Methode Gives Frieren a Big Squeeze! "Downer Onee-san" Creator Kei Yamadaka’s Support Illustration for "Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End" Goes Viral

The official X (formerly Twitter) account for "Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End" has shared a special support illustration for the anime’s second season. The artwork, created by Kei Yamadaka—the author of the manga "Downer Onee-san wa Asobitai"—is currently making waves online.

The released illustration primarily features Methode tenderly cradling a chibi-style Frieren in her arms. In the background, Fern can also be seen giving Frieren a firm "smooshy" hug with a pouty expression. To complete the lively composition, a faint line drawing of Serie is visible in the background, making for a fun and bustling piece of art.

"Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End" is a manga series written by Kanehito Yamada and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe, currently serialized in "Weekly Shonen Sunday." Set in a world "after" the defeat of the Demon King, the story follows Frieren, an elf mage who has lived for over a thousand years, as she embarks on a journey to "understand humans." The original manga has won numerous prestigious awards, and the second season of the anime adaptation has been airing since January 2026.

The post has drawn numerous comments, such as "Everything about this is so cute," "Kei Yamadaka’s illustration is peak cuteness—simply the best," "Methode really is the 'big sister' figure for Frieren," and "It’s adorable how Fern is also in the back, giving Frieren a smooshy hug."

（C）山田鐘人・アベツカサ／小学館