Reader’s Question:
I have a question about DanMachi! When Ryu was with Bell on the 27th floor, a Juggernaut appeared. I remember that five years ago, when the Juggernaut first showed up, the enemies mentioned that Ryu killed members of the Astraea Familia. Did Ryu really kill her own teammates to
survive?
Understanding Ryu’s Past in DanMachi
Ah, DanMachi, or “Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?”—what a fascinating series! I remember diving into it for the first time, captivated by the intricate world-building and complex characters. The question about Ryu’s past really strikes a chord with me, given how it intertwines themes of survival, guilt, and sacrifice. Ryu’s situation on the 27th floor with Bell is a poignant moment in the series. The Juggernaut’s appearance serves as a reminder of her haunting past and the horrific events that unfolded with the Astraea Familia. I can totally relate to the way this storyline digs deep into the psyche of its characters. It’s like peeling back layers of an onion—each layer reveals more about their motivations and emotions. Now, to address the crux of the question: Did Ryu really kill her teammates to survive? The answer lies in the tragic circumstances of that fateful day. As the user pointed out, it wasn’t Ryu who directly caused the deaths. Rather, it was the relentless Juggernaut that wreaked havoc. One of her comrades sacrificed themselves to allow Ryu to escape, which leaves a heavy burden on her conscience. It’s heart-wrenching to think that Ryu views her survival as a betrayal of those who stayed behind. I can’t help but reflect on how often we find ourselves in situations where we must make tough choices. It reminds me of my own experiences, like that time I showed up way too early for a class and ended up indulging in way too many snacks from the vending machine. I felt guilty for overindulging, but in a way, it was a moment of self-care. Just like Ryu grappling with her feelings of guilt, we all have our own ways of processing difficult experiences. What makes Ryu’s narrative even more compelling is the way she internalizes her trauma. Her assertion that she “killed” her teammates speaks volumes about her feelings of helplessness. It’s fascinating how the psyche can twist survival into something that feels like guilt or regret. I think that speaks to a broader theme in psychology—the way we often hold ourselves accountable for circumstances beyond our control. I would love to hear your thoughts on this! Have you ever found yourself feeling guilty about something you had no control over? Or perhaps you’ve related to a character’s struggle in a story that resonated with you on a personal level? Share your experiences or tips in the comments! Let’s dive deeper into the fascinating world of DanMachi together!
