Asami Nakaoka was a young police patrol officer assigned to the Tokonosu Higashi Police Station’s traffic department. During the outbreak, she was tasked with guarding a shopping mall and protecting the group of survivors taking shelter there until her superior, Officer Matsushima, returned with reinforcements. Despite her position, Asami struggled with self-doubt and lacked confidence in her ability to lead and maintain order. This was reflected in her tendency to speak in third-person, a habit derived from police protocol in Japan, though her informal phrasing indicated her inexperience.

Asami was deeply loyal to Officer Matsushima and committed to maintaining peace among the survivors in the mall, even as she privately grappled with feelings of inadequacy. Her optimistic demeanor in public contrasted with her internal fears about failing her duty as a police officer.

During the group’s stay at the mall, Asami grew close to Kohta Hirano, forming a deep affection for him. Over time, this affection developed into mutual romantic feelings, providing her with a sense of purpose and companionship amidst the chaos. Asami’s unwavering commitment to protecting others, combined with her growing bond with Kohta, solidified her role as a trusted and valued member of the group.

Asami is a petite young woman with short light brown hair, styled with bangs that sweep to the right side of her face, partially obscuring her right eye. She has striking blue eyes that complement her gentle features.

Her attire consists of the standard female police uniform of the Tokonosu Higashi Police Station, which includes a white shirt, a black tie, a blue jacket, and a blue skirt. She also wears a green armband on her left arm with two white stripes, signifying her role. Adding a personal touch to her otherwise formal appearance, Asami accessorizes with gold star-shaped earrings, reflecting a youthful and optimistic personality. At 19 years old, her appearance exudes both professionalism and a hint of vulnerability, fitting her role as a young officer thrust into a crisis.

Asami is outwardly optimistic and cheerful when interacting with the survivors in the mall, often trying to project confidence as a police officer despite her young age and limited experience. However, in private moments, she frequently doubts her abilities, shedding tears and questioning her capability to handle the heavy responsibilities placed upon her. This inner conflict highlights her vulnerability and desire to rise to the occasion, even as she struggles with feelings of inadequacy.

Her attempts to assert authority as a police officer often fall flat, as the survivors initially show little respect for her. However, after acquiring a Smith & Wesson Model 37, Asami begins to exude newfound confidence, enabling her to better enforce order within the mall. Her growing sense of self-assurance garners more respect from the group and allows her to take on a more decisive leadership role.

A key source of Asami’s optimism and determination stems from her belief in Officer Matsushima, her superior, whom she fully expects to return with help. This belief sustains her morale and resolve throughout much of her time in the mall. However, when she discovers that Matsushima has succumbed to the outbreak and become one of “them,” Asami’s spirit is shattered. Overcome with despair, she loses hope and becomes despondent, abandoning her earlier resolve to protect the survivors.

Asami Nakaoka’s primary weapon during her time in the mall is a Smith & Wesson Model 37 revolver. The acquisition of this firearm serves as a turning point for her character, as it provides her with the means to assert her authority and protect the survivors under her care. The revolver symbolizes her growing confidence and ability to fulfill her duties as a police officer, even in the dire circumstances of the zombie apocalypse.

In addition to the revolver, Asami makes use of her police training to adapt to the various combat situations she encounters, although her arsenal remains limited compared to other members of the group. Despite her lack of advanced weaponry, her resolve and resourcefulness enable her to contribute significantly to the group’s survival.

• Hiro Tamura (Out of Mercy/Before Reanimation)
  Hiro was a mall survivor who, after being grabbed by “them,” begged to be killed before turning. When Takashi Komuro hesitated, Asami took it upon herself to grant his request. After asking his name and assuring him he would never be forgotten, she shot him, sparing him from the fate of becoming one of “them.”

• Numerous Counts of “Them”
  Asami actively fought against “them” during her time at the mall and while accompanying Takashi’s group. Her firearm skills allowed her to eliminate numerous zombies, showcasing her growing resolve and determination to protect others despite her initial self-doubt.