Boruto's chapter 1 flashforward says more than fans realize

The flashforward in Boruto chapter 1 offers far more insight into the protagonist and Kawaki's paths than fans might initially realize. This powerful sequence, packed with foreshadowing and symbolic weight, hints at Boruto’s reluctant acceptance of a tragic future, Kawaki abandoning the Shinobi way, and the inevitable clash between these two once-brothers.

As the protagonist clings to his identity as a ninja, even while burdened by the dangerous powers of Momoshiki, Kawaki appears ready to end the Shinobi era altogether. This glimpse into their future provides a layered, haunting preview of the sacrifices and loyalties shaping their fates.

Boruto’s acceptance of the fate of the Shinobi

A snapshot from the anime series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The flashforward sequence in chapter 1 offers a dense, mysterious glimpse into the two brothers' future paths, infused with subtle foreshadowing and deep emotional weight. Reflecting on these moments reveals insights into the protagonist's and Kawaki's evolving motivations, choices, and conflicts.

“Was this the only possible outcome?”

This line Boruto spoke in the flashforward relates to his conversation with Kashin Koji in chapter 13 of the Two Blue Vortex manga.

During this exchange, Koji warned the protagonist of futures where catastrophic outcomes are inevitable, mentioning the Earth’s potential destruction by the god tree, or Shinju. However, the protagonist vowed to create a future where Kawaki survives. The flashforward suggests that the protagonist might ultimately accept that an ideal outcome may be impossible.

Boruto’s identity as a Shinobi

During the first flashforward, the protagonist’s response about him still being a Shinobi is another powerful assertion in this scene, especially when Kawaki declares the end of the Shinobi era. This line reflects Boruto’s commitment to preserving his identity as a ninja and symbolizes his decision to stand as Kawaki’s final opposition.

Throughout part 1, the two share a close, brotherly bond; however, Kawaki, fearing the Otsutsuki within the protagonist, has shown a willingness to end the protagonist’s life. This intense stand-off between the two represents an ultimate showdown, with the protagonist’s commitment to his ninja path in direct defiance of Kawaki’s disillusionment with the Shinobi way.

The protagonist and Kawaki as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The resonance of their Karma marks is a significant aspect of their intertwined destinies. Boruto and Kawaki’s Karmas respond to each other automatically, which forces the protagonist into situations where he must activate his Karma, a process that causes him great pain.

In Two Blue Vortex chapter 9, Kawaki uses his Karma to force the protagonist into a confrontation, which the latter flees. This resonance of the Karma hints at a painful inevitability that drives the two toward conflict. The flashforward shows Kawaki’s Karma fully activated, while that of the protagonist only partially spreads to his arms. This emphasizes Kawaki’s intention to engage the protagonist in a Karma-powered clash.

The impact of Momoshiki’s powers on Boruto’s future

Momoshiki Otsutsuki as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The series also hints at the evolution of the protagonist’s abilities, particularly his Dojutsu and the influence of Momoshiki’s powers. Since the protagonist and Momoshiki have merged, the protagonist can access certain powers, including visions of the future, as seen when he has a vision in part 1, chapter 76.

In the flashforward, the protagonist appears to use a dojutsu when activating his Karma, potentially allowing him glimpses of the future. These abilities add a layer of complexity to the protagonist's journey, as they afford him foresight, but they also underscore the power and danger he harbors within.

Boruto and Kawaki have joined forces to take down the Shinju (Image via Shueisha)

In chapter 15 of Two Blue Vortex, the two brothers temporarily aligned to battle the Shinju, yet the flashforward implies that they have already defeated these entities and are poised to face each other. Kawaki's statement that he'll send the protagonist to where the Seventh Hokage is may hint that Kawaki intends to seal the protagonist in the timeless dimension that also keeps Naruto.

The flashforward sequence also reveals Kawaki’s transformation, both in attire and outlook. His traditional ninja clothing hints that he may have absorbed certain ninja principles, possibly from his own opponents.

Meanwhile, his new goal to end the Shinobi era may reflect his disillusionment with the world of ninjas or a reaction to the resistance he faced. His redefined identity and mission set him on an almost fanatical course, one that fundamentally conflicts with the protagonist’s commitment to the ninja way.

Final thoughts

Kawaki as shown in the anime series (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The flashforward serves as a rich prelude, laying down layers of meaning in each interaction and line. Boruto and Kawaki’s intricate, painful bond unfolds with every chapter, hinting at both their inevitable confrontation and the profound tragedy within their connection. With each reveal, fans are left to ponder where this story of brotherhood and conflict will ultimately lead.