Dancing Leaf, Squirming Sand
As and 's match has come to an end, people comment on Shikamaru's strategy and skill. mentions he has the most important trait of a Chunin, knowing when to retreat instead of endangering himself in fear of hurting his own pride. With and 's match needing to start, the sets a time limit for Sasuke to arrive. and walk through the gates, although still injured, he’s determined to watch the remaining match. Sasuke arrives at the last second with . greets him, and reassures Sasuke that he won against . Meanwhile, Gaara kills a pair of ninja who are attempting to rig the match on his way to enter the arena. This is witnessed by Naruto and Shikamaru, who are now worried for Sasuke’s life. The match commences.

