Chōji is paralyzed by his innate kindness and memories of Asuma's mentorship.
He must suppress his grief to lead Ino and Chōji through the most emotionally difficult mission of their lives. Ino Yamanaka (The Emotional Anchor): Naruto Shippuden Episode 273
This feature highlights the specific emotional and tactical struggles each member of the Ino-Shika-Cho trio faces in this episode: Chōji is paralyzed by his innate kindness and