The latest chapter of Boruto: Two Blue Vortex has garnered significant attention, recently ranking among the top ten chapters on Manga Plus for 2025. While the story intensifies with the looming threat of the Ten-Tails, fans feel a noticeable absence of several beloved characters from the original Naruto series. The reintroduction of these characters could provide not only nostalgic appeal but also deepen the narrative as Konoha’s heroes navigate mounting challenges.
Though some familiar faces have returned, such as Shikamaru, who is now Hokage, and Sakura, who appeared in Chapter #14, many key figures remain missing. Characters like Kakashi Hatake, who has a complex history involving Sasuke Uchiha, are particularly notable by their absence. Kakashi’s role as a mentor and leader raises questions about his current whereabouts and responsibilities. His absence creates a gap that could serve as a narrative tool to explore Boruto’s evolving dynamic with his predecessors.
The absence of Iruka Umino, Naruto’s first teacher and a pivotal figure in his life, is equally perplexing. Iruka’s supportive presence during Naruto’s wedding highlighted his importance. Now, with Naruto missing and presumed dead, Iruka’s potential reaction could add emotional depth to Boruto’s character arc. His silence in the face of such turmoil leaves fans wondering how he would respond to the unfolding events.
Another character whose absence is felt is Killer B, the current jinchūriki of the Eight-Tails. Although he has appeared in the anime, his limited role in the manga raises concerns about the guidance he could provide to Himawari, who is developing into a unique hybrid of human and Tailed Beast. Killer B’s mentorship could offer valuable insights as Himawari navigates her powers.
The return of Chōji Akamichi could also enhance the narrative. As a member of the original Ino-Shika-Cho trio, his expertise in combat would be beneficial during Konoha’s current struggles. Despite appearing in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, his contributions to significant battles remain minimal. His involvement could not only enrich the storyline but also reinforce the legacy of teamwork from the original series.
Furthermore, Rock Lee has also been largely overlooked in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex. His son, Metal Lee, is similarly underutilized, raising concerns about the representation of the next generation of shinobi. Rock Lee’s absence from critical moments, especially in light of Might Guy’s recent challenges, leaves a void that could be filled with his unique perspective on combat and camaraderie.
Another prominent figure, Tsunade, the former Fifth Hokage, has been notably retired from the storyline. While the narrative structure of Boruto prioritizes active characters, Tsunade’s experience and leadership could still offer valuable insights during this perilous time. Fans would appreciate seeing her engage with the next generation, perhaps in a lighter moment that reflects her character’s spirit.
The potential return of Chōjūrō, the Sixth Mizukage, could also expand the storyline beyond Konoha. With the introduction of new threats, exploring alliances and dynamics with other villages would enrich the narrative. Similarly, Darui, the Fifth Raikage, represents a critical connection to the broader political landscape, particularly as Boruto’s reputation declines following the Omnipotence Arc.
Lastly, the enigmatic presence of Orochimaru remains a point of intrigue. His absence, despite the ongoing chaos and potential for his expertise in scientific endeavors, raises questions about his role in the unfolding events. His eventual return could significantly impact the plot, providing the insight necessary to confront the challenges posed by the Divine Trees.
As Boruto: Two Blue Vortex continues its journey, the reintroduction of these iconic characters could not only satiate fan nostalgia but also enhance the overall narrative depth of the series. The evolving relationships and dynamics between the generations of shinobi promise to deliver compelling storytelling as the series progresses.
