Frieren Anime Episode 12: Unveiling Himmel's Enigma with the Enchantress' Arrival at Sword Village

The 12th episode of the anime Frieren, titled "The Real Hero," aired on November 24, 2023, at 11 pm JST. The episode showcased Himmel's heroic spirit as the Elfen Mage arrived at the Village of Sword with her companions, highlighting how he carved his name as a legend in history despite being considered a "Fake Hero."

In addition, the episode featured the Mages celebrating Stark's 18th birthday and introduced fans to Stark's family, including his elder brother, Stoltz. Overall, Madhouse did an excellent job bringing key moments from the manga to life in Frieren anime episode 12.

Frieren anime episode 12 highlights

The Elfen Mage and her party continue their journey and arrive at the Village of Sword

The 12th episode of the anime Frieren, entitled The Real Hero, kicks off with a flashback showcasing the Elfen Mage and her previous group. Frieren inquires about Himmel's sword, only to find out from Heiter that it's actually a replica. He got the phony sword from a traveling merchant.

The episode then uncovers that Heiter had influenced Himmel to emerge as a hero. Returning to the present, Frieren and her new party carry on with their journey and reach the Village of Sword in The Schwer Mountains of the Northern Lands.

A still from the episode (Image via Madhouse)

Upon Frieren's arrival, the village chief warmly greets her, revealing her as the 49th chief of the Sword village in episode 12 of the Frieren anime. As Stark surveys the area, he shares with Fern the lore of the village and its role in protecting the Hero's Sword. Legend has it that the Goddess gifted the Hero's sword to humanity, which was then embedded in the Holy Ground near the village. Only Himmel was able to remove it, making him the only hero in history to do so. The village chief then emphasizes Frieren's duty in light of this legend.

Frieren, as depicted in the anime (Image via Madhouse)

It is revealed that Frieren made a promise to come back to the village every fifty years to eliminate the demons in the vicinity. True to her word, Frieren and her group successfully vanquish the demons around the village in episode 12 of the Frieren anime.

After dealing with the small demons, Frieren faces off against the Lord of the Mountains, a colossal demon that has been protecting a cave for 80 years, and decisively vanquishes it. With the way now open, Stark peers into the cave and spots the Hero's blade lodged in the ground.

Himmel, as seen in the episode (Image via Madhouse)

He becomes confused when he realizes that the blade actually belonged to Himmel, not the hero. Frieren explains that the hero was unable to draw the sword, as seen in a flashback in Frieren anime episode 12, where Himmel is shown failing to take out the sword. The previous chief confirmed that Himmel was not the chosen one.

But Himmel refused to be discouraged. He didn't see anything wrong with being a fake hero, as he was determined to still defeat the Demon King and bring prosperity to the world. Surprisingly, Himmel kept his promise and emerged as a "Real Hero" despite wielding the fake Hero blade.

The image above is a still from the episode (Image via Madhouse)

The Elfen mage proudly states that Himmel did not need the special blade to prove himself as a hero; his final actions were sufficient to etch his name in history as a legend. Episode 12 of the Frieren anime then shows the Elfen Mage and her party leaving the Village of Sword and continuing their journey.

Frieren and Fern celebrates Stark's birthday

In the latter half of episode 12 of the Frieren anime, the group arrives at the Appetit Region in the Northern Lands. Frieren informs Fern that it is Stark's birthday, which irritates Fern as she feels Frieren should have mentioned it earlier. Determined to give Stark a special gift, Fern becomes even more frustrated upon discovering Frieren's planned gift for Stark. Realizing Stark is not around, Fern sets off to find him and eventually locates him gazing at the clouds outside of town.

Stark and his brother, as depicted in the episode (Image via Madhouse)

Following a brief conversation, she learns that Stark had never received any presents in his lifetime, not even from his own family. A flashback in Frieren anime episode 12 unveils his early years. His family always favored his older brother, Stoltz, due to his physical prowess.

However, Stoltz was the only one who truly cared for Stark. Back at the inn, Frieren prepares a special meal for him: an extra-large hamburger steak. Stark fondly remembers his master, Eisen, who never gave him a gift but always made that same meal on his birthdays.

Frieren, as seen in the episode (Image via Madhouse)

In episode 12 of the Frieren anime, the Elfen mage explains to Stark that in Eisen's homeland, it is a custom to give an extra-large hamburger as a gift of honor. This tradition was passed down to Frieren from an old warrior, making it the perfect gift for Stark. The episode concludes with Stark becoming emotional over the mage's words and enjoying his extra-large hamburger meal as Frieren and Fern celebrate his 18th birthday.

Keep up with more anime news and manga updates as 2023 progresses.

Editor's P/S

In episode 12 of the anime Frieren, titled "The Real Hero," we witness the arrival of the mysterious Elfen Mage and her party at the Village of Sword. This episode delves into the enigma surrounding Himmel, the legendary hero who was once considered a "Fake Hero." Through flashbacks, we learn that Himmel obtained a replica sword from a traveling merchant and was influenced by Heiter to become a hero. Despite not being the chosen one, Himmel refused to be discouraged and set out to defeat the Demon King, ultimately succeeding and earning the title of "Real Hero." This episode beautifully portrays Himmel's unwavering determination and highlights the true essence of heroism, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

The second half of the episode shifts the focus to Stark's birthday celebration. Frieren's genuine care for Stark is evident as she plans a special gift for him. However, Fern's frustration adds a touch of humor to the heartwarming moment. The episode concludes with Stark gazing at the clouds outside of town, hinting at his future adventures and the mysteries that lie ahead. Overall, episode 12 of the Frieren anime is a captivating installment that explores the themes of heroism, friendship, and the enduring bonds between the characters.