In Vexia, a border region of the Demi-Human Empire, preparations for war were underway. Although the tension of an impending battle with the demons lingered in the air, the army's commander seemed unusually cheerful. While everyone expected an elderly general, the real commander turned out to be a child—a sweet girl named Usami. Her outfit was adorned in shades of pink, and being of the rabbit race, she radiated boundless energy. The leader of Vexia watched her with a smile, clearly entertained.
Lila: "What an energetic girl. Just like her father."
Usami: "Aaaah! What brings you here, Commander Lila?"
Lila: "And what brings a little commander like you to the battlefield?"
Usami: "Did you forget I'm one of our country's top commanders?"
Lila: "How could I ever forget? Hahaha. So, you'll be fighting an unplanned battle today."
Usami: "That much I know! Don't worry, I'll kick all their butts! Hehehe!"
She truly has immense potential. If I had to face her in battle, I'd likely be dead already. Why does our Lord use someone this powerful merely for gathering intelligence?
Usami: "What are you thinking about now, Commander Lila?"
Lila: "You're such a sweet girl... My thoughts just wandered to you."
Usami: "You're making me blush... Aren't I the cutest?"
Usami looked up at her with a charming smile, which made Lila smile back—though she turned away shortly after, unable to hold back her tears. Usami, confused, stared at her with a puzzled expression.
Usami: "What's wrong, Commander Lila? Did I say something bad?"
Lila: "Tell me, Usami... What do you think about this war?"
Lila didn't turn around as she asked. Usami, momentarily at a loss, touched her hair, then answered with a clueless face.
Usami: "I guess I don't really think much... We're going to win, aren't we?"
Lila: "And what if we don't? What if we lose you too, just like that fool Uvogi?"
Usami: "You worry too much, Commander Lila. I'm A-rank—I'm not going to lose."
This girl really does exude confidence. The first attack starts tomorrow. I pray she returns safely. I'll be waiting for your return, Usami.
Usami: "Forget all that. Let's go out! I found a new restaurant—it's amazing!"
Grabbing Lila's hand and pulling her up, Usami led her to a cozy little restaurant. The wooden tables and the hearty dish called Futon gave it a humble charm. It was made of pork and noodles—mildly spicy and commonly eaten by soldiers during training.
Lila: "We're having Futon, Usami?"
Usami: "You got it! It's supposed to be good luck before a battle!"
Lila: "Can you handle it? I've heard Futon can be really spicy."
Usami: "Don't worry, I've got this."
While waiting for their food, they chatted. Usami played with her ears while Lila shared stories from the past.
Lila: "Long ago, before you came around, I had a friend—his name was Bellion. Long hair, rugged face, came from the wolves... His claws were like blades. Around 19 years ago, I think, we were fighting the Tafavu Empire when he caused a bit of trouble."
Usami: "What kind of trouble?"
Lila: "As I was attacking to kill an enemy, he brought one of them to me alive. I told him not to, but he wouldn't listen. The girl was beautiful... but she'd been tortured by the enemy."
Usami: "Ugh, filthy Tafavu Empire, as always."
Lila: "I gave her basic first aid. She looked at me and smiled. Months later, I was promoted and became Vexia's leader. When she asked to work with us, our Lord took her in and promised to protect her."
Usami: "Wow… That's actually a beautiful story, Commander Lila."
Lila: "Anyway, finish your food. Sleep well tonight and bring us victory tomorrow."
Usami: "Yes, ma'am!"
I believe in you, Usami. You can do this. Win the war—and raise your family to greatness!
After finishing their meal, they paid the bill and stood. As they reached the door, Lila embraced Usami one last time. Usami returned the hug with a happy smile. Lila, on her way back to her castle, seemed a little uneasy. Meanwhile, Usami marched to her army, full of cheer.
Lalala lala lala... Today was the first time I spent the day with Commander Lila. It was the best day ever. I wonder how big tomorrow's battle will be? I hope my army listens to me.
Waving her hand as she walked, Usami brought smiles to the soldiers' faces. She greeted them, and they saluted her in return. Upon entering the military camp, her presence immediately straightened everyone's posture. Heading straight into her tent, she took a seat on her command throne.
This throne really doesn't feel right… but I guess commanders have to sit here. How many lives will I take tomorrow? Even if they're demons… they must have families too, right?
If I come face-to-face with Guter, the border commander… what should I do? I'm just A-rank. If he comes personally, I might lose. During training, Her Majesty taught me—she's so strong, even if I use all my power, she could beat me with just a touch.
Soldier: "Commander, the army is nearly ready. We can march at your command in the morning."
Usami: "Isn't morning too boring? Tell the army to move now—we fight tonight."
Soldier: "But it's nightfall. Our mages won't be able to hit their targets."
Usami: "You really think the enemy will notice all of us, B-rank commander?"
Soldier: "...You're right. I'll ready the troops. We move out shortly."
This is better. I'll need a dirty fight against an unknown enemy. My illustration magic works best this way. I'll kill them all in their own fortress.
Giggling to herself, Usami looked forward to the coming battle. Unable to stay still, she left the throne and stepped outside to see her troops. As she gave the order to advance, the gates opened, and the mighty army of the Demi-Human Empire began to march.
After around seven hours, the army crossed into enemy territory and began to see torches in the distance. The vanguard returned with a report.
Scout: "Commander, the Demi-Human Empire has officially crossed the border. War has begun."
Beril: "Expected. Meeting them at our fortress would be foolish. We can't fire down from the walls—just makes us sitting targets."
Scout: "As ordered, thirty thousand C-rank demons and a thousand B-ranks are moving forward."
Beril: "Any sign of a commander? A strong mana presence?"
Scout: "A massive mana signature detected in the rear. Likely an A-rank commander."
Beril: "Jumping into battle without knowing their combat style could get me killed. I'll regroup with the army and form a second line of defense."
Mounting her horse, Beril hurried to join the main force. Usami's army was approaching quickly. As soon as they were spotted, harassment fire began. Though both sides launched preemptive attacks, the frontlines had already begun clashing.
Usami: "Look at that demon army. Such numbers... It's time to show them despair."
Soldier: "Commander, are you heading to the front?"
Usami: "Yes. There are too many strong demons there. I have to stop them."
Soldier: "Then allow us to come protect you!"
Usami: "You'll die. A powerful commander's mana is overwhelming the field. I can feel the fun already."
Without a mount, Usami sprinted toward the frontlines. With her summoned paintbrush, she began slaying enemies—drawing illustrations upon them and then exploding their heads. As she waded deeper into the battlefield, she began to enjoy the chaos.
Usami: "Die by my painting, demons! And be the inspiration for my next one!"
???: "Are you enjoying killing, little rabbit?"
Usami: "Are you strong? Can you stop me?"
???: "I'm the commander of this unit. Our Viscount can stop you without even leaving his seat, just by using us."
Usami: "Heeeeh? Doesn't that make him a coward, bro?"
???: "You must be a member of the Heaven's Killers. I can tell from the mark on your leg."
Usami: "Yeah, I'm part of the team. But I just joined, so I haven't developed much yet."
???: "Enough talk! You'll go no further! Wooden Bow, Plant Magic!"
The commander infused his mana into a bow made of wood, then created arrows with the same energy. As Usami dodged the arrows, she was simultaneously drawing.
Usami (thinking): "So the bow is powered by mana for speed, allowing the arrows to fly straight without touching the air. Not a bad spell… but I haven't played my real card yet."
As she completed her sketch, Usami tossed the paper into the air, activating her magic. From the drawing, stones materialized and began raining down on the commander.
Usami: "What do you think of my magic?"
???: "Not bad. But I can shoot them all down! Branch Extension, Plant Magic!"
This time, the arrows grew as they flew, multiplying and splitting into more projectiles—up to 20 from a single shot. He could fire four per second. It was a high-tier B-rank technique, clearly enhanced beyond the norm.
???: "Your stones are useless! Send them all—I'll destroy every last one!"
Usami: "You're boring, bro. Anyway, my target is your commander."
Usami began sketching again—this time, a dagger. Though the enemy kept his distance, her small stature helped her evade the arrows. Using fallen enemies as shields, she closed the gap. The enemy dropped his bow and pulled out his sword for close combat.
???: "If I can't maintain distance, she'll stab me. Does she really think she can beat me with that tiny body?"
Usami: "You're going to die soon. Got any last words?"
???: "A child like you is going to kill me? Hahahaha. Don't joke around, brat, there's no wa—"
Usami: "Sorry, but I need to move on and fight someone stronger."
Without hesitation, Usami plunged her dagger into the commander's heart. Killing him, she advanced quickly through the battlefield, slaying any who blocked her way. Waiting ahead was the true enemy commander—Beril—who had dismounted to confront her.
Beril: "Stop right there... Wait a second—you're a child?!"
Usami: "You can call me a child, but I've lived 23 years, demon."
Beril: "So you've already killed my sub-commanders… Impressive. I should congratulate you. But this is where your path ends."
Usami: "So you're the strongest one here. Perfect!"
Usami dropped onto all fours like a real rabbit, her ears perked, eyes fixed on the towering figure before her. Beril's sky-blue coat, massive white horns, and sharp red spear gave him a terrifying presence. But the little rabbit wasn't scared.
Instead, Usami used her magic to summon a blank sheet of white paper. She began to draw again—this time, a bear. Once finished, a thick white mist enveloped the battlefield, and a five-meter-tall bear emerged with a deafening roar.
Two great commanders now stood face to face. The battle that would define the borders was about to begin.