AN: This one will be lengthy and the only one posted until the start of Arc 2. Now in the process of being edited, I would like to address just what Naruto is in this story. The list below might deter some from reading further, but I expected as such.

Naruto is a traditional samurai meaning kenjutsu and following the Bushido code.

Naruto WILL NOT become a shinobi and WILL NOT be using traditional shinobi techniques.

Instead of chakra, Naruto will utilize Ki (Chi) which he will learn more about near the end of Arc One.

Naruto will be mature for his age.

Like I said before, if the above does not suit you, then I kindly ask that you refrain from reading my story. Speaking of which, this story has a total of four arcs and an epilogue which means that progression will be slow at times.

All sword stances and such are real and have been heavily researched to ensure validity. Also, if any other author's ideas happen to end up in this story, it is purely coincidental. If they wish for me to recognize their idea and/or work then I will do so.

Lastly, this chapter might not be what one usually expects for an opening. I advise reading about three to four chapters in before deciding to continue or not. This story came at a time where my writing style was changing and I did my best to edit the missed details, bad grammar, sentence structure, etc. I thank you for the time for reading this AN, and the time you might be reading my Magnum Opus. Without further ado, I present to you The Akuma no Senshi!

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto. All rights belong to Kishimoto.

ITALICS – Thinking

BOLD – demon speak/jutsu

Arc One: A Warrior's Path

Chapter One

Naruto Uzumaki: jinchuriki to the Kyuubi no Kitsune, and the son of Kushina Uzumaki and Minato Namikaze.

He doesn't know these things yet, but had always wondered who his parents were and why the village seemed to hate him. He was never physically abused, mind you, in fact the villagers seemed content with their hate filled glares and whispers, among other acts at trying to make Naruto suffer. It was because of these callous acts that certain thoughts filled his six year old head. As he sat on the swing which hung from a tree branch not far from the academy, a six year old Naruto pondered on his life thus far.

He hated it, plain and simple.

As he looked towards the faces on the Hokage Monument, the Yondaime being the one which caught his gaze, Naruto couldn't help but wonder if the shinobi lifestyle was worth it. Hell, Naruto even wondered if this was even his home!

He began to swing as the first week of the academy passed him by. The memories further solidified the questions which plagued his mind. A mind that was not unlike the Nara's. Although the teachers didn't care about what they called the 'blonde menace,' one person did and understood Naruto very well.

The librarian.

With a smile, Naruto hopped of the swing and headed to the library in the hopes that his thoughts could be focused elsewhere. Perhaps even finding a new path to take.

As Naruto entered, he was greeted by an elderly woman with white, thinning hair, a fair amount of wrinkles, and a smile that was so infectious, that one couldn't help but smile back. It was one she gave Naruto as she paused in her book stamping.

"Ah, Naruto my boy, back again to get your mind off things?"

"Hai Megumi." Naruto said, but his smile wasn't fooling anybody.

With a sigh, Megumi put the stamp down and walked around her desk to give the blonde a comforting hug. Once done, she bent to Naruto's level which made her old knees crack and pop in protest. As Megumi stared into Naruto's dulled sapphire eyes with her own beady black orbs, she couldn't help but internally sigh at the story such eyes told.

"What seems to be the matter Naruto, you can tell this old grandma anything."

So Naruto did as told, and to say that Megumi was a bit miffed by what the villagers had done was an understatement. She knew of Naruto's burden as well as his parents, though Megumi knew it wasn't her place to tell. With a pat on Naruto's shoulders, Megumi stood and pointed towards the eastern section of the library.

"You should find what you are looking for over there, would you like me to escort you?"

Naruto shook his head as he replied. "Please sit Megumi, I don't know if your old bones could take much more."

With a smile, she ruffled Naruto's hair which made the boy chuckle. "For six years old, you are quite the gentlemen."

As Megumi headed back to her desk, she saw the stares of contempt some of the civilians sent Naruto's way. Saddened by the sight, Megumi couldn't help but shake her head in disbelief. As she sat down and picked up the stamp, Naruto had found what he was looking for and was searching for an empty desk to sit at. Once he did, Naruto opened the book and began to read.

A Samurai follows what is known as Bushido, seven principles or virtues every Samurai Warrior should live by and never stray from; rectitude, courage, benevolence, politeness, veracity, honor, and loyalty. To expand on this, the Samurai Warrior,

holds loyalty, courage, veracity, compassion, and honor as important, above all else,

has an appreciation and respect of life,

is deadly in combat and yet so gentle and compassionate with children and the weak,

strives for enlightenment for good judgment, personal growth, and self-awareness,

practices some type of martial art skill or something that helps him or her develop physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually,

uses Death as his or her advisor not his or her enemy,

seeks to understand the phrase, "Know thyself!" and,

seeks communal and family relationships and understanding the role of the servant and the master.

Failure to uphold this code, the Samurai is tasked with taking his own life.

Naruto looked up from the book and rubbed his temples in deep thought and confusion. Due to his age, most of this was hard to understand. After a long break, Naruto started to read again where he found that samurai worked directly under the Daimyo and was loyal only unto them. It was a fact that made Naruto smile, one which was erased as he thought back to Bushido. With a shrug, Naruto closed the book and checked it out with Megumi. As he ran towards the Hokage Tower in the hopes that his Ji-Ji would know of a samurai trainer, Naruto couldn't help but feel happy.

A feeling which he hadn't felt in quite some time.

Hokage Tower

Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Sandaime Hokage, was doing the bane of every Kage's existence; paperwork. No matter how much he completed, the amount of work seemed to multiply at an infinite rate. Oh, how he longed for something or someone to interrupt him from the monotonous task. Luckily, that wish was granted as Naruto burst into the room which sent the ANBU on guard, relaxing once they knew who the intruder was. As the book was slammed on his desk, tipping over some paperwork in the process, Hiruzen looked at the title with a raised eyebrow before turning it towards his surrogate grandson.

"Samurai? Why the sudden interest, my boy?"

The answer was one the Sandaime was not expecting.

"The villagers." Naruto bluntly said. "I can't shop, the teachers hate me, and the only friends I have is you and the Ichiraku's."

The Sandaime brought a hand down his face, ending with himself absentmindedly stroking his goatee in thought. On one hand, he could give into Naruto's request, but on the other he wanted to force the boy to become a shinobi like his father had.

"Look Naruto, as much as it brings my old heart joy in seeing you explore other avenues, I still think you should give the academy another shot." Hiruzen pleaded, though it was apparently the wrong thing to say.

"NO! I will never go back to that hate filled place." Naruto said, tears of sorrow now streaming down his face. "I can't take the glares anymore, Ji-Ji, I just want to die!"

Those last four words made the Sandaime truly feel his age. No six year old should wish for death, they should be happy, ready to explore what's out there in the world.

Explore.

That one word made Hiruzen think about the path of the samurai. He understood them quite well, after all he did fight through three wars and live through the Warring Clan Era. Perhaps he would acquiesce Naruto's request and tell him of his parentage when his mind had settled. With a mental nod, and a slight smile to boot, Hiruzen knew of just the person who could help with this situation.

A retired samurai from Iron Country set up shop a couple months ago, one eagerly looking for an apprentice. As Hiruzen stood and walked around his desk to comfort Naruto, he couldn't help but think of the boy's heritage.

"You needn't beg for death, my grandson." The Sandaime warmly stated. "In time, the villagers will understand just how powerful a person they have lost."

Naruto sniffled and looked up as Hiruzen wiped the tears away. The blonde haired boy, although confused by the last statement, knew that his words had connected. As the Sandaime handed Naruto the book before being escorted outside, he couldn't keep the megawatt smile off his face.

Once out of the office and on the streets, Hiruzen couldn't help but notice what Naruto had been dealing with all these years. It made him realize that he broke his Sensei's cardinal rule.

"Family always comes before the village…"

He hadn't taken care of Naruto, a person he sees as family. In fact, the whole village was his family and yet he had become soft in his old age. Eyes now like hardened steel, he mentally vowed that this village would become strong once again.

The Sandaime and Naruto, after ten minutes of walking, arrived at a small shop which sold a variety of items. The outside was nothing much, but the inside was what gave the quaint store its name which was painted on the wide window beside the main entrance.

HARUMASA'S EMPORIUM.

It was through this window that everyone could see the man's wares.

Hung on the right wall was different sizes of katana, wakizashi, and tanto as well as wooden practice swords called bokken. On the left side of the wall were tea sets, repair kits for clothing and/or armor, and bows. On the wooden floor of the store was barrels filled with shuriken and arrows. And lastly, behind the front desk, hanging on the wall, were different types of Samurai armor, kimono, and geta sandals.

As Naruto and Hiruzen walked in, a bell jingled overhead followed by footsteps from the back of the store. Within seconds, an older gentleman walked out and greeted them with a smile. The elder, who towered over Hiruzen, had fair, slightly wrinkled skin and black eyes, much like the color of his hair which was set in a topknot. On his face, a small scar was present on the left cheek; a testament to his profession. Along with his white kimono, black pants and geta sandals hung two swords affixed to his right side by a black sash; a katana and wakizashi.

The old man bowed to his guests, his voice much like Hiruzen's; strong yet caring.

"Welcome Hokage-sama, and guest, to my emporium, my name is Fukui Harumasa."

As Hiruzen was about to speak, he caught the retired samurai and Naruto looking at each other. One was in awe at the man who stood before him, the other produced a frown as he, like Megumi, saw the story in those dull sapphire orbs. Soon, Fukui turned his gaze towards the Sandaime.

"You have brought me a young child who seemed to have lost his way, Hokage-dono." Harumasa said as he smiled and looked to Naruto once again. "Tell me child, what troubles you?"

Although nervous, his mouth seemingly filled with cotton balls, Naruto oddly felt that he could trust this man.

"My life and this village." Naruto bluntly said. "I hate both and the samurai seems like my only out."

Fukui nodded and decided to pry further. "I see, but tell me, what do you seek if you so desire to follow Bushido; is this for respect or for revenge?"

Naruto became confused, his facial features contorted in such a way which made the retired samurai chuckle a little. Fukui enjoyed the childlike innocence Naruto contained, an innocence which he lost many years ago. Seeing the blonde boy before him reminded him much of his own childhood which made Fukui smile.

"You are but an empty glass waiting to be filled. You have strayed off the path of life and are unsure where to go."

"Make sense old man!" Naruto yelled.

The samurai chuckled before he bent down to Naruto's level. "What is your name, child?"

"Naruto Uzumaki."

"Naruto, let us start again. Why do you wish to become a Samurai?"

The more he thought about it, the more Naruto didn't know. His shoulders slumped in sadness as he thought he wouldn't amount to anything in life. However, that warm feeling from before came back which brought a smile to his face.

"I don't know, but I always get a warm feeling every time I think about the path of the warrior?"

Harumasa hummed in thought and patted Naruto's shoulders as he stood, interested in why this was. As he looked at Hiruzen, he noticed the saddened expression on his face every time he looked at Naruto. With a sigh, he gave a smile towards Naruto to reassure him.

"Wait here Naruto, feel free to browse the store while I talk to the Hokage, OK?"

Naruto nodded and quickly ran to the wall of various swords. By time the two elders went to the back room, his curious six year old mind gravitated towards the samurai armor. The warmth returned again, and Naruto reached for the armor with a smile.

Meanwhile in the back room, Hiruzen and Fukui both chatted silently so that Naruto couldn't hear what they were saying.

"You have brought me a diamond in the rough Hokage-dono, I sense he is still unsure of whether this path is right for him or not, but I digress." Although calm at first, his expression quickly became stern. "Tell me, why haven't you informed Naruto of his heritage and what he contains?"

The Hokage was now on alert and ready to end the person in front of him. However, Harumasa never flinched, he was calm as a tranquil lake.

"How do you know of such classified information!?"

"Calm yourself Hokage-sama, I am not your enemy. I merely took the facts and pieced them together."

Hiruzen glared at Fukui, "Have you been stalking Naruto? If you have, I won't hesitate to kill you here and now."

The Samurai smiled at how protective the Sandaime was. "Not at all Hokage-sama, I may have been here two months, but the villagers seem to like their sake a little too much, ninja included."

The Hokage clenched his fists in anger then relaxed after taking a deep breath.

"Mifune, my master, told me that I would meet a boy who lost his way before coming here Hokage-dono, he told me that the fate of the Elemental Nations and Iron Country would rest in his hands alone." Fukui said as he leaned against the back wall.

"Almost like Jiraiya's prophecy from the Toads." Hiruzen thought then looked the samurai in the eyes. "If I agree to this, will you teach Naruto your style?"

Harumasa shook his head then shrugged. "That is not my choice to make, it is Naruto's. As to your other question, my style is based on Iaido; the art of sword drawing."

Hiruzen tensed as Fukui suddenly got in a stance. A flash of silver could be seen, but the Kage did not flinch. He calmly caught the tip of the blade with his right index and pointer fingers; earth chakra added so that he wouldn't get cut. Fukui couldn't help but let out a hearty laugh, wiping tears from his eyes once the laughter ceased.

"Just what I expected from the God of Shinobi! A man to survive not only the Warring Clan era, but three wars as well." Hiruzen let go of the blade, it being sheathed not long after. "Glad to see you haven't lost your touch after sitting at that desk for so long."

The Hokage couldn't keep the smirk off his face. "What good a Kage would I be if my skills stagnated, but onto other matters. What style was that, never in all my years have I saw such a thing?"

The samurai returned the smile. "Musō Jikiden Eishin-ryū, the style in which Naruto will learn among other things if he accepts the path of the warrior."

Although Hiruzen wanted to learn more about said sword style, he knew the importance of keeping secrets. He didn't press any further.

"Shall we see how my surrogate grandson is doing?"

Fukui nodded and both walked out of the office and to the front of the store to see Naruto garbed in samurai armor and a katana in his right hand. The two elderly gentleman watched as Naruto swung the sword in different directions, an act which made both smile. After a minute, Fukui cleared his throat and internally chuckled.

"Well Naruto, it seems like you have chosen your path."

"AHHH!"

Naruto jumped in the air as he didn't expect them to return yet; he quickly sheathed the katana and placed it back on the shelf while taking off the armor. Hiruzen's smile grew as he saw the happy look on Naruto's face.

"It seems that Naruto found his path again…Minato, Kushina, you would be proud."

"Sorry samurai-san, I was just curious is all." Naruto blushed in embarrassment.

The Samurai waved his hands in the air. "Not to worry Naruto, I see you are eager to follow Bushido then?"

It was hesitant but Naruto nodded in acceptance. "Hai but some of it was confusing."

"All in due time, child. I will teach you the path of the warrior among other things. First thing's first, that orange monstrosity has to go and you will be wearing what I am."

"But I like orange!" The outburst earned a bop on the head which made Naruto glare at the Samurai. "OW! Why'd you hit me?!"

A stoic look was on Fukui's face as he looked at Naruto "One, you lack discipline, and two, you were distracted by thinking about me burning that hideous outfit."

Naruto stared at the man in awe as the samurai somehow read his mind. This earned another bop on the head which made Hiruzen chuckle.

"You were distracted on how I read your mind, this is something we will work on. Expect nothing, be prepared for anything. Your training will start tomorrow at five in the morning, I expect you to be here on time."

"Hai." Naruto said then turned to the Hokage. "Ji-Ji can we get ramen?"

"No!" Fukui interjected sternly "You need to eat more vegetables and get a balanced meal; ramen on special occasions only."

Naruto pouted, "But the villagers only sell me rotten or overpriced food."

The Sandaime's eyes suddenly gleamed with anger, "Naruto, we are going shopping, I think it's time they know who the boss is around here. Haramusu-dono, thank you for helping Naruto and I."

"My pleasure Hokage-dono."

Once the two left Fukui smiled, "I must inform Mifune-dono that I have found my student, in time maybe he can teach my student as well."

Iron Country – Evening, Mifune's Office

The sun had recently set in Iron Country.

Mifune was doing his last tasks for the day when a messenger came in, bowed low, and handed his leader the message. After the elder samurai took it, the messenger stood up and left without saying a word. With a curious look, the leader of Iron Country turned over the envelope and smiled at seeing Fukui's name on the front.

"Hmm, now what do you have here my student. Have you found the one that which the prophecy foretold?"

Mifune flipped the envelope back, opened it, then pulled out the letter and began to read.

Dear Mifune-sama or Master,

I have found the one which the prophecy has foretold but I fear for the boy's sanity; Konoha has hurt him deeply but fear not, the darkness that lies within will be tamed. He is a boy with a fox that which tramples in the leaves, a son of a Hokage and a mother from the Whirlpool, from this boy we shall believe.

Sincerely,

Fukui Harumasa

Mifune closed the letter and placed it back inside with a smile as the riddle at the end was easy to solve. The samurai leader was not surprised that the boy's sanity teetered on the brink, after all, a jinchuriki that is known by the populace is bound to breed hate; humans tend to fear what they don't understand. Although this was a blessing, Mifune knew that the boy needed to be trained, and it would be a while until he was ready to step foot in this land.

The old leader rubbed his temples with a groan. "But will my student and I's training be enough to stop the civil unrest which grows from the snow covered mountains of my home?"

A smile soon graced Mifune's lips as he thought of a saying.

Good things come to those who wait.

Following Morning, Harumasa's Emporium

The bell jingled in the store followed by the sound of a door closing; Naruto arrived just as told. What confused him was that nobody seemed to be in the store.

"Samurai-san, are you here?" He shouted with Fukui appearing from the back of the store not long after.

"Ah, Naruto I see you have arrived on time; you are quite the responsible person." Fukui went into the back then returned shortly after, and handed Naruto his outfit. "Put that on, you will burn that orange suit you wear afterward."

Naruto hesitated and got slapped on the back of the head, "Remember what I said yesterday child, expect nothing, prepare for anything."

"How do I prepare if I see nothing is happening?"

"A wise question young student, but that is what the lesson will be for today; situational awareness. Now go on, change up then meet me in the back."

"Hai samurai-san."

"Master, my young student, for now on I will be called as such." The samurai said sternly.

Naruto nodded, "Hai Master Harumasa."

It took Naruto five minutes to change as he never used a kimono before but once he got it on he felt comfortable, it was really soft and lightweight. His outfit was like that of his master; a simple white kimono, black pants, and geta sandals. As he arrived to the back of the store with his old clothes, Naruto saw Fukui standing by a wood burning stove which was for heating in the winter. The latter motioned to the stove, the stern look still on his face.

"Put your old clothes in here Naruto and set them alight; the burning of your old clothing signifies that that part of you is now gone. What you wear now is the beginning to your new path, that of the warrior."

Naruto took one last look at his clothes before doing as told. He stared at the match he was handed and, with a sigh, he struck the match on the side of the stove and threw it onto his clothing. As Naruto watched his old clothes burn, he could only think on what the samurai said to him yesterday.

"I am but an empty glass, one that is waiting to be filled."

After a few minutes, Fukui motioned for Naruto to follow him to the front of the store. Once there, he took a three foot bokken off the wall; perfect for Naruto's three foot six frame. Next, the Harumasa took a black silk belt he got from behind the counter then proceeded to put both on his student. The bokken slid between the belt and the kimono in a secure fashion on the right side.

The act made Naruto look into the elderly man's eyes with a raised eyebrow, one which Fukui caught.

"You will not pick up a sword for a few years yet, that bokken is so you can get used to the weight. For now, you will use that until you get your real swords." Fukui patted Naruto on the shoulders, and motioned him towards the door. "Now come, we are going to wander the village; pay close attention to everything around you."

"Hai Master."

Council Chambers

The clan heads, Shibi Aburame, Inoichi Yamanaka, Shikaku Nara, Hiashi Hyuga, Tsume Inuzuka, Fugaku Uchiha, and Choza Akimichi, the advisors Koharu and Homura as well as Danzo, were all waiting for the Hokage to arrive. None knew what this meeting was about and wondered why it was so early in the morning. They didn't have to wait long as the council doors opened which showed Hiruzen in his Hokage attire, and a stern expression on his face.

The God of Shinobi was back.

"Advisors, Danzo, Clan heads, I have called this meeting to inform you that we have failed one of our greatest legacies and we have nothing to blame but this village and myself."

Hiruzen took a deep breath to compose himself and was impressed that everyone was silent still.

"Naruto Uzumaki started the academy a week ago but decided on another path as he came to me with a book yesterday, a book about the Samurai. The eyes I looked into yesterday made me see what Naruto truly was. A child, an innocent child who had a burden thrust upon himself without his say, on the brink of collapse; on the brink to do away with this village."

Danzo interjected which showed his distaste, "Samurai…bah! This is a ninja village and samurai have no place here. I say you hand Naruto over to me so that I can train him."

Hiruzen slammed his fists on the table, "Danzo, how many times do I have to repeat myself…NO! And don't think for a second that I don't know about your still existing Root program. Try anything to Naruto and his master, whom is a retired Samurai from Iron Country I might add, and your punishment will not be lenient."

The clan heads and advisors smirked at Danzo's shocked face.

"Hokage-sama, if I might interject, who is Naruto's master now?" Shibi questioned.

"Fukui Harumasa, he was taught by Mifune so I assure you Naruto is in good hands."

Hiashi's eyes widened, "Are you sure that name is correct Hokage-sama?"

"I assure you it is Hiashi-san, why do you ask?"

"When the Hyuga was being formed, samurai still roamed the land and the Harumasa clan had an alliance with us after we had countless battles with them. Years passed and the samurai seemed to disappear along with our alliance. I must meet this man."

The council chamber went silent as that was a response nobody expected. After a good five minutes of silence, Homura cleared his throat.

"As interesting as this is, I sense you had other business Hokage-sama."

The Hokage nodded and said, "Yes, if you recall earlier how I said we failed one of our greatest legacies…that has to do with Naruto Uzumaki."

Hiruzen pulled out a manila folder from his robes and slammed it on the large desk, he opened it and pulled out a birth certificate, blood test, and marriage certificate; these three documents were passed around.

"Those are proof to the fact that Naruto is the son of our Yondaime Hokage and Kushina Uzumaki. I will inform Naruto of everything as he has suffered at the hands of this village for far too long, after that the whole village will know of the sins they have committed."

Nobody denied the truth that was staring them in the face yet Danzo had his concerns.

"And what of Iwa and Kumo?"

"That, my old friend…" Hiruzen said with a smirk, "…is where your Root will be handy. I want every list of shinobi under your control and their skill set. In fact, I will have Jiraiya and Tsunade return so that any seals you placed can be removed, and that they are checked to see if they are fit for duty. Deny my request and it will be your head Danzo!"

The War Hawk sighed knowing he couldn't do anything, but the Hokage had one more stipulation.

"Oh and Danzo, all your files that we collect from your base will be gone over…any sign of treasonous activity and you will be executed publicly. As of now, Root is now under my command."

The Hokage smiled at the pissed expression on his old rival's face, even more so when the clan heads and advisers started to snicker.

Danzo clenched his fists and let out a strained, "Hai Hokage-sama."

"That is all I wanted to say, we are dismissed. Hiashi, Harumasa-dono should be training Naruto but I will inform him that you want to meet."

Hiashi bowed in thanks then both left the chamber with the rest of the crowd.

With Naruto

"Master, this is boring, I do as you say but nothing seems out of the ordinary." Naruto huffed and crossed his arms which earned a whack on the head.

Fukui sighed and said, "Patience young student, this is something that will take time to hone in. For instance, there are two ANBU who have been following us. One is hiding behind the dumpster behind me and the other is on the roof overlooking me."

"How did he see us, we used a camouflage jutsu?!"

Naruto was absolutely confused. "I don't sense anyone?"

Fukui chuckled then took a calming breath, "Close your eyes Naruto and extend your senses, ignore everything else around you as you do so."

Naruto did as told and attempted to drown out the sounds around him, it took ten minutes but Naruto finally managed to do so. After another five minutes of focusing, he snapped open his eyes with a gasp.

"I saw a hazy mist around the ANBU, what was that?"

The Samurai was impressed, "He accessed his Ki already, and at such a young age. Perhaps there is more to this boy then I once thought."

"That is the life force of every being on this planet, or what is known as Ki or chi; for you to have accessed it at your age is truly astonishing."

Naruto clutched his head "Argh, so confused!"

"You're only six, my student, so you have every right, but that is the next part of your homework. After today's lesson you are to go to the library and read up on the Elemental Nations; the Kage, the villages, terrain, everything."

"Expect nothing, be prepared for anything?" Naruto questioned.

Naruto's master smiled and patted his student on the head. "Very good Naruto, now let us continue our lesson, but outside the village walls. You are welcome to come ANBU-sans, I assure you I won't bite."

"The Hokage needs to be informed of this."

"They left master; I heard the wind that was picked up."

Fukui blinked in slight shock, "Increased senses thanks to the Kyuubi, just another thing I will be working on. You might be a better samurai then I once you graduate, my student."

Nothing else was said between the two as they walked to a training ground which had a waterfall and many trees around. The sound of birds chirping and animals scampering about was plentiful. Before Naruto could question what they were going to do, he was handed a blindfold.

"I will be honing all of your senses. First I will take away your sight, then your smell, your hearing, and lastly touch." The Samurai informed.

"Are you sure this is necessary master?" Naruto's head rocked backward as he was hit with a stone that Fukui found on the ground. "What was that for you old coot!"

"Never question your master. A samurai's training encompasses all paths of Bushido. You took up this path and to leave it would mean I would have to kill you after you slit your own stomach."

Naruto looked into the serious gaze of his master and gulped, "Y-you're joking…right?"

Fukui's eyes narrowed, his voice grew cold. "No, a Samurai never lies; if a Samurai says that they will do something, they will as Bushido demands it." It was then his tone warmed. "But you are only six, so in time, you will understand. Enough chatter, put on the blindfold."

Naruto didn't hesitate but once it was on, he was immediately hit with multiple stones which made him scream in pain.

"A blind samurai can still fight, listen for the sounds of the incoming projectile and dodge." Fukui instructed.

Naruto attempted to dodge but got hit again. Having enough of getting pelted, Naruto decided to calm his emotions and drown out everything around him. Seeing Naruto's shoulders relax made Fukui internally smile.

"That's it my student, relax and let your other senses guide you."

Fukui threw a baseball sized stone toward Naruto's face at a tremendous speed as he knew that Naruto would be able to catch it. For Naruto, it was quiet and his mind was blank, that is until a whooshing sound entered his ears. Letting instincts guide him, Naruto outstretched his right hand and caught the stone effortlessly.

"YATA I DID IT!"

Naruto's happy dance didn't last long as another stone, this one the size of a pebble, hit Naruto squarely in the forehead which brought him back to reality.

"You were distracted by your joy in accomplishing your task. We will continue to do this until lunch time; between breaks you will be doing push-ups, sit-ups, crunches and squats. Get in position."

Naruto nodded though he rubbed his head where the stone hit. "Hai Master."

Hokage Office

"Inu, Hawk, I see you have returned from your protection assignment though you are hours early, care to tell why?" The Hokage said, his eyes narrowed at the two ANBU in front of him.

"Sorry Hokage-sama, but Harumasa-san and Naruto managed to detect us." Hawk said with Inu adding to his statement.

"Harumasa said that Naruto accessed something called Ki or chi, is that even possible sir?"

Hiruzen lit his clay pipe and puffed a few times which made the smell of tobacco permeate the air.

"I am unsure about chi but I find it hard to believe that a six year old could detect you, the samurai yes, but Naruto? Are you sure you aren't slipping on your duties Inu, Hawk?"

"No Hokage-sama!" Both quickly stated which prompted the Hokage to stand from his chair and head towards the door.

"Good, I will have to look into Naruto's training myself then; guard the office while I'm gone."

"Hai Hokage-sama!"

The ANBU bowed as Hiruzen left in a black puff of smoke.

With Naruto

Naruto was now doing his second set of twenty crunches, sit-ups, and push-ups. As he was doing the push-ups, Harumasa would stand on Naruto's back for added weight. This of course made Naruto lash out at his master which earned a one way trip to the ground via a stomp from Harumasa. After a few beat downs, Naruto just went along with his exercises until he was finished. Once done, Naruto stood from his crunches and brushed the dirt of his kimono as well as the sweat from his brow, the blindfold was still on.

Suddenly, Harumasa sensed something and decided to test his student.

"Tell me Naruto, can you sense anything wrong about the training ground we are in?"

Naruto pushed his senses out in the hopes of finding something, but no such luck. "Not really master, I only heard some birds chirping in a couple trees to my right."

Seeing the defeated look on Naruto's face, Fukui reassured him. "A good attempt, but like I said before. It will take time to master all that the samurai have to offer." After a pause, the elder samurai turned to a nearby tree. "You can come out Hokage-sama, I sense you wish to talk to my student?"

Naruto turned to the tree and took off his blindfold to see the Sandaime walk towards them.

"Indeed I do, but there are too many eyes and ears about the woods."

Fukui nodded and turned towards his student. "Then our lesson is done for the day. Naruto, come to my store after you're done to pick up more of your new outfit and burn the old one's at your home. Also, remember your homework."

Naruto bowed, "Hai, thank you Master."

"Before we part. Harumasa-dono, Hiashi Hyuga would like to talk to you about an ancient treaty they had with your clan."

The samurai's eyes lit up as he remembered the contract quite well."Ah yes, I haven't seen a Hyuga in quite some time. Sadly, I'm the last remaining member of my clan; maybe my student could pass on my legacy once I am gone."

"Really!" A slap is heard in the training ground, "Will you stop that old man I got enough bruises today!"

"Emotions can distract you from the fight and possible dangers around you. Mediation will be your next lesson, same time tomorrow. By your leave Hokage-sama." Fukui bowed.

Hiruzen returned the bow then lead Naruto to the Hokage Tower while Harumasa went to the Hyuga compound to see what Hiashi wanted.

Hokage Tower

As Naruto and Hiruzen arrived, the Hokage dismissed Inu, Hawk, and the hidden ANBU then set up security seals so that nobody else would listen in. Naruto took a seat on the couch while Hiruzen sat in his chair.

"So Ji-Ji, what did you need to talk about?"

As Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, he began in a sad tone. "When I saw those cold eyes of yours yesterday, and heard what the villagers were saying about you, I woke up. No longer would I be considered soft and I have taken steps to ensure Konoha harms you no longer."

Naruto scratched his head in slight confusion, "Not that I'm happy about that, but why tell me this?"

"You always wanted to know about your parents and why the village hated you, well that day is today. The village will find out about your heritage after lunch."

Naruto sat silently as he watched Hiruzen get up and take off the picture of the Yondaime which was on the wall with the other past Hokage; underneath this was a safe. After it was unlocked, Hiruzen grabbed two scrolls and handed them to Naruto once everything was back in place. One of the scrolls had a spiral on it while the other had the Kanji for Namikaze on it. When Naruto read the Kanji, he gasped in shock.

"N-no, that can't be, if the Yondaime was my father then that means the Kyuubi is…"

Hiruzen nodded sadly as he sat beside Naruto. "Yes, the Kyuubi is sealed within you and is the reason why the villagers hate you. They see you as the demon, not the scroll that holds it back."

"What is this spiral symbol?" Naruto questioned as he looked at the scroll intently.

"That is the Uzumaki clan symbol which was sadly destroyed in the second war. Your mother, Kushina Uzumaki, came from Uzu before that. Please understand that your parents loved you very much and regretted using you as the container for the Kyuubi…I'm sorry for keeping this from you."

Naruto wiped the tears from his eyes and hugged his grandfatherly figure, "Thank you Ji-Ji and I forgive you but how will the village take it?"

Hiruzen shrugged, "We will see later today, but first how about getting a new home."

"I have to pick up my clothing from my master Ji-Ji, and then we will go to my parents' home."

"I have a better idea as Harumasa-san is likely still talking to Hiashi, how about some ramen?"

"YES!" Doing this made Naruto clasp his hands over his mouth. "I guess master is right about my emotions."

Hiruzen ruffled Naruto's hair, "I look forward to seeing you in full samurai gear one of these days Naruto. Even though you aren't a ninja, I believe your parents would still be proud."

"Maybe, but ramen Ji-Ji…let's go!"

Hiruzen chuckled as Naruto grasped his hand and drug him out of the office.

"Oh Minato, Kushina, if only you could see your son now."

Hyuga District

Fukui Harumasa walked up to the gate guards at the Hyuga District, introduced himself with a bow, and was quickly escorted into Hiashi's personal office. Once the door was closed, Hiashi and Harumasa bowed to each other.

"Tea Harumasa-sama?" Hiashi asked as he motioned to the tea set on one of the tables beside his desk.

"That would be lovely, thank you Hiashi-sama."

Once the Clan Head poured the Samurai's tea and handed him the cup and saucer, the two sat down and started their chat.

Hiashi cleared his throat and began in a regal tone, "Harumasa-sama, it is an honor to meet you and it is my hope that we can perhaps rebuild the alliance we once had with your ancestors."

"Fukui is fine Hiashi-sama, no need for honorifics between two allies." The Samurai sipped his tea and smiled as he swallowed the hot liquid, "Ah, a hint of jasmine. The tea is lovely, thank you."

Hiashi let out a small smile, "Your welcome but perhaps we can get to the matter at hand."

"Oh, heh, it seems this old body of mine tends to wander on about the past." Harumasa cleared his throat, "Enough delay, you wish to restart our alliance, one that we had many years ago correct."

Hiashi nodded, both sipping their tea at the same time,"As much as I would love to Hiashi-sama, I simply cannot in good fortune continue said alliance as I am the last of my clan."

The Hyuga clan head sighed then his eyes widened at what he learned in the meeting today, "Perhaps your student can take up your name and continue your lineage Fukui."

Said man held up a hand to signify 'hold it,' "Although your ambitions are in good faith, that is not for me to decide Hiashi-sama, it is Naruto's. Whether he keeps his lineage intact is up to him, but as time goes on and he wanders the path of the warrior, as he delves deeper into that which is the meaning of life, only then will my student be able to make the right choice."

Hiashi paused at the cryptic answer but eventually shrugged and set the tea cup and saucer on the nearby desk. "A shame, but good things come to those who wait. Perhaps we can chat about old times?"

Fukui smiled, "It would be my pleasure."

Edited: 5/7/15

Big thanks to BushidoTheEnlightenedPath for giving me the correct version of Bushido.