Baldur, the Norse god of light, is known for his invincibility. Due to a curse placed upon him by his own mother, Freya, Baldur is unable to feel any pain or be harmed by any physical attack. This curse was meant to protect him from harm, but it also stripped him of the ability to experience the full range of human emotions, including pain.
However, there is a turning point in Baldur’s story when Atreus, the son of Kratos and a key character in the game God of War, obtains a mistletoe arrow. Mistletoe is the one substance that was not included in the invincibility spell cast on Baldur, making it the only thing that can harm him.
When Atreus shoots Baldur with the mistletoe arrow, it pierces through his invincibility spell, allowing him to finally feel pain. This is a profound moment for Baldur, as he has spent countless years unable to experience such a basic human sensation. The pain is overwhelming and shocking to Baldur, and it marks a significant turning point in his character arc.
Following the arrow’s impact, Kratos and Atreus seize the opportunity to beat Baldur down, taking advantage of his vulnerability. They unleash their rage and frustration upon him, delivering blow after blow. This serves as a cathartic release for both Kratos and Atreus, who have endured much suffering and loss throughout their journey.
However, just as Kratos and Atreus are on the verge of killing Baldur, Freya intervenes. As Baldur’s mother, she cannot bear to see her son being harmed, despite the pain and suffering he has caused her and others. Freya pleads with Kratos and Atreus to spare Baldur’s life, arguing that he has suffered enough and that killing him would not bring them the closure they seek.
This moment highlights the complex dynamics between family members and the lengths to which a mother’s love will go to protect her child, regardless of their actions. It also raises questions about the nature of vengeance and whether killing Baldur would truly bring the satisfaction and resolution Kratos and Atreus desire.
While Baldur initially could not feel pain due to the invincibility spell cast upon him, the mistletoe arrow pierces through this spell, allowing him to finally experience the sensation. This event leads to a brutal beatdown by Kratos and Atreus, who are driven by their own pain and anger. However, Freya’s intervention prevents them from killing Baldur, highlighting the complexities of familial love and the consequences of seeking revenge.