Naruto (2002)
TV Show

Welcome to the Village Hidden in the Leaves, where deadly serious Ninja roam the landscape and the seriously mischievous Naruto Uzumaki causes trouble everywhere he goes. But when he steals the ancient scroll of sealing, he unleashes a rare power rarely seen in a 12-year-old boy!

Naruto finally graduates from the Ninja Academy and claims to know it all. Well, at least that what he tells Konohamaru, the Village elder's pint-size grandson. Much to the dismay of Ebisu, Konohamaru's teacher and mentor, Naruto teaches him the hormonally lethal "Sexy Jutsu!"

Naruto is preparing himself for the Genin orientation. It's all a happy story until Sensei picks a team for all the ninjas. Naruto was teamed up with his crush, Sakura, and his worst enemy, Sasuke. Can Naruto learn to work together with two people whom despise him?

Naruto finally meets his new sensei. His name is Kakashi Hatake. He tells the group that before they could become Genin, they will have to pass his survival test. The problem is, the test has a 66% chance of failure, and if they fail they'll be sent back to the academy. To make matters even worse, one of them will fail no matter what. Can the three pass Kakashi's test?

Time is running out for Naruto and his group. With Sasuke the only one left, he tries to succeed where the others failed. Will they be able to get the bells before time runs out?

Tired of doing lame missions, Naruto asks the Hokage to give them something challenging. The Hokage caves and gives them a C-rank mission. They will be bodyguards for a bridge builder. It appears to be a simple mission, until the group is attacked by something more than common thugs...other ninja!

Team Kakashi and Tazuna are on their way to his home. On their way they run across a ninja named Zabuza Momochi. Kakashi finally the Sharingan, or Mirror-Wheel Eye, and they start to fight. Is the Sharingan enough to defeat Zabuza? Or is Team Kakashi's first mission over already?

With Kakashi captured, Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura must defend against Zabuza's attacks. Naruto becomes scared and wants to flee, but he soon remembers his promise he swore on pain. He has no other choice but to fight, so they can save Kakashi and keep Tazuna alive. Naruto realizes that he must work together with Sasuke to save Kakashi. Will the combined effort of the two allow them to free Kakashi and defeat Zabuza?

With Kakashi free, the fight between him and Zabuza resumes. Kakashi decides to show Zabuza what the Sharingan is really capable of. Can Kakashi's Sharingan defeat Zabuza? And who is the mysterious person watching the fight?

With Zabuza gone things are now settling and Tazuna can go and biuld the bridge without fear. Or so everyone thinks. Kakashi believes something is wrong with Zabuza's death and teaches Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke a way to train so they could better use their chakra. Is Zabuza really dead?

While Naruto and Sasuke train, Sakura watches over Tazuna. During a nice dinner, Sakura notices a man's face torn from a picture. The man's name was Kaiza, and he was what the country called...a "hero". What happened to cause Inari so much pain?

Naruto has a dangerous encounter with Haku in the forest, but is Haku there to cause trouble? Naruto and Sasuke better complete their training, as Zabuza is alive and has returned for round 2. Will Kakashi, Sasuke, and Sakura be able to defeat the Demon of the Mist? And, can Naruto arrive in time to help out?

Round two with Zabuza has started, but this time...Zabuza has Haku fighting along side him. Haku and Sasuke go at it with Sasuke falling behind until he manages to get a kick in. Meanwhile Naruto deals with some of Gato's henchmen. Back at the bridge Haku uses his secret jutsu, Demonic Ice Mirrors. What does this jutsu hold in store for Sasuke? Will Naruto make it to the bridge in time and save Tsunami and Inari as well?

Naruto finally joins the battle on the bridge. But when Naruto stupidly gets caught in the middle of Haku's jutsu as well, he and Sasuke must work together to escape. Kakashi is unable to help them, as he must deal with Zabuza to protect Sakura and Tazuna. How will the two escape from the ice mirrors without any help?

Naruto and Sasuke continue to fight Haku and are getting beaten bad. After having Naruto try and escape a few times, Sasuke begins to be able to trace Haku's movements. Meanwhile, outside Kakashi and Zabuza begin their fight. Kakashi shows his Sharingan again, but Zabuza tries to remove it from Kakashi's head. He fails, but tells Kakashi he has figured out the Sharingan and dissappears in the mist. Can Naruto and Sasuke escape from Haku's jutsu? What plan does Zabuza have to defeat the Sharingan?

Naruto and Sasuke continue their rigorous battle against Haku. When Naruto can't continue any longer, the power of the Sharingan awakens inside of Sasuke, and the tables turn. When Haku targets a vulneable Naruto, Sasuke risks everything to save him. Seeing his friend lie before him, a powerful force awakens inside Naruto, and fiery red chakra begins to pour out. Has Kyubi been set free from Naruto's body? And once released, can anyone stop him?

Naruto takes out his rage with Kyubi's chakra for killing his rival/friend Sasuke on Haku, and he doesn't stand a chance. However, just before the finishing blow he can't hit him. Naruto realizes that Haku is the boy he met back at the forest. Haku tells Naruto the story of his past how he was hated because of his power, and asks for Naruto to do one favor for him to kill him. Since he took away his dreams, he wants Naruto to kill him. Will Naruto do the one thing he could never do kill another person and do as Haku wishes?

Kakashi prepares to stop Zabuza once and for all, but Haku sacrifices his own life to spare Zabuza. Now Zabuza is ready for another round, only Kakashi isn't playing around this time. Failing miserably, Zabuza is confronted by his employer, who has decided to take matters into his own hands.

Zabuza is no longer Kakashi's enemy, and thanks to a little speech by Naruto about how ninja are, Zabuza takes on Gato's men single handedly. The Demon of the Hidden Mist takes his vengeance on Gato and all of those dumb enough to follow him, and apologizes to Haku for what he did to the kind little boy. After the group takes care of the rest of Gato's men, Zabuza asks Kakashi one final request, to see Haku one final time. This is Zabuza's requiem.

With their latest mission complete, it's time once again for the group to go back to mediocre missions. After all are done, Konohamaru and his friends pay a visit to Naruto. All which result in being chased by Sakura. Everyone is soon over though, as two mysterious ninja block their way, and one of them isn't too happy with Konohamaru. Sasuke arrives to save the day, but the leader of the group shows up, with stealth skills that surprise even Sasuke. Meanwhile, the Third Hokage announces that it's time once again for the Chuunin selection exams.

After the three ninjas take their leave, Sasuke realizes he has a powerful rival out there. The next day, Kakashi announces that he has recommended all of them for the Chuunin Exams. While Naruto and Sasuke are pleased, Sakura is afraid of letting everyone down. Also, someone decides they aren't ready and decides to test their abilities.

Rock Lee challenges Sasuke to a one-on-one fight. Naruto grows angry and attacks him, only to be beaten in one attack. Sasuke realizes the challenge and eagerly accepts. But will Sasuke be defeated just as easily by this mysterious ninja? Sasuke's only advantage seems to be his Sharingan, but what happens when not even that will work?

A reunion of all the rookies isn't a very happy one, as all of them prepare to take the Chuunin Exam. With so many rivals around, Naruto's team will need help from a fellow ninja named Kabuto to know what they're up against. Will the group be able to last through the exam?

The first test of the Chuunin Exam is just that, a written test. When Ibiki issues a strict set of rules, Naruto fails to realize that the objective of the test is to cheat without getting caught. Can Naruto realize the truth before time runs out? And what about the tenth question?

As time ticks away, Naruto's only hope of passing the test lies in the final question. However, there is a requirement to answering the final question. If you choose not to answer it, you fail the test and can try again next time. But, if you choose to answer it and get it wrong, you can never take the test again and must stay a Genin forever! What will Naruto's choice be?

Before the second exam can begin, Konohamaru and his friends pull the members of Team 7 aside for interviews, where they retell the storyline to this point.

The second exam is about to begin, and every ninja must sign a form so that their team can get either the Heaven or Earth Scroll. The goal is to get one of each scroll and make it to the tower in five days. The groups get their scrolls and the exam begins. Naruto is ambushed by a ninja who poses as him. This ninja doesn't fool Sasuke, who immediately figures it out. Meanwhile, a new foe seeks them out, but who is this foe?

To prevent further problems, Sasuke thinks up a password to determine friend from foe. Sasuke identifies another fake Naruto, when the phony says the pasword correctly. While Sasuke and Sakura deal with this mysterious ninja, Naruto has his hands full with a giant snake. Can Naruto handle this on his own? And what about Sasuke and Sakura, can they survive the ordeal?

Sasuke is about to give up and give their scroll to the enemy, when Naruto stops him and accuses him of being a fake. Naruto then turns to the Grass ninja and begins his attack. the Grass ninja summons one of his snakes but Naruto uses Kyubi's strength to defeat the snake. He then begins to taunt Sasuke with the same tant Sasuke once gave him. However, when the Grass ninja stops Kyubi's chakra flow, can Sasuke muster up the courage to fight?

Sasuke is still stuck in his trance and even Sakura's pleas can't get him back to normal. After remembering what his brother said, Sasuke begins to fight the Grass ninja again. Meanwhile, Anko searches for the Grass ninja fake. Sasuke falls behind in his fight with the Grass ninja but catches them off guard and ties them to a tree. Sasuke then uses his Katon, Ryuuka no Jutsu (Fire Element: Dragon Flame Jutsu) and it seems he has defeated the ninja. However, is the ninja truly defeated, or is there more to them than meets the eye?

Since Sakura was the only who did not get injured in the previous battle she must watch over and protect her teammates. Unknown to her though there are Sound ninja watching from the trees. Sakura falls asleep but is awakened by a nightmare. The sound ninja attack her but she reveals a trap. It fails and Sakura is left defenseless. Lee arrives, but will he be enough to defeat the three Sound ninja?

Dosu makes short work of Lee in his weak state, and goes after Sakura to get to Sasuke. Sakura tries to stop him but gets caught by Kin. Kin then tells Zaku to kill Sasuke. Sakura then realizes everyone has been protecting her so it is time for her to protect them. She then brakes free from Kin and attacks Zaku. Can Sakura succeed where even Lee failed?

With Sakura defeated and facing certain death, Ino has her team step in and defend Team Kakashi and Rock Lee. It appears that they have the upper hand, but the Sound ninja show how ruthless they really are. Neji and Tenten show up but Neji decides they will not fight for there is an even bigger level of power...and it's not the Sound trio. When Sasuke wakes up with an onimous dark ara surrounding him, and the mysterious seal from Orochimaru spreading over his body, he has but one goal...make his enemies pay!

Kiba, Shino, and Hinata decide to try and eliminate their opponents by taking more scrolls. They arrive upon a battlefield where three Rain ninjas are battling Gaara, Kankuro, and Temari. They remain hidden and observe the battle, thinking one of the Rain ninjas is a dangerous foe. After realizing Gaara's amazing abilities, they discover who is the really the dangerous one, and will be lucky if they can sneak away with their lives!

Team Kakashi still has only one scroll and there is only a day left before the test ends. Naruto decides they need to make a fake scroll and goes to open their Earth scroll, when Kabuto shows up and stops him, explaining that the scroll will knock them out until after the exam ends. He then tells them he will help them find the scroll they need. They seem to be on the ones on the hunt, but what happens when they fall into a trap set by the enemy?

Naruto and the gang realize they have been caught in an illusionary technique and then they are attacked. Several Clones appear and Naruto tries to get rid of one, but is attacked when he isn't looking. He then uses his Shadow Clone Jutsu and the others join in to help him fight. The real Rain ninja come out when the group is tired and realize they have been tricked when Kabuto, Sasuke, and Sakura appear behind them. The Rain ninja then show they are not done fighting yet. Can the four defeat the three ninja when they can't even see them? And what are Kabuto true reasons for helping out the group?

The second exam ends and Team Kakashi has made it through. They open their scrolls and Iruka is summoned and he explains what it means to be a Chuunin and expresses his concern for the three. His worries are put to ease with a comment from Naruto. Meanwhile, Anko informs the ANBU about Orochimaru the S-Class criminal who even the ANBU cannot stop. As the group enters a large room, they see that all of the Konoha rookie Genins have passed, along with Kabuto's group, Gaara's group, the Sound ninja group, and Rock Lee's group. The Third Hokage explains to everyone what the third exam truly holds. They aren't just testing, they're actually fighting a miniature war!

With so many participants still left, the groups are told that they will be pitted against each other in preliminary matches. Kabuto leaves, then Sasuke is told he has to fight. They know that Sasuke was given the cursed seal and if it takes over they will stop him. Can Sasuke stop the seal from taking over again and still win?

Unable to use his chakra against Akado, Sasuke uses good old-fashioned taijutsu to defeat him. Kakashi, tipped off by Sakura's exceptionally worrisome behavior, senses something is wrong with Sasuke, and takes him away after his match. Now, the next match of Shino vs. Zaku arrives.

While Shino and Zaku finish their fight Kakashi seals the Curse Seal on Sasuke. When he finishes explaining how it works Orochimaru himself shows up in flesh and blood. Will Kakashi be able to protect the weakened Sasuke from this skilled foe. And who will be fighting in the next match?

Kankuro takes on Kabuto's teammate, Misumi, in a quick battle, proving how tough the Sand ninja really are. However, the real match comes when Sakura and Ino are pitted against one another!

Sakura and Ino prepare to settle the score once and for all! However, when Sakura becomes the victim of Ino's Mind-Body Switch Justu, will she be forced to give up the match?

Temari of the Sand Village battles Tenten from Leaf Village, with Tenten losing. Now, Shikamaru battles Kin of the Sound village, but can he defeat an opponent who has already seen his moves once before?

The match between Kiba and Naruto kicks off, with Kiba immediately proving he has the upper hand in the battle. Everyone still believes Naruto is the weak ninja he's always been, everyone except for Hinata, Kakashi, and Sakura. Now it's Naruto's time to shine, and this time...everyone will be watching him!

The battle between Naruto and Kiba draws to a close, with each of them giving it everything they've got. After being tricked by Naruto, Kiba can no longer rely on Akamaru's help. Naruto decides now is the time to release his new jutsu, only Kiba won't give him time to prepare it!

Kiba alerts Hinata, as he's being taken away, that there are only a few fighters left. He warns her that if she fights Gaara, she has to give up immediately or she could be killed. He also tells her to give up if paired against Neji, because Neji already has issues with her. Just then, the board shows the next fight...Hinata vs. Neji. Just how far will Hinata go to prove herself?

Hinata will not give up so easily, especially with Naruto watching her. Will Hinata be willing to give up her own life in order to prove herself, or will the match be stopped before Neji can connect a killing move?

The second-to-last match finally arrives! Rock Lee must face down the mysterious and dangerous Gaara, a ninja who is said to have never been truly injured in a fight before.

As the battle between Lee and Gaara continues, Gai remembers how hard Lee used to train and how Lee has pretty much no ninjutsu or genjutsu skills. Lee is also a dropout, like Naruto. In order to defeat Gaara, Lee will have to use the move Gai forbade him to use.

The match between Gaara and Lee draws to an end as Lee unleashes his ultimate move. But will even this be enough to defeat Gaara? Even if Lee does make it out in one piece, even more shocking news awaits him.

As Chouji faces off against Dosu, Orochimaru gives an order for Kabuto to abduct Sasuke. He also tells Kabuto that if he wants to stop him, he'll have to kill Sasuke. As Kabuto approaches Sasuke, he hesitates on what to do. His spy cover is soon blown though, as Kakashi appears on the scene. Will Kakashi save Sasuke from Kabuto's grasp?

Naruto wants Kakashi to train him, but Kakashi has other things to do. Naruto knows he's planning on training Sasuke, and becomes jealous. Kakashi tells him Naruto has a better instructor coming to teach him. To Naruto's surprise, his new teacher is Konohamaru's teacher, Ebisu. Naruto wants to know how come he has to be trained by somebody whom he defeated once before. Ebisu makes Naruto a deal, saying he'll make Kakashi train him if he can get away from him. Naruto decides to take on Ebisu's challenge, but can he escape from Ebisu?

While Ebisu trains Naruto on how to walk on water in a hotspring, he spies somebody trying to peep on women in a hotspring. Ebisu attacks him, only to be defeated quickly. Since Naruto's teacher has been knocked out, Naruto demands that the stranger become his teacher instead, but he has other plans. Naruto's Sexy Jutsu may be just the thing to get this pervert's attention.

While Jiraiya attempts to teach Naruto the Summoning Jutsu, while doing research as well, Dosu learns the hard way why Gaara is so dangerous. Meanwhile, Baki and Kabuto secretly meet and reveal a sinister plot against Konoha. When Hayate discovers this dark secret, he attempts to warn the Hokage. However, he'll have to get through Baki first!

Sakura goes to visit Sasuke and Lee in the hospital, along the way, she meets up with Ino and the two make the trip together. Lee tries to resume his training with limited success, making Sakura worry more about him and Sasuke.

Since Naruto is having little to no success at summoning frogs, Jiraiya figures that if Naruto's to learn how summon Kyubi's chakra, he's going to need to be put into a life-threating situation. After having Naruto do a bunch of tasks, he throws Naruto off a cliff. Naruto's only hope of survival lies within an encounter with the Nine-Tailed Demon Fox himself. But, will Kyubi be willing to help him?

Overjoyed at his success, Naruto manages to enrage Gamabunta. With him not willing to accept that Naruto was able to summon him, Naruto challenges Gamabunta to accept him as his subordinate if he is able to stay on his back until sundown.

Due to the events with Gamabunta, Naruto is now stuck in the hospital. Shikamaru unexpectedly pays him a visit, saying the two of them are the types who never get girls to visit them. Meanwhile, Gaara approaches an unconscious Rock Lee, with the full intention of taking his life. Luckily for Lee, Naruto and Shikamaru are there to protect him. However, can they save even themselves after learning Gaara's shocking secret? What is it that Naruto has realized about Gaara?

Waking up late, Naruto hurries to the stadium where the Chuunin matches will be held, along the way he stops at his old training ground and meets up with Hinata. Naruto tells Hinata that he's afraid he'll lose, but with Hinata's encouragement and sort-of-confession of her feelings, Naruto is filled with renewed confidence and proceeds to the stadium leaving a shellshocked Hinata in his wake. Now Naruto must try to make it the stadium before it's too late, and Konohamaru has a plan to help him out.

The opening ceremony to the Final Matches begins and Sasuke is missing, worrying Naruto. The ceremony ends and Naruto starts his fight with Neji. Will Naruto's confidence lead him to a victory or are Neji's skills to much for him? And where is Sasuke?

Naruto begins his assault with his Shadow Clones but Neji analyzes Naruto's actions and determines the real one. Much to his surprise the one he thought was real is a fake as well. Naruto manages a sneak attack, but fails when Neji finds a way to counter it. Unable to figure out why Naruto won't admit his defeat, he takes off his headband and reveal a mysterious mark on his forehead. Neji reveals the turth about his hatred towards the main family of the Hyuuga Clan.

With all of his tenketsus closed, Naruto cannot feel chakra in him and can barely stand. Neji continues to say that Naruto's fate does not include his winning. Neji exclaims that Naruto has no idea what it feels like to carry a seal that cannot be removed. Naruto thinks about how he was neglected and ignored because of the Nine-Tails sealed within him and says that he does too understand. Now, the only way for Naruto to win lies in summoning Kyubi's chakra.

With Sasuke still absent, and everyone anxiously anticipating his match against Gaara, the tournament is forced to move on to the next round. Meanwhile, Neji learns the shocking truth about his father.

Shikamaru takes on Temari, only he doesn't want to fight. Can the lazy Shikamaru even last the round? Or is there more to Shikamaru than meets the eye?

It's time for Sasuke's match against Gaara, only Sasuke has yet to show up. Normally they'd disqualify him, but everyone's anxiously awaiting the match. Therefore, they give Sasuke a time limit before disqualifying him. As time slowly begins to run out, only one question remains on everyone's mind...where's Sasuke?

Sasuke's match against Gaara finally begins! Gaara seems to have the upper hand at the beginning, until Sasuke shows off his newly found taijutsu techniques. Gaara is reliving the battle against Rock Lee all over again, only this time he's facing an opponent who can use more than simple taijutsu attacks.

With Gaara's ultimate defense in place, Sasuke's only hope of winning lies within the move Kakashi taught him...Chidori. But, how will Gaara react when Sasuke causes him to bleed?

Sasuke's match is interrupted when Orochimaru puts his plan into action. Temari and Kankuro are ordered to get Gaara to safety until he recovers, leaving Sasuke to chase after them. War has begun!

Knowing that Sasuke is in over his head, Kakashi sends Naruto, Sakura, and Shikamaru, being guided by a dog named Pakkun, to stop Sasuke from pursuing Gaara.

Naruto, Sakura, Shikamaru, and Pakkun are being chased down by several Sound ninja. Shikamaru decides to stop and try to hold them off so the others can catch up to Sasuke without fear of pursuit. Shikamaru is the logical choice because of his Shadow Possession Jutsu...needless to say, Shikamaru's not too thrilled by this.

This is a battle of kings has begun as Orochimaru has summoned the bodies of the First and Second Hokage, using a forbidden technique. They have no choice but to fight. Now, the Third Hokage not only has to deal with Orochimaru, his student and one of the Legendary Sannin, but two of the greatest Hokages of all of Konoha as well. Meanwhile, Sasuke finally catches up with the Kakurou, Gaara, and Temari. Will the Third be able to beat the these killing puppets? And, what will become of Sasuke?

Naruto and Sakura continue to catch up to Sasuke. At the same time, Sasuke catches up to Temari, Kankuro, and Gaara. Temari tries to stall Sasuke long enough for Kankuro to get Gaara to safety, but Sasuke doesn't have time to waste on her. Meanwhile, the Third Hokage continues his battle with Orochimaru, and is ready to use a move that not even he knows.

Naruto and Sakura continue to catch up to Sasuke. At the same time, Sasuke catches up to Kankuro and Gaara. Kankuro tell Temari to take Gaara and run, as he prepares to stall Sasuke. An unlikely ally saves Sasuke the burden of fighting Kankuro, and allows him to continue to pursue Gaara. Meanwhile, the Hokage prepares to make the ultimate sacrifice to rid his village of Orochimaru.

While Shino and Kankuro fight the match they should've fought back during the Chuunin Exam, Naruto, Sakura, and Pakkun slowly catch up to Sasuke. Meanwhile, Sasuke has finally caught up with Gaara and Temari, but is he ready to face true horror when Gaara reveals his demon form?

Sasuke struggles to keep up with Gaara's monstrous capacity. Only able to use Chidori twice on normal circumstances, Sasuke remembers the tragic day that his family died. After failing to defeat Gaara, Sasuke realizes he must risk the use of Chidori beyond his limit if he's to defeat Gaara. That is, will he make it?

As Sasuke is about to be defeated, Naruto and Sakura show up to save him. With this Gaara begins to have flashbacks of his childhood. What happened in Gaara's past to make him experience so much suffering?

Gaara continues to talk about his past. When Gaara states that Naruto can't become stronger when he fights for everyone else, Naruto recalls that if he didn't meet his friends, he would be the same as Gaara. Realizing that he has to protect his friends, Naruto overcomes his fear and decides to take on Gaara.

Naruto and Gaara continue their fight. Naruto begins to get an advantage, and Gaara transforms into the final form of Shukaku of the Sand. As he begins to put the squeeze on Naruto, Naruto summons Gamabunta Oyabun, and his comeback begins. Once again, Naruto begins to get an advantage, but Gaara casts the technique of fake sleep, releasing the full power of Shukaku. Now that the demon is free, what will Naruto do?

Transformed into Kyubi, Naruto and Gamabunta prepare to stop Shukaku by waking Gaara up. Though they succeed, the battle is far from over as Gaara won't stop until Naruto is dead. Naruto and Gaara prepare for their final attacks. Meanwhile, Sarutobi continues trying to defeat Orochimaru. And even though Sarutobi isn't strong enough to kill Orochimaru, he does have enough strength to take away Orochimaru's most prized possession...the use of his arms!

As the war draws to a close, Gaara admits his defeat to Naruto, and Orochimaru is forced to retreat as Sarutobi took away his arms. Now, all of the Konoha shinobi gather together to pay their respects to the person whom they respected the most...Sarutobi, the Third Hokage.

Two mysterious ninja infiltrate Konoha, and one of them bares the Sharingan. Just what are these two after? Why has Itachi Uchiha returned to Konoha?

Kakashi takes on Itachi, with both of them using the Sharingan. However, Kakashi soon realizes that he stands no chance against the legendary ninja. Itachi reveals that he has not come for his little brother, but instead he's come to do something else...abduct Naruto, and Kyubi as well!

Jiraiya and Naruto begin their search for Tsunade, but are constantly sidetracked by Jiraiya's peeping and hitting on pretty girls. Jiraiya tells Naruto some stories about the 3rd and 4th Hokages. Meanwhile, Sasuke learns that his brother, Itachi, is after Naruto and goes to warn him.

Sasuke remembers the day that Itachi single-handedly wiped out the entire Uchiha clan as he desperately searches for Naruto. However, Itachi and Kisame have already found him.

Jiraiya and Naruto look on as Sasuke takes on Itachi alone. However, when the young ninja is severely outclassed, Jiraiya is forced to step in. Itachi and Kisame try to flee, but Jiraiya isn't about to let them get away so easily.

Now that Sasuke is with safe hands, Naruto and Jiraiya can continue their search for Tsunade. Their trip ends when they arrive in a city where a festival is on its way. Jiraiya and Naruto have some fun until a Naruto puts a stain in a man's shirt. He attacks them and Jiraiya used a new technique that he will teach Naruto. What is this new technique? And can Naruto master it?

Jiraiya gives Naruto the task of rotating the water in a balloon until it pops. Naruto is confident that he will accomplish this stage of the training by night, but soon learns it's not as easy as expected.

After passing stage one of the training, Naruto moves into stage two: power training. Jiraiya realizes that, like him, Naruto has a hard time concentrating, so he paints a spiral in the palm of Naruto's hand to help him to focus. With the aid of the spiral and a quick flashback to Iruka-sensei, Naruto completes stage two. Meanwhile, Tsunade's luck become uncommonly good, which worries her. After being talked into sightseeing by her assistant, Tsunade meets Orochimaru...and she doesn't look at all pleased.

Naruto continues his training of the Rasengan, having mastered the stages of spin and power. The final stage proves to be the most difficult: control. Meanwhile, Orochimaru and Kabuto accost Tsunade and ask her to restore Orochimaru's arms. If she restores Orochimaru's arms, he promises to use his Rebirth of the Impure World kinjutsu to revive her lost lover and little brother.

Jiraiya and Naruto catch up to Tsunade, whereupon she learns that Konoha wants her to be the 5th Hokage. She refuses the title, angering Naruto, who mistakes her for being a weakling. Naruto learns first-hand how strong she really is. Naruto decides now is the time to try out the Rasengan, only he hasn't perfected it yet.

Naruto makes a bet with Tsunade, that if he can master the Rasengan in one week, she'll give him a necklace belonging the to the First Hokage. However, Shizune reveals some startling information. Everybody, except for Tsunade, who's worn that necklace has died the next day!

While Naruto continues to try and master the third step, Tsunade continues to think about Orochimaru's offer. Jiraiya tries to convince her by taking her out for a drink, only she slipped a paralyzing potion into his drink while he wasn't looking. Will Tsunade agree to Orochimaru's offer? And will Naruto master the Rasengan before the week is up?

Because Orochimaru lied to her about not attacking Konoha, Tsunade begins her onslaught against Orochimaru and Kabuto. Orochimaru has Kabuto fight, but he cannot fight in such a close space so they move to an open field. Kabut eats a food pill and begins to attack Tsunade with his medical techniques. Kabuto takes out Tsunade's arm and leg and makes it hard for her to breath. Can Tsunade win against Kabuto? Will Jiraiya, Shizune, and Naruto show up in time to save her?

With Tsunade still paralized with fear and Naruto being a low level ninja, it is up to Shizune and Jiraiya to defeat Kabuto and Orochimaru. Orochimaru and Kabuto summon two giant snakes while Jiraiya summons Gamakichi, who does nothing. Naruto tries to help Jiraya, but he too only summons a small frog that also does nothing. Orochimaru and Kabuto attack and Shizune is easily defeated. Naruto tries Rasengan but fails. Can he master the technique before Kabuto does anything to Tsunade? How far will he go to master it?

Naruto finally lands a Rasengan into Kabuto's stomach but not before Kabuto damages Naruto's muscles and severs the chakra line to his heart, meaning Naruto's certain death. Tsunade saves Naruto only to have to protect him again from Orochimaru. Orochimaru is set on killing Naruto but Tsunade keeps getting in the way!

With Tsunade in her current conidtion, and Jiraiya still under the effects of the drug, Tsunade and Jiraiya must work together to defeat Orochimaru. And with all three ninja having summoned their signature beasts, it's sure to be one heck of a battle!

On their way back to Konoha, Naruto, Tsunade, Jiraiya, and Shizune stop at a town with hotsprings. Unknown to them they are being watched by two men looking for Tsunade. While in the hotsprings Naruto's room gets raided and the necklace Tsunade gave him is missing. Naruto finds a note and follows the directions on it to a hill outside of town where he meets the two men from earlier. They reveal to Naruto that Tsunade owes their family money and they have come to retrieve it from her. When they pretend to kidnap Naruto to get the money they fail and end up having Naruto steal Tsunade's bag. Shizune gives chase, but can she stop them and what is so important about Tsunades bag?

Naruto, Tsunade, and Shizune finally return to Konoha so Tsunade can take over and become Hokage. Konohamaru finds out that Tsunade is the Fifth but refuses to believe it. Naruto then takes Tsunade to the hospital so she can heal Sasuke, Kakashi, and Lee. She heals Sasuke and Kakashi just fine...However, her diagnosis of Rock Lee has heartbreaking consequences for him and his future.

Konohamaru locks himself in the office used by the 3rd to stop them from replacing his grandfather, the previous Hokage. Tsunade spends the day locked out of her office and researches a way to heal Rock Lee so he has a better chance of surviving the operation,

As Lee decides whether or not to go through with the operation, Gai decides to give him some motivation. Meanwhile, Tsunade frantically struggles to increase the operation's success rate.

After their mission, Naruto persuades Sakura and Sasuke to help him unmask their sensei, Kakashi. However, Squad 7 soon finds out that this is easier said than done...

Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke find out their newest mission will be without Kakashi, who has his own mission. The only problem is that they only know they are protecting someone and that is it. Tsunade sends them to Tea Country to meet with the Wasabi Clan leader. Along the way the meet Idate Morino who causes trouble for them. Later Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke find out they must protect Idate from attacks by the enemy clan, during a race. Can the three protect this trouble-maker from the enemy clan?

Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke continue to follow Idate while fending off attacks by three shinobi sent by Wasaragi. They find out that if Idate does not win the race, Wasaragi will destroy the Wasabi clan. After fighting their way out of some tough spots the four finally reach the sea where Idate tells the three why he did not get in the boat before. They borrow an old man's boat but are attacked by the same shinobi while out at sea. Can Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke protect Idate in such a confined area?

While Aoi, the shinobi that is working for Wasarabi, begins to beat up Idate, Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura finally get to the island Idate is located on. As they are about to go look for Idate they are attacked by their old Rain ninja friends from the Chuunin exam. Naruto gets rid of them using Rasengan so the three go search for Idate. They find Idate badly injured and Aoi standing near him. Naruto and Sasuke attack Aoi but are easily defeated. Before he leaves Aoi tells the three that the needles he attacked them and Idate with are poisonous and mean certain death for Naruto, Sasuke, and Idate. Can they find a remedy before it is to late?

With Naruto's help, Idate reaches the Modoroki Shrine... But just as he's about to cross the bridge, an old nemesis stands in his way.

Now that Sasuke and Sakura are trapped at the bottom of a cliff, it's up the Number One Knucklehead Ninja to defeat the malevolent Aoi and help Idate cross the finish line.

Hospital bound and feeling his pride shattered, Sasuke finds there is only way to redeem himself: Battle Naruto! Meanwhile, the Ino-Shika-Cho Squad sit down for some barbeque to celebrate a special occasion!

As their rivalry reaches a fever pitch, Kakashi-sensei breaks up the battle and send Naruto and Sasuke to their corners. Meanwhile, Four Sound ninja enter the Hidden Leaf Village with only one thing on their mind... Sasuke!

Sasuke takes on all four Sound Ninja, but soon learns it's going to take more than Chidori to defeat them!

Now that word of Sasuke's departure has spread to the Fifth Hokage, she calls upon the newest Chunin, Shikamaru, to put together a squad to bring Sasuke back to the village.

The Sound Ninja have Sasuke in their clutches and it's up to the Hidden Leaf Village's top Shinobi to stop them.

As Shikamaru and the rest of the squad move in, Jirobo, one of the Sound Ninja, traps them within an Earth Dome Prison and sucks up their chakra!

Upon breaking free from the Earth Dome Prison, The Sasuke Retrieval Squad realize they don't have enough chakra to take on Jirobo... but Choji's got another idea up his sleeve.

With his life on the line against the Sound Ninja Jirobo, Choji looks back on seeds of his friendship with Shikamaru. Can he defeat his fearsome opponent without any Chakra?

Hot on Sasuke's trail, Shikamaru and his squad get caught up in a web of unparalled chakra when they tangle with the six-armed Kidomaru!

While Naruto and the others go after Sasuke and the other Sound Ninja, Neji is locked in a desperate no-holds-barred battle with Kidomaru.

Neji's on the run from Kidomaru's bow and arrow attacks. Will Neji make it out alive or will his new-found enemy hit his blindspot dead on?

In pursuit of the Sound Ninja, Naruto, Kiba and Shikamaru strike at dawn to retrieve Sasuke and bring him back to the Hidden Leaf Village.

Naruto, Kiba and Shikamaru intercept Sasuke from the Sound Ninja Four, but little do they know that another ninja from the Sound Village has been dispatched to grab Sasuke as well.

Faced against the vicious twin duo of Sakon and Ukon, Kiba and Akamaru team up to take them out, using their most powerful jutsu.

With the Sasuke retrieval squad now split into individual battles, it's up to Naruto, Kiba and Shikamaru to stop the sound ninja. But little do they realize that there's more to their opponents than their basic techniques.

Shikamaru's got his hands full with Tayuya and her melodic attacks. Can he stop her and put an end to her malevolent flute playing?

Naruto's Shadow Clones are no match for Kimimaro's attacks. But when an old bushy-browed buddy from the Leaf Village shows up, all bets are off!

Rock Lee's back and he's full of a special medicine that has Kimimaro on the run! Can he take out the fifth Sound Ninja?

Down for the count and at the mercy of the Sound Ninja, Kiba, Shikamaru and Rock Lee get help from an unlikely bunch of new allies.

Itching to fight and a sense of guilt from the past, Gaara tells Rock Lee to stand down and let him take on Kimimaro. Meanwhile, Naruto continues on his quest to catch the runaway Sasuke.

As Gaara demonstrates he has more than enough backbone to take on Kimimaro, Orochimaru recollects on how brought him as a young man into the Sound Village.

Finally catching up to Sasuke, Naruto does all he can to keep him from going to Orochimaru. Does he have enough strength to stop him or is Sasuke gone for good?

Naruto and Sasuke face off in battle as we get a glimpse into Sasuke's past where his achievements were ignored by his father and his brother Itachi's behavior began to take a turn for the worst.

As Sasuke squares off against Naruto, he reflects on his past when he was neglected by both his stern father and Itachi, his brooding older brother.

While Naruto is busy underwater, Sasuke remembers the fateful day in which his clan was killed. He remembers why Itachi spared his life, and why Itachi did what what he did. Now, in order to gain the same power as his brother, he must kill his closest friend...Naruto!

Kakashi learns the truth about the chase after Sasuke, and orders his dogs, including Pakkun, to go find Naruto and Sasuke. However, things are looking grim as the clash between the Chindori and the Rasengan ensues. The attacks are even, causing Naruto and Sasuke to both fly back. Naruto finally realizes how serious Sasuke is, and gets the snot beat out of him while he remembers how he always wanted to be friends with Sasuke.

Naruto proves to be too much for Sasuke to handle as Naruto beats the snot out of him. Finally acknowledging Naruto's strength, Sasuke puts on his forehead protector, symbolizing both as equals. But when Sasuke's Sharingan is upgraded to level 3, the tables turn on Naruto. Just when all hope seems lost for Naruto, he undergoes a startling transformation, but will it be enough?

The battle between Naruto and Sasuke comes to a close, as One-Tailed Naruto takes on Cursed Seal Level 2 Sasuke in one final Rasengan vs. Chidori clash! And this time...only one person will emerge victorious. Will Kakashi and Pakkun make it in time? And who is this mysterious ninja watching everything?

Shikamaru's group is brought back to Konoha with many injuries. Neji and Chouji could possibly die, Kiba has a deep wound but nothing too serious, and Naruto and Shimakamru have a few injuries. When Sakura finds out they are back ,she goes immediatley to see Sasuke and Naruto but finds out Sasuke got away. Can Naruto keep his promise to Sakura? And what news does the Jiraiya have for Naruto?

Jiraiya begins to worry about Naruto and Sakura's wellbeing. He then requests that Tsunade send them the two on a mission with him. He finds Naruto telling Sakura he is not going to stop her from going after Sasuke, but he is going with her, and tells them about the mission. They head off to Rice Country to find the Hidden Sound Village, and hopefully Sasuke as well.

Naruto, Sakura, and Jiraiya end up in a town that is worse then the one they were chased out of. Jiraiya heads off and leaves Naruto and Sakura to get food. Along the way they find the ninja, that attacked them before, injured and fight some Sound ninja to save them. Who is this mysterious ninja nd what do they know about The Hidden Sound village?

When Sasame durgs the gang, she prepares to let them be given to Orochimaru. But, when she discovers that they were planning to be killed, she begs the ones about to do so to stop. Naruto reveals that he and the others faked being put to sleep, and attack.

Sasame leads Naruto, Jiraiya, and Sakura to Orochimaru's hideout. They send Sasame back to the village because of the danger level. Jiraiya summons Gamakichi to go in first and investigate. The four come to three tunnels. Jiraiya goes off to the right, Naruto and Sakura down the middle and Gamakichi down the left. Will the four of them make it past the traps?

Naruto arrives in the nick of time to save Sakura, but not before Kabuto tells her that Sasuke is dead. Naruto tells her not to believe him and a battle ensues. Naruto defeats him with the Rasengan, but Kabuto traps him in some chakra threads. Now, if Kabuto dies, so will Naruto. As Kabuto speeds up the death rate, Sakura tries to free him. Sasame arrives and saves Naruto, only to find out that the Kabuto they fought is actually Kagerou. They finally find Arashi, but he isn't the Arashi that Sasame once knew.

Naruto takes on Arashi, but gets trapped easily. Sakura thinks he's dead and Naruto ends up blowing his sneak attack cover to protect her. Naruto tries his attack again, but his injury causes a problem. Naruto gets trapped in an attack that will crush him if he doesn't get out. Sasame attacks Arashi manages to set him free for a second. However, it doesn't last long and he soon tries to kill Sasame. Sakura jumps in the way and says she will give her life to protect her friends. Naruto tells her she can't die and Arashi tries to finish Naruto off. Sasame causes enough of a distraction for Naruto to break free. The attack caused by Naruto frees Arashi, and Arashi protects Sasame. The place begins to collapse and Jiraiya arrives. Arashi throws them Sasame and tells them he can't leave since he is a puppet. He tells Naruto that Sasuke is alive and they all leave, leaving Arashi behind. The Fuuma Clan promises to rebuild their town and everyone heads back to Konoha. Now, Sakura wishes to become Tsunade's student.

With the events of the Rice Field Country behind them, everyone prepares for their training. But, a new threat soon arises. Remember Mizuki? He's back, and he's planning to break out of Konoha's Correctional Facility along with the help of two stupid, fat brothers. However, this time Orochimaru may be pulling the strings. Asuma and Kurenai are sent to interrogate Mizuki, but they run into trouble on the way. Naruto shows up and find the two jounins injured.

Shizune and her team encounter Mizuki, but all of them are defeated. When Ton-ton comes back to warn Tsunade, Naruto takes the innitiative to find Shizune with Ton-ton's help. Kakashi arrives and finds out the situation. Unfortunately, he has another misssion. So, he summons Pakkun who will guide Iruka to Naruto. Iruka eventually catches up to Naruto and Pakkun sends Ton-ton back to the village. Pakkun leads them and they soon find Shizune. They chase after Mizuki, when they soon fall into a trap. Iruka reveals that Shizune is not Shizune, but actually Mizuki. Mizuki attacks Iruka while Naruto deals with Fuujin and Raijin. But, Naruto's attacks don't even hurt them.

Naruto is having trouble with the two brothers, and Iruka is having his share of difficulties with Mizuki. Iruka struggles to try and get the old Mizuki back, but Mizuki explains the only reason he was ever nice to Iruka was because he wanted to be the Hokage's favorite too. He wanted Iruka to be miserable, and not to have everyone else be so kind to him and not himself. Iruka and Mizuki then prepare to fight again. Meanwhile, after many Kagebunshin attacks, Naruto finally has a chance to use Rasengan. But, the brothers accidentally destroy their lunch and make Naruto's attack hit his doppelgangers. As they prepare to kill him, Shikamaru, Chouji, and Ino come to the rescue.

Naruto's backup has arrived and they are Shikamaru, Ino, and Chouji. They tell Naruto that they will take care of the brothers. Naruto leaves to catch up to Iruka, who is fighting Mizuki. Can Naruto arrive before Mizuki kills Iruka? And can Shikamaru, Ino, and Chouji hold off the brothers?

Naruto, Iruka, and Pakkun meet up with Mizuki's fiancee Tsubaki, and she has come to offer help to the three. Meanwhile, Shikamaru, Ino, and Chouji are having trouble holding the two brothers off, and they know that they can't defeat them, so they are stalling for time. Meanwhile, Tsunade discovers a startling secret about Mizuki and Orochimaru, and she's planning on taking this matter into her own hands. Naruto, Iruka, Pakkun, and Tsubaki finally reach Mizuki, but it's too late, he's already completed the formula he was making. Now that he's drank it, he turns into a new monsterous form. And, Naruto has recognized Mizuki's tranformation as one nearly identical to that of Orochimaru's cursed seal.

Mizuki is determined to make Naruto and Iruka suffer, and it appears like he has the upper edge with his improved strength and speed. Meanwhile, Ino, Chouji, and Shikamaru are at their limits, and now Fuujin and Raijin are free. That is until Tsunade shows up and defeats them both easily. Fuujin and Raijin surrender and agree to return peacefully to the institution. Mizuki on the other hand has converted all of his speed to power and prepares to finish Naruto off. That is until Iruka thinks up a plan and traps Mizuki, giving Naruto the chance to Rasengan on him. Mizuki reverts to his original form, badly damage when tsunade shows up and explains everything about the potion Mizuki took. Mizuki will no longer be able to fight as a shinobi. Iruka offers to treat everyone at the ramen bar, and thinks about how Naruto saved his life the same way he had saved Naruto before.

Naruto is unable to search for Sasuke due to Tsunade's orders, while Kiba and Hinata wonder how they can help him out. Shino remembers a special type of bug that if it is found, could easily track Sasuke down. they go and discuss it with Tsunade, who agrees to let them search for it, making Shino the leader. Tsunade discovers Naruto eavsfropping the conversation and lets him go with them. But, can they complete a mission with only a 10% success rate? As they travel, Naruto has difficulty dealing with Shino's bizzare behavior. Hinata also sneaks out in the middle of the night to practice some mysterious moves. After two days of travelling, they finally reach their destination. And they're not alone, a mysterious group is also after the same thing.

The group struggles to find a Bikouchuu, but seems to fail at every turn. Naruto messes up a few times, nearly getting them eaten by a giant Bikouchuumo bug in the process, while the group continued to be watched. However, when it starts raining, they only have one more chance to find it. Thanks to Hinata's Byakugan, they succeed in finding one. Their celebrations are short lived though, when Hinata is kidnapped. Now they must decide on whether or not trade the Bikouchuu for Hinata.

With Hinata's safety in danger, the group must try and figure out a way to save Hinata, and protect the Bikouchuu at the same time. Every time one side seems to have an edge though, the other reveals yet a new trick. As dawn approaches, they don't have long to do either. In the end, naruto, Kiba, and Shino fall into a trap. Can they escape? And, can Hinata save herself from her current situation?

With the group trapped, Shino makes a deal to trade the Bikouchuu for Hinata. Unfortunately for the opponents, Hinata got away, making the deal worthless. They decide to kill Naruto, Shino, and Kiba instead, but back off when they see Kyubi's eyes. They begin to attack again, but Hinata steps in to save the day. Now it's Hinata's turn to shine, and show off her new technique. But, will it be enough?

When Naruto saves three guys, he is dragged into yet another mission. However, unlike the last two this is one he does not wish to partake in. However, when Gai reveals information that the leader of the Kurosuke Family, Raiga, is connected with the Seven Shinobi Lords of the Mist, Naruto decides to change his minds. Zabuza and Kisame (of Akatasuki) were each a lord. So, since Raiga is connected to Kisame who is connected to Itachi who is being pursued by Sasuke, Naruto may have a chance to learn more information. With Neji, Lee, and Tenten as his allies, the group goes on there new mission. But, what awaits them?

Out to try and save Rourusuke, Naruto and the others ambush members of the Kurosuke Family and save an old man. They soon here the funeral bell and go and save Rourusuke. However, Rock lee meets an old friend among the group, and Lee must now convince Kurashi to return his his old way of life. Their time together is cut short, as Raiga watches from the sidelines. Can Naruto, Neji, Rock Lee, and Tenten defeat an enemy that not even Neji's Byakugan can see?

Lee is left facing Raiga alone, while Tenten and the others hurry to bring them the Curry of Life. Raiga easily defeats Lee, sending him donw the cliff. He and everyone else is given the Curry of Life while Ranmaru confronts Raiga. Raiga ia happy that they can be together again, and Ranmaru creats a think mist to surround them. Ranmaru tells Raiga he will be his eyes and he tells Raiga to walk towars a cliff. Will Ranmaru send both Raiga and himself to their deaths, or will a drunken Lee ruin Ranmaru's plans?

Every Genin is assigned a squad of Cadets to lead on a mission that forces all of them to race to the top of a mountain to achieve a scroll and bring it back. And wouldn't you know it, guess who Naruto ends up leading? It's none other than the Konohamaru corps. While everyone seems to be doing just fine, Naruto has trouble leading his team. However, when Naruto strays off from the main path and a storm causes the mission to be cancelled without his knowing, he will have to be a good leader now more than ever if he wants to keep his group alive.

Naruto, Hinata and Kiba are sent off on a mission to capture a thief named Gosunkugi and along the way they meet another bounty hunter who is also after him.

Turns out Sazanami is really a wanted criminal named Toukichi who is wanted for the murder of a family of three. Truth is, he's innocent, and wants to capture the man responsible to prove his innocence. Sazanami teams up with the Konoha group to stop Gosunki once and for all, while still competing about who will be the one to capture him. With another bounty hunter after Sazanami, it won't be an easy task.

As Gai and Lee leave Konoha for a mission, two strangers disguise themselves as Gai and Lee and sneak into the village to learn its secrets. No one is fooled by their disguise though, well except for Naruto who wants to train with them. Tsunade, Sakura, and Tenten have big plans in store for these imposters, plans that'll make their lives miserable.

Naruto, Tenten, and Neji travel to the Bird Country to exterminate a ghost named Noroimusha.

Naruto and the others attempt to prove that Kouhmei is the one responsible for the ghost. However, what Naruto and the gang discover leaves even more mysteries unsolved.

Naruto decides to do some investigating on his own over the matter of the ghost, while Neji and Tenten try a different approach. With the help of two frogs, Naruto begins to learn more and more about the truth of the matter, even to the point of learning the ghost's true identity. Sagi may be the real one behind the mask, but he's still a fuedal lord. Sagi won't let Naruto expose him, even if it means giving him the death penalty.

Kakashi orders Neji and Tenten to return to the village with him, but they are being followed. Meanwhile, Koumei is about to be executed, that is until the Noroimusha appears and saves him. Neji and Tenten are keeping a close eye on the situation though, as they have managed to fool their pursuer. Neji and Tenten confront Koumei and the ghost, until Kakashi tells them to go. Is the ghost an ally or enemy? And whatever became of Naruto? Questions are answered as Sagi reveals the truth.

Sagi prepares his plans for revenge, and he won't let anyone stand in his way. Disguised as the Noroimusha, he confronts Musou, but Musou knows everything. It also turns out that the wandering ninjas can't really steal jutsus, they're all tricks. And, even more shocking news is revealed when Sagi and Musou reveal their true identities.

Shima saves Naruto from Ooki's genjutsu trap, and ends up protecting Naruto from an attack. After Naruto appears to be defeated, Toki gives up the will to live. Naruto sees a white figure appear before him in the form of Sagi. Sagi asks Naruto to move time for his sister again. Naruto prepares to fulfill his wish and protect Toki. After defeating Ooki, the Bird Country is returned to its once peaceful state. As the ruler of the Bird Country, Toki prepares to make everything better. However, one question still remains, was Naruto dreaming of Sagi, or is there really a ghost after all?

Mr. Ichiraku, the owner of the Ichiraku Ramen shop, is in trouble. His daughter Ayame was kidnapped and he only has two ways to get her back: hand over his Legendary Ramen recipe or win a cooking contest by creating a whole new ramen dish. After learning of his plight, Naruto, Chouji and Sakura choose to help Mr. Ichiraku win the contest and get his daughter back. Can the three ninjas with little cooking experience help Mr. Ichiraku win the contest or will he have to hand over his Legendary Ramen recipe?

Being some of the few Genins available, Naruto, Ino, and Shino are forced to accompany Anko on her mission to the Sea Country to destroy a sea monster and protect a boat carrying gold. However, Anko is acting strange as she begins to remember more and more events from her past, and the connection she once had with Orochimaru.

Naruto is recovering thanks to the mysterious girl, Isaribi. While Naruto is recovering, Anko, Shino, and Ino search for him and also meet the man in charge of the payroll shipment. The group eventually meets back up, but not before finding the sea monster's lair.

After Isaribi escapes, Naruto and his team decide to go to the forbidden island and confront Orochimaru and his subordinates. They soon discover that Orochimaru is not the man behind the curtain, but a man known as Amachi. Amachi is the one responsible for turning Isaribi into a monster, so why is she helping him?

After narrowly escaping the collapsing lab, Naruto and the others must catch up to the money convoy. However, Amachi has already set his trap, and the convoy crew has taken the bait. Naruto and the others arrive to save the day, as all of them prepare for battle. But can the group defeat Amachi when he reveals his true self? And what will happen when Isaribi realizes how far Naruto will go to save her?

Naruto and Amachi's battle comes to a rather quick end, or does it? Also, Anko recovers more of her past including a significant event.

In addition to Naruto's normal missions, he gets a special mission involving a VIP. Naruto is forced to hang out with a young boy, who likes ninja. However, the boy thinks money can buy him everything, and Naruto won't stand for that. Teaching the boy will prove to be difficult, especially when he is the target of kidnappers.

Naruto, Kiba, and Hinata are ordered on a special mission: A treasure hunt! There is a downside though; if they fail the mission, they have to go back to the Academy. They set off confident that the mission will be easy, but still worried about having to go back to the academy. Everything is going as well as expected until some mysterious characters show up. Can Naruto and crew find the gold, or will they have to go back to the Academy with the other little kids?

Naruto, Kiba, and Hinata must make it back to Konoha and stop their evil look-alikes from ruining their village. The imposters think it'll be an easy task, but when the real Naruto and Kiba expose their weakness, they discover that it may not be so easy.

Naruto accidently meets up with Jiraiya while in another area, and demands that he trains him. Jiraiya refuses though, as he has to finish the script for his next volume of his series. Anxiously wanting to train, Naruto writes it for him and mails it off. Knowing his reputation is at stake, Jiraiya makes Naruto accompany him on a mission to get it back. However, the Courier Ninja, a type of ninja postman, won't let their missions be stopped so easily. Even worse, turns out Naruto mixed up his delivery with an important message to the Fang Country, and if they don't fix this mess, war will break out!

About 200 years, a star fell to the Hidden Star Village. This star supposedly as mystic powers. However, the village has few ninja, so they require the help of other villages. Naruto accompanies Lee, Neji, and Tenten on a mission to protect it.

After Akahoshi tries to execute Sumaru, Hakuto and the rest of the children stand up to protect their village. After learning the truth, the adults turn on Akahoshi as well. After Akahoshi nearly kills Mizura, he is given no second chances. Not being one to lose, Akahoshi fuses his body with the Star, causing his chakra to go out of control. With everyone else defeated, Naruto is the only one left who can take down this menace. With the help of Natsuhi's spirit, Naruto will prepare to take down Akahoshi with one final attack! But will it be enough?

When Akamaru begins acting strangely, it is decided that he is too dangerous and needs to put down. How far will Kiba go to protect his best buddy, even when Akamaru is willing to harm even him?

While Naruto trains in the forest, a mysterious creature latches onto his back. This legendary creature can't be removed until it becomes an adult, but that's only the beginning of Naruto's problems.

Naruto and Shino go on a mission together to Motoyoshi Village where a man named Fuuta has a strange request. When his father died he put in his will that at his funeral, if Fuuta were to laugh, the inheritance money would be split amoung the family. The relatives would be willing to do anything to make him laugh so he asks Konoha to put in a replacement for him. Shino was perfect for the job but the food was drugged with laughing potion and he started cracking up. So, now Naruto must sit through the entire funeral without laughing at all.

Naruto, Hinata, and Chouji are chosen on a mission to protect some peddlers running away from a war at the Greenery Country. However, Tsunade gave them more than just a simple guard duty mission, making them movers as well. The peddlers are just simple folk, who were never even registered citizens in the country. But, when Naruto discovers the group is being pursued, the three ninja realize that there is more going on than meets the eyes.

The group splits off off into two, with Naruto and Chouji guarding the slower one and Hinata the faster one. After all, surely the slower group would be the target. However, when Naruto and Chouji discover that the faster group is the target, they realize that somebody is indeed hiding something. Truth is, Naruto and the others aren't protecting just some peddlers, but the Greenery Country Princess!

Naruto, Chouji, and Yurinojou take on Ruiga, who uses water as a weapon. Ruiga has the power to draw out water from the Earth, giving him and unlimited supply of ninja weapons. How can they defeat an opponent who has a limitless supply of water? Even if they can win, can they defeat the second ninja, Jiga? Also, what is the Princess' true motive for running away?

With Naruto defeated, Hinata decides to join the fight. Will she be able to defeat the second evil ninja? And what of the princess?

The battle with the third and final evil ninja is on. He has only one desire and that is to kill Princess Haruna. Will Naruto be able to defeat this new menace and save Haruna?

When the daughter of a Feudal Lord calls for a double Ino is brought in to take her place. The only problem is they look nothing alike, the princess has become big boned because she had a lot of stress and ate a lot. Now Ino must stand in for her and arrange a marriage with a man from Udon Country. Can Ino arrage the marriage without problem?

When Naruto gets back from a mission he finds out that Lee has set up a dojo. After being attacked by Lee, Naruto runs away. He then meets up with Gai who asks Naruto about the dojo. Gai is proud of Lee but finds out that no one has come to challenge Lee. So, Gai decides to challenge Lee while in a disguise. Right as he is about to go challenge Lee he is called to go and help Shikamaru, Chouji, and Ino. A ninja then copies Gai's form and acts as Gai. Naruto thinking it is Gai takes him to challenge Lee. What are the plans of this ninja and will Lee be able to defeat him?

Naruto, Hinata, and Kiba are sent to the Land of Honey to search for the Daimyō's wife. There, they find an eerie castle, and journey inside to search for clues.

When Lee misses his check-up, Naruto is sent to find him. With the help of Tenten he finds Lee in his dojo. After going to his check-up, Lee is told by Tsunade he cannot do the Reverse Lotus. Gai tries to cheer him up by taking him to train. While they are training, Lee meets Yagura, who is training under Gai. It is then decided that Lee and Yagura will have a training match. Can Lee beat the new trainee?

Gai is trapped in fortress made by the practice posts. Yagura appears on the outside and reveals that he is not the real Yagura. He is Genshou eldest of the Ryuudoin brothers who have sought revenge on Gai because he defeated their father, Ryuudin Agira. Naruto, Neji, and Tenten show up to save Gai. The three brothers summon more practice posts and Neji figures out how to defeat the posts. After Naruto, Neji, and Tenten dismantle a few, the brothers give the posts different actions. Lee then shows up to save them. Can Lee defeat all the posts and save Gai from the Ryuudoin brothers?

Naruto meets an old man, a construction worker named Gennou. However, when Gennou steals plans for some of the building in Konoha, he is pursued by the ANBU. It turns out Gennou is actually an expert Trap User ninja and was listed in the Bingo Book. After Gennou blows himself up with exploding tags strapped to his chest, the plans go missing. Fearing an invasion of Konoha from whoever hired Gennou, Tsunade asks Shikamaru to have himself and the ten Konoha Genin to keep an eye on things. When they can't find information from anybody, there is only one person who might be able to give them the information they need...Naruto.

In order to get the information they need about Gennou, the ANBU put Naruto in a trance, hoping to prong the information they need from Naruto's memory. However, even by doing all of this, will they get the information they need?

Naruto and the others continue their search for any clues leading to Gennou or his plan. During an investigation of the Ninja Academy, they discover a suspicious training post which leads to an even scarier discovery.

With the city of Konoha mapped in explosive tags a decision must be made on whether or not to remove them or evacuate the citizens of Konoha. Because evacuating everyone would cause suspicion, Shikamaru's team must gradually remove all the tags without anyone noticing. They remove the tags and the elders see something weird. What is the weird thing in the tags? And can they remove all the tags with out causing one to explode?

While Shikamaru tries to figure out what Gennou is planning next, Naruto is fighting Gennou in the Great Stone faces. Can Shikamaru stop Gennou's next step in the plan before it is to late? And will Naruto be able to defeat the Trap Master?

Naruto and Sakura host a special recap episode. The episode features highlights of five battles from the Sasuke Retrieval arc: the battle between Naruto and Sasuke on the hospital roof, the battle between Choji and Jirobo, the battle between Kiba and Sakon, the battle between Neji and Kidomaru, and the last battle between Naruto and Sasuke. There are also interviews with Choji, Kiba and Neji, who all beat up Naruto for making fun of them and saying things like "Choji's fight made him sweat." At the end of the show, Jiraiya announces a surprise guest--Orochimaru--who gives Sakura and Naruto an opportunity to briefly see Sasuke.

Naruto encounters a girl named Yakumo, who, by drawing a picture of Konoha, causes lightning to strike Tsunade's mansion. Shortly thereafter, Kurenai Yuhi resigns as leader of Team 8, and Naruto is determined to find out why. Later, Kurenai goes into Yakumo's Mansion.

Naruto sneaks into Yakumo's mansion in the night, and has a dream that Kurenai threatened to seal Yakumo's abilities. He then discovers that this is the reason why she left the team, but Kurenai refuses to disclose any more. As Kurenai goes to see Yakumo, several Kurama Clan members attack.

As Kurenai attempts to escape with Yakumo, Naruto, Sakura, the members of Team 8 and Might Guy come to their assistance and defeat the enemy. Kurenai and Yakumo reveal that Yakumo was entrusted to Kurenai as her student, as while she was unable to fight, she was a talented genjutsu user. However, Kurenai sealed away her abilities, and Yakumo reveals that she did so under the order of the Third Hokage..

Naruto, Kurenai, Yakumo and Team 8 return to Konoha, which appears to have been destroyed in their absence. They learn from the head of the Kurama clan that they are trapped in a genjutsu that has enveloped the entire town, and Naruto and Team 8 manages to escape. They then enter the mansion to find Kurenai and Yakumo.

Naruto and the members of Team 8 head into Yakumo's house to find her with Kurenai, threatening to erase her former sensei from existence. It is revealed that the malicious entity known as the Idou dwelled within Yakumo's subconscious, and was the reason why her abilities were sealed away. Yakumo ultimately overcomes the Idou and realizes that Kurenai cared about her. Kurenai then returns to an overjoyed Team 8.

Naruto and Kiba are ordered to escort a man named Shinemon who is transporting a rare and valuable artifact. Shinemon makes the mission almost insufferable with his pompous, overbearing attitude and his willingness to put the two in danger just to protect his own interests. Bandits steal the artifact, and when Naruto saves Shinemon after he puts his life at risk to try to save the Kacho Fugetsu, he teaches him that people are more valuable than possessions. It is also revealed that Shinemon is the creator of the Kacho Fugetsu and can easily make another.

Naruto, Sakura, and Lee are sent to escort a prisoner shinobazu named Gantetsu to the Forest Country capital. Their job is to back up the escort group in case the other shinbazu Gantetsu was partnered up with come to try and free him. When they get to the boat Gantetsu is being is being transported on they meet Todoroki who seems to hate Gantetsu and thinks he is guilty no matter what. Will the three ninja be able to fend off any attacks if Gantetsu's friends come to save him? And what is Todoroki's connection with Gantetsu?

With the ship split in half, Naruto, Todoroki, and Gantetsu are seperated from Sakura, Lee, and the escort group. Now Naruto must face the other three shinobazu that Gantetsu was with. Things aren't looking good for the Naruto and Todoroki when the leader of the shinobazu attempts to kill them. After barely escaping they end up in the forest that the base of the shinobazu is located. Can Naruto lead them out or will they have to trust Gantetsu to lead the way?

Todoroki wants to avenge his family and kill Gantetsu. The only problem is Naruto will not allow this because it is their mission to get Gantetsu to the capital. While Naruto and Todoroki fight, the Shinobazu take the opportunity to take Gantetsu. Elsewhere, Lee and Sakura are surrounded by children who demand they give them Gantetsu. Can Naruto and Todoroki get Gantetsu back? And what are the reasons the children want Gantetsu? And why is one of the children Todoroki's little sibling?

Naruto arrives to save Gantetsu and the kids but has trouble when Akio is kidnapped and Todoroki realizes his brother is alive. Will Naruto and Todoroki be able to save Akio?

Naruto rescues a kid who was injured but he is an outsider to Konoha. Tsunade assigns Naruto to take care of the kid until he gets his memory back. What was this kid doing outside of Konoha and why can't he remember anything?

Naruto and Menma manage to get Tsunade to let them go find Menma's memories. However, they are forced to go with Neji and Tenten guarding them. On the way, they come across a burned-down village. There, they greet the villagers and ask them what happened. Unfortunately, the villagers aren't too happy to see them.

Ran wants to kill Menma, upon seeing the mark on his arm, but Neji stands in the way, saying it would be unfair to kill a criminal without any memories of his crimes. Ran finally agrees and performs surgery on Menma, saving his life, but the villagers aren’t as happy. Are they prepared for when foreign shinobi group comes for a second attack?

A Sand shinobi, Matsuri, has been abducted by a mysterious ninja. In order to bring them bring back, Gaara must accept the mystery ninja's challenge. Can Naruto prevent this challenge ending in catastraphe?

The rogue ninjas continue running as Gaara, Temari, and Kankuro chase. At the same time, Shino, Hinata, and Neji are using their abilities to find the location of the Shitenshounnin. Temari encounters the first of the members (a woman that uses swords to produce wind) and leaves Gaara and Kankuro to chase after the other three members. Shortly after, Kankuro encounters another ninja that uses a 3-bladed sword that can separate yet still be connected by a wire. Gaara leaves to chase that other two members. Gaara then finds himself a battle with a huge, robust man who has a spiked flail. The Shitenshonin prepare to kill Temari and Kankuro; however, Shikamaru saves Temari with his Shadow Imitation Technique, and Kiba saves Kankuro.

Shikamaru and Ino arrive to help to help out Temari against Kyaku, while Kiba and chouji are helping Konkuro fight against. However Naruto and lee find that Garra is doing O.K by himself. All seems to be going well and the gang seems to be winning. Shitenshounin unleashes an attack that shoots out a light beam which hits the others swords. This is when Nejii notices that they are forming a water barrier. The water effects Gaara as it destroys all his and ad weakens him, everyone else is O.K. Everyone resumes there fight with the Konoha and sand wining and Gaara continues after Matsuri. Everything seems to be going well but what is this ultimate weapon that is about to be released?

Even with his chakra so low, Gaara fights the Shitenshounin leader. When he fails and is trapped, Naruto arrives to try and rescue him. But when the leader of Takumi Village, Seimei, is revived, can Naruto save Gaara before Shukaku takes complete control of him?

The time has finally come! Now that Jiraiya's returned, Naruto says his goodbyes and prepares to leave Konoha to begin his training.