Chapter Text
The process of choosing an apprentice was one of the things Wagner never could understand. How does one know themselves enough to just make their own criteria? A handbook would be a lot handier, a lot easier, and a lot more straightforward than just random guesses thrown in the ton.
So when he had to choose his own, he tried to be systematic and impartial about it. He tried to stick to some rules that he believed were for the best. He failed miserably.
Schulz simply appeared, took a seat for himself, and did not let anything deter him from sticking around. A small boy, a wee lad, simply sitting down and claiming his spot. Wagner didn’t even have to bother with trying to write him down as his official apprentice, for Schulz did that himself one night behind his back.
It all seemed a little bit too good to be true, Wagner thought at first. It was hard not to be wary of such a free-spirited soul. But, damn, he had to admit, the poor sucker grew on him. Somehow, unknowingly.
Perhaps it was not the smith that chose the apprentice, but rather the apprentice that chose the smith.