Kouta Hirano  

, 平野コータ

A student named Kouta, who was frequently bullied at school, has a passion for guns and military equipment. He helped Saya Takagi escape danger in the beginning of the story by following her instructions. His marksmanship skills have been crucial in keeping everyone alive. During a one-month trip to America, he received training from Blackwater USA which further fueled his fascination with weapons. Despite having feelings for Saya, she has rejected him on multiple occasions when he tried to ask her out. Before leaving the Takagi family mansion, Saya's father entrusted her safety to Kouta and Takashi. According to Saya, both of them have a high likelihood of snapping if things continue in this manner. Kouta has become very attached to Alice, with whom he frequently plays and interacts. The character of Kouta Hirano from the manga series Highschool of the Dead was inspired by the famous mangaka Kouta Hirano, who is also known for creating "Hellsing".