Naruto Vol. 16

Naruto and Gaara make one final attack despite being almost completely depleted. Naruto prevails and explains that his friends rescued him from the loneliness that once defined his life. Unable to understand Naruto’s selflessness but visibly affected by it, Gaara withdraws with Temari and Kankurō, apologizing to his siblings for the first time.

Within Konoha, the Third Hokage accepts that he cannot fully seal Orochimaru’s soul. Instead, he removes the spiritual portions of Orochimaru’s arms, taking away his ability to form hand signs and use most ninjutsu. The Third dies after entrusting the village to the generations that follow him. Orochimaru orders a retreat, ending the invasion, and Konoha holds a funeral for its fallen leader and other casualties.

As village officials consider candidates for the Fifth Hokage, Jiraiya recommends Tsunade and leaves with Naruto to find her. Meanwhile, Itachi and Kisame Hoshigaki, members of the Akatsuki, infiltrate Konoha while searching for Naruto. Asuma Sarutobi, Kurenai Yūhi, and Kakashi confront them, but Itachi traps Kakashi within Tsukuyomi and subjects him to prolonged psychological torture in an instant. Before losing consciousness, Kakashi learns that the intruders intend to capture Naruto.