Frieren: Serie's Apprentice

Year 22 Before the Sinseki Era

The [Continental Magic Association] held its first mage examination, with Serie herself serving as the chief examiner.



"Not qualified. Next."

"Mediocre. Rated as a Grade 5 Mage."

"Not qualified. Can’t even stand under my magical pressure? How pathetic."



...



After Serie eliminated several mages in a row, it was finally the turn of a boy named Gut to step forward.



Serie: Your magical capacity is decent. Wait... Are you thinking something while looking at me?



Gut: Uh... I think you’re really cute. May I hug you?



Serie: .......



Gut: Also... I noticed your magic is... wavering.



"Heh—"

A smile that couldn’t be hidden tugged at the corner of Serielle’s lips.



"You’ve passed. Become my disciple."

"Yes, Master."



...



The next day, Serie summoned Gut to her side. Pointing at a mountain-like pile of magic tomes behind her, she said:



"As a reward for becoming my disciple, name the one magic you desire most. I will grant it to you."



Gut: Master, I want [Curse Reversal Spell: Mistilziela].



Serie: Oh? Someone still knows of that mythic-era spell? Very well. I’ll bestow it to you via transfer magic...



Gut: Master, I don’t want to receive it that way.



Serielle: How dull. With a human’s lifespan, one couldn’t master it even in a lifetime.



Gut: Then let me spend my life by your side, Master.



Serielle: ....

Gut, you’re quite ambitious. I’ll likely remember you among my disciples.