Ryūko's mother is initially believed to have died shortly after her birth, and her relationship with her father, Isshin Matoi, was distant and strained. During her early childhood, Ryūko lived in the dorms of Ox Elementary School while her father devoted himself entirely to his research. Lacking parental guidance and subjected to bullying, she developed a rebellious nature, often engaging in fights and even joining a gang.
==Appearance==
Six months prior to enrolling at Honnōji Academy, Ryūko received a message from her father and returned home, only to find him fatally wounded with a red Scissor Blade impaled in his chest. In his final moments, Isshin urged her to choose her path: to walk away and live peacefully or to take up the blade and fight in his stead. He assured her that the blade would lead her to his killer. Before Isshin could reveal more, Ryūko caught a glimpse of a shadowy woman wielding the other half of the Scissor Blade. She pursued the mysterious figure but failed to apprehend her. Moments later, an explosive device ignited, engulfing the house in flames.
Ryūko is a seventeen-year-old girl of medium height and mid-length dark-blue tinted hair with a single left-swept red highlight on her bangs. Her blue eyes have peculiar gear-like pupils with eight grooves around the edges. Her outfit at the start of the series is a simple white shirt with a red ribbon tie, a black miniskirt, white sneakers, and a black & white jacket with rolled-up sleeves. During her childhood, she wore a red collared shirt with a white skirt and white shoes.
Her clothing is later replaced by Senketsu, a living navy blue sailor uniform. Her shirt (Senketsu's upper jaw) is a crop top with mid-length sleeves that bares her midriff. Her sailor-style collar with red stripes is tied by a multicolored scarf that also serves as Senketsu's left "eye." Senketsu's right eye is covered by a black "eyepatch" with an X-shaped scratch over it (perhaps emulating her father's right eyepatch). Her skirt (Senketsu's lower jaw) is held up by suspenders attached to a belt. Aikurō Mikisugi later provides her with a Nihongo ("Red Gauntlet"), a red, finger-less, left-handed glove with a built-in syringe designed for Ryūko to conveniently draw blood and feed it to Senketsu.
Ryūko could only watch in anguish as the fire consumed her father. Fueled by a vow of vengeance, she began a journey as a wandering vagrant, relentlessly seeking answers about the killer’s identity and whereabouts.
Ryūko's appearance changes further when using Life Fiber Synchronize with Senketsu. Her hair becomes even more feathery and is accented with vibrant red undertones and horn-like clips. Senketsu himself also undergoes a significant change in appearance after Synchronization; his "eyes" extend into wing-shaped crests jutting out from Ryūko's shoulders and his upper and lower parts transform into a black, skimpy suit of armor with red stripes. The top section of the armor covers Ryūko's neck, lower-jaw, arms, and upper breasts, and possesses a red, triangular ventilation grill centered on Ryūko's upper back. The top armor piece is connected to her skirt by three red garter belt/suspenders (two in front, one in back), leaving everything between the underside of her breasts and her waist exposed. Her legs are also covered with thigh-height, high-heeled boots.
'''Episode 1'''<br>
Ryūko arrives at Honnō City in search of her father’s murderer and enrolls as a transfer student at the academy. Shortly after arriving, she meets Mako Mankanshoku, who becomes her classmate. Mako explains that the academy is controlled by the Student Council, led by its president, Satsuki Kiryūin. Suspecting Satsuki knows something about her father’s death, Ryūko confronts her and reveals the red Scissor Blade. Satsuki’s reaction convinces Ryūko she’s on the right track, but before she can press further, she’s challenged by Takaharu Fukuroda, a council member who overpowers her using his Two-Star Goku Uniform.
When Ryūko wears Senketsu Kisaragi, Senketsu's eyepatch is broken, revealing his hidden eye, his color scheme changes to reddish-orange and yellow, the headpiece becomes more elaborate like a rabbit's ears, yellow energy bands form a skirt that looks like jaws around Ryūko's waist and her hair becomes blonde.
Defeated and forced to flee, Ryūko retreats to her old home on the outskirts of the city. Frustrated by her inability to win, she’s unexpectedly dropped into a hidden basement by her homeroom teacher, Aikurō Mikisugi, who had secretly followed her. In the basement, Ryūko’s blood seeps into a mysterious pile of clothes, awakening a sentient sailor uniform created by her father. The uniform, which Ryūko names Senketsu, forcibly bonds with her, granting her incredible strength in exchange for her blood.
== Personality==
With Senketsu’s power, Ryūko returns to the academy and challenges Takaharu again. This time, she destroys his Goku Uniform with her Scissor Blade, rendering him powerless. Ryūko declares her outfit and weapon as mementos from her father and demands Satsuki reveal what she knows. Exhausted from the fight, Ryūko is forced to retreat before she can get any answers.
Ryūko has a relatively simple personality: fierce and stubborn. She fears little, which is demonstrated when she directly and disrespectfully addresses Satsuki Kiryūin, demanding that her questions be answered, and when she fights Takaharu Fukuroda even though she is clearly overpowered. Later on, she is shown to be quite embarrassed when she is forced to fight in Senketsu's very revealing alternate form, though she overcomes her embarrassment in Episode 3 showing that while she is not afraid of fighting to her death, she is somewhat self-conscious.
Even though most of the time she is seen stubborn and fierce, sometimes she can be shown calm, polite, content and warmly flattered. This is mostly seen when eating with the Mankanshoku family and Episode 7. She admires the way Mako's mother makes food and has kind manners. She later is seen telling Senketsu how fun dinner was with them because of how her mother died when she was young and her dad sent her to a boarding school, never knowing how a family dinner was like. Her flattery is highlighted in Episode 1 when Mataro tried to steal Ryuko's wallet and mug her. She was cool with the intention of fighting, criticizing how street punking doesn't work for him and how goofy his gang was. After defeating them, she lets it slide by not fighting people who can't fight back. This is also seen with most opponents she faces when she often states the obvious.
She shows fierce determination in finding her father's killer. Her stubbornness was taken up to ridiculous levels when she managed to free herself from Ragyō's mind control by merely punching herself. This same episode, however, has one of few demonstrations of shock on her part, when Ragyō defeats Satsuki, rips out Ryūko's heart and reveals herself to be her mother.
'''Episode 2'''<br>
After retreating from her fight, Ryūko collapsed upon stepping off the tram descending the mountain. She later woke up in the Mankanshoku household, where she reluctantly joined them for dinner, consisting of questionable food. During the evening, Ryūko reflected on her initial encounter with the sentient Kamui, which she had named Senketsu, meaning “Fresh Blood,” when they first bonded.
When Ryūko is brainwashed after being forced to put on Junketsu by Ragyō, her personality changes to be wild and sadistic, destroying everything around her without reason. After she is freed she goes back to her usual personality but is somewhat calmer and more mature. She also makes peace with Satsuki and can fight with her as a comrade, but is still having trouble recognizing her as her sister. Although, after Satsuki catches her when she is falling back to earth and welcomes her home warmly, Ryūko replies by calling her "sis."
The following day, Ryūko arrived at school with Mako and was invited to stay with the Mankanshoku family. However, both soon found themselves targeted by the tennis club, led by its newly promoted Two-Star Goku Uniform captain, Omiko. Despite attempting to fight back, Ryūko struggled when she failed to activate Senketsu's powers. She escaped the confrontation by falling into the sewers, clinging to her guitar case as she drifted away with the current.
==History==
Upon regaining consciousness, Ryūko discovered she was in the presence of her eccentric homeroom teacher, Aikurō Mikisugi, who revealed more about Senketsu. Ignoring her protests, he extracted some of her blood with a syringe and demonstrated that Senketsu required her blood to unleash its full power. While Ryūko demanded further answers, Mikisugi urged her to focus on defeating Omiko in a rematch and rescuing Mako.
Ryūko's mother is initially presumed to have died after she was born and her relationship with her father, Isshin Matoi, was strained and distant. Ryūko spent her early childhood living in the dorms of Ox Elementary School as her father focused solely on his studies. With a lack of guidance and being bullied by others, Ryūko became a juvenile delinquent, constantly getting into fights and even going so far as to join a gang. Six months before enrolling at Honnōji Academy she received a message from her father and returned to her home only to find him bleeding to death with a red Scissor Blade plunged into his chest. Isshin told her upfront that if she wanted to live a peaceful life, she should get up and walk away, but if she wanted to 'fight' in his place she should take the blade, for as long as she had it she would surely be able to find his killer. Before Isshin could provide Ryūko with further information she caught sight of a shadowy female figure out of the corner of her eye wielding the other half of the Scissor Blade. Ryūko dashed outside the house but was unable to apprehend the fleeing woman. Before she could get back in an explosive device of some kind detonated and lit the house ablaze. Ryuko watched in horror, screaming for her father, but to no avail. Vowing revenge Ryūko became a wandering vagrant looking for clues behind the killer's identity and whereabouts.
==Synopsis==
Ryūko returned just in time to save Mako, who was being bombarded by a relentless onslaught of tennis balls. The battle escalated into a bizarre tennis match against Omiko, orchestrated by Satsuki's subordinate, Uzu Sanageyama. Using her Scissor Blade as a makeshift tennis racket, Ryūko managed to overpower Omiko, blasting her away and destroying her Goku Uniform in the process.
===Episode 1===
Ryūko's search for her father's killer brings her to Honnō City, where she enrolls in its academy as a transfer student. On her way to the school she encounters Mako Mankanshoku, who she ends up sitting next to in class. Mako informs Ryūko of the Student Council that rules the academy under its president, Satsuki Kiryūin. She immediately confronts Satsuki, showing her the red Scissor Blade used to kill her father and is convinced by Satsuki's surprised reaction that she knows something about it. Ryūko is intercepted by council member Takaharu Fukuroda, who overwhelms her with the power of his Two-Star Goku Uniform.
Beaten and faced with the confiscation of her Scissor Blade, Ryūko flees to her old home near the city. As she laments her weakness, Ryūko is dropped down a trapdoor by her homeroom teacher Aikurō Mikisugi, who had followed her against her knowledge. She lands in a large basement atop a massive pile of clothes, the blood from her reopened wound seeping into it and awakening a Kamui—a living sailor uniform—created by her father. The Kamui springs to life and forcefully puts itself on her, craving more of her blood. Ryūko discovers that the uniform possesses immense power, and names it Senketsu.
Following her victory, Ryūko was unexpectedly forced to face Satsuki in combat. Satsuki's mastery of the blade nearly overwhelmed her, and Senketsu warned Ryūko of her impending collapse due to blood loss. Realizing the danger, Ryūko created a distraction with steam and escaped the battlefield with Mako.
Imbued with Senketsu's power, Ryūko returns to Honnōji Academy and battles Takaharu again in a boxing match, this time overcoming his Goku Uniform powers with Senketsu's indestructible armored form, and destroying his uniform with her Scissor Blade. She reveals to Satsuki that both her outfit and weapon are keepsakes from her father, and once more demands Satsuki to reveal what she knows. However, she is fatigued from her battle and retreats.
'''Episode 3'''<br>
Mako finds a note from Aikurō on her back, leading to a meeting where they discuss Life Fibers. Aikurō explains that Isshin Matoi and the Kiryūin clan possess exclusive knowledge of Life Fibers. Aikurō, formerly an assistant to Isshin, has been spying on Honnōji Academy to uncover more information. Surprisingly, they reveal that Isshin conceptualized the awakened form of the Kamui.
After staying overnight with the Mankanshokus, Ryūko accompanies Mako to school, only to encounter Satsuki. To ensure Mako's safety, Ryūko prepares to face Satsuki, who discloses her ownership of a Kamui named Junketsu, which she has mastered. Although Ryūko fights valiantly, she is overpowered by Satsuki, forcing Senketsu to return to a dormant state to prevent draining her blood. Inspired by Mako's passionate speech, Ryūko understands the significance of donning Senketsu and accepts the revealing form. This newfound acceptance enhances her synchronization with Senketsu, enabling her to engage in a more balanced battle with Satsuki.
As the fight concludes, Ryūko declares her intention to shatter Satsuki's ambitions and expose her role in Isshin Matoi's murder. Satsuki acknowledges the challenge, making Ryūko the target of every club in the school. Ryūko must triumph over each opposing student to secure a rematch with Satsuki. The revelation of Satsuki's involvement in Isshin Matoi's death rests on Ryūko's victory in their next encounter.
===Episode 2===
'''Episode 4'''<br>
Ryūko retreated and collapsed when she stepped off the tram heading down the tall mountain. When she awoke, she found herself in the house of the Mankanshoku family and reluctantly had dinner with them that consisted of questionable food. Ryūko reminisced how she first met the talking Kamui uniform and partnered with it after naming it Senketsu as in “Fresh Blood”.
Ryūko takes part in Honnōji Academy's yearly "No-Late Day" event, where students must navigate 999 obstacles and arrive at class on time to avoid expulsion. During the event, Ryūko and Mako come across Maiko Ogure, who claims to be injured. Out of kindness, they decide to help her. However, Maiko betrays them and steals Senketsu. Revealing herself as the Trap Department's Head of the Disciplinary Committee, Maiko aims to use Ryūko's Kamui to overthrow Satsuki and control the school.
Maiko tries attacking them but is hindered by Senketsu, allowing Ryūko to reclaim her Kamui. Following the confrontation, Ryūko and Mako discover they were deceived by Maiko's "fake school" trap. Fortunately, they manage to reach their classroom on time by hijacking a cable cart and crashing into the classroom.
Ryūko came to school along with Mako and is invited to stay with the Mankanshoku family. They both found themselves under fire by the tennis club and its newly two-star Goku Uniformed captain, Omiko. Ryūko tried to fight back but found herself in trouble when she failed to awaken Senketsu. She escapes by falling into the sewers and by clinging onto her guitar case as she drifted along with the current.
'''Episode 5'''<br>
The episode introduces a mysterious man with a red mohawk, who takes aim at Ryūko with a rifle-like weapon. However, his plan is disrupted by the gardening club members, who confront him for destroying their flowers. The scene then shifts to Ryūko facing off against the biology club members, who have captured Mako for an experiment. Ryūko successfully defeats them and scolds Mako for her carelessness. Suddenly, Mako is shot with numerous needles by Tsumugu Kinagase, causing Ryūko to panic. Tsumugu reveals that Mako is only unconscious and will recover with renewed energy.
Tsumugu then attacks Ryūko, preventing her from transforming and warning her of their impending fight. The next day, they engage in battle, and despite transforming, Ryūko is overpowered and reverts to her normal form due to exhaustion. Tsumugu urges Ryūko to hand over the Kamui, explaining that it is a deadly parasite. Ryūko refuses and is nearly killed, but Senketsu telepathically threatens Tsumugu, protecting Ryūko and leaving Tsumugu surprised.
Nonon Jakuzure attempts to capture Tsumugu, but he escapes with Ryūko, taking her to Aikurō's house. Ryūko expresses her gratitude to Senketsu for saving her and considers him a friend.
Ryūko awoke to find herself in the presence of her homeroom teacher, who does not seem to be what he appeared. He extracted some of her blood with a needle, despite her excessive refusal, and showed her that Senketsu needed to be in contact with her blood to be fully utilized. Ryūko wanted answers from him but she first had to fight Omiko in a rematch and again rescue Mako.
'''Episode 6'''<br>
Ryūko confronts Aikurō, demanding to know the connection between him and Tsumugu Kinagase, the man who attacked her. Initially denying any involvement, Aikurō eventually reveals that Tsumugu is a member of Nudist Beach and was sent to test Ryūko's abilities. Unconvinced by his explanation, Ryūko storms off.
At Honnōji Academy's club research laboratory, a massive shipment of Life Fibers arrives, and sewing club president Shirō Iori begins mass-producing Goku uniforms. Athletics club president Uzu Sanageyama requests permission from Satsuki Kiryūin to battle Ryūko. Despite the potential consequences of failure, Uzu assures Satsuki of his superior eyesight.
Ryūko receives a challenge from Uzu for a duel. During the fight, Uzu utilizes his Blade Regalia armor and Higi Tengantsu technique to briefly overpower Ryūko. However, she manages to blind Uzu's visor with a torn piece of Senketsu's cloth, buying time to deliver a decisive blow, resulting in his defeat. Refusing to accept his loss, Uzu asks for a rematch, only to be punished by Ira Gamagōri for his disgraceful performance.
Uzu then meets with Ira Shiori, the sewing club president, and requests to have his eyes sewn shut as penance for relying too heavily on his vision. His dedication impresses Satsuki, and Uzu faces Ryūko once again, seeking vengeance for his current state. Using Shingantsu, an upgraded version of Tengantsu, Uzu relentlessly attacks Ryūko, nearly killing her, but his Goku uniform fails to keep up with his power surge, tearing apart and allowing Ryūko to escape.
Ryūko acknowledges the formidable strength of the Elite Four, recognizing they are not to be underestimated.
After Ryūko saved Mako, who was being barraged by countless tennis balls, Ryūko somehow found herself fighting against Omiko in a tennis match, all due to some twisted logic of Satsuki’s minions, Uzu Sanageyama. She was able to win by using her scissor blade as a tennis racket, and with a sheer force, she blasted Omiko away, along with stripping Omiko of her Goku Uniform in the process. Afterward, Ryūko was forced to fight Satsuki and was nearly dominated by her skill with the blade. Ryūko was alerted by Senketsu that she was about to pass out due to blood loss, so she escapes along with Mako in an improvised cover of steam.
'''Episode 7'''<br>
Ryūko faces an attack from three former acrobatic club members who have formed their own club to defeat her and raise their star uniform ranking. Mako informs Ryūko that students can rise to two-star status by becoming club presidents and earn a Three Star Goku uniform if they manage to defeat her. Realizing this, Ryūko decides to start her own club to improve her living conditions.
However, overwhelmed by the paperwork, Ryūko appoints Mako as the club president instead. As the club gains prominence, the Mankanshoku family's social status and wealth increase dramatically. Unfortunately, they become consumed by their newfound materialistic desires, deeply upsetting Ryūko.
Feeling betrayed, Ryūko resigns from the Fight Club. Satsuki takes advantage of the rift, offering Mako a Two-Star Goku uniform and challenging her to defeat Ryūko to maintain her newfound social standing. Mako reluctantly agrees, shocking Ryūko.
During their battle, Ryūko initially defends herself but eventually refuses to fight, enduring a brutal beating from Mako until her friend regains her senses. Realizing the mistake she has made, Mako disbands the Fight Club, and the entire Mankanshoku family apologizes to Ryūko for their behavior. Ryūko accepts their apology but warns them not to betray her again.
===Episode 3===
'''Episode 8'''<br>
While meeting with Mako, she discovered a note that was pinned to Mako’s back, it was from Aikurō and it stated where they can meet. Aikurō told her about a term called Life Fibers, and how Isshin Matoi and the Kiryūin clan were the only two that knew of its full capability. She learned that Aikurō used to work as an assistant for Isshin and had infiltrated Honnōji Academy to learn more. She also learned that the Kamui’s awakened form was apparently the idea of Isshin, her father.
In this episode, Ryūko decides to share the truth about her past with Mako, taking her to the ruins of her old family home. As they explore the remains, Ryūko begins to reveal the circumstances surrounding her father's tragic death, a series of events that have driven her on her relentless quest for justice and understanding.
Growing up, Ryūko's relationship with her father was complicated and distant, as he chose to send her away to a prestigious boarding school, leaving him to pursue his intense research at their family mansion. This separation inevitably led to Ryūko developing a rebellious streak and becoming somewhat of a delinquent as she grew older. Despite their estrangement, Ryūko never forgot about her father or the love they shared.
One day, Ryūko received an unexpected note from her father, requesting a meeting to discuss some urgent matters. Without hesitation, she rushed to the mansion, only to be confronted with a horrifying sight: her father had been impaled by one half of the mysterious Scissor Blade. With his dying breath, he warned Ryūko of the immense dangers surrounding this weapon and urged her to make a choice. If she desired a peaceful life, she could simply walk away and leave her father's research behind. However, if she wanted to seek justice and continue his work, she must take up the Scissor Blade and use it to hunt down the culprit who wielded the other half of the weapon. Her father revealed that this elusive figure would be the one responsible for his tragic demise.
Overwhelmed with shock and determination, Ryūko noticed a shadowy figure attempting to flee the mansion. Consumed by the need to confront her father's killer, she rushed after them, leaving her father behind, crying out for her to return. As she desperately pursued the figure, the mansion exploded, leaving no trace of the secrets hidden within its walls, nor any hope of reconciliation with her father.
This pivotal event became the catalyst for Ryūko's unwavering resolve to uncover the truth surrounding her father's death and ensure that his life's work was not in vain. Although her bond with her father may have been strained, his final words deeply impacted Ryūko and inspired her to delve deeper into the world of the Scissor Blade and Life Fibers.
Returning to the present, Ryūko and Mako continue their search for any remaining clues in the mansion's basement, where Ryūko first discovered Senketsu. Disappointed to find nothing of note, they decide to head back home but soon find their journey halted when their scooter runs out of gas. Their luck changes when they cross paths with Ira Gamagōri, the formidable chair of Honnōji Academy's Disciplinary Committee and a member of the elite Four. Taking a week off from his duties, Gamagōri kindly offers the girls a ride home.
During their journey, the trio encounters the aggressive Automotive Airsoft Club, led by the fearsome Ryōsuke Todoroki. With their sights set on Gamagōri's prized Three-Star Goku Uniform Shackle Regalia, the club launches a vicious assault. Refusing to be intimidated, Gamagōri expertly defends the girls and swiftly dispatches the attackers, showcasing his incredible strength and combat prowess.
After spending another night at the Mankanshoku’s house, Ryūko went to school with Mako and found Satsuki waiting for her. Ryūko asked Mako to step aside for safety and readied herself to fight Satsuki, who revealed that she had her own Kamui, Junketsu, and had already mastered it. Ryūko fights Satsuki, but she is overwhelmed by her. To keep Ryūko from nearly losing consciousness, Senketsu reverted back to his dormant state to stop feasting on her blood. Before the victor was decided, Mako intervened and her speech made Ryūko finally understand the true meaning of wearing Senketsu. She finally accepted the revealing form, and now had better synchronization with Senketsu. With strength anew, Ryūko was able to fight Satsuki on the near-equal ground.
'''Episode 9'''<br>
As the looming confrontation with Ira Gamagōri draws ever closer, Ryūko finds herself at a crossroads. Aikurō Mikisugi, ever the cautious ally, pleads with her to withdraw from the match. His warning is dire: she's simply not ready to face off against the raw might of the Elite Four. But Ryūko, undaunted and resolute, refuses to back down. The battle, it seems, is inevitable.<br>
And so, the clash begins. Gamagōri unleashes the devastating power of his Shackle Regalia, launching an onslaught of brutal attacks against himself. With each strike, the energy fuels a fearsome transformation, giving rise to the terrifying Scourge Regalia. The realization hits hard: the Shackle Regalia is more than just a weapon - it's an armor that shields its life fibers from harm. This leaves Ryūko at a severe disadvantage - if she hopes to damage the Shackle Regalia, she must also contend with the ever-strengthening Scourge Regalia.<br>
Despite the overwhelming odds, Ryūko remains undeterred. She presses on, launching a barrage of fierce attacks that push Gamagōri to unleash the full might of the Scourge Regalia. His goal is clear: to mold Ryūko into a subservient model student, stripped of her rebellious spirit and fierce independence.<br>
But Ryūko has an ace up her sleeve. In a daring gambit, Senketsu severs their synchronization, allowing Ryūko to tap into Senketsu's fangs. With surgical precision, she slices through Gamagōri's uniform, carving a path to its vulnerable core. The final blow comes in the form of a devastating new ability - Senketsu Senjin. With a single, decisive strike, she obliterates the uniform from within, claiming victory in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.<br>
As the dust settles, the victor is clear. Ryūko has emerged triumphant, leaving Gamagōri defeated and humbled. But there's no time to rest on her laurels - another challenger awaits. Her next opponent is none other than Hōka Inumuta, and Ryūko must steel herself for yet another grueling battle in her quest for the truth.
When the fight came to an end, Ryūko declared to Satsuki that she will tear down her ambitions, utterly destroy them, and then will have Satsuki tell her about her involvement with her father's murder. Satsuki accepted her claim and announced that from then on, Ryūko will be made the target of every club. Only when she defeats every opposing student in the school, will they once again fight one another, and if Ryūko wins that fight, only then will Satsuki reveal her involvement in the death of Isshin Matoi.
'''Episode 10'''<br>
The Naturals Election finals rage on, as Ryūko faces off against Hōka Inumuta and his formidable Probe Regalia. Inumuta's uniform grants him the ability to analyze Ryūko's fighting abilities, predicting her every move with eerie accuracy. Undeterred, Ryūko pushes herself beyond her limits, attacking with such speed that Inumuta's sensors struggle to keep up.<br>
Realizing he needs a new strategy, Inumuta activates Optical Camouflage, rendering himself invisible. Ryūko finds herself battered by unseen strikes, teetering on the edge of the arena. In a brilliant counterattack, she expands Senketsu's eye, attacking the entire arena at once and leaving Inumuta with nowhere to hide.<br>
With Inumuta immobilized, Ryūko prepares to land the finishing blow. However, in a surprising twist, Inumuta forfeits the match. Explaining that his primary concern is data collection, not victory, he chooses to preserve his uniform, which has collected invaluable data on Senketsu, much to Ryūko's bewilderment.<br>
Next, Ryūko faces the daunting challenge of Nonon Jakuzure and her Symphony Regalia, a colossal war machine that assaults her with immense sonic vibrations and an arsenal of music-themed weaponry. To make matters worse, Nonon transforms her Symphony Regalia into a flying configuration, asserting that the rule against leaving the arena only applies to being knocked out, not flying.<br>
Undeterred, Ryūko ties a thread to her Scissor Blade and uses it to lasso the Symphony Regalia. Anchoring herself with Senketsu's skirt spikes, she begins tossing Nonon around, relying on Senketsu's Life Fiber-infused defenses to withstand the barrage of attacks. However, Nonon turns her attention to the arena itself, aiming to disqualify Ryūko by forcing her to fall.<br>
In a daring move, Ryūko orders Senketsu to reconfigure into the flight-capable Senketsu Shippu, allowing her to remain airborne and evade Nonon's relentless assault. Nonon, infuriated by Ryūko's persistence, resumes her attack, declaring the sky as her domain. As the battle rages on, both fighters push their limits in a desperate bid for victory.
===Episode 4===
'''Episode 11'''<br>
Ryūko has to participate in an annual school event called “No-Late Day”; where the students of Honnōji Academy have to go through 999 obstacles and get to class in time or risk getting expelled. During the event, she and Mako encounter a girl name Maiko Ogure, who supposedly was injured during one of the obstacle courses. They decide to take her along out of kindness; however, the girl betrays them near the end and steals Senketsu. Maiko reveals herself to be the Head of the Trap Department of the Disciplinary Committee, and she wanted Ryūko’s Kamui so she could usurp the control of the school from Satsuki. Maiko tries to attack them but her mobility is restricted by Senketsu and this allows Ryūko to beat her up and reclaim Senketsu. Afterward, Ryūko and Mako learn that they were tricked once again by Maiko’s “fake school” trap; they are able to make it to school on time by crashing into the classroom after commandeering a cable cart.
Ryūko's agile Senketsu Shippu gives her a significant advantage in the aerial battle against Nonon, allowing her to destroy the Symphony Regalia Presto. Grounded and vulnerable, Nonon endures a relentless assault from Ryūko, who unleashes her devastating finishing move. However, Ryūko's inability to absorb the Life Fibers in Nonon's uniform gives her opponent a brief reprieve and the chance to unveil her final form: Symphony Regalia Da Capo.<br>
Nonon begins blasting Beethoven's Fifth Symphony from her helmet, the deafening volume disrupting the link between Ryūko and Senketsu, hindering their ability to concentrate. Sanageyama, eager to be the one to defeat Ryūko, yells out words of encouragement, prompting Nonon to question his loyalty. This distraction grants Ryūko the opportunity to recover and counteract Nonon's sonic assault by transforming its frequency into a pure tone that syncs with her heartbeat.<br>
With their connection restored, Ryūko and Senketsu channel the amplified heartbeat back towards Nonon, successfully overwhelming and defeating her. Ryūko's victory over Nonon leaves only one more opponent standing in her way - Sanageyama. However, before their battle can commence, an unexpected figure lands in the arena between them, declaring herself as Ryūko's next challenger.<br>
The mysterious newcomer is revealed to be Nui Harime, the Grand Couturier of Revocs Corporation and a close ally of Ragyō Kiryūin. Sanageyama attempts to intervene, only to be effortlessly thwarted by Nui, who destroys his Blade Regalia Mk 2 in a single move by extracting its Banshi Thread. As Ryūko prepares to face off against Nui, the cunning Grand Couturier unveils the other half of the Scissor Blade, exposing herself as the ruthless killer of Ryūko's father, Isshin Matoi.<br>
This shocking revelation fuels Ryūko's rage, and she charges towards Nui, consumed by her desire for vengeance and the pursuit of truth. With tensions at an all-time high and the stakes higher than ever before, the stage is set for an epic showdown between Ryūko and the enigmatic Nui Harime.
===Episode 5===
'''Episode 12'''<br>
The episode starts with the arrival of a mysterious man with a red mohawk, who makes his way to the terrace of one of the school blocks, and positions himself with what appears to be a rifle, aiming through the window of the adjacent block. He targets Ryūko Matoi but is interrupted by the members of the gardening club who start a fight with him for trampling on their flowers. The scene then shifts, where it's shown that Ryūko faces the biology club's members who have taken Mako as a guinea pig for an unknown experiment. After defeating the members of the biology club, Ryūko scolds Mako for being careless, but suddenly Mako is shot with numerous needles, sending Ryūko in a panic. The attacker is Tsumugu Kinagase, who tells Ryūko that Mako is only unconscious and that she will feel energetic when she wakes up. He then proceeds to attack Ryūko and tells her to strip. Ryūko asks him if he belongs to a "Pervert club", but he tells her that he does not belong to any club and he stops Ryūko from transforming. Before he can finish Ryūko off, he is shot with a pin that pierces his hand, forcing him to retreat but not without warning Ryūko that he will fight her once again. The next day Ryūko and Tsumugu fight each other, but he overpowers Ryūko, even when she transforms. After a fierce battle Ryūko reverts to normal form due to exhaustion. Tsumugu then tells Ryūko that she should hand over the Kamui to him and that a Kamui is murderous parasites which kill their user but Ryūko blankly refuses to which he proceeds to kill her, but Senketsu telepathically threatens Tsumugu that if any harm shall befall Ryūko he will kill him, leaving Tsumugu surprised. Nonon Jakuzure arrives with a plan to capture Tsumugu, but Tsumugu uses a smoke bomb to escape taking Ryūko with him. He arrives at Aikurō's house and they talk a bit, while Ryūko thanks Senketsu for saving her tells him that he is her friend making him pleasantly surprised.
Driven by fury upon learning that Nui Harime was her father's killer, Ryūko launches a relentless barrage of attacks on her. However, Nui effortlessly blocks each strike, further enraging Ryūko. As the battle rages, Nui reveals that she was sent by a "friend" to retrieve Isshin's research - the Rending Scissors, a weapon capable of cutting and destroying Life Fibers. During their encounter, Isshin had managed to slash Nui's left eye before she ultimately overpowered him.<br>
Overwhelmed by rage and the desire for revenge, Ryūko loses control, causing Senketsu to transform into a monstrous form. Witnessing this, Satsuki Kiryūin intervenes, transforming into her own Kamui, Junketsu. As the two clash, the Honnōji Academy suffers severe damage.<br>
Meanwhile, Mako Mankanshoku steps in, reminding Ryūko of the precious memories they share, successfully calming her down. Ryūko reverts to her normal form but soon collapses from exhaustion.<br>
In the aftermath of the battle, Satsuki bans Nui from Honnōji Academy and asserts that Ryūko and Senketsu are under her protection. Nui seemingly agrees and withdraws.<br>
Days later, as Honnōji Academy undergoes repairs, Ryūko confronts Satsuki. Satsuki acknowledges that she ordered Nui to retrieve the Rending Scissors from Isshin and implies that she holds the answers Ryūko seeks. When Ryūko attempts to challenge her, Satsuki swiftly incapacitates her, asserting that Ryūko has not fully recovered from her previous battle.<br>
Satsuki then announces the Tri-Cities Raid Trip - an operation to conquer the remaining schools in Japan that are not under her control. With the Elite Four at her side, Satsuki prepares to embark on this ambitious campaign, further escalating the tensions between Honnōji Academy and its adversaries.
===Episode 6===
'''Episode 13'''<br>
The next day Ryūko confronts Aikurō and demands to know how he is associated with the mohawk man who attacked her in the school. At first, Aikurō feigns innocence but after she shows him the picture of him and the man drinking he tells her that the person, Tsumugu Kinagase is a member of the Nudist Beach and that he was sent to fight Ryūko to test her abilities, but Ryūko does not believe his statements and leaves angrily. At the Honnōji Academy club research laboratory, a huge shipment of life-fiber arrives which is being used by sewing club president Shirō Iori to mass-produce Goku uniforms. Athletics club president Uzu Sanageyama requests Satsuki Kiryūin permission to fight Ryūko to which Satsuki says that he will pay a price for his failure in defeating Ryūko. He assures her that he has confidence in his superior eyesight. The next day Ryūko finds a notice from Uzu telling her that he plans to duel with her. Uzu uses his armor the ''Blade Regalia'' and his special ability ''Higi Tengantsu'' to momentarily overpower Ryūko and does damage to her but she uses Sunketsu's torn piece of cloth to blind his visor, blocking his vision, giving her time to deal a finishing blow, defeating him. Uzu refuses to accept defeat and asks for a rematch resulting in him being bashed by Ira Gamagōri, who calls him a disgrace. After his defeat, Uzu meets up with Ira Shiori, sewing club president and tells him to sew his eyes shut as he relied too much on them resulting in his defeat. He then goes to Satsuki who questions his resolve but is impressed when he shows his sacrifice for his overconfidence. He faces Ryūko again and gets back at her for his current state using'' Shingantsu ''an upgraded version of his ''Tengantsu'', viciously attacking her and coming close to killing her only to be stopped by the tearing up of his Goku uniform due to its inability to keep up with his sudden surge of power. Ryūko manages to escape but accepts the fact that the Elite Four aren't show-offs and that they are tough as they come.
Torn between her reluctance to fight and the allure of a free trip, Mako struggles to decide whether to join the field trip. Aikurō Mikisugi inquires about Ryūko's well-being, and Mako reveals that Ryūko hasn't worn Senketsu since recovering. They encounter Shinjirō Nagita, a member of the banned Newspaper Club, who urges Ryūko to don Senketsu and fight for a cause. Unmoved, Ryūko dismisses him, but Mako is forced to participate in the Raid Trip as punishment for distributing Nagita's outlawed newspaper.<br>
When the Disciplinary Committee pursues Nagita, they end up at the Mankanshoku residence, where Ryūko resides. The ensuing chaos leads to Barazō Mankanshoku being knocked out, angering Ryūko. With Senketsu's encouragement, she puts on her Kamui once again and rescues Nagita from the Disciplinary Committee puppets he controlled to manipulate Ryūko.<br>
Nagita's true identity is revealed as Nui Harime, who challenges Ryūko to demonstrate the power she draws from Senketsu. Fearful of losing control, Ryūko holds back, allowing Nui to gain the upper hand. Nui cuts Senketsu into pieces but is stopped by Satsuki before she can finish off Ryūko.<br>
Aikurō Mikisugi discovers that Ryūko has managed to hold onto a single piece of Senketsu, preserving his consciousness. Satsuki instructs Shirō Iori to distribute the remaining pieces of Senketsu among students on the Raid Trip.<br>
'''Episode 14'''<br>
Ryūko awakens in Mikisugi's home, learning of Senketsu's survival within the scarf she clung to. Determined to restore her friend, Ryūko heads towards the Kansai region, where Satsuki has initiated the Tri-City Schools Raid Trip. Ryūko disrupts the Elite Four's attacks on the main schools, reclaiming the scraps given to students to increase their power.<br>
Reuniting with Mako in Ōsaka, Ryūko gathers nearly all of Senketsu's pieces. Senketsu marvels at Ryūko's ability to defeat Kamui-enhanced students without transforming, with Mako attributing her success to her determination to bring Senketsu back. With the final piece in Satsuki's possession, Ryūko readies herself for a climactic confrontation with her ultimate adversary.
===Episode 7===
'''Episode 15'''<br>
Ryūko is attacked by three members of the acrobatic club who have split up and formed their own club to raise their star uniform ranking by defeating her. Mako tells her that if a club member forms their club and becomes its president they will rise to two-star status and if they manage to defeat Ryūko they will be awarded a Three Star Goku uniform. Mako also tells her that the more stars they have the more luxury the student is offered, giving Ryūko the idea to start her own club. When Ryūko discovers how much paperwork is involved she makes Mako its president instead much to her reluctance. As the club progresses so does the living and social condition of the Makanshoku's. But the family gets too carried away by its new-found grandeur and they become slaves to their materialistic urges greatly saddening Ryūko who resigns as a member of the Fight Club. But Mako refuses and Satsuki uses the rift caused by their views as a tool to make Mako fight against Ryūko by giving her a Two-Star Goku uniform and telling her that if she wants to keep her social status as it is now she should fight Ryūko and defeat her, to which Mako agrees, shocking Ryūko. The pair battle but Ryūko only defends herself at first, after a while she stops fighting altogether and takes a harsh beating from Mako until her friend finally snaps back to her senses. Mako disbands the Fight Club and the entire Mankanshoku family apologizes to Ryūko for their behavior and she accepts but warns them not to betray her like that again.
Ryūko confronts Satsuki as she defeats Kaneo Takarada, engaging in a battle for the final piece of Senketsu, the Seki Tekkō. The scene intensifies as Nudist Beach arrives in mechs similar to Takarada's Dōtonbori Robo. Aikurō Mikisugi reveals his true identity to the Student Council, only to discover that they were already aware of Nudist Beach's existence and intentions.<br>
The Elite Four transform into their advanced uniforms and clash with Nudist Beach. Meanwhile, Ryūko remarkably transforms without the final piece, ultimately seizing the Seki Tekkō from Satsuki. With Senketsu restored, Ryūko presents a formidable challenge, asserting that she now fights to protect her friends, vowing to stop Satsuki's destructive ambition.<br>
Their intense battle culminates in a draw as they stand with blades at each other's necks. Satsuki agrees to call off the battle and return to Honnōji Academy with the students. Nonon Jakuzure, however, destroys the Nudist Beach base before their departure.<br>
Gazing upon the ruined city, Ryūko, Mako Mankanshoku, Aikurō, and Tsumugu Kinagase reflect on the events that transpired. Aikurō informs Ryūko that the time has come for her to learn the truth about her father.<br>
'''Episode 16'''<br>
Mikisugi leads Ryūko to an intact section of the Nudist Beach base, accompanied by Mako, to reveal everything about Life Fibers and Isshin Matoi's mission. At the beach, Mikisugi explains that Life Fibers originated from outer space, accelerating humanity's development to conquer and cover the planet with Life Fibers.<br>
Senketsu is shaken by the revelation of his true nature. Mikisugi continues, explaining that Isshin Matoi created the Kamui specifically for Ryūko due to her exceptional Life Fiber tolerance. Isshin's ultimate goal was for Ryūko to foil the Kiryūin's plans.<br>
Distraught by the notion of Senketsu being treated as merely a weapon, Ryūko removes her uniform, refusing to let him harm his own kind. Perceiving Ryūko and Senketsu as no longer useful, Tsumugu prepares to eliminate them.
===Episode 8===
'''Episode 17'''<br>
Ryūko takes Mako to the ruins of her old house, where she tells her about the circumstances surrounding her father's death. that she was sent off to a boarding school by her father at a young age. Her father stayed busy with research throughout her life and she slowly developed into a delinquent. One day she received a note from her father saying he wanted to talk to her. However, when she arrived she found him impaled by one half of the Scissor Blade. He told her that if she wanted to live a quiet and peaceful life then she could leave right then but that if she wanted to continue his fight then she should take the Scissor Blade and try to find the other half of it. He said whoever had the other half would be his killer. At that moment Ryūko noticed the silhouette of someone pass by the doorway to leave the mansion and she gave chase, leaving her father calling out to her saying he had more to tell her. Outside, Ryūko saw someone jump away and escape as the mansion blew up with her father still inside. Ryūko tells Mako that this was a wake-up call for her as she knew next to nothing about her father before then and decided to find who his killer was.
Ryūko's fate hangs in the balance as Tsumugu prepares to eliminate her and Senketsu. In a timely intervention, Mako persuades Ryūko to put Senketsu back on, effectively de-escalating the situation. Tsumugu steps back, allowing the group to recover from the tense moment.
Finding no further clues in the basement where she found Senketsu, Ryūko and Mako head home, only for their scooter to run out of gas. They end up encountering the Disciplinary Committee chair and one of the Elite Four, Ira Gamagōri, who, having just attained his driving license and taking the week off, offers them a ride home. During their drive, they are attacked by the Automotive Airsoft Club led by Ryōsuke Todoroki, who are targeting Gamagōri's Three-Star Goku Uniform Shackle Regalia. Gamagōri defeats them with ease and returns the girls back to the city where they refuel and the trio part ways with Gamagōri promising to face Ryūko on the day of the Election.
Later, Ryūko and Senketsu discuss the recent revelations while observing Tsumugu practicing combat. Ryūko inquires about Tsumugu's unwavering intensity, and Aikurō Mikisugi shares the tragic story of Tsumugu's sister, Kinue Kinagase. As Isshin Matoi's top assistant, Kinue tragically died during a Life Fiber outfit experiment, leaving Tsumugu with her final wish to continue the research. Matoi honored Kinue's wish, ultimately creating Senketsu using a combination of his Life Fibers and DNA from Ryūko's nervous system. Shocked by this revelation, Ryūko questions the reasoning behind Matoi's decision, to which Mikisugi replies that it was to ensure her safety.
The day of the Election arrives and Honnōji's strongest assemble for the Sudden Death Runoff Election, with only Ryūko and the Elite Four making their way to the top. There, Satsuki challenges Ryūko by defeating each of the Elite Four in exchange for details concerning her father's death, her first opponent being Gamagōri.
Arriving at The Great Culture and Sport Festival, Ragyō initiates the Life Fibers' consumption of their wearers. Ryūko, Mako, and the others leap into action, arriving at the stadium aboard Mikisugi's Dōtonbori Robo. As they navigate their way to Ragyō, a sudden blade pierces through her chest, exposing the attack as Satsuki's doing. Satsuki declares her defiance against the Life Fibers and reveals that Honnōji Academy was founded to defeat Ragyō.
===Episode 9===
'''Epsiode 18'''<br>
As Ryūko awaits the time for her battle against Ira Gamagōri, Aikurō Mikisugi asks her to drop out of the match, warning her that she is not ready to face the Elite Four, which she declines. The battle soon begins, with Gamagōri activating his Shackle Regalia, attacking himself in order to provide the power needed to transform into Scourge Regalia. Ryūko soon learns that the Shackle Regalia also serves as an armor protecting its life fibers. This pushes Ryūko into a corner, as she is unable to damage the Shackle Regalia without powering up the Scourge Regalia form.
In a shocking turn of events, Satsuki confronts Ragyō, revealing her longstanding intention to rebel against her mother. Satsuki urges the audience watching the broadcast of The Great Culture and Sport Festival to burn their Revocs clothing in defiance. As the Elite Four engage Nui Harime, Satsuki prepares to finish off Ragyō.
Undeterred, Ryūko keeps on attacking, forcing Gamagōri to bring out Scourge Regalia's full power, attempting to forcefully mold Ryūko into a model student. However, Senketsu sets a plan into motion by pulling Ryūko out of her synchronized mode, allow her to use Senketsu's fangs to break into Gamagōri's uniform and destroy it from the inside using a new form, Senketsu Senjin, winning the match. With Gamagōri defeated, Ryūko prepares to face up against her next opponent, Hōka Inumuta.
Satsuki reminisces about her past, sharing how her father, Soichiro Kiryūin, disclosed Ragyō's plans to her. She details the history of Junketsu as her destined wedding dress and explains that Ragyō married Soichiro to exploit his skills, leading to experimentation on Satsuki as a child. However, Satsuki's inability to fuse with Life Fibers compelled Ragyō to experiment on her newborn daughter instead. Believing the experiment had failed, Ragyō disposed of the child, which led Soichiro to turn against her and rescue their younger daughter.
===Episode 10===
Soichiro entrusted the secret plans, Junketsu, and the role of savior to Satsuki. Fleeing from the Kiryūin Manor, he faked his death to escape Takiji Kuroido's assassination attempt, changing his identity to Isshin Matoi. Ragyō's Life Fiber infusion allows her to heal from Satsuki's attack, prompting Satsuki's second attempt to eliminate her.
The Naturals Election finals continue, with Ryūko going up against Hōka Inumuta's Probe Regalia. Inumuta uses his uniform to analyze Ryūko's fighting abilities and anticipate her movements, but Ryūko counteracts this by pushing herself to her limits and attacking faster than Inumuta's sensors can react. Changing his strategy, Inumuta uses Optical Camouflage to make himself invisible, allowing him to assault Ryūko with unseeable strikes and force her to the very edge of the arena.
However, Rei Hōōmaru interferes, allowing Ragyō to escape and utilize Mind Stitching on Honnōji Academy students, even controlling Ryūko. Satsuki tries to break the mind control, and Ryūko manages to overcome it. Ryūko then battles Nui while Satsuki faces Ragyō. Ryūko's Life Fiber Synchronization empowers her against Nui as Satsuki struggles against Ragyō.
However, Ryūko counters this tactic by expanding Senketsu's eye and attacking the entire battle arena at once, leaving Inumuta unable to evade. With the Elite Four member immobilized, Ryūko goes for the finishing blow, only for Inumuta to forfeit the match on his own. To Ryūko's bewilderment, Inumuta explains that his primary concern is collecting data, not winning; thus, he chose to forfeit the match to preserve his uniform, which had collected significant data on Senketsu.
Ragyō regenerates after Satsuki's decapitation attempt and strips Satsuki of Junketsu, donning it herself. Impressed by Ryūko's synchronization with Senketsu, Ragyō reveals that Ryūko is her second daughter, shocking everyone present.
Ryūko's next opponent is Nonon Jakuzure and her Three-Star Goku Uniform, Symphony Regalia. To Ryūko's dismay, Nonon's "uniform" is a titanic war machine that attacks her with massive sonic vibrations and a variety of music-themed weaponry. Nonon tips the odds even further in her favor by transforming her Symphony Regalia into a flying configuration - when Ryūko protests that the fighters are not supposed to leave the arena, Nonon explains that the rule applies only for being knocked out of the arena. Ryūko is displeased by what she perceives to be the Elite Four making up rules on the fly.
'''Episode 19'''<br>
In the aftermath of Ragyō's shocking revelation that Ryūko is her long-lost second daughter, Ryūko severs Ragyō's hand and reinserts her heart. Ragyō asserts that the strong compatibility with Life Fibers is hereditary, further emphasizing their connection. As chaos ensues, Mako becomes trapped within the COVERS while attempting to evacuate citizens from the stadium. Satsuki initiates the self-destruct sequence at Ragyō Stadium as a last resort.
Unable to get close to Nonon, Ryūko ties a thread to her Scissor Blade and uses it to lasso the Symphony Regalia. Bracing herself with Senketsu's skirt spikes, Ryūko begins tossing Nonon around, relying on Senketsu's Life Fiber-infused defenses to ward off Nonon's attacks. Unfortunately, Nonon turns her attacks on the arena itself, hoping to disqualify Ryūko by forcing her to fall. Ryūko quickly comes up with a countermeasure: have Senketsu reconfigure into the flight-capable Senketsu Shippu. This persistence pushes Nonon's temper to its limit - declaring that the sky is her world, she resumes her attack.
A month passes, with Ryūko lying comatose at the Nudist Beach base in Ōsaka. Ragyō deploys COVERS to attack the city, prompting Gamagōri to test a new weapon that extracts humans from the COVERS. With Guts' help, Gamagōri successfully rescues Mako. The remaining COVERS create a cacophony that unexpectedly awakens Ryūko, who swiftly eliminates them with her Scissor Blade. Despite her successful defense of the city, Ryūko refuses to wear Senketsu, expressing her desire to distance herself from him and the events that have transpired.
===Episode 11===
'''Episode 20'''<br>
With her smaller and more maneuverable Senketsu Shippu, Ryūko has the upper hand against Nonon in the air and manages to destroy her Symphony Regalia Presto. Grounded, Nonon begins to take a beating from Ryūko who attacks her with her finishing move. However, she was unable to absorb the Life Fibers in Nonon's uniform and the Elite Four member still has another form up her sleeve as she transforms into Symphony Regalia Da Capo. She starts blasting Beethoven's Fifth Symphony out of her helmet, the sheer loudness causes Senketsu's link to Ryūko to weaken as he is unable to concentrate. Sanageyama yells at Ryūko not to lose to Nonon because he wants to be the one to defeat her, Nonon yells at him and asks him whose side he's on. This reprieve allows Ryūko to get up and she begins to block Nonon's blast by changing its frequency into a pure tone that matches the beat of her heart. Senketsu is then able to focus on Ryūko's heartbeat and they are able to blast Nonon's attack back towards her, managing to defeat her.
Ryūko's resentment towards Senketsu becomes evident, prompting Mako to express her concern that Ryūko has lost touch with her true self. Ryūko admits that discovering the truth about her parents and her Life Fiber-infused body has changed her. Their conversation is interrupted by Nui Harime and Ragyō Kiryūin, appearing as Life Fiber-controlled body doubles.
Nui and Ragyō invite Ryūko to face them at Honnōji Academy. Despite Aikurō Mikisugi's warning about the trap, Ryūko ignores him and destroys his DTR. Expressing her frustration at being kept in the dark, she leaves for Honnōji Academy on a motorcycle.
Upon arrival, Ryūko battles Nui, eventually outmaneuvering her and striking her heart with the Scissor Blades. Nui feigns injury before revealing her Life Fiber-infused body and regeneration abilities. She discloses that Ragyō created her in an artificial uterus as part of her ongoing experiments to create a Life Fiber-infused human, following Ryūko's supposed death as a baby. Ryūko is then restrained by Nui with Life Fibers and forced to wear Junketsu, with her memories altered to ensure her loyalty to Ragyō.
Meanwhile, Satsuki, having escaped from Honnōji Academy amid the chaos, relaxes on the Naked Sun 1 with a cup of tea made by Mitsuzō. The ship's radars detect an incoming object, which crashes onto the deck, revealing a brainwashed Ryūko wearing Junketsu. Tsumugu tries to combat her in an upgraded DTR but is swiftly defeated. As Ryūko prepares to kill Tsumugu, Satsuki appears wearing Senketsu and challenges her to a fight.
This leaves only Sanageyama for Ryūko to defeat and they begin their battle in earnest. However, before they are even able to land a single blow, someone lands on the arena between them and says she is the one who will fight Ryūko next. No one knows who the mysterious person is but Satsuki Kiryūin is shocked to see her. She is revealed to be Nui Harime, the Grand couturier of Revocs Corporation and a trusted ally of Satsuki's mother Ragyō Kiryūin. Sanageyama attempts to knock Nui out of his way so he can battle against Ryūko but Nui blocks him effortlessly and proceeds to destroy his Blade Regalia Mk 2 in a single move by pulling out its Banshi Thread. Nui challenges Ryūko and to encourage her to fight she pulls out the other half of the Scissor Blade, revealing herself to be the killer of Ryūko's father, Isshin Matoi. This sends Ryūko into a rage as she prepares to charge at Nui.
'''Episode 21'''<br>
Ragyō and Nui's brainwashing of Ryūko succeeds as she undergoes a transformation with Junketsu. A significant revelation surfaces, unveiling that Nui's Life Fibers impede her ability to draw power from Kamuis. Consequently, this limitation drives her decision to create them instead. Meanwhile, Ragyō embarks on a mission to REVOCS Corporation, where the Original Life Fiber absorbs the officials, ultimately morphing into a colossal airship composed entirely of Life Fibers.
A formidable clash unfolds between Ryūko and Satsuki. Throughout their intense duel, Satsuki skillfully employs the distinct forms of Senketsu, namely Senjin and Shippu. However, the overwhelming might of Ryūko prevails, resulting in her separating Senketsu from Satsuki. The Elite Four make a valiant effort to extricate Ryūko from Junketsu. Yet, they stumble upon a distressing piece of information – attempting to detach Junketsu could potentially prove fatal for Ryūko. Nui affirms this revelation, disclosing that Junketsu has been intricately stitched onto Ryūko.
Mako endeavors to reach out to her friend Ryūko, inadvertently provoking Nui to launch an assault on her. In a timely intervention, Senketsu rescues Mako by compelling her to wear him. This sequence of events paves the way for Satsuki's confrontation with Nui. During the heat of their battle, Satsuki discerns that their adversaries harbor doubts regarding Ryūko's loyalty. In a calculated move, the Elite Four intercede, providing Satsuki with a strategic opening to slice through Junketsu. Seizing the opportunity, Mako hurls Senketsu into the breach, successfully liberating Ryūko with the assistance of Mako and Senketsu. Together, they manage to restore Ryūko's senses.
Nui, presuming their endeavor has failed, implores Ryūko to aid in the ship's destruction. Before Ryūko can react, she seizes the other half of the Scissor Blade and impales Nui, hurling her through the air. In a decisive act, Ryūko forcefully removes Junketsu from her body, enduring substantial blood loss in the process. Her unwavering resolve to wear Senketsu once again drives her actions.
===Episode 12===
'''Episode 22'''<br>
Ryūko Matoi attacks Nui Harime who had revealed that she was her father's killer. Ryūko unleashes a barrage of attacks on Nui, who manages to block each one with ease. Nui then tells the story of how she came to kill Isshin, "a friend" sent her to find out what he had been researching and working on and to retrieve it. Isshin revealed the Rending Scissors as his life's work, a weapon that could cut and destroy Life Fibers. He attacked Nui with them but was unable to do much damage, Nui turned his blade on him and stabbed him with the Scissor Blade. Before she could do anymore however, Ryūko arrived and began calling for her father, using this opportunity Isshin took the other half of the Scissor Blades and slashed through Nui's left eye. Enraged, Nui attacked him ferociously and sent him flying into the wall. She then made her escape as Ryūko found her father.
Ryūko miraculously survives ripping Junketsu off her body, and reunites with Senketsu to face off against Nui Harime. In the ensuing battle, Ryūko reclaims both Scissor Blades and severs Nui's arms. Initially, Nui feigns pain and anger but soon experiences genuine panic as Ryūko destroys the detached limbs using the Scissor Blades. An infuriated Nui is rescued by Rei Hōōmaru, much to Nui's chagrin. Meanwhile, Ryūko's allies deal with the COVERS, extracting the School Club presidents and collecting the remaining Life Fibers.
Hearing this story, Ryūko asks why she did it and Nui responds that it was to find Senketsu. Ryūko finally loses her temper and the heat of her blood causes Senketsu to lose control and both are transformed into a hideous monster. Seeing this, Satsuki Kiryūin realizes why Nui decided to visit so suddenly and immediately goes to intervene. She asks the Elite Four to evacuate the school and transforms with her own Kamui, Junketsu to try and stop the rampaging Ryūko. At first, she tries calling out to her to get a hold of herself but to no avail. The two then begin fighting, which causes severe damage to the school grounds, Satsuki is ready to kill Ryūko and prepares to go in for the final blow, stating that someone who was being worn by their Kamui was no match for her. Before she can strike a final blow however, Mako Mankanshoku steps in and successfully manages to get Ryūko to calm down after reminding her of some of the times they had shared. Ryūko reverts back to normal but soon passes out because of the strain she had been put through. With the battle over, Satsuki bans Nui from Honnōji Academy and tells her to leave Ryūko and Senketsu to her and Nui outwardly agrees.
Following the skirmish, Ryūko challenges Satsuki Kiryūin to a full-force punch to determine if she is worthy of joining forces against Ragyō. Satsuki accepts, but the Elite Four block Ryūko's attempts, asserting their dedication to protecting Satsuki. This display of loyalty helps Ryūko recognize the similarities between Satsuki's relationship with her team and her own bond with Mako and Senketsu. Ryūko ultimately welcomes Satsuki as an ally in their impending battle against Ragyō.
Several days later, Satsuki oversees the repairs being made to Honnōji Academy, as Ryūko who has regained consciousness, steps up towards her. Satsuki notes that she is back on her feet and tells her that if Ryūko has to hate anyone then it should be her and says that she was the one who ordered Nui to get the Rending Scissors from Isshin Matoi and that all the answers Ryūko seeks are with her. Ryūko attempts to challenge her but Satsuki stabs her in the gut and notes that she hasn't recovered fully yet, going on to thank her for her assistance in helping strengthen the Goku Uniforms. She reveals that the Elections were all a ploy to get Ryūko to help her discover the weaknesses in the Uniforms so that they could be strengthened and now she is ready to take over the remaining schools in Japan that were not under her control. She announces the Tri-Cities Raid Trip as the operation that will conquer these remaining schools and it is scheduled to begin soon.
With their combined forces, they develop a strategy to thwart Ragyō's plan of transporting the Original Life Fiber to Honnōji Academy and activating a signal for all other Life Fibers to consume the planet. However, their preparations are disrupted by a sudden missile attack. Ryūko and Satsuki, now referred to as "Lady Ryūko" by Mitsuzō Soroi, join forces to protect the ship. Satsuki unveils a modified Junketsu infused with Life Fibers from Senketsu, transforming it into a new flight-capable form called Senketsu Senpu. Together with Ryūko in Senketsu Shippu, the sisters successfully defend the ship from the incoming missiles. As a colossal COVER emerges from the ocean, Mako reappears, donning her restored 2 Star Goku Uniform, ready to confront the new threat.
===Episode 13===
'''Episode 23'''<br>
Mako tries to decide whether she wants to go on the field trip or not, torn by her reluctance to fight and her desire to have fun on a free trip. Aikurō Mikisugi comes and asks her how Ryūko has been doing, Mako responds that she hasn't worn Senketsu ever since she returned from school after recovering. They are then met by Shinjirō Nagita of the Newspaper Club who has been banned from the school grounds. He wishes to meet Ryūko and tell her to put on her uniform so she can fight to make a difference. Ryūko tells him she doesn't fight because she wants to and that she won't fight for anyone, then she kicks him out of the house. The next day, Nagita gets in trouble for distributing his outlawed newspaper at Honnōji Academy, Mako also gets in trouble for handing them out and is forced to participate in the Raid Trip as punishment. The Disciplinary Committee chases after Nagita who leads them to the Mankanshoku household where Ryūko is to ask her to help him. The Disciplinary Committee catches him but knocks out Barazō Mankanshoku in the process. This angers Ryūko who, with some encouragement from Senketsu himself, puts her Kamui on again. She finds Nagita being accosted by the members of the Disciplinary Committee and defeats them with ease. However it is revealed that they were just puppets being controlled by Nagita to help him get Ryūko to put Senketsu back on. Nagita reveals himself to be none other than Nui Harime in disguise, she asks Ryūko to show her how much power she draws out of Senketsu.
With Mako defending the Naked Sun, Ryūko and Satsuki proceed to confront Ragyō. However, Ragyō reveals her own dual needle blades, modeled after the Bakuzan and Rending Scissors, and effortlessly overwhelms her daughters. As Satsuki steps onto the Original Life Fiber, Ragyō kicks her off, stating that it's not meant to be touched directly. She then directs the Life Fiber toward the Naked Sun to absorb its crew.
Afraid of losing control again, Ryūko holds back and is unable to defeat Nui, who uses her Scissor Blade to beat Ryūko and cut Senketsu into pieces. Before she can finish Ryūko off for good however, Satsuki arrives and stops her. Nui leaves and Satsuki takes all the pieces of Senketsu. Aikurō Mikisugi, who had been trying to figure out Nagita's identity, arrives to find Ryūko and sees she still has one piece of Senketsu clutched in her hand. Satsuki asks Shirō Iori to distribute all the pieces of Senketsu to students on the Raid Trip.
Ryūko devises a plan and signals it to Satsuki. Ryūko charges at Ragyō, seemingly performing a finishing move, but Ragyō impales and slices her in half, throwing her into the sea. Distraught, Mako witnesses the scene but is soon caught off guard by more COVERS. Fortunately, Shirō Iori drops the Elite Four's completed Three Star Goku Uniforms, and they transform into their Ultimate Battle Regalia, executing the combination special move "Utter Victory" to defeat all the COVERS simultaneously.
Satsuki continues battling Ragyō, fueled by rage over Ryūko's apparent demise. However, Ragyō disarms Satsuki, claiming her powers and "makeshift Kamui" can't match hers due to lacking Life Fiber infusion. Undeterred, Satsuki asserts that Ragyō will pay for underestimating her. Suddenly, Ryūko emerges from the sea, having regenerated her Life Fibers underwater, and attacks the Original Life Fiber, shocking Ragyō.
===Episode 14===
Satsuki seizes the opportunity to free herself from Ragyō's grasp, revealing that Ryūko's sacrifice was a strategic move to provide an opening. Ryūko reaches the Life Fiber's core and prepares to destroy it but struggles to cut through it. Meanwhile, Aikurō converts the Naked Sun into a seam ripper-like form and charges toward the Original Life Fiber. The Elite Four assist Satsuki in fighting Ragyō, while Mako manually powers the ship's turbine, granting it enough speed to reach the core.
Awakening in Mikisugi's home, Ryūko discovers Senketsu's consciousness still lives in the scarf that she managed to hold onto. After learning what had happened to his other pieces, Ryūko heads towards the Kansai region, where Satsuki has begun the Tri-City Schools Raid Trip. As the Elite Four attack the main schools in the tri-city area, Ryūko interrupts each of their raids and recovers the scraps that had been given to some of the students to increase their power before heading to her next destination, eventually reuniting with Mako in Ōsaka. Senketsu notes the ease with which Ryūko was able to take down all the Kamui-enhanced students despite not being able to transform and Mako says it's because she's fired up to get her friend back the way he should be. With nearly all of Senketsu's pieces gathered, Ryūko prepares to face Satsuki, who possesses the final piece.
===Episode 15===
Upon seeing Mako and the Naked Sun, Ryūko gains renewed determination and manages to slice through the Life Fiber. The Naked Sun rams into Honnōji Academy, successfully destroying the Original Life Fiber and infuriating Ragyō, who retreats while claiming it's not over yet. The team takes a brief respite, enjoying Mitsuzō Soroi's tea before Ryūko and Satsuki brace themselves for the final battle.
Ryūko finds Satsuki just as she defeats Kaneo Takarada and starts battling her for the final piece of Senketsu, the Seki Tekkō. Eventually, Nudist Beach makes an appearance in mechs very similar to the one Takarada was using, the Dōtonbori Robo, and Aikurō Mikisugi reveals his true identity to the Student Council. However, they in turn reveal that they were already aware of Nudist Beach's existence and Aikurō's true intentions, as well as the true objective of the Tri-City Schools Raid Trip: to uncover and destroy the Nudist Beach organization, which was hiding behind and offering support to the schools of Kansai.
In the post-credits scene, Nui presents the completed Shinra-Kōketsu to Ragyō, who dons it in preparation to eliminate her daughters.
|}
The Elite Four transform into their Mk.II and Mk.III uniforms and engage Nudist Beach in battle. Meanwhile, Ryūko manages to transform even without the final piece, and manages to wring the Seki Tekkō from Satsuki's hand, at last completing Senketsu. With Senketsu back to his old self, Ryūko is able to give Satsuki a real challenge and she tells Satsuki that she no longer fights for her rage but instead does it to protect her friends and that if Satsuki seeks to destroy everything to get her way then she would stop her. She manages to fight toe to toe with Satsuki, and they eventually reach a draw.
==Personality==
*'''Fierce and Stubborn:''' Ryūko is known for her fierce determination and stubborn nature, never backing down from a fight, no matter the odds. She is fearless, as demonstrated by her bold confrontation with Satsuki Kiryūin and her willingness to fight Takaharu Fukuroda, even when outmatched. Ryūko’s refusal to yield is one of her defining traits, which is evident in her dogged pursuit of her father's killer.
With blades at each others' necks, Satsuki agrees to call off the battle and return to Honnōji Academy with the students, but not before Nonon Jakuzure destroys the Nudist Beach base. Their objective fulfilled, the Student Council returns to Honnōji Academy. Ryūko, Mako Mankanshoku, Aikurō and Tsumugu Kinagase gaze at the destroyed city, and Aikurō tells Ryūko that the time has come at last for her to learn the truth about her father.
*'''Embarrassed but Resolute:''' Despite her tough exterior, Ryūko is not entirely devoid of self-consciousness. She feels embarrassed when forced to fight in Senketsu’s alternate form, which is more revealing, but she overcomes this discomfort, showing that she’s willing to fight to the death when necessary. This highlights her complex nature, balancing between fierce bravery and vulnerability.
===Episode 16===
*'''Occasionally Warm and Polite:''' While most often seen as fierce, Ryūko has moments of calmness, warmth, and politeness. She is particularly fond of the Mankanshoku family, admiring the kindness of Mako’s mother and enjoying family dinners, something she missed out on due to her own family’s tragic past. Her interactions with others can be surprisingly gentle and grateful, especially when she feels flattered or treated with kindness.
Mikisugi takes Ryūko to an undamaged section of the Nudist Beach base, an actual beach, to tell her everything about Life Fibers and her father's mission. Mako tags along, wanting to be by her friend's side no matter what. At the base, Mikisugi reveals that Life Fibers are originally from outer space and that they accelerated humanity's development to take over the planet and cover it in Life Fibers.
Senketsu is in shock at learning what he is but Mikisugi has more to reveal as he goes on to explain that Isshin Matoi made the Kamui specifically for Ryūko and only she can use it to its full potential. He says this is because of Ryūko's unusually high tolerance for Life Fibers that Isshin noticed and he did all this so that Ryūko could foil the Kiryūin's plans. Ryūko is disgusted at how Senketsu is being treated as just a weapon and not a being of his own and takes off her uniform, refusing to let him kill his own kind. Deeming Ryūko and Senketsu to be of no more use, Tsumugu prepares to kill them.
*'''Sharp and Self-Aware:''' Ryūko is not one to back down from a fight, but she also shows a sharp wit. She is aware of the absurdity in certain situations, like when she critiques the attempts of a street punk to mug her or when she assesses the ridiculousness of an opponent. Her ability to see through such antics shows a level of self-awareness and practicality, as she often avoids fighting those who can’t fight back.
===Episode 17===
*'''Sadistic and Wild Under Mind Control:''' When brainwashed by Ragyō, Ryūko’s personality takes a darker turn, becoming sadistic and destructive. She wreaks havoc without reason, showing a complete departure from her usual self. However, after being freed, she returns to her more grounded personality, though she is somewhat calmer and more mature. This shift also allows her to make peace with Satsuki, though she still struggles with recognizing her as her sister.
Tsumugu prepares to finish off Ryūko and Senketsu but before he can do so Mako interjects and tells Ryūko to put Senketsu back on, Senketsu also agrees by saying that she'll catch a cold. This manages to calm Ryūko down and Tsumugu backs off. Later on outside, Ryūko and Senketsu talk about what they had just learned and see Tsumugu practicing for combat. Ryūko wonders why he is always so intense and Aikurō Mikisugi tells her it is because his sister Kinue Kinagase who was Isshin Matoi's best assistant died in an accident one day during experiments to make a Life Fiber outfit fit for combat. Her last words to Tsumugu were to let the experiments continue. Dr. Matoi continued his work and finally made Senketsu after splicing his Life Fibers with the DNA from Ryūko's nervous system, Ryūko is shocked at this and asks why he did that. Mikisugi replies that Dr. Matoi said it was to keep her safe.
Ryūko and the others arrive at The Great Culture and Sport Festival just as Ragyō has the Life Fibers begin to devour their wearers and jump into the stadium on Mikisugi's Dōtonbori Robo, which he insists on calling a DTR because he dislikes the full name. As they make their way to Ragyō, they are shocked as a blade suddenly stabs its way through her chest, this is revealed to be an attack from Satsuki who says that she is rising up against the Life Fibers. She continues and says she made Honnōji Academy for the sole purpose of defeating Ragyō.
*'''Reconciled but Conflicted:''' By the end of her journey, Ryūko becomes more mature and capable of working alongside Satsuki, recognizing her as a comrade in arms. Despite this, Ryūko has trouble fully embracing Satsuki as a sister, though a moment of vulnerability when Satsuki catches her and welcomes her home shows Ryūko’s growing emotional acceptance, as she finally calls her "sis."
===Episode 18===
==Appearance==
Satsuki tells Ragyō that she always planned to rise up against her and makes a plea to all the people watching the broadcast of the Festival to burn their Revocs clothing. The Elite Four neutralize Rei Hōōmaru and face off against Nui Harime, to allow Satsuki to finish off Ragyō. Satsuki recalls how her father told her of her mother's plans and that Junketsu would be her wedding dress. She talks about how Ragyō married Soichiro Kiryūin for access to his skills and how she was experimented on as a child but failed to fuse with Life Fibers. Ragyō then attempted to fuse Life Fibers with an even younger child, her newborn daughter. The experiment seemed to have failed however and Ragyō disposed of the child. This left Sōichiro aghast and it was at that moment that he turned against Ragyō and dedicated himself to foil her plans. He secretly retrieved his younger daughter, who was still alive and revealed all of Ragyō's secret plans to Satsuki, showing her Junketsu and calling it her wedding dress. He fled from the Kiryūin Manor but Takiji Kuroido went after him and attempted to assassinate him, Sōichiro faked his death and managed to escape with his daughter, changing his identity to Isshin Matoi.
*'''Looks:''' Ryūko is a slender, seventeen-year-old girl of medium height, characterized by her striking dark-blue hair that reaches just past her shoulders. The hair is often styled with a distinct left-swept red highlight in her bangs, giving her a bold and rebellious appearance. Her blue eyes stand out due to their unusual gear-like pupils, which feature eight grooves around the edges, adding a mechanical quality to her gaze. Her youthful face carries an expression that fluctuates between determination and intensity, reflecting her strong-willed personality.
All this while, Ragyō had recovered from the injuries inflicted on her by Satsuki because of her being infused with Life Fibers. Satsuki attempts to finish her off but Rei Hōōmaru intervenes and distracts her long enough to allow Ragyō to escape Satsuki's trap. She then Mind Stitches all the students of Honnōji Academy to attack Satsuki, even managing to Mind Stitch Ryūko. Satsuki attempts to snap her out of the mind control and Ryūko manages to get a hold of herself and escape Ragyō's influence. The two then split up with Ryūko fighting Nui and Satsuki facing off against Ragyō. Ryūko manages to achieve true Life Fiber Synchronization with Senketsu and overpowers Nui. Satsuki chops off Ragyō's head but a single Fiber still connects her head to her body and she is able to regenerate. She tells Satsuki she was never able to bring out Junketsu's true power. Satsuki attacks her but she blocks it, snapping the Bakuzan in two and proceeds to strip Satsuki of Junketsu and wears it herself. Upon seeing how well Ryūko uses Senketsu she becomes intrigued and faces her, pulling her heart out, showing that it is infused with Life Fibers. To everyone's shock Ragyō then states that this proves Ryūko is her second daughter.
*'''Regular Clothes:''' Initially, Ryūko dresses in a simple, yet functional outfit suited for her active lifestyle. She wears a white, short-sleeved shirt with a red ribbon tie at the collar, paired with a black miniskirt that ends mid-thigh. Her feet are clad in white sneakers that complement her straightforward style. Over her shirt, she dons a black-and-white jacket with rolled-up sleeves, giving her a casual, carefree look. In her childhood, her attire was more innocent, consisting of a red collared shirt and a white skirt, matched with white shoes, signaling her earlier years of innocence and simplicity before her journey began.
===Episode 19===
*'''Special Clothes:''' As Ryūko embarks on her quest, her regular clothes are replaced by Senketsu, a living, highly advanced sailor uniform made of Life Fibers. Senketsu’s upper body resembles a crop top with mid-length sleeves, exposing her midriff in a bold fashion. The sailor-style collar is marked by red stripes and is secured with a multicolored scarf, which also serves as Senketsu’s left "eye." His right eye, however, is hidden beneath a black eyepatch, which is scarred with an X-shaped mark, possibly referencing Ryūko’s father’s own eyepatch. The uniform’s lower section, representing Senketsu's lower jaw, is a skirt that is held up by suspenders attached to a belt, leaving her torso and midriff exposed. Ryūko’s appearance is further enhanced by the addition of the Nihongo, a red, finger-less glove worn on her left hand, which contains a built-in syringe to draw blood that she uses to feed Senketsu.
As Ragyō shocks everyone with the revelation that Ryūko is her long lost second daughter, Ryūko chops off her hand and puts her heart back in. Ragyō claims that as irrefutable proof of their relationship, claiming that such a strong compatibility with Life Fibers can only be hereditary. Meanwhile, while attempting to evacuate the citizens from the stadium, Mako gets absorbed by the COVERS. Satsuki resorts to her fail safe and causes Ragyō Stadium to self destruct.
A month later, Ryūko is comatose in the Nudist Beach base at Ōsaka. Ragyō sends some COVERS to attack Ōsaka, where Gamagōri tries out a new weapon that extracts humans out of COVERS, he manages to rescue Mako after Guts sniffs out the COVER she was in. The other COVERS create a cacophony and wake Ryūko up who destroys them instantly with her Scissor Blade but refuses to put Senketsu on and says she doesn't want anything to do with him anymore.
==Relationships==
===Senketsu===
Initially, Ryūko felt a sense of discomfort and embarrassment when wearing Senketsu, particularly due to the revealing nature of his transformed appearance. However, over time, she comes to realize that in order to fully unlock Senketsu's potential, she must embrace him without hesitation and wear him confidently. Her feelings evolve as she grows to deeply care for Senketsu, considering him not just a tool, but a cherished companion. In fact, she becomes so protective of him that she expresses she would fight to the death to keep him, saying they’d have to pry him from her "cold, dead fingers" if they ever tried to take him away. Ryūko also shows concern when Mako's mother mishandles Senketsu during a rough wash, highlighting her growing attachment. At one point, she even swore off wearing Senketsu, overwhelmed by the belief that she herself had become a monster due to her connection with Life Fibers. However, after gaining clarity and distancing herself from Junketsu, Ryūko's bond with Senketsu is rekindled, and she embraces him once again, fully accepting their shared strength.
===Episode 20===
===Aikurō Mikisugi===
After Ryūko expresses her resentment towards Senketsu, Mako confronts her and says that she is no longer being herself. Ryūko responds by saying that she is in fact no longer the same after finding out the truth about her parents and her Life Fiber-infused body. Ryūko is interrupted by Nui Harime and Ragyō Kiryūin, who appear as remote-controlled body doubles composed of Life Fibers.
Although Ryūko doesn’t fully trust Aikurō Mikisugi at first, his actions show a consistent desire to help her uncover the truth behind her father's mysterious death. He is always keeping a watchful eye over her, carefully observing her battles and standing ready to intervene should something go awry. Aikurō is particularly concerned about the rapid evolution of Senketsu and often finds himself conflicted when it comes to making difficult decisions regarding Ryūko’s safety. His attempts to impress Ryūko with his well-maintained physique often leave her flustered and uncomfortable, though he seems oblivious to her discomfort. Aikurō's hesitation is also notable when it comes to the idea of eliminating Ryūko, even when Tsumugu Kinagase suggests it as a possibility. This is most apparent when Ryūko loses control and is overtaken by her Kamui, yet Aikurō hesitates to shoot her, instead alerting her berserk form to his presence, showing his reluctance to harm her even in the most dire of circumstances.
Nui and Ragyō invite Ryūko to face them at Honnōji Academy. Aikurō Mikisugi warns Ryūko that it's a trap, but she doesn't listen and destroys his DTR. She tells him that she's tired of following him around, and how she hates him for not telling her the truth about her past all along. Mako tries one last time to get Ryūko to wear Senketsu, but is not able to do so. Aikurō tries to follow Ryuko to explain that he did not know the truth about her past, but is stopped by Tsumugu Kinagase. Ryūko leaves to Honnōji Academy on a motorcycle.
===[[Mako Mankanshoku]]===
When Ryūko first entered the academy, she was somewhat put off by Mako’s intense and almost overwhelming attachment to her. Mako’s exuberance and affection were initially a bit much for Ryūko to handle, and she felt somewhat uncomfortable with the situation. However, as time passed, the two developed a strong, unshakeable bond, growing to care deeply for each other. Their friendship blossomed, and Mako quickly became one of Ryūko’s most steadfast supporters, cheering her on through every fight and offering unwavering encouragement. Senketsu himself even recognizes Mako as the key to helping Ryūko relax and regain her focus. Before Ryūko’s final battle, Mako asks her on a date, and Ryūko holds onto that promise as a source of motivation to keep fighting. In the end, they share that date, accompanied by Satsuki, as the credits roll, showing just how far their bond has come since their first meeting.
At Honnōji Academy Ryūko fights Nui. After a while, she's able to outpace Nui's movements and stab her in the heart with the Scissor Blades. Nui pretends for a while to be struggling in great pain, but eventually reveals that she's also infused with Life Fibers and actually capable of regenerating. Nui also reveals that, after Ryūko's supposed death as a baby, she was created by Ragyō in an artificial uterus made of Life Fibers, as part of her third attempt of making a Life Fiber-infused human.Ryūko is then surprised by Ragyō, who presents her with a modified version of Junketsu. Ryūko is constrained by Life Fibers sewn into her skin by Nui during their fight, and forced to wear Junketsu. Her memories are altered by Ragyō so that she is now loyal to her.
===Satsuki Kiryūin===
At the start of their relationship, Ryūko and Satsuki harbored an intense mutual dislike, mainly due to the fact that Satsuki kept vital information about her father's death from Ryūko. This tension reached its peak when Ryūko discovered Satsuki’s apparent disregard for the truth and felt betrayed. However, after their intense confrontation in Osaka, both women began to gain a deeper understanding of one another, and their hatred started to shift into a reluctant respect. This evolution was further challenged when, in episode 17, Satsuki revealed her true motivations: she had staged a coup behind her mother’s back to seek revenge for her father and her baby sister, whom she believed had been disposed of after a failed experiment to merge her with Life Fibers. When Ryūko learns that she is actually that sister, having survived the experiment and fused with Life Fibers, the revelation deepens their connection. By episode 22, Ryūko and Satsuki come to terms with one another and ultimately join forces to defeat Ragyō and the original Life Fiber. In the end, their animosity gives way to a deep, mutual understanding, and they fully accept each other as sisters, solidifying a bond that is heartwarming and poignant, much to the surprise and delight of those around them.
At the Naked Sun 1, Satsuki rests after successfully escaping from Honnōji Academy in the chaos of Ryūko's arrival and enjoys a cup of tea made by Mitsuzō. The ship's radars detect an unknown object incoming at high speed. A light blue ball of light collides with the ship's deck causing minimal damage to the ship, and is revealed to be the now brainwashed Ryūko, wearing Junketsu. Tsumugu attempts to face her in his prototype upgraded DTR, which is more powerful than the original one she destroyed, but is quickly defeated. When Ryūko is about to kill Tsumugu, Satsuki appears, now wearing Senketsu, and challenges her to a fight.
===Uzu Sanageyama===
Sanageyama's initial rivalry with Ryūko stemmed from her constant victories over the various sports clubs he managed. Confident in his abilities, he believed his Tengantsu would be enough to defeat her and was the first member of the Elite Four to openly challenge Ryūko. However, his overconfidence led to his downfall when a tactic that deprived him of his Tengantsu resulted in his crushing defeat and public humiliation. Eager to restore his pride and defeat Ryūko, Sanageyama took extreme measures, sewing his eyes shut to enhance his strength for their next confrontation. Despite his enhanced abilities, the overheating of his uniform prevented him from finishing the battle, allowing Ryūko to escape and leaving him in disgrace once again. Though Satsuki reassured him, Sanageyama remained determined to finish their fight at the Naturals Election, but he was thwarted by Nui's interference. By that point, however, he had come to respect Ryūko, calling her "the woman who took his eyes (Tengantsu) and gave him the world (Shingantsu)."
===Episode 21===
===Nui Harime===
Ragyō and Nui successfully brainwash Ryūko and she transforms with Junketsu. It is revealed that the Life Fibers inside Nui repel all other Life Fibers and that is why she is unable to draw any power out of Kamuis which is why she chose to make them instead. Before leaving after Satsuki, she kisses Nui for good luck and Ragyō leaves for REVOCS Corporation, taking the officials to be absorbed by the Original Life Fiber, which then transforms into a giant airship made entirely of Life Fibers.
Ryūko harbors an intense and deep-seated hatred for Nui, primarily because Nui is responsible for the death of her father. This animosity causes Ryūko to lose control of her emotions, to the point where it triggers Senketsu to go Berserk in an uncontrollable rage. In Episode 13, Ryūko's anger turns to fear at the prospect of encountering Nui again, dreading the possibility of losing herself in another violent rampage, which could end in her death. However, by Episode 22, after being freed from Nui's manipulation, Ryūko's fury shifts into a more composed and calculated form of hatred. She cuts off Nui’s arms and absorbs the Life Fibers within them, causing Nui to lose her trademark cutesy demeanor. This marks a significant turning point, with Nui vowing revenge and Ryūko's former hatred now reduced to a simmering annoyance, which only serves to further enrage Nui, as she had once thrived on the anger Ryūko directed toward her.
===Ragyō Kiryūin===
Ragyō Kiryūin, the head of the Revocs Corporation and Satsuki’s mother, initially draws Ryūko’s scorn when they meet in Episode 17. Ryūko mocks her for her arrogance and self-congratulatory attitude. However, her disdain turns into something much more intense when she discovers the horrifying truth: Ragyō is not just an enemy, but her own mother, and she had fused Ryūko with Life Fibers as an infant, causing the pain and torment that shaped her life. After Ragyō's defeat, Ryūko, despite the overwhelming betrayal, shows a moment of sympathy, attempting to convince Ragyō to surrender peacefully. However, Ragyō rejects this offer, preferring instead to pull out her own heart and take her life rather than return to Earth with Ryūko. This tragic choice highlights the deep, irreconcilable rift between them.
At the Naked Sun, Ryūko and Satsuki begin their face-off and Satsuki uses both of Senketsu's forms, Senjin and Shippu during the course of the battle to throw Ryūko off guard. She also uses a combination of both forms to attack her. Though ultimately Ryūko is too powerful to be kept down for long. She begins to overpower Satsuki and gives her a brutal barrage of attacks, slicing Senketsu off of her. The Elite Four rush in and trick Ryūko into a range of Gamagōri's extraction weapon. They are unable to extract her however, as Nui Harime intervenes and reveals that Junketsu was stitched onto Ryūko and that trying to remove it from her would kill her from the shock.
===Junketsu===
In Episode 20, Ryūko falls victim to a trap set by Ragyō and is forced to wear Junketsu, the Kamui once worn by Satsuki. While under Junketsu’s influence, Ryūko’s personality undergoes a drastic change: she becomes bloodthirsty and battle-obsessed, turning against her friends and allies. Her strength and speed are also amplified, making her a dangerous opponent. However, once the mental control is lifted, Ryūko is filled with disgust and fury at having been manipulated into wearing Junketsu. Overcome with revulsion, she immediately tears it off, horrified by the loss of her own agency and the role Junketsu played in her descent into madness.
Mako attempts to reach out to her friend and save her saying she is still the same Ryūko. Nui finds this annoying and tries to kill Mako, who is saved by Senketsu who forces her to wear him. Satsuki engages Nui in combat and during their fight, she claims that they will be victorious as Nui has still kept her half of the Scissor Blade and that shows they are still unsure of Ryūko's loyalties, Nui becomes agitated at this and her reaction assures Satsuki that her theory is correct. The Elite Four once again barge in to distract Nui and Satsuki goes after Ryūko, slicing open Junketsu so that Mako can throw Senketsu into it and free Ryūko. Mako is also absorbed alongside Senketsu and they both manage to bring Ryūko back to her senses. They are ejected out of her and Nui believes that they failed and asks Ryūko to help her destroy the ship, before she can do anything though, she is impaled in the chest by the other half of the Scissor Blade and sent flying. Ryūko proceeds to tear Junketsu off her herself and causes a shower of blood in the process, saying that it's the only way she can wear Senketsu again.
==General Information==
'''Name:''' Ryūko Matoi
===Episode 22===
'''Other Names:''' Senketsu (Kamui)
Ryūko successfully rips Junketsu off of her body without dying. She reunites with Senketsu and fights against Nui Harime, recovering both Scissor Blades. When Nui tries to stab her through the throat, Ryūko gets behind the Grand Couturier and chops her arms off. Although Nui puts on a show of pain and anger, the facade soon becomes real panic when Ryūko destroys the arms, severed thanks to the Scissor Blades. An enraged Nui is rescued by Rei Hōōmaru, to the former's anger; while Ryūko's allies deal with the COVERS, extracting the School Club presidents and gathering the Life Fibers left behind.
Afterwards, Ryūko tells Satsuki Kiryūin that she will punch her full force to determine if she's worthy of fighting alongside her against Ragyō. Satsuki accepts the challenge but Ryūko is unable to get a hit in as the Elite Four block her attempts and tell her that they won't let her touch Satsuki while they're around. Ryūko realizes that Satsuki has people looking out for her the same way Mako and Senketsu do for herself and allows Satsuki to join her for the battle against Ragyō. They all prepare their battle plans, which is to stop Ragyō from taking the Original Life Fiber to Honnōji Academy and using it to send a signal to all the other Life Fibers to devour the planet. They are attacked by missiles and Ryūko and Satsuki both prepare to protect the ship, Mitsuzō Soroi asks "Lady Ryūko" to protect her sister and she agrees though is flustered at having to call Satsuki her sister. Satsuki uses a modified Junketsu which is able to take a new form capable of flight after being infused with Life Fibers from Senketsu. She calls the new form Senketsu Senpu and along with Ryūko in Senketsu Shippu, both sisters protect the ship from the missiles. A giant COVER rises from the ocean in front of the Naked Sun but is met with Mako who has her old 2 Star Goku Uniform back.
'''Origin:''' Kill la Kill
===Episode 23===
'''First Appearance:''' Kill La Kill Episode 1
Ryūko and Satsuki, reassured now that Mako is defending the Naked Sun, continue on their flight to the Original Life Fiber and Ragyō. They arrive and begin to attack her but she pulls out dual needle blades of her own from the Original Life Fiber and blocks her daughters' attacks. Ragyō explains that both the Bakuzan and the Rending Scissors were based on the needle blades and then she begins to fly herself and attacks her daughters. They are no match for her and as Satsuki steps onto the Original Life Fiber Ragyō immediately rushes to kick her off, saying the Original Life Fiber was not meant to be stepped on, having herself stood upon it with a tissue instead of having direct contact with it. Ragyō then directs the Life Fiber towards the Naked Sun so it can absorb the ship's crew. Ryūko devises a plan and signals it to Satsuki, who understands and nods. Ryūko then charges towards Ragyō with both her Scissor Blades to perform her finishing move but before she is able to complete it Ragyō stabs her with both her blades and slices her in half, throwing her into the sea. Mako sees this as she is defending the ship and is left distraught. Suddenly, more COVERS appear and catch her off guard but at that moment Shirō Iori drops the Elite Four's now completed new Three Star Goku Uniforms and they all transform into their Ultimate Battle Regalia. Using their combination special move "Utter Victory", they defeat all the COVERS at once, leaving Mako impressed though Tsumugu believes they were being too flashy.
Satsuki continues her fight with Ragyō, enraged at what she did to her sister but is quickly disarmed by Ragyō who grabs her by the throat. She tells Satsuki that they had only gotten that far because of Ryūko and the powers she held due to being infused with Life Fibers. Saying that since Satsuki wasn't infused with Life Fibers, then she and her "makeshift Kamui" wouldn't be able to beat her. Satsuki accepts that she may be a fraud but even so Ragyō would pay if she underestimated her. Suddenly, Ryūko bursts out of the sea and begins to attack the Original Life Fiber, leaving Ragyō shocked. Satsuki frees herself from Ragyō's grip and clacks her heel on the Life Fiber, saying this was all part of Ryūko's plan, where she blocked the needle blades just enough to protect some her Life Fibers to be able to regenerate underwater and be in the perfect position to attack the Original Life Fiber. Ryūko makes her way to the core of the Life Fiber and opens her Scissor Blades to dual decapitation mode to destroy it but struggles to cut through it. Back at the Naked Sun, Aikurō converts the ship to it's closed form, which resembles a seam ripper and attempts to charge at the Original Life Fiber with it while the Elite Four assist Satsuki in fighting Ragyō and keeping her busy. With the ship's turbines not moving fast enough for it to cause any significant damage, Mako suddenly steps up and starts running a turbine with all her might so that she is able to help her friend and manages to give the ship a huge boost and lets it cut straight through to the core where Ryūko is. She is shocked to see the ship, being powered by Mako come all this way and upon her friend again becomes fired up and with the help of the ship manages to cut straight through the Original Life Fiber, with the Naked Sun ramming straight into the side of Honnōji Academy. Ragyō is surprised and angered that the Original Life Fiber was destroyed and retreats to Honnōji Academy saying that it is not yet over. Everyone takes a break and has some of Mitsuzō Soroi's tea, then Satsuki and Ryūko prepare for the final battle.
'''Company:''' Studio Trigger
In the post-credits, Nui shows up, looming comically large over the Academy as she presents the now completed Shinra-Kōketsu to Ragyō who puts it on and prepares to finish off her daughters.
'''Creator:''' Kazuki Nakashima
===Episode 24===
'''Actor'''
===Episode 25===
*'''Japanse Voice Actor:''' [https://www.kill-la-kill.jp/staff_cast/ Ami Koshimizu]
At first, Ryūko was embarrassed to wear Senketsu due to the rather revealing appearance of his transformed state. However, she understands later on that the only way to be able to use Senketsu to his full potential is to wear him proudly and be open to him. Ryūko cares for Senketsu and considers him a dear friend, even to the point of saying that if Senketsu were to be taken from her they would have to pry him from her cold dead fingers. She was also very concerned when Senketsu was being washed very roughly by Mako's mother. Originally, she decided never to wear Senketsu anymore because she feels that she is a Life Fibers monster herself. After coming to her senses and separating herself from Junketsu, she has rekindled her bond with Senketsu.
===Aikurō Mikisugi===
'''Sexuality:''' '''Bi-Sexual''' (Accepted a date with [[Mako Mankanshoku]])
While Ryūko does not yet seem to trust him completely, Aikurō seems determined to help her uncover the truth behind her father's murder. He is also constantly watching her fight from behind the scenes, always on high alert should something go wrong. He is shown to be especially concerned about Senketsu's fast evolution. When in Ryūko's presence, he has a tendency to show off his well built body. This flusters her and makes her uncomfortable. Aikuro has notably shown hesitation in any case of disposing of Ryūko as suggested by Tsumugu Kinagase, even when Ryūko lost control and was consumed by her Kamui, hesitating in shooting her and alerting her berserked form to his presence.
===Mako Mankanshoku===
'''Pronouns:''' '''She/Her'''
After Ryūko enrolled into the academy, Mako quickly became attached to her. At first, Ryūko felt slightly uncomfortable by Mako's excessive attachment, but with time the two grew to care a lot for each other and quickly became best friends. Mako is always cheering for Ryūko during her fights, and, as Senketsu cleverly noted, is the key to get Ryūko to relax. Prior to Ryūko's final battle, Mako asks her on a date, and Ryūko is seen holding the promise as motivation to keep fighting. They are later seen going on that very date with Satsuki as company as the credits roll.
===Satsuki Kiryūin===
'''Age:''' 17
Ryūko and Satsuki had a strong mutual dislike initially, mostly due to Satsuki withholding information about her father's murder. While they seem to respect each other a bit more after their fight in Osaka in episode 16, her hatred for Satsuki is challenged near the end of episode 17, when Satsuki reveals her coup d'etat behind her mother's back in order to take revenge for her father and baby sister, thought to have been disposed of after a failed attempt to fuse her with Life Fibers. When it is revealed that Ryūko is actually that sister but had actually survived and successfully fused with Life Fibers, by episode 22, Ryūko and Satsuki have come to good terms with each other and team up to defeat Ragyō and the original Life Fiber. Eventually, Ryūko and Satsuki fully accept each other as sisters and are shown to love each other, much to the confusion and heartwarming of the rest of the cast.
===Uzu Sanageyama===
'''Birthday:''' Unknown ([https://x.com/cay_ver_2/status/1047975068582653957 Kazuki Nakashima has said at an event that there are no official birthdays for the Kill la Kill cast])
Sanageyama's initial rivalry towards Ryūko was a result of her having continuously defeated several sports clubs that were under his supervision. Confident that he could beat her with his Tengantsu, he was the first Elite Four to openly challenge her but a tactic that stripped him of his Tengantsu defeated Sanageyama and left him in utter disgrace. Determined to defeat Matoi and win back his lost pride, Sanageyama sewed his eyes to become stronger for his second battle. However, as his uniform overheated from his power before he could deal the finishing blow, Matoi managed to escape, leaving Sanageyama ashamed once more, despite Satsuki's assurance. As a result, he looked forward to finishing their fight at the Naturals Election. Unfortunately, he was denied this chance by Nui's interference. By that time, he found Matoi worthy of respect, calling her "the woman who took his eyes (''Tengantsu'') and gave him the world (''Shingantsu'')".
===Nui Harime===
'''Homeworld:''' Earth
Ryūko has a strong hatred towards Nui, especially due to her being the killer of her father. Ryūko was especially angry to see her, which eventually causes her blood to boil so much that she made Senketsu go Berserk. In Episode 13, however, Ryūko instead fears of seeing Nui again due to her fear of going into another rampage, which might lead to her death. In Episode 22, after being released from being brainwashed, Ryūko cuts off Nui's arms and absorbs its Life Fibers, which leads to Nui losing her cutesy demeanor and swearing revenge. In addition, by this point her hatred toward Nui had cooled into more of an annoyance, which maddens Nui even more as she had previously thrived on Ryūko's hatred of her and makes her hateful toward Ryūko now.
===Ragyō Kiryūin===
'''Residence:''' [[Mako Mankanshoku]]'s house
Head of the Revocs Corporation and Satsuki's mother. When they finally meet in Episode 17, Ryūko scorns her for her self boasting. This disdain, however, turns into seething rage when she learns not only that Ragyō is her mother, but that she has been fused with Life Fibers as a baby at her very hands. After Ragyō's defeat, though, Ryūko does show some consideration for her, and attempts to get her to surrender peacefully but Ragyō chooses to pull out her own heart and would rather commit suicide instead of returning to Earth with Ryūko.
===Junketsu===
'''Story Role:''' Main Protagonist
In Episode 20, Ryūko fell victim to Ragyō's trap and was "worn" by Junketsu, Satsuki's former Kamui. While being worn by Junketsu, Ryūko's personality underwent a complete reversal: she became battle-crazed and bloodthirsty, turning against her own allies. Additionally, her strength and speed increased dramatically. After the mental control was dispelled, Ryūko felt furious and disgusted for having been forced to wear Junketsu, promptly and forcibly tearing it off.
|}
==General Information==
'''Name:''' Ryūko Matoi, Senketsu (Kamui)
'''Origin:''' Kill la Kill
'''Classification:''' (Former) Student of Honnōji Academy
'''Sex:''' Female
'''Species:''' Human-Life Fiber Hybrid
'''Age:''' 17
'''[[State of Being]]:''' '''Regular'''
'''Classification:''' (Former) Student of Honnōji Academy
'''[[Protection Level]]:''' '''Cosmic Protector''' (Protected the world from the Original Life Fiber, who traveled across the universe and destroying everything<ref>''Tell Me How You Feel''</ref>)
'''[[Lifting Strength]]:''' '''Unknown''' | '''Class 1''' (Far stronger than Takaharu Fukuroda, [https://thecodex.wiki/User:GiverOfThePeace/Kill_La_Kill_calcs#Guy_lifts_spiked_gloves_or_something who's boxing gloves weigh around this much]<ref>''If Only I Had Thorns Like a Thistle...''</ref>) | At least '''Class 1''' | '''Class 15''' ([https://youtu.be/udAA1Mrc-RM?t=261 Can lift and throw back a large missile]<ref>''I'm Not Your Cute Women''</ref>) | At least '''Class 15''' | At least '''Class 15''' | At least '''Class 15''' | At least '''Class 15''' | '''Class G''' (Should be comparable to her final key, who can lift her Rending Scissor Blades, [https://youtu.be/vCq1eakHcpk?t=132 which is the size of the academy and larger than the S.S. Naked Sun])<ref>''Goodbye Once Again''</ref> | At least '''Class G''' | '''Class G'''
'''[[Lifting Strength]]:''' '''Unknown''' | '''Class 1''' (Far stronger than Takaharu Fukuroda, [https://thecodex.wiki/User:GiverOfThePeace/Kill_La_Kill_calcs#Guy_lifts_spiked_gloves_or_something who's boxing gloves weigh around this much]<ref>''If Only I Had Thorns Like a Thistle...''</ref>) | At least '''Class 1''' | '''Class 15''' ([https://youtu.be/udAA1Mrc-RM?t=261 Can lift and throw back a large missile]<ref>''I'm Not Your Cute Women''</ref>) | At least '''Class 15''' | At least '''Class 15''' | At least '''Class 15''' | At least '''Class 15''' | '''Class G''' (Should be comparable to her final key, who can lift her Rending Scissor Blades, [https://youtu.be/vCq1eakHcpk?t=132 which is the size of the academy and larger than the S.S. Naked Sun])<ref>''Goodbye Once Again''</ref> | At least '''Class G''' | '''Class G'''
'''[[Speed|Travel Speed]]:''' '''Superhuman''' (Can run up walls<ref>''I'll Wipe My Own Tears''</ref>. Comparable to [[Mako Mankanshoku|Mako]]) | At least '''Superhuman''' (Far faster than before) | At least '''Supersonic''' (Can outrun Tsumugu's gun)<ref>''Trigger''</ref> | At most '''Relativistic''' | At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' (Comparable to the Original Life Fiber, which were stated to travel across the universe<ref>''Tell Me How You Feel''</ref>) | At least At most '''Relativistic'''
'''[[Speed|Travel Speed]]:''' '''Superhuman''' (Can run up walls<ref>''I'll Wipe My Own Tears''</ref>. Comparable to [[Mako Mankanshoku|Mako]]) | At least '''Superhuman''' (Far faster than before) | At least '''Supersonic''' (Can outrun Tsumugu's gun)<ref>''Trigger''</ref> | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | At most '''Faster Than Light''' (Comparable to the Original Life Fiber, which were stated to travel across the universe<ref>''Tell Me How You Feel''</ref>) | At most '''Faster Than Light'''
'''[[Speed|Attack Speed]]:''' '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Comparable to [[Mako Mankanshoku|Mako]]) | At least '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Far superior to Mako) | At least '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Far superior than before) | At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' (Comparable to Ragyo, who uses the power of the Original Life Fiber) | At least At most '''Relativistic'''
'''[[Speed|Attack Speed]]:''' '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Comparable to [[Mako Mankanshoku|Mako]]) | At least '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Far superior to Mako) | At least '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Far superior than before) | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | At most '''Faster Than Light''' (Comparable to Ragyo, who uses the power of the Original Life Fiber) | At most '''Faster Than Light'''
'''[[Reactions|Reaction Speed]]:''' '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Comparable to [[Mako Mankanshoku|Mako]], [https://youtu.be/7lXGiUW7iLg?t=51 who can catch money bullets] [https://thecodex.wiki/User:GiverOfThePeace/Kill_La_Kill_calcs#Mako_Gets_Rich at point blank range]<ref>''Ride Like the Wind''</ref>) | At least '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Far superior to Mako) | At least '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Far superior than before) | At most '''Relativistic''' (Comparable to Sanageyama, who's stated to have the ability to make people think he's moving faster than light according to Inumuta<ref>''Into the Night''</ref>) | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' | At least At most '''Relativistic''' (Comparable to Ragyo, who uses the power of the Original Life Fiber) | At least At most '''Relativistic'''
'''[[Reactions|Reaction Speed]]:''' '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Comparable to [[Mako Mankanshoku|Mako]], [https://youtu.be/7lXGiUW7iLg?t=51 who can catch money bullets] [https://thecodex.wiki/User:GiverOfThePeace/Kill_La_Kill_calcs#Mako_Gets_Rich at point blank range]<ref>''Ride Like the Wind''</ref>) | At least '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Far superior to Mako) | At least '''Massively Hypersonic''' (Far superior than before) | '''Relativistic''' (Comparable to Sanageyama, who's stated to have the ability to make people think he's moving faster than light according to Inumuta<ref>''Into the Night''</ref>) | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | '''Relativistic''' | At most '''Faster Than Light''' (Comparable to Ragyo, who uses the power of the Original Life Fiber) | At most '''Faster Than Light'''
'''[[Stamina]]:''' '''Superhuman''' (Took a beating from Mako for hours while she was using her Two-Star Goku Uniform. and Ryūko wasn't transformed. Defeated hoards of Goku Uniform fighters in less than a school day. Fought three of the Elite Four in one sitting, traveled around Japan to recover Senketsu and fought several people using his power, including Satsuki, in a day. Fought an army of COVERs on her own with no signs of fatigue. Survived being able to be stabbed, skinned, harmed through organs, and more while recovering)
'''[[Stamina]]:''' '''Superhuman''' (Took a beating from Mako for hours while she was using her Two-Star Goku Uniform. and Ryūko wasn't transformed. Defeated hoards of Goku Uniform fighters in less than a school day. Fought three of the Elite Four in one sitting, traveled around Japan to recover Senketsu and fought several people using his power, including Satsuki, in a day. Fought an army of COVERs on her own with no signs of fatigue. Survived being able to be stabbed, skinned, harmed through organs, and more while recovering)
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'''[[Range]]:''' '''Standard Melee Range''' to '''Extended Melee Range''' to '''Hundreds of Meters''' with her Scissor Blade, '''Higher''' with Fiber Lost, '''Far Higher''' with [[Size Manipulation]]. '''Planetary''' [[Absorption]] as Kisaragi. '''Hundreds of Meters''' with the Rending Scissor Blade
'''[[Range]]:''' '''Standard Melee Range''' to '''Extended Melee Range''' to '''Hundreds of Meters''' with her Scissor Blade, '''Higher''' with Fiber Lost, '''Far Higher''' with [[Size Manipulation]]. '''Planetary''' [[Absorption]] as Kisaragi. '''Hundreds of Meters''' with the Rending Scissor Blade
'''[[Intelligence]]:''' '''Gifted''' (Despite normally being brash, Ryuko is a capable fighter even before realizing she had any power. She was able to defeat the Elite Four due to her nature of being able to adapt and evolve as she fights. Ryuko also seems to be a skilled bike rider)
'''[[Intelligence]]:''' '''[[Gifted Intelligence]]''' (Despite normally being brash, Ryuko is a capable fighter even before realizing she had any power, being capable of adapting quickly and learning how to use moves just after picking them up)
'''[[Knowledge]]:''' At last '''Expert level''' (She was able to defeat the Elite Four due to her nature of being able to adapt and evolve as she fights. Ryuko also seems to be a skilled bike rider)
----
----
==[[Powers and Techniques]]==
==[[Powers and Techniques]]==
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'''Weaknesses:''' Ryūko can be very hotheaded and brash at the start, though she learns to stop this overtime. Senketsu will be weakened and drain too much blood if Ryūko is embarrassed wearing him, however she later overcame this weakness. If Senketsu's Banshi threads are cut, he will be broken down, however he can always regenerate from this. If Ryūko gets too angry, she'll turn into her berserk form that will eventually kill her if she doesn't calm down. Senketsu will be lost if Ryūko absorbs too much Life Fibers in her Kisaragi form.
'''Weaknesses:''' Ryūko can be very hotheaded and brash at the start, though she learns to stop this overtime. Senketsu will be weakened and drain too much blood if Ryūko is embarrassed wearing him, however she later overcame this weakness. If Senketsu's Banshi threads are cut, he will be broken down, however he can always regenerate from this. If Ryūko gets too angry, she'll turn into her berserk form that will eventually kill her if she doesn't calm down. Senketsu will be lost if Ryūko absorbs too much Life Fibers in her Kisaragi form.
==References==
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==Battle Records==
==Battle Records==
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==References==
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[[Category:Anime Characters]]
[[Category:Anime Characters]]
Revision as of 17:14, 25 December 2024
"Mature Content"
This character or verse has mature themes and concepts, thus those of young age are ill-advised to look through these.
“
To hell with your opinion. I’ll take my own path no matter what anyone else says.
„
~ Ryūko
“
I’m not the usual Ryūko Matoi right now. I’m a Ryūko Matoi who is fixated on seeing what she wants almost within reach.
„
~ Ryūko
“
I finally get it now. I need to get naked. Putting on a Kamui means becoming one with you! It means you becoming one with me! That's what it means to master wearing you! Isn't that right, Senketsu?!
„
~ Ryūko after accepting Senketsu
“
"Ingenuity", my ass. It's just fear. You want the power of clothing, but you're afraid of losing your mind. That outfit symbolizes your unwillingness to go all the way. It's completely and utterly shameful.
Ryūko Matoi (Matoi Ryūko) is the main protagonist of Kill la Kill. She transferred to Honnōji Academy searching for the twin of her red Scissor Blade and the person who used the weapon to murder her father, Isshin Matoi.
It is later revealed that Ryūko is the daughter of Sōichirō and Ragyō Kiryūin and the younger sister of Satsuki. It was also revealed that Ryūko had supposedly died after she was born after Ragyō had attempted to fuse her body with Life Fibers, which was declared a failed experiment by Ragyō herself; however, Ragyō's experiment would later be revealed to be a success. Ryūko was later saved by her father, with her father faking her death and raising her under the alias of Isshin Matoi until his death at the hands of Nui Harime. Six months after Isshin's death, Ryūko transferred to Honnōji Academy.
This dropdown contains the synopsis of Ryūko’s story. Read at your own risk as you may be spoiled otherwise!
Early History
Ryūko's mother is initially believed to have died shortly after her birth, and her relationship with her father, Isshin Matoi, was distant and strained. During her early childhood, Ryūko lived in the dorms of Ox Elementary School while her father devoted himself entirely to his research. Lacking parental guidance and subjected to bullying, she developed a rebellious nature, often engaging in fights and even joining a gang.
Six months prior to enrolling at Honnōji Academy, Ryūko received a message from her father and returned home, only to find him fatally wounded with a red Scissor Blade impaled in his chest. In his final moments, Isshin urged her to choose her path: to walk away and live peacefully or to take up the blade and fight in his stead. He assured her that the blade would lead her to his killer. Before Isshin could reveal more, Ryūko caught a glimpse of a shadowy woman wielding the other half of the Scissor Blade. She pursued the mysterious figure but failed to apprehend her. Moments later, an explosive device ignited, engulfing the house in flames.
Ryūko could only watch in anguish as the fire consumed her father. Fueled by a vow of vengeance, she began a journey as a wandering vagrant, relentlessly seeking answers about the killer’s identity and whereabouts.
Episode 1
Ryūko arrives at Honnō City in search of her father’s murderer and enrolls as a transfer student at the academy. Shortly after arriving, she meets Mako Mankanshoku, who becomes her classmate. Mako explains that the academy is controlled by the Student Council, led by its president, Satsuki Kiryūin. Suspecting Satsuki knows something about her father’s death, Ryūko confronts her and reveals the red Scissor Blade. Satsuki’s reaction convinces Ryūko she’s on the right track, but before she can press further, she’s challenged by Takaharu Fukuroda, a council member who overpowers her using his Two-Star Goku Uniform.
Defeated and forced to flee, Ryūko retreats to her old home on the outskirts of the city. Frustrated by her inability to win, she’s unexpectedly dropped into a hidden basement by her homeroom teacher, Aikurō Mikisugi, who had secretly followed her. In the basement, Ryūko’s blood seeps into a mysterious pile of clothes, awakening a sentient sailor uniform created by her father. The uniform, which Ryūko names Senketsu, forcibly bonds with her, granting her incredible strength in exchange for her blood.
With Senketsu’s power, Ryūko returns to the academy and challenges Takaharu again. This time, she destroys his Goku Uniform with her Scissor Blade, rendering him powerless. Ryūko declares her outfit and weapon as mementos from her father and demands Satsuki reveal what she knows. Exhausted from the fight, Ryūko is forced to retreat before she can get any answers.
Episode 2
After retreating from her fight, Ryūko collapsed upon stepping off the tram descending the mountain. She later woke up in the Mankanshoku household, where she reluctantly joined them for dinner, consisting of questionable food. During the evening, Ryūko reflected on her initial encounter with the sentient Kamui, which she had named Senketsu, meaning “Fresh Blood,” when they first bonded.
The following day, Ryūko arrived at school with Mako and was invited to stay with the Mankanshoku family. However, both soon found themselves targeted by the tennis club, led by its newly promoted Two-Star Goku Uniform captain, Omiko. Despite attempting to fight back, Ryūko struggled when she failed to activate Senketsu's powers. She escaped the confrontation by falling into the sewers, clinging to her guitar case as she drifted away with the current.
Upon regaining consciousness, Ryūko discovered she was in the presence of her eccentric homeroom teacher, Aikurō Mikisugi, who revealed more about Senketsu. Ignoring her protests, he extracted some of her blood with a syringe and demonstrated that Senketsu required her blood to unleash its full power. While Ryūko demanded further answers, Mikisugi urged her to focus on defeating Omiko in a rematch and rescuing Mako.
Ryūko returned just in time to save Mako, who was being bombarded by a relentless onslaught of tennis balls. The battle escalated into a bizarre tennis match against Omiko, orchestrated by Satsuki's subordinate, Uzu Sanageyama. Using her Scissor Blade as a makeshift tennis racket, Ryūko managed to overpower Omiko, blasting her away and destroying her Goku Uniform in the process.
Following her victory, Ryūko was unexpectedly forced to face Satsuki in combat. Satsuki's mastery of the blade nearly overwhelmed her, and Senketsu warned Ryūko of her impending collapse due to blood loss. Realizing the danger, Ryūko created a distraction with steam and escaped the battlefield with Mako.
Episode 3
Mako finds a note from Aikurō on her back, leading to a meeting where they discuss Life Fibers. Aikurō explains that Isshin Matoi and the Kiryūin clan possess exclusive knowledge of Life Fibers. Aikurō, formerly an assistant to Isshin, has been spying on Honnōji Academy to uncover more information. Surprisingly, they reveal that Isshin conceptualized the awakened form of the Kamui.
After staying overnight with the Mankanshokus, Ryūko accompanies Mako to school, only to encounter Satsuki. To ensure Mako's safety, Ryūko prepares to face Satsuki, who discloses her ownership of a Kamui named Junketsu, which she has mastered. Although Ryūko fights valiantly, she is overpowered by Satsuki, forcing Senketsu to return to a dormant state to prevent draining her blood. Inspired by Mako's passionate speech, Ryūko understands the significance of donning Senketsu and accepts the revealing form. This newfound acceptance enhances her synchronization with Senketsu, enabling her to engage in a more balanced battle with Satsuki.
As the fight concludes, Ryūko declares her intention to shatter Satsuki's ambitions and expose her role in Isshin Matoi's murder. Satsuki acknowledges the challenge, making Ryūko the target of every club in the school. Ryūko must triumph over each opposing student to secure a rematch with Satsuki. The revelation of Satsuki's involvement in Isshin Matoi's death rests on Ryūko's victory in their next encounter.
Episode 4
Ryūko takes part in Honnōji Academy's yearly "No-Late Day" event, where students must navigate 999 obstacles and arrive at class on time to avoid expulsion. During the event, Ryūko and Mako come across Maiko Ogure, who claims to be injured. Out of kindness, they decide to help her. However, Maiko betrays them and steals Senketsu. Revealing herself as the Trap Department's Head of the Disciplinary Committee, Maiko aims to use Ryūko's Kamui to overthrow Satsuki and control the school.
Maiko tries attacking them but is hindered by Senketsu, allowing Ryūko to reclaim her Kamui. Following the confrontation, Ryūko and Mako discover they were deceived by Maiko's "fake school" trap. Fortunately, they manage to reach their classroom on time by hijacking a cable cart and crashing into the classroom.
Episode 5
The episode introduces a mysterious man with a red mohawk, who takes aim at Ryūko with a rifle-like weapon. However, his plan is disrupted by the gardening club members, who confront him for destroying their flowers. The scene then shifts to Ryūko facing off against the biology club members, who have captured Mako for an experiment. Ryūko successfully defeats them and scolds Mako for her carelessness. Suddenly, Mako is shot with numerous needles by Tsumugu Kinagase, causing Ryūko to panic. Tsumugu reveals that Mako is only unconscious and will recover with renewed energy.
Tsumugu then attacks Ryūko, preventing her from transforming and warning her of their impending fight. The next day, they engage in battle, and despite transforming, Ryūko is overpowered and reverts to her normal form due to exhaustion. Tsumugu urges Ryūko to hand over the Kamui, explaining that it is a deadly parasite. Ryūko refuses and is nearly killed, but Senketsu telepathically threatens Tsumugu, protecting Ryūko and leaving Tsumugu surprised.
Nonon Jakuzure attempts to capture Tsumugu, but he escapes with Ryūko, taking her to Aikurō's house. Ryūko expresses her gratitude to Senketsu for saving her and considers him a friend.
Episode 6
Ryūko confronts Aikurō, demanding to know the connection between him and Tsumugu Kinagase, the man who attacked her. Initially denying any involvement, Aikurō eventually reveals that Tsumugu is a member of Nudist Beach and was sent to test Ryūko's abilities. Unconvinced by his explanation, Ryūko storms off.
At Honnōji Academy's club research laboratory, a massive shipment of Life Fibers arrives, and sewing club president Shirō Iori begins mass-producing Goku uniforms. Athletics club president Uzu Sanageyama requests permission from Satsuki Kiryūin to battle Ryūko. Despite the potential consequences of failure, Uzu assures Satsuki of his superior eyesight.
Ryūko receives a challenge from Uzu for a duel. During the fight, Uzu utilizes his Blade Regalia armor and Higi Tengantsu technique to briefly overpower Ryūko. However, she manages to blind Uzu's visor with a torn piece of Senketsu's cloth, buying time to deliver a decisive blow, resulting in his defeat. Refusing to accept his loss, Uzu asks for a rematch, only to be punished by Ira Gamagōri for his disgraceful performance.
Uzu then meets with Ira Shiori, the sewing club president, and requests to have his eyes sewn shut as penance for relying too heavily on his vision. His dedication impresses Satsuki, and Uzu faces Ryūko once again, seeking vengeance for his current state. Using Shingantsu, an upgraded version of Tengantsu, Uzu relentlessly attacks Ryūko, nearly killing her, but his Goku uniform fails to keep up with his power surge, tearing apart and allowing Ryūko to escape.
Ryūko acknowledges the formidable strength of the Elite Four, recognizing they are not to be underestimated.
Episode 7
Ryūko faces an attack from three former acrobatic club members who have formed their own club to defeat her and raise their star uniform ranking. Mako informs Ryūko that students can rise to two-star status by becoming club presidents and earn a Three Star Goku uniform if they manage to defeat her. Realizing this, Ryūko decides to start her own club to improve her living conditions.
However, overwhelmed by the paperwork, Ryūko appoints Mako as the club president instead. As the club gains prominence, the Mankanshoku family's social status and wealth increase dramatically. Unfortunately, they become consumed by their newfound materialistic desires, deeply upsetting Ryūko.
Feeling betrayed, Ryūko resigns from the Fight Club. Satsuki takes advantage of the rift, offering Mako a Two-Star Goku uniform and challenging her to defeat Ryūko to maintain her newfound social standing. Mako reluctantly agrees, shocking Ryūko.
During their battle, Ryūko initially defends herself but eventually refuses to fight, enduring a brutal beating from Mako until her friend regains her senses. Realizing the mistake she has made, Mako disbands the Fight Club, and the entire Mankanshoku family apologizes to Ryūko for their behavior. Ryūko accepts their apology but warns them not to betray her again.
Episode 8
In this episode, Ryūko decides to share the truth about her past with Mako, taking her to the ruins of her old family home. As they explore the remains, Ryūko begins to reveal the circumstances surrounding her father's tragic death, a series of events that have driven her on her relentless quest for justice and understanding.
Growing up, Ryūko's relationship with her father was complicated and distant, as he chose to send her away to a prestigious boarding school, leaving him to pursue his intense research at their family mansion. This separation inevitably led to Ryūko developing a rebellious streak and becoming somewhat of a delinquent as she grew older. Despite their estrangement, Ryūko never forgot about her father or the love they shared.
One day, Ryūko received an unexpected note from her father, requesting a meeting to discuss some urgent matters. Without hesitation, she rushed to the mansion, only to be confronted with a horrifying sight: her father had been impaled by one half of the mysterious Scissor Blade. With his dying breath, he warned Ryūko of the immense dangers surrounding this weapon and urged her to make a choice. If she desired a peaceful life, she could simply walk away and leave her father's research behind. However, if she wanted to seek justice and continue his work, she must take up the Scissor Blade and use it to hunt down the culprit who wielded the other half of the weapon. Her father revealed that this elusive figure would be the one responsible for his tragic demise.
Overwhelmed with shock and determination, Ryūko noticed a shadowy figure attempting to flee the mansion. Consumed by the need to confront her father's killer, she rushed after them, leaving her father behind, crying out for her to return. As she desperately pursued the figure, the mansion exploded, leaving no trace of the secrets hidden within its walls, nor any hope of reconciliation with her father.
This pivotal event became the catalyst for Ryūko's unwavering resolve to uncover the truth surrounding her father's death and ensure that his life's work was not in vain. Although her bond with her father may have been strained, his final words deeply impacted Ryūko and inspired her to delve deeper into the world of the Scissor Blade and Life Fibers.
Returning to the present, Ryūko and Mako continue their search for any remaining clues in the mansion's basement, where Ryūko first discovered Senketsu. Disappointed to find nothing of note, they decide to head back home but soon find their journey halted when their scooter runs out of gas. Their luck changes when they cross paths with Ira Gamagōri, the formidable chair of Honnōji Academy's Disciplinary Committee and a member of the elite Four. Taking a week off from his duties, Gamagōri kindly offers the girls a ride home.
During their journey, the trio encounters the aggressive Automotive Airsoft Club, led by the fearsome Ryōsuke Todoroki. With their sights set on Gamagōri's prized Three-Star Goku Uniform Shackle Regalia, the club launches a vicious assault. Refusing to be intimidated, Gamagōri expertly defends the girls and swiftly dispatches the attackers, showcasing his incredible strength and combat prowess.
Episode 9
As the looming confrontation with Ira Gamagōri draws ever closer, Ryūko finds herself at a crossroads. Aikurō Mikisugi, ever the cautious ally, pleads with her to withdraw from the match. His warning is dire: she's simply not ready to face off against the raw might of the Elite Four. But Ryūko, undaunted and resolute, refuses to back down. The battle, it seems, is inevitable.
And so, the clash begins. Gamagōri unleashes the devastating power of his Shackle Regalia, launching an onslaught of brutal attacks against himself. With each strike, the energy fuels a fearsome transformation, giving rise to the terrifying Scourge Regalia. The realization hits hard: the Shackle Regalia is more than just a weapon - it's an armor that shields its life fibers from harm. This leaves Ryūko at a severe disadvantage - if she hopes to damage the Shackle Regalia, she must also contend with the ever-strengthening Scourge Regalia.
Despite the overwhelming odds, Ryūko remains undeterred. She presses on, launching a barrage of fierce attacks that push Gamagōri to unleash the full might of the Scourge Regalia. His goal is clear: to mold Ryūko into a subservient model student, stripped of her rebellious spirit and fierce independence.
But Ryūko has an ace up her sleeve. In a daring gambit, Senketsu severs their synchronization, allowing Ryūko to tap into Senketsu's fangs. With surgical precision, she slices through Gamagōri's uniform, carving a path to its vulnerable core. The final blow comes in the form of a devastating new ability - Senketsu Senjin. With a single, decisive strike, she obliterates the uniform from within, claiming victory in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
As the dust settles, the victor is clear. Ryūko has emerged triumphant, leaving Gamagōri defeated and humbled. But there's no time to rest on her laurels - another challenger awaits. Her next opponent is none other than Hōka Inumuta, and Ryūko must steel herself for yet another grueling battle in her quest for the truth.
Episode 10
The Naturals Election finals rage on, as Ryūko faces off against Hōka Inumuta and his formidable Probe Regalia. Inumuta's uniform grants him the ability to analyze Ryūko's fighting abilities, predicting her every move with eerie accuracy. Undeterred, Ryūko pushes herself beyond her limits, attacking with such speed that Inumuta's sensors struggle to keep up.
Realizing he needs a new strategy, Inumuta activates Optical Camouflage, rendering himself invisible. Ryūko finds herself battered by unseen strikes, teetering on the edge of the arena. In a brilliant counterattack, she expands Senketsu's eye, attacking the entire arena at once and leaving Inumuta with nowhere to hide.
With Inumuta immobilized, Ryūko prepares to land the finishing blow. However, in a surprising twist, Inumuta forfeits the match. Explaining that his primary concern is data collection, not victory, he chooses to preserve his uniform, which has collected invaluable data on Senketsu, much to Ryūko's bewilderment.
Next, Ryūko faces the daunting challenge of Nonon Jakuzure and her Symphony Regalia, a colossal war machine that assaults her with immense sonic vibrations and an arsenal of music-themed weaponry. To make matters worse, Nonon transforms her Symphony Regalia into a flying configuration, asserting that the rule against leaving the arena only applies to being knocked out, not flying.
Undeterred, Ryūko ties a thread to her Scissor Blade and uses it to lasso the Symphony Regalia. Anchoring herself with Senketsu's skirt spikes, she begins tossing Nonon around, relying on Senketsu's Life Fiber-infused defenses to withstand the barrage of attacks. However, Nonon turns her attention to the arena itself, aiming to disqualify Ryūko by forcing her to fall.
In a daring move, Ryūko orders Senketsu to reconfigure into the flight-capable Senketsu Shippu, allowing her to remain airborne and evade Nonon's relentless assault. Nonon, infuriated by Ryūko's persistence, resumes her attack, declaring the sky as her domain. As the battle rages on, both fighters push their limits in a desperate bid for victory.
Episode 11
Ryūko's agile Senketsu Shippu gives her a significant advantage in the aerial battle against Nonon, allowing her to destroy the Symphony Regalia Presto. Grounded and vulnerable, Nonon endures a relentless assault from Ryūko, who unleashes her devastating finishing move. However, Ryūko's inability to absorb the Life Fibers in Nonon's uniform gives her opponent a brief reprieve and the chance to unveil her final form: Symphony Regalia Da Capo.
Nonon begins blasting Beethoven's Fifth Symphony from her helmet, the deafening volume disrupting the link between Ryūko and Senketsu, hindering their ability to concentrate. Sanageyama, eager to be the one to defeat Ryūko, yells out words of encouragement, prompting Nonon to question his loyalty. This distraction grants Ryūko the opportunity to recover and counteract Nonon's sonic assault by transforming its frequency into a pure tone that syncs with her heartbeat.
With their connection restored, Ryūko and Senketsu channel the amplified heartbeat back towards Nonon, successfully overwhelming and defeating her. Ryūko's victory over Nonon leaves only one more opponent standing in her way - Sanageyama. However, before their battle can commence, an unexpected figure lands in the arena between them, declaring herself as Ryūko's next challenger.
The mysterious newcomer is revealed to be Nui Harime, the Grand Couturier of Revocs Corporation and a close ally of Ragyō Kiryūin. Sanageyama attempts to intervene, only to be effortlessly thwarted by Nui, who destroys his Blade Regalia Mk 2 in a single move by extracting its Banshi Thread. As Ryūko prepares to face off against Nui, the cunning Grand Couturier unveils the other half of the Scissor Blade, exposing herself as the ruthless killer of Ryūko's father, Isshin Matoi.
This shocking revelation fuels Ryūko's rage, and she charges towards Nui, consumed by her desire for vengeance and the pursuit of truth. With tensions at an all-time high and the stakes higher than ever before, the stage is set for an epic showdown between Ryūko and the enigmatic Nui Harime.
Episode 12
Driven by fury upon learning that Nui Harime was her father's killer, Ryūko launches a relentless barrage of attacks on her. However, Nui effortlessly blocks each strike, further enraging Ryūko. As the battle rages, Nui reveals that she was sent by a "friend" to retrieve Isshin's research - the Rending Scissors, a weapon capable of cutting and destroying Life Fibers. During their encounter, Isshin had managed to slash Nui's left eye before she ultimately overpowered him.
Overwhelmed by rage and the desire for revenge, Ryūko loses control, causing Senketsu to transform into a monstrous form. Witnessing this, Satsuki Kiryūin intervenes, transforming into her own Kamui, Junketsu. As the two clash, the Honnōji Academy suffers severe damage.
Meanwhile, Mako Mankanshoku steps in, reminding Ryūko of the precious memories they share, successfully calming her down. Ryūko reverts to her normal form but soon collapses from exhaustion.
In the aftermath of the battle, Satsuki bans Nui from Honnōji Academy and asserts that Ryūko and Senketsu are under her protection. Nui seemingly agrees and withdraws.
Days later, as Honnōji Academy undergoes repairs, Ryūko confronts Satsuki. Satsuki acknowledges that she ordered Nui to retrieve the Rending Scissors from Isshin and implies that she holds the answers Ryūko seeks. When Ryūko attempts to challenge her, Satsuki swiftly incapacitates her, asserting that Ryūko has not fully recovered from her previous battle.
Satsuki then announces the Tri-Cities Raid Trip - an operation to conquer the remaining schools in Japan that are not under her control. With the Elite Four at her side, Satsuki prepares to embark on this ambitious campaign, further escalating the tensions between Honnōji Academy and its adversaries.
Episode 13
Torn between her reluctance to fight and the allure of a free trip, Mako struggles to decide whether to join the field trip. Aikurō Mikisugi inquires about Ryūko's well-being, and Mako reveals that Ryūko hasn't worn Senketsu since recovering. They encounter Shinjirō Nagita, a member of the banned Newspaper Club, who urges Ryūko to don Senketsu and fight for a cause. Unmoved, Ryūko dismisses him, but Mako is forced to participate in the Raid Trip as punishment for distributing Nagita's outlawed newspaper.
When the Disciplinary Committee pursues Nagita, they end up at the Mankanshoku residence, where Ryūko resides. The ensuing chaos leads to Barazō Mankanshoku being knocked out, angering Ryūko. With Senketsu's encouragement, she puts on her Kamui once again and rescues Nagita from the Disciplinary Committee puppets he controlled to manipulate Ryūko.
Nagita's true identity is revealed as Nui Harime, who challenges Ryūko to demonstrate the power she draws from Senketsu. Fearful of losing control, Ryūko holds back, allowing Nui to gain the upper hand. Nui cuts Senketsu into pieces but is stopped by Satsuki before she can finish off Ryūko.
Aikurō Mikisugi discovers that Ryūko has managed to hold onto a single piece of Senketsu, preserving his consciousness. Satsuki instructs Shirō Iori to distribute the remaining pieces of Senketsu among students on the Raid Trip. Episode 14
Ryūko awakens in Mikisugi's home, learning of Senketsu's survival within the scarf she clung to. Determined to restore her friend, Ryūko heads towards the Kansai region, where Satsuki has initiated the Tri-City Schools Raid Trip. Ryūko disrupts the Elite Four's attacks on the main schools, reclaiming the scraps given to students to increase their power.
Reuniting with Mako in Ōsaka, Ryūko gathers nearly all of Senketsu's pieces. Senketsu marvels at Ryūko's ability to defeat Kamui-enhanced students without transforming, with Mako attributing her success to her determination to bring Senketsu back. With the final piece in Satsuki's possession, Ryūko readies herself for a climactic confrontation with her ultimate adversary.
Episode 15
Ryūko confronts Satsuki as she defeats Kaneo Takarada, engaging in a battle for the final piece of Senketsu, the Seki Tekkō. The scene intensifies as Nudist Beach arrives in mechs similar to Takarada's Dōtonbori Robo. Aikurō Mikisugi reveals his true identity to the Student Council, only to discover that they were already aware of Nudist Beach's existence and intentions.
The Elite Four transform into their advanced uniforms and clash with Nudist Beach. Meanwhile, Ryūko remarkably transforms without the final piece, ultimately seizing the Seki Tekkō from Satsuki. With Senketsu restored, Ryūko presents a formidable challenge, asserting that she now fights to protect her friends, vowing to stop Satsuki's destructive ambition.
Their intense battle culminates in a draw as they stand with blades at each other's necks. Satsuki agrees to call off the battle and return to Honnōji Academy with the students. Nonon Jakuzure, however, destroys the Nudist Beach base before their departure.
Gazing upon the ruined city, Ryūko, Mako Mankanshoku, Aikurō, and Tsumugu Kinagase reflect on the events that transpired. Aikurō informs Ryūko that the time has come for her to learn the truth about her father. Episode 16
Mikisugi leads Ryūko to an intact section of the Nudist Beach base, accompanied by Mako, to reveal everything about Life Fibers and Isshin Matoi's mission. At the beach, Mikisugi explains that Life Fibers originated from outer space, accelerating humanity's development to conquer and cover the planet with Life Fibers.
Senketsu is shaken by the revelation of his true nature. Mikisugi continues, explaining that Isshin Matoi created the Kamui specifically for Ryūko due to her exceptional Life Fiber tolerance. Isshin's ultimate goal was for Ryūko to foil the Kiryūin's plans.
Distraught by the notion of Senketsu being treated as merely a weapon, Ryūko removes her uniform, refusing to let him harm his own kind. Perceiving Ryūko and Senketsu as no longer useful, Tsumugu prepares to eliminate them.
Episode 17
Ryūko's fate hangs in the balance as Tsumugu prepares to eliminate her and Senketsu. In a timely intervention, Mako persuades Ryūko to put Senketsu back on, effectively de-escalating the situation. Tsumugu steps back, allowing the group to recover from the tense moment.
Later, Ryūko and Senketsu discuss the recent revelations while observing Tsumugu practicing combat. Ryūko inquires about Tsumugu's unwavering intensity, and Aikurō Mikisugi shares the tragic story of Tsumugu's sister, Kinue Kinagase. As Isshin Matoi's top assistant, Kinue tragically died during a Life Fiber outfit experiment, leaving Tsumugu with her final wish to continue the research. Matoi honored Kinue's wish, ultimately creating Senketsu using a combination of his Life Fibers and DNA from Ryūko's nervous system. Shocked by this revelation, Ryūko questions the reasoning behind Matoi's decision, to which Mikisugi replies that it was to ensure her safety.
Arriving at The Great Culture and Sport Festival, Ragyō initiates the Life Fibers' consumption of their wearers. Ryūko, Mako, and the others leap into action, arriving at the stadium aboard Mikisugi's Dōtonbori Robo. As they navigate their way to Ragyō, a sudden blade pierces through her chest, exposing the attack as Satsuki's doing. Satsuki declares her defiance against the Life Fibers and reveals that Honnōji Academy was founded to defeat Ragyō.
Epsiode 18
In a shocking turn of events, Satsuki confronts Ragyō, revealing her longstanding intention to rebel against her mother. Satsuki urges the audience watching the broadcast of The Great Culture and Sport Festival to burn their Revocs clothing in defiance. As the Elite Four engage Nui Harime, Satsuki prepares to finish off Ragyō.
Satsuki reminisces about her past, sharing how her father, Soichiro Kiryūin, disclosed Ragyō's plans to her. She details the history of Junketsu as her destined wedding dress and explains that Ragyō married Soichiro to exploit his skills, leading to experimentation on Satsuki as a child. However, Satsuki's inability to fuse with Life Fibers compelled Ragyō to experiment on her newborn daughter instead. Believing the experiment had failed, Ragyō disposed of the child, which led Soichiro to turn against her and rescue their younger daughter.
Soichiro entrusted the secret plans, Junketsu, and the role of savior to Satsuki. Fleeing from the Kiryūin Manor, he faked his death to escape Takiji Kuroido's assassination attempt, changing his identity to Isshin Matoi. Ragyō's Life Fiber infusion allows her to heal from Satsuki's attack, prompting Satsuki's second attempt to eliminate her.
However, Rei Hōōmaru interferes, allowing Ragyō to escape and utilize Mind Stitching on Honnōji Academy students, even controlling Ryūko. Satsuki tries to break the mind control, and Ryūko manages to overcome it. Ryūko then battles Nui while Satsuki faces Ragyō. Ryūko's Life Fiber Synchronization empowers her against Nui as Satsuki struggles against Ragyō.
Ragyō regenerates after Satsuki's decapitation attempt and strips Satsuki of Junketsu, donning it herself. Impressed by Ryūko's synchronization with Senketsu, Ragyō reveals that Ryūko is her second daughter, shocking everyone present.
Episode 19
In the aftermath of Ragyō's shocking revelation that Ryūko is her long-lost second daughter, Ryūko severs Ragyō's hand and reinserts her heart. Ragyō asserts that the strong compatibility with Life Fibers is hereditary, further emphasizing their connection. As chaos ensues, Mako becomes trapped within the COVERS while attempting to evacuate citizens from the stadium. Satsuki initiates the self-destruct sequence at Ragyō Stadium as a last resort.
A month passes, with Ryūko lying comatose at the Nudist Beach base in Ōsaka. Ragyō deploys COVERS to attack the city, prompting Gamagōri to test a new weapon that extracts humans from the COVERS. With Guts' help, Gamagōri successfully rescues Mako. The remaining COVERS create a cacophony that unexpectedly awakens Ryūko, who swiftly eliminates them with her Scissor Blade. Despite her successful defense of the city, Ryūko refuses to wear Senketsu, expressing her desire to distance herself from him and the events that have transpired.
Episode 20
Ryūko's resentment towards Senketsu becomes evident, prompting Mako to express her concern that Ryūko has lost touch with her true self. Ryūko admits that discovering the truth about her parents and her Life Fiber-infused body has changed her. Their conversation is interrupted by Nui Harime and Ragyō Kiryūin, appearing as Life Fiber-controlled body doubles.
Nui and Ragyō invite Ryūko to face them at Honnōji Academy. Despite Aikurō Mikisugi's warning about the trap, Ryūko ignores him and destroys his DTR. Expressing her frustration at being kept in the dark, she leaves for Honnōji Academy on a motorcycle.
Upon arrival, Ryūko battles Nui, eventually outmaneuvering her and striking her heart with the Scissor Blades. Nui feigns injury before revealing her Life Fiber-infused body and regeneration abilities. She discloses that Ragyō created her in an artificial uterus as part of her ongoing experiments to create a Life Fiber-infused human, following Ryūko's supposed death as a baby. Ryūko is then restrained by Nui with Life Fibers and forced to wear Junketsu, with her memories altered to ensure her loyalty to Ragyō.
Meanwhile, Satsuki, having escaped from Honnōji Academy amid the chaos, relaxes on the Naked Sun 1 with a cup of tea made by Mitsuzō. The ship's radars detect an incoming object, which crashes onto the deck, revealing a brainwashed Ryūko wearing Junketsu. Tsumugu tries to combat her in an upgraded DTR but is swiftly defeated. As Ryūko prepares to kill Tsumugu, Satsuki appears wearing Senketsu and challenges her to a fight.
Episode 21
Ragyō and Nui's brainwashing of Ryūko succeeds as she undergoes a transformation with Junketsu. A significant revelation surfaces, unveiling that Nui's Life Fibers impede her ability to draw power from Kamuis. Consequently, this limitation drives her decision to create them instead. Meanwhile, Ragyō embarks on a mission to REVOCS Corporation, where the Original Life Fiber absorbs the officials, ultimately morphing into a colossal airship composed entirely of Life Fibers.
A formidable clash unfolds between Ryūko and Satsuki. Throughout their intense duel, Satsuki skillfully employs the distinct forms of Senketsu, namely Senjin and Shippu. However, the overwhelming might of Ryūko prevails, resulting in her separating Senketsu from Satsuki. The Elite Four make a valiant effort to extricate Ryūko from Junketsu. Yet, they stumble upon a distressing piece of information – attempting to detach Junketsu could potentially prove fatal for Ryūko. Nui affirms this revelation, disclosing that Junketsu has been intricately stitched onto Ryūko.
Mako endeavors to reach out to her friend Ryūko, inadvertently provoking Nui to launch an assault on her. In a timely intervention, Senketsu rescues Mako by compelling her to wear him. This sequence of events paves the way for Satsuki's confrontation with Nui. During the heat of their battle, Satsuki discerns that their adversaries harbor doubts regarding Ryūko's loyalty. In a calculated move, the Elite Four intercede, providing Satsuki with a strategic opening to slice through Junketsu. Seizing the opportunity, Mako hurls Senketsu into the breach, successfully liberating Ryūko with the assistance of Mako and Senketsu. Together, they manage to restore Ryūko's senses.
Nui, presuming their endeavor has failed, implores Ryūko to aid in the ship's destruction. Before Ryūko can react, she seizes the other half of the Scissor Blade and impales Nui, hurling her through the air. In a decisive act, Ryūko forcefully removes Junketsu from her body, enduring substantial blood loss in the process. Her unwavering resolve to wear Senketsu once again drives her actions.
Episode 22
Ryūko miraculously survives ripping Junketsu off her body, and reunites with Senketsu to face off against Nui Harime. In the ensuing battle, Ryūko reclaims both Scissor Blades and severs Nui's arms. Initially, Nui feigns pain and anger but soon experiences genuine panic as Ryūko destroys the detached limbs using the Scissor Blades. An infuriated Nui is rescued by Rei Hōōmaru, much to Nui's chagrin. Meanwhile, Ryūko's allies deal with the COVERS, extracting the School Club presidents and collecting the remaining Life Fibers.
Following the skirmish, Ryūko challenges Satsuki Kiryūin to a full-force punch to determine if she is worthy of joining forces against Ragyō. Satsuki accepts, but the Elite Four block Ryūko's attempts, asserting their dedication to protecting Satsuki. This display of loyalty helps Ryūko recognize the similarities between Satsuki's relationship with her team and her own bond with Mako and Senketsu. Ryūko ultimately welcomes Satsuki as an ally in their impending battle against Ragyō.
With their combined forces, they develop a strategy to thwart Ragyō's plan of transporting the Original Life Fiber to Honnōji Academy and activating a signal for all other Life Fibers to consume the planet. However, their preparations are disrupted by a sudden missile attack. Ryūko and Satsuki, now referred to as "Lady Ryūko" by Mitsuzō Soroi, join forces to protect the ship. Satsuki unveils a modified Junketsu infused with Life Fibers from Senketsu, transforming it into a new flight-capable form called Senketsu Senpu. Together with Ryūko in Senketsu Shippu, the sisters successfully defend the ship from the incoming missiles. As a colossal COVER emerges from the ocean, Mako reappears, donning her restored 2 Star Goku Uniform, ready to confront the new threat.
Episode 23
With Mako defending the Naked Sun, Ryūko and Satsuki proceed to confront Ragyō. However, Ragyō reveals her own dual needle blades, modeled after the Bakuzan and Rending Scissors, and effortlessly overwhelms her daughters. As Satsuki steps onto the Original Life Fiber, Ragyō kicks her off, stating that it's not meant to be touched directly. She then directs the Life Fiber toward the Naked Sun to absorb its crew.
Ryūko devises a plan and signals it to Satsuki. Ryūko charges at Ragyō, seemingly performing a finishing move, but Ragyō impales and slices her in half, throwing her into the sea. Distraught, Mako witnesses the scene but is soon caught off guard by more COVERS. Fortunately, Shirō Iori drops the Elite Four's completed Three Star Goku Uniforms, and they transform into their Ultimate Battle Regalia, executing the combination special move "Utter Victory" to defeat all the COVERS simultaneously.
Satsuki continues battling Ragyō, fueled by rage over Ryūko's apparent demise. However, Ragyō disarms Satsuki, claiming her powers and "makeshift Kamui" can't match hers due to lacking Life Fiber infusion. Undeterred, Satsuki asserts that Ragyō will pay for underestimating her. Suddenly, Ryūko emerges from the sea, having regenerated her Life Fibers underwater, and attacks the Original Life Fiber, shocking Ragyō.
Satsuki seizes the opportunity to free herself from Ragyō's grasp, revealing that Ryūko's sacrifice was a strategic move to provide an opening. Ryūko reaches the Life Fiber's core and prepares to destroy it but struggles to cut through it. Meanwhile, Aikurō converts the Naked Sun into a seam ripper-like form and charges toward the Original Life Fiber. The Elite Four assist Satsuki in fighting Ragyō, while Mako manually powers the ship's turbine, granting it enough speed to reach the core.
Upon seeing Mako and the Naked Sun, Ryūko gains renewed determination and manages to slice through the Life Fiber. The Naked Sun rams into Honnōji Academy, successfully destroying the Original Life Fiber and infuriating Ragyō, who retreats while claiming it's not over yet. The team takes a brief respite, enjoying Mitsuzō Soroi's tea before Ryūko and Satsuki brace themselves for the final battle.
In the post-credits scene, Nui presents the completed Shinra-Kōketsu to Ragyō, who dons it in preparation to eliminate her daughters.
Personality
Fierce and Stubborn: Ryūko is known for her fierce determination and stubborn nature, never backing down from a fight, no matter the odds. She is fearless, as demonstrated by her bold confrontation with Satsuki Kiryūin and her willingness to fight Takaharu Fukuroda, even when outmatched. Ryūko’s refusal to yield is one of her defining traits, which is evident in her dogged pursuit of her father's killer.
Embarrassed but Resolute: Despite her tough exterior, Ryūko is not entirely devoid of self-consciousness. She feels embarrassed when forced to fight in Senketsu’s alternate form, which is more revealing, but she overcomes this discomfort, showing that she’s willing to fight to the death when necessary. This highlights her complex nature, balancing between fierce bravery and vulnerability.
Occasionally Warm and Polite: While most often seen as fierce, Ryūko has moments of calmness, warmth, and politeness. She is particularly fond of the Mankanshoku family, admiring the kindness of Mako’s mother and enjoying family dinners, something she missed out on due to her own family’s tragic past. Her interactions with others can be surprisingly gentle and grateful, especially when she feels flattered or treated with kindness.
Sharp and Self-Aware: Ryūko is not one to back down from a fight, but she also shows a sharp wit. She is aware of the absurdity in certain situations, like when she critiques the attempts of a street punk to mug her or when she assesses the ridiculousness of an opponent. Her ability to see through such antics shows a level of self-awareness and practicality, as she often avoids fighting those who can’t fight back.
Sadistic and Wild Under Mind Control: When brainwashed by Ragyō, Ryūko’s personality takes a darker turn, becoming sadistic and destructive. She wreaks havoc without reason, showing a complete departure from her usual self. However, after being freed, she returns to her more grounded personality, though she is somewhat calmer and more mature. This shift also allows her to make peace with Satsuki, though she still struggles with recognizing her as her sister.
Reconciled but Conflicted: By the end of her journey, Ryūko becomes more mature and capable of working alongside Satsuki, recognizing her as a comrade in arms. Despite this, Ryūko has trouble fully embracing Satsuki as a sister, though a moment of vulnerability when Satsuki catches her and welcomes her home shows Ryūko’s growing emotional acceptance, as she finally calls her "sis."
Appearance
Looks: Ryūko is a slender, seventeen-year-old girl of medium height, characterized by her striking dark-blue hair that reaches just past her shoulders. The hair is often styled with a distinct left-swept red highlight in her bangs, giving her a bold and rebellious appearance. Her blue eyes stand out due to their unusual gear-like pupils, which feature eight grooves around the edges, adding a mechanical quality to her gaze. Her youthful face carries an expression that fluctuates between determination and intensity, reflecting her strong-willed personality.
Regular Clothes: Initially, Ryūko dresses in a simple, yet functional outfit suited for her active lifestyle. She wears a white, short-sleeved shirt with a red ribbon tie at the collar, paired with a black miniskirt that ends mid-thigh. Her feet are clad in white sneakers that complement her straightforward style. Over her shirt, she dons a black-and-white jacket with rolled-up sleeves, giving her a casual, carefree look. In her childhood, her attire was more innocent, consisting of a red collared shirt and a white skirt, matched with white shoes, signaling her earlier years of innocence and simplicity before her journey began.
Special Clothes: As Ryūko embarks on her quest, her regular clothes are replaced by Senketsu, a living, highly advanced sailor uniform made of Life Fibers. Senketsu’s upper body resembles a crop top with mid-length sleeves, exposing her midriff in a bold fashion. The sailor-style collar is marked by red stripes and is secured with a multicolored scarf, which also serves as Senketsu’s left "eye." His right eye, however, is hidden beneath a black eyepatch, which is scarred with an X-shaped mark, possibly referencing Ryūko’s father’s own eyepatch. The uniform’s lower section, representing Senketsu's lower jaw, is a skirt that is held up by suspenders attached to a belt, leaving her torso and midriff exposed. Ryūko’s appearance is further enhanced by the addition of the Nihongo, a red, finger-less glove worn on her left hand, which contains a built-in syringe to draw blood that she uses to feed Senketsu.
Relationships
Senketsu
Initially, Ryūko felt a sense of discomfort and embarrassment when wearing Senketsu, particularly due to the revealing nature of his transformed appearance. However, over time, she comes to realize that in order to fully unlock Senketsu's potential, she must embrace him without hesitation and wear him confidently. Her feelings evolve as she grows to deeply care for Senketsu, considering him not just a tool, but a cherished companion. In fact, she becomes so protective of him that she expresses she would fight to the death to keep him, saying they’d have to pry him from her "cold, dead fingers" if they ever tried to take him away. Ryūko also shows concern when Mako's mother mishandles Senketsu during a rough wash, highlighting her growing attachment. At one point, she even swore off wearing Senketsu, overwhelmed by the belief that she herself had become a monster due to her connection with Life Fibers. However, after gaining clarity and distancing herself from Junketsu, Ryūko's bond with Senketsu is rekindled, and she embraces him once again, fully accepting their shared strength.
Aikurō Mikisugi
Although Ryūko doesn’t fully trust Aikurō Mikisugi at first, his actions show a consistent desire to help her uncover the truth behind her father's mysterious death. He is always keeping a watchful eye over her, carefully observing her battles and standing ready to intervene should something go awry. Aikurō is particularly concerned about the rapid evolution of Senketsu and often finds himself conflicted when it comes to making difficult decisions regarding Ryūko’s safety. His attempts to impress Ryūko with his well-maintained physique often leave her flustered and uncomfortable, though he seems oblivious to her discomfort. Aikurō's hesitation is also notable when it comes to the idea of eliminating Ryūko, even when Tsumugu Kinagase suggests it as a possibility. This is most apparent when Ryūko loses control and is overtaken by her Kamui, yet Aikurō hesitates to shoot her, instead alerting her berserk form to his presence, showing his reluctance to harm her even in the most dire of circumstances.
When Ryūko first entered the academy, she was somewhat put off by Mako’s intense and almost overwhelming attachment to her. Mako’s exuberance and affection were initially a bit much for Ryūko to handle, and she felt somewhat uncomfortable with the situation. However, as time passed, the two developed a strong, unshakeable bond, growing to care deeply for each other. Their friendship blossomed, and Mako quickly became one of Ryūko’s most steadfast supporters, cheering her on through every fight and offering unwavering encouragement. Senketsu himself even recognizes Mako as the key to helping Ryūko relax and regain her focus. Before Ryūko’s final battle, Mako asks her on a date, and Ryūko holds onto that promise as a source of motivation to keep fighting. In the end, they share that date, accompanied by Satsuki, as the credits roll, showing just how far their bond has come since their first meeting.
Satsuki Kiryūin
At the start of their relationship, Ryūko and Satsuki harbored an intense mutual dislike, mainly due to the fact that Satsuki kept vital information about her father's death from Ryūko. This tension reached its peak when Ryūko discovered Satsuki’s apparent disregard for the truth and felt betrayed. However, after their intense confrontation in Osaka, both women began to gain a deeper understanding of one another, and their hatred started to shift into a reluctant respect. This evolution was further challenged when, in episode 17, Satsuki revealed her true motivations: she had staged a coup behind her mother’s back to seek revenge for her father and her baby sister, whom she believed had been disposed of after a failed experiment to merge her with Life Fibers. When Ryūko learns that she is actually that sister, having survived the experiment and fused with Life Fibers, the revelation deepens their connection. By episode 22, Ryūko and Satsuki come to terms with one another and ultimately join forces to defeat Ragyō and the original Life Fiber. In the end, their animosity gives way to a deep, mutual understanding, and they fully accept each other as sisters, solidifying a bond that is heartwarming and poignant, much to the surprise and delight of those around them.
Uzu Sanageyama
Sanageyama's initial rivalry with Ryūko stemmed from her constant victories over the various sports clubs he managed. Confident in his abilities, he believed his Tengantsu would be enough to defeat her and was the first member of the Elite Four to openly challenge Ryūko. However, his overconfidence led to his downfall when a tactic that deprived him of his Tengantsu resulted in his crushing defeat and public humiliation. Eager to restore his pride and defeat Ryūko, Sanageyama took extreme measures, sewing his eyes shut to enhance his strength for their next confrontation. Despite his enhanced abilities, the overheating of his uniform prevented him from finishing the battle, allowing Ryūko to escape and leaving him in disgrace once again. Though Satsuki reassured him, Sanageyama remained determined to finish their fight at the Naturals Election, but he was thwarted by Nui's interference. By that point, however, he had come to respect Ryūko, calling her "the woman who took his eyes (Tengantsu) and gave him the world (Shingantsu)."
Nui Harime
Ryūko harbors an intense and deep-seated hatred for Nui, primarily because Nui is responsible for the death of her father. This animosity causes Ryūko to lose control of her emotions, to the point where it triggers Senketsu to go Berserk in an uncontrollable rage. In Episode 13, Ryūko's anger turns to fear at the prospect of encountering Nui again, dreading the possibility of losing herself in another violent rampage, which could end in her death. However, by Episode 22, after being freed from Nui's manipulation, Ryūko's fury shifts into a more composed and calculated form of hatred. She cuts off Nui’s arms and absorbs the Life Fibers within them, causing Nui to lose her trademark cutesy demeanor. This marks a significant turning point, with Nui vowing revenge and Ryūko's former hatred now reduced to a simmering annoyance, which only serves to further enrage Nui, as she had once thrived on the anger Ryūko directed toward her.
Ragyō Kiryūin
Ragyō Kiryūin, the head of the Revocs Corporation and Satsuki’s mother, initially draws Ryūko’s scorn when they meet in Episode 17. Ryūko mocks her for her arrogance and self-congratulatory attitude. However, her disdain turns into something much more intense when she discovers the horrifying truth: Ragyō is not just an enemy, but her own mother, and she had fused Ryūko with Life Fibers as an infant, causing the pain and torment that shaped her life. After Ragyō's defeat, Ryūko, despite the overwhelming betrayal, shows a moment of sympathy, attempting to convince Ragyō to surrender peacefully. However, Ragyō rejects this offer, preferring instead to pull out her own heart and take her life rather than return to Earth with Ryūko. This tragic choice highlights the deep, irreconcilable rift between them.
Junketsu
In Episode 20, Ryūko falls victim to a trap set by Ragyō and is forced to wear Junketsu, the Kamui once worn by Satsuki. While under Junketsu’s influence, Ryūko’s personality undergoes a drastic change: she becomes bloodthirsty and battle-obsessed, turning against her friends and allies. Her strength and speed are also amplified, making her a dangerous opponent. However, once the mental control is lifted, Ryūko is filled with disgust and fury at having been manipulated into wearing Junketsu. Overcome with revulsion, she immediately tears it off, horrified by the loss of her own agency and the role Junketsu played in her descent into madness.
Protection Level:Cosmic Protector (Protected the world from the Original Life Fiber, who traveled across the universe and destroying everything[1])
Codex Statistics
Key:Base (Early Series) | Pre-Synchronization | Full Synchronization (Episodes 3-8) | Full Synchronization (Episodes 9-12) | Berserk | Senketsu Restored | Junketsu | Final Synchronization | Kisaragi | Graduation
Tier:9-B | Low 8-C | 7-C | At least 7-C | At least 7-C | At least 7-C | At least 7-C | At least 7-C | 5-B, Far Higher with Absorption | At least 7-C, 5-B with the Rending Scissors
Durability:Wall level (Can survive attacks from two alligators[25]) | Small Building level (Should be superior to Omiko, who survived the initial crack[26]) | Town level (Took a hit from Satsuki[27]) | At least Town level (Stronger than before) | At least Town level (Comparable to her previous key) | At least Town level (Far stronger than before) | At least Town level (Comparable to Satsuki) | At least Town level (Far stronger than before) | Planet level (Far superior to the S.S. Naked Sun) | At least Town level (Comparable to the Elite Four)
Striking Strength:Wall Class | Small Building Class | Town Class | At least Town Class | At least Town Class | At least Town Class | At least Town Class | At least Town Class | Planet Class, Far Higher with Absorption | At least Town Class
Travel Speed:Superhuman (Can run up walls[31]. Comparable to Mako) | At least Superhuman (Far faster than before) | At least Supersonic (Can outrun Tsumugu's gun)[32] | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | At most Faster Than Light (Comparable to the Original Life Fiber, which were stated to travel across the universe[33]) | At most Faster Than Light
Attack Speed:Massively Hypersonic (Comparable to Mako) | At least Massively Hypersonic (Far superior to Mako) | At least Massively Hypersonic (Far superior than before) | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | At most Faster Than Light (Comparable to Ragyo, who uses the power of the Original Life Fiber) | At most Faster Than Light
Reaction Speed:Massively Hypersonic (Comparable to Mako, who can catch money bulletsat point blank range[34]) | At least Massively Hypersonic (Far superior to Mako) | At least Massively Hypersonic (Far superior than before) | Relativistic (Comparable to Sanageyama, who's stated to have the ability to make people think he's moving faster than light according to Inumuta[35]) | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | At most Faster Than Light (Comparable to Ragyo, who uses the power of the Original Life Fiber) | At most Faster Than Light
Stamina:Superhuman (Took a beating from Mako for hours while she was using her Two-Star Goku Uniform. and Ryūko wasn't transformed. Defeated hoards of Goku Uniform fighters in less than a school day. Fought three of the Elite Four in one sitting, traveled around Japan to recover Senketsu and fought several people using his power, including Satsuki, in a day. Fought an army of COVERs on her own with no signs of fatigue. Survived being able to be stabbed, skinned, harmed through organs, and more while recovering)
Range:Standard Melee Range to Extended Melee Range to Hundreds of Meters with her Scissor Blade, Higher with Fiber Lost, Far Higher with Size Manipulation. PlanetaryAbsorption as Kisaragi. Hundreds of Meters with the Rending Scissor Blade
Intelligence:Gifted Intelligence (Despite normally being brash, Ryuko is a capable fighter even before realizing she had any power, being capable of adapting quickly and learning how to use moves just after picking them up)
Knowledge: At last Expert level (She was able to defeat the Elite Four due to her nature of being able to adapt and evolve as she fights. Ryuko also seems to be a skilled bike rider)
Resistance to Regeneration Negation (High-Mid; Senketsu can survive hits from the Scissor Blades and still regenerate, despite the blades being made to bypass Life Fibers)
Resistance to Paralysis Inducement (Can move after being pierced with Tsumugu's needles, which can completely paralyse a person from just one needle[98]), Sound Manipulation & Vibration Manipulation (Survived being hit by loud sound waves created by Nonon, which vibrates her body to inflict damage[99]), Heat Manipulation (Can withstand her own blood boiling, which was able to melt through large stone[100])
Same as before on a greater scale, Enhanced Regeneration (Her regeneration works at a much faster pace[101]), Limited Mind Manipulation (After absorbing Shinra Koketsu's Absolute Domination, Ryūko was able to control all Life Fibers within the planet[102]). Enhanced Resistance to Pain (Ryūko can endure many stabs without showing any signs of pain[103])
Senketsu (Episodes 1-24): Senketsu is a Kamui created by Isshin Matoi, who is later revealed to be Sōichirō Kiryūin, and is the deuteragonist of Kill la Kill. Appearing as a sentient sailor uniform, he was found by his creator's daughter, Ryūko Matoi, becoming her primary ally in her battle against Satsuki Kiryūin and, later, Ragyō Kiryūin and COVERS. As a Kamui, when fed with blood, Senketsu has the ability to change into very revealing armor that grants Ryūko immense power. Initially, the extent of power was limited and the blood drain was a constant problem due to Ryūko's embarrassment of her appearance, but after she comes to terms with it, they were able to use Life Fiber Synchronization to achieve the full power of a Kamui while minimizing the blood drain. In addition, although very skimpy in appearance, Kamui are implied to "become the wearer's skin". Senketsu is "activated" when Ryūko uses the Seki-Tekko to draw blood. A needle draws out a set amount of blood and allows her to use Senketsu in his battle form.
Scissor Blade (Episodes 1-21): The Scissor Blades, also known as the Rending Scissors when combined, are a giant pair of scissors developed by Isshin Matoi specifically for severing Life Fibers. Divided into two weapons around the time of Dr. Matoi's death; one half going to his daughter Ryūko; and the other to his killer, Nui Harime. The scissor blades are made from hardened Life Fibers so this makes the Scissor Blades the only weapons (beside Satsuki Kiryūin's Bakuzan) that are capable of cutting through the Goku Uniforms and Kamui's (except for Ragyō Kiryūin's Shinra-Kōketsu, which is also made of hardened Life Fibers). Ryūko owns the red half of the Scissor Blade. The crescent-shaped hilt can extend into a longer two handed sword, known as Decapitation Mode. Ryūko's signature finishing move is Fiber Lost, a long-range forward thrust that completely destroys a Goku Uniform, allowing her to absorb it’s Life Fibers. The red Scissor Blade also displays the ability to change its size, going from a weapon that is nearly as tall as Ryūko to a trinket barely any larger than a normal set of scissors. Ryūko usually keeps the blade in its smaller form when not in a combat situation, but also owns a metal guitar case to carry her weapon around.
Rending Scissors & Tailor's Dagger (Episodes 22-25): When the Scissor Blades are used together, they are able to sever Life Fibers as well as prevent their regeneration, as shown by Nui's loss of her eye and arms (done by Isshin/Sōichirō and Ryūko respectively). Even though the Rending Scissors need to be used together to activate this effect, they do not need to be combined together to use this effect, meaning that it can have the same effect even when it is divided into two halves. In episode 23, both the Scissor Blades go into "Decapitation Mode", implying that they have all the abilities of the separate blades (including a dual scythe form and the ability to shrink to the size of normal scissors). In episode 24, Ryūko finally reforms the original Rending Scissors after transforming Senketsu into Senketsu Kisaragi. The Scissor Blades were bolted together by a screw that appeared from thin air. In this form, they retain their ability to extend their blades, forming a pincer-like weapon called "Dual Decapitation Mode." However, due to Shinra-Koketsu "Absolute Submission", the weapon cannot damage it because it prevented any Life Fibers, including any weapon made of it, from damaging it. When Ragyō hit Ryūko with her final blow, the Rending Scissors are seen drifting towards space. In episode 25, the Rending Scissor returned to Earth during Ryūko's near defeat. As it caught up to Ryūko during her fall, she grabbed on to it and used it to slow her descent and then proceeded to run up a wall. During her battle against the Honnōji Academy Final Defense Apparatus, she detached the Scissor Blades and then increased both scissors to a monstrous size, the left scissor referred to as Farewell Address Mode, right scissor as the Student Response Mode, or both scissors as Scissor Blades Alumni Mode, where, along with the remains of the S.S. Naked Sun, it destroyed the Honnōji Academy Final Defense Apparatus.
Notable Techniques
Scissor Blade
Decapitation Mode
Rending Scissors
The Scissor Blades (Katatachi Basami), also known as the Rending Scissors (ちりバサミ Tachikiri Basami) when combined, are a giant pair of scissors developed by Isshin Matoi specifically for severing Life Fibers. Divided into two weapons around the time of Dr. Matoi's death; one half going to his daughter Ryūko; and the other to his killer, Nui Harime. The scissor blades are made from hardened Life Fibers so this makes the Scissor Blades the only weapons (beside Satsuki Kiryūin's Bakuzan) that are capable of cutting through the Goku Uniforms and Kamui's (except for Ragyō Kiryūin's Shinra-Kōketsu, which is also made of hardened Life Fibers).
Red Scissor Blade: Ryūko owns the red half of the Scissor Blade. The crescent-shaped hilt can extend into a longer two handed sword, known as Decapitation Mode. Ryūko's signature finishing move is Fiber Lost ( Sen'i Sōshitsu, a long-range forward thrust that completely destroys a Goku Uniform, allowing her to absorb it’s Life Fibers.
The red Scissor Blade also displays the ability to change its size, going from a weapon that is nearly as tall as Ryūko to a trinket barely any larger than a normal set of scissors. Ryūko usually keeps the blade in its smaller form when not in a combat situation, but also owns a metal guitar case to carry her weapon around.
Purple Scissor Blade: The second half of the Scissor Blade spends most of the series in Nui's possession. Unlike Ryūko's half, it has a circular handle and a slightly more angular tip, making it slightly shorter than its counterpart. It can reconfigure into a stronger form that adds a curved scythe blade to both ends. It was eventually recovered by Ryūko in episode 22 during the fight against Nui, officially completing the former's weapon set.
This half of the Scissor Blade appears capable of changing color. It is shown to be red during Isshin's murder, purple when in Nui's possession, and red once again when Ryūko retrieves it.
Rending Scissors: When the Scissor Blades are used together, they are able to sever Life Fibers as well as prevent their regeneration, as shown by Nui's loss of her eye and arms (done by Isshin/Sōichirō and Ryūko respectively). Even though the Rending Scissors need to be used together to activate this effect, they do not need to be combined together to use this effect, meaning that it can have the same effect even when it is divided into two halves.
In episode 23, both the Scissor Blades go into "Decapitation Mode", implying that they have all the abilities of the separate blades (including a dual scythe form and the ability to shrink to the size of normal scissors).
In episode 24, Ryūko finally reforms the original Rending Scissors after transforming Senketsu into Senketsu Kisaragi. The Scissor Blades were bolted together by a screw that appeared from thin air. In this form, they retain their ability to extend their blades, forming a pincer-like weapon called "Dual Decapitation Mode." However, due to Shinra-Koketsu "Absolute Submission", the weapon cannot damage it because it prevented any Life Fibers, including any weapon made of it, from damaging it. When Ragyō hit Ryūko with her final blow, the Rending Scissors are seen drifting towards space.
In episode 25, the Rending Scissor returned to Earth during Ryūko's near defeat. As it caught up to Ryūko during her fall, she grabbed on to it and used it to slow her descent and then proceeded to run up a wall. During her battle against the Honnōji Academy Final Defense Apparatus, she detached the Scissor Blades and then increased both scissors to a monstrous size, the left scissor referred to as Farewell Address Mode, right scissor as the Student Response Mode, or both scissors as Scissor Blades Alumni Mode, where, along with the remains of the S.S. Naked Sun, it destroyed the Honnōji Academy Final Defense Apparatus.
As the destroyed Honnō City sank into Tokyo Bay, both Scissors can be seen sinking along with it.
Senketsu
Senketsu (Fresh blood) is a Kamui created by Isshin Matoi, who is later revealed to be Sōichirō Kiryūin, and is the deuteragonist of Kill la Kill. Appearing as a sentient sailor uniform, he was found by his creator's daughter, Ryūko Matoi, becoming her primary ally in her battle against Satsuki Kiryūin and, later, Ragyō Kiryūin and COVERS.
Absorption ability: In addition to the standard abilities of Life Fiber clothing, Senketsu has the ability to absorb the Life Fibers of defeated Goku Uniforms and Kamui, increasing his power. In addition, Senketsu possesses more than one Banshi, which may be a consequence of his absorption ability. This absorbing power was the downfall of Ragyō, since Senketsu absorbed her Absolute Submission power to use for himself.
Thrusters: On both backside of the crest and the back and Senketsu's activated form has ventilation grill-like exhausts which is visible while Ryūko is fully synchronized. Initially acting as exhaust ports to release heat to warn her that she reached her limit, its true functions revealed as soon as Ryūko fully synchronizes with Senketsu, at which these acted as thrusters for increasing her speed soften her landing, or boosting herself.
Grappling Hook: As shown in the fight against Gamagōri, spikes on the skirt of Senketsu's activated form can be deployed to anchor herself to the ground.
Beserker Mode: When Ryūko's anger at Nui made her blood boiling hot, Senketsu became a bloodthirsty monster. It also caused his armor form to change into a chaotic, blood leaking version of itself, mutating its wearer into a green-skinned, jagged toothed creature.
Senketsu Senjin (Senketsu Blade Flash): In this form, Senketsu protrudes blades from all over its body. Senjin also has retractable claws. These claws can also be used during Senketsu's normal-mode and was once upgraded to a blade made of Ryūko's blood.
Senketsu Shippū (Senketsu Gale): Senketsu's flying form. The bottom part of the uniform becomes a jet propulsion, and the crest (Senketsu's "eyes") becomes wings.
Senketsu Mubyōshi (Senketsu Sound Negation): This was used during the fight against Nonon Jakuzure to negate her sound wave attack and use it against her.
Senjin Shippū (Senketsu Blade Gale): It combines the blades of Senketsu Senjin and the jet propulsion of Senketsu Shippu to create a hybrid form with boosted offensive capabilities.
Senketsu Kisaragi (Senketsu Fashion Week) Senketsu's ultimate form. It combines the powers of Junketsu and the Goku Uniforms to create the strongest form with boosted stats.
Other
Standard Tactics: Ryūko will use her Scissor Blade to primarily cut through her opponent. With Senketsu, she'll always transform with him, using her Scissor Blade alongside her various forms. Ryūko attempts to adapt to her opponent, finding out a counter to them as she fights. During Berserk, Ryūko has no sense in her and will attempt to only fight and kill brutally with no strategy. With Junketsu, she loses the abilities she has with Senketsu, so she primarily sword fights and can likely use energy beams like Satsuki. With Kisaragi, Ryūko attempts to go for the kill, but in the case she's too weak, she'll let herself get beaten down. This allows her to regenerate and grow back stronger from each near-death experience.
Weaknesses: Ryūko can be very hotheaded and brash at the start, though she learns to stop this overtime. Senketsu will be weakened and drain too much blood if Ryūko is embarrassed wearing him, however she later overcame this weakness. If Senketsu's Banshi threads are cut, he will be broken down, however he can always regenerate from this. If Ryūko gets too angry, she'll turn into her berserk form that will eventually kill her if she doesn't calm down. Senketsu will be lost if Ryūko absorbs too much Life Fibers in her Kisaragi form.