Okudaira, Akira
Seiyuu / Dub
Summary
Akira is an optimistic and supportive individual who constantly seeks to comfort those in need and solve their problems, even when she knows she should stay out of it. Although easily embarrassed, she is not shy or reserved, often taking an aggressive stance in difficult situations. Disliking the sight of others in pain, she tries to prevent potential distress for those around her. On their first day of high school, she rescues Fumi from a pervert on a train to school. Walking with the tall girl, she finds her elegant and gentle, wondering if they will meet again, only to be shocked when she discovers Fumi is her childhood friend. Their bond is rekindled after Manjoume Yoshie visits Okudaira Shouko, bringing Fumi along, as their mothers are close friends. In their childhood, Akira was taller than Fumi and acted as her protector, though Ah-chan notes that despite Fumi growing taller, she still requires care. Akira can be neglectful of both others and herself when Fumi needs attention. She attends Fujigaya Girls' Academy, an elite institution requiring entrance exams, where she initially feels alienated among students who have attended the school since elementary and middle school. This feeling fades when she befriends Ikumi Kyouko, who becomes her closest friend at the academy. Akira joins the prestigious Drama Club as a stagehand and secures a role in the second-year school production of The Deer Cry Pavillion. Despite her childish appearance and behavior, Akira possesses a deep understanding of people. She is highly astute to others' feelings, often figuring things out without direct explanation. She realizes Kyouko may have romantic interests in girls and understands when Fumi comes out of the closet. She even reprimands Yasuko for hurting Fumi. Akira feels helpless and depressed when she realizes she cannot protect Fumi from the difficulties in her love life. She has an overprotective brother, Shinobu, who inserts himself into her social life, such as dropping her off at school or accompanying her to mixers to ward off boys. Although Sawanoi Kou, Kyouko's cousin, shows interest in her and invites her on group dates, Akira feels unready for dating. She claims she does not fully comprehend romantic love or what one should feel in relationships, wondering if she is immature. Her love life seems unimportant to her, as her primary concerns revolve around her friends and helping them when needed.
