Author's Note

Wondering which swimsuit got the highest vote?  Find out in this chapter. Alright, let's begin.

Y/N's P.O.V (Lastation's Basilicom)

It's been almost a month and a half since my arrival here at Gamindustri. Despite the long time, I still haven't found a method for me to go back home. But I prefer staying positive than negative. Besides, living in a world like this isn't half bad.

As of now, I'm walking to Noire's room to serve her a cup of tea. She's been working extremely hard to find out what had caused the monsters to appear at a public area like the subway. Maybe a little bit too hard until she slept on the desk often.

I knocked on the door before entering.

Noire: Come in.

I opened the door while bringing the tray which holds the tea pot and cups.

Y/N: Excuse me ma'am, but would you prefer sugar in your tea?

I said in a gentlemanly tone. She chuckled a bit before answering. I placed the tray on the desk and poured tea after it.

Noire: You don't have to do that you know. But please, do put the sugar.

Y/N: Haha... it's only once in a while. So, have you found the cause?

I put the sugar into the tea. I didn't put too much nor too little. Ever since I stayed here, I've pretty much remembered what Uni and Noire likings. I putted the same amount in mine too. We both took a sip before continuing our chat.

Noire: Nope. They mysteriously appeared with no trace of anything. Luckily, Grandvill was there to help exterminate them.

Y/N: Okay, but what about the offer?

Noire: The one from Neptune? I don't want to go until I find the cause of this phenomenon.

Y/N: <sigh> I know you're devoted to your work and all but 3 days without rest can be dangerous. If you were to get sick then both me and Uni would be troubled you know.

Noire: But the people of Lastation is more important. Don't worry, I'll take a day off once I found the cause.

Y/N: I guess that's fine.

The both of us finished drinking the cup of tea and placed it on the tray. I picked the tray and went to exit the room.

Y/N: Just to let you know Noire. I'm taking up the offer. It'll be a waste to just refuse it.

Noire: W-Wait you're going?

Noire gives out a shocked expression. Did I say anything weird?

Y/N: Y-Yeah. I mean, everyone's going...

Noire: M-Maybe I changed my mind about it. I-I'll tag along.

Y/N: But I thought you wanted to-

Noire: I know but, getting some rest is important too. <mumble> It's not like I wanted to follow you <mumble>.

Y/N: Uh... okay. Let me put this tray first before we go out.

I closed the door behind me. Noire can sometimes be a little bit weird. She was devoted seconds ago but she changed her mind that quickly? Weird...

Noire: <pout> (Baka...)

Timeskip
(Lastation Shopping Centre)
Noire's P.O.V

We reached the shopping center. Like always it's bustling. This is my first time shopping with a guy. It had always been with my fellow goddesses or Uni. I can also feel my heart racing but I could never figure it out.

Y/N: Noire, do you know any good place?

Noire: T-There's one on this floor. If we take a right from here we should see it.

Y/N: You feeling okay?

Noire: O-Obviously! We should hurry before it gets more crowded.

Y/N: Can it get more crowded than this?

Just when I took my first step, Y/N pulled me to his chest. I couldn't hide my now red face.

Noire: W-What was t-that for?!

Y/N: There was a person who was walking your way. If I hadn't done that you would probably be stepped on.

I turned my head to look at the tall man who was walking with headphones on while looking at his phone. I pushed myself away from Y/N.

Noire: T-Thank you...

Y/N: Don't sweat it. Now, let's go to that shop you were saying earlier.

I nodded and walked beside Y/N.

It didn't took long before we reached there. The shop was filled with swimsuits both for male and female. It had quite a few customers which made me a little bit glad. A female shopkeeper in her 20s greeted us.

Lisa: My name's Lisa. Do you need any help with...

She stopped her sentence and looked at the both of us.

Noire: Um...

Lisa: I see... Don't worry miss. I'll help you out. Now, if you you'll follow me.

The both of us followed her but we were confused.

Lisa: Oh, sorry mister but I was only calling your friend here.

Y/N: That's fine. If you need me I'll be at the male section.

With that, Y/N took off. I looked back at Lisa and she had quite the scary eyes.

Lisa: Don't worry. I know just the thing~

I gulped in fear. I never had once met a shopkeeper who was like this.

She took out a very revealing swimsuit out of the many swimsuits they had on the rack. My face blushed like mad. What is this girl thinking?

Noire: W-Why are you s-showing me that?

Lisa: Why? Because boys like girls who wear revealing clothes~ It makes their heart race and another thing... hehehe...

She's a complete sadist. She looks innocent at first. Just thinking about the words she said made my mind go in circles.

Noire: T-This is not the place to t-talk about this.

Lisa: Listen! If you want to captivate that boyfriend of yours, you need to act bold.

Noire: B-Boyfriend?! S-Since when did Y/N became my boyfriend?!

Lisa: Huh? You two aren't in a relationship?

Noire: Where did you get that idea?!

Lisa: I see. Then I might have a chance.

Noire: What are you talking about?! <sigh> I thought you were a normal shopkeeper but I guess I was wrong.

Lisa: Let me get this straight. You two are normal friends and that guy is single, right?

Noire: What's your point?

Lisa: Haven't you noticed? This Y/N guy is the main attraction for ladies. He has good looks. Most importantly he's kind isn't he? I can tell in one glance.

It's true. He does look cool and he's quite the fighter. But his kindness is probably his main trait. Y/N's willing to go through the pain if it means protecting his friends. But like Lisa had said, Y/N's has been getting popular among the girls especially.

Lisa: You like him don't you?

Noire: I-I don't really like him. He's just a friend of mine.

Lisa: Such an obvious lie. You may deny it but I believe your heart has different opinions.

She gave a smile. I don't know anymore. When thinking about it, everytime I'm with Y/N I feel at ease. He does make me nervous at times but it's not his fault. When I'm asleep with him, I get pleasant dreams too. I don't know much about love so I can't call it that.

Lisa: What about this? You tell me what's his preferences are and I'll help you with your dilemma.

Noire: I guess I can agree with that.

I told her all I know about Y/N's likes and dislikes. We've been together for a month and a half so it would be wrong for me not to know.

Lisa: If he's like that then I know the perfect thing you need.

Timeskip & Y/N's P.O.V

They sure are taking their time. I had already chose mine 30 minutes ago but they're still not done. Noire is a girl, so picking clothes would be an hour or more, though she's not the typical kind I met in my world. It was not long before Lisa had aproached me but Noire was not with her.

Y/N: Where's Noire?

Lisa: She needs your help before she decides. Please come with me.

I nodded and followed her to a fitting room. Lisa knocked on the door with the number 5 on it. I knew who it was and Noire opened the door.

Noire: What is it? Oh, its you Lisa and... Y/N?!!

Noire looked at me in the eyes. It was my first time seeing her in a swimsuit. It looked nice on her. Maybe too nice. I can feel my face heating up a bit.

Lisa: L/N-san, don't just stare at her, give her a compliment or something.

Lisa grabbed both of Noire's arms making her squeal a bit. Her face was noticeably red. I expected her to say something like "baka" or the sort but all she did was just fiddle with her fingers. I guess she was waiting for my reply.

Y/N: It looks... good on you.

Lisa: Louder L/N-san. Noire can't hear you.

Y/N: It looks very nice on you.

At that moment, I felt like time had stopped. I can definitely feel the embarrassment but Noire is probably feeling it more than me. Her face is beet red.

Noire: T-Then I choose this.

Lisa: Alright, just change back to your normal clothes and give your items to the cashier.

Y/N & Noire: Okay...

We said the same thing in sync. We looked at each other before chuckling a bit.

Lisa: (They look good together. Good luck Noire. I'll be rooting for you.)

Timeskip (Island)

Everyone was already there waiting for us. I guess we were a bit slow. When we reached there, the girls didn't waste anymore time and headed to the changing room. Of course I went to the male's changing room because of obvious reasons. When I was done, the girls weren't done changing. I decided to go check out the island before we head out in a group.

Y/N: (Might as well send a text before I go.)

I sent the text to Noire and exited the grand lobby. The breeze picked up as soon as I went out. It was currently in the afternoon and we have the whole day to relax around. The water was crystal clear and when I mean crystal I literally meant it. The water was shining as it reflects the sunlight.  The sand had no signs of rubbish or any kind of dangerous objects.

Y/N: Wow. I never expected a place like this to be so beautiful.

I walked a bit closer to the water as if I was drawn to it. But before I could touch the water I heard a certain voice calling to me.

Neptune: Y/N! What do you think you're doing?! Have you forgotten about your best friends?!

I turned around to see everyone had already been dressed for this occasion. Even the CPU Candidates was here. But I couldn't see Noire.

Y/N: You guys were taking your precious time so I decided to get a head start!

I smiled at them. Rom, Ram, Nepgear and Neptune began to run towards my direction. The rest casually walked while enjoying the breeze. As soon as Neptune approached me I asked her a question.

Y/N: Neptune, where's Noire?

Neptune: Oh, she's taking her time getting ready. Physically and mentally.

Y/N: Eh?

I was about to ask her what that meant but Neptune ran straight for the water to play with the girls.

Y/N: Oh well...

Vert and the rest was laying out the stuff we brought on a mat. There was a huge umbrella, food and drinks. Blanc sat down and began to read a book she brought. I guess Blanc really is a bookworm. Vert and Uni went to join in with Neptune as soon as they were done setting up the picnic spot.

Y/N: I guess I'll go take a walk or something.

I started my steps walking along the beachside.

Noire's P.O.V

I was a little bit nervous when I came here. I don't know how Neptune and the rest are able to act so normally around Y/N. But I can't stay in the changing room forever. I went outside and felt the nice breeze grazing my skin. I looked around to see where the group had go and luckily they weren't that far.

I stopped near Blanc who's still reading a book. But I didn't see Y/N amywhere. I didn't want to disturb Blanc as we all know what happens when we disturb her during her reads. I went to ask Neptune if she knew but I felt someone touching my shoulders. Out of reflex, I kicked whoever was behind me and saw Y/N groaning in pain.

Y/N: Ow! That's... a good... kick...

Noire: Wah! I'm sorry Y/N! I didn't know it was you.

Y/N: N-No, I'm fine really.

Y/N stood back up in one piece. He was able to recover from that blow quickly.

Noire: W-Who asked you to sneak up on me you baka?!

Y/N: I just needed to make sure it was you.

Noire: Didn't it look obvious?

Y/N: Let's not continue this shall we? I want to go for a swim. You coming Noire?

Noire: Swim?

I look at the vast ocean and I know very well I can't swim. I just don't want to say it in front of everyone.

Noire: I'll pass. I'll do it once I feel like it.

Y/N: How unfortunate. I wanted to be teached on how to swim because I'm not a very good swimmer. I guess I'll learn it by myself.

When he said that, it made my chest hurt a bit seeing he was very expecting for this. But I can't help it, I really can't swim. Y/N dived into the water when he reached a certain depth. I just sat down near the waves while watching Y/N practice determinedly.

After a few minutes, Y/N started to go slower and slower until he sank into the water. I think Y/N is drowning. I want to save him but I don't know how. I can't activate HDD since that won't change the fact I can't swim. I decided to save him despite the huge risk. I ran towards Y/N and dived into the water. I saw Y/N and when I did, I realised he was okay.

Noire: (Wait... he's okay?)

Y/N saw me and swam towards my direction. He wrapped his arms around my waist which made me blush and pulled us up. I'm so confused. When we reached the surface I breath in as much air as possible.

Noire: <pant> How, why, what?!

Y/N: <pant> That's my question. Why did you jump in like that?

Noire: You were drowning, right?! That's why I-

Y/N: Oh, that. I wasn't drowning, I was just diving underwater.

I couldn't stand it. I nearly risked my life just to see Y/N playing a fool.

Noire: You baka!

I slapped him as hard as I could. Y/N's grip was loosened and I just realised we were still on the ocean. I couldn't prepare myself so I sank into the ocean. I tried to swim up but I felt a leg cramp. I sank lower and I couldn't hold my breath any longer.

As my vision starts to fade, Y/N pulled me to his chest and he swam back up quickly. When we reached the surface I breathed for air again and so did he. He also pulled me in for a hug which made me blush.

Y/N: Noire... is it possible you don't know-

Noire: I-If you know about it, then keep it to yourself.

The cat's out of the bag. Y/N already figured it out. I can't stand the embarrassment but I can't do much when I'm in the water.

Noire: Y-Y/N you can let go of me now...

Y/N: Sorry, no can do. If I let you go now, I'll be a true idiot. Unless you agree with me teaching you on how to swim.

Noire: I appreciate the offer but I have a leg cramp.

Y/N: If that's the case then let's go back. The wave drifted us quite far. Get on my back and hold tight so the waves don't take you with it.

Noire: I-I know that.

Y/N letted go and I shifted my body to his back.

Noire: Are you sure about this? You did say you weren't a good swimmer.

Y/N: I lied about that.

Noire: ...You're seriously going to get it once we get on shore.

Y/N just weakly laughed as he swam back to shore. But when I'm this close to him my heart beats faster than usual. I leaned my head on Y/N's head.

Noire: We've done a lot together...

Y/N: Hmm? I guess so. Fighting baddies, finding treasure, doing quests. It is a lot.

We had a comfortable silence. The breeze blew gently. All I could hear was the ocean and wind.

Y/N: Hey, Noire?

Noire: Yeah?

Y/N: What if I were to say; "I am going to die one day"? What's your reaction going to be?

That's a rather odd question coming from a guy like Y/N. He wouldn't say negative things like this.

Y/N: Actually, forget about it. And before I forget to say it, thank you Noire.

Noire: For what?

Y/N: For being a great friend. You decided to save me when you thought I drowned despite your inability to swim. I'm grateful for that but don't do something reckless like that again.

Noire: Look who's talking. You nearly killed yourself just to save us.

Y/N: I guess we're even.

We laughed for a bit. We had already reached land before we even noticed. I got down from Y/N and stepped on something.

Y/N: You okay, Noire?

Noire: Yeah, just stepped on something.

I bent down to see what had I stepped on. When I picked it up, it was a pretty looking sapphire.

Y/N: What's a sapphire doing here?

Noire: Maybe someone dropped it.

I was about to put it back on the ground but Y/N stopped me from doing so. He said he wanted to keep it but he didn't clarify his reasons. I didn't care about the gem so I just gave it to him.

Neptune and the rest were having lunch. Y/N and I joined in a little bit later because of his idiotic actions. He can sometimes be a baka but that's one of his traits.

Timeskip & Y/N's P.O.V

After lunch we had continue playing or rested a bit. I was resting on a rock a little bit faraway from the picnic spot. It was close to sunset and the view was just... mesmerising. I took a look at the sapphire and thought of a wonderful idea. I kept it inside my pockets and got up. I'm pretty sure it was time to go home. When I mean home, I mean Lastation.

I walked on the cold sand while the waves just touched my feet. I saw everyone packing up while Noire looked beautiful when bathed under the sunset's light. She was wearing a robe covering most of her skin except the front. Noire noticed me and ran up to me.

Noire: Where were you? We were close to leaving you here.

She said in a slight angry tone but she was blushing too.

Y/N: Sorry. I had to grab something before I left.

Noire: What is it?

Y/N: Close your eyes and then I would tell you. It's a surprise.

Noire: F-Fine... but if you do anything weird. I-I will stab you with a million needles.

Y/N: Where can you get that many needles?

She obeyed and closed her eyes. Her eyes were slightly twitching but I trust her she would not open them. I took out the sapphire which was made into a necklace and fitted it on Noire's neck. She moved a bit when she felt the necklace but kept her eyes closed. When I was done tieing it I moved back a bit and her eyes opened.

Noire: W-What did you do to me? I felt something on my...

She looked down to see the sapphire hanging on her neck. Her eyes was sparkling. I could tell she was a little shock. I smiled at her.

Noire: Why would you give it to me? Shouldn't you use it to get Credits?

Y/N: I don't need them. I gave it to you as a way of saying thanks for looking out for me. From day 1 until now you were the closest friend I have in this world. And I promise to protect everything that I hold dear to me. Which includes you.

Noire: Y/N...

We had a comfortable silence. As I begin to walk back, Noire called me.

Noire: Wait!

I turned back to see a blushing Noire.

Noire: I-I got something for you too.

Y/N: Really?

Noire: C-Come closer if you want to know.

I walked a bit closer.

Noire: That's not close enough.

I took a few short steps closer to her. My body was just inches away from her.

Noire: H-Here's you present.

She closed her eyes and just stood there facing my face. I was confused for a moment. But when looking at the situation and using my otaku brain I thought this is one of the scenes where the girl awaits the boy's kiss. My face turned red before I decided.

Y/N: (I can't keep her waiting...)

I closed my eyes and attempted to kiss Noire. I could feel her breathing and her nice smell was making my head go blank and I haven't even started yet. When were just 1 millimetre away, we heard a voice that ruined everything.

Neptune: Ooooiiiiii! What's taking the two of you so long?!

As soon we heard Neptune's voice, we pulled back as fast as we could. Our face was now red. Redder than our usual blush. The embarrassment was too much.

Noire: A-Alright! W-We're c-coming!

Noire ran straight for Neptune without looking at me. She's embarrassed beyond her level.

Y/N: <sigh> I doubt I'd have a chance like that again...

The End: Chapter 9: Bonds

Woah, what a chapter. Sorry if this was rushed. I wanted to publish this as soon as I can as France internet can be a bit of a pain in the a**.

It was also harder than I thought to make Noire's personality just right. Sorry for that. But I do hope you enjoyed it.

Bye!