Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and FFXIII they are the rightful property of Kishimoto-san, square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
** Communications through phones and radio
(Eidolon speaking and tower guardians)
*Kyuubi speaking*
Chapter 36 Taejin's Tower part 1: The Guardian's trial
(Location: Amodar's residence Bodhum inner rim Cocoon)
Aidan stood on the front of the residential area of his former GC commander. He arrived shortly, surprised after hearing that the former lieutenant needed to talk to him. But according to the call he reserved, the older man wasn't being very specific without giving any detail. He only told him to come to his home basically he had no idea what it was all about. Clueless yet he was here ready to know what was going on, if there's something important that he called him without saying anything. The former Corps soldier relaxed eventually he will be informed of the details, he wasn't that worry. The young man was wearing something usual just a leather grey coat with line designs, long chocolate pants with black combat boots. He gave a sigh not feeling bored it's been like ten minutes since he arrived, before he noticed that someone else has arrived to the residence. The young soldier gave a smirk spotting the young woman.
"You were called too?"
"Yes, the lieu-I mean Amodar called me to come."
Janil was wearing just regular civilian clothing. A pink sleeveless blouse with a grey open zipped coat, with a white skirt below her knees and her usual brown shoes, it was among her regular clothing. But she admitted that she wasn't used to wear civilian clothing due that she was always wearing her Guardian Corps uniform. She was on the job every day ready to serve her sergeant and lieutenant without questioning their orders. The young woman was among the most loyal and dedicated soldiers in the Corps, too hardworking for her own well at least that's what Aidan has thought of the woman. Her hair was in a single bum and although she has long hair she prefers to keep it tight and hidden, due that it can get in the way when she's fighting. Even if she wasn't a soldier anymore she still kept her hair the way it is getting used to the idea. She got next to the young man giving a similar sigh, not that she was bore or anything she was more patient than the man next to her.
"Got any ideas why he called us?"
"He only told me to come to his house, that's all" replied the young woman.
"Same here, when you think about it. It's kind of strange that he will tell us something without giving any details. When he was still a lieutenant he was always specific at everything, even a quiz trivia."
"Plus the way he sounded when he called me. His voice was serious but he was also sounded nervous."
"More like freaked out if you ask me."
"Whatever he wants to tell us, it must be something really serious to make worried like that" Janil gave a sigh.
"Super-secret information, is that it?"
"What other reason could be it if he sounded so out of place? He definitely sounded like a different person. Not like the Amodar we know."
"True, must be something really big."
"Somehow I feel nervous thinking about it. That he will called us so suddenly to come meet him and without explaining himself the reason."
"Hm…you know Janil what's with the sudden change in wardrobe?" Aidan has changed the topic focusing on her clothing.
"This…it's what I usually wear why are you asking?"
"Forget it. I'm still not use to seeing you without your Corps uniform."
"It is weird to be wearing regular civilians clothing more often than I usually do. Even when we we're still with the Guardian Corps, I always prefer to wear my uniform over these any day…."
"You looked better with those clothes. Your Corps uniform made you looked like a guy, seeing you like this now I guess you are a girl after all" he was grinning devilishly.
A vein pooped on the young woman's head she was glaring daggers at her companion from the GC. Many thoughts came to her and all of them included violence as an act to teach him a lesson for the mean comment. Beating the crap out of him or just smacked him hard that he will be sent to the other side of Cocoon, or either cut him or shoot him with her gun blade. So many choices to choose from she couldn't decide which one was better to punish the young man. The former GC soldier was ready to erupt while Aidan was still grinning at her. Though he knew the high risk of teasing Janil like that but he couldn't resist. Back when they were with Corps he couldn't do that because Lightning would have definitely scolded him saying that his behavior on a fellow GC member is unacceptable. Might as well make the best of it due they have resigned although the young woman will have to disagree with his way of thinking annoying thinking to make fun of her.
"If I had my gunblade with me you'll be a headless shorter."
"You know I'm only kidding. I'm only enjoying doing things I could not do for being with the Guardian Corps, nothing personal Janil."
"Maybe you should just shut up."
"I made you angry….?" He asked so innocently.
"Be quiet. I really wished Lightning we're here to shut your mouth."
They stood quiet as their eyes drifted to the front door, and there stood Amodar. His expression has really caught their attention they have never seen him so serious, but there was that hint in his eyes that he was nervous or scared. It was the first time both former GC soldiers has seen him like this, they have known him to be calm and collected always ready to give orders. But the man standing before them was completely different from the man who used to be lieutenant of the Corps and one of the best soldiers in Bodhum. They got worried wondering what happened to him to look so frantic it wasn't like him at all. His face was enough to tell them that whatever he needed to talk to them must be something so important. Then they thought of different possibilities that it has to be related with Pulse and the l'Cie, with the Sanctum anything related to the incidents that has taken place. If that was the case, then the information must be classified that no one must know.
"Amodar sir, are you all right?" Janil asked to the older man.
"We're you two followed?"
"I don't think so sir. The fact that Bodhum is completely deserted" replied Aidan.
"We're probably the only people living here, everyone left. Every civilian even NORA, the same goes with the military."
"There's nothing we can do. We can't blame them they're all afraid that staying here might trigger another Purge."
"A third Purge you mean?" the young woman gave a sigh.
"You saw the news a week ago. Apparently there was another Purge with the population of Palumpolum, because of what happened with the l'Cie attacking."
"Best not to think about it, they took those measures ensuring to erase any" Pulse contamination" but we all know is nothing but cold blooded murder" sneered the young man.
"Get insde and stay quiet."
They nodded following the former lieutenant inside. Amodar closed the door locking it, another action that made the two adults wondered. He was really acting weird, maybe paranoid with him asking them if they were followed. Now locking his front door to prevent anyone from getting inside even with their explanation of them being the only people in the now abandoned city, they were worried with his behavior. Once they arrived at his living room they spotted something familiar in one of the table that made sense after seeing him act in such matter. Janil was the first frowned when she laid eyes on a crystal bottle that was obviously an alcoholic beverage. It was no wonder why he was freaked out if he was under the influence of alcohol there was nothing to worry about. Aidan on the other hand gave a small smirk now that he was no longer with the military he had plenty of time to get some r and r. Janil didn't approved of this not just because he used to be her superior but because she cares for him, seeing the older man as a friend.
"Amodar sir, have you've been drinking?"
"That's a nice bottle of Bodhum sunrise. You bought one and you didn't invited me sir, I'm hurt" Aidan gave a grin.
"I'm serious Aidan. Sir are you drunk?"
"That has nothing to do with the reason for calling you two here. I needed a drink anyway and no I'm not drunk."
"Mind if I take a sip?"
"Aidan!" scolded Janil.
"Listen up you two!" Amodar spoke with the same tone of authority as he was still a lieutenant.
"Sir!" both reacted as if they were still with the Corps.
"The reason I called you here is very important. I do not know where to start, but somehow I have gotten my hands on some information that will change the fate of Cocoon."
"That important" Aidan was bewildered.
"Information that will change the fate of Cocoon, sir what are you talking about?"
"It will be best if I show you" the older lieutenant has taken the holographic device.
"It came with a letter with obviously no name of the sender. I'll warn you that it's impossible for anyone to fake something like this."
"All right let's see it" Aidan knew he was deadly serious.
"What could it be to have him so paranoid?" thought Janil.
Amodar activated the device allowing the hologram to appear before them. They were taken back seeing the interior of a bridge that obviously belongs to an air ship. Then they gasped as they spotted familiar faces their eyes were on Lightning, Naruto and Sasuke. The primarch was also present and what followed next shocked them beyond words. They witnessed as he attacked the members of the ship it was hard to believe that the man in charge of the Sanctum and the one who governs Cocoon was killing his own people. Then Dysley transformed into a mechanical being revealing to the group of Lightning, Naruto and Sasuke that he was a Fal'Cie. Both former soldiers remained at a loss in words and even after the disguised Fal'Cie revealed the truth of their world and l'Cie's purpose, their expressions didn't changed. Amodar finally deactivated because there was nothing afterwards, they knew enough as it is.
"The ship was the Palamecia."
"We heard on the news that the Palamecia was sent crashing by the Pulse l'Cie…but after watching this, I don't know what to say" Aidan was the first to speak the shock hasn't left his face.
"Is this…I mean-Is this…I…"
"Janil?" the young man turned to her worried.
"I just can't believe that-is this even real?"
"Oh I'm positive it's very hard to fake a recording. Somebody recorded these events from the bridge of the Palamecia" replied the former CG lieutenant.
"Primarch Dysley is really a Fal'Cie and he wants to destroy Cocoon, but why?"
"I hear you it doesn't make sense. If the primarch is a Sanctum Fal'Cie then why want Cocoon destroy? He's supporting the l'Cie to do it for him."
"Lightning and Naruto would never do that. It doesn't matter if they're Pulse l'Cie."
"I agree plus we finally know that the primarch was responsible for the destruction of the Palamecia and not the l'Cie the people fears so much. It seems hard to believe but slowly, it's starting to add up."
"I didn't want to believe it at first. But it does make sense the Fal'Cie's are the ones in charge of Cocoon. We basically take orders from them we really are just pawns in their twisted game. To them we're all expendable" said Amodar.
"But listening to primarch Dysley how he wants the l'Cie to fulfill their focus, that he doesn't care for no one in Cocoon…That he wants this world to be destroyed…" Janil was trying to get over her shock.
"That is why you two will stay quiet. No matter what you must not tell a soul about this, whether it is true or false."
"Then why tell only us?" asked Aidan.
"Because I trust you both, this information must be kept a secret from everyone. So far things have quieted down since the Purge at Palumpolum and the l'Cie going to Pulse. The least they need is to find out their primarch who considered him their savior, a Sanctum Fal'Cie who wishes to see their world destroyed."
"Revealing that kind of information will freak them out for real, who knows if it will be worst when they found out of the Pulse Fal'Cie at the Vestige. All the fear and panic will erupt in no time, it will be chaos all over Cocoon" said the young man.
"More if they find out the primarch supports the l'Cie's focus of Cocoon's destruction. But there's still something that bothers me" Janil was in deep thought.
"And what would that be?" followed the former GC soldier.
"If the primarch is really a Fal'Cie wouldn't he have the power to destroy Cocoon on his own? If that's the case, then why is he relying on the l'Cie to do it for him?"
"Obviously because he's supposed to be the good guy of the people, he only wants to make himself look good. Better to leave it to the l'Cie then blowing his cover. At least that's what I think."
"That could possibly be, or maybe he's not strong enough to destroy Cocoon."
"At any rate the only thing we can do is stay quiet at all cost, remember not a word to anyone."
"Yes sir. We'll keep quiet."
(Scene change)
(Location: The Palisades Taejin's Tower Gran Pulse)
The l'Cie group has resumed their journey moving out from the camp site. Traveling straight ahead, the area was already monster free. Sasuke has taken care of them the last time he went to scout on his own. According to the two Pulsians with them taking this path will lead them to enter Taejin's tower. It was necessary to climb the tower in order to reach their village, Oerba. They we're all filled with strength after eating the managarmr they defeated. They need it at least to the ones who went back to Mah'habara to search for the Allachilis flower. Naruto has chosen to take the lead and of course the blond jinchurikki was perfectly fine after he got poisoned. Thanks to the flower they retrieved he was feeling better now like nothing has happened, since arriving here. Everyone followed on route heading to the tower, good news that they weren't that far from their destination.
Naruto smiled happily to be back to normal, cured from the poison. He remembered the Kyuubi was trying to heal him but apparently the poison was too much and stronger to be expected. It did made sense why the fox's chakra wasn't helping much he did inhaled a lot of the managarmr's smoke. In addition his chakra was more design to heal wounds rather than poison. But thanks to the help of his friends he got better and was back in action even if in the back of his mind he was feeling guilty. Feeling like he become a burden during the time he was downed. But taking a glance at the group those thoughts we're set aside. They were all in this together till the end it was very much true he will do the same thing for any of them. The whiskered blond kept in mind to be careful to not get poisoned again, he already slowed them enough.
Lightning was following her blond boyfriend behind. Relief was in her face after seeing the Uzumaki was back to normal, it really angered her to see him unconscious from the poison. Not blaming herself for what happened but her words we're in her head, she knew she has hurt him. Yet as she tried to apologize when he woke up the whiskered blond never hold it against her, just as she thought. She wasn't surprised she didn't have to say sorry to him but she needed to tell him. She didn't mean to say harsh thing to him what bothered her is that he will try to protect her, when he knew she can take care of herself. She was probably the strongest soldiers in the Guardian Corps probably in the entire Sanctum army. She will make sure to keep an eye on him because in secrecy, she wanted to protect him too even if he didn't need it like her.
Hope was pretty calm even if where they were heading, more monsters were probably awaiting them. Yet he wasn't afraid after everything he's been through, he knew he can always count on his friends. Not just having companions but becoming stronger since he was branded, he's been through good and bad experiences. His most recent was getting to know Vanille better and understand some of her pain, the burden she's been carrying as a l'Cie bound by her focus. He was like her too his recent conversation with her has shown him how truly good hearted she really is. Taking a glance at her the red head met his gaze and she gave him one of her usual cheery smiles, he obviously smiled in return. Still not knowing why he felt embarrassed doing so he set his sights ahead, everything was going well. At least that's what he thought at first, he will be the last to figure out what was going on around him.
There was tension in the air coming from the l'Cie group, or rather from a certain someone. Everyone has taken a quick glance at Sasuke who looked in deep thought. But there was that expression in his onyx eyes that he was upset. Now after knowing the Uchiha from their travels they knew he was never happy, cheery guy. He was always focused on the task at hand and ready for fighting, they could tell something was off about the former PSICOM soldier. They didn't have a clue what could be bothering him, it was hard to tell. Asking him was the obvious thing to do but they were almost there from reaching the tower. Some we're worried like Naruto, Lightning and Vanille as the red head Pulsian turned towards her childhood friend.
Fang was in thought but she seemed to be out of it, her green eyes showed some guilt she already figured out why the raven haired l'Cie was like this. It was her fault remembering when he asked her his request to help her with the restoration of her clan, she only walked away. She was aware her actions were uncalled for and she had no right to stay quiet and leave him in the cold. Not giving him an answer he probably took it as a sign of rejection, that will explain his behavior especially around her. The Uchiha hasn't even given her a glance since the other day, now her mistake will probably cost her. She kept her mind clear looking ahead feeling hurt for her action stupidity was also another thing she was feeling. The Pulsian huntress has mentally sighed it was hard not to think about her mistake knowing she hurt someone very dear to her, someone who has become precious in her life.
"I can't seem to do anything right, now Sasuke is suffering because of me. The fool really dropped a bombshell on me."
They group reached a pair of long double doors getting the idea that it was the entrance to Taejin's tower. One of the doors was opened they entered not lowering their guard they expected the place will be filled with monsters. For now they chose to ignore Sasuke's serious expression and focused in traveling this dungeon. The hall they we're walking was quite long wondering if they will ever reach somewhere, though they were patient if it meant that they were monsters on the other side of the passage. They finally reached the entrance, all of them we're in awe at the sight. They have arrived in a wide circular area with a lot of joints that looked like wheels, obviously those from Cocoon didn't recognize the material or structure of the building. Their eyes went above seeing that it was truly a long way up no doubt that the tower was really tall not having a clue how high it could go.
To the l'Cie from Cocoon the tower was probably bigger than any building in Eden. While the two Pulsians were in awe due that neither of them has entered here before, they were surprised and lost like the others. The center of the area was a column that formed an "x" shape form below stood some sort of glowing stone and it was being accompanied by four strange looking stone statues. Their appearance was quite unique they had long horns, wearing well covered armor and they were all holding a long sword. The group walked closer to the middle, next was a long ramp leading to nowhere, just a dead end. As they walked passing the statues they heard a strange sound, Vanille stopped hearing the sound probably a little clearer than the rest. Naruto and Sasuke we're first to halt their steps they seem to have heard the sound before the red head.
"I'm not the only one hearing that am I?"
"No, uh….it couldn't be them. Could it?" said Sazh.
"Who else will be? Aside from our Eidolons?" said the Uzumaki.
"I don't know. It's weird, like voices in my head" said Hope he recognized it was different from when Alexander speaks to him.
"I hear it. Your presence here draws the tyrant's gaze. Leave this place at once" said Fang.
"Tyrant….? I wonder if they're talking about the Fal'Cie we met on the way here" said the blond jinchurikki.
"We can't leave, this is the only way for us to get through. Please help us" said the red head.
"As you wish. Look for us, and the way will open" said the Pulsian huntress.
"There's more of them?" asked Snow.
"I guess, time to search for some statues" replied the whiskered blond.
One of the statues raised his sword hitting the ground. The entire place was starting to spin around even above them it was moving. The tower looked like it was designed to change its shape in it's entirely, one of the paths formed a straight path above and below a circular machine appeared that it was obviously an elevator leading to a new path to take to reach the next floor. They will have to take the risk if it was a trap being setup by the Fal'Cie that was housing in the tower. Either way they didn't have much of a choice but to take the elevator if they wanted to proceed further. Everyone has turned their attention towards the circular shape elevator, their next destination is up.
"That was easy enough" said Snow.
"You never know. Could be a trap" followed Hope.
"Staying here isn't our best bet is there?" asked the Uzumaki.
"Could be. Don't see no stairs, though. Do you?" said Sazh.
"Nope. This is our ride-bumpy or not" replied Fang.
"Let's go" Sasuke said in a cold tone making the other wondered what was wrong with him.
"Okay…Now I'm starting to get worried" Naruto knew something was up with the Uchiha.
They climbed the long case entering the elevator it was wide enough for everyone to fit in. The first thing they saw is a lever obviously pulling it will activate the elevator. They entered and Lightning did the honors and pulling it making the door closed and the elevator to start going up. It was a rather smooth ride while Sasuke has taken some space from the group. The Uchiha hasn't even taken a glance at Fang pretty much he was ignoring her regretting of ever asking her to rebuild her clan. Now he was trying to get over the pain that was angering him, he was just being nice and this is the thanks he gets. The Puslian huntress has noticed the silent treatment from the Uchiha and pretended like it wasn't bothering her, but it really did hurt her for screwing up. It was her fault and suddenly the elevator ride turned into a tension ride between both l'Cie, pretty much their new found relationship is on the brink of breaking apart.
However the rest of the l'Cie group was well aware of the tension growing. Lightning, Naruto and Vanille gazed over at Fang while Hope, Sazh and Snow stared at Sasuke. Pretty much something has happened to the two probably another argument and they don't want to speak to each other. It was predictable compared to how they regularly act around the other always having talking to each other, they pretty much had a good communication. And usually it will be the Pulsian warrior who will start the conversation with the raven haired l'Cie, not it was anything less than a word or a glance. The group felt like they shouldn't interfere between them but seeing those two so distant like they were completely strangers really bothered them. Just then the elevator finally made a stop reaching the destined floor, as the door opened.
As they left the elevator and trying to forget of the sudden dilemma that is Sasuke and Fang, they gazed around the new floor they were currently in. It looked the same but it was different once they took a glance below, they couldn't believe they were so high in the tower. It wasn't enough to reach the top realizing that they must be more elevators to reach further on the floors. It was going to be a pain in the behind they might stay here for days trying to reach the top. Their brands might open and they could be turned into Cie'th before they find a way out of here and reach Oerba. Everyone was still looking around while Sasuke went ahead avoiding the gaze of the Pulsian beauty that has claimed his heart on a silver platter and has squash it with so much ease. He wanted to be far from her view while he never expected that Fang pretty much knew how distant he has become to hurt her feelings. Talking to him will be the right thing but after what she did, he wasn't going to listen to her.
"I have to fix this, but how can I after screwing up like that?"
They suddenly heard something coming from below and they got their answer when the Fal'Cie showed up floating around them.
"What's that?" Lightning drew her gun blade.
"Him again" replied Naruto.
"Waiting for us, huh?" the older Farron noticed as the being was staring back at them ready to attack.
"We have no choice but to fight it eventually if we want to cross this tower" said Sasuke.
The Fal'Cie flew again releasing an attack from its tail that destroyed a wall.
"Get back!"
"Hey there's a room inside" the blond jinchurikki noticed the chamber behind the destroyed wall.
"Is it some kind of trap?" asked the pink haired soldier.
"We'll take it anyway we can't stay here and do nothing" said Snow.
Following the destroyed wall there was indeed a chamber like the whiskered blond said. There was also something else in the room. It was another of the statues they met at the first floor, but unlike the others it was missing his weapon. Everyone felt like it was reading their mind of the statue just like they did at the first floor with the other statues. It was also like they could see the message the stone being wanted to show them.
(Brave soul, heed my plea and we shall bring light to your dark path. Know that a gelatitan holds my power thrall within this spire. Slay it, and I shall once more be free. If you can but restore the strength of my two brethren and I, here on the second tier, the way will be opened unto you.)
"That's some information we have to kill this gelatitan whatever that is. It wouldn't hurt to give some description of it" Naruto sweat dropped.
(You will know once you encounter it. It possesses tremendous power over the other creatures roaming this spire. Both of you will know as the bringer of heaven and the bringer of power.)
"Wait what? What did you say?"
(Hurry and restore power to thy and my brethren.)
"He said bringer of heaven and bringer of power…Dysley called me and Sasuke that once."
"Looks like we have to listen to these guys if we want to reach the top" said Snow.
"Even if we don't know if it's still a trap" added Sazh.
"We don't have a choice we have to obey their request. They already help us in the first floor" said Vanille.
"Right this time we have to return their power in this floor. But in order to do that we have to go on a hunting trip" said Fang.
"Time to hunt a gelatitan" replied Lightning.
"Whatever that is" said Hope.
"Yeah I said the same thing, the least he could do is showed us a picture of it" the whiskered blond gave a sigh.
"Let's put it this way, the ugliest monster we see it will be the one" said the afro haired pilot.
"That's a hard statement Sazh I don't remember seeing cute monsters in Pulse. They're all ugly" the Uzumaki gave a laugh.
"Just trying to help…."
"Let's get this over with" Sasuke said in a cold tone going ahead from the group.
"Looks like Mr. Happy have woken this morning in a bad mood."
"Just leave him be, your joke isn't funny" Fang frowned at Sazh's comment standing up for the Uchiha.
"Come on I'm just trying to lighten the mood."
"But you don't have to mess with him, he has his reasons for being like that" her green eyes softened.
"Fang" Vanille got worried at her behavior.
"Come on let's get going don't want Sasuke going on his own."
They left following the path their comrade took while Naruto gazed at the stone statue. He stood in deep thought as he went ahead to catch up to everyone. The path to reach the gelatitan wasn't an easy one as they all expected. They have to get cross groups of Pulsework gladiator and a pack of managarmr, nothing they could handle with their strength still growing as they fought. They climbed a set of stairs leading up that led them to a long corridor. The whiskered blond managed to catch up with the Uchiha who was still ahead of the rest he was definitely in a bad mood. The Uzumaki would a thousand gil that it has something to do with Fang pretty much they had another argument. Both l'Cie were already arguing like they were already a married couple. As his friend he thought it was the right thing to do to help him in whatever is bothering him. But knowing how" happy" the Uchiha can be he was aware it wasn't going to be easy to get an answer from him.
"So Sasuke…."
"….."
"Did something happen with Fang?"
"Mind your own business…."
"Don't be like that, let's talk about it. I might be able to help you."
"Did I ask for your help?"
"Um…No…."
"Then butt out I don't want it and I don't need it" he walked ahead glaring at the memory.
"I knew I made a mistake in asking her…."
"Oh well looks like I'm not going to get a word from him. If I try again I'll be only pissing him off more."
"Another argument with Fang….?" Lightning whispered was next to him.
"I guess so, but he's acting more emoish than usual. Something really bad happened to put him in this mood."
"He screwed up again."
"What? How can you be so sure that it's his fault?"
"Last time they had an argument it was his fault for messing up. If it happens again then it shouldn't be a surprise who is to blame."
"I don't know last time it happened Fang was very angry with him. But now…." The blond jinchurikki gazed at the Pulsian huntress her expression was filled with hurt there was no anger in her eyes.
"I don't think it was Sasuke's fault, Fang looks very down. I'm starting to think she said something she shouldn't have said to him. She's not the kind of person to be said if it was someone else's fault, if Sasuke screw up again then she should have at least hit him or stay mad at him like last time."
"You're that sure it's her fault….?"
"I don't like pointing fingers but whatever it is both have to talk it over. I don't want to continue this journey if they're going to remain behaving like this."
"Same with me" the pink haired soldier admitted she would prefer with both l'Cie were acting normal around the other.
Vanille has realized Fang was behind the group walking slower than the rest. She has known her since they were kids it was pretty easy to know when something was wrong with her. It was probably another argument with Sasuke because that's exactly what everything believed. The red head Pulsian what could they have argued this time, she was worried seeing acting "so not herself". For instance she talkative, never the silent type she will be only hurting herself if she keeps quiet and reveal her problems. Now she knew if she brings it up to the Pulsian warrior she wasn't going to get angry at her, but she will rather try to avoid the topic. No matter what she won't let her stay quiet and feel depressed when they were so close in reaching Oerba. Family will always talk about their problems and they will find solutions to them that were exactly what she has in mind.
"Fang what's wrong?"
"He's angry at me, but you can obviously tell…."
"What happened?"
"I…I messed up bad Vanille."
"What did you do?" the red head kept getting more worried.
"It really is my fault…."
"Fang stop blaming yourself and just tell me. I've never seen you this depressed before."
The Pulsian huntress stopped walking there was no way she was hiding this from Vanille. The red head has known her since they were little. But this was topic very personal to her and didn't want the others to know. She waited for them to get further away before they realized they were missing, she slowly gazed at the red head. Pretty clear she was worried with her behavior always wanting to help her, while she felt like she deserves to be punished for being so foolish. It was her mistake to actually disbelieve a chance to find possible happiness with the person she loves. But her friend wouldn't let her do such thing and maybe telling her will make her feel better, she knew it was the right thing to do. Right now nothing will make her feel better but to apologize to the Uchiha for being so stupid, especially when he meant his words.
"Fang talk to me…."
"I pretty much screwed up Vanille."
"You already told me that, what exactly did you messed up?"
"Not too long ago before coming here. He asked me…He wants to help me rebuild my clan."
Her green eyes have widened at her words she was pretty sure she has heard right.
"You mean he asked you to…EEEEKKKKK-"
Fang has basically shut her mouth covering it with her hand. She couldn't believe the red head will experience a joyful attack. When she noticed that the others haven't noticed they weren't with them she gave a sigh of relief. This was the least thing she needed to get everyone's attention and start asking questions of what happened. Is Vanille okay? Why would she scream like she has been attacked by a monster? Among others but it became a priority to calm her red haired friend before overloads from happiness. She already knew that telling this will make her so happy it was obvious that both Pulsian wants to live a happy life including one in marriage. The tall woman was still keeping her hand in place preventing the red head from saying another word making sure that she doesn't gives another squeal when she removes it.
"Keep your voice down missy don't bring everyone's attention that Sasuke proposed to me."
Her only reply she nodded her head rapidly her joyful expression was still there. The Pulsian warrior finally removed her hand and in return Vanille hugged her while jumping up and down. It amazed her that she was supposed to be five hundred and nineteen years old and she can sometimes act like she's eight. She looks like she can be happier for the both, acting like she was the one who was asked to engage in marriage. The sight of the red head dancing in joy gave her a smile she couldn't keep her contained from not moving. The red haired Pulsian looks like a kid bouncing and she has heard the most wonderful news. Just by seeing her reaction is enough to make her happy and feel a little better, but not enough to forget her mistake.
"That's enough stay still."
"Oh my oh my oh my! By Gran Pulse Fang you know what he has asked you right?"
"Yes I know very well what he has asked me. The fool just went right out and said it to my face, rebuild my clan…."
"He proposed to you, he proposed to you. It's so wonderful he finally asked your hand in marriage."
"A clan marriage" corrected the tall Pulsian.
"Yeah that oh I'm so happy for you Fang, you deserve it so much."
"Who would wonder me of all people huh…." She gave a sad smile.
"Then why are you so down? You obviously accepted his proposal."
"I…Not quite…."
"Eh…Fang you did say yes right?"
"I got angry at him. At first I thought he was joking, but then I was upset for him to be taking something personal as a joke. I was wrong I noticed he was serious I was too shocked to believe he will want to rebuild my clan. I didn't said a word to him, I basically left him hanging damn it. I hurt him and now we're both paying for it I'm so stupid. Can you believe it? I finally get a chance to actually be happy with someone and I screw it all up."
"That's why Sasuke is angry. Oh but don't feel bad, all you have to do is talk to him tell him the truth."
"I…I can't I'm scare. He has every right to be angry at me he probably thinks I don't like him. I can't risk hurting him more."
"You know you have every right to be shocked after all you-"
"Guys what's wrong?" Hope walked up to them.
"Oh Hope…."
"Why do you guys stopped walking? The others are waiting I think we found the monster the statue was talking about."
"Let's go Vanille."
"Fang looks like she really doesn't want to talk to Sasuke. But something has to be done I can't let her throw away her chance to be happy…."
The two Pulsian walked back with Hope as they went further into the corridor. They left heading to stair case with the rest of the l'Cie group waiting for them. Lightning stared Fang seeing her expression she was still depressed with whatever happened between her and the Uchiha. If this keeps up she was going to end up smacking Sasuke, she still didn't know what was going on but it was better to put the blame on the raven haired l'Cie. The Uchiha was still ignoring the Pulsian warrior he didn't even look at her he mainly kept his distance from her. For now the group chose to put it behind the behavior between both l'Cie and focus at the matter at hand. The pink haired soldier pointed at the floor after leaving the staircase, everyone saw a large monster. Its entire body was all slimy looking like dirty goo not to mention it was truly ugly. The older Farron casted Libra on it getting its information, she gave a nod to everyone.
"That's the Gelatitan."
"We found it already, lucky us" said Naruto.
"What's the info on it?" asked Snow.
"Employs powerful water-based attacks, vulnerable to lightning damage…."
"Meaning Light is going to have a field day beating it up" the Uzumaki gave a smirk while the older Farron rolled her eyes with a smile.
"It won't just be her we all do. I will support with enthunder, damaging it even more" said the silver haired teen.
"Hey you won't be the only one supporting, I will play a role too" said Sazh.
"All right it doesn't matter if its spot us or not, we'll go all out on it" said the pink haired soldier.
"Let's get this over it" Sasuke unsheathed Masamune ready to fight.
They have ran charging at the ooze creature the Gelatitan has already spotted them going for the offensive. Hope cast enthunder on the party giving them the lightning element on their weapons giving an advantage against it due that it was its elemental weakness. Sazh followed with casting haste and bravery buffing the group good. The young Enstheim went with casting protect and shell increasing their physical and magic defense. The others have charged taking their weapons for battle, they know of their big advantage against it and there was no need to hold back. As soon as the group attacked the Gelatitan was hit hard, getting hit by its weakness element. It felt like the creature was helpless to do a thing getting beat up bad because it was outnumbered and they have been buffed by support spells. Their movements were faster their strength has grown as well as both types of defenses.
Naruto increased their number using his shadow clones attacking with his gun blade. Sasuke and Lightning cast thunder, thundara and thundaga along with Hope and Vanille. Snow attacked with his fist while Fang used her lance filled with lightning and Sazh cast sparkstrike. All the attacks combined have given the gelatin no time to block or counter attack, every single attack was enough to make it stagger. Stagger and helpless the worst thing it was being sent to their air and received a bad beating. It wasn't long as the Gelatitan was beating as it vanished leaving a small trace of goo behind. The group sheathed their weapons once the battle was over. Sasuke sheathed his long sword back not realizing Fang gazing at him this fight was different to some they have fought. Simply the difference they didn't fight together as a team, they will always team up but not anymore. Vanille saw her expression and gave a sigh not liking seeing her like this.
"Well that was easy" said Sazh.
"I guess it never stood a chance" said Naruto.
"Guys!" called Hope getting their attention.
The stone statue has suddenly got a change when his weapon appeared, as soon as they defeated ooze monster. They figured out it was more than one guardian as they were told by the guardians from ground tier. The l'Cie group walked to the new guardian statue with hopes that it will give them another challenge, it meant they will have to fight their way again if they want to reach the top of the tall tower. When they were close enough like the others they heard it was talking to them mentally.
(Puissant souls bringer of heaven and bringer of power, head my plea and we shall bring light to your dark path. Know that an ambling bellows holds my power thrall within this spire. Slay it, and I shall once more be free. If you can but restore the strength of my two brethren and I, here on the second tier, the way will be open unto you).
"Another mission for us" said Snow.
"We already know if we want to leave this place we have to take their trials" said Lightning.
"More monster fighting" followed the Uzumaki.
"Pretty much…."
"Guys…It mentioned again bringer of heaven and bringer of power" Vanille stood in thought.
"What's that supposed to mean?" asked the afro haired gunner.
"He's talking about Naruto and Sasuke" said the pink haired soldier.
"Dysley did call them that at the Palamecia" said Hope.
"It must mean something important, I still don't know what he's talking about. What about you Sasuke?" the whiskered blond turned to him.
"Hn…."
"He doesn't know either."
"Anyway staying here isn't going to help us" said the Farron.
"Right we have another monster to hunt" replied the NORA leader.
Resuming their journey they took the new stair case leading up. Vanille wanted to take a small break to have a chance to talk to Sasuke. After hearing what happened from Fang she felt it was her responsibility to tell the Uchiha the reason behind the Pulsian warrior's behavior when he asked the big question of clan restoration. The only way to fix this problem is by talking to him, she was pretty convinced Fang wasn't going to say a word to him. They resumed walking into the next corridor hoping that they will be able to reach the next mark quick like the Gelatitan. There was a room with a Pulsework Gladiator but they chose to ignore it, it was only one. They took noticed of another Guardian statue they wanted to find the next monster before going after this one. The l'Cie took the corridor on the other side making a note to return to this room later.
Once they have arrived to the end of the corridor with another guardian statue and also another monster, different from the previous. It was some sort of machine in the form of a box, being accompanied by two mechanical creatures they were thinner than the boxed creature. They had a feeling that was the monster they were looking for meaning they had to fight it and defeat it. Naruto was the one who cast Libra on the enemy this time, but he didn't have the chance to reveal the information. Sasuke has passed him by charging at the monster taking everyone by surprise using thundara and chidori stream showing that lightning element was also its weakness. The Uchiha was basically fighting on his own not caring if the others weren't aiding him. Fang shook her head she knew he was acting like this because he was still angry with her. It was basically her fault for him acting this way.
"Let's give him a hand" sweat dropped the Uzumaki.
"If he does need one" followed Sazh with a sweat dropped.
The group joined in while the former PSICOM soldier has taken the two thin robots accompanying the Ambling Bellows. As it was mechanical its weakness was obviously lightning the others cast spells supporting the element, just like they did with the Gelatitan. Attacking together the mech creature got staggered not giving it a chance to counter attack since it was completely helpless. It was eventually defeated and the group didn't break a sweat like the previous monster they defeated. The Uchiha deactivated his sharingan sheathing his weapon again, yet it wasn't enough to calm his anger. The others were staring at him, no need to guess he was in a bad mood while Lightning was looking annoyed at his behavior it wasn't the first time he has acted like this before. He was in a bad mood which she thought it was his fault for having another argument with the Pulsian huntress. With the defeat of the Ambling Bellows another mission might opened up to the group.
"You could have waited for me to give the information of the monster" said the whiskered blond.
"….."
"I don't see the point now if we beat the thing" replied Snow.
"True I guess…."
"That's one down I feel we're getting somewhere" said the afro haired pilot.
"Maybe it's time someone starts acting his age, instead of letting his anger get the best of him" said the pink haired soldier staring at the raven haired l'Cie.
"It's okay Light we-"
"Sasuke you're behavior since we arrived here has been unacceptable, you're acting like a kid without his candy bar."
"What?" he turned to her looking angry.
"Ease up Light let's not start any problems" the blond tried to reason with her that it was no big deal.
"If he keeps this up he might become a problem in battle. Like right now he charged in at the monster without knowing a thing about it."
"It was too weak, we beat it in seconds!" snapped the Uchiha.
"It doesn't mean that the rest of the monsters we will face are as weak" the Farron glared at him.
"What the hell is your problem Lightning?"
"Light please" Naruto tried to calm his girlfriend.
"My problem is you. You had another argument with Fang and screwed up again and that's why you're in such a mood."
"I screwed up!" he shouted in anger.
"Guys…." Hope took a step back feeling the tension in the air.
"Easy how about we calm down a little" replied Sazh and also he took a step back.
The raven haired l'Cie pointed to the Pulsian warrior who was in thought.
"I gave her a chance to restore her clan and she turned it down. I wanted to help her and she rejected my help. It's her fault not mine!"
"You want me to believe-"
"Enough Light, it's okay luv you don't have to keep standing up for me. He's right, it's my fault I'm the one who screwed up."
"Next time try to get the facts first before pointing fingers at me" he glared at the shocked Farron.
"Guys let's all calm down, we won't be able to fight like this. Our teamwork won't be as effective if we're at each other's throats" said Snow.
"Snow's right I know we're a little edgy but arguing isn't going to help" followed Naruto.
"How about if we check this statue?" asked the young Enstheim.
"Let's keep going" Vanille gazed at everyone especially Sasuke, Fang and Lightning.
"Hmph….you're right I'm sorry Sasuke."
"Hn…."
They walked over the statue with no weapon expecting that it will communicate to them like the others, giving them their next mission hunt. As they got closer the statue woke up and started talking as everyone could hear it in their mind, the same way as they listen to their Eidolons.
(Bringer of heaven and bringer of power, heed my plea and we shall bring light to your dark path. Know that a gurangatch holds my power thrall within this spire. Slay it, and I shall once be free. If you can but restore the strength of my two brethren and I, here on the second tier, the way will be open unto you.)
"There it is again…." thought the blond jinchurikki.
"So where to next?" asked the afro haired pilot.
"No choice but to go back" said the pink haired soldier.
The l'Cie group turned back to where they came from. Vanille kept her eyes on Sasuke, this time the Uchiha looked different. His expression didn't seem to have that hint of anger anymore it was more like there some sorrow in his eyes. Quite obviously he was hurt with the whole situation while Fang wasn't planning in telling him a word this should be her chance to talk to him before they find the next monster. The red head Pulsian made sure Fang was ahead of her, giving her enough time to talk to the Uchiha. Otherwise she won't be so lucky and her friend will find out of her plan, she should know this was for her own good. After everything they've been through she wasn't going to let her throw away her happiness, even for a little because time was running short on their brands. She got the attention of the former PSICOM soldier though he was ignoring her he was behind the group perfect timing to tell him.
"Sasuke….?"
"Leave me alone" he replied tiredly.
"I have to tell you something about Fang, it's very important" she kept her eyes on the front not wanting the Pulsian huntress to find out.
"I told you to leave me alone."
"You must know, like it or not. Don't blame Fang she never meant to get upset at your request or get shocked. You must understand how she feels…."
"Oh I know exactly how she feels" he stopped turning to the red head.
"She could care less, I actually meant of restoring her clan and this is what I get for being kind. She even…." he paused not wanting to finish the sentence.
"Broke your heart….? You're wrong. Back at our village there was this tradition when members from other clans will ask other members marriage proposal. It also depended if the head of the clan would agree to the marriage. To make it short, Fang was never asked for a proposal. Nobody bothered to go and ask her, in their eyes she was…I guess different. She told you about her clan being about super strong hunters, other clan members didn't ask her because of her strength. They feared her and thought she wasn't fitted to a good wife or even considered as" wife material". That's how it was at Oerba I really felt sorry for her to never experience the joy of marriage."
"….." the former PSICOM soldier took a small breath.
"So you're saying I'm-"
"You're the first person to have ever asked her hand in marriage. You can understand now how she must have felt when you did. I have basically known her my entire life, I do know deep inside she must have felt overjoyed when she realized you were serious. But right now I think she's crushed because of her mistake, it must really be hurting her. Please Sasuke don't get angry at her, try and understand her. You must talk to her I can't stand seeing her like this anymore."
"….."
"Hey you guys are falling behind!" Naruto shouted in the distance.
"Right we're coming!" replied the red head Pulsian.
"….."
They joined up with the other further ahead they were about to reached the room where the other guardian stood. It was the only statue in the floor that wasn't holding a weapon the red head wanted to avoid their gazes, especially Fang's. Just as she thought the tall Pulsian was staring at her in thought she was on her own with Sasuke, which probably made her suspicious that she was obviously talking to him. She gave one of her convincing smiles to her friend while the Pulsian warrior didn't looked that convinced. As they reached the end of the corridor entering the room they saw a monster, which it was strange since it wasn't there when they first passed through. By now they were pretty sure it was the next monster they needed to defeat in order to restore the power to the last guardian of the second tier. Lightning has once again cast libra on the new monster seeing its information along with strengths and weaknesses.
"It's the Gurangatch all right. It employs powerful lightning based attacks and delivers devastating physical attacks. It has high physical and magical defense it's also immune to poison, deprotect, deshell, pretty much everything except imperil."
"It's hard shell gives it a lot of dense, unless we find a way to break it" said Snow.
"Guess we'll have to hit it really hard" said the whiskered blond.
"I will weaken it with casting imperil" said Vanille taking her binding rod.
"We'll keep the buffs spells coming" Sazh said while Hope nodded.
"I will get his attention and shield all of you from any of its attacks" said the NORA leader.
"We'll keep the strong attacks coming" said Fang taking her lance.
"Maybe this battle will help me from this cursed depression…."
"Let's try and catch it off guard, we might have an advantage if we catch it from behind" said the pink haired soldier unsheathing her gun blade.
The Farron has spoken too soon the Gurangatch has spotted them destroying the element of surprise on their side. The group got ready for the fight Hope and Sazh began with strengthening using buff spells with bravey, faith, haste, protect and shell while Vanille casted imperil on the shell creature. Snow has used challenge to get its attention and followed with steelguard. Naruto, Sasuke, Lightning and Fang proceed to attack it now that it was at least weaken a bit with imperil lowering its elemental resistance. All four of them knew it wasn't going to be taken down easily like the others they fought. Hitting it hard was part of their strategy Lightning attacked with a combination of magic and physical attacks, Naruto followed using shadow clones and rasengan, Sasuke used physical and magic like ardor and dark. Fang was the only one using physical attacks it was enough since her attacks are very strong showing what she has to offer as a member of the Yun clan.
Snow kept on receiving its attacks which were only physical so far, he wasn't hurt at all thanks to steelguard. Hope, Vanille and Sazh entered the fight on the offensive. With imperil they should be able to hurt it with their magic, the afro haired pilot fired flamestrike with the red head casting blizzaga and the young Enstheim using firaga. Naruto changed his strategy making some clones to fire aero and aerora, others firing aero and aerora strike, then one firing holy and another firing holy strike. Sasuke resumed using ardor and dark, with Lightning casting fira and thundaga. The Gurangatch was able to take all those powerful attacks because of its shell, but it was still getting hurt its slow sluggish movements was preventing it from attacking with haste. Fang lunched her attacks when it was clear to waiting for every to fire their spells, she followed with various combinations. The creature turned to her finding a new target, as it released its lightning breath on her.
"Fang!" shouted the Uchiha seeing her getting hit.
"Hey I'm the one you want!" Snow tried to get its attention again.
"Fang!" followed Vanille.
"I'm okay, don't stop attacking!"
"Shit it's heading straight for her" glared the Uchiha at the creature.
Fang was shocked the creature walking, it was worst that she was having trouble moving. The lightning breath seems to have made her body numb she was at the mercy of the monster. The others were still attacking but they weren't stopping it in its tracks. The Pulsian warrior tried to move her body but it was still failing her she won't be able to avoid the attack of the shell monster. Sasuke glared at the monster the Gurangatch is supposed to deliver powerful physical attack if she gets hit she might not make it, he wasn't risking it. Everyone gasped as their friend was about to get hit but it never happened, the Pulsian huntress felt herself getting lifted away from the monster. When she turned she has witnessed the Uchiha saving her, and the embarrassing fact that he was carrying her bridal style. She blushed at his bold move this was actually the first time he was doing such and even when he's supposed to be angry at her.
"That Uchiha, yeah that's right. Do it right in front of everyone let them all watch this" she was embarrassed.
"Keep attacking!" yelled the raven haired l'Cie.
The other complied while he was still holding the tall Pulsian in his arms it felt strange to be carrying her like this. Fang was never the kind of person to be the damsel in distress, just like Lightning. He set her down knowing she'll be pretty much be pissed at him for holding her too long, and for a moment their eyes met. It was the first they have looked at each other since the incident it's like they could read each other's minds. There was hurt and some anger but there was also the feeling of sorrow, both were hurt for this misunderstanding. It didn't matter if there was still a sight being fought both just wanted each other's company and forget everything surrounding them. But Sasuke knew better aware that he needed to apologize for the way he's been acting, for not understanding how she felt.
"Vanille told me the truth…."
"She did huh….? I figured she did."
"Those people in your village were real idiots not to accept you for who you are. It's their fault if they were cowards to try and ask you about marriage, not yours."
"You passed the test you're not shaking in your boots after asking me."
"As if I will be scared, I meant what I said it's up to you if you want to go through with it."
"You'll have my answer soon, but first time to finish this annoying bastard" she prepared her lance at the Gurangatch.
"It's all yours" he grinned.
The Pulsian huntress grinned seeing the creature has been weakened from all the attacks it received. She ran charging at fast speed, she jumped as high as she could. Raising her lance to the highest point creating a strong pressure force she fell at such speed hitting the Gurangatch. The attack was so strong that it managed to destroy the shell of the monster. Everyone stood in awe they have been trying to break it with all their attacks and still no luck, then Fang come and shatters it with only one attack. Even Sasuke stood in awe at the sight seeing how strong she really is, all except for Vanille who was smiling as she saw everything with her own eyes. She knew exactly what her friend because she has told her about the attack that is only passed down in the Yun clan.
"That was…Highwind Fang you learned it!"
"What was that?" thought the Uchiha.
Without its shell the Gurangatch was revealed to be a lizard and also it was now defenseless any kinds of attacks. The group didn't waste time as they all combined their strongest attacks to finish it. Naruto used rasenagan with holy strike, Lightning followed with ruinga and thundaga, Sasuke with darkra, Hope with firaga, Vanille with waterga, Sazh with aerora and Snow with his fist. The lizard creature was defeated making it vanished ending the fight. The results of the fight made the weapon appeared on the statue, it shortly started moving raising the sword so the tip was facing above. They didn't know the other statues on the floor have done the same thing. Everyone sighed in relief happy that it was finally over, they sheathed their weapons back. Fang smiled turning over to the Uchiha she was ready to give him her answer regarding his proposal for the second time.
"You really want to do this?"
"I made up my mind."
"I'm sorry for what happened…."
"What are you talking about? I'm the one who has to apologize for leaving you hanging, I didn't mean it mate…."
She gave him a quick hug feeling so much joy to think nobody from her village wanted to propose to her. It took someone from a different world to be the one to pop the question and she didn't wanted any other way. The Uchiha hold her glad that she wasn't angry with him for acting like an ass the entire time, she still pretty much feels the same all along. Everyone smiled at the sight Vanille was the first, happy to have been able to do something that will lead for both l'Cie to come to an agreement, no real damage was done to their relationship after all. Naruto smiled seeing that they have patched things up along with Lightning and the rest of the group we're all smiles. Soon they resumed their journey leaving from the big crack the Fal'Cie made with its attack, and by now the fire that came from it has died down.
"It's official now right?"
"Hn…."
The tall Pulsian friendly elbowed him on his side she was truly happy.
"Once we get to Oerba I will give you the official initiation as a member of my clan."
"Initiation?" he raised an eyebrow only one thing came to his mind.
"I'm not talking about sex" she grinned.
"I knew that…."
"Suuure, you naughty Uchiha, but eventually in due time we will. You are going to" rebuild" my clan we have to do that."
Sasuke couldn't help it, he has blushed at how anxious her tone sounded.
"Everything worked out well in the end" said Naruto happily
"It sure did, those two seem to be closer than ever" said the Farron.
"Yeah they just needed to talk!" followed Vanille.
"I will return the favor Vanille you'll see" Fang smiled as she gazed at the red head and then at Hope.
They left the crack arriving where they we're when arriving from the elevator. Things were looking positive for the group, until the snake looking Fal'Cie emerged wanting to greet them again.
"Great here we go again!" Fang has taken her lance once more.
"Can't take a hint?" asked Snow preparing his fists.
"You're one to talk" Lightning replied taking her gun blade.
"She has you there Snow" Naruto gave a smirk holding his gun blade.
Before they got the chance to fight the creature the three Guardian statues from the floor appeared charging at the Fal'Cie. One of them created a wave from unleashing an attack with his blade. The sharp wave hit the tip of the tail cutting it the sight has shocked the l'Cie group not expecting them to fight the Fal'Cie.
"I'll be damned!" Sazh cheered.
The Fal'Cie left while the three statues were staring at the group. It was hard to tell what were their reactions because they were made of stone, they couldn't tell whether they please, upset or sad.
"Are they sad?" Vanille took the first guess.
(Do not be alarmed, we will aid you against the tyrant. Keep going up and reach the top of this spire bringer of heaven and bringer of power.)
"Wait!" Naruto stopped them but it was too late the three have vanished.
"I want to know why they are calling us that…."
"Well, I guess the way is open now" said the pink haired soldier.
The group resumed their walking while Sasuke walked to the Uzumaki in deep thought.
"Why do you want to know so badly?"
"Aren't you curious to know too?"
"I guess…."
"There must be a reason for it. First Dysley and now those stone guys, I'm telling you they know something. There must be an explanation for them to be calling us that."
"…." the Uchiha stood in deep thought thinking the same thing, he was curious to know too.
"Worrying about that now isn't important" Lightning turned to the two.
"We should be focusing in leaving this place by reaching the top floor."
"Yeah, that's all we can do for now."
"Cheer up Naruto, maybe it will be this easy. We will have to find more of those guardians and go on hunting missions with monsters that aren't worth the challenge" said Snow.
(Time skip)
After fighting dozens of groups of Managamr and Pulsework Centurions, the group has reached the third tier of the tower. And just when things were starting to get tired they spotted a circular pillar with an invincible barrier as soon as they crossed the barrier and circular elevator arrived. The sight of it made the l'Cie group feel relief that they won't be walking for a little while. It also showed something positive that they were actually having some progress in this journey. If they keep this up they might reach the top floor sooner than they think.
"Looks like we're getting somewhere" said Sazh.
"Finally" said Hope.
"Going up" followed Snow as the door opened.
"After you my fiancée" Fang allowed the Uchiha to pass with a grin.
"You go first" replied the shinobi sounding a little embarrassed.
"Why thank you gentlemen" she passed him by while he sighed.
"She really has you riled up" Naruto gave a chuckle.
"You're one to talk."
"Nah I'm not that riled up."
"Get moving Uzumaki" Lightning started pushing the blond towards the elevator.
"I'm going I'm going!"
"At least everything is going well I hope we get to Oerba soon. I know our brands are opening up, I don't know how much time we have left…."
To be continued
That will be all for now and aren't you glad I have finally updated the story. I'm really happy this story has over 600 reviews, 544 favorite list and 371 follows with 16 C2 communities. Also Fang and Sasuke have patched things up and soon to tie the knot, what about Naruto and Lightning? That question will remain un-answer for now. Two more chapters and it's up to Oerba. On another side note read chapter 598 of the Naruto manga NOW evil cliffhanger by Kishimoto truly the most evil one ever, even more evil than mine. As always keep sending those reviews and thank you very much for all of those reviews I will see you all next time farewell!
Next time: Taejin's Tower part 2 the challenges and the burden