Disclamer: "All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their original creators. The original characters and plot are the property of the creator. The fan-fiction author is in no way associated/affiliated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended."

Hello! Before I say anything else let me tell you, this is not a fanfic this is drabbles on a current fanfic. It's confusing I know, but I'm currently working on a series of Naruto fanfics. Almost nothing is up a this point so I thought it'd be a good idea to post up the in-dept explaintions here for those who want read them.

It's my first attempt at a real epic Naruto fanfiction. My inspiration for this came from that Naruto ending that had the samurai theme to it.

You know, when Naruto and Sasuke are walking in the forest and they start facing each other in a tense duel that ends up with the frog jumping in the middle. I really love that ending (and the song!) and so with several sleepless nights and lots of hours of planning I came up with the layout for it...

If you have any questions feel free to review, I'll reply as soon as I can. Thank you!

- Zerolr -

Samurai Naruto Series

Setting

I've decided to make this an AU because I feel flexible enough to stretch my wings a bit. And also this way, I don't feel confined by stay within canon storylines and such. Doesn't mean I didn't do my fair amount of research either! I drew up a map in which I post up a link when I get a chance.

The setting takes place in the land of Zerconia known to be called "Land of the Fireflies" because during the summer nights the country is lit up with these unique fireflies that color the darkness in haunting colors. The country's style and customs mirrors almost exactly Edo-period Japan. However unlike that period, the use of katanas and other weapons aren't banned.

The Three Provinces of Zerconia

To maintain a balance of power, the emperor Sarutobi established three provinces and dividing them between the three most powerful warriors of their time: Tsunade, Jiraya, and Orochimaru.

Central Province
~ Here Lies the Place Crowned by Six Stars ~

Shogun ruling: Tsunade

This province is one of the oldest existing areas under the Sarutobi rule. In the distant past, Zerconia was a land without government--fragments of land were owned by numerous warrior clans and/or wealthy individuals. Sarutobi owned a large portion of what is known to be the C. Province.

A powerful Akamichi warrior also known as the "Red Butterfly" united Zerconia as one. Over the years Akamichi dynasty was eventually passed over to Sarutobi--for the two had been allies for longest.

Besides being allies with Akamichi, after the country's unification, Sarutobi family made alliances with five other significant clans; Uchiha, Hyuuga, Nara, Yamanaka, and the Namikaze clans. Together they were known as the "Six Stars of Zerconia". It's here in this province that all of their main houses are located.

Six Noble Families

Namikaze - This clan is known to have heavy influence with the Royal family. Many powerful warriors are born within this clan. They are known to be free-spirited and are represented by the swirl. Constant change is good. Out of the six clans, they are the most powerful in strength and influence.

After the Demon's Rebellion, a war between the Tailed-Beasts and Humans, the Namikaze Clan was wiped out completely by the nine-tailed Kyuubi. Their estate is untouched haunted by the spirits of the deceased

Uchiha - It was believed that in ancient times, a Hyuuga battling for position as head of the clan offered human sacrifices to Lord Jashin for power in battle. And thus the Sharingan was born. Uchiha clan is represented by the uchiwa fan. Fight fire with fire. They are known for their sheer strength and intelligence in battle. The Uchiha hold to be the "Left Hand" of the Emperor. The Devil's hand.

Hyuuga - Hyuuga legend claims that the Byakugan was a gift from the Moon Goddess to their ancestor who was said to possess a "pure heart". Those with such a heart are allowed to see through towards the "Truth". Indeed the gift of the Byakugan is a blood trait that's heavily protected. Intermarriage between clan members to anyone outside is strictly forbidden.

The clan boasts enormous power in wealth and status. They also experts in hand-to-hand combat. They are represented by the swirled cloud. Gaze towards the Sun The Hyuuga hold to be the "Right Hand" of the Emperor. God's Hand.

Akamichi - This clan unlike Hyuuga or the Uchiha, have clan members that are filled with variety and aren't as uniformed. In general they produce strong, bulky, powerful warriors that boast in absolute physical power. Akamichi medics create medicine and farm herbs that boost abilities and the recipes are secrets hidden within the clan. In the past, they were once hailed as a royal family but are now a noble family overshadowed by other clans. Their symbol is the kanji "Shoku". Food is the key to the Heart.

They are also symbolized by the "Cho" (butterfly). Cho is a popular word often blended with names in honor of their ancestor Chojin aka "Red Butterfly"

Nara - One of the few clans that aren't known for physical strength, but instead for their intelligence and witty nature. The Nara clan are known for their unique ability to manipulate the shadows. Being the second richest clan, have very close ties with the royal family often producing governors and other civil worker positions within the government. They are represented by the circled cross. No boundary is Impossible to Cross.

Like the Akamichi, they are also symbolized by the "Shika" (deer). Their ancestors honor this animal for their speed, agility and the ability to outwit their predators. The Deer are silent yet move like the shadows.

Yamanaka - They are a very unique clan apart from the rest. This clan is possesses a number of clairvoyant members, telepathic users, psychics, fortune tellers and such. Unlike anyone outside of the clan--their powers are real. Yamanaka women are proud, beautiful, poised, delicate, refined and are the pride and joy of the clan. To marry a Yamanaka woman is a luxury.

They are less bloodied, always choosing the winning side of any war. They are represented by the Azalea flower. Love Yourself for Me. The Yamanaka florists are masters in the art of Ikebana (Japanese floral arrangement). Most are knowledgeable on herbs, spices recipes and remedies.

Like the Nara and the Akamichi, they are also symbolized by the "Ino" (boar). To them, the boar symbolizes wealth and fertility. To male Yamanaka they strongly symbolize absolute courage, strength, and determination in battle. I the Boar knows what's going to happen, so why doubt?

Places in the Central Province

Tsunade's Estate – It's more like a castle towering countless floors to the heavens. Located near the valley of a small mountain range, it is an ideal location for training.

Akamichi Estate – Located west of Tsunade's home. The place is bordered by two large rivers. Behind it rests an extensive bamboo forest.

Nara Estate – across the river towards the south is the Nara Estate. It's at an hour's walk from the palace capital.

Yamanaka Estate – Located east from Nara Estate. This house is located near Jusango, were they often sell their goods.

Jusango – a trading merchant town with inns and all kinds of shops. Yamanaka florist shops are open here.

Main Hyuuga Estate – Houses the main family. It's a small metropolis; shops ad things exclusive to this family are found here. The palace in its center is exquisite and known to be an ancient marvel.

Hyuuga Branch House – Located east, away from towns and people. Members of the Branch live here. Often members travel from here to the Main estate to work at their positions there. The place is old and ill-maintained.

Junishu – located south of the Main Hyuuga estate. It's a regular town with little commerce, with a little bit of farmers and a large residential area. Families of common warriors live here.

Uchiha Estate – located south east of Junishu. The estate is extensive housing the head family in the inner walls and the rest of the clan surrounding it. Many members comfortable live their entire lives without leaving this place.

Juichira – located southeast of the Uchiha estate, close to the Green Forest. It's a small village filled with hunters and smith shops. Guides that know the forests are found here.

Jusha – located directly south, closest to the Uchiha estate. It sits on the border to the South Province. Sasuke's favorite osen (hot spring) to visit is here. It's a transverse town boasting plenty of small restaurants are found here.

Namikaze Estate – located at the far west near the border to the West Province. After the war, the place was destroyed—haunted by apparitions.

Next: The West Province