Nishikino Maki

Nishikino Maki is a first-year student at Otonokizaka Academy and a pivotal member of the school idol group μ's. Born into a prestigious family of doctors, she has been groomed from a young age to follow in her parents' footsteps and inherit the family hospital. This heavy expectation led her to lead a somewhat solitary life, finding solace and expression through the piano in the school's music room until she was scouted by Honoka Kosaka. Visually, Maki is iconic for her shoulder-length, vibrant crimson hair and sharp, intelligent violet eyes. She often carries an air of sophisticated detachment, which many of her peers mistake for arrogance. In reality, Maki is the definition of a 'tsundere'—someone who is frequently defensive and has a difficult time being honest about her feelings. She often hides her embarrassment or affection behind her catchphrase, 'Imi wakannai' (I don't understand you/This makes no sense). Within μ's, she serves as the primary music composer, utilizing her extensive classical training to create the group's unique sound. Despite her mature appearance and intellectual prowess, she possesses a surprisingly innocent and even childish side, famously still believing in Santa Claus. Her public reputation is that of a 'cool beauty' and a musical prodigy, but to her friends, she is a deeply dedicated, albeit stubborn, companion who works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the group's success.