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{{looking for|the character|chapter 584|Kabuto Yakushi (chapter)|Kabuto Yakushi}}
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{{looking for|the character|disambig=Kabuto Yakushi (disambiguation)}}
 
{{Infobox}}
 
{{Infobox}}
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{{translation|'''Kabuto Yakushi'''|薬師カブト|Yakushi Kabuto}} spent most of his life as a spy working for many different individuals, organisations, and countries. His natural talents in intelligence-gathering and [[Medical-nin|medicine]] attracted the attention of [[Orochimaru]] when he was younger, who made Kabuto his right-hand man. Although Kabuto learns much about the world under Orochimaru, he eventually decides that his life of serving others has prevented him from making an identity for himself. He thereafter seeks power and becomes a major factor in the [[Fourth Shinobi World War]], using his higher place in the world so that he can find where in it he belongs. After finally finding himself in the world, Kabuto returns to Konohagakure to run the [[Konoha Orphanage|orphanage]] there, helping others such as himself to find their own way.
{{translation|'''Kabuto Yakushi'''|薬師カブト|Yakushi Kabuto}} is a major antagonist of the series, who was first introduced as a [[Konohagakure]] [[genin]]. He was orphaned by war as a child and was found by [[Nonō Yakushi]] and raised in the [[Konoha Orphanage]]. After joining [[Root]], he served as a deep cover agent in different countries for several years before defecting and joining [[Orochimaru]], where he acted as his personal [[medic]], research assistant, and general right-hand-man. During the [[Fourth Shinobi World War]] after Orochimaru's sealing, Kabuto joined forces with [[Tobi]] and [[Akatsuki]].
 
   
 
== Background ==
 
== Background ==
[[File:Kid Kabuto2.png|thumb|left|Kabuto as a child with Nonō.]]
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[[File:Kabuto Injured.png|thumb|left|A young Kabuto developing amnesia from his injury.]]
Kabuto's earliest childhood memory is being found by Nonō on the outskirts of a destroyed village. Suffering from a head wound and amnesia, he had no recollection of his parents or his own identity. The nun treated his wounds with [[medical ninjutsu]] and brought him to the orphanage. Shy and reserved, Kabuto did not speak to anyone or thank the nun for her kindness, which led a fellow orphan, [[Urushi]], to question whether or not he had any manners, before slamming a helmet on Kabuto's head to protect his healing wound. When Urushi declared that his lack of a name was annoying, the nun decided to name him "Kabuto", after the helmet. Later that night, Kabuto felt guilty about not thanking the nun and got out of bed to find her, only to get in trouble with the other wards for being up past his curfew. When they took him to a clock to teach him the curfew time, it at first seemed that he was too young to tell time, but the nun recognised that he was squinting and lent him her glasses, allowing him to impress the other caretakers by correctly determining the time of the curfew despite his young age. Because the orphanage could not afford glasses for him, the woman let him keep hers, and Kabuto broke down in tears, repeatedly thanking her as she comforted him.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 582, pages 8-17</ref>
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Kabuto was found as a child by [[Nonō Yakushi]] on the outskirts of a city recently destroyed in a battle; he had suffered a head injury, leaving him with no memory of his name or past. Nonō treated his wound and brought him to the [[Konoha Orphanage]]. [[Urushi]], another orphan, placed a helmet on his head so he wouldn't be injured again, prompting Nonō to name him "Kabuto". Kabuto liked the name and left his bed that night so that he could thank her, unaware of the orphanage's strict schedule. When Nonō found him, she discovered that this was in part because he couldn't read a clock due to his poor eyesight. She gave him her glasses so that he could see, overwhelming Kabuto with thankfulness.<ref name="c582">''Naruto'' chapter 582, pages 8-17</ref>
   
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To earn money for the orphanage's operations, Nonō used her [[medical ninjutsu]] to treat injured [[shinobi]] of [[Konohagakure]]; Kabuto, having been taught medical ninjutsu by Nonō, would assist. Although the money helped, they still relied on direct funding from Konoha in order to get by. Aware of this fact, [[Danzō Shimura]] visited the orphanage one day threatening to withhold Konoha's funding if Nonō didn't turn one of the orphans over to his [[Root]] organisation. Kabuto, after eavesdropping on this conversation, volunteered against Nonō and Urushi's protests. Root trained Kabuto in espionage and over the years sent him to gain intel by, at different times, posing as a ninja of [[Kumo]], [[Kiri]], [[Suna]], and [[Iwa]]. While in Iwa, Kabuto's spying was discovered and an Iwa-nin cornered him. He was able to strike down his pursuer, but only afterwards discovered that it was Nonō, who was also working for Root.
Over the years, Kabuto would be taught various medical skills by Nonō, such that he was eventually able to assist her in healing shinobi and thus, earn money for the orphanage. It was here that he first met [[Orochimaru]] who asked him if he wanted to become a shinobi, stating that the role would suit him, but Kabuto declined. However, after eavesdropping on a conversation Nonō had with [[Danzō Shimura]] and hearing the latter's demand for an orphan in exchange for funding, Kabuto instead accepted the offer.
 
   
[[File:Kabuto Encounters Orochimaru.png|thumb|Kabuto re-encounters Orochimaru.]]
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{{imgRight|Kabuto and Orochimaru meet again.png|Orochimaru confronts Kabuto.}}
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Kabuto apologised profusely and tried to heal Nonō, but she didn't recognise his face, even when he told her his name. She died from her injuries and Kabuto was forced to flee before Nonō's backup found him. Once safe, Kabuto was disillusioned by what had happened, wondering who he was if even Nonō didn't know him. He was soon confronted by [[Orochimaru]],<ref name="c583"/> an underling of Danzō who'd taken an interest in Kabuto over the years. Orochimaru explained that Danzō had been giving Nonō falsified photographs of Kabuto so that she would no longer recognise him when they met. This in turn allowed Danzō to pit Nonō and Kabuto against each other and thus eliminate Root's two most effective, and consequently, knowledgeable spies. Assuming that Orochimaru planned to finish him off, Kabuto attacked him, distraught by the loss of both Nonō and the self-identification he'd acquired through her.
From this point onwards, he was tasked with infiltrating various hidden villages, including those of the [[Five Great Shinobi Countries]]. During one such assignment in [[Iwagakure]], he was forced to flee after his cover was blown and unwittingly attacked his "''mother''", Nonō, in the process. With her unable to recognise him even as he healed her injuries, Kabuto came to question his identity and purpose, when he was once again approached by Orochimaru.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 583, page 17</ref>
 
   
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[[File:Kabuto and Sasori.png|thumb|left|Kabuto meeting Sasori.]]
Orochimaru explained to him that his unfortunate encounter with Nonō was engineered by Danzō himself: having become an accomplished spy, Kabuto has become an asset too dangerous to handle for Root (and thus to be eliminated). Orochimaru also pointed out that as a spy for Konoha, (and after travelling to many countries), Kabuto already is losing track of his own true self due to not knowing where he came from and the constant changing of his identity to fulfil his role. Nonō, in turn, was double-crossed by Danzō into believing that they released Kabuto from holding and was living a civilian life, in exchange for assassinating another person (who is no other than the real Kabuto himself). Distraught by this information, Kabuto attacked Orochimaru but was stayed by the latter's offer of a new identity, as well as becoming his right-hand man in the [[Otogakure|the village he was about to found.]] In returning to Konohagakure, Orochimaru gives him a new cover: that he was found amongst the dead enemies after the [[Battle of Kikyō Pass]] by a [[Nonō Yakushi|captain]] of the [[Konoha Medic Corps]], and that captain brought him to Konoha and raised him as a son.<ref name=Ch584>''Naruto'' chapter 584, page 12</ref>
 
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Orochimaru survived the attack and suggested that Kabuto now try making a new identity for himself using whatever knowledge of the world he could acquire. Orochimaru offered to help him in this regard and invited him to help make a new village, [[Otogakure]], where individuality could thrive. Kabuto agreed and Orochimaru gave him a new backstory: that he was found by Nonō - a captain of Konoha's [[Medic Corps]] - after the [[Battle of Kikyō Pass]] and adopted as her son.<ref name="c584">''Naruto'' chapter 584, page 12</ref> With this backstory, Kabuto was able to become a [[genin]] of Konoha, which he used to enter the biannual [[Chūnin Exams]] so that he could gather information on his fellow participants for Orochimaru's use. Later, he was found by [[Akatsuki]] and was turned into one of [[Sasori]]'s [[Memory-Concealing Manipulative Sand Technique|sleeper agent]]s so he would spy on Orochimaru.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 290, page 14</ref> Shortly afterwards, Orochimaru realised the truth and freed him from this control, allowing Kabuto to effectively infiltrate the organisation for Orochimaru. When not spying, Kabuto helped Orochimaru with his experimentations and his studies of different Oto-nin's abilities. In the anime, Kabuto also helped Orochimaru find genetic samples for use in the [[Impure World Reincarnation]]<ref name="ship316">''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 316</ref> and also helped him escape from [[Itachi Uchiha]] after the latter's failed attempt to capture Itachi.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 456</ref>
   
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== Personality ==
He was later sent to serve as Orochimaru's spy to [[Sasori]] of [[Akatsuki]], who in turn set him to spy on Orochimaru by using [[Memory-Concealing Manipulative Sand Technique]] to transform him into his own sleeper agent. Orochimaru discovered this and released Sasori's control over Kabuto.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 290, page 14</ref> Kabuto has since used his expertise in spying for Orochimaru, playing the role of Sasori's servant to gain knowledge of Akatsuki's plans. Through his affiliation with Konoha, Kabuto was also able to acquire the rank of [[genin]] and enter the biannual Chūnin Exams, using the first two parts of the exam to gather information on his fellow participants for Orochimaru's use. Additionally, with the medical expertise taught to him by his adoptive parent and his high intelligence, Kabuto is able to carry out human experiments alongside Orochimaru, while at the same time increasing his own knowledge of the human body.
 
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At times, Kabuto can seem quite open, more than willing to approach people and always confident in his own words and actions.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 39</ref> By his own admission, he is an introvert who doesn't like to be looked at and who wants to stick to the background.<ref name="c579"/> He can be very critical of others, dismissing their personal desires and outlining all the flaws he perceives them to be making.<ref name="c167"/> To those he feels are deserving, he is nothing but polite, regarding them with deference,<ref name="c560"/> using the appropriate honourifics, and chastising those who don't do the same.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 238</ref> He can be cruel, preying on sensitive topics in order to rile someone up and punctuating his comments with sarcasm.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 165</ref> Other times he is kind, putting himself at risk<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 62</ref> and being helpful for no immediate benefit to himself.<ref name="c296"/>
   
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The many contradictions of Kabuto's personality are a result of his frequent role as a spy, having spent most of his life changing identities and loyalties in order to gather information for some organisation. Although he's been serving Orochimaru for the longest period of time, even Orochimaru isn't always sure what Kabuto's true feelings are: he trusts Kabuto implicitly, yet secretly suspects that Kabuto might intentionally undermine him.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 88</ref> When Kabuto begins working with [[Tobi]], Tobi is careful to be on guard with Kabuto and keep him on a short leash, aware that Kabuto does not always act for the reasons he claims to; even so, Kabuto is able to make himself simultaneously so valuable yet so dangerous that Tobi can't really do anything about it.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 520</ref>
== Personality and Loyalty ==
 
<gallery type="slideshow" position="left">
 
Kabuto1.png|Kabuto as a Kumogakure shinobi.
 
Kabuto2.png|Kabuto as a Kirigakure shinobi.
 
Kabuto.png|Kabuto as a Sunagakure shinobi.
 
Kabuto4.png|Kabuto as an Iwagakure shinobi.
 
</gallery>
 
   
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Kabuto appears to take his shifting allegiances in stride, but in truth he suffers an ongoing [[Wikipedia:Identity crisis|identity crisis]]. Because of the head injury he experienced when he was younger, Kabuto's early past is unknown to him and he has been having to construct an identity for himself ever since. While he was recruiting Kabuto, Orochimaru encouraged him to follow his own example and quite literally build who he wants to be out of whatever knowledge and abilities he can gather. Kabuto latched on to this idea at the time, but eventually realised that this was no different than what he did as a spy: aligning himself under some larger entity and then defining himself according to that. Kabuto decides it is better to follow [[Naruto Uzumaki]]'s example and establish his own identity by becoming even greater than those under whose shadows he's lived under, namely Orochimaru.<ref name="c356"/> Kabuto sets out to become stronger, perfecting all the skills that Orochimaru could not, and use the resulting power so that he would never need to be answerable to anyone ever again.
As a child, due to the amnesia he suffered, Kabuto was a rather shy, quiet and polite individual who didn't know who he was or where he belonged in the world. Due to the nun who took him in and gave him her glasses to see with, he was very grateful for it, shedding tears of thanks for it, showing he was rather sensitive as a child.
 
   
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In his quest to surpass Orochimaru, Kabuto convinces himself that he has become the "perfect" being.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 587</ref> He uses this believed distinction in order to ally with Tobi during the [[Fourth Shinobi World War]], pitting Tobi against the [[Allied Shinobi Forces]] so that they will destroy themselves and enable Kabuto to capitalise in the aftermath. But when his plans see continued setbacks, especially in his repeated failure to defeat [[Sasuke]] and [[Itachi Uchiha]] in battle, Kabuto's self-image as "perfect" starts to crack and he begins desperately trying to defend his final attempt at being recognised.<ref name="c585"/> Itachi tries to explain the misstep that Kabuto has been making, but it isn't until he is subjected to [[Izanami]] that Kabuto accepts it: in the act of making an identity for himself, he has only been burying who he truly is. When he peels away all his false personas, Kabuto again becomes the adoptive son of Nonō Yakushi, one who could be trusted to do things on his own and who was valued by the entire orphanage because of it.<ref name="c582" /> Despite having claimed to have surpassed Orochimaru, Kabuto still held great respect for Orochimaru, still referring to him with the honourific "-sama".
Kabuto's loyalties and personality are difficult to discern, as he is a rather sadistic, highly manipulative, yet very polite, helpful man with a very dry sense of humour. He enjoys playing mind games with his enemies, often unnerving them by pointing out their weaknesses and turning personal horrors against them. During the [[Fourth Shinobi World War]], he freely [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation|reincarnated]] people not only for combat, but also to mentally attack his opponents, and saw the personalities of those he brought back as nothing but pawns.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 522, page 10</ref> Despite this, he seems to have a hard time tolerating rudeness, indicated by his frequent admonishments of [[Sasuke Uchiha]] for not treating Orochimaru with respect. Orochimaru also seems to have a hard time determining Kabuto's thoughts at times, as seen when he orders Kabuto to kidnap Sasuke, and wonders if perhaps Kabuto will kill him instead, even giving hints that now would be an opportune time to halt his plans. Even in this instance, Orochimaru has great confidence in Kabuto's loyalty, often laughing at the prospect that Kabuto would betray him.
 
   
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Kabuto feels indebted to Itachi for restoring to him the knowledge of who he is and where in the world he most belongs; he later returns the favour to Itachi by saving Sasuke's life. After the war, Kabuto returns to the orphanage where he was raised - his long-neglected true home - and resumes the life he once had there. He believes it is vital that the orphans have identities of their own and not allow themselves to be defined by their past associations.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 700+10</ref> In the anime, Orochimaru expressed his confidence that Kabuto's chance of slipping back to his old days are even lower than himself.
While Kabuto generally obeyed Orochimaru's orders, even going so far as to save Orochimaru's life at times, he is not above helping Orochimaru's enemies; for example, he heals [[Sakura Haruno]] and [[Hinata Hyūga]] on different occasions. When healing Sakura, Kabuto hints at an ulterior motive, saying that Akatsuki is the true enemy; Orochimaru later says something similar, pointing out that the death of more Akatsuki members means fewer enemies for him. He is also generally polite to [[Naruto Uzumaki]], upon whom Kabuto possesses a peculiar fixation on, despite the fact that they have conflicting motives during their encounters. Despite his unclear goals, Kabuto seemed to be content in following Orochimaru, using this allegiance to make requests for specific bodies with which to further his knowledge.
 
 
Kabuto shows a clear view of respect to those he sees with great status, as he told Tsunade that he had the utmost respect for her as a fellow medical ninja. He sees the Sannin as great and powerful ninja, and even takes much excitement in testing his mettle against them. Due to this trait, he sees others who have not gained a high and famous reputation as nothing but inferior fighters with no skill in combat and ability, as he ridiculed Naruto's apparent inferiority when they fought, telling him about his terrible talents to be ninja, comparing him to Sasuke or asking him if he is about to escape when he was facing with Orochimaru and Kabuto despite Naruto's words that he'll never escape regardless of the situation.
 
 
Kabuto stated that he dislikes forcing people to do things against their will, and instead he would manipulate them by acting sympathetic to them. He plotted to send an ailing Kimimaro to retrieve Sasuke, but merely spoke about how much Orochimaru is suffering, in order to stimulate Kimimaro's loyalty to move against his ill body. Orochimaru noted that Kabuto has a nasty personality. Kabuto also claimed that he is an introvert, and prefers secluded places. Due to this, he considers the Impure World Reincarnation technique will bring him unwanted infamy and attention, which he notes to be the so-called perfect technique's downside.
 
 
[[File:Kabuto Conducting Experiment.png|thumb|Kabuto transfusing blood with Orochimaru's DNA into himself.]]
 
Since merging the remains of [[Orochimaru]] into his body, Kabuto has shown to have the ambition to surpass Orochimaru. He has also shown interest in accomplishing Orochimaru's goal of furthering his knowledge of techniques and as such, wants to acquire and experiment on Sasuke. He is also seemingly willing to go to great lengths to acquire him, even blackmail and attempting to convince him to join his side, if necessary. He also showed interest in experimenting on [[Yamato]] and [[Zetsu]]. One of his goals seems to be learning the secrets of the [[Sage of the Six Paths]]. He also became very arrogant of his own power, stating that he was perfect and no one could defeat him.
 
 
Although he later formed an alliance with Tobi and Akatsuki, as well as [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation|reincarnated]] an army of powerful shinobi for their use, Kabuto had previously provided Naruto a book containing all of Orochimaru's intelligence on Akatsuki, as well as leaving a trail of corpses to allow [[Anko Mitarashi]] and her brigade to follow into [[Mountains' Graveyard]]. This was apparently done to lure Anko into a trap so he could capture her in order to extract her chakra, as he refused to kill her on Tobi's orders. Tobi also suspects that Kabuto plans to use the war to weaken both the Allied Forces and his own fighting power after learning that Kabuto had led the Konoha ninja to his hideout.
 
 
Kabuto, despite his rather cool personality at the beginning of the series, has been shown to be inwardly conflicted with major insecurities about his [[Wikipedia:Identity crisis|identity]] for most of his life. According to himself, until Orochimaru was sealed he was rather unsure of his identity. He stated himself that he would now do what he wanted to do as he felt no loyalty to even the people or village that raised him, detesting the fact that he had been brought up by the enemy of his people.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 356, page 14</ref> He claimed to not know who he really was or what he wanted to do until thinking about how Naruto achieved his resolve.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 356, pages 14, 16</ref> Overall, Kabuto compares himself with [[Itachi Uchiha]], both of whom served Konoha in the shadows but were ostracised by the village in return, and claims that because of this, he understands [[Sasuke]] more than anyone. However, after realising that he is imprisoned within his own mind in an endless loop and his machinations have fallen apart, he attempts to justify his actions by asserting that he wanted someone to affirm and recognise his existence.
 
   
 
== Appearance ==
 
== Appearance ==
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<gallery type="slideshow" widths="240" hideaddbutton="true">
Kabuto's trademark is a pair of circular glasses, a gift from [[Nonō]], and he is rarely seen without them. He has onyx eyes and ash-grey hair, which is normally kept in a ponytail that extends to his upper back, with his bangs framing either side of his forehead. In the majority of his earlier appearances, he wore a dark purple shirt with a high collar, a white under-shirt, fingerless gloves with armoured plates on the back of the hand, a white cloth waistband worn at an angle, dark purple pants, blue sandals, and a shuriken holster on his right leg. He typically wore an [[Otogakure]] [[forehead protector]], but was first seen wearing a [[Konohagakure]] forehead protector as a part of his genin disguise. In Part II, he no longer wears his forehead protector or his gloves. He also occasionally wears a purple hooded mantle, particularily when trying to disguise his identity.
 
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Kabuto_Yakushi_Part_I.png|Kabuto's appearance during Part I.
 
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Kabuto appearance.png|Kabuto's appearance during Part II.
[[File:Kabuto-chikara.png|thumb|left|200px|Kabuto before his complete transformation in the anime.]]
 
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Kabuto_Oros_Remains.png|Kabuto after integrating Orochimaru's remains.
Shortly after Sasuke counter-absorbed Orochimaru, Kabuto took cells and tissue from the remains of Orochimaru's true form and implanted them in his body. Though he was resisting their influence, the cells and tissue slowly began to take over his body, first speading over the left half of his face and much of his left side, causing the affected areas to turn a pale white color and become scaly, with his left eye developing Orochimaru's purple marking and serpentine pupil. During the anime-exclusive [[Chikara Arc]], he wears a black robe with red lining and no longer wears his hair in a ponytail, instead leaving it long and unkempt, with the bangs parted to cover the left side of his face and his right cheek, partially obscuring the physical effects of absorbing Orochimaru's cells. Both eyes are serpentine pupiled.<ref name="ship290">''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 290</ref>
 
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Kabuto Power.png|Kabuto during the Power Arc.
 
[[File:Kabuchimaru.png|thumb|right|Kabuto's appearance during the Fourth Shinobi World War.]]
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Kabuto war.png|Kabuto during the Fourth Shinobi World War.
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Kabuto Yakushi - Sage Mode.png|Kabuto while using Sage Mode.
Upon reappearing shortly before the outbreak of the Fourth Shinobi World War, it's revealed that he's learned to fully control Orochimaru's genetic material, causing him to take on many of the physical traits of his former master. These included purple eye markings along with scaly patterns on his face and much of his body. He wears his hair in an unkempt bowl cut, allowing it to grow out. He wears a maroon-coloured cloak with a hood designed to resemble a serpent's head, with white, red, and yellow markings that resemble eyes; the hood can be closed like a snake's mouth to help protect his senses from the effects of [[genjutsu]]. A long, white snake was also fused with his abdomen, which he kept wrapped around his waist and was often seen slithering out from under his robes like a tail. He was also able to [[Human Body Shedding Technique|shed his human body]], taking on the appearance of a monstrous snake with sharply distorted facial features and arms.
 
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</gallery>
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Kabuto has onyx eyes and ash-grey hair, which he normally keeps in a ponytail. His most consistent feature are his black rimmed circular glasses, given to him by Nonō. During Part I and for much of Part II, Kabuto wears a dark purple shirt with a high collar, a white under-shirt, and dark purple pants with a white cloth waistband. In Part I he wears also dark purple fingerless gloves with armoured plates on the back of the hand and a blue [[forehead protector]]. During Part II, he infuses himself with Orochimaru's [[Power of the White Snake|remains]], causing his skin to turn white and scaly around the point of application on his left arm; this gradually spreads its influence across the rest of his body. In the anime's [[Power (Arc)|Power arc]], set before his body is fully covered by Orochimaru's remains, Kabuto wears a black robe with red lining and he starts allowing his hair to grow long and unkempt, all of which help to hide the changes to his body.
   
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Once his body is fully converted, his appearance becomes starkly similar to Orochimaru's, so much so that Sasuke Uchiha initially mistakes Kabuto for him. In addition to the changes to his skin, Kabuto's eyes become yellow with slitted pupils, around which are Orochimaru's characteristic purple markings. A long, white snake also fuses with his abdomen, which he wraps around his waist and which sometimes slithers under or behind him like a tail. His mostly human appearance is actually a shell, as his true form is much more serpentine, having a long body, comparatively short legs and arms, and an elongated face. During the Fourth Shinobi World War, Kabuto wears a maroon-coloured cloak with a hood designed to resemble a serpent's head, with white, red, and yellow markings that resemble eyes. Many years later, after returning to the orphanage, he starts wearing the staff's typical garb and once again ties his hair in a ponytail, although the effects of infusing himself with Orochimaru's remains appear to be permanent, as Kabuto's body continues to resemble Orochimaru's.
After Sasuke revived Orochimaru, the latter reabsorbed his chakra from Kabuto, which caused Kabuto's reptilian features to recede as he reverts to his original human form.<ref name="chpt593">''Naruto'' chapter 593, pages 16-17</ref>
 
   
 
== Abilities ==
 
== Abilities ==
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[[File:Kabuto's Power.png|thumb|left|Kabuto noting himself to be the closest in power to Hagoromo.]]
Despite officially being a [[genin]], Kabuto has proven himself to be a skilled and cunning ninja far beyond that level, particularly because of his medical abilities. Even [[Jiraiya]] and Orochimaru remarked at one point that his skills were comparable to those of [[Kakashi Hatake]].<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 165, page 15</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 88, page 12</ref> He has been shown to be able to kill [[ANBU]] members with relative ease,<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 89, page 2</ref> and even mockingly stated he could handle at least ten ANBU members.<ref>''Naruto'' episode 51</ref> Through keen observation, Kabuto can quickly determine the situation at hand. Even when up against a stronger opponent, he can gain an advantage by quickly exploiting their weakness. Kabuto is also very adaptable, as when Tsunade [[Body Pathway Derangement|flipped his nervous system signals]], he managed to regain control of his body quickly, a feat that impressed Tsunade.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 164, page 17</ref> Even as a child, he already demonstrated great potential, to the point that Orochimaru took great interest in him and kept track of him prior to recruiting him.<ref name=Ch584/>
 
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While Kabuto was just a child he possessed a natural talent in the shinobi arts, a trademark that caught the attention of [[Orochimaru]] upon first meeting Kabuto and studying his service record with [[Root]], which ultimately led to Kabuto being his right-hand man. In Part I, Kabuto's skills are noted to be comparable to [[Kakashi Hatake]]'s,<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 88, page 12</ref> and enough to defeat members of [[Konoha]]'s [[Anbu]] with ease, noting that they should have readied at least ten guards for him.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 89, page 2</ref> [[Tsunade]] even notes that his knack for ninjutsu and his sharpness surpass that of hers in her prime.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 164, page 12</ref> During Part II, Kabuto sets out to correct the talents he feels were never fully realised: he later boasts that he has surpassed Orochimaru,<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 579, page 12</ref> is the closest living person to match the power of the [[Sage of Six Paths]],<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 582, page 5</ref> and is the single most important player in the entire [[Fourth Shinobi World War]]. Kabuto's improved prowess enabled him to overwhelm Sasuke and the [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation|reincarnated]] Itachi, two Uchiha clan prodigies, several times in battle.
   
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=== Body Modifications ===
Upon adapting to his bodily modifications and mastering the art of [[Sage Mode]], his fighting prowess was greatly enhanced to the point that he was able to overwhelm the combined efforts of both [[Sasuke Uchiha]] and [[Itachi Uchiha]] despite their considerable skills and mastery of the [[Mangekyō Sharingan]], eventually forcing Itachi to use the forbidden [[Izanami]] in an attempt to force him to end [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation]].
 
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In order to achieve the "perfect being" identity he desires for himself, Kabuto makes a number of modifications to his body prior to the Fourth Shinobi World War, causing him to develop a different [[chakra]] signature<ref name="c667" /> and granting him a larger reserve that is strong enough to visibly effect his surroundings.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 334</ref> The first and most notable of these modifications was infusing himself with the remains of Orochimaru's body, thus obtaining the [[Power of the White Snake]]. Over time, the remains alter his body, making his "true" appearance very snake-like, in which he can move around quickly and use his large mouth to swallow and thus capture targets.<ref name="c514">''Naruto'' chapter 514, pages 11-12</ref> He usually disguises his appearance within a more normal-looking skin, which he can [[Orochimaru-Style Body Replacement Technique|shed]] as needed. This outer skin has a snake embedded in its navel, which he can merge with others' bodies in order to heal them.<ref name="c667">''Naruto'' chapter 667, pages 2-4</ref> Kabuto can in fact produce white snakes of varying sizes from his body, either to act as additional appendages<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 514, page 17</ref> or to detach from him and carry out his will. These snakes can use their heightened senses to communicate targets' locations to him, communicate on his behalf, possess his chakra signature to throw off sensor types, and share some of his other bodily modifications.<ref name="c579">''Naruto'' chapter 579</ref>
   
  +
[[File:Kabuto Using Orochimaru.png|thumb|Kabuto manifesting Orochimaru from his body.]]
=== Taijutsu ===
 
  +
From his extensive study of Orochimaru's various human test subjects, Kabuto alters his body to replicate certain others' trademark skills: he creates a version of [[Suigetsu Hōzuki]]'s [[Hydrification Technique]] to escape capture by liquefying his body; he can reproduce [[Karin]]'s natural [[Uzumaki]]-based rejuvenation to heal injuries he suffers; he can use [[Jūgo]]'s [[Jūgo's Clan's Kekkei Genkai|kekkei genkai]] to passively absorb [[natural energy]], allowing him to continuously use [[Sage Mode]] without the need of remaining still.<ref name="c579"/> While in Sage Mode, he can make further use of others' abilities through his [[Strange Transmission Distant Shadow]] technique, granting him all the skill-sets of whoever he has genetic samples of. He does this through an application of [[Sakon]]'s [[Attack of the Twin Demons|body merging ability]], generating mindless clones of others from his navel snake that can use all of their techniques. With this, he is able to access the abilities of the [[Sound Five]], such as [[Kimimaro]]'s [[Shikotsumyaku|accelerated bone production]] and [[Kidōmaru]]'s [[Spider Web Unrolling|spider web-based bindings]].<ref name="c585">''Naruto'' chapter 585</ref>
While claiming to have lesser skill in taijutsu, Kabuto has shown himself to be proficient enough to hold his own against [[Tsunade]], a skilled taijutsu fighter known for her devastating strikes, after tiring her out and consuming a [[Military Rations Pill]]. His main style of taijutsu is to use the [[chakra scalpel]], which allows him to form his chakra into a blade and hit his target's muscles, pressure points, and other key points of their body. During his battle with [[Tsunade]], she remarks that Kabuto's senses and sharpness may have surpassed hers in her prime.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 164, page 12</ref> In battle, he first quickly assesses his opponent's strength and battle style to comprehend their movements, thereby allowing him to easily predict and dodge their attacks. He then uses his medical ninjutsu to systematically take down his opponent in order to disable and subdue them.
 
   
  +
=== Ninjutsu ===
While in Sage Mode, Kabuto's physical abilities, such as his speed and reflexes, were enhanced to the point were he could both evade and repel multiple high-speed and powered attacks from both Sasuke and Itachi with relative ease, despite having his vision impaired.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 579, page 14-15</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 580, page 8</ref> Not only that, but he was also able to attack Itachi before he could react or defend himself.<ref name="c585p167">''Naruto'' chapter 585, pages 16-17</ref>
 
  +
Kabuto's [[nature]]s include [[Earth]], [[Water]], and [[Wind]], as well as [[Yin]] and [[Yang release]].<ref name="d4" /> He can use Earth Release to [[Earth Release: Hiding Like a Mole Technique|travel underground]] and, with [[Jirōbō]]'s DNA, [[Earth Release: Earth Shore Return|upend the earth]]. He can also use Water Release without a nearby water source, able to create [[Water Release: Great Waterfall Technique|large water projectiles]] and [[Water Release: Water Dragon Bullet Technique|water dragons]]. Kabuto can produce [[barrier]]s to hide his location<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 577, page 16</ref> and, in the anime, [[Hiding with Camouflage Technique|make himself invisible]].<ref>''Naruto'' episode 35</ref>
   
=== Ninjutsu ===
 
 
==== Medical Ninjutsu ====
 
==== Medical Ninjutsu ====
[[File:Chakra Scalpel.PNG|thumb|Kabuto using chakra scalpel.]]
+
[[File:Chakra Scalpel.PNG|thumb|left|Kabuto using the chakra scalpel.]]
  +
Kabuto was taught [[medical ninjutsu]] by [[Nonō Yakushi]] when he was young and immediately displayed a natural talent for it. He can heal most injuries without difficulty, even performing the ordinarily close-contact [[Mystical Palm Technique]] from a slight distance.<ref name="c296">''Naruto'' chapter 296, pages 12-13</ref> He invents [[Yin Healing Wound Destruction]] as a way of keeping test subjects alive longer by preemptively healing damage they receive, but he can also use it on himself when he expects to be badly injured. He uses [[chakra scalpel]]s quite extensively outside their intended surgical use, either to cut through defences<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 290, pages 9-11</ref> or augment his physical strikes, severing muscles on contact in order to disable opponents. Kabuto was also able to sever the [[chakra pathway system]], which also prevented a jinchūriki from receiving chakra from their tailed-beast.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 168, page 9</ref>
Despite his young age, Kabuto has demonstrated tremendous skill and ingenuity in medical ninjutsu. With his extensive knowledge of medical ninjutsu and of the human body, Kabuto can quickly adjust to any damage done to his body and severely injure a person with a single chakra-infused strike to the chest. He has also developed the unique ability to be able to [[Yin Healing Wound Destruction|reactivate dead cells and grow new ones]]; the usage of this technique effectively during battle requires him to read his opponent's moves accurately in order to prepare the area of which he would apply the cell reconstruction, a feat that he is very capable of. Through his experiments on [[Karin]]'s healing abilities and powerful life-force, Kabuto was able to attain near-instantaneous regeneration abilities himself.<ref name="copycat">''Naruto'' chapter 579, page 10</ref>
 
   
  +
Kabuto has an unprecedented knowledge of the human body, enough that, when his body's [[Body Pathway Derangement|electrical signals are scrambled]], he is able to quickly compensate and relearn how to control his limbs. For others, he can use his knowledge to create drugs to various effects, either as pain killers, hormones to enhance physical attributes,<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 311, page 16</ref> poisons to specifically neutralise a particular target's abilities or immunities, and truth serums to aid in interrogations.<ref name="c515">''Naruto'' chapter 515, pages 10-11</ref> Kabuto has a unique affinity for corpses, able to [[Dead Soul Technique|reanimate]] them for use as allies in combat or decoys; in the case of the latter, he can quickly alter the corpse's appearance to look like someone else, which is so convincing that the alteration is only noticeable on close scrutiny. He in fact likes to keep a supply of variously-aged corpses with him at all times, which he stores in scrolls until he needs them.
He also often uses scalpels as throwing weapons instead of kunai. In Part II, Kabuto has apparently advanced his medical ninjutsu even further. He is capable of using the chakra scalpel without any hand seals, and still powerful enough to cut through wood and flesh with ease, and can use the [[Mystical Palm Technique]] at a distance.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 290, pages 9-11</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 296, pages 12-13</ref> In Sage Mode, the strength of his chakra scalpel was great enough to completely bisect a reincarnated Itachi Uchiha in one strike.<ref name="c585p167"/>
 
   
  +
==== Summoning ====
Kabuto's prowess in medical ninjutsu has allowed him to develop a series of drugs with various effects. This was demonstrated several times. One instance would be the drugs given to Sasuke which aided in his training process.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 311, page 16</ref> As shown with [[Manda II]], he is also capable of genetically altering organisms making them bigger, stronger than the [[Manda|original]].<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 513, page 12</ref> Kabuto has also invented a special drug that is capable of suppressing the power of a [[Wood Release]] user<ref name="c515 p10">''Naruto'' chapter 515, page 10</ref> and a truth serum that allows him to interrogate enemies with ease.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 513, page 11</ref>
 
  +
Kabuto uses his own blood to help Orochimaru [[Summoning Technique|summon]] [[snake]]s a few times in Part I, but it's not until after he takes on Orochimaru's remains that he starts summoning snakes for himself.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 516, page 8</ref> Like the snakes he makes with his own body, he can use these snake to restrain targets or inject them with venom or various drugs.<ref name="c515" /> He also managed to clone and genetically augment animals for his own usage, such as [[Manda II]] — a much larger and stronger clone of [[Manda]].<ref name="c513">''Naruto'' chapter 513</ref> In the anime's [[Power (Arc)|Power arc]], he summons several other varieties of modified snakes that can absorb chakra, morph into copies of himself, and small [[clone snakes]] that can combine into replicas of others.<ref name="ship290">''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 290</ref>
   
  +
[[File:Kabuto Resurrecting Heiji.png|thumb|Kabuto using Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation.]]
Kabuto has demonstrated a unique affinity for corpses, and has demonstrated an interest in being able to [[Dead Soul Technique|reanimate them]]. This is primarily convenient when he is experimenting with test subjects, though they have been used briefly in escape situations, and may be used in combat. Kabuto's expertise in medical ninjutsu is far-reaching enough for him to be able to create an almost perfect look-alike of a person from a corpse in very little time and under high pressure, and keeps a [[Generic Sealing Technique|sealing scroll]] to [[Summoning Technique|summon]] corpses for usage; he mentioned to Orochimaru that he would like to keep his stock refilled after using one. Kabuto can even use the remains of a corpse to create a physically [[Manda II|enhanced clone]] as he did with [[Manda]] by using the dead snake's cells and various drugs.
 
  +
Kabuto claims to have perfected the [[Impure World Reincarnation]]: he is able to reincarnate dozens of individuals at a time - something its creator, [[Tobirama Senju]], could not<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 521, page 5</ref> - and bring them back with the same power they had while alive - something Orochimaru could not.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 546, page 15</ref> Kabuto typically allows his reincarnated forces to keep their personalities while they carry out his bidding, making them more effective and allowing for a degree of psychological warfare against those who knew them when alive. By siphoning chakra from [[Orochimaru's cursed seals]], he can remotely suppress their personalities and take full control of their actions.<ref name="c522">''Naruto'' chapter 522, pages 9-10</ref> In the case of [[Madara Uchiha]]'s reincarnated body, Kabuto makes several modifications to it in order to restore Madara's youth and give him the [[Rinnegan]] and [[Wood Release]].<ref name="c560">''Naruto'' chapter 560, page 3</ref>
 
==== Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation ====
 
[[File:Akatsuki revived.png|thumb|left|Kabuto reincarnates five deceased Akatsuki members.]]
 
As a further testament to his corpse theme, Kabuto can perform the [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation]] technique — which only [[Orochimaru]] and [[Tobirama Senju]] could before, claiming superior usage of the technique than his predecessors, supporting that by reincarnating five deceased Akatsuki members at once.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 489, page 19</ref> He also states that he can reincarnate many other powerful ninja under his control, including [[Madara Uchiha]]. He applied a seal on the corpses that doesn't completely rob them of their free will, but still controls their body movement against their will — a seal different from the one Orochimaru used. Kabuto showed his great prowess in this particular technique by summoning a large group of famous and powerful shinobi, including deceased [[jinchūriki]], [[Kage]], and many others. He is even able to remotely monitor the bodies as well as re-write the commands given to the reincarnated shinobi, allowing him to rob them of their free will whenever he wants.
 
 
Kabuto can also modify these reincarnated bodies to increase their abilities to an unknown extent as shown with enhancements done to Madara Uchiha.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 560, page 3</ref>
 
 
==== Nature Transformation ====
 
Kabuto is capable of using [[Earth Release]] to [[Earth Release: Hiding Like a Mole Technique|move underground]].<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 164, page 8</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 166, page 10</ref> After infusing himself with the DNA of the Sound Four, he was capable of using [[Earth Release: Earth Shore Return]] through a manifestation of Jirōbō, which he used during his battle against Itachi and Sasuke to rid himself of an Amaterasu wall.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 585, page 4</ref>
 
 
Kabuto has also demonstrated great skill with [[Water Release]], as he is capable [[Water Release: Great Waterfall Technique|of creating large torrents of water]]<ref name="c586p3">''Naruto'' chapter 586, page 3</ref> and even using the powerful [[Water Release: Water Dragon Bullet Technique]] without the extensive use of hand seals or an external water source.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 587, page 11</ref> He was also capable of overwhelming [[Sasuke Uchiha]]'s [[Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique]]; the latter was caught completely off-guard by this, despite being protected by his [[Susanoo]].<ref name="c586p3"/>
 
 
=== Genjutsu ===
 
Kabuto has shown he is highly adept in genjutsu, having the skill to put an entire stadium of people, minus those that were able to detect and deflect his [[Temple of Nirvana Technique]] in time.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 114, pages 15-17</ref> He could also utilise [[Tayuya]]'s unique music based genjutsu [[Demonic Flute: Phantom Sound Chains]] after integrating her DNA into himself. With that technique, he could bind both [[Itachi Uchiha]] and [[Sasuke Uchiha]] at the same time and rendered them unable to break the genjutsu on their own despite their considerable genjutsu prowess.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 585, pages 8-12</ref>
 
 
=== DNA Modifications ===
 
[[File:Oro+Kabuto.png|thumb|Kabuto producing a manifestation of Orochimaru's body from his navel snake.]]
 
As a part of his "''quest to find himself''", Kabuto performed various experiments on his own body, integrating the DNA of both Orochimaru and a few other of his experiment subjects. As a result, he gained access to their unique abilities, techniques and kekkei genkai.
 
 
By infusing himself with Orochimaru's DNA, he gained access to his master's snake techniques and summons, the ability to alter his body and an enhanced chakra capacity. Later, he assimilated the DNA from three members of [[Taka]], gaining Karin's healing powers, developed an altered version of Suigetsu's [[Hydrification Technique|liquification]] abilities and Jūgo's ability to passively absorb natural energy, allowing him to continuously use [[Sage Mode]] without assistance. He also integrated the DNA of the entire [[Sound Five]] team into his body. He could first use [[Sakon]]'s [[Attack of the Twin Demons]] to manifest a second body identical in appearance to that of the twins, which was connected to the base of his navel-snake. With this, he gained access to multiple techniques, such as Jirōbō's Earth Release techniques, Tayuya's [[Demonic Flute: Phantom Sound Chains|sound-based genjutsu abilities]], Kidōmaru's [[Spider Web Unrolling|web techniques]], and Kimimaro's [[Shikotsumyaku]] [[kekkei genkai]], with the manifestation changing form to resemble each person when the ability was used. By creating a manifestation of Orochimaru and changing it into his [[Power of the White Snake|true form]], he could capture opponents or emerge from the giant snake to perform a surprise attack. Even if this second attack was somehow blocked, Kabuto could [[Body Shedding|shed his skin again]] to continue his move. Using these abilities, Kabuto could drastically change and control the battlefield, as well as overwhelm opponents with a myriad of techniques.
 
 
Due to this assimilation, Kabuto's chakra reserves have increased tremendously. A testament to this was his ability to summon and control dozens of [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation|reincarnated]] ninja at one time for up to two days, and summon [[Manda II]], a snake even larger than [[Manda]]. As a result his chakra reserves became large enough that he was able to enter [[Sage Mode]]. After capturing Anko and absorbing Orochimaru's residual senjutsu chakra from her cursed seal, he became even more powerful.
 
 
After Orochimaru's revival, he absorbed his chakra from Kabuto's body, which reverted the latter to his original appearance.<ref name="chpt593"/>
 
 
==== Snake Techniques ====
 
[[File:Transformed Kabuto took Yamato.png|thumb|left|Kabuto's snake form.]]
 
After implanting Orochimaru's cells into his body, Kabuto gained all of his snake-oriented techniques and abilities, first exhibiting some of these skills to kill several [[Takigakure]] ninja with great ease using multiple snakes. Kabuto could communicate telepathically with his snakes using the one that serves as his tail.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 514, page 4</ref> He could also use the [[Hidden Shadow Snake Hands]] for a quick ambush attack. Moreover, with his new form, Kabuto was capable of injecting drugs that he has developed, directly through the fangs of the snakes that he creates from his body,<ref name="c515 p10" /> and in the anime from his "snake tail", including one that could knock Anko out, despite her having received treatment to be immune to poison while with Orochimaru.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 261</ref> He is also seemingly able to alter the size of these particular snakes at will, even after summoning them.<ref name="c579">''Naruto'' chapter 579, pages 3-4</ref>
 
 
[[File:Cellular Snake Division scattering.png|thumb|right|Kabuto uses his tiny snakes.]]
 
In the anime, he can use [[Tiny Snake Division Technique|tiny snakes]] he gained from Orochimaru's DNA. These snakes could [[Body Recreation Technique|create new life]] if used at the [[The Hole|right place]], as well form to a larger snake for [[Tiny Snake Division: Serpent Technique|offensive]] usage.<ref name="ship290"/>
 
 
Another ability relating to this snake-theme was that Kabuto could [[Human Body Shedding Technique|shed his skin]] to turn into a white snake with arms, similar to Orochimaru's true form. While in this form, he could move at very fast speeds and even swallow a full-grown man whole.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 514, pages 11-12</ref> He could also take on a form in which his lower half resembled a snake's with legs, with his navel-snake extending from the end, like a tail.<ref name="c514">''Naruto'' chapter 514, page 17</ref>
 
 
To counteract [[genjutsu]] that are dependent upon eye contact, Kabuto could instead rely solely upon his snakes' ability to perceive their surroundings through sensing the ambient temperatures and smells using their tongues, rather than his own sight.<ref name="c579"/> After researching the [[Hōzuki clan]]'s [[Hydrification Technique]], through Suigetsu, he altered it so that he could liquefy portions of his body at will using his body fluids, including the [[Body Fluid Shedding Technique|snakes]] that are generated directly from himself.<ref name="copycat"/>
 
   
 
=== Senjutsu ===
 
=== Senjutsu ===
[[File:Snake Sage Mode.png|thumb|left|Kabuto in Sage Mode.]]
+
[[File:Kabuto's Sage Mode.png|thumb|left|Kabuto in Sage Mode.]]
  +
Due to the larger chakra reserves he gains from Orochimaru's remains, Kabuto is able to learn [[senjutsu]] from the [[White Snake Sage]] at the [[Ryūchi Cave]]. This allows him to enter [[Sage Mode]], which he can use indefinitely due to his replication of [[Jūgo]]'s passive ability to constantly absorb [[natural energy]]. In Sage Mode, Kabuto's only noticeable physical alterations are the markings around his eyes, the four horns on the back of his head, and [[Wikipedia:Brille|brille]] to give him immunity to [[genjutsu]] and other visual attacks;<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 580, pages 2-4</ref> he describes his transformation as changing him from a snake to a dragon.<ref name="C579P19">''Naruto'' chapter 579, page 19</ref> Using Sage Mode makes Kabuto's jutsu and physical attacks stronger,<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 585, pages 16-17</ref> improves his physical defences,<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 581, page 16</ref> heightens his speed and reflexes,<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 579, page 16</ref> and allows him to [[sense]] his surroundings.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 580, page 8</ref> He can also [[Sage Art: Inorganic Reincarnation|infuse natural energy]] into inanimate objects, giving them life.
After Orochimaru's sealing, Kabuto travelled across the world and ultimately discovered the location of the [[Ryūchi Cave]]. There, he was taught [[senjutsu]] by the [[White Snake Sage]] where he gained access to a [[Sage Mode]]. This, together with the research and self-modifications based on Jūgo's clan's abilities, also allows Kabuto to passively and continuously absorb [[natural energy]] without assistance, allowing him to potentially maintain his Sage Mode indefinitely. According to Kabuto, this meant that he was no longer a snake, but had instead transcended into a dragon.<ref name="C579P19">''Naruto'' chapter 579, page 19</ref>
 
 
Physically, Kabuto undergoes little alteration in this form, with the only visible changes being the markings around his eyes extending onto his back and the growth of four horns on the back of his head, as well as darkened [[Wikipedia:Sclera|sclerae]].<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 579, pages 18-19</ref> Sage Mode greatly enhances Kabuto's speed, perception and reflexes, to such an extent that he can even dodge the [[Susanoo Bow|arrows]] fired by Sasuke's [[Susanoo]], which are noted for their tremendous speed.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 579, page 16</ref> He also gained access to further snake anatomy, such as their [[Wikipedia:Brille|brille]], which allowed him to severely impair his opponents through the use of [[Sage Art: White Rage Technique|intense light]] whilst remaining completely unaffected himself.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 580, pages 2-4</ref> He is also capable of [[Sage Art: Inorganic Reincarnation|infusing life into inanimate objects]] and manipulating them, such as the surrounding terrain, making it very difficult to counter.
 
   
 
=== Intelligence ===
 
=== Intelligence ===
  +
During his years in Root, Kabuto became one of the organisation's best spies, a role he continued to serve for Orochimaru. Over the years, he uncovers a great deal of information unknown to most of the world, such as how [[Zetsu]]s are made, the truth surrounding the [[Uchiha Clan Downfall]],<ref name="c581"/> and [[Tobi]]'s true identity. Like Orochimaru, Kabuto has shown himself as an extensive researcher, performing multiple experiments to empower or neutralise an individual's abilities. In combat, Kabuto can use his gathered knowledge to plan around an opponents' abilities by employing appropriate countermeasures.<ref name="c513"/><ref name="c514"/> This also speaks to his considerable ability to manipulate opponents, as he frequently tries to break down their resolve,<ref name="c167">''Naruto'' chapter 167</ref> turn them against their allies, or even come up with similarities that might convince them to join forces with him.<ref name="c581">''Naruto'' chapter 581</ref> Even if his manipulations fail or they cannot in and of themselves benefit him, Kabuto is good at making all possible outcomes work in his favour: the [[Allied Shinobi Forces]]' losses helped his stated objective of winning the Fourth Shinobi World War, while the Allied Shinobi Forces' victories helped his long-term objective of undermining [[Akatsuki]].
Being trained as a spy by Root, conducting espionage missions on all Great Ninja Villages, as well as being the right-hand man and spy for Orochimaru, and being a former [[Akatsuki]] sleeper agent, Kabuto is extremely skilled in matters of intelligence gathering and espionage, having gained access to large stores of knowledge which he uses to produce devastating effects. This includes him finding Tobi, as well as knowing that he was not the real Madara Uchiha and simply using his name to help him start the Fourth Shinobi World War, and his plan to revive the [[Ten-Tails]], knowing about [[Zetsu]], outwitting [[Kurotsuchi]] by knowing her abilities, and even the truth of the [[Uchiha clan massacre]], the latter of which is so secretive that only a selective few ever knew.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 581, page 6</ref>
 
 
Like his mentor Orochimaru, Kabuto has shown himself as an extensive researcher, performing multiple experiments to increase or neutralise an individual's abilities, as shown by his creation of Manda II, his intricate knowledge of the Wood Release and subsequent empowering of the Zetsu army, his mastery of the Impure World Reincarnation, his enhancement of Madara's ''prime'' body and the enhancements done to his own body by studying, assimilating and reverse engineering the abilities of his former master, the Sound Five and team [[Taka]].
 
 
He has also shown himself to be a very skilled manipulator. For years, he was able to convince all of Konohagakure into believing he was a genuinely benign man with inept shinobi skill outside of medical skills (to which he made it appear he was only decent at) to make it easier in gathering information. He made Orochimaru doubt his true loyalties on at least one occasion, but since Orochimaru's sealing, he has expressed his true support of his former master's ideology. He has shown to be able to use his strong powers of deception to fool his targets into aiding him in several manners, even including a master manipulator such as Tobi, well known for his own ability to manipulate others. He also used such manipulative methods with the [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation]], by allowing the reincarnated shinobi to retain their personalities, so they can be used for psychological warfare, as well as memories, emotions, and creativity to enhance combat efficiency. This shows that Kabuto understands the human mind very well, and takes advantage of that to help meet his own ends.
 
 
However, Kabuto's present loyalties still remain unclear due to his many conflicting comments and actions.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 357, page 4</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 357, page 6</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 490, pages 2-3</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 490, page 9</ref><ref>''Naruto'' chapter 516, pages 8-9</ref>
 
   
 
=== Other Skills ===
 
=== Other Skills ===
  +
Although Kabuto rarely uses [[genjutsu]], his high skill with it allows him to [[Temple of Nirvana Technique|put a large number of people to sleep]].<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 114, pages 15-17</ref> After integrating [[Tayuya]]'s DNA, he could use trap Itachi and Sasuke in her [[Demonic Flute: Phantom Sound Chains|flute-based genjutsu]], and despite the two being genjutsu masters, they were unable to break it independently.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 585</ref> Although Kabuto admits that [[taijutsu]] is not his forte, he has shown to have good reflexes, reacting to threats just in time to defend himself or allies<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 156</ref> as well as fending off [[Naruto Uzumaki]]'s and his [[shadow clone]]s despite being outnumbered.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 304</ref>
Kabuto has also displayed some skill with [[barrier ninjutsu]], having erected one around his proximity during the [[Fourth Shinobi World War]] in order to hide his location.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 577, page 16</ref> Kabuto appears to be adept in swordplay, as seen when he commandeered Sasuke's sword to attack Itachi.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 580, page 14</ref> In the anime, he also showed the ability to [[Hiding with Camouflage Technique|make himself invisible]].<ref>''Naruto'' episode 35</ref>
 
   
 
=== Stats ===
 
=== Stats ===
Line 130: Line 78:
   
 
== Part I ==
 
== Part I ==
=== Chūnin Exam Arc ===
+
=== Chūnin Exams ===
  +
{{main|Chūnin Exams (Arc)|l1=Chūnin Exams}}
[[File:Kabuto Team.jpg|thumb|Kabuto's genin team.]]
 
  +
[[File:Kabuto's Genin Team.png|thumb|Kabuto and his teammates.]]
Prior to the first phase of the [[Chūnin Exams]], Kabuto befriended the members of the [[Rookie Nine]] with information on their fellow competitors. During the second phase of the exam, Kabuto joined forces with Team 7 in an attempt to finish the phase with little hassle. When the group encountered [[Team Oboro]], Kabuto's glasses were knocked off of his face after saving [[Naruto Uzumaki]] from an attack. This caused Kabuto to momentarily lose his cool and reveal his [[Killing Intent]], paralysing both Team Oboro and Naruto's team-mates as he took advantage to defeat the Ame genin. Upon completing the second test, Kabuto reunited with his team-mates and fellow agents, [[Yoroi Akadō]] and [[Misumi Tsurugi]]. Back with his team, Kabuto reported to Orochimaru what he had learned about [[Sasuke Uchiha]].
 
  +
Kabuto is teamed with [[Yoroi Akadō]] and [[Misumi Tsurugi]] so that they can enter the [[Chūnin Exams]] being held in [[Konoha]]. Before the exam's first stage begins, Kabuto befriends the [[Rookie Nine]]. Because they're all quite confident in their prospects, he warns them about the exam's inherent difficulty as well as the considerable competition that some of the other participants pose. He confesses that he has little information on the ninja of [[Oto]], but he doesn't feel this is an issue. This provokes the eavesdropping [[Dosu Kinuta]] - an Oto-genin - to attack him; although Kabuto dodges, Dosu's [[Resonating Echo Speaker]] shatters his glasses and makes him nauseous. The exam proctors break up the fight.
   
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As the second stage of the exams near completion, Kabuto finds the members of [[Team Kakashi|Team 7]] in the [[Forest of Death]], arriving in time to stop [[Naruto Uzumaki]] from opening one of the scrolls they're supposed to be gathering; he explains that doing so results in unconsciousness and thus failure. When asked, he explains that he was separated from his team and that he's on his way to meet them with the two scrolls he's acquired. [[Sasuke Uchiha]] challenges him to a fight, needing one of the scrolls if Team 7 is to pass. Kabuto suggests that they instead trying taking a scroll from one of the teams gathering in the centre of the forest. He offers to help them in exchange for accompanying him, providing safety in numbers.
[[File:Scalpel.png|thumb|left|Kabuto intending to kill Sasuke.]]
 
With Orochimaru now in a position to observe Sasuke firsthand, Kabuto forfeited prior to the preliminary matches of the Chūnin Exams. While explaining to Naruto that he was fatigued, injured, and unwilling to risk his life further, Kabuto actually forfeited due to his fear that prolonged fighting would cause him to show his true abilities, blowing his cover. After Orochimaru gathered enough of his own intelligence about Sasuke, he instructed Kabuto to kidnap Sasuke. He was able to take out the eight [[ANBU]] members guarding Sasuke and almost succeeded in accomplishing this task, but [[Kakashi Hatake]] intervened before he could finish, forcing Kabuto to flee.
 
   
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As they approach the centre and the deadline to finish nears, Kabuto and Team 7 are caught in a [[genjutsu]] by [[Team Oboro]], who have similar plans of taking scrolls as they do. Naruto uses [[shadow clone]]s to draw out Team Oboro, who fight his clones with their own [[haze clone]]s. Kabuto is impressed by Naruto's large chakra supply, but, as Sasuke discovers with his [[Sharingan]], the fight is meaningless since the haze clones are only a distraction. Team Oboro tries sneaking up on Naruto and attacking him, which Kabuto blocks, becoming injured instead; he exudes [[killing intent]] in response, creating an opening for Naruto to knock them out. Team 7 takes Team Oboro's scroll and Kabuto accompanies them to the centre of the forest where he reunites with his team. He thanks Team 7 for their help.
Later, he spoke with [[Baki]] and they discussed the upcoming Suna and Oto invasion of Konoha. While discussing the upcoming invasion, they realised that they were being overheard by [[Hayate Gekkō]]. Kabuto offered to eliminate Hayate, but Baki did so himself.
 
   
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Kabuto and his team meet with [[Orochimaru]] before the next stage of the exams start and Kabuto gives him the intel he's gathered on Sasuke. They then assemble with the other qualifying teams and are informed that one-on-one preliminary matches will be held. Kabuto opts to withdraw. When asked by Naruto, he claims to be too tired from his encounters with Dosu and Team Oboro to fight. When asked by Yoroi, he claims that this will give Yoroi and Misumi a chance to earn Orochimaru's favour. In truth, Kabuto is concerned that he won't be able to hold himself back in combat and that he'll end up blowing his cover; Orochimaru's presence in the audience also means Kabuto no longer needs to gather intel for him. Kabuto leaves with the [[Third Hokage]]'s permission, eager for his next encounter with Naruto and Sasuke.
=== Invasion of Konoha Arc ===
 
[[File:ANBU Kabuto.png|thumb|Kabuto is uncovered at the arena while disguising as an ANBU member.]]
 
During the final matches of the Chūnin Exam, Kabuto kills an ANBU member and poses as him to mingle with the audience. During Naruto and [[Neji Hyūga]]'s battle, he heals Hinata.
 
   
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[[File:Plotting Invasion.png|thumb|left|Kabuto meets with Baki.]]
When Sasuke injures [[Gaara]], Kabuto uses a [[Temple of Nirvana Technique|genjutsu]] to put the audience to sleep and signal the start of the invasion of Konoha. During the invasion, Kabuto has Oto ninja go after Naruto when he starts to pursue Sasuke, fearing what he will eventually become a problem if he is not dealt with soon. However, it appears he already knew it would fail as he wanted to test Naruto. He does not contribute in the battle, pointing out that Kakashi would only copy his abilities, and flees from the village when the invasion fails.
 
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Kabuto meets with Orochimaru after the preliminaries conclude. Although he doesn't want to trigger his long-term plans yet, Orochimaru is concerned about Sasuke's development, believing that Naruto is having too positive an influence on him. He sends Kabuto to capture Sasuke while it's still possible for Orochimaru to corrupt him. Kabuto locates Sasuke in the [[Konoha Hospital]] and kills his eight [[Anbu]] guards. He is discovered by [[Kakashi Hatake]] before he can accomplish his task and is forced to flee through the window. He meets with [[Baki]] of [[Sunagakure]] later that night to discuss their villages' planned invasion of Konoha. When they notice that their conversation is being listened to by [[Hayate Gekkō]], Kabuto offers to eliminate him, but Baki does so instead.
   
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A month later, during the final matches of the Chūnin Exams, Kabuto kills one of the Anbu guarding the stadium where the finals are being held. He disguises himself with the Anbu's clothes and mask so that he can infiltrate the stadium and watch Naruto's match. During the fight, [[Hinata Hyūga]] starts having a coughing fit—still recovering from her preliminary match with [[Neji Hyūga]] prior a month ago. Kabuto offers to treat her and she is healed, but falls unconscious; Kabuto knocks out [[Kiba Inuzuka]] and [[Akamaru]] as well.
=== Search for Tsunade Arc ===
 
[[File:Shizune and Kabuto clash.png|thumb|left|Kabuto clashes with Shizune.]]
 
With Orochimaru being heavily injured as a result of the failed invasion, Kabuto accompanies him in searching for [[Tsunade]] in the the hope that she can heal his master. Upon finding and in time seeming to persuade Tsunade, Kabuto notices that Tsunade's medical techniques are filled with killing intent, realising her true intentions and stopping her from killing Orochimaru. Knowing that Tsunade will not help willingly, Kabuto resolves to make him help with force. After taking a [[Military Rations Pill]] to boost his abilities, Kabuto is able to keep up with Tsunade and land a number of disabling attacks, though she eventually lands a crippling attack upon him. Realising that he is still completely outmatched by the Sannin member, Kabuto manages to turn the fight to his advantage by bleeding himself with a kunai to the hand and uses Tsunade's haemophobia against her.
 
   
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=== Konoha Crush ===
[[File:Attack! Fury of the Rasengan!.JPG|thumb|Naruto defeating Kabuto with Rasengan.]]
 
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{{main|Konoha Crush (Arc)|l1=Konoha Crush}}
When reinforcements for Tsunade arrive, Kabuto quickly defeats [[Shizune]] before Naruto arrives and surprised that Kabuto is a spy for Orochimaru. While he didn't view Naruto as much of a threat, warning him not to interfere and mocking his dream when beating the younger ninja to an inch of his life, Kabuto finds himself inflicted with injuries he can not fully heal from hit by Naruto's [[Rasengan]]. While Kabuto had managed to strike a fatal blow to Naruto's heart before the Rasengan hit him, Tsunade heals Naruto before he can die, leaving Kabuto to lie on the ground, defeated. He later recovers to the point of helping Orochimaru summon [[Manda]], and flees with his master once Orochimaru is defeated.
 
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[[File:Kabuto begins attack.png|thumb|Kabuto faces Konoha's defenders.]]
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The [[invasion of Konoha]] is supposed to be initiated by Suna's [[Gaara]]. When Gaara ends up being injured during his fight with Sasuke and thus left unable to fulfil his intended role, Kabuto initiates the invasion instead: he uses the [[Temple of Nirvana Technique]] to put most of the people in the stadium to sleep. Some of Konoha's forces are able to fend off his genjutsu and engage other Oto-nin that infiltrated the stadium. Kabuto, however, avoids fighting, and both he and Baki are eventually cornered by Kakashi and [[Might Guy]]. When he notices Orochimaru fleeing his own fight with the Third Hokage, Kabuto decides to flee as well and advises that Baki do the same.
   
=== Sasuke Retrieval Arc ===
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=== Search for Tsunade ===
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{{main|Search for Tsunade}}
As [[Orochimaru]] anxiously awaits Sasuke's arrival at their lair, Kabuto encourages him to [[Living Corpse Reincarnation|transfer into a new body]] while he still can, even offering himself. Although Orochimaru rejects the offer, Kabuto finds a strong body for Orochimaru to switch to just in case. In time, due to the Sound Four being hindered by the Konoha ninja sent after them and Sasuke, Orochimaru finally grows tired of waiting and switches to the [[Gen'yūmaru|vessel]]. While discussing the [[Sound Four]], Kabuto notes [[Sakon]] to be the strongest. Kabuto prepared. Kabuto also manipulated [[Kimimaro]] to leave to retrieve Sasuke, despite the latter's terminal illness.
 
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During the failed invasion, Orochimaru's arms are bound by the [[Dead Demon Consuming Seal]]. Kabuto tries healing them and, when that doesn't work, he provides Orochimaru with medicine for the pain, but those are also ineffective. With few other options available, Orochimaru has Kabuto locate [[Tsunade]], one of his fellow [[Sannin]]. Kabuto tracks her to [[Tanzaku Quarters]] and they go to meet her. Upon finding her, Orochimaru offers to [[Impure World Reincarnation|reincarnate]] her [[Nawaki|brother]] and [[Dan Katō|lover]] in exchange for her healing his arms. This proposal provokes Tsunade's attendant, [[Shizune]], into attacking Orochimaru with a [[Prepared Needle Shot]], which Kabuto blocks. When Tsunade displays a certain willingness to attack them herself, Orochimaru sheds some of his own blood, paralysing her due to her [[wikipedia:hemophobia|hemophobia]]. He and Kabuto leave, giving Tsunade a week to decide.
   
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[[File:Shizune and Kabuto clash.png|thumb|left|Kabuto facing Shizune.]]
== Part II ==
 
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As they return to Tanzaku Quarters a week later, Orochimaru is confident that Tsunade will heal his arms. However, he believes Shizune may represent an issue, so he sends Kabuto to kill her. Kabuto finds her in the company of Naruto and [[Jiraiya]], another Sannin, forcing him to withdraw and return to Orochimaru. He arrives in time to stop Tsunade's apparent healing of Orochimaru's arms, having noticed her killing intent. Since she won't cooperate, Orochimaru decides that they must fight her and take her by force, though because of his arms, he relies on Kabuto to do the actual fighting; they draw her away from the city so that Shizune and the others can't help her.
=== Sasuke and Sai Arc ===
 
[[File:Summoning scroll for corpses.PNG|thumb|left|Kabuto's corpse summoning scroll.]]
 
When [[Team Yamato]] comes to meet one of Sasori's agents, Kabuto is revealed to be that agent. [[Yamato]], disguised as Sasori, is able to learn some things from Kabuto, though just as he is about to capture the latter Orochimaru shows up. Although it seems as though Orochimaru is about to kill Kabuto as a traitor, Kabuto cuts off the Sasori disguise's head, having intended to kill the actual Sasori under Orochimaru's orders. With his cover blown, Yamato calls to the rest of his team for assistance, and Naruto eventually starts to fight Orochimaru. At the start of the battle, Kabuto tries to attack Naruto who has slipped into his three-tailed form, though he is almost instantly repelled a good distance by one of Naruto's [[Tailed Beast Shockwave|roars]], knocking out Sakura in the process. He returns back to the bridge and heals Sakura, who had been attacked by Naruto, and hints that the Akatsuki is the greater enemy.
 
   
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Because of how strong Tsunade's attacks are, Kabuto stays out of her reach as much as he can, only striking when he can get in a [[Chakra Scalpel|disabling blow]]. Tsunade heals all the damage he does to her and Kabuto similarly recovers from her [[Body Pathway Derangement|counterattacks]]. When they are found by Shizune, Jiraiya, and Naruto, Kabuto slits his wrists so that Tsunade is paralysed with fear and thus unable to fight back. Naruto is confused by Kabuto's presence, slow to realise he's working for Orochimaru; Kabuto informs him that it's this sort of ignorance that prevents him from matching Sasuke. Naruto attacks him with shadow clones, which Kabuto easily fends off. He then fights Shizune, quickly knocking her out while he attempts to restrain Tsunade. Naruto stops him and tries attacking with the [[Rasengan]], but he lacks full mastery of it and misses.
After the battle, Kabuto joins Orochimaru and Team Yamato member [[Sai]] in returning to their hideout, and Kabuto is tasked with leaving behind a dead body that looks like Sai to prevent anyone from following them. When Sai is later captured, Kabuto comes to his aid, only to be captured by Sai instead. Unable to escape, Kabuto is forthcoming with information, and discourages Naruto from trying to retrieve the traitorous Sasuke. Kabuto is left by himself as Team 7 searches the lair, though is at some point freed and joins Orochimaru and Sasuke when they depart.
 
   
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[[File:Naruto vs. Kabuto.png|thumb|Kabuto struck with Naruto's Rasengan.]]
=== Three-Tails Arc ===
 
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Kabuto tries to convince Naruto to give up, as otherwise he will be killed and thus left unable to achieve his dream of becoming [[Hokage]]. Naruto refuses, so Kabuto attacks with a kunai. Naruto catches the kunai and latches on to Kabuto's hand, preventing him from escaping while Naruto strikes with another Rasengan. Kabuto is propelled backwards and tries healing the damage with his [[Yin Healing Wound Destruction]], but the damage is too extensive and he collapses. Naruto also collapses, Kabuto having severed his heart muscles when the Rasengan hit him; he boasts that nothing can be done to save Naruto, but Tsunade is able to successfully heal him. The fight is now left to Orochimaru and Kabuto helps him [[Summoning Technique|summon]] [[Manda]]. Tsunade overcomes her haemophobia and defeats both Manda and Orochimaru, forcing him and Kabuto to retreat.
{{Main|Three-Tails Arc}}
 
[[File:Crystal Needles.jpg|thumb|Kabuto immobilised by Guren's crystal needles.]]
 
Realising that the time was fast approaching for him to change bodies, Orochimaru sent Kabuto to fetch [[Guren]]. When Kabuto nears her location Guren attacks him to see if he is worthy of being Orochimaru's attendant. Satisfied, she accompanies him to Orochimaru's lair and is left in charge of testing the prisoners there and forming a team.
 
   
  +
=== Sasuke Recovery Mission ===
When Guren and her team fail to kill a group of Konoha ninja, Kabuto has them help in summoning the [[Three-Tailed Beast]]. Kabuto ordered Guren to restrain it with her [[Crystal Release]]. When she proves unable to do so, Kabuto retreats upon realising he needs to rethink their strategy.
 
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{{main|Sasuke Recovery Mission}}
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Since Tsunade won't help, the only way for Orochimaru to heal his arms is to [[Living Corpse Reincarnation|transfer to a new body]], which he selects Sasuke's for. He sends the [[Sound Four]] to recruit Sasuke and Kabuto tends to him while he waits. The Sound Four end up taking too long and Kabuto takes it upon himself to find a different body: he has several of their prisoners fight each other to the death, with Orochimaru taking the body of the victor, [[Gen'yūmaru]]. While Orochimaru does that, Kabuto talks to [[Kimimaro]], reminding him that Orochimaru's current predicament is his fault since he became ill, thus making him unsuitable as Orochimaru's new body. This compels Kimimaro to go retrieve Sasuke as his last act of service, which Orochimaru characterises as cruel of Kabuto when he learns of it.
   
  +
Sasuke does eventually arrive at their lair, though Kimimaro and the Sound Four have all died. When Sasuke acts disrespectful towards Orochimaru, Kabuto advises him on proper etiquette, to which Sasuke responds with killing intent; Kabuto is surprised by this and Orochimaru is pleased.
Later, he begins preparations for a final attempt to capture the Three-Tails during which he secretly meets with [[Rinji]], who is revealed to be a spy for Kabuto. After learning that Konoha has begun attempting to seal away the Three-Tails, Kabuto retrieves Guren and [[Yūkimaru]] to stop them.
 
   
  +
== Part II ==
While successfully stopping the Konoha shinobi from sealing the Three-Tails, they manage to obtain Yūkimaru, much to Kabuto's dismay. Deciding to take desperate measures, Kabuto tricked [[Kigiri]], [[Kihō]], and [[Nurari]] into thinking they were dying from the injuries they sustained from the Konoha-nin and convinced them to go through a gruelling operation of having [[Orochimaru's Juinjutsu|cursed seals]] forcibly activated.
 
  +
=== Tenchi Bridge Reconnaissance Mission ===
  +
{{main|Tenchi Bridge Reconnaissance Mission}}
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[[File:Kabuto attacks Yamato.png|thumb|left|Kabuto attacks "Sasori".]]
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Over two-and-a-half years after Sasuke joins forces with Orochimaru, Kabuto is summoned to meet with [[Sasori]] at the [[Tenchi Bridge]] in [[Kusagakure]]. Pretending to be his loyal agent, Kabuto answers Sasori's questions about Sasuke, telling him that he's at Orochimaru's nearby base. Orochimaru confronts them during their meeting and Kabuto retreats closer to Sasori. While Sasori talks to Orochimaru and prepares to fight him alongside Kabuto, Kabuto cuts through Sasori's [[puppet]], [[Hiruko]]. Having never seen the real Sasori before, Kabuto initially believes the [[Yamato|man]] inside Hiruko is him, but when Naruto and the rest of Team 7 join Yamato he realises his mistake. Orochimaru taunts Naruto about his desire to see Sasuke again, provoking him into using the [[Nine-Tails]]' chakra. Kabuto attempts to attack him, but Naruto easily blasts him away with a mere roar.
   
  +
Once he recovers, Kabuto approaches Yamato and [[Sakura Haruno]] and asks if their presence here means that Sasori is dead, which they confirm. He watches Naruto's fight with Orochimaru, observing that Naruto's [[version 2]] form is proof of how desperate he is to retrieve Sasuke. When Naruto, not in control of his actions, injures Sakura, Kabuto heals her wound as his thanks for their killing Sasori and thus weakening [[Akatsuki]]. While Yamato restrains Naruto, Kabuto goes looking for Orochimaru and finds him with Team 7's other member, [[Sai]]. He initially assumes that Sai means to attack Orochimaru and therefore tackles him, but Orochimaru informs him that Sai is an ally and they take him back to their base. They notice that the rest of Team 7 is following them, apparently because of Sai, so Kabuto prepares a fake dead body that looks like Sai for them to leave behind and throw Team 7 off their trail.
He then disguises himself as Rinji, tricks Yūkimaru to use his power to unleash the Three-Tails' full might despite knowing how weakened Yūkimaru was. After a failed attempt to have Yūkimaru make the Three-Tails go on a rampage, Kabuto, disguised as Rinji, reveals to Yūkimaru that it was Guren who killed his mother, but is shocked that Yūkimaru forgives her. He then attacks Guren and Yūkimaru with scalpels, but are deflected by Naruto. Naruto throws one of the scalpels cuts Rinji's face which turns out to be a mask and it falls off, revealing that he is Kabuto.
 
   
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[[File:Sai turns on Kabuto.png|thumb|Sai turns on Kabuto.]]
Since his meeting with Rinji, Kabuto has been posing as him. Kabuto and Naruto fight it out, with Naruto having improved enough to seemingly gain the upper hand over Kabuto. As Guren tries to escape with Yūkimaru, Kabuto then summons Rinji with his Dead Soul Technique to stop her. Guren fights him, only to be immobilised by his bats. Guren who made her promise to protect Yūkimaru at the cost of her life grabs Rinji from behind and sacrifice herself to kill him. Yūkimaru then screams in agony at what appears to be the loss of Guren. The screaming once again awakens Yūkimaru powers and causes the Three-Tails to breaks out of the seal and go on a rampage. Kabuto then leaves the scene satisfied with what was happening.
 
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When they get back to their base, Kabuto finds a room for Sai to stay in and then leaves to analyse the intel that Sai has given them. He accidentally leaves the intel in Sai's room and goes back for it, but both Sai and the intel are gone. He tracks Sai down and finds he's been captured by the rest of Team 7. Kabuto releases Sai from his confinements, defeats Naruto's shadow clones, and requests Sai's help in fighting Team 7, but Sai restrains him instead. When asked, Kabuto is forthcoming with information about where to find Sasuke, though he warns them against it since they may draw out Orochimaru. Yamato leaves behind a [[wood clone]] to guard Kabuto while they go searching. Orochimaru eventually finds and frees him and they go to find Sasuke, arriving in time to stop him from killing Team 7. Kabuto recommends Sasuke spare them since they may further weaken Akatsuki, which he agrees with. Kabuto then departs with Orochimaru and Sasuke.
   
=== Itachi Pursuit Arc ===
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=== Three-Tails' Appearance ===
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{{Main|Three-Tails' Appearance}}
[[File:Orochi In Kabuto2.PNG|thumb|left|Kabuto partially taken over by Orochimaru's remains.]]
 
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In the anime, as Orochimaru's body starts to reject him, he instructs Kabuto to bring him [[Guren]]. Guren challenges Kabuto to a fight as he nears her location in order to test if he is worthy to serve Orochimaru. He meets with her approval and she accompanies him to Orochimaru. Orochimaru offers Guren an opportunity to replace Sasuke as his next body if she can prove herself on a mission; Kabuto is tasked with gathering a team for her from their assorted prisoners. Guren ends up failing her mission, so Kabuto is sent to give her another task: help him capture the [[Three-Tails]]. Guren fails to restrain the Three-Tails with her [[crystal release]] and [[Yūkimaru]], whose abilities are essential in capturing the Three-Tails, is himself captured by Konoha-nin.
Arriving after Orochimaru's defeat at the hands of Sasuke, Kabuto learns of the events from Sasuke using his genjutsu to reveal his master's defeat. With Orochimaru no more, Kabuto gathered the remnants of Orochimaru's body and assimilates them into his body. However, Kabuto finds himself struggling to keep control of his body. When he later confronts Naruto, revealing the boy's struggle with [[Kurama]] as his muse, Kabuto explains his reasons for placing himself in a dangerous position is to become strong enough to no longer be anyone's underling. Giving Naruto a book containing Orochimaru's information on Akatsuki as thanks, Kabuto departs before he can be apprehended while vowing to settle things with Naruto after he avenges Orochimaru by killing Sasuke. Since then, Kabuto went into hiding to obtain control over his enhanced body and the powers it would possess.
 
   
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With things becoming desperate, Kabuto tricks members of Guren's team into undergoing operations that will forcibly activate their [[Orochimaru's Juinjutsu|cursed seals]]. He also kills and impersonates [[Rinji]], and in that role tries to manipulate Yūkimaru into unleashing the Three-Tails against Guren and Konoha's forces. Yūkimaru refuses to do so, prompting Kabuto to attack him; Naruto counters the attack and, in the process, exposes the Rinji disguise. While Kabuto fights Naruto, he uses Rinji's [[Dead Soul Technique|reanimated]] body to attack Guren, neutralising her crystal release with Rinji's [[bat]]s. Guren seemingly gives her life to defeat Rinji and Yūkimaru, overcome with grief, finally unleashes the Three-Tails. Kabuto leaves, satisfied with what's happened.
=== Konoha History Arc ===
 
{{Main|Konoha History Arc}}
 
After Naruto Uzumaki defeats [[Sabiru]], Kabuto, hidden in some trees, kills him by throwing a presumably poisoned senbon to the back of his neck, so no information regarding who he works for would be leaked.
 
   
=== Chikara Arc ===
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=== Itachi Pursuit Mission ===
  +
{{main|Itachi Pursuit Mission}}
{{Main|Chikara Arc}}
 
[[File:Body Recreation Technique 1.png|thumb|left|Kabuto creating a new Hidan.]]
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[[File:Kabuto infusing Orochimaru's blood.png|thumb|left|Kabuto injecting himself with Orochimaru's remains.]]
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With Orochimaru's body on the verge of failure, Kabuto prepares the strongest medication he can to help him cope with the pain. As he's away getting the medicine ready, he notes that Orochimaru will need to take Sasuke's body within the next day or two, though he doubts Sasuke will be cooperative. When he returns, he finds Sasuke leaving Orochimaru's room, with Orochimaru's body now lying abandoned. Kabuto asks Sasuke who he is, unable to tell if the body transfer was successful or not. Sasuke uses [[Genjutsu: Sharingan]] to show Kabuto how he overpowered Orochimaru's consciousness and absorbed it into his own. Kabuto is surprised by this and Sasuke leaves without further comment.
In the anime, still adapting to his new power during the aftermath of the [[Five Kage Summit Arc|Five Kage Summit]], Kabuto somehow entered the [[Nara Clan Forest|Nara forest]] and scrounged the genetic material of Akatsuki's [[Hidan]] as well as his [[Triple-Bladed Scythe]]. He also raided the resting places of various ninjas like [[Asuma Sarutobi]], [[Hayate Gekkō]], and [[Deidara]] to reanimate them as his servants. Not long after invading the [[Tonika Village]] to gain access to [[The Hole]], Kabuto confronted [[Naruto Uzumaki]] and [[Sakura Haruno]] who had been sent to investigate the incident. Kabuto used his regenerating snakes to create a new Hidan, devoid of the original's personality and he ordered the clone to attack [[Team Kakashi]] as Sai and Yamato joined the fray.<ref name="ship290"/>
 
   
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Kabuto later tracks down Naruto, who is in the company of Yamato and [[Hinata Hyūga]]. He confirms to Naruto the rumours that Sasuke has killed Orochimaru and then gives him a book with all the intel that he and Orochimaru have gathered on Akatsuki over the years. When Naruto and the others can't understand why he would do this, he explains that it is a present for Naruto, partly to help Naruto in his own confrontations with Akatsuki and partly out of gratitude. He tells them how lost he felt after Orochimaru's death, having identified himself in terms of Orochimaru for so long, in the same way that Naruto was once identified in terms of the Nine-Tails. Naruto, however, was able to forge out on his own and establish himself as independent of the Nine-Tails; Kabuto now intends to follow his example and establish himself as greater than Orochimaru.
[[File:Kabuto talking to a scroll.png|thumb|right|Kabuto talking to the scroll.]]
 
However, noting that he has not fully mastered [[Impure World Reincarnation]] when unable to summon Asuma's casket, Kabuto decides to fall back with Deidara providing a distraction. While fleeing, Kabuto captures a Tonika Village guard and his pawns. He is later seen perfecting his technique as he is talking to a scroll which gives him the command to capture Naruto using the tiny snakes he ingested. However, after his scheme with a reincarnated [[Tonika Village Head]] failed and he attempts to control the [[Version 2 Naruto Clone|Naruto clone]] created from the vomited tiny snakes, Kabuto finds himself unable to control the more powerful clone and fall back while taking Naruto and [[Dokku]] into Tonika Village's Underground hall to meet with [[Disonasu]].
 
   
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[[File:Orochimaru's remains taking over Kabuto.PNG|thumb|Orochimaru's remains taking over Kabuto's body.]]
=== Confining the Jinchūriki Arc ===
 
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Kabuto shows them how he has grafted Orochimaru's remains into his body, which Hinata notices with her [[Byakugan]] are in the process of taking control of him. Kabuto claims that the remains themselves make him stronger, as does the constant struggle to keep them at bay. Naruto and the others try capturing him, but he retreats, vowing to fight Naruto once he's mastered Orochimaru's powers and also dealt with Sasuke. Kabuto further crafts himself over the following weeks and months: he uses his research of different human test subjects to modify his body; he finds [[Ryūchi Cave]] and learns [[senjutsu]] from the [[White Snake Sage]];<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 579, pages 11-12</ref> he acquires DNA samples of various dead ninja, some of which, in the anime, he or Orochimaru already possessed;<ref name="ship316" /> [[Black Zetsu]] meets him at some point and shows him the corpse of [[Madara Uchiha]].<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 681, page 15</ref>
[[File:Kabuto Returns.png|thumb|left|Kabuto makes his return.]]
 
After killing three [[Takigakure]] shinobi to test his control over his fully mastered powers, Kabuto heads towards the [[Mountains' Graveyard]] while leaving a trail of bodies that the [[Anko]]-led [[Infiltration and Reconnaissance Party]] use to follow him.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 487, page 17</ref> Once there he confronts [[Tobi]], who is operating as "Madara Uchiha". Remembering that Kabuto was once Akatsuki's spy, Tobi tries to kill him for his traitorous actions. Kabuto responds by using the [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation]] to reincarnate five deceased members of Akatsuki, an incentive for Tobi to accept his help in the approaching [[Fourth Shinobi World War]]. In return, Kabuto asks that he be given Sasuke to learn the truth about ninjutsu.
 
   
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=== Power ===
[[File:The Sixth Coffin.png|thumb|Kabuto blackmails Tobi.]]
 
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{{Main|Power (Arc)|l1=Power}}
Tobi asks what would happen if he doesn't accept, to which Kabuto responds by summoning [[Madara Uchiha|a sixth coffin]]. Greatly disturbed by the coffin's contents, Tobi was forced to agree, though insists upon the condition that he not turn over Sasuke until after the war. The two head off to reformulate their war plans.<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 490, page 8</ref> In the anime, as Tobi was about to leave [[Mountains' Graveyard]], Kabuto stops him and asks where he was going. Tobi replies that it was none of his concern, but tells him that he was going to [[Amegakure]], to which Kabuto gives a devious smile after their brief conversation.
 
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[[File:Body Recreation Technique 1.png|thumb|left|Kabuto creating a clone of Hidan.]]
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In the anime, Kabuto is hired by [[Disonasu]] to help him access the [[Ama no Hoko]]. He attacks [[Tonika Village]] with reincarnated pawns and slaughters most of the villagers in preparation for awakening the Ama no Hoko, which soon draws the attention of Team 7. He's able to [[Body Recreation Technique|create a clone]] of [[Hidan]] to attack them, but the forces he raises with the [[Impure World Reincarnation]] are unresponsive to his commands. He decides to retreat, leaving behind a reincarnated [[Deidara]] as a distraction while he tries to figure out a way improve his control of the Impure World Reincarnation.
   
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After figuring out a way to allow reincarnated individuals to retain their personalities, Kabuto sneaks into the [[Hachō Village]] by reincarnating the [[Tonika Village Head]]. They try making the final preparations for restoring the Ama no Hoko, but they are discovered by the village head's [[Miina|granddaughter]] and Kabuto is drawn into another battle with Team 7. During the fight, a [[Nine-Tailed Naruto Clone]] emerges, having been inadvertently created during Kabuto's previous fight with Naruto. With some difficulty, Kabuto is able to capture the clone, the original Naruto, and [[Dokku]]. He brings them to Disonasu, who is now able to activate the Ama no Hoko. Konoha ninja start attacking and Kabuto uses his reincarnated forces to fight them off, but they are interrupted by the Naruto clone's sudden mutation. While the others deal with the clone, Kabuto quietly leaves.
[[File:Kabuto heads out.png|thumb|left|Kabuto and Deidara head out to find the jinchūriki.]]
 
When Tobi receives intel on the location of the [[Eight-Tails]] and [[Nine-Tails]], Kabuto offers to go capture them. Kabuto explains that he is interested in studying Yamato, the Nine-Tails' guardian. If Tobi would he prefer he not go, Kabuto says he would settle for a chance to study [[Zetsu]]. Tobi replies that he can have his own Zetsu to study if he manages to catch the Nine-Tails. Kabuto reincarnates [[Deidara]] and together they fly to the [[Island Turtle]] upon one of Deidara's clay birds. As they get closer to the island Deidara creates [[clay clone]]s of themselves, which the intercepting [[Third Tsuchikage]] attacks. The time this buys is short-lived, as the Tsuchikage himself was a [[rock clone]]; the Tsuchikage and his escorts confront the real Kabuto and Deidara.
 
   
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After the fighting is over, Kabuto locates the dying Disonasu and summons the Tonika Village Head, who he allows to finish Disonasu off in order to have revenge. Kabuto afterwards sheds his skin, having finally gotten Orochimaru's power under control.
While Deidara and the Tsuchikage exchange insults, [[Manda II]] seeks out and slows down the Island Turtle. To keep it from moving, Kabuto has Deidara hit it with an [[Explosive Clay|explosive squid]]. Kabuto goes ashore, leaving distracting the Tsuchikage to Deidara. [[Kurotsuchi]] pursues Kabuto and manages to catch him. Yamato then appears, creating a route for [[Aoba Yamashiro]] to get close to Kabuto and [[Mind Reading|read his mind]]. Before Aoba is able to begin doing so, Kabuto sheds his captured body and kidnaps Yamato. He retreats into Manda II's nose and returns to Tobi, recalling Deidara in the process. When Tobi questions his failure, Kabuto explains that studying Yamato will allow him to make the [[White Zetsu Army]] stronger. Tobi accepts this explanation and tells Kabuto to get to work.
 
   
=== Shinobi World War Arc ===
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=== Fourth Shinobi World War: Countdown ===
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{{main|Fourth Shinobi World War: Countdown}}
[[File:Anko and Kabuto clash.png|thumb|Kabuto and Anko clash.]]
 
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[[File:Kabuto Blackmails Tobi.png|thumb|Kabuto blackmails Tobi.]]
Proposing to keep the drugged Yamato alive that he could further strengthen the [[White Zetsu Army]], Kabuto assures Tobi that his truth and the latter's [[Sharingan]] are less unnecessary than Tobi's [[Human Path]] ability in extracting information from their captive. After their forces amassed and modifications completed, Kabuto mobilises his [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation|reincarnated]] shinobi to the main battlefield, except those he assembled into his [[Surprise Attack and Diversion Platoon]]. After instructing the latter, Kabuto himself departs, capturing the surveying [[Anko]] after a brief battle. When Tobi later demands her death, Kabuto refuses on the grounds that the traces of [[Orochimaru]]'s [[chakra]] in her could help improve his control over the reincarnated shinobi, which was in their best interests.
 
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Once he's confident that he's mastered Orochimaru's powers, Kabuto travels to the [[Mountains' Graveyard]] to confront [[Tobi]] of Akatsuki, who has been using the name of Madara Uchiha in order to start the [[Fourth Shinobi World War]]. Tobi recognises Kabuto as a former spy of Sasori, so he tries to kill him for betraying Akatsuki. Kabuto responds by using the Impure World Reincarnation to revive five deceased Akatsuki members, which he offers to use to help Tobi in the approaching war. Tobi asks what Kabuto would want in exchange for this alliance, to which Kabuto responds he wants Sasuke. When Tobi contemplates refusing, Kabuto summons the real Madara Uchiha, forcing Tobi to agree. He stipulates, however, that Kabuto can't have Sasuke until after the war is won, which Kabuto agrees to.
   
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Tobi incorporates Kabuto and his reincarnated army into his war plans. When they later receive intel on the location of Naruto and [[Killer B]] - whose capture is the reason Tobi started the war - Kabuto offers to capture them himself if Tobi will show him the [[White Zetsu Army]]. Tobi complies, also showing him the [[Demonic Statue of the Outer Path]] and the [[Hashirama's Artificial Body|biomass]] of [[Hashirama Senju]] that the Zetsus are cultivated from. Satisfied, Kabuto reincarnates [[Deidara]] and together they fly to the [[Island Turtle]]. As they approach, they draw the patrolling [[Third Tsuchikage]] away, creating an opening for a simultaneous attack on the island by Kabuto's [[Manda II]] and Deidara's [[Explosive Clay]].
[[File:Kabuto Demonstrates Edo Tensei.png|thumb|left|Kabuto demonstrates his technique to Tobi.]]
 
Complying with Tobi's request to gain his approval, Kabuto demonstrates his [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation|technique]] using [[Fū (ANBU)|Fū]] as a sacrifice to reincarnate [[Torune]], accompanying it with a step-by-step explanation and a few methods able to halt the flawless technique before leaving an apparently satisfied Tobi. However, Kabuto was unconcerned by his recent admissions, due to the possession of another technique and the prospect of soon learning the secrets of the [[Sage of Six Paths]]. A now-isolated Kabuto then started to [[Chakra Draining Seal|drain]] Orochimaru's chakra from Anko, acquiring an incredible increase in power, just as a number of the reincarnated shinobi encounter the [[Third Division]] and erases their conscious minds prior to the fight actually beginning.
 
   
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[[File:Transformed Kabuto took Yamato.png|thumb|left|Kabuto capturing Yamato.]]
After seeing how retaining their emotions could cause the reincarnated shinobi's defeat, Kabuto remotely subdues a multitude with the exception of those whose individualities may present an [[Wikipedia:Psychological warfare|advantage]]. Directly interfering as the need arises, he later has [[Gari]] and [[Pakura]] [[Summoning Technique|summon]] the previous generation of the [[Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist]], to retain the [[Akatsuki]]'s superiority. However, despite having [[Haku]] intercept [[Kakashi]] and much to his shock, [[Zabuza Momochi]] and his crucial [[Hiding in Mist Technique|technique]] are ultimately defeated.
 
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Deidara drops Kabuto off on the Island Turtle and then keeps the Tsuchikage busy so that Kabuto can find Naruto and B. He is quickly found by Naruto's guards and his body is bound by [[Kurotsuchi]]. Believing Kabuto's been captured, [[Aoba Yamashiro]] approaches him with the intention of [[Psycho Mind Transmission|reading his mind]] to see what he knows about Akatsuki. In short order, Kabuto sheds his skin to get free, captures [[Yamato]], and takes refuge within Manda II's nose; Manda II escapes and Kabuto withdraws Deidara. Tobi is angry with Kabuto when he returns since he wanted Naruto and B, not Yamato. Kabuto explains that studying Yamato's [[wood release]] will allow him to make the White Zetsu Army stronger. He adds that Yamato has intel they can use, which finally convinces Tobi.
   
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=== Fourth Shinobi World War: Confrontation ===
Elsewhere with [[Mū]]'s discovery on approach to the [[Fourth Division]], Kabuto has him summon the [[Fourth Kazekage]], [[Second Mizukage]] and [[Third Raikage]], just as more of his forces engage the [[First Division]]. He then leaves them to their own devices, believing that taking their identities could hinder their fighting capabilities. This backfires in the case of [[Hanzō]], who contradicts Kabuto's control before he can intervene, handing victory to the opposing [[Fifth Division]]. When Tobi goes out of the way to acquire the sealed [[Gold and Silver Brothers]] from the Allied Forces, Kabuto deduces that Tobi wants the Nine-Tails chakra within them yet his realisation that Tobi only has one of the [[Eight-Tails]]' tails confuses him on Tobi's intentions.
 
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{{main|Fourth Shinobi World War: Confrontation}}
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[[File:Anko and Kabuto clash.png|thumb|Kabuto and Anko clash.]]
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Once all their preparations are completed, Kabuto and Tobi mobilise their respective armies against the [[Allied Shinobi Forces]]. While Tobi is busy overseeing that, Kabuto locates [[Anko Mitarashi]] nearby, who he led to the Mountains' Graveyard with a trail of dead bodies. Kabuto captures her after a brief fight. Tobi discovers this and demands that Kabuto kill her. Kabuto refuses, explaining that he can use her [[Cursed Seal of Heaven]] to strengthen his use of the Impure World Reincarnation, which is in Tobi's interests. Tobi stipulates that he'll only allow this if Kabuto thoroughly demonstrates how the Impure World Reincarnation works, and to that end instructs him to reincarnate [[Torune Aburame]] using [[Fū Yamanaka]] as a sacrifice. Kabuto complies and Tobi is satisfied. Kabuto afterwards takes the opportunity to request Tobi's help in reincarnating [[Shisui Uchiha]] and [[Jiraiya]], which Tobi refuses.
   
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Kabuto relocates to a remote area to start monitoring his reincarnated forces. When several encounter the Allied Shinobi Forces' [[Third Division]], Kabuto drains the chakra from Anko's cursed seal to fully suppress his reincarnated forces' personalities, turning them into pure killing machines. He's very satisfied with the causalities that the Third Division suffer, so he sends all of his [[Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist]] to join the battle. Exerting so much control over his combatants requires a great deal of effort on Kabuto's part, for which reason he allows his other forces to retain their personalities and uses other tactics instead: when the [[Second Tsuchikage]] is discovered by the [[Fourth Division]], Kabuto sends the [[Second Mizukage]], [[Third Raikage]], and [[Fourth Kazekage]] to reinforce him; against the [[First Division]], he sends a number of individuals whose reincarnation will unnerve members of the Allied Shinobi Forces, thus potentially making them less effective.
[[File:Kabuto tongue.png|thumb|Kabuto sticking his tongue out, reminiscent of his old master.]]
 
Later, during the second day of the War, he reacted in shock when [[Naruto Uzumaki]] uses his [[Nine-Tails Chakra Mode]] to instantly defeat [[Toroi]] with a [[Rasengan]]. Pleased at the prospect of finding Naruto and Killer B before Tobi, he decides to send [[Itachi]] and Nagato after them so he can use the two jinchūriki as further leverage on Tobi. However, to Kabuto's surprise, Itachi uses his [[Mangekyō Sharingan]] to summon the [[Itachi's Crow|crow]] he had implanted within Naruto to free himself from Kabuto's control and attacks Nagato. After Nagato is sealed, a visibly angered Kabuto curses Nagato's lack of mobility due to his injured legs, and comments that he was unable to see the last attack due to Itachi blinding the [[Giant Snake-Tailed Chameleon]] and [[King of Hell]] with kunai. He then resigns himself to unleashing his "''prized possession''", the trump card he used to force Tobi into their alliance.
 
   
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Kabuto's forces have mixed results: though the Third Division experiences heavy losses, they are able to figure out an effective, if slow, way of defeating the reincarnated forces; the Fourth Division chooses to retreat from the reincarnated [[Kage]]; the First Division defeats or captures all of their reincarnated opponents, most notably Kabuto's [[Gold and Silver Brothers]]. He sends [[Hanzō]] against [[Mifune]] of the [[Fifth Division]], expecting an easy victory, but Hanzō deliberately creates an opportunity for the Fifth Division to capture him and Kabuto doesn't suppress his personality in time to stop him. On the first night of the war, Tobi takes the captured Gold and Silver Brothers from the First Division, which Kabuto guesses to mean he's getting impatient with his [[Eye of the Moon Plan|plan]]s. When he learns that Naruto and Killer B have left their confinements, Kabuto becomes determined to capture them so that he can use them as leverage against Tobi.
Using the [[Third Raikage]] as diversion to hold off a part of the [[Fourth Division]] to make the preparations, Kabuto eradicates the Raikage's personality before setting his sights on the acquisition of Naruto with the Raikage's "''[[Hell Stab|strongest spear]]''" as a last resort. Soon after, though Kabuto is relieved that "Mū" was sealed before he could reveal his [[Splitting Technique|means of escape]] to Ōnoki, it took more time before Kabuto can finally get to utilising his ace: [[Madara Uchiha]]. Explaining that he knew he survived his battle at the [[Valley of the End]], Kabuto reveals to Madara that he knows the general idea his plan with Tobi while informing the reincarnated ninja of the changes that occurred in his absence. Visibly pleased with having control over the battlefield, Kabuto has Mū help Madara in attacking remainder of the [[Fourth Division]] before the five Kage appear. Having Mū evade the [[Hokage Guard Platoon]] and [[Dodai]], Kabuto reveals the enhancements he made on Madara using a genetic sample of [[Hashirama]] to make him a power near equal to the [[Sage of Six Paths]].
 
   
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Kabuto sends [[Nagato]] and [[Itachi Uchiha]] against Naruto and B, expecting that their respective [[Rinnegan]] and [[Mangekyō Sharingan]] will overpower Naruto and B. Itachi, however, is able to [[Kotoamatsukami|remove]] Kabuto's control over him and teams up with Naruto and B against Nagato. Kabuto attempts to temporarily kill Naruto and B with Nagato while he tries to regain control of Itachi, but Nagato is defeated. Meanwhile, the Fourth Division finally starts fighting the reincarnated Kage, eventually defeating each of them with the help of one of Naruto's shadow clones. With his forces dwindling, Kabuto decides he'll need to use his "trump card". In the anime, the trump card requires preparation, so he tries different ways of buying time: he sends [[Hayate Gekkō]] to acquire DNA samples of dead members of the Allied Shinobi Forces so that he can reincarnate them, but this fails; he sends a force led by Torune Aburame to release the captured reincarnated ninja from their bindings, but this fails as well.
[[File:Itachi confronts Kabuto.png|thumb|left|Kabuto is found by Itachi.]]
 
With his location uncovered by Itachi, Kabuto commends him for doing so despite the [[barrier]] he had erected, before being told that the source of where his chakra came from could be vividly felt whilst under his control. Reminding Itachi that he couldn't be killed if he sought to stop the technique, Kabuto breaks into maniacal laughter upon sensing Sasuke and declares that his luck had finally changed. Excited that his [[Sasuke|reward]] for his part in the war had come to him by choice, he tells Itachi that he'd love to explain the Impure World Reincarnation technique at length, but that he didn't think Sasuke would stay quiet for that long. He then tries to use Sasuke's hatred to tempt him into assisting with Itachi's defeat, however, Sasuke instead chooses to side with his brother. With this, Kabuto prepares for battle stating that it'd be an interesting event.
 
   
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=== Fourth Shinobi World War: Climax ===
[[File:Kabuto's Sage Mode.jpg|thumb|Kabuto enters Sage Mode.]]
 
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{{main|Fourth Shinobi World War: Climax}}
Closing his hood, he states that he was an introverted person and as such, was unsettled by so many people staring at him, before sending his snakes towards Sasuke and Itachi. Although the brothers are able to fend off the attack, Kabuto uses this opportunity to hide in one of his snakes, where he then discloses the unique abilities that he gained from his experimentation on Sasuke's [[Taka|former team-mates]]: [[Karin]]'s [[Heal Bite|healing abilities]], a similar ability to [[Suigetsu]]'s [[Hydrification Technique|ability to transform into water]] and [[Jūgo]]'s ability to absorb [[natural energy]]. After revealing that he had both found and trained at the [[Ryūchi Cave]], he narrowly evades Sasuke's [[Susanoo Bow|attack]], stating that his perception skills had been greatly enhanced as well. Emerging from the snake's mouth, he reveals that he had finally surpassed Orochimaru upon becoming a [[sage]] and declares that he was no longer an imperfect snake, but instead — a dragon.
 
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Although the Second Tsuchikage was apparently defeated and captured, he [[Fission Technique|split apart]] at the last moment without the Fourth Division's notice. Kabuto takes control of the uncaptured half of the Tsuchikage and through him summons to the battlefield his trump card: [[Madara Uchiha]]. He uses the Tsuchikage to speak to Madara, introducing himself, explaining the modifications he's made to Madara's body (his youth, his Rinnegan, and a graft of Hashirama Senju), and requesting a demonstration of Madara's powers. Madara complies, and after destroying much of the Fourth Division he asks Kabuto why Tobi hasn't kept to their plans. Because Kabuto doesn't know what exactly their plans are he can't give an answer, but he knows Madara requires the Nine-Tails and so directs him to Naruto. Madara then turns his attention to fighting the Allied Shinobi Forces and Kabuto relinquishes his control of the Tsuchikage.
   
[[File:Hakugeki.png|thumb|left|Kabuto attacks Sasuke and Itachi with his Sage Art: White Rage Technique.]]
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[[File:Kabuto vs Uchiha.png|thumb|left|Kabuto faces Sasuke and Itachi.]]
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Kabuto monitors Madara's fight until he is found in his cave by Itachi (using information received earlier from Nagato). Itachi states his intentions to kill Kabuto in order to end the Impure World Reincarnation, so Kabuto informs him that the technique will not end with his death. Itachi is quickly joined by Sasuke, who initially mistakes Kabuto for Orochimaru. Sasuke has other business with Itachi and tries to kill Kabuto, but Itachi blocks his attack. Kabuto, aware that Sasuke wants to confront Itachi about the [[Uchiha Clan Downfall]], tries to convince Sasuke to join forces with him, but Sasuke refuses. Since Itachi's only option of stopping him is to use [[genjutsu]], Kabuto covers his eyes with his hood and sends his [[snake]]s to attack them. They destroy the snakes with their [[Susanoo]] and then attack Kabuto himself.
Attacking the brothers using the [[Sage Art: White Rage Technique]], Kabuto lowers the [[Wikipedia:Brille|brille]] of his eyes and liquefies his insides, so as to move unimpaired despite the technique's effects. First intending to target Itachi and rewrite his tag, he changes his mind at the last minute and opens his mouth wide, seemingly intent on swallowing Sasuke whole. When Itachi interferes, Kabuto questions if he was able to [[Chakra Sensing Technique|sense]] him but Itachi denies this, stating that it was [[Nagato]] who had done so previously. Kabuto then remarks on Itachi's skills in understanding and deceiving others in an apparent attempt to lay doubt and mistrust amongst the brothers, before dodging an [[Chidori Sharp Spear|attack]] from Sasuke — by retreating to the roof of the cave — and declaring that such a makeshift duo could never defeat him.
 
   
[[File:Kabutomaru impales Itachi.png|thumb|Kabuto impales Itachi's clone.]]
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[[File:Senpō Hakugeki no Jutsu 1.png|thumb|Kabuto attacks Sasuke and Itachi.]]
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Kabuto is able to slip free of their Susanoo using his research of [[Suigetsu Hōzuki]]'s [[Hydrification Technique]]; he then heals the little damage he did receive using his research of [[Karin]]'s [[Uzumaki]]-lineage. Because Sasuke was on a [[Taka|team]] with both of Suigetsu and Karin, he asks if Kabuto also has the abilities of its other member, [[Jūgo]]. Kabuto confirms this, explaining how he used Jūgo's passive ability to absorb [[natural energy]] in order to achieve [[Sage Mode]], a state Orochimaru was never able to master and thus proof that Kabuto has surpassed him. Kabuto uses the [[Wikipedia:Brille|brille]] of his Sage Mode form to shield his eyes and then [[Sage Art: White Rage Technique|blinds]] Itachi and Sasuke. Because Sasuke is unable to sustain his Susanoo, Kabuto tries to go after him, but Itachi blocks the attack.
Curiously observing the brothers from the cave's ceiling as they formulate a new strategy, Kabuto is soon enclosed by Itachi's [[Yasaka Magatama|assault]], allowing Sasuke to [[Susanoo Bow|pin]] his snake-tail to the rock. Seemingly moving to use Sasuke's [[Sword of Kusanagi (Sasuke Uchiha)|sword]] to sever his own tail, he instead intercepts and impales Itachi with the blade, just as his liquefied tail begins to slip free. However, when Itachi suddenly disperses into a [[Crow Clone Technique|flock of crows]], Kabuto's horn is severed in the ensuing counter after Itachi commandeers Sasuke's sword, but he simply remarks that he had yet to get used to possessing horns.
 
   
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[[File:Itachi attacks Kabuto.png|thumb|left|Itachi cuts Kabuto's horn.]]
Amused that such previously hostile brothers could be so coordinated, Kabuto discerns from Sasuke's responses that he must have learnt the truth surrounding Itachi after the latter's death. Noting the contradiction between the siblings aims, he again tries to tempt Sasuke into betraying Itachi given their mutual desires for [[Konoha]]'s destruction. When Sasuke rejects this, Kabuto recounts his past as a spy and how he was discarded once he began to lose track of his real identity amongst the fabricated ones, gaining nothing in exchange but shame and dishonour. He then reasons that no one understood Sasuke better than him and so, they should stand together as brothers, but Itachi warns of Kabuto's skill in deceit. Declaring the reasons for his own and his [[Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation|technique]]'s invincibility, Kabuto activates his [[chakra scalpel]] and charges at the brothers, before clashing with and repelling Itachi.
 
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Sasuke and Itachi go on the offensive and coordinate attacks with their Susanoo. Kabuto avoids serious injury and is able to take Sasuke's [[Sword of Kusanagi (Sasuke Uchiha)|sword]], which he uses to stab Itachi. Itachi in turn takes the sword back and uses it to cut off the tip of one of Kabuto's horns. Although their attack didn't seem to have much effect, Sasuke and Itachi are nevertheless pleased by how well they work together. Kabuto once again tries convincing Sasuke to change sides, reminding him of all Itachi's lies and manipulations and explaining how he, like Sasuke, also wants to destroy Konoha. Sasuke is too committed to Itachi to betray him, so Kabuto explores his own similarities to Itachi: how both of them sacrificed their identities for Konoha's greater good and how neither was appreciated for it. This also fails, so Kabuto attacks, [[Sage Art: Inorganic Reincarnation|manipulating the cave's interior]] to crush them; Itachi uses his own body to protect Sasuke.
   
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[[File:Kabuto slices Itachi.png|thumb|Kabuto cuts through Itachi.]]
Declaring that the pair were severely underestimating him, Kabuto uses his [[Sage Art: Inorganic Reincarnation]] technique to manipulate the surrounding [[Wikipedia:Speleothem|cave formations]] in order to attack them. Incapacitating Itachi — who had instead protected Sasuke — Kabuto retrieves a talisman from his snake, intent on overwriting Itachi's mind. However, before he can do so, he is stopped by Sasuke who creates a ring of [[Amaterasu]] around himself and Itachi. Assessing Sasuke's [[Wikipedia:The best defense is a good offense|choice of defence]], Kabuto affirms that there was no way they could defeat him because he had come closest to the [[Sage of the Six Paths]] than anyone in the world.
 
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Kabuto tries to get close to Itachi so that he can regain control over his body, but Sasuke keeps him away with [[Amaterasu]] until Itachi's body recovers. Itachi admits that he used to be like Kabuto, as he also struggled with who he was and tried to define himself by becoming perfect. He eventually discovered that this was the wrong tactic and that the only way to understand himself was to accept his faults. Kabuto is unmoved, having thought long and hard about one's identity and now firmly committed to his current course. He uses his [[Strange Transmission Distant Shadow]] technique in order to manifest aspects of the [[Sound Five]] and even Orochimaru, using their broad range of abilities to overwhelm Itachi and Sasuke from a safe distance. They counter each of his attacks and Itachi continues trying to reason with him, frustrating Kabuto enough that he moves closer in order to attack Itachi in person.
   
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[[File:Edo Tensei Kai.png|thumb|left|Kabuto forced to release the Impure World Reincarnation.]]
When Itachi tells Kabuto that he was bound to fail as he did in the past because he didn't know who he truly was, Kabuto states that for his entire life he had been trying to find his real self, in his own way and that from the very beginning he had nothing. Reflecting upon his youth, Kabuto explains that he targeted the brothers in order to assimilate their abilities, as his pawns were his own power. Refusing Itachi's later claims that the Uchiha name was meaningless, he presses on with his attack.
 
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Kabuto and Sasuke briefly exchange attacks while Itachi's body recovers. Kabuto avoids serious injury and is able to take Sasuke's sword, which he uses to stab Itachi. Itachi in turn takes the sword back and uses it to cut off the tip of the same horn as before. Kabuto notes the déjà vu of this previous exchange, but thinks nothing of it and resumes the attack. However, the exchange keeps happening over and over, with his horn reappearing each time only to be cut off again: this is Itachi's [[Izanami]], a genjutsu that traps its victims using a sensory loop rather than vision. Kabuto realises that something has happened to him, but none of the jutsu he tries are able to change the outcome. While Kabuto is trapped in his own mind, Itachi opens his brille and uses a genjutsu to force him to release the Impure World Reincarnation, returning himself and everyone else to the [[Pure Land]].
   
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Sasuke shortly afterwards revives Orochimaru using a sample of Kabuto's flesh. Orochimaru then absorbs his own chakra from Kabuto's body and they leave him behind.
[[File:Kabuto cuts down Itachi.png|thumb|left|Kabuto bisects Itachi.]]
 
As a manifestation of [[Sakon]] emerges from the base of his navel-snake, Kabuto uses the twins' [[Attack of the Twin Demons|kekkei genkai]] to access the other DNA within his body and transforms it into [[Jirōbō]], who [[Earth Release: Earth Shore Return|parts]] the flame-covered earth before him. Without pause, he creates a manifestation of [[Kidōmaru]] and has him [[Spider Web Unrolling|ensnare]] the siblings — who [[Amaterasu|incinerate]] part of the uncuttable web — before next transforming it into [[Kimimaro]]. Kabuto then [[Dance of the Seedling Fern|blocks]] the area to the brother's rear, effectively caging them in between web and bone, whilst Kimimaro fashions a [[Demonic Flute]] from bone. Just as the pair manages to escape, Kabuto uses a manifestation of [[Tayuya]] to perform [[Demonic Flute: Phantom Sound Chains|auditory genjutsu]], incapacitating the siblings despite their Susanoo, intent on capturing them with a manifestation of Orochimaru in his [[Orochimaru#Immortality Technique|true form]]. Confident in his beliefs and victory, he instead begins to shed tears when the brothers fend off the snake. However, after suddenly emerging from Orochimaru's mouth and [[Chakra Scalpel|bisecting]] Itachi, he tearfully declares that a genius with everything wouldn't understand his desire to find his true self and that no one would stand in his way.
 
   
  +
=== Birth of the Ten-Tails' Jinchūriki ===
[[File:Kabuto releases Edo Tensei.png|thumb|Under Itachi's control, Kabuto releases Impure World Reincarnation technique.]]
 
  +
{{main|Birth of the Ten-Tails' Jinchūriki}}
Immediately moving to rewrite Itachi's mind, Kabuto was attacked by Sasuke but managed to catch the thrown sword with his navel-snake, before retreating to the cave's roof in order to evade Sasuke's Susanoo's grasp. Countering Sasuke's [[Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique|fireball]] using the [[Water Release: Great Waterfall Technique]] — which also swept Sasuke away — he was set upon by a regenerated Itachi, who Kabuto chastises for using the same tactic as he had done before to sever his horn. After refuting claims that his destiny was outside of his control, Kabuto noted a sense of [[Wikipedia:Déjà vu|déjà vu]] and so, decides to conclude the fight ahead of [[Body Shedding|eluding]] the brothers' Susanoo. Eventually, Kabuto realised that he was trapped within the effect of Itachi's [[Izanami]] and that he was a prisoner within his own mind. In utter disbelief of being trapped in an endless time loop, and lamenting that his plan was now falling apart, Kabuto openly cursed Itachi as he charged towards him. Outside Kabuto's mind, after his glasses were removed, Itachi proceeded to cast another genjutsu to force Kabuto to reveal the hand seals needed to cancel Impure World Reincarnation and then had him execute the release. As a result, the army Kabuto assembled for Tobi fades away with the exception of Madara, who severed his contract with the summoner to remain.
 
  +
[[File:Kabuto Healing Sasuke.png|thumb|Kabuto saving Sasuke.]]
  +
By design, the only way to escape Izanami is to be humble and to stop trying to alter events in one's favour. Kabuto, by stopping trying to make himself into something new and perfect and instead accepting who he's always been deep down, satisfies this criteria and is released from Izanami. Kabuto is deeply glad to have rediscovered his long-abandoned identity and feels indebted to Itachi for showing it to him. In order to return the favour, Kabuto heads to the last remaining battlefield of the war and uses his medical skills to heal Sasuke's mortal wounds. Although Karin and Suigetsu are suspicious of Kabuto, Sasuke recovers and is able to rejoin the fight against Madara Uchiha.
   
  +
=== Kaguya Ōtsutsuki Strikes ===
[[File:Orochimaru sucking chakra.png|thumb|left|Orochimaru absorbing his own chakra from Kabuto's body.]]
 
  +
{{main|Kaguya Ōtsutsuki Strikes}}
After Sasuke resolves to revive Orochimaru using Anko's Cursed Seal of Heaven, Jūgo helps Sasuke by absorbing part of Kabuto's flesh in order for the technique to work. After being revived, Orochimaru reabsorbs all of his chakra from Kabuto's body, thus reversing all of his reptilian modifications, returning him to his human form.
 
  +
Madara is able to cast [[Infinite Tsukuyomi]], trapping Kabuto and the rest of the world in a dream. Naruto and Sasuke are eventually able to release the Infinite Tsukuyomi, thus freeing the world and ending the war.
{{-}}
 
   
== Movies ==
+
== New Era ==
  +
Despite his crimes, Kabuto wasn't imprisoned following the war, and was instead allowed to operate with a degree of autonomy, eventually becoming the director of the [[Konoha Orphanage]]. Orochimaru noted to Sasuke that the three of them were not truly free, and had most likely only been spared because the village considered them invaluable tools that could be called upon should another threat to the shinobi world arise.<ref>''Naruto: Shippūden'' episode 485</ref>
=== Naruto Shippūden 2: Bonds ===
 
Kabuto makes a small appearance along with Orochimaru. He tells Sasuke how Konoha had been attacked by the [[Land of the Sky]], at which Sasuke told him he doesn't care. Orochimaru then ordered him to get a scroll and capture [[Shinnō]]. In the end, Sasuke failed to bring Shinnō, at which Kabuto was surprised.
 
   
== Video Games ==
+
=== Sarada Uchiha Arc ===
  +
{{Main|Naruto Gaiden: The Seventh Hokage and the Scarlet Spring}}
{{playable in}}
 
  +
[[File:Kabuto Orphanage.png|thumb|left|Kabuto with the Shin clones at the orphanage.]]
  +
Naruto, now [[Hokage]], delivers [[Shin Uchiha]]'s [[Shin Uchiha (Clones)|many clones]] to the orphanage. Kabuto decides that giving each clone their own name should be the top priority.
  +
{{-L}}
   
  +
== In Other Media ==
Kabuto plays a role in the Story Mode of ''[[Naruto: Clash of Ninja Revolution 2]]'', set during the pre-Shippūden filler arcs. He first appears as a shaded figure talking to [[Bando]] about his and [[Kagura]]'s plot to destroy Konoha. When Bando questions Kabuto's motives in the plan, Kabuto simply replies that he has been rather bored lately and is just in it for kicks. Kabuto witnesses Kagura's defeat at the hands of Tsunade and attempts to flee only to be pursued and attacked by Naruto. During the fight Naruto defeats Kabuto with his Rasengan. Accepting defeat, Kabuto escapes, assuring Naruto that their next encounter will end differently.
 
  +
=== Movies ===
  +
==== Naruto Shippūden the Movie: Bonds ====
  +
{{main|Naruto Shippūden the Movie: Bonds}}
  +
Sasuke is summoned before Orochimaru and Kabuto. Kabuto informs Sasuke of the [[Land of the Sky]]'s attack on Konoha, but Sasuke isn't interested. Orochimaru sends Sasuke to capture [[Shinnō]], which he ultimately fails to do, surprising Kabuto.
   
  +
=== Video Games ===
In ''[[Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3]]'', Kabuto and Kabuto with Orochimaru's remains are featured as two different playable characters. In ''[[Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations]]'', Kabuto with Orochimaru's remains and a snake cloak is playable.
 
  +
{{playable in}}
  +
In most games, Kabuto is only playable in one form – with the appearance and abilities he had prior to assimilating with Orochimaru's remains. In later instalments of the ''Ultimate Ninja Storm'' series, he is playable in other forms, some of which come with their own movesets:
  +
*Kabuto partially merged with Orochimaru's remains – ''[[Ultimate Ninja Heroes 3]]''
  +
*Kabuto during the Fourth Shinobi War – ''[[Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations]]''.
  +
*Kabuto in Sage Mode – ''[[Ultimate Ninja Storm 3|Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 Full Burst]]''.
   
 
== Trivia ==
 
== Trivia ==
  +
{{youthwiki|Kabuto Yakushi}}
* "Kabuto" is the last part of the Japanese name for [[Wikipedia:Aconitum|Aconitum]], a plant that can either alleviate pain or kill, which seems fitting as he is a [[medical-nin]] who uses his medicinal knowledge in battle.
 
* A ''kabuto'' is the name for a samurai's helmet or headplate. With his former team-mates, Yoroi ("armour") and Tsurugi ("sword"), they form an armour-helmet-sword trio.
+
* A [[wikipedia:kabuto|kabuto]] is the name for a samurai's helmet or headplate. With his former teammates, Yoroi ("armour") and Tsurugi ("sword"), they form an armour—helmet—sword trio.
  +
** "Kabuto" is also the last part of the Japanese name for [[Wikipedia:Aconitum|Aconitum]], a plant that can either alleviate pain or kill, which seems fitting as he is a [[medical-nin]] who uses his medicinal knowledge in battle.
 
* His surname, {{translation|Yakushi|薬師}}, is the short form of the Japanese name of the Medicine/Healer Buddha (long form: Yakushi nyorai), [[Wikipedia:Bhaisajyaguru|Bhaisajyaguru]], and means "medicine user".
 
* His surname, {{translation|Yakushi|薬師}}, is the short form of the Japanese name of the Medicine/Healer Buddha (long form: Yakushi nyorai), [[Wikipedia:Bhaisajyaguru|Bhaisajyaguru]], and means "medicine user".
  +
* In the ''[[Live Spectacle Naruto]]'', the role of Kabuto was played by Tatsunari Kimura.
  +
* Studio Pierrot's Settei sheets of Kabuto show that he was 120 cm when he was found by Nono, and 150 cm when he left to join Root with Danzō.
 
* According to the databook(s):
 
* According to the databook(s):
 
** Kabuto's hobby is taking care of his scalpels.
 
** Kabuto's hobby is taking care of his scalpels.
Line 269: Line 238:
 
** Kabuto in Konohagakure has completed 191 official missions in total: 163 D-rank, 28 C-rank, 0 B-rank, 0 A-rank, 0 S-rank.
 
** Kabuto in Konohagakure has completed 191 official missions in total: 163 D-rank, 28 C-rank, 0 B-rank, 0 A-rank, 0 S-rank.
 
** Kabuto's favourite phrase is {{translation|"A thousand changes, ten thousand transformations"|千変万化|Senpen Banka}}. This proverb refers to innumerable changes or infinite variety.
 
** Kabuto's favourite phrase is {{translation|"A thousand changes, ten thousand transformations"|千変万化|Senpen Banka}}. This proverb refers to innumerable changes or infinite variety.
** His favourite food is [[Wikipedia:Trachurus|jack mackerel]] grilled with salt and [[Wikipedia:Sparidae|sea bream]] grilled with salt while his least favourite food is raw meat.
+
** His favourite foods are [[Wikipedia:Trachurus|jack mackerel]] and [[Wikipedia:Sparidae|sea bream]] both/either one grilled with salt, while his least favourite food is raw meat.
  +
* In the [[Jin no Sho|fourth databook]], neither [[hiden]] nor [[kekkei genkai]] are listed among Kabuto's special characteristics, despite his usage of both through [[Strange Transmission Distant Shadow]]. [[Summoning]] is also not listed, despite him summoning [[snakes]] and using [[Impure World Reincarnation]].
* When chapter [[Great Regiment, the Battle Begins!|521]] was first published in Weekly Shōnen Jump, Kabuto was illustrated without his glasses after he left Tobi. This is later corrected in the tankōbon version of the manga.
 
* Dragons and snakes are interchangeable in various mythologies, such as in the case of [[Wikipedia:Yamata-no-Orochi|Yamata-no-Orochi]]. In Korean mythology, [[Wikipedia:Korean dragon|dragons]] start out as giant serpents called Imugi before maturing into true dragons. Thus, Kabuto saw himself to have grown from a serpent into a dragon.
+
* Dragons and snakes are interchangeable in various mythologies, such as in the case of [[Wikipedia:Yamata-no-Orochi|Yamata-no-Orochi]]. Thus, Kabuto saw himself to have grown from a snake into a dragon.
* Kabuto appears alongside Orochimaru in the anime adaption of ''[[Rock Lee no Seishun Full-Power Ninden]]''. In the series, much like [[Tenten]], Kabuto serves as both the comedic foil to Orochimaru and the voice of reason when his master's schemes border on comedic idiocy.
+
* In ''[[Rock Lee's Springtime of Youth Full Power Ninja Chronicles]]'', Kabuto serves as both the comedic foil to Orochimaru and the voice of reason when his master's schemes border on idiocy.
   
 
== Quotes ==
 
== Quotes ==
* (After accidentally wounding [[Nonō]]) "''Why didn't mother… …recognise me…? Why didn't she remember me…? Why? What was the purpose of my life then? What did I receive from her!? My name being one of her sons… …even these glasses. Who is… …this…? This isn't me… It's not the real me…''"<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 583, pages 15-17</ref>
+
* (After accidentally wounding [[Nonō]]) "''Why didn't mother… …recognise me…? Why didn't she remember me…? Why? What was the purpose of my life then? What did I receive from her!? My name being one of her sons… …even these glasses. Who is… …this…? This isn't me… It's not the real me…''"<ref name="c583">''Naruto'' chapter 583, pages 15-17</ref>
  +
* (To [[Naruto]]) "''After Orochimaru died, I found myself not knowing who I was, again… Without knowing parent or country, I was taken in by the enemy… Since a young age I've moved about countries and villages as a spy… To me, things like countries, villages… they hold no firm reality in my mind. That was, of course, until I found myself under the wing of Orochimaru… but that presence is gone again. What am I anyway… The pain of not having an identity… I'd think you should understand… Naruto.''"<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 356, pages 14-15</ref>
* (To [[Naruto]]) "''Little kids think life is so easy. That's why they go on and on about their dreams. That's why they never give up.''"
 
  +
* (To Naruto) "''I decided I wished to be like you as well, Naruto, and for that reason… with Lord Orochimaru now integrated into this body, I plan on finding a new "me", one stronger than Lord Orochimaru himself! Finding a new me, that is the lesson you taught me.''"<ref name="c356">''Naruto'' chapter 356, pages 18-19</ref>
* (To Naruto) "''You've just thrown it all away! Dreams don't come true when you're dead!''"
 
  +
* "''I am no longer a snake… sage power has allowed me to shed that skin… and I am a dragon now!!''"<ref name="C579P19" />
* (To Naruto) "''Hehehe…, you can't beat me. You have no skills, unlike Sasuke.''"
 
  +
* (To [[Itachi]]) {{translation|"''My name is a code… My glasses are a tool… I've been no one… From the start. From the very start… I had nothing.''"|「名は記号…。眼鏡は道具…。最初からボクは何者でもなかった。ボクには…何も無い。」|"Na wa kigō… Megane wa dōgu… Saisho kara boku wa nanimono demo nakatta. Boku ni wa… nani mo nai."}}<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 582, page 17</ref>
* (To Naruto) "''After Orochimaru died, I found myself not knowing who I was, again… Without knowing parent or country, I was taken in by the enemy… Since a young age I've moved about countries and villages as a spy… To me, things like countries, villages… they hold no firm reality in my mind. That was, of course, until I found myself under the wing of Orochimaru… but that presence is gone again. What am I anyway… The pain of not having an identity… I'd think you should understand… Naruto.''"<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 356, pages 14-15</ref>
 
* (To Naruto) "''I decided I wished to be like you as well, Naruto, and for that reason… with Lord Orochimaru now integrated into this body, I plan on finding a new "me", one stronger than Lord Orochimaru himself! Finding a new me, that is the lesson you taught me.''"<ref name="chapter356">''Naruto'' chapter 356, pages 18-19</ref>
 
* "''Orochimaru is the symbol of reincarnation, and as a goal, a greatness meant to be exceeded by me. He'll continue to live inside me.''"<ref name="chapter356"/>
 
* "''Lord Orochimaru immediately tried to acquire that power… but… he didn't yet possess a body that could tolerate it… That's why he couldn't become the sage that I have become!''"<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 579, pages 17-18</ref>
 
* "''I am no longer a snake… sage power has allowed me to shed that skin… and I am a dragon now!!''"<ref name="C579P19"/>
 
* (To [[Itachi]]) "''My name is a code… My glasses are a tool… I've been no one… From the start. From the very start… I had nothing.''"<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 582, page 17</ref>
 
 
* (To Itachi) "''A genius that had everything will never understand. …I just want to become myself.''"<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 585, page 17</ref>
 
* (To Itachi) "''A genius that had everything will never understand. …I just want to become myself.''"<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 585, page 17</ref>
  +
* (To [[Suigetsu]]) "''You're right that Obito and I were convinced that we didn't have a place in this world, and we ended up involving everyone else. But now I know who I am and what I have to do.''"<ref>''Naruto'' chapter 667, page 9</ref>
   
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
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Latest revision as of 11:58, 29 February 2024

This article is about the character. For other uses, see Kabuto Yakushi (disambiguation).
editKabuto Yakushi Camera font awesome Browse Information[1][2][3][4]
薬師カブト Yakushi Kabuto
Debut
Manga Naruto Chapter #39
Anime Naruto Episode #23
Novel Sasuke Shinden: Book of Sunrise (Mentioned)
Movie Naruto Shippūden the Movie: Bonds
Game Naruto: Ultimate Ninja
OVA Hidden Leaf Village Grand Sports Festival!
Appears in Anime, Manga, Novel, Game, Movie
Voice Actors
Japanese
English
Personal
Birthdate Astrological Sign Pisces February 29
Sex Gender Male Male
Age
  • Part I: 19–20
  • Part II: 23–24
Height
  • Part I: 176.2 cm1.762 m <br />5.781 ft <br />69.37 in <br />
  • Part II: 177 cm1.77 m <br />5.807 ft <br />69.685 in <br />
Weight
  • Part I: 65 kg143.3 lb <br />
Blood type AB
Kekkei Genkai
Classification
Occupation
Affiliation
Team
Partner
Rank
Ninja Rank
Ninja Registration 012140
Academy Grad. Age 10
Family
Nature Type
Unique Traits
Jutsu

Tools

Kabuto Yakushi (薬師カブト, Yakushi Kabuto) spent most of his life as a spy working for many different individuals, organisations, and countries. His natural talents in intelligence-gathering and medicine attracted the attention of Orochimaru when he was younger, who made Kabuto his right-hand man. Although Kabuto learns much about the world under Orochimaru, he eventually decides that his life of serving others has prevented him from making an identity for himself. He thereafter seeks power and becomes a major factor in the Fourth Shinobi World War, using his higher place in the world so that he can find where in it he belongs. After finally finding himself in the world, Kabuto returns to Konohagakure to run the orphanage there, helping others such as himself to find their own way.

Background

Kabuto Injured

A young Kabuto developing amnesia from his injury.

Kabuto was found as a child by Nonō Yakushi on the outskirts of a city recently destroyed in a battle; he had suffered a head injury, leaving him with no memory of his name or past. Nonō treated his wound and brought him to the Konoha Orphanage. Urushi, another orphan, placed a helmet on his head so he wouldn't be injured again, prompting Nonō to name him "Kabuto". Kabuto liked the name and left his bed that night so that he could thank her, unaware of the orphanage's strict schedule. When Nonō found him, she discovered that this was in part because he couldn't read a clock due to his poor eyesight. She gave him her glasses so that he could see, overwhelming Kabuto with thankfulness.[5]

To earn money for the orphanage's operations, Nonō used her medical ninjutsu to treat injured shinobi of Konohagakure; Kabuto, having been taught medical ninjutsu by Nonō, would assist. Although the money helped, they still relied on direct funding from Konoha in order to get by. Aware of this fact, Danzō Shimura visited the orphanage one day threatening to withhold Konoha's funding if Nonō didn't turn one of the orphans over to his Root organisation. Kabuto, after eavesdropping on this conversation, volunteered against Nonō and Urushi's protests. Root trained Kabuto in espionage and over the years sent him to gain intel by, at different times, posing as a ninja of Kumo, Kiri, Suna, and Iwa. While in Iwa, Kabuto's spying was discovered and an Iwa-nin cornered him. He was able to strike down his pursuer, but only afterwards discovered that it was Nonō, who was also working for Root.

Kabuto and Orochimaru meet again

Orochimaru confronts Kabuto.

Kabuto apologised profusely and tried to heal Nonō, but she didn't recognise his face, even when he told her his name. She died from her injuries and Kabuto was forced to flee before Nonō's backup found him. Once safe, Kabuto was disillusioned by what had happened, wondering who he was if even Nonō didn't know him. He was soon confronted by Orochimaru,[6] an underling of Danzō who'd taken an interest in Kabuto over the years. Orochimaru explained that Danzō had been giving Nonō falsified photographs of Kabuto so that she would no longer recognise him when they met. This in turn allowed Danzō to pit Nonō and Kabuto against each other and thus eliminate Root's two most effective, and consequently, knowledgeable spies. Assuming that Orochimaru planned to finish him off, Kabuto attacked him, distraught by the loss of both Nonō and the self-identification he'd acquired through her.

Kabuto and Sasori

Kabuto meeting Sasori.

Orochimaru survived the attack and suggested that Kabuto now try making a new identity for himself using whatever knowledge of the world he could acquire. Orochimaru offered to help him in this regard and invited him to help make a new village, Otogakure, where individuality could thrive. Kabuto agreed and Orochimaru gave him a new backstory: that he was found by Nonō - a captain of Konoha's Medic Corps - after the Battle of Kikyō Pass and adopted as her son.[7] With this backstory, Kabuto was able to become a genin of Konoha, which he used to enter the biannual Chūnin Exams so that he could gather information on his fellow participants for Orochimaru's use. Later, he was found by Akatsuki and was turned into one of Sasori's sleeper agents so he would spy on Orochimaru.[8] Shortly afterwards, Orochimaru realised the truth and freed him from this control, allowing Kabuto to effectively infiltrate the organisation for Orochimaru. When not spying, Kabuto helped Orochimaru with his experimentations and his studies of different Oto-nin's abilities. In the anime, Kabuto also helped Orochimaru find genetic samples for use in the Impure World Reincarnation[9] and also helped him escape from Itachi Uchiha after the latter's failed attempt to capture Itachi.[10]

Personality

At times, Kabuto can seem quite open, more than willing to approach people and always confident in his own words and actions.[11] By his own admission, he is an introvert who doesn't like to be looked at and who wants to stick to the background.[12] He can be very critical of others, dismissing their personal desires and outlining all the flaws he perceives them to be making.[13] To those he feels are deserving, he is nothing but polite, regarding them with deference,[14] using the appropriate honourifics, and chastising those who don't do the same.[15] He can be cruel, preying on sensitive topics in order to rile someone up and punctuating his comments with sarcasm.[16] Other times he is kind, putting himself at risk[17] and being helpful for no immediate benefit to himself.[18]

The many contradictions of Kabuto's personality are a result of his frequent role as a spy, having spent most of his life changing identities and loyalties in order to gather information for some organisation. Although he's been serving Orochimaru for the longest period of time, even Orochimaru isn't always sure what Kabuto's true feelings are: he trusts Kabuto implicitly, yet secretly suspects that Kabuto might intentionally undermine him.[19] When Kabuto begins working with Tobi, Tobi is careful to be on guard with Kabuto and keep him on a short leash, aware that Kabuto does not always act for the reasons he claims to; even so, Kabuto is able to make himself simultaneously so valuable yet so dangerous that Tobi can't really do anything about it.[20]

Kabuto appears to take his shifting allegiances in stride, but in truth he suffers an ongoing identity crisis. Because of the head injury he experienced when he was younger, Kabuto's early past is unknown to him and he has been having to construct an identity for himself ever since. While he was recruiting Kabuto, Orochimaru encouraged him to follow his own example and quite literally build who he wants to be out of whatever knowledge and abilities he can gather. Kabuto latched on to this idea at the time, but eventually realised that this was no different than what he did as a spy: aligning himself under some larger entity and then defining himself according to that. Kabuto decides it is better to follow Naruto Uzumaki's example and establish his own identity by becoming even greater than those under whose shadows he's lived under, namely Orochimaru.[21] Kabuto sets out to become stronger, perfecting all the skills that Orochimaru could not, and use the resulting power so that he would never need to be answerable to anyone ever again.

In his quest to surpass Orochimaru, Kabuto convinces himself that he has become the "perfect" being.[22] He uses this believed distinction in order to ally with Tobi during the Fourth Shinobi World War, pitting Tobi against the Allied Shinobi Forces so that they will destroy themselves and enable Kabuto to capitalise in the aftermath. But when his plans see continued setbacks, especially in his repeated failure to defeat Sasuke and Itachi Uchiha in battle, Kabuto's self-image as "perfect" starts to crack and he begins desperately trying to defend his final attempt at being recognised.[23] Itachi tries to explain the misstep that Kabuto has been making, but it isn't until he is subjected to Izanami that Kabuto accepts it: in the act of making an identity for himself, he has only been burying who he truly is. When he peels away all his false personas, Kabuto again becomes the adoptive son of Nonō Yakushi, one who could be trusted to do things on his own and who was valued by the entire orphanage because of it.[5] Despite having claimed to have surpassed Orochimaru, Kabuto still held great respect for Orochimaru, still referring to him with the honourific "-sama".

Kabuto feels indebted to Itachi for restoring to him the knowledge of who he is and where in the world he most belongs; he later returns the favour to Itachi by saving Sasuke's life. After the war, Kabuto returns to the orphanage where he was raised - his long-neglected true home - and resumes the life he once had there. He believes it is vital that the orphans have identities of their own and not allow themselves to be defined by their past associations.[24] In the anime, Orochimaru expressed his confidence that Kabuto's chance of slipping back to his old days are even lower than himself.

Appearance

Kabuto has onyx eyes and ash-grey hair, which he normally keeps in a ponytail. His most consistent feature are his black rimmed circular glasses, given to him by Nonō. During Part I and for much of Part II, Kabuto wears a dark purple shirt with a high collar, a white under-shirt, and dark purple pants with a white cloth waistband. In Part I he wears also dark purple fingerless gloves with armoured plates on the back of the hand and a blue forehead protector. During Part II, he infuses himself with Orochimaru's remains, causing his skin to turn white and scaly around the point of application on his left arm; this gradually spreads its influence across the rest of his body. In the anime's Power arc, set before his body is fully covered by Orochimaru's remains, Kabuto wears a black robe with red lining and he starts allowing his hair to grow long and unkempt, all of which help to hide the changes to his body.

Once his body is fully converted, his appearance becomes starkly similar to Orochimaru's, so much so that Sasuke Uchiha initially mistakes Kabuto for him. In addition to the changes to his skin, Kabuto's eyes become yellow with slitted pupils, around which are Orochimaru's characteristic purple markings. A long, white snake also fuses with his abdomen, which he wraps around his waist and which sometimes slithers under or behind him like a tail. His mostly human appearance is actually a shell, as his true form is much more serpentine, having a long body, comparatively short legs and arms, and an elongated face. During the Fourth Shinobi World War, Kabuto wears a maroon-coloured cloak with a hood designed to resemble a serpent's head, with white, red, and yellow markings that resemble eyes. Many years later, after returning to the orphanage, he starts wearing the staff's typical garb and once again ties his hair in a ponytail, although the effects of infusing himself with Orochimaru's remains appear to be permanent, as Kabuto's body continues to resemble Orochimaru's.

Abilities

Kabuto's Power

Kabuto noting himself to be the closest in power to Hagoromo.

While Kabuto was just a child he possessed a natural talent in the shinobi arts, a trademark that caught the attention of Orochimaru upon first meeting Kabuto and studying his service record with Root, which ultimately led to Kabuto being his right-hand man. In Part I, Kabuto's skills are noted to be comparable to Kakashi Hatake's,[25] and enough to defeat members of Konoha's Anbu with ease, noting that they should have readied at least ten guards for him.[26] Tsunade even notes that his knack for ninjutsu and his sharpness surpass that of hers in her prime.[27] During Part II, Kabuto sets out to correct the talents he feels were never fully realised: he later boasts that he has surpassed Orochimaru,[28] is the closest living person to match the power of the Sage of Six Paths,[29] and is the single most important player in the entire Fourth Shinobi World War. Kabuto's improved prowess enabled him to overwhelm Sasuke and the reincarnated Itachi, two Uchiha clan prodigies, several times in battle.

Body Modifications

In order to achieve the "perfect being" identity he desires for himself, Kabuto makes a number of modifications to his body prior to the Fourth Shinobi World War, causing him to develop a different chakra signature[30] and granting him a larger reserve that is strong enough to visibly effect his surroundings.[31] The first and most notable of these modifications was infusing himself with the remains of Orochimaru's body, thus obtaining the Power of the White Snake. Over time, the remains alter his body, making his "true" appearance very snake-like, in which he can move around quickly and use his large mouth to swallow and thus capture targets.[32] He usually disguises his appearance within a more normal-looking skin, which he can shed as needed. This outer skin has a snake embedded in its navel, which he can merge with others' bodies in order to heal them.[30] Kabuto can in fact produce white snakes of varying sizes from his body, either to act as additional appendages[33] or to detach from him and carry out his will. These snakes can use their heightened senses to communicate targets' locations to him, communicate on his behalf, possess his chakra signature to throw off sensor types, and share some of his other bodily modifications.[12]

Kabuto Using Orochimaru

Kabuto manifesting Orochimaru from his body.

From his extensive study of Orochimaru's various human test subjects, Kabuto alters his body to replicate certain others' trademark skills: he creates a version of Suigetsu Hōzuki's Hydrification Technique to escape capture by liquefying his body; he can reproduce Karin's natural Uzumaki-based rejuvenation to heal injuries he suffers; he can use Jūgo's kekkei genkai to passively absorb natural energy, allowing him to continuously use Sage Mode without the need of remaining still.[12] While in Sage Mode, he can make further use of others' abilities through his Strange Transmission Distant Shadow technique, granting him all the skill-sets of whoever he has genetic samples of. He does this through an application of Sakon's body merging ability, generating mindless clones of others from his navel snake that can use all of their techniques. With this, he is able to access the abilities of the Sound Five, such as Kimimaro's accelerated bone production and Kidōmaru's spider web-based bindings.[23]

Ninjutsu

Kabuto's natures include Earth, Water, and Wind, as well as Yin and Yang release.[4] He can use Earth Release to travel underground and, with Jirōbō's DNA, upend the earth. He can also use Water Release without a nearby water source, able to create large water projectiles and water dragons. Kabuto can produce barriers to hide his location[34] and, in the anime, make himself invisible.[35]

Medical Ninjutsu

Chakra Scalpel

Kabuto using the chakra scalpel.

Kabuto was taught medical ninjutsu by Nonō Yakushi when he was young and immediately displayed a natural talent for it. He can heal most injuries without difficulty, even performing the ordinarily close-contact Mystical Palm Technique from a slight distance.[18] He invents Yin Healing Wound Destruction as a way of keeping test subjects alive longer by preemptively healing damage they receive, but he can also use it on himself when he expects to be badly injured. He uses chakra scalpels quite extensively outside their intended surgical use, either to cut through defences[36] or augment his physical strikes, severing muscles on contact in order to disable opponents. Kabuto was also able to sever the chakra pathway system, which also prevented a jinchūriki from receiving chakra from their tailed-beast.[37]

Kabuto has an unprecedented knowledge of the human body, enough that, when his body's electrical signals are scrambled, he is able to quickly compensate and relearn how to control his limbs. For others, he can use his knowledge to create drugs to various effects, either as pain killers, hormones to enhance physical attributes,[38] poisons to specifically neutralise a particular target's abilities or immunities, and truth serums to aid in interrogations.[39] Kabuto has a unique affinity for corpses, able to reanimate them for use as allies in combat or decoys; in the case of the latter, he can quickly alter the corpse's appearance to look like someone else, which is so convincing that the alteration is only noticeable on close scrutiny. He in fact likes to keep a supply of variously-aged corpses with him at all times, which he stores in scrolls until he needs them.

Summoning

Kabuto uses his own blood to help Orochimaru summon snakes a few times in Part I, but it's not until after he takes on Orochimaru's remains that he starts summoning snakes for himself.[40] Like the snakes he makes with his own body, he can use these snake to restrain targets or inject them with venom or various drugs.[39] He also managed to clone and genetically augment animals for his own usage, such as Manda II — a much larger and stronger clone of Manda.[41] In the anime's Power arc, he summons several other varieties of modified snakes that can absorb chakra, morph into copies of himself, and small clone snakes that can combine into replicas of others.[42]

Kabuto Resurrecting Heiji

Kabuto using Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation.

Kabuto claims to have perfected the Impure World Reincarnation: he is able to reincarnate dozens of individuals at a time - something its creator, Tobirama Senju, could not[43] - and bring them back with the same power they had while alive - something Orochimaru could not.[44] Kabuto typically allows his reincarnated forces to keep their personalities while they carry out his bidding, making them more effective and allowing for a degree of psychological warfare against those who knew them when alive. By siphoning chakra from Orochimaru's cursed seals, he can remotely suppress their personalities and take full control of their actions.[45] In the case of Madara Uchiha's reincarnated body, Kabuto makes several modifications to it in order to restore Madara's youth and give him the Rinnegan and Wood Release.[14]

Senjutsu

Kabuto's Sage Mode

Kabuto in Sage Mode.

Due to the larger chakra reserves he gains from Orochimaru's remains, Kabuto is able to learn senjutsu from the White Snake Sage at the Ryūchi Cave. This allows him to enter Sage Mode, which he can use indefinitely due to his replication of Jūgo's passive ability to constantly absorb natural energy. In Sage Mode, Kabuto's only noticeable physical alterations are the markings around his eyes, the four horns on the back of his head, and brille to give him immunity to genjutsu and other visual attacks;[46] he describes his transformation as changing him from a snake to a dragon.[47] Using Sage Mode makes Kabuto's jutsu and physical attacks stronger,[48] improves his physical defences,[49] heightens his speed and reflexes,[50] and allows him to sense his surroundings.[51] He can also infuse natural energy into inanimate objects, giving them life.

Intelligence

During his years in Root, Kabuto became one of the organisation's best spies, a role he continued to serve for Orochimaru. Over the years, he uncovers a great deal of information unknown to most of the world, such as how Zetsus are made, the truth surrounding the Uchiha Clan Downfall,[52] and Tobi's true identity. Like Orochimaru, Kabuto has shown himself as an extensive researcher, performing multiple experiments to empower or neutralise an individual's abilities. In combat, Kabuto can use his gathered knowledge to plan around an opponents' abilities by employing appropriate countermeasures.[41][32] This also speaks to his considerable ability to manipulate opponents, as he frequently tries to break down their resolve,[13] turn them against their allies, or even come up with similarities that might convince them to join forces with him.[52] Even if his manipulations fail or they cannot in and of themselves benefit him, Kabuto is good at making all possible outcomes work in his favour: the Allied Shinobi Forces' losses helped his stated objective of winning the Fourth Shinobi World War, while the Allied Shinobi Forces' victories helped his long-term objective of undermining Akatsuki.

Other Skills

Although Kabuto rarely uses genjutsu, his high skill with it allows him to put a large number of people to sleep.[53] After integrating Tayuya's DNA, he could use trap Itachi and Sasuke in her flute-based genjutsu, and despite the two being genjutsu masters, they were unable to break it independently.[54] Although Kabuto admits that taijutsu is not his forte, he has shown to have good reflexes, reacting to threats just in time to defend himself or allies[55] as well as fending off Naruto Uzumaki's and his shadow clones despite being outnumbered.[56]

Stats

Databook Ninjutsu Taijutsu Genjutsu Intelligence Strength Speed Stamina Hand seals Total
First 4 2.5 4.5 5 3 3.5 3 4.5 30
Second 4.5 3.5 4.5 5 3 3.5 3 5 32
Third 4.5 3.5 4.5 5 3 3.5 3 5 32

Part I

Chūnin Exams

Main article: Chūnin Exams

Kabuto's Genin Team

Kabuto and his teammates.

Kabuto is teamed with Yoroi Akadō and Misumi Tsurugi so that they can enter the Chūnin Exams being held in Konoha. Before the exam's first stage begins, Kabuto befriends the Rookie Nine. Because they're all quite confident in their prospects, he warns them about the exam's inherent difficulty as well as the considerable competition that some of the other participants pose. He confesses that he has little information on the ninja of Oto, but he doesn't feel this is an issue. This provokes the eavesdropping Dosu Kinuta - an Oto-genin - to attack him; although Kabuto dodges, Dosu's Resonating Echo Speaker shatters his glasses and makes him nauseous. The exam proctors break up the fight.

As the second stage of the exams near completion, Kabuto finds the members of Team 7 in the Forest of Death, arriving in time to stop Naruto Uzumaki from opening one of the scrolls they're supposed to be gathering; he explains that doing so results in unconsciousness and thus failure. When asked, he explains that he was separated from his team and that he's on his way to meet them with the two scrolls he's acquired. Sasuke Uchiha challenges him to a fight, needing one of the scrolls if Team 7 is to pass. Kabuto suggests that they instead trying taking a scroll from one of the teams gathering in the centre of the forest. He offers to help them in exchange for accompanying him, providing safety in numbers.

As they approach the centre and the deadline to finish nears, Kabuto and Team 7 are caught in a genjutsu by Team Oboro, who have similar plans of taking scrolls as they do. Naruto uses shadow clones to draw out Team Oboro, who fight his clones with their own haze clones. Kabuto is impressed by Naruto's large chakra supply, but, as Sasuke discovers with his Sharingan, the fight is meaningless since the haze clones are only a distraction. Team Oboro tries sneaking up on Naruto and attacking him, which Kabuto blocks, becoming injured instead; he exudes killing intent in response, creating an opening for Naruto to knock them out. Team 7 takes Team Oboro's scroll and Kabuto accompanies them to the centre of the forest where he reunites with his team. He thanks Team 7 for their help.

Kabuto and his team meet with Orochimaru before the next stage of the exams start and Kabuto gives him the intel he's gathered on Sasuke. They then assemble with the other qualifying teams and are informed that one-on-one preliminary matches will be held. Kabuto opts to withdraw. When asked by Naruto, he claims to be too tired from his encounters with Dosu and Team Oboro to fight. When asked by Yoroi, he claims that this will give Yoroi and Misumi a chance to earn Orochimaru's favour. In truth, Kabuto is concerned that he won't be able to hold himself back in combat and that he'll end up blowing his cover; Orochimaru's presence in the audience also means Kabuto no longer needs to gather intel for him. Kabuto leaves with the Third Hokage's permission, eager for his next encounter with Naruto and Sasuke.

Plotting Invasion

Kabuto meets with Baki.

Kabuto meets with Orochimaru after the preliminaries conclude. Although he doesn't want to trigger his long-term plans yet, Orochimaru is concerned about Sasuke's development, believing that Naruto is having too positive an influence on him. He sends Kabuto to capture Sasuke while it's still possible for Orochimaru to corrupt him. Kabuto locates Sasuke in the Konoha Hospital and kills his eight Anbu guards. He is discovered by Kakashi Hatake before he can accomplish his task and is forced to flee through the window. He meets with Baki of Sunagakure later that night to discuss their villages' planned invasion of Konoha. When they notice that their conversation is being listened to by Hayate Gekkō, Kabuto offers to eliminate him, but Baki does so instead.

A month later, during the final matches of the Chūnin Exams, Kabuto kills one of the Anbu guarding the stadium where the finals are being held. He disguises himself with the Anbu's clothes and mask so that he can infiltrate the stadium and watch Naruto's match. During the fight, Hinata Hyūga starts having a coughing fit—still recovering from her preliminary match with Neji Hyūga prior a month ago. Kabuto offers to treat her and she is healed, but falls unconscious; Kabuto knocks out Kiba Inuzuka and Akamaru as well.

Konoha Crush

Main article: Konoha Crush

Kabuto begins attack

Kabuto faces Konoha's defenders.

The invasion of Konoha is supposed to be initiated by Suna's Gaara. When Gaara ends up being injured during his fight with Sasuke and thus left unable to fulfil his intended role, Kabuto initiates the invasion instead: he uses the Temple of Nirvana Technique to put most of the people in the stadium to sleep. Some of Konoha's forces are able to fend off his genjutsu and engage other Oto-nin that infiltrated the stadium. Kabuto, however, avoids fighting, and both he and Baki are eventually cornered by Kakashi and Might Guy. When he notices Orochimaru fleeing his own fight with the Third Hokage, Kabuto decides to flee as well and advises that Baki do the same.

Search for Tsunade

Main article: Search for Tsunade During the failed invasion, Orochimaru's arms are bound by the Dead Demon Consuming Seal. Kabuto tries healing them and, when that doesn't work, he provides Orochimaru with medicine for the pain, but those are also ineffective. With few other options available, Orochimaru has Kabuto locate Tsunade, one of his fellow Sannin. Kabuto tracks her to Tanzaku Quarters and they go to meet her. Upon finding her, Orochimaru offers to reincarnate her brother and lover in exchange for her healing his arms. This proposal provokes Tsunade's attendant, Shizune, into attacking Orochimaru with a Prepared Needle Shot, which Kabuto blocks. When Tsunade displays a certain willingness to attack them herself, Orochimaru sheds some of his own blood, paralysing her due to her hemophobia. He and Kabuto leave, giving Tsunade a week to decide.

Shizune and Kabuto clash

Kabuto facing Shizune.

As they return to Tanzaku Quarters a week later, Orochimaru is confident that Tsunade will heal his arms. However, he believes Shizune may represent an issue, so he sends Kabuto to kill her. Kabuto finds her in the company of Naruto and Jiraiya, another Sannin, forcing him to withdraw and return to Orochimaru. He arrives in time to stop Tsunade's apparent healing of Orochimaru's arms, having noticed her killing intent. Since she won't cooperate, Orochimaru decides that they must fight her and take her by force, though because of his arms, he relies on Kabuto to do the actual fighting; they draw her away from the city so that Shizune and the others can't help her.

Because of how strong Tsunade's attacks are, Kabuto stays out of her reach as much as he can, only striking when he can get in a disabling blow. Tsunade heals all the damage he does to her and Kabuto similarly recovers from her counterattacks. When they are found by Shizune, Jiraiya, and Naruto, Kabuto slits his wrists so that Tsunade is paralysed with fear and thus unable to fight back. Naruto is confused by Kabuto's presence, slow to realise he's working for Orochimaru; Kabuto informs him that it's this sort of ignorance that prevents him from matching Sasuke. Naruto attacks him with shadow clones, which Kabuto easily fends off. He then fights Shizune, quickly knocking her out while he attempts to restrain Tsunade. Naruto stops him and tries attacking with the Rasengan, but he lacks full mastery of it and misses.

Naruto vs

Kabuto struck with Naruto's Rasengan.

Kabuto tries to convince Naruto to give up, as otherwise he will be killed and thus left unable to achieve his dream of becoming Hokage. Naruto refuses, so Kabuto attacks with a kunai. Naruto catches the kunai and latches on to Kabuto's hand, preventing him from escaping while Naruto strikes with another Rasengan. Kabuto is propelled backwards and tries healing the damage with his Yin Healing Wound Destruction, but the damage is too extensive and he collapses. Naruto also collapses, Kabuto having severed his heart muscles when the Rasengan hit him; he boasts that nothing can be done to save Naruto, but Tsunade is able to successfully heal him. The fight is now left to Orochimaru and Kabuto helps him summon Manda. Tsunade overcomes her haemophobia and defeats both Manda and Orochimaru, forcing him and Kabuto to retreat.

Sasuke Recovery Mission

Main article: Sasuke Recovery Mission Since Tsunade won't help, the only way for Orochimaru to heal his arms is to transfer to a new body, which he selects Sasuke's for. He sends the Sound Four to recruit Sasuke and Kabuto tends to him while he waits. The Sound Four end up taking too long and Kabuto takes it upon himself to find a different body: he has several of their prisoners fight each other to the death, with Orochimaru taking the body of the victor, Gen'yūmaru. While Orochimaru does that, Kabuto talks to Kimimaro, reminding him that Orochimaru's current predicament is his fault since he became ill, thus making him unsuitable as Orochimaru's new body. This compels Kimimaro to go retrieve Sasuke as his last act of service, which Orochimaru characterises as cruel of Kabuto when he learns of it.

Sasuke does eventually arrive at their lair, though Kimimaro and the Sound Four have all died. When Sasuke acts disrespectful towards Orochimaru, Kabuto advises him on proper etiquette, to which Sasuke responds with killing intent; Kabuto is surprised by this and Orochimaru is pleased.

Part II

Tenchi Bridge Reconnaissance Mission

Main article: Tenchi Bridge Reconnaissance Mission

Kabuto attacks Yamato

Kabuto attacks "Sasori".

Over two-and-a-half years after Sasuke joins forces with Orochimaru, Kabuto is summoned to meet with Sasori at the Tenchi Bridge in Kusagakure. Pretending to be his loyal agent, Kabuto answers Sasori's questions about Sasuke, telling him that he's at Orochimaru's nearby base. Orochimaru confronts them during their meeting and Kabuto retreats closer to Sasori. While Sasori talks to Orochimaru and prepares to fight him alongside Kabuto, Kabuto cuts through Sasori's puppet, Hiruko. Having never seen the real Sasori before, Kabuto initially believes the man inside Hiruko is him, but when Naruto and the rest of Team 7 join Yamato he realises his mistake. Orochimaru taunts Naruto about his desire to see Sasuke again, provoking him into using the Nine-Tails' chakra. Kabuto attempts to attack him, but Naruto easily blasts him away with a mere roar.

Once he recovers, Kabuto approaches Yamato and Sakura Haruno and asks if their presence here means that Sasori is dead, which they confirm. He watches Naruto's fight with Orochimaru, observing that Naruto's version 2 form is proof of how desperate he is to retrieve Sasuke. When Naruto, not in control of his actions, injures Sakura, Kabuto heals her wound as his thanks for their killing Sasori and thus weakening Akatsuki. While Yamato restrains Naruto, Kabuto goes looking for Orochimaru and finds him with Team 7's other member, Sai. He initially assumes that Sai means to attack Orochimaru and therefore tackles him, but Orochimaru informs him that Sai is an ally and they take him back to their base. They notice that the rest of Team 7 is following them, apparently because of Sai, so Kabuto prepares a fake dead body that looks like Sai for them to leave behind and throw Team 7 off their trail.

Sai turns on Kabuto

Sai turns on Kabuto.

When they get back to their base, Kabuto finds a room for Sai to stay in and then leaves to analyse the intel that Sai has given them. He accidentally leaves the intel in Sai's room and goes back for it, but both Sai and the intel are gone. He tracks Sai down and finds he's been captured by the rest of Team 7. Kabuto releases Sai from his confinements, defeats Naruto's shadow clones, and requests Sai's help in fighting Team 7, but Sai restrains him instead. When asked, Kabuto is forthcoming with information about where to find Sasuke, though he warns them against it since they may draw out Orochimaru. Yamato leaves behind a wood clone to guard Kabuto while they go searching. Orochimaru eventually finds and frees him and they go to find Sasuke, arriving in time to stop him from killing Team 7. Kabuto recommends Sasuke spare them since they may further weaken Akatsuki, which he agrees with. Kabuto then departs with Orochimaru and Sasuke.

Three-Tails' Appearance

Main article: Three-Tails' Appearance In the anime, as Orochimaru's body starts to reject him, he instructs Kabuto to bring him Guren. Guren challenges Kabuto to a fight as he nears her location in order to test if he is worthy to serve Orochimaru. He meets with her approval and she accompanies him to Orochimaru. Orochimaru offers Guren an opportunity to replace Sasuke as his next body if she can prove herself on a mission; Kabuto is tasked with gathering a team for her from their assorted prisoners. Guren ends up failing her mission, so Kabuto is sent to give her another task: help him capture the Three-Tails. Guren fails to restrain the Three-Tails with her crystal release and Yūkimaru, whose abilities are essential in capturing the Three-Tails, is himself captured by Konoha-nin.

With things becoming desperate, Kabuto tricks members of Guren's team into undergoing operations that will forcibly activate their cursed seals. He also kills and impersonates Rinji, and in that role tries to manipulate Yūkimaru into unleashing the Three-Tails against Guren and Konoha's forces. Yūkimaru refuses to do so, prompting Kabuto to attack him; Naruto counters the attack and, in the process, exposes the Rinji disguise. While Kabuto fights Naruto, he uses Rinji's reanimated body to attack Guren, neutralising her crystal release with Rinji's bats. Guren seemingly gives her life to defeat Rinji and Yūkimaru, overcome with grief, finally unleashes the Three-Tails. Kabuto leaves, satisfied with what's happened.

Itachi Pursuit Mission

Main article: Itachi Pursuit Mission

Kabuto infusing Orochimaru's blood

Kabuto injecting himself with Orochimaru's remains.

With Orochimaru's body on the verge of failure, Kabuto prepares the strongest medication he can to help him cope with the pain. As he's away getting the medicine ready, he notes that Orochimaru will need to take Sasuke's body within the next day or two, though he doubts Sasuke will be cooperative. When he returns, he finds Sasuke leaving Orochimaru's room, with Orochimaru's body now lying abandoned. Kabuto asks Sasuke who he is, unable to tell if the body transfer was successful or not. Sasuke uses Genjutsu: Sharingan to show Kabuto how he overpowered Orochimaru's consciousness and absorbed it into his own. Kabuto is surprised by this and Sasuke leaves without further comment.

Kabuto later tracks down Naruto, who is in the company of Yamato and Hinata Hyūga. He confirms to Naruto the rumours that Sasuke has killed Orochimaru and then gives him a book with all the intel that he and Orochimaru have gathered on Akatsuki over the years. When Naruto and the others can't understand why he would do this, he explains that it is a present for Naruto, partly to help Naruto in his own confrontations with Akatsuki and partly out of gratitude. He tells them how lost he felt after Orochimaru's death, having identified himself in terms of Orochimaru for so long, in the same way that Naruto was once identified in terms of the Nine-Tails. Naruto, however, was able to forge out on his own and establish himself as independent of the Nine-Tails; Kabuto now intends to follow his example and establish himself as greater than Orochimaru.

Orochimaru's remains taking over Kabuto

Orochimaru's remains taking over Kabuto's body.

Kabuto shows them how he has grafted Orochimaru's remains into his body, which Hinata notices with her Byakugan are in the process of taking control of him. Kabuto claims that the remains themselves make him stronger, as does the constant struggle to keep them at bay. Naruto and the others try capturing him, but he retreats, vowing to fight Naruto once he's mastered Orochimaru's powers and also dealt with Sasuke. Kabuto further crafts himself over the following weeks and months: he uses his research of different human test subjects to modify his body; he finds Ryūchi Cave and learns senjutsu from the White Snake Sage;[57] he acquires DNA samples of various dead ninja, some of which, in the anime, he or Orochimaru already possessed;[9] Black Zetsu meets him at some point and shows him the corpse of Madara Uchiha.[58]

Power

Main article: Power

Body Recreation Technique 1

Kabuto creating a clone of Hidan.

In the anime, Kabuto is hired by Disonasu to help him access the Ama no Hoko. He attacks Tonika Village with reincarnated pawns and slaughters most of the villagers in preparation for awakening the Ama no Hoko, which soon draws the attention of Team 7. He's able to create a clone of Hidan to attack them, but the forces he raises with the Impure World Reincarnation are unresponsive to his commands. He decides to retreat, leaving behind a reincarnated Deidara as a distraction while he tries to figure out a way improve his control of the Impure World Reincarnation.

After figuring out a way to allow reincarnated individuals to retain their personalities, Kabuto sneaks into the Hachō Village by reincarnating the Tonika Village Head. They try making the final preparations for restoring the Ama no Hoko, but they are discovered by the village head's granddaughter and Kabuto is drawn into another battle with Team 7. During the fight, a Nine-Tailed Naruto Clone emerges, having been inadvertently created during Kabuto's previous fight with Naruto. With some difficulty, Kabuto is able to capture the clone, the original Naruto, and Dokku. He brings them to Disonasu, who is now able to activate the Ama no Hoko. Konoha ninja start attacking and Kabuto uses his reincarnated forces to fight them off, but they are interrupted by the Naruto clone's sudden mutation. While the others deal with the clone, Kabuto quietly leaves.

After the fighting is over, Kabuto locates the dying Disonasu and summons the Tonika Village Head, who he allows to finish Disonasu off in order to have revenge. Kabuto afterwards sheds his skin, having finally gotten Orochimaru's power under control.

Fourth Shinobi World War: Countdown

Main article: Fourth Shinobi World War: Countdown

Kabuto Blackmails Tobi

Kabuto blackmails Tobi.

Once he's confident that he's mastered Orochimaru's powers, Kabuto travels to the Mountains' Graveyard to confront Tobi of Akatsuki, who has been using the name of Madara Uchiha in order to start the Fourth Shinobi World War. Tobi recognises Kabuto as a former spy of Sasori, so he tries to kill him for betraying Akatsuki. Kabuto responds by using the Impure World Reincarnation to revive five deceased Akatsuki members, which he offers to use to help Tobi in the approaching war. Tobi asks what Kabuto would want in exchange for this alliance, to which Kabuto responds he wants Sasuke. When Tobi contemplates refusing, Kabuto summons the real Madara Uchiha, forcing Tobi to agree. He stipulates, however, that Kabuto can't have Sasuke until after the war is won, which Kabuto agrees to.

Tobi incorporates Kabuto and his reincarnated army into his war plans. When they later receive intel on the location of Naruto and Killer B - whose capture is the reason Tobi started the war - Kabuto offers to capture them himself if Tobi will show him the White Zetsu Army. Tobi complies, also showing him the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path and the biomass of Hashirama Senju that the Zetsus are cultivated from. Satisfied, Kabuto reincarnates Deidara and together they fly to the Island Turtle. As they approach, they draw the patrolling Third Tsuchikage away, creating an opening for a simultaneous attack on the island by Kabuto's Manda II and Deidara's Explosive Clay.

Transformed Kabuto took Yamato

Kabuto capturing Yamato.

Deidara drops Kabuto off on the Island Turtle and then keeps the Tsuchikage busy so that Kabuto can find Naruto and B. He is quickly found by Naruto's guards and his body is bound by Kurotsuchi. Believing Kabuto's been captured, Aoba Yamashiro approaches him with the intention of reading his mind to see what he knows about Akatsuki. In short order, Kabuto sheds his skin to get free, captures Yamato, and takes refuge within Manda II's nose; Manda II escapes and Kabuto withdraws Deidara. Tobi is angry with Kabuto when he returns since he wanted Naruto and B, not Yamato. Kabuto explains that studying Yamato's wood release will allow him to make the White Zetsu Army stronger. He adds that Yamato has intel they can use, which finally convinces Tobi.

Fourth Shinobi World War: Confrontation

Main article: Fourth Shinobi World War: Confrontation

Anko and Kabuto clash

Kabuto and Anko clash.

Once all their preparations are completed, Kabuto and Tobi mobilise their respective armies against the Allied Shinobi Forces. While Tobi is busy overseeing that, Kabuto locates Anko Mitarashi nearby, who he led to the Mountains' Graveyard with a trail of dead bodies. Kabuto captures her after a brief fight. Tobi discovers this and demands that Kabuto kill her. Kabuto refuses, explaining that he can use her Cursed Seal of Heaven to strengthen his use of the Impure World Reincarnation, which is in Tobi's interests. Tobi stipulates that he'll only allow this if Kabuto thoroughly demonstrates how the Impure World Reincarnation works, and to that end instructs him to reincarnate Torune Aburame using Fū Yamanaka as a sacrifice. Kabuto complies and Tobi is satisfied. Kabuto afterwards takes the opportunity to request Tobi's help in reincarnating Shisui Uchiha and Jiraiya, which Tobi refuses.

Kabuto relocates to a remote area to start monitoring his reincarnated forces. When several encounter the Allied Shinobi Forces' Third Division, Kabuto drains the chakra from Anko's cursed seal to fully suppress his reincarnated forces' personalities, turning them into pure killing machines. He's very satisfied with the causalities that the Third Division suffer, so he sends all of his Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist to join the battle. Exerting so much control over his combatants requires a great deal of effort on Kabuto's part, for which reason he allows his other forces to retain their personalities and uses other tactics instead: when the Second Tsuchikage is discovered by the Fourth Division, Kabuto sends the Second Mizukage, Third Raikage, and Fourth Kazekage to reinforce him; against the First Division, he sends a number of individuals whose reincarnation will unnerve members of the Allied Shinobi Forces, thus potentially making them less effective.

Kabuto's forces have mixed results: though the Third Division experiences heavy losses, they are able to figure out an effective, if slow, way of defeating the reincarnated forces; the Fourth Division chooses to retreat from the reincarnated Kage; the First Division defeats or captures all of their reincarnated opponents, most notably Kabuto's Gold and Silver Brothers. He sends Hanzō against Mifune of the Fifth Division, expecting an easy victory, but Hanzō deliberately creates an opportunity for the Fifth Division to capture him and Kabuto doesn't suppress his personality in time to stop him. On the first night of the war, Tobi takes the captured Gold and Silver Brothers from the First Division, which Kabuto guesses to mean he's getting impatient with his plans. When he learns that Naruto and Killer B have left their confinements, Kabuto becomes determined to capture them so that he can use them as leverage against Tobi.

Kabuto sends Nagato and Itachi Uchiha against Naruto and B, expecting that their respective Rinnegan and Mangekyō Sharingan will overpower Naruto and B. Itachi, however, is able to remove Kabuto's control over him and teams up with Naruto and B against Nagato. Kabuto attempts to temporarily kill Naruto and B with Nagato while he tries to regain control of Itachi, but Nagato is defeated. Meanwhile, the Fourth Division finally starts fighting the reincarnated Kage, eventually defeating each of them with the help of one of Naruto's shadow clones. With his forces dwindling, Kabuto decides he'll need to use his "trump card". In the anime, the trump card requires preparation, so he tries different ways of buying time: he sends Hayate Gekkō to acquire DNA samples of dead members of the Allied Shinobi Forces so that he can reincarnate them, but this fails; he sends a force led by Torune Aburame to release the captured reincarnated ninja from their bindings, but this fails as well.

Fourth Shinobi World War: Climax

Main article: Fourth Shinobi World War: Climax Although the Second Tsuchikage was apparently defeated and captured, he split apart at the last moment without the Fourth Division's notice. Kabuto takes control of the uncaptured half of the Tsuchikage and through him summons to the battlefield his trump card: Madara Uchiha. He uses the Tsuchikage to speak to Madara, introducing himself, explaining the modifications he's made to Madara's body (his youth, his Rinnegan, and a graft of Hashirama Senju), and requesting a demonstration of Madara's powers. Madara complies, and after destroying much of the Fourth Division he asks Kabuto why Tobi hasn't kept to their plans. Because Kabuto doesn't know what exactly their plans are he can't give an answer, but he knows Madara requires the Nine-Tails and so directs him to Naruto. Madara then turns his attention to fighting the Allied Shinobi Forces and Kabuto relinquishes his control of the Tsuchikage.

Kabuto vs Uchiha

Kabuto faces Sasuke and Itachi.

Kabuto monitors Madara's fight until he is found in his cave by Itachi (using information received earlier from Nagato). Itachi states his intentions to kill Kabuto in order to end the Impure World Reincarnation, so Kabuto informs him that the technique will not end with his death. Itachi is quickly joined by Sasuke, who initially mistakes Kabuto for Orochimaru. Sasuke has other business with Itachi and tries to kill Kabuto, but Itachi blocks his attack. Kabuto, aware that Sasuke wants to confront Itachi about the Uchiha Clan Downfall, tries to convince Sasuke to join forces with him, but Sasuke refuses. Since Itachi's only option of stopping him is to use genjutsu, Kabuto covers his eyes with his hood and sends his snakes to attack them. They destroy the snakes with their Susanoo and then attack Kabuto himself.

Senpō Hakugeki no Jutsu 1

Kabuto attacks Sasuke and Itachi.

Kabuto is able to slip free of their Susanoo using his research of Suigetsu Hōzuki's Hydrification Technique; he then heals the little damage he did receive using his research of Karin's Uzumaki-lineage. Because Sasuke was on a team with both of Suigetsu and Karin, he asks if Kabuto also has the abilities of its other member, Jūgo. Kabuto confirms this, explaining how he used Jūgo's passive ability to absorb natural energy in order to achieve Sage Mode, a state Orochimaru was never able to master and thus proof that Kabuto has surpassed him. Kabuto uses the brille of his Sage Mode form to shield his eyes and then blinds Itachi and Sasuke. Because Sasuke is unable to sustain his Susanoo, Kabuto tries to go after him, but Itachi blocks the attack.

Itachi attacks Kabuto

Itachi cuts Kabuto's horn.

Sasuke and Itachi go on the offensive and coordinate attacks with their Susanoo. Kabuto avoids serious injury and is able to take Sasuke's sword, which he uses to stab Itachi. Itachi in turn takes the sword back and uses it to cut off the tip of one of Kabuto's horns. Although their attack didn't seem to have much effect, Sasuke and Itachi are nevertheless pleased by how well they work together. Kabuto once again tries convincing Sasuke to change sides, reminding him of all Itachi's lies and manipulations and explaining how he, like Sasuke, also wants to destroy Konoha. Sasuke is too committed to Itachi to betray him, so Kabuto explores his own similarities to Itachi: how both of them sacrificed their identities for Konoha's greater good and how neither was appreciated for it. This also fails, so Kabuto attacks, manipulating the cave's interior to crush them; Itachi uses his own body to protect Sasuke.

Kabuto slices Itachi

Kabuto cuts through Itachi.

Kabuto tries to get close to Itachi so that he can regain control over his body, but Sasuke keeps him away with Amaterasu until Itachi's body recovers. Itachi admits that he used to be like Kabuto, as he also struggled with who he was and tried to define himself by becoming perfect. He eventually discovered that this was the wrong tactic and that the only way to understand himself was to accept his faults. Kabuto is unmoved, having thought long and hard about one's identity and now firmly committed to his current course. He uses his Strange Transmission Distant Shadow technique in order to manifest aspects of the Sound Five and even Orochimaru, using their broad range of abilities to overwhelm Itachi and Sasuke from a safe distance. They counter each of his attacks and Itachi continues trying to reason with him, frustrating Kabuto enough that he moves closer in order to attack Itachi in person.

Edo Tensei Kai

Kabuto forced to release the Impure World Reincarnation.

Kabuto and Sasuke briefly exchange attacks while Itachi's body recovers. Kabuto avoids serious injury and is able to take Sasuke's sword, which he uses to stab Itachi. Itachi in turn takes the sword back and uses it to cut off the tip of the same horn as before. Kabuto notes the déjà vu of this previous exchange, but thinks nothing of it and resumes the attack. However, the exchange keeps happening over and over, with his horn reappearing each time only to be cut off again: this is Itachi's Izanami, a genjutsu that traps its victims using a sensory loop rather than vision. Kabuto realises that something has happened to him, but none of the jutsu he tries are able to change the outcome. While Kabuto is trapped in his own mind, Itachi opens his brille and uses a genjutsu to force him to release the Impure World Reincarnation, returning himself and everyone else to the Pure Land.

Sasuke shortly afterwards revives Orochimaru using a sample of Kabuto's flesh. Orochimaru then absorbs his own chakra from Kabuto's body and they leave him behind.

Birth of the Ten-Tails' Jinchūriki

Main article: Birth of the Ten-Tails' Jinchūriki

Kabuto Healing Sasuke

Kabuto saving Sasuke.

By design, the only way to escape Izanami is to be humble and to stop trying to alter events in one's favour. Kabuto, by stopping trying to make himself into something new and perfect and instead accepting who he's always been deep down, satisfies this criteria and is released from Izanami. Kabuto is deeply glad to have rediscovered his long-abandoned identity and feels indebted to Itachi for showing it to him. In order to return the favour, Kabuto heads to the last remaining battlefield of the war and uses his medical skills to heal Sasuke's mortal wounds. Although Karin and Suigetsu are suspicious of Kabuto, Sasuke recovers and is able to rejoin the fight against Madara Uchiha.

Kaguya Ōtsutsuki Strikes

Main article: Kaguya Ōtsutsuki Strikes Madara is able to cast Infinite Tsukuyomi, trapping Kabuto and the rest of the world in a dream. Naruto and Sasuke are eventually able to release the Infinite Tsukuyomi, thus freeing the world and ending the war.

New Era

Despite his crimes, Kabuto wasn't imprisoned following the war, and was instead allowed to operate with a degree of autonomy, eventually becoming the director of the Konoha Orphanage. Orochimaru noted to Sasuke that the three of them were not truly free, and had most likely only been spared because the village considered them invaluable tools that could be called upon should another threat to the shinobi world arise.[59]

Sarada Uchiha Arc

Main article: Naruto Gaiden: The Seventh Hokage and the Scarlet Spring

Kabuto Orphanage

Kabuto with the Shin clones at the orphanage.

Naruto, now Hokage, delivers Shin Uchiha's many clones to the orphanage. Kabuto decides that giving each clone their own name should be the top priority.

In Other Media

Movies

Naruto Shippūden the Movie: Bonds

Main article: Naruto Shippūden the Movie: Bonds Sasuke is summoned before Orochimaru and Kabuto. Kabuto informs Sasuke of the Land of the Sky's attack on Konoha, but Sasuke isn't interested. Orochimaru sends Sasuke to capture Shinnō, which he ultimately fails to do, surprising Kabuto.

Video Games

Kabuto Yakushi is a playable character in the following video games:

Game nameJapanese releaseEnglish release
Naruto Mobile20162016
Naruto Shippūden: Clash of Ninja Revolution 317 November 2009
Naruto Shippūden: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! EX 229 November 2007
Naruto Shippūden: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! EX 327 November 2008
Naruto Shippūden: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! Special2 December 2010
Naruto Shippūden: Ninja Destiny 224 April 200815 September 2009
Naruto Shippūden: Ninja Destiny 328 April 2009
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja 45 April 200724 March 2009
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja 520 December 200727 November 2009
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Blazing14 July 201624 August 2016
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 310 December 200911 May 2010
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 221 October 201019 October 2010
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 318 April 20135 March 2013
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 44 February 20169 February 2016
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations23 February 201213 March 2012
Naruto Shippūden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Revolution11 September 201416 September 2014
Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker30 August 201831 August 2018
Naruto x Boruto: Ninja TribesJune 2019June 2019
Naruto x Boruto: Ninja Voltage22 November 201722 November 2017
Naruto x Boruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections16 November 202317 November 2023
Naruto: Clash of Ninja Revolution 221 October 2008
Naruto: Gekitō Ninja Taisen! 421 November 2005
Naruto: Ninja Council 327 April 200622 May 2007
Naruto: Shinobi Collection2014
Naruto: Shinobi Collection Shippū Ranbu27 July 2015
Naruto: The Broken Bond18 November 2008
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 230 September 200412 June 2007
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 322 December 200525 March 2008
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Heroes 2: The Phantom Fortress30 March 200624 June 2008
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Online14 April 201320 July 2016
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm15 January 20094 November 2008

In most games, Kabuto is only playable in one form – with the appearance and abilities he had prior to assimilating with Orochimaru's remains. In later instalments of the Ultimate Ninja Storm series, he is playable in other forms, some of which come with their own movesets:

Trivia

Springtime of Youth
The Springtime of Youth wiki has an article about this topic:
  • A kabuto is the name for a samurai's helmet or headplate. With his former teammates, Yoroi ("armour") and Tsurugi ("sword"), they form an armour—helmet—sword trio.
    • "Kabuto" is also the last part of the Japanese name for Aconitum, a plant that can either alleviate pain or kill, which seems fitting as he is a medical-nin who uses his medicinal knowledge in battle.
  • His surname, Yakushi (薬師), is the short form of the Japanese name of the Medicine/Healer Buddha (long form: Yakushi nyorai), Bhaisajyaguru, and means "medicine user".
  • In the Live Spectacle Naruto, the role of Kabuto was played by Tatsunari Kimura.
  • Studio Pierrot's Settei sheets of Kabuto show that he was 120 cm when he was found by Nono, and 150 cm when he left to join Root with Danzō.
  • According to the databook(s):
    • Kabuto's hobby is taking care of his scalpels.
    • Kabuto wants to fight Naruto and Orochimaru.
    • Kabuto in Konohagakure has completed 191 official missions in total: 163 D-rank, 28 C-rank, 0 B-rank, 0 A-rank, 0 S-rank.
    • Kabuto's favourite phrase is "A thousand changes, ten thousand transformations" (千変万化, Senpen Banka). This proverb refers to innumerable changes or infinite variety.
    • His favourite foods are jack mackerel and sea bream both/either one grilled with salt, while his least favourite food is raw meat.
  • In the fourth databook, neither hiden nor kekkei genkai are listed among Kabuto's special characteristics, despite his usage of both through Strange Transmission Distant Shadow. Summoning is also not listed, despite him summoning snakes and using Impure World Reincarnation.
  • Dragons and snakes are interchangeable in various mythologies, such as in the case of Yamata-no-Orochi. Thus, Kabuto saw himself to have grown from a snake into a dragon.
  • In Rock Lee's Springtime of Youth Full Power Ninja Chronicles, Kabuto serves as both the comedic foil to Orochimaru and the voice of reason when his master's schemes border on idiocy.

Quotes

  • (After accidentally wounding Nonō) "Why didn't mother… …recognise me…? Why didn't she remember me…? Why? What was the purpose of my life then? What did I receive from her!? My name being one of her sons… …even these glasses. Who is… …this…? This isn't me… It's not the real me…"[6]
  • (To Naruto) "After Orochimaru died, I found myself not knowing who I was, again… Without knowing parent or country, I was taken in by the enemy… Since a young age I've moved about countries and villages as a spy… To me, things like countries, villages… they hold no firm reality in my mind. That was, of course, until I found myself under the wing of Orochimaru… but that presence is gone again. What am I anyway… The pain of not having an identity… I'd think you should understand… Naruto."[60]
  • (To Naruto) "I decided I wished to be like you as well, Naruto, and for that reason… with Lord Orochimaru now integrated into this body, I plan on finding a new "me", one stronger than Lord Orochimaru himself! Finding a new me, that is the lesson you taught me."[21]
  • "I am no longer a snake… sage power has allowed me to shed that skin… and I am a dragon now!!"[47]
  • (To Itachi) "My name is a code… My glasses are a tool… I've been no one… From the start. From the very start… I had nothing." (「名は記号…。眼鏡は道具…。最初からボクは何者でもなかった。ボクには…何も無い。」, "Na wa kigō… Megane wa dōgu… Saisho kara boku wa nanimono demo nakatta. Boku ni wa… nani mo nai.")[61]
  • (To Itachi) "A genius that had everything will never understand. …I just want to become myself."[62]
  • (To Suigetsu) "You're right that Obito and I were convinced that we didn't have a place in this world, and we ended up involving everyone else. But now I know who I am and what I have to do."[63]

References

  1. First Databook, pages 128-129
  2. Second Databook, pages 157-159
  3. Third Databook, pages 171-172
  4. 4.0 4.1 Fourth Databook, pages 192-193
  5. 5.0 5.1 Naruto chapter 582, pages 8-17
  6. 6.0 6.1 Naruto chapter 583, pages 15-17
  7. Naruto chapter 584, page 12
  8. Naruto chapter 290, page 14
  9. 9.0 9.1 Naruto: Shippūden episode 316
  10. Naruto: Shippūden episode 456
  11. Naruto chapter 39
  12. 12.0 12.1 12.2 Naruto chapter 579
  13. 13.0 13.1 Naruto chapter 167
  14. 14.0 14.1 Naruto chapter 560, page 3
  15. Naruto chapter 238
  16. Naruto chapter 165
  17. Naruto chapter 62
  18. 18.0 18.1 Naruto chapter 296, pages 12-13
  19. Naruto chapter 88
  20. Naruto chapter 520
  21. 21.0 21.1 Naruto chapter 356, pages 18-19
  22. Naruto chapter 587
  23. 23.0 23.1 Naruto chapter 585
  24. Naruto chapter 700+10
  25. Naruto chapter 88, page 12
  26. Naruto chapter 89, page 2
  27. Naruto chapter 164, page 12
  28. Naruto chapter 579, page 12
  29. Naruto chapter 582, page 5
  30. 30.0 30.1 Naruto chapter 667, pages 2-4
  31. Naruto: Shippūden episode 334
  32. 32.0 32.1 Naruto chapter 514, pages 11-12
  33. Naruto chapter 514, page 17
  34. Naruto chapter 577, page 16
  35. Naruto episode 35
  36. Naruto chapter 290, pages 9-11
  37. Naruto chapter 168, page 9
  38. Naruto chapter 311, page 16
  39. 39.0 39.1 Naruto chapter 515, pages 10-11
  40. Naruto chapter 516, page 8
  41. 41.0 41.1 Naruto chapter 513
  42. Naruto: Shippūden episode 290
  43. Naruto chapter 521, page 5
  44. Naruto chapter 546, page 15
  45. Naruto chapter 522, pages 9-10
  46. Naruto chapter 580, pages 2-4
  47. 47.0 47.1 Naruto chapter 579, page 19
  48. Naruto chapter 585, pages 16-17
  49. Naruto chapter 581, page 16
  50. Naruto chapter 579, page 16
  51. Naruto chapter 580, page 8
  52. 52.0 52.1 Naruto chapter 581
  53. Naruto chapter 114, pages 15-17
  54. Naruto chapter 585
  55. Naruto chapter 156
  56. Naruto chapter 304
  57. Naruto chapter 579, pages 11-12
  58. Naruto chapter 681, page 15
  59. Naruto: Shippūden episode 485
  60. Naruto chapter 356, pages 14-15
  61. Naruto chapter 582, page 17
  62. Naruto chapter 585, page 17
  63. Naruto chapter 667, page 9