Why Didn't Lucifer Morningstar Destroy His Son Takehiko?

In the 2020 adaptation of NOS4A2, fans often wonder why Lucifer Morningstar, arguably one of the most powerful beings in the series, didn't simply destroy his son Takehiko. The answer lies in a combination of emotional and strategic motivations, which are explored in the following analysis.

Emotional Connections and Fatherly Love

Lucifer, despite his manipulative and often cold demeanor, has displayed moments of vulnerability and fatherly love towards Takehiko. In one of the pivotal scenes, Takehiko's statement that even if he and their mother were killed, their victory would still be certain due to the elimination of Mazikeen, underscores the complex emotions at play. Lucifer finds it astonishing that his son, even after all these years, remembers their mother, whom he himself has tried to forget.

This emotional connection is further highlighted when Lucifer offers to trade the ghost of their mother for his son back, showing a moment of raw, heartfelt pain and desperation. However, Izanami's response thrills Lucifer by questioning the validity of his threats, forcing him to confront his weakness in front of his daughter.

Strategic Deliberations and Character Depth

Lucifer's decision to not destroy Takehiko also aligns with his strategic and calculated nature. In the wider context of NOS4A2, Lucifer is a character who has seen the fall of many and understands the futility of endless battles and speeches. His single vision of a defeated, lonely old man highlights the emptiness that comes with his existence.

Yet, despite his grand schemes and manipulations, Lucifer still grapples with the human emotional quotient. This moment with Takehiko reveals a glimmer of empathy and understanding that he might not fully recognize in himself. He acknowledges that Takehiko, "doesn't deserve to die for that," but Izanami's words cut deeper, revealing a more profound and personal challenge.

Lucifer's reasoning is rooted in a recognition of Takehiko's youth and foolishness, which are less sinister than his own actions and choices. His choice to preserve his son, even in these dire circumstances, can be seen as an extension of his broader philosophy of not simply doing away with those who cross his path. Instead, he uses them as tools to achieve his goals, including Takehiko.

Psi-Ki and Betrayal

The scene also highlights the concept of Psi-Ki, an enigmatic and powerful force, which symbolizes lucid dreams and the realm of dreams in NOS4A2. Takehiko's possession by the Psi-Ki, as seen in the encounter with Izanami, represents a point of relative weakness for Lucifer's son. However, it also reflects on the broader theme of manipulation and the role of others, even in the dark realms of supernatural forces.

The mention of Takehiko as a pawn in the grand scheme further reinforces the idea that he, and potentially many others, are merely tools in the larger battle that Lucifer is fighting. It questions whether he truly has the power or autonomy to simply end Takehiko's life, especially when he himself acts as a pawn in the hands of others.

The Human Quality and Emotional Resilience of Lucifer

The conversation serves as a reminder of Lucifer's humanity, or at least the remnants of it. Despite his grandiose presence and manipulative prowess, he is still a figure who empathizes, even if unconsciously. This profoundly human side of Lucifer is what makes him more relatable and believable as a character.

The idea that Lucifer might be the last to destroy his own son suggests a potential evolution in his character. As the stakes rise and the story progresses, we might see more instances of his vulnerability and compassion, even if they are fleeting.

In conclusion, Lucifer Morningstar's decision not to destroy Takehiko in NOS4A2 is a complex blend of emotional ties, strategic considerations, and a recognition of his own humanity. These layers of character depth enhance the overall narrative and provide a richer, more nuanced understanding of the series.