Demon Slayer features numerous antagonists, with Muzan as the central focus. The Twelve Kizuki are often the most intriguing foes, such as Kokushibo, Doma, and Akaza, who have garnered significant popularity. In contrast, characters like Nakime are often overlooked despite their unique abilities.
Many viewers underestimate Nakime's significance in Demon Slayer, as she is often shown playing music while the Twelve Kizuki meet with Muzan in the anime. However, manga readers recognize her as a formidable individual who plays a crucial role in Muzan's success, particularly in the Infinity Castle.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the Demon Slayer series.
Explaining the powers of Nakime in Demon Slayer
Nakime may have gone unnoticed by many anime-only viewers of Demon Slayer, appearing in the meetings between Muzan and the Twelve Kizuki without much attention. However, her seemingly limited role in the anime belies the significance of her powers and abilities.
Her musical instrument allows her to manipulate the Infinity Castle, the central base for Muzan and his demons. She adeptly changes the castle's form and movement, making it difficult to locate. It also serves as a means of transportation.
In addition, Muzan appointed her as the Fourth Upper Moon after the elimination of Hantengu during the Swordsmith Village arc. She proved her strength during the events of the Infinity Castle arc by holding her own against Obanai and Mitsuri, both Hashira. While her power may not match the first three Upper Moons, her considerable strength is undeniable.
The story of Nakime in Demon Slayer
Nakime in the anime (Image via Ufotable).
Before becoming a demon, Nakime was a skilled biwa player and often wore a special kimono during her performances, as was the custom at the time. However, her husband gambled away the kimono, leading to Nakime's intense anger and ultimately her killing him. As a result, she had to perform in dirty clothes that night, which the public did not approve of. Despite her stage fright and the shock of her actions, her performance was a success, leading Nakime to decide to kill a person before every performance, ultimately leading her to encounter Muzan.
Final thoughts
Her attempt to kill Muzan ended in failure, but he was intrigued by her and offered Nakime the opportunity to become a demon. She embraced the chance and became one of his most devoted followers, as evidenced by her complete control over the Infinity Castle.
Nakime possesses the ability to manipulate the Infinity Castle, earning her the title of the fourth Upper Moon in the final arc of the Demon Slayer series. Although not as formidable as Akaza or Kokushibo, she demonstrated her strength by holding her own against two Hashira, showcasing her considerable power.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I find Nakime to be a compelling and underrated character in Demon Slayer. Her unique abilities and intriguing backstory set her apart from the more popular antagonists in the series. While her role in the anime may seem limited, manga readers understand her significance and the crucial part she plays in Muzan's plans.
Nakime's power to manipulate the Infinity Castle is fascinating and adds an extra layer of complexity to the battles that take place within it. Her ability to change the castle's form and movement makes it a challenging environment for the Demon Slayer Corps to navigate, and it also serves as a means of transportation for Muzan and his demons. This aspect of her character adds a sense of unpredictability and danger to the already intense battles in Demon Slayer.