1 The Start of a Legend

(Mandalore - 40 BBY)


"You don't have to live here alone, Naruto. Our estate has plenty of room, and you used to always enjoy staying there with my sister and me." A girl spoke. She was in her late teens to early twenties. Like most people of their planet, she had light skin while having blue eyes and blonde hair that went to her the nape of her neck. This was Satine Kryze, the heiress to House Kryze and Duchess of Mandalore.


The aforementioned Naruto just looked up at the girl. His skin took a more tanner complexion, like that of his uncle. He had red hair like his mother streaked with the blonde of his father's hair, while his eyes were a striking purple, similar to his mother's. "You know I can't do that, Satine. I have already told you that my place is elsewhere. It is for both your safety and the safety of your family. We both know that you would never want Bo-Katan to get hurt." His even and dull voice made her pause. It still surprised her that a child just a year older than her sister could speak like that. She looked back at him before turning to see if the other person in the house was close enough to hear them.


"Naruto, no one else knows who your uncle is except me and those fortunate enough to know your mother. You don't need to isolate yourself from others because you think they will get hurt. My family is making Mandalore a peaceful planet with all the warriors leaving for Concordia. Death Watch can't reach you here." She spoke with such passion that most would believe her without a second thought. Naruto was not most; he knew the price his beloved Mandalore would pay for this thinking.


Naruto had the blood of warriors running through his veins, the type of pacifism that his friend spoke of went against all he was. "Our ideologies differ, you know this. My uncle raised me not to sit back when I could take action. What will happen when other worlds wish to attack us because of what our ancestors did? How will we fight back?"


Taken back by the passion in the voice of the usual apathetic boy, Satine was at a loss for words. She gathered herself before speaking in a kinder tone, specially reserved for him and her sister. "Naruto, you are only eight. You shouldn't be thinking of things such as this. And what makes you believe Mandalore will be attacked? The Galaxy is mostly at peace now, and we are safe." She would never understand how a boy so young could speak like he was.


Before Naruto could speak, he felt it. It was like a whisper telling him what to say, and he knew why. He looked over in her direction before speaking. "Satine, just listen to what I have to say. How you take it is your choice. Someone very important to me once said, 'It's better to be a Mandalorian on Alderaan than an Alderaanian on Mandalore when war breaks out'. When you learn what this means, you will know what to do."


While it may have looked to Satine that he was staring into her eyes when he said that, Naruto was looking over her shoulder. For behind her was something only he could see. It was a specter of a tall man in old Mandalorian armor. The specter nodded in agreement to the words that Naruto had just spoken. Before Satine could speak, both herself and Naruto heard the footsteps of someone nearing them. Turning from the window in front of them, the two saw a girl around Naruto's age approach them. She shared the light skin of her sister but had red hair and striking green eyes in contrast to Satine. This was Bo-Katan, Satine's younger sister and Naruto's only friend.


"What were you two talking about?" Bo-Katan asked, "Whenever I leave you two alone, you always get so serious." She had a curious look on her face while looking at her friend and older sister. "Well, I'm ready to go now, Satine." Satine nodded before the three moved towards the front door of the estate. While they moved, Naruto and Satine didn't realize that Bo-Katan heard his words and wondered what they could mean.


"Well, we will be leaving now, Naruto. I hope to see you again soon." Satine spoke as she grabbed her sister's hand and her house guards neared her. While she truly meant to see him again, just by looking in Naruto's eyes, she knew that the next time they met would be the last time they did for a while.


Before Naruto could say his goodbyes, he was stopped by Bo-Katan, who barreled into him for a hug. "Goodbye, Naru, see you soon," she whispered into his ear. He returned the hug with a small smile and replied, "Goodbye, Bo." He didn't have it in him to tell his best friend that she wouldn't be seeing him for a long time.


After that, the Kryze heiresses boarded a speeder with their guards and left. After waiting for a few minutes, he turned to his right to look at the specter that was always with him. "Do you think I should have told them, Tarre?" Naruto asked with uncertainty in his voice.


Tarre stared down at the young Mandalorian before speaking. "I cannot answer that, Naruto. All I can say is that the Force works in mysterious ways, and it decided that they best not know now. But I think the Duchess will know because no matter what, your visitors must go through her first." He spoke with wisdom while Naruto contemplated his words.


Naruto nodded as he came to his conclusion. Looking up into the sky of the dome-covered city of Sundari, Naruto looked at a particular area as if looking at something in the stars and made a sound of resignation. "Well, let us prepare for our guests, Tarre. From what I saw, they will be here in a few days." With that said, Naruto reentered his estate with Tarre following. They had some important guests that would be visiting very soon.


(Coruscant - Jedi Temple - 40 BBY - Days Earlier)


Inside a darkened room sat three individuals meditating. The first was a tall, bald, dark-skinned human male who wore a pair of beige and tan tunics with a brown robe. The second was a tall Kel Dor male who wore his species trademark protective mask and goggles. His clothing was similar to the human with tan and brown tunics and a black robe. The final figure was very small in stature. He was of an unknown species with green skin with wispy grey hair. His most defining features were his long, pointed ears, tridactyl hands, and anisodactyl feet. The clothing he wore was identical to the humans. These three were Jedi Masters Mace Windu, Plo Koon, and Jedi Grand Master Yoda.


"Master Windu, Master Plo. The force calls, help me, will you? See something, we must." Master Yoda spoke with the broken form of speech he and others of his kind were known for. The two Jedi didn't seem perturbed by his manner of speech and sat on the mats beside his raised chair. As one, the three connected to the force before being assaulted with visions.


War, destruction, despair. Those words described what they were seeing. An army of droids marching upon a planet covered in water, grasslands, and swamps. The world's people were put into internment camps and suffered dearly for it.


Millions of men wearing white armor spread throughout the stars. Worlds were subjugated in the name of peace, unity, conquest—fellow Jedi fighting in wars and taking the lives of the guilty… and the innocent. Numerous Jedi were being killed in all the fighting.


Fear and Pain so excruciating it was almost unbearable for the Masters. Thousands of battleships clashed against one another. Battles filled the stars with ships of all sizes fighting, turbolasers screamed with fury, attacking other ships or firing upon planets. Entire planets were glassed and rendered uninhabitable. Coruscant, a battle raged above her surface. Starships crashed into the surface of the Republic capital after being destroyed in the stars above. Hundreds of thousands of other worlds shared this fate.


Betrayal, anger… the dark side. All three Jedi Masters felt it. A figure enveloped in shadows appeared and spoke an unhearable phrase. Jedi were quickly fired upon by the very men they were leading. Jedi Masters, knights, padawans died horrible deaths; some quick, while others suffered. The Force cried out in pain for atrocities committed. The same armored soldiers marched in behind a man dressed in black towards an immense structure, one that they all knew—the Jedi Temple on Coruscant.


Devastation was all they saw. One by one, they saw Jedi and Force-sensitives become one with the Force across the galaxy. Blue blaster bolts snuffing out their lives. The man in black and his soldiers attacked the Jedi Temple with unrelenting force. Jedi Master Cin Drallig led a counterattack with Jedi Temple Guards, Knights, and padawans. Their resistance was not enough as more and more armored soldiers entered the temple. The worst was that it was a fellow Jedi leading this assault, as seen by his blue lightsaber. 


Soon only Master Drallig and two padawans were left. The male padawan was quickly slewed with a slash across his chest while the female padawan was strangled through the force by the Dark Jedi. Master Cin Drallig proved his title as Temple Battlemaster as he fought against his opponent. However, it was for naught as he was cleaved through his shoulder. The armored forces began firing upon the records that the Jedi had been building for hundreds of thousands of years, destroying all of it.


Fear. It was the only emotion on the faces of the younglings who appeared next. They came out from behind the chairs of the High Council Chambers to face the dark figure. "Master ▅▃▄▃▅▂▄ there are too many of them! What are we going to do?" The young human asked, scared of the events happening. His answer was the dark figure igniting his blue lightsaber. The group of younglings were all murdered before they could comprehend what their supposed savior was doing. Soon they were all just corpses on the Council Chamber floor.


Hate, rage, desperation. All around them, they could feel it. On a fiery planet, the dark figure was embracing a woman. Soon a man garbed in the traditional Jedi clothes appeared from the ramp of a silver ship.


"Stop, stop now. Come back! I love you." The woman cried out as she backed away from the man. The figure turned toward the Jedi.


"Liar! You are with him. You've betrayed me!"


"NO!... I swear ▅▃▄▃▅▂▄ I-" she started speaking before the figure reached out with the Force to choke her.


"Let her go," the Jedi asked. The Dark Jedi did no such thing as the woman was losing consciousness.


"What have you been up to?"


"Let her go!" The Jedi yelled until the woman was freed of the attack.


"You've turned her against me."


"You've done that yourself. Your anger, your lust for power, has already done that."


"Don't lecture me. I've seen through the lies of the Jedi. I do not fear the dark side as you do. I have brought peace, justice, freedom, and security to my new Empire." The figure had a dark look on his face while he believed in his actions.


"Your new Empire?" The Jedi was baffled by the statement. There was no peace, justice, or freedom—just chaos and carnage.


"Don't make me kill you."


"▅▃▄▃▅▂▄, my allegiance is to the Republic… to democracy!" While the figure's name went unheard, the three Masters could tell that the Jedi and Dark Jedi were once close to one another.


"If you're not with me, then you are my enemy."


"Only a Sith Lord deals in absolutes. I will do what I must." The Jedi then ignited his lightsaber and took the stance of Form III Soresu.


"You will try." The Dark Jedi ignited his blade and took a combined stance of both Form V styles Shien and Djem So.


Both blue blades slammed against each other in a fury of light. The duel raged on for some time, going through an entire industrial building before moving onto a bridge over a river of lava. Both combatants were skilled, each a warrior forged by their experiences. But it was clear to the Masters that the Jedi was being hurt by his actions of fighting someone that he thought would never betray him.


It wasn't long until the battle moved over the river itself. The two fought while standing atop ferries to keep themselves above the fiery river that wanted to consume them. Separating, the Jedi moves towards the bank of the lava river but not fast enough as the Dark Jedi follows. Fending him off, the Jedi leaps towards the bank and stands on the ash-covered surface.


"I have failed you ▅▃▄▃▅▂▄ I was never able to teach you to think."


"I should have known that the Jedi would try to take over."


"From the Sith! , ▅▃▄▃▅▂▄ he is evil."


"From my point of view, the Jedi are evil."


"Then you are lost."


"This is the end for you, my Master." The Dark Jedi stated, confirming that he was close to the Jedi. It makes sense of the internal conflict the Masters felt the Jedi going through. The Dark Jedi then lept towards the bank engaging his former Jedi Master once more. After crossing blades a few times, the Jedi lept further up the river bank to create space.


"It's over ▅▃▄▃▅▂▄ I have the high ground."


"You underestimate my power!" He yelled, his sulfuric eyes pulsing with hatred.


"Don't try it," The Jedi warned. In arrogance, the Dark Jedi tried to overcome his former Master by leaping over him, but it was for naught. The Jedi quickly cut his fallen student at the knees and then his left arm in a blink of an eye as the Dark Jedi screamed in excruciating pain. There was no hope for the Dark Jedi as his body rolled down the bank to a stop at the edge of the lava river. He tried to crawl back up using his mechanical right hand, only to keep sliding back down. The Jedi then grabbed his student's lightsaber and started walking away.


"You were the Chosen One!" The Jedi yelled down towards the fallen Jedi, whose eyes were pulsing a sulphuric yellow ringed with red. The anger and hate behind the eyes only hurt the Jedi more. "It was you who would bring balance to the Force, not leave it in Darkness."


"I hate you!" That was all the Dark Jedi said before the lava river ignited his clothing. He then burst into flames and started screaming out in pain. Horror was evident in the Jedi's eyes as he watched his once student become engulfed in the fire.


They appeared in a medical room as the dying Dark Jedi clung onto life as droids worked on him. New mechanical arms and legs were attached to his body before he was clothed in black armor. Medical devices were added to his armor before the droids fitted a mask and helmet to him. 'Hhooo…Puurhh' His ominous breathing filled the room.


A figure obscured in shadows walked in, and a medical droid approached. "Lord Sidious, the construction has finished. He will live."


The figure walked to the side of the half-droid/half-man. "Lord Vader, can you hear me?"


"Yes, my Master." Lord Vader looked around the room. "Where is ▅▃▄▃▅▂▄. Is she safe?


"I am afraid that she has died. In your anger, you killed her."


A deep and low groan came from the mask on Vader. Everything in the room started to shake and implode. "No! I could have done this! I felt her; she was alive!" The droids were being destroyed by the power of the Force being used. "NOOOOO!" His painful screams echoed throughout.


Smaller cruisers surrounded a complete grey Star Destroyer. On the bridge stood the two Sith Lords. A large structure loomed a gigantic structure outside the windows, promising destruction.


Then something strange happened with the visions. They were reversing, the flow of time going back to before the start of the vision. A planet they were familiar with appeared, Mandalore. They are moved through one of the cities before stopping in front of a large estate. Its most defining characteristic was the black banners depicting a giant, snarling beast with nine equally large tails.


Soon, they stood in front of a young child no older than eight years old. His complexion was tan, and he had red hair streaked blonde with purple eyes. To their surprise, he was going through the different stances and styles of lightsaber combat with a practice blade. He stopped and looked in their direction, shocking the Jedi Masters further. He looked up and to his left where a specter appeared. He was dressed in old Mandalorian armor. As one, the two nodded before looking towards the Jedi. One word was said that shocked the Masters out of the visions. "Come"


The three Jedi opened their eyes to look at each other, noticing the sweat on their faces from the events they had just witnessed. No one said a word as they tried to gather their thoughts. It was Grand Master Yoda who broke the silence. "Stays between us, this must."


That seemed to have brought the other two masters out of their thoughts as both looked at him. While Master Windu said nothing, it was Master Plo Koon who was unsure of this decision. "Are you sure, Master? Surely what we saw must be brought before the High Council."


"It must. Panic, it will cause, if brought to the council. No, but plan we must." The wise Master spoke. A look of deep concentration and confliction was on his face. While it would be wise to involve the Jedi High Council, he knew it was best to act carefully. Yoda was broken out of his thoughts when Master Windu cleared his throat. "Something to discuss, you have? Hmm, Master Windu."


The human Jedi Master was focused more on the last vision the Force showed them than the others. They were in a distant future, while the last one seemed to be attended urgently. "Yes, Master. While I agree with you on keeping this from the High Council, I believe we shouldn't ignore the last vision." Master Yoda thought on this while Master Plo Koon spoke his mind.


"You speak of the child on Mandalore. I agree. We cannot ignore this. But that specter beside him looked familiar. We also cannot ignore that the child was going through the stances of lightsaber combat forms." The child was an anomaly to him, but the Force seemed to focus on him.


"Agreed." Master Yoda spoke. "This child, chosen by the Force. To Mandalore, we will go. But first, make preparations, we will." With an acknowledgment from the two Masters, they all left the meditation room.


(Coruscant - Jedi Temple - 40 BBY - Two Days After Visions)


Master Yoda was seen walking through the Jedi Temple, looking for someone. It wasn't long before someone almost walked over him. The Jedi was a human male who wore the typical Jedi robes. He had long brown hair, blue eyes, and fair skin. "Master Jin, your help I need."


The now identified Master Jin was confused. It wasn't just any day that the Grand Master of the Jedi order asked for one's help. "It would be my pleasure to help you, Master. What is it that you need?" The answer he received shocked him if he was honest.


"Question I have, for your Padawan," Yoda said as he looked up at the considerably tall Jedi Master.


"Well, ok then, Master. If you follow me, I can take you to Obi-Wan." After agreeing, Jin led the Grand Master through the temple to the Jedi Library, where he knew his Padawan was.


After walking for some time and making idle talk, the two entered the extensive library containing all the knowledge ever collected by the Jedi. Every Jedi they passed while gave a respectful nod to Yoda as many have only ever seen him once, and to see him again was an honor to them. It was not long before they caught sight of a human Padawan.


"Obi-Wan," Master Jin spoke to get his Padawan's attention. It worked as he looked up almost immediately. Obi-Wan had fair skin, auburn hair, and blue eyes.


"Oh, Master Qui-Gon, Master Yoda. Greetings." Obi-Wan spoke. He was surprised to see not just his own Jedi Master but also Grand Master Yoda. Seeing Master Yoda was an honor for any Jedi, no matter their rank.


"Greetings to you, Padawan Kenobi. Question for you, I have. Important it is, to me." Yoda asked.


Now, this surprised both Master Jin and Obi-Wan. To be asked a question by the Grand Master was a rarity. But for him to say it was important, there was no way for Obi-Wan to avoid it. "What is it you have to ask, Master?" Obi-Wan replied.


"Experience and knowledge of Mandalore, you have?" Yoda asked.


"Why yes. Master Qui-Gon and I had a mission to protect the new Duchess of Mandalore, Satine Kryze." Obi-Wan replied.


"While there, a symbol you saw, possibly. A golden creature with nine tails. Laid on a white banner, it was. Hmm?"


A look of confusion appeared on the faces of the Jedi as they tried to understand the question. "Master Yoda, are you asking if we saw such a symbol while on Mandalore?" Qui-Gon asked. Receiving a nod from the small master, both Jedi tried to think back to when they could have seen it. Qui-Gon would rather not think back on it as he was one to focus on the present, not the past, not the future.


"Hmm, I think I do remember seeing it somewhere, Master," Obi-Wan spoke as both Masters focused on him. "It was while I was with Duchess Satine, and she wanted to check in on someone she knew. She did this a few times."


"I don't remember this Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon spoke. "Why would she have risked herself to see one person? That doesn't seem like something she would do from what I gathered about her." Yoda seemed intrigued by this change of events. He would say that Qui-Gon was a good judge of character, and for Duchess Satine to do something not normal for her meant that it was considered above all else to her.


"It was while you were investigating Death Watch movements in Sundari, and some of the other times you weren't with us. I was asked to keep it a secret." Both Jedi nodded before motioning for him to continue. "She took me to the estate of an ancient Mandalore House. According to her, if we went there, we would be safer than if at her family's estate or the Royal Palace." He explained. It confused him as well, if he was honest. The Duchess never gave an apparent reason why it was, only that no one would dare to go there.


"Why, this was?" Yoda asked the Padawan who was trying to figure that out himself.


Gathering his thoughts, Obi-Wan spoke, "I didn't know at first. She just said that Death Watch was not willing to pay the consequences. When we arrived, we were let in by the staff." His face grew conflicted.


"What bothers you, Obi-Wan?" Qui-Gon asked. For his usually vocal apprentice to act like this, well, it didn't look right in his eyes.


"Well, Master, it was the staff that confused me. They weren't like the usual staff that would work at a family estate; all of them carried a weapon of some kind. When I tried to stop the Duchess, the staff welcomed her and brought us to a small child and a Mandalorian warrior."


That shocked both Master Jedi. It was a mystery for a Mandalorian warrior to just be on Mandalore after they were all exiled. But now both Masters wanted to know why Obi-Wan didn't report this. "Why didn't you tell me this, Obi-Wan? I feel as if I should have known this." Qui-Gon asked in a tone that sounded like he was scolding his Padawan.


Said Padawan shrunk a bit at the tone before straightening up and continuing. "Well, when I saw the Mandalorian, I immediately got in front of the Duchess and drew my lightsaber. When he saw me do this, he brought out his blaster pistols, but he wasn't aiming at the Duchess."


"If he wasn't aiming at the Duchess, then who was he aiming at?" Qui-Gon asked. He was now starting to wonder what else his Padawan was keeping from him.


"He was aiming at me before moving in front of the child. I was confused until the Duchess ordered me to put my lightsaber away. While conflicted, I did as asked. Then I noticed that all of the staff in the area had also brandished and aimed weapons at me. She then asked the Mandalorian to do the same. When he didn't, she said that the child would be safe and I wouldn't harm him." While he tried to remember the child's name, he couldn't even begin to wonder what his name started with.


"Before I could say that I would never harm a child, the Mandalorian put his blasters away, as did the staff. He then looked towards the Duchess, and they had some kind of silent conversation before he threw a necklace with a pendant on it. She caught it before putting it around her neck, and he turned toward the child again." That was something to note, both Jedi thought. They both knew that Mandalorian warriors follow ancient traditions, so for this Mandalorian to do this had a significance that they might never understand.


"Continue, please, Padawan Kenobi," Yoda said, wanting to know about the symbol he asked about.


"Oh… yes, now where was I. Right, the Mandalorian then knelt in front of the young boy and said something that I couldn't hear. I only caught him saying, 'This is the Way', and the child responded the same way. I thought I heard the Duchess whisper the same, but it seemed like something reserved for Mandalorian warriors, so I dismissed it." This is the Way. It seemed like some sort of creed to the Jedi, but they couldn't confirm it due to all the different Mandalorian doctrines created throughout history.


Yoda still remembered the story about Mandalore the Destroyer and her ability to rally the Mandalorians to her cause. Even he had to admit that she was a leader to learn from. She was especially known for her quote during the siege of Luon; 'Here's why you can't exterminate us, aruetii. We're not huddled in one place—we span the galaxy. We need no lords or leaders—so you can't destroy our command. We can live without technology—so we can fight with our bare hands. We have no species or bloodline—so we can rebuild our ranks with others who want to join us. We're more than just a people or an army aruetii. We're a culture. We're an idea. And you can't kill ideas—but we can certainly kill you.' He was brought out of his musings by Obi-Wan.


"The Mandalorian then used a jetpack to leave, and before I knew it, the Duchess was kneeling in front of the boy and hugging him while he cried. I felt out of place, so I started looking around the area we were in, and I saw that symbol on multiple banners and paintings. The staff said that it was the sigil of House Uzumaki."


Considering the words of the Padawan, Yoda knew that his question had been answered. "Thank you, Padawan Kenobi. Great help, you have been. Now go, I must." With that said, the small Jedi Master exited the Jedi Library. While searching for his two fellow Jedi in the matter, he contemplated who the child Obi-Wan spoke of was. Could it have been the young boy he saw in the Force? Well, there was only one way to find out. He brought a communicator to his mouth before contacting Masters Windu and Plo Koon. "Masters, after you gather what you need, meet me in the hangars, we depart for Mandalore." After receiving confirmation from both Masters, he changed his direction for the Jedi Temple hangars.


(Mandalore - 40 BBY - Present Day)


A Consular-class cruiser exited hyperspace above the planet of Mandalore. While it was there under the pretense of delivering supplies, it also carried three very important passengers. The three Jedi Masters, Yoda, Mace Windu, and Plo Koon, sat inside the salon pod of the ship.


"We will most likely be stopped as soon as we exit the cruiser," Mace spoke. Both other Jedi agreed with him; Mandalore was not very friendly with the Republic, hasn't been since 262 ARR, and that was 696 years ago. "So if they try to refuse us and make us stay on the ship, we need to ask for an audience with the Duchess. It will be the only chance we have to meet the boy, and from what Padawan Kenobi told Master Yoda, she has a very close relationship with him."


"Correct, you are," Master Yoda replied. "An audience, we shall ask for."


As the ship descended through the atmosphere of the once beautiful planet, the three Jedi started to meditate, preparing themselves mentally for the answers they would receive. Would the answers help them, or would they just get more questions?


(Mandalore - Sundari)


Walking out behind the cargo being dropped off was the Jedi, and they were proved correct in their earlier assumption. As soon as the three set foot on the landing pad, they were surrounded by Mandalorian Protectors and Mandalorian Guard. Looking around, the Jedi noticed that there were too many Protectors and Guard around them for them just arriving. Someone knew that they were coming.


A Mandalorian Protector stepped forward and addressed the Jedi, "You are to re-enter your ship and leave immediately, Jedi. You are not welcome here in Sundari or on Mandalore." There was an edge in his voice, which most would find strange in a New Mandalorian, but the Jedi understood why. It was Master Plo Koon who stepped forward before a few Mandalorian Guards brandished some stun batons.


"We mean no harm. All we wish is for an audience with the Duchess, Satine Kryze." Plo Koon said. Every Mandalorian Protector and Guard in the area tensed, and the Jedi noticed this; they were ready to fight the Jedi if it came to it. "It is of the most importance. So please, if we could get an audience, it would be most helpful."


The staredown continued for a few more moments until who the Jedi assumed was the leader grabbed a communicator and spoke to someone through it. The Jedi didn't fail to notice the increasing number of Mandalorian Protectors and Guard joining the force barring them to the landing platform. It wasn't long until a spreader showed up with only two Protectors in it. One of the Protectors got out and walked up to the Jedi.


"You three are to come with me to meet Duchess Satine. I will warn you of this one time. If we even think you have ill intent towards the Duchess, you will be dealt with." He said in a cold and deep voice. The Jedi could only nod before being led onto the speeder and heading towards the Sundari Royal Palace.


After arriving at the main entrance, the Protectors led them to another speeder to take them through multiple corridors. It was not long before they reached a platform with large doors behind it. After getting off the speeder, the Jedi waited for the door to open as the guards quickly surrounded them.


While the Jedi were waiting, they started to feel through the force and felt the emotions around them. Anxiousness and weariness were the main ones felt by the guards around them, but the emotions on the other side of the doors caught their attention. Fear greeted them. While not small enough for a Jedi Master to miss it, it was large enough for even a seasoned Padawan to sense it.
Soon, the large doors started to open gradually. Once the doors were fully open, the Jedi were led before the young Duchess of Mandalore. "Hello Jedi, I am Duchess Satine Kryze of Mandalore." She spoke with a regal voice. "What business do you have on Mandalore?" While she hid it well, there was fear bubbling up inside of her, and she didn't know why.


"Thank you, Duchess, for the audience you granted us. Jedi Master Yoda, I am. With me, Masters Mace Windu and Plo Koon." Yoda spoke in his odd manner while the other Masters bowed.

"Brought here, we were. A vision, the force showed us."


"I don't know much about this Force you speak of, only that Padawan Kenobi and his Master used it to protect me and my family." She was being honest. The only answer you would get from a Mandalorian when asked about the Force was that it was the sorcery used by the Jedi. "But I will indulge you. What did this vision show you?"


"Unclear, most is. But something of Mandalore, it showed us." Yoda knew he had to be careful with his words. One thing said wrong, and he and his fellow Jedi would be on a ship back to Coruscant. "A symbol, it showed, along with a child."


"A symbol you say, well that doesn't narrow it down much, Master Jedi. In the history of Mandalore, there have been countless symbols." The longer the talk went on, the more her earlier fear grew. She had a feeling that the words spoken next would confirm if her fear were reasonable or not.


"Red hair, the child had." Well, that could be any child on Mandalore. Quite a few Mandalorians shared the trait of red hair, her sister included. "And a banner, white it was with a beast." A pit formed in her stomach. 'Oh no!' Satine thought. While it narrowed the answer down, neither option was good for various reasons. "Golden it was, with nine tails."


And with that said, Satine's fear was realized. The Jedi had come for her family. While not family in blood, she was the one who raised the child they were talking about. When his parents died when he was barely two years old, she was there when his uncle couldn't be. When his uncle was forced to leave when he was four, she was there again. She couldn't let them take him, not now, not ever.


As if sensing her thoughts, the dark-skinned Jedi spoke up. "I mean no disrespect, my lady, but this is of the utmost importance. In the vision, it was the boy who called us here. So, if you could, please let us know where we can find this boy."


After that was said, any argument Satine had died in her throat. She was always told he would have a great destiny by his parents and uncle, and now fate was forcing her to accept it. "Guards!" She called out. "Prepare some speeders. It seems that my guests and I must pay a visit to House Uzumaki." A Protector left with a grunt of confirmation while the others formed around the Duchess.


As two speeders moved through Sundari, a multitude of thoughts and feelings were going through the passengers' heads. From the worry and apprehension of Satine to the wonder and curiousness of the Jedi. Passing by the various cubed-shaped buildings of the city, many of the citizens wondered who the three people in robes were with the Duchess.


She could still remember the night Naruto's Mother told her about what her son would do. It was the day of his first birthday.


(Flashback)


(House Uzumaki Estate)


"Satine, come here, please." A woman kindly spoke. Satine walked over to the woman. She was in her late twenties and had pale skin, long red hair, and purple eyes. This was Kushina Uzumaki, the current head of House Uzumaki.


"Yes, Lady Kushina. Is there something you need?" Satine asked.


"What did I say about calling me Lady, Satine? It makes me feel old." Kushina admonished her in a teasing tone. "Well, we wanted to talk to you about something important.


'Wait, we?' Satine thought. She turned around to see two men standing behind her. Both were around Kushina's age, but visual similarities ended there. The younger of the two had tan skin, spiky blonde hair, and blue eyes, while the older one had tan skin darker than the first, medium-length black hair, and brown eyes. These were Minato and Jango Fett.


"Don't get nervous, Kryze. We aren't going to bite." Jango snarked. She didn't find it funny. She was surrounded by three of the most dangerous Mandalorians, and she was a pacifist. "What we have to say isn't just important for you, but for all of Mandalore."


Important for all of Mandalore, now that intrigued her. "What do you mean?"


"Satine, what exactly do you know about the main branch of House Uzumaki?" Kushina asked the young girl.


"I know what the history books tell everyone," Satine answered. "House Uzumaki is one of the few surviving major houses of Mandalore alongside Houses Kryze, Vizsla, and Kast." She thought a little more before continuing. "It is said that House Uzumaki were the first humans to join the Taungs in their crusades."


"Correct, but you didn't mention the most important information about House Uzumaki. And that is that members of the main line of the family are almost always Force-sensitive."


"Force… sensitive?" Satine asked, confused. She seemed to remember the words being mentioned before by the women in front of her, but she didn't know why.


"Yes, Force-sensitive. You might know it better as the sorcery used by the Jedi." That got a reaction out of the girl. Almost everyone knew of the strange powers used by the Jedi. "The thing is, my son and I are the last members of the main line. And a prophecy has been passed down in my family, given to us by Mandalore the Ultimate himself."


"Why tell me this?!" Satine asked with apprehension. "I am the future leader of the New Mandalorians. We oppose everything that you and the True Mandalorians stand for!"


"Because Satine," Minato finally spoke. "We have concluded that you will have a part to play in this prophecy in the future. It is called the Prophecy of Mandalore for a reason." Before she could get a word in, Minato continued. "The prophecy goes as follows. The galaxy will fall into darkness unless a child of the Great Fox can rise. Behind them, many shall follow. Allies shall reach greatness, while enemies shall reach destruction. Bearing a great power, they will lead the galaxy to prosperity. Using both the dark and the light will they accomplish this. Peace will be brought to the galaxy, but the wars will not be forgotten."


"I don't think I understand," Satine stated. She was overwhelmed by what was just said to her. "You believe that little Naruto is the one of this prophecy?" Weren't prophecies just told in children's tales?


"Right now, you don't need to understand," Jango spoke. "Just know that in the future, you will need to make a decision."


"He is right, Satine," Kushina spoke up. "Naruto has a great destiny ahead of him. And we hope that when the time comes, you will be there to help him. This isn't just for the sake of Mandalore, but the sake of the entire galaxy."


"I… I don't think I can decide all of this right now." Satine sated as her voice wavered.


"And as my brother said," Minato started, "right now, you don't need to. This is all in the future, and you will know when to make the decision."


(Flashback)


"My Lady," A guard's voice broke her out of her reminiscence. "We have arrived at the estate of House Uzumaki." She looked up and gazed at the snarling face of a fox on the gates.


"Thank you, let us get going."She responded as she walked off of her speeder. The Jedi followed behind her and her guards, but she noticed one thing. The three seemed to now be on guard and were looking around. They sensed something she couldn't see. "I must welcome you now, Jedi, to the estate of House Uzumaki."


When the Duchess and the Jedi neared the estate, the gates opened to reveal an assortment of servants ready to greet them. The Jedi noticed the common trait of white and gold clothing worn by the people. Looking closer, they could see the weapons that Obi-Wan spoke of.


"Duchess Satine," a woman spoke. "Lord Naruto has been waiting for your arrival." This intrigued the Jedi. From what they knew, the Duchess never sent a message during the entire time they were with her.


"So he has, well, take us to him, please," Satine stated. "Knowing Naruto, he will not even notice us enter." As she said that, the servant led them throughout the estate, with the others returning to their duties.


As they were walking, Plo Koon spoke up. "Duchess Satine, would you mind telling us about young Naruto?" He and his fellow Jedi were curious to know more about the one the Force was leading them to.


"Of course," Satine answered. "His parents fought in the Civil War and were killed, stopping a Death Watch terrorist attack. His uncle was also a member of the True Mandalorians, so I have been the one to mostly raise him outside of the staff here. He is like the little brother I never knew I needed."


That interested the Jedi. The connection between the Duchess and the child was stronger than they thought. This could make the coming conversation very interesting.


"He was once a boy who always smiled, but over the past two years, he has changed. He smiles less and spends more time reading about the history of Mandalore meditating." She said with a sad smile. "Outside of myself and my sister, I don't think he has smiled at many people."


"So he has become somewhat of a recluse then, Duchess? While it is strange for someone of his age, it is not uncommon for someone who has lost family." Plo Koon spoke. "In my travels across the galaxy, I have met many who stop talking completely because of the loss of those close to them."


While his words were wise, they didn't stop the hurt that filled Satine's heart. She has tried to bring back the radiant child she helped raise, the one who quickly became family to her. "You might be right, and we should count ourselves lucky then."


After a few more minutes of walking through the expansive hallways, they came upon a pair of large doors. Before the servant could move to open them, they moved on their own. While the people around them were not surprised by the action, besides the guards of the Duchess, the Jedi felt something. It was the Force. Someone had used the Force to open the doors.


Looking around as they entered, the three Masters saw a multitude of paintings depicting the past of Mandalore. From the original Taung species to the Mandalorian Wars to the recent Mandalorian Civil War. They showed everything. On one wall alone were paintings of every Mandalore to have ever been. But what amazed the Jedi even more were the paintings depicting the Jedi and the Sith.
Focusing in front of them, they saw the child of their Force vision. While he did acknowledge their presence, the Jedi could tell he was focused on the Duchess. "I was beginning to wonder if I needed to come to you, Satine." The boy spoke while the Jedi were curious about why he said that.


"What do you mean by that, Naruto?" Satine asked.


"You should know that you can't hide your emotions from me. They were getting more erratic by the moment." He replied, proving the suspicions of the Jedi. The one who used the Force was the one they were searching for. "So, let's talk."


As the group sat down, servants quickly brought tea as the guards walked back to the hallway and shut the doors. It seemed to the Jedi that even they were not allowed to hear this conversation.


"Naruto, I would like to introduce you to Jedi Grand Master Yoda and Jedi Masters Mace Windu and Plo Koon," Satine said as each Master gave acknowledgment at the mention of their name. "They have come to Mandalore to see you."


"I know," Naruto replied. "I saw them in my dreams, the ones I told you about." Now the Jedi were intrigued, but they noticed a look of concern and conflict cross Satine's visage.


"If you knew they were coming, why didn't you tell me, Naruto?" Satine asked while feeling hurt. She thought Naruto trusted her and would tell her about something like this.


"Well, I would have if I knew exactly when they were coming. And to me, it looks like you already knew they would be arriving." He answered. "Now, I think the Jedi want to talk."


"Hmm. Interesting, you are, young Uzumaki." Yoda started. "Mandalore, we came to, after a vision, the Force showed us. Something similar, you have seen, yes?" While gauging his expressions, Yoda also felt Naruto through the Force. And what he felt must have been felt based on their sudden emotions spike. The Force seemed to surround the boy in front of them in a blanket of protectiveness.


"I think I know what you are talking about. But I more of felt than saw." Naruto explained. "The things I see are not clear to me most of the time and make no sense. So, I just focus on the emotions I can feel."


"And what did you feel?"


"I felt fear, pain, despair… death. It was everywhere, and something covered everything up in darkness." The emotions Naruto spoke about, the ones the Jedi saw in his eyes, told them enough. What Naruto saw changed him. For one so young to experience this, it worried the Jedi.


Before the silence went on, Mace Windu broke it. "From what you have told us and what we experienced, we believe you are Force-sensitive." Satine gained a worried face while Naruto seemed broken from a trance.


"If what you say is true, may I ask you to do something then?" Naruto asked in a quiet voice, compared to the even tone he spoke in earlier. The Jedi nodded as Naruto stood up and stuck out a fist. "I will need one of you to bump my fist while the other two grab onto your shoulders."


While the request was strange, the Jedi complied while Satine looked on confused. Master Windu stepped forward while Master Plo Koon sat Yoda on Windu's right shoulder before gripping his left. Master Windu reached forward with his fist, and as they touched, everything turned white.


When their sight returned, the Jedi noticed that the Duchess was nowhere to be seen, and Naruto was not in front of them. A world of white had surrounded them. Hearing footsteps, they turned around to see Naruto, but he was not alone. By his side was the same specter they had seen in the vision.


"Greetings, Jedi," the specter spoke in a deep voice. "My name is Tarre Vizsla. You may know me better as Mandalore the Knight." That shocked the Jedi, as they knew very well who Mandalore the Knight was.


"How are you here?" Master Windu asked. "You died during the Ruusan Campaign during the Light and Darkness War." He was conflicted, as were his fellow Masters. The man in front of them was Legend among the more knowledgeable Jedi. A Mandalorian who became a Jedi Knight.


"I am here because of the Force." The looks on the Jedi's faces did not change, so he took a different approach. "There is still much you do not understand about the Force. What I am about to tell you, you mustn't tell anyone else."


"Ask of us, you do, to keep this secret. Jedi Council, I assume." Yoda spoke in speculation.


"Yes, especially the Jedi Council. While I know of your status as council members, they are not ready for the information that I am about to divulge to you."


Sharing a look, the Jedi nodded. "Understand, we do."


"Through the Force, one can gain a form of immortality. When I died, I became one with the Force. But with a form of training that I discovered in a Holocron, I achieved this." While saying this, a grimace formed on his face.


"Troubles you, something does?" Yoda asked.
"Yes, it was the source I learned this training from. The source was a Sith in origin, created by a Darth Vitiate. But, the information was incomplete, erased."


"A Sith Lord created it!" Mace exclaimed. "Why would you learn a technique from the Sith? They are the enemy of the Jedi."


"I was going to destroy the information immediately, but when I glimpsed at some of the information not erased, I had to learn it. All in order to understand." While they only saw the grimace on his face, his eyes told a different story. Apprehension was evident in the eyes of the Mandalorian Jedi.


"Discovered, something you did?" Yoda asked.


"Yes, I did. It was stated that he was not the first to do this and that both Jedi and Sith can learn it. The Holocron also hinted at the technique being improved by this Darth Vitiate. He learned to transfer his spirit to other bodies."


That was not good to hear. The visions that the Force showed them were bad enough, but now Tarre informed them of an ancient Sith Lord who was possibly still alive. Unsure of what to say, Plo Koon spoke up.


"So, I take it you have a plan to stop this Sith Lord." While he was composed on the outside, the Kel Dorian was trying to think of any possible connections between the Sith and the Force vision.


"Yes, and that plan involves young Naruto here." When he said that, all three Jedi looked over to the young boy they forgot was there. Looking over at him, they noticed him meditating and were surprised. The Force seemed to blanket the boy as if trying to protect him from any possible danger.


"Yes, the Force favors the boy, it does." Yoda agreed.


"As you all know of the Jedi Prophecy that foretells the Chosen One, what if I told you of another prophecy? A prophecy that was clearer and spoke of the same Chosen One." Tarre spoke as the Jedi turned their full attention to him at the mention of the prophecy.


"Clearer, you say?" Yoda questioned. "A prophecy, of the Chosen One."


"Yes, what I speak is truth. This prophecy has been passed down the main line of House Uzumaki since the days of Mandalore the Ultimate." That caught their attention. "It is something that Naruto already knows of, but he has asked me to inform you of it."


"Speak, please, Tarre."


"The galaxy will fall into darkness unless a child of the Great Fox can rise. Behind them, many shall follow. Allies shall reach greatness, while enemies shall reach destruction. Bearing a great power, they will lead the galaxy to prosperity. Using both the dark and the light will they accomplish this. Peace will be brought to the galaxy, but the wars will not be forgotten." Tarre spoke. "These are the words that Mandalore the Ultimate told House Uzumaki almost three thousand years ago."


Tarre walked over to Naruto and kneeled beside him as the Jedi contemplated his words.


"What do you think, Master Yoda?" Master Plo Koon asked. The small Master was still thinking before he spoke up.


"His destiny, the Force has decided."


"I'm afraid I don't fully understand," Plo Koon replied.


"A Jedi, he will not be. But help him, we must."

Both Jedi Masters were shocked at his statement. They tried to think of a response but could not; instead, they thought on his words and the words of the prophecy.


"What do you suggest we do, Master?" Mace asked.


"Holocrons, we brought. The reason, this is." Yoda stated. Both Jedi Masters' eyes widened. While they were gathering what they would need for this trip, the Force whispered to them, insisting that they brought their Holocrons with them. While confused and suspicious, they did what the Force asked of them.


"You think the Force wants young Naruto to learn from our Holocrons?" Mace questioned.


"Yes, I do," Yoda answered. "Balance he will need, from us, he shall learn."


While they seemed reluctant, the Jedi agreed to follow the words of their Grand Master. They soon joined the two Mandalorians in meditation before, as one, they opened their eyes.


"You have something to say, Master Jedi?" Naruto asked.


"Yes, young one," Yoda replied as he felt the Force around the boy. "Destiny as a Jedi, yours is not. But help you, we will."


Naruto seemed not to be surprised by the not being a Jedi part, but the part about helping him did. "Help me how? I thought that if I was not a Jedi, then I could not be taught about the Force."


"A greater destiny, you have. Both dark and light, you will need." Yoda explained. "The light, we will be. The dark, you must find. The balance, you will become."


"Then I must thank you. Not many outside of the servants, House Kryze, and Tarre have shown me kindness. So, again, I thank you." Naruto said as he bowed to the three in front of him.


"There is no reason to thank us, young Uzumaki," Mace stated. "But I must ask, what do you plan to do now?" All three Jedi were curious for the answer as they knew that a Force-sensitive would most likely not be welcome on Mandalore.


"Myself, along with the servants of House Uzumaki, plan to leave Mandalore. To prepare for the prophecy, I must learn a great many things. I can't do that here." Naruto responded. "We already have transport ready. The only thing stopping us was waiting for your arrival." He seemed to want to say more but stopped himself.


"Something troubles you, young Uzumaki," Mace stated more than questioned.


"Yes. While Tarre has explained to me that I must do this, I… I just wonder what will become of Satine and Bo." Naruto explained.


"Bo?" Mace questioned.


"Yeah, Bo-Katan. She is Satine's sister, just a year younger than me. I worry for them."


"I understand," Plo Koon said. "Trust me, even as a Jedi, I understand these feelings. All I can say is this, focus on your mission right now. When the time is right, you will know when to return to those you care for."


"He is correct, Naruto," Tarre spoke up. "While to your young mind, what we are doing may seem small. It is bigger than every one of us right now. A time will come for you to return to Mandalore. Just wait for the sign from the Force."


Naruto listened to everything that the four Jedi said to him. But Tarre and Plo Koon were right, he didn't understand everything yet, and a time would come for him to return. "Ok," Naruto replied with a bit of sadness in his tone. "I think we should tell Satine of what is going to happen."


The white world once again turned bright, blinding the Jedi Masters. When their vision returned, they noticed that they now sat in chairs. Looking for Naruto, the Jedi saw him lying on a couch with his head in the Duchess's lap. She was staring at the paintings on the walls with sadness while one of her hands ran through Naruto's hair. It was not long when he also woke up.


The Duchess whispered something they couldn't hear to Naruto, but they heard him reply with a tired yes. Naruto sat up but leaned into her side while she pulled him close; whatever Naruto did so they could talk in private must have taken a lot of energy. But the Jedi did notice something. The relationship was akin to a mother and son and less of the sister and brother relationship Satine spoke of earlier.


"Duchess Satine," Plo Koon called out. "We would like to inform you that we will not be taking Naruto with us to become a Jedi." Her mood seemed to brighten at that.


"So, he will not be taken then? He is to stay on Mandalore." She asked. The hope in her voice was not unheard by anyone.


"I'm sorry, but I am not saying that." Plo Koon said. The hope she was feeling died, and sadness filled her eyes. "Before I say anymore, I must ask, do you know of the Prophecy of Mandalore?" A hesitant nod was her answer. "Then you must know that Naruto is destined for something greater than being a Jedi."


"Just say it already." Satine forced out. "What is going to happen to Naruto then?"


"Naruto must leave Mandalore and forge the path that leads the Galaxy to prosperity." Plo Koon said. He continued when the Duchess tried to interrupt him. "And I am sorry to say this, but leaving tonight would be best for him to get started."


"He is a child! How would he be able to survive for that long on his own? He can't even pilot a speeder yet, and you expect him to fly a ship?" Satine voiced out hotly. She was about to continue when she felt someone grasp her hand. Looking down, she noticed it was Naruto. His big, childish eyes bore into hers, trying to convey what he felt.


"I'll be fine, Satine," He said calmly. "I will have all of my servants with me. You know that they fought in the Civil War, so I will be protected."


"Still, what if you are attacked by something they can't protect you from? What will you do then?" She asked.


"Well, if it comes to that, then I would think that someone replaced them." He said with a slight smile. "You don't need to worry. Plus, I have a feeling that I will end up where I need to be soon enough."


"He is right, my lady," a voice spoke. "With us with him, he will come to no harm." Everyone turned towards the voice and noticed a large group of people dressed in white and gold Mandalorian armor, bearing the crest of House Uzumaki proudly.


"I take it you have been planning this for a while then, Naruto?" Satine asked with sadness.


"Yes, as soon as I started having the dreams and when I was told of the prophecy. The ship is already prepared in the hangar on the edge of the estate." Naruto spoke as he couldn't look into her eyes. He didn't know what he would see in her eyes if he did.


"What about Bo, Naruto? Have you thought about what this would do to her?" Satine asked in one last attempt to get him to stay.


"Yes, I have. But I know that if I were to see Bo again, I wouldn't be able to leave. I know doing this will hurt her, but she still has you. Just make sure she is safe for me, please." Naruto said with a resigned tone.


"...Alright then, let us get you to your ship." She replied.


The walk to the hangar was slow for all and arduous for some. The Mandalorians were walking around the group in a protective formation. Behind the Duchess and Naruto, the Jedi walked calmly, knowing that the galaxy would soon be on the path to peace and balance.


When they got closer to the hanger, the doors opened, revealing a large ship. It mainly was gray with red accents and built like a Corellian Engineering Corporation freighter. The Mandalorians went ahead to the ship and boarded with two waiting by the boarding ramp.


"I don't think I have seen a ship of this build before, but it seems familiar." Plo Koon said.


"This ship was given to my parents by the CEC as payment for saving the CEO's life. It is a ZT-800 Heavy Transport. My parents named it Akatsuki." Naruto replied. He took an extra step ahead of everyone else and turned around to face them. "I guess this is it, huh."


"Yes, but know this, Naruto." Satine started as she stepped forward to hug him. "You will always have a home on Mandalore, and don't forget that." She was doing all she could to hold back her tears.


"Thank you, Satine," Naruto said as he was less successful in holding back his tears. "I also want you to have this as a sign that House Uzumaki will always come to your aid." He held out a necklace with a fox head pendant. Satine accepted the necklace, repeating the actions she and Naruto's uncle did from four years ago. Tears started to roll down her face as she finally accepted what was happening. It was then that the Jedi stepped forward.


"Young Naruto, something to give you, we do," Yoda spoke. Naruto turned to face them as the three reached into their robes and brought out three objects. They were cube-shaped and had a blue glow.


"What are those?" Naruto asked, curiosity in his eyes.


"Holocrons, these are," The Grandmaster replied. "Use these, you will, for training. Hold our teachings, they do. Learn, you will." While confused, Naruto did as instructed.


"Thank you, Masters," Naruto said. With a final goodbye, Naruto walked up the ramp of the Akatsuki, followed by the two Mandalorians. After the Jedi and the Duchess cleared away, the ship took off, exiting Sundari and leaving Mandalore altogether.


"See him again, you will," Yoda told the Duchess.
"Yes, I will," Satine replied.


The group walked back to the estate, meeting up with the Duchess's guards before departing on the speeders. One went back to the Royal Palace while the other went to the Republic ship. One thing was certain; the galaxy will go through a big change and one for the better. For the Child of Prophecy has started his journey.