Explaining Yoru’s Kiss to Denji: The War Devil’s Actions in Chainsaw Man

The recent chapters of the Chainsaw Man manga have featured some of the most unpredictable and shocking moments in contemporary shonen series. A particularly shocking event was the intimate interaction between War Devil Yoru and Denji in chapters 167 and 168.

During this critical moment, Denji and Yoru shared several passionate kisses, initiated by Yoru. This isn’t their first kiss, as they had previously shared a kiss in chapter 119. Consequently, many fans have been asking, “Why did the War Devil kiss Denji in Chainsaw Man?” concerning these significant moments.

Yoru’s Purpose for Kissing Denji Explained

In both instances, Yoru’s kisses were aimed at advancing her objectives in battling Chainsaw Man, either by attempting to convert him into a weapon or to inspire him to fight. As confirmed by Yoru in chapter 168, she does not possess any affection or love for Denji, even though Asa Mitaka does. This highlights Yoru’s tendency to utilize others to accomplish her goals by any means necessary.

The first kiss in chapter 119 occurred while Denji was out on a date with Asa Mitaka, which eventually led them back to his and Control Devil Nayuta’s residence. The purpose of this date was to make Denji fall for Asa, thus transforming him into a weapon that Yoru could employ in her battle, not realizing that Denji was the hero all along.

The second kiss begins in chapter 167, where Yoru employs threats directed at Denji to compel him to fight her. This occurs after she discovers Denji’s identity as Chainsaw Man during her rescue from the Tokyo Devil Detention Center. As she continues her threats, the two engage in a scuffle, which is not a formal fight but indicates their conflict.

This scuffle triggers a brief flashback in Yoru to her first kiss with Denji. Although this memory had been repressed by Control Devil Nayuta right after it happened, it resurfaces during their intense moment. Yoru acknowledges that they’ve kissed before, giving Denji a quick peck followed by another kiss. In the aftermath, she claims that the kiss was simply enjoyable.

However, it’s evident that Yoru’s intention behind the kiss was likely to motivate Denji to fight. This is further supported by her directive to Denji as she departs, urging him to perk up and prepare for a fight. Her initial invitation to ally with Denji also aligns with her goal of spurring him into action.

Yoru and Denji’s Relationship in Chainsaw Man

War Devil Yoru and Denji aren't particularly close in Chainsaw Man (Image via Shueisha) — War Devil Yoru and Denji aren’t particularly close in Chainsaw Man (Image via Shueisha)

As observed, Yoru makes it clear to Denji in chapter 168 that she does not harbor any feelings for him and that she simply absorbed Asa’s emotions. This is confirmed by her actions once Denji transforms into Pochita’s Hero of Hell form, where she resumes fighting him without hesitation.

This perspective also aligns with Yoru’s previous views and plans regarding Denji, for whom she has always regarded solely as a tool to fulfill her and Asa’s objectives. Their interactions outside of these pivotal moments are minimal, reinforcing that the answer to “Why did the War Devil kiss Denji?” is definitively not romantic.

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