The prologue for ef - a tale of memories, released on a separate DVD two months before the premiere of the TV series.

While walking through the forest one day, a witch named Alyssa finds a bush glowing with a magical aura. She discovers a baby who, although not a witch, possesses magic that is too strong for that of a mere human. As such, Alyssa decides to raise the child as her own, naming her Viola. Sixteen years later, Viola is all grown up and now towers over her youthful mother, and her mature looks cause many to confuse their ages. Nevertheless, Alyssa adores her child despite Viola's possessive streak and tendency to drive away anyone she fears will take away her mother's love. Viola may not be sure where she came from, though she has all she needs in Alyssa and the plethora of Alyssa's friends who have come together to raise her. Under Alyssa's guidance, Viola will learn to master her magic and make her adoptive mother proud.

"I can help you laugh, but I can't take away the tears you've shed." In Mametsubu-cho, a town somewhere in the ancient Japanese city of Kamakura, Ochibi-san lives a relaxed, easy life. With his friend Nazeni the dog, Jack the naughty kitten, and Pankui the hungry dog, Ochibi-san's year in Mametsubu-cho is filled with encounters and new discoveries! Flower-viewing in spring, swimming in summer, collecting leaves in fall, and eating yummy food in winter.

After her parents are killed by bandits, young Sarasa Feed is sent to an orphanage where she learns about the prestigious world of alchemy. Determined to follow in her late parents' footsteps and become an independent business owner, she enrolls at the Royal Alchemist Academy to train and get certified as an official alchemist. Five years later, Sarasa graduates from the institution and nearly achieves her dream before realizing that she lacks the funds to do so. Left with little choice, she makes do with a low-priced storefront in a town situated far away from the bustling capital. Despite the threat of treacherous terrain and dangerous monsters in the remote countryside, Sarasa begins her exciting new life as an alchemist.