Chapter 238 checks in on the whole cast as one chapter of their lives closes. Each young ninja turns toward training and growth while Naruto sets out for years of study, and Akatsuki quietly speeds up its schemes.
Summary
Sasuke reaches Orochimaru's hideout and states plainly that power is the only thing he cares about. Back in Konoha, Sakura races ahead in her medical ninja studies, Kiba fills Shino in on the mission he had to sit out, and Neji works with his uncle to close the blind spot in his Byakugan. Hinata brings tea, and Neji asks if she intends to see Naruto off before he leaves to train.
Key Events
Kiba and Shino arrive, and Kiba embarrasses Hinata by recounting how she fainted at the sight of Naruto wrapped in bandages. Chōji, his stomach recovered, celebrates with a large meal but voices his eagerness to begin training, while Lee pushes himself without pause. Shikamaru bids farewell to the three Sand siblings as they depart the village. Naruto shares a meal with Iruka before heading off for a three-year journey of training under Jiraiya, and Hinata watches him leave, pledging to grow stronger herself. Far away, the members of Akatsuki convene and agree to hasten their plans.
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Notes
Published in late 2004, this chapter 238 belongs to Volume 27 within the Sasuke Recovery Mission. It serves as a transitional close, dispersing the cast toward their individual growth ahead of the time skip. Viz shortened its title to Departure!!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens in Departure in Naruto?
In chapter 238, "The Day of Departure!!", Sasuke arrives at Orochimaru's hideout seeking power while the rest of the cast in Konoha pursues individual training, and Naruto shares a final meal with Iruka before leaving for three years of training under Jiraiya.
Why does Naruto leave the village in this chapter?
Naruto departs for a three-year training journey under Jiraiya, watched off by Hinata, who pledges to grow stronger while he is gone.
What does Sasuke tell Orochimaru when he arrives at his hideout?
Sasuke states plainly to Orochimaru that power is the only thing he cares about.
What is Neji doing to improve his Byakugan in this chapter?
Neji works together with his uncle to close the blind spot in his Byakugan's field of vision.
What volume is "The Day of Departure!!" from?
This chapter is collected in Volume 27 within the Sasuke Recovery Mission, published in late 2004, and Viz shortened its English title to "Departure!!"
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
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