Chapter 144 tracks Itachi's return to Konoha to seize Naruto during the Search for Tsunade, as both Sasuke and the traveling Jiraiya remain unaware of how close the danger has drawn.
Main Characters (5)
Summary
Curious why Jiraiya was so eager to hand him a new jutsu, Naruto guesses he must possess some rare gift, but the Sannin explains the truth is simpler: the boy reminds him of the Fourth Hokage. Back in the village, Sasuke keeps grinding through training, driving himself to reach the level Naruto showed against Gaara so he will be ready when he finally faces his brother. Dropping in on Kakashi, he finds him collapsed and learns that Itachi laid him low, having come back to Konoha hunting Naruto. Sasuke sets off after him, catching the trail in hopes of reaching Itachi before Itachi reaches its prey.
Miles outside the village, Jiraiya and Naruto stop at a motel. When a woman catches Jiraiya's eye, he packs Naruto off to their room so he can make his move. A knock soon follows, and Naruto, assuming his mentor was already turned away, swings the door open only to come face to face with Itachi.
Key Events
Jiraiya reveals Naruto reminds him of the Fourth Hokage. Sasuke discovers Kakashi defeated and learns Itachi has returned to Konoha to capture Naruto, then gives chase. Jiraiya and Naruto lodge at a nearby motel, and Naruto opens the door to find Itachi waiting.
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Notes
The chapter is part of the Search for Tsunade arc and marks the lead-in to Itachi's first on-panel confrontation with Naruto, while reinforcing Sasuke's obsessive pursuit of strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens in the Naruto chapter "Pursuers"?
"Pursuers" (chapter 144) follows Itachi Uchiha as he returns to Konoha to capture Naruto Uzumaki, while Sasuke discovers Kakashi defeated and races to intercept him. Naruto and Jiraiya, traveling during the Search for Tsunade, stop at a motel, and Naruto opens the door to find Itachi standing there.
Why does Sasuke chase after Itachi in "Pursuers"?
In "Pursuers," Sasuke finds Kakashi Hatake collapsed and learns that Itachi struck him down while returning to Konoha to hunt Naruto. Determined to reach Itachi before Naruto does, Sasuke sets off in pursuit.
What does Jiraiya tell Naruto in "Pursuers"?
In "Pursuers," Jiraiya tells Naruto that he does not possess some special gift, but that Naruto simply reminds him of the Fourth Hokage. This comment comes after Naruto questions why Jiraiya was so eager to teach him a new jutsu.
Who shows up at the motel door in "Pursuers"?
In "Pursuers," Naruto opens the motel door expecting Jiraiya, who had sent him away to pursue a woman, and instead comes face to face with Itachi Uchiha.
What story arc is "Pursuers" part of?
"Pursuers" is chapter 144 of the Naruto manga and belongs to the Search for Tsunade arc, serving as the lead in to Itachi's first direct confrontation with Naruto.
Sources & Information
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View on FandomThis content is original writing by Daddy Jim Headquarters based on the Naruto anime series, manga, and official materials. Episode and chapter references are cited where applicable.
Rights holders
- Created byMasashi Kishimoto
- Published byShueisha
- Animated byStudio Pierrot
All rights belong to their respective owners.
Character and scene imagery on this site is original artwork by Daddy Jim Headquarters, not screenshots or licensed imagery. Official cover art is used on three types of pages for editorial commentary:
- Movie pages: theatrical posters and key visuals, credited to Studio Pierrot and Toho.
- Game pages: official box art for the Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm games, credited to Bandai Namco.
- Manga chapter pages: Jump Comics volume covers, credited to Shueisha and Masashi Kishimoto.
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