Summary
Disguised as "Kourin," Nuriko initially resides in Emperor Hotohori's harem, a place the Emperor rarely visits aside from welcoming new maidens. The persona of "Kourin" was actually Nuriko’s deceased younger sister, whom he began imitating in behavior and attire to preserve her memory. Born in Eiyou, the capital of Konan, Nuriko is an eighteen-year-old endowed with superhuman strength. He is later bestowed with bracelets by Taiitsukun that transform into armbands amplifying his power. His true identity is Ryuuen Chou, a name derived from the star Willow. Nuriko struggles with jealousy, quick temper, and calculating tendencies, yet remains fundamentally level-headed and compassionate, often showing the greatest concern for the relationship between Miaka and Tamahome. While he is infatuated with his fellow warrior Hotohori when presenting as a woman, he also harbors romantic feelings for Miaka Yuuki as a man. Although initially envious of Hotohori’s affection for Miaka, Nuriko and Miaka eventually forge a close friendship. Upon realizing that his cross-dressing stemmed from the unyielding grief of losing his sister, he understands he had been attempting to live as Kourin would have, rather than as himself. This epiphany empowers him to embrace his male identity. He cuts his waist-length braided hair and confesses to Tamahome that his love for Miaka extends beyond friendship. Although he retains his feelings for Hotohori, Nuriko ultimately decides to cease dressing as a woman to better protect Miaka.
