History Characters / HighschoolOfTheDead

* TheSociopath: When it comes down to it, Shidou cares for no one but himself. Anyone who doesn't follow suit with his ideals, such as Yamada, is promptly gotten rid of. He curries favor with those with simple minds and base desires, like himself, which puts him at odds with strong-willed students, such as Takagi (who goes so far as to compare him to a certain religion/cult [[Administrivia/RuleOfCautiousEditingJudgment which shall not be named]] in the English dub) and Hirano, who sees through his facade from the start.

* HateSink: He's not really a direct threat to the heroes at all, and he has nothing to do with the series' central conflict, but he provides the audience with a truly contemptible villain to hate that the completely mindless "THEM" can't.

* KarmaHoudini: He never faced charges for what he did to Rei and her father, with his façade as [[BitchInSheepsClothing a kind and caring instructor]] being an insult to injury.

** And, in the ''"Drifters of the Dead"'' OVA, he hallucinatied about Saeko throwing herself at him, then having sex with her.

* CryCute: Seen during the first chapter, while she and Takashi have barracaded themselves on the school roof. She tries to call her father's emergency number, but loses the signal once he was out of range. The worst part being, that he hadn't recognized her voice.

* NoGoodDeedGoesUnpunished. Her sparing Shidou comes back to bite the team big time, twice. First when the [=EMP=] goes off, he loses control of the bus, breaking a barracade and letting "them" storm Saya's family estate, and then Shidou goes to Rei's neighborhood, and with his cult manages to convince the neighbors to lock Rei's mother out while she was foraging for supplies.

** She also gives him an earful, while she was being treated at the Takagi Estate, for using her breasts to repeatedly absorb the recoil from firing a sniper rifle, and worsend her back injury.

* KarmaHoudini: He never faced charges for what he did to Rei and her father, with his facade as [[BitchInSheepsClothing a kind and caring instructor]] being an insult to injury.

* FairCop: Member of the police special forces and is as ggod-looking as the rest of the cast.

* WhatAnIdiot: How he gets infected, he puts a ZOMBIE in a headlock, slightly subverted by the fact that, instead of biting down on his forearm, it rotates it's head 180 to bite his bicep.

* DeathByPragmatism: She tried to save herself by throwing Toshimi under the bus. Les than a minute later, she was either dead (anime) or turned (manga).

* NotSoDifferent: To Saeko, when Takashi reflected on the time he first realized that he was beginning to like the "new world" they suddenly found themselves in. Which is why he was able to empathize with her in chapter 17.

* FamousLastWords: "Dammit, bitch, I said ''LET GO!''"

* FamousLastWords: "Misuzu! Help me! Misuzu!"

* WrongGenreSavvy: Even she thought that if she and Toshimi stuck together, they'd make it through alive. Rather quickly, her cowardice gets the better of her as Toshimi gets snatched by the zombies, and [[RealityEnsues you probably know what happens to them next]].

* WrongGenreSavvy: She and Misuzu practically ''skip'' hand-in-hand away from the zombies chasing them, harping on about how [[ThePowerOfLove the power of their]] TwoGirlRomanticFriendship will carry them through the dark times ahead. Then poor Toshimi gets grabbed, and RealityEnsues...

* InTheBlood: As much as Shidou despises his father, in the end, he's just like him. Possibly even worse.

* OdangoHair: Seen only in the ''"Drifters of the Dead"'' OVA, though given [[RapunzelHair the sheer length]] [[MegaTwinTails and volume of her pigtails]], it doubles as an example of CompressedHair.

* FairCop: See TheCutie entry.

* GoOutWithASmile: [[spoiler:The last we see of her is a smile and salute, through [[MercyKill Kohta's sniper scope]]]].

* AXCrazy: Saeko isn't "all there" as she just enjoys the feeling of beating the ever-living sh*t out of someone. Maybe [[InterplayOfSexAndViolence too much]].

%%* {{Adorkable}}

->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/NobuhikoOkamoto (JP), David Wald (EN)

** IdiotHero: Good with a baseball bat. Not so good with ''actually thinking through the consequences of his actions''.

* PragmaticHero: with shades of NominalHero. He's aloof and willing to do whatever it takes to ensure his groups' survival, even if it means cutting loses, or abandoning others to die - as he did [[spoiler: with Asami]].
** Though the fact that he made an exception to save Alice and Zeke shows that even ruthlessness [[EveryoneHasStandards has its limits.]]

* [[SwipeYourBladeOff Swipe Your Baseball Bat Off]]

** Directed toward Takashi, who let his lingering resentment get the better of him by assuming she was comparing him to Hisashi]], simply because she said he sucked for not having any spare change on him.

* AttemptedRape: As part of her backstory (see the following entry).

** {{Irony}}: Sometime before the outbreak occurred, Takashi's friend, Morita, said he wished he could've seen Saeko in an apron and a thong]], though Takashi said it'd never happen. He was wrong, but sadly, Morita wasn't around to see it.

-->'''[=WatchMojo=]:''' "An example of this is Saya Takagi from ''Highschool of the Dead'', who, [[TheSmartGuy due to her outstanding intellect]], will often analyze the group's condition and sum it up for the audience."

-->'''Saya: (at Hirano)''' '''[[PervertRevengeMode "YOU LECHER!!"]]'''

* HiddenDepths: That geeky shell hides a deadly efficient gun-enthusiest with an itchy trigger finger.

* SociopathicHero: But more emphasis on "hero". Although Kohta has, at times, shown a ginormous SlasherSmile while threatening or injuring people...
** It's implied early on that he was dangerously close to falling off the deep end and going on a shooting spree. The zombies just beat him to it.

* BewareTheSillyOnes: When some of the students on the bus complain about Shizuka's driving and Takashi's group plan to escape by heading into the city, she [[BrakeAngrily hits the brake]] and practically tells them all to shut the fuck up. Cue students shutting the fuck up.

-->'''Shizuka: (one hand covering Takashi's crotch)''' "Whoa! It's been so long [[DoubleEntendre since I felt something like this!"]]
-->'''Takashi: (smiling dreamily)''' "Um... you're talking about ''the motorcycle''... aren't you?"
-->'''Shizuka: (feigning innocence)''' "Whaaat? What did you say? I can't hee~aar yooo~uuu!"
-->'''Takashi: (a bit louder)''' "Uh... I was just saying-"
-->'''Shizuka: (still playing innocent)''' "I can't hear yoooo~ouuu!"

-->'''Shizuka: (from off-panel)''' "No! Not '''THERE!''' ♥ No more! ♥"

* ChildrenAreInnocent: [[EnforcedTrope Enforced]] in universe. When she asks what weapon she gets to use, Kohta tells her that he, Takashi, and [[TeamPet Zeke/Zero]] [[SugarWiki/FunnyMoments are her weapons]].
** At the same time though, they do acknowledge that eventually she's going to need to be given a weapon. They're just trying to avoid [[TroublingUnchildlikeBehavior making her do so]] for as long as they can manage.

* ThirdPersonPerson: Japanese police officers are specifically trained to never use first-person pronouns when speaking to other people and instead refer to themselves as "this officer".
** Asami, [[NewMeat being the nervous rookie she is]], slips between this and the regular ThirdPersonPerson, mainly because she is so inexperienced. She only addresses herself as "I" [[spoiler:right before she dies]].

* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: In Episode 10, he correctly identifies Hirano as a badass--pretty damn impressive, considering he's on the floor weeping like a baby at the time--and stops his men from trying to take his guns.
** And in the next episode. [[spoiler:"What's that, little girl, you say this man, the son of my political ally, flunked you because your father was investigating his for corruption? Well, okay then, you have my permission to kill him." So basically, to Soichirou, if you avenge your ne'er-do-well father on his well-meaning antagonist's daughter, it's a MoralEventHorizon and grounds for a summary execution by your victim.]]

* PantyShot: Along with [a gratuitous ass shot and focus on her thighs.

* YankTheDogsChain: She was offered a chance at happiness with Hirano and his friends, but circumstance and her duties as a police officer] [[KillTheCutie wouldn't allow it.]]

* LustObject: The anime plays up Takashi's attraction to Saeko far more than the manga does. Such as when he first sees she's wearing nothing but an apron and a thong in episode 6, and slips up twice while staring at her breasts. But the ''"Drifters of the Dead"'' OVA cranks the [[UnresolvedSexualTension UST]] UpToEleven, by having Taka`here's a ZombieApocalypse outside.
* FriendsWithBenefits: Implied that she doesn't mind getting naked with Rika while under the influence of drugs in the OVA, imagining Takagi as her friend. While she remains her ditzy self under influence, its still hinted that she wouldn't have minded without the drugs.
* GetAHoldOfYourselfMan: Looks all set to deliver a bike-powered slap to [[spoiler:Kohta during his B.S.O.D., but instead she gives him a pep talk]]. It works out the same way.
* HiddenDepths: She was the one to [[spoiler:snap Kohta out of his short PTSD-esque period]] when Takashi, Alice/Arisu, ''and'' Saya failed.
* TheNotLoveInterest: Though she can be a bit of a tease (when drunk), she has no romantic interest in either Takashi, or Hirano. And they never think of her as anything other than the group's designated driver.
* TeamMom: She has a very calm personality, and takes care of the group's injuries.
* TheTease: In moments like the time she she went riding with Takashi, or the time she got drunk and came onto both him and Hirano.

* TookALevelInBadass: Gained gained several levels when she [[spoiler:[[GetAHoldOfYourselfMan talked Kohta out of committing suicide by zombie]]]]. For bonus points she [[ActionDressRip tore her own skirt]] beforehand.

* ZettaiRyouiki: She starts the series as a '''Class A''', since she wears dark leggings that stop just short of mid-thigh.

* NotSoDifferent: To Saeko, when Takashi reflected on the time he first realized that [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-4/20/ he was beginning to like the "new world"]] they suddenly found themselves in. Which is why [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-17/20/ he was able to empathize with her]] in chapter 17.

* CannotSpitItOut: {{Averted|Trope}}. She was initially burdened with guilt, for rekindling her feelings for Takashi so soon after Hisashi's death. But she finally accepted it and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11322-38/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-12.html told Takashi]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11322-40/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-12.html how she felt]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11322-41/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-12.html in no uncertain terms.]]

** In the aftermath of Hisahi's death, she rekindles her relationship with Takashi and becomes jealous anytime he seems to be getting close to Saeko, who lampshades it by explaining to Takashi that girls can be weak at times and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11316-26/highschool-of-the-dead/chapter-6.html said he should talk with her.]]
** Rei confirms it in chapter 12, when she tells Takashi she couldn't go on [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-12/43/ if he ever fell in love with another girl]] - only to run into Saeko on her way out and [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-12/44/ becomes suspicious]] [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-12/45/ of what she was doing outside his room.]]
* CryCute: Seen during the first chapter, while she and Takashi have barracaded themselves on the school roof. She tries to call her father's emergency number, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-2/20/ but loses the signal]] once he was out of range. The worst part being, that he hadn't recognized her voice.

* HairAntennae: She has a pair of hair strands that always curve upward near the front of her head. Best seen [[http://www.animevice.com/rei-miyamoto/18-19670/all-images/84-63420/03_03_2011_02_49_58pm/83-370442/ here]] and [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/09/ here.]]

** This is also reflected in their ongoing LoveTriangle with Takashi, with Rei being the 'wholesome' girl with a crush, while Saeko [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11331-16/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-21.html prefers to be the seductress]] and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11326-25/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-16.html lets her sex appeal do the talking.]] Which is further reflected by the difference in how they dress, which Rei lampshades in chapter 27:
-->'''Rei: (incredulous)''' "What the heck is THAT!? Aren't you embarrassed showing off like that!? [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-57442-30/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-27.html I can't believe you're walking around like that!!"]]

** She [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11324-26/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-14.html couldn't bring herself to kill Shidou]], a man she loathes, even though she'd been given sanction to do it. Having seen his fear and cowardice, she decided [[NotWorthKilling he wasn't worth it.]]
** Also seen during the escape from the mall, when she openly stated that she [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-10/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html hoped she'd never get used to killing]], even if it's "them".

* ShesGotLegs: Does she '''[[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11311-44/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-1.html EVER.]]''' The manga [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-10/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html makes sure you know it]], because [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-57442-33/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-27.html you'll be seeing]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-5/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html a lot of them.]]

** Directed toward Takashi, who let his lingering resentment get the better of him by [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-4/17/ assuming she]] [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-4/18/ was comparing him to Hisashi]], simply because she said he sucked for not having any spare change on him.
** She also gives him an earful, while she was being treated at the Takagi Estate, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-9/18-19/ for using her breasts to repeatedly absorb the recoil]] from firing a sniper rifle, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-10/04/ which hurt like hell]] and worsend her back injury.

* BettyAndVeronica: As the "Veronica" of the duo, Saeko prefers to [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11326-25/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-17.html let her sex appeal do the talking]] and has no reservations about [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11331-16/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-21.html flaunting it in front of Rei.]] She's even modified her school uniform to include a lacey pair of black thigh-high stockings and stiletto-heeled boots, along with a matching mini-skirt that has a split seam so high that it flashes her panties (also black) when she walks.

* BloodKnight: It used to burden her with self-loathing, but Takashi snapped her out of it[[note]]since her fighting ability makes her invaluable to their group's survival[[/note]]. From then on, she revels in almost orgasmic pleasure from cutting down zombies, as it allows her to indulge in her violent impulses without restraint. Which makes her [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-10/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html the polar opposite]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-11/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html of Rei.]]

* DarkActionGirl: Being both a LadyOfWar and the kendo captain, she manages to run the gamut rather neatly by herself. Saeko's well aware of her violent impulses and gets to indulge in it whenever she's cutting down waves of zombies. Which is best seen [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-11/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html here]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/30/38 and here.]]

** {{Irony}}: Sometime before the outbreak occurred, Takashi's friend, Morita, said he [[http://v2012.mangapark.com/manga/Highschool-of-the-Dead/cextra+3/3 wished he could've seen Saeko in an apron and a thong]], though Takashi said it'd never happen. He was wrong, but sadly, Morita wasn't around to see it.

* LuminescentBlush: Seen in chapter 16 of the manga, when she notices Takashi [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11326-19/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-16.html staring at her breasts]] through her SexySoakedShirt.

* TheTease: In moments like the time she [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-5/29/ she went riding with Takashi]], or the time she got drunk and [[http://citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-6/23/ came onto both him and Hirano.]]

* ArmorPiercingSlap: When Hirano [[spoiler: [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/08/ fires a shot directly between Shizuka's chest and Alice's head]]]], while suffering from PTSD, Saya belts him. [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/09 Twice.]]

* BerserkButton: She's {{tsundere}} as it is, but she really hates when Alice refers to her as [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-18/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html "Saya-chan"]], rather than than the more respectful term of address, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-33/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html "Saya Onee-sama".]]

* GiveGeeksAChance: It hasn't happened yet, but she's getting there. When [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-2/53/ Hirano asked her out]], [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-2/54/ it made her blush.]]

* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Despite her own feelings for Hirano, she was willing to step aside so he could be with Asami and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11333-17/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-23.html even suggested taking her with them.]] Then told Takashi he should worry about ''[[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11333-18/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-23.html his own]]'' relationship problems, when she saw the look in his eye.

* LikeAnOldMarriedCouple: By now, she and Kohta practically ''are'' a married couple with Alice as their adopted daughter. Chapter 29 hangs a massive lampshade on it [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/32 here]].

** During the bonus story at the end of chapter 23, Morita also wanted to tap it. He spends an entire page [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11333-32/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-23.html going on about how hot she is]] and said she had breasts like a bikini model's.
* MamaBear: Don't mess with Alice [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/22 while she's around]], 'cuz she's just as [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/27 violently protective of her]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/28 as Hirano is]].

** She also gave a detailed summation of [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11325-12/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-15.html how HANE's and EMP's work]], after all the electronics at the Takagi Estate went dead, in chapter 15.
** And during chapter 28, she tells them about [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-8/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html the JSDF's]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-9/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html evacuation plan]], after finding a report about it (albeit, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html with help from Alice]]) on one of the computers at the police HQ where Rei's father was stationed.

* NerdsAreSexy: Hirano certainly thinks so, as he becomes attracted to her [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-2/33/ after finding out she wears glasses.]] She even [[CovertPervert caught him perving on her]], in chapter 5, and booted him for it. And if you look closely at the panel where she's giving her EMP explanation, you can see he's both awestruck ''[[PervertedDrooling and drooling]]'' over just how smart she is.

* {{Shorttank}}: She's had the attitude right from the start, being she's {{tsundere}} and a TomboyWithAGirlyStreak. But it doesn't become official until chapter 18, where she dons her [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-32/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html jean shorts and suspenders + T-shirt ensemble.]]

* TomboyWithAGirlyStreak: Despite her family's wealth and her upbringing, Saya isn't exactly what you'd call ladylike. She tends to use strong language and prefers to be in thick of things, rather being left on the sidelines as [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-19/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html it makes her feel useless.]] Which she later explained to Hirano, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-20/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html as her reason for wanting to fight.]] She also prefers to dress casually, but is just as comfortable in feminine wear, [[PinkIsFeminine likes pink]], and beginning in chapter 18, wears a ribbon around her left ankle as a fashion accessory.

* {{Tsundere}}: Type A. She mostly gives Hirano a hard time, but shows signs of being attracted to him. The most telling instance, by far, was when [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11331-19/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-21.html she pretended not to care]] that Asami and Hirano were getting closer, but [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11331-24/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-21.html was visibly concerned]] that he might've chosen to stay with her.

* WhatTheHellHero: Directed at her father, when she demands to know what he meant by [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-15/21/ "entrusting her" to Hirano.]]

** He came to Alice's rescue, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-7/14/ to save her from a horde]] that'd been drawn to the sound of her crying over her dead father. When Takashi asked what he was doing[[note]]since they had agreed not to use their gus, so they wouldn't attract "them" to their hiding place[[/note]], Hirano's response was: '''[[PunctuatedForEmphasis "IT's. A.]]''' '''[[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11317-14/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-7.html LITTLE. GIRL!!"]]'''
** The next time was to stop Shimada from raping Shizuka, after he refused to back down to Asami. So Hirano [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/04/ ducked into a nearby hardware store]], [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/05/ quickly fashioned a garrote]], then came back and [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/06/ dispensed justice.]]

** Seen in chapter 5 when Saya caught him [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-5/28/ checking her out]] on the sly and [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-5/29/ boots him for it.]]

** And in the following chapter, he asked Takashi if he wanted to see whether there was anything to [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11316-5/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-6.html "protect" the girls from]] while they were bathing, but Takashi wisely chose to live.

* DeclarationOfProtection: Hirano protected Saya during the outbreak at the school and told her he'd keep her safe, as they were boarding the bus, during their escape. But, near the end of chapter 15, her father made it official [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11325-19/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-15.html by entrusting Saya's safety to him]], just before they were forced to abandon the Takagi Estate. Despite her initial objection, she gradually accepts him as her personal bodyguard, of sorts.

** Best seen in chapter 26, when he fires a shot [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/08/ directly between Takashi and the others]] and scores a headshot on an approaching zombie. Which was done in a split-second when noticed it [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/07/ from the corner of his eye.]] While the shot saved Alice's life, it could just as easily taken it, [[WhatTheHellHero which is why Saya belts him for it. Twice.]]

* LivingEmotionalCrutch: By chapter 26, Takashi believed Saya had become so attached to Hirano, that he was concerned when he began to suffer PTSD, [[spoiler: due to having to MercyKill Asami]]. And tells Shizuka that if he were to die, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/19/ Saya would likely lose the will to live.]]
* LongRangeFighter: A gun otaku, turned gun specialist, after spending a month training on [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11316-10/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-6.html an American Blackwater firing range.]] Hirano's expertise makes him an invaluable asset to their group, since he often lays down cover fire and even [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11319-15/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-9.html begins teaching the others how to use firearms.]]

** Subverted near the end of chapter 25, when Takashi [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-45/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html put his foot down]] for the sake of the group, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-46/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html by preventing Hirano from helping Asami.]]

** While they were at the mall, Shizuka wandered off with Shimada to find a bed to rest in. Except he had [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-35/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html other]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-36/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html ideas]], and would've succeeded were it not [[BigDamnHeroes for Asami and Hirano.]]

** Such as the time [[https://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/5/28 she grabbed Takashi's crotch]], when they went riding in chapter 5. Made moreso by the dialog in the anime version:

** She was also quick to assume he wanted to have sex with her when he said [[https://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/26/16 he "needed her"]][[note]]Takashi only wanted her opinion of Hirano's emotional state at that time[[/note]]. While she replied it wasn't the time, or place for it, her blush and the way she was smiling [[https://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/26/17 implied she might've consented]] otherwise.
** Also, when they raid the convenience store, Shizuka picks up a box of condoms and [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/3 is seen smiling to herself.]] When Hirano asks to borrow one, [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/4 she blushed and wanted to know why?]] But seemed just as interested that it was to protect the barrel of his rifle [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/5 from being clogged by grime and mud.]]
** And when Hirano tells Alice she's holding a net launcher, Shizuka smiles and has an ImagineSpot of [[spoiler: [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/8 lying with her legs spread, while he used it to squirt semen all over her]]]][[note]]since "net" is a slang term for "semen"[[/note]]. Hirano [[BreakingTheFourthWall literally sees what she's thinking]] and clears up the misunderstanding.
** Then she takes it and stuffs it in her cleavage, because she thought it was [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/9 the best place to put it.]] Saya and the others tell her she didn't have to do that.

* TheMedic: It isn't often that she gets to apply her expertise, since the others are good at avoiding serious injury. Though she was able to treat Rei while they're at the Takagi Estate, after she hurt her back in a fall. And she was able to diagnose the old woman at the mall as having [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-20/04/ Rheumatoid Arthritis]], [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-20/06/ from what her husband told her.]]

** First seen while Rei was groping her and (apparently) touching her inappropriately, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11316-3/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-6.html not that Shizuka seemed to mind.]]

** Also when Takashi was carrying her while she was drunk and unintentionally grabbed her butt, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-6/23/ causing her to whimper]] and flirt with him.
** Seen again when she thought he wanted to have sex with her, causing her to blush tell him it wasn't the time or place for it. She's seen [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/17/ smiling while surrounded by hearts]], implying she might've gladly consented if they hadn't been in public, or surrounded by "them".
** Also when Hirano asked to borrow [[spoiler: a condom]] from her, [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/4 her tongue takes the shape of a heart]] when she asks why.

* TheTease: In moments like the time she [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-5/29/ she went riding with Takashi]], or the time she got drunk and [[http://citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-6/23/ came onto both him and Hirano.]]

** While Saya's on the computer at the police station, Alice sees a button and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-6/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html presses it on impulse]], causing Saya to snap at her... until she sees it's brought up [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-7/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html the information she was looking for.]]

* TheCutie: Even in the midst of a gun battle, while they were surrounded by "them". Despite being terrified (evident from [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-9/21/ her trembling hands]]), she still wanted to help.

* ShipperOnDeck: She's closest to Hirano and Saya, as though they're her foster parents within the group. So [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-22/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html when it seemed they were getting closer]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-23/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html she waves a pair of flags.]]

* SomethingElseAlsoRises: In [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/28/ this scene]], where he gets wedge between Rei and Shizuka's breasts; causing his tail to [[DoesThisRemindYouOfAnything jut straight into the air, near Rei's mouth.]] Making it the only time anyone was ever jealous of a dog.

* LuminescentBlush: Seen when she first fell in love Hirano and while she was dropping hints that she was available ''[[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/25/ and interested]]'', while they were alone on the roof.

* MercyKill: Does one for Tamaru, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-20/31/ after he was caught by "them"]]. [[spoiler: Five chapters later, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-25/61/ she asked Hirano to do the same for her]], before "they" got to her]].

* IncestSubtext: (anime onlly): In the OVA, Saya accidentally inhales hallucinogenic smoke that causes her to mistake Shizuka for her mom. During which, Saya strips her and imagines cuddling naked with her mom in a hot spring. The drugs wear of by morning, revealing she's naked on top of Shizuka, who's also naked. Instead of being shocked by the implication, Saya seems more disappointed that her hallucination wasn't real.

Takashi's old LoveInterest and classmate, as well as a member of the lance fighting club. Frustrated with his apparent disinterest, Rei started dating his best friend Hisashi, though she still harbored feelings for him. When Hisashi is bitten, Rei faces the question of whether it is right to act on her maintained feelings for Takashi so soon after he was forced to kill his best friend. Headstrong and resilient, Rei is a strong combatant and valuable asset to the group.

* CooldownKiss: In the anime, Takashi gave one to Saeko off-screen to calm her down after she confesses to her [[SociopathicHero sadistic tendencies]]. However, this scene does not happen in the manga.

* DrivesLikeCrazy: Her one redeeming ability for much of the series. Whenever she's behind the wheel, she tends to rack up [[TheJaywalkingDead body counts]] that Saeko and Hirano could only dream of.
* DumbBlonde: She has long blonde hair and is the most ditzy character in the series.
* EroticEating: She can be seen choking on a banana in one scene, after Saya announces that she may not be able to continue on with the group.

* GagBoobs: Shizuka's breasts are so ginormous that she [[http://sadeeyore.com/anime-screencaps/picture.php?/180662-thumb_0278/category/246-episode_1_spring_of_the_dead can use them as pillows]] and, in chapter 26, Zeke/Zero got launched from her cleavage after being stuck between them. They even make dull spring-like sound effects whenever she moves.

* TheLoad: {{Subverted}}, see the [[TheTeamBenefactor Team Benefactor]] entry.
* LustObject: Her age (27) hasn't stopped ''anyone'' from finding her sexually appealing. Takashi's friend, Imamura, said she was hot specifically ''because'' [[LikesOlderWomen she's an older woman.]] Takashi and Hirano have also been aroused by her, while Shimada said she had a nice body, right before trying to rape her; and even ''[[{{Asexual}} Shido]]'' of people is shown to be physically attracted to her.
* MarshmallowHell: Whenever she's scared/startled there is a very good chance someone's going to end up with her breasts in their face. Or pressed up against their back.
* MeaningfulName: "Shizuka" means "quiet and peaceful".
* TheMedic: It isn't often that she gets to apply her expertise, since the others are good at avoiding serious injury. Though she was able to treat Rei while they're at the Takagi Estate, after she hurt her back in a fall. And she was able to diagnose the old woman at the mall as having [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-20/04/ Rheumatoid Arthritis]], [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-20/06/ from what her husband told her.]]
* MsFanservice: Which is to say, she's the one female character who this trope applies to the most [[WorldOfBuxom in a series like this]]. Her breast are enough to incite Rei's envy, and [[StatuesqueStunner the rest of her figure's]] nothing to sneeze at either. She provides most of the fanservice in the series and there's even a time where she's out naked when everyone else had dressed up.
* NeutralFemale: Aside from her CarFu moments, Shizuka is completely incapable of direct combat.

* RapunzelHair: Her hair extends down past her waist.
* SayItWithHearts: Whenever she's being flirtatious, or thinking something perverted:
** First seen while Rei was groping her and (apparently) touching her inappropriately, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11316-3/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-6.html not that Shizuka seemed to mind.]]
-->'''Shizuka: (from off-panel)''' "No! Not '''THERE!''' ♥ No more! ♥"
** Also when Takashi was carrying her while she was drunk and unintentionally grabbed her butt, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-6/23/ causing her to whimper]] and flirt with him.
** Seen again when she thought he wanted to have sex with her, causing her to blush tell him it wasn't the time or place for it. She's seen [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/17/ smiling while surrounded by hearts]], implying she might've gladly consented if they hadn't been in public, or surrounded by "them".
** Also when Hirano asked to borrow [[spoiler: a condom]] from her, [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/4 her tongue takes the shape of a heart]] when she asks why.
* SchoolNurse: Her position at Fujimi High before all hell broke loose.
* StatuesqueStunner: Shizuka is ''very'' tall at 176cm or 5'9½".
* TheTeamBenefactor: While it may not seem like it at first, Takashi and the others' survival is largely due to Shizuka's contributions.
** She was the one who made their escape from the school possible, by suggesting they head to the Teachers' Lounge to get a set of keys to one of the buses. And, she was the only one who knew how to drive it, along with all the other times her driving has gotten them out of hairy situations.
** Shizuka also provided them with [[TraumaInn a place where they could eat and rest]] at the end of their first day, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iW6ZzFfugxM by letting them use her friend's apartment.]] A decision that enabled Hirano and the others to also arm themselves, since it gave them access to Rika's weapon's cache and ammo supplies. Plus, access to a new vehicle and a change of clothes.
** And she was able to treat Rei's back injury, effectively keeping their fighting force at four strong. Whereas without her medical expertise, one of their best combatants might not have recovered.

* TokenAdult: She's 27 and is the only one of the main characters that's out of highschool. Despite this, Takashi leads the group, while Saya is the brains. Shizuka mainly serves as their driver and, occasionally, as medic.

* TooDumbToLive: So... with a horde of "them" right outside her office windows, with the glass cracking beneath the strain, and her assistant desperately urging her to hurry up and leave since "they'd" be breaking through at any second, she... decides to [[TakeYourTime take her time.]] Then when "they" broke through and swarmed the poor guy, rather than try to help him, or at least run for it, she spaces out while watching him being EatenAlive, 'til it finally dawned on her to ask what his name was. Had Saeko not shown up at that moment, Shizuka would've been dead.

* IncestSubtext: While under the influence of drugs under in the OVA, she hallucinates Shizuka as her mother whose bikini she quickly strips and imagines the two cuddling naked in a hot spring. Her muttering after realizing that she woke up naked next to Shizuka implies that she may really have certain feelings for her mother.

[[folder:Alice/Arisu Maresato]]
[[quoteright:205:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alice_Maresato_5333.jpg]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/AyanaTaketatsu (JP), Creator/BrittneyKarbowski (EN)

Seven-year-old Alice/Arisu was rescued from "them" by Takashi after a group of hideaways killed her father and closed the door on her. Being an innocent ray of sunshine amidst the bleakness of their situation, the group quickly took a liking to her and has since adopted her as a little sister figure.
----
* BeautyMark: She has a small mole under her left eye.
* BringMyBrownPants: She pees on Takashi's back after he rescues her from a zombie horde.
* CheerfulChild: To say she lost both her parents and found herself with a group of strangers, only moments later, she's taken it remarkably well. Her cheeriness has even rubbed off Takashi and the others, somewhat.
* ChildrenAreInnocent: [[EnforcedTrope Enforced]] in universe. When she asks what weapon she gets to use, Kohta tells her that he, Takashi, and [[TeamPet Zeke/Zero]] [[SugarWiki/FunnyMoments are her weapons]].
** At the same time though, they do acknowledge that eventually she's going to need to be given a weapon. They're just trying to avoid [[TroublingUnchildlikeBehavior making her do so]] for as long as they can manage.
* CryCute: Seen in chapter 29, when Saya whaps her on the noggin for making her worry. They make-up afterwards.
* CuriousAsAMonkey:
** While Saya's on the computer at the police station, Alice sees a button and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-6/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html presses it on impulse]], causing Saya to snap at her... until she sees it's brought up [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-7/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html the information she was looking for.]]
** Also seen in chapter 29 when she asks Hirano [[spoiler: [[TheTalk what condoms are for]]]] and why he's never used one... [[Funny/HighschoolOfTheDead in front of Saya!]]
* TheCutie: Even in the midst of a gun battle, while they were surrounded by "them". Despite being terrified (evident from [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-9/21/ her trembling hands]]), she still wanted to help.
* DamselInDistress: Hirano and Takashi came to her rescue in chapter 7, to save her from a horde of "them". She nearly falls victim again, after falling off her bike in chapter 29, causing Saya to go into MamaBear mode.
* FingerlessGloves: Wears these whilst riding her bike... up a multiplatform display case.
* HappilyAdopted: She is "adopted" by the group after her father dies, with Kohta and Saya acting as her foster parents.
* HarmfulToMinors: She sees her father get fatally {{impaled|WithExtremePrejudice}}.
* TheHeart: She's everyone's little sister because she's " an innocent ray of sunshine amidst the bleakness of their situation".
* HeartwarmingOrphan: For all of them, including Saya, who affectionately refers to Alice [[AffectionateNickname as "Munchkin".]]
* PleaseDontLeaveMe: Seen in episode 8, when it appeared that Hirano and the others were about to die, he tried to convince Alice to escape by saying [[GoOnWithoutMe they'd be right behind her.]] Except she saw through it and refused to go, because [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdbyCpGg6aI the thought of being alone again]] terrifies her more than "they" do.
* RescueIntroduction: Introduced when the group goes to save her from "them" after her father's death.
* ShipperOnDeck: She's closest to Hirano and Saya, as though they're her foster parents within the group. So [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-22/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html when it seemed they were getting closer]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-23/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html she waves a pair of flags.]]
* SpellMyNameWithAnS: Alice or Arisu?
* TagalongKid: She's been a part of their group ever since Hirano and Takashi saved her from "them".
* TokenMiniMoe: The only prepubescent character in the cast where the majority of characters are either adults or teenagers.

[[folder:Zeke/Zero]]
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/zeke_9.jpg]]

Alice/Arisu's pet dog. He and Alice/Arisu were almost killed but for Hirano and Takashi's intervention. He accompanies the gang as Alice/Arisu companion and can differentiate who are the living and who are the undead.
----
* BewareTheNiceOnes: In the OVA BeachEpisode, Zeke/Zero gathered some leaves for the people to start a camp fire, which turned out to be hydrangea leaves. This resulted in the hilarious and ''very'' absurd MushroomSamba of the rest of the episode. After the credits, Zeke/Zero is shown gathering the leaves again, with an evil smirk on his face.
* CanineCompanion: To Alice. Wherever ''she'' goes, ''he'' goes.
* DubNameChange / GeniusBonus: Zeke is known as Zero [[{{Woolseyism}} in the official English dub]]. The [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitsubishi_A6M_Zero Mitsubishi A6M Reisen]] fighter plane had the official reporting name of "Zeke" among the Allies, but it is far, ''far'' better known as the Zero.
* EvilDetectingDog: Zeke will bark whenever there's any of "them" lurking nearby, which tells them to prepare themselves.
* SomethingElseAlsoRises: In [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/28/ this scene]], where he gets wedge between Rei and Shizuka's breasts; causing his tail to [[DoesThisRemindYouOfAnything jut straight into the air, near Rei's mouth.]] Making it the only time anyone was ever jealous of a dog.
* SpellMyNameWithAnS: Zeke or Zero?
%%* TeamPet

[[folder:Koichi Shidou]]

[[quoteright:225:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/94779_8520.jpg]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/KisshoTaniyama (JP), Creator/IllichGuardiola (EN)

Class 3-A's teacher. Rei had beef on him since he flunked her out [[spoiler:because of their fathers' radically differing political beliefs]]. He doesn't care much for the lives of others, and even in the midst of the zombie apocalypse, is apparently planning to build a cult centered on himself.

* LustObject: The anime plays up Takashi's attraction to Saeko far more than the manga does. Such as when he first sees she's wearing nothing but an apron and a thong in episode 6, and slips up twice while staring at her breasts. But the ''"Drifters of the Dead"'' OVA cranks the [[UnresolvedSexualTension UST]] UpToEleven, by having Takashi hallucinate about her throwing herself at him, then spending the night having sex with her[[note]]covered by the SexyDiscretionShot entry on the main page[[/note]].
-->'''[[spoiler: Dream]] Saeko: (panting, blushing)''' "Komuro, I... [[NotWhatItLooksLike I don't want you to think]] [[AllWomenAreLustful that I'm a loose woman]], but I've always wanted to be with you and I can no longer resist the urges of my body."
* MsFanservice: After Shizuka, she is the second main source of fanservice.
* NecessarilyEvil: Takashi regards her as such in both the manga and the anime, where he admits to needing Saeko to embrace her darkness [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eg-VEeYhvL4 in order to better his own chances at survival.]]
* OrgasmicCombat: Saeko literally gets off on inflicting pain and [[TooKinkyToTorture having it inflicted on her]]:
** In the ninth episode, she gets turned on by Takashi almost crushing her breast, during [[GetAholdOfYourselfMan his rousing speech.]] Her back not only arches in ecstasy, she moans deeply and blushes (linked in the ImmodestOrgasm entry).
** While still present in the manga, it's more subdued. Her back doesn't arch and she doesn't moan. Instead, she simply blushes and tells Takashi "she consents" to his terms. Though she still [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-17/26-27/ becomes]] [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-17/28 sexually aroused]] from cutting a swath through the attacking horde.
* RapunzelHair: Her hair falls past her waist.
* RedOniBlueOni: Blue to Takashi's red, though with heavy shades of read when she's in combat.
* {{Sadist}}: She admits this to Takashi while they're alone at the Shinto shrine in chapter 17, by recounting the time she'd been accosted by a would-be rapist. She dislocated his shoulder and broke his femur, adding [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11327-18/highschool-of-the-dead/chapter-17.html she had enjoyed his suffering]] and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11327-19/highschool-of-the-dead/chapter-17.html how it was empowering to know she had the upperhand.]] Though it left her burdened by self-loathing and nearly caused her to allow herself to be killed by "them" the next morning. But Takashi [[GetAHoldOfYourselfMan snapped her out of it]], by telling her to accept herself for who she was and live.
* SexIsViolence: Mowing "them" down with her katana gets her a little [[OrgasmicCombat ''too'' excited.]]
* SheFu: She uses quite a few mid-air flips when wielding her katana in battle.
* ShesGotLegs: The manga [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-5/23/ showcases hers]] just as often as Rei's, along with copious amounts of [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-57442-30/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-27.html 'baby got back'.]]
* SilkHidingSteel: Her demure elegance and cool competence masks a bloodthirsty streak she fears could overcome her. She practices kendo to both exercise it and discipline it. And boy, does she unleash it once the zombies start to take over.
* SlasherSmile: When she awakens her CuteAndPsycho side.
* SociopathicHero: Only to a certain degree. But keep in mind that under Saeko's calm HeirToTheDojo exterior is a BloodKnight who only recently publicly acknowledged her enjoyment of becoming stronger and deadlier. She was arrested as a young girl for being "overly enthusiastic" in her self-defense against a would-be molester. Though she had her regrets at one point.
* StatuesqueStunner: She is exceptionally tall by the standards of her age, gender and nationality. Officially her height is 174cm or 5'8½".
* StockingFiller: Saeko wears [[http://www.animevice.com/saeko-busujima/18-18624/all-images/84-53862/181668/83-413654/ a lacey pair of black thigh-highs]], along with stiletto-heeled boots.
* ThatDidntHappen: See the related entry in Rei's section.
* TokenEvilTeammate: She's easily the most amoral and violent character of the main cast.
* TomboyAndGirlyGirl: Tomboy to Shizuka's girly girl.
* UnresolvedSexualTension: See the related entry in Takashi's section.
* UnscrupulousHero: She shows herself as this quite a bit in combat given her BloodKnight tendencies, particularly after a dark incident from her past is revealed.
* WardrobeWound: She has a tendency to hand them out via skirt-rip. Shizuka yells at her early on when she rips her Prada skirt (Christian Dior in the English dub) after she trips while fleeing "them".
-->'''Saeko:''' Your clothes or your life? Which is more important?\\
'''Shizuka:''' ...BOTH ARE!
* WoodenKatanasAreEvenBetter: {{Subverted}}. It can't be denied that Saeko kicks a lot of ass with a bokken, but the vintage katana supplied by Don Takagi is a significant upgrade.
* WouldntHurtAChild: First seen when she stopped abruptly in the midst of one her psychotic episodes. The moment she saw two of "them" were children, she froze because she couldn't bear the thought of harming them, even though they'd been about to kill her. [[PragmaticHero Takashi didn't have that problem]] and [[BoomHeadshot dispatched both]] without hesitation.
* YamatoNadeshiko: {{Subverted}}. While Saeko exhibits several of the qualities you'd expect (i.e. her loyalty and supportiveness of Takashi, taking care of the household, etc.) her violent tendencies and [[BloodKnight thirst for combat]] are a stark contrast to the trope.
* YouGottaHaveBlueHair: She has purple hair, which makes her stand out from the rest of the cast, who have normal hair colors.
%%* ZettaiRyouiki

[[folder:Saya Takagi]]
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/saya_9693.png]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/EriKitamura (JP), Creator/MaggieFlecknoe (EN)

The smartest student of Fujimi Private Academy, Saya isn't afraid to [[InsufferableGenius speak her mind and say exactly what she thinks of others]]. She is also the daughter of a ultra-nationalist politician. Her deductive nature has allowed her to realize several facts about how ''they'' work and her intelligence has saved the group many times.

* AcademicAlphaBitch: And '''''HOW!''''' The girl is a mental giant.
* ActionMom: She ends up essentially adopting Alice as her daughter while still constantly fighting off zombies. And she will go in MamaBear mode whenever anyone threatens Alice.
* ActionSurvivor: If the situation calls for it, Saya participates in combat despite struggling with it.
* AdoptivePeerParent: Saya becomes Alice's new "mother" while she is still a high school student.
* AffectionateNickname: She begins to refer to Alice as "Munchkin", as a sign of her growing [[ParentalSubstitute attachment to her.]]
* ArmorPiercingSlap: When Hirano [[spoiler: [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/08/ fires a shot directly between Shizuka's chest and Alice's head]]]], while suffering from PTSD, Saya belts him. [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/09 Twice.]]
* BedmateReveal: See the DidTheyOrDidntThey entry.
* BerserkButton: She's {{tsundere}} as it is, but she really hates when Alice refers to her as [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-18/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html "Saya-chan"]], rather than than the more respectful term of address, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-33/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html "Saya Onee-sama".]]
* BrattyTeenageDaughter: See TheResenter entry.
* BrightSlap: Tries this on Hirano, after the latter's HeroicBSOD, but fails. Before so, she was on the receiving end from her mother, and even before that, it was Takashi.
* CatchPhrase: She throws the word "stupid" around quite a bit.
* ChildhoodFriendRomance: She used to have a crush on Takashi, when they were younger, and it was implied she might've still had feelings for him at the beginning of the manga. But she's gotten over it and has moved on, since developing an attachment to Hirano.
* ChildhoodFriends: She has been friends with Takashi since kindergarten.
* CrossPoppingVeins: Saya does this the most when talking with Kohta.
* CuteLittleFangs: At least [[http://www.animevice.com/saya-takagi/18-15883/all-images/84-60572/03_03_2011_02_53_42pm/83-370446/ one is always visible]], even while she's sleeping.
* TheCynic: Usually, but considering that most of the group are cynics to a degree themselves...it doesn't say much.
* DidIJustSayThatOutLoud: As the girls are preparing to leave Rika's apartment to pick up Takashi and Alice, she asks what's keeping Hirano, which leads to the following [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtqSZTel7vI (at 1:31-1:52):]]
-->'''Saya:''' "Where's Hirano?"
-->'''Rei: (absentmindedly)''' "What? I think he's still upstairs."
-->'''Saya: (annoyed)''' "Geez... I don't know [[CrouchingMoronHiddenBadass whether he's sharp, or slow."]]
-->'''*background music stops as Hirano shows up fully loaded for bear, [[StunnedSilence stunning the girls]] *'''
-->'''Hirano: (wonders why they're all staring)''' "What? What's the matter?"
-->'''Saya: (turned on)''' "Oh wow... you look so sexy..."
-->'''Hirano: (surprised)''' "Oh! You really think- '''(suddenly realizes what she just said)''' "Wait a minute..."
-->'''Saya: (changing subject)''' "Get in the car!"
* DidTheyOrDidntThey: She has [[BedmateReveal a Type 2]] with Shizuka near the end of ''"Drifters of the Dead"'', after hallucinating spending the night with [[spoiler: her Mom]]. By morning, the effects had worn off and she sees she's lying naked on top of Shizuka, who's also naked. It's never said whether they actually had sex, but they [[ThatDidntHappen agree to pretend it didn't happen.]]
* EroticDream: In the 7th episode, she's shown on the couch with her legs spread while dreaming of Hirano. Then her thought bubble [[DoesThisRemindYouOfAnything dips between her legs and wiggles]], [[LooksLikeSheIsEnjoyingIt making her blush and moan.]]
* EveryoneCanSeeIt: It takes awhile for them to get there, but by chapter 28, it's obvious that the others support the idea of her and Hirano hooking up. Alice most of all.
* FirstNameBasis: She initially referred to Hirano as either "fatty", or "fatass". By chapter 21, things had changed between them to where she now openly addresses him by his first name.
* GirlishPigtails: Has the typical hairstyle of a {{Tsundere}}. No points for guessing why.
* GiveGeeksAChance: It hasn't happened yet, but she's getting there. When [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-2/53/ Hirano asked her out]], [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-2/54/ it made her blush.]]
* HeroicBSOD: Shortly after the drill incident below, she has a freakout. She recovers remarkably quickly, though.
* IncestSubtext: While under the influence of drugs under in the OVA, she hallucinates Shizuka as her mother whose bikini she quickly strips and imagines the two cuddling naked in a hot spring. Her muttering after realizing that she woke up naked next to Shizuka implies that she may really have certain feelings for her mother.
* InsistentTerminology:
** She always tells Takashi to call her by her [[FirstNameBasis first name]].
** Alice will always address Saya as "Saya-chan", no matter how many times Saya reminds Alice to call her "Onee-sama".
* InsufferableGenius:
** In the anime, she often lauds her intellectual superiority over Takashi and the others and frequently calls them "stupid". At one point, going so far as to say she was smarter than all of them combined; albeit during an emotional outburst after nearly being killed.
** Her manga portrayal mostly averts this, by having her occasionally take digs at Hirano about his weight - with the understanding that [[InsultOfEndearment her bark is worse than her bite.]]
* IWantMyBelovedToBeHappy: Despite her own feelings for Hirano, she was willing to step aside so he could be with Asami and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11333-17/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-23.html even suggested taking her with them.]] Then told Takashi he should worry about ''[[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11333-18/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-23.html his own]]'' relationship problems, when she saw the look in his eye.
* LargeHam: Turned ''UpToEleven'' in the English dub.
* LikeAnOldMarriedCouple: By now, she and Kohta practically ''are'' a married couple with Alice as their adopted daughter. Chapter 29 hangs a massive lampshade on it [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/32 here]].
* LustObject: For both Hirano and Takashi's deceased friend, Morita.
** Hirano's got it bad for her ''and'' definitely wants to get into her [[DoubleEntendre hot pants]] (see the NerdsAreSexy entry in her section, and the EroticDream entry in his ).
** During the bonus story at the end of chapter 23, Morita also wanted to tap it. He spends an entire page [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11333-32/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-23.html going on about how hot she is]] and said she had breasts like a bikini model's.
* MamaBear: Don't mess with Alice [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/22 while she's around]], 'cuz she's just as [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/27 violently protective of her]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/28 as Hirano is]].
* {{Meganekko}}: Revealed in chapter 2, after she removed her contact lenses. She wears her glasses from then on.
* MegaTwintails: Her pigtails are impressive in terms of [[RapunzelHair sheer length]] ''and'' volume, with each individually being near equal the width of her head.
* MetaGirl: Of the main cast, she's the one who [[BreakingTheFourthWall breaks the fourth wall]] most frequently.
* MsExposition: As the smartest girl at their school (and likely the cast), she's usually the one to explain important plot details to both the other characters and the readers:
** She was able to accurately assess why going to the staffroom for help was a bad idea and explained why the police hadn't responded to the outbreak at the school. And she was the first to note the zombies were blind and react to sound instead.
** She also gave a detailed summation of [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11325-12/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-15.html how HANE's and EMP's work]], after all the electronics at the Takagi Estate went dead, in chapter 15.
** And during chapter 28, she tells them about [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-8/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html the JSDF's]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-9/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html evacuation plan]], after finding a report about it (albeit, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html with help from Alice]]) on one of the computers at the police HQ where Rei's father was stationed.
** It was even lampshaded by [=WatchMojo=].com, during their countdown for the Top 10 'Anime Cliches'. No.8 on the list was: "overuse of exposition", where they specifically single out Saya (seen [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2aY0iFWi7A at 2:20-2:31]]).
-->'''[=WatchMojo=]:''' "An example of this is Saya Takagi from ''Highschool of the Dead'', who, [[TheSmartGuy due to her outstanding intellect]], will often analyze the group's condition and sum it up for the audience."
* MsFanservice: Takashi ogles her during her introduction and has shown as much skin as Shizuka, Saeko, and Rei.
* NerdsAreSexy: Hirano certainly thinks so, as he becomes attracted to her [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-2/33/ after finding out she wears glasses.]] She even [[CovertPervert caught him perving on her]], in chapter 5, and booted him for it. And if you look closely at the panel where she's giving her EMP explanation, you can see he's both awestruck ''[[PervertedDrooling and drooling]]'' over just how smart she is.
* OdangoHair: Seen only in the ''"Drifters of the Dead"'' OVA, though given [[RapunzelHair the sheer length]] [[MegaTwinTails and volume of her pigtails]], it doubles as an example of CompressedHair.
* {{Ojou}}: Her family is extremely wealthy, complete with a large estate and a BigFancyHouse.
* ParentalSubstitute: Alice eventually comes to regard Saya and Hirano as her parental surrogates within the group.
* PinkIsFeminine: Saya has pink hair, wears matching pink hightop sneakers and, while she and the others were resting at her family's estate, she wore a frilly pink blouse.
* RapunzelHair: Her twintails are long enough to fall past her waist and, when she undoes them, her hair extends halfway down her legs.
* TheResenter: Because of her family's status, her parents expected much of her. The pressure to live up to their standards was stifling for her, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yd4i_I4UPzo which caused her to resent them]] and is the reason she developed such an [[{{tsundere}} abrasive personality.]] Her bitterness grew when she thought they had failed to protect her during the outbreak. It takes [[ArmorPiercingSlap a slap from her mother]], followed by [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9fX6hihnSc a stern lecture]] to finally make her realize how much they cared for her.
* RichBitch: She doesn't flaunt her family's wealth, but she definitely has the attitude.
* {{Shorttank}}: She's had the attitude right from the start, being she's {{tsundere}} and a TomboyWithAGirlyStreak. But it doesn't become official until chapter 18, where she dons her [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-32/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html jean shorts and suspenders + T-shirt ensemble.]]
* TheSmartGirl: Takashi and the others quickly learn to rely on her as the brains of their outfit.
* SmartPeopleWearGlasses: TheSmartGirl of the group, with glasses to show it.
* ThisIsADrill: Cornered by one of ''them'' in a supply closet, she desperately grabs for a weapon... [[{{Squick}} and gets it in the forehead with a battery-powered drill]].
* TomboyWithAGirlyStreak: Despite her family's wealth and her upbringing, Saya isn't exactly what you'd call ladylike. She tends to use strong language and prefers to be in thick of things, rather being left on the sidelines as [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-19/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html it makes her feel useless.]] Which she later explained to Hirano, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-20/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html as her reason for wanting to fight.]] She also prefers to dress casually, but is just as comfortable in feminine wear, [[PinkIsFeminine likes pink]], and beginning in chapter 18, wears a ribbon around her left ankle as a fashion accessory.
* TownGirls: The Neither to Rei's Butch and Shizuka's Femme.
* {{Tsundere}}: Type A. She mostly gives Hirano a hard time, but shows signs of being attracted to him. The most telling instance, by far, was when [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11331-19/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-21.html she pretended not to care]] that Asami and Hirano were getting closer, but [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11331-24/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-21.html was visibly concerned]] that he might've chosen to stay with her.
* TsurimeEyes: Has the typical sharp eyes of a {{Tsundere}}, [[SarcasmMode for whatever reason]].
* UnresolvedSexualTension: Between her and Hirano, to where they've both dreamt about having sex with each other.
* UptownGirl: She is the daughter of a wealthy and influential family, while Hirano is just a middle-class loser {{Otaku}}.
* WellExcuseMePrincess: Saya very often is hard on Kohta, especially when calling him names regarding his weight. However, Saya [[{{Tsundere}} had]] [[LuminescentBlush blushed]] [[CannotStandThemCannotLiveWithoutThem profusely]] when, on a whim, Kohta asked her out.
* WhatTheHellHero: Directed at her father, when she demands to know what he meant by [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-15/21/ "entrusting her" to Hirano.]]
* WillTheyOrWontThey: With Hirano (covered by the ShipTease entry on the main page).
* YouGottaHaveBlueHair: Her hair is carnation pink, which makes her (and Saeko) stand out from the rest of the cast, who have normal hair colors.

[[folder:Kohta Hirano]]
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Kohta_1502.png]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/NobuyukiHiyama (JP), Mark X. Laskowski (EN)

Sixteen-year-old Kohta was a school loser and bully magnet. "Their" appearance changed everything -- his secret obsession with firearms prepared him well for his big break as the gang's resident marksman. Because of this, he winds up teaching the others how to use guns.

* {{Acrofatic}}: He keeps up with the more physically fit members of the group incredibly well when he doesn't have the benefit of staying back to snipe.
* ActionDad: Becoming Alice's adoptive dad doesn't stop him from shooting down zombies.
* AdoptivePeerParent: He ends up becoming Alice's new "father", despite still being a high school student.
%%* {{Adorkable}}
* AscendedFanboy: The ZombieApocalypse has allowed him to finally cut loose and use all his gun lore.
* BerserkButton: Threatening women and children around Kohta is a good way to get a [[BewareTheNiceOnes bullet through your head or a garrote around your neck]]. See directly below.
* BewareTheNiceOnes: An easygoing, kind-hearted, and generally placid soul... who carries enough firepower to depopulate a mid-sized South American republic, and can deploy all of it to deadly effect at a moment's notice. After learning Kohta had training from a Blackwater mercenary, Takashi states that [[GladHesOnOurSide he's glad Kohta's on their side]].
* BewareTheSillyOnes Switches between a loser-ish {{Otaku}} and a psycho when a gun is involved.
* BigBeautifulMan: Even though he's a short fat nerd with glasses, he's actually generally drawn with relatively handsome features. [[spoiler:Takagi soon takes a liking to him as well.]]
* BigDamnHeroes: Hirano gets two crowning moments:
** He came to Alice's rescue, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-7/14/ to save her from a horde]] that'd been drawn to the sound of her crying over her dead father. When Takashi asked what he was doing[[note]]since they had agreed not to use their gus, so they wouldn't attract "them" to their hiding place[[/note]], Hirano's response was: '''[[PunctuatedForEmphasis "IT's. A.]]''' '''[[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11317-14/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-7.html LITTLE. GIRL!!"]]'''
** The next time was to stop Shimada from raping Shizuka, after he refused to back down to Asami. So Hirano [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/04/ ducked into a nearby hardware store]], [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/05/ quickly fashioned a garrote]], then came back and [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/06/ dispensed justice.]]
%%* BigFun
* BreakTheCutie: Meeting Asami was perhaps the best and worst thing to happen to him.
* CovertPervert:
** Seen in chapter 5 when Saya caught him [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-5/28/ checking her out]] on the sly and [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-5/29/ boots him for it.]]
-->'''Saya: (at Hirano)''' '''[[PervertRevengeMode "YOU LECHER!!"]]'''
** And in the following chapter, he asked Takashi if he wanted to see whether there was anything to [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11316-5/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-6.html "protect" the girls from]] while they were bathing, but Takashi wisely chose to live.
* CrazyPrepared: Being extremely knowledgeable about guns in [[ValuesDissonance Japan]] automatically puts him in this category. He also never misses a chance to loads up on as many guns as he can hold on to.
* CripplingOverSpecialization: While he is phenomenal with firearms, Kohta is completely incapable of using melee weapons, which hampers him when the group must be quiet. And, of course, there's always the definite possibility that he may run out of ammo at any moment.
* CrouchingMoronHiddenBadass: Can switch between "bumbling geek" and "walking instrument of death" with frankly worrying rapidity.
* DeclarationOfProtection: Hirano protected Saya during the outbreak at the school and told her he'd keep her safe, as they were boarding the bus, during their escape. But, near the end of chapter 15, her father made it official [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11325-19/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-15.html by entrusting Saya's safety to him]], just before they were forced to abandon the Takagi Estate. Despite her initial objection, she gradually accepts him as her personal bodyguard, of sorts.
* EroticDream: Brought on by hallucinogenic smoke, in the ''"Drifters of the Dead"'' OVA, where he wound up [[spoiler: humping a broomstick]]. With the implication being that he thought he was [[spoiler: banging Saya]].
* FirstNameBasis: For nearly half the manga, he referred to Saya as "Takagi-san", switching to "Saya-san" after she granted him and the others permission to address her by her first name. Beginning in chapter 28, he drops the "san" honorific and she's shown to be okay with it.
* FriendlySniper: [[SlasherSmile Eager,]] but a nice kid overall.
* FriendToAllChildren: Though he is one of the first to accept the notion that [[ShootTheDog not everyone can be saved]], he immediately swings into action to protect Alice/Arisu, knowing that the gunfire will draw more of "them" and compromise their hideout.
* GratuitousEnglish: Spent some time in America and naturally, this carried over. This mostly occurs when he's describing guns.
* TheGunslinger: Kohta is an excellent marksman with many different types of guns, but he usually uses the AR-10 Rifle which has been remodeled in the style of a Knight's SR-25 Sniper Rifle.
* HeroicBSOD: He began showing signs of PTSD after having to [[spoiler: MercyKill Asami]].
* HiddenDepths: That geeky shell hides a deadly efficient gun-enthusiest with an itchy trigger finger.
** While under the influence of hydrangea, he ironically imagines himself as a peace loving hippie calling for revolution and protesting America's involvement in Vietnam. While he was certainly hallucinating, a quip of his afterwards suggests there is a hidden aspect of him.
* ImprobableAimingSkills:
** It's his ability to line up headshots with terrifying speed, precision and regularity that makes this short, chubby {{Otaku}} one of the group's most effective combatants. Justified in that he did get a few lessons from a former Delta Force operative at a Blackwater firing range.
** Best seen in chapter 26, when he fires a shot [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/08/ directly between Takashi and the others]] and scores a headshot on an approaching zombie. Which was done in a split-second when noticed it [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/07/ from the corner of his eye.]] While the shot saved Alice's life, it could just as easily taken it, [[WhatTheHellHero which is why Saya belts him for it. Twice.]]
* ImprovisedWeaponUser: Within pages of his introduction, he [[MacGyvering MacGyver'd]] a [[NailEm nail gun]] and a length of wood into a semi-automatic carbine, which kept him in good stead until he got an actual gun. Later he defused a tense situation by assembling a garrote from materials found at a hardware store.
* LetsGetDangerous: Considering his school life and personality, did anyone expect him to be so competent in a ZombieApocalypse?
* LikeAnOldMarriedCouple: He and Saya are practically married already, with Alice as their adopted daughter.
* LivingEmotionalCrutch: By chapter 26, Takashi believed Saya had become so attached to Hirano, that he was concerned when he began to suffer PTSD, [[spoiler: due to having to MercyKill Asami]]. And tells Shizuka that if he were to die, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/19/ Saya would likely lose the will to live.]]
* LongRangeFighter: A gun otaku, turned gun specialist, after spending a month training on [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11316-10/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-6.html an American Blackwater firing range.]] Hirano's expertise makes him an invaluable asset to their group, since he often lays down cover fire and even [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11319-15/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-9.html begins teaching the others how to use firearms.]]
* {{Megane}}: And thrilled when he finds out Saya wears them, too.
* MentorArchetype: Teaches the others how to use guns.
* MercyKill: [[spoiler:He kills Asami at her own request before "they" get her]].
%%* NerdActionHero
%%* NerdGlasses
* {{Nosebleed}}: Kohta has had quite a few so far.
** He had a mild one when Shizuka kissed him on the cheek in a drunken stupor.
** And again when she turned up half-asleep and ''buck naked'', while the others prepared to leave her friend's house.
** Happens yet again when Asami hugged him.
* {{Otaku}}: If it has anything to do with firearms, he's all over it.
* PapaWolf: You better don't mess with Alice with Hirano around.
* ParentalSubstitute: The group 'adopts' Alice, after saving her and Zeke, but Hirano and Saya are the two who look after her; essentially acting as her new 'parents'.
* SchoolSwimsuit: Seen in the ''"Drifters of the Dead"'' OVA, where he wore a girl's PE swimsuit and actually seemed to enjoy it.
* ScrewTheRulesImDoingWhatsRight: Because of the nature of the setting, this is both his best quality, but also makes him a potential liability to himself and the others:
** Such as when he disregarded the "no shooting" agreement in order to save Alice (see the BigDamnHeroes entry).
** Subverted near the end of chapter 25, when Takashi [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-45/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html put his foot down]] for the sake of the group, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-55384-46/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-25.html by preventing Hirano from helping Asami.]]
* ShellShockedVeteran: While not exactly a war veteran, Shizuka remarked that Kohta's starting to show PTSD symptoms normally seen in soldiers.
* SlasherSmile: Kohta does this a ''lot''. It contrasts very nicely with being a bumbling, spineless nice guy {{Otaku}} [[BewareTheNiceOnes most of the time]].
* TheSmartGuy: Shares this position with Saya, although his specialty is weaponry, whereas Saya's is more worldly facts.
* SociopathicHero: But more emphasis on "hero". Although Kohta has, at times, shown a ginormous SlasherSmile while threatening or injuring people...
** It's implied early on that he was dangerously close to falling off the deep end and going on a shooting spree. The zombies just beat him to it.
* SomethingElseAlsoRises: Done twice at different points in the anime:
** The first time it happens, is when he sees Shizuka naked in episode 6, which causes him to grip his sniper rifle between his legs while it twitched as though he had an erection (which he probably ''did'').
** It happens again in the OVA episode, where he wound up humping a broom handle in a bathing suit, while he was hallucinating. Though the camera angle and twitch animation made it appear that he was jerking off.
%%* SpecsOfAwesome
* SquishyWizard: Excellent in firearms but even he admits that his physical fitness is poor and that he is useless in melee combat.
* UnresolvedSexualTension: See the related entry in Saya's section.
* WillTheyOrWontThey: With Saya.
* YankTheDogsChain: Even after Asami freaks out and calls Hirano some hurtful stuff, she actually does like him. And they seem to get along very well. [[ThrowTheDogABone Yay for Hirano]]. [[spoiler:Then Asami pulls a HeroicSacrifice, and Hirano has to shoot her in the head so she won't turn into one of "them".]]

[[folder:Shizuka Marikawa]]
[[quoteright:211:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/shizuka_2007.png]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/YukariFukui (JP), Creator/MonicaRial (EN)

A 27-year-old spinster who served as Fujimi High's SchoolNurse. While ditzy, Shizuka is naturally very calm, and little fazes her. She is often the group's driver and, being good at her profession, she tends the other character's wounds.

* ActionDressRip: Saeko did her the favor the first time, so it'd be easier for Shizuka to run. She does it herself in chapter 26, before hopping on Alice's bike to give Hirano a piece of her mind for [[spoiler: nearly allowing himself to be killed]].
* AttemptedRape: Shizuka has nearly been a victim twice:
** When she and the others decided to split off from Shidou's group, Shidou tried to manipulate her into staying with them, with [[IHaveYouNowMyPretty clear intentions]] towards her (noted in the second [[Fridge/HighschoolOfTheDead Fridge entry]]).
** While they were at the mall, Shizuka wandered off with Shimada to find a bed to rest in. Except he had [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-35/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html other]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11328-36/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-18.html ideas]], and would've succeeded were it not [[BigDamnHeroes for Asami and Hirano.]]
* BedmateReveal: With Saya, near the end of the ''"Drifters of the Dead"'' OVA.
* BetweenMyLegs: Episode 9. [[MsFanservice While she's naked]].
* BewareTheSillyOnes: When some of the students on the bus complain about Shizuka's driving and Takashi's group plan to escape by heading into the city, she [[BrakeAngrily hits the brake]] and practically tells them all to shut the fuck up. Cue students shutting the fuck up.
** Later, she [[spoiler:gives Hirano a PepTalk like a veteran ''drill sergeant.'']]
* BadassDriver: Don't let her [[TheDitz ditzy]] [[TheChick and emotionally supportive]] demeanor fool you - she's one mean badass behind the wheel.
* BigBreastPride: Shizuka takes great pride in the gargantuan size of her breasts and couldn't resist flaunting them in front of Rei, during the bath scene in chapter 6:
-->'''Rei: (absolutely incredulous)''' "Th-'''[[GagBoobs THEY'RE HUGE!!]]'''"
-->'''Shizuka: (smug, while fluffing her breasts)''' "Yeah... I get that a lot."
* CarFu: Despite not having handled any weapons ''per se'', Marikawa-sensei has the highest body count of all the survivors due to her, ahem, forceful driving.
-->'''Hirano''': How can she make the Humvee move like that???
* {{Cloudcuckoolander}}: She is always dazing off.
* TheChick: She takes care of the group's injuries and serves as the TeamMom. On the other hand, she has not handled any sort of weapon thus far; subverted in that her driving gives her a very high kill count.
-->'''Shizuka:''' "[[LampshadeHanging I'm not supposed to be this kind of character!]]"
* CovertPervert: It doesn't show often, but Shizuka's mind seems to be firmly in the gutter:
** Such as the time [[https://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/5/28 she grabbed Takashi's crotch]], when they went riding in chapter 5. Made moreso by the dialog in the anime version:
-->'''Shizuka: (one hand covering Takashi's crotch)''' "Whoa! It's been so long [[DoubleEntendre since I felt something like this!"]]
-->'''Takashi: (smiling dreamily)''' "Um... you're talking about ''the motorcycle''... aren't you?"
-->'''Shizuka: (feigning innocence)''' "Whaaat? What did you say? I can't hee~aar yooo~uuu!"
-->'''Takashi: (a bit louder)''' "Uh... I was just saying-"
-->'''Shizuka: (still playing innocent)''' "I can't hear yoooo~ouuu!"
** She was also quick to assume he wanted to have sex with her when he said [[https://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/26/16 he "needed her"]][[note]]Takashi only wanted her opinion of Hirano's emotional state at that time[[/note]]. While she replied it wasn't the time, or place for it, her blush and the way she was smiling [[https://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/26/17 implied she might've consented]] otherwise.
** Also, when they raid the convenience store, Shizuka picks up a box of condoms and [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/3 is seen smiling to herself.]] When Hirano asks to borrow one, [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/4 she blushed and wanted to know why?]] But seemed just as interested that it was to protect the barrel of his rifle [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/5 from being clogged by grime and mud.]]
** And when Hirano tells Alice she's holding a net launcher, Shizuka smiles and has an ImagineSpot of [[spoiler: [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/8 lying with her legs spread, while he used it to squirt semen all over her]]]][[note]]since "net" is a slang term for "semen"[[/note]]. Hirano [[BreakingTheFourthWall literally sees what she's thinking]] and clears up the misunderstanding.
** Then she takes it and stuffs it in her cleavage, because she thought it was [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/9 the best place to put it.]] Saya and the others tell her she didn't have to do that.
* DidTheyOrDidntThey: After being effected by hydrangea smoke in the OVA, she hallucinates about spending the night in bed with Rika. But once the effect wears off the following morning, it's revealed that she had actually spent the night with Saya. It isn't said how far things went, or if anything happened at all.
* TheDitz: Shizuka could at least ''pretend'' to realize there's a ZombieApocalypse outside.
* DrivesLikeCrazy: Her one redeeming ability for much of the series. Whenever she's behind the wheel, she tends to rack up [[TheJaywalkingDead body counts]] that Saeko and Hirano could only dream of.
* DumbBlonde: She has long blonde hair and is the most ditzy character in the series.
* EroticEating: She can be seen choking on a banana in one scene, after Saya announces that she may not be able to continue on with the group.
* FriendsWithBenefits: Implied that she doesn't mind getting naked with Rika while under the influence of drugs in the OVA, imagining Takagi as her friend. While she remains her ditzy self under influence, its still hinted that she wouldn't have minded without the drugs.
* GagBoobs: Shizuka's breasts are so ginormous that she [[http://sadeeyore.com/anime-screencaps/picture.php?/180662-thumb_0278/category/246-episode_1_spring_of_the_dead can use them as pillows]] and, in chapter 26, Zeke/Zero got launched from her cleavage after being stuck between them. They even make dull spring-like sound effects whenever she moves.
* GetAHoldOfYourselfMan: Looks all set to deliver a bike-powered slap to [[spoiler:Kohta during his B.S.O.D., but instead she gives him a pep talk]]. It works out the same way.
* HiddenDepths: She was the one to [[spoiler:snap Kohta out of his short PTSD-esque period]] when Takashi, Alice/Arisu, ''and'' Saya failed.
* TheLoad: {{Subverted}}, see the [[TheTeamBenefactor Team Benefactor]] entry.
* LustObject: Her age (27) hasn't stopped ''anyone'' from finding her sexually appealing. Takashi's friend, Imamura, said she was hot specifically ''because'' [[LikesOlderWomen she's an older woman.]] Takashi and Hirano have also been aroused by her, while Shimada said she had a nice body, right before trying to rape her; and even ''[[{{Asexual}} Shido]]'' of people is shown to be physically attracted to her.
* MarshmallowHell: Whenever she's scared/startled there is a very good chance someone's going to end up with her breasts in their face. Or pressed up against their back.
* MeaningfulName: "Shizuka" means "quiet and peaceful".
* TheMedic: It isn't often that she gets to apply her expertise, since the others are good at avoiding serious injury. Though she was able to treat Rei while they're at the Takagi Estate, after she hurt her back in a fall. And she was able to diagnose the old woman at the mall as having [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-20/04/ Rheumatoid Arthritis]], [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-20/06/ from what her husband told her.]]
* MsFanservice: Which is to say, she's the one female character who this trope applies to the most [[WorldOfBuxom in a series like this]]. Her breast are enough to incite Rei's envy, and [[StatuesqueStunner the rest of her figure's]] nothing to sneeze at either. She provides most of the fanservice in the series and there's even a time where she's out naked when everyone else had dressed up.
* NeutralFemale: Aside from her CarFu moments, Shizuka is completely incapable of direct combat.
* TheNotLoveInterest: Though she can be a bit of a tease (when drunk), she has no romantic interest in either Takashi, or Hirano. And they never think of her as anything other than the group's designated driver.
* RapunzelHair: Her hair extends down past her waist.
* SayItWithHearts: Whenever she's being flirtatious, or thinking something perverted:
** First seen while Rei was groping her and (apparently) touching her inappropriately, [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-11316-3/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-6.html not that Shizuka seemed to mind.]]
-->'''Shizuka: (from off-panel)''' "No! Not '''THERE!''' ♥ No more! ♥"
** Also when Takashi was carrying her while she was drunk and unintentionally grabbed her butt, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-6/23/ causing her to whimper]] and flirt with him.
** Seen again when she thought he wanted to have sex with her, causing her to blush tell him it wasn't the time or place for it. She's seen [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/17/ smiling while surrounded by hearts]], implying she might've gladly consented if they hadn't been in public, or surrounded by "them".
** Also when Hirano asked to borrow [[spoiler: a condom]] from her, [[http://www.mangareader.net/high-school-of-the-dead/29/4 her tongue takes the shape of a heart]] when she asks why.
* SchoolNurse: Her position at Fujimi High before all hell broke loose.
* StatuesqueStunner: Shizuka is ''very'' tall at 176cm or 5'9½".
* TheTeamBenefactor: While it may not seem like it at first, Takashi and the others' survival is largely due to Shizuka's contributions.
** She was the one who made their escape from the school possible, by suggesting they head to the Teachers' Lounge to get a set of keys to one of the buses. And, she was the only one who knew how to drive it, along with all the other times her driving has gotten them out of hairy situations.
** Shizuka also provided them with [[TraumaInn a place where they could eat and rest]] at the end of their first day, [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iW6ZzFfugxM by letting them use her friend's apartment.]] A decision that enabled Hirano and the others to also arm themselves, since it gave them access to Rika's weapon's cache and ammo supplies. Plus, access to a new vehicle and a change of clothes.
** And she was able to treat Rei's back injury, effectively keeping their fighting force at four strong. Whereas without her medical expertise, one of their best combatants might not have recovered.
* TeamMom: She has a very calm personality, and takes care of the group's injuries.
* TheTease: In moments like the time she [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-5/29/ she went riding with Takashi]], or the time she got drunk and [[http://citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-6/23/ came onto both him and Hirano.]]
* TokenAdult: She's 27 and is the only one of the main characters that's out of highschool. Despite this, Takashi leads the group, while Saya is the brains. Shizuka mainly serves as their driver and, occasionally, as medic.
* TomboyAndGirlyGirl: Girly girl to Saeko's tomboy.
* TooDumbToLive: So... with a horde of "them" right outside her office windows, with the glass cracking beneath the strain, and her assistant desperately urging her to hurry up and leave since "they'd" be breaking through at any second, she... decides to [[TakeYourTime take her time.]] Then when "they" broke through and swarmed the poor guy, rather than try to help him, or at least run for it, she spaces out while watching him being EatenAlive, 'til it finally dawned on her to ask what his name was. Had Saeko not shown up at that moment, Shizuka would've been dead.
* TookALevelInBadass: Gained gained several levels when she [[spoiler:[[GetAHoldOfYourselfMan talked Kohta out of committing suicide by zombie]]]]. For bonus points she [[ActionDressRip tore her own skirt]] beforehand.
* TownGirls: The Femme to Rei's Butch and Saya's Neither.

[[folder:Alice/Arisu Maresato]]
[[quoteright:205:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Alice_Maresato_5333.jpg]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/AyanaTaketatsu (JP), Creator/BrittneyKarbowski (EN)

Seven-year-old Alice/Arisu was rescued from "them" by Takashi after a group of hideaways killed her father and closed the door on her. Being an innocent ray of sunshine amidst the bleakness of their situation, the group quickly took a liking to her and has since adopted her as a little sister figure.

* BeautyMark: She has a small mole under her left eye.
* BringMyBrownPants: She pees on Takashi's back after he rescues her from a zombie horde.
* CheerfulChild: To say she lost both her parents and found herself with a group of strangers, only moments later, she's taken it remarkably well. Her cheeriness has even rubbed off Takashi and the others, somewhat.
* ChildrenAreInnocent: [[EnforcedTrope Enforced]] in universe. When she asks what weapon she gets to use, Kohta tells her that he, Takashi, and [[TeamPet Zeke/Zero]] [[SugarWiki/FunnyMoments are her weapons]].
** At the same time though, they do acknowledge that eventually she's going to need to be given a weapon. They're just trying to avoid [[TroublingUnchildlikeBehavior making her do so]] for as long as they can manage.
* CryCute: Seen in chapter 29, when Saya whaps her on the noggin for making her worry. They make-up afterwards.
* CuriousAsAMonkey:
** While Saya's on the computer at the police station, Alice sees a button and [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-6/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html presses it on impulse]], causing Saya to snap at her... until she sees it's brought up [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-7/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html the information she was looking for.]]
** Also seen in chapter 29 when she asks Hirano [[spoiler: [[TheTalk what condoms are for]]]] and why he's never used one... [[Funny/HighschoolOfTheDead in front of Saya!]]
* TheCutie: Even in the midst of a gun battle, while they were surrounded by "them". Despite being terrified (evident from [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-9/21/ her trembling hands]]), she still wanted to help.
* DamselInDistress: Hirano and Takashi came to her rescue in chapter 7, to save her from a horde of "them". She nearly falls victim again, after falling off her bike in chapter 29, causing Saya to go into MamaBear mode.
* FingerlessGloves: Wears these whilst riding her bike... up a multiplatform display case.
* HappilyAdopted: She is "adopted" by the group after her father dies, with Kohta and Saya acting as her foster parents.
* HarmfulToMinors: She sees her father get fatally {{impaled|WithExtremePrejudice}}.
* TheHeart: She's everyone's little sister because she's " an innocent ray of sunshine amidst the bleakness of their situation".
* HeartwarmingOrphan: For all of them, including Saya, who affectionately refers to Alice [[AffectionateNickname as "Munchkin".]]
* PleaseDontLeaveMe: Seen in episode 8, when it appeared that Hirano and the others were about to die, he tried to convince Alice to escape by saying [[GoOnWithoutMe they'd be right behind her.]] Except she saw through it and refused to go, because [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdbyCpGg6aI the thought of being alone again]] terrifies her more than "they" do.
* RescueIntroduction: Introduced when the group goes to save her from "them" after her father's death.
* ShipperOnDeck: She's closest to Hirano and Saya, as though they're her foster parents within the group. So [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-22/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html when it seemed they were getting closer]] [[http://www.mangareader.net/170-58604-23/high-school-of-the-dead/chapter-28.html she waves a pair of flags.]]
* SpellMyNameWithAnS: Alice or Arisu?
* TagalongKid: She's been a part of their group ever since Hirano and Takashi saved her from "them".
* TokenMiniMoe: The only prepubescent character in the cast where the majority of characters are either adults or teenagers.

[[folder:Zeke/Zero]]
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/zeke_9.jpg]]

Alice/Arisu's pet dog. He and Alice/Arisu were almost killed but for Hirano and Takashi's intervention. He accompanies the gang as Alice/Arisu companion and can differentiate who are the living and who are the undead.

* BewareTheNiceOnes: In the OVA BeachEpisode, Zeke/Zero gathered some leaves for the people to start a camp fire, which turned out to be hydrangea leaves. This resulted in the hilarious and ''very'' absurd MushroomSamba of the rest of the episode. After the credits, Zeke/Zero is shown gathering the leaves again, with an evil smirk on his face.
* CanineCompanion: To Alice. Wherever ''she'' goes, ''he'' goes.
* DubNameChange / GeniusBonus: Zeke is known as Zero [[{{Woolseyism}} in the official English dub]]. The [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitsubishi_A6M_Zero Mitsubishi A6M Reisen]] fighter plane had the official reporting name of "Zeke" among the Allies, but it is far, ''far'' better known as the Zero.
* EvilDetectingDog: Zeke will bark whenever there's any of "them" lurking nearby, which tells them to prepare themselves.
* SomethingElseAlsoRises: In [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-26/28/ this scene]], where he gets wedge between Rei and Shizuka's breasts; causing his tail to [[DoesThisRemindYouOfAnything jut straight into the air, near Rei's mouth.]] Making it the only time anyone was ever jealous of a dog.
* SpellMyNameWithAnS: Zeke or Zero?
%%* TeamPet

[[folder:Koichi Shidou]]

[[quoteright:225:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/94779_8520.jpg]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/KisshoTaniyama (JP), Creator/IllichGuardiola (EN)

Class 3-A's teacher. Rei had beef on him since he flunked her out [[spoiler:because of their fathers' radically differing political beliefs]]. He doesn't care much for the lives of others, and even in the midst of the zombie apocalypse, is apparently planning to build a cult centered on himself.

* {{Asexual}}: Implied. Aside from [[MsFanservice Shizuka]] of course, Koichi shows no interest in the female gender.
* BitchInSheepsClothing: He sets himself up as a kind and caring instructor, but even before the ZombieApocalypse, he was a sociopathic asshole who only cared about himself. The only ones who are fooled by his act are his followers, and that's because they're too blinded by their fear and desperation to see him for the monster he really is.
* BlatantLies: Shidou could almost turn empty flattery into an art form, if his followers weren't so easily manipulated, and if he wasn't so hammy.
* CorruptionOfAMinor: Thanks to his own perversion and sexual lust, the students left in his care become a group of deviants, who openly engage in full-blown orgies. Two of whom, become a pair a SchoolgirlLesbians.
* CrocodileTears: Yes, he can ''and will'' cue these up to further [[ManipulativeBastard play on his students' heartstrings like violins.]]
* DirtyCoward: For all his bravado, Shidou's a sniveling weasel, immediately running at the sight of "Them" and cowering in fear when Kohta points a gun at him. His cowardice is the ''only'' reason Rei opts not to kill him, declaring he's [[NotWorthKilling not worth the effort]].
* DisproportionateRetribution: Prior to the beginning of the series, Shidou used his position as Rei's teacher to make her repeat her junior year, as instructed by his father - because of a grudge he had against ''her'' father for exposing his political corruption.
* EstablishingCharacterMoment: When one of his students tripped and sprained his ankle, Shidou smashed his face in with his heel, rather than help him up. Then smugly declared there was no place for the weak in "the new world" and left him to die.
* EvenBadMenLoveTheirMamas: He loves his mother deeply and her suicide still hurts him in the present. He (rightfully) blames his father for it.
* EvilIsHammy: As time passes, Shidou's theatrics become increasingly flamboyant and cheesy; making grand, flailing gestures with his arms. All the while praising his students as beacons of hope and light, who serve as shining examples for him.
* EvilTeacher: If his students' minds weren't so fragile, it'd be easy for them to see him as the charlatan he is.
* FreudianExcuse: Make no mistake on what a slimy scumbag Shidou is, but his early life wasn't exactly grand despite being the son of a prominent politician. His parents would frequently argue, with his father revealed to have cheated on his mother, leading her to drink heavily and later die of alcohol poisoning. After becoming a teacher, he found out that his father secretly had another son with the woman who the man had cheated for, and losing his birthright of being the political successor to his father.
* FourEyesZeroSoul: He has no reservations about condemning others to die, if they aren't blindly obedient to him, or suit his ideals.
* HarbingerOfImpendingDoom: Every time he shows up, something bad is going to happen. Even if he's not on-screen, he's causing problems for the protagonists. [[spoiler: When they meet Rei's mother, she's locked out of her hideout by her ungrateful neighbors, while she was looking for supplies, on the word of "a really strange guy with a group of kids" while "THEY" are bearing down on her.]]
* HateSink: He's not really a direct threat to the heroes at all, and he has nothing to do with the series' central conflict, but he provides the audience with a truly contemptible villain to hate that the completely mindless "THEM" can't.
* HotTeacher: He's a young, well-dressed and handsome man, which helps cover just how much of a scumbag he is. His tendency to make creepy expressions still makes his true character obvious.
* InTheBlood: As much as Shidou despises his father, in the end, he's just like him. Possibly even worse.
* ItsAllAboutMe: It didn't take Saya long to recognize Shidou's agenda and point it out to Hirano and the others. Which is why she decided it was best for their group to leave him.
* KarmaHoudini: He never faced charges for what he did to Rei and her father, with his facade as [[BitchInSheepsClothing a kind and caring instructor]] being an insult to injury.
%%* LackOfEmpathy
* ManipulativeBastard: Shidou took advantage of their fragile minds and desperation for guidance, by ingratiating himself to them. He shamelessly flattered them and let them do as they pleased, under the guise of humility. It worked.
* NothingPersonal: He doesn't hold anything against Rei when he held her back a year, seeing it as a way to ensure he can finally bring down his father's political career.
* NotWorthKilling: The only reason Rei spared him, is because she saw him as the sniveling coward he was, despite his bravado, and decided he wasn't worth it.
* PutOnABus: To near-literal levels. Shidou and his students are placed in a bus when Souichiro tells them to leave the Takagi estate.
* SharpDressedMan: His signature attire is a pinstripe suit.
* SmugSnake: At least, until he's faced with someone like Takagi, Hirano, and Rei, who can put him in his place.
* SocialDarwinist: See the EstablishingCharacterMoment entry.
* TheSociopath: When it comes down to it, Shidou cares for no one but himself. Anyone who doesn't follow suit with his ideals, such as Yamada, is promptly gotten rid of. He curries favor with those with simple minds and base desires, like himself, which puts him at odds with strong-willed students, such as Takagi (who goes so far as to compare him to a certain religion/cult [[Administrivia/RuleOfCautiousEditingJudgment which shall not be named]] in the English dub) and Hirano, who sees through his facade from the start.
* StrikeMeDownWithAllOfYourHatred: {{Subverted}}. Though he dared Rei to kill him when she held him at knife-point, his perspiration revealed his cowardice at the thought of actually being killed.
* TheUnfavorite: His choosing to be a teacher causes a rift between him and his father. Not that their relationship is healthy, to begin with.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Admittedly not his fault, but when [[spoiler: the emp went off, his crashing the school bus is what allowed the Takagi compound to be overrun.]]
* TrappedInVillainy: Implied. All he wanted was to become a teacher, which he accomplishes. However, this did not sit well with his father, who wanted him to follow him into politics. Despite this, his father still has control over him as he was able to force Shidou to flunk Rei since her father is one of his father's political adversaries/critics.
* VillainousBreakdown: Shidou lost his composure and verbally lashed out at Rei for looking down on him. It was the last straw. Having learned of Shidou's corruption and seeing his cowardice firsthand, Souichiro ordered him and his students to leave his estate.

[[folder:Rika Minami]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/JunkoTakeuchi (JP), Melissa Davis (EN)

A special ops police officer who happened to be Shizuka's roommate. Cold sniper at heart, or not so cold. She had been held up in the airport along with other special forces, clearing zombies so that the airport can be used by survivors to escape.

* ADayInTheLimelight: Has a chapter involving her situation in the airport, to [[spoiler:Tajima's HeroicSacrifice]], and finally able to contact Shizuka. And seeing an EMP bomb out the airport window until the chapter ends.
* BackToBackBadasses: With her partner, Tajima.
* BoobsOfSteel: One of the most competent {{Action Girl}}s in the series and is as well-endowed as most female characters.
* CliffHanger: Last seen getting ready to head back to the mainland to look for Shizuka.
* CrazyPrepared: Kept a stockpile of ammunition and high powered weapons in her own home.
* FairCop: Member of the police special forces and is as ggod-looking as the rest of the cast.
%%* FriendlySniper
* GoodLookingPrivates: She was in the military prior to her police career.
* GunNut: Perhaps even morso than Hirano, as she kept the locker in her apartment loaded with a bevy of illegal firearms and assault rifles.
* TheGunslinger: Rika is almost as proficient at headshots as Hirano, though his speed is shown to be greater.
* ItHasBeenAnHonor: After she sees her partner [[spoiler: Tajima]]'s been bitten, she salutes him then leaves him to take himself out along with the fuel tanker. Which also [[TakingYouWithMe took out all the zombies in the vicinity of the blast.]]
%%* SneezeCut
* StrictlyProfessionalRelationship: Though Tajima flirts with her on occasion, their partnership is a platonic one.

[[folder:Hisashi Igo]]
[[quoteright:205:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Hisashi_Igo_3814.jpg]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/MamoruMiyano (JP), Creator/DavidMatranga (EN)

Rei's new boyfriend and Takashi's best friend. He's shown to be calm and cool-headed, and was even willing to believe Takashi when told about a murder in front of the school, even arming them with makeshift weapons. By these characteristics, one could be forgiven for thinking he would be the protagonist.

Unfortunately, despite boasting hand-to-hand combat abilities, he was bitten by a zombie teacher and asked Takashi to mercy kill him. However, Takashi hesitated and Hisashi became a zombie before finally being killed. Rei was haunted by his death and as a result distrusted Takashi for a while.

* AlwaysSomeoneBetter: He is this to Takashi, early on Rei almost consistently bring him up, seemingly to get Takashis' goat, it takes a couple of {{Big Shut Up}}s' for her to get the message.
* BetterToDieThanBeKilled: Averted. He wanted to commit suicide so he wouldn't turn into one of "them". Unfortunately, he doesn't make it in time and isn't killed until he gets up briefly as one of "them".
* TheBroCode: Him dating Rei after her break-up with Takashi causes tension between them.
* DeadStarWalking: Voiced by the very famous Creator/MamoruMiyano in the original, set to be a major player in the story... killed off very early in.
* DecoyProtagonist: At first, one might assume he's the main character, until he turns into one of "them".
* AFriendInNeed: Hisashi provided Rei with the emotional support she needed, after Shidou flunked her. Since she thought Takashi had abandoned her, she broke up with him because of her newly developed feelings for Hisashi.
* GoodOldFisticuffs: Hisahi gets bitten by one of "them" while trying to restrain it in a choke hold. In all fairness, he had no way of knowing it'd be able to rotate its head 360º.
* NiceGuy: According to Rei, it was part of [[SingleWomanSeeksGoodMan the reason she fell for him.]]
* RomanticFalseLead: He was Rei's boyfriend. Unfortunately, for him, while she was the female lead, he ''wasn't'' the protagonist. And since the story is about a zombie apocalypse, one can guess how they resolved ''that'' issue....
* SacrificialLion: His two deaths are the threshold through which Takashi and Rei pass to gain the will to survive this apocalypse.
* TemporaryLoveInterest: He is introduced as Rei's boyfriend, but they got rid of him in the very first episode.
* TwoGuysAndAGirl: He teamed up with Takashi and Rei during the outbreak, at Fujimi High.
* UndignifiedDeath: His wish to be {{Mercy Kill}}ed before reanimating didn't happen, and his best friend was forced to deliver the finishing blow by whacking his head.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: Poor guy didn't make it past the first chapter.

[[folder:Asami Nakaoka]]
[[quoteright:205:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Asami_Nakaoka_1124.jpg]]

An 18 year old female patrol officer that Takashi's group meets at the mall. She has a kind heart and a rather timid personality, often referring to herself as "this officer". Because she's inexperienced, she tends to overcompensate when helping civilians.

When her CO[[note]]"Commanding Officer" (i.e. direct superior)[[/note]] left the mall to go for help, she was left in charge of overseeing the other mall survivors. Maintaining order proved to be a difficult task for her, until Hirano and the others came to her aid. She quickly developed feelings for Hirano, creating an uncomfortable love triangle between them and Saya.

* BadassAdorable: She has her moments.
* BigDamnHeroes: Subverted. She may not have been the one to stop Shimada from raping Shizuka, but she at least stalled him long enough for Hirano to show up. [[spoiler: And she sacrificed herself to save a child, despite fearing for her own life]].
* CryCute: And not without reason, considering all the misfortune she had heaped upon her. The only time she ever cried out of happiness was when Hirano asked her to come with him.
* TheCutie: It's apparent from the moment Takashi and the others first meet her. She's presented as cheerful, perky, and eager to make a good impression as a police officer.
* EarlyBirdCameo: She's first seen in chapter 0, being chewed out by her CO, Matsushima. [[spoiler: Sadly, both of them are eventually killed]].
* FairCop: See TheCutie entry.
* TheGlomp: Towards Kohta.
* GoOutWithASmile: [[spoiler:The last we see of her is a smile and salute, through [[MercyKill Kohta's sniper scope]]]].
* HeroicSelfDeprecation: Despite all she'd done to help the mall survivors, seeing how calm and rationally Hirano was handling things, following the incident at the clinic, made her feel inadequate as an adult and as an officer. Being rejected by him moments later, only made it worse.
* HonorBeforeReason: Justified by her status as a police officer. This culminates in her [[spoiler:[[HeroicSacrifice heroically sacrificing herself]] to rescue the bratty kid who had earlier shanked one of the mall survivors]].
* KillTheCutie: A newly assigned traffic officer stationed alone at a mall during a ZombieApocalypse, without so much as a sidearm to protect herself. [[spoiler:Who then went above an beyond the call of duty to save a kid from "them", despite being terrified. You can guess how it ended for her]].
* LuminescentBlush: Seen when she first fell in love Hirano and while she was dropping hints that she was available ''[[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-19/25/ and interested]]'', while they were alone on the roof.
* MauveShirt: [[spoiler:Takashi's group first met her in chapter 18 and she was given seven chapters worth of focus and development before she sacrificed herself, to cover their escape]].
* MercyKill: Does one for Tamaru, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-20/31/ after he was caught by "them"]]. [[spoiler: Five chapters later, [[http://www.citymanga.com/highschool_of_the_dead/chapter-25/61/ she asked Hirano to do the same for her]], before "they" got to her]].
* NewMeat: Asami gives off the sense that she has just graduated from the police academy and has never really had a serious assignment before all hell broke loose.
* NiceGirl: Right down to having InnocentBlueEyes and willing to do whatever it takes to help the survivors left in her care.
* NoGoodDeedGoesUnpunished: She was fresh from the academy and only recently assigned to her post at the mall, so her inexperience showed. Which made her an easy scapegoat for the group of survivors, who foisted the responsibility for their situation squarely on her, despite all her efforts to help them.
* PantyShot: Along with [a gratuitous ass shot and focus on her thighs.
* RescueRomance: She fell hard for Hirano after he stood up to Shimada for her and followed him up to the roof, moments later, to thank him. Then she made it clear how she felt about him.
* SayItWithHearts: Or simply a heart, period, upon seeing Hirano take charge for once.
* ShootTheDog: Used after [[spoiler:Hirano]] turns her down, to make the rejection hurt less.
* ThirdPersonPerson: Japanese police officers are specifically trained to never use first-person pronouns when speaking to other people and instead refer to themselves as "this officer".
** Asami, [[NewMeat being the nervous rookie she is]], slips between this and the regular ThirdPersonPerson, mainly because she is so inexperienced. She only addresses herself as "I" [[spoiler:right before she dies]].
* YankTheDogsChain: She was offered a chance at happiness with Hirano and his friends, but circumstance and her duties as a police officer] [[KillTheCutie wouldn't allow it.]]

[[folder:Soichirou and Yuriko Takagi]]
[[quoteright:205:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Soichirou_and_Yuriko_Takagi_3513.jpg]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/JojiNakata (Soichirou - JP), Creator/YoshikoSakakibara (Yuriko - JP), Creator/AndrewLove (Soichirou - EN), Creator/ShelleyCaleneBlack (Yuriko - EN)

Parents of Saya Takagi. Soichirou is a Japanese ultranationalist who married Yuriko, a woman who had connections with the New York Stock Exchange and therefore their family fortunes increased.

After the initial stages of the outbreak their mansion was converted to a stronghold and refuge for survivors within the area. They take a liking to Takashi, Saya's childhood friend. Soichirou also expresses interest in Saeko, daughter of the Busujima family, and presented his sword to her.

* ActionDad: Soichirou, who is able to behead several of "them" with just one slash of his katana.
* ActionDressRip: Yuriko on her own accord.
* ActionMom: Yuriko. Before giving birth to Saya, she trained to protect herself from muggers in New York. This becomes really useful when the ZombieApocalypse starts. She's even introduced after using a flamethrower to save everyone.
* BadassFamily: Just look at their other tropes and what their daughter's like.
* BattleCouple: Hell yes. They fight back-to-back while taking out the zombies overtaking the mansion.
* BenevolentBoss: Both to their Ultranationist followers and Takashi's group.
* BigDamnHeroes: Yuriko pulls this one off in Episode 8.
* BolivianArmyEnding: [[spoiler:They're last seen fighting "them" at their own mansion. We haven't heard from them since.]]
* BoobsOfSteel: Yuriko is a great shot and is as stacked as most of the female characters in this series.
* BornInTheWrongCentury: If this was not the 21st century, Soichirou would have been ''the'' paragon of what it means to be a [[{{Samurai}} Japanese Warrior]], in martial skill AND nobility of soul.
* CrazyPrepared: They live in an extremely fortified, semi-self sufficient compound. Even though it's temporary, it proves to be one of the safest shelters against the zombies.
* TheDon: Soichirou is the leader of an uyoku dantai, or right-wing nationalist group. He commands a small army of loyal, militarized men and protects and controls a territory after the fall of law and order. As a bonus, uyoku dantai have historically had an association with [[{{Yakuza}} organized crime in Japan]], but this is not confirmed or denied in the Takagis' case.
* DoWithHimAsYouWill: As soon as [[spoiler:he discovers that Shidou flunked Rei because her father was investigating Shidou's own CorruptPolitician father, Soichirou gives Rei free reign to take revenge and kill him. When Rei ultimately decides he's NotWorthKilling, Soichirou instead banishes Shidou and his followers from his estate.]]
* EveryoneHasStandards: While they suffer from HonorBeforeReason, offering shelter and protection to even the civilians that actively oppose their efforts to keep Them under control, Shidou and his followers are just too evil for them to tolerate. As soon as Soichirou learns from Rei what a scumbag Shidou really is [[spoiler:and how he flunked Rei on his CorruptPolitician father's orders, he [[DoWithHimAsYouWill gives Rei free reign to take revenge on him]], and when Rei decides he's [[NotWorthKilling not worth it]]]], he forces Shidou and his students to leave.
* FourthDateMarriage: They got married ''the day after they met'', according to Saya.
* GetOut: Having seen Shidou's true colors and cowardice with his own eyes, Soichirou orders him to leave along with his students, recognizing that said students have been [[CorruptionOfAMinor tainted by Shidou's evil]].
-->'''Soichirou''': Get outta here! And take your students! The ones who have already been infected by your evil!
* TheGunslinger: In contrast of her husband, Yuriko whips out a sub-machine gun, and [[ImprobableAimingSkills is pretty damn good with it]].
* GuysSmashGirlsShoot: Soichirou wields a sword while Yuriko uses a sub-machine gun.
* HonorBeforeReason: They offer shelter and protection to civilians, even those who [[WhatAnIdiot actively oppose their efforts to keep "them" under control]]. Except Shidou and his followers.
* HypercompetentSidekick: Yuriko, who plays the quiet, demure wife in public, is singlehandedly responsible for a hundredfold increase in the Takagi family fortune. And her firearm skills dwarf most.
* KatanasAreJustBetter: Soichirou rejects guns in favor of his sword. Considering he can cut three or four zombies with each slice, he is probably right.
* KickingAssInAllHerFinery: Yuriko is wearing an elegant gown during her and her husband's LastStand.
* LadyOfWar: Yuriko.
* LargeHam: Soichirou. It helps that Creator/JojiNakata is PERFECTLY cast for this role.
* LastStand: [[spoiler:Both choose to hold off "them" while Saya and her friends escape to safety.]] Exactly how this ended remains unknown.
* MsFanservice: Like majority of the female characters, Yuriko is well-endowed and is in great shape. Hirano even ogles her.
* NonIdleRich: They are pretty wealthy, as their BigFancyHouse shows. That doesn't stop them from fighting off the zombies overtaking their mansion.
* PatrioticFervor: While downplayed, they are explicitly the head of an ''uyoku dantai'', a Japanese type of group or fraternity characterized by intense nationalism, reactionary politics, imperial apologetics and protests of leftist and foreign interests.
* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: In Episode 10, he correctly identifies Hirano as a badass--pretty damn impressive, considering he's on the floor weeping like a baby at the time--and stops his men from trying to take his guns.
** And in the next episode. [[spoiler:"What's that, little girl, you say this man, the son of my political ally, flunked you because your father was investigating his for corruption? Well, okay then, you have my permission to kill him." So basically, to Soichirou, if you avenge your ne'er-do-well father on his well-meaning antagonist's daughter, it's a MoralEventHorizon and grounds for a summary execution by your victim.]]
* SilkHidingSteel: Whenever her husband is speaking, Yuriko can be seen maintaining a demure composure... Until "they" break into the complex and she and her husband have to fight for their lives.
* StacysMom: Hirano ogles her during her ActionDressRip.
* TallDarkAndSnarky: Soichirou is imposing both physically and in character.
* YouGottaHaveBlueHair: Yuriko has pinkish purple hair.

[[folder:Miku Yuuki]]
[[quoteright:210:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/miku_yuuki.png]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Airi Sakuno (JP), Creator/EmilyNeves (EN)

One of the Fujimi High School Students who had escaped and joined Shidou's group. She helped Shidou enter the Takagi compound using her sex appeal.

* DistractedByTheSexy: Shidou and his group are able to enter the Takagi compound by using Yuuki's ample bust size to distract the guards.
* ReallyGetsAround: There was apparently some, "interesting rumors" about her at school...

[[folder:Misuzu Ichijou]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Naoko Seto (JP), Melissa Davis (EN)

Toshimi's BFF, whose [[DirtyCoward cowardice]] ends up getting them both killed.
----
* CharacterDeath: At least in the anime; in the manga, she simply gets turned.
* DeathByAdaptation: In the anime, she doesn't make any further appearances after she and Toshimi get killed, so the viewer is left to assume that the zombies [[OffWithHerHead crushed her head]] instead of simply turning her.
* DeathByIrony: A rather humorous one at that.
* DeathByPragmatism: She tried to save herself by throwing Toshimi under the bus. Les than a minute later, she was either dead (anime) or turned (manga).
* DirtyCoward: Her FatalFlaw, as all of the entries here tell us.
* FatalFlaw: Her cowardice.
* FamousLastWords: "Dammit, bitch, I said ''LET GO!''"
* HeelFaceDoorSlam: In the anime.
* KarmicDeath: Guess what happened after she kicked Toshimi down the stairs?
* OffWithHerHead: At least in the anime, where she doesn't make any further appearances afterwards; in the manga, she's shown to have "hooked up" with Morita in (un)death.
* RedShirt: She and Toshimi only seem to exist as examples of what not to do in a zombie apocalypse to last more than minutes; Misuzu in particular is a classic case of cowardice leading to a very bad end, to put it lightly.
* TooDumbToLive: She couldn't have picked a worse moment to be yellow in the face of danger.
* WrongGenreSavvy: Even she thought that if she and Toshimi stuck together, they'd make it through alive. Rather quickly, her cowardice gets the better of her as Toshimi gets snatched by the zombies, and [[RealityEnsues you probably know what happens to them next]].
[[/folder]]

[[folder:Toshimi Niki]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/KaoriShimizu (JP), Creator/LuciChristian (EN)

Misuzu's BFF, who loses her life when she's grabbed by a zombie mob on the stairs and dragged to her fate.
----
* CharacterDeath: Unlike Misuzu, she's confirmed to be dead.
* FamousLastWords: "Misuzu! Help me! Misuzu!"
* FanDisservice: The last thing seen from poor Toshimi in the anime is her lower body, with [[PantyShot her yellow panties on display]] as she's EatenAlive.
* RedShirt: She and Misuzu only seem to exist as examples of what not to do in a zombie apocalypse if you want to last more than minutes; Toshimi in particular is a classic case of hopeless idealism that's put down before she was onscreen for even one minute.
* TooDumbToLive: Sure, Misuzu being too yellow (not to mention too ''[[OurZombiesAreDifferent noisy]]'') to live didn't help matters, but Toshimi is the one who walked blindly into the clutches of the zombies.
* WrongGenreSavvy: She and Misuzu practically ''skip'' hand-in-hand away from the zombies chasing them, harping on about how [[ThePowerOfLove the power of their]] TwoGirlRomanticFriendship will carry them through the dark times ahead. Then poor Toshimi gets grabbed, and RealityEnsues...
[[/folder]]

[[folder:Takuzo]]
->'''Voiced by:''' Creator/NobuhikoOkamoto (JP), David Wald (EN)

A leader of his own survival party who briefly joins Takashi's group. His own group scatters after he dies, except for his girlfriend Naomi, who chooses to die with him.
----
* RedShirt: He dies in the same chapter he was introduced in, only minutes later, as he and his group were trying to get to the buses to escape.
* SixthRanger: Briefly to Takashi's group, but was killed soon after.
* TogetherInDeath: With his girlfriend, Naomi, who chose to die with him when she saw he no longer had the chance to escape.
* WeHardlyKnewYe: In the anime version, he dies before he even has a chance to reveal his name. The manga at least had Naomi call out to him.
[[/folder]]

* TheLastOfTheseIsNotLikeTheOthers: Seems to be the only adult female that [[WorldOfBuxom doesn't sport double D's in the whole series]].

* LustObject: Her age (27) hasn't stopped ''anyone'' from finding her sexually appealing. Takashi's friend, Imamura, said she was hot specifically ''because'' [[LikesOlderWomen she's an older woman.]] Takashi and Hirano have also been aroused by her and Shimada said she had a nice body, right before trying to rape her.

* FreudianExcuse: Make no mistake on what a slimy scumbag Shidou is, but his early life wasn't exactly grand despite being the son of a prominent politician. His parents would frequently argue, with his father revealed to have cheated on his mother, leading her to drink heavily and later die of alcohol poisoning. After becoming a teacher, he found out that his father secretly had another son with the woman who the man had cheated for, and losing his birth right of being the political successor to his father.

* TheSociopath: When it comes down to it, Shidou cares for no one but himself. Anyone who doesn't follow suit with his ideals, such as Yamada, is promptly gotten rid of. He curries favor with those with simple minds and base desires, like himself, which puts him at odds with strong-willed students, such as Takagi (who goes so far as to compare him to a certain religion/cult [[Administrivia/RuleOfCautiousEditingJudgment which shall not be named]] in the English dub) and Hirano, who see through his facade from the start.

* TheUnfavorite: Him choosing to be a teacher causes rift between him and his father. Not that their relationship is healthy to begin with.