Makoto Yamai

Makoto is confident, image-conscious and somewhat narcissistic. He knows that he is considered attractive and enjoys showing off his unusually long eyelashes, even balancing matchsticks on them.

His flamboyant manner does not prevent him from taking karuta seriously. Blowing his bangs becomes an observable signal that he has switched into a more focused competitive state.

Makoto also has a softer side around Rion Yamashiro. He initially complains about her impassive demeanor and about lineup decisions involving her, but his reactions increasingly reveal concern for her.

Makoto is a Class A player and one of Fujisaki's strongest competitors. His rank and position as vice-captain place him among the experienced core of a club known for physical conditioning and roster depth.

He trains under Sakurazawa's demanding system, which emphasizes the stamina necessary to survive multiple high-level matches in a single tournament.

Makoto's seriousness can be read through his physical mannerisms. Tsutomu Komano initially misinterprets his habit of blowing his bangs as frustration before realizing it signals increased concentration.

Makoto is introduced with Fujisaki during the National High School Karuta Championship. As vice-captain, he forms part of the experienced group that makes Fujisaki a formidable obstacle in the team tournament.

He continues to appear in later competitive settings alongside other Fujisaki players. His concern for Rion adds a personal thread to his otherwise tournament-focused role.

Rion Yamashiro is Makoto's younger teammate. Makoto initially reacts negatively when Rion Yamashiro receives an important lineup position, but his subsequent reactions make his affection for her increasingly apparent.

Midori Sakurazawa coaches Makoto and oversees the demanding training program that shapes Fujisaki's players.

Ryoga Emuro is Fujisaki's captain and competes alongside vice-captain Makoto as part of the team's senior core.

Tsutomu Komano observes Makoto closely while scouting Fujisaki and learns to interpret his distinctive match behavior.