Kingdom of Z (Volume 5) - United Against Zombies... or Not?

Miki’s prediction was right. Those three groups now controlled the S-Prefecture and were busily making it safe, however, their strength had not gone unnoticed by outside groups who were worried about war breaking out!

Kingdom of Z (Volume 5) – United Against Zombies… or Not?

What happened?

The leaders of the Quartet, the Zombie Scientists, and Kantou Shinsengumi met to discuss the plans for the future. The roads were coming along nicely, although the materials that had been used to secure them were weak. Zombies were breaking through on regular occasions which meant the Kantou Shinsengumi had to patrol them and clean up any messes. Their leader wanted them to take the JSDF base which would give them the weapons to protect their territory. However, the JSDF zombies shot down a drone that Satou was using to inspect things. Zombies with guns!

The leader of the Zombie Scientists had a solution. They have developed a design for a new wall with which they could secure the roads permanently and since they have now acquired a concrete factory, they could begin production. That would allow the Kantou Shinsengumi to assist the Quartet in taking care of the JSDF zombies. Of course, this all went as Miki had expected. She had Saruwatari continue his role as the leader of the quartet, although he reported to her. She had also made an alliance with Kurusaki of the Zombie Scientists. Effectively, Miki got what she wanted, when she wanted it, and how she wanted it.

Kurusaki asked for Miki, Karin, Satou, and Ritsuka to come in for some repeat testing. Of course, that was just a screen to allow them to talk with raising Sarywatari’s suspicions. Kurusaki had some information she needed to discuss with Miki. The results of the bloodwork she had done on them indicated that Ritsuka and Karin were both infected with the zombie virus. That was likely how they were able to control zombies or have enhanced strength and senses. Did that mean they would turn into full zombies? Kurusaki didn’t know, but she doubted it. For now, she wanted them to investigate a zombie that had been taking photos of the university…

Kingdom of Z Volume 5 The group leaders meeting

Kingdom of Z Volume 5 Kurusaki Nii reveals that Karin ant Ritsuka are infected

What did you think?

This was a very slow volume with lots of talking and plotting. It was fascinating, but definitely a lot slower than the previous volumes. That’s a concern given that the next volume is the last one. I don’t think there’s going to be a definitive conclusion to this story unless something terrible happens. I hope that is not the case. I am enjoying the rebuilding side of things in this story, especially how Miki is in total control, however, it’s going to be among my favourite zombie stories. I like the ones that focus on the fall of society and the initial survival moments. This series skipped most of that and then went straight into the rebuild phase.

The idea that the JSDF zombies are all armed and continue to use their guns with a considerable degree of accuracy makes them a terrifying prospect. Admittedly, they should be able to control them with Ritsuka, however, there is very little room for error. The slightest hesitation and someone could get shot. I get the feeling Miki has a plan that will give her even more power so that should be interesting. Of course, this rival group is going to make things interesting, unless the easy-going leader gets a bit of control over his ambitious number two.