Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and FFXIII and I am annoyed of saying it so many times that it is the rightful property of Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

** Communications through phones and radio

(Bold and parenthesis Eidolons speaking)

*Kyuubi speaking*

WARNING: this chapter contains some adult situations and are not allowed to be read by audience younger than 18, also the rating of the story from here on has been changed to M for safety you've been warned thank you.

Chapter 31 When love blooms into a strong bond

(Location: Base camp Vallis Media Gran Pulse Terra Incógnita)

The group has taken their rest after the commotion last night with the Eidolon Alexander. With the help of Naruto and Lightning Hope managed to defeat the massive Eidolon and tamed his power, now the silver haired teen had his own Eidolon. He was also a symbol of his strength and which the young Enstheim learned that Eidolons are summoned to stop l'Cie from giving up or straying from their path. It wasn't the other way of them putting l'Cie through death as an only option the Eidolons were a sign of not giving up in what they believe in. Everyone has made up their mind in not giving in to their focus and carry out Barthandelus's wishes, they were going to things their way not what some Fal'Cie will tell them to do.

During their journey to fight their focus they have found a new destination where they can probably be safe from their fate as l'Cie. The only one place in Pulse that might have the answers to their questions the distant village of Oerba the home of the two Pulsians Fang and Vanille it was the only lead they have right now. All of them had high hopes that everything will be all right and that maybe they'll be able to safe Cocoon from being a victim to Barthandelus's murderous plan to have the population sacrifice to bring the Maker back. Not thinking negative they chose to travel the Pulsian world to get to the village and hopefully find a way to get rid of their brands, they have already prepared to leave the camp taking the second path to the right. The only path they haven't taken in this region since they have gotten here.

Safely they traveled through the passage even if the area they were currently was free of monster, no fighting for them here. Aware that further ahead there were will be more Pulsian wildlife waiting for them like the four members of the party that visited the Yashas Massif after fighting many groups at some of the creatures that they will be facing. This time they will be more prepared for them since the entire group was traveling they have more numbers with them it didn't meant it was going to be an easy journey. More dangers were awaiting them in the lower world as most of them were strangers in a strange land and their only chances for survival were the help of the two Pulsians accompanying them, they knew this land better than anyone especially when they seemed to be the only people from Pulse in existence.

Taking the path that will lead them to their next destination one member of the group was starting to have problems. Fang was starting to get left behind she seems to be checking her fee, her expression was showing that she was in pain she ended up giving a sigh. Finally she gave in and stopped walking spotting a small rock that could take two people she got seated feeling her feet were hurting a lot. She gave another sigh rubbing her feet not caring if she will get left behind, soon the rest of the group went to her. She was still rubbing her feet and right now the only thing that matters to her was to attend to her hurt feet, it didn't seemed to be a problem since the others didn't looked like they were in a hurry. When in truth they had ways to go before reaching the village of Oerba.

"Fang what's wrong?" asked Vanille.

"Yeah what's the hold up?" followed Snow.

"You guys go on ahead I'll catch up. Vanille show them the way we're not too far now from the Archylte Steppe."

"Okay…."

The red head choose to take the lead smiling when she noticed Hope was trying to do the same thing following her. She giggled and resumed the journey with the rest following her by although some members like Sasuke stood staring at the Pulsian huntress but they resumed the journey. Once they were gone the Pulsian warrior gave a sigh as she removed her long sandals revealing her feet which they were colored red like they gave taken quite the beating. She rubbed them they felt terrible she has forgotten all the walking and traveling they have done to pay attention to her aching feet. She wasn't the only one as Lightning approached her and got seated next to her the former sergeant was in the same boat too.

"Dang it my feet are bloody killing me."

"True, we have traveled a lot since we met up at Palumpolum" replied the former sergeant.

"All this traveling is bad for our feet I really forgot how tiring long journeys can be. But this is just the beginning, the path to Oerba is very far more punishment for our feet."

"We should be used to it by now, but it's not that easy" the pink haired soldier removed her Guardian Corps edition boots showing her feet.

"By Gran Pulse Lightning are those your feet?" Fang was shocked staring at the pink haired woman's feet which they were redder than hers they looked like they have gone to hell and back.

"Haven't got the time to check been busy with this journey, I guess they don't look all right."

"They looked like they need a long nice massage more than mine."

"A massage will that be enough….?"

"Trust me it will be enough your feet will feel like new, one's feet needs attention or we won't be able to walk properly."

"Thanks Fang" she nodded in approval waiting for the incoming massage.

"Oh no Lightning I won't be the one giving you the massage, we already have some assistance."

"Assistance?" the pink haired soldier wonder what she was talking about.

The Pulsian huntress smiled giving a nod she turned the other way" oh boys!"

(Time skip)

"How the heck did we end up in this?"

That's what Sasuke thought as he and Naruto were now massaging the feet of both women. Yep it looked like the kind of work a slave will do to his master or mistress, with the goal to make those feet looking better and good. The Uchiha looked annoyed that he was doing this sort of thing especially if it was to the tall Pulsian in front of him, yet the physical contact didn't bother him. He didn't understood why touching her feet felt good her skin was soft, for a strong warrior like Fang it surprised him. However Naruto looked much focused at the task at hand as he massaged his girlfriend's feet, he was only concentrated in giving her the best massage ever pretty much he has shown his loyalty to the older Farron many times.

As for the ladies well they were both experiencing heaven, more like their feet were experiencing heaven. It was truly a pleasurable delight it really felt so good how both boys were doing their best to please them with the massage, at least for the whiskered blond. Sasuke didn't look like he was giving it his all since he was annoyed but he didn't show it, the last thing he wanted is to make the Pulsian huntress angry. Especially after seeing her upset when she defeated Bahamut that was truly a terrifying experience seeing the wrath of a woman, he made a mental note to never get in her bad side. He will follow her orders and behave so he was pretty much stuck in massaging her feet, obey or experiencing her wrath he had no choice there.

For Lightning the experience of a foot massage was so alien, unique for her because she has never had one before. But after experiencing it for the first time in her entire life she was truly grateful for it, she felt so relaxed and it felt so good. She smiled relaxing as her feet were getting quite the treatment it was amazing how a massage can be this was definitely something she was never going to forget. It was good for her and perfect for her feet after this she will be able to walk happily again and with the upcoming journey she was going to need it. She opened one eye staring at her whiskered boyfriend who was trying his best to please her and he was doing one heck of a job in doing it which she thought he has succeeded since he started.

"I could get used to this…."

Fang smiled giving a soft moan as her aching feet were finally getting the treatment they deserved and best of all the Uchiha was the one doing all the work. She admitted he was good it suddenly felt like he was trying his best as she sensed the movement of his hands touching her bare feet slowing down a bit. It mad her wonder if he was trying to impress her or something like that she didn't know how the former PSICOM soldier thinks, it will be great if she was able to read his mind. She opened her eyes gazing at the raven haired l'Cie how thankful she felt for him she only asked him to do the favor and he didn't complained or whined about it. He was acting like a true gentleman the thought made her rolled her eyes he wasn't like that although he was close.

"I don't mind if he keeps massaging my feet forever" the thought was pleasant for the Pulsian huntress.

"How's that Light?"

"Good…very good Naruto" it was her only reply in a soft moan.

"You too Sasuke make sure you reach every corner of my feet and keep up the good work" Fang gave a smile at the Uchiha biting her upper lip a little at how good it felt.

"Hn…."

"You sound like you don't like what you're doing."

"I don't" he muttered.

"What was that Uchiha?" she raised her voice a little.

"Nothing…."

"Good don't feel down you're doing great."

"Why do I feel like I want to keep going, she seems happy" the Uchiha shot a glance at the Pulsian beauty.

As they resumed the massages soon both women were enjoying the treatment more than usual. Soon they started moaning more often a little louder this time unlike their previous soft moans of approval. Both boys were starting to feel a little uncomfortable since their moans were a bit intense, or more precisely too erotic. They actually sounded like they were moaning in pleasure, both were getting nervous. Their imagination was not getting the best of both thinking that they were moaning like they were actually being intimate with them a thought that made them blushed. Naruto tried not to get a nose bleed while Sasuke was getting annoyed yet his hormones were reacting, yep he pretty thought of intimate contact with a certain Pulsian warrior.

"Knock it off" the Uchiha gave a frown.

"Yeah, could you guys tone down the erotic moaning?" asked the blond jinchurikki.

"We're not moaning like that, someone's a little pervert isn't that right Naruto" Fang has given a grin at the whiskered blond.

"Just stop moaning like that okay?" he was blushing.

"It isn't our fault that it feels good, Light you think we're moaning like we were getting some s-e-x?"

"Oh Naruto please more!" the older Farron ignored the question lost in the foot massage.

"Light stop moaning like that" the Uzumaki was still blushing.

"Stop it" Sasuke scolded the Pulsian beauty.

"Oh yes Sasuke faster, harder, deeper I'm almost there" this time Fang was pretending like she was actually feeling such intense feeling.

"Almost what….?"

"Use your imagination mate" she winked at him.

"I'm done" the raven haired l'Cie got up.

"Like hell you are my shoulders need a massage."

"I only agreed to do your feet."

"Well now you're doing my shoulders come on, you don't want to make me cranky?" she gave him the warning expression.

Making her cranky was the last thing on his mind Fang was very scary when she was in a bad mood. To this day it was still a mystery to Sasuke why he was scared at her angry form, the fact that she can beat him and put up a good fight against him. But he wasn't going to argue with himself he went behind her while the Pulsian huntress was grinning to herself at how easy was to convinced him, proof that she had him wrapped around her little finger. Happy that she changed his mind she pulled her hair to the front letting him had a better chance to rub her shoulders, she suddenly felt good about herself. The Uchiha has gone behind her and did as he was told rubbing her shoulders in a circular motion, the results has given Fang a pleasing smile.

Naruto turned his attention from Lightning to his friend and had to sweat dropped in a friendly way. He felt lucky that the older Farron wasn't ordering him to massage her shoulders either, although he wouldn't mind doing her the favor. The Uchiha looked more frustrated than happy but a voice in the back of his head thought it wasn't bad to be adding more physical contact, it felt good to touch her shoulders. But he soon changed his mind when he realized that with rubbing her shoulders he had a good view of Fang's cleavage and it was quite promising. Just looking at it from his position the Puslain's chest seemed to be quite nice, the size seems to be around a D or maybe a double DD. He had no idea that the female warrior was aware of this situation, she already knew from the beginning.

"How's the view up there?"

"Great" his onyx eyes widened at the sudden realization that she knew what he was doing.

Expecting that she will get angry making him feel nervous he was surprised to gazed down that she wasn't. The Pulsian huntress was staring at him with a small grin on her face it was like she was expecting he was going to take the chance to actually have himself a free preview. It looked more like the whole thing was like a game to her, a game that she seemed to be enjoying it. It didn't made sense to him if she was aware that he was staring at her cleavage then she would have punch him into the next region of Pulse. On the other hand if she wasn't angry then she was probably playing with him, or more like teasing him for the fun of it. She was still staring at him with that grin on her lips and for some reason it made him feel uncomfortable, or maybe he was feeling embarrassed.

He resumed giving her shoulders the massage only this time he prevented himself from staring at the wonderful view that her chest has to offer. His cheeks had a small tint of pink in them and he was currently having an argument with his hormonal side of whether he should take a peek at her cleavage or not, this entire argument was really annoying him. Part of his hormonal side was telling to go for it because the Pulsian huntress already knew he was peeking and she didn't seemed to mind but there was his pride side that was telling him not to do it again because it was immoral, and it was considered an perverted act. But if the tall woman knew and she wasn't angry then there did no harm done, he growled mentally in hating both sides annoyed beyond belief.

"I hate this I should have stared in the first place…."

Naruto smiled proud of himself he was done with massaging Lightning's feet after a couple of minutes that felt heavenly forever for the former sergeant. The pink haired soldier gave a happy sigh smiling feeling her feet all better now, after this she was ready to have a long walk to anywhere in Pulse. And it was all thanks to her blond boyfriend who tried very hard for the nice massage therapy she had no idea that the Uzumaki was so good at it, now she knew who to count if her feet will need another massage. This was definitely the last time she will ask for another one after what she experienced oh she would want more than just one. Her expression could clearly tell that she was pleased it reminded her how lucky she is to have a boyfriend like the whiskered blond.

"How are you feeling Light?"

"Like you have given me new feet" replied the happy soldier.

"Great if you need anything just called me."

"I will make sure to do that next time" she stared at him and for some reason it was tempting to kiss him silly and probably to take it a little further.

"Thanks for the massage too Sasuke, both of them" Fang smiled at him as she got up.

"Hn…."

"Let's catch up to the others" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Right don't want to keep everyone waiting" replied the Pulsian huntress.

(Scene change)

They have catch up to the rest of the group as they were a large field that was very wide it looked like there was no end to it. Hope was in the lead walking he was the first to react to the sight looking in awe while the others shortly followed they noticed that they were alone in the colossal field. It was filled with many monsters part of the Pulsian wildlife some of them were a bit familiar to some members of the party because they have fought them before, from back at the Yaschas Masiff. This area was probably the most dangerous region of the lower world which they needed to be very careful since they were outnumbered by the many creatures. To some members of the l'Cie group they saw it as the perfect place to train and become strong, testing their new l'Cie abilities to the limit.

There were too many monsters in one place mostly they will have to obey most of the fights since some of the creatures were quite big in size. They did spot a couple of monsters oversize than the rest, turtle looking creatures with horns on the edge of their mouths. Everywhere they turned there were monsters everywhere Pulse was truly the home to a lot of menacing and fearful looking creatures. It made think the members from Cocoon that the people of Pulse must have been strong fighters like Fang and Vanille if they must've been able to survive such wilderness planet. It was necessary to be strong and skilled if they ever had a chance against the beings that were surrounding the large field. This was another proof that they had a long journey ahead before they could arrive to their destination of the Oerba village.

Fang and Vanille smiled at the oversize clearing everything looked like the same since the last time they were in their home land. Gazing it they realized it looked like it hasn't been over hundreds of years since they turned to crystal. The same monsters they recognized from back them, there were still here and most of them have increased in numbers. They spotted the strong Behemoth King chasing a couple of gorgonopsid, the mighty powerful Adamantortoise slowly stumping in the far distance. More monsters weren't too far from their position like a couple of flan, dire flan, navidon among other familiar monsters they were able to recognize all of the wildlife creatures. It really looked like old time except that there weren't any more Pulsian human life around.

Naruto was in awe at the view everything around really looked beautiful, the vegetation with the clear blue sky made it unique in everlasting beauty. Plus that he was able to spot Cocoon floating above this was the first time he has seen the world so far away looking so little in the distance. This was a view he would never get tired in seeing whenever he will wake up to start his morning and day, he smiled liking the area. Everything about Pulse was starting to fall into the Uzumaki's good side he was starting to like the world more and more, Sasuke probably felt the same. Although it was different from the blond jinchurikki because he was more interested in the training that fighting the monsters will bring leading to gain even greater strength from the one they currently possesses.

"Let's go" Hope resumed taking the lead.

"We made it!" said Vanille.

"Yeah, this is the Archylte Steppe" replied Fang.

They walked further ahead spotting more monsters in the distance but there was one monster that caught their attention, at least for Naruto. The whiskered blond blinked as he spotted something really big in the far distance, miles away from their position. A giant which skin was covered in rocks he was the biggest thing he has ever seen, in all honesty he was big like the planet of Cocoon. He gulped mentally feeling nervous if they will ever have to fight something that big, maybe they won't have to meet the king size being from the path they were taking. Walking further ahead there was something on the ground with a circular form, when they passed by it the round thing lifted and it stayed in suspension in the air catching their attention.

"This stone, its-"Vanille started.

"Look familiar?" asked Lightning.

"It's a kind of Cie'th. It's in the last stage" explained Fang.

"A Cie'th…."

"It's not moving or attacking us so that's good" the Uzumaki remembered the Cie'ths they encountered back at the Pulse Vestige.

"Don't worry. It's not a threat to anyone anymore. L'Cie that failed their focus become Cie'th and wander the wilds. Eventually they lost will to go on and turn to stone. But still, even in this state they can't forget the task they once had" said the red head.

"And they call out to l'Cie, over and over: Complete my focus:" finished the Pulsian huntress.

"So they're doomed to eternal regret, huh that's pretty horrible" said Sazh.

"I'll say no one deserves that kind of fate" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Hey we should help this one out. Come on we can't just ignore it. Listen if we fail our focus it could be us suffering like that" said Snow.

"Wow, what a happy thought that's not like you" said the afro haired pilot.

"But going out of his way to help someone that's Snow all over" replied the pink haired soldier

"I agree with him I'm not ignoring this let's fulfill its focus" said the whiskered blond.

"And there's also the smart idiot who will help anyone or anything without thinking about himself" she added with a small smile at the Uzumaki.

"I wonder if there more like it" said Hope staring at the Cie'th stone.

"That's a big possibility there's many more, they will probably be scattered all around Gran Pulse" Fang remember how many of the Pulsians were branded during the war of transgression and how many of them failed to carry out their focus.

"We don't have time and the luxury to be searching for them, can't forget how much time we might have left" replied Sasuke.

"Don't want to act like an emo but he's right" Fang grinned noticing the Uchiha frowned because what she said.

"We have a destination in mind going after other things won't be helpful" replied the former sergeant.

"Oerba righ,t still I wish we could help any other stones we might meet" said the whiskered blond.

"Let's start with this one" Snow pointed to the one behind him.

Touching the Cie'th stone it showed them the focus of the person that couldn't fulfill it. The information said the person was supposed to kill a monster called 'Ectopudding', it also showed the location of the creature the last time was spotted. That has helped the group in locating the monster, which by coincidence the Ectopudding's location was somewhere around this region. The l'Cie group traveled a couple of steps following the directions of the Cie'th stone hoping that they should be able to find the mark to hunt, most were thinking that it doesn't take them too long to find. The thing that bothered them is that they didn't had a clue what the monster looked like, just a brief description that it was colored light blue and it didn't had a specific physical appearance.

Reaching a small pond they were able to see a monster that it was different from the rest, it was similar from the flans but it was ten times bigger than them. It seems it was keeping a low profile to prevent been spotted but the color was enough to draw the attention of the group. Light blue and it was more like a blob like the flan creatures meaning it didn't had a physical form like other monsters. It was a strong feeling that they have found their mark a bit sooner than they thought they weren't taking the chance to let it get away if it meant that they will help the Cie'th stone. They were getting ready for the upcoming fight as they removed their weapons they needed to make sure they were dealing with the rightful monster.

Lightning cast libra on the blue blob creature" it's the target, ectodpudding it's only weakness is lightning base attacks the rest of the damage is halve."

"He's the monster we have to beat so we can help that stone" said Naruto.

"Should we try to get it by surprise or just attack him straight on?" asked Snow.

"Wait" Sasuke has taken his Eidolon crystal.

"I'll handle it."

"By yourself….?" Sazh raised an eyebrow at him.

"This ain't no time to be showing off Uchiha" Fang put her arms on her hips.

"I've wanted to use Hade's gestalt mode for a while."

"Now's a good time to put it to some good use" the Uzumaki agreed with his plan.

"Just wait here, this won't take long."

"Is it all right to let him go on his own?" asked Hope.

"If he gets in trouble we can back him up, though it won't be necessary" replied Lightning.

"Sasuke has everything figure out I'd be more worry for the monster" said the whiskered blond.

The Uchiha has taken Masamune charging at the blob monster not caring if it will spot him. Following Lightning's information on the ectopudding he cast thundara getting its attention, the spell harm it enough. He was fighting the creature on his own deciding to build some chains before summoning his Eidolon while he was doing a good job in holding his own. When the blob monster got the chance to attack the raven haired l'Cie avoided his attacks easy the group watched as the former PSICOM soldier was fighting him, it looked like it wasn't that strong. When he got the chance he used his long sword to attack it, he charged his blade with chidori adding more damage to the monster. For Sasuke this fight was just an exhibition match to test his Eidolon it wasn't that much of a challenge, he felt a bit disappointed.

When he had about enough he finally shattered his crystal summoning the mighty Eidolon. Hades finally emerged from the black circle of fire and chains, ready to bring punishment on his opponent. The match odds were added to their favors as the flan like monster was now outmatch by the raven haired l'Cie and the Eidolon it was getting beaten bad. Hades casted black cauldron giving a couple of debuffs on it while Sasuke build more chains to give him enough time to had fun ahead. The Uchiha ordered the Eidolon to change to his gestalt mode, he transformed into the tank hell's war machine making the former PSICOM soldier grinned as he got inside the vehicle. He gazed down at the controls admitting that there were quite a lot of buttons and levers but nothing he couldn't handle.

The rest of the group stood watching a gestalt mode Hades was going all out on the ectopudding. Firing his Gatling guns, followed by a barrage of missile fire the results turned out that the blob creature looked very beaten up. The Uchiha grinned he followed using the drill of the tank adding more damage to the monster while the group was watching in awe some were starting to feel almost sorry for the creature. After so much humiliation and punishment the ectopudding was taking the raven haired l'Cie chose to finish it off with the Eidolon's strongest attack. Locking on the target he pressed a button firing the underworld tank's main canon, the others had to take a step back shielding their eyes. Firing the main canon has released a powerful dark beam with fire and lightning, hitting the blob monster straight on.

The beam was so powerful it took a chunk of the ground leaving an oversize crater where the ectopudding used to be. The flan like creatures has been reduced to nothing from the sheer of the mighty blast from the look of things anything or anyone can be disintegrated from such an attack. Everyone stood in shock at the power the Eidolon's gestalt mode has to offer, the tank was powerful enough to take on the entire Sanctum military. The Uchiha got off from the war machine before Hades vanished he was grinning, impressed by the Eidolon's performance and power. There was some pride he was feeling for having the lord of the underworld as he's Eidolon, no second thoughts ran to his head he sheathed Masamune walking back to the group.

"Whoa that was…." Naruto was at loss for words.

"I say damn" followed Sazh.

"That monster never stood a chance" replied Snow.

"His Eidolon is really strong" commented Hope.

"Even if he had to destroyed part of Gran Pulse to beat that thing" Fang gave a frown at the crater.

"He still did the job" added Lightning.

"It's done, focus fulfilled" Sasuke was obviously referring to the Cie'th stone.

"Next time how about you don't try to leave a big crater" said the Pulsian huntress in a scolding tone.

"It's no big deal…."

"It is if you take a chunk of Gran Pulse, this may not be your home but it is mine. Try to treat it with some respect during your stay here" she crossed her arms.

"Hn…."

"Okay now that that's been taken care off now what?" asked the NORA leader.

"Which path should we take to go to Oerba?" asked the silver haired teen.

"That won't be easy" said Vanille.

"What do you mean I thought you two would know this place like the back of your hand?" asked the afro haired pilot.

"We do but the path to take that will lead to Oerba is quite far from here. It will take us a couple of days to reach the path to Mah'bara."

"And crossing there will be another long trip" added the red head Pulsian.

"Then we should prepare to camp here during those days" replied the former sergeant.

"Gotcha so we should start looking for some fire wood and a place to camp?" said the blond jinchurikki.

"As well as some food" added the Uchiha.

"Looks like the best thing to do will be to split up and take care of these things" said Sazh.

"All right Vanille you and Sazh can look for a place to camp, make sure it isn't in an area filled with monsters okay?" said Fang.

"Got it we'll pick a good spot" said the red head.

"Hope and I can look for the fire wood right buddy?" Snow patted the teen on the back.

"Sure" replied the teen.

"That will only lead the food I'm sure me and Light-"

"Leave the food to me, I will gather us some real fresh meat" said the Pulsian huntress cutting off the whiskered blond.

"Only you….?" asked the raven haired l'Cie.

"My Sasuke are you worried about me?" the warrior gave a grin.

"No it's reckless for you to go on your own…."

"Fine I'll buy your excuse then why don't you join me in the hunt?"

"There's nothing else better to do, all right."

"Hey what should we do then?" Naruto pointed to the pink haired soldier and himself.

"We'll scout the land further ahead to look for any monsters" said the older Farron.

"Right I'm in!"

"You guys be careful, don't go picking fights. If you see monsters ten times bigger than you do not fight it. Avoid monsters fighting other monsters it's not safe to crash their party, and keep your distance from monsters in packs, they might plan to ambush you" said the tall Pulsian.

"Thanks for the advice mother Fang we'll be fine" said the Uzumaki while Lightning gave a smile finding his comment funny.

"Funny, mother Fang" sweat dropped the Pulsian.

(Time skip)

Sazh and Vanille traveled throughout the area of the central expanse of the Pulsian wide landscape. Carefully the duo were traveling without attracting any monsters they might come across, however they did encountered some creatures in which they couldn't avoid fighting them. Lucky for them the monsters were small like the rangda and a couple of flans, the last thing they wanted were to encounter a bigger enemy. They were strong enough to beat them the last monsters to take out was a goblin which it was no push over given the l'Cie duo some trouble to beat. Both ended up casting strong magic to take it out, with their quick thinking they managed to defeat the green short creature. The rest of the way of their journey was safe after those monsters they didn't encountered anymore Pulsian wildlife.

They smiled at each other it felt like they were traveling together again when they separated from the others when they got branded, at least for Sazh anyway. Only this time they weren't truly alone and they weren't keeping any secrets from the others the afro haired pilot knew who she really is and what she did to his son, but he chose to forget the past and just focus on what he can do right now. He was determined to find a way to save his son he already had help from everyone from the l'Cie group, as far as he was concerned eight l'Cie is better than just one. Vanille has also chose to help him and help themselves too while trying to find the way to save Cocoon from its fate, it was clear they weren't going to follow their focus.

After searching endlessly they spotted a landmark in the distance. The first thing they needed to know if it was in an area where monsters often passes by, they walked closer getting a better glance. It was safe from monsters so far and they saw a couple of rocks formation making them perfect to seat it was already a promising spot because it had a wonderful view of the Pulsian field and Cocoon from above. They finally settle in happy to find a good place for their stay while they resume their journey to Oerba and with all of this before them, it was easy to forget about their brands opening up. They were glad to be alive, l'Cie and all of them believed that everything was going to be all right because they couldn't give up on hope or lose faith.

"There this place will do, what do you think?"

"Yeah this place is good and there aren't any monsters here, we'll be fine" replied the red head.

"Yep now all we have to do is seat by and wait for the others to arrive" the afro haired man got seated in one of the rocks.

"I hope they'll be able to find us, the Archylte Steppe is the biggest area in all of Gran Pulse. Anyone can easily get lost here."

"They'll be fine nothing to worry about it's not like they can't take care of themselves. I'd be more worry for the monsters."

Vanille giggled at his comment as the small Chocobo came flying from out of his afro and started flying around her. She smiled holding the small bird in her hands she has to like playing with him and enjoying his company just like Sazh's she was preoccupied playing with him. The afro haired pilot stood staring at her he was in thought remembering her story of how they turned to crystal and woke up hundreds of years later at the Vestige and eventually arriving at Cocoon. Their journey throughout the city and how they ended causing the incident at the Euride energy plant leading to his son's branded by the Fal'Cie Kujata. The one thing that had him in thought was the part of the red head pretending to have forgotten her focus in order not harm anymore people, eventually she lied to her friend Fang.

"Say, Vanille?"

"Hmm…." the Pulsian smiled turning her attention away from the small Chocobo.

"I'd been wondering. Are you going to tell Fang about-you know' the whole focus thing'?"

"The focus thing…what do you mean?"

"I'm saying about you lying to her, are you going to tell her the truth?"

"Oh-that" her eyes softened at the sudden mention of the topic.

"Didn't mean to bring back some painful memories but I don't know. It's not right to keep something like this from her if she's a close friend of yours, I'm sure she might understand why you chose to lie to her about not remembering your focus."

"…."

"Vanille….?"

"I don't know. I really don't know what to do, I got used to the idea of the lie. It's been so long since we woke up in Cocoon and it started to feel right to keep the truth hidden."

"But you know it's not right, you can't keep this from her forever. You do know sooner or later she will find out that you lied."

"But I don't want to tell her because I know she will get angry at me for lying. Especially when it's about our focus I know Fang better than anyone, she's willing to do anything to find a way to save me. To find out that all this time I've been lying to her that I forgot our focus like her, she will be so upset with me."

"Vanille-"

"I won't tell her I want things to stay like this, she hasn't been suspicious yet so I will remain quiet."

"It's not right, isn't she supposed to be family to you or something?"

"Yes that's why she's close to me but I can't face her about this even if I know that what I'm doing is wrong. By keeping it a secret I'm running away again, rather than facing it face it later…."

Sazh gave a sigh" look kid maybe I should tell you about something that happened to me long ago. Dajh was playing inside of my house while I was cooking I was too busy to focus on what he was doing, and then bad news came. Dajh ended up breaking a ceramic flower vase because he was running around the house, I remember his face clearly he was so scared. He obviously chose to stay quiet but as a father I could tell that he was hiding something from me, and eventually I made him tell me."

"Were you angry at him?"

"Oh hell yeah I was angry with him, that vase cost me a thousand gil. But I know better than yell and get angry at my own son, I lectured him and told him about both things he did wrong. Breaking the vase and keeping the secret and from me and lying too, of course he cried but he learned his lesson. Ever since then Dajh will only tell me the truth and nothing but the truth, he's still a ball of energy thought. My age is catching up to me I can barely keep up with him."

The red head gave a smile" thanks Sazh…."

"I'm not telling you to tell her now, just think about it. Can you really live with yourself with not telling her the truth?"

"….."

"Hey look who came back to be with you?" the afro haired gunner smiled seeing the small Chocobo flying to her.

Vanille smiled seeing the small bird she took it in her hands happily but still Sazh's words were running in her head. She was aware what she was doing is wrong keeping the truth hidden from Fang and lying to her but the fear that she wasn't going to be happy with her was stronger. She kept her smile on the bird before going back to deep thought, keeping it hidden seems to be the right thing to do. She still couldn't shake the guilt she was feeling everything they went through was her fault because she wasn't strong enough. She remained quiet and started playing with the Chocobo while the afro haired pilot just shook his head he already thought that she wasn't going to listen to him, he tried to convince her though.

(Scene change)

In another section of the Archylte Steppe Hope and Snow have been successful in collecting the firewood although they had some complications the duo got busy with some monsters. Some gorgonopsid and goblins they chose to follow Fang's advice because they did ran into big monsters they avoid being spotted by them. This time the NORA leader didn't usually charge in face first without thinking and follow the Pulsian's advice he had his reasons for avoiding confrontations with the oversize creatures. Not just the monsters were bigger and they were obviously stronger but there were only two of them and quite a lot of them, thinking recklessly here would only get them killed. In addition the tall blond chose to look after the teen to make sure he didn't get hurt.

After some assure fighting that they were able to take on the monsters, they gathered enough wood for the camp fire. They will be camping tonight in the Pulsian landscape as part of their journey to reach the village of Oerba and to them due that both are from Cocoon it was an entire new experience. This was a whole new world for them to explore and see its limits both were explores roaming through the strange land, more like they were pioneers as being the first people of Cocoon to be in the Pulsian world in five hundred years. By now all their fears from the crazy rumors they have heard about Pulse have been lifted away from them completely, it was all exaggeration from the fear of the Cocoon people. They were very comfortable been here except for the fact of the ferocious creatures that inhabit the lower world.

The NORA leader took a glance at the young Enstheim he smiled feeling proud for him. He has gone a long way since they got branded, once he was lost in hatred wanting to take revenge on him for what happened to his mother. Now he was a strong, independent person with defying his focus and no hatred towards him realizing revenge was a waste of time. He just recently defeated his Eidolon Alexander and taming his power acquiring a new ally that will help them on their journey. Yet he still felt like it was his responsibility to take care of the teen for Nora's sake and for everyone, Lightning and Naruto were already over protective of him although the pink haired soldier showed it more. No doubt that this journey has helped him grow up and become someone strong, someone that will make his mother proud of.

"I wonder if we have enough" said the teen.

"We have plenty enough to last us a night, I just wonder if Sazh and Vanille has found a spot to camp already."

"We don't even know where they might have camp in."

"Remember what Fang said, the central expanse isn't that over populated with monsters. My guess is that they might have camped somewhere in this area."

"I don't want us to get lost, not here."

"It'll be fine buddy we've been in worse situations before, this is nothing."

"It might take us a while to reach the camp site…."

"Hey let's be positive, isn't it true that we've been through worse right?"

"I guess with the monsters and all" Hope remembered everything that has happened before and after getting branded.

"Exactly let's keep our faith high stop worrying, if we encounter more monsters we beat them like we did those back there."

"You're right I'm worrying for nothing" he smiled resuming the walking with the trench coat blond.

The young Enstheim stopped for a moment looking in deep thought" hey Snow?"

"What's up?" he turned noticing that he has fallen behind.

"I…I-do you think I mean. Once we saved Cocoon and Serah wakes up, you guys are getting married right?"

"That's what I have in mind I told you I want to have a happy family."

"You think you can invite me to the wedding?"

The NORA leader smiled at his question" of course you're invited, everyone from our group will be invited. The more the merrier that's what I always say."

"Thanks, I know I will enjoy it mom has always like weddings" his eyes have softened at the memory of Nora.

"Come on no need to act depress, we still haven't save Cocoon and the wedding hasn't even been plan yet so cheer up okay."

"I know I'll be fine…."

"Listen Hope I'm really sorry for what happened to-"

"Snow give it a rest you already apologize a dozen times I don't hold it against you anymore" the teen smiled no more holding a grudge of hatred towards the tall blond.

"Sorry bad habit I guess" he scratched the back of his head.

"Hey do you see that I think that's the others?" Hope has suddenly seen something in the far distance.

Snow turned to the direction the teen was pointing he noticed a couple of people seated on some rocks. He smiled recognizing Sazh and Vanille even as far as they were he could tell it was them, their l'Cie friends. He was happy to see them at least they won't have trouble finding the camp site spot, they were really lucky. They were the only ones in the camp site meaning the others haven't come back yet they will have to wait a little longer before eating. The tall blond turned to him giving him the signal to go they obviously haven't started the fire because they were the ones to bring the wood. They increased their speed not wanting to keep them waiting any longer they were on time since dusk hasn't set yet, so far their experience in Pulse wasn't so bad.

(Scene change)

"Um Light didn't Fang warned us not to pick a fight with the monsters?"

"Fight now, talk later!"

Naruto and Lightning were in quite a predicament, although they were being careful and following the Pulsian's advice they were in now involved in a tough fight. Both l'Cie have summoned their Eidolons due to the high chances that this fight has become very complicated they were facing off against two Navidon, one flan and one Behemoth king. Odin stood by his master's side the same with Arthur standing next to the blond jinchurikki, even with their Eidolons the odd were against them. They were in a tight pinch and it all happened so sudden, both were traveling as part of their scouting when they were spotted by the wild creatures. They tried avoiding them but it was too late to do so, their only option was obviously to fight.

Naruto and Arthur managed to take out the flans easily since they were the weakest of the monsters. However as it wasn't enough for the former soldiers in the distance came running a pack of wild gorgonopsid, and they all looked quite hungry. All of the monsters were thinking the exact same thing, hungry and they wanted a taste of human food or l'Cie food as Sazh put it. They fought hard with their Eidolons fighting by their side while using their shield when they needed to, defending their master's. But they were aware that by now they were outnumbered and the odds to win the fight were low, they won't be able to escape this mess with their lives. Both looked at each other and gave a nod reading their minds, they all knew what to do.

"Gestalt mode!"

Arthur summoned his knights of the round as they joined together fusing into the mighty giant Eidolon Pendragon. Oding transformed into his stallion form giving a high screech the former sergeant took his double bladed lance splitting it in its double sword mode, she got on facing the creatures while the Uzumaki got into the giant being. He entered inside its controls ready for battle while the pink haired soldier has beaten him as she slash through the pack of gorgonopsid, she followed with using thunderfall. Naruto aided her squashing the remaining small fries before turning his attention to the two Navidon he slashed one after he summoned Excalibur, and cast holy on the second one. After they were beaten both l'Cie turned their attention to the last monster the Behemoth king who looked very hungry, even more than the other monsters both knew this wasn't a creature to take lightly with their past experience fighting other Behemoth creatures.

The Behemoth king charged using its heave attack which both avoided. Naruto charged Pendragon forward attacking with the holy sword, Lightning joined him unleashing flourish steel on the monster. The Behemoth was harmed but not down yet they were going to need more than just melee attacks to beat him, but they needed to hurry their Eidolons didn't had much time before they disappear and return to their crystal forms. They resumed their attacks as the creature seemed to have gotten angry, it got into his two legs and removed his horn revealing to be a saw blade. The Behemoth has become stronger charging at Pendragon using its spinning blade he blocked it with the giant Eidolon's shield.

Lightning perform Zantesuken dealing critical damage while the whiskered blond was concentrating piloting the oversize Eidolon. He thought he was actually fighting instead of controlling Pendragon, his focus made Excalibur shined brightly with light. The blond jinchurikki released the attack using holy strike hitting the Behemoth king the combine force of both strong attacks killed it. Afterwards their Eidolons return back to their crystal forms just in time once the fight was over, both sighed in relief that it was all over. They spoke too soon as they heard heavy footsteps that created echoes throughout the Pulsian landscape, they gazed in the distance and gasped seeing a massive creature that was probably the same size as Pendragon heading their way.

"What the heck is that?"

The former sergeant casted Libra on the creature" it's called Adamantoise and its information is really bad. It's very strong we don't stand a chance against it."

"Fang gave us the warning not to fight monsters bigger than us."

"It's heading towards us."

"We should run…."

"Yes…."

They started running obviously gaining a big lead on the adamantoise due that it was very slow in its walking because of its heavy weight. But things got bad for the two former soldiers they ran ahead only to find a dead end, it only leads to large waterfall. Staring at it no doubt it was a long way down to the bottom and it was out of the question to try and go back with the giant creature going after them. By now it has spotted them and it had no intention of stopping or turning the other way. Both stared at the deep waterfall before turning to the giant creature slowly approaching them, and then back at the waterfall follow back at the adamantoise and forth. Their chances fighting the creature were very low if it was truly strong as mentioned by the pink haired soldier, then again the chances of jumping to the waterfall weren't so bad.

"This isn't good" muttered the blond jinchurikki.

"One way out of this, we won't make it for sure if we fight the monster."

"All it has to do to beat us is step on us with those huge feet, yeah I'm with you. I'm open to any ideas you might have Light…."

"Either we take the risk in fighting it, or…we could give jumping the waterfall a try."

"Not like we have that much of a choice bringing that giant thing down looks like a pain, okay jumping the long way down waterfall it is."

"On three" replied the whiskered blond seeing the adamantoise getting closer to them but it sent one of its feet down causing an earth avalanche.

"What the- what is that?"

"Quake" said the shocked Farron.

"Jump!"

"But we didn't count till three!"

Both l'Cie jumped the long waterfall managing to avoid the earth spell. Both fell on the water that formed part of the waterfall, leading to a river in a bottom like area of the Archylte Steppe. Eventually the adamantoise left since its prey escaped and it wasn't going to be stupid enough to jump after them. From the water emerged Lightning breathing heavily obviously soaked wet, it hit her she quickly noticed that Naruto hasn't come out yet. She looked at all directions not seeing him she got worried, the fear sank in that he was still underneath the water. She was shocked he can drown and, she erased the last part not wanting to bring it to the picture. But just as she was about to dive in the Uzumaki emerged coughing some water that he swallowed, seeing him safe and sound made her feel so relief.

"You're all right…."

"Barely" he replied giving a silly grin.

"Let's get to shore, this water is cold."

"Right don't want to freeze my butt been here for too long."

(Scene change)

(Location: Eastern Tors the Archylte Steppe)

Sasuke was actually looking forward to the upcoming hunt with Fang, it was better than staying back with the others doing nothing. He has never like being bore better assisting the Pulsian huntress hunting a monster instead, although he didn't show his enthusiasm. The Uchiha was following her lead because she was a Pulse born natural she was quite aware of the area and she knew what she was doing, she was trained to be a warrior and a hunter. It felt kind of exciting to be in his first hunt with the Pulsian beauty no doubt their target was strong, he was never afraid to take on a challenge. The former PSICOM soldier was feeling patient understanding that hunting takes time and a lot of patience it wasn't as easy as it looks.

Fang on the other hand was all lively and happy for various reasons. It was her first hunt since she has awoken from crystal stasis and also because the Uchiha was accompanying her, it meant a lot to her. He will be able to witness her hunting skills what she was capable off as a hunter, she will show him why she was the heiress of her clan. Another reason was probably she has never minded to spent time with him due that she has gotten closer to him for a while, building their friendship was rather quick. She smiled at the thought going back to the task at hand gazing at the ground she found what she was looking for she knew well that they were traveling in the right direction. They will be finding their target sooner than she thinks.

"So what's this monster we're looking for?" the Uchiha finally asked the question.

"It's called a Megistotherian this is the most common region of the Steppe to find it. It doesn't travel in packs that gives us an edge in fighting it, and look we're in the right place" she knelt touching the foot prints.

"We're in the right place then…."

"Right, it's probably near so let's be careful from here on."

"Any particular reason why we're going after this monster….?"

"The Megistotherian is among the most common creature hunted by my clan. That's not all we hunt it because its meat it's quite a delicacy."

"We kill one and it will be enough to feed us for a couple of days. We'll be heading out by the time we ran out of its meat."

"Is it strong?"

"It is, its claws and fangs are sharp enough to shred anything to pieces, but luckily for us it's weak against fire another advantage for us."

The raven haired l'Cie nodded resuming following her he knew what she was doing. They traveled for another hour until reaching a small hill leading to a cave. Fang grinned they were in the right place she knew that the Megisotherian likes hiding in dark places, this was the perfect example for them use the cave as a place to live. She gave her hunting companion a sign with her hand showing the location of their target, in which he nodded in return. Slowly they headed towards the cave searching for their prey, and so far they entered the dark place without causing too much noise with their movements. The Pulsian obviously took the lead making sure that her companion was right behind her as soon as they entered the cave it was pitch black they could barely see their hands.

Sasuke thought cleverly he released the fire spell, keeping the flame in his hand so it can give them the visibility they needed. The Pulsian huntress grinned at his quick thinking it will be easier now to track down their prey without worrying of the poor visibility. The cave seemed to be endless at the rate they were going, Fang made the Uchiha stopped when she heard some soft growling coming not too far from their location. She signaled the Uchiha that they were near their target so they needed to be on their guard from now on, they followed with sheathing their weapons. With every step they took the soft growling was sounding closer and any moment their prey might jump on them, probably aware that it wasn't alone.

They got the right location as the Megistotherian emerged facing them no matter how quiet they were entering the cave, it was aware that unwanted guest have come. It was big grey colored and Fang wasn't kidding when she said that it had sharp teeth and claws, they were big and looked like they were sharp as razor. The Uchiha never doubted her they really looked like they could rip anything to mere pieces he was ready to fight holding the flame on his left hand. Fang reacted as she charged at the creature she managed to anticipate its move as she blocked one of its claw attacks. The Pulsian huntress jumped getting on its and raised her lance high in the air she stabbed the monster's back using her super strength. Just like that the Megistotherian fell to the ground dead her attack was too powerful that defeat the creature.

Sasuke stood there blinking a couple of times not believing that the fight was already over before it even started. He thought he was seeing but apparently it was true that Fang defeated the monster with one attack, he sweat dropped thinking of how weak the creature with razor sharp fangs and claws really was. The raven haired l'Cie gave a sigh because he thought he was useless in the hunt what great help he turned out to be to the Pulsian warrior. He was disappointed expecting to give it his all to the Pulsian aiding her well, but the only thing he did was stand and watch as she took down the monster on her own. Even if it wasn't worth his time he really wanted to help her, looks like he failed in supporting her in the fight.

"There the hunt is done" she smiled at the dead Megistotherian.

"Glad to be of some help" replied the sarcastic Uchiha.

"Aw don't feel bad Sasuke you helped me enough with the fire to lite the cavern. Without that it would have been a lot harder to fight it" she noticed his sarcastic tone so she gave him a wink.

The former soldier sighed walking to the dead creature" it looks a little small."

"Nah that's the size of an adult Meistotherian…."

"You sure….?" He suddenly had a bad feeling.

"I'm sure, come on now the hard part comes we have to carry it out of here."

They turned to the sound of a loud growl coming from behind them. They gasped it was another Megistotherian but it was twice as big as the one the Pulsian huntress killed its growl could tell it was very angry. Now the Uchiha knew why he had a bad feeling taking another glance at the dead one which was smaller, before looking back at the angry bigger Megistotherian.

"The mother isn't happy."

Fang was shocked looking at the small dead creature finally figuring her mistake" that was a baby Megistotherian I can't believe I was so stupid not to realize the difference in size…."

The adult Megistotherian charged at Fang but Sasuke released the flame he was holding from the fire spell, he followed casting fira and ardor. The spells were effective as the creature was in pain, the fire was it elemental weakness and the blue fire of ardor was an even greater weakness to the monster. He fired another shot of fira releasing that it was too difficult to fight here due to the darkness of the cave.

"We have to go outside!"

"…"

"Let's go!"

The Uchiha took Fang's hand he couldn't see clearly her face but she seemed to be in deep thought. He had no idea why she didn't reacted when the monster was going to attack her, right now the only thing that matter is to escape the cave and fight the adult Megistotherian outside. It was a good thing that they didn't go that deep inside or they could have been lost and who knows how long it will take them to find the way out. The former PSICOM soldier knew they were near but he heard the sound of footsteps coming at them rapidly no doubt it was the mother of the baby Fang killed. He saw the light at the end of the cave he increased the speed and the Pulsian huntress followed him they were outside escaping the cave, unfortunately the creature was still hot on their trail.

"No choice but to fight it. It won't stop chasing us until it kills us."

Sasuke unleashed more ardor hurting the mother Megistotherian he perform a couple of attacks with Masamune but the monster was still standing on its feet. He was able to understand how tough the monster really is, compared to the baby that it was killed by one attack. As he continued to fight he realized that Fang hasn't moved a muscle since they left the cave, the Pulsian huntress looked like she was still in her deep thought state. He frowned slightly she has picked up the worst time to think, but he had a guess that she was probably feeling bad with herself for her mistake. Now it wasn't the time to be blaming herself for making such a pointless mistake, he was too busy fighting to get her attention. Suddenly the Pulsian warrior has reacted charging at the mother Megistotherian hitting it countless time with her lance.

By now the creature was too weak and probably ready to go down because of all the fire attacks released by the Uchiha. Both l'Cie took the chance to jump ahead of the monster both raised their weapons high the Megistotherian gave a painful scream as both stabbed it. Sasuke stabbed Masamune, the long sword was deep inside its skin while Fang's lance wasn't that deep stabbed. Soon the monster fell to the ground dead both released their weapons before checking on it making sure it was really dead. The raven haired l'Cie gave a grin they ended killing two monsters in this hunt, it wasn't a complete failure just a minor mistake. He cleaned the long sword before sheathing it back he took a glance at the Pulsian huntress who was back into her deep thought.

"This will be enough to feed everyone until we leave here like you said."

"….."

"Fang….?"

She only nodded in return as she resumed with tying the dead monster with some strong vies she picked up before starting the hunt. Sasuke helped her tie the creature up his onyx eyes were on the Pulsian woman wondering what was in her mind, but it was clear what was bothering her. He cursed mentally he was never good with trying to make people feel better when they were having a problem. Let's face it when it came to counseling others Sasuke was terrible at it, especially when the troubled person is a woman. As he helped her tied the Megistotherian he thought of the possibilities of talking to her about what she was feeling right now, not sure whether she will open up to him or not. He might have time to think about it they were quite far from the spot where they separated from the others, and it still was uncertain if by now they have found a camp spot.

(Time skip)

(Scene change)

The other members of the l'Cie group have already set a camp fire since dusk was slowly approaching most of the landscape was already dark as the sun was setting down. With dark arriving the temperature around the Archylte Steppe has lowered which it got chilly they would be having problems resting with the cold weather if it weren't for Vanille. The red head already thought ahead and she got assistance in killing a couple of gorgonopsid and that's when things really interesting. The Pulsian gave Snow, Sazh and Hope a lesson skinning monsters, taking her lessons to deep consideration they paid close attention to her. They all learned how to skin a creature and use it's fur as a coat, the red head knew since she was taught how to do it and the reason why she had a fur pelt wrapped on her back.

It was interesting and educational experience for those who didn't know a thing about skinning monsters. Thanks to the red head Pulsian they will be able to rest without worrying of the cold, also she has helped gathered some food. They helped her gathered some of the same fruits they ate when they arrived at the Pulsian world it will sustain their appetite until the others return. Looking from things they knew the others won't be back for a while and some were getting worried for them, they had an idea how dangerous it was out there with the many wildlife roaming all over the land. Another thought that came to their mind is that they didn't know where the camp spot was located it was obvious it will take them time to arrive.

Sazh was wrapped in his gorgonopsid skin while his Chocobo was all warmed up inside of his afro. Snow was doing the same even with his clothes and trench coat he needed something to protect him from the low temperatures, the camp fire wasn't enough. Hope was also wrapping his monster skin while he stood watching at Vanille, she was the only one who didn't have a skin. She was also the only one who didn't look worried about the others not arriving yet, she looked very clam. It was strange for her to be acting like this compared to when they were at Cocoon that she faked to be all cheery and all smiles when they were in danger. It was starting to get them concern especially the silver haired teen, or maybe she was making another façade.

"I hope everyone gets here, sad part they don't even know we're here" said Sazh.

"They do know we're in the Central Expanse so they don't have to look everywhere for us" replied Snow.

"It's almost dark and they're not here yet. I'm beginning to think they're not coming at all" said Hope.

"Stay positive buddy" assured the NORA leader.

"I agree with Hope, it will get too dark to travel. They're probably camping like us" said Vanille.

"So basically they're going to spend the night away from us, and didn't they volunteer to bring the food?" asked the afro haired pilot.

"It's all right Vanille brought us fruits we can survive tonight with no problem" replied the teen.

"I don't complain about that" the tall blond took a bite from the fresh fruit.

"Don't want to sound like I'm complaining, but I could go for some meat" said afro haired man.

"I'm fine with the fruit. I'm just worry about everyone else" Hope lowered his gaze.

"It will be all right, I'm sure everyone else is safe" the red head put her hand on his shoulder smiling sweetly at him.

"How can you be so sure the entire place is filled with wild monsters, Cocoon is nothing compare to this place?"

"I'm with Vanille on this one, don't worry too much those four can take of themselves. At least I know Naruto, Lightning and Sasuke are fine they used to be soldiers from the Sanctum if you have forgotten" said the trench coat blond.

"And I know Fang will be all right too."

"Aren't you worried about her?" asked the young Enstheim.

"Not at all, she can take care of herself. She knows the Archylte Steppe better than anyone, she used to hunt here with members of her clan" smiled the red head Pulsian.

"See there's nothing to worry about, all we have to do is wait tomorrow" said the NORA leader.

"It will be better if we search for them" added Sazh.

"Yeah thanks for making me feel better" he gave a smile thinking positive that the others were well.

Vanille smiled before she gave a yawn feeling tired" I'm going to sleep now, good night!"

"Goodnight" replied Hope.

"I'll watch over for the night" said Snow.

"I'll take the next turn" said the afro haired gunner.

She smiled getting into a spot on the ground as the silver haired teen went to her and gave her his gorgonopsid skin so she can use it as a cover so she can rest warm. The red head smiled happily at his kind act as she accepted the skin, she lie down happy sleeping better than just resting on the ground without anything. The teen smiled getting seated in his usual spot not realizing Snow was smirking and Sazh looked happy with a hint of amusement in his eyes. The young l'Cie was happy with himself with the kind act he showed towards the red head Pulsian, but it ended too soon. By now he was aware that the available l'Cie members were staring at him making him feel nervous like he did something wrong.

"What is it?"

"It's nothing buddy, you got to admit that was very smooth. Giving Vanille your skin" said the NORA leader.

"I was just being polite it's not all right to sleep with this cold."

"You're right but what you did are positive points from her" he hide his grin.

"Positive points what are you talking about?"

"Come on man don't be like that, he's still young" replied the afro haired pilot.

"What do you mean I don't get it?" asked the confused teen.

Sazh gave a sigh" look he's saying that you're doing well in so far…you know getting the lady to like you."

"Of course she likes me."

"Not like that Hope, you've been doing smoothly with Vanille."

"Give it a rest and just leave him be "Sazh gave a small chuckle.

"What are you saying….I don't" finally his eyes widened in realization to what the NORA leader has been telling him.

"It's nothing like that" he kept his voice down not wanting to wake up the sleeping red head.

"Whatever you say buddy…."

"I mean it I didn't gave her the skin because I like her that way. I mean she's my friend" he replied nervously.

"I didn't say anything what about you Sazh?"

"Hey don't involve me in this."

"See we don't have a problem with you giving Vanille your skin, but it was still a smooth move. You know exactly what to do to make a woman to like you" the tall blond gave a grin.

"Stop that" his face got red.

"It's going to be a long night" the afro haired gunner gave another sigh.

(Time skip)

(Scene change)

It has gotten dark in Gran Pulse and the l'Cie members who are from Cocoon already learned that the lower world gets cold at night. So Naruto and Lightning didn't waste time to make a campfire since they knew they weren't going to reach the others in time, they already brought the fire wood and the fire was done. They were all right after all they have survived and escape an encounter with a powerful Adamantoise, anyone will be feeling quite relief. The small problem they have encountered is falling into a waterfall with the water in low temperatures, and even with the fire they were having a hard time to keep themselves warm. Eventually as former soldiers they already knew what to do in these situations learning from survival tactics.

In this kind of situation when the camp fire wasn't enough they knew of warming their bodies, with each other's. The former GC soldiers have decided to take some of their clothes off to an extent without going to critical level, and even if that was case both were feeling embarrassed. They were together and it was still embarrassing to be next to each other this close with little clothing but they did the next thing after removing the pieces of clothing. They embraced each other so their bodies can warm up to some heat in order to remove the cold they were feeling, adding that both were sneezing with the possibility that they could have caught a cold. So here they were in this situation and in Pulse in the middle of nowhere to make it worse.

Naruto stood wearing only his long cargo pants his exposed chest was pressed by the arms of the pink haired beauty that was his girlfriend. Lightning was only wearing a white tank top with her black shorts, the small pieces of clothing was enough to show the Uzumaki her full figure which he gave it a ten out of ten in his own opinion. He swears that every day she was getting more beautiful than ever and even with this cold and the camp fire, he could feel heat their bodies were creating because of their close proximity. With all of this happening it was hard for either of them not let their hormones kick in and choke them to death, it was truly tempting not take each other into pure infinite intimacy. Basically their hormones along with their naughty side were screaming at them to do it since they were all alone, but still both were quiet tough and they could resist temptation.

They have gotten some shelter beneath a couple of rocks forming a cave although it wasn't really one. The embrace and closeness of their bodies were emitting more heat than they could handle, it was sickening and addictive. Their hormones were acting up it was either both of them were thinking in doing something they won't be regretting. Lightning bit her lip she admitted this was quite hot and erotic, both sharing a fire and embracing each other in almost their undergarments she used all her strength not to moan in anticipation. Naruto was feeling the same way he was doing everything he could not to lose control not to give into temptation or his desire to take the older Farron and show her how much she means to him. Any moment now both will probably lose control and be dominated by their hormones and strong arousal.

"Light….?" The Uzumaki was able to break from his hormonal control.

"Hmm…." likewise the former sergeant broke away from her arousal and ignoring the fact that she was wet in a certain part of her female body.

"Do you think the others are all right?"

"Most likely they are, Sazh and Vanille probably found a good spot to spend the night. Snow and Hope are probably with them and Fang and Sasuke must've brought the meat by now."

"Thought so nothing to worry about then" he smiled happily to hear her opinion.

"Nothing to worry about at all, we'll meet up with them tomorrow at dawn."

"Even if we don't know exactly where we are" chuckle the whiskered blond.

"Guilty I guess I kind of forgot Fang's warning not to wander off too far."

"I'm fine with it this has turned out to be quite the scouting mission, I kind of saw it as our first date in Pulse."

"Date?" she turned to him with a bewildered expression.

"Yeah we spend time together and we're spending a night together too, isn't that what a date is all about?"

"Getting spotted by monsters, fighting them, running from a giant strong monster, jumping a waterfall and camping with our bodies freezing to death don't know if that counts as a date."

"I only saw it as the fun part of the date" he gave a silly grin.

"You're weird Uzumaki" she gave a small smile.

"Maybe I am but you still like me anyway, and we're not that cold as long as we have the fire and we're like this" he hold an incoming blush.

"True it will take a while for our clothes to dry off" she glance at the rest of their GC clothes next to them.

"They might be dry by tomorrow but at least we won't have to worry about sleeping in the cold."

"We have enough heat until tomorrow" she leaned her head going back to feel the warm embrace.

"By the way Light-"

"Claire…." she agreed with him that he will only call her by her childhood name when they were alone like this.

"Right forgot about it. Anyway I found this on the ground I think it must have fallen from you when you were taking off your clothes" he showed her a small piece of folded paper.

"That's…." she was able to recognize it her eyes were bit wide surprised she never saw it falling when she was stripping from her Guardian Corps attire.

"What is it?"

"A sheet of paper…."

"I know but if there's something written on it?" he sweat dropped at her answer.

"There is, go ahead open it and read it I don't mind."

"Is it personal?"

"You can say that, I'm giving you permission to read it."

"Okay…."

He started opening it, the sheet was folded in many pieces it took him a couple of seconds to open it completely" dear Naruto, you're an idiot so I like you….okay…."

"What is this?"

"What does it sound?" the pink haired soldier was hiding her grin.

"Looking at it, it looks like some kind of love letter."

"It's a confession letter I wrote to you."

"You wrote this for me?" he blushed suddenly feeling embarrassed.

"I did" it was hard not to get embarrassed for admitting it.

"Wow…." He resumed reading it.

"You're stupid but caring, you're loud and annoying but I like you….okay" he sweat dropped at the silliness behind it.

"Something wrong?" by now the older Farron was grinning a little.

"Um…well not to whine I like the letter but the way it's written, it sounds um-"

"Childish….?"

"Yeah that's what I was going to say."

"I suppose it sounds childish I wrote it when I was fourteen."

"Wow that long huh?" he was surprised.

"I was never good at admitting my feelings, I didn't know how to express myself when it comes to this thing" she was obviously referring the thing called' love'.

"You've been keeping it all along?"

"I saw it as a reminder that I was never good at it."

"You did your best and that's enough for me. I'm actually happy that you wrote a letter for me, I could never be able to do that. I'm worse than you when it comes to the whole 'feelings' thing either.

"Even if it's childish….?"

"Especially if it's childish I don't care I really like it now let's see where was I" he resumed reading it.

"You're dumb but you have a good heart, your whiskers are cute" he blushed again.

"No one has ever said that about my whiskers before."

"I think it's true" she turned her head away frowning with a slight blush on her cheeks.

"You're always sacrificing yourself for others it's stupid but kindhearted, always too happy for your own good, it's irritating but it gets addicting. You annoying attitude makes me happy, I find you incredibly sexy-"

Lightning's eyes turned to the size of saucers as she quickly snatched the letter away from the Uzumaki. She felt so stupid she couldn't believe she actually let him read such a personal letter. As he continued to read it, everything came back to her remembering how embarrassing it sounds she knew her face was flushed. The only thing that came to her mind was to get rid of the evidence and destroy the letter that reveals her feeling for the whiskered blond. She folded the letter into a tiny ball and put it back into her red pouch, maybe later she will get rid of it. She gave a sigh knowing well that Naruto was probably smirking at her for her act, and he was aware that she was embarrassed beyond words. There was no way she was going to let him read the letter furthermore she was going to make sure of it.

"I thought you didn't mind if I read it" she was right he was smirking.

"Well I do mind now" replied the embarrassed Farron.

"Its okay can do anything about it, it's your letter after all but I got enough from it to know how much you care for me" the smirk hasn't escape from his lips.

"Tch…."

"Thank you Claire for writing it, it means a lot to me. More than you can ever know" he smiled at her and that smile showed a lot of gratitude for her.

She smiled feeling so happy that he likes it" honestly I didn't have a clue what I wrote at first. I only thought about you and the words began to flow."

"You did a great job and since you find me sexy I also find you sexy too."

"I didn't mean to write that part, it was a mistake" she acted stubborn.

"If it was a mistake you would have corrected it, but it still there" he gave another smirk.

She mumbled something inaudible before the blond jinchurikki pulled her closer smiling" you're an idiot…."

"You still like me and I thought you were going to call me smart idiot from now on."

"Old habit I can't get rid of" she smiled.

They chose to stay quiet as a small silence fell between them their eyes were on the camp fire. Lightning has suddenly lost the happiness she was feeling after hearing Naruto's words of gratitude for her confession letter when a thought crossed her mind. Something that she witnessed that made her the opposite she was feeling a few minutes ago, enough to show so much grief and sorrow in her aqua eyes. The whiskered blond hasn't noticed yet still staring at the fire but eventually he did, when he turned to gaze at her. He was a bit taken back that she looked sad after he made her so happy at his honest words to her letter and that he thought she was sexy too. He broke the embrace taking a long glance at her something was really wrong with the former sergeant.

"Claire….?"

"Hmm what….?" Her tone sounded so sorrowful.

"What's wrong you went from smiley to looking emo?"

"You better not be comparing me to Sasuke" she gave a frown.

"I didn't say anything of the sorts."

The pink haired soldier gave a sigh her eyes turned to the fire" I remember something from last night."

"Last night?"

"Last night…I had a dream about Serah."

"Oh" his cerulean eyes softened mentioning the younger Farron now he knew it was a sad topic when her sister was mentioned.

"She was calling out to me, trying to reach me. I went to her calling to her too but she didn't listened, her face she was so sad. I tried asking her what was wrong but she only kept calling to me, I noticed she was in tears. It hurt me so much to see her like that I don't know what it means."

"Hmm…I may not be a dream interpreter but I have a feeling what your dream could mean."

"Really….?" She was surprised to hear that.

"Serah was calling to you and she was sad. I think that maybe it has to do with you feeling guilty for what happened at your birthday party."

"Guilty….?"

"You're very familiar with the word Claire. Your blaming yourself for what happened to her at your birthday party, that because you didn't believed her and you shunned her away that is your fault that she ended up being captured by the Fal'Cie and she ended up a crystal."

"But it was my fault" she whispered.

"You see this is what I'm talking about you're still feeling guilty for what happened back then. I think your dream is about Serah not wanting you to feel guilty anymore and by continuing blaming yourself she's sad over it. I think it breaks her heart to see you blaming yourself for something you had no control over."

"Naruto please be honest with me. Tell me if I hadn't done what I did to her do you think she would have been taken away by the Fal'Cie and become a crystal?"

"No she wouldn't have gotten captured by the Fal'Cie."

"You see this is why it's my fault" she lowered her gaze while tightening her right wrist.

"Serah may have not been taken away by Anima but aren't you forgetting the Purge?"

"The Purge….?" She couldn't believe she actually forgot the incident that took so many lives of innocent Cocoon citizens.

"Even if you wouldn't have said those words to her if the Fal'Cie didn't took her all of us would have been taken away to the Purge train. All of us would have been involved in the Purge and who knows that instead of turning to crystal, something worse could have happened to Serah like….you know what I'm getting at."

"…."

The Uzumaki gave a sigh he made the pink haired woman to look directly into his eyes" Claire if you keep blaming yourself than you'll be hurting Serah do you want to continue hurting her?"

"Of course I don't want that!" she quickly replied hurting her again was the last thing she ever wants.

"Then stop feeling guilty about it okay it's that simple. Forget about what happened in the past it's gone and it's not coming back. Let's give attention to the present and focus in saving Serah and Cocoon, if you want to when she wakes up you can apologize to her."

"Yes that's what I want. I want to tell her how sorry I am for what happened I should have never said those cold things to her, I should have believed her and trusted her more she's my little sister."

He hugged her" and I'll be there to support you when you need me, all of us will support you too. Don't know about Sasuke though."

She chuckle at the last part accepting his warm embrace" Naruto I-thank you…."

"No need to thank me I'm always happy to help you Claire."

"I'm so lucky to have him…I'm so happy that he loves me."

As she hugged him back she truly felt grateful to have met him that he entered her life when she needed someone who will always stay by her side. Through good and bad, for better or worse the whiskered blond has always chosen to stay by her no matter what. Even if she wasn't the best choice to have for a friend with her attitude, or best choice to have for a girlfriend but in his own opinion he thought she was perfect. She kept asking herself why he likes her what did he saw in her to like her so much, she still didn't know the answer to that question. But she was going to find out one way or the other as she was following her feelings, taking the path that she has chosen from her heart. As they broke the hug they were staring into each other's eyes admitting how beautiful they are, this moment was so perfect for them to share together.

"Claire…." The blond jinchurikki noticed she cupped her hands to side of his face.

No words needed to be say from the former sergeant she only perform the action as she pulled him closer and capture his lips with her, in probably the most passionate kiss she can ever give him. The whiskered blond was shocked but none the less he kissed her back in the same passion once he was brought back to reality that she was kissing him again. It was still hard for him to get used to the kisses getting the big picture that he was in a relationship with the pink haired soldier. Soon their kiss was turning more passionate and wilder as they got closer to deepen the kiss, both were moaning in their mouths. Lightning made the next move as she added her tongue begin for entrance which the Uzumaki accepted opening his mouth letting his tongue have a friendly war with the older Farron's.

The pink haired soldier wrapped her arms around his neck while the whiskered blond wrapped his arms around her wrist this was probably the first time their bodies were so close together. Naruto groaned lustfully feeling her breasts pressing on his bare chest it was such amazing feeling he was already aroused as well as certain part of his male anatomy has reacted drastically. He wasn't the only one Lightning was feeling those effects ever since she kissed him her body was hot and she was wet none of them were thinking of stopping. Due of the lack of air both sadly broke the kiss and the blond jinchurikki was now on the ground with the pink haired beauty on top off him in a very intimate position. Lightning's expression was filled with passion and lust she wanted to take it a bit further.

Naruto was shocked seeing his girlfriend lifting her tank top revealing to him her D cup breast. He felt a certain part of his body reacting again at the arousing view he had to bit his lip from the pleasure he was feeling. Her breast weren't too big but they weren't too small either, they were in the perfect balance size to go with her body. By now he was fully in control by his hormones and got up as he started kissing her very wild and passionate making the former sergeant moaned his name between kisses. Both were using a lot of tongue action while the older Farron has begun to grind her hips with the blonds, she moaned since she was seated on his lap she was poked between her legs by something hard and she was very aware what it was.

"Claire" he moaned with so much desire and passion.

Lightning only moaned in full approval of his actions the whiskered blond has broken the kiss, so that he could do other pleasurable things to her. He moved lowered and starting giving a trail of kisses all over her neck causing her to moan a little louder. The feeling was out of this world every single sensation was making her body shiver from the pleasure and she didn't want this end, she only wished it will last forever. Once he was done with her neck, his second stopped was her breast he was able to see her l''Cie brand slightly on top of her chest, looking almost open like an eye the same form as his brand. Gently he touched the left breast caressing it softly his index finger played with the nipple enough to make it get erected.

The pink haired woman gave another moan showing the Uzumaki that she was truly enjoying his actions. While his finger was playing with the nipple the blond jinchurikki turned his attention to her twin he got closer and slowly he kissed and licked the nipple of her right breast. He took the entire nipple if his mouth while the older Farron was still moaning losing control that has increased the volume of her moans. And so Naruto was enjoying himself playing and pleasuring the pink haired beauty's breasts, he left one breast unattended to resume exploring her body. He reached her nice flat stomach and caressed her soft skin he grinned seeing her naval piercing which he admitted it makes her look sexier.

"Naruto…." She moaned after she licked her lips she pulled him closer not wanting to let him go.

The Uzumaki has changed he was now licking her other breast but that was enough as he was satisfied pleasuring her chest. He was started kissing her stomach as his hand reached her butt giving them a nice squeeze in which the former sergeant didn't minded, she actually like it with the moan she made. He resumed doing those ministrations but Lightning was feeling a bit left out her hand reached his belt buckle and unclipped it. She followed with unbutton his cargo pants, at least the front part exposing his orange boxers it was his favorite color after all. The one thing that shocked her was the large tent that has formed in underpants it was truly an impressive size. The sight of it aroused her even more, she wanted some of that.

She went far enough to touch the tent which surprised the whiskered blond a lot he gave a groan feeling her hand touching it through the fabric of his boxers. But suddenly he thought that this wasn't the right time to do this and as much as he wanted to show his love to the pink haired woman, this didn't felt right. He was having second thoughts of doing this why he was wondering maybe because they were in the middle of nowhere in Pulse and they didn't have a clue where the others were not to mention the mood wasn't right, he really felt like an idiot for having second thoughts after going this far. He stopped his ministrations making Lightning to back off in surprise while both were panting from their incomplete intimate session.

"Claire….wait we can't."

"What?" she panted her entire face was red.

"Listen I know this sounds very stupid but right now I…I don't think this is the right thing to do. I mean look at where we are and with our current situation."

He waited for her answer and for her reaction. At first she looked disappointed that he stopped because so far he was being amazing, but afterwards her expression seems to be one that holds understanding. She stood in deep thought while the Uzumaki was praying that she doesn't get angry and she might beat him up for stopping such an intimate and romantic moment. But she didn't seem to be upset with his lame excuse not to go further he understood that she will be disappointed like him, and apparently he wasn't the only one. Someone was very upset with him the blond jinchurikki heard growling in his head and he knew the only thing that could do that in his mind, he didn't felt like talking to him.

*It's bad enough to know that you're my container but this. This is worse than an insult you refuse to mate with this human, truly pathetic.*

"Go away fox I'm not in the mood to put up with you I'm talking to Claire here."

*Look at her your vixen wants to mate with you badly why do you have to let go such an opportunity, unless if you're a pussy.*

"Shut up fox!"

*Stop acting like a pussy and start nailing pussy!*

"I'm not talking to you."

*Have you forgotten the mechanics of mating maybe you need some lessons in how to nail a vixen's hatch?*

"Like you're going to give me lessons please I already know how it works."

*You're still a pussy.*

(Show some respect to Naruto you beast) Arthur appeared in front of his cage.

*I don't show respect to no one tin brain!*

(You foul mouth beast, if Naruto makes the decision that now is not the time to be one with his lady then you should respect his choice).

*I won't show respect to no one or anything so spare me your bullshit talk.*

(Such a beast will never understand the power concept that is 'love').

"Please stop both of you, you're going to give me a headache" the whiskered blond started rubbing his forehead.

"Naruto….?" said Lightning.

"Huh oh Claire look I'm sorry about this, I mean I really want to do this believe me. It's just that-"

"You want our first time to be special, I feel the same way too I understand."

"You do?" he was shocked not expecting her to agree with him.

"It's all right no need to get nervous we can't forget where we are and our situation. Now's not the time for such things" she pulled down her tank top covering her breasts once more.

The blond jinchurikki gave a frown he wanted to continue staring at her boobs, he buttoned his pants and clipped his belt back" that's not fair at least I have her boobies recorded in my mind. I finally know how exactly they look like, it was different from that time I accidentally entered the bathroom when she was showering."

"We should get some rest we'll wake up early to find the others."

"Right…."

"I'm still aroused" both thought in unison as they embraced each other falling asleep.

(Scene change)

It was indeed a quiet night in the Pulsian landscape of the Archylte Steppe. Mostly all the monsters would be resting calling it a quits for the day in surviving the vegetation planet. It was truly quiet especially when it came to Sasuke and Fang, both l'Cie have found a nice spot to camp and spend the night. They stood over the fire with no words to say next to them stood the dead Megistotherian that both of them killed to cook it for every one of the group can eat. Although that will have to wait at least until tomorrow when they will go searching for the others knowing that they will stay at the central expanse region. However this night was too quiet for a certain Uchiha who looked to be more irritated than calm at the silence of the night.

Sasuke gave a soft sigh before turning his gaze towards Fang the Pulsian huntress hasn't said a word since her mistake with the Megistotherian. He knew she was feeling terrible with herself after all he had a good idea why she was so quiet, obviously blaming herself for making the mistake in not telling the difference between a baby Megistotherian from an adult. And it was more than just that as a member of an elite clan he knew the consequences of making a mistake like that, it would hurt anyone's pride. The raven haired l'Cie knew very well about pride especially when it's about the pride you feel for being part of a clan. It hurt very much to have your own pride crush it makes you feel inferior, and unworthy to be a member of the clan especially if you were an heir or an heiress.

Turning his gaze at the young woman she was still quiet in deep thought staring at the fire. It annoyed him so much to see her like this Fang was never the quiet type, she looked like she was a complete different person. He didn't like it not seeing her acting like herself it was driving him crazy to see her like this, blaming herself for something that wasn't her fault. He chose not to blame her for what happened he saw there was nothing wrong because in the end they managed to kill the mother Megistotherian so everything was all right. He needed to do something because he couldn't take it anymore it was driving him crazy that she wasn't saying a word. Even someone like the Uchiha had his limits to staying quiet for too long.

"If father was still alive he will be so disappointed, but then again he was always disappointed in me."

"Fang….?"

"….."

"Fang….?"

"…"

"This isn't working" he sighed he needed to do something else to get her attention.

"I'm going to regret saying this…."

"Hey I'm talking to you bitch."

SMACK!

"What did you just called me?" glared the Pulsian huntress at the Uchiha with a big lump on his head.

"It worked" now he was starting to get a headache.

"You better start explaining why you called me that Uchiha, before I give you more" the Pulsian was cracking her knuckles ready to smack him down.

"Finally got your attention…."

"What?"

"It was the only way to get you out of your thinking."

She blinked before she chuckle" you're really a fool Uchiha sorry for not saying a word."

"What's wrong?" he already knew what was bothering her.

"Not feeling well…."

"Feeling like talking about….?"

"It's nothing really…."

"To keep you so quiet until dusk it must really be something."

"I'm not feeling well."

"You can say that again" no need to be smart to know something was wrong with her because staying quiet for a long period of time wasn't the Pulsian huntress at all.

"It's about the monster….?"

"It's the only thing in my mind."

"Why are you bothered with that we killed the damn thing?"

"After finding out it was an adult, my mistake could have risked our safety."

"So what we killed it?"

"You don't understand" she turned to him looking upset.

"Then tell me and maybe I will understand too."

"I made a mistake Sasuke, I mistook a baby Megistotherian with an adult one. When you're hunting in Gran Pulse one little mistake can cause your life, like the one I made."

"None of us got hurt we beat the thing with ease."

"You're not listening" he growled.

"You're pissed off because you made a silly mistake."

"A silly mistake!" she got up glaring at him while he was shocked.

"I shouldn't have made that silly mistake not me. I'm supposed to be the heiress of the Yun clan making such a mistake is unbearable not tolerated to be made by someone who will be the future head of a clan."

"I understand how you feel."

"No you don't, what is done is done I guess I'm not a good hunter as I thought."

"Would you stop whining like that, just because you made a mistake it doesn't make you unfit to be a hunter like everyone was perfect. Even the ones who are considered prodigies make mistakes" his onyx eyes glared thinking of a certain older Uchiha.

"Not in my clan it's very different. I always thought I have become stronger than expected but in the end I'm still a mistake."

"…"

"I realized that after I made that silly mistake I'm not perfect Sasuke I know that. But there are no exceptions in the Yun clan, making a mistake like that is not accepted in my clan."

"What happen Fang?" his eyes were filled with concern he suddenly felt like he was looking into his past.

The Pulsian huntress stood quiet in thought as she spoke the words and after the Uchiha's question, it came back to her. Memories from the past the times of peace and the times of her childhood in her village, they were supposed to be the best of times of her life. But that's not what she experienced to her a happy normal childhood never existed she didn't get the chance to play with other kids or simply have fun like any other child would. Memories that were meant to be happy were filled with hardships, sorrow, sweat and pain she learned growing up in her clan was nothing easy. She didn't complain but if she decides to share this information with Sasuke, it will mean to bring back old wounds that were still present within her and even outside.

"Fang….?"

"It wasn't easy being part of my clan, the training was strict. If you fail then in other's eyes you weren't worth the effort to be train as one of us you will be looked down. In my clan failure wasn't an option."

"…." his onyx eyes were on her listening to every words she was saying.

She gave a smile that was a façade hiding the grief she was hplding inside" my father was a very strict man who only expects nothing but perfection especially if the person is his own blood, couldn't blame him he was the head of the clan after all. Such a shame that I came along…."

"Why would you say that?"

"Well…."

A six year old Fang fell on the ground as a result of failing as part of her daily training. She was a wearing a blue attire, with a skirt and short open sandals, she was holding her red lance which it was too big for her, the small girl was panting from the intense training. The setting was a wide landscape outside of the village of Oerba there was plenty of space and there was no one around, it was the perfect spot for some hard training. She resumed her panting gazing over at her teacher a man in his early thirties with raven dark hair, dark bear with dark green eyes, wearing a black leather attire with black leather long bracelets. On his left shoulder stood the dark green tattoo the symbol of the Yun clan.

The man was obviously a member of the clan that belongs to the strong hunters of Gran Pulse. His weapon was a long lance that had many sharp blades on both sides it was different from Fang's weapon, in both color and the shapes of the blades. But the lance looked fearsome and powerful not to mention it looked quite heavy, but the man was able to hold it like it was as light as a feather. His expression was serious, calm and collected his eyes were only on the little girl before him. He didn't like what he was seeing so far in the training the girl wasn't doing well or as he was expecting, behind his eyes there was the feeling of disappointment in them. His thoughts were endless that this girl wasn't strong enough to show the potential he's looking for.

"Again Fang get up."

"Yes…."

The young Yun clan member could barely lift her lance fully so she was already at a disadvantage against the strong teacher. She tried charging at him but she clumsily tripped hitting the ground hard, she tried not to cry as she hit her left knee causing a small burn. She got up feeling burn trying to continue with the training, but it was useless she couldn't fight like this. But she refused to show this man that she couldn't go on this was her chance to show him that she has what it takes to go through this training. She readied her lance but her teacher didn't looked interested in continuing with the session, it was already over since it started that was his opinion he lowered his lance leaving his fighting stance.

"That will be enough for today Fang we're going back to the village."

"But father I can still continue!" protested the young Yun.

"How many times have I tell you that as long as we're in training you will refer to me as' master' are we clear?" her father gave a frown.

"Yes fa-I mean master."

"Good."

The head of the Yun clan went to her kneeling taking a closer look at the burn on her knee" it's only a small burn but you won't be able walk straight for a couple of days, your mother has a well disinfectant for that burn."

"This won't stop me from resuming the training. I want to become strong like you someday" she smiled brightly.

"…"

(Weeks later)

They were having another training session only this time it seemed Fang was doing some small progress. She was still having difficulty using her lance right but she managed to blocked some of the attacks from her father, but she still had ways to go before becoming a full strong Yun clansman. She used a horizontal swing which the older Yun avoided easily, he countered with a jab from his lance sending the young Yun into the ground. As she got up she gasped as she proceed to block an attack from her teacher, she wasn't strong enough to fully block it. She fell to the ground again ignoring the pain facing her opponent by now she could barely hold her lance yet she was still determine to make some good progress in the training.

"Your choice of defense is poor the same with your choice of offense."

"I'm sorry master I promise I'll do better next time."

"We'll start from the top are you ready?"

"Ready!"

Sasuke stood listening to her story of how she started her training as member of the Yun clan. He admitted it was really hard, her bloodline may be her super strength but she still needed the proper training to fight. He felt a bit jealous her father actually trained her unlike his father, Fugaku never paid attention to him he focused more on Itachi than on him. He chose the prodigy over the one who looked weak to the clan, more like a burden he understood what the Pulsian huntress was going through. Somehow he felt like he could connect with her since they were both from a clan and both lost their entire family, and both were engulf in the hatred of revenge. Turning to the Pulsian her face showed a lot of emotion, there was a lot of sadness in her green eyes.

"I train hard to be strong like him that's what I told him. My goal was to make him proud of me…."

"You wanted him to acknowledge?"

"That's a better way to put it, yeah that's right. It's the most common thing a child would do to his parent when they are being train to become the next head of a clan."

"I know exactly how you feel more than you know" the Uchiha thought of his father.

"During my training things got complicated, the more time I spend with my father the more I began to realize something was wrong with him. I suddenly noticed the way he was always looking at me, I could tell that he was disappointed in me but it was more like he didn't like me."

"He didn't like you….?" The Uchiha blinked surprised.

"Two years after I started my training, just a couple of months after I turned eight. I found out why he didn't like me why he was so disappointed in me."

"…"

Fang was running after she finished school for the day she smiled running through the streets of Oerba. It was another beautiful day in the Pulsian village with the villagers doing their usual work while clan members were doing others things most of the people were ready to import food to other villages as part of their economic trade. The young Yun spotted members of her clan they were gear up and ready to go obviously to a hunt, they needed to take the train in order to travel deeper into the region of Gran Pulse. Soon she reached the Yun clan district and arrived at her house since she was the daughter of the head of the clan, her house was the first one in the first row. She was so happy wanting to tell some good news to her parent that she got a good grade in a test.

"So how is Fang doing with the training?"

The little girl recognized her mother's voice as she decided to hear from the front door of the house.

"She's not progressing, in two years I haven't seen any good results with her."

Her eyes widened at her father's harsh words she felt heartbroken especially when she thought she was doing a good job so far, looks like she was wrong all along.

"Give her time Kain she will become better."

"I don't see her getting better only worse. She's just too weak my patience is growing thin with her, I tried hard in turning her into the next head of the clan but she doesn't have the potential."

Fang lowered her head as her eyes were wide from the shock she couldn't believe she was hearing this from her father and teacher.

"Please dear don't say those things, I can tell that she's trying really hard to meet your expectations. Give her a chance."

"I have given her two years and so far she's not showing the progression I was hoping for, this shouldn't have happened in the first place she….it would have been different if it was a male-"

"Enough Kain I don't want to hear this, you shouldn't think like that!" shouted the enrage female.

"You know I'm right Phaidra male members of the Yun clan are the only exception of true power and brute strength, they are the ones with the potential to become the best warriors in all Gran Pulse, it is not the same with female members."

"Rethink your words Kain you're just pushing her away because of her gender, it doesn't matter I love her, the same she's my child and yours too!"

"Stop…she's not my child…."

"You're going shun her is that it?"

"I want a heir not a heiress, I want the Yun clan to reclaim its age of glory like my grandfather did and he's father before him. But with Fang I won't be able to reach glorious golden age I'm striving for."

"It's always pride and honor to you than your own family, how can you treat your own child like that?"

"I told you she's not my child she's…a mistake."

By now the little Fang was feeling so heartbroken that she was in tears she tried not to sob because her parents would hear her. She did the best thing to do she ran from her home without stopping, going further away. She ended up tripping because she wasn't concentrating on where she was running, she sobbed hard after finding out the truth of how her father feels towards her. The pain she was feeling was beyond terrible and when she really cares for him the only thing she wanted was to become as strong as him so she can make him proud when she becomes the next head of the clan. Her tears never stopped falling she knew after this nothing was going to be the same her life has been changed forever.

Sasuke tightened his fists in anger after hearing the reason why Fang's father didn't like her, and why he was always disappointed in her. He was really angry and soon he started thinking of the past she was in the same position as himself with his father, although it was a bit different. Fugaku only paid attention to Itachi because he was the prodigy of the Uchiha clan while he wasn't the same, just someone who couldn't meet up to his standards and didn't accept him as someone who has potential to become head of the clan. She didn't deserved any of this she was just another proud member of the clan who wanted to make her father proud of her and becoming a promising future heiress. He really felt for her and he was showing sympathy for the Pulsian woman, they truly had a lot in common.

"Because I was born a woman my father thought I was a mistake, not worth of training. Not worth of being a future head of the clan, I was nothing but a disappointment to him."

"I'm sorry" it was all he could say.

"After finding out how he felt for me I realized that my training with him was for nothing and that my existence was a mistake, just like my father thought. I got desperate I wanted him to care for me and be proud of me, I needed his attention. I realized he would only show respect and affection for me if I was a man, that's what he truly wanted a boy an heir."

"I know the hardships of going through just for the sake to gain acknowledgement from your father" once again Sasuke's thought were on his father.

"It's ironic I never realize before but that was the reason why he'd named me Fang, because he was expecting a boy. Too bad I disappointed him being born from the opposite gender."

"That's not your fault."

"Back then I didn't believe it. Ever since then I started to change myself, I thought if I acted more manly then maybe he will start respecting me. I walked more like a man, I started challenging other kids my age to arm wrestling contest, I practice my spitting that it was exactly like a man does, and even drinking like a man but that didn't happy until I was a little older."

"That's the reason she always acts so tough with no fear in her eyes. She must have gotten used to behave like a male of her clan it has become a custom to her."

"But it wasn't enough was it?"

"It didn't matter how much of a man I would act, it didn't changed his opinion of me. A mistake is only meant to make mistakes and for everyone I made…."

The Uchiha gazed as the Pulsian huntress touched the two scars on her right shoulder it give him the clear idea" did he did that to you?"

"For each mistake I made the first one I won't argue because I asked for it, I disobeyed my father's orders. I should have known better than to go against the word of the head of the Yun clan. But the second scar I would never forget it I didn't earn it, I was doing the right thing."

"Something serious?" that was the only guess in Sasuke's mind.

"You can say that. It happened four years ago during the initiation of the clan, it's tradition before a new member joins the ranks of the clan when he or she turns ten they must prove themselves to be worthy. Father held the test to one of my cousins Firion was the one to take it, but it wasn't an easy test but truly a difficult one. It consisted in for the one to take the test to be able to land a hit on a Long Gui."

"Long Gui….?"

"Only the most powerful creature in all Gran Pulse it takes a squadron of our strongest members to be able to defeat it. Father brought his squad to provide Firion the back up so he could get the opening to land the blow but fate has its ways for things to never go according to plan."

"You wanted to go….?"

"I was there, but I shouldn't have been there. Father told me not to go because I will get in the way" her green eyes showed more grief as she remembers the day.

The Archylte Steppe heard the loud cries of the feral creature that was able to be heard throughout the entire field. The gigantic creature known as the Long Gui has acted to defend himself against the attackers that he spotted it, running away was never in the monster's nature. He was bigger, powerful but he also had a strong sense of pride for being the most powerful creature in the lower world. Before him stood a total of ten well-armed warriors of the Yun clan each holding their prefer weapon of choice, some were holding spears others axes and among them was Kain holding his lance that was passed down from generation to generation in the clan. Next to the leader of the clan stood the young boy Firion holding a mace wearing the usual Yun black and blue leather attire.

Kain gave orders to the squad to surround the massive creature rapidly before it reacts to attack while Firion stood next to him he was doing his job to protect the youth. The warriors have charged at the Long Gui attacking his long legs with haste, disabling them will make the monster to fall down giving them the edge needed to defeat it. The Yun clan leader stood calm waiting for the right opportunity to give young Firion the signal to move in and land the blow he patiently waited for his men to beat his legs. But the Long Gui wasn't going to stay still forever he raised one of his legs causing the ground to shake like it was an earthquake. The strong tremor hit the warriors as they all fell to the ground hurt, Kain was shocked defeat wasn't an option in this test.

"Stay strong mates use defense when necessary!"

The head of the clan kept watching as his men were resuming attacking the creature's legs. He couldn't bear to watch his brothers fighting while he wasn't doing anything, but his important task was to protect Firion, keep him safe for the duration of the test. He was going to make sure to give the monster his share of punishment before this was over, as he watched he smiled one of the Long Gui's legs have been taken out. If they take out another one the giant monster will lose balance and fall down and once that happens they will have the advantage to beat it for sure. It was almost time to join the battle and fulfill the test, although the youth looked more determined and focus than the older Yun.

"Come Firion let's get closer to the fight, are you ready to become a full member of the Yun clan?"

"Ready!" replied the ten year old.

The leader of the clan ran with the youth closely next to him however the Long Gui cast quake invoking an earth avalanche, all of the clan members were caught in the elemental assault. Kain immediately reacted with protecting the boy but he was hit by the quake spell. He got hurt protecting him but the test wasn't over as the young Yun saw the chance to land the blow that will make him a member of the clan. His eyes were on the leg that needed to be if he lands a successful attack then he will be pass the test, that was all he needed to do. He prepared his mace running but he was soon stopped by an upset Kain, he already had the idea that he was planning to take a shot at the massive creature.

"You're not moving from this spot it's too dangerous to charge in, let the others handle it first!"

"But all I need is to attack it only once."

"Don't get overconfident and careless they are weaknesses that can cost anyone's life."

The warriors were back up again attack the other leg but the Long Gui attacked his leg hitting the ground, the warriors were hit by the tremor. Firion had it losing his patience the young boy ran charging at the creature while Kain gasped running after him, he wasn't happy in the least. It got worse when he spotted someone familiar catching up to the youth, he prayed that his eyes were deceiving him. There he saw his twelve year old daughter running next to him looks like she was planning to aid him in the test and that wasn't good news to the head of the clan. He was already upset with the young boy for running without his permission, now his daughter disobeys him for coming here.

"Fang what are you doing here I told you to stay at the village?"

"I've come to help father!" shouted the teen.

"It's okay Firion I'll cover you while you attack it."

"All right I'm counting you cous!"

Fang attacked with her lance confident that she will be enough so that her cousin will be able to land an attack, the rest of the members of the clan went to aid them although Kain wasn't happy with his daughter been here. Finally Firion took the chance he passed by his cousin hitting the leg with his mace, he smiled at his victory that was all he needed to do to passed the test. Fang was also smiling at his success happy for him to do it, compared to her situation when it was her turn to take the initiation test this was a real winner. Everything went well in the end she didn't regretted disobeying her father and coming here because she turned out to be great help, she was the reason her cousin passed the test.

"You did it Firion!"

"Thanks to you!" smiled the youth.

"Fang Firion look out!" shouted Kain.

"What….?"

Both have forgotten about the Long Gui it was still standing his other leg hasn't been damaged like it's other one. The giant monster casted quake again as Fang was shocked she ran to Firion trying to protect him from the incoming earth avalanche, she didn't care what happens her as long as her cousin was all right. The other warriors as well as Kain ran to them but they knew they weren't going to make it in time it was all up to the heiress of the Yun clan to save the young boy. But she didn't make it she watched in horror as her cousin was hit by the earth attack, it was too late to save him. Kain as well as the clan members were shocked they chose to attack the creature while the leader was checking on the youth, he quickly gave his daughter an angry glare that made her shiver in fear knowing that she was in big trouble.

"Firion….no" tears were forming in her green eyes feeling bad with herself for failing to save him.

"Firion answer me!" he shook his body and felt relief that he moved slightly, he was breathing he was still alive.

The head of the clan knew what to do Firion passed the test and he was hurt their job was done, no need to stay here or caring that the Long hasn't been beaten but one of the things he hated the most is to run away from a battle it hurts his pride as a warrior and as head of the clan. But one thing was clear he was very upset with his daughter.

"Retreat we're falling back!"

(Time skip)

(Scene change)

Fang cried in pain as Kain cut her right shoulder with his hunting knife, the cut was above her first scar that will soon become her second scar. This is how the leader of the clan discipline her the number of times she was cut equals the number of times she has made a mistake, like disobeying her father. He was very angry with her after what she recently did and after what happened to Firion, what she did was simply unforgiveable. That was the first thing the older Yun did when they returned to their home while Phaidra was present looking upset, she has never approved of her husband's way to punish their daughter. For now she chose to stay quiet but she was going to give her thoughts about this, with his expression she will have to say something in the matter.

"That's the second mistake you made young lady. I told you clearly to stay at the village that you will only get in the way if you come with us."

"I didn't got in the way because of me Firion passed the test!" cried the heiress.

"And because of you he got hurt, and we also had to escape from the fight!"

"Calm down Kain you heard what your brother said. Firion is all right he only suffered minor injuries he will make a fast recovery soon" said Phaidra.

"And besides dear he passed the test, shouldn't you be pleased with this result?" added the young woman.

"That's not the point, my point is that apparently someone doesn't know when to obey orders from her superiors" the leader of the clan turned to his daughter with a glare.

"I wanted to help Firion and I wanted to help you too!"

"Well you weren't needed I told you to stay here. When I give you an order young lady I expect that you will obey without a second thought but you disobeyed me for the second time."

"Father I…I only want to make you proud of me" she was in tears.

The older Yun was too angry to control his temper" you will never make me proud, you're a mistake!"

"Kain!" shouted Phaidra scolding her husband.

"I tried for years to train you and turn you into someone I can look up to and be proud of. But you have completely failed to meet my expectations, Fang you are not worthy to be the heiress of the Yun clan or even my daughter!"

"Kain that's enough!"

The heiress stood in complete shock at his words even if her tears were falling. But something else her father's cold and harsh have woken up something inside of her she was broken and hurt, but most of all she was angry. The rage within her started a spark as she was now glaring at the older man and her mother was looking worried because nothing good was going to come up from all of this. Kain stood quiet right after he saw his daughter giving him such a hateful glare, even meaner than he has. He suddenly felt that emotion when he looked into her eyes that were fear, he knew he did wrong in saying those words to her when she didn't deserves them. He didn't meant them he was too hungry with what happened at the test, to Firion and running away from the fight with the Long Gui.

"I'm sorry father" her tone was soft.

"Fang listen I-"

"I'm sorry if I wasn't born the boy you always wanted because that's what you want a boy to be the heir of the clan. I'm sorry if I was never good enough to meet up your expectations, I'm sorry for being born a girl, I'm sorry if I was weak, I'm sorry for what happened to Firion, I'm sorry for being your daughter and I'm sorry for being a mistake!"

"Fang…." Phaidra was shocked.

"I have had it since you think I'm a mistake and not worthy to be your daughter then I quit. I don't want to be part of this clan. You're not a father but a failure and I hate you!"

"Fang!"

She ran away from the house eventually she ended up sobbing leaving her parents behind. Kain stood speechless after hearing her words he never thought she would get so angry that she will end up snapping at him with so much anger. The middle aged man lowered his head feeling guilty and ashamed aware that this was his entire fault for treating his daughter all these years the wrong way. He had this coming so there was no reason for him to feel angry at her, his gaze fell on his wife. Phaidra looked disappointed in him probably ashamed for the things he said to her, she probably felt to be ashamed of being his wife. But there was no anger in her eyes her gaze meet he's it felt like they could read each other's thoughts.

"Take a long look Kain, these are the consequences when you put pride and honor over your family."

"…."

"What happen after that?" asked Sasuke his eyes said so much.

"After I supposedly quit the clan, Cocoon invaded Oerba kind of ironic it happened right after I snapped at my father.

The Uchiha stood in deep thought after hearing part of the story of her life he was amazed at how much he and Fang had in common. Both born from a clan filled with pride, both seeking acknowledgement from their father, both considered weak and unworthy to be heirs of their respective clans. Both lost their clan and their family and follow the path of revenge with hatred as their guide, they were truly made for each other and understood very well what each was feeling. Both share the same pain both were in the same thread of cruel fate, impressive that two souls were able to meet in the middle of crisis situation with them being enemies of Cocoon and l'Cie carrying a focus that one of them wants to carry out.

"Back then I said I quit but after what Cocoon did to the clan and my village, I had to retake my rightful place as heiress of the Yun clan. I couldn't abandon father, mother and everyone else I couldn't bear turning my back on them."

"Screw him…."

"What?"

"Screw that guy, you were right he's not a father just a failure. Someone who disrespects and treats his own child like trash is not deemed to be called 'father'."

"Watch your mouth Uchiha!" snapped the Pulsian huntress.

"Why are you-"

"You're right. He may not have been a good role model, but he was still my father nothing won't ever change that."

"I guess…."

"Did you have the same problem with your father?"

"I did you already know about my brother I wish I could've been like you an only child. My father never paid attention to me because he was always focused on Itachi, he was the prodigy of the clan always perfect. The best example of a true Uchiha, I was always on his shadow. I trained hard every day to get my father's attention, so that he can see I have what it takes to be the best too."

"That never happened I was always second place next to my brother. Father always looked up at him with so much pride and respect and it was different whenever he looked at me, it was the same feeling you got whenever your father looked at you."

"It's a terrible feeling that haunts you forever, to never be loved by your father just because-" she replied softly.

"Just because he was too proud of the clan and always expected nothing but the best, I know how you feel. My father only favored perfection and Itachi had that but there was this time I was able to change his opinion of me for a while."

"What did you do?" she sounded interested.

"My father taught me this fire jutsu when I first started practicing it I failed. He obviously lose faith in me because I was nowhere in Itachi's level, I didn't give up and continued trying until I learn it."

"It must feel horrible to be compared by your brother you're nothing like him never."

"It gave another reason to learn it and show him that I can become strong too like Itachi. Eventually I managed to learn the jutsu and showed him, I would never forget the words he told me. He smiled at me and before he left he said' as expected of my child'."

"It must feel great to have been complimented by your father even if it was only once" Fang gave a warm smile at him.

"It was, the best feeling I have ever felt, I could finally feel proud of myself since then" he smiled a kind of smile one would never see from the Uchiha.

"Wish I could have experience it with my father, that's asking for the impossible…."

"Do you think what your father said about you is true?" he stood staring at her.

"At first I thought it was but then I realized that it will be better if I showed how wrong he is."

"Thought you were going to say that" he gave a grin.

"Fang….?"

"Hmm…."

"I don't see you as a disappointment or a mistake. You have showed everyone that you're anything but weak, a true strong fighter."

"Where did that came from?" he was asking himself.

The Pulsian huntress stared at him in shock and suddenly she felt her cheeks flushed feeling embarrassed from the compliment, a warm smile spread on her lips" really….what else?"

"You're strong I mean it, you fight like a fierce warrior I was impressed when you took down that Garuda when we we're at the Palamecia."

"What's going on what is wrong with me?" he asked himself again not having a clue why he was saying those words to her.

"What else?"

"You're one of kind woman, never met someone like you."

"What the hell why did I said that damn it…."

"What else?" she asked yet again.

"You're a good person and a true comrade, and friend" now he had no idea why he was feeling nervous all of the sudden when he was talking to her a few moments ago, he was perfectly fine.

"What else?"

"I…"

The Uchiha turned to her only to be shocked he was staring right in front of her face. Fang was so close to him that their lips was only a few inches away, one more move forward from either of them and it could lead to a collision. He felt getting more nervous and his heart was pounding like crazy he knew about this, he was acting the same way back at the Lindblum when they were training. She did the same thing leaning her face closer to he's with their lips so close to reach ultimate contact. He tried to remained calm and collected when he was failing miserably, his heart was pounding so hard it was ready to burst out from his chest, and he was ready to curse out loud for feeling like this when he had no idea why. Their eyes met while the Pulsian beauty gave him such a fond smile that made his heart jump.

"…."

"Sasuke…..what else?" she whispered.

"I….you're…..so beautiful" he whispered so low but she heard him.

"Why did I say that?"

"That's nice" she gave a smile.

"I'm still bothered though….."

"About your father….?"

"No something else."

"What….?"

"Why haven't you kissed me yet?"

The question has caught him off guard never expecting that she would say that. But then again Fang was very bold she would obviously say something like that he stood in thought what to do. Listening to the voice in the back of his head and following his impulse and something else, like his heart he made his move. He moved his face close and at the same time the Pulsian beauty moved her face, and soon their lips met in a soft slow kiss. He accepted the kiss still not knowing not having a clue why he was going for something like this, nut it felt good. Fang has reached her arm wrapping it around his neck to deepen the kiss and in return the Uchiha pulled her closer deepening it further more. This night will be forever remembered by both l'Cie they shared their past, their pain, the things they have in common.

And their first kiss….

(Time skip: the next day)

Both were ready to go and start their search to find the others. Fang has summoned her crystal unleashing her Eidolon Bahamut they do needed some quick transportation and they also needed a way to carry the dead adult Megistotherian too. The Eidolon was summoned changing into his gestalt mode both of them got on as they carried the dead creature aboard, when they were done Bahamut lifted off flying. Fang gazed at Sasuke smiling still thinking about the kiss they shared last night and remembering how good it felt, it was better than she thought now she knew how much Naabat enjoyed it when she kissed him. The raven haired l'Cie turned to her and she smiled at him, he only gave an unsure half smile which made her smile even more. By now she was certain what these feelings for sure.

"This is love eh…."

(What the hell do I looked like a cargo ship to you?) growled Bahamut who wasn't happy to be carrying the dead monster.

"Quit your whining."

(Fine but you better reward me with some good destruction later).

"Leave it to him to ruin a perfect moment…."

To be continued

Yay I uploaded the new chapter before the end of the year I fulfilled my promise, and best of all it's a long chapter hooray. I really like this chapter by far because of Fang's flashbacks she's one of my favorite characters from XIII just like Lightning and I wanted to develop her character further, along with giving her more similarities to Sasuke. On another topic how was that teaser between Naruto and Lightning hehehe that's just a small preview to what I have in store for them when the lemon arrives. Don't worry I have the same plans for Sasuke and Fang too, they will have their chances to do a teaser too (giving an evil and perverted grin).

Moving on another topic I gave reference to Firion from ff2 and Kain Highwind from ff4 with using their names with Fang's father and her cousin. Another topic only six weeks baby for the release of XIII-2 hell yeah I already paid for my copy as well as the strategy guide. Only thing that bugs me is that Hope is 24 in the game when he's supposed to be 17 it must be a time paradox or something. But I can see Hope/Lightning fans will have a field trip with this game saying "yay Hope is older now he can be with Lightning" I can see the many Hope/Lightning stories that will arrive after the game's release.

Now here's a small trivia for all of you to know:

Did you know that Lightning's English voice actress Ali Hillis has a l'Cie brand tattoo above her breasts, same location as Lightning how super cool is that (giggling like a true fan boy). Fine I admit I love Ali she's my idol and I love her work with Lightning I'm a big fan boy so what.

But anyway I have plans 2012 with more chapters for "Legend of the Defiers" as well as more chapters from "Rise of the night hunters" and possibly if inspiration and my mojo to write is working then I might update other stories I haven't update in a while (like Am I worthy to love you). Thank to everyone for more than 500 reviews and keep them coming. I will see you all next time farewell.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM GRAVENIMAGE!

Next time: the Gran Pulse documentary