Series & First Appearance
Mei Aihara is a prominent character from the anime and manga series Citrus, which was created by Saburouta. The series first debuted in the October 2012 issue of Comic Yuri Hime. Mei Aihara makes her initial appearance in Chapter 1 of the manga.
Profile at a Glance
Mei Aihara is a 16-year-old secondary school student, serving as the student council president at Ohmitsu High School and the granddaughter of its chairman. While she exhibits a composed and serious demeanor, there is an underlying sensitivity to her character. Mei’s role in the series is multifaceted, straddling both protagonist and antagonist moments, especially in her evolving relationship with Yuzu Aihara, her step-sister.
Personality & Motivations
Mei is characterized as stern, cold, and often distant, presenting a facade of maturity that can make her appear unapproachable. However, she is deeply sensitive and can experience loneliness, which drives her emotional development. Initially, she comes off as a strict authority figure, leading Yuzu to form a negative impression of her. Yet, over time, Mei’s layers are peeled back to reveal her vulnerabilities, sparking her growth. A notable quirk is her struggle with expressing her emotions, particularly her romantic feelings towards Yuzu.
Abilities / Powers
While Mei Aihara does not possess supernatural abilities, she excels academically, earning high marks that affirm her status as an honor student. Her leadership skills as student council president highlight her ability to motivate and manage her peers. One significant aspect of her character is her fortitude during emotional turmoil. However, her stoicism often limits her ability to connect with others on a deeper level, creating tension in her relationships.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout Citrus, Mei undergoes considerable character development. A pivotal storyline occurs when her relationship with Yuzu progresses from initial hostility to a deeper bond laden with romantic tension. One key moment is when Mei’s backstory reveals her struggles with her feelings and the pressure of her responsibilities as the student council president. As the series progresses, her emotional walls begin to crumble, particularly as she navigates the complexities of her relationship with Yuzu, culminating in moments of vulnerability that drastically change how both characters interact.
Notable Relationships
Mei Aihara’s most significant relationship is with Yuzu Aihara, her step-sister. Their relationship, initially fraught with misunderstandings and tension, evolves into a romantic bond central to the series. Other key figures include Aihara’s fellow student council members and classmates, who provide various degrees of support or rivalry. Mei has complex interactions with her classmates, often highlighting her leadership role yet revealing her isolation.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the standout scenes occurs in Chapter 3, where Mei is confronted about her feelings by Yuzu. This moment serves as a catalyst for Mei’s character development, showcasing her initial resistance and later acceptance of her emotions. A memorable quote encapsulates her struggle: "I never wanted anyone to see me like this," revealing her vulnerability and fear of being perceived as weak. This scene resonates with fans, highlighting the emotional depth that characterizes Citrus.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
In terms of popularity, Mei Aihara ranks highly among fans, consistently appearing in character popularity polls for Citrus. She is voiced by Japanese actress Miku Itou in the original anime adaptation, while in English, she is voiced by Caitlin Glass. The character’s aesthetic, including her distinct black hair and uniform, has inspired various fan art and merchandise, contributing to the ongoing popularity of the series. Mei’s portrayal also raises questions about the complexities of love and loneliness, a recurring theme in yuri narratives.
Mei Aihara remains a defining character in Citrus, resonating with audiences due to her tumultuous journey towards emotional openness and her intricate relationship with Yuzu, making her a memorable figure in the anime and manga landscape.
