Chapter 2: Sarutobi Hiruzen's Letter of Recommendation

At night, inside the Hokage's office.

"Third-generation master, here is Liu Yun's information."

"Thank you for your efforts."

Sarutobi Hiruzen examined Liu Yun's dossier thoughtfully.

"Clean background. Parents lost in the Three Ninja World Wars, living alone with occasional contact with Iruka. A bit withdrawn," he mused aloud, tapping his chin. "But if Shisui sees potential in him, he may not be as ordinary as he appears."

The village seemed tranquil, yet beneath the surface simmered discontent among the Uchiha clan, still reeling from the aftermath of the Nine-tailed Rebellion and Minato's death.

"He's of age to enter the academy," Sarutobi murmured, deciding to enlist Iruka's help in delivering the news to Liu Yun. The Third Hokage had enough on his plate with village affairs and ninja world politics, hoping for a continuation of the fragile peace.

"I pray this peace lasts a while longer," Sarutobi sighed, returning to his duties.

The following day at noon, Liu Yun woke refreshed, his arms slightly swollen but undeterred in his training.

His spirit renewed, Liu Yun reflected on his latest spiritual battle with Hawkeye. Though he couldn't best the youthful swordsman, the skirmish imparted invaluable experience.

[Character template: Joracol Mihawk]

[Character unlocking progress: 1.2%]

"The progress from that fight was substantial," Liu Yun noted, packing up for another day of rigorous practice.

Stepping outside, Liu Yun encountered a familiar face.

"Iruka-sensei!" he greeted, surprised.

"Why are you here?"

"I've come to see you," Iruka smiled warmly. "Let me treat you to ramen. You must be hungry."

Iruka, one of Liu Yun's few confidants, treated him like a son despite his reserved nature.

Ichiraku Ramen—a fixture known to all Naruto fans—welcomed them. Liu Yun observed the elderly proprietor with curiosity.

"This is Otsutsuki Ichiraku," Iruka introduced.

Uncle Ichiraku, noticing Liu Yun's gaze, couldn't help but chuckle inwardly.

"Why are you staring at me like that, young man?" he teased.

"Eat up, Liu Yun," Iruka urged, his kindness thawing even Liu Yun's guarded heart.

Iruka's warmth was akin to sunshine, a comforting presence that had prevented Liu Yun from straying into darker paths, like Naruto once did with the Forbidden Scroll.

After the meal, Liu Yun spoke frankly, "Iruka-sensei, if you have something to say, just tell me."

Iruka chuckled, caught off guard. "You're right, nothing gets past you."

Knowing Liu Yun for half a year revealed a mature mind beyond his years, shaped by early loss and solitude.

"Liu Yun, are you interested in attending the Ninja School?" Iruka broached.

Liu Yun hesitated, surprised by the suggestion in Konoha's 56th year.

"Isn't this when the Twelve Little Strongmen enter?"

Iruka handed him a recommendation letter from the Third Hokage.

Even Iruka and Uncle Ichiraku were taken aback by this unexpected attention from the Hokage.

After accepting the letter, Liu Yun excused himself to resume his training without further delay. His time was precious, focused solely on becoming stronger.

Entering his spiritual space, Liu Yun faced Hawkeye once more, their swords clashing in a dance of steel and determination.

"Ding Ding Ding!"

Hours later, drained and sun-baked, Liu Yun emerged, muscles trembling.

[Character Template: Joracol Mihawk]

[Character Unlock Progress: 1.4%]

"Every increase matters," Liu Yun acknowledged, absorbing the combat lessons and swordsmanship insights gained.

Besides fighting, Liu Yun prioritized physical conditioning—push-ups, sit-ups, and forest runs—to build strength.

By afternoon's end, he refined chakra and honed his shuriken accuracy, the day slipping away unnoticed until dusk settled over the village.