Ep 7. Run, Kankuro

In Naruto Shippuden season 1 episode 7, titled "Run, Kankuro," the story picks up with the aftermath of the previous episode's battle. The Leaf ninja have repelled the Sand and Sound attackers and are nursing their wounds. Meanwhile, the Sand siblings leave the Leaf village with their comatose Kazekage brother, Gaara.

As they make their way back to the Sand Village, they encounter Sasori, a former member of their own village who has defected to the rival organization, Akatsuki. Sasori has come to claim the Kazekage's body, as he intends to extract the tailed beast within Gaara for use in Akatsuki's plans.

The Sand siblings attempt to fight back but are quickly overpowered by Sasori's puppet-based abilities. Kankuro, the puppeteer of the group, sacrifices himself to protect his siblings and is gravely injured in the process.

With little hope of survival, Kankuro's siblings hurriedly transport him to the Leaf village, hoping that the medical ninjas there can save his life. Meanwhile, Sasori continues his journey with the Kazekage's body, the first step towards completing his plans for Akatsuki.

The episode delivers intense action and drama as the battle between the Sand siblings and Sasori reaches its climax. The fight scenes are well-animated and showcase the various abilities of the characters in exciting detail.

The story also presents new perspectives on characters, particularly Kankuro, who is given more depth and development through his selfless act of sacrifice. This episode emphasizes the themes of loyalty and sacrifice, showcasing the lengths that these ninja will go in order to protect their loved ones.

Overall, "Run, Kankuro" is a gripping and emotional episode that sets the stage for the larger conflict between Akatsuki and the ninja villages of the world.