The panel couldn’t have been clearer: a spray of crimson against cold steel. Maru’s fate hangs suspended, the neon glow of the traffic sign casting long shadows. Was this how it all ends for the Simurian? Most Jujutsu Kaisen fans feel like the spin-off manga is just getting started, but the author is already planning to wrap things up in three volumes.
Spoilers Warning:
This article contains spoilers about Maru vs. Tsurugi’s battle in Jujutsu Kaisen: Modulo manga. Read at your own discretion if you want to learn more about the outcome of their battle.
Tsurugi Claims Victory in JJK Modulo Chapter 20
Think about it: one moment, you’re sparring with a friend; the next, you’re staring down the barrel of their deepest power. Tsurugi’s battle with Maru showcases exactly that grim dynamic. Maru’s Cursed Technique, Chaos and Order, initially threw Tsurugi for a loop, pushing him to the brink during their first clash.
Facing defeat, Tsurugi tapped into his heritage, using Yuta’s ring to channel Rika, the Queen of Curses. The result? An unprecedented fusion, eclipsing even Yuta’s prior displays. This hybrid form granted Tsurugi immense power, turning the tide against Maru.
The narrative briefly shifts to Dabura’s fight against Mahoraga and the return of Itadori Yuji, before snapping back to the Tsurugi-Maru showdown. Those familiar with Yuta’s capabilities will recall his weapon-summoning ability via Rika. Similarly, in JJK Modulo Chapter 20, Tsurugi calls upon the Split Soul Katana.
What is the Split Soul Katana in Jujutsu Kaisen?
Previously wielded by Toji Fushiguro and Maki Zenin, this katana holds significant weight within the Jujutsu Kaisen universe. When Yuji’s curse extermination ability momentarily weakens Maru, Tsurugi seizes the opportunity, striking with the summoned blade. A shallow cut, but an opening nonetheless.
Tsurugi then makes a binding vow with Rika, relinquishing his remaining cursed energy to her in exchange for blinding speed. As Rika’s mask dissolves, Tsurugi abandons the transformation, opting for pure, unadulterated velocity. The battlefield becomes a canvas for his newfound power, and the stakes ascend.
In a flash, Tsurugi appears before Maru, catching him completely off guard. The fatal blow lands, painting the nearby traffic sign with the Simurian’s blood. This isn’t just any cut; the Split Soul Katana is known for bypassing defenses and severing the soul itself. This moment feels final, the period at the end of a sentence no one wanted to read.
This could very well be the end for Maru, a sacrifice on Tsurugi’s path to saving his sister, who faces her own trials against Dabura. But can Gege pull another trick from up his sleeve?
How Powerful is Tsurugi Compared to Other Jujutsu Kaisen Characters?
While Tsurugi’s recent power-up is impressive, comparing him to established characters such as Gojo Satoru or Yuta Okkotsu requires careful consideration. Gojo’s Six Eyes and limitless cursed energy place him in a league of his own, and Yuta’s mastery over cursed techniques is well documented. Tsurugi’s current strength seems more circumstantial, relying heavily on Rika’s power and the element of surprise.
Initially, the Modulo trio seemed destined for greatness, but Tsurugi now finds himself forced to eliminate a friend to protect family. It’s a classic hero’s dilemma, reminiscent of tragedies penned by Shakespeare.
Could Gege Akutami Resurrect Maru in a Future Chapter?
The world of Jujutsu Kaisen is no stranger to resurrections and unexpected twists, with characters surviving seemingly fatal blows. While Maru’s current situation appears bleak, Gege Akutami, the series creator, has a history of subverting expectations. Perhaps a hidden cursed technique or an intervention from another character could offer a glimmer of hope for Maru’s survival, defying the grim foreshadowing of Chapter 20.
With his friend’s blood still fresh, the question remains: Will Maru somehow defy death after that soul-rending strike?