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The Snake and…

Manga ChapterCh. 344

Sasuke declares he has outgrown his teacher and refuses to become Orochimaru's next vessel. Rather than surrender, the Sannin sheds his human shell to reveal the monstrous white serpent beneath.

Volume: 38
Japanese Release Date: March 19, 2007
Main Characters (1): Orochimaru
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Summary

Sasuke informs Orochimaru that nothing remains for the Sannin to teach him, since he has already surpassed his mentor in strength. Beyond that, he flatly rejects the notion of handing over his body and his Sharingan to a man so desperate to keep cheating death.

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Key Events

When Sasuke moves in to end Orochimaru for good, the Sannin casts off his current form and exposes his real shape, an enormous pale snake. In that state he lunges at Sasuke, set on seizing the boy's body through sheer force.

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Notes

Sasuke meets the assault by unleashing the second stage of his Cursed Seal of Heaven. The chapter belongs to the Itachi Pursuit Mission arc and marks the decisive break between Sasuke and Orochimaru.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the snake enemy in Naruto?

In The Snake and…, Orochimaru is revealed as the snake enemy, shedding his human form into a giant white snake after Sasuke refuses to become his next vessel.

Why does Sasuke refuse to become Orochimaru's next vessel?

Sasuke declares he has already surpassed his teacher in strength and rejects handing over his body and Sharingan to a man desperate to keep cheating death.

What does Orochimaru do when Sasuke moves to kill him?

Orochimaru sheds his current form and exposes his true shape, an enormous pale snake, then lunges at Sasuke to seize his body by force.

How does Sasuke respond to Orochimaru's serpent attack?

Sasuke meets the assault by unleashing the second stage of his Cursed Seal of Heaven.

What arc does The Snake and… belong to?

The chapter is part of the Itachi Pursuit Mission arc and marks the decisive break between Sasuke and Orochimaru.

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This content is original writing by Daddy Jim Anime based on the Naruto anime series, manga, and official materials. Episode and chapter references are cited where applicable.

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