Warning: contains spoilers for Boruto: Naruto Next Generation #69!
While the Boruto: Naruto Next Generation #69 the most memorable chapter of the series since the death of Ishhiki Otsutsuki, these huge events also overshadow the chapter's most momentous (albeit obscured) reveal: the death of Sasuke Uchiha.
Sasuke Uchiha has been not only central to the Naruto saga but also one of its most loved and hated characters. It's arguable that more fans like Sasuke than its titular hero Naruto. As the reincarnation of Indra, Sasuke is incredibly important to the story. There are few events that are not somehow tied to his personality, his actions, or his influence. In of fan appreciation, Sasuke's attraction lies in the fact that he is better than Naruto in every aspect but for his goodness. Sasuke's influence has become so big from a creative and fan-based perspective, the conventional wisdom has long been that continuing without him would make the story less interesting and the manga less popular. Accordingly, even with a less direct role, fans were still happy to see him return in Boruto.
Whatever impact Sasuke had on the story previously, if Baruto #69 is any indication, it seems the time has come to send him off. The hints are everywhere. What should first tip fans off that Sasuke is about to exit the story is his conversation with Boruto, which can be seen as a symbolic "ing of the torch." He begins by doing something jaw-droppingly unlike him: apologizing. Boruto might one day be a historic shinobi who accomplishes much, but presently it doesn't seem like he's done much to deserve such respect from arguably the best ninja ever. Even Boruto is surprised by this.
Next, there's the point where Sasuke gives his headband to Boruto. Not only does the headband hold a lot of sentimental value, but it has also saved his life on a number of occasions. By giving it to Boruto, Sasuke may be showing he will soon have no use for it. Unless he plans to get a replacement, this action suggests that he does not see himself fighting anymore - or, more likely, that he understands that the next fight will be his last. Indeed, his cryptic remark a few moments later of having to be the one who will need "to show his resolve" foretells Sasuke senses a fight is coming to test him to his max.
Boruto's acceptance of the headband and his own promise to "treasure it" for the rest of his life also portends that the most likely person to kill Sasuke, or somehow be involved in his death, will be Kawaki. In the first issue, as Boruto and Kawaki face off, Boruto can be seen taking out and wearing the very same headband that Sasuke just gave him. Clearly, he had not worn it prior to that point, and donning it at that point must have some significant symbolic meaning.
Getting rid of Sasuke is necessary if mangaka Masashi Kishimoto wants to push the new generation of ninjas forward, as the title of the manga states. While Sasuke has served as a sort of figurative anchor to the Naruto era, Boruto, Sarada, Mitsuki have now been developed enough that - based on the events of this chapter - it seems it's time for them to stop being able to rely on Sasuke Uchiha.
Boruto: Naruto Next Generation #69 is available now from Viz Media.
