Mou Ryou (魍魎) is an overarching name for spirits of mountains, rivers, trees, rocks and graveyards; furthermore, it was originally a nature spirit from Chinese mythology, known as Wangliang (罔兩).
However, the description of these spirits in the game differs, stating that they are those described in Japanese mythology; therefore, this description relates to the spirits whose full name is "chimimouryou." Chimi refers to spirits of the mountain, and mouryou refers to spirits of the river. Combining the two words simply groups the two types together, similar spirits that reside in different locations.
In the series, the spirit is depicted as a crimson-colored ghost with a distorted face within the main body of the apparition. In myth the spirit is described differently, the two named spirits, chimi and mouryou have different features. Chimi reside within a peculiar atmosphere atop mountains and in forests, being in the form of a beast with the face of a human. The other is in the form of a child with maroon-colored skin and long ears, said to be a kind of oni, and this variant is the mouryou.
"A spirit of the dead that failed to ascend to the heavens in Japanese lore. Some have evil intent, but most are not that powerful. They are often depicted as flaming balls."
—Shin Megami Tensei IV Apocalypse compendium
Mou-Ryo can be found in Shinjuku in the west entrance and west entrance buildings areas. Mou-Ryo can teach Nanashi the Mudo, Spirit Drain and Pulinpa skills through its Demon Whisper. Mou-Ryo benefits from learning Darkness and ailment skills. Mou-Ryo can transform into Inferno at level 28.
Shin Megami Tensei IMAGINE[]
"Spirits of the dead who were unable to achieve Nirvana. They are strongly associated with water. Mou-ryo are part of the Japanese word "chimi-mouryo," which refers to evil spirits in general. They appear frequently in Japanese legends."
—Shin Megami Tensei IMAGINE compendium
Mou-Ryou can be contracted in Nakano, Kagurazaka Zhu Que Cavern, Ueno at night, and the Old Tokyo Metro. They appear in both silver and bronze levels of the Ichigaya Camp boss room and as a experience-boosting timed spawn in the main levels of the Hongou instance.
Shin Megami Tensei: Liberation Dx2[]
"A spirit of the dead that failed to ascend to the heavens in Japanese lore. Some have evil intent, but most are not that powerful. They are often depicted as flaming balls."
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