Akira Nishio is a second-generation Fafner pilot and twin to Rina Nishio. After losing both parents in an early Festum attack, trauma initially left him unable to speak, so he communicated through gestures and written notes. He pilots the Mark Zehn, a Nothung-model Fafner specializing in long-range combat equipped with the sniper rifle known as Dragon Tooth. The Mark Zehn retains its original Nothung configuration due to Akira’s extended deployment away from Tatsumiya Island with expeditionary forces. He also co-pilots the massive Zero Fafner with his sister Rina; this unit later receives the Canon System upgrade to enhance its Synergetic Code capabilities. During Exodus, Akira shows increased confidence and resumes verbal communication. He assists Kazuki Makabe at the Rakuen restaurant, competitively naming his curry dish Akira Curry. In combat, he coordinates with other pilots but sustains severe injuries when a Festum penetrates the Mark Zehn’s arm, requiring surgical disconnection and pulse treatment. Akira distrusts the Human Army and openly opposes their presence on the island. Despite his sister’s objections, he volunteers for the expeditionary force, leading to prolonged separation and intense combat. During a critical battle, he pilots the Zero Fafner with Rina and absorbs her physical and mental burden during an assimilation attack, resulting in his own assimilation by the Festum. Following this, the repaired Mark Zehn is later reconfigured and reassigned. Rina inherits Akira’s amulet, a keepsake from his time with the Human Army. His name means shine or light, with Nishio combining west and tail or ridge.