Man Commended for Preventing Stabbing in Taiwan, Says It's ”What Himmel Would Have Done"

On June 4, the Taichung City Government of Taiwan commended 17 people for their courageous acts of justice, including Xu Ruixian nicknamed the “Long-Haired Brother,” who fought directly with the suspect during the metro stabbing incident on May 21. When asked by the media what inspired his act of bravery, he replied: “It’s what Himmel [the Hero] would have done.”

In the interview, the 28-year-old long-haired man explained that he doesn’t think of himself as a hero and only acted on his instincts during the random stabbing incident at the Taichung MRT (Taichung Mass Rapid Transit). He admitted that he was afraid but still managed to subdue the 20-year-old male suspect carrying the sharp weapon. It was reported that he fought and struggled with the suspect, giving way for other passengers to pin the suspect down, take the weapon, and save their fellow passengers. Xu Ruixian suffered a large stab wound on his cheek and jaw and is receiving continued medical treatment.

His long hair wasn’t the only thing that stood out at the ceremony; Xu Ruixian proudly donned his Monster Hunter haori and hoped to vindicate the otaku community. He also asked that people don’t stereotype otakus because they are not as bad as everyone thinks.

Xu Ruixian’s trending quote is a reference to Himmel the Hero, a character from the Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End series. In the story, the hero is fondly remembered for his kindness and bravery by people all over the world and by his former party companion, the long-lived elf Frieren. Himmel’s influence has extended beyond the series with fans of the bittersweet series using the “Himmel would have (Himeru Nara)” quote as their guide and encouragement.

Incidentally, on June 5, the official X (formerly Twitter) posted an illustration of Frieren with the quote “That’s what Himmel would do.” The next day, an illustration of Himmel on why he wants people to remember him was also shared. The quote goes, “You just need to change someone’s life even just a little bit. I’m sure that will be enough.”

Source: NowNews, Chinatimes
© Kanehito Yamada, Tsukasa Abe, Shogakukan, Viz Media