With one book left in the Zero series, I can honestly say I'm glad. It just doesn't hold up against the original. In a 450 page book you'd think more of merit would happen. Well there is only one more in each series to go. Shirakome-sensei suggests reading Zero vol 6 before finishing the mainline. Considering Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest: Volume 12 barely came out digitally a few weeks ago... I'm just waiting for which ever one arrives next.
Hitting it's stride a little with this one I think. I can't help but be disappointed whenever I read one of the Zero books as so many characters are just weak copies of characters from the main Arifureta series. Given the fact that this series doesn't have the zany harem theme from the main Arifureta series, the fact that the entire series doesn't seem to pass the Bechdel test is even more jarring. Still a fun over-the-top light fantasy read.
The build up to this moment is at great pace. Oscars obsession makes this even better. The bonds that are achieved make for a great story. Trying to rate this book without giving things away was the most difficult thing for me to do. You will enjoy it.