Nakoruru

Nakoruru (ナコルル) is a fictional character in the SNK fighting game series *Samurai Shodown* (also known as *Samurai Spirits* in Japan). She is one of the series' most popular and well-known characters, alongside the main protagonist Haohmaru, and was introduced in the original *Samurai Shodown* in 1993. Nakoruru is a kind-hearted, young Ainu shrine maiden who loves nature and fights evil with the help of her hawk sidekick, Mamahaha. She has a younger sister named Rimururu, and an aggressive, bloodthirsty alter ego known as Rera. As one of SNK's popular mascots, Nakoruru has appeared in many other games and media. In the *Samurai Shodown* series, she is usually portrayed as a guardian of nature. She has the ability to communicate with nature, enhance her blade with energy, reflect projectiles using her cloak, and heal wounds with the power of nature. Her weapon is an Ainu short sword called the "Chichi-ushi," and in combat, she uses her agility to overcome the short range of her weapon. Nakoruru is also notable for being one of the first fighting game characters to be resurrected after sacrificing herself.