Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and FFXIII they are the rightful property of Masashi Kishimoto and square enix and I'm not making money writing this story. However I am sick of the Hope/Lightning Fang/Lightning pairing stories.
The ages of the group are so far:
Naruto-13
Sasuke-13
Lightning-13
Serah-10
Chapter 3 Earning the reward
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: Farron residence lower Bodhum region Cocoon)
Naruto and Sasuke have decided to start a new beginning in their stay at the new world of Cocoon. They will try to forget about the past in their home world and try to move on to have a better life than the one they had. A life without pain, loneliness and hatred they will try to survive and earn their freedom for a greater life. They have already meet friends well sort off they helped a girl named Serah from a couple of bullies she was really thankful, in addition with the gil they stole from them. The younger Farron was truly grateful for their help of course that's not what her older sister thought as she punched Naruto rather hard probably enough to give the blond a concussion.
Thanks to Serah's sad puppy eyes Lightning has agreed to take the two shinobi with them and live in their house, it was truly a kind gesture of the pink haired teen. The Farron's sisters home wasn't so big since it was located in the lower region of Bodhum which it's considered to be part of the city were people with low income reside. Those who were poor and didn't have enough gil to sustain for themselves usually live here. The two sisters obviously didn't had enough but they still showing their hospitality, at least that's what they thought. Their welcome wasn't going to be so pleasant while there was an over protective sister, it was all part of beginning their new life which right now it sucked big time.
The two shinobi were both on the ground of the small basement of the Farron house. Naruto was awake and he was all patch up from the injury he got by the angry Lightning he didn't blame her for punching him she thought he harmed her younger sister. He didn't hold a grudge he understood her actions everything was all right he was really grateful that she took her time to take them to her home and give them shelter. The only problem is that sleeping on a cold ground wasn't good for the back not to mention that it was impossible to have a goodnight rest. He gave a smile it wasn't so bad because the pink haired teen gave them some covers so he was grateful to her kind act now he didn't know if Sasuke felt the same way about Lightning but knowing him he wasn't in the least happy. He took the time to looked at his friend who was next to him.
"Sasuke….you awake?"
"Hn…."
"You are?" he blinked.
"What do you think it's so relaxing and comfortable to asleep here?" the Uchiha frowned annoyed and probably in a bad mood.
The blond gave a chuckle at his sarcasm" I guess this place is not the best spot to take a nap but hey at least we have a roof over our heads that's what counts."
"We are resting in the least place to take a rest we're probably sleeping with the rats too…"
"I'm sure Lightning is keeping the basement free of mouses and vermin so no worries" the blond jinchurikki smiled happily.
"How can you be so happy about this?"
"Because we have at least a place to stay and maybe we can call it home. This is the beginning of our new life in Cocoon."
"Not the best place to start our new lives…."
"Better something than nothing right beside you know we couldn't buy a house because our money problems we don't have gil?"
"This is only temporarily I'm not planning in staying here" the raven haired youth growled under his breath.
"You really don't like living here?"
"What was your first clue you saw the way she was glaring at us she's going to give us hell…."
"Lightning is a good person she agreed to let us stay at her home."
"Only because her sister gave her the sad puppy eyes and she had no choice but to agree."
The blond chuckle" which it was very effective but she's nice to Serah that goes to show you that she's really a good person at heart."
"Why do you have to be so naïve?" Sasuke was sometimes amazed at this.
"Because I know she's nice" Naruto made a smile before his cheeks flushed a little" now that I think about it she's pretty."
"I won't touch that one" the Uchiha rolled his eyes now his best friend was starting to have a crush on a girl he thinks is a real bitch.
"She is good looking I'm making a valid point."
"Hn…."
"Sasuke….?"
"Did you forget what she told us when we arrived at her house?"
"Hmm….what she told us….oh yeah I do" he gave a nervous chuckle.
The group arrived at the Farron residence while the two shinobi were staring at the house. The house itself wasn't too big but rather too small, it was enough to hold two people so it made them think. It also showed the conditions that lower Bodhum houses had it was definitely not the kind of household someone with money will be staying at. It didn't them a home is a home at least they meet kind people to take in strangers the last part Sasuke made a check remembering how Lightning agreed to take them to her home, it was all thanks to her little sister. He had a bad feeling or maybe it was just his imagination the blond shinobi didn't looked like he felt it so maybe he was really imagining things.
Lightning hasn't taken her eyes off the two guests or more precise the strangers right now she only knew two things about them. Their names and that they saved her sister from the bullies that act show they were good person but she didn't trusted them as much as she could put her foot down. Having two boys her age with herself and her younger sister wasn't a good idea the thoughts running through her head were endless. Among them was the possibility that they were a bunch of perverts, she looked at them from the corner of her eye with a killing intention. She wasn't going to let them do any inappropriate things to her and most importantly to Serah.
She gazed at the younger Farron who was smiling happily more than usual she has never seen her this happy before, not ever since their parents died. She would do anything to keep her happy that smile on her face was enough to get her through the toughest situations in their new way of life or more precise their new tragic way of life. She erased the thought now it wasn't the time to be thinking about the past she needed to be strong for Serah giving one last glance at the two shinobi she took her key from her neck wearing it like a necklace and open the front door. She opened the door letting her sister enter first followed by her pests or guests she chose to go with the first choice.
The two shinobi stood staring at the inside of the house it was smaller than outside what else would they expect from a house made for two people or less. Unlike the high tech building they saw when they first arrived to Cocoon the house was a little primitive compare to the appearances of the buildings or the city of Bodhum in general. They didn't said a word and it was enough for them to have a place to spend the night suddenly Serah came to Naruto with a package of ban aids she quickly lead the blond jinchurikki to the small dinner table making him seat. She smiled as she happily put the band aid on his broken lip while the blond just smiled at her dedication. Lightning just stood not too far from them while Sasuke was closer to the blond than the pink haired teen her expression was neutral.
"There we go Naruto it's all better now just wait until it gets heal so don't you dare pull it away before it does."
"Thanks nurse Farron I will make sure to listen to you" he gave his fox grin.
She giggled at his comment" I want to be a teacher when I grow up but thanks for calling me nurse."
"That's great you will make a fine teacher Serah I just know it."
"Hmph…." Lightning watched her sister smiling with the blond like she has knowing her entire life her neutral expression hasn't changed.
"Lightning don't you have anything to say to Naruto?" the younger Farron stared at her older sister with arms crossed over her chest.
The older Farron rolled her eyes crossing her arms like she usually do but she didn't replied.
"Sis" Serah waited with a pout on her face for her to apologize to the blond for the punch she gave him.
"S….sorry" she mumbled.
"Huh what?" Naruto obviously didn't hear her.
"Say it so he can hear you" Sasuke said while she glared at him.
"Sis please apologize to Naruto."
"Apologize?" the whiskered blond just smile" its okay Serah she doesn't have to apologize to me."
"What?" Lightning was really shocked.
"But Naruto I think she should after what you and Sasuke did for me" replied Serah.
"Nah I don't blame her she thought I put you through any harm she was just worry sick about you."
"But you didn't you and Sasuke saved me" the younger Farron this time because the blond was being too stubborn when it comes to receive an apology.
Sasuke thought he was being a goody goody and didn't want Lightning to feel awkward in the situation. There was a lot of time he thought the blond was being too kind for his own good or maybe too stupid for his own good whatever it was it didn't felt right for him to make the older Farron see that she didn't needed to apologize to him for her mistake.
Lightning didn't know what to think Serah was right she needed to apologize to the blond for mistaking him for being one of the bullies. He was one of the people who helped her she should be thanking him and Sasuke but his sudden response really caught her by surprise. Naruto didn't want her forgiveness why maybe he didn't needed or it wasn't necessary. After the punch she gave him her sub conscious shouted to her that she should apologize to him because it was the right thing to do. She didn't realized that she has meet eyes with Naruto and it felt like time stopped and just like that it was over. The blond jinchurikki gave her a goofy smile while she frowned she already saw him as immature and annoying.
"Serah it's late time for bed."
"Okay night Naruto and Sasuke."
"Nighty night Serah" Naruto smiled while the Uchiha just gave a nod.
"Don't take off the band aid" she gave a playful smile.
"Don't worry I won't nurse Farron."
She giggled leaving with her older sister obviously they headed for her room. It didn't took that long for Lightning to returned from tucking her younger sister to bed and returned to the small living room where the two shinobi were that's when things changed.
Naruto and Sasuke felt the tension rise as a powerful force entered the house it was coming from the pink haired teen. She glared at them like she was ready to go for the kill and show them no mercy if looks could kill they would already be in their graves. One minute she was calm and didn't show hostility but once Serah was gone she was a complete different person. Having two boys here in her own home wasn't acceptable she saw those things that deserve to get thrown into the trash even if both didn't had any parents and they shared some pain to her and her sister that was still no excuse for them to be here.
Both shinobi were actually scared at her terrifying gaze well at least Naruto he was pale as a ghost Sasuke looked calm without showing any emotion but on the inside he was a bit scared. None didn't felt intimidated by her they have never such a cold glare that shown a lot of anger not even Orochimaru or Itachi could compared to the older Farron.
The whiskered blond took a step back from his fear" what's wrong Lightning….?"
"Listen up good" her tone was so cold it sounded like she could freeze anything with her voice" I will set the rules and you two better obey them or else…."
"Or else what?" asked Sasuke.
"I'll kick you out simple as that…"
"It's okay Lightning we don't want that we'll do anything you say" replied Naruto while the Uchiha frowned at his comment.
"Good if you want to continue living under this roof then you will obey the rules. First you will have to pull your weight in this household whether you like it or not you will do the list of chores I give you and you better not complain about it. Second you two will find jobs in order to provide for this house."
"Roger we'll get jobs" said the blond shinobi.
"Third if you want food to be served to you, you'll have to earn it through sweat and tears."
"Um….we have to sweat and cry to earn the food?"
"She means we have to work hard to earn it idiot" Sasuke sweat dropped at his comment.
The pink haired teen had vein popped on her forehead annoyed at the blonds comment she scoffed before leaving still not believing that strangers were going to be living right under her home. Maybe it was all just a bad dream and when she wakes up the next day they won't be here but that will be too good to be true.
"Wait Lightning!" Naruto stopped her in her tracks.
"What?" she was still annoyed at his last comment.
The blond jinchurikki gave a silly grin" where are we going to sleep….?"
The pink haired teen raised an eyebrow at him she thought it will be so obvious judging by her character. Both shinobi had a bad feeling just by looking at her face or maybe they were imagining things.
And so here they were.
"She's going to work us till we bleed to death" said Sasuke.
"We have to help her and Serah with keeping their house it's the right thing to do."
"You're acting too much of a goody goody it's getting on my nerves."
"Lightning has taken her time to let us live in her home there's nothing wrong with us helping her with the chores and the money in return."
"You're not listening to me the only reason she agreed to take us in it's because of her sister not because she wanted to."
"So what's your point?"
"My point Naruto is that she doesn't want us in her home the only thing she really wants to do with us is kick us out."
"It's true Serah begged her but Lightning is like that because she doesn't trust us. I'm sure if she let us in she will start trusting us and maybe she will want us to stay."
"Sometimes being naïve is very harmful for the soul."
"What's that supposed to mean?" asked the blond jinchurikki looking at the Uchiha.
"Never mind" he finally got into a resting position facing the opposite side hoping that he will finally go to sleep.
Naruto frowned as he also went to get some rest" he's wrong Lightning is a good person I just know it we have to show her that we're people she can trust, that will be easy…."
If he only knew how wrong he was he will eventually find out the hard way.
(Time skip the next day)
"Wake up"
Lightning stood in front of the two sleeping shinobi she didn't even raised her voice because she wasn't even trying to wake them up. She only waited a minute once she realized they weren't waking up she went with plan B as she took a bucket next to her which it was filled with water. She threw the water at the two teens and she waited for their reactions of course she knew they were going to wake up because the water was ice cold, enough to wake up the death.
"AAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
"GODDAMN IT!"
The two shinobi woke up in screaming agony as they felt the ice cold water hit their bodies. Both were shivering before they realized what happened staring at the pink haired teen in front of them. Lightning was wearing a long sleeve closed black blouse with long hazel pants and sealed brown heels her appearances made her looked attractive it only showed to Naruto how beautiful she is. Even if he was shivering from the cold he had to blush she really looked nice in her current clothing he was caught frozen staring at her. Sasuke wasn't happy shivering he looked at the bucket the older Farron was holding that was enough clue to figure out that she was the one that gave them a cold shower.
"Brrrr cold so cold brrrrr….." the blond jinchurikki was still shivering.
"Time for your chores" Lightning gave them two long lists.
Naruto nodded taking his list" no problem….brrrrr."
"You could have woken us without the cold water" Sasuke was glaring at her.
"I felt like it now do your chores quietly Serah is still sleeping."
"Sleeping this late?" asked the blond.
"Not late it's five in the morning."
"What?" both shinobi shouted before Lightning smacked them both silly.
"Quiet now once you're done with your chores find some jobs because if you don't before this day is over then you're out of the house."
"You woke us at five in the morning to do chores?" the Uchiha was really ticked off.
"Problem?" Lightning meet his gaze her expression clearly showed she was upset.
"Yeah I-"
"Sasuke buddy calm down all right let's do as she says" Naruto hold the raven haired teen from saying something that he might regret later.
"Like I said complaints will only get you kick out" Lightning crossed her arms.
"Getting kick out doesn't seem like a bad idea" thought the upset Sasuke.
"Sure thing Lightning leave it to us we'll do our chores and find some jobs believe it!"
"Make sure you do" she turned to leave.
"Why are you dressed like that?" the whiskered blond got curious and her nice clothing.
""Off to work…."
"This early?" he was surprised.
"I need the money hurry up and get moving" she finally left.
The Uchiha glared at his blond friend still shivering" still think she's a good person….?"
"Well-"
"Don't answer that!"
(Scene change)
The two shinobi started doing the chores according to the ones in their list done by Lightning. Naruto sweep the floor and clean the furniture with a clean piece of cloth, he also had to mop the floor. He used the shadow clone jutsu to speed things of course doing in it as quiet as he could he didn't wanted to wake Serah up. Sasuke wash the kitchen, did the laundry while doing the dishes both shinobi agreed to wash the bathroom some of the blonds clones gave him the hand. Doing the chores quickly they eventually finish all of them the credit had to go to Naruto's shadow clones they made the job easier. The blond jinchurikki smiled seeing the house cleaner and better no doubt Lightning will be please when she arrives but things weren't as happy as he thought.
Sasuke wasn't a happy camper he didn't like doing the chores especially when you have awoken by a cold shower at five in the morning. He had a feeling this was just the beginning and the older Farron won't show any mercy to them might as well use them like cleaning tools as long as they were staying at her house. Their new beginning in Cocoon was turning into a living nightmare living under the same roof as Lightning he made a mental note to save some gil from when he finds a job and buy a home. To him the sooner he left the Farron house the better he sighed at least he was done with the chores for today he had an idea they will do this the next day and the day after that.
(Time skip)
When they were done they were about to leave the house but something stopped them in their tracks. Their stomachs growled like a wild animal obviously hunger has kicked in they haven't eaten anything since arriving in this new world. Naruto was thinking of a hot bowl of ramen reminding himself that he wasn't in his world so going to Ichiraku's was out of the question he hoped that the ramen in Cocoon was better or at least good he felt like eating a hundred bowls. He hasn't eaten one since he left the village for the retrieval mission he tried not to think about his friends from his world and focus on his hunger. Sasuke was in the same boat what would he do for a dish of his favorite food or with his current hunger he will eat anything unlike the blond shinobi who was craving for ramen.
The sun has risen and they knew that Serah must have woken up by now so they needed to use the kitchen. Time was not on their side they had until today for finding a job or Lightning will kick them out but for the raven haired shinobi he felt like it was worth it because it will save them from any incoming hell place on them by the pink haired teen. For now it will have to wait until they earn enough gil to buy a place of their own. Staying with the Farrons was recommendable for now at least not all of them acted like a bitch, the younger Farron were a lot nicer and kind than her older sister. He has never been this hungry before in his entire life thinking about food was out of the question his stomach growled making him mumble something inaudible.
Serah finally came to the living room on her way to the kitchen the two shinobi were staring at her. The young pink haired girl was wearing her pajamas with it pink reaching all the way to her ankles and yellow chocobo sandals. She gave a yawn she probably woke up now making them envy her at least she had a goodnight sleep and she wasn't woken by ice cold water they could still feel the chills from it. Which reminded them that they were still feeling sleeping it was to be expected if you had to sleep on a cold ground without a pillow and a mere blanket.
The younger Farron smiled at her guests" morning!"
"Morning Serah" Naruto gave his fox grin but it wasn't his usual cheery tone.
"Morning Sasuke!"
"Hn…."
"What's wrong?" she obviously picked up that something was up with the two teens.
"We're fine" the blond jinchurikki was truly being a terrible liar.
"Hungry sleepy" thought the Uchiha.
Serah had to bit her lip having a clue" is my sister being hard on you guys?"
"No it's not Lightning!" Naruto immediately replied.
"I know she's a bit strict but she's really a good person, she doesn't like relying on others."
"Of course we know she's a good person I knew it all along."
"More like a coldhearted bitch from hell" sweat dropped the Uchiha.
"You guys must be hungry how about some breakfast?"
"Yes!" both shinobi shouted startling the younger Farron.
She giggled at their reaction" someone's a little hungry all right."
"Serah what's with those sandals?" Naruto was staring at her yellow bird shoes.
The pink haired girl gave a pout" do you have a problem with my chocobo sandals?"
"Chocobo….?" Blink the blond jinchurikki.
"They are very cute and friendly bird creatures, in Cocoon there's a Chocobo ranch in the city of Nautilus."
"There are so many things to see in this world Chocobo's are one of those things" the whiskered blond gave a smile.
It only took Serah fifteen minutes to prepared breakfast she made an omelet with small pieces of bacon in it the smell filled the kitchen all the way to the table they were waiting for the food. The aroma hit their nose thrills making their mouth watered and their stomachs roar it truly smelled wonderful. The younger Farron came to the table wearing a yellow apron bringing their plates at the two hungry teens. Her eyes widened as the two hungry teens started eating like their lives depended on it she was surprised but it proved how hungry they were. Soon they were done with the meal both were pleased and satisfied the food has hit the spot.
"That's much better" the blond smiled widely while Sasuke nodded with a small smile.
"I'm glad you like it" Serah smiled.
"This omelet was delicious you really outdone yourself Serah!"
The younger Farron blushed at the compliment" thank you Naruto…."
"How did you cook something so good I must know?" the blond got eager to know the secret behind her cooking.
"It was my sister she taught me to cook."
"Lightning taught you?" he blinked.
"She did….?" asked the stunned Sasuke.
The young pink haired girl nodded" she can cook better than me and I followed in her footsteps. Every day she will teach the steps to cook all kinds of dishes it took me a while to learn it but practice makes perfect."
Naruto smiled softly he has never doubt it that the older Farron was a good person. When it came down to it she was caring especially to her younger sister but it bothered him why she the two sister we're alone with no parents. But having a friend who lost his entire family to his own brother he had a bad feeling about this that maybe it wasn't right to ask. Another thought that came to his head that they were orphans like him and never knew their parents if that was true then he will understand them perfectly. He somehow felt closer to the sisters' maybe that was the reason why he was determined to help them, besides them letting him and Sasuke live in their house.
"She's great isn't she?" the blond smiled.
"She's the best sister in the whole wide world" replied the young Farron.
The whiskered jinchurikki nodded he agreed with her" Serah….what happened with you and Lightning?"
"Huh….what do you mean?"
He got nervous afraid to ask the question" what I mean is where your folks are?"
The girl's blue eyes softened feeling like she was going to cry and Naruto cursed mentally knowing he has made a mistake. It was a delicate personal topic and he has screw up big time he should have kept his mouth shut.
"I'm sorry Serah I didn't mean to ask that…."
"It's okay Naruto you guys should know."
"You don't have to tell us if you don't feel like it…."
"We're not obligating you" said the Uchiha.
"I want to I trust you" her expression softened" we're on our own….our parents are gone."
"They died….?" Sasuke was shocked.
She nodded" our father was hard working always worrying about us he will do anything for us. He was involved in an accident that leads to his death. We were devastated but we decided to stay strong mother was positive and she was smiling telling us that everything was going to be all right. Lightning kept on smiling but it wasn't the same anymore."
The two shinobi saw her in tears as she continued telling the story" after our father died our mother was taken by an illness before the doctors were able to cure her….she was gone."
None said a word but they were probably feeling heartbroken at Serah's tragic story of how she and Lightning's parents died. Sasuke was feeling the same pain because he lost his parents remembering the cruel and horrible Uchiha massacre at the hands of his older brother Itachi. He understood her perfectly it was the same pain he stood quiet not knowing what to say. Naruto has lowered his gaze feeling all kinds of emotions for the younger Farron pity, sorrow, remorse it was too cruel for the two sisters to experience something like this. None of them deserved something like that to lose their parents leaving them to survive on their own. Now he felt more determine to help them get through this and give them the best life they deserve it was no wonder why Lightning was doing everything she could do to keep Serah happy.
The young Farron was still in tears" after mom died my sister changed she became someone different with one goal in her mind to take care of me and help us get through our parents death…."
"Serah is very important to her because she's the only family she has left….Lightning" Naruto's eyes softened thinking about the older Farron.
"The older sister taking care of her little sister" Sasuke thought of Itachi how he used to be in the past with always taking care of him.
The blond jinchurikki went to where the tissues were and picked a couple he walked to teary girl" now that's enough Serah don't cry, we don't want to ruin that pretty face of yours right?"
"Thanks Naruto. Please don't get angry with my sister I know she can be mean but she doesn't mean it she's only trying to give us a new better way to live" she smiled drying her tears with the tissue.
"She doesn't deserve to do this on her own I promised you Serah I'll help her with anything."
"We will support you" Sasuke followed.
The young Farron nodded with a small blush" thank you Sasuke…."
"Just leave everything to us we will help it's our way for letting us stay here believe it!"
She nodded" thank you both of you."
"We should get going we don't want to waste more time" replied the Uchiha knowing that they still had one more thing to do.
"Yeah we have to find jobs to help Lightning with the bills."
"You're not going to go look for a job wearing that are you?" Serah pointed out at their clothing.
The two shinobi realized what she was talking about their clothing wasn't in the best shape. Naruto's orange jumpsuit was dirty and shredded due to his fight with Sasuke at the Valley of the End. He was still wearing his leaf headband which it was also dirty along with his blue sandals. Sasuke's clothing was also dirty including that his blue shirt with his clan symbol had two large holes on the back because of his level two curse seal transformation. True indeed both weren't wearing appropriate clothing to look for jobs the people won't take them seriously and they won't even bother to give them the job opportunity. New choice of clothing was recommended and it was also a chance for them to start over in their new lives with new clothes nothing that reminded them who they are.
Naruto gave a silly smile" right time to go shopping first…."
"We can use the gil we took from those kids who bullied Serah" said Sasuke.
"Yeah we'll use the bully money you took from them" the blond gave a naughty grin making the young Farron giggled.
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: B and W outfitters upper region Bodhum)
Naruto emerged from his changing room wearing something different and new. He gazed at the mirror in front of him. An orange jacket which was zipped open with a white shirt, green cargo pants with black sneakers the green necklace given by Tsunade was hanging loosely in perfect view. His eyes softened as he took the piece of valuable jewelry inside of his shirt to prevent its view to the public the only thing he was wearing from his life as a shinobi was his hidden leaf headband. He touched it his fingers trailing the metal piece where the leaf symbol of Konoha was crafted proudly he knew his days as a shinobi of the leaf were over because he and Sasuke decided to have a brand new start.
He removed it staring at it" a new life….a new beginning this isn't part of it."
It felt like he was saying goodbye to the Naruto Uzumaki from Konoha the boy who had a dream of becoming Hokage and gain the respect from the people of the village. As long as he was in this world that boy didn't existed anymore just like Sasuke he wasn't the avenger destined to take revenge on the man who killed his clan. Both has vowed to live here and start their new lives there was no turning back once he made up his mind. Once he was done with his clothing and additional pieces he chose to buy he went to another changing room.
"Hey Sasuke you're done?" he knocked on the door.
"Hn…."
The blond jinchurikki took it as a yes" well come out already so we can pay for the clothes, we have job hunting to do."
The door opened revealing a newly clothed Sasuke. He was wearing a black trench coat with a blue shirt grey button pants with black combat boots. The blond jinchurikki stood staring at him before blinking he didn't know what to think this type of clothes was completely different for the Uchiha especially when none of the clothes had his clan symbol, he also noticed that like him he wasn't wearing his leaf head band both have really moved on. In truth he was happy for the teen to finally let go of the path of revenge he knew nothing good will come from it. Like he has said this experience was for the better and for the worst when it comes to never seeing his friends from Konoha again.
The whiskered blond gave a thoughtful expression ready to give his opinion on his new choice of clothing" hmm….you look more emo it fits you well."
"Shut up and you look more of an idiot always picking orange" he glared daggers at the blond.
"Can't help it if I like orange."
"It's a stupid color."
"Stick and stones Sasuke."
They left the changing room taking their bags to the counter where they give the necessary amount of gil to pay for all the clothing. They left relief that was one problem out of the way now all they needed to do is get jobs before Lightning arrives she looked like the kind of person who will have their heads on a platter if they don't do what she says. Leaving the store Naruto was smiling happily checking his clothes and the ones he bought thinking that a certain pink haired teen would like it he blushed slightly getting lost in his little world.
"What's with you?" Sasuke obviously saw his day dreaming expression.
"It's nothing just glad that we have new clothes what about you?"
"Whatever…."
"You're no fun."
"Getting new clothes it's not my idea of fun…."
"So you would prefer to have your old dirty shredded clothes back?"
"Naruto?" his tone was serious making the blond stopped in his tracks.
"What?"
"About what you told me about Pulse and the l'Cie….?"
The jinchurikki gasped looking at the people passing by" quiet Sasuke we're not supposed to be talking about that."
"I think it will be for the best if we don't do any jutsu while we're here."
"Why….?"
"Think about it if people see us using jutsu they might think we're from Pulse."
Naruto was in thought" you mean that we could be l'Cie?"
The Uchiha nodded" let's keep it hidden."
"I guess we don't want to get in trouble when we're beginning to live in this world, no jutsu then."
"No jutsu…."
"That also means no sharingan."
"I know…."
"Now that that's out of the way where should we start looking?" asked Naruto.
"Let's return to Lightning's home first and leave our bags."
"Right can't go job hunting carrying these bags."
(Scene change time skip)
The two shinobi were staring at a place that they chose to be their first spot to find a job. Well it was Naruto who suggested that they should try this place first and so far he wasn't impressed at all. They could have start with something a little more decent than this even in their world at their age they would be considered adult and they could be accepted in any type of job adults will admit in this world they probably had their chances cut in half. People their age would get crummy jobs with a dead beat salary that wouldn't be enough to pay any bills for a house or a decent meal he knew that he gained more from doing missions back at Konoha.
"Cocoon maintenance center…."
He gazed at the blond giving a small sigh" this is it….?"
"Yep…."
"You want us to work as garbage boys?"
"It's clean up boys" corrected the whiskered blond.
"It's the same thing."
"What's your problem?"
"This will feel like we're doing D rank missions all over again" said the annoyed Uchiha remembering all the crappy missions they did as team seven.
"Good for you Sasuke you remember old times but the best of this is we won't have to chase that stupid cat Tora."
"You have a point…."
"A job is a job and money is money we need the gil to help Lightning let's go already."
The raven haired youth sighed again before he followed the blond inside the building. They looked around place there were different rooms with people working on recycling the garbage and most of the workers were young teenagers around their age it really surprised them to have a great number of teens as employees. They reached the counter desk meeting an older man in his middle fifties he was talking on his mobile phone the device really got the two shinobi's attention it looked the communicators they used back at their home but it looked more advance. Once he saw the two teens in front of his desk he ended the call and turned to them greeting them with a smile.
"Good afternoon welcome to Cocoon maintenance center how can I be of service?"
"I hope you can help us me and my buddy here would like to know if you're hiring anyone for the position of clean up boys."
Sasuke sweat dropped but forced a smile at the receptionist" I'm going to regret this…."
"We do have quite the employees under the position but the more the merrier. You see we have a motto that together we can do anything remember that a clean Cocoon is a happy Cocoon."
"You mean you will take us?" smiled the blond jinchurikki.
The receptionist nodded taking two pieces of papers from his desk" all you have to do is fill these forms and you'll join the cleanup crew team."
"All right clean up team!" shouted the happy Naruto while the Uchiha sweat dropped at his enthusiasm.
The man laughed" I like your attitude, no doubt you will fit in with the team."
"So how many teams are they?" asked the blond taking the sheet of paper along with Sasuke.
"There are a total of twenty teams of our cleanup crew. The Fal'Cie keeps Cocoon protected and filled with all the things necessary for our survival but they don't clean the trash left behind by the people and that's why it's up to us to clean the mess. It's our duty to keep Cocoon clean and pure."
"We'll get pay right….?" asked Sasuke feeling like this job was volunteering and they weren't getting any pay.
"Of course you will get pay depending on how many trash bags your team fills. Each bag will be worth a hundred gil so the more bags you fill the more you will earn."
"All right" the Uchiha was pleased with the information.
"That's great!"
"Also we will give a bonus prize to the winning team that fills the most trash bags weekly."
"Winning team?" Naruto smiled.
"A contest….?" Sasuke was now interested at the job.
"That's is correct the best of this job you will have fun while earning money and keeping Cocoon clean, everyone wins."
The two shinobi were now very eager as they finished filled their personal information of course they didn't added that they from another dimension in the hidden leaf village. Just their name, age, weight, height among other information they really wanted to begin their new job even Sasuke was eager because of the little competition they will have against the other teams it was exactly what he needed. The job wasn't going to be so bad after all they have already found the perfect job to get the money in order to help Lightning with the bills of her home.
Naruto smiled as he finished filling his form" with this job I will help Serah and Lightning."
"Those teams won't stand a chance" Sasuke gave a mental grin.
They returned the form to the receptionist as he smiled" let me be the first to welcome you to the Cocoon maintenance center as part of our cleanup crew."
"When do we start?" asked the eager blond jinchurikki.
"Right now I will give you a brief tour of our facility."
"Thanks!" he looked at the Uchiha" nice job right?"
"Hn…."
"Oh I almost forgot" the receptionist took a box from underneath his desk" while you're working with your team you have to wear these."
The two teens sweat dropped at the sight there were two pink t shirts with a picture of a green Chocobo and he words Cocoon cleanup crew colored in white. They stood frozen for a moment the shirts weren't kind of appropriate for them mainly because it was colored pink they looked more like shirts girl would wear like Serah but definitely not Lightning.
Sasuke frowned at the sight" you can't be serious?"
"This shirt is part of your uniform and who you are as long as you're working with us. The Chocobo is called Mero he's our official mascot and his color green refers to the green of the vegetation we also have to keep the forests of Cocoon clean like the Sunleth Waterscape and to never have cities become like the Hanging Edge."
"It doesn't look that bad the Chocobo is kind of cute" Naruto smiled only to get hit on his arm courtesy of Sasuke.
"That's the spirit please put your shirts on before going with the tour."
(Time skip)
The receptionist has given the two shinobi a complete tour of the building which it wasn't so bad. There were different rooms where to go the ones they like were those where members of the cleanup crew relax or take a bit for lunch they even had a recreational room where they could play all kinds of games. The job wasn't bad the only thing that was disturbing was probably the girly pink shirt they had to wear not everyone didn't like Naruto was starting to become fond of it, Sasuke was another story.
"I hope you've enjoyed the tour."
"You bet this place is great" said the blond jinchurikki.
"Hn…."
"Now it's time for you to meet the team you'll be working they are at the main hall follow me."
They entered an automatic double door where were four teen boys seated in a long style couch. One of them looked to be in the same age as the two shinobi he had shoulder length blond hair, blue eyes wearing a black button shirt with black pants and a black leather boots. Another looked to be in the same age as the blond but he had a red and yellow Mohawk with dark eyes wearing a blue jacket with a brown shirt and brown boots. The third one looking a few years younger than the last two had blue hair and blue eyes wearing a red buttoned shirt with grey cargo pants and black boots. The final one was younger than the rest with messy blond hair, green eyes wearing a white shirt with brown shorts and white boots.
"Everyone I want you to meet your new team members."
"Hey how is it going I'm Naruto Uzumaki!"
"Didn't know we had more people joining our team" asked the teen with the Mohawk.
"The more the merrier" the older blond went to whiskered blond" nice to meet you I'm Snow Villiers."
"Nice to see you this is my friend Sasuke."
"Hey…."
"Great we like to have more people joining us let me introduce you to the gang, this is Gadot, that's Yuj and the little one is Maqui."
He pointed to the different people according to their names and each waved them happily to have them. Naruto smiled at them he had a feeling they will become good friends of his while Sasuke only nodded greeting them in his own way although he wasn't as enthusiastic as the blond jinchurikki.
"Now everyone it's time to begin today's duties there's a vast collection of garbage at Forlen Avenue at upper Bodhum. As always if you can pass your quota you will be one step ahead as the other teams."
"That prize is as good as ours" Gadot said.
"With more members we have the advantage" said Maqui.
"All right let's do this it's time for us the heroes to clean up Cocoon!" Snow raised his fist.
"Hold on just a minute none of you are wearing your official cleanup crew shirts" the receptionist gave them a stern expression.
Everyone sighed while Yuj frowned" come on those shirts are girly I don't like pink."
"Now Yuj I would like for you to behave yourselves you all agreed to follow the rules and wearing the shirt is part of them. Besides remember that wearing the Nero shirt is proof that you're members of this fine organization don't forget our motto."
"A clean Cocoon is a happy Cocoon we know" they replied in unison.
"Now I suggest you wear your shirts before heading to your next destination good luck."
(Scene change)
The place where Naruto and Sasuke's will start their first job was a bit messy but with the rest of the team it was pretty easy. Everyone did their part as a team while they were getting to know each other better soon they were getting along becoming friends. Naruto and Snow clicked perfectly it's like both teens were the same pretty much in personality while the others from his group have already taken a liking towards the blond jinchurikki. Before he knew it they have become close friends even if they have just met today. As for Sasuke he didn't had a problem getting along with them he just stood quiet and did his job he will talk whenever he needed to he wasn't much of talker like his blond friend.
Snow got along well with the two shinobi and accepted them as part of the group he already saw them as part of his crew. The rest didn't had a problem with them Gadot, Yuj and Maqui were easy going with the two some had it a little tough that the Uchiha wasn't much of a talker they didn't know if he was ignoring them listening to them whenever they will say a word to him. When they were done they managed to filled five trash bags so it was going to be five hundred gil which it was enough to sustain Lightning and her home along with her share from her own job. After they were done they returned to the center and bid their farewell to both of them it was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
(Scene change)
"What do you think of our job Sasuke?" asked the happy blond holding a bag with the gil he won.
"It's not so bad…."
The whiskered blond grinned" when we were told that we'll be competing against other teams you didn't complaint."
"We can do this job in no time just the two of us is enough."
"Maybe but having Snow and his gang helping us is good enough we won enough gil to help Lightning this is what I wanted in the first place."
"Hn…."
"See Sasuke we started bad but now we're doing well with this job we'll be staying in her home now."
"You're that determined to help her….?"
"Come on you know we have to after what Serah told us about their parents. No one deserves to live all alone when they have lost their parents."
The Uchiha nodded resuming his walking thinking about the younger Farron's story losing one's parents it reminded him of the horrible his clan was massacred. He understood that pain so well what he had to endure after losing them and the hatred he harbored for his brother taking care of your own wasn't easy he knew that well. Now he had the chance to help someone in need who was sharing the same pain he may not looked as determined as his blond friend but he really wanted to help the older Farron in taking care of her only family.
Naruto smiled as he decided to put his new earned gil taking his toad wallet which it was empty because he has thrown away all the ryou. The type of money was completely useless in this world and now he was going to be storing gil in it. He stopped on his tracks as he stood staring at the wallet with wide eyes a thought has struck him before he realized something he has completely forgotten still holding the wallet.
"Toad….toad that's it I can't believe I forgot about it!"
"What's wrong?" Sasuke looked at him wondering why he stopped all of the sudden.
"It's nothing" he quickly replied before resuming his walking.
(Scene change time skip)
The two shinobi returned to the Farron sister's home and they saw the most wonderful sight ever. Serah was cooking wearing her usual yellow apron and just by the smell of it, it was going to be another great meal. Breakfast was truly delicious and they wanted to taste more especially when they were hungry and their stomachs were screaming in fury for some food. When they went to the table to wait for the meal they didn't expected to see Lightning sitting she has arrived from work she was also waiting for her younger sister to serve the meal. Her icy blue eyes fell on the two shinobi showing her usual serious expression they knew the first thing she was going to say.
"Lightning how was work?" asked Naruto.
"Find a job?" she ignored his question.
"We sure did and we already made a nice pay" he replied while Sasuke nodded.
"How much….?"
"Five hundred gil each!"
She nodded in approval" we will discuss payment share later."
Serah came to the table with the food the sight was enough to make them drool they really needed this because they eat since this morning. They wanted to chow down and since they know how good the younger Farron's cooking is and satisfying to fill their stomachs.
"Here it is let's dig in!" smiled Serah.
"Hold it" Lightning was staring at the two shinobi.
"What's wrong?" gulped the blond because the way she was staring at him.
The older Farron stared at them with her business expression before she softened her eyes a little" sit down we're eating together."
They smiled taking their seats while the happy Serah placed their dishes with the food. She first served her sister before going to their guests.
Naruto smiled at the pink haired teen" thanks Lightning we're really hungry."
"You bring money to the table you will be rewarded with food and you will continue to live under this roof."
The happy blond nodded" so what's your job?"
"Librarian assistant…."
"Oh you work in the library that's cool" he sweat dropped of all the places for her to work she has to work in the least place he will go.
"And you?" Lightning didn't know why she wanted to know because it wasn't in her interest to know, but then again she did answer the whiskered blond about her job in the library.
"We're part of the cleanup crew to keep Cocoon clean and pure!"
"Garbage boys….?" The older Farron raised an eyebrow at their job.
"It's cleanup crew" corrected Naruto.
"Same thing…."
They ended the conversation resuming their eating it became very quiet at the table. Naruto loved the food it tasted wonderful his hunger will be satisfied but there were other things on his mind. Serah's story came back remembering how the Farron sisters lost their parents and they were left to live in this world alone how much they have to endure and struggle to continue. His cerulean eyes were on Lightning how much pain she has gone through taking the responsibility to take care of her little sister it wasn't fair that she has to do it on her own no matter if she was really strong. None of them deserve this they needed help he and Sasuke were probably the only ones who could give them the hand they needed.
"Lightning?" he gazed at her but she didn't pay attention to him she was only focusing on her eating.
"Serah told me about your parents."
That was enough for the older Farron to gaze at him with wide eyes at the shock she soon followed to look at her younger sister. Serah lowered her head not wanting to stare at her sister's glare she will get scold for saying a word about their parents when she wasn't supposed to say anything about the reason they were now orphans. The pink haired teen didn't understood why her sister will tell them they were still strangers in her eyes it only proved how trusting the young Farron is. But then again she has become fond of Naruto she still didn't know about Sasuke the Uchiha was quiet eating although he thought it wasn't right for the whiskered blond to bring the personal painful topic.
"I'm sorry sis" Serah still had her head down.
"You already told them no need to apologize now."
"I can't tell how much you two must be going through or the pain you're feeling, I never knew my parents. But I promise you I will do everything in my power to help you get through" said Naruto.
"I know what it's like to lose your parents I'll help too" replied Sasuke.
"Yeah we'll do it together. I don't care if I have to find ten jobs you guys will have a better life like getting a new house."
"That's out of the question" replied the older Farron taking a bite from her plate knowing they will need quite the amount of gil to afford a good home.
"I don't care how long it will take I will help you get that perfect house."
She stared at him again and this time his eyes have changed. They were filled with so much determination like a fire burning brightly for a moment she thought he could do it. But reality kicked back in there were just words that were all comforting words to make anyone feel better but they were still words. She swallowed her food before meeting his eyes he was truly foolish to try and help them thinking about them instead of himself was he trying to get her trust.
"Tch you're such an idiot."
Sasuke gave a small smile" she has you there Naruto."
The blond shinobi gave a silly grin before resuming his eating and Serah giggle at her sister's comment because her tone wasn't cold but more like she was kidding. The young Farron smiled it felt like they were already fitting in with them and they were acting like a family the word was in her head before she took another bite from her dish. This was really the beginning of how they will become close in the future because it wasn't the same before the two shinobi arrived to their home.
(Time skip evening)
Naruto has left the basement not because he wasn't feeling sleepy but because there was something he needed to do. It's been on his mind since he and Sasuke left the maintenance center when he stared at his toad wallet something he has actually forgot. He was holding an envelope with a letter inside he knew he was doing the right thing if they were going to live in Cocoon for good he sighed before he bit his thumb making a small trace of blood to appear making the right hand seals he didn't know if it will be effective in this world.
"I sure hope this works…."
"Summoning jutsu!"
POOF!
As the smoke clear a small orange toad appeared wearing a dark blue jacket he blinked looking around the place he has been summoned not having a clue where he was. Until a familiar face it was a face he never thought he ever see his lit up happy to see the blond jinchurikki.
"Naruto!"
The blond covered his head not wanting to wake up everyone sleeping" quiet Gamakichi its late people are resting."
The small toad nodded looking around again" where are we?"
"It's complicated…."
"I would like to know everyone in Konoha is going crazy trying to find you."
He felt his heart ache his eyes softening" they are….?"
"Of course Tsunade has been sending dozens of teams to search for you she's really the one going crazy more than the rest."
He tried hard from having teary eyes" I see granny is that worry…."
"Your friends are taking it hard too. Some are even thinking that you and Sasuke are dead."
"Well we're not."
Gamakichi blinked" you mean Sasuke is with you too?"
"Yeah he is we're both staying in this house."
"And where is this house?"
"Far away from Konoha and the elemental countries trust me."
"Then why don't you return to the village?"
The blond sighed he didn't want to have an argument with the toad especially when he needed to keep his voice down" listen Gamakichi I need you to do me a favor please give this letter to granny and make sure she reads it to everyone."
The small toad nodded taking the letter" all right I'll make sure she gets it."
"Thanks that will be all…."
"I'll see you later then Naruto."
POOF!
"No you won't Gamakichi…."
He went back to the basement closing the door quietly making sure he didn't wake up the sleeping Sasuke he was still not happy that he was sleeping on the floor even when they have done a good job in doing their chores and getting a job Lightning wasn't being nice. The blond jinchurikki wrapped the covers and tried to drift to sleep he was still thinking about the letter he wrote to Tsunade.
Dear Granny and everyone back in Konoha:
I don't know whether you guys are worry about me and Sasuke but I want to say that we're both fine. I'm sorry but I won't say where we are its too long and complicated to explain we have found a place where we can live at peace and forget about all the shit we've been through in the past. Please I'm sorry but we're not ever returning to the village where we are we feel like we truly belong here we have already met lots of good friends and people that has become family to us. I'm beginning to like living here I feel like this can become my home away from home and it will be hard to say but both of us have chosen to move on with our lives and start a new beginning where there's no conflict between us.
I know what you will say what about your dream you never back down from your word or give up, yeah granny I know you will be upset after you read this. But I have made up my mind I love my new home and I'm willing to sacrifice becoming Hokage if it means I will stay here forever. Everyone try to move on without us we will always think about you because you're all important to us. I will miss you all remember to never give up in your dreams I know you can all do it believe it!
Granny-thank you for believing in me and for giving me your necklace I haven't regretted winning that bet from you.
Pervy sage-thank you for taking me as your apprentice I am proud to have you as my teacher I just wish you wouldn't be such a pervert.
Kakashi sensei-I am very proud to be part of your team and to have you as our jounin sensei I really wish you would have teach me something cool besides the one thousand years of pain and climbing trees.
Sakura-chan-I will always love you no matter what but I am moving on I have decided to give my heart to someone else, someone who has been through a lot of pain.
Iruka sensei-sorry that I always screw up during class and for all the times I ticked you off for doing those pranks you were part of the group that accepted me without hating me for what I carried inside of me you're the best teacher in the world I wish we could have one last meal at Ichiraku's thank you for everything.
Konohamaru-I hope you continue to train hard so you could become Hokage don't give up even if I won't be there to watch over you don't forget to master the sexy jutsu.
Everyone else from our group Shikamaru, Chouji, Ino, Kiba, Shino, Hinata, Neji, bushy brows Tenten everyone thank you I love you all.
By the time Naruto has drifted to sleep he never realized that his face was filled with tears.
To be continued
I want to thank you all for reviewing and for continuing putting the story on your fav list and story alert list. One more chapter before going to the first time skip I am happy you're all enjoying the story so far I promise you it will get better. Next chapter will be release during the week can't say an official day. I like the introduction of Snow and the future gang of NORA it will show how Naruto and Sasuke will become close friends with them.
Yes people when I move the plot getting to the events of the game Naruto and Sasuke will have their own Eidolons I just don't know who will they be I have only played X, X2, XII and XIII. But anyway it still too far early in the story to worry about that keep the reviews coming and I will see you all next time farewell.
Next time: an opportunity