"Thanks To My Master" - Boruto: Two Blue Vortex Continues One Of The Franchise's Best And Most Important Themes

Boruto: Two Blue Vortex is an exciting story that has revitalized the manga with a sequence of twists and interesting developments, but it is also making sure to keep the lessons and themes from Naruto at its forefront. The second part of the series has made multiple homages to Naruto so far, and while it maintains a distinct style of story, it is paying respect to what started it all and fans couldn't be happier.

In chapter #15 of Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, Boruto and Kawaki had their first non-violent confrontation in years, and this led to an important talk. This is where Boruto reveals that Amado placed limiters on Kawaki's power, and they proceeded to form an alliance to take down Jura. Before that though, Kawaki asked Boruto why he didn't reveal the truth about Omnipotence, and the reply makes it clear that one of the most important themes from Naruto is still alive and well in its sequel.

Boruto Is Putting An Emphasis On Student-Master Relationships

Boruto And Sasuke Are A Fantastic Duo

Boruto said he could endure the hardships caused by Omnipotence because of the fortitude he inherited from his teacher, Sasuke. Since the second part began, Boruto has shown his admiration for his master on many occasions, and it makes sense given they spent three years together, and Sasuke not only taught him many skills and techniques, but he also saved his life from Code. Boruto now embodies what it means to be a Shadow Hokage, not just in actions but also in how he preserves Konoha's safety behind the scenes and protects the village without any recognition or praise.

It is quite interesting how Boruto's respect for Sasuke started out as nothing more than fascination, but they gradually continued to bond. The two continue to become closer, and what really makes their relationship even better is that Sasuke decides to protect Boruto even when his mind is brainwashed to think he has killed Naruto. This is one of the best moments in their relationship, and even if Sasuke was technically under the influence of Omnipotence, he continued to protect Boruto. While being a good father to Sarada did play a part, he still cared about his student.

While Naruto has had many themes, such as defying destiny, forging bonds, and breaking the cycle of hatred, one thing that made the series unique is how much it emphasized the relationship between a student and a teacher. This is a common trope in shonen manga with iconic duos like Gohan and Piccolo, Ichigo and Urahara, but Naruto did it so many times, that it was clear the respect Kishimoto had for his mentors.

Furthermore, these relationships are integral to the story. Asuma's death led to Shikamaru finally maturing, Jiraiya's death made Naruto understand Sasuke's pain, Tsunade helped Sakura become the kunoichi she wanted, Kakashi trained and helped Sasuke any way he could, Obito's relationship with Miinato was integral in bringing him to the good side, and many more dynamics that are still fondly remembered by fans today.

Boruto Needs Other Master And Student Relationships

One Mentor Is Not Enough

While making Sasuke an integral part of Boruto's life was great, the series does need to give other characters and their mentors screen time. The most obvious choice would be Sarada, and there is the potential to give her an interesting dynamic with a teacher. for example, explaining how she learned to use new techniques like the Chidori Nagashi could be a way to introduce a master. Furthermore, Sarada needs someone to teach her how to use the Mangekyo Sharingan. What better person could do that than Kakashi Hatake, the sixth Hokage who invented Chidori and a former user of the Mangekyo Sharingan?

Himawari is another interesting character who would benefit a lot from having a teacher. Now that she can use Kurama's power, she can train to utilize it more efficiently. In her fight against Jura, he noted that she ran out of chakra fast, which is to be expected, since this is her first time using Kurama's chakra. There is no one as perfect to teach her how to be a better "Jinchuriki" than Killer Bee, and it would be a nice moment given Bee also taught Naruto how to tame his powers.

Boruto Is A Mix Of Sasuke And Naruto

Boruto's Ideals Reconcile Those Of His Father And His Mentor

Boruto is not only a master swordsman like Sasuke, but also wears a cape, his headband, and a black outfit. He mirrors his master in any way he can, showing the deep admiration he has for him. However, he is still his father's son and regards him just as highly as Sasuke. In fact, the reason Boruto didn't despair when Omnipotence switched his and Kawaki's lives was because he thought of what Naruto would do and decided to persevere.

Related

Boruto Isn't Just a Prodigy, Two Blue Vortex Proves He's The Perfect Fusion of Sasuke & Naruto

Boruto's ideals and fighting style prove that he has not only been influenced by Sasuke, but also by his father Naruto.

While Boruto: Two Blue Vortex's main theme is the examination of what it means to be a shinobi in an age where science and technology are relied upon, it maintains Naruto's legacy by including one of the series' fundamental messages. Although there is room for improvement and more similar relationships for it to be as good as Naruto's depiction of it, but the bond between Boruto and Sasuke is already a great step forward.

Boruto: Two Blue Vortex

Years after fleeing his village with Sasuke, Boruto returns to confront the dark changes that have occurred. With memories altered and Kawaki now seen as the hero, Boruto faces a world where he is the outcast. The two rivals must settle their differences as their Otsutsuki powers grow more dangerous.

Writer Masashi Kishimoto

Artist Mikio Ikemoto