Ryuk

Ryuk is a Shinigami whose dropped notebook begins the central conflict of Death Note. He follows Light Yagami after Light claims the Death Note and uses it to kill criminals.

Ryuk's place in Death Note

Ryuk is curious, amused, detached, and motivated primarily by relief from boredom rather than justice or loyalty. As a Shinigami he can see names and lifespans, fly, remain invisible to most humans, and kill through his notebook.

Ryuk's abilities and key relationships

He enjoys apples and observes Light's contest with L without becoming a true ally. Ryuk's final decision confirms his warning that the human who uses the notebook cannot expect him to provide salvation.