In the gripping narrative of ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,’ the Infinity Castle Arc stands out as a pivotal moment, showcasing intense battles and unveiling the true strength of the demons. At the forefront of these encounters is Kokushibo, the Upper One among the Twelve Kizuki, and his formidable clash with the Demon Slayers. This article delves into the intricate details of Kokushibo’s fight at the Infinity Castle, exploring the events that unfolded and ultimately led to his demise.
The Encounter with Kaigaku
Kokushibo’s journey at the Infinity Castle begins with a recollection of his encounter with Kaigaku, a former comrade who faced Zenitsu Agatsuma. Despite initially overwhelming Kaigaku, Kokushibo offers him a chance for enhanced power through Muzan’s blood. This gesture, laden with threats, sets the tone for Kokushibo’s character—calculating, powerful, and ruthless.
Solitude and Reflection
Following the death of Akaza, Kokushibo finds himself alone in his lair. Murmuring about Akaza’s perceived weaknesses and failed threats, Kokushibo’s discontent and anger manifest as he effortlessly slices a surrounding pillar in a single stroke. This moment offers a glimpse into Kokushibo’s disdain for perceived inadequacies and foreshadows the impending battles.
Muichiro Tokito & Genya’s Confrontation:
Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, is transported to Kokushibo’s presence, sparking an intriguing confrontation. Kokushibo, recognizing a familial connection, deduces Muichiro’s lineage and acknowledges the potency of the bloodline he left behind. The ensuing battle highlights Muichiro’s exceptional skills, but Kokushibo’s prowess prevails, culminating in the loss of Muichiro’s arm and a tempting offer to become a demon faithful to Muzan.
The narrative takes an unexpected turn as Genya Shinazugawa enters the scene, firing at Kokushibo with his shotgun. Kokushibo’s swift evasion and subsequent brutal dismemberment of Genya underscore the demon’s merciless nature. The encounter sets the stage for a broader conflict involving the Wind Hashira, Sanemi Shinazugawa, and the Stone Hashira, Gyomei Himejima.
Sanemi vs Kokushibo
Sanemi and Kokushibo engage in a fierce duel, with the demon acknowledging the Wind Hashira’s skill. The battle unfolds, revealing Kokushibo’s experience from the Sengoku era and his ability to inflict significant wounds on Sanemi. The unexpected twist occurs when Sanemi’s blood manipulations disrupt Kokushibo’s composure, leading to a disoriented and defensive stance.
Gyomei vs Kokushibo
Gyomei Himejima, the Stone Hashira, enters the fray, adding a new dynamic to the battle. The clash between Gyomei and Kokushibo intensifies, with both revealing their Demon Slayer Marks. Kokushibo, however, discloses a dark truth about the marks—predicting Gyomei’s premature death due to the marking.
Amidst an existential dialogue about humanity and demonhood, Kokushibo offers Gyomei a chance to become a demon, questioning the Hashira’s commitment to a fleeting human existence. Gyomei staunchly rejects the offer, leading to a head-on confrontation that rattles Kokushibo’s composure.
Transformation and Continued Battle
Kokushibo’s desperation to avoid defeat prompts a gruesome transformation. Sprouting multiple blades from his body, he inflicts severe injuries on Muichiro, Genya, Sanemi, and Gyomei. The tide seems to turn in Kokushibo’s favor until unexpected developments arise, leading to the Demon Slayers gaining the upper hand.
Who Killed Kokushibo?
In Demon Slayer, Kokushibo is killed by Sanemi, Gyomei, and Muichiro. Sanemi and Gyomei decapitate Kokushibo, but he regenerates his head. Muichiro then uses his burning red blade to wound Kokushibo, causing his body to disintegrate
As Kokushibo’s body withers away, he reflects on his human life as Michikatsu Tsugikuni, the twin brother of Yoriichi. After centuries as a demon, he regrets his past decisions and allows the demon slayers to finish him off. Kokushibo dies full of regret and hatred after a life of being second-best.
The culmination of Kokushibo’s battle at the Infinity Castle paints a vivid picture of his character—proud, relentless, yet ultimately tormented by his choices. The unexpected twist in his demise, marked by his monstrous transformation and reflections on his past, adds layers to the complexity of his character. ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba’ leaves audiences captivated by the enigmatic journey and dramatic fall of Kokushibo, a character whose legacy is etched in the annals of this enthralling saga.