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.

37. Taejin's Tower part 2

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

(Eidolons speaking)

*Kyuubi speaking*

Bold letters Guardians speaking

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Chapter 37 Taejin's Tower part 2: the challenges and the burden

(Location: Fourth tier Taejin's tower Gran Pulse)

The elevator ride didn't last long the piece of machinery was quite fast and reliable. The members of the l'Cie group weren't bored because the elevator would reach the designated floor before they could get in the mood. Everyone was going well so far they haven't had any trouble dealing with the monsters in the tall tower. They were strong but they have proven to be stronger and with how things were looking it wasn't going to be that long before they could reach the top floor. The group used to believe it will be a slow journey that it might take them weeks to climb the spire they seemed to have thought wrong. They already knew they have special helps from the guardians of the tower giving the challenges to bring their power back, as well as attacking the Fal'Cie that has taken over the spire. Without pushing their luck they hope things stay like this and hopefully leave the tower so they can reach their destination, the village of Oerba.

The doors of the elevator opened coming to see a hallway the same looking one from previous floors. They spotted another similar entrance going inside they had company waiting for them, two monsters charging at the group. There were two Yaksha since there were only two of the fast creatures against the numbers of the l'Cie group they were beaten quickly thanks to Vanille and Fang weakening them with debuff spells. After they took care of the two monsters they're luck seems to be getting even better, in the chamber stood another elevator. They followed with taking the new elevator thinking it will take them to a safer floor that doesn't have any monsters. It wasn't to reach the next floor and leaving they didn't like to see more monsters outside, it was official the tower was filled with monsters and it was completely not safe. It wasn't that bad in the chamber of the fifth tier they spotted another stone guardian with its weapon missing.

They draw their weapons once more at the creatures two Yaksha and one Yakshini. Careful because there were more, on the far left corner stood two Yakshini. Fang and Vanille have concentrated in debuffing the three Yakshini because of their ability to cast debuff spells too. They will be a big trouble for the group if they managed to cast them. The rest followed charging in taking down the weakened creatures shortly the two Yaksha followed the same fate. Lightning turned both ways checking there weren't any more monsters they lowered weapons as the area was safe. Taking a look at the stone statue it meant they had another challenge to do, another battle against a strong monster. The monsters they have fought in the tower with exception of the Gurangatch have been no match for the group. They approached the statue waiting to reply to them for their next trial.

"Tormented soul, heed my plea and we shall bring light to your path. Know that a mushussu 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 upper tiers, the way will be open unto you."

"Hm…That's strange it didn't mention me and Sasuke being the whole bringer of heave and bringer of power thingy…."

"Another hunt huh….?" asked Sazh.

"We'll have to do the same thing we did in the previous floor, defeating certain monsters to bring their power back" said Lightning.

"More fighting never got bored of that" followed Sasuke.

"Time to search for this monster…This um Mashutu."

"It's Mushussu" Lightning sweat dropped at her blond boyfriend's mistake.

"Yeah that!"

They started their search for the next monster to hunt as part of the guardians' trial. The sound of monsters nearby has caught the group's attention as they went to the offensive taking their weapons. Turning around they spotted a small winged creature accompanied by two Yashini, the winged monster looked to peculiar from the rest. Naruto has casted libra on the flying creature getting its information, surprised that it was called the same monster they are supposed to defeat to bring power to one of the stone guardians.

"We found our monster."

"That was fast" said Snow.

"Better for us it save us the time searching for it" replied Fang?

"It susceptible to deprotect, imperil and slow" followed the blond jinshurikki.

"Okay leave it to us!" said Vanille.

"Concentrate on the two Yashini first, they pose more a danger than the Mushussu" said the pink haired soldier.

"I'll get their attention" the NORA leader gave a grin.

As the winged Mushussu spotted them the Yashini followed charging at the l'Cie group. Snow used provoke so they only focus on him as their main target, Fang and Vanille followed with casting debuffs on the two Yashini. They knew of their ability from their catastrophic dance they have to be taken out first while Sazh and Hope took the opportunity to cast buff spells on the group faith, bravery, protect, shell and haste to strengthen their abilities. Just like that the battle wasn't that tough maybe because they have grown quite strong since they started this journey or maybe because they have numbers on their side, or their teamwork was perfect or it was probably all of the above. The Yashini were taken out while they were performing their catastrophic dance taking the advantage its take time for the dance to take effect. The Mushussu wasn't tough either, it attacked with its tail but it hardly hurt any of the members. With their combined attacks the winged creature never stood a chance, it was beaten rather quickly.

"Mission accomplished" the Uzumaki smiled spotting as a weapon appeared on the guardian statue for defeating the monster.

"That was too easy, not to sound arrogant or anything" said Sazh.

"The monsters in this tower are pretty much weak" followed Sasuke.

"Don't get too overconfident. You're forgetting the Gurangatch was no push over it was a tough one with high defense. It won't be the last monster we will meet like that" said Fang.

"We don't have to worry how many monsters we face or how strong they might. As long as we have teamwork they won't have a chance" said the whiskered blond.

With no enemies in sights they left the chamber. Things got a bit complicated when they noticed there was no place to go. They did spotted an opening where the elevator would stop, for a moment they thought they'll be able to get to the next floor. But obviously that didn't happen when they got closer to the giant circle the elevator never show up as of things wouldn't get too easy for them. Neither of the members of thel'Cie group saw it as bad luck they just needed to find another way to get to the next floor. There was no need to stay here any longer they went back to the elevator in the chamber without any of the members giving it any thought. The elevator went back to the previous floor the fourth tier as they walked back to the chamber Lightning took the front. The pink haired soldier was in thought as she made the group stopped their walking. The older Farron stood in deep thought remembering the last time she has done her usual checking on the group.

"Why are we stopping?" asked Sazh.

"We should take this moment because there are no monsters. It's been a while since the last time I check on all of your brands."

"Brand checking time" Naruto gave a silly grin happy that his girlfriend has taken the responsibility to look at the progress of their l'Cie brand.

"No argues from me" Snow was the first to show her his brand half opened.

"I think mine is the same as Snow's" Hope showed her his brand looking the same as the NORA leader.

"They're the same" the former GC sergeant took a notice based on their appearance.

"Mine is probably the same, it won't be long we're almost close to the Cie'th express" said the afro haired gunner staring at his brand on his chest.

"At the very least you three still have time" she replied staring at the members.

"Mine looks the same since I have awoke from crystal" Fang was obviously being sarcastic showing the pink haired soldier her burnt brand.

"We get it Fang you want to add some humor to this" sweat dropped the Uzumaki.

"You're next Naruto lift your shirt and vest."

The blond jinchurikki gave a nod obeying his girlfriend without questions ask. He lifted his clothing with the purpose that his brand will be shown as the pink haired woman took a long glance at it. The Farron gave a short nod in deep thought, the brand was half open too she was relief he also have time before he can transform. It was harder for him remembering that he was the host of a powerful evil monster to transform into another monster was already hell enough. Indeed she enjoyed the very much staring at his abdomen and his six pack she will never get tire of staring at his build body. She erased any dirty thoughts because of her hormones going crazy just by staring at a specific part of her boyfriend's body. But she wished that she can have her intimate moment with him it was killing her that she wanted him badly and that has to be postponed because of their current situation. It took her so long to realize how much she loves the Uzumaki with or without nine tails fox demon.

"There I think you stared long enough" he blushed lifting it back down.

"You still have time too" she ignored her blushing.

"Vanille you're up."

"Okay…." The red head Pulsian nodded.

"Hold it Light, how about if we let someone do the honors" Fang interrupted the pink haired soldier giving a slight smile.

"What…?"

"We really appreciate your time to check on our brands. But how about if we let someone else take a look at her brand?"

"You…?"

"No…No I'm always doing that I have someone else in mind" the Pulsian huntress gave a grin.

The red head l'Cie stood in thought looking nervous. For as long as she has known Fang she has come to understand her facial features better than anyone. The grin that has formed on her lips was a sign that whatever she has in mind, it wasn't good, she wasn't going to like it, and also it meant danger. Either it will make her embarrassed or it will make her nervous, not sad or angry. She knew her since they were little and she knew very well Fang would never do something that will make her feel the last two choices. Hard to believe she will think such especially after she helped her patching things up with Sasuke fixing their relationship. Then it became crystal clear what she had in mind when she noticed the tall Pulsian gazing at Hope, she felt worse whatever she had in mind it included the silver haired teen. The red head had a bad feeling now what could her best friend be thinking that included a certain teen that she has developed secret strong feelings.

"Fang….?"

"Hope how about you check on Vanille's brand?" the grin has left from the Pulsian's lips.

"What me?" the teen blushed.

"Fang…." The red head replied again this time she was blushing.

The rest of the group reacted to the warrior's comment. Sazh and Lightning raised an eyebrow thinking it wasn't wise to make a fourteen year old to check on an l'Cie brand that was on the thigh of a nineteen year old which it was a bit of a provocative area. Naruto and Snow have given a grin thinking it was truly a mischievous and evil plan from the Pulsian huntress. Sasuke was the only one who didn't reacted he wasn't interested, though he knew the tall Pulsian was playing with fire with making Hope doing something like that. The young Enstheim gave a nervous gulp as he gazed over to Vanille who was blushing feeling embarrassed, which he was also in the same boat too. He couldn't do something like that he even covered his face turning the other way when Fang checked on the young girl's brand. It wasn't in his nature to peek aware that the red head's brand location was no ordinary area it was provocative especially when she was wearing quite the short skirt.

"This must be a bad dream" he lowered his gaze still blushing.

"Come on Hope check on her brand. All you have to do is to see the condition of her brand, that's all you have to see" the huntress was still grinning.

"But I…." he turned to the red head followed to the huntress then back at the blushing Pulsian.

"You don't have to do it Hope. Fang is obviously teasing you" Lightning crossed her arms.

"It's only a joke you're not oblige to do it" followed the Uzumaki.

"But it's an evil joke" he mentally grinned.

"If you're feeling nervous then don't do it buddy. You can let her check on Vanille's brand instead" said Snow.

"I understand if you don't want to do it, if you're feeling scare like a Chocobo about to get kill by a Behemoth."

"Fang that's a little low for you" Naruto replied while the pink haired soldier gave a nod agreeing with her boyfriend.

"That's enough Fang, don't listen to her Hope" Vanille stood up for the teen.

"It's okay, I'll do it…."

"What?" her eyes widened along with everyone else.

"Now that's what I call having guts" the Pulsian huntress smirked at the teen's attitude.

"I'm doing it because I care."

He meant what he said he does care for everyone on the group. Vanille was special he has come to care for the red head Pulsian a lot, across their journey she has become very close to him. Especially after they had their conversation when they were searching for the flower to cure the poison from Naruto hearing her words had made him feel overprotective of her. He didn't want another tragedy to happen to her he only wish for happiness for the red head. Nobody deserved to suffer the same fate both Vanille and Fang has to endure because of Cocoon's invasion on their village. So he didn't minded getting on his knees and lifting the girl's skirt spotting her l'Cie brand, his eyes were only focus on the mark. He noticed the mark was half open the same way as the rest of the group, she was still safe for the moment. The silver haired teen felt relief without realizing he has lifted her skirt a little too high, leading for him to see everything he has blushed immediately removing his hands getting back up.

"She still has time too."

"Way to go Hope very gutsy of you" Fang gave another smirk.

"Just drop it Fang already" Lightning gave a sigh at her teasing.

"To be young again" said Sazh.

"Let's get going we wasted too much time" said Sasuke not sounding happy.

"Hold it you're the only one who hasn't shown your brand Uchiha" the Pulsian huntress walked next to him.

"Light hasn't shown us her brand yet."

The Farron has hit her boyfriend on his shoulder while everyone sweat dropped. It was consider a dumb question considering the location of her brand. The blond jinchurikki gave a sigh he thought once he'll be in a relationship with the pink haired soldier things would change slightly and she will at least show him her brand, though he has seen it when they shared their short intimate moment. The Uzumaki rubbed his shoulder while gazing at her she didn't looked happy she had her arms crossed slight irritated for his comment. He would never mind seeing her breasts or her brand for the matter, if they were together he had the right to stare any part of his girlfriend's body as much as he likes. At least that what's his twisted perverted logic was telling him. But obviously it has to be in private not in front of a crowd.

"I think it's unfair that you get to see my brand and I don't get to see yours" he pouted crossing his arms.

"Keep running your mouth and I will hit you harder Uzumaki."

"Didn't he saw my brand when we…." The Farron stopped her thinking remembering their short intimate moment.

"Well Uchiha are you going to show us?"

"My brand is fine…."

"I won't buy that you know the rules. Light volunteered to check on everyone's brand every once in a while. It's to make sure that we still have time before heading to Cie'th city."

"I can check it on my own, I don't need someone else to check it for me" his tone was harsh.

"Do you always have to act like a sour puss?"

"Easy man if you say it's fine then we believe you" said Snow.

"We care for each other and trust each other, that is why I think we should all see everyone's brands progress" followed Hope.

"Except Light's" muttered the Uzumaki while the Farron elbowed him on the side.

"You heard Hope Uchiha now show us yours."

"I said it's fine!" shouted the former PSICOM soldier.

"Then show us if it's fine!" Fang has lost her cool with his attitude.

"Everyone….?" started Vanille nervous at the sudden tension.

"Let's get going I'm through with, this is starting to get annoying-"

"If you're not going to show everyone your brand then you will show it to me, how's that?"

"I'm not showing you anything…."

"Maybe we should you just forget the whole thing" said Sazh not liking the tension emerging from the couple.

"No he's showing his brand whether he likes it or not" the Pulsian huntress glared at the Uchiha.

"Didn't you hear me the first time? I told you I don't need someone to check my-"

The raven haired l'Cie was interrupted as Fang dragged him away from the others. She stopped once they were in the far corner of the chamber with the elevator going to the fifth tier. The Pulsian warrior has come to know the Uchiha long enough to figure out that this attitude he was showing was telling her that something was wrong. Something was really bothering him, and obviously he had no intention in telling them or her for the matter. No she wasn't going to let him kept whatever he's hiding from group, especially not to her she will figure out his problem. At the same time she had a horrible feeling in her gut that what it was bothering it definitely has to be regarding his brand. How she was hoping what it was on her mind right now, this wasn't the perfect time for it to happen not when they were so close in reaching Oerba. She gazed over his onyx eyes making sure he was paying attention to her she cared too much for him to let him keep his problems to himself.

"There we're far away from the others, now will you show me your brand?"

"I told you I'm not showing you anything. My brand is fine."

"Then let's see it. If it's fine like you say then there is no need for you to act so hostile in showing it" she glared the more this goes on the angrier she was getting and the more worried about his wellbeing.

"…" he glared at her.

"Show me already."

"I won't…."

"You're starting to tick me off Uchiha be obedient because you're really angering me. I warned you not to make me angry."

"What's the big deal? I have no obligation in showing you my brand. I'm always checking it and its fine. So drop it already."

"Show me your damn brand now!"

She lifted down his vest like she wanted to rip the uniform with her strength. However she has stopped gasping in shock as her green eyes widened in horror at what she was seeing. How she wanted it to be a really bad dream that it wasn't true, it was pretty much real what she was looking her eyes weren't deceiving her. Her worst fears have become true gazing at the Uchiha's l'Cie brand it was all opened. It looked like it needed a little push before it was completely opened she knew exactly what this means very well. It has never crossed her mind his brand will look this bad because she believed it was the same as the others almost half open which meant they still have time before they transform. It was an entire different situation for the Uchiha, his time was almost up. His day were probably number or maybe his hours she wasn't sure exactly how much time he has left but she knew it wasn't much. She stood in thought as her eyes softened the former PSICOM soldier adjusted his collar hiding the brand.

"You…." She paused what else she could say no words could come out of her mouth.

"You will not tell the others."

"You want me to stay quiet and not tell them that you're almost done….?"

"It's better if they don't know" he said with no emotion in his voice.

"Sasuke I…You shouldn't face this alone not after everything we've been through."

"What will be the point in telling them? If they find out they will start to panic and that won't help when we have to fight again. I don't want to distract them or anything to lose their concentration in battle."

"That's just an excuse they won't panic because they all know well they can turn to Cie'th any day because of the burden we're carrying. They will get worry for you anyone will feel concern for the wellbeing of their friend."

"Don't tell them…."

"I'm telling them I don't care what you think-"

"Fang please" he pulled her closer their lips were inches away.

"You don't want your friends to worry for you, that is running away. Don't look for excuses and tell me the truth why do you want to hide it from us your friends, your family?"

"If you really love me you will promise not to say a word."

"Oh so now you want to use my feelings for you as a barrier to keep them from finding out, you really are a bastard."

"Even a bastard you still care and you will always will…."

"You sound so confident that I will never change my mind about you. You sure show some guts when it comes down to it."

He kissed her lips softly, it was quick but enough for the Pulsian warrior to melt in it her eyes were clear that you wanted to continue kissing those lips.

"Can I trust you to keep this from the others?"

"I…You're serious about this?" her eyes met his.

"I am this is my problem no one else's. If they find out on their own accord then there's nothing else to do."

"All right I…I will stay quiet."

"Thanks…." He walked back to the rest of the group.

"But I won't stay quiet forever you can bet that for sure mate."

She gave a sigh walking back following him closely. They got reunited with everyone while their expressions were of curiosity obviously they haven't heard their conversation. Now the second worst part comes, the first finding out about Sasuke's brand was almost at its limit and his time was running short. The second she will have to play along and pretend like nothing was bothering her, fake she was all right and calm. That was impossible to accomplish with how affected she was after learning the truth about the man she has developed strong feelings and future husband. If she managed to pull this off she'll be safe except the biggest problem was Vanille. The red head knew her very well and she might be able to read her depending on her facial expressions and her voice tone. She needed to play this carefully not wanting to draw any suspicion to the group or her friend.

"Did you check Sasuke's brand?" asked Naruto.

"He's fine, he still have time. I don't know what was his deal of not wanting to show it to us" Fang pretended like she was all right maybe her acting was very good.

"…" Vanille was staring at her in thought.

"Always trying to bring trouble sheesh you shouldn't act so stubborn" the whiskered blond gave a sigh.

"Hn…."

"We can finally continue" replied Lightning.

"I think there was another passage from the elevator we took to get to this floor" said Hope.

"My thoughts exactly let's get going" replied the pink haired soldier.

They left the chamber getting into the passage way where the elevator stood and the silver haired teen was correct. There was another passage behind the elevator the group didn't noticed the first time they arrived on the floor. There was an entrance taking the same passage way making the group feel relief, the last thing they needed is to get lost and end up going around circle since the tower was very tall. As they reached the entrance they took a step guard their eyes were on a creature that was flying around the chamber, it was no regular monster. It was something they thought to never see again, at least for those that were back at the Pulse Vestige that was the place when they fought against the begins. The same creature that used to be human and l'Cie it was the prize they pay for not completing their focus. Fang and Vanille stood in thought obviously they weren't feeling comfortable just like the rest they have seen these creature before.

"It's a Cie'th" said the red head softly.

"It looks different from the ones we fought at the Vestige" followed Lightning.

"I guess it should be different. There are many types of Cie'th, this one is a flying type."

"But all Cie'th are still the same" Fang added her green eyes turned to the Uchiha.

"Cie'th…." said the raven haired l'Cie in thought.

"It's only one, we have the advantage. We can take it out" said Snow.

"We don't have to fight it. I'm sure everyone will agree to avoid fighting it" said the Uzumaki.

"That's fine by me no you will hear no complaints from me" said Sazh.

"There's another elevator here too. I bet it can take us to the other side of the fifth tier" said the young Enstheim.

"We'll avoid the Cie'th and get to the elevator" followed the Farron.

They waited for the flying Cie'th to get to the opposite side of the room before they ran towards the elevator. Naruto took the time to cast libra on the Cie'th it was named Varcolaci its information said it was truly weak they won't have a problem defeating it. But everyone felt the same way of not fighting it because of the fact it used to be human, they were like they l'Cie with a focus. In failing not to fulfilling it this was their faith just like every l'Cie that fails to fulfill their focus. They all boarded the elevator and Lightning did the favors in activating it and the doors closed, the machine started going up like the previous one. It didn't take long for the elevator to reach its destination floor since it was only one. Just like Hope said they were back on the sixth tier but this time, on the opposite side of the floor. Just their bad luck there was another Cie'th in the chamber and it was way bigger than the Varcolaci, it looked like an upgraded version of the Ghast they have fought before.

"We can't avoid this one" replied the Uchiha.

"He's right we will have to fight it" followed Fang.

"It's only one we can do it" said Snow.

The Cie'th was truly weak as Lightning used libra gaining the information. It was called a Vampire and it was weak to all elements with physical attacks having halved damage. But it was no problem for those who were skills in elemental magic. Together they were too much for the Vampire it was beaten quick and easy between the elemental barraged it was received. A combination of fire, wind and ice was enough to bring the Cie'th down. After they were done they took a long look at the chambers they were in. Their eyes fell on the left corner next to the elevator there was another stone guardian without its weapon. They knew they were in the right path after all to encounter another statue that will give them another monster mission to return its power. They were putting their trust on the guardians of the tower so they can aid them to the top where they will find the exit. The group got in front of the statue waiting to hear the message to their next hunting mission.

"I just hope we don't have to hunt a Cie'th" said Sazh.

"You never know, after seeing this tower filled with monsters in every floor. It could very be our next target" replied the blond jinchurikki.

"Enlightened soul, heed my plea and we shall bring light to your dark path. Know that a Vetala holds my power 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 upper tiers, the way will be opened unto you."

"This Vetala is our next target" said Snow.

"We already restored the power of one of the guardians when we defeated the Mushussu. That means there are only two left including this one" said the pink haired soldier.

"Two more monsters to hunt huh?" followed Sazh.

"I hope that will be all, we've come pretty far since we arrived here" said Hope.

"Hey Mr. Guadian statue sir!" Naruto called.

"Can you tell us about the whole bringer of heave and bringer of power thingy?"

"…."

"Great no answer, I was really hoping this one would talk."

They left the chamber spotting another area where the elevator would arrive obviously it was empty. They took the next entrance from the previous chamber where there was another guardian statue this one had its weapon. When they got closer the guardian reacted slamming his sword on the ground causing a tremor to occur. The group has experienced this before the entire tower floors were moving causing the spire to change in appearance, this only lasted for a minute. The difference was clear when they left the chamber spotting a new entrance that wasn't there before when they first passed through the passage. Entering the new room of the floor they quickly took out the vampire with elemental magic, they headed down through a staircase leading back to the fifth tier. As they climbed down they suddenly had a bad feeling that something was wrong, soon they were going to find out why.

As they left the stairs they spotted a new monster, its grotesque appearance made them believe it was another Cie'th. There was something different about it, aside from its physical appearance it looked like two Ghast Cie'th merged together. They can somehow sense this one was stronger than the Cie'th they have encountered in the tower so far. The two Pulsians members were looking a bit curious from their expressions, this was the first time they have seen a Cie'th looking this one. It wasn't a good sign that they didn't had any knowledge on it as once more Lightning casted libra on the creature. She found out it was Vetala their next target to defeat the rest of the information suggested that it has strong physical and magic resistance, executes powerful magic attacks, it has low defense when staggered, immune to physical attacks and capable of inflicting poison. This time they had a handful reading its information was enough to know that this Cie'th is very strong and it will be a pain to beat.

"We found the target. But there are bad news."

"Only bad news?" asked Sazh.

"It's quite strong it's only weak against magic and physical attacks are useless against it. Also its susceptible to deprotect."

"Meaning this one won't be easy to defeat like the others" followed Naruto.

"Finally a worthy challenge" said Sasuke.

"Don't let that overconfidence kill you" said Fang.

"If only magic can harm it that means the ones who are stronger in the field should be in the front" said Snow.

"Looks like I and Snow won't do much in this fight, but we'll watch over your backs going to the defensive" said the Pulsian huntress.

"Same strategy as before, use buff magic and while Fang and Snow is getting its attention we will unleash our strongest spells. The information mentioned its defenses are low when it's stagger we will take that to our advantage and go all out when it does. I think it might be weak against physical attacks when its stagger, but that's just a guess though" said the Farron.

"Got it!" shouted the whiskered blond.

"Guys…That thing have spotted us!" shouted Sazh in terror as Vetala charged at them ready to attack.

The group ran getting into the middle of the chamber. The first thing Vetala did is cast its inertial barrier its body was covered by a spherical shield with many pieces of many hexagon shape pieces representing its barrier that protects it against magic attacks. Fang and Snow provoked the creature getting its attention as Hope and Sazh went with buffing spell strengthening the group with haste, protect, shell, bravery and faith. Naruto, Lightning and Sasuke went on the offensive using ruin to damage it and hoping they'll be able to stagger it getting the idea that as long as it has its barrier it will be immune to physical and magic attacks. Vetala was only attacking Snow and Fang under the provoke effect, it followed unleashing multicast a powerful magic attack. Both l'Cie were able to endure its strength using steelguard while the other three were attacking it endlessly. It didn't look like any of them were stopping or the Cie'th for the matter.

Hope, Vanille and Sazh joined in the action using magic and the afro haired pilot was using ruin too. The Cie'th was still attacking both l'Cie with stellguard on while it was getting bombarded with ruin and elemental magic. With the many combined attacks Vetala was eventually staggered its barrier disappeared leaving it defenseless and weakened. It was the moment they were waiting for choosing to go all out against the creature, not wanting to give it a chance to attack. Naruto used shadow clones using aerora and holy, Sasuke used ardor and darka, Lightning cast thundara and fire. Vanille has cast deprotect to weakened its physical defenses even more and Hope used watera and blizarra. The Vetala was consumed by the many attacks it was defeated eventually, as a result the weapon of the guardian that gave them the mission appeared restoring its power.

"That thing was pretty tough" Sazh said.

"If it wasn't because we had numbers to attack it I don't think it could have been beaten" followed Hope.

"It was all over when it lost its barrier" said Sasuke.

"I can feel we're getting closer to reaching the top floor" said Naruto.

"One more statue" replied Lightning.

"One more monster to beat" followed Snow.

They resumed walking into a long corridor and hopefully they weren't any monsters as they walked further inside. The l'Cie group has arrived to the last chamber taking notice that there was an entrance that will lead outside, back to the passage. Their eyes were on the last guardian statue and the giant monster that was in the far corner of the chamber. It was similar to the Berserker they fought at the Ark but it was colored light blue so far the large creature hasn't spotted them yet. With the way things were they might have to fight it because they couldn't leave the chamber without the monster seeing them. Just in case Lightning has cast libra on the giant monster getting the information it was called Tyrant weak against lightning and water and susceptible to deprotect, deshell, poison, imperil and curse. Not the friendly type of creature to pick a fight that was for sure. Their attention turned to the guardian statue waiting to hear its message.

"Defiant soul, heed my plea and we shall bring light to your dark path. Know that a pennanggalan 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 upper tiers, the way will be opened unto you."

"They always say the same thing" sweat dropped the Uzumaki.

"Wait!" shouted the blond jinchurikki.

"Don't go! I must know if you can tell me. The other guardians called me and Sasuke bringer of heaven and bringer of power what does that mean!? Dysley said the same thing too!"

"…"

"Please I really want to know! Um…Hello are you there?"

"Naruto….?" Lightning called to him with a popped nerve on her forehead.

"What?"

The former GC sergeant gave him a mean comical expression pointing to the tyrant.

"Because of your yelling the monster heard you and he's coming here!"

"Oh it did hehe…Ahhhh!"

"Oh no what do we do!?" said Vanille.

"We fight it, we can take it down" said Sasuke.

"Forget it, we're leaving not all battles have to be fought!" said Fang.

"You don't have to tell me twice!" Sazh was running with the Chocobo chick flying passed him.

The group left the chamber running as they reached the passage way. Luckily the tyrant was too big to fit on the entrance so the creature crashed hard for not being able to stop its movements. Everyone sighed in relief thinking they were going to get caught by the giant monster. After catching their breath they resumed their walking and the first thing they saw was another guardian statue at the end of the passage. This one was holding its weapon so it wasn't going to be one who will give them a mission to restore its power. But just as they were about to get close to the statue to investigate it the Fal'Cie emerged facing the group. This is the last thing they needed just when they feel like they were close to leaving the tower, they were only one monster away from probably reaching the top of the spire.

"Back again. I'm getting tired of this. Let's double back" said Lightning.

"The guardians can't help us this time against the Fal'Cie if all three from the sixth tier don't have their power restore" said Fang.

As they ran back to the entrance the snake like Fal'Cie released a blizarra spell hitting the front where the guardian statue stood freezing the path towards it. They won't be able to investigate the statue with the frozen conditions. They will have to find another way around the floor if they want to make to the next one. They walked back to the long corridor going back up the stairs reaching the sixth tier once more. Then it hit them as they reached the floor one of the guardians changed the structure of the tower again, which meant that there could be a secret room on this floor. They left chamber walking back to the sixth tier passage where they saw a door next to the area where the elevator is supposed to arrive it was definitely a secret room. They entered the chamber realizing it wasn't empty as they thought.

In the chamber stood a swarm of chonchon four to be exact along with a different flying type of Cie'th. It was a colored blue and its appearance was a bit different from the other flying Cie'th, there was something about that particular one. Lightning cast libra again on the different one as it gained its information known as the penanggalan they have found their final target in the guardians trials. Reading further she found out the small creature is immune to all status effects but weak on the magical alignment, also that can executes powerful magic attacks, capable of inflicting poison and capable of inflicting deprotect. It wasn't an easy opponent not underestimating it from its size, but the large group of chonchon made the a bit complicated. The pink haired soldier kept her calm from her experience as a former sergeant of the Guardian Corps it was a good thing she wasn't alone or she will be in trouble against so many Cie'th.

"Don't tell me. One of those Cie'th is the target?" said Sazh.

"You guessed right" replied the Farron.

"Another Cie'th to fight" said Snow.

"There's too many of them" said Vanille.

"The blue one is the penanggalan. It's immune to all debuffs so there won't be no need to try casting those kinds of spells. It's also strong in magic attacks like the vetala, the same with inflicting deprotect and poison."

"The little critter ain't alone eh….?' said the afro haired pilot taking a look at the rest of the flying Cie'th.

"Meaning the odds will be slightly even in this fight when it comes to numbers. We already have a disadvantage when it comes to casting debuffing spells" said Fang.

"It doesn't matter if we use our regular strategy. Snow, Fang get their attention and make sure that all of them are focus on you two be careful" said the Farron.

"Right leave it to us" said the NORA leader banging his fists.

"Don't worry Light just make sure to hit them hard" said the Pulsian huntress.

"Sazh, Hope cast buff spells on all of us we'll sure hell will need them. Afterwards you will go with the offensive, Sazh try combining non magic and magic attacks simultaneously."

"Got it" replied the silver haired teen.

"No problem" followed the afro haired gunner.

"Naruto, Sasuke attack head on. Use your strongest spells and attacks if you have to."

"Is it just me or Claire looks so damn hot when she's giving orders like she was still in charge?"

"Naruto….?" His girlfriend turned to him.

"Hm…."

"Did you hear me?"

"Oh yeah I did attack it head on no holding back" he smiled.

"Good…."

"I can't believe it took me so long to realize it. She looks so sexy when she's all that serious and determined I think…I'm getting turn on. Oh no don't, control yourself this isn't the time to be thinking about those things."

"What is going on in that head of his?" thought the pink haired soldier staring at her boyfriend.

"No holding back, my kind of fight" the Uchiha gave a grin unsheathing Masamune again.

They went into position with Snow and Fang going in front as they use provoke on all five Cie'th and they got caught in the first try. Sazh and Hope went in position behind them casting buff spells with Vanille next to them casting waterga on the creatures. Lightning, Naruto and Sasuke charged in as penanggalan use its life sounding attack to inflict poison and deprotect on the gang. The red head Pulsian went to cast esuna on her friends removing the nasty alignments from them. They were surprised when the chochon were easy to defeat, all four of the flying creatures have been taken care of leaving the mission target the only one remaining. So far the only problem they saw from the Cie'th it was too small and it moved very fast which it makes it a little difficult to get hit by the their attacks.

"This thing is annoying" thought Sasuke firing dark but it missed.

"This strategy isn't working against this one…." Lightning fired her Blazefire saber but most of her shots missed her target.

"Everyone new strategy attack all out! Snow Fang!"

Naruto made shadow clones as everyone went to the offensive against the fast moving Cie'th. It used life sounding a couple of times but the, debuffs spells were removed by esuna by Vanille again. With so many numbers stacking it the penanggalan felt like there was nowhere to run and dodged as it couldn't avoid so many attacks being fired at once. The Naruto clones cast aerora and perform aerora strike, Sasuke used ardor, fira and dark, Fang and Snow used their physical attacks, with Sazh, Hope, Vanille and Lightning casting magic it was impossible to dodge so many attacks. Eventually the flying creature was caught between those strong attacks the damaged was so intense, obviously it vanished into dust getting beaten in battle. They all felt relief that the fight has ended and they have won their final mission from the trials, hopefully they might reach the exit from the tower soon.

With the penanggalan defeated the last sword was place in the guardian statue as it moved it pointing above like the other two statues. They already knew what to do next they went back to the chamber with the staircase take the long hallway that will lead them to the chamber with the exit where it will lead to the passage where the armed guardian statue was located. The same area they were previously but couldn't investigate because of the attack from the Fal'Cie's attack. By now they all believe the blizzara spell must have melted off they were all placing their beliefs that one statue will make a difference. After traveling for a while they were walking the passage and noticed that the ice spell that felt in of the statue has really melted. Things were now going their way with no problems to bother them, that's what they thought when the Fal'Cie emerged from above again wanting another greeting.

"Pick on something your own size!" said an annoyed Sazh.

"My bad!" he regretted his words when the creature was closer to them.

But the three guardians from the sixth tier arrived to fight the Fal'Cie. They charged fiercely while the creature used its tail hitting two of the guardians they vanished as soon as they hit a wall. The group gasped knowing they were in trouble but the last guardian managed to land an attack on it, cutting the last piece of ifs long tail. The Fal'Cie retreated leaving the group alone once more they were staring at the last statue. They have helped them again it was their answer for helping them restore their power by defeating the monsters. For Naruto this was the chance he was waiting for he couldn't let it slip because he might never have a chance to ask the question he's been desperately looking for an answer. There was no way he was going to let it vanish without getting his answer his curiosity was really killing him ever since he was called that term by Dysley back at the Palamecia.

"They saved us again" said Hope.

"Yeah" replied Vanille.

"You want to help us?" the red head spotted the guardian approaching them until it stood still.

The guardian only pointed to the armed guardian on the end of the passage giving them the idea to the possible way out of the tower.

"It's now or never…."

"Don't go yet! Please I must know something" the Uzumaki turned to the guardian statute still standing in the same spot.

"The other guardians have called me and my friend Sasuke bringer of heaven and bringer of power, what does it mean?"

"…"

"Can you give us an answer?"

"…."

"Come on I really want to know…."

"You seek answers from thy bringer of wind…."

"Bringer of wind…You mean me? I thought I was bringer of heaven…."

"One last task thy I and my brethren ask of you defiant souls. Slay Dahaka and thy, shall tell you everything in regards with the answer you are seeking."

"Dahaka….?"

"The tyrant that has taken over this spire and thy has brought those monsters that stole my brethren's power. Thy won't be free from its grasp until it remains alive."

"He's talking about the Fal'Cie. He's asking us to kill it" said Fang.

"All the better I've been wanted to fight that thing since we got here" replied Sasuke.

"You want us to fight a Fal'Cie? That won't be easy" said Sazh.

"Why so worried? We defeated a Fal'Cie before we can defeat another one" said Lightning reminding him when they fought Anima at the Pulse Vestige.

"All right we'll do it we'll put a stop to that Dahaka. I'm holding onto your word that you will tell us what I want to know" said the Uzumaki with a smile.

The Guardian finally vanished.

"He's gone" said Vanille.

"Let's just count our blessing. The way's clear" Snow pointed to the where the ice once stood, now it was all melted.

"Right" replied the pink haired soldier.

They resumed their walking until reaching the end of the passage. They got closer to the guardian statue until they noticed movements from it. It slammed his sword on the ground making the entire tower spin around changing its structure once more. The l'Cie group tried to hold on from all the spinning keeping their balance, or ending up falling leading to a long way down. Once it was over they were able to tell the difference, they were no longer in the same passage anymore. Going to the entrance of a chamber it was definitely a different room from the previous one. For starters, it had two Yaksha and one Yakshini which they were very easy to defeat and second there was a station for an elevator. As soon as they crossed over the invisible circle an elevator arrived. The doors opened and everyone got aboard, Naruto did the honors in pulling the lever as the doors closed. To their surprise the elevator went down instead of up.

A minute later the elevator stopped as the doors opened they were in another room and somehow, the floor looked similar. Not aware that they have reached the fourth tier of the tower they left the walking on the passage where there stood another elevator. Remembering that it was the guardian who pointed the way they needed to take, this time they hoped this elevator will take them to the top floor. The elevator went up and a minute later it opened and they were disappointed that they were back to the sixth tier. Now they were annoyed after taking two elevators they still haven't reached the top floor. Following the passage they entered through a room where there was another room with a yet another elevator. The annoyed l'Cie group boarded the third elevator while among them, a certain blond jinchurikki had a vein popped on his forehead looking ticked off.

"I swear this elevator better be the one to take us to the top floor. Or those guardians are going to get it."

"You and me both" agreed his pink haired girlfriend.

"We're all in the same boat mate" followed the annoyed Fang.

"Maybe they pull a fast one on us" said the afro haired pilot.

"Don't say that Sazh, let's believe in them. Remember they helped us against the Fal'Cie before" replied Vanille.

"I believe in them too, they can be trusted" followed Hope.

"One way to find out" the whiskered blond sighed pulling the lever making the doors closed.

The elevator has gone up again. Minutes later the doors opened and they were surprised to notice they were no longer in any of the rooms of the tower. They smiled gazing at the open sky of Gran Pulse and the view of Cocoon high above. They were feeling better realizing that they have finally reached the top floor of the tower and it was quite a relief after everything they went through to get here. The group took the time to take a look around noticing a platform at the center of the floor they were thankful there were any monsters. But they have considered the guardians request to handle the Fal'Cie in return for him to tell them what he knows the information will be useful because they might also of their different focus. Naruto and Sasuke haven't forgotten Raines words of them having a different focus aside from the rest of the group that's why they were trying to find answers by reaching Oerba. They walked towards the center platform while looking around.

"Why do I have the feeling that something's bad is going to happen?"

"Please don't say that Hope. Because usually when something like that is said we-"

The Uzumaki was cut off as the platform started moving once everyone was in it. The platform stopped moving and the first thing they saw was the Fal'Cie Dahaka landing before them the creature started glowing with lightning as it starting changing forms. The being has transformed looking like a dragon-esque form atop a giant orb. It was ready to fight the l'Cie group, by now they have taken their weapons. They were ready to fight as Lightning cast libra on it getting its information and she was impressed. Dahaka it only had fifty percent chance of being susceptible to imperil, it executes powerful magic attacks, capable of inflicting imperil and capable of bestowing faith. It was hard for her to think of a strategy to fight something so powerful. The last time they fought a Fal'Cie it was enough with only three people but this one was different than Anima. She felt useless not being able to think of a good strategy to take it down.

"Usually something bad like this will happen" Naruto finished his sentence.

"You should know by now, we have great luck" Fang replied sarcastically.

"He looks pretty feisty now" said the afro haired gunner.

"He's bluffing to scare us off. Let's just go with that, all right?" said the young Enstheim.

"Any strategies sis?" asked Snow.

"Stay on guard" it was her only reply feeling useless nothing will come up to her head.

"We beat it to death" Sasuke suggested holding his long sword.

"It's weak against imperil I'll cast the spell!" said Vanille.

"I'll aid you there!" followed the Pulsian huntress.

"Time for buff spells Hope!" said Sazh.

"You got it!"

"Everyone be careful this one should be pretty strong!" shouted the whiskered blond.

The fight began with Hope and Sazh casting buffs as mandatory still not knowing what the Fal'Cie is capable off. Haste, protect, shell, bravery and faith were definitely needed to get the upper hand. Vanille and Fang were casting imperil on Dahaka while Naruto summon shadow clones charging with Sasuke and Lightning following close by. Snow went to use challenge and entrench while the creature cast thunder hitting the NORA leader not affecting him because he was on the defensive. The shadow cloned used aerora and holy with Lightning used ruinga causing major damage and the Uchiha went with darka. Soon the rest of the group joined in the offensive attacking the Fal'Cie Sazh using blitz and aero with Hope using blizzaga and firaga, Fang attacked it head with her lance and Vanille used blizzara and thundara. They have proved they were stronger than they looked and not even a Fal'Cie can stop them.

"That's it keep it up!" shouted Naruto.

Dahaka went to fire foul utterance firing a strong beam from its back but they managed to dodge it. Snow resumed using defensive techniques like entrench and mediguard just making sure to keep the attention of the Fal'Cie only on him. Together they hammering down Dahaka making the creature difficult to unleash attacks or take the chance to counter. The creature was getting beat up badly until it got angry and prepared to use its fulminous firestorm filling the entire are with flames. Snow was caught in the strong attack and he was sent flying while the others gasped, Naruto has quickly made shadow clones to let them take the attack for the group. It was successful as every single clone has vanished it was a close one gazing at the fallen blond. Vanille and Hope were already casting cura to heal the NORA leader even if they were fighting with everything they had it wasn't going to go down so easily.

"It's a Fal'Cie it's obvious it will be tough…." thought Lightning while firing ruinga.

"I feel like fighting Dysley all over again" growled Naruto summoning more shadow clones charging using their gun blade.

"Keep your guard up don't let it fire that attack again!" shouted the pink haired soldier.

"Easier said than done mate!" said Fang.

"Its under imperil status focus use only magic!" shouted Sasuke.

"Snow you okay?" asked Hope.

"I'm okay let me catch it attention again and you guys can give it a real beating."

"You shouldn't move so quick Snow, you're really took a lot of damage from that attack" said Vanille.

"Guys it's coming this way!" shouted Sazh.

Dahaka charged at the group casting elemental magic using fire, thunder, and blizzard. Snow used provoke again and prepare to use entrench the magic attacks didn't do that much damage to the members of the group. Everyone used magic until it was staggered the Fal'Cie fell to the group from all the attacks it has received. The chance they were waiting for arrived going all out on the downed creature Naruto, Sasuke, Lightning, Fang and Sazh chose to use physical attacks to cause more damage while Vanille and Hope were attacking with elemental magic since it was their forte. The being screamed from getting beating badly it was still unable to do a thing while it was getting attack more than ever the l'Cie group had no intention of stopping. Naruto and Sasuke went further using rasengan and chidori to add more damage, Lightning cast thundaga with Fang using highwind and Sazh using blitz and ravage.

Dahaka finally got back up looking very unhappy he was ready to use his strongest attack. The creature fired once more fulminous firestorm while Snow was ready to take the powerful attack again. The tall blond took part of the attack but he was send flying by the sheer force of the fire storm while the other managed to avoid it. Hope gasped Vanille was about to get caught in the attack, he quickly ran pushing her out of the way. The red head was shocked as she witnessed the teen taking the attack for her, she watched as he fell on the ground looking like he didn't make it. Tear emerged from her green eyes from his the act of his sacrifice while everyone else stood there in shock. Lightning ran to the fallen teen checking on his injuries while Vanille was still in shock at the sight while the Farron was casting cure on the Enstheim. As for the rest Sazh was next to Snow, while Sasuke was still keeping an eye on the fight. Fang and Naruto were glaring at the Fal'Cie for what it did hurting one of their friends was unforgivable.

"Hope…Hope" the red head Pulsian was still in tears.

"Come on Hope hang in there, you're strong please hold on" Lightning's tone was full of concern she resumed casting the healing spell.

"Bastard…." the Uzumaki's eyes turned crimson red his facial features changing.

"How dare he? Hurting Hope like that and now Vanille is suffering" the Pulsian huntress glared daggers at the Fal'Cie.

"Don't lower your guard the fight is not over!" shouted Sasuke.

"No but it will be soon" the Pulsian warrior released her Eidolon crystal shattering it with her lance.

"Bahamut it's time to cause some destruction!"

The skies were filled with dark clouds as the symbol of the Eidolon's summoning circle appeared. The Eidolon appeared in his gestalt mode as Fang jumped high getting on board the flying Bahamut her green eyes were filled with anger staring at Dahaka.

(Can I blow something up now?)

"Destroy that thing!" she pointed to the Fal'Cie.

"I don't care what you have to do, I want that thing dead!"

(Hahahahahaha finally! Some wonderful destruction!)

Naruto has jumped on the Eidolon while the Pulsian was surprised to see him. Though she was more surprised to see his body filled with red energy and his eyes bloody red with his whiskered larger with sharp fangs and claws. Taking a look at him she understood that this must be the power of the demon he has inside from the time he revealed to every one of the evil has sealed within him. She didn't know if he was still himself but he must have gotten like this when Hope got hurt. It scared her he might end up hurting the others if he wasn't in complete control though he couldn't blame for feeling so angry for what Dahaka did to the teen, worst when Vanille was in pain for seeing the young Enstheim in such condition.

"You okay Naruto?"

"I'll be fine when that bastard is dead" his tone was in a feral growl.

(Time for Megaflare!)

The Eidolon started charging from its mouth the destructive black and blue colored sphere. He fired it with so much content and satisfaction overjoyed his summoner has finally given him the permission to cause some destruction and on a Fal'Cie to make things even better. Dahaka gave a growl of agony getting hit the attack while Naruto has charged a purple rasengan rage filling his heart. The others gasped at the sight while the whiskered blond has jumped from Bahamut and took the chance to aim the purples sphere of swirling Kyuubi chakra at the Fal'Cie's face. He rammed the rasengan on its face causing a large explosion along with the damage done by the megaflare, eventually the creature was killed not a chance of being alive. By now Lightning was done healing any wounds Hope have received, the rest watched as the body of the Fal'Cie has turned to dust as the fight has ended.

"Well that's that" said Sazh.

"Gotta admit that thing was tough" followed Snow.

"Hope!" Naruto ran to the group back to normal.

Fang shortly jumped out of Bahamut returning the Eidolon back into its crystal shape form. She could still hear it chuckling in content for letting him use its strongest attack, she made an exception not to complaint she did wanted the Fal'Cie dead. The Pulsian warrior with Sasuke walking next to her, she smiled at him before turning her attention to the silver haired teen.

"Is he going to be all right?" asked the Uzumaki.

"He'll be fine" smiled the Farron.

"Hope…." Vanille stood in shock her tears were still visible.

"Ugh…What happened?"

"Hey welcome back kid" saluted the afro haired pilot.

"How're you feeling?" asked the NORA leader.

"Fine I guess, wait Vanille is she-"

The silver haired l'Cie was caught in surprise as the red head Pulsian has embraced him tightly. She wrapped her arms around his neck while sobbing finally breaking in because she was terrified that he was gone because of her. She couldn't bear to see more people she cares about die before her while her heart was aching when she saw him unconscious thinking she will never see him again. But now that he was awake and safe her heart ease feeling nothing but pure joy, she hold him tightly afraid that he will disappeared if she lets him go. Hope was blushing since she embraced him speechless at her action while everyone else stood watching with a smile at the cute, adorable sight. The ones who already had an experience when it comes to love were able to notice that Vanille's hug had a lot of romantic notifications with the way she was holding him.

"Um…Maybe we should give them some space" Snow felt like he shouldn't be here.

"Maybe next time" Fang has given a small smirk.

"How are you feeling?" she finally replied breaking the hug.

"I'm okay what about you?"

"I'm okay thanks to you" she smiled drying her tears.

"You shouldn't have done that" scolded Lightning.

"I'm sorry I just felt like it, can't explain it" he felt embarrassed.

"I admit that took a lot of guts" replied the Uchiha.

"The important thing is you're okay" followed Naruto.

"And that Fal'Cie is not" Sazh replied with some humor.

"It's finally over" said the Farron.

The group saw a Guardian statue has appeared before them they knew what his presence meant. They defeated Dahaka as requested by them now it was time to fulfill their end of their bargain. The blond jinchurikki walked a few steps ahead of the others gazing at the statue, he felt like was the same one that pointed the way towards the top floor. Though he was annoyed at first because they had to take three elevators to reach the top but in the end it was worth it. Maybe he will tell them some necessary information they will need at least that's what the Uzumaki was thinking after everything they've been through since arriving at Gran Pulse. They do deserve to hear what they want to know in sincere honesty.

"You have slayed Dahaka, on my behalf of thy and all of my brethren we thank you brave defiant souls."

"Yep we stopped the Fal'Cie, now I think you own us some explanation" said the whiskered blond.

"Thy have keep my word, you shall receive the answer to your question…."

"Me and Sasuke we've been called this bringer of heaven and bringer of power before the guardians of this tower did, we have no idea what it means."

"It is written in the analects of your arrival to this world. Though you seem to have misunderstand you and your friend aren't refer to such."

"What do you mean?" asked Sasuke.

"Both of you have a different name according to the analects. One is refer as the bringer of wind and the other as the bringer of darkness. Each will bestow a power the bringer of wind is symbolized as heaven and the bringer of darkness is symbolized as power. These two symbols are what compose the savior…."

"Savior….? Who is this savior?" Naruto felt more irritated that more questions were popping out.

"The one destine to save this world. The Fal'Cie and the goddess have waited for the savior, ever since the maker disappeared. Long ago this spire was use as a shrine to worship the goddess, and before such it was right here at the top of Taejin's tower the only place for the goddess to wait for his arrival. She waited and waited and her waiting was in vain, for he never came. That is until now."

"Who is this goddess?" asked Lightning.

"He must be talking about the goddess Etro" replied Vanille.

"Etro?" asked the blond jinchurikki.

"The goddess that rules over Gran Pulse, though she disappeared thousands of years ago" said Fang.

"A real goddess existed?" said the Uzumaki.

"The answer lies in the analects, the bringer of wind and bringer of darkness play a strong role in the fate of the worlds of Cocoon and Pulse" the guardian statue finally vanished.

"Well I guess that will be enough but I'm still confused about a couple of things."

"At least he told us some useful information, better than nothing" said Snow.

"I wonder if this savior is somehow connected to the maker" said Hope.

"I'm wondering what did he meant about both bringers composing the savior?" thought Sasuke.

"This is annoying. I finally get my questions answered but now I have more questions to ask. If all of this with the savior and the goddess part of my and Sasuke's focus….? And where does the maker fits in all of this?" the whiskered blond rubbed his forehead from the incoming headache that might come.

"You okay?" Lightning went to him looking a little worried.

"I'm okay" he smiled in return.

"Look!" Fang pointed to the distance as an elevator similar to the ones from the tower arrived.

"Nice!" replied the NORA leader.

They left the platform walking to rail where it was all cracked. Nothing much was said Naruto was in deep thought the same with Sasuke, it was obviously because of the recent information they have just heard. Vanille was feeling much better now that Hope was safe, though she felt guilty for him risking his life to save her. The silver haired teen was normal happy that the red head was safe but he suddenly got the memory of her hugging him so tightly, it made him blushed. Sazh was looking relief that they have finally reached the top, defeated another Fal'Cie and now they were heading to their destination. Snow was his usual self looking happy that they were finally leaving this place. Fang was in thought her eyes were on her raven haired boyfriend remembering his clock was ticking faster than the others. Lightning was calm still looking worried about her boyfriend because he was confused wanting to know more of the new information.

"Oerba's right down there, isn't it?" asked the young Enstheim pointing beyond the stone railing.

"Yep" replied the cheery red head.

"So what's it like?" asked Snow.

"Well, it's kind of small. But it's warm and green, and very naturey!"

"If it still looks like that" Fang mentally sighed doubting her friend's words since it's been five hundred years since they have set foot in their home village.

"Around the Fal'Cie, it was flowers as far as you can see, huh?" she replied trying to be positive.

"View from here ain't so rosy, I'm sorry to say" said Sazh getting a long look in the distance.

"What?" the red head Pulsian lowered her gaze in disappointment.

"You want to wait here?" asked Lightning.

"No…I need to see for myself."

Vanilled walked towards the edge of the railing with Fang following her, as her gazed ahead she felt a lump on her throat. She felt when he heart was shattered because what she looking there wasn't a single flower that could mark the true beauty that is Oerba. The Pulsian huntress stood in thought angry on the inside that she was right all along after hundreds of years their village was nothing but a memory now. There was no beauty in the slightest, not ever since Cocoon and the Fal'Cie invaded their home. The one person who was suffering the most was her red headed friend because she loved the village so much she has always been loyal to her family and its residents.

"It's all gone…."

"Every trace of color..." the Pulsian warrior suddenly got upset.

"We're chasing shadows. This whole idea of losing our brands is hopeless!"

"There's got to be a way" said the NORA leader.

"Let's keep on looking. That's what we came here for. We all agreed and now we're here" followed the teen.

"That's right! Hope is absolutely right we can't give up now!" Naruto smiled finally snapping from his long train of thought.

"Somebody is acting a little cheery" Lightning smiled happy to see him back to his normal self.

"Of course we finally reach the top floor and now we're heading to Oerba. What other reason do I need to feel happy? Fang you can't start acting negative if we haven't even reached your village yet. Let's focus in getting to Oerba first. We didn't travel very far just to stay here and say its hopeless right?"

"Naruto's right and we can't forget we'll be able to see the analects at Oerba. You and Sasuke will get your answers and maybe we can find ours when it comes to losing our brands" said Vanille.

"His attitude is contagious. Whenever I hear his words I feel like I can forget all my troubles" said Sazh.

"That's Naruto for you" smiled Snow.

"As long as any of you don't start acting stupid like him" said Sasuke.

"At least I don't have emo disease" the blond jinchurikki gave a grin.

"Ouch that's a low blow" followed the trench coat blond.

"Hn…."

"There's no going back" said the Farron the Pulsian warrior.

"You don't think I know that?

"I agree with Naruto, we all do. What about you?"

"…"

"Let's get going I really want to see Oerba!" shouted an over excited Uzumaki.

"He's like a little kid" Vanille giggled.

"Tell me about it" replied the pink haired soldier.

As everyone left heading to the elevator that will take them outside of the tower, Fang was the only one who stood still in the same spot. She was in deep thought on so many things like her village that it wasn't the same anymore, that she and Vanille we're the only Pulsians alive in the entire world, that their journey was hopeless and meaningless with no choice but to fulfill their focus and there was also Sasuke and the time his brand has before he transforms. Her worst fears that everyone will become Cie'th and there will be nothing she can do are starting to become true. And even if she highly believed there was a way to lose their brands, she was starting to lose hope. It was better to look at things to truthful point of view instead of believing in something that you wanted to believe it's true. Then she felt a hand on her shoulder turning to see Sasuke looking a bit worried.

"Let's go, we're leaving…."

She gave a nod as she left following the Uchiha while she could see the others climbing to get to the elevator. Her green eyes were on the raven haired l'Cie remembering the painful truth he will be the first to transform. The thought of losing was haunting her and it scared her so much, but it was normal to be feeling this way because she knew how deep her feelings for the Uchiha were. No more thoughts came to her head as she joined her friends concluding it was better to live these moments and enjoy them for the rest of her life. Because she might never see any of them again, though she was beyond happy and grateful to have met all of them it made her smile at the irony. People from Cocoon the same world she has sworn to despise and destroy has become her closest friends, people she was willing to give her life without a second thought.

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Square Plaza city district Eden inner rim Cocoon)

Primarch Dysley walked the large platform he stood over a crowd of thousands of people. This was an event he has planned in telling the Cocoon citizens a very important announcement. Everyone was watching there were flying cameras present recording the event as every single person will be watching the broadcast. In every corner of the plaza were PSICOM soldiers as well as Sanctum archangels they were keeping a close watch as the personal security of the primarch. Rosh was in the same platform where the elder man was present, he watched him walking towards a microphone ready to talk to the people. The PSICOM commander stood in deep thought he was taking the duty as being his personal bodyguard since Naabat was no longer with them. His eyes moved to the crowd doing his duty that the primarch was in no danger whatsoever, but his mind went to a certain conversation with the elder man.

"It saddens me greatly the loss of lieutenant colonel Naabat as well as lieutenant Parlos. Both were loyal to the Sanctum and protected Cocoon with their last breath."

"They will always be remembered your eminence. I always honored great soldiers. Now I have come to bring in my report regarding my investigation."

"Yes the investigation of the shield that protects our beloved Cocoon. You have been investigating endlessly with the situation when the shield was deactivated, which lead for the l'Cie to entered Eden."

"So far, from what I have gathered there is no possible explanation to why it was deactivated. I have interrogated every member of the shield security team and they all claimed it was pretty much activated when the incident took place. From my research after a couple of test they seem to be telling the truth. The only explanation I can come up with is…If the shield somehow was deactivated on its own but that is impossible…."

"Are you saying an unknown force deactivated the shield?"

"I really don't know what to say…It is my duty to find the identity of the culprit."

"There won't be any need to investigate further colonel. There are more important matters to attend to."

"Forgive me your eminence but if there is a traitor in Cocoon who is secretly aiding the l'Cie, it's my responsibility to find out who he is and bring him to justice."

"As I said there are more important matters to attend to. I know how dedicated you are to your work colonel. I would like to take this opportunity to discuss those matters with you."

"As you wish your eminence…." He stood in deep thought.

"First I strongly suggest you strengthen the security in Eden from now on."

"Strengthen security…What for?"

"You should know by now colonel Rosh. The l'Cie are bound to return to Cocoon they possess a strong will to survive, the lengths they are willing to go through to fulfill their focus are unimaginable."

"That will not happen as long as I'm standing here breathing."

"Then I can trust you to prepare our honorable forces for the upcoming attack."

"You can always put your trust in me. I will keep Cocoon safe you have my word."

"Excellent my child I expect nothing less of you colonel. Now as for the second matter, I have an important announcement to tell the people of Cocoon tomorrow. You will be the first to know, I shall be departing in taking my permanent retirement as primarch of the Sanctum and lord sovereign."

"What?" Rosh stood in pure shock.

"Alas no need to panic colonel I wouldn't consider such choice without choosing a proper replacement."

"And who might that be….?" He thought the news were truly shocking.

"That will be known tomorrow, be patient."

"He pushed aside my investigation like it didn't matter a thing to him at all…."

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

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

"I will be surprise if it was true somehow. I don't want to believe the primarch the man who has keep Cocoon safe for many generations will be responsible for lowering the shield. For him to be label as a traitor is inconceivable ….I wondered if it's a coincidence that I was so close in my investigation he chooses to retire from his position."

"Fellow citizens of Cocoon today I have an important announcement to make. I am pleased that we're all enjoying this peace given to us after the sudden threat of the l'Cie. However Eden has given me a message I have consider it to be absolute for establishing a better future for Cocoon. It saddens me to say this but I will be stepping down as your primarch."

The crowd gasped in shock they obviously weren't expecting to hear quite the news. Dysley raised his hand telling them to calm down as the people did, but they were very curious to know of this news.

"However fear not my children keep your heart's content. I may be stepping down, but I have already chosen the perfect replacement to carry out my wishes, my vision and to follow in my footsteps. He is without a doubt the rightful man to be my successor as your new primarch. Now citizens and children of Cocoon it is an honor to introduce to you your new primarch…."

A man walked over the platform meeting the gazes of every single person present in the plaza. The people were really surprised expecting him to be the last person to be taking the position. Rosh was shocked from the surprise he also wasn't expecting him to be the one. The man gave a respected bow to Dysley as he nodded in return turning back to the crowd.

"Allow me to introduce you to former general and brigade of the Sanctum Guardian Corps Cid Raines."

Raines smiled as he shook hands with the elder and now retired primarch he took the stand taking the microphone. He was ready to give his first speech to the people.

"Raines of the Sanctum GC I never expected him to be his eminence's pick" thought the PSICOM commander.

"Fellow citizens of Cocoon I am deeply honored and pleased to have been given this opportunity. And also honored for his eminence Dysley to have chosen me to take such a humble position as his replacement, I am truly pleased to have been picked as your new primarch. I am just another soldier within the Sanctum that loves Cocoon as much as any of you therefore I will make sure to keep all of you safe. I will guide our wonderful planet to an endless age of peace and prosperity where there will be no threats to break that peace. Fear not, for I will do my best to protect all of you and lay my life on the line."

The people have been touched by his speech they were clapping excitedly for the new primarch. Dysley watching the entire thing with a smile, but on the inside he was grinning. Everything was going according to plan he has retired meaning he can do things his way more often now. There was no need to hide his intentions anymore with Raines in charge as primarch. He was well aware the l'Cie we're still in Gran Pulse and they will be returning one way or the other because it was fate for them in doing so. It has always been about fulfilling their focus, but for him it has always been about the death of Orphan and the summoning of the maker where it will mark a new beginning for Cocoon. All in due time for their return after all the many years he has waited, but patience was his biggest strength in the end it will be worth it.

---

(Scene change)

Somewhere in Palumpolum the NORA gang watched the entire broadcast form one of the large screens. They had no idea what to say or think though some like Gadot saw it as a bad sign because he has always seen the Sanctum and PSICOM as corrupted individuals. They were more worried about the safety of their leader and the rest of their friends after not hearing or seeing from them for an entire month and counting. They resume watching but with little interest they all felt like it wasn't worthy to live here anymore, but they were still doing their best to survive and hold on. They were NORA and like their blond leader they were too stubborn to give up. Maqui, Yuj and Lebreau resume watching while Gadot decided not to watch anymore because it was boring the hell out of him.

---

(Scene change)

In a bar in Bodhum stood Amodar while Janil and Aidan chose to tag along with their former superior, they have watched the broadcast too. The two former GC soldier didn't know what to think because neither of them knew Raines but Amodar was in deep thought. He tried to focus on his drink but it was hard to do so when he's watching some disturbing news. The former lieutenant didn't know him that much but he has talked to him a couple of times in the past and he knew Raine's ideas were different from that of the previous primarch. There was no way he will accept his vision it made him believe something was really wrong, but what would matter to him if he was no longer a soldier of the Sanctum. He was now a civilian who still cares for his people and Cocoon he had a bad feeling where all of this was heading.

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Lindblum Bridge above the skies of Cocoon)

"Son of a bitch…."

Rydgea has cursed quite angry at what he was seeing, not just him. The entire crew that composed of the Cavalry has witnessed the unthinkable as their superior in command has fallen so low to join their enemy. They were against Dysley and the Fal'Cie rule and here they were watching their former general becoming the new primarch and supporting what they are fighting against. They were all disappointed and others were upset with what they were seeing they wanted the people to rule over Cocoon but their former leader has chosen to cling to the ideals of the Fal'Cie they have all lost respect for him. At first the second in command thought Raines didn't make it since he left without giving an explanation but now, that didn't matter after seeing what he was planning all along. One thing was pretty clear the Cavalry wasn't planning in letting this go easily, especially Rydgea.

"These were the matters you needed to attend to Raines? To become a dog of the Fal'Cie you damn traitor."

---

To be continued

Good news to all readers of the story. I will start working on the next chapter right away because I feel like it lol. You all must be shocked that Sasuke's brand is more open than the others meaning he'll be the first to transform, I will remain quiet and let you guess what I have plan for him further. On another note oh yes we are now so close for the lemon chapter its right around the corner stay tune. I never get tire of saying thank you to everyone reviewing and resuming to follow the story and marking it to favorites thank you very much. That will be all I will see you all next time farewell!

Next time: The truth of the analects