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.

35. Desperate times desperate measures

Disclaimer: you know by now you all get the memo that I don't own Naruto and FFXIII they are the property of Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura. But I have to continue saying this annoying disclaimer.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

** Communications through phones and radio

(Bold and Parenthesis Eidolons speaking)

*Kyuubi speaking*

---

Chapter 35 Desperate times desperate measures

(Location: Sulyva spring Subterra Gran Pulse)

Snow was standing on a small hill that was not too far from the cave that reaches the spring. Around him was falling small cotton ball like flowers, they float silently as their destination was unknown. The NORA leader seemed to be in deep thought while not focusing on his surroundings his blue eyes were on the crystal tear shape crystal. It was either that or the planet floating above him and Pulse, the world of Cocoon his thoughts we're filled of flashbacks. It's been so long since they arrived at the Pulsian world and with each day that passes by, he couldn't stop thinking about Serah. He missed the young Farron, he loved her dearly she was his fiancée and one minute without her by his side was pure torture. It reminded him of her tragic fate and his failure to keep his promise to her, it was painful but he couldn't stop thinking about the pink haired girl.

She became an l'Cie and she was now turned to crystal for fulfilling her focus, in his head remembering Dysley's words. To gather the tools for Cocoon's destruction he believed it but he hasn't lost Hope he heard the young Farron's voice in his head her last words before crystallization. Save Cocoon she chose him along with the rest of the group to save their world, better to believe her than a Sanctum Fal'Cie who was fooling every citizen through his disguise. She was still up there still in her crystal slumber, she was still guarded under the Cavalry's care and he knew they will take good care of her. He started missing everyone from NORA the group could take care of themselves but he still had a right to miss them and get worry. Wishing everything can go back to the way it was before this whole mess started, hanging up with his gang and his girlfriend, now his bride to be. His eyes went back to the crystal tear shape and thought of only her, wishing he can communicate to her through the crystal tear.

Lightning arrived staring at the trench coat blond it looked like she was reading his mind. It was predictable he was thinking of her younger sister because he was holding her crystal tear, it was a memento from Serah and as a symbol to never give up in what they believe in. He wasn't the only one she missed her dearly she had to worst that she became an l'Cie and turned to crystal. She was up there with the Sanctum who we're their enemies because of a misunderstanding, once she heard the truth from both Dysley and Raines. They had no choice to fight to survive and find a way to end their fate as l'Cie from fulfilling their focus to bring an end to Cocoon. She could give a crap about any focus the only thing that matters to her is to rescue her sister, and to see her again alive and smiling at her. Like nothing has happened she wanted to be there for her and just forget about all of this happening and get back to their normal lives.

Besides missing her she was still feeling guilty for not believing her even if she was determined to save her. Naruto has helped her get through the guilt but it wasn't that easy to erase, until she apologizes to her sister she won't be able to rest easy. Replaying that moment in her mind hurt her so much, that day on her birthday when Serah was about to broke down with telling her the truth she's been keeping from her. She was an Pulse l'Cie and it broke her heart that she let stubbornness get in the way with not believing her, seeing as an excuse to marry Snow. The she crossed the line with threatening her to take her out if she really was an l'Cie, obviously she was going to do such monstrosity. The flashback was still hurting her, she erased the painful memory and walked towards the NORA leader passing him by, he was still gazing at the crystal tear.

"How's Serah?" she walked ahead spotting one of the cotton ball flowera approaching her.

"Same as we left her."

She gently opened her palm to receive the soft ball but it dispersed away before it made contact with her hand. Gazing into the distance this area was probably the most beautiful sight of Pulse she has come to adjust to the wildlife style of the planet, and has come to appreciate its beauty. To think before this entire thing happened she would never dream of coming here, not even if her life depended on it. She didn't believed the crazy rumors of the world below them as filled with fire but she consider it to be hell, of course like everyone else from the group she has changed her opinion. She didn't mind the hungry wildlife she would sharpen her skills and get some food at the same time, two for the price of one. This view was perfect and she wouldn't to stay here for a while, one she would enjoy with a certain whiskered blond.

"Feel so far away now. Serah says she wants to talk" he handed her the crystal tear.

Touching the crystal she gazed through it staring at the floating Cocoon, the view was beautiful as it was reflected through the color of the crystal. The clear blue color really fit well with the scenery and for a moment she could feel her sister's presence with hold the tear. This is what Snow whenever he hold onto it, she was right there and it was obvious why both of them would communicate with her. It was like having a regular conversation with the younger Farron, it was comfortable holding it. Most of her thoughts guilt we're erased but there was still one thing bothering her eyes we're on the tall blond. Remembering the current engagement between him and her sister it was official they were engage and the necklaces we're proof of that. In the beginning she was against such thing but now her thoughts we're different, her eyes hardened feeling a bit upset.

The NORA leader has grabbed a cotton shape flower gently not wanting to break it up" she'd probably prefer if you skipped the lectures."

The pink haired soldier has sliced the cotton flower making the trench coat blond to fall down from the sudden shock that he wasn't expecting to get attacked" hey!"

"Once we're home, what's your plan? You're getting married right?"

"What's that?" the blond was surprised that she has brought his engagement with the young Farron.

"Serah wants to know" she hold downed her gun blade staring at the crystal tear.

"Don't scare me like that…."

"You're getting married, aren't you? Don't you let her down, you hear me?" she throw him back the crystal tear.

He caught it feeling confident hearing her words" don't worry. This tear will be her last. I'll make sure of that."

"That's all I need to know" she felt better now believing he can make her sister happy when failed to do so, at least that's what she thinks she started walking away taking a few steps from the NORA leader.

As Snow lowered the crystal tear thoughts came racing in his head. Their l'Cie brands, their focus, Dysley's words, Ragnarok, Orphan, Cocoon's destruction. Too many things came to him like a fierce storm and for the first time he felt scared, worried that things won't go as he wants. The fear of becoming Cie'th, that everyone in Cocoon will die as sacrifice to bring the Maker from vanquishing Orphan, that they might become crystal and never awake again. Nothing compared to his biggest fear that he might never see Serah again, his fiancée and the woman he loves. He was feeling negative which it wasn't in his nature, he always say things in a positive light along with his optimistic nature. Right now he was thinking otherwise so many things have happened and the most obvious thing to do is to give up, even with everyone having faith that they will find the answers they were searching for.

"We will see her, right?"

"Don't go there. No room for doubt" Lightning has punched him slightly from behind.

"You're right" he felt so stupid to think the opposite.

"We'll see her again. And soon you convinced me of that. So stay strong."

"Don't worry. We'll finish this, and go see her together."

The older Farron gave a soft smile she finally got through to him a negative Snow was just un-realistic. She took a few steps resting her head on his back and one thing they had in common, that both care deeply for Serah. Both we're suffering for not having her here, for being in this mess now sleeping in crystal. Not thinking selfishly she was suffering even more as she remembers the last time she talked to her sister, at her birthday party. The pink haired woman rested her head on his back a little tighter the pain came back, her harsh words how she wished she had never said such words. She wished she wasn't so stubborn in not believing her and for denying the truth lay before, she wished she would have trusted her own sister and she wished she wouldn't be feeling this guilt haunting her since that day. She wished she wouldn't have hurt her feelings by threatening her, thinking about that day hurt her enough to make her cry although she didn't shed a tear.

"Please Snow. Don't ever lose hope, you and Naruto gave me so much of it. Don't start losing faith in what you believe in…."

"For a moment I was, not anymore. What was I thinking? Of course we'll see Serah again."

"Right" she smiled removing her head from his back.

"Wish I could stay here a little longer" the blond gaze back at the crystal tear.

"Same with me, but we have to get back to the others."

"Oerba" the NORA leader reminded her of their journey to find the Pulsian village.

The former sergeant nodded no more needed to be said, they both had faith that they will see Serah again. Both l'Cie turned to leave the beautiful landscape as they walked down the hill looking in deep thought but confident that their journey won't be for nothing. Snow gazed at the pink haired soldier something was really different about her all right, the expression in her eyes she has changed indeed. He remembered how she used to be when he first met her, her aqua eyes we're cold as ice and she emitted such a strong killer aura. At least that was when she was around him she was the cold soldier Lightning always by the book. But this person next to him her aura was warm, the coldness from her eyes the ice seemed to have melted with time. This woman was different she was no longer the Lightning that destroys and doesn't protect now he understood why she chose for others to refer to her as Light.

"So what's with the sudden change of mind?" he finished with soft chuckle.

"What do you mean?"

"Last I checked you would prefer to see me dead than marrying Serah."

"Things changed Snow, for better or worse. I realized a lot of my mistakes, not trusting you and giving you a chance are one of them and also not trusting Serah. It was my biggest mistake not to trust my sister and now I'm paying for it."

"I guess that means you trust me now huh?"

"But make no mistake. You break Serah's heart-"

"That will never happen Lightning I promise not make her shed another tear. Like I said this will be the last one" he showed her the crystal tear.

"Good, I don't want to kill my brother in law" she gave a nod in approval.

"Looks like there's still some of the old Lightning inside after all" The trench coat blond gave a smirk.

"Guys we're heading out now!"

"Was it Naruto that convinced you?" he smiled spotting the whiskered blond in the distance happily waving at them.

"He's part of the reason, the rest I did a lot of thinking while we've been struggling in this mess. This l'Cie experience has really opened my eyes maybe it was for the better."

"It will be for the better. We'll break this curse, save Cocoon and we'll save Serah."

"Everyone will agree, even that smart idiot" the older Farron gazing at her boyfriend who ran to them looking very eager.

"Come on you guys. Fang said that Oerba isn't too far now."

"Good news already, best way to begin the day" said the NORA leader.

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Amodar's house residential district Bodhum inner rim Cocoon)

It was just another day in the former GC lieutenant's home and it has become quite a boring routine for the older man. He still hasn't regretted his decision from quitting the Guardian Corps but he has rarely done anything in these past months, he was getting sick of all this boring life. The rest of Cocoon was doing all right quite frankly they were acting like nothing ever happened ever since they found out the l'Cie we're in Pulse. He thought it was pitiful acting like there was never a Purge to begin with and all the innocent lives by the massacre quarantine. But no l'Cie in Cocoon meant peace has returned to their world and everything will be safe now, except here. What remained of the people of Bodhum that survived the Purge thanks to the efforts of NORA has decided to leave and find another place to live. He couldn't blame them for leaving and he was probably among the few who were trying to live here and make a living.

They will probably rather live in the sewerage system than back here, the seaside city has changed completely after what happened with the Vestige and the Fal'Cie. It wasn't the same anymore it's like it lost his entire splendor and beauty, the Sanctum wasn't going to bother handling the people that left since it has nothing to do with the l'Cie fugitives. The former lieutenant was seated in his small couch giving a sigh he was feeling so useless that he didn't do nothing to stop the Purge except walked out from his military status while civilians got killed as well as military personal. Staring at a bookshelf there we're some of his photos considered his precious memories, there was one that caught his attention. The one of himself with some members of the GC, it made him smile. He was on the middle with Lightning on the left, Naruto on the right and Janil and Aidan on opposite sides, those were good old memories.

"Wish I could play quiz trivia with those four again. Farron was always the one that got the questions correct."

A smile came to his face remembering some good memories with the four GC members. The former lieutenant left the area as he went outside to check his mail. The front door slid open, he checked the mail box it was medium size with a small hatch. Opening he saw there was a letter and he couldn't believe there will be some mail since the last he checked for any correspondence was two weeks ago. Looks like the mail was being slow on business, or maybe they were still getting over of the l'Cie incident trying to live in peace and resume their daily duties. Not that he blame them, the Sanctum military was still checking in every corner of the cities for any l'Cie activity. Cocoon wasn't the same since the Pulse Fal'Cie was discovered at the Vestige, the people will have a hard time getting back to the way things we're.

The former GC soldier went back inside giving the newly letter a thoughtful gaze, checking on the description written on the front. There wasn't any which made him suspicious leading him to believe that it wasn't the official mail man who put the letter, someone else was responsible. Either someone was playing a mean prank at him or maybe the mail forgot to give it an approval seal, no description and no stamp whatsoever. The main had nothing to do with this letter at all opening it won't wise to do it only brought his curiosity his name was written on the back. Not giving it anymore thought he opened it there we're two things one was a small piece of paper and the other a small device. He recognized it being with the military for years, it was a holographic communicator used to record or to bring messages. Opening the small paper he raised an eyebrow that there we're only four words written in it.

"The truth of Cocoon…."

"What could this be about?" the older man has gotten curious with the small message.

Only one way to find out his eyes we're back on the small holographic piece. He activated it without thinking too curious to know the meaning behind the message. As the device was activated his eyes went wide the first thing he saw was the Lightning, Naruto, Snow and Sasuke accompanied by a group of people he didn't recognize. The setting was familiar to him he has seen it before, it made sense that it was no doubt the bridge area of the Sanctum ship the Palamecia. He figured out they were all members of the l'Cie group but he saw there was another person present, his eyes on the elderly man as he recognized primarch Dysley too. The next thing that happened shocked him beyond words as he saw the primarch attacking the crew members of the ship including stabbing lieutenant colonel Naabat. He couldn't believe it that the primarch of the Sanctum has killed his own people.

"What in Fal'Cie's name…."

The next thing that happened in the holographic video shocked him even more as Dysley revealed to the l'Cie group a true revelation that left him speechless. The truth of Cocoon and the reason for humans to inhabit the floating world and it made sense to the former Corps lieutenant. Another thing that shocked him when primarch transformed into a mechanical being and the revelation that he was a Fal'Cie named Barthandelus, now this one took the take never suspecting that he was a Sanctum Fal'Cie all along. He witnessed the great battle between the Fal'Cie and the l'Cie group that eventually they won but he knew Dysley was holding back. And finally he heard the explanation from the primarch of one of them to become Ragnarok and they were made l'Cie with the purpose to destroy Cocoon. He thought he heard wrong but it was no lie primarch Dysley, the man respected by every Cocoon citizens supports that Ragnarok lays waste to their world.

"All of this…."

After the video hologram was finished Amodar stood in deep thought that he actually forgot that it was over. So many questions we're running through his head at what to think about the video he just witnessed. There was first some doubt, if he should believe what he just saw if it was all true. He has always thought there was something about the primarch that didn't felt right but he didn't doubt that everything he did was for the sake of the people of Cocoon. After watching his opinion changed the reality hit him, Dysley was lying to the people, to everyone. Deceiving the same people he's supposed to protect and support, he was a Sanctum Fal'Cie supporting the focus of their world's destruction. He took a deep breath as he decided to lay down by taking a seat on his small couch. The older man was still holding the device his eyes went to the envelope checking if there was more information aside of his name but there was nothing else.

"Who sent this? Can I take the risk of believing it?"

He ran a hand through his hair his face was covered in sweat from the shock of the revelation" I knew the Sanctum wasn't perfect but this…this is crazy. If this turns out to be true then Cocoon is in for a rude awakening."

After a couple of minutes he chose to take the device with him as he left his home, the questions we're still endless" that's it, I need a drink…."

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Taejin's tower the Palisades Gran Pulse)

The l'Cie group has finally resumed their journey leaving the Suliva spring and their direction has leaded them to a rocky region. It was a bit of a surprise the area was only surrounded by rocks completely different to the places they have traveled in Pulse, most of them were filled with plant life and vegetation. Even in the underground Subterra of Mah'habara there we're signs of green life, this was very much new for the rest that have never travel to the Pulsian world. Fang and Vanille we're keeping in check that they were the ones guiding the others as being natural born on the lower world, they knew the path to take to their village. None we're expecting a very happy place aware of how many years it's been since they awoke from their crystal sleep. Both we're right in their sense of direction they weren't too far from reaching their home.

The gang we're all stronger than ever after going through the chakra training exercise. Naruto and Sasuke has taught them the basics of chakra which none of them knew of the existence of chakra and its importance. Through a painful and hard training the members of Cocoon and Pulse learned that it wasn't easy to master the chakra inside of them, they learned the hard way. After failing, falling countless times from trees and freezing spring water they have managed to learn the exercise, climbing on trees using their feet as well as walking on water. It took them more than a week to master both exercises but it was worth it, each felt like they have grown strong. The same feeling when they keep fighting that their abilities as l'Cie grow, the stronger they got the better. They were still dangerous creatures out there they needed to be prepare for anything that comes their way.

Soon they reached a rocky area with the ground a different color. No longer the green from the strong Pulsian vegetation reaching a different area, it could only mean that they were getting somewhere. Trusting the two Pulsians with them thinking that they were leading to the right path towards their village, by now they already trusted them. These were times to trust each other even if they were from the lower world, no hatred among them if they were all sharing the same fate. They climbed a small hill that lead to the largest wide space in the desert like rocky region. The first thing that brought their view was a very tall tower that the top that was split broken and if it wasn't that, it was probably tall enough to reach the sky. The designs of the tower were obviously Pulsian since no one from Cocoon has seen nothing like it. Judging from the path they were taking Fang and Vanille already knew where they were heading.

"That thing is huge, talk about a high tower!" Naruto said in awe.

"We get through there, and we'll reach Oerba" said the red head.

"Crossing the tower...?" said Sasuke.

"You're almost home" followed Snow.

"Yep!"

"Doesn't it look like it's gonna be a leisurely stroll" Sazh said staring at the flying creatures passing around the tower.

A snake like monsters passed them so suddenly. With the way it was flying around it looked like it was the one in charge of the area. It was similar to the monsters that attacked them when they were on the Pulsian ship on their way here.

"A Fal'Cie!" said Vanille.

"Oh, so we just head through this Fal'Cie's lair to get to Oerba, right?" said Hope.

"What's another Fal'Cie at this point, huh?" said Lightning as the snake like Fal'Cie entered the tower through the split top but not before firing an attack hitting one of the flying monsters.

"He's in a bad mood" replied the whiskered blond.

"Of course we're going to pass through his turf, he doesn't want l'Cie visiting him" Fang said.

Resuming their path they spotted a monster and they weren't surprised. In the part of Pulse it was strange that they haven't meet one since they left the Sulyvan spring area. Taking a good look at the creature it was quite grotesque in appearance it was colored silver with disfigured forms on its face and legs, it had the resemblance of a silver lobo but lacking the entire physical characteristics. Naruto took the honors to scan the monster with libra it was called managarmr. It can employ powerful lightning attacks and it was capable of inflicting curse and imperil, no need to think what to do next. It was only one and eight of them so Sasuke and the Uzumaki took charge to attack it, feeling confident that they can defeat it without the help of the others. Drawing their weapons the Uchiha perform a quick strike hurting it and the blond jinchurikki used his Flashflare saber in gun mode firing a few rounds.

The managarmr recovered as it saw a target that weren't its attackers, it charged straight at Lightning. The pink haired soldier was unfazed as she unsheathed her Blazefire saber ready to attack it, she was surprised as the monster released some smoke from its breath. Naruto was quick he jumped in taking the putrid smoke from the monster preventing the older Farron from getting caught, while the Uchiha took the chance and cast ardor. The blue fire was enough to burn and destroyed the managarmr falling death, killed by the powerful fire spell. The whiskered blond got up coughing a little from the monster's breath attack, at least the former sergeant was all right. However as he turned to the pink haired woman he took a step back, her expression gave him chills to his spine. Everyone else has gathered as Sasukes sheathed back Masamune and the poor Uzumaki was death scare at Lightning's face. She looked upset and it was probably because he protected her from the managarmr's breath attack.

"Why did you do that?"

"That monster was going to attack you."

"And your point….?" She crossed her arms looking annoyed.

"Light I saved you" the Uzumaki sweat dropped.

"Oh boy I smell trouble in paradise again" thought Sazh.

"Naruto you know very well I can handle myself, I was ready to attack that monster. There was no need for you to try and protect me."

"I…I guess I move on instinct. Sorry about that."

"You don't have to always jump in and protect me, I can take care of myself. Just worry about yourself" her tone was harsh but she couldn't help she was irritated with his actions.

"I….I'm sorry Light."

"Don't apologize it's the truth."

"Ouch I felt that hit" Snow rubbed his chest like he actually felt the blow from her words.

The blond jinchurikki sighed as he walked out taking the lead. By now the pink haired soldier realized her mistake, she didn't mean it and yet she was mean to him. She was frustrated that once again he jumped in to protect her from harm it always put her in a bad mood. She dislikes to be protected by others because she saw it as a weakness, making her look like she was weak and that she couldn't defend herself. She was strong and she was very confident of her skills and even more now that she's an l'Cie, she wasn't alone she knew this but the others shouldn't try to be their shield in the middle of a fight. Especially if it was her boyfriend she didn't approve of being protected by him because of her concern for him as much as she has come to care for her companions, she didn't wanted their protection. Now she was angry due to carelessness she has screwed up again and hurt his feelings.

"Damn it you did it again Lightning, way to go" she tightened her fist she was hurt too.

"That was a bit cold don't you think?" Fang turned to her.

"Let's move."

The rest of the group followed the whiskered blond while Hope followed looking worried. Hearing her words they were harsh and Naruto didn't deserve it knowing he wanted to protect her because he cares for her a lot, everyone from the group knew that. He wondered why she behaved like that when it came. Why would she act like that he knew she was strong and they knew she will be able to fight the monster without anyone's help? It was confusing they were all in this together and as friends they needed to look out for each other. And apparently the former GC sergeant didn't understand that the reason they have survived this journey so far it was because they have each other, as a team. The silver haired was concern for their friendship they were so close he didn't wanted them to have problems that might complicate their relationship.

"Why did Light do that?"

"You'll understand when you get a little older" Sazh put a hand on his shoulder.

Naruto walked feeling a little hurt with his girlfriend's words but she was right that she was strong enough to take care of one monster. This was Lightning Farron former sergeant of the Guardian Corps she was basically invincible, as an l'Cie she was unstoppable. His thoughts were interrupted as he suddenly felt his body getting hot and everything around him was started to move rapidly. He felt so dizzy his body wasn't reacting normally and he definitely wasn't feeling good, it's like he was sick. Now that he thought about it this was actually the first time he has felt such even when he was at Konoha he never got a sickness in his entire life. There was a first time for everything but this wasn't what he had in mind. Soon the rest of the l'Cie group was able to tell something was wrong with him with the way he was moving. He was tripping slightly and it was anyone's guess if he falls down for real.

"You okay Naruto?" Vanille was the first to ask yet Lightning looked worried sick thinking that she really hurt him with her words.

"I'm okay you guys, it's noth-"

"Naruto!" shouted the pink haired soldier.

Everyone rushed as the Uzumaki has suddenly collapsed on the ground. The former sergeant was the first to check on him, his heart was beating that was a good sign. But his body felt so hot he was panting hard, his face was full of sweat to her it looked like he was under a heavy fever. As the group checked on him the two Pulsian we're the first to react to the blonds condition, it was very familiar to them. They have seen these symptoms before especially after just fighting a managarmr, the creature was the cause of the blond jinchurikki's current condition. Vanille gave Fang a worried look while the female warrior nodded both of them knew this wasn't any good. The others just didn't know what was wrong with him. Like Lightning they believed it was an intense fever but they couldn't be too sure of it. While the older Farron was so worried for this happening to him so sudden when he was just fine a minute ago the first thing she did was to blame herself for this, but it wasn't helping her figure out his condition.

"What's wrong with him? Naruto you okay buddy?" said Snow.

"He's really burning up" followed Hope.

"This is not good, son here looks like he was put on an oven" replied the afro haired gunner.

"Naruto answer me please" the former sergeant pleaded her expression said it all how concerned she really is.

"He's like this after we recently fought that monster" Sasuke concluded.

"Yeah the managarmr is to blame for this. Naruto is under curse. He got it after inhaling its smoke breath" said Fang.

"Curse…then I'll cure it" the older Faron was about to cast a healing spell.

"That won't do you any good. Esuna won't cure him. The curse from the managarmr acts like a deadly poison, no healing magic will be able to counter it."

"Then what do we do? You guys know how to cure it?" asked the NORA leader.

"I doubt the nine tails will be able to heal the poison" thought the Uchiha.

"We do know."

"That's right. The people from my clan figure it out. The nectar from the Alachillis flower will be able to cure him" said Vanille.

"Alachillis…where do we get it?" asked the silver haired teen.

"The flowers grown in Oerba, but we have no idea how our village must looked after five hundred years. The Alachillis probably might not grow there anymore and that's a big "if"" said the Pulsian hunter.

"Is there another way to get it?" asked the Uchiha.

"There is. When we passed Mah'habara there was a small field of the Alachillis. We can get the flower there" replied the red head.

"So it's back to Mah'habara" said Sazh.

"Looks like it" followed the trench coat blond.

"I'll go to Mah'habara to get the flower, I know exactly where to go" said the red head Pulsian.

"I'm going with you. I want to help Naruto" Hope volunteered.

"Thanks!"

"I'll go too" Lightning finally spoke still holding the blond jinchurikki.

"I think right now Naruto needs you" said Fang.

"How long does he have before the poison…." The older Farron didn't want to finish the sentence.

"A day or two, it depends how strong his defenses are."

"All right then I'll go with you guys. I'll make sure to keep an eye on you two" Snow was second to volunteer.

"Oh no, last time you did it was nothing but trouble. I'm coming too, I already have a record for looking after Vanille" Sazh recalled when he was traveling with her.

"Sure, all right let's go find that flower to cure Naruto."

"Don't want to sound hasty but you guys better hurry up. The poison will get worst as the hours pass" said the Pulsian warrior.

"Right we'll be right back Fang."

The four members of the group left as Lightning, Fang and Sasuke chose to stay with the downed Uzumaki. Lightning was only staring at the whiskered blond wrapping her arms around him not wanting to let him go. Finally understanding that it was her fault he was poisoned by the managarmr's breath when he chose to take the attack for her. She felt terrible than before after saying those harsh words to him and now this happens, she was worried and hurting. It amazes her how much she can screw up even when she doesn't want to make another mistake with what happened to her sister was enough now this happens. Sasuke and Fang stared at her like they could read her mind she was probably feeling like crap right now after this has happened to the whiskered blond. It was clear by now that they won't be going anywhere as long as the blonds was in this condition, so they will have to postpone their journey to the tower.

"Just when those two were having such a great relationship this happens. Now I will have to hear Light's mopping and her guilt too" the Pulsian huntress gave a sigh.

"It's going to be a long day" said Sasuke.

"You said it."

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Security administration facility Eden inner rim Cocoon)

Rosh saluted two PSICOM soldiers as he enters the large building that it was in charge of basically all technology in the capital. He walked the halls in deep thought with the feeling that it felt like it was yesterday when they discovered the Pulse Fal'Cie at the Vestige in Bodhum. Since the Purge started and the beginning of the hunt for the l'Cie that were branded by said Fal'Cie, yet peace and tranquility seems to have returned to their world. It's been almost a month since they gathered the information that the l'Cie has left Cocoon and straight to the lower world of Pulse. There wasn't anything to worry or fear about yet the PSICOM colonel felt uneasy that this wasn't the end that they will hear from them. But it didn't meant that he was going to seat and do nothing he has already placed PSICOM troops all over the capital, just in case to be safe.

His reason to visit the security facility is because of a matter that has been bothering him for a while. Ever since he chased the l'Cie group from the Palamecia when he was piloting the secret weapon, the Proudclad there's been something in his mind. The air ship with the l'Cie we're able to enter Cocoon because the force field that surrounds the entire planet was lifted, usually they would have crashed getting killed in the process. But that didn't happen because somehow the force field was released allowing then to enter and eventually arrived at their capital. The question was why did the force field was released, as enemies of their world they shouldn't have never enter. It was better that they were away from Cocoon even if it was all part of Naabat's plan to capture them all while on the Palamecia before facing execution here.

He arrived at a double doors being guarded by two Sanctum archangels. They saluted to him letting him enter, there was another door after. This time he slid a key card to open it and once inside he set eyes on the large machine before him. It covered the entire area and with his presence stood a group of people wearing scientists lab coats. They have all formed a straight line like they waiting for his arrival the PSICOM colonel gazed at them with serious gaze, taking a few steps. There was anger in his eyes if his suspicious were true then one of these people is a traitor and if that was true he will make sure that he will get arrested and executed for treason. With each gaze he gave the scientists tremble in fear like they knew something was very wrong, or his reason why he was here. The PISOCM colonel did inform he was coming here but didn't say his reason for the visit.

"It's an honor to have you here today colonel Rosh."

"All of you are a very essential to Cocoon's safety it's not just PSICOM or the Sanctum. You are an important group of people that without you our world will be in sheer danger. I am here looking at the team that is in charge of the maintenance of the force field that protects our world from any outside attacks. The machine that produces the force field was built five hundred years ago after the war of transgression ended in order to protect Cocoon from being attack by Pulse again. Now you might be wondering why I'm here, to get to the point when the l'Cie managed to escape the Palamecia they were able to enter Cocoon. Because the force field was lowered gaining them access."

The team of scientist gasped in shock something the PSICOM colonel wasn't expecting. He thought they were all informed, but if there was a traitor among them he will be pretending to be shocked. Just to fit in with the rest but today if there was a snake in the maintenance team, he will unmask him. While there was peace for now in floating world he was in a mood to serve some justice to a certain traitor among them, and he was certain that one of them was responsible for lowering the force field. He calmed down a bit as he passed them initiating eye contact with the maintenance group, looking to their eyes you can barely see the lies in them. It was all part of his military training. Although he wasn't in a good mood he were still patient and he can carefully take his time until he catches the traitor? Most importantly the possibilities were high if the l'Cie returned to Cocoon.

"Someone in this group is a traitor, I don't know who. But I swear on my name and rank that I will find out whom."

"You have no right to accused us!"

"I have every right. Someone here lowered the force field allowing our enemies to enter."

"With all due respect colonel Rosh none us would never do such thing. We don't even know that the force field was deactivated. In fact according to our scans, the day of the Palamecia incident the force field was kept activated and systems we're running normally."

"Then please someone would care to explain me how the force field was lowered?"

"Colonel it's impossible that the l'Cie managed to enter, the force field was pretty much active and-"

"Enough with the lies!" he shouted finally losing his patience making the scientists to take a step back.

"I was there when the shield was lowered allowing our enemies to enter our precious city. I was pursuing them when it happened, I witnessed it all. One of you did it and whoever is responsible will face severe consequences under the charges of treason."

"Colonel…even if it's true of the l'Cie managing to entered what's the point? They have returned to Pulse, we're safe….."

"As long as those l'Cie are alive, all of Cocoon is in danger. They must be stop at all cost. Now I will give you all one last chance to whoever is responsible to take a step forward and admit your crime. Or I will take matters into my own hands, think wisely and make your choice."

"Enough colonel, we are uncomfortable with your accusations. Every single member of this team is loyal to Cocoon and its people. If you believe so highly that there's a traitor among us, then perhaps you should check the surveillance system. This entire facility is highly watched over security surveillance. If it's true then you should be able to see the one responsible deactivating the shield on the force field" spoke an older man with bear and dark eyes.

"Dr. Terma I don't want to believe that one of your members from your maintenance group is responsible for treason. What other possibility could there be?"

"Things aren't always what they seen colonel."

"I will check the surveillance system and you better be pray that it isn't what I'm expecting to see" he finally left while the team felt relief that he was gone.

"I assure you, you will be quite surprise."

---

(Time skip)

(Location: Deep in the dark Mah'habara Subterra Gran Pulse)

The group consisting of Snow, Sazh, Hope and Vanille left the Atomos after traveling from Sulyva springs. Happy and relief that they didn't encounter monsters on their way back to the underground cavern. They have returned in order to find the flower that contains the ingredient needed to neutralize the poison Naruto was suffering through the curse effect from the managarmr's smoke breath. It was sure a pain to go back to a place that it was filled with monsters the first time they traveled, and it was probably still filled with them. However none of the four complained not even Sazh they all knew why they were doing this, to help a friend. The Uzumaki was an important friend and they were willing to do anything to help him, pretty clear that the whiskered blond looked like the kind of person who would do the same thing. If they success in finding the flower then everything will be worth the trip.

Everything will turn out well no monsters will come since they took most of them the last time they were. That was exactly what Sazh was thinking he did found the Subterra to be creepy and the monsters and the killing machinery only proved his point. Snow was his usual calm confident self he did hope monsters weren't going to show up to crash their party, but if they did they'll be ready to take them down like they have done in the past. Hope was too focused in finding the Allachilis flower saving Naruto was his top priority remembering what the Uzumaki did for him in helping him see the wrong of his thinking when it came to revenge. He will do anything for his friends no second thinking or doubting himself for the matter while Vanille was in the same boat too. Everyone in the group has become her friends and her family she wasn't going to abandon any of them, especially the whiskered blond.

No monsters ahead so they resumed their walking sure they could run saving the amount of time. But they still needed to be careful never knowing when a monster will show up. Now it was a good time to keep their eyes peeled and their ears sharp for any hostile's creatures. Now they'll be lucky if the rest of the journey will be smooth until reaching the field where the flower was located. Vanille already knew the location of the flower when she and Fang fought her Eidolon the field filled those flowers that they also grow in their village. If they don't encounter any creatures then it will be faster to find the flower and return to the others. They walked through one of the tunnels passages relief that yet there weren't any monsters, while some like Hope we're a bit confused of their absence. Although he was glad they weren't here, he has never taken an enjoyment or pleasure for fighting and killing even if they weren't humans and when they fought PSICOM he was always uneasy.

"So far so good, eh?" asked Snow.

"Yeah, so far" Sazh emphasize on the so far part.

"If we keep going in this direction we will pass the flower field. We're lucky the flower is not so far from the other's location" said Vanille.

"I hope Naruto hangs in there while we're here" added the silver haired teen.

"Ease up Hope, Naruto we'll be fine. He's tougher than he looks, one silly curse isn't going to stop him" said the NORA leader.

"You're right I know he's strong. He's not the kind of person to give up."

"Yep, kid's too stubborn to go down so easily. That reminds me of Mr. Hero here" said the afro haired pilot.

"Hero never dies. Let's hurry and find that flower so we can get back to Naruto and the others."

They arrived to an open area with bridges remembering they've been here before. After traveling once in the Subterra it wasn't that hard to recognize the path they've taken. Vanille was right taking this will lead them to the flower filled fissure and yet no monsters available. The l'Cie group fought a large amount of them the first time they were traveling. But maybe it wasn't to an extent that all of them would be gone, like vanished from out of nowhere. By now some of the members of the group we're starting to get a little worried at the absence of creatures like the Pulsework knight or the Hoplite. And the idea of an empty Mah'habara was definitely not the right choice, at least there will still be some monsters inhabiting the region. The group has stopped as they heard a loud noise not too far from their location, the machinery movement has gotten their attention they weren't alone here.

"At least we know there are still weird machine things in this crazy place" said the afro haired gunner.

"That didn't sound like a Hoplite or Pulsework machine" said the young l'Cie.

"It sounds bigger" added the tall blond.

"Everyone!" gasped the red head.

Looking at Vanille's direction they realized why she would gasp and they found out the big noises that were near. In one of the bridges stood a Juggernaut and it didn't looked happy, or calm like the group of Juggernaut that stopped the Atomos. This one was different and the first thing that came to their mind is that he was on a rampage meaning it wasn't going to let them run off. They will have to face the choice that they will have to fight it to get across and resume their journey to the flower field. Snow readied his fist while Hope has taken his boomerang and Vanille her rod. Sazh was the last to take his guns before giving a sigh they were going to fight in order to proceed. The Juggernaut walked a few steps spotting the group of l'Cie and its intentions were very clear.

"So much for traveling without any obstacles" said the afro haired pilot.

"It's in the way, we take it down!" said Snow.

Vanille and Hope fired some spells unleashing fire and aerora not causing much damage to the Juggernaut. The Pulse machine attacked launching its fists luckily they were dodged because of its slow movements. They attacked together with magic and maybe if they won't be able to defeat it, the best choice was to stop it for a while giving them time to leave. Right now their priority is to find the Alachillis flower to cure Naruto. The Pulsian fired its flames from its mechanical arms launching them as the group kept their distance but it was only delaying more time as they were here fighting the mech. The Juggernau was proven to be quite the tough opponent even if it was getting by all of their attacks, Snow changed strategy using his fist the same with Sazh switching to his guns firepower. The rest stayed to their magic because that was their best skill in the offensive with the way thing were looking out, it looks like this fight was going to take a while.

Hope released another fira spell followed by thundara but it wasn't helping much, he carefully checked on the others if healing was needed. The silver haired teen wasn't happy aware that this fight was meaningless, it was nothing but a waste of time. Time they didn't had, the longer they stay here the more in danger Naruto will be in. He has taken responsibility to save the whiskered blond it angered him, they were wasting too much time here. He would never forgive himself if they don't make in time to save their friend after everything the Uzumaki has done for him. He helped him from his path of revenge and from taking Snow's life, something he will regret in doing for the rest of his life. Saving his life was the best way to pay his debt to the blond, but so far he wasn't doing such a good job. Suddenly he realized the Pulsian mech was out of the way from the bridge giving the group the perfect chance.

"Guys now's our chance to run for it!" he pointed to the bridge.

"Come one let's go!" Snow followed his lead of course he knew their priorities to save the whiskered blond.

"You don't have to tell me twice!" Sazh followed them with Vanille running alongside of him.

Snow and Sazh were faster than the rest as they crossed the bridge first. Of course they didn't wanted "Mr. Cranky Juggernaut to reach to catch up to them even if that impossible because it was quite slow in its movements. However Hope and Vanille were a bit slow and it got worse as the young Enstheim tripped hurting his knee, he tried getting but the small injury wasn't helping. The red head gasped as she went after him and the teen didn't wasted time casting cura on his knee. But unfortunately by now the Juggernaut has catch up being in the bridge it opened its torso about to fire its wrecking ball attack. Vanille grabbed his hand as they ran together about to reach the other but it was too late as the mech unleashed the giant ball. The attacked destroyed the bridge and the both l'Cie fell into the dark pit.

"No!" shouted Sazh.

"Hope! Vanille!" followed Snow.

Both l'Cie we're falling in what it looks like to be a bottomless pit in the Subterra. Vanille was still holding the young Enstheim while he was shocked, terrified. For crying out loud he needed to do something or they will die they won't have to worry about not fulfilling their focus, or turning Cie'th not even worrying about Naruto recuperating from the poison. He couldn't react but if he didn't do something he will die and the red head will join him. He couldn't let that happen the others would never forgive themselves if something happens to them, especially Fang when it comes to Vanille and Lightning when it comes to him. The only thing that came to his mind and probably the only way to save them from this deep fall, he unleashed his crystal from his hand ready to call out to his Eidolon.

"Alexander! Help us!"

In a white light the large heavy being appeared grabbing both l'Cie, he embraced them protectively making sure that they don't get hurt in the fall.

(Hold on!)

Alexander shielded them both he was ready to hit the bottom. Hope felt relief at least they'll be able to survive the long fall looking at Vanille she was all right but she looked like she startled, still too shocked to react to the unexpected fall. By now he has realized that she was still holding his hand from when she helped him get up at the bridge. The sudden contact has made him blushed and not a single thought came to his mind of breaking the hold, no he didn't seemed to mind. He felt comfortable in her hold anything that it wasn't falling from a deep dark pit. Both l'Cie gasped as the Eidolon has finally hit the bottom with a loud crash he managed to land on his feet with the two teens safe and sound. Once they were on the bottom they got off from the large Eidolon as Alexander vanished returning into his crystal form.

"Thanks Alexander."

(Anytime Hope).

"I can't believe how deep we are" said the red head.

"It will take us so long to reach the top and the others. But we don't have time for this."

"Good thinking Hope in using your Eidolon, you saved us" smiled the happy red head.

"I kind of feel it's my fault, if I haven't tripped on the bridge-"

"Don't say that. It wasn't your fault the Juggernaut is responsible not you."

"What are we going to do now?"

"Snow and Sazh will have a hard time coming here. I think we should find a way to climb back up."

"I agree let's-"he still feeling pain on his knee.

"Hope. It's your knee isn't it?"

"I'm okay, I healed the injury I'm still feeling the effects. I can climb."

"No you can't, let's take a small break okay" she smiled even when they were facing a complicated situation she was still trying to sound positive and cheer him up.

"But Naruto…."

"He'll be fine. Naruto won't give up that easily, he's strong he'll hold on long enough from that poison until we return."

The silver haired teen sighe as he took a seat while Vanilled and got seated next to him.

---

(Scene change)

(Location: The Palisades Taejin's tower)

The rest of the l'Cie group has decided to set a camp fire due that they won't be proceeding any further until the others arrive with the cure that will be able to heal the poison infecting Naruto. The Uzumaki was still unconscious panting slightly his forehead was covered in sweat, still suffering by the poison caused from the curse of the managarmr toxic breath. Lightning stood in the same place since the whiskered blond collapsed from the poison, right next to him by his side. And ever since she hasn't moved from her spot her only priority right now was next to him until he was cured, her thoughts we're on the others that they return soon with the flower that will cure her boyfriend. Her eyes were so much full of concern and the only thing she could remember is her last words to him before he got poisoned. She tightened her fist angry with herself for acting like a fool her screw up was hurting her.

The former sergeant didn't pay attention that Fang arrived dragging the managarmr that they killed, the same monster that poisoned the Uzumaki. Since they were going to spend the night here might as well prepare food for the day, what better way that the already dead creature before them? She has gathered some sticks when she went to pick up the fire wood. The Pulsian huntress has prepared the dead monster to the sticks putting it to the fire as it started the cooking process. She was an expert at this sort thing because her hunting was the specialty from her clan. When she was done she got seated next to the pink haired soldier they were both alone since Sasuke has gone to scout the area for monsters. She sighed taking a glance at the pink haired woman she was bothered, feeling like she should try and cheer her up. It was worth the shot she felt it was her responsibility as her friend.

"Food will be done in two hours top."

"….."

"Look at it on the bright side. You're going to eat the bastard who did this to him, so you will get even with it right?"

"Hm…."

"Lightning say something mate?"

"Hm…."

"Oh for crying out loud, stop feeling guilty for what happened to him!"

"Huh…? Guilty?" the older Farron finally paid attention.

"Your face says that" it's my fault he got poisoned and I want to beat myself for it" right? Is that it?"

"No. I'm not guilty for what happened. I'm angry because what I said to him…."

"Your last words…you didn't mean them."

"I did mean them. I hate myself for saying them to him. It angers me that he always has to shield himself for me or anyone from our group. He knows I'm strong enough so he shouldn't bother himself with trying, but he still chooses to take the hit for me. It should be me the one collapsed from the poison."

"That sounds like you're blaming yourself to me."

"I'm not guilty for what happened to him, but what I said to him before this happen."

"You will feel better once Vanille and the others return with the Allachilis flower. When Naruto is cured you can talk to him and apologize, knowing him he won't hold it against you."

"No he won't. It only angers me more that he doesn't hold anything against me he won't get angry with me even if it's my fault or if he's right about something."

"He's such an idiot he will try so hard to protect others not expecting anything in return. It doesn't matter if I will glare at him he will always look at me with that dumb smile of he's. I'm always worrying because he makes me worry and because of that I get angry with him."

"But you have never gotten so angry at him have you?" asked the Pulsian huntress.

"…."

"Lightning….?"

"I…there was this one time I got so furious at him. Before this whole mess started, when we we're still with the Guardian Corps. He did something that made me draw the line with him."

"Oh now I want to listen to this. Go on" Fang was smiling wanting to hear the story.

"Somehow I have the feeling that you're going to enjoy this."

"Just listening as a friend that's all" she gave a small grin.

"Whatever" she rolled her eyes.

The streets of Bodhum we're filled with Guardian Corps units as they surrounded a large building. It was the national Cocoon bank. There was a lot of commotion in the building as Amodar was in the scene assigning soldiers to take positions, however he didn't attempted to make a move. The older lieutenant was locked in this matter not risking any troop's mobilization because the criminals will most likely shoot the civilians. The only thing he could do is surround the building and wait for the perfect chance to attack, all of his men we're ready to take action they just needed his command. Suddenly his communication got an incoming transmission and listening to the person's voice he felt confident that they mission will go smoothly, it brought a smile to his features.

"Proceed Farron. Whatever it takes no harm must come to the hostages."

(Scene change)

"Let's move. Aidan provide us with sniper support."

"Yes sarge."

Lightning nodded to her team as they were on the roof of the building. Their orders were clear infiltrate the bank, take down the robbers and save the civilians being held as hostages. They were the Corps secret recon squad that will surprise the robbers while they'll be only focusing on the surrounded units outside, acting as decoys. It was a good plan it will be depending how well they can manage to assure its success. The CG sergeant in charge of her squad had a lot confidence that her team will make this mission a complete success, they weren't amateurs and have been given the proper training. Naruto stood with Janil their gun blades in hand ready to start the mission, Aidan was in position with his sniper rifle ready to give them the support they will need. The older Farron gave the signaled for them to proceed reaching a view below, provided by a glass window they could see everything.

"They're so many. Not your average robbers" said Janil.

"Numbers mean nothing, we can take them. Lightning is with us everything will be fine" replied the Uzumaki.

"Listen up you two. Like you said their numbers aren't anything if we use the perfect strategy. Naruto take out the ones on the back, they're the ones holding the most hostages. Janil the middle row, take out the ones with the rocket launcher first, kill if necessary. I will take the front row. No matter what happens no harm must come to the hostages, our top priority is their safety first."

"Yes sergeant Farron."

"You got it Lightning."

"Check your gear. We move in using AMP technology, surprise is our main weapon."

"Roger."

"Everything is set and ready" replied the female soldier.

"On my lead…."

She signaled them both using her fingers, so far no one from the robbers have noticed them they were still too focused on the decoy army outside. The two GC soldiers did as told while the pink haired sergeant went to the window and used a glass cutter in order to open the window from the inside. Her aqua eyes were on the oblivious robbers who still had no idea they were about to rain on their parade. This mission was very important the safety of the civilians were at stake and to the older Farron, the mission was everything. They will leave today with unharmed hostages and a lot of wounded crooks she will make sure of. It wasn't just her pride but Amodar was counting on her to make the mission a success, there was some pressure but nothing she could handle. She was ready and so is her squad, this will be another mission to win never allowing failure to show its ugly face.

"Silent and deadly…."

And like an angel falling from heaven she jumped activating her anti-gravity force field, followed by both soldiers. She landed at her exact position and just like her name she took out the robbers in a flash, they never saw her coming. Janil took the robbers with her Axis blade, a little slow since they were aware that the GC has invaded the bank to stop them. Nevertheless the female soldier did her job taking them out before they get any ideas in shooting the hostages. Naruto followed beating the crooks their numbers decreased so quickly, none of them were properly prepare to take on Corps members. The remaining robbers took some of the hostages as Lightning charged in but halted as she saw the position clearly, one wrong move and they will open fire. Naruto and Janil did the same thing knowing how dangerous it has become their mission was the safety of the civilians after all.

"Stop! Not one more move or they'll die!" shouted one of the robbers.

"Just give up, we have the entire building surrounded and the rest of your buddies are down for the count."

"Easy Naruto" replied the older Farron.

"Raise your arms, you have no place left to run!" said Janil.

"We already have the money, plenty of gil for us. Now we'll take our leave and if you follow us we'll shoot them" there were four more robbers following their leader with their own hostage.

Lightning has carefully touched her communicator on her ear hearing an incoming transmission.

"What are you doing?" the leader pointed his rifle at her.

"You're not leaving without that money and those hostages" she said calmly.

"Says who?"

One of the robbers was killed by a shot on the head, shortly another was killed of course the hostages were unharmed as they ran for cover. The third was taken down and the person responsible was Aidan with his sniper rifle who felt a little silly that he didn't have the chance to provide fire support because the three soldiers were enough to beat the crooks. The leader was terrified he was the only one left, he was on his own against four GC soldiers and entire squadron outside of the building to make it worse. If he leaves from the front he'll be dead and he leaves from the back he'll be dead too, but he didn't had nothing to lose. He glared pressing his rifle on his hostage which it was a young woman around her late teens. However Naruto wasn't going to wait for Aidan to reload or take a shot at him, he had this on the bag.

"Don't move! I swear I will kill her!"

"Let her go, it's over!"

"I will kill her, take another step and she dies."

"Please help me!" cried the woman.

"Naruto stand down" Lightning ordered.

"I can do this, let me handle this."

"Naruto stop" followed Janil.

"Don't take another step or I'll shoot you! I don't care if I die pal!"

"All of this for money, how low can you stood?" the whiskered blond was still walking to him.

"Uzumaki stand down now" the GC sergeant told him for the second him in her serious demanding tone.

"Don't worry Lightning he won't shoot the hostage."

"You're right I'll shoot you first" he pointed his rifle towards him.

"Heh" the blond jinchurikki gave a confident grin.

"Stand down that's an order!" shouted an upset Lightning.

"Naruto!" followed Janil she thought he was being crazy for disobeying the sergeant.

But he ignored her demands as the leader opened fire but the blond soldier has quickly used his Flashflare saber to block the bullet. He quickly punched the man knocking him out cold, eventually the hostage was set free with the bag of money he has taken. It was done soon after the rest of the Guardian Corps barged into the building to check on the hostages and get them to safety. Amodar entered with a smile on his face as he expected, Lightning and her squad has done the job well. He spotted that none of the hostages we're harmed and the money was saved. The rest of crooks who were still unconscious we're apprehended and taken out of the building. The older lieutenant went to the group as Aidan has arrived shortly after the other units we're done taking the robbers and the hostages.

"Congratulations Farron, you have done another job well done."

"Sir" she saluted him pleased with his comment.

"Always happy to get the job done" followed Naruto with his salute.

"Sir is the money secure?" said Aidan.

"The hostages are safe and so is the money. None of these robbers escape with the gil. I expected nothing less from your team Farron, this calls for a celebration. When we return to HQ drinks are on me along with some quiz trivia challenges."

"Oh no, not quiz trivia again" sweat dropped the blond jinchurikki.

"Haha forgot you're not very good at it Uzumaki. I even gave you the easiest questions and you still couldn't get them right."

"They were hard, there was nothing easy about them" pouted the whiskered blond.

"Don't forget Janil she's not good at quiz trivia either" Aidan smirked staring at the young girl.

"Hey! I…I can be good at the game if I want to. I just don't feel like it" she blushed.

"Suuuure you are, that's why you failed to answer all of the lieutenant's ten questions."

"Care to say that again?" she was holding him in a head lock.

"Oh to be young again" Amodar gave a laugh.

"But anyway Lightning is the only one who has gotten all of your questions right, isn't that right Lightning?"

When the blond turned to her he was freaked out. She was glaring at him with such a murderous gaze, her aqua eyes we're so cold like ice. He turned pale no doubt she was angry at him and he already had a gone reason why, he gulped so he decided to get close to Amodar to prevent being murder by the pink haired woman. Maybe the celebration will make her forget and she will lose some steam calming her down, but somehow he doubted it. Lightning was Lightning she would never forget something especially the reason for being so upset with him. The only thing he did is to pray that she doesn't burry him alive and held his funeral. Even if he stopped gazing at her the older Farron still had her eyes on him like a hungry hawk about to attack on his prey, she was never forgetting this moment for as long as she lives.

(Time skip)

After arriving at GC headquarters and having a small celebration Naruto went to the vending machines. The blond jicnhurikki has lost again playing Amodar's quiz trivia challenge, he came in last. Janil was third, Aidan runner up and obviously Lightning was the winner. The reason he wanted to have a drink, asides being thirsty it was to avoid the sergeant's serious gazes. She was still upset with him and he knew he was in big trouble for disobeying her orders, she won't leave him be until she gets it straight to him. That was what scared him the most but as a soldier he was prepared to face the consequences, or maybe not. The whiskered blond took a deep breath putting some gil on the machine, pressing the button on his favorite drink. He grabbed it and took a sip refreshing him he halted as he saw Lightning standing her expression hasn't change since they left the Bodhum bak.

"Lightning….?"

"….."

"Look I know you're angry at me for what happened at the bank. But I knew he wasn't going to kill the hostage, I didn't expected he will fire on me though. Things went well right? I mean we saved the hostages and the money."

"….."

She walked up to him and without warning she has grabbed him by his collar and slammed hard to the vending machine. She has pushed with such force that he was almost out of breath to think she has enough strength to lift him. To be able to carry his weight was really impressive even today she still keeps him surprising him. But now it wasn't the time he was scared beyond his mind she was so angry with him it could see it in her glare, her eyes were filled with such fire. It was the fire of anger he could barely breather because of her hold on him, he met her gaze a growl has formed on her face another proof that she was angry.

"Lightning…I can't breather…"

"You listen well Uzumaki, I will only say this just once! When I give you a direct order you obey no questions asked. You set a bad example to Janil and Aidan today. As my first officer you have to be the first to obey my orders, I ordered you to stand down and you ignored my orders handling things your way!"

"What would have happened if that robber shot the hostage or if you would have gotten shot instead? It will be my ass on the line to take responsibility for you. Your rash actions would have caused me my rank and your rank too! You're careless action can get us both kick out of the Guardian Corps! I would never forgive you if you do another thing like that again."

She finally let him go as the whiskered blond was catching his breath. Her anger was still in check but seeing him so hurt and helpless was enough to create a lump in her heart. There was no guilt in her she knew this needed to be done so that he learns from his lesson. As her superior she needed to discipline him in following orders she wasn't going to make a mockery because of his careless mistake. She values her military rank very much and demands respect among fellow Corps soldiers, what the Uzumaki did felt like an insult to all her hard training and her promotion for becoming sergeant. There was nothing else to say as she turned to leave but not before giving him one last glance.

"This won't go un-notice. I will speak with lieutenant Amodar to decide your punishment" she finally left as her eyes softened her expression has changed to a sorrowful one.

(Time skip)

It was a late at night and Naruto was heading back to his apartment. Sure after he did his punishment. Amodar has ordered him to mop all of the floors from headquarters and he was lucky he was given such a soft punishment, an appropriate one will be that he gets strip off of his rank. He was lucky the lieutenant had a soft spot for him although that Lightning didn't seem to approve with his choice, remembering her expression when she was informed of his punishment. It didn't took him that once everyone left and he was alone he used his shadow clone jutsu to clean all of the floors otherwise he would have been the entire night mopping. As he reached his apartment he was surprised to see Lightning standing at the front of his door, she looked like she was waiting for him. He was nervous expecting that she will grab him again and slam him to the wall because there were no vending machines here.

Soon their eyes met and he was able to tell that they were different from before. They were calm and soft there was no anger in them, she seemed to be relax compared to last time. Although she didn't looked upset he felt guilty and stupid for disobeying her, he did deserved her treatment. He had no right to ignore a direct order from his superior, he was a soldier and soldiers obey an order without hesitation. Hoping she didn't smack him or yell at him he walked to his door however, Lightning's eyes were still on him. She was still staring at him since she saw him arriving, now she felt some regret for the way she treated him. She will always have a soft spot in her heart for the Uzumaki no matter how much she will hide it or deny it.

"Hey…."

"You finished? A bit quicker than expected, I hope you learned your lesson mopping every single floor from HQ."

"I sure did it was a pain. I really did learn my lesson and Lightning…." He paused.

The pink haired sergeant gave a sigh not taking her eyes from him.

"Why you do it? Why did you ignore my orders?" this time her tone was calm and soft.

"I guess I thought I could save the hostage and take care of that robber."

"You could have gotten hurt or the hostage could have gotten hurt. You could have waited for me to give you others to apprehend the situation or wait for Aidan to shoot him down."

"You're right there were so many choices besides me charging at him. But that guy was nervous and he couldn't keep his weapon straight, that's why I thought he will be easy to handle him myself."

"That was a big risk. You can't forget that you're a soldier of the Guardian Corps under my command. Obeying orders is the same as having respect to your fellow GC members including me. Not obeying them it's like you don't respect me at all or you just don't care. Is that it Naruto?" she got closer to him staring into his cerulean eyes.

"No you're wrong and I do care for you, Janil, Aidan, lieutenant Amodar everyone. It was my mistake for disobeying your orders and I'm sorry I promise I will never do it again. If ever disobey your orders again you have my permission to smack me."

"I will consider it. And if you ever disobey me again, I will be even angrier" her tone changed to a cold one.

"Angrier….? You mean even angrier than back at HQ" Naruto was paled freaking scared of seeing her angrier than ever.

"Yes so better get your program straight, I will not tolerate a second time of your disobedience."

"No mam I will follow orders!" he quickly replied.

"Good…"

She hesitated a little but slowly she wrapped her arms around his torso in an embrace. The blond jinchurikki was caught off guard by the physical contact Lightning rested her head slightly on his chest. He blushed this was the first time she was hugging him and first time he she was so close to him. The proximity made him smell her scent and she really smelled incredible. It was a quick hug as she broke it and he could have sworn he saw her looking disappointed, or maybe he was seeing things. Lightning felt happy holding him like this her anger was gone but she didn't wanted to admit that she was worried about him, that something could have happen to him on that mission.

"Don't do it again okay?" her tone was soft again.

"Never, I'm a team player I will follow you till the end, believe it!"

"Get some rest Uzumaki, tomorrow is another day of work. Goodnight" she left as small smile spread her lips she was feeling better now especially after hugging him.

"I will thanks, you too!"

"That's it? You got pissed at him because he didn't follow your orders?" Fang was bewildered at her story.

"It was a big deal for me. I'm a proud person back then, my military rank meant a lot to me. I expected that the members of my squad will obey me whenever I give an order."

"But still what you did to him was really harsh. You were really angry with him."

"That's what I thought at first, but I realized it wasn't anger. I was mad at him for not listening to me the truth is I wasn't angry at him. I…I was worried sick about him. I was worried that he will get shot at that mission, that's why I got angry at him. It has happened ever since I met him, I will worried I was too stubborn to see it. Without understanding, why I got angry instead…."

"I understand where you going with this. I felt the same way with Vanille when she lied about forgetting our focus. I was angry at her for keeping it a secret because I was worried about her. And the same thing happened with a certain someone when the darkness was about to take over him, I was worried sick I will lose him."

"A certain someone….?" the pink haired gave a small smirk.

"Yep, you know him. He has the hair of a Chocobo's butt."

"Oh him, does he know you constantly worry about him?"

"I don't constantly worry about him I'm not some love sick woman who's always thinking about her man" she was tapping her foot for a while.

"The tapping your foot is because you're bored or maybe you're worried that he hasn't return yet."

"I'm not worried about him…just-just wondering why he has taken so long to return. It was just to scout the area not the entire region of Gran Pulse" she tapped her foot faster.

"You know you're not fooling me Fang."

"Yeah right like I'm always going to be worried about him, I'm perfectly fine mate" she was still tapping her foot she looked like she was ready to blow.

"Three…two…one" Lightning started the countdown.

"Where the hell is he?" she snapped getting up.

"You're not worried about Sasuke" she replied coolly in a sarcastic matter.

"Quiet! That Uchiha where the hell did he goes to scout?"

"What's with the shouting?" Sasuke arrived holding the sheathed Masamune on his shoulder.

"It's about damn time you returned, where the hell we're you?" the Pulsian warrior crossed her arms not looking happy.

"Why do you sound angry?"

"Because it's been like five hours since you left and you still haven't arrive. You should be back at least an hour ago, I was getting-…." Her eyes widened almost letting it slip.

"Not one word out of you" she pointed to the older Farron.

"I haven't said anything" she replied coolly not hiding the small grin.

"I took my time. I scout the entire area except for that tower. There were monsters so I took them out."

"Oh so you decided to be Mr. Invincible and take them on all on your own" the Pulsian huntress gave a frown that he choose to fight alone.

"They were hardly a challenge."

"That's not the point mate. You're supposed to scout if you encounter monsters you're supposed to return here so we can go hunt them together."

"You're not happy that you accompanied me?" the Uchiha raised an eyebrow at her sudden attitude.

"Yes, increasing our numbers increase the odds of a successful hunt or fight whatever you want to call it. Next time we do it together."

"Together, you don't sound like you're including Lightning in this."

"She's on it too" she quickly replied yet she can be a terrible liar.

She suddenly heard a soft chuckle" what's so funny mate?"

"Nothing, I'm not laughing" the former sergeant kept her serious demeanor.

"Just sit down Sasuke, hope you guys are hungry. Tonight we eat roasted managarmr."

"I won't eat until the others return" replied the pink haired soldier.

"The monster isn't going to disappear, there's plenty enough for everyone."

"I'm not hungry" replied the Uchiha.

"Then why don't take a bite?"

"No…."

"Don't be a wussy and take a small bite, it won't kill you. The meat is well cooked."

"No…."

"Take a bite!" she stomped on his foot.

"AAAHHHHHHHHH-ugh" he was shoved a small piece of meat to his throat thanks to Fang's stomp on his foot.

"Well how does it taste?"

"Hmm…."

"It's good right?"

"Hmm…."

"I said it taste good right?" she was about to stomp his foot again.

"Yes" he replied with a frown.

"Good" she happily smiled.

Lightning sweat dropped at the sight before giving a sigh, she turned her attention back to the unconscious Naruto.

"Hang in there smart idiot, the others will return with the cure."

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Deep in the dark Mah'habara Subterra)

Hope and Vanille were still at the bottom of the dark pit after they fell from the destroyed bridge thanks to the rampaging Juggernaut. The only reason they haven't made a move to leave is because of his wounded knee, the red head healed it along with his own magic. But he could still feel some of the pain from the bone, he won't be able to walk straight but he wasn't happy that they were wasting time. They were in a hurry to find the Allachilis flower to cure Naruto from the poison. He was also worried about Snow and Sazh thinking that nothing haven't happen to them, hopefully they have safely gotten away from the Juggernaut. He got up only to regret his choice as he felt his knee gave a soft crunching sound, he gave a groan ready to fall. Vanille caught him in time from hitting the ground, the young Enstheim felt badly with himself thinking that he won't be good to help in this journey.

"Hope, what are you doing? Your knee hasn't healed up fully. You need to give it some time to rest."

"Time…that's something we don't have. Don't you remember? We have to find that flower to save Naruto. I don't want to waste more time, if we're too late I will never forgive myself."

"It's okay. The effect of the managarmr poison takes two days, but it will be in full effect by the third day. Sometimes it takes longer depending on how strong the person's defenses. We know Naruto is strong so he'll be able to hold on long enough for us, so don't give up okay?"

"Th-thanks Vanille. I'm just upset that this has to happen to me when we're doing something important to help a friend. Now I feel like I'm useless."

"Don't say that, you have helped us enough. We all need you. Maybe Snow and Sazh have better luck and they already found the Alachilis flower by now."

"I wonder if they're all right…."

"I'm sure they are. You worry about giving your knee some rest so it gets better."

"Looks like we wait, but I don't want that…maybe I can get my mind away from this."

"Vanille….?"

"Yeah!" the cheery red head reply.

"I've been wondering. It's a little personal though. I wonder if you…hate Cocoon."

"Huh….? Hate Cocoon….?" She turned to him thinking why he will bring this subject.

"I know how Fang feels she clearly holds a grudge against Cocoon and the Fal'Cie there. But what about you I haven't seen you holding any anger towards them?"

"Why do you asked?" she smiled.

"I'm just curious okay. I always see you not showing any anger, not even when Barthandelus told us about the truth of Cocoon. I figure that maybe you don't hate…."

"…" she lowered her head in thought.

"It's all right if you don't want to talk about it I understand this isn't the kind of topic to be bringing. I'm sorry for asking."

"You really want to know?" she whispered.

"I…well yeah, if it's okay with you."

"I should be, but I don't feel the feeling to be angry. Its true because of the Cocoon Fal'Cie, my home and my people were attacked and killed. Some were branded as l'Cie to fight like me and Fang. And now they were either killed or they turned Cie'th, and eventually they turned to stone after failing their focus. The Fal'Cie took everything from us, I have the right to be angry and I guess hate it. I only felt more sadness than anger and it was because of my family and friends. I hate myself, I always saw myself to be weak and not able to fight for my village or my clan. I thought I was useless, I felt like I was a burden to everyone and even Fang."

"Because of my lack of strength Fang have to do everything, protect me, and fight to defend our home. I mostly stood watching everything unfolds, and even if I became an l'Cie. I still saw myself not strong enough to help Fang I didn't believe in myself and that very much cost me my life. But somehow we did fulfill our focus as we went to sleep in frozen in crystal."

"You really don't hate Cocoon then?" Hope was in disbelief at her opinion.

"I can't. Not after finding out that the people of Cocoon are victims just like the people of Gran Pulse. None of them are aware of the Fal'Cie's intentions or what they did to our world. How can I hate them when they all believe that they're the ones who are protecting them from…us? They feared Gran Pulse because what we did hundreds of years ago, that's why they see us as enemies. They didn't have a choice but to stay by the side of the Fal'Cie to protect them from the danger. This world may be abandoned and I and Fang are probably the only inhabitants, it won't change a thing. They will always hate Pulse."

"Vanille…." The silver haired teen was really impressed by her words.

"I know…I'm very pathetic. I can't get revenge for my people I actually pity the world of our enemies. And even if they all fear us and wants us dead…I can't seem to hate them. I wonder what will happen if they ever find out the truth. If they all knew that Barthandelus is only protecting them until the day the Maker is to be summoned."

"That's not true! You're wrong Vanille. You're nothing like that I don't think you're weak or pathetic. To me you're very strong. You're probably the strongest from our group."

"Me…strong?" she giggled at his complement.

"You don't hate them it takes a lot of strength to do that. And to be able to continue moving forward and smiling with everything that you and Fang went through. And even till today you don't hate Cocoon or you don't wish to have revenge on them, to me that's truly being someone strong. I could never do that, I…I don't have that kind of strength."

"Hm…you really think so" she was smiling giving him such a sweet expression.

"When I lost my mom all that I felt was so much hatred for Snow. All that I wanted was to get revenge and end his life, my hatred for him was that strong. I wanted to get strong so I'll be able to go through with it when I see him again. But I realize killing him wasn't going to end my pain or my hate, it will only be a moment that I will feel better. I'm not willing to take someone's life to subdue my hatred, mom would never forgive me. And besides it was just an accident, I know now that Snow would've never let her go intentionally."

"Hope. You just told me how strong you really are" the red head kept her smile.

"What?"

"Look at you. You changed yourself for the better,you didn't went with your revenge. You chose not kill Snow and you forgave him too. You even became friends with him that takes a lot of strength. If you were weak, then Snow wouldn't be here with us, you have that strength Hope."

"What strength?"

"The strength to forget and forgive, I think that's an example for humans being strong. The courage to have that strength is also another sign that human are really strong beings."

"I…I never saw it like that. I only realized that it was wrong what I was trying to accomplish, I mean Snow isn't a bad person. He's a bit cheesy always saying that "heroes always win" and other things, but he would never take the life of someone in cold blood, my mom died in a accident he was trying so hard to save her. But if I have that strength you have it too."

"You're right…I guess we're both the same" talking to the teen has really made her feel so much better.

"I also know how hard it must have been your life Vanille. You and Fang lost everything all the things that you considered precious are all gone. And the only things you have left are the memories, I'm really sorry for all the pain you went through."

"It's okay you don't have to apologize" she couldn't help it she felt her cheeks heating up.

"You and Fang are my friends. I don't want to see either of you going through that painful experience again. I wish there was a way for you guys to be happy again."

"You want us to be happy….?" Her eyes were wide her cheeks were still red as her hair.

"Yeah, I care for you guys both. I think everyone deserves to be happy they all have that right to find their own happiness. You guys aren't any different, if we somehow survive all of this. Then maybe you guys can go in search of that happiness together."

"You want me to be happy….? She was smiling feeling embarrassed.

"I guess I do…." Now it was Hope's turn to feel embarrassed.

"What if…you're the only one who can make me happy" Vanille started playing with her fingers in a childish way she was obviously sounding embarrassed.

"Huh….?" Now the teen's face was red.

"If…if my happiness lies with you, will you accept it?" she thought that by now her entire face was red and she felt her heart beating faster.

"I…y….I…." the young Enstheim couldn't get a straight answer.

The red head Pulsian have suddenly give a giggle to his behavior.

"Vanille….?"

"It's okay, I was just kidding silly. I wanted to know if you're that committed to our happiness. You're right about humans having the right to find happiness. I want me and Fang to try and search our happiness once more. First it was our village, our friends and family that brought us joy. Now that that's gone we have to search for something else. Hmm…or maybe we already found it."

"Found what….?"

"Our happiness, we did found people that can be called friends. You and everyone else have become our friends, and you're also our family. True that it's not the same family we once had, it's close enough for us to be happy and find our purpose in life. The same purpose we thought we lost when the Fal'Cie attacked Oerba."

"I didn't know you guys felt that way about us."

"That's why I want to find a way to remove our brands, so we can continue being together. I want all of us to reclaim our lost happiness."

"I know what you mean I want to be with my dad again. Sazh wants to be reunited with his son, Snow with Serah the same with Lightning. You and Fang probably want to be return to your home, the way it was before the Fal'Cie invaded. Naruto and Sasuke probably want to be reunited with Serah too."

"I'm pretty sure those two want more than just reuniting with Serah."

"Oh right, Naruto wants to be with Lightning I know about them liking each other. I kind of figure that they have something for each other back when I started traveling with them. As for Sasuke I don't know."

"It should be obvious about Sasuke" she smiled thinking about Fang.

"What? Really….?" blinked the teen.

"Um…Never mind, let's get through this together" she got up showing her pinky finger.

"What are you doing? Is that a pinky swear?"

"Yep! Let's promise that we'll get through this together and find our path to happiness!"

"Sure and we'll get stronger" he smiled taking her pinky finger with he's.

"Together!" she added smiling.

"Yeah" he blushed.

"Yep, together!" she kept her smiled as a memory came to her.

"What are you saying….?"

"You heard me, I want to marry you!" replied the mysterious youth.

"What? Marry me…but you can't I…I…you're younger than me!" she blushed in embarrassment at his bold statement.

"I don't care Vanille. You have suffered so much since your parents were taken from you. I don't want to see you sad anymore I want to make you happy. You have a right to be happy like everyone else."

"You can't just decide to marry me, only to make me feel better. I…I mean marriage isn't like that. It's supposed to be about mutual understanding and feelings. Not like a clan marriage, but different in a happier way."

"Mutual feelings, maybe I do like you. And if you promise to like me too, I will make you happy forever" the youth was blushing.

"Hope is so much like him" she erased the thought getting up.

"Okay! How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine, we should really find a way to get back up."

"Okay! Time to summon an Eidolon."

"But I already used Alexander."

"You haven't forgotten about mine" the red head smiled as she summoned her crystal from her brand.

The silver haired teen turned away slightly seeing her thigh exposed causing him to blush.

"Come on Hecatoncheir we need your help!"

The summoned circle appeared as Hope took a step back from the shock. Vanille did tell him that she tamed her Eidolon's power when she passed the trial given to her. But this was the first time he was going to meet the Eidolon face to face. The mechanical emerged from the circle with his many arms and confusing type of body, it left the young Enstheim with a puzzling look. Of all the Eidolons he has seen, this one was probably the weirdest, not having a clue how to approach it or react. The teen watched as the happy Pulsian got on the Eidolon's left shoulders she was planning to get to the top of the pit using her Eidolon. Right now that was the only plan they have available he really wanted to get to the top, they have wasted too much time. The reason they have returned to the Subterra was to find the flower that will cure the poison affecting Naruto. They were the only ones to save the whiskered blond.

"Get on Hope!"

"Oh, right…."

The young l'Cie got on his right shoulder ready to leave this place, feeling awkward seeing so many arms.

"Okay let's go Hecatoncheir!"

(Hold on tight!)

The Eidolon made one long jump as both l'Cie gasped in shock. He managed to jump so high. But not high enough to reach the top, he used his many arms to climb faster than the average person. It took the Eidolon to reach the top five minutes, pretty quiet compared that it will probably take them days to climb it by themselves. They were back at the destroyed bridge realizing that Snow and Sazh weren't here making them wonder their whereabouts. Then again they were with the Juggernaut when they fell to the pit. It was hard for them not to worry about them fighting on their own against the Juggernaut wasn't good. The Pulsian mech was quite strong and it was going to take more than two people to beat it. Their ears perked up hearing noises in the distance and they were getting closer, they were heading here.

"Do you hear that?"

The red head nodded and the teen's question was answered when Snow and Sazh came to view. Both l'Cie have summoned their respective Eidolons and they were in their gestalt mode. Snow was in the Shiva cycle while Sazh was in Brynhildr fiery race car. Neither of the two had no idea why they were running away using their Eidolons, that is until someone else came to view. It was the Juggernaut from before it was still standing and it looked like it was chasing the others, ever since they fell to the pit. Both l'Cie spotted the two teens and felt relief to see them again but their celebration was cut short when the Juggernaut fired its wrecking ball attack. The NORA leader countered using his strongest gestalt mode attack he engulfed the mech in a powerful ice attack causing a lot of damage. After he was done using diamond dust the cycle changed back to the twin sister, they vanished before Nyx blew her master a kiss.

"That's that" he smiled spotting the others.

"Snow, Sazh you guys are okay!" said the silver haired teen.

"I say the same to you two, glad to see you guys are safe."

"Heads up Mr. Hero!" shouted Sazh.

"What?"

The juggernaut has escaped the mighty ice prison from the attack and it was still standing. Snow was shocked that it was still functioning after taking Shiva's strongest ice attack. The Pulsian mech was about to attack them when Sazh got in the way deciding to use the strongest attack in his Eidolon's gestalt mode. Now the Juggernaut was caught in a raging storm of flames courtesy of the fire Eidolon, using Muspell flame attack. Afterwards Brynhildr changed back and vanished returning to her crystal form. The afro haired pilot smiled to the rest with his Chocobo chick happily flying, he felt cocky because of the abilities of his Eidolon probably outmatched Snow's Eidolon. He had the right to feel confident that he beat the giant Pulsian machine.

"Now that's how you do it."

"It still standing!" Hope was shocked.

"What? You got to be kidding me" the afro haired pilot turned to see the Juggernaut was still standing.

"Dang that bucket of bolts is more stubborn than a rabid Chocobo."

"I'll say" replied Snow.

"It's our turn!" Vanille turned to her Eidolon.

Hecatoncheir changed to his gestalt mode the Magitek armor. The red head got on firing the machine guns. The fire power from the guns was enough to destroy the Juggernaut, due that it has taken too much damage from Snow and Sazh's Eidolons, it exploded into pieces. That was the end of the fight and the Eidolon changed back, transforming into the summon crystal. Vanille turned to the others they all looked relief that it was finally over, she glance at Hope and the teen looked a little embarrassed. She noticed his cheeks were a little red, she didn't know why.

"That's one problem out of the way" said Sazh.

"Come one we have to find the flower to cure Naruto" said Hope.

"About that…." Snow took something from one of his trench coat pockets.

"I found this flower on a field. That thing chased us all the way there. We have to fight it because we couldn't lose it from the chase."

"Snow that's it that's the Allachilis flower!" cheered the red head.

"Looks like my guessed was right" smiled the tall blond.

"Lady luck is smiling on us" said the afro haired gunner.

"Let's go back to the others, Naruto is counting on us" said the young Enstheim.

---

(Time skip)

(Location: The Palisades Taejin's tower)

Lightning has gone from worried sick to hysterical, but she was still holding herself from losing control. In the past hours Naruto's condition has worsened he was panting more and his fever has gone higher. She held his hand never leaving his side but it wasn't doing a thing, she feared the worst for whiskered blond. She even thought that maybe the nine tails will be able to cure the poison from his body because he has told her that the demon fox's chakra heals his injuries. But with the way he's been getting it didn't looked like the fox was helping him she was aware that they were losing time. If the others didn't return soon then she didn't wanted to know what will become of her boyfriend, he wasn't going to make it. The pink haired soldier erased those thoughts she believed that Hope and the others will make it in time and thinking negative will only make her feel worse, she kept her eyes on the Uzumaki.

Sasuke and Fang watched the pink haired soldier with some concern faces. Quite obvious that she was worried for the blond next to her who was fighting for his life. There was nothing they could say to make her feel better their presence was enough at least. The Pulsian huntress felt bad seeing her like this she was getting a bit uneasy that Vanille and the others haven't return yet. She got worried thinking that they could have gotten in some sort of trouble while traveling through the Subterra she hasn't given up that they will arrive with the cure to save the blond. As for the Uchiha he was just grumpy that his friend wasn't well and getting worse by the hour. If the others didn't arrive soon then it will be one less l'Cie to fight against his focus and Barthandelus's ambitious plan. He got up spotting something in the distance, his lips turn into a small grin looking like there was nothing to worry about.

"It's about time."

"What are you talking about?"

"Guys!"

The trio of l'Cie turned to see Hope and Vanille running to them with Snow and Sazh following them from behind. The sight of their companions returning to them was such a sigh of joy and relief as they all looked so glad to see them again. Hope was the first to arrive as he was showing them the flower they have picked up at Mah'habara. Fang took it and gave a nod of approval proving that it was the Allachilis flower they need to neutralize the poison affecting the blond jinchurikki. Lightning gave a smile she was the one that felt the most relief, now she can't stop worrying over the blond soldier. She can finally worrying so much although she hid it well, but not enough for Sasuke and Fang to not notice. The two Pulsians got busy they already knew what to do with the flower so the others let them do whatever they were planning with the plant.

It took them around ten minutes for the Pulsians to turn the flower into liquid. They poured it into a vase made from the managarmr hard skin that Fang cooked. Everyone else stood quiet watching, witnessing the Pulse l'Cie's giving the drink to Naruto. Fang opened his mouth while Vanille made sure that the liquid was going inside and that the Uzumaki was swallowing it all. At some point the whiskered blond gave some gross expressions, probably because the liquid wasn't very fond in taste. Once he drank it all Fang lied the blond down as he was still unconscious they were done with the procedure in making him drink the medicine from the flower. They smiled at each other while the rest we curious to know the results, especially Lightning she was dying to know.

"Well how did it go?" asked Sazh.

"Everything will be fine now. Naruto swallowed it all. The medicine from the Allachilis flower will start to neutralize the effects of the poison within his body shortly" replied Vanille.

"In other words, he's going to be fine. He only needs to rest now" finished Fang.

"We did it!" cheered Hope.

"We sure did, it's great that Naruto will be okay!" said Snow.

"Finally" thought Lightning as she touched her necklace she gave a small smile at the sleeping blond.

"That sure made our trip worthwhile. Though I wasn't comfortable being chased by that giant freak" said the afro haired pilot.

"Giant freak….? So you guys did have trouble getting the flower" said the Pulsian huntress.

"It was a Juggernaut, one that it was out of control. But we defeated it" said the red head.

"Is he going to be resting the rest of the day?" Sasuke gazed at the sleeping Naruto.

"He will, doubt that he was able to rest when he was under the effects of the poison, why do you ask….?" said the Yun heiress.

"What a loser."

"You don't have to hide it Sasuke. We all know you were worried about him."

"Hn…."

"You really do care for him" Vanille said it in a small teasing tone.

"Of course they're best friends" followed Hope.

"They're the best of buds" Snow was grinning.

"Yes they are" Lightning smiled feeling so much better.

"Whatever, it's his fault that we have to stay the night here. We would have probably arrived at Oerba by now."

"Stop being grumpy, we don't want your Chocobo hair butt to get ruined" Fang gave a grin causing everyone to laugh.

"You told me you were going to stop calling me that" the Uchiha gave her a frown.

"Old habits die hard mate."

He got up as he turned to walk away" Fang….?"

"Hm…."

"I need to speak with you."

"He's probably in a bad mood for calling him that. Then again he's always in a bad mood" she smiled shrugging her shoulders she followed him away from the camp.

"I wonder what they're going to talk about?" asked the silver haired teen.

"Probably another lover's quarrel" Snow gave another grin.

"What? Lover's quarrel…what are you talking about?"

"Ignore him Hope" Lightning rolled her eyes.

Vanille giggle turning her gaze to the teen she remembered their pinky promise" I really want to fulfill that promise…."

---

(Scene change)

"What is it Sasuke?"

The Uchiha turned to the camp site which they were far away the others won't be able to listen to their conversation, he stood in thought.

"Is there a reason for wanting to talk to me alone?"

"There is. I've gave it plenty of thought to finally give you an answer."

"Give me answer?" she blinked not having a clue what he was talking about.

"At the Archylte Steppe, you told me that it was up to me if we should give" it" a shot."

"Oh that. You've been thinking about it eh" she smirked feeling happy.

"I did, and I finally made up my mind. My decision…I want to help you in restoring your clan."

Fang almost tripped after hearing that she gazed at him with such bewildered expression, like she has grown a second head.

"Come again?"

"I want to help you restore the Yun clan."

"Restore my clan….." she blinked dozens of time trying to process the information.

"…."

The she laughed making the Uchiha sweat dropped this wasn't the kind of answer he was expecting.

"Oh Uchiha! You have no idea what you're getting yourself into mate."

"I do know. It's clan tradition, as a survivor of a clan I have the right to ask for a clan restoration. It can also apply to my clan, but in this case I choose to restore your clan."

"Right right sheesh, you really made my day" she chuckle like she wasn't taking him seriously.

"What's your answer?"

"A clan restoration…sure it will be quite a handful it's not that easy. Oh please how silly."

"Fang I need your answer in the assistance for a clan restoration."

"Drop it Uchiha."

"Yes or no?" he was getting annoyed.

"I said drop it!" she snapped at him her fist shaking in anger.

"What's wrong with you?"

"Stop kidding around. You're joke was funny at first but now it irritates me, it's sickening. So drop it now!"

"I'm not kidding! Have I ever said a joke?"

"…."

"I hate making jokes. I'm not going to use a clan restoration proposal for an ideal joke."

Fang stood in anger but looking into his onyx eyes she was able to see the honesty and determination in them. Her anger faded away realizing her mistake, her mood has changed to a shock state.

"Fang….?"

"You-you're…you're serious…."

"You finally noticed" the sarcasm in his voice was very clear.

"You're really serious…."

"What's your answer?" he asked again and he was dying of anxiety he was hiding it so well.

"I…."

Suddenly the Pulsian huntress felt her face heat up. The Uchiha saw her cheeks getting red she was probably embarrassed and he didn't care. The only thing that mattered to him is to hear her answer whether she will accept him, or reject him. He thought he got his answer when Fang didn't look into his eyes and walked away. She returned to the camp site joining the others while he felt so upset, she didn't have to say it in his face walking away gave a very clear answer. What he hated the worst was the horrible feeling that he was feeling in his chest tightening around his heart. It was the pain of rejection something he never thought he will ever feel. At least now he knew how his teammate Sakura felt when he rejected her calling her annoying or when he left Konoha. Shortly after he went back to the camp too and chose not to even look at Fang, he was in a very bad mood.

---

To be continued

I am so happy to finally be back to this story, so I'm going to say it. I am back! And it feels good to be back again, nope my dear readers I haven't forgotten about this story lol. As promised I added some Hope/Vanille development goodness and more Sasuke/Fang well not exactly because they seem to be having some problems. Oh well all couples must have their ups and downs right? Thank you for the many reviews and holy crap over 600 reviews damn. Now we're finally making some progress as the group are about to enter Taejin's tower which means, Oerba is around the corner as well as their return to Cocoon. I will be continuing adding some information from other characters back in Cocoon to add more development to the story.

Now it's time for some spoilers since it's been a while I have added a spoiler section, here we go:

-Danger approaches to a member of the l'Cie group.

-The prophecy from the first chapter will finally be reveal in it's entirely.

-Sasuke's character development will undergo a few twists and turns.

-The lemons are so close you can almost taste them (hehehe ^_^)

-Wedding bells are sounding (and it's not the Snow/Serah wedding start guessing).

That will be all I guess I have gotten your curiosity and anxiety enough. That will be all I will see you until the next time farewell!

Next time Taejin's tower part 1: the Guardian's trial