Ch. 101Brought Back a Snake to Use as an Ingredient
Chapter Summary
Key Plot Points and Events
- After the others leave Tsunade’s office, Tsunade reveals that she believes Naraku lied to protect Sasuke. However, she chooses not to expose him because Sasuke is the last surviving Uchiha and Naraku has taken responsibility for him.
- Naraku, Naruto, Sasuke, Kakashi, and Shikamaru go for ramen. Sasuke pays, signaling his willingness to accept Naraku’s guidance and support.
- Naruto then takes Sasuke to find Sakura, eager to reunite the former Team 7 members.
- Naraku privately confirms to Kakashi and Shikamaru that he protected Sasuke, explaining that he promised Itachi he would look after him. He warns that Sasuke will face consequences if he repeats his actions.
- Kakashi comments that Naraku’s defeat of Orochimaru will soon spread throughout the ninja world and elevate Naraku’s reputation to the level of the strongest village leaders.
- At home, Naraku reunites with Hinata, Yakumo, Shiro, Hanabi, and Kagari. They tease him about being away for two days, assuming he may have been spending time with women.
- Naraku reveals that he went after Orochimaru, defeated and killed him, and even brought back a giant snake as food. The girls are initially shocked and worried but are relieved by his confidence.
- Tsunade deliberately spreads the news of Orochimaru’s death. Konoha uses Naraku’s victory to restore its damaged reputation after Orochimaru’s attack and the Third Hokage’s death.
Character Development
- Naraku: Demonstrates loyalty, political awareness, and growing authority. He protects Sasuke because of his promise to Itachi but makes clear that Sasuke remains accountable for his behavior. His victory over Orochimaru establishes him as one of the shinobi world’s most powerful young ninja.
- Sasuke: Shows signs of accepting Naraku’s protection and guidance by returning to Konoha and paying for the group’s meal. His reunion with Sakura suggests the beginning of his reintegration into the village.
- Tsunade: Acts pragmatically, choosing to overlook Naraku’s deception for the sake of preserving the Uchiha line. She also uses Naraku’s achievement strategically to rebuild Konoha’s prestige.
- Kakashi: Recognizes that Naraku has surpassed the level of ordinary “genius ninja” and is now far beyond Kakashi’s own abilities. He appears to understand more about the hidden truth behind the Uchiha massacre.
- Shikamaru: Becomes aware that Sasuke’s situation and Itachi’s actions involve secrets far deeper than the official story suggests.
- Naruto: Is relieved and joyful after Sasuke’s return, revealing how deeply Sasuke’s defection affected him.
- Hinata, Yakumo, Shiro, Hanabi, and Kagari: Their playful teasing gives way to genuine concern when they learn Naraku confronted Orochimaru, highlighting their affection and emotional investment in him.
Significant Themes
- Loyalty and promises: Naraku’s decision to protect Sasuke stems from his promise to Itachi, showing how personal bonds can override political judgment.
- Truth versus official narratives: The chapter emphasizes that the public knows little about the Uchiha massacre, while village leaders and trusted shinobi possess hidden records and knowledge.
- Reputation and political power: Naraku’s victory is not merely a personal achievement; Tsunade uses it to repair Konoha’s standing among the other villages.
- Responsibility and redemption: Sasuke is given another chance, but Naraku makes clear that protection does not mean immunity from consequences.
- Family and emotional support: The scenes at Naraku’s home contrast the dangerous political world with the warmth, teasing, and concern of his close relationships.
Important Character Interactions
- Tsunade and Shizune: Discuss Naraku’s lie and Tsunade’s decision to tolerate it for Sasuke’s sake.
- Naraku and Sasuke: Their ramen outing and Sasuke’s payment suggest a developing mentor-student relationship.
- Naraku, Kakashi, and Shikamaru: Naraku confirms their suspicions about Sasuke, while also hinting at the deeper truth behind the Uchiha clan’s history.
- Naruto and Sasuke: Naruto immediately seeks Sakura after Sasuke’s return, showing his eagerness to restore their former team.
- Naraku and the girls at home: Their playful accusations turn into concern when Naraku reveals his battle with Orochimaru.
- Konoha and the wider ninja world: Through Tsunade’s announcement, Naraku’s personal victory becomes a major political event that elevates his status internationally.