Does Nayuta actually love Denji in Chainsaw Man? Their relationship, explained

Modified Nov 13, 2024 23:30 GMT

Chainsaw Man has depicted the relationship between Denji and Nayuta, the reincarnation of the Control Devil, as layered with complex emotions and subtle dynamics. Following Denji’s traumatic run-in with Makima, he was tasked with Nayuta's care by Kishibe. The hope was to raise her differently and prevent her from turning out like Makima.

With Denji, she would grow up better and be offered a life free of the pull toward power and control. Such a unique setup placed Nayuta as a dependent and a key figure for Denji. Unlike Makima, Nayuta wasn’t manipulative rather she showed show genuine care and attachment towards Denji. Hence, to answer the question - Does Nayuta actually love Denji? Yes, Nayuta does love and cares for Denji.

Regardless of her origins as the Control Devil in Chainsaw Man, her bond with Denji is based on trust and unspoken love. Denji's influence was crucial in her learning to value relationships beyond control, thus further proving her care for him.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the series and reflects the author's opinion.

Why Nayuta loves Denji, explained

Denji and Nayuta in Chainsaw Man (Image via Viz Media)

Now that the question has been answered, we delve into the reasoning. She shows deep affection for Denji because he acts with genuine care and respect towards her, fostering an environment for her growth, unlike most people in her life (presumably). With him, she is able to develop, with the feeling of being bound by her Control Devil identity absent.

Makima's defeat led to her reincarnated as Nayuta, the little girl who was handed a fresh start. Thanks to Kishibe, Denji became her guardian. Denji, having witnessed hardship, struggle, and trauma himself, empathized with her on a deeper level. Moreover, he did not fear or resent her for identity but focused on fulfilling his task of bringing her up with affection, care, and a sense of belonging.

Such a dynamic directly contrasts with the life Makima was shown to have led, her bonds being founded on power and control rather than on love. Denji’s patience and warmth enabled Nayuta to fully experience companionship and trust. It grounded her in a manner that naturally built a loving bond. In Nayuta's eyes, Denji was stable, accepting, and an important presence that fostered affection and respect for him.

Denji and Nayuta's relationship in Chainsaw Man

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Following Makima's defeat, a sensation of relief washed over Denji as he was finally free of her. However, his relief was short-lived as soon after, Kishibe introduced him to Nayuta, the reincarnation of the Control Devil. He spotted and picked her up from China, to avoid Public Safety getting to her first.

Considering how Makima turned out, Kishibe felt that Denji would be the perfect guardian for the little girl. Initially, Nayuta displayed confusion upon meeting Denji. Living together, she didn't know why she pitied him and had a desire to take his heart. So, she used her powers on him and learned of everything that had happened, including her former identity and the goal of breaking the Denji-Pochita contract.

Then, she decided to attempt to fulfill her previous self's goal of giving Denji a normal life before taking it away. But the more time she spent with Denji, the more she began to care for him. She also began valuing his well-being over her own, stepping into multiple dangerous situations to protect him. While she might seem controlling, her intentions seem to be pure and stem only from affection.

In essence, the relationship between Nayuta and Denji showcases a stark contrast to the manipulative and unbalanced one he had with Makima. He treats Nayuta with empathy and patience, slowly teaching her how to connect with others in a meaningful way. As she gradually grows up, Nayuta reflects these values and traits to him with loyalty and love. This makes their relationship a symbol of second chances and the healing power of genuine care.