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Spoiler Alert!
This article contains details about plotlines described in the anime.
Do not proceed unless you want to be spoiled.



Maki Nishikino is a main character in Love Live!. She was a first year student at Otonokizaka High School until she graduated at the end of Love Live! The School Idol Movie. She is a member of BiBi, a sub-unit under µ's. Her image color is red.

Background[]

Maki comes from a highly reputable and wealthy family marked by doctors and hospital ownership. She is an only child, and thus, the sole heiress to her family's properties and legacy. Because of this, Maki is spoiled and doted on yet not given any long-term freedom to be anything other than a doctor. Maki respects her parents and does not question their expectations despite the immense pressure to live up to their standards and make them proud.

Although Maki grew up singing and practicing piano, her parents' emphasis on Maki's medical concentration has made her accept that she ultimately must give up her passion for music, this becoming an increasing reality each year she grew older. She always had a notably beautiful voice, and she was able to compose her own music with a piano. Despite music always being her true passion, when Honoka invites her to join µ's, Maki refuses at first in accordance to her self-inflicted pressure to deny herself music in favor of her studies. Ultimately, she is able to admit and accept her true feelings of love for music and join µ's.

Because of Maki's wealth, it is discovered in Season 1 Episode 10 that her parents own a beach house. Therefore, μ's gladly insisted that Maki should go and ask her parents if they could use it, which they allow. In Season 2 Episode 2, it is revealed that her family also owns a vacation house in the mountains.

Personality[]

Maki has the qualities of a tsundere, and she has a hard time admitting her true feelings to her peers. She also has somewhat childish beliefs which are undoubtedly reflections on her somewhat sheltered upbringing. One such example is her uninterrupted belief in Santa Claus, which the rest of the group finds out about while together. Maki continues on to describe (somewhat proudly) how she cleans the chimney for Santa, and how he never misses her house. Nico attempts to disillusion her, but is held back by other members who did not want to ruin Maki's belief.

Maki was initially portrayed as a loner in the first few episodes, and spent her time alone in the music room. Her standoffishness can be attributed to her tsundere qualities in which although she may want to get close to others, she cannot admit that and refuses, as best she can, to show it. Throughout the series, Maki opens up more and more, but elements of her solitude life before µ's crop up from time to time with her awkwardness and inability to properly admit her investment in their friendship.

Maki is also quite stubborn. This was shown when she was invited to play at the beach, as she was withdrawn from the group and not interested in playing with them.

Although Maki is not conceited nor-stuck up, there are moments where her pride combined with her privileged and sheltered upbringing with few other friends lead Maki to unintentionally act insensitively or arrogantly. Despite this, µ's understands that Maki has no such intentions, and usually any questionable interaction with Maki is usually because of her tsundere side preventing her from speaking how she really feels.

Her personality often clashes with Nico Yazawa, such as when she called Nico stubborn during Season 2 Episode 4. Rin, however, tells her "You're one to talk", implying that Maki is stubborn as well.

Clubs and Hobbies[]

Maki is skilled at playing the piano, and is the composer and vocal coach of µ's. Her other hobbies are photography and stargazing. Her special skill is achieving full marks on tests. She also became the Idol Research Club's vice president after the third years graduated.


Appearance[]

Maki has a slim figure. She has semi-long red hair that reaches her shoulders and purple eyes.

Other Data[]

Maki's Diary (December 2010)[2]
Maki Dengeki G's Mag Dec 2010
It was something said about me ever since I was young.

That I, Maki, was the sole princess of this home.
"Study hard for the sake of your parents, so as to someday follow in their footsteps and become an excellent doctor."
On the other hand, it's also something I've become accustomed to hearing.
Possessing a strong will, clever mind, and the cute looks of a doll, the princess named Maki-chan.
Always dressed in cute Western clothing, having tons of wonderful toys, rich enough to make anyone jealous--- things like that.
But this was something I had never wished for even once.
Of course, I respect my parents deeply. I have never once doubted that being a doctor is an amazing profession.
After all, when it comes to studying--- if I work hard, I'll get to be praised by everyone and that makes me feel good, plus--- because I was gifted to begin with, even if I don't study that hard, I can still do just fine--- Fufu♡
But---.
Recently, this is what I think.
Good grades for the sake of becoming a doctor, clothes fit for the high-class restaurants my parents bring me to, learning things deemed as common practice for rich girls such as piano and ballet---.
All of this somehow--- isn't me.
During the holidays, while dressed up unlike myself and heading towards piano class, I had this intense thought.
Just like this--- Staying on the rails my parents laid out for me, is it really fine, Maki?
I'm certain there's something you want to do more than this--- Something like that.
That's why, right now, I'm definitely still waiting.
For someone--- who can rescue me from this cage I'm in.
That person--- Maybe, it might just be you?
Fufufu---♡
Maki's great idol strategy, part one.
First up for this cute Maki--- is to work towards being discovered by you!
For now--- I'm working hard towards becoming the next song's center so--- Support me, okay?

Maki's Holiday (June 2012)[3]
Time: Task Description
7:00 am: Wake Up I sleep in a little bit on mornings when I don't have to set alarms. Take my time to shower♪
8:00 am: Breakfast The menu is cereal in milk. Green smoothie and yogurt.
9:00 am: Study Since I don't have anything special to do this week, I'll just gather my notes. Or so I thought, but then I suddenly remember the last live we had, and check the choreography using the DVD. Just as I thought back then, I might have been a bit late on my movements.
10:00am: Second shower When I finally realize it, I'm all sweaty from dancing. Gotta shower again!
11:00am: Dressing up After drying myself, I get a call from Umi-chan.
1:00pm: Go out Meet at Manseibashi. μ's costume department is searching for new materials. But looking in Akihabara for fashionable clothes--- Maybe the whole concept is a mistake?
3:00pm: Take a break Tea at Vie de France. I like the Choco France♡
4:00pm: Practice Practice for a bit at the park. I won't let myself lose to Hanayo-chan!!
5:00pm: Split!
6:00pm: Go home This is bad. In the end, I didn't study a single bit today~! Even though there's a test at cram school next week...
7:00pm: Dinner Just pasta is fine for dinner. My parents aren't at home because of work anyway!
8:00pm: Study Start studying. I have confidence in my ability to concentrate♡
11:00pm: Piano Play for a bit just before I sleep. It's a time to relieve and relax myself.
12:00am: Go to bed Good night♪ Sleep is nutrition to the skin, gotta get ample sleep♡
Secret Short Cuts Cut 1: Nico & Maki (July 2013)[4]
Secret Short Cuts Cut 1 (Scanlated)
Secret Short Cuts Cut 7: Maki & Kotori (February 2014)[5]
Secret Short Cuts Cut 7 (Scanlated)
Vital Statistics[1]
Studies: ★★★★★

Reflexes: ★
Aggressiveness: ★★★
Conformity: ★★★
Self-confidence: Skyrocketing

~μ's Member Q&A~
What are the classical songs you like?[6]

Asked by 園田涼さん from Chiba Prefecture

Rachmaninoff and Chopin. While his works may be mediocre, Chopin somehow manages to resound with the heart after all--- Rachmaninoff's songs are all difficult, so it definitely tempts my challenging heart. Also, while it can't really be called classical music, I quite like Satie's work♡ It seems I love using the songs that can be used to impress people with the piano.

Aside from the piano, are there any other instruments you're good with?[6]
Asked by 和人さん from Kanagawa Prefecture

I'm quite good with the flute♪ I once performed a duet at a recital too. The differences from the piano which I think are great are that--- it's an instrument I can play while walking around, so I can perform it outside wherever I want. It'll be great if I could play to my heart's content in front of everyone on a stage someday♡

When making μ's songs, what are the things you have in mind?[6]
Asked by 夏音さん from Kanagawa Prefecture

Preferably, I try to make songs that everyone can sing easily and will enjoy singing together. You can't add even basic vocals into classical music--- and opera songs have too wide a vocal range; in the end, even if it's the same sort of "music", it's a song that's completely different from the songs that idols sing--- I felt something like that for the first time with μ's. Though I'm still just a beginner, I want to continue working hard to make great songs from here onwards---.

When your composing isn't going anywhere, what do you do?[6]
Asked by キミハウスさん from Saga Prefecture

Lately, I--- usually end up calling any one of the members, I think? When I hit a mental block at night, I start to think things like "Aah jeez, it seems that I might be talentless!", but once I talk to someone at times like those--- Suddenly, good ideas would float to the top of my head. Fufu. The things we talk about have absolutely no relation to music--- like ramen, the school courtyard's flower beds, the latest fashions, how well the seasonal manjuus are selling--- Just frivolous things like that. As expected, great friends--- Ah no, having a change of pace is important♪

What's your favorite tomato dish?[6]
Asked by ゴマゴマさん from Kumamoto Prefecture

Lately, my favorites are tomato chowder with lots of clams, and ratatouille. Though tomatoes aren't the main ingredient for either of those--- the season now is great for fresh tastes. Once summer gets here, it'll be the season when tomatoes are the tastiest--- I guess chilled tomato salad is the best after all♡ My recommendation is to have it with a special dressing of black vinegar with tons of finely-chopped onions♪

Between tomatoes and Nico-chan, which do you like more? I like Maki-chan ^^[6]
Asked by もりりんさん from Hyogo Prefecture

Ufufu--- Thank you♡ Of course, I--- like tomatoes more♪ Whether it's pizza, pasta, soup, or salad. Tomatoes are useful because they go great with all sorts of dishes, so they're wonderful♡ Nico-chan cannot possibly match up to this flawless cooperative nature!! One doesn't even need to compare the two to know it's the tomato's victory♪ Hmm yes, if Nico-chan was a vegetable, she would probably be a ginkgo nut or a bitter-gourd? Both of them have such strong individualities--- Ah, this talk is to be kept secret from Nico-chan. Definitely, okay!?

Audio[]

Does not work on iPad, or any medium that does not support the .ogg audio format.
No. Songs Duration Audio
01 Hajimemashite -Nishikino Maki[7] 2:17
02 Anata to Kurisumasu -Maki Nishikino-[8] 1:03


Songs[]

The songs featuring Maki are:

Chronology[]

Ep. Title
01 "Come True! Our Dreams!"
(叶え!私たちの夢―― "Kanae! Watashitachi no Yume")
140 S1Ep1
In Episode 1, Honoka Kosaka overhears Maki playing the piano and singing "Aishiteru Banzai!" inside one of the music rooms. Honoka asks Maki if she wants to become a school idol, but Maki quickly declines.
02 "Let's Start Becoming Idols!"
(アイドルを始めよう! "Aidoru wo Hajimeyou!")
295 S1Ep2
In Episode 2, Honoka asks Maki to compose a song for them, but she declines. However, Honoka manages to get Maki to read the lyrics Umi Sonoda composed. After class, Maki remembers Honoka telling her about them training by the local shrine, and decides to take a look. While watching them train behind a wall, Nozomi Tojo sneaks up on her and grabs her breasts, causing Maki to scream. Nozomi gives Maki advice to secretly help them, and Maki decides to compose a song using Umi's lyrics. She mails the CD to Honoka's house. Maki also votes for them on an idol ranking site. However, when asked about the song, she denies it.
03 "First Live"
(ファーストライブ "Faasuto Raibu")
283 S1Ep3
In Episode 3, Honoka finds Maki watching them practice and calls out to her to ask her to listen to their recorded singing for the song "START:DASH!!".

µ's hold their first live but things did not go as planned when nobody shows up. They perform "START:DASH!!" nevertheless and Hanayo Koizumi comes in, quickly followed by her friend Rin Hoshizora. Maki comes to watch µ's' concert and initially tries to hide before Nozomi notices her.

04 "MakiRinPana"
(まきりんぱな "MakiRinPana" )
287 S1Ep4
In Episode 4, Hanayo goes to Maki's house to return her student ID. Maki explains to Hanayo that she will probably have to quit music to study medicine and inherit her family's hospital. However, she also tells her she will support Hanayo to become an idol. Later on, Maki goes with Hanayo up the rooftop to where μ's is practicing with Hanayo's friend, Rin. Maki and Rin give Hanayo a push to accept μ's offer of joining, and they both decide to join as well.
05 "Nico Attacks"
(にこ襲来 "Niko Shuurai" )
125 S1Ep5
In Episode 5, while in a fast food place, Honoka realizes that there are enough members to form an official club while trying to think of a place to practice during the rainy season. The girls learn that there is already an Idol Research Club. However, a girl named Nico Yazawa is the sole member of the club. The girls ask her if they can merge their groups together, but Nico flatly rejects them, because they do not have personas. After learning from Nozomi that Nico once tried, and failed to become a school idol, Honoka comes up with an idea to join the Idol Research Club and have Nico teach them how to be proper idols. Nico happily accepts.
06 "Who'll Be the Center?"
(センターは誰だ? "Sentaa wa Dare da?" )
315 S1Ep6
In Episode 6, Nozomi films interviews with each member of μ's. When Honoka is being interviewed, Nozomi asks her why she is the leader when she does nothing for the group. It leads to a singing and dancing contest to determine the leader. The member with the most points becomes the leader. In the end, everyone gets similar scores. Honoka suggests that maybe μ's does not need a leader and everyone to agrees with her, while also believing that she is the most worthy of becoming the leader. μ's performs the song "Korekara no Someday."
07 "Elichika"
(エリーチカ "Erichika" )
036 S1Ep7
In Episode 7, Hanayo tells μ's about the Love Live! tournament, a contest where the top 20 school idol groups compete in. The girls go to the chairwoman for permission to enter. The chairwoman tells them that they can enter but only if they all pass the upcoming exams. Maki and Hanayo both help Rin who generally has bad grades. Once the exams are done and everyone passes, everyone goes to the chairwoman's office but overhear her telling the student council president Eli Ayase that the school would be shutting down next year.
08 "What I Want To Do Is..."
(やりたいことは "Yaritai Koto wa" )
326 S1Ep8
In Episode 8, following the events of the previous episode, the chairwoman clarifies to μ's that the school will shut down if the upcoming open day is received negatively. Umi suggests to the group to get Eli to teach them how to dance. Eli agrees to their offer and puts the group into intense training, but is surprised by their willingness to continue. Nozomi tells μ's that Eli wants to join, but believes she can't because of how she treated them in the past. μ's go to Eli and formally invite her to join. Eli becomes honest with her feelings and joins, along with Nozomi who reveals that she came up with the group's name: μ's, which refers to the nine goddesses of music. Coincidentally, there are nine members in μ's. The now complete group performs "Bokura no LIVE Kimi to no LIFE" at the open day to a pleased crowd, making the open day a success.
09 "Wonder Zone"
(ワンダーゾーン "Wandā Zōn" )
123 S1Ep9
In Episode 9, after μ's discover Kotori Minami working secretly in Akihabara, Eli finds Akiba a good place to have a concert and, since Kotori knows it best, assigns Kotori to write lyrics based on Akiba culture. However, Kotori struggles with writing the lyrics, but with the help of Honoka and Umi, Kotori is able to write lyrics to create the new song "Wonder zone" by recalling the feelings she gets whenever she works in Akihabara.
10 "No Upperclassmen Allowed!"
(先輩禁止 "Senpai Kinshi!" )
151 S1Ep10
In Episode 10, μ's decide to go to Maki's beach house after getting permission from her parents. Eli creates a rule that no one is allowed to use the honorifics "senpai" for the duration of the trip, so they can break down the barrier between upper and underclassmen. The girls spend the whole day at the beach playing, but Nozomi and Eli are quick to notice Maki not participating. At night, Nozomi initiates a pillow fight, and all of μ's begin to play except Umi, who is fast asleep. However, two pillows hit Umi while she was sleeping, causing her to get cranky and throw "supersonic pillows" at everyone, hitting Nico, Honoka, and Eli. Just as she was about to hit Hanayo and Rin, Maki hits Umi with a pillow, knocking her out. The episode ends with all the members of μ's finally breaking down the barrier between upper and underclassmen, and holding hands while watching the sunrise.
11 "The Greatest Live Performance"
(最高のライブ "Saikō no Raibu" )
286 S1Ep11
In Episode 11, μ's has managed to reach rank #19 on the school idol ranking site, making them eligible to apply to the Love Live! tournament. This puts pressure on μ's to keep their position. However, Nico fails to win a lottery spin to use the auditorium, causing μ's to think of where to have a concert. Honoka comes up with the idea that they can use the rooftop to hold their performance, and the group hesitantly agrees. On the day of the concert, it's raining, but the group decides to perform anyways. After performing "No brand girls", Honoka faints, surprising μ's and the audience.
12 "Friends"
(ともだち "Tomodachi" )
Ep12 00166
In Episode 12, following the events of the previous episode, μ's go to Honoka's house to check on her. They discover that she's still recovering and has a sprained leg. They sadly tell Honoka that they dropped out of the Love Live! tournament, meaning their ranking was removed. Honoka blames herself for the incident, but μ's tell her that it's everyone's fault, instead. Everyone gets depressed from this event, but Honoka the most. On the rooftop, Maki, Hanayo, and Rin announce that the school has been saved, thus the group decides to have a celebration. At the party, however, Umi and Kotori are noticed to not be in jolly spirits. Umi then reveals to μ's that Kotori is moving to a fashion boarding school for the rest of her high school career. Everyone is surprised by the announcement, but Honoka gets angry at Kotori for not telling her earlier. Kotori explains to her that she wanted to tell them but couldn't, and runs away.

The next day, on the rooftop, μ's reveals that they're planning to do a final live with everybody before Kotori leaves. But Honoka tells them that it was her fault and that none of this would've happened if it wasn't for the accident. The members tell her to stop saying that, but Honoka then says that the school is saved, therefore there's no reason to keep on performing and that it's impossible to go against a group like A-RISE. Honoka tells them that she quits, but before she leaves, Umi slaps her cheek, saying that she didn't think that she's that kind of person and that she's the worst there is.

13 "μ's Music Start!"
(μ'sミュージックスタート! "Myūzu Myūjikku Sutāto!")
Ep13 00146
In Episode 13, Eli decides to put μ's on hiatus. Nico disagrees with Eli, saying that she wants to continue being a school idol. Maki tells her that they can't continue without Honoka. Later, Maki goes into the music room and remembers Honoka clapping after playing "Aishiteru Banzai!". After fetching Kotori at the airport, later on in the episode, Honoka runs into the backstage of the school auditorium and slips, hurting her butt. Kotori also comes in and μ's perform "START:DASH!!", despite wearing their school uniforms, and this time with the auditorium full of people. Afterwards, Honoka tells the crowd to say "μ's Music Start!" and μ's are in the school idol ratings again.

Ep. Title
01 "Love Live! Once Again"
(もう一度ラブライブ! "Mōichido Rabu Raibu!")
S2Ep01 00283
In Episode 1, Princpal Minami announces that Otonokizaka will still accept student applications for next year. After the announcement, the podium is then passed on to the succeeding student council president, Honoka Kosaka, to deliver her speech. Honoka managed to introduce herself but had forgotten the contents of her speech.

At the student council room, Umi scolds Honoka for forgetting her speech that they wrote together then places a large amount of student council work in front of her. Eli arrives at the student council room together with Nozomi to check on the trio.

On the rooftop, Nico shows Rin, Hanayo, and Maki the results of her "special training". Maki tells her that it was disgusting and Nico accidentally told them her true motive for trying to help them. Just then, Hanayo receives a notification on her phone. Hanayo quickly ran to their club room's computer to confirm the news. After confirming, the four of them ran and looked for Honoka. They eventually found her eating bread while sitting under a tree. They told her that it's going to be held once again.

μ's talked about the news about Love Live! being held once more. They were hesitant at first because of the thought that they have to compete against A-RISE for the preliminaries, but after Umi stated that it was too early to give up, they all agreed to give it a shot, except for Honoka who told them that it's okay for them not to enter Love Live!. All of them were shocked at Honoka's statement and asked her if there was anything wrong with her but she said that she was happy just being able to sing and dance with everyone. Honoka then suggests that they all hang out together after school for a change of pace.

That night, the members of μ's, except for Honoka, talked about Honoka's weird behavior. Nozomi told them that the regular dance practices and sessions may be enough for Honoka.

The next day, Nico challenges Honoka to a race to decide whether the group enters Love Live! or not. During the race, Honoka finally understood the meaning of Yukiho's words, as at that time, Eli, Nozomi, and Nico will graduate and no longer be school idols, making this year's Love Live! the last opportunity for μ's to perform together as a group of nine.

Everyone told Honoka their feelings about entering Love Live! making Honoka state her true desire to enter Love Live! as well. They all sang "Susume→Tomorrow" and Honoka told them that they will aim for victory.

02 "Aim for Victory"
(優勝をめざして "Yūshō o Mezashite")
053 S2Ep2
In Episode 2, Hanayo tells everyone that only unreleased songs are allowed to be performed at Love Live!, meaning they can't use any of their existing songs. Eli tells them that they have no choice but to make a new song and decides to go on a camping trip.

They were amazed that Maki's family had a vacation house even at the mountains. When they were about to leave the train station and head for the bus, Rin told them that they might be forgetting something. They forgot about Honoka who was still sleeping on the train.

Everyone was amazed yet again when they saw the house and the things inside. They found out that Maki still believed in Santa when they were talking about the fireplace. Nico was about to laugh and mock her for it but the others prevented her from doing so, claiming that it was a serious crime to say it. After settling down, Maki, Umi, and Kotori proceeded to doing their jobs upstairs while the others proceeded to doing some basic drills outside.

While in the living room, Honoka noticed that Maki wasn't anywhere near the piano and decides to take the tea that Hanayo made to the girls upstairs. Honoka opens the door to where Umi was staying but found no one inside, finding a note on the table stating "Please don't look for me" instead. Panicked, Honoka proceeded to Kotori's room and found no one inside as well, finding a picture on the wall with the words "Help me" instead. Honoka soon noticed that there was cloth tied by the window that leads outside. She looks outside and finds the three sighing.

The others found out that the three were in a slump because of the pressure and decides to split the work to all of them. They decided on forming three groups, with the first group consisting of Kotori, Hanayo and Honoka to work on the costumes, the second group consisting of Umi, Rin and Nozomi to work on the lyrics, and the third group consisting of Maki, Nico, and Eli to work on the music. There was no progress for the first few hours but after hearing some encouraging words from their group mates, the three who're originally assigned for the tasks met on the house and was able to finish everything that night. The others found the three of them sleeping in the living room with their finish products and decided to let them sleep for a while. They immediately started practicing as soon as the three woke up and continued to practice hard even after returning from their trip, aiming to win Love Live!.

03 "The Door to Our Dreams"
(ユメのトビラ "Yume no Tobira")
S2Ep03 00334
In Episode 3, Honoka, Hanayo, and Eli were browsing the Love Live! site. They saw the different stages prepared for the preliminaries. Hanayo told them that because of the number of groups that will enter the preliminaries, they are allowed to perform anywhere other than the concert halls. After practice, μ's talked about the mechanics of the contest. Four groups will be able to move on to the final round of the preliminaries. They also concluded that there will only be three spots to compete for, knowing that A-RISE will get a place for sure. Honoka suggests that they use their school as their stage so that they can perform comfortably. Nico and Hanayo told Honoka that she was naive and that they only have one shot at it. They needed something original to stand out and catch everyone's attention. But before they can decide the place, they still needed to practice being on air so they asked the broadcasting club for help. Honoka, Umi, and Hanayo were the ones who tried out the mic. The results wasn't what they really wanted but at least it was very μ's-like.

After that, μ's decided to look for a place to hold their live but it turns out that they're out of new stages. They looked elsewhere and ended up in front of the UTX building. The group saw A-RISE's promotion and Honoka says that they won't lose. Just then, A-RISE's Tsubasa Kira appeared in front of the second year trio. Tsubasa hushed Honoka before others could see her then she grabbed Honoka's arm and ran, dragging her inside the building. Hanayo and Nico noticed that Tsubasa was there, running with Honoka and chased after them.

A-RISE revealed to μ's that they've been watching and keeping an eye on the group for quite a while. They thought that μ's was going to be their biggest rivals during the last Love Live!. Tsubasa, Erena, and Anju then revealed each of μ's members' good points. Anju and Tsubasa commented on how Maki has a wonderful talent for songwriting and how it beautifully makes a perfect combination with Umi's honest lyrics. Eli asked them why they knew so much and Tsubasa answers that it was because it was rare to see a group with a caliber like μ's and that they didn't want to lose to μ's. Honoka also states that they won't lose either and says thank you to them. Tsubasa then offers to perform with μ's on the same stage, which is their school's rooftop, to which Honoka immediately agrees, surprising the rest of μ's members.

The day of the preliminaries came, A-RISE's Tsubasa and μ's Honoka agreed to give it their all and shook hands. Alisa and Yukiho are shown watching with a laptop at the Kosaka residence. Alisa was worried but Yukiho assured her that they will be fine. A-RISE performed their new song, "Shocking Party". Seeing A-RISE perform, most of μ's members were starting to feel that they can't win. Honoka immediately disagreed and cheered everyone up. Some of there schoolmates came and cheered them on as well. μ's found a new hope and was ready to perform. μ's performed their new song, "Yume no Tobira" and received good responses from their audience.

04 "No. 1 Idol in the Universe"
(宇宙No.1アイドル "Uchuu Nanbā 1 Aidoru")
S2Ep04 00089
In Episode 4, Hanayo checks the site for the results of the preliminaries. When the results came out, µ's was delighted to discover that they have qualified for the next round. Everybody ran out of the room to spread the good news, except for Umi who was left covering her ears.

At the rooftop, Eli announced that only one of the four teams that made it out of the first round will make it to Love Live!. They decide that they have to do their best. Umi then stated that she'd like to start morning practices an hour earlier than usual and they'll have review sessions on Sundays. Eli adds that they need to have focused and well-designed practice sessions. When Honoka was about to say "µ's music start!", she was cut off by Kotori because she feels that they're missing someone. They then realized that Nico was not among them.

They caught up and called out to Nico who was about to go home. Nico said that she's going to have to skip practice because she has other things to do and left. The others decided to follow Nico secretly because she was acting suspicious, but Nico spotted them and was able to escape.

While the others were wondering why Nico was desperate to escape, Hanayo saw a little girl who looks a lot like Nico. They then learned that she was Nico's little sister, Cocoro. While Cocoro was leading them to their home, they learned that Nico told her siblings that she was the center of µ's and the others were her backup dancers. After arriving at the Yazawa residence, they met Cotaro, Nico's little brother who also believed that they were backup dancers. There, they saw the posters of µ's that were edited to make it look like Nico was the center in all of them.

After some time, Nico arrived and they chased after her once again. Nico wasn't able to escape this time because her other little sister, Cocoa, met her in front of the elevator. Nico apologized and explained that she was skipping practice to look after her siblings and that she's been telling them that she was a super idol from the beginning.

On the way home, Nozomi tells the others that Nico was telling her siblings all that even after she failed to become a super idol in her first year because she didn't want their vision of her to be destroyed. After hearing this, the girls arrange for Nico to give a special performance for her siblings, claiming it to be her last performance as a 'solo idol' before joining her fellow idols as equals in μ's.

05 "A New Me"
(新しいわたし "Atarashī Watashi")
S2Ep05 00388
In Episode 5, µ's prepares for a performance in a fashion event on the weekend, however, the second years are on their school trip in Okinawa and both Eli and Nozomi are busy taking care of student council work, leaving the other four to practice with themselves. Rin thought that the second years must be having a blast with their trip, but in reality, they weren't enjoying much because of the storm.

When Eli told Rin that she's going to be the temporary leader, Rin isn't confident in herself and ends up struggling with the responsibilities.

On the way home, Rin still feels that she isn't cut out to be the leader, earning some encouraging words from Hanayo and Maki but Rin didn't believe them because she believes that she isn't cute enough like the others and that she's different from them. After saying that she'll continue being the temporary leader until Honoka gets back, Rin ran.

Hanayo tells Maki about how Rin has a complex about her boyish looks, which she was often teased about during elementary school.

After Eli told the others that the second years wouldn't make it back in time for the performance, it was decided that Rin would take the center for their performance. Rin feels she isn't cute enough for the fancy dress given to the center and passes on the role to Hanayo, though the others can tell she is bothered about it.

On the day of the event, the group arranges for Rin to wear the dress whilst everyone else wears groom outfits, feeling it fits her the most. Rin was still in denial at first but Hanayo and Maki encouraged her with their feelings. Rin finally accepted and wore the dress, receiving some compliments from the audience. The six members then performed the song "Love wing bell" and the event turns out to be a huge success. Rin then decides to be more confident with expressing her femininity and decides to wear a skirt for practice making everyone happy for her.

06 "Happy Halloween"
(ハッピーハロウィーン "Happī Harouīn")
S2Ep06 00355
In Episode 6, Eli told the other members about µ's and A-RISE being invited to the Halloween event. Nico then declared that they should make a stronger impact than A-RISE.

While using mascots, Honoka, Kotori, Nico, and Maki talked about how the impact from the Halloween performance would give them advantages for the final round of the preliminaries. Eli then reminded them that A-RISE won the last contest and that they are much known than them.

µ's tried changing their outfits in search for the impact they're looking for but it didn't work out. They tried impersonating each other next but it didn't work out as well. Eli then suggested that they try not to present themselves as idols, resulting to µ's sporting a rock look, which didn't work out as well. Principal Minami even called them to her office because of it.

On the day of their performance, Honoka thinks that they don't need to change themselves, as they already have quite varied members themselves, and they perform together with their natural abilities. µ's performs the song "Dancing stars on me!" and aims to win Love Live!.

07 "We Have to Do Something!"
(なんとかしなきゃ! "Nantoka Shinakya!")
S2Ep07 00214
In Episode 7, while in the club room, Hanayo brought out a big rice ball to eat. Hanayo offered some to Honoka after seeing her stare at the rice ball before being stopped by Umi. The three first years then finds out that Honoka is on a diet. Hanayo already ate half of the rice ball when Rin and Maki told her that she's been gaining weight lately as well.

Umi made a diet plan for Honoka and Hanayo. The two of them were consoling each other when a group of three first years appeared and asked them for autographs. A first year complimented Umi's figure, the other complimented Kotori's, while the last one complimented Honoka's energy instead.

While climbing the stairs to the shrine, Honoka and Hanayo found it harder to reach the top than before. Nico told them that it was because of the extra weight. Later, Umi found out that Honoka and Hanayo were sneaking off during their runs to eat rice. After letting them explain themselves, Hanayo was told that she regained her past weight while Honoka's weight did not change at all.

Honoka and the others soon found out that the Art Club's budget request was approved before the budget meeting. They tried to talk to the girl from the Art Club but it did not work. Eli and Nozomi offered to help but Honoka said that it was their mistake and that they should fix it themselves.

After working hard to fix everything and making a budget plan for all the clubs, Honoka, Kotori, and Umi managed to end the budget meeting well. During the process of fixing everything, Honoka told everyone that she forgot to eat and managed to regain her old weight. Nozomi and Eli are then left assured that the student council is in good hands.

08 "My Wish"
(私の望み "Watashi no Nozomi")
339 S2Ep08
In Episode 8, Honoka announces during an interview that µ's will definitely win Love Live!. Everyone was amazed and surprised at the sudden declaration of victory.

Nico asked Honoka why she said that all of a sudden. Maki told her that since they're really aiming to win Love Live!, it shouldn't be a problem. Umi agreed and said that A-RISE did say that the last round of the preliminaries would be as competitive as the Love Live! itself. Eli then told everyone to decide on which song they want to perform with. Nico suggested that they go for a new song . Nozomi then suggested that they make it a love song which surprised everyone. Hanayo told them that love songs are necessary for idol groups but µ's has yet to sing one. They asked Umi why there haven't been any love songs for µ's and Nozomi answered that it's because Umi has no romantic experience yet. Maki told them that it's too late to make a new song anyway but Eli disagreed and said that she thinks it's too early to give up. Though everyone wonders how they'd write a love song, Nozomi thought of an idea. They tried practicing giving gifts but the idea didn't help.

On the way home, Maki told them that she still thinks it's better if they don't take the risk. Umi agrees and believes that they should focus on perfecting what they already have instead. Most of the members agreed as well but Eli said that she still thinks that a love song would be powerful and that Nozomi's predictions are usually spot on. Honoka then said that they think about a little more.

Maki thought that Eli's acting strange and talked about it with Rin and Hanayo. Maki said that Eli's too fixated on writing a love song. Rin imagined that maybe Eli's with A-RISE and she's been fooling everyone, though Maki said that it's impossible. Hanayo asked Maki what could be the reason then. Maki doesn't know, but she's sure that there's a reason behind Eli's actions.

While at Honoka's house, everyone tried to come up with ideas once again. Kotori suggested that they watch a romance movie for reference, however Maki says that these halfhearted efforts to write a new song will lower the quality of their performance. After finally deciding on using the songs they already have, they decided on calling it a day and go home.

Maki follows Eli and Nozomi and stops them before they go separate ways. Maki wanted to know what's going on and called Nozomi a troublesome person. Nozomi then takes Eli and Maki to her home, where Maki learns that Nozomi's wish isn't to write a love song, but rather to perform a song that all of μ's wrote together. Nozomi explains that she didn't have any friends at school before meeting Eli, and that the formation of μ's allowed the nine of them to be connected and share the same feelings. Nozomi says that it doesn't matter if they aren't able to create the song, since the nine of them being together is already a miracle.

Maki and Eli decided to call over the others, and deciding to go ahead with writing the song. Hanayo saw a picture frame with a picture of their "START:DASH!!" performance. Nozomi grabbed it immediately, feeling embarrassed. It soon began to snow, and the girls ran outside. Each and every one of them caught a snowflake, and are lyrically inspired.

09 "Melody of the Heart"
(心のメロディ "Kokoro no Merodi")
294 S2Ep09
In Episode 9, the day of the final preliminaries arrives. Rin and Hanayo stopped by Maki's house to go to the venue together. While waiting for Maki to come out, Rin complained because of the cold weather. Hanayo told her that the snow would clear up in the afternoon. Maki then comes out with the food that her mother prepared for them.

At school, the teacher said that they'll be starting the open house an hour later that scheduled because of the weather. Honoka called Eli to tell them the situation. Eli said that she'll explain the situation to the staff and they'll rehearse with six members.

While accommodating the guests, Honoka received a call from Eli. Eli apologized and said that they arrived at the venue. Nozomi said that with a venue that big, they'll need all 9 members of µ's. Eli told Honoka to come immediately after they're done.

Rin and Hanayo looked at the stage, amazed that they would be able sing there. Maki asked Eli if anyone would even watch them since it's still snowing. A-RISE suddenly arrived and told them that the place would be full of people later. Erena noticed that µ's was missing some members. Eli told them that Honoka and the others would be late because of a school event but they'll be there by the time they perform. Tsubasa then asked Eli to tell Honoka and the others that both µ's and them should give it their best, and that they won't lose.

With Honoka, Kotori, and Umi rejoining the others just in time, the girls of μ's take on the feelings of all of their supporters and perform the song that they all wrote together. They performed the song "Snow halation".

10 "µ's"
(µ's "Myūzu")
27 S2Ep10
In Episode 10, on their way to the local shrine, Honoka, Kotori and Umi met with Hanayo and Rin who says that Maki was with them a while ago but hid because she was embarrassed. When Maki showed herself, the three who just met with them complimented her. Just then, the girls run into A-RISE, who congratulated them on winning the Love Live! preliminaries.

After praying, they went to greet Nozomi, Nico and Eli, who are helping out at the shrine. After the third years left, Hanayo worried about the third years' graduation. Umi stopped her saying that they have agreed not to bring the topic up until Love Live! was over. Honoka then told them that for the third years' sake, they should give it their best.

With μ's needing to make an impression to give them an advantage during Love Live!, Hanayo suggests they come up with a group catchphrase for the official website that best represents the group.

The next day, the girls get together at Honoka's store to make mochi for all of their supporters, thinking that it would help them come up with their catchphrase, though they still weren't able to come up with one.

Later, upon encountering people's ema at the shrine giving their support for μ's, Honoka comes to understand the group's driving force came from everyone's support and decides on the catchphrase, "The story we all realize."

11 "That Which We Decided"
(私たちが決めたこと "Watashi-tachi ga Kimeta Koto")
103 S2Ep11
In Episode 11, at the club room, with one month left until Love Live!, Umi explains their training schedule. Everyone noticed that it was not strict like usual. Umi answered that she followed A-RISE's advice and left some free days. Umi noticed that Honoka was quiet and asked if she was paying attention. Maki then brought up the topic about Alisa and Yukiho passing and that led to talking about the third years' graduation. Everyone got depressed, but Eli told them that they agreed not to talk about it until after Love Live! and started practice.

While training, Honoka was still thinking about what Yukiho said, making Umi and Kotori notice. Umi asked her what she wants to do and Honoka answered that she wants to continue being a school idol but she's not sure about staying as µ's. Nico told them to continue and that they have to keep the name. Nozomi then stopped the conversation and said that they agreed not to talk about it. Hanayo asked if it was really fine that way, saying that they have to give Yukiho and Alisa an honest answer. Hanayo thinks that µ's has to be the nine of them and that it will be different even with just one person missing. Maki agrees but understands what Nico's saying, so it might be best to just keep going. They then asked Eli for her opinion, but Eli told them that it was Honoka and the others' decision to make.

On the way home, Umi told them that it was better that they talked about it because it wouldn't have been good for them to compete with unresolved issues. Honoka told them that Eli was right. They'll be the ones that would be staying next school year so they have to be the ones to decide.

Honoka called the others on a Sunday to have fun. Since they couldn't decide on one place, they decided to go to all the places that each of them wants to go to. After having fun at many places, Honoka decided that she wants to go watch the sea with just the nine of them there.

After arriving at the beach, they had a little fun and held hands. Honoka decided to say their decision about what would happen to µ's once the third years graduate. She said that it turned out that all six of them had the same decision about it. They decided that after Love Live!, µ's will disband. Eli and Nozomi agreed with their decision but Nico thought that if they disband, what she worked hard for will all be for nothing. Maki then promised her that no matter what happens, they'll continue to be idols but they want µ's to be theirs alone and that they don't want a µ's without Nico and the others. Just then, Honoka shouted, surprising everyone, and saying that they'll miss the train if they don't hurry back.

Everyone ran at full speed but it turns out that there were still many trains left. Honoka said that it was because she was afraid that they would never stop crying if they stayed there and decides to take a picture with everyone.

At the train station, while laughing at the pictures, Hanayo started to cry. Everyone ended up crying a lot as well. Nico ended up crying the most, despite saying she wasn't going to cry.

With just one week left until their last performance, µ's decided to prepare and give it their best together.

12 "Last Live"
(ラストライブ "Rasuto Raibu")
291 S2Ep12
In Episode 12, Nico was able to draw the last number for the performance order, much to everyone's delight.

At the club room, Nico felt proud of her accomplishment, but nobody seems to appreciate it that much. Eli then said that they should start their practice.

After practice, Hanayo realized that it was their last practice, making everyone realize it and feel down as well. Nico then told them that they shouldn't feel sad and just focus on Love Live!.

µ's went to their local shrine and prayed together. After praying, the girls find it difficult to part ways. Honoka then suggested to have a sleepover at school.

At school, they set up their beds and found out that it fitted perfectly. Umi asked if it was really okay to have a sleepover at school. Kotori said that her mom approved of it. Afterwards, they ate the dinner that Nico and Hanayo prepared. Later on, Honoka and Rin wanted to do something exciting like test of courage. The girls then found out that Eli was afraid of the dark. Honoka noticed that the stars looked beautiful and suggested that they go to the rooftop to see. The girls were mesmerized by how the city looked like and shouted out their feelings.

The next day, the girls arrive at the venue for Love Live! finals. Wearing their new and cute costumes, µ's performed the song "KiRa-KiRa Sensation!". The audience loved it so much that they called for an encore. µ's then performed the song "Bokura wa Ima no Naka de", wearing the costume that their schoolmates prepared for them.

13 "Come True! Everyone's Dream"
(叶え!みんなの夢―― "Kanae! Minna no Yume")
438 S2Ep13
In Episode 13, at the school gates, Honoka met with Rin, Maki, and Hanayo. They then met Nico's mother along with Nico's siblings and even discovered Nico's unexpected side. Nico showed her family their trophy from winning Love Live!, earning her a "congratulations" from her mother. Maki then reminded Honoka the reason she had to go to school on time.

During the ceremony, after Principal Minami congratulated the graduates, it was now Honoka's turn to deliver her speech. Honoka stated that she wasn't really good at expressing herself with words but she loved singing, therefore, instead of a speech, she dedicated a song for the seniors instead. With Maki playing the piano, everyone joined Honoka and sang "Aishiteru Banzai!".

At the club room, Nico cleaned up her personal stuff, leaving the shelf completely empty. Hanayo said that with all the stuff gone, it feels a little empty and lonely. Nico then said that they should just have the next club president bring some stuff from home. Nico decided to make Hanayo the next club president because they all felt that she's the right person for the job. When Hanayo finally agreed to become the president, she assigned Maki to be the vice-president.

The girls decided to have a last look around the school. Arriving at the rooftop where everything began, Honoka gives a proper sendoff to the name of μ's.

At the school gates, before the girls can get a chance to part ways, Hanayo received some 'big news', prompting everyone to rush back to the club room.

Vol. Title
01 Love Live! School idol project 1
02 Love Live! School idol project 2
03 Love Live! School idol project 3
04 Love Live! School idol project 4

Etymology[]

  • The name Maki means "real, genuine" (真) (ma) and "princess, young lady of noble birth" (姫) (ki).
  • Maki's surname Nishikino means "west" (西) (nishi), "tree, wood" (木) (ki) and "field, wilderness" (野) (no).

Trivia[]

  • Maki fulfills the cool attribute of the µ's first years.
  • One of Maki's famous lines is "Nani sore? Imi wakannai." (何それ?意味分かんない。), literally meaning "What's that? I don't understand you" or "I don't get it".
  • For some unstated reason, Maki's summer uniform's cardigan is not yellow (like the others), but a shade of gray.
  • Nico is the only member of μ's Maki addresses using honorifics, specifically "Nico-chan".
  • The lowest score Maki has ever obtained for a test was 68, which led to an argument with her father and almost being forced to leave μ's. Her father only relented after the other members visited Maki's house to persuade him to let her continue her school idol activities. Umi, being an heiress to a family business as well, was instrumental in convincing him.[9]
    • This conflict was not shown in the anime adaptation at all, with her father seemingly supportive of her activities by letting them use their holiday homes as well as sending her to the airport in the movie.
  • As well as the piano, Maki is also very skilled at playing the flute, having performed at a recital in the past.[6] A recent card illustration in the Love Live! School Idol Festival ALL STARS game also shows Maki playing violin.[10]
  • Maki is shown to have a maid in the manga adaptation of School Idol Diary,
  • Maki has seen the Harry Potter movies, but it is unknown whether or not she has also read the books. She comments on some of the scenes that are so scary that she "had to close her eyes".[11]
  • While it was not said how Maki got into Otonokizaka in the anime, it was her parents' decision in the manga.
    • In addition to this, in the manga, she wanted to go to UTX and bonded with Nico because of this.
  • According to the SIFAS Event "Music Made Together", Maki's birth flower is the Delphinium.
  • Maki is 15, she is the first Love Live! character who's age has been canonically confirmed.

Other[]

Gallery[]

Please refer to this character's Image Gallery.

References[]

  1. 1.0 1.1 Love Live! First Fan Book
  2. Dengeki G's Magazine December 2010 issue
  3. Dengeki G's Magazine June 2012 issue. Translation note: That's really the tone in which it's written. This was from before the anime, when Maki had quite a different character.
  4. Dengeki G's Magazine July 2013 issue
  5. Dengeki G's Magazine February 2014 issue
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 Dengeki G's Magazine July 2015 issue
  7. Bokura no LIVE Kimi to no LIFE Single
  8. Snow halation Single
  9. Love Live! School idol diary ~Nishikino Maki~ Chapter 2: First Rebellious Phase
  10. Love Live! School Idol Festival ALL STARS Card Maki Nishikino "A Serenade for You"
  11. Love Live! School idol diary ~Nishikino Maki~ Chapter 4: Seven Otonaki Wonders
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