Yukiharu Nishi

**Yukiharu Nishi** (西幸春, *Nishi Yukiharu*) is one of the characters in Yuto Sano's manga series, *Gokurakugai*.

## Appearance

Yuki falls under the category of a low-level beastman, although the specific type of beastman remains unidentified. His physical traits suggest a resemblance to a feline, as evidenced by his possession of cat ears and a lengthy tail.

## Personality

Yuki, a friendly beastman, and Luka, who shares a similar shyness, eventually formed a friendship over time.

## Plot

### Background

The available information about Yuki's life is limited, mostly revolving around his meeting with Luka. One day, Luka and Yuki cross paths, forming an unexpected friendship that defies societal norms regarding interactions between people from different backgrounds. Their bond forms over Luka's artistic pursuits and a shared sense of companionship. Yuki's sudden disappearance sets Luka's journey into motion. Driven by a deep desire to find Yuki, Luka embarks on an extensive search, resorting even to graffiti to establish connections with those who might have insights into Yuki's whereabouts. This quest eventually leads him to the Gokurakugai Troubleshooter Agency, where he encounters Alma and Tao.

Although initially cautious about Alma and Tao's intentions, Luka is drawn to them due to their genuine interest in his story and their willingness to provide help. Despite his initial hesitations, Luka recognizes the necessity of assistance and reluctantly shares the details surrounding Yuki's disappearance, the graffiti's significance, and the enigmatic Maga creatures. Luka's determination and bravery come to the fore when he faces a Maga in the alleys while seeking clues about Yuki. This encounter underscores Luka's courage and his readiness to put his life on the line for his friend. Despite lacking the specialized skills and knowledge possessed by Alma and Tao, Luka confronts the Maga directly.

## Relationships

* **Luka Kiyomine:** Yuki's most profound bond was with Luka Kiyomine. The two met during a pivotal moment in Luka's life when he was struggling with his own identity and facing bullying due to his affluent background. Yuki's admiration for Luka's art and their shared interests brought them together, forming an unbreakable friendship. Despite societal pressures and his father's disapproval of associating with beastmen, Luka chose to stand by Yuki's side, valuing their genuine connection. This friendship marked a turning point in Luka's life and created a strong foundation for their relationship.

## Etymology

* The name **"西幸春" (Nishi Yukiharu)** comes from Japan and has cultural importance. The part **"西" (Nishi)** means "west" in Japanese and is often a last name, showing a connection to the west or the setting sun. This often came from where families lived. **"幸" (Yuki)** means "happiness" or "good fortune" in Japanese. It's a positive symbol used in names to wish for good things. **"春" (Haru)** means "spring" in Japanese, representing the season. Spring stands for new starts and growth. Many names include it for a fresh and lively feel.

## Trivia

* Derived from Luka's hand-drawn missing person notice for Yuki, it provides a description of Yuki's tangible features. Yuki possesses distinctive traits such as white hair and beast-like ears. He is often seen wearing dark olive-green gloves and bears a scar on his left cheek. In terms of stature, Yuki stands slightly above 140cm and boasts a slender build. Luka's depiction also reveals Yuki's age, clarifying that he is 11 years old.

## References

*Gokurakugai* Manga: Chapter 1 (Page 18). — From the handrawn missing poster drawn by Luka.