192 pages; soft cover; black & white

Naruto and Shikamaru take off in Volume 22 to save Sasuke from becoming part of Orochimaru's ultimate master plan, leaving Neji to fend for himself against the sinister Kidomaru! Orochimaru's nefarious plans for Sasuke are revealed in Volume 23, and Naruto vows to save his friend. But first he must battle the mysterious Kimimaro, who has deadly past ties to the Sound Ninja Four! In Volume 24 Kankuro, Temari, and Gaara unexpectedly aid Konohagakure against the Sound Ninja. Could they have another purpose besides rekindling the old alliance between Leaf and Sand? Rating: T.