Konohamaru, the grandson of Leaf Village's Third Hokage, shows up at the Chunin Exam site. He comes along with Moegi and Udon to cover the events for the Ninja Academy's school newspaper. Konohamaru looks up to Naruto like an older brother and through interviews with the characters, recaps their adventures thus far.

Naruto and Gaara continue their fight. Naruto begins to get an advantage, and Gaara transforms into the final form of Shukaku of the Sand. As he begins to put the squeeze on Naruto, Naruto summons Gamabunta Oyabun, and his comeback begins. Once again, Naruto begins to get an advantage, but Gaara casts the technique of fake sleep, releasing the full power of Shukaku. Now that the demon is free, what will Naruto do?

As Sasuke squares off against Naruto, he reflects on his past when he was neglected by both his stern father and Itachi, his brooding older brother.

Naruto is having trouble with the two brothers and Iruka is having his share of difficulties with Mizuki! Iruka struggles to try and get the old Mizuki back but he doesn't have much success.... Meanwhile, when things are looking bleak for Naruto, can 3 friendly Ninja save the day?

Gai is trapped inside a fortress made of practice posts. Yagura appears but is he there to help or to hinder? Naruto, Neji and Tenten show up to try and rescue Gai, but will it be too much for them to handle on their own?