Well I have gotten your attention, and I will try hard to keep it that way. This is a unique story that will emerge. I am forewarning this is an AU, and therefore it will not follow the story line of the manga/anime series. Also if you as a reader would like to review to send either critique or compliment you are more than welcome. Once again thank you for deciding to read this story. Hope you enjoy!

Final Update for this Chapter: 3/14/2005 9:24 PM

Chapter Word Count: 7886

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or anything part of the manga. I am doing this fan fiction for fun and not for profit.


"Personal Thoughts"

"" Dialogue spoken

(Notes)

BOLD – Kyuubi speaking


BLADE OF DESTINY

BY: Crimson-Strike


Chapter 1 – Transcending Cosmos


What is your source of power? Could it possibly be love or hate? Where does one find the strength and courage to face the cruel reality known as fate? What would one do when things never go right, and chaos erupts? Will one be standing strong once the smoke of the battlefield had cleared away? What lengths would one go to sacrifice themselves for others?

"Pity we had to resort to this" as one of the three Elder Council worded out quietly under his breath. Still the wind effortlessly carried the voice far enough for the remaining Elder council member to hear and they can't help but agree with the statement with grim faces.

These three members are participating in a sacred and secret act hoping to prevent further disaster. In their clan, given the name, rank and honor of an Elder Council, with no recollection of their real name are currently gathered in the meeting chamber. Their duty, determination and faith for their clan had allowed them to transcend into the noble rank. For with this rank came great power and responsibility, one which they are doing with great heart.

"Only if there was a way to prevent this dilemma", as the second Elder Council yearned not to perform this burden.

"It was something we did not see coming" as the final Elder council could do nothing but wondered if they are doing the correct thing.

What responsibility you might ask? What clan they are part of? The answer to these questions can be answer only if we look at the bigger picture.

It all started with the emergence of an unspeakable evil diabolical creature seeking control of all realms in the universe going by the name of Karimystic the Fallen. Various villages had no information or any inclination of the presence of this evil. Instead the realm of earth is protected by several ancient clans, continuing to battle in order to safe guard their realm. Nevertheless even leaders from these clans had no definite answer as to where he had originated from, but they definitely felt his presence. For now tranquility will forever be in a constant battle with chaos influenced by this impiety.

However the greatest extent of his power was felt when he claimed the mind of Orochimaru.

Orochimaru, encompassing snake-like qualities considered an elite ninja, sufficient to have merit status as one of the legendary Sannin. Jealousy was breathed into Orochimaru once he saw Jiraiya's power rising beyond his, which was the only fuel required by Karimystic to claim the upset mind of Orochimaru.

Orochimaru had always shown tremendous potential as a child in an era where war ubiquitous. There lives consisted of various battles, wars, and several competitions still striving to create a life beside just a killing tool.

Even though Orochimaru had proven to be an efficient ninja, the Third Hokage was surprised when it was discovered that Orochimaru contain blood of a special Dragon. The Hokage had immediately notified an ancient clan experienced in handling this rare blood. From this ancient clan their Leader, Elder Councils, and several medical experts arrived from their clan, performing test, question and observing to verify this unique find.

Finally after many countless hours, Orochimaru's blood showed evidence of a rare type of dragon, the only type suited to be trained in the ways of the Red Dragon Disciple. Rarely had any ninja showed potential and blood to be trained in the ways of The Red Dragon Disciple. Red Dragon Disciples are ninjas which carried the blood of red Dragon, which the most powerful warriors of the Draconian clan came from. During one summer, Orochimaru was taken to the clan, initiating his training in the ways of the Draconian clan.

Being instated into the clan to become stronger, Orochimaru insecurity about lacking in power when compared to Jiraiya was soon forgotten.

Draconian clan, are an ancient and secretive clan created with the sole propose to defend their realm, earth. Orochimaru surprised many in the clan when their legendary sword, Avarte reacted to the presence of Orochimaru. Bestowed upon the clan by the founder and his red dragon companion, the sword symbolized the heart and soul of Draconian clan. Rumor circulated in the clan proving way that a promising knight will immerge, evidence pointing towards the Sannin from Hidden Leaf Village, the one and only Jiraiya.

The arrival of Jiraiya didn't seat to well with Orochimaru, in which their rivalry once again went downhill. Rivalry between two friends were meant for competition to get stronger, however to Orochimaru it's was more then just becoming powerful. To Orochimaru, he wanted to see Jiraiya humiliated, wanted to feel superior, and he would do anything to make Jiraiya appear weaker. Jiraiya did not processed all the qualities needed to become a noble Draconian knight, however was given basic knight training, where council believed his true abilities will soon manifest.

After receiving sufficient trainings from the clan, both Orochimaru and Jiraiya returned to the village to take part of the Jounin Exam. However either by destiny or by dumb luck, the two teammates found each other in elimination battle, eventually Jiraiya stood victorious. The victory once again sparked the resentment within Orochimaru, whose only desire was to defeat Jiraiya at all cost. Not even carrying the noblest blood of the clan, and commanding the epic sword could calm the manic thoughts of snake Sannin. It was shortly after the Jounin Exam, did the bond between Orochimaru and Karimystic finally manifested.

Evil had obtained a huge edge in its constant battle toward what is good. For Karimystic was able to tempt the one thing Orochimaru desired. His thirsts for new Justus become too tremendous to be quenched by the teachers, which he believed by learning many jujitsu, he will become more powerful than Jiraiya. On one faithful day, like the brooding of a nauseating storm, Orochimaru abandoned the village killing swiftly anyone who got in the way, leaving nothing for his conquest to achieve his ultimate goal of becoming the greatest ninja.

Many things occurred on that day, events that will forever change the future on the realm called earth. Several individuals began to evolve, preparing oneself for the future adversity that will follow.

Calamity return full force as Hidden Leaf Village was the epicenter of catastrophe, as having one of the legendary Sannin transformed into an agent of evil. Orochimaru heavily induced with dark aura saw no beauty in the world, to prevent him from his murderous slaughter. Nothing could restrain the evil emitting out of Orochimaru; destruction following as he hungrily performed missions for his master, eager for the chance of learning new technique.

The greatest impact was felt on another Sannin called Jiraiya, whom was just heartbroken to see a member turn traitor in front of his eyes. He never in a million years would imagined his teammate, whom he had face many trials of life to abandon his friendship as well as his duty.

Jiraiya overwhelmed with sorrow and guilt, search desperately to find solitude to help him escape his pain. His place of solitude, his place of relief, his place to escape the cruelty called reality, was discovered when he walk upon a place bestowing a beautiful waterfall. Top of the cliff, water flowed vigorously, a large piece of flat stone existed alone in the violent currents of the river but sufficient enough for anyone to comfortably sit. Jiraiya could not help be amused that the stone symbolize his life, a life where he is in the middle of a chaotic violent world, just as the stone is middle of the river ready to be engulfed.

Jiraiya found tremendous relief, because the whole environment just helped him relax. Maybe it was due the fresh scent of water flowing, helping to cleanse the scent of blood. Maybe it was the steam rising from the fast moving currents, releasing tension in his muscle. Maybe just surrounded with lush grassland, sweet smelling flower, and wildlife helped him once again to see the beauty of life. A feeling that even if the world is a cruel dark place, there is always place shining brightly and life is a gift one need to cherish.

Jiraiya spend a great deal of time at his sanctuary, but never realized that he was being watched all the time. Things have been planed, things will happened for a reason, and things will continue to happen which we will have little control. Jiraiya just happened to stumble upon this little thing called destiny.

For it was his destiny to walk in the rank of an elite and rare warrior, a Draconian Knight. Warriors of Draconian heritage consisted of basic fundamentals in the way of the ninja, but also carried an even greater burden. These warriors' sole responsibility is not just to maintain peace, balance and protecting various ninja that are too weak to do so themselves. In addition they trained hard to protect there realm called earth from various outer forces desperate to gain the rich recourses earth has to offer.

Jiraiya never had any inclination that a rare unique type of blood was cursing though his very body. However a secret organization had envisaged the destiny of Jiraiya.

Underneath that waterfall, there existed an egg which had been reacting to the presences of Jiraiya, which made the clan overjoyed for having a true draconian knight appear. Now the egg did not contained just any creature, for inside there existed a very loyal, skillful and powerful creature. A creature called a dragon, the perfect companion for a Draconian in their quest to protect.

Members of the Clan were pleased when it was discovered Jiraiya will soon bond with a dragon in the wild. Most knights would be trained with adult dragon taken out of the wild, with no chance of building any type of bond with the creature. However it had been a proven fact in the clan, based on past example, that any bonding with a young dragon out in the wild, there teamwork and power will be incredible.

Dragons are gentle creature, but their power forces respect. Call it destiny, call it fate, heck even call it luck, but the creature inside will forever be bonded to the will of Jiraiya.

Jiraiya was bewildered when the ground began to shake violently, surprised once a baby dragon erupted out of the waterfall, hovering before him. Dragons, a mystical creature rarely discussed in the academy, where the only description written was the creature look like an overgrown lizard, loaded with ugly scales and deathlike wings. If the appearance of the dragon did not scared away predators then their brutal strength should. However all thoughts was nonexistent as Jiraiya glanced at the beauty before him. There stood a hatchling with most piercing eyes, yet specks of curiosity flared in those eyes. The scale which was silky smooth shine brilliantly off the rays from the sun, as the wings appeared slender, thin, but powerful burst of wind dissipated when the hatchling flapped his wings. Slowly and cautiously the head came down closer to inspect Jiraiya, recognition was seen in the eyes of the dragon, instantly the young dragon crouched down, beckoning Jiraiya to climb aboard.

He had never witnessed a more magnificent creature than the dragon before him and his body numbed from the apparent shocking revelation of what stood before him.

As if his body is possessed by the scrutiny of the dragon, he never realized he had accompanied the back of the dragon. That one step had forever changed his life, as his path to Draconian Knight has finally commenced.

Gone though intense trainings and trials, Jiraiya became recognized as a highly known Knight, many praise of his skill were sent his way by the clan. However even his skill was still not enough to prevent the tragedy that had stuck, always finding a way to follow Jiraiya.

Karimystic once again expanded his influence of evil, by corrupting several champions of Draconian clan. Most of these champions were disciples of the Red Dragon, which under the influence attacked the clan. Therefore the Elder Council realized that in order to save the clan they would either kill or lock away members of the Red Dragon Disciple.

The darkest hour of the clan was witnessed when the legendary sword of a red dragon disciple called Avatre, bestowed to a noble warrior, only to have his mind and dragon corrupted decimated various individuals in the clan. The extent of evil's grasp was finally realized on that day, and it scared everyone in the clan to the bone. For not only was their champion corrupted, captured and eventually had to be destroyed, his dragon also followed the same fate.

However the sword could not be destroyed for it holds many values and the fact it was nearly unbreakable. The honor and pride of Draconian rested in that sword. For the past glorious days of the sword no longer hold true, for it would corrupt any mind with malicious and evil greed, a gift from Karimystic, hoping to weaken earth's forces.

Nevertheless Jiraiya is called upon to help lock away the legendary sword; many hoped the one called the messiah would come, once again to resurrect the sword back to its glory. Since the tragic event the Draconian Clan had never seen anyone with blood of a red dragon disciple. However report have spurted showing sign of a prophesied one will awaken while carrying the most powerful blood in their clan.

However, will destiny allow this hero to abolish this creature or die in pain withering once again stating that there is no hope? Will fate be on his side to allow him to fulfill his destiny, or will he fall into evil's grasp?

Yet there are other various evils in the world, constantly hoping to take all that is good out, and will this lone savior have the courage to stand as a beacon of hope?

Will this lone warrior process the strength, courage, and heart needed to become the blade to defeat evil. Will this lone fighter be able to withstand everything destiny, fate, and time will throw at him, and will he stand victorious?

Jiraiya once again can be found in his solitude recollecting his past years, and what may come. The appearance of the three Elder Council ended his peace, but realized it must be urgent if they came looking for him.

"You are requested by the seer, please promptly make your presence there", as the command were issued by Elder Council.

With an inaudible expiration from Jiraiya, he quickly, silently and urgently reached the destination where his presence is required.

"Seer you have asked for me?" emitted in a quiet flat tone devoid of any emotion.

"Ah yes…I need you to look at this", as the seer can clearly see Jiraiya overwhelmed by the surrounding chaos. However she beckoned Jiraiya to look into the well where a puddle of water showed images dancing upon it.

Evil found various ways to enter into the hearts of individuals, such as the mother that just came out of the flower shop, when she noticed that her darling child had started playing with a little blond boy. Normally the mother would not mind and let her child play; however with malice still in her heart, she was horrified when she realized which boy she was playing with. The mother of the child hastily pulled her child away from Naruto. Enraged that her child was engaged in a conversation with Naruto, she begins to drag the child away giving an icy full of malice glare towards Naruto, the glare that always burns a hole in his heart.

"Promise you will have nothing to do with that boy." leaving the little Naruto confused silently searching as to what he had done wrong.

"But why mommy?" the child obviously enjoyed playing with Naruto, and can't seem what is so bad about Naruto.

"I know what best for you and I am telling you alright! You have no idea how bad he is. Just promise me and stay away from him. That…that boy is evil and if you go near that boy then I will have nothing to do with you!" The child is obviously horrified of leaving her mother, and quickly responded, "No mommy, don't say that I won't go near that boy and...and...I will not talk with him. But I still don't understand why. Mommy what is so bad about him?", as Naruto is sadden to see tears in the child's eye.

"Because I said so, now come along we have better things to do then talk about some malevolence boy" as the furious mother takes the child far away from Naruto.

The mother and the child walked away from Uzumaki Naruto, leaving him all alone. Dumbfound Naruto looks at them walking away and can not help feel like he had been discarded. Seeing Naruto can do nothing more about it, he slowly walks through the street, he can hear various windows being closed. He can hear the doors behind locked. He can see children being brought inside. He can see all of this but can not help wander why they fear him like some violent storm is approaching. He can hear the whispers behind the doors probably talking about him. Naruto can feel the stares of the village adults on him as he keeps on walking though the street.

"Seer may I ask you why I am seeing this", as Jiraiya is quite confused at why he may be brought in to witness the treatment of Naruto.

"This boy will greatly influence the future. However I am not confident he will have the mental toughness required to survive the year. I believe soon, Karimystic will once again come to corrupt this young mind. This boy had seen much suffering and hatred, which even surprised me as well because he was able to withstand most of it till now. However trying to block water from flowing is very hard, and I fear he may do something we may all regret. And that is where you will be stepping in. I have entrusted you in a highly classified important mission requiring you to follow his foot step becoming his guardian but never letting your presence felt yet. Jiraiya, I must make this absolutely clear, this boy must survive, and that includes his mind from being corrupted by Karimystic. If he succumbs to his violent raging hatred towards the village, any hope for a bright future may be lost."

"How so seer…I don't know how one boy can affect the future as this one", nevertheless Jiraiya's own doubt and uncertainties creped into his mind upon noticing the grim face of the seer hoping there will be something good happening soon.

"Maybe a glimpse of the future would give you an idea what to expect" and with a wave of hand the images began to change.

They witness Naruto standing on top of a dismantled pile of bodies, sword dripping with blood of his victim. What was even more disgusting was the fact the pile consisted of corpse of humans with various parts missing. Naruto eyes were no longer blue, but an empty black, just daring anybody to come, but with hold hatred and confidence to kill. He did not carried an innocent smile for a more sinister smile existed which portrayed his hunger for blood. His blond hair had transformed into a muddy dark red color, where blood can be seen still lingering. His whole outfit consisted of entirely of black, giving him the ghostly appearance. In the background the eyes of Karimystic can be seen smirking at all those who had died by the hands of Naruto. The future did not look bright indeed.

"I see seer… sorry for my ignorance, I shall leave at once", as the image he saw haunted him forever in his dream.

Many believed sacrifices are merely giving up their lives to protect their precious. The pain from death is most likely shortly lived, and soon forgotten. Yet would a person have the courage to live with their sacrifice all though their lives? Would they be able to continued living where the chance of relief from the pain is no where in sight?

Evil found many ways to defeat all that is good, for example spreading despair and hatred into the mind of the individual making life a gloomy universe all in turn feeding Karimystic with power. Hatred, greed, and jealousy produce negative auras, the main source of fuel to power Karimystic twisted plans to reign supreme.

Naruto had never known what love and companionship is, since the only thing he had felt is loneliness and hatred from his village. Many adults always gave Naruto an icy glare every time they had eye contact. Oblivious to the fact that they are pushing Naruto to the limit where only time can tell what might erupt. With each insult, each vicious prank, and with each icy glare; Naruto builds a wall desperately trying to isolate himself from the pain. The only thing that resulted was an individual who cease to show any happy emotion.

Sadness had forced once Naruto's bright glittering eyes to become a dull blue. Naruto's hair once bright yellow had somehow become a light grayish yellow color. There is never a smile present on Naruto's face, for a depressed frown had replaced it. Naruto has become paranoid just being in close proximity of another individual that his hand will start to shake.

If a stranger were to come to village with no knowledge of the tragic past of the boy, they would be shocked to the core. Pity would build inside them once they look into the eyes of the innocent boy. Even though the boy carried the innocence of life, his wardrobe immediately portrays the misery of his life.

A boy at a young age without any parental figure, Naruto didn't get the chance to be taught the proper way to treat their wardrobe. However Naruto is not an ordinary boy, therefore it surprised many that even at a young age, Naruto was able to cope with loneliness and live efficiently.

Stumbling upon a beaten down coat during his years, Naruto became quite attached to the dull black trench coat which he never leaved without. Underneath Naruto wore a light colored orange shirt, symbolizing that Naruto had lost his spark of childhood. Instead his eyes burn with determination yet holding a softer gaze of maturity infused during his upbringing of endless day of loneness. To match his trench coat, Naruto had accompanied his outfit with black pants, while hoisting black gloves, which have been cut at the edge exposing his fingertip but allowed him to grip better. The warmth, length and the ability to hide many things in the various pocket made Naruto attached to the one thing that brings him warmth. Not particularly trilled about his bright blond hair, Naruto had made a dark red bandana which he had place on his head, effectively hiding his hair. During his childhood, he felt if he had dressed more like a gangster than maybe he would invisible to the glares as he saw first hand how they were avoided. Wanting anything to hide his true feelings, Naruto also included a pair of black sunglasses to hide his bright blue eyes, as well has having his right ear having pierced and hoisted an earring.

Most normal children in Hidden Leaf Village were able to feel the love of their parents, made friends and have never felt the sting of loneliness. Of course none of them had a powerful demon strong enough to destroy a single mountain in one flick of its tail. For all of Naruto's life, he had always been hated, taunted and humiliated by the citizen of the village. The Third Hokage had hoped that the next generation would accept Naruto much better; however habits seem to find a way to rub off.

Naruto slowly walking though the street hoping he would make friends. After seeing everyone run away from Naruto slowly heads for his home.

"Sigh…I guess the chance of me having one friend is still not possible. But why do I have to be the one to feel loneliness. Why did my parents have to leave me? Am I that bad? Am I really that horrible that my parents did not want me either? Everyone hates me or doesn't want to be near me. Don't they see that I am just a little child, don't they see that I have feeling too. Why don't they see that I am dying here, but no they just run away like I don't matter at all? I HATE YOU ALL! DO YOU HEAR ME I HATE YOU ALL" as the young distressed Naruto yells loudly into the night.

Naruto falls down onto the ground crying uncontrollably. Some of the adults look out to see who is crying, realized its Naruto they ignored him and go on with their life.

With tears flowing down his cheeks and shaking hard, Naruto realized that he is still alone, "I…I am really hated… hated here…they could care less that a child is out in the street crying. Is my life really that insignificant?" as all the pent up emotions from previous years breaks through the damn Naruto has built around him. For once Naruto dropped his mask, for once Naruto stop trying to act adult; for once Naruto let his feeling release.

Jiraiya's heart is in turmoil as he sees the boy succumb to loneliness, crying endlessly. Listening to the heart wrenching wail from the young boy, Jiraiya decided to go comfort the boy, however another individual steps up. When Jiraiya recognized who it is, he returned back into the shadow to further observe what will happen.

"Why do they hate me, I never did or said anything to them. I was just trying to be friendly. I do not want to be alone. I hate being alone. Maybe…maybe I should just leave from here, nobody…nobody would miss me anyways...I…I hate everyone, I hate this village, and I hate my fate," as Naruto laid on the ground sobbing uncontrollably as he lets tears stream down his cheeks.

Naruto did not see the Third Hokage that came behind him and as the leader of the village, noticed the boy on the floor crying. "Fate can be so cruel; nobody knows the burden this boy carries. His fate can be deemed just as cruel as being sentence to death. In my eyes Naruto you are already a great hero just as the Yondaime believed you would be. Don't worry Yondaime, I will make him stronger."

"Naruto! Look at me!" Naruto just ignored the person calling his name and stared at the ground as tears continued to fall to the ground uninterrupted.

"Why bother… aren't you going to do something like calling names or plan some stupid trick on me? Its okay I am used to it now!" Naruto doesn't bother to stand but once again find the ground very interesting as he continued to stare at it.

"And why would I do something like that?" Naruto now surprised looked up and finally noticed the Third Hokage.

"Because that's what happens whenever I try to be friendly or talk with another person" "It is okay I am used to it, I will not let them hurt me anymore I will not let myself become too attached to these people. Why bother anyway, they are just going to run away. I will make myself stronger; I will not let myself cry. I will not let them see I am hurt. That is one thing they will never see from me, my weakness!"

Naruto wiped away his tears and stand up to face the Third Hokage, looking directly into his eyes with a newfound determination in his eyes.

"No Naruto I would never do something like that, to whom I believe is the strongest child in Hidden Leaf Village."

"What! What is he talking about? Doesn't matter to me, I will find a way to leave this place!"

"Doesn't matter what you say Hokage-sama! Since you are the only person who has taken the time and effort to come see why I am crying, I will let you know a little secret. I will be leaving this horrible place."

"I cannot bear this misery any longer; I can not stand living here anymore. There is nothing but hate and malice in the air towards me," as rage began to bottle up in Naruto, leaving his hand shaking, ready at that moment to run away. "I hate them all!" The hatred he felt fueled his body to force blue charka to swirl around Naruto.

"Interesting, even at such a young age this boy has significant amount of charka focusing inside him. I can only imagine the potential he will be able to go, and why the seer asked me to guard him," As the Jiraiya continued to further observed the boy and made notes for future reference.

"Hrm...So Naruto at this state of breakdown, I guess I cannot let him leave but what can I say to help him," as the Third Hokage struggled to finds words to console the young boy failing to noticed the presence of Jiraiya who is efficiently hiding in the shadows.

"Naruto I know this doesn't feel like home but your parent thought so otherwise since they sacrificed their lives to protect this very village, which they called their home."

'"What? My…my parents died protecting this village? Why would they do that?"

"I bet you are thinking why your parents did that? Well they loved this village and protected all those living here" If Naruto would have looked; he would have noticed the tears forming in the Third Hokage. ''Yes they sacrificed their lives in order to save this village but it is you Naruto who sacrificed the most, in order to protect all villages. For you, Naruto, you will never have a chance to live a normal life, but it is your destiny to do great things'

"Naruto what do you want in life? What do you desire in life?" asked the Third Hokage.

"Me? I want to be recognized by become stronger so they won't have the chance to see my weaknesses," as Naruto quickly responded, "I want people to recognize me and I don't want to be some ghost walking around. I want them to look at me as someone who can be their equal. I don't want to be look down upon. I…I don't want to be alone. I want to be with people who can be with me and talk about life," leaving the boy shaking at the different layers of emotion that are raging inside him.

"How can you do that? Well since I am Hokage I can make people do things they might not like doing" An idea popped into his mind as Naruto realized, "everyone obeys the Hokage's command and is recognized not as just a person but the strongest shinobi in the village!"

"Hokage-Sama I wish to become stronger and become a Hokage so I can be recognized for my strength"

The Third Hokage smiled at the statement from the young boy, "Good he still has a great spirit. Maybe he can follow his father Yondaime footsteps, since he was one of the greatest ninja to ever live. Yet forgive me Yondaime but I will have to tell him of the burden he carries. Yes Naruto you have to become stronger and I will be damned if I don't make you stronger!"

"Seer I don't know why you pick me or this boy, but it looks like this boy will make my mission interesting' as Jiraiya left his hiding in order to send a report of his findings to the seer.

"Good, then come with me, I will tell you a secret about yourself, I have some special training to make you stronger and lets go wash up your face from all those tears." For the first time Naruto looked up and a small smile sneaked up on Naruto's face once breaking any thought that this is still indeed a young innocent child. As Naruto followed the only person who as cared for him so far, determined not to fail him, "I will not let your faith in me go in vain Hokage-Sama! I promise you that anyone who crosses my line will not live to see another day."

Sometimes in the middle of the night, when not a creature is stirring a cry can be heard. With just the moonlight shadow casting its light on the village, a certain boy will be turning in his bed. A certain boy whom nobody cared about is tossing in turmoil, but all that agony is caused by something else.

The boy noticed the blurring image of a red nine-tailed fox crying out in agony. Crying as the demon is suffering, having no where to go to ease his suffering. But it's looking for something, something it's been searching for, something it believed it had found in the Hidden Leaf Village. Something it was heading towards and desperately wanted but only to be sealed away. A place where the creature believed he found what he was searching for, something precious, something called love.

When the Great Nine Tail Demon Fox appeared nobody questioned why and from where the demon had appeared. No one wonder what it may be looking for or where its destination was. No one wondered if the demon was afraid or not. Well of course nobody would question that, since fear had overridden all human logic. It is fear that caused hatred; hatred can be turned into destruction. Fear is a tool which Karimystic liked to infuse over his opponents.

Only Naruto was beginning to see what might have happened as he gets glimpse of it in his dreams. Naruto see a creature wailing and searching for the love it believed was lost. Looking for his true love Anaish whom he thought was dead because he had witnessed the death right in front of his eyes. However he heard the calling, no the yearning of his beloved in Hidden Leaf Village, only to be stop before reaching his destination and sealed away. That is all Naruto witnessed before his is woken up sweating and panting.

'I… (pant)… wonder what… (pant) …happened. I wish I could see more of the dream and understand it. Was that demon also hated, or was it my imagination that the demon actually felt love towards something? Oh I wish I knew the answer. I wish I felt the care and tenderness of another person. No I only feel hatred here. I must remind myself that I will never feel love here in this village. I must not expect such a thing. Hoping for something good to happen to me, will only lead to disappointment. Sigh…why bother.'

Naruto lay down once again and tried to go back to sleep. Naruto had discovered about the nine tailed red fox creature inside him as the Demon called Kyuubi which had been sealed inside him. After being told by the Third Hokage, what surprised Naruto the most was that there was more sorrow and suffering he felt within the Demon.

"Wait I must not say it is a demon, I must called it a creature since it showed emotion other than hatred and anger," yet Naruto is still puzzled at why this creature had other feelings.

Was the creature feeling guilt, regret, loneliness, hatred or anger? Nevertheless Naruto only felt the heavy sadness when the creature was crying out for help. The same sadness he felt every time he stepped outside to face the village. The same cry for help Naruto gave toward the village but only received hatred slammed back at him.

Naruto thought he had the worst life possible but realized that is not true. He noticed many children are even more unlucky than him. One child which he felt immense pity towards was Hyuga Hinata. Every time Naruto watched her, he realized that no mater what the girl did, the father was always displeased with her. To Naruto that made him feel pity and sadness towards the girl. Naruto knew very well how being rejected felt like. He had always wished to go up to the girl to say some word of encouragement, but thought otherwise. "Why should I bother…how is this girl going to different from other? Why did he felt there was something in her that made him feel like he can talk to her without any fear? Why did he feel like she meant something to him?"

Before Naruto could ponder any longer, the fear of rejection snapped back into his brain and he decided to leave her alone.

He realized that there are many people who are also suffering, sadden by their problems, and have burden to carry. He never knew that his burden seem so small compared to all the problems in the world.

Naruto promised himself then that he will become stronger and carry the burden of the world. Only he should feel sadness and loneliness while everyone could live peacefully. Only he could protect the village even though the village pretty much hated him, but it was the promised he made to himself. Naruto felt that his existence in this world was to carry the all the burden of the world. That thought made Naruto a little happier since he felt the world had found something they need out of him. Something he could do to prove that he existed, something he can do to be acknowledged.

Naruto's life and perceptive on life changed after meeting with the Third Hokage, and then being told of the seal inside of him which is the home of the creature. Never before has Naruto felt acceptance or care as the Third Hokage showed at that moment. Naruto promised himself to always try hard to overcome any obstacle so that he can look at his guardian. Look at the guardian and know that he can surpass anything to make the Third Hokage proud of him. Naruto can still remember the conversation he had with the Third Hokage.

"Naruto, I have to tell you of a secret of your body, but you must be strong to bear the truth."

Naruto stood before the Hokage with his arms folded behind his back and sternly looked at the Third Hokage. The third Hokage glanced at Naruto and seen the rapid growth of maturity. Even at the tender age of 10, Naruto's isolated life forced Naruto mental apathy to mature to a young level Chuunin. In fact the only thing Naruto has seen in his life is sadness and hatred, never felt the enjoyment of life.

"Yes go ahead Hokage-Same, I am ready to listen", as Naruto gave the Third Hokage his absolute attention.

"Sigh…Naruto's posture is reserved and cautious as he doesn't trust anybody fearing they might hurt him. I am sorry Naruto but you will know the reason now. I just hope you have the courage to keep on living and face the challenges of life."'

"Naruto, your parents made a sacrifice for they love this village very much. During their time about 10 years ago a demon appeared." At the exact moment Naruto felt a muffled cry resounded in his belly and incredible sadness about to overcome him. However Naruto fought the urge as he pushed all the uncomfortable feelings aside and remained focused on what the Third Hokage was saying.

"In order to save the village, you parents have performed a very dangerous and high level Jutsu. The fourth performed the Fuuin Jutsu, which pull the soul of Kyuubi. However the Fourth Hokage did not have the strength to destroy the demon. Instead with the help of your mom, they were to find a suitable contain and seal the demon using the Shiki Fuujin."

"The kamikaze sacrifice caused the container and opponent's soul to be forever bond together. They could not tolerate the destruction of their village; therefore they performed the seal, no matter what the sacrifices were."

Third Hokage continued to look upon Naruto's face, watching for any reaction. Yet the only reaction he saw was the bright light fading in Naruto's eyes. Seeing Naruto has not broken down in despair, the Third Hokage continued.

"They realized they needed a container to which to hold the demon and your chakra was the only matching the demon's chakra. They felt sadness beyond this world as they performed the seal inside their only son to hold the demon for eternity. Well that demon has been sealed inside you Naruto"

Still holding his breath, the Third Hokage looked down upon Naruto; still standing except tears flowed down on his cheeks. "Phew…At least he is not keeping all his sorrow inside of him. Holding all that anger and grief can make a person go insane, yet he is not showing any rage or anger. How reserved had this little Naruto become?"

Many may be wandering how Jiraiya is able to hide his presence from both Naruto as well as to the Hokage. Well neither of them has the help of a dragon or draconian blood cursing though their blood. For Jiraiya he had become a Water Dragon Disciple, whose expertise included espionage and stealth. Even in a raging bonfire, one would still not able to see Jiraiya and his dragon, for they have trained together to leave their presence invisible. However Jiraiya almost lost his control over his stealth when he realized he was guarding the container of Kyuubi.

As quickly realization came, his understanding soon followed as to why this boy was vital for the future. For the power of Kyuubi in wrong hand is not a pleasant thought. However what surprised Jiraiya was the fact that Naruto is still noble, humble as well as carrying a soft heart. If Jiraiya were in his place, he would automatically would hunt for revenge and kill each one painfully. Nevertheless Jiraiya's respect and admiration of the boy quickly grew as he continued to observe.

All Naruto could do then is stared at the Third Hokage and stand there in shock. Shocked at what he heard. The explanation brutally given explained all the hatred and anger he felt from the citizen in the village. Naruto just stand there oblivious to the surrounding, as he could not see nor hear anything at that moment. The Third Hokage looked at Naruto with sadden eyes and worried about what Naruto must be thinking.

"But Naruto you are neither a demon nor will you ever will be, for demons could never feel sorry, sadness or sorrow for others."

At that moment Naruto felt something inside, the most painful and lonely cry of something in agony. Only then did he realize that he was hearing the cry of the creature that he now knows as Kyuubi. Naruto thought he heard something, something like

"Naruto…please help me, I…I…I need to find h……" As any other words were not audible which made Naruto ignored the cry, and once again brought his focus back upon the Third Hokage.

"I see...that is why everyone hates me because I carry a demon. Fine…I will not let myself get destroyed by that. I am very proud of my parents who have given their lives to protect this village. I will become strong and make both my parents proud of me. I will get stronger and then be recognized. Beside I am not the only one who is alone and suffering. I will protect everyone. I will keep my demon inside while I take care of everyone else's demon and suffering!"

At that moment, the Third Hokage saw the light blue eyes of Naruto turn bright crimson red. "I see now, if Kyuubi's chakra and Naruto's chakra were to combine together that will leave a force that will be feared and respected. But I can help get a sudden cold chill just from looking at those eyes."

From that moment on, the Third Hokage saw a considerable change in Naruto. No longer was his shoulder slumping down, his posture is now more rigid and determined. Naruto became more calm, controlled, calculating and caution of his act. But by no means his he weak. Even at the age of only 10, the Third Hokage can sense the chakra level of a young Chuunin even through Naruto has still yet to take the genin exam. The amount of chakra emitting out Naruto made the Hokage realized that Naruto can truly become powerful, a power never before seen, for he felt Naruto will be able to surpass all limitation.

"Incredible he is already that strong even without the chakra of the Kyuubi! With further training Naruto might surpass all levels of Hokage. He will be able to pass you too Yondaime"

The Third Hokage brought Naruto back outside since there was nothing else to talk about. As Naruto stood outside he looked at the world differently. He vowed to himself he will go to the library to learn everything he can of the creature he is carry and learn how he can protect everyone.

"Let see, I will need to learn more of this creature that is living inside me, I just wish I had some way to talk with it. Sigh…oh well first I need to eat and Ramen is the only way to go," as Naruto eagerly ran to the Ramen Stand to eat before trying to figure out anything, but too bad his grumbling stomach didn't allow him to hear a voice.

Kyuubi: "Help me Naruto, I need you, please hear me, please help me find the thing I been searching for, Please help me!" with Jiraiya very carefully following making sure nothing would happen to this boy.


A/N: LIKE OR DISLIKE?

Please tell me, please review, reviews tell me how my story is going. If there is anything you like or dislike please tell. I can only get better by having feedback. Please even if it just one word or sentence, any feedback is great. So please review. Also if it's confusing, stupid or I should change it please let me know.

The Infernal light in Darkness Crimson-Strike