After hearing Zhou Cheng's story, Gaara and Jiraiya both fell silent.
Gaara especially.
He knew better than anyone what loneliness felt like.
Even though he was not an only child, he was still lonely.
As a jinchūriki, he barely had any time to see his family.
Even the uncle who loved him most, the only family he had, had betrayed him and ultimately died by his hand.
Everyone in the village saw him as a monster. No one wanted to be his friend.
Even his own brother and sister felt more fear than affection toward him.
Gaara looked at Zhou Cheng. Did he become this strong to protect the people he cherished?
Was it because of the bonds and love between companions?
I... I would do it too!
"Zhou Cheng, thank you. I understand now!"
Gaara's expression relaxed, no longer as icy as before.
Before, he had been an asura who lived only for himself.
Now, he was determined to change.
After witnessing Zhou Cheng's strength, Gaara wanted to experience friendship and familial love too.
The faces of his brother and sister surfaced in his mind.
He remembered the care and affection they showed him in everyday life.
For the first time, warmth rose in his heart.
Seeing the change in Gaara's eyes and demeanor, Zhou Cheng knew he had changed.
From a bloodthirsty asura who lived for himself alone.
He had grown into Sunagakure's strongest shield and protector.
"Give me your hand!"
Zhou Cheng smiled and held out his hand to Gaara, intending to heal his broken hand.
Seeing the sincere kindness in Zhou Cheng's eyes, Gaara smiled too.
His first smile was a little awkward.
Had he already accepted me as a friend? Was this what friendship felt like?
It felt so good!
Gaara raised his hand and