Legend of the Defiers

by Gravenimage

At the Valley of the End Naruto and Sasuke's strongest attacks collided creating some kind of dimensional rift through space sending them to an unknown world. A story of defying fate, forging bonds and finding love Naruto/Lightning Sasuke/Fang.

16. Escaping the net

Disclaimer: this is nothing no need to get shock but I don't own Naruto and FFXIII it is the rightful property of Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

** Communications through phones and communicators.

(Bold and parenthesis Eidolon speech of Kyuubi speaking)

---

Chapter 16 Escaping the net

(Location: Lake Bresha encased in crystal outside of Cocoon's inner rim)

They walked away from the area where Snow and Sasuke have chosen to stay behind, with the crystalized Serah. The remaining members of the l'Cie group have decided to continue their journey for survival, away from the military which they were looking for them. There were now five of them deciding that it was for the best to move on and find safety while the other two stayed to try and save the younger Farron. They chose to stay for what they believed in thinking for what its right while some were thinking that they will catch up to them, others that they will meet them again next time. Keep moving was the only thing they could do while hoping that they don't run into danger which it was most likely.

Lightning hasn't taken another look since she left Snow to try and break Serah from the crystal ground. She hasn't regretted her decision in leaving her sister behind she needed to move on and survive, they were fighting for their survival against the Sanctum. The previous encounter with PSICOM was just the beginning, next time they will sent stronger and more experienced soldiers after them. The former GC sergeant was upset with the NORA leader not regretting what she told him, he was all talk without backing it up. First he said that it was their focus to save Cocoon and now he wanted to forget it and stay with the crystalized girl that it was her younger sister, truly a hypocrite when she saw one. Luckily she won't have to see his face ever again, she could still dream but then again she could be wrong.

Naruto was quiet he was calm at the situation they were in, and the last thing that happened. He was feeling a little uneasy that they had to break their numbers by taking separate ways when he strongly believes in the word teamwork. It bothered him that he had to part ways with Sasuke again after just meeting up recently at the Pulse Vestige, he wasn't worried thought he knew he will meet the Uchiha again probably sooner than he might think. The only thing he could do right now is to keep moving with the rest of the group and survive it was still hard to believe that he was now an enemy of Cocoon, number one enemy of the Sanctum. It was going to be one of those days you wished you would like to wake up from this nightmare, and never had it ever again.

Sazh was feeling down to be separating from people that were sharing the same fate, and that have become allies. He wasn't with Snow's decision in staying when they were currently being hunted by the military along with Sasuke most likely they will get caught. Those chances were very high and that he might not make it, he erased the last part he tried to remain positive. If they were lucky the NORA leader and the Uchiha will catch up to them in time before they get any further, he was being delusional. Like he said without tools they will be digging for days, by them they would already be far away from here. They will leave before reuniting with them, this was not his day it's like he had the worst luck in the world with being an l'Cie was enough to be damned for life. Not wanting to think about his son, he thought about other things that doesn't include family.

Vanille remained quiet worried about their l'Cie companions, staying behind wasn't a wise decision. She was also surprised that Sasuke didn't try to stop her from leaving with the other, since Fang sent him to get her and bring her back to her friend. The Uchiha didn't tell her a thing he just let her go like that it made her wonder his reasons. Maybe he's expecting to catch up to them that might be it, she was feeling bad with herself that she left, Sasuke is the only person who could take her to Fang and she chose to run away again. Guilt came back to haunt her and she pushed those thoughts aside getting back to her positive and cheery mood, it was hard to keep her mask on though.

Hope was in deep thought focusing his anger on Snow, he was determined that he will meet him again. He was still too afraid to try and unleash his anger on the NORA leader and he was not ready to face him yet. Getting strong was the first thing he needed but it was still too hard to do with his mother's death and the horrible reality that he was an l'Cie, he had no other choice but to continue traveling with the rest of the group they were all sharing the same burden. He couldn't fight he'd rarely knew how to defend himself there was no way he could fight the monster the group has faced so far. The only thing in his mind right now was to get to safety away from all the danger.

"I'm not happy with leaving them on their own, but we've got to keep on moving" said Sazh.

"You're worrying too much those two can take care of themselves" replied Naruto.

"Maybe we shouldn't have left them on their own" Vanille said.

"They'll be fine I've known Snow and Sasuke for a while and they can hold on their own just fine" said the whiskered blond.

"All we can do is pray that they make it out okay" replied the afro haired pilot.

"You guys are not listening to me they'll be fine, let's worry more about getting out of here safely."

"We are listening to you but still we have the right to get worry" replied Sazh.

"Right" he grinned silly.

Their journey further ahead it wasn't so hard, or so they thought. They ran to a group of Bresh bass which the fight got complicated, they lacked some members. Most of the group got hit by their attacks all because Snow wasn't here he was the one taking hits from everyone, he was the human shield. Although they were able to defeat them it reminded them that everyone wasn't present, they would have won the fight a lot quicker if their absent companions were here. They also encountered a group of pantherons which they defeated them in a heartbeat easy pickings while Lightning was confident that they didn't needed Snow she would prefer to have Sasuke with them though.

Nobody knew where they were going just following the path that will lead them ahead. Naruto and Lightning had never been to Lake Bresha before while they were on missions for the Guardian Corps, so they were pretty much clueless like the rest which path to take. They arrived to an open are with a couple of tube that they were being used as bridge to cross to the other side. However the sight was dangerous it wasn't safe, below was a dark pit the possibilities that it was bottomless were high. The former sergeant took a long look at the two bridges, one lead to a cliff where there was nothing it wasn't the right place to go.

"We go this way" she pointed to the other tube.

"Let's be careful" Vanille said.

The group carefully crossed the tube one by one, Lightning was first taking the lead she gave them wave telling them that it was all right to cross. Hope was behind her with Vanille closed by, Sazh followed and Naruto was the last. They made sure to walk slowly and calmly without any rushing, knowing one wrong move could leave to disaster. Being hunted by the Sanctum was one thing but falling into a pit getting killed was another, neither of them wanted both choices. The tube was so long as well as the path to reach on the other side, it felt like an hour that they were still crossing over.

"Okay do not shake the slippery tube we cool with this do not shake the slippery tube?" said Sazh.

Naruto couldn't help but grinned at his comment he suddenly got a thought that it wasn't nice to do. Sure they were going through some tough times being l'Cie and enemies of Cocoon, but maybe they needed some light up. Sure he thought that it wasn't right but temptation was knocking on his door, his bad conscious was also telling him to go for it. The Uzumaki made sure that they were almost reaching the other side, he started shaking the tube.

"Oh no earthquake!"

The Uzumaki was shaking the tube jumping on it making the others gasped. Sazh almost had a heart attack while Vanille and Hope jumped from the tube landing on the side, followed by Lightning. The blond jinchurikki chuckled stopping the shaking and helped the afro haired man crossed reuniting with everyone, and looking at their expressions they weren't happy one bit. He sweat dropped Vanille looked frustrated, Hope was frowning, Sazh was giving him a not so approving look but he didn't bothered looking at the pink haired soldier. The blond jicnhurikki chuckled feeling a little nervous he still saw the whole thing to be funny.

"Naruto that was not nice!" Vanille was the first to snap still feeling scared.

"You scared us!" followed Hope.

"Sorry I'm sorry I just couldn't resist it was so tempting to do it" he was grinning silly.

"Son are you looking for me to get a heart attack I said do not shake the slippery tube!" Sazh said.

"I said I'm sorry" he turned finally seeing Lightning's expression.

Looking at her it made him turned pale she had her arms crossed and giving him a not so happy look. He has seen it dozens of times whenever he does something that was not right, or just silly and stupid.

"You're going to hit me aren't you?"

"Guess….?"

SMACK!

Yep Naruto was right she hit him on his head, he did had it coming for his foolish act. Scaring everyone like they were about to fall from the tube like bridge wasn't right and most importantly, it wasn't funny. The blond jinchurikki had a lump while Lightning just shook her head even if she knew that he was just trying to light up the mood, remembering how screwed up they were all for being l'Cie. She will feel better if he comes up with something less dangerous, like a joke or a dumb comment. She did like the focus shop gag she saw it funny although the second joke of buying a focus to save Cocoon didn't humored her. She erased thought of thinking about Snow and her ridiculous way of logic that they were all the saviors of Cocoon, it was bull crap and delusional.

After forgetting of the Uzumaki's rude and scary stunt since he still considered that it was a joke, they resumed walking heading to a large view of the crystalized lake. There was a group of Pantheron in the far corner they ignored them, as long as they didn't get near them they will be all right. There was also a crashed air ship with a Vulcan gun they took a better look at the view ahead. Naruto and Lightning were the ones gazing ahead while Sazh was trying to relax from this mess they have all gotten themselves in. Vanille and Hope were not too far from the others, they were quiet none felt like saying a word.

The red head gazed at him worried of course she knew there was something bothering him it was about Snow the person they left behind as he attended to break his fiancée free. The silver haired teen was obviously upset with the NORA leader with what happened with his mother, his reckless actions caused the woman her death along with hundreds of innocent people. Yet he hasn't said anything to him when they met up with the tall blond at the Vestige, was he scared or maybe he couldn't get the right words out of his mouth. Whatever it was she was determined to help him with this, watching a family member died in front of you is a terrible experience it's like she knew how he felt.

"Still couldn't talk to him you'll never get past this if you don't say something?" she started a conversation.

"Words won't change anything, but the next time we meet, he'll learn exactly how I feel" there was some anger in his green eyes he counted in meeting the NORA leader again.

Naruto and Lightning gazed ahead seeing a large bridge heading further, but there was one problem. The entrance on the other side of the bridge was blocked by crystal they needed something to break through, something strong enough. They went back to the ship their gazes were fixed on the Vulcan gun it will be the thing to get solve their small problem.

"Looks operational…."

"Yep looks like it wasn't badly damage when it crash landed."

Lightning used her gun blade to hit the automatic gun, it fire a couple of rounds in contact. The crystal wall was shattered revealing a new path, along with a group of Breshan bass and a similar creature with red legs and tail. The pink haired soldier sheathed her weapon taking the lead again looking to cut a path through the monsters that were blocking their way. The group has gotten to another battle with four against eight, which the numbers of the enemy were greater. Naruto and Lightning were the edge in the fight, shooting and slashing the frog like creatures while Vanille and Sazh have casted magic. Even if they were outnumbered the small monsters were beaten one by one, some got hurt in the process like Sazh and Vanille but nothing cure could help.

Once the battle was over they resumed their walking while in a little further from them, stood Hope. The silver haired teen has once again stood in the side lines without lifting a finger, or more precise without helping the group in the battle. Deep inside he was ashamed that he hasn't done a thing to support them but what could he do, he was still shaken up about what happened. Being turned into an l'Cie has really affected him along with the death of his mother, his life changing for the worst never being the same. Yet the thought came back at how useless he have been since this mess started, he couldn't tell Snow how he felt about losing his mother because of him and now he was too afraid to do anything. The young l'Cie sighed and followed the group crossing the bridge, the last thing he wanted is to get behind and get lost.

As they went further ahead they arrived at a clearing with an unwanted guest. The group got a little uptight staring at an Alpha Behemoth, which it seemed to be on patrol. It was a no brainer that PSICOM was already here and they have sent squads to search the crystalized lake for any Purge survivors, or l'Cie. This wasn't going to be an easy fight, it will be completely different from the ones they had, and it will probably be in the same level as the Manasvin Warmech. The group has really their work cut out with this new problem in their way waiting was out of the question if they wanted to keep going. So far the mechanical weapon hasn't spotted them which it was good for them.

"Looks like PSICOM have left their big toy behind" said Sazh.

"They're using top grade weapons to hunt us down, no surprise there" replied Lightning.

"Any ideas or should we go with the usual fight it head on thing?" asked Naruto.

"I think we should use Libra on it."

Everyone turned to Vanille which the red head was taken a bit back by all eyes on her.

"What….?" said Sazh.

"Libra….?" followed the Uzumaki.

"It's a technique that allows us to gain the information of the enemy. We can learn its strength and weaknesses" replied the red head.

"Are you talking about vigilance?" asked Hope.

"That sounds like it but we can't use it, because vigilance is a technique used by the mana drive system that the military use. Both PSICOM and the Guardian Corps use the technique because it's very useful in battle" said the whiskered blond.

"No I'm talking about Libra, as l'Cie we have full access to it" replied Vanille.

"Hm…a technique similar to vigilance but made for l'Cie, sounds like we're not so cursed after all" said Sazh trying to add some humor to the moment but having such an ability was very useful in battle.

"All right how do we do it?" Naruto said making sure the mechanical Behemoth hasn't spotted them yet.

"The same way we use magic we just concentrate and focus, only this time we focus in learning the enemy's information" said the red head.

Lightning who was quiet during the conversation has done exactly what Vanille said. She has already used magic before so she knew how to do it, focusing in getting the information they needed she raised her hand towards the mechanical Behemoth. The information she has unlocked has been received to her mind, she knew everything about the mechanical weapon she knew what to do.

"Alpha Behemoth weakness it's fire and water, nothing to worry about."

"You did it Lightning!" said Naruto.

"We fight it with magic then?" asked Sazh.

"I'll take the lead, support with magic" said the former sergeant.

"Got it we hit it hard, as long as we have the element of surprise-"

"Oh no it spotted us!" shouted Hope.

The blond jinchurikki couldn't finish his sentence because the militarized unit has spotted them, it went into attack formation. The group has already prepared to fight drawing their weapons, while Naruto took a glance at Hope who was backing out. The silver haired teen wasn't fighting he has made his point.

"Get back!"

The teen nodded keeping his distance from the incoming fighting he didn't need to be told twice. Part of him felt terrible that he wasn't helping, he really felt like he was useless. But fighting it wasn't him he didn't know how to fight, he was weak just a scared child. Somehow he remembered Sasuke's words and it made him feel worse, he was truly hopeless.

The Alpha Behemoth was received by weapon from Naruto and Lightning firing from their gun blades. Sazh and Vanille took care of the magic offensive casting fire and water, weaknesses of the mechanized weapon. The militarized unit attacked with one its claws yet his moves were a bit slow and sluggish, the group didn't have a problem to dodge and counter. It was getting beat up badly with the additional magic damage done with the fast moves of the former soldiers, they had the advantage. Surprise by the l'Cie group when the Alpha Behemoth changed targets leaving them, heading to a familiar location, well known to them.

Naruto saw this coming gasping" he's going after Hope…."

"Hope run!"

The silver haired teen was shocked seeing the mechanized weapon running to him, he tried to run but tripped. He was scared out of his mind watching it get close to him, the only option he have was to attack it. There was no chance he could do that with the fearful expression he had on his face, he trembled the Behemoth was right in front of him. There was weapon fire coming from Lighting as she was shooting on the militarized unit, trying to get it away from him.

"Get him out of there I'll cover you!" shouted the older Farron looking at the whiskered blond.

The blond jinchurikki didn't need to be told twice with a quick nod, he ran towards the teen. The blond soldier was quick on his feet dodging an attack by the mechanical weapon. Sazh and Vanille supported the cover fire brought by Lightning with magic, giving the Uzumaki enough time to get Hope out of harm's way. The former soldier took a swing with his Flashflare saber hitting the Alpha Behemoth it started malfunctioning, due to the damage it was taking. It felt down exploding in the process, they sheathed their weapons back, while Hppe seemed to be more relief than the others.

"Thanks…."

"No problem."

As the others approached them the silver haired teen was frightened from the glare he was receiving from Lightning. Clearly he could tell that she wasn't happy with him that's the impression he got from the former GC sergeant. She wasn't happy one bit because of his attitude of being scared Naruto risked his life to save him, she agreed with Sasuke when he said to leave him behind. The teen was weak who will only get in the way this situation was a fight for survival, and this was just the beginning to what the Sanctum had in store for them. If they were going to get through this they needed to be strong and stay sharp, Hope however wasn't being any of the above.

After crossing a bridge made from rubble from the remains of the Vestige, they went to a cliff having a view of a large clearing. They spotted a large ship stationed in the middle in which the former soldiers recognized it as Sanctum gun ship, it is used for search and scouting missions. They kept a low profile staring at the ship they saw more ships being deployed while soldiers were lining up to begin their mission.

"Look at that, they're sending in cruisers" said Sazh.

"They're obviously searching for Purge survivors" replied Naruto.

"I hope everyone made it out okay" said Vanille.

"So do I, but nowhere is safe from them now damn it!" followed the afro haired man.

"Just because they'd share a neighboring with a Fal'Cie, they get treated like Pulse tainted rats."

Vanille lowered her head looking grim" people really hate Pulse don't they?"

"Not hate…more like fear tens of millions of people all scared of Pulse bogeymen. They'd be shaking in their beds every night if they knew that l'Cie like us we're around."

"But they purged the entire town" said the red head.

"It's crazy, I know but the Sanctum Fal'Cie did nothing to stop it. Up until now Eden has always stepped in…to correct their errors in judgment. Guess humans aren't worth the effort figure they'll let us kill each other off."

"It's easy to fear something you don't understand. It's easier to follow the crowd and believe that fear is real because you don't understand it either" Naruto said his eyes softened it felt like he was living his childhood all over again.

"Naruto….?" Vanille stared at him along with Lightning.

Back at Konoha he was feared by the villagers for being the jinchurikki of the Kyuubi and now in this world, feared for being an l'Cie. What an irony that he will be fear in both dimensions, one world he was feared for being a demon container and in this one for being a tool of a Pulse Fal'Cie. The question he was asking himself is if he will be able to take the fear and the anger again, he rubbed his forehead not wanting to think about that.

Hope got up" l'Cie are not human."

"Listen you, that's enough!" the red head got upset at his comment she hold his wrist where his brand was located.

"l'Cie are not human" those words echoed on the blond jinchurikki's mind.

Vanille let go of him feeling sorry for what she did, she walked away" we're still alive that's something."

"Yeah I'm glad to be alive and been here" replied the Uzumaki.

They heard the loud sound of engines roaring feeling the crystal ground shaking.

"What?" said Lightning.

"Where is it?" asked Sazh.

"I don't know" followed Hope.

"There!" the pink haired soldier spotted a group air ships passing them by.

"They're sealing off the area they're trying to stop the stragglers" replied the older Farron.

"They started sweeping the area to start the search" said Naruto.

"We've got to keep moving before we're caught in the net" said the former sergeant.

---

(Scene change)

Snow and Sasuke were still in the area where Serah was stuck to the crystalized ground. The NORA leader hasn't stopped trying to break his fiancé free since Lightning and the others left, and he didn't looked like he had any intention in stopping. The tall blond was too determined and he wasn't going to stop until her sets the younger Farron free, it wasn't just saving her his only goal. He has promised Lightning that he was going to save both Serah and Cocoon no matter what he made the promise with the intention to fulfill it. Breaking it wasn't an option even if the former GC sergeant didn't believe him she mocked him that he was nothing but talk. In her eyes she didn't saw him as someone who wasn't fit to save Cocoon since he failed in protecting her sister he was probably a failure the more reason for her to dislike him even more.

Lost in thought he was still using the piece of sharp rubble he found to break his love free. So far he hasn't done any damage to crystalized ground and he wasn't giving up, even if he was reaching exhaustion. At least he wasn't alone he took a short glance at Sasuke who was helping him. The Uchiha was using his sword to destroy the ground in order to free Serah, both of them weren't doing such a good job. The former PSICOM soldier knew that what Sazh said was true without the right tools they could digging for a while, time was something they didn't have. Remembering that the military was after them and anyone that might have survived the Purge, they were basically ordered to kill any person they encounter. The Uchiha has stopped taking a small breath he was feeling a bit tired since he started helping Snow.

"It's no use she's completely stuck in the ground the only thing that might cut through the crystal quick will be a high power laser…."

Snow panted hitting the ground hard in order to break it but still no luck. His mind brought something he has ignored since he arrived at the Vestige, now that Sasuke was here with him. The question to why he chose to stay here and help him with Serah but he felt something was not right, of course he knew the Uchiha cares for the pink haired teen. His motives were bothering the tall blond and when it came to caring for his fiancée, some jealousy was returning even when he ignored it. He wasn't the jealous type but the fact that Serah used to have a crush put that doubt in his mind, in addition to what Gadot told him.

"He might like her the same way you do…."

Those words have really messed with his mind and he knew Gadot didn't meant to bothered him with his comment, he was just being optimistic. But it was enough to explain the Uchiha's actions in staying here instead of leaving with the others, now was the right time to ask him his feelings for the younger Farron. He finally stopped in what he was doing staring at the Uchiha, he seemed to be in thought he has stopped helping him a few minutes ago.

"Hey Sasuke…?"

"Hmm….?"

"Why you didn't go with the others?"

"Like you can get Serah free by yourself…."

"Not like we're having any luck the two of us."

"Do I need to explain….?" he seemed to be annoyed.

"Maybe you should."

"I feel the same way not leaving her, Serah means a lot to me" he remembered all the times when he used to live with the younger Farron and Lightning.

The NORA leader lowered his head" she means that much to you?"

"It's not like that, she's family."

"Oh…."

"She's not my type."

"Okay…what's your type then?"

"What….?"

The question came out of nowhere leave it to Snow to bring a topic in the wrong place at the wrong time, but the Uchiha stood thinking about it. He has always focused on his revenge when he was in his world it was his priority, he didn't had time to look for a girlfriend. Living here he started dating and no female will meet his standards, same standards he didn't knew what they were. Now that someone has asked him the big question he just didn't know how to answer it, because he didn't know. This was a question hard to answer he asked himself if there was ever a type he like.

"Never giving it any thought…."

"I guess with everything that has happened you don't have time to think about that" said Snow.

"I've been too busy to be thinking about it."

"You don't know I understand you buddy but maybe you need to realize it for yourself."

"Not a clue…."

"Well if you don't like girls like Serah, then maybe you like the opposite."

The Uchiha raised an eyebrow" opposite….?"

"You know tough girls like Lightning?"

The former PSICOM soldier stood in deep thought thinking about the older Farron. A women like her who was strong and could hold her own in a fight, a strong willed woman. Maybe that was it that would explained why he didn't like any of the women he dated at Eden, they didn't met his standards. They were all too pushy and girly, and most of them were all big airheads. A strong woman who could stand her ground and doesn't give a crap what anyone thinks of her, that was probably a win in his book. Someone did came to his mind and it wasn't Lightning yes that woman was strong willed, and she could be his ideal type. She has pooped into his head right now she was a big yes, a perfect candidate she was strong and she also had the beauty to back up her strength. Just when Snow was about to ask him if he had anyone in mind his cell phone started ringing, which it was weird to NORA leader have a call all the way here.

"Expecting a call?"

"Maybe you continue here."

Sasuke left the tall blond watching him continued with breaking through the crystal to free his fiancée, even if he knew it was hopeless. Keeping his distance from the NORA leader he took his phone, he noticed it was almost out of batteries hopefully he'll be able to have this call. Gazing at the number who was calling him he felt relief maybe they'll be able to escape before PSICOM finds them.

He answered the call" where are you?"

*Aw don't tell me you have missed me?* Fang sounded amused.

"Not quite what are your coordinates?"

*Relax we're almost there but keep your guard up, PSICOM is investigating the area. Looks like they're feeling grumpy not liking how the Purge ended.*

"Like I didn't know that we already encountered some of them."

*We…who else is there with you?*

"Some people and to put it simple they've been branded by the Pulse Fal'Cie, even me…."

*Anima branded more looks like Raines was right. Are there still there with you?*

"Some already went ahead only one of them is with me, it's better this way PSICOM will have their hands full trying to find them."

*But it will be easy for them to find you, don't worry we'll be in your location shortly just try not to get too bore.*

Sasuke stood in thought before speaking again he needed to tell her about his discovery" listen….I found Vanille."

There was no answer" Fang…are you there?"

Checking on the cell phone he realized that it was out of batteries, he sighed" great…."

---

(Scene change: time skip)

It wasn't easy for the rest of the l'Cie group, for the next hour they have traveled further into the crystalized lake only to find trouble. Good news they didn't encounter anymore Breshan bass but worst, PSICOM soldiers and more mechanized units. They have fought against a squad of enforcers thanks to their new abilities they were victorious, the mechs known as watchdrones however were a pain to deal with. The small mechs moved very fast and they attack one person at a time, Lightning and Naruto had no problem fighting them since they were used to fast combat but the others didn't do well. Sazh and Vanille have gotten hurt luckily some cure did the trick, but it wouldn't cure their exhaustion.

In addition that Hope who hasn't been helping the group in battle accidentally got hurt. While they were fighting a small group of watchdrones, one of them charged at him even if the teen was keeping his distance from the fight. He felt terrible first the Alpha Behemoth was about to attack him if it weren't for Naruto to saved him, and now he got hurt. The silver haired teen felt like he was a burden on everyone he remained quiet he still couldn't through to this situation. He didn't want any of this to happened not to be sent to the Purge, not to lose his mother, and certainly not to become an l'Cie fighting was the last thing on his mind. Remembering Snow was probably enough to give him motives and harness his anger towards the NORA leader, it was a good motivation to fight though.

"You okay?"

The silver haired teen turned to Vanille smiling at him.

"Are you still hurt from before?"

"No…I'm fine you healed my wound I'm okay, thanks for worrying…."

"Okay just let me know when you're hurt."

He nodded feeling a little embarrassed he didn't helped he didn't fought with them and yet he got hurt. And to make him feel more useless Vanille ended up healing him, more negative points for him. Looking back at the red head she smiled again she looked so calm and cheery like nothing was wrong, it made him wonder if she was scared with their situation. They were targets of the Sanctum now enemies of Cocoon, surely that must make her feel scared the thought of getting killed is enough to affect anyone. The teen never realized that he was being watched since he talked to Vanille, just in front of him.

Naruto has watched their interaction with a small grin on his face it really looked sweet the way they speak to each other. It really looked like they were the best of friends he smiled turning his gaze ahead, not knowing that he was being watched by Lightning. The pink haired soldier has never seen him lowering his guard before they were in an area that it was occupied by PSICOM. They might run into more enforcers, watchdrones and who else what other things the military has sent after them. The Uzumaki did noticed she was staring at him he has turned his attention to her.

"What?"

"Keep your eyes front."

He smiled silly it felt to him that they were still in the Guardian Corps. Whenever he wasn't paying attention in his job or looking where he didn't had to the older Farron will get his attention, or scold him. Those times in the Corps where part of the wonderful memories he has forged while staying in Cocoon, memories that made him feel happy to be alive. At once he thought he couldn't live here without being with his friends back at Konoha and even if he missed them all dearly, here he was happy with the friends he made. Hopefully this new twist in his life of being an l'Cie and unable to do jutsu will be another happy moment to add in his life, he really did believe that. Looking at the group he smiled feeling like he has made more friends.

They arrived at another clearing only this time a long view at the crystalized lake and Vanille was the first to notice the view, getting ahead of the group.

"Whoa this whole place is crystal."

"I think it should be obvious by now" replied Naruto.

Lightning spotted more Sanctum air ship in the distance it was a bad sign that more trouble will be heading their way, things were going to get bad and eventually they will become worst.

"I wonder what it would be like to become crystal I mean?" asked Sazh.

"You're gonna complete your focus?" Vanille was surprised.

"Maybe if I knew what it was."

"I thought our focus is to destroy Cocoon" said the whiskered blond with a smirk.

"As long as it's not that one" replied the afro haired pilot.

The red head was in deep thought gazing at the pink haired soldier" hey Lightning did Serah said anything to you about her focus?"

The older Farron touched her necklace" nothing…."

Vanille immediately reacted trying to find a way cheer her up" you know what she'd probably didn't want to worry you."

"Or she just didn't think she could trust me" she started walking off.

"Or maybe she didn't know about her focus so there was no reason for her to tell you" said Naruto making the pink haired woman to stopped.

"Or maybe she did get one lazy vision like us about her focus but she didn't understand it. She obviously didn't tell Snow and neither did you because she quite couldn't figure it out."

The blond jicnhurikki walked to her" so you see there are plenty of reasons for her not to tell you about her focus. I'm sure it's definitely not the first choice you mentioned."

Hearing those words made Lightning feel relief and happy she wished it was like that. She couldn't get rid of the guilt in her heart and it was driving her crazy, she could still picture that moment in her mind. When she didn't believe Serah and she threatened her, she didn't trust her and now she was paying for her mistake. She put the whole blame on Snow because it felt good and she felt better, but that only increased the guilt. Because she knew the real truth even if the NORA leader didn't spit it in her face or Naruto for the matter, it was her entire fault and only hers. She gave a small smile without looking at the whiskered blond while he gently gave her shoulder a gentle squeeze, she really wished that was true.

Walking a small path ahead they encounter three watchdrones, less than the couple of times they had fought them. They have taken their attack positions beating them quickly while Hope kept his distance from the fight, this time he didn't want to get attack again. The three watchdrones were beaten quicker than usual, maybe they weren't such a threat. But the group who fought them could somehow feel that they were getting stronger little by little Vanille was well aware off she did told Sasuke the abilities of a l'Cie. If they continued to fight they will eventually grow stronger, they'll be able to survive against the Sanctum. If they live long enough to see the day that their abilities will grow without thinking of their focus most likely Cocoon's destruction, being the destroyers of this world.

After the battle Lightning suggested to take a small break before moving on, she could see it the exhaustion in most of their faces. But the break was a mistake they needed to hurry and find a way to leave this place it wasn't safe, PSICOM was patrolling the entire area. The older Farron was standing in a corner while the others were not too far from her. Hope was seated on the ground, next to him stood Vanille and Sazh gazing around holding his Chcocobo chick in his hands. Naruto chose to be next to the pink haired soldier he likes to keep her company, and in these times when they were enemies of Cocoon. He kept his eyes on her before he noticed her aqua eyes were staring into he's.

"What….?"

"Still believe Serah doesn't trust you?"

"After what you told me, I'm feeling a bit better…."

"Only a bit I was expecting you will be better one hundred percent."

"It's hard…."

"I know but believe me that Serah trusts you a lot. I do know because…she's always asking me to look after you and make sure that you don't get caught too much at work."

She turned to him surprised" Serah made you my personal caretaker?"

"Like you need someone to baby sit you" the Uzumaki grinned making her smile slightly" I always look after you because I want to in addition that I'm doing in it for Serah, she's always worrying about you that's what family do right?"

The older Farron lowered her head thinking about her younger sister, hearing that fed the guilt in her. So far Naruto was making her feel worst he wasn't helping her at all, hitting him was so tempting right now.

"Trusting someone is the same as caring right?"

"I guess…."

"She cares for you a lot more than you could ever know, don't ever doubt it."

"How could I live knowing that I was wrong all along, knowing that I didn't believe her and after what she told me….?"

She took a hold of her necklace while Naruto shook his head" what's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong…."

"I know something is up with you, whenever you're bothered by something you will touch your necklace or when you're feeling grateful. So which one is it?"

Lightning blushed he had her there she quickly released her hold on the important piece of jewelry" hmph…."

"When you're angry you will do that or say "tch" "he was smiling.

"Tch…."

"See you did it just now."

She slightly punched his shoulder making the whiskered blond chuckle.

"And when you do that you're either annoyed or embarrassed, I still don't know about the later."

"You're annoying me" she tried to remain serious but she failed because she gave a smile.

"I know but seriously never doubt it Serah cares for you as much as you care for her."

She nodded at least she was feeling better Naruto has done it again in lifting her spirits up. She turned to the rest of the group they all seemed to be better, no longer feeling tired she wasn't too sure about Hope. The silver haired teen looked unsure but honestly she didn't care, he wasn't helping them fight he was just excess baggage in this mess. They needed to keep going she will feel relief when they have left Lake Bresha and away from PSICOM, at least until planning their next move.

"Time to move…."

"Right break's over" said Naruto.

"I don't mind staying a couple of minutes more, but can't rest happily knowing that the military is hot on our trail" replied Sazh.

While some were still feeling tire from the walking they knew they had to keep going. Staying much longer will only complicate things, and they will be in greater danger. Lightning has taken the lead again with Naruto following her behind with Sazh, Vanille and Hope. They left the small path as it leads an open area where they were met by an interesting site, Lightning stopped for a moment gazing at the area. Naruto's eyes widened gazing at the large ruins in front of them, some places were crystalized and it was a very big place. None of them thought such ruins exists, judging from the structure it seemed to be very old like it had hundreds of years or more. At least Naruto and Lightning did when they took history at the military academy.

"It's beautiful!" said Vanille in awe.

"Yeah this place looks very old" replied Naruto.

"Think we'll find something that will get us out of here?" asked Sazh.

"Maybe" said the Uzumaki.

"You think it's safe here?" asked a nervous Hope.

"No place is safe. PSICOM has probably taken over this area too" said Lightning.

Climbing the long stair case leading to inside of the ruins they were met by a familiar enemy. As soon as they arrived they spotted another Alpha Behemoth patrolling the area, Lightning was right that the military have the ruins under their control. It proved her point that nowhere was going to be a safe place if you're a Purge survivor or an l'Cie, fight to survive or die trying. They were planning in using the same strategy they used before remembering its elemental weakness to fire and water. Lightning gazed at Naruto giving him a nod, he nodded back and signaled to Sazh and Vanille to get ready to come out and face the militarized unit. Hope stood again not wanting to get involved in the fight, he felt Naruto's hand touching his shoulder.

"Wait here we'll take care of things."

Using the same strategy with Naruto and Lightning using physical attacks and Sazh and Vanille providing the magic offensive with fire and water, they fired away at the mechanized Behemoth. The Behemoth charged with its claws both soldiers were fast to dodge it away, both made sure that it didn't changed targets. They were making sure that it was only attacking them and not their comrades firing with magic or even Hope. Slashing at it while changing their gun blades firing their bullets along with the magical damage was doing a lot of harm to the mechanical Behemoth, it charged with its claws while it was charging for its heave attacks it was still at twenty five percent. Once it was damage enough Lightning cast thunder and Naruto casted aero, as both attacks hit the Alpha Behemoth head on.

The combination of the attacks were too much for the Behemoth to take, it eventually malfunctioned hitting the ground. Luckily for the group it didn't exploded like the last one they fought if the ruins were already filled with PSICOM forces, then they didn't heard the sounds of the battle. Maybe they were unaware that hostiles have entered the area no doubt an explosion would have gotten their attention. After the battle was over Hope went to the group his eyes were on Naruto and Lightning, he was staring at them as they fought. Their movements were fast and their attacks were strong, the one thing that amazed him was the way they move like they were dancing. It almost felt like they could read each other's moves perfectly, it seems both have sparred together for a long time.

"More PSICOM forces ahead, obviously" said Naruto.

"More like them" Lightning pointed to the downed Alpha Behemoth.

"Or maybe worst" added the blond jinchurikki.

"Hey come on let's not be negative, maybe they won't be too many of them" said Sazh.

"You saw all the squads they deployed, they're serious they won't stop until they take us all out" said the whiskered blond.

"What should we do?" asked Hope.

"Maybe we should go back the way we came" Vanille said.

"We move forward" replied the former GC sergeant.

"Lightning I think we should think this through before going any further" said Naruto.

"What do you have in mind?" asked the pink haired soldier.

"We both know that there could be a lot PSICOM forces here, maybe too many for us to handle. I have a plan I think it's time to test the device Sasuke gave me."

Everyone saw as the Uzumaki took a metal device in the shape of an armband from his pack" I knew this was going to come useful, this is the best time to use it."

"What's that?" asked Sazh.

"Stealth camouflage…."

"Bad move PSICOM will use their thermal heat sensors to locate you" Lightning said.

"Sasuke told me that this is the latest stealth camouflage and it can't be track by thermal heat sensors."

"That means you're holding some piece of valuable Sanctum technology there" replied the afro haired pilot.

"Yep you can thank Sasuke for that, Lightning move when the coast is clear I'll handle this."

The pink haired soldier frowned crossing her arms" I don't approve of this plan you're fighting PSICOM on your own. With or without stealth camouflage it's reckless."

"I think you don't approve of you not fighting them" the Uzumaki gave a smirk.

She knew he was right she didn't change her expression" it's still reckless…."

"I'll be fine I'm always careful."

"No you're not" she replied in a scolding tone she knew him better than that.

"Well here I go."

He put the armband device pressing a button he suddenly vanished in front of the group.

"Wow he's gone!" Vanille was in awe.

"I'm still here" replied the blond jinchurikki still standing in the same spot.

"You sound like you have never seen or hear about stealth camouflage technology before" said Sazh.

"I guess" she smiled.

"It's weird for you not to, but this kind of technology is used by top officials in the Sanctum for stealth missions" replied the afro haired man.

"All right I'm going Lightning keep close watch to advance."

"Don't do anything stupid" said the pink haired soldier.

"It's me what do you think?" he laughed leaving.

She sighed" right….he's the one stupid enough to take on an entire PSICOM squadron by himself."

She turned to the group" let's go we stay low."

They went hiding in a pile of rubble giving them enough room to hide. Lightning took a gaze watching three watchdrones and a PSICOM ranger patrolling the area just like the Alpha Behemoth at the entrance to the ruins. Nothing has happened they were still on guard duty when one of the watchdrones was slashed in half getting destroyed the remaining enemy forces reacted in attack formation. The PSICOM ranger fired his rifle but he couldn't see the attacker, he gasped watching another watchdrone getting slash in half. The last one was shot five times falling to the ground defeated, the last enemy was freaking out he reached for his communicator as a last act of desperation.

"This is eagle two hostile found he seems to be using stealth camouflage, my thermal sensors doesn't seem to be locating anything. Calling all forces-"

The ranger was sent flying by an aero spell hitting a pillar hard, even with his armor he was killed by the strong impact. The former GC sergeant nodded to the group that it was all right to continue moving when they were beaten, she knew Naruto has already went ahead checking for more enemy forces. They crossed a bridge made from a piece that it was similar to the structure of the Vestige arriving on the top the pink haired soldier halted the group stop. She saw two PSICOM rangers and another mechanized unit, the next model after the Myrmidon a Crusader. She was curtained now, PSICOM was starting to get desperate and they wanted to end this for good, it explained with how many militarized units they have deployed for this mission. The entire ruins were crawling with PSICOM units, leaving this place with their lives wasn't going to be easy.

The camouflaged Naruto slashed one ranger while shooting the other, the Crusader was aware that they were under attack but it was unable to locate the attacker. The mechanized unit got attacked, and then it was hit by aero coming from the blond jinchurikki but it wasn't enough to bring it down. Lightning couldn't take it anymore she wasn't letting the blond fight on his own, not while she was still here. She unsheathed her Blazefire saber and charged at the mech, Sazh and Vanille followed her they weren't letting her fight on her own either. Hope watched from the safe distance as, the three l'Cie attacked the Crusader. Sazh used fire while Vanille used water, Lightning used thunder followed by blitz the camouflage Naruto used aero and blitz too.

The pink haired soldier jumped aiming her gun blade at the Crusader's head with one straight shot it penetrated its mechanical part. The militarized unit malfunctioned as it fell to the ground shutting down its system, she sheathed back her weapon. She felt relief that it didn't exploded, the noise will get the attention from more enemies who knows how many of these things were present here. Hope arrived reuniting with the group now that the fight was over he was feeling a bit different. He was starting to feel motivated to fight after watching Lightning and Naruto fight.

"Lightning what are you doing I had everything under control?" asked the stealth Naruto.

"You can do whatever you like, I'm not staying in the side lines doing nothing" she frowned.

"Sure like I wasn't expecting you to just stay and watch" the whiskered blond knew her better than that, she was never the person to miss a fight.

"I'm only making it easier for us to get through this place and possibly go to a safe place, away from here."

"There's more three o' clock" the pink haired soldier drew her gun blade.

"I see them" the camouflage Naruto spotted another crusader with one ranger.

The blond jinchurikki charged using blitz on the ranger, followed by a roundhouse kick taking him down. He used aero on the crusader while Lightning took the chance that it wasn't looking her way, to attack it. She followed doing the same thing she did with the last one, she jumped at it only difference she stabbed her Blazefire saber deeply into the mech's head. She removed it changing it to gun mode and fired a couple of round decapitating the mechanized unit. It looks like she didn't needed help on this one, but the way she destroyed the crusader was so bad ass it made Sazh and Hope had their mouths wide open. Naruto was thankful he had the steal camouflage on so no one saw him blushing, after watching the strong soldier in action she looks so good when she was fighting.

"I'm going ahead again."

The Uzumaki followed the path and further ahead he saw there was another Crusader with two PSICOM rangers. He has gotten an idea that will save time and energy from fighting, he has come prepare to fight the Sanctum since he mad out his mind to save Serah. From his pack he took a hand grenade it was the same kind of model that Snow used, he got closer and they couldn't see him due to his stealth camouflage. He threw the grenade right in the middle of the crusader the impact will be enough to take them all out. It exploded killing the rangers and busting the militarized unit completely, the fight was easy he didn't have to waste time and energy fighting them. As he moved on Lightning saw what he did and didn't approve of the course of action, the explosion was loud enough to get the attention of more soldiers.

The blond jinchurikki walked on arriving at a small opening in a pile of rubble, it looked accessible" guys I think we can get through here!"

The Uzumaki went ahead as the group approached the small opening. Lightning kept her eyes around the ruins there was a path ahead but there tons of soldiers in that direction. Fighting them was no big deal for her but probably for the rest of the group, it was better this way to avoid battles they could simply avoid. She signaled for the others to enter the opening and follow the camouflage Naruto, they went first before she was the last to enter. As soon as she landed on the other side of the ruins there was trouble already ahead, a total of four opponents. Two PSICOM trackers, one ranger and one executioner she glared at the executioner clad in gold armor. Executioners are supposed next in rank after the Marauder, they were skilled in combat and most of them were given command of small squads.

This time Lightning wasn't going to let him take them on all on his own, even if they couldn't see him. The stealth camouflage has helped them a lot but it didn't he had to fight alone, she will aid him because they will always fight together. Since they became soldier of the Guardian Corps they will always fight together as a team, when she was a sergeant she will always give him the order to back her up. It didn't matter if they weren't no longer with the GC they will still fight as a team, more importantly now that they were enemies to Cocoon. As she ran Sazh and Vanille were with her heading for the fight too, even if they weren't as strong as her they were still reliable she felt like she could count on them. Trusting them was a different story since the only person of the l'Cie group she trusted with her life was Naruto, because she knew him too well she basically grew up with him.

The camouflage blond has taken the ranger out with his gun blade and using aero. Lightning had her sights on the two trackers, by now they have spotted her and her two comrades. They went to attack position as they charged at her holding their batons, she used blitz on both of them as Vanille used water and aero getting a direct hit on them. Sazh used fire and flamestrike at the executioner it hit him but it wasn't enough to take him out, he charged at the afro haired pilot. The pink haired soldier interfered getting in front of the dark skinned man, her eyes widened she couldn't react in time for the incoming blow. The executioner used his long staff to attack but it never hit her, it hit something else. A blitz technique hit him from out of nowhere giving time for the former sergeant to counter attack, she used thunder while an aero spell was fired hitting the executioner head on.

Lightning wasn't done yet she charged at him and gave him a deep cut from her gun blade. She finished him off with a shot changing it to gun blade, the battle was over as Sazh and Vanille reunited feeling relief that it was over. Hope went to the group a little later while the pink haired soldier gave a small smile knowing who saved her from getting attacked by the executioner. She couldn't see him but she was thankful he was there for her, like he has always been.

"Thanks…."

"No problem I knew you were going to join the fight this time" said Naruto.

"This is a lot easier thanks to you, maybe we should let you fight all the battles" said Sazh.

His comment only earned him a glare from the pink haired soldier that was the last thing she was doing. The afro haired man took a step back after seeing her glare if looks could kill he would have been dead long ago. They resumed walking and once they noticed that the coast was clear Naruto deactivated the stealth camouflage appearing in front of the group. Smiling happily that the device has worked and that it was of great help the others were surprised to see him all of the sudden, while the pink haired soldier seemed to be in thought. She was staring at the ground but somehow, she didn't seem to be happy.

"You were great Naruto!" said Vanille.

"You've been of great help to us" replied Sazh.

"Can I be like him?" Hope starred at the whiskered blond feeling like he needed to give it his best.

"Come on guys that's enough you're embarrassing me" he blushed slightly while scratching the back of his head.

"Naruto….?" Lightning said in a serious tone.

"Hmm…what's wrong?" he turned to her looking worried.

She glared at him tightening her fist" did you just touch my butt?"

"What….?"

"I felt a hand on my butt, and there was no one behind me" her tone was icy cold.

The blond jinchurikki turned pale not believing she realized since he touched her bottom slightly, but he felt like he wanted to give it a nice squeeze. Lightning's butt was round and from the feel he got it was soft, if only he could one day touch it freely without her giving him the death threat. He turned to the other Vanille and Hope looked embarrassed while Sazh just shook his head thinking that he has made a big mistake, it will probably cost his life.

"Well you see that was just an accident because while I was fighting, my hand accidentally slipped touching your booty…I mean your butt it's not like I wanted to" he sweat dropped it was truly a stupid excuse.

Everyone sweat dropped at his excuse.

"You…." she has tightened her fists looking really upset.

The blond sighed because he knew she will never believe his dumb lie" just get it over with."

SMACK!

The blond jinchurikki fell on the ground with another lump on his head while the others sighed, he did had it coming for being a pervert. The older Farron gave a frustrated sigh before leaving taking the lead, her cheeks had a shade of pink feeling embarrassed at his perverted yet bold move. Not like she like his advance move but it was too sudden for him to be groping her, maybe if they ever had a chance to be together then she probably won't mind those kinds of moves. Naruto has immediately got up sighing regretting of doing such thing, but maybe it was worth it remembering feeling her soft behind. He repressed giving a perverted giggle he didn't care that Lightning didn't have big breast, or that her legs were a bit skinny. She was the most beautiful woman in all of Cocoon, no one could compare to her beauty.

"Son next time make a better excuse" said Sazh.

"Yeah….I guess…."

"Sazh don't encourage him to do it again, what you did was naughty and incorrect Naruto you should be ashamed of yourself" Vanille scolded.

"I touched Lightning's booty so I'm not that ashamed" the blond mentally grinned.

"You know something's making the hairs on my neck to stand up."

"You've got to stop worrying Sazh" replied the red head.

"I have a bad feeling" said Hope.

"You're not the only one, I feel like something's bad is going to happen" said the Uzumaki.

"Stop worrying too much you guys, we out run 'em we'll be okay now" replied the red head.

Lightning climbed a long stair case leading up with the group following behind her. When they arrived they were in a large clearing getting a perfect view of the Bresha ruins, and it was perfect. They were in awe at the sight it was truly beautiful, however the former soldiers remember that they were still not safe until they leave this place. They resumed their walking while Naruto was still having his bad feeling something told him they were not out of this mess yet.

"Wow!" Vanille reacted to the view.

As they walked the large area Vanille started running off from the group feeling exploring the area more.

"Stay close" Lightning said.

"I want to look around."

She didn't approve of her behavior she knew this place wasn't safe there were probably more PSICOM's forces she acted more like a child than a nineteen year old. They couldn't lower their guard or wander off when they needed to keep their guard up and stay together, she turned to Naruto the Uzumaki was quiet in thought. She thought that maybe he was hurt for her outburst for the incident of his touching her butt, but maybe there was something else. Not wanting to think about that embarrassing moment she turned to look around feeling like not giving up if they could leave Lake Bresha, to safety.

Vanille walked ahead smiling at the beauty of the place, so far she has never seen something beautiful in Cocoon. Somehow the structure of the ruins reminded her of some of the temples from her home land, they were similar to a few buildings in Pulse. As she continued to walk she felt something passing her, when she looked above she gasped. She ran away returning to the group all scared.

"Vanille!" Hope shouted.

"Over here!" Sazh shouted a she got behind the afro haired man.

They stared at a flying creature colored blue with gray, Lightning and Naruto recognized it. They have heard rumors about it from when they were in the Guardian Corps. It was a bio weapon by the name of Garuda Interceptor it's supposed to be one of PSICOM's top projects. The only thing the former soldiers knew of the creature is that its attacks are lightning based, they prepared their weapons ready to fight the bio creature.

"Looks like PSICOM is finally serious" said Sazh.

Naruto took his Flashflare saber" I can't believe they would send this thing after us, we're that big of a threat."

"What would you expect we're Pulse l'Cie?" Lightning took her Blazefire saber ready for the fight.

"Everyone it uses lighting base attacks, so let's be careful!" shouted the Uzumaki.

"Time for libra" Vanille casted the technique on the beast getting the information, they needed.

"Garudan Interceptor its strength is lightning and weakness is wind."

"Time for aero then" said the whiskered blond.

As the battle began three members of the group chose to use magic, Naruto, Sazh and Vanille. Their attacks were more effective since they were using aero, Sazh was using fire and flamestrike. Lightning chose physical combat using, attacking it in the air while shooting at it. She realized bullets weren't doing much damage so she chooses to use her gun blade in saber mode, the attacks were more effective. The Garudan Interceptor used launch charging lowering altitude, Naruto took the blow for Sazh and Vanille making them gasped at the whole thing. The blond soldier was doing everything he could to protect them from harm he wasn't worried he knew the Kyuubi will heal any injury he had.

The battle turned to be in their favor winning in numbers and in strength. The winged creature was using the same attack over again and the group was dodging it, this time they weren't planning in letting Naruto take the hits for them. Lightning got worried when Naruto got hit but she knew he will be all right, he could handle it she reminded herself to focus on the battle. She wasn't worry about the fight they had it in the bag the bio creature wasn't putting much of a challenge. It won't be long before the creature will be beaten, although it was suspicious why it wasn't as tough as it looked. After a couple of minutes the Garudan interceptor started retreating taking higher ground, flying away from the group.

"It's charging up" Lightning said.

"Charging what are you talking about charging for what?" asked Sazh.

"Its last moments…."

"Right we can beat it no matter what attack it throws at us!" said Naruto.

The creature used its barrier technique filling its body with lightning, the winged started firing lighting thanks to the barrier protecting its body. The battle became tougher once the bio weapon activated its barrier all attacks weren't harming it like last time, its defense has increased. It fired another lighting attack hitting Naruto he was sent back as Lightning jumped attacking with her gun blade, it didn't harm it much. They couldn't believe how strong the bio creature has become while they were trying to dodge its lightning attacks, and other getting hurt by it Vanille was already casting cure on the wounded allies. It got worse when the Garuda flew high in the air preparing to fire a powerful attack, at the entire group.

Lightning and Naruto's eyes widened at the size of the attack from the looks of it, it looks strong enough to kill everyone or everything in sight.

"Run!" shouted the pink haired soldier.

The group ran in panic as the winged creature fired it hellstorm bolt, the blast hit the ground destroying part of it. They stared at the crater it created showing the attacks destructive power they knew first hand, if they get hit by that they'll be goners. After it fired the powerful attack the Garuda seemed to have lost its barrier showing to the group that it took a lot of lightning from its barrier, in order to fire it. They took the offensive again and it was their chance to strike, the bio weapon seemed to have lowered its guard. They went with the same strategy attacking with aero and Lightning focusing on physical attacks and the winged creature was now getting harm like usual, without its barrier it was vulnerable to their attacks.

But they knew they had to finish it fast before it gathers enough strength to cast its barrier again. Attacking with everything they have the group increased the speed of their spells and physical attacks, the Garuda has used its charge attack but it wasn't being very effective compared to its lightning beam and hellstorm bolt. Naruto has gotten an idea while dodging its charge attack, it was a bit reckless but if he was correct it will be effective enough to beat the bio weapon. The blond jicnhurikki took his time waiting for the winged creature to descend because of his tackle attack, the Garuda did it again and this time he didn't dodge it. The group gasped in shocked as they witnessed the whiskered blond jumping on the Garuda landing on top of it, he was riding the creature like he was its owner.

"What is that idiot doing?" thought Lightning.

"Naruto!" shouted Vanille.

"Okay kids' finally gone crazy" said Sazh.

"Guys attack it now, I while attack it from up here!"

"That's crazy!" the pink haired soldier gave a frown.

"Just do it!"

They didn't argue anymore and they resumed attacking it with the same strategy. The Garuda was having trouble defending itself due that it was focusing, in trying to get Naruto off its back. Without defending itself it was now a living target to the attacks of the l'Cie group it was getting beaten badly. After taking too much punishment, it couldn't take it anymore the Garudan Interceptor started falling losing altitude. It crash landed hard on the ground as the group has kept their distance from the bio weapon while the Uzumaki was panting keeping his gaze on the creature. The group slowly walked towards it when they saw it moving, they got into attack position, but it didn't lasted. The Garudan fell to the ground dead it was finally defeated while Naruto was grinning getting off the winged creature.

"We did it!" said Vanille.

"Yeah that's one victory for the l'Cie" Sazh joked in a sarcastic matter.

Hope went to the group staring at the fallen Garudan his eyes were wide. He has witnessed the entire fight and couldn't believe they were able to beat the bio weapon. His eyes were on the whiskered blond, he was the one who gave them the edge to defeat it.

"They did it….they actually did it, and he…."

Naruto smiled looking at Lightning walking to him" we did it-"

SMACK!

The Uzumaki fell to the ground with another lump appearing on his head, it went straight to the lumps record list in his diary.

"You idiot what were you thinking?" she was frowning hiding her concern that she was worried about him.

The whiskered blond got up with a silly grin" it was a good plan, with me on top of it he won't have the chance to attack. It will be focusing on me and that was what we needed to get it into the open and attack it without having the chance to use that barrier or those lightning attacks."

"You gotta admit that plan was really effective" said Sazh.

"It was reckless" the former sergeant was still frowning.

"What about you?" the Uzumaki smirked" you remember "nice gun" taking all of those soldiers by yourself if it weren't for me and Sasuke to interfered, one of them would have shot you."

"I knew what I was doing."

"Well so am I!"

"Hmph…."

"You're worried but I'm okay I'm not hurt."

"I'm not" she turned her back hiding her concern again while the blond was smiling at her.

Vanille smiled running ahead" hey guys check it out!"

They saw that the red head was pointing to a Sanctum air ship at the end of the ruins, which it was a little suspicious to what it was doing here.

"That's our ticket out of here" Naruto said feeling relief that they didn't come here for nothing.

"Come on hop to it, let's go" said Sazh.

As they started walking heading to the ship they never realized they were being watched. In one of the pillars stood the silver owl who witnessed everything since they started fighting the Garuda Interceptor.

The red head smiled staring at the ship" this will make things easier."

"Yeah, knowing our luck it's probably missing an engine" said Sazh.

"You shouldn't be so negative" scolded the red head.

"And you shouldn't get your hopes up."

"What are you talking about Hope is right here?" Naruto pointed to the silver haired teen making him laughed a little.

"Funny" said the afro haired man.

"But seriously what if instead of having a missing engine it has a bomb in it, and that was point of having it here. When we get aboard it will detonate and boom."

Everyone stopped dead in their tracks staring at the whiskered blond with shocked expressions making him sweat dropped.

"I'm….just saying you know."

"You shouldn't be so negative!" Sazh, Vanille and Hope said.

"Okay my bad."

As they walked towards Naruto stood in his place not wanting like getting aboard it taking his suggestion too seriously. That is until Lightning took his hand and started dragging him towards the ship while he was being a little unsure in boarding it.

"Lightning…?"

"Get moving…."

"But the ship….?"

"If it blows up we'll blame you for it."

"Geez that makes me feel a lot better."

As they left the silver owl spread his wings and took off.

---

(Scene change)

(Location: a silent maelstrom Lake Bresha)

Snow panted taking a small break he was still holding the piece of steel he was using to break Serah free from the ground. After hours of hard trying he hasn't been able to break through, the crystal was too solid to be broken by a simple sharp thing. The NORA leader was exhausted he wasn't being stubborn to admit, this was the first time he was taking a break he didn't even know how long has it been since Lightning and the others left. The tall blond too a look at his crystalized fiancée looking so innocent in her praying position, he reminded of his promise to her and Lightning he wasn't stopping now. Not until she was freed from this both prisons, he ended the break and resumed breaking the ground.

Sasuke on the other hand has stopped helping the blond for a while now. Not that he didn't want to help him because he has pretty much given up in breaking the younger Farron from the ground it was obvious that it was impossible to break the crystal without using high tech tools. He stood there in thought waiting, probably for PSICOM to find them or maybe someone else. He was waiting that the Sanctum Corps will arrive any minute now to get them out of here they will be in big trouble if PSICOM finds them first. The Uchiha was getting a bit inpatient they've been here for hours and still nothing, he heard the sounds of engines coming from the air. To his tragedy it wasn't what he was expecting, it made him frown.

"They've found us…."

Snow turned to see a couple of PSICOM ships passing them by, a light hit him and the Uchiha. Three Havoc skytanks were flying in their direction they have found one of the targets they've been looking for. However the NORA leader ignored their presence and resumed his digging while Sasuke was ready to fight for any incoming soldiers they will sent at them.

"Sweep team to base. L'Cie's spotted I repeat, l'Cie's spotted."

"Pulse l'Cie's confirmed."

Snow finally had it stopping he turned to the large air ships" you're gonna lend me a hand or what?"

"Don't waste your breath" Sasuke said helping him was the last thing they wanted to do.

From one of the Havoc skytanks a squad of PSICOM rangers landed safely on the ground using anti-gravity shields. They surrounded the two l'Cie pointing their rifles at them, it looked like they had nowhere to run or hide.

"Commencing clean up protocol."

"You mean murder protocol?" said the Uchiha.

"That's him" said one of the rangers.

"Sasuke Uchiha former PSICOM elite and second in command of the Eden task force, also former security chief of the Euride Gorge energy plant, your betrayal to the Sanctum will be punishable through death."

"You want me to cry about it?"

"We want you to die!"

"It is more reasonable you're punishment since you're now a Pulse l'Cie."

"Hn…."

Snow grinned" hey Sasuke let's help them with the cleanup."

"Fine by me" the Uchiha gave a grin.

He threw the steel piece he was using at one of the rangers hitting it head on, while Sasuke charged quickly striking with Masamune killing one of them. Snow jumped hitting another soldier they were definitely a couple of rookies who had no battle experience whatsoever. More rangers arrived to back up the other squad while the former PSICOM soldier charged, striking with his speed killing two. He cut one rifle in half and used fire to burn another. The NORA leader kicked of rifle from one of them followed by a punch he used ruin on others more. The Uchiha was doing the same killing soldiers left and right, he used fire again to burn others through their armor. He felt sorry for them they were nothing but rookies who barely knew how to fire a weapon.

Although they were winning and they had the advantage in the fight, things got complicated. From the other Havoc skytanks more PSICOM rangers were falling to back up the other squads, their numbers have doubled. Snow glared at the backup they weren't making this easy he could take them on but now, he had some second thoughts. Exhaustion, he was tired from trying to break Serah free for too long he tried so hard only to fail. Now his exhaustion was getting the better of him and he didn't know how long he will be able to fight the soldiers, even with help from Sasuke he wasn't going to make it. Finally the trench coat blond fell on his knees panting heavily, the PSICOM rangers have surrounded him.

"Snow!" Sasuke shouted as he took down another soldier.

He was about to help him but he was stop by a large group of rangers, he hold Masamune tightly.

"Freeze!"

"Don't make another move or we'll shoot!"

"Damn it this is not good…."

Snow resumed his panting and the soldiers gasped when his l'Cie brand started glowing in a bright blue light. A blue circle was formed in front of the blond it started lifting itself high above them.

"What's he doing?"

"Watch yourself!"

"Stay alert!"

"What's happening?" thought Sasuke.

The blue circle exploded revealing two mechanical beings which their facial expressions seemed to be female. One of them threw a wheel glowing with ice it created a storm as it took every single ranger down. Both Snow and Sasuke were shocked at the sight, not even both of them couldn't brought an entire squadron of PSICOM soldiers so quickly. Both could also feel the power that it was emitting from the two beings before them.

"What are they?" thought the Uchiha in awe.

"What's happening?" asked the NORA leader while holding his brand.

The two beings stared at him as one of them cast the spell doom of him. The blond gasped when the spell hit him before his eyes he could hear his heartbeat clearly, along with a countdown of seventeen minutes and counting. He had bad feeling and didn't wanted to know what will happen if the timer reaches cero, he was attacked by one of the mechanical being using a wheel. He hit the ground and he was healed by the other being he casted cure on him, this made him confused why would she bothered healing him in the first place. The tall blond was attacked again by the same moves of the female being using the wheel falling to the ground, once more the other being cast cure on him. Sasuke stood watching not too far from their location he knew the being saw him, but they were only focused on the NORA leader.

"What's going on…why are they only attacking Snow?"

"The twin sisters…."

Sasuke turned to see Fang next to him, behind them stood Rydgea and a squad of Cavalry soldiers. The Uchiha wasn't happy that they arrived after PSICOM found them.

"You're late."

"And looks like we got here just in time, that guy is in a lot of trouble" Fang was obviously referring to Snow.

"You called them the twin sisters….do you know what they are?"

The Pulsian warrior nodded" they're Eidolons."

"Eidolons….?"

"Legends from Gran Pulse tell that Eidolons, mysterious beings appeared to a few chosen l'Cie. According to the legends they give the l'Cie a trial of life and death…."

"So right now Snow is-"

"He's being chosen by the twin sisters and right now they have started their trial on him."

"Do you know what the trial is?"

"Not a clue mate, but he better figure it out because if he doesn't then….."

"What will happen if he wins?"

"If he wins the trial then he'll be able to tame their power and he will have them as his allies, they will fight with him whenever he calls for their aid."

"Like a summon?" the Uchiha was already familiar with the term because he has heard of the summoning jutsu, and also because Naruto learned the technique.

"Yeah I guess that's the best way to call it" Fang gave a small grin.

"And if he loses….?"

The Pulsian warrior's face changed to a serious expression" let's hope it doesn't come to that."

"He'll die" the Uchiha's gaze was on Snow.

"I did mention it's a life and death trial."

"Only a few l'Cie are chosen, what about you-do you have one too?"

"An Eidolon you mean, nope I don't have one not yet who knows?"

"Snow…you better figure it out what their trial is. I don't want Serah to get heartbroken because her fiancée died."

The NORA leader sent to the ground again, the same happened next as he was healed by the other Eidolon. He glared charging again punching the Eidolon holding the wheel but his attacks weren't harming it greatly, he was caught in another assault by the Eidolon. As he falls to the ground he was healed again now it was getting annoying their actions were confusing, he was getting attacked and healed. It felt like they were mocking him or making fun of him, there was no end to this fight until his timer reaches cero. There was no point attacking if it wasn't receiving too much damage, the same with getting attack and the get heal the next minute.

"Come on what do they want with me, what are they trying to do with attacking me and healing me?"

Then it hit him attacking was useless there was one thing he could do in order to survive the assault. He decided to use his new defense abilities, when he became an l'Cie he got techniques to increase his defense. Abilities that will help him resist damage more than the other members of the group this whole thing was probably some test. Why they were testing him he had no idea, if the two Eidolons wanted him dead they would have done so like they did to the PSICOM rangers. As the Eidolon holding the wheel went to attack him again, he quickly used steelguard resisting the damage. The tall blond gave a grin until the other Eidolon that was healing chose to attack with offensive magic, it casted blizarra.

Snow gritted his teeth feeling the cold attack but thanks to steelguard he didn't received too much damage, he was fine for now. He kept doing the same thing until he could no longer stand up, which it could be arrange because he was really tired. He didn't care anymore he will continued to use his defense against their attacks he was determined to end this. Too many things were at stake if he fails, not seeing Serah again was one of them that was not going to happen. The Eidolon kept on attacking while the other one cast blizarra again, and the blond endured all of the attacks even if things looked hopeless. The NORA leader activated steelguard again ready for another assault by the two female Eidolons he took all of their attacks and endured the pain and the damage.

"What is he doing attacking them is pointless, defending is the same thing?" thought Sasuke still watching the fight.

"He's in a pinch" said Fang.

"He better survive, we need him alive" Rydgea said.

"Right mate Raines won't like it, if we hand him a dead l'Cie" replied the Pulsian warrior.

"Has he figured out their trial…taking their attacks is not an option but…."

The Uchiha eyes widened" that's it…."

"What's it?" asked Fang.

"I think I have figure out their trial."

"You do?"

"If I'm right then Snow we'll be fine."

Snow was starting to get desperate there were only two minutes in the counter. He could feel his heart beat getting faster with each minute passed, his end was near. Using steelguard to take their attacks was the only thing he had left as a last resort and it looked like it wasn't working. If he dies here then everything will be meaningless, his promise to Serah and Lightning, saving Cocoon everything. He refused to die here he had too many things to accomplish here he glared at the Eidolons attacking him. Just when he thought everything was lost for him the two Eidolons have stopped attacking, when his timer was in thirty seconds.

"What's going on why did they stop?"

(That should be enough you have proven yourself worthy to have our power.)

"What….I can hear them talking in my head….?"

(Snow Villiers our power is yours, claim it and we will fight by your side whenever you may need us.)

(It is official Nyx he's our master.)

(That is correct sister Styx.)

(We the Shiva sisters shall obey your command.)

"Shiva!"

The two sisters have joined together forming something new, the two Eidolons have transformed into a motorcycle. Snow mounted the Shiva cycle taming the power of his Eidolon for his own, while everyone has witnessed the entire thing.

Fang grinned" looks like he passed the Eidolon's trial."

"What…they've transformed into a vehicle but how?" Sasuke was shocked at the sight.

"That's the Eidolon's gestalt mode."

"Gestalt mode….?"

"When the l'Cie that passes the trial the Eidolon vows his power to the l'Cie and ends up taming the Eidolon's power that's when it will change into its gestalt mode. The l'Cie will have the ability to call forth the Eidolon whenever he needs its helps."

"Are all Eidolons gestalt mode are the same?"

"That's hard to answer, this is the first time I'm seeing an Eidolon so I can't tell you if all gestalt modes are the same. Maybe they're different than others" replied the female warrior.

The Uchiha stood in thought watching Snow with his new Eidolon and ally" Eidolons are truly powerful summons, maybe stronger than the ones summon by the summoning jutsu…."

The Shiva cycle vanished and it was replaced by a blue crystal in shape of a snowflake. The small crystal went to his l'Cie brand which it was still glowing he ended up collapsing on the ground it was the moment the Cavalry was waiting for. Rydgea has taken the squad and went to the fallen blond surrounding him pointing their rifles at him. Sasuke and Fang and followed them getting in front of him.

"Got to hand it to you for taking the twin sisters down, but don't gloat just yet. Might come a time you wish you'd let 'em end it and made things easy" Fang pointed her red lance at him.

Snow opened his eyes gazing at the female warrior and the blue armored soldiers" more of you huh….?"

"He's coming with us he's an l'Cie" replied the Uchiha.

"What?" the NORA leader was shocked" what's going on Sasuke I thought you quit the military?"

"I did…."

"Back off" he tried to move but he couldn't due to exhaustion.

Fang went to him" you want to keep breathing, shut up and come quiet."

"I'd do as she says" said Sasuke.

The female warrior hit the tall blond on his head knocking him out cold. The Uchiha nodded knowing what he had to do since he was an l'Cie too, no choice but to come with them too. It was better this way staying here waiting for PSICOM or anyone else looking to claim his head, this choice was safer and wiser.

After thirty minutes they were able to break the crystalized Serah from the ground using a high tech laser. A couple of watchdrones were carrying her while they were heading to an air ship. Two soldiers were carrying the unconscious Snow that he was starting to wake up from his short slumber, his eyes widened as he saw his fiancée being carried off.

"Serah….Serah!"

"Shut it!" said a soldier pointing his rifle.

"She's been taken to a safer place" said Sasuke.

"Stand down" Fang made the soldier put his rifle down she signaled the soldiers to take him away.

As the took him away Snow noticed the white marked on her right shoulder, but it was clear that it was a l'Cie brand.

"You too why are you helping them?"

"If I were you I'd worry about myself."

"He'll find out in time" replied the Uchiha.

"Don't forget you're coming too" she went closer taking a look at his brand opening his neck collar" now we can do this the easy way or the hard way."

"I was the one that signaled Raines to pick us up you can drop the act now."

"You're no fun. But at least I can say welcome to the team."

"Go team."

She laughed at his sarcastic tone. Both started walking off heading for the air ship following Rydgea and the other Cavalry soldiers. Sasuke knew he needed to tell Fang that he found Vanille and that she was currently far away from Lake Bresha, he has lost her but he knew she was going to be all right if she was with Lightning and Naruto. Now he thought of the hard part of telling the Pulsian warrior how close she was to be reunited with her friend. The one thing that really bothered him or more like angers him is the fact that he was unable to perform jutsu. Worst of all his sharingan was gone and he felt like he was no longer an Uchiha but a tool of the Fal'Cie, no longer like he was the last of his clan that thought angered him beyond anything.

---

To be continued

Finally the chapter is done and it took me a little longer than usual to finish. I want to thank everyone who are still reviewing the story it means a lot to me that you all are. Some weren't happy with the idea of Naruto and Sasuke not having jutsu and some of you were pleased with my idea but I have decided to recreate those jutsu using magic. You will understand what I'm talking about in future chapters. Now to a certain reviewer I have an answer for you about your last review, I will answer it truthfully.

BleedandDreamz: you say that without their jutsu Naruto and Sasuke are OC in the story well I have to disagree. A jutsu doesn't make a character its only part of their strength what makes a character who he is it's his personality. Naruto is who he is not because of rasengan it's because his personality, that happy, social, goofy person who wants to become strong to protect the people he loves. Reminding himself of the great burden he carries of Kyuubi. He's now carrying another burden being an l'Cie as a small spoiler Naruto will be bothered about this in further chapters because he's going to be hated again, and this time not for being a jinchurikki but for being an l'Cie.

The same with Sasuke he's cold, arrogant and emo but in the story he has come to treasure the bonds he has forge with everyone who became his friend. As a small spoiler he's still bothered with revenge, he still hasn't move on from fulfilling it completely. I am planning in giving resolve to his revenge for good and Fang will be the key for that happening (another small spoiler).

Now here's a list of confirmed spoilers that will be happening in further chapters in the story.

-Naruto's Eidolon revealed.

-Naruto telling Lightning the truth about his world and the Kyuubi.

-Naruto's reunion with his parents.

-More bonding time between him and Lightning (duh it's so obvious).

Now for possible spoilers:

-Naruto meeting Jiraiya and the toads.

-Sasuke regaining the sharingan.

-Lemons in the future.

That will be all remember to review and thank you to everyone. I will see you all next time farewell.

Next time- the Cocoon dead lands: revisiting embarrassing moments