Overview
- Kokushibo, recognized as Upper Rank One of the Twelve Kizuki, stands as an embodiment of fear, rivaling even Muzan Kibutsuji in terms of power.
- His intense fear of mortality pushed him to forsake his humanity in exchange for demonic existence.
- Despite attaining immortality and formidable strength, Kokushibo’s ultimate dread remained: the prospect of failure, which he encountered during a fateful confrontation with his brother.
WARNING: This article contains significant spoilers related to the Demon Slayer manga.
Kokushibo’s Origin in Demon Slayer
Circumstances of His Transformation
Kokushibo, originally known as Michikatsu Tsukiguni, was born during the tumultuous Sengoku period. This era held a superstition that twins brought misfortune. When their father threatened to kill his twin brother Yoriichi due to a peculiar mark on his forehead, their mother intervened to save him. Their upbringing could not have been more different; Yoriichi was often isolated in his room, while Michikatsu directed his efforts towards training to become a samurai.
An early incident displaying Yoriichi’s extraordinary capabilities deepened Michikatsu’s envy—despite being trained as a samurai, he never quite matched his brother’s natural prowess. The two eventually joined the Demon Slayer Corps where Michikatsu matured in skill alongside Yoriichi.
The Path to Becoming a Demon
During his lifetime as a samurai, Michikatsu married and fathered two children. Tragedy struck one night when a demon ambushed their troop, resulting in a massacre. Yoriichi’s timely intervention saved Michikatsu’s life. Joining the Demon Slayer Corps allowed the brothers to train together, with Yoriichi creating the formidable sun-breathing technique, inspiring subsequent styles such as Wind and Moon Breathing.
As fate would have it, Michikatsu developed a Demon Slayer mark akin to his brother’s. Yet, rather than feeling proud, he spiraled into frustration, especially considering the mark’s ominous limitation of a lifespan to just 25 years. This dread prompted him to accept the offer from Muzan Kibutsuji to transform into a demon, catalyzing his descent into darkness.
The path I have walked is nothing but an endless pursuit of strength. I have no regrets – Kokushibo
You think you can defeat me? I am an existence beyond human comprehension – Kokushibo
Armed with unparalleled swordsmanship and a unique blood demon art that allows for blade manipulation, Kokushibo remains a nightmare for those who oppose him. However, beneath his formidable exterior lay hidden fears that often escaped notice.
What Instills Fear in Kokushibo?
Nightmares of the Upper Moon One Kizuki
It may seem improbable that a demon of Kokushibo’s might could harbor fear, yet his character reveals a profound dread of death. His decision to abandon the Demon Slayer Corps and embrace demonhood stemmed from an all-consuming desire to escape the mortality that haunted him due to the implications of the Demon Slayer mark.
The only one I fear… is him (Yoriichi) – Kokushibo
In pursuit of immortality, Kokushibo devoted himself to the relentless honing of his skills and blood demon arts. Nevertheless, he discovered that his newfound existence did not fill the void within him. His insecurity, deeply rooted in his resentment towards Yoriichi’s abilities, continued to plague him.
Kokushibo remained overshadowed by his twin’s brilliance, a fact that fueled his animosity. ChoMuza’s attempt to confront Yoriichi only highlighted his prowess when he narrowly evaded defeat. Kokushibo realized that, if Muzan could not conquer Yoriichi, his own chances were practically nonexistent.
The Intricate Bond between Yoriichi and Kokushibo
Kokushibo’s fears encompassed not only death but also the specter of failure, significantly influencing his choice to forsake humanity. While his association with death faded following his transformation—evidenced by his ability to regenerate from decapitation—his fear of failing his aspirations persisted. The final encounter with Yoriichi was telling; despite his age, the latter’s prowess was undeniable, swiftly defeating Kokushibo with a grievous blow to the neck.
This confrontation encapsulated Kokushibo’s poignant realization: even in his transformed state, he couldn’t overcome his brother. With Yoriichi’s demise from old age just moments after their duel, Kokushibo experienced one of the most profound defeats imaginable.
Someday, the children now being born will surpass us and ascend to even greater heights – Yoriichi
Thus, even after relinquishing his humanity driven by ambition, Kokushibo ultimately failed to surpass Yoriichi, who left behind a legacy inspiring future generations within the Demon Slayer Corps. Despite being less frequently mentioned in both the anime and manga, Yoriichi is enshrined as one of the most iconic figures within the Demon Slayer universe.
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