Legend of the Defiers Chapter 6: To become strong, a Naruto + Final Fantasy XIII Crossover fanfic

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and FFXIII it rightfully belongs to Kishimoto-san and square enix and I'm not making money with this story.

Author's Notes: as always thank you for the reviews and just to let you know that I will keep the poll open until chapter 9 so keep voting and keep guessing.

The ages of the group are so far:

Naruto-14

Sasuke-14

Lightning-14

Serah-11

Snow-14

Gadot-14

Yuj-13

Maqui-11

Lebreau-13

Janil-14

Aidan-14

Rosh-23

Chapter 6 To become strong

(Time skip: five months later)

(Location: forest field Sanctum military academy upper region Bodhum Cocoon)

It was another day at the military academy and another exercise for the cadets. Everyone has reunited in the large forest stage that will be used for their next training exercise. They have formed a straight line while around them were a group of PSICOM soldiers and different vehicles for transportation the sight has perked the curiosity of some of the rookies. Among the group of soldiers stood a blue energy spinning circle they really didn't had a clue what it was all about since they have gotten an explanation or the reason they have come here. Some were still confused about the exercise waiting to get briefed on today's training. The future soldiers in training were still staring at the PSICOM soldiers thinking that it could be one of them in they managed to graduate while most were already thinking in surviving this exercise.

Within the group of eager cadets stood Naruto, Lightning, Sasuke, Aidan and Janil they seemed to be eager to begin this exercise than the rest. The five teens were ready to take another hard exercise Rosh will throw at them because they were more prepared than the rest. In five months the cadets in training have slightly become stronger in some of the areas it was clear that the military instructor ways of teaching has been very effective. In would seem that after five months the five teens has changed a bit in appearance or maybe in growth of spirit.

Lightning has developed over the months it was probably beginners luck that she was able to handles a fire weapon so well on her first try but maybe it was something else. She admitted it was hard aiming the weapon but that didn't stop her from succeeding it was more like her strong will to protect Serah that kept her going. She was a bit different just fourteen and she has already showed some slight muscles on her arms and her legs Rosh's training has been that effective indeed. She has also been getting the hang of using a gun blade her Blazefire saber has become an important and precious weapon to her. Today was just another exercise that she will have to overcome to advance and increased the chances of graduating.

Naruto has also showed some changes similar to the pink haired teen. Likewise he has developed muscles on his arms and legs and his body has become slightly well build it was impossible for him to become like this if he was on his normal shinobi routine training Rosh has done his work on him. He has seen it difficult to use a gun blade or maybe because his Flashflare saber wasn't easy to handle what the military instructor told him was true. Aiming and firing was a bit complicated along with changing it from sword to gun mode but like he told the PSICOM director he loves a challenge so he will do whatever it takes to master his weapon and step forward at the academy so he could graduate. He has been oblivious that with his new look he has taken the attention of some of the female cadets present or maybe because his heart has his full attention to a certain pink haired teen.

Sasuke has changed his physical having the same changes in muscle like Naruto so far he was pleased with the training from the academy it was more effective than the training at the shinobi academy. Preparing to become a soldier was more effective than becoming a shinobi looking around he was expecting this exercise will be as effective as the rest of the other exercises he was still having trouble mastering his new weapon Masamune the sword was a bit heavy swinging it fully took a lot of strength and energy. He ignored the looks the female cadets were giving him this is the last thing he needed fan girls in this world too he hoped that it doesn't get worst like the shinobi academy he was praying that the same thing doesn't repeat itself again.

Aidan has also changed in physical with slightly build muscles especially his arms because of his sniper training carrying his rifle for so long caused his arms to develop. Like Naruto and Sasuke he has become among the male cadets who were considered attractive in the female eye's something that the teen has noticed that Janil has been lately stealing glances at him he didn't know why. He admitted in five months he and the female cadet have become good friends but it was still a mystery to him why she kept on staring at him with a far off look. Ending the train of thought he focused on the upcoming exercise at hand he was confident he will do fine like his friends.

Janil has gotten some small muscles on her legs and arms probably in the same fashion as Lightning she has been training like crazy especially in using a gun blade. Although the Axis blade is supposed to be a balance weapon she had troubles aiming, firing and changing it to sword and gun mode the same faults the Farron were having. She has vowed to become strong like Lightning and become as good as her she gazed among the cadets and spotted Aidan once again she was staring at him and yet she didn't know why. They have become good friends but she has usually come up with a bad habit of staring at him every now and then. She ignored it and went back to wait for the exercise to begin focusing on her training was the only thing in her mind for now.

Rosh finally arrived to the holographic field holding a small controller facing the large group" today we will be having a survival exercise for those who don't remember the last topic we discussed in class I explained about the bio weapons and their advantages in a mission how much of a difference they can make. Today's exercise you will be using a bio weapon in order to seek out other cadets and gain a slight advantage by defeating them."

The cadets have been a bit taken that they will be facing each other in the survival exercise using some of the bio weapons that the military use in their missions. Some have shown that they were exited among them were Naruto, Sasuke and Aidan looking forward to show off their survival skills and take out members of the competition. Lightning and Janil didn't showed so much excitement but they showed more determination to get through the exercise and win this was just another part of the training program and another requirements necessary for graduating from the academy neither of them had any thoughts of losing.

For the two shinobi the exercise felt like déjà vu from when they took the chunin exams. The second test at the forest death and the objective to retrieve a heaven scroll or an earth scroll by fighting other teams in order to obtain them both erased the thought when they met Orochimaru posing as a leaf shinobi from hidden grass. This exercise will be easier because they don't need a scroll to pass just survive and take out other cadets who will be posing as the enemy. Another obstacle for them to overcome so they could pass and walk towards the path of graduation they we're very confident they had this exercise in the bag.

Rosh pressed a button from the device and from the spinning blue circle came a creature colored red with a tail and blue colored claws and jaw it looked canine" this is the pantheron it's the most common bio creature the units of PSICOM uses when it comes to search missions their senses are very advance and they are very good trackers. They will help you search for other cadets in this exercise."

"It's just like Kakashi sensei's shinobi hounds or Kiba and Akamaru" thought Naruto.

"They are the key in winning this exercise" thought Sasuke.

"Each of you will have your own pantheron remember that cunning and stealth are key fundamentals in this survival exercise you will have three hours to beat as many opponents as you can. You will leave the checkpoint on my command from here on the exercise will begin are there any questions?"

The military director nodded when no one replied" now remember that you're rifles are loaded with paint cartridges if any of you are hit by an opponent's weapon that means that you're death and you're out of the survival exercise you will also lose points for graduation. That will be all you're dismissed and best of luck."

"Sir!"

The PSICOM soldiers accompanying Rosh took a group of the cadets taking different path across the forest in order to be separated from each other as far as possible in order to start the survival exercise. Aidan, Sasuke and Lightning were among the other groups while Naruto and Janil separated from them taking another route look like they weren't going to see each other soon. It will probably make thing more interesting if they were separated they might meet encounter the other during the exercise. They will have to fight in order to prevent from being kick out of the exercise although some were on a big advantage.

Naruto and Sasuke were the ones after experiencing the horrors at the forest of death and all of the opponents they faced among them the sanin and S rank missing nin Orochimaru. After that trial they were probably ready for anything Rosh will throw at them in addition they had the advantage of having their bio weapon canine the pantheron who will be very useful tracking the scents of others. The only thing in their minds if they encounter during the exercise to prove who is better even as best friends they were still rivals that might never change.

(Time skip)

Aidan has found the perfect spot to ambush his enemies it was a good thing that rush has agreed to let him have a sniper rifle with paint cartridges. This was the perfect chance for him to test his skills as a sniper with his pantheron he couldn't lose his chances of surviving were very high. He was hiding underground using a cover camouflage to fool anybody passing by his position while his pantheron was hiding among the bushes sniffing any incoming enemy scents. He had the edge with hiding spot his sniper skills and the bio weapon it's like he had the best cards in hand all he needed to do is to play them right. The pantheron suddenly growled giving the young cadet the obvious reaction that it has detected company heading his way.

"Perfect my first victims are coming here" he grinned.

The teen aimed his rifle looking through the lens which the type of rifle allowed him to see a wide range spotted one cadet with his pantheron. The teen looked clueless like he had no idea where he was going and he also seemed nervous Aidan had to felt sorry for the poor rookie. He was the perfect example of first fresh cadets failing in an exercise the type that wasn't ready to have what it takes to be a good soldier. He didn't give it too much thought he has already had him in sights pulling the trigger he shot two paint bullets hitting the poor cadet in the chest. That was it he was dead and he has been eliminated from the test he has earned his first win.

"This is too easy…."

(Elsewhere)

Sasuke has been running his pantheron following him shortly he has already taken out a couple of the cadets they truly had idea what they were doing. It only took him less than a minute to shoot them they haven't learned a thing in the five months they have been attending the academy they will probably be the first to fail the program. The Uchiha has come prepared for this thanks to his past experience he has set a couple of traps for the unwanted guests and he made sure to hid them well from view. When the pantheron growled he knew that it has found more of the rookies it was time for him to hide and wait patiently if his traps will be a success.

The cadet walked through the path before he gasped falling into a giant hole his pantheron fell with him looks like its advance smell couldn't tell the trap on the ground. The Uchiha grinned as he left from his hiding spot and took his rifle shooting the fallen cadet without thinking twice another trap set another victory for him.

"You can go back now it's over…."

He left with the pantheron following him leaving the cadet with red paint shots one on his head and the other on his neck he was still trying to catch what just happened. Before he realized it was too late he has lost and he has been kicked out of the survival exercise.

(Scene change)

Janil stood behind one of the trees with her pantheron sniffing through the vicinity so far she hasn't encountered anyone. She was a bit nervous not by the exercise in general she didn't wanted to run into Lightning she couldn't bring herself to fight her friend and role model she will definitely lose if she encounters the Farron her skills didn't come close to hers. Then again if it was someone like Aidan she will win she has been studying how to defeat snipers the thought of beating him made her smile although he was her friend she felt like beating him in his own game. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of her pantheron growling it has found some opponents heading her direction she readied her rifle waiting for whoever it It's to approach her direction.

She finally saw the enemy and they were only two male cadets with their pantheron walking side by side. The teen found the idea of joining forces to take out other cadets was very clever it was a good strategy it was also a good way to prevent ambushes by small numbers. Luckily she has learned that a good soldier is always prepared for anything taking from one of her pants pockets she took a knockout gas grenade this is what she needed to use to take care of more than one opponent. She waited for them to get a little closer taking in consideration not to get sniffed by the two pantherons accompanying them.

"Now's my chance…."

She threw the grenade falling right in front of them making the two teens gasped but it was too late. The gas has spread covering them and eventually they fell unconscious along with the two pantheron they were completely out. It was Janil's chance to attack she emerged from her hiding spot and fired hitting the two cadets with her red paint taking them out of the survival exercise. She smiled happy to have won this time but she knew she couldn't count victory yet there were still of people out of there she signaled her pantheron to move as they left their position.

"I wonder whose next…."

(Elsewhere)

Naruto was doing well like the rest of his friends the blond jinchurikki has actually survive so far. Like Sasuke he had the experience from the forest of death and the knowledge to get through this it was much easier because he didn't needed a scroll to pass just take out the enemies spotted with the paint weapons. Even easier having your own weapon to sniffed them and warn you when they were near the blond shinobi has done a good job already taking care of a couple of cadets eliminating them from the exercise all he needed to do is keep going. A grin has formed on his lips if ends up meeting Sasuke or Aidan he wouldn't mind taking them on it will be different if it was Janil and Lightning so far he has only beaten male cadets. Somehow it felt like it wasn't right to hit a female even if this was a necessary exercise to graduate.

He jumped from a tree branch looking around his pantheron took a few steps not tracking anything he was safe for now. Deciding to take another route he was interrupted by the sound of his stomach a blushed has appeared on his face he was obviously hungry. The blond jinchurikki was too focused on the exercise that he has forgotten to worry about the matters of the stomach.

"Can't continue on an empty stomach…."

The blond got seated next to a tree slump he opened up a small back pack where he packed his food. He took an energy bar he bought they are supposed to be the nutrient food soldiers eat when they were out on missions Rosh said that it was fundamental to eat said bars because it gives them the energy needed to fight. Happy that he was going to satisfy his hunger he removed the wrapper of the bar he finally ate the bar before his eyes widened chewing the nutrient food.

"What the where the hell is the taste?"

It's true that the energy bar tasted nothing and he remember Rosh telling him that he didn't have to worry about the taste now he knew why. He continued chewing the bar but it wasn't helping with no taste it was hard to swallow so he eventually swallowed once and left the bar without taking another bite.

"I can't eat this…."

The whiskered blond felt like he has lost his appetite the only thing on his mind is to finish the exercise so he could go and buy some real food with taste. Before he realized that the energy bar was taken from his hand only to see that his pantheron was eating it his eyes were wide seeing the bio creature chowing down on tasteless bar. He quickly checked his bag only to remember that he only bought one it made him lowered his gaze and glare at the bio creature.

"My only energy bar you ate it!"

The pantheron ignored him making the blond jinchurikki glared daggers at the bio weapon even if he didn't wanted to eat it he needed it to survive the exercise he kicked it hard sending it to the ground. He gave a satisfactory grin not realizing that the pantheron returned with the vengeance and bit his hand it only took a minute for Naruto to feel the pain he was feeling.

"AAAAAAAAAAhhhhhhhhhhh!"

His cries of pain were loud enough that everyone in the entire forest heard it. The blond shinobi quickly shut his mouth but it was too late now he has probably given his location to anyone near his position they might be coming for him he ignored the growling pantheron wanting more payback for what he did and went to the nearby bushes. Taking his rifle he gazed from the corner and spotted no one for a moment it was quiet he felt relax and thought that maybe no one heard his painful scream it reminded him of his left hand which was marked by the pantheron's bite. The bio weapon has detected someone near them and gave an attacking growl making Naruto to turn around and aimed his rifle but it was too late.

He was shoot three times square on his chest it didn't took him time to react to the attack. He was shocked he has been shot now he was out of the exercise his cerulean eyes fell on the person that defeated him. Another pantheron was present while the owner was next to him Naruto saw the pink haired teen Lightning with a serious expression holding her paint rifle now he figured out what has happened. The Farron has beaten him in the exercise fair and square somehow it made him feel happy at least it wasn't Sasuke who took him out. He also felt sad that he can't continue with the exercise no doubt he will receive low points for this loss.

Lightning went closer to him making eye contact with him and it made the blond teen nervous at the close proximity he had no idea what she was doing. Once she was close that their noses were a few inches close namely their lips she looked into his eyes her expression didn't changed there was no emotion in them.

"You're death…."

"Huh….?"

"It's over."

"I guess you really got me Lightning."

"Screaming loudly is a way of saying to the enemy here I am come and get me."

"It's not my fault that stupid pantheron bit me" he pointed to his bio creature who only growled at him.

The pink haired teen ignored him she started tying him up.

"Lightning what are you doing?"

"Tying you up in case you're still alive and try to escape you're supposed to be dead…."

The blond jinchurikki chuckled nervously" I don't think that's really necessary this is just an exercise."

"I think it is…."

"Seriously Lightning don't do this."

"Dead bodies don't talk."

"Lightning please could you at least give me an energy bar I'm hungry."

The Farron shrugged her shoulders tossing one of her energy bars she has also come prepare to eat. Naruto was thrilled but he didn't have the chance to take it since his hands were tied up and also because Lightning's pantheron ate the bar leaving the whiskered blond with nothing to eat again.

"You got to be kidding me!" his mouth was wide open.

"Tough luck…."

"Lightning this is not funny untie me!" he gave a comical expression.

"You let your guard down now deal with it" she finally left with her pantheron following her.

"Wait don't go!"

He glared at his pantheron" this is your fault!"

The bio creature growled and charged at him biting his other hand.

"Aaahhh you stupid mutt!"

(Time skip)

The three hours were up the survival exercise was over Rosh was standing in the checkpoint with the cadets who lost. The fallen cadets have arrived with each minute or hour showing paint marks in their uniform proof that they have been shot and eventually defeated the pantherons were gathered and sent back to their cages. Soon the ones who survived came which were Sasuke, Aidan, Janil and Lightning with their pantherons the military instructor seemed to be pleased with the results before he realized that there was someone missing. The PSICOM director has memorized how many cadets he had since it was quite obvious for him to know that there was someone missing he hope whoever he is he didn't got lost in the forest.

"Congratulations you four you have survived the exercise."

The four cadets gave their salute as the instructor saluted back" someone is missing from the group?"

"Someone's missing really?" Aidan looked at the group not noticing.

"I wonder who?" followed Janil.

"I have an idea who" Sasuke sweat dropped like he already knew who it was.

"Hmm" Lightning probably read the Uchiha's mind having the same thought of a certain blond teen.

That's when Naruto arrived not looking happy his clothes were still stained with the red paint courtesy of the pink haired cadet he was more upset of the pantheron walking next to him. The bio weapon was still growling and glaring daggers at the whiskered blond for what happened earlier somehow his not so happy look made Lightning smile a little before she quickly erased it. Everyone turned to him namely Sasuke who wasn't happy seeing him that he got shot and eliminated his expectations were high that he was going to survived like the rest did.

"Cadet Uzumaki we thought you have gotten lost in the hologram" said Rosh.

"Not lost I had troubles trying to break free from being tied up" mumble the blond.

The PSICOM director nodded" yes I was told by some of the cadets of cadet Farron's ways of dealing with the enemy."

"It's necessary to make sure the enemy doesn't get any advantages in battle" replied Lightning.

"That is correct you really are paying attention cadet Farron. But anyway cadet Uzumaki you failed the survival exercise."

"It's this stupid mutt's fault I got eliminated he ate my only energy bar and bit me twice!" Naruto shouted angrily pointed his accusing finger on the bio weapon.

Rosh crossed his arms with a slight frown on his face" the pantheron would never attack you unless you provoke it first."

The whiskered blond blush scratching the back of his head" well I kind of….kicked it for eating my energy bar."

"Having a bio creature is meant to have it as an advantage when it comes to tracking the enemy not so you could turn it into your enemy Uzumaki."

"Actually sir my pantheron ate my energy bar too" Aidan said.

"Thank you Aidan for understanding my point" the blond was grateful someone has suffered the same fate.

"Perhaps the pantheron finds the bars taste quite likeable for their tastes" stated the PSICOM director.

"What taste?" The two cadets thought in unison because they have tasted the tasteless energy bars.

(Time skip)

Naruto was running the halls in a hurry he couldn't believe he was so late for history class or maybe because he didn't wanted to be there. Of everything in the entire military academy he didn't like military history it's not that it wasn't interesting it's that he wasn't good in the subject. He did like reading the book he borrowed a while ago from the library about the war of transgression but taking a class about it was completely different. The last topic Rosh has discussed was about the lower world Pulse, the Fal'Cie in said and the l'Cie, the different kinds of brand that were available just thinking about him explaining it was enough for him to start drifting to sleep.

Arriving at the door where the classroom was located he really hoped that the class hasn't started yet but knowing his luck he was probably dead wrong. The door hissed open entering the classroom he sweat dropped everyone was already seated ready for the class Rosh was on his holding a stock of paper while everyone else was staring at him. Sasuke sighed at his friend's tardiness while, Aidan shook his head thinking he did wrong, Janil sweat dropped and Lightning just ignored the fact that he was here.

"Glad you could join us for class cadet Uzumaki you're ten minutes late" said Rosh.

"Sorry I'm really sorry I just got lost the academy is so big."

"I expected you were going to say that you got lost in the road of life or that you were helping an old lady cross the street."

The blond jinchurikki sweat dropped" no it's not that honest I got lost on the way…."

Sasuke face palmed" using Kakashi's excuses for arriving late isn't making it any better…."

"Take your seat already Uzumaki" the military instructor wasn't happy.

The blond took the nearest seat possible which was in the center he was a bit disappointed that he didn't got to seat next to Lightning. The pink haired teen was far from him up front she already had her pen ready to write anything but judging from what Rosh was holding she had a pretty good idea what today's topic is.

"Now I hope you all have study for today's quiz."

"Quiz today?" Naruto was shocked feeling so nervous.

"I mentioned last time in class that I will be giving you a quiz on the Pulse Fal'Cie and the l'Cie if you remember…."

"Oh yeah of course I remember" he sweat dropped adjusting on his seat.

Rosh started passing the quiz sheet while the cadets passed them to their neighbor while a certain blond felt like he wanted to get sick so he could have the day off. He has been trying hard to study but it was difficult to understand the information he didn't complaint about the director's teaching skills he was good he will make a good teacher like Iruka. But being here reminded him of the shinobi academy and how much he was considered a dead last even if he tried to study not to mention that sometimes he will fell asleep in class embarrassing himself further more. He calmed himself and took a small breath taking his pen he was ready to answer the test and by now everyone else started Sasuke, Lightning, Aidan and Janil looked pretty calm answering it.

"Come on Naruto you can do this just concentrate…."

(Scene change time skip)

"What's with Naruto?"

Janil and Lightning were walking the halls after leaving the class they were among the first to finished Rosh's quiz. The girl's decided to spend time together away from the boys at least that's what Janil thought the pink haired teen was quiet and she looked like she was in a bad mood her reason was pretty much unknown. It was the brunette who asked the question regarding the blond cadet like she was expecting an answer from the Farron but she didn't get one the pink haired cadet was quiet looking in thought. Janil looked hurt that she didn't receive a reply she thought she will get a conversation with her friend so far Lightning was the only female friend she had because she became friends with the boy cadets.

"I mean he…..he's looks like he hasn't been trying hard enough it's like he's not prepare for this. I'm beginning to wonder what he's score so far" she resumed the topic concerning the blond.

"Maybe he deserves it" Lightning muttered.

"What Lightning?" she was taken back that she final got a reply even if she didn't hear her.

"Nothing…."

Janil smiled" well anyway I just hope he gets better because if this keeps up who knows maybe he won't be so lucky to make it…."

"….."

"He has to train harder and study harder too."

"Change the topic" she replied getting a little frustrated.

"Huh….oh right sorry so Lightning among the boys is there anyone that you like?"

"Pass…."

"What?"

"I'm not interested in anyone."

"Just asking you have to admit that they are quite a lot of boys in the academy that are cute."

"Pass" Lightning repeated not wanting to hear the topic of boys especially the one thing called love.

"Okay so what's your favorite part of the training program?"

"All I guess…."

"That's great" she sweat dropped at her answer.

As they walked they arrived at one of the water bending machines. Lightning took her id card and slid it in the opening where the card goes seconds later a bottle of water was released from the bottom side. She was still feeling tire from the survival exercise she didn't hesitated in opening and taking a sip while Janil looked like she was whether she should take a bottle or not she didn't felt so thirsty when she got closer to the bending machine a group of female cadets arrived at the spot they were having a conversation and from the looks of it they were talking about the most obvious thing regular teenage girl would talk, boys.

"I guess he's cute" one of the female cadets went to take a water bottle.

"I'll say that Uchiha is truly attractive."

Lightning rolled her eyes while looking bored that's all girl think about instead of thinking about graduating from the academy with high honors it has to be the opposite.

"What about Cross?"

"Cute but a bit immature he's not my type."

"Nope he's not cute please" Janil thought rolling her eyes somehow she felt like she was in denial.

"And Uzumaki?"

The pink haired cadet looked at the group once the blonds name was mentioned giving them a suspicious glance.

"What about him?"

"I admit that he's adorable with those whiskers but no way."

"I'll say he's not boyfriend material."

The Farron's eyes hardened with anger as she started squeezing her water bottle while Janil saw her expression and got worried.

"Lightning….?"

"There's no way I find him cute have you seen his performance at the training program?"

"I have and he's definitely not a boy who will get anyone's interest."

"….." the pink haired teen looked angrier.

"Lightning what's wrong?" Janil was really worried.

"He's a loser."

"He's not just boyfriend material but he's also not soldier material either."

*squash*

The group of female cadets along with Janil looked at the source of the noise and it was Lightning who has destroyed her water bottle with her strength. The water has fallen to the ground her boots getting wet in the process everyone was staring at her not knowing why she did that it was strange. The Farron didn't said a word she didn't even looked at the girls she just walked out leaving them but their gazes turned to her friend.

"What's eating her?"

"I don't know if you all excuse me" Janil left politely following the pink haired cadet leaving them and as soon as she was gone they returned talking about the topic.

(Scene change)

The cadets were doing another exercise this time it was a target practice only it was different from the ones they usually have done. It was a maze filled with different holographic targets it was truly different from other weapons training exercises. The groups of soldiers in training were already present waiting for Rosh to arrive and start the training as usual there were some who were anxious and others who were still nervous because they have done poorly in other target exercises this one seems to be harder than the others. Most were confident and secure that they will do well and a nice performance to add more points to their graduation.

Naruto was standing waiting for instructions like everyone else he was in deep thought with what happened at class. He was wondering if he did well on the quiz although he has been having trouble studying because it was hard for him to memorize the information. The blond jinchurikki was never good when it came to study and even when he was really trying he still couldn't process the information he was reading and eventually learn it truthfully he was more worried for the results of the quiz than starting this exercise. Too much concentrated in his thinking that he didn't know that Sasuke was next to him in thought like he was going to say something.

The Uchiha hasn't been happy with the blonds performance lately it felt like the shinobi academy all over again he was acting like the old dead last Naruto. Making a new start in a new world also meant that they will be different and do better in all kinds of things namely doing well at the military academy. Naruto wasn't putting his part or doing a good job so far and that doesn't go well with the raven haired cadet. Although he didn't show it he actually wanted him to do better and be able to graduate with him and Lightning he won't admit it but he will show his friendly side.

"Naruto….?"

"Hmm…."

"Did you hear me?"

"Huh….what?" the blond finally snapped from his thinking.

"If you're thinking about the quiz you're probably right and you failed it."

He frowned at his comment" shessh thanks a lot Sasuke that makes me feel a lot better."

"It doesn't has to we need to talk."

"About what….?"

"Your performance so far…."

"Cut me some slack I'm not in the mood."

"You will have to listen anyway you have to stop this right now."

"What are you talking about?"

"I'm talking about your attitude of being a second dead last in this academy we're not kids anymore we're now soldiers in training."

He growled" it's about the quiz?"

"It's about everything since we started at the academy you have been showing poor performance you're not doing well in the program. Who knows everyone might already think that you're a…."

"Go ahead Sasuke say it" his cerulean eyes were glaring at the Uchiha.

"A loser…."

"Just leave me alone."

"You know I'm right you have to get better and fast do you want to continue falling behind me?"

"Shut up Sasuke" he almost shouted glaring at him.

The Uchiha glared at him equally" then get better and stronger loser you don't want me and Lightning to become stronger than you."

"Get off my back teme."

"Make me."

Before Naruto was about to do something he might regret Aidan shows up getting between the two cadets" hey guys what's up?"

"Nothing it's nothing."

"Hn…."

"Okay the director is here."

The two shinobi have finally stopped their quarrel spotting Rosh arriving to the room they looked at each other one more time giving the silent expression that this wasn't over. The female cadets were also present Lightning and Janil were among the first in line to arrive early some of them were concerned and it wasn't the exercise at all. Janil gazed at the pink haired teen still worried and wondering what happened to her earlier when they were near the bending machine she had no idea what happened to make her react so angry. She did figure it involves Naruto somehow because she got angry when the girls started talking about him in their topic of boys but the real question is why.

Lightning was not in the mood her expression said it clearly she couldn't get it out of her mind. Remembering the words those female cadets said about a certain whiskered blond it was still confusing why it bothered her a lot. She knew they were right when it came to his performance but the loser part wasn't that clear it bothered her even more when they were talking about his looks that he was cute. The Farron frowned and brush those thoughts aside this wasn't the time or the place becoming strong and graduating from the academy was the only thing that matters to her.

"I don't need this let them say whatever they want he's nothing but an idiot he will always be one…."

"This is your next exercise in weapons training you probably have noticed that this is different from the regular practice exercises you have been doing since we started. Like before you will do this individually each of you will run this obstacle course with one objective in mind to take out all the l'Cie targets. Your performance will be determine in the elimination of all targets and most important in the time the faster the time you break through the obstacle course without missing a target the better and the higher your points will be. You will start in this checkpoint which is the entrance to the maze quickness and cleverness is the keys to win this exercise you can use any of the rifles I have introduced as well as using your personal weapon."

"Sir what is the record of the course?" Aidan asked in curiosity.

"I'm glad you have asked cadet Cross the record of the maze is twenty seconds and the one who has it, that will be yours truly and take it from me this is a long maze. I suggest you all get a move on and think fast I don't want any of you to get lost."

"Trying to scare us won't work" thought Naruto.

"Now let's get this started who would like to be first any volunteers?"

To anyone's surprise a random cadet raised his hand which it wasn't Lightning, Naruto or Sasuke for the matter. The teen cadet was quick and he didn't felt like he wanted to be left behind and went to the starting point of the maze picking one of the rifles he choose as his personal choice. Rosh gave him the signal to begin and went in as fast as anyone could tell unfortunately for him he wasn't going to do well and it was going to affect him a lot.

For the next hour and a half every single cadet in the ground has entered the obstacle course. Passing through the maze full of holographic targets of people with a Pulse l'Cie brand Rosh has already showed different kinds of brand which were of Pulsion origin the young cadets knew they were their enemy and they were taught to eliminate that threat. Many cadets have safely made it out destroying all the targets but they have done a poor time not even coming close to Rosh's record in the course. Some have done regular others did bad but they have all managed to destroy all targets and made it without the need of getting lost in the maze. However among all the cadets only a couple has done well to have taken the PSICOM director's attention.

Janil has done a time of forty seconds not a good time of forty seconds but she believed it was good enough to get her some decent points. The female cadet has chosen to use her axis blade in gun mode obviously to take out the targets she wasn't please with her results but for her first time doing this obstacle course it wasn't so bad. Aidan has taken one of the automatic rifles since he couldn't use his sniper rifle for this exercise and he has done a bit better than Janil he hit all targets and got a time of thirty fiver seconds although he swore he could have gotten a better time if he was using his sniper rifle but that was according to him.

Sasuke did a time of twenty seven seconds hitting all targets the Uchiha seemed to have done it again and it was so far the best time in the exercise most of the male cadets were impressed that he did so well on his first try even when he used the usual rifle because he wasn't allowed to use his sword Masamune. It showed the difference training in the military academy for five months can do however there was someone else who did better.

Lightning was the last person to finish the course and she hit all the targets using her Blazefire saber gun mode and the most shocking thing she did it all in twenty five seconds five seconds behind Rosh's record. Everyone was shocked with her performance even Sasuke while Rosh was impressed with her work no doubt she was a true soldier in the making. With some practice who knows she might even break his record someday however the pink haired cadet wasn't so pleased with her time she was expecting to get a better time.

Everyone was done with the exercise except for one the blond cadet who was at the entrance to the maze with an uncertain expression on his face. Naruto was holding his Flashflare saber in gun mode ready to take the course he wasn't feeling nervous but full of confidence and determination. He felt like making up for the quiz because he was pretty sure he flunked it not knowing the information quite well this was the perfect chance to make up for his failure. He saw that Lightning was watching she was watching him now it wasn't the chance to screw up he could do this if he believes in himself like he has always done before. It wasn't just the Farron but the rest of his friends as well Sasuke, Aidan and Janil he couldn't let them down especially Rosh.

"Are you ready cadet Uzumaki?" Rosh was standing in the controls of the course which indicates the number of targets and the time.

"Ready!"

"You may begin….now!"

The blond jicnhurikki charged entering the maze time was not on his side he ran straight into a hallway meeting his first target. The hologram of a person wearing a Pulse Fal'Cie brand meaning he was an l'Cie he quickly aimed his gun blade shooting it and move on heading to two paths. He didn't even thought about it as he took the right side and heading to a dead end which made him growled in frustration that cost him time he went back taking the right path which is the left side. Taking the hall more holographic targets appeared and he quickly disposed of them another target appeared above him and he reacted shooting it. Proceeding ahead he stopped because now there were three paths to take making him annoyed at the situation.

"Come on give me a break."

"Move it Uzumaki!" Rosh shouted.

The blond cadet didn't had time to play miny, mainy moe as he took the middle path only to find a dozen targets before him he quickly shoot them all leaving none as he headed to another hallway with more targets disposing them in a hurry. He felt confident now if this keeps up he was going to make it on time the exercise wasn't so hard after all. After shooting more targets he could see it not too far the finish checkpoint he was able to see some of the cadets like Aidan and Janil he was truly going to do well in the exercise after all.

"Uzumaki you missed a target go back!" the PSICOM director could see it in the computer.

"Damn it!"

He went back going to the three paths he knew the middle path lead him to the finish but one of the two will only lead him to the last target he has missed. He made his choice taking the left path running the path he hoped he made the right choice and he did as the target appeared. Reaching for his Flashflare saber he gasped when he saw the holograph before him it was a obviously an l'Cie but of a little boy who seemed to be around six this has made the blond jinchurikki to stop from firing his weapon. He was frozen he didn't know what to do this boy was his target an enemy an l'Cie he's supposed to shot it and ask questions later, yet he couldn't do it.

"What are you waiting for Uzumaki shoot it?"

"Sir I…."

"Shot it that's an l'Cie the enemy death to all l'Cie from Pulse!"

"I…."

"Do it or you'll fail the exercise!"

"Naruto what is going on with you?" thought Sasuke.

The whiskered blond pointed his gun blade at the boy l'Cie but he never pulled the trigger he felt like he couldn't even if he was bearing the mark that made him the enemy of Cocoon. To Naruto that little boy was still human the l'Cie brand didn't make him any different his heart was too human to go through with it and shoot it.

"Shoot it now!" Rosh shouted in anger.

Naruto finally lowered his gun blade" I'm sorry sir….I can't."

"Uzumaki!"

(Time skip)

Naruto has left the maze with a defeated expression lowering his head in shame. It wasn't because he failed the exercise it was the fact that he couldn't take the life of that boy l'Cie it didn't mattered if he was just a hologram if it was real he still wouldn't be able to go through with it. Taking the life of someone so young even as an l'Cie was against who he is as a former shinobi he was told at the academy about the risks that is being a shinobi. That one day you will be force to make a drastic decision among them the burden of taking a human life he walked out where the group of cadets was he still wasn't looking. The blond was too ashamed that he couldn't gaze in their faces but he will walk proudly because he was still human and he wasn't going to take the life of a child.

Sasuke didn't wanted to look at the blond jinchurikki he wasn't happy that he failed another exercise. He failed the survival exercise, the quiz and now this it bothered him that he was acting like he was still in the shinobi academy. Acting like he was the dead last wasn't going to be very favorable here especially when they promised to start a new life in this new world. It looked like he was joking around and he wasn't being serious maybe coming here was a bad idea for the blond.

Aidan and Janil didn't know what to think their friend was probably the worst of the cadets. They knew how harder the training will as the months will go and eventually the years if this was the best the Uzumaki could do then it will be better if he leaves now. Naruto was their friend but he didn't had what it takes to be a soldier then he shouldn't be here he has failed in too many exercises they thought that he should quit to prevent further embarrassment.

Lightning didn't even bother looking at him once again he has embarrassed himself in front of everyone he has made a fool of himself. It upset her why coming here if he wasn't going to give his best and try to become a full blooded soldier by now she has forgotten about the incident at the bending machine with the group of female cadets right now she didn't wanted to look at his face. He was all talk running his mouth that he was going to do whatever it takes to give her and Serah a bigger house for them to live in it made her laugh with sarcasm.

Rosh came to the blond cadet with an unhappy expression" cadet Uzumaki I would like to have a word with you in private, in my office."

"Yes sir…."

(Scene change)

Naruto sighed arriving at the door of Rosh's office he had a pretty good idea what he was going to tell him. The PSICOM director wasn't happy with his decision in not shooting the last target of the maze exercise he will probably get lecture by the colonel or worst he didn't wanted to think about that. If he was expelled from the academy he will never forgive himself he was determined to see this through the end and graduate. The door hissed opened as he entered the office and saw the military director in his desk writing something and for a moment he thought the worst that he was filling a document that had to do with his expel from the academy the sight made him so nervous.

He cleared his throat getting his attention" you wanted to see me sir?"

"Yes Uzumaki have a seat."

The whiskered blond nodded getting seated in the seat next to his desk while Rosh has finished filling the document he couldn't clearly see the information he has written he only hope it wasn't anything bad about him.

"Sir….?"

"You didn't shoot the last target Uzumaki."

"I couldn't…."

"Why did you hesitate?"

"I couldn't do it sir it was just a boy."

"It doesn't matter it was an l'Cie Pulse l'Cie are our enemies. It doesn't matter if they are kids, teenagers, adults or old people if they have a Pulse brand then they must be dispose of immediately."

"He may be an l'Cie but he's still looks human…."

"They make looked human….for now but you remember in class about the legend of those branded as l'Cie?"

The blond jinchurikki nodded" I know the legend when it comes to fulfilling their focus and when they don't…."

"They don't fulfill their focus they will become something worse than an l'Cie a Ci'eth trust me a Ci'eth is a true monster who only cares about creating chaos and disorder they no longer have a human mind or a heart for the matter. It's better to take them out while they're still human before they transform into a Ci'eth."

"I know we have to fear Pulse but the war of transgression was five hundred years ago and so far nothing has happened. Is it necessary for us to be prepared like this?"

Rosh chuckled" you're probably the first cadet to ask me such a question."

"I'm sorry sir."

"Don't apologize."

The military director got up from his seat walking so that his back was faced to the blond" you may be right after five hundred years since the war that we shouldn't worry that everything will stay calm and Cocoon will experience never ending peace however that's not what the people think they feared the lower world with every inch of their lives it's because they feared that another war of transgression will occur…."

He gazed at the window looking in thought" my great great grandfather died in the war that war caused so many deaths and destruction to our world the people can't stop thinking about it. If another war happens they feared it will be worst and that this time it might cause the destruction of Cocoon it was a Pulse l'Cie that caused the destruction of the outer rim only one that was enough. That gives enough justification for the people to fear l'Cie."

Naruto nodded" I know I read a book about the war of transgression according to the book a Pulse l'Cie was filled with so much anger and hatred that it transformed into something so evil. The reincarnation of wrath…."

"Ragnarok" Rosh finished with a hint of venom calling the beast's name" yes that is correct Uzumaki it was Ragnarok the one responsible for destroying Cocoon's outer shell and the deaths of so many innocent people that is why if there ever is a Pulse l'Cie here it must be eliminated at all cost we can't risk having Ragnarok again. Now do you understand why is necessary for us to be prepare and to be ready to protect Cocoon with our lives?"

"Yes….I do sir."

"It's understandable to feel compassion when it comes to innocent lives but it's different if among those people there are l'Cie remember that the Sanctum was created not just to rule over Cocoon but to protect it from the threat of Pulse. However that doesn't explain on your poor performance in the program."

The blond lowered his head he was right Rosh did called him to talk about his faults in the training so far he knew Sasuke was right all along" poor performance….?"

"You have been failing in almost all the exercises so far you also failed today's quiz and the maze as well you haven't been showing the true spirit of a true soldier in training. Let me inform you Uzumaki that it takes a hundred thousand points to become a graduate candidate so far cadet Farron has twenty five hundred, cadet Uchiha twenty four hundred, cadet Mesko twenty three hundred and cadet Cross with two thousand do you understand where I'm going with this?"

"I think I do sir" he replied nervously.

"In the five months that you have been in the program you only have three hundred fifty points and that's a very low score right now you're the only cadet with the lowest score. If you continue on this path then I will tell you right now you won't graduate."

"I understand sir I will do better."

"That gun blade you have the Flashflare saber is the strongest gun blade ever made it was design only to be use by the best and most exceptional soldiers. At first I had high expectations that you might be the one to master it and bring its potential but after seeing what you're capable off it would appears my expectations were wrong."

Naruto nodded feeling his spirit and heart crushed by his words his pride was also damaged by the harsh words but he knew that he deserves them because he wasn't being a good cadet his chances of graduating were very low. At these times he felt like crying but now it wasn't the time or the place to do so he had a lot of thinking to do a lot to reflect.

"My recommendation to you Uzumaki get better I don't want to fail you from the program are we clear?"

"Yes sir…."

"You're dismissed then."

"Sir…."

(Scene change)

Lightning was walking the halls of the academy in deep thought like she was thinking about something so hard that she couldn't erase it from her head. It was something serious to keep her like this of course she knew what was it she couldn't forget something like that. She recently went to Rosh's office and heard the conversation the military director had with Naruto she didn't meant to eavesdropped she was going to talk to the PSICOM director before she heard his voice and obviously Naruto's. She found out how much trouble the blond cadet really is if he continues to fail the exercises and she believes he deserves to fail however her conscious was getting the best of her implying that he didn't deserve failure.

She stopped walking when she spotted Sasuke leaning on the wall as he was waiting for her. Looking into his eyes it felt like the Uchiha has read her mind and was aware what she was thinking without using his sharingan of course. The pink haired teen remained quiet giving her usual expression even if she was still thinking what Rosh told Naruto she refused to give in into her heart or what she was feeling. It wasn't her fault the blond was failing the training program so why she should butt in it wasn't her business to do so yet she remembered how Serah cares for him and how close she saw him as one of their own, as family.

"….."

"I know you want to help Naruto" Sasuke looked at her he was obviously talking about the whiskered blonds situation with being a loser.

"I don't…." her replied was cold.

The Uchiha grinned" but you don't want to admit it."

"Tch…."

(Time skip)

The cadets were in the gym area ready for the next exercise which some were already annoyed that it could be another physical exercise. People like Janil have had it with doing pushups and squats because doing over five hundred of them was enough to put anyone into shape and it was ridiculous to do more. Others didn't care and wanted to get it over with while there was a small group who only wanted to finish for the day and go to their homes.

Naruto was next to Sasuke and Aidan the blond jinchurikki was quiet in deep thought. While everyone else was talking he was still thinking what Rosh told him he wasn't doing a good job he knew it and he knew that he wasn't graduate material either. Remembering Sasuke's words he was right the entire experience at the military academy has become like how he used to be at the shinobi academy he was being another dead last. The loser, the underdog when he was supposed to be starting a new life in this world he has to ruin it by acting this way but it wasn't like he wanted to. It was hard to learn all of this especially history he has been studying but he was still having problems he erased the thoughts and calmed down.

Lightning has been staring at Naruto for a while remembering his current situation she thought that it was best if he fail because he wasn't showing the appropriate attitude a future soldier was showing. The her confrontation with Sasuke didn't help her cause either still struggling with supporting him or just let him do whatever he wants and eventually fail the academy that seemed to be appropriate. Minding her own business was the right thing to do and forget about the blond before his image came to her mind followed by the image of Serah and the times Naruto and Sasuke has spent with her. How they have become an important in the younger Farron's life everything was annoying her she released her gaze from the whiskered blond.

"Ridiculous…."

Rosh arrived facing the group" the part of this next exercise will be all about hand to hand combat. It is essential that in a situation where you're out of ammo or when you're unarmed the only way to fight the enemy is through hand to hand combat. This part of the program will help you and test your abilities in the art of fighting."

"Perfect" Sasuke grinned he had this exercise won because he used his sharingan to copy Rock Lee's fast taijutsu style.

"Any volunteers….?"

Sasuke and Aidan were the first to raise their hands volunteering for the exercise as Rosh gave them the large space of the gym for their small combat. The floor was protected with a plastic mattress so they no one was going to get hurt when they fell to the ground the group has also gave them the space forming a circle leaving the two cadets to have their match. They charged at each other Aidan launched a couple of punches but the Uchiha dodged all of them he countered with a fast kick making contact as the young cadet fell to the ground. Everybody stood in awe it happened so fast while Aidan was still trying to get up knowing that he was pretty much outmatched.

"It seems cadet Uchiha is a natural in hand to hand combat good job."

Sasuke nodded as she shook hands with Aidan before they returned to the group Rosh took a list with the names of all the cadets in order to call them out for the exercise" all right next is cadet Mesko and cadet Ashe."

Janil and the other female cadet stepped front ready for the fight it was interesting since both girls were equally match. They put on a show until Janil got the upper hand and managed to beat her opponent after the match they shook hands congratulating each other on their performance as Rosh called the next cadets on his list. The next fifteen minutes were filled with hand to hand combat action the soldier in training were proving that they were in physical combat some proved to be good, other still needed some practice and another group weren't good at all.

Rosh was carefully taking notes evaluating the cadet's combat skills that were how he will determine to give higher points that will lead to future candidates of graduation. Everyone once done checking his list he noticed that there were only two names left to take the exercise his expression showed that he was a bit interested of the match and the outcome from it.

"Cadet Farron and cadet Uzumaki you two are up."

The blond jinchurikki was taken back" what I'm fighting Lightning?"

The pink haired teen was already in the middle waiting for him to come her eyes were on him she saw this fight kind of ironic. Of all people to fight she was fighting it was the whiskered blond who has been living with her and her sister for a year and just because he was family to Serah it didn't meant she was going to show mercy on him. This was just another training exercise of the academy and she couldn't afford losing failure was not an option it was a gut feeling that sooner or later she will have to faced him either Naruto or Sasuke, even Aidan and Janil.

Naruto wasn't expecting this to fight Lightning he felt like having bad luck. He didn't want to fight someone close to him he wouldn't mind if it was Sasuke because he was also his rival aside from best friend but the pink haired teen was a different story. Staring at her she looked like she meant business she was deadly serious like she was planning to beat him to a pulp the last part made him gulp hoping that it wasn't true. He was afraid he might end up hurting her or worst he would never forgive himself if he ends up hurting the older Farron.

"Come on Naruto take it easy…."

"Lightning let's try and enjoy the fight okay?" he smiled nervously.

"Don't hold back because I won't" her expression meant her words.

"Are you two ready?" asked Rosh.

"Ready sir…."

"Ready…."

"Remember that I will call the match off depending on the injury receive from both ends you may begin!"

Naruto gasped at the speed Lightning used to charge at him she delivered a punch heading straight for his face he remembered that this was the same type of punch she gave him when they first met. Only difference this one seems to be pack with all of her strength which it was bad news for him he was truly lucky he wasn't fighting Tsunade one punch from her it was straight ticket to another village. Not that Lightning didn't hit harder than the slug sanin, but her punches still hurt remembering the one she gave him for thinking he hurt Serah. He dodged a couple of attacks more while Lightning was starting to get annoyed that all he was doing is evading her attacks.

"I knew it" she thought angrily.

"Uzumaki this isn't a dodge ball game you're supposed to fight your opponent" Rosh said.

"But she's fast she's really defending herself well, it's hard to land a blow when she's making sure not to leave herself open."

"Come on Naruto don't you dare hold back on her" Sasuke thought.

The blond jinchurikki another punch as he finally launched a fist of his own only to be dodged by Lightning using a somersault landing behind him he gasped as she used a roundhouse kick ready to send him to the ground. But he was quick he jumped landing next to her and launched another punch this time it was going to make contact because the pink haired cadet was wide open. Their eyes meet and suddenly he found himself unable to connect the attack his punch stopped inches from her face giving the chance for the Farron to strike back she kicked his chest he stumble at the attack.

"What are you doing Naruto?" shouted Sasuke.

"Come on Naruto!" shouted Aidan.

"Lightning don't let him beat you!" Janil was cheering for her friend.

Naruto managed to regain his balance he spotted the pink haired cadet charging at him delivering a punch that it packed enough strength to end the fight but he retaliated. He kept his eyes on the punch with a quick movement he grabbed her fist stopping her attack shocking her a lot because her attack was too fast for him to react in time to block it. The blond jinchurikki performed a throw sending Lightning to the ground she groaned from the fall the audience was in awe at his display to counter her attack including Rosh. Sasuke grinned at the sight while Aidan cheered and Janil was still cheering for the pink haired teen to get up and fight.

For a moment both teens were staring at each other eventually their eyes met with one solid gaze. His cerulean eyes meeting her icy blue orbs they looked like they could read into her soul he didn't wanted this to happen but he had no choice. Fighting the Farron was never in his best interest they were paired up to fight by mere coincidence at least the fight was over he have won over her, or so he thought. One minute is all that it took for Lightning to take control of the fight as she noticed he has let his guard down again just like in the survival exercise she quickly got up and perform a scissor grab throw grabbing the whiskered blond with her legs and sending him to the ground. She put one leg on his chest signaling him that she has won while everyone was shocked thinking that the blond had won for sure.

"It's over…."

"Cadet Farron is right this match is over she's the winner both of you did a good job" said Rosh.

Naruto sighed he had it coming for letting his guard down yet he didn't felt disappointed because he gave it his best at least that's what he was thinking. He saw that Lightning has taken off from the gym looking quite upset he got worried and started following her before he was stopped by Sasuke staring at him with a serious expression.

"Let go Sasuke."

"You could have beaten her, you should have cast off any personal feelings you have for her."

"Let me go now" the blond glared at him.

"Listen I think it's time that you asked yourself the big question."

"The big question….?"

"Why are you here?"

(Scene change)

"Lightning wait!"

The pink haired teen stopped walking hearing his voice it reminded her how annoying it is. She didn't turned to him because she was feeling angrier than before she knew that staring at him will make her snap and she will unleash her anger on him. She felt the whiskered blond behind her she will face him now since it would seem he wasn't going to let her go any minute.

"Lightning what's wrong you beat me?"

"No" her tone was cold.

"Yes you did."

"No you let me beat you!" she turned to him anger was clear in her eyes.

"I…."

"You could have beaten me since the match started you were dodging my attacks like they were nothing."

"You fought well I did my best-"

"You lie!" she shouted in anger.

"Lightning…."

"You were mocking me because you're stronger than me I told you not hold back and you still did…."

"I didn't want to hurt you" he said softly.

"It was a combat exercise one of us was going to get hurt eventually the risk has to be taken. You're always relying on your emotion that is not how a true soldier behaves get rid of any sympathy you have and focus only on the mission."

"You want me to be cold hearted?"

"This is a military academy we're here to become soldiers of Cocoon. Soldiers are weapons for battle tools for war its simple logic. You have done a horrible job since you got here you have failed in so many exercises like the maze target course you couldn't shoot that last target."

"Can you really go through with killing a little boy who is an l'Cie?"

"I would…."

"Just like that?" he was shocked at her answer.

"Target's a target Pulse is the enemy they attack Cocoon and we fight back until they are eliminated that's our mission this is what I have chosen to give Serah a good way of life."

"You're not the only one who wants to help Serah me and Sasuke we-"

"I didn't ask for your help!" she snapped" I didn't ask for no one's help I can do this on my own."

"I want to help you I promise I would!"

"How can you help me?" she got closer to him giving him a glare" when you can't even help yourself you're failing the training program you're not even soldier material you….are a failure."

Naruto felt shocked and hurt Lightning's tone was so full of venom it was enough to probably stab his heart and cut it into little pieces. He looked into her eyes they were ice cold showing no emotion just anger she was angry at him and her harsh words it sounded like she hated him. Her glare reminded him of the same glares the villagers from Konoha used to give him as part of the treatment for being a jinchurikki it brought back painful memories to the blond.

"Lightning….?"

"Why are you here?"

She has asked him the same question Sasuke did making him think" I want to help you and Serah…."

"Failing in every exercise of the program, making yourself look like a complete idiot in front of everyone and the director you're doing a good job so far you're no soldier you're not worthy of being one…."

She started walking before she stopped and gazed at him" go home Naruto you don't belong here."

(Time skip)

Naruto was standing in the maze course exercise he has decided to come here as a way to remember one of his failures in the academy. He felt like giving the exercise another try with having second thoughts if he was doing the right thing he hesitated to shoot the last target that boy l'Cie has been on his mind ever since. It was a weakness to show emotion in dire situation when he was a shinobi he never had the chance to take the decision of claiming a human life now this appears before him. He was weak for having a heart and feelings but being a soldier's means that he has to cast away those emotions and let go of sympathy and become a cold hearted tool for battle. Words came back to haunt him cold harsh words filled with truth they were all over his head.

"Do you want to continue falling behind me?"

"Better get stronger loser you don't want me and Lightning to get stronger than you?"

He growled as he unsheathed his gun blade he stood staring at the weapon he chose to become his weapon for life the Flashflare saber" this is my weapon it's mine…."

"My recommendation to you Uzumaki get better I don't want to fail you from the program."

"Why are you here?"

He remembered Sasuke's question" I'm here because I want to become a soldier…."

"How can you help me when you can't help yourself?"

"You're failing the training program you're no soldier material you…."

He clenched his fists as the word came back to hit him hard like a cold slap of reality.

"Are a failure…."

"I haven't been doing well I know that but I…."

"Why are you here?" this time Lightning asked him.

"I want to be a soldier…."

"That's not true!"

"Go home Naruto you don't belong here."

"I want to become a soldier I have friends in this new world and a family they're all precious to me and this world I want to protect everyone I want to protect them all I want to become strong for them that's why I want to become a soldier!"

His eyes were now burning with a fire of passion and determination he gazed at the entrance of the maze before looking back to his weapon remembering Rosh's words of mastering a gun blade.

"They key to mastering a gun blade is not how fast you can take out the enemy with it, it's how fast you can change it from its saber mode to its weapon mode. You learn that and you will be a gun blade master."

Naruto charged entering the entrance and as the targets appeared he slashed them with his gun blade he quickly changed to its gun mode firing the further targets ahead he was too determined to fulfill the exercise. His speed was impressive the more targets appeared he slashed them away while others were blasted by his bullets before he knew it he was done every single target was destroyed. When he went to the control panel of the course to check his time his eyes widened not believing it was true.

"Fifteen seconds….that can't be I broke director Rosh's record I guess practice makes perfect."

He wanted to be fair and do it again this time in front of all the cadets and the military director so he deleted it he will make his time tomorrow. While he was still working on the controls he didn't realized that he was being watched in the entrance stood a figure. A pair of icy blue eyes was staring at him and has witnessed his performance at the maze the person's lips formed into a small smile before the person left.

(Time skip the next day)

Everyone in the maze course had their mouths wide open along with their widened eyes. They have witnessed something incredible as they saw Naruto taking out all of the targets and finishing the course at quick speed to some it was impossible to see. They all thought the whiskered blond was nothing but a loser that was destined to fail the academy but looks like they have been proven wrong. Among the group of cadets stood Sasuke who was grinning while Janil and so did Aidan Lightning had her usual serious expression. Rosh was staring at the controls in shocked looking at the blond cadet's time for finishing the course.

"Twenty two seconds that's only two seconds behind my record he actually did it…."

"Did you see that?" asked Janil in awe.

"I sure did damn Naruto beat everyone's time except the director" replied Aidan.

The Uchiha chuckled staring at Lightning remembering what he told her" it worked didn't it?"

"It did never thought reverse psychology will worked on him" she gave a small smile remembering her words to him.

"I figured it will be enough to wake him up looks like you did a good job."

"I did…." for a moment her eyes softened at the way she treated the blond teen.

Rosh went to the blond" congratulations cadet Uzumaki it seems I have underestimate you, you have done a great job in getting the top time limit next to my record."

"Thanks sir this is only the beginning I promise you I will do better at everything from now on."

"I hope you're right."

(Scene change)

"Lightning!"

The Farron turned to him as he walked to her at the hall ways of the academy" what….?"

The whiskered blond was smiling at her" thanks."

"For what….?"

"For helping me yesterday what you said to me really left me thinking."

"What makes you think I did it to help you?"

"Because I figured out that you said those words to me so that I open my eyes to the truth that I was really being a horrible cadet and I was really screwing up in the training."

"He can be smart sometimes…."

"You needed a reality check…."

He was still smiling" I guess that means you really care after all."

"I don't….Serah she's fond of you and Sasuke I did it for only her."

"You don't have to pretend that you don't care because I know you do thanks for the help."

"Fine then let's make this even…."

"Even….?"

"I helped you now you have to help me with something."

"Okay I will help you with anything you need believe it!"

Lightning nodded" teach me….."

"Huh?"

"Teach me to become strong."

The blond blinked understanding her" you want me to train you?"

"I know you're stronger than you look I need more training aside from the one of the academy you're the one who can help me through this."

"Are you sure you want me you can ask Sasuke you know?"

"I'm asking you….problem?"

"No problem not at all it's just that I wasn't expecting you to ask me such a request I….I don't know."

"I'll go on a date with you."

"Deal!"

They shook heads while Naruto was grinning happy that he will finally go on a date with the pink haired teen.

"Welcome aboard Lightning."

"Don't let me down."

"I won't trust me!"

To be continued

Here's a long chapter for everyone to enjoy once again thank you to everyone who is reviewing and the ones marking this story on your fav list and story alert list. This chapter was the beginning of Naruto becoming a better person and a stronger cadet that will lead to his transformation as a soldier I hope you like the development I made for him. I was happy to make Lightning use reverse psychology on him I figure that saying cold words to him will be more effective than positive ones and besides I'm sure that's not Lightning's style anyway. Next chapter another time skip and finally I'm going to move the plot of the story a bit so expect to see more characters making their debut. Keep voting on the poll and keep guessing who will be Sasuke's pairing. Thank you I will see you all next time.

Next time: Graduation