Ep. 53: Orochimaru Intervenes to Save Sasuke While Danzo’s Betrayal Angers Tsunade
Aired on April 3, 2008
53
As Sasuke prepares to strike his former teammates, Orochimaru and Kabuto arrive to halt him. They persuade Sasuke to spare Naruto and Sakura, arguing that keeping them alive will weaken the Akatsuki. Naruto watches helplessly as Sasuke departs with Orochimaru, weeping over his failure to retrieve his friend. Sakura comforts him, promising another opportunity. Meanwhile, Tsunade learns of Danzo’s treason in leaking ANBU secrets to Orochimaru and becomes furious. In the ANBU Root base, Sai requests permission to stay with Team Kakashi and retain his name. Danzo reluctantly consents. Sai subsequently joins a mission, having come to view his teammates as genuine friends.
Episodes
- Ep. 49 · Yamato's team faces Kabuto before entering Orochimaru's hideout to locate Sasuke.
- Ep. 50 · Naruto collapses from exhaustion while Sai reflects on bonds before Orochimaru attacks
- Ep. 51 · Sai reveals his true intent to protect Sasuke's bonds and abandons his mission.
- Ep. 52 · Sasuke Attacks Naruto While Confronting the Nine-Tails Within His Mind
- Ep. 53 · Orochimaru Intervenes to Save Sasuke While Danzo’s Betrayal Angers Tsunade
- Ep. 54 · Naruto wakes from a nightmare while Sai attempts to forge friendships using library advice.
- Ep. 55 · Kakashi guides Naruto to discover his wind nature through shadow clone leaf-cutting training.
- Ep. 56 · Naruto trains with Asuma on wind techniques while enemies plot against the Leaf Village.
- Ep. 57 · Naruto encounters Sora at a hidden tomb near the Fire Temple