Naruto and Jiraiya finally locate the legendary Tsunade, one of the legendary Sannin, in episode 89 of the Naruto anime, titled “The Anguish of Tsunade.” This pivotal episode marks the culmination of a long journey filled with anticipation, struggle, and the high stakes of choosing the next Hokage.
The Road to Reuniting with Tsunade
Naruto’s initial goal in embarking on this journey with Jiraiya was to further his training and master the Rasengan. However, the overarching objective was far grander: to convince Tsunade to return to Konoha and accept the mantle of Fifth Hokage. Following Hiruzen Sarutobi’s tragic death during the Konoha Crush, the village desperately needed a strong and capable leader.
The path to Tsunade was fraught with peril. The duo, along with Shizune, encountered Orochimaru, another of the legendary Sannin, and his loyal henchman Kabuto Yakushi. This confrontation set the stage for intense battles and revealed Tsunade’s initial reluctance to accept the Hokage position. The encounter also highlighted the psychological scars she carried due to past traumas.
Episode 89: The Climactic Encounter
Episode 89 serves as the crux of the search. After tracking Tsunade’s movements and facing numerous obstacles, Naruto and Jiraiya finally confront her. The episode delves into Tsunade’s backstory, specifically the loss of her brother Nawaki and her lover Dan, both of whom aspired to become Hokage. This profound grief contributed to her cynicism and reluctance to take on such a heavy responsibility.
The episode also features a crucial fight sequence against Kabuto, where Naruto demonstrates his unwavering determination and begins to show glimpses of his progress in mastering the Rasengan, though it is incomplete. It is Naruto’s resilience and unwavering belief in the ideals of the Hokage that begins to chip away at Tsunade’s hardened exterior.
The Significance of Tsunade’s Return
Tsunade’s eventual decision to accept the Hokage position is a turning point in the series. Her expertise in medical ninjutsu, combined with her formidable strength and strategic acumen, makes her an invaluable asset to Konoha. She brings stability and a renewed sense of hope to the village, which is still reeling from the Konoha Crush.
Furthermore, her return significantly impacts Naruto’s development. Tsunade becomes a mentor figure, guiding him and pushing him to reach his full potential. She recognizes his inherent talent and his unwavering spirit, and she nurtures his growth as a ninja and as a person.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tsunade’s Recruitment
Here are 12 frequently asked questions regarding Naruto and Jiraiya’s mission to find and convince Tsunade to become the Fifth Hokage:
FAQ 1: Why Was Tsunade the First Choice for Hokage?
Tsunade was considered the primary candidate for the Hokage position due to her lineage (being the granddaughter of Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage) and her unparalleled skills as a medical ninja. More importantly, she was one of the legendary Sannin, possessing immense power and battle experience. Her tactical mind was another compelling reason. Konoha needed a powerful, experienced, and knowledgeable leader, and Tsunade fit the bill perfectly.
FAQ 2: What Happened to the Other Sannin, Orochimaru?
Orochimaru had betrayed Konoha long before the death of the Third Hokage and became a rogue ninja obsessed with immortality. He posed a significant threat to the village and was actively seeking to destroy it. This is why finding Tsunade was so critical; she was the only one who could reliably counter Orochimaru’s power.
FAQ 3: Why Was Tsunade Reluctant to Become Hokage?
Tsunade’s reluctance stemmed from the traumatic loss of her brother and lover, both of whom aspired to be Hokage but died tragically. These experiences led her to believe that the title of Hokage brought only pain and suffering. She was cynical about the role and didn’t want to shoulder the responsibility of leading Konoha, fearing another similar loss.
FAQ 4: How Did Naruto Influence Tsunade’s Decision?
Naruto’s unwavering determination to protect his friends and his village, coupled with his burgeoning talent, reminded Tsunade of her brother Nawaki. His sheer grit and refusal to give up, even when faced with overwhelming odds, gradually eroded her cynicism and inspired her to reconsider her stance.
FAQ 5: What Role Did Shizune Play in the Search for Tsunade?
Shizune was Tsunade’s apprentice and accompanied her on her travels. She served as a caretaker and confidante, offering support and advice. Shizune also acted as a bridge between Tsunade and Jiraiya/Naruto, conveying messages and helping to facilitate communication. Her medical skills also proved valuable during their journey.
FAQ 6: What Were Orochimaru’s Plans for Tsunade?
Orochimaru sought Tsunade’s medical expertise to heal his arms, which were damaged during his fight with the Third Hokage. In exchange for her help, he offered to revive her deceased brother and lover. This was a manipulative tactic to exploit her emotional vulnerabilities and gain her loyalty.
FAQ 7: What Was the Significance of Tsunade’s Gambling Addiction?
Tsunade’s gambling addiction served as a coping mechanism for her grief and trauma. It represented her attempt to control fate and escape the pain of her past. However, her persistent bad luck was also symbolic of her inner turmoil and self-doubt.
FAQ 8: How Did Jiraiya Help Convince Tsunade?
Jiraiya, as Tsunade’s former teammate, played a crucial role in appealing to her sense of duty and reminding her of her connection to Konoha. He emphasized the village’s need for her leadership and highlighted the importance of protecting the next generation. He also knew how to push her buttons and challenge her beliefs, ultimately forcing her to confront her fears.
FAQ 9: What Powers Does Tsunade Possess as a Ninja?
Tsunade is renowned for her mastery of medical ninjutsu, enabling her to heal virtually any injury. She also possesses immense strength, capable of shattering mountains with a single punch, thanks to her Strength of a Hundred Seal. She is also a skilled strategist and tactician, capable of analyzing complex situations and devising effective plans.
FAQ 10: What Happens After Tsunade Becomes Hokage?
After accepting the Hokage position, Tsunade returns to Konoha and begins to rebuild the village. She implements new policies, strengthens the defenses, and focuses on training the next generation of ninja. She also continues to serve as a mentor to Naruto, helping him to develop his skills and prepare for future challenges.
FAQ 11: How Long Was Tsunade Hokage?
Tsunade served as the Fifth Hokage for approximately ten years, from shortly after the Konoha Crush to the Fourth Shinobi World War. She stepped down from the role following the war, passing the mantle to Kakashi Hatake.
FAQ 12: What Was the Impact of Tsunade’s Medical Expertise on the Ninja World?
Tsunade revolutionized medical ninjutsu, introducing new techniques and standards that significantly improved the survival rate of injured ninja. Her expertise saved countless lives and transformed the way medical ninjas were trained and utilized. Her contributions had a lasting impact on the entire ninja world. Her work in mitigating the effects of poison during the Fourth Shinobi World War was invaluable. The fact that she could heal almost any injury, even those deemed impossible to treat, shows the enormous impact she had.