Following the end of the Fourth Great Ninja War in the Naruto series, the leaders of each nation passed on their roles to the younger generation. However, the Third Tsuchikage initially embraced this transition but later resorted to creating fabrications, synthetic beings, to protect his village covertly, revealing a darker side to his character.
While Onoki's original intent behind the fabrications was noble – to ensure the safety of his people – the outcome was disastrous. These artificial entities, equipped with potent skills such as Dust Release and Explosive Clay, not only failed to bring peace but also led to Onoki's tragic demise, marking a stark contrast to his initial intentions. The episode served as a significant learning curve for Boruto and Team 7, emphasizing the essence of resilience and solidarity in the ninja universe.
Unveiling the Fabrications' Purpose
The era of tranquility ushered in a decline in combat skills among the new generation of ninjas, prompting Onoki to propose the creation of synthetic humans as a solution to minimize casualties in battles. This initiative stemmed from the personal tragedy of losing his grandson to rogue ninja attacks five years earlier.
The fabrications, a fusion of White Zetsu and human DNA, including the prototype Ku spawned from Onoki's genetic material, were designed to act as Onoki's extensions. Initially perceived as devoid of free will, the fabrications eventually exhibited autonomy, contrary to Onoki's assumptions.
Akuta: The Pioneering Synthetic Warriors
Prior to the fabrications, Onoki experimented with the creation of Akuta, stone creatures devoid of self-will, through a secretive technique. After enhancements, these beasts evolved into formidable soldiers comparable to regular shinobi, entrusted to Ku and the fabrications to execute their missions.
With assistance from a mysterious scientist, the Akuta production surged, albeit with limited lifespans and intelligence. Despite their eventual disintegration, they could regenerate as long as their masks remained intact.
The Prowess of Each Fabrication
The fabrications — Ku, Kokuyo, Kako, Kirara, and Sekiei — surpassed ordinary shinobi in strength, some wielding rare Kekkei Genkai abilities. Ku, a reflection of Onoki, wielded the Atomic Dismantling Jutsu, disintegrating matter upon contact. Kako possessed Particle Style but with a cooldown, unlike Kokuyo, proficient in taijutsu. Sekiei mastered the Explosive Clay technique, akin to Deidera, while Kirara's eyes possessed a compelling genjutsu.
The Destiny of the Fabrications
With a limited lifespan, the fabrications sought Mitsuki's synthetic body for a heart transplant to prolong their existence. Despite their resilience, Boruto and his comrades vanquished each fabrication sequentially, leaving Ku as the sole survivor. Ku's revival with the scientist's heart was short-lived, as Onoki's intervention led to his defeat, symbolizing the end of an era.
The aftermath left the Hidden Stone Village in disarray, mourning the loss of the Third Tsuchikage and questioning the fabrications' origins with the scientist's enigmatic fate.
The Impact of the Incident
Although the fabrications' saga didn't directly impact the Hidden Leaf Village, it catalyzed Boruto and Team 7's personal growth. Mitsuki's involvement with the fabrications aimed to comprehend his identity, while Boruto's unwavering loyalty underscored the importance of camaraderie, echoing Naruto's past struggles.
The demise of the Third Tsuchikage, a first among the Five Kage in the Boruto series, marked a turning point. Onoki's imparted wisdom to Boruto showcased a generational shift, emphasizing the legacy left behind by the fabrications — a poignant reminder of individual willpower.
Boruto can be streamed on Prime Video.