There was little suspense about the outcome of this match.
Even though Kakashi Hatake gave it everything he had, fighting to the bitter end with his Sharingan and wealth of combat experience, Jiraiya still had the last laugh.
"Whew..." Kakashi panted softly, bracing a hand against the ground, his eyes filled with helplessness and frustration.
But Kakashi quickly regained his composure and accepted the reality.
"Is Lord Jiraiya really that strong?"
In the stands, Rock Lee's eyes widened, his gaze filled with both admiration and anxiety.
The second round was about to begin, and he knew his own battle would soon arrive.
"Lee, stay calm. Stay calm."
Beside him, Might Guy stepped over, his expression serious yet gentle.
He gave Rock Lee's shoulder a firm pat, his eyes burning like torches. "Believe in yourself. Neji is strong, but you're no pushover either."
Rock Lee froze for a moment.
Might Guy's encouragement rekindled the flame in his chest that his nerves had nearly smothered.
He clenched his fist, his eyes blazing.
"Yes! Teacher Guy!! Burn, my youth!!!"
Rock Lee's voice instantly energized everyone around him, his irrepressible passion sweeping through the stands.
Some of his friends covered their ears in exasperation, their expressions saying, "Here we go again," yet they could not help being swept up in his enthusiasm.
The second match finally began.
This time, it was Neji Hyuga against Rock Lee.
"Lee! You can do it!"
"Don't lose to Neji!"
In the stands, almost all of the Konoha 12 cheered for Rock Lee.
It was not because they were playing favorites, but because Neji stood in the opposing camp, some distance from their seats.
Only Tenten offered a quiet word of encouragement.
"Neji, good luck."
With his head lowered beneath an understated black baseball cap, Neji merely nodded.