Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shisui and Naraku meet Nakada Shun, who hires them for an A-rank mission to escort a caravan to the Land of Wind.
• The mission is targeted by the Stone Ninja Village, which has been robbing Nakada Shun's shipments.
• The caravan departs with Shisui, Naraku, and Nakada Shun, aiming to reach the Land of Wind.

Character Developments

• Shisui demonstrates his keen observational skills and calm demeanor, identifying Nakada Shun as a ninja and testing Naraku's perceptiveness.
• Naraku shows maturity beyond his years, noticing the energy fluctuation in Nakada Shun and deducing his ninja status. He also suspects that the mission might be more complex than it seems.

Significant Themes

• The importance of experience and real combat in a ninja's growth (as Naraku thinks about the mission's value).
• The potential complexity and hidden aspects of missions (as Naraku suspects there's more to this mission than meets the eye).

Character Interactions

• Shisui and Naraku work together, with Shisui taking the lead in interacting with Nakada Shun and gathering mission details.
• Naraku looks up to Shisui, admiring his strength and experience (as seen in his thoughts about the Uzumaki Clan).
• Nakada Shun is respectful and grateful towards Shisui and Naraku, hiring them to protect his caravan.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The caravan travels without incident for two days.
• They approach a forest near the Land of Fire's border, where previous shipments were hijacked.
• Shisui and Naraku hide their Konoha identities before entering the forest.

Character Developments

• Naraku demonstrates maturity and responsibility, understanding the importance of mission experience and chakra control.
• Shisui shows wisdom and caution, prioritizing peace and avoiding unnecessary trouble.

Significant Themes

• The importance of mission experience and practical training for shinobi growth.
• The value of maintaining peace and avoiding conflict, even at the cost of hiding one's identity.

Character Interactions

• Shisui and Naraku work together, with Shisui acting as the mentor and Naraku as the eager apprentice.
• Nakada Shun shows respect and deference to Shisui and Naraku, while also harboring a hidden agenda.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shisui and Naraku's caravan is ambushed by a group led by Nomura, who has a personal grudge against Nakada Shun (Naraku's client).
• Shisui engages Nomura and his team, while Naraku fights off a group of chunin, including the talented Kawakami.
• Naraku uses the Shuriken Shadow Clone Technique to overwhelm Kawakami, demonstrating his strategic prowess and ruthlessness.

Character Developments

• Shisui showcases his exceptional speed, strength, and skill, proving himself to be a formidable opponent.
• Naraku reveals his ability to create shadow clones and uses them strategically in battle. He also demonstrates his understanding of the ninja world's cruelty and his willingness to be decisive.
• Kawakami, despite his talent and initial confidence, is overwhelmed by Naraku's tactics, highlighting the importance of experience and adaptability in battle.

Significant Themes

• The ruthlessness and cruelty of the ninja world.
• The importance of adaptability and strategy in combat.
• The clash of personal grudges and professional missions.

Character Interactions

• Shisui and Nomura's intense, personal battle, fueled by hatred and a desire to settle old scores.
• Naraku and Kawakami's one-sided battle, highlighting Naraku's tactical prowess and Kawakami's lack of experience.
• The dynamic between Naraku and his shadow clones, showcasing his ability to control and strategize with multiple bodies.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Naraku and Shisui engage in a fight against the Stone Ninja Village and their allies, including Nomura and Nakada Shun.
• Kawakami, a Chunin from the Stone Ninja Village, is severely injured or killed by Naraku.
• Naraku easily handles two Chunin, while Shisui toys with three opponents, including two Jonin.
• The feud between Nomura, Jiro, and Nakada Shun is revealed, with each side seeking revenge for past actions.

Character Developments

• Naraku demonstrates his strength and agility, suppressing his opponents with ease.
• Shisui shows mercy and restraint, not wanting to become a tool for someone else's revenge.
• Nakada Shun's hatred towards the Stone Ninja Village lessens, but his resentment towards Nomura remains.

Significant Themes

• The cycle of violence and revenge.
• The importance of peace and restraint in combat, as shown by Shisui.
• The gap in strength between the Stone Ninja Village and powerful ninjas like Naraku and Shisui.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and Shisui work together seamlessly, with Naraku handling the weaker opponents while Shisui deals with the stronger ones.
• Nomura and Jiro's past actions against Nakada Shun fuel the latter's desire for revenge.
• The members of the Stone Ninja Village are outmatched and struggle against their opponents.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Nomura, leader of Stone Ninja Village, challenges Nakada Shun to a duel to settle their feud.
• Nomura is defeated and killed by Shun, with Naraku and Shisui ensuring Shun's safety but not interfering directly.
• The remaining members of Stone Ninja Village leave, ending their feud with Nakada Shun.
• The caravan enters the Land of Wind, with Naraku noting the lax defenses.

Character Developments

• Nomura accepts responsibility for his past actions and challenges Shun to end the feud.
• Shun finds closure after avenging his son and decides not to pursue further revenge against Stone Ninja Village.
• Naraku reflects on the nature of the ninja world and the benefits of strength.

Significant Themes

• Revenge and Closure: Nomura and Shun's duel represents their desire for revenge and the closure they find in it.
• Strength and Power Dynamics: The ninja world's power dynamics are highlighted, with the strong revered and the weak preyed upon.

Character Interactions

• Nomura vs. Shun: Their duel represents the culmination of their long-standing feud.
• Naraku and Shisui: They observe the duel, ensuring Shun's safety but not interfering directly, as per their mission.
• Jiro and Nakada Shun: Jiro speaks on behalf of Stone Ninja Village, ending their feud with Shun.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter discusses the tragic fate of jinchūriki, using Gaara as an example, and reflects on Naruto and Kushina's current situation.
• Naraku and Shisui complete an A-rank mission, returning to Konoha after three days.
• The Third Hokage rewards them and learns about Naraku's strength from Shisui.
• Kakashi returns from a mission and is assigned another one, with Naraku as his teammate.

Character Developments

• Naraku: Shows concern for Naruto's well-being and understands the harsh treatment he faces due to his jinchūriki status. His strength is recognized as that of a Special Jonin.
• Third Hokage: Feels unease about Naraku's loyalty to Konoha, despite his impressive strength and family background. He assigns Kakashi and Naraku to work together, hoping it will foster a bond.

Significant Themes

• The tragic fate of jinchūriki and the consequences of using them as weapons.
• The importance of bonds and teamwork, as hinted by the Third Hokage pairing Kakashi and Naraku together.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and Shisui: Work together on a mission, with Shisui reporting Naraku's actions to the Third Hokage.
• Third Hokage and Kakashi: The Hokage assigns Kakashi a new mission and requests him to take Naraku along, hoping it will strengthen their bond.
• Naraku and Guy: They meet briefly, with Guy expressing excitement about potentially going on a mission together with Naraku.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Guy invites Naraku on a mission together, but Naraku declines.
• Naraku returns to the hospital and finds Shizune performing a check-up on Kushina, with Gamayan present.
• Naraku activates his Kagura Mind Eye and senses Kushina's and the Nine-Tails' chakra.
• Naraku attempts to enter Kushina's mental world using his Three-Tomoe Sharingan but fails.
• Naraku discovers that Root has been surveilling the hospital in his absence.
• Naraku decides to inform the Third Hokage about Root's activities.

Character Developments

• Naraku's Sharingan has not yet evolved to the Mangekyo level, limiting his ability to enter Kushina's mental world.
• Naraku's concern for Kushina's safety grows as he learns about Root's surveillance.
• The Third Hokage is shown to be focused on his duties, even in his leisure time.

Significant Themes

• The power struggle within Konoha, with Danzo's Root encroaching on the Third Hokage's territory.
• The importance of Naraku's relationship with Kushina, as he prioritizes her safety and well-being.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and Guy's interaction shows Guy's eagerness for a mission together, while Naraku remains focused on Kushina.
• Naraku and Shizune's interaction is brief but friendly, showing their comfortable rapport.
• Naraku's interaction with Gamayan is playful, highlighting their easy camaraderie.
• Naraku's decision to inform the Third Hokage about Root's activities suggests a growing trust in the Hokage's authority and a desire to protect Kushina.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Third Hokage sends an Anbu to infiltrate Sunagakure and monitor their jinchuriki's movements.
• Uzumaki Naraku informs the Third Hokage that Root has been approaching Kushina.
• The Third Hokage summons Danzo, leading to a heated argument about Root's involvement with Kushina.
• Danzo agrees to stop Root's interference with Kushina, but vows to challenge the Third Hokage's authority in the future.
• Naraku meets Kakashi, and they decide to go on a mission together.

Character Developments

• The Third Hokage demonstrates his concern for Konoha's safety and his authority as Hokage by sending an Anbu to Sunagakure and confronting Danzo.
• Danzo's ambition grows as he realizes the Nine-Tails is split between Kushina and Naruto, and he becomes more determined to challenge the Third Hokage's position.
• Naraku shows his loyalty to his family and concern for his sister's safety by informing the Third Hokage about Root's actions.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political intrigue within Konoha, particularly between the Third Hokage and Danzo.
• The threat posed by Tailed Beasts and the importance of monitoring them, as demonstrated by the Third Hokage's actions regarding Sunagakure's jinchuriki.
• The bonds between characters, such as the trust between Naraku and Kakashi, and the complex relationships between the Third Hokage, Danzo, and other Konoha ninjas.

Character Interactions

• The Third Hokage and the Anbu: The Hokage gives a mission to the Anbu, showing his trust in him and his commitment to Konoha's safety.
• The Third Hokage and Danzo: Their heated argument highlights the tension between them and their differing views on how to handle Konoha's affairs.
• Naraku and Kakashi: Their friendly interaction and decision to go on a mission together emphasizes their strong bond and mutual trust.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Naraku returns to the hospital to prepare for his mission, leaving Gamayan to guard Kushina.
• The mission involves escorting Fuyubana Koyuki, the daughter of the Land of Snow's Daimyo, to safety due to her father's fear of a coup by his brother, Fuyubana Dotō.
• Naraku and Kakashi travel to the Land of Snow, disguising themselves as commoners.
• They infiltrate the Daimyo's residence, locate Fuyubana Sosetsu, and arrange for Koyuki's departure to the Land of Artisans with Kakashi.
• Fuyubana Sosetsu accepts his likely demise and focuses on ensuring Koyuki's safety.

Character Developments

• Naraku: Shows strategic thinking by planning to use Rouga Nadare, the ninja who defeated Kakashi in the original timeline, to his advantage.
• Kakashi: Displays professionalism and cold efficiency in his mission, wearing his signature cat-faced mask.
• Fuyubana Sosetsu: Accepts his fate and prioritizes his daughter's safety, showing love and responsibility.
• Fuyubana Koyuki: A young child who senses her father's distress and is willing to leave with Kakashi for her safety.

Significant Themes

• The harsh environment of the Land of Snow, contrasting with Konoha.
• The political struggles within the Land of Snow, reflecting the power dynamics and regulations of the ninja world.
• The responsibility of a father and the love for one's child, as seen in Fuyubana Sosetsu's actions.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and Kakashi: Work together on the mission, with Naraku observing from the shadows while Kakashi interacts with the Daimyo and his daughter.
• Fuyubana Sosetsu and Fuyubana Koyuki: The father-daughter relationship is highlighted as they say their temporary goodbyes, with the father prioritizing his daughter's safety.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fuyubana Sosetsu entrusts his daughter, Koyuki, to Kakashi for safety.
• Fuyubana Dotō, Sosetsu's brother, arrives with intentions to seize the Daimyo position and the Hex Crystal, threatening Koyuki's life.
• Naraku, hidden, decides not to intervene due to Dotō's strength and the risk of exposure.
• Dotō kills Sosetsu and dispatches Rouga Nadare to intercept Koyuki.
• Kakashi knocks Koyuki unconscious for safety and waits at the agreed meeting point with Naraku, who hasn't arrived.

Character Developments

• Fuyubana Sosetsu shows his love and concern for his daughter, Koyuki, prioritizing her safety over his own.
• Fuyubana Dotō's resentment and desire for power drive him to commit fratricide.
• Kakashi demonstrates his protective nature and concern for his comrades, turning back to find Naraku after sensing something amiss.

Significant Themes

• Family bonds and love: Sosetsu's actions highlight the importance of family and his willingness to sacrifice for his daughter.
• Power and corruption: Dotō's actions illustrate how power can distort a person and lead them to commit heinous acts.
• Loyalty and camaraderie: Kakashi's actions show his loyalty to his comrades and his willingness to prioritize their safety over the mission.

Character Interactions

• Sosetsu entrusts Koyuki to Kakashi, showing trust in his abilities and desperation to protect his daughter.
• Dotō's interaction with Sosetsu reveals his resentment, hatred, and desire for power.
• Kakashi's interaction with Koyuki demonstrates his protective nature and concern for her safety.
• Kakashi's decision to turn back for Naraku shows his loyalty and concern for his comrade's well-being.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Kakashi encounters and defeats two Snow Ninja pursuers using his short blade and Ice Release jutsu.
• Naraku and Kakashi rendezvous, and they decide to move Fuyubana Koyuki quickly to avoid Fuyubana Dotō.
• Rouga Nadare, a Snow Ninja enforcer, blocks their path. Kakashi engages him while Naraku escapes with Koyuki.
• Rouga Nadare uses Ice Release: One-Horned White Whale, which Kakashi counters with his Chidori jutsu.

Character Developments

• Kakashi demonstrates his skill and prowess, defeating two Snow Ninjas and holding his own against Rouga Nadare.
• Naraku shows strategic thinking, prioritizing Koyuki's safety and trusting Kakashi to handle Rouga Nadare.
• Rouga Nadare reveals his strength and skill, using powerful Ice Release jutsu, but underestimates Kakashi initially.

Significant Themes

• Trust and teamwork: Naraku trusts Kakashi to handle Rouga Nadare while he focuses on protecting Koyuki.
• Power dynamics: Rouga Nadare underestimates Kakashi due to his age and Konoha's perceived decline, but Kakashi proves his strength.
• Genius and potential: Both Kakashi and Naraku are recognized as Konoha's geniuses, hinting at their future growth.

Character Interactions

• Kakashi and Naraku work together, with Kakashi engaging Rouga Nadare while Naraku escapes with Koyuki.
• Rouga Nadare underestimates Kakashi and Naraku due to their age and Konoha's perceived decline, leading to a tense confrontation.
• Kakashi and Rouga Nadare engage in a fierce battle, showcasing their skills and jutsu.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Kakashi stalls Rouga Nadare to give Naraku time to escape.
• Kakashi uses the Sharingan to copy Rouga Nadare's Ice Release techniques.
• Kakashi and Rouga Nadare engage in a fierce battle.
• Kakashi uses Chidori to break through Rouga Nadare's attacks.
• Rouga Nadare uses Snow Tiger Pounce to wear Kakashi down.

Character Developments

• Kakashi's chakra reserves are nearly depleted due to the constant activation of the Sharingan.
• Kakashi realizes his chakra limitations and the need to retreat.

Significant Themes

• The importance of chakra management and control in battle.
• The strategic use of stalling and retreat in combat.

Character Interactions

• Kakashi and Rouga Nadare's battle showcases their respective skills and strategies.
• Kakashi's concern for Naraku's safety drives his actions.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Naraku takes Fuyubana Koyuki to a hidden cave while Kakashi faces Rouga Nadare.
• Kakashi uses Chidori Current to defend against Rouga Nadare's attacks.
• Naraku and Kakashi reunite and return to the cave, leaving a shadow clone to mislead Rouga Nadare.
• They decide to restock on supplies in a small town before continuing to the Land of Artisans.

Character Developments

• Kakashi's Sharingan is shown to be a hindrance due to his lack of Uchiha blood, causing his strength to stagnate.
• Naraku wants to help Kakashi resolve his Sharingan issue.
• Fuyubana Koyuki understands her situation and asks about returning to the Land of Snow.

Significant Themes

• The drawbacks of the Sharingan when not backed by Uchiha blood.
• The responsibility of protecting and caring for the innocent (Fuyubana Koyuki).
• The importance of rest and resupply during long journeys.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and Kakashi work together to rescue Fuyubana Koyuki and evade Rouga Nadare.
• Naraku comforts Fuyubana Koyuki and promises to take her back to the Land of Snow when she grows up.
• Kakashi and Rouga Nadare engage in a fierce battle, with Kakashi using his Chidori Current to defend against Rouga Nadare's powerful attacks.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Naraku, Kakashi, and Fuyubana Koyuki return to Konoha after successfully completing their mission.
• Naraku and Kakashi secretly visit a secluded cave near Konoha.
• Naraku demonstrates and teaches Kakashi the Four Symbols Seal, a technique to temporarily seal and unseal the Sharingan.

Character Developments

• Kakashi decides to accept Naraku's suggestion to seal his Sharingan when not in combat, acknowledging the burden of the Sharingan and the need for great strength to protect what he holds dear.
• Naraku, as a master of sealing arts, demonstrates his expertise in teaching Kakashi the Four Symbols Seal.

Significant Themes

• The burden of power and the need for self-control, as seen in Kakashi's decision to seal his Sharingan.
• The importance of trust and understanding between allies, as shown in Naraku's willingness to teach Kakashi a powerful technique.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and Kakashi display a deep level of trust and understanding, working together to master the Four Symbols Seal.
• Kakashi's internal struggle and eventual decision to seal his Sharingan reflect his growth and maturity as a character.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Kakashi completes a mission and reports to the Third Hokage.
• Naruto returns from his mission, exhausted, and goes straight to the hospital to see Kushina.
• Kakashi and Guy have a sparring match, with Kakashi initially trying to flee but eventually engaging in a serious duel.
• Kakashi uses his enhanced Sharingan powers, including the Chidori Current, against Guy.
• Guy uses the Eight Inner Gates to keep up with Kakashi's increased power.
• They fight until dusk, both exhausted but invigorated.

Character Developments

• Kakashi discovers his newfound power and confidence with his enhanced Sharingan.
• Guy shows his determination and skill by keeping up with Kakashi's increased power using the Eight Inner Gates.

Significant Themes

• The growth and discovery of one's own power and potential.
• The bond and rivalry between Kakashi and Guy, pushing each other to improve.

Character Interactions

• Kakashi and Guy's rivalry and mutual respect are highlighted as they engage in a serious sparring match, pushing each other to their limits.
• Kakashi's internal struggle with his new powers and his desire to test them is revealed through his initial attempt to flee from Guy and his eventual decision to engage in a real duel.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Naraku visits Kushina in the hospital and finds no change in her condition.
• Naraku goes to Ichiraku Ramen for breakfast and runs into Danzo's Root planning to assassinate the Third Hokage during his visit to the Daimyo Palace to sign succession documents.
• The Third Hokage asks Naraku to act as his guard during the trip.

Character Developments

• Naraku shows concern for Kushina's well-being and patience in her recovery.
• The Third Hokage demonstrates trust in Naraku's abilities by asking him to be his guard.
• Danzo's obsession with power and control grows, leading him to plot against the Third Hokage.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for power and control within Konoha, represented by Danzo's actions.
• The importance of trust and loyalty, shown through the Third Hokage's faith in Naraku.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and Teuchi (Ichiraku Ramen shop owner) share a friendly exchange.
• Naraku and the Third Hokage have a brief but significant conversation regarding the upcoming mission.
• Danzo and Orochimaru discuss plans for the assassination attempt, highlighting their alliance despite their differing goals.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Naraku agrees to be the Third Hokage's bodyguard on the way to the Daimyo Palace.
• The group is ambushed by Root members, including Yamato, who uses Wood Release.
• Naraku defeats Yamato and spares his life.
• The Third Hokage and Naraku proceed to the Daimyo Palace, leaving Yamato in Naraku's care.

Character Developments

• The Third Hokage remains confident in his strength and prioritizes the village's needs.
• Yamato struggles with his mission to assassinate the Hokage but ultimately accepts his capture.
• Naraku demonstrates his power and mercy, showing interest in Wood Release and considering Yamato's future role in the village.

Significant Themes

• The importance of Wood Release to Konoha and the village's future.
• The struggle between loyalty to the village and personal beliefs or orders.
• The power dynamics within Konoha and the ninja world.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and the Third Hokage work together to protect the Hokage and complete the mission.
• Naraku and Yamato engage in combat, with Naraku ultimately showing mercy and considering Yamato's potential future role.
• The Third Hokage and Yamato have a tense encounter, with the Hokage recognizing Yamato's Wood Release and understanding its significance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Naraku accompanies the Third Hokage and Yamato back to Konoha.
• Danzo confronts the Third Hokage, accusing him of responsibility for Orochimaru's actions.
• The Third Hokage orders Danzo to release Yamato from the Cursed Tongue Eradication Seal.
• Yamato is assigned to Naraku's Anbu squad, and Naraku is promoted to squad leader.
• Naraku visits Kakashi's residence but finds him absent.
• Anko is seen buying dango, reminding Naraku of Orochimaru.

Character Developments

• Yamato is freed from Danzo's control and joins the Anbu.
• Naraku is promoted to Anbu squad leader but shows little interest in his new position.
• Danzo's ambition and disrespect towards the Third Hokage become more apparent.
• The Third Hokage demonstrates his authority and wisdom in handling the situation with Yamato and Danzo.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political intrigue within Konoha, particularly between Danzo and the Third Hokage.
• The consequences of Orochimaru's actions on the village and its inhabitants.
• Naraku's growing interest in Orochimaru's abilities and his eventual confrontation with the Otsutsuki.

Character Interactions

• The Third Hokage and Danzo have a tense confrontation regarding Yamato and Orochimaru's actions.
• Naraku and the Third Hokage travel back to Konoha together, with Naraku expressing discomfort around the Hokage.
• Naraku visits Kakashi's residence but finds him absent, showing their close relationship.
• Anko's appearance reminds Naraku of Orochimaru, hinting at their future interaction.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Orochimaru's defection from Konoha is revealed.
• The Third Hokage orders the Anbu to pursue Orochimaru.
• Naraku, now an Anbu captain, is assigned to the mission.

Character Developments

• Orochimaru's ambition and disregard for Konoha's values are further emphasized.
• The Third Hokage shows regret and hesitation in dealing with Orochimaru but ultimately orders his pursuit.
• Naraku maintains his calm and strategic demeanor, understanding the true nature of the situation.

Significant Themes

• Betrayal and loyalty: Orochimaru's defection highlights the theme of betrayal, while the Anbu's unwavering loyalty to the Hokage is emphasized.
• Power dynamics: The struggle between the Third Hokage and Orochimaru showcases the power dynamics within Konoha and the consequences of defying authority.

Character Interactions

• Orochimaru and the Third Hokage: Their interaction reveals the tension between them, with Orochimaru's disregard for Konoha's values clashing with the Third Hokage's principles.
• Naraku and Yamato: Naraku's calm and strategic mindset contrasts with Yamato's unwavering loyalty and eagerness to carry out the Hokage's orders.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Naraku and Yamato are tasked with finding Orochimaru.
• They encounter Orochimaru in the forest outside Konoha.
• Naraku senses Orochimaru's presence and stops, revealing him.
• Orochimaru reveals he's been waiting for Naraku to test his strength.
• Yamato faints due to Orochimaru's pressure.
• Naraku uses Adamantine Sealing Chains, which Orochimaru easily breaks.
• Naraku uses Fire Style: Great Fireball Technique, which Orochimaru disperses with Wind Style: Great Breakthrough.
• Naraku uses Ninja Art: Needle Jizo to protect himself from Orochimaru's wind.

Character Developments

• Naraku shows maturity and caution, understanding the threat Orochimaru poses.
• Yamato demonstrates bravery but underestimates Orochimaru's power.
• Orochimaru shows interest in Naraku's growth and power.

Significant Themes

• The power gap between Kage-level experts and Jonin is emphasized.
• The consequences of underestimating opponents are shown through Yamato's actions.
• Naraku's unique chakra control and techniques are highlighted.

Character Interactions

• Naraku and Orochimaru acknowledge their past as students of Jiraiya.
• Naraku protects Yamato by pulling him back and engaging Orochimaru.
• Orochimaru shows no mercy towards Naraku, viewing him as a worthy opponent.