Who is Syr in Danmachi? The actual identity of Bell Cranel's date, explained

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

Fujino Omori's narrative for Danmachi presents Syr as one of the most enigmatic characters in the series. She was first introduced as a bubbly waitress at the Hostess of Fertility (a cozy tavern in Orario) in volume 1 of Fujino Omori's light novel series. As the narrative unfolded, it was revealed how Syr developed feelings for Bell Cranel.

However, it wasn't until the Goddess of Fertility arc that fans truly learned the actual identity of Syr. The ongoing Danmachi season 5, which centers around the Goddess of the Fertility arc, has piqued fans' curiosity, as they want to learn her identity.

Some fans were shocked to discover that Syr belonged to the Freya Familia. Others speculated the girl may have a deep connection with the Goddess Freya. So, who is Syr in Danmachi? As per volume 16 of Fujino Omori's light novel series, Syr's actual identity is tied to Freya and Horn.

Disclaimer: This article contains massive spoilers from Danmachi light novels.

Exploring Syr's actual identity in Danmachi and how she's connected to Freya and Horn

Goddess Freya in the anime (Image via J.C.Staff)

According to volume 16 of the Danmachi light novel series, Syr is the alter ego of the Goddess Freya. She received the identity from Horn, her attendant at the Freya Familia. In exchange, Freya gave Horn a magic called Vana Seith, which allows her to transform into Freya and act as her replacement every time the original Freya assumes the identity of Syr.

So, why did Horn give up her identity as Syr in Danmachi? As per the light novel, Horn (Syr) had a tough childhood. She lost her parents early and became an orphan. Every day was a struggle for her, as she wandered to and afro. However, everything changed when she met Goddess Freya for the first time on a wintry day.

Horn, as seen in season 5 (Image via J.C.Staff)

Horn (Syr) was enamored by the Goddess' grace and beauty. She thought she was dirty and empty, compared to the warm and beautiful self of Freya. As she developed a profound admiration for the Goddess, Horn aspired to be like her. Freya was intrigued by the girl's wish because it was something she never had heard.

She accepted but only under one condition. If anybody were to find out about her actual identity, she wouldn't be able to use her new persona anymore. Horn (Syr) accepted the terms because she wanted to get rid of her weak self and embrace the Goddess' alluring enigma.

The Goddess Freya blessed the girl with the name Horn and gave her a spell called Vana Seith, a transformation magic that allowed her to become Freya. When transformed, Freya and Horn (Syr) could share each other's consciousness and even hear each other's thoughts.

Syr, as seen in the anime (Image via J.C.Staff)

As Freya, Horn could also demonstrate the Goddess' spells, except the Arcanum. In other words, she could transform into Syr Flova, her previous self. In exchange for the blessings, Freya received the Syr persona from the girl. That's how Freya created the Syr Flova persona and lived among the humans.

At first, she used her Syr identity only as a disguise to roleplay as a human, like other Gods and Goddesses. Yet over time, her feelings became genuine. Syr almost appeared as Freya without her makeup. To some extent, Syr symbolized Freya's vulnerable side in the series.

Does Bell Cranel know about Syr's actual identity in Danmachi?

There's no doubt that Bell and Syr had a unique chemistry between them in Danmachi. Bell Cranel always thought Syr was a waitress at the Hostess of Fertility tavern.

However, when he does eventually learn about Syr's identity as Freya in the light novel, he doesn't show any hostility or angst toward the Goddess. Rather, she resolved to try and help her, recognizing that he was the source of her suffering.

Conclusion

Among the many characters Fujino Omori has penned in his light novel series, Syr remains a complex character for obvious reasons.

Although she served as a disguise for Freya, she eventually became her alter ego, a self she kept hidden from others. Thus with time, she developed genuine affection for Bell Cranel and invited him on a date at the Goddess Festival.