Kashima, Reiko

Overview

Reiko Kashima, also known as the Slit-Mouthed Woman (口裂け女, Kuchisake-onna), is a pivotal character in the manga series ‘Dandadan’. Her backstory and presence are deeply intertwined with the narrative, making her a compelling and complex figure.

Personality

Reiko Kashima is a yōkai with a profound and tragic history. Her personality is shaped by her past, which is marked by loss and suffering. Unlike the traditional Japanese urban myth where she is depicted as being cut in half by a train and haunting bathrooms, in ‘Dandadan’, Reiko’s backstory is rooted in the trauma of losing her loved ones during World War 2, leading her to haunt an abandoned hospital area.

Her actions are driven by a deep-seated pain and a desire to protect others from suffering the same fate. Despite her intimidating appearance and powers, Reiko shows moments of vulnerability and empathy, particularly in her interactions with Momo Ayase and Okarun. Her decision to spare them and walk away after witnessing their mutual love is a testament to her complex emotional landscape.

Role in the Story

Reiko Kashima plays a significant role in the story of ‘Dandadan’. She is introduced as a formidable yōkai who resides in an abandoned hospital and has the ability to trap and destroy entities within her mirror. Her powers are showcased when she effortlessly wipes out an invading alien fleet, demonstrating her immense strength and capability.

Her interactions with the main characters, particularly Momo and Okarun, are pivotal. She is drawn to Momo and attempts to lure her outside by pretending to confess Okarun’s love, showcasing her manipulative yet protective nature.

Relationships

Reiko’s relationships with other characters are multifaceted. Her connection with Momo Ayase is particularly noteworthy, as she seems to have a protective instinct towards her. Her actions towards Momo are driven by a desire to keep her safe, even if it means keeping her confined.

Her encounter with Okarun and the witnessing of his and Momo’s mutual love marks a turning point in her character development. It suggests that despite her yōkai nature, Reiko retains a sense of humanity and empathy.

Significant Plot Points

• Confrontation with Momo and Okarun: Reiko’s attempts to lure Momo outside and her subsequent decision to spare them after witnessing their love is a crucial plot point. It highlights her emotional depth and capacity for empathy.
• Destruction of the Alien Fleet: Reiko’s demonstration of power against the alien fleet underscores her role as a formidable yōkai and a protector of the human world.
• Backstory Revelation: The revelation of Reiko’s past, differing from the traditional urban myth, adds depth to her character and provides insight into her motivations and actions.

Conclusion

Reiko Kashima is a complex and compelling character in ‘Dandadan’, whose tragic past and powerful abilities make her a pivotal figure in the narrative. Her interactions with other characters and her emotional depth add layers to her personality, making her a fascinating subject of study within the manga’s universe.