Boruto’s Latest Timeskip Shows Gaara’s Transformation into Naruto

The recently released chapter 15 of Boruto: Two Blue Vortex has unfortunate news for those standing against the Shinju. With the introduction of Ryu, a Shinju mirroring Gaara’s adoptive son Shinki, the God Tree entities have significantly strengthened. The fact that Matsuri single-handedly confronted and defeated Gaara, along with the new-age Sand Siblings, speaks volumes about their power.

However, there’s a glimmer of hope, as Shinki has managed to imprison Gaara within an Iron Sand Prison. This prison can only be accessed by Shinki himself and now Ryu as well. This situation suggests an intriguing trend; a similar occurrence transpired recently, where Kawaki sealed Naruto and Hinata in an effort to keep them safe.

Note: This article contains spoilers.

The recent time skip emphasizes Boruto’s aim to transform Gaara into another Naruto

Chapter 15 of Boruto: Two Blue Vortex presents a fascinating parallel. The narrative has been remarkable thus far, and Mikio Ikemoto continues to impress with each new release. The portrayal of Shinju as a formidable force, while the Shinobi strive to obstruct their ambitions, is a brilliant move.

This discussion revolves around Shinki sealing Gaara to shield him. To provide some context, Matsuri (a Shinju inspired by Moegi) ventured into the Land of Wind seeking Boruto and his allies’ chakra. However, she inadvertently discovered an old hideout of Orochimaru, where she encountered Gaara and the new-age Sand Siblings, who were drawn there by Matsuri’s chakra.

Although initially uninterested in them, Matsuri engaged in combat. In the ensuing battle, Gaara sustained severe injuries in his attempts to protect the new Sand Siblings. Eventually, Shinki broke free and contained Gaara within an Iron Sand Prison, effectively transforming him into a tree. Matsuri acknowledged that Shinki’s technique was robust and could only be undone by him.

Kawaki and Naruto (Image via Studio Pierrot)

This scenario is reminiscent of events in Boruto Part I. In chapter 77, Kawaki resolves to eliminate all Otsutsuki. To safeguard Naruto and Hinata from them, he seals them away in a separate dimension. He does this against their will, leaving them in a comatose state, unaware of their surroundings.

Ikemoto appears to be intentionally drawing parallels, recreating this scenario but now involving Gaara and Shinki. The notable difference is that while Gaara is safe, Shinki becomes a tree, with Ryu emerging as his Shinju. Yet, this isn’t the sole aspect being mirrored by Ikemoto. Gaara’s evolving role as a leader and mentor in the Sand Village echoes Naruto’s position as a father figure and guide for Kawaki and Boruto.

This parallel becomes even more pronounced following the time skip and the developments in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex. The connection between Gaara and Shinki resembles that of Naruto and Kawaki, especially in how both adopted sons have grappled with their personal insecurities and emotions. Initially, both were cold and rageful, but thanks to the guidance of Naruto and Gaara, their perspectives on the world began to shift.

In summary

Shinki and Gaara (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Kawaki’s decision to seal Naruto and Hinata away in a misguided attempt to “protect”them signifies a pivotal moment in his character development. Subsequently, he embarks on a darker journey, much like the challenges Gaara faced when he struggled with Shukaku and the fears it instilled in others. The burden of leadership, alongside his responsibilities towards Shinki and the village, molded Gaara into a mentor similar to how Naruto was for Kawaki.

Gaara’s journey, as seen in Naruto, reflects in the way he guides Shinki, paralleling Naruto’s treatment of Kawaki. This dynamic between a father figure and his adopted son highlights a cycle of growth, healing, and accountability, reinforcing the notion that Boruto is positioning Gaara to embody aspects of Naruto. Both characters must navigate the complexities of leadership and protection while nurturing the next generation in a tumultuous world.

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