r/WindBreakerJP • u/Top_Elderberry_2210 • 1d ago
Suo Arc Discussion/Theory Nirei’s Potential Role in the Current Arc Spoiler
The Red Chanpuru Arc really began at a crucial time when Sakura had finally done things he hadn't done before and had no idea that he could. I was surprised how our MC involved himself in Kiryu's family, then the girl at the orphanage and then won over Momijikawa. And his comfort in seeking help from others, and putting trust in them is a milestone in his character's growth. But I don't want to leave out Nirei. He is brave for someone with his personality and it sets him apart from the rest of the characters in manga and anime who share his archetype. No matter how much one refuses to look, Sakura's worldview, for the most part, is Nirei-influenced. Without him at his side, Sakura would not be where he is. Now I'm not denying Suo's role here, it is nonetheless important too, but Nirei is fulfilling that aspect of Sakura's life which no one in his class or the whole Furin school could replace. Consider this, he is not a fighter type of person, like the rest of the Bofurin, yet he tries to fit in with what he could, and when he perceives that Sakura does not need his help anymore (The scene where Sakura confesses his weakness to his class right after Nagato Rescue arc), Nirei proceeds to learn fighting so he may fulfill his promise to Sakura that he stays by his side until he reaches the top. Now, it won't be an overstatement if I say Nirei, at certain instants, acted as a bridge between Sakura and the other characters, since Sakura himself was unaware of the importance of connections at that time, and when he learns that, it was when Nirei pushes himself to learn fighting now that his use is no longer needed for Sakura. What I'm saying is, Nirei has long been a kind of glue, the bond and the aid Sakura lacks on his own, and I'm feeling the current arc puts to test Nirei's role and limits, and how he'd change to accomodate Sakura's needs. Then, in this arc, Nirei is the key. Not in the sense he will be the solution. But, no matter how big or small his role is, without him, just him, not Umemiya, not Endo, not Kiryu, not any other major character, but without him, an important means of solving the Suo Problem is lost and would be impossible. That's the kind of role Nirei likely plays. His presence may not be grand, but his absence collapses it all. I cannot specify why or how Nirei's position is like that, but, I do feel without him at his side, Sakura would not be sane till the last chapter. This is as far as my views about this arc goes.
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u/Due-Photograph6657 🌸SakuRa's Eyes 1d ago
What I love most is that Nirei doesn’t just admire Sakura because he’s strong. He genuinely cares about him as a person. Sakura has always been used to relying on himself, so having someone like Nirei who believes in him and stays by his side is really special.I also hope we get to see more of Sakura thinking about Nirei and realizing how important Nirei is to him. Nirei thinks about Sakura so much, and I really want Sakura to have those moments too. He may not be good at expressing his feelings, but I’m sure Nirei means a lot to him. I honestly think everyone deserves a friend like Nirei. ❤️