Let's face it. There wasn't NEARLY enough done with Kurama in the "Naruto: Shippuden" series. And since I don't expect anything to really happen with Kurama in the "Boruto" series, here comes what I hope to someday make as a spin-off series (NO REALLY I'M SERIOUS. If I can become a successful screenwriter then make the jump to television, once I'm established I'll be going after character rights to Kurama. Laugh if you want but everyone laughed at Naruto too and look where he ended up! So...I realize this is going the take some creative liberties, but if you can accept the fact the Kurama was transferred from a seal in Naruto to a summoning contract and thus if he's taken out of Naruto's body Naruto WON'T die from that...Then you're good because that's the biggest change I made...Well, that and this mysterious stone that transfers Kurama to "our" world. I'll explain how the stone works someday but for now that's a mystery for the future! If I'm majorly screwing up, let me know but keep in mind that the whole point of this fanfiction is to give Kurama an actual purpose to live...Not just to provide power to Naruto...Although his self-pride won't be going anywhere...If you're still reading this it's means I just might be able to convince you that Kurama coming to our world and meeting a new will-be brother, Kira, to do for our world would Naruto did for his...IS FREAKIN' AWESOME!

BIG UPDATE: Finally saw "The Last: Naruto The Movie" and in it Kurama CAN fight separate from Naruto. So I'm assuming that in this fanfiction as long as Kurama leaves ENOUGH of his chakra behind THAT will keep Naruto alive and allow him to do many Six-Paths things...Just not bijuu mode.

So I'm doing this in Word. I'm trying to make each chapter be at least 10 MS Word pages. It's weird because 4 lines of text in Word is about one line here, so I'm not gonna fret about that. BUT to make it easier on myself: I made Kurama's dialogue bold. "If it's in quotations he's saying it directly to Kira using the link so no one else can hear him." Kira's Dialogue is italicized. Again no quotes is him talking directly out loud and "If it's in quotes it's him talking to Kurama directly through the mind link". But for EVERYONE ELSE it's "quotes as normal to indicate dialogue", along with the name to show who's speaking. Plain text with no quotes is narration. OK, enough of a reading lesson...One disclaimer? In this first chapter Naruto has italic dialogue to start since he and Kira are never in the same scene...YET. Also XXX = A short time passes and XXXXXX = a longer time pass

SHORT PROLOGUE:

It was never Kurama's plan to play the hero. That was Naruto's thing. He just wanted to be free. He had absolutely no idea that eventually, he would finally place his past behind him…And all thanks to a new life, nothing like his current one, with him seen as a hero. But we must start with a quick explanation:

After years of just resting in Naruto, only called on in extremely rare occasions, usually to use his power, the 9-tails grew bored. The other tailed beasts didn't really NEED him to keep a watch over they place where all 9 could meet. When did the 9 ever meet anyway? He decided – He wanted to walk around. He wanted to be truly free and explore on his own. Naruto listened, but reminded the 9-tails he was tethered to him. If the 9-tails ever got mad, Naruto would just remind him of a promise he had made: If ever I find a way to safely use your power that allows you to roam free, I will do it. No offense Naruto, but you haven't actually been the best at keeping promises lately. I'm…sorry. But you must understand- Ya, ya. I know. Still, you're so darn busy as hokage you don't even have time for your own family…So why me?

But Naruto realized that while fixing his family life and relationship with his son Boruto especially would take time, although recent events had finally turned thing in his favor what with Boruto finally seeing his dad at full power in a recent fight, Naruto was determined to show Kurama he really was a friend. Think Naruto…I can already give Kurama separate body for fighting in his bijuu mode, but there must be some way I can keep a small piece of Kurama's chakra inside of me while letting him walk freely at anywhere anytime but at a much smaller size. It might be hard but I agree that- It hits him like a ton of bricks. Could it be that simple? "KURAMA!" WHAT? I overheard but what could possible replace the seal, huh? And what's all this about an agreement?

XXXXXX

Chapter 1 - Purpose

Damn this is so annoying! Naruto, make this brat stop pulling! said Kurama. But Naruto just laughed as he watched a curious girl climbing all around on the Kyuubi's back. I swear if I knew things would be this crazy I never would have agreed to that summoning contract…

It was years after the war and many things had changed. Naruto had two children and a tailed beast as a friend. For a few years now, he had also created a summoning contract which allowed him to summon Kurama at a reduced size, allowing him to walk freely around the Hidden Leaf village, as he had voiced a desire to do so a few years prior. There was still a significant amount of his chakra too so heaven forbid something should ever happen...Naruto would be capable of living without him and even performing KCM mode (but not bijuu mode as he DID need Kurama's full chakra for that). OF COURSE, THIS WAS ONLY THE BEGINNING. This had scared many people, but Naruto had allowed it on the basis that after years of silence and sleeping, the 9-tails had grown bored and wanted to take advantage of his 2nd chance at a life. Naruto had even found this meant Kurama did NOT need to keep ALL his chakra inside Naruto to preserve his life. Only about 1 percent. Of course Naruto could call upon Kurama to use the other 99 at any time and Kurama would come but…Not since fighting the Otsutsuki clan. While Boruto Uzumaki, Naruto's son, had lost interest, it seemed some much younger leaf village citizens had a new reason to like the fox…

To think, just about a decade ago I struck fear into even the strongest Anbu. And now I don't even scare a little kid! Kurama was getting extremely annoyed, but Naruto didn't care. O come on Kurama. You can't honestly say you liked being cooped up inside of me, now can you? After all, you constantly grumbled about wanting to get out and about! Well I could have left to be free with the other tailed beasts. And leave me? Kurama glared at him, but he was right. FOR RIGHT NOW...Kurama had no reason to go anywhere else. Glaring on at this scene was Saske Uchiha. In time, everyone in the village had come to accept that Kurama was to be treated as if he was a citizen…Well, everyone but him. Saske had long ago given up his pursuit of using the tailed beasts to re-create the world, but he still did not like them, especially since the Kyuubi resided in the same area as him. The only thing easing his mind was Naruto had seemed to convert Kurama as he himself had been converted from being an enemy to being Naruto's friend. As he started to walk away, likely to check up on Sakura and Sarada, he felt the Kyuubi's eyes move to him, but thought nothing of it, and continued to walk away.

For some time now, Kurama had been looking for a way to show Saske he needed to just suck it up and realize that Kurama wasn't going anywhere…or so he thought. But we'll get to that…soon enough.

Truth was that even with his great new life he still felt like an outsider. He didn't want to be just accepted. He still hadn't found his own purpose. And he didn't know what he was missing yet. But finally, after years, Kurama couldn't stay silent anymore. As the night fell and the family came home, and Naruto prepared to return Kurama to his mindscape for the night - Something's wrong. Naruto looked confused. What? What is it. I…I don't know. Forget I said anything. Kurama stopped. Years later and you STILL can't share your feelings. Naruto frowned at first, but then laughed, and messed with the Kyuubi's hair. Hey! Okay you know what? I'm staying out tonight! O come on Kurama it's just- I said…I'm staying out. Darn physical form... He walked away.

Something really was wrong. Even years earlier when the 9-tails had desired to be truly set free he had not had this attitude. Was his ability to roam again the cause of the issue? It should have HELPED…What more did Kurama need? Naruto clearly saw something had recently been bothering Kurama. He was worried that something bad was happening with a friend...Just like with Saske. But also like with Saske, he didn't know yet what the issue was because his friend wouldn't give him any details. He could follow him...Recently Kurama had been doing a lot of late night trips around the village…A far cry from the tailed beast who just wanted to rest all those years ago. But he decided against it when Hinata asked him to help get the kids to stop fighting…And had to sideline it when he was called into the office…AGAIN...earning yet another glare from Boruto.

XXX

Meanwhile Saske was also up late, reflecting on who knew what. But he sensed something he never expected to sense at that moment. "What the hell are YOU doing here, Kyuubi?" Saske turned around to stare Kurama in the eye. How bold he was to waltz right up to him. Saske…What's your problem with me? If anything, I should have a problem with YOU what with the whole plan of trying to-. "Do you really want to know what my problem is with you tailed beasts? You're sure? It's that you don't understand our values. You can claim to have suffered but you do not know loss. I'd even go so far as to say you don't understand love at all…Not family, just acquaintances. Can you even really call Naruto a friend as I do?" Why you…! Naruto is my first friend. He'll always be my friend and- "Would you die for him? Would you trade your life for anyone? God knows you wouldn't do it for me." Saske interrupted. "A partner? Ya right…You can prove it by dying. Now, let me be, Kyuubi. Come back when you can tell me what a true bond is". Saske pointed in the general direction of Naruto's house, his face clearly having no want to discuss the matter any further. Kurama scowled and left, but not before saying Even if I did die saving you, you still wouldn't care. So why try? Saske considered this, but then went back to reflections.

Back home, Kurama decided to spend the night at the foot of Naruto's bed, although in the morning this DID make him susceptible to some playful attacks, but when Naruto laughed at the fox he was quickly silenced by a whack from a few of his nine tails. Who's laughing now? He grinned. Naruto may be his friend now, but he still enjoyed getting the boy back for the years he was locked away in a cage in his body with Naruto as his jinchuriki, before the two had come to an understanding all those years ago.

XXX

So another day passed and turned to night, and Kurama once more requested to remain outside of the mindscape. Naruto had finally had it. Only if you tell me why. The nights you do this were so rare and yet now we're going on five in a row! This isn't the normal you so stop being so stubborn and tell me what's wrong! 10 years of stubbornness is long enough! Kurama looked away for a second, but then turns back to tell all.

XXX

I don't know what it is that's actually bothering me. It feels like even though the war has been over for years, and even though I have my own physical body now, I'm STILL NOT FREE. Like…Six Paths DID get it wrong and this ISN'T where I'm meant to be… Naruto is stunned by this confession. The most powerful tailed beast, feeling helpless and admitting it for the first time in a decade. No…That's just Saske. You DO belong here. With me. And I'll be sure to knock that into Saske's head tomorrow! Now come on, you need to stay with me tonight. You may not want to but – Interrupting them, Sakura comes running into view, Saske and Sarada in tow. "Naruto!" Naruto and Kurama flip around to see them running their way "What now?" Kurama wonders. "We just found something! It just…appeared from nowhere!" Sakura said. Saske intervenes: "It looks like a seal stone except it's green and not blue. Also it doesn't seem to seal things…" Kurama, let's go! Saske: "Are you crazy? It could still be something to do with a seal stone in which case your precious Kyuubi is at risk". He glares down at Kurama. That's it! I'm going whether like it or not! Either help us or get out of our way, Saske! Guys please not now. Saske, take me to it. Sorry take US to it. "Naruto…" I said -Naruto put on a firm look Take...US.

XXX

"Naruto…Um…Thank you" Kurama said from the mindscape, now back inside it as a precaution, and in case they needed to go full bijuu mode. "You know, I could get used to this new you…You're a lot nicer to start". He laughs, essentially putting Kurama back on defense. "Hey! Don't get all creepy about it or I'll never do it again!" They arrive at the edge of the forest to find that sure enough, there is a small stone, shaped similarly to a seal stone, but green, emitting some sort of...energy. "It's…not chakra. But there is some type of energy here." "Naruto!" Shikamaru Nara jumps from the trees above. "I've thought of everything I can and this thing is just SO LAME. It just doesn't match any know jutsu of any type in the slightest. It's a drag but I can't give you any info on this thing. Whatever it is…"

Saske move towards it "Saske, careful!" Sakura begs. "I have no idea what it is…But I sense it's power." Saske says. "Naruto, do you notice anything about this strange energy? Anything at all?" Naruto thinks hard and…Shock! This is…It can't be. "It's not but it uses a similar energy to that." Shikamaru looks on in confusion "Excuse me, fill us in here!" Sakura demands. Naruto faces her. This energy is like that of Kaguya Ōtsutsuki, except one major difference – It's not focused. Saske interrupts "Also I can say without a doubt this is not of the Otsutsuki Clan or one of their possessions - It carries no chakra or chakra signature of any type". He turns to it again "It is…Not of this world". Aliens?!

Don't be idiotic, Naruto. Kurama chimes in. Saske means it comes from an alternate universe. Like when Kaguya flung us into different spaces and times. Saske: "Except this is somehow far more powerful. It needs a wielder, but it could go potentially anywhere…Or anywhere you want it to." So how did it get here? Shikamaru: "That's the mystery…" "Naruto." They all turn to see Hinata and Neji. Neji, showing concern, thinks fast "Byakugan! Strange…I can see the world it comes from. Amazingly enough, it has only ever traveled once…From a world not terribly unlike ours. To our world. I can even see where it would take you next if you do not control it to go elsewhere." Where? Neji: "I cannot actually say." But you said- Hinata: "What he means is…Well I see it too. This stone will merely pick another world with both similarities and differences, big and small, to our own." Neji again:. "It shows me...life. Human life...in both where it came from and where it would go. Strange. It may rely on them for it's existence." Then while we have no idea how to control it, apparently it's creators did. "And yet-" interrupts Sakura seeming concerned "They let it leave whatever their world was". Shikamaru: "Or they got rid of it's power. We need to know more about this...Universal Bending Stone." Saske: "Well we know it probably CAN be controlled. Maybe with the use of a mechanism…Or a skilled hand". He grins. It would be best to leave this power alone for now, Saske. Whatever it is it should be investigated before we even dream of using it. IF AT ALL.

"Heh. Ridiculous. If it IS like what Kaguya did, I will control it just one time to find out for sure". Saske picks up the stone and it starts glowing brighter. Saske no! Listen to me for once! This isn't a power we know! Saske, careful! What if Kurama is right?! You know what that power does regardless so imagine if it IS out of your control! Sas- Suddenly, out of nowhere, a giant green light flashes. The unmistakable senses of a space time rift opens, but contrary to their original belief, it is not anything like those Kaguya had used. Everyone senses it now…It does indeed lead somewhere else entirely. What do we do? Naruto asked. Saske tries to contain it. "Not enough chakra to...close this portal. It's…too strong. It's like it can't be stopped!" NARUTO! Of course! Let's go Kurama! Everyone back We're going bijuu mode!

Everyone but Saske steps back as Naruto transforms into the Kyuubi, full sized. Saske tosses the stone to them, and from the moment they grab it the battle is on the send it away. What the hell? It's draining my chakra! The group watches on as Kurama slowly shrinks, his chakra fading bit by bit, piece by piece, seemingly being sucked into the stone as if being sealed. Hang on, Kurama! screams Naruto. He tries to hold out, but with half his power gone and no signs that the stone will stop taking his chakra, Kurama realizes there's only one way to contain it. And it has to be done right now…Naruto. Forgive me. What the hell are you- Just let me have this one time to be the hero. Kurama what are you- He suddenly realizes Kurama's intentions NO WAY! NO WAY IN HELL I'M LETTING YOU-! But Naruto realized the Kyuubi's plan a few seconds too late. In his mindscape, a determined Kurama hesitates only a second: *TO HIMSELF:* Sorry Naruto. We don't know what will happen to our world if I don't do this...Who knows. Maybe the next universe will be better...* He rips up his summoning contract, making sure to leave enough of his chakra behind for Naruto's future use. And with no seal placed on Naruto anymore to prevent him from doing so he pours all the remaining chakra into activating the stones power in a contained area and…

A sudden green flash as Naruto falls to the ground, his bijuu form lost. The stone is gone too. In fact…Kurama?

Naruto enters his mindscape. But the 9-tails is gone. All Naruto has is some 9-tails chakra left...Just enough for a KCM mode lasting a few minutes (Then requiring a long recharge before another use.) And since the now non-existent summoning contract was what held Kurama to Naruto now, and not a seal, it means Naruto can live on…without him...since the chakra Kurama gave as he left is once more MERGED with his own. And once the remaining chakra is Plus he still has access to divine chakra among others like Six Paths and Sage Mode, but…It wouldn't quite be the same. And no bijuu mode…

The shock again besets everyone. Especially…Saske. He's…gone. Not a trace. That stone. It -"Damn that…Kurama." All eyes turn to Saske, head hanging as if shamed again. "Why is it every time I think I know something it turns out wrong?" He asks in a serious tone, looking down all the time. "If I hadn't challenged him to prove himself…Or if I had listened to him and not tried the stone, he might have lived rather than-…" A long pause and looks up. "Disappearing to save us...To SAVE ME. DAMN IT!"

Kurama...Where…did you go?

XXXXXX

Young Kira: "More! More! More!" Yuko: "No. No more. That was it…the last part of the story. So…what's the lesson?" "Always trust your friends and family!" Very good, Kira!"

It's the next world. The one the stone was going to. Yuko turns to leave the room.

"Big brother?" He turns back. "You…You're not gonna leave like Itachi left Saske are you?" He smiles. "Never. But remember Itachi always had Saske's back and even if a time does come when I'm not here…I'm still there for you when you truly need me to be. Besides you're so obsessed with Kurama you'd probably rather have him as a brother anyway..." "Yep!" They both laugh and Yuko walks out of the room. Kira is 6 . Yuko is 14.

4 YEARS LATER

"What the hell?" "I'll be back to visit, Kira…I promise. But I have my own stories to make. As do you. I'll come back on breaks but college is MY dream…Well, it's the start anyway. I'll see you in a few months". "MONTHS? Big brother you're exactly like Itachi!"

Kira's mom interrupts "Kira, how many times do we have to tell you that the Legend of Naruto isn't real? Besides by your own logic if Yuko was Itachi we'd be dead right now." "Wrong because you're not leading a coup against anyone". "He's got you there" the dad laughs, but is silent when he sees his wife's glare. Yuko: "Kira…Be strong. While I am gone you find your own story. Because when I visit next, I want to hear YOUR adventures". Kira actually perks up a bit. "Fine, but they might be pretty crazy." "Not too crazy for me". The two laugh. Kira is 10 . Yuko is 18.

2 YEARS LATER (KIRA'S PRESENT DAY)

Kira's friend Akari is walking to school with him. "2 years down two years to go, huh?" Don't remind me. I still don't have a story to tell… "Maybe if you got your head out of those Naruto legend books…Sorry to say it bud but there's no way any of that nonsense could be real. As cool as it would be, you're never gonna meet Kurama." Dick. Kira is: 12 . Yuko is: 20. Kurama is:

The two walk on unaware of the tailed beast a few meters below the street. Frozen there just holding on to that Universe Bending Stone (That is actually called the Reality Bending Stone...But no one knows that yet. That's a future reveal), unaware of the passage of time...And also unaware that that coming home that day, Kira would fall in a hole to bring him into that cave and finally set him free. REALLY free And THIS would lead to Kira's adventure with Kurama beginning…

Aw come on! I got like 2 lines so far! Well, this is the beginning of the story Kira so of course you do! This part is meant to be about how I got to your world, not you! Fine...but the next half better be all about me! Idiot. The rest of this chapter has to be about how we meet! Um...guys? WHAT/WHAT?! Well...I'm the storyteller here so just let me keep telling it. The second half WILL flesh out Kira as a character but also explain how you two finally met. See? I told you it would be about me! Ya, but it's still also about how we meet. It's more about me though. WHY YOU-

Oh, brother. You know what? I'm really gonna have to to set this up RIGHT (And FYI fighting begins in Chapter 2). That one will likely take longer to write but also be longer. Originally I ended Chapter 1 "Kurama Seeks A Purpose" here but...It was too short so I'm merging chapters 1 and 2, "Kira Uchiha, Kurama's Next Jinchuriki!" And sorry for the 4th wall break outburst. YOU TWO BEHAVE WHILE I TELL THE REST OF YOUR STORY! And as a reminder, italics are now Kira's dialogue, not Naruto's.

Fine...Geez...What did I get myself into? Hey! GUYS! I SWEAR ONE MORE WORD AND I ERASE THE REALITY BENDING STONE FROM EXISTANCE SO THIS STORY NEVER HAPPENS! KURAMA WILL ALWAYS BE LOOKING FOR HIS TRUE PURPOSE AND KIRA WILL BE FOREVER LONELY! (Silence.) Ya...That's what I thought. Okay so on with the story:

Today I want to present- Kira is interrupted by his teacher "If you're about to try to convince us that the legend of Naruto is real again, you can just take your seat now, Kira." But I have new evidence! I found a book that says Kurama just mysteriously disappeared one day. And Naruto never figured out what happened to him and they think he might be traveling the universes….Hell, he could come to ours! The entire class breaks out laughing. Even Akari can't help it "I told him not to say it. But no – He has to go and pretend he's Naruto." The teacher: "That's it Kira! Enough of this Naruto nonsense. Or do I have to remind you that- " Don't you dare Kira challenges her. "Your last name isn't Uzumaki…It's-" DON'T YOU- "UCHIHA!" Akari slaps his face. He's never gonna hear the end of this from Kira. He knows Kira hates his last name because of his view that the fictitious tailed beasts are amazing. Kira Uchiha glares at his teacher. I am NOT like Saske! If Kurama was real – Another student: "But he isn't now, is he BAKA." It was the class bully, Hakudoshi, as he cracked his knuckles. Kira looks to the bully, wanting to comment but knowing that saying something is the wrong thing to do…The teacher: "Kira, please. If you pull this nonsense about the Kyuubi again I'll have to call your parents. These dreams have got to stop. It's not healthy."

Kira took his seat, but as he did he said You're just jealous because my brother taught me to write well enough that I can make legends a reality. The class laughs again. "All right, all right. Everybody just calm down. Now Kira I'll accept it one last time but next time your creative writing assignment better be your own story that DOESN'T have to do with anything...THIS...Or will Yuko once again be SO disappointed that you have no story to tell?" Kira freezes at this and Akari suddenly stops smiling. He knows the teacher is using the one thing with power over him – His brother. The class murmurs as he hangs his head.

XXX

Damn teach. Doesn't even want to consider the possibility. Akari: "O come on Kira. Just because you tell an awesome story doesn't make it true. You should know that-" "AHO! Kira!" Kira spins around to see Hakudoshi and his posse there. "Another brilliant report on a non-existent entity." O shut up, Aho! "I'm sorry did…Did you just call ME aho?" Kira realizes his mistake too late as he is blitzed by a punch. "That precious Kyuubi of yours doesn't exist – Get that through your head!" He kicks Kira. "Hakudoshi, stop!" "You stay out of this, Akari!" Kira has had it. He tries to attack Hakudoshi. A gathering of students watches. A weak punch is easily blocked. Kira charges at him but the bully gives him an elbow and as he falls, sticks his foot on him. "Weak. You couldn't handle the 9-tails even if he WAS real." He and his posse lay a few more punches on him before they leave. Akari: "Kira…" I'm fine. "Listen. Maybe if you just…stopped being so public about your belief in the legend of Naruto then you could-" Never! Mark my words –I'm gonna find proof someday the legend is real. I don't know how but I will meet Kurama and show him an Uchiha can be his friend too! Kira storms off.

XXXXXX

An angered look on his face, Kira goes home, stomping all the way. He comes to the point where he and Akari had been discussing Kurama earlier that day, and stops when he sees a small hole. Am…am I wrong? I have this feeling like I'm right but…what proof exists? He's so mad. He's had it with everyone teasing him and – He snaps. Damn Kyuubi! You know, maybe they're right! Perhaps Saske was right too – He's nothing but a curse! And…And this is all Yuko's fault for filling my head with impossibilities of finding him! Ya! Forget the 9-tails! I'll find another dream! Kira is kicking the small whole and realizes it's getting bigger. Ya, see? I'll train and get stronger, and beat that baka Hakudoshi all on my own- Kira isn't sure if he means what he is saying but the hole is getting bigger now as his anger grows. From a distance Akira watches, concerned, before walking away, not seeing Kira give a final kick before…My own story will be-…the ground gives way.

Kira falls into a cave below the street. What the hell? His whole body hurts. He groans to get back up after the fall. And he eyes the light coming from the hole he fell through. He looks around the place, for a second forgetting his rage. Awesome. I can use this place as a hideout. I can train here…Have a safe haven. I can… He remembers his earlier words. I will become stronger down here. I will find my own path. One that doesn't involve wasting my life searching for that non-existent Kyuu- He stops short.

This can't be.

There's no way.

That's not real. Kyuu-Kyuu-..BI?

But it is. As Kira finishes perusing his new secret area and is about to swear off his dream for good, he notices a giant shape and as he walks closer there's no more denying it. It's him. Just frozen there. And Kira was about to admit they'd never meet. Is this what they call destiny? I just knew it. I don't know how but I knew it. The reality bending stone brought him to MY universe. But then where's-? Kira stares at the Kyuubi, now just feet away, and eyes the green stone he is holding. The Relity Bending Stone. Just...right there. No way... All his anger is gone now as it changes to amazement. He's real. Kurama is right before his eyes. Okay now how do I- Finally reacting, Kira takes a normal rock and throws it at the stone. Kira knows not to touch it but wants to see if doing this will-

The stone dislodges. Oh…ow. God that hurt. Kira falls back in shock. Years of wanting to meet Kurama and now he just wants to run. What the…Where am I? Where did that stone take me? You there, talk! He points to Kira with his giant hand, maintaining bijuu mode, as it appears his chakra was restored after the trip…Wait…Where's Naruto? HEY! Answer my questions! Kira faints.

XXXXXX

Kira wakes up turned the other way, takes a deep breath and: Okay. I'm gonna turn around and if Kurama is there...I'M NOT GONNA FREAK OUT. You mean like how you fainted a few minutes ago? Shocked, Kira finds the will to stand and turn around and starts and: He's not here.

Kira explains that in this world he and Naruto are nothing more than a story. What? He continues about his own life and how he obsessed over finding the beast for so long. He knows who Kurama is from start to finish, shocking the Kyuubi. So how do I get back to Naruto?

Kira stops short of explaining his own intentions - The ones to befriend Kurama and convince him to stay and fight for peace in HIS world. I…I don't know. Kurama senses he was not getting the whole truth, but also that this wasn't a lie. He already knows this is NOT the world the stone originated from originally, so it would make sense if Kira had no clue. Whatever. Let's go. I need to- What? You can't go outside like this! This world thinks you're a fake story! There'd be mass hysteria…Worse than when you attacked the Hidden Leaf all those years ago! WHAT? YOU'RE INSANE UH…Um-" Kira. Kira- Stops short. He's not ready to reveal his last name just yet. -The Naruto of this universe!

Kurama remarks at this. Naruto of this universe? Ya right! If what you say is true you're weak and don't even have anything other than taijutsu. You certainly couldn't handle me. Wanna bet? Because that's the only way you're gonna to be able to get out of here without causing a panic! Kurama contemplates this. Fine but don't forget. If you're lying I'll break right out and kill you. No...summoning contract? I don't know you! Oh ya. Anyway that won't be necessary… He looks down at the ground. Then back to Kurama. Kurama recognizes that look…And is shocked. Why is this kid trying so hard to be like Naruto? Giant smile on Kira I'm going to…To make you MY friend too. Believe it! Kurama doesn't know what to think but with no idea how to get back and no sign of Naruto or even Saske…He holds his hand out to fist bump. Kira looks at the gesture and moves toward it, but...NO. What? That's not right. Kira pauses before offering Kurama his hand instead. In this world, a handshake is a sign of respect. Let's do that instead. Odd. This world is going to be very different, isn't it? He takes the hand with his giant hand, seemingly crushing it but…Instead both are shocked as all of Kurama's chakra explodes into Kira, knocking him out.

XXX

He wakes up, tired and aching. Kira looks around at the empty cave. He feels strange. But then it hits him: There was no Kyuubi - It was all a dream. That's it then. No more 9-tails for me.

XXXXXX

Today I want to present- Kira is interrupted by his teacher. Again. "If you're about to try to convince us that the legend of Naruto is real again, you can just take your seat now, Kira." Again. Kira sighs. Nope. Not this time. Kira goes on to present a totally different project, about Tokyo and population types. "Well um…That was actually very good, Kira!" Ya, well...I gave up on pursuing my dream last night. The class stands shocked, especially Akari "Well…that's not QUITE what I wanted! I just wanted you to have a realistic dream. If you're into foxes you could-" There's no point…We're all just gonna die anyway. Kira walks back to his seat. The class fixated on him. This wasn't Kira. "Kira, what the hell?" Akari asks. Kira get angered. I fell down a hole yesterday and had a dream I met Kurama, okay? Then I woke up and up and realized it was just that - A dream! It always is! The class is still in shock. Kira is in clear disappointment. I'll find my own way. Hakudoshi smiles and laughs.

XXX

Gym glass. Rope climbing. Kira hates it. He's up the rope in two seconds flat. What happened? Why is he suddenly so good? Balance beam. Kira's usually good here, but today he's at an elite professional's level. Running. He despises running. Always breaks a sweat. And he's so slow. But not today. In fact, he's running faster than the entire class…including Hakudoshi...without even slightly tiring. What's going on? Why is he so good today? It can't be Kurama...That wasn't real. Or...Was it?

XXX

Damn Gym class. Doesn't even present a challenge anymore. Akari: "O come on Kira. Just because…Well. You should know that- Okay, I got nothing. Seriously how did you-" "AHO! Kira!" Kira spins around to see Hakudoshi and his thugs there. Again. "Where was your brilliant report on the non-existent entity?" Shut up…Aho. "I'm sorry did…Did you just call ME aho? Again?" Kira perks up. Yes. Yes I did. A crowd has gathered. Again. Kira thinks for a second and: Kurama DOES exist – and I'll prove it someday! Get THAT through your head. Teachers and students look on as Hakudoshi throws a punch, which Kira easily dodges. I'm warning you stop now. I...I think it won't go like last time. He tries to kick Kira. "Hakudoshi, stop!" You stay out of this, Akari! Again. Kira has had it...Again. He tries to attack Hakudoshi. Yet again. Kira trips Hakudoshi and:

A strong punch lands. Hakudoshi gets up and charges at him but Kira gives him an elbow and as he falls, sticks HIS foot on HIM. "Who's weak now?" Hakudoshi lays on the floor and his posse attacks. Again. "Kira!" I'm fine. He attacks the group with swift speed, powerful punches and kicks, and the group can't even land one hit on Kira. The teachers aren't doing anything because honestly…They are thrilled Kira is standing up for himself for once and beating down this bully…Just as long as this is the only time. But then: Mark my words – I KNOW the legend is real! I will bring peace to us! Kira starts to storm off but…"Akari, come on. I'm-" He turns around smiling. "I'm feeling better now!"

XXX

The library. Kira is studying all he can about what might happen to a person like him if one day he gained the power of a tailed beast. In the new mindscape, Kurama watches as Kira studies him. A strange setup we have here, Kira. But I need to first make sure I know who you are. Says Kurama to himself.

XXX

Kira is walking home, notes in his arms. He eyes where the hole was. It's been covered up, but it needs more to be hidden. For now though it will have to do. Kira descends the tunnel to the cave and – Summoning jutsu – Kurama! Nothing. Summoning jutsu – Kyuubi! Kurama isn't sure. Should he cut the plan short and come out? Come on, Kurama help me out! Give me some of your power or you're gonna be trapped in me forever! Now, summoning jutsu - KURAMA! Deciding he DOESN'T want to be stuck in there he obliges, and Kira shoots back, a steady stream of light emitting from his hands as Kurama materializes before him in Bijuu form. I'm really going have to train you a bit, aren't I? Otherwise you'll- Kira faints. Do that...

XXX

Kira wakes up. Kurama is lying next to him in his reduced size. Heh. About time you woke up. Hope you don't mind that since you were weak I made up my own summoning contract for you to use…For now. I'll just end it when I get back to Naruto. I guess It's the only way someone like you will be able to summon me. Kira had NOT expected this, but the ability to summon Kurama, however temporary it was, was to cool to pass up.

XXX

The surface. Having discussed details, the two had come to the agreement that Kurama would be permitted to walk around freely, but on one condition – They had to pass him off as a "normal" kyuubi. This meant he couldn't talk and Kira had to commit to saying this new, amazing species was NOT the legendary Kurama, despite being a 9-tailed fox that looked like him. And by no means were they to use his powers or even show his intellect. Not yet. Kurama hated this but he agreed because this world would panic more than when Konoha thought he was evil. Still...it went about as smooth as you'd think.

XXX

Within days, worldwide news organizations were interviewing Kira about the 9-tailed fox he had discovered which bore a perfect resemblance to Kurama. Kira even said he named the fox that because of it. Scientists were all over his hidden cave trying to find clues about him, with no luck. Conspiracy theorists believed he was THE nine-tails. But Kira kept insisting he wasn't, despite his looks, pretending that he was only about as smart as a dog with basic training. While Kurama hated to do it, he stayed silent and acted as if he was dependent on the boy…Like he was a pet. But...At night: And what was with the leash today? I'm no dog! I am the- I know I know…But this isn't your world. It's totally different. If we told THIS world they'd be terrified! Mass panic a million times more than even your attack on the Hidden Leaf...Trust me this is just better until we decide how to get you home.

XXX

The next day at a press conference on the discovery of a new species, likely the last of it's kind, and with Kira refusing to submit it for scientific testing on the worry they would learn the truth (That Kurama was chakra given a semi-physical form), Kira finally ended the curiosity after a few weeks. Look. Just let this rare type of fox be. He's attached to me and he's not going anywhere. I don't know how long he's got left but as the discoverer of him he's mine! I'll let you know when I feel ready to let you investigate him…More questions. More light flashes. But…

XXXXXX

This was the fast paced world. A new animal species only held the news for so long, no matter how amazing. So while Kira still got the occasional request to closely examine Kurama, things actually calmed down as his five seconds of fame ended. Phew! I'm glad that's over! Kira looks to Kurama, who is in a bad mood. Of course, some day we're gonna have to tell the truth. Work up to it though. Especially if you want to use your full Bijuu form…And not be treated like a pet. Trust me I don't like doing it. Kurama looks at him. This wasn't anything like he had wanted. Then again now he thought he knew why. Ya, well…I've learned not to expect anything good from an Uchiha. He doesn't know which one, but with all the news about them some form of media must have used his last name and Kurama overheard. He gets down on his knees right in front of Kurama NO NO NO NO NO! PLEASE, YOU HAVE NO IDEA! Kira spills everything he knows. He is corrected by Kurama many times as the two piece together the full story. Kira even tells Kurama of his brother and himself, to which Kurama can't help but wonder...

You're trying to tell me the legend says that the night I left…Saske acknowledged me? Yes. Kurama, Uchiha is just a name to me. Don't say that. But it's true! I still believe I am the NARUTO of this universe! But...maybe I can be the SASKE of this universe too? Imagine, a ninja with the best of both worlds! Kurama hadn't looked at it like that. He laid down on his, well… Ah! Damn dog bed! You…could sleep on my bed at the foot if you want. Not a chance. The one time I did that I was attacked by Naruto. Kira looked at Kurama apologetically. Sorry I just thought…No one wants to be alone. Kurama realizes this and replies with I know…But that's why I have to get back to Naruto.

X

Warui, a traitorous ninja of Konoha, stands looking over this new world. "Finally…A chance to remake the world in my image and do what Saske could not...Once I dispose of this new jinchuriki, of course…"

XXXXXX

Okay so…Not quite how I originally planned this to go down, but putting my idea into a story was harder than I thought. Especially since I'm trying to work off an already existing character (It's easier to write your own idea that YOU created...Take it from a screenwriter. Maybe it'll get easier in future chapters as my story REALLY begins but...This setup WAS needed. In any case now Kira and Kurama are set up and they'd better be ready because in the next chapter…They have to fight their first bad guy together! More importantly though, Kurama will have to make a decision…A BIG decision. Get ready!

"You should probably tell them what's going on back in Naruto's world too". Huh? Oh right! Almost forgot about that! And remember Naruto's lines aren't italicized anymore.

XXX

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"I did it!" Naruto comes blazing around the corner. "I did it! I focused the power of whatever that stone was! It's only good for a little while, but I can bring Kurama home!" Everyone runs to the portal but…The portal is gone. Footsteps lead up to it. "Naruto…" "Ya Saske?" "I can restore this portal ONE MORE TIME. I'm sure of it." "Well, do it! I need to know who it was that went through!" Shikamaru: "What a drag…It was that guy Warui probably. We've had our eyes on him for a while but he never made a move…until now." "WHAT? Tell me everything on this guy!" Naruto demands. Everyone but Saske, Neji, and Sakura walk away. Saske: "Kurama…What if I can't save you like you saved me?" Sakura is in shock. Neji is concerned all he sees is the leftover energy from the Reality Bending stone fading. "Okay so basically, Warui is a version of the long-gone Saske that was bent on destroying and remaking the world...Except unlike Saske he has no heart and won't be coaxed to our side as UNLIKE Saske or even the tailed beasts, he was never good to start with..."

END OF CHAPTER 1