Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and FFXIII it rightful belongs to Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura. That's about it so back off lawyers and don't sue.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
**Communications through phones and radio
(Bold and parenthesis Eidolons speaking or Kyuubi)
Chapter 18 To Eden
(Location: Devastated dreams the Vile Peaks outside of Cocoon's inner rim)
The members of the l'Cie group have experienced a lot so far, fighting for their lives wasn't a happy experience. At least they were together, it was better to have friends in these sorts of situations. They have currently survived yet another battle with a strong monster, in this case the Dreadnought. After all the fights they had, it wasn't so bad to be an l'Cie. You were strong enough to last in tough fights, but the big question to ask is for how long you can last being one. The bad part was the fact that the clock was ticking they won't stay like this forever they had the choice to fulfill their focus or wait for time to run out and become a Cie'th. Another question to ask how long they'll be able to run from the Sanctum, they were enemies of Cocoon destined to be hunted forever.
Naruto gave a sigh walking with the rest of the group he agreed that this wasn't such a bad experience. He has met good friends he was already fond of the people traveling with him, he got along with everyone. Sazh the older man was funny and he could be very reasonable sometimes, Hope was young but he was still a kid who needed a lot of help. With the death of his mother he was traumatized and now he needed some comfort, he did promised the teen to be there for him when he needed someone. As for Vanille she acted like a kid for her age but she was still a nice person, not to mention tough after seeing her fight. Then there was Lightning what else could he say about her, he has known her for seven years he wouldn't wanted any other way to have her here with him.
The blond jinchurikki was really hoping that they didn't run into anymore enemies, especially the Pulsework soldier. There was no doubt that the others could keep with him and the pink haired soldier, they've been here before so they knew what they were up against. The Dreadnought was a new experience but they were aware of the other monsters in the area, as well as which route to take to leave the place and they were in the right direction. If they go beyond this point they might make it to the train to one of the stations that passes through Cocoon, they still have ways to go before reaching said area. Lightning who was taking the lead has stopped walking, staring at the road ahead she needed to make sure that they weren't enemies further.
"I'm gonna scout ahead, wait here."
The Uzumaki nodded knowing he has been given the task to stay with the others, while she went ahead. They really needed the rest staring at them he could tell clearly, like he mentioned to the former sergeant before none of them had any military experience. Looking at them they didn't seemed to be that tire, but he was wrong not to mention hungry. Sazh looked calm for someone who looked like he was going to have a heart attack a while ago, when they were fighting the Dreadnought. Vanille was looking her usual cheery self; looking pretty normal even with all the fights they had it made him wonder that it wasn't her first time in fighting. As for Hope the silver haired teen was quiet, in thought he was probably trying hard not to be scare acting all tough.
Lightning returned to the group minutes later telling them that it was all right to move ahead, they soon followed her she was back taking the lead. They arrived at another opening, this time showing a wonderful view of the Vile Peaks. The night sky was dark and the stars made it looked bright, it was probably the only place in the area that could show a sign of beauty. Naruto decided to get seated at the edge of a cliff, watching over Hope and Vanille that decided to have a look around at the area. He smiled both looked like a couple of little kids that needed the supervision of an adult, he didn't noticed Lightning getting seated next to him. Soon Sazh followed the two former soldiers, he felt like giving his legs some rest.
"Not much of a future for us, huh….?"
"Hard to picture a happy ending" replied the former sergeant.
"Being hunted by the Sanctum for the rest of our lives isn't a happy ending at all" said Naruto.
"We don't even know where to go."
"I do" Lightning got up staring at the sky" there…."
Sazh and Naruto followed her gaze at the cradle shape city high above the sky of course they know the city.
"Eden….?" thought the Uzumaki and he weren't surprised at her answer.
"Eden…that Sanctum's seat of power oh that's great just charge right in there give 'em a taste of l'Cie terror!" the afro haired pilot was being sarcastic.
The blond jinchurikki knew her expression filled with determination" nope she's serious…."
"You can't be serious!" shouted the dark skinned man.
"Keep running-it's die or turn Cie'th. There's no place for l'Cie to hide no they want a fight, let's take it to the Sanctum's door!"
"This isn't a game!"
"No that's for damn sure. It started with Serah the Fal'Cie took her, now I'm an l'Cie too and the Sanctum's hunting an enemy of the state. But who's pulling their strings a Fal'Cie Eden Cocoon's sustainer and guiding light?"
"She has a point there" thought the whiskered blond.
"It probably ordered the Purge too."
Naruto saw Hope and Vanille walking to them, looks like they were done with walking around the place. They have listened to some of the parts of Lightning speech and they didn't like it one bit, at least Vanille.
"Pulse and Sanctum Fal'Cie they're all the same and we're all the same to, expendable. I'm not dying a Fal'Cie slave."
"So what are you gonna do?" Sazh was afraid to know the answer.
"Destroy it."
"Oh boy…." the Uzumaki felt like rubbing his forehead.
"By yourself what are you crazy?"
"She won't do it alone I'm with her on this one" said the blond jinchurikki.
"Fine say you two pull it off what's that get you satisfaction, something happens to Eden its lights out Cocoon."
The afro haired pilot was shocked in realization" wait you want that you're both Pulse l'Cie. You just want to snuff out Cocoon!"
"Oh yes I'm evil now and I want to destroy Cocoon" Naruto gave a fake evil chuckle.
He stopped because everyone minus Lightning was giving him scary expression, he sweat dropped" I'm being sarcastic…."
"No it's not right, what about Serah she said to save Cocoon it might even be our focus to make sure Cocoon stays-" Vanille said in exasperation.
"Our focus doesn't matter I don't take orders from Fal'Cie. How I live is up to me" said the former sergeant.
"Don't you mean how you die?" Sazh said.
"Think like that, and it's over. Better to pick your path and keep moving, don't worry I'm only after the Sanctum I'm not out to destroy the world. If it did come to that I wonder if our hero would try to stop me."
"You want to fight Snow now just like that and your now enemies?" said the afro haired pilot.
"Next time we met, we might be too."
"We fight the Sanctum it's the only way, count me in but it won't be easy" said the Uzumaki.
"Naruto you agreed with her?" asked Vanille.
"Yeah kid you seriously want to fight the military like it won't bother you?" Sazh followed.
"What other choice do we have?" the whiskered blond turned to them with a serious expression.
"Because there's no way I'm running away and hide, that will be pointless they will hunt us no matter where we go. To everyone in Cocoon we're all serious threats that want to destroy their world, our only option is to fight them and defend ourselves. I want to survive all of this not the opposite."
The blond jinchurikki saw that Lightning started walking out he sighed turning to them" look it's obvious you guys don't want to do this and you don't have to. We're not obligating you but please be careful out there and take care."
"Yeah we will, can't say the same for you. But be careful" replied the afro haired man.
"Naruto…." the red head whispered.
"I'll be fine I won't go down that easy and neither is Lightning" he gave his grin turning to the silver haired teen.
"Hope you don't have to go with us either, you make your own choice."
The teen nodded watching the Uzumaki leaving following the pink haired soldier. He was in deep thought but it didn't take him that long to make up his mind, there was only one thing in his mind. Going with Lightning and Naruto he will fight more battles, become stronger than he is now he will face the Sanctum. But most importantly he will have to face Snow remembering the former sergeant's words that they might meet again, as enemies. It was impossible to refuse this opportunity to get strong enough to face the NORA leader and have his revenge, remembering the death of his mother. Everything he has forged at the blond was nothing but anger, he was leaving running away wasn't going to satisfy his grudge.
"Snow deserves it!" he walked out leaving the two l'Cie.
Vanille lowered her head why does it have to be so hard to stay away from it all. This is exactly what she has been doing since she woke up from crystallization, running away from her focus. She didn't want to know a thing about it her only desire was to run and avoid it, she knew that was going to be enough but she was still trying. It happened at the Euride energy plant Fang was trying to find a way for then or more precise for her to remember their focus by attacking a Sanctum Fal'Cie, and the outcome ended up being a big mistake. More victims were branded as l'Cie all because of her, now she was on her own without having Fang by her side. While at the same time it was better this way, not being with her friend means she won't have to worry about fulfilling her focus. She was trying to save her from her fate of becoming Cie'th and she didn't care about that, she only wants the pain to end.
"I don't know what I should do."
"That makes two of us" replied Sazh.
The red head smile at least she won't be lonely in her decision, she gave him a push" hey you're taking care of me!"
"Well I won't be if you keep pushing me like that."
(Scene change)
Lightning and Naruto were walking another route they've taken before during their missions. The Uzumaki already had an idea where she was going if her goal is to go to Eden, however both were quiet. None said a word to the other since they left Sazh, Vanille and Hope behind honestly the blond jinchurikki wasn't feeling well. The blond jinchurikki didn't like that they have to get separated from his new friends when they were supposed to stick together in this situation, he understood the others decision in not fighting the Sanctum. He was concerned for their safety and it wasn't the brightest idea to run away and hide when you were consider dangerous to the entire population of Cocoon.
Turning towards the pink haired soldier, her expression was filled with determination. But he could tell that it was barely a façade to hide her anger and suffering, he knew she was suffering still not admitting with what happened to Serah. He hated it he couldn't stand it when she was like this she's not meant to be in pain. How badly he wanted to make her feel better and try to put a smile on that face, but that was impossible to accomplish with their predicament. The worst of this is that they were only two former soldiers now l'Cie going after the Sanctum, before they hunt them down. The silence was killing him he never like staying quiet for too long, the older Farron didn't mind because she was used to be the soldier with a few words.
"Lightning….?"
"What….?"
The Uzumaki caught her wrist stopping the former sergeant in her tracks" let's talk…."
"About what….?"
"I know you don't like to talk your own problems, but it's nice that you talk it out with someone."
"There's nothing to talk about" she hide the lie.
"It's not true I know you must be angry or frustrated about all of this. It's all right if you tell me how you feel."
"Making me talk won't help anything."
"I'm not making you but it's better to talk it out then keeping it to yourself, and also I think you'll feel better if you tell me your problems."
The older Farron sighed it was always the same with Naruto. The blond was too caring for his own good, always trying to make her feel better. Always thinking about others than himself she has always seen his character quite refreshing but it wasn't working this time. She has made a goal to fight the Sanctum that was all that matter to her, to fight the system instead of fulfilling a focus forced by the Fal'Cie. Even if she did had an urge to tell him, this wasn't the time they were wasting time and PSICOM could be hot on their heels. But he was right that she was feeling angry with all of this, none of this should have happened in the first place.
"Let's move."
"Lightning….?"
"No need to worry about me."
The blond jinchurikki gave a sigh she was acting stubborn she wasn't going to tell him" all right lead the way as always…."
"Wait for me!"
The two former soldiers turned to see the silver haired teen running to them he stopped catching to them panting.
"Hope….?" Naruto said.
"I'm going with you guys."
"I can't babysit you anymore."
"I can fight, I'm not afraid."
"He's right Lightning" replied the whiskered blond.
The pink haired soldier heard footsteps heading their way, turning around she saw four Corps gunner and one PSICOM tracker. Both former soldiers knew that by now the military must have found their current location, since they were able to track the crashed ship when they arrived at the Vile Peaks.
"Great, a PSICOM hit squad."
"They found us that means they must have already have this area surrounded" said the Uzumaki.
The PSICOM tracker pressed a button from a device he was holding. An explosion was heard behind the trio as they looked a debris formed blocking the way they came, there was no going back.
"An ambush…." said Naruto.
They have prepared for the fight as Hope cast protect on his two friends, taking the defensive. Naruto knew what to do next, he charged at the tracker because it was casting manadrive barthunder on his allies. Barthunder gives the power of thunder in person's weapons, in this case the Corps rifles it was necessary to take down the tracker first. The blond jicnhurikki used blitz ruin he ended with aero bringing the weak soldier out of commission. Lightning has taken one of the Corps gunner's weapon cutting it in half with her gun blade, she used blitz and a powerful swing that sent the soldier backwards. Hope has taken another soldier with his magic, and he did it when he was about to fire on the pink haired soldier.
The last one was taken down thanks to the teaming up of the former GC soldiers. As the fight ended Naruto was gazing at the bodies of the fallen soldiers, recognizing the armor they wear. They were obviously members of the Guardian Corps it was hard to fight people from the same military division, both still consider themselves part of the GC. They were still wearing the standard uniform proudly and both have a lot of respect for the unit, it was also Amodar's rule they gave them such high level of respect for the Corps. The whiskered blond stood in thought turning his gaze away from the fallen Corps soldiers, Lightning was gazing at Hope who was panting from the fight and from the running he did earlier.
"Not bad…."
"Really thanks?"
"Oh so now you noticed?" Naruto smirked.
"There will be more soldiers we should keep moving" said the silver haired teen.
"Yeah we figured that PSICOM has secured this part of the Vile Peaks, we knew they were going to find us sooner or later" replied the whiskered blond.
Hope noticed that the pink haired soldier was staring somewhere else" Lightning are you worried about the other I'm sure they got away okay?"
"So can you, if you leave now. With us it will be fight after fight, I don't how it'll end it's anybody's guess."
"I know but-I need to be stronger…."
The blond jinchurikki got next to her speaking quietly" let's take him with us, you heard him he wants to be stronger and we can't leave him behind."
The former sergeant gave a soft nod agreeing with him, it didn't mean she like the idea.
"Lightning….?" Hope saw that she was all quiet expecting her answer.
"Call me Light."
"Light….?" Naruto was really taken back by the fact of the sudden change of name.
"What's the plan from here?"
"Through the Gapra Whitewood to Palumpolum, we'll find transportation to Eden there."
"I guess we have no choice but to take the long way to get to Eden" said the Uzumaki.
"I live in Palumpolum, I can show you guys all the shortcuts."
"That's great Hope glad to have you with us!"
"No side trips" she starting walking.
"No need, I don't think l'Cie are welcome at home."
"Obviously…."
The whiskered blond got next to the older Farron" see isn't a good thing that you chose to bring Hope with us?"
"We'll see…."
He rolled his eyes walking back to the silver haired teen" about your question from before she is worried about the others but she doesn't want to admit it."
"Really….okay?" he smiled happy to know that.
"Yep Lightning might look all tough on the outside but on the inside, she's a big softy."
Unfortunately for Naruto the pink haired soldier heard him and a vein popped on her forehead, she stopped glaring at him" who's a big softy?"
"Ahh!"
Hope stood wide eyed seeing Lightning holding the Uzumaki in a headlock in a comical way.
"Lightning….?"
"I dare you to say that again."
"But it's true you pretend not to care about others while you completely hide your caring nature."
"Not a good enough explanation Uzumaki."
"Okay a big softy like a puffy marshmallow."
"Try again" she tightened the headlock.
Hope couldn't help it and laughed at the sight.
Eventually Lightning let him go, frowning at him while the blond just gave her a silly grin. She ignored him and continued moving on taking the lead she will pretend she never heard his comment of her being a big softy. Naruto was back to normal like nothing has happened walking with Hope the teen was staring at him and the former sergeant then back at him. The teen has smiled at their relation, anyone could tell that they were very close it looked cute how they will interact with the other. He wondered if will be able to do the same when he finds that special someone, even if he was still young he would love to have someone close who can make him happy. Not wanting to think about his mother he stared at the whiskered blond remembering how he acts with the pink haired soldier.
"What is it?" Naruto stared back at the teen realizing he was being watch for a while.
"I….I guess…."
"Don't be shy Hope if there's something you want to talk about, go ahead and say it."
"I was just thinking that you and Light seem to be close, you know each other well."
The Uzumaki grinned at his comment" of course we've known each other for a long time, we're that close."
"How close?"
The blond jinchurikki almost turned pale trying not to blush he stared at the former sergeant who was still walking ahead taking the lead. He was praying that she was listening to their conversation and nothing embarrassing might take place, he needed to come up with a nice safe.
"We're close friends Hope that's all."
"Oh okay…."
As they resumed their walking it was unfortunate for the blond that Lightning has indeed heard their conversation. The pink haired soldier's eyes softened a bit hearing Naruto's close friends comment she tightened her fist that was all they were. It was true they know each other for so long and they were that close, but not close enough to have something precious together. There was no time to be having wishful thoughts she knew very well what she wanted when it came to the Uzumaki. Of course she treasured his friendship more than any friend she has ever had, he was so close to her after Serah. No time to be thinking like that she had a goal to fulfill, going to Eden and stop the Sanctum before they stop them.
Over an hour they have spent the time fighting more squads of Corps members, which only annoyed Naruto more. Instead of sending PSICOM as usual they were now sending Guardian Corps members to stop them, by now he has lost all respect for the Sanctum private military. They had no choice but to fight and yet they had the upper hand with their new l'Cie abilities, in addition that the Corps members weren't that strong with no fighting experience. They never stood a chance proving once again they were stronger with each battle they were becoming stronger and better. Hope was really growing too the silver haired teen has proven to be very good at casting magic, maybe even better than Vanille. The Uzumaki has noticed that and he was glad that Lightning chose to bring him along he turned out to be quite reliable.
When they were attacked by enemy forces he will quickly cast protect and shell supporting them in the fight. The spells have become very useful not receiving damage from the soldiers it only made their fights even easier. He was glad to have the teen with them, although Lightning didn't felt the same way thinking that he was in the way, and he shouldn't be traveling with them since it was very dangerous destine to get worse. Along the way probably the toughest fight they had was against the Uhlan, a heavy mechanical militarized unit who proved to be among PSICOM's top weaponry. It was really something with its hard armor and its attacks, strong machine gun fire as well as its missile launchers they had their work cut out.
They got hurt in the fight but thanks to Hope they were able to heal because of cure, Naruto was one of the members that got pretty beat up due that he decided to take all of the machine's attacks to himself. The Uzumaki was glad to have the silver haired teen with them since he was very useful, he was supportive with the spells and the healer those were enough positive points for the whiskered blond to accept him. However that's not what Lightning thought since all she saw in Hope that he was just a kid that will only get in the way, even if he has already proven to be a good asset in their mission. She was too stubborn to acknowledge him, it was all because he was an l'Cie but without that power given by the Fal'Cie he will be an ordinary weak child.
For Hope the main reason why he chose to join Lightning and Naruto in their mission was simple, to have the chance to get strong and have his revenge. With following the two former soldiers he will fight all the battles to gain the necessary strength to take down Snow, and when the time was right he will face him. He really wished he was all right, that he will live long enough so they can meet again, and this time he will show the NORA leader his pain and his hatred. In time he will have his revenge and he will enjoy it, he couldn't let this go without doing something about it the tall blond has to pay for his crime. The teen could feel it with every fight they win, his power was increasing slowly his magic was becoming quite devastating that will be enough to take him down.
They arrived at an open area where they spotted another Dreadnought, however this one was deactivated like the last one they encountered. They also spotted two PSICOM trackers obviously they were looking for them they quickly hide in a corner behind a rock. Lightning and Naruto carefully peek their heads at the two soldiers, they were able to hear them talking.
"Any trace of the l'Cie?"
"Nothing, no sign it's been activated."
One of the trackers spotted something nearby" who's there?"
"Crap they spotted us" thought Naruto.
They went to battle and it only took the trio five minutes to beat them up. The trackers were too weak for them and not to mention there were only two of the soldiers. When the fight ended Hope decided to take a look at the deactivated Dreadnought, curiosity seemed to have taken the better of him he couldn't stop staring at the Pulse machine.
"What was PSICOM doing here?"
"Probably thought we'd try and use the Pulse machine to escape" replied the former sergeant.
"Yeah that seems to be likely" said the whiskered blond.
"Maybe we should try it what does this do?" he started looking over the mech.
"Hey you're gonna hurt yourself don't touch that!" scolded the pink haired soldier.
Naruto grinned" aw what do you know you do care after all?"
"Quit it!" snapped Lightning obviously denying the caring part.
"Wait what if it works?" he started climbing the Dreadnought.
"Leave it" the pink haired soldier gave a frown.
"If it works Hope you better let me ride it after you" the Uzumaki gave a silly grin.
"Don't encourage him!" she slightly punched his shoulder.
The silver haired teen has activated the Dreadnought and he could barely have any control over the Pulsian machine. Naruto sweat dropped at the sight he was only fourteen, he couldn't drive so what were the chances that he could actually pilot a machine from Pulse.
"I told you to leave it" Lightning was still frowning at the teen for disobeying her.
"Stop stop already!"
"Come on Hope try to keep it under control!" said the Uzumaki.
Pressing the controls of the Dreadnought the machine suddenly stopped as the teen sighed" I think I got it…."
"Not bad" said the blond jinchurikki.
"Light, Naruto I think I can work this!"
The pink haired soldier didn't say another word walking to a raised bridge on the road ahead, they needed to cross it. Both she and Naruto knew that the Pulse machine will be strong enough to lower it in order to cross it. With one push of the mech Hope managed to lower without any effort, the strength of the machine he was piloting was formidable.
"This will make things easier for us."
"I don't like it" Lightning crossed her arms.
"Come on give him a break, it will be better if we lift his confidence. It will help him grow strong too."
"It doesn't mean you should encourage him to try something dangerous."
"You do care huh?" the whiskered blond was grinning.
"Hmph…."
They followed Hope that by now the teen piloting the Dreadnought has reached a gate, which destroy it to proceed further. The two former soldiers followed hot on his trail when they saw an army of Pulsework soldiers heading to him, a sight that made the Uzumaki's blood boil. He hated Pulsework soldiers since the day his embarrassing accident took place during one of their missions here he vowed to hate them forever, he will never forgive or forget when it comes to those Pulsian machines. The piloted the mech attacking the army defeating them on the spot, they were all sent flying away. The sight made the whiskered blond to cheer as none stood a chance against the might of the giant Pulse machine he was enjoying watching them fall with ease. While Lightning was ignoring Naruto's cheering, she only kept walking following the teen keeping her distance from the mech.
Hope resumed the same routine for ever gateway he demolished taking armies of Pulsework soldiers. The small machines didn't stand a chance since the Dreadnought was bigger and stronger than them, they were beaten easily. The silver haired teen took them all out with the swing of its powerful arms like a bowling ball taking a group of pins, and Naruto was really enjoying watching them fall. It was the same thing in a couple of gates de destroyed passing through and did the same with taking down the Pulsework soldiers while the teen was feeling happy and confident. Taking down the enemy for Lightning and Naruto will definitely a lot of respect and trust from his comrades, maybe the pink haired soldier will accept him instead of seeing him as weak. Reaching the end when it was all over the Dreadnought tripped on a cliff as Hope fell on his front, it was a bit painful.
"Nice landing."
The silver haired teen got up seeing Lightning and Naruto jumping from the cliff.
"I'll give you a 6.5 for the landing what about you Light?"
"A 3…."
"Ouch that's harsh."
"Let's get moving."
"Just need a minute. Still a bit winded."
"You're too soft."
"Wait up!"
"Come on Hope don't fall behind!" shouted Naruto following the pink haired soldier.
"I hope we find another one of those things."
"Another Dreadnought I don't think so, at least not activated but surely not one activated that will try to kill us" the blond jinchurikki shuddered at the thought not wanting to fight another one.
They were right when they suspected that PSICOM have the area secured, as they proceed further they encountered more soldiers. Members of the Guardian Corps, Cors regular as well a PSICOM ranger they spotted like they were expecting them to come to this direction. The fight didn't take too long Lightning and Naruto defeated the ranger while Hope took down two Corps regular, and the last one was taken by the trio. When they reached a clear opening with a bridge they got a little too much to chew on, two PSICOM rangers and a Unian. Using the defensive remembering how tough the militarized unit is, Hope has casted protect on his companions and the former GC soldiers took on the rangers first.
A combination of blitz, ruin, aero and thunder was enough to defeat them but the battle wasn't over. The Uhlan used its machine guns on Hope, luckily protect prevented him from getting too wounded. The two soldiers charged at the PSICOM unit knowing its elemental weakness, Lightning casted a barrage of thunder while Naruto fired away with Flashflare saber and ruin. That gave the silver haired teen time to heal his injuries with cure, he gasped as the Uhlan fired its missiles at him. He couldn't move he stood frozen in shock, he knew he won't be able to survive that. When he less expected Naruto has gotten in the way to take the blast from the missiles, it shocked the teen a lot. However the Uzumaki was lucky the blast didn't torn his clothes like that time with the Pulsework soldier, but he didn't looked good.
"Naruto!"
"I'm all right keep your guard up!" panted the blond his Guardian Corps dirty due to the explosion.
Lightning glared at the Uhlan with so much anger, she hated the mechanical unit for hurting him. She concentrated all her strength on her magic, she unleashed so many thunder spells at the military unit. The Uhlan was caught in the lightning storm since it was one of the elemental weaknesses it was out of commission due to a short circuit from all the magic attacks. The pink haired soldier wanted to smash it to pieces but she erased the thought, checking on the whiskered blond was more important. Hope was already casting cure on the Uzumaki who was only giving a small grin, happy that his clothes wasn't burned off experiencing another embarrassing moment was the last thing on his mind.
"Are you feeling all right?" asked the worried teen.
"Yeah I'm okay don't worry about it, my wounds aren't serious."
"Besides the fox will heal them eventually…."
(You're nothing without me) mumble the nine tails fox.
"What were you thinking?" Lightning crossed her arms with a frown on her face.
"I had to do something-"
"By taking missiles for him….?"
"Why are you mad Lightning I'm okay Hope's okay, we're all okay so what's the big deal?"
"You could have gotten killed" she was failing in hiding her concern.
"But I didn't…."
"That's not the point it was too reckless even for you."
"Calm down I'm not that hurt, let's keep going."
The former sergeant stopped her arguing he was right, they needed to keep going. Even if she was worried sick about him, she admitted she was scared when she saw him getting caught in that explosion. She felt relief he wasn't bear naked like the last time with the Pulsework soldier, she wasn't ready to witness that and start feeling funny. She took the lead again gazing at the whiskered blond from the corner of her eye, he had a few slight few burn but he was all right she was worrying too much. She forgot about it engaging more Corps regular ahead, there were four of them. The battle lasted a few minutes Naruto has gotten hurt fighting while backing Hope, always helping his friends.
Lightning didn't approve of Naruto getting hurt during their battles, which most wounds were done because he was watching over Hope's back. He has been getting a bit reckless since they separated from the others, she knew he will do anything to protect his friends and the silver haired teen was another one of them. But if it meant that he was going to keep getting hurt she wasn't going to stand and watch him go through with it, even if his wounds will get heal. She watched as Hope was using cure him, she shook her head walking to him. She wanted to help the teen in the healing while she was feeling the power inside of her growing, as the results from the fights they have won.
"Let me help…."
"What?"
"But you can't-"
Hope didn't finish the sentence seeing that the pink haired soldier has healed the Uzumaki's remaining wound, both boys were shocked at the sight. The former sergeant felt happy with herself, she was able to cast a healing spell. Now it won't be just Hope but with this, she'll be able to heal Naruto's wounds when he needs it, she will be happy to heal them whenever and wherever.
"Lightning you….?"
"You cast cure" Hope finished for the blond.
"I guess…."
"I didn't know you could use healing magic" said the whiskered blond.
"I learned it, magic is getting stronger."
"Vanille did say that we'll be getting strong with the more we fight" replied the silver haired teen.
"That's good news for us" Naruto gave a grin.
"Are you all right?" asked the older Farron.
"I'm okay Lightning don't get too worry."
"It's Light" corrected the pink haired soldier.
"Right I forgot…."
"We're sure going to need getting stronger if we're going to Eden" said the teen.
"And speaking of that, what's the plan Lightn-…I mean Light" Naruto was about to called her by her usual name.
"I told you, through the Gapra Whitewood to Palumpolum."
"Not that I'm talking about the plan to infiltrate Eden…."
The former GC sergeant didn't reply in thought, she decided to avoid the question as she started walking.
"Light?" the Uzumaki stopped her in her tracks her silence was enough to shocked him" you do have a plan right?"
"..."
"You don't?" he was more shocked while Hope watched looking worry knowing it wasn't a good sign.
"I'll think of something when we get there."
"When we get there?" the shock never left his face.
"We still have ways to go before reaching Eden-"
"That's not the point you don't even have a plan whatsoever. Going to the Sanctum's capital without a battle plan is suicide even I know that!"
"We're l'Cie by the time we get there we'll be too strong for the military to do anything about it."
"But it doesn't mean we're immortal, if we get hit by a barrage of bullets or missiles we'll get killed. Are you really planning to go without a plan or even without thinking of one at all?"
"Tch…."
"So you're just going to knock on their front door and say hello Sanctum let me in so I can kill you all, you think they're going to welcome us with open arms?"
"Guys….?" replied Hope looking nervous because of the argument.
"Fine you think about a plan" Lightning gave a frown.
The blond jinchurikki rubbed his forehead" I can't believe I'm hearing this from you, this isn't you. I understand I'm reckless but you, no you're not the reckless type Light…."
"Time to move" she ignored him taking the lead again.
He sighed" come on Hope let's go."
The silver haired teen nodded following the Uzumaki as they caught up to the pink haired soldier. Naruto knew now wasn't the time to be trying to talk to her, he knew she was angry. When Lightning was very upset she couldn't think straight, so thinking of a plan didn't even came to her mind. Everything that happened was too much for her and he could tell that she was holding it all inside, it won't be long before she reach her limit breaks down. But there was no point in making her talk her problem with him if she didn't want to for now he will remain quiet until the right time comes. She didn't bothered looking at him or Hope, her only focus was on her goal to defeat the Sanctum and the future battles ahead. They crossed a long tunnel as they spotted two more trackers and an Uhlan for once they decided to avoid fighting them, since they have spotted them yet.
Once they were out of reach from them they head out to the scavenger trail. Naruto turned to Hope and he could clearly see it, the silver haired teen was tired probably exhausted. It was true that they haven't taken a rest since they parted ways with Sazh and Vanille, the battles and the walking have finally taken a toll on the teen. The small problem is with Lightning in her current bad humor she was probably going to refuse in taking a rest, knowing her she will prefer to fall to the ground from the exhaustion. It was better to try he couldn't bear to see Hope falling from exhaustion he was only a kid facing the painful harshness that is reality, besides it won't hurt to ask.
"Light….?"
"What….?"
"How about if we take a small break….?"
"No rest until we leave this place" was her only response which it was in a harsh tone, yeah she was getting worse.
"I'd thought so" he gave a sigh turning to the teen" sorry Hope…."
"I'm okay I can still fight…."
But that's not how it looked for the silver haired teen. Crossing a large wooden bridge the teen couldn't take it anymore, no matter how much he was hiding it. He was too tired to go on, he finally collapse on the ground as the whiskered blond went to him checking on him. However the former sergeant has finally had enough with him, she knew he couldn't keep up with them so why bothered bringing him with them. She knew he wouldn't have what it takes to survive even if he was an l'Cie too, she finally reached her limit. No matter what the Uzumaki will tell her she was going to put her foot down, the silver haired teen was just getting in their way too weak to be traveling with them he was no soldier.
"Light we really need to take a-"
"This isn't working" she interrupted him.
"What?" blinked Naruto.
"I mean, you're a liability. You'll just slow us down."
"What?" Hope was shocked getting up.
"I'm sorry but I can't protect you when you-"
"You can't leave me here. You've got to take me with you!"
Lightning fell a pain in her chest her in a pink colored mark of her brand was shown, her heart beating faster she didn't know the source of this pain which it was growing by the minute.
"He's right we can't leave him, he's an l'Cie too he's already involved in this mess" said the Uzumaki.
When he noticed that the pink haired soldier was in pain he quickly grew worried" Light you okay….?"
"I'm going with you guys I told you I want to become strong!"
"Enough!" shouted the former sergeant finally snapping from her anger.
"Light….?" Naruto started.
"The whole world is against us I can barely keep myself alive let alone some helpless kid!" the pain grew stronger it was horrible it felt like it was going to rip her chest apart.
"I don't have time to baby you, you want to get tough do it on your own?" the pain grew in size and in levels of agony.
"Light?" shouted the worried sick blond.
"I'm done with doing this your way it's not working I told you to leave him!" she was holding her chest the pink haired glow was still emitting from the location of her l'Cie brand.
"Calm down please…."
"No I will not calm down. You….why are you even here, always pretending to care for me I know I don't mean a thing to you so why bother spend time with me?"
Naruto was shocked hearing her words" what pretend….?"
"I know the truth all along, you could care less about me you think you can fool me. Just go to Lebreau and leave me alone!"
"Lebreau….?" He was confused why she would bring the female member of NORA.
"Ahhhhh!" she screamed in agony the pain in her chest has reached its limit.
"Lightning!" Hope and Naruto shouted in unison.
She knelt as a large pink circle was formed beneath her, she quickly moved away not liking this. From the bright pink magic circle a being has emerged in front of them, they were all in awed as its appearance. It wasn't human it looked more mechanical holding a shield and a menacing double bladed sword, whatever it was it looked very dangerous. Both Hope and Naruto were really in shocked as its appearance, they had no idea what it was they already had the idea that it wasn't with the military since it was somehow brought by Lightning. The blond jinchurikki stood staring at it, it definitely looked strong and probably enough to have them kill. The only thing to ask is whether this mysterious being was on their side, or the other way he wished it was the later.
"What in the world is that thing?"
(Such power….that could it even rival my own this is no ordinary being….)
"Even the fox is feeling restless by this thing, that's not a good sign."
"This cannot be happening" said the pink haired soldier staring at the mechanical being.
"Could it be….?" Hope started in awe.
The being which it was obviously an Eidolon went to attack the teen, charging at him.
"Hope!" shouted Naruto.
"Look out!"
Lightning was quick and blocked the Eidolon's double blade with her gun blade she was shocked crossing weapons with it. She felt the strong feeling emitting from it and with the way she was trying to back it off with her weapon, this was no ordinary being. It was powerful enough to take all three of them without break sweat, maybe kill them without even trying. She erased the later thought as she was joined by Naruto holding his gun blade and Hope holding his boomerang, they were ready to ight.
"That thing isn't letting us get through we have to fight it no other choice" said the Uzumaki.
"I'll do my best" said the teen.
The Eidolon has cast doom on Lightning it hit her like a sharp needle been pierced through her body. She could hear her heart beat as well as a countdown before her eyes, seventeen minutes and counting. She didn't want to know when it reaches zero she took her Blazefire saber as the Eidolon charged at her. Her eyes widened at how fast it was for something quite big, but Naruto beat it to the punch blocking its attack with his gun blade. The former sergeant reacted getting on his shoulder jumping on the Eidolon with her own attack it was futile as it used its shield to blocked it. Meanwhile Hope has taken his to cast protect and shell on his friends, just in case the Eidolon shows more than just a threat. But unfortunately for the trio the fight was way tougher than they have expected one that will test their limits.
The Eidolon has proven to be a force to be fear as it has blocked all of their attacks with its shield. The two former soldiers have also use gun mode but bullets weren't even harming it, they seemed to be outmatched. Hope has casted fire, blizzard and aero only to find out that it wasn't harming it much. It wasn't just strong but tough with a high defense, the being has proven it was a big threat to the l'Cie trio. Once it has defended the Eidolon for the defensive attacking with its double bladed sword, and it was hard for either the former soldiers to block it. His moves were quick and deadly if it wasn't for their military training Naruto and Lightning would be in big trouble against the being. However Hope was the weakest link and the one who was more likely to be in danger in this tough fight.
"This thing really knows how to fight and it's so strong too" thought the blond jinchurikki blocking another strong attack from the Eidolon.
The Eidolon attacked merciless making them go to the defensive while Hope fired away with magic, having the same results as before. The teen cast cure when it was necessary which it was almost every time, witnessing that his companions were getting beaten by the being badly. Although as former soldiers with the military training and the experience they were having a lot of trouble being in the same level with the Eidolon. So far the being was the toughest opponent they have ever faced, but it felt different from their previous fights. For Lightning it was higher than just mere defeat, her own life was on the line for the countdown in front of her was to ten minutes. If she loses right here and now, it will be over her revenge won't be fulfill, her life as an l'Cie will be for nothing.
As if the fight couldn't get any worst the Eidolon has seem to change a bit in strategy. It started casting the spell thundara, the trio never saw it coming not thinking it could fire magic too. The pink haired soldier watched in horror as Naruto and Hope got hit by the powerful thunder spell, she could tell that they got hurt badly. Things got more complicated as the silver haired teen looked very tired he seemed to have reached his limit it was her guest how long he could continue fighting. She made her next move boldly casting cure on both of them, although Naruto looked like he could continue unlike the teen. As soon as she casted the healing spell the Eidolon seemed to react, charging at her with its double bladed sword. She quickly went blocked the attack holding her Blazefire saber like her life depended on it.
Naruto took the opportunity to attack it using aero it didn't do much damage like the last time they used magic on it. He charged since it was focusing on the pink haired soldier, however the being was smart. When it saw the attack coming, it used its shield even if its main focus was the former sergeant. It spin its blade attacking them both, this time they couldn't block it both got hurt. Hope cast cure but it wasn't enough to save them completely, his eyes widened in terror as the Eidolon casted thundara on him. The teen screamed feeling the thunder spell hit him with such agonizing pain, making him fall on his knees. The two former soldiers attacked it together using teamwork but it wasn't enough to overpower the being, it blocked their attacks even their counter attack using blitz. The blond jinchurikki fired ruin but it didn't harm it too much, he blocked the next attack which it was so strong it made him fell to the ground.
"Damn it….this is crazy. That thing is too strong what's worst I don't know how long Hope and Lightning can keep this up."
"It seems to know when to attack and how. I don't know if we can outmatch it in time" Lightning panted her countdown was now to five minutes.
Hope has collapsed on his knees panting the last attack has hurt him a lot. But it finally happened he couldn't attack anymore, his entire body was aching with so much pain. After fighting for so long he didn't had the energy anymore to keep going, even as an l'Cie his limit was reached. The Eidolon prepared it blade ready to attack the teen, Naruto was about to go to him it was impossible for someone like Hope to survive another attack. His cerulean eyes widened when he witnessed Lightning jumping at the being so fast, remembering why she was named like that, and her aqua eyes showing so much fury. She blocked the attack protecting the teen, no chance in hell someone will get hurt while she was here. The pink haired soldier used every bit of her strength to hold her ground she glared at the Eidolon trying to push it back.
"Hope we have to help her!" Naruto went to the teen.
"I…."
"I know you're tired but we have to help her, she can't beat that thing on her own."
"All right I'll do my best" even if he was exhausted he chose to help and fight.
"I can feel it, this magic is growing like I can do something stronger" thought the Uzumaki.
"I can feel it, maybe this is a good sign" thought Hope.
They focused their attacks on the Eidolon who was won over Lightning in blocking the attack, focusing on their magic which it was stronger than before. They aimed at the being without holding anything back Naruto has fired a new spell aerora while Hope fired fira the combination of the spells hit the Eidolon straight on. Although it used its shield it was so strong that it sends it back a few feet away, giving the older Farron the advantage she was looking for. She wasn't even told she charged at it taking the chance that it has lowered its guard she showed no mercy using blitz, ruin and regular attacks. She managed to get rid of its shield and she knocked it to the ground, it was finally at her mercy.
"All right Lightning!" cheered Naruto.
Hope finally fell on his knees after firing the powerful fire spell" I'm sorry Naruto I'm so tire, I can't go on anymore."
"It's okay you did awesome" he smiled.
"You two, I'm coming" Lightning went to them.
"What are you doing finish it off?" the Uzumaki saw that the Eidolon was starting to get up he couldn't believe that she will waste this opportunity to defeat it.
"Quiet you're both wounded badly, let me heal you."
"I'm fine Hope's fine too!"
"Ow…..so tire and hurt I'm bleeding" moaned the silver haired teen.
The whiskered blond sweat dropped" okay maybe Hope is really wounded but I'm fine!"
"Just shut up and let me" she replied annoyed she started healing the teen first.
"Oh no Lightning!" gasped the blond.
The pink haired soldier knew that the Eidolon was behind her, yet what she did was so foolish. Instead of finishing it off like Naruto told her she chose to heal their wounds, even if she was too late. She saw that her countdown was only to one minute, it was over yet she wasn't scared. As a soldier she's supposed to know that death can come to her anytime and there was no need to be afraid, she was ready to die. If she was going to die then she will die while healing her companions, it was better to die protecting them than die with regrets. Naruto was holding Flashflare saber ready to attack it, he wasn't letting it get near her he needed to find an opening. It wasn't going to be easy with short on one member.
"This is it….my only regrets I couldn't apologize to Serah and I won't be able to tell Naruto…." her eyes softened only ten seconds in her countdown as her heart was beating slowly.
"Lightning….?" The blond was shocked.
"Huh….?"
(It is over….)
"What who said that?" she turned to the Eidolon who was standing holding his shield and double blade sword.
The Eidolon has called off the doom spell on the pink haired soldier (you have passed the trial.)
"It's talking in my head but how?"
(You have proven yourself to be worthy, to face death without any fear in your heart fear while choosing to protect your allies. You have earned the right to claim my power).
"Claim your power….?"
(My name is Odin my power is yours to command Lightning Farron).
"Odin!"
The Eidolon obeyed her calling he stabbed his double blade into the ground before leaping into the air, it started changing shape. Everyone was in awe as Odin has transformed into something new, changing into a horse. The new Odin made the actual horse call as it started heading towards Lightning, running into the air she grabbed the double blade getting on the horse. With might she split the blade in two on each of her hand, mounting her Eidolon with pride her new ally. Soon Odin vanished turning into a pink rose shape crystal it entered in her chest where her l'Cie brand was located.
(Do not be afraid Lightning I will fight with you whenever you may need me).
"Odin…."
The former sergeant finally collapsed on one knee while her brand was glowing pink, it faded shortly.
"Lightning!" Hope went to her along with Naruto.
"You okay….?"
The silver haired teen looked at his brand" your brand looks different was that an Eidolon, like l'Cie can summon?"
"A what?" the Uzumaki was more confused.
"Magic and mumbo-jumbo I must've hit my head on that Purge train."
"I don't remember that, I did remember you were hitting hard on the PSICOM soldiers" the whiskered blond gave a silly grin.
"Notice the sarcasm" replied the pink haired soldier getting up.
"I did" he gave another grin.
The teen's green eyes softened" am I really in your way?"
The older Farron didn't look angry anymore, sheathing her gun blade she started walking. Naruto was staring at her wondering what she was thinking, but also remembering the words she told him before Odin came out. He had a lot to think about and also a lot that he needed to talk with the pink haired woman.
"I'll do better I'll try harder, I'll-"
"Hope….?" she started.
She turned to him not wanting to meet eyes with Naruto" we'll toughen you up."
"She's right we'll help you become strong" said the whiskered blond.
"Thanks" he smiled at least now he won't feel like he's in the way.
"I'm sorry about before" Lightning remembered the harsh words she told them.
Her aqua eyes softened as she took a glance at the Uzumaki" both of you…."
"Lightning….?" he stood in thought watching her go.
Soon he followed the teen as she took the lead again however all he could think off was Odin. The being was so strong it almost killed them if somehow Lightning hadn't claimed his power, the way it transformed into a horse and how she mounted holding those twin blades looking graceful and majestic. Remembering what Hope said that it was an Eidolon, connected with a l'Cie summon. Now that was something that really caught his attention not having a clue that l'Cie could actually summon.
"Hey Hope?"
"Hmm yeah….?"
"What did you call that thing that attacked us?"
"An Eidolon….?"
"Yeah that, what is it….?"
"I don't know about it myself, when you lived in a city that is filled with fear for l'Cie you hear the craziest rumors. Among them I heard that l'Cie has another power besides casting magic, the power to summon an Eidolon."
"So l'Cie can summon?" he was fascinated with the revelation.
"After seeing that yeah, I guess that rumor is true. I was so stupid and thought all of them were true."
"Like Pulse being a planet filled with fire?" the Uzumaki gave a smirk.
"Even that…." he laughed.
"Hurry up you two!" Lightning shouted to the two boys.
"She's back to normal" muttered the blond jinchurikki.
"Summoning and Eidolon hmm….it may not be the same like the summoning justsu but it's enough for me."
"Be ready for ambushes" said the pink haired soldier taking the lead they weren't out of trouble yet.
As they walked ahead Lightning has taken her gun blade as well as Naruto, after mentioning the word ambush. The former sergeant was correct they were met by two PSICOM rangers with two Uhlans, which it wasn't going to be an easy fight. After fighting Odin the trio was probably exhausted, Hope has reached his limit so it was impossible for him to continue, Naruto could still fight but he knew the older Farron was almost reaching her limit too. She wasn't going to last fighting this battle, especially against the two Uhlans.
"There they are!" shouted a ranger.
"We finally found them, the l'Cie."
"Got my back?" she asked Hope.
"Yeah" he tried not to sound tired but he failed to hide his exhaustion.
"You guys leave this to me, you two are worn out. I can still fight no problem" said the Uzumaki.
"No leave this to me."
"Lightning….?"
"I will handle this, but not alone" she summoned her crystal from her brand.
"She's going to…." Hope paused.
"I'm not surprised" the blond jinchurikki gave a grin.
"Go get them."
"Odin…."
She threw her crystal in the air she smashed it with her gun blade. The same pink magic circle appeared with a swirl of roses, the Eidolon of thunder finally emerged. He caught his summoner as both got into an attack position for some reason the PSICOM forces focused their attacks on the Eidolon. The rangers fired their rifles while the Uhlans their machine guns, they didn't damaged him so greatly. In a flash both rangers were defeated by the teamwork of both Lightning and Odin, they turned their attentions at the Uhlans. Using one of their elemental weaknesses both lightning magic, Lightning cast thunder and her Eidolon thundara. The barrage of lightning spells has completely overloaded the Uhlans circuits as they blew up from the attacks. Naruto and Hope stood in awe they defeated the military forces in such a short period of time Odin didn't had to go to gestalt mode either.
"Whoa fighting with an Eidolon by your side can really turn the tide of a battle" thought the blond jinchurikki.
"Did you see that?" asked the awed Hope.
"Yep I did and I still don't believe it."
When the battle was over Lightning has summoned Odin back, taking the lead again. Naruto was still in awe at what he has witnessed, how an Eidolon can help a lot in a fight. Although he has seen similar things when he used the summoning jutsu, the thunder Eidolon was more impressive than watching the toads. It has proven one more time of the benefits of being an l'Cie, with exception of the focus part. He started smiling thinking of the many possibilities of having a powerful summon like that, after all he couldn't summon toads with being an l'Cie not molding chakra anymore.
"I wonder if I will have an Eidolon…."
"We'll stop here" Lightning stopped walking reaching a small rocky area she could tell that they were almost out of the dead lands.
"That sounds nice, sorry" said the silver haired teen giving a sigh of relief.
"Don't sweat it."
"There should be a Guardian Corps checking station further ahead, we might find some transportation to leave this place" replied Naruto.
"Supposedly, yes" said the pink haired soldier she wasn't lifting her hopes up.
"I'll look around. You rest up."
She left while Naruto was quiet without replying to her charge of doing the usual watch. By now he stopped thinking about the Eidolon or how cool Odin looked attacking and changing into a horse. The memories of what happened before it appeared were now reflecting in his mind, remembering how angry and frustrated she was. He didn't blame her for snapping like that, she has been holding her anger for too long. The blond jicnhurikki left leaving Hope, who by now has fallen asleep due to his exhaustion. It didn't took him that long to find Lightning since she didn't go that far, she was just scouting for any enemies PSICOM was still around after all. As he caught up to her the memory came back, the exact words she told him before Odin appeared.
The pink haired soldier almost reached for her gun blade until she saw who it was, she frowned a little" what are you doing get some rest, I'll take the first watch?"
The whiskered blond stood quiet in deep thought staring at her face, her aqua eyes he remembered her words they came back to him.
You….why are you even here, always pretending to care for me I know I don't mean a thing to you so why bother spend time with me?"
"I know the truth all along, you could care less about me you think you can fool me. Just go to Lebreau and leave me alone!"
"Naruto?" the former sergeant got a little worried since he hasn't said a word to her.
He lowered his head" you really think I'm acting to care for you?"
The older Farron was shocked at his words remembering what she told him out of anger before Odin was summoned" Naruto that-"
"You think I'm just pretending to care for you, is that what you think?" he seemed to be hurt.
"I'm sorry about that I didn't mean to say that. I was angry I wasn't thinking straight."
"I know you weren't, it's okay I'm not angry at you but I will tell you that you're very wrong."
The Uzumaki gave her a smile" I chose to board that train with you in order to save Serah because I care for her and I also I care for you. But most importantly I did it for you, I'll do anything for you."
The pink haired woman touched her necklace not wanting to make eye contact with him" I know that you idiot, I'm really sorry I said those things to you."
"Lightning if I'm really pretending to care for you and everyone else who is my friend, then I will forever pretend to care for you all" this time he gave her a big smile.
Her eyes widened at his words smiling slightly" why do you always have to be such a caring idiot….?"
"Hmm…I don't know maybe because that's the way I am" he gave a silly grin.
"I really didn't mean to snap at you and Hope like that I…."
"I understand Lightning you had every right to feel angry. I mean after everything that has happened Serah being an l'Cie, she getting captured by the Fal'Cie, the Purge, she turning to crystal, us being branded as l'Cie by the same Fal'Cie and now we're running for our lives from the Sanctum. After all of those things who wouldn't get angry?"
"You wouldn't be?" she gave a smirk.
"Not me I guess but I'm more annoyed at all of this than being angry."
"Who wouldn't be?" she was still smirking.
The Uzumaki gave a laughed before getting to the next topic remembering her words" Lightning you also said that I should go to Lebreau and leave you alone why?"
"I…." she paused not knowing what to say.
"What does Lebreau has anything to do with this?"
"It's nothing I told you I wasn't thinking straight."
"Come on tell me, I want to help you if I can."
"Naruto there's nothing wrong…."
The whiskered blond gave her a serious expression" I'm not moving from this spot until you tell me."
"Tch….fine I saw you with her" she muttered trying not to get angry.
"Hmm what….?"
"I saw her….she was hugging you" she tried not to get jealous.
"Hugging me when did that happened?"
"It was on the fireworks festival. I went to her bar after I left you, and I saw her hugging you."
The blond jinchurikki finally remembered the day of the festival. When they went to Lebreau's bar to celebrate Sasuke's return to Bodhum they talked about all things. He chose to talk to the female NORA member telling her of how close he came to kiss Lightning and she was beyond happy to hear about it. She eventually hugged him and he saw nothing wrong with her gesture, but obviously the pink haired soldier thought otherwise. Staring at her she seemed to be angry but not the same way when she snapped, leading to Odin's appearance.
"You're angry at me because Lebreau hugged me?"
The former sergeant turned her back it was hard to hide her jealousy every time.
"Is there something wrong with a friend hugging another friend?"
"Yes!" she suddenly snapped it annoyed her sometimes that he could be so dense sometimes.
"Why?"
"Because….it's not right…."
"I don't get it. It was just of hug between friends."
"Look forget it, it doesn't matter that was long ago."
"If you're bothered because of that then" he tried not to blush.
"Then what?" she raised an eyebrow.
"Then…you can hug me if you want to, I don't see nothing wrong with it."
"Hug you….?"
"You don't have to if you don't want to…."
The older Farron stood in thought while Naruto knew she wasn't going to accept his kind gesture. He couldn't be any more wrong and he was surprised when Lightning did hug him, he was at a loss of words. The pink haired soldier wrapped her arms around him and she admitted it felt good to hold him like this, she felt safe and secure and like all of her problems can simply be erase. It felt even better when he hugged her back, mimicking her wrapping his arms around her back. They stood there for a minute in the hug while both felt happy and calm it felt like they were in the embrace for an hour. They broke it looking at each other smiling, if it made her feel better than it was worth it at least for the blond jinchurikki.
"See there's nothing wrong with hugging a friend."
"Friend…." her eyes softened a little.
"What's wrong?" he noticed the change in her expression.
"Nothing let's go back."
When they returned to the spot they saw Hope was still sleeping peacefully, the teen was lying on a rock using it as a pillow. It was hard to use a hard rock for one thought, but it was the only thing they had for the moment. Now that they were officially enemies of Cocoon it will be impossible to spend the day in a nice inn, they lost the chance to sleep in a nice and comfortable bed. As well as dying of hunger now they will have to get their own food, right now they were using Naruto's sandwiches but they won't last forever. Being a l'Cie was the hardest thing and the worst thing that could happen in their entire lives. Both former soldiers lied on a rock they were at each side while Naruto was ready to rest.
"Mom….?" Mumbled the silver haired teen in his sleep, making the Uzumaki to give a chuckle
Lightning just gave a small smile at the irony she was no mother material" not by a long shot."
"Lightning….?"
She frowned turned to the whiskered blond" I told you its Light."
"Sorry I got used to call you by the later it's hard to call you by another name. So why did you decided to change your name….again?"
She stood in thought" I don't know…."
"I think I know" Naruto was grinning.
"You do?" she raised an eyebrow.
"It's because the mighty tough barrier around Lightning Farron is finally weakening, allowing to show your softer side."
The pink haired soldier rolled her eyes" please you don't know what you're talking about."
"Yes I do, you're now opening to others showing your caring side. It's because you're starting to grow attached to Hope."
"You're wrong."
"No I'm not you're growing attached to him just like you are attached to me."
"Who says I'm attached to you?" she hide her grin.
"You don't?" he was about to cry anime tears.
"No."
"That's so harsh."
She hide her chuckling completely she actually enjoyed teasing the blond a little. The small fun ended when she felt her eyes getting heavy, that it has become too hard for her to keep them open. It couldn't be helped she hasn't gotten any rest since she boarded the Purge train, almost two days with no sleep. Naruto has quitted his crying noticing that the pink haired soldier was about to fall asleep, he knew that she was tired probably more exhausted than Hope.
"Why don't you get some rest and I'll take the first watch?"
"Sure you can do that?"
"It's not a matter of can or can't there are some things you just do right?" he smiled at her.
She smiled back hearing her words to Hope" right…."
"Don't worry I'll wake you up later."
"You better."
As he saw her closing her eyes he grinned a little" goodnight mom…."
He got hit by a rock making him fell and a lump on his head, courtesy of the older Farron.
(Time skip)
"Okay…."
The trio managed to arrive at the Guardian Corps checking station, but only one problem. The entire place was desolated destroyed and abandoned it looked like a wasteland worse than the Vile Peaks. Lightning wasn't surprised she knew something like this would happened sooner or later, the Sanctum has enemy l'Cie on the loose they would never let them get to a transportation area. They weren't going to get to their destination so easily, obviously.
"What happened here?" asked Hope.
"PSICOM took the place down probably" replied the pink haired soldier.
Naruto sighed" so much for getting transportation to get to the Gapra Whitewood…."
"We go on foot."
"Yep the hard way."
"Is it legal for PSICOM to take down an entire facility run by the Guardian Corps just like that?" said the silver haired teen.
"They can because they're PSICOM, any order from them is absolute and must be obey at all cost."
"Naruto is right PSICOM are the private Sanctum troops they take orders from high officials, even from the primarch himself too. So in other words they're high ranking than the Guardian Corps" said Lightning.
(Scene change)
(Location: Sanctum Guardian Corps ship bridge area above the skies of Cocoon)
Snow was handcuffed staring at the bridge area, his gaze followed through the windows watching some of the Sanctum ships passed by. Next to him stood Fang and not too far from her stood Sasuke, who has been quiet for a while which it wasn't new for the tall blond. Remembering that he was captured by the military at Lake Bresha and he found quite the surprises, first that he one of them an l'Cie was helping the Sanctum, the other that the Uchiha was also aiding the military not knowing why since he supposedly resigned from the position. At least he was still alive for now, and the others from the group were probably all right because Lightning and Naruto was with them. He reminded himself that they took Serah's crystalized body with them he didn't want to know what they could want with her.
Fang went to him while more ships fly by" couldn't run if you wanted to."
Sasuke gave a chuckle at her comment because it was very much true he knew Raines had his sights on the l'Cie group.
From the clouds came the large ship the Lindblum ready to take the ship carrying their prisoner, Snow was quite impressed by the sight of it.
"Hoo-hoo-hoo look at you wonder what's on the hood of that thing?"
"Keep your pants on. You'll get a peek soon, just try and behave."
"That will be a problem" Sasuke said.
"I'm not gonna make any promises" replied the NORA leader.
"Told you…."
The Pulsian warrior chuckle" cheeky boy aren't ya we'll see how long that lasts?"
"It will last forever" said the Uchiha.
"He'll behave one way or another."
"Am I supposed to feel threatened?"
"It all depends on your behavior mate."
"Like I said won't make any promises."
"Seriously Snow behave yourself and nothing will go wrong" said Sasuke.
(Scene change)
A group of Cavalry soldiers entered the hangar bay area with the handcuffed Snow. The NORA leader wasn't afraid that he was prisoner by the Sanctum or that he will get executed for being an l'Cie. Fang and Sasuke stood next to the tall blond while a soldier came to them.
"He's come to see you."
Snow saw a man wearing a military uniform he seemed to be of high rank, he was definitely in charge seeing that the soldiers were giving him a salute as he passed them by. He was the leader of the group that captured him, he was confused and he could use some answers starting with Sasuke and the l'Cie woman who seemed to be his partner. Finally he was a few feet from the man and at first glance he didn't looked like he was such a threat, but one thing he knew is to never judge characters from their looks. Sasuke and Fang were standing next to the general in each side.
"Halt!" one of the soldiers accompanying him stopped him from progressing further while other soldiers saluted their general.
"You must be Snow" Raines said.
He extended his hand ready for a handshake" Cid Raines Brigadier general of the fleet…."
"Hi Cid, thanks for the escort" the NORA leader wasn't going to shake his hand.
Sasuke frowned for his rude behavior" he can be worse than Naruto sometimes…."
"Apologies" he lowered his hand.
"I just had a few questions to ask you. If it works like they tell us that means she must have fulfilled her focus."
Snow saw the two watchdrones bringing the crystalized Serah, passing the blond by" Serah!"
Fang hold him showing that he was behaving wrong while Sasuke shook his head because the tall blond never listens to what he's told.
"Fulfilled her focus as a tainted Pulse l'Cie, that is."
"You think she was out to destroy Cocoon?"
"I'd hardly be alone if I did. When it comes to Pulse who would claim to know anything I need the truth for the sake of Cocoon."
"We're from Cocoon, shipping us out, purging innocent people that's how you lend us a hand?" replied the NORA leader.
"Those are the Sanctum methods. The public fear what it doesn't know it's grown tired of living in constant terror of these threats from the world below. So the Sanctum devised a plan for you l'Cie."
"I'll bet…."
"A public execution…."
Snow reacted pushing back but the soldiers hold him tight.
"The people don't know any better. Strike down the phantoms before their eyes, and they sleep like babies."
"No!" he finally had it breaking free from the soldier's hold.
Fang kicked him knocking him down while Sasuke approached him looking annoyed.
"I said behave yourself…."
"The Sanctum has intelligence on the other l'Cie already. It's only a matter of time" said Raines.
"You'll never catch them."
"I see we'll need your help then, won't we?" he left.
The soldiers have grabbed him while he tried to fight them off" no Serah…."
"Since you didn't behave you'll be staying at a cell. Don't worry the Lindblum's cells are more comfortable than the one from the previous ship" said Fang.
"He had it coming" replied the Uchiha.
They left taking Snow away but eventually they will tell him what was going on. They needed him in order to find the other before the Sanctum does. Sasuke has returned to what he had in mind, he needed to become strong ready to fight against the army PSICOM among them. The Uchiha didn't felt any sympathy for the military unit he used to be a part of, he was going to show no mercy because they won't show it either. Touching his brand the clock was ticking, it was time to pick up the pace and begin his training in this new curse given to him. He had a feeling Naruto and Lightning we're all right, the Uzumaki was probably getting strong too so he wasn't going to be left behind.
"Time for the training…."
"You don't waste time do you all right got a particular place in mind?" said the Pulsian warrior.
"I do, Raines won't mind. Follow me."
(Scene change)
(Location: PSICOM headquarters deployment facility Eden)
Naabat reached the area watching as more PSICOM troops have been sent off to find the enemy l'Cie. Luckily they have managed to keep the public in a state of relaxation, keeping this information regarding their enemy a secret as well as the truth behind the Purge. For now that was the big question, sooner or later the people will find out the constant threat and danger they were all in. So far their forces has been having some problems dealing with them, as l'Cie they have the ability to cast magic and grow strong, stronger than themselves. That is why it was important to hunt them down now, they will become too strong one day to defeat them, and she didn't like how things we're going. She saw Rosh facing a squad before he sent them off, giving a salute the group left the PSICOM colonel turned to see her walking his way.
"Busy as usual aren't you colonel?"
"Lieutenant Colonel Naabat how can I be of service….?"
"I have some valuable information that will help our cause."
She took a small device creating a projection hologram in front of them. Rosh saw that it was a list of a group of people with their picture and their personal information with name, age, occupation, height, weight among other. However the PSICOM colonel noticed three pictures in which he was familiar with, Naabat was well aware of his expression was as serious as always. He didn't seem to react but his eyes had a flicker of doubt in them.
"As you can see we have gathered information on the l'Cie fugitive group on the loose. They are responsible for the problem we experienced during the Purge operation we managed to track them down from Lake Bresh all the way to the Cocoon dead lands. They managed to escape thanks to their malevolent luck, I'm certain you recognized a few faces?"
Rosh knew what she was talking about his eyes were on the pictures of Naruto, Lightning and Sasuke. He remember them those three, of course he would never forget them. Memories came back to him teaching them and training them, moments he felt proud for them. They were even memories he forged that he enjoyed a few laughs with them it was the usual bonding between a teacher and his students.
"Those three used to be cadets of the military academy under your direction long ago. I hope you're not having any second thoughts, I assure you they will be hunted down and brought to justice."
"..."
"Colonel Rosh I know you hold a lot of respect for those three. I have also come here to ensure that you're willing to cooperate with the Sanctum in the search for the l'Cie."
"Forgive me lieutenant Naabat but telling me this is an abomination. I am a soldier who swore an oath to fight for the Sanctum and the people, those days don't matter anymore. My duty is to serve and protect the people of Cocoon any hostile forces that threaten the security and safety of our people will be disposed of."
"Then you won't feel any hesitation when it will come to hunting them?"
"None whatsoever, what happened in the past stays in the past. Those three are l'Cie now, the enemy I will fight."
Naabat smiled" you have made the right choice colonel I'm sorry I have some doubt in you."
"You don't have any hesitation in you as well lieutenant I remember you were very loyal to Sasuke Uchiha."
"That is none of your business colonel, stay out of there" the lieutenant gave him a glare she still hasn't gotten over his resignation, but at least she holds the pleasurable moment when she kissed him.
"I apologize for offending you lieutenant Naabat."
"Get back to work colonel the Sanctum never sleeps on the job, especially when it comes to dealing with Pulse l'Cie."
"Of course mam'" he gave a salute before leaving.
"I haven't forgotten about you Sasuke, I'll make sure you pay for betraying me. No one leaves lieutenant colonel Jihl Naabat and lives to get away with it."
To be continued
Another chapter down I'm happy for over 300 reviews as always thank you very much to everyone. I'm glad Naruto has finally learned aerora pretty soon he will learn more techniques also I would like to make an announcement that I have an editor for the story (you know who you are). Remember to keep the reviews coming.
Now SPOILER ALERT from XIII-2:
Watching the latest trailer it seems something happened to Snow with the way Serah talk about him to Noel. He's supposed to be her fiancée and she told Noel that her engagement necklace is of a promise "a good friend" made her from fiancée to good friend, something must have happened. On another subject yes Hope is back and he looks bad ass (somehow I can see the Hope/Lightning fans cheering loudly and like they are going to have a field trip with this game *sighs*).
End of spoiler remember to review and I will see you all next time farewell.
Next time: The weight of revenge