Ch. 161Ultra Instinct Initiation
Chapter Summary: “Ultra Instinct Initiation”
Key Plot Points and Events
- In the God of Destruction Realm, Whis observes the Supreme Kai Realm through his staff’s crystal ball and detects Son Wuling’s breakthrough. He realizes that Wuling has not merely learned ordinary Ultra Instinct but has used it to break through the limits of mortal life and ascend to godhood.
- Whis is impressed that an Earthling has achieved such extraordinary power and looks forward to meeting him. He also anticipates Lord Beerus’s reaction once Beerus awakens.
- In the Supreme Kai Realm, Wuling successfully stabilizes his newly awakened Ultra Instinct aura. He recognizes that his version differs from the Ultra Instinct remembered from Son Goku: even at the initial stage, he can use its power offensively.
- Wuling concludes that his current strength vastly exceeds his former expectations, surpassing even Mystic Gohan and the Super Saiyan 3 level from his memories.
- He returns to East Supreme Kai Shin, Kibito, and Old Kai, apologizes for losing control of his power, and thanks them for helping him understand divine energy and Ultra Instinct.
- Shin and Kibito are stunned by Wuling’s overwhelming divine presence. Shin remarks that Wuling may even surpass the Grand Supreme Kai, while Old Kai praises Wuling for creating his own path to godhood.
- Wuling learns that it is only shortly after four in the morning on Earth, leaving plenty of time before the significant 21:21 deadline connected to No. 21.
- Before departing, Wuling gives Old Kai a Capsule containing “transparent seed videos,” reminds them that they can communicate through the internet and Flying Pigeon, and takes the damaged Supreme Kai Sword with him.
- Wuling returns to Mount Paozu using Instant Transmission and reverts to his normal appearance.
- At dawn, Rose and Son Goku begin their morning training with a race around Mount Paozu. They agree that the loser must walk upside down from the mountain’s base to the house.
- Goku initially cheats by starting before the countdown finishes and races in Super Saiyan form. Rose quickly catches him.
- Goku transforms into Super Saiyan 2 to gain speed, but Rose uses World-Shaking Palm energy combined with green energy and electricity to catch up again, refusing to lose.
Character Developments
- Son Wuling: Achieves “Ultra Instinct initiation,” gaining divine status and a massive increase in power. Unlike the Ultra Instinct in his memories, his version can be used for attacks from the beginning. He remains humble and considerate despite his transformation, thanking the Kais and apologizing for the disturbance he caused.
- Whis: Becomes aware of Wuling’s existence and shows strong admiration and curiosity. His interest suggests Wuling may soon attract the attention of Beerus and the wider divine world.
- East Supreme Kai Shin: Gains a new appreciation for how powerful Wuling has become and openly acknowledges that Wuling may exceed even the Grand Supreme Kai.
- Old Kai: Continues to act eccentric, especially in his excitement over the Capsule’s contents, but sincerely recognizes Wuling’s unprecedented achievement.
- Kibito: Is overwhelmed by Wuling’s divine aura and increasingly confused by Old Kai’s undignified behavior, highlighting the contrast between his reverence for the Supreme Kai Realm and its inhabitants’ quirks.
- Rose: Demonstrates exceptional physical ability, discipline, and competitive determination. She can keep pace with Goku even after he advances from Super Saiyan to Super Saiyan 2.
- Son Goku: Remains cheerful and playful but is still extremely competitive. He cheats during the race and escalates his transformations when Rose catches up, showing both his confidence and excitement at finding a strong training partner.
Significant Themes
- Mortal transcendence: Wuling’s achievement represents a human breaking through traditional limits and reaching a divine state through personal cultivation rather than inheritance.
- Individuality of power: Wuling’s Ultra Instinct is not simply a copy of Goku’s; it has developed according to his own path and allows offensive use even at its initial stage.
- Humility after greatness: Although Wuling gains overwhelming power, he continues to credit others and behave modestly.
- Training and self-improvement: The chapter contrasts Wuling’s divine breakthrough with Rose and Goku’s physical training, emphasizing that growth comes through effort, competition, and experimentation.
- Comedy amid cosmic developments: Old Kai’s fixation on the Capsule and Goku’s cheating keep the chapter lighthearted despite the seriousness of Wuling’s godhood.
- Rising divine attention: Whis’s observation signals that Wuling’s breakthrough has attracted notice from higher powers and may alter the balance of the universe.
Important Character Interactions
- Whis and Wuling: Whis observes Wuling from afar, praises his achievement, and expresses anticipation about meeting him.
- Wuling and Shin, Kibito, and Old Kai: Wuling apologizes for his uncontrolled power and thanks them for their guidance. They respond with awe and admiration.
- Wuling and Old Kai: Wuling gives Old Kai the Capsule and the damaged Supreme Kai Sword, while Old Kai eagerly accepts the gift and reveals his ongoing eccentricity.
- Rose and Goku: Their playful race becomes a competitive training match. Rose criticizes Goku for cheating, while Goku responds by transforming further. Rose counters with her own technique, establishing her as a serious rival in training.