Episodes 1 & 2: Homecoming & Akatsuki makes its move
Naruto Uzumaki returns to his village of Konoha after a two-and-a-half-year training journey with Jiraiya. He is reintroduced to his peers, who have advanced at least to Chunin rank, unlike Naruto who is still a Genin. Elsewhere, two members of the organization Akatsuki head towards the village of Sunagakure to capture Gaara, who has since become the Kazekage, the village leader.
Jiraiya tells Kakashi Hatake that Akatsuki’s plan to collect the tailed beasts is underway. Because of the Demon Fox inside him, Naruto is in danger any time he leaves the village, so Jiraiya relinquishes Naruto’s training to Kakashi, who can ensure his safety. Kakashi offers to give Naruto and Sakura a test to see how far they have improved. Meanwhile, the Akatsuki members Deidara and Sasori arrive at the entrance of the Sunagakure. They discover that Yura, their sleeper agent, has already cleared the guards.