Heiter

Heiter (ハイター) was the alcohol-loving priest of the Hero Party. After the Hero Party was dissolved, he returned to the Holy City and eventually became a bishop. In his last remaining years, he adopted the orphan Fern and raised her. When Frieren came to visit him twenty years after Himmel's death, he asked Frieren to adopt Fern and train her as her apprentice.

Personality
In a small village nestled deep within the woods, Heiter was infamous as a drunkard, earning him the nickname "Corrupt Priest." Heiter and Frieren were close friends, and though Frieren tried to reprimand him for his reckless behavior, their bond remained strong. However, as the years passed, Heiter's body began to betray him, and he knew his days were numbered.

Recognizing that his time was running out, Heiter became fixated on securing a future for his beloved adoptive daughter, Fern. Knowing she was too young to be on her own, he approached Frieren with a heartfelt request. He asked Frieren to help him translate an ancient grimoire that he believed might hold the key to eternal life or resurrection. His hope was to gain just a little more time on Earth to ensure Fern's well-being.

Initially skeptical of the grimoire's promises, Frieren hesitantly agreed, understanding Heiter's desperation to safeguard Fern's future. They embarked on a journey, delving into the secrets hidden within the ancient text. Heiter seemed earnest in his pursuit, but he knew all along that the grimoire held no such magical solutions.

As they translated page after page, Heiter skillfully used this time to encourage Fern's training, aware that Frieren could take her as an apprentice once he was gone. This revealed Heiter's true cunning and selflessness, as he was willing to deceive his friend for the greater good of Fern's future.

Eventually, Heiter's health took a sharp decline, and he could no longer keep up the facade. With the truth laid bare, Heiter confessed his deception to Frieren. Though Frieren was initially hurt she understood the depth of Heiter's love for Fern and the lengths he would go to ensure her happiness.

In his final moments, Heiter revealed to Fern the truth of his actions and expressed his wish for her to continue her training under Frieren's guidance. He also apologized for the burden he had placed on Frieren's shoulders but was grateful for his friend's unwavering support.

Heiter passed away peacefully, knowing that he had played a crucial role in securing Fern's future and that she was in the best hands with Frieren. His legacy lived on through the bond of friendship and mentorship between Frieren and Fern, ensuring that Heiter's memory remained cherished in their hearts forever.

Appearance
Heiter is a bespectacled Priest with short green hair that he keeps slicked back. A few pieces of hair frame his face.

Trivia

 * Heiter in German means "cheerful."