This filler is starting to look like it might be better than the actual, 100% (or close to it) manga based arcs. I don't appreciate this kind of tinkering with the way of things. What next? Bleach becomes a good anime? Heresy...
But anyway, not much plot development occured here. They found the bad guys, and now what should be a rather cool fight is going to start up here. I'm really enjoying the pace this is moving at too. My only complaint is the character design of the females. They don't look like they belong in this anime. I guess if you're not from one of the ninja villages, that's acceptable, but still, it looks out of place.