Ryūko Matoi

	"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 to Satsuki

“	Humans have a will to live!	„
	~ Ryūko

Background

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.

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.

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.

General Information

Name: Ryūko Matoi

Other Names: Senketsu (Kamui)

Origin: Kill la Kill

First Appearance: Kill La Kill Episode 1

Company: Studio Trigger

Creator: Kazuki Nakashima

Actor

• Japanse Voice Actor: Ami Koshimizu
• English Voice Actor: Erica Mendez

Sex: Female

Sexuality: Bi-Sexual (Accepted a date with Mako Mankanshoku)

Pronouns: She/Her

Age: 17

Birthday: Unknown (Kazuki Nakashima has said at an event that there are no official birthdays for the Kill la Kill cast)

Homeworld: Earth

Residence: Mako Mankanshoku's house

Story Role: Main Protagonist

Classification: (Former) Student of Honnōji Academy

Species: Human-Life Fiber Hybrid

State of Being: Regular

[[Physiology Humanoid Physiology

In-Universe Creator: Unknown

Occupation: None

Affiliations: Senkets, Aikurō Mikisugi, Mako Mankanshoku, Satsuki Kiryūin, Uzu Sanageyama,

Enemies: Satsuki Kiryūin (Formerly), Uzu Sanageyama (Formerly), Nui Harime, Ragyō Kiryūin, Junketsu

Height: Unknown

Weight: Unknown

Status: Alive

Protection Level: Cosmic Protector (Protected the world from the Original Life Fiber, who traveled across the universe and destroying everything)

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

Cardinality: Finite

Dimensionality: 3-D

Attack Potency: Wall level (Casually defeated students wearing One Star Goku Uniforms, who can survive crashing through stone walls. Wrestled with two alligators.) | Small Building level (Hit Omiko hard enough to cause a massive crack in a wall) | Town level (Caused an explosion in her clash with Satsuki that resulted in this level) | At least Town level (Initially was easily defeated against Sanageyama using a Three Star Goku Uniform, but later defeats the likes of Gamagori, Inumuta, and Nonon, all of whom which use Three Star Goku Uniforms) | At least Town level (Kept up with a more serious Satsuki) | At least Town level (Stated by Senketsu to be growing stronger. With just using a single piece of Senketsu, she was able to casually overpower others using pieces of Senketsu and Satsuki with Junketsu. Stalemated Satsuki. Overpowered Nui, when the latter could casually defeat the former before) | At least Town level (Used Junketsu like Satsuki while she uses Senketsu) | At least Town level (After growing full synchronization with Senketsu, Ryūko was able to casually defeat Nui, when the latter could casually defeat the former before) | Planet level (Superior to the S.S. Naked Sun, which can pierce through the Original Life Fiber. The Original Life Fiber is capable of surviving planets being blown up in the epicenter), Far Higher with Absorption (Grows far stronger after absorbing all Life Fibers, however this does have a drawback in destroying Senketsu) | At least Town level (Can harm Life Fiber copies of the Elite Four using Goku Uniforms), Planet level with the Rending Scissors (Destroyed the S.S. Naked Sun)

Durability: Wall level (Can survive attacks from two alligators) | Small Building level (Should be superior to Omiko, who survived the initial crack) | Town level (Took a hit from Satsuki) | 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

Lifting Strength: Unknown | Class 1 (Far stronger than Takaharu Fukuroda, who's boxing gloves weigh around this much) | At least Class 1 | Class 15 (Can lift and throw back a large missile) | 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, which is the size of the academy and larger than the S.S. Naked Sun) | At least Class G | Class G

Travel Speed: Superhuman (Can run up walls. Comparable to Mako) | At least Superhuman (Far faster than before) | At least Supersonic (Can outrun Tsumugu's gun) | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | Relativistic | At most Faster Than Light (Comparable to the Original Life Fiber, which were stated to travel across the universe) | 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 bullets at point blank range) | 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) | 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. Planetary Absorption 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)

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Powers and Techniques

Superhuman Physical Characteristics, Weapon Usage (Ryūko is skilled in using her Scissor Blade, even without the use of Senketsu), Fusionism (Fused with Senketsu after first being worn, developing a strong bond), Transformation (Transforms with her Kamui with blood), Accelerated Development (Passive. Physical stats, Skill, and Abilities. Senketsu was noting that Ryūko was getting stronger, and was capable of keeping up with others in combat without the use of a Kamui, despite losing prior with one), Sheer Will (Even after getting knocked to her base form and being defeated from blood loss, she was able to block a hit from Satsuki. Her willpower alone was able to overcome Ragyo's mind control from pulling her brain. Skinned herself alive, even if it were to kill her. Stated by Satsuki that her spirit overwhelmed Nui), Size Manipulation (Her Scissor Blade can change to become smaller), Surface Scaling (Ran up a large pillar from a 90 degree angle), Vehicular Mastery (Land Vehicles; Able to fight against people using Goku Uniforms and wearing COVERs while riding her bike), Hair Manipulation (Ryūko's red strand on hair cut the Life Fibers wrapping around her brain), Intangibility (Ryūko can shove her hand through her head and used it to remove the Life Fibers wrapping her brain), Regeneration & Immortality (High-Mid & Type 6; Ryūko's regeneration should be similar to Ragyo's regeneration. Ragyo states she can regenerate so long as she has a single strand of Life Fiber connected to her. Comparable to Senketsu, who can reform himself after being cut to many tiny pieces. Regenerated from having his chest impaled and having her heart pulled out. Can regenerate after skinning herself alive due to removing Junketsu, who was sewed in her body. Ryūko is still alive during each of these moments of pain), Reactive Power Level (It was stated by Ragyo that Life Fibers become active and more stronger when in a near-death experience by their host. This was later supported by Ryūko), Limited Negation to a Resistance of Regeneration Negation (Mid-High; Ryūko's Scissor Blades can cut through Life Fibers and bypass Nui's regeneration, who can previously regenerate from them), Self-Sustenance (Respiratory Self-Sustenance; Can breathe in space).

Resistance to Corruption (Ryūko is able to wear Senketsu, who is made up of 100% Life Fiber and can absorb more. A human using 50% Life Fiber corrupted him into a wild monster), Extreme Heats (Jumped around inside a pool of lava), Pain (Ryūko can wear Senketsu at an incomplete form, despite being stated that it would severely harm her. During her fight with Satsuki, she cut off her arm and was fine from the after effect. Shoved her hand within her skull and pulled out the Life Fibers that Ragyo implanted within her brain. Survived Ragyo impaling her chest while having her heart being pulled out. Ignored the pain of having Life Fibers stuck inside of her body and pulled. Removed Junketsu from her body, despite being sewed in her body and causing Ryūko to skin herself, losing a pool of blood), Biological Manipulation & Durability Negation (Ryūko was able to survive being implanted with Life Fibers as a newborn, which were stated to shut down your nervous systems), Mind Manipulation (Ryūko can resist the effects of Ragyo controlling her mind from wrapping Life Fibers around her brain as she was controlling everyone within the school), Memory Manipulation (COVERs are made up of pure Life Fibers, which humans cannot take unlike Ryūko. The COVERs were stated to be able to remove information from people's minds), Regeneration Negation (High-Mid; Ryūko can survive hits from the Scissor Blades and still regenerate, despite the blades being made to bypass Life Fibers), Power Nullification & Fear Manipulation (Unaffected by Ragyo's Absolute Domination, which removes anyone's power when hit by the light and makes them cower in fear), Fire Manipulation (Unaffected by being on fire from the atmosphere while falling down to Earth)

Same as before, Weapon Usage (Skilled in using both the Scissor Blades and the Tailor's Dagger), Summoning (Can summon the Rending Scissor Blades), Size Manipulation (Can further increase the size of her Rending Scissor Blades)

Power Bestowal (Gives anyone that wears him his power for blood), Information Analysis (Senketsu can learn about someone's entire biology when being worn), Telepathy (Able to talk to others within their mind via contact), Body Control (Senketsu can remove parts of his body and use them to cover one's face, or use as a leash), Enhanced Senses (Able to "feel" that Sanageyama is different from before, noting he's more powerful), Immortality (Type 6; Senketsu was able to survive being cut into small pieces by Nui and lived from being just an eye), Regeneration (High-Mid. Reformed after being cut to many little pieces), Astral Projection (Spoke to Ryūko and had an astral form after dying), Memory Manipulation, Mind Manipulation & Dimensional Storage (Senketsu can enter someone's wound to navigate and alter their minds from within their body), Minor Water Manipulation (Senketsi can cry, despite being made up of pure Life Fiber).

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)

Same as in base, Statistics Amplification (Senketsu increases Ryūko's strength, speed, fighting skill, and durability), Absorption (Ryūko can absorb Life Fibers and the Life Fibers from others after defeating them), Cloth Manipulation (With her Life Fiber Synchronize with Senketsu, Ryūko's Kamui changes), Smoke Manipulation (Her uniform produces steam out of her body), Size Manipulation (Can increase the size of her scissor blade with her finishing move, Fiber Lost), Vibration Manipulation & Sheer Will (Created a shockwave against Satsuki from her willpower alone)

Same as before, Healing (Despite initially having bruises all over her body, Ryūko was able to heal herself fully once fully synchronizing with Senketsu), Air Manipulation (Caused an air explosion that sent everyone flying in her fight with Satsuki), Smoke Manipulation (The smoke Senketsu releases can be used to push Ryūko forward, increasing her speed), Bulletproof (Shrugged off several of Tsumugu's needle bullets, which were able to piece Life Fibers, despite being stated to be immune to them), Adaptation & Power Manifestation (Ryūko was able to create new forms and abilities during her battles against the Elite Four), Weapon Creation (With Senketsu Senjin, which covers Ryūko's body with spikes, being able to be used as claws, chainsaws, and enlarged spikes. The spikes from her skirt can also be used as grappling hooks or become a spinning blade), Size Manipulation (Senketsu can increase the size of himself to attack others), Flight (With Senketsu Shippū, Ryūko's bottom half of her suit becomes a jet, allowing her to fly), Sound Manipulation, Vibration Manipulation, Forcefield Creation, Power Absorption, & Attack Reflection (With Senketsu Mubyōshi Ryūko was able to turn Nonon's sound waves into her own pure tone by altering the frequencies of the waves, blocking out all sound. She was then able to send Nonon's attack right back at her), Rage Power, Transformation, and Berserk Mode (Ryūko transforms into a berserk mode if extremely angry), Body Control (Ryūko was able to transform her arm into a sword against Satsuki), Enhanced Senses (Ryūko was able to detect Aikuro from a sniper's distance away), Heat Manipulation & Blood Manipulation (Ryūko's blood was hot enough enough to melt a large area of stone, surrounding herself in a pool of blood as if it were lava. Her blood was also able to burn Mako upon contact), Memory Manipulation, Mind Manipulation & Dimensional Storage (Senketsu can enter someone's wound to navigate and alter their minds from within their body, to which he can take anyone wearing him), Mimicry (Power Mimicry & Technique Mimicry; Should be comparable to Satsuki, who can use Senketsu's abilities after using him. The same should apply when Ryūko used Junketsu), Energy Projection (Can fire energy beams from scaling to Satsuki).

Resistance to Paralysis Inducement (Can move after being pierced with Tsumugu's needles, which can completely paralyse a person from just one needle), Sound Manipulation & Vibration Manipulation (Survived being hit by loud sound waves created by Nonon, which vibrates her body to inflict damage), Heat Manipulation (Can withstand her own blood boiling, which was able to melt through large stone)

Same as before, Bloodlust, Natural Weaponry (Her Scissor Blade is attached to her arm)

Same as before on a greater scale, Enhanced Regeneration (Her regeneration works at a much faster pace), Limited Mind Manipulation (After absorbing Shinra Koketsu's Absolute Domination, Ryūko was able to control all Life Fibers within the planet). Enhanced Resistance to Pain (Ryūko can endure many stabs without showing any signs of pain)

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Equipment

• 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.

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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.

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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.

Battle Records

None.

None.

None.