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Chapter Text

Wisps of steam rose from the cup of tea on the desk in a lavish office, the occupant standing behind the desk with his face to the window, observing the magical city of Äußerst with quiet contentment. His dark hair short and clean-shaven, he cut an impressive figure, something that would have sent any woman’s heart a-flutter. At least, that is what Sense tells herself as she enters the office, her heart sent into quite the state, especially when he turns to look at her, “Sense, I am always pleased to partake in your company, but you usually don’t look so perturbed. Did Mistress Serie test your patience?”

Sense’s face flushed slightly, of course his first concern was her, it always has been and seems to always will be, “No, nothing so dramatic, Regen.” she replied, carefully controlling her voice to let none of her inner turmoil out, “Merely concerned about the next series of Exams.”

Regen sighed, knowing exactly what she would be referring to, “Genau’s exams always leave much to be desired, that much I will admit.” he replied, taking his seat and cup into his hand, “But it always gets approved because Mistress Serie does not wish for the unworthy to be considered for the Second Stage.”

Sense frowned, knowing full well Regen’s own issues with the examinations put forth by their colleague, to say nothing of the issues with the mage himself. It was a small part of why her own examinations were structured as they were. “But, we have half a year before the Exam,” he finally said, peering into his tea cup as if it held long forgotten wisdom, “We can only hope that my juncture will find our Mistress in good humours.”

Sense shut her eyes, “You know that will never happen, much for the very reason you already stated.” she replied, “Though I find it strange: You have been a First-Class Mage as long as I, and yet, you have never once been asked to or allowed to proctor one Exam.”

Regen smiled, “Because I run so counter to her personality. You didn’t, not at first.”

Despite his tone being that of soft praise at her ability to change, Sense could not help the subtle flinch at that pronouncement. She hadn’t been that different to Mistress Serie, not until after a year of killing, almost non-stop, and using her reward more than she had ever expected to for her entire life. Sometimes she could still smell the smoke, the blood, hear the screams. She was so caught up in her memories that she didn’t realise that he had set down his tea and crossed the room to her until he wrapped her in a warm embrace, one she readily returned. They stayed like that for a while before, eventually, Regen pulled back ever so slightly, “My duties are done for the day, if you’d like to stay a while, or longer,” he whispered, question in the air, unvoiced, perhaps even unknown to him.

Sense’s lips twitched; honestly, everyone at the Äußerst location either knew, in the case of Lernen, or suspected, in the case of everyone else, that Sense’s relationship with Regen might be more than professional. Though thankfully, none make comments about it if they do know, especially in Regen’s presence. “Careful, Regen, or you might be accused of spoiling me.”

Regen had a smirk running on full blast when he pulled back in full, “Spoiling my best friend? I am guilty as charged. What punishment is there for such a crime?”

Friend.

The word hit against Sense’s heart harder than a well-aimed boulder from a trebuchet, though she did not let it visibly affect her. Friend was all he could see her as, and Friend would have to be the best she got, despite the candle she held for him raging like an uncontrollable wildfire. But, outwardly, she maintained the back and forth they always got into, “Your punishment?” she mused as she followed him into his attached quarters, “I do believe you should be punished most severely. You are sentenced to brush my hair,” she threw back.

Regen chuckled, “If that is the severe punishment for the crime, I might have to commit the crime more often,” he replied, gesturing grandly to a stool in front of a mirrored vanity and bowing. “Your stylist awaits any special instruction, Milady.”

Sense chose not to say anything, merely smiling and sitting on the offered stool. While Regen worked meticulously with her hair, she could, as she often did, imagine this scene happening every night. Sometimes, if her imagination was feeling particularly inventive, she would then imagine him leading her to bed and instead of taking the couch or the spare bedroom, that he wouldn’t let go and would pull himself close to her. Sure, that may be where her fantasies end, due to the most intimacy she ever experienced being Regen doing everything within his power to keep her warm when they first made their trip to Äußerst all those years ago, but she was not a naive girl; she knew what she desired from him. And despite all of her logic and practical knowledge, there was some part of her which wondered: Would Regen really be brushing her hair whenever she asked him if there wasn’t something more?

The morning brought a crick to his neck and a general sense of concern when he saw Sense curled into such a tight ball in his bed, but there was a small, contented smile on his face that could not be denied. A small part of him, no, actually, scratch that, a large part of him wanted nothing more than to pull back the covers slightly so he could hold her close as she slept. But, he supposed, that was the part of him that had always loved her, ever since they were children growing up in the south. Back then, he supposed, they both may have played at being Frieren the Slayer whenever the other children roped them into playing Heroes with them, but, if the rumours were true, then he was more like Himmel the Hopeless with her, and she was Frieren the Beauty.

Though right now, she was more like Frieren the Sleepy. Her hair, naturally, or perhaps she was using her mana to manipulate it in her sleep, covered her eyes to protect her from the harsh sunlight that spilt in through the windows. And despite Regen’s own desires to let her rest, he gently walked over and shook her, “Time to wake, sleepyhead,” he whispered.

Sense moaned, it may well be closer to midday than midnight, but she wanted to stay here forever; it was the closest she ever got to her dreams. But she betrayed herself and forced herself to wake and start on the day.

In her grogginess, however, she did not notice the face that Regen made: almost mournful in a way, as if something was causing him regret. If their friend Lernen or even if Serie had seen the two of them, they might have said something. Be it that people closest to a matter are often the blindest, in Lernen’s case, or that Frieren is not the only one who can be incredibly obtuse when it comes to romance in Serie’s. There was a reason that rumours persisted, though not all of them made their way to Sense’s ears. Those that did were often the tame ones; stolen kisses, hugs that went on for longer than was normally socially acceptable for friends, or the fact that Regen did spoil Sense. What failed to reach Serie’s Secretary’s ears, however, were stories, regardless of how fabricated they were or how there was no evidence to support them, about secret rendezvous in the gardens, hiding from Serie’s supposed disapproval, or the unusual pattern of sleeping habits and arrangements of the soft-spoken pair.

And yet, the wheels of time stop for no one. And they would find that they would have to confront themselves. Far sooner than they would have liked.

Notes on the running of the Äußerst Facility.

Transcripts of a letter from First-Class Mage Lernen to High Mage Serie and her reply, Early Spring, 29 years after the Death of Himmel the Hero and 79 since the Defeat of the Demon King.

Mistress,

Preparations proceed apace for this year’s First-Class Mage Examination. The townsfolk prepare with their usual restrained enthusiasm for the event, only really looking forward to the coin that will no doubt fill their purses by its conclusion. To that end, I have noticed that one of the Shopkeepers, a man by the name of Richter, who owns the repair shop here, has put in an application for the test and was wondering if you had any special instructions regarding his entry.

Our little side-project, on the other hand, proceeds frustratingly slowly. I observed no fewer than 37 separate occasions where the targets engaged in behaviour befitting a pair well into their courtship. That was throughout yesterday morning alone, I might add. The first real day after the Lady’s return to Äußerst. I am just about at my wits’ end with them and beg for permission to lock them in a room until they come to terms with each other.

Respectfully Yours (and somehow still sane)

Lernen

Lernen,

I suspect as much concerning the townsfolk, though it is of no matter. Both the Association and the town prosper thanks to the exams. Regarding Richter… I would appreciate it if he could be talked out of it. Genau’s Exam will involve them capturing Stilles in the forests near the small lake, and I would not appreciate it if the best repair and oddities shop in Äußerst were to close because its owner died. However, if his heart is set, let him take the exam; we will just have to pray that he either succeeds or, at the very least, fails in such a way that he is not mortally wounded or killed. Though if he can pass Genau’s test, then he should have no problems passing the remaining ones.

In regard to our side-project… permission denied. Though I only deny it because I am not there personally to oversee the locking of them together, as I am sure that Regen can pick his way out of anywhere, and I desire to see them come to terms personally, should intervention be required on our behalf. And because I can feel your gaze even as I write this, I would only tell them “About time” about once every week for the next hundred years. Even you have to admit that would be incredibly restrained on my part. And 37 times just that morning? Lernen, did you at least finish breakfast before writing that letter, or did you leave partway through?

Regardless, should the situation not be resolved by the completion of this year’s examinations, you have permission to send for me. I have no intention of seeing the same despair on my most promising apprentices that I see every time that I imagine seeing Frieren, especially if some of the books written on the “Heroes’ Party” are closer to truth than fiction. How she just disappeared for fifty years is cold, even coming from a fellow Elf. I feel bad for poor Himmel the Hero. And I suspect that everyone, even they, will be glad of it when they finally start courting.

It must be driving you and the others mad. But they have, at most, six months to sort it out themselves, then your torture will be over.

As Always

Serie

Chapter Text

Regen was never surprised when he returned to his office after instructing a class or tutoring and found someone sitting in one of the chairs that guests would normally occupy. All the important stuff was locked securely in his personal quarters, so he never saw the need to lock his office. However, usually the mage in those chairs was a student, asking for advice on some spell or technique. Today was the first time that Lernen of all mages sat in one of his chairs. “I hope I haven’t kept you waiting for long, Lernen,” he remarked, shutting the door behind him.

Lernen waved him off, “I knew you were in class and didn’t want to interrupt. I, therefore, concluded that you would return to your office soon enough,” he replied, accepting the cup of tea that Regen made. “I wanted to hear your opinions on a few matters. Four, in fact.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, while Lernen wasn’t as prickly as most of the other First-Class Mages, he was still considered the most experienced and wise member of that grouping. For him to be asking for opinions… “I’m all ears,” he said, drawing himself a cuppa.

Lernen’s lips twitched, his own suspicions being that once he said something on one of the matters, Regen would shut down any further conversation, so left that to last, choosing to lead with something relatively benign, “Genau’s Exam is to capture Stille in the Forest Arena. What do you think about it?” he asked.

Regen shut his eyes, of course he would make that the first exam. “It’s a bloodbath for the sake of a bloodbath,” he finally replied, “Genau hasn’t gone out in the field for as long as I’ve been a First-Class Mage, so I would guess that he needs to sate his bloodlust somehow.”

Lernen raised an eyebrow, almost word for word Sense’s own objections. And these two continue to pretend there is nothing between them. Aloud, he merely remarked: “And why do you believe it will become a bloodbath?”

Regen snorted, “The moment one team captures a Stille, they’ve become a target for those who are not as cunning.” he replied before looking Lernen in the eyes, a hard look born of hardships, “And when one has something that is highly valued by another, the only diplomacy involved tends to be Magic, Fists and Blades. The Sisters will be hard pressed, I foresee.”

Lernen frowned at that, the ancient Southern belief that the Goddess employed the female family of recently departed to escort them to Aureole was not the thing he took issue with, it was the idea that there would be a great need for such services. “What stings me, however.” Regen continued, “Is that alternative tests wouldn’t be considered. I only made First-Class because of your grace, I’m sure Mistress Serie gave you an earful.”

Lernen twitched slightly, memory clear as if it had been the other day. Regen wasn’t wrong. The argument between him and his Mistress had been fierce, though she eventually came around. Shaking his head, Lernen pressed on with his questions, “From my understanding, Sense intends to have the Second Test take place in the Ruins of the King’s Tomb,” he remarked.

Regen rubbed his chin. It was a sound idea and would be able to get cleared by Serie. “Going from a test designed to remove “unworthy mages” by way of death to a test that is designed around working together would be a leap for many mages.” he remarked before sighing, “Though I suppose that Mistress Serie would say that any First-Class Mage would be able to make that leap.”

Lernen raised an eyebrow, “Even with the Spiegel?” he asked.

Regen waved him off, “If they understand what they are facing, no amount of clones will be enough to stop them,” he remarked before chuckling, “It would only get worrisome should someone like Frieren the Slayer make an appearance.”

Somewhere, in a village off the Rohr’s Road, an Elf sneezes and waves off her Priest. Back with Lernen and Regen, they continue sipping their tea, and Lernen asks another question, “What do you think about Mister Richter’s application?”

Regen raised an eyebrow, “Richter applied? Good for him, though I hope he’s truly ready, I’d hate to lose the best shop for trinkets this side of the mountains.” he remarked before thinking a moment, “Speaking of… I need to stop by his shop today. I need to get… something.” he said, a slight flush on his face.

Lernen pretended not to notice, though he had a suspicion that he was going for a birthday gift for Sense. Something he needed to do as well, preferably before the week was out, so he had time to wrap it for her birthday on Tuesday. Though if Lernen was perfectly honest with himself, he believed that if Regen presented himself, in the buff, on Sense’s birthday to her, she’d be content and would hold that birthday as the best of all time. He didn’t say anything though. Just proceeding with his final question, “Should I get a substitute for your classes on Tuesday?” he asked.

Regen raised an eyebrow archly at him, his tone cold as ice, though Lernen doubted that the lad realised it, “Why would I need a substitute?” he asked.

Lernen shrugged nonchalantly, as if the man sitting across from him couldn’t kill him before he could blink, “Just a thought. I wasn’t sure if you had something special planned for Sense’s birthday. You only turn 30 once, and you two are the only First-Class Mages who can stand each other, let alone work together.”

And just like that, abashed and thoughtful Regen returned, and Lernen thought he hadn’t, but then Regen spoke, “Not until after classes. I intend to take her to the Bell for dinner.”

Lernen blinked. To Regen, his confusion seemed natural; it was devilishly expensive. After all, a First-Class Mage who mostly just taught classes at Äußerst made less than most would expect. But Lernen’s confused look wasn’t actually confusion: it was stunned silence. Could it be? The man thought. Could they finally be about to confront their emotions head-on? Aloud, he merely nodded along, “It’s a nice place, good food too.”

Regen smiled and nodded, that was what everyone he asked about the place said. He was so caught up in his thoughts that he didn’t notice Lernen leaving until a while later, when he realised that he was all alone. Though he was not alone for long as Sense soon walked in, much as she had a few weeks ago. “Is everything alright?” she asked, “Now it is you who looks perturbed.”

Regen smirked as he poured a cup for both of them, “Conversation with Lernen. Discussing the exams that had already been decided on,” he replied before nodding to her, “Good choice, by the way.”

Sense flushed ever so slightly. Sometimes she wondered if he knew just how he affected her and if he got some sort of amusement out of it. She quickly discarded that idea, however. He never purposely made her uncomfortable or teased her, and whenever he unintentionally did so, it was always followed up with sincere apologies and the most over-the-top methods of making things up or right. There was one time that he brushed her hair thrice a day for a year because he accidentally stepped on it. No, with him, he always ensured she was never uncomfortable, even taking the slightest hint on the matter. “If we have any real First-Class Mages, they should make it through just fine,” she eventually said.

Regen sighed, “The only reason it hasn’t been cleared out yet is because, as Lernen actually said to me today, we’re the only First-Class Mages who can stand each other, much less work together,” he mused. Then he shook his head, “We may yet be a few months away from the exams, but I am curious,” he began, drawing her gaze, though he always had her attention, “Would you like me to accompany you in observing either of the tests?”

Sense considered it. For about half a second. She appeared to consider it for much longer, but her mind was already made up, perhaps it was made before he even finished speaking, who can say. “I’d like that,” she simply said.

Unbeknownst to her, Regen’s stomach did flips when she worded it like that. But he carried on as if he wasn’t doing a little happy jig in his mind, “Then I’ll make sure you are not bored, at the very least, during Genau’s test.” he replied before seemingly being struck with a thought, “Before I forget, I have a reservation at the Bell on Tuesday, after classes.”

Sense blinked at him blankly, and Regen furrowed his brow, “Please tell me you’ve not forgotten your own Birthday?” he questioned.

At Sense’s eyes widening, he knew that she had, in fact, forgotten her own birthday. “Sense…” he groaned, rubbing his eyes. It wasn’t the first time she forgot, and he doubted it would be the last. She turned a deep red when she heard his exasperation though. It was never a pleasant sound to her ears. Eventually, though, he stood up and held out his arm, “Join me for a walk through the gardens? I could use the air.”

Which usually meant that classes had been rough, which led Sense to accept it and join him. They never could beat the rumours, not even the ones she knew about.

Notes on the running of the Äußerst Facility:

Entry from the Journal of First-Class Mage Lernen, Mid-Spring, 29 years after the Death of Himmel the Hero, three months to the First-Class Mage Exams.

These two are going to drive the last vestiges of my silver hair from my head at this rate. Tuesday last was the Lady Sense’s Birthday, and whilst I and Mistress Serie gave her practical, though meaningful gifts (I gave her a cloak she had been looking at for months and Mistress Serie gave her a Comb that was imbued with magic in some way, I didn’t ask), Regen pulled out all the stops apparently, giving his gift at their dinner at the Bell. From what I could tell, it was a necklace with an emerald stone for its centrepiece, in addition to the dinner, which, if their faces were anything to go off of, was incredibly satisfying.

AND YET THEY ARE STILL NOT COURTING!

Mistress Serie was confused in the letter I sent the next morning, explaining what they got up to and the conclusion of it. She, and I, are beginning to wonder about their home life before they arrived at Äußerst, if they had been shown a modicum of affection between spouses or if they have no concept of what they have. I am starting to lean towards the latter, though Mistress is stubborn in her belief that they are just being obtuse. Though… Considering that they both became First-Class Mages fifteen years ago, and they are similar in age, perhaps that goes some way in explaining things.

Regardless, it is not much longer now. In less than three months, they’ll sort it out, with or without our intervention.

Chapter Text

Regen strolled through the botanical gardens with his class behind him, “… You never know which plants you may stumble on. Most have some use, so never discount what you pass by. It may save your life,” he said before turning and seeing a head of blonde hair coming their way. “That will be all for today. Class dismissed!”

A soft chuckle escaped his lips as the students all made quick getaways. His lectures weren’t boring or anything, it’s just that many mages were soon to be arriving for the First-Class Exams that would start in a week and a half, so many wanted to see who would be arriving. His attention, on the other hand, was on the approaching Sense, “Impromptu hands-on lesson,” he remarked, already knowing she would ask.

Sense’s lips quirked into a smile, “I thought I saw you leading them through the halls,” she mused before coming beside him and joining him in a walk through the garden, their similar clothes fluttering with each step.

They said very little as they walked, though they did, eventually, link arms. Regen was far too much of a gentleman to leave her unescorted. Though it only felt like minutes, they meandered for hours, eventually coming to a collection of Lotus Flowers. Regen knew that she loved the Lotuses, so they stood there a moment before he leant over and plucked one from the garden. Sense merely thought that he was going to give it to her, which she was not opposed to, but she was surprised when instead of handing it to her, he wove it into her hair, just behind her ear. “A beautiful flower, for a beautiful woman,” he whispered.

Sense was quite certain that the heat she suddenly felt was not caused by his breath, nor was the chill she felt rush down her spine from the temperature. It would have been so easy too; his lips were right by her ear. She could have quickly turned her head to the side and brought an assault upon his lips the likes of which she could not imagine. But perhaps it was because she couldn’t imagine it that she did not act. Merely going along as they continued their walk.

Those they passed as they walked complimented Sense’s accessory, and this was not merely confined to the students or the gardens. As they sat in the staff canteen, several of their colleagues complimented her; it was becoming slightly distracting to eat since she stopped every bite to thank someone. Eventually, though, Lernen joined them, which drove away some of the mages. Though he had his own comments, “I take it you visited Regen after his class was finished in the Botanical Gardens, Sense?”

Sense hummed and nodded as she finally allowed herself to fully tuck into her dinner. Regen, however, chuckled, “Yes, she provided an ample excuse to dismiss the class early, as I could tell that everyone was getting restless. As they always do when the First-Class Exams roll around.”

Lernen raised an eyebrow at that, but said nothing. It wasn’t his business to dictate to instructors how to run their classes, not when he hadn’t taught a class in nearly a decade. Besides, the shorter class wasn’t what caused his eyebrow to twitch. They ate in relative silence after that.

Sense flopped onto her bed that night and hugged her pillow to her face and let out a muffled groan. To some, it might well be a great feat that she was still sane, all things considered. But to her, her cowardice and lack of action was starting to become unbearable. Still, there was a silver lining. There were only two weeks before her test in the Exams, and so two weeks before the field trip to the Ruin of the King’s Tomb, and, depending on how many Mages there are… well, maybe she’ll pluck up the courage.

Fat chance.

So long as she lived, she’d never be worthy of holding Regen in the ways she dreamt. She’d just have to watch from the sidelines as some woman, probably buxom no less, wooed him off his feet. That candle she held for him would just have to be her secret. She would just have to hope for Lernen’s discretion. He had tried, years ago, to get her to confront her feelings for the man, but she couldn’t, not then, not now.

Was it too early to get some cats?

As she nodded off, however, her mind wandered. And it wandered to the past tonight. Not to her past as a First-Class Mage, nor the death she saw. It wandered to turn a very old memory into her dream.

Himmel the Hero had passed away not more than five years ago. Both Regen and Sense were only six, but the story of the Heroes Party was already starting to fade. At least from the minds of the middle-aged adults. Children and the elderly still put respect on the Heroes’ names, even if the children didn’t fully understand why. But Sense had shoved all of the questions to the side when Regen came running up to her. “I’ve got the book!” he shouted, holding the thick tome like it was the greatest treasure in the world. And to the bookish pair, it could well have been.

Sense had smiled, “Shall we go to our tree?” she had asked, receiving an enthusiastic nod in reply. She had then practically dragged Regen to their tree .

Their tree was a large old oak, near the outskirts of their village. It was rather secluded, but that wasn’t what the pair cared about, though they had chased off more than one pair of… irresponsible teenagers since claiming it. No, what mattered to them was the fact that the tree’s base was perfectly shaped to fit the small forms of Sense and Regen, especially when they lounged against each other.

And so it was there that they read the book on Himmel the Hero and Frieren the Slayer, with Sense curled into Regen’s side as he held the book with one hand and soothed her hair with the other. There, they first read of the supposed love that the Hero had for the Elven Mage. And it was there that they first laid eyes on what their heroes looked like. “I can kind of see why Himmel would have been in love with Frieren.” Sense had remarked as they looked at a picture of her.

Regen, on the other hand, frowned. “I don’t see it,” he pouted. “Even Ekel has more attractive features. And she’s nowhere near as beautiful as you, dear Sense.”

Sense heart then, as it did now, fluttered, and her face turned a bright red. Then something that didn’t happen back then happened, and Regen KISSED her.

That was enough to jolt her awake. Now her own dreams were betraying her. She had never used her spell that she was awarded for becoming a First-Class Mage because she was… desiring intimacy. Tonight would be the first, and she doubted it would be the last.

It would be funny, if ever mentioned years later, that she was both right and she was wrong.

Notes from the Äußerst facility:

Entry from the Journal of First-Class Mage Regen, Master of Potions and Poisons, Early Summer, 29 years after the Death of Himmel the Hero, Ten Days to the First-Class Mage Exams.

I am a bloody coward.

That can be the only conclusion after today’s events. Sense approached me after I dismissed the Herbology class while we were in the gardens, and we walked about for a while afterwards. I put a Lotus in her hair.

I put a Lotus in her hair.

Fecking Hells, she was RIGHT THERE! I was whispering right into her ear! I SHOULD HAVE KISSED HER!

Sigh. I doubt she knows the Language of Flowers. I just know that the Lotus, the flower of Eternal Love, is her favourite. I can’t bring myself to explain the symbolism; I’d rather sink into the ground or would die of embarrassment. I gave her Lotus Flowers many times over the years, knowing exactly  what they meant in the eyes of the nobility. And yet, I cannot say three words to save my life. I can’t even write them! My hands shake terribly at the thought.

Will I really stand by and let some strong mage whisk her off her feet…

If I cannot find courage, perhaps that is my only recourse: loving her by letting her find happiness.

10 days. Then the first of the First-Class examinations begin and she’s already invited me along to observe. I’ll have to remember my usual travelling supplies. I hope they’ve not been made a meal of by rats or the like. That would be… inconvenient.

Chapter Text

The day finally came. All of the applicants were assembled in the Great Hall, and Genau stood before everyone, droning on about the first test. Neither Sense nor Regen paid much attention to their colleague, however, as they quietly observed all the prospects. “You observed her Second-Class exam, didn’t you?” Regen asked, nodding in the general direction of the green-haired girl.

Sense frowned, “Yes. Her name is Übel; she was the one who killed Burg,” she replied.

Regen rubbed his chin, “Mistress Serie would get on with her, I imagine,” he remarked, voice bereft of amusement.

Sense hummed, “Her imagination and visualisation skills are limitless. You’re the only other mage I can think of who compares.”

Regen chuckled. Sense was too modest for her own good sometimes. Then he noticed the older man in the crowd, “I didn’t realise that the Imperial Mage Denken was taking the test,” he murmured.

Sense raised an eyebrow, “Lernen’s friend?”

Regen nodded, “The same. I doubt he’ll struggle personally with the exams. It will be whether others listen to his wisdom that will affect the number of First-Class Mages we get this year.”

Sense hummed, that would make sense, if he were Lernen’s friend from before he was apprenticed to Serie. Then she saw someone who made her pause. “She looks familiar…”

Regen made a noise of confusion before looking around to see what she was. “Could it be? Why would Frieren the Slayer need a First-Class Mage certification? She could beat the crap out of all of the current ones, even if we all rushed her, and still be trying to wake up for the day.”

Sense furrowed her brow, a puzzle to be sure. Unbidden, her memory played again: And she’s nowhere near as beautiful as you, dear Sense. Glancing at Regen out of the corner of her eye, she couldn’t help but wonder, “Is that still the case…”

Regen turned to face her with an eyebrow raised, “Hmm? What was that?” he asked.

Sense shook her head, not meaning to say that out loud. “Nothing.”

Regen didn’t look like he believed her, but said nothing. Instead, he turned his attention back to the applicants. “How many do you think will make it out of the test?” he whispered.

Sense frowned. There were nearly 60 applicants, but most of them were chaff. And though the exams were meant to separate them from the wheat, she understood what he was getting at. “We will probably only see about a third of them proceed to the Second Test,” she replied before grimacing, “Probably a similar number will perish.”

Regen sighed and shut his eyes, “Such a waste,” he muttered. If he turned his gaze to an applicant, he could see what their future would have been if they had foregone or forestalled taking the Exams. Some, like Denken, he wasn’t sure if there was another opportunity. Most, however, would have other chances. If they survived this one, that was. Those they spoke of were often the ones he couldn’t visualise the future of. Sense understood. Suddenly, she heard Regen’s breath hitch, drawing her attention quickly to him, “What is it?” she asked.

Regen shook his head, “Possibly nothing, but the girl over there. She looks a lot like Uncle Welten and Aunt Abel,” he said, nodding at the purple-haired girl. “Maybe I’m just seeing things, it is the anniversary on the day of the Second Exam.”

Sense frowned, but moved slightly closer and placed a hand on his elbow. He always got melancholic around this time, but losing one’s entire family would do that to anyone. Though there always was a mystery around where Fern’s body was. Perhaps she had to delve into the files to see who this girl was; there was a chance, after all.

She watched the purple-haired girl speaking with Übel, the similarities becoming apparent to her as well, and a pang of hope sprang through her. Then they both heard a slight commotion coming from the front of the gathering. There, they saw one mage on top of another, pulling her pigtails. Frieren looked equal parts bemused and concerned, but Regen sighed, “Damn it Lawine…” he muttered before looking at Sense, who looked amused, “Five Silver Strahls says that they come to their senses by the end of this.”

Sense chuckled, “I’m not taking that bet, because if they’re not, I’m getting involved.”

Regen nearly choked on air, “Sense! Getting involved with our students’ love lives? I didn’t think you had it in you,” he whispered.

Sense smiled as she looked up at Regen, “Did you forget just who helped you every time the staff gets exasperated with a pair?” she cheekily replied.

Regen bounced his head from side to side before grinning, “Broom Closet?”

Now it was Sense’s turn to smirk, “Broom Closet.”

A plan now in their minds for next week, they left the room after the applicants. They wandered the halls together, silently taking in the excited hum of every one of the other students at Äußerst. Regen understood, perhaps better than any of the other instructors, that it was pointless to try and teach this week until after the Confirmation Ceremony. They continued in silence until they reached Regen’s quarters, where he hung his cloak up and sat on the couch. “Is it strange that I feel oddly nostalgic for when we took the exam?” he asked, rubbing his brow.

Sense thought hard about that. She was wondering the same thing, actually. “The Tests themselves or the mere challenge? Neither you nor I were properly challenged until we came to Äußerst,” she replied, hanging her cloak beside his and sitting in an armchair beside him.

Regen frowned, “A little of both, and neither, at the same time,” he finally said, lighting the hearth in front of them. “Sure, we also had to capture a Stille, and we went through a dungeon for the second test. But it was also the fact that there were only sixteen at the start, and that we, effectively, had to camp out,” he remarked, remembering that they had shared a tent and were the only ones to do so. Being from the same village and childhood friends was enough to deter any questions, even if looking back now, maybe someone should have said something; it might have given them the push they needed.

Sense hummed, leaning into the armchair, remembering cuddling with Regen at night between the exams; it was the only way she kept warm after the fire went out. It was then that a sudden thought struck her, “You’ve never left the facility since,” she suddenly said.

Regen turned pensive. “No. I haven’t,” he mused. “My gear is still in good nick though, there’s that at least.”

Sense shook her head, “That wasn’t my point,” she replied, drawing a confused look from Regen, “You feel nostalgic for the adventure that surrounded our exam, not the exams themselves.”

Regen turned contemplative, rubbing his chin with his hand, “Huh… You know, I do believe you are right. You always are.”

Sense hummed. She usually was, though whether that was because she was right or if Regen just deferred to her was unknown. Aloud, she merely hummed her agreement and allowed Regen to steer the conversation further, “You are bringing the applicants to the testing grounds tomorrow, right?”  he asked.

She nodded, “I am,” she replied, though internally she also intended to look up the mystery girl. Perhaps she could find something.

Regen hummed to himself, “In that case, I will head to Genau’s observing point and set up our campsite before you are to take them. Should give me enough time.”

Sense nodded before hearing the bell tower in town chime out, “Is it already that late?” she muttered.

Regen chuckled, “Yes, Genau really did drone on for hours,” he replied before standing. “Well… we should probably get some rest, long day and all.” He said, holding out a hand to her. “Would you like me to brush your hair?”

Sense thought for a moment before going against her heart and shaking her head, “No, as you said, we’ll need our rest tomorrow. You especially, since you’re setting up camp.”

Regen sighed and nodded, though he kept his hand out, leading Sense to raise an eyebrow, “Bed. I’ll be fine out here,” he said.

Sense frowned and furrowed her brow, “You need actual rest, Regen,” she replied before rising to her feet, “It wouldn’t be the first time we shared a bed.”

True enough, he thought, but it’d be the first time since I’ve started to desire to take you to bed for activities other than sleep. He didn’t say anything, though, just cuddled with her as they slept.

Notes on the staff of the Äußerst facility.

Excerpt from the journal of the Great Mage Serie, 29 years after the death of Himmel the Hero, the night before the first test began.

Perhaps I should speed up my arrival to Äußerst. Poor Lernen’s raven arrived not a few minutes before I was about to lie down for the night, detailing everything of the day’s events. And my goodness, it was a busy day.

I suppose I should get out my annoyance first, it is better for me, as Falsch tells me. Frieren has arrived, seeking a First-Class certification. And yet, she did so, not because she wanted the power or privilege, but, according to Lernen, because a girl who might well be her apprentice more or less ordered her to. If I had been there, I would have explained that there was no need, as the Holy Emblem that she carried would still be recognised, as Lernen did.

I can practically hear Flamme laughing from beyond the grave. The student I took on a whim, the first student I ever took on, found herself an apprentice, and now that apprentice has found herself one. And, if the stories from around the North are to be believed, they are every bit as powerful as Flamme was, and they hold similar views on magic, though the girl apparently is well aware of her mortality, as supposedly she is the one pushing their expedition to who knows where along.

But enough about them. Apparently, we have 57 applicants this time around for the First-Class Mage Exam, including Frieren and her student. This is by far the most I’ve seen, but I do not doubt that what Lernen overheard Sense say is accurate: only about a third will make it to the second stage.

Speaking of Sense, and, by extension, Regen, they are so obtuse. Seriously! What do they think will happen when they go to each other’s quarters in the evening and are seen again until leaving those same quarters the following morning ? I would have expected Regen to act as such; in my experience, men can sometimes be a bit slow at these things. But Sense ? I'm unsure whether my hope that they will figure it out on their own is too optimistic or not. I know that they’ll be observing the First Test together with Genau, though I doubt that Genau will care. The Second Test, however… Depending on whom they follow, there may yet be the nudge they need. Who knows, perhaps Denken will provide it, being the only applicant who was officially married at one point. If Frieren were the one to provide it, I think most people would die of shock, even though she was essentially  married for most of fifty years.

Perhaps I should say something to the three of them when I arrive. Frieren’s face would make it worth it by itself. Sense and Regen, on the other hand… soon.

If I proceeded at my usual pace, I would arrive at the beginning of the day of the Confirment Ceremony. Yes, I think I will speed up, if only to spare the others the trouble.

Chapter Text

Sense absently rubbed the sleep out of her eyes. Even after forgetting to cast her spell upon herself last night, she still got the best night's sleep she ever had. Even her momentary shock when she awoke with Regen having his arms around her wasn’t bad, just unexpected. Though he had turned over soon thereafter, causing Sense’s heart to pang with disappointment. Now she stood before the applicants, waiting for a few more minutes before heading out. Seeing Frieren being dragged to the yard by the purple-haired girl had brought a smile to her face, and her mind absently cast itself to the question of who she was. She had discovered that the girl was named Fern, but whether she was the same Fern remained to be determined. “If I may have everyone’s attention!” she called out, halting all conversation, “If you would follow me, I will lead you to the grounds for the First Exam.”

Perhaps, after the earlier display, Sense should not have been surprised that Fern would drag Frieren along. But she was. Though some of the surprise might have been from the fact that Fern was dragging her along and was the quickest to follow right behind her. It was more accurate to say, by the time they reached the main gates of Äußerst, that Fern and Sense were leading everyone while Fern was dragging along one of the most powerful Mages in the world’s history like an exasperated mother dragging along her child. “Fern, was it?” she asked, receiving a nod from the girl, “Would you happen to be from Boden? A friend of mine thought he recognised you from there.”

Fern looked at Sense strangely, “I haven’t been in Boden for over thirteen years. How?”

Now it was Sense who looked strangely at Fern, closely studying her. “I pray that I am right,” she said, shaking her head, “If your parents were Welten and Abel…”

Fern gasped, and Frieren understood that this was important, though she didn’t know how. Sense, on the other hand, heard her and turned to face her with a tear in her eye, “You are her. Regen and I spent the better part of a year trying to find you,” she said before touching her elbow, as if to ensure that she wasn’t hallucinating.

Now it was Fern’s turn to have tears in her eyes, “C-Cousin Regen was looking for me? I thought he was dead.”

Sense shook her head. “No, he and I arrived a day late to be of any use other than mourning,” she replied, before a small smile grew on her face. “He will be rooting for you, once I tell him.”

Fern’s lips trembled, but before she could speak, they arrived, seeing Genau standing around, waiting for them, and Regen putting the last bits together for a fairly large tent. Sense didn’t pay any attention to their colleague after delivering the applicants; she just made her way over to Regen and wordlessly helped him finish their tent. A rather spacious one, if push came to shove, it could house a dozen people, and they would still have room to move about without stepping on anyone. “The Barrier should prevent the weather from affecting us,” Genau said from behind them.

Regen shrugged, “The tent is less for the weather and more for comfort,” he said before standing, “Besides, never discount the improbable.”

Genau did not see fit to respond, though he looked at Sense and said, “You should consider it for the second test, Sense.”

Sense frowned, “It would be superfluous to my needs,” she replied as a Stille landed on her head. “Besides, my exam is not based on luck.”

Regen bit his lip, if only to keep from laughing aloud as Sense began to tell off Genau for his test’s parameters whilst a small orange bird perched on her head. And she continued, “So many prospects will die thanks to this test. So many promising young mages who only did as they were told or recommended.”

Genau shrugged, as if it was not his concern, “These tests are to weed out the unworthy and the weak.” he replied before looking her in the eye, “Besides, your tests are often just as cruel, not a single person has passed them since you started administering them twelve years ago. Perhaps they are too difficult.”

Sense raised an eyebrow, “Or perhaps they were not ready for the challenges a First-Class Mage would face. The difference being that my tests allowed the unworthy to train for another chance, or to choose a different path.”

Regen couldn’t help but interject, “There are fewer than 2.000 mages in the world now. Do we really have such a surplus of mages that we can afford to spend them in blood games?”

Genau looked at Regen with a smirk on his face, “Well, as you have never proctored one of these exams, you wouldn’t know what Mistress Serie is looking for.”

Regen just rolled his eyes, but they were smiling as he turned and saw a Stille perched on Sense’s hand and another couple on either her head or her shoulders. “If any more take roost on you, Sense, you’ll fly away,” he joked.

Sense looked at him and used her free hand to cover her mouth, though not fast enough that Regen didn’t see the look of amusement on her face. “What?”

Sense smiled from behind her hand, “Well, you’ve got a veritable rookery on your shoulders and head, Regen.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, and, assuming that the birds were also Stilles and not wanting to scare off the ones around Sense, carefully conjured a mirror some distance away. There, he boggled at the sight of… twenty? Yes, twenty Stilles roosting on him. At his face of confusion and surprise, Sense giggled. Her heart was aflutter looking at him, especially when he bowed majestically to her, even if all the birds on him dampened the effect.

Eventually, the birds decided to move on, except for one that seemed to be attached to Sense. Regen chuckled as he rubbed her arms while they sat by the fire that night. Though the barrier that Serie had put up kept out the rain, it did little against the chill. Genau had gone off to sleep long ago, but sleep evaded the pair for a while longer. Then, just as she was about to nod off, Sense remembered: “The girl is your cousin. She survived.”

That caused Regen to stop his ministrations, his face drained of blood, and suddenly he started holding Sense tightly. “S-She is?” he whispered. When she nodded, he wrapped his arms around her and buried his head in her shoulder. “Thank the Goddess,” he breathed, only just getting the words out through the tears.

Sense outstretched her mana, not in a way to disturb the Stilles, but in a way that she could use to sense other mages. “She’s alright. She’s even got a Stille,” she whispered back.

Regen hummed, but didn’t move. Eventually, though, Sense had to move them into their tent for the night to sleep, though Regen, it appeared, cried himself to sleep. Though there were two bedrolls, Sense came to the conclusion that he needed her close tonight, even if he didn’t realise it.

They both awoke long before Genau did, which was ample time to extricate themselves from their… compromising position. For a long while, nothing of note happened, though Regen chuckled when he saw a barrage of offensive spells being sent against someone, though that turned to awe after he reached a high count of 37 Zoltraaks cast by someone against another in a second, even more so when Sense announced that Fern had put on the show.

Eventually, they saw a fire tornado, and Sense made a comment that Regen felt was completely reasonable, all things considered: “Are we sure the barrier will hold?”

Genau huffed, “The Great Mage Serie crafted it, of course it will.”

Regen looked up at the barrier, rain impacting it from the other side. Sense, on the other hand, continued, “Perhaps, but someone has been analysing the barrier since last night.”

That drew Regen’s attention sharply; he could think of only one mage crazy enough to try to take down a barrier made by Serie and could succeed. Genau, on the other hand, worshipped Serie, so his response was expected: “It’s a pointless endeavour.”

Sense frowned, but drank her tea. Sudden shade soon drew her attention to what was above her. “Parasol,” Regen explained with a wink.

Meaning it’s an umbrella, and he doesn’t believe it’s impossible to break the barrier. Sense thought. Why isn’t he the Master of Conjuration? It’s beautiful! Though once she thought about it, that would be too many classes on his plate… perhaps she should take a few of the potions classes off his plate.

Just then, a bright light came from the grounds and rushed to the barrier. “It would appear as though she’s finished,” she remarked.

Genau rolled his eyes. “Impossible, the barrier will never come down,” he stated.

“Then never is here.” Sense retorted just as the loudest crash anyone had ever heard rang out and the barrier shattered.

Regen was glad that he had the foresight to conjure Sense’s umbrella between them, so he was also covered. Genau, with his overconfidence shattered, took several moments to come out of his shocked state before rushing into his small tent to grab an umbrella. When he returned, he looked at Sense, “Who was that?”

Sense’s lips twitched, glad to have an acknowledged informational advantage over Genau, “That was Frieren, Mage of the Heroes’ Party. Lernen allowed her to take the exam when she showed her Holy Emblem.”

Regen’s face drained of its blood for the second time in a short while, “H-Holy Emblem? Who would deny a Great Mage anything? Who is that stupid?”

Sense shrugged; she was wondering something similar. Fortunately, there were no further fireworks for the remainder of the exam, and soon eighteen mages approached the trio of First-Class Mages, though Genau was the one who spoke to them. Sense nudged Regen, unsure if he was mentally present, until he spoke: “She really does look like them.”

Sense looked at Fern as Genau was leaving. Gently grabbing his elbow, she began leading him over to the six mages, Frieren and Fern’s groups having coalesced around each other when they arrived. Regen nodded to the two they had known for a while, “Kanne, Lawine, good to see you made it through this round.”

Kanne beamed, despite the late hour. Lawine, on the other hand, curtsied to them, “Thank you, Master Regen.”

Regen smiled, then turned to Fern, the similarities apparent at such a close range. “Your parents would be proud, Fern.”

That was all that Fern needed to rush over to him and wrap her arms around him. The tears between the two flowed freely, so it was left to Sense to explain to Übel and Land, “First Cousins,” and that was all they needed as Land’s face softened and Übel grew a smile that wasn’t her usual predatory type. Even Frieren grew a smile. With that, the group began walking back to Äußerst.

Notes on the Staff of the Äußerst facility:

Entry of the Journal of Sense, 29 years after the Death of Himmel the Hero, the night of the end of the First Test for the First-Class Mage Exam.

I should not be surprised at the number of Deaths and Drop-Outs, but I am, at least in the case of the former.

There were only 19 Drop-Outs. Out of 39 failures. 20 promising mages, lives cut short, potential never seen.

Regen is already coordinating the return of the bodies we were able to recover to their homelands, though there will be a few, I’m sure, that will end up laid to rest here. He’s already making preparations for that as well.

The one good thing about this test was that Regen was finally reunited with his cousin, Fern. I wasn’t sure if she’d ever be found, but she survived. Perhaps we’ll follow her into the dungeon, if only to hear her story.

Two days, and then I send out the letters explaining where to go and the exam. Two days… I wish I had done this every time I had to proctor; these things are always so much more fun and better with Regen as a companion.

But… ----- that’s ju--- -- ---rt of me tha-- -----

I should stop; these tears will only ruin this journal.

Chapter Text

Regen, Sense, and Lernen had spent the entire day after the first test retrieving what bodies they could. They only managed to find 17 of the 20, but they knew that they would not find any more. Well… in some cases, parts of the 17. After they completed that, they began walking through Äußerst, ostensibly to return to the Academy, though Lernen had another stop in mind. “Lernen? Where are you going?” Regen asked.

Lernen turned back to face the oblivious pair, “I thought we could do with some good food. My treat.”

Regen looked at Sense, who merely shrugged. She was never one to turn down free food. So they followed him to a familiar restaurant, “The Bell?” Sense questioned.

Lernen hummed, “As I said three months ago, good food. I come here as often as I can.”

Regen chuckled as he held the door open for Sense, “I would, but I can only afford it as a treat every now and then.”

Lernen’s eyes crinkled with amusement, surprise carefully concealed. He knew that Regen only ever came to the Bell whenever it was Sense’s birthday, or someone else was paying. That was enough to spark his mind's curiosity. After all, it shouldn’t matter that Regen only taught the potions classes; he’s still a First-Class Mage. Filing that away for future study, Lernen watched as the pair waved to the group containing Frieren before heading to a table in a quiet corner. Joining them, he couldn’t help but ask: “Do you know them?”

Regen chuckled as he poured water for the three of them, “In a manner of speech, yes,” he replied, “The purple-haired girl is my lost cousin, whom I thought to be dead for all this time.”

Lernen raised an eyebrow. “That’s incredible!” he breathed. He knew from that day’s work that the girl had been a force to be reckoned with, especially once they encountered the valley that could only have been created with magic, with traces of mana practically overflowing. “She will certainly do well in the Exam, that much I could sense when I first met their party. But that she is the one you spent years searching for? Thank the Goddess.”

Regen smiled as he read his menu; he hoped that at some point in the near future, he could share what he had learnt when he made First-Class with her, so they might keep in touch. They had noticed that Frieren and Fern were not the only Exam Applicants at the Bell, but the trio of First-Class Mages were still in the restaurant after they all left, only receiving their food then.  This allowed them to discuss some things that they would not have. Gossip. “You’ve seen them in action by now,” Lernen said, by way of opening. “Who do you think stands out, other than the obvious?”

Regen leaned back in his seat, chewing his schweinshaxe before answering, “Well… apart from Frieren, Fern and Denken, Wirbel and Methode seem the most likely to do well,” he replied before turning to Sense, “What do you think?”

Sense fought down the flush of annoyance that she felt when she heard Methode’s name. It wasn’t anything against the mage, nor had she done anything to deserve her wrath. It was just that she was exactly the sort of person that Sense thought would swoop Regen off his feet; she was impressed that the woman hadn’t tried. Though that might have been down to the rapid nature of the exams. Forcing her tone to remain impassive, and swallowing her käsespätzle, she responded: “Übel will likely pass, as will Land, especially if my senses are not deceiving me.”

Regen looked relieved, “So it wasn’t just me,” he muttered. He had thought he sensed something off about the unremarkable mage.

Lernen raised an eyebrow, “I’m surprised you aren’t championing Kanne or Lawine. I would have thought that the two of you, being their favourite instructors, would champion the pair.”

Regen sighed. He remembered the horror on his face after hearing that the pair would be taking the exam. “Don’t get me wrong,” he replied, “They are powerful mages, and I have no doubt that they will become First-Class Mages. Eventually.”

Lernen hummed, “Yes, a pair of girls not even at their majority taking the First-Class Exam is highly ambitious. And I do not sense the same ambition in them as I did in the pair of you. Though, as I understand it, Lawine’s family may have pressured her into the exam, and where Lawine goes, Kanne follows.”

Regen bit his lip, and Sense placed a gentle hand on his elbow. He had… opinions about Lawine’s family. Opinions that Sense shared, but she was civil about it, Regen… Regen had a bit of a temper when it came to things like that, so he prevented there from being a problem by actively avoiding the family of one of his favourite students. They finished the rest of their meal in companionable silence before returning to the Academy for rest.

Morning found Regen at the Swallow Inn. He knew, from past experience, that the Swallow was the most likely place to find the applicants, or, more specifically, to find Fern, and possibly even her Master. When he arrived, the Innkeeper was most gracious and had told him that Fern had arrived with a trio of girls with her, even leading him to the room she had rented out. With a small amount of trepidation, he knocked. It didn’t take long before the door cracked open to reveal the visage of Frieren, who recognised him at once. “Fern! Your cousin is here!” she called out, stepping aside.

Inside the room, sitting on the beds were Fern, Lawine, and Kanne, which led to a small smile gracing his face. “Thank you, Lady Frieren.” He replied before looking at the trio of girls on the bed, “Well. I’m glad to see that my two favourite students are getting along with my cousin!”

Fern rose and embraced him before leading him to the group. “You know Mistress Frieren’s teammates?” she asked.

“Of course I do!” he exclaimed, taking the open chair, “I’m Master of Potions and Poisons here, which also means that I handle the Herbology classes as well.”

Lawine smiled at the sight of him, truly a favourite instructor of everyone, “Master Regen is well-versed in all of the types of studies offered here. Which means that everyone pretty much knows him because they all go to him for help.”

Regen waved off the praise, “Tsk, I’m okay at many things. Many times, students would probably be better served by going to the relevant instructor, but many of my colleagues are… difficult to approach, shall we say.”

Lawine may have stifled her giggle, but Kanne held no such compunction, “Hah, that is putting it mildly. I think most of us would rather try to approach the Great Mage Serie than any of the instructors. They give poor marks if we breathe wrong.”

Fern raised her eyebrows, and Frieren looked at Regen, who looked annoyed. “He’s still doing that?” he muttered. “Maybe I should have our next disagreement be public,” he mused.

Both Lawine and Kanne looked pleased to hear that, but before they could comment, a raven tapped the window incessantly. Regen snorted, “She always finds the ones with attitude,” he mumbled.

Frieren raised an eyebrow, “What do you mean?” she asked.

Regen just gestured to Fern, who was reading the letter the raven delivered. “It’s the Second Test instructions,” she revealed. “We’re to go to the Ruins of the King’s Tomb and are going to dive through it for the test tomorrow,” she said before turning startled, “Mistress Sense is going to be proctoring it!”

Frieren cocked her head to the side, the name sounded familiar, she just couldn’t place it. “Why is that a bad thing?” she settled on asking.

Lawine answered for him, “Because for the past twelve years, she’s proctored the Second Exam. No one has ever passed it since she took it over.”

Kanne moaned in despair, but Regen rolled his eyes. “You’ve seen the First Exam and the bloodshed it entailed. But what if I told you that everyone who has failed Sense’s exams still lives, or at least, didn’t die during the exam or because of it.”

The three younger girls all looked at him curiously, and he shook his head with a fond smile on his face, “Sense has an aversion to violence between applicants. She doesn’t even like fighting in general, so she’s devised tests that, worst comes to worst, may leave you winded for a few weeks, or maybe recovering from an injury, but that’s it. Injury,” he explained before looking each of them in the eye, “If you can make it through the majority of the second exam, or fail out on the third, you should take the exams again when they next come around.”

Strangely, that put Fern more at ease than Lawine or Kanne. But Regen shook it off, “Now!” he exclaimed, “I haven’t seen you, Fern, since you were a swaddling in your mother’s arms, and I had to fight to be allowed to hold you. I’m sure you’re interested in a few stories of my time as a First-Class Mage. The stories I don’t tell the students at the academy.”

Fern nodded and Regen settled in, “Well, here’s a story about when I first became a First-Class Mage and Mistress Serie still wasn’t sure about me…”

Notes of the Staff of the Äußerst Facility:

A letter from First-Class Mage Lernen to Great Mage Serie, 29 years after the Death of Himmel the Hero, the night before the Second Examination and her reply, written on the same night.

Mistress Serie,

The Examinations proceed as expected. 18 Mages have passed the first test and are going to the second one in the morning. Yesterday, Master Regen, Mistress Sense, and I retrieved what we could of the deceased mages who took the first test, coming up with 17 of the 20 missing, either in whole or part. I have already sent off the remaining 19 who failed. I doubt we will see them again.

After our work, I took Sense and Regen to the Bell for dinner. We noticed a few of the applicants there (Mistress Frieren and her apprentice primarily). Regen went and met with Mistress Frieren’s apprentice today; as it turns out, she is the cousin he had spent so long searching for. That story of survival will be one of interest, I assume.

Speaking of Master Regen, I got curious about something he said. “… but I can only afford it [dinner at the Bell] as a treat every now and then.” Now, far be it from me to judge the financial decisions of a man, but Master Regen is the most cost-conscious of all of us. So, I got nosy and discovered that Regen is the lowest-paid member of the Academy staff! Even when accounting for tenure and the fact that he is a First-Class Mage, he is vastly underpaid, in my opinion. I’ve attached copies of the documentation for your perusal, at your pleasure.

Respectfully Yours

Lernen

Lernen,

I was starting to wonder much the same thing. It seemed odd to me, but Regen never did complain, so I never considered it. I will need to access the payslips when I arrive tomorrow evening, but if I am right in my guess, Regen has been making a third of what he should be. Perhaps it is no wonder, then, why he is teaching the maximum amount of classes.

Lernen. I would like you to conduct a discreet investigation into the matter. Someone had to consciously decide that Regen was not worth the money that he was rightfully owed. My first inclination would be to have their head separated from their neck, but expulsion will do. For now. Presently, I am tempted to increase his pay, if only so we don’t have to give out several thousand golden Strahls all at once. Our coffers wouldn’t survive. Granted, we may need to broach the subject after  we get our targets together. Otherwise, he would probably try to brush it off.

As for the report about the First Test, it’s regrettable that so many Mages were killed. I’d rather have them fail out than die. I will need to consider making some changes.

So, Frieren’s apprentice is Regen’s Cousin? Interesting. I hope that I get the chance to meet her. It would be a shame if her potential were wasted. And, maybe, I can tell some of the stories that Regen wouldn’t.

As Always,

Serie

Chapter Text

Morning found Regen standing beside Sense in the highlands around Äußerst, outside the Ruins of the King’s Tomb. He knew the history; the King who was supposedly still buried here was from the Unified Dynasty. However, over a thousand years ago, the Tomb had fallen into ruin and had become a treacherous dungeon. Now it would serve as the Second Test in the First-Class Mage Exam for the remaining 18 Mages. Despite how he felt about each of the applicants, there was still the fact that no one had ever passed one of Sense’s exams. Though no one had ever died, so that was always some consolation. “The Second Test is about to begin,” Sense began. “It is simplicity incarnate. All you have to do to pass this test is reach the bottom of the dungeon. And, as I abhor violence, everyone who reaches the bottom will pass.”

All the participants looked at each other, and the bald one, Blei, if Regen remembered rightly, spoke up: “Do you intend for all of us to fail? This Tomb has never been cleared before.”

Sense frowned, as did Regen, “As First-Class Mages, you will be expected to achieve the impossible on a regular basis,” he replied, “Even in unexplored territory.”

The tall woman, Methode as per his memory, asked a sensible question: “How shall we prove our success? Is there some trinket to gather?”

Sense shook her head, “No, Master Regen and I will be accompanying one group to the bottom. However, unless in an extreme circumstance, we will provide neither aid nor assistance.” she replied before using her hair to hold out a bottle, “However, as I do not wish for any of you to die, you will be provided with these escape golems. In case you cannot proceed in any circumstance, shatter the bottle. Breaking the bottle will result in an automatic failure; however, I would rather you train for a few more years than die because you have overestimated your abilities.”

Regen nodded, “The bottles will shatter automatically at dawn tomorrow, so there can be no dilly-dallying.”

With that, everyone received their golems and began discussing plans. Regen was not at all surprised when Denken suggested that they all work together; from Lernen’s stories, that was the sort of Mage that he was. Just as unsurprisingly, however, very few saw things his way, either because they were paranoid or because the First Test had ruined any potential for trust between groups. They watched as six of the mages went in their First Test groups separately, and one fool went in by himself. Of the eleven remaining, Sense and Regen watched as Frieren and Fern approached the entrance together. “I think it would be best for us to follow you.” Sense remarked.

Frieren hummed, “Just don’t get in the way,” she replied.

Regen smirked, “As if.” It was his first Dungeon Raid since becoming a First-Class Mage; he hadn’t done this since he and Sense were in their childhood. As such, he began to shake off the dust of his memories.

What followed was quite the exploration. Frieren was meticulous in her study of the dungeon, and Fern was willing to, at the very least, humour her master. Even when Frieren identified a trap that Sense was about to step on, Regen was already moving her around it, having identified it himself. “You two seem to know your way around dungeons rather well,” Fern remarked, question unaired but heard clearly.

Frieren grew a small smile, “Himmel would insist that we explore every corner of a dungeon before proceeding through it. Mostly because it would be fun, though I was tempted when he would mention the possibility of finding rare grimoires.”

Regen chuckled; it sounded like what a powerful mage bored out of their mind would say. “I actually haven’t been in a real dungeon raid since…” he trailed off, trying to remember exactly when it was.

“The Halls of Bolor in the Southern Lands, when we were eight.” Sense supplied, drawing surprised looks from the other two, “We were bookish children, but adventurous,” she remarked, growing a fond smile on her face, “We also got grounded for a year.”

Regen snorted, “You did. Your parents, Fern, were more concerned than mine. Aunt Abel lectured me for months about responsibility.”

Sense shut her eyes, remembering their secret agreement all those years ago. To become First-Class Mages together. They had been the youngest Fifth-Class Mages and the first to jump from Fifth-Class to First-Class, a feat that no one else had managed to replicate. It felt like forever ago now, especially once they considered that they had now been First-Class Mages for longer than they had not. Sense opened her eyes when they reached a room with a single chest in the centre. Frieren, almost excitedly, bounded up to it, sensing a great deal of mana in it. Fern, on the other hand, was certain it was a mimic. Regen looked at Sense, “Did we really follow a gambling addict?” He whispered.

When Frieren opened the chest and discovered that it was, indeed, a mimic, Sense cocked her head to the side. “It would seem so,” she replied, watching as Fern struggled to pull Frieren out.

Finally, Frieren told Fern to make the Mimic gag, and the several hundred-year-old elf popped out and destroyed the Mimic. “I suddenly find myself concerned about how long you two have been travelling together…” Regen muttered.

Frieren dusted herself down, “Only six years,” she replied, not seeing Regen’s eyes widen, “Though I’ve been teaching her magic for about ten.”

Regen pursed his lips, “Somehow, that makes me more uneasy,” he remarked as they continued their way through the dungeon.

Sense huffed, “Were we any more responsible at that age?” she countered.

Regen snorted as the girls explored a room, “We became First-Class Mages before we became teenagers. I then started teaching, and you started doing missions.”

Sense hummed, “We always were the exceptions. And morbid, if I remember.”

Regen chuckled, “Aye, that I was,” he replied before looking at her, “You, not so much, but I remember bemoaning that I would go grey or bald with the antics of my students before thirty-five.”

Sense smiled at the memories, especially once Frieren started inspecting her trinkets and Fern joined them. Then she decided to broach a topic with the girl she wasn’t sure she wanted an answer to: “It’s strange, Fern. I sense and see your talent and skill, and yet I sense almost no passion or enthusiasm for magic in you.”

Fern sighed, “I likely exhausted all of my passion when I was very young. I trained tirelessly to become a full-fledged mage to repay the man who saved me.”

Regen raised an eyebrow; he didn’t know that story, not yet. Though considering they only reconnected yesterday, that was natural. Sense continued, though, “So why do you continue to pursue magic?”

Fern grew a soft smile, “Well… look at her,” gesturing to Frieren, still enthusiastically sorting her babbles. “She looks so happy, it’s clear that magic means a lot to her. So I guess that her being happy makes me happy.”

Regen watched Frieren and began to understand. “It may be a bit odd, you seeming in more of a maternal role to someone a hundred times your age, but you do seem, if not happy, then at peace.” he whispered before smirking, “And besides, I suspect that she is providing you with great practice for when you decide to find someone and have your own children.”

Frieren’s “I heard that” went unnoticed by the pair of First-Class Mages as they watched Fern turn a very bright red. Regen raised an eyebrow, “Fern?” he asked.

Fern shook her head, clearly not ready to talk about that. “We should get moving again,” she finally said, standing and walking over to Frieren to collect the items she was collecting.

There was half a moment where Regen considered that they were more alike than they realised. Looking at Sense, who didn’t notice, he couldn’t help but wonder if he should consider taking advice from his cousin, almost half his age, about love. Boy, this was a strange time to be alive. Shaking his own head clear of such thoughts, he held out a hand for Sense and helped her stand.

They walked for a few more hours, diligently mapping the entire dungeon, even finding a mural in a hidden room from the era, the best preserved anyone had laid their eyes on in the last thousand or more years. Eventually, though, they descended a ladder, the girls first, then Regen. “It’s rather unusual how smoothly we’ve been going,” Fern remarked.

Just before anyone could reply, they came into a large chamber where Denken, Laufen, Richter, and Methode were looking the worst for wear. “Why aren’t you all charging ahead to victory?” Frieren asked.

Denken answered for them as Regen cast a critical eye over the group. “According to our analysis of the structure, the final room should be beyond the next chamber,” he replied, before grunting at the door. “But that thing has been standing sentry for half a day.”

Frieren peered through the keyhole and made a noise of interest: “A perfect replica of me,” she remarked before pulling back, grin on her face, “Now this is how dungeon diving should be!”

Regen looked sharply at Sense, “You know, I remarked a few months ago to Lernen that the worst-case scenario I could come up with would be if Frieren the Slayer took the tests and made it this far,” he whispered.

Sense hummed, “I will admit, I did not expect this group to have her. If anything, her presence complicates matters.”

Denken looked curiously at the pair. “What are you two talking about?” he asked, his tone as blunt as ever.

Regen and Sense looked at each other before sitting with all of the applicants: “What you see before you is a Spiegel clone.” Regen revealed. “If either Frieren or I weren’t here, you would not be getting this intelligence. However, one cannot exactly plan for a mage whom the Great Flamme trained."

Denken rubbed his beard, “If the monster is a Spiegel, then it can be assumed that all remaining participants would have their own clones as well,” he said before his eyes widened, “And our two proctors as well!”

Regen nodded, but Sense spoke up, “As we said at the start, it would only be under extreme circumstances that we would aid you as First-Class Mages are expected to do the impossible.” she said, drawing a nod from Regen, “Meaning we will tell you about what you are facing, but we will not win your battles for you.”

Richter grunted, “So we’ll still have to face your clones, but you won’t help fight them?”

Regen raised an eyebrow, but Frieren spoke, “We’ve mapped the entire dungeon. There is only one place for a Spiegel to hide, and that is on the other side of the next chamber.”

Denken hummed, “And destroying the Spiegel’s body would destroy the clones it controls. So we only need to buy time against the other clones.”

Ritcher spoke again, “Restraint or Hypnosis magic would be our best bet.”

Frieren nodded, “Normally, you would be right. But I am resistant to both of those,” she pointed out.

Denken interrupted, “Besides, I detect a sealing spell. I am not sure if it could be circumvented.”

Frieren shook her head, “Only by killing the caster,” she replied.

A sudden thud from behind them caused everyone to turn and see Dünste sprawled on the floor, bleeding profusely. Methode rushed over to his side and cast a healing spell with her Holy Scripture; the bleeding came to a halt, and colour started to return to him. Helping the woman get the man upright, Regen felt his head, coming to the conclusion that he’d live. “Easy now, you really should have broken your bottle. You very nearly died,” he murmured.

Dünste sighed, “Had… to get word to… everyone. The clones… they don’t have minds… only imitate.”

Methode nodded, “Rest now, we’ll handle the rest,” she whispered.

Dünste did so, but only after his body gave out. Regen felt his wrist and nodded, “He’ll rest for a few hours,” he muttered before looking at Methode, “Good work on the healing.”

Methode nodded, cheeks dusted red, but Regen paid no attention, instead turning his head to the rest of the group. “I think it is safe to assume that there are going to be no reinforcements.”

Denken looked particularly worried by that, though not before a voice spoke from the hall, “Now perhaps.”

Turning to face the newcomers, Regen, and Sense from her position, looked visibly relieved, “Kanne, Lawine. You’ve survived.”

Lawine’s lips twitched, “The Spiegel’s clones are avoidable, but I assume that we cannot avoid this one?”

Denken shook his head, “No, and since it is Mistress Frieren’s, a battle would be highly costly.”

Regen looked over at Sense, wondering if there was such a thing as “good enough” in Serie’s books. Then, Fern spoke up, “I may be able to kill Mistress Frieren,” she said, hand raised as if she were a student in one of Regen’s classes.

You could have heard a pin drop as the other prospects absorbed that information. Even Sense and Regen were stunned into silence. Until Frieren herself spoke with glee in her voice: “Excellent. Let the planning begin.”

They came up with good ideas, until Methode brought up a valid concern: “While these are good plans, I cannot sense either Mistresses Sense or Fern, nor Master Denken or Regen’s clones,” she revealed.

Regen frowned, he had gotten into the weeds and been helping them bounce ideas, and this was no different, “Well, I can assure you that wherever you find Lady Sense’s clone, you will find mine. Just as I can also assure you that when you think you’ve got the killing blow against her, beware of me, because either I will sacrifice myself for her or distract you for her.”

Kanne cocked her head at him, “Why do you say that, Master?” she asked, oblivious to Lawine’s attempts to silence her subtly.

Regen’s lips twitched; he had got so caught up in all the planning that he forgot that Sense was with them. She didn’t speak, and was too busy processing what he had already said to interrupt, “Because Kanne, she is the Light in the Darkness for me. The Reason I made it as far in life. Because I have loved her ever since I met her 26 years ago.”

The sudden gasp behind him drew his attention, and he was suddenly reminded that Sense was right there. And she heard every word. All of his blood, he was sure, was in his face and was throbbing behind his ears. But he made no attempt to obfuscate. Sense suddenly scooted next to him before looking around at the others. “Excuse us for a few minutes,” she said, her hair obscuring their visages from view. Although them wrapping their arms around each other and Regen falling backwards, pulling her down on top of him, was enough for everyone to know what was happening behind those locks of hair. Even Frieren.

Eventually, Denken cleared his throat, “So…” he said as Sense and Regen drew apart, Sense looking incredibly flustered and Regen’s eyes glazed over, “We are missing four of the clones, and we know that two of them will be found together.”

Lawine hummed, “We assume so,” she replied, though the massive smile on her face shattered her serious nature.

Denken nodded, “I will do what I can to locate further assistance. Methode, if you would be kind enough to look after Mister Dünste?”

The woman nodded, and Denken looked to Frieren and Fern, “Well… we’re counting on you both. Good luck.”

The pair nodded and entered the chamber, Kanne and Lawine shutting the door behind them. Denken spoke again, “And that goes for us all. Good luck, and don’t get cocky. If you cannot proceed, break your bottle.”

Everyone nodded and parted ways. Regen and Sense sat against a wall opposite Dünste while Methode guarded the entrance. An awkward silence fell around the pair, only punctuated by the sounds of explosions from the other room. Finally, though, Sense spoke: “Have you truly felt that way for so long?” she whispered.

Regen reached over and squeezed her hand. “I have,” he replied quietly. “I just never said anything because I could not see anything worthy in myself for you. I always thought you could do better than me.”

Sense frowned, “If a better man than you exists, I have not seen them. Your kind nature, quick wit and vigorous defence of those around you are all things that any woman would love to see in a man.” she replied before flushing slightly, “And you are easy on the eyes.”

Regen’s lips twitched, “Perhaps to you,” he murmured, “But I know I’m not a particularly strong or talented mage, and I’ve felt quite at home in the classroom.”

Sense leaned into him, “That is not a bad thing,” she murmured, eyes fluttering despite the relatively early hour. “Not every mage needs to be Frieren the Slayer.”

Hearing a loud explosion in the other room made Regen’s heart clench. “I don’t think anyone could match her,” he replied, sending a silent prayer to the Goddess to watch over Fern.

Suddenly, Methode dismissed her staff, “I cannot detect the clones anymore. The Spiegel must be destroyed,” she declared.

Regen let his mana reach out. Sure enough, there were no more threats in the tomb. “Good. Everyone should realise and come down here,” he remarked before frowning, “Twelve…”

Sense cocked her head to the side, “There’s never been more than one or two mages who passed the Second Exam. You say there are twelve?” she asked.

Regen nodded, “Quite. There have been years when we didn’t get nearly as many people applying for the exams, let alone reaching the final stage,” he said before rubbing his chin, “I wonder how Mistress Serie will react.”

That was a question for another time, however, as he and Sense stood before the hoard of treasure and congratulated everyone for passing the test about half an hour later. Then Denken asked a pertinent question: “And where are the ladies of the hour?”

Both he and Sense winced as they looked to the side where, surrounded by the corpses of three other mimics, Frieren was headfirst in yet another mimic. But Regen took another look over the remaining mages with a sense of pride: Kanne, Denken, Methode, Dünste, Fern, Frieren, Ehre, Scharf, Laufen, Übel, Land and Wirbel. The largest number of mages to make it to the third and final exam. But that question would plague Regen’s mind for hours until they met with Serie in two days.

Notes on the Running of the Äußerst facility:

Records of pay for Master Regen, Master of Potions and Poisons, with notation from Great Mage Serie, 29 years after the Death of Himmel the Hero.

64 ADK - Paid 5 Silver Strahls (He only taught for five months that year, and was a newly minted First-Class Mage. Payment should have been 15 Golden Strahls. -GMS)

65 ADK - Paid 12 Silver Strahls (He taught every month! Including the extra classes run in the summer months! Payment should have been 51 Golden Strahls. -GMS)

66 ADK- Paid 12 Silver Strahls (He picked up the maximum number of classes this year, same for the summer classes. Payment should have been 324 Golden Strahls. -GMS)

…

…

…

78 ADK - Paid 24 Silver Strahls (This is ridiculous. 1.080 Golden Strahls should have been set aside for him if he was going to teach this much . -GMS)

I can assume that the Paymaster will receive orders from whoever is cheating Regen out of his wages to pay 24 Silver, instead of the 1.143 Golden Strahls he is due this year, assuming that Regen continues teaching the same class load for the remainder of the year. No one else is suffering this much, and yet no one has brought it up until Lernen put the pieces together.

Since becoming a First-Class Mage, Regen has earned 21 Golden Strahls and 6 Silver. He is due 10.313 Golden Strahls and 4 Silver.

PAYMENT WILL BE DUE BY ORDERS OF GREAT MAGE SERIE. OTHERWISE HEADS WILL ROLL.

Chapter Text

When the morning came, the day after the Second Test, Regen blinked the sleep out of his eyes to find Sense in his arms and bed. With a smile, he remembered the night before and their, well… his confession. Though considering her response was to kiss him senseless, well, it worked enough for him.

Pressing a kiss to her forehead and gently extricating himself from her embrace, Regen ran himself a warm bath to ready himself for the day. He and Sense hoped to find Lawine and offer what words of comfort they could. He knew from Denken’s report that she and Richter had defeated the clone of Kanne and Lawine’s own clone before they got ambushed by theirs. At least they were healthy; that was what gave him comfort.

Drying himself and dressing in his usual attire, Regen returned to his bedroom, where he saw Sense fiddling with her hair. “Morning, sleepyhead,” he said by way of greeting.

Sense groaned. She still felt tired, but the bed was too cold without Regen there to warm it up. Perhaps it should have been odd how easily they slipped into the sort of behaviour that was appropriate for long-time couples. Or perhaps the odd part was that it was no different from what they had been doing before; it just had a new context.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Regen laying his hands on her shoulders and beginning to knead them, “Mm… you keep that up and you’ll have to put me back to bed,” she moaned.

Regen chuckled and pressed a kiss to the crown of her head. Spending all day with each other in bed didn’t sound so bad. However, they had things they wanted to do that day, so, unfortunately, they would leave the comfort of his room. They did find Kanne and Lawine together. Lawine was resting her head on the wall of the plaza of the Academy, overlooking the city, and Kanne was rubbing Lawine’s head? That was a surprise to the pair. “Hey, you two,” Regen called out, “How are you feeling, Lawine?”

Lawine looked despondent, “I’m alright, Master Regen,” she replied.

Kanne looked over at her with concern, but Sense spoke first, “If it helps, I believe you have the makings of a fine First-Class Mage, Lawine. Three years isn’t much time when you spend it learning and training.”

Lawine’s lips twitched, but her eyes never left the ground. “Thank you, Mistress Sense. I didn’t think that I would get this far to begin with.”

Honestly, neither did they. They were still surprised that Kanne was still in it. Before either of them could say anything, however, a familiar voice came from behind Regen and Sense, “Would any of you happen to know a good staff repair shop?” Frieren asked.

Regen and Sense turned around, curious expressions on their faces. Then, they remembered: Fern’s staff shattered yesterday, though neither Fern nor her master were forthcoming with details. “Actually, yes.” Regen said before turning to Sense, “Would you mind terribly if I took care of this?”

Sense just smiled with an energy she did not feel, “Go. I’m sure Richter would appreciate it.”

Regen smiled and pecked her cheek before gesturing for Frieren to follow him, “Come, Richter is the best repairman in town, and he’s got all sorts of oddities as well.”

Frieren looked a little bit relieved, and Regen couldn’t help but ask, “Where’s Fern? I would have thought that she would have been eager to get her staff repaired.”

Frieren’s lips quirked downwards, “Fern and I had a fight. I didn’t see why she shouldn’t get a new staff, and she was convinced it had value,” she replied before shaking her head, “Never understood sentimental value anyhow.”

Regen blinked. “Who gave her the staff?” he asked.

Frieren smiled a bit, “An old travelling companion of mine: Heiter. He took care of her until he passed away a few years ago.”

Regen’s eyes watered slightly, and he took a few deep breaths to steady himself. “Lady Frieren,” he said, “That staff is likely the only thing Fern has to remind her of Heiter. The only parental figure she likely remembers.”

Frieren hummed, “I suppose.”

Regen turned and looked at her, a slight connection made, “Your earrings. They are similar to the ones your Master wore, yes? Unless the history books were lying about that.”

Frieren’s smile grew slightly. “In fact, these are Flamme’s earrings. She gave them to me before she passed.”

Regen nodded, understanding more about his cousin’s mentor, “And yet you still wear them, a thousand years after her passing.”

Frieren turned thoughtful, “I never thought of it like that,” she mused.

Regen hummed, “We all want to carry a part of those we loved on with us until the end of our days, it reminds us of where we came from.” he said before coming to a stop, “Well, here we are. Richter’s shop.” he said before pushing open the door.

The man was seated behind a desk, his face bearing a tired expression. Frieren was the one to speak up, “Excuse me? Your shop came highly recommended for a staff repair.”

Richter sighed and gestured to the desk, “Let’s see it.”

Frieren placed the bag on the desk and opened it, revealing splintered wood and metal. Regen blinked at the sight, worse than he remembered. Richter, on the other hand, pulled no punches: “Are you joking? You’ve brought me trash.”

Frieren pursed her lips, “It’s not trash,” she replied, almost petulantly. “Not yet.”

Richter sighed, “You would be better served by buying a new staff. I’m not repairing it.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, all while running through what he had on him, but Frieren just sighed, “Fine,” she said, much to the men's surprise, “If you can’t repair it, then you can’t.”

She began collecting the bag when Richter sighed, “Frieren. You try my patience,” he said, “I didn’t say I couldn’t fix it.”

Thus began the long process of staff repair. Richter diligently working while Frieren and Regen looked through his shop. Frieren, though, surprisingly, was impatient, “Can you finish today? Fern will need her staff for the test tomorrow.”

Richter hummed, “I’m working as fast as I can while doing a good job,” he said before looking surprised, “Frieren. I’m sorry. This staff is far from trash. It’s clearly been well maintained and looked after.”

Regen supposed that shouldn’t surprise him, Fern would look after her last real link to someone who was like a father to her. Eventually, the staff was fully repaired, and Richter even threw on a charm to strengthen it. Regen waved Frieren off; he would take care of it. “Thank you, Richter,” he said as the elf left, “My cousin will appreciate having her staff again.”

Richter hummed, “Hopefully she will not fight such a dangerous opponent again,” he replied.

Regen shuddered, “That is putting it mildly,” he said before putting five golden Strahl coins down.

Richter raised an eyebrow, “I only charge…”

Regen cut him off, “It’s only right. It’s my fault you’re not going to be a First-Class Mage for another three years, and you just spent most of your day fixing the staff of my cousin from its very sorry state.” he said before placing a hand on his shoulder, “I wasn’t sure it was salvageable, but you managed it. Quality deserves recognition.”

With that, he left the shop, a good deal poorer than before, but for those he cared about, money was no worry. He’d just find some more work to add to his teaching wages. He made his way back to the academy, where he found Sense already in bed. Smiling to himself, he slipped beneath the covers and snuggled with her. Sense immediately responded by turning to hold onto him. This was everything he ever wanted. His life could only go up from here.

Notes from the running of the Äußerst facility:

Transcript of a conversation held between First-Class Mage Lernen and Great Mage Serie, First-Class Mage Falsch transcribing. The night of her arrival, 29 years after the Death of Himmel the Hero, the night after the Second Test, and the night before the Third Test.

Lernen: I have done as much as I could with short notice. I can tell you that the Paymaster was under the impression that he was paying Regen his dues in full. When I showed him the evidence otherwise, he seemed genuinely confused and concerned.

Serie: I would imagine so. It means that his security is flawed.

Lernen: Very. All that I can find is that the modification comes somewhere between the Paymaster’s approved expenditure report and the distribution of the funds.

Serie: So, how many people does that leave?

Lernen: Even assuming that the Paymaster was truthful, we’re looking at a potential suspect list of fifty to sixty people.

Falsch’s notes: Mistress Serie looks incredibly put out at this.

Serie: Do what you can to find the answers. Enlist whomever you need to achieve this. Then, bring the perpetrators before me. I will only be satisfied when they pay.

Falsch’s notes: Goddess! She’s terrifying in this state! Maybe we shouldn’t mention how many mages have made it to the final test. Not yet, and preferably not until Regen and Sense are present.

Lernen: Of course, Mistress. Might I ask how you intend to get Master Regen to accept the gold?

Serie: Why suggest to him that he use some of the money on Sense, of course! Even if he uses most of the money on her, that will still leave him well taken care of.

Lernen: Then it is good fortune that after the Second Test, Regen and Sense have officially  started courting.

Serie: What? How? I thought we’d have to lock them in a room with a bed and spray them with the potion that dissolves clothing before keeping them locked in for a few days!

Lernen: Apparently, Regen got so involved with the test, he forgot about Sense’s presence when they were discussing her, in reference to her Spiegel clone, and by extension, his own. He then proclaimed that “he loved her since they met 26 years ago”.

Serie: But… they would have been four !

End Transcript.

Chapter Text

Early the next morning, Regen and Sense stood with Falsch, Lernen and Genau before Serie. The Great Mage had arrived the night before, ahead of her usual schedule. Though she kept a neutral face, Regen could feel the underlying current of annoyance, which led him to hold Sense’s hand, believing it to be targeted at her. “Twelve mages. It is practically unheard of to hear of so many making it past the First Exam, much less the Second,” she said before looking at Sense, “Do you know why, Sense?”

Sense didn’t say anything, but Regen, perhaps a bit emboldened by their new status, spoke in her defence, “Arguably, there would have been more, had Lady Frieren not been present.”

It was then that the five First-Class Mages saw something that none of them had ever seen before. Perhaps no one had in thousands of years: Serie looked surprised. “Well, I should like to hear your theory, Regen,” she replied.

Regen nodded and stepped to the middle of the room. “For the First Exam, Lady Frieren’s team froze the lake and limited the number of watering holes the Stilles would go to by pouring mana into them. Arguably, if they had not done that, more teams would have captured Stilles,” he said before rubbing his chin, “But let us merely remove the Second Team from the Second Test. According to testimony from everyone involved, only two people would have been dropped out by the time that Denken’s team reached the Spiegel. From a reduced group of fifteen, that still leaves thirteen getting here. Three of which were eliminated by Frieren’s Spiegel clone blocking the way.”

Serie appeared to think about that for a moment before smirking, “I see. And, perhaps, the biggest boon that Frieren’s presence gave us was not in the mages who might become First-Class, but, at long last, getting two of our most promising mages to admit their feelings for each other. Feelings that we all could see since you two became First-Class Mages.”

Both Sense and Regen flushed, though he did not avert his gaze, “That… is a considerable boon, I will be the first to admit.” Regen replied.

Serie smirked, “I believe that to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, I will proctor the Final Exam, though I would like for you to join me, Regen. Seeing as though you’ve got the best read on this batch.”

Regen bowed his head to her, “I am honoured, Mistress.”

Serie was about to say something to Lernen, it was usually his duty to administer the final test, but before she could, something in the corner of her eye caught her attention: “Sense? Are you alright?” she asked.

Everyone looked to her. She looked pale, paler than she usually did. And her hair was almost lifeless, which was very unlike her. She was even swaying side to side. “I think…” was all that she got out before crashing to the floor.

Or she would have crashed to the floor, had Regen not sprung into action and caught her before gently laying her down, head in his lap. “FALSCH!” he shouted.

“Is already moving,” Lernen said, kneeling beside him. “She didn’t seem ill or anything?” he asked.

Regen shook his head, “No, she was more reluctant to leave bed, but I chalked it up to being comfortable,” he replied, feeling the old Mage’s hand on his shoulder, “I’ll admit to feeling reluctant myself.”

Lernen hummed. He supposed any couple young into their courtship would feel the same. He felt Sense’s brow and frowned, “She’s clammy. Could be a fever,” he mused.

Regen frowned, “She didn’t feel this warm last night, or this morning,” he muttered.

Considering that they had been holding hands the entire morning, Lernen took him at his word. Then, something that surprised both of them happened: Sense knelt down next to them and laid a hand on Regen’s free shoulder, “You should stay with her,” she whispered, “Don’t worry about the final test.”

Regen shook his head, “Respectfully, I’ll need the distraction. Otherwise, I’ll wear a hole in the floor waiting for her to wake.”

Serie hummed, though didn’t look entirely convinced. Before anything more could be said, though, Falsch flew in with the facility’s resident priest, who began looking over Sense. “She’ll be alright,” he eventually said, “It would seem that she’s experiencing a cold and a recent release of stress is amplifying the effects.”

Both Serie and Lernen glanced at Regen, who, for his part, merely nodded at the priest’s words. Lernen dismissed the priest before drawing Regen’s gaze, “I will take Lady Sense to your quarters and will remain with her until you finish with the applicants,” he said.

Regen nodded before letting himself relax. As much as Serie wanted him to recover fully, they had work to do. Eventually, they sat in the botanical gardens, Serie with her feet in the pond and Regen at a table with a tea set. Though none of the students would be offered any of it, Serie had slipped something into it which steadied his hands and he didn’t want to chance any of the applicants being knocked flat on their arses by whatever spirit she had poured in. And, unfortunately, Kanne was the first to be shown in. Serie didn’t even let her speak before passing judgment, “No, I don’t think you’re ready,” she said.

Kanne looked confused, but before she could ask, Regen spoke up, “Magic relies on visualisation. You cannot visualise yourself as a First-Class Mage, and therefore, neither can your magic.”

Kanne looked downtrodden, but Regen smiled kindly at her, “As you gain experience, you will eventually learn this skill. But until then, you’ll fail.”

Kanne nodded and bowed to the pair before leaving. Serie couldn’t help but chuckle after she left, “You handled yourself well in that. I don’t know why I never thought to have you run an exam or two.”

Regen shrugged before turning his attention to the doors. It carried on for a while: neither Dünste, Laufen, Scharf, nor Ehre could do the visualisation, or they choked up in fear at the sight of Serie’s mana. So they failed. Then Frieren entered. “I’m surprised to see you here, Frieren.” Serie said by way of opening, “You’ve still not turned into the mage you could be, even after a thousand years or defeating the Demon King.”

Frieren didn’t look too surprised by this, almost as if she had expected Serie’s words precisely. “So I fail then?” she asked, almost sounding bored with the exertion.

Serie hummed, "Perhaps. Name your favourite spell,” she replied.

Frieren’s lips twitched slightly, “It creates a field of flowers,” she replied, knowing that Serie would fill in the rest.

And indeed she did, “That’s the spell Flamme made. Utterly useless,” she said. “You fail.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, but Frieren was the one who answered, “Serie, this Garden is made with magic. That very spell you state as useless created this very place,” she said, question unasked but heard by the elf.

“I remember all my apprentices. What spells they loved, what magic they created, the heights they reached,” she replied. “In that way, perhaps, you could consider them my children. And, like a mother does for her children, she wants to remember and immortalise each of them, even if they never reached their full potential.”

Frieren smirked, “How poignant to say as such to the one apprentice of yours, who may yet become a parent,” she remarked, Regen blushing like mad. When she made to leave, however, she turned and faced Serie again, “Serie, that very spell is the very reason I became an adventurer. If not for that spell, I never would have joined the Heroes’ Party or met my apprentice. You may try and fail her, but I don’t think you will. She will surpass your expectations. The Era of Humans has begun.”

With that, Frieren left the pair. Regen looked at his teacup before looking at her, “I think I'd better stop drinking,” he remarked.

Serie just sighed, “After this exam is finished, I will start. The impudent girl.”

Regen just bit his lip, but Serie continued, “It is the truth, though. I will always remember each and every one of my apprentices. You included, Regen.”

Regen just bowed his head, “Respectfully, Mistress, I’ve not done anything to be remembered for,” he replied.

Serie disagreed, but before she could make her case, the doors opened again, revealing Fern. Surpass my expectations indeed. She thought. She’s frozen in fear, like all the others. And yet… “What do you see?” she asked.

Fern took a breath, “Your mana… It’s fluctuating.”

Regen cocked his head to the side. He had clocked on to Serie’s suppression of her mana some years ago; it was something that she had helped him refine over the years from his natural state of suppression. Maybe it was a family trait. What he could not have predicted, however, was Serie standing up, “Fern, become my apprentice. I can bring you to great heights.”

Now Regen was certainly glad he didn’t have a teacup in his hands, as it would have shattered when it dropped. But Fern spoke up, “Will my response affect the test?”

Serie smiled, “It might,” she replied coyly.

So, Fern took a deep breath, “Then, in that case: I already have a Master. And it is Mistress Frieren,” she replied, taking on a defiant look that Regen recalled seeing on his aunt’s face more often than not. The sight brought a smile to his face.

Serie could see it from where she was, though she did much to hide her own disappointment. “Very well,” she replied before turning back to the pond. “You pass.”

Regen’s smile grew, the first to pass. And he suspected not the last. Fern bowed and left, though not before she cast a worried glance at him. It was because of that that he knew that she was aware that something was wrong. After she left, he spoke up, “I wonder if having a particularly attuned sense of mana is a family thing,” he questioned aloud.

Serie shrugged, “Perhaps. Or perhaps her travels with Frieren have led her to become particularly attuned to Mana.” she replied before looking at him, “I’m more likely to believe the latter as she quickly clocked on to the fact that something was off with you and she likely picked that up having to decipher Frieren’s moods.”

Regen hummed, unsure himself, but it was as good an explanation as any. He didn’t voice it, however, as Denken opened the door and approached them. Curious, Regen thought, so the old lion has some vigour left if he’s imagining how to neutralise me before defending himself from Serie for as long as possible. 

Serie had clearly come to the same conclusion, “Denken the Imperial Mage. I must admit, I had heard many things about you.”

Denken nodded to her, “I am honoured that you even know my name, Lady Serie.”

Serie hummed, “I had hoped to meet a younger, more ambitious version of yourself, as I have no interest in a great fire’s embers. But then I sensed you envisioning how a fight against myself and my colleague would go.”

Denken nodded again, “I did. But only for a moment.”

Serie smirked, “Most mages are too afraid even to fight me in their minds, let alone when I have capable back-up,” she remarked. “You pass.”

Denken sketched a quick, regal bow before departing. Regen, however, looked at Serie, “Capable back-up?” he asked, eyebrow raised.

Serie shrugged, “You may not give much thought to your abilities in a fight, but they are a sight to behold. And I have beheld many sights.”

Regen flushed, unused to Serie of all people offering praise, “Did Lady Frieren vex you so much that it put you in a mood to be nice to me?” he asked, half-joking, half-serious. “We barely exchanged more than a sentence or two in the last decade, and even then, we only discussed the running of the facility here.”

Serie shook her head, “As I said to Frieren, I remember every facet of my apprentices. And I truly do care for all of you as though you are my children,” she replied. “Elves take time to figure out these things, the older, the longer. Even though you’d think that the older we are, the easier it would be for us to figure things out.”

Regen hummed, but quieted down again when the doors revealed Übel. Serie, on the other hand, didn’t even let the mage get close, “You pass.”

If Übel looked surprised, she kept it locked behind her eyes, though she did voice them, “Uhm… I’m fairly certain words are supposed to be used.”

Serie raised an eyebrow, “Do you need your ego boosted? Do you think the outcome would be different?”

Übel shook her head, “No. I know to quit when I’m ahead,” she said before turning and leaving.

Regen just blinked at the bizarre interaction. “Maybe I’ve drunk too much already,” he muttered.

Serie snorted, “Please, that was the weakest Elven Wine I had. You humans can’t handle your drink.”

Now it was Regen’s turn to snort, “We’ll knock back drinks that burn your throat, our drinks affect our mind with the amount consumed.”

Serie rolled her eyes, “And yet, your liquid courage failed Himmel, or perhaps Frieren was far colder than I realised.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, “Did you see the Mirrored Lotus Ring?” he asked.

Serie shook her head, “Frieren doesn’t understand the Language of Flowers. It held no magical purpose, so she didn’t bother.” She replied before rubbing her chin, “Besides, she only just started to wear it. Reports say that her hands were unadorned for the 78 years after the defeat of the Demon King, only starting in the last year or so. About when her group found that priest of theirs before they parted ways.”

Regen furrowed his brow, “I should feel concerned about how you have reports about what was on Frieren’s hands for the last eight decades,” he remarked.

Serie grinned something fierce before the next applicant “entered” the gardens. “Is this a joke?” Serie asked the clone body.

Nearer to the door, Land spoke, “I am present, just in case physical presence was necessary to pass the test.”

Regen rolled his eyes, but Serie answered, “Don’t be ridiculous, you haven’t left your hometown. Not once stepping foot on the training grounds.”

Regen chuckled, “Is that a good cup of tea you’re having?” he asked.

Land, or rather, both of his clones, raised an eyebrow, “Interesting. Not even Übel could sense which was real or fake.”

Regen snorted, “Give the lass some time, she’ll work it out,” he remarked.

Serie, on the other hand, rubbed her chin, “No one has ever been bold enough to take the tests without being present,” she remarked. “You pass.”

That was four now, already a record number. Regen smirked, “We’ve had a bumper crop this year, it would seem. And we’ve still got two left.”

Serie hummed, “So it would seem.” She replied, “When Sense wakes, I will apologise to her. If this was the quality of the mages she faced, it should be no surprise that so few failed her test.”

The door opened again, and in walked the Captain of the Northern Magic Corps, Wirbel. Serie looked at him with curiosity, “Interesting. When you walked in, you immediately rejected the idea of trying to fight us. Why?”

Wirbel smirked, “One does not become Second-Class by taking unwinnable fights, nor do those fools live long.”

Regen nodded, “An accurate assessment. But tell us: what is your favourite magic?”

Wirbel smirked, “Magic is a tool, same as any other. Used for killing, there are no spells to like or hate.”

Serie grinned, “You pass.”

Wirbel nodded to both of them and left. Once he did, Regen thought a moment, “I will admit, I know little about our final applicant. She performed some basic healing in the Ruins and describes herself as a 'jack-of-all-trades' sort.”

Serie hummed, an unusual specializion. Typically, mages found one type of magic and focused on it. Those who generalised themselves were usually unimpressive. And, at first, when Methode entered the garden, Serie was unimpressed at the way she stood stock still. But Regen spoke first. “Tell me, Methode, what do you see when you look at Mistress Serie?”

Methode shook herself slightly and appeared somewhat flustered, “I only thought about how small and very cute Mistress Serie was,” she replied.

Well. That was new. Regen was shocked into silence, and Serie took a moment before speaking, “You pass,” she finally said, still trying to process what the woman had said.

Regen could sense the rush of joy that shot through the woman’s body; it practically radiated from her. But she kept herself composed enough to bow her head and leave without further words. Serie, however, spoke after she had, “This was the strangest crop of mages,” she flatly remarked.

Regen chuckled, “A little eccentricity never hurt any mage,” he replied. “Though… Methode might exceed eccentric.”

Serie rolled her eyes, “I have a feeling she will attempt to mother me,” she muttered.

Regen rubbed his chin, rising to follow Serie, “Perhaps, but I suspect that would only last until she had something else very small and very cute to fuss over.”

Serie turned to him with a grin that Regen would describe as predatory, “So, a baby,” she remarked.

Regen shrugged, “Probably. Do you wish for Sense and I to start playing matchmaker?” he asked.

Serie’s grin grew, “Perhaps, or perhaps you might start on that yourselves. After all, if Flamme was any indication, you humans are singularly focused on reproduction.”

Regen just about choked on air, “Mistress Serie! Are you suggesting that Sense and I should become parents as soon as possible?” he exclaimed.

Serie just smirked. Regen, on the other hand, found himself feeling hopeful for that very idea. He’d have to bring it up with Sense. Later. Much later.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

Copy of the Announcement of the newest First-Class Mages, 79 ADK, 29 Years after the Death of Himmel the Hero.

The faculty of the Continental Magic Association do hereby welcome into the ranks of First-Class Mage the following individuals, after they had exemplified the qualities sought after in our mages in three exams, proctored by First-Class Mage Genau, First-Class Mages Sense and Regen, and Great Mage Serie herself:

Fern, of Boden, Apprenticed to Great Mage Frieren

Übel, of Wille

Land, of Turk

Denken, of Weise

Wirbel, of the North

And Methode, of Strahl

We congratulate those who achieved the highest rank in the Association and look forward to their further achievements in Magic.

We further offer a second chance to those who did not succeed in this lofty goal. It is quite a challenge, one that helps build oneself, and in three years' time, one may yet succeed.

Signed on the 7 ^th  day of the 6 ^th  month, in the 79 ^th  year after the Defeat of the Demon King by:

Great Mage Serie

First-Class Mage Lernen

First-Class Mage Regen

First-Class Mage Sense

First-Class Mage Genau

First-Class Mage Falsch

Chapter Text

Sense slept through the entire day and night, only waking the following morning, and feeling fully better by then. She was both surprised and not at the number of mages who passed Serie’s exam. On the one hand, usually when Serie proctors exams, only one mage passes, if that. On the other hand, this year was a bumper crop and they had many talented mages.

Later that evening, when the new First-Class Mages were getting their initiation and rewards, Sense found herself sitting by a fountain in the plaza. To anyone who looked at her, she would have appeared to be seeking peace and quiet. In truth, she just needed some fresh air, and the fountains were as far as she had gotten. Maybe she wasn’t as recovered as she’d admit.

Some footsteps from her left caught her attention, however, and she soon caught sight of Regen approaching her. “Regen,” she called out, greeting him, “How was it?” she asked.

Regen smirked, “Mistress Serie, I would be willing to bet, is regretting her decision to pass Fern,” he replied before his smirk turned into a grin, “When brought before the ‘Living Grimiore’ and asked to name what spell her heart desired, Fern requested a laundry spell.”

Sense quickly covered her mouth to try and contain her giggles, “A laundry spell?” she asked.

Regen nodded as he sat next to her, “Yes. One that cleans your clothes down to the stitch and puts a floral fragrance on them,” he replied, “There’s a small part of me that wishes I had thought of that. It’s such a practical spell.”

Sense leaned into him and he put an arm around her, “For adventurers,” she replied, “Your laundry is taken care of by the staff here.”

Regen hummed before squeezing her shoulder, “I did pass on a Spell Sheet to Fern with the spell I received all those years ago. Now we’ll be able to keep in touch anywhere in the world.”

Sense hummed, grateful for the warmth of Regen’s body. “Did she tell you where her party was headed?”

Regen frowned, “Ende, at least at first,” he replied, drawing a curious look from Sense. “Apparently, beyond the Demon King’s Castle, lies Aureole. They’re heading there because Lady Frieren has some regrets. Something that Eisen the Dwarf and Heiter the Priest saw at Himmel the Hero’s funeral.”

Sense didn’t quite know what to say to that. What else would you say when someone tells you they’re on their way to the Land Where Souls Rest, and not in some playful way? “Well, with all the threats in the Northern Lands, I may end up dragging you out of the classroom. We may even run into them again,” she remarked.

Regen hummed before he grinned mischievously, “Remember, back in the tomb, when Fern seemed embarrassed by the notion of finding someone to settle down with?” he asked, drawing a nod from Sense. “Well, I believe that she and their warrior, Stark, might be more than friends. At least I hope so, it’d go a way in explaining their reactions to each other.”

Sense hummed, “How did we never notice the signs?” she murmured.

Regen rubbed her arm, “Combination of not believing ourselves worthy and thinking we were misinterpreting them, most likely,” he replied before pressing a kiss to her forehead, “But, we got there in the end.”

Sense smiled, but before she could agree, Regen spoke again, “Oh! Mistress Serie wishes to see the pair of us tomorrow morning. Something about Association Business.”

Sense raised an eyebrow. Typically, she was in the know about all Association business. It was her job, after all. This she had no information about.

Her confusion lasted throughout the morning. Even when she and Regen were sitting in the same room they had been in a few days before when Mistress Serie had announced her intention to proctor the Third Exam, she still didn’t know anything.

The door suddenly opened, admitting Serie, along with Lernen and Falsch. “Apologies for the wait,” Lernen said by way of greeting. “Mistress Serie was adamant that she was to avoid Lady Methode.”

Serie didn’t say anything to that, though her face contorted in a way that made Regen suddenly remember what they had talked about after the Final Exam. However, when they all took their seats, it was Serie who spoke first. “Lernen brought something to my attention which, on further reflection, terrifies me,” she said, guaranteeing that everyone was paying attention. She then looked at Regen, “Since you’ve started teaching here, you’ve made a total of twenty-one Golden Strahls and four Silver, correct?”

Regen thought for a moment, “That sounds about right,” he mused. “Why?”

Serie frowned, “If you were any other mage, you would be due an additional one thousand and thirty-one Golden Strahls, three Silver and forty Copper.” she said, causing Regen’s eyes to widen, “But, because you are a First-Class Mage, you are actually due an additional ten thousand three hundred and thirteen Golden Strahls and four Silver ones.”

Regen was very glad that he was already sitting down when Serie said that. A family of four could live off of ten Golden Strahls for a year rather comfortably. He was due ten thousand. When he realised that everyone was looking at him, he cleared his throat, “Well… that changes a few things,” he remarked. “I had intended to take on some extra work after I paid for Fern’s staff repair. But, from the sounds of it, I could retire and never work again and still live quite comfortably.”

Serie smirked, “You could. But you’d get rather bored quickly,” she replied, drawing a hum from Regen. “On the other hand, you are a well-respected and liked teacher, I will allow you to teach, at most, one class a month. Then, as we ensure you receive your due compensation, you’ll receive your back pay. And, as I’d like to pay off our debts as soon as possible, every month you’ll receive eighty-six of the Golden Strahls you’re due.”

Regen nodded; his workload had started to become untenable. Then Lernen spoke up, “We’ve also begun an investigation to determine who and how you were being short-changed, but our list is long,” he said, turning somewhat mournful, “It may be years before we have an answer to all our questions.”

Regen was about to nod, he had made a few enemies, many of whom wouldn’t mind him being in poverty, when Serie spoke, “That is unacceptable to me.” she stated, drawing everyone’s attention, “What I want to do is to bring every one of our suspects together and then I question them.”

Regen was about to ask why she was taking such an interest in the matter when he saw Falsch shake his head slightly, telling him not to question it. Though Regen would resolve to question him after it was all over. Aloud, he merely nodded, “Very well. What would you have me do? Other than pull back on the number of classes I teach?”

Serie leaned on one of her shoulders, “For now? Nothing. Just carry on as you are being a loved teacher and being Sense’s lover,” she replied, causing the pair to blush, “And maybe consider starting on the whole reproduction thing. It’d get Methode off my back.”

Now the pair wanted to melt into the floor and hide forever. It didn’t help when Falsch and Lernen started chuckling at their expressions. But, despite it all, everything was starting to look up. Though they would have done well to remember the old truth:

What goes up must come down.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

Letters from First-Class Mage Fern to First-Class Mages Regen and Sense and their replies.

Dear Cousin,

It feels strange having someone to write to, especially after all this time, when I've effectively been on my own or travelling with my whole world. I suppose I should start with the basics.

After the bandit attacks that ruined Boden, an old priest found me and took me in. At first, I was just desperate to latch onto an adult. But I eventually grew to view him as a parental figure. I eventually learnt that he was Heiter, the Priest of the Heroes Party. He never did fully explain his reasoning behind taking me in, always going on about “that’s what he would have done” without explaining who “he” was.

A few years into his guardianship of me, Mistress Frieren came to visit, under the assumption that Mister Heiter had already passed on. Mister Heiter then tricked (yes, TRICKED ) Mistress Frieren into training me while she deciphered a Grimiore, which she was led to believe contained secrets pertaining to extending one’s life. When she completed her work a few years after she had arrived, she called me a “proper mage” which Mister Heiter took to mean that I wouldn’t get in her way and so her objection to taking me on as an apprentice was meaningless.

Mister Heiter passed that night.

And thus began the six years that I spent travelling alongside Mistress Frieren in her quest to gather spells of strange uses (seriously, one spell she accepted as a reward turned grapes sour). Until we met with Mister Eisen. He led us to finding the real notes of the Legendary Mage Flamme. There, we got a new purpose: go to Aureole so that Mistress Frieren might speak with Mister Himmel and lay to rest some of her regrets.

We’ve had a few adventures along the way and picked up Mister Stark and Mister Sein (he’s a priest we met and parted ways with for a while; I hope we can meet up with him again).

Well, this is getting rather long, and I’m sure you’ve more important matters to attend to. So, I’ll ask you a question: When did you figure out you loved Mistress Sense?

Give Mistress Sense my regards!

Your Cousin,

Fern

My Dear Cousin Fern,

Thank you for the letter; it provided a much-needed boost after the last few days. I hope you don’t mind, but Sense has been reading your letter to me alongside me and has decided to make this a joint letter. -R

Hello, Fern. I hope you are doing well. Regen is understating things. Your letter was greatly appreciated after the news we received the day after your conferment. -S

So, the famed Heiter the Priest raised you? That must have been an experience. However, you said something in the tomb that has haunted my mind ever since. You said “I trained tirelessly to become a full-fledged mage to repay the man who saved me.” I can only assume that you meant Heiter, so I ask that when you are ready, please share that story in full with us. -R

If you’d like, we could do so when we meet in person again. I’ve convinced Regen to step outside of the classroom, so it’s highly likely that we’ll run into you and your party again. -S

Well, it’s less that Sense has convinced me, and more that Mistress Serie has forbidden me from taking my usual class load because of the news we got. You see, I had thought that my yearly pay of 24 Silver Strahls was normal and expected. I received Room and Board for free, and I could also get food from the staff canteen whenever I wanted. I only ever spent my money on Sense’s birthdays (Sense’s glaring at me as I write this) and so never thought to raise a complaint. As it turns out, I should have been raising all hells about it as Mistress Serie has informed me that, because I was shorted pay, I am due over 10.000 Golden Strahls. -R

No, that is not a mistake. He really is owed that much. -S

Yes, and apparently, according to Falsch (he was the one who brought you in for the Final Exam), Mistress Serie was so pissed off when she found out that she was ready to kill the one who did it and put their head on a spike. No, I am not exaggerating his words. As someone who is around an Elf all day every day, I’m sure you can imagine the lengths I went to in order to envisage Mistress Serie so enraged. -R

As someone who likes to believe that they have seen every mood under the sun that Mistress Serie can encompass, I too struggled to imagine such. -S

I hope that this will be the start of a flurry of letters between us (Sense does too), so I’ll close with an answer to the question at the end of your letter. When did I realise that I loved Sense? A surprisingly difficult answer to find. We met when we were four, so I doubt there were any romantic feelings then, although we were always closer to each other than our other friends. I imagine that the true start to when I fell in love was after puberty hit, after all, most boys don’t understand that girls are nice to be around until then (then again, some boys take a few years to figure that one out) but, as Sense is reminding me, we weren’t like most children. Ah! I imagine that the First-Class Mage Exams we took were the cause (I’ll have to tell you more about them in another letter), as Sense and I shared a tent together while travelling between the tests. And, as our second test was similar to yours, we ventured through the dungeon together (and were the only ones to pass, might I add!) -R

Hope to see you in person soon!

Our love, as always,

Regen and Sense

Chapter Text

Regen smiled as he walked through the halls of the Äußerst facility with Sense looping her arm through his. They fell into a routine soon after the First-Class Mage Exams finished: they’d wake in either his or her quarters, have a quiet breakfast in those quarters before wandering through the halls and gardens. Then Regen would head to finish out the month’s classes he had already started. The following month, he would only teach one class, and there was some debate on whether he should teach one of the classes he was currently teaching or take Sense’s suggestion and teach a conjuration class. He was leaning towards the former, while Sense and, surprisingly, Serie herself were advocating for the latter. It was a similar day today, though he did not have any classes scheduled, almost a full week after the ceremonies at the end of the exams, when shouts could be heard from further down the hall: “… You couldn’t even make it past an exam where a dozen others could! Even your girlfriend managed!”

The sheer disgust that emanated from the single word on the relationship instantly told both Sense and Regen that the targets of this harassment were Kanne and Lawine, or at the very least Lawine. They didn’t even look at each other, knowing full well that they had each other’s backs, as they rushed towards the sound, Regen summoning his staff to his hand to lay down the law as needed. What concerned both of them, however, were two things. The first being that neither Lawine nor Kanne, if she were present, was offering even a token of resistance. And the second was that they still had not yet reached the outburst, despite their near sprint. When they finally did, Regen wasn’t surprised to see Kanne behind Lawine with her eyes shut. Lawine herself appeared stoic, but Regen could see the tears that threatened to fall. However, when one of their five assailants made to summon their own staff, Regen and Sense finally got into range to strike.

And strike they did. Sense grabbed the four on the sides by the ankles with her hair and yanked them down. Regen swung his staff at the middle one and bowled them over. There were almighty thuds and loud cracks heard. Regen was unsure if they had broken ankles or bones, but was unable to find it within himself to care. The aggressors had a split second of fury on their faces before going white with terror. Especially the leader of the group, with Regen’s staff in his face and knees still smarting from the impact.

Regen sneered at the group, but cast concerned eyes at Lawine and Kanne. Close enough now to see the trembling lips and fear on the pair’s faces, though it was less apparent on Lawine’s. He wanted nothing more than to cast the original Zoltraak on these sorry excuses for mages, but he took a deep breath and steadied himself, “Kanne. Lawine. Come with me.” he ordered before glancing to Sense, “Would you be willing to take out the trash, my dear?” he asked.

Sense nodded, “With pleasure,” she said, her voice devoid of its usual neutrality. Instead, Sense allowed some of her glee at being the one to deal with them to leak through. And if there was one thing that the students at the Äußerst facility knew, it was that when Lady Sense started using emotion in her voice, you had better hope that she was in a good mood.

Regen grinned. He had often seen the aftermath of when she used this voice, and it wasn’t pretty for those who wronged her. Turning to the two young girls, he gestured for them to follow him and led them in the direction of his office. Once they got away from the group, he looked at them both, “Are you two alright?” he asked quietly.

Lawine had wrapped her arms around Kanne; however, neither of them answered. That sealed his opinion, and instead of taking them to his office, he walked a little further and brought them to his living quarters. He guided them to the couch whilst he brought a tea set out and placed cups in their hands. They quietly drank for a little bit before Regen pressed the matter, “Were either of you physically hurt?” he asked, gently but firmly.

Lawine finally spoke, “N-no, Master Regen,” she stammered out.

Kanne seemed to burrow further into Lawine, who just held the girl tightly. It actually brought a ghost of a smile to Regen’s lips. He then leaned forward to offer quiet counsel, “Sometimes people lash out at those they perceive to be different. It could be for a multitude of reasons, but the most prevalent ones I’ve seen in my years are because they are either scared or angry.”

Kanne looked up, “Why would they be scared?” she quietly asked.

Regen smiled kindly at them, “Because you both took the First-Class Mage exams and survived. That is more than a third of the applicants could say and so speaks to your power.” he replied, “Remember what I said that day at the Swallow Inn, when you two were visiting with Mistress Frieren and Lady Fern: If you make it through most of the Second Test or fail at the Third Test, take the exams again when they come around.”

Kanne’s lips twitched, though Lawine still looked downtrodden. So Regen reached out and squeezed her hand, “Trust me. You’ll be ready.”

Lawine sighed, “I’m not so sure,” she mumbled, “My family doubts me now. There’s no way I’ll be able to take the exams again.”

Regen frowned, a thought crossing his mind, one that he and Sense had been discussing for a few months now behind his office’s doors. But before he could voice it, Kanne spoke up, “Master Regen? Why are you looking after us?” she asked.

Regen leaned back, but before Kanne could stammer out anything else, he huffed, “Because Mistress Serie frowns on us instructors killing students,” he replied before chuckling, “Well… Sense will only beat them to a pulp and make them regret their decisions. And besides, you two needed the space from the rest of the world.”

Kanne and Lawine looked at each other doubtfully, but before they could speak, the doors opened, admitting Sense to the room, flexing her hand as if she had done some injury to it. “Sense? Didn’t I always say to let the stones do the talking?” Regen asked, somewhat amused, as he rose to meet her.

Sense huffed, “I grew bored,” she stated before allowing Regen to take her hand and kiss the affected knuckles. The pain dissipating soon thereafter.

Regen smirked, “Boredom: the worst enemy of mages from all corners of the world,” he remarked, almost laughing.

That got a chuckle out of all of the girls, which led Regen to level a look at Sense, one she understood. They had been discussing the pair for months. And now it seemed that he agreed with her. By way of opening the topic, Sense sat in an armchair beside the one that Regen had taken and asked a simple question of the girls, “What do you two plan to do for the foreseeable future?”

Kanne grunted, “Dunno, probably take more classes to try and prepare for the next exams,” she replied.

Lawine, on the other hand, just looked down, “I don’t know what my family will have me do,” she muttered dejectedly.

Here, Regen rubbed his chin as if pondering their words. “Hmm… I’m not sure that traditional lessons would serve either of you well,” he remarked. “The classroom can only do so much to prepare you.”

Sense hummed, “An apprenticeship might serve you both better,” she mentioned.

Kanne hummed, but Lawine just looked even more dejected, “And what mage would even want to be associated with a failure like me?” she muttered.

Regen frowned, sure, Lawine was usually the more serious of the pair, but this was extreme, even for her. “I can think of three mages who would jump at the opportunity to mentor one or both of you.” he said, drawing her attention, “Depending on whether or not Laufen is his apprentice, or if he is just taking the role of grandfather that he never got the chance to, Denken would be willing, I am sure.”

Lawine didn’t look convinced, but Sense stepped in, “But regardless of that, we would be willing to take you two on.”

That got both of their attentions, though Lawine looked somewhere between hopeful and apprehensive. Regen, on the other hand, just nodded, “Yes, Sense and I have been talking about this for a few months now. Actually, since the new year. We just didn’t say anything at the time because you then signed up for the Exams and we were hopeful.”

Lawine’s lips twitched; it would have been an understatement to say that she had also been hopeful. And Sense confirmed that she would take on Kanne. Then Regen looked at her, “So, what do you girls say? Would you two like to learn from us personally?”

Kanne nodded, but Lawine had a question, “Forgive me, Master Regen, but won’t it be a bit much to teach all of your classes and me?”

Regen’s lips twitched, and Sense looked at him with a look of amusement. “Ah, you haven’t been told yet,” he remarked, leaning back in his armchair. “Mistress Serie has limited the number of classes I can teach a month to one because I was burning the wick at both ends. And someone was cheating me out of most of my paycheck.”

That surprised both of the girls, but Regen continued, “If I took on an apprentice, on the other hand, I could teach as much as I wanted and get out of Äußerst for the first time in the last decade.”

Lawine bowed her head, “Then, I am honoured that you would consider me a worthy apprentice.”

Regen smirked, Serie would never admit it beyond her inner circle, but she was impressed by the duo’s teamwork. Especially in the First Test, even if the plan was conceived by Frieren. “Well, I suppose we’d better go inform Mistress Serie that I won’t be teaching any classes starting next month.”

Sense nodded, and both of the First-Class Mages got a chuckle at the sheer terror the girls showed at the idea of facing Serie. In the years to come, all involved would agree that this was the start of something amazing, but in the here and now, Lawine and especially Kanne were terrified of facing the Great Mage. Not unlike most First-Class Mages, when they first meet her outside of the Confirment Ceremony.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

Memorandum from Great Mage Serie on the status of First-Class Mages Regen and Sense, 29 years after the Death of Himmel the Hero, two weeks after the completion of the First-Class Mage Exams.

To all Continental Magic Association members:

It pleases me to announce that First-Class Mages Regen (Acknowledged Master of Potions and Poisons) and Sense (My own Personal Aide) have finally decided to take on Apprentices. The Mage Kanne has chosen to be apprenticed to Lady Sense, while the Mage Lawine has chosen Master Regen as her mentor.

Both of these Mages took the First-Class Mage Exam, and while they did not complete it, they got far in it. Both made it to the Second Test, where the Mage Lawine only failed because a Spiegel Clone of both Lady Sense and Master Regen took her and a few other Mages out of the exam. The Mage Kanne was personally interviewed by me for the Third Test and was only lacking in imagination.

It is my opinion that, should they decide to take the exams in three years, they will achieve the rank and privileges.

I urge everyone who encounters the pair, with or without their masters, to treat them with the utmost respect.

Great Mage Serie, 21 ^st  day of the 6 ^th  month of the 79 ^th  year after the Defeat of the Demon King.

Chapter Text

“There are three things that any mage must plan for,” Regen said as he continued to hack a way through the brush in the forests outside of Äußerst. “The Depletion of your Mana and the day-to-day survival are significant, as if your enemy exploits a moment of weakness or you fail to prepare enough food or water, you are as good as dead, regardless of how many spells you know.”

Lawine ducked under a branch as she followed him, “And the third, Master?” she asked.

Regen smirked, “Never make assumptions,” he replied as they came to a clearing. “Areas you may think are clear, or people you think are harmless, may be fraught with danger,” he said, lingering in the brush. “What do you see?”

Lawine frowned; it was your average clearing. But, with what he had just said, she stretched out her mana to see if she could find anything. “There’s a lot of mana here,” she murmured. “It’s residual, though.”

Regen smirked, “Good, most mages wouldn’t give a second thought to an open clearing. Nor would they even pick up on the residual mana,” he remarked, “Does it feel familiar?”

Lawine nodded, “It does, but I can’t place where…” she muttered.

Regen patted her shoulder, “I wouldn’t expect you to. Family can sense family’s mana, which is what drew me to this location,” he replied. “This was where Fern and Ehre battled in the First Test.”

Lawine looked at her master with a startled look on her face, “But… there’s so much Mana here now!” she exclaimed.

Regen chuckled, “This didn’t used to be a valley,” he replied as he took them into the clearing. “According to Ehre, she was knocked unconscious by basic offensive magic,” he said.

Lawine’s eyes widened, and Regen continued, “Do not fear the Mage who knows ten thousand spells, fear the Mage who has practised one spell ten thousand times,” he said as he started unpacking his backpack. “Especially when that Mage can trace their instruction through Frieren the Slayer and the Legendary Mage Flamme to the Great Mage Serie,” he said before looking up at her, “I am forever grateful that no one other than Methode faced Fern’s Spiegel Clone. A Jack-of-all-trades can be a specialist’s worst enemy, but I wouldn’t count on it.”

Lawine hummed, but before she could say anything, rustling drew their attention, though Regen remained crouched on the ground. “Did you find something?” he called out.

Sense emerged from the brush, “We did,” she replied, “Dinner.”

Behind her, Kanne was levitating a dead boar. Regen smiled, “So you did. And the viscera will be useful for our mission.”

Kanne dropped the boar next to him as he pulled out his dressing kit. “You haven’t actually told us what we’re here for,” she remarked.

Regen blinked, “I haven’t?” he murmured. He received a nod from Lawine, and he looked a little surprised, “Huh… I’ve got to shake the rust off,” he muttered before shaking his head and plunging his knife into the boar. “Well, Mistress Serie got word that there’s an infestation of Geisel in these woods. Estimates put the herd at ten beasts. Our job is to bring that number to zero.”

Kanne dropped her staff when she heard that. She had not forgotten what had happened in the First Test. Luckily, Regen continued, “Now, in the aftermath of the First Test, Master Lernen, Lady Sense, and I killed five, and we were informed that Mistress Frieren had killed one. So, our best intelligence puts the remaining herd at four,” he said as he opened the boar’s gullet and started pulling out guts. “I understand Mistress Frieren did so for your sakes,” he continued, question in the air.

Lawine looked over at Kanne, who was rather pale, but forced herself to nod. The memory was still fresh in her mind as if it had happened that night. “I got up in the middle of the night and was investigating a noise when one came upon me. Mistress Frieren saved my life.”

Regen hummed as he continued his work. “There are generally two things that can attract them: carcasses and Mages,” he remarked before looking at the girls, “Sense and I have… difficulty in this regard as we have been suppressing our mana so much that it has become second nature to us. Though we can turn this to our advantage as they wouldn’t normally attack a group that would be more powerful than them.”

Kanne yelped, “You mean we’re bait!” she exclaimed.

Regen shook his head and wiped his hands on a rag, “No. The carcass of the boar you found is the bait. We are the executioners. Nothing more,” he said before standing and walking over to the pair of young mages. “I have faith that you both could handle this yourselves. Sense and I are here to ensure that happens by ensuring that you two are not alone.”

Kanne started to shake, enough that Lawine wrapped her arms around her, “Kanne. Your fear is natural, having faced the Spectre of Death in their visage. But you cannot allow yourself to become frozen in that fear.” Sense said, drawing the girls' attention. “You must face your fear and pluck your courage.”

Kanne’s lips trembled, “But can someone be brave when they’re afraid?” she whispered.

Lawine squeezed her shoulder, but Regen spoke up, “That, my dear, is when one is at their bravest,” he said, placing a hand on her cheek. “To surrender to fear is to die. But to face your fear, even if you turn away and run, is the mark of bravery.”

Sense saw the effect that Regen’s words were having; the girls started to breathe normally, and they no longer looked as pale as sheets. She added her own twist as well, “Besides, do you think us to have no fear?” she asked, drawing raised eyebrows from the girls and a look of exasperation from Regen, “After all, when Regen and I first went through a dungeon, he jumped at every shadow and noise.”

Kanne tried to contain a giggle while Lawine’s eyes widened. Regen, on the other hand, rolled his eyes. “Very funny, Sense,” he replied, “As I recall, you leapt into my arms more than once and spent a week holding me tight after we finished the raid.”

Sense smirked, “I don’t deny that. But you had spent the entire walk to the Halls of Balor boasting that you wouldn’t be scared by anything. I didn’t.”

Regen blushed a bright red at that, and this time, neither Kanne nor Lawine could withhold their giggles. “True. However, that raid taught me a lot. Like how every mage should be able to fall back onto their fists, should their Mana run low.”

Sense just giggled and kissed Regen’s cheek. “Admit it, it had nothing to do with being low on Mana, you just wanted to punch Nervig in the face,” she replied.

Regen pouted, “He called you a poor excuse of a Mage! What was I supposed to do?”

This earned him a kiss on the lips, “Ah, my knight in shining armour, even all those years ago.”

Lawine smiled, tension forgotten, “I’ve been wondering if you two were always this romantic to each other,” she remarked.

Regen chuckled as he wrapped an arm around Sense, “Aye, when I wrote to her family a few weeks ago to ask for their blessing to court Sense, the prevalent reaction I received was “You weren’t already?” and I had to explain that we weren’t consciously courting.”

Sense just laughed, “Father still isn’t convinced, by the way. He still says that you’ve had his blessing for the last twenty years.”

Regen smirked, then grew serious. Putting a finger to his lips, he shut his eyes a moment before holding up three fingers. Sense understood immediately: Three Geisels nearby. That would only leave one left. Drawing their staves, the four prepared for battle.

Kanne and Lawine would stick together as long as they could, but without the element of surprise, Sorganeil would be worthless, even if any of them were skilled or knowledgeable enough to cast it. Things only became worse when the fourth Geisel appeared and separated the girls from each other. Regen could only focus on the one in front of him as he danced between claws and tried his best to kill the beast. Finally, he landed a decisive blow, but before he could render aid to whichever person needed it, he heard Lawine cry out, “KANNE!”

Turning to face the cry, he saw Lawine rush through the air towards Kanne, who was on the ground and without her staff. Just as he was about to cast something, anything, Lawine bisected the creature from tail to beak. Seeing that the situation was in hand, he cast his eyes around and took note of the other corpse before seeing Sense finish off the last one. A nod passed between them, partly to acknowledge the situation and partly to ensure that they were truly unharmed. Then they looked over to the girls. Lawine, covered in the beast’s blood and guts, was holding Kanne tightly; the only reason it didn’t send either of the older Mages into a panic was that Kanne was returning the embrace just as fiercely. “Lawine!” Regen called out, causing the girls to separate slightly, “Perhaps you two should clean up? You’re completely covered in blood and guts, Kanne, I’m sure, is getting covered because of you.”

Both Sense and Regen were sure that Lawine was blushing; it was just difficult to tell, but they nodded, “Don’t take too long!” Sense called out, “We’ll eat soon enough!”

The girls quickly left after that, and Sense looked at Regen with a grin on her face, “A Silver says they’re a couple by the time they return,” she said.

Regen chuckled, “I’ll see that bet,” he said, “It’s part of the reason why I sent them. If this doesn’t get them together, we’ll have to intervene more directly and less subtly.”

Sense giggled and kissed his cheek, then they started work on dinner. It didn’t take long for a pot of stew to begin cooking on the fire; there was more than enough boar meat to fill the pot. Regen carefully prepared the hide; it would fetch a reasonable price back in town, while Sense watched over the pot. It was quite some time before Kanne and Lawine returned, but when they did, it was hand in hand. Regen smiled at the pair as he tossed a coin to Sense. “Welcome back, you two. I didn’t say so earlier, but good work today.”

Kanne looked somewhat conflicted, but Lawine smiled. “Thank you, Master,” she replied, before she and Kanne took a seat by the fire. “What was that coin about? If I may ask.”

Regen smirked, and Sense answered, “A little bet between your Master and I,” she replied. “About whether or not you two would confront that which Regen and I had to confront ourselves, but had been blind to for almost two decades.”

Both girls were now blushing quite heavily, “Yes…” Lawine said, almost reluctant to go into details, “It may have taken nearly losing Kanne, but I was finally able to admit that I cared for her as more than a friend. And, thank the Goddess, she did as well.”

Regen chuckled, “I’m sure it had nothing at all to do with the bath and washing of clothes before they became ruined. Nothing at all.”

Both Kanne and Lawine turned redder and refused to look anyone in the eye. Sense just smiled, “Regen, be nice,” she scolded, though the sparkle in her eyes and voice lessened the effect. Not even Regen giving the timeworn response that any husband would give to their wife sounded all that serious.

They would eat and tell stories all night until each of them shut their eyes and drifted off to sleep. Regen was the last to do so, and he could only wonder at how he had gotten so lucky.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

A letter from First-Class Mage Sense to her family and their response, on the 7th and 10th days of the 7th month, 79 ADK .

Dear Mother and Father,

I do hope this finds you well. I am doing well, especially now that Regen and I are officially courting. We’ve also taken on a pair of girls as apprentices. If you recall, I mentioned a pair named Kanne and Lawine in some of my previous letters. Those two are the ones we’ve taken on. They did well in the First-Class Mage Exams last month, only failing when ambushed by a Spiegel Clone of both myself and Regen in Lawine’s case and when Mistress Serie interviewed her in Kanne’s. They’ve quickly adjusted to the lifestyle of apprentices, and I think that they will succeed in three years when the Exams roll around again.

As for myself and Regen, we’re doing well. I doubt you want details, even though we’re still proceeding innocently through our courtship. I will, however, mention that Mistress Serie, on the day that she found out about us, the day after we officially started courting, she made a remark to Regen about how we should become parents soon.

Poor Regen, I don’t think he had any blood left in the rest of his body as he told me about that. And, to be completely honest, it’s not an idea that is entirely new to us.

That’s not to say that I am or will be soon taking to bed with such a goal in mind. We just… there’s an argument that our colleagues are making that we’ve been courting, however unofficially, for the last fifteen years. So what is fast to our eyes is painfully slow in theirs. Which, considering one person making this argument is Mistress Serie, is saying something!

Give my love to the rest of the family.

Your dutiful daughter,

Sense

Dearest Sense,

I thought it would be a good idea to write this letter back instead of your mother, seeing as though she’s still going on about “her baby is all grown-up” and such.

Those girls you mentioned, your apprentices, how are they doing? I recall that in your previous letter, you mentioned that you and Regen were debating the best way to get them together. Have you figured it out? How are they when it comes to your personal life? I imagine that you and Regen want some personal time, and yet you’ve essentially taken on a pair of teenage daughters.

Speaking of Regen and your personal life (don’t worry, I’m not asking for details), you do know that as a grown woman, you can do as you very well please? I’m honestly impressed that with the two of you having been so close for the last twenty-five years, you are not more eager in… conducting the activities that a pair who have been courting for so long (yes I know you have been only officially courting for the last month, but I swear it’s been longer). I’m sure you know how much it pained me to write that.

Regen has been the exception to almost everything I ever thought. I never thought that there would come a man worthy of you until I watched the two of you grow up. And to think, that was all time that both of you felt that you weren’t courting.

My dear, I am glad to think that you are well taken care of by a man who not only thinks the world of you but is quite willing to give everything he has to make you happy. If your old man might give you some advice? Courting is for figuring out if you two would make a good couple. You both already know that answer. If you wish to carry on with some semblance of tradition, “court” for a year, then find a priest. If your mother and I cannot make it until after your wedding, then that is alright. And, if you make me a grandfather soon thereafter, well, your mother and I will be delighted to spoil them rotten.

Love, as always,

Your father

P.S.: I suspect we might see each other soon. I just got a request for my services from Äußerst. It would seem that your Mistress needs my investigative skills. Is there anything you can tell me about that? If so, please meet us all at the gates.

Chapter Text

Regen sighed as he took off his cloak and shook it as dry as he could as rain pelted down outside. “I’m a decent conjuration Mage. Why didn’t I think to conjure an umbrella?” he moaned.

Sense smirked from beside him. She was relatively dry, having been under his cloak as they had rushed to the hall as soon as the rain started coming down. It hadn’t begun softly either; it started out pouring buckets outside and was only getting worse. “Your brain was still about two minutes behind,” she replied.

Regen chuckled. In a way, perhaps, the rain was a good thing. They were getting a little… heated. It wouldn’t have been good if one of the students, or, heaven forbid, one of their apprentices, found them in a state of undress. Before he could say anything, however, a voice spoke up, “Regen. I was hoping to catch up to you.” Serie said.

Both Regen and Sense spun to face her, “Mistress Serie,” Regen greeted, “How may I be of service?”

Serie approached them with an expression that neither Mage had seen on the Elf’s face before. It almost looked mournful, maybe regretful. “I understand you recently got into the hobby of painting,” she replied.

Regen hummed, “Aye, I wanted something to do when it was quiet, now that I don’t have half a dozen classes to attend to,” he explained, “It’s rather calming.”

Serie hummed and nodded, “Then I would like to make a strange commission: I’d like to work with you to produce a portrait of my first apprentice, Flamme.”

Regen would have gasped, but his lungs rebelled against the sudden intake of air, and he started coughing. Once he regained control over himself, he bowed his head to Serie, “Forgive me, I was rather surprised that you would come to a hobbyist to paint a portrait of a figure of legend who has been in Aureole for a thousand years, whom you were close to.”

Serie waved him off, “On the contrary, you are one of the three people whom I would trust with such a task. The others being Sense and Lernen, though neither show a current interest in such a hobby.”

Sense hummed, her hands were too unsteady for the careful control that was needed. She suspected that her past was the reason for that. Regen, however, nodded, “Then, I look forward to working with you to capture Lady Flamme’s essence on canvas. I doubt that any of the current statues or such are good enough reference material.”

Serie frowned, “Very much so,” she grumbled. Shaking her head, she nodded to the both of them before turning to depart, “I will arrive at your chambers tomorrow after the first meal to begin. Please be decent.”

Regen blushed, and Sense looked anywhere that wasn’t Serie. That was quite on the nose after what they had just been doing before the rains came in. Thankfully, there weren’t any other distractions, and so they were able to effect a retreat to his quarters for the night. And for other reasons.

Regen and Sense were awake and decent a few hours before Serie would arrive. When she did, Regen was sitting at a table with a pad of paper in front of him, though he stood as soon as the Elf entered, “Mistress Serie,” he greeted, bowing his head. “I admit to being curious as to how you will describe Mistress Flamme to me so that I may capture her visage.”

Serie hummed as she took a seat beside him, “I intend to use a spell to transfer to you a memory of Flamme. I don’t know which memory it will use, but as long as I focus on Flamme herself, any of them should do.”

Regen nodded and gestured to her. Quietly, Serie whispered the spell: “Erinnerung.”

Regen was instantly transported to a memory from a thousand years ago…

“Frieren.” Serie said from her throne, “Please leave your Master and I. I should like to speak with my pupil in private.”

A younger Frieren nodded, rose from her knees, and left the room. The older human woman, Flamme, Regen realised, cocked an eyebrow to Serie, “You doubt me.” she stated.

Serie shook her head, “I do not doubt your pride in your student. I merely worry that you have placed upon her shoulders a burden that she will not be able to face.”

Flamme shook her head, “I know that she will find companions, or rather that her companions will find her, and it will be an unlikely team, but they will  defeat the Demon King once and for all. Because we cannot, my Master.”

Serie hummed before standing up, “Flamme.” She began, a look of hesitation appearing for a moment, “Should I train a thousand apprentices, none shall ever match you. You might not reach the heights I envisioned for you, but I am proud of you.”

Flamme’s lips quirked upwards, but the pair embraced, with the much taller Flamme patting Serie’s head.

Regen jolted back to the present with force. Sense and Serie had been looking at him with some concern when he came to. Once he had settled and had a cup of tea in his hands, he looked Serie dead in the eyes, “You told Flamme. You do see your apprentices as your children.”

Recognition flashed in Serie’s eyes, “Flamme had brought Frieren before me,” she remarked before turning melancholic, “That was the last time I saw Flamme alive.”

Regen’s eyes started to water slightly, a thought coming to his mind: no mother wishes to bury their child, and this one has buried hundreds. Regen couldn’t help the question that came to mind: “How many apprentices did Flamme have?” he asked.

Serie frowned, “Two, by technicality,” she said to their raised eyebrows, “Frieren was her only official apprentice, but she taught her daughter everything she knew.”

Sense and Regen looked at each other. “None of the histories mention that Flamme had a child.” Sense remarked.

Serie’s lips twitched, “There were two reasons we kept her secret: Imagine the leverage that someone could have over the most powerful Mage in the world if you threatened her daughter.”

Sense hummed, that made an incredible amount of sense. Regen leaned forward, though, “And the second reason?”

Serie snorted, “Flamme got drunk and bedded a man who left in the morning before she woke up, never saw him again.”

Both Sense and Regen looked surprised, but Regen quickly remembered what Serie told him at the end of the First-Class Mage Exam: “Somehow, I think your perception of human reproductive habits got skewed by an outlier,” he remarked.

Serie waved him off, “That matters little,” she replied before standing. “Sense, could you join me? I have some business to take care of that will require your attention.”

Sense nodded and pecked Regen’s cheek before departing with her. Regen just shrugged to himself and started on a sketch he’d use for reference when he moved over to canvas. He would still be sitting at the table, hunched over the paper, when Sense returned a few hours later, with someone in tow. “Lady Kelle!” he said, launching to his feet, though to the protest of his back, “I should have gotten up a few hours ago…”

Kelle smiled and embraced Regen, “It’s good to see you, Regen. And after such good news! I’m so glad you two finally figured it out!”

Sense turned a bright red, “Mother…” she groaned.

Kelle smiled as she rubbed Sense’s head, “At least it’s me giving you a hard time about it. Your dear sister couldn’t contain her excitement. To say nothing of her children.”

Regen chuckled, memories of a trio of children running up to him while calling him “Uncle” coming to the forefront. “I’m surprised they weren’t confused, given that no matter how many times we told them otherwise, they always called me “Uncle Regen”.”

Kelle smirked, “Well, Libelle has reached the age now where boys are interesting,” she replied, drawing an understanding hum from Regen. Then, she sat on the sofa while Regen took an armchair and Sense, feeling bold in the presence of her mother, chose his lap. “Well… I want to hear how it happened!” she said.

Regen and Sense smiled and looked at each other, then they launched into an explanation of the Second Test. Kelle smiled as they spoke of Fern and of the descent into the tomb, then laughed hard when Regen admitted to getting so focused on the task at hand that he completely forgot that Sense was sitting right behind him. Regen could only smile, though. This was the life he wanted. And it was in his hands. Well… Sense was in his hands right now, but it was good enough for him.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

Report from Inspector Weizen to Great Mage Serie, 20 ^th  day of the 7 ^th  month, 79 ADK.

Report #1 - Regen Money Case

Lady Serie, I have gone over the evidence you and your staff have provided. I have also made inquiries at the Central Bank and received their evidence. The Expenditure Report with the Paymaster’s signature on it is genuine; however, the Order of Pay given to and received by the Central Bank is a forgery. I have attached a sample OoP from the 5 ^th  month of 71 ADK and have indicated the sections that proved suspect enough to identify the OoP as a fake.

I have since conferred with the Officers of the Bank who, on learning my purpose, gave me access to the handwriting samples of all their employees. I have since come to the conclusion that the Bank is less suspect than the Mages of the Äußerst Facility. Certain members of the Bank’s Staff had some similarities to certain OoPs’ discrepancies; however, none are conclusive. I request handwriting samples from every Mage at the Äußerst Facility to narrow the list down further. I suggest it to be done by way of signatures for something.

I have also taken the initiative to begin investigating where the referenced gold went. It is my hope that the gold may be recovered. I can confirm that the Expenditure Report is accurate, the gold was spent, but it wasn’t spent on what it was supposed to be.

End Report (20.7.79 ADK)

Chapter Text

Darkness; that was what Regen saw. That shouldn’t be surprising; he was asleep, after all. But he never dreamed. This, clearly, was a dream. “Not a dream,” a female’s voice said, “Well, not exactly.”

Regen raised a metaphorical eyebrow, “If this is not exactly a dream, then what is happening? And who are you?”
The woman chuckled, “A fair question,” she replied. “A vision, perhaps. Or maybe telepathy. It really just depends on how you feel like defining it. As for who I am…” she said before a woman began to materialise before him, “I believe you witnessed a memory of me recently.”

Regen knelt before the figure, “Lady Flamme,” he breathed.

Flamme smirked, “Rise, Regen. It would not do for family to kneel before family.”

Regen started and jumped to his feet, “Family?” he exclaimed.

Flamme smiled and gestured, and the scene shifted to a small, grassy hill with a tree and a stone on it. “Yes. Through your father’s line. Eventually.”

Regen’s eyebrows shot up. “Through Father? But then…”

Flamme’s smile grew, “That my apprentice is teaching her Master’s descendant? Yes, yes, she is,” she said before turning somewhat mournful, “For whatever it is worth: I am sorry about your father. If I had been alive and he had treated you like that, there would not be a force in the world that would have stopped me from protecting you.”

Regen fell into a chair that was suddenly conjured for him. Somewhere, in the back of his mind, he could feel the warmth of an embrace. He never would have thought that anything like this would have been possible. Which brought up a good thought: “How do I know that this isn’t actually a dream?”

Flamme chuckled, “I suppose that no assurance I give would be taken seriously. After all, if I’m a dream, then of course the dream would reassure you that it was real,” she replied before thinking a moment. “You’ll find some bracelets on your night table when you wake up. Neither you nor Sense would recognise them. Serie will,” she said before rising, “We will speak more in future, son of mine.”

Regen rubbed his eyes. He wasn’t sure about that dream, but opening his eyes to Sense in his arms would always be a brilliant way to start the day. He was about to write the dream off as just that when he turned over and saw a pair of golden bracelets on his night table. His eyes widened, though the only reason he didn’t jolt up was because it would wake Sense. After he took a moment to calm himself, he gently banished the pair of bracelets to the pockets of his outfit for the day, already mentally planning the best and quickest way to get an audience with Serie. Being a First-Class Mage meant that he could simply go to her quarters and confer with her there and then, but Regen would first have to get himself out of bed. Which, when Sense rolled slightly to hold onto him in her sleep, would likely be a while.

As it turned out, it would take until nearly the midday meal before Sense and Regen would leave their quarters in search of the Great Mage. Neither of them were particularly quick to leave their chambers, especially when the weather was so quick to turn, as it often did in its last month of summer.

Eventually, they found her in her office, as they should have expected. “Ah, Regen. Sense. What brings you by? I would have thought that you two would have been training your apprentices today?”

Regen sat across from the elf and shrugged, “Later today is the plan, yes. But something happened last night that either means we have a security risk and I need to lay off the sugar when it’s close to bed, or I still need to lay off the sugar, but I experienced some vision or something.” He responded.

Serie cocked her head to the side, her curiosity evident on her face. “Well, you always bring interesting things up. What do you have this time?”

Regen pulled out the bracelets and placed them on the desk, Serie’s eyes narrowing then widening to near comical proportions. “While I slept last night, a woman appeared in my dreams, claiming to be the Legendary Mage Flamme. There she revealed that we were family, through my father’s line and that as proof that this was not a dream, I would find a pair of bracelets on my nightstand in the morning that you would recognise, but neither Sense nor I would.”

Serie took a halting breath before nodding, “These were a birthday present for Flamme when she turned eighteen. As far as I knew, she was buried with them.” she replied before looking up, “I know for a fact that Flamme’s grave is well-hidden and has not been disturbed save for the occasional visit from either me or Frieren.”

Regen rubbed his chin before leaning back in his chair, “Flamme said that she would speak to me again in future. I can only wonder why now and for what purpose, though I suspect the two are linked.”

Serie nodded before rising, “Excuse me,” she mumbled, taking the bracelets with her as she left for her attached quarters.

Regen and Sense looked at each other; it was time to leave. Clearly, Serie needed some space to grieve.

Kanne and Lawine wandered the halls of the Äußerst Facility in search of their masters. Part of the lesson each day was to try to locate them before they grew bored and looked for them. Most of the time, they failed. Today was shaping up to be the same; they weren’t in either of their offices or quarters, nor were they in any of the rooms for the staff of the Facility. Just as the pair were about to give up, a lady of high standing approached them, “Would you two happen to be Kanne and Lawine?” she asked.

Lawine curtsied to the lady, “We are, Milady.”

The woman smiled, “I am Kelle, Sense’s mother. I’m surprised that you are not with your masters. I would have thought that such skilled young mages would be lapping up the instruction.”

Kanne spoke before Lawine could, “We would be, but every day, Mistress Sense and Master Regen challenge us to find them before they get bored and find us.”

Kelle’s eyes sparkled, “My, Sense never really joined the children when they played hide-and-seek. I’m surprised that she’s doing so now. Or is this more of Regen’s idea? He always was skilled at both parts of the game.”

Kanne shrugged; she truthfully didn’t know who had decided it, just that it was. Kelle, on the other hand, just smiled before leaning in. “Well, I didn’t tell you that they were in the Botanical Gardens dancing,” she remarked, nodding to both of them and parting ways.

Both Lawine and Kanne rushed to the Botanical Gardens, where, true to her word, they found Sense and Regen dancing away to music that was unseen or unheard¹. The pair quietly stayed back while the two experienced mages danced as if there was nothing more in the world beyond the person in their arms.

The lesson would start after they had finished their dance, and neither would admit to employing Sense’s mother to find them, but their lessons, as always, were very informative and helpful. However, that only hid what the pair of experienced mages had been going through that morning, and the apprehension that they felt, because a week from today, they would be dining with Kanne and Lawine’s families. Sense was considering rewarding Regen if it all went well. But that would have to wait, for today was lessons.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

A letter from First-Class Mage Fern to her Cousin, First-Class Mage Regen (dated the 21 ^st  day of the 7 ^th month, 79 ADK) and a pair of letters he wrote in response, along with a response to one of them.

Dear Cousin Regen,

I apologise for taking so long to reply to your letters; they have been a comfort these last few days, but things have been so busy that I barely have time to write to you. But we’ve recently made a stop here in Heiß that, if Mistress Frieren is as hopeful as I believe, will last us a few weeks.

We recently ran into the eighth party from the First Test: Wirbel, Scharf and Erhe, where Wirbel tried to recruit Mister Stark into his party, but Mister Stark declined, saying that he was Mistress Frieren’s frontliner. Truthfully, I am glad he refused, even though he is very skilled and would do well pacifying the North; I would miss him dearly.

Speaking of which, I know that you and Mistress Sense believe that there’s something between Mister Stark and I, and… well… there is now. He took me on a date (I was being… a little passive-aggressive, which led to him asking me out), and he cared enough about how I would feel about it that he asked Mistress Frieren for advice. I would have been fine if we had just gone to a park or something where we just spent the day together, but he was concerned enough to care.

I guess that’s why in my first letter I asked you about when you first fell in love, so I could compare with how I feel about Mister Stark. I… I do love him, I realise. Perhaps it was something that happened seeing him face his fears when we first met (He took down a SOLAR DRAGON !), or maybe it developed over the travelling that we’ve done with Mistress Frieren. I don’t really know, and I don’t think I really care to figure that out.

Regen… what I am about to explain to you is something that Mistress Frieren didn’t even tell the Heroes’ Party. But… I worry about her.

Over the last couple of years, I’ve noticed Mistress Frieren becoming concerned with winter’s approach. Not that surprising, but what I only just realised is that she concerns herself with the next winter before the snow has even begun to melt from this winter. A couple of nights ago, I asked her about it, and I got a story I never wanted to hear from anyone ever again, let alone from Mistress Frieren. She, like you, experienced the true harshness of winter as punishment during her childhood. However long that was. She appeared to be under the impression that those sorts of things were commonplace.

I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have mentioned that. Please don’t mention it to anyone. But… If you could find out from Mistress Serie, covertly , whether or not those sorts of punishments were typical of Elves, I would be grateful. I worry greatly about Mistress’ health and her mind.

I’m sorry, that took a turn. I should end this now before anything more depressing comes out.

Love, as always,

Fern

My Dearest Cousin,

Fern, do not ever apologise for seeking aid or for voicing your concerns. Especially to me. We’re family; how is family supposed to help each other if we don't know the problem?

I spoke with Mistress Serie, as you requested, and came away from the conversation convinced that Elven and Human societies are more similar than not. Her family would only punish her by things like an earlier bedtime, no dessert, groundings, and the like (whenever that happened, she implied it occurred more often with her siblings, whom I never knew she had). I framed the conversation as a man seeking advice about future children from a seasoned adult, so as far as I can tell, Mistress Serie has no idea I was speaking about Frieren. This, however, has the side effect of making Mistress Serie ill-tempered.

She said, as I was leaving: “Your parents should be glad they are already dead.”

I’m not entirely sure how I feel about that, but I am leaning more towards seeing Mistress Serie as more of a maternal figure now than before. She already wants to kill the person who has been cheating me out of my pay; I shudder to think of what she would do to my mother and father.

As for your date: Good for you! I’m so proud of you! I can only assume that it didn’t take you twenty years to figure it out, if only because you are not twenty, so you’re already more self-aware than I. Word of advice: Sometimes, boys need to be reassured (MANY TIMES!) that you just want to spend time with him, rather than making it something special (I got that talk the night after the Second Test).

We may see each other sooner than anticipated. Mistress Serie is discussing a situation that is brewing, and she wants to send in an overkill squad. Presently, that list includes Genau (The First Test proctor), Methode (I think Serie just wants to get her away, if only to get away from the headpats) and your party. Sense is discussing with her whether it would be prudent to send the both of us, with or without our apprentices (I nearly forgot: Remember Kanne and Lawine? They’re our apprentices now). We will have to see.

Fern, I’ve attached a letter for Frieren. It is for her eyes ONLY . Regardless of how much you want to read it, please refrain from doing so.

All of my love and worrying about you,

Regen

Mistress Frieren,

I hope this letter finds you in good humours. I doubt you remember me, or if you do, you likely have a poor opinion of me. I am Regen, First-Class Mage, Master of Potions and Poisons, and Master to the Mage Lawine. However, I would argue that the most important titles to me are that of my love life (which I am sure you do not care about) and being Fern’s Cousin. It is for that last one that I write to you now.

I beg of you, do not be angry with Fern; she was only looking out for you and wanted my assistance with that. She told me about your childhood experiences with Winters. In particular, being left outside overnight as a punishment. She only did this out of her love for you and because she knew that I wouldn’t patronise you. Because I experienced the same thing with my family.

Until I reached the age of five, if I misbehaved severely, I was sent outside and expected to stay on the back step until the following morning, regardless of the weather. Unfortunately for me, a severe misbehaviour could be as mild as making a noise when guests were present.

Admittedly, that changed when my Uncle Welten met and married Aunt Abel (Fern’s father and mother), as my Uncle made it very apparent what would happen if he found me on the back step ever again. However, I would just end up staying with them until I started my journey to becoming a mage.

I understand if you would rather leave this part of yourself buried. Sense knows that my immediate family was not that loving towards me, but I have not even shared this with her. Mistress Serie knows of my history because I asked her how different child-rearing was with elves (she can be scary when her blood is up. I’m not entirely convinced she isn’t searching for a way to resurrect my parents just to inflict the worst torture imaginable on them.) And we spoke of my history with it (and potential future).

If, however, you should find yourself wishing to unburden yourself, you can always write to me. Fern should have that Spell Sheet if she hasn’t already shared it with you.

One last thing: I understand you were there for Fern throughout her childhood, and you two remain as close as mother and daughter. I would like to ask this of you, because I know that Elves can be a bit slow with their emotions: Have you ever told Fern “I love you”? If not, consider whether you should , since you would have missed it during the years when she would have greatly needed love and affirmation.

Respectfully yours,

First-Class Mage Regen

Regen,

I must admit, your letter surprised me in more ways than one.

I am not angry with Fern for going behind my back; she did so out of concern for me. I feel as though I should be the one who should be asking for forgiveness. I’ve made her worry all this time, and I never realised it. I apologised to her, which she accepted, although she seemed a bit confused.

Is your entire family so selfless? I suppose not, given your experiences. She thinks nothing of brushing my hair, getting me moving, or keeping me on track. Sometimes, you could be forgiven for thinking that I am her child, rather than being several hundred times her age.

I am rather surprised by Serie’s reaction. I called her “The World’s Oldest Child” before; perhaps I misjudged her. That being said, it does remind me of my own Master’s reaction when she eventually prised the story from me. She was so angry; I was ready to pack my bags, but then she hugged me and begged me to forgive her for her outburst. She then swore to me that I would never have to worry about another winter so long as she lived. The only time I would sleep outside would be when we travelled.

It’s funny. I just described Flamme’s reaction to Fern, and she seems to think that Flamme was reacting as if she were claiming me as her daughter. In a way, I suppose she did.

Regarding your last point… Did Fern tell you why we are going to Aureole? It’s because I have regrets about not saying some things to Himmel. I now see that I would have had those same regrets with Fern. Thank you, you’ve helped me realise my journey’s other purpose: to help me understand the emotions I feel.

I would appreciate the occasional letter from you. However, I would be just as happy to have a letter addressed to all three of us. Would you like me to tell you about Fern and Stark? I’m sure there are things they’d never tell you, but that you should know.

Hopefully a Friend,

Frieren

Chapter Text

Regen sighed as he buttoned his tunic. He didn’t often break out his nicest clothes, but meeting with Kanne’s and Lawine’s families called for it. Especially since they were having dinner at the Bell. He had now eaten at the Bell more times in the last year than he had in the previous five, but he supposed that was a consequence of actually having money. A pair of arms wrapping around his middle drew him from his thoughts, “Relax, Regen.” Sense whispered into his ear, “It’s one night, after this, I doubt we’ll encounter Lawine’s family.”

Regen sighed, “I know, I just wish her family would see the talented young woman that she’s become rather than thrust expectations and dresses onto her,” he murmured before turning his head slightly and kissing her.

Sense was reluctant to break it off, but they did need to make it on time. And she still needed to put on a few things. Things that would be easier if Regen helped her.

Kanne fidgeted under the eyes of her parents and Lawine’s. Sometimes, when all of them were together, she felt that even Mistress Serie’s gaze was less harsh, which wasn’t fair to her parents. They never loaded her with expectations or pushed her to do things she wasn’t ready for, unlike Lawine’s, though that was mostly her father’s doing. It had been a slight surprise when Lawine’s brothers came along, but at this point, she really expected it from them. It was why she acted so silly around Lawine, knowing that she needed the break and easing of tension. Despite her outward actions, Kanne knew that Lawine was grateful, even though her pigtails were constant targets in that regard.

Finally, their Masters arrived, arm in arm. They didn’t look that different to their usual attire, though Mistress Sense was wearing a necklace with an emerald stone centrepiece and a Lotus flower in her hair. Regen’s lips twitched. “And here I thought we were going to be early.”

Kanne’s mother smiled at him, “You are, we just chose to be earlier,” she replied.

Regen nodded to her and then gestured to the door, “Well, shall we?”

They entered the restaurant and were soon seated, waiting for their food. Silence, however, could not last as Lawine’s father spoke up, “So, what has my daughter been learning? Master Regen?”

Regen’s lips twitched. “Well, she’s responsible for two Geisel deaths already,” he replied.

One of Lawine’s brothers spoke up, “Geisel are no joke indeed. I’ve lost more than a few companions to them.”

Another one of them then spoke, “I thought that Geisel were more difficult than Speigels?” he queried, bringing up Lawine’s performance in the Second Test.

Before Kanne could launch into a defence of her now girlfriend, Regen did so for her, “Under normal circumstances, perhaps. But when confronted with a Speigel Clone of the Greatest Mage of All Time and a pair of Clones of the few First-Class Mages who can work together seamlessly? There’s not a small part of me that is amazed that everyone survived the test at all, let alone the twelve who passed it.”

Sense hummed, “We truly had a bumper crop of mages this year. And, with our tutelage, I have no doubt that both Kanne and Lawine will succeed when they take the test again.”

Noises of assent were made at that. When the food arrived, little was said, as everyone silently appreciated the efforts of the cooks. Regen always believed that a loud restaurant was a sign of poor food, and a quiet one the opposite. And everyone was confirming that belief tonight.

Nods and respectful farewells passed between Lawine’s family and everyone else as they parted company at the end of the night. Regen’s shoulders visibly relaxed as they left, but it was Kanne’s father who put it to words, “I don’t understand them, sometimes.” he remarked, “You can’t really social climb any further in Äußerst than having your child apprenticed by a pair of Lady Serie’s own apprentices. Other than perhaps being apprenticed to Lady Serie herself.”

Regen snorted, “That rarely happens,” he remarked, “Of the fifty-two First-Class Mages, there are five who are or have been apprenticed to Lady Serie.”

Kanne’s mother giggled, “Two of whom are standing before us,” she remarked before smiling, “Thank you, Master Regen, for providing our daughter with the push she needed to admit her feelings. No matter what we tried, it wouldn’t get through to her.”

Regen smirked as Kanne blushed, “I can’t claim credit for that one, blame the Geisel that Lawine bisected,” he replied before glancing at Sense, “But, as I’ve learnt: Love is patient, but it shouldn’t be kept waiting.”

Bidding them a good night, Regen and Sense began walking back to their quarters in the Facility. “That was surprisingly pleasant, compared to how I thought it would go,” Regen remarked.

Sense smiled and looked up at him while he wrapped an arm around her shoulder. “You did quite well tonight,” she replied, “Especially when the matter of the Second Test came up.”

Regen snorted, “Danger is a relative term. It all depends on your party and their skills,” he mused.

Sense smirked, “Yes, but you didn’t tear into him like I know you so wanted to do.”

Regen rolled his eyes, “I was half-tempted to challenge him to a spar then and there. See if he thought that I was a pushover because I spent the last fifteen years in the classroom.”

Sense’s smile grew, “Yes, I believe you’ve earned your reward tonight,” she murmured.

Regen raised an eyebrow, “I’m getting a reward? Whatever are you talking about?”

Sense just smiled mysteriously. He would simply have to wait until they returned.

Serie sat in her office with a warm cup of tea. It was something that Falsch excelled at, among many other things. Perhaps she should persuade Sense to delegate some of her responsibilities to Falsch. This would allow her more time with Regen and their apprentices. It would also provide them time with their offspring, once they finally have some.

Speaking of which, Regen opened the door to her office and walked in, only slightly later than Serie had suggested. “Apologies for my tardiness,” he said by way of greeting, “I had to escape Sense’s grip.”

Serie raised an eyebrow, “And the hickey on your neck is a pure coincidence. And that your cloak is inside out.”

Regen’s eyes widened, and he slapped his neck right where the hickey was, flicking his shoulders and fixing his cloak. “Ah… I guess we got… a little passionate last night,” he stammered out.

When he removed his hand, the hickey was removed, or at least covered up. A memory of a makeup spell came to her mind. She had found it a little strange at the time why he had paid such close attention to such a useless spell. Shaking her mind clear, she raised an eyebrow, “Well? Do you have it?”

Regen nodded before summoning a covered canvas, “I took the liberty of framing it so that you would be able to hang it at once.” He replied before removing the cover. “How did I do?”

For a long while, Serie didn’t say anything; she just studied the portrait. Finally, she stood and approached the canvas and laid a hand on Flamme’s cheek. “It looks like she’s about to jump out of the frame and tell me about some new spell she has made that does something pointless in battle, but meaningful to her,” she finally said before turning to him, “Thank you. You’ve given me back something of my dear first apprentice.”

Regen inclined his head respectfully, not entirely sure how to respond. “Where would you like it?” he whispered.

Serie pursed her lips. “I’m not sure,” she murmured, “I had thought to hang it behind my desk, but there is something to be said for putting it in the Great Hall.”

Regen thought for a moment, “What about both?” he asked, drawing a curious look from Serie. “When you are here at Äußerst, it could be hung behind your desk, but when you are not here, it can hang in the Great Hall.”

Serie hummed and nodded. They then spent a while putting it up in her office before Serie handed him a sack of gold that she would not hear of him rejecting. Regen could only smile as he left her office. He had seen a side of the Great Mage that he doubted anyone had witnessed since the days of Flamme. That would always be something special.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

A letter from First-Class Mage Regen to his cousin, First-Class Mage Fern, dated the 10 ^th  day of the 8 ^th month, 79 ADK. Her party’s response, dated the 1 ^st  day of the 9 ^th month, 79 ADK, is attached.

My Dearest Cousin, and Friends,

I do hope this letter finds you all well. Between teaching a young apprentice and the relative youth of my Courtship of Sense, I find myself with less and less time on my hands. Not that I am complaining, I could not ask for a more perfect life from my perspective. I only wish there were more hours in the day.

I do not remember if I wrote this in a previous letter, but I recently took up the hobby of painting and, in some people’s opinions, am quite good at it. Good enough, in fact, that Mistress Serie commissioned a portrait of Flamme from me. We hung it in her office this morning, and she seemed pleased with the quality. I’ve attached the drawing that I used to create the painting, presuming that Mistress Frieren would appreciate the small attempt I made to capture the image of her Master.

Speaking of hobbies, Sense has taken up music. Hearing her play the piano is quite soothing to me, but something she has done has surprised a few of us. You see, our family, Fern, had a poem that we would recite on two occasions: Weddings and Funerals. In fact, the last time I heard it was when your father recited it to your mother at the end of their Wedding. Sense has taken the poem, extended it, and set it to music. The song is beautiful ¹ . When I commented about how it would sound better at our wedding, I swear that Sense’s face could have lit up a town. I’ve also attached both her extended poem and the sheet music she made.

Kanne and Lawine are quite the handful. I’m sure that Mistress Frieren can attest to their antics during the First-Class Mage Exam. She’ll be pleased to know that they have calmed down. Somewhat. They’ve turned more to passion than aggression, but they still know how to push each other’s buttons. Sometimes, it’s amusing. Though I’m sure that Mistress Frieren would be more than happy to share stories from your apprenticeship with me, that would send you, Kanne, and Lawine away in embarrassment.

Always with my Love,

Regen

Dear Master Regen,

I am Stark, Miss Frieren and Miss Fern’s Frontliner. Forgive me for being the one to reply to you; both Frieren and Fern are still rather emotional over your last letter. Namely, your added attachments. Thank you for sharing them; however. Even I could tell that Fern craves more information about her family. And Miss Frieren won’t admit it, but she doesn’t just miss Master Himmel.

We’re about to cross over into the Northern Plateau. There are many monsters up here; from what I’ve heard, there are even more demons here. I’m hoping that we’ll get some help. There’s too much for just the three of us to do, and I know that Miss Frieren takes each Demon we come across as a personal insult to the memory of Himmel the Hero. Fern informed me that Mistress Serie was planning an attack force. Between what we’ve heard and what we know of the Golden Lands, this cowardly warrior asks that you send as much as you can. It couldn’t hurt the chances.

Your Humble Servant,

Stark

Chapter Text

Regen stood beside Serie in her hall, motionless, unreadable. Sense stood on the Great Mage’s other side in a similar state. Before them, Genau and Methode stood, impassive. “I need you both to go to the Rufen Region.” Serie suddenly said. “Reports from the Order of Norm indicate that a powerful Demon is in the area. With the increase in reports of this kind, I am hesitant to send out First-Class Mages on their own. So, you two will partner for this mission.”

Methode nodded and held out her hand to Genau, indicating her willingness to put any tension she felt about the First Test behind them. Genau, on the other hand, didn’t appear to be as willing to cooperate. “The Northern Plateau is dangerous; all manner of things reside there ready to kill you,” he said before looking at the hand derisively. “Don’t get in my way.”

Serie levelled a hard look at Genau, unimpressed with his bitterness. “Genau,” she drawled, “Be nice. Shake the woman’s hand. You’d better get used to her presence.”

Genau bit his lip, but haltingly shook her hand before turning and leaving. The look Methode had on her face said it all: she didn’t understand why she was being paired with him. “Pay him no mind, Methode.” Regen remarked, drawing her attention, “He’s not got the greatest people skills, but he’s a decent mage, and he’s good at what he does.”

Methode hummed and nodded before making her own exit. Serie, on the other hand, frowned. “How odd,” she remarked when Methode had departed, “Normally, she makes the strangest of eyes at me when I interact with her. Today, that was absent.”

Regen hummed, but Sense answered, “She is probably puzzled about why you paired them up. Their personalities do clash.”

Serie grimaced, “I was hoping that they would balance each other out,” she mused before looking at Regen, “I’d like for you to go with them, mostly so they don’t kill each other. Sense and I will take care of your apprentice.”

Regen nodded and offered a bow to them both before making for the door. He only got partway as Serie called out: “I’ll send word to Frieren’s party. They should be in the area.”

Regen smiled and continued towards the door, but turned his body around to reply to her, “Don’t get your hopes up that I’ll be able to convince Fern to swap Masters!” he called out.

It was comical how visibly dejected Serie appeared. But Regen knew it was slightly exaggerated. She knew that Fern would always remain with Frieren. He soon found himself at the gates of Äußerst, waiting patiently for his companions to arrive. Unsurprisingly, Methode was the first to arrive. “Are you here to see me off, Master Regen?” she asked.

Regen shook his head, “No, Mistress Serie has asked me to accompany you and Genau on your mission,” he replied before darting his eyes around and smirking. “Mistress Frieren’s party is in the area, and Mistress Serie is contacting her to see if she’ll lend support.”

Methode’s lips twitched, even if she didn’t vocalise it; it was clear that it would be nice to see Frieren again. Fern as well. Outwardly, on the other hand, she asked a simple question, “Is the matter so perilous that Mistress Serie feels the need to assign four First-Class Mages to it?”

Regen smirked, “Mistress Serie is of the opinion that when it comes to Demons, there’s no kill like overkill,” he replied before lowering his head and turning mournful, “I am inclined to agree with her.”

Methode cocked her head to the side, but before she could question him, Genau appeared, “Regen. I do not need a send-off party.”

Regen turned to face the mage, “Then it is good that I am not here to send you off. I am here to join you, Mistress Serie’s orders,” he replied.

If anything, Genau’s usual expression turned more sour. Regen decided against telling him that Serie was also routing Frieren and her party over. Genau, however, just accepted it, “Very well. We’ll make for the town of Rufen, it will provide us with the greatest chance to protect those we can,” he said.

Regen hummed as they began their walk, “Your hometown will make an excellent base of operations,” he mused aloud.

Genau didn’t seem to appreciate the reference to his past, though Methode looked politely intrigued. This caused Regen to sigh inwardly. This was going to be a long four days of travel.

He wasn’t wrong. It had been a tense four days, with stilted conversation containing only the barest of details forthcoming from Genau. This caused Regen to be the one to inform Methode of many of the mission’s details. By the time they had arrived, the town was already in ruins. Genau sent them both to the church, presumably to let Methode heal more effectively, but they both could tell that he didn’t expect any survivors.

The sight that greeted them at the church would have overwhelmed a less experienced mage. As it stood, their stomachs curled, but they set about arranging the dead so they would be respectfully housed until the Order could arrive. There were many white sheets that Regen conjured, while Methode scanned them all with an autopsy spell to determine how they died. Beyond the obvious answers, that was. It was clearly the work of Demons, but which one it was remained out of reach, for now.

Soon, Genau returned with another body; Regen clearly saw that the man was already dead, but Methode held out a little hope. Regen paid little attention to their exchange as something tingled on the edge of his mana. It took him an embarrassingly long time to realise what it was, and that was more solved by the sudden shattering of the church’s windows and appearance of Frieren through said window than any amount of sleuthing on his part. “Lady Frieren!” he called out.

Frieren turned and saw him, “Master Regen! Fern and I detected a significant amount of killing intent in the local mana, so we thought there was a Demon here. It’s just you and your companions?”

Methode frowned at Genau, and Regen jutted his chin towards the man, “Probably just his mana, Milady. It is his hometown, after all.”

Genau furrowed his brow in annoyance, as if that was supposed to mean something to him. Frieren, on the other hand, flinched and looked away for a moment. Her memories of another village, a thousand years ago, flashed through her mind. Even if there weren’t the warmest of memories that were attached to that village, it had still been her home, where she grew up for four centuries. Regen, seeing her begin to be consumed by the flashbacks, called out to her, “Frieren? Why don’t we go and get Fern and Stark? Let them know that it’s as safe as can currently be.”

Frieren nodded, grateful for the distraction. She even quickly repaired the window she had flown in from before they left. Once outside, Regen sighed, “Sorry about all of that,” he murmured, keeping his voice low purposefully, “Mistress Serie hoped that Methode and Genau would balance each other out, but so far all that has occurred is the bare minimum interaction to carry out this mission.”

Frieren hummed and nodded, “I gathered as much,” she remarked. “I suppose that was why she sent for us to do this as well.”

Regen shrugged slightly, “Partly, mostly just because in her eyes, there’s no kill like overkill when it comes to demons.”

Frieren grinned, “On that, I can agree with her,” she replied, then they came upon Fern and Stark, “Fern! Stark! All clear.”

Fern turned and lit up on seeing Regen, “Regen!” she cried out, rushing up to him.

Regen smiled and caught her in a fierce hug, “Fern! Good to see you. And in one piece! That’s more than most mages in the area can say,” he said. “Letters may be nice, but I do prefer face-to-face.”

Fern smiled and nodded. Soon, Methode joined them, and Stark went into the church to survey the damage. The older woman’s eyes betrayed her inner conflict; she still wasn’t convinced about this partnership with Genau. Something that both Frieren and Fern picked up on, “Forgive me for saying so, Methode, but you seem ill at ease. Is something the matter?” Frieren remarked.

Methode rubbed her eyes and sighed, “No, I’ve just been doing what I could to see if Genau would open up. It’s… difficult.”

Regen snorted, “Forgive me for saying so, but Mages far closer to him have tried for many years to get him to ease up on his facade, to no avail,” he replied before looking at Methode, “Don’t concern yourself with his feelings. Once this mission is over, you’ll be free to do as you wish. I know that Genau intends to stay in the North, but I’ve got to get back to Äußerst. Kanne and Lawine won’t become First-Class Mages if one of their masters is absent.”

Methode’s lips twitched, “And I’m sure Lady Sense is eagerly awaiting your return. A passionate return, I imagine,” she teased.

Regen looked anywhere that wasn’t another person, whilst Fern and Frieren seemed utterly confused. Just as Methode was about to explain how she encountered Regen and Sense in the throes of passion, Regen spoke up, “Before you say anything, Methode, should I say why I know that you were not in the habit of locking your door?”

Methode clamped her mouth shut. She remembered the incident clearly as if it had been yesterday. To be fair, usually Regen didn’t just barge into someone’s personal quarters, though, in his defence, he thought he was entering her office. It had been several years since he had been in that part of the facility. It still didn’t negate the fact that he had seen her… relieving some tension, as it were. Thankfully, neither Frieren nor Fern pressed further as Regen turned the subject to training. Something that was relatively easy for all mages to discuss.

They would talk for quite a while before dividing tasks between them. Genau and Stark would stay behind and guard the bodies, while Fern and Methode would take care of some locations where the Demons could be hiding, and Regen and Frieren would take the others.

They would remain quiet for a time before Regen spoke up, “Mistress Frieren, might I ask how it has been, training Fern?”

Frieren thought for a moment, “If you allow me to ask a question of my own,” she replied.

Regen nodded, and Frieren began, “As I believe I mentioned in my first letter to you, Fern is utterly selfless. She thinks nothing of brushing my hair or waking me up before midday. And, in terms of training, she thinks nothing of it when I drill her in one thing for weeks on end.”

Regen hummed; it was sort of as he expected when Fern’s master was an immortal Elf; he experienced similar things with Mistress Serie. But Frieren continued, “But, in all honesty, she teaches me just as much, if not more, than I teach her.”

Regen smiled, “The best apprentices do that to us. I wouldn’t doubt that Mistress Serie learns something from myself and Sense on occasion.”

Frieren smirked, “You mean to have emotions?” she replied.

Regen smirked in reply, “No comment,” he said, winking at her.

Frieren laughed, then she looked at him, “Why do you refer to me with the same title as Serie? It seems rather strange.”

Regen looked incredulously at her, “It’s a sign of respect,” he replied. “You are one of the last two Great Mages and the only acknowledged apprentice to the Legendary Mage Flamme. Even should I live twice as long as you, I would never be half as skilled or good.”

Frieren twitched her nose, “I’m not so skilled. Merely fortunate to have such skilled companions.”

Regen looked at her with confusion, “Milady, you are known as ‘Frieren the Slayer’, something that everyone, mage or not, knows.” He replied. “One does not receive such a title without some skill.”

Frieren didn’t look convinced, but before she could reply, a pair of Demons jumped in front of them. “Hah! The Slayer and the Blood of Fire! Our Master will be pleased,” the male one said.

Frieren looked confused; she had heard the term before, but not for a thousand years. Beside her, Regen drew his staff; she did as well. They paired off, each taking their own gender in battle. Frieren took to the air and battled with swift and fierce magics. Regen, on the other hand, closed the distance and used his spear-like staff as a weapon itself, not just his magic.

They battled for what felt like hours, but in truth, it was merely fifteen minutes before the demon opposite Regen landed a blow on his cheek, opening it. Regen hissed in pain, and the demon whooped in excitement, but in that excitement, he took his eyes off Regen, which allowed Regen to decapitate the demon.

As the demon began to disintegrate into mana particles, Regen pressed a hand to his cheek. Stemming the tide of blood for now, at least. Then he flew into the air to join Frieren’s battle, but found the Great Mage already victorious. Frieren raised an eyebrow at his injury, “A calculated risk, which paid off.” Regen replied to the inquisitive glance.

Frieren raised an eyebrow, “I think you’re not good at Maths,” she remarked, drawing an indignate noise out of Regen, before turning, “I saw Methode and Fern finished their battle. From what I can sense, all the hostile intent has dissipated. I would venture a guess that Genau and Stark encountered the enemy as well.”

Regen hummed before glancing at the church, “Well, let’s head back then. Methode should be able to do something with this gash,” he mused.

Frieren took a look at the offending wound before frowning, “You are probably right. Unfortunately, I am useless when it comes to healing.”

They flew back, Regen doing what he could to keep from bleeding everywhere, though the cut burned like high heaven. He’d experienced very few injuries in his life, what with him teaching for most of his life; what injuries he had experienced were when he was young, and he and Sense had been dared to venture into the Halls of Bolor. And even then, he had merely suffered a sprained ankle, though Sense never knew about that, something that he had hidden for months and would probably come back to bite him in years to come, but not something like a cut where blood was exposed to the air.

They quickly returned to the church, where they found Fern holding Stark’s hand as he lay unconscious on the ground while Methode worked her healing magic on Genau, who was in a similar position to Stark. “When you finish with him, I’ve got a little something for you to work on, Methode!” Regen called out as they landed.

Methode stood and turned to face them, “I just finished. He’s not nearly as injured as Mister Stark was,” she said before raising her eyebrow, “What happened?”

Just as Regen was about to open his mouth to explain, Frieren intervened, “He took a calculated risk against a Demon, but whoever taught him maths didn’t do a good job.”

Regen rolled his eyes. “I taught myself the skill,” he whispered before looking at Methode. “Could you at least do something about the burning? It’ll get distracting eventually.”

Methode’s other eyebrow shot up, and she began casting furiously in his direction. “And you didn’t think the blade was poisoned? You’re the Master of Potions and Poisons!”

Frieren shot a sharp look at Regen, who merely shrugged, “Ran through all known poisons in my head and nothing came up. Or rather, many things came up, but they all had other side effects that I wasn’t feeling, thus discounted,” he replied.

Methode frowned and finished her work, sealing his cheek. “Well… you were right. There were no poisons in your system, but still! Normally, a burning wound is either infected or poisoned.”

Frieren furrowed her brow, “Now that I think about it… the Demons did say something about 'The Blood of Fire', but I didn’t understand. Still don’t.”

Regen rubbed his chin as Fern looked at him with a worried expression on her face. “One of the Demons we faced said something similar,” she revealed.

Regen thought hard, then something hit him like a metaphorical ton of bricks, “Fire… Flamme,” he breathed.

That drew Frieren’s attention sharply, but Regen continued, “I keep discounting it because it was so strange, despite Mistress Serie’s confirmation,” he said before looking at Fern, “So far as I have been informed, we are the last descendants of the Legendary Mage Flamme.”

Frieren raised an eyebrow, then squinted at the both of them. “You know… I see it.” She finally said. “You both are built like her, Fern most obviously. The only real differences are your hair and eye colours.”

Regen hummed, “Purple came into the family with our grandmother,” he said. “On both counts.”

Frieren hummed, but Fern’s eyes were as wide as saucers. Regen spoke though, “I’m surprised you aren’t more surprised, Mistress Frieren. Your life in magic has effectively come full circle, as you teach the many times grandchild of your master.”

Frieren waved him off, “Doesn’t change much. I’ll still teach her the same as I had been; it just means I can tell her stories about Flamme and I and she’ll be interested in them for more than their value as stories about magic.”

Regen smirked, “Ah, that is a boon, I assume,” he remarked before sitting before their fire pit and igniting it. “Well, Methode and I have better rations than whatever you’ve been receiving. Time to eat!”

Notes from the running of the Äußerst Facility:

A pair of reports addressed to Mistress Serie: Regen’s report on the subjugation of the Rufen Region (dated 19 ^th  day of the 1 ^st  month, 80 ADK) and Inspector Wiezen’s report on the ongoing investigation (dated 24 ^th  day of the 1 ^st  month, 80 ADK).

Mistress Serie.

Rufen has been pacified. I am sending this report ahead of myself and Methode in the hopes that this will satisfy you until our return (presently slated for five days after I send this report).

Forces encountered were aligned with the Demon General Revolte. In total, six lesser Demons were discovered, and the General themself. In this, I thank you for alerting Mistress Frieren’s party to the area. We were able to destroy all opposing forces. Genau and the Warrior Stark took grievous wounds in battling Revolte. This is why our return and this report has taken so long. We were waiting for Mister Stark to recover before sending word of our progress.

Genau destroyed one of the lesser demons before we had finished surveying the village and one while facing Revolte. He remains… reluctant to divulge details. For some reason, other than reporting the destruction of the Demon, Mister Stark even refuses to give any other details. Not even to Fern. Though, considering the wounds sustained, it is likely that the lad had his hands full at the time.

As for the remaining four lesser Demons, Mistress Frieren and I faced two of them, unremarkable to me, and Mistress Frieren didn’t seem too impressed either. Fern and Methode faced the other two Demons. I suffered a minor wound to the cheek, and that was the limit of the injuries sustained by either party.

However, something that each party encountered unsettles me. Both parties were identified as having “The Blood of Fire” in them. Methode and I will speak with you on our return regarding the matter, as I do not wish for the Enemy to intercept this.

Genau will remain in Rufen to continue to provide support for the pacification of the region, something I am aware of Wirbel and his party joining in on.

Master Regen, Master of Potions and Poisons, First-Class Mage.

Report #7 - Regen Money Case

Lady Serie, I have traced the money to the Empire. As you may recall, I suspect a larger conspiracy is at work. And I fear I have found the evidence.

All accounts that received the money were prefixed with the designation “IRF”. This indicates that the Imperial Royal Family is involved. Will continue to investigate from the Capital.

End Report (24.1.80 ADK)

Chapter Text

“You’ve learnt much these last few months,” Serie remarked as she blocked a strike, “It’s been a long while since I was forced to use my staff in a spar.”

Regen spun around as he dodged her counter and sent his own her way, “Oh, you know, just a legacy I have to live up to.” He replied.

Serie blocked the strike again before unleashing a volley of spells, all of which Regen either dodged or blocked. “I wouldn’t be too worried. You’re a more than capable warrior and a beloved teacher. I’m more surprised that you weren’t being compared to her before.”

Regen closed the distance to where they battled with their staves as melee weapons. “There is no way I am comparable to the Founder of Humanity’s Magic now, much less beforehand.”

Serie frowned, but before she could reply, Regen made a daring blow that knocked her staff from her hands. After she knelt, acknowledging that he had won their spar, Regen collapsed to the floor and gulped down air like water in the desert. Serie rolled her eyes, “Remember to BREATHE!” she exclaimed before shaking her head, “You are pushing yourself too hard, Regen. All the training in the world will be of no use to you if you cannot stay upright to use it.”

Regen groaned, but accepted the hand up. The pair walked, though in Regen’s case it was more of a graceful stumble, over to one side of the training yard where Lernen and Sense sat with tea. “Mistress Serie is correct, Master Regen,” Lernen said. “Perhaps you should take some time for yourself; it would do you some good.”

Regen sighed and laid his head down on the table, too exhausted to put up much opposition. Serie then spoke up, “Since tomorrow is your birthday, I am giving you an order to not do anything related to CMA business until after Sense’s birthday two weeks from now,” she said before looking at Sense, “You’ll be joining him, Sense.”

Sense blinked, but she saw the logic in the plan. It would actually compel Regen to rest if she were with him. She just had a single question: “What about our apprentices?” she asked.

Lernen rubbed his chin, “I would be more than happy to take on their training for the duration,” he remarked before looking at Serie, “And I’m sure Mistress Serie wouldn’t mind joining me for the odd lesson or two.”

To be completely honest, Serie intended to be there for every lesson as she had started to grow rather fond of the duo. Outwardly, however, she merely nodded. Then she grinned at Lernen as they watched Sense lug Regen away. “I think everyone is glad that they admitted their feelings last year.” She remarked, sipping her tea. “We might have been ready to intervene, but this is better, I think.”

Lernen smirked, “And, in a way, we can thank Mistress Frieren for that.”

Serie hummed, reflecting on the First-Class Mage Exam. In a way, she was glad that Sense was slightly ill and collapsed during their meeting before the third test. She was sure that her comments to Lernen would have driven him to challenge Frieren, and she did not want to lose him. Though she was suddenly struck by a thought: “How is your granddaughter faring? I understand she is part of Wirbel’s expedition to the north.”

Lernen pursed his lips, which caused Serie to raise her eyebrow; he rarely had a bad thing to say about his granddaughter. For him to act as if she were causing a problem was unusual. “She is well,” he finally relented, “Though she has asked for advice on her two companions. Neither of which I approve of.”

Serie furrowed her brow, “Scharf is a competent mage, Wirbel is First-Class. They’ll be able to keep her safe.” She remarked, confused.

Lernen shook his head, “It is not her safety I worry about, only her virtue,” he replied, sipping his tea.

It took Serie far longer than she would have liked to admit to understand what Lernen was saying. When she finally did, she rubbed her brow, “Sure a shame, they’re such a good team,” she muttered. Then she looked at him, “Would you like me to recall them to Äußerst?”

Lernen shook his head, “No, because then they would resent me and you for recalling one or more of them when they are so effective,” he replied.

Serie raised an eyebrow, “And you will not tell Ehre about your disapproval of her companions? Even though one of them is old enough to have been her father, if a bit on the younger side?”

Lernen hummed, finishing his tea, “There are some things that everyone must learn on their own, and I will not be there for her at all times,” he replied. “As long as she is happy, that is all that matters.”

Serie shook her head; she really didn’t understand humans, even after ten thousand years. Even Frieren seemed to understand them better than her. Just then, Falsch entered the yard with a fresh pot of tea, “Ah, you’ve finished,” he remarked.

Serie hummed, “Regen had the upper hand today,” she remarked, drawing a raised eyebrow from the First-Class Mage. “He’s pushing himself too hard, so I’ve ordered him and Sense to take a fortnight’s rest. Starting tomorrow.”

Falsch hummed, remembering that tomorrow was Regen’s birthday, something that the other mages only knew because last year Sense guilted them all into admitting that they had never thought to ask, especially since Regen had never made a big deal out of birthdays, other than Sense’s. “Would you like assistance with their apprentices, Mistress?” he asked.

Lernen spoke up, “I’m actually officially taking care of them. Though I shall never say no to more mages offering instruction.”

Falsch hummed, recalling what had happened four months ago when Regen had departed for the chaos in Rufen. He wasn’t convinced that either girl had yet to recover from seeing Mistress Serie smile. Serie, however, interrupted his thoughts, “We should really assign them an apprentice quarters. Get them some space from Lawine’s family.”

The fact that she only suggested a singular set of quarters for them rather than a pair of quarters told him that she knew that they were closer than friends. However, he nodded, “I will survey our current options. I should have a suitable set of options by the end of the day.”

Serie hummed, and they continued to drink the provided tea; Falsch really was a Tea Master.

Regen flopped onto his bed with the aches that told him he had overdone it today, knowing full well that tomorrow would be worse. That turned into an exhale and laugh as Sense flopped on top of him and burrowed into his arms. “You’re eager tonight,” he mused. “Meanwhile, I’m decript.”

Sense snorted, “You’re not. You just have put the weight of the world on your shoulders and got told off for it today.” She replied before kissing him.

Regen relaxed into the bed and her embrace. “Mmm… you’ll have to take the lead tonight. I should really consider developing a pain relief potion for aches.”

Sense quickly pressed a finger to his lips, “Shh… no talk of work from tonight on. You’ll ruin the mood.”

Regen smirked, “Consider it banished from my mind. Unlike you, I don’t think I could ever forget you or our nights.”

Sense rose up with a smile on her face, “Good,” she replied. “I’m glad that my body is particularly memorable for you.”

Regen’s lips twitched; it was an insecurity that no matter how hard he tried to assure her otherwise, she still felt inadequate in bed. “How could I ever forget the love of my life above me with nary a stitch on her and being in a similar condition myself,” he replied before smirking and rising to whisper into her ear, “I should think that I had better not think about you in too much detail when in public. There’s only so much loose clothing can hide.”

Sense smiled before beginning a new assault on his lips, one that Regen was quite happy to surrender to.

Regen and Sense sat at one of the many cafes in Äußerst the following morning. Sense was taking him to the Bell that night to celebrate his birthday, but for now, they contented themselves with tea on this surprisingly sunny day, given the time of year. Then they were surprised by the appearance of someone they thought had already left, “Master Denken!” Regen called out, drawing the elder mage’s attention. “I thought you had already left for Weiss?”

Denken approached and bowed respectfully to the pair, “I intend to leave in the morning. It took me longer than I thought to convince Laufen to remain behind with Richter.” He replied, taking the seat Sense offered him. “Though I am surprised to see the pair of you out here enjoying the weather. You both are usually in the facility, come rain or shine.”

Sense cut in before Regen could answer, “He’s been working himself too hard, so Mistress Serie ordered him to take some time off.” she replied, drawing an understanding nod from Denken, “And, since today happens to be his birthday, we thought to enjoy the unseasonably good weather before heading to the Bell for dinner.”

Denken raised his eyebrows, “Is it? Then happy birthday, Master Regen,” he said, drawing an appreciative nod from the younger man. Then he grinned with a sparkle in his eyes and voice, “I’m sure that your birthday has started and will end in a way that you’ll treasure for the rest of your life.”

Denken had chosen the exact moment that both Sense and Regen were drinking from their tea to say that, so he was rewarded for his cheekiness with the sight of the pair coughing up a lung each. A sight which caused him to chuckle, “I apologise, I haven’t had the opportunity to tease a colleague in a good-mannered way ever before, so I could not resist.”

Regen waved him off as soon as he brought his breathing back under control, “You’re fine, we’re still somewhat unused to our colleagues teasing us. And in a well-meaning way, too.”

Denken raised an eyebrow, but neither were forthcoming with details, so the matter dropped. However, Regen leaned forward, “Denken, may I ask something of you?”

Denken inclined his head, “If it is within my power to grant it, I will do so,” he replied.

Regen pursed his lips but sighed, “I just worry about Fern. And I would ask that if your travels in the North make your paths cross, please keep an eye out for her.”

Denken furrowed his brow, “Mistress Frieren is more than capable of protecting her student, but I will do what I can, should our paths cross,” he asked, drawing relief from Regen. “Might I ask why you feel it is something that needs doing?”

Regen grimaced, “Because if a demon is particularly perceptive, they’ll realise that Fern is descended from their most feared enemy and is being trained by their bogeyman. The sheer size of the target on her back will be enormous.”

Denken raised an eyebrow, having some difficulty following along. Sense, however, spelt it out for him: “With Fern being trained by Frieren ‘Demon’s Bane’ and with Fern and Regen being descended from the Legendary Mage Flamme… well, it’s likely that if a demon kills one or both of them, they’ll have the clout to declare themselves as the next Demon King.”

Denken’s eyebrows shot up, and he found himself glad he was already sitting down. Then he frowned, “I suddenly understand why Master Regen was overdoing it in training. You feel as though you have some legacy to fulfil.” he said, drawing a slight nod from the mage in question, “Then, some advice from an old man: Destiny is what you make of it; it is not what anyone else places in front of you.”

Regen chuckled, “I try to remind myself of that. Some days are more successful than others,” he replied before grinning mirthlessly, “But other days I am reminded that I am the culmination of the Founder of Humanity’s Magic.”

Denken huffed, “Regen, none of us would have ever met the Legendary Flamme, but from the stories I’ve been told from my childhood, I would imagine that she would be exceptionally proud of you already,” he replied. When Regen didn’t look convinced, he rolled his eyes, “You know, you have an excellent resource in this matter: the two people who actually knew Flamme in life.”

Regen hummed and nodded. Between both Mistresses Frieren and Serie, he had unique insight into his ancestor. An ancestor who happened to be the first apprentice to Serie and who mentored Frieren into the person she became. At least partly. Sense, though, broke the silence that had formed, “On that note, I’m still not convinced that Mistress Serie was teasing.”

On Denken’s raised eyebrow, Regen explained: “After Methode’s Exam, she basically told me that Sense and I should get a move on regarding producing offspring.”

Now it was Denken’s turn to choke on air. That was so unexpected that it somehow looped back to being completely expected from the Great Mage. “Forgive me for my reaction,” he finally eeked out, “But whilst I am certain that you two will make great parents, you had been less than forty-eight hours away from your confessions. That was not the time to bring up children.”

Regen chuckled and rubbed Sense’s hand, “Well, according to some, Lernen and Falsch in particular, we’ve already been courting for over fifteen years before that.”

Denken raised an eyebrow, and they launched into a story about their past. Back when they were yet to become First-Class Mages…

“You will be paired off and will hunt for Stilles in the forest for two days. By sunset on the second day, if you and  your partner are not before me to turn in the mission, you’ll fail.” The Mage proctoring the First-Class Mage Exam’s First Test said.

Regen looked at the inscribed stone in his hand, then looked to his side, grateful that Fate had placed Sense and him on the same team. They waited for the fourteen other mages to leave before they started walking through the forest. The looks of derision had been expected, but they thought their fellow mages' behaviour was childish. So what if they were only fifteen years old! If they managed it, they should be accepted. “Shouldn’t be too difficult,” he murmured. “Stille will react to mana. So, so long as we keep a lid on ours, it should be relatively simple to catch one.”

Sense hummed, as that was something they had worked on together after it had become clear he could do so effectively a few years ago. “We just need to find one.”

Regen hummed in agreement. They then spent the rest of the day searching for a Stille, though they were unsuccessful by the time they settled down for the night. Their fire had gone out, and they were trying to sleep; however, Northern Nights were bitterly cold. Sense was drawing her blanket tighter around her when she felt Regen’s arms wrap around her, “Too cold,” he murmured, half asleep, “You’re like ice.”

After that, they slept soundly for the rest of the night. Sense eventually woke to Regen looking intently at her. “Good morning,” she murmured, about to stretch herself awake.

Regen kept her still. “Don’t move,” he whispered, “You’ve got a pair of Stille on your shoulder.”

Sense’s eyes widened, and she carefully looked at her shoulder, which did indeed have a pair of the orange birds on it. Regen quickly found a piece of his rations and placed it in the cage they had been given, then held it out towards the birds. Surprisingly, they both hopped in without fuss, not even causing a racket when Regen quickly shut the door behind them. “Well… that’s not how I thought today would go.” He muttered, half-glaring at the avians. “I thought we’d have to travel hither and yond to find them. But they found us…”

Sense smiled, “And while we were sleeping too,” she remarked before standing and stretching, “Well, let’s eat, then find somewhere to hide for the day.”

Regen agreed, but before he could offer up the rations, they both sensed an attack incoming and dodged. That spell had been aimed at killing them. But as they came to stand back to back, staves ready, Regen took stock of the situation and frowned, “Three groups. None of them allied,” he whispered. Then he called out to all of the mages surrounding them: “Ich wünsche Ihnen viel Glück in den kommenden Kriegen! ¹ ”

Sense frowned, “And ready to kill,” she whispered back. She then launched into her attack, which Regen supported. The eight mages soon engaged in a fierce battle, Regen and Sense using the chaos of the assault to thin the numbers. Especially since there were more groups than they had Stille. Regen was particularly skilled at reflecting spells back at their caster or at another hostile force. Clearly, these mages, all at least triple their age, did not believe that a pair of teenagers could fight back. They also clearly had no qualms about killing a pair of children. As such, neither Sense nor Regen could afford to hold back. But even when they both killed a mage each, from differing parties no less, none of the mages were particularly interested in leaving.

Despite bringing the numbers down to a mere four against the two of them, Regen could tell that it was starting to take its toll on them both. So, he took a deep breath and pushed Sense down. “Judradjim!” he cried out.

The streaks of lightning shot out from his staff and struck the foes facing Sense, while his own just managed to dodge the attack. But they wouldn’t dodge the next: “Vollzanbel!” He cried out, facing his foes. Incinerating the area in front of him, Regen etched the shock worn by their foes into his mind to hold on to. He never wanted to be responsible for a loss of life, but when they threatened Sense’s safety, he had no choice. Breathing heavily, Regen surveyed the carnage before helping Sense stand back up. She had the cage in her hair and brought it out to show him that their feathered friends were fine. After taking stock of the situation, they searched for and found a cave to hide out in for the remainder of the test. Which they were successful in.

Notes from the running of the Äußerst Facility:

Report from Inspector Weizen to Great Mage Serie, 11 ^th  day of the 5 ^th  month, 80 ADK.

Report #9 - Regen Money Case

Situation deteriorating. Returning to Äußerst. Debrief in-person.

End Report (11.5.80 ADK)

Chapter Text

Regen and Sense raced through the facility. Everyone who saw them hurried to get out of their way. Never before had either mage been seen with such looks of terror as were plastered on their faces as they ran to the medical wing. When they arrived, Lernen met them, though Sense’s mother was sitting in a chair rocking herself. “Lernen. What happened?” Regen asked as Sense went to her mother.

Lernen frowned, “I wish I could say.” he replied, “I met Inspector Weizen and Lady Kelle on the bridge into Äußerst, and he was already looking the worse for wear. But once we arrived back here, he collapsed.”

Regen frowned, but before he could say any more, the resident priest joined them. “The Inspector will survive,” he said, drawing a cry of relief from Kelle while Sense held her mother somewhat upright. “I managed to syphon a sample of the poison used against him while I was clearing his blood. Hopefully, you’ll be able to find some answers, Master Regen,” he said, handing over a vial.

Regen frowned as he gazed at the vial. Just by looking at it, he could narrow it down considerably, as he noted the brown liquid and its relatively viscous nature. Before he could say anything, though, a new voice broke the silence: “How soon will the Inspector be released?” Serie asked as she entered the room, Falsch by her side, “He had a critical matter he wanted to brief me on.”

The priest thought for a moment before shaking his head, “I am hesitant to release him until I know exactly what the poison was. Just in case there are lingering effects.”

Regen hummed, “I’ll get started at once, Mistress Serie,” he said before bowing his head, intending to leave.

Serie held out her hand though, “Hold a moment, Regen. We’ll do it here, but you and Sense should join Lernen, Falsch and I for it.” she said before gesturing for them to join her.

Regen cocked his head to the side and raised an eyebrow; Serie responded with a glance to Sense. They followed in silence, or as silently as a relieved spouse could. When they arrived, Sense rushed straight to her father, closely followed by her mother. The others all allowed the family a few moments. Regen felt himself sink into a chair, a rush of relief coursing through him, as it was one thing to hear that someone was out of the woods and another to see it for yourself. Serie let the moment hang for a moment before casting a spell around the room, “There. Now we’re safe from eavesdroppers,” she said before looking at Sense’s father.

Weizen nodded before drawing himself up on the bed. “Well, as you know, I was investigating where the money that was stolen from Regen had been funnelled,” he said, drawing a curious look from Regen and a nod from the other mages, barring Sense, who mirrored Regen. “The discovery that the money ended up in the accounts of the Imperial Royal Family was a surprise. But more so that this account was traditionally used for Shadow Warrior operations.”

Regen cocked his head to the side, “But the Shadow Warriors have been defunct for the last fifteen years. In fact, they were dissolved not long after we became First-Class Mages,” he remarked.

Serie frowned, “There have been reports that they were not as dissolved as was previously thought. Whether they are acting more in the shadows than before or are merely rogue agents clinging to an illegal organisation remains to be determined.”

Weizen hummed, “That they continue to use this account hints more at the former than the latter, I feel,” he said before producing a paper. “And, I found this.”

Serie gestured for Regen to take it, so he read the paper aloud.

Pillars of Magic to be eliminated.

Minus the Warmonger -eliminated by Löwe

Serie  - to be eliminated at FB

Frieren the Slayer - unknown location or goal, target after handling Serie, assuming she isn’t killed incidentally

Regen, Master of Potions and Poisons - remove the last link to the Witch Flamme at the same time as Serie

Mages should become weaker without these masters of their craft. After their elimination, we can clean up the remaining ones at our leisure.

Regen let the paper drop to the floor after finishing that. He was far too stunned to speak. The Empire knew of his heritage, but thankfully didn’t know about Fern. But she would be a target when these people targeted Frieren. And the fact that he was even on this list boggled his mind. Whoever these people were, Shadow Warriors or not, they thought he was equal to Frieren and Serie. “I find myself disagreeing with this list on sheer principle,” he remarked, drawing the attention of the room back to him. “I am placed as equally important to Magic as Mistresses Serie and Frieren. I may be good at a few things, but I’m not that good.”

Lernen and Falsch shared a look, but Serie spoke, though not to him, “I thought you said you were working on the self-deprecating aspect of Regen, Sense?”

Sense flushed as Regen raised an eyebrow, “It can be difficult when it is the pot calling the kettle black,” she replied.

Kelle flicked her daughter’s forehead, drawing amused looks from everyone and a noise of surprise from the woman herself, “Twenty-seven years together and you two are more perfect for each other and alike than you realise,” she remarked as Sense rubbed her forehead.

Regen chuckled at the pout Sense gave her mother as she left their side and plopped herself in his lap. He ran his hand through her hair as he lay his chin on her shoulder; they were, there was no denying that now. Weizen, on the other hand, pressed on. “This matter goes far beyond the theft of enough money to sustain a small noble house for a generation, which is already not a small matter. We’re looking at a group that wants to destroy magic, in its entirety.”

Serie frowned, “If no one was on this list and they were merely contenting themselves calling Flamme a witch, they would still be on my kill list. As it stands, this group is at the top of it now,” she replied before looking to Falsch, “We need to lock down the facility. At the very least, we need to vet the entire staff. Someone here is feeding intel to this group, and I want them found before it’s no longer just intel they’re doing.”

Falsch nodded, then Serie looked to Regen, “I’ll have a letter to send to Frieren, encoded in High Elvish so she’ll be the only one able to read it. I’d like to send it with your next letter to them to avoid suspicions.”

Regen nodded, “I intend to send another letter tomorrow. If you can be ready by then, I’ll send it off.”

Serie nodded then looked to Weizen, “If you have nothing else, I’ll leave the spell up. It should last another four or so hours,” she remarked, receiving a shake of the head as a response. Then she looked to Regen, “When you’re done being sweet to your not wife wife, that poison won’t analyse itself.”

Hours later, after extricating himself from his not-yet-Goodfather and Goodmother, Regen entered one of his old laboratories. Now that he rarely taught structured classes, the laboratories were seldom used. Maybe once a month or more if a mage needed to brew, but many were brewing in their own homes, so they didn’t need the large room. As such, it was usually empty.

Not today.

Regen started when he saw Lawine sitting at one of the counters with her head down. After checking and seeing that there were no brews in progress, he furrowed his brow and approached her. As he drew closer, he noticed that she was asleep, which deepened his frown. Was she not sleeping? Surely Kanne would have said something to either him or Sense if that was the case. Ever since they had received their Apprentice Quarters, they started living there together. Lawine’s family didn’t care, most likely, probably figuring that it was normal. Kanne’s family, on the other hand, would visit the girls often. So, again, if something was off, they should have noticed. Just as he was about to shake Lawine awake, she woke of her own accord, though with terror in her eyes and a scream emanating from her lungs. “Lawine!” Regen exclaimed, “Easy, easy. It’s just me.”

Lawine took several deep, shaky breaths. That prompted Regen to conjure a stool beside her and to wrap his arms around her, “Easy. You’re safe. Whatever was terrorising you in your sleep won’t get you here.”

Lawine buried herself into his embrace. She was normally unflappable, unless it involved Kanne, then she was much like how he was with Sense. When she started to even out her breathing, Regen looked at her with a soft expression, “Would you like to talk about it? It might help.”

Lawine looked down, “Not particularly,” she murmured before laying her head on his chest. “I-I just see the Tomb and my bottle shattering, but the Golem doesn’t work.”

Regen blinked. “Lawine, please tell me you haven’t been suffering in silence for a year,” he asked before feeling her tense up. “Not even Kanne?”

Lawine let a few tears slip through her mask, “How could I?” she whispered. “Every time, the last thought I have before I wake up is that I wish I could have been with Kanne forever.”

Regen rubbed her back, but what Lawine said next shattered his heart: “Kanne’s always been a sound sleeper, so she sleeps through my night terrors and never says anything.”

That scuppered his plans for the day; his apprentice needed help, and that took priority. First things first, he needed to get her back to his quarters, which, thankfully, weren’t that far. That said, she also wasn’t in any condition to walk under her own power. So, using his recent and not-so-recent experience in carrying Sense around, he scooped up Lawine and left the laboratory. Lawine stirred in his arms slightly, but not enough to protest at being carried. In fact, she fell back asleep before they reached his quarters. That worried him. If she had been suffering from these nightmares for about the last year, then how much sleep had she got? And he may not have had much experience in carrying teenage girls around in his arms as they slept, but she felt disturbingly light. Like, she would blow away in a mild breeze, light.

Once he finally reached his quarters, he had to use his mana to open the door as he didn’t dare adjust Lawine in his arms, unwilling to disturb her sleep. Inside, Sense and her mother were sitting with Kanne, and they all jumped to their feet when they saw Regen walk in with Lawine in his arms. “What happened?” Sense asked.

Lawine stirred, but didn’t wake. “Quiet!” Regen hissed. “She’s not been sleeping well for a while now. And she usually doesn’t wake of her own volition.”

Sense and Kanne furrowed their brows, but Sense’s mother raised her eyebrows before walking over and relieving Regen of his burden, “I’ll lay her in your bedroom, if that’s alright?”

Regen nodded, “That was the plan, Lady Kelle,” he whispered back.

Kelle took Lawine back to the bedroom, and a sharp glance was exchanged between them once she realised the same thing that he had on his walk there. Once she was gone, however, Sense raised an eyebrow, “My question stands, Regen,” she remarked quietly.

Regen rubbed his eyes before walking over to a locked cupboard and opening it. Kanne looked over to Sense, who would only appear even more confused before Regen turned around with a tray in his hands and three glasses of some amber liquid and a bottle of the same on it. “Regen?” Sense asked, almost warningly.

Regen waved off the tone of her voice, however, “For what I am about to tell you, you’ll be glad for the drink, as will Kanne, I suspect. And I am willing to overlook her youth this once.” He replied before setting the tray down and handing each girl a glass, taking one for himself. “Lawine has been having nightmares, presumably every night, about the Second Test last year, wherein her golem doesn’t work.”

Sense’s eyebrows shot up, and Kanne’s eyes widened, “Since then?” Sense asked, drawing a nod from Regen. Then, both adults knocked back their glasses in one go.

Kanne was no slouch either, putting it all together anyway. She looked horrified at the implications, “Why didn’t I know?” she whispered, half to herself.

Regen frowned as he poured more for himself and Sense, “You, apparently, slept through it all, and I wouldn’t doubt that some level of pride and stubbornness played a role,” he replied. “It’s not like the mind is well understood. Even less so amongst mages.”

Kanne frowned, but Sense opened her mouth to say something, but Regen cut her off, “Your spell is a mere cover. It does not address the underlying issue.”

Sense hummed, “But it would allow her some rest, so that way we could address it effectively.”

Regen sighed and leaned back, suddenly feeling far older than he was. Indeed, there were no good options available to them. When Kanne left to join Lawine, Sense moved to sit on his lap and nestled her head on his shoulder, “Everything is piling up for her, and it only looks to be getting worse, what with the conspiracy in the Empire and the hit on you.”

Regen shut his eyes and nuzzled her cheek, “I didn’t even mention that. If only there were a way to keep them safe from all of this, but they’ll likely become targets when this group goes after me.”

Sense hummed, and they stayed like that. When Lady Kelle discovered them in that state several hours later, she simply laid a blanket over the sleeping pair. Their situation had become significantly more difficult for them.

Notes from the running of the Äußerst Facility:

Report from Imperial Mage Denken, First Class Mage, to the Great Mage Serie regarding the situation in the Golden Lands, dated the 11 ^th  day of the 8 ^th  month, 80 ADK. And her response, 12.8.80 ADK

Mistress Serie,

I arrived in Weise some time ago. There was a slight hope that my course of action would bear fruit, but alas, it has not borne out. I have had many conversations with Macht, all in the hope that I could either convince him to reverse the transformation of the land or gain some insight into a method that might allow me to remove him from existence permanently. Unfortunately, until the arrival of Mistress Frieren and her party, I had concluded that there was nothing more to gain and was preparing myself to take on my final mission.

Mistress Frieren is currently sifting through all of Macht’s memories and thus remains effectively comatose. The process is estimated by both myself and young Miss Fern to take the next two months.

Speaking of Miss Fern, she believes she has sensed a foe, but it is difficult to tell.

Denken-11.8.80 ADK

Denken,

Do whatever you think you must. However, do NOT , under any circumstances, think about meeting your wife.

Serie-12.8.80 ADK

Chapter Text

Regen could only just manage to keep his face neutral by now. Today was shaping up to be… interesting.

First, a letter arrived from Denken, detailing the defeat of Macht and Solitär and the restoration of the Golden Lands to their former state, including their residents. Mistress Serie was deeply shocked by that news, having previously determined the restoration of the land and its people to be impossible. However, when they learned it was Mistress Frieren who had accomplished the feat, they were suddenly less surprised. It seemed Mistress Frieren was destined always to accomplish the impossible.

Then, he observed with Mistress Serie as Lernen and Falsch vetted various members of the staff. A time-consuming process bore fruit today as they uncovered a spy within their ranks. Their spy had been one of the more senior staff members, which mildly shook them both.

Now, he sat with Mistress Serie in her office with a cup of tea in hand, trying his best not to stare as Serie sat in Methode’s lap and, for lack of a better word, was being petted like a cat. As far as he knew, for the past year, Serie had done her utmost to avoid Methode. However, once they had arrived at her office, she specifically summoned the woman and had seated herself in her lap upon her arrival. If she started purring, Regen was going to retreat to his quarters and wouldn’t leave for a few days, if he could help it.

Lernen and Falsch were with them and appeared equally befuddled. However, Lernen at least didn’t let what they had learnt slip from his mind, “I find it puzzling that someone from the Association would willingly work with a group determined to destroy all influence of magic,” he remarked.

Regen hummed, “Are we even sure that he wasn’t planted here?” he asked. “Was he always working for the Shadow Warriors, or did he become radicalised?”

Falsch grimaced, “All of my previous interactions would indicate the former.” He replied as the door opened and one of the younger students entered, bearing a note which they handed to Regen before leaving. “He always seemed bitter about not having the aptitude for magic.”

Serie made a noise that sounded suspiciously like a purring cat, but then spoke up, “It cannot be helped if someone doesn’t have a well of mana to draw from,” she said before noticing Regen’s rapidly paling expression, “Regen?”

Regen stood suddenly and started for the door. “I have to go. Lawine’s mother collapsed, and Sense and both our apprentices are with her right now.”

Serie’s brows shot up before she stood up, “Go, Methode. Maybe you can help,” she ordered.

Methode nodded, but had to break out into a sprint to catch up with Regen. His cloak billowed behind him as he rushed through the halls and then the streets. The weather was brisk, and a light snowfall was dusting the town as they arrived at Lawine’s family home. Just as Regen was about to enter, one of Lawine’s brothers opened the door for them, the eldest one, Forscher, “Master Regen, good timing. I was just coming to find you.” He said, ushering them in and leading them towards the main room.

Methode took in the scene at a glance. Lawine’s mother was lying on the couch while the family all took what seats they could, trying to be as close as possible to her. “What precisely happened?” she asked, “Don’t leave anything out. It may help with a diagnosis.”

The lad nodded and rubbed his brow, “Mother and I were doing some cleaning when she said she felt dizzy. She was going to sit down when she just collapsed.”

Lawine’s father then spoke up, “The last few days she has been complaining of feeling tired for the last few days and has had a nasty cough.” He said before looking to Methode and Regen with tired eyes.

Regen looked to Methode, “It has been unseasonably cold out these last few days, which is saying something,” he remarked.

Methode nodded and began casting over Lawine’s mother. She quickly stopped; however, “I suspected as much: Pneumonia.”

Everyone winced at that. There was no spell or such for a straight cure. “I should have some potions already made to help,” Regen remarked.

Forscher rose at that, “I can lend you a hand with that,” he offered.

Regen nodded and motioned for him to follow before passing Sense, who stood on the outside of the group. “I’ll be as quick as I can,” he whispered before pressing a kiss to her cheek. The pair quickly left and rushed back to the main faculty building, where the staff and high-ranking mages’ quarters were. “I doubt you’ve come into this part of the facility before,” Regen remarked as they entered.

Forscher shook his head, both in answer and to shake the snow off his head. “Can’t say that I have. I’d imagine that I never would normally.”

Regen raised an eyebrow and glanced at him, “Lawine has quarters here. You do know you’re allowed to visit family and friends, right?”

Forscher blinked blankly. “No?” he replied. “The rest of the family and I thought that it would be looked down upon if we attempted to visit Lawine.”

Now Regen looked surprised, “Kanne’s family visit about every third or fourth day,” he revealed, “Generally speaking, so long as you are not disruptive to lessons, be they in the classroom or apprentices learning from their masters, visitors are encouraged.”

Forscher flushed, “We thought that, because Lawine was being taught directly by an apprentice of the Great Mage Serie, it would have been impossible.”

Regen shrugged, “The times when Mistress Serie was teaching Lawine and Kanne, because I was away on a mission or was forced to take a break, perhaps. I am unsure of what Mistress Serie’s policy on that is, but for myself and Sense, we welcome family along. I mean, Kanne’s parents have sat in on our lessons and had tea with Sense’s own parents whilst they watched us.”

Forscher blinked and, as they arrived at Regen’s storeroom of potions, Regen was content to let him stew in his thoughts. It was better that they come out fully formed rather than half-baked. It allowed him to search through his supplies and find what he was looking for. Once he had collected about two weeks' worth of potions, they began their walk back. Once they left the room, however, Forscher spoke again, “How much tension has there been that could have been solved by my family just talking to each other, I wonder?”

Regen raised an eyebrow and glanced at the lad, who quickly explained, “Did you not find it strange that Lawine is nearly a decade younger than her youngest sibling?” he replied. “We lost three of my siblings before Lawine came along, two of them stillborn, while one passed away a day after being born.”

Regen’s eyebrows shot into his hairline, but Forscher continued, “When Lawine was born, we perhaps forgot that she was her own person, rather than a dress-up doll. But we were so blinded by the sheer miracle that was her survival.”

Regen hummed, many things making sense now. But he finally spoke again, “Lad, I’m not the one you should be telling this to.”

Forscher nodded, and they continued in silence. They quickly returned to the home and Regen administered the first dose of his potions, “Now, you’ll be taking these every four hours.” he said, holding up a vial of green liquid to both Lawine’s mother and her father, “The blue ones are for if the coughing gets bad and you start coughing up blood. You’ll take one after finishing your coughing fit.”

They nodded, though Lawine’s mother did so slowly. “The best case scenario would have you recover in a week or two. You’ll be taking the potions until I see improvement, however. That could mean a month or more.”

When he saw agreement on both their faces, he forced himself to appear relaxed. “There’s an excellent chance you’ll come through this fine. I wouldn’t worry,” he finished before exiting the room.

When he reached the dining room, only Sense was there, which allowed all the tension in his shoulders to release. When he sat with her, she took his hand and gently rubbed it. She knew that he was putting on a slight show. In truth, the potions helped alleviate the symptoms; it was up to the body to put its energy into fighting the pneumonia.

Notes on the running of the Äußerst Facility:

Translation of a note from Great Mage Serie to Great Mage Frieren, and her response, 1st day of the 2nd month, 81 ADK.

Frieren,

It has recently come to my attention that you are moving into the lands around the Imperial Capitol. If this is the case, I advise caution.

It turns out that the Shadow Warriors are not as disbanded as we were led to believe. More importantly, their, relatively for us, recent defeat of Minus seems to have given them a purpose which led to their disbanding: the destruction of magic. I have people looking into the specifics now, but, based on the evidence we've collected, they have decided that killing three people will be enough to cause magic and mages to disappear. Those targets are you, me, and Regen. You because you defeated the Demon King and are a powerful mage in your own right. Me, because of course. Regen, on the other hand, is being targeted because of his descent from Flamme, which makes me wonder about the attack on Boden. So far as we can tell, they do not know about Fern. I leave it up to you how much you tell her.

Frieren, I know that we have never gotten along. In fact, you would be well within your rights to hate me. But for the sake of the woman who touched both our lives so much, we should work together. I intend to have Ü bel, Land, Falsch, Sense, Regen, Lawine, and Kanne join us. I propose that we set a trap.

Serie

Serie,

Death awaits them. I will see you then.

Frieren

Chapter Text

It had been a tense week, and an even tenser office that Regen and Sense walked into. Admittedly, a large part, if not all, of the tension came from them. Lawine's mother had not been improving despite all the potions that Regen had been administering. About all that could be said was that the situation was stabilising. But not stable. Which made Serie's summons even more stressful. It didn't help matters much when Lernen and Falsch were joining them, as it only heightened the seriousness of the situation. “What is the situation?” Regen asked.

Serie frowned, “The Shadow Warriors. So far as we can tell, they will try to strike against me at the Foundation Ball. I want to set a trap for them there.”

Regen rubbed his chin. The idea was a good one. But it wasn't the easiest thing to swallow, “The Ball is two weeks away. And for some reason, I feel like they would see through us.”

Falsch hummed but spoke, “Then we give them a target they cannot resist.”

Regen's eyes widened, “You cannot possibly mean… surely they wouldn't.”

Sense wasn't quite following, but Serie nodded, “With myself, Frieren and you, they surely will be eager. I would not be surprised if they would send all of their forces.”

Regen frowned, “That's what I am worried about.” He muttered. “I don't think our apprentices should come, especially with her mother's condition.”

Serie furrowed her brow. “They could use the distraction.” She replied.

Regen disagreed, “There is still no assurance that her mother will survive.” He replied, “It might be a human thing, but people generally want to be close to their loved ones if they pass away.”

Lernen agreed, “Besides, in theory, the Imperial Magic Special Forces should be on your side.”

Regen snorted, “Those jumped-up illusionists couldn’t guard a pasture with sheer cliffs surrounding it,” he retorted before leaning forward, “So, besides us, who will be part of this mission?”

Serie frowned, as she really wanted the girls to come along, as she was becoming rather fond of them. Shaking her head clear, she gestured to Lernen, “Lernen will remain behind, since someone needs to run things here, but other than that, I have sent word for Frieren’s party as well as Übel and Land to join us.”

Regen leaned back and hummed, “Six First-Class Mages and a pair of Great Mages would be enough for most to have second thoughts. Add in Stark’s prowess as a warrior, and surely they would see it as suicide?”

Serie smirked, “Most people these days don’t understand the meaning of the Holy Emblem, Lernen is one exception,” she replied, “As for the rest, well, they killed Minus, so I doubt that anything would deter them. Humans, in my experience, get cocky.”

Regen mulled it over, but Sense spoke up, “Frieren has also reunited with their Priest, Sein. So we’ll have a good healer at our side too.”

Regen nodded, “We’ll have to leave first thing tomorrow if we want time to prepare in the Capital,” he mused before standing, “I’ll inform the girls and give some further instructions about what to do whilst we are gone.”

Regen looked around his dreamworld in some confusion. As far as he knew, he, Flasch, Sense and Serie were due in the Imperial Capital in the morning, and he was still asleep in the carriage that was taking them there. More importantly, there was a lone figure by the tree on the hill that the dream was guiding him towards. A familiar figure, “Lady Flamme. It’s been a while.”

Flamme smiled gently, “Two years, by my count. I wish I could have come sooner, but the Power That Be has decided against my direct interference as much as possible. I was only able to arrange this more through the pleas of Himmel the Hero than my own.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, “Why would the Goddess be turned from her path by one man’s pleas, even if that man is Himmel the Hero?”

Flamme smirked, “The Goddess has a soft spot for Frieren, and Himmel by extension. Something I’m not allowed to tell you until you get here on your own time.” She replied before stepping closer to Regen. “I can tell from up here that you’re nervous about the Ball.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, “An assassination attempt is likely on Mistress Serie by a group targeting mages in general and her, Frieren and myself in particular. Fern will also be present and, if they can rub two brain cells together, they’ll target her as well. So yeah, a little nervous.”

Flamme smirked, “That is not what I was referring to; you are all well prepared for that. I was referring to you and Sense.”

Regen flushed, “Ah, yes, it will be the first time in a very long time that the two of us will be at a formal function, and the first time since we started courting.” he remarked before exhaling, “Yeah, I’m a little nervous about that, assuming of course that we get that far into the festivities.”

Flamme chuckled and ruffled his hair, “If I can tell you anything about the Nobles of the Empire, it’s that they won’t let anything get in the way of partying,” she replied, a smile on her face as Regen straightened his hair again. “I look forward to watching the Afterparty.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, “Afterparty?” he asked.

Unfortunately, Regen woke up at that moment. His puzzled expression drew questions from Serie, the only one awake at that early hour. “Flamme looks forward to the Afterparty,” he replied.

Serie raised an eyebrow before shaking her head, “That girl has gotten cryptic in death,” she muttered, “How is planning going for the Ball?”

Regen rubbed his eyes, “Poorly,” he ground out, “You know, better than I, how much the nobles of the Empire dislike magic. Even if the Shadow Warriors were not in play, I would still expect an ambush, so I have been considering everyone being an enemy.”

Serie’s lips twitched in amusement. She did know better than he how distrustful the human Empire was of magic. She supposed it had been a major miracle that Flamme had founded the Imperial Mages Order a thousand years ago, and the foundation of the Empire’s Magic Special Forces some twenty years ago was its own fascinating matter. But she then spoke up, “Lord Eiseburg is a friend, so Lineal says,” she replied.

Regen hummed. The Lord of the Imperial Capital, and thus the leader of its security forces, had been at the forefront of improving Imperial/Mage relations. Something that Lineal had been the catalyst for, he suspected, since his tone started to shift once she joined his staff. Part of Sense’s official duties was being the Continental Magic Association’s spymaster; unofficially, he handled those duties more often than not due to the sheer volume of reports coming in. When Regen mentioned his suspicion, Serie raised an eyebrow, “Do you think she’s compromised herself by doing that?” she asked.

Regen paused, another report coming to mind, “I do not believe that Lineal is consciously influencing Lord Eiseburg. Rather, I suspect that her mere presence is enough to get him to change his tune.” when Serie’s eyebrow only raised further, he elaborated, “From my understanding, Lord Eiseburg has a desire to please Lineal, a desire that the Court can plainly see. But where they believe it to merely be a Lord rewarding a valued underling, I’ve read reports that suggest that his desires come from a more… intimate desire.”

Serie rolled her eyes, “So Lord Eiseburg desires to have Lineal in his bed. Preferably undressed,” she remarked, Regen flushing slightly at the blunt summary. “Has she acquiesced to his desires? It would provide her with an ally and with blackmail, should that be necessary.”

Regen shook his head, “So far as I have seen, Lineal has kept their relationship strictly professional, though it would seem that she is wavering in that regard,” he replied, “Some believe that this festival may give her the incentive to give in, especially since, as far as my sources can tell, she has similar desires.”

Serie rolled her eyes again, “I am surrounded by dense idiots,” she muttered.

Regen chuckled, “In this case, it is more a matter of the fact that it would be… improper for her to start sleeping with her boss rather than being dense, like Sense and I.”

Serie shook her head, “You humans are strange: what should it matter if they are sharing a bed? So long as they keep things professional in public, it shouldn’t matter.”

Regen huffed, “Humans rarely can do that. There’s also the fact that many people would take advantage of their relationship, and besides, break-ups can be messy.”

Serie blinked before shaking her head, “I forget that, unlike Elves, you humans do have ways out of relationships. For us Elves, we only move on after the death of our lovers, and even then, most don’t,” she remarked, turning mournfully at the end.

Regen hummed. That wasn’t that surprising for an immortal being, he supposed. “If I may: Who were they?” he asked.

Serie turned to face him and raised an eyebrow, “Why do you ask?” she countered.

Regen shrugged, “In the south, we believe that so long as someone is around to remember your name, and speak it on the wind, you never truly die,” he replied, “I suppose that is why there are so many adventurers from the southern lands.”

Serie hummed, and, for a moment, Regen thought that would be the end of it, but then Serie suddenly spoke, “Her name was Secreto. She was much my opposite; whereas I could be stern and harsh, she was kind and gentle. Wherever she went, she became the most popular person in the village.” she replied with a smile on her face, “Sometimes, when the wind is right, I can still hear her laugh.”

Regen’s expression softened; he imagined that in decades to come, he would look much the same as Serie did at that moment. Her eyes were focused not on what was in front of her, but on some distant memory, something that no one living could ever know. “What happened to her?” he asked quietly.

Serie’s face darkened, “Demons.” she spat, “Bastards barreled into the village that we were staying the winter in and began slaughtering everyone. Secreto rushed in to defend everyone she could while I tried to distract them.” she said before looking down and allowing a tear to form in her eye, “She died in my arms and I killed every Demon who had been in the raid. But the world looked grey for thousands of years until I found Flamme. In a way, Flamme was much like Secreto, and I do not doubt that they would have gotten along famously.”

Regen’s lips twitched, but soon Serie shook her head clear of memories, “But we should probably discuss further how you think we can avoid my reunion with Secreto when we meet with Frieren today. I understand she is waiting for us.”

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

A letter from First-Class Mage Methode to First-Class Mage Regen, 11 ^th  day of the 2 ^nd  month, 81 ADK.

Master Regen,

Lady Blume has not quite made a full recovery, but is well on her way. However, I write to you not only for this update but to tell of an experience had by your apprentices.

Kanne was the first to come to me, three days ago, with a vision: A Mage with Flame-Orange Hair told her that she, her family and those around her MUST make their way to Eiseburg. An Afterparty would be held that we should attend.

I was about to dismiss it entirely, but then Lawine approached me later that day with the same vision. When I asked if Kanne had told her about it, she shook her head negatively, and I sensed no deception from her.

Still, I thought little of it. After all, Lady Blume was still not quite well enough for me to allow her to travel, especially further northwards. Until that night, I had the same vision, with some differences. The Mage introduced herself as a grandmother of yours, and stated that, if we left not the coming morning, but the one after, we would make it after all the danger had passed and would arrive in time for the celebrations.

I do not know what celebrations are being held, but at this time, I cannot deny that something  powerful is guiding us. We are all on our way: myself, Kanne and her family, and Lawine and hers. We should arrive by the morning of the 17 ^th , the morning after the Foundation Festival Ball.

We pray for your success in your mission and look forward to our arrival.

Methode, First-Class Mage

Chapter Text

Regen glanced across the room as Sense briefed the entire team on the mission. They had united with Frieren and her party earlier in the day and had quietly made their way to their rooms in the Großer Weißer Palast von Eiseburg hotel. Now they met in Serie’s own room, as it was the largest, to discuss the event before them. Sense was bringing them up to speed regarding what they knew when Falsch handed him a folder. “What have we here?” He murmured, opening it and seeing pictures and reports attached.

Falsch whispered back the answer: “All available information that MSF had on operatives of the Shadow Warriors,” he replied, seeing Regen thumbing through everything, “It lines up with what our intelligence has suggested, so I am inclined to lend it some credence.”

Regen hummed, “Those illusionists actually managed something. Next, you’ll tell me that the Empire wishes to ally with us,” he murmured. There wasn’t much in the papers, but it did confirm for them that there were only ten Shadow Warriors in play, including whoever was commanding this outfit. It was unfortunate that only five had photos, but considering the difficulty in that sort of magic, that wasn’t entirely surprising.

He eventually tuned back in to Sense’s briefing. Just in time too, “… Tomorrow, Regen, Mistress Serie, and Mistress Frieren will be meeting with Lord Eiseburg to finalise preparations. The day after that is the Ball, so be prepared,” she said before looking at him, “Regen, anything else?”

Regen spread out the folder on the table before everyone, “Study these reports and pictures. Both our intelligence and MSF conclude that these are the Shadow Warriors we will have to face. We’ll give copies to Lord Eiseburg to distribute amongst his guards, if they haven’t received this intel yet.”

Everyone made noises of assent, but Stark spoke up, “Just how important is Lord Eiseburg? Beyond the normal importance of nobility. Will we need to consider his protection?” he asked.

Regen rubbed his chin, “It would be a good idea to keep an eye on him, yes,” he muttered, then he shook his head clear, “As for his importance? Due to the… complex succession situation of the Empire, should something happen to the Emperor, then Lord Eiseburg would become the next Emperor.”

That quieted everyone; not even Übel made a snarky comment. Many knew, even if they weren’t part of the Empire, about how the Imperial Family had been beset by tragedy after tragedy. If you were pedantic enough to trace the lineages, Lord Eiseburg was indeed the closest living male relative to the Emperor; however, saying that they were closely related was a misnomer, as their linking ancestor was a great-great-grandfather. However, Regen continued, “However, even now, the Shadow Warriors may yet be the least of our issues. The political situation of the Empire is… fraught,” he said before looking each of the mages in the eye, “The Empire, even with MSF and the Imperial Mages, has been distrustful of mages since before Flamme’s time. And the young Emperor is on the extreme end of the spectrum. His late father and brothers were more moderate in their opinions, but Lord Eiseburg is perhaps our greatest ally in this regard, so yet another reason to watch over him.”

It was then that Übel finally spoke, having remained silent for the rest of the discussion, “So in other words: we will be heading into an arena where pretty much everyone wants us dead or gone in some way. And we have to make merry instead of war,” she summed up.

Regen hummed, “An accurate assessment,” he remarked before smirking, “However, if there is one thing nobility hates more than magic, it’s an interruption to a party. So I doubt that most would aid the Shadow Warriors in their goal, merely attempt to benefit from it politically.”

Everyone hummed, but Fern looked to her master, “Mistress Frieren? Do you have any experiences that might be of help here from when the Heroes’ Party came north?” she asked.

Frieren grimaced, “Unfortunately, the only encounter we had with the nobility of the Empire was a hostile one,” she revealed, drawing everyone’s attention. “We had passed through Eiseburg on our way north, and the guards attempted to detain me purely because I was a mage. In their eyes, I was a Demon Worshiper, so had to be put to the sword.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, but it was Sein who asked the question on everyone’s minds: “So how did you escape?”

Frieren got a faraway look in her eyes before blinking and responding, “Himmel disarmed the guards. Permanently,” she said, drawing even more raised eyebrows and gasps of surprise. “By this time, we were well-known adventurers and, according to the others, should have been allowed through without fuss. It was for that fact alone that we managed to escape, though we kept our heads on a swivel when near Imperial territory again.”

Regen snorted, “I doubt I would be so restrained, should something similar occur to Sense,” he mused.

Frieren raised an eyebrow, but didn’t say anything. Very little was said for the rest of the night, save for the occasional bit of idle chatter, and they went to bed that night with the hope of a calm mission in their future.

Lineal rubbed her eyes as she looked over the plans for the Foundation Ball by candlelight. Though the hour was late, she could not let a single thing be out of place, and she had only until midday tomorrow to rectify any issues. With the Emperor, Lord Eiseburg and Mistress Serie in attendance, along with Lady Frieren of the Heroes’ Party and, by all accounts, the three most powerful mages in Frieren’s apprentice, Regen and Sense, acting as Serie’s escort, not a thing could threaten them, lest the proportional response be the destruction of half the ballroom.

The door suddenly opening had her palming her dagger, prepared to throw, before Lord Eiseburg entered the room, “Lineal? It’s late. There is as much value in a proper night’s rest as there is in diligently looking over plans until morning,” he remarked, trying to stifle a yawn.

Lineal bowed her head, “Apologies, My Lord. But with the threat being so present, I wanted to make sure that everything would go off without any issues.”

Lord Eiseburg hummed, “I understand that, but there is something to be said about your work ethic. Though normally admirable, in this case, you are neglecting yourself.” He remarked before looking over her notations. “You’ve placed the Emperor and Lady Serie on opposite ends of the room?”

Lineal nodded, “Yes, My Lord. Considering His Grace’s opinions on Mistress Flamme and Lady Serie’s connection to her, along with Lady Frieren’s, I thought it best to keep them as separated as possible. We have enough on our plates as it stands with the Shadow Warriors; we don’t need the Emperor starting a diplomatic incident with the Master of the Legendary Mage Flamme.”

Lord Eiseburg nodded, “In truth, I would prefer it if the Emperor skipped the ball,” he revealed. “Tensions are already high with the Continental Magic Association, and not everyone in the Empire hates mages as much as he.”

Lineal nodded, but Lord Eiseburg continued, “In that case, I would have you escort me to the ball. So we might counter any issues quickly.”

Lineal was very proud of herself when she limited her reaction to merely widening her eyes, rather than gaping like a fish or running up to him and kissing him senseless. “M-me? My Lord?” she stammered, “I-I am honoured, but I would have thought that you would have had one of the many ladies pressing for a night escort you. As a way to silence them.”

Lord Eiseburg snorted, “No, I would be miserable. And I would rather not spend any more time than absolutely necessary with those airheaded flatterers,” he replied. “Besides, I could not ask for better company for the evening.”

Now, Lineal was very glad that she was trained to keep her reactions well hidden, as she was sure that her face would have been as red as a freshly forged sword. Then Lord Eiseburg spoke again, “Go to bed. That’s an order.”

Lineal bowed her head and left the room for her own quarters. She, however, did not cease in her thoughts. This Ball was perhaps the greatest confluence of tension and concerns that would grace Eiseburg for the next century. Every landed noble of the Empire would be present, and, when coupled with Mistress Serie’s party, if nothing went wrong, she was going to walk up to Lord Eiseburg and take a leap of faith. At that point, her luck would be astronomical, so why not take a career-ending gamble?

She nodded to the guard outside her chambers before entering. However, before she could dress for bed, she noticed a box on her desk that hadn’t been there that morning, nor was she expecting anything. “Guard? Has anyone been in my quarters?” she called out.

The guardsman walked in with a raised eyebrow, “Not since I’ve started my shift. What is wrong?” he asked, hand on his sword’s hilt.

She pointed at the box, “That wasn’t there this morning, nor am I expecting anything.”

The guard frowned before approaching the box, “Best stand back, milady. Just in case.” He said before gently opening it and recoiling in horror. “Outside! Now!”

Lineal’s eyes widened, but she caught a glimpse of the contents of the box before the guard escorted her out. Inside the box was a severed head. A severed elf’s head.

Several moments later, Lord Eiseburg and a company of guards were in her rooms, beginning the investigation. “You’re certain that no one has been in or out of this wing of the palace?” he asked the Captain of the Guards.

The Captain nodded, “Aye, Milord. Barring yourself and Lady Lineal, no one outside of the guards has been through this wing of the Palace.”

Lord Eiseburg frowned, “Which means there’s a mole or our enemy has pull over the guards,” he muttered. Then he looked to Lineal, “How are you holding up?”

Lineal frowned, “Confused more than anything. If they could do this, why didn’t they leave me an explosive package? Why leave the severed head of an Elf?”

Lord Eiseburg grimaced, “Because that is not just any elf. That is the severed head of Minus. The Great Mage whom the Shadow Warriors killed some years ago.”

Lineal caught on quickly, “Which means that they are sending a message that they’ve killed one Great Mage; nothing is stopping them from killing the remaining two, now that they are both in the same place at the same time.”

Lord Eiseburg nodded, “And that our own security is flawed. And we have little to no time to fix it.”

Lineal hummed, but Lord Eiseburg rubbed his brow, “Well… shit.”

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

Planned Notice of Death for Mistress Serie, as written by the Great Mage herself, should she fall at the Foundation Ball, written on the 12^th day of the 2^nd month, 81 ADK, two days before the ball.

To all members of the Continental Magic Association:

If this is being sent out, then it means that I, the leader of the Association, the Great Mage Serie, have been killed in an assassination attempt aimed at destabilising Mages everywhere. It is my fervent hope that I am the only casualty of the attempt and that all others who were my guards yet live. Should any of them still live, I ask of you and them not to blame them for my death. I also pray that I have removed the threat from the rest of you, even at the cost of my own life.

I hope to leave the Association in capable hands, should I perish. That is why I name the Great Mage Frieren, First-Class Mage Sense and First-Class Mage Regen as my successors. I suspect that it may be some time before Frieren is willing to take on the position, and her relative youth when compared to me will be daunting for everyone involved, but I would not name her if she wasn’t able to rise to the challenge. Sense and Regen will also be there to run things, much as they have been doing for some time now, merely with more responsibility.

I know that each and every one of you will do the Association proud. I shall be watching with pride from Aureole.

Serie

Chapter Text

Serie raised an eyebrow, “They left you a box with Minus’ head in it? And not an explosive?”

Lineal grimaced, but Lord Eiseburg nodded, “Yes, though it might have been a more impactful message than an explosive would have been,” he remarked.

Serie curled her nose, “Minus was dangerous to both of us, but not nearly as powerful as Frieren, much less me.”

Frieren raised an eyebrow from her seat beside her fellow elf, “How do you figure that? From what I understand, she was at least ten times my senior.”

Serie huffed, “She found thrill in battle. Didn’t matter what against, just as long as she was killing something or someone,” she remarked before looking at Frieren, “She never paid attention to anything outside of warfare.”

Frieren hummed, but Regen rubbed his chin. “So we now need to consider the Imperial Guard to be compromised. And MSF haven’t had the greatest working relationship with us for a very long time,” he murmured.

Lord Eiseburg grimaced, “Unfortunately, we believe that this was a very pointed message from the Shadow Warriors. They’ve proven that they’ve killed one Great Mage, and now we’ve brought the last two to the same place.”

Frieren looked confused, but kept quiet, and only Regen and Lineal noticed. Serie, on the other hand, blazed on, “I’ve already taken steps to prepare the CMA, should I fall tomorrow evening,” she revealed. “I’ve already prepared the notice for my death and put in it my appointed successors. I doubt any of them will be in any real peril.”

Regen frowned, remembering the argument that he and Serie had had the night before, as she dictated it to him. Lord Eiseburg blanched slightly, “I… suppose it is a prudent measure.”

Regen snorted, unable to smother it. “Perhaps,” he remarked, drawing the attention of the table, “But two of her three successors are on this side of the table. And her third is part of the escort.”

Frieren gaped at that, but Lineal was the one who spoke first, “Considering the exploits of Lady Frieren along with the fact that you are no slouch when it comes to your own magic, is there some concern over your third member?”

Serie cut in before Regen could speak, “I have no concerns, otherwise I would not have named Frieren, Regen and Sense as my successors,” she remarked before looking pointedly at Regen, “The only concern I have is that humans don’t live forever, and neither you nor Sense are in a teenage courtship. She’s waiting for you to propose to her.”

Regen rolled his eyes; this was a common topic when he spoke with Serie, or Sense’s parents, or their apprentices, or anyone, for that matter. The only one who made no mention of the idea was Sense herself, knowing full well that he wanted the moment to be something special for the both of them. But just then, Lord Eiseburg spoke, “Lineal, might you please take Master Regen and Lady Frieren for a moment? I wish to discuss certain… delicate matters with the Great Mage in private.”

Lineal bowed her head and led Regen and Frieren to another room, the Lord’s study, by the looks of it, “Forgive My Lord, he’s… been under a great amount of stress lately, and this matter regarding our security breach has only made things worse.” She said, pouring herself a glass of water.

Regen hummed, “Aye, I’m sure he wouldn’t let you out of his sight afterwards, entrusting your safety with himself and himself alone.”

Lineal flushed, “You would be correct to an extent. He certainly didn’t allow me to be apart from him for an extended period of time.”

Regen smirked, “Merely to refresh yourself, I’m sure. I wouldn’t be surprised if he gave up his own bed to you and sat in a chair for the night.”

Now, Lineal looked as though there was no blood anywhere in her body but her face, as she could only nod. That only caused Regen to chuckle harder, “The night before the first stage of the last First-Class Exam, Sense and I had been discussing matters and, when it became apparent that the hour was late, I was prepared to sleep on the sofa, surrendering my bed to her as I had done often before, but she refused, practically ordering me to calm down and join her in sleep.”

Lineal raised an eyebrow while Frieren looked as if she was recalling a past memory. “And was that when you two started courting?” Lineal asked.

Regen laughed, “No. My cowardly arse only confessed that I loved her when I got so in the weeds in assisting the applicants in the second stage that I completely blanked on the fact that Sense was right behind me.” he remarked before gesturing to Frieren, “Ironically, we can thank Mistress Frieren for that; if it hadn’t been for her Spiegal Clone stopping everyone, then I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to make my confession.”

Lineal looked to Frieren, but before she could ask, Frieren shook her head, “How strange…” she murmured, drawing Regen’s raised eyebrow, “When I was with the Heroes’ Party, I’d say about seven years into the journey, we had come upon an emergency shelter in a blizzard. However, there were only two beds and one sofa. Eisen took the sofa, and Heiter took one bed. Before Himmel could “nobly” grant me the bed to myself, I more or less did to him what you say Sense did to you that night, and we shared the last bed for a few nights before the storm let up,” she revealed. “I never thought anything of it until now.”

Regen raised an eyebrow as a sudden memory came to mind. “You… might be interested in this, perhaps,” he remarked, summoning a scroll from his cloak. “My family was behind most of the history books on the Heroes’ Party, and one of the first editions drew this note from Himmel himself. Despite its harsh tone, my parents treasured it until they died in the raids on Boden. I then took it as the only souvenir from my childhood.”

Frieren raised an eyebrow before accepting the scroll and reading it. Regen knew its contents by heart, so when Frieren’s grip on the scroll tightened, he knew she had reached the part he wanted to point out. “This letter was sent about half a year before Himmel passed,” he quietly remarked.

Tears didn’t well up in Frieren’s eyes; they flowed like a sprung dam. All she could say was one word: “Why?” through the tears.

Regen had a suspicion of what she was asking, “Why didn’t he tell you?” he asked, receiving a nod. “Well, I cannot speak for him; however, I can assume that he had a classic sense of inferiority when looking at you. So, though he loved you, he could never bring himself to say those words.”

That was enough to send Frieren to her knees; Lineal stood there, somewhat awkwardly, while Regen placed a hand on Frieren’s shoulder. They wouldn’t say anything until Serie left her conversation with Lord Eiseburg and departed for the Großer Weißer Palast von Eiseburg.

While Serie and Lord Eiseburg met, Sense returned to the Großer Weißer Palast von Eiseburg after collecting appropriate attire for the Ball. Much to her surprise, everyone except for herself and Stark had dresses or suits that were appropriate. That surprised her even more when she learnt that Frieren’s party had been at a social event some time ago. For her own part, it had been years since Sense had last needed a ballgown, and she had since outgrown it. She was just glad that the morning’s bout of nausea had subsided before Regen had woken up and hadn’t bothered her again. She hadn’t mentioned the issue to him yet, and it had been a problem for the last few days. But she suspected that it was just nerves; it was a stressful time for them.

The older of her companions chuckled, drawing Sense’s attention, “I’m glad that Fern and Stark sorted themselves out. I was going mad dealing with their antics, and I doubt I would have survived them dancing around each other tomorrow.”

Sense smiled, “You should tell Regen some of these stories, though Mistress Serie could tell you similar stories about Regen and I.”

Sein chuckled, “It truly is the privilege of the young,” he mused.

Sense raised an eyebrow, “You are not that old; certainly you cannot be much older than Regen and I.”

Sein hummed, “Thirty-four, but still, they’re not even allowed to drink in most places.”

Sense hummed absently as she thought about their colleague escorting their apprentices and their families to Eiseburg. “How long does Mistress Frieren plan to remain after the Ball?” she asked.

Sein shrugged, “You presume that Frieren makes plans,” he deadpanned.

Sense blinked, but before she could make a remark, she was hit with a powerful wave of nausea, powerful enough to send her hovering over a wastebasket. What felt like hours was really seconds until the nausea abated, large in part thanks to Sein’s quick reaction. Once Sense regained her bearings, Sein spoke, “How often and how long has this been happening?” he asked.

Sense sighed, “Only the last few days, no more than a week,” she replied before rubbing her eyes, “And it’s usually confined to the early morning before the sun is up.”

Sein hummed and guided her back to her room. “Curious. It could be nerves, that would be the easiest explanation.” He murmured as he pushed open the door.

Sense nodded, “That was my thought too, since I don’t feel any other ill effects.”

Sein looked at her with an unreadable expression. Then he spoke again, “Perhaps an odd question, and not one that you might be willing to answer a stranger asking it, but: when was the last time you bled?”

Sense blinked several times, cocking her head to the side. He wasn’t wrong; it was a very odd question. But, on the other hand, he was a priest; he had to consider every possibility. And now that she thought about it, she realised that she had missed the last two of her regular cycles.

Sein saw when the copper dropped for her, and she looked to her middle. “There’s a spell to confirm or deny it, if you’d like me to cast it,” he quietly said.

She merely nodded, not trusting her voice to speak. Sein obliged, and his face said more than his words. “My guess was right,” he murmured.

Sense didn’t even register her knees giving out on her, nor Sein getting her into a chair and taking one for himself until Regen returned. She had her entire attention taken by the fact that there was now a person inside of her, one that, by her best guess, would be in the world in seven or so months. “If I had just come to this conclusion earlier…” she groaned, “It would look suspicious to the Imperials if I were to disappear suddenly, especially after you and Stark had come with me to get myself a new dress and Stark a suit.”

Sein shrugged; he was tempted to light a smoke, but was deciding against that for Sense’s sake, though it would have made the tension he felt melt a bit. “Perhaps, but I get the impression that you don’t exactly play the “hapless damsel in distress” all that well. Nor do you take sitting around safely away from harm while Regen faces down death.”

Sense smiled and shut her eyes, “I don’t,” she replied, “When we were children, we were dared to go into the Halls of Balor. Or rather, Regen was, I followed after him.”

Sein nodded. He figured that was what had happened. He’d start leaning on Frieren after this mission to speed her up, if only so Fern could spend time with family for some part of her life.

Regen soon entered the room, raising an eyebrow at seeing Sein there, “Is everything alright?” he asked, concern plastered on his face.

Sein hummed, “Depends on your definition, I think,” he remarked before gesturing to Sense.

Sense fiddled with the hem of her dress for a moment before Regen took her hand and knelt beside her. Then she took a deep breath, “Regen, I’m pregnant.”

For a moment, time appeared to slow for the two of them. But quickly, Regen broke into a broad smile, tears in his eyes. “You’re certain?” he asked.

Sein spoke up, “I cast a spell that detects pregnancies on Sense when she recovered from a wave of nausea, and after I asked her if she could remember when she last bled, and it became clear from her face that it hadn’t been for a while.” he replied, “So, quite certain.”

Regen’s smile only grew, though it seemed impossible. “Then we’ll have to tell Fern and Serie, they’ll be excited,” he remarked before his smile faltered for a moment. “Though… Fern’s got her hands full with Frieren at the moment, so it might be a while before we can tell her.”

Sein raised an eyebrow, and Regen explained, “Himmel sent my parents a letter detailing where the first edition of their history of the Heroes’ Party went into the fanciful. In particular, his relationship with Frieren. As you might imagine…”

Sein rubbed his eyes, “Let me guess: her eyes sprang leaks?”

Regen grimaced but nodded. Sein just shook his head, “Well,” he sighed, “Maybe she’ll finally admit that she loved him now.”

Regen grimaced, but did not disagree with him; she had been mumbling as much when he and Serie left her in the hands of Fern on their return. Then, he smiled again, “Well, I guess the Afterparty that our apprentices had visions about was our wedding, if you would like to get married so soon?”

Sense’s reaction caused Sein to beat a hasty retreat, having no desire to see the two of them in passion. He couldn’t help but smile, though. Regen and Sense were getting married, Fern and Stark were deep in their courtship, and Frieren was figuring out that she was in love. All that remained was for him to find an older woman to settle with in the future, and everything would be perfect. Maybe at the Ball, he could get Falsch to loosen up a bit and play matchmaker with him. Things were looking up indeed.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

Letter from Himmel the Hero to the writers of “The Heroes’ Party: A Story of Unlikely Heroes” dated 15^th of the 2^nd month, 50 ADK

Sir/Madam,

I would like to correct your work on the attempted biographical work you published about my party and I. In particular, you completely mischaracterised the relationships within the party, among other things.

Heiter and I met at the orphanage, not before. Though we did grow into a brotherly bond, it took years. More importantly, he NEVER diminished my aspirations to become a hero, merely suggesting that I was thinking too large and that becoming the hero of the region would be plenty enough adventure.

Heiter and Eisen got along very well, with Heiter teaching Eisen skills like reading and writing, and Eisen reciprocating with skills he had picked up, mainly how to survive in the wilderness. Still, they never came to arguments with the intent of proving a point. The only disagreement they had was on the existence of the Goddess and the use of praying for those who had come before. And even then, neither of them attempted to persuade the other about their viewpoint. We all simply stated our views and moved on with our lives, without needing to prove anything or convince anyone.

In a similar vein, neither Heiter nor Eisen had any complaints about Frieren. They had been a little confused about how I ended up finding her, but my story about how she rescued me when I was a child was enough to satisfy them. And likewise, Frieren never had a malicious thing to say about anyone.

As for Frieren and myself, I must lend your book some credit: it is a delightful fantasy to read. The idea that, due to the cultural norms and laws of the time, Frieren and I shared a night of passion, and I left her with a child that I could see, just not publicly.

I am not refuting that I loved her. Quite the opposite, it is because I love her that I knew I could not ask her to stay with me. My life, compared to hers, was a blink, something that I am sure she will forget in the decades to come. But, I hope that the Mirrored Lotus Ring I gave her when we travelled through Raad will be a constant companion for her, allowing my eternal love for her to live on long after she forgets who I was. Furthermore, as you might surmise, she and I never shared hidden moments, nor did we sneak off in the middle of the night.

Respectfully,

Himmel the Hero

Chapter Text

There was an excited buzz among the group on the morning of the Ball. Even Übel had smiled in a non-psychopathic manner. Sense could only smile as she and Fern prepared for the Ball while Frieren sat on the bed, her mind already thinking about a redesign of their quarters back in Äußerst to accommodate children. “I guess it shouldn’t be that much of a surprise,” Fern remarked as they began putting their dresses on, such involved affairs, “But you seem happier.”

Sense smiled, “I think that every girl dreams of meeting their other half and marrying them; I’m just fortunate that we’ve been close to each other for almost thirty years by now.”

Fern glanced at her. Sense’s face truly was that of one in bliss. “And having motherhood around the corner doesn’t frighten you?” she asked.

Sense shook her head as she tied the laces of her dress together, “I’ve got my mother and father around, and Regen will be beside me for the whole thing. And that’s before you consider people like Falsch, Lernen and Mistress Serie."

Frieren raised an eyebrow, “I admit to being surprised that Serie would be on that list,” she remarked.

Before Sense could respond, Serie walked into the room from the water closet, “Why is that, Frieren? I raised Flamme from the age of five to womanhood, all on my own, might I add.”

Frieren turned with a raised eyebrow to Serie, “That was also a thousand years ago,” she replied. “Though I understand you gave Regen some advice on the matter when he told you about our history.”

Both Sense and Serie blinked slowly, and Frieren realised her slip of the tongue. Sense was confused, but Serie grew red, “Frieren,” she drawled, “You mean to tell me that you were often banished from your home for a night in the middle of winter?” She asked, trying her best to rein in her anger and only succeeding somewhat.

Frieren flushed, and Sense’s eyes widened, “Only until I was four hundred,” she whispered.

Serie wasn’t stupid. She knew that Frieren really meant that it stopped when Demons slaughtered her village. She took several deep breaths to try to rein in her anger. She slowly walked over to where Frieren was sitting on the bed, Frieren screwing her eyes shut and Fern looking on in concern, idly preparing to summon her staff, before sitting beside her and wrapping her arms around the younger elf. “I wish you had told me sooner,” she murmured.

They stayed like that for a while; Frieren, unused to feeling such warmth from a fellow elf, leaned hesitantly into the embrace. Eventually, Serie pulled back, “Did he ever know?” she asked.

There was little confusion about who “he” was. Frieren shook her head, though, “I never told Himmel about my past,” she whispered. “Flamme prised it out of me while Fern and Stark coaxed it out, and Regen found out because Fern wrote to him for advice.”

Serie frowned, “When he came to me seeking advice about child-rearing, I will admit that I was hopeful that he and Sense were starting on that. I suspect now that he was using that as a cover to find out if that treatment was normal in Elven society.”

Sense’s sudden intake of air was enough to remind the older elf that her apprentice was still in the room, “When you, Mistress Frieren, say 'our history' and you, Mistress Serie, suggest that she was left outside in the winter overnight, you mean…”

Fern placed a hand on Sense’s shoulder, “My mother and father sheltered Regen after they married. And I found out when I was very little why my father never got along with my uncle,” she whispered.

Sense collapsed, thankfully, into a chair as it sank in. “Why didn’t he tell me?” she breathed.

Serie grimaced, “Dignity, most likely. He probably didn’t want to seem like a broken object to be pitied,” she replied.

Frieren hummed, it was similar to her own reason, but Fern shook her head, “Actually, Cousin Regen didn’t tell anyone because he didn’t want to burden anyone.” she revealed, drawing raised eyebrows, “He thought that talking about it to someone who didn’t already know would poison their mind and trouble them more than it was worth. He did mention that he was somewhat surprised by your reaction, Mistress Serie.”

Serie looked pleased with herself before stepping behind Sense and beginning to brush her hair, Fern doing the same to Frieren. Eventually, after Serie was satisfied with her work, the quartet departed the room and made their way to the lobby to meet the men. Falsch was the first to spot them and nudged Regen. Regen beamed once he saw Sense approaching. She had chosen a dark blue dress for herself, similar to what she usually wore, but without her usual cape. And, surprisingly to the others, she was wearing her hair back, allowing her face to be unobstructed. “You look beautiful, as always, Sense,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to her knuckles.

She flushed a bright red. He could still send her heart fluttering quite easily. From his place off to the side, Sein glanced at Serie, “Are they always like this?” he whispered, watching Stark fumble about greeting Fern, who, in turn, just rolled her eyes at his predicament.

Serie grinned, “They may have only been officially courting the last two years, but they’ve been acting like this for the last seventeen, so far as I have seen. Although her parents would tell you they’ve been like this for the last twenty-eight years.” She replied as they watched Übel and Land engage in their subtle, flirtatious banter.

Sein quickly did the maths and rolled his eyes. There was young love, and then there were these two. “If you had told me that they had been joined at the hip since they were suckling babes, I would have believed you,” he murmured.

Serie huffed, “As would I,” she replied before leading everyone out of the lobby. The city was in a jovial mood tonight, and, though their party was on edge, watching for assassins, even they were not immune to the infectious mood of the Imperial City. When they reached the Imperial Palace, everyone, even Serie, was smiling from ear to ear. She then inclined her head at the man standing to greet them, “Lord Eiseburg, I will admit that I wasn’t expecting you to greet us personally,” she remarked.

Lord Eiseburg bowed to Serie, Lineal by his side, curtseyed, “Lineal and I thought it best to join you at the earliest moment convenient,” he replied. “One can never be too safe, especially when the night is young.”

To anyone who was eavesdropping, the comment sounded innocent. To Serie, on the other hand, that told her that only a handful of the Enemy had been tagged already, and the majority were in the wind. As they walked through the halls to the Grand Ballroom, Lord Eiseburg continued speaking, though each point he made contained coded messages for her: “Many of the Lords and Ladies have already begun dancing, though they will suspend their revelry for the feast. I understand that Lord Seaworth expressed an interest.” The Governor-General is confirmed to be in the room. “The boar was freshly hunted this morning; many of the serving staff had to be warded away.” The barkeeper and his poster girl were confirmed to be there. “Others may yet arrive. So do not be surprised if you do not see someone until the end.” There was a quiet search underway to find the others.

When they reached the entrance to the Ballroom, they paused for a moment. They exchanged a meaningful glance, understanding that once they entered the room, the game was on. Serie spoke, “By morning, the Empire will remember Flamme,” she remarked before turning for the door.

As they entered, they noticed the party was in full swing. Fern and Stark made their way to the dance floor, while Übel and Land spread out from the others. Meanwhile, Regen, Sense, Serie, Frieren, and Sein mingled with the lords and ladies, while Falsch kept an eye out from the shadows. The elderly Lord Seaworth made for pleasant company, “It truly is an honour to have such high members from the CMA here with us tonight,” he said, “Even if my peers would disagree, however privately.”

Regen smiled. Lord Seaworth was a long-standing ally of the Association. Mages were told when they went into the Empire to seek out his Onion Banners; they’d find aid there. “The Ball gives us all an opportunity to relax from more stressful endeavours,” he replied with a flute of sparkling cider in his hand, “Even if, once the Ball concludes, Lady Sense and I shall get right back to planning for our wedding.”

Lord Seaworth chuckled, “Ah! Something greater to celebrate! May your years be long and your children healthy!” he said, raising his own flute, which was filled with wine.

Sense smiled at the old man’s gesture. She just wanted this first one to be grown a bit before she broached the subject with Regen again. Thankfully, Lord Seaworth left them at their table soon after, as Sein sat down beside them, “See the pair speaking with Fern and Stark?” he murmured.

Regen glanced at them, casual enough that no one noticed, “Aye. As I recall, the lad is the one we believe to be the Blacksmith and the lass is the face of a local bar.”

Sein grimaced, “He’s also my childhood friend, the one I’ve been looking for.”

Regen darted his eyes over to Sein. The Priest looked pale and was twitching slightly. Some of that could have been down to withdrawal, as he hadn’t had a smoke for a few hours by now, but Regen suspected that some of it was down to this. “Will you be able to proceed, or do you need to step out?” he whispered.

Sein frowned, “I’ll be able to do my duty,” he replied.

To his surprise, Regen shook his head, “Not what I was asking,” he said, “Can you go on, or do you need to step out so you don’t have to face him or see what happens to your friend?”

Sein sighed, “I’ll be fine,” he grimly replied. “Besides, I had suspected that he had been dead for the last ten years; it won’t make a difference.”

Sense looked at Regen, who was frowning, “Sein. With all your power, try to engage a different target, if possible.” She ordered.

Sein made to protest, but Regen stood suddenly. “Showtime,” he simply said.

Sense looked and saw seven targets moving. Three were heading straight at them, and the other four were heading for Serie. “We’re missing the Priest, the Nun, and the Dwarf,” she muttered.

Regen nodded, “I’ve got the Sword, you take the Smith and Sein? Take the girl.”

There was no time for confirmation as darts quickly sped their way towards the trio, and spells started flying. The nobility screamed and screeched, but Regen tuned them out, focusing on the battle. He summoned his staff and faced his opponent in battle. Their weapons clashed in ringing song and rapid strikes. If the battle had been anywhere else, there would have been no contest, but with Regen being mindful of all the nobles who were too terrified to move, it limited everyone’s options. “GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE!” he shouted.

That got people moving. As Regen battled, he quickly raised a shield to rebound an attack from across the room; the surprised yelp made him smirk. It was as if people had forgotten that most mages could sense the things happening around them. To his surprise, he heard a single sword striking another sword before not hearing that again. But he couldn’t think about that at the moment, not when the swordswoman before him caught them in a bind, allowing for a moment to breathe. “Do you really think that you’ll survive this? Let alone actually succeed?” he questioned.

The woman smirked, “I could ask you the same thing. Or is your paramour only acting like she’s struggling against Iris?”

That unlocked something within Regen, something that he had learned from Lawine. So it came as a bit of a surprise when Regen smirked before bashing her in the face and kicking her away a few feet. “Most mages cannot imagine freezing to death. You shall get a first-hand experience from someone with experience,” he growled.

Regen didn’t even bother pointing his staff; his mana would obey him. However, he was so caught up in his anger that he didn’t realise that he wasn’t just affecting his opponent, he was affecting all of the Shadow Warriors. More than that, his eyes were glowing, and he was hovering slightly. Soon, it wasn’t just the Shadow Warriors who were getting frozen in place; everyone was. Serie looked over to Regen as she sensed the flow of Mana coming from him and felt something in her that she hadn’t felt in thousands of years: Fear. However, thankfully for everyone involved, Sense realised what was happening too, “REGEN!” she called out.

Regen blinked, the power leaving his eyes, and his feet touching the floor once again. And everyone was released. Or at least, everyone who wasn’t a Shadow Warrior. Once that was done, Regen slumped down; only Sense and Sein catching him prevented him from hitting the floor. Rushing over to his side, Serie let out a sigh of relief when Regen was alert, just drained. “Remind me never to teach you Flamme’s landscaping spells,” she muttered.

Regen raised an eyebrow, but Frieren smirked, “You mean the spells that would remove entire hills and turn them into craters?” she asked, receiving a shudder in response. “That might be for the best.”

Despite everything, Regen chuckled. As he sat up, however, he surveyed the room with a concerned glance. Lineal was burrowed into Lord Eiseburg, which, while it wasn’t that unexpected since they had seemed to be enjoying a dance before the chaos broke out, it was somewhat surprising that she was shaking slightly. However, the reason for it was at the Lord’s feet, “How in the name of the Goddess did the Emperor get caught in the crossfire?” he asked.

Lord Eiseburg heard the question and looked over from his position, pulling Lineal closer to him, “He didn’t get caught in the crossfire. He joined the Shadow Warriors in their assault.”

Seeing Lineal twitch told them that the Emperor had likely targeted her. Just then, Captain Fräse and the rest of MSF rushed into the room. “Apologies for our tardiness,” she remarked, motioning for the officers with her to take the Shadow Warriors into custody. “We had a hell of a time containing your comrades’ combat.”

Regen looked and saw Land and Übel with them, looking somewhat sheepish; at least Land did. “How many did you face?” Serie asked.

Übel answered her, “A pair of clerics and an old dwarf. Only the dwarf survived.”

With that, Regen and Serie both relaxed. “Then, it’s over.” Serie breathed.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

Declaration of the Imperial Succession, 14^th day of the 2^nd month, 81 ADK

Citizens of the Empire, a new Emperor sits upon the Throne.

His Grace, the former Lord Eiseburg, Schultz von Eiseburg, assents to the Throne of the Empire after his predecessor joined forces with the Outlaw Group known as the Shadow Warriors in an attempt to wipe out mages and forced our new Emperor to face him in battle to protect his escort for the evening, the Lady Lineal, his chief officer and commander of the City Guard.

Long Live His Grace, Emperor Schultz von Eiseburg, first of his name, Protector of the Realms of Good, Lord Commander of the Imperial Mages, Heir to the Legacy of Flamme. Long may he reign!

Chapter Text

Regen stirred slowly the morning after the Festival. After the Court had finished absorbing what the now late-Emperor had done and the attack by the Shadow Warriors, the festivities had continued, albeit a bit muted. Admittedly, Lord Eiseburg, now the Emperor-Presumptive, had his hands full. Still, if Lineal’s presence throughout the remainder of the night and their departure together was any indication, the Empire would likely soften its stance towards the CMA.

Their party, on the other hand, had quickly retired for the evening. For Regen and Sense, they might have gotten into their nightclothes, but they had failed to get under the covers, and Regen assumed that to be the state most of their companions were in as well. He was about to turn over and return to sleep, but the arm that was around Sense was quickly thrown off, and her presence quickly left the bed. He started to get up when he heard her retch. Heading to her side as she hunched over the toilet and lost her battle with the previous night’s dinner, he began rubbing her back, using his mana to try and help soothe her stomach. When she finally stopped and leaned back against him, he continued his ministrations, but also kissed her cheek. “How long have you been experiencing the Morning Sickness?” he murmured.

Sense groaned and lay her head on his chest, “Only the last week,” she muttered.

Regen hummed and led her to an armchair, where he pulled out his suitcase and rummaged through it for a moment before pulling out a packet of leaves. “You’ll want to drink this as often as you can.” He said, summoning a cup and water before heating it with his mana. “Chamomile and Peppermint tea. It will help with the nausea.”

Sense gave him a look that told him that she was humouring him. “There’s no potion that works better, in my experience,” he replied with a smirk. “All the midwives I supplied all swear by it, so I am inclined to believe them.”

Regen set the tea in front of her, and she began drinking. Regen pressed a kiss to the crown of her head and sat beside her, picking up some of the papers they had been working on since the day before. “Well, since we’re awake, shall we continue planning our wedding?”

When Serie entered their room after the sun had risen, they had largely finished their planning and were relaxing. “You two are up early,” she remarked.

Regen waved her off, “Morning Sickness, if I had known, I would have had the tea ready last night.”

Serie hummed, “Camomile and Peppermint?” she asked, receiving a nod back, “Good recipe, been in use for at least the last seven thousand years, so I suppose it works well enough,” she remarked.

Regen grew a slight smirk, and Sense flushed slightly; only Serie caught them, and just barely. Choosing to ignore that, however, she turned to more important matters. “One of the Shadow Warriors wishes to confess everything. But he will only do so in your presence, Regen.”

Regen raised an eyebrow, surprise plain on his face, “Does anyone suspect anything about it?”

Serie shook her head, “No, not even his former friend.”

Regen’s eyebrow remained high, “The Blacksmith wishes to confess?” he questioned, receiving a nod in reply, “Curious. Are there any other conditions I should know about?”

Serie shook her head, “None that he would say right now, I suspect that he’ll try and barter for his life though.”

Regen grimaced, “Hardly my job to decide that, we’ll have to see what the new Emperor decides,” he remarked before standing and kissing Sense’s cheek, “I’ll be back as quick as I can. Hopefully, before everyone arrives later today.”

With that, he was soon in the dungeons of the Imperial Palace with the future Emperor, Lineal, Serie, Frieren and Sein. In the other room, viewable from theirs through a one-way mirror, sat Kreis, looking resolute but defeated. “What do you think, Sein? You knew him best.” Regen asked.

Sein shook his head, “Did I really?” he muttered. “I’m starting to think that the boy I knew growing up is gone, or is buried deep.”

Regen chose not to respond. He just entered the room, taking a seat opposite Kreis. Eyebrow raised and with an intrigued expression on his face. “Before I tell you everything,” Kreis began, “I want assurances that Iris will live. I don't expect to get anything better than life in prison for her out of you, but at least she'll live.”

Regen hummed and crossed his arms, “You know, generally, when people confess, it is so they get a lighter sentence, not someone else.”

Kreis sighed, “Neither her nor Routine got a chance to have a childhood, let alone a life. And I don't believe you'll value my testimony enough to save two lives, so I had to choose.”

Regen rubbed his chin, “So you did,” he mused, “While I cannot guarantee clemency, I can try to have the Emperor-Presumptive grant it. It will merely depend on what you give me.”

Kreis nodded and leaned forward, “I assume you are aware of the money theft, I have no idea where it was coming from exactly, just that it was from the CMA. The Commander seemed pleased with himself at saying that “the Mages were paying for their own destruction.”” he remarked.

Regen frowned, since he knew exactly where the money had been coming from, “How much is recoverable, or was it all spent?” he asked.

Kreis frowned, “I only knew about a hundred Golden Strahls. I don’t know where they went, but I assume that we were supplied using those funds.”

“Who handled those funds? Give me all of the names.” Regen pressed.

Kreis furrowed his brow, “Just the Commander. He’ll know exactly where all the money went.”

Regen assumed that Löwe just went to the top of Serie’s hit list. Idly, he wondered just how she was going to have him executed. Shaking his head clear of those thoughts, he pressed on, “So, apart from the money, what else can you give me?”

Kreis grimaced, “I joined the Shadow Warriors a few years ago. I thought I was protecting people, but we were soon arranging the passings of the Imperial Family until the recent Emperor came to the throne.”

Regen’s eyebrows shot up, “You mean that the natural passing of the late Emperor Klaus and his sons was actually a cull of the Imperial Family to place Heiz on the throne?” he asked, hoping that he was misunderstanding.

Unfortunately, Kreis only nodded, “Their passings were not natural, but ordered hits made to look natural.”

They then spent over an hour discussing specifics of the various assassinations that they carried out and even the plans for what would have happened had they been successful. Then Regen broached the subject that Kreis dreaded to think about: “Tell me of Routine and Iris’ involvement in these schemes.”

Kreis frowned, “Truthfully, not much. They would scout out locations, but that was pretty much it.”

Regen hummed, making it seem like he was going to accept his words. Then he dismissed Kreis before heading back to the observation room, “I think we should interrogate both the girls to get their take on things. And I’d like for someone else to question Löwe, since it was my money he was stealing.”

Serie hummed, “We should speed things up,” she said before looking at Regen, “I’m sure you want to be by Sense’s side as much as possible, so, with Your Grace’s permission, I would recommend Lineal take Routine while Frieren and I take Löwe and Regen works on Iris.”

The Emperor-Presumptive nodded. “I will consent to this plan,” he stated, before gesturing to the guards to do as was said.

Before they split up, Regen looked at Serie, “Mistress, for the sake of the cleaning staff here, try and keep him in one piece…”

The look that Serie gave him was like a child discovering where the cookie jar was being stored. “No promises.”

Regen looked to Frieren, but she had a similar expression on her face. “Those two are going to drive me to drink…” he muttered after they left the room.

The Emperor-Presumptive hummed, “I intend to have a few picked men tail Lady Frieren’s party after this finishes. They’ll be able to offer aid as needed to your cousin.”

Regen bowed, “I thank you, Your Grace, but I doubt they’ll be needed. It is Frieren of the Heroes’ Party we’re talking about, and my cousin is managing to keep pace with her master. To say nothing of the Warrior Stark and Sein himself.”

The Emperor-Presumptive raised an eyebrow, but Sein spoke, “I agree. If there really was something that was concerning, I’m certain in the girls’ abilities to take care of it. Assuming, of course, that Stark doesn’t take care of it first.”

Regen hummed, but Iris, being led into the other room, quickly drew his attention. “Goddess… she’s just a kid,” he muttered.

Sein looked into the room and paled, “She doesn’t appear much older than the kids…” he murmured.

Regen grunted in agreement, but he walked into the room. When he opened the door, the young girl flinched enough to nearly fall out of the chair she had been sitting in. “Easy, easy,” he murmured, helping her steady herself. “What has you ready to jump out of your skin?”

Iris looked at him like he was playing a fool, “Are you serious?” she asked, “You froze the entire hall and were only snapped out of it by your lover. And you’re wondering what has me scared?”

Regen’s lips twitched, “Sorry about that. Sense always said I had a bit of a temper,” he remarked as he sat down across from her, “Something I’ll have to work on before our child is born in the near future.”

Iris only paled at that, but Regen pressed on, “I understand that you and Routine came to the Shadow Warriors as orphans. How did that come about?”

Iris looked down at the table, “I honestly don’t remember, I must have been three or four at the time,” she replied. Then she said something that shocked Regen to his core: “The first thing I remember was the attack on Boden.”

Regen’s eyes widened, but he did his best to keep his terror off his face. “Boden? How do you mean?”

Iris shut her eyes, “The Commander was convinced that there was a family there that was a threat to humanity, though I think that he really meant that they were threatening to the Shadow Warriors' goals. My job was to ensure that no one escaped.”

Regen blinked, “But you must have been… what, seven or eight?”

Iris let a few tears out, “Closer to seven,” she whispered. “I came across a girl with purple hair and knew she was one of the targets, but couldn’t do it. She didn’t look to be any older than me and looked terrified. So, I claimed to have killed her but didn’t. I hope she’s still alive, somewhere.”

Regen leaned back in his chair, silently absorbing this information. Iris had just confirmed that she had been given tasks that she had objected to morally and had obfuscated the Shadow Warriors of her own accord. Finally, he leaned forward and placed a hand on her shoulder, drawing her attention, “I’m surprised you didn’t recognise her,” he remarked, drawing her eyebrow to quirk upwards, “The girl you protected became the apprentice to Frieren, and a First-Class Mage. She was at the ball.”

Iris’ eyes widened and, much to Regen’s surprise, she began trembling. Finally, she spoke, “How will it happen?” she whispered.

Now Regen was confused, “How will what happen?” he asked.

Now Iris drew her knees to her chest, “My execution,” she replied.

Regen could barely hear her, but he did. He leaned back in thought. The Shadow Warriors had gone into the attempt on Serie’s life with no expectation of survival. Still, three of them did die during the attempt, according to the intelligence: Clematis, Lore and Gazelle had been killed. That left seven Warriors to deal with. Regen doubted that Löwe or Wehrlos would get off the hook; one had been too involved, and the other had fallen from grace with this. “I will speak to the Emperor-Presumptive about your situation,” he said, drawing a wince from her. “I will, however, advocate for clemency. All of the information suggests that you did little in the way of actively promoting the goal of the Shadow Warriors, and, more importantly, you seem to have gone against them in some ways.”

Iris practically threw herself at him, crying thanks and oaths. “Breathe, young one. I have yet to win your freedom, let alone your life,” he murmured before patting her back to soothe her.

After calming her enough to release her grip on him, Regen had the guards take her back to a cell with strict orders to treat her well. Then he returned to face the Emperor, finding Lineal had returned as well. “Ah, Master Regen, Lineal was just telling us how Routine had much a similar story to Iris, though without the theatrics,” he remarked, a faint smile playing on his lips.

Regen sighed, “Your Grace, might I intercede on their behalf? They weren’t given a fair shake at things if they truly were practically abducted as toddlers.”

The Emperor-Presumptive rubbed his chin, “I see no benefit from their heads being on spikes, but neither could they remain in Eiseburg, or the Empire for that matter.”

Regen rubbed his eyes, the strain of the last few days momentarily appearing on his face, “Then, might I suggest an exile to the Continental Magic Association? As we are independent of the Empire, and more importantly, the target of the plot, we would be singularly invested in their rehabilitation.”

The Emperor-Presumptive hummed, “Should Mistress Serie be amenable, I will assent to Routine, Iris and Kreis being transferred to CMA custodianship.” He said before gesturing for the group to follow him.

Regen momentarily looked relieved, having gotten more than he had thought possible for these kids. They quickly encountered Serie and Frieren, both of whom had smug looks on their faces. “Desiring to keep my appetite for lunch, I shall not ask.” The Emperor-Presumptive remarked with a raised eyebrow.

Serie fained innocence, “Why, Your Grace, you suggest that we did such unsavoury business. Frieren and I merely informed Löwe that there were simpler ways to commit suicide.”

Frieren had an expression on her face like butter wouldn’t melt in her mouth. Regen just rubbed his eyes, somewhere between exasperated and touched that two of the most powerful mages would feel so incensed on his behalf. As such, he missed the Emperor-Presumptive making the request, but was tuned back in when Serie answered it: “We would be happy to take them off of your hands,” she said, “We’ll keep them out of Imperial Territory and do our utmost to rehabilitate them.”

The Emperor-Presumptive hummed and nodded, “Then, might we revisit a discussion?” he requested, drawing a raised eyebrow from Serie, “As you might know, it is custom to strengthen an alliance in blood and oath.”

Regen leaned over to her, “I didn’t realise His Grace desired an alliance with us,” he whispered.

Serie hummed, but the Emperor-Presumptive continued, “Thus, I ask that to strengthen our alliance, I might be given your consent to take Lineal to wife.”

A sudden thud from behind him drew everyone’s attention, though it was no surprise that it was Lineal, having fallen in surprise. She started to stammer before Regen rolled his eyes, “Goddess, normally it’s the man on bended knee,” he remarked before looking at the Emperor-Presumptive meaningfully, who took that as his cue to assist her to her feet.

Serie grinned before nodding, “I will consent to it, so long as Lineal does.”

Regen could only chuckle as Lineal’s response was to kiss the Emperor-Presumptive, an act that caught him off-guard momentarily, though he was sure he heard someone of the guards mutter, “Finally!” Things might start quieting down soon enough. But first, there was at least one wedding in his future.

Notes from the Äußerst Facility:

Wedding announcement for First-Class Mage Regen and First-Class Mage Sense,

Regen, Master of Potions and Poisons, and Sense, Personal Aide to the Great Mage Serie, do announce their marriage to be declared on the 16^th day of the 2^nd month of the 81^st year since the Defeat of the Demon King. Guests of this Wedding include:

Lady Kelle - Mother of the Bride

Inspector Weizen - Father of the Bride

Lady Messer - Sister of the Bride

Sir Dolch - Husband of Lady Messer

Libelle - Daughter of Lady Messer and Sir Dolch

Arnolf - Son of Lady Messer and Sir Dolch

Ulf - Son of Lady Messer and Sir Dolch

First-Class Mage Fern - Cousin of the Groom

Great Mage Serie - Master of the Bride and Groom

Sir Stark - Promised of Fern

Great Mage Frieren - Master of Fern

Priest Sein - Healer of Frieren’s Party and Officiant of the Wedding

Third-Class Mage Lawine - Apprentice of the Groom

Lady Blume - Mother of Lady Lawine

Sir Lehm - Father of Lady Lawine

Third-Class Mage Kanne - Apprentice of the Bride

Miss Rosen - Mother of Miss Kanne

Mister Stahl - Father of Miss Kanne

First-Class Mage Methode

First-Class Mage Land

First-Class Mage Übel

First-Class Mage Denken

First-Class Mage Lernen

First-Class Mage Falsch

Second-Class Mage Richter

Third-Class Mage Laufen

Emperor-Presumptive Schultz von Eiseburg

Lord Davos Seaworth

May their years be long and their children be healthy!

15.2.81 ADK