Throughout theBorutofranchise, fans of Masashi Kishimoto’s Shinobi World have been introduced to a whole new side of this fascinating society. From ancient world-ending alien civilizations to cyborgs with abilities that break the laws of nature, the series does not lack engaging antagonists, most of whom rely solely on raw power to win.
Still, one of the most pivotal enemies for the titular protagonist has been slowly adapting to the new world in which he has found himself trapped:Momoshiki. Despite commencing the series asa ruthless and overconfident member of the Otsutsuki clan, he has evolved into a capable ninja. His fight against the Hidden Leaf Shinobi in episode #218 proves that he is no longer the same fighter who arrived at Earth at the beginning of the story.
Momoshiki Has Adapted To Boruto’s Fighting Style
He No Longer Relies On His Otsutsuki Abilities To Win Battles
When he was first introduced during chapter #2 of theBorutomanga, Momoshiki was an arrogant otherworldly warrior who saw humans as pests with no right to exist. His unique techniques, like the ability to absorb Jutsu, flight, and increased physical aptitudes turned him into an imposing opponent that not even Naruto and Sasuke could face alone. Yet, during most of the fight,Momoshiki noticeably relied heavily on his race’s unique skills, believing that they would be enough to guarantee his victory. In the end, he was defeated thanks to the combined power of Boruto and Naruto.
Before his death, Momoshiki implanted a part of himself into the Seventh Hokage’s son, as he hoped to one day take over his body and be reborn. From that point forward, the once mighty Otsutsuki warrior was forced to silently witness the adventures of his host. While this might sound like unbearable torture, it seems as ifMomoshiki used this opportunity to learn from his mistakesand study the fighting style of the ninjas from Earth. These lessons were invaluable for his brief but brutal encounter with Sasuke and Kawaki in episode #218.
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As soon as he was able to take control of his host’s body, Momoshiki used one of Boruto’s kunai to stab Sasuke’s Rinnegan,one of the most powerful Dojutsu in the world. Instead of taking an offensive approach, the Otsutsuki studied his opponents, using everything from Shadow Clones to Rasengan to overwhelm his adversaries. His battle style was completely different from the one he demonstrated in the past. If not for Kawaki utilizing one of his most powerful techniques to help Boruto regain control, Momoshiki could have defeated his opponents.
Momoshiki Has a Newfound Appreciation For Humans
His Feelings Could Mirror Those Of Kaguya
In episodes #460 and #461 of theNarutoanime,the backstory of Kaguya Otsutsuki is revealed, showing her life after landing on Earth. During these moments, fans were witnesses to her transformation from an arrogant extraterrestrial to a caring individual who wanted to prevent more human suffering. Her time among earthly beings helped her develop a bond with them, culminating in her desire to protect them from danger. These loving feelings were woefully replaced by a hunger for power after she was forced to eat the Chakra Fruit to protect her children.
Momoshiki could be going through a similar process, as his time stuck inside Boruto has forced him to witness all humans have to offer. He saw the protagonist fight for his friends, help complete strangers just because it was the right thing to do, andhas observed the many battle styles that Earth’s warriors have created. Although unwillingly, Momoshiki now understands humans better than most other Otsutsuki. The fact that he incorporated Boruto’s style into his own is proof that he no longer considers everything relating to the species as inferior.
It is ambitious to propose that Boruto’s host will one day develop the same affection for humans as Kaguya did, as he has proven time and time again how ruthless he can be. Nevertheless, there is a high probability that he has found a new respect for the warriors of the planet he once tried to feed on. If a major threat, like Jura and his Divine Trees, becomes a hindrance to his plans, it would not be too far-fetched to think thatMomoshiki could ally himself with Naruto’s son, at least momentarily.
The Otsutsuki clan remains one of theBorutofranchise’s most intriguing themes, and their lore will keep expanding as the series progresses. By havingMomoshikichange his attitude towards humans, the series could show that there is more to this alien family than their desire to grow stronger.
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations
Cast
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations follows Boruto Uzumaki, the son of Seventh Hokage Naruto Uzumaki, as he joins the Ninja Academy amidst changing times for shinobi. As mysterious events unfold, Boruto’s journey begins, establishing a new chapter in the Naruto universe. Released in 2017, the series expands on the ninja legacy.
