Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and FFXIII they rightfully belong to Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

** Communications through phones and radio

(Bold and parenthesis Eidolons speaking)

*Kyuubi speaking*


Chapter 29 Sustained by hate

(Location: Central Conflux the fifth Ark beneath Eden inner rim Cocoon)

After the big fight against Raines the l'Cie group headed to another elevator in the Ark. They took a small break to heal their wounds from the tough battle they have experienced. They thought fighting Barthandelus was tough this last one was even tougher than the one with primarch. But ever since they left the place where the fought the Cavalry general no one has said a word it was pretty much understandable, they have figured out the truth about Raines. All along he was an l'Cie playing his parts to aid them in a dream that died long ago he became a tool just like them burdened with a focus. Out of the most shocking they found out is that he told them the reason why Barthandelus wanted them to carry out their focus in destroying Cocoon.

To summon the all-powerful being known as the Maker who according to Raines he was the one who created both humans and Fal'Cie. The Maker existed many years ago but left this world and now the only requirement to bring him back was a large number of sacrifices. That's was the reason to destroy Cocoon, sacrificing the entire population to summon him. With the Maker returning this world could be cleanse and began a whole new beginning, according to the primarch. However something good came from fighting the Cavalry general when they found out that he was fighting them in order to prevent the Fal'Cie's plan to be successful. He chose to defy his focus by trying to save their world and in the end he was turned to crystal, via not fulfilling it like it was meant to.

The group has entered to the elevator room and without saying a word Lightning activated the controls making it move. It was heading down just like the previous one, this time it had a surprise. From above them three circuitron landed and they immediately took action defeating them before they use self-destruct. After the short fight they resumed the wait as the elevator was lowering down to reach another area of the Ark. It was too quiet probably thinking about the fate of Raines that he hated being burdened with a focus he didn't wanted to fulfill, just like them who had no intentions in carrying out theirs. Some members of the party were in deep thought, a lot has happened since they all reunited.

Snow was too concentrated in his thinking feeling betrayed after finding out the truth about Raines. He deceived them all from the start, him aiding them was all part of Barthandelus's plans. But at the same time he pitied the Cavalry general for being an l'Cie, to be used as a tool just for the sake of fulfilling his focus. His angered vanished when he found out that he came on his own free will with the attempt to stop them as his own way to try and save Cocoon. He challenge his focus, he chose to defy it giving up in being a tool of the Fal'Cie. He turned to crystal and that made him wonder, if he challenged his own fate then maybe he can do it too. No need to think about it he was going to save Cocoon following Serah's wishes even if he turns to Cie'th or crystal, he didn't care anymore.

Lightning noticed the deep silent from everyone it felt uncomfortable that no one has spoken a word since Raines's defeat, it didn't felt right. They were still bothered to find out he was an l'Cie all along that he was helping them as part of his focus while she understood how he felt to be a tool of the Fal'Cie and do something he didn't wanted to. To be obligated to do something just for the sake of fulfilling a focus was wrong, to have control of their actions and fate was the Fal'Cie's way when they brand people. Even herself who wasn't such a big talker thought that this silence was really irritating her, they needed to remain strong if they want to escape from this place. She turned her gaze to Naruto and Sasuke something else was bothering her, the last words spoken by Cavalry general.

Naruto has been quiet too feeling all kinds of emotions, mainly because of Raines. Thinking he has failed in convincing to change his mind in stopping them instead of joining them in their quest to save Cocoon. Now he's been turned to crystal just like Serah, he made the wrong choices for the right reasons. The Cavalry general was just like them they want to save this world not destroy it, their focus didn't mattered if it included killing millions of people. However another thing that had the blond jinchurikki in thought were his last words, they were still been said in his head. Those words shocked him a lot and he eventually believed they were true, he took a glance at Sasuke who was in thought he was probably thinking the same thing too.

"You two have a different focus."

"Your focus is different from the others, don't lose sight of it."

That was the one thing that was bothering the most, the possibility that he and the Uchiha had a different focus aside from the original the others have. But it didn't made sense to the Uzumaki they were all branded by the same Fal'Cie so their focus should be the same as theirs, unless Anima made an exception with him and Sasuke and gave them a different one. The big question he was asking what was their focus they already had an idea that it was the destruction of Cocoon from two sources. The first source the dream they of Ragnarok in the city of Eden, branded by a Pulse Fal'Cie enemy of Cocoon. The second the revelation given by Barthandelus that they were chosen to become the tools of destruction of this world, it was proof enough.

"Was Raines telling the truth, do we really have a different focus?"

The he remembered what the great elder toad sage told him about his vision. That he will defeat the heart of Cocoon, who it was Orphan the source of Eden's power. He was destined to help everyone defeat it which will bring the end of their world, the toad's vision led to the conclusion that they will fulfill their focus. At the same time it didn't made sense if he and the Uchiha had a different focus, which it was probably not the destruction of Cocoon. Everything was so confusing and thinking too much was starting to hurt his brain, this new focus was really annoying him because he had no idea what it was. Another thing popped in his head that was part of Raines's last words to the group, it was supposed to be solid proof that their focus was different.

"It is written in the analects…."

"The analects…."

Of course he knew about the analects. He was lectured about them when he was in the military academy. They are supposed to be ancient records surrounding the myth of Gran Pulse and Cocoon, they were written many centuries ago. That was the only lead they have so far according to the Cavalry general his and Sasuke's focus is supposed to be written in one of the analects volume. He knew the location of them according to what he learned at the academy, in Eden there's a building where they are stored. But going to the Sanctum capital the way they were now was out of the question. It will be suicide to go there now, especially after what happened to the Sanctum flagship the Palamecia. By now the people must have heard about the news of such they will be keeping their eyes for the l'Cie.

The elevator finally stopped in the designated floor, the party walked to the door as it opened. They weren't surprised when they saw another wide area similar to the inner conflux they saw a group of phosphoric ooze in the distance they choose to take another route. Naruto made more shadow clones letting them get far ahead so they can scout the area further, they disappear he will received the information that they have gather by their traveling. They another route as they came across more enemies a group of phosphoric ooze with a Pulsework knight, the only difference that they were fighting each other. To Vanille and Sazh it wasn't the first time they have seen this display because back at the Vile Peaks they witnessed monsters fighting each other without noticing them.

The group play it smart and carefully pass through them, it will be better if they kill each other while they were at it. They took another turn heading into a door that leads them into another passage, they stopped to try and catch their breath. Just taking a small break from all the running in addition that they were still feeling the after effects of their big fight against Raines even if they were healed already, most of them were feeling tired of the fact that they've been here for a while. Lightning took a glance at them she couldn't blame them for feeling tired, they have done more fighting than the time they were on the Palamecia or Palumpolum. She turned to see Naruto and Sasuke, both have taken some distance from the rest as they seem to be having a private conversation.

She felt a little left out she has known the two former soldiers for a while. They were family to her and yet they didn't included her in their conversation, it was definitely something personal for them to leave her out of it. It bothered her if it was personal they should share it with her they already knew about her and Serah than anyone else. It was bugging her too much she felt like going there and knock some sense to both of them, she remained calm and focused on something else. If she had to guess what they were talking about it probably had something to do with what Raines told them, she didn't know what to think of it. Too many things have happened for them to believe anything, their focus, Dysley being a Fal'Cie, Raines being an l'Cie and now this.

"Do you think Raines is right?"

"About us having a different focus?" Sasuke turned to him.

"I don't know what to think, but maybe he wasn't lying. Why would he tell us that before he turned to crystal?"

"We shouldn't believe him…."

"Well if we believed a Sanctum Fal'Cie of our focus why not a Sanctum l'Cie?"

"You have a point but I won't hold my hopes up."

"We do have proof that he might have been right. Remember the other thing he said that it is written in the analects."

"Our focus, not sure about that…."

"Only one way to find out is to search for the analects and read them" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Out of the question according to what they taught us at the military academy. The analects are located in the secret archives in Eden no one is allowed to enter unless that person gets permission from the primarch."

"Another location the academy told us, they were edited in the Cocoon encyclopedia at the Eden library. Guess we can't go there either."

"That's it, so much for thinking ahead."

"I wonder if there's another place where we can find the analects" the Uzumaki stood in thought.

"Man this place is huge I'm beginning to wonder if we'll ever find a way out of here" said Sazh.

"Arks are built like any other building, with an entrance and an exit" replied Fang.

"Well this exit seems to be very far away. We've been going down too many times just how many floors this place has?" asked Snow.

"Naruto will tell us thanks to his clones" said Hope.

"That's right I will say a word if my clones have found a way out, or if they run into trouble."

They were done with the small break as they continued ahead. The door opened revealing a wide closed area they were also three large steel gates like they were keeping something inside, or the sort. They room looked kind of suspicious for the party, but then again the entire Ark was suspicious. The large doors started opening, one of them showed three Pulsework knights, the second and third door revealed three circuitron making a total of six. Now the group had their hands full with quite the number of enemies, the circuitron were the biggest threat because they can do self-destruct.

"I guess they don't train l'Cie to make peace" said Lightning.

"To Cocoon and Pulse I guess they will always see l'Cie as tools for battle" replied the whiskered blond.

The pink haired soldier nodded he was right it was the same to both side. To the Fal'Cie they were nothing but tools and their lives were expendable both Pulse and Cocoon follow the same logical philosophy. You get branded you fulfill your focus and that's it, neither care of what one thought l'Cie were cursed with the burden of fulfilling it or they will end up as Cie'th. Raines was the latest victim to suffer that fate as the burden to fulfill a focus, like them he chose to stand up and challenge his destiny. That is why they were going to find a way to suffer his fate and fulfill what they were asked to by Serah and not by what Barthandelus told them.

The former sergeant took a small glance at Naruto remembering Raines's words before he became crystal. The Cavalry general told them to trust themselves and do what was right, yes she took his words to heart she knew what she wanted to do. Fulfill her sister's wishes to save Cocoon from the Fal'Cie's twisted schemes with the help of her friends. However the one thing that had concerned and in deep thought were his last words to Naruto and Sasuke, both seem to share a different focus, different from the ones she and the others were given. She didn't believe it could be true because they were all branded by the same Pulse Fal'Cie, so by logic they all have the same focus. It was all so confusing why they would have a different focus to begin with.

Her thinking was interrupted when the enemy monsters spotted them. The circuitron made their move towards them and much to group's horror they have activated their self-destruct ability. They knew what to do fighting all of them was suicide so they did the most obvious course of action, they ran. The party ran heading to the door on the opposite side of the chamber, exiting through the door they were on another similar room. The three large steel doors opened revealing more Pulsework knights and circuitron and new enemies added in the room one stikini, before engaging them in battle the circuitron activated self-destruct just like the previous ones. The group decided to avoid another battle as they headed to the next door that hopefully will get them out of here.


(Time skip)

It seems like hours have passed by for the l'Cie group and it was no easy walk in the park traveling through the Ark. They thought that it couldn't get any worse as they travel further, they were very wrong. There were battles they avoided but most of them they were put in a spot where they didn't have a choice but to fight. The enemies were strong and annoying they have fought more stikini and skata'ne with a great addition of a greater Behemoth. More encounters included more circuitron, Pulsework knights and some phosphoric ooze this area truly speaks for its purpose to toughen up l'Cie. It was working quite well that they were getting strong because they didn't had such a hard time defeating most of the monsters.

They have stopped in another seal corridor and things were really getting tired. It looked the entire place had no end that kept on going forever. It was endless training ground for l'Cie with the only purpose of making them stronger adapting to their powers, or probably to exhaust them to death it seems it had both choices. Another break was inevitable if they wanted to continue moving on and heading forward, it was the only alternative to go. Lightning saw it easily because she was in charge in leading them at least there were people who can keep up like Naruto, Sasuke, Snow and Fang but the others weren't so lucky. Hope was tough but he had a limit the same with both Sazh and Vanille.

The former sergeant took the lead again while the rest was ready to resume the journey. To their surprise there was another elevator making it the third elevator they will be taking, the pink haired soldier activated the controls as it began moving lowering to the next floor. All three elevators went lower they were beginning to think how lower they could possibly go and how floors were left until they can find an exit out of the Ark. Members like Sazh were beginning to think that probably there wasn't a way out, that this was all a trap set by Barthandelus to throw them off balance making them succumb to fulfilling their focus. All for purpose in summoning the Maker back to this world so he can be the responsible to cleanse everything and make a better world, or so the Fal'Cie says.

Just like the last elevator they took enemies fell from above only this time it was different from circuitron. Two skata'ne and one stikini and as always when they have engaged them in combat thee group took out the stikini first because of its delirious dance or furious dance, afterwards they took out the skata'ne. Fang smirked as she sheathed her lance turning to the group to her horror she saw that everyone has turned to Cie'th, everyone have turned into a group of Ghast. She was shocked thinking that the transformation happened so soon and even when she was warning them to check on their brands. Just like that she was snapped from the fearful vision as she was staring at Vanille who has woken her up.

"You okay Fang?" she was concerned her eyes said that much.

"I….." the Pulsian huntress turned to everyone they were all normal looks like her mind was playing tricks on her.

"Fang….?"

"I'm okay heh sorry about that."

The red head didn't believe her she knew her that well, something was bothering her. She looked like she has woken up from a bad dream, a really bad nightmare. Everyone else was staring at her worried she didn't looked like she was all right, anyone could see it she wasn't trying to fool anyone. Of all the members of the l'Cie group Sasuke kept his gaze at her he was wondering what was wrong with her, although he knew what she's been through. After she told him some of her past he understood what she was going through, experiencing hatred, revenge, killing people she's the closest person that has experienced the same hell as he's. But acting like this now it was strange since she hasn't acted up ever since he first met her.

The elevator finally reaching the respective floor while most of the members of the group were hoping that this will be the last time they will take another elevator. They left the area heading into another sealed corridor as everyone walked being leaded by Lightning Fang was the only one who was left behind. The Pulsian huntress was in deep thought at what she saw, it wasn't her imagination but rather her fear that everyone will turn to Cie'th except for herself. She slowly touched her scourged brand it was messed up meaning she won't be affected by the transformation she was safe from the burden of carrying out a focus. The only reason she was traveling with them was to find the way for them to turn to Cie'th.

It really scared her, the thought of them becoming Cie'th with only her being the 'lucky one'. To lose them will be devastating more important people taken away from her, it was enough she could take. She already witnessed losing her people, her clan, and her village at the hands of the Cocoon Fal'Cie. Losing this group to them too will be the last draw to unleash her anger, Cocoon took everything for her and if she didn't do something to help them, they will shortly follow. She walked the corridor with a thoughtful while hiding the hatred she felt for the Fal'Cie for using human as tools, for seeing them as expendables objects that only serve the purpose to obey them. Nobody deserves to have their fates cursed and control by others, especially the people traveling with her.

"Fang….?"

"Hmm…." she saw Vanille before her.

"Come on you're getting behind everyone."

"Right I was caught up in my thinking" she walked increasing her speed until she was back with the group behind Snow and Sazh.

"Oh…." the red head was walking beside her.

"Yeah…."

"About what?" she turned to her.

"…."

"Fang….?"

"Just thinking of an exit out of this ark…."

"That's the reason why we're exploring around" she gave a small smile she thought her answer was silly.

"Sure I forgot silly me huh…." her eyes were far off she was in deep thought again.

"You're thinking about our focus" she replied sounding serious but her tone was filled with concern.

She wasn't surprised of course Vanille will see right through her she knew her well. They have known each other since they were kids it was quite predictable that she could read her like an open book. The female warrior knew her best friend has hit the nail on the head that was the reason why they woke up, to supposedly finish their focus. Not carrying out was the reason why this whole mess started in the first place why people in Cocoon got branded by Anima and they were all enemies in everyone's eyes. She kept her eyes ahead avoiding contact with the red head which made her pout not liking her attitude.

Vanille was worried about her friend it was always the same, she will get worry about their focus. It was even worse when she didn't remember it that was enough to upset her. She was worried for not just for her but everyone here traveling with them, leave it to Fang befriended with people from Cocoon. But then again they were all the same as they were, Pulse l'Cie branded by the same Fal'Cie. The red head felt sad for her close friend she has suffered so much and now she trying shouldering everything on herself, that was the kind of person she is. She care for everyone facing the same wretched fate and find a way to save them, but it was to be expected from someone who lost her family and precious people.

"Want to talk about it?" she smiled hoping she will open up and talked.

"…."

"Fang please-"

"Let's keep up with everyone Vanille, tried not fall behind eh?"

"Fang" her green eyes softened as she nodded.

As the two Pulsians catched up to the group they didn't notice Sasuke has been staring them for a while. The Uchiha gazed at both of them before turning his attention ahead he was in deep thought, thinking about the Pulsian huntress. He knew she has remembered her focus and what she did before turning to crystal either she was punishing herself for what she did when she transformed into Raganarok or maybe it was their focus. Dysley wanted them to destroy Cocoon and summon the Maker but he thought that couldn't be what might have her so bothered, and quiet. It made him wonder why now of all times she will be feeling restless about all that has happened since Anima was discovered at the Vestige, including her past.

The former PSICOM soldier was really lost in thought not realizing that Hope was walking next to him. The silver haired teen was staring at him thinking about the last time they have met for the first time at the Vestige, it was a bad start. He frowned slightly his attitude towards him wasn't a good one angering him he admitted that he didn't like the Uchiha because of how he treated him. Compared to Naruto who was the opposite of him and he got along well with him seeing as a good friend, but the raven haired l'Cie was a different story. After thinking for a while he turned to the teen not looking happy, it was his usual broody expression.

"What?"

"I…it's nothing."

"Then why are you staring at me?"

"It's just that I find it strange."

"Find what strange?" he was getting annoyed why was the teen being cryptic.

"I find it strange you haven't called me Hopeless since we reunited back at Palumpolum all the way till now."

The Uchiha stood in thought that was pretty much true. Not once he has thought about it since he met up with the teen when they saved them from PSICOM at the capital of commerce. It hasn't occurred to him before because too many things have happened and because all the battles they fought, including here. It never crossed his mind to call him by the nickname he chose to give him because he was such a scary coward, looking at him he felt like he shouldn't called him that to begin with. Especially when he knew that he lost his mother at the Purge that he was on the path to take revenge on Snow, as the one who was responsible for the woman's death along with hundreds of innocent people.

"You haven't given me reason to call you that."

"What?" he was surprised at his answer.

"Compared to how you used to act when we got branded. You're not whining, you don't look scare and you're not crying you seem to have matured."

"You think?"

"You have survived so far it also shows you have become stronger."

"It's because of Light and Naruto, they helped me get this far. I guess everyone else have helped too, even you."

"….."

"Your words, if you haven't said those things I would have never gotten the courage to move on and become strong. But then again-I move ahead because of Operation Nora."

"Operation Nora….?"

"It's….well it was my revenge. It was a failed operation that shouldn't have ever been thought in the first place. But thanks to Naruto I was able to overcome my hatred and realized that revenge wasn't the answer, it will only bring me more pain and more hate."

"….."

"Sasuke….?"

Looking at it from Hope's point of view he was right, he knew it better than anyone. His revenge to kill Itachi poisoned his soul but it felt like a wonderful drug that he couldn't stop taking, he needed it to survive. He spent seven years of his life dedicated to train and become strong all with the purpose to kill his older brother, eventually all the hatred that enters your heart and soul blinds you forever from the light of reason. You stopped seeing the truth and reality of things, a small smile has formed on his lips taking a glance at the teen. Once again Naruto has changed another person his heart brought back to the light becoming someone better with no negative emotions. He turned to the whiskered blond who was in the front with Lightning as they entered a new room.

The new chamber was similar to the one with the four frozen berserkers, minus the other two that came back to life. However there were only two berserkers in the room, one on each opposite side giving the party a bad feeling. The most obvious thing will be that at least one of them will come to life, and sadly for the group it was true. The first berserker on the right side was the one that leap from the small platform and started walking around, everyone got ready to fight because it was going to spot them. Avoiding the large creature was impossible since they were at close proximity of the monster.

"Wait" Sasuke stopped them as he activated his sharingan.

"Leave this to me."

The group had no idea what he was going to do when the berserker was walking towards them. The strangest thing was that it saw them but it wasn't attacking them, the creature wasn't engaging in attack formation. It was like they weren't even there and it couldn't see them, it was clear to Naruto what was going on. The blond jinchurikki gave a grin as he waved everyone that everything was all right he resumed walking followed by a confused Lightning staring at the creature then back at him.

"What the-what's wrong with that thing it should be attacking us by now?" asked Sazh.

"Maybe it thinks we're not worth it's time, they can get cocky" said Snow.

"It's not that, it can't see us" replied the whiskered blond.

"How come?" asked the pink haired soldier.

"Sasuke cast a genjutsu on it."

"A what….?" Fang was snapped from her thinking.

"Genjutsu…."

"Okay….would you like to give us a proper explanation to what in Eden is that?" asked the afro haired pilot.

"Genjutsu it's a type of technique casting illusions to fool the enemy's sight. Sasuke's bloodline can do that."

"It's one of the many abilities of the sharingan" replied the Uchiha.

"Right I forgot" said a sarcastic Uzumaki.

"So you're bloodline has that kind of ability" said the Pulsian huntress.

"It doesn't see us?" asked Hope.

"Yep to the monster he doesn't see a single thing."

"Hey wait a minute-you could have done that all along and save us all the crazy fighting!" said Sazh.

"We're supposed to fight here and grow strong, that's the point of the ark" replied the Uchiha.


(Time skip)

It was a good thing they avoided the fight with the berserker back at the transept. Because in the wide area they were constantly ambushed by skata'ne and skitini, leaving them to fight off guard, and that wasn't a good thing. Good thing they had the advantage in numbers or they would have been beaten bad by the dancing creatures, thanks to a lot of buff spells and debuff spells. Once they were done with the monsters they walked to the next door that will lead them to the next area, and things were getting really tired. By now the party we're hoping to find the exit out of this place, they've been traveling for so long and it was getting tiring walking in an area so big that looked like it had no end.

Naruto blinked" guys my shadow clones were taken out by two berserkers."

"Can you please give us some good news, we know this place is filled with bad creepy crawlers from Pulse?" said Sazh.

"Yeah but I found a big door after this place, it's different from the others. I think that could be the exit."

"There is your good news right there" Snow smirked at the afro haired man.

"And let me guess we have to get through those berserkers?"

"I guess" the blond jinchurikki gave a silly grin.

"That's some good news" replied the afro haired pilot sarcastically.

"Maybe they'll be nice and they will go back to sleep" said Vanille.

"If they haven't bothered from the beginning they won't start now" replied Sasuke.

As they resumed their walking Fang was once again behind the group still lost in thought. It was back again seeing everyone's efforts for nothing, imagining that they will turn into Cie'th failing to carry out their focus. That included everyone aside from herself she turned to them as they door opened entering another corridor, they were all going to become heartless monsters. She knew very well knew they had no intention in fulfilling their focus, if Barthandelus was right that their focus is Cocoon's destruction. They weren't planning that but the opposite which was to save it, because that was the right thing to do. But for the Pulsian huntress it was the right thing to do that for once be selfish and take the path to save themselves instead of the world that fears and hate l'Cie.

Her eyes softened staring at the people that have become friends and allies in such short time. She gazed over at Lightning and has come to take a deep respect for the pink haired soldier she chose not to have a grudge of hatred towards her for what happened to her sister. The former sergeant felt like a close companion and she didn't minded having another tough woman around, she got along with her just fine. Her eyes we're now on Naruto a smile was formed on her lips the whiskered blond has become a close friend after he told her about Vanille back at the Enstheim residence. He was able to tell about the red head's façade he saw right through her of all the pain she was hiding, because he experience something similar.

Hope was next she gave a small nod accepting the teen, he was young but he managed to stay strong even in the most crucial times. He was brave and has shown to be a force to be reckon with in using magic, Vanille was probably second strongest in offensive magic after him. Sazh was next she was happy he didn't hate her for what happened to his son, it was the same thing with Lightning not having hatred towards her. Snow followed and she has nothing to say about the NORA leader she already saw him as a friend since she first met him, or rather captured him at Lake Bresha. Vanille was next in line and she had nothing to say because she was family and she will do anything to protect her and keep her safe.

Her green eyes softened as she turned to Sasuke he will be gone too if they didn't carry out their focus. It was cleared and she knew that the feelings she has developed for the Uchiha were strong, and she didn't deny them. He has become that close in such a short time and after hearing about the tragedy that befalls his clan under the hands of his older brother, she shared a kindred spirit with him. All of them didn't care of what will become of their tragic fate was it all worthy to throw it all away just to save a world. She kept asking herself the same question sacrificing the lives of her friends, but then again she already saw the group more than just her friends. It felt like she has been given another chance to have a family, not the same as the one that she lost at the hands of the Cocoon Fal'Cie but enough for her.

"Fang….?"

Snapping from her thoughts going back to reality she saw Lightning before her" what is it Light?"

"You looked like you have a lot on your mind."

"No kidding…."

"Care to talk about it?"

The female warrior grinned" why Light I didn't know you care."

"I see it as part of my responsibility, why so thoughtful?"

"It's nothing much mate, just want to get out of here already. I've been locked in here for far too long."

"Really?" she crossed her arms not believing her.

"Yeah really" she walked passed her while the former sergeant still didn't believe her.

"What are you hiding Fang?"

She gave a sigh before taking the lead again she kept her gaze on the Pulsian warrior. Why she was acting so stubborn to tell others what was bothering her she thought it was for the best for someone to tell her problems to her comrades. The former sergeant knew Vanille was right about something wrong with the Pulsian woman, it wasn't normal for her to change her behavior so suddenly. But she eventually let it go there was nothing she can do or anyone could if she didn't wanted to say a word about it, but it didn't meant she like things to stay the way they were. The door opened revealing the chamber Naruto mentioned, before them stood the large door and the two berserker one in the front and the other near the door.

The group entered the chamber facing the first berserker the obvious course of action will be to fight with their current position the creature will see them. Sasuke was the first to reach for his weapon ready for the incoming fight he knew that they won't be able to avoid fighting the monster. The Uchiha turned to the group he sweat dropped because none of them had their weapons drawn like they didn't had plan to fight at all. The sight was enough to give the message to the former PSICOM soldier of what was going on and he didn't like it he wasn't approving of what they were up to. He took one last glance at Fang who was still deep thought and the one last in line, it almost looked like she was keeping her distance from the group.

"What?"

"Sasuke used genjutsu again to get pass them" said Naruto.

"No" he gave a frown.

"Why not….?"

"You're all getting lazy we're supposed to fight the monsters here."

"You know I have to agree with Sasuke, this place is supposed to help us get stronger right how about not wasting the chance?" said Snow.

"I guess you're right" said Hope.

"He does make a good point" replied Lightning.

"It's a good point, but come on we've been here for too long. Now now don't come glaring daggers at me I want to make a point too, I'm sure I ain't the only one who is tired of being here. The same goes with all the fighting am I right?" said Sazh.

The group stood in deep thought the afro haired pilot has made a good point too. They were pretty much sick of being the underground ark and they have come to miss the fresh air, the warm sun rays of phoenix and most of all freedom. Sasuke wasn't frowning much knowing that he was right although he enjoyed fighting and the training he was getting annoyed of being here for too long. But still he was staying with his choice that they should fight and developed their l'Cie abilities further. The rest seemed to be unsure in deep thought of what choice was better, both of the Uchiha and Sazh has made good points.

"Fine let's vote on the decision whether we'll fight the berserker or get pass by it with genjutsu. All those in favor that we should fight raise your hands now" said the Uzumaki.

Sasuke, Lightning and Snow raised their hands while the Uchiha frowned at the whiskered blond.

"You don't want to fight?"

"I guess I'm feeling lazy" he gave a silly grin.

"Still a dobe after all these years…."

"All right all those in favor that we should let Sasuke used genjutsu and pass them by raise their hands now."

Sazh, Hope, Vanille and Naruto raised their hands while the other three sweat dropped.

"Yay that's four votes against three we win" cheered Vanille.

"Yep looks like its genjutsu time" the blond jinchurikki grinned at the frowning Uchiha.

Lightning went to the whiskered blond and whispered something in his ear. Some of the group got curious like Hope and Vanille when they saw the blond turning beet red, with a small nose bleed. The ones who weren't so dense already had an idea what the pink haired soldier whispered to the whiskered blond. Sazh shook his head he was praying that he never finds out what she told him while Sasuke just gave a small grin it seemed the older Farron really knew the Uzumaki quite well. However Fang hasn't raised her when both choices were mentioned, no one notice that except for the Uchiha.

"Looks like we fight" said Snow.

"Fang what about you" Vanille turned to her friend.

"Hmm…."

"Fang….?"

"What is it?" she turned her attention to the red head and the group.

"Do you want to fight the monsters or let Sasuke handle it with his eye thing?"

"Genjutsu" the Uchiha corrected the red head.

"Let the fool take care of it, no need to get our hands dirty."

"Okay" she replied staring at her in thought.

"You sure?" the raven haired l'Cie was a little surprised to hear that.

"Just do it let's get the heck out of here already."

"Well at least someone fully agrees with me" replied a happy Sazh.

The Uchiha stood in deep thought something was really wrong with the Pulsian huntress. For as long as he has come to know her Fang was a proud warrior if she has to choose between fighting and running away, she will fight first then ask questions later. She was a hunter with a heart of a warrior there's no way she would want to avoid a fight it wasn't in her to turn the choice down. He gave a soft sigh he admitted he was worried for her, whatever was wrong with her was really messing her up. Without giving it another thought he activated his sharingan and cast genjutsu on both berserkers once they were under the eye jutsu they started walking, passing them like nothing was wrong. They climbed a small set of stair staring at the large door before them and Naruto was right, it was bigger than previous doors.

Lightning pressed the switch making the door to make a loud hiss, as it started to open. The party entered the room which it was a wide platform but before them stood the view of some kind of ruin city. There were destroyed buildings everywhere but looking at the scenery they all had the idea that this was no way out to leave the ark. There was nothing on sight that could be possibly be taken as an exit, the thought of them heading back to the way they came was truly annoying. To think after everything they have went through to get to this point, things were starting to look pretty hopeless. They were too much in thought to hear the large door closing in behind them.

"Looks like it's a dead end" said Hope.

"How about down there?" asked Sazh pointed to a random location in the ruin city.

"If the stories are right, it's a maze" said Vanille.

"Why the shadow clones didn't open the gate I would have been able to warn everyone?" sweat dropped Naruto at the small mistake.

"This place is a boot camp for l'Cie. All kinds of challenges from Gran Pulse are waiting" replied Fang.

"Challenges huh, to get us ready to get us ready to wipe out Cocoon?" said the afro haired pilot.

"We can wait here if turning Cie'th sounds better" replied the Pulsian huntress.

"I have had enough of this, where's the way out?" Sazh seemed to have finally snapped.

"Way out, who said there was one?" asked Snow.

"Bring it on" the NORA leader banged his fist walking ahead of the group taking the crystalized tear.

"My mind's made up. Maybe I'll end up Cie'th. But until that happens, I'm gonna make Serah proud. I couldn't bring myself to admit that this tear meant goodbye. And that's why I kept searching for her. But I didn't need to Serah was here the whole time. Right here, watching over me" he put his fist on his heart.

"Now I get it. What's this tear's been telling me is to not let our focus win. It's not the Fal'Cie we should listen to. It's Serah and Raines do you know why. Because our focus doesn't matter what matters to me is that we protect Cocoon whatever it takes!"

"Hell yeah Snow I'm with you all the way screw our focus!" cried a happy Naruto.

"Same here, I'll help you do it" Vanille went to him.

Snow showed his hand as she put hers as sign that they were together in this. They already did this before back at the Palamecia before facing Dysley showing they were together as a team.

"All right we're going to do team l'Cie again I want to be the first to say this time!" said the Uzumaki as he put his hand above the red heads'.

Hope followed after the whiskered blond" all right, I'm in."

The Chocobo chick landed on the teen's hand while Naruto grinned" looks like he's in too."

"I mean, come on when a Chocobo agrees you know you're on the right path!"

Sazh chuckle at the sight of the small bird standing on Hope's hand while Lightning smiled at the sight Sasuke was in thought but he gave a quick glance at Fang. The Pulsian huntress hasn't said a word or she hasn't volunteer for the loyal friendly gesture this was the time he wished he could read her mind using the sharingan. But he will be in big trouble looking into her thought which is something private, he knew she won't be happy with him most obvious thing she will get angry and send him flying.

"Hey Light why don't you join us?" the Uzumaki turned to her.

"No…."

"Come on don't be like that let's make the 'go l'Cie team cheer', go ahead you know you want to."

"I said no" she made it clear she wasn't interested.

The blond jinchurikki grinned when he quickly made a shadow clone and the clone took her hand making her go to the group. She was caught off guard when the clone made her put her hand on top of Hope's making the Chocobo chick fly way, but shortly the small bird returned to land this time on her hand. The pink haired soldier smacked the clone making it disappeared feeling embarrassed, but the damage was done so might as well leave her hand there.

"Go team" she was obviously being sarcastic.

"Sasuke!" the blond called his best friend.

"Forget it" was his only reply.

"It was worth the shot."

"Well, count me out."

They all turned to Fang who finally spoke since Snow started his inspiring speech. Sasuke was staring at her hearing her answer meant that he was right all along about what's been bothering her it was reasonable and predictable why she started to behave so different. The Pulsian huntress left the group getting further from them not wanting to look at them it was clear after hearing Snow they all made the decision not to carry their focus, but to defy it the same way Raines did with he's. The only thing that will come out from it is their doom, turning to Cie'th lose their humanity and their heart. Everyone will be gone Vanille, Sasuke, Lightning, Naruto everyone from the group people she has become close. The same people who were from Cocoon, the world that is her enemy but she ended forging bonds with them and she didn't regret it.

"If you all want to go it on your own…then so will I!" she took her lance facing the group.

"Hey, hey, now…."

"Fang what are you doing?" asked Naruto.

"Let Cocoon get what's coming. They hate us for being l'Cie what's it to me, if they die better that than watch a friend turn Cie'th. If you don't have the nerve for it, I'll do it myself. Go on alone, get strong and smash Cocoon out of the sky!"

"Fang!" Vanille cried.

"I agreed."

"What?"

They all turned to the Uchiha.

"Sasuke….?" Naruto was shocked.

"What are you saying?" asked Lightning.

"I honestly could care less what happens to Cocoon. It's not really my home, and maybe you forgot how they treated us when they found out we're l'Cie. Don't you remember watching the entire military going after us, heavily armed, willing to sacrifice a city just to have us executed, kill every man, woman and child all for the sake that we die!"

"You don't mean that I know you want save Cocoon too!" shouted Snow.

"Screw Cocoon!" glared the Uchiha.

"Damn it Sasuke you're angry that the Sanctum was willing to sacrifice a city because you didn't wanted to see innocent people die. But here you are going with the plan to kill the entire world filled with millions of Cocoon citizens!" said the Uzumaki.

"Sasuke…I knew I could count on you" Fang smiled.

The raven haired l'Cie left the group and went next to the Pulsian huntress joining her side in taking down Cocoon she was still smiling at him. Everyone was shocked at the betrayal that has taken place two of their friends have chosen to destroy the world floating in the above Pulse, in carrying out their focus.

"Thank you for staying by my side."

"…"

"Sasuke Fang please don't do this!" shouted Vanille.

"I don't want to see you failing miserably and end up Cie'th" said the former PSICOM soldier.

"That's right let's take down Cocoon together."

Just when they thought that everything was over, that they were losing hope. Sasuke has immediately taken Fang's lance he quickly pointed the weapon on her neck shocking the Pulsian woman along with the group, nobody saw that coming.

"What are you doing?" she felt hurt for his sudden act.

"See that idiot with the whiskers over there?" he pointed towards Naruto.

"Hey" sweat dropped the Uzumaki feeling insulted.

"He taught me how strong bonds are, once you forged bonds they become unbreakable. I have forged bonds with everyone, and I also forged bonds with some back at Cocoon. I don't care about the rest of the people, I only want to save it for the ones I forged bonds with and to save someone precious."

"Serah…." said the Pulsian huntress.

He nodded" and you too…."

Everyone was happy at Sasuke's decision but Vanille was still staring at her friend with concern in her green eyes. She knew how stubborn Fang can be and there was no way she was going to back down from her choice, once she makes up her mind it was almost impossible to convince her otherwise.

"So you're with them too?" she glared at him she was happy at first that he was siding with her.

She lowered her head nobody noticed the small tear that fell from her left eye" Sasuke I thought you understand…."

"You fool!"

She angrily punched him taking back her lance she pointed the weapon back at the group" fine I'll do it on my own!"

"Fang!" shouted Vanille.

She felt on one knee as her brand started glowing" you turn Cie'th, there's no coming back!"

"I'm not letting it…end that way!"

"Fang!" shouted Sasuke.

The Pulsian huntress gave a cry as she got on the ground a blue greyish circle was shown beneath her as the skies grew grey. From the skies the same symbol from the summoning circle was shown something fast came from it, it flew at high speed passing through the group at the speed of wind. Soon it seems to have changed forms and lowered itself before them the metallic diabolic being had his red eyes were on Fang. The party stood in awe at the sight of the creature but they already knew what it was because it was the female warrior the one who summoned it, although she didn't seemed happy to see it.

"It's her Eidolon" thought the Uchiha.

"What's he doing here?"

"You know him?" asked the Uchiha.

"Sort off…."

"Come to take pity on me?" she glared at the Eidolon as Vanille got next to her the rest of the group drew their weapons ready to fight.

(Pity….hahahah oh no I'm here to bring you pain).

"Come to take care of a broken l'Cie eh?"

(I will break you and make you suffer you will beg for death when I'm through with you hahahaha I just love hurting and destroying things!)

"He's a sadistic bastard I can't believe he's supposed to be my…."

"That thing's here to help us?" asked Snow.

"Yeah' help'" she was being sarcastic.

"That's what Eidolons do, they help us. Eidolons are our salvation. If we can't decide what to do next, they put us out of our misery!"

"So wait you haven't made up your mind yet?" Sazh got nervous.

The Eidolon started charging a powerful attack he fired it as Lightning and Naruto got in front of Fang as Snow stood front using his fist to manage to block the attack, it was sent flying to another part of the ruin city.

"Why are you protecting me what are you doing?"

"Protecting one of our own we can do without their brand of mercy. And we don't need a Fal'Cie's orders, either. I'm fighting this focus to the end. We all are!"

"And nothing or no one isn't going to change our minds!" said Naruto.

The Eidolon started charging another attack firing it faster than the previous one. The group gasped but the black was destroyed by a shot of ardor, they turned to see Sasuke walking ahead of them gazing at the being.

"Sasuke…."

"You don't want us to become Cie'th we get it. You don't have to drag yourself like this just to try and protect us I understand how you feel. You hate Cocoon and it's all right to hate them after what you went through so don't be ashamed to hide that hatred. Save it with us for the sake of keeping the bonds you have forged with us, don't do this alone Fang."

"What….did Fang got her memory back, does she remembers our focus?" thought a shocked Vanille.

"Sasuke I…." she stood in thought he was right he wanted to keep the bonds she has forged with the group, that is why she was so afraid to lose them if they turn Cie'th.

"Please fight with us Fang let's fight this focus together" Lightning raised her hand.

The Pulsian huntress gave a nod making up her mind as she took the former sergeant's hand.

(Naruto do not interfere).

"Arthur why….?"

(Bahamut has chosen your friend to take his trial only two more can aid her in it).

"A three on one battle huh…."

"Vanille" Sasuke readied Masamune.

"Right!" she took her binding rod as the three were ready to take on Bahamut.

"I'm returning the favor for helping me fight Hades."

"Thanks" she smiled at him.

"Guys let them handle it" said the whiskered blond.

"Why?" asked Snow.

"It's something about the trial the Eidolon is giving Fang, only two more people can help her fight."

"So we should you just watch and do nothing?" Sazh didn't seem to like the idea.

"You guys can do it!" Hope started cheering for the trio.

"It was the same when I first summoned Odin, only three of us fought him as part of his trial."

"Let them handle this" said the pink haired soldier trusting in Naruto's words.

Fang nodded at the two companions besides her spinning her lance gazing at the Eidolon" ready when you are!"

(Doom!)

Fang got hit by the spell seeing before her a countdown of seventeen minutes, she knew what to do. Defeat the Eidolon before times runs out or it will be lights out for her Sasuke was aware of the trial and what needed to be done before it was too late. Bahamut didn't waste time attacking the Pulsian woman with his dragon claws while Vanille cast debuffs on the creature casting, deportect, deshell, poison and imperil. Sasuke caught the Pulsian huntress before she hit the ground obviously his only target was her, he set her on the ground as he went for the offensive. He attacked with thundara and ardor he wasn't seemed to be harm by the attacks, he saw Fang next to him attacking but it was a big mistake. The Eidolon used his whirlwind hitting them both he followed using the magic attack umbral vise.

The rest of the group saw the whole fight to be very difficult and it was tempting to jump in and help them. It wasn't easy watching your friends in trouble and the only thing you can do is watch, but they watched and cheered for their allies. The trio was using the offensive using magic to battle the Eidolon but it wasn't harming it much, he used a combo of whirlwind, umbral vise and ignis. Meaning that he was beating them bad no choice but to go strong, Sasuke acted first activating the sharingan. He charged at Bahamut using chidori stream it was able to paralyze the Eidolon in his tracks, Vanille attacked using fira and aerora. Fang followed the Uchiha attacking but they were harming it greatly, meaning they needed another strategy.

(It is futile).

"Damn this isn't working we need to change strategy" thought Sasuke.

"I'll show you futile, I'm the one who should take you out" Fang readied her lance.

(I want you to scream for me in agony).

"Fang don't do it we're here to help you!" said Vanille.

"She's right this attack formation isn't working we need to change. Fang defend we'll attack."

"You want me to take his attacks I summon him I'm the one to taking him down!"

"Listen I got a plan but all of us have to play our part, so play yours" said the Uchiha.

"Fine I'll get his attention."

"Vanille keep on attacking and heal when you have to."

"Got it!"

(You won't survive now scream for me!)

Bahamut unleashed inferno followed by ingis hitting the trio. The group gasped at the sight they were getting hurt badly while the Eidolon was laughing enjoying the pain he was inflicting on them. Vanille got up painfully wounded she cast cura on everyone they were in a tight pinch the being wasn't showing mercy attacking on all of them. She focused on healing the group as Fang went with provoke to get his attention, Bahamut had his sights on her. She used steelguard she blocked dragon claw, whirlwind and umbral vise while Sasuke charged using ardor and dark. Seeing that he was getting harm the Eidolon got back using ingis and inferno hurting the trio, Vanille used cura healing the group. They resumed using the same strategy and it seemed it was been effective against the being.

(More….more pain I'll make all of you hurt!)

"Ugh he's getting so annoying" thought an angry Fang.

The Pulsian warrior kept using steel guard while the Eidolon kept on attacking her while getting attacked by both Sasuke and Vanille. The only problem that the Eidolon was using his wide range magic attacks ignis and inferno leaving for the red head to cast healing magic. The Uchiha was getting annoyed attacking it with everything he had and he wasn't harming it that much he knew Eidolon were strong but this was ridiculous, both magic and jutsu were hurting it critically. But then again this was all just a test of Bahamut to prove if the summoner was worthy to continue living and to be the one tame his power, Fang was the key to win the fight. He focused his sharingan to cast a genjutsu and found out the being wasn't affected by it, even predicting his moves were becoming quite a pain.

"This Eidolon is worse than Hades"."

(You have no idea).

"What?" he heard Hades speaking to him?

(You can say Bahamut enjoys pain and destruction more than myself, I shall say as much as I hate him his power is quite admirable).

"You hate him….?"

(Just talking to myself pay no attention to it).

The battle got worse when the Eidolon used a large combo that knocked the trio to the ground while the others were shocked. Naruto, Lightning and Snow were at the brink of charging in there and aid their friends they were all getting hurt and they didn't want to say and watch. Vanille healed the group following Sasuke's lead to attack, both cast magic as the Uchiha lunge attacking the being with Masamune, he followed with chidori stream and ardor. The red head cast blizzara and fira it looked like the Eidolon was getting hurt his guard was open giving the trio the moment to attack. Both attacked once more giving another opening on Bahamut, it was the chance they needed to put a stop to the rampaging Eidolon.

"Fang attack it now!" shouted the Uchiha.

The Pulsian huntress heard releasing steel guard she charged at the being releasing a powerful swing from her lance. Her eyes widened when the Eidolon blocked the attack and she could have sworn that she saw Bahamut was grinning, he countered using dragon claw and whirlwind. She got hurt badly but he wasn't finished he added umbral vise hurting her further more. Sasuke and Vanille attacked as the Uchiha charged again but he was feeling his body failing him since he has used a lot of chakra before arriving here. The Eidolon attacked with inferno and ingis hurting the both l'Cie sending them to the ground, they were almost down for the count. The rest of the group was shocked at the sight fearing the worst was yet to come the ones who experienced the Eidolon's trial knew Fang had a time limit before her life ends.

"Bloody hell I can't be down yet" the Pulsian huntress saw that her countdown only had five minutes the battle has taken longer than expected.

"Don't give up!" shouted Lightning.

"This is bad there must be something we can do" thought Naruto.

(This is Fang's trial it's her fight) Arthur reminded the blond jinchurikki.

"Vanille!" she shouted at her friend who was getting up.

"I'm okay" she casted cura on herself before healing both of them.

"I may be healed but I'm low on chakra, that fight with Raines really did a number on me" thought the Uchiha.

(Hahahahahahaha not good enough I want to hurt more!)

"Just shut up!" she ran at him even if she was losing her strength and her energy.

She performed a series of quick attacks but the Eidolon wasn't harmed, it was all countered with whirlwind and umbral vise. Sasuke and Vanille went to her aid but the Eidolon has used inferno and ingis once more, knocking them again. The female warrior groaned kneeing on one knee, panting holding her lance her time was running short by the second and the minutes. The she heard the Eidolon laughing in her head angering her even more how she wished she could shut his big mouth it was getting on her nerves. He antagonizing her enjoying the state she was in, all battered up and exhausted.

(More pain I want more pain!)

"Just shut up already!"

Bahamut grabbed her neck raising her she could barely breathe the Eidolon let her go due to Sasuke's attack. The Uchiha caught her bridal style he quickly placed her safely on the ground erasing the embarrassing moment, or the physical contact he shared with her. Fang was in the same boat right now she had an Eidolon to defeat as her countdown was only two minutes, Vanille healed the group even if she was panting too the battle was taking a toll on her too. The Eidolon started laughing again testing her patience and annoying her, she was really upset ready to go ballistics on him.

"Can't you shut up for one minute?"

(Fang of the Yun clan from the village of Oerba what a joke).

"What?" she glared at him, he was making fun of her name and title.

(You….the heiress of the Yun clan a joke indeed, you're weak not even half as a strong as a Yun clansman).

"Don't you dare go there you bastard don't even disrespect me and my clan!"

(I have watched over and guarded the Yun clan for centuries and you're no material to be considered a member of the clan, not even worthy to be an heiress).

"Shut up!" she shouted in rage.

"Fang" Vanille was startled at her sudden burst of anger.

"Whatever the Eidolon is telling her must really be pissing her off, wouldn't want to be in his shoes right now" thought Sasuke.

Bahamut didn't shut up he continued insulting her (looks like your father was right about you all along).

"Father…." her eyes widened remembering his words.

"You're a mistake…."

That was the last draw as Fang glared at him tightening her lance, she charged at him with less than a minute before the doom spell takes effect. Her speed seems to have increased her heart burning with anger for the Eidolon as she attacked him merciless and as her attacks made contact he was being hurt badly. Sasuke, Vanille and the rest of the l'Cie group were shocked, their eyes wide, the same with their mouths. It was the first time they have seen the Pulsian huntress so angry, at least to them it was a different story for Vanille. She jumped high hitting Bahamut with the tip of one of her sharp blades it was enough to send him to the ground, she was standing on top of the being her green eyes was still showing anger she pointed her lance to him.

"First lesson, never look down on me or my clan."

(You….you really are strong you just needed the right motivation).

"This is why I don't want to make her angry" thought Sasuke.

"Holy crap she's scarier than Light when she's angry" thought a highly pale Naruto.

(That will be enough) Bahamut lifted the doom spell from the Pulsian.

(I still think you're not worthy of my power but I shall lend it to you, Fang of the Yun clan I Bahamut will aid you in battle. I will appreciate if you give me things to destroy and hurt that very much pleases me).

The female warrior sweat dropped" this is going to take some getting used to."

Bahamut changed to his gestalt mode turning into a dragon like creature. Fang jumped on it riding the mighty Eidolon proving that she has tamed his power having him as her new ally. Everyone smiled that the fight was over and that the Pulsian female has taken control of her Eidolon. Sasuke grinned sheathing Masamune while Vanille healed them because they were still hurt from the fight. Bahamut changed turning into a small spear shape purple crystal, it went into Fang's brand she gave a sigh of relief happy that it was over. The rest of the group went to her.

"Look a new path!" Vanille pointed ahead.

There was now a crystalized path leading all the way to a new road.

"That wasn't there before" said Naruto.

"No kidding" replied Sasuke.

"Maybe that thing did save us" said the red head referring to Bahamut.

"I don't suppose you'd be willing to call it a sign of me being right?" said Snow.

The group remained quiet while the Uzumaki shook his head" well I think you're right Snow, I want to do what's right and follow Serah's wishes."

"Thanks buddy. But anyway let's keep our eyes on the goal and we'll figure something out!"

They started walking the path choosing the path where they will challenge their focus to destroy Cocoon. Defy it no matter what following Serah's wishes as well as Raines when it came to do the right and trust in each other. Naruto smiled turning to Lightning who gave him a small smile while giving him a playful elbow on his side the whiskered blond only grinned, used to her behavior. Everyone else seemed to be more relaxed Hope looked calm, Snow was more determined than ever and Sazh was feeling all better now that there was probably a way out of here. Vanille was also feeling better while Fang seemed to have lifted a big weight off her shoulders it felt the same way when she told Lightning the truth.

Then she remembered her previous actions she was willing to fight them in order to prevent them from misleading themselves from carrying out their focus. She did it so they didn't becoming Cie'th, she wanted to save them all from the cruel fate. Still she was right why save the same world that hates them and the same world that took everything precious to her. Turning to Sasuke who was in thought looking calmly she felt guilty for what she did to him, a smile has suddenly formed on her lips. She was happy remembering his words that held a bigger truth than anything it got her thinking leading to a possible resolve.

"You don't want us to become Cie'th we get it. You don't have to drag yourself like this just to try and protect us I understand how you feel. You hate Cocoon and it's all right to hate them after what you went through so don't be ashamed to hide that hatred. Save it with us for the sake of keeping the bonds you have forged with us, don't do this alone Fang."

"Yes save Cocoon for the sake of the bonds I have forged with them Vanille, Sasuke, Lightning Naruto everyone. I don't to lose them to this cursed brand I don't want to lose any more important people."

"Sasuke….?"

"Hn…."

"Sorry about hitting you. You were right your words have woken me up mate."

"I'm used to it by now."

She smirked at his response before elbowing him friendly" thanks….."

"It's really nothing" why he sounded nervous it was still a mystery to him.

Naruto was grinning getting closer to him" I finally get it."

"Get what?"

The blond jinchurikki showed him his pinky finger giving him the 'girlfriend' sign" she's that right…."

"Please she's nothing like that."

"But you like her" he was still smirking.

"No…."

"Your face is turning red."

"Whatever" he got annoyed and yes his face was turning red.

"Hey guys guess what Sasuke has the hot's for Fang!"

"Shut up idiot!"

Fang was the first to laugh after that she gave a small grin, Snow chuckle, Hope smiled, Vanille gave a giggle, Lightning rolled her eyes looking a bit amused and Sazh just murmured something about his younger days. They continued walking the crystalized path while Sasuke was glaring at Naruto for his comment and the Puslain huntress seem to be smiling all of the sudden, a detail which Vanille noticed giving a smile.

"Guess it's time to' face the peril of your plight' sounds splendid" said the Pulsian huntress.

"Whatever the Fal'Cie wants, we're the ones who decide what we do" replied Vanille.

As they continued walking they saw the end of the path which leads to a small rubble. But there was something else that caught their attention the red head went closer noticing it.

"Hey look at that!"

"What?" asked Sazh.

"It's an air ship….I think" Naruto didn't recognized the model type since he has never seen ships like that in Cocoon.

"It is" confirmed the afro haired pilot.

"It's a ship from Gran Pulse" said the red head.

"Not surprise to find one here" said Sasuke since the ark are originally from the lower world.

"I guess it was one of this Ark's weapons or something."

Fang walked closer spotting something above" that's a gate to Gran Pulse."

They all turned above looking at a green piece symbol the ones from Cocoon didn't recognize it but since a Pulsian confirmed it, it was obviously true.

"So what, that's our exit Pulse or burst?" asked the afro haired pilot.

"Could be one of Disley's traps" said Lightning.

"Maybe, but staying here isn't really helping us" replied the Uzumaki.

"Not like we have much of a choice" said the Uchiha.

"Well that's not good. Do you think it might take us to Eden?" asked Vanille.

"I'm doing the flying. No more these ships taking charge of our travel plans stuff. Only place this thing is taking us is where these boys tell it to" said Sazh.

"Ha really that is a Gran Pulse ship!" Fang mocked him because she thought he couldn't handle flying a Pulsian ship.

"Leave it to me!" he punched his chest too hard that he ended up coughing.

"I'm okay."

"Sazh may not look like it, but he's a skilled pilot he'll fly that ship with no problem" said the whiskered blond.

"Thanks for the boost of confidence."

"Either way, we're on borrowed time. So might as well go we'll get lucky, maybe we'll even turn up some way to get rid of these goofy tattoos" said Snow showing his brand which it has started opening into an eye.

"But there's no way to do that" said Vanille.

"You never know maybe we just didn't think to look for one" the Pulsian huntress touched her hair.

"If nothing else, we know Cocoon is safe for the time being. I'd say is worth to take a look" said Hope.

"Better than stay here" replied the blond jinchurikki.

"Maybe but what about your dad?" asked Lightning?

"I made him a promise. I promised him to keep going, and do what I had to do. He said only I would know what that was. The world's full of lies there's no way of knowing what's right. All we can do is believe in ourselves. It's easy to sit back and let people trick you. Like how the Sanctum had us all thinking that an l'Cie was some sort of monster. I'm done with their life Fal'Cie, this whole focus thing. From here on out I use my eyes, think and act. I might not make all the right choices but as long as I'm the one who decides what to do, there's nothing to regret."

Everyone smiled at him while Naruto grabbed him and started giving him noogies" what happened to you Hope you sound so mature?"

"Stop it Naruto you promised me no more noogies!"

The Uzumaki grinned letting him go leaving the teen with his hair all messed up" sure thing."

"Okay" Lightning smiled at him but it was funny to see him with his hair up.

"All right let's do it. I'm with you, bad choices and all" said Sazh putting his arm around in a friendly way.

"Of course I'm not sure how it's gonna turn out, Pulse is hell you know."

"Oh is it, how many times have you been there?" asked Fang.

"None, but I want to go, and see what's it like for myself."

"Yeah and besides you said it's easy to get trick by people well maybe you shouldn't believe everything you hear, like Pulse being hell and all. Who knows it might be a great place."

"Well I'm sticking with Naruto's refreshing attitude" said the Pulsian huntress.

"And since we're going to Pulse this is the perfect chance to check out the analects and see if what Raines said was true, about me and Sasuke having a different focus."

"Oh you're that interested in checking the analects?" asked Vanille.

"Yeah I'm curious to know about this focus, why is it so different from the original one isn't that right Sasuke?"

"Hn…."

"Okay, people!" Snow threw the crystalized tear and caught it.

"So, everybody in….?"

"Absolutely" they all replied except Lightning.

"Off to hell we go" said the pink haired soldier.

Naruto chuckle at her humor staring at the Pulsian air ship" next stop Pulse!"


To be continued

It's finally here hope you didn't wait too long. Only two more months before the release of XIII-2 I'm so excited really can't wait for the game. As always thank you for your reviews keep them coming and for putting the story in your story alerts and fav story alerts. Also please check my new story "Rise of the night hunters" if you like vampire/demon stories and rock you'll like this FFXIII AU story. I hope you enjoy the holidays I will see you all next time farewell.

P.S if you're wondering what Lightning whispered to Naruto well...use your imagination lol.

Next time: Gran Pulse