Aoi's Exclusion from The Demon Slayer Corps, Examined

Aoi Kanzaki is a fascinating character in Demon Slayer who successfully completed the rigorous Final Selection test for potential slayers, and specializes in the 'water-breathing' technique. She is closely connected to the Insect Hashira, Shinobu Kocho, and serves as a supportive presence for the protagonists following their intense battles.

Despite her abilities, Aoi is not officially recognized as one of the slayers. Fans may question this, as she appears fully capable of being a formidable fighter in other circumstances. However, Aoi's choice, or lack thereof, is intentional. In the anime, she openly admits that she cannot bring herself to engage in battle.

Aoi’s reluctance to become a Demon Slayer

Aoi finds Zenitsu especially obnoxious. (Image via Ufotable)

After the Final Selection test on Mount Fujikasane, Aoi is introduced when she takes Tanjiro and the other survivors to the Butterfly Mansion. She informs them about their training to become full-fledged Demon Slayers. Aoi has a positive opinion of Tanjiro, but finds Zenitsu's behavior towards girls and Inosuke's laziness annoying. She only opens up to Tanjiro, confessing that she cannot fight and feels like she can't be as helpful as the others. Her reluctance to become a Demon Slayer is due to her lack of belief in her own strength.

Aoi feels inadequate compared to others in the Corps

Nevertheless, Tanjiro reassures her that she was instrumental to him, and he will carry her sentiments into battle in return, much to her astonishment. This moment establishes their characters and further explores Aoi's perspective on her role. Even after the events on the Mugen Train, she continues to be helpful by aiding the returning slayers in their recovery.

Aoi becomes entangled in Tengen's deception. (Image via Ufotable)

Subsequently, she becomes embroiled in the plans of Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of his operatives in an entertainment district. Initially viewed as a potential spy due to her status as a Demon Slayer, Aoi is eventually rescued by Tanjiro and his companions. Tengen's lack of concern for her further emphasizes the disregard for her capabilities, adding significance to their previous conversation.

Aoi may be seen as avoiding combat, but her assistance to the main demon slayer trio in training and recovery shows her unique way of helping. She doubts her own abilities after surviving the Final Selection, which makes her hesitant to join the constant battle against Muzan's army. Many readers would likely feel the same in the world of Demon Slayer, driven by vengeance or not.

While Aoi may not hold the title of a slayer, she plays a crucial role within the Demon Slayer Corps by supporting the headquarters and aiding the weary slayers in their recovery from intense night missions, despite not possessing the strength to battle demons herself.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about Aoi Kanzaki's exclusion from the Demon Slayer Corps. On the one hand, I understand her reasons for not wanting to fight. She saw firsthand the horrors of the Final Selection test, and she knows that being a Demon Slayer is a dangerous job. She also doubts her own abilities, and she doesn't think she's strong enough to be a Slayer.

On the other hand, I think it's a shame that Aoi isn't able to use her skills to help fight demons. She's clearly a capable fighter, and she could be a valuable asset to the Corps. I also think it's unfair that she's not recognized as a full-fledged Slayer, even though she passed the Final Selection test.

Overall, I think Aoi's exclusion from the Demon Slayer Corps is a complex issue. There are valid reasons for both sides of the argument. Ultimately, I think it's up to Aoi to decide whether or not she wants to become a Slayer. If she does decide to join the Corps, I know she'll be a valuable asset.