Disclaimer: I do not own Dissidia12 FF it is the rightful property of square enix as well as character designer Tetsuya Nomura and I do not own Naruto it is the rightful property of Kishimoto-san.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
Bold letters narration
The Twelve cycle: Treachery of the gods
Chapter 1 The path to Sanctuary
The divine conflict between harmony and discord rages on, the fate of the world its promised prize. Fighting to secure it are brave souls summoned for that solitary purpose. Champions, cut from a cloth different from those which from the fabric of our world. These warriors from afar are helpless but to do as bid, waging battle after endless battle for the gods who called them here, granted neither respite nor reprieve. Relying on what fragments of their shattered memories remain, they fight to end the conflict, and for a chance to return home, to the worlds they each once knew. What they cannot know is that they fight is in vain. This war is one without end, and it is their fate to serve forever, until, at last, their ebbing strength gives way.
(Location: Elven fields Land of Harmony)
Among the grassy fields of the peaceful land it was another day in the eternal struggle of the gods. A group of warrior of the Goddess Cosmos we're currently on their way to her domain in the tower of light known as Cosmos Sanctuary. The group has traveled quite far taking many routes with little rest since it was important to reach their destination due that the Goddess of harmony has called upon them, and it was obvious that the matter was urgent so they couldn't arrive late for the meeting. However they were aware that they were already late and mostly everyone else has arrived and they were currently waiting for their arrival, including Cosmos. Neither of them had no idea if they were far nor close to Sanctuary maybe because their guide wasn't so good as they thought, which explained it why they weren't there yet.
The reason they were probably lost is because a certain soldier chose to take the lead in finding the path to Sanctuary. Everyone else traveling had regretted to put him in charge although they have survived so far since they haven't met any hostiles yet. They were quite lucky that Laguna took charge to be the leading man and it was a surprise that Lightning didn't argue of him taking the lead. The pink haired soldier just remained quiet like they expected he was going to do an even better job than her, so far there were no complaints from her yet. The others didn't say a word either so they remained traveling on the fields hoping that the rest of the journey goes smoothly without any interference from unwanted company.
They haven't encountered a warrior of Chaos in a while after several of conflicts with them. They've been many battles and so far the odds were even, like both forces were equal in strength. One battle after another it seemed like there was no victor in them, both sides didn't seem to have any disadvantage at all. For now they could enjoy any absence from the enemy as they focused in their journey to Sanctuary, but even they will a little uneasy that they haven't seen one of the warriors of discord yet. But it didn't meant they were going to let their guard down and wait to get ambush, they were already prepare to fight anything that comes their way. After a while of traveling they have finally decided to take a small break because they had no idea where they were going, all thanks to Laguna.
The warriors took their small break Yuna the summoner stood talking to Laguna probably about his sense of direction, Tifa the fighter stood not too far from the gazing at the view, Kain Highwind the dragon warrior was a little further away looking in thought. Vaan the young warrior with a dream to become a sky pirate was near Tifa we're while the pink haired soldier Lightning was away from the group looking in thought. Probably she wasn't happy with the results of leaving Laguna do the leading, maybe if she took charge then they would have reached Cosmos's Sanctuary by now. No need to feel sorry now what is done that's what she thought but the one thing that had her bothered is about the Goddess calling them, obviously it had to do with the long war they have been fighting against the God of discord and his warriors.
Vaan went to the fighter" hey, uh, Tifa…You figure they all made it to Cosmos by now?"
"Hmm, I guess they could have. You must be tired, huh?"
"Of course I am. Laguna lead us to the scenic road I don't know what you were thinking."
"Yeah, I, uh, could've sworn this was the quick route. Guess not" said Laguna as he walked to the two.
"Guess not" replied the young warrior.
"Well, it can't really be that much farther from here, can it?" said Yuna walking to the group.
"I think I've seen this place before."
"Right see there Yuna knows what's up. We went a little out of our way but we're still on track, no need to complain" said the long haired soldier.
"Yuna you oughta let him know what you really think. It's for his own good" said Vaan.
Far from the group stood Lightning listening to their conversation and without replying she had to agree with the young warrior. Laguna was doing a bit of a sloppy job leading them, at this rate they might not make it to Cosmos on time. Instead of worrying of the quickest route to get to the Sanctuary she was still in deep thought about the Goddess of harmony calling them, another battle to fight in this war. Honestly she could care less about the conflict all she ever wants is to get her memory back and return to her home world, it was the only thing that matters to her. What happens between Chaos and Cosmos was their own business and she had no interest in butting in. But she was already involved in this battle even if she never asked to be brought to this world to fight for the Goddess of harmony, she realized there was someone next to her and she was aware of it breaking her from her thoughts.
"Lightning, time to stop sulking" Kain was on a corner next to her.
"Who's sulking?" replied the pink haired soldier in a rude matter.
"Had Laguna not taken charge, we might well never made it this far. Perhaps his words were mostly false. But even so, they moved us and that's why we're here."
"I know that. Thanks for the refresher" she stood in thought again.
"Kain…Cosmos called us again. Why do you suppose that is?"
"Who knows?" replied the dragon warrior.
"I want…I intend to win this fight. I win and I get my memory back. I get to go back home. I keep telling myself that, just like everyone else. But you know…now that I've been here a while. Sometimes I have to wonder if winning really means we'll get to go back home at all. If it might be that winning…won't change a thing I just, I can't help but wonder…."
"What's this is it really possible Lightning's as human as the rest of us?" Laguna went to the two with rest of the warriors of harmony.
"Wha-?"
"Look, we've all got our worries, but we're trying to do what we can. You gonna lead us now or you leavin' that up to me?"
"Anything but that" she made up her mind not to let him take the lead, this time she will take the lead.
"Don't sweat it, we'll figure something out. Long as we stay alive things are bound to work out, right?"
"That is merely an assumption from your part."
"What?" asked the soldier while the group was looking around the area?
The warriors of Cosmos we're surprised of the voice until they realized there was nothing to worry about. Aware that the owner of the voice wasn't a hostile enemy but on the contrary, they would never forget about their seventh companion traveling with them. The man appeared next to them wearing the attire that is meant to be wear by the ANBU shinobi from the hidden leaf village of Konoha. He was always quiet and he will watch over the group from the shadows, only appearing when it was a fight. Strange that he chose to showed up when there wasn't a battle to be fought so far. The others didn't saw a problem with having him here, it was no coincidence that all of them could get along and work well together.
Vaan smiled at the presence of their quiet companion although he did behaved the same way as Kain. Tifa and Yuna followed with the gesture, Kain it was hard to tell because of his dragon helmet as for Lightning, she stood in thought staring at the young ANBU shinobi. Everyone has seen him in battle and he was quite formidable, more like a force to be reckoned with. She has come to trust her traveling comrades fighting under the Goddess of harmony and gain some respect for their fighting abilities. But Itachi was the one person she had the most respect for she was proud so she obviously didn't showed it much. She had every reason to gain such trust for him she was there first hand, seeing him fighting.
During the times they have fought the ANBU shinobi was always there to back them up whenever they were in a tight pinch. He will watch over them from the shadows and interfered whenever it was necessary. But Lightning wasn't that stubborn although she was proud she admitted that she couldn't have gotten so far in the war if it weren't for her companions. And certainly not without Itachi that was the important lesson she learned to survive with the help of everyone, because of them she will get stronger than she already is. For a moment their gazes met and she could see there was some calm and warmth in his onyx eyes, but that was all she could see in them. Aside from the shell that he was hiding a lot of pain and sorrow.
"There you are Itachi finally decided to leave your dark corner eh?" Laguna friendly jabbed him on the side.
The older Uchiha ignored his comment gazing at him" things aren't always tend to work out well. Mostly they are tending to get worst, much worst."
"Right I forgot you're always the light to see things in a negative way" replied the long haired soldier in a joking tone.
"It is not being negative but by logic things aren't always happen in a good matter but unfortunate as well. You can possibly believe your way thinking will help us survive this battle?"
"I'm being positive because I ain't giving up that we'll make it through this alive, I like to keep my possibilities in our favor."
"There is also the possibility that we'll die in this war."
"There you go again with the negative attitude."
"He has a point you know" replied the pink haired soldier.
"I have to agree with Lightning. Laguna although there is no harm to be positive but you have to understand that simply saying 'everything will work out' it doesn't make it absolute. We also have to think that things might not turn well or how you foresee it" said Kain.
"Now everyone is against me" he threw his hands into the air.
"Nevertheless I'd trust our once wayward guide. He speaks from experience" replied Kain.
"Thanks" Laguna obviously took it as a compliment.
"Shall we then?"
"Relax. Our battle will not be ended so easily" the dragon warrior started walking off.
"Precisely that is why we must always stay on guard. I highly doubt Chaos's warriors are resting the same way we are right now" said Itachi.
"No, that it won't" she replied.
Lightning nodded turning to Laguna" I'll take the lead."
"That's what I was expecting. Taking the lead is not my thing."
"No kidding" replied the sarcastic Farron.
"Hey guys are we leaving or what? We don't want to keep the others waiting any longer as it is" said Vaan in the distance with Tifa and Yuna next to him.
Itachi remained quiet but he went on following the warriors. Kain followed him shortly deciding to watch the rear thought it wasn't necessary with the older Uchiha present. Usually he will be the one watching over everyone and the first to react to any kind of attacks. Needless to say he was a powerful addition to the group the dragon knight stood in thought. Perhaps that was the reason why any warriors from Chaos haven't made an attempt to ambush, because of Itachi. Even if he was only one man he was a powerful man, then again it could be their luck of not to encountering any trouble. It was better a safe trip without any fighting. Soon the Uchiha has gotten ahead of the others and he was now right behind Lightning who was in the front, his expression was his usual calm one. But he will always have his guard up they can get attack so suddenly without a single warning.
The Path to Sanctuary became a quiet one the warriors didn't felt like talking or they just didn't know what to say. Most of them were only focusing in getting to Cosmos and the others and those were obviously Lightning, Itachi, Kain and surprisingly Vaan. The young sky pirate wanted to return to Sanctuary worried that everyone else we're already there and currently waiting for their arrival. Tifa turned her gaze to the pink haired soldier taking the lead and the armored shinobi behind her, a playful smiled spread her lips. Taking a closer glance at the two warriors there was something about them, maybe both had the same aura of not getting close to them or you might not live to see another day. Though Itachi wasn't like that, at least with his allies but to his enemies he showed no mercy just like the pink haired woman taking the lead. The young fighter gave a small chuckle getting the attention of the summoner next to her.
"What is it?"
"Don't you think they're the same?" Tifa pointed to the two in front of them with her gaze.
"Lightning and Itachi….? I really can't say they do share some similarities. But not enough for them to be equals."
"I think they're alike in many ways."
"I definitely agreed" Laguna joined the conversation.
"You think so too huh?" the fighter gave a smile.
"Look at them. They don't smile, they don't laugh, and they both have cold glares enough to send shivers to the warriors of Chaos. That's enough to make them equals."
"That's the way they are, what about Kain? Doesn't he act the same too?" said the summoner.
"He's serious but even he can be funny. You remember that dragon joke he made?"
"I don't think that was a joke Laguna it was more like a comment" Tifa raised an eyebrow.
"I did found it funny though."
"I suggest if you're going to be talking behind someone's back, then make sure you're not loud enough to be heard" Itachi has turned to them with a serious expression.
"Uh oh…." The soldier felt like he's been caught in the act.
"It's not what it looks like" Tifa gave an innocent smile.
"We weren't really saying anything to offend you" followed Yuna.
"Comparing me to Lightning isn't, but saying things behind someone's back is rather rude. This isn't the proper behavior for comrades to show."
"He's right" Kain walked to the group.
"Yeah I can't believe you guys would act this way" Vaan walked with his arms behind his head.
"We we're only making comparisons people that's all" Laguna tried to be the voice of reason which he failed.
"What's the hold up?" Lightning's voice came from the distance she sounded a bit annoyed that they weren't following her.
"Apologies Lightning we'll be on our way" Itachi has resumed his walking.
"She sounded angry" Yuna said worried.
"Can't blame her if we chose to stay and talk without saying a word to her" said the young sky pirate.
"Enough dawdling, let's resume our journey" said the dragon knight.
The group resumed their walking, enough time to catch up to the pink haired soldier. Lightning gazed behind them from the corner of her eye and felt relief, still her anger was there. Not happy that she was taking the lead while the rest stopped to take a chatting break. They were supposed to be in a hurry to return to Cosmos and here they were wasting time with petty talk. Personally her thoughts on the members she was traveling with weren't that much, but effective. Vaan was young but he has proven himself to be a good fighter, Laguna was cheery and optimistic though his jokes were terrible, yet he proved to be reliable in battle. Kain was also a reliable fighter with quick thinking, Yuna has proven that her summoning abilities were needed in battle her Aeons were indeed powerful. Tifa was a recommended fighter for close range combat, and then there was Itachi.
Her aqua eyes were on the man behind her what can she say about him? The older Uchiha was an enigma to her such a mystery that she admitted it intrigues her. He didn't talk much, he was a quick thinker and quite strong. Too many thoughts we're on him for her to understand him clearly. He was quite reserved but at the same time it feels like he opens up to them, how can you be so reserved when you opened up to people? She still didn't know the answer. The older Uchiha was probably stronger than the whole group put together and she likes that, she respects and acknowledges someone's strength. Without admitting it she respects him and probably admires him, her stubbornness and pride will prevent her from speaking truthfully about the raven haired man. Her thoughts regarding the older Uchiha were put on hold when she sensed someone heading their way, she signaled to the group to stop.
"What's wrong?" asked Vaan.
"We got company" she unsheathed her gun blade Blaze Fire saber.
"A warrior of Chaos?" asked Kain.
"Maybe…."
"Oh well so much for heading to Cosmos early" Laguna gave a sigh.
"Let's be careful everyone" replied Yuna.
"We'll ambush them if there's more than one. I'll go first and then you will all follow going to the offensive" she tightened her gun blade waiting for the person to get closer to them.
"Now!" she charged at the incoming enemy.
"Wait Lightning!" shouted Itachi.
It was too late to stop the pink haired soldier she fired the aero spell at whoever was heading their way. The others managed to see the person once he was in their view, they all recognized him. With blond spiky hair, cerulean eyes, whisker marks on his cheeks and wearing a black and orange jumpsuit with a red cloak with black flames on the bottom. Finally a black headband with a silver plate with the leaf symbol engraved in it. They felt relief he wasn't an enemy just another member of their group, fighting on behalf of Cosmos. Then they realized their leader has unleashed an attack on him and it was too late to do a thing about it.
"Hey guys-"
The whiskered blond didn't finish his sentence as he got hit by the wind spell. Everyone felt sorry for the poor Uzumaki he hit the ground hard with his clothes all messy and half thorn. He was seeing stars while everyone walked over to Lightning, the pink haired soldier was unfazed with the fact that she attacked a comrade. Her expression clearly she could care less if she attacked a friend or foe she saw the blond wasn't alone. They saw another person walking to them, another member of their group. His hair style the form of a pineapple, dark hair and dark eyes wearing the metal plate leaf symbol attached to his shirt. His attire was that of a rank jounin from Konoha and his facial expression has the clear meaning that he has zero motivation whatsoever. He sighed seeing the downed blond though he was relief that the people they have encountered were warriors of Cosmos.
"Perhaps I should have warned Lightning earlier" Itachi shook his head.
"False alarm it seems" Kain was staring at the downed Uzumaki.
"Pretty much" followed Lightning.
Tifa and Yuna were the ones who offered to check on the blond as they help him on his feet. Both girls looked very concern for their blond comrade.
"Naruto are you okay?" asked the worried summoner.
"Yeah I'm okay…."
"You should have been more careful" the fighter was dusting him off.
He suddenly got upset at the person who released the magic attack his cerulean eyes were on the Farron.
"What gives?!" he glared at the pink haired soldier for attacking him.
"You know we're not supposed to fight each other, Cosmos's law and all" said Laguna.
"I attacked him by mistake not that I want to fight him or anything."
"Don't you feel sorry at all?" he was still glaring at her.
"I should have used a stronger spell" her expression was unfazed.
"Why you-"
"You were careless Naruto. You should have been aware to be on your guard. Remember we're in a war, all of us we're expecting a warrior of Chaos" said the dragon knight.
"I knew it was you guys, I saw all of you from the distance. That's why I didn't charge in attacking so blindly."
"….." the pink haired soldier was unfazed by his comment.
"Next time be a little more careful" said Vaan.
"I apologize Naruto. I was aware it was you however I wasn't expecting Lightning moving in to attack. My late warning is the cause of your demise" said the older Uchiha.
"Hmph…." the Farron crossed her arms.
"I'm fine anyway, it's not like I'm going to expect Mrs. Grouch to apologize" replied the Uzumaki coolly.
"What?" Lightning glared at him.
"That Naruto always cracks me up" Laguna hold the thought of chuckling.
"Lightning can be quite a grouch sometimes" the sky pirate also holds his thought to laugh a little.
"Watch your mouth blondie" she was still holding her gun blade and she was planning in using it on someone.
"You're the one that started this."
"Enough with the argument, we're on the same side" said Itachi.
"Agreed, showing you two engaging in such squabble only shows a low level of maturity."
Naruto and Lightning we're now glaring at Kain for his comment that they were acting immature while the dragon knight wasn't fazed by their looks.
"He's really asking for it" thought the Uzumaki.
"Man, Naruto why do you have to be so troublesome? I told you to wait for them to arrive to our position but you didn't listen. We're not supposed to be bringing too much attention to ourselves. First you took the lead and now this" Shikamaru gave a sigh.
"Hey my senses of directions are good."
"Yeah right, we've been walking in circles for over an hour. We kept on walking the same area over and over again. I don't know what was more troublesome your sense of directions or the fact that you tripped on the same rock three times in a row."
The whiskered blond sweat dropped while the group didn't know what to say while Lightning scoffed at him not surprise he was such a sloppy traveler.
"You don't have to give them all the details!" he gave the Nara a comical expression.
"What to expect from the incompetent brat of the group?" thought the Farron.
"Whatever you guys aren't with Chaos so it's fine by me that we don't have to fight. I hate fighting."
"And then there's Mr. Lazy" added Lightning with a frown not approving of his attitude.
"Sometimes I wonder what Cosmos thinking was by sending him here?" Kain thought gazing at the Nara.
"We're not too far from reaching Sanctuary" Itachi was gazing at Cosmos tower in far in the distance.
"It's going to get dark. It will be wise to stop our journey for now and prepare to spend the night" said the dragon knight.
"Agreed don't you think so Lightning?" asked the Uchiha.
"We'll rest for the night."
"All right time to search for some firewood" said Vaan.
I'll go" offered the Uzumaki.
"We'll go too" Tifa said and Yuna gave a nod.
"Hey I was the one that suggested to get firewood don't leave me behind" the young sky pirate follow them.
"We'll set camp here" the pink haired soldier turned to the rest of the group.
(Scene change)
The four warriors of harmony didn't go too far from the position of the camp. They took a path that lead to a small forest the perfect spot to search for firewood. With four of them on the search they'll be able to gather enough for the camp fire. Vaan left the group to find a couple of branches not too thin they were exactly the perfect size to be used for the firewood. The sky pirate smiled already found some he might finish before the others, not that this has become into a competition who gathers enough for the fire. Naruto jumped getting on the branches of the trees to get a better view of the forest he jumped to another branch before setting his feet on the ground again. The whiskered blond gave a grin he found branches for the fire wood and got a little determined to beat his competition. Pretty soon he will return to camp with the necessary wood.
Unfortunately for the two males they haven't realized the ladies accompanying them have already gathered enough to last the evening. Yuna and Tifa unlike the boys have chosen to stick together and use teamwork for the wood gathering, they have obviously succeeded. Both were carrying the stack the fighter beauty had no problem carrying them due she was stronger than she looks. However it was a different story for the young summoner who was having some trouble carrying her share, she was trying so hard not to trip that she might end up throwing all the firewood on the ground. She carefully watched her step where she was walking, eventually she stripped but Tifa helped her from having a nasty fall. She also managed to save her from letting any of the wood to fall clearly she couldn't carry it all on her own.
"You're really having trouble."
"Don't worry about me I'll manage."
"No you can't, you need help but I don't think I'll be able to carry your entire share."
"I said it's all right Tifa…."
"Hey Naruto!" the brawler saw the Uzumaki not too far and he was only holding three pieces of wood.
"What is it?" he went to the two girls only to have his mouth wide open seeing the large amount of firewood they were carrying.
"No way-how did you guys….?"
"While you boys we're on your own, we chose to gathered the wood together. I was wondering if you'll be kind enough to carry Yuna's share."
"Huh…oh-okay!"
"It's okay Naruto you don't have to do-"
"Nah it's okay I don't mind at all" he grabbed the every piece of wood from the summoner.
"Are you sure?"
"Sure I'm sure I can carry a lot of firewood at once."
A shadow clone that he has summoned after they left the others jumped from a tree getting next to the original. They have actually forgotten that it was one of his abilities that he could create so many duplicates of himself, making him a very important asset to the group. They didn't care what the others thought about him, they already saw him as an important comrade and friend. Yuna felt herself blush a little at the way the Uzumaki has offered to carry all the firewood she has gathered, she really does like his kind gesture. While Tifa noticed the summoner's blush she prevented herself from teasing her, though she wouldn't mind if the whiskered does ends up carrying her firewood too. She also likes a kind gentleman who would do such way, even if she didn't need the help. Vaan shortly arrived carrying his firewood which it was more than what originally Naruto started gathering.
"Good thing you have your clones, or you wouldn't be able to carry so much firewood" said the young sky pirate.
"Lucky me" grinned the whiskered blond.
"He was kind enough to carry Yuna's" said Tifa.
"Really….?"
"We have enough firewood, let's get back to the others" the Uzumaki started walking off.
"Why does it feel like you're taking advantage of him Yuna."
"That's not true I would never do that to him" the summoner felt offended by Vaan's comment.
"Naruto are you bothered with carrying Yuna's firewood?" the brawler shouted to the blond.
"Nope, I'm always happy to help my friends!" shouted back the whiskered shinobi.
"There's your answer" she smirked at the sky pirate.
"He's strange" he started walking off joining the Uzumaki and his shadow clone.
"He's not strange" said Yuna with a smiile her eyes we're on him.
"He's more like too good to be true" Tifa also kept her smile watching the blond.
"Maybe that's what makes him so adorable."
"Yuna" the fighter was amazed at her bold comment.
"Well…I-don't you feel the same way too?" she had no idea why she felt her cheeks heating up.
The brawler beauty gave a small smile before walking off and the summoner was following her looking highly embarrassed. It's true that both thought Naruto was adorable and even cute he was probably the most kind hearted person from all the warriors of Cosmos. It didn't took that long for the two ladies to grown fond of him, however neither of them hasn't check what they were feeling towards him. Both just like everyone fighting for the Goddess of Harmony didn't remember a thing from their lives or their home world. They catch up to the two males, but they were staring at Naruto happy to have someone like him as their ally and friend and maybe something else. Hopefully this will do for the fire to camp not forgetting they needed to get to Sanctuary as soon as possible. But then again the rest of the harmony warriors weren't going to head to Cosmos as it was getting dark.
(Time skip)
The warriors of Cosmos stood seated on the ground in front of the fire made from using the firewood gathered. It's been quiet since it got dark and the fire was made thanks to Lightning casting the fire spell. So far no one has said a word and it looked like they weren't tired yet. Lightning stood on the middle her eyes on nowhere in particular, Kain stood on a corner probably keeping a close watch on things, Shikamaru was gazing at the sky trying to see if there were any clouds, Laguna on a far corner looking a bit bored, Vaan was in the same boat along with Yuna and Tifa and the only thing they thought to kill the boredom is to steal glances at Naruto. The Uzumaki was the one who looks the most bored of the bunch he really didn't like when there was a big silence between large groups as for Itachi the Uchiha was keeping a close watch for any enemies. The whiskered blond finally had it he didn't like to stay quiet for too long.
"So any of you remembers something from your home?"
"You mean from our world?" said Laguna.
"Yeah I thought maybe we might remember something right? Even a small hint…."
"Tch" Lightning wanted to ignore the Uzumaki for his comment.
"You don't have to answer Lightning if you don't want to" the whiskered blond sweat dropped.
"I don't remember a squat about my world" said Laguna.
"I only remember a couple of faces, but the rest is all a blur" replied Kain.
"The only thing I can remember is my dream" said Vaan.
"You remember….?"
"I want to be a sky pirate."
"You mean you want to steal money capture people and have them executed?" said the Uzumaki.
"What….? No not that kind of pirate. I want to fly the skies and visits new places and fight evil monsters."
"Oh that kind of pirate you should have said so" the blond shinobi felt silly while Yuna and Tifa gave a laugh at his previous comment.
"But that's all there is I can think off, nothing about my world."
"I know I have a dream, but I can't seem to remember it and neither my home. I remember Shikamaru being from the same world as me that's all."
"I only remember I and Naruto are from the same village, and every time it reminds me I don't remember it's troublesome to think about it" said the Nara.
"My mind is completely blank from my world, at least you guys can remember something" replied Tifa.
"I don't remember much just…." Yuna paused having a certain blond blitzer in her head.
"Just what….?" pressed Naruto.
"It's nothing…." her blue and green eyes softened.
"Hm…I guess the only ones left are Lightning and Itachi" said Laguna looking at the two warriors.
"I'll pass" replied the pink haired soldier.
"No kidding" muttered the Uzumaki but the Farron heard him and gave him a glare.
"You're the only one left Itachi come on buddy don't go Lightning on us and pass."
"What's with you all of the sudden Laguna….?" Vaan smiled at his attitude.
"I can't help it if Naruto has influenced me to ask all the questions about our memories" he chuckle while the whiskered blond gave a laugh.
"…" the Uchiha stood quiet looking in thought.
"Hello Cosmos to Itachi…."
"Honestly I don't want to remember anything."
"What?" everyone was surprised at his answer even Lightning.
"I'm better off not remembering anything…."
"Okaaay" said Laguna.
"Why is that?"
Everyone turned to the pink haired soldier her eyes we're on the raven haired shinobi.
"Why you don't want to remember? Doesn't it matter to you not to remember about your home or any friends and family you might have left behind and are probably searching for you or waiting for you?"
"What's with Lightning all of the sudden?" Vaan has noticed the sudden change in her tone it was filled with some caring.
"Well what you know I guess Lightning cares after all" Laguna chuckled mentally.
"She sounds so different from her usual self, so caring" smiled Yuna.
"….." the Uchiha remained quiet not meeting the eyes of the person asking him the questions.
"Answer me Itachi…."
"I just don't want to remember…I'm afraid of what I might remember."
"Afraid….?" Tifa got a little worried.
"Your life must not be fair if you're feeling fear to remember, the stronger the fear the harder one's life might be" said Kain.
"I only know you're a shinobi from the same village as me and Naruto, but that's all I know, I don't remember much about you" said Shikamaru.
"I don't think you're evil Itachi if that's what you're scare to remember" Naruto replied while everyone turned to him.
"I have a feeling you're not…."
"Naruto is right. Itachi you're one of us, Cosmos would have never summoned you to fight on her behalf if you really have darkness in your heart. If that was the case then it would have been Chaos that would have summoned you instead" said the dragon knight.
"No, it's not that…."
"Then what is?" Lightning pressed on getting up from her spot.
"Sometimes it's best not to remember anything. Because when you do remember you will only feel nothing but pain and regret for the sacrifices you have done. It scares me that my life might have been a path filled by darkness enough to crush my being…."
"…" none of them said a word it felt like his words have really got them thinking.
The Uchiha got up from his spot he was ready to leave.
"I will take the first watch…." he walked off.
"That went well not exactly as I expected it will go" said Laguna.
"Our friend seems to have a lot in his mind" followed Kain.
"I never thought we'll meet someone who doesn't want to have to his memories back" said Vaan.
"He just needs time for himself, maybe he will feel better tomorrow" said Yuna.
"…" Lightning kept staring at the direction he took off.
"Or maybe he needs friends" added Naruto looking worried.
"This is terrible I can't see a single cloud. What would I expect from a dark sky? I like it better when it's sunny" mumble Shikamaru.
"Tough luck for you, clouds are rarely visible when it's dark" said the sky pirate.
"How troublesome…."
Tifa giggled silently as she got closer to the summoner.
"Yuna I'm going to do it."
"Don't, that will be over doing it."
"It's only going to be for fun…."
Yuna gave a sigh watching the brawler walking over to the whiskered blond. It looks like she already knew what she has in mind. Yet she felt a bit jealous that her friend will have the guts to do something like that, or maybe there was something else than just jealousy.
"Hey Naruto…."
"Hey Tifa" smiled the Uzumaki.
"Mind if I sit next to you?"
"No, not all go ahead" he suddenly felt nervous but gave a big smile.
The beauty happily seated next to him and just for the proximity the whiskered blond was getting nervous. At least since he's been summoned him to this world he has never had such a beautiful woman so close to him. Truly Tifa was gorgeous and Yuna was in the same category too, he scratched Lightning off because although she was attractive she was too much of a grouch and a bit too cold for his taste. If he has to place them both for first and second place both will take first place spot in a heartbeat. He truly admitted they were both beautiful and his thinking was put to a halt when he felt an arm around his shoulder. The blond turned and blushed realizing that the fighter is the one to boldly put her arm around him, and she gave him a sweet smile in return. She has pulled him closer and that made it worse, his face was quite close giving him a perfect view of her chest.
"What's this Tifa?" Laguna sounded amused at the sight.
"What? I can't do this to a friend?"
"Oh dear…." Yuna hold the thought to giggle at the way she was teasing the Uzumaki.
"I can't believe she's holding me like this…I can't believe I'm so close to her…I can't believe I'm so close to her boobies. They look bigger from up close" His biggest challenge yet will be not to get a nosebleed.
"Um…Tifa I think you're killing Naruto" said Vaan with a sweat dropped.
"Huh….?"
When she saw the blond she gasped the poor Uzumaki's face was the color of a cherry. He has collapsed with a comical expression looking like he no longer had any oxygen through his body. At least if he dies he will go to heaven with the biggest smile ever because he died from being touched by Tifa. The rest of the group just sighed at the whole scene aware that the brawler was to blame for her teasing act. Though it wasn't normal for her to be teasing like that since it wasn't like her at all, she has never done it before with the other males of the group except for the whiskered shinobi. There was a first time for everything but it was a still mystery why she will do such thing, looks like Yuna was the only one who will reserve enough to do something as to tease someone. Yet in the back of the summoner's mind she wouldn't be bother to give it a try.
"Naruto are you okay?" she got worried.
"I'm not home right now just leave a message after the beep…Beep."
"He's okay" Laguna gave a chuckle.
"He'll probably be out for a while" Vaan said.
"Tch women are so troublesome" Shikamaru gave a sigh.
Lightning has had about enough of all the silliness as she was ready to get some rest. She left the camp site and got further from the others looking for a nice spot to be able to get a goodnight rest. As she got near a rock to be able to use for a pillow at least her mind went to Itachi's words, her aqua eyes searching for the Uchiha his position where he was taking watch. She was thinking about him, he was still a mystery of course everyone wanted to get their memories back from their home world so why he was the only one who wasn't interest in the least to remember? Of course she wanted to remember about her world, her family and her friends. Then again she will ask herself if she has any friend at all back at her world with her attitude and behavior. These people she was traveling with weren't her friends just her allies because they're on the same side of the Goddess of harmony. But just from a glimpse of her memories that will be enough for her.
"Sometimes it's best not to remember anything. Because when you do remember you will only feel nothing but pain and regret for the sacrifices you have done. It scares me that my life might have been a path filled by darkness enough to crush my being…."
"Itachi…Was the life from your world that bad?"
She soon fell asleep and still not knowing why she was feeling concerned for the Uchiha. Why did it matter to her to know about his world and his life? A question she couldn't find an answer, but maybe she will someday and she really hopes she does.
(Time skip)
Itachi stood in his spot watching over the group resting, his duty for any sightings of enemies namely any warrior of Chaos. He hasn't been able to be at ease since the conversation at the camp fire, his words and the fact he has opened up to the group has scared him a bit. It would have been better to keep quiet and not give them answer, yet he understood about the power of comrades and friendship since he feels like he had a close friendship with someone he couldn't remember. The raven haired shinobi stood in deep thought and before he knew it, images were running in his head. So many images that were starting to hurt his head, he reached touching his forehead eventually he believed all these images were part of his memories from his world. He still didn't know them but what else could it be for him to have so many images? He groaned as he felt they were coming back to life, or more to haunt him.
"Big brother can you help me in my shuriken training?"
"I'm sorry maybe next time."
"Kill them all, that's your mission or the rebellion will occur and the village will fall."
"Why big brother why did you do it?!"
"I will kill you!"
"We understand Itachi why you're doing this…."
"I will keep my word and won't attack the village in exchange for my cooperation."
"We have a new member to the organization."
"So many memories…So much pain…."
The Uchiha calmed himself down feeling the images disappearing he figured these images we're all connected to his memories from his world. But all of the images were scattered in no specific order whatsoever, he didn't understand any of them only there was a lot of pain in those pieces of his memory. Then he wondered if the others were having the same thing and eventually he thought that it was a symptom that he might get his memory back. Yet he didn't want to remember like he just revealed to the group, after experiencing this he was determined not to remember anything at all. He suddenly sensed a presence and went into the offensive as he quickly draws his katana and blocked the incoming attack coming from a gun blade. The raven haired shinobi saw Lightning as his attacker he was still crossing weapons with her. Her eyes were focused she quickly took a step back still holding her weapon.
"Just making sure you haven't let down your guard. You didn't look like you were doing a good job during watch just now."
"I'm fine…."
"You didn't look fine to me."
"It's nothing…."
"You don't have to tell me your reasons for not wanting to remember your memories."
"Is that your reason for being here?" he turned to her looking curious.
"Actually no, get some rest I'll take over for now."
"I don't feel tire…."
"You don't have to be, I'm ordering you to take a rest now go."
"With all due respect Lightning, I see no obligation to obey you-"
He stood quiet not finishing his sentence meeting the tip of the sharp blade of her Blazefire saber. The Uchiha wasn't fazed by the menacing act his onyx eyes were calm and collected not a single tint of fear in them. He stood staring at her aqua eyes surprisingly there was no anger in them for his comment. Naturally she will get upset that he will defy her order, after all she was the taking the lead of the group while they resumed their journey to Cosmos Sanctuary. He should at least follow her lead and obey in whatever order she will give him. As far as he has known the Farron in this world she was a proud warrior who has a lot of confidence in her abilities and not following her orders will be counted as an insult to her character. But it made him curious to see her eyes not having that spark of anger being reflected.
"You've been taking the watch long enough. I'll take over, you get some rest and if your refuse you'll be a head shorter."
"You should know empty threats don't work on me. Perhaps Naruto or Laguna but not me" he actually felt amused by her attitude.
"Who says it's an empty threat?"
"Very well then, goodnight Lightning" he walked off sheathing his katana giving a small smile.
"Goodnight…." Too bad he never saw the quick smile that has spread her lips when he accepted her request, or more precise her command.
"By the way" she called out to him letting him turned to her.
"I know we're not supposed to fight each other. But I hope we can have a fight to test our skills, no holding back…."
"A fight…Are you insinuating a sparring match or a fight between rivals?"
"Both…."
"I see, perhaps someday" he finally walked off leaving the pink haired soldier with her thoughts.
The Farron gave a sigh as she turned her gaze towards the dark sky she did meant to have a match against him to see who is the most skill, she already knew he was very strong. Until that day comes she will wait for it to arrive.
"Right…Someday…."
(Time skip: the next day)
(Location: Cosmos Sanctuary)
The group was walking the long path inside the tower where Cosmos held her Sanctuary for her warriors. After a long journey they have finally reached their destination and best of all they didn't encounter any danger. Which made some members think thighs through like Itachi and Kain, it was very odd that they didn't met any warrior of Chaos. The Uchiha was still trying to get over of his experience from all the scattered images that weren't in order, being part of his memory. Naruto smiled happy to have taken the right path to get to Cosmos, even if Shikamaru was right and ended up walking in circles. Lightning didn't want to admit that they have made it because Laguna took charge, she will make sure it will be the last time the soldier will get the chance. But she felt relief like everyone else for making it safe and sound.
"We've arrived" said Yuna.
Lightning gave a nod hoping that the Goddess of Harmony called them for a good reason.
"Shall we then?" asked the Uchiha.
"I just hope we're in time, don't want to look bad in front of everyone for arriving late" said Naruto.
"And yet we could have arrive way early if you didn't took charge and kept us running around in circles" added Shikamaru.
"Knock it off it's not like you volunteered to take charge because you lack the motivation for it!" the whiskered blond had a vein popped from the back of his head.
"It was troublesome to take the lead so I let you do it, big mistake from my part."
"Maybe if you weren't so lazy you might have done a way better job than me" mumble the blond.
"The others must be there already, let's go" said the summoner.
"Hope they didn't get tired of waiting" Vaan replied with his hand on the back of his head.
"A little distance can be good for a relationship, you know?" said Laguna.
"Let's hope they see it that way" replied Tifa.
Lightning took a deep breath walking ahead of the group.
"Come on…."
They resumed their walking heading further deeper as they managed to spot the rest of warriors of harmony. They saw everyone was already present making them think they were late and they were waiting for their arrival. In the right corner stood the warriors treasure hunter Bartz, the young thief Zidane and the master of weapons Firion. Next to them stood the blitzer warrior Jecht and the knight with the power of light and darkness Cecile Harvey, there were more warriors in the left corner. The silent warrior Squall and the young warrior Onion knight, along with the rest of the shinobis Naruto and Shikamaru knew at least from name and village. Gaara the fifth Kazekage of the sand village and his older sister Temari were behind Squall. The weapon mistress Tenten and the Hyuga heiress Hinata next to the sand siblings, the rest of the warriors walked to join them walking to the warrior in the middle which he's the warrior of light.
"Nice of you to join us" said Temari.
"Are we late?" asked a nervous Naruto.
"No, you're just in time" replied Gaara.
"Thank goodness" the Uzumaki gave a sigh of relief.
Before all the warriors stood a brilliant light and the figure of the beautiful woman who smiles at all of them. The Goddess of harmony Cosmos stared at all of her warriors before closing her and joining her hands as a bright blue light was released. The blue rays were all scattered around entering the bodies of all the warriors present. The light felt like a warm sensation feeling like it was giving them the strength they need, this was the Goddess's way to give her blessings to her warriors. Lightning lifted her arm catching the blue light on her hand feeling its warmness entering her body maybe with this they'll be able to stand a chance against the warriors of Chaos. Itachi let the light in feeling honored to have been given this power by the Goddess. Naruto and the rest of the shinobis felt the power behind the light and they already felt like they have become stronger. Once the light faded everyone left parting ways with the Goddess shared her words with them.
"You must defeat the God of discord. Stop Chaos, and end this conflict."
Lightning stayed a little longer staring at Cosmos, shortly she left joining everyone else. Itachi waited for the pink haired soldier to follow but as he was about to turn and leave, something caught his eye. He saw Kain walking to the warrior of light. Now there was no mistrust or suspicious among the warriors of harmony because they were all on the same side of the Goddess. But he couldn't help but wonder what was this all about, it really looked a bit suspicious for someone to meet up with another just when everyone else have left. However at the distance he was in, it will be impossible to listen to any word they will say. He had the solution for the problem, his onyx eyes turned crimson red with three tomoes activating his bloodline dojutsu the sharingan. With its power he will be able to read the lips of the two warriors.
"There's something I would like to discuss with you…."
"Your tone sounds like your hiding something, and your words sound like it's quite urgent."
"I'm afraid it is very urgent, the fate of this war lies in our conversation."
"I see the truth in your words, very well speak."
"Not here, somewhere more private…."
"As you wish…."
The Uchiha deactivated the sharingan knowing he wasn't to hear any more so he vanished leaving the Sanctuary. But the dragon knight's words have really perked his curiosity and interest, something was up he could feel it. Whatever it was his intuition was reacting that it was something not good.
To be continued
There the first chapter is done let me know what you think with a review. Next we'll take a look at the warriors of Chaos and their plans. Lucky Naruto he got the chance to be so close to Tifa to have front row tickets to her chest I'm so jealous of him. This story will be updated frequently at least I will try hard to make it so. Next I will update Defiers since I'm already working on the chapter with over 5,000 words so far though I won't guarantee it will be a long chapter. Thank you I will see you all next time farewell!
Next chapter: The mannequins attack
