Lots of stuff to like in this episode. I really liked how they incorporated the magic-nullifying crystal in the episode. One of the things that could be taken for granted is how magic is always available to them. For Fern, when they get stuck in the cave with a bunch of those crystals, it is no surprise that she is scared. She is in an area where she can’t use her magic or detect mana.
An interesting contrast to Frieren who is not having those worries but is soundly asleep. Back in S1, after Sein joined the party, the topic of trust was mentioned. It is illustrated here as well. Rather, the position of Frieren & Fern is where they don’t have their magic available. For Frieren she knows Stark’s full capabilities and trusts him. Even if he can’t take down the monster, he can run and carry both Fern and her to safety. That is what being in a party means. This is showcased well with Heiter carrying Eisen out. Trust is of the utmost importance.
It wouldn’t be an episode if there wasn’t some tension between Fern & Stark. Though we know how much both Frieren & Stark mean to Fern. How much she takes care of the bracelet Stark gave her and the hairpin Frieren got her.
I do like how Frieren for the first time in this series, can give advice to Stark by simply saying, If you feel uncomfortable, you need to mention it. As the party meets Wirbel who tries to recruit Stark, it is a reminder that Stark is the only guy among 2 women. Much is a contrast to Frieren being the only female in Himmel’s party. I think Frieren knows that Stark in his heart wouldn’t want to leave their party, but it is good to interact with guys like Wirbel because Stark is a guy after all.
Still, it is easy to forget with Stark being absent during the mage exam arc how grateful Stark is to both Fern & Frieren. While it would be nice to have more guys like Sein or Wirbel to connect to. Stark wants to travel with Frieren & Fern. Not to mention the journey replicating the journey was for Himmel’s party, which would be a nice reflection of how it was for his master, Eisen.
So this episode adapted chapters 61+62.
- The opening scene is anime original, which is good to show that the party is leaving Äußerst where S1 ended. Their final destination is still Ende.
- Like with S1, so many panels are extended. Those being in this episode.:
- Frieren demonstrating the Magic Nullifying Crystal
- Before they get attacked by the monster when they get trapped in the cave.
- The reflective flashback with Himmel’s party is compared to the present with Fern & Stark.