Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End took the anime world by storm, as it topped charts with every episode during its run. While it wasn’t a surprise for those who were familiar with its content, the anime’s massive popularity pushed new fans to give the series a chance. The poignantly beautiful story and the endearing characters hooked fans to Frieren’s journey.
A still from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End | Credits: Studio Madhouse
Throughout the series, Frieren experiences realistic growth as she realizes the differences between her own life and those she surrounded herself with. As many adventures as she had, none of them could evoke a change in the way she lived her life. The only character who touched her heart and pushed her to change was Himmel, but by the time it happened, it was already too late.
Frieren and Himmel Shared A Precious Bond
We tuned into Frieren’s journey when the most important adventure of her life concluded. At that time, she had no idea about how much those moments mattered. As an elf, Frieren had a long life to live ahead of her. She didn’t feel any strong emotions while parting ways with her friends. When she remained detached, Himmel was overly attached. He truly cared about her and only wanted the best for her.
Himmel often made gestures of affection to convey his feelings | Credits: Studio Madhouse
As straightforward as he was with his affection, Frieren never realized it. His impact on her was apparent to everyone else, especially the audience. If it wasn’t for Himmel’s enthusiasm and words, she would have never joined them on that adventure. He always pushed her to do her best and she ended up doing it without even realizing it. His energy was contagious, and it was wrapped up in care and love during his interactions with her.
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For the most part of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, Frieren was oblivious to his feelings. She lived a long life and barely felt any attachment toward anyone. By the time she realized Himmel’s importance in her life and the love he showered on her, he was long gone. And, Himmel’s death changed Frieren for the better.
Even in Death, Himmel Gave Frieren a Reason to Always Do Her Best
Himmel during a fight in the anime | Credits: Studio Madhouse
Himmel always looked out for Frieren in whatever way he could. While his love remained unrequited for the entirety of his life, he gave Frieren a reason to always do her best. By the time she realised her feelings for Himmel, it was already too late. He was gone and she could never see him again, or let him have the moment he had been waiting for all along.
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When Himmel and the others asked her to join them on the adventure, she was somewhat hopeless. She had abundant time, but hardly anything that could make it worthwhile. Himmel briefly changed that for her. If it wasn’t for his impact, she might have returned to a similar mindset after his death.
The difference between human life and elf life skewed her perception of many things | Credits: Studio Madhouse
However, what she chose to do was to live her life, go on more adventures, and learn more spells, something that made Himmel happy. He always wanted her happiness and that’s what she chose to pursue in Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Even though she had been around countless people and experienced many adventures, only Himmel was able to influence a change in her, and as heartbreaking as it is, we’re glad he did that.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is available to stream on Crunchyroll.
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