, titled "The Two Students" , serves as the emotional bridge between the high-octane battle with Pain and the philosophical climax of the arc. Episode Overview Original Air Date (Japan): July 22, 2010. English Dub Release: March 23, 2013.
Naruto finally defeats the Deva Path and chooses to confront the "real" Pain (Nagato) through words rather than just force. Key Plot Summary Naruto Shippuuden (Dub) Episode 169
Naruto uses the black chakra receivers from the Deva Path's body to track Nagato's location. Despite protests from Konoha ninja like Inoichi, who believe Naruto should be backed up or that Nagato should be killed immediately, Shikaku Nara trusts Naruto’s judgment and allows him to go alone. , titled "The Two Students" , serves as