Saviors or Destroyers?

by Gravenimage

Follow the events of the game with a few added new things and individuals together they will try to save their world or simply destroy it, will they choose their fate or someone else's Lightning/OC Hope/OC in further chapters.

6. Focus

Chapter 5 Focus

Disclaimer: nope I don't own FFXIII just the story.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

Italics and underline Eidolons speaking

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Previously….

The group entered Anima's chamber with hope that the Pulse Fal'Cie will change Serah Lightning's younger sister back to normal from her crystallized form, even if it means they will have to use force. Snow begged the Fal'Cie to change her back and he will gladly become his l'Cie if he does however it fell on deaf ears as Anima didn't replied. Seiryu realized that it couldn't hear him because according to him the being was asleep, however Lightning had already planned to use force from the start. Anima shortly woke up just when the detonators that PSICOM placed all over the Vestige activated since it was their mission to destroy the place instead of sending it to Pulse just like killing the Purge victims. They fought against Anima and managed to become victorious with a terrible price to pay, the Fal'Cie has marked everyone from the group with its brand.

For unknown reasons Anima spoke to Seiryu telepathy telling him that he will send him and everyone to safety in order to survive the destruction of the Vestige. Grateful the drifter was willing to fulfill whatever its final wishes may be in which the Fal'Cie tells him that he marked every one becoming l'Cie. He also tells him to help them fulfill their focus which is to stop the Fal'Cie's from Cocoon obviously he accepted its final will. When the group woke up they found themselves at Lake Bresha located below the Hanging Edge which the lake turned to crystal after the Vestige crash landed soon after they all have realized the horrible truth that they have become Pulse l'Cie enemies of Cocoon. They also find out the abilities they gained for becoming l'Cie among them is the ability to cast magic, feeling like everything was lost for them Sazh believed that they were doomed to destroy Cocoon being marked means that they have been given a focus to fulfill, and all of them had the same vision of the monster of pure hatred and wrath known as Ragnarok at the Sanctum's capital.

Feeling optimistic Snow tries to convince the group that their focus is to save Cocoon because it was Serah's last wish before she turned into crystal, which most of them didn't believed him namely Seiryu. Lightning wasn't happy of the bad turn of events so she kept her distance from the rest of the group while everyone else introduced themselves starting to forge a bond of friendship. Although she wasn't interested in forging a friendship with the group she started gaining a high level of respect for the drifter, she even followed him in battle proving of her new respect for him. They finally found Serah while Snow was determined to get her out of the crystallized ground she was stuck on. Lightning suggested that they should leave before PSICOM found them the military branch was scouting the region searching for any Purge survivors. Snow chose to stay behind trying to break his fiancée free while everyone else left and Lightning was angry at him for his positive attitude that he was going to save Serah and Cocoon when so far he hasn't done anything good or make any progress whatsoever.

While encountering some PSICOM forces the group found out the truth about Seiryu, that he was blind. They obviously were shocked and some didn't believe him when he has shown skills and strength that no one would have thought to possessed, it was difficult to tell of his blindness. Although Vanille seems to have taken a high level of curiosity towards him and hope to know more about him. Back with Snow he has managed to take out a large number of PSICOM soldiers while in the distance he was being watched by another group of soldiers and a mysterious woman by the name of Fang. Meanwhile Lightning and the other reached some ruins unfortunate for them it was surrounded by PSICOM units, lucky for them Seiryu managed to get rid of them all leaving the weaklings alive. After taking down the Garuda interceptor they find an air ship that will take them out of the crystallized lake, while unaware to them they were being watched by an unknown entity and Seiryu realized that.

The story resumes….

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Lake Bresha a silent maelstrom below the Hanging Edge outside of Cocoon)

Snow panted hard as he was exhausted he has actually taken out all of the PSICOM forces that found him he has lost count on how many he has taken out. His hands were shaking as he was still holding the automatic rifle he took from one of the PSICOM rangers he should feel happy that he safe and now he will be able to continue trying to break free Serah's crystallized form from the ground, at least that's what he thought. As soon as he defeated the units more soldiers arrived there were trackers and rangers this time their numbers have double and they have now surrounded him, he finally realized that he won't be able to take all of them on his own with how tire he was even if he was now an l'Cie he still had a limit. He has never known the meaning of the word quit or giving up heroes never quit that's what he will always say, but maybe today he wasn't so lucky.

He has reached his limit he knew the chances of beating so many PSICOM units were very low in his current condition, in addition that they were all armed. The reality hit him bad he wasn't going to make it this many opponents he will die he was really out of options and he used the last grenade he had against the group of soldiers from earlier. The harsh reality that he was going to fell, that he was going to die his whole life started to flash before his eyes. His childhood as he grew up with his closest friends Gadot and Lebreau in Bodhum, the foundation of NORA their first mission as a team, his first orders as leader and eventually the first time he meet Serah. Memories where he shared with the younger Farron happy memories falling in love with her to the day he proposed to her, even if her older sister didn't approve of the wedding. He didn't shed a tear thinking about her remembering her fate as an l'Cie that lead her to become crystallized, he wasn't ready to let go and die.

"Serah….I promise I will protect you I promise to marry you and love you forever, I'm your hero I would never break a promise I will save you…."

He fell on his knees ready to give up as he was too tire to even get up or land a punch seeing the PSICOM soldiers clicking their rifles ready to fire. It was the end for him knowing he won't be able to stop this death was inevitable for him he won't see any of his friends or his beloved, the last thought made him feel full of determination gaining strength from the woman he promised to love and stand by her side forever. He couldn't believe he almost give up or that he was about to break his promise to Lightning about saving both Serah and Cocoon. He never realized while his determination and courage was building up a blue magi circle has appeared on the ground causing the soldiers to take a few steps back, obviously they were starting to freak out at the sight.

"A hero never breaks his promise…."

"Snow make sure you come back to us, remember that we're in this together."

He remembers Seiryu's words he was going to see them again" we're going to save Cocoon and save you….Serah!"

"I will not lose!"

The PSICOM soldiers were all shocked as they saw emerging from the blue circle on the ground two figures which they were quite a sight. Both looked like they were women in blue colored and mechanized looking, one of them seems to be holding some kind of wheel both definitely didn't looked normal while the other one had a wheel on the back of her head. Snow was shocked too the two mechanized women were in front of him like they were on his side they were facing his enemy. The group of PSICOM units was about to fire at them as the mechanized woman that wasn't holding a wheel fire a Blizzaga spell freezing and killing half of the rangers, the women with the wheel attack the other half with a strong physical attack. Soon they were taken out which shocked the tall blond a lot he never thought so many soldiers would be beaten in such a short period of time.

The two women turned to him which was enough to make the gang leader realized that it was now his turn. It was too good to be true that the two ice beauties were on his side they were just taking care of the rest as he had a feeling that they were after him. He was too exhausted from the previous fight he couldn't take on the large group of PSICOM what were the chances of him taking on these two, who they defeated the soldiers in a matter of seconds. It was very bad for him and even if the odds were against him he wasn't going to give up he still had promises to fulfill, he vowed to never let anyone down ever again.

"Your determination has summoned us l"Cie"spoke the woman with the wheel on the back of her head.

Snow's eyes widened" what….I can hear them talking in my head?"

"It is time to begin the test" replied the one holding the wheel.

"Test….?"

"Doom"

The tall blond felt a huge surge through his body as his blue eyes widened he could see before a countdown that stated at ten minutes and counting, he could felt that with the time passing his heartbeat was decreasing in speed little by little.

"What is this….?"

"When the countdown reaches cero your life will end."

"What?"

"How much can you endure?"

Snow didn't know what they were talking about until he was hit by the wheel of mechanized woman he got up but soon he was hit by a Blizzard spell by the second being knocking him back to the ground. He growled he was really hurt, exhaustion and wounded were a bad combination that he didn't wanted to experience. He already did knowing that he couldn't take on both of them in his current condition it will be suicide to fight them on equal level when he has already experienced some of their power.

"They are very strong I can't fight them like this I don't stand a chance, but what can I do?"

The Eidolon Shiva threw her wheel while the other one cast Blizzara he was once again hit groaning in pain, if it wasn't for the fact that he was an l'Cie now he would have die like the PSICOM soldiers it was the only reason why he has survived till now. He got up standing on one knee panting looking at them they were going to resume their assault on him while he was still looking at the countdown for his life, he only had eight minutes left.

"I can't beat them with strength alone my only chance to survive is to go to the defensive maybe then I can find an opening and beat them."

The blond went to a defensive position activating one of his new abilities as an l'Cie in the defense department it's known as the Steelguard technique. His body glowed in a yellow armor after doing he seemed to have make a big mistake both Shiva Eidolons have increased the speed of their attacks the one holding the wheel attacked with a barrage of kicks and tossing her wheel, while the other one cast Blizzara again followed by Blizzard. He groaned although he wasn't feeling any pain due to the defensive armor around his body but the effect of Steelguard wasn't going to last forever, it had a time limit. He performed the ability again as he got hit by a barrage from Shiva's wheel attack and the other one performed two Blizzara spells, once again he didn't got hurt as he was shielded by the yellow armor surrounding his body.

"This isn't getting me nowhere what can I do….?"

His eyes widened staring at the timer to his death" wait what did they say before?"

"How much can you endure?"

"That must be it….they say I have to take a test so this test must be about endurance, defense is the key. That means all I have to do is to continue taking their attacks I hope I'm right."

He kept his Steelguard up as the two Shiva sisters continued their assault on him without showing any mercy or stopping. The clock was ticking he, only had five minutes left before his life ends he received more blows by the physical Shiva with kicks and attacking with her wheel while the spell Shiva used Blizzard twice. The technique went off and he activated again he didn't know how in the world he hasn't collapse by now from his exhaustion, he was really stubborn he had no plans to die here he needed to save Serah and save Cocoon like she asked him. The sisters looked at each other they got ready to attack once again the Shiva with the wheel casted Blizzara while her sister casted Blizzaga the same spell she used to take so many soldiers of PSICOM out.

Snow went to a more defensive position with Steelguard as his body was hit by massive blocks of ice the magic type Eidolon has fired the strongest ice spell there is, the blocks shattered he was still standing. Even with the yellow armor on however he was still hurt not as much too deeply wounded or killed though. He got scared fearing the worst as the counter for his life was in two minutes expecting that the two Eidolons were going to continue attacking him, to his surprise they have stopped. Both of them were staring at him before they looked at each other, just like that the spell type Shiva dispelled the Doom placed on him getting rid of the timer of his life.

"What just happened?"

"Congratulations l'Cie you have pass the test…."

"I did it….I passed" the tall blond felt so relief.

"It seems he's the one we have been searching for sister" replied the spell Shiva.

"And he's quite a catch too" the physical type Eidolon blew him a kiss.

"Nix!" she scolded her twin sister.

"Don't give me that look Stiria you feel the same way too."

"Hmph…."

"Okay…." Snow was dumbfounded at the situation before him.

"Let's pretend we didn't had this conversation" said Stiria.

Snow smiled happy to have passed the test it seems like he already know the name of his Eidolon all along" Shiva!"

The twin sisters started floating in the air as they got together merging to form their Gestalt mode, both have transformed to a surprisingly motorcycle. The blond hop on staring at his new ally and weapon he felt proud to have gained such power, and he knew it was all part because he was an l'Cie.

"Snow Villiers our power is yours to command" Stiria said.

"We will fight by your side whenever you need us cutie" Nix's tone was of flirting while her twin sister ignored her not brothering to scold her again for being such a flirt.

"Right thanks" he had to sweat dropped at the last part these were the times he was glad Serah wasn't here or Lightning for the matter, because he knew there will be some trouble if any of them witness his Eidolons flirting with him.

Suddenly the motorcycle was gone as the Shiva sisters decided to leave their new master for a moment they turned into a blue crystal and went into his right forearm where his I'Cie brand mark is located, Snow has actually forgotten that he was very exhausted and with a few wounds on him. Now he could continue with trying to break Serah from the ground he just needed to find where he put that metal piece he was using to break the crystal ground. As soon as he took one step he collapse to the ground he has obviously forgotten that he was too tired to stand let alone walk, he will take a rest before resuming his rescue on his beloved.

"Looks like I won't be getting anywhere any time soon…."

He suddenly heard rifles clicking looking next to him he gasped there was a group of soldiers wearing blue armor they looked different from the armor PSICOM wears. He didn't noticed four soldiers passing him by as they headed towards Serah they were planning in getting her out of there. Snow was shocked he couldn't believed more soldiers from the military would come it was impossible to fight in his condition he felt like he could really give up now, it really felt hopeless. He was upset after everything he has done only to die here having a guess that either he will get capture or killed, that's when he saw a woman walking up to him she was smirking staring at him.

"You're very lucky luv to be able to tame the Eidolons powers to use it for your own, not many l'Cie has ever done what you did."

"If you want to kill me then go ahead and get it over with" he glared at her.

Fang shook her head" don't jump to conclusions yet there's still some work to be done…."

"You're with PSICOM I'm an l'Cie you obviously want me dead, I'd rather die than becoming your servant.

The young beauty dropped her amused expression getting closer to him with a glare" you want to continue breathing, then shut up and come quiet?"

The blond didn't trust her when he saw some soldiers passing him by with a hover craft with his crystallized fiancée" Serah!"

"What are you planning to do with her?"

"If I were you I worry about myself."

He glared at her before he noticed something in her right shoulder, it looked like a brand mark but it was covered with another mark colored white" you're an…."

He didn't finished as he finally collapse unconscious from complete exhaustions and his injuries while Fang smiled at his sleeping form" sweet dreams luv…."

Two soldiers came to picked up the unconscious Snow as they took him away while another soldier came to the only woman in the group.

"We have what we came here for we're heading back now."

Fang nodded following the soldiers before she gazed at sky noticing a silver and white owl flying by she smiled" a sign of good luck today will be a good day."

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Lake Bresha Echoes of the past)

Everyone has boarded the air ship located at the end of the ruins feeling grateful that they were finally leaving the crystallized lake. They have taken their seats, Lightning on front, next to her was Seiryu, on the opposite side was Vanille and Hope was seated behind the pink haired soldier and the blind drifter. Sazh has taken command on driving the ship since he was a pilot he had experience with flying these kinds of air craft's, whether the group didn't questioned his flying skills namely Lightning. The former sergeant of the Guardian corps argued to pilot the ship when they boarded but the afro haired gunner insisted because he knows what he's doing, for now she decided to go along with it. Sazh activated the engines and to everyone's relief the ship started running they dispelled the thoughts that it was broken, he took the controls ready for lift off.

"Here we go."

He pulled the lever up making the ship fly upward as it started flying away from the ruins. The group saw from the window the scenery of the ruins they flying passed them, hopefully they will leave in no time without attracting too much attention. Unfortunately they weren't so lucky as they were expecting them to escape flying ahead they were greeted by a group of PSICOM fighting ships firing at them. The afro haired pilot pulled the ship up flying upwards reaching their destination above Lake Bresha but they were greeted by more unit ships firing their blasters at them. Lightning already knew the design and model of the ship they were aboard, as a former soldier she knew where the weapons systems were located.

"Oh no there's more of them!" shouted Sazh.

"Give me that" the pink haired soldier pressed the buttons on the control handle.

The ship fired its machine guns destroying one of the PSICOM fighters after them but there were still plenty of them left.

"Did we get them?" asked Vanille.

"We got one of them" replied Lightning with a small frown because there were plenty of them left.

The ship was flying passing through the ruin as more PSICOM fleets were still after them firing their weapons with no mercy, they have made their point that they want to send their ship down.

"They're still behind us!" Hope said alarmed.

"Let's settle down everyone" Seiryu tried to be the voice of reason in calming the group but it fell on deaf ears, the group was already in panic.

Sazh was annoyed that the pink haired soldier was trying to take the controls of the ship she obviously wanted to drive it instead of him he was already having trouble piloting the ship with the unwanted company behind them.

"Stop that."

Vanille and Hope were the first to screamed in panic due that they were being chased down by dozens of PSICOM ships in addition of the high speed the ship was flying. Seiryu couldn't help it he has been trying to calm down but by now he was starting to panic obviously he didn't show it screaming like the silver haired teen behind him and the red haired girl next to him but he was concerned. To this day he was still wondering how he ever got into this situation.

"I'm having one of those days it seems…."

"Hey I said stop" Sazh finally had it with the pink haired soldier's attitude to take the controls he roughly took her hand from the lever" you want to die?"

She finally stopped arguing and stood behind him, she took her seat shortly not happy with this while the drifter sighed. The ship was flying reaching the exit of the ruins while the military drones were still after them firing their weapons they were still on this wild goose chase.

"How are you going to lose them?" asked a panicked Hope.

"You got me kid."

"Then let me!" argued the former Guardian corps soldier.

"No thank you…."

"Lightning Sazh is a pilot let's put our trust in him" Seiryu said doing the effort of calming her down although he had the idea that if she took control of the ship she will retaliate against the PSICOM ships, destroying every last one of them.

"Yeah what he said cool your engines girl" replied the afro haired pilot.

The pink haired soldier glancing at the blind drifter seated next to her maybe she was really over reacting but she needed to pilot the ship. In order to prevent them from chasing them she needed to get rid of them first to end the chase not considering the consequences will bring them more trouble, meaning more PSICOM reinforcements.

Sazh pushed down the lever they were finally out of the ruins and Lake Bresha passing some of the clouds. What lies before hand was the beautiful sight of the bright morning sky, Vanille was in awe seeing the sight it felt good to finally see the sun after being in a place like the Hanging Edge and below it. Of course and sadly there was no time for sightseeing or enjoy the nice view because they were still being chased and attack by the military ships.

"They're still on us?" replied the afro haired gunner.

"They are quite a persistent bunch" Seiryu said while Lightning had to agree with a nod it was PSICOM after all.

He flied the air ship dodging the incoming fire from the many enemy ships but he wasn't so lucky, eventually he couldn't dodge all of them. The ship was eventually hit on the back while receiving another causing a couple a couple of tremors aboard.

"We're taking hits…."

The ship descended on a valley between the river the afro haired gunner was doing everything he could to lose their pursuers but it was working, they were still receiving enemy fire.

"Come on give me a break!"

He finally increased the speed it was their last resort to lose them" hang on….!"

The air ship left the valley heading upward into the blue sky reaching high altitude although it wasn't working still, the PSICOM ships were still onto them and they have also increased speed. The ship reached so high into the sky that everyone was almost blinded by a bright light as they got further ahead they saw the source for the light. Vanille was once again in awe as they were staring at a giant mechanical being releasing what it seems to be natural solar energy everyone probably knew what it was. Seiryu felt the energy heat hitting his body feeling it he recognized the source he was well aware like the rest.

Sazh smiled at the sight" a Sanctum's Fal'Cie up close and personal Cocoon's own light in the sky" his chocobo chick made a quick appearance from his afro before it went back in.

"Phoenix" replied the drifter while everyone looked at him.

"Yes that's the Fal'Cie that gives Cocoon it's solar energy and light Phoenix is also known as the living sun" replied Vanille.

They were suddenly hit by more fire from the enemy.

The afro haired gunner sighed" here we go again."

Lightning obviously hasn't forgotten that they were still being chased by PSICOM" fly in we'll lose them there."

The afro haired pilot nodded feeling happy that she wasn't trying to take command of the ship he followed orders and flew straight towards the solar Fal'Cie. The unit ships followed the group into the solar light of Phoenix which it dodged while others weren't so lucky and got destroyed in the energy.

"I like this Fal'Cie" Sazh made a humor comment since most of their pursuers got destroyed by the being.

Unfortunately they got hit one more time and that was enough for the ship to reach its limit. The ship was now tumbling and it began to lose altitude they were experiencing some turbulence as it was now heading downward into the land below. The afro haired did everything he could to keep the ship stable but it wasn't helping at all everyone else aboard went to panic again, Vanille got scared while Hope was screaming. Sieryu was probably in the same boat but he remained quiet while Lightning was either annoyed or upset that they were going to crash.

"This is it looks like this is as far as we go, its end of the ride for us" said Sazh.

"No I don't want to die!" said Hope.

"These are the times I'm grateful to be blind" the drifter was happy that he wasn't going to witness the sight of a crash landing.

"Everyone hang on we're going down!"

---

(Time skip)

(Location: Vile Peaks Dismal Dunescape outside of Cocoon)

The air ship has crash landed in a place with lots of mountains but they didn't looked normal, they resemblance like they were made of trash. The party was moving slightly waking up to find that they were still alive the inside of the ship was totally wrecked, it was broken probably impossible to repair.

Sazh was still in the pilot leaning on his seat he would have suffered a head injury from the crash if his afro didn't saved him it was used like an airbag while his chocobo chick was flying around like it was trying to wake him up. Lightning was awake but she didn't said a word remembering what just happened, who would even consider taking a rest after crash landing or even take the time to stay unconscious. Seiryu was awake too he was only taking time to check that he was all right he was saved not to see firsthand the terrible crash, it seems being blind had it's good sides after all. Vanille was slowly opening her eyes she didn't feel all right but she made sure not to have any injuries so she could cast cure, or her new friends. Hope was awake but he was still feeling scared about the crash that wouldn't, at least any fourteen year old would freaked out after experiencing something like this.

"Is everyone all right?" asked Sazh looking at the group inside the destroyed ship.

"I'm okay nobody is hurt?" asked Vanille.

"I'm all right" replied Seiryu.

"What just happened?" said Hope.

"We crash landed" Lightning said in an obvious matter.

"That beside the point" replied the blind drifter.

They finally left the destroyed air ship they were now gazing where they were. Looking over the day sky and the entire place that resembled a junkyard it obviously looked even worse than the last place they were in. Lightning however recognized the area since she has done a couple of missions here back when she was with the Guardian corps she sighed mentally she was still far away from the destination she had in mind.

Sazh sighed so much has happened in the last hours boarded the Purge train, entered the Vestige, get marked by a Pulse Fal'Cie becoming l'Cie, landed on Lake Bresha, leave the place while been hunted down by PSICOM and now crash landed in a place that looked like worst than the crystallized lake. And after fighting so many monsters all he was thinking about was catching a long rest who knows when the next monster attack may be, in fact he didn't even wanted to think about it.

Seiryu was probably in the same boat as the afro haired gunner so many things happened to him under short notice. It seemed like a moment ago he was at Bodhum doing one of his usual travels before he ended up in the Purge train, all the way to the Vestige, to Lake Bresha and now this location. He could still go on he wasn't feeling tire yet however he didn't know about the others yet he expected someone young like Hope would be in his limit after experiencing so much, Vanille was another story since she was older but he was still concern if she can go on without stopping. He did kept in mind that they weren't safe they were still been hunted down by PSICOM and they could find their location any moment.

Vanille was feeling tired they have been traveling for a while in different locations she wouldn't mind a nice rest to get some energy back. She could still fight no problem but her feet were killing here from all the walking and knowing that they weren't safe yet because they were still been hunted down, she knew staying for too long in one place was a bad idea. Five minutes of rest wouldn't hurt that was all she was asking, surely their pursuers won't find them in that time.

Hope was tired and there was nothing wrong with that it was the first time he has experienced something like this. It's not every day he loses his mother in a accident with PSICOM decides to try and take out his hatred on the murderer following him to the Vestige, get marked as an l'Cie becoming the enemy of Cocoon been forced to be hunted down like a dangerous criminal and now he was stranded in some unknown place he was unfamiliar with because he has never been here before. Worst of all he was outside of Cocoon with no possibilities of making it back to his home, like it would mattered now that his fate has been sealed with the brand mark. He also reminded himself that Snow was no longer traveling with them, making him feel a little frustrated.

"Time to head out" Lightning said.

Sazh who had seated on the ground was taken back by her comment" what no break?"

"We're been hunted" she replied.

"I concur PSICOM must have pin pointed our location when we crashed, they have probably send units to scout by now we're not safe here" replied Seiryu.

Hope sighed" then I guess we're leaving…."

Sazh sighed looking at the former soldier looking eagerly to leave" look we're not like you, you're a soldier you have so much stamina than any of us."

"Yet your mouth has enough stamina to run it and whine" countered Lightning with a frown.

"She is right though" Seiryu felt amused by her comment.

"You know what never mind…."

The former Guardian corps sergeant was already gone leaving the crash site if they wanted to catch a break then she will let them, she didn't care if they get caught by PSICOM. The only thing that mattered to her was her objective nothing else she will always focus on one thing and she wouldn't stop until she fulfills it.

The blind drifter was already aware of the pink haired soldier's absence" we should get going…."

"I could use a short rest" Vanille said getting seated on the ground joining the afro haired pilot.

"I know your tire but we can't stay here" said the drifter.

"Tell you what why don't you guys go on ahead with happy girl and we'll catch up with you guys shortly?" said Sazh.

Although he was obviously joking or trying to light up the mood Seiryu didn't liked the way he called Lightning "happy girl" it was obviously in a sarcastic matter. She was the way she is for various reasons and although he didn't know what they were he thought they were solid reasons for her behavior.

He nodded looking at the silver haired teen" let's go Hope…."

The young l'Cie nodded as they left the crash site leaving Sazh and Vanille behind even if it wasn't a good idea knowing that PSICOM doesn't waste time when it comes to capturing Purge survivors , they hoped they did catch up to them and soon.

"Do you know where we are?" the silver haired teen looked around not liking the place a bit.

Seiryu got on one knee touching the surface" from the smell of the air and the texture of the ground we must be in the Cocoon dead lands also known as the Vile Peaks."

"Dead lands….?" Hope had to gulp at the name.

"Don't stall behind it's only a name used because this region is abandoned like the Hanging Edge."

"Although this place is not secure it must be crawling with unwanted guests namely PSICOM."

They continued walking ahead it took them to walked three blocks away from the crash site when they spotted the familiar figure of Lightning walking with no intention of ever stopping. Both felt relief that it didn't took them too long to catch up with her they can continue the journey without worrying too much, with a third member in their group they won't have to worry if they encounter company. However it didn't meant that the drifter wasn't worry for Sazh and Vanille's safety because they decided to stay behind, he hoped that they have left already.

The pink haired soldier stopped walking when she noticed someone behind her she recognized Hope not noticing Seiryu next to him" just you?"

"I'm tagging along too" replied the blind drifter.

She nodded she was relief to see the blind drifter but didn't showed it.

"For now I guess it's just the two of us, should we wait for the others?" asked Hope.

"They'll catch up eventually…."

She resumed walking ahead while the two boys followed her. Hope was gazing around the place at the junkyard place the entire place really looked like crap or someone's nightmare to spend a vacation, now he understood why Seiryu said that this place was Cocoon's dead lands. It was like a dessert filled with scrap garbage that was not necessary just useless no wonder anyone would come here, he already didn't like the place. He gazed at the drifter who was walking without saying a word it didn't bothered him the place they were, but then again he was blind so there was nothing for him to see at all. He looked ahead at Lightning who reached a corner only to see her drawing her gun blade, an encounter obviously.

"Hope let's go" Seiryu was the one that sensed a fight as the teen followed him.

The first thing the pink haired soldier did encountering the monster is cast Libra on it looking over the green colored creature that resembles a Pantheron but it wasn't one. She saw its weakness which was ice and lightning she quickly went to cast some magic she cast blizzard and lightning hitting the creature growling in fury. She was surprised that it wasn't defeated with those spells so she cast more before it was going to charge at her, Hope stopped using blizzard and fire while Seiryu slashed it with his sword. It was hurt but it was still standing Lightning took the opportunity and used Blitz, the creature looked like it was staggered giving the perfect opportunity for the group to finish it. Hope used blizzard as both Lightning and Seiryu slash it with their weapons finally killing it.

"That monster was tough even with all of the attacks we used it was still getting up" said Hope.

"Thexteron it's weak against ice and lightning element, it needs to be kill quickly because it can cast bravery" replied Lightning saying the information she got using Libra.

"It seems that the more we travel the more we're bound to meet stronger enemies" said the drifter.

"It will be too easy if it wasn't that way" added the pink haired soldier.

Since it was a dead end on the corner they took they went back to the way they came heading straight in the path ahead, they already had company waiting for them. They meet two Pantherons and one Thexteron it only took one swung from Seiryu's sword to kill the two weak monsters while Lightning and Hope confronted the Thexteron, the teen used blizzard while the former soldier used both blizzard and lightning. The green creature was hit but it was able to cast bravery on itself increasing its physical strength Lightning charged at it using Blitz followed by back flip changing her blade to a gun firing a round, the Thexteron was still standing. The creature went straight at Hope about to use its claw but it was hit by blizzard and lightning thanks to the pink haired soldier, the silver haired followed by using blizzard. However the blind drifter managed to land the killing blow using Ruin he gave a smile at the teen so far he was doing a good job fighting.

"Not bad Hope…."

"Thanks…."

But that's not what the former sergeant of the Guardian corps thought as she went to the young l'Cie giving him a serious expression that would make anyone run for their money.

"What's wrong Lightning?" asked the nervous Hope.

"You….don't get in my way again."

"What….?"

"I had it where I wanted it you were interfering."

"I believe that is not called interfering but aiding you in battle" Seiryu said correcting her mistake.

"Hmph" she turned her back and resume walking.

The silver haired teen lowered his head feeling bad with himself he thought he was a nuisance getting in the way, nothing but a burden even with powers as an l'Cie" she probably hates me now…."

He felt a hand on his shoulder looking at the dark haired swordsman" Seiryu….?"

"Don't feel discourage you did well for your first battles."

"Too bad that's not what she thinks" he sighed referring to Lightning.

"She will come around eventually" the blind drifter thought this was going to be a long journey and she might change her ways if she continues to travel with the group.

"Hopefully she will…."

They continued following her while Lightning has heard the drifter from the distance she had to snort mentally at that, she didn't needed them this was her mission no one else's. But deep inside of her there was a big fear in her heart maybe because she didn't wanted to get close to anyone that wasn't her listen, she refuse to let anyone in the had no right so why she should. The sooner she leave this place then maybe she can find a way to lose them, although she could use Seiryu's skills to her advantage in future battle it was going to get tougher she knew that.

"All this garbage was taken from Pulse?" asked Hope.

"That's what they say they took parts from Pulsian territory to try and fix this part of Cocoon's outer shell, although they did a lousy job" said Seiryu.

"So this stuff what was left over from the scrap the Fal'Cie took from Pulse to repair Cocoon?"

"That is correct they couldn't choose materials from their own world so instead they choose materials from Pulse to repair this place. However taking things from the lower world they so called feared and despise doesn't seem right, I find it hypocrisy from the Fal'Cie's part."

The silver haired teen was really taken by his comment as he was in thought for a moment" I guess….when you put it that way it doesn't sound right."

"It is not if they hate Pulse why bothered taking things from said world to try and repair this place and doing in it completely wrong, with Cocoon's advance technology they should be able to turn the Vile Peaks into a paradise like their city."

"Well this place has been abandoned just like the Hanging Edge years ago during the war of transgression, so I guess they won't bother repairing it too greatly because it's not populated there's no reason to try hard in repairing something where there is no civilization. Not unless if they want to build a paradise for the monsters that live here" Hope chuckled at his small joke.

"That will be good for them but not for the Fal'Cie that option is out of the question" the drifter managed to give a small smile in amusement."

"What's important to the Fal'Cie is the heart of Cocoon where it's people resides" said the young l'Cie.

"Precisely anything outside of the heart of the city is expendable that's why they won't concentrate on repairing places without putting much effort that has to do with Cocoon's outer shell."

They continued walking while Lightning has heard everything from their conversation even if she was walking ahead of them, the information revealed by Seiryu was correct. He was right about everything Cocoon's outer shell to the Sanctum and the Fal'Cie was useless to them, people from these regions left after the war of transgression centuries ago and the only thing left outside of the heart of the city was a ghost town or a pile of pure scrap. She actually like the way the blind drifter thinks pure common sense with a sense of realism he was obviously the kind of person who didn't seem to follow the Fal'Cie's law, she added mentally that she will keep an eye on him just in case.

They group followed the pink haired soldier who jumped to the edge of a rusted tower to reach the other side of the path, both jumped with no problem deciding to increase their speed because she was getting further away. Reaching the other side of the small cliff they followed the former soldier straight ahead, jumping another obstacle they saw her taking her weapon because they were facing three watchdrones. They already knew about the drone from the one they fought back at Lake Bresha they are fast and they can cause a lot of lightning damage, luckily they knew its elemental weakness. This time they were going to fight three of them they were equal in numbers.

"Let's back her up" Seiryu sheathed his sword while Hope nodded taking his boomerang.

Lightning faced one of the watchdrones using water followed by lightning, she then used her gun blade to slash the drone it was already staggered. Seiryu used ruin followed by a strong slash killing the mechanic unit already. Hope used lightning twice hitting the drone but it wasn't beaten, he followed by another lightning spell but it was still coming to him. He gasped the watchdrone was about use its electro kick attack before Seiryu has jumped in front of him ready to defend him.

"Seiryu look out!" he suddenly cast a spell making an invisible shield around the drifter.

The lightning attack hit him but he wasn't faze that much as he used his sword to slash cutting in it in half, by now Lightning has already defeated her watchdrone opponent as she has witnessed what just happened.

"He used protect…."

"You okay Seiryu?" asked the silver haired teen.

"I am thanks to you….you just cast protect on me."

"What?"

"Protect increases a target's physical resistance" Lightning said walking to the duo.

"I didn't know you could use enhance spells as well" said the blind drifter.

"I didn't know either but lately I have been feeling a little stronger, ever since we fought at Lake Bresha I wonder if it has something to do with that…."

"Perhaps if this is another ability for being an l'Cie learning new techniques and magic while fighting" said Seiryu.

"I do feel stronger every time we fight maybe that's it."

"So the more we fight in battle the stronger we become, it does sound promising" the dark haired swordsman was in thought.

"What about you Lightning do you feel like you're getting stronger" asked Hope.

The pink haired soldier sheathed her gun blade back to her hostler" I always feel strong…."

She starting walking ahead again, leaving the group in thought before shortly they chose to follow her resuming their journey the teen was thinking about what happened earlier with the Thexteron incident. He remembered the look on her face she was deadly serious her sky blue eyes were cold like it was pure ice and her tone was even colder, it really scared him.

"You….don't get in my way again."

"I don't want to anger her again maybe I should do what she said…."

"Something on your mind?" asked Seiryu sensing he was troubled about something.

"I….."

"It's all right Hope you can tell me."

"I don't want to make Lightning angry at me I don't want to get in her way again while we're fighting."

"You weren't getting in her way she was wrong, you were simply aiding her in battle. There is a difference between getting in the way of someone and helping a comrade in a fight."

"That's not what she thinks…."

"Lightning sees things her way she's a warrior, a warrior only focuses on his mission or goal nothing else to her there is no time to be waiting around doing nothing or having comrades. She believes she can do things on her own without the help of others, she's very independent. That's why she thinks that having people helping her will only slow her down or make her weak."

Hope was shocked at everything he has heard from the blind drifter he was able to describe Lightning's personality in just a few sentences. Hearing this made him understand her a little now he knew why she acted the way she is, he smile happy that the dark haired swordsman has help him by giving him this information.

"Thanks Seiryu I feel a lot better. Do you think Lightning will start trusting us?"

"I'm afraid that's a difficult question to answer it all depends if she's willing to give us a chance, everything it's up to her it seems…."

The silver haired teen nodded thinking if the former soldier was willing to trust in them and see that she doesn't have to do things on her own, she can still do things if she had allies by her side. They continued on the path jumping a small ledge where they saw Lightning who by now has stopped in her tracks, both spotted far ahead two Watchdrones and one Thexteron unaware of their presences for now.

Lightning stood still she wasn't thinking about a battle plan to fight the enemies ahead but rather she was in deep thought at what she just heard. Her eyes were wide as she heard everything Seiryu has said regarding her she was shocked all right she couldn't believe that someone that she barely knows knew so much about, it's like he has known her for years. She has only know him for hours and he knew her so well that it actually scared her, the only thing she knew regarding him is that he's very strong, he's blind and his name that was all. She finally noticed that the two, l'Cie were behind her finally caught up to her.

Hope suddenly got a bad feeling at the way the former soldier was all still, because there were enemies ahead that haven't spotted them yet and she hasn't move an inch to fight them that wasn't her at all" did she heard us talking but she was further than us and we weren't speaking too loud?"

"Is something the matter Lightning?" asked Seiryu.

"No it's nothing" she finally proceeded walking taking her Blaze fire saber ready to fight again.

The drifter unsheathed his sword" Lightning let's change opponents and let me handle the Thexteron."

She only nodded staring at one of the Watchdrones while Hope took his boomerang, he was staring at her but he looked back at their enemies" I won't get in your way…."

"Just finish your opponent this time" she replied as they charged at the trio taking them by surprise.

Seiryu made a quick strong slash hitting the green creature staggering it already he followed with Ruin, it was almost finish. Hope used lightning three times staggering his Watchdrone, he used another destroying it. Lightning has destroyed her watchdrone before it even got the chance to noticed that there were enemies among them, the blind drifter has also finished his opponent the surprise has given them one easy victory. No words were said Hope gazed at Lightning who didn't replied or looked at him for the matter she resumed her walking, while the drifter on the other hand smiled at him.

"Good job."

He nodded with a smile they followed the pink haired soldier jumping another ledge they already spotted another enemy which looked like a really old mech. The silver haired teen reacted as he quickly concentrated performing the technique Libra on the mech since they have never seen it before, he succeeded staring at the newly information he has just received.

"It's called a Pulsework soldier its weak against lightning element, has a high physical and magic resistance and delivers strong physical attacks and it can alter its form."

"You finally used Libra not bad Hope" said Seiryu.

"We'll use lightning on it to weaken its defenses and stagger it rapidly" replied Lightning.

They started walking they will be lucky if they caught it by surprise but it was futile, the Pulsework soldier has spotted heading straight at them.

"Here it comes" said the blind drifter.

The first thing the young l'Cie did before they fight started was to cast protect on everyone. Seiryu was hit by the invisible shield, followed by the pink haired soldier and lastly himself. The drifter smiled at his quick thinking to raise their physical defense against an opponent that has high physical strength. Lightning was quick using lighting three times hitting the Pulse mech but it didn't looked like it was damage they already knew of its high physical and magic resistance from the information they got from Hope. The silver haired teen used lightning three times joining the former soldier in the assault while the blind drifter chose to use Ruin slowly it was getting highly damage. The Pulsework soldier went at the dark haired swordsman using its only long mechanical arm to attack him, but he was quick blocking it with his sword he countered slashing the long arm off.

With the combination of the attacks the Pulse mech was staggered and it became helpless stood frozen while releasing some strange energy from the inside of its body. It was their chance to attack it and finish it Hope resumed hitting it with lightning while Seiryu and Lightning attack it together both slash it with their weapons. The pink haired soldier used Blitz while changing her weapons and firing a couple of rounds, it was followed cut in half by the blind drifter. The combination of their effort managed to defeat the Pulsework soldier, teamwork has won again.

They sheathed their weapons back continuing their journey heading the path ahead, they reached a large rocky wall that it looked impossible to climb and dangerous. Lightning was checking for any way out while Seiryu remained quiet, she went back to the group staring at immense rocky wall.

"Dead end looks like we will have to go back….I don't see any way over that" said Hope.

"Perhaps you're right" added the blind drifter.

The pink haired soldier walked towards the wall inspecting its height while the silver haired teen was panting trying to catch his breath he was tire, he got seated on a nearby rock.

"Can we get through this way you think, you do know where you're going?" asked the teen.

"I've been here on missions before."

"Missions….?" Hope said aloud while Seiryu had an idea what he might ask" nothing to do with the Purge though?"

She turned back to the teen" the Purge is PSICOM's baby."

"Lightning is part of the Guardian corps they have nothing to do with PSICOM" replied Seiryu.

The pink haired soldier nodded" our military is split in two arms. The Public Security and Intelligence Command known as PSICOM and the Guardian Corps I was Guardian Corps from the Bodhum Security Regiment."

Hope got up from the rock" wait, but I don't get it if you're not PSICOM then why did you board the Purge train?"

"Obviously to save her sister" the drifter answered for the silver haired teen.

She nodded again" for Serah…."

"Serah?" the teen's eyes widened recognizing the name" that girl that got crystallized she was your sister?"

Lightning lowered her head hearing the "was" while Seiryu shook his head like he has said the wrong thing.

The young l'Cie knew his mistake quickly" I….I mean is."

"Might as well face it being crystallized is the same thing as been dead."

"That's not true she can still be safe" said the blind drifter.

"I wish that was true" she didn't know if there was a way to save her sister since the last attempt to save her failed and it ended turning her and the rest of the group into l'Cie.

"I volunteered to be Purge in order to save Serah before they move the Vestige to Pulse and out of my reach, joining the Purge was my only chance to save her. I knew the moment I volunteered to be purged was the day I was no longer among the Guardian Corps and I didn't care…."

"You're telling me the only reason you got on that train was to save your sister that's crazy I could never do that?"

"It's not a question of can or can't there are some things in life you just do."

"Easy for someone like you to say…."

"Tell me Hope do you have a brother or sister?" asked Seiryu.

"No I'm an only child."

"Then you can't understand the strength of the bond that siblings share, brotherly love is a powerful thing especially when your sibling is the only family you have left" the drifter lowered his head slightly.

Lightning lowered her head too hearing that brought her memories, painful memories. Memories she would wish to erase or completely forget about them like they never existed, the death of her parents and been the only person to take care of Serah. For a moment she gazed at Seiryu his tone was of sorrow and pain, maybe he has experienced the same thing too. Serah was her only family left her only precious person to protect and cherish, she erased the thoughts getting back to the task at hand as she started climbing the rocky wall.

"Wait you're climbing that wall?" asked the shocked Hope.

"If it is as high as I think it is it will take us time and energy to climb it, we have used some energy while we were fighting. I suggest we take a short rest before attempting to climb it" replied Seiryu.

"You do that then, I'm going on ahead" said the pink haired soldier.

"Climbing it after fighting sounds a bit reckless…."

She looked at him and couldn't help but give a small grin" says the one who came up with the reckless plan to defeat the Garuda Interceptor."

He chuckled she really got him there" touché."

"But you can't leave us here!" said the silver haired teen.

The former soldier didn't replied as she climbed the large wall while jumping a couple of stones, impressively she was already on top, before she took one last glance at the two people below her namely Seiryu. She finally left heading out going back to what she had in mind, back to her goal or her task.

"She left us" Hope said giving a sigh.

"We will have to find another route to catch up to her."

"You said that we should rest before climbing that wall, I could use that right now" he went back to sit on the rock.

"We will need it if PSICOM units are here so far we haven't encountered any of them, but one could never know…."

The young l'Cie got seated hugging his knees burying his head on his knees trying to enjoy the rest but he couldn't, not after everything that has happened. His thoughts we're once again on his mother he agreed with her that it will be great to have a small vacation at the sea side city of Bodhum and looked how it turned out, because of the Pulse Fal'Cie found at the Vestige he and his mother were selected to be purged. His eyes hardened in anger because they boarded the Purge train they ended up meeting Snow and his gang and Nora died, he could still remembered that horrible memory as it was still been replaced in his mind over and over again. Before he realized it he was in tears missing his mother and after he became an l'Cie he needed her the most, how much he missed her.

"Not making a wish Hope?"

"Mom….you still believe in that kind of stuff wishing on fireworks really that's for kids?"

"Who are you calling a kid?"

"You what did you wished for?"

"That next year your father would come with us."

He got angry hearing that" why it's better like this we don't need him?"

"Mom….?"

He felt a hand on his shoulders he gazed at the blind drifter" is there something bothering you don't hesitate to ask, perhaps there's something I can do to help."

"I'm fine…."

"You're in tears something must be bothering you, a painful memory or a sweet one perhaps?"

"I was just thinking about…."

"Your mother….?"

The youth nodded" I really missed her."

"Right now you will have to be strong for her sake you can't give up now."

"That's all I feel that maybe I should just quit that this is all pointless…."

"Hope I didn't got the chance to know Nora very well, just for an hour or so but that was enough to know what kind of person she was. She loved you very much and she wanted you to continue living she believed in you, it's natural for a mother to have faith in her son right?"

"I guess but what can I do now that she's not here I don't think I can go on without her?"

"Do you seriously think she will want you to give up on life?"

"I…."

"She didn't seem to be that kind of person to me, Nora probably wanted you to live your life freely without having any regrets of it. I do know that she did a good job in raising a fine son."

The teen dried his tears" but I'm an l'Cie now….?"

"All the better reason for you to try hard and live through this to continue with your life, this may be a test of fate for you that you will have to overcome eventually."

"Can I live a life as a fugitive?"

"For now we will have to stick together and try to escape until we can come up with something, remember that you're not alone."

He nodded with a smile" thanks Seiryu I promise I will try my best."

"So far you're doing a good job" the drifter finished with a smile.

"That's why I have to get strong so I can face Snow he won't get away with what he did to mom…."

"Well I believe we have had plenty of rest how about if we go back to find another route, surely Lightning is already way ahead than us by now?"

"You're right let's go then."

That moment the dark haired swordsman's ears perked hearing footsteps" we have company…."

"What?" Hope gasped what if there were monsters or maybe PSICOM have already found them again.

He smiled" it's all right the company is friendly."

"Hey Seiryu Hope!"

The silver haired teen turned to see Vanille and Sazh heading their way both were happy to be reunited with their new found friends. Seiryu and Hope were feeling the same way too just when they needed more companions to help them in their journey and namely to catch up to Lightning, the more people they had in the group the better. Both were panting looks like they were having their chase or maybe a few battles with the monsters of the area.

"We made it!" Vanille gave a sigh of relief.

Sazh immediately noticed the pink haired soldier was missing" hey where's grumpy?"

Seiryu frowned hearing that he didn't like it when people disrespected others without a valid reason" her name is Lightning."

"Come on I'm just lighten up you have to agree with me with the way she's always acting."

"Perhaps you should try to put yourself in her shoes and try to understand her reason to be the way she is."

"I can't I have no idea and you know?"

The blind drifter shook his head" but this gives us a more good reason not to disrespect her…."

"I was just kidding man don't take me so seriously."

"At any rate I'm glad that you managed to catch up with us."

"Lightning has already gone ahead" Hope replied.

"I'm afraid she left us behind" said Seiryu.

"Like I didn't see that coming" said the afro haired gunner.

"But at least we made it time" Vanille said in her cheery tone.

"So anyway kid I'm sure you would want to go home?" said Sazh.

The young l'Cie's eyes softened" I don't have a home now that mom is-"

"But what about your dad?" asked the red haired girl.

"He could care less about me."

"Don't say that I'm sure he must be worry about you."

"Let him worry I don't care why should he?"

"Any father cares" Sazh muttered Seiryu was the only one who heard him.

"What Sazh?" Vanille said.

"It's nothing forget it…."

"Let's leave things like this for now we have bigger things to worry about like finding Lightning and PSICOM" Seiryu said.

The afro haired pilot nodded as he noticed a control lever ahead next to large rock wall while Vanille hold Hope like a concerned older sister over her little brother. He took a long at the device and it seemed to be operational it was a surprise that it did since it has been many years that anyone has been here, one would expect that any machine in the Vile Peaks would rust and stop working after the war of transgression.

"This ought do it" he pulled the lever.

The machine pulled a core connecting with another wall and it pulled towards its location allowing to open the wall, it revealed a new path crossing the rocky wall by a stairs of rocks. The group was surprised at the sight namely Seiryu.

"So there was an easier way to cross the wall instead of climbing it, it seems Lightning took the hard way."

"We got time, we'll get you back home your dad will be happy to see you" said Sazh looking at the teen.

They started walking jumping through the rock stairs formation it didn't take them that long to make it to the top. As soon as they landed to the top the first thing they saw was another Pulsework soldier walking behind them the group didn't waste any time taking the chance to take him by surprise, the trio took their weapons ready to fight him the Pulsian mech. Sazh and Vanille have already fought it before so they were also aware of its elemental weakness and its high magic and physical defense. There was no need to play defensive since they have caught it off guard, they went for the offensive.

Seiryu has charged at it with a slash damaging it a lot while the trio went to a magic offensive. Hope used lightning while Sazh and Vanille used aero for a quick stagger the Pulsework soldier was outmatch and outnumbered it didn't stood a chance. The blind drifter joined in the assault using ruin that was all it took to defeat the mech, the battle was over and they sheathed their weapons back resuming the journey. They reached the end where there was a door and a small ledge next to it to their surprise the door opened, revealing another Pulsework soldier only this time this one spotted them.

Sazh sighed taking his pistols" here we go again."

"It will be too easy if we didn't have to fight" Seiryu said taking his sword again.

"That's for sure" added Hope.

"Watch out here it comes!" Vanille said with her biding rod in hand.

They went with the defensive Hope cast protect on Seiryu and himself and surprisingly Sazh did the same thing on himself and Vanille. The red haired girl casted deprotect and deshell on it lowering its physical and magical defense, it was exactly what they needed to gain a huge advantage over it. Seiryu used ruin followed by a slash, while Hope used lightning, Vanille used fire and Sazh used aero sadly for the Pulsian mech it was already defeated with those attacks. Deprotect and deshell did their work as their magic was stronger and the drifter's attacks thanks to those debuffs spells, they were glad it's over putting their weapons back in their proper hostlers.

"Sazh I didn't know you could use enhance spells" said the blind drifter.

"I didn't that happened while we we're looking for you and Hope."

"We forgot to tell you about that, Sazh can use spells like protect and bravery and I can use spells like deprotect and deshell" replied Vanille.

"So you can use debuff magic that will be very usable for our journey" said the dark haired swordsman.

"Seiryu has a theory that the more we fight the stronger we will become, I can also use enhance spells too" said Hope.

"Well you were the one that brought the getting stronger part so you contributed on the theory as well" smiled Seiryu.

"That really makes sense" replied the afro haired gunner.

"That theory is true its part of the strength development of being an l'Cie fighting more enemies means power development as well as unlocking new abilities and magic spells, fighting stronger enemies' results in rapid grown development" said the red haired girl.

"It is also the reason why the Fal'Cie from Cocoon used them a lot during the war of transgression" she added mentally.

"Let's get going our fights will become easy with Vanille's debuff spells" said the drifter.

"Hey what about me I can cast bravery which increases physical strength?" whined Sazh while chocobo chick left his afro.

"You too Sazh" smirked Seiryu while Hope and Vanille laughed.

They jumped the small ledge walking ahead where Seiryu sensed presence from above them, in two rusted bars. He has sheathed his sword knowing they were engaging combat again the two creatures fell on them revealing to be looking bird creatures, they seemed to be dancing. The blind drifter didn't waste time casting Libra on them revealing their information known as succubus, their elemental weakness was lightning and water and they have the ability to bestow bravery and cause deprotect.

Hope cast protect on everyone while Sazh cast bravery on the group, Vanille use her new found magic in the debuffing system as she casted deprotect and deshell on both bird like creatures. The succubus has picked their target which turned out to be Hope as they used their mighty kicks hitting the poor teen, the action made the red haired girl to use cure. Sazh and Seiryu attacked the two dancing creatures, the afro haired gunner used aero while the drifter used ruin. Both enemies got hurt but they were still going for the attack on Hope only this time he was ready for them, he used lightning while Vanille used fire. Sazh added more aero and Seiryu used a strong slash with his sword killing one of them.

The last succubus ignored that it was outnumbered and in a disadvantage since both its elemental and physical resistance has been decreased thanks to Vanille's debuff spells. The four party members attacked it at the same time, Sazh used aero, Vanille used fire, Hope used lightning and Seiryu used ruin. In no time the bird like dancing creature was beaten joining the second succubus in death, they sighed in relief putting their weapons back continuing the journey. Stepping on another short ledge of the junkyard like area the group stopped for a moment as they spotted something in the distance, it looked broken and it was stuck on the ground like it has crash landed it also looked very old.

Vanille was somehow taken back by the sight" isn't that a-"

"A warship from Pulse" Sazh finished for the l'Cie girl.

"You, mean they made it this far?" asked Vanille.

"I believe they did, during the war of transgression" Seiryu said while Hope nodded.

"This is as far as they have gone since then they managed to ripped Cocoon's outer shell when they invaded. They might have tried but none of their forces made it into Cocoon the Sanctum's Fal'Cie pushed them back, what did you sleep through history class?" said the afro haired pilot looking at the red haired girl.

"More or less, so what's a ship from Pulse doing here?" said the l'Cie girl.

"Once the war was over, people couldn't live near the rim anymore in places like the Hanging Edge" Hope said.

"Hope and I have already discussed this while traveling with Lightning. The Fal'Cie used left over parts of the war from Pulse to try and rebuild this area, of course with becoming an abandoned area there was no need to rebuild it so flawlessly" replied the blind drifter.

"You're telling me son and who knows what other things are mixed with all these garbage…." Sazh was gazing at the place that looked like a trash can full of scrap.

Vanille was in deep thought while Seiryu had his attention on her" the Pulsework soldier is probably an example of things mixed with the scrap."

"I just hope it's only that I wouldn't want to face other things that could be stronger or bigger" said the afro haired gunner.

Suddenly Vanille went to her cheery mood passing the group" I'm gonna go peek ahead."

"Wait up Vanille!" Hope said trying to catch up to her.

"Do me a favor stop wandering off and stay where I can keep my eye on you? whined Sazh.

Seiryu shook his head following the wandering group" we're suppose to stay together to prevent any ambushes from monsters, we will lose the advantage of numbers if we get separated."

They headed to another small ledge where the area was a deformed circle but there was a path straight ahead, they only needed to head there. However there were two succubus more and by now the group had catch up knowing they couldn't fight these things on their own. They have taken their weapons again engaging them in battle once more following the same strategy they did last time Hope casting protect, Sazh casting bravery, Vanille casting deprotect and deshell while Seiryu used ruin. The dancing bird creature's choice of target was none other than Sazh as they charged at him using their fast movement to kick him. Hope was quick performing cure on the afro haired gunner while Vanille went into the offensive using fire and the drifter slash the girl's target killing it, it wasn't long before both Sazh and Hope joined in to defeat the remaining succubus.

The battle was done and the party returned to move on while Vanille was keeping an eye on Sazh, he was acting a bit weird. He was attacked by the succubus but Hope managed to heal him with cure so he should be fine, at least that's she believed. The afro haired pilot was rubbing where he got kicked if it wasn't for being an l'Cie he would have been seriously hurt, that and casting magic was probably the only things he liked about being one. Walking to another mechanical door as soon they got neared it opened revealing a Pulsework soldier Seiryu have sensed a succubus above them it was standing on another rusted pillar. The drifter took his sword they had their hands full because Pulsian mech had a higher defense and the addition of the succubus make them a strong duo.

"Everyone let me handle the Pulsework soldier you guys handle the succubus."

They nodded taking their weapons performing the same strategy with Hope casting protect, Sazh casting bravery and Vanille using deprotect and deshell on the two opponents. The succubus started doing some weird dance that was able to cast deprotect on Hope as they went on with their magic assault using lightning, fire and aero. Seiryu had slash the Pulsework soldier damaging it although the attacks were strong it wasn't enough to stagger it, he sensed that his companions were almost done with the succubus before he was done with the mech. He easily dodged the incoming attack of the Pulsian mech with its only arm using a couple of slash that it was enough to rip its only arm, by now the others were done with the succubus. Hope has received a couple of hits from the dancing bird creature the trio decided to join the blind drifter defeating the Pulsework soldier combining their strength they beaten it with no problem.

They sighed in relief happy to have won another battle walking ahead reaching a couple of rocks in stairs formation jumping it with no problem the group met another Pulsework soldier and a succubus standing on another rusted pole. They removed their weapons again going with the same strategy that has been helping them a lot, it has become their usual routine in battle. There was one thing different about the duo they have decided to attack a new opponent Hope had used lightning spotting the two succubus heading his way. He took his distance before he tried to run to escape their assault but it was futile, they were faster. But he was about to get kick by the two dancing bird creatures Seiryu has jumped in taking the attacks that were supposed to be meant to him, shocking the silver haired teen along with the group.

"Seiryu!" Hope shouted.

"You all right Hope?" he replied between breaths.

He only nodded as Vanille and Sazh went for the attack on the two succubus one of them started doing its dance to cast deprotect. With their combined efforts the trio defeated the two succubus thanks both enemies had debuffs spells on them. Hope was already healing any injuries that the drifter received because of them, using cure. He felt bad with himself to think that he was strong now and he had to be protected by someone else, he had a tinge of guilt in him. Because of him Seiryu got hurt he felt like he has got in the way again like what happened earlier when he was aiding Lightning, maybe he was useless after all.

"Seiryu are you all right?" the teen casted cure on him.

"I'm fine their attacks didn't affect me much, we have to be careful those succubus are fast."

"Can you move?" asked Vanille.

"Please don't concern yourself with me I said I'm fine."

"You have to be careful just because we're l'Cie it doesn't mean we can get hurt as much as we want without getting seriously wounded" Sazh replied.

"I'm well aware let's keep going."

"Seiryu I….thanks for saving me" replied the youth.

"Don't mention it."

---

(Time skip)

After a couple of more fights which they were a little tougher the party has advance through half of the Vile Peaks. They had fought two succubus with a Pulsework soldier, two Pulsework soldiers and two more Succubus they were able to win due that they were slowly becoming stronger with each fight they won. Most of them were hoping to find a way out of the junkyard place in order to get to a safety location that wasn't populated by monsters, any place where they will be safe from PSICOM. They crossed a short stair case reaching a wide platform walking ahead, before the drifter's ears perked up sensing someone.

He smiled recognizing the presence" glad you could join us again Lightning."

The trio was surprised hearing that before the pink haired soldier landed on the ground she wasn't surprised that the blind drifter has found her but not the others. She wasn't happy due that she hasn't found the exit out of here even with her knowledge of the area when she has done missions before when she was with the Guardian Corps. She was annoyed and upset not in a happy mood to have people around her she wanted to do this alone, it bothered her why to have other people involved in this. They would only slow her down, get in her way although not everyone within the group Seiryu will be useful depending if he was willing to help her she wasn't going to oblige him in the matter.

Sazh smiled seeing her" hey, welcome to the party."

"You miss us?" Vanille added smiling.

The former soldier didn't reply she walked passing by them it was the obvious reaction coming from someone like her, not the talkative and happy mood type.

The afro haired gunner sighed" would it kill her to smile?"

Seiryu frowned not liking his comment he thought it was rude" her younger sister was turned into an l'Cie becoming a crystal for fulfilling her focus, now we have been marked as l'Cie too, our focus is probably the destruction of Cocoon, in addition that the Sanctum is hunting us and you want her to smile?"

"Easy man I didn't meant anything personal just trying to light the mood."

"Please reconsider your way of thinking Sazh with everything that has happened, there's nothing to be smiling about. Most of us have lost precious people smiling is the last thing in their minds."

Hope lowered his head knowing what he was talking he was referring to himself because he lost his mother as well as Lightning losing her sister Serah. The pink soldier stopped walking when she heard the first part of Seiryu's speech in deep thought and once again he was right, there was nothing to be smiling with everything that has happened and their current situation. She felt grateful at the way he defended her but she didn't show it, at least someone understood what she was going through even if it wasn't completely true.

"I'm sorry" he lowered his head.

"Don't feel bad you're a good friend Sazh but please try to understand that not all of us have your care free way of life attitude."

"You will be surprised" the afro haired pilot muttered.

"Pardon me?"

"It's nothing…."

"Sazh….?" Vanille gazed at him worried.

"I's okay I'm not angry at you Sazh" Hope said giving a smile to the older man.

They group resumed their walking Lightning didn't said a word but she started walking with the group, obviously she was going to accompany them since she wasn't getting anywhere doing things alone. She wouldn't admit because of her stubbornness and pride but if she wanted to leave the scrap area she needed to a group to get through this, this time she didn't walked ahead like she was usually doing. They met more monsters to fight the usual succubus, incubus which they have fought before with the ability to cast deprotect using its heretic dance ability and of course the Pulsework soldier. With five members in the party the enemies were outnumbered completely giving them the advantage along with the advantage of strength, along with their ability to develop in strength with the more battles they fought.

Their battles have become easier however something strange has happened, to a certain pink haired soldier. It was weird that Lightning has chosen to walk with the group instead of doing her usual walking ahead in order to keep her distance from them act, but this time it was different. For some reason she has decided to walk next to Seiryu it was no surprise due that she has ignored the fact that he has saved her life three times, describing her personality like he has known her for years and that he has defended her way of being so serious and stoic with others. She kept staring at the road ahead while she secretly stole a small gaze at him, he wouldn't notice because he was blind at least that's what she thought.

"Something on your mind Lightning?" asked the drifter taking her by surprise.

"It's nothing…."

The rest of the group was confused just like the blind drifter but they pay no attention to it, focusing again on their journey to leave the Vile Peaks. Taking a turn in a one way road that it seemed to be endless the group finally reached a wide area of the junkyard like place. In the middle of the area stood a large pile of scrap nothing new for such place that it was filled with junk, taking a couple of steps getting closer to the mountain of trash. Seiryu however stood in thought as he felt something not right.

"What do you suppose that is?" asked Lightning looking at the pile.

"Everyone let's be careful and let's be on our guard, I have a bad feeling about this" replied the drifter.

The group didn't know why he would say that when they got their answer. From the pile of junk emerged a giant mech but it was different from any kind of mech from Cocoon or anyone that PSICOM or the Sanctum would use. Its technology seemed to be more primitive than the one from Cocoon it was definitely from Pulse, if it has been hiding under the pile of scrap metal.

"What is that?" asked Sazh.

"Pulse armament" the pink haired soldier took her Blaze fire saber.

"So it would seem" Seiryu took his sword while Vanille and Hope had taken their respective weapons ready for the fight.

"And that's bad for us, isn't it?" said the afro haired pilot.

"You have eyes don't you?" the former soldier retorted.

As the battle started Vanille used Libra to check the information on their giant enemy, her expression was taken back by what she was seeing" Dreadnought all elemental damage is normal and physical and magical attacks will be half, it doesn't have a weakness except it can be susceptible to deprotect and deshell."

"The best defense is the best offense" replied Seiryu.

They knew what he was talking Hope casted protect on everyone, Sazh used bravery, Vanille used deprotect and deshell and Lightning and Seiryu chose to use physical attack. The Pulse mech used its large mechanical arms to attack since it was slow the party managed to dodged it the pink haired soldier and the blind drifter both charged at it using their weapons, both slash damaged it. Because it had deprotect thanks to Vanille the damage was increased Sazh used aero, Vanille use fire followed by water and Hope used lightning and ice. Seiryu and Lightning were both using ruin the former soldier changed her strategy to magic as she released fire and lighting to change the variety. The Dreadnought used its arms again which the group dodged again, they were relief its movements were slow and a bit sluggish.

It looked like they had the fight under control for a moment the Pulse mech was getting damage, deprotect and deshell were doing their work too. The group kept dodging its attacks before it used both arms hitting Vanille, the red haired l'Cie managed to use cure on herself healing her injury she joined the group using magic. The party managed to outmatched the Dreadnought with their strength and magic and neither of them looked like they were about to stop, their victory in the fight was probably at hand. The Pulse seemed to have had something in its sleeve as it released a giant iron ball from its chin it started spinning charging energy it was ready to fire it. The giant iron ball was fired destroying the ground beneath the group making them underground, Hope was the only one who didn't fall because of his position.

"I thought we were goners" Sazh said getting up from the fall they experienced.

"Everyone all right?" asked Seiryu.

"I think so" replied Vanille.

"Incoming!" Lightning saw the Dreadnought jumping below getting in front of them.

"Looks like he wants to fight the second round" said the afro haired pilot.

"It seems to have somehow gotten stronger all of the sudden" said the blind drifter.

"Use the same strategy as before" said the pink haired soldier.

"Leave it to me!" Vanille said.

The stronger Dreadnought used its arms only difference now, they were shooting fire the group managed to dodge it. They were in a bit of a disadvantage without Hope they didn't had protect Sazh only cast faith and bravery on everyone, while Vanille cast deprotect and deshells once more on the Pulse mech. Seiryu and Lightning have once again used ruin they quickly charged with their weapons damaging the mech more than usual. Sazh and Vanille we're adding magic damage with aero and fire the mech used its arms with fire as the blind drifter used a couple of quick slashes to damage it while the former soldier used lightning and water. She noticed that the Dreadnought was about to attack the drifter with both arms, she reacted in pure instinct and went to him.

"Move it!" she pushed him aside along with herself.

Seiryu was caught in surprise when he felt her pushing him away saving his life in the moment. Although he sensed the mech about to attack him he felt grateful that Lightning has taken her time to save him, or risk her life in the stunt for the matter. He noticed that she was still next to him with gun blade in her hand she was probably making sure that he was all right and not hurt.

"Thank you Lightning I appreciate it."

"I only did it because of your skills your useful, don't get any ideas" her tone was serious with no feeling.

"Even so I still appreciate it…."

Hope was watching the entire fight from their previous location above, he was the only one who didn't by the mech's strong attack. He couldn't bear to watch his friends and allies in the middle of a fight, especially when he had the strength and the power now to help them in the battle. But he was afraid looking down it looked like a long way down not knowing if he should jump and aid them in the hard fight.

"I don't know if I will be able to survive the fall…."

The Dreadnought was getting pounded with the combination of both physical and magic attacks, it used its steam clean ability that helps it remove all debuff's status given to him by Vanille. Once they were gone the red haired girl cast them again they needed all the advantage they could need, Sazh has once again cast faith and bravery on the party because the effects went off. The Pulse mech open up its head ready to shoot its wrecking ball attack from underneath its chin, it meant big trouble for the l'Cie group.

"It's going to fire that attack again!" Vanille shouted.

"That's not good everyone take cover!" shouted Sazh.

The group has kept their distance as the Pulsian mech fire its wrecking ball causing an explosion Hope gasped watching the whole thing in wide eyes. The destruction of the attack caused a small crater on the ground below the party didn't wasted time now that it has let its guard down. Lightning and Seiryu charged slashing endlessly while Sazh used powerstrike with aero, Vanille used fire and water, Dreadnought looked like it was reaching its limit. But due with the damage and punishment it has taken it performed steam clean once erasing the desbuffs set by Vanille, the red haired l'Cie casted the same alignments again not caring if it will try to remove them again. Lightning fired a couple of rounds from her gun before casting ice and lightning on the mech, Seiryu followed using ruin.

The Dreadnought attacked with both arms and released fire at the same time causing the group to jumped back splitting into two groups. They noticed that it started to malfunctioned like it was ready to fall apart, it was a sign that a couple of attacks will do the trick. It was time to attack with everything they had Sazh used powerstrike, water and aero, Vanille used fire, water and ice Lightning used blitz followed by lightning and Seiryu used two slash followed by ruin. The Pulse mech was ready to blow but it decided to fire its wrecking ball attack again, only this time it was concentrating on all its remaining power to release a powerful version than the original. Seeing the sight the group stood frozen in shock even Lightning stood in her tracks, for someone like her to freeze was impossible she was a soldier.

"What's happening?" asked the nervous Vanille.

"That thing is going to blow before it released that attack!" Sazh said.

"Everyone get out of there now!" shouted Hope from the top of the destroyed ground.

Seiryu sheathed his sword back untying its sheath getting into a crouching stance" if we get hit with that attack surely we will not make it, I don't have a choice then…."

Before the group saw what was going to happen the Dreadnought was cut in half horizontally not giving the mech time to fire the strong attack ending up exploding, the wrecking ball was also cut in half. The trio stood in shock at what just happened it felt like blinking and it was all over one minute they were about to get blasted by a large iron ball and the next the Pulse was mech was cut in half. Their attention was turned when they heard the sound of a sword been sheathed back, they all turned to Seiryu putting his weapon back in his sheath. It hit them that he was the one that finished the Dreadnought before it fire the wrecking ball and the possibilities of killing them, Hope who saw everything was also shocked. They couldn't believe what they saw even if they had already witnessed it before it was still impressive every time they get the chance to see it.

"Son of a gun that came from out of nowhere" thought Sazh.

"The speed he used was impossible I never saw when he swung his sword that must have been the same attack he used to take out the PSICOM units back at the Lake Bresha ruins" Lightning thought.

"His strength is not possible even for an l'Cie" thought Vanille.

The drifter turned to them" is everyone all right?"

"We are now…." Sazh replied.

"Look out below!" shouted Hope.

They gasped when the silver haired teen fell on the afro haired gunner causing the group to sweat dropped at the sigh. The teen was relief that he didn't have kill by falling he was happy that the afro haired man saved him just in time.

"Sazh you broke my fall thanks."

"Son you broke my back thanks" he sweat dropped while his chocobo chick left his afro chirping a happy tune.

"Sorry about that" Hope left his back helping him get up" you okay….?"

"That would be a stupid question to ask kid you just fell on me."

"I said sorry…."

"That's okay no biggie it's nothing serious" said Vanille in her cheery mood.

"Easy for you to say you're not the one with the injured back."

"Anyway I'm glad both of you are all right" replied Seiryu.

"Yeah yeah" the afro haired gunner looked at the pile of burning scrap that was once the Dreadnought" Pulse is crawling with things like that, isn't it?"

"Got me, not even the Corps has access to intel on Pulse" said Lightning.

"I will take my guess that officials from the Sanctum have that kind of information" replied the blind drifter.

"Maybe soldiers in the field fight blind, no offense" she looked at Seiryu.

"None taken" he smiled.

"Yeah, I noticed that. But don't you need to know exactly what you're up against?" asked the afro haired pilot.

"Target's a target."

"You like to keep it simple, don't you?"

"I stick to my goal."

"As long as you have a goal, you can fight?" asked Hope.

"You can stay alive" the pink haired soldier started walking away.

"When you have people to protect you have to stay alive for their sake" Seiryu said getting everyone's attention" those people who are close to you or precious to you, they are the ones who makes it worth fighting for."

"Precious people?" the teen was taken back.

He nodded" family, friends…."

He put his hand on his shoulder smiling while he was thinking about his precious people there was only person who was very close to him, unfortunately that person wasn't present here. It tore his heart apart that his important person wasn't here, that's why he had to that person no matter what. Sazh lowered his gaze thinking about his precious person someone who makes his life complete and worth to be alive, he wasn't here and he was planning to find him as a worried sick father who loves his son dearly he will.

Vanille stood in deep thought as she let those words from the drifter sink into her head. It was true there was one person precious to her, close to her and she would die to protect that person. Because of her it was worth what she believed in and probably the reason she was fighting for. Hope smiled that Seiryu saw him as a friend but the precious part he only thought about his mother not his father, she was really precious to him but now she was gone. There was only one person responsible for her death and he was still out there and alive, the thought made him angry.

Lightning has stopped walking she was in deep thought too thinking about her only family, her sister Serah. It only made her angry that there was nothing she could do to prevent her from been marked as an l'Cie or becoming crystal. Seiryu's words seemed to have triggered her motivation even more, she will see this through the end whether she was going to do this alone or accompany with.

"Hey there's an entrance over there!" Vanille said pointing to an open way not too far from them.

"I hope it doesn't mislead us" Seiryu said.

"Only one way to find out" Sazh replied.

Lightning started walking ahead again jumping a couple of steps that lead her to the entrance, the party followed her shortly. The path was a long stairwell that was leading upward they were walking nonstop because the path, it looked like it didn't had no end. Eventually they found the exit which the path was upwards just like stair case it was going to be another climb for the group, they reached the top showing a straight path. They arrived at a large rusted pile of scrap with more scrap around the area it would never end Vanille and Hope went ahead as they started explore the place more while Sazh got seated next to Lightning and Seiryu chose to stay up next to the afro haired gunner. Both teen seemed to be enjoying looking around the place, at least for Vanille.

"Not much of a future for us, huh?" asked Sazh.

"Hard to picture a happy ending" replied the former soldier.

"We don't even know where to go?"

"I do…." she got up.

Seiryu reacted when he heard that he was now interested in the conversation.

"There."

Lightning pointed to the bright looking ship above them which Sazh blinked looking up, he thought she was actually kidding knowing what it was.

"Eden?"

"Eden?" the drifter was surprised.

The afro haired pilot chuckle at her remark" the Sanctum's seat of power oh that's a great idea, just charge right in there give'em a taste of l'Cie terror!"

Lightning was still staring at the far away Eden with a determined expression she was dead serious.

Sazh got the idea just by looking at her face" you're serious….?"

"Keep running, its die or turn Cie'th there's no place for I'Cie to hide. No they want a fight let's take it to the Sanctum's door?"

"This isn't a game!" the afro haired pilot still thought she was kidding.

"No that's for damn sure. It started with Serah the Fal'Cie took her, now I'm an l'Cie too and the Sanctum's hunting me an enemy of the state. But who's pulling their strings a Fal'Cie Eden Cocoon's sustainer and Guiding Light?"

"Stop the Cocoon's Fal'Cie their plan will not succeed it will only cost more human live like in the past wars" Seiryu remember Anima's last words.

"It probably ordered the Purge too, Pulse and Sanctum Fal'Cie they're all the same and we're all the same to them….expendable I'm not dying a Fal'Cie slave."

By now Vanille and Hope were present with them Seiryu already knew since he heard their footsteps coming here.

"So what are you gonna do?" asked Sazh.

"Destroy it…."

The afro haired pilot was shocked" by yourself what are you crazy?"

"Say you pull it off what's that get you satisfaction, something happens to Eden its lights out for Cocoon?"

He suddenly looked at her with realization in his face" you want that, you're Pulse l'Cie now you want to snuff out Cocoon?"

"But what about Serah she said to save Cocoon?" Vanille said" it might be our focus to make sure Cocoon stays -"

"Our focus doesn't matter I don't take orders from Fal'Cie, how I live is up to me" Lightning cut her off.

"Don't you mean how you die?" asked Sazh.

"Keep thinking like that and it's already over better to pick up your path and keep moving. Don't worry I'm after the Sanctum, I'm not out to destroy the world. If it did come to that, wonder if our "hero" will try and stop me?"

"You want to fight Snow now just like that and your enemies?" said the afro haired pilot.

"Next time we meet, we might be too."

"What about you Seiryu do you feel the same way too?" asked Vanille.

They turned to the blind drifter who has been quiet the entire time he took a small breath finally giving his thoughts" so beat it then…."

"What?" asked the red haired girl.

"Everyone we must face the truth here, this has become a kill or be killed situation we're enemies of the Sanctum now which means we have to fight them. We hunt them first before they hunt us first there's no other choice running won't solve anything with the exception of becoming a Cie'th, I'm not planning of becoming one."

He shook his head" so therefore in other to stop them from hunting us we have to attack the root of the problem….we have to take out the Fal'Cie that rules over Cocoon and the Sanctum whether if our focus is to destroy Cocoon or not, I'm doing this to survive."

Everyone was shocked as they let the fear sink in. Sazh was shocked while Vanille has lowered her head not believing that they weren't going to fulfill Serah's last request. Hope was in deep thought letting their words hit him so that he can come up with a decision however no one noticed the small smile that has crept on Lightning's lips. The pink haired soldier felt grateful that he was agreeing with her she knew very well she couldn't do this alone because it was suicide, her plan was pure insanity. At least she won't have to worry about traveling on her own the drifter was useful he was even crucial to fulfill her goal.

"So you're taking her side is that it?" Sazh wasn't feeling happy with this turns of events.

"I'm not picking any sides, only the best choice to survive running and hiding will eventually get you killed. It's better to die fighting trying to fulfill the effort to achieve that goal, and in order to hit a powerful blow on the Sanctum we have to hit the core of their military power….we must attack Eden."

"But Seiryu Serah asked us to save Cocoon do you want to disobey her last will?" Vanille was shocked of course she expected this kind of answer from Lightning but definitely not from him.

"Taking down Eden means the destruction of Cocoon I'm well aware of that, however…."

He turned to the former soldier he could somehow feel that she was staring into his eyes" if there is a way to save Serah without leading to the destruction of Cocoon, then I will find that way until the end. I have decided to repay my debt to you with saving her….Lightning."

"What if there isn't a way to save her?" asked the pink haired soldier never taking her gaze from him.

"I will find it I'm not giving up and neither should you…."

She nodded in deep thought she finally left and the blind drifter followed her, both of them have made their decision and their resolve. They were planning in going to the Cocoon capital and the heart of the Sanctum Eden, with the purpose to take down the Fal'Cie even if they both know it will lead to the planet's destruction. They have chosen their path and they weren't planning in backing out and they were aware that both Sazh and Vanille weren't planning in joining them in their goal, as for Hope they were still unsure.

"So you want to become Snow's enemy too?" Sazh asked the blind drifter.

"I admit I don't like how he lives his life however, his heart is in the right place and he cares for his friends I hope it doesn't come to that. I don't want to end up fighting my own comrades…."

"Taking the path you're taking right now we'll lead to that" replied the afro haired gunner.

"Then so beat it I have made my choice" he turned his head to the two l'Cie" you're not planning in coming I know that but please take care you two, I wish our paths will cross again farewell…."

"Then let's not say goodbye" Vanille said smiling at them" maybe we will, be careful."

"What about you Hope?" Seiryu looked at the young l'Cie who didn't answer.

"Let's go" Lightning started walking again leaving the group.

The drifter sighed as he followed her he was being watched by the three remaining members of the party, hoping that they know what they were getting themselves into.

"Seiryu" Vanille never took her green eyes from him she hoped she see him again.

Hope was still in thought remembering what both of them said taking the path to take on the Sanctum and Eden will eventually go against Snow's wishes since he wanted to fulfill his fiancés request in saving Cocoon. Both Lightning and Seiryu will become enemies of the NORA leader this was his perfect chance to become strong and finally face him, in a attempt to avenge his mother. Following the two l'Cie will make him enemy of the tall blond that's how he wanted things to be.

"He's my enemy too…."

He turned to Sazh and Vanille" Snow deserves it…."

With that he left leaving them behind they weren't expecting the silver haired teen to join up in Lightning's battle against the Sanctum. They were the only ones who didn't wanted to fight and take the path to destroy Cocoon, their only choice right now is to run and hide wherever they will go.

Vanille shook her head" I don't know what I should do?"

"That makes two of us" replied Sazh.

She smiled giving him a friendly push" hey you're taking care of me."

"Well I won't be if you keep pushing me like that."

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Vile Peaks Scavenger's Trail)

Lightning and Seiryu were walking another path that will probably lead them out of the scrap like place and into a path that will take them to the Sanctum's capital they will have to escape with their lives here first. None of them said a word about their decision they didn't felt like talking after all they just split from the others, the former soldier wasn't bothered by it but the drifter was affected by the depart. He was used to have them around they have become his comrades his friends, he hated leaving people he cares about behind. He didn't say goodbye because he had faith that he will see them again, he suddenly heard footsteps coming from behind them he had a feeling who it was.

He smiled happy to know that he has made his choice too" so you're coming with us too?"

"Wait for me!"

Lightning turned to see Hope heading their way he was panting she didn't wanted this Seiryu was enough she didn't needed someone who didn't had any experience in battle. The teen will slow her down and he will get in the way of her mission, the teen was just dead weight.

"I'm going with you" Hope panted.

"I can't babysit you anymore" she replied harshly.

"I can fight I'm not afraid."

Seiryu reacted hearing footsteps coming from in front of them, he removed his swords" we have company!"

They turned to see four corps gunner and one PSICOM tracker, the unit was pointing their rifles at them.

"Great, a PSICOM hit squad."

The PSICOM tracker pressed a button from a detonator destroying some nearby rubble from behind them trapping them or preventing them from going back the way they came.

"It seems they were planning of ambushing us from the start" replied the drifter.

Lightning took her gun blade while Hope took his boomerang facing the military group. Seiryu was the first to act as he killed the tracker with one slash of his sword, Lightning used blitz on two corps gunner while Hope used fire and water on one of them. The blind drifter killed one of the gunners as the pink haired soldier finished off the two with a combination of ruin and blitz, Hope managed to kill the last gunner with lightning. The former soldier was watching the silver haired teen and she admitted she was impressed with his performance maybe he wasn't as useless as she thought.

"Not bad."

"Really, thanks" he smile while panting.

"You did well Hope" Seiryu said.

He nodded" but what about the others do you think they're safe?"

"I'm sure they must have gotten away to safety, after all they aren't taking the same path we're following."

"There will be more soldiers we should keep moving" replied the youth" Lightning are you worried about the others Seiryu may be right, maybe they got away okay."

"So can you if you leave now, with me it will be fight after fight I don't how it will end is anybody's guess."

"I don't know, but I need to be stronger…."

"Let him come with us Lightning he has already proven to be a worthy ally" replied the blind drifter.

Hope smiled looking at the pink haired soldier who hasn't reply" Lightning?"

"Call me Light."

Seiryu smiled hearing that" so now is Light….from Lightning to Light what's with the sudden change?"

"Very well then Light are you going to let Hope travel with us?"

"He's already here might as well make use of him" she replied harshly.

"Thanks…." he lowered his head a little" what's the plan from here?"

"Through the Garpa Whitewood to Palumpolum, we'll find transport to Eden."

"I see we're taking the hard path to get there" replied the drifter.

"It's the only path to take to get to Eden from here, we don't have a choice" replied the former Guardian Corps soldier.

"Hey I live in Palumpolum I can show you all the shortcuts" said Hope.

"No side trips."

"No need, I don't think l'Cie are welcome at home."

"That's how it is when it comes to l'Cie especially anything or anyone related to Pulse, it's to be expected" said Seiryu.

They continued walking making their way to a long path, the place in general was surrounded with rocks and some scrap the usual for such a place. They keep their guard up after their little encounter with PSICOM they were well aware that the military organization was here looking for them, so they had double trouble to deal with, the monsters in the region and PSICOM. They reached two rusted cylinders big in size before Seiryu stopped making the two looked at him.

"What is it?" asked Lightning.

"There's company ahead…."

"Do you know how many?" asked Hope.

"There's only two."

"Probably PSICOM we can take this" the pink haired soldier took her Blaze fire saber.

Seiryu nodded and removed his sword joining the former soldier as they went between the two rusted cylinders, and he was right. They saw two Corps regular who spotted them immediately they never stood a chance, Seiryu killed one with one strike while Lightning took the other with blitz they were truly weak opponents. She sheathed her gun blade back looking at the blind drifter sheathed his sword back, she stared at the dead Corps regular he managed to killed him quickly than herself. Hope arrived and there was no need for him since the battle was already over before it begun.

"It's hard to believe that you're a drifter, with your skills I thought you were some kind of hire gun."

"A mercenary, you're mistaken I am not related to the army or any kind of work that requires killing."

"You're not from Cocoon?" she looked at him.

"I'm always traveling I don't have a home of my own."

"I see…."

"Have you been traveling a lot?" asked Hope.

"Yes I have."

"Does that mean that you have been to Pulse?"

"Perhaps…."

Both Hope and Lightning got interested hearing that never either of them they will meet someone who had traveled to lower world and the enemy territory of Cocoon. It was a bit suspicious that's what came over the pink haired soldier's head that someone has traveled to Pulse and survive, she didn't believed in the propaganda of the Sanctum that it was truly and infernal place even if it was considered an enemy. She was curious of the lower world itself but it didn't meant she trusted it, she was asking a lot of questions in her mind while Hope was still shocked of the revelation. She kept on walking while her eyes were ahead but she was listening to their conversation.

"So you have been to Pulse, how it was there?"

"Why are you so interested in knowing about the world that is considered Cocoon's enemy?"

"I….I just want to know what kind of world is it I heard so many rumors that it was a really an infernal ground filled with horrible monsters. I also heard that it was a land covered in fire and anybody that goes there gets burn."

"Don't believe in such things they are only rumors" Lightning said.

"Agree all those rumors are made up stories because of the fear the people of Cocoon feel towards Pulse, none of them knows about that world they only believe the rumors brought up by another. When fear from the heart is strong anyone would believe all kinds of things, it's the fear and hatred for Pulse that makes them think and say such things" replied the drifter.

Hope nodded understanding his point" I guess that can be true, no one has been to Pulse so they would come up with anything bad because they see it as their enemy, but you've been there."

"Perhaps I might tell you in the future our journey to Eden will be a long one…."

They kept on walking although the silver haired teen was feeling curious to know about the lower world, it has also perked Lightning's curiosity but not in the same level as the young l'Cie. During their travel they encountered the same enemy two Corps regular who didn't put much of a fight they were easy picking they had the ability to cast mana drive fire but they were still beaten, the trio was way stronger than them. As they kept on walking they meet up with another enemy different from PSICOM mobile units it was a floating mech, not as big as the Alpha and Beta Behemoth though. They took covered from a corner the mech hasn't spotted them yet Hope made some quick thinking as her performed Libra on the floating mechanized unit.

"It's called Uhlan it's weak against water and lightning element it can also deliver powerful physical attacks."

"I have seen them from the Guardian Corps data base" replied Lightning.

"It looks tough let's not underestimate it" said Seiryu taking his sword.

The group charged at the mech while the Uhlan has spotted them going for attack mode, knowing it can delivered strong physical attacks Hope was clever casting protect on the party. Lightning used lighting followed by water, Seiryu used ruin and a couple of slash. The Uhlan fired its machine guns the pink haired soldier was lucky to block them with her gun blade Seiryu teamed up with Hope as he used ruin and the teen used lightning, water and another shot of lightning. The military mech was soon damaged to get staggered that they took the upper hand and went all out, Lightning charged at it and attack it with blade covered in lighting hitting the mech dead on. After a couple of successful attacks the Uhlan as it exploded, the trio left before any more reinforcements arrived to investigate the cause of the mech's explosion.

Lightning looked at Seiryu then at Hope maybe she was wrong of having the silver haired teen joining them, he has become useful in battle just like the drifter. She will need their help if she wanted to get to Eden in one piece the journey wasn't going to be a pleasant one, or easy for the matter. They arrived at a wide area where there was more scrap than usual around there seems to be a deactivated Dreadnought in a corner she silently hoped it wasn't active or they might end up fighting it like the last one. Seiryu suddenly heard footsteps not too far from them obviously it was from PSICOM because they had this area secure, the trio was well aware as they took cover from a behind a boulder.

"Any trace of the l'Cie?" asked a PSICOM tracker.

The PSICOM ranger was investigating the deactivated Dreadnought" nothing, no sign that it's been activated."

The PSICOM ranger noticed some movement on the boulder behind them" who's there?"

Both ran at the boulder as the trio faced them with no choice but to fight them. Lightning used blitz on both of them as Seiryu killed one with one slash and Hope used fire, water and lightning on the second one. The pink haired soldier finished it off with firing a round from her gun killing the unit soldier. The group sheathed their weapons back once the fight was over their attention was turned to the mechanized Pulse armament that seemed to be dead.

"What was PSICOM doing here?" Hope was checking the mech.

"Probably thought we'd use the Pulse machine to try and escape" said Lightning.

"Most likely, it must mean that the machine can still be use" Seiryu replied.

"Maybe we should try it, what does this do?" the teen was looking over the mech.

"Hope be careful" the drifter said.

The pink haired soldier frowned at the youth's carelessness" hey you're gonna hurt yourself don't touch that!"

Seiryu smiled hearing her tone of concern for the teen" it seems there is a caring side of Lightning after all."

"I'm not being caring he's useful for the mission" she was still frowning.

"Whatever you say" the blind drifter was still smiling.

"Wait, what if it works?" asked the silver haired teen getting on top of the head of the Dreadnought where the control mechanism is located.

"Leave it" Lightning was still frowning.

"Hope I have to agree that's enough come down, don't be careless…."

But it was too late the young l'Cie has activated the control activating the Pulse mech, it surprised him that it was still running because it looks very old.

"I told you to leave it" the former soldier felt annoyed that he didn't listen to her.

"Stop stop already!" Hope was trying to control the large armament.

He suddenly got a hold of the controls making the mech to stay still" I think I got it, Light I can work this!"

The pink haired soldier wasn't happy a bit Hope disobeyed her and now he was fooling around with a Pulse armament mech, not taking her mission seriously. She was also annoyed for thinking she could accept him to help her, when he was clearly playing but there was only one person to put the blame for this, she looked over to Seiryu who was quiet he was probably not feeling the same way as her she noticed he was gazing at her.

"Don't look at me like that it's your fault, for making him come with us…."

"I apologize Light but I can't see" he gave a small smirk.

"You know what I mean?" she sweat dropped.

Hope controlling the Pulse armament used its mechanical arms to hit the bridge bringing it down, allowing them to cross to the other side. They followed the teen to the other side where he destroyed a barricade and things seemed to have gotten out of hand as a large group of Pulsework soldiers charged at him, Lightning was about to interfere when Seiryu stopped her. She looked at him when she looked back at the youth she was surprised, using the mech the youth defeated all of them with just its swings of its arms proving how powerful it was. They continued following him as they witnessed Hope beating fown Pulsework soldier after another, he even defeated a group of ten with one attack from the mech. He continued walking forward jumping a couple of steps down he was meet by another group of Pulsework soldiers and he went all out of them showing no mercy not leaving a single one alive, while Lighting and Seiryu were following him from the distance, climbing down the stone stairs.

"You have to admit Hope's idea is quite effective."

"I don't like it" she replied crossing her arms.

"But this sure saves a lot of time and energy, we don't have to engage them in combat…."

"I still don't like it."

"You're not pleased because you think it should be you the one down there beating them all up" Seiryu gave a small smirk.

The pink haired soldier was about to say something before she closed her mouth staying quiet because she knew he was right"…."

"Light?" the drifter noticed something was up.

"Touché…." She muttered.

Hope defeated the remaining Pulsework soldiers as he crossed a large bridge he gasped seeing a cliff in front of him, he pressed the brake lever but it wasn't working. He yelled the Dreadnought fell on the cliff, he felt on the ground on his behind feeling the pain. He groaned taking a look at his arm there was some blood on his left elbow, at least he was safe and he was able to opened a path for his friends to crossed over and walk ahead.

"Nice landing."

He got up seeing Lightning and Seiryu jumping down getting to his side.

"Are you all right Hope?" asked the drifter.

"I'm okay…."

"Told you, you should leave it" the former soldier scolded him.

"Hope you're hurt" Seiryu was able to feel the wound on his elbow.

The silver haired teen didn't wanted to feel like a burden to Lightning or anything that might slow her down in her mission, he saw her staring at him with a disapproving expression he was nervous that she will get angry at him. He thought the worst that she will leave him behind because he wasn't strong enough to help her, he needed to accompany her in order to get strong and face Snow.

"This is nothing I'm fine I can go on no problem."

"We have to treat it or it will get infected, a potion however won't be enough to heal it though."

The youth saw the former soldier getting close to him he was nervous at the way she was staring at him" no she looks angry I knew it she's going to abandon me, because I disobeyed her for controlling the armament I should have listen to her now I'm hurt…."

Lightning groaned shaking her head" let me see…."

"What Light?" he blinked as she went closer to his wound.

She saw the blood from the wound she pointed her right hand before it was glowing with a white glow, the magic healed the wound closing it completely stopping the bleeding.

"What….?" Hope was shocked at the sight.

Seiryu touched the wound feeling there wasn't any more blood coming out" Light you healed it?"

"You just used cure" replied the silver haired teen" I didn't know you could cast medical magic."

"I didn't know either…."

"Perhaps you learned the spell as a result of us developing in strength and magic, being an l'Cie means that we get strong with the more battles we fight" said Seiryu.

"Yeah we will learn new skills and magic, it makes me wonder how strong we will become" Hope said.

"Let's get going" Lightning started walking heading to the path before them.

"Just need a minute. I feel winded" replied the teen.

The pink haired soldier turned to him" you're too soft."

They saw her walking ahead before Hope sighed in relief" I thought she was going to get upset with me for not listening to her."

"It sure seemed that way but you're misjudging her."

"What do you mean?"

"Light may looked like she's cold and serious on the outside but on the inside she's really caring, it makes her hard for her to let people in or even trust them, I believe I told you that before…."

The former soldier of the Guardian Corps stopped walking frowning because she overheard Seiryu. She thought that the whole cold on the outside big softy on the inside was very corny.

"Let's go you two!"

"Coming!" said Hope catching up to her with the blind drifter next to him.

---

(Scene change)

(Location: Vile Peaks Scavenger's Trail)

The group was going through the usual continuing to explore the area they obviously encountered some PSICOM rangers and corps regular, even some trackers but nothing they could handle. It has been very easy for them to beat them they were growing stronger little by little it also proved how good they have become in battle. However things got a little tough for the trio as they encountered a couple of Uhlan along the way the mechanized units were tough physical attacks didn't took too much damage they relied on magic, lightning element that was very effective on them. Even if Hope and Seiryu got hurt fighting the floating mechs because of their missile launch attack which spreads a lot of damage to everyone in one place, luckily Lightning used her new learned spell cure healing their injuries and both were grateful to her. It did bother her that she had to heal them it will only make them to rely on her even more, and she didn't wanted that.

After finishing all the battles thinking it will never end because they knew PSICOM had the entire area secured looking for them while Hope and Seiryu were hoping that by now Sazh and Vanille have already gone to safety away from here and the military organization, both will like to see them again. Even if they have been victorious against their enemies they have been fighting for a while without any rest or taking a break to eat something that the drifter was well aware. He could hear Hope panting he was obviously tired who wouldn't after everything they have gone through and the battles they have fought, but taking a rest wasn't going to be easy. He knew Lightning wouldn't approve of it or even be happy about it she was a survivor she could probably survive long enough without rest or food but not Hope, he was just a kid and with everything he has endured he was still tough in his eyes.

He sighed mentally she has to understand that they haven't take a rest or eaten anything since they were turned into l'Cie back at the Vestige, but he had a feeling she won't agree. Someone like her would be too proud and stubborn to admit that any of them needed rest when they have chosen to help her in her attack to Eden, she would have to listen to reason. He walked ahead from Hope as he got next to the pink haired soldier who was looking ahead, making sure that they weren't anyone from PSICOM ready to ambush them.

"I would have to find a way to make her realize our situation…."

"Light there's something I've wanted to ask you, if you feel like answering me."

"What….?"

"It's about your sister…."

She looked at him with a sudden look she wasn't expecting him to talk about her, she turned her gaze back ahead" go on…."

"Did Serah ever tell you about her focus?"

The former soldier shook her head" she never told me a thing about it…."

"I see but it's all right I'm certain she didn't bother telling you because she didn't wanted to worry you."

Her sky blue eyes softened feeling a pain in her chest it was growing little by little" or maybe she didn't trusted me enough…."

"Or perhaps she didn't want to give you any more burdens since you were already busy with your work at the Guardian Corps she was probably looking after your welfare she expected that you would feel terrible if you find out that she was an l'Cie. It's only natural for the younger sibling to worry about her older sibling, and vice versa."

"I wish that was true…." Lightning eyes were showing a lot of grief and sorrow thinking about her sister and about a certain day that changed her life for the worst, and it wasn't when she became an l'Cie.

"Also there's something else and I apologize for asking too much of you. But I know that you're the kind of person who would prefer to do things on your own without asking for any help from no one, I understand that because you're independent. However that's not going to work in this situation you're not the only one who has become an l'Cie and an enemy of Cocoon, whether you like it or not we're in this together…."

"I'm beginning to understand that logic now."

"Really, sorry for sounding so surprised I was expecting that you were going to oppose."

"I'm letting you two to accompany me to Eden so I will believe it's quite obvious…."

"My apologies but if you feel that way then I have a suggestion, we have been traveling for so long and the battles has make it even harder for us perhaps we should get some rest."

"Not yet, we will find some food and shelter once we leave the Vile Peaks" replied the pink haired soldier.

Seiryu sighed hearing that" I had a feeling she was going to say that…."

"Come one Seiryu let's keep going" Hope got ahead of him catching up to Lightning.

"I apologize Hope but it seems you will have to wait a little longer before you get your well deserve rest."

Even if the silver haired teen looked like he wasn't tired the blind drifter could tell that he was exhausted, his panting was enough. He didn't know how much he will be able to take it was anyone's guess he could collapse any minute now, but he did agreed with Lightning to an extent. Getting some rest in this area was wrong because PSICOM had this place secured, they can get caught if they are staying her for the night.

The group finally reached a wide area with a waterfall and a long wooden bridge to cross the other side Lightning had a feeling that they were close from leave the Vile Peaks. All they needed to do is keep going ahead maybe if luck was on their side they probably won't have to face anymore forces of PSICOM her train of thought was interrupted as she heard someone falling to the ground. She turned to see Hope falling to the ground due to exhaustion and just like Seiryu thought that he has finally reached his limit and he couldn't go on any longer, that was the final straw for the pink haired soldier. She has already put up enough with the young l'Cie and she knew she was making a mistake in letting him join her on her mission, but that was going to end right now.

"This isn't working" she turned to the silver haired teen with a glare" I mean you're a liability you will only slow me down."

"What….?" asked the teen.

"I'm sorry but I can't protect you and-"she felt the pain in her chest getting stronger than before.

"Perhaps you should reconsider your decision in taking a rest" Seiryu said hoping that she will agree.

"No I had enough of him, he's only going to get in my way this is as far as he goes" she suddenly felt the pain in her chest getting stronger within the minute.

"What you can't leave me here you must take me with you?" retorted Hope.

"Enough!" she shouted feeling the pain in her chest getting worst it started releasing a strange energy" the whole world is against us I….I can barely keep myself alive let alone some helpless kid you're a nuisance I don't have time to baby you. You want to get tough then do it on your own!" the mysterious power in her chest was growing stronger and more painful.

"Light please calm down" the drifter got worried sensing a powerful force coming from inside of her" what's happening….?"

"And you?" she glared at the blind drifter" stop trying to help me like you know me at all because you don't know nothing about me, so stay out of my life I don't need your help and I certainly don't need no one's help!"

She screamed in pain as a pink colored magic circle has appeared on the ground below her, the magical force was getting even stronger than before as a bright light appeared from the circle.

"Light!" Seiryu shouted at the former soldier feeling the force" what is this power it's so strong….?"

Once the light and the magic circle vanished something stood in its place. Hope and Lightning gasped seeing a mystical being wearing a unique type of armor holding a powerful looking double blade sword and a large shield. The being's eyes stared at the pink haired soldier and although she was shocked, she looked like somehow she knew him.

"This cannot be happening…."

"Your anger has summoned me l'Cie" spoke the being.

"What….I can hear him talking in my mind?" Lightning was shocked.

"The time has come for you to prove yourself can you fight me with everything you have, can you heal your allies?"

He raised his hand at her" doom…."

"What….?" she felt a powerful wave hit her and her heart has suddenly started decreasing speed somehow she could feel that her life was reaching an end.

Her eyes widened she was seeing a countdown of ten minutes in front of her and she had a horrible feeling about this" what did you do….?"

"When the countdown reaches cero your life will end now fight!"

Hope was still shocked at the sight of the being" what is that thing….?"

The being has started its assault as he chose to attack the young l'Cie he was too shocked to react to the incoming attack. Lightning tried to save him but she knew she wasn't going to make it however it was Seiryu who blocked the beings attack crashing his sword with his double bladed weapon.

"Seiryu….?" asked the shock Hope.

The blind drifter was still feeling its strong power emitting from him" I see….this must be an Eidolon that the legends talked about, they say they appear to l'Cie and give them a test of death or perhaps there's something else to it…."

"Light we don't have a choice but to fight him."

She nodded taking her gun blade of course she knew she had to fight him seeing the countdown to end her life was in eight minutes. If she didn't defeat him before the timer runs out she will die she charged at the Eidolon as it made a jump heading away from the wooden bridge. Hope has taken his boomerang he wasn't going to get in the way he will help his friends in the battle especially Lightning he needed to prove to her that he wasn't a burden. He used lightning but the Eidolon wasn't affected by it, the holy being casted thundara which hit the teen full force, making him groan in pain.

"Hope!" shouted the drifter.

Both Lighting and Seiryu double teamed the Eidolon as he blocked their attack with its shield he countered hitting both of them with its double sword. The blind drifter was injured the same with the pink haired soldier the blood was spilling from their wounds, both got up as they went to the attack again. Remembering that Hope's lightning didn't affected it the former soldier used fire, water and ice causing some damage but not enough. Seiryu used ruin followed by quick slashes the Eidolon just blocked them in the same speed, it was enough to shocked him he attacked it again but he blocked it yet again.

"He blocked all of my attacks Eidolons are as strong as the legends say…."

He gasped the Eidolon slashed in his ribs as he made an air slash sending him to the ground he was lying next to the unconscious Hope. Lightning stood in shock watching both of her fellow l'Cie as they were beaten in battle what shocked her; the most was that the blind drifter was defeated when she has witnessed his strength in battle. He was truly strong it made her feel that she didn't stood a chance against the mighty being before her, since he was able to take down Seiryu so easily. She felt so angry glaring at the Eidolon she tightened the hold on her Blaze fire saber, she charged at it with so much force.

"You will pay for that!"

Both were clashing their weapons over and over again with quick speed the pink haired soldier was not going to back down or give up for the matter, she made another attack as she changed her weapon firing a couple of rounds. The bullets didn't even fazed the being as it blocked with its shield her eyes widened as it raised his hand holding his double sword casting thundara, she screamed as the strong jolt of lightning hit her body. She felt numb and out of energy as she felt on her knees she saw the Eidolon charging at her unleashing a powerful attack with its blade, she managed to block it but not the second attack. She was injured on her lower abdomen making blood to appear from her new fresh wound, she saw the mighty being heading her way raising its weapon attacking her.

She blocked it but the Eidolon was stronger than her as it threw her to the ground her gun blade was lose it landed next to her. She gasped getting hit by thundara again she coughed blood staring at the being that was ready to finish her off, she couldn't believe it was going to end like this. This wasn't what she had plan when she dies even as a soldier she knew that someday she will lose her life, she looked at her life countdown caused by doom she only had five minutes left. She didn't had any strength left to fight it was all over and yet, she didn't felt like crying because in her entire life she has never shed a single tear not even when her parents died. Just when the Eidolon was about to finish her its weapon was blocked, her eyes widened seeing her savior Seiryu blocking the attack with his sword.

"Seiryu….you're all right?"

"I'm fine Light Hope is all right too…."

"What?" she turned to see the silver haired teen standing he didn't looked so good.

"I'm not giving up" he casted protect and shell on all three.

"But what can we do….he's too strong?" she replied in whisper.

The blind drifter tightened his hold against the Eidolon's double sword" Light listen to me I don't think we're supposed to kill him like other opponents that we defeated, this Eidolon is not planning in killing us or he would have done so since the start of the fight…."

The Eidolon send him back as it fired thundara it hit Seiryu but he wasn't affected by the attack that much because he had shell thanks to Hope. The teen use fire, aero and water hitting it while the drifter added damage using ruin. Lightning watched in awe seeing her two companions fighting even if they were wounded or the chances of winning the fight were less than cero, her life timer was only on three minutes left. But what can she do all of their attacks weren't affecting the mighty being and Seiryu's words reached out to her, they aren't supposed to finish it off then what was the point of the fight in the first place. She went and picked up her gun blade while the Eidolon was busy fighting Seiryu and Hope, her sky blue eyes were on the mighty being fighting the two l'Cie.

"What do you want….?"

"What do you want, if you're not going to kill us then what's the point of fighting us….fighting me?"

Both Hope and Seiryu went next to her joining together with the former soldier they wanted to be reunited as a team fighting the Eidolon.

"What are we going to do that thing is so strong?" asked Hope.

"Light according to legends Eidolons appeared to an l'Cie to bring them death however they offered them a life and death trial for them to overcome in order for them to decide their fate."

"A trial…." Her eyes widened a realization" a test?"

"That's what it seems however knowing what the test is all about it's the hardest part."

"So what's the test about?" asked the silver haired teen.

"Your guess is as good as mine, Light you were the one that summoned the Eidolon therefore I believe you're the only one to figure out what's the test. You're the only one who can win over it…."

She nodded facing the Eidolon who was about to cast thundara again but Seiryu stopped it using a powerful strike with his sword Hope followed using fire, water and ice. She stood in deep thought remembering the drifter's words her life counter was in two minutes left to live. Her eyes widened remembering what the Eidolon told her before the fight started.

"Can you fight me with everything you have can you heal your allies?"

"Attack him with everything I had healed my allies, that's it….attack and heal."

"Hope cast cure!"

The young l'Cie nodded casting the healing spell while she cast cure on Seiryu, she charged at it crashing weapons with it.

"Seiryu let's attack it at the same time!"

The drifter nodded as her performed ruin followed by a couple of attacks following the pink haired soldier's advice, both weren't showing in it mercy. Hope cast cure on himself and his two friends he then changed to offense using fire and aero. The Eidolon blocked their attacks as it managed to injure the drifter once more, Lightning was quick to performed cure on him. She wasn't intending of having anymore wounded companions while she was here, she was suddenly hit by thundara she was able to take the attack she had shell. She casted cure on herself facing the Eidolon with a lot of determination in her eyes she charged at it while Seiryu was busy fighting it. The drifter used ruin as Lightning charged at the mighty being her life counter was now at fifty seconds left, she didn't have time.

She charged again casting ice and fire the Eidolon has used its shield to cover itself from the magic attacks. She clashed weapons again only this time she was faster than normal while Hope was in awe at the way she was moving, Seiryu was only smiling. The mighty being was now having problem blocking her attacks not to mention that it couldn't find a way to counter, she was showing no mercy. She attacked it with everything she had while her life timer only had thirty seconds left, every second counts. It was all or nothing as she slashed her way through the being's defenses her life was on the line.

"Serah this is for you…."

10….

She blocked another attack countering it endlessly while the Eidolon was still having problems to keep up with her.

9….

Lightning used a combination of ruin with blitz while the being was able to block it with its shield.

8….

Both were still going out with no intention of stopping however it was very clear that the former soldier was gaining the advantage over it.

7….

Seiryu and Hope assisted her with their own attack, the teen used aero and fire and the drifter used ruin.

6….

She used another strong attack with her gun blade that when the Eidolon blocked it, it made its shield flew of its hand leaving it defenseless.

5….

Her attacks become even faster and stronger against it, she had the bigger advantage over the being.

4….

The Eidolon didn't have time to cast thundara as it got hit with blitz and ruin.

3….

The pink haired soldier used the next attack using all of her strength while thinking about her companions and especially her younger sister.

2….

The attack caused the Eidolon to lose its double blade sword as it stabbed the ground it was now completely defenseless, it only meet the tip of her Blaze fire saber.

1….

"It's over….I win."

After that the doom spell was lifted allowing Lightning to survive the encounter she was panting a lot while her features were dirty from the dirt and some fresh wounds, but they weren't too serious. She waited and waited for an answer from the might lightning being, which stood still without saying a word at least to her mind.

"Say something?"

"Congratulations l'Cie you have passed the test, from now on my power is yours for the taking Lightning Farron…."

She gave a small smile as she already knew its name" Odin!"

The Eidolon of lighting jumped in the air entering its gestalt mode, Hope was in awe as it saw the mighty being transforming into a majestic looking horse. The horse flew down to get its new master and companion as she grabbed its double blade sword, she split the weapon in two having two separate swords. She was now using Odin's weapon Zantetsuken, the iron cutting sword.

"Odin…."

"Don't give up Lightning I will fight by your side whenever you may need me."

With that said Odin vanished as it changed into a pink rose shape crystal, the small crystal went to her chest on her left breast where he l'Cie brand mark was located. The battle was finally over as Seiryu and Hope went to her they were happy she has overcome the test of an Eidolon, the silver haired teen noticed that her brand mark looked a little different from usual.

"Light are you okay?"

"I'm sure she's fine after surviving quite the tough battle" replied the drifter.

"Your brand looks a little different, that was an Eidolon right the summon of an l'Cie right?"

"So it seems…."

"Magic mumbo jumbo I must have hit my head back on that Purge train" Lighting said a bit lazily.

Seiryu chuckle" the fight must have taken a toll on you anyone would feel like that, you probably need rest more than us."

"I will take the rest once we leave this place it's not safe here with PSICOM running the place."

She started walking out crossing the bridge before she stopped lowering her gaze remembering the words she told both of her two companions before Odin appeared. She felt terrible with herself feeling guilty for snapping at both of them none of them didn't deserved it, especially Seiryu. She felt even worst now remembering exactly what she told him even after everything he has done for her saving her life three times when she hasn't thanked him yet, defending the way she is, agreeing with her mission to attack Eden, accepting the fact to save her sister and fighting by her side.

"What's wrong Light why are we stopping?" asked Hope.

"Look I….what I said before to you two I didn't mean it, I'm sorry."

"That's all right Light I understand that you thought I was just getting in your way but I promise I will try hard to get better" replied the youth.

She nodded" I will toughen you up."

"I will help too" replied Seiryu.

They resumed walking while the former soldier got next to the blind drifter.

"Listen Seiryu…."

"Don't apologize anymore Light it's all right."

"No it's not all right-"

"Your reaction towards me and Hope was understandable. You were angry, frustrated, hurt for everything that has happen your sister becoming an l'Cie, getting crystallized, us becoming l'Cie too and now we're enemies of Cocoon. It's natural for anyone to snap the way you did your reaction towards us was justified, you couldn't control it…."

"You're saying that it was good that I snapped at you?" she raised an eyebrow.

"I suppose yes…."

"You're not helping your making me feel worst."

"I apologize then."

She only sighed walking ahead" never mind…."

Hope only chuckle at the sight as he continued walking with the two l'Cie. They finally crossed the bridge heading into a path that it looked like it was leading to a new area, it seemed they were finally leaving the Vile Peaks, or at least that's what they thought. Seiryu gasped when he heard footsteps in front of them they were met by two Corps regulars, two trackers and two Uhlans this was the last thing they needed. They were exhausted from the fight with Odin there was no way they will be able to take on so many PSICOM units.

"What are we going to do there's too many of them?" asked Hope.

"We're in no condition to be fighting we're also outnumbered" Seiryu said.

"You two leave this to me" Lightning faced the six opponents ready to take them on.

She released the rose shape crystal from her chest" you said you will fight by my side whenever I may need you, now's that time Odin!"

She threw the crystal into the air as she broke it with her gun blade the shattered of the crystal caused a pink magic circle to appear. In a flash of light her new partner and Eidolon Odin appeared holding its shield and double blade it went next to her as both faced the PSICOM units. They charged at them unleashing one hell of a lightning storm barrage, in other words the military forces didn't stand a chance.

"So this is the power of an Eidolon impressive….and now it belongs to you Light you have earned yourself quite an ally" thought the drifter.

---

To be continued

The chapter is finally done and it's even longer than the last one I hope you enjoy it. I really enjoyed writing the Odin battle I thought it fit well better than the game, it's my opinion though. Remember to review if you like it I will see you all next time farewell.

I also can't forget to say HAPPY HOLIDAYS MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ME GRAVENIMAGE AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Next time: Revenge