Legend of the Defiers Chapter 12: Birthday gone wrong, a Naruto + Final Fantasy XIII Crossover fanfic

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and FFXIII it's the rightful property of Kishimoto-san and square enix can't forget character designer Tetsuya Nomura.

Italics means thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

** Communications by radio or cell phones

Chapter 12 Birthday gone wrong

(Time skip: the next day)

(Location: seaside city region upper Bodhum Cocoon)

Naruto was heading to Lightning's house with a smile on his face holding a big white box. Today was finally the day that they were celebrating the pink haired woman's twenty first birthday and it was one of those where the blond was very happy to celebrate. Every year he has come to enjoy and like celebrating the older Farron's birthday it was among his favorite days remembering how much fun he had celebrating it especially when she will smile more often during that particular day. It made him smiled all the birthday's he had been to regarding her and he has promised himself that today's birthday will be the best one ever of course he was coming to the Farron residence to start with the surprise party since Lightning hasn't arrived yet.

Knowing the pink haired soldier she'd probably left to GC headquarters to pick up some documents because she hasn't done her paper work in a while. The blond jicnhurikki gave a sigh there was no need for her to be doing any kind of work because she asked to have the day off due to her birthday and Amodar probably sighed and gave her the speech that she didn't had to come to work today. He could all imagined it making him chuckle she was the dedicated to her work but today she was earning a nice long rest and celebration. His thoughts were suddenly drifted to last night at the fireworks festival when they went to Lebreau's bar and talk Sasuke was happy talking to everyone even if he didn't show it.

It felt like old times as they talked with the exception that Lightning was absent she left because she was tired but he knew the truth, anyone could have seen that she didn't wanted to be with Snow. They talked, laugh and had a few drinks it was good having the Uchiha back. But his stay was short once he revealed that he was only staying for one day he was returning to Eden they didn't took the news well especially Serah. The younger Farron wasn't happy just recently having him back and all of the sudden he was leaving once more at least they were able to enjoy the moment while it lasted. Hopefully he will return and visit them and maybe this time his stay won't be so short like last time.

Taking a corner that will lead him to Lightning's house he saw that there was a barricade closing a street that will lead further inside the city. Reading the sing whitened it said that road close it had the PSICOM initials as well as the emblem of the Sanctum he saw it weird why they haven't remove them because the festival was over. Thinking about it he noticed that there were less people walking the streets than usual a lot of people will fall asleep very late because of the festival but he still saw it weird for seeing the city kind of empty. He stopped walking still holding the white box a military branch like PSICOM would never leave barricades unless they were order to leave them where they are, the question he asked himself why.

"I have a bad feeling about this" he felt his stomach turned and it wasn't because he was hungry.

The blond jinchurikki resumed his walking but the bad feeling never escaped it was still there. Minutes later he arrived at Lightning's house which it had the shape of a peanut he remembered telling the older Farron about it and she agreed before telling him a "house is a house" statement. Truth be told he agreed after all she bought it with the money he gave her long ago so it didn't bothered her the shape of it. Entering the house he walked the halls ready to put box on the table when he saw Snow walking to him giving him the symbol not to say a word.

"What….?"

"Shh Serah is at the kitchen you better hide it before she-"

"Before what?"

The two men turned to see Serah looking serious with her hands on her hip now her expression was similar to Lightning when she was giving one of her usual serious expressions. Times like this reminded both of them how much the younger Farron can resemble her older sister there was no running away or backing down, they have been caught. Naruto just gave a silly grin putting the box on the table and thought of a million things to explain to the pink haired teen mostly they were excuses and lies.

"Looks like I'm early for the birthday party eh…."

"I started making the food" the younger Farron was eyeing the white box the whiskered blond has put on the table.

"I am early then that's cool I can help you guys."

"Hmm….Naruto there better not be a cake inside that box" Serah has warned him.

"Um….a cake well I-"

The younger Farron was about to open it but he stopped her" okay there's a cake in there!"

"Why I'm baking a cake?" she fumed.

"That's what I'm afraid of" he muttered.

"What?" her right eye twitched with annoyance.

"Nothing I….I didn't know you were baking Lightning's birthday cake honest" he was truly being a liar in the topic.

"You see Naruto I told you this wasn't going to work Serah has taken the responsibility to bake the cake, there was no need for you to waste gil buying one" Snow was obviously supporting his fiancée.

"Yes and just it happens it's done" Serah proudly walked to the kitchen and putting the safety mittens opened the oven taking out a golden colored cake.

"Wow that looks nice Serah" the NORA leader was impressed.

"I know you will like it."

"How about giving Snow a piece?" sweat dropped Nauto.

"I can't this is sis's cake it's her birthday she's the one who gets to have the first piece."

"But Snow is your fiancée and Lightning is not here what do you say?"

"I don't mind taking a piece it looks very good" replied the tall blond.

"Well….okay I guess I can give you a small piece."

She cut a small piece with a knife giving it to the NORA as a free sample it was all doing good. Snow started chewing the piece until he stopped his taste bud hit rock bottom the flavor wasn't quite what he expected. His face turned green he felt a little sick to his stomach while Naruto was still watching a huge sweat dropped at the whole sight.

"Snow what's wrong?" Serah asked worried of her fiancée.

"Help me…." was his only replied?

"This is why I bought the cake" thought the Uzumaki yup he knew the truth that the Farron sisters were good at cooking but terrible at baking.

"Okay Snow lie down and have a glass of water the taste should be over within the first ten minutes."

"The cake taste bad doesn't it?" the younger Farron was disappointed in her baking abilities she hasn't changed since she was little.

"It's okay Serah it's the thought that counts I'll be fine" said Snow.

"By Eden this cake tastes bad…."

"Well since your cake is not qualify to be Lightning's birthday cake we'll have to go for the one I bought" the blond jinchurikki smiled happily.

Serah's reaction to his comment she took some of the frosty she has stored from a small bowl for her cake and threw it back at the blond it hit him square on his face. The blond jinchurikki wasn't offended by the act he just smiled and took frosty tasting it he really like it now if only her cake tasted as good as the frosty. While he was enjoying himself with the sweet treat the younger Farron was fuming she was supposed to teach him a lesson for making such a rude comment about her cake yup sometimes she will act like a spoiled kid in front of Naruto. She did saw him as an older brother so she saw it very normal to behaved like that because that's how siblings will act around each other.

Snow was feeling a bit better after tasting his fiancées bad cake he gave a chuckle at her behavior with the Uzumaki. It looked how much they were a family the thought made him smile he suddenly got a vision it was wishful thinking from his part to have his own happy family. He never knew his parents so he was an orphan just like the whiskered blond and he would desire to have the family he never had. Gazing at his fiancée he blushed thinking in the future his wish will be granted a smile spread on his lips the younger Farron was still not happy for Naruto using a cake he bought to replace her "not so good" cake. The thoughts of the NORA leader were dispelled by something that has been bothering him since the beginning of this day.

Like the whiskered blond he had a bad feeling that something was not right he has noticed before arriving to the Farron's house. A terrible feeling in his gut was bothering him telling him something was off about today, it was the same in the case of the Uzumaki. Both we're in the same boat when it came to bad feelings it didn't felt right and although they wanted to enjoy today's birthday celebration they couldn't shake the feeling no matter they thought about other things. The feeling was too strong to be something to be recalled as his mind playing tricks on him, he gazed over the blond soldier wanting to get it off his chest.

"Hey Naruto….?"

The Uzumaki has cleaned up his face with the frosty turning over to the tall blond" hmm….?"

"Did you notice the city today?"

"You mean being very quiet and the streets being a little empty than usual?"

"Yeah I can't help it that something is not right…."

"I hear you."

"I hope it doesn't have anything to do with PSICOM's investigation at the Vestige from last night…."

"Let's not worry about that we still have more things to do. Snow you have to continued helping me with the final preparations" said Serah.

"Right I said I was going to help you with everything."

"And while you two are taking care of that I'm going outside to wait for the birthday girl, we have to make sure we surprise her" Naruto grinned leaving.

"Come on slowpoke let's finish here."

He nodded" are you sure you're going to be all right with this?"

The younger Farron knew what he was talking about" it's okay I have made up my mind I will tell Lightning today I'm not going to keep this hidden from her anymore. Last night wishing on the fireworks has given my strength to go through with this and with your support I know I can do it."

"No matter what happens I will stay by your side I'd made a promise to you."

The pink haired girl nodded holding his hand with a smile" I know thank you…."

(Scene change)

(Location: PSICOM headquarters main district Eden)

Sasuke walked the halls of the building with a calm expression on his face even if the Sanctum was facing a real crisis as he was heading to Naabat's office he knew the danger that was threatening them. The Uchiha was informed by the PSICOM lieutenant of the conclusion of Rosh's investigation at the Vestige last night the results were not in favor of the people of Cocoon. The existence of a Pulse Fal'Cie inside of the ancient ruins was a huge threat to the people around it, in this case the people of Bodhum. So many questions were running in his head like how it ended up there, why was it there in the first place. Being from a Pulse it was obviously taken from the lower world but why it made some sense to how Fang and her friend woke up from crystal if the Vestige was of Pulse origin.

Now he knew Dahj's focus to detect entities from Pulse was true Naabat was correct after all, which meant he won't become crystal until he detects everything of the lower world meaning the two l'Cie that woken from their crystal slumber. He wasn't worried about that Fang was safe with Raines in the Cavalry but Vanille was still out there she was in danger, he needed to find her before things gets worse. The outcome of the Fal'Cie in the Vestige being from Pulse the Sanctum isn't going to stay in the sidelines doing nothing they are going to use extreme measures to handle this matter and he knew what it was going to be. Primarch has already heard Eden's decision on the case a lot was going to happen his eyes hardened thinking of the outcome of it all.

In his hand he was holding a file with some documents that he has already filled before coming to headquarters it was part of the decision he has made. So many people we're in danger even those he considered to be his new family clearly he didn't approved of the solution the Sanctum has made in regards with the Pulse Fal'Cie discovery at the Vestige. The last part fueled his determination even more to go through with this he reached the doors to the lieutenant's office and knocked one time, hearing a voice command the doors slid automatically as he entered the office. Naabat was standing with her back turned when she knew who has come to visit her she turned smiling at the raven haired soldier.

"Sasuke you're a little early than usual…."

"I would like to speak to you lieutenant."

"Nothing to worry about last night's investigation will be handled with a lot of precaution his Eminence has spoken. The people of Bodhum can no longer live among us and the rest of the Cocoon population now that the possibilities of being exposed to the Pulse Fal'Cie are very high they are going to be move from their current location."

"I know taking action immediately is mandatory…."

"You didn't come to me to know the status of the Purge colonel Rosh is in charge of the operation. He will make sure that Bodhum's inhabitants as well as the Vestige is placed in their rightful destination, those affected by the Fal'Cie will be move to the lower world it is the only way."

"We both know that's not how it's going to be" his gaze at her was serious and probably one which will hide anger.

Naabata wasn't intimidated by the Uchiha's stare she adjusted her glasses" true, very true. The ones who becomes Pulse trash must be send to a trash bin they're no longer clean and approvable beings."

"That's how she sees humans….?"

"Is there a reason why you have come to me?" she smiled never minding his company.

Sasuke showed her the file folder with the papers" your signature is required to sing these documents, I already filled them…."

The PSICOM lieutenant took the file opening she carefully looked at the papers when her eyes widened. She looked back at them then at the Uchiha, and back again she did it for three times. It's like she was in a big shock her hands were shaking a little and her eyes were on the raven haired soldier they were filled with different emotions like disbelief and hurt. Yet Sasuke remained calm and quiet awaiting her reaction and hoping that she will sing the papers.

"What is this?" the shock was evident in her voice.

"….."

"Resignation forms….Sasuke why?"

"A soldier's life doesn't suits me…."

"Is that it….?" No she didn't believe him.

"Pretty much…."

"When you graduated from the military academy you were so proud to have chosen PSICOM and to be under my command. For you to change your mind now I don't find your reason for leaving an honest justification."

"I've made up my mind I quit…."

"Why don't you tell me the real reason why you're leaving?"

The Uchiha stood in thought it was just as he thought it's not going to be easy to convince Naabat his reason to quit the military. It was no wonder why she was the commander of PSICOM she was really clever and cold hearted when she has to and right now she was being smart and stubborn. She was planning in letting him go without hearing the real motive for his resignation and he does chooses to tell her then she won't let him go, he remained calm. Too much thinking let his guard down not noticing that the lieutenant has moved from her desk and got closer to him there was concern in her blue eyes.

"You're one of our best soldiers in the force it's hard for me to let you go" it was the truth but there was also another reason why she couldn't let him go.

"Hn…."

"Tell me the reason why you want to leave?"

"I have friends and a family waiting for me, I've been apart from them for too long. I appreciate being part of PSICOM but it's time for me to return. This time I'm planning in staying for good no matter what you tell me it won't change my mind, give up while you still can."

"If that's what you want all you have to do is ask. I would have given you a vacation so you could spend time with your friends if that's the reason then I'm fine with it. There is no need for you to leave now."

"This isn't going as planned" Sasuke was now getting irritated with the way things were going.

Naabat smiled walking to her desk taking the resignation documents" I will threw these in the trash we solve this matter, you're not leaving and-"

"Lieutenant colonel Naabat mam" his tone was deadly serious it made the woman turned to him in shocked.

"Sasuke….?"

"I'm leaving PSICOM whether you like it or not, my family is in Bodhum the city that is going to be Purge by the Sanctum I won't let anything happen to them and all those people that are going to be condemn for something they were unaware off. Either you sing those papers and let me go or I can't guarantee what will happen if you don't…."

"You're threatening me?" she remained firm and calm even if her heart was beating too fast because of the tension, on the inside she was afraid.

"It's a warning now choose…."

"I see" she has quickly pressed a button underneath her desk functioning as a homing signal.

Sasuke looked behind after hearing the door opening two PSICOM predators emerged. One holding an automatic rifle and the other a bazooka the raven haired soldier knew where this was going.

"Lieutenant Naabta what's wrong?"

"We received your signal as soon as you activated…."

They didn't have the chance to say another word as the Uchiha has activated his sharingan and has vanished appearing in front of them. He was too fast for the soldiers he kicked them hard sending them flying outside of the office he grabbed the automatic rifle and pointed it at the PSICOM lieutenant.

"You made the move to kill me a little early than expected."

"If you're choosing to betray me then you leave me no choice but to take you out."

"Betray you….?" He chuckle at her remark" all I want is for you to sing those paper so I can go you're the one who chose to take me out of the picture. I have come to known you quite well lieutenant Naabat you don't like to lose it's either your victory or no one else's."

"Are you going to shoot me Sasuke?" she didn't showed no fear facing him.

"Can't have you sign those papers if you're dead right?"

"You're wasting your time I won't sign them, your justification is not enough to convince me."

The Uchiha glared as his index finger reached the trigger of the rifle" you die you lose, that's not what you want lieutenant…."

"Go ahead and pull the trigger I'm not letting you go, you're an important asset to PSICOM."

"PSICOM can rot in hell for all I care you look so calm and relax not realizing what it's about to take place in Bodhum. It doesn't bother you how many lives are going to be wasted this is how a true high ranking officer of the Sanctum behaves, all heartless."

"You're one to talk Sasuke your eyes say too much you're heartless. You move with no fear and hesitation you could have kill those soldiers that entered just now but you didn't."

"Killing anyone from the Sanctum isn't in my interest….for now."

He took a pen in her desk and hand it to her" sing them now…."

Glaring at him she took the pen and the documents she singed them where her signature was required and hand it back to him" it's done…."

"I appreciate it that wasn't so hard was it?"

"What are you planning to do?"

"You heard me I'm going to Bodhum and help my family and the citizens caught in this nightmare your twisted government has created."

"You won't get away with this if you choose to defy the Sanctum you'll be hunted down with no remorse. Make no mistake Sasuke those who are enemies of the Sanctum whether they're from Pulse or Cocoon there will be shown no mercy."

"A traitor for saving innocent people what a great fitting for someone like me, by the way what you said of me being heartless you're right. I am heartless but at least I have some humanity in me…."

"Don't do this…."

"My mind's made up your or anyone from the military won't change my mind."

She lowered her gaze only for a moment but she stared back at him" don't leave me…."

"Your day dreaming ends here I told you I'm not interested in you that way sorry."

"There's someone else?"

"No..." although he hesitated for a moment.

"It took you a while to answer my question" she felt angry because she could tell that he was lying.

He ignored her and started walking out leaving the office but he stopped looking back at her" word of warning lieutenant, if you call for any reinforcements I will kill them all."

"I'm not that foolish to try I'm aware of your skills, however…."

She walked up to him and removed her glasses but Sasuke pointed the rifle at her not trusting her, she can be very sneaky.

"Don't make me shoot you."

"To think I was going to put you in charge of the Purge operation."

"In charge of murder no thanks."

She got closer to him but he stopped her" don't come any closer."

"Get it over with then, I'll make sure you remember me by…."

He never saw it coming he was too shocked to let her get so close to him but it happened, the least thing that will happen today. To think he let his guard down for a second and the consequences for doing so were sever, at least that's what he thought. Too shocked to realize what just happened or how it came to this but it was too late.

Naabat has just kissed him.

(Scene change)

Sasuke has left PSICOM headquarters heading into the streets of the Cocoon capital he knew very well the moment he left the building he was now an enemy of the Sanctum. He didn't had time to waste he needed to prepare his gear and head out for Bodhum, but he knew he won't make it in time. The journey from Eden to Bodhum will take at least three hours and by then it will be too late PSICOM would have taken the entire population to their destination. Running without stopping he never noticed he was being watched from high up in the sky stood the same silver owl watching over him, someone else knew what he was planning and where he was heading.

(Scene change)

(Location: local inn upper Bodhum region)

Hope was finishing packing they have finally ended their vacation today and now they were planning in returning back to their home in Palumpolum. He was happy he has really enjoyed the vacation with his mother even better that his father didn't join them at the fireworks festival he didn't wanted to think about the older Einstein. He couldn't wait to arrive to his home he was a bit home sick the only thing that will make him even happier if he was reunited with his friends from elementary school. Wishful thinking knowing that they were far away from his reach, the silver haired teen packed the remaining clothing into his bag. Remembering what his mother told him last night when it came to finding a girl he completely ignored it he wasn't ready for any of that, at least not yet.

Once he was done packing he took his bag and left the room where he was staying. He met up with Nora who was almost done with her packing staring at him he remembered what she told him regarding their father. She has known him for years and of course he knew she cared for her husband but that's not how he saw it he has always missed out on a lot of their time, or the times when he needed his father's love. The older Einstein wasn't a good father in the teen's point of view he believed he didn't care a lot for any of them it's like his family meant nothing to him and here was his mother who was always supporting and caring yet he didn't bothered to show up and spend one night with them. All the thinking was upsetting him so he went to the older woman who was by now done packing.

"Ready to go Hope?" she smiled.

"Yeah I'm done this was a great vacation."

"It sure it was how about if we return to Bodhum next year?"

"You bet I really want to see the fireworks again."

"That makes two of us."

They took their bags and left the room Nora took the key card and locked the front door they started heading to the elevator and before they knew it the double doors opened. They were shocked by the sight of a large group of PSICOM soldiers pointing their rifles at them Hope reacted in fear as he stumble backwards dropping his bag.

"Mom!"

"What's going on?" asked the older woman.

"Freeze!"

"Don't move!"

"Take them back to the first floor we'll take the rest of the people staying in this floor."

"What are you doing we haven't done anything?" Nora kept her calm.

"Mom what's going on?"

"You're all under risk for quarantine of possible Pulse influence" replied one of the soldiers.

"What?" asked the disbelief Hope?

"There must be some kind of mistake here…."

"No mistake you're all probably infected by the Pulse Fal'Cie's power."

"Pulse Fal'Cie what are you talking about?" shouted the silver haired teen.

"Get them out of here."

"Wait!"

Two soldiers took the Einstein mother and son into the elevator to the first floor while the rest of the soldier stayed behind. They started destroying the electronic doors of all of the rooms arresting any civilian they saw soon they apprehended a large number of men, women and children. Every single person was as scared as Hope trembling while the children we're all crying yet the PSICOM soldiers didn't explained their actions they just resumed with getting them to the bottom floor. The rest of the other floors followed they were all taken including the employees that work at the inn no one was safe, every single person from the place was taken by PSICOM. The inn wasn't the only place where people we're going to be taken, it was just the beginning of things to come.

(Scene change)

(Location: Lightning's house seaside city region)

"This isn't necessary."

Lightning has arrived to her house after returning from Guardian Corps headquarters, Naruto has received her with blindfolding her as a way to surprise her for her birthday. She knew there was no need to she was well aware of today but the whiskered blond had to defer about it he really wanted to do this, she eventually gave in and went with the whole thing. Probably because he was that dear to her that she couldn't say no to him her mind went back with what happened when she left HQ after speaking to Amodar. The GC lieutenant was acting strange he was serious but something was bothering him she had a feeling it had to do with the investigation at the Vestige that PSICOM did last night. He warned her to stay out of their business that it will only bring her grief, it made her wonder.

It crossed her mind that the military branch may have found something inside the Vestige but she wasn't sure of it, she didn't know if the investigation had something to do with what happened at the Euride energy plant. Whatever it was it must be something big to make PSICOM hid information from the citizen and make her superior looked awfully concerned. She gave a sigh feeling that Naruto was leading her into her house she was still blindfolded why she agreed to do this in the first place. For now she was going to enjoy whatever birthday party they had set for her and deep inside she was looking forward to it, happy to celebrate another birthday with her family.

"You're going to like this" Naruto smiled leading her to the dining room.

"I already know it's my birthday, it's not a surprise anymore" she gave a small grin for telling him the truth.

"No matter you're still going to like it, okay we're here."

The blond jinchurikki removed the blindfold letting the older Farron see in front of her.

"Surprise!"

She smiled seeing the table filled with all kinds of food namely vegetables and all kinds of nutrient foods, there was also a box in a wrapping gift paper obviously it was her birthday gift. Serah was smiling it made her feel happy that her sister will bothered herself with preparing the celebration but she figured out she didn't do it alone she knew Naruto helped her, but then again maybe he didn't. She saw Snow standing next to her sister who made her frowned not wanting to see his face especially in her birthday but of course Serah has to bring him because he was her boyfriend. For now she will try to enjoy the supposed birthday party without thinking of punching the NORA leader square in the face.

"Surprise sis we've been waiting for you" said Serah.

"We planned the entire thing just for you" replied Naruto.

"Thanks you're all here….and Snow" she frowned at his presence.

"Hey Lightning" he sweat dropped at the expression she was giving him.

"Where's Sasuke?" asked the pink haired soldier.

Serah lowered her head knowing that the Uchiha wasn't coming to the party while the Uzumaki sighed at his friend's absence. He wasn't happy that he couldn't be here these people we're more than just friends to them but like family and for him not to be here it made him angry. Last night they talked and even if he told him that he couldn't attend Lightning's birthday he was still unhappy about his decision, he saw it as something obligatory for him to be present at.

"He can't come he's busy…."

"And he better has a good excuse for not coming."

"PSICOM's life is not easy" replied the older Farron understanding why their other family member couldn't come.

"Anyway Lightning come on and check everything out, we prepared everything for the birthday girl" the whiskered blond went to the blond and sweat dropped seeing the cake he bought was still inside the box.

"Serah what gives you should have taken the cake out of the box?"

"I forgot" the younger Farron was obviously being sarcastic.

"She's still upset about her cake tasting like poison."

"No biggie I'll do it I bought this cake for you Lightning hope you like it."

The older Farron rolled her eyes although she liked the whole thing, with the exception of Snow being here. Yep she will be grateful if he would just vanish and the she would truly enjoy her birthday party. She saw as Naruto opened the box and carefully took the cake out revealing a long rectangular shape cake with white frosty and red frosty on the sides. It was written in blue frosty letters "Happy Birthday Lightning Farron" and there was also a number with her current age today which made her sweat dropped.

"Um….Naruto there's only a two on the cake" Serah noticed the lone number standing on the top.

"The one is missing buddy" Snow followed because it's supposed to have the number twenty one.

"Oh yeah about that….I kind of forgot to be put the one in there but no problem" the blond jinchurikki finished with a sweat dropped.

"I'm turning two today yippee" said the older Farron she was obviously being sarcastic.

"You are enjoying yourself if you're being sarcastic come on everyone let's sing-"

"We're not singing…."

"Right we have never singed in your birthday's you don't like it okay how about making a wish by blowing the candle?"

"I'm not doing that…."

"Oh then maybe we should skip to eat the cake if you agreed Serah" the Uzumaki sweat dropped again hoping she wasn't going to get angry with his decision.

"It's okay Naruto but there is something I would like to say to my sister" the younger Farron was staring at Lightning ready to finally revealed the truth to her.

She smiled when she felt Snow holding her hand for support like giving him her strength that he was with her on this no matter what. She remembered his promise at the fireworks festival he was with her until the end it was enough to give her the strength and the courage to go through with this and tell her for good. The younger Farron faced her older sister who was paying attention to her not liking how the NORA leader was holding her hand while Naruto who was next to the GC sergeant was paying attention too. She wasn't going to wait until time is up without telling her the fate she has been given as her older sister she had the right to know.

"First I should tell you happy birthday" she smiled feeling silly that she hasn't said it yet.

"Sis I want you to know that I love you and that I am grateful that you have done for me and everything to keep us together, to keep this family together I am happy…."

She saw the older Farron giving a small smile yes it reflected the joy she was feeling like she wanted to hear that, everything was working out so far. She turned her gaze towards Naruto the blond was smiling brightly maybe because he knew how much it means to Lightning to hear those words from her everything she was saying came from her heart. She probably wasn't going to get another chance like this she was making sure that every word counts at this time she was trying so hard not to shed any tears this was hard for her than it already is.

"Lightning I have something important to tell you it happened to me a couple of days ago so please don't get angry for keeping this to you for so long…."

The older Farron looked curious but her eyes reflected concerned she was worried if anything happened to her while Naruto seemed to be showing the same expression. What worried them was that Serah's tone was so sincere and full of hurt what could she be hiding that showed her eyes filled with sorrow.

"This happened to me and now I can't fulfill my dreams, I can't go to the Eden University and become a teacher with the burden I'm carrying I'm a danger to us all. I'm sorry but I can't be with you guys anymore."

"Serah….?" Naruto felt heartbroken seeing her expression and her words.

"What happened?" Lightning gazed at her seriously but her eyes were still full of concern.

No matter how hard she tried some tears have made their ways falling while Snow tightened his hold on her hand" sis, Naruto I….I was picked."

"What?" asked the Uzumaki.

"Explain" replied the older Farron.

The pink haired teen nodded deciding to give her explanation through action than words. She reached for the bandage in her left arm and removed it finally she was showing her mark to two of her important people in her life, and their reactions say it all. Naruto's eyes widened in shock recognizing the mark on her arm while Lightning stood in deep thought she wasn't shock like the whiskered blond, she felt like something was wrong or odd it was a bit confusing.

"I have been branded by Pulse I am now an l'Cie an enemy of Cocoon…."

"No way it can't be Serah a Pulse l'Cie this is not possible" thought the shocked Naruto.

"I don't want to run away from this fate placed on me, I want to stay with all of you whatever happens I want to face it with my friends."

"I won't leave you" Snow said holding her.

"Serah what's your focus?" the Uzumaki quickly asked.

"My focus….?"

"If you're an l'Cie you must have a focus do you know what it is?"

The younger Farron lowered her head in thought she didn't know her focus but she obviously thought as a Pulse l'Cie her focus must be the destruction of Cocoon. She remembered when she was branded by the Fal'Cie she witnessed a dream that it felt quite real. She was back at the Vestige and she was looking at everyone staring down at her. She saw her sister, Snow, Naruto, Sasuke, Vanille and two other people she didn't recognized a silver haired teen and a dark skinned older man.

"I…."

"It wasn't anything related with destroy Cocoon right?" asked the worried Naruto.

"Whatever her focus is I will make sure she fulfills it, I made her a promise" replied the NORA leader.

"Thank you Lightning I want to stay here with all of you and Snow is not going to abandon me. He proposed to me and I said yes I want to marry him."

This made the older Farron glared now she finally realized what was going on it made sense to her. Serah knew she didn't like Snow since she first met him and she would never approve of him being her boyfriend, much less her fiancée. So what could she do to make it possible for her to agree of her marriage to the NORA leader come up with a great reason to make it happen? Becoming a l'Cie and just like that the blond will asked her to marry him, no it wasn't a coincidence to the pink haired soldier. Her eyes turned to her l'Cie mark she had to give her credit for creating an exact copy of the Pulse Fal'Cie brand she admitted this was a good plan to marry Snow without having her to get angry at her. She felt hurt but she wasn't going to let this go without telling her how she feels of this she couldn't believe she would choose the day of her birthday to tell her such bull crap.

Naruto has been speechless the entire time so many things have happened. First he finds out that Serah has been marked as a Pulse l'Cie and now he finds out that Snow has proposed to her. He should be happy at the news of course he would love to see the younger Farron getting marry to the man she loves and be happy with him but he couldn't after hearing about the first part. Looking at Lightning he more worried she wasn't shocked or hurt she looked angry and he could already feel the tension rising in the air. It wasn't a good sign this was going to turn bad knowing that the GC sergeant didn't like the idea of her younger sister marrying Snow she would never approve of this.

Snow saw her reaction and it had bad news all over it he was preparing for the worst. That she will snapped at him and beat him up for proposing to her sister especially when she didn't like him one bit. But he was ready to face her reaction and punishment her glare wasn't going to change his mind he made up his decision to proposed to Serah and stay by her side until the end, he was hers forever. No one alive was going to change that he was planning of being with her l'Cie or not.

Serah was worried, nervous and scared at her sister's expression. It wasn't what she was quite expecting why would she looked upset she understood if it was about Snow proposing to her but the l'Cie part. She tried to remain calm today is supposed to be a happy day Lightning's birthday yet she felt like she wanted to hide behind her fiancée and tremble. Her sister's eyes were on her and they looked like she was disappointed in her too many emotions were in them, hurt and betrayal among them.

Lightning chuckle without a hint of amusement" because of this you can't go to the university yet you accepted his proposal…."

The pink haired soldier got seated on the table feeling like the victim of a bad joke she wasn't happy" you became an l'Cie, so now you want to marry this idiot and you think I'm going to buy that full points of originality?"

"What Lightning?" Naruto turned to her shocked at her comment.

She got up staring at her sister with the purpose to scare her away from Snow's marriage proposal" but don't forget if you really are an l'Cie, it's my job to take care of you…."

The blond jicnhurikki was horrified at her response" you don't mean that?"

"Sis…." The younger Farron was speechless she never thought she would hear from that from her older sister.

The GC sergeant snorted at her birthday celebration" this is ridiculous worst birthday ever."

That was the final stake at Serah's heart to hurt her feelings badly. It wasn't enough that her sister didn't accepted her engagement with Snow, or that she has threatened her if she really was an l'Cie but it was the fact that she didn't like her birthday celebration. After everything she went through to prepare the meals and even the cake which it was bad in taste but she put a lot of effort in making. Lightning didn't like it she hated it, it felt like everything she does to please her was for nothing now her older sister hated her. The pink haired teen couldn't take it anymore before more tears formed in her eyes she left the dining room running and eventually out of the house.

"Serah!" shouted Naruto.

"Wait Serah!" Snow followed but it was already too late she was gone.

The NORA leader was upset turning to the pink haired soldier" why won't you believe her?"

"You kidding me she gets made an l'Cie and you pop the question?"

He slammed his fists on the table" Lightning stop it!"

She followed him slamming her hands on the table" no you stop it get out of my house!"

"You're shutting her out she's your sister!"

The older Farron just crossed her arms in a stubborn way and turned the other way not wanting to look at his face while Naruto was still shocked at everything that just happened, namely that Lightning didn't believed her own sister.

Snow finally gave up he wasn't going to win in argument" fine, I'll do it I'll protect her."

He left leaving her and Naruto alone the blond jinchurikki was still trying to put everything together to make sure this has really happened. First Serah reveals that she has become a Pulse l'Cie, then she gets engaged to Snow, third Lightning didn't believe her and finally she shunned her out like she didn't care for her. He put a hand to his forehead and gave a sigh calming down trying to keep his cool this day has become so complicated and the irony that it all happened on Lightning's birthday.

"Why?" he finally replied.

"Don't you think it's a coincidence that she has to tell me she's an l'Cie now when Snow proposed to her what an excuse?"

"Serah would never make something this serious up she's not that kind of person."

"All right then she left for Pulse and there a Fal'Cie marked her?"

"Don't be sarcastic I understand your point but you saw her arm. That's the same mark we were taught at the academy that is a Pulse Fal'Cie mark."

"She obviously got it from a shop of the sort, probably a tattoo. She's willing to go that far to make me believe her so I can accept her engagement with that idiot."

"Stop being so stubborn asked yourself Lightning has Serah ever lie to you?"

"Then why she would choose my birthday to tell me this she took the worst day to tell me?"

"What if it is true what if she's really an l'Cie would you hunt her down like you said?"

Lightning has finally had enough she glared at the blond" I have had it with you Naruto you're not supporting me here, you're taking Snow's side he's your buddy."

"You're not listening to me..."

"No you're not the one listening to me. It's time for you to choose me or Snow?"

"Don't do this again Lightning."

"Choose right now if you're really my friend then you will choose me."

"I told you I would never do that you're all important to me!"

"That's your choice then our friendship is over."

"What….?"

"We're not friends anymore."

"You don't mean that."

"Get out your not welcome to my house anymore."

"Lightning…."

"I said get out!"

Naruto knew he wasn't going to win this argument Lightning was too angry to listen to reason right now. He felt the terrible pain as she has said those words she didn't wanted him anymore he wasn't her friend anymore, much less a part of the family. The Uzumaki felt his heart shattered and it felt horrible, worse than any rejection he has ever experienced. Worse than all the times Sakura has rejected his offers to go on a date with him, or any rejection from the villagers of Konoha when they looked down on him for being a jinchurikki this pain was really bad. Not wanting to make her angrier he took a small rectangular shape box in red wrapping gift paper from his jacket, and put it on the table next to Serah's gift.

"Happy birthday" he whispered before leaving the area and her house.

"Tch….good riddance he'll be better off with Lebreau."

Lightning glared at the pain she was feeling she clenched her fist touching her chest it wasn't just anger she was feeling but jealousy as well. This pain was terrible she was hurt that once again the Uzumaki didn't show that much affection for her. No she didn't wanted to think about last night when she decided to go to Lebreau's bar and saw the NORA girl hugging him he was so happy with the gesture, it made her so angry. She was right this birthday was so ridiculous, her sister makes some stupid excuse to marry Snow and now Naruto was supporting someone else that it wasn't her. Out of anger she took all of the food from her birthday and threw it in the trash, every single food including the cake. The only thing she spared were the dishes and the utensils, she put them on sink and started washing them.

After a couple of minutes she finished washing everything from the disaster that turned out to be her twenty first birthday. When she was done she walked to the table and saw the two remaining things on it, which they were Serah and Naruto's gift. She was still upset with both for what they did, her sister for making such an excuse just so she can marry Snow and Naruto for supporting both of them in their decision and not taking her side. Yet she couldn't bear herself to throw those gifts into the trash they were after all for her from them, her birthday presents. She opened Serah's gift and inside was a survival knife, the handle was brown and it had a gold circle with the blade hidden under the handle. The sight of the weapon made her feel guilty after the way she treated her sister she opened the knife revealing the blade, she stood staring at it.

"How practical…."

Suddenly her television activated she has programmed it to turn on whenever there were news cast regarding the military and Cocoon.

"We bring you this broadcast to bring you an urgent Sanctum bulletin."

The GC sergeant stopped staring at her new knife and turned her attention to the television screen.

"Late last night officers confirmed the presence of a Pulse Fal'Cie inside the city of Bodhum, it is residing within the ancient ruins of the Vestige. Acting with Fal'Cie's Eden's approval authorities declared a state of emergency the entire district will be quarantined in response to this crisis. This has been a Sanctum's bulletin."

As the news broadcast ended and the television was turn off again Lightning's eyes widened in shock and realization. Seeing the mark in Serah's arm it hit her bad the horrible truth that she has been wrong about her sister's reason for marrying Snow, she was telling the truth. The guilt she was feeling was worse than the one she felt when she wasn't spending enough time with her it was killing her that she didn't believed her. The worst part of all is her words towards her she has threatened her to get rid of her if she was really an l'Cie. More guilt hit her when she remembered that she also shunned Naruto who believed the younger Farron she has ended her friendship with the Uzumaki because of her anger.

"What have I done….?"

"If you're really an l'Cie it's my job to take care of you…."

"Serah…."

"This is ridiculous worst birthday ever."

"How could I have done that to her….?"

"Why won't you believe her?"

"I don't know…."

"You're shunning her out, she's your sister!"

"I know…."

"Serah would never make something this serious up she's not that kind of person."

"She didn't made this up..."

"Ask yourself has Serah ever lie to you?"

"She has never lied to me before…."

Holding her knife Serah's present she quickly put it in one of one of her uniform pockets while trying to erase the immense guilt she was feeling. After what she told her only to find out that she was being honest she was marked as a Pulse l'Cie and instead of supporting her she shunned her and threatened her even if she didn't meant it. She was only trying to scare her and make her think twice about her decision in marrying Snow, how she failed miserably. She turned her attention to the second gift on the table which the box was smaller than the previous one it was Naruto's gift, she grabbed the box. Feeling more guilt in her heart she gathered the courage to open it but she failed, instead she put it in her red pack whenever she was ready she will open it.

"It's me or Snow."

"Our friendship is over."

"We're not friends anymore."

"Get out of my house you're not welcome here anymore!"

"I said get out!"

"He'll be better off with Lebreau I will only cause him more pain, Naruto…."

(Scene change)

(Location: apartment complex urban region Eden)

Sasuke has gotten rid of his PSICOM uniform and has changed to something more suited for his taste. A silver jacket with the neck area lifted, silver colored fingerless gloves with black baggy pants with lots of pockets and zippers with black combat boots. The Uchiha was packing because he was finally leaving the Sanctum capital for good now that he left PSICOM he was freely able to do so. It won't be long before Naabat send soldiers after him he left the army but he has chosen to do it in a way that reflect a traitor. He was making sure they don't find any trace of him in his place the Uchiha has packed other things like grenades and weapons among other equipment. Once he was done he strapped Masamune on his back taking a large bag, walking out he stopped by spotting something familiar.

On the small nightstand of his room stood a couple of pictures that meant a lot to him ever since he started his new life on Cocoon. The first picture was when they were younger he and Naruto started living together with Lightning and Serah and the second was when they graduated from the military academy. He has forged a lot of happy memories with his new family even better than the ones from his past life back at Konoha that's why he has made his choice. They were in danger along with everyone from Bodhum the Sanctum was about to take matters into their own hands with handling the threat they had discovered at the Vestige. The Uchiha took the pictures he was finally done packing it was time to leave.

Looking around he left the apartment complex heading into the street. He went to hide in a corner behind a stationed hover vehicle spotting a group of PSICOM enforcers heading to the complex, just as expected Naabat has made her move earlier than he expected. Three soldiers went to the complex while another three stayed behind they weren't too far from his location. It was impossible to move from his location without getting spotted by the soldiers caution was the key if he was seen they were call for reinforcements. That was the last thing he wanted his intentions were to leave Eden without bringing too much attention, there was nothing he could until they leave.

"Lieutenant Naabat has ordered us to capture Sasuke Uchiha alive."

"He resigned from the army I wonder why he would do that?"

"According to the lieutenant he chose to betray the Sanctum, he's a threat to Cocoon as much as Pulse is."

"Another squad has been contacted to search for him the archangels are also in the search."

"Probably by now the entire Eden task force is searching for me, lieutenant Naabat never waste time."

Suddenly and Aquila Velocycle floated above the three soldiers" orders from HQ, you three are to report to Eden hall for perimeter patrol."

"Roger."

"I've been ordered to go to Bodhum and inform the squads of Sasuke Uchiha's betrayal, I will also support the Purge operation."

"Roger we'll head to Eden hall on the double."

"There's my ticket out of here" Sasuke grinned staring at the velocycle.

He made sure the soldiers were gone and saw the velocycle was leaving. Without wasting time he focused the chakra on his feet to run on a tall building he was able to get to the same height the velocycle was flying. Taking a long jump he got on top of the vehicle ready to hijack it.

"What the-who's there?" the soldier was stupid enough to opened the hatch.

"Get out."

"You're Sasuke ah!"

The Uchiha has thrown the soldier from the velocycle and didn't paid attention of his painful fall, he was probably dead from the tall height. Closing the hatch he took over the controls and took off with one destination in mind but he knew he was too late. The Purge has begun PSICOM was now apprehending every single citizen of Bodhum and even if he was using a velocycle he won't get there in time he will have to make plans to arrive in the military first checkpoint. He was informed about everything from the operation so he knew where they were taking the citizens his only concern is if he gets there on time.

(Scene change)

(Location: Bodhum seaside city region)

After she left Lightning's house Serah wanted to go to someplace where she can get some privacy so she can cry her eyes for what happened at her sister's birthday party. Her older sister has rejected her and even threatened her it has really hurt her she only wanted to cry, but she never got the chance. Her eyes widened when she saw a wide number of soldiers capturing citizens they weren't leaving anyone behind, there were more like arresting them. She didn't know what was going on but she was so afraid being in the city wasn't safe and before she thought of heading back to her sister's house, she was spotted. Now the younger Farron was running for her life from a group of PSICOM soldiers when she took a corner she was met by more soldiers.

"Freeze!"

"What's going on?" she trembled.

"Take her with the others" commanded a soldier.

"Roger!"

"I…."

"Let's go" the soldier got closer he saw her l'Cie mark on her arm he gasped pointing his rifle at her" shoot her she's an l'Cie!"

In a heartbeat the soldiers got beat up by a frantic Snow" you're not letting a hand on her."

"Snow!" she hugged him.

"The hero always arrives in the nick of time to save his princess" he gave a smile.

He took looking around in different places both saw soldiers capturing any citizen they spotted ne knew what was going on. Snow clenched his fist this was wrong he saw this act by the military out of their morals this was the reason members of his group NORA felt hostiles towards them like Gadot and Yuj. It looked like the Sanctum has turned their backs on the people they are supposed to protect this was treason in their eyes. The tall blond was shocked there was another group of PSICOM soldiers heading their way he was ready to fight them but he never had the chance to as they were all beaten up by a fast blond who had the upper hand on them.

"Naruto!" Serah cheered seeing the whiskered blond.

"Get to safety you two I'll hold any of them that get in my way!"

"Thanks be careful buddy" replied Snow.

"Just make sure you take care of Serah."

"I will!"

"Be careful Naruto" said the younger Farron.

"I always do."

As they left Naruto turned to looked at the scene before him. Seeing soldiers capturing innocent people men, women and even children they were been taken by the army. This wasn't right and seeing as the Sanctum was abusing their military power on the innocent was enough to make him angry. It was wrong in every way the people were unarmed and unable to fight back these soldiers were all being a bunch of bullies who take advantage over the innocent it was one of the many things the blond jinchurikki hated to see. The strong punishing the innocent and without them fighting back or defend themselves this was going over the line, he was in deep thought.

"What the hell is going on why is the military capturing civilians?"

His eyes turned above high in the sky something made him gasped. There was a group of Sanctum air ship carrying the large ruin of the Vestige like they were trying to move it somewhere else. A loud screamed followed inside the Vestige as it was alive releasing a wave of energy throughout the sky, the blond jinchurikki saw the figure screaming. He had a bad feeling about it. It almost looked like there was something inside the ruin then he remembered about the investigation PSICOM was doing at the Vestige last night during the fireworks festival. It was starting to make sense about the situation and the capturing of the citizens, he glared ahead soldiers were heading for him.

"This can't be a coincidence this must be connected to the Vestige investigation…."

"There he is he's being hostile!"

"Don't have Flashflare with me but I don't need it…."

"Don't move!"

Naruto raised his arms seeing so many soldiers with their rifles" looks like I'm outnumbered. Can you tell me why are you people doing this?"

"That's none of your concern you're coming with us."

"I'll make it my concern…."

He charged at them but they opened fire hitting him, his body felt to the ground. The soldiers went to the body making sure he was dead, the fact he wasn't moving proved them right.

"Poor bastard never had a chance."

The body vanished replaced by a wooden log shocking them one soldier was sent flying by a kick another was hit by a rasengan. With his speed Naruto has taken them all out he made two shadow clones and they picked two of the rifles. They charged in at any soldier they spotted especially those that were apprehending civilians right now he didn't care if he reveals his shinobi skills, the lives of innocent people were at stake. They charged head on the clones firing hitting a couple of soldiers luckily he made sure not to hit any vitals points, killing them wasn't in his best interest. He kicked the rifle of a soldier before pining him to the ground it was time for him to get some answers.

"Start talking why the heck is the military taking civilians?"

"I ain't telling you anything."

"You better talk or I'll make you."

"This is classified I can't say a word."

"Sure you can and why the Guardian Corps aren't doing anything about this?"

"This operation is under PSICOM the GC has been told to stand down and not to interfere."

Naruto has had it his patient grew thin he formed a rasengan pointing the blue sphere in his face" if you don't tell me I'll smash this on your face and trust me the effects won't be pretty, your choice?"

The soldier saw the sphere as a powerful mana drive spell he was too nervous to think straight" all right…don't use that thing I'll talk."

"Good now tell me why are they trying to take the Vestige and everyone else?"

"It happened at last night's investigation we have discovered inside the Vestige a Pulse Fal'Cie."

"What….there's a Fal'Cie inside?" his cerulean eyes were wide from the shock.

"That must be the Fal'Cie that marked Serah…."

"We can't risk any further contamination by the Fal'Cie and the possibility of civilians becoming l'Cie. So we have been ordered to Purge the population of Bodhum."

"Purge….no" the blond jinchurikki made the rasengan vanished shocked by the revelation.

The soldier took the chance that Naruto was off guard before one of his shadow clones was pointing a rifle at him" don't try anything that you might regret."

"The Sanctum is planning to Purged the entire population what about members of the Guardian Corps?" asked the real Naruto.

"Only civs will get Purge military personal are an exception."

"Figures….they're going to save their own butts."

The whiskered blond punched the soldier hard enough to knock him unconscious" what should I do if I try save the people PSICOM might kill them on the spot, I can't risk the lives of civilians and lieutenant Amodar has been placed in a corner, there's nothing he can do. That's why he warned Lightning to stay out of their business it will only lead to grief?"

"What should we do now?" asked one of the clones.

"Go back you two…."

"Sure thing…."

POOF!

He picked his cell phone it was ringing looking at the number he sighed" you chose a bad time to call Sasuke."

*Like I care there's something I need to tell you.*

"I already know about the Fal'Cie in the Vestige."

*Saves me the time to tell you, then you know about the Purge?*

"I do, they are exiling everyone from Bodhum to Pulse…."

*We know that's not the case….*

"Yeah where are you I'm not happy that you didn't showed up for Lightning's birthday?"

*I told you last night I was busy with my resignation I already left Eden, it will take me a while to get to Bodhum so I'll be arriving to one of the checkpoints the Purge deportees will be taking.*

"That's seems like a good idea by now they have already taken everyone they already took the Vestige. Listen Sasuke there's something you need to know about Serah…."

*Serah what's wrong?*

Naruto took a deep breath ready to tell him the truth the younger Farron revealed at Lightning's birthday" she's a Pulse l'Cie."

*What….you're serious?*

"She is she must have been marked by the Fal'Cie at the Vestige."

*This makes things worse* the Uchiha didn't sound happy.

"She's all right she's with Snow they've probably escaped the military by now."

*Good I'll call you later.*

He ended the call" I better go find the NORA gang I hope they're all right."

(Scene change)

"There they are this way!"

"Stop 'em!"

Snow and Serah ran as fast as they could there were too many soldiers to avoid being spotted by them. The numbers were against them the chances of being capture were very high, it wasn't enough if Naruto helped them escape. The NORA leader went to one of the PSICOM small ships he had no problem handle it because his gang already had a couple of the model air ships. He got on while the younger Farron got on his lap he activated the controls the ship lifted leaving the group of soldiers pursuing them.

"Bring 'em down!"

Snow had a hard time dodging the incoming fire from the soldiers, more soldiers arrived from the other side firing. The NORA leader pressed the controls to increase speed along with increase altitude.

"Hold on!"

"Okay!"

It got worst for the couple even if they avoided the fire from the soldiers they were now being chased by PSICOM air ships. They followed them flying towards the Vestige and sadly they took fire, the ship was hit. Snow tried to control but it wasn't good soon the ship was going to crash he saw that there was a small platform with an entrance to the Pulsian ruins. It was the only place safe to land at such a high height.

"Jump!"

Serah did as told and landed on the platform behind the entrance, which it was covered by some kind silver colored fluid.

"Snow!"

The tall blond tried to control the ship when he gazed at his fiancée he gasped the silver fluid seemed to be alive and it has taken a hold of the younger Farron.

"Serah!"

He reached his hand towards her hoping that he makes it she was doing the same thing he was only able to touch her fingers slightly. The mysterious silver liquid took her taking her inside and just like that the gate closed emitting a blue energy hitting the NORA leader. The ship was sent flying due to the powerful force it crash landed in the sandy shores of the beach. Luckily Snow was all right he didn't suffer any serious injuries but it was too late to do anything for his fiancée. He stood gazing at the sky where the Sanctum ships has taken the Vestige far away from the city, away from his view. He was devastated he assured Lightning he was going to protect her sister and he failed his wedding will have to wait after this tragedy.

"No Serah…."

"Serah!"

(Scene change)

(Location: Lebreau's bar seaside city region)

Naruto arrived at the bar and it seems it was too late. The area was empty there was no one around the military seemed to have taken everyone, the sight made the blond jinchurikki angry. The Sanctum didn't care they think the best solution to solve this matter is getting rid of its citizen. It was no surprise how much they feared Pulse they find a Fal'Cie from the lower world and as consequence they send the people around it to their doom. This was their methods, PSICOM's way it angered him that he's also a soldier of the military even if he was Guardian Corps. After seeing this he was starting to think the same as Sasuke and quite the military, it has crossed his mind.

Entering the bar he saw that most of the place was a mess, there were broken dishes and glasses as well as bottles. He felt bad for Lebreau this place is part of her family legacy it used to belong to her father Marlon. Now the entire place didn't looked like it resembles the café bar he knew the NORA female member will be quite upset if she ever gets to see this. Taking a couple of steps he got into a fighting stance hearing footsteps he was ready to fight with some anger build up if there were PSICOM soldiers here. Four people charged at him holding automatic rifles before the blond jinchurikki lowered his guard, staring at the NORA gang whom they were relief to see him as he was to see them.

"You guys are all right…."

"That was a close one Naruto, we could have shoot you man" Gadot said.

"You're okay at least things aren't so bad" replied Yuj.

"Where's Snow?" asked Maqui.

"He's with Serah those two should be fine but I'm glad to see you guys, um…Lebreau I'm sorry about your bar."

"It's okay. Besides I was thinking of remodeling the place anyway" she replied anger was clearly in her features" but things aren't staying like this PSICOM is going to pay!"

"Damn right we're not letting them get away with this" said Gadot.

"What they heck just happened?"Yuj suddenly snapped" they came here and they started taking everyone, all the customers were taken away."

"They didn't take us because we fought back glad that we have weapons" said Maqui.

"I'm sorry everyone" Naruto lowered his head in shame" I'm with the military and I feel like this whole thing is my fault."

"Don't be silly it's not your fault blaming yourself isn't going to help us" replied Lebreau.

"Do you know why they started taking people?" asked Gadot.

The whiskered blond nodded" I do…."

"Then tell us."

Everyone turned at the entrance to the bar and saw Snow walking towards them he didn't looked happy or angry he seemed to be emotionally broken.

"Snow you're okay" said Maqui.

"Of course he is he's the hero" replied Gadot.

"Wait where's Serah?" asked Naruto worried that the younger Farron wasn't with him.

Hearing his fiancée's name the NORA leader lowered his head tightening his fists" Serah….she's gone she was taken away."

"The military took her too?" asked Yuj.

"No it wasn't PSICOM the Vestige took her, it felt like the whole ruin was alive."

"What?" asked a confused Lebreau?

"The Vestige took Serah and it acted like it was alive….it was probably the Fal'Cie the one who took her. This is not good Lightning isn't going to be happy when she finds out" thought Naruto.

"Snow are you sure you're okay?" asked Maqui worried.

"Yeah hero how can a ruin captured someone?" followed Gadot.

"Hey I saw what I saw I'm not making this up…."

"I believe you" replied the Uzumaki.

Snow nodded" Naruto if you know what's going on we would like to know."

"All right I was planning in telling you guys anyway. Last night during the fireworks festival PSICOM discovered a Pulse Fal'Cie residing inside the Vestige."

Everyone was shocked at the news Snow didn't looked that much taken but the rest were obviously taken in by the shocking news.

"So that's why Serah was marked…."

"There's a Pulse Fal'Cie here?" said Yuj.

"I can't believe it" followed Lebreau.

The blond soldier nodded" after they discovered it they decided to purged everyone from Bodhum to prevent any risks with other civilians because of the Fal'Cie's powers."

"Purge….?" Snow was shocked.

"They're going to send everyone to Pulse?" Maqui said of course everyone knew of the Purge as complete exile to the lower world, any citizen of Cocoon saw it as a hell worse than death no one had any desire to go to such place.

"That can't be…." said Yuj.

"That's why they have been taking the people you see this is what I've been trying to say. The Sanctum will always see us as expendable easy to get rid of, they don't care how many men, women and children they sacrifice to fulfill their own ways" said Gadot.

"We can't let this happen" Lebreau said.

"Of course we're doing something we're talking about dozens of innocent people including Serah, it's time for us to take action" Snow said.

"Time for team NORA" Maqui said.

"All right, the only way PSICOM is taking everyone out of Bodhum is through the train so it's off to the station" said Naruto.

"Everyone gather every single weapon and vehicle we have available this is a serious mission we have in our hands" replied the NORA leader.

"Roger!" they replied in unison before heading to the back of the bar to get the weapons.

"It's going to take us a while to pack everything we might not be able to make it to the station on time. Naruto do you know where the train is heading….?"

"That I don't know but you can get there with my help. I'll call Lightning we'll go to the station together do you still have that homing beacon device I gave you?"

Snow grinned taking a small device from his trench coat pocket" you mean this….?"

"Yeah that's the one I'll activate mine once we leave the station."

"All right I'm counting on you."

"No problem. Don't worry Snow we'll save Serah."

"I know thanks…."

The blond jinchurikki left the bar taking his cell phone and dialed Lightning's home number. He was scared to tell her everything she probably didn't know about the Fal'Cie at the Vestige and the Purge of Bodhum, and worst of all that Serah was captured by the Fal'Cie. He knew it we she wasn't going to take any of the news lightly, especially the one of her younger sister getting kidnapped. The phone was ringing and he was getting more nervous by the minute trying to calm down and go through with this. Finally after a minute the phone was answered and he felt his heart stopped beating, he was really nervous about telling her.

*Hello….?*

Naruto was heartbroken hearing her tone, it sounded like it was off. It was full of negative emotion it was sad, sorrowful he figured out something must have happened to make her feel like this. He had a bad feeling about this maybe she was feeling bad for the things she said at her birthday, what she said to Serah and what she said to him she was probably feeling bad about it. Guilty for pushing her precious people away if that was the case then he will help get through it.

"Lightning it's me."

"Naruto….?" She was surprised to hear from him after the things she said to him.

"Listen to me there's something you must know about-"

*I know about the Pulse Fal'Cie at the Vestige and the Purge.*

"How did you-"

*I saw the news. Serah was telling the truth….*

He heard her tone like it was breaking" it's okay but there's something else you must know, about Serah?"

*What do you mean did something happen to her?* she raised her tone it was filled with concern.

"She….she was taken away."

*What….?*

"She was captured by the Fal'Cie."

*I knew that idiot couldn't protect her!* she was now angry referring to Snow that he failed in looking after her sister.

"Lightning calm down we can still make it and save her. Meet me at Bodhum station in one hour we'll go and save Serah together."

*I….all right we'll go together.*

"See you there" he ended the call.

(Scene change)

Vanille was walking with a group of people that were being led by a squad of PSICOM soldiers. After they found her she didn't put up a fight and agreed to come quietly with them. She tried asking them why they were doing this but she didn't have a reply, instead one of the people said that they were taking them to Pulse. They have heard the rumors of the Purge that it was exile to the lower world and after hearing that she no longer felt any fear. She couldn't believe that they were sending people from Cocoon to Pulse her home if that was true then she couldn't refuse a one way ticket back to her home land. It was better this way then being here and risk putting more innocent people in danger, her only regret that she might not see her friend or tell her truth regarding their focus.

"Are they really sending us to Pulse….?"

She looked between the groups thinking that there was someone missing to come with her. Her friend Fang how she wanted for her to be here they could go together to their home, but it was impossible. She knew she wouldn't leave until they figure out their focus and that's what scare her the most she has been hiding the truth from her. The red head knew her focus quite well and she has been pretending like she has forgotten and she knew her friend will be angry with her if she ever finds out. The only thing in her mind was to return to Pulse and run away from her focus while she was desperately hoping for Fang to follow her and forget about their mission.

"Back to Pulse….at lease I won't be coming alone with so many people of Cocoon. But it's not the same if you're not with me Fang."

(Scene change)

(Location: Lightning's house)

Lightning was still feeling guilty after everything she said to her sister. She has been staring at a family picture that was located next to her nightstand in her room. The picture they took when they were little after their mother died looking back at things it made her think what a fool she truly was. She couldn't believe how stupid she was in thinking that Serah said she was an l'Cie as an excuse to marry Snow why did she had to think that it was a lie. She has never lied to her it was her foolish stubbornness that got the better of her now she was paying the price with her being taken by the same Fal'Cie that marked her. Aside from being very angry with Snow because the NORA leader failed to protect her she also failed to do so, she failed to trust and protect her younger sister.

She was done staring at the picture and turned her attention to another one. When Naruto and Sasuke were living with them, to her it was the day they became an official family. She used not to trust them and thought that she will never have them as family but she was wrong, she came to care for both of them. Especially Naruto the blond has become someone dear to her that she was still confused about the strong feelings she held for him. The guilt she was feeling for him was in the same level with Serah after what she told him, just like that they weren't friends anymore. The same way she didn't believe her sister she didn't believe him, she didn't trusted him. Her anger got the better of her and shunned him because she was supporting Snow in his engagement to Serah.

Filled with determination she left her room she has geared up the necessary things she will need. Her Blazefire Saber strapped on her back as always she has also taken a couple of potions, just in case to heal injuries along with some AMP technology. She doesn't usually use an anti-gravity field but she was going to need it in this rescue mission, it might save her life when she's falling from high places. The pink haired soldier left her house with one thing in mind to save her sister and she hoped that Naruto will forgive her because they were going to save her together.

"I don't care if you will never forgive me Serah I'm rescuing you. You and Naruto can hate me if you want but I won't abandon my family….not this time."

(Scene change)

Naruto was done packing his gear his Flashflare saber strapped on his back. Like Lightning he has brought a couple of potions he didn't know how dangerous the mission will become, it was better to be prepared than sorry. Hopefully Sasuke will be there and he will give them a hand they need all the help they could get he already Snow was making his move to rescue the people of Bodhum and Serah. His gaze was on the picture when they were younger with the Farron sisters it made him smile of the memory. Serah was happily smiling next to Sasuke who gave a small smile, which was weird for the Uchiha. Lightning was next to him being a little serious how he would love if she was smiling like her sister, Lightning will be Lightning.

The Uzumaki was done he was ready to leave he took a small brown pack strapping it on his waist. The pack was filled with potions and some phoenix down he was being cautious more than usual because he knew once he got on that train he wasn't returning here, he has already sent his message to lieutenant Amodar regarding the situation he and superior we're facing. He has enjoyed living in Bodhum a lot he has forged so many good memories, one he will treasured forever. Deep inside he hoped to return again but the chances of that actually happening were close to cero, he was done and left his room. Leaving his apartment he locked the door and left heading to his destination where Lightning will join him his eyes were full of determination, but it was stronger than he has ever shown before.

"Hold on Serah we're coming to rescue you…."

(Time skip)

(Location: Bodhum train station)

The station was filled with people there was a long line waiting for their turn to board the train. There was a big machine that when people entered it will give them a cloak hood that represents the clothing of those who are going to get purged. That's how the military will tell if they are Purge deportees and to all of the civilians present they have lost all hope when they were captured. Once they will get purged their lives will come to an end they all live in fear with being send to Pulse. Living in the lower world it was the same to live in hell that's how everyone from Cocoon saw it there was no dreams, no hope, no life if you live in the world of your enemies. A lot of people thought the chances of becoming an l'Cie were very high along with the chances of becoming a Cie'th.

Every single one of them were scared to death it was over for them, there was no happy ending or life in Pulse. Some were trying hard not lose their calm and start panicking, others we're too depressed to say a word and other looked like they wanted to die. The ones who were more scared than the rest were the children there a lot of them probably from the age of six and up reaching to their teens. Most of the majority was crying trying to look for some conform from their parents this action was causing some of the PSICOM soldiers to get annoyed they thought of shooting them to shut them up. Needless to say this day was the worst day in any life of a Bodhum citizen, the day their dreams die and everything is lost.

"Join the end of the line. Attention Purge deportees follow instructions and stay in your lines!" said one of the PSICOM soldiers.

"Personal belongings will be returned upon arrival."

Hope emerged from the machine wearing his Purge hood Nora stood waiting for him. The silver haired teen was so scared to think they're entire vacation became the worst thing that happened to them, instead of being the other way around. Because they were in Bodhum when they found the Pulse Fal'Cie they have earned a one way ticket to the lower world, exactly in their last day of vacation the irony. Both he and his mother have been condemned to hell to live in Pulse and in truth he wasn't looking forward to arrive to his home because he didn't wanted to see his father, now he didn't had to worry about that anymore.

"Mom" his tone was soft but filled with fear.

"It's all right I'm here don't worry."

"It's your turn to get a cloak" one of the soldiers came to them.

"Pardon me but I don't see the need to wear one I know I'm going to Pulse, my son is wearing one isn't that enough?"

The solder mumble something but he thought it wasn't necessary" go ahead and board the train."

"Thank you."

They followed one of the lines who were boarding the Purge train, not too far behind them someone else has emerged from the cloak machine. Vanille gazed at the clothing and it felt weird, the cloak and the hood didn't fit her style but she didn't complained. She obeyed instructions and followed the mother and the son in the line boarding the train she was ready to return to her home. Everyone else wasn't as determined as her some of the people have reached their limit and they couldn't take it anymore.

Two civilians a man and a woman were keeping their eyes on the soldiers they had about enough. They weren't planning to go to Pulse the only thing in their minds is to, looked for the perfect chance to escape. Losing their patience they made a break for it running as fast as they could passing through the crowd.

"Move it!"

"You halt!"

They ran after them eventually catching up to them and they opened fire killing them on the spot. Everyone screamed in terror at the sight their bodies were covered in blood, the children present were screaming and crying. They were more afraid now knowing that they couldn't escape it was go to Pulse or get killed. The soldiers were done killing the two run away facing the rest of the Purge deportees.

"Do not leave your lines this is for your own safety!"

Among the feared crowd stood Naruto he was on the next line to board the train watching the entire thing with anger in his eyes his original color has been replaced by a blood red, and his eyes looked more feral. He was glaring at the soldiers trying to do everything in his power not to lose control it was tempting to kill the soldiers for what they did. Another example how the Sanctum handles things just for the sake of peace, to the blond jinchurikki it was complete and utter bullshit. He took a deep breath calming down remembering the plan he needed to board the train in order to rescue Serah, slowly his eyes turned back to their normal color.

"For your own safety….yeah right safety my ass."

Lightning finally arrived at the station she walked passing the long line. Her sights we're on the nearest PSICOM soldier this was the only thing to do in order to get to Serah before it was too late. Her objective, her goal was to save her younger sister after that she will beg for her forgiveness for not believing her and threatening her. She was willing to go to the depths of Pulse if it means that she will be saved, the nearest soldier went to her and once he took a look a her GC rank plate he knew who she was.

"Don't tell me you want to get purged too?"

"What….too?" she blinked didn't expect to hear that like he has read her mind.

The PSICOM soldier nodded" not too long ago a GC came and he volunteered to get purged he gave up his officer position and his weapon."

The older Farron took a look at another soldier holding a gun blade she recognized it anywhere. It was the Flashflare saber she knew the only person who wields it yep, the blond idiot as she calls him has come to help her as he told her. She was still surprised he was willing to help her save Serah when she was so mean to him at her birthday celebration, she was the one that ruined the party. Her aqua eyes followed the people on the lines and there he was Naruto was taking his turn waiting to get purged a small smile spread her features.

"Fine I want to get purged too I quit" she handed her gun blade to him.

"All right line up."

"What a bunch of fools they have a death wish" thought the soldier.

She nodded heading towards the whiskered blond at the end of the line. Seeing him again made her felt a bit angry but more relief even when she told him that there friendship was over, he was still here ready to help her. She felt like she was the luckiest person in the world to have such a wonderful and caring friend who would do anything to help her, yet she sometimes didn't treat him with the respect that he deserves. Her guilt came back he trusted Serah, believed her and she didn't listened to him either just like her sister and instead she threw away his friendship away all for her anger. She didn't notice there was someone following her with dark skinned and a wide afro.

Sazh felt relief after everything he went through it was terrible that even when Dahj fulfilled his focus detecting the Pulse Fal'Cie from the Vestige that still kept him under PSICOM watch. Even if it mattered by now he was probably a crystal if his focus was to detect the Pulse Fal'Cie, with that out of the equation he wasn't out of trouble. He was being kept under watch by the military he needed to get away from them he was lucky he convince Naabat to buy something for his son from a shop in Palumpolum and that's when he took his chance to escape. He stole one of PSICOM's air ships and flew out of there he had no problem since he was a good pilot, in order to get away completely he choose to be here since he was present just like everyone else when the Fal'Cie was discovered.

Lightning gave Naruto a small smack on his shoulder" why are you here?"

"Same reason you are I guess" he gave a silly grin.

"You don't have to do this…."

The blond looked around getting closer to her" I told you we're saving Serah together, and it's not just us. Snow and his gang are also coming later to lend us a hand and Sasuke is probably coming too, we have plenty of help."

"Tch I don't need Snow's help."

"He's still going to help us even if you beat him up" he grinned.

"Excuse me?" Sazh called to her and she was ignoring him.

"Hey lady what gives?"

"I volunteered" was her only reply.

"Nice to meet you Purge buddy Naruto Uzumaki" the whiskered blond was completely different from Lightning when it comes to introducing himself and being very talkative.

"You're very care free about this whole thing son and the name is Sazh Katzroy" replied the afro haired pilot.

"What can I say I always wanted to visit Pulse?"

Sazh and Lightning sweat dropped at his comment while the people who were making the line gave him the" are you insane look".

"Good luck with your attitude, and what about you, you don't look like you're ready to go quiet in the good night?"

"You want quiet, you'd better take the next train."

"Oh yeah it's going to be so quiet they won't know what hit them" said Naruto.

"Well, now I really want to know what you two are up to."

They followed the line waiting for their turn only two of the Purge victims were looking to arrive to their destination. It was Lightning's turn to enter the machine and she quickly left wearing her Purge hood, she followed boarding the train. Naruto was next when he emerged with his hood he made a mental note whishing it had some orange he didn't bothered saying anything remembering why they were doing this in the first place. Sazh followed the Uzumaki with his Purge hood soon all three have boarded the train soon it was going to leave the station taking the entire population of Bodhum.

Heading to its first checkpoint in the Purge's destination the restricted zone also known as the Hanging Edge.

To be continued

I would like to apologize to everyone for making you think I have updated on July 10. It was just a small mistake I made while uploading the revised and corrected version of the first chapter in terms of grammar sorry to lift your hopes up but here's the actual chapter. I think I finally found a good Beta for this story and he will probably send me the second chapter soon so thank you Jay Swizz for your hard work. On another note I intentionally wanted to make Sasuke/Naabat to be one sided only just to add some drama to the story but trust me this is pro Sasuke/Fang. Finally I have arrived to the events of the game thank you everyone for reviewing keep them coming I will see you all next time farewell.

Next time: the restricted zone