Ep 201. Empty Tears

Boruto: Naruto Next Generations season 1 episode 201 is titled "Empty Tears". The episode follows the aftermath of the battle between the White Snake Sage and Team 7, where Boruto and his friends are left to deal with the implications of their actions. As they journey back to the Hidden Leaf Village, each member of the team is left to confront their own struggles and emotions.

The episode opens with Boruto, Sarada, and Mitsuki walking through the forest as they reflect on the events that just transpired. Boruto is clearly troubled, feeling guilty for his role in damaging the White Snake Sage's home. Sarada, on the other hand, is preoccupied with the secret she discovered about her father. Mitsuki observes his friends, silently aware of his own feelings of isolation and detachment.

Upon their return to the village, Boruto and Mitsuki are called into the Hokage's office. Naruto is disappointed in Boruto's behavior and reminds him of the importance of being a shinobi. Boruto feels ashamed and apologizes to Naruto. Meanwhile, Mitsuki reveals to the Hokage that Orochimaru has been experimenting on him and that he wants to learn more about his origins. Naruto acknowledges Mitsuki's desire for knowledge and agrees to help him navigate his past.

Sarada, however, remains consumed by her own thoughts. She seeks out her mother, Sakura, and confesses that she has discovered evidence that her father may not be her biological parent. Sakura is shaken by this revelation but reassures her daughter that her love for her is unwavering. She encourages Sarada to focus on the present and to continue to grow as a shinobi.

As the members of Team 7 navigate their individual struggles, they all experience moments of loneliness and despair. Boruto confronts his guilt about his actions and his fear of being alone. Mitsuki grapples with his feelings of detachment and his desire to understand his past. Sarada is left with a sense of confusion and uncertainty surrounding her identity.

However, the episode ends on a note of hope. The three friends come together at a playground, where Sarada shares her own feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Mitsuki and Boruto reassure her that they are a team and that they will support each other through any obstacle. The episode ends with the three friends laughing and playing, a moment of camaraderie amidst their individual struggles.

"Empty Tears" is a character-driven episode that explores the emotional complexities of the show's main protagonists. The episode offers a poignant reflection on the different ways in which individuals confront their vulnerabilities and highlights the importance of friendship and support in times of crisis.