In the Demon Slayer series, the Twelve Kizuki hold a critical position, yet the Lower Rank demons receive notably less attention, with the exceptions of Rui and Enmu. One such demon, Mukago—designated as Lower Rank Four—had only a fleeting appearance before her fate was sealed by Muzan.
Disclaimer: This article includes significant spoilers from the Demon Slayer anime and manga.
Examining Mukago’s Demise at the Hands of Muzan in Demon Slayer
Mukago emerges during the Rehabilitation Training arc in episode 26 of the anime, corresponding to chapter 51 in the manga. She is summoned alongside the other Lower Rank demons following Rui’s defeat at the hands of Tanjiro during the Mt. Natagumo arc, setting the stage for her brief yet significant appearance.
When Muzan presented himself in a deceptive female form, a confused Mukago attempted to express apologies for her peers’ shortcomings. However, she was swiftly silenced by Muzan, who wasted no time in addressing the fatal news of Rui’s passing. He questioned the apparent weakness of the Lower Moon demons, despite their affiliation with the esteemed Twelve Kizuki.
As the demons gathered, Muzan utilized his ability to invade their thoughts, a unique power stemming from the shared blood he granted them. His disinterest in most of the Lower Rank demons became evident, as his primary concern seemed to center around Rui, igniting his fury upon learning of the latter’s death.
After eliminating Kamanue, Muzan redirected his attention to the remaining demons. When questioned about whether she feared the Hashira or Muzan more, Mukago insisted that she would devote everything to Muzan. However, his mind-reading ability revealed that she harbored an instinct to flee from a Hashira, leading him to correct her assertion and label her a coward.
Muzan, revealing no appreciation for Mukago’s supposed loyalty, chose to eliminate her as punishment for her instinctive fear. As he positioned his monstrous arm over her, Mukago witnessed the fatal moment as Muzan crushed her, culminating in her demise.
Muzan’s contempt for the Lower Rank demons culminated in his decision to eradicate them all, Mukago included. His frustration escalated when he discerned her cowardice—a paradox for one affiliated with the Twelve Kizuki—which sealed her fate.
Conclusion
In stark contrast to characters like Rui and Enmu, Mukago’s role in the storyline lacked depth and significance, rendering her presence largely inconsequential. The Lower Rank demons were typically portrayed as mere plot devices, faced with elimination shortly after their introduction, as exemplified by Mukago, the Lower Rank Four.
While the Lower Rank demons made little impact, the narrative focus shifted to the Upper Rank demons and Muzan, who were poised to challenge the Hashira and the Demon Slayer Corps. This tension set the stage for the climactic battles as they were transported into Nakime’s domain, marking the onset of the gripping Infinity Castle arc.
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