In Frieren as a 1000 years old Demon

As the progenitor of human "magic."

The hero who spread and popularized the wisdom of "magic" through the unified empire.

Just how revered was Furame, the first human Grand Mage, among the imperial citizens?

Although Agusheed had learned the answer to this question during their ten years of travels.

When their carriage slowly passed through the capital's gates under the respectful gazes of hundreds of imperial guards.

The scene that unfolded before Agusheed still exceeded his expectations.

Countless fireworks bloomed across the sky the moment Furame appeared before the crowd.

Overwhelming reverence and adoration surged forth with thunderous cheers.

—The enthusiasm of Eisberg's people nearly drowned Furame.

Even Agusheed became a subject of fervent discussion among the capital's citizens.

Simply because he was Furame's companion, because he sat by Furame's side.

That alone was enough.

Flowers and crystals, delicacies and fine wines were raised high by countless hands.

People offered everything, hoping just for a glance of Furame's favor.

And Furame—

She ignored no one, responding to every hopeful gaze.

To every cheering citizen, she returned a smile.

Naturally, Agusheed found this scene difficult to comprehend.

Not that he hadn't witnessed grander spectacles.

Three hundred years ago, when the Demon King summoned and appointed him as one of the Seven Deadly Sages, the occasion had been far more magnificent.

Back then, tens of thousands of demons had filled the earth and sky.

Even five Great Demons had attended, serving before the Demon King.

But...

At that time, Agusheed hadn't felt what Furame was experiencing now.

No warmth, no cheers.

Certainly no genuine respect.

The demon masses had knelt before him solely because of his power.

The five Great Demons had smiled at him only due to his immense magical energy.

Even the Demon King...

Had only wanted to appoint him as one of the Seven Deadly Sages because he was useful enough.

Yet these humans before him—

Did any revere Furame purely for her power?

Perhaps a few, but only a small fraction.

The others all admired her for her deeds and accomplishments.

But...

Why would humans develop such intense emotions toward another being for such seemingly meaningless reasons?

"Humans... though I was once human myself...

Why can't I understand these emotions now, no matter how hard I try..."

Three centuries ago, it was his lingering humanity that made him refuse the Demon King's appointment.

Yet now, three hundred years later, as Agusheed witnessed this spectacle.

He could no longer comprehend his past decision, nor recall his thoughts at that time.

"Did you dislike that scene just now?"

Furame's voice snapped Agusheed from his reverie.

Their carriage had already passed through the main street and was approaching the imperial palace.

"Not dislike. I'm simply troubled by my inability to understand their feelings toward you."

"I see..."

Furame shook her head, looking at the troubled Agusheed with helpless eyes.

"Set aside your troubles for now. Otherwise, my disciples might notice flaws in your 'human disguise magic' later."

"You're speaking nonsense again."

Despite his words, Agusheed adjusted his demeanor appropriately.

Accompanying Furame into the palace, beneath its grand dome.

All he could see were court mages.

Lining both sides of the spacious corridor.

Silently watching as Furame and Agusheed slowly approached.

"Teacher."

"I'm relieved to see you return safely."

"Your Excellency, your long journey has finally ended."

"Was your journey interesting?"

...

"What an honor to see you again in my lifetime."

Greetings rose one after another.

These usually proud and powerful court mages all bowed their heads before Furame.

"What a long ten years... You've all grown into the empire's pillars while I was away."

Furame looked at her disciples with pride.

Then she pulled the inconspicuous Agusheed forward.

Only then did the court mages notice the young man beside their teacher.

And were immediately startled.

"Such tremendous magical energy..."

This came from the relatively mediocre court mages.

But their exclamations were soon interrupted by gasps of astonishment.

"Something's wrong... Wait, fluctuations?!"

The most powerful among them detected anomalies and openly expressed their amazement.

"Impossible... The magic is fluctuating? This monstrous energy is still being suppressed?"

"Undoubtedly a Grand Mage."

"This power could rival even a Great Demon."

Though none had seen through Agusheed's disguise magic.

Furame showed no disappointment.

Instead, she was pleased that some had noticed the fluctuations from his suppressed energy.

"Is this a new disciple you took in during your travels?"

Someone finally voiced the question everyone was curious about.

Furame only smiled mysteriously at their eager looks.

"You'll know in time."

With these words, she led Agusheed deeper into the palace.

"Your disciples are exceptional."

As they walked, Agusheed offered his honest assessment.

"Though my suppression technique falls far short of yours, those who detected my energy fluctuations are undoubtedly geniuses among geniuses."

"While they're still far from reaching the level of Great Demons.

I believe in a few decades, they might stand a chance against even the Seven Deadly Sages."

"Human potential is terrifying—catching up to centuries of demon cultivation in mere decades."

"But as I said, they couldn't see through my magic, just as I predicted."

Agusheed stated calmly.

Absolute confidence in one's magic was every demon's inherent flaw.

Hearing this, Furame smiled mysteriously.

"Agusheed, it's too early for conclusions."

Step—

Agusheed halted, eyeing the library door ahead.

"You mean the magical presence behind that door?"

"The suppression technique is crude—and even unrestrained, the energy seems inferior to those we just met."

Furame also stopped and turned to face him.

"Trust me, Agusheed."

"That child will surpass your expectations."

Thud—

As Furame spoke, the library door swung open violently.

In their view—

A petite white-haired elf in a white dress peeked out from the shadows.

Spotting Furame, she waved cheerfully.

"Furame, I heard you returned today, so I came to play with you."

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