Disclaimer: it doesn't matter how many times I say I must. I don't own Naruto and Final Fantasy they are the rightful property of Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

** Communications through radio and phones.

Chapter 19 The weight of revenge

(Location: The Lindblum Sanctum Guardian Corps above the skies of Cocoon)

Sasuke lead Fang through the corridors of the Lindblum like he already knew the ship inside and out. Which it was true since it wasn't his first time here, he knew the ship better than the Pulsian warrior who's only been familiar with the ship for a couple of months. The Uchiha was inpatient and he was too anxious to begin his training and get strong, so far he hated being an l'Cie. He was too weak from his original self, back when he had his sharingan and his jutsu this was unacceptable. The only thing that caught his attention for being an l'Cie is that they have the ability to summon, an Eidolon. Remembering how the Shiva sisters were summoned the first time giving Snow their trial before claiming their power. It was interesting to him what they were capable of, the great power they possessed maybe being an l'Cie won't be so bad if he gets the opportunity to have one.

That's what he wanted and to get strong as well, and he will do it with the woman following him. The former PSICOM soldier turned to take a glance at the Pulsian beauty who only gave him a big smile, happy or looking forward to begin the training. Either it was a good sign or a bad one it was anyone's guess, but the Uchiha didn't put it much thought. He knew she was strong so he needed a good sparring partner, one that was well prepared as an l'Cie. Snow was out of the picture since the NORA leader was imprisoned for now and that he was a fresh l'Cie, not fully aware of his new powers. Fang on the other hand was very well known due that she has been an l'Cie longer than anyone, just like Vanille. She was the perfect candidate to help him with his training, because of her strength and not by her amazing looks and yes that the Uchiha has admitted that she was attractive.

Reaching a door Sasuke pressed a couple of buttons from a control panel, entering a code. The door slid open, he entered followed by the Pulsian warrior it was a large room. However it was empty no devices, no projection screens, it was just an empty space. The perfect setting for them to have special training, the sooner they start the better no complaints from the Uchiha, he needed this. Taking a glance at the woman she looked pretty cam, she was looking around there was enough space to have a couple of matches. The Uchiha stretched his arms and muscles while Fang grinned a little, he was really looking forward somehow his anxiety made her the need to fight.

"You seem very eager to start" the female warrior gave a grin.

Sasuke has sheathed Masamune turning to his opponent" let's make this more interesting from the Euride plant."

The Pulsian beauty grinned taking her lance opening it for combat" let the torture begin."

"Torture….?"

"That's my definition for the training I'm going to give you dear."

The Uchiha didn't reacted he wasn't intimidated by her comment, remembering when he fought her at the Euride energy plant. She was tough but something tells him that she wasn't fighting him with everything she had, with this training she will dropped that façade. With a swift movement he lunged at her with Masamune in hand, it was blocked by the Pulsian warrior holding her lance firmly tight. She was grinning expecting a sudden surprise attack, she quickly countered with a kick making contact. The former PSICOM soldier got back to his feet, slightly shock that he was hit so suddenly. Fang has made the next move charging with blitz which the Uchiha was familiar with he blocked it along with another kick. His eyes widened the female warrior has jumped landing behind him he wasn't fast enough to react in time.

Fang has grabbed his hands putting pressure in her hold, it was enough to make Sasuke let go of his sword. He fell on his knees due to her hold and the Pulsian warrior didn't show mercy, she put her leg on his back like she was dominating him. This training was important to him she was very well aware of that, it was the reason why she wasn't going to hold back or why she chose to be this harsh. But she also knew he can take this since he was a former soldier of PSICOM, having an idea that the training he received at the military academy was hellish tough. If he only knew what she has in store for him, she grinned staring at the Uchiha who was glaring at her it was amusing. She tightened her hold making him flinched, his expression says it all that he was trying desperately to break free.

"Her grip is inhuman….I knew she was strong but this."

"First lesson in the training mate never let the enemy get behind you."

"I already know that…."

"Then why did you let me get behind you?"

"You caught me by surprise."

"If the Sanctum catches you by surprise like that, then you're already dead."

"I don't need a lecture from you to know that."

Even if she was holding him with one hand while the other was holding her lance Fang still had plenty of strength left. Sasuke finally broke free reaching Masamune while the female warrior gave a small grin, she blocked his attack. The Uchiha jumped from behind her quickly grabbing her hands, now she was in his own hold. He tightened the hold making the Pulsian woman to drop her weapon she was impressed with his quick thinking, and speed. The former PSICOM soldier made sure she wouldn't be able to escape, he was grinning remembering learning this hold at the military academy. It's supposed to be the most effective submission hold there is. Making pressure on her muscles making the victim to lose its energy and strength, the victim will be defenseless and at the mercy of the one performing the hold.

"You showed me and I have improvised…."

"Not bad mate I can't feel my arms" Fang was actually grinning in amusement.

"Right now you're completely defenseless, like this I can kill you any time I want."

"Aren't we being a little overconfident?"

"You know I'm right."

"Really….I guess this hold will be enough to stop someone from Cocoon. But not someone from Gran Pulse…."

"What?"

He was shocked when the Pulsian warrior has turned around hitting him with a roundhouse kick. She regained her balance taking her lance back as Sasuke charged at her with Masamune, they clashed weapons once more. They clashed again while the Pulsian beauty jumped with a kick, getting an opening which it failed the Uchiha has blocked her opportunity. And although the situation looked bad and it will probably annoy him, it wasn't he seemed to be enjoying this. Because this woman was more than he looks she was really giving it everything she had, making the training worth it. Another attack but it wasn't blocked, Fang has dodged it and managed to get behind him. To his bad luck she has taken him in another hold, pretty amusing that she was still grinning. The outcome that the former PSICOM soldier was chuckling making the female warrior raised an eyebrow at his action.

"You find this funny?" she gave a small smirk.

"I knew it….I knew you were holding back at the Euride plant."

"True but not as much as you" a grin has formed on her lips.

"You knew….?"

"It was easy to tell. You could have kill me any time you wanted but you didn't, you choose to heal me I saw it clearly that you were stronger."

"Then why were you holding back if you knew I had the advantage over you?"

"I had to. I had no intentions in killing anyone I was only after the Sanctum Fal'Cie remember….?"

"An evil warrior from Pulse didn't want to kill anyone from Cocoon" he grinned struggling with her hold.

"Can you smell the irony I know?" she gave a grin.

Fang tightened her hold" and here's lesson number two, never underestimate anyone from Gran Pulse especially me."

"Thanks for the lesson but didn't you told me you and Vanille were the only ones from Pulse?"

"Well don't underestimate me" she countered with a smirk.

Sasuke wasn't losing confidence in his abilities he knew not to underestimate, his new l'Cie abilities. Breaking from Fang's hold again he raised Masamune to her right she dodged the attack, and before she went with a counter attack she was pinned by the raven haired man. He was clashing weapons with the Pulsian warrior his sword with her lance, both were staring at each other's eyes and at the same they both held a grin. The Uchiha got one hand free releasing fire, ready to cast the fire spell that was all it took for Fang to gasp in shock. She completely broke free escaping the spell that passed her by hitting the ground of the room, she couldn't believe he has use magic here of all places. The Pulsian woman has given him a glare that made the former PSICOM soldier take a step back, feeling intimidated by her expression and dark aura she possesses.

WHACK!

The Uchiha was sent flying after he got hit in the head by Fang's lance luckily she didn't hit him with any of the sharp blades so he was all right. Sasuke was on the ground with a lump bigger than his head he was very well conscious, yet he felt like he has seen this before. Then he remember of course this was familiar it was the same thing that Naruto has gone through with both Sakura and now Lightning, got hit for being an idiot or a pervert. However the problem he saw here is that he didn't do any of the above, which gave him a good reason to glare daggers at the Pulsian beauty like he wanted to rip her throat.

"What the hell was that for?" his expression was obviously pissed but it was a bit comical.

She wasn't intimidated or scared by his look, she kept her glare" are you bloody crazy using magic here, do you want to pissed off Raines that he will kick us off the ship?"

"It's all right this room is magic proof" he dropped his angry look understanding her point but he was still unhappy because of the attack on his head.

"Magic proof….?"

"This room was designed to withstand the damage done by any type of magic attacks Raines came prepared in case I decide to train."

"Oh" she blinked in realization that she made a mistake in hitting him.

"So there was no need for you to hit me!" he rubbed his lump.

"You could have said that from the start mate, oh well what is done is done" the female warrior waved her hand dismissing the matter.

"Hn…."

"That lump looks nice on you though" she gave a grin.

"Hn…." he was annoyed by her comment.

"Are you angry at me?"

"Maybe…."

"Don't be I'm sorry. There I apologized."

"Apologizing won't help me get rid of the headache I'm going to be having soon" the Uchiha rubbed his lump again.

"You want me to kiss your lump and make it better?" she couldn't help but grin, it felt amusing to tease him.

"No" like that was going to help with his headache however the idea stayed in his head.

"Stop whining I didn't hit you that hard."

"Like she doesn't know her own strength, and she has one hell of a grip too."

"Should we resume our training or are you going to be whining like a baby all day?"

The Uchiha readied Masamune" I'm always ready!"

"That's what I want to hear" she smiled he was back to normal again.

"This training is really what I was expecting, I made the right choice choosing Fang for this" he didn't show the amusement grin staring at the female warrior.

(Scene change)

(Location: Ecological research the Gapra Whitewood Cocoon's inner rim)

Lightning and Naruto walked through the open wide blue area all plants were colored the same. Both former soldiers were holding their gun blades in gun mode they were scouting for any enemies ahead. The pink haired soldier waved to him to check his side while he nodded looking around there was nothing in the vicinity so far, so far so good. However the Uzumaki had a bad feeling ever since they have entered to their destination, he didn't like this place one bit even if it's his first time here. It was necessary for them to pass through here in order to reach Palumpolum, and eventually the Sanctum capital of Eden. This was definitely the hardest part in their journey so far, remembering that they will be entering in Sanctum territory furthermore.

The blond jinchurikki gazed over at the older Farron, some concern was reflected in his cerulean eyes. He hasn't forgotten that she planned to rush to Eden without a proper battle plan, too reckless that it didn't suited her at all. It was obvious that she was too caught up in anger and deciding on taking revenge on the Sanctum and the Fal'Cie for what happened to Serah, that was not the right choice according to him. He was fighting to survive and find a way to save both Cocoon and Serah, he wasn't fighting out of revenge. The worst part Lightning wasn't going to talk her problems to him even if she wasn't filled with anger, like she was behaving at the Vile Peaks. The Uzumaki noticed that the former sergeant was staring at all because he stared at her first without meeting their eyes he turned his gaze ahead.

The pink haired soldier ignored his gaze but she could tell that he was worried about her, she felt happy for that but didn't paid attention to it. It annoyed her sometimes that Naruto has to be so damn caring and kindhearted, not to mention selfless he would never talk about his problems but worrying about others instead. She gave a quick glance at him before looking behind her and signaled to their third member to move ahead, shortly Hope walked to her as Naruto went to the two. The whiskered blond was feeling restless making sure that they weren't any enemies he couldn't get the bad feeling away.

"Can't believe we made it…."

"Can't believe we haven't tripped any security alarms so far" followed the Uzumaki.

The large gate behind which it was the entrance the facility started closing slowly, it made a loud noise once it was closed shut. After this there was no turning back but to keep moving forward.

"That'll slow down pursuit" said Lightning.

"For now" added the blond jinchurikki.

"But aren't there troops on this side we can't relax just yet?" asked the silver haired teen.

"That's why I said for now."

The pink haired soldier nodded agreeing with both of them" right we press on, I'll take point you two watch our backs."

"Roger" replied the whiskered blond.

"Actually" the teen started" why don't you let me take point….?"

Naruto was surprised to hear that while the pink haired soldier looked back at him, with some uncertainty in her eyes.

"Can you handle it?"

The silver haired teen turned to the front taking the lead" it's not a question of can or can't."

"He's right" the Uzumaki gave a smile.

"Now you're learning" Lightning gave a small smile giving a nod that she agreed with his decision.

Hope nodded as he walked ahead of the two former soldiers.

"Keep your eyes front, we'll watch the rear."

"Got it…."

She smiled again turning to the whiskered blond who was smiling back at her" what….?"

"Nothing I'm just wondering why you're looking up at Hope so much?"

"We agreed to toughen him up, and you mentioned to raise his confidence. This is the best way to do it."

"Well yeah but I think there's something else, like that you care for him and you want to help him get through this" the Uzumaki was smirking.

"Don't start with that let's go Hope is getting further from us."

"Sure thing" he was still smirking coming up with the right excuse for avoiding the topic.

Catching up to the silver haired teen keeping a close watch on the rear, they spotted that Hope was already in attack position holding his boomerang. There were enemies ahead four leech looking creatures, the teen quickly performed libra getting their information. They were known as crawlers and their weakness was fire that was all he needed to take them down, he had no intention to fail. Lightning has agreed that he takes the lead in their mission he wasn't going to let her down, or Naruto. He cast fire, followed by fira killing two of the crawlers the others were beaten by the two former soldiers. They were really weak not putting up a fight, now they hoped that all of the monsters they encounter here will be that easy to take down.

"We've got your back you call the shots don't stray too far."

The teen nodded feeling better, he was taking care of the front while Naruto and Lightning were taking care of keeping an eye on their rear. Hearing her words he felt confident that he could do this, this experience was part of becoming strong besides fighting the battles. This is what he needed if he wanted to survive, to become strong so that he could face Snow. His only concern regarding the NORA leader is that he was all right so he can face and show him how he feels with him killing his mother. With two former Guardian Corps soldiers no doubt he will achieve his goal over the tall blond he wasn't alone being with people who was supporting him. They passed another circle platform on the pathway and every time they crossed one a light will activate guiding their path, giving them an idea where they were going.

"We can use the lights as a guide to keep us moving in the right direction."

"Is it normal for those lights to be active when we walk by them, or maybe someone is activating them meaning they already know we're here?" asked Naruto.

"Don't know but that's why it's important for us to watch the rear."

"Right…." he remained unsure.

"What's wrong you sound worry?" asked Hope turning to the blond.

"Maybe I am, I don't like this place it's dangerous. This isn't the best place to go on a school field trip."

"Would you rather stay at the Vile Peaks with your friend the Pulsework soldier?" Lightning has given a small grin.

"Forget it I'd rather be here then back there with them" grumble the Uzumaki.

The silver haired teen smiled at her question gazing back at the front" is this place really dangerous?"

"It is. This is a biochemical research facility for the military, it's the place where the bio weapons are develop" replied the pink haired soldier.

"In other words we're going to encountering many monsters with sharp teeth and claws that is why it's dangerous" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Nothing will happen to us, because I'm watching the lead I'll make sure to get us out of here safely" smiled the teen.

"We're counting on you" the former sergeant smiled.

Naruto smiled as Lightning has given Hope another praise to increase his confidence and to think she was against the decision to bring him along with them. He liked how she was encouraging him to do better it was needed for him to get stronger in their mission. When the older Farron acted like this he was happy, because it clearly showed how caring and kind she could be. She would show it more often instead of hiding it like she usually does and pretending like she didn't care, he liked this side of her more. Hope smiled keeping the front guarded whenever they will meet enemies ahead, he will draw his boomerang out ready for a fight. They have encountered more crawlers and thexteron, nothing they could handle. When they were beaten the silver haired teen resumed his duty as taking the lead, and kept on walking.

"Stay sharp remember to stand your ground, don't go chasing enemies on your own it's a sure way to get ambushed we're right behind you. Remember to always analyze the situation so you can form a strategy."

"I got it, I'll do my best."

"Calm down Light he's doing a good job so far, let's put more faith in him."

"It's my job to keep him straight and help him get strong."

"Since when?" he gave a smirk not remembering when she volunteered for the job.

"Since we both agreed to toughen him up if you remember."

"Of course but you know I think I know why Hope called you mom in his sleep."

"What….?"

The whiskered blond smiled" it's because he sees you as his mother."

A vein has popped on her forehead" you mean to tell me I'm motherly material?"

"Yeah…."

"You're making fun of me" she frowned as she stopped walking.

"No I'm not I'm just saying that he probably sees you as a mother with how you're acting towards him. Be careful, I'm counting on you, don't go chasing monsters on your own if you get what I'm saying."

"No I don't get what you're saying, I'm seeing this as you're way to annoy me."

"I'm not annoying you I'm just giving my opinion. You know I'm right after all you used to take care of Serah like she was your daughter, see it makes sense why you can be motherly."

The pink haired woman stood in thought as a way of nostalgia hit her. Images from the past entered her mind when she was little and she used to take care of her younger sister like she was her own daughter, the happy memories she forged with the younger Farron. But it didn't last recent memories to her last birthday when she didn't believed her and threatened her came back to haunt her, she bailed her eyes shut not wanting to remind herself of the guilt she was feeling. Naruto looked at her and noticed her eyes have changed, showing sorrow he felt terrible thinking that it was his fault she was like this.

"Light I…."

"What's going on you guys, I don't want to be on my own here?" shouted Hope from the far distance.

"Right we'll be right there" replied Lightning.

"Sorry about that."

"Look what you made me do it, we're supposed to be watching the rear?"

"Me you're the one that stopped walking."

"You're the one that brought the topic of me being motherly material."

"Why she sounds so offended….?"

The older Farron followed the teen with the Uzumaki closely following her he felt bad for her and thought he should apologize later. After a couple of battles more with some crawlers and thexteron they arrived at the end of the path with an elevator, meaning they were about to leave one of the floors of the bio facility. The sight of the elevator made the silver haired teen think that this place was bigger than he thought, they weren't leaving anytime soon and it won't easy finding the exit. Maybe it was better to ask someone with experience of been here before, his only guess was the two former soldiers with him.

"Have you guys been here before, on duty I mean?"

"Nope this place is not Guardian Corps territory."

"No we haven't. This area's covered by the Woodlands Observation Battalion" she turned to him feeling concern for the teen.

"You scared?"

"Not really, I'm ready to fight if I have to."

"That's the spirit Hope."

The former sergeant has suddenly taken something from her red pack that shocked Naruto. It was the survival knife Serah has given her for her birthday it has really taken the blond jinchurikki by surprise. Never expected she will actually give something so dear and precious to the teen, but the action has made him smiled thinking that she did the right thing.

She offered him the knife" to keep you safe…."

"Take it Hope, that knife is valuable to Light" of course the Uzumaki wasn't going to tell the teen the truth of the survival weapon at least not yet.

The silver haired teen felt taken back but accepted the gift with a lot of gratitude, he opened it seeing the small sharp blade probably sharp enough to do some real damage to anyone.

"Take good care of it" said the whiskered blond.

"I want it back" the pink haired soldier got on the elevator.

"Lightning, Naruto I'm glad I followed you. By myself I would have no chance."

"There's no I in team right we're glad to have you with us. I admit it and Light won't admit it but she's glad to have you here too" Naruto gave a grin.

"Time to move…."

The older Farron elbowed him for his comment as the Uzumaki got on the elevator and Hope was the last one to board it. He was given the honors to press the controls and so he did, the platform started moving up going to a higher floor in the facility. They left the elevator taking a glance that the next floor was similar than the previous one they just were, they resumed their original battle tactic with the silver haired teen taking the lead watching the front, and they were the ones to watch the rear.

"Trust us to cover your tail and stay focused on moving forward."

"I got it."

Naruto however was feeling a little paranoid gazing around the floor, on all direction he had a bad feeling. He sighed and started moving holding his gun blade with Lightning next to him, following Hope bit it didn't change that the blond jinchurikki was feeling better.

"Ever get the feeling your being watched?"

"Probably, this area is filled with security surveillance cameras. Like you said a while ago they probably know we're here already, stay sharp and don't lower your guard for a second."

"Roger."

(Scene change)

(Location: security control room research facility building Gapra Whitewood)

"Well what do we have here?"

Parlos was watching through the monitors of the surveillance cameras with a small grin on his face. The lieutenant has been informed of everything that has happened, the events which most took place in the city of Bodhum and others. The events of the Euride gorge energy plant, the discovery of the Pulse Fal'Cie at the Vestige, the Purge leading to the deaths of thousand civilians. Lastly the destruction of the Vestige, the death of the Fal'Cie and the birth of l'Cie who was the biggest threat to their world enemies that needed to be taken out immediately. The man didn't looked worried or scare at all, he was grinning like he was more amused than concerned although he should be more serious to be seeing the enemy walking into his territory. This turn of events seems to have lightened his mood since he was pretty much death bored with staring at the security cameras and nothing good taking place just the usual.

This has really made him happy and he felt lucky for this opportunity to take place. The enemy has come knocking on his front door when the entire military was out desperately seeking them out, yet here they were. The best of things is that he didn't have to search for them at all, since he was on standby unlike other military factions like PSICO. In the end he seems to have been blessed by lady luck, now he knew waiting has its advantages. The lieutenant continued to watch over the cameras keeping his eyes fixed on the three l'Cie, his grin has never left his face how lovely for the enemy to come barging into his area uninvited.

"What a wonderful sight. I have some l'Cie rats running my maze this is perfect, how great that they chose to enter my little playground. I can't wait to see lieutenant Naabat's face when I tell her I have captured three of the l'Cie fugitives, who knows his eminence might reward me handsomely for my heroic effort for the people of Cocoon."

The older man has taken a small device activating the hologram showing the list of the l'Cie group with their information. It was the same type of device that Naabat used to show Rosh, his eyes were on the three members that were currently at his facility. Staring at it his grin has become wider, he liked what he was seeing, and things couldn't get any better than this.

"The kid's nothing he's useless but two former Guardian Corps officers, one former sergeant and the other a former second in command. Not just that but it's those two, the so called best among the Corps. I'm sure Amodar will be happy when I bring him the bodies of his favorite soldiers, the old man has been very quiet since they left him maybe this will cheer him up."

He activated his communicator" this is lieutenant Parlos all units stand by and wait confirmation for my orders."

(Scene change)

The journey through the floor was no walk in the park, a lot of battles we're fought. Lots have been against bioweapons, it was no surprise remembering where they were. They were aware that there will be more battles ahead the trio has encountered all kinds of biochemical weapons. From crawlers, thexteron and even an Alpha Behemoth however the l'Cie trio have done a good job taking care of them. Teamwork has done it again making them victorious against their enemies, but also battle strategy was one of the key for their wins. Another factor besides that they were developing in strength as l'Cie, but also because they had a good member leading them through the facility. Hope has done a very good job watching the front there has been no hesitation in his face or even fear, he was starting to act like he was an actual soldier.

Lightning will give him advices to get better at his new position and he will obeyed them, Naruto remained quiet since he knew the pink haired soldier was perfect for the job. The silver haired teen will keep his guard up, look at all directions scanning the path ahead, any enemies he meet he will carefully engage them in battle with the two former soldier backing him up. Following the former sergeant's advices he didn't go chasing after the monsters, because it might lead to an ambush so he remained in position with his companions. When the fights were over Hope sheathed his boomerang again and resumed watching the front, the same with Naruto and Lightning. The blond jinchurikki gazed at the pink haired soldier he has seen the small smile she will make every time they won a battle. It showed that she was feeling proud of the teen he was doing a good job so far and believed he wasn't going to let them down.

"You're doing well so far Hope, remember to keep calm and don't haste there's no need to rush. Rushing things might lead to ambushes."

"Right I'll be careful."

Naruto couldn't help but grin at the opportunity" listen to your mother Hope she knows what's best for you."

The silver haired teen has actually understood his joke and he laughed while the Uzumaki praised himself at his joke, giving a mental thumb up.

"I knew it was funny."

He spoke too soon when he felt a powerful dark aura next to him his eyes shrink to the size of a flea Lightning was the source of the dark aura. The former sergeant was obviously not happy with his comment she bailed her fists and sent cold chilling expression at the whiskered blond.

"Um….Light it was just a joke."

"I warned you not to call me mom again didn't I?"

"Well you did-"

The older Farron has grabbed the blond in a headlock making him gasp it looked like they were wrestling with each other. At the same time the Uzumaki was trying to apologize for his silly comment, he saw nothing offensive in calling the pink haired soldier mom. She already saw the idea of her being motherly material as not true, or highly inappropriate for her character.

"Guys….?" Hope turned to the two before he sweat dropped.

Lightning has let the whiskered blond go making him fall to the ground she left him" don't stall Hope you're supposed to watch the front."

"But Naruto he-"

"Ignore him."

"Hey don't leave me behind!" the blond followed them.

"See he's fine."

"Okay…."

The teen resumed his walking while the former soldiers have stopped talking, resuming their duty to watch the rear. Naruto will take glances at Lightning while she ignored him obviously she was pretending like she was upset with him. It was her way to tease him aware that he was smiling at her, or that he will give her one of his silly grins that will make her give a small invisible smile on her face. Eventually both will forget the harmless little incident because it was just a joke and the older Farron didn't saw it as a personal insult, meanwhile Hope has suddenly stopped.

"What is it?" asked the pink haired soldier.

"Something's coming" said Naruto.

The silver haired teen heard the loud noise of engines in the distance" we need to hide!"

He took Lightning's hand as Naruto followed them because he heard the engine sound too. They went to hide behind a tree that gives poor view in hiding they all saw a couple of ships with military soldiers. Naruto and Lightning recognized the uniform they were hearing no doubt they were with the Woodlands Observation Battalion, they were probably doing a usual patrol mission. The pilots didn't even bother looking below them focusing ahead instead, making the teen looked in deep thought. Once they were out of view the silver haired l'Cie was gazing at the direction the soldiers took off.

"They don't seem like they were even looking for us, I mean we're l'Cie we're on the loose."

"PSICOM is keeping it all under wraps. They don't want their failure publicized, better to lose us than lose their pride."

"That seems to be it the Woodlands Observation Battalion is probably unaware of any l'Cie incident. Which means that's good for us" replied the Uzumaki.

"So the other soldiers don't know about us, right?"

"Right, they don't know anything about any fugitives" said the former sergeant resuming her walking.

"For now they don't know, we might have the element of surprise that's an advantage for us."

The blond jinchurikki walked with Lightning, Hope on the front once again. He gazed at all the directions remembering what the pink haired soldier told him, about surveillance cameras he was feeling concerned. If he was right than this journey will get even more dangerous, before they reach the exit from the facility, which he thought it was going to get annoying.

"If this place is filled with cameras then they know about us been here, but I wonder if they know we're l'Cie."

(Scene change)

Parlos was still grinning watching through the monitors at the trio. He has witnessed their performance during battle against some of the bioweapons in the floor, and he was impressed with their strength to take them down quickly. It was more than just being l'Cie but he knew that the two former GC soldiers were already quite skilled, with all the rumors he heard of the best in the Corps. The lieutenant watched the l'Cie trio get on the next elevator heading to another floor of the facility he admitted that watching this was quite entertaining watching them fight his creatures was certainly what he needed. He was honestly feeling bored with nothing better to do, he regretted his decision in becoming the security watchman for today, not anymore. Now things we're going to get better knowing exactly which floor they were going next, the only thing he will complain is that he didn't had a bag of popcorn with him.

"I wonder how long they will last through my maze. They are heading for research corridor of the facility, this ends my boring shift ."

The lieutenant growled activating his communicator" someone bring me a drink and a snack this instant!"

Deactivating it he resumed watching happy that he will have some food and beverages" this is going to be fun, I'm getting so excited."

(Scene change)

(Location: the Lindblum training room)

It wasn't easy for Sasuke in the previous hour sure he has endured a lot of hard training before. When he was training with his team under Kakashi and when he was trying to learn the chidori, it was tough he remember it well. But nothing compared to what he was experiencing now the former PSICOM soldier has been through the worst kind of training, truly painful and with no mercy. Never believe training under Fang will be, to describe it well pure hell. It has been one hour and he was panting heavily while holding Masamune, gazing over the Puslian warrior she was panting too. Though not as heavy as him but she seemed to be reaching some point of exhaustion, his whole body felt like he has trained for hours. It was aching and his muscles were all tensed, he felt like he couldn't take one more step.

Both fighters have fought so fiercely under that hour, using physical and magical at least from the Uzhiha's part. It's like the training has turned into something so personal with the way they fought, like their lives were on the line. He cringed remembering how many times she caught him in different types of submission holds, but he did catch her a few times too. Gazing at the female warrior the former soldier had to give a small grin, she looked tougher than she looks and fiercer too. There was some respect for her because she wasn't like other women he has met before she was very different with the addition that she could probably kick his ass. She was the right person to help him get strong and learn new abilities they were going to need all the strength they could get to fight against the Sanctum.

"She's really strong…." he felt like smiling at the thought.

"Phew….that was great I actually broke a sweat, not bad Sasuke dear" Fang removed some sweat from her forehead.

"One more time" he tried to regain his balance and prevent from falling.

"Don't get careless, you're tired take a break mate."

He wanted to protest and disagree, that he was all right and he could continue. But he will be saying a big fat lie because he could barely kept himself from standing, and not fall down. Sadly he swallowed a bit of his pride and gave a nod he walked to the nearest wall of the room and got seated. It felt good to be taking a small rest from the kind of training Fang was putting him through, she wasn't kidding when she called it torture the irony.

"Be back in a sec" she left the room.

A few minutes later Sasuke tried to get up but he failed, his body was still weary. Times like this that he wished he had Naruto's stamina he'll be able to last through the training for so many hours. He wanted to resume the training, slacking off in the middle of training wasn't his style. Although this was a break he wanted to continue he was feeling that stubborn, looking around Fang hasn't return yet. It was making him wonder where she could have gone the thought that she ditched him crossed his mind. If that was the case he wasn't going to be happy with the Pulsian warrior, he tried getting up again but failed. Giving a frustrated sigh he turned his gaze to the ceiling why his body does has to have limit, he cursed under his breath. The Uchiha heard the door of the room opened he saw Fang walking to him smiling, he felt annoyed seeing her because she took her time to return.

"Where were you?"

"Around…."

The Uchiha frowned at her resting his head on the wall while the Pulsian beauty got seated next to him, he didn't noticed that she was holding something.

"Looky what I got?" she happily showed him what she was holding in her hand.

The raven haired man turned to see a bottle it was obvious some kind of liquor checking the brand he didn't recognized it. After all he wasn't a fanatic of alcoholic beverages so he wasn't that familiar with them, he hasn't even seen that type of drink the times he's been at Lebreau's bar. He raised an eyebrow at the Pulsian woman something was up with the way she was looking at him, especially with the bottle.

"That looks expensive, where did you get it?"

"I found it lying somewhere in the ship" she smiled.

"You found it or stole it?"

"You're accusing me of being a thief I'm hurt."

"Maybe, I don't believe you found it lying around."

"What's the point I just found it and take it?"

"Exactly…."

(Scene change)

"Hey where the heck is my bottle of Cocoon shimmer?" shouted an upset Rydgea who was in the mood to drink some of the bottle he bought.

"Have you seen it?" he asked a random Cavalry soldier.

"No sir I don't even know what you're talking about."

"It's a high quality wine I bought while I was in Eden. I had it in my quarters but now it's gone, someone must have taken it."

"Well sir your guess is as good as mine because I don't know a thing about it."

"Where is it?"

The Cavalry soldier was frustrated" damn it that bottle cost me a thousand gil!"

(Scene change)

Sasuke sighed he knew she was lying, it was impossible to find an expensive liquor battle just like that in the ship. Unless if she stole it from someone he leaned his head on the wall, trying to ignored that the Pulsian warrior was still smiling happily at him like she has an interesting toy to play with. The Uchiha has slowly gazed at the female warrior and she was waving the bottle in a friendly way, expecting him to join her. His body was still feeling tire this wasn't the time to be partying like a couple of drunks.

"Come Sasuke drink with me."

"I don't drink in the middle of training."

"Don't be such a sourpuss, this is part of our break join me."

Fang has opened the bottle taking a sip" hmm….not bad I guess Cocoon can have decent drinks after all."

"You shouldn't be drinking either…."

"Don't worry about me dear, I can handle alcohol better than handling a fight."

Eventually through the woman's happy and carefree attitude the Uchiha gave up. Somehow he didn't mind Fang was always positive, and somehow he didn't want to disappoint her. Being with her he felt positive too, not sure whether that was a good sign or a bad one. The Pulsian beauty took another sip enjoying the taste before she offered some to her friend, the smile never left her face.

"Hope you don't mind sharing my l'Cie germs."

The former PSICOM soldier rolled his eyes at her silly comment, of course she was only kidding. He took the bottle from her and took a sip the beverage has hit his taste buds rather quickly.

"No bad bit of strong for my liking."

"Really well to me it's not that strong. I have drunk stronger drinks than this one."

"Then you won't have a problem drinking this" he gave her the bottle back.

She smiled taking another sip a short silence fell on the two l'Cie. Sasuke just stood resting and hoping he could feel better again so he can resume the training, there were a lot of things he wanted to try on. Fang was quiet since she was enjoying the beverage she needed the break after the training admitting that the Uchiha was quite strong. It surprised her when he told her that being an l'Cie he was weak, and then she remembered when he was holding back at the Euride energy plant. It made her wonder why he would think he was weak maybe he was underestimating his own skills. She knew he was strong when they fought for the first time, or maybe he had issues with getting strong. In her deep thought she took another sip of the bottle while taking a glance at the raven haired man, he was resting his eyes were barely open.

"Sasuke….?"

"Hn…."

"You said you got weak when you became an l'Cie."

"Yeah…."

"What do you mean by that?"

"Exactly what I meant, being branded I lost my strength. I used to be so strong but now, I'm not even half as strong."

"You sure about that mate I see you strong already?"

"You don't understand, becoming an l'Cie I lost my strength and my techniques I can't do any of them with the way I am now."

Fang rubbed her forehead taking the information" you're not making any sense. I've never met someone who became an l'Cie and lost his powers, at least not on Gran Pulse."

"That's why I need you to help me master this new power, maybe I can learn something new, maybe I can become stronger than I used to be."

"You need me that much huh" a grin formed on her lips" I never felt so needed before."

"Don't joke about that…."

"I'm not I'm happy I'm useful to you, I never mind helping friends."

"Hn…."

"You said you can't do any of your techniques when you got branded, then does that mean that blue spear you used to injured me at the Euride plant that's one of them."

"Yeah among others more" the Uchiha opened his eyes giving a soft sigh.

"Including the sharingan, curse that Fal'Cie for doing this."

"That really is weird you're quite in a bind mate. Maybe you'll learn them again."

"Hardly doubt it…."

"Don't be so negative, here drink you probably need this more than me."

The Uchiha was going to refuse having to take another sip at the bottle, but he didn't know why he chose to accept it. He drank some more although he agreed not to take another sip, the beverage was strong so he didn't want to get drunk he was still in the middle of training. The images came to him from the fireworks festival when Fang told him her story, why she was here and her crystal slumber from hundreds of years. The truth hit him that she has opened up to him on that night, she told him everything yet he hasn't said a word to her about him. His reason is that she wasn't going to believe him and he was probably right, his story was crazier than her but at least hers was more reasonable and made sense. The Uchiha finished his drink before giving the bottle back to the Pulsian warrior he was in thought taking a small glance at the l'Cie next to him.

"What's wrong you've gotten too quiet?" Fang turned to him looking a little worried.

"It's nothing…."

"You sure….?"

"Fang….?"

"What is it?"

"Here goes nothing…."

"It might be better if I tell you my story you told me yours it will be fair if I tell you mine."

"Oh….you're feeling like telling me now why did you suddenly change your mind?"

"Like I said it might be for the better for you to know."

"Not like I have something to lose by telling her."

The Pulsian woman smiled she felt happy he was going to tell her, it felt like he trusted her she took a quick sip" all right dear I'm all ears."

The former PSICOM soldier stood quiet but he eventually let the first words out" I'm not from Cocoon."

"What?" her eyes widened.

"I wasn't born on Cocoon."

"Then are you…." she was shocked thinking the impossible.

"I wasn't born on Pulse either."

"Okay…." now Fang looked like he was starting to act like he was crazy.

"I'm not originally from Cocoon or Pulse…."

"You really have me confuse here mate, if you weren't born on Cocoon or Gran Pulse where were you born then?"

"I was born on another world completely different from yours and Cocoon, in another dimension. I am from a village called Konoha located in the elemental countries, there I was a shinobi it's the same of being a soldier under the command of their superior. I was in the middle of a big fight and suddenly I ended up in Cocoon, it's been seven years since I've been here but I'm not the only one my friend Naruto is also from Konoha too. We're both strangers in this world, half strangers we know a lot about Cocoon but little of Pulse due that the Sanctum keeps Intel on the lower world very confidential."

Of course he obviously left out a lot of information from his home world, among them the massacre of his clan at the hands of his older brother and his fight with Naruto at the Valley of the end. He still wasn't ready to tell his personal life of how he lost everything dear to him, and how he was put on the path of revenge. Maybe one day he will tell her everything but for now this will do, he was doing enough just telling her his place of origin. Gazing back at the female warrior her expression was of confusion and bewilderment, which it made him sweat dropped.

"You don't believe me?"

"You just told me you're from another world that isn't Cocoon and Gran Pulse. And this world is in another dimension, that somehow you and your friend got here a long time ago?"

"Seven years to be exact."

"You're right I don't believe you in the slightest."

The Uchiha sighed" I wouldn't make things up we don't even know why we got here to begin with."

"Maybe it's to help us with our focus…."

"Maybe, I don't care about that anymore it's not like it will fix anything."

"Well I don't see any reason for not believing you mate, so I guess I'll believe your crazy story for now" she took another sip from the bottle realizing that was the last drop.

"Make up your mind you either believed me or you don't?" he sweat dropped again.

"I'll believe you and not believe you too" she gave a grin.

"Hn…."

"The drink was good while it lasted I hope you got plenty of rest. I want to resume with the training if that's all right with ya?"

Sasuke grinned getting up" that's fine by me I'm ready."

The Pulsian warrior took her lance for battle" hope you're not drunk…."

"I should say the same to you."

"Please it's going to take more than one bottle to make me drunk."

"I thought women can't hold the alcohol like us men?"

Fang was grinning at his comment" I'm no ordinary woman dear."

The Uchiha chuckle at her comment unsheathing Masamune" let's start from the top…."

"I'll try to go easy on you this time."

(Scene change)

(Location: Research Corridor the Gapra Whitewood)

The l'Cie trio has gone deeper into the bioweapon research facility, which it turned out to be not as easy as they thought. They have encountered too many bioweapons along the way that has taken a lot of their time to fight them all. Due to their path it was hard to lose them, avoiding any battles was impossible they had no choice but to fight. But even with all those battles Hope wasn't showing any signs of exhaustion, maybe because the silver haired teen has gotten used to the fights. Either way he has shown to be a good leader in combat, leading the group through the facility with a lot of precaution following every single advice Lightning has told him, the teen obeyed them all. It looked like he was a soldier following orders from his superior, never giving any thought of even disobeying them.

After fighting a group of thexteron and an Alpha Behemoth they reached a bulkhead Fal'Cie. Which it was a door that allowed access to the next area on the other side of the facility they stopped waiting for it to open its doors. The silver haired teen panted a little while resting his hands on his knees, it was hard not to get tire after all the fighting they have done so far. There was more to come he knew it, because the facility was truly huge with so many floors, he will have to get used to it. But he remained calm and refused to whine about it, because all of this experience was going to be worth it if it will help him to grow strong. Everything was made for the moment that he will finally face Snow and get his revenge but there was another thing that came to his mind. He started thinking about the others that chose not to get involve in Lightning's plan to take on the Sanctum.

The young l'Cie gave a sigh while sitting on the ground to take a small break" I wonder how the others are doing."

His comment has made Naruto gave a small grin but didn't said a word, he kept his eyes on the bulkhead ahead.

"Sazh and Vanille?" said Lightning staring at the bulkhead too.

"I'm sure those two are all right if they have gotten away to safety" replied the whiskered blond no wanting to make the teen worry.

"Who knows even if they got away they'll get caught eventually. Then they'll have to choose resist or surrender" said the pink haired soldier.

"You're right there's no place left to run or hide from the Sanctum" replied the Uzumaki his eyes were now showing concern for the other l'Cie.

"Surrender…." said the teen thinking about one more member of the group.

"Do you think he's still alive?"

Naruto reacted there was only one male member of the group he could be thinking, and he had a feeling who it was.

The former sergeant turned to the teen" you mean Snow?"

"I wonder what's up with Snow he seems to hold some sort of grudge with him."

"My mom….he tricked her into fighting."

"Yeah that must be it, whatever it is it has something to do with Hope's mother."

The older Farron thought of the NORA leader feeling honest about him" he's too stubborn to die, and that's his best quality."

"His only best quality according to Light" the Uzumaki gave a smirk.

"He's arrogant and chummy from the get-go. He thinks he's everyone's pal, never liked him much."

The pink haired soldier noticed when Naruto chuckled after hearing that, she frowned slightly but decided to let it slide for now. Knowing the whiskered blond he was probably thinking of a way to bug her about what she just said.

"He leads around a bunch of kids-gang called NORA."

"Where'd did they get the name Nora?" Hope thought it was ironic that Snow's gang was named after his mother.

"It's a stupid acronym. Their little code stands for No Obligations, Rules or Authority must be nice."

"I like their code" replied the Uzumaki while Lightning ignored him.

Finally the bulkhead Fal'Cie opened its door revealing their path further, meaning their little conversation and break was over.

The l'Cie teen got up" it's irresponsible…."

"Maybe but I know Snow and his gang and they're not that reckless. They may not have any military experience and they may not be soldiers. But they can still hold their own in a fight, I've seen them in action and they're not that bad."

"Reckless will always be reckless" Lightning countered his comment although the word was familiar with the Uzumaki too.

"Oh I know about being reckless" the blond gave s grin talking from personal experience.

"Exactly…."

They resumed walking spotting another elevator in the distance. The pink haired soldier heard chuckling once again coming from the Uzumaki which made her frowned again, she seemed to had enough of him.

"What?"

"Nothing…."

"You can't fool me you're chuckling has to do with Snow."

"Maybe" the blond rolled his eyes.

"What is it?" she gave him a warning look.

"Light you know as well as I do that the only reason you don't like Snow it's because he's engaged to Serah."

"That's not it" the former sergeant crossed her arms acting stubborn.

"You can't fool me Light I don't see no other reason for you to dislike him."

"They are plenty of reasons, he's reckless and foolish he doesn't know a thing about leading a group."

"I don't see those reasons being valid at all."

"I just don't like him" a vein popped on the back of her forehead.

"Fine let's say I believe you but what if I was the one in Snow's shoes?"

"What….?"

"What if I was the one who proposed to Serah and I will be your brother in law would you still like me?" the Uzumaki was grinning.

"You propose to Serah?" Lightning raised an eyebrow knowing that it will never happen.

"Yeah…."

"Not gonna happen."

"We're pretending with a big "if" but you never know. I have to admit that Serah is pretty and she's smart, kind very sweet, she could be perfect for a potential wife" Naruto was still grinning.

The older Farron has suddenly got the image of the whiskered blond and her younger sister kissing. Her eyes widened from the shock and it hit her, a pang of jealousy fell on her. Remembering what he said that she was perfect ideal for a wife, she couldn't believe she will actually get jealous of her own sister. Hitting him was so tempting right now, but she remained quiet and followed Hope ignoring the whiskered blond completely.

"Light where you going wait up!"

He followed them to the elevator and gasped when the pink haired soldier activated the elevator. It started going down and the blond jinchurikki had no choice but to jump to the moving platform, he landed on his face while Hope sweat dropped at the scene. The Uzumaki was seeing stars before snapping back to reality, his cerulean eyes were on Lightning who wasn't pleased that he made it here.

"What gives Light you almost left me back there?"

"That was the idea."

"Huh….?"

"Tch…."

"Guys" Hope started not knowing what was going on.

(Scene change)

Parlos was still watching the security cameras gazing at the three l'Cie that were still traveling the bioweapon facility, only this time he had some refreshments. The lieutenant was holding a bucket of popcorn on his right hand and his left hand was holding a soda can, he was enjoying himself like he was watching a very good action movie. After watching them entering his facility he knew he had to watch their every move and he was glad he did, because of that he started enjoying the show. Watching them fight off his creatures was really fun, no longer he was feeling bored watching the surveillance. He happily took another sip from his soda and took more of the popcorn, stuffing his face in the process not caring that he might choke he can use the beverage to help him swallow the snack.

"This is better than watching one of those fighting channels from Eden."

He kept his gaze at the as they were riding another elevator that was reaching a lower floor in the facility, the older man already knew where they were going" looks like they're heading to the lower levels, to bioweapon research site D that is unfortunate for them. That is where we keep the most dangerous weapons that we still don't have fully control off."

Unfortunately for the lieutenant he was receiving an incoming transmission from the control. He wasn't happy because he was in the middle of enjoying this further show, watching the l'Cie fighting the bioweapons. The incoming transmission has put him in a bad mood, cursing of the person who was contacted him now of all times.

"Whoever the bastard is better have a good explanation for disturbing me."

He pressed the button allowing the person to be shown on screen" what the hell do you-"

Parlos has stood frozen completely turning pale when he saw the face of primarch Disley on the screen as the individual who has contacted him" yo….your eminence what a surprise it is truly an honor."

*Greetings lieutenant Parlos.*

"Please your eminence forgive my rudeness just now, I am quite busy at the moment."

*Yes I can see that* the elderly man noticed the bucket of popcorn and the soda can.

"Anyway your eminence how can I be of service to you?" the older man was really nervous.

*I have come to you to deliver a message to you from our guardian Eden.*

"I see I'm truly honored, what the message is?"

*Eden has told me that the l'Cie fugitives are in your facility.*

"Eden is correct as always I already know I have them under current watch. Do not worry I will make sure they don't leave this facility."

*As a personal request lieutenant, I would like if you can apprehend the fugitives alive. It should be taken as a priority to capture the l'Cie and be brought to justice on our terms, so we can show the citizens of Cocoon that we are protecting them from any Pulse threat.*

"Of course your eminence, as you wish."

*One more thing lieutenant Eden has told me. Our beloved guardian has asked you a personal request if you could release your strongest weapon. It wishes to test the strength of the l'Cie.*

"Our strongest weapon….?" Parlos knew what he was talking about.

*Is something the matter?*

"Pardon me your eminence but I don't know if that is wise, we haven't fully tested and we have absolutely no control over it whatsoever."

*I understand your concern for the safety of your men lieutenant after all you're only doing what is right. My deepest apologies it is understandable to hesitate and try to disobey a request from our guardian, the living source that is keeping Cocoon rich with power and life.*

"If that's what Eden wishes for then I won't turn down our guardian. Of course it shall be done your eminence I'm sorry for my behavior."

*You have my gratitude lieutenant Parlos I can always rely on the military of our beloved world, for keeping us safe from any threat.*

The transmission ended while the older lieutenant gave a sigh of relief that the primarch wasn't offended with his behavior before their conversation started. He was truly lucky that Disley didn't condemn him for inappropriate behavior to the Sanctum primarch that will lead to his arrest and strip of his military rank. Calming himself he gazed at the surveillance screens checking on the l'Cie trio, before reaching to his communicator.

"This is Parlos release project 00256, I repeat release project 00256."

*Sir is that safe?* asked a random soldier.

"I gave you an order soldier!"

*Yes sir!*

Ending the transmission Parlos stood in deep thought unsure of his decision" I hope I did the right thing. The Aster Protoflorian is a very dangerous weapon."

(Scene change)

(Location: bioweapon research site D the Gapra Whitewood)

The l'Cie trio reached the next floor which it was darker than the previous ones. Obviously knew they were going to meet more bioweapons on this floor too, meaning more fighting for them. Hope was still leading them watching the front and the same with the former Guardian Corps soldiers, watching the rear. They stopped reaching a couple of chambers with electrical fences they were obviously cells containing more creatures. There were more of them ahead but they were different from the ones they have encountered so far, they were grey colored and they resembled the pantheron and thexteron. Only difference they looked more normal and natural, they didn't seem to be turned into actual bioweapons.

"This is an army facility for turning wildlife into weapons. Civilians aren't allowed here aren't they?" asked Hope.

"We'll have to be sure and tell them if we see any" replied Lightning.

"No civilians aren't allowed here, especially Pulse l'Cie only military authorized personal are allow here" said Naruto.

"Okay so how do we deactivate that fence?" the silver haired teen said gazing at the electrical fence.

"The fences are obviously to contain the animals. If we take care of our pen-mates they should power down" said the pink haired soldier.

"The fences only work if there any animals inside of the cells, so they will obviously deactivate if there aren't any" replied the blond jinchurikki.

"We have to beat them up" Hope took his boomerang ready to fight.

"It's always the hard way for us" the Uzumaki took his gun blade and Lightning followed.

The former sergeant has cast libra on the grey colored creatures" it's called silver lobo its weakness is fire, but it can inflict poison let's be careful."

The fight didn't take that long the trio was strong enough to take on then silver lobo. They were quick enough to avoid their poison attack, and a combination of ruin, blitz, fire and fira was enough to take them down. When they were beaten the fence power down allowing them to continue on to the next cell, the battles got easier for the l'Cie trio. They faced off against more crawlers which by far, were the weakest creatures in the bioresearch facility they were defeated quickly. More silver lobo which was taken out but not as quick as the crawlers, causing another fence to deactivate. Entering another cell they were surprised to that a fence activated locking them inside.

"Caged in like animals" said Lightning.

A Feral Behemoth has jumped in front of them catching the trio by surprise. Eventually they were going to be fighting against the big creatures one way or the other they have prepared their weapons to fight. However the Behemoth, for some odd reason it was only staring at Naruto it growled in fury causing the blond jinchurikki to turned pale. The Uzumaki was nervous because there was something about the monster that sent chills to his spine, maybe because he has met the Behemoth before from somewhere.

"What's with him?" asked Hope.

"Light I think this is the same Feral Behemoth that escaped to Bodhum."

"How can you be so sure?"

The whiskered blond gulped" because it's looking at me like it wants to eat me."

The Feral Behemoth had his attention on the blond jinchurikki ignoring the other two that gave the trio an edge in the fight. Hope started casting protect although the teen felt disappointed that he couldn't perform the water spell, which it was the creature's weakness. Lightning has charged using blitz making a direct hit but the Behemoth ignored her and still has his full attention on the blond, attacking him with his sharp claws. The Uzumaki jumping back and forth he quickly changed Flashflare to gun mode shooting the bio creature between his eyes, he was shocked it was still standing. The Behemoth was hit on his back by ruin and blizzard by Lightning and Hope, the creature used heave to send the blond flying.

The Uzumaki was quicker jumping on the creature he fired a couple of shots but it wasn't enough to kill it. The pink haired soldier joined him firing from her gun blade the bullets weren't doing enough damage. Hope was still firing blizzard since it was the closest spell to water, both former soldiers jumped off dodging another heave attack. Lightning used launch sending the Behemoth flying, both jumped attacking it from the air while the silver haired teen was following the attacks with the ice spell. The combination of the strong barrage eventually killed the Behemoth it fell hard on the ground ending the battle. The trio didn't realized after the fight was over they heard an alarm going off it only meant bad news for them.

"We've tripped the security alarm. The Observation Battalion will be coming" said the former sergeant.

Naruto sighed" things keep getting worse for us l'Cie."

"Let them come" Hope wasn't showing any fear walking out taking the lead again.

Showing that he wasn't afraid and hiding the fact that he was tired, he walked one of the cells showing a large crystal tree. It was tall enough to reach to the next floor upwards they didn't have a problem climbing over it. The l'Cie trio climbed the tree jumping some of the branches it was easy for them, even for Hope. Trouble awaited them when they reached the floor there was a large group of crawlers ready to greet them. Hope has used fire and fira while the two former GC soldiers changed their weapons to gun mode firing and endless barrage of bullets. The crawlers were more hurt by the fire barrage from the silver haired teen and even if they had the disadvantage in numbers, they had the advantage in strength. The fight was over while Hope was panting a lot, no longer he couldn't hide his exhaustion he was not happy to be showing it not wanting to slow down the others.

"Easy Hope take it easy" Naruto saw he was pushing himself hard.

"Take five" Lightning understood he was tired who wouldn't after all the battles they have fought.

The teen nodded feeling so relief that they weren't upset with him he got seated on the ground panting trying to catch his breath. Naruto smiled at the pink haired soldier she was being considerate that they it was wise to take a rest from their journey, even if they were in the wrong place to take one. The blond jinchurikki just stood standing since he wasn't too tire he could still go on, the same about Lightning. After a couple of minutes Hope have stopped panting feeling better but his expression said a thousand words, he has taken the pocket knife the older Farron gave and he stood staring at it. Both former soldiers could tell from his look something was really bothering him.

"What's eating you?" the former sergeant was trying to hide any concern in her voice.

"Want to talk about it?" Naruto put his hand on his shoulder giving the teen a smile.

Hope remained silent he started playing with the knife sheathing the blade, unsheathing back and forth.

"Okay, I can tell you're hung up on something."

"If something's troubling you, you might feel better by talking about it to others" said the Uzumaki.

"Is it the l'Cie thing?" it was the only thing the pink haired soldier could think of.

However another thing came to her mind remembering her last conversation with the teen" its Snow isn't it?"

"Snow….?" The blond was caught by surprise a little.

"….."

"Yeah that would make sense that must be it. Hope you told me at the Vile Peaks that Snow tricked your mother into fighting PSICOM."

"What?" Lightning was slightly surprised.

The silver haired teen was still quiet he has stopped playing with the knife.

"What happened with him?" she sounded forceful expecting that he will tell her, she couldn't hide her concern.

"You wouldn't understand" he finally replied.

"Go ahead and try us" said the whiskered blond.

The pink haired soldier sighed walking to the teen" you, me and Naruto we're partners Hope."

Naruto chuckle" partners, friends they always look out for each other and tell their problems. We'll help you get through anything but you have to tell us what's wrong first."

"Take his cheesy comment to heart" the older Farron gave a small grin at the Uzumaki's corny line.

"It was cheesier than yours Light" the blond gave an equal grin.

The silver haired teen gave a small laugh feeling better like he could talk about it" my mother was killed because of him…."

"What….?" Naruto was shocked.

The teen got an image of his mother falling to her death with the hundreds of people that died during the fight against PSICOM at the Hanging Edge. The painful memory came back to haunt him and the anger for the NORA leader came back at full force, the desire to have revenge was right there burning deep in his heart. He glared at the ground hitting the hilt of the knife over and over again while Lightning and Naruto stood in front of him hearing his short story. The pink haired soldier was knelt in one knee closer to the teen while the whiskered blond stood next to her, just standing there in deep thought.

"It's his fault" he hit the hilt harder this time sheathing the blade once more.

"He needs to pay for it, I'm not ready yet but I will be soon. That's why I followed you guys."

The teen walked out from the older Farron while Naruto looked outraged at what he has said.

"Snow dragged us into all of this you, me, your sister Serah and Naruto he's gotta pay."

"Don't you dare get me involve in this!" shouted an upset Naruto.

"What?" Hope turned to him while the pink haired soldier was shocked at his outburst.

"Naruto….?"

"What's wrong?" followed the teen.

"That's it….revenge that's why you chose to travel with us. I thought you wanted to get strong to defend yourself against the Sanctum but this, get strong so you can go and kill Snow I won't accept this."

"He didn't drag us into this mess, at least me and Lightning chose to board the Purge train to save Serah. Snow followed us to save her too because he cares for her as much as we do, I'm guessing you chose to follow him because you assumed he kill your mother."

"But he did!" snapped the teen.

"I don't believe you!" the Uzumaki snapped back" Snow would never kill a civilian, did you even saw when it happened?"

"Yes I did I was there, I saw when she fell and he failed he couldn't save her. It's his fault she's dead and all those innocent people!"

The blond jinchurikki seemed to be getting more upset" you're so stupid how you can believe that he actually murdered her. There's a huge difference in killing someone intentionally and that person dying by accident as unintentional."

"It was no accident!" some tears were escaping from his green eyes.

"Yes it was Snow was holding on to her trying to save her but he lost his grip, sounds like an accident to me not murder."

"I don't care what you say it's his fault she's gone if he hasn't talked to everyone, convincing them to stand and fight PSICOM she wouldn't have died. It would have been better if they would just do nothing they never stood a chance."

"So it would have been better if they didn't fought back and wait for PSICOM to kill them all at least it's better to die fighting for what you believe in rather than do nothing and wait to get shot."

"Shut up I don't want to hear you anymore!"

"No you will listen to me one way or the other your revenge is meaningless it's not worth it. Just when I was starting to think that you have grown up Hope, looks like I was wrong you're just a scared child looking to justify his cause to have revenge."

"How can you understand me did you lose any family because of the Purge?"

"I did lose someone she was branded as Pulse l'Cie and now she's been turned to crystal and we don't even know if she'll ever wake up again. So maybe I might understand how you feel even if it's only a little."

"It's not the same thing Naruto Serah isn't dead as long as she in crystal she's still alive. My mom didn't turn to crystal she's dead, she's not coming back!"

"Stop it stop talking like you're the only one who has lost precious people. What about any remaining survivor of the Purge finding out that they lost their friends and families, wake up Hope you're not the only victim here we all are!"

The silver haired teen glared at the blond" you're starting to sound like Sasuke I can't stand that!"

"Well maybe I should start acting like him and put some reality in your head. Maybe it can do something to clear all that hatred that is poisoning your heart to urge you to have revenge."

"Just shut up already stop it!"

"I'm not going to shut up until you realize that you're wrong and that you're taking a very dark path, trust me Hope it's not a pretty one."

"I said shut up!"

"No you shut up!"

"Both of you shut up!" Lightning has finally had it with their arguing it was driving her crazy.

"Enough both of you, calm down. Let's not get into any arguments we have a long way before reaching Eden we're not going to waste our time killing each other, it's utterly pointless."

Hope stood quiet realizing that he was acting all wrong, like a complete jerk. He has just snapped at Naruto for crying out loud, one of the people who have been helping through this since the beginning. Apologizing to the Uzumaki was the right thing to do he became too emotional and he didn't felt like listening to the harsh truth of things, he started at him only to take a step back. The teen was scared his eyes were different, they were colored crimson red, his whiskers were darker looking feral. He had fangs it looked like he was staring at a monster he stood frozen in his place, Lightning has noticed the sudden change in his behavior something was really wrong.

"What's wrong?"

"He….Naruto….?"

The former sergeant turned to the whiskered blond who only turned his head away. He knew his facial features have changed since he could feel the power of the nine tails fox influencing him, his chakra swirling inside of him. The blond might have lost his ability to mold chakra but it didn't meant that the chakra of the Kyuubi was gone, it will be too good to be true if it did. The Uzumaki controlled his anger knowing that the fox will take over if he gives too much to his anger, and yet he could hear the fox chuckling from behind his cage. The blond has taken a couple of deep breaths to help him calm down, slowly his anger was fading.

"You okay?" asked a worried Lightning.

"Yeah I'm okay, a hundred percent okay" he turned to the nervous teen.

"Hope I'm sorry about before, it wasn't right for me to snap at you like that."

The silver haired teen saw that his face was back to normal and has calmed down maybe he was just seeing things" it's okay I shouldn't have gotten angry at you in the first place, I'm sorry for my behavior."

The pink haired soldier nodded feeling relief that they have settled their difference" now that things are settled with you two, time to move."

"Thanks for the five minute break Light I really need it" said the teen.

"More like a thirty minute break" Naruto gave a smirk because it was longer than that.

"I'll take the lead from here, Naruto watch the rear with Hope."

He chuckle at her comment making the older Farron to frown at him.

"Something funny….?"

"No it's just that…the way you said to watch the rear it almost sounded that we should watch your-"

The blond jinchurikki turned pale seeing that Lightning has cracked one knuckle ready to pound him she already knew what he was going to say, that was the reason why she was giving him such a dangerous expression.

"Finish that sentence Uzumaki I dare you."

"Never mind!" he quickly replied feeling like crapping his pants.

The entire time Hope felt like laughing because the blond was right, it almost sounded like they should keep close watch on the former sergeant's behind. Forgetting that such comment was said by the whiskered blond Lightning took the lead, watching the front while the boys took care of the rear. She growled mentally not trying to blush remembering his words, she imagined that the two boys were really watching her rear instead of the rear in general. She felt like hitting them both and she ended up giving a quick glance behind her, both Naruto and Hope were keeping their eyes around not literally at one place, or body part in particular. She calmed down and resumed their journey spotting a branch leading down, there was no other place in particular so she followed her instincts and jumped down from the branch.

Luckily for the l'Cie trio there weren't any enemies waiting for them in the floor, or electric security fences. The former GC sergeant saw another tree branch that was eligible to use it as a ladder to take them to the floor above them. They followed the pink haired soldier through another corridor with the lights in the center deactivating as they passed by, ahead their road was blocked by a tree branch. Naruto was about to do the honors but reconsidered his decision, due that she was taking the lead the honors will be hers. The pink haired soldier unsheathed her Blazefire saber and with one soft movement cut down the branch without giving much effort, or put enough strength in it. Hope had his eyes on the older Farron's weapon, and for some reason it crossed his mind to have one.

The gun blade as he has seen Lightning and Naruto used them in battle since they became l'Cie was very effective against enemy monsters. The blade of the saber was truly sharp anyone could tell with the way it was able to cut down enemies almost to shred, truly a weapon for slicing and dicing. It was even more helpful the fact it could change into a gun giving the edge of the weapon, in both short and long range combat. No doubt having one was very tempting for the silver haired teen the only thing is learning how to use one. It won't be a problem if one of the two soldiers with him will teach him he might master using one for sure. Having a gun blade for a weapon was more effective than his boomerang he'll be able to take down Snow faster.

"Could I use one of those?"

"Huh you want to use a gun blade?" Naruto was taken back but after listening to his reason for joining them in their mission, it was no wonder for the blond jinchurikki.

"Bit too heavy for you" the pink haired soldier sheathed her gun blade.

"Okay…."

The Uzumaki nodded in agreement he remembered how hard it was to learn how to use a gun blade. Besides mastering how rapidly one could use it when it came to changing it from gun mode to saber mode, one hard part of the training was getting used to its weight. Gun blades in general were heavy making it difficult for one the user to use one, his Flashflare saber was heavy and it took him a long time to get used to the weight. Lightning's Blazefire saber was probably the only gun blade which it was the lightest in weight, but still a teenager like Hope who had absolutely no military training or experience whatsoever he wouldn't be able to use it much less bring its potential.

Hope took the knife once more unsheathing the blade at least he had a weapon that could be more effective than his boomerang. But it wasn't going to be enough to stop someone like Snow, after all the NORA leader was an l'Cie too he will get stronger too just like the trio. A knife was only good in close range combat and he was no soldier, he didn't know any close combat. The blond was also taller, bigger and stronger than him he was in a big disadvantage. He will have to rely on his l'Cie abilities to get stronger in his magic he might have a chance that's why fighting with Naruto and Lightning will help him develop his strength. The silver haired teen stood in thought holding the knife given by the pink haired soldier as a token to keep him safe, to keep safe from Snow.

As Lightning stood staring at the teen she suddenly got a flashback, a painful memory. Something she wished that would have happened in a nightmare than in reality, her birthday the consequences it brought because of her stubborn attitude. Serah's words before telling her that she was branded as a Pulse l'Cie, she was being honest about everything and yet she didn't believed her. The pain she felt which it was still lingering in her pure guilt, how she hated herself after finding out the truth the hard way. The irony in all of this that the only person who believed her was the same person she disliked and hated, Snow her sister's fiancée. She was her family and didn't believed her, she didn't trusted her it showed that the NORA leader trusted her more than her older sister it also showed how much he loves her.

Naruto was staring at both l'Cie with mixed emotions, both of them were emotionally hurt with everything that has happened. Hope lost his mother in the Purge and he was blaming Snow, out on a journey to revenge on the NORA leader. Lightning lost her younger sister to the Pulse Fal'Cie being branded before becoming crystal, and now she was an l'Cie too probably to follow the same fate. As for himself there was nothing bothering him, well there were a couple of things in his mind but he was always good in hiding things from others. His cerulean eyes softened reminding himself that he was keeping a big secret to the pink haired soldier, his place of origin and the dark secret sealed inside of him. Images came to him from the past before this entire mess took place, just a few days ago at the fireworks festival.

Day 11

(Location: the seaside city of Bodhum Lebreau's bar inner rim Cocoon)

After they were done with celebrating Sasuke's return to the city, the group has taken their leave most of them. Snow and Serah left wanting to spend some time alone and members of NORA left to enjoy the rest of the festival, Lebreau went back to work at her bar attending the many customers waiting for service. Naruto and Sasuke were the only ones left they have left the bar and we're currently not too far from the place, passing through the crowd as the fireworks were still filling the night sky. The two soldiers were happy that they were given the rest of the evening off they can finally have some time to take a break from the military work. It was nice to relax every now and then and try to live the life of a civilian, for tonight they were just regular people enjoying the festival.

"So Sasuke how is it working for PSICOM, doing lots of tough missions….?"

The Uchiha frowned remembering that he was doing the mission of babysitting Dajh, what kind of higher rank military official like himself gets to have such a worthless mission like taking care of a six year old kid.

"What's wrong?"

"Hn…."

"You okay?"

"I'm fine, yeah done some missions for the division. It has gotten boring lately."

The blond jinchurikki grinned" I guess even PSICOM will have their boring days too."

"You have no idea" the Uchiha reminded himself again of the foolish mission.

"Well I had my share of exciting missions with the Corps, and some boring missions too. But you the paperwork it's the worst it's so boring, so many papers to fill it gets annoying after a while."

"I know about that, I've done paperwork it's really annoying."

"Point is I'll do anything that isn't the paperwork."

"Hn…."

The blond jinchurikki smiled at the fireworks" you know I think this is the only year in the fireworks festival that I get the night off. Past years I was always busy doing patrol shifts with Lightning that I never got the chance to enjoy the fireworks, I don't know if it's true that if you make a wish on them it might come true someday. It's a good thing I already made my wish."

"What did you wished for to have a life time supply of ramen?"

The Uzumaki was about to answer before he paused, giving a silly grin" yeah that was going to be my first guess but no, I wished for something else even if I miss ramen so much I can't believe I haven't eaten any of it in seven years."

"You didn't wish for ramen miracles do happen I guess."

"Your sarcasm is not as good as Lightning's, she can be sarcastic funny you're just not funny at all."

"Like I'm expecting to be funny I don't care any of that. Whatever you wished for must be really something."

"Like I'm telling you Sasuke it's kind of personal."

"Forget about that keep the wish to yourself."

"I think I will."

"Have you told Lightning yet?" he asked the question from out of nowhere.

Naruto has suddenly blushed deep the Uchiha was probably talking about if he has confessed his feeling to the pink haired soldier. The thought of telling her how he feels was too much for him, it made him so nervous. And although he has thought about it there was no way he could go through with that yet, he still wasn't ready. The older Farron would probably turn him down that she didn't felt that way for him, rejection from the woman he held dear in his heart was the last thing he wanted.

Sasuke just shook his head halting his train of thought" the other thing…."

The Uzumaki's blushing ended after hearing that, now he knew it wasn't about a confession to Lightning but the secrets he was keeping from her. A traveler from another world a shinobi from Konoha in the fire country and the container of the nine tails demon fox, the same monster that almost destroy his village. He hasn't said a single word to anyone from Cocoon since he got here with the Uchiha this secret was enough to destroy his happy living in this world. Lightning's reaction of finding out the truth about him scared him more than finding out of his feelings. The whiskered blond erased the image not wanting that to happen he didn't wanted to think about it anymore, she will hate him forever and his worst fear that she might end their friendship for good.

"You haven't told her?" the Uchiha could tell just looking at his face.

The blond jinchurikki gave a sigh" I haven't and it will be best if things stay like this."

"You're not planning in telling her anything?"

"I don't I can't okay. I can't tell her it's too much for her to know all of that."

"So you think it will be better if she never finds out the truth, that's one way of acting like a wussy."

"Get off my back Sasuke I can't tell her because it's too painful to think about those things."

"Stop being so melodramatic and just tell her already."

The whiskered blond slammed his hands on the wall of the bar entrance" I told you I can't, you think it's easy to tell her?"

"Is it that hard for you?" the raven haired raised an eyebrow.

"Yes what was your first clue?"

"You're afraid she might not believe you?"

"Not that she might not believe me she's…how do you think she will take it when I tell her. Guess what Lightning I've come from another world in another dimension where I'm a shinobi, yeah I already have fighting experience before joining the military academy. Also I have an evil demon fox sealed in me that might try to take over me leading for me to end up killing you and everyone else, I could be the one to bring the destruction to Cocoon."

"Hn…whatever I tried reasoning with you."

"What about you, think you can tell someone precious to you about the hell you went through?"

"Why would I tell someone about my past?" it didn't made sense to Sasuke , Naruto's question didn't faze him like there's someone like that to him.

"Just as I thought you don't know what I'm talking about so you can't understand how I feel."

"You're right but don't you think Lightning deserves to know the truth?"

"….."

"You guys have gotten close, too close and doesn't friends and family talk about their problems when they have to?"

"I don't have a problem" the Uzumaki ignored the question.

"You do you can't tell her because you're too scared that she will hate you. But have you thought that she might not believe you at all?"

"Why wouldn't she believe me?"

"Our story is crazy enough as it is."

"You may be right but I still can't do it. I need time if I want to tell her."

"You changed your mind looks like you're not a wussy after all" the Uchiha gave a grin.

"But not yet it's too soon for her to know."

"It's been seven years…."

"I know but when I'm ready I'll tell her everything. It'll see it through to the end whatever happens."

"What would I expect from you, you are scare of Lightning when she gets angry?"

"Hey she is scary when she's angry you haven't experienced her wrath like I had women are scary you know. "

"Hn…."

Someday you might meet a woman who will scare the living crap out of you, then you can finally tell me all about it and I will tell you "welcome to the club bud"".

"If that ever happens I highly doubt it would."

"Why am I thinking about that now?"

"Serah I should have listened to you."

"What?" blinked Hope along with the whiskered blond both have heard Lightning talking to herself?

The pink haired soldier noticed they heard her thinking out loud she shrugged it aside" it's nothing, time to move."

"Light….?" Naruto started he could tell she was hurting due that she was thinking about her sister again.

"Watch the rear you two, in general" she gave a small glare to the Uzumaki reminding him that it wasn't watching her rear.

"We weren't thinking of doing that, I mean I would never stare at her butt unless if I have a death wish" Hope whispered to the blond the silver haired teen wasn't stupid to do something so foolish, and it will likely get him killed.

"I know but she was giving me the warning not you" the blond jinchurikki gave a silly grin.

(Scene change)

Parlos stood staring at the surveillance cameras with a lot interest in his eyes. The lieutenant was really entertained by the show the l'Cie trio has been giving him the way they fought the bioweapons were truly remarkable. Once again they have engaged more of the creatures in combat, he grinned watching them killed more silver lobo and crawlers. More bioweapons like the Vespid were killed by their strong magic it amazed him when he witnessed how they killed creatures like the Feral Behemoth. The middle aged man watched them walking the dark corridor of the floor, the only thing that made him unhappy is that he ran out of popcorn and he drank his soda. It felt tempting to call for more refreshments so he could enjoy the show.

"Truly impressive indeed I never expected that they will made it this far. At this rate they might reach the exit of the facility sooner than I thought, too bad they won't reach it."

His communicator was activated receiving an incoming transmission" this is Parlos?"

*Sir it's an emergency!*

"Hmm….are you and your squad keeping a close watch on project 00256 like I ordered you?"

"We did sir, but we're having a big problem as I speak*

"What kind of problem?" he glared he hated when his men screw up.

*It spotted us sir, it's attacking us our weapons aren't harming it!*

The lieutenant gave a sigh" I also told you to keep your distance from it. Keep close watch on the weapon but also keep your distance from it, why can't you listen to instructions correctly?"

*Sir it's charging at us damn it why won't it die?*

Parlos growled hearing the sound of rifle fire" hey don't kill it I want it alive. That is my welcoming gift to our l'Cie guests understood soldier?"

*Ah my arm it cut off my arm!*

"Stop whining and put someone else who can take orders properly."

*Ah Eden help me it's going to eat me!"

"Hey can you read me?" he sighed" of course you won't hear me if you're dead."

"Is there anybody out there?"

He didn't hear any gun fire and no reply came from the squad" dead silence means they're all dead, oh well you gain some you lose some. They died serving the Sanctum not following my orders like I said was their undoing."

He gave an evil grin" there's nothing to worry about project 00256 is all right, better to lose some men than my secret weapon."

(Scene change)

(Location: the Lindblum training room above the skies of Cocoon)

Sasuke has fallen on one his entire body covered in sweat, he was panting hard. Another session of training with Fang, which it was harder than the previous one this time he was able to survived. The Uchiha has grinned even if the training would be considered torture, or hell he was starting to get the hang of it. His onyx eyes were on the Pulsian warrior in front of him Fang looked just like him panting and her body covered in sweat, only difference she wasn't one knee giving the indication that she wasn't that exhausted. It impressed him that she could still after the sparring match they just had, what would expect from someone like her. However he wasn't done and he wasn't planning in losing to her, she won the first round but the second round was going to be his victory.

Fang removed some of the sweat from her forehead grinning at the raven haired man. Please that he has lasted longer in this round of their sparring match, it wasn't over she could still go on stamina is one of her abilities. This time the Uchiha has really put up a good fight, which still made her question herself that he claims he's weak after he told her that he lost strength and other abilities when he was branded. He was strong now and he was going to even stronger when they face the Sanctum, so why he continues to call himself weak. In her eyes he was strong if he was way stronger before becoming an l'Cie then she didn't want to fight him, he was probably stronger than her and the other l'Cie. She readied her lance in case they were going to continue their match she has learned that Sasuke can be quite arrogant in the heat of battle.

"Well Sasuke dear shall we call this round a quit?"

The former PSICOM soldier just grinned charging at female warrior at great speed. He cast fire followed by thunder he didn't wasted time launching Masamune into a powerful swing. Another grin was formed on his lips even if those attacks made contact Fang was still standing and feeling well, she was in a defensive stance a crystal colored shield was surrounding her body. It was exactly how he expected she was going to block all those attacks, due that it was impossible to dodge them all no matter how fast one can be. He took the chance that she was still using the defensive technique and charged right in from behind, it was hard for him to tell the grin she made because of his speed. The Pulsian warrior has blocked his attack and has countered at the same time with their weapons, causing a strong shockwave to be formed. Both grinned as their eyes met this round didn't seemed to have a winner.

"This looks like a draw mate."

"For now…."

"Not bad, if you keep this up you might learn some new spells or techniques."

"Anything that will make me strong is fine with me."

"Then this match is settled"

"Until the next time…."

The two l'Cie finally left the room taking a big break after the matches they had. Yet Sasuke was in thought he didn't seemed to be pleased with the results, he wanted more. Feeling like demanding quick results to get strong how he wanted to be in the same level of strength he used to be before all of this happened. If Anima was alive he would have kill the Fal'Cie with no remorse, he has cursed the Pulse being for branding him and removing his ability to mold chakra. No time to be thinking about things that will put him in a bad mood he thought what to do next, some sleep will help him and a shower since he was covered in sweat.

"Well I'm off to take a nice nap, but not before taking a warm shower. I just love the showers they have on the ship."

"Same here…."

The Pulsian beauty turned to him with a sly grin" why don't we have a shower together….?"

"What?" he was bewildered with wide eyes and caught by surprise, his cheeks were reddened a bit.

She laughed out loud" just kidding mate you should have seen the look of your face it was priceless."

"Women" he gave a sigh.

Fang stopped her laughing and glared at him" what did you just called me?"

"Is there a problem?" he raised an eyebrow she was a woman after all.

The female warrior only smiled before she moved to him at the same speed he used to attack her. She grabbed both of his arms and she had him on the ground in another one of her submission holds, however this one was a bit different from previous. She has put her leg on his back putting pressure on said area she added more pressure using his arms, making the Uchiha cringed in pain. This was probably the most painful hold she has had him so far, the pain was horrible to think she caught him off guard it really surprised him.

"Damn it….is she trying to break my back?"

"Fang….let go of me."

"Listen up. Just because we're friends it doesn't mean you can insult me, never call me woman again it sounds sexist you will call me by my name are we clear mate?"

"I….damn it, it hurts let me go."

"Are we clear?" she didn't like to repeat herself.

"Yes…."

The Pulse l'Cie let him go as the former PSICOM soldier was relief that the pain stopped. He was still feeling the agonizing pain in his arms and his back he looked at her feeling like sending her with one of his killer glares. But it never happened with the expression she was giving him it made him changed his mind to make a glare, her green eyes were cold and her expression was truly serious it was terrifying. The Uchiha remained quiet and tried not to feel any fear he saw her getting closer to him, her face inches from his. Fang has put two fingers on his lips keeping her scary face and Sasuke was doing everything in his power not to turn pale.

"And that's lesson number three dear, never make me angry. I can't guarantee what will happen to you if you ever do."

"I'll keep that in mind" he quickly replied.

"Good" she put back her bright smile like nothing has ever happened.

"Well I'm off I will give it my best next time and so will you!"

She finally left while the raven haired man sighed in relief the fear left his body" she's a psycho bitch."

"There you are Sasuke!"

The Uchiha turned the other way to see Rydgea heading his way, he felt annoyed a bit. He has to show up now that he was ready to take a bath and a nap" what….?"

"Always cheery and with a smile on your face" the Cavalry soldier grinned at his sarcastic comment.

"What is it?" he got annoyed.

"Our guest is starting to get inpatient he wants to be taken from his room."

The former PSICOM soldier sighed he knew he was talking about Snow he was still imprisoned because of his inappropriate behavior when he was introduced to Raines.

"So what why are you asking me….?"

"I was thinking that you should probably fill him in on our intentions."

"Isn't that Raines's job?"

"The general is busy you know he's risking his neck for keeping you and Fang on the ship."

"What about you?"

"Hey I'm just a soldier I'm not allowed to be talking about classified information. It doesn't apply to you because you're our spy."

"Hn…."

He started walking away.

"Wait aren't you going to tell him?"

"Not yet…."

Rydgea chuckle" so you're going to let him stay at the cell for the rest of the day?"

Without looking at the soldier Sasuke gave a grin" heh why not….?"

(Scene change)

(Location: Bioweapon maintenance the Gapra Whitewood)

The l'Cie has finally made it to the next floor of the facility, hoping that this was the last floor to get to the exit. Too many battles they've fought and monsters they killed to get this far, not to mention that some of them we're getting a little tired namely Hope. Yet the silver haired teen wasn't showing and it wasn't that he was trying to hide it, he was showing his strength and determination. They were getting stronger as they fought the many battles it was obvious that the teen will change just like the power of his magic. After taking out a group of silver lobo they were met by a very unpleasant sight, they stopped seeing it at the center of one of the circular floor. The group stood in deep thought Naruto and Lightning didn't react as former soldiers they were used to the sight and the smell too.

However it was a complete different for Hope he was shocked gazing at a couple of dead bodies from soldiers, they were obviously members of the Woodlands Observation Battalion. His green eyes widened seeing the sight of blood everywhere on their bodies, he stood frozen in fear. It was the first time he was seeing such a gore scene even if he has already killed monsters and members of PSICOM, this was different. The smell of blood has hit his nose thrills making him feel dizzy it was anyone's guess if he might throw up, he remained strong remembering that he needed to be for his companions for himself if he was planning to have his revenge on Snow. The teen felt a hand on his shoulder which it was Naruto, the whiskered blond was trying to help him get through the sight.

"What happened here?"

"Bad luck, they came looking for us and found something worse" replied Lightning.

"They seemed to have been killed just recently, the blood is still fresh" said the Uzumaki.

"We can't just leave them like this!" the teen was about to get closer to the bodies.

"Don't touch anything!" the pink haired soldier shoved him aside as he fall to the ground.

"Control your emotions if you want to survive, you forget about your sympathy."

The blond jinchurikki sighed" she's right Hope, there's nothing we can do for these guys they're already dead."

The former sergeant walked back and forth" how can I explain?"

She knelt in front of him" think of it like a strategy focus on your ultimate goal and shut out everything else. Still your mind move on instinct…."

"Okay that is not a good idea" Naruto already knew what the teen's ultimate goal was.

"Let doubt take over, and despair will cripple you."

Hope got back up his mind made up looking determined more than ever" strategy good I'll take anything to get me through this."

Lightning nodded in agreement maybe with this he will finally focus on their mission, even if he was doing a very good job as a team player.

Naruto stood quiet he knew the pink haired soldier was doing the right thing by giving the teen this kind of support, it was too late to stop him revenge was on his mind.

"I'll call it Operation Nora…."

"NORA?" the older Farron hide her shock.

"My mother's name…."

"Nora is Hope's mother's name, just like the names of Snow's gang what irony" thought the whiskered blond.

"Your revenge?" the pink haired soldier finally realized that she has made a mistake.

"Yes…don't tell me I know getting revenge on him won't bring her back I know that!" he shouted staring at Naruto.

"But saying sorry won't cut it."

"You already know that and yet you still want to go through with it why?" asked the blond.

Hope ignored his question he starting walking out.

"Snow didn't kill your mother the Sanctum did" Lightning was now desperate to try and fix her mistake.

"That's right Hope the Sanctum is responsible for the Purge and the death of all those innocent people, including your mother" Naruto followed her finally realizing that she was trying to do the right thing.

"Whose side are you on?"

"The side of truth…."

"I don't think Snow is secretly working for the Sanctum and he's the actual mastermind behind the Purge not the primarch or Eden. And that's why he ordered everyone from Bodhum you and your mother too, even if he went there to save everyone including his fiancée. Yeah if you haven't notice I'm being sarcastic" said the blond jinchurikki.

"You say that because you don't understand me at all, you don't know how I feel."

Naruto's eyes widened in realization he lowered his head.

"You would never understand me."

"Sasuke…." He realized the similarities between the two.

"The Sanctum is the enemy just focus on them, there's no need to drag Snow too" replied the former sergeant.

The silver haired teen ignored her taking the survival knife sheathing the blade" fine I'll fight the Sanctum with you guys. I'll learn to survive."

Hope left while Lightning stood in thought how she felt like punching herself for being so stupid, how she could have made such a mistake. She felt Naruto's hand on her shoulder but it wasn't helping in making her feel better, it seems the only thing she was good at is making mistake after another. The pink haired soldier left following the teen while the Uzumaki gave a sigh, he shortly followed them. Neither of them realized that next to one of the dead bodies was a communicator and it was activated, someone has listened to their conversation.

Walking through the floor the trio encountered a couple of members of the Observation Battalion, they were easy to beat they were no different from the rookie soldiers of PSICOM. For some reason as they headed further into the corridor they weren't any more soldiers, it became quiet and silent. It would only mean that it will be taken as a bad sign but neither of them we're aware, they were still in deep thought for what just recently happened. Lightning didn't felt like saying a single word after realizing that she has pushed Hope to only focus on his revenge as an ultimate goal, now he was fighting both Snow and the Sanctum. And to think that she said the irony that she might fight the NORA leader since she was planning in fighting the Sanctum as a way to fulfill her own revenge, for Serah.

Hope was still thinking what the two former soldiers told him, especially what Naruto said to him. No he wasn't listening to any of them he had two enemies to defeat, the Sanctum and Snow. He made his choice to see this through the end, revenge was his path his goal. Right now getting strong was his only focus following the two former soldiers was the best way, the sooner they leave the bioweapons facility the better. Once he gets strong enough he will face the NORA leader and this time he will see how he feels, he was only thinking of the tall blond.

Naruto tried to keep with the silver haired teen but he couldn't, he was only staring at him. As he gazed at him there wasn't an image of an innocent fourteen year old, it wasn't Hope anymore. He felt like he was staring at a thirteen year old Sasuke, the past Uchiha who was an avenger and revenge was the only thing that matter in his life. Killing his older brother and rebuild his clan, but mainly it was the hatred he held for so long for the older Uchiha Itachi. Hope was following his best friend's footsteps, he was walking the path of the avenger that was enough to worry him. After what he went through to get the Uchiha back and it took leaving to another world by an unfortunate accident to make him forget of that goal, now someone else has taken that goal as his only purpose.

"I will severe these bonds…."

"I'm an avenger…."

"My dream…is more of an ambition that I will make a reality. To restore my clan and kill a certain man."

"You're too late Naruto…."

"I will go to Orochimaru."

"Naruto…you've become my best friend."

"First Sasuke now Hope…."

"Snow he tricked her to fight."

"My mother was killed because of him…."

Snow dragged us all into this mess you, me, Naruto your sister Serah

"He needs to pay for it."

"I'm not ready yet but I will soon."

"It's his fault she's gone!"

"I'll call it Operation Nora."

"I won't let this happen again, Hope you're not going to lose yourself in revenge. It was hard for me to see Sasuke go through all that hell I won't let the same thing happen to you."

The blond jinchurikki took a deep breath smiling" Hope, how about if we forget about the whole topic of revenge for now, we'll talk about something else?"

The silver haired teen smiled he nodded" I like that…."

Lightning who was in the lead took a glance at the two at least the atmosphere changed a little. It wasn't awkward with the hint of anger, it was normal she was glad Naruto was able to change the mood. She didn't like it when there was tension it was too stressful to deal with, she always like it when the Uzumaki will find a way to light the mood like making a funny comment, or a stupid one that she will probably hit him for it. At least they won't be hearing about revenge on Snow or reminding herself of another mistake she made.

The whiskered blond chuckle" so what do you think you're Eidolon will look like?"

Hope blinked in surprise" my….my Eidolon how can you be so sure that we'll have Eidolons?"

"We're l'Cie so there's a big possibility that we might summon them too. I mean Light already has her Eidolon Momin."

"It's Odin" corrected the former sergeant.

"I guess that could be true, I really don't know if I'll be able to summon an Eidolon. I don't even have a clue what it will look like" replied the teen.

"Same for me too but I'm hoping that mine will be cool looking and it's going to transform into something awesome!"

"Transform?" asked the teen.

"You remember Momin changing into a horse how cool was that?"

"Odin" corrected Lightning again with a sweat dropped.

"Yeah I remember that and the way Light was holding those two long blades while mounting the horse."

"Oh please" the older Farron crossed her arms feeling her cheeks reddening because she was feeling embarrassed for the praise she was receiving.

"Eidolons can transform into something after all."

Naruto smiled" that's why my Eidolon will change into something cool you'll see!"

"Believe it" Hope mimicked him.

"Hey that's my line!"

The silver haired teen laughed while the pink haired soldier rolled her eyes hiding her smile. Naruto could act like a little kid sometimes and yet it was great to see him getting along with Hope like they were close friends, or maybe like they were family. The Uzumaki was the kind of person who will become friends quickly with anyone he meets there were times that she has wished that she could be like him. Her focused went back to the front spotting a wide lift in the distance she had a feeling that they were close to the exit of the facility only one way to find out. Little that the trio didn't know that they were about to enter into great danger.

(Scene change)

Parlos has left his seat from the security control panel watching the l'Cie trio heading to the lift that will lead them to the exit. He grinned still impressed that they have made it so far into the bioweapon facility, he was holding his communicator. After listening to their conversation he has called for reinforcements, as well as a transmission from one of his men that his secret weapon was near the l'Cie's location. He loaded his handgun just in case he was ready to leave the room. There was no need for him to stay any longer since he has done his job well he gave a soft chuckle watching the screen where the trio was shown.

"And so the l'Cie rats reached the end of my maze well done congratulations. I should thank you l'Cie for making my job fun and entertaining, but I'm afraid that the ride ends here. You won't be leaving this facility, dead or alive that will be up to you."

To be continued

I know long chapter but it's finally here. I really had a blast developing Sasuke/Fang in this chapter especially when she was owning him badly, I'm not a Sasuke hater and I'm sorry but Fang doesn't look like the kind of woman who would get dominated by a man. I really like giving Sasuke a woman who won't take his crap. As always thank you for everyone who is reviewing and putting the story on fav alerts and story alerts. Remember to leave your review and I will see you all next time farewell.

Next time: Legacy