Chapter 8 Hope
Disclaimer: I don't own FFXIII it belongs to square enix bla bla bla.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
Previously….
Sazh and Vanille have luckily left the Vile Peaks and reached a forest area called the Sunleth Waterscape in an attempt to get away from their pursuers. Confident that they did the right thing in running away rather than fighting after seeing a couple of PSICOM sky fleets heading to Palumpolum, they chose to take the other way which lead to the city of dreams known as Nautilus. After using his nose Sazh found food nearby letting their hunger take over they went to dig in. they made a big mistake that the food had an owner. Both l'Cie met Akeshi a young girl which the first thing they noticed of her was that she was very rude and obnoxious.
Not trusting them for intruding with her meal she let them eat feeling sorry for them, she has shown some hostility towards them. Immediately she has shown some dislike towards Vanille seeing her too trusting and too kind for her own good, she even started calling her princess Vanilla as a way to tease her. She already knew that they were l'Cie it was a mystery how she figured out Sazh told her of their destination, and she agreed to help them get through the forest and lead them to Nautilus where she was planning of parting ways with them there. While traveling Sazh and Vanille saw that Akeshi was quite skilful and strong for someone her age with how easily she took out a lot of the monsters they encountered.
Feeling curious of her afro haired companion Vanille asked Sazh about himself, Akeshi obviously reminded them that she wasn't planning in telling them any information about herself. Sazh on the other hand didn't had any trouble as he revealed that he has a son, a young boy by the name of Dajh. Thinking about his son he remembered the day he was making wish under the firework festival at Bodhum, wishing him that he will act like himself being happy. He took the boy carrying him showing that he was already happy as a way that his wish came true, and he in return made a wish.
Eventually he revealed to both Vanille and Akeshi that Dajh became a Sanctum l'Cie telling the story behind his son's picked by a Cocoon Fal'Cie, which revolves the event at the Eouride Gorge energy plant. Hearing that Vanille suddenly felt a lot of pain feeling all kinds of emotions, among them was guilt and grief while Akeshi stood quiet, Sazh believed the Fal'Cie chose his son to protect him from the Pulse l'Cie that infiltrated the plant. PSICOM took him into custody and they weren't able to tell what his focus was, after that Dajh started showing an ability to detect things from Pulse. They found out that he was the one that detected the Pulse Fal'Cie at the Bodhum Vestige that lead for the Sanctum to initiate the Purge. Vanille assured it that it wasn't his son's fault that caused the Purge and the afro haired man concluded it was the l'Cie that broke through the energy plant.
Sazh concluded if his focus was to detect the Pulse Fal'Cie from the Vestige then he would already become crystal, but on the other hand if it is to take out any Pulse l'Cie then he will gladly die before his son becomes a Cie'th. Vanille also understood Akeshi as the dark haired teen told her why she didn't like her she was too trusting she doesn't like to trust people too much like she has been experienced something unpleasant. The dark haired teen has managed to reveal that she was looking for someone precious to her which made Vanille happy that she has decided to share something with them. After making their way through different types of monsters they finally reached the station where they will take transport to Nautilus.
After getting inside at the station from a sudden rain Vanille asked Sazh if he hated Pulse and his answer was obvious after everything they have been through for being Pulse l'Cie. Still feeling pain for unknown reasons the red haired girl kept, a fake smile acting like nothing was bothering her trying to forget it, she asked Akeshi what she thought about her blond hair which she was obviously lying about her hair color. Answering unsure of herself she figured out that the teen is actually blind shocking Sazh and he pointed that she was just like their other companion Seiryu. Hearing his name Akeshi went completely emotional asking the two l'Cie his whereabouts, the most shocking thing they learned on this day that Akeshi turns out to be Seiryu's younger sister who has been looking for him for a while.
In another part in the Cavalry's ship the Lindblum commander Cid Raines called Snow and Fang telling them that they will be heading to Palumpolum to look for one of the group of l'Cie's that according to their reports are coming to said city. While secretly Raines is already carrying out a secret investigation on Sanctum's Primarch Garanth Dysley the information of said investigation still remains unknown.
The story resumes….
(Scene change time skip)
(Location: Palumpolum inner rim Cocoon)
The populated city was now being infiltrated by dozens of sky fleet ships, each were landing while there were more of the PSICOM units arriving. It was an entire army battalion like they were actually going to war, to the military organization it felt that way. This was a code red level A emergency their main priority was to secure all civilians and every single road of the city, soon Palumpolum was filled with all kinds of militarized units. From soldiers to mechs even some of their strongest secret weapons have been dispatch to deal with this huge threat, which it was considered a real danger to the safety of the people of Cocoon. It was none other to take care of the group of l'Cie they have received reports from a couple of days ago, it wasn't long before they have made a move to apprehend the enemy. They didn't have a choice whether they will bring the Pulse l'Cie dead or alive they were a high level threat and they were instructed to use extreme caution against them.
"Attention all units!" a voice was heard through a microphone communicator" this is director Rosch, PSICOM division Cocoon it's caught in the grip of the Pulse-born terror. If we allow l'Cie activity to continue panic will rip our world apart the peace and stability we have fought at hand to maintain will be nothing but a memory. Pulse l'Cie threaten our way of life, they must be eliminated there can be no hesitation that is all...!"
In one of the small floating ships stood a man with silver hair in his late twenties wearing a military uniform, his appearance obviously made him of high rank among PSICOM. Director Rosh has given his message to all the units that had ascended upon Palumpolum any member of the military division understood his orders well. To hunt and kill the Pulse l'Cie with no exception, letting them escape was out of the question. These were the times where his skills as leader will finally be proven everything that he has study at the military academy will be put to the test failure were not an option to him or to anyone from PSICOM. Next to him stood an official who took his microphone and a small round machine hovering around him, it was probably a security camera recording everything that was happening.
"If we fall, our citizens will pay the price."
(Scene change)
(Location: Palumpolum the Metrostile transport station lower district)
The cargo area of the city was already filled with PSICOM security different groups of corps tranquifex and pacifex and soldiers from the Guardian force as well were already patrolling the section, there were also their transport vehicles stationed all over the perimeter. Not too far from the group of the military division stood the train that gives the citizens the transport to different cities in Cocoon, among them the capital and the heart of the Sanctum Eden. They have taken positions guarding every corner around the area making sure it was secure the security meant business that no l'Cie will be crossing this place alive.
"Task force reporting" said a GC soldier.
"Begin operations immediately" replied a PSICOM officer.
"Sir!"
Hiding behind a large steel platform stood Lightning watching from the small corner at the group of hostile forces that were eagerly waiting their arrival, to give them a warm welcome. Hope was on one knee joining the pink haired soldier in the watch unlike the former GC soldier he was looking very determined than ever. It happened since he created operation Nora the plan that consisted in fighting the Sanctum and Snow all for revenge nothing was going to stop him from fulfilling his goal he had the power to fulfill it. Although his had some second thoughts after listening to Seiryu before they arrived at his home town, the drastic consequences for taking revenge the price was too high to pay. He didn't care his determination and hatred for the tall blond was enough to overcome any of his doubts he has made up his mind.
Seiryu was next to the silver haired teen using his hearing obviously due to the absence of his eyes. He heard so many footsteps they were definitely a lot of unwanted guests, in addition he could feel more presence. He wasn't surprised thought he knew that it wasn't going to be easy to arrive at Palumpolum without encountering some PSICOM units the military division has been searching nonstop for them. In the back of his mind he wished that Sazh and Vanille were safe without experience this problem they were currently in, he also wish his precious sister was safe as well. He erased the thought now it wasn't the time to be worrying about her, he knew she will be all right she could take care of herself.
"There are more of them than I anticipated…."
"Bigger threat means bigger manpower PSICOM is taking this very seriously" replied Lightning.
"Indeed."
"We can make it, get to the train station and board the train to Eden" Hope spotted their ticker out of the city not too far from where they were.
"You think it still running?" asked the pink haired soldier.
"Well if it isn't, we'll make it run."
"That's quite reckless even for me or Light" Seiryu reminded that and the former soldier had thought of reckless ideas before.
"Or even Snow for the matter…."
"Then punch straight into the heart of the Sanctum?" asked Lightning.
"Well that is the kind of plan you had in mind in the first place isn't that right Light?" said the drifter.
She stood quiet looking at the teen before looking ahead seeing the group of soldiers assembling concern was hidden in her features" now you're thinking like a Pulse l'Cie."
"That's because he is a Pulse l'Cie" Seiryu added mentally.
"Well, this is Operation Nora. It's not just Snow I'm after the Sanctum's got to pay too."
She stood quiet in thought a million things were running in her head she took a glance at the blind drifter, maybe he was able to tell how she was feeling right now.
Hope took her hand in a demanding way making sure to remind her of their mission" hey, you're the one who said that we had to fight. Every minute we waste, we're tempting fate" he let go of her hand.
"You won't be able to fulfill Operation Nora if you're dead."
"What?" the teen looked at Seiryu followed by Lightning.
"If you keep thinking this recklessly you will surely meet that fate, since you were kind enough to bring it into topic. I apologized Hope but we can't go to Eden not under these conditions."
"But we-"
He cut him off" do you seriously believe PSICOM will let us board the train and escape with our lives, it won't be that easy."
"I know that but all we have to do is find a way to sneak pass them and make the train run."
"Easier said than done, unfortunately it won't happen we won't be leaving to Eden any time soon."
"Seiryu's right Hope this situation has become more drastic PSICOM has already secured every corner on Palumpolum and they have probably called for a protocol to have the city under lockdown. Meaning no citizen can't leave the city any public transportation out of the city will be close and shut down for security measurements so that no one leaves especially us, that also includes the train."
The silver haired teen lowered his gaze in deep thought he hated to admit it but they were right. They won't be heading to the capital of Cocoon any time soon with how tightly secured PSICOM has this city, his revenge on the Sanctum will have to wait for now. The only thing he could do is focus his revenge on his second target Snow, until the right time comes to focus again on the military organization.
"The wise choice to do for us right now is to cross through the city and meet your father" said the drifter.
The teen stood in thought hearing that" my dad….?"
The pink haired soldier nodded" we're going to find him so that you tell him about your mother, remember what we talked about."
"I do…."
"First we'll find Hope's father, after that we can concentrate of how we will get to Eden" said Seiryu.
Hope gave a sigh no choice but to listen to the two" all right I know a way to travel through the city, remember what I said I know all the shortcuts here. There's some underground tunnels not far from here I used to play in them when I was a kid no one uses the entrance anymore, so even the army doesn't know about it. But I know where it is we can sneak in under their noses."
The blind drifter smiled" now you're thinking rationally, very clever to use the knowledge of your childhood to sneak into the tunnels, very well then."
Lightning gave a small smile agreeing with the drifter" sounds good…."
"Great, here we go" replied the teen excited.
They started moving carefully they couldn't risk getting caught by the military, slowly and swiftly they got behind another steel crate. Looking at what they were up against it looked like they were outmatch and outnumber by the large amount of PSICOM units it won't be easy passing through the tight security city. Both Lightning and Seiryu had realized how important Hope has become to the mission with him been born on Palumpolum he knew everything about the city, like he mentioned he knew all the shortcuts to get in order to get to safety. The silver haired teen was the key to their survival here it wouldn't hurt to put their trust in him, the drifter didn't minded as for the pink haired soldier she probably didn't minded either.
"Huh no more rivalries now" she said looking ahead recognizing well some of the soldiers" PSICOM's brought in the Guardian Corps."
"The Guardian Corps duty is to protect civilians if I'm not mistaken, they were called in to obviously help secure any citizens from the supposed Pulse l'Cie threat" said the blind drifter.
The former GC soldier nodded" but if they do encounter enemies they won't hesitate to attack, especially when it comes to protect a civilian in danger…."
"Are you feeling certain about this Light fighting your own comrades?"
"Just because they are from the Guardian Corps it doesn't necessary mean they're all my friends or companions, there are very few people among the division I would consider to be my friend. If we fight them then I won't show any mercy, right now everyone from the military is our enemy."
Seiryu nodded, she was clear about this" I see then…."
Hope looked at a corner not too far from their location" okay, there's an old drainage pipe we can use it to avoid not been seen. The tunnel entrance is a little further up."
"Time to head out then" said the drifter.
They resumed moving carefully reaching a corner there were two Corps tranquifex, lucky for them they had their backs turn. It was the perfect chance to attack Lightning attacked both of them staggering them while Hope used fira on them. Seiryu was the last one lifting one in the air killing him and the pink haired soldier lifted the other one, both soldiers were killed. The blind drifter and the former GC soldier knew what they had to do, they couldn't leave their bodies because others might find them alerting the other units and their cover might get blown. They grabbed both bodies and placed them in a secure hiding place, which it was the closest one to their location behind one of the large steel crates.
"Follow me" Hope said deciding to take the lead.
"He's already acting like a leader" thought Lightning not showing if she was happy or the other.
"Perhaps it's the right thing to do, Hope does know this city well" replied Seiryu.
She nodded but couldn't help but the feel the irony she was usually the one who will always take the lead as her past experience from being a sergeant from the Guardian Corps. She was the soldier ready for battle that will face anything without showing any fear or remorse, now it seems the roles has shifted. Did it really surprised her after witnessing that he has made his mind going with Operation Nora, it seemed Seiryu's wise words hasn't made him change his opinion of the matter to seek revenge for his mother on Snow.
"Guess we're fighting" replied the silver haired teen understanding that they didn't had a choice but to fight the military units.
"We won't be able to avoid all the battles" said the blind drifter.
He nodded as he looked at their destination" the way to the tunnel is over there."
They carefully moved ahead stopping in their tracks, spotting three more Corps tranquiflex. They waited for them to move further until they were able to catch them from behind, and they have succeeded. Lightning attacked all three of them followed by using blitz twice, which two of the soldier got staggered. Seiryu staggered the third one as he lifted him in the air with a couple of strikes he was down for the count. Hope used fira on the other two leading for the pink haired soldier to used ravage, killing them both. Once again they started carrying the dead bodies of the soldiers to a safe spot where they won't be find by other units, they wanted to keep their cover as it is.
"So far so good" thought the former soldier glad that they haven't been spotted yet.
"There, that will lead us to the tunnel" the teen pointed to the drainage pipe that had a large crack for them to get inside.
They entered the pipe and walked until reaching an end, leaving they spotted another Corps tranquiflex. Unfortunately for the trio the soldier has spotted them and before he reached for his communicator to contact reinforcements he was killed by a sudden strike from Seiryu. Lightning and Hope we're in awe at the sight, they knew the drifter was fast but this was the first time they had seen him moving at such speed. He sheathed his sword and carried the fallen body putting in it back into the drainage pipe hiding it.
"Seiryu….?" The teen said.
"I apologize but we can't afford to get spotted, it will get complicated if it does."
"It's for the best to stay un noticed we can move in swiftly like we've been doing and we have the element of surprise too" replied Lightning.
"There's more of them" Hope spotted three more of the soldiers next to their position they haven't been spotted yet due that they were looking the opposite way.
They didn't care if they will get spotted by them they needed to cross this area to move on ahead. They have engage them in battle while Hope casted Libra thinking ahead of the fight. He found out they are weak against lightning elemental magic so he casted enthunder on his two companions making their weapons covered with the element. The Corps tranquilex use manadrive watera hitting Seiryu but he wasn't hurt by the attack, both him and Lightning has charged at them slashing them while using blitz the silver haired teen joined in the assault casting thunder. The blind drifter and former soldier have taken two of them while Hope managed to stagger the third with thunder, it fell moments later.
They climbed a small hill that reached to a pair of stair leading up followed by another set of stairs. The silver haired teen has taken the lead again remembering the city like the back of his hand he remembered all the shortcuts and paths to get to his home. Although he was hesitant in returning to his home not wanting to see his father but there was no chance to run away from this if he wanted to go through with operation Nora. This will be another test to overcome in order to get to his goals, the Sanctum in Eden and Snow.
"Watch my back!" he looked at his two companions behind him.
They got alarmed as they were spotted by a Velocycle that charged at them ready for battle. The trio took their respective weapons while Lightning casted Libra on their new foe, she wasn't please with the results she got.
"Falco Velocycle it deals high damage potential but as well as devastating physical attacks, it's weak against lightning magic it's susceptible to debrave by seventy percent."
"That's enough for me" Seiryu said knowing what to do.
"Defense is our best chance" replied Hope.
The silver haired teen cast protect and shell followed by enthunder giving the power of lightning on their weapons. Seiryu immediately casted debrave on the vehicle followed by imperil weakening it was the best strategy for such a strong opponent, knowing its weakness gave them an even bigger advantage. The Falco velocycle fired its machines guns hitting Hope but Lightning casted cure healing the teen, the former GC soldier used a combination of thunder with sparkstrike. Hope aided her with thunder and Seiryu joined in with ruin and blitz even if they were dealing more damage than usual the military vehicle was still not stagger. The militarized unit kept firing its weapons but it wasn't dealing any damage to the party since it was under the effect of debrave thanks to the blind drifter.
Things change when the velocycle got serious it was about to fire it's gatling gun attack, it was charging for the powerful attack even if it was still been high damage by the trio's assault. The vehicle has chosen its target for its devastating attack as it pointed its machine guns towards Hope who was still firing thunder it fired the endless barrage. The silver haired l'Cie cried in pain as his body was pierced by dozens of bullets even with the protect spell activated he was wounded badly he fell to the ground getting unconscious. Both of his companions were unaware and they were shocked especially Lightning, from her position she thought that he was worst than just unconscious.
"Hope!"
The pink haired soldier went to the teen's side seeing him like this was making her angry. She growled as she immediately casted cure on her fallen comrade, it showed how much of a failure she is. First she couldn't protect her sister Serah and now Hope everything in her life has to be mess up and screw, her life is suppose to be failure after failure mistake after mistake. She kept up the healing spell hoping he'll be fine, that his life was in no serious danger. She would never forgive herself if he dies she won't be able to live with herself if she loses someone important to her.
"Am I really this useless….?"
"Light get a hold of yourself Hope is fine trust me!" Seiryu said as he slashed the velocycle he wasn't happy that the teen got hurt by the vehicle.
She nodded erasing all negative thoughts from her head, she smiled as she saw the teen with his eyes open he was no longer hurt thanks to the cure spell" Hope….?"
"Light….I'm okay."
"Don't move lie back and rest, let me and Seiryu handle the velocycle."
"But I can still fight" argued the teen.
"Take a break…."
She glared at the velocycle as she fired thunder and sparkstrike while the drifter performed a strong curve slash damaging the vehicle that it got staggered. Both went all out on the military unit hitting it with both physical and magical attacks it wasn't long before it was finally defeated, ending in an explosion. They sheathed their weapons ready to move out because the explosion from the vehicle will definitely bring attention to other PSICOM units around.
"Are you all right Hope?" asked the blind drifter.
"I'm fine but I could have help you fight."
"You just got hit by heavy fire, you were not all right" Lightning replied with a frown making it a little difficult to hide her tone of concern.
"You healed me so I was fine I'm not going to be beaten that easily, I'm not giving up I have to fulfill operation Nora."
"If you want to have your revenge then you must keep a clear head, you must know the limits of your body. Even if you can take more damage than a human for being an l'Cie it doesn't mean you will be a hundred percent in full strength when you get heal. Don't forget it's better to make rational decisions rather than reckless ones."
"Time to move" said the pink haired soldier she was in thought at the teen's words.
They resumed walking as they finally arrived at the entrance to the tunnel. The first thing they saw was a wide tunnel leading to another path hopefully they will be safe without encountering anymore units from PSICOM. In another entrance they saw a large complex with different floating platforms, the trio jump landing in one of the small paths that will eventually lead to one of the platforms. Lightning was starting to get a little concern the shortcut they have taken have indeed help them cross the city so far, it would definitely be bad news if their pursuers know about it.
"I think we made it past all the guards" replied the silver haired teen.
"We can't ever be too sure let's not drop our guard yet" said Seiryu.
He nodded as he looked at the pink haired soldier it seemed he was able to read her mind" don't worry it will be fine only kids like me know about the entrance."
"They'll find it they'll call in a team and canvass the whole tunnel system" she replied.
"Then we'd better hurry."
"PSICOM can be arrogant and proud I doubt they will start asking kids from Hope's age about the structure of the city, but it never hurts to be cautious I agreed."
The former GC soldier nodded walking with her two companions gazing at the giant orange colored spinning thing, it had the shape of a butterfly" so where's this thing come out anyway?"
"Well, it….it, I don't really know for sure."
"I believe that's the Fal'Cie Carbuncle" replied the drifter.
"Carbuncle?" Hope was staring at him along with the pink haired soldier.
"It's the Sanctum Fal'Cie in charge with the city's food production and the regulation of electricity and water, to put it simple it's the heart of Palumpolum's survival without Carbuncle the people won't be able to survive."
"I didn't know that" the teen was shocked.
"Didn't they teach you that at school?"
The silver haired teen blushed a little remembering the times he went to Palumpolum's high school" well I kind of….sleep through some of the classes."
"Well today I have shared some knowledge about your hometown to you."
"Thanks professor Seiryu" he chuckle.
"Now there's no need to call me that" the blind drifter felt a little embarrassed.
"So this Fal'Cie is Palumpolum's life source it's hard to believe that the people depend on this thing to keep their city running and keep them alive?" said Lightning.
"That is correct you are not fond of Fal'Cie" said the drifter.
"I have every right to hate them" her tone was harsh.
He nodded he understood her after everything that has happened including her sister becoming a slave of the Fal'Cie and turned to crystal but he was in thought how far her hatred for the Fal'Cie will change her or drive her to such lengths like infiltrating and attacking Cocoon's capital Eden. They resumed walking ahead while the teen was taking the lead he had a feeling where to go since he remembers coming to this part of the city before.
"Automated nutriculture, I think I remember learning about it in school."
Seiryu chuckle" you're using your knowledge again that's good, at least you didn't sleep in when you learned that."
"I didn't slack off that much at class honest…."
They reached a dead end and next to them stood an oval orange colored switch, Hope knew what it was. He pressed it making it go around a couple of times and suddenly a large platform floated heading their location, it stopped at their location. The trio walked towards it and as soon they got on it started moving again it lead them to a floating pathway with monsters obviously, eventually they will fight as they move on. As they walked they were well aware they will encounter more enemies, their eyes were on the monsters ahead they looked like a militarized flan with a white hate that had a blinking red light, and the trio got ready for battle.
Lightning immediately casted Libra on their new foe revealing the information of the monster it was called flanitor it didn't had any specific weaknesses, just that it delivers devastating physical attacks. They were spotted by the two creatures they decided to attack the same target as the former soldier and Seiryu charged at it using blitz and Hope followed using fire, water and thunder. The flanitor was getting beaten badly when they noticed it was been healed by the second flanitor using its rescue ability. They figured out what was the most obvious choice to attack them both at the same time the two warriors changed opponents the drifter went to the other one while the pink haired soldier remained fighting the same one.
Seiryu slashed the flanitor while the other one used rescue but it didn't got a chance to since it was been attacked by Lightning, Hope back them up using aero, water and thunder. When he could the silver haired teen went to the other one and gave his magic support to the blind drifter, they were so quick that they didn't gave the chance for the creatures to heal their injuries completely. Both flanitors were beaten eventually not giving the trio much of a challenge, they sheathed their weapons looking ahead there was more to travel and more enemies to defeat.
"So this is what it looks like down here" said Hope.
"I thought you've been here before" replied Lightning.
"I have come here but I haven't gotten this far ahead because of the monsters, back then I was weakling I didn't stand a chance."
"Let's be careful you two, I can sense a strong monster ahead" said Seiryu.
They nodded taking his advice as they walked ahead, the drifter was right as they spotted a mechanized scale monster, and the creature has spotted initiating another battle. This time it was Hope the one who casted Libra and he didn't like the information of their tough opponent.
"What does it say?" asked the former soldier.
"Not good it's called Lucidon but it's immune to all status alignments except provoke and it employs physical and magical combination attacks."
"So much for trying to use debrave and imperil on it, this foe will be quite troublesome it seems…."
"Incoming!" Lightning saw the creature ready to attack.
Hope has casted protect and shell remembering the information from Libra of its combination attacks while the former GC soldier has taken her Blaze fire saber and Seiryu was next to her with his sword in hand. They already knew what to do they needed to stagger it immediately, they will have to go all out. Lightning charged at it attacking then jumping back using her gun blade to shoot at it, it seemed it didn't even fazed the Lucidon along with the drifter's attacks. The Lucidon fired its Photon burst attack hitting Seiryu which caused Lightning to react quickly and used cure on the wounded drifter, this fight wasn't going to be easy it was that clear. The creature fired another photon burst hitting the drifter again looks like it has chosen Seiryu as its target of hatred, but once again he was healed by both l'Cie.
"I'm not letting it hurt Seiryu again" Lightning glared at the creature with determination, today she was making sure that none of her companions will get hurt not on her watch.
They resumed their barrage but like before they weren't doing too much damage on the Lucidon, it did have a very high defense. Hope fired more magic but it wasn't helping the trio we're starting to get annoyed at this, not to mention it wasn't stagger yet. They prepared when the creature fired another photon burst attack, only difference it has chosen a new target the pink haired soldier shooting at it with her gun blade. The attack was about to hit her but it never happened as Seiryu was quick enough to get in front of her and take the blast for her the sight shocked her so much as well as Hope.
"Seiryu!"
"Got your back!" the teen cast cure on his wounded companion.
The former GC soldier was so upset with the drifter's action how dare he do something so reckless, the attack was meant for her and he jumps right in to take it for her. She made a mental note to give him a piece of her mind later but for now defeating the Lucidon was more important, she fired a couple of spells but they didn't do much damage. She was well aware that the best way to beat it was to stagger it, staggered monsters will always lowered their defenses and easier to beat also they can be lifted to the air for higher damage rate. An idea has occurred her it was their only shot in beating their tough opponent it was worth the try which she thought it was the only way.
"Seiryu use that attack that you defeat them with one single strike."
The blind drifter knew what she was talking about he nodded" I see that seems to be our only choice…."
He sheathed his sword while the Lucidon was about to fire another photon burst, but it never happened. The drifter vanished slashing it with the powerful deadly strike it was enough to finally stagger it. Lightning knew that the fight was over the moment it got staggered, because now they will go all out giving a lot of damage. The pink haired soldier lifted the lizard looking creature into the air slashing it with her weapon Hope aided her with fira, blizzard and thunder. Seiryu joined her too as she slashed keeping the creature in the airborne, soon the Lucidon was finally defeated. The party sighed in relief happy that the battle was over, they sheathed their weapon.
Lightning can finally give the drifter a piece of her mind as she walked to him and punched his shoulder a little harder than the last time she did back at the Gapra Whitewood" you idiot what were you thinking taking that attack for me?"
"I'm confused Light I believe you're supposed to be feeling grateful that I saved your life."
She put her hands on her hip her expression meant business" no I'm upset because what you did was stupid."
"So it would have been better if you got hit by the attack?"
"Yes!" she shouted in annoyance.
"I apologize but I wasn't going to let that happen" his tone was serious he wasn't thinking of letting one of his friends get hurt.
"Hphm" she crossed her arms turning her back to him, never realizing that her cheeks were flushed.
Hope stood quiet watching the whole thing he couldn't help but smile. It looked kind of amusing to see a former GC sergeant getting upset at someone for saving her life and arguing that she should have been the one to get hit, it sounded like she was being very stubborn about it. Then again Lightning was proud and stubborn as hell when she needed it to be, it was part of her personality but watching this little scene unfold it was a bit funny.
She stopped crossing her arms looking at him however her cheeks were still a little flushed" next time if an attack is directed at me, let me get hit by it all right?"
Seiryu had to sweat dropped at her comment.
They continued walking until reaching a circular platform given them a perfect view of Carbuncle which it was still spinning in a moderate speed. It was hard to believe that it looked very defenseless when they could be wrong, Hope was staring at it remembering what the drifter told him he couldn't believe he wouldn't know something so important in the history of his city, he had to blame himself for sleeping at school when the teacher was explaining this.
"That's the city production Fal'Cie…."
Seiryu nodded" Palumpolum's life source."
"But that makes it our enemy being part of the Sanctum and all."
"As Pulse l'Cie, then yes everyone from the Cocoon military sees us as their enemies."
"So….kill him cut off the food supply that'll make us popular" said Lightning.
"You're not serious….?" the drifter was a bit shocked at her comment.
"Nah I think people have enough reasons to hate us don't you?" asked the silver haired teen.
"Yeah, you're probably right hungry people make angry people" said the pink haired soldier.
"Agreed, with our situation it is better not to add anymore fuel to the fire of hatred" replied Seiryu.
They started walking leaving the round platform while the pink haired soldier was staring at the blind drifter she remembered his reaction when she mentioned killing Carbuncle. She was in thought remembering that he was taken back by her comment like he wasn't expecting her to say something like that.
"You really thought I was being serious?" she asked at the dark haired swordsman.
"I admit yes, you do seem to have a personal score with the Fal'Cie and the Sanctum it was expected of me to think the obvious…."
"And you think I will be that delirious to do something like killing a Fal'Cie that is supporting food supply for an entire city?" she raised an eyebrow looking a bit upset.
For some reason the drifter started sweating bullets" well I…."
"Why so serious then?" it was a shame he couldn't see the small grin that has formed on her lips.
It seemed Hope was able to understand the meaning behind her comment as he laughed following her, while Seiryu stood in his place without moving. He was in thought thinking what just have happened it wasn't long before he understood what she was talking about, or more precise what she was trying to do it was actually a joke in Lightning's own way.
"Was she teasing me again?"
They resumed walking ahead they have encounter two flanitor which three against two no contest which side had the advantage. The trio has staggered the creatures in no time, not giving it a chance to either one of them to perform rescue ending the battle rather quickly. They knew speed was the key to win otherwise the flanitor will keep on healing not ending the fight, they sheathed their weapons back. They gazed ahead there was a staircase leading up when they climbed it a large floating platform came towards them, once again took the lead he was looking at Carbuncle.
"Look at us Pulse l'Cie using a Sanctum Fal'Cie to tell where we're going, sort of strange."
"I believe that's not the correct word for it, rather is ironic" replied Seiryu.
"Yeah that's the best word to describe it" Hope gave a sheepish smile.
"Not really" Lightning joined in" we've relied on them our whole lives the food we eat, the light and water it's all from the Fal'Cie. You know I think Cocoon was really built for them…."
"That's a good theory Light" the drifter said his expression seemed to be in deep thought.
"Didn't think it as a theory more like an opinion, but to them the rest of us we're just leeches parasites."
"You think?" replied the silver haired teen" they protect us, nurture us they take care of, well, normal people."
"Indeed one can think that the Fal'Cie needs us as much as we need them" said the blind drifter.
He nodded" they treat us like we're special, almost like….like we're pets!"
"I will take that as a good theory as well" said Seiryu.
The former soldier was shocked after hearing her eyes were wide in realization" like pets…."
She walked a couple of pets staring at Carbuncle she was next to the drifter" to them, we're just pets…."
"That seems like it" replied the blind drifter.
She tightened her fist in anger" that's it, now it makes perfect sense I've been so blind. I was born in a Fal'Cie world raised on a Fal'Cie leash it was the only life I knew how to live…."
"So now you consider yourself a dog of the Fal'Cie?" asked Seiryu.
"Yes just like the rest of our group and the people of Cocoon" she remembered when Anima marked her and the rest of the group at the Vestige" when it was taken from me, I was completely lost. Without a master to follow, my life had no purpose."
"You lived your life according to the Sanctum's ways before you became a Pulse l'Cie, I guess that makes sense it is how everyone lives and follow their lives to the beings that protect them and give them a better life" the dark haired swordsman was in thought.
The pink haired soldier nodded looking at the teen next to her" Hope listen to me, this l'Cie curse it took everything from me my future, my dreams I didn't want to think so I fought instead. As long as I was fighting nothing else was real, I was running away you Hope and Seiryu, you two got swept along with me…."
The blind drifter gave a smile" it seems that she has finally seen the truth good for you Light."
"But Light I don't understand" replied the silver haired teen however the drifter had a pretty good idea what she meant.
She looked at him and her eyes we're different like she was a whole new person" operation Nora is over."
"What?"
"I…."
"No!" he shouted upset.
"Hope listen to me-"
"No you told me to fight!"
"I made a mistake!"
"I have made so many…."
He growled as he looked at the dark haired swordsman" Seiryu tell her that's she's wrong, you want me to have revenge you support operation Nora right?"
Lightning looked at him she needed his support she won't be able to do this without him, especially when the teen has been influence on the drifter too. His opinion matter a lot that's why she expected he will agree with her after telling him about her revenge and his intentions for following the youth in his path to have vengeance. She could still remember when she killed the murderer of her parents it has been haunting her ever since along with the pain she suffered, no she couldn't let Hope experience the same pain too. If he didn't then she will lose any chances of changing him and guiding him to the right path, she couldn't lose him to revenge.
"Seiryu tell her!" the teen was staring at him waiting for his reply.
The blind drifter lowered his gaze" yes and no."
"What kind of answer is that?"
"Exactly how you heard it, I want you to have revenge and I also don't want you to."
"You're not making any sense!"
"But I am I have been supporting your revenge showing you the good effects that such brings, and I have been telling you the negative effects it possess the causes and consequences that leads for fulfilling it. Remember everything I have told you back at the Gapra Whitewood."
"So you agree with Light?"
"She's doing the right thing in stopping your vengeance. However there's nothing she can do to stop you from making that choice to fulfill it, it is not in her power to stop you or mine."
"Seiryu….?" said Lightning taken a bit back by his comment.
Hope gave a smile" you do want me to have revenge."
"It is not in my place to speak going through with revenge it's completely up to you, it's your choice."
"I know it's up to me and I have made up my mind a long time ago."
"So it seems…."
The silver haired l'Cie took the survival knife Lightning gave him from his pocket" I'm not letting anyone stop me from making operation Nora a success I wish you guys respect my choice."
"I will Hope" replied the drifter.
The former GC soldier felt like everything was lost for the youth and Seiryu was right there was nothing she could do. She can tell him to stop in his revenge but she was powerless to stop him from going through with it because it was the reason why he was still going and traveling with her, for operation Nora. She was the only person to blame she knew it she dragged him into this entire mess it was her fault.
"That knife Light gave you" he started" I have a feeling that it must be very precious to her, she must really trust you if she gave something so dear to her for you."
"I….I guess" his eyes were on the knife while the pink haired soldier was staring at him in thought.
"Then think of it as a symbol of her trust towards you, she believes you will make the right choice when the time comes."
"When the time comes….you mean when we meet Snow again?"
"If we do meet him again then yes, but whatever your choice may be we will support you until you find your resolve keep it."
"That's right I will respect your choice too" Lightning finally replied following the drifter's lead.
"You're not going to abandon me?"
She went to him putting her hands on his shoulders" I won't abandon you….I won't."
"Neither am I" replied Seiryu with a smile.
"Thanks but I just can't throw in the towel."
"Light tried but she knows she can't, it is wise to let you make your own decision."
They finally continued walking climbing a couple of stairs where three flanitors were waiting for them, they spotted them getting into cattle while the trio took their weapons. The numbers we're even but Seiryu chose to be safe casting debrave on three flanitors while Lightning used blitz twice hitting all three of them and Hope used fira and water. The creatures attacked with their tentacles but they did little damage to the party thanks to debrave, the three monsters were getting beaten badly. It got annoying as they started performing rescue healing the each other they needed to attack now or they will never win the fight. Suddenly casted another debuff spell which at first he didn't know what it was until he got his answer later.
One of the flanitors got engulf in many blue circles for some reason it was taking it longer to do his rescue technique and its reactions were slower than normal. He followed casting the same spell on the other two making them act, the same it took them longer to use rescue unable to heal each other. It was enough for Lightning to kill one of them using blitz while the second flanitor was staggered by Hope's magic, it was followed send to the air by the blind drifter killing it. The third one was beaten with a combination of blitz and ruin by the pink haired soldier and the drifter, thanks to his debuff spell they won another battle that became easy for the party.
"What just happened to them I mean they couldn't do their healing spell anymore?" asked Hope.
"It's not that they couldn't it seemed like it was taking them longer to use it" replied Lightning.
"That's because their reactions to perform their attacks or healing technique was slower than regular, which must be the new spell I learned which is slow."
"That's great we're going to need that spell in the upcoming fights" said the silver haired teen.
Resuming their walking they reached a long corridor with a couple of stairs while Hope was in deep thought. Remembering what Seiryu just told him he knew he has made his choice but what if they weren't longer focusing on their enemies, remembering of the horrible fate placed on them. The life of an l'Cie was not a happy one only death or crystallized forever were the choices, or becoming a monstrous Cie'th. None of the choices were pleasant he wanted to live as a normal person just like he was before this entire mess started how he wished to have the ability to change the past but it was only wishful thinking from his part.
He finally stopped" so what do we do now?"
She turned to him not knowing what to say while Seiryu knew" I believe we're going to meet your father."
"And then what, we're l'Cie ticking time bombs enemies of Cocoon. If we can't follow the plan do we just lay down and die?"
"With Light's revelation of her life I doubt she's no longer planning in going to Eden, at least for now" thought the blind drifter.
"I didn't mean we should give up" replied Lightning.
"Then what battles do we fight and against who tell me that?"
Seiryu knew she wasn't going to answer because she probably didn't know the answer right now she was unsure if they should continue in fighting the Sanctum like she originally planned or wait for them to become Cie'th.
"I don't know yet…."
"You don't know yet?"
"That's right I don't know yet, but I do now that we can't lose hope."
The youth sighed as he went and got seated on the stairs" hope….there is no hope not for l'Cie."
"There's you…."
"It's just a name, not who I am."
"Are you certain?" Seiryu made both turned to him" perhaps you were named base on the virtue hope because your family believe that you will be fill by it, or perhaps you will bring them said word."
The silver haired teen gave a sad smile thinking about his mother" she was the one that named me hope, because every time it reminded her that we should never give up…."
"Always have hope" said the drifter he knew he was obviously talking about his mother.
"But that's not me at all."
The pink haired soldier ran a hand through her hair turning her back" I was just like you…."
She decided to tell him about her parents but not everything she was in no mood to remember her terrible past Seiryu was the only one she has told him everything" my parents died I had to be strong for Serah so I thought I needed to forget about my past and I became Lightning. I thought that by changing my name I could change who I was….I was young."
She remembered what the drifter told her about her alter ego and he was right" Lightning it flashes bright then fades away, it can't protect it only destroys…."
She got seated on the stairs next to Hope while the drifter was standing listening to the conversation" Serah tried to tell me but I wouldn't listen."
"Guilty because she believes she wasn't strong enough to protect her sister, she believes she has failed her for not bringing her happiness Light we're so much alike more than I anticipated" thought Seiryu.
Suddenly a flash of light hit Lightning and she thought she was seeing Serah in front of her calling to her. She reacted getting up meeting her with wide eyes then it came back to haunt her, the last words she told her before she left to the Vestige. It brought back the pain and guilt she felt when she found out she was telling her the truth and instead of supporting her and protecting her she did the opposite. She shunned her away like she was disgusted with her, for thinking that it was all just a stupid excuse so she could marry Snow. It seemed the tall blond wasn't as stupid as she thought he was, after all he was the person that chose to stay by her side and care for her when he knew she was an l'Cie. He did what she should have done, as her older sister she was supposed to be the first to support her.
The person the imaginary Serah called her was none other than Snow who came to her and she wasn't surprised, it was too late before she realized she was late to be there for her. Just when she needed her the most she failed her she lets her down, not behaving or showing how a true sister was there for her own blood. Her eyes were filled with sorrow as she saw them smiling ever happily especially Serah it's like she didn't needed her, she looked like she was better off without her. No there was no need for a sister that threatened her she didn't deserved to be by her side, at least in the end she was able to chose someone who would care for her and treat her the right way, unlike her.
"I'm really late I didn't believe her and I threatened her…."
"Light….?" thought the blind drifter.
She chuckle sadly" the only one who believed her was-"
"No don't say his name!" shouted Hope not wanting to hear his name" don't say it brings everything back I keep playing it in my head what happened to her and I see his stupid face and he's smiling how can he be smiling when she's dead…."
"Perhaps a smile is the only way for him to forget the pain" said Seiryu.
"What?"
"Tell me Hope can you put yourself in Snow shoe's can you tell how he must be feeling?"
"I don't know he's probably happy that's how he is always smiling like nothing happened…."
"You're wrong he's probably feeling worst than you. He must be well aware that it was his fault that caused the death of so many innocent people at the Hanging Edge because of his actions, among them Nora's death. How badly he must be feeling knowing it was his entire fault especially when he sees himself as a hero only to remind himself that he's nothing but a failure. The pain he's going through it may be worst than what you're feeling."
"You really believe that?" the teen was upset remembering the time he has traveled with the blond before parting ways from him at Lake Bresha" I have seen him always smiling and acting like no one died never taking things seriously, it's like he acts like a fool all the time."
"I don't think that a fool is someone who would risk staying behind and getting caught by PSICOM for trying to help his fiancée who was crystallized, the right words to say are brave and loyal. Even when she was turned to crystal Snow remained loyal to Serah, I don't see his behavior and attitude fit for someone who deserves to die for the sake of revenge don't you think so?"
He growled taking Lightning by surprise at his behavior" it's not that easy I know what you're trying to do. It may be easy for you not to think about revenge but it's not for me, I don't know how you did it Seiryu….?"
The drifter took a deep breath" it wasn't easy I'm well aware of that, no matter how much it may hurt all I can do is not to think about it and even till this day it still lingers inside. The pain, the anger, their screams it still there and I'm afraid it will never go away it will always remain like a nightmare that will never end. I have thought about it but it won't help me now it won't solve anything, my parents won't be back they're already dead my family was broken apart forever…."
Lightning and Hope stood in deep thought the teen felt bad for bringing the topic of revenge on his side. Both knew it was very delicate to talk about his past after what happened to his parents, it was never easy to talk about something so tragic that change your life forever. Maybe it was best not to bring any more painful topics it seem the only thing the trio had in common is that both have been tempted to take vengeance on the murder of their family.
"It's okay Seiryu you don't have to say another word about your past" said Lightning.
"It's all right I feel like I must, I trust the two of you. I told you about my parents dying when I was twelve and all I did was run away…."
"What….?" Hope replied as both he and the pink haired soldier stood listening to his story.
He finally got seated on the stairs with them next to Lightning" that's what I was told to do when the murderer came, my father told me to leave and never return he couldn't bear me and Akeshi getting kill he knew that one way or the other we will probably die so he wanted us to be safe from sharing his and my mother's fate."
"Akeshi….?" The former soldier didn't know who he was talking about.
"Who's that?" replied the teen.
He smiled thinking about her" she's my younger sister, when my parents died I was twelve and she was only five. After their deaths I took her with me and we started traveling together, I looked after her always protecting her but I also wanted her to defend herself so I took her under my wing and taught her how to fight. For ten years we've been traveling together, however under some circumstances we had to separate and take different paths it's been two months since then I have been looking for her ever since…."
"You have to be strong for her so you taught her to fight" Lightning said in a whisper.
He nodded" I know she can take care of herself and I know wherever she is she's safe she's strong enough to survive on her own. But I still can't help it I want to be by her side it is my duty as her older brother to be there for her I know that she must be missing me and she's probably looking for me more than myself."
"Seiryu….?" The former GC soldier hasn't taken her eyes off of him.
"So that's what you meant about understanding the bond between siblings" Hope remembered what he told him at the Vile Peaks.
"Precisely I understand the kind of strength that bond has with the one I share with Akeshi, so you see Light I understand what you have gone through with taking care of Serah. I am well aware of the pain you have been through living your life with looking after your only family."
The pink haired lowered her gaze in deep thought a small smile has across her features. Probably she was happy or grateful to have met someone who understands what she has gone through, hearing that she felt like her respect and trust for the blind drifter has increased. To have someone who has shared the same fate as her it made her feel like she wasn't alone completely, it felt like she had a kindred spirit and it felt great. She was still smiling at him and it was that same fond smile she gave him back at the Gapra Whitewood when he told her to stay who she is as a soldier.
Hope stood in thought as he felt sorry for the drifter after what he's been through it was no wonder why he understood about the bond of brothers. Listening to his story he wish what would it be to have a brother or a sister but that would never happen after the death of his mother, in addition of hostility towards his father he won't be having a sibling after all. These were the times that made him wonder that Lightning and Seiryu were lucky to have siblings, minus the death of their parents but he understood some of their pain with losing a family member.
"It must have been hard to take care of your little sister all alone when you were younger than me" replied the silver haired youth.
"It was but it wasn't a matter of can or can't there are some things you just do, isn't that right Light?"
The pink haired soldier gave a small smile copying her quote to Hope" right family comes first above everything else…."
"Seiryu about Akeshi….is she well…."
The drifter gave a smile at Hope's nervous tone" are you trying to ask me if she's blind like me?"
"Yeah I hope you're not offended about it."
"I'm not and to answer your question yes she is, just like me we we're both born blind."
"Oh I see" the teen felt worst for him not understanding how horrible must be to be brought to the world without seeing.
"Do you think the person that killed your parents is aware that you guys are alive?" asked Lightning.
"I am certain he is and I'm also certain that he hasn't given up in hunting us."
"So he's still looking for you guys even till this day but you said that your parents death was ten years ago, he's been hunting you guys for that long?" replied the youth.
"I'm afraid so luckily we've been traveling for so long that we kept him busy, he has been unable to resume his pursue on us."
"That's why you two separated isn't that right?" asked the former GC sergeant.
"That is correct in order to make his search even harder I thought it was for the best that we separate until it becomes safer to travel together again, it has been two months since we parted ways and yet it feels like an eternity to me not having her by my side…."
The pink haired soldier nodded of course she understood very well what he felt or what he was going through. It has been like two days since Serah was turned into crystal and she became a Pulse l'Cie and every hour felt like a year to her for not having her sister with her, it was pure torture or that she has died and gone to hell to suffer forever not having her little sister.
"Do you think you will find your sister?" asked Hope.
"I haven't given up that I will eventually find her, like Light said we can't give up hope."
Lightning nodded deciding that it was best to go to another topic" listen Hope about Snow…."
The teen nodded getting up" I know, there's nothing I can do about it. I hate knowing that no matter what happens she's not coming back. When I was fighting there was no time thinking about it, it felt good just to give in. But now you start talking about hope…."
"Now that you know that, can you go on with fulfilling operation Nora?" asked the blind drifter.
He didn't replied when he felt his hand being touched by Lightning's hand he gazed up at her realizing that she was right" I'm sorry I messed up…."
"No….it's my fault."
"Actually Light it was Hope's fault."
"What?" replied the youth.
"Seiryu I was the one that convinced him to focus on one goal and erase all of his emotions, revenge that was his goal."
"Perhaps you did, however he became an l'Cie because he chose to go to the Vestige all for revenge to face Snow am I right Hope?"
The silver haired teen lowered his gaze still holding the soldier's hand" yeah it's true…."
"You chose to be in this entire mess on your own Light never made you come with her, she didn't want anyone to accompany her in the first place. If you would have never gone to the Vestige you wouldn't be an l'Cie and you wouldn't be an enemy of Cocoon, by now you could have been with your father at this instant."
Lightning removed her hand from the teen gazing at the drifter" Seiryu….?"
"I apologize Light but I wasn't going to let you take the blame for something that is clearly not your fault, Hope needed to face the truth the same way you realized the truth of your life when you lost your loyalty to the Sanctum."
"It's okay Light I know it was my fault for wanting to chase Snow I had this coming."
"Hope….?"
"We can continue discussing this later how about if we continue our journey we might have a lot to travel before we get to Hope's father location?"
"You're right…."
Resuming their journey they were greeted ahead by three flanitors the battle went like the previous one. Seiryu has weakened the three creatures casting slow, debrave and imperil while Lightning and Hope went all out. During the fight the silver haired l'Cie learned a new spell thundara with their strength constantly increasing with each fight they win, the three flanitors were no match for them. They only managed to harm the trio only a little nothing to worry about, the fight was over before it even started. It was another easy fight without breaking a sweat, heading forward they saw another large floating platform while Lightning activated the control.
They got on and it lead them to another path but this time there was only an elevator that lead to the upper floor, they left the platform heading to the elevator. Hope stopped walking in deep thought remembering the former soldier's words and the drifter's words he stared at his l'Cie brand mark on his right wrist. He honestly didn't know what to do he was so sure and confident that he wants to fulfill operation Nora but after listening to both of his companions, he was starting to have second thoughts. Lightning has made up her mind in not going to Eden but he was still unsure if not taking revenge was the right thing to do.
"What can I do….?"
"Talk to your dad" replied the pink haired soldier making him looked at her.
"What why?"
"Fighting without hope is no way to live….it's just a way to die" she activated the controls to the elevator and the door opened.
"Indeed" said the blind drifter.
"I want you to find the hope that you were named for…."
"Wise words from the former sergeant of the Guardian Corps" Seiryu smiled.
"Staying alive, I can help you with but I can't give you hope. If you go to see your father…."
"Does she seriously believes she can't give hope to someone?" thought the drifter.
Hope touched the locations of his brand hidden by his glove" you think meeting my dad will make anything better he's never listened to a word I've said he's just-he'll never believe all this l'Cie stuff?"
Lightning didn't know how to replied to him what could she do she wasn't any good when it comes to parents. She lost her parents when she was one year younger than the teen, she just didn't know what to answer him. No one said a word as the elevator started moving to the upper level.
"Give him a chance" said Seiryu" give your father a chance when you tell him everything that you've been through, a real father would never turn his back to his own child. He might be worried sick about you."
"But I-"
"For now have some hope, can you give it a chance for once?"
The silver haired teen stood quiet but he managed to give a small nod.
"Good remember that you're not alone we're in this together…."
"Hope" spoke the former soldier" from now on I want you to listen to Seiryu he's been right all along, take his advices to heart it will be a lot better than following my advices…."
"Okay I will…."
"Light…." thought the blind drifter.
The youth looked at the pink haired soldier" Snow believed Serah didn't he?"
She looked at him before looking at nowhere in particular she gave a small smile" yeah…."
It only took a couple of minutes for the elevator to reach the top floor and as soon as it did Seiryu was feeling uncomfortable, restless was probably the right word to describe. It was the same feeling he had when he went to the flower shop in Bodhum the second time, remembering that the flower sales man was being blackmail by two PSICOM soldiers. However this feeling he was having was bigger and stronger than the previous one which made him worry even more, he reached for the handle of his sword tightening it.
"Seiryu….?" Hope saw him looking tense.
"Stay on your guard you two I have a bad feeling about this."
The elevator's door opened they were finally back on the surface they looked around it seemed they were in the middle of a public square it was very wide. Seiryu's bad feeling got worse as he knew something was not right, something bad was going to happy he had a big hunch about it. His right hand was still gripping tightly the handle of his sword he had to do that or he will be feeling uneasy, while Lightning and Hope were still looking around.
The former soldier walked ahead as she was staring at large screen hearing a, news broadcast report, Hope followed while the drifter remained in his place.
"In a recently convened conference emergency conference, the Sanctum announced that the fugitive l'Cie has been located. The military plans to apprehend the l'Cie and carry out a public execution…."
"This is not good" thought Seiryu.
Suddenly the screen was giving a view of a familiar location as the report resumed" these images coming to you live from the scene in Palumpolum."
Suddenly the screen the same location square was showing the three l'Cie while Seiryu already went to them in attack position.
"It seems they have found us."
"Looks like you were right Seiryu" Hope said.
"It surely becomes annoying whenever I'm right in these things."
Hover cameras have arrived at the scene along with a large group of PSICOM sky fleets, before they realized an army of PSICOM soldiers arrived surrounding the trio in a matter of seconds. It seemed everything was hopeless they had nowhere to run or place to hide the numbers were completely against them. For a moment it felt like time has stopped for them maybe because the fear sink in that they were about to die knowing that they couldn't defeat so many military units, it wasn't the soldiers but the mechs as well. All was lost for them maybe they won't have to worry about fulfilling a focus or becoming Cie'th, they die right here.
Lightning was holding tightly the handle of her gun blade fight was the only thing in her mind even if it was suicidal to take on so many PSICOM units she will be having a death wish fighting all of them. She saw a platform heading towards them with a soldier and a man in a military uniform with silver hair, she recognized the individual from her knowledge of being in the Guardian Corps. He was Officer Yaag Rosh from the PSICOM division she knew about him and she has heard many rumors concerning him, that he was a brilliant strategist it was no wonder he will be given such a promising rank as director of the division. Now she knew that their chances for survival were less than cero with Rosh directing the assault they won't be escaping and they won't be able to win the fight, they were in a tight spot.
Rosh was glaring at the three like a hawk eyeing its prey with a deadly killing intent. It was his mission to ensure protection and safety to the citizens of Cocoon as well as the Sanctum from any threat from Pulse. Now the enemy was standing in front of him the ones who were disrupting the peace of the people, they were nothing but plagues that needed to be eradicated from this world. The chance to do such thing has been given to him as he finally located the enemy he will give them death for the sake of the citizens of Cocoon.
"These are l'Cie, show no mercy these aren't people they're targets."
Seiryu knew there were hundreds PISCOM units surrounding them the odds were impossible to win, fighting all of them was out of the question. He was in thought he might have a chance against them but he couldn't drag his two companions into this he wanted what was best for them. Hope needed to see his father and make the right choice concerning his revenge with Snow and Lightning needed to be reunited with her sister again there was so much store for her, after knowing what kind of person she is. Thinking about himself was the last thing on his mind, he was only thinking about his friends.
"Light Hope you two go now I'll-"
"Don't you dare I'm not leaving you" Lighting said in an anger tone she wasn't letting him take them on not on his own.
She didn't looked at the teen behind her" start running we'll keep 'em busy."
"But I…."
"You survive…."
"Go Hope we'll catch up with you as soon as we can" replied the drifter.
The teen stood in shock watching his two companions who had taken their weapons ready to fight the impossible odds even as l'Cie he knew they didn't stood a chance against so many opponents. He took a couple of steps obeying the former soldier's words trying to hold his tears Seiryu assured him they will see him again but he had a terrible feeling that he might not see them again. Just when he was ready to give up that their lives will end right here an explosion occurred at the upper floor of the town's square, it has taken the attention of the trio.
"What was that?" asked the pink haired soldier.
Seiryu smiled sensing two familiar presences" it seems we might have a chance against them after all…."
The PSICOM soldiers from the upper floor were all getting beaten up while been removed of their automatic rifles by one single individual. The tall blond Snow grinned as he punched another soldier while taking the rifle of another and using it shooting him, but he wasn't alone. Fang came to him shortly not surprise that her new companion was able to take quite a number of the military unit, she looked down at the center spotting more soldiers and the three people they were looking for as part of their mission.
"That's some crowd gonna need a plan."
"Since when have heroes needed plans?" asked Snow with a grin.
From his right hand he shot a powerful frost wave releasing his crystarium he shot it using the rifle shattering it allowing to release his Eidolon. In a blue circle releasing a dozen frozen waves hitting a couple of soldiers, the two Shiva sisters emerged.
"Fang?" the blond handed her the rifle.
He jumped down as the two ice sisters transformed into their gestalt mode, he got on his bike as Fang joined him shortly in the back seat. The bike slide down across the ice slide sculpture created by the Eidolon while the PSICOM soldiers were shooting at them, however the bike was moving faster than their accuracy. The tall beauty fired the rifle hitting some of the soldiers while the trio below was well aware that they were being rescue from their current situation.
"That is one way of making an entrance same old Snow it seems" Seiryu smiled having his reckless companion back again.
"It's him!" shouted Hope spotting the person whom he chose to have his revenge for his mother's death.
Lightning quickly took his hand getting him out of here now it was the perfect time to fight their enemy with the current distraction from the others l'Cie. Seiryu was already way ahead of the pink haired soldier as he has charged at a group killing them all with one strike from his sword. She ran with the youth as she changed her blaze fire saber to gun mode shooting more soldiers breaking through their defenses, she shortly joined the blind drifter on the counter attack.
Snow was still running with his bike from the ice slide while Fang was shooting more soldiers where Rosh was located, she killed one of them. The angry officer ended up punching a nearby hover camera as it was hit by one Fang's rounds making it exploded, the smoke hit the officer while a soldier was giving him cover fire.
"Move take us up!"
Lightning took more soldiers teaming up with Seiryu both have quickly finished them off, both we're gazing around making sure that the coast was clear. The pink haired soldier saw the motorbike landing next to the trio Snow was glad to see his sister in law again the same with Hope and Seiryu.
"Yeah!" he gave a big smile spotting the former soldier" Lighting!"
Fang was smiling but it became wider when she spotted a familiar face" well well we meet again Seiryu."
The drifter smiled hearing her voice" what a coincidence that we have met again Fang."
"You two know each other?" asked Lightning not knowing why she was feeling uncomfortable with their sudden meeting.
"More or less" he replied while the tall beauty smirked at his comment.
She hold her frown as she gazed over at the tall blond and gave a quick glance at Hope who was next to her she knew what she had to do. She has failed him in giving him hope just like she has failed her sister Serah, she was a failure in her eyes not someone to be relying on. She knew it the silver haired teen will be safe it will be Snow, someone who believed her sister and stood by her side until her last moments before becoming crystal. She knew it even if she wouldn't admit it that he was a real hero unlike her she was the antihero, the youth won't be safe with her he might become more corrupted with the idea of revenge if he keeps been with her.
She rudely shoved the teen towards the gang leader as he caught him by surprise, she hold her gun blade in gun mode with both hands" take care of him…."
"Lightning listen to me!" Snow said.
"Get moving!"
"It is Light now" Seiryu corrected the blond telling him about her change of name.
"No you don't understand Serah's all right she'll turn back to normal!"
The drifter smiled hearing that "those are some good news indeed Light really needs to hear…."
Hearing those words coming out of his mouth she wanted to smile but she didn't, she was already destroyed on the inside" take care of Hope!"
"Wait!"
"Hope remember what we talked about, make the right choice" said the blind drifter to the youth who only nodded in return.
"Let's go Seiryu!" called the pink haired soldier.
He started running following her while Fang passed the blond by" and then there were three…."
She left following the two obviously she has decided to join up with them leaving Snow with Hope. But they weren't out of trouble yet as the PSICOM soldiers who weren't dead got back up and a group along with a mech called Orion we're running towards them. He put the silver haired teen on the back seat of his bike as he got on.
"So how've you've been?" he gave his usual cheery smile.
He turned the bike on as he was ready to fight the group of enemies before him" hang on!"
"Fire open fire!" shouted a PSICOM soldier.
He charged at them ramming them with his bike like a bowling ball hitting a group of pins, some of his moves caused Hope to fall off. The soldiers were about to shoot him but the NORA leader charged at them giving them a serious look.
"Take cover I got this one!"
(Scene change)
"You really think you can't give him hope?" asked Seiryu as they were still running.
"I don't want to start a conversation about that."
"You mean you want to avoid it?"
"Yes" her replied was harsh.
He nodded sadly" as you wish, I apologize…."
"Wait for me you have a new member joining your party" Fang said catching up to them.
Lightning only frowned at her presence not knowing why while the drifter was happy to see her again.
(Scene change)
(Location: The Lindblum captain's office above the skies of Cocoon)
Cid was in his office awaiting one of his men to report back to him about the secret investigation he has been looking for a long time, he might finally get some answers now. Everything was going on schedule it has been a couple of minutes since Fang and Snow were dispatched at Palumpolum to rescue the other group of l'Cie hopefully their mission will be a success knowing that their hands were full with the army of PSICOM at said city. He reacted when the door to his office hissed open as a cavalry soldier entered holding something in his left hand.
"Sir!" he gave a salute.
"At ease report…."
"Sir this is the data disc that was taken from all the information on the secret investigation. It has been a while but all our efforts have finally been paid off."
He nodded taking the small disc" has anyone taken a look at it?"
"No sir the content in that disc is classified for your eyes only."
"Good that will be all."
"Sir!" he saluted again before leaving the office.
Once the door closed the cavalry general inserted the disc on his computer as it started typing the information, of course no one has looked at it. The computer was asking for username and password once he typed the necessary information the data from the small disc was revealed to him, he read the information while some of it has really gotten his interest some of it he quite didn't know or understood.
"What is this….operation Eleira?"
He searched through the information reading everything and as he went further his eyes widened in shock at what he just found out.
"The legend is true…."
To be continued
Yeah I know it wasn't as long as previous chapters but I intentionally wanted to make a two part of this so I will get started on that right away. Yes I know that Hope knows about the Fal'Cie Carbuncle I didn't made him like he was dumb on purpose I wanted Seiryu to be the one to clarify the information for him. As for Fang knowing Seiryu that will be explain next chapter and we might finally see some of his secret abilities too. Off topic I want to thank people who has finally started putting this story on their favorite stories list thank you, remember to review and I will see you all next time farewell.
Next time: Resolve