Reasons Behind Freya’s Affection for Bell Cranel in Danmachi Explained

Freya’s infatuation with Bell Cranel is one of the most captivating storylines in the Danmachi series. From the moment the Goddess of Love first encountered Bell in Orario, she developed an overwhelming desire to possess him. As her feelings intensified, they spiraled into an obsession that led to a significant and turbulent event within Orario, where she manipulated the memories of those around her to claim Bell for herself.

Throughout the Goddess of Fertility Arc, Freya cast aside her pride, honor, and moral code in her pursuit of Bell, regardless of his ties to the Hestia Familia. This raises an intriguing question: What is it about Bell Cranel that captivates Freya so deeply?

Understanding Freya’s Obsession with Bell Cranel

Freya determined to possess Bell (Image via J.C.Staff) — Freya, determined to make Bell hers (Image via J.C.Staff)

As one of the most enigmatic figures in Danmachi, Freya has enchanted fans with her mystique. Her fixation on Bell Cranel, a key member of the Hestia Familia, has been a topic of great interest. Freya’s desire for Bell stems from her belief that he embodies a pure and untainted soul, free of malice. In her eyes, he represents her Odr—her perfect match. This conviction drives her to pursue him relentlessly, even contemplating leaving the mortal realm to follow his soul to the afterlife if necessary.

Freya’s first encounter with Bell occurred while she was disguised as Syr, when she returned a magic stone he had lost. This moment marked the beginning of a profound connection, leading her to prepare boxed lunches for him at the Hostess of Fertility tavern, located in Orario’s bustling center.

Freya’s emotions as Syr were characterized by a deep concern for Bell’s well-being, particularly during his dungeon adventures. On one occasion, she even lent him a grimoire. After witnessing Bell’s victory over a Silverback, Freya’s feelings bubbled to the surface as she confessed her infatuation, only for Bell to misinterpret her words as teasing.

Freya’s affection for Bell, veiled under her Syr guise, grew increasingly intense over time, culminating in an obsession. During a date at the Goddess Festival, she finally decided to lay bare her emotions for him. She expressed her belief in a slow-burn romance but eventually realized she could no longer suppress her feelings.

Confident in her feelings, Freya tried to win Bell over, yet her efforts were met with disappointment. Attached as he was to Ais, Bell could not reciprocate her affection for Syr (unaware that she was actually Freya). This emotional dismissal led to a figurative severing of their connected hearts.

Freya’s Obsession and Its Consequences in Orario

Freya initially believed that Bell would accept her Syr persona, a role she engaged in as part of her existence in the mortal realm. However, this act transformed into a curse when Bell rejected Syr, signifying not just a personal setback but an outright refusal of Freya’s affection.

The depth of Freya’s obsession meant she could not simply accept Bell’s dismissal. Instead, she resorted to drastic measures to force his affections, ultimately abandoning her principles. To manipulate the situation, Freya altered the memories of those in Orario, falsely reassigning Bell’s name and identity within the Freya Familia, even deceiving his closest friends.

Freya uses her charm on everyone (Image via J.C.Staff)

Remarkably, Hestia remained immune to Freya’s charms—a fact rooted in her status as a Virgin Goddess. Freya even resorted to threats against Hestia and her familia to keep Bell unaware of the truth.

This tumultuous response to rejection plunged Bell into despair, exacerbated by Freya’s inability to comprehend the emotional turmoil her obsession caused him. The drastic steps she took to manipulate Bell were a blatant violation of her moral standards.

Bell Cranel, as seen in Danmachi (Image via J.C.Staff)

Freya, as the Goddess of Love, possesses the innate ability to sway hearts effortlessly, yet her fixation on Bell led her to abandon this natural advantage. Her determination to forge a connection with Bell transformed Orario into her personal battleground, marked by her unyielding desire.

Conclusion

Freya meets Bell in Danmachi (Image via JCStaff)

The latest season of the Danmachi anime (Season 5) showcases the intricate dynamics between Freya and Bell Cranel. Freya’s conviction that Bell is her Odr catalyzed her relentless pursuit, prompting her to break her ethical boundaries and influence everyone around him.

Fueled by her desire, Freya’s character offers a glimpse into the darker aspects of love and obsession. Her willingness to eliminate anyone who obstructs her goals underscores the intensity of her feelings for Bell Cranel. The multifaceted portrayal of Freya highlights the complexity and intrigue crafted by author Fujino Omori.

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