Frieren

With everything happening in our country, we all have to seek out small pleasures to keep our emotions in check. One of mine is an anime called Frieren. It is one of the most interesting takes on a D&D group I can remember.

Frieren is an elven mage, based on the very early D&D concept that elves were effectively immortal. Fifty years ago, as the series begins, she and her companions Himmel, Heiter and Eisen defeated the horrific Demon King. The others settled into their professions, while Frieren left to roam about the world collecting grimoires. Fifty years later, she returns to find her old comrades are in their seventies and eighties. They have changed a lot, but Frieren of course is untouched by time.

Himmel, who she remembers being young and dashing, is an old man who dies not long after their reunion. Frieren is overcome by emotion, which she doesn’t seem to expect. This is something I’ve observed in anime, that incredibly powerful characters seem to have no emotions. I wonder if this is a Buddhist cultural influence, that you have to give up attachments to the world. It could also be the author reflecting on someone immortal having a different perspective. However, I have seen it before, especially with very powerful women characters. It’s hard to say.

Though still appearing aloof, Frieren lingers with her remaining friends. Both Heiter and Eisen have apprentices who need advanced training. After Heiter passes away, Frieren sets off with the two of them as the core of a new adventuring group. Ostensibly, they are going to a distant shrine to honor Heiter’s last wishes. In reality, they are passing through the Demon King’s former territory — and they uncover signs that all is not well. I’m only 1/3 through the existing episodes, so I don’t know how it all turns out. And if I did, I wouldn’t spoil it.

Frieren is definitely in the realm of cozy fantasy. The pace is leisurely, with the team often stopping to investigate problems in the local villages. There is more reflective discussion than active combat. Some viewers may find that frustrating. Personally, I’m enjoying it as an antidote to everything else going on.

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