Holy Knight Ninja

by XInsanityXGuiltechXShadowwindX

1000 years ago, the Rokudo Sennin stopped the Juubi. But 300 years before that someone else had brought peace to the land. Through him, 4 Powerful Clans had identical roots. When his descendants were down to no more than 4 known, what's a pair of Hybrids to do?

2. Chapter 2

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Chapter 2

Naruto, Sarutobi and Alma were sleeping in a cave. At least, they should have been.

Naruto was unable to sleep. He walked outside. Alma noticed this and went out to listen to him. "Alma... Jiji doesn't know this, and I can tell that both he and the ANBU are sleeping, so I can really speak my mind now." He sighed.

"Something wrong, Naruto-chan?" She asked, walking next to the edge he was next to.

"Yeah... something nearby is calling me. I don't know what it is, but whatever it is, it's out there, and it wants me." he said. "I... I don't know if I should go after it, or if I should stay with Jiji."

"Hmm... We're near an old village in the Sabasa Region. I forget its name."

"It isn't a place... I think. More like an Object that's calling to me."

Alma looked at him. "That's surprising. Granberia once told me the same thing before she had to switch out her old cleaver for the one she uses today. The one she has now is sentient. Maybe a Sentient sword is nearby and wants you?"

"Maybe." Naruto admitted. He checked the others and sighed. "I don't just have Sylph with me. I've got all four that stuck with Luka. This absolutely cannot be let out. You already let him know about Sylph, which I find myself taking traits from easily. First time we met... Sylph practically screamed in joy that I was a Natural Wind element."

"Ah... No surprise there, I guess. Which one are you working with first?"

"Undine. Still trying to get the Serene Mind state without using her powers. It's not easy. At least, not to the level she wants."

"I see. I was told it took Luka a good amount of time to be able to use that state in a weakened version. He had no true alignment. I think it comes with him being part Angel." Alma admitted.

An ANBU woke up, but stayed still. "The state of Serene Mind is not easy to accomplish, but all Warriors do so after some time. The Ninja of today use a much more simplified version, but it is not to the same effectiveness, or even to the same level. What they really do is wait for a disturbance, instead of following the flow. Oddly enough those with Wind Chakra have the easiest time to learn that method. Want some advice?"

"Please."

"Well, the flow is hard to describe. I don't know if you've felt your own Chakra, so that's not exactly a good method to find out. But it's a good example." Alma put a hand on the ground next to her. "Everything has an energy flow. The state of Serene Mind is not an easy thing to accomplish because of the nature of the flow. The flow is not just Water, or even Wind. The flow is in everything. It is everywhere. Even Chakra Sensors aren't good enough to feel the flow without knowing about it. The flow is like the Chakra of the Planet, I guess."

Naruto looked at her. "So..."

"Ah. Here's an example. Take a puddle. When you throw in a pebble, what happens to the puddle?"

"It moves for the pebble?"

"Close." Alma replied. "In this case the Puddle is the flow. The pebble is someone moving inside the flow. By listening to the flow, you are listening to what the Puddle is doing. The movements of the pebble, the edges of the puddle, and even what it will do. Serene Mind will put you as part of the flow. With it, you won't need to see anything physically. The Flow will guide you." She got up, and walked a bit away before facing him. "Get up. Try to access the flow."

"I can't. I've been trying for 6 months, and I've had no luck." Naruto said.

"Wind Elements learn best by doing. A small explanation followed by real-time application. That is how you will learn to access it." She pulled out a blindfold and tossed it to him. "Put that around your eyes. It will help you. If you don't find the flow, you'll end up hurting. Badly."

He put it on, and made sure he can't see. "Clear your mind. And wait."

Naruto did that, like he was trained to. Undine approved, but he hadn't achieved full Serene Mind. Alma charged and landed at smack on Naruto. It was a lot lighter than it should have been, but he moved slightly before she could hit.

"Good. You saw it coming. Now dodge it." She said, he had managed to lessen each of the following 15 blows, but none of them were dodged. "You aren't dodging properly."

She went for another one, this time, though, Sylph lent him some extra speed. He then dodged it. Barely, but he did. "You used Sylph's power to dodge that." She pointed out. Neither one had bothered to acknowledge the ANBU watching them both.

"You're moving too fast. I can't dodge in time. The best I can do is lessen each blow."

"And here I thought Sylph had helped you train your speed. Oh well. I'll tone down the speed a bit more." She did, and the ANBU saw the attack coming. This time, Naruto managed to dodge it, again by the same margin.

"Good. You're listening to the flow. Now... let's see you dodge this." Alma then threw an open palm towards him. Naruto immediately knew what was coming and put up his hands to split the Wind Blast in half. "I must say, you've got a very high control over wind to do that."

"I have no training in Wind." Naruto replied.

"No training, huh..." Alma thought for a moment. "Take off the Blindfold. You've got the basics of Serene Mind. Sensing the movements in the Flow. To master it, you'll need to understand the Four Elements in their entirety. You don't have to be able to use them. I mean, take Granberia for example. She only uses Fire, and can't even draw on Water. And yet she attained the highest level of Serene Mind possible by the time she was Five years old." Naruto had taken off the blindfold and handed it back to her. "It seems you can only act on the flow when you can't see physically. Your mind's eye sees the Flow. You need to be able to combine the two visions in order to master it."

"I'll explain it in more detail tomorrow night. Hopefully it's good enough." Alma said. "Now get some rest. You'll need it for traveling." She smiled at him, which he returned.

She only acknowledged the ANBU after he was finally asleep. "So, I take it you didn't like the training session much." It was more of a comment than a statement.

"I am not fond of it, no."

"Naruto has the strength of an old friend of mine. Luka's soul seems to burn in him, now. If the other Knights knew of him, they'll want to train him themselves." Alma pointed out. "If they meet him, they'll want to talk to him. I'm the only one in the area, though."

"He is Konohagakure's responsibility, not yours." The ANBU stated.

"Then know this. One day, he'll need proper training in Sylph's abilities. I can sense he is a Jinchuuriki, as well." the ANBU tensed. "I have nothing against Jinchuuriki, until they go on murdering rampages. Then I have a problem, and only then. He has a strong will."

"And how do you know he won't?"

"Because I can sense Luka's blood in him. It's in the highest quantity I've seen in a long time. He'll need to learn to control. He's also got the Will Luka had. I believe you would call it the Will of Fire. His will is... actually, I think it's higher than even Luka's was. He has a will that will not be deterred by even a Goddess. Luka's wouldn't either. I should know. I helped him fight one."

"The Legend of the Fall of Ilias?"

"Some points are embellished, I'll admit. For example, they say the Hero is a grown man. That's wrong. Luka was nowhere near a man in form." Alma pointed out. "Luka is the hero in the legend. The Rokudo Sennin was a descendant. I have met the founders of the Uchiha, Senju and Uzumaki clans. Uzumaki was the oldest, Senju the middle, Uchiha the youngest. If Naruto is a true Uzumaki Clan Member, he would effectively be able to override most of the points that the Uchiha and Senju clans bring to the table. If you find a Namikaze, and it is not Naruto, then they would be able to override even his decision, if he were an Uzumaki. Luka's Eldest son formed the Namikaze Clan, and kept to themselves all this time. They were actually the best in Wind Manipulation. Doesn't matter where you were. They had retained Sylph's power from Luka, along with the Holy energy in him. I may not be able to sense Holy energy, if someone has Angel Halo, and can use it, then they are of the Namikaze Clan. But since even I don't know where it is, I can't prove it. Only a Namikaze would be able to use it these days." Alma sighed as she sat down. "Luka was barely 8 years old when he started his journey. He was 10 years old when Ilias was taken down."

"The home of Minato Namikaze, and his clan. Where is it?"

"It's not far from here. But for now, it's a ruin that is meant to stay abandoned. You understand?" Alma tried to sleep sitting down. She smiled a bit. "But Naruto has a great destiny. I can feel it. Make sure he is trained well in ALL aspects. He'll need it. Fuuinjutsu will help especially." She then fell asleep. The ANBU filed it away for later use.

-the next afternoon-

Sarutobi, Naruto and Alma saw the village of Sunagakure. Alma had changed her form slightly. Mainly hiding her wings and non-human traits. "If you're going in there, I might as well keep Naruto company while you do your business, Sarutobi-san."

Sarutobi nodded at that. "Make sure he doesn't die. If he does, I'm blaming you."

"And you'd have every right to."

As they entered the village, Alma in her human disguise went alongside Naruto. They went into a musical instrument shop. "Alma? Why are we here?"

Alma was looking at a pretty expensive Ocarina. "Naruto, it would be very helpful if you learned to play a Woodwind Instrument. There are times I feel down, and I play mine." She pulled out her flute. "Mine is the flute. A Natural Wind such as yourself will enjoy playing them in your spare time. It also cuts down on the possible trouble you'll get into."

Naruto looked around. "What classifies as a Woodwind?"

She led him to a few of them. "This is a flute, as you can see. They're a lot more common these days. I don't think you'll be much of a flute player, to be honest."

Naruto then saw something else. It was an old fashioned Ocarina. It was Forest Green in color. It was different from the rest. "What is this one?"

Alma looked at it. "Hmm... an Ocarina... a Forest one at that." She looked at Naruto. "Naruto, those that would choose an Ocarina would end up being much more like a Prankster if they got bored and had nothing else." He looked at her, and saw her smile. "That is much more like you. A Forest Ocarina, on the other hand, are chosen by Pranksters and Trappers. You'll really benefit from Fuuinjutsu with this as your choice."

A worker came up to them. "Can I help you with something?"

Alma looked at him. "Yes... Seban. How much is this Ocarina?" She gestured to the Forest Ocarina Naruto pointed out.

"That one?" He was surprised. "You know, most seem to avoid that Ocarina like the plaque. No one could ever find out why, though, as even the most battle hardened Shinobi avoid even looking at it. Honestly, it even gives me the creeps."

Naruto felt a connection to it. The moment it was put in his hands, he felt it. His hair whipped around for a few seconds, as he held it. He smiled. "It's perfect."

Alma nodded. "We'll buy it."

"This way, please." They went to the register, where someone came up to them. "Seban, are you really selling that Ocarina?"

"Boss?" He looked at the newcomer.

"Kid, that Ocarina is dangerous. The last one to have it committed suicide. You know what that means?" Naruto nodded. "And you still want it?"

"Yes... sir." He replied.

The man then went from a frown to a smile. "Then take it, free of charge." Naruto was surprised.

"What? Free? But..."

"Listen kid, that thing has been bad for business. I'd be happy to part with it for nothing if I can get customers again." He said. "Please, just take it."

Naruto looked at the Ocarina, and nodded. "Okay. I'll make sure to learn how to play it better than anyone else."

"Thanks kid." The man said.

Naruto and Alma walked out, before making their way to a park. They found someone being harassed, which Naruto noticed. But what really got him was what the kids were saying.

He then went in, and the one they were bullying vanished from their sight. It left the confused. "You okay?" They turned to find Naruto holding a read head, as if he had just gotten out of there.

The red head nodded. His eyes were a deep brown, his hair red. Naruto then sent a chilling glare at the kids, who stiffened. "Get lost, idiots." his voice denoted a lot of danger. The kids did just that, and ran in fear. Naruto then put the red head down. "Sorry, I couldn't just let them hurt you like they were."

"I'm okay... They can't seem to hurt me." the boy said.

"Say, what's your name?" Naruto asked.

"G-gaara..."

"Hmm... My name is Naruto Uzumaki!" Naruto's old foxy smile plastered on his face got a small one on Gaara's. "Hey, you want to play? I'm only in town for a while. Might as well have a friend for now, ne?"

"But... I'm a monster..."

Alma then sensed it, and put a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "It seems like he's got Shukaku in him. Why don't you play with him? He needs a friend." She said, earning a nod. He already learned the truth of the Kyuubi from Luka.

Naruto and Gaara started playing a few games with each other, mainly catch with a ball that Naruto produced from... actually, not even Alma knew where he got it. Alma simply watched the two, and made sure that Naruto was safe. He was laughing and having fun with Gaara until the Konoha ANBU Cat entered the area, seeing Naruto and Gaara playing, Alma watching. "Alma, the talks with Hokage-sama and Kazekage-sama are finished we will be leaving in the morning."

Alma nodded. "Don't worry about us. I'll find the Hokage and get him to the Hotel you are staying at tonight. I'll be sticking with Naruto until you guys start to leave the desert, if that's fine with the Hokage."

"You will have to ask Hokage-sama." The ANBU replied. Alma nodded. The ANBU then watched over Naruto next to Alma. "Who's he playing with?"

"His name is Gaara. Apparently, he's the Jinchuuriki of Shukaku. He needed a friend, and someone to play with. They're having a good time, as you can see." Alma explained. "I take it Naruto doesn't have many friends his own age, does he?"

"No he doesn't. Naruto is pretty much hated by everyone in Konoha." Cat replied. Then Alma, Cat and Naruto tensed. Naruto then pushed Gaara to the side, knowing the attack was meant for him, and jumped away quickly. 6 Kunai hit the ground where they were. "Demon... time to die!" Alma was enraged, and vanished from her spot.

The assailant suddenly doubled over and coughed up blood. Alma had yet to appear, but there were small cuts appearing on the assailant all over. The only one that even had a clue as to what was going on was Naruto. He watched Alma flicker in and out of view, but every time she did she was becoming the Wind and striking the assailant, before appearing right in front of Naruto and Gaara. "Gaara, I believe this one wants you."

Gaara nodded, more in fear than anything else. Naruto hugged him to comfort him, before glaring at the assailant who couldn't even move, since he had several tendons and nerves cut. He wouldn't die, but he also won't be able to move or strike anyone. Her glare was cold. "You, who attack two children, are more a monster than even the Bijuu." Her voice was cold. "Gaara, let's get you home. Naruto, you're coming with. Cat-san, I will meet you at the hotel with Naruto soon."

Cat nodded and shunshin'ed out. Alma ushered Naruto and Gaara away from the assailant. They reached the Kazekage's house, and Gaara went inside. "Hope to see you tomorrow?"

"We leave tomorrow, Gaara." Alma said.

Naruto then got an idea. "If you're ever in Konohagakure look me up! We'll have some fun!"

"Okay! I'll do that!"

Naruto and Alma walked to the Hotel Sarutobi was at, and went in. "We're the Hokage's Tag alongs." Alma stated, getting the room number. The two of them walked up at entered the right room. "I heard some trouble happened while you were with Naruto." Sarutobi said.

"Unfortunately. They were after his playmate." Alma admitted.

Sarutobi nodded. "I got the story from Cat. I'm glad you defended them both. And Naruto." He looked at him. "How did you know the attack was coming?"

"Well... I felt like someone was gonna harm us, but it was a weak feeling. I figured that it was for Gaara and pushed him out of the way before jumping away myself. Good thing too. He was after Gaara's life, not mine."

"I managed to protect them both. Luka would've done the same thing. He won't die, but he won't be able to move for a while. A long while. For hurting a Konohagakure delegate, Suna would be blamed. I believe that would normally be cause for war?"

"That it would." Sarutobi commented. "You did good. No deaths, only disabling strikes, because a Konoha Delegate would be harmed in the process. If he had hurt Naruto then the talks would prove to be more harm than good."

Alma nodded. "Get some rest. I know that someone is gonna throw a fit at the guy's condition. If they try to blame you or any of you guys, I will provide the reason for injury. By attacking someone from Konoha, you would risk war. One drop of blood from Naruto, and war could be claimed, or compensation could be asked for."

Sarutobi nodded, knowing the situation from a few years beforehand. "Yes, we could. I'm willing to let it go, unless someone makes a big deal out of it."

Alma smiled at Naruto. "You acted fast enough to make sure that he didn't get hurt. I'm proud of you."

"I wouldn't let him hurt a friend." Naruto defended. "Gaara and I are good friends."

Sarutobi chuckled a bit. "I see. Perhaps you would come back to see him if you had the chance?"

Naruto nodded happily. Alma then cleared her throat. "Perhaps we should start working on your playing skills before bed?" She suggested, earning a nod from Naruto, who took out the Ocarina, earning surprise from Sarutobi. "We got it from a local store. We paid for it."

"Huh? The guy said it was free." Naruto was confused slightly.

"Oh. I put the money in the register without being noticed. You know how fast I can get." She smiled at him before pulling out her own flute. "Being as I don't use sheet music, you'll be learning the way I did. Notes to the fingers."

And so the lesson began. Apparently, a Suna ANBU, otherwise known as DUST, entered the room. Saying that someone had complained that a Konoha delegate attacked a member of their village. Sarutobi and Cat went to see what went on, and gave their side of the story.

Meanwhile, Alma continued to teach Naruto the notes. And then a few songs she knew calmed down her own urges. Sarutobi and Cat entered the room once more, and sighed. "We were hoping to avoid that." Sarutobi said.

"Did you ask for compensation?" Alma inquired. Sarutobi pulled out a scroll. "This is what we got. It all goes to Naruto, who could have been killed by the attack. It has a good amount of money, and several of Suna's Wind Jutsu. I'll be keeping this a secret from our own Council, as well. Naruto will hang on to it." He handed it to Naruto. "These are for your use later on. Make sure no one finds them." Naruto nodded and hide it on his body. "Hey, Jiji? Wanna listen to something?"

Sarutobi chuckled. "Sure. Perhaps you can lighten the mood."

Naruto started to play his ocarina. The tune was slightly happy, yet held an undercurrent of pain. The tune went on for a while. Alma was the only one that noticed where the tune came from, because she had not taught it to him.

When Naruto had finished, he was slightly out of breath. "Sorry... I guess I still need to work on breathing."

"You'll only get better with practice." Alma told him. "Remember, practice playing your Ocarina. It will help."

They slept that night, and left in the Morning. Gaara was with the Kazekage to see them off. "I apologize for the inconvenience to your young companion." The Kazekage said.

"I was willing to let it go to begin with, Kazekage-dono." Sarutobi admitted. "It was your council that wanted it dealt with."

"Yes, I hope what we gave was enough."

"Yes, it was indeed." Sarutobi admitted. "We should get going."

Naruto looked at Gaara with a smile, which Gaara returned.

They then walked off and left eyesight of Sunagakure.

That day, Naruto puffed a few tunes out, Alma guiding him, with a few of her own. It was late afternoon when he felt it. Something nearby calling to him. He turned his head, stopping his tune. "It's close..."

Alma noticed this. "You feel it again?"

Naruto did not answer. Instead, he just ran off. "Naruto!" Alma and Sarutobi ran after him, Alma didn't stop him however. She wanted to know what it was that was calling him. His body was soon lit on fire, as he jumped up and hit the ground. When he did, he went through. Alma was surprised, not knowing what was going on. "Alma, what the hell is here that he would know about?"

"I don't know. There are no ruins around this point. Nothing to indicate something of value here." Alma pointed out. "But something was calling him here on the way to Suna. Maybe that's what this is. Thing is, I have no clue what it is."

She went into the same point that Naruto did, Sarutobi following close behind.

When they reached the end of a tunnel, they saw Naruto standing in front of a pedestal with a sword all too familiar to Alma. This was proven by the look of shock, surprise and awe in her eyes. "No way..." She breathed. Naruto ignored them and grabbed the sword and pulled it out of the stone it was stabbed in. It was a simple matter, but released a shockwave, showing Luka's grown form. Naruto held the sword in his hand. It was a Purple Flat Double Helix blade. "That sword..."

"You know it?" Sarutobi asked.

"I'd be an idiot not to. That is Angel Halo. Luka's preferred weapon. Able to seal any monster or demon. It also rids the wielder of any impurities in them. In the hands of a Jinchuuriki, or so it is believed, the Bijuu will either die, or be purified to be nothing more than a tame house pet. A much older house pet, but a house pet nonetheless. Looks like Naruto is the next holder. The last one to wield Angel Halo was Luka." Elma explained. "It was already hidden in the time of the Rokudo Sennin. If it wasn't, he wouldn't have become a Jinchuuriki."

"And it was right here under our noses?"

"I'm as surprised as you are." Alma admitted. "All this time, it was right under my nose, but I could never find it, nor did I even know it was here. Naruto cannot be known to have it. I know he is a Jinchuuriki. If your council found out he had it, they'll try to take it. Though they can try, they'll fail and kill themselves. Only one with Angel blood in them can even hold it, much less use it properly. The Angel blood was not found in the Uzumaki, Senju or even Uchiha. The only ones to have it that is a descendant of Luka's..." Her eyes widened in realization. "He's a Namikaze."

"Alma..."

"I should have seen it before. He'd be a shoe in for Minato when he was still young and with his clan."

Naruto then looked at them in confusion, and the sword in his hand. "Jiji? This sword is... What is it?"

"Naruto, that sword is Angel halo. Luka's preferred weapon. I suggest you learn to use a broadsword. It will help you learn to wield that sword." Naruto looked confused.

Alma looked at Sarutobi. "Learning to use a broadsword will help him immensely. They have the same weight and balance Ratio, along with handling the same way. When Luka couldn't use Angel halo, he used a standard steel Broadsword. He still could use all of his favorite techniques, but Angel Halo was still his preferred weapon."

"Well, if that's a broadsword, it will be much harder to make. You probably know this, but we don't use swords of that shape or nature these days."

Alma hummed, before asking for a piece of paper, and ink. She drew up the schematics for a standard broadsword. "This is a standard Broadsword. If you can have it made of the the strongest Chakra conducing metal, make sure it is given to him and no one else. Angel Halo is a good sword to use against those who are corrupt, inherently evil, decidedly evil, but this is not to the mind of the wielder or the human race that decides what is best. It is the sword itself that decides. An out of control demon? Sealed. If the sword does not deem a reason to seal, it will kill." Alma explained. "The only one I know could teach him to use a Broadsword is Granberia, but I couldn't tell you where she is. She wanders all the time. Anyone else you'd either find in Kumo or Kiri. Granberia has fought many from both. Neither provides a good enough challenge."

"May I at least ask that you don't let Granberia know about me?" Naruto asked. "At least until I can learn to use it. Then, if we cross beforehand, I'll take any fall for it. I want my existence to be more of a surprise."

"Sure thing! Anything to annoy Ole Granny." Alma smiled like a prankster would.

Naruto returned the smile with a Fox grin of his own. "Let's take her by surprise. Sylph can teach me Luka's style, right?"

"If she paid attention, I don't see why not." Alma answered. Naruto looked to his side. "Sylph?"

"Sure I can! I know his style better than the others! I know all his moves, how they're done, how he does them, and when you can use them too." Sylph answered. Naruto nodded.

"Okay. I'll be counting on you."

"You still need to get the Serene Mind mastered." Undine spoke.

"I know I do, but still..."

"I've seen your progress with Serene Mind, Naruto. Learning to play the Ocarina will help. Believe me. Serene Mind is much easier to use when you're at peace with yourself. It's why it takes so long to master." Alma explained. "Remember, the flow is everywhere. The Flow will tell you where everything is, where they will strike, and how they will hit. Remember, understanding brings more than peace."

Naruto nodded. And they went outside, following Alma's lead. Cat was surprised when they came out, Naruto holding a strange sword. "Hokage-sama?"

"We are fine. Come. We should continue. And do not ask about the sword. It is the reason Naruto ran off." They moved at a pace slightly above civilian. Naruto was playing his Ocarina once more, Alma playing her flute in tune with him. They kept going through the night that time, Naruto not completely tired. It wasn't until almost Midnight that Naruto got tired, and was about to collapse on his feet. They had reached the forest at that point. Sylph put up a barrier around their campsite, and Naruto passed out quickly.

He was asleep before he hit the ground. Alma bid them farewell.

Naruto was fine in the morning but they took it slow. Mainly so he can keep up. He ignored the others most of the time, favoring his Ocarina. Sarutobi then signaled the ANBU to use a blunted Shuriken on Naruto.

The ANBU nodded slightly, and pulled one out, before tossing it at Naruto, who tilted his head slightly, having it miss. He didn't miss a single note, nor did he pause in his playing.

Sarutobi smiled as he thought. 'Alma was right. He dodged it right when he had to, not before or after. That's good. Really good. I'm not sure if that's the Serene Mind she mentioned, but that is definitely useful. It's effectively Naruto's in the village, as Shinobi don't use it. A single lapse in concentration would mean certain death, but he's not even paying attention to us. His eyes are closed, he's playing music, which is good, and he still dodged when he had to.'

Naruto then stopped the tune as if it were supposed to. "Jiji, why did he throw that dull Shuriken?"

Sarutobi's smile grew even wider. "Seeing if Alma was right." 'He even knew it was blunted... Definitely a good thing.'

"You coulda asked." Naruto said. "It's funny, though. Sitting still, I can't even feel the flow that well. But when moving, or acting, I can see it much more easily. When playing this Ocarina, it's so clear, it's like I know where everything is."

"Everything?"

Naruto nodded. "I even felt your hands move."

Sarutobi lost his smile, which turned into a smirk. "Well, Naruto, I believe you've got yourself quite the ability with this "Flow". Is Sylph teaching you this?"

"Well, she was trying to teach me, but it's normally used by a friend of hers. It's not really easy, and she says it would help me if I wanted to become a Shinobi."

"Knowing where everything is without even being able to see anything would be a helpful ability indeed. I say you should master it. If you haven't mastered yet, that is."

Naruto nodded at that. "I have a long way to go to master it. Sylph says I'm not even half-way to mastering it."

Sarutobi's eyes widened slightly, before a smile settled on his face. "I see. Then work on it. I'll send for you when the Academy starts up. Anything Sylph teaches you would be considered a Clan Jutsu, and to reject teaching someone one of those abilities is your call. Remember that. If you find any other Elemental Spirits, then their abilities are to teach at your discretion as well." Naruto smiled widely, and nodded.

"Thanks Jiji!" Sarutobi chuckled at that.

It took them 2 days of walking before they were in sight of the Village. Naruto stopped playing prematurely, and looked around and at Angel halo. "Jiji, I'll head home from here. Don't worry about me. I'll be fine." Sarutobi nodded and Naruto ran into the bushes to find his clearing. It was much easier than he had thought. Playing the ocarina was a lot better for his concentration.

It was 5 months later that an ANBU entered his clearing. He was mostly ignored, and left alone, much to his pleasure. Apparently the academy was starting up in 3 days.

Naruto had managed to master the flow, thanks to Undine and Alma's advice. It was two months ago he managed to achieve Full Mastery of Serene Mind. It was actually thanks to a Jutsu Luka had taught him in his mind. Luka and Salamander had managed to up his control. His Chakra levels were far higher than even the Hokage. He could climbs trees, with or without hands, and walk on water. Undine didn't exactly like the fact that he slightly harmed the water, so instead of just walking, he harmonized himself with the water, getting rid of the disturbance in it. He had created a Taijutsu style that combined the power of all Four Spirits. He called it the Elemental Strike Fist.

Naruto had decided to ask Undine a question after the ANBU was long gone. "Hey, Undine? How do I get to Erubetie?"

"Ah, finally wanting to visit I see."

"Yeah, but can you blame me? I wanted to master the Serene Mind before I did." Naruto retorted.

"Yes, I know." Undine smiled. "All you have to do is find a Pure Water Source, jump in, and let me do the rest. Okay?"

Naruto nodded and left the clearing to find a river that was clear enough to see the bed a good 6 feet down. He jumped in, and Undine did the job perfectly.

He found himself in a cave, still wet. Erubetie was nearby, and about ready to strike. He dodged her sensing her through the flow, before sending a small wind pulse to dry himself off. "Erubetie?" He asked.

He saw her smiling. "Naruto. It's been a while."

"Too long." Undine took a solid form, being as this was her home.

"Erubetie, he's already mastered the Serene Mind. It was why he took so long to come back." She said, smiling at Naruto. The Other Spirits came out and solidified.

"I must say, you did a good job, Undine. Anything else he learned?"

"Well, a few months ago we ran into Alma." Naruto scratched the back of his head. "She's actually the reason I knew what to do. It was slow going with Undine's help only."

"Alma helped out?" Erubetie was slightly surprised.

Naruto then explained the trip. Erubetie had to smile at that. "Yeah, that sounds like Alma, alright. She'd do anything to annoy Granberia. I'm glad you kept to your word and no one had found me. You've also gotten a good bit taller."

She was right, in the year since he last saw her, he had gained a good 4 inches on his height. "You think so?"

She smiled at him. "Yes, you have. Undine, you've done well in teaching him, as have the rest of you, I presume?" The spirits all nodded.

"Alma helped, but we also came up with a fighting style for him. It would allow him to use our abilities with ease and without having to switch it up." Gnome said.

"Earth for power, Wind for speed, Water for flexibility, and Fire for strength." Salamander pointed out. "He uses all of them, and understands all four of our elements."

"Downside is, you can tell which element I'm favoring by what the style does." Naruto told her. "You see, I get a lot faster using the wind portion. I take more hits with Earth. With Water, I'm more focused on dodging and counters. Fire, I hit harder. A LOT harder. Oh, and Luka taught me something my Mom had hidden."

"Oh? And what would that be?"

Naruto put his hands in a position. His index and pinky fingers touched at the tips, while the middle and ring fingers touched at the base of the opposing hands. (A/N: Picture the Rooster Handsign, just stretch out the Middle and Ring Fingers) "Dark Side Clone." A clone of him formed from his shadow.

It was a complete copy of himself. "I only really use him for sparring and it helped in Taijutsu training. A lot." Naruto smiled at the clone. "He's pretty good, and I started learning it in the final stages of Serene Mind. At least, that's what Undine said."

"He's right. That's when we started it. Water looks more like a graceful dance to the humans."

"It's a work in progress, and definitely not finished, though." Naruto said.

"Tell me about this Clone. I've never heard of something like it." Erubetie said.

Naruto nodded. "The Dark Side Clone is basically a solid clone that is made from the Darkness in one's heart. It can heal itself, knows everything the original knows, and would have no qualms using it on anyone. When it dispels, the essence is brought back. While it's out, though, I don't cast a shadow. It's actually formed from my Shadow and the Dark Side of my Heart. It helps that I can go all out on him."

Erubetie nodded. "That's a good thing to have. Now, what is it that you found while on that Trip to Suna?"

Naruto simply sighed. "It was Angel Halo. It was in a Temple, stabbed into a pedestal, under the sands. Pretty far in, too." The clone dissolved and Naruto's Shadow returned. "I've been working with sticks against the Clone, too. Only started that last week when I had the basic forms for each element and managed to combine them into one did I start with it. I'm nowhere near finished with it."

"I see. Well, have a seat. Let's talk a little."

They continued to talk for a while. Naruto talked about his training, what he learned, what he figured out, and even the Ocarina which had helped him immensely. When he was asked to play a tune, he started to play one from his heart. It gave off his happiness, even with the undercurrent of pain still there. Erubetie felt everything he put into the tune, and knew quickly that he played with his feelings instead of any set tune.

The Little known Song of the Heart, it was called. There was no one way to play that song. But she could tell when someone was playing it nearby. She knew that Naruto was playing it. "Naruto... when did you learn to play that song?" She asked.

Naruto looked at her. "I just play what comes to mind. It always makes me feel better."

"Naruto, that song is unique. Do you want to know why?" Naruto nodded. "It's because it's the only one without a set way to play it. It's called the Song of the Heart. When one can play an instrument well enough they can pour their heart out through that song. It's when a person's true feelings come out for the world to see. Playing the Song of the Heart is simple to play, but is complicated to figure out, unless you can tell what the notes mean."

"What they mean?"

"This is something I can explain." Sylph started. "Each note has a particular point on the emotional scale. The longer you play the song, the more the feelings come alive. The reason there is no one way to play it is because it is based on the individual, not the instrument, or even sheet music. It comes from the heart, and is impossible to record and play right if it is not your heart. When Alma told you to play from your heart, she wanted to know how you truly felt."

Naruto's eyes widened. "You mean, I've been playing the same song all this time, no matter what I played."

"Yup. It's why you achieved Serene Mind. Alma helped out more than anyone realized." Sylph told them.

"You didn't mention telling anyone about me, and no one has come. You're welcome to come by if you like, but make sure you're not followed, ne?" Erubetie told him.

Naruto simply nodded. "I start the academy in 3 days. Gotta go through the village to do so, though. It's gonna be a pain to deal with the looks of the villagers."

"Don't worry so much. You've got us with you at all times." Sylph said. Naruto nodded with a smile. "Thanks, Sylph. Guys." The four spirits hugged him and he returned it as best as he could.

"Get some rest. If anything I've heard about the Academy is true, you'll need it, and try to learn what they teach, boring or not." Erubetie told him.

Naruto nodded. "I'll try to."

"Erubetie, you know how the Wind is. He's taken more traits from me than Gnome would like." Sylph told her. "We can't sit still for long periods of time without doing anything."

Gnome groaned. "Don't remind me. But at least he can be serious when he needs to! YOU can't!"

"Ah, shut up!" Sylph told her.

"While the Wind and Earth fight again, you think I can spar with you?"

"Are you sure? I mean, I can be pretty ruthless while fighting."

"Yeah. Probably can't hurt me as bad as the Dark Side Clone does." Naruto commented.

-10 minutes later-

Naruto was on the ground, beaten badly. "Ow..."

"What was that about the Dark Side Clone hurting you more?" Erubetie smirked.

"He still hurts me more... but you took me out faster." He commented. "Ow... That still hurt, though. At least you don't hit where... he does." He winced.

Sylph and Gnome stopped fighting, and looked at Naruto, as Undine was healing his wounds. They walked up to him. "Who did he fight?" Gnome asked.

Sylph looked at Erubetie. "He wanted to spar with you didn't he?"

"I told him I get a little rough." She said.

Sylph looked at Naruto. "You just had to challenge her didn't you?"

"My Dark Side Clone does...worse." Naruto said.

Undine finished. "Honestly, Naruto, the clone does more damage but the fight lasts longer. In the same timeframe, the clone would do a little more damage than Erubetie did. Not much more, but still more. You've got Luka's Angel Blood to thank for that."

"The fact he ends up like this after every spar is not that good for him physically, but it helps him improve." Sylph said.

"I tend to put Earth Weights on him that weigh him down to train his speed." Gnome admitted. "It helps him out in that department."

"To last 10 minutes at the level I was going, I'm actually impressed. He's easily mastered the Serene Mind for this. I can tell he had to use it all throughout the fight, and knew it would not be enough." Erubetie admitted. "He's obviously progressed well."

Salamander then spoke up. "Thing is, he plans to play the fool in the Academy. It was Luka's suggestion."

"Why would Luka suggest that?" Erubetie questioned.

"He said the dead last is always paired up with the Rookie of the Year. Being sealed inside the wife of the Yondaime Hokage was pretty informative. Rookie of the year, Kunoichi of the year and dead last of the class will get put on the same team. It's the only guaranteed team. By being the dead last..."

"I can be put with the best, and make them better." Naruto said, sitting up slowly. "It's actually simple if you know what you're doing. Learn everything I can, make a fool out of myself, and put on an act that would get me to be the dead last of the class. Find a good class then pass the final then. Hopefully with my age group."

Erubetie thought about it for a moment and nodded. "You'll need a different style. The Deer skins won't be good enough for it. Granted, they look pretty good, they won't fit the purpose. Whoever made them was pretty good."

"You really think I'm that good?" Naruto asked, sitting against a rock. "Because what I've been wearing for almost a year I made myself. I caught my food, made my own clothes. Gnome helped me learn to tend to my garden, very relaxing I'll admit, and how to skin. I've also been learning more Fuuinjutsu from Luka, and Salamander has been slowly getting my body adjusted for hotter and colder temperatures."

"He can be lit on fire without any trouble now. Hell, he could probably be hit with an A-rank Fire Jutsu of this time and be completely unaffected." Salamander spoke with pride. "His body adapts quickly. Too bad I can't get him good enough to sit in a pool of lava without being affected. He'll have to get it done himself."

"Well, you're welcome to rest up here until tomorrow." Erubetie stated. "I would enjoy your company. At least stay for the night."

For the next three days, Naruto had actually gone into the village to find a few things. On the second He had found out the Traveling Merchants were in town, and decided to sell a few of his furs that had been unused, bones, and a few other items he picked up while hunting. He managed to get a lot of money from it, and went into a shinobi shop.

There was a man at the counter who simply raised an eyebrow at him. "Looking for something kid?"

"I'm going into the Ninja Academy. I kinda need supplies." Naruto said, somewhat sheepishly.

The man looked into Naruto's eyes. "Let's see... You've got some rags for clothing. Deer skin?"

Naruto nodded. "Had to make them myself. Been living in the forest almost a year."

"No parents?" Naruto shook his head. He had long since gotten over it for the most part. "I see. Well, I'm always happy to help orphans. Though, I do wonder why you don't live in the orphanage, I'm not gonna pry. It's probably personal." He shrugged. "Right this way." He led Naruto to a rack of clothing. Naruto had found Orange Jumpsuits. Sylph Immediately noticed them.

"The orange ones aren't exactly fit for Shinobi." He said.

"How much are they?"

"You sure, kid?"

"I heard a few mask guys say that Deception is a Shinobi's greatest friend. You say this isn't good for a Shinobi? I say it's perfect." Naruto smiled.

"Damn. Never thought I'd ever see these things get sold. Just take them. I've got more in larger sizes. When you outgrow them, come back and I'll get you the larger ones."

"Could you put a symbol on it, though? Something specific."

"Think you can draw it out?" He asked, holding up a piece of paper, and a pen. Naruto nodded, and took it. He drew a picture of a Whirlwind surrounded by a spiral of Flames, with Water Droplets and Rocks around it in random patterns. "This is what I mean."

The man looked at it. "Want on the back, don't you?" Naruto nodded. "Can do. They'll be ready tomorrow. I'll even modify the larger ones ahead of time to make sure they're ready when you get them."

"Thank you, sir." Naruto bowed his head.

"Name's Dustin. Dustin Higarashi. You're welcome to come here anytime, Naruto." Naruto stiffened a bit. "I knew who you were from the beginning, and decided to make my own opinion. I like what I saw. Like I said, you're welcome here any time." The smile on his face brought one to Naruto's.

"Thanks, Dustin."

Naruto walked out, and didn't see the ANBU watching over him until he looked into the flow. Really, he had only been using it when he felt some kind of intent to kill, whether it was used on him or not. It wasn't from the direction of the ANBU, but knew where it was. 'Someone's in trouble. Might want to help.' He ran off in the direction and found a few girls picking on someone. Through the flow, he found the shape of the girl and vanished into the wind, grabbed the girl, and she vanished as well, before they ended up on a rooftop.

The girl had Dark Blue hair, Lavender almost white eyes, but was crying. "You okay?" He asked softly. She looked at him tears in her eyes. She shook her head. "Those kids were picking on you weren't they?"

"y-yes..."

"Do you know why?" She nodded. "Care to tell me?"

So she explained how she was the heiress of the Hyuuga Clan, through a lot of stuttering, and that she was too weak for her clan. He pulled her close and said encouraging words, calming her down just like Undine used to a while back.

As she stopped crying and shaking he pulled back a bit. "Feel better now?" She nodded with a smile. "Then listen closely. I can give you some advice when it comes to strength. From what I can tell, you're a Water Element. If you're training for Taijutsu, you'll need more flexibility in your style. Water is flexible, pretty fast, and yet able to run even the Earth ragged with time. Water is like the wind in many ways. The Wind is faster, but water is more flexible. Earth can take a lot of damage, but Water can easily wear down the Earth by outlasting them. Wind Outsmarts the Earth. Water breaks it down. Fire turns it to ashes. Fight like the Water. Then you'll see your potential. Understand?"

She thought for a moment and nodded. "Y-yes. I do." She replied meekly. "Then remember that when training. Feel how your body flows. If it isn't flowing like a river, then it's not for you. It has to feel right to be used best. When you have to force yourself to move a certain way for Taijutsu, then change the Taijutsu." She nodded, and caught his smile. He looked away. "Looks like someone's coming. I should get going. Name's Naruto."

"H-Hinata."

"Later Hinata." He smiled and vanished before she felt something similar to lips hit her cheek. She didn't see him before or after it, but somehow she knew. He just kissed her on the cheek. She blushed a deep red and fainted with a smile on her face. A woman found her like that as she landed next to her, and smiled. 'Looks like Hinata's got a little crush.'

The next day, Naruto managed to get the new clothes, put them on, and went to the opening ceremony for the Academy. He was in Bright Orange jumpsuit with the symbol he drew on his back, a Red spiral on his left shoulder, and White one on his right shoulder, and blue underneath. (Naruto's Part I clothing, resized to fit his smaller body, just with the new symbol on the back)

When their classes were called out, Naruto was in a useless class. No aspiring candidates. He listened, and when he asked questions, he was punished. Late? Punished. He was barely able to learn anything.

The Spirits were talking with him as he was always punished. It was this way throughout his first year. It was before the beginning of the second year that Sylph had an idea. "Remember what Alma said when you picked out the Ocarina?" This caused Naruto to get a fox-like grin.

'Thanks for reminding me, Sylph. Hehehehehehe... Time to go on a pranking spree.'

"I would not suggest that, Naruto." Undine stated.

'I see it as more than just pranking, Undine. Gnome, you know how high the weights are, right?'

"I don't see what this has to do with anything."

'Large pranks equal Ninja following me. What happens when I have to run from Chuunin to avoid getting caught?'

Sylph knew what he was saying, and Salamander had just figured it out. "I get it now."

'Sal?'

"You're looking to use this for speed training."

Naruto sent them all a nod. Undine then thought about it. "You know, that's a good idea. Pranks are childish, I'll admit, but then there's the Speed to get out of there. That's training."

"Stamina to keep going. There's more." Gnome added.

"And doing so in this orange jumpsuit is stealth training. Set it up without being noticed..." Sylph was cut off.

"He'll be even more dangerous in darker colors."

'My sentiments exactly.' Naruto told them. 'If I could set up a prank in broad daylight in a Bright Orange Jumpsuit, think of what I could do in actual Shinobi clothing at night.'

They all got the picture then. "I'm probably gonna regret this, but pranks it is." Undine agreed.

Needless to say she did. Sylph, however, had the time of her life watching Naruto play pranks. Gnome had realized just what Naruto was trying to do. She even pitched in a few times. Salamander always laughed at the results.

00000x00000

Chapter complete.