I think it is a bit unfair to criticize Fern for freezing up fighting a monster when she did just fine against Qual
I think its more she's telling Fern to be less judgemental for Stark. He has no experience and when she had none either, Fern also froze. She was experienced by the time she got to Qual.
I think you are right. I had thought at first that Frieren was referencing Fern hesitating against Illusion-Heiter with this comment. However, it stands to reason that Fern had fought monsters on her journey with Frieren before fighting Qual. I think it would be especially cruel to have Qual be the first non-training fight you make your student experience.
I think its more she's telling Fern to be less judgemental for Stark. He has no experience and when she had none either, Fern also froze. She was experienced by the time she got to Qual.
I think you are right. I had thought at first that Frieren was referencing Fern hesitating against Illusion-Heiter with this comment. However, it stands to reason that Fern had fought monsters on her journey with Frieren before fighting Qual. I think it would be especially cruel to have Qual be the first non-training fight you make your student experience.