After being sealed in a coffin for transport, Sasuke finally emerges. However, he is heavily influenced by the second level of his Cursed Seal and ignores Naruto's pleas to return to the village, choosing instead to flee further toward Orochimaru.
Naruto attempts to pursue Sasuke but is intercepted by Kimimaro, a powerful subordinate of Orochimaru who uses the Shikotsumyaku (Dead Bone Pulse) Kekkei Genkai. Despite using numerous shadow clones, Naruto is unable to land a significant blow. Naruto Episode 123
Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, Kimimaro, and Rock Lee Plot Summary After being sealed in a coffin for transport,
Naruto Episode 123 , titled (or "The Leaf's Blue Beast Appears!"), is a pivotal moment in the Sasuke Recovery Mission arc. This episode is famous for the surprise return of Rock Lee , who arrives just in time to save Naruto from Kimimaro. Despite using numerous shadow clones, Naruto is unable
The episode marks a transition in the mission from group combat to individual, high-stakes duels, emphasizing the growth and specialization of the Konoha Genin. Production Context
As Kimimaro prepares to kill Naruto, Rock Lee suddenly arrives and blocks the attack. Still recovering from major surgery performed by Tsunade, Lee insists on taking over the fight so Naruto can continue his pursuit of Sasuke.