Exciting news for fantasy anime lovers! NBC Universal has announced that The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects (Ryōmin 0-nin Start no Henkyō Ryōshu-sama), the popular light novel series by Fuurou, is officially being adapted into a television anime. A promotional video was released this weekend, offering a first look at the anime version of this heartwarming and quietly ambitious “slow-life fantasy” series.
The story follows Dias, a battle-hardened soldier who returns from decades of war only to be granted a domain that turns out to be nothing more than endless plains with zero inhabitants. Left confused and directionless, Dias must now figure out how to turn this deserted land into something meaningful. That is, until he meets a mysterious horned girl named Alna, who slowly begins to change his view of the empty frontier.
Talented Team Brings the Story to Life
The anime is in capable hands. Kenichi Imaizumi, known for directing Kingdom seasons 3 to 6, is taking the director’s chair at Studio42. Series composition is handled by Kunihiko Okada, who has worked on titles like The Demon Sword Master of Excalibur Academy and Apocalypse Bringer Mynoghra. Character design will be led by Keiichi Tsuboyama, who was the animation director for Fireworks, Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?.
This adaptation builds on a solid foundation. Fuurou originally published the story on the Shōsetsuka ni Narō website in 2018. The Earth Star Novel imprint publishes the series in print with illustrations by Kinta. Yumbo, who also contributes to the anime production, draws the manga adaptation, which currently spans 13 volumes. Combined, the franchise has more than two million copies in circulation—a clear signal of its popularity.
What Makes This Fantasy Different?
Unlike many high-stakes fantasy series, The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects opts for a more thoughtful, character-driven approach. It’s about rebuilding, starting over, and finding peace in unexpected places. Dias is not a chosen one with godlike powers. He’s tired, humble, and trying to do right by his new land. Alna’s presence adds a layer of mystery, charm, and quiet magic that hints at the plains holding more than meets the eye.
J-Novel Club publishes both the novel and manga in English, giving international fans a chance to follow along before the anime premieres. With a skilled team and a unique premise, this adaptation promises to deliver a refreshing take on fantasy storytelling that’s perfect for fans of world-building and emotional growth arcs.
To commemorate the announcement, illustrators Kinta and Yumbo released celebratory artwork that has already made waves across Japanese social media and anime news sites.
