This episode also serves as a thematic prelude to Naruto’s later confrontation with Obito and Madara. If Naruto can show compassion to reanimated corpses forced to kill him, he can show it to anyone. Naruto Episode 385: “Link to the Jinchuriki” is a masterclass in emotional shonen storytelling. It balances high-stakes action with profound sadness, and it elevates Naruto from a simple hero to a messianic figure of reconciliation. By the end, you won’t forget Yagura, Utakata, or the others—and that’s exactly the point. Final rating: 9.5/10 Best moment: Naruto’s tearful “I was almost broken” speech Best quote: “You are the link—the chain that becomes a bridge.” If you’re rewatching Naruto Shippuden , do not skip this episode. It is the heart of the “Power” arc and one of the finest standalone episodes in the entire series.
Yagura: “Tell the tailed beasts… we’re sorry. We couldn’t free them in life.” Naruto: “I’ll free them. Every last one. I promise.” Yagura (smiling): “Then you are the true link—the chain that becomes a bridge.” One by one, they fade away. Utakata’s bubbles float upward. Fū waves goodbye. Rōshi bows. Han gives a thumbs up. Yagura vanishes last, whispering, “Thank you, jinchuriki of the Nine-Tails.” Final Scene – The Aftermath Naruto stands alone in the crater, exhausted and tear-streaked. Yamato and the others arrive. Naruto says nothing for a long moment, then quietly: naruto episode 385
Kabuto has resurrected the corpses of deceased jinchuriki (specifically – the 4th Mizukage, Rōshi – 4-tails, Han – 5-tails, Utakata – 6-tails, Fū – 7-tails) and is using a modified version of the Impure World Reincarnation (Edo Tensei) to control them. He also holds a young boy named Muku captive. Muku is a special clone-like creation designed to host a massive amount of chakra. This episode also serves as a thematic prelude
“Let us repay your kindness, child.” It balances high-stakes action with profound sadness, and