Naruto - Trafalgar D. Water Law - Chapter 1 - Arriving in Konoha

[Chapter Size: 1500 Words.]
Third Person POV
East Gate, Konoha.
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On the fresh morning in front of Konoha's imposing gate, the incessant movement of visitors echoed amidst the dancing shadows of leaves filtered by the sun. Colorful ninjas hurriedly crossed paths, efficiently greeting each other as they headed towards their missions. Merchants displayed their wares, and a lively mix of vegetation and incense aromas wafted through the air.

Amidst this, a boy appeared in line, wearing a coat that covered his entire body and a large sword on his shoulder. This immediately caught the guards' attention, who looked suspiciously at the boy, who appeared to be around 12 or 13 years old when his turn came.

Trafalgar D. Water Law has a striking presence for someone his age. His black hair falls in unkempt strands over his forehead, partially obscuring a determined and serious gaze. The fair skin highlights the firmness of his expression, revealing a maturity that transcends his youth.

His attire is quite unusual for the climate—a long, dark coat that reaches his ankles, giving him an aura of mystery. The coat is closed up to his neck, with elegant embroidery details and symbols indicating its unique origin. The fabric's texture is smooth to the touch, suggesting a blend of comfort and functionality.

His large sword skillfully rests on his right shoulder, secured by a wide and sturdy strap. The blade gleams with a sharp metallic shine, indicating Law's meticulous care for his weapons. Intricate carvings on the sword's hilt tell stories of past battles, while the sheath bears marks of wear, silent witnesses to his journey.

Law's amber eyes, coupled with his straight posture, exuded confidence as he faced the Chunin. His movements were calculated and efficient, indicating rigorous training under Tsunade's guidance.

The guard, a man with a stern expression, fixed his gaze on the boy, an inquisitive look probing for the truth. The presence of the sword on the young one's shoulder only intensified the questioning. "You! Your name and the reason for your visit to our village," the guard pronounced, his firm voice echoing in the morning.

"My name is Trafalgar D. Water Law." The boy, calm and confident, revealed his name. His amber eyes maintained eye contact with the guard as he raised a paper towards him. The paper, adorned with the Senju clan insignia, exuded an air of authority.

"I am here by the recommendation of Lady Tsunade Senju," Law asserted, his gestures precise as he presented the document. The guard, intrigued, accepted the paper and began examining it meticulously. Tension hung in the air as the man scrutinized every detail, attempting to verify the authenticity of the young man's words.

"Lady Tsunade?" exclaimed the guard, expressing surprise at the mentioned name. He held the paper more firmly, determined to get answers. However, uncertainty lingered in his eyes, revealing a hint of mistrust.

"Night cat." The Chunin guard spoke these words, and it was then that a hidden Anbu intervened. His silent and agile arrival was announced by the subtle sound of his appearance. A dark cat mask covered part of his face, adding an air of mystery to his figure.

The guard addressed the Anbu. "We don't know the authenticity of this information, but clearly, the Hokage can provide clarification."

"I'll take this to the Hokage immediately!" he declared, his voice muffled by the cat mask, and disappeared in the blink of an eye. As the Anbu embarked on his mission, the guard turned his attention back to the young man, his curious eyes seeking more information. "How did you come to know Lady Tsunade?" the guard inquired, his curiosity evident. The wait for the Anbu's return provided a brief interlude, allowing the conversation to unfold.

The boy, Trafalgar D. Water Law, calmly revealed, "She's my teacher." The simplicity of his response was accompanied by a stunned silence.

"You're a student of Tsunade-Sama?" the man asked, his expression a mix of surprise and respect.

"For the past 6 years, yes. I've been her personal student," the boy replied, shedding light on his unique relationship with the respected Tsunade.

"That's incredible..." the man murmured, captivated by the revelation. Before he could express more thoughts, the Anbu returned.

"Let him pass. The message is true, and the Hokage will speak with him personally," announced the Anbu, dispelling any lingering doubts. A quick nod of agreement among the guards sealed the legitimacy of the recommendation.

"Come with me. You're unfamiliar with the village, and I'll take you directly to the Hokage's building," one of the guards informed, showing a friendly disposition to guide the newcomer through the complex paths of the hidden village. Law entered the village gate and followed the man. Along the way, the Chunin didn't hesitate to ask some questions about his training with his sensei, who shared insights into limiting some basic jutsus and training in the field of medicine.

Upon reaching the imposing Hokage Tower, Law bid farewell to the guard and finally entered the leader's office. The atmosphere changed as they crossed the threshold of the door. Despite seeing only the Hokage in the room, Law was aware of the presence of skilled shadows, indicating a meticulous protective network for the leader.

"So, you're Tsunade's student..." the Hokage began, a puff of smoke escaping from the pipe he held.

"That's right, Tsunade-Sensei has been teaching me basic ninjutsu and medicine for the past few years," Law spoke.

"I never imagined she'd have an apprentice while she was away. You must be quite special to catch her attention," Hiruzen commented, analyzing the young man in front of him. "Sensei always praised my talent for the medical field," Law calmly spoke.

"I don't doubt she did, considering your teacher is my former student," he said, sighing a bit before continuing. "And she didn't want to come back to the village with you?"

"Sensei said she really likes the village; she prefers to stay away if possible," Law said in a somewhat subdued tone. It might sound quite arrogant, but Hiruzen, knowing that woman's temperament, knows she would say exactly that.

"I understand," he murmured and spoke again. "Anyway, your situation is quite particular, and I would never let a stranger join as a ninja who didn't graduate in the traditional way from the ninja academy. However, according to Tsunade's letter, you are a resident of the Fire Country and have been under my ex-student's tutelage for more than 6 years, so I grant you permission to take the exam and join a ninja team. You're lucky the ninja academy exam happened yesterday; you'll have a team soon."

"That's good," Law said.

"In the time you came here, I made sure to arrange a temporary apartment for you. You just have to show up at the academy the next day at 8 a.m. Just don't be late," Hiruzen said with seriousness, the weight of responsibility reflected in his words. Law nodded, grateful for the Hokage's consideration.

As soon as he took the address papers, Law left the building, feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation as he headed towards his new temporary home. The sword on his shoulder was a constant presence, a reminder of his journey up to that point.

Hiruzen watched through the window, fixing his gaze on Law as he distanced himself from the building. The Hokage pondered for a moment, reflecting on the new player entering Konoha's ninja scene, his thoughtful expression revealing an intrinsic interest.

"Your student, Tsunade? I hope he's everything you put in that letter, as he might be perfect to be placed in that team I've been waiting all day to see which last male member can fit into it..." Hiruzen murmured to himself, shifting his gaze to the paper in his hands.

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Dear Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to recommend my student, Trafalgar D. Water Law, as a participant in the ninja admission exams in Konoha.

Despite his young age, Law has demonstrated remarkable skill in ninjutsu and medicine during the past 6 years under my tutelage. His dedication to studies and training is noteworthy, and his ability to assimilate new knowledge is exceptional.

Law is a determined and reliable young man with exemplary work ethic. Despite his age, he possesses a maturity that surpasses his years. His leadership skills and willingness to help others have been evident in various situations.

I believe Law's presence will be a valuable addition to the village of Konoha. He brings not only exceptional skills but also an ethic and determination worthy of a true ninja.

I appreciate in advance your consideration of my recommendation and for offering Law the opportunity to participate in the admission exams.

Sincerely,

Tsunade.