Legend of the Defiers

by Gravenimage

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

33. Trial of Guilt

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and FFXIII they are the rightful property of Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

** Communications through radio and phones

(Bold and parenthesis Eidolons speaking)

*Kyuubi speaking*

---

Chapter 33 Trial of Guilt

(Location: Northern High Plain the Archylte Steppe Gran Pulse Terra Incognita)

The l'Cie group has reached a small hill leading to two monsters that were fighting, good thing it was enough to give them the advantage in the fight. Even if it was a Megisthoterian and a Behemoth King since they were only focusing in fighting each other it was easy for the group to ambushed both creatures and beat them. One of the few fights they have had in Pulse which turned out to be easy as numbers were in their favor some fights we're tough, recalling one against the Adamantoise. Aware that ahead more fights will be waiting for them as they traveled down the path of the steppe, their goal to reach the village of Oerba the home of their Pulsian companions Fang and Vanille. Snow decided to take the lead and move on ahead of us to scout further ahead, if Fang was right they were near their next destination.

Naruto smiled at the happy environment around him everyone seemed to be in a light good mood. Maybe it had something to do with the success recording of his documentary he made a second guess of that previous statement. The group got annoyed that he was filming them for an entire week it could get tiring after all, including some pranks and perverted things he did. He erased the blush of recording Lightning's butt aside, that was nice but he knew he was looking for trouble from his pink haired girlfriend. But everything was worth it because he was able to record the documentary, he already checked through it and it was very good in his own opinion. The camera had some battery left so if he feels like there was something to be recorded he will make sure to put it to use again.

He turned his gazed to Sasuke who seemed to be in thought, he made a guess that it was about Fang. Since he shared a kiss with her the Uchiha was questioning what he felt towards the tall Pulsian huntress. He hoped for the best that he will find out and do the right thing, as his best friend he will support him. Hope was happy as usual, the same with Vanille and he wasn't that dense to see that both have gotten close since they reunited at the Palamecia, he grinned a little. Sazh was his usual self too with his Chocobo friend flying around looking cheery. Fang, every once in a while she will steal a glance at Sasuke the whiskered blond gave another grin. Remembering she was the one that made him looked like a joke calling his hair to be similar to a Chocobo's butt the thought was still hilarious and fresh in his mind it was too funny. Then there was Lightning who will glance at him every now and then, he didn't minded her gazes always happy to look at her.

"There's a way through here!"

The group walked towards a passage that by now they have left the steppe and high plain. They met up with Snow who was standing waiting for them he was done with the scouting. They gazed ahead there stood a large dark cave, it was a sign that they were going the right way. The cave will lead them away from the Archylte Steppe and deeper into the depths of the Pulsian world. Fang and Vanille gazed at the cave smiling after two weeks they have made it to their destination both Pulsians recognized this part of the region. They have walked here before especially the huntress and heiress of her clan, Fang remembers the many times she has taken this path after they were done with the hunting. Of course remembering her past brought painful memories between herself and her father, memories she wanted to erase for good.

"A cave" said the Uzumaki.

"That's the path to Mah'habara Subterra" replied Fang.

"Going this way will take us to Oerba" said Vanille.

"About time" followed Sasuke feeling bored with being in the steppe for too long.

"We really made it, maybe from here on things will get easier for us" said Sazh.

"Don't bet on it, Mah'habara is filled with unwanted company" said the Pulsian huntress.

"It's better this way, more fighting more training" replied the Uchiha.

"Well some of us don't share your point of view in enthusiasm" said the afro haired gunner.

"I do" Naruto smiled agreeing with the raven haired l'Cie.

"That makes two of us" Lightning also agreed with him.

"I really don't mind we have gotten stronger" said Hope.

"We can do it!" Vanille gave a cheered.

"Not like we're alone in this, we have gotten so far. Let's keep moving no doubt we'll reach Fang and Vanille's village" replied Snow walking to the group.

"Off we go we'll stick together, who knows how Mah'habara looks now?" said Fang.

"Hopefully not crowded enough" said the afro haired man.

"Don't be on it" she countered.

One thing they have learned during their stay in Pulse besides that it was a big planet, bigger than Cocoon. It was a wild jungle where the strong survives and weak perish the art of survival where the predator takes down the prey was essential in the vegetation world. Not giving it another thought the l'Cie group resumed their journey entering the cave obviously everything grew dark, the light leaving their sight as soon as they entered. It wasn't too dark they were still able to see the path they were walking to, but getting deeper it did they were only relying on the two Pulsians accompanying them. Some light were shed over the area ahead they noticed that their surrounding had a slight change from the Archylte Steppe, meaning they weren't no longer in the same region.

"I don't like this one bit" Snow muttered.

He was right somehow the scenery had a slight sense of danger in it, but they were in the right direction. And it was quite obvious that they all knew the road to Oerba was going to be very dangerous, no need to think hard about it. Now if they will meet stronger monsters than the one they met at the steppe that will be almost impossible, to find creatures that can top the Behemoth King and the Adamantoise. The group remained calm they will be able to fight their way as a team without rushing on things and once again Lightning has taken the lead. Using her experience as former sergeant of the Corps in cases like this one where you're unfamiliar with the area it was best to stay together and never get separated. But each of them we're calm and comfortable and it was strange that none was showing fear they all seemed to get use to the danger.

Taking a turn in the cave they were already greeted by enemies two mechanical beings, they were obviously new because the group has never met them before except the two Pulsians traveling with them. They weren't Pulsework soldiers due of their appearance was different from said mentioned casting libra on one of them they found out they are called Hoplite. Able to inflict heavy physical damage but to their advantage their elemental weakness was lightning magic. The party fought them and defeated them quite quickly thanks to casting lightning magic and there were only two of the mechanical beings. It wasn't over three Hoplites were further ahead which the group didn't hesitated in taking down, afterwards there were more of the same mechanical creatures like there was no end in sight.

They casted all kinds of lightning spell from thunder, thundara, sparkstrike. These were the kind of opponents that the Eidolon Odin would have a field trip frenzy due to their major weakness to the lightning element. That was enough to bring them down without putting any strong effort in the fight, no need to summon the lightning Eidolon. At some point in the fights Lightning was able to learn a new spell third and strongest level in lightning magic thundaga, this one spell was able to destroy four Hoplites like it was nothing. The group was in awed at the sight wondering if they were be able to learn the strong spell especially Sasuke, a new technique meant a power boost to their l'Cie abilities. Hopefully they will learn it eventually as they continued to fight onward.

They encountered more enemies two Hoplites and one new mechanical creature that resemble a walking box shape robot. Playing it safe the l'Cie group used libra on the new addition of monsters to fight, it was known as a Boxed Phalanx. It had the same stats as the Hoplite deliver devastating physical attacks and weak against lightning elemental magic, the group made the simple strategy of charging at them with numbers and strength by their side. Lightning used thundaga destroying the two Hoplites and damaging the Boxed Phalanx while the rest went on a lightning assault on the remaining mechanical being. Needless to say that the Boxed Phalanx was beaten badly against the great numbers of the group, it was destroyed following the two Hoplite. It wasn't much of a challenge if this is what the Subterra was like then they won't be having any trouble passing through the region.

They were done with the fight they took a look straight at them where there stood a large iron platform, giving view to the underground caverns. In the distance stood more enemies some were recognizable as the Pulsework centurion due to its resemblance to previous Pulsework models, the mechanical beings were accompanied by bombs only they had a different color. Ignoring them they chose to take a long look at the area, to the l'Cie from Cocoon it was the first time they have gazed upon and underground cavern system. Others like Fang was in thought remembering this part of Mah'habara although it was very different from the last time she passed through here, being from Pulse she knew who was responsible for creating the tunnel systems. Vanille stood staring at the place but she was a bit unfamiliar with the setting not remembering much of the Subterra.

"A Gran Pulse Fal'Cie made this path."

"Yep I bet it's digging more tunnels" said Vanille with Hope next to her.

"They seem different from all the Fal'Cie we've seen on Cocoon. It's just like they plow through without caring what happens around them" said the silver haired teen.

"That's true, but then again we we're able to build our village on land cleared of Fal'Cie. We lived alongside them just like, just like you do on Cocoon" said the Pulsian huntress.

"Oh yeah this is 'just' like Cocoon" Sazh was obviously being sarcastic but the group chose to ignored it.

"In a world this big, who knows what we'll find" said Lightning crossing her arms.

"That's why I'm not giving up, I'm sure we'll find some human life if we can continue to travel" said Naruto.

"Don't get your hopes up mate" said the Pulsian woman.

"Fang….?" said the red head she couldn't blame her both have witnessed how many were lost and gone because of the war.

"Let's stay positive okay?" said the blond jinchurikki.

"Really wish I had your attitude Naruto" Fang shook her head.

"Let's not lower our guard, enemies ahead" said Sasuke gazing at the unwanted company roaming around the iron platform.

Resuming their walking Fang caught up with Vanille" I haven't ask you yet, do you remember now?"

"Huh remember?" the red head caught off guard not knowing what she was talking about.

"Our focus, do you remember it now because I remember it shortly when we fought Dysley at the Palamecia?"

"I..."

"It really slipped my mind not telling you about it. It's been a while since we woke up."

"Everything still a bit of a blur I don't remember much" she smiled putting her most convincing expression and her words too.

"All right you will remember eventually like I did" the Pulsian warrior was convinced enough of her explanation.

"…."

The red head stood quiet in thought as Fang got ahead of her following the others, only a couple of were staring at her. Sazh was the first he knew the truth because the red head told him everything when they visited the city of Nautilus and the other part of her story when they were being held prisoner at the Palamecia. The afro haired pilot has also remembered when he talked to her at the Archylte Steppe a few weeks ago regarding telling Fang the truth and his example when Dajh lied to him when he broke a vase. He didn't want to get involved in something this personal it was between her and her friend, but keeping it hidden wasn't the right thing to do. Sazh finally caught up with the rest following them wishing the red head all the luck in the world to being honest with her childhood friend.

Naruto was another who noticed the lie Vanille told Fang, this was the second one she says to the tall Pulsian. He knew she lied of having amnesia when it involves her focus when they woke up, the red head revealed to him when he interviewed her during the filming of his documentary. Now the right thing to do is to talk to her about her mistake, someone like the Uzumaki will be stubborn enough and kind enough to convince her. Yet he was confident enough that she will eventually tell Fang because he believes in her, she was stronger that she looks with everything she has endured with her friend. He clearly saw Vanille and Fang as two strong best friends, who went through hell and back who wanted what was best for their home and each other. Not regretting one bit the Uzumaki chose not interfere in this personal matter and let it get resolve on its own.

Last but not least was Sasuke the Uchiha was first staring at Vanille before his onyx eyes went on Fang. This was wrong what she was doing in lying to her, even he could see that nothing good was going to come out of it. He knew how much the red head meant to the Pulsian huntress he remembered how angry she got when she found out the Sanctum captured her, there was a strong bond between the two Pulsians they were family. In fact he was the first person who found out the red heads secret because he met Fang before the others back at Euride and the fireworks festival he figured out on his own that she was lying when he talked to her at the Vestige. Not interfering was the right choice but this couldn't be left out for too long anymore, something needed to be done.

The Uchiha did care for Fang more ways that he could know and this wasn't going to help her in the journey. The meaning of bonds made him see that keeping secrets from each other would only cause more harm than good, in this case between Fang and Vanille. The two Pulsians sisters needed to clear out any obstacles between them that's not what the head of the Yun clan thought, it surprised him that she hasn't figure out the truth. Maybe because she had too much trust and faith in the red head to doubt her she was completely oblivious that her friend lied of not remembering their focus. Usually he wasn't the kind of person to butt in other's personal business, but in this case he might make an exception he wanted to fix this and help both Pulsians especially Fang.

Heading further down into the tunnel system of the Subterra, eventually more enemies to fight arrived at the scene. The bombs known as Cryohedron it had the ability to absorb ice elemental magic and water damage was halved it was truly among the trickiest bomb type creatures they have met so far. They were the first to go down because like other bombs they have the ability to self-destruct and inflict massive damage to their surroundings. One of them went off and thankfully the party managed to get away safely from the blast radius zone, on their favors the explosion took down two more Cryohedron. The Pulsework centurion were easier to take down eventually, maybe due that they have grown in strength since then.

Another enemy they encountered we're the rust pudding similar to the flan in physical appearance and structure only it was of different color along with different elemental weakness, and like the Boxed Phalanx and the Hoplite it was lightning. They were also easy to dispose of using all kinds of lightning magic, no problem fighting them. They saw a bridge ahead made from the same material of the ground, same iron type floor. Another area that was featuring a good view of the underground tunnel like system of Mah'habara, excluding the monsters and the machines it wasn't such bad place to stay. Unless if you were claustrophobic then this place isn't for you, no one wouldn't want to be in a tunnel for too long without seeing the light of day the group stopped walking once they were in the middle of the bridge, because of a distant sound coming from the tunnels.

"You guys hear that?" Naruto was the first to hear the drilling like sound.

The ground started shaking as the sound was getting louder meaning that whatever it was making that noise, it was getting closer.

"Well guys, heads up!" said Snow.

The noise got louder and emerging from one of the tunnels was a sphere mechanical thing that was running from some sort of spikes. They were sharp enough to break through the earth and cause all the digging that was doing, that gave everyone the clue of who is responsible for the entire digging in the Subterra. The sphere digging machine was quite big in size it was probably the same size as a PSICOM air ship.

"Whoa, look at that thing!"

"Let me guess that's a Fal'Cie?" said the NORA leader.

"Yep, busy carving out new tunnels" replied Vanille.

"Making roads where road aren't meant to go, huh kind sounds like us?"

"All right roly poly let's hitch a ride on that thing!"

"Now you're thinking Gran Pulse style!"

"Roly poly….?" said Sasuke.

"Yeah what's that supposed to mean Snow?" followed Naruto.

"I just made it up, felt like coming up with a new cheery phrase."

"It's not a very good cheery phrase."

"Hn…."

Leaving the bridge there were two Hoplite and Pulsework centurion the group beat them without a breaking a sweat, another easy victory. Fang grinned at their wins if they keep this up they will reach Oerba sooner than expected, yet this win couldn't shake her from her thoughts. She took a glance at Vanille the red head looked happy, her usual cheery self she was truly enjoying traveling with everyone. Someone like Fang knew her so well she has come to understand her ever since they were little she was just like Naruto who managed to see through her fake smiles as a sign that on the inside she was suffering. And there have been plenty of times that even with everything they have gone through, she could see that the red head was still giving those fake smiles. Something was bothering her and she could feel it, and it was worrying her till no end.

She stopped for a moment lost in thought at what was wrong with Vanille. It wasn't her l'Cie brand because she was always checking up on it to see if it was changing, which it hasn't changed that much. This was really making her think a lot if it wasn't her brand then what else would be bothering her the only option left their focus. But she doubted it because they have made the decision in going against it and she agreed with everyone to fight it instead of fulfill it, so she asked herself again what was wrong with Vanille. She needed to get some answers and knowing her red headed friend she wasn't going to tell her anything, eventually she will give a bad lie that she was all right along with a fake smile. She went to ask someone if that person would know something about it, and she already made her pick.

She went behind Sasuke" need to talk…."

The Uchiha raised an eyebrow before giving a nod her tone was serious he wasn't going to deny her request. They were still walking only they chose to walk slower than the others wanting to have that conversation, judging from Fang's tone it was definitely something private or personal. There was the possibility that it was about his decision when it comes to accept her because of the kiss they shared, the chance of having something more than a friendship. That got him a little nervous and tried not to think about it now it wasn't the right time for any of that, he really hoped it was something else. Looking into her green eyes it was personal he didn't mind listening to what she has to say, as long as it wasn't about the kiss or the term that it was' up to him'.

"Do you know anything about Vanille?"

"What….?"

"I should be specific, I know something's wrong with her and I know she's been hiding something from me for a while. It didn't bother me at first, but now I can't take it anymore I need to find out what she's hiding."

"Took you long enough to figure out…."

"What?" she stopped him from walking.

"You do know something don't you?"

"I shouldn't say anything, but I was planning in telling you anyway…."

"What is it what do you know?"

"What did she tell you when you two woke up?"

"She forgot our focus just like me."

"That's not true."

"What?" she was shocked.

"Look…she lied to you. She remembers her focus well."

"You mean-she remembers everything?" the shocked hasn't left her face.

"Guess so…."

"But why would she lie to me….?"

"It should be obvious by now she didn't wanted to fulfill her focus. She didn't want to get involve in Cocoon's destruction and she didn't want to risk your safety either."

"But lie to me…." she was trying to get over her shock.

"Vanille knows how loyal you are to her and she knew you were going to go through with fulfilling your focus no matter what, lying that she forgot was her only option. She knew you would get angry at her that's why she kept the truth hidden from you."

"Dam right I would" the Pulsian huntress crossed her arms not looking happy.

"Put yourself in her place you would understand why she did what she did."

"You're trying to make me feel guilty?" she sounded amused.

"I'm not…."

"Hey what's with you guys you're falling behind!"

They turned to see the rest of the group waiting for them to catch up although some of them were amused. Snow was grinning, Sazh was plain smiley, Hope was smiling too, Lightning seemed to be grinning while Naruto whispered in Vanille's ear making her giggle. Obviously they had the idea that both l'Cie we're having a personal conversation that might include admitting certain feeling to one another. The Uchiha evaded blushing from the embarrassment it was clearly from staring at all of their faces it looked like they were saying' way to go lovebirds' he was annoyed that they were caught. Taking a small glance at Fang she was grinning at the group's faces she didn't seem to mind that they were caught talking, after all they were only discussing about Vanille lying to her.

"Do you guys want us to give you some privacy?" Snow smirked.

"Maybe we should give the love birds their privacy" followed Sazh.

"I can hear you!" shouted the annoyed Uchiha.

"Let's get going, or maybe we should give them the wrong impression?" another grin has escaped the lips of the Pulsian beauty.

"Somehow I figure you were going to say that."

They walked back to the group but somehow both were keeping their distance from the others. Both felt like their conversation wasn't over but for the sake in keeping with the others and prevent another accident like right now from happening again, they focused more on walking. Things weren't so bored at least that's what Sasuke thought they had some target practice more enemies ahead, a couple of rust pudding after climbing some stairs leading to another iron bridge. He swore that all of these monsters were getting weak and not even one was providing the challenge he was looking for. After those monsters they didn't encountered anymore as they journey on into the dark tunnel straight ahead, much to his annoyance. But he got this time to get next to Fang keeping his eyes ahead he won't be happy if the others caught him talking to her because they're stupid enough to jump to conclusions.

"You're going to talk to her….?" he kept his tone down.

"I must" she replied her eyes were on the red head.

"Go easy on her…."

"I'll try thanks for caring mate" she glanced at him with a small smile.

"….."

After a while of traveling through the Mah'habara Subterra the party has stopped their walking. Lightning who was taking the lead decided that they should take a small break before continuing their journey, it seems like the tunnel system was quite long. They needed the rest if they wanted to proceed further and get to the area where the Fal'Cie carrier stops. No arguments or complaints were said by any of the members of the l'Cie group so they all agreed that they should take the former sergeant's words to consideration, and they did. Naruto got next to the older Farron while checking on everyone, Hope was next to Snow while Vanille was next to the teen and Sazh was next to Sasuke. They have all chosen to sit down as part of the break luckily for them there weren't any monsters in the vicinity, they will be safe here.

Fang was the only one who didn't got seated deciding to stay on her feet, her eyes and her expression that she was in deep thought. Now that everyone was taking the small rest this was her perfect chance to have a long serious conversation with Vanille that was the only thing in her mind. Too many emotions were circling around the tall Pulsian woman and among them were anger yes she was upset with the red head for lying to her, but maybe she had the right to do what she did. Sasuke's words we're repeated in her head she knew it was true Vanille was always the kind of person who was too innocent and kind hearted. She never wanted to hurt no one even to the Fal'Cie and the l'Cie of Cocoon who took everything dear to them, there was never any hatred in her pure heart. Yet she lied to her and that was a low blow to her especially her pride, that wasn't something easy to forget.

But she couldn't keep her anger on her not with Vanille she wasn't upset with her in truth. This is the same person she has known since they were so young, just kids. Both lost everything their home, their families and their clan both have suffered in the same scale. They met at the orphanage from the ruined Oerba village and immediately became friends, closer than friends they were family. It was the only way for them to continue on and move on from their tragedy, it's because they had each other that they were able to survive. Both became l'Cie because they wanted to protect each other and the survivors of their village, given the burden of the beast they failed but they were given crystallization slumber. After five hundred years they were back to finish what they started yet the red head chose to lie because she didn't wanted to fulfill their focus.

Her eyes softened she would rather turn Cie'th than seeing more people get hurt, that was just like Vanille all right to worry about other people even if it's the enemy. Never thinking about herself that part of her always annoyed her it was clear to why she chose to lie to her. Vanille knows the lengths she's willing to go to save them both especially her because she knows how much she cares for the people that very close to her. The person who bonds you have forged and have become your family, because she would rather be a Cie'th or experience a terrible death than watching another family member die before her. She mentally sighed running a hand through her hair it was now or never if she wanted to face the red head for good, she gave smile to everyone present before giving another mental sigh.

"Gotta get through this…."

"I'm going to scout ahead while you guys rest up, we're still far from reaching Oerba."

"All right I'll go with you" Lightning offered as she got up.

"Thanks Light, but I was thinking someone who knows Gran Pulse like me. What do you say Vanille?"

"Okay!" the red head got up cheery as always never suspecting Fang's actions in the least.

"You sure you guys want to go on your own?" asked Snow.

"This is our home we know this place better than anyone" replied the Pulsian huntress.

"We'll be fine!" said the red head.

"Be careful" Hope said.

"Don't go fighting monsters if you're outnumber" said Naruto.

"We know better than looking for a reckless fight."

"Let them go" said Sasuke in thought.

"We'll see you guys later" Vanille followed Fang as they left the group.

"Hm I feel like something's not right" Sazh said as he watched the two Pulsians leave.

"What do you mean?" asked the blond jinchurikki.

"I-I don't know must be my imagination."

"They need time to talk" said the Uchiha.

"Time….?" The pink haired soldier turned to him.

"Sasuke….?"

"…."

The raven haired l'Cie turned his gaze towards the distant Pulsian who were too far away by now" this is the only way, Fang you better know what you're doing…."

Naruto followed the Uchiha's gaze" damn I'm having that bad feeling again, I hope it's nothing serious."

Yet the Uzumaki couldn't shake the feeling that he was wrong.

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Flower-filled Fissure Mah'habara Subterra)

Fang and Vanille arrived at probably the only area in the Subterra where there was vegetation and sun light, truly surprising that in an underground region had an open part. The region had a large hole that had a view of the sky with the sun the two Pulsians smelled the air, it smelled of water there was probably a river nearby. This was the only explanation why there was a green area in Mah'habara, sun light and water the necessary components for plant life to survive. It was the only part where it was really beautiful having a resemblance to the usual grassy landscapes of Gran Pulse. Even with the pleasant scenery someone was concentrating in her conversation with a certain red head making sure not to snap at her or rather get angry, after finding out the truth from Sasuke.

The Pulsian huntress finally got an idea how to break the ice with her friend. Talking about it was hopeless Vanille was never going to admit the truth so her only strategy is to pretend that she has gotten her memory back just now. It was the only thing in her mind right now and this was the perfect chance to talk about it having this time alone with her, her anger was already gone. She only wanted to know why she kept this hidden from her, why lie putting herself in danger like that. The red head was smiling the grassy field she stopped as she spotted a familiar set of flowers not too far from them. She recognized them bringing some nostalgia back to her this area also had some resemblance to their village, she wasn't going to wait any longer she wanted that long talk with her red headed friend.

"These flowers, you remember then right?" she knelt in front of the group of flowers.

"Yeah sure I do. They grew all over Oerba."

"We can't be far now" she happily got up following her tall friend.

"Time to play victim…."

"It's my fault Gran Pulse ended up like this, isn't it?"

"Wha-?" she was a little shocked at her sudden comment.

"I remember everything. I became Ragnarok, I scarred Cocoon. And I left Gran Pulse in this mess, it was me."

"She told me a while back she remembers our focus but I didn't know she will actually remember everything that happened no…Fang."

"What are you talking about?" she pretended like she didn't know but she was failing miserably, she suddenly felt something inside of her reacting like it was ready to come out.

"It all came back to me, everything that happened to our focus. All of it."

"You're lying" acting stubborn still pretending like she didn't know.

(Guilty….)

Her left thigh started glowing with mysterious energy as part of being an l'Cie. She touched said body part this great power was trying to emerge from her brand it wanted to escape to be release in the open. However Fang hasn't noticed the bright energy as she had her back to the red head, she had no idea what was about to happen.

"No, it's the truth. It's all my fault."

"Don't say that!"

(Guilty!)

The mark and the power has expanded releasing a crystal color summoning circle below them, the power has been release by its own free will reacting to a negative emotion.

"Vanille!"

From the circle emerged an Eidolon red colored with its unique physical characteristics it had many arms like an octopus. It has been summoned due to Vanille's guilt after hearing the truth from Fang's mouth, the truth she has been hiding all along and keeping it hidden for good without telling her. The Pulsian huntress took her lance knowing a fight was coming their way against the new summoned Eidolon Vanille's own Eidolon has come to judge her in taking its test. The same thing that has happened to everyone from the l'Cie group being tested by the Eidolons to prevent themselves from straying from their path and give up hope. The good thing from all of this that her plan work, well sort off she was able to unmask the red head's lie and it paid off in the end.

"The Eidolon knows the truth ha I knew I was right!"

"Wait, so you were lying" she was shocked that she tricked her.

"No more than you were, admit it you remember everything. You've been keeping it a secret from me."

"It wasn't, it wasn't your fault!"

"Vanille, we should talk about this later!"

She nodded taking her binding rod facing the Eidolon" I summoned him…."

(Guilty you're guilty for everything that has happened, this cruel fate was brought down upon both worlds and you're the only one to blame).

"I-that's not true."

(Your guilt has been harbored in your heart for far too long. It has been transformed into your own demise let it be your downfall).

"No I don't want anyone else to get hurt no more pain, no more death…."

"Vanille get a hold of yourself, the Eidolon is talking to you through your mind. Eidolons have a mental link with the ones that summon them that is how they communicate with each other. Whatever he's telling you don't listen to him, he's giving you his test you know what to do."

"Right I'll prove myself that I'm strong!"

(Let the guilty be judge Doom!)

The red head Pulsian was hit by a strong wave as she saw before her eyes a timer of seventeen minutes and counting. She knew of the doom spell the one hit by it will have a period of time to be alive, when it reaches zero the person will die, it is the spell the Eidolons use on their summoners to test them. Fang chose to protect her friend going for the defensive using provoke followed by entrench increasing her defense while the red head thought of weakening the Eidolon first. She has cast imperil, deprotect and deshell while the many arms being readied looming wrath. The Eidolon affected by provoke went for the kill on the Pulsian huntress using a series of combo moves pummel, aerial tackle, hurricane kick and force protection. The results Fang has been weakened even with her defense increased full, the attacks were really strong.

"Fang hold on!" she casted cura healing her wounds.

"Don't worry about me, concentrate on attacking him!"

"If I do that she might get hurt badly, she might even…." Her green eyes widened in horror.

(Poor guilty soul, lost your way in life let the guilt be your burden to carry forever….)

"I won't be holding down by your words, I never wanted any of this."

(You lie to get away from the truth, it only feeds the guilt. More humans are involved due to your cowardice how much are you willing to feed your guilt?)

"Stop it!"

"Vanille!" Fang saw her friend struggling she has stopped attacking.

"Concentrate on the fight!"

(Guilt has made you weak it weakens the heart and shrouds the hatred).

"Stop please…."

Fang got attacked again this time she was sent to the ground, the provoke effect seemed to have worn off. Now he has chosen a new target on the red head, while she was healing her friend. She followed with attacking as the Pulsian warrior was trying to get up but it was making it hard for her after getting hit badly by the Eidolon's melee attacks. Fifteen minutes on the doom clock was making her too nervous, she cast fira and watera magic attacks that affect the many arms Eidolon a bit. The being charged at her but Fang got in the way taking his attacks, protecting her in the process. The red head was shocked it felt like she was a burden that needed the protection, it only lead for the Pulsian to get hurt. She stood watching Fang using provoke followed by entrench all for the purpose that she's safe, she felt like she couldn't move she was frozen in place.

"Fang no…."

(More guilt has been feed upon you, let it consume you. Let it affect those around close to you).

"I don't want her getting hurt because of me, no more pain please don't hurt her."

(Proof how strong guilt has grown in your heart).

"Stop don't hurt her!" she shouted as tears were emerging.

"Vanille what are you doing attack him?" Fang turned to her in her entrench defense stance.

"It's all right, forget her and attack me. I'm the one you want right?"

"What….?" The Pulsian warrior stood shock at her red headed friend's reaction.

(Let the guilt consume every bit of your heart, you know the truth who's the one to blame).

"Yes I know" she lowered her head she followed lowering her binding rod.

"Vanille what are you doing?"

"Go ahead and hurt me, just don't hurt my friend. I'm the one who should get hurt and punish."

"Are you listening to yourself missy?" Fang was still too shocked to react.

(The guilt will forever live in your heart haunting you, are you ready to suffer for all your crimes?)

"I'm here now right….?"

"Fight him Vanille don't let him win!"

The red head remained quiet lowering her head waiting to take her punishment, the tears began to fall. The guilt has become too much for her to bear finding it no point in continuing with everything she has suffer, no longer having a will to move on. The only thing she could do is be a good girl and wait for her punishment and it came back to her all the times she has lie pretending like nothing bothered her. Lying to run away trying to save herself while getting other people involved and eventually they suffer the consequences. She was a Pulse l'Cie who woke up in the world of her supposed enemies the right thing to do was for her to be hunted and die, and that's what she did she waited to get attack by the Eidolon. It didn't matter everything she has been through with Fang and the other l'Cie on this journey, it all felt meaningless to her.

"Vanille!"

(Quake!)

The many arms Eidolon has unleashed the powerful earth elemental technique straight at her while the red head Pulsian stood in her place. She wasn't hit by it but instead she gasped hearing a cry of pain seeing with her very own eyes, she was horrified. Fang has embraced her taking the earth attack herself saving her yet again, the sight brought more tears to fall. She started sobbing that she has taken her place in receiving punishment but the sacrificial act has made her feel worse, it only made her feel more guilty. Here the person she has known since they were little has just taken an attack that was meant for her. Even in her battered state Fang was still holding her tightly in her arms with all her strength that she will be able to protect her no matter, how hurt she is.

"Fang…."

"What are you thinking letting yourself get killed isn't going to help on anything."

"But I-"

"I told you it's my fault I'm the one that became Raganarok and made this mess, you're not to blame so stop blaming yourself. What good would it do to feel guilty for the rest of your life?"

"I….."

"You remember when we first met?"

"…!" her eyes widened remembering the memory how could she ever forget.

"What we promised on that day, our oath…."

"I would never forget it I thought my life was over when I lost my family. But on that day you came and gave my life meaning you filled my life with hope…Fang."

Inside the small building of the Oerba orphanage stood a ten year old red headed girl, wearing a cream tribal dress and fur boots. She was seated in a corner of a stair case with her face bury on her knees sniffing she was obviously crying. She has been through so much already she lost her parents and a lot of her friends from her village due to the invasion of Cocoon l'Cie. They didn't showed mercy and kill everyone in sight, none chose to take prisoners. The few survivors have gathered to begin rebuilding the Pulsian village, this building were among the first structures to be rebuild. Eventually all children that lost their families in the attack were brought here, hoping that nay of the survivors would adopt them. But she wasn't even half excited that some complete stranger would adopt and took her into his home, she only wanted to be left alone.

She heard some children laughing outside because they were playing, she actually envied them. All of them lost their parents too and yet instead of crying over them, they managed to get over it and try to move on with their lives as long as they have company, as long as they have a friend. The people she knew were all gone, taken from her every person who was precious to her. So she chose isolation and solitude where she did the only thing she could think off, sob until her eyes die out from the tears. Not caring if she somehow makes a lake of her own tears why did she care if she drowns, everyone she loves is gone and they won't come back. A lot of the villagers were killed others turned Cie'th volunteering to be branded l'Cie but failed their focus eventually. So why she should care if she dies now, it didn't matter anymore she only wanted to cry.

"Hey you okay?"

The young red head looked up to stare at another girl looking a few years older than her, with wavy brown hair piercing green eyes wearing a blue attire that it was familiar to her like she has seen it before. Her expression was full of concern it didn't bothered that someone was talking to her she really need to talk to someone and express how she was feeling. There was something else about her that she felt she could trust her and someone break away from her need to be isolated from everyone else. She felt safe and secure and this was the best time to find a way to move on and start making friends, to still feeling like you want to go on in life trying to erase the pain she was going through. She will try to gather as much strength as she could to get through this ordeal.

"You've been here crying for a while now. I was watching, it's not healthy to stay mourning for too long."

"I'm just sad because I-"

"Lost your family?" she gave a small smile.

"I can't help but feel this way…."

"It's all right to feel like that there's nothing wrong. We're all here because we lost our families too you're not the only one mate."

"You too….?"

"Me too I'm here at the orphanage like everyone else. Your clothes you're from the Dia clan right?"

"I am, but now I'm the only one from my clan…."

"So am I, you see I'm from the Yun clan" she showed the young red head her clan symbol tattoo on her left arm.

"That's why your clothes are familiar I have seen members of that clan wearing something similar. Your clan is quite famous in the village."

"Don't flatter me I'm the one who's here to make you feel better. Name's Fang what's yours mate?"

"Vanille!" she replied cheery completely different when they started talking.

"I like your sudden change in attitude not bad Vanille. You don't mind if I hang out with you?"

"I don't mind."

"We're both the same there's nowhere else for us to go, we're both alone now. But at least we have each other right?"

"You're right I don't want to be alone, I want to be surrounded with people I care about but that's impossible everyone I love is gone" a few tears escaped from her eyes.

"Hey what about me I can be your friend if you let me. I honestly find this place depressing I don't like it one bit."

"Okay you're my friend!" she was very excited.

"That fast eh I accept thanks mate" young Fang got seated next to her.

"Maybe this is probably a good start."

"It is good start I want to make sure of it. See Vanille I kind of promised myself after this incident that I was going to try and rebuild my lost family."

"Rebuild your family how are you going to do that?"

"Meeting people that becomes close to me, I'm not talking of reviving my parents or anything of the sort. But making people to become close to me like friends for example like you."

"Me…."

"Yeah the more people the better and like that I can have that family, not like biological family but still a family is a family."

"I heard that the Yun clan sees everyone as their family, I guess it's true."

"That depends on the people only to those who have proven themselves to be trustworthy can be seen as family to the clan."

"But why do you include me as family?"

"Because you have already proven I can trust you, it's in your eyes. We're both the same and we only want to move on and try to rebuild our lives right?"

The young red head nodded as Fang patted her head" I want to be part of your family Fang."

"All right then I must perform a blood oath."

"Blood oath that sounds scary?"

"It's not that scary, a blood oath is the sacred act that members of my clan do to make someone close to us family. You're not too late you can still change your mind if you want to" the young Pulsian gave a small smirk.

"I-no it's okay I want to do this."

"Even if you have no idea who is done….?"

"Yes I want to!"

"All right…."

The twelve year old Fang took a small hunting knife from her pocket attire as she slid the blade on her right hand, cutting herself. Vanille was shocked at the sight why would she cut herself unless it was all part of this blood oath she spoke of, she was starting to get second thoughts of doing this. It looked painful and it was the obvious meaning behind the term' blood' she was too nervous to know what will happen next. Now she saw how strange the Yun clan made friends into family members but part of her was telling her to go through with it because she might regret it, her feelings were high that she could trust the young Yun clan member. Just as she thought Fang has taken her hand still holding the small knife.

"This going to hurt a little so bear with me okay…."

"O-all right…."

She slid the blade making a cut on her right hand the same way the young red head flinched from the pain. Blood started spilling as a couple of tears were formed, this time because of the pain. What followed next took her by surprise Fang has taken her cut hand and pressed it together with hers not knowing why, or what she had planned in the first place.

"With this our blood has merged together becoming one. We are now blood related making us family nothing won't separate us we will always be together. Under this oath we promise to live our lives together and to find our happiness as friends and family" smiled Fang.

"So you're saying we're now family-like sisters?" smiled the red head.

"That's right we're sisters we will never be alone as long as we have each other."

"Fang" Vanilled released more tears happily and for the first time since she lost her parents she was truly happy.

"Enough with the water works missy it might get contagious and I don't want to cry for nothing."

"I remember…."

(Feel the guilt and let it take over you, let it consume your soul and seize your heart).

The Eidolon charged at Vanille after charging up looming wrath but it was blocked by Fang using her lance. It was enough to wake her up bringing the red head to her senses she remember the past when they first met each other at the orphanage, a memory worth to remember that brought her happiness. Her eyes widened watching the Pulsian huntress attacking the many arms Eidolon with all her strength preventing him from going after her, and here she was doing nothing. Her green eyes we're on her many memories brought to her mind going back to the past remembering that horrible day in the war when her friend became the beast of destruction, Ragnarok. She realized before that the doom countdown was down to only six minutes, she didn't have too much time if she wanted to pass the Eidolon's test.

"Fang!"

The Pulsian warrior tried to block his attacks but they were too strong, using her defensive techniques. They weren't having that much effect she took another hurricane kick with additional pummel, followed by aerial tackle and force protection. She was sent to the ground only this time the red head got in front of her raising her binding rod and cast fira and thundara, the spells had a strong effect on the Eidolon as it was sent back a little but now enough to harm it. Fang got up and choose to attack it with full force because it being sent back by Vanille's magic, it only lasted for a moment. The Eidolon used aerial tackle with force protection instead of the Pulsian huntress to feel the deadly blow it was the red head who got in the way of the attack. She cried feeling the pain but didn't care as she protected the Pulsian from getting hurt any further.

"Vanille!"

She caught the red head worried sick" what are you doing let me take his attacks, you focus on attacking him?"

"No I have to face him head on I refuse to see you get hurt for me."

"But we can't win like that we need to come up with a good strategy."

"Please Fang trust me, it's my Eidolon my test I have to do this!"

"But you can't expect me to stand back and watch!"

(Guilt you will forever feel, everything is weight on your shoulders take the burden of guilt).

"Guilt that's the only thing I feel…."

The many arms Eidolon charged looming wrath once more as her countdown was now only to three minutes, if she didn't beat him then she won't have to worry about fulfilling her focus anymore. He charged using pummel but it was blocked and countered by Fang using her defensive techniques. The Pulsian huntress attacked with her lance not doing much damage before jumping back, not wanting to get into his merciless assault again. Vanille knew she didn't have enough time so she was going to make sure to give it everything she had in the next attack, while the Pulsian warrior attacking and defending at the same time. She followed with using entrench once more as the red head perform imperil, deprotect and deshell to weaken its stats again.

"Our oath…."

She gazed at her right hand at the cut that Fang made, the mark that symbols the blood oath. Her words were brought back again to her, thinking about them made her realize how foolish she's been. Fang jumped back at her blocking another attack while the expression of the red head has changed filled with determination. Only two minutes left until the doom counter hits zero and her life will end, yet she didn't wanted it to end. Too many things she promised herself she wanted to do to just die right here and a mission to fulfill with her friends. The Dia clan member gripped tightly at her binding rod casting aero on the Eidolon while he was preparing looming wrath again, she followed with blizzard and water. Fang grinned at her friend's sudden chance seeing that she was now taking this fight seriously, without feeling any guilt about it.

(Guilt is the only thing you can feel poor soul, only the guilty are left to perish).

"Yes I'm guilty. Guilty for running away!"

Eidolon charged ready to attack her Fang went to block it for her but it went pass her, he was aiming right at her.

"Firaga!"

The Eidolon was sent back by the powerful explosion.

"Blizzaga!"

He was frozen by tall ice crystal filled with so many sharp peaks, the many arms Eidolon broke free and it seemed to have been seriously weakened by the strong spells.

"Waterga!"

The huge wave of water hit the Eidolon sending him to the ground while the red head panted. She had less than thirty seconds now and she hoped that will be enough to stop him but she has conquered the guilt in her heart by now running away. Why feel like that when she wasn't the only who is in this mess many people are with her and they have all accepted her for who she is. Some have forgiven her for her mistake a smile spread her lips thinking about Sazh and his kindness for sparing her life at Nautilus, he couldn't go through with taking her life for being responsible for what happened to his son. She was here and she didn't regretted being born and being here, she has never felt so happy to be alive in her entire life. She noticed the doom counter has disappeared meaning that she has won the fight.

(It is done you have passed the trial of guilt).

"Finally I was so scared."

(I am Hecatoncheir, I shall give you my power in return).

"Yeah go Hecatoncheir!"

The Eidolon has changed into his gestalt mode his many arms have transformed into machine gun turrets and his body has taken a different transformation as a quadrupedal mech. Vanille happily got on the new changed Eidolon now officially having a partner for battle while Fang grinned a little at the sight. Of course she hasn't forgotten that she lied to her and that was enough to erased her thoughts and get upset.

(Vanille Dia from the village of Oerba my dear child don't ever be afraid never choose to take the burden that is guilt for someone else, it weakens and destroys one's heart. I shall fight by your side whenever you may need me).

"Thanks Hecatoncheir…."

The Eidolon suddenly vanished transforming into a turquoise semi-round crystal. It went right into her left thigh as the red head smiled that it was finally over and that she has her own Eidolon now. She turned her gaze towards Fang and that's when she realized that she didn't looked happy one bit. Remembering that she knew the truth about her after getting her memory back she knew she was in trouble now, she was obviously angry with her. No need to hide it or deny it now there was anything else she could do but prepare herself to get scolded by her friend. She waited for the lecture remaining quiet lying by now was pretty much useless her eyes fell on the ground not wanting to stare at the Pulsian's angry face.

"I knew something was off. You've been shying away from our focus ever since we woke up on Cocoon."

"I…."

"I couldn't figure it out. But then it all made sense, after hearing that story from Raines. You already knew you knew Ragnarok was the name of destruction."

"It wasn't fair. You had to do all the horrible stuff and I didn't have to do anyth-"

"That is no reason to lie to me!" she said angry.

"You think that's what I want you of all people?" she angrily raised her fist ready to hit her and the red head closed her eyes ready to received her punishment.

Fang wasn't really angry with her she only gave her a slight touch to her forehead" poor kid, you had it rough."

"Fang…."

She put her hands on girl's shoulders" listen, you're not alone anymore."

"I'm so sorry" she started sobbing.

The Pulsian immediately pulled her into a hug" keep that up and you'll have me crying soon. We have a new family now. We stick together, you hear me?"

"Just like our blood oath" Vanille said between sobs.

"Yeah like our blood oath can't forget about that, we finally found that family we we're looking for" Fang gave a smile thinking about the others.

She broke the hug smiling at the red head" come on, we've been away for too long the others are probably worried."

They started walking back while Vanille was smiling at her happy that she wasn't angry with her. Happy that they still have each other and everyone else, they were still together through good and bad. The red head felt relief that she wasn't angry with her but she still wanted to take the burden of being guilty than her. Fang already knew the truth of her actions and the horrible things she did when she became the beast of destruction. At least she knew that things will get better from here on knowing that she doesn't have to keep the truth hidden anymore, she felt like a big weight has been taken off her shoulders. She kept her smile but decided not to stay quiet she wanted to bring a topic she's wanted to talk to her friend for a while.

"Fang….?"

"I'm not angry with you if that's what you're wondering."

"It's not that. I was wondering what are you going to do about Sasuke?"

"Not following you" the Pulsian huntress was a little surprised that she brought the Uchiha into topic.

"Are you going to tell him you like him?"

"Hmm…."

"Come on Fang you obviously like him, I think everyone else can see that too."

"All right I admit I like him more than a friend, but I'm not planning in telling him."

"Why not….?" she stopped walking gazing at her looking worried.

The Pulsian huntress stood quiet in thought she remembers hearing about his past. The tragedy that fell on his clan similar to what happened to hers and Vanille's clan, lost to revenge forever being controlled by hatred. The desire to have revenge she knew how strong the feeling is she understand the craving to fulfill it everything he's been through and now with been a l'Cie. The entire focus thing didn't help either, forced by Fal'Cie to destroy Cocoon in order to summon the entity known as the Maker. There was no time for any romance neither for her or him so it was probably a waste of time, yet the thought was quite pleasant. If they weren't in this mess she wouldn't think twice of what will she decide, she smiled mentally thinking of the raven haired l'Cie.

"It's better for him to figure out what he wants. Don't want to force myself on him."

"You want him to decide?" she smiled.

"Whatever choice he makes I'll support it."

"But you do want him to say yes don't you?" the red head gave a giggle.

"That's a no brainer."

"I'm sure he feels the same too, he'll make up his mind I know he will."

"I doubt it will be easy for him…."

"What do you mean?"

"Nothing let's keep going" she chose to avoid the topic.

"Okay…."

---

(Time skip)

A couple of hours must have passed as the party resumed their journey deeper into the Subterra. Fang and Vanille joined them after the encounter with the Eidolon Hecatoncheir and the resolution between the two Pulsian sisters as they chose to honor their blood oath to stick together, and continue traveling with the rest of the l'Cie group. Now they have made up their minds for good to reach their village Oerba to find some cure to their brands, saving them from their focus. The road into the depths of Mah'habara wasn't quite easy more fights soon followed after the two Pulsians fought the many arms Eidolon, more of the same types when they first arrived at the underground tunnel system. More fights didn't hurt them much just gave them more experience and develops their strength.

They have fought their dozens of enemies like more Hoplite, Boxed Phalanx, Cryohedron, Pulsework Centurion and Rust Pudding. Most of the battles they've encountered were of monsters fighting other monsters like a pair of Rust Pudding going at it against a Pulsework Centurion and those fights were easier. Due that they have their attention on each other they don't concentrate on their surroundings and those monsters are the easiest to ambush, lowering their guard. The fought more battles in this area than when they were at the Archylte Steppe but the more battles fought it was very clear that they were reaching the deepest part of the Subterra. They had their couple of breaks to catch their breath it looked like the enemies in Mah'habara are endless and other times members of the group took turns in fighting while others heal and rest.

After a while from traveling deeper and deeper into the tunnel underground system they seemed to have reached the end of the region. Another iron platform but there was no place left to go, there weren't any enemies in the vicinity at least it wasn't a dangerous place. They gazed around searching for a path to continue moving on but there wasn't any, neither there weren't any signs of the carving Fal'Cie. While they were looking Hope spotted something familiar not too far from his position it brought him some memories as well as the nostalgic feeling. The silver haired teen left the group as he headed towards the location of the thing that caught his interest, the others still hasn't noticed he was gone. The rest headed towards the edge of the platform gazing further in the distance.

"No way through, man that Fal'Cie must have been slacking" said Sazh.

"No way were going back to the way we came" replied Naruto.

They suddenly heard a cry that belongs to the youngest member of the party. They turned to see Hope who was riding a familiar mechanical being now that sight was truly familiar to Naruto and Lightning. Both former soldiers had to sweat dropped at the nostalgic sight they have seen it before. The teen riding a Dreadnought piloting the machine to get rid of any enemies and clear any barricades to open the path, it happened during their visit to the Cocoon dead lands. They couldn't believe it was happening again that the teen found something similar as a Dreadnought although its color was different, the armor was colored gold. The blond jinchurikki gave sigh expecting for him to ride the machine and here stood the Enstheim riding it again. Another sigh came from the pink haired soldier staring at the teen piloting the mech.

"Wait stop already!"

"It's the Vile Peaks all over again" replied the former sergeant.

"Look out!" the Uzumaki saw that the mech was about to fall from the ledge.

The mech fell on the tunnel path as the silver haired teen fell off the mechanical being everyone knew he was in danger due that it was the path where Fal'Cie takes to dig. The older Farron went to the ledge and spotted the Enstheim getting up thankfully he wasn't hurt but he will be if the Fal'Cie arrives or worst.

"Hope get out of there!"

"It's not safe there!" followed the whiskered blond.

"Oh no the Atomos is coming Hope you have to get out of there now!" Vanille was panicking when she spotted the digging Fal'Cie heading to the teen's way.

"He's not going to make it!" shouted Snow.

"Not on my watch!" Naruto jumped from the ledge making a cross hand shape seal.

"Shadow clone jutsu!"

POOF!

This time blond jinchurikki has summoned twenty clones as they all got in front of the teen. Their objective was to protect the young Enstheim from getting run over by the Pulse Fal'Cie even if they all get squash by it. Just before the Atomos was just a few feet away from the shadow clones another mech of the same kind that Hope was piloting jumped down and was holding the Fal'Cie with its mechanical arms. The strength was shown obvious to be really strong since it stopped the digging being from proceeding further, Naruto along with the clones were shocked not expecting to see that from happening. The others watched the whole thing in awe not believing what they were seeing, seeing a machine that it was most likely an enemy helping one of their own was really quite shocking.

"Is he trying to stop it?"

"Looks like it and he's doing a pretty good job so far" said the real Uzumaki.

"You can do it!"

"The Juggernaut is stopping the Atomos" Vanille was also in awed at the sight.

But it wasn't over yet more Juggernauts jumped down and they all started mimicking the first one that stopping the Fal'Cie. Every single mech available were now helping each other in stopping the Atomos and they weren't stopping until the digging being was stop on his tracks. The sight made the l'Cie group looked more shocked than before so many Pulsian mechs we're doing this to actually help them as part of their cause. If it weren't for them Naruto and his shadow clones would have a hard time stopping the Fal'Cie and Hope would have probably ended up really hurt.

"What are they doing?" asked the silver haired teen.

"I think we already know they're giving each other hand to stop it. Now that's what I called teamwork" said the blond jinchurikki.

Eventually with all the effort put by the group of Juggernaut their strength combined was enough to put the Atomos to a complete halt. Everyone watched the entire thing a Fal'Cie has been stop by a group of mechs.

"Well that was cool. Go robot guys!" said Snow.

"We can finally use it to get to the other side" said Sasuke.

"Good lesson for us. Not even a mighty Fal'Cie is a match for the power of teamwork, that is inspiration right there" replied Sazh.

"Save the sermons old man, let's hop on Trailblazer here while we still have a chance" said Fang.

"Hey I approve of what Sazh said" said the whiskered blond dispelling all of the shadow clones while Vanille giggled at his comment she also seemed to agree with it too.

"Off we go!" said the cheery red head.

They group walked towards the Atomos as the hatch opened, everyone got in as the hatch closed. Entering the Fal'Cie the party noticed that it was quite wide and there was plenty of space for everyone to fit in perfectly. They heard the loud noise of the Atomos moving it started up again and they were off to another location in the lower world. They were finally doing some progress in their journey to Oerba and by now everyone has settle down, they won't have to worry about fighting monsters inside the digging Fal'Cie. Everyone has gotten comfortable inside since there was plenty of room for them to stretch good thing about this while they were taking the right path they will also take a small break. For the next couple of minutes the gang stood quiet waiting for the ride to be over until it was safe to come out.

Naruto smiled at the sight of the group resting, an idea has struck his mind and he couldn't stop thinking about it. Seeing it as an opportunity to record this pleasant moment although he ended his documentary he couldn't let this moment go. In fact he will be too stupid to pass this chance so with all his patience and making sure none of them were looking, he slipped the camera from his small backpack. The minute he was about to activate it and film the group were already staring at him with not so approving looks making the blond jinchurikki to give a nervous chuckle. Now the wisest choice to make is to put the camera back and forget about recording anything, but it didn't hurt to try and explain the occasion.

"I was thinking-"

"No filming with the camera!" everyone said in unison.

"Okay" the whiskered blond lowered his head.

"Naruto do you want me to take the camera from you?" asked Lightning in a serious tone.

"No mam'…."

"Then put it back."

"You're the boss."

Putting the camera back into the backpack the Uzumaki wasn't going to argue with the others, especially with his pink haired girlfriend. When he was done he touched something next to the piece of technology, the feeling was very familiar like he hasn't felt it in a long time. Pulling it out from the backpack his eyes widened as his cerulean eyes were on the piece of fabric cloth he was holding. It was none other than his leaf headband, the symbol that makes a shinobi of Konoha it was more than just that. But like a title that you we're a true shinobi of the hidden leaf village. It was still the same the piece of cloth colored blue and the silver metal piece with the engraved leaf symbol were still shining like it was brand new. The nostalgia was everywhere this headband was the only memento he had left from his past life.

As he stared at it he realized that it was just more than just nostalgia that he was feeling. He thought of the people of Konoha mainly the ones that we're his friends and special people. Looking at the headband made him think of the members of the rookie nine, his team, his genin teacher, his sensei and other people who are important to him. For this first time in years he missed his home village because he was looking at his headband, it brought him all those memories back that he has been suppressing for so long. A smile has spread his lips touching the metallic piece of the headband, right in the center of the leaf symbol. His eyes have softened there were just too many memories that were been brought by a simple accessory that goes on a forehead, memories that mean everything to him.

"Iruka sensei can you please let me wear your headband?" said the twelve year old Naruto with his hands in a praying position so that he agrees as both we're having some ramen at Ichiraku.

The chunin teacher gave a small smile but shook his head touching his headband" sorry Naruto but you can only wear one when you pass the graduation exam."

"Come on don't be mean" replied the stubborn teen.

"Is that why you didn't wear your goggles today?" Iruka saw right through him the reason why he didn't brought his usual goggles, so he can be wearing the leaf headband instead a better replacement indeed.

The Uzumaki pouted blushing a little looking as stubborn as ever" I want another bowl!"

"Sure thing" the chunin gave a laugh.

"Yeah I remember how badly I wanted to wear one" he happily traced his fingers on the metallic piece.

"Can I open my eyes now Iruka sensei?"

"Yeah you can open them now."

The whiskered teen opened his eyes only to see Iruka without his headband. Yet the chunin teacher was smiling at him very proud of his actions, for saving against the traitor Mizuki, for taking back the forbidden scroll of sealing and most importantly for learning the shadow clone jutsu.

"Congratulations you graduate!"

The Uzumaki was shocked realizing that he was the one who was wearing the chunin's headband just like he requested once at Ichiraku. He touched the metallic piece proving that he was really wearing it and that he wasn't dreaming, he really did it he really graduated and has become an official genin of Konoha. All the years training hard sweating till no end and all the endless trial and error he witnessed, every single he went through punishing his body have all been worth it. Tears were now forming he felt so relief, so happy and proud that this days has arrived and the only thing he could do was hug the first person who acknowledged him.

"Iruka sensei!"

"That was my biggest achievement ever I would never forget it…."

By now the group has taken notice to the headband he was holding. Sasuke looked surprise to see the familiar accessory from their village he never thought the whiskered blond still had it. Then again he did decide to keep his headband as a memento of his home village and his past life, including the life of an avenger. There was a lot in Naruto's eyes many emotions as he stood with a small smile on his face, but sorrow and some grief were reflected in his cerulean eyes. It was worrying some of the members of the l'Cie group especially Lightning, the pink haired soldier stood next to him and she couldn't stand seeing that expression in his eyes. It felt like a different kind of Naruto and that wasn't the person she has come to know and love and that wasn't the real Uzumaki, at least that's what she thought.

"What's that?" Hope finally asked the question staring at the headband.

"This is a headband from my village, it holds a lot of sentimental value" the whiskered blond has given a sincere smile.

"Your village….?" Sazh was confused.

"Wait a minute what do you mean your village, you and Sasuke are from Cocoon?" followed Snow.

"Oh that's right you guys don't know anything. After everything that has happened I haven't taken the time to tell you."

"You're going to tell them?" Lightning knew the whiskered blond was planning to tell them about his place of origin and what he is.

"Yeah I think they have a right to know everything I trust them all."

"All right…." She gave a nod respecting his choice it was better this way for them to understand where he comes from and what he's been through.

"You don't have a problem about that Sasuke?"

"I see nothing wrong with it" replied the Uchiha not bothered if the blond tells them everything including the Kyuubi, however as for himself telling them about his past that was another story.

"First of all me and Sasuke, we're not from Cocoon."

"What?" asked the NORA leader?

"Okaaay not from Cocoon, that's not a big shock to me" said the afro haired pilot.

"Are you guys from Pulse then?" said Hope.

"Really….?" Vanille was shocked.

"We're not from Pulse either."

"Oh…."

"Now I'm confused" said the afro haired gunner.

"That makes two of us" replied the tall trench coat blond.

"Three with me" said the young Enstheim.

"I'll be four" said the red head.

"Just explain everything so they can understand" said Fang.

"All right this will be a long story so listen up."

---

(Time skip)

Minutes have passed as the Atomos was still traveling through the underground tunnel system of the Subterra. In those minutes the members of the l'Cie group have heard a lot of information coming from the blond jinchurikki, it was quite an amount of information that it was too hard to swallow. Naruto told them everything about his place of birth and his life as a shinobi of Konoha after graduating from shinobi academy. His missions with team seven and the most important secret of his life that he was the container of the nine tails demon fox the Kyuubi. The first part that he and Sasuke we're from another world away from Cocoon and Pulse was impossible to believe. Believing that he was the container of a powerful demon that could outmatch the Fal'Cie and even Ragnarok strength was the cream of the crop.

He told them about his childhood how he lived those years of his life being shunned and hated by the villagers and this part was the one Lightning hated to hear the most. She couldn't stand to hear the pain and suffering the Uzumaki had to endure for being a jinchurikki something he never asked for, it was no different than being branded as an l'Cie or hated for being one. The whiskered blond has basically told them everything except Sasuke's betrayal and their fight at the Valley of the End, he kept that a secret for now he wasn't ready to tell them that yet which the Uchiha didn't said a word about it. He opened up to the group without regretting his decision they have been through a lot as a team and they were on the same side and goal, so he saw nothing wrong with telling them more about himself. Especially when he already knows about their personal lives from the interview of his documentary it was all right to tell them.

The reaction of the group was quite obvious or predictable once the Uzumaki finished telling the story. Hope stood with wide eyes shocked probably beyond disbelief, Vanille was in the same reaction but here green eyes were filled with so much pity, Sazh had both his eyes and mouth wide open, Snow was shocked with a combination of dumbfound and Fang looked in disbelief more than the time Sasuke told her that he was from another world just like blond jinchurikki. Their expression said many meanings that either they didn't believe him, or we're just too shocked from hearing the most tragic and saddest story they could possibly hear. Sasuke stood quiet the same with Lightning like the whiskered blond they waited for everyone to hear their opinion and reactions from this, even if they already had an idea of it.

"They don't believe me I'm sure of it."

"That's it before I knew me and Sasuke ended up in Cocoon and that's when we met Light and Serah and we became close. We started living together with them and we we're all a happy family. A few years later we went to the Sanctum military academy and after that well you guys will know the rest."

"Riiiight" said the sarcastic Sazh.

"You guys don't believe me?"

"Of course not you really want us to believe all of that, you sound like you hit your head too hard."

"You and Sasuke are from another world that doesn't exist here. No offense Naruto but that's too hard to believe sorry buddy" said Snow.

"Like I wasn't expecting you guys will believe me."

"I believe you mate, Sasuke already told me he's from another world so I'm not that surprise" said Fang.

"What about that part of you having a monster in you, that's crazy. That's all wacko" said the afro haired pilot.

"Wait Naruto then that thing at the Gapra Whitewood" Hope remembered the monster the whiskered blond became back at the bio research facility.

"Yeah that was me being taken over by the fox, I lost control back there. But there's nothing to worry about the seal that keeps it from escaping has been fixed so everything is all right."

*I will eventually break out when the seal weakens again* the demon fox gave an evil grin.

"How exactly the seal was fixed?" asked Sasuke out of curiosity.

"The fourth fixed it he sealed part of his soul in me to help me just in case the seal weakens" the whiskered blond chose to leave the detail of the fourth being his father for now.

"…" the Uchiha only gave a nod understanding the explanation.

"I don't understand a word you just said" said the afro haired gunner looking more confused.

"I believe you, I saw it with my own eyes what that monster can do. I mean I wasn't talking about you Naruto" Hope got nervous not wanting to call him by the term of monster.

"It's okay I know you were talking about the fox."

"I believe you too" Vanille said.

"You do?" the blond jinchurikki was surprised she said it so quickly.

"I know you would never lie, you're very strong to be able to go on without thinking that you might hurt others" the red head gasp at what she said thinking she made a big mistake in what she said.

"I always thinking about that but I don't have to be afraid as long as I believe in myself and to have friends like you guys."

"Might as well believe you, being a 'Jinchurikki' like you called it it's no laughing matter" replied the Pulsian huntress.

"It's like having Ragnarok in you and he could take over you anytime and here I thought there was nothing worse than being an l'Cie, boy I was wrong" the thought seemed to scare her endlessly.

"A powerful evil monster was sealed in you when you we're just a baby, I'm with Sazh on this one. This is all too hard to swallow" said the NORA leader.

"Light you already knew?" asked Hope.

"He told me a while back, I hold nothing against him for what happened when that thing took a hold of him" replied the former sergeant.

"In our village the life of a jinchurikki is unfair, I was constantly looked down by everyone from the village it's the same thing with being an l'Cie, and it was the same treatment. With time I found people that became close to me and they were the ones to acknowledge as a person and not as a monster. I'm happy because I was able to find people like that in this world, being in Cocoon was the best thing that could ever happened to us I have no regrets."

"You sure you're an l'Cie now?" asked Sazh.

"I'm already a jinchurikki and I was hated before I became an l'Cie so I know how it feels longer than you guys, and besides being an l'Cie wasn't so bad I was able to meet all of you. I met people from Pulse and they're cool people, not that's I'm happy being an l'Cie and all."

"Things aren't so bad most of them don't believe you" Sasuke couldn't help but give a grin.

"Best of all there's no hate among us" replied the pink haired soldier.

"That's right we all the same and none of us hate you for what was done to you" said Vanille.

"You're still my friend" said the silver haired teen.

"As crazy as your story sounds you're still my buddy" replied Snow.

"Same here l'Cie has to stick together" said Fang.

"What they said" said the afro haired pilot.

"That's why you and Sasuke can do those other techniques, because you guys are from another world" said the young Enstheim.

"Yeah as shinobi we can perform jutsu, it's like the magic version from this world when we got branded we couldn't do jutsu our chakra reserves were locked" replied the whiskered blond.

"Chakra….?" asked the red head.

As the group wanted to hear more explanation about jutsu and the concept that is chakra the Atomos has finally stopped.

"Looks like we have reached our stop" said Lightning.

"Yep, I'll explain about chakra while we're traveling."

As they started leaving the digging Fal'Cie Naruto was smiling feeling so ever grateful that he told his life story to them. Most didn't believed him but it was all right if they will understand with time it felt good to tell them, to reveal personal information to people he truly trusts. Maybe someday Sasuke might do the same thing by telling him about his past, so far Fang was the only one who knows of his tragic life. As they left he noticed Lightning staring at him with a small smile on her face, looks like she was happy that he chose to tell them. Just like she said there was no hatred towards him for being a jinchurikki it only made him to trust them more, maybe the reason is because they trusted him the same way too. He won't have to keep the truth hidden anymore during the rest of the journey after all, and that was enough for him.

---

To be continued

Like I promised I release the next chapter before the 31st HELL YEAH ONLY 3 DAYS UNTIL XIII-2 IS RELEASE! *clears throat* sorry about that I got a little too excited but I can't help it. There Naruto has told the group the truth about everything I think the time was perfect, as for Sasuke that will be further ahead in the story. Word of warning that things will get hot again in the next chapter especially between Sasuke and Fang *hiding perverted grin* ahem well I did said I have plans for them and also I will add some hot stuff between Naruto and Lightning while I'm at it. Oh it's so fun to tease as always thank you very much for the reviews and everyone who are putting the story on alert list and favorite list, keep the reviews coming. I will see you all next time farewell!

Next time: The concept of chakra time for some training