Lee wrapped his arms about his middle hoping to hold back some of his more emotional responses to this dark moment while in the presence of the Hokage. He could lose it in front of Gai and his parents, but anyone else and it felt like he was being judged.

"Because... when I do the same as I have been up to this point I see less and less progress." Indeed, his training was still as intense as ever but his results were beginning to plateau.

"And, and if I try to push myself even further than I already do, this happens." Rock Lee, injured. Stuck in a hospital bed. Scolded for trying and told he wasn't good enough.