'Naruto Shippuden' spoilers: new arc to begin in January; Sasuke story arc full schedule revealed

"Naruto Shippuden" is now focused on story arcs that took place after the Great Ninja War. The first one focuses on Sasuke's path to redemption and the complete schedule for this arc has been revealed.

Based on "Sasuke Shinden: Book of Sunrise," the story arc was launched back on Dec. 1 and continued last week, Dec. 8.

The third episode, which will serve as episode 486 of "Naruto Shippuden," is called "Sasuke's Story: Sunrise, Part 3: Fushin" and will air on Thursday, Dec. 15.

This installment will see Sasuke tread the Hell Valley as he continues his journey to atone for the sins he committed in the past and looks forward to a better future.

"Naruto Shippuden" episode 487 is "Sasuke's Story: Sunrise, Part 4: Kerryugan" and will air on Dec. 22. Interestingly, the final episode in this story arc, "Sasuke's Story: Sunrise, Part 5: The Last Man," won't air until Jan. 5.

The following week, "Naruto Shippuden" will focus on what Shikamaru has been up to after the war. It will be based on the Naruto book series, "Shikamaru Hiden: A Cloud Drifting in Silent Darkness."

It is unknown how many episodes the Shikamaru-centered "Naruto Shippuden" arc will last, but it is a safe bet there will be five episodes, like the Sasuke one.

This arc will follow Shikamaru, who is yet to let go of his lazy attitude and hopes to simply watch the clouds instead of doing some work. However, as he makes his attempt to do so, he is pulled into a mystery that involves the disappearances of young men.

After these story arcs, "Naruto Shippuden" will shift its focus on "Konoha Hiden: The Perfect Day for a Wedding," in which Kakashi will work hard to make sure the people invited to attend Naruto and Hinata's wedding, will be able to attend bearing gifts despite their busy schedules.