Naruto Vol. 23

Kiba's battle leaves the retrieval squad scattered, allowing Tayuya, Kimimaro, and the remaining Sound ninja to continue escorting Sasuke. Shikamaru attempts to intercept them but is overwhelmed until unexpected allies from the Hidden Sand Village arrive. Acting on Tsunade's request, Temari, Kankurō, and Gaara each take responsibility for one battlefield.

Temari defeats Tayuya with a devastating wind technique, while Kankurō overcomes Sakon and Ukon using the poison mechanisms concealed within Karasu. Gaara rescues Rock Lee from Kimimaro, allowing Naruto to continue chasing Sasuke without interruption. Lee briefly joins the fight after recovering from surgery, but Kimimaro's extraordinary skeletal abilities prove overwhelming.

Naruto finally catches Sasuke after the latter leaves Kimimaro behind. The two former teammates arrive at the Valley of the End, where Sasuke declares that defeating Naruto is the final step toward severing his remaining emotional attachment to Konoha. Their long-anticipated confrontation begins beneath the towering statues of Hashirama Senju and Madara Uchiha.