Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto, all rights goes to Kishimoto.

ITALICS – thinking

BOLD – jutsu/demon talk

Arc One: A Warrior's Path

Chapter Eight


Journal Entry 285, Six Months since the Discovery

Six months it has been since I found Masamune's blade, and what a six months it has been. Once I exited the stairwell, which was hidden behind a false stone at the top of the mountain, I had to descend a little before I finally arrived back at my cave. Surprisingly, Yuki was there sleeping on the scrolls, like a guard dog…err…I meant fox. She was surprised to see me and happily yipped and gave me all the attention in the world.

My training in the samurai arts still continues, and I have even started to pick up on the ways of old as was stated in Masamune's library. It is strange really, to know that I can diminish my Ki to almost nothing. Do you know how empty, how unprotected and alone it feels, when this happens? To me, the samurai have grown complacent with this source of power in order to make up for what they lost when the shinobi came. If I do become leader of Iron Country, a place which I am starting to call home, the ways of old will be taught once again.

On another note, Kyuubi has been quite the nag lately. For one, the fox is being particularly nice to me which I find rather distracting. Has my guard diminished though? No. For I am a samurai, and one who loses their guard is dealt a swift death.


Naruto waited in the trees with his bow drawn. One eye was closed, the other was affixed on its target; the string of the bow was pulled up to the back of his right ear. Naruto slowed his breathing and slowly adjusted his trajectory then waited until the wind died down. He timed his heartbeats so that he could shoot in-between them. With a very silent twang, the arrow was launched at its target. A small squeal in the distance signaled that the target had been hit. With a nod and a smile on his face, Naruto jumped out of the tree he was in and prayed to the rabbit he had just killed.

"I thank you for supplying me the food I need to survive, may you rest peacefully."

It was then, that Yuki trotted up with the fresh kill in her mouth where she dropped it at Naruto's feet then yipped, a smile forming on her face.

"Yes Yuki, you will get the innards and the bones to gnaw on." Naruto said as he took the arrow out of the body before putting it in the quiver on his back. "After all, no part of the animal can go to waste."

As he put his bow on his back, then took out his skinning knife from his bag, Naruto heard whispers which travelled thanks to the wind. Curious, he told Yuki to check it out before he decided to try and get close. Said fox nodded and ran towards the two figures, doing her best to act like a wild animal foraging for food.


"Aside from the minor mishap almost three years ago, everything is on track. We are ready to commence the attack whenever you please…Tobi." Takeshi said to the man in front of him, a stoic look on his face.

"Good, but to rush in now would leave the boy on the mountains unaware of his master's demise." A demented smirk formed beneath the orange, spiraled mask. "You want him at his weakest yes?"

Takeshi nodded in response which made Tobi's smile even wider, and his Sharingan to spin wildly.

"Hai, I would like to see my brother's shocked face as I ram my katana through his heart…much like he did to his wife."

Any other talk was halted as they saw an arctic fox hop out of the woods and stop near them where it started to dig for food. After a couple minutes, Yuki scampered off as it got all it needed from the tree line. With a shrug, not thinking much of it, the conspirators started talking once again.

Meanwhile with Naruto, he put the now skinned rabbit in an empty pouch on his side just as Yuki came into view. As the fox yipped what she heard, Naruto's eyes went cold and his body tensed, his right hand gravitating towards the Honjo without pause. With a silent, cold gaze to Yuki, Naruto jumped into the trees and decided to get as close as possible. The fox understood the message; stay here.

"Yuki heard something about my master and katana, I hope it isn't what I fear."

After a couple minutes, Naruto brought his Ki down to minimal, almost non-existent levels, and watched the two talk. Once he saw the man in the orange mask, however, Kyuubi went off.

"That's the bastard who controlled me! Kit, whatever you do, DO NOT face him."

Naruto silently nodded but memorized the person so that if they met again, he would at least be somewhat prepared. The other person gave Naruto a shock as he remembered him from what his master said about his past.

"That's Master Harumasa's brother…what is he doing here, and why is he with the man who ruined my and Kyuubi's life?"

As Naruto stopped his thoughts to listen, Takeshi let out a chuckle before he responded to whatever Tobi said.

"I know you want the boy to yourself as he holds the final key in your plans, but with the war that is about to come, I get first dibs. If he dies, you will just have to postpone your plans."

"The number of years for the Kyuubi to reform is unknown," Tobi's eyes narrowed in anger. "Don't make me kill you where you stand. Better yet, just remember who taught your followers the shinobi way."

"Fine, I rough up the boy a bit then transfer him over to you." Takeshi replied with great disdain, though he had no choice but to comply. "Just remember, that once I become leader of Iron Country, nothing will stop us from taking over the Elemental Nations."

The orange masked man nodded then looked at where Naruto used to be at.

"A certain fox has overheard…you know what to do." With that, Tobi left via Kamui

As Naruto hopped from tree branch to tree branch, he cursed and quickly motioned for Yuki to follow him.

"I need to prepare…knowing that masked bastard was an Uchiha, I was likely found out."

Kyuubi grinned in its cave, "A note to Mifune and Fukui wouldn't hurt either."

Naruto simply nodded as he arrived at his makeshift home where he quickly sat down and wrote out two notes before using some sinew to tie them to Yuki.

"Yuki, I need you to go as fast as possible to where Mifune and my master is. They will either be in the leader's tower or a tea shop." He pushed his companion along. "Now go!"

The fox looked at Naruto and yipped in acknowledgment before it sped off, down the mountain. Once Yuki was gone, Naruto started to meditate on possible ideas and what enemies he would face. After ten minutes, he got up with a grin and started to prepare even though he had little resources to make traps with.

"If these guys know shinobi tactics, then it wouldn't hurt if I did a little deceiving myself. Though not honorable, I must use my environment to my advantage."

And with that, Naruto got to work.


Iron Country – Village Tea Shop

It took about half the day for Yuki to run down the mountain, but once she did she quickly scampered through the gates which took the guards for surprise. Why? It was rare for an arctic fox to suddenly run into human territory. The only reason it did was either one of two things. One, it was being chased or two, it was a familiar to someone. The guards, not taking any chances, nodded to each other and stood at the ready just in case.

At the tea shop, Mifune and Fukui Harumasa was enjoying their tea while they reminisced about the past even though some of it was grim. As they did, a small commotion at the front of the store almost made them spit out their tea. Luckily, they swallowed the scalding hot beverage before they could. As they got up and walked to the front of the store to see what all the hubbub was about, they saw a scared fox which was ready to be skinned by the owner of the store.

"Stay your hand!" Mifune roared out which silenced the place.

The owner nodded and set the poor animal down which quickly hid behind Mifune's legs. It did give a slight peek, make that death glare, at the owner, however, before Yuki hid again. The leader of Iron Country chuckled at the act then picked up the fox only to notice notes tied to its back.

"Now what is a fox doing all the way over here? Hmm." Mifune thought aloud, then he smiled as he knew who did. "Is Uzumaki-san your master?"

Yuki cocked her head in confusion which made the patrons go "ah" at how cute she looked. Fukui interrupted with a smile.

"My master meant to say Naruto." Fukui interrupted as he petted behind the fox's ears. "Was he the one who sent you?"

Yuki, although enjoying the ear rubs, nodded and yipped which prompted Mifune to take the two papers. Once the elder put the fox back on the ground, it instantly sat on its haunches and waited patiently.

Mifune-dono,

This message is of the utmost importance. While hunting I saw two persons talking to each other. One was my master's brother, the other was a man in an orange mask. I know who this masked person is, but due to safety I will not divulge what I know until I return in a year and a half. What I can give, is that Takeshi is planning to take over Iron Country and to change the way of the samurai. I will give you more details when I return, but I will end with this. Underhand tactics bring no honor.

The Fox in the Snow

Fukui, who read this over Mifune's shoulders, subconsciously started to rub his temples as this whole situation was one big headache. "Well, this is just great, and I know what those last five words meant. Did you master?"

Mifune nodded then folded the note up again. "Yes, and to think that someone has taught those tactics to the samurai." His anger filled words put the patrons on edge. "All of them are traitors and will be dealt with in the highest degree."

After a pause, Mifune told Yuki to head back to Naruto with the message that they have received it and will act accordingly. Once gone, the other message was about to be opened until they saw it was labeled Sandaime. Deciding to send this later, Mifune motioned for his old student to follow as an emergency meeting had to be held. It was time for the commanders to gather once again.


It didn't take long to organize the entire council as there was three people, four if Harumasa was included. All wore the standard Iron Country armor minus the helmet, except Mifune and Fukui who decided to wear traditional samurai armor like Naruto's. The only difference was his was an olive green color while Fukui's was a dull red.

In the middle of the room was a circular oak table with simple oak chairs around it. Although the room was Spartan in design, it had many maps posted on the walls. These maps were highly detailed ones of Iron Country and of the Elemental Nations if they ever had to break their neutrality. One thing to note was the room had no windows and had a very heavy wooden door and reinforced walls so that no eavesdroppers could hear what was happening inside. One by one, the commanders came in and promptly sat down, but not before they bowed to Mifune and Fukui Harumasa in respect.

The first to come in was the same age as Mifune, but despite his age he looked very healthy. He stood almost six feet tall, had a slightly muscular frame, and a royal looking face. His skin was tan, adorned with various wrinkles and liver spots, and had a nasty scar which went across his nose like Iruka's. His hair was salt-and-pepper and tied in a topknot. This man was Hiroto Fujiwara, a veteran of both the first and second civil wars.

The next to enter was about Harumasa's age and height. His hair was black and set in a topknot. His skin was fair and seemingly unblemished, but if one looked closely, they could see the start of the aging process as wrinkles were beginning to develop. Like Hiroto, he too had a royal looking face, and, in all honesty, looked fit to be a daimyo rather than a samurai commander. This man was Takuma Akahoshi, a veteran of the second war, and one who fought side by side with Fukui.

The last to enter was the youngest of them all. He was 50 years of age and was of small stature, but don't let that fool you. For a short guy, he was well built and had a defined jaw line with various scars on his face. Like the others in the room, his eyes were coal black, but there was one difference. His eyes looked like they were staring into someone's soul. Although he only saw the end of the second civil war and had to get put on medical leave due to surviving an explosion, hence the scars on his face, he was a well-respected samurai. This man's name was Hideki Shumazu, aka The Shinigami.

Mifune cleared his throat once everyone got settled.

"Fellow samurai, we have known about the tensions in our snow covered mountains not long after Fukui Harumasa retired, but now those tensions have given rise to another civil war." Mifune stated in a somber tone then pointed to the paper that was being passed around. "That message you have just read was by our newest samurai in training. My student, if you would do the honors?"

Fukui bowed and thanked his master before he began the tale about how he met Naruto and how his training has gone, up until the mountains that is.

"Right now, my student is taking the last of his training on the mountains and I have no doubt that he will help lead us to victory." Fukui stated, but clarified one point in particular. "Yes, his darkness is still present, but we have all fought our inner self have we not? And in a war no less."

The three commanders nodded with a grim smile on their face, but it was Hiroto who brought up his concern. His voice was deep yet gravelly sounding.

"The Akuma no Senshi, eh? Quite a befitting moniker for the boy, but perhaps you are giving your student too much credit." Hiroto said, concern evident in his deep, yet gravelly voice. "The strongest of the nine dwells within the child, and I fear that he will sooner turn on us then the enemies before him."

"Silence your tongue Fujiwara-dono!" Hideki interrupted before Fukui and Mifune could go off. Though he was agitated, his soft yet deep voice made it hard to tell. "We haven't even met this boy and he already brings us an advanced warning of what is to come. Yet, you wish to squander our hope of making short work of this civil war?!"

Takuma huffed and crossed his arms across his chest, obviously not pleased with his fellow commander's rash judgement.

"To change topics, what troubles me is this masked man who possibly taught Takeshi's followers the shinobi way." Takuma gave a heated glare to Fujiwara. "You fail to realize, Fujiwara, that the boy grew up in a shinobi village and has trained, no less, how to counteract their tactics. Out of all of us, you and Mifune are the only ones to actually fight a battalion of them."

Hiroto grumbled, and looked at the ceiling as he knew he was beat, an act which made Mifune and Fukui smile. For the latter, that smile soon turned into a sigh as he knew what he had to do.

"Commanders, master or general, I know I have been retired for some time, but I humbly ask that I be reinstated." This earned shocked expressions from everyone else in the room. "I simply wish to teach my student as the war erupts so that when the icy talons of death finally take me away, his full transformation will be complete."

Mifune recovered first by leaning back into the seat knowing the decision he was about to make wouldn't be easy.

"If this is to go after your brother, I cannot allow it as revenge is…"

"Goddammit master!" Fukui interrupted and leveled his cold eyes at Mifune. "I have studied Bushido ever since I could read and continued to do so even after I cowardly ran away from my burning home. And do you know what I regret most about that day, other than I could have fought to protect my parents and brother?"

A heavy silence fell over the meeting room, the only sound being the retired samurai taking a deep calming breath.

"My biggest regret is not killing my brother in the second war." He said, his voice cold yet filled with determination. "It lead to the death of my wife and years of traversing the Elemental Nations with that painful memory in my skull!"

Mifune looked at the floor in sadness as he thought back to his own past and couldn't help but agree with what his student said. Mifune understood that he was perhaps a bit too quick to judgement when it came to Fukui. After a moment of silence, the elder stood which prompted the others to follow along.

"Although not the meeting we hoped for, it would be in our best interest to stay vigilant as gathering a mass force will only lead Takeshi to know we are on to him, dismissed."

As the commanders walked out of the door, Fukui and Mifune looked at each other, their eyes showed the many burdens they carried to get where they were today. A simple nod by the Iron Country's leader made a small smile come to Fukui's face, but it was brief. As master and student parted ways, Mifune couldn't help but feel stupid for saying what he did. He hoped that his words would not pull their bond apart.


With Naruto

Naruto double checked that everything was set before he double checked his bow and the arrows he made. Nodding in satisfaction, he made sure his armor was secure and that his swords were on his right side. Just as he was about to stay in the cave and wait, Naruto's instincts told him otherwise. Remembering his master's teachings, Naruto followed them and climbed the rocky face of the mountain once he was out of the cave while Yuki burrowed in the snow for protection and as a distraction if needed. Although it took almost thirty minutes to get to a spot where he could get a good shot off, Naruto smiled as he sat down on the flat rock which overlooked his cave and the forest below. Not even five minutes later, voices could be heard followed by the crunch of snow.

Taking a deep breath, Naruto scanned for signatures just as the sun began to set behind him.

"One, two, three, four, well shit…this could be a problem. 10 on one." Before Kyuubi could retort, Naruto smiled "A worthy challenge…let's see how far I've come."

Currently, the group was arguing about Naruto's whereabouts as they couldn't sense his signature which made Naruto let out a small chuckle, and mentally thanked Masamune's scrolls for the Ki training. Soon, the group was in range which made Naruto's eyes narrow in determination. Taking an arrow from the quiver on his back, the one he made from live tree branches, deer hide, and sinew a month after he returned from Masamune's home, he notched it and pulled the string behind his right ear. Like hunting, Naruto made sure his aim was true, that the wind had died down, and his heartbeats were counted.

Ba-dump. Ba-dump. Ba-dump.

Ba-dump. Ba-dump. Ba-dump.

Ba-dump. Twang. Ba-dump.

The arrow was now in the air, and headed towards its first target.


Konoha – Hokage Office, Hours Later

The sun had almost set which meant Nagato was about to head home for the night. Just as he was about to leave the office, however, a pecking at the window caught his attention. After letting the bird in, he took the message off of its leg before shooing it away. After seeing Sandaime written on it, he had one of his paths fetch Hiruzen. It wasn't long until a puff of black smoke signaled that he arrived.

"You called Nagato?"

"Hai Sandaime-dono, this came in for you and I suspect it is from Naruto." The Godaime said as he passed the Sarutobi the letter whom quickly snatched it up.

Being the first message he had recivied from his surrogate grandson since he left, Hiruzen made sure to read it aloud so that the other Uzumaki could hear.

"Hey gramps, man it feels weird not being formal. Anyway, I am sorry that I haven't sent you updates, but I have been busy training up on the mountains of Iron Country. I am alone, but have an arctic fox called Yuki for company. This will likely be the only message you receive from me, I'm afraid, as the war drums are beginning to beat. Don't worry about me, I will make it out OK. But, in the off chance I do not, know that I fought and died with honor. Also, at your request, I would like to be buried here in Iron though I am an Uzumaki at heart, Iron Country is now my home."

Both occupants in the office sighed and shed a few tears of joy. After they wiped them away they gave each other a smile.

"Naruto has sure grown up in those two and a half years huh." The Sandaime stated which earned a nod from Nagato.

"Hai, and I hope he comes out of the war alive."

"Indeed." Hiruzen started but then turned to more serious matters. "How has the treaties with Suna and Kumo gone?"

Nagato smiled, "Passed. It wasn't hard really. I show them my six paths, and strike the fear of Kami into their hearts; it really quickens the process."

The Sandaime chuckled at this then thought about the changes to the academy ever since Nagato was put in office.

The academy still had a graduation age of 12, but now the students were doing D-rank missions and rotated with various Sensei. These Sensei taught them chakra control up to water walking, helped them find their elemental affinity, and taught them a few element based ninjutsu as well as other necessary ones. Some Sensei were specialized in taijutsu, others in kenjutsu, and Jiraiya actually started a fuinjutsu program for those interested. For those that have certain specialties, having the qualities of a medic for example, they would be put in an apprenticeship program after graduation. The reason for this? Nagato knew that Tobi was a powerful enemy and thus wanted his village to be prepared.

The two Kage talked well into the night about making improvements to the village, about the past, or any topic worth interest. Although they chatted, their mind was focused on one person in particular.

Naruto Uzumaki, the Akuma no Senshi.


Naruto – Hours Before

The arrow was now in the air, and headed towards its first target. Naruto did not hesitate to get another arrow ready, however, as he knew they could knock them out of the air. Luckily the first one hit its mark. The person to the right of the leader of the group suddenly stiffened and fell to the ground like a wooden plank. The cause of death? An arrow in-between the eyes. The sight of one of their own dying so suddenly made the group scatter into the small forest behind them. They hoped the cover was enough, but, unknown to them, it was the worst possible decision.

Naruto aimed to where most of them went, to the right, and fired his arrow into the woods were he set up a simple tree branch trap with some sinew. Although a small target, Naruto's arrow managed to sever the sinew which sent a branch careening towards two of the members. One managed to jump in time while the other was sent flying through the air. Naruto took advantage and quickly notched another arrow and fired. The aim was true and pierced the man through the Adam's apple. Sadly, that is where Naruto's luck run out.

A shout of Great Fireball was heard followed by incoming heat. Calmly, Naruto unsheathed his bokken, held it in front of him, added Ki to it then stood in a horse stance. The fireball hit the enhanced bokken which made the elemental attack split in two. Although surprised at this development, the five men continued to rush in to intercept Naruto. As the two halves of the fireball slammed into the side of the mountain, the cracking of ice and hardened snow was heard which prompted Naruto to get ready. Soon enough, an avalanche was headed towards him.

Adding Ki to his feet, Naruto jumped just as the avalanche ran over his position. The five attackers eyes widened and tried their best to run down the mountain to avoid it, but alas, they were crushed under the massive weight of the snow. For our samurai, he simply used the snow as one massive wave and surfed to where his cave was at.

"I give it a 10." Kyuubi suddenly proclaimed which made Naruto smirk.

"Thanks fluffy!"

As the bijuu grumbled about his nickname, Naruto had to block a punch to his abdomen. Using this, Naruto vaulted over the assailant then kicked him in the back of the head. Capitalizing on the stumble, Naruto twisted around, added Ki to his right hand, and performed a jab like Kakashi's Lightning Blade. Naruto's hand missed the intended target, but he did manage to amputate the attacker's right arm which started to bleed profusely from the stump.

"H-how?!" He stuttered out as the man held where his arm used to be.

"When one knows the extent of their Ki and of their blade, one can use almost anything as a weapon." Naruto replied in a battle-hardened tone, an emotionless smirk on his face.

Sensing a person behind him, Naruto ducked and let the man's comrade stab him in the heart.

"I will fucking murder you!" The attacker, enraged at what this boy made him do, tried to slice Naruto to bits.

Naruto sighed as he dodged the strikes, but he soon had enough. He got into the man's guard, grabbed the wrist which held the blade and broke it. After taking the sword, he quickly stabbed it in the man's heart, and left the blade inside the body as it fell.

"Only one left." Naruto looked at his surroundings. "Now where is he?"

Just as he said that, a harsh punch to the face sent Naruto flying. Luckily, he recovered with a backflip. After he cracked his neck, he saw his attacker who looked a lot more battle hardened than the other guys.

"I congratulate you on defeating my peons, but know that you will die here today."

Naruto decided to play along, "And yet your master says otherwise am I correct."

Although shocked by how this kid knew, the leader recovered quickly.

"Hmm, I guess you're right, but you know…I just don't give a shit."

"Kyuubi, I may need some help here."

"Yah, yah, I hear you…not like I got anything better to do. Not yet at least."The bijuu thought with an evil smirk at the end.

The leader quickly drew his katana to the point where Naruto almost couldn't track it. Luckily, he could and blocked it with his bokken. Seeing this made the leader smirk.

"Ah…you're just a samurai in training, though you don't use your katana. Why?"

"Honor dictates that I do not use such a weapon until my master passes me." Naruto grunted as he struggled to push the attacker's sword away. "Plus, why would I sully such a nice blade with a weak man such as yourself?"

The attacker froze in anger which made Naruto smirk. He decided to use one of his master's lines as he parried the sword, and smashed the pommel of his bokken into the man's face.

"Emotions can distract you from the fight and possible dangers around you."

Following up with the attack, Naruto got around to the leader's backside, added Ki to his bokken and sliced. A massive gash opened up which spurted blood, and made the man gasp in pain. An act which also made the man come to his senses. Just as Naruto was about to end it, he was hit with an unknown blast of wind which made him fly into the nearby forest. Quickly standing, he attempted to search for the man only to get punched in the face and the stomach before being grabbed by the neck and slammed onto a tree. After shaking his head from the blows, Naruto stood and quickly parried a sword strike but was unprepared for a clone to come up and kick him in the side of the head. Thanks to this, Naruto was stabbed in the stomach which made him puke out blood, even more so when it was twisted sideways.

"So kid, you have any last words?"

. "The demon is going to have some fun now." Naruto said with a slight chuckle as blood trickled down the corner of his lips

The leader was not prepared for a sudden energy spike in Naruto and was promptly flung backwards, the sword still imbedded in Naruto's stomach. As the red aura increased, the leader mumbled the same words the Root agent did.

"Akuma no Senshi!"

With a grunt, Naruto pulled the blade out of his stomach and, to the horror of his attacker, the wound healed almost instantaneously.

"Nice sword." Naruto stated with a feral grin, but was still in control. "Mind if I use it?"

The man whimpered and backpedaled to a nearby tree. "Stay back…please, I'm sorry, just leave me alone!"

Naruto shook his head as he slowly advanced, "Cowardice is not the way of Bushido, and do you know what happens when one breaks that code?"

The man nodded though his body still shook. Not thinking straight due to fear, the man pulled out a tanto which was strapped next to the katana which Naruto now held. Without a thought, the man stabbed himself in the stomach and slit it open. The man screamed in agony, but it was silenced as Naruto loped of his head.

"You have been forgiven." Naruto sighed and tried to deactivate Kyuubi's aura, but nothing was working. "Kyuubi what are you doing!"

"I told you to not let your guard down boy." The fox let out a small chuckle. "Now for your true test of loyalty."

Naruto gripped his stomach in pain as Kyuubi's influence got stronger. Thinking quickly, Naruto grabbed his bokken, sheathed it, and then ran back to his cave just as Kyuubi's influence was too much for him. With that, Naruto passed out and found himself in his mindscape.


Mindscape

"Why Kyuubi, I thought you wanted to turn over a new leaf?!" Naruto demanded as he stumbled up to the cave.

"I told you boy, this is merely a test to see if you're worthy to take my power and for us to fully cooperate in the future." Kyuubi let out a feral smirk. "Now, be a good boy and let me take over."

Naruto looked at Kyuubi with a lost expression, one which broke the bijuu's heart as it knew that a lot of rebuilding would need to be done after this. It was here that Naruto suddenly had images of his first kill and what recently took place. Although he tried to fight the influence by reciting Bushido over and over again, nothing seemed to work. Just as the Kyuubi was about to fully take over, a flash of yellow was seen in front of the cave which made the bijuu grin.

"Ah, the Yondaime has come to visit, I knew I sensed another signature inside the boy."

Minato narrowed his eyes and quickly placed a seal on his son to stop the Kyuubi's chakra from taking over. Once done, he turned to face Kyuubi.

"You better have a damn good explanation Kyuubi before I seal you up so tight, that you won't even be able to move a damn muscle!"

Naruto groaned then gasped at seeing his father. "Dad?"

Minato looked at his son then his eyes widened in shock as he just realized what he was wearing.

"Naruto, my son, why have you not become a shinobi? Didn't the village treat you with respect like I wanted?"

Said person shook his head, "No, but I am happy with becoming a samurai father. And Kyuubi was only testing me so that I can fully access its chakra without harm."

The Yondaime glared at Kyuubi, "Is this true?"

The beast nodded, "Hai, and it pained me to do that to your son." Kyuubi glanced sadly at Naruto."And I know that it will be a while until he forgives me for what I recently did."

Shocked at the compassion the bijuu spoke with, Minato couldn't help but start to believe his words.

"Son, what is your wish?" Minato said, making sure that Kyuubi's words were believable. "The decision is up to you."

Naruto smiled at the calm tone his father spoke in, "Yes. It might take me a while to trust Kyuubi again, but I do believe its words. Plus, if this will help me win the upcoming civil war in Iron Country, then please dad. Let me do this."

Minato sighed then walked up to the Kyuubi, looked at the seal on its neck, and tweaked it so the beast had free reign. Once done, he stepped back and smiled when a flash of red appeared beside him.

"Just in time Kushina-hime. Your about to watch our son become the perfect jinchuriki."

Kushina blinked then smiled at what Naruto was wearing, "Well, our sochi turned into a lady killer…he looks so cute dressed in that samurai armor." The Uzumaki paused then glared at Minato. "Oh Minato? Explain to me why our sochi is a samurai and not a shinobi."

The Namikaze gulped and backed up a little knowing that an Uzumaki temper was not to toy with. Needless to say, he gave a brief response based on what Naruto had already told him.


The Kyuubi roared and lunged at Naruto who rolled under the massive fox. As he rolled, he grabbed one of the tails which proved fruitless as he found himself smashed through a couple trees. Another roar made Naruto look up from the crater he was in, his eyes widening in response as Kyuubi was ready to bring a paw down upon his head. Like a splinter, Naruto jammed his Ki enhanced bokken into the paw before it could land which made the bijuu roar in agony. Pissed, the Kyuubi shot a stream of flames out of his mouth to incinerate the forest Naruto was hiding in. Knowing it was his mindscape, Naruto imagined a wall in front of him which protected him from any damage. Steeling his nerves, and tightening his hand on his bokken, Naruto dismissed the wall and added Ki to his legs as he ran towards Kyuubi. As the two made eye contact, both could feel each other's emotions. Naruto's was filled with determination, yet sorrow at what he was doing. Kyuubi's, to Naruto's utmost surprise wasn't filled with anger, but with pride and a deep sadness.

"I'm sorry Kyuubi." Naruto whispered as a tear ran down one of his cheeks, knowing his attack would bring immense pain to the bijuu.

With a frown, Naruto jumped into the air and quickly unsheathed his bokken which sent a wave of Ki directly into Kyuubi's eyes. Although the bijuu prepared for the pain that was to come, he didn't expect his container to aim for the eyes. To make it even worse, Naruto took his bokken and impaled it into his back. The Kyuubi's agonized roar shook the mindscape which made Kushina pause in beating Minato up, and Naruto to quickly jump off the bijuu's back, red chakra in his grasp.

"Do you know how much that hurt?!" Kyuubi yelled, pissed that he couldn't see. Now pull you stupid mortal, and don't let up. If you lose, I take over. If you win, you gain access to my powers, but you will need to train in them." A short pause. "Did I mention you could also die in this process?"

Naruto's eyes glistened with determination, "I don't care if I perish, but know that I will give my all."

The beast nodded and the tug of war began. Kushina, who just got done beating Minato for his stupid promise, lifted her husband up from the ground so that they could watch their son do what many thought was impossible. For what seemed like hours, the two struggled for dominance. At some points, Kyuubi's chakra almost took over Naruto entirely which made Minato and Kushina hold each other tightly. Luckily for them, he increased his Ki output and tugged harder each time which brought control back on his side. Getting his vision back slightly, Kyuubi looked down at his container with a sad expression.

"I hope you take advantage of what I am about to do, and for what it's worth, I am sorry for taking advantage of you this day."

As Naruto tugged again, his eyes widened as he felt no resistance. "Did the Kyuubi just do what I think it did?"

Not taking a gift horse in the mouth, Naruto let out a roar as he pulled with all his might. Soon, the red aura was floating in the air of the mindscape like one massive sun. It was then, that Naruto noticed Kyuubi's skin and bone looking frame.

"Kyuubi…no, what have I done?" He whispered as tears started to form.

"Don't feel bad as I will recover by time your training is over." Kyuubi said in a weak voice and mustered the best smile it could. "For now, learn to harness that power for your benefit." The bijuu took a deep breath, and said one final thing before it went to sleep. "Kurama is my name kit, and again I am sorry for what I have done today."

Naruto walked up to Kurama and placed a hand on his snout with a sigh. "I know what you had to do Kurama, I may not like it, but I know that in time all will be forgiven."

Seeing that it was over, Minato and Kushina walked up to Naruto and gave their son a hug. It was here, that Naruto finally felt what it was like to be in a parent's embrace. To him, it was the best feeling in the world. As they walked away from the cave where Kurama was resting, Naruto started to tell his parents about his life so far. Although disgusted by what the villagers did, they were happy that Naruto found a path that he enjoyed.

"Sochi." Kushina said in a motherly tone as she stroked Naruto's hair, "Although we will be leaving soon due to us running out of chakra, we want to know that no matter what you do we will always be proud."

Minato nodded, "Hai, and if you want to take up your master's surname that is fine by us."

Naruto's eyes widened as he never mentioned that. "You may have not said it outright, but it was implied." Minato squeezed Naruto's right shoulder with a smile. "Go on son, it is time for you to wake up while it is our time to vanish from this plane of existence."

Naruto cried tears of joy as he hugged his parents one last time.

"Thank you for everything Kaa-san, Tou-san."

Both kissed Naruto on the forehead, and said the same thing before they disappeared.

"Show the world what the Akuma no Senshi can do, goodbye sochi."

Naruto woke with a gasp and sputtered as he felt something wet on his face. As he looked to his right, he saw Yuki licking him in concern which brought a smile to his face. Seeing that Naruto was OK, the fox yipped and jumped into his lap which prompted Naruto to laugh and pick Yuki up.

"Yes Yuki, I am completely fine. In fact, I feel like a part of me has been completed, a certain void has been filled."

Meanwhile in Takeshi's hideout, he felt the ominous chakra of the Kyuubi and shuddered in fear.

"Could I have awoke the sleeping dragon? Kami help us if I did."


Time Skip – Year and a Half, Naruto is age 12

The final part of Naruto's training was the most difficult and taxing, and it was all thanks to trying to learn how to control Kurama's chakra. Although hard, the training did pay off as Naruto trained his body and mind to exhaustion every day with his demon cloak activated. Due to this, Naruto's physique had changed a lot.

He was now five feet tall, had a well-built frame that wasn't too muscular, but was a perfect balance for his style of fighting. Naruto's jaw line and facial features were just like his fathers, and the whisker marks on his cheeks darkened a little which made them stand out. His hair, when not in a topknot like it is now, looked exactly like Minato's but there was one difference. Thanks to gaining control of Kurama's chakra, Naruto now had red streaks in his hair.

Currently, he was packing up to descend the mountain which Yuki was glad to help with. Instead of Harumasa's armor on his person, Naruto wore a crude set of leather armor which he made from the many hides he has gathered over the years.

"So Kit, ready to get off this mountain and finally become a true Samurai?"

Naruto nodded with a smile. This was another thing that was worked on while training. Kurama woke up six months ago, and from then they rebuilt their relationship piece by piece. Now, Naruto and Kurama were almost inseparable and ready to show the world what they were made of. After a double check of his gear, Naruto smiled and motioned Yuki to follow as they started their descent. Instead of walking, however, Naruto added Ki to his body and decided to sprint all the way there.


Journal Entry 375 – Six Months after the Kurama Incident

I have lost track of time it seems as I continue to work on controlling Kurama's chakra. Every morning, I get up, stretch, and then meditate to access the power of the fox. Once I do, I go as high as I can then do physical exercise by scaling the steepest part of the mountain over and over again. I estimate that I can control about 25% right now, but I must be able to control this power fully before I return.

These six months have also helped me reflect on why Kurama did what he did. I wish for the fox to wake so we can have a face to face. I think it is time I forgave him for his actions. Perhaps he will help me control the power which used to be his.


Iron Country – Mifune's Office, Hours Later

Mifune, Fukui Harumasa, and the commanders were all in the office waiting for their samurai in training to come down the mountain. Although it usually took a day to descend at civilian speed, everyone knew that Naruto would do no such thing. And, as if their prayers were answered, a knock at the door was heard.

"Enter." Mifune proclaimed with a smile as he recognized the signature behind the door.

Naruto opened the door and blinked in shock at the three others in the room. Quickly recovering from this, he closed the door behind him then bowed to those he did not know. The commanders smiled at this then looked at Mifune who nodded as he decided to start the ceremony. As the leader went up to Naruto, his eyes widened as he noticed the katana the Uzumaki had.

"Dear Kami...how did you find the lost blade of Masamune?!"

All the elder samurai quickly snapped their gaze to Naruto which made said person blush in embarrassment.

"That will be a story for another time, but I believe we have more important matters to get to."

Naruto's master nodded towards Mifune who smiled, and unsheathed his katana.

"Kneel, young Uzumaki-san, and bow your head low."

Naruto did as told without fear. It was then he felt the katana being tapped on his shoulders.

"Naruto Uzumaki, by the power vested in me, I hereby enlist you as a samurai under my and your master's command."

Naruto stayed in his kneeled position and thanked Mifune before he was told to stand. He looked into the Iron Country leader's eyes which were stern and filled with pride. Mifune's tone was professional, yet stern.

"Before you take the next step in offering your services, you must perform a blood oath." Mifune ordered as he took his blade out of its sheath a little. "Now, slice your hand upon on my blade and hold it up for all to see."

Naruto did as told, not even flinching when the blade cut his right hand. As told, Naruto held it into the air and proclaimed his worth.

"I, Naruto Uzumaki, vow to follow Bushido, and to follow any order my general or master gives. I will protect Iron Country with my mind, my body, and my soul. If I so perish as a result, a great honor it would be. On my blood I swear."

Mifune nodded and sheathed his katana before motioning Fukui forward. With a smile, he walked in front of Naruto and took the bokken from his sash, and replaced it with a simple wakizashi. Master and student looked each other in the eyes, both held pride and a deep sense of loyalty.

"By the power vested in me as a master, I hereby congratulate Naruto Uzumaki on passing his training with flying colors." Fukui warmly said as he patted Naruto's shoulders. "Your warrior's path has just ended, but now a new one begins. Make all of Iron Country proud."

Naruto smiled and nodded then was motioned in front of Mifune once again.

"Now we can't have a new samurai go out in that crude armor." He said with mirth, then motioned behind his desk. "Go on, fellow samurai, try your new armor on."

Naruto nodded then looked at the armor which was an exact replica as the one his master gave him many years ago. Instead of red, it was olive green like Mifune's. As the armor was being put on, the elders clapped and patted Naruto on the back which made him smile.

"Well, you did it kit, how does it feel?"

"It feels like a burden has been lifted off my shoulders."

Just as Naruto put the last piece of armor on and was to turn and talk to the elders, the whole tower suddenly exploded in a massive fireball which put the entire village in shock as they knew of what was going on today. Many questions now filled their minds, however, one such question was the biggest of them all.

Did the occupants live, or did they perish in the fire?


Edited: 5/17/15

Total Word Count of Arc One: 53,427

Total MS Word Pages: 179

Average Chapter Length: 22.4 pages