Legend of the Defiers

by Gravenimage

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

22. The Capital of Commerce

Disclaimer: if you didn't know this, then you're probably sleeping in a rock I don't own Naruto and FFXIII it is the rightful property of Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

(Bold and parenthesis Eidolons speaking or Kyuubi)

**Communications through phones and radio

---

Chapter 22 The Capital of Commerce

(Location: underground passage way below of the seaside city of Bodhum inner rim Cocoon)

The underground sewerage was dark the only sound heard was the sound of the water dripping from the nearby pipes. Along the labyrinth passage stood a large group of people they were all of civilians from men, women and children. Their clothes were dirty, they all seemed like they haven't taken a shower for who knows since when. Most of them looked sleepy while there was a large portion of the people that were hungry, not eating for a while. For them to be underground of a city it was obvious that they were very much hiding from someone, like the military. They weren't quite alone as they were currently being watched by some young protectors.

Lebreau and Maqui from team NORA were the ones taking the responsibility of watching over of the survivors of the Purge, the teens were in deep thought it was anyone's guess what they were thinking. It has been almost a week since the team made it out alive from the Hanging Edge, after they witnessed the destruction of the sight as everything was turned into crystal along with the Pulse Vestige. If they were still people in the area either they were dead or turned into Cie'th, they were thankful to be escape with their lives feeling lucky. They were also lucky that their journey to Bodhum was an easy without encountering any trouble from the military.

They managed to enter the underground sewerage system because they knew of a shortcut from the city to get here. They've been like this for two days hiding underground like rats from the military, Gadot and Yuj we're in the surface gathering food and checking for soldiersor any military personal, they hoped they were successful in bringing more food because they were running low on food supplies. Lots of thoughts ran through their head including the safety of their leader Snow, remembering the tall blond headed to the Vestige. They witnessed it when it turned to crystal along with the rest of the Hanging Edge they didn't lose hope that he was still alive and well.

They heard footsteps echoing through the passage, it felt like they were heading their way. The two NORA members readied their rifles trying to keep calm, even if they couldn't help that the military may have found them. Most of the people were already panicking as the footsteps were getting closer Lebreau and Maqui we're ready to shoot as soon as they see their faces. Even if it was dark they could still see from the small light emitting from the crack above, when the footstep stopped they aimed their weapons. Both felt relief when they saw Gadot and Yuj who got back from checking the city, the NORA members we're holding some food like fruits, vegetables and bread.

"You guys startle us" said Maqui.

"How things up there….?" asked Lebreau.

"In one word weird" replied Yuj sharing the food with the people.

"Bodhum is populated, not too many people around. The weird part is that we didn't saw one single soldier not one squad patrolling the streets. No PSICOM, no Guardian Corps nothing" said Gadot.

"It's like there's no military in the city" added Yuj.

"Hey that's good that means we don't have to be hiding down here. We can bring the people to the surface no military no security right?" said Maqui.

"That seems to be it" Gadot agreed with the young member.

"I don't know if we should bring them to the city, maybe it's too soon" Lebreau gave a sigh.

"I hear you but we can't stay here much longer. The people here are not going to wait for too long, some of them needs medical attention" said the member with the Mohawk.

"I said we should give it a shot and bring them to the surface, we can't keep up living down here like we're rats" replied Yuj.

"Should we take that risk?" asked the female member.

For a moment the NORA gang turned to gaze at all the people present. They were all tired and worn out, others sharing the food they brought starving, some of the children were sobbing and among them were people who were wounded during the journey to get here. The answer to her question was quite easy to figure out, they couldn't stay here everyone wanted to get back to civilization and go to the surface. Lebreau was still feeling uncertain about this, after everything they went through to escape with their lives they might make a decision that might endanger the civilian's lives. Going to the city could be a mistake that will cost them their lives and everyone else's.

"I think we should" said Yuj.

"I still say we should think this through."

"I wish Snow were here, he'll know what to do" replied Maqui.

"The boss will come back we don't know when, but for now we have to make the decisions ourselves" said Gadot.

"We'll let you decide didn't Snow put you second in charge Gadot?" asked Yuj.

"All right I'm sorry Lebreau but we're not saying here any longer we'll go to the city. We'll stay with the same strategy as before you and Maqui watch over the civs while I and Yuj watch out for any hostiles."

"All right" the female member gave a sigh that she wasn't going to win this argument.

"Everyone follow us, form a line and please stay quiet" said Gadot.

"So this is where you guys have been."

"What who's there?" Yuj pointed his rifle to the voices he heard not too far from him.

The rest of the NORA gang pointed their weapons hearing the voice while the civilians were starting to panic. They knew they weren't alone anymore they have been found, their first guess was the military. Soon people emerged into the small light they had in the passage the NORA gang could finally see their faces, it was a young man and women in their early twenties and they looked familiar to them. They were wearing regular civilian clothes so their first guess that they weren't with the military, neither of the two were holding weapons so they were unarmed.

"Who are you people and how do you get here?" asked Yuj.

"We saw you guys entering the passage" replied the young man.

"So you've been following us?" asked Gadot.

"If you guys want to go to the city be our guess, all military personal from Bodhum has been mobilized to Palumpolum so there's no security here."

"What?" Lebreau was shocked.

"You sure….?" Maqui followed.

"How can you be so sure?" said Yuj.

"Wait a minute I recognized you two, I knew I've seen your faces before" Gadot said.

"You know them?" Lebreau said.

"Yeah these two they're friends with Naruto, Lightning and Sasuke. You're Aidan and Janil you guys are with the Guardian Corps."

Janil and Aidan looked at each other before turning to them.

"So you recognized us at least we know you guys are from NORA. But you're wrong in your last statement, we were Guardian Corps" said Aidan.

"Were….?" Yuj replied.

"You guys are not with the Corps?" Gadot was now feeling confused.

"Not anymore, we quit after lieutenant Amodar resigned from the GC it shortly happened after the Purge and also…."

Aidan turned to Janil who has been quiet the entire time he knew why she was like this. She took the news of Amodar's resignation from the Guardian Corps bad, the lieutenant was a good role model to GC personal. However the news of Lightning's resignation she took it worst the pink haired soldier was her role model, she wanted to become just like her and someday gain the rank of sergeant. Although the older Farron never singed the resignation forms she was officially out of the Corps when she quit and volunteered to get purged, the same thing with Naruto. The other news she didn't took well is that she and the Uzumaki have become Pulse l'Cie and they were officially enemies of Cocoon.

And ever since then she has been very quiet, becoming less talkative. Aidan didn't blame her after hearing two people she looked up to have quit she was devastated, eventually she quit from the GC too. He followed her in quitting because he believed that the Corps has lost its morale the moment Amodar resigned, he didn't care anymore about lending his military services to the Sanctum. He decided to stay by Janil's side and help her get through this, as his friend he felt like it was his responsibility because Naruto and Lightning weren't here.

"Okay I get it you guys are not with the military anymore, so why are you guys here?" asked Gadot.

"We came to tell you about Bodhum not having security, a lot of things have happened since the Purge operation. I will take the civilians here are survivors right?"

"They are…." replied Lebreau.

"Then please let us help you guys get them to the surface, it's the least we can do I know lieutenant Amodar wanted to help too?"

"He's not a lieutenant anymore and we're no longer soldiers" Janil said in a soft tone.

Aidan gave a sigh at her comment looking at the NORA gang" what do you guys say?"

"Hey I don't have a problem the more help the merrier" Yuj said.

"Me too" followed Maqui.

"I guess that's okay, we really need help with the people" Lebreau said.

"All right you guys are welcome to help us" Gadot nodded.

"Thanks…."

They started moving out following Gadot's last orders the survivors were gathered and they have formed a line. Lebreau and Maqui watched over them with Gadot and Yuj in the lead and behind them were Aidan and Janil following close by. Good thing for NORA that they were already familiar with the sewerage system in Bodhum and they knew where to go to reach the surface. It will take them a couple of minutes to reach the exit out of the passage luckily they will have a chance to live in peace once they arrive at the city. Aidan took a glance at Janil and the young woman was still the same as always, quiet and in deep thought but she didn't argue with helping with the Purge survivors. At least she still had her will to help others, she was still herself in that the very least.

"So Aidan do you know why the Sanctum is mobilizing the military to Palumpolum?" asked Gadot.

"I don't know much about that since me and Janil resigned shortly after the Purge, but I'll tell you something. It must be something big if they have contacted so many troops to gather in just one city, something's happening there."

"Maybe there having problems with monsters?" Maqui said.

"I kind of doubt it will just be monsters" Yuj replied.

"We do know that PSICOM is keeping secrets from the public we just don't know what it is" said Aidan.

"Like the Pulse Fal'Cie at the Vestige?" Lebreau said.

"Like that, who would have thought something like that would be in our noses all this time?"

"I just hope that these people will be safe staying in the city" said Gadot.

"The Purge is done the only thing the military is focusing is Palumpolum, they don't care about these civilians anymore. I'm sure they'll be safe now."

"Any reason why the lieutenant quit?" asked Yuj.

"My guess is that he probably knew of the truth behind the Purge and he feels particularly responsible for the deaths of all those people. The few years I've known lieutenant Amodar he was always looking out for everyone, his men and the citizens. Not doing a thing but let PSICOM killed so many civilians because a Pulse Fal'Cie was next to us, he probably feels guilty and he could be blaming himself for what happened at the Purge" said Aidan.

"After hearing that I kind of feel sorry for the guy" said Lebreau.

"I guess not everyone in the military is a total scum" said Gadot.

The group finally reached the exit that lead to the surface. One by one they let the civilians climb the stair way hoping that everything will be all right from now on and that these people will be able to resume their normal lives. But the damage has been done and after experiencing the horror that is the Purge none of them will be the same, they won't live a peaceful life anymore. These survivors have lost important people, their family, and their friends among other people these will continue to live in their memories forever. After everyone has climbed the NORA gang followed, before Aidan and Janil were the only ones left, he was staring at her still quiet as ever.

"Hey Janil time to go…."

"Aidan….?"

"Huh….?"

"Do you think she's all right?" her eyes were gazing down and her tone was soft like last time.

The former soldier knew who she was talking about" you mean if sarge Farron is all right?"

"She's not a sergeant anymore, not a soldier either I just….why did she have to quit?"

"You remember what lieutenant Amodar told us, her younger sister got captured by the Pulse Fal'Cie and she didn't have a choice but to volunteered to get purge in order to save her sister. Getting on the train meant she quit her military status because only civilians can get purge…."

"But you heard what happened at the Hanging Edge, PSICOM was ordered to kill all those civilians that was what the Purge was all about. She….Lightning was caught in that mess I don't know if she's-"

"Stop thinking nonsense Janil we know her well she's not going to be beaten that easily."

"But the Vestige was destroyed along with the entire Hanging Edge, there's no way she, Naruto or her sister could have survived that it's impossible!"

Aidan put his hands on her shoulders" enough just calm down, thinking about it will only make you feel worse. Right now let's help these people and NORA too."

The former soldier nodded trying not to shed tears" I'll try my best…."

"Good let's get going."

---

(Scene change)

The skies were filled with a large fleet of Havoc skytanks were flying above the city of Palumpolum. The airships released mechanical units as they flew making a landing on the city grounds, while in another direction more of the air ships were flying through. They released the same type mechanized unit while a larger one landed on the ground the military were mobilizing their forces and preparing to fight their enemy. By now PSICOM have taken over the city and they have already closed down major roads as well as communication and transportation, this was an even bigger emergency since the discovery of the Pulse Fal'Cie at the Vestige.

This was the first time they were facing a huge threat after the Pulse Fal'Cie, they needed to be prepare and fight this enemy without any mercy. Most of the soldiers were afraid they have never faced such foe nothing has been heard from the lower world since the war of transgression five hundred years ago. Their only focus is to fight the enemy and fulfill their duty as soldiers, to protect the people of Cocoon. On the ground a transport vehicle arrive carrying weapons and ammunition as members of the Guardian Corps came to pick up their arsenal, they were also called help PSICOM fight the threat.

*Attention all units. This is director Rosh PSICOM division. Cocoon is caught in the grip of a Pulse-born terror if we allow l'Cie activity to continue panic will rip our world part. The peace and stability we have fought so hard to maintain will be nothing but a memory. Pulse l'Cie threaten our very way of life they must be eliminated, there can be no hesitation that is all.*

Rosh stood in a hover platform with a PSICOM predator he removed his communication piece handing it to the soldier. This crisis was too critical to be left out he has been put in charge of this mission and it was up to him to make it a success, his goal to eliminate the Pulse l'Cie. He remembered what Parlos told him how dangerous they were and the face that one of them transformed into the legendary beast of destruction, Ragnarok. His former academy students were the l'Cie, his enemies that threaten this world. There couldn't be any hesitation like he just told to his men he wasn't planning to back down from this.

Like he told Naabat he was a soldier of the Sanctum he's here to take orders and obeys them. His missions like everyone else's to protect Cocoon from any threat, namely from the lower world Pulse. There was an l'Cie infestation in their paradise, their world was in danger. He has made up his mind he didn't care if they were his students or that they were the best in the military academy, they were the enemy and they needed to die to keep the peace intact. The PSICOM director walked gazing at the distance where more Havoc skytanks were arriving at the city, he couldn't fail it wasn't an option.

"If we fail, our citizens will pay the price."

---

(Scene change)

(Location: The Metrostile Palumpolum)

"Task force reporting in…."

"Begin operations immediately."

"Sir!"

The Group of Guardian Corps soldiers arrived shortly after the PSICOM squad securing this part of the perimeter soon it will be completely secure. Proof that the military was taking this very seriously their orders were clear, more GC soldiers arrived following the orders of another PSICOM group. They started patrolling the area looking for the enemy l'Cie with their weapons tightly in their hands another corner was being watched over by Guardian Corps and PSICOM soldiers alike their eyes were all over the place making sure to spot anything that moves ready to fire at will. Unaware for any of them that the intruders were already there, keeping a low profile and looking calm.

Carefully running without getting the attention of the soldiers Lightning, Naruto and Hope reached the back of a steel platform. They had a good view ahead seeing a group of soldiers taking orders from another group wearing black armor uniform they recognized them as being part of PSICOM. They l'Cie trio were lucky to have made it to the city without getting caught, even if by now the military has secured the entire place. Now they needed luck to get pass these soldiers and advance, they already knew they were expecting them since Parlos was watching them from his cameras back at the Gapra Whitewood, he must have reported of their infiltration.

Naruto was staring at the view it wasn't good, it will be impossible to get through without alarming the soldiers. No choice but to fight the blond jinchurikki was feeling a little restless since he got back from his world and speaking with Jiraiya, he was happy to have at least met his teacher. The blond didn't had time to be thinking of nostalgic moments they needed to head out to a safe place before making their next move, he had a feeling that their journey to Eden was going to be put on hold. The Uzumaki had a feeling that Lightning was going through some mix of emotions whether to go to the Sanctum capital or not, since she has fed up Hope's appetite to get strong and have revenge.

Lightning was in deep thought since they arrived to the city, there were more soldiers than she expected. The Sanctum wasn't showing mercy when it came to hunting them passing through the city wasn't going to be easy, they will have to fight more than they did at the Gapra White wood. The former sergeant was filled with regret since she has made Hope to follow the path of revenge on both Snow and the Sanctum, she was the one that told him to shut down any emotion he had and only focus on his goal. She reached to her necklace and touched it Naruto saw her, just as he thought she was bothered and she was starting to have second thoughts in going to Eden.

Hope saw the many soldiers ahead and he didn't care, he knew by now they were strong enough to take them on. They have defeated quite the enemies including surviving two Eidolons, including one that can summon twelve more. The teen wanted to fight more to get stronger, his strength increasing will lead to meeting up with Snow and finally have his revenge. Thanks to Lightning he had a feeling that the NORA leader was still alive and that make things even better, he was hoping his patience will paid off until he can finally reunite with the tall blond. Determination filled him to show him what he's made off and to make him pay for taking his mother from him.

The silver haired l'Cie turned his gaze to the pink haired soldier" we can make it, get to the station and board the train for Eden."

"You think it's still running?" asked the older Farron.

"If the military already has the city secured, they must have close down any transportation in and out of Palumpolum. Maybe any communications too, they have to make sure that any l'Cie don't try to escape" said Naruto.

"Makes sense no running for us, they want to kill us here because they have the advantage in numbers" replied the pink haired soldier.

"If the train isn't running, well make it run."

"That's a bit reckless Hope, we should find another way to get to the station isn't that right Light?"

"Not like we have a choice…."

"If we get to the train we'll punch straight to the heart of the Sanctum, now you're thinking like a Pulse l'Cie?"

"First he's a Pulse l'Cie and second isn't going to Eden to attack the Sanctum your plan in the first place."

"Naruto's right and besides this is operation Nora. It's not just Snow I'm after. The Sanctum's got to pay too."

"You mean operation revenge?"

The teen gazed at the whiskered blond with a semi-upset expression" what isn't that what you want?"

"I guess…."

Lightning has given a deep sigh once again touching her necklace feeling of guilt and regret came back to her. Naruto was aware of her behavior and he couldn't blame her, she was now struggling between taking her revenge and dragging Hope's revenge along for the ride or just not to go and prevent a suicide mission from happening and the possibility of getting killed. Guilty for not believing in Serah, guilty for choosing revenge on the Sanctum as an excuse to make her fight, and guilty for putting Hope on the path of vengeance hatred and power go hand in hand in said path.

The silver haired grabbed her hand shaking her from her deep thought" hey, you're the one that said we had to fight. Every minute we waste, we're tempting fate."

"I almost forgot about focus time or Cie'th time if we don't go with the focus thanks for reminding me Hope" the Uzumaki gave a grin.

"There's some underground tunnels not far from here. I used to play in them when I was a kid no one uses the entrance anymore so the army doesn't know about it. But I know where it is we can sneak in under their noses."

"Sounds good" she smiled at his plan.

"That is the only plan we have that is very clever and makes sense not bad Hope, let's do it."

"Great here we go" nodded the teen.

They moved a little further behind a couple of steel crates, spotting more soldiers. Naruto was feeling bothered seeing too many GC working together with PSICOM it didn't looked right, even if they were part of the Sanctum military branch. Both have always had different ideas and some didn't went eye to eye with the other branch he was glad to have joined the Guardian Corps and he was glad Sasuke left PSICOM.

"Huh no more rivalries now PSICOM's brought in the Guardian Corps."

"And I don't like the sight of that" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Okay, there's an old drainage pipe. We can use it to avoid being seeing. The tunnel entrance is a little further up."

"We'll take it easy, let's not bring any attention to ourselves."

"Right we'll move in swiftly and fight if it comes down to it" replied the former sergeant.

Carefully the l'Cie trio made their move they walked through the back, slowly moving as they spotted two Corps soldiers patrolling the area. Lightning waited before she gave them the signal to move once the soldiers have turned their back, they quickly ran passing through them avoiding detection. They went to another they were almost to the sewerage pipe, they were really lucky three Corps soldiers walked ahead leaving the path to the pipe open. Unfortunately things weren't going to go their way, or maybe lady luck wasn't on their side as Hope tripped making a loud noise.

"What was that?" said one of the Corps soldiers.

"Over there intruders!"

"Damn things can't go our way" thought the annoyed Naruto taking his gun blade.

"Sorry" the silver haired teen got up.

"Here they come!" Lightning has taken her gun blade too spotting the soldiers heading their way.

The battle started the Corps soldiers were using batons as their weapon, they cast mana drive water. Naruto went for the offensive using ruin and aero, teaming up with Lightning tackling down one of the soldiers. Hope used blizzard, fire and aero to take down another soldier, the last soldier was defeated by the Uzumaki knocking him out with his gun blade. But the fight wasn't over the noises from the fight made the other soldiers who were patrolling in the other area to head their way, it was going to be another battle. The soldiers fell just like the others it showed that they were just pushovers, not that tough.

Naruto blocked the attack from the remaining soldier as he charged at him he kicked the baton from his hand having the Corps member at his mercy. The blond jinchurikki pinned him to the ground Flashflare saber was put to his face, giving him the idea that one wrong move and he was going to get it. Lightning and Hope were done with their opponents walking to the blond, at first they didn't know what he had in mind. The pink haired soldier figured out what he was up to once she saw him having the Corps soldier in threatening position, it's like she could read his mind and knew what he was going to ask the soldier.

"What's he doing?" asked Hope.

"Getting some answers…."

"What?"

"All right pal time to talk" he tightened the hold of his gun blade.

"Just kill me already l'Cie I ain't telling you anything!"

"I'm not planning to just answer me why are the Guardian Corps taking orders from PSICOM?"

"Was there some sort of change in command?" asked Lightning.

"What you don't know you two used to be Corps members?"

"Just spill the details I promise you won't get hurt" said the blond jinchurikki.

"An l'Cie giving promises I don't believe you."

"Just answer me!"

"I guess you won't know, the Guardian Corps are now under PSICOM's command."

"What….?"

"Change of command then?" replied the former sergeant.

"What about lieutenant Amodar?"

"You don't know about him either, Amodar resigned from the Corps after the Purge operation incident."

"Resigned?" Naruto was shocked along with Lightning.

"Why what happened?"

"Shortly after the incident at the Hanging Edge Guardian Corps was ordered to aid PSICOM in the hunt of Purge survivors but he refused to obey those orders. You know what happens to military personal who doesn't obey direct orders?"

The two former GC soldiers stood in deep thought remembering the Corps rules, the consequences for such action was either expulsion from military ranks or resignation if the soldier chooses to. They knew how honest was Amodar no doubt he chose to resigned than being kick out of the GC, things have taken a turn for the worse. The great and mighty Guardian Corps have fallen now they were taking orders from their supposed rivals, there was no honor anymore the branch's glory has been crushed. The two former soldiers we're in deep thought while Hope was staring at them, looking like he didn't understood the situation or not figuring them out.

Naruto felt like he has lost important people in his life. The Guardian Corps was the only military organization of Cocoon that he truly felt like he belonged there he has come to have a lot of respect. He made friends and forged bonds with them like Aidan and Janil there was so many happy memories he shared during his days with the Corps, and of course there was lieutenant Amodar. A man he considered a true leader and an aspiring figure to everyone in the GC, to him he was the perfect example of a great soldier. Now all those memories have been crushed with hearing the sad news, he lowered his head in sadness.

Lightning was in the same boat as the Uzumaki hearing of Amodar's resignation has hurt her emotionally and her pride as a former soldier of the Guardian Corps. She has considered the former lieutenant as a good role model and father figure he was the best soldier she has ever met. With the older man out of the GC there was no hope for the military branch, since it has been put under PSICOM's command. Memories came back to her since she first entered the Corps climbing up the ranks becoming sergeant, having her own squad. Those were truly happy times she understood how the whiskered blond was feeling, both were feeling the same pain.

"Guys we better go more of them might come" Hope was looking around for any signs of more soldiers.

Naruto gave a sigh removing his gun blade away from the Corps soldier's neck" get out of here, but let me warn you pal."

The blond jinchurikki pointed to the pink haired soldier" if you call for reinforcements, my friend here will find you and she will give you a very unpleasant death. Take it from me you don't want to make her angry she's very scary when she gets cranky."

His cold tone made the soldier to almost crap his pants. Turning to the pink haired woman he was scared to death Lightning was following Naruto's lead. She was giving him such a serious glare, she cracked one knuckle while with her other hand holding her Blazefire saber in a deadly way like she was ready to slice him in half. That was enough for the Corps soldier to run for his life, he ran so fast not caring if he might be out of breath. The soldier was out of sight in a matter of seconds his speed was impressive as the l'Cie trio watched him gone in a heartbeat. The Uzumaki chuckle lightly while the older Farron rolled her eyes she probably enjoyed the small joke.

They got back to the task at hand they resumed following Hope, the teen lead them through the sewerage pipe. They traveled the pipe corridor finding an exit making the teen stopped there was a group of Corps soldiers in the corner. Luckily for the trio they didn't spotted them so they were pretty much safe, following the silver haired teen they took another entrance to a pipe. Carefully running the corridor so the sound of their footsteps didn't attract unwanted attention, they reached another exit. They were spotted from behind by another squad of Corps soldiers, Naruto reacted casting aerora.

They were blown away while Lightning charged at them using blitz, they were taken out in a easy victory. They were thankful that they didn't have any battle experience, so they weren't that tough or maybe it was because they have grown strong as l'Cie. Not wanting to meet up more of them they climbed a pair of stairs and make a complete halt, spotting a Velocycle flying around in cirlces. From experience in the military Naruto and Lightning knew that Velocycles were strong vehicles carrying heavy fire power, fighting it wasn't in their best interest. Lightning casted libra and saw that it was resistant to elements even physical attacks.

"What are we going to do?" asked Hope.

"I think we can avoid fighting it" replied the whiskered blond.

"It won't be easy, we'll need to be quick on our feet" said the pink haired soldier.

"Can we really take that risk?"

"No it's flying at low altitude and with its speed, we'll get spotted. It will be better if we take it by surprise."

The older Farron nodded agreeing with him" got a plan?"

"I think I do, we both know a Velocycle's armor is very tough attacks won't harm it enough. We need to use stronger attacks, just follow my lead."

Hope nodded" Naruto you can really be a quick thinker sometimes."

"In these kinds of situations he is, most of the times he's an idiot."

"Come Light don't be harsh" he turned to her but stopped complaining seeing the smile she was giving him he knew she was just teasing him while the teen gave a laugh.

It was the kind of smile that made him blush and showed her beauty to its maximum, he cleared his throat" okay here I go, wait for my signal."

The blond jinchurikki waited for the Velocycle to make another turn waiting until it shows its rear. The blond quickly moved to a platform below the steel bridge the other l'Cie were on, waiting for the right time to attack. The Uzumaki took Flashflare saber using his magic to charge up the weapon in wind elemental he was going to be ready for the military vehicle. The Velocycle returned in view of the blond he used aero strike the strong wind current has destroyed some parts of its armor, in return the vehicle has spotted them it went to attack formation.

"Now!"

Lightning and Naruto arrived getting on view of the vehicle they fired thunder damaging it because its armor has been weakened thanks to the Uzumaki's strong attack. The Velocycle was about to prepared its machine guns and rocket launchers, but that wasn't going to happen.

"Holy!" shouted the blond.

The strong ray of light hit the Velocycle destroying it the explosion was big enough to be seen throughout the area.

"It worked!" Hope said.

"Of course it did" smiled the Uzumaki.

"Time to move before it brings more attention" said Lightning.

"I guess the explosion can bring their attention."

"I don't want to stay to find out" replied the teen.

"Right…."

Walking ahead they entered another entrance to the sewerage system just like Hope said, both former soldiers were glad that the teen knew these secret areas or they would be fighting more than usual. They weren't that familiar with neither Palumpolum nor does that either of them has done mission in said city, it felt like taking a grand tour and Hope was their guide. They jumping reaching a wide part of the sewerage system with a view, there was something ahead. They reached the ledge as they jumped down it felt like their little detour was really a long way than usual.

"Talk about close calls…."

"No kidding but thanks to you we avoided quite the battles. Although I don't think Light likes to avoid them she likes the fighting."

"Not necessarly I only fight when there's no other choice."

"Come on Light you can fight an entire army of PSICOM and survive."

"Fighting many enemies and acting reckless are two different things" she frowned a little but she didn't minded the sort of compliment.

"But you're so strong remembered the Purge train, running to a soldier kicking him deactivating the handcuffs. You went bam and then wham on another that's truly awesome you don't see Sanctum soldiers fighting like that" Naruto was obviously in fan boy mode.

The former sergeant tightened her fists her cheeks were in the same color as her hair" flattery won't get you anywhere Uzumaki."

"It's the truth not flattery."

"…..." the pink haired soldier was still under the effect of his compliment feeling embarrassed.

They stopped walking hearing Hope laughing he stopped when he noticed they were staring at him" sorry I didn't mean it but I can't help it. You guys act like a married couple."

"What?" both replied at the same time?

The teen didn't say another word as he resumed walking leaving the two adults behind. Lightning followed him not wanting to look at blonds face because she was too embarrassed shortly Naruto followed her giving a silly smile. Although he liked the thought of being married to the older Farron he will feel like the happiest person ever, he put the image aside moving on. While Lightning was trying to keep distance from the whiskered blond due of the thought, yes she already thought of being Ms. Uzumaki before. The thought was nice, refreshing and it made her embarrassed that he was next to her.

"I think we made it past all the guards" said Hope trying to change the topic he brought minutes ago of them being a married couple.

"Yeah if we're lucky we might not have to worry about dealing with the military anymore."

"Don't bet on it" replied the former sergeant.

The l'Cie trio was walking a long path below the city, there were many moving platforms. There were also platforms that were similar to the corridor they were walking on. Naruto has spotted monsters on those platforms so much for not running into bad company, fighting was inevitable for them it seems. One thing that has caught his attention in the distance an orange colored being which it was spinning, having the shape of a butterfly. Each on the sides had faces it gave the blond jinchurikki an idea who it was, remembering his lesson at the military academy. They were in Palumpolum so he knew who it was he never thought he will be able to see it.

Lightning got a little worried staring at the place to think Hope knew such a place underground of Palumpolum. If they arrived here through the sewerage then there might be a way to reach the surface again, she was in deep thought concerned if the military knew of this place. The entire city was filled with soldiers and every street was probably closed down, no one was entering or leaving. This was more dangerous than the Vile Peaks and the Gapra Whitewood she knew the military will throw at them everything they have considering how much of a threat they were to them.

"Don't worry, it'll be fine only kids like me know about that entrance" Hope seemed to have read her mind.

"They'll find it. They'll call in a team and canvass the whole tunnel system."

"It's a good thing they don't know about it. We're in danger already we don't need any more danger to make it worse for us" said the whiskered blond.

"Then we'd better hurry."

"So, where's this thing come out, anyway?" asked the former sergeant.

"Well, it…it-I don't really know for sure" said the unsure teen.

"We'll find out today" she put her hand on his shoulder as a friendly gesture.

"I already know there is plenty of fighting here. There are monsters ahead" said the Uzumaki.

"Why would they be here?"

"Maybe to annoy us to death" Naruto gave a grin.

They reached the end of the platform the only thing in view were two control panels. It was obvious they needed to pull one of them Lightning did the honors pulling the one on the right. Soon a moving platform came to them they boarded it hoping it will take them to the other side. The ride seemed to be long because the platform wasn't the fastest around waiting was the next thing to do.

"Automated nutriculture I think I remember hearing about this school."

"That's very smart of you Hope for pointing it out" Naruto smiled he also felt like it was mentioned to him at the military academy but he wasn't so sure.

"You should take notes from him."

"Yeah I should take notes from-hey!" the blond turned to the pink haired soldier basically she told him he was stupid.

Lightning didn't look at him keeping her gaze at the incoming platform, although she was smiling. It was still confusing why it was so much fun to tease him, it felt right so she didn't deny it. Naruto just shrugged his shoulders by now he was used to the woman's teasing, by now he knew she wasn't being serious. He would never understand women and why they would tease men sometimes, it was a mystery to him. Hope only rolled his eyes by now he was used to older Farron's teasing since he was the one that said the "they act like a married couple" comment around each other. Somehow he didn't minded if they acted like that it showed how close they were in their friendship.

They finally reached platform on the other side moving on, but they knew it wasn't going to be an easy journey. There were enemies ahead as the blond jinchurikki has spotted them in the far distance the first ones they encountered were called Flanitor. Not so strong creatures but they were highly annoying because when one of them was wounded the other one will cast its special technique rescue, which heals the other and vice versa. But once one was taken out the other shares the same fate easier than the first one, the secret was attacking faster without stopping.

The second enemy they encountered traveling the corridor was the Lucidon, which by far was the toughest enemy they have ever faced. It was all because of its tough shell all physical and magical attacks didn't harm it much the l'Cie trio had to hit it hard with their strongest attacks, until they would be able to lunch it in the air. Another thing that made the Lucidon a tough opponent was its photon burst attack it hurt like hell and the trio had to constant use cure to keep themselves healed and safe. Naruto thought the Flanitor was annoying but he changed his mind after they fought the Lucidon, and to think he never expected to meet an even annoying monster than the Pulsework soldier.

After they were done with the battle they reached a circular platform and they were able to get a better view of the orange spinning colored being. Now that they were in a much better view the Uzumaki recognized it completely, he did leaned about it from class. At least their journey was being educational in some ways, he didn't complaint he learned knowledge is good to strengthen the brain since it was a muscle too.

"That's the city's food-production Fal'Cie" said Hope.

"Yeah it's Carbuncle" replied the whiskered blond.

"You finally remember it after memorizing its name for a hundred times at the academy" Lightning nodded in full approval.

"That's right. That's one of our enemies, being Sanctum and all" said the teen.

"So….kill him and cut off the food supply. That'll make us popular."

Naruto laughed nervously at her comment" right destroy a food supplier Fal'Cie…."

"I think people have enough reasons to hate us don't you?"

"Yeah, you're probably right. Hungry people make for angry people."

"Exactly thank you Light I thought you were planning in doing something you might regret."

"I was being sarcastic" the former sergeant believed the blond thought she was being serious with her previous comment.

"Sure thanks for telling me now" he gave a silly grin.

"Why don't we use it as a landmark?" asked the silver haired teen.

"You mean Carbuncle?" said the Uzumaki.

"Not a bad plan Hope" replied the older Farron.

They trio reached another lever calling for another platform, stepping in the moving platform took them to another long platform similar to the last corridor. Too bad for them that there was a Lucidon waiting for them, it started charging it photon burst attack. It took them an hour to break through his strong defense and weakening it, it was defeated the moment it was launched in the air. The results of the fight the l'Cie trio were tired, the monster was really tough they took a breather. It was for the best that they took a five minute break before continuing, they took the time to heal any injuries it was important to stay in shape and in the best conditions ready for the next battle.

When the break was over they resumed their walking reaching another circular platform, only this they got an even better view of the Fal'Cie Carbuncle. Soon it became clear to Hope at what they were doing, using Carbuncle as a landmark. It was his idea but he realized the irony of the situation, he gave a small chuckle making his companions wondered what was wrong with him. The silver haired teen gave another look at the being shaking his head the irony was still present.

"Look at us Pulse l'Cie, using a Sanctum Fal'Cie to tell where we're going, sort of strange."

"More like ironic it's kind of amusing that we're supposed to be using an enemy as a landmark" replied the whiskered blond.

"Not really. We've relied on them our whole lives. The food we eat, the light and water, it's all from the Fal'Cie. You know, I think Cocoon was really built for them. The rest of us, we're just leeches parasites" said the former sergeant.

"You think so too huh….I kind of feel the same way. I always wondered that maybe this world is only for the Fal'Cie and…we don't belong here."

"It's because of you…."

"Me?" blinked the blond jinchurikki.

"You remember at the academy. You used to say that Cocoon was a world for the Fal'Cie created for the Fal'Cie, and that we shouldn't be here."

The Uzumaki nodded" I still feel that way, living in Cocoon I realized that this world isn't probably the one for us. We rely on the Fal'Cie too much, it's like we can't survive without their help, but what about us we can do something too we can rely on ourselves too right?"

Hope was amazed by his speech" you've been thinking about that for a while?"

"Yeah you know using common sense and all, it's not really something clever to say."

"I think it's clever I agree with you" replied the pink haired soldier.

"You do?" he turned to her and she nodded making him feel flattered.

"I guess I could agree too. But I don't think we're parasites to the Fal'Cie, they protect us, nurture us. They take care of, well, normal people. They treat us like we're special, almost like…like we're pets!" he finished clapping his hands finally finding the appropriate word.

Lightning's eyes widened in shock in realization, she felt like she has been given a revelation. It soon became clear to her of the truth of things, the reality that it was their paradise in the sky.

"Light….?" Naruto saw that she was still with the same expression.

"Like pets…."

She walked a little ahead staring at Carbuncle" to them, we're just like pets. That's it now it makes sense, I've been so blind. I was born into a Fal'Cie world, raised on a Fal'Cie leash it was the only life I knew how to live. When it was taken from me I was completely lost, without a master to follow my life had no purpose."

Naruto stood in deep thought her words echoed in his mind, they were pretty deep. It really made sense that they were pets of the Fal'Cie, like dogs on a leash that needed to behave in order to live in their world. Those who didn't follow rules and behave were punish, namely those who were l'Cie from the lower world. Pulse was the enemy and l'Cie from said world will be execute here there we're no exception it was the reason why they were fighting to survive. He hoped for the best that Lightning could find a new way of life, with this mess they we're in it was almost impossible to achieve. He knew very well he wasn't going to leave her side.

The pink haired soldier turned to the teen" Hope listen to me. This l'Cie curse, it took everything from me. My future, my dreams I didn't want to think so I fought instead. As long as I was fighting, nothing else was real, I was running away. And you Hope you got swept along with me."

The older Farron knew that Naruto didn't count since he will tell her that it was his choice to help her rescue Serah. He made the choice on his own free will to board the Purge train with her, to get branded as an l'Cie and be the enemy of Cocoon. So there was no reason to say that she drag him along too, he will be upset with her for saying that. However she was grateful he chose to help her and stay by her side through good and bad, she knew how lucky she was to have someone like him.

"But Lightning, I don't understand" said the silver haired teen.

She turned to him knowing this was the right thing to do" operation Nora is over."

"What?"

"I…."

"No!"

"Hope calm down" said the blond.

"Listen I-"

"No you told me to fight!"

"I made a mistake!"

"But-you can't do this. You can't just build something up like that then abandon me."

She went to him putting her arms on his shoulders" I won't abandon you, I won't."

The Uzumaki followed" hey don't forget about me I'm here, I'm not going to abandon you either. I never turn my back on my friends."

"Thanks but I just can't throw in the towel."

"Nobody is telling you that you should give up on your revenge."

"What?" Lightning was shocked at his comment.

"But I thought you disagreed with operation Nora" said the shocked teen.

"I don't agree with it, I don't like what you're doing. Revenge won't bring nothing, but telling you this won't change your mind you're still going through with it right?"

The silver haired teen gave a soft nod while the blond jinchurikki gave a sigh" you see, I got angry at you the last time you brought it up. But this is something you have to face by yourself you can either chose to listen to my words or your own resolve for revenge."

"And just because you're choosing revenge that doesn't mean I'm going to abandon you, I'm staying with you until the end no matter the results" he gave a big smile while giving the nice guy pose.

"Thanks Naruto I'm glad to have you as my friend."

Hope walked ahead of them as shortly they followed him. The Uzumaki's eyes softened thinking that he has done the right thing, this is the least he wanted. To have another dear friend following the path of revenge, it was enough what Sasuke went through he didn't wanted the teen to feel so much hatred. The whiskered blond felt a hand on his shoulder but it ended up reaching his hand, he turned to see Lightning giving his hand a soft squeeze.

"Hey…."

"I failed him" he whispered.

"No we both failed him. I screw up worse than you, I motivated his revenge at least you tried to prevent him from taking that path. You did better than I could ever do."

"Light" he felt hurt hearing her sound so sorrowful.

The pink haired soldier released her hold although she felt like holding his hand forever. They walked at slow pace while Hope was still walking ahead, he was in deep thought he has overheard their conversation. The silver haired teen was thinking about their words both were feeling guilty that he has taken this path, guilt for operation Nora. They believed to have failed him because he was on a mission to avenge his mother from her murderer, why would they feel like that. His expression says it all he had a lot to think about, both of his companions we're against his revenge there was support. Yet he felt thankful that both wanted to stay by his side no matter what choice, in his mind he already made his choice.

The rest of the journey was quiet none of them were saying a word, because each were in deep thought. The rest of the path featured more flanitor but it wasn't a problem for the trio, they quickened their attacks to prevent them from using rescue. They fought a duo and then two more ahead, the fights were easy they'd prefer to fight them than the Lucidon any day. When the fights were over the trio got back to their walking, yet they were still quiet without saying a word only when they were fighting. It felt like they were unable to speak like losing their ability to talk, it couldn't be help because the trio were experiencing some emotional problems.

Naruto and Lightning were feeling guilty for letting Hope fall into revenge and give himself to hatred. They should be the ones to help him get through his pain, to help him see the truth of his ways yet they seem to have failed. The teen's resolve was clear he wanted vengeance for his mother's death the one who took her life has to die. He wanted Snow dead that was the only thing to make him feel better or the only thing that will help him ease his pain, not caring that the NORA leader was Lightning's sister's fiancée. Not thinking how Serah will take the news or how his friend will take it either, there was nothing stopping him. Fighting and getting strong is driven by his will to get to revenge his actions spoke louder than his words.

They didn't realized Hope was now having a conflict with himself after listening to Lightning's words, like she has found a new resolve. She didn't wanted him to carry out operation Nora, no long she was giving him the support he needed to carry on, he was all right with the pink haired soldier's help. Naruto made it clear to him at Gapre Whitewood that he didn't like his revenge, he was against his plan he didn't understood how he was feeling. Now he didn't had a choice operation Nora has to be put on hold for now, the only question in his mind is what now.

He stopped walking while they didn't notice him" so what do we do now?"

The silver haired teen was holding his palm where his brand was located" we're l'Cie ticking time bombs. Enemies of Cocoon if we can't follow the plan do we just lay down and die?"

"I didn't mean we should give up."

"Nobody is dying on my watch, but I think our plan to go to Eden will have to wait" the whiskered blond turned to gaze at the pink haired soldier he could tell she was no longer determined to invade the Sanctum capital.

"Then what battles do we fight and against who tell me that?"

"I don't know yet…."

"You don't know yet?"

"Same here" the blond jinchurikki gave a sigh not knowing what to do about their current situation.

"That's right neither of us know what to do, but we can't lose hope."

"Hope there is no hope, not for l'Cie" the teen got seated on the staircase.

"There's you…."

"Oh yeah your name is Hope, Hope have some hope" the Uzumaki grinned at his joke.

"It's my name, not who I am…."

"I was just like you. My parents died. I had to be strong for Serah, so I thought I needed to forget my past and I became Lightning. I thought that by changing my name I could change who I was."

"But that's unlikely" thought the whiskered blond when it came to changing her personality by changing her name.

"I was just a kid. Lightning it flashes bright, then fades away. It can't protect it only destroys."

Naruto stood in deep thought thinking of the person she used to be, back when she was Lightning. She was serious, small talker, follow orders, no mercy or remorse to her enemies. He has experienced her change first hand becoming someone soft and caring, letting others in and see for themselves that she was really a good person at heart. She became Light he didn't care who she was he care for her and has accepted her for whoever she was, Lightning or Light or her past self in her childhood. The whiskered blond gave a small smile gazing at her, she and Serah lost their parents but they still grew up together with friends and family.

The former sergeant got seated on the stair case next to Hope" Serah tried to tell me, but I wouldn't listen."

She imagined that the younger Farron was standing in front of her making her hear leap with joy, but she stopped remembering her words at her birthday.

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

"I threatened her…."

The guilt she has thought she has buried deep within herself was coming back at full force. Not believing her, not trusting her, her own sister, her only true blood. She has denied when she told her she was a Pulse l'Cie, and she ended up by threatening her if she was really one. Of course she was bluffing, lying she would never have the will to actually kill her own sister. But it felt right to do it to scare her in order to make her change her mind in marrying Snow she failed for not trusting the younger Farron's word. She saw as the imaginary Serah called out to her fiancé and Snow walked to her, he was the one that believe her and he wasn't the only one for doing what she should have done.

"The only ones who believed her were Snow-"

"Don't say it!" shouted Hope cursing his name.

"Don't say his name. It brings everything back. I keep playing it in my head what happened to her and then I see his stupid face and…and he's smiling. How can he smile when she's dead?"

Lightning went to comfort him but he got up immediately" I know!"

"There's nothing I can do about it. I hate knowing that. No matter happens, she's not coming back!"

He got up looking at his hand staring at the l'Cie brand" when I was fighting there was no time to think about it. It felt good just to give in. But now you start talking about hope, I'm sorry I messed up…."

"No" the former sergeant got up and went to him taking his hand" it's my fault…."

"You're right" Naruto finally spoke walking to them" it feels good when you're filled with hatred and the only thing on your mind is revenge. How satisfying it must feel to get it over with and kill that person that took someone precious to you, killing that person is the only way to subdue all that anger and pain."

"What are you doing?" Lightning was taken aback by the blonds odd behavior.

"When you let revenge take over you and eventually letting it run your life, it's all over. Vengeance changes people for the worst, it turns them into a heartless raging monster with the goal to becoming strong to obtain the power to fulfill his revenge. Taking the life of someone to satisfy that feeling becomes your only one purpose in life, your only goal."

"Naruto…." the older Farron was really shocked at the seriousness of his words and his expression.

The blond jinchurikki was only thinking of Sasuke before arriving at Cocoon. The avenger of the Uchiha clan the one trapped in revenge, the one who got consumed by anger and the hunger to obtain power. Everything he trained for was for the sake of becoming strong and kill Itachi, the things he did to obtain it. Embracing Orochimaru's curse seal, willing to fight him to show his strength, betraying Konoha to join with the snake sanin and willing to kill him in order to get away from him all those memories came back to the Uzumaki. The fight at the Valley of the end the fight which it was supposed to be the one to sever their bond, it never happened because they got transported here.

"Maybe it was for the best to be sent on Cocoon or who knows how that fight would have ended…."

"Naruto are you okay?" Hope saw his expression his speech was really deep, his cerulean eyes were had a far off look.

"I'm okay. But Hope what you're forgetting about revenge is the damage that you will do to other people."

"The damage done to others, what do you mean?"

"If you kill Snow how do you think his friends from NORA will take it?"

"I…."

"How do you think I will take it he's my friend, how do you think Sasuke-hm…not much Sasuke we can leave that one. We can't forget Serah, she loves Snow and she accepted to marry him how do you think she will take it?"

The silver haired teen lowered his head understanding the Uzumaki's point" will I really hurt others if I manage to kill Snow?"

"Lastly Hope. If you kill him you will also be hurting Light."

"What?" the pink haired soldier felt silly at his comment.

"Light will be hurt but she doesn't like Snow?"

"Exactly" she crossed her arms.

"That might be true but if Serah's hurt for his death than Light will be hurt too because she's her sister, she cares for her a lot. She won't be able to calm her or comfort her to make her feel better. She will feel helpless because she failed in helping her."

"I already failed her once" her eyes softened filled with hurt.

"Is that true Light?" the young l'Cie turned to her.

"…..."

"She doesn't have to say anything if she doesn't want to. I'm just stating a point I know how much she cares for Serah. The only question I can ask you do you want to hurt all those people because of your revenge?"

"I don't want that I….."

"You don't have to give me your answer now but let me tell you something. I know Snow for years and I can tell that he feels worse than you."

"What how can he….?"

"I know he must be blaming himself for what happened at the Hanging Edge, the deaths of all those innocent people. All of their lives are now on his shoulders burdening him."

"It's his fault they're all dead!" snapped Hope.

"I would blame PSICOM too, for creating the Purge and thinking that killing thousands of innocent people is the best solution to prevent other people from getting "contaminated by Pulse"".

"I don't want to hear anymore!"

"I won't say another word, it's your choice Hope it's all up to you if you want to continue on this path. But let me warn you, it won't be pretty when you reach the end of that path."

The teen was sobbing silently while Naruto has gone ahead giving a sigh he prayed his words will reach out to him. Lightning went next to the teen putting her hand on his shoulder to comfort him she was so amazed at the Uzumaki's speech. Every single word he said was true it was impressive how mature and smart he can be sometimes, one of the things why she considered him to be attractive. Maybe his words of truth and wisdom may reach the teen, or at least make him think twice of his decision.

"It can't be he's always smiling like it never happened, there's no way he's feeling guilty."

"He's right Hope you should listen to him…."

"I don't know what to do."

"He really cares for you."

"Huh….?" the teen turned to the walking figure of the blond.

"Any person that Naruto meets and becomes his friend he becomes very loyal to them. He would do anything for them, must be part of who he is" there was a lot of devotion and respect in the older Farron's voice.

"Really….?"

"Come on let's not get behind."

As they resumed walking Naruto waited for them with gun blade in hand because there were two flanitor eagerly waiting for them. The trio regrouped and took care of them in a matter of minutes they finally reached the end of the corridor with another moving platform. Lightning pressed the lever making the platform head to their location, they boarded it and it took them to the other side rather quickly. It wasn't too far but they seem to have reached the end of the nutriculture complex because ahead of them stood an entrance to an elevator.

Hope was still in deep thought thinking of Naruto's strong deep words. Was revenge really such a horrible thing, enough to blind anyone in hatred and control their lives forever he felt like the whiskered blond was over reacting but he thought otherwise. He felt a great urge whenever he fought, it felt good to feel the anger the thought of getting stronger and fulfill his revenge was so sweet and intoxicating. Lightning's words echoed him to forget about operation Nora and let his mother's murderer go. He finally remember the other reason why they came to Palumpolum, to visit his father, he wasn't looking forward to that especially when his mother was gone like he would care about that.

Naruto and Lightning walked ahead heading to the door, they were hoping to reach the surface with the elevator and hopefully be safe away from the military. The silver haired teen was holding his hand where his brand was located he still wasn't happy that he was going to visit his father. Why should he visit him when he could care less about him or his mother, he won't even care to find out his wife was gone.

"Talk to your dad…."

"What why?"

"Fighting without hope is no way to live" she pressed a button activating the elevator.

"It's just a way to die."

"She's right hope it will be best to talk to him about everything that has happened" replied the whiskered blond.

"I want you to find the hope you were named for. Staying alive, I can help you with. But I can't-I can't give you hope f you go to see your father.

"What why would she think that?" thought the blond jinchurikki.

"You think meeting my dad will make anything better?"

"I think it will" replied the Uzumaki.

The teen shook his head" he has never listened to a word I've said. He's just-he'll never believe all this l'Cie stuff."

"Maybe he will maybe he won't."

Hope turned to Naruto looking upset" what makes you think he will believe me, how would you know?"

"Because I think he will, if he trusts you."

"He doesn't trust me because he has never shown he cares for me, or even mom."

The blond jinchurikki sighed" Hope I think your misjudging your dad. I think you can't know him well because you have never spent time with him, you don't know the kind of person he is."

"But I do know, he's been always busy with his work never giving any of his time for me or mom he could care less about his family. We waited for him to come at the fireworks festival but he never came, my mom hoped he was coming and yet when he didn't she was still defending him I just can't believe why she would side with him?"

"Listen I'm an orphan I was brought to the world on my own. But thanks to a miracle I was able to meet my parents I saw my mom and my dad."

"What….?" Lightning was shocked she knew he was an orphan but he never told her this piece of information.

"You knew your parents?" asked the teen.

He smiled remembering meeting Minato and Kushina" I did and they were great people, even if they didn't raise me or they weren't there for me I knew they were amazing. Both of them did the greatest sacrifice any parent would do for their own child they gave their lives for me in order to protect me. It is because of them that I'm standing right here today."

"I…I didn't knew" Hope was shocked at the revelation.

"For what they did for me I will always love them and cherish them I know they are proud of me. But if I choose to take the path of revenge and let hatred be my guide, I will be making their sacrifice for nothing all in vain. They wanted me what was best for me, to live an honest life where I can protect the people close to me and to follow my dreams."

"…." The teen was in deep thought his expression was very clear.

"Think about it, would your mother be happy if she finds out you're going to get revenge trying to take the life of someone?"

"What mom….?"

The elevator arrived as the trio got on, shortly it went to the upper floor that they thought it was the surface. Hope was more thoughtful than before after Naruto asked him that question regarding his mother, would she be proud of him finding out that he was going to avenge her. He has known Nora since he was born and when she has carried him in her arms as a newborn, the woman was too kindhearted. It was impossible she would never approve of what he was planning to do, but what was the point if she wasn't here anymore. He erased all those thoughts and turned to looked at the pink haired soldier.

"Snow believed Serah, didn't he?"

Lightning smiled she felt like all grudge and anger towards the NORA leader was gone" yeah….and so did this smart idiot."

"What kind of fiancé Snow will be if he doesn't believes her-hey wait Light what did you called me?"

"I said you're a smart idiot" she turned to him giving him that small smile yep she was teasing him again.

"Oh…okay just checking" he shrugged his shoulders.

"Whatever that means…."

(Naruto….?)

"Arthur" he recognized the voice of his Eidolon.

(I sense danger nearby, be careful).

"Yeah I guess I have that feeling too. I hate when this happens."

---

(Scene change)

The elevator finally reached the top floor which thankfully for the l'Cie trio, it was the surface of the city. It was nice to see daylight again yet for Naruto he still felt like something was wrong, his bad feeling has never been wrong so far even Arthur warned him. Once the elevator was gone the trio took a step gazing around the place, it seemed to be like the city's square plaza because of its wide space and it was completely empty. There was also a large screen in one of the buildings and the more they stood gazing at the area, the worse the Uzumaki's feeling got. The blond jinchurikki has unsheathed Flashflare saber just in case, one could never be sure he looked behind to his other companions.

"Stay your ground I don't like this."

*In a recently convened emergency conference…the Sanctum announced the fugitive l'Cie have been located. The military plans apprehend the l'Cie and carry out a public execution. These images coming you live from the scene in Palumpolum.*

The Uzumaki gasped when the large screen showed all three of them that were enough to tell him that his bad feeling was right all along. They have been found by the Sanctum, things have surely become for the worst for them there was no escape now. Just like that an entire army has arrived at the plaze surrounding all three l'Cie, both PSICOM and Guardian Corps were pointing their rifles at them. Mechanical units have also arrived to back the soldiers up there were too many, the odds were impossible to take them on. Along with the army came the small flying cameras, the ones responsible for recording the images of their presence. Completely outnumbered they felt like there was no way out, or no hope for them.

Rosh arrived at the scene finally meeting the l'Cie face to face. Yes he did recognize two of them as his former cadet students from the military academy, staring at their face were quite a nostalgic feeling. They were one of the bests cadets in the academy along with Sasuke, he did gain respect for them because of their dedication and commitment to the Sanctum. But that was all in the past now they were now enemies of Cocoon, l'Cie who needed to be capture and executed. His eyes were on the whiskered blond, he was the most dangerous one of the three according to what he was told.

"Uzumaki…Parlos said that he transformed into Ragnarok but he looks normal. No he's not normal he's an l'Cie."

"These are l'Cie. Show no mercy. They aren't people they're targets."

Hope was beyond scared he knew they couldn't take on so many enemies, fighting was out of the question they would get killed. But if they didn't fight they will get capture and eventually they will die either way, there was no escape, no place left to run, fight or die was the only option left. The teen didn't felt that Lightning and Naruto were in front of him protecting him from any harm it almost looked like two parents trying to protect their own child. Things couldn't end like this not until he meets with Snow and fulfills operation Nora, dying without his revenge that's not what he wanted.

"Start running, we'll keep em' busy."

"What but-"

"You survive…."

"Don't worry Hope we'll be right behind you just run to safety" said Naruto.

"I…."

The silver haired teen was shocked to think they will give him a chance to run and stay safe, to live another day. They were willing to protect him that far, he tried not to cry this was a suicide fight the odds were very low that they could survive just the two of them. The young l'Cie took a few steps back still shocked at what they were planning, he was happy to have met them. As for the former soldiers they knew the only way to survive all of this was to summon their Eidolons, they knew it was crazy to fight all of them on their own they needed their own allies to get out of this tough bind. They keep their eyes on all their enemies this was going to be hard task to summon their crystals without making them fired their weapons.

"This is going to be a pain in the ass, if we're not careful we'll be filled with holes" thought the blond jinchurikki.

BOOM!

"What's going on?" he gazed at the source of the explosion above them where there were more soldiers.

PSICOM soldiers were sent back and forth like they rag dolls. Snow punched another while kicking another one, he tackle a third one taking his rifle. This was his meaning of cleaning the house from infestation, once he was done with this part the other arrived. Sasuke and Fang gazed down at the large crowd of soldiers below, it looked impossible to fight through them all. Impossible odds weren't going to be an option for the l'Cie working with the Cavalry.

"That's some crowd. Gonna need a plan."

"Since we have heroes ever needed plans?" asked a cocky Snow.

Sasuke didn't replied to his question he jumped down and starting firing fira and thundara as he fell on the enemies showing no mercy, he slashed them with Masamune they never had a chance.

The Pulsian warrior grinned at the sight" show off…."

Snow fired his Eidolon crystal causing an ice shockwave to hit one of the soldiers. He fired the rifle to shatter the crystal causing a powerful ice wave to emerged and freeze anything in its path. The force sent soldiers flying as it created a massive ice slide and from the ice wave came the Shiva sisters, ready to aid their master.

"Fang!" he threw her the rifle and she caught it.

The NORA leader jumped as his Eidolon transformed in its gestalt mode the Shiva cycle it was running through the ice slid. Fang followed him holding the rifle she fired the weapon, they were met by heavy fire from the soldiers.

"It's him!" shouted Hope spotting his mother's murderer.

Lightning took his hands shooting from her gun blade cutting through the soldier. Naruto followed her backing her up, the blond jinchurikki was grinning for seeing Sasuke again. The Uchiha was taking down soldiers more than the rest when a squad was about to fire on them he cast a strong wave of blue fire hitting them. The fire was strong enough to burn through their uniforms he shortly followed the other l'Cie aiding them with the remaining soldiers.

Fang fired the rifle taking another soldier the other soldiers couldn't aim straight because at how fast the Shiva cycle is, the female warrior took out another one who was next to Rosh. The PSICOM director got angry and shoved the flying camera away which it was filming him, Fang grinned aiming her rifle at the camera destroying it. The explosion shook the director and one of the PSICOM soldiers.

"Move take us up!"

With Rosh gone the focused on the remaining soldiers who were almost beaten, Sasuke has taken everyone out while Lightning and Naruto finished with the last of them. They tried not to kill them but if they didn't had a choice then they were willing to take their lives, even sparing them they were still a threat to Cocoon. The Uchiha sighed sheathing his long sword he walked to the trio while Naruto was still grinning happy to see him again, their reunion was cut short. The Shiva cycle jumped above them landing on the ground as a perfect landing Snow was grinning while Fang smiled reuniting with almost everyone, still they needed to find the others namely Vanille.

"Yeah Lightning!"

"Way to spoil a reunion" replied Sasuke.

"What took you so long?" asked the Uzumaki.

"Hn…."

Snow and Fang got off the gestalt vehicle meeting up with everyone. Lightning gazed at the tall blond and unlike previous times she has met him, there was no anger in her eyes. The sight of the NORA leader has always annoyed her, angered her, she only felt like punching him. Now it was different she was actually glad to see him again, alive although she still didn't like him. Now the chances of escaping the city were high, she still had in mind that Hope visits his father. She couldn't have the teen by her side anymore since she couldn't bring him hope, she does know there was someone who could.

Naruto smiled at the gang but he knew they weren't complete. Sazh and Vanille were still out of there he has hoped that those two were still all right they chose to run away rather than fight, but running wasn't going to help. They could never run away from the military they will have to choose to fight or surrender. His eyes turned to the tall woman next to Snow her clothing was unique never seeing people dress like that here before somehow it was a bit familiar to Vanille's clothing. Also he admitted that she was attractive but he still thought that Lightning was more attractive, either way she helped them so she's obviously on their side.

The pink haired soldier shoved Hope towards the trench coat blond holding her Blazefire saber in gun mode" take care of him."

"Lightning, listen to me!"

"Get moving!"

"No, you don't understand Serah's all right she'll turn back!"

"What do you mean she'll turn back to normal?" asked a shocked Naruto.

"Yeah she's going to be all right!"

"Those are great news you heard him Light?"

The older Farron stood in deep thought the news really lifted her spirits and filled her with hope. She wanted to believe it was true and her sister will return to normal, that everything wasn't lost. Yet she felt hesitant if the younger Farrons comes back to normal will she be able to face her after not believing her, not trusting her word. The guilt was coming back again so much pain she has been hiding inside, that she failed to protect her sister that it was her fault she was captured by the Fal'Cie and turned to crystal. In fact she considers that Snow did more for Serah than she could ever do, at least he believed her and chose to stay by her side through good times and bad.

Naruto stared at the pink haired woman she was using her gun blade to hide her face from view. But he could tell the kind of expression she had, she was doing this because she was obviously hurt emotionally. He was confused why she hasn't the news well, she should be happy that Serah will come back. But she wasn't feeling any joy no smile appear on her lips, what was wrong with her it made him wonder what was going on in her head. The blond jinchurikki has made a mental note to ask her later, or maybe he will do it now he was concerned for her.

"Take care of Hope."

"Wait!" yelled the NORA leader.

"Naruto let's go!" called the former sergeant.

"Right!" he followed her.

Sasuke turned to Fang" we follow them."

The female warrior turned to the trench coat blond in a cheery attitude" and then there were four."

As she left Snow noticed the soldiers that were still alive we're getting back to their feet, one of the mechanical units Orion was also present with the group. They couldn't stay here but running wasn't an option he took Hope mounting him on the Shiva cycle, he followed ready to fight.

"So how've you been?" he raised his fist while smiling.

---

(Scene change: time skip)

(Location: the back alleys city district Palumpolum)

It took almost half an hour for Sasuke to explain everything to Naruto and Lightning. He told them about the Cavalry and Raines's goal of a world free of Fal'Cie rule, that they weren't following the Sanctum's orders at all. The two former soldiers we're confused by his explanation it was strange to hear about soldiers having different ideals, or the fact that they were willing to help l'Cie to fulfill their goal. It wasn't a bad idea as long as it wasn't to have them killed, right now they didn't argue or complaint since they didn't have a choice. If they will survive by helping the Cavalry then they wouldn't mind giving them a hand.

Lightning didn't had a problem with helping them in their goal she still feels some anger towards the Fal'Cie reminding her that it was a Fal'Cie that took and branded her sister, along with branding her and everyone else too. A Cocoon without Fal'Cie and where humans are the ones to rule in its place, she actually agreed with this goal and it was better than her original plan. She didn't have a problem since they helped her against the military a while ago and she knew to repay a favor with another favor.

Naruto was taken aback by the information, soldiers who wanted to rebel against the Fal'Cie. Hearing the goal of people ruling over Cocoon wasn't so bad, it's not like he had nothing to lose. The blond jinchurikki wanted to honor Serah's request in saving their world, maybe helping the Cavalry will save it. At heart he believed their focus was saving Cocoon, if it wasn't then he will find a way to defy it he's the one to choose his fate not branded by an opposite Fal'Cie. The important thing was to find Hope's home so the teen can visit his father, leave the city and find the other l'Cie. That was all in the blond agenda, their focus will have to wait for now.

The four l'Cie we're leaning on the wall Lightning next to Naruto and Sasuke next to Fang. They were taking shelter from the military who were probably searching every corner for them, they obviously won't take their assault at the square plaza lightly.

"Are we safe here?" asked the Uzumaki giving a sigh.

"We are so far" replied Lightning.

"You guys are fine with helping Raines?" asked Sasuke.

"I don't have a problem" replied the whiskered blond.

"Not like we have much of a choice, but I don't disagree with his vision" said the pink haired soldier.

"All right…."

"Light was all right to leave Hope with Snow you do know he has personal issues with him?" said the whiskered blond.

"It was the right thing to do at the moment, I know he can keep him safe."

"Okay then I just hope nothing happens…."

"Hope please don't do anything you might regret later."

"By the way Sasuke who is she?" Naruto gazed at the tall female next to the Uchiha.

"This is Fang she's the l'Cie I talked to you about."

The blond jinchurikki remembered his conversation over the phone before all of this mess started. The Pulse l'Cie the Uchiha fought at Euride Gorge energy plant" oh right yeah pleased to meet you I'm-"

"Naruto Uzumaki I know about you from Sasuke, he told me so many things about you."

"Really?" he was happy to hear that.

"Yes he told me you were a pansy, an idiot with the brain the size of a crawler-"

"Fang that's enough" warned the Uchiha.

"A whiner, a wussy for not telling Lightning-"

"Enough!" he stopped her just in time from finishing the last sentence.

"Tell me what?" the older Farron turned to the Uzumaki while he was nervous because he knew what it was all about.

"It's nothing…." stammered the whiskered blond.

The whiskered blond glared at the raven haired l'Cie" oh he said those entire things why am I not surprised."

"I was being sarcastic…."

"No you weren't mate…." Fang winked at him.

Lightning sighed turning to female warrior" hard to imagine I have to see you again…."

"Again you know her Light?"

"I saw her and Vanille at Bodhum mall I thought you were from Eden because of the clothing."

Fang chuckle at the irony" you couldn't be any more wrong mate…."

"You know Vanille?" asked the Uzumaki.

"She's her friend" answered Sasuke.

"Oh…hmm its strange Vanille never mentioned you before."

"And she wasn't going to say a word if she's friends with a Pulse l'Cie right?"

"I guess but that doesn't matter we're all the same now, so there's no hatred among us" Naruto gave a big smile.

Fang smiled at him" what a refreshing attitude, at least he's not emo like you Sasuke…."

"Hn" he got annoyed by her comment.

"I sure hope Snow and Hope are all right" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Let's find out" Fang picked up her phone dialing his number.

The phone started ringing in a minute it was answered.

*It's me, what's up?*

"You damn well know what's up why haven't you called in?"

*Sorry, slipped my mind.*

"Right…what's your status?"

*Great, great Hope's great too are you all right?*

"I'm great, you're great, everybody's great" she handed the phone to Lightning.

"Reunion time, figure out a rendezvous point."

She slowly picked the phone looking unsure whether to answer it.

"Don't sweat it line's is hyper-encrypted."

The former sergeant was about to say something but Snow beat her to the punch.

*Hey sis, is that you?*

She frowned but she wasn't really angry with" I'm not your sister."

"Same old Light" Naruto smiled.

*Sis got a place to regroup?*

"Hey how about Hope's home?" asked the Uzumaki.

The pink haired soldier nodded" we'll meet a Hope's place, Felix Heights 35-A."

*Right see ya there. Tell Fang and Sasuke hey.*

"Take care of Hope."

*All over it and I'll tell you more about Serah when we meet up. I found out she can turn back, there's still hope.*

"Snow listen to me. It's about Hope his mother was-"

*Lightning, it's me.*

"Hope…?" she was shocked did the teen heard what she was about to say.

"Hope…." Naruto followed.

*I decided-I have to- operation Nora.*

The older Farron couldn't hear him clearly due to the static" Hope, Hope answer me I'm sorry Hope!"

"What's wrong?" asked the blond.

Fang went to her" yelling doesn't fix it. It's called interference."

"The signal is being jammed" Sasuke said.

"You think the military has something to do about it?" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Probably…."

"We better go to Felix heights now" the Uzumaki turned to Lightning was looked worried about the call from Hope she had a bad feeling.

"You guys go on without us" replied the Uchiha.

"What….?" Naruto turned to him.

"We know Rosh well he probably has reinforcements somewhere in the center of the city. He will take the chance and mobilize them."

"You're right he always planned ahead just in case things go wrong."

"So what will you do?" asked Fang.

"Like I said go with Lightning to Felix Heights and regroup with Hope and Snow. We'll join you guys later."

"Don't worry about us we'll be fine" said the Uzumaki.

"All right sounds like a plan" the Pulsian beauty hit Sasuke on his left shoulder causing him to rub it with a frown.

"Why does she always have to hit me?"

"Be careful" Lightning gazed at the two but turned her full gaze on the blond.

Fang grinned at the way she was staring at him it was enough to tell her the big picture between the two, maybe this retrieving mission wasn't going to be so bad after all.

"We'll be careful."

"Let's take the left side, you take the right side" said the Uchiha to the two ladies.

They left while the former sergeant was about to take the opposite way.

"Hold it sunshine, I've got point you fall in behind. And see if you can cool off that head of yours" she took her phone and starting walking out.

Lightning sighed thinking about the silver haired teen hearing his words while the blasted static wasn't letting her listen clearly. He mentioned operation Nora that was enough to explain the picture, it was about his revenge. Now she regretted leaving him with Snow there was no doubt that he was planning in taking the NORA leader's life and it was her fault, for putting the teen under his care. It felt like she has failed the teen once again, if anything happens to the tall blond it will be her fault no one else's. She couldn't give him hope she only gave him reasons to choose revenge she was really a failure.

"Hope…."

---

To be continued

Another chapter done and a lot quicker than usual, although it's not as long as previous ones sorry for that I hope you will enjoy it. The gang has been reunited almost all of them thank you for the wonderful reviews I hope you will keep them coming. That will be all I will see you all later farewell.

-SPOILERS FOR FFXIII-2-

So far from the last two trailers the game looks very promising as slowly more of the story plot is revealed. The identity of the mysterious purple flame swordsman who a clashes sword with Lightning at the teaser trailer is named Caias and he's a time guardian he obviously wants Noel dead due that he's trying to change the fabric of time by helping Serah find Lightning. However it's still unknown his reasons to fight Lightning (probably to test his skills or probably he has a crush on her a fan boy lol). He's also in equal strength with Lightning so he's that bad ass.

Another character is revealed in the game wearing similar clothes to Vanille her name I don't know because I don't remember it was so complicated, I don't even know how its pronounces. She's also Caia's partner and she reveals to Serah that they are both the same.

On another part Snow was revealed with a new hair style that makes him look like a rock star lol. And also Vanille has been confirmed to appear in the game but I'm sure she won't play a role in the plot she will probably appear in a flashback or an apparition something like that. Either way this has made me want the game more curse you square enix for releasing more trailers, you're killing me here. That will be all spoilers' ends here.

Next time: Attack!