Chapter 124: The Main Character
As Rock Lee returned to his group, the crowd's cheers continued. His friends showered him with enthusiastic congratulations.
Neji, his closest rival and teammate, stepped forward with a look of genuine admiration in his eyes. His words struck Lee like no other: "That was an incredible performance."
"Neji... you really think so?!" Lee asked with a shaky voice.
Tears threatened to spill from his eyes as he took in the compliment. It was a moment he had longed for, knowing that rivaling Neji fueled his determination to improve. In their moment as competitors, this was the first time he felt acknowledged for his growth through their challenges.
When Arthur saw this, he remembered why this was. Lee never fought Gaara in the Chūnin Exams. Because of that, the former was never able to activate the Eight Gates and shock Neji.
"Of course," Neji confirmed, crossing his arms in a typically composed manner. "You've improved a lot since the last time we fought. I'm impressed."
Lee couldn't hold back his emotions any longer and broke into a wide smile. He felt buoyed by his teammate's sincere words. It was almost too much for him, and he blinked rapidly to fight back the tears.
In that heartfelt moment, Jada became just as happy. The players had a goal, and it was to correct the faults within this world. Seeing these two genuinely care for one another was a sign things were headed her direction.
William draped an arm around Neji's shoulders and laughed heartily, saying, "Look at you, getting all sentimental! Who knew the great Neji from the Hyūga clan would actually give compliments?"
His teasing tone lightened the atmosphere.
"Will!" Margaret scolded. Her tone was mock-serious as she placed her hands on her hips, but there was laughter in her eyes. "Stop ruining this touching moment, ya idiot!"