Ch. 381Ebizo's gift
Key plot points and events
- Gentō orders Yunyou and Mirai to stay inside while he protects their Mangekyō Sharingan from enemies.
- Sunagakure advisor Ebizo arrives unexpectedly. Gentō suspects he may be connected to Kara, but Ebizo says his visit is his own decision, not an official mission from either Kazekage.
- Temari enters, wary that Ebizo might use espionage or assassination tactics, but finds the meeting peaceful.
- Ebizo offers Gentō a gift: a sealed collection of five stone coffins containing the bodies of the First Tsuchikage, Ishikawa; the First and Second Raikage; and the First and Second Kazekage, Reto and Shamon.
- Gentō realizes his resurrection technique could turn the bodies into five Kage-level fighters, strengthening Hidden Xuan against the coming Ōtsutsuki threat. He is especially puzzled that Ebizo would surrender Shamon, the founder of his own teachings.
Character developments
- Gentō remains cautious and guarded, concealing what he knows and treating information as a strategic resource. He is pleased by the gift’s military value but suspicious of Ebizo’s motives.
- Ebizo presents himself as a frail, courteous old man, though Gentō recognizes that his reputation and puppet skills make him dangerous. His decision to hand over powerful historical figures suggests a significant change in his priorities—or an unknown plan.
- Temari’s initial anxiety reveals her distrust of Ebizo’s past methods; she relaxes once she sees he has not come to attack.
Significant themes
- Power and protection: Gentō seeks to shield Yunyou and Mirai while preparing for a major external threat.
- Information and mistrust: Gentō deliberately withholds information and questions the motives behind Ebizo’s visit.
- Legacy and sacrifice: Ebizo gives up the bodies of major leaders, including Shamon, whose legacy is tied to Ebizo’s own tradition.
- Old rivalries and shifting alliances: A former opponent of the Uchiha approaches Gentō with an apparently generous offer, complicating expectations of loyalty.
Character interactions
- Gentō and his children share a brief moment of mutual resolve before he arranges their protection.
- Gentō questions Ebizo diplomatically, while Ebizo responds respectfully and presents the coffins as a gift.
- Temari greets Ebizo politely but watches him with suspicion; Ebizo understands her concern and reassures her through his calm conduct.
- Gentō accepts the scroll but ends the meeting wondering what Ebizo truly wants.