Each and every character of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is among the best-written in anime. Not only do they feel realistic, but their happiness and sorrow resonate deeply because of their incredible writing.
One of the most beloved and unanimously praised characters is Himmel, who redefines the meaning of being a hero. His gallant actions prove his valor, while his emotional moments signify his love for Frieren.
One small segment from episode 14 further paints Himmel as a character who deserves the best. No amount of tribute is enough for this man who never had his love truly reciprocated.
Himmel’s subtle yet powerful expression of love in Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
Though Frieren understands that Himmel is an essential part of her life, she has not yet realized his romantic feelings for her. The obvious signs that would quickly tell the audience that Himmel was indeed in love are very much lost to Frieren.
When a village child flipped Frieren’s skirt, Himmel was livid. Himmel hadn’t even had the chance to do something like that himself! Later, when Frieren blows a kiss to Himmel, he comically faints after witnessing her devastatingly dangerous attempt at seduction.
But the most important scene of all is from episode 14 when Frieren and Himmel walk around the town in search of a gift. Here, Himmel told her to pick something, offering to buy it for her.
Without even thinking once, Frieren casually selected a ring that surprised Himmel. The ring had a mirrored Lotus pattern that symbolized eternal love. And even though Frieren had previously claimed that Himmel did not know this meaning, the expression on his face told us otherwise.
After that, we see Himmel get down on his knees and put the ring on Frieren’s ring finger with a sad yet content expression.
This scene symbolizes the heartbreaking love of Frieren and Himmel
This one scene is the single most important segment of Himmel and Frieren’s relationship because of its tragic course. Their relationship was doomed from the start, and Himmel knew that very well.
They come from different races, where humans might only live till 80, whereas an elf can survive for centuries. Meeting Himmel can be nothing more than a fleeting moment for Frieren, but she will always remain his most beautiful memory.
The sad expression on his face tells us how he himself understands they can never be together. He was also aware that Frieren did not see him in a romantic way, at least at that point in time. So, putting a ring on her ring finger was the only act of love he was allowed in his lifetime.
What’s your favorite scene from Frieren that holds a special place in your heart?
byu/LornaHex inFrieren
On top of that, the ringing bells while he was putting the ring on her almost alluded to them being married. Though we will never know whether this was the intention to suggest something, it still gives hope to the fans that even the gods wanted their union.
Watch Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End on Crunchyroll.
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