Rune Soldier (魔法戦士リウイ) is a Japanese light novel series by Ryo Mizuno, which features the apprentice wizard Louie as the hero. The series takes place on the continent of Alecrast on the world called Forcelia, and is related to the Sword World RPG. It is a sibling series to Record of Lodoss War (also by Mizuno), taking place on a continent north of Lodoss Island.
An anime television series adaptation animated by J.C.Staff aired on Wowow from April to September 2001. There are also two manga adaptations.
Plot
Set in the kingdom of Orphan, a land of swords and magic ruled by the Hero King, the story follows Louie, a physically strong but unconventional mage who recently graduated from the mage's guild. Despite his magical training, Louie is prone to drinking, chasing women, and getting into fights, instead of behaving like a typical wizard, which leaves him without a purpose in life.
His circumstances change when three adventurers, a priestess named Melissa, a fighter named Genie, and a thief named Mirelle, reluctantly accept him into their party after a divine revelation leads Melissa to believe Louie is her destined hero. Although skeptical of his abilities and behavior, the group sets out together on various quests, exploring ruins, battling monsters, and taking on jobs as adventurers.