The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess Volume 5 is still hilarious and engaging. The comedic beats never tire. But a new chapter is here as Commander Komari Gandesblood begins to accept she might not be as weak as she believes. The moments of nonconsensual touching lessened, to my relief, and there was more comedy and action. Readers also get a better understanding of the relationship between Komari and her lecherous maid, Villhaze. The harem antics do not stop, but The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess Volume 5 has a new enemy, a constant enemy, action and laughter.
Written by Kotei Kobayashi with illustrations by riichu and translation by Sergio Avila, the volume begins with Komari getting a much-needed break from the fraught demand of commanding the Seventh Unit. Or so she thought. The Yen Press light novel shows Komari’s relationship with her younger sister, Lolocco. Dear sis interrupts her quest for peace to manipulate Komari to do her homework. But moreso than Lolocco’s brief cameos, this volume focuses on Villhaze and Komari’s relationship.
Shut-In Vampire Princess Volume 5 Is Love or Stockholm Syndrome
Through each volume, Komari’s most frustrating partner is her maid, Vill. Whether Vill is imagining intimate scenarios, trying to touch her, or making her do her job, Komari cannot stand it. She prefers hibernating at home. So, Komari rarely has a kind word for her. Still, during those moments, when Komari activates her Core Implosion; it’s apparent she cares deeply for Vill.
This volume teaches Komari how much she takes Vill’s ability to help her navigate her day-to-day for granted. It also illuminates how entertaining life is with Vill at her side. Without Vill, she’s listless, more stressed, and unsure of herself. She’s even come to crave Vill’s touch, so whether she’s in love or a masochist is up in the air. So, her days of being an avid shut-in are officially behind her.
Religious Fervor Meets Religious Fervor
A lot of horrors stem from how people interpret and manipulate religious scriptures. Often it is to gain power. Why should a fictional world with beastfolk, warriors, and vampires be any different? Komari beat Inverse Moon opponents in previous volumes. But this network of people are vast and determined. They are dead set on destroying the Dark Cores to erase people’s ability to resurrect. They make another appearance this volume as readers learn more about the head of this group. Enter the Holy Church, which wants to bless everyone with their faith.
Of course, for violent people it’s another story. So for the notorious Komari, the Seventh Unit, and the entirety of the Mulnite Empire, that means death. Not to mention, Komari unknowingly insulted their Pope, Spica La Gemini. Religious zealotry plays a part. But Komari’s character doesn’t disappoint; she remains the entertaining constant. The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess Volume 5 maintains the best of what the series offers.
Well-Paced and Prior Characters Make an Appearance
I love stories where someone a protagonist saves returns to return the favor. Think Naruto and Gaara for reference. It brings faith in humanity. So, seeing all the previous characters, Komari helped send an inspirational message to readers and Komari. Despite her feelings that she’s a subpar vampire, she changed lives.
Sometimes, in moments of doubt, the best a person can do is draw from those who see them unencumbered by years of insecurities. Faith in religion often leads to harm as people twist that belief, but faith in oneself and those who believe in you can bring out your best. The overall message, battles with Core Implosion, laughter, and ever-unfolding mysteries of the Dark Core make The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess Volume 5 a dynamite read.