Clearly, Karatachi Gui had a story of his own. Looking at him now, so different from his earlier flashy, somewhat unfathomable self, Hinata blinked.
She turned to glance at Naruto, who was still keeping his promise and watching her.
She seemed to remember how she had once been, and her heart softened. "You really want someone else to acknowledge you, don't you?"
"I... that's..."
"So do I. That's why I can't stop here."
Hinata suddenly gave him a kindly smile. "I'm sorry."
"Fifth Round, Hinata Hyuga wins!"
At Gekko Hayate's announcement, Karatachi Gui slumped to the ground. He did not even cover the wound on his shoulder, simply watching Hinata Hyuga jog over to Naruto with a smile, as though seeking praise.
Naruto readily showered her with praise and patted her head, and the two chatted and laughed.
"Is that why she's so strong...?"
Karatachi Gui looked utterly crushed, but the Medical Unit that came over to give him emergency treatment was surprised—
Why was the injured contestant from the Fifth Round hurt so lightly?
Meanwhile, once the Three-Tails' chakra receded, Gaara, who had been rolling around on the floor nearby, suddenly returned to his expressionless state. He stood up without a word, then asked Temari, who was almost in tears with worry, in mild confusion, "What just happened to me?"
Temari and Baki exchanged looks, unsure what to say.
"You need treatment for a scratch like that? Don't tell me you need me to take you back, too."
Taki Metsu's voice came from behind Karatachi Gui. He had already stepped onto the floor and sneered at Karatachi Gui, who was still sitting on the ground.
"...You certainly can't wait."
Karatachi Gui let out a long sigh and said little else. He stood up and headed back. "I know you're