Akane is Saki's best friend and typically supporting her. He would like for their relationship to go further, but understands that is too much to ask of a girl who still can't wrap her head about platonic feelings. Though you would hardly guess he's an observant and considerate person. Zariah sure doesn't see that side of him for a long time. Akane is usually being rude and something of a troll. It's hard to distinguish his sincerity from his jokes, which makes his "helpful potential ally" role a bit of a gamble. Sometimes his advice can save Zariah's life, but other times it's just a waste.