Mahiru Kozuki (
Profile
Mahiru is a typical high school girl who follows the philosophy of "nothing matters." Despite being sensitive, she often gets upset over small things, although she truly cares about others.
When she was young, Mahiru used to draw illustrations under the pseudonym "Yoru Kurage." However, something happened that made her stop for a while. Now, she struggles with feeling different and tries to blend in with everyone else.
But then, she meets Kano, and everything changes. Kano helps her see that it's okay to be unique, and Mahiru's life starts to feel special again.
Appearance
Mahiru is a regular girl who prefers casual and everyday clothing, especially when she's out for a leisurely stroll. She has short brown hair, with her bangs styled in a V-shape at the center, and her eyes are also brown.
Personality
Mahiru often doubts herself and feels like she's just average, especially when she compares herself to others like Kano, who she sees as really special. She cares a lot about her art, like her jellyfish mural, and gets really attached to it emotionally. Sometimes she feels shy or unsure, especially when she's thanking someone or defending her artwork. But even though she feels this way inside, she still finds the courage to stand up for what she believes in, even if it's hard. Mahiru is easily affected by things from her past that hurt her, like feeling rejected, and it makes it tough for her to share her passions with others.
Despite her doubts, Mahiru loves her art, especially drawing. She's really good at it and can make beautiful and emotional pieces, even though she might hold back from fully embracing her talent because of her insecurities. She doesn't always speak up to defend her art when it's not treated right because she's still finding her voice.
Background
Mahiru Kozuki, once known as "Yoru Kurage" during her time as an illustrator, had seemingly become an ordinary high school girl, blending into the crowd without standing out. Her past as an illustrator carried both pride and pain. She had won a prize for her jellyfish mural, a testament to her artistic talent. However, when she proudly showed it to her old friends, they found it weird and unimpressive, leaving Mahiru feeling rejected and reluctant to share her passion for illustration ever again.
Despite her past traumas, Mahiru found herself drawn into an unexpected encounter with a mysterious girl named Kano Yamanouchi. Kano's admiration for Mahiru's jellyfish mural sparked a connection between them. As they interacted, Mahiru learned of Kano's past as an idol and her current identity as JELEE, an anonymous singer inspired by Mahiru's artwork. This revelation illuminated Kano's struggles and resilience in pursuing her passion.
As Mahiru and Kano's relationship developed, Mahiru grappled with feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy compared to Kano's perceived specialness. Despite Kano's reassurances and admiration for Mahiru's work, Mahiru struggled to believe in her own abilities. However, Kano's acknowledgment of Mahiru's impact on her challenged Mahiru's perception of herself and their dynamic, fostering a deeper understanding between them.
Amidst their growing partnership, Mahiru delved into Kano's past, uncovering conflicts and tensions from her time as an idol under the name Nonoka Tachibana. Sensing potential complications, Mahiru anticipated challenges that may arise in their collaboration.
Despite their differences and past traumas, Mahiru and Kano's reconciliation on Halloween night marked a new beginning for their partnership. Their formalized collaboration held the promise of creativity and growth, bridging their individual talents into a harmonious union.
Relationships
Kaho Kozuki
Kaho is Mahiru's younger sister. Their relationship with each other was marked by moments of disagreement and caution. When Kaho filmed Mahiru sleeping and insisted on potentially sharing the footage online, Mahiru scolded her sister, emphasizing the importance of privacy and warning against seeking popularity through trivial means.
Kiui Watase
Mahiru's relationship with Kiui evolved from a casual acquaintance to a significant connection as they shared personal moments and discussions. Kiui provided support and understanding, particularly during Mahiru's reflections on her artwork and past experiences. Despite Mahiru's initial self-doubt and hesitancy, Kiui played a pivotal role in encouraging Mahiru to pursue collaboration with Kano and to embrace her talents with confidence.
Kano Yamanouchi
Mahiru's relationship with Kano began when Kano expressed admiration for Mahiru's jellyfish mural, which Mahiru drew way back then. As they conversed, Mahiru felt a connection with Kano, particularly when Kano defended Mahiru's artwork in public. Despite Mahiru's initial shyness, they bonded over their shared appreciation for creativity.
Their relationship deepened as Kano revealed her true identity as JELEE, an anonymous singer inspired by Mahiru's art. Kano's revelation of her past as Nonoka Tachibana, a former idol with a troubled history, highlighted her vulnerability and complexity, strengthening Mahiru's understanding and empathy towards her.
Despite Mahiru's self-doubt, Kano saw potential in their collaboration, eager to combine their talents. Although Mahiru initially struggled to accept her own abilities, Kano's encouragement and admiration gradually helped her gain confidence. Their partnership then became official on Halloween night, marking the beginning of a promising collaboration between the two of them.
Etymology
The fullname "Mahiru Kozuki" (
- 光 (Kou): This character means "light" or "shine" and is pronounced as "Kou." It represents brightness and radiance.
- 月 (Zuki): This character means "moon" and is pronounced as "Zuki." It symbolizes the moon's beauty and tranquility.
- まひる (Mahiru): This part is written in hiragana, which represents sounds in Japanese. "ま" (ma) and "ひる" (hiru) together form "Mahiru," meaning "midday" or "noon" in Japanese.
Trivia
- Mahiru used to work as an illustrator under the name "Yoru Kurage." She won a prize for her jellyfish mural and painted it on a wall to which she later showed to her friend where that led her to feel rejected and fearful of sharing her passion for illustrating due to a negative reaction from her friends.
- Mahiru used her Twitter handle, Yoru Umitsuki, when introducing herself to Kano Yamanouchi, indicating a preference for online anonymity or embarrassment over revealing her real name.
- She believed Kano Yamanouchi, the blonde girl, resembled a regal and captivating figure like Cleopatra.
- Mahiru thought Kano had been forced to quit singing but later learned she continued under the alias JELEE.
- On Halloween night, Mahiru and Kano reconciled and formalized their partnership for a promising collaboration.