Sousou no Frieren › Season 1

Chapter 27 — Episode 27

First, the episode opens with a brief sparring exchange between Stark and his master, followed by a scene where Fern is visibly upset. It is revealed that Fern and Frieren have argued because Frieren suggested discarding Fern's broken staff — a gift from Heiter that has been with her since childhood — rather than repairing it. Fern vents her frustration to Stark and Lawine, while the group notes that the third and final first-class mage exam is approaching and that three years will pass before the next opportunity. Then, behind the scenes, the exam's senior officials discuss a serious problem: because Frieren's overwhelming presence caused many under-qualified candidates to pass the second test, a standard third test would result in mass casualties. Serie, the most powerful mage overseeing the exams, decides to personally proctor the third test herself, declaring it will be a "peaceful selection." Lernen reveals to the others that Frieren has been suppressing her mana her entire life — a skill she devoted centuries to mastering in order to deceive demons — and that her true power rivals Serie's own. Finally, during the third test, Serie confronts Fern one-on-one and, sensing Fern's exceptional ability to perceive mana fluctuations, offers to take her on as a personal student. Fern firmly refuses, stating she is already Frieren's student — a response Frieren had apparently prepared her for in advance, knowing Serie would fail Frieren herself but pass Fern regardless. Serie acknowledges Frieren's coaching, declares Fern a pass, and moves on to the next candidate.