"G... Gaara!"
The atmosphere inside Konoha Village's prison was grim. Although Orochimaru was the true mastermind, there was no disputing that the Sand Village had helped launch the attack.
After Naruto rescued Temari and Kankuro from the snake venom and healed them, they were sent back here to be held temporarily. Given their current status, Konoha would never have offered them hospital beds had they not been on the brink of death. Fortunately, both had largely recovered.
When a Konoha ninja opened the cell door, Temari immediately rushed forward. She carefully looked her younger brother over. His eyes were red and swollen, undried tears still marked his face, and his voice was a little choked, but there were no obvious wounds on his body. Only then did her heart finally settle, and she let out a long breath of relief.
Standing behind her, Kankuro shared her concern, but his face showed even more shock and disbelief.
Was this Gaara? Gaara... could actually cry? The younger brother before him looked vulnerable, but no longer cold. He stood in stark contrast to the murderous demon in Kankuro's memory, leaving him momentarily dazed.
"Thank you so much! Thank you... thank you so much for bringing Gaara back..." Temari abruptly bowed deeply to Naruto, her voice filled with sincere gratitude. But when she tried to speak, she found herself unsure how to address this powerful yet very young blond boy, leaving her wording a little stiff.
"It's... it's all right..." Naruto waved a hand and forced a smile, but it looked stiff and unnatural.
This was not because of Temari's gratitude. Rather, it was because of the cold, clear notification that had sounded in his mind not long before, and the startling message that came with it.
``` [Ding! Congratulations, host: your bond with