I banned her from ever setting foot in Lastation City.”“Oooooh, that’s smart. Histy banned her from entering the Planeptower. She’s been bullying me ever since I reopened Planeptune’s borders to people outside the nation.”Noire narrowed her eyes. “She’s been bullying you?”“Uh-huh. She said I was forcing little girls to become CPUs. Then she went and said that I was breaking the laaaaaaaw. But I’ve been doing noooooone of that,” explained the iris goddess.“Oh, so she said the same thing to you.”“Then she said I shouldn’t be a CPU because I’m a little girl. She said my people are weirdos and that made me saaaaaad. My people are nice! They would never force me to do anything.” Plutia pouted as she hugged her knees.Noire could tell that the shorter girl was bothered by it. She huffed, “Wait here.”“Noire?”Plutia watched the other CPU walk over to the Basilicom’s entrance. Her eyes widened when she saw Noire yelling at Abnes. Their voices were so loud that they were drawing attention. Noire then commanded the staff and Anbes was dragged away. Plutia’s jaw dropped as Noire walked back to her.“There. Now, you don’t have to hide.”Plutia beamed. “Woooooow, Noire! You’re so amazing!”“Hmph!” Noire smirked as she crossed her arms. “Of course, I’m amazing. You just need to be more aggressive since people like her don’t listen. She won’t be back for a while so you don’t have to worry anymore, Plutia.”“You’re sooooooo nice, Noire!”“C-Come on, let’s go inside,” urged the blushing Black CPU.The two girls entered Planeptower and were greeted by the staff. They rode the elevator up and headed to Plutia’s office. The iris goddess burst through the door, shocking the blonde fairy inside. Plutia made a mad dash and jumped onto the couch. “My safe place!” Histoire floated over and scolded, “Plutia, it is rude to burst into the room like that. It is not goddess-like!”“Let her be. She had a rough time trying to get through the Basilicom’s doors,” Noire informed. “Histoire, it is nice to meet you in person.”The tome floated over and greeted, “It’s also nice to meet you in person, Lady Black Heart. Thank you for coming over. I hope the trip was pleasant?”“You can just call me Noire. And coming back to Planeptune brought many memories. It looks a bit different, but it was like Planeptune never fell.”Histoire smiled. “Planeptune is doing very well. Plutia made an effort to restore Planeptune to its former glory.”Noire smirked. “I’m quite impressed. The girl that would always sleep during class doing so much work.”Histoire sadly sighed. “Yes, but only when told. Otherwise, she would sleep the day away without knowing.”The black goddess laughed. “Now that sounds more like Plutia. And speaking of the devil…” Noire turned to the couch. “Plutia! Don’t fall asleep!”“I’m nooooot!” Plutia sat up and pouted. “Don’t assume I’ll just fall asleep, though… I dooooo kinda wanna sleep.”Noire sighed, “Of course, you do… Hmmm?” Her red eyes glanced up to see the oversized portrait on the wall. “Woah! Is that Lilac Heart? I didn’t know you had a large portrait of her here.”“Yes. It’s so we can remember her,” Histoire answered.“You guys must love her a lot, then. She was an amazing goddess. Someone I admired. I’m sure you must be happy to inherit her nation, Plutia!”The iris goddess frowned and Histoire tensed up. Noire noticed the change in their attitude and asked, “What’s wrong?”Histoire was the first to speak up, hoping to steer the topic away. “Ah, Noire you came to talk about negotiations, right? We were thinking of selling our cross-console playable games in your nation!”“Eh? You already put that into action?”Histoire blinked. “Plutia gave us the green light to go and make Planeptune games playable for Lastation consoles… I assumed you permitted us…”The two turned to look at Plutia who turned her eyes away. Histoire sighed as Noire stomped over and bonked her head. Plutia whined as she rubbed where Noire hit.“You idiot! Didn’t I say to postpone that stuff?!” Noire shouted.“B-B-But… I just thought I could get the research started. It’s not like I announced it to the public. I waaaaaaas gonna wait for your permission still,” Plutia explained.“Even so! To do that behind my back is breaching my trust!”Plutia apologized, “I’m soooooorry…”Noire sighed, “I did plan to accept that proposal so everything turned out fine, but what would you have done if I never agreed?”Plutia blinked and then smiled happily as she stated, “I’ll keep asking until you agree!”Noire held her head feeling a light headache coming along. “You are a fearsome goddess, Plutia.”The girl only giggled, “Hehehe.”Histoire groaned, “That is something you should not be laughing about.”“I’ll get started on those cross-console playable games on my end then. It would be nice to make a profit from Planeptune. I would also like to construct a safe path from and to Planeptune as we are on good terms.”“Oh, oh, oh! We can extend our trains toward Lastation! Those who wish to travel back and forth might benefit from it,” Plutia proposed.Histoire nodded, liking the idea. “It would stop you from flying too, Plutia.”The Iris CPU pursed her lips. “Is that all you think about, Histy? Finding ways where I won’t need to transform?”“It is for the good of Gamindustri,” she stated.“You’re so meeeeeean,” Plutia whined.“I’ve only ever seen Iris Heart on the screen, but is it that bad when she transforms?” Noire questioned.“Have you heard the rumors surrounding Planpetune’s CPU?” Histoire asked.“That she’s a crazy sadistic CPU that likes to torment people?”Histoire blankly laughed. “Hahaha, yeah, that’s all true.”Plutia fiddled with her fingers as she defended herself. “I’m not thaaaaat bad. I’ve gotten better at controlling myself.”Noire felt a single sweat drop. “I’m a bit scared to see…”Histoire clapped her hands, putting an end to this discussion. “Anyway. I will pass on the finished paperwork and retrieve the ones that would be needed for our negotiations. I’ll be right back!” The fairy flew toward the desk, collected the papers, and flew out the door.“Noire, Noire!”The twintailed goddess felt her sleeve being tugged. “Hmm? What’s up?”Plutia grinned and pointed to the other side of the room where she could see a television with two types of consoles hooked up. “Wanna try playing a Planeptune game on your console? They’re mostly prototypes, but they should work.”Noire smirked as her eyes glimmered. “What game?”

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??? , GamindustriPlace: ???Date: September 26, 2012Time: 4:47 P.M.
A large round table with seven tall seats stood in the dimly lit room. Each chair was occupied, but one, as the person herself was too agitated to sit still. “Who does she think she is, banning me from Planeptune City like that?” Abnes complained as she stomped her foot. “All I did was voice my complaints to Planeptune’s Basilicom! There's a thing called freedom of speech! What was she even doing in Planeptune anyway!? She’s not even their CPU!”“Calm down, chu. You didn’t come here just to complain, did you?”Abnes felt a vein pop as she shouted, “Shut up, you rat!”“It’s Warechu, chu!” The chubby little rat crossed his arms as his spade tail swished around.“You both should be quiet,” said the witch-like woman.“Um…” The woman with long blue hair fidgeted in her seat. “Th-Thank you all so much for coming to the Seven Sages Headquarters today. I-I know some have traveled…. a long way…”“Hey! I’m sitting on the other side of the table! Can’t you speak a little louder!” shouted the green and orange robot.“O-Oh! I apologize, Copypaste! I-It’s just… a bit hard for me… to speak up…”“Why did we make this wuss our leader again, chu?”“W-W-W-W-Wuss?! I-I may not be the bravest here, but at least I’m not the weakest!”Warechu rolled his eyes. “Suuuuuure, chu.”“Okay, enough cutie pies. Little Rei here is just a bit shy. Cruel to tease her like that.”Rei softly smiled at the man wearing the full-body mech suit. “T-Thank you, Anonydeath.”“Can’t we hurry this meeting up?” The man in the black suit looked at his wristwatch and said, “I’m a very busy man with a hectic schedule to keep.”“O-Of course, Badd…”“That would be ‘Mr.’ Badd to you.” He readjusted his glasses with a frown on his face.Rei stuttered as she corrected herself, “M-Mr. Badd!”“Who even called this meeting? I came a long way to this damned HQ, so if it's about something trivial, someone’s dead.”Rei turned to the woman with the pointed hat. “U-Um…. I was the one who called today's meeting, Arfoire… I-I wanted to talk about-”“That arrogant, snotty, self-conceited CPU of Lastation!” Abnes finished Rei’s sentence as she finally sat in her seat.Rei cleared her throat and continued. “Y-Yes… It seems that Lastation’s CPU is on good terms with Planeptune’s CPU.”Copypaste slammed his hands against the table. “Get outta town?! With that monster?!”“I can’t think of anyone being on good terms with Planeptune’s CPU,” Mr. Badd voiced.“Well, they sure are! They are both forcing kids to work!” Abnes accused.Anonydeath hummed as he tapped the metal table’s surface. “I don’t know how close they are, but my research has shown them working together. Just yesterday, they announced that a new train station is in the works for free movement between Planeptune and Lastation.”“That’s quite something, chu. With the way Planpetune’s CPU is, I thought they would start duking it out already, chu.”“So that’s why Lowee’s shares have been dropping,” Mr. Badd grumbled. “This is quite the predicament.”“Y-Yes… because two CPUs are working together, people have thought that CPUs are good,” Rei said. “T-They are completely disregarding the fact that White Heart and Iris Heart are at war with each other…”“If CPUs always clash when seen together, people wouldn’t want CPUs around, but seeing two CPUs being able to work together peacefully destroyed that stigma,” Anonydeath concluded.“Is it not time to put White Heart back into action?” Arfoire asked Mr. Badd. “The war is at a stalemate currently and people are starting to think the war has ended…”Mr. Badd repositioned his round glasses and sighed, “White Heart wouldn’t come out of her Basilicom. After her defeat by the current CPU of Planeptune, she’s been completely traumatized. One can only imagine what she went through by that monster of a CPU.”Rei whimpered, “The plan was going so well when Lilac Heart fell…”“Who knew a new CPU of Planeptune would arise from that outcome, chu chu chu,” Warechu laughed.“Whatever had happened, White Heart refused to touch Planeptune directly since that day,” Mr. Badd informed. “I’m able to manage the Loweean borders and send the air force to keep pushing that tiny nation, but that CPU would shoot them down before even flying a mile into her nation! It’s taking a lot of our resources so I have no choice but to back down for now.”“If we are no longer able to touch Planeptune with Lowee, why not direct our attention to Lastation? This should not be a big problem for White Heart, as the country is run by a rookie CPU, right?” Arfoire suggested.Mr. Badd grumbled, “I can try, but I cannot promise anything. Lastation’s CPU also sent a letter of formal introductions. Luckily, I handled Lowee’s documents before they ever met White Heart’s eyes. She only knows of Lastation’s neutral standing at the moment.”The news deflated Rei. “S-So we can’t touch Lastation with White Heart either then if she knows of Lastation's position in war…”Mr. Badd adjusted his glasses as he repeated, “That’s why I said ‘I can try’. The sound of Planeptune and Lastation on excellent relations bothers me as much as it does for you all. It would affect the frozen war. All I can do is pull some strings.”“All I care about is freedom for the children! If you can do that, I don’t care how you deal with Planeptune or Lastation,” Abnes claimed.“Hmmmm, I’ll see if I can pull off anything myself.” Arfoire hummed as she observed her painted black nails.“T-T-Then that will be the plan… W-We shall find ways to stop Planeptune and Lastation’s growing relationship!”Anonydeath clapped. “Well said, Rei.”Rei grinned, feeling somewhat more confident. “M-Meeting adjourned!”
Lastation, GamindustriPlace: Jet Set RangeDate: September 29, 2012Time: 3:02 P.M.
Noire sliced through the flower monster with her sword. She twisted her body and kicked a sunflowery that leaped at her. The CPU quickly cut through the horde of plant monsters in the area. The sooner the area was cleaned out of monsters the faster the train rails could be set up. Since Jet Set Range was the safest route to Planeptune, it was the designed place to set up the train rails. Of course, as this was a trade and mercenary route, the rails would not be placed directly on the main road, but rather a few miles away. Additionally, there was a village close by, so the trains could bring in more guests. “Ugh!” Noire was suddenly tackled from behind. She quickly caught her footing and turned around to see the red and white mushroom monster. “Why you!” She thrust her sword through its face and sliced upwards. The goddess took a moment to catch her breath. The monsters here aren’t that strong, but there sure were a massive amount of them. A lot more than Noire last remembered. She’s already been at it for hours. It will take a few more days for the rails to be started on her end.“Squwaaaaa!”“Huh!” Noire was caught off guard by the shaking ground. She glanced back to see the oversized blue bird that squawked. “A shoebill!”The shoebill swung its head and Noire rapidly rolled away as it pecked the round. Noire gripped her sword and dashed at the large body. The monster flapped its wings and sent Noire back. The Black CPU crashed into the sunflowery, softening her back. The sunflowery immediately clung to her body, trapping her.“H-Hey, get off of me!”“Squaaaaa!”The shoebill charged at the CPU, its talons flicking up dirt in the process. Noire screamed to see the large monster coming at her.“Hyaaaaa!”Abruptly, a strong kick knocked the shoebill away. It rolled across the ground and struck a tree with a pained squawk. “Plutia!”Plutia turned to the girl covered in plant monsters. She swung her serrated sword at Noire, creating a powerful gust of wind. The sunflowery lost their grip and were carried away by the wind.“Behind you, Plutia!” Noire warned.The shoebill had gotten up and was already behind the other goddess. Plutia glanced up to see the large beak coming down on her. The girl didn’t flinch as she used her sword to parry the bill. She leaped off the ground, doing a backflip. Her soft slippers smack the bird in the face as if they were made of bricks. As soon as she landed on her feet, she spun around, using the momentum to slash her sword at the shoebill. In the process, she summoned her Nepgear plushie in her other hand and slammed it at the bird sending it flying.

The shoebill gave its last squawk as it exploded into little light particles.  Plutia’s shoulders relaxed as she let out a relieved sigh. “Phew! Noire, are you okaaaaaay?”Noire was staring at the shorter girl with a shocked frozen expression. She knew Plutia was strong in her HDD form, but she never actually saw the girl fight in person. She didn’t think someone as sluggish as Plutia could move like that. It was almost like she was a completely different person. No wonder Plutia was the feared CPU of Planeptune. Plutia blinked as she waved her hand in front of Noire’s face. “Noire? Did you fall asleeeeeep?” The Black CPU blinked. “How can I sleep after what just happened? By the way… was it smart to use Lilac Heart like that?” Noire pointed to the poor caved-in plushie of Nepgear. “I feel like you’re being a bit disrespectful by using it as a weapon…”Plutia dematerialized her sword and held up the plushie with both hands. She beamed. “Oh, it’s okay! I made this plushie!” Plutia pulled and squeezed the plushie and it went back to its original shape as if it was never used to abuse any monster. “Seeeeeeee?! Good as new! I made sure this Lilac Heart doll wouldn’t break so easily!”Noire hesitantly chuckled. “Wow… I wonder how this harmless-looking plushie was able to deal damage to a monster. Did you stuff it with bricks?”Plutia giggled, “Oh, silly Noire! That would make this plushie un-huggable!” The Iris goddess squeezed the doll in her arms. “It's stuffed with cotton! Soooooo soft and squeezable! Would you like one?!”“Ah, I’m good,” Noire turned down the offer. “So what are you doing here?”Plutia stuffed the doll into her inventory and answered, “I came to see how the progress on the rails was. I already cleaned out the Jet Set Range on my end, so the construction has already started.”Noire became shocked. “That quickly?!”“Weeeeeeell, there weren’t a lot of monsters at my end.” Plutia sparkled as she announced, “They seem to run away whenever I appear!”Noire felt like she was slapped in the face. No wonder there were so many monsters on her end. It was because they escaped to Lastation when Plutia went to clean out Jet Set Range.  “It looks like you might need some time to clear out the area, I’ll leave you to it! Since I’ve checked up on you as Histy asked, I’ll go take my nap now!” Noire grabbed Plutia’s shoulder before she could run off, “Oh, I’m putting you to work, Plutia. This was your fault, after all.”“Eh?” Plutia blinked in confusion. “Whaaaaaaat do you mean?!”“You’re the reason why there are so many monsters here in the first place!” Noire exploded. “I’m not letting you off the hook! Do you have any idea how long I’ve been killing monsters?! There’s no progress! I can even see another herd of monsters right now!” Noire pointed to the horizon where they could see a mob of wiggling flower and mushroom monsters on the grasslands. “You will be helping me!”“B-B-But my naaaaaaaap…” Plutia whined.“You can nap when we’ve finished clearing out the monsters!” Noire stated as she pulled Plutia by the back of her dress. The shorter goddess didn’t resist as she was dragged down the dirt pathway. “Awwwwwwwwe…”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Planeptune, Gamindustri
Place: Planeptune City
Date: April 19, 2008
Time: ???
The blonde receptionist kept quiet as she watched the two guards block the way of the teenage girl. “Please, let me see Plutia!” she pleaded.“I’m sorry, young lady, but our goddess is not seeing anyone!”Noire tried to push her way through, but the two guards pushed her back. She had come all this way to see her friend and was rejected. The dark-haired girl thought she had lost everyone that day, so seeing Plutia's face on Nepstation surprised her. Someone she knew also survived that night. Noire must see Plutia.“I’m her friend! I just want to see her!” Noire pleaded with the receptionist, “Please, just let her know who I am!” The receptionist was troubled. “Even if you say that…”“Our goddess has never once met with anyone outside our Military or employees,” stated the guard. “If you want to speak with someone then you’ll have to wait for our Oracle instead.”Noire gritted her teeth. “Please. Plutia is all I have left! Just a glance is all I need! I just want to know if she’s all right!”“Our goddess is doing just fine. Now, please leave before we force you.”The girl clenched her hands, refusing to move. “No.”The two guards sighed. They didn’t want to lay their hands on a young girl, but Noire left them with no choice. They each grabbed her arm and dragged her towards the glass doors.“Unhand me! I just want to see my friend!” Noire struggled against their grips. It didn’t hurt, but the pain in her heart almost brought her to tears. “Plutia!”And as if the universe had heard her call, the girl Noire wanted to see appeared around the corner. Her eyes lit up as she called to the shorter girl on the other side of the lobby. “Plutia!”The guards froze and turned to see their goddess staring down the path she was taking. Noire’s smile slowly fell as she noticed something wrong with the girl. “Plutia? Plutia!”Registering the call of her name, the Iris CPU turned to look at the lobby area. Her eyes were dull and hollow as they looked around. Her arms hung lifelessly by her side, and her shoulders slouched like bricks weighed them down. Her skin was sickly pale and there were heavy bags under her eyes.Noire felt her heart crack. “Plutia?”The shorter girl’s attention finally landed on Noire and her eyes were cold. The dark-haired girl felt her throat tightened as Plutia stared at her like a stranger. The guards reacted by straightening and saluting. Other than that, no sounds were made. Plutia didn’t even bother to walk over and greet them. She just stared. And when Plutia looked away to continue her way down the hall, Noire felt her world go dark. “No, wait! Plutia, it’s me! Noire! Don’t you recognize me?!” She ripped herself away from the guards to chase after the shorter girl.“Hey!” The guards quickly caught up to Noire and dragged her away. The dark-haired girl kicked and screamed, resisting the guards as much as she could. “Let me go! Something is wrong with Plutia! What have you all done to her?!”“There is nothing wrong with our goddess! Now please leave!”They pushed Noire out the glass doors and closed them shut. The twintailed girl stumbled and fell to her knees. She gritted her teeth and tried to open the door only to find them locked. She was shocked by this action as the Basilicom doors were never locked during working hours. “Plutia! Plutia!” Noire cried out as she banged against the glass doors, not caring who was looking. She tried to force her way in, but the doors wouldn’t budge. The dark-haired girl dropped down to her knees as she stared at her reflection in the glass. The image of cold magenta eyes burned deep in her mind, making her feel like shit. “Plutia… wait for me…”Taking a deep breath, Noire got back on her feet and dusted her skirt. It has been two years since she last saw Plutia. Now that she knows Plutia is still alive, she will do whatever it takes to see her again. The lifeless eyes of her old friend made her irritated. It reminded Noire of herself. When she lost everything. But she was saved from despair thanks to the other survivors of Planeptune… Then what about Plutia? Plutia must have lost people that were important to her. Did she have to go through that pain alone? Was anyone there to comfort Plutia when she lost everything? How did Plutia live with that sense of guilt of not being able to save her loved ones? Noire didn’t know. She didn’t know anything about the current Plutia. And that made her frustrated.“Plutia…”Eyes burning with yearning, Noire marched away from the Basilicom, from Planeptune, and from Plutia. Until the day her dream was achieved, Noire would do everything she could to become strong.Memories of the girl’s bright smile filled her mind. The warmth and love Plutia brought to her life. Her best friend… She will do whatever she can to see that girl again!“Wait for me, Plutia! I’ll become a CPU and see you!”
Lastation, Gamindustri
Place: Basilicom
Date: October 1, 2012
Time: 7:00 A.M.
The blaring sound of the alarm clock rang through the dark room. The groggy girl opened her red eyes to see the black ceiling. She groaned and turned to her side, pulling the warm blanket over her head.A dream down memory lane was probably what they call it. How long has it been since then? Three years. And it took her two years to get her hands on a CPU Memory after she decided to put all her efforts into meeting Plutia. Oh, how a long way she’s come.Deciding that she slept enough, she sat up with a yawn. She turned to the side table and turned off the annoying sound of her alarm. Her eyes then wandered to the framed photo beside her alarm. It was a photo of her and another girl. The photo was dirty and burnt around the edges, even the left-bottom corner was completely ripped off. But this was the only family photo Noire was able to recover.Her lips softly curled as she looked over the girl’s dark hair and familiar red eyes. “Good morning, Uni…”The CPU stretched her limbs and climbed out of her bed. She moved over to her window and pushed the blue curtains aside to see the sun peaking over the horizon of Lastation.Pride filled her chest at how big her nation had grown over the last year. She’ll do her best today as well! For her people, her nation, and herself!“Let’s get the day started!”
Lowee, Gamindustri
Place: Basilicom
Date: October 1, 2012
Time: 10:33 A.M.
Walking down the matted hallway, he turned to the pale bamboo doors. He gently slid it open and walked into the office. He faced the goddess who calmly read through multiple documents on her desk.

He cleared his throat, letting his presence be known. “Pardon me, Lady Blanc. I have compiled my report.”The brunette glanced up from her desk. She fixed her glasses and smiled. “Oh. Good work, Mr. Badd.”“If I can give it a quick summary…” He placed his report on her desk and started, “It would seem Lastation is in a state of exponential growth. It would be accurate to call it a true explosion of activity.”Blanc picked up the papers and huffed, “That much, huh?”Mr. Badd nodded. “Indeed. Those outside of Lowee who showed no interest in CPUs or games are migrating there. Which would not be an issue if that were the only outcome, but…”The brunette sighed as she played with the large beads on her bracelet. “It’s fine. Just say it.”“Um, yes, well…” Mr. Badd was hesitant, but still announced, “A significant number of Loweeans have chosen to move to Lastation, as well…”“Of course… Not that I haven’t noticed…”“It may have been rash for us to approve free immigration into and out of our nation…”Blanc rolled her blue eyes. “If I didn’t, I’d be getting many complaints. After that monster opened her borders for easier migration, how do you think my people would feel if I don’t follow suit?”“But even so, we are different from Planeptune…”The White CPU groaned, “It doesn’t matter. People had been whining about only being able to play our games while living here. It’s better to give them a bit of freedom.”Mr. Badd sighed, “Until recently, Lowee was the only CPU-led nation in this continent. Only we could give them peace of mind. Since we are no longer alone, the people seek a new paradise. Faith is such a fickle concept.”Blanc only made a sour face.“Do you not intend to take action, Lady Blanc? As your minister, I wish you would show some sign of concern…”She gritted her teeth and slammed her fist against her desk. “I HAVE taken action! I took your advice about getting rid of Lilac Heart!!! And look where that got me!!”Mr. Badd gulped. “I-I will admit that the rise of a new CPU of Planeptune was unexpected, but…”“Shut up!” Blanc snapped.“But should this trend continue, we will lose Lowee’s long-standing superior position for good!”“That monster was WORSE than Lilac Heart!!” Blanc shouted at the top of her lungs.Mr. Badd was shaking on the spot. He didn’t intend to get Blanc riled up, he only hoped to give her some motivation. It would be bad if she transformed and went on a rampage. “Please calm down, Lady Blanc. It was not my intention to anger you…”“The humiliation I got that day has been burned into me!” Blanc hugged her shoulders as she shook. “You will never understand what I went through. That CPU was no goddess! She was a monster!”Mr. Badd softened his eyes. “Lady Blanc…”“I had a better time dealing with that coward of a CPU than that… that…” Blanc shifted her eyes around trying to think of a word, “THING!”“Lady Iris Heart is truly frightening, but she is a goddess like you. Just like Lilac Heart, she can be taken down.”Blanc glared down at her desk and voiced, “Get out…”“Lady Blanc, please. Have you given up fighting for Lowee?”“I said get out!!” Mr. Badd sighed as he shook his head. “My apologies, but if you just review the report I compiled, you will understand my worries. With that said, excuse me.”He turned around and left her office, sliding the bamboo doors close. Blanc took a deep breath and calmed her emotions. She inspected the documents her Minister had brought her and frowned.Blanc’s fist quivered as her knuckles turned white. “It’s not like I’m sitting around doing nothing. Every day I try to leave these walls, but…” Blanc whimpered when memories of that day plagued her mind. “Damn it!” She slammed her hands against her desk, feeling the sting against her palms. Every time she stepped outside, she’d panic. It felt like the Planpetune’s CPU was always around the corner to kill her. She could only feel safe locked behind her doors like a coward and Blanc hated it. She hated this feeling. It was the same feeling she had towards Lilac Heart. She hated how Lilac Heart was weaker than her but was more successful as a goddess. She hated how Lilac Heart didn’t fight and was able to get what she wanted. She hated those kinds of cowards who never had to work hard. She was a CPU before Lilac Heart and yet that coward got everything handed to her on a silver plate!She won’t allow it! Lilac Heart was no more! She shouldn’t be comparing herself to the dead. Blanc will achieve everything with her own hands unlike her! All she has to do is manage that new Planeptune CPU somehow.“Just how…”An image of Iris Heart’s crazed smile flashed before her eyes. Her body quivered as she remembered the pain.“Just how do I kill that monster?!”