After hearing Genma Shiranui's recommendation, the Third, Sarutobi Hiruzen, showed little reaction. He had sat in the Hokage's seat for many years and experienced too much to be easily surprised.
The two women beside him were happy for Kamizuki when they heard Genma's recommendation, and even a little envious.
But Kamizuki, the person being recommended, had no idea what was going through his head. He was so lost in thought that he didn't even notice what was happening around him.
Mai Shiranui couldn't take it anymore and gently nudged Kamizuki. Only then did he snap out of it, looking at her with an expression that seemed to ask, "What are you doing?"
Mai was speechless. Everyone was making such a sincere case for him, and he was spacing out.
She merely rolled her lovely eyes at him, signaling that he should pay attention to what the Third was about to say.
After hearing Genma's recommendation, Sarutobi Hiruzen thought it over before speaking.
"Hmm... How about this? You can all go back for now. First, write me a detailed report about this mission. After I've read it, I'll decide whether to approve Hyuga Kamizuki's promotion."
Since the Third had put it that way, Genma had no objections. He led his three subordinates in respectfully bowing to the Third, then left.
After they walked out of the Hokage Building, Genma left Kamizuki to write the mission report and dismissed the team, sending everyone home to rest.
Once the team had dispersed, Kamizuki glanced again at Mai, who was walking off into the distance with her arm linked through Genma's, chatting with him. Something about her seemed off, but he couldn't figure out what it was.
Since he couldn't work it out, Kamizuki didn't bother dwelling on it. He shook his muddled thoughts