Ch. 121The Price
Key Plot Points and Events
- The Konoha group faces Sasori of the Red Sands and Deidara, who use the Third Kazekage's human puppet and Iron Sand Technique.
- Hyuga Hiashi devises a plan to take down Deidara, with Mizuki providing cover and Kurenai using genjutsu.
- Mizuki uses Shadow Clones and explosive tags to create an opening for Hyuga Hiashi to strike Deidara.
- Hyuga Hiashi successfully seals Deidara's chakra with the Eight Trigrams—Vacuum Palm.
- Kurenai Yuhi is severely wounded by Sasori of the Red Sands' Iron Sand Drizzle while outside the smoke's cover.
Character Developments
- Mizuki regains some combat power and uses his knowledge of explosive tags effectively.
- Hyuga Hiashi demonstrates strategic thinking and powerful Gentle Fist techniques.
- Kurenai Yuhi's genjutsu skills are shown, but she is severely injured due to a lack of defense.
Significant Themes
- The importance of strategy and teamwork in battle.
- The danger of underestimating enemies and the need for constant vigilance.
- The consequences of relying too heavily on a single ability or technique.
Character Interactions
- Mizuki, Hyuga Hiashi, and Kurenai Yuhi work together to take down Deidara.
- Mizuki shows concern for Kurenai Yuhi's safety and tries to rescue her.
- Sasori of the Red Sands adapts to Mizuki's strategies and counterattacks, wounding Kurenai Yuhi.