Nuriko's given name was Ryuen. He is a member of the suzaku seven, sworn to protect the priestess of suzaku.  He is a very feminine looking man, which makes it easy for him to pose as a girl.   He initially comes across as being a cruel thoughtless snob when he ignores Miaka, and plays with her feelings in order to hurt her, because of his jealousy over the emperor's attention.  However, Miaka tries hard to win his friendship, and her olive branch eventually reaches Nuriko.  He begins to respect her and devotes himself to protecting her.  He later shows much genuine caring, and becomes very close to Miaka (like a girl friend to her).  He can hold his liquor well and drinks strong wine.  He often doesn't realize his own strength when he hits someone, just playing around, and it turns out to be a lot more jarring than he had intended.  He displays a talent with encouragement , even acting like an older brother to Tamahome with advice.  He is strong-willed, secure, and devoted. When Nuriko was little, he was happy and carefree.  He had a sister, Kouren, who was his best friend, and they did everything together.  One day, Nuriko witnessed his sister get hit by a carriage and killed.  He mourned deeply over the loss of her, and just couldn't let go.  He decided to let his sister live on through him, and thereafter started dressing and acting like a girl.  Once Nuriko meets Miaka, she makes him realize that he can let go.  He cuts his hair and starts to be himself again.  When he resumes the roll of a man, he realizes that he has feelings for Miaka, but gallantly steps aside in order for Miaka and Tamahome to be together. Nuriko displays great physical strength.  He is extremely adept at lifting heavy objects. Nuriko's Kanji of Suzaku can be found on his chest and its meaning is willow.