Unveiling Enmu's Feelings: Is There Love for Muzan Kibutsuji in Demon Slayer?

Enmu was first introduced in the latter part of season 1 of Demon Slayer, and later took center stage in the Mugen Train movie. Despite his limited screen time, Enmu's interactions with Muzan Kibutsuji have captured the curiosity of fans, leading to speculation about their relationship.

Although Enmu's emotions are never explicitly labeled as "love," his conversations suggest a unique combination of admiration and adoration, which borders on a twisted form of loyalty. Enmu, the sole survivor among the lower moon demons, met his end in the Mugen Train movie.

Demon Slayer: Enmu's extreme infatuation with Muzan

Enmu in the anime can be seen in the provided image from Ufotable.

Muzan Kibutsuji is infamous for his merciless treatment of lower moon demons, with a reputation for punishing and eliminating those he considers weak. The only exception to this is Rui, who receives a certain level of favoritism. However, Enmu seems to be another exception in Muzan's harsh hierarchy.

Enmu's debut in Demon Slayer is defined by a harrowing meeting with Muzan. Originally meant to be fully consumed, Enmu's destiny changes when he admires and envies Muzan as he is being devoured.

This unusual exchange result in Enmu becoming a demon, propelling him to rise through the ranks and secure a prominent position among Muzan's followers. Eventually, he attains the rank of one of the Lower Moons of the Twelve Kizuki.

Muzan depicted in the anime series (Image via Ufotable)

In episode 26 of Demon Slayer season 1, Muzan, taking on a female form, systematically eliminates all the Lower Moons with the exception of Enmu. This selective act of mercy suggests a unique connection between Muzan and Enmu, one that transcends the typical master-subordinate dynamic within the demon hierarchy.

The true nature of Enmu's emotions becomes even more unclear when faced with death. Unlike his fellow Lower Moons, Enmu does not show fear or desperation. Instead, he displays a blushing delight at the prospect of being killed by Muzan, viewing it as the ultimate honor as a demon. Muzan then bestows more of his blood upon Enmu, commanding him to eliminate Tanjiro in order to obtain even more blood.

Lower moons (Image via Ufotable)

As the Mugen Train Arc comes to an end, Enmu's final moments reveal his longing for more of Muzan's blood, hoping for a showdown with an Upper Moon. Despite his formidable powers, Enmu expresses deep regret at his inability to defeat anyone, presenting the image of a demon trapped in a nightmarish existence.

While Enmu's feelings for Muzan are undeniably passionate, it's important to clarify that the series has not officially labeled these feelings as "love." Instead, Enmu's emotions toward Muzan could be seen as a twisted and extreme form of devotion or infatuation, adding another layer of complexity to Demon Slayer's intricate storyline.

Final thoughts

Demon Slayer: Enmu (Image via Ufotable)

Enmu's feelings towards Muzan are the most intense among the Twelve Kizuki, but calling it love would be inaccurate. Upon closer inspection, it appears to be more of an infatuation or a twisted form of devotion.

The Swordsmith Village arc has been adapted in Demon Slayer Season 3, now streaming on Netflix and Crunchyroll. With the gaps between seasons 1, 2, and 3, it's possible that season 4 could be released in late 2024.

Editor's P/S

Enmu's feelings for Muzan Kibutsuji in Demon Slayer are complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, Enmu clearly admires and respects Muzan's power and authority. He is also grateful to Muzan for sparing his life and making him a demon. On the other hand, Enmu's feelings for Muzan are also tinged with fear and resentment. He knows that Muzan is a ruthless and unpredictable master, and he is constantly worried about being punished or killed.

Ultimately, Enmu's feelings for Muzan are a reflection of his own deep-seated insecurities and self-loathing. He believes that he is weak and worthless, and that he can only find meaning and purpose in life by serving someone stronger than himself. Muzan represents everything that Enmu wants to be: powerful, feared, and respected. As a result, Enmu is drawn to Muzan like a moth to a flame, even though he knows that it will ultimately lead to his destruction.