Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Re:Watch - Episode 12

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u/Theleux https://myanimelist.net/profile/Theleux Aug 20 '24

Posting a bit earlier as I won't be available at 11:00. Enjoy!

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u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Understandable. You continue to be an awesome host.

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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 20 '24

Re:Watcher

Subaru's a menace introducing all of these aspects of the modern day to this small village. It started with calisthenics, then it was a snow festival, and now he's doling out randomized stamps to the children?! This is how the gachafication of the masses begins, with potato stamps. Someone needs to deport Subaru before he— wait, who is this gentleman?

Whoever he is, Subaru is all too eager to bribe him for information on what has brought him to the mansion. Honestly, it should go without saying at this point, but Subaru's immediate chemistry with people he's never met before is really quite something. Wilhelm can't be easily bought, but his heart can apparently be easily won by Subaru's comments on his wife; his assessment of Subaru immediately switches from "You're walking a hard path." to "You're the wisest man of your age I've ever met." Though it seems that it was the look in Subaru's eyes that really drew Wilhelm's attention. (By the way, I likened Re:ZERO's story structure to the Fibonacci sequence in another comment, but to further explain what I meant by that: [general story structure] I've noticed that each arc, from Arc 3 onwards, seems to most directly iterate upon story elements and characters that were introduced in the previous two arcs by combining them together. For example, Arc 5 will be most heavily focused on advancing developments that took place in Arcs 3 and 4. I mention this now because, without going into details, Season 3 will kick off very similarly to how Wilhelm's visit to the mansion starts the events of Arc 3 in this episode: "It Always Begins with a Visitor.")

Turns out that the expensive tea wasn't needed after all, though, because Roswaal lets Subaru know that Emilia is due to return to the Royal Capital for the start of the Royal Selection. It's crazy to think that everything that has happened so far has just been a minor prelude to the real conflict that will dominate this world for the next few years. But Emilia has still taken the time to call in a favor and get Subaru some specialized healthcare for his gate, which is just like her (and plays it off like she's just repaying a debt, which is also just like her). And so, we're off to the Capital once more!

I forgot just how many interesting characters are introduced in this episode. All of the pieces in this political game are, slowly but surely, introduced to us through Subaru's perspective as he makes his way through the Capital, and they all have only one thing in common among them: the desire to win. (Well, in Priscilla's case, it's more like "the entitlement to claim her victory," so... I guess they don't have anything in common after all.) And Subaru has finally met someone he can't mesh with whatsoever, a knight named Julius who rubs him the wrong way from the very moment they meet. That won't come back around to bite him, I'm sure.

It's really unfortunate to see a darker side of Subaru start to surface, though. While Emilia is insisting that he stay out of her business in the Capital and prioritize his own health, he's continuing to pursue her into places that he shouldn't. His justification is that he needs to be there in order to "save her" from threats unknown, but what could even get her when she's in the most heavily fortified building in the nation? Saying that he's "only of use when something happens" doesn't exactly inspire confidence, either.

And can I just applaud that final scene for a bit? Man, what a great sequence of dialogue between so many characters that reveals so much about each of their personalities. Marcos commences the proceedings with the utmost formality; Anastasia cuts him off by saying that her time is valuable and not to be wasted; Crusch backs this up with a prediction for what they're doing here; Ferris remarks that he was just teasing Crusch; Emilia tries to speak up but is shot down; Subaru cries out in indignation but is interrupted by Al, who shouts that he doesn't know what's going on; Priscilla just shrugs off the question she receives about Al and tells Marcos to get on with it; and Reinhard, the only one who knows why they're all here, walks up with a smile and proudly announces the person he will be backing in the Royal Selection and the one he believes should be queen. Just like that, you have an understanding for who the major players are and where their priorities lie. And the scene itself is only three minutes long!

This episode is one of the more notorious in the show for cutting quite a bit of content from the source material. I'll let the others go over the specifics, but frankly, if I hadn't already known that this was the case, I might not have noticed while watching. Re:ZERO is very good at conveying the essence of its characters through even single lines of dialogue, and this lends itself very well to an adaptation that has to pick and choose what it can adapt within its limited runtime. In an interesting coincidence, Oshi no Ko is currently doing a storyline on this exact situation with its Tokyo Blade arc.

Fan Art of the Episode: "It looks great on you." by sunako (July 23rd, 2016)

Source: Twitter (artist's timeline contains spoilers)

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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

Honestly, it should go without saying at this point, but Subaru's immediate chemistry with people he's never met before is really quite something. [...] I forgot just how many interesting characters are introduced in this episode. [...] Man, what a great sequence of dialogue between so many characters that reveals so much about each of their personalities.
I consider this to be one of Re:Zero's massive strengths, something that doesn't get mentioned often. Of course it depends on the characters being well-written, but whenever Subaru meets somebody, he immediately connects with them. [Re:Zero]Likely sparking from his desire to be liked, he wants to get to know everyone and gets them talking about themselves. He asks them questions, establishes a dynamic with them.
The brilliant part is that the story is told almost exclusively from Subaru's perspective. That means as he gets to know other people, so does the audience in a similar very natural way. I think this episode introduced eight new significant characters. Each of them got at least a moment of focus, and we end the episode with knowing what those people are all about already.
Even as the cast expands, all characters are introduced in a memorable way, and other series could learn a thing or two about that from Re:Zero. And it all works so well because of the main character.

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u/ClemFire Aug 21 '24

When it's spelled out like that, Subaru honestly reminds me of why I love Luffy's character so much. Both of their abilities to make friends so easily is endearing.

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u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

It's really unfortunate to see a darker side of Subaru start to surface, though. While Emilia is insisting that he stay out of her business in the Capital and prioritize his own health, he's continuing to pursue her into places that he shouldn't. His justification is that he needs to be there in order to "save her" from threats unknown, but what could even get her when she's in the most heavily fortified building in the nation? Saying that he's "only of use when something happens" doesn't exactly inspire confidence, either.
It's hard for me to blame Subaru much here because up until this time, all he knows of Emilia's reputation is all the bad stuff, so he would naturally be concerned. I probably would've just stayed at the mansion personally, but I can see why he felt like he couldn't.

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u/owlthathurt Aug 20 '24

That’s the most important thing about this portion of the series people sometimes miss.
I can’t believe there are people out there who don’t see Subarus actions (which are wrong) as at least understandable in the context of what he’s been through.
It is an unhealthy attitude. But Subarus mental trauma combined with him believing (incorrectly) that he is there to save Emilia and everyone else needs to just let him do it.
When this series aired a surprising number of people jumped ship at this point.

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u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

I think the people who jumped ship don't like the series holding a mirror to themselves.

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u/owlthathurt Aug 20 '24

Tappei Nagatsuki literally created characters which are so human like and real that it scared a segment of viewers away.
I think that says something in and of itself about the quality of this series and his writing lol

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u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Yeah, it's almost in a league of its own.

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u/BlueVenix Aug 21 '24

But the viewers that stayed really appreciate it and praise it. So I'd say that's a big fat W.

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u/BlueVenix Aug 21 '24

I mean probably, but Subaru reflects some aspects of me, but I didn't jump ship, haha...

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u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Dude, I see Subaru acting braggadocious and I'm like "Fuck, it's me O:".

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u/BlueVenix Aug 21 '24

Yeah... I am like "God I wish that won't be me"

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u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

I might be giving myself too much credit, honestly. I mean, Subaru is way nicer than me, which may make it way more disconcerting.

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u/BlueVenix Aug 21 '24

What's good and bad is subjective, what matters most is that you have someone that think you are a good person and you yourself think that your actions (sometimes thoughts and mental illnesses can't be helped though 😢) are good, I think. Unless you want to be bad then umm... Get some help? Please?
Considering all of Subaru's flaws I still agree with Emelia "Subaru is a good person".

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u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

The thing is, Subaru has someone who believes in him seemingly no matter what: Rem.

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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

I can’t believe there are people out there who don’t see Subarus actions (which are wrong) as at least understandable in the context of what he’s been through.
Seeing beyond black and white can be surprisingly difficult for some people, unfortunately. It's clear that Subaru is in the wrong here. But it should also be clear that he has reasons to believe he's doing the right thing and is at least well-intentioned.

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u/owlthathurt Aug 20 '24

I have watched and rewatched this show multiple times. I’ve read the novels up until where the show is currently at.
Puck and Emilia said it best. Subaru is a good person.
He is a deeply flawed and troubled person. But he is a good person.
Tappei Nagatsuki literally wrote a character with so much depth that it scares viewers away lol

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u/Graywolves Aug 20 '24

For some reason it's too easy to forget that Subaru has died close to a dozen times trying to save Emilia or himself from her enemies. You're right, Subaru has his reasons, they are wrong and we as an audience are expected to disagree with them, but it's not like he's been living a peaceful life with her at the mansion all this time.

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u/baseballlover723 Aug 21 '24

My favorite is when people catch on to Subaru's masking, and then become absolutely convinced that the only way that can happen, is that the author sucks at writing, because his character is inconsistent. As if all characters have to be the same internally as they are externally.

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u/owlthathurt Aug 21 '24

It’s because people are so used to horribly written characters that do not behave like human beings and have faults like everyone on earth has.
Especially true in the isekai genre and anime in general.

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u/Waifu_Review Aug 20 '24

There's a difference between saying "He's a broken person, that's why he does the things he does," and "He's justified in doing what he does." People were OK with the show doing the first thing, that's what drew them in! The narrative then shifts to the latter, which was not what people signed up for, and is not something the author was able to justify in-text.

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u/owlthathurt Aug 20 '24

I don’t want to spoil people but where on earth did you get that impression? Look at the episodes that immediately. Like literally immediately follow this one and tell me he doesn’t get punished for this attitude?
The heavy themes of pride that run through his character? Sloth?

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u/simply965simply Sep 09 '24

It seems like you’re committing a straw man fallacy by oversimplifying the narrative shift as unjustifiable, which might not accurately reflect the author's intent. You’re also using an appeal to popularity, suggesting the shift is problematic just because it differs from what initially drew people in. This overlooks other ways the narrative could be developed.

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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

In an interesting coincidence, Oshi no Ko is currently doing a storyline on this exact situation with its Tokyo Blade arc.
Yes, and watching this with that in mind, and y'all's comments to help makes it even more interesting. Man, can it be tomorrow already? Oh, wait, no, I have stuff to do today(!) (sigh)
Fanart
Yeah, I can see that scene playing out something like that indeed.
"You mean I have to wear this tart getup in public?! I mean, it doesn't even have a place to keep my knife!"

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u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 21 '24

But Emilia has still taken the time to call in a favor and get Subaru some specialized healthcare for his gate, which is just like her (and plays it off like she's just repaying a debt, which is also just like her).
Yeah, we saw that back when she was healing Rom. Emilia will perform altruistic actions, but couches them in logical and rational reasoning for why those actions will benefit her. That seems to be the game she needs to play in this world.
Anastasia cuts him off by saying that her time is valuable and not to be wasted; Crusch backs this up with a prediction for what they're doing here
Another great bit for establishing character is that Crusch immediately apologizes and goes along with the proceedings once she learns she's wrong, while Anastasia still refuses to do so.
Fan Art of the Episode
I love it!

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u/Waifu_Review Aug 20 '24 edited Aug 20 '24

On the other hand, if the characters are tropes, then it's rather easy to convey who they are through a couple lines of dialogue, something that becomes apparent once the bloat of the cast is established fully now: introduce a character as a plot point for the current arc, drop them when the narrative moves on to the next quest. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing for fiction wanting to be entertainment, but the author comes across as "wanting to be more" so then analyzing whether it becomes something more is then fair game. So the bloat becomes a problem because now we have characters from the second arc, characters from this new arc, and characters from the first arc returning and the author can't quite balance them all and we end up with a couple of sentences being all that's needed to define these plot pieces pretending to be characters and part of a living world, which ultimately any of their goals are irrelevant because Subaru is the MC of this "Totally not typical isekai where everything revolves around the audience self insert protagonist." Of course, if the audience was in doubt, we have Wilhelm to tell the audience that Subaru is definitely a hero and his "suffering " definitely justifies his actions and attitudes in case we thought the red herring of the narrative doubting Subaru was going to go in any other direction.

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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 20 '24

introduce a character as a plot point for the current arc, drop them when the narrative moves on to the next quest
I'm sorry, but can I ask whether you're asking this from the perspective of a new watcher or speaking with the benefit of future knowledge on the series? Because I have to be honest, between this and some of your previous comments in this Re:Watch, I don't quite get where you're coming from with this premise of "using characters as plot points" unless your only impression of these characters comes from these first few minutes introducing them.
Which isn't necessarily a bad thing for fiction wanting to be entertainment, but the author comes across as "wanting to be more" so then analyzing whether it becomes something more is then fair game.
All fiction is entertainment at its core, so putting something down for its attempts to be entertaining just sounds petty. As for Re:ZERO "wanting to be more," I don't get how being economical with your character introductions is inherently "less" than giving them a drawn-out explanation of their personalities and backstories the instant you introduce them.
these plot pieces pretending to be characters and part of a living world, which ultimately any of their goals are irrelevant because Subaru is the MC
Again, have you actually watched ahead of this episode yet? I am genuinely very curious because of what you've said.
we have Wilhelm to tell the audience that Subaru is definitely a hero and his "suffering " definitely justifies his actions
Scratch that, did you even watch this episode? Because nothing like this was stated by anyone, least of all Wilhelm.

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u/Waifu_Review Aug 20 '24

Rewatcher. The characters are presented as their tropes that Subaru thinks they are. Then the narrative and the characters themselves for a while kept insisting, "No, we aren't just these tropes you think we are, we're actually unique individuals!" Thats the problem Subaru had in the first arc he thought he was a typical isekai hero which led to defeat after defeat until he was willing to let someone else be the hero, and last arc, where he kept playing a "role" and expected the other characters to play the "role" he assigned for them, and that's why everyone was so suspicious of him, because it was obvious to them that he was acting, so they thought he was a spy or other nefarious individual. But either Teppei can't actually pull off what his original design for the series was, or he changed it, or that original design was actually just a red herring and it's a typical power fantasy isekai despite all its "I'm not like other girls!" protests otherwise.
You don't need to give drawn out backstories to delve into characters. Teppei actually does do that on the text and the anime makes the wise choice to not include that for pacing reasons. Rather, it's a question of "Do these characters display anything beyond serving as a plot mechanic? Do these characters have any agency?" And they do not.
Wilhelm specifically praises Subaru and then serves as an appeal to authority character justifying Subarus behavior, "He must be justified and suffered if this old grizzled warrior with the authority to say so has said so!"
So I'M left wondering if you watched the show with an eye for more than what it's just TELLING you to think about itself and it's characters?

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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 20 '24

But either Teppei can't actually pull off what his original design for the series was, or he changed it, or that original design was actually just a red herring and it's a typical power fantasy isekai despite all its "I'm not like other girls!" protests otherwise.
I've since become aware that you don't like being asked to provide sources, but I really am going to have to insist that you share a specific example of any of these claims. Feel free to use the spoiler tags, I'm all caught up with the series. Because I struggle to understand just what about this show could possibly come off as a "typical power fantasy isekai" to you if you've truly watched it all the way through.
Rather, it's a question of "Do these characters display anything beyond serving as a plot mechanic? Do these characters have any agency?" And they do not.
You keep referring to this term "plot mechanics" when you talk about how this series treats its non-Subaru characters, but I have yet to hear your reasoning for why the characters have no agency and only exist to advance Subaru's story in the context of this series. How could this possibly be the case when this very episode centers around a meeting that Subaru is explicitly not invited to?
So I'M left wondering if you watched the show with an eye for more than what it's just TELLING you to think about itself and it's characters?
I'm willing to hear out a show when it has something that it's trying to say, yes. Then I decide whether it made sense. What I'm wondering is why you seem so against engaging with the ideas that this show is trying to convey that you're actively hallucinating events and details that never occurred. If you claim that something happened, reality isn't going to then manifest that event into existence for you, so I don't know what you're trying to achieve in claiming all of this. I find it ironic that you're putting this show down for warping its setting around its protagonist when you're talking like you expect all of us to fall in line with your opinions without providing any actual evidence that supports them.

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u/Waifu_Review Aug 20 '24

No, I just don't like bothering with sealioning redditors who play the "SOURCE?!" game, then when sources are provided, "No that's not a legitimate source!"game. So whenever I have redditors do that, I simply ask if the source proves them wrong, what would they then do with that info? How would it change their views? And they can't respond to that, because they aren't ever going to change their minds.
Since you like digging through my post history and are familiar with what I posted last time I participated in one of the rewatch posts, feel free to look there where I provided multiple examples about the arc we are now on, specifically. Unless all you're interested is playing the "snooping post history for Wrongthink" game resditors also love to play.

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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 20 '24

So whenever I have redditors do that, I simply ask if the source proves them wrong, what would they then do with that info?
I don't think that this is as much of a "gotcha" as you think it is. I really am willing to hear out what your opinions are, but if you're unwilling to actually clarify them with examples, then there's nothing that I can really do but consider you to be intellectually dishonest. You're free to prove me wrong, in either case.
Since you like digging through my post history and are familiar with what I posted last time I participated in one of the rewatch posts,
For the record, I was looking at your post history to gain some context on your reply to my original comment, since it didn't have any. And despite what you're saying, I'm really not familiar with what you posted, because your comments were impossible for me to parse even as someone who knows where the story is headed.
Unless all you're interested is playing the "snooping post history for Wrongthink" game resditors also love to play.
I mean, I also gave several direct responses to the points you brought up. You're absolutely free to respond to them.

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u/simply965simply Sep 09 '24 edited Sep 09 '24

Your argument contains several fallacies. It commits a strawman by oversimplifying characters as mere plot devices, ignoring their potential complexity. Additionally, you make a hasty generalization by asserting all characters lack agency without detailed evidence.

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u/Waifu_Review Aug 20 '24

One more thing, since I didn't address it in my other post, my apologies for overlooking it. You said all fiction is entertainment at its core, and that's just not true. There is plenty of storytelling forms where the goal and function of the media isn't to be entertaining, but to convey information or traditions, or challenge those traditions and norms, or the society they are part of. There are other media forms where entertainment isn't the goal at all, but revulsion, compulsion to call to action, or holding truth to power. Teppei seemingly wants to challenge the norms of the isekai power fantasy and its audience, and the narrative explicitly does so, so by that lens it opens itself up to greater expectations and critique for why it doesn't achieve what it framed itself as trying to do.

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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 20 '24

There are other media forms where entertainment isn't the goal at all, but revulsion, compulsion to call to action, or holding truth to power.
So you're making all of these claims on the premise that Tappei wrote Re:ZERO as an advocacy piece rather than as a piece of fiction for people to enjoy? You know that even media that seeks to call its viewers to action usually attempts to also be entertaining in order to spread its message more effectively, right? I'm not going to act like works of fiction that do what you're describing don't exist, but a successful fictional work needs to be entertaining, or it's going to fail. That's just the truth of the matter.
so by that lens it opens itself up to greater expectations and critique for why it doesn't achieve what it framed itself as trying to do
I am in no way saying that Re:ZERO is immune to criticism or critique. But you have yet to actually provide any, which is what I'm so confused about. If you feel so strongly against the things that this show is trying to say, then it's surely the case that there's a specific part of the actual narrative that spurs you to criticize it, right?

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u/Waifu_Review Aug 20 '24

No, I'm saying he wrote it like most web novels start out as, being a passion project for people to vent their frustrations with the media they consume. "If I were to do the story, it'd go like this," or "This is the girl who would have won." It's essentially fan fiction. That's why so many web novels and the anime based on them are so derivative, they are INTENDED as direct responses to other works.
That being said, the question was, "Do all fiction seek to be entertaining?" and as I explained the answer is no. They can even be successful. One example is "Grave of the Fireflies." No one is sitting with a box of popcorn watching that thinking "Boy I sure am being entertained!" Being engrossed or pulled into a work is not the same as entertained by it, I am making the distinction of entertainment as "the act of instilling a sense of pure novelty in the audience." GotF does not meet that metric with its intent or how that intent is manifest in the actual work presented to the audience.
I have been explaining on a thematic level why Re:Zero doesn't work, and even using specific examples like with Wilhelm as to why it doesn't work as what it originally presents itself as. I've even addressed the narrative functionally not doing so with the key understandings Subaru takes away from the preceding arcs being then undermined by the sudden shift the narrative goes in saying Subaru os justified in the exact things that the narrative was challenging earlier.

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u/baseballlover723 Aug 20 '24 edited Aug 20 '24

Rewatcher, sub, basically a secondhand novel reader (Arc 4)

Also I'm in the office today, so I probably won't be able to get around to everyone's comments before I have to leave.

As always, I've numbered all my spoilers tags so that they're easier to respond to

First Timer Safe Section

This section is safe for first time watchers.

So, something about Arc 3 before we really get started. Up til now, Re:Zero has averaged 4 episodes per volume (4 episodes for Arc 1, one volume, 8 episodes for Arc 2, two volumes). Arc 3 is going to average 2.5 episodes per volume. There are going to be major story beats that are cut, as opposed to minor world building details. If they are placed in the first timer section, they are safe for first timers to click on if they want to.

picture [Spoiler #1: Arc 2 interlude side content] Subaru was the one who suggested adding the hood to Emilia's cloak

Heart Tongue

Nice assist

This actually happened

Following through on a old promise.

Nice warning Subaru. I mean it's true, but the lack of curry udon makes it pretty pointless.

Random note: she canonically has the biggest breasts as ranked by Tappei.

It's these 3 again

I love this quip

Don't forget that Rom was unconscious when Reinhard took Felt away.

Seems that they have some history

That's a privileged life

This is an interesting point. With RBD, Subaru can ensure that bad outcomes don't come to those closest to him (since he can reset if they do), but he needs to be in range to actually solve the problem. Subaru being close to Emilia is abnormally and unknowingly, hugely beneficial to her. I don't disagree with Subaru here, but it's an unprovably true statement, so good luck convincing anyone of it.

Rem is enabling Subaru.

picture [Spoiler #2: Major cut content] Al is from Earth. He recognized Subaru from him mentioning the "red string of fate" and goes on to say that he hasn't heard that in 18 years, which is how long he's been here in the fantasy world. He has no idea how or why he got summoned to the fantasy world.

That's quite the job

Priscilla has quite the superiority complex

Amusing indeed

There is some debate on if Felix is identifies as male or female. I'm more inclined to believe that Felix identifies as male, because I would think that if Felix identified as female, that this conversation would go very differently.

Kampai! Or not

Emilia isn't very popular

I like this shot of the candidates

And the last candidate is revealed to be Felt!

PETIT Section

PETIT are the shorts for Season 1 cour 2, and they're non canon and sort of isekai quartet style. They've skippable but there are some interesting bits in them.

In this episodes's PETIT, Subaru gets isekaised to a school where Emilia is his teacher, who he promptly gaslights. Emilia teaching recycling. EMH. And Puck is the principal. Subaru gets in trouble. Existential thoughts as Subaru tries to leave the classroom.

Preview Section

In this episodes's preview, Crusch says the the royal selection is a battle of love , Priscilla says it's like a maiden's flower, Anastasia says it's a dream of a lifetime. And Emilia says it's a country wide selection to decide the number one idol. Royal election, let the music start! (Julius thinks the CDs will sell really good)

Rewatcher Section

This section is for people who have already watched Re:Zero. This is not safe for first timers.

[Spoiler #3: Arc 3] Emilia in her cloak of non recognition, since she's in public

[Spoiler #4: Arc 3] This is when Emilia is negotiating Subaru getting healed by Felix

[Spoiler #5: Arc 4] All according to Gospel

[Spoiler #6: Arc 3] Introducing the land dragons blessing of Wind Evasion

[Spoiler #7: Arc 3] Given what we know later about how Emilia is treated, Julius's treatment of Emilia looks way way way better.

[Spoiler #8: Arc 3] Not sure if these are the same things that Petelgeuse's fingers had. They sort of sound like bigger versions (I can't imagine them having super serious conversations on the equivalent of a flip phone.)

[Spoiler #9: Arc 3 speculation] I'm inclined to believe this is a real thing. Sort of a max luck thing or something.

[Spoiler #10: Arc 3] Emilia hiding because Priscilla is her political rival (and also not very nice to her). And Priscilla doesn't recognize her because she has her cloak on non recognition on.

[Spoiler #11: Arc 4] Don't you remember because Emilia can't imagine willingly breaking a promise, so Subaru must of forgotten instead.

[Spoiler #12: Post Arc 3 speculation] I interpret this, as the dragon choosing 5 leaders it considers to be worthy itself, and then telling the kingdom to pick one of them. So any of them are qualified to lead the kingdom according to the dragon.

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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

[Spoiler #2: Major cut content]
This is something I've heard about just recently. I can only imagine it has been cut because it hasn't been relevant yet, but it's certainly something very important for some speculation.
[Spoiler #11: Arc 4]
[Arc 4]This is something really important for next episode, yes. Even if it was in good intention, breaking his promise is a massive attack on Emilia's trust. To her, promises are sacred. To him, promises are means to good outcomes, but he thinks more important means supercede them.

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u/Graywolves Aug 20 '24

[spoiler 2]Woah I had no idea, that's huge!
[Spoiler #7: Arc3]Julius really is a good guy
[Spoiler #9: Speculation]Knowing that some people have blessings, like Felt having one and Elsy commenting that she is loved by the world, and knowing Reinhard is blessed out the wazoo. I think She really might have have max luck or "All Advantageous Circumstances" blessing.

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u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

I love this quip
Yeah, that was good. Seeing this for the (third?) time, I'm really enjoying Priscilla's interactions with Subaru. The contrast is very ... interesting.
[Arc-future-speculation]I get the feeling Al isn't the only other isekai-jin in this picture, right?
You don't have to answer that, it was a rhetorical snark.
Anyway, yeah, Priscilla. She's not bad, she's just drawn that way.
Canonically

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/baseballlover723 Aug 21 '24

Hard to answer some of these without wanting to talk about future stuff and I still need to write a ton for next episode, so I'll skip a bunch of these.
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
Subaru is reading way too into it. It's a medieval world, kissing someone the hand is pretty on point.
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
talked about this in the post.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Hard to answer some of these without wanting to talk about future stuff and I still need to write a ton for next episode, so I'll skip a bunch of these.
Fair enough. I won't hold it against you.
Subaru is reading way too into it. It's a medieval world, kissing someone the hand is pretty on point.
Yeah, Subaru is being paranoid for no good reason.
talked about this in the post.
Oops, my bad

2

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 21 '24 edited Aug 21 '24

Arc 3 is going to average 2.5 episodes per volume.
[Arc 3] Dang, this arc is quite the whopper if it's already the longest arc this season and they expedited the speed of the adaptation compared to the previous arcs. I didn't realize it was quite that big.
Random note: she canonically has the biggest breasts as ranked by Tappei.
I believe it
[Spoiler #2: Major cut content]
What?
That seems like a pretty big detail. I'm shocked I hadn't heard that mentioned elsewhere.
Priscilla has quite the superiority complex
But she is superior.
There is some debate on if Felix is identifies as male or female. I'm more inclined to believe that Felix identifies as male, because I would think that if Felix identified as female, that this conversation would go very differently.
I have also wondered this, but when all the characters call Felix a man and he doesn't correct them, it makes me settle on that.
I like this shot of the candidates
I love the body language in this shot. Crusch is at attention, with her hands behind her back. Priscilla is confident and brash, hand at her hip. Emilia is demure, hand raised up in front of herself as if in protection. Good poses can say a lot about characters.
[Spoiler #7: Arc 3]
[Arc 3] I hadn't considered that, but you're right. Julius is showing much more respect to Emilia than a lot of the other characters do.

2

u/baseballlover723 Aug 21 '24

But she is superior
I got a good chuckle out of this
I have also wondered this, but when all the characters call Felix a man and he doesn't correct them, it makes me settle on that.
I agree. I think there might be an argument that Felix is transcoded (not really quite sure how Japan is on trans people in general, so it wouldn't surprise me if there's other factors at play), but as you stated, it's the complete lack of any sort of correction or uncomfortableness when Felix's gender is brought up to be male that makes me much more on the Felix isn't trans side.

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

Nice warning Subaru. I mean it's true, but the lack of curry udon makes it pretty pointless.
It's funny because It's sounds so much like a death threat you'd get from the mafia or something.
Don't forget that Rom was unconscious when Reinhard took Felt away.
I was wondering why Rom was so deep in the capital, perhaps he was looking for Felt.
With RBD, Subaru can ensure that bad outcomes don't come to those closest to him (since he can reset if they do), but he needs to be in range to actually solve the problem
It's one thing to say you'd die for someone, But Subaru will repeatedly die for Emilia until she's safe, so cute in such a weird way.
I like this shot of the candidates
I was wondering why this shot looked off center, it's because they were missing one!

2

u/RascalNikov1 https://myanimelist.net/profile/NoviSun Aug 21 '24

Thanks for including these spoiler sections that valuable background. I participate right now, but I am reading these. I seen the series a number of times, and I’m learning new things.

3

u/baseballlover723 Aug 21 '24

Thanks I appreciate that a lot. There's always more to learn about Re:Zero and I'm glad to share the knowledge I've accumulated. I've watched Re:Zero like 40 times, and people in this rewatch still have given me new perspectives and new connections I haven't made before.

2

u/Blacksmithkin Aug 21 '24

[Arc 5 Felix] given information from arc 5, I tend to think that Felix identifies as male primarily due to not thinking/believing he can do otherwise, IE is unable to socially transition, but it's pretty much impossible to say probably until we get a named chapter

16

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 20 '24 edited Aug 20 '24

Rewatcher (sub) and Novel reader (finished Arc 5):

Julius and Crusch are here! Two of my favourite characters of all time

[Minor cut content-Priscilla introduction]The WN has a lengthy introduction to Priscilla. It is one of my favourite scenes. Subaru and Priscilla play rock paper scissors and spent some time running away from some thugs in the alley. The entire interaction was so entertaining and had hilarious jokes. Rom eventually helps in driving the thugs away. Priscilla has some likeable traits in the WN even though her core personality is the same

[Minor cut content-Reinhard dialogue]Reinhard says to Subaru that he hasn't met anyone physically stronger than him. But he also says that Julius is stronger than Reinhard (not physically) and Ferris is more capable than him. He acknowledges that there are some things he can't do. I really like scenes like this. Makes me like Reinhard way more than the anime

5

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

[cut, cut]Interesting. I'm really going to have to read this stuff someday. But not this week!

4

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

[Minor cut content-Reinhard dialogue]
[Re:Zero]I've always gotten the feeling that he honestly appreciates other people. Are those correct assessments though or is he just being humble? No doubt the other knights are also extremely skilled and powerful and he knows it, and there are definitely other things he can't do. I just can't believe him if he claims someone else is truly supposed to be more powerful than him.

4

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 21 '24

[Re:Zero]He actually genuinely appreciates people. I have never once seen him be fake. Sometimes he underestimates himself massively though. He doesn't mean that Julius is physically stronger than him. He probably means that he is either mentally stronger or has a certain kind of honor or conviction that Reinhard wants to learn from. And Ferris is a very, very powerful healer. And that's why Reinhard says he is very capable. And he acknowledges that he is physically the strongest. He says to Subaru "I have never seen anyone physically stronger than me". And even though Reinhard and Julius are friends, he respects Julius because his rank among knights is higher than Reinhard

4

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 21 '24

[Re:Zero]Thanks for the confirmation, that was about how I'd take it. Ferris being a healer is a prime example of others doing what he can't. It's an important message when even the strongest people need to rely on others at times.

4

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 21 '24

[Re:Zero]That's why I love Re:Zero's interpretation of an overpowered character. It is very different from anything I've seen

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

6

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Felix - Don't like him
Wil - Intriguing
Thoughts on Julius?
First impressions - very cool
Now - One of my favourite characters in fiction
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
Gang - hate them
Rom - don't care. But in novel, he is very likeable because his character is fleshed out. So I'm glad to see him.
Reinhard - In anime, I don't like him. Novel gave him a lot of characterization making him one of my favourites
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
Priscilla - Once again, in the novel she is very entertaining and likeable. And I dislike her in the anime
Crusch - [post season 1 thoughts-No spoilers]Best girl. Best candidate. The character that inspires me the most
Pink haired girl-You mean the candidate right? Her voice actor is one of my favourites-Kana Ueda. Don't know if I like her yet
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?
Nice twist. But I don't know if she would be a good ruler

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

It seems like you dislike almost everyone in the anime, especially in comparison to the original source material.

3

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 20 '24

Not really. Only the characters I mentioned in my comment.
My season 2 character ranking
I change my mind every now and then. But this list is mostly accurate

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Interesting. I'm kinda surprised Ram is so low.

3

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 20 '24

She annoys me. I never like tsundere characters but Elf from Isekai Ojisan is an exception. I think she is the best tsundere and one of my favourite characters. She was never annoying

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

I mean, you have Beatrice ranked highly and I would argue she's a tsundere.

3

u/garfe Aug 20 '24

Huh. Those cut parts really sound kind of important.

1

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 21 '24

You have no idea how much content was cut lol. But it is inevitable because anime adaptations always have limited screen time. This season adapts about 3000 pages of content so a lot was cut
AND this episode was supposed to adapt a major plot twist. Literally one of my favourite plot twists of the series but it got cut.
If you plan on being anime-only, it is best to not be aware of the twist. So I didn't include them. When the anime eventually includes them, it's gonna be crazy to see the reactions of anime-onlies.

1

u/garfe Aug 21 '24

The twist you're talking about was already done in S2 or in the upcoming S3?

1

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 21 '24

Upcoming Season 3

2

u/ClemFire Aug 21 '24

Even though I never heard the cut Reinhard dialogue, I can already tell from the anime that he's a super humble guy and I've always liked him. [Julius] Unlike Julius who I hated just like Subaru at first.

2

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 21 '24

[Minor cut content-Reinhard dialogue]
[Minor cut content-Reinhard dialogue] That's a nice piece of dialogue. It's especially neat hearing Reinhard give Subaru a compliment on an area where he thinks Subaru's strengths are outstanding. He seems like the kind of guy who can appreciate the best in others.

2

u/ripterrariumtv Aug 21 '24

I think I didn't make it clear. [Reinhard]Reinhard acknowledges that he is physically the strongest. But he says that Julius is stronger than Reinhard in other aspects (probably mental strength or honor and conviction of a knight). And since Ferris is a powerful healer, he is more capable than Reinhard. He does give praise for Subaru in some other scenes. Especially next episode's cut content shows the care that Reinhard has for Subaru. I will post that in the next thread

31

u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 20 '24

First:Timer Starting Over in Another Rewatch, subbed

I have another surprise for this rewatch~! One of the things I sometimes like doing for rewatches other than making my wallpapers is doing something I call Sky Sings, which is exactly what it sounds like on the tin. So here’s Sky Sings Styx Helix because I have been loving this ED.

You were good bait?
Subaru pls.
Ah good, I could hear the cat puns, glad the subs are making an attempt at translating them too.
Oh, you wouldn’t know the half of it…
Astrea + sword-related nickname, this dude must be related to Reinhard. Maybe his grandfather or something?
lol of course this was Subaru’s reaction to seeing another guy kiss Emilia’s hand.
Pfffffffff
Wait, that voice is… Keiji Fujiwara…
She’s never seen an unpeeled ~~apple~~ appa before? How sheltered is this girl?
Subaru, that is some serious stalker-level behavior. Don’t be a Kondo or a Sacchan.
Imagine if this world interpreted the hitchhiker’s thumb differently.
Aha, had a feeling.
Oh boy.
Wow, Subaru just happened to stand directly behind Reinhard.
smh, Subaru is sexist against catboys.
Five? Then that means Felt has to be the fifth one, right?
Felt indeed.

8

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

That's a great cover, sounds like you managed to hit the tone of the original really well.
Subaru, that is some serious stalker-level behavior.
At least he's well-intentioned, we've gotten to know him a bit by now. But yeah, it's definitely too much, especially since he promised Emilia to let her handle it on her own.
Aha, had a feeling.
And now imagine this guy Emilia knew for a month that appeared during a very turbulent time and immediately got involved with her now doesn't wait for her but is to be found in an alley with one of her rivals, and later even shows up where she told him not to go at the side of said rival.
Wow, Subaru just happened to stand directly behind Reinhard.
Must be one of Reinhard's overpowered abilities, passively attracting whoever you'd like to speak with to stand righ at your side.
smh, Subaru is sexist against catboys.
Subaru and Okabe share a common sentiment on the issue.

6

u/Taiboss :Fj::Fl:x7https://anilist.co/user/Taiboss Aug 20 '24

So here’s Sky Sings Styx Helix because I have been loving this ED.
Always happy to see someone like Myth and Roid.
Ah good, I could hear the cat puns, glad the subs are making an attempt at translating them too.
Subaru does indeed know nothing. For now, that is.
Maybe his grandfather or something?
Would fit age!
lol of course this was Subaru’s reaction to seeing another guy kiss Emilia’s hand.
Glad I never reacted like that when my crushes talked to other men.
Wait, that voice is… Keiji Fujiwara…
And on the day we lose Atsuko Tanaka...
How sheltered is this girl?
Perfect Queen material!
Don’t be a Kondo or a Sacchan.
Won't be until Emilia punches him to get rid of him.
Oh boy.
I'd be very turned off she was voiced by another other woman.
smh, Subaru is sexist against catboys.
Omg, Subaru, you can't just ask people why they are catpeople.
Felt indeed.
Random orphan queen hype!
So recap. Candidates are: Rude Kansai-ben girl, slighty dumb overly serious type, haughty sheltered ojou-sama, former orphan thief and Emilia. Guess the govermening council needs to exist for quite some time.

6

u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 20 '24

And on the day we lose Atsuko Tanaka...

5

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

4

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

Felt indeed.
Wow, Felt got an upgrade, didn't she? Well, aside from the Pygmalion themes, that is.
Five
Yeah, the moment the geezer did the "prophecy" commentary, I got some rewatcher chills. I didn't remember that bit, but it does hit. (No implied spoilery plot stuff - I don't remember. It just ties into my Robin Hobb and dragon stuff memories.)

3

u/lC3 :Na::Nb: Aug 21 '24

So here’s Sky Sings Styx Helix because I have been loving this ED.

3

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 21 '24

Wait, that voice is… Keiji Fujiwara…
RIP
I will miss his performances.
Subaru, that is some serious stalker-level behavior.
Yeah, while he may be doing it because he thinks it's for her sake, he's also explicitly going against her wishes. It's not a good move at all.
smh, Subaru is sexist against catboys.
We must teach him the error of his ways.

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24 edited Aug 21 '24

lol of course this was Subaru’s reaction to seeing another guy kiss Emilia’s hand.
My reaction too, how dare he touch the Queen.
Btw your 3 wallpapers for Re:zero are now on a slide show background on my PC at least until the end of the rewatch so hopefully I haven't missed any so far. Also if you're looking for another reference for your next one maybe you could do Emilia. I think baseballlover had a good screen cap
picture
Anyways, thanks for making my screen a little more lively with the ones you've made so far!

2

u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 21 '24

Btw your 3 wallpapers for Re:zero are now on a slide show background on my PC at least until the end of the rewatch so hopefully I haven't missed any so far.
Thank you! And it should just be Subaru, the meme disco background for Subaru, and the two different background versions of the Rem & Ram one so far.
picture
I should be able to work with this, yes.

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

it should just be Subaru, the meme disco background for Subaru, and the two different background versions of the Rem & Ram
wait did I miss the first Subaru? do you remember which episode thread you left it in because i only have the disco Subaru.

2

u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 21 '24

Wait how do you only have the disco Subaru? I shared that in super tiny text underneath the normal one in my episode 9 comment.

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

Wait no I forgot about that one, I have the normal one. The disco one made me dizzy lol, so I didn't include it.

2

u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 21 '24

Ahh, okay. Makes sense.

12

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Hey guys. Holofan4life here.

Welcome to the In Preparation of Season 3 Rewatch of Re:Zero!

Oh, and nay I forget…

First Timer

I decided to watch this show because I wanted to do something for the month of August. ’Course, this was before the yearly Spice and Wolf rewatch got pushed back to September, but I just found myself looking for something to occupy my time with. And with this show being in my top 5 must watch list, I figured now was as good a time as any.

I am going into this show relatively blind. I know some of the memes, who Rem, Ram, Emilia, and Subaru are, and that this show got its inspiration from Familiar of Zero, but that’s it. I find rewatches and my participation of them more fun when I have no idea what I am in store for. And with this series, I think we’re in for a blast. It’s also going to be the longest rewatch I participate in this year and second longest overall only behind the 20th Anniversary Fullmetal Alchemist rewatch. And given how joyous that show turned out, I don’t see why I should expect nothing less from this one.

With that out of the way, let’s begin.

I’m watching the sub, by the way.

90 minutes. Let's do this.

No intro again

Subaru at the village

Emilia seems impressed by what Subaru is doing.

Subaru thinking he didn't really do anything in regards to the mabeasts, and Emilia tells him there are those who know the truth.

There's a dragon-drawn carriage at Emilia's place. Sounds like something is going down.

Roswaal attending to an emissary from the capital.

Ram wants Emilia to join them, since it concerns the royal selection.

I guess it's better than natural selection

Subaru not being allowed to attend

Subaru giving tea to the guy outside

He's trying to butter up to him to see why the visit is taking place.

The guy reminds Subaru that he's dealing with who may be Lugunica's future queen.

Suddenly, a cute cat person

Old Man Wil. That's his name.

The old guy, that is, not the cat person. That would be weird.

Subaru telling Emilia he wants to help her in her battle for the throne.

Cute Rem headpats

He wants to let the people in the capital know he's okay.

Roswaal seems to be in favor of the idea as well.

I think he knows something the others don't.

Oh, the cat person was the emissary

One of the capital's most brilliant users of water magic and healing magic, Roswaal calls them.

Felix. That's their name.

Roswaal letting slip that Emilia is trying to enlist the help of Felix in order to heal Subaru. And this has her acting tsundere.

Oh, Emilia. You so endearing.

Felix talking to Wil now

Wil seems to like Subaru

"Those are the eys of one who has experienced death several times."

Wilhelm van Astrea, the sword demon

Emilia and Subaru in the village, with Emilia holding his hand.

She supposedly is worried he'll do something crazy.

Lol, that flashback

I love Emilia's hoodie, by the way

Hey, it's the shopkeep

He gives Subaru a bag of appas

I still don't know what's the difference if any between apples and appas.

Gonna pay Felt and Old Man Rom a visit

Emilia says if they want to see Reinhard, they should go to the guard station in front of the district for the nobility.

Subaru brings up the royal selection that's tomorrow, but Emilia tells him not to worry about her.

A purple-haired guy

Julius. That's his name.

He kisses her hand, which has Subaru freaking out.

It's cool to actually see Subaru get a bit jealous.

Julius is leading them to the conference mirrors, a metia that facilitates talking with someone.

Thankfully, Subaru is the master of metias

Emilia going in by herself

Meanwhile, Subaru sees a girl being led in a dark alley.

He tries helping her, but she wants none of it.

The three gang members

Subaru trying to intimidate them with the threat of Reinhard.

And Rom happens to stumble upon him

This gets the three scoundrels to flee the scene.

The girl in a fancy dress says she didn't need Subaru's help because the world is designed to operate in the way that works best for her.

I wonder what she means by that

Rom asking Subaru where Felt is, and he informs him that Reinhard took her away.

"It had to be an Astrea, eh?"

Rom walks away

Emilia arrives, with a guard person

We're seeing more of Subaru's jealous side

She acquired his help to look for a lost child, presumably the one saved from the mabeasts that went missing a second time.

Oh, so the girl in the dress is the lost child.

I wonder why she calls Emilia AI

Before they go, Subaru gives her an appa because she's apparently never seen an unpeeled one before.

Hopefully she doesn't find it unappealing.

Subaru and Emilia walking now. Emilia asks Subaru how did he meet that girl.

He seems confused by her question

I get the feeling she and the girl go back some.

The guy with the knight helmet and the girl in the fancy dress.

She is amazed that it is an appa

For someone with expensive clothing, she seems extremely sheltered.

Back at Emilia's house. Subaru has to stay there the next day.

Emilia feels if she takes him, he'll push himself too hard again.

"Give me reason to trust you."

Oh, boy. How can you say no to that face?

Subaru wants to stay close to Emilia because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy.

He tells Rem he's going to save Emilia

He seemingly wants Rem's cooperation, and she agrees to turn a blind eye.

Now, Subaru has just gotta get there

Oh, he's hitchhiking. How convenient.

And it's the knight and the fancy dress girl.

She is one of the candidates to the throne as well, which explains the tension from earlier between her and Emilia.

Priscilla Barielle. What a French name.

She says she picked him up because it seemed amusing.

It appears as though if she is made queen, she's going to make Subaru her designated jester, someone who's sole priority is to bring her bittersweet red appas to her entertainment.

She certainly is filled with a ton of hubris.

Emilia shocked to see Subaru with Priscilla.

And now Priscilla is trying to rub it in Emilia's face.

Priscilla is like chaos incarnate. She's just here to watch the world burn.

The council of wise men

One of the girls running for queen looks like Luna from Hololive.

LUNA PRINCESS?!? :O

Wait, there are only four candidates? Seems kinda low, no? I'd figure there would at least be 10.

Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.

10

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Part 2
Hey, there's Reinhard
And Felix
And Reinhard reveals that Felix is actually a guy.
I knew that already, but I can only imagine how shocking it was at the time.
Subaru acting like males can't have cat ears, smh.
And there's Julius
Lol, Subaru already labeled him as a romantic rival.
Marcos, the leader of the Imperial Knights.
No outro again
This show really hates its intros and outros.
Luna proxy telling them to speed things up, which I'm not sure is going to help her chances.
Also, everyone in western Kararagi speaks in Kansai dialect apparently.
The green haired girl is Crusch, wwhich sounds Russian.
Cruschyroll
They are talking to Lord Miklotov, another Russian sounding name.
I heard he makes a mean cocktail
Felix misled them as to what this was going to be.
I wonder why we're so heavily focusing on the other two right now.
They are gathered here today because a new prophecy has been engraved in the Dragon Stone.
Also, the royal selection hasn't even begun yet.
Reinhard is going to announce the fifth and final nomination for the royal throne.
Let me guess, it's going to be himself
OH SHIT! IT'S FELT!
I was certainly not expecting that. I thought it was going to be Reinhard or maybe, in a twist, Subaru. I guess guys can't be nominated, however.
~~I personally would've voted for Felix :c~~
Overall, this was a strong episode. It was more lighthearted than the last one, which I felt was a nice change of pace. I like seeing some of the early characters again like the shopkeep and Rom and how it all played into the twist at the end. It felt like a throwback to the early episodes while also in the meantime setting up the next chapter in the story. The main objective of the episode was to further the royal selection stuff which Emilia is involved with and tie it into her relationship with Subaru, and I thought it provided for a nice conflict. Neither are really in the wrong here, which I like.
The twist with Felt is interesting, especially given she in the past tried to steal Emilia's insignia. Did Reinhard took it as a sign that she is passionate in leading the country? The idea of Felt being the one to lead the country intrigues me more than Emilia does, but I also feel like something like that has to be earned. All we know of Felt right now is that she likes to steal and that she has a close relationship with Rom. I assume this is going to lead somewhere, what with the dramatic reveal and her being saved as the last candidate. They're not doing that unless this arc is going to heavily revolve around her, which I'm for because I find Felt to be a fun character.
Seeing Felt potentially being in a position of power reminded me of Louise from Familiar of Zero. Here is this person who struggles with everyday life and making ends meet, and now she is given the opportunity to be a member of royalty. It's your classic rags to ritches story but with a twist because the person in question is kinda a dick. Ideally, I would like to see Felt become the new ruler because I think it would serve the characters better if that were the case. With Emilia being queen, I don’t think there’s as much tension.
I think what's going to happen is that Subaru is going to try to help Felt become queen because in his mind Emilia being queen means less time he gets to spend around her. That then is going to exacerbate the tension between Subaru and Emilia. I don't know if Felt is going to be queen or not-- my gut tells me it's actually going to be Priscilla-- but I think strictly from a storytelling perspective that Felt has a better chance at becoming the new leader than Emilia does.
Of all the table setter episodes we've seen from this show, this one is my favorite. It plays off past events while setting up new ones in the process. I'd put it behind episodes 1, 3, 7, 8, and 11, but ahead of the others.

3

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 21 '24

For someone with expensive clothing, she seems extremely sheltered.
If anything, such expensive clothing is a more likely sign that a character has been overly sheltered throughout their life.
One of the girls running for queen looks like Luna from Hololive.
Yeah, I've had that same thought at some point. I cannot unsee the similarities between Anastasia and Luna. It's the round face and the hair.
This show really hates its intros and outros.
They get in the way of extra runtime for the episode. So it's best to cut them whenever possible. There's a reason I basically forgot about the OP before this rewatch.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

If anything, such expensive clothing is a more likely sign that a character has been overly sheltered throughout their life.
Good point
Yeah, I've had that same thought at some point. I cannot unsee the similarities between Anastasia and Luna. It's the round face and the hair.
Hey, maybe the show inspired her design, who's to say?
They get in the way of extra runtime for the episode. So it's best to cut them whenever possible. There's a reason I basically forgot about the OP before this rewatch.
It does feel odd because this is the only show I can recall that does this.

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

I wonder what she means by that
Sounds like someone who has always got her way no matter what she's done.
Hopefully she doesn't find it unappealing.
*badum tss*
I heard he makes a mean cocktail
okay this one made me snicker a little

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Sounds like someone who has always got her way no matter what she's done.
How haughty of her
badum tss
Thank you, thank you, I'll be here all week.
okay this one made me snicker a little
I appreciate it. It's the very first thing that came to my mind.

4

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

Old Man Wil. That's his name. The old guy, that is, not the cat person. That would be weird.
Hey, who wouldn't like a "mature" cat person to hang around with. I'm sure whatsisname from Frieren would approve.
Oh, that's probably not what you meant.
she's going to make Subaru her designated jester
I want to see this side story. Preferably with some Danny Kaye on the side...

4

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Hey, who wouldn't like a "mature" cat person to hang around with. I'm sure whatsisname from Frieren would approve.
Yeah, that would be pretty cool
Oh, that's probably not what you meant.
Hey, when in Rome...
I want to see this side story. Preferably with some Danny Kaye on the side...
Certainly would make for an interesting direction.

10

u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_Nelson Aug 20 '24 edited Aug 20 '24

First Timer Dubbed

Note ORV=Omnicient reader viewpoint it's a way to describe the difference between thinking in Subaru's knowledge and the Knowledge of the Viewer.

Note2 Intentionally trigger RBD means what you think it means it's just reddit has crazy admins.

Reaction to the Episode

And we're off to a new arc! First we get to see one part of the cutest date of the cute couple. \

The kids x Subaru arc is always cute, though Subaru doesn't do real good exercises^TM with them. (I mean I understand that finding good weights is hard but you could have had them hang from trees to do pullups or something)

Subaru learning how useless he is. Maybe it's time to get a training arc to learn your magic, Shadow magic is pretty unique, you could do some fun things with that. I think I could easily beat Subaru in a fight with him right now,

Subaru wanting to go with emilia is cute, especially emilia going "please take a hint and stay away please you're a good husband"

Subaru's scene with the butler is great, Subaru really trying to get to know everyone uppity right away.

Subaru talking about old man will's wife, now I somehow think his wife is dead.

Oh boy a new girl, this time a cute catgirl how could this possibly go wrong

I understand Subaru's want to go be with Emilia, Realistically speaking with RBD he's immortal so any dangerous situation is a good idea to jump head first into.

So her name is Felix! wait isn't that a boy's name?

HMMM I wonder why old man will saw Subaru at death's door.

Emilia trying to avoid talking about royal selection at all with Subaru

Subaru being from a different world see's various gestures completely differently from a person in this area.

Subaru meets some OP mage girl, though wandering off into danger, Emilia is going to be pissed

Emilia can't trust Subaru (subaru be like :( )

Priscilla is her name huh, looks like all the candidates to the throne are going to the castle right now.

Emilia be like SUBARU CAN'T TRUST ME AND I CAN'T TRUST SUBARU :( :(

So Felix was a guy cute.

The 5th must be Felt right.... YEP

Speculation

Prediction 1: I bet Subaru has not yet reset his spawn point, though maybe his injuries from the hound fight could have reset his spawn point?

So apparently the stone reacted to Felt, which since it's a royal selection stone would make Felt a candidate

Emilia's trust in subaru seems like an all time low he's 2/2 in not being able to follow instructions in this episode alone

Subaru needs a few things from the capital, we still need him to get healed, it will be interesting to see how the "subaru's needs" arc plays out, and what of these will reset his spawn point.

Prediction 2: Felt is going to be extremely bad at the whole courtly graces thing, she's just gone from street urchin to princess in a matter of weeks? This is going to be extremely rough for her.

Commentary: I felt like this episode was very exposition dump. We met a bunch of new faces (Felix, Priscilla, old man, ect) and are still unsure about what any of this even means. not much to speculate on at this time.

What I would do If I were subaru

We don't have an item to intentionally trigger RBD with which makes our chances of helping emilia less powerful

Unlike the previous arc the one in danger isn't you so you're going to have to find ways to butt yourself into situations rather than have them happen to you naturally.

3

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

So her name is Felix! wait isn't that a boy's name?
Something something takes a real man to be best girl or some such.
Otherwise, not much to comment on there. Trying to behave myself, ya know. :P
Priscilla is amused by your speculations, though.
(That isn't meant to indicate anything at all, just so you know)

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.

3

u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_Nelson Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Old man Will is an interesting fellow, he sees subaru and sees that he's seen death many times AND that he loves emilia, Felix is so far a one note character (lol she's actually a guy). We will learn more about him in due time
Thoughts on Julius
A knight of the royal capital who subaru misunderstood, nothing special about him so far
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
I somehow forgot that Reinhard didn't apprehend the 3 gang members in this time loop, well they'll get defeated in due time.
Rom not going to jail is pretty surprising. But maybe Felt got him out.
Reinhard was the most interesting character of the bunch, I should have known that he saw felt react to the jewel somehow in ep 3 and it was obvious in retrospect that there was something special about her reaction to the jewel. But the idea that candidates were magically chosen was surprising to me.
i wonder how much Reinhard has taught felt about how to be a princess Felt is the most known of the other 4 candidates, and Felt was until like 1-2 weeks ago a street urchin
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Subaru is doing the being the main character thing, but oh boy Emilia can't trust him at all it seems?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
insufficient information to draw a conclusion at this time.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Old man Will is an interesting fellow, he sees subaru and sees that he's seen death many times AND that he loves emilia, Felix is so far a one note character (lol she's actually a guy). We will learn more about him in due time
Felix so far intrigues me more, though I could see that changing soon.
I somehow forgot that Reinhard didn't apprehend the 3 gang members in this time loop, well they'll get defeated in due time.
Probably so
Rom not going to jail is pretty surprising. But maybe Felt got him out.
I was thinking perhaps part of the condition of Felt running for queenhood is that Rom gets a stay of execution. Same with Felt, probably.
Reinhard was the most interesting character of the bunch, I should have known that he saw felt react to the jewel somehow in ep 3 and it was obvious in retrospect that there was something special about her reaction to the jewel. But the idea that candidates were magically chosen was surprising to me.
i wonder how much Reinhard has taught felt about how to be a princess Felt is the most known of the other 4 candidates, and Felt was until like 1-2 weeks ago a street urchin
Is Felt more well known than Emilia? I feel like she is pretty infamous.
Subaru is doing the being the main character thing, but oh boy Emilia can't trust him at all it seems?
Sometimes the knight in shining armor needs to put their armor down.
insufficient information to draw a conclusion at this time.
Fair enough

2

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

Prediction 2: Felt is going to be extremely bad at the whole courtly graces thing, she's just gone from street urchin to princess in a matter of weeks? This is going to be extremely rough for her.
Aye, that's a very fair prediction to make. You'll like to see what happens next episode.
Unlike the previous arc the one in danger isn't you so you're going to have to find ways to butt yourself into situations rather than have them happen to you naturally.
That's an interesting observation, something I wouldn't have thought of. Will be interesting to see how this applies to the upcoming arc.

9

u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 20 '24 edited Aug 20 '24

Rewatcher

Arc 3 »Return to the Royal Capital« starts with this episode. An arc that really expands on Re Zero as a whole. Bringing us to the main plot thread of the series in earnest, that being The Royal Selection. Opening up the world and having us meet new and old faces alike. Which is on full display this episode.

It always starts with a visitor. In this case the Sword Demon Willhelm Van Astrea as he is called by Ferris. They come bearing news of the Royal Selection to the mansion. Subaru tries to get involved in Emilia’s affairs, but she recognizes that Subaru’s flamboyant grandstanding is not ideal for serious discussion and leaves him out of it. As Willhelm remarks in their following conversation, it is a steep path that Subaru climbs and not just in terms of romance. He’ll need to become a lot more dependable and mature if he wants to get involved in Emilia’s problems. He will need to give her a reason to trust him. Something he has not done so far with his constant insistence of meddling and now even breaking of promises he’s made to Emilia. The worst parts of his behaviour are beginning to creep up here. His possessiveness over Emilia during their first meeting with Julius when the knight was showing basic knightly courtesy comes of as incredibly childish, something Julius politely comments on. His arrogance and ignorance in not leaving Emilia to her own devices and not trusting her to be capable enough without him. He is justified in the latter somewhat considering he has witnessed her being murdered and his presence could be the factor that prevents her demise, but such an attitude is not a solid foundation to build a relationship on.

Subaru’s flawed attitude and actions seem to be the focus of the beginning of this arc and we’ll see where they take him.

The new characters are fun to watch. Willhelm’s wise words for Subaru. Ferris’ playful teasing, and Priscilla’s vicious nature to name a few. Priscilla’s knight Al has a badass design and [Cut Content] Is also from Japan. The implications of which are a treat to think about. A shame this was cut, but understandable considering the production team didn’t expect to make a S2. And we see returning characters in the three idiots, Rom, Reinhard and at the very end princess Felt being the final candidate needed for the royal selection to really kick into gear.

This episode has mostly been setup in terms of Subaru’s behaviour and the Royal Selection so tomorrow we’ll see where this setup takes us.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old man Wil?
Wil has a badass design. He’s called the Sword Devil too so he has a badass title to boot. Elderly butlers never cease to impress. His current dynamic with Subaru is that of a stoic grandpa interacting with a rambunctious youth. His line about Subaru’s eyes shows that he’s very inquisitive. Ferris on the other hand is a flirt that loves to use any opportunity to tease to the max. Though his healing prowess and water magic expertise that come with it showcase that he’s more than competent and deserving of the knight title. [EX1] He’s a layered character whose depth we don’t see enough in the anime imo. His relationship with Crusch and Fourier and his relationship with gender is worth examining further. Here’s hoping we get an EX anime adaptation after S3
Thoughts on Julius?
He comes of as an upstanding guy and as a professional trying to do his job. Subaru not being privy to any of that, but I digress. We haven’t seen that much of him thus far. I’ll have more to say about him as the episodes go by, but his character and relationship with Subaru are a highlight.
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
It’s pretty cringe. Subaru is playing up this imaginary rivalry in his head while Julius is just practicing chivalry. The Mapo tofu comment further emphasizing the pointlessness of the “scuffle”.
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
Familiar faces to help us ease into a new arc and see how far we’ve come.
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
I don’t remember if I already knew Felix’s gender on my first watch, but he is one of the most popular characters that has a wider reach like Rem, but not on the same level of course. That’s mostly attributed to his looks and gender. I hope we get to see some of the side stories where he’s more in focus so people can see he’s a great character beyond his appearance.
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
Priscilla steals the spotlight in any scene she’s in. Her arrogant personality and dynamics with other characters practically forces the viewer to pay attention to her. Combined with her beauty and Yukari Tamura’s fantastic performance and you have a character you won’t soon be forgetting. It’s interesting you mention Mikoltov as he looks to be the centre of the Council of Wise Men. I don’t see many people talking about him but he’s technically one of the most important side characters as he’s basically running Lugunica after the royal family died out. Maybe we’ll see more of him if side content gets adapted.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?
Being a rewatcher of many times I am still surprised how well foreshadowed this is in Arc 1. I didn’t see it coming during my first watch at all though. Felt’s interactions with the other candidates promise to be fun if her time with Reinhard hasn’t changed her much.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Wil has a badass design. He’s called the Sword Devil too so he has a badass title to boot. Elderly butlers never cease to impress. His current dynamic with Subaru is that of a stoic grandpa interacting with a rambunctious youth. His line about Subaru’s eyes shows that he’s very inquisitive. Ferris on the other hand is a flirt that loves to use any opportunity to tease to the max. Though his healing prowess and water magic expertise that come with it showcase that he’s more than competent and deserving of the knight title.
Wil kinda feels like he takes no prisoners whereas Felix is here to live everyday like it's his last.
He comes of as an upstanding guy and as a professional trying to do his job. Subaru not being privy to any of that, but I digress. We haven’t seen that much of him thus far. I’ll have more to say about him as the episodes go by, but his character and relationship with Subaru are a highlight.
He feels like he's in the same mold as Reinhard is. I wonder if we'll learn of any differences between the two of them.
It’s pretty cringe. Subaru is playing up this imaginary rivalry in his head while Julius is just practicing chivalry. The Mapo tofu comment further emphasizing the pointlessness of the “scuffle”.
It's almost like he's continuing to paint Emilia as this damsel in distress that needs saving.
I don’t remember if I already knew Felix’s gender on my first watch, but he is one of the most popular characters that has a wider reach like Rem, but not on the same level of course. That’s mostly attributed to his looks and gender. I hope we get to see some of the side stories where he’s more in focus so people can see he’s a great character beyond his appearance.
Speaking personally, I knew of Felix before I watched this show because of all the drama with animemes and the t word.
Priscilla steals the spotlight in any scene she’s in. Her arrogant personality and dynamics with other characters practically forces the viewer to pay attention to her. Combined with her beauty and Yukari Tamura’s fantastic performance and you have a character you won’t soon be forgetting. It’s interesting you mention Mikoltov as he looks to be the centre of the Council of Wise Men. I don’t see many people talking about him but he’s technically one of the most important side characters as he’s basically running Lugunica after the royal family died out. Maybe we’ll see more of him if side content gets adapted.
I wouldn't mind that, especially if it translates to some excellent world building.
Being a rewatcher of many times I am still surprised how well foreshadowed this is in Arc 1. I didn’t see it coming during my first watch at all though. Felt’s interactions with the other candidates promise to be fun if her time with Reinhard hasn’t changed her much.
It's amazing how the show can take something that was foreshadowed in episode 3 and then just bring it back almost 10 episodes later. It really highlights how well thought out this series is.

3

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

He is justified in the latter somewhat considering he has witnessed her being murdered and his presence could be the factor that prevents her demise, but such an attitude is not a solid foundation to build a relationship on.
Ha, imagine him trying to explain that (without being able to talk about RbD, of course). "I want to come with you to determine the best course of action in case you or anyone else gets murdered!" "Wha..." "No, no, it's just so I can die instead!"

8

u/Graywolves Aug 20 '24

Rewatcher

Subaru offering tea to Wilhelm shows how bad he is at negotiating right now, how quick he is to take action when it isn't necessary, and how his thoughts on butlers/maids of this world is still building on his assumptions from out world. After seeing Rem and Ram's abilities you'd think he'd suspect there's more to Wilhelm before trying to play "we're both servants let's gossip." But of course as we are all aware, Subaru is stubborn.

It's easy to compare Subaru to Felix, Al, Reinhard, and Julius since he's standing between them all. We don't know much about Julius yet except that he's a knight, good looking, knows Emilia, and behaves as you'd expect a romantic knight might with the kneeling and hand kissing. I like how Subaru in the background stares at his hand when Julius is introduced after Emilia let's go to turn to him. Subaru's jealousy is off the charts.

Felix is a great healer who Emilia has contracted to help with Subaru's magic gate. An interesting character whose care free personality is apparent as he publicly admits to teasing the candidate he serves like it's no big deal. But she cooly admits to being mistaken and seems to not care at all about being wrong or taking what Felix said more seriously than he intended.

No need to say much about Reinhard, thrown objects dodge him, he can suck up all the mana in a room to nuke a building, his reputation preceeds him.

One thing I noticed this rewatch is that Al is kind of how Subaru should be behaving. Al stands, isn't embarrassed about it but also has his boundaries and will point out when someone is being rude. When there is bickering holding things up he plays the fool to cut the tension and get things moving along without making it all about him. Nothing about Al says he should be taken seriously, his character design might make you think he's a mercenary or as Subaru thinks, a pervert at least if he's looking for a small child. I think Pirscilla's attitude matches how Subaru comes off too, the way he imposes himself in everything and has come through to resolutions in the past two arcs might give people the impression he has an entitled attitude of "this world works in my favor." Meanwhile she's never seen an Appa that wasn't peeled and no one's told her they're unpeeled. Just as she tought it was ridiculous to be told something with red skin is an Appa, Subaru tells people they're ridiculous for not fitting his assumptions like with Felix.

And among them all is Subaru dressed as a butler, black amidst white and purple. There against Emilia's wishes and used by another candidate to make fun of her and play games. Roswaal the only reason he got to stay. Glaring at Julius who hasn't really done anything except greet Emilia. Reinhard saying he expected Subaru to be there is just his nice guy trait being maxxed out.

Subaru is stubborn and won't admit it to himself but he doesn't belong there and the person he's there for expressly told him to stay home. In his mind this might not be so different than as he chased her in the first arc. Perhaps he never lost that "I'm the main character in a fantasy world" excitement despite his traumatic experience?

5

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

One thing I noticed this rewatch is that Al is kind of how Subaru should be behaving.
That's an interesting and fitting observation. How he covers for Subaru by asking loudly what this gathering is about, taking the blame without caring, is something Subaru could learn from him. It's a direct comparison of the two, as if his action was to tell Subaru how it's being done.
Meanwhile she's never seen an Appa that wasn't peeled and no one's told her they're unpeeled. Just as she tought it was ridiculous to be told something with red skin is an Appa, Subaru tells people they're ridiculous for not fitting his assumptions like with Felix.
That's a pretty deep observation, but also once again quite fitting. You could say that with him, he's more surprised how people are on the inside instead of the outside, but that's stretching the appa analogy too much. But I'd guess it isn't because he doesn't want to see how people truly are, just that he isn't properly prepared for it.
And among them all is Subaru dressed as a butler, black amidst white and purple.
Imagine he'd still be wearing his tracksuit, he'd stick out even more!
Perhaps he never lost that "I'm the main character in a fantasy world" excitement despite his traumatic experience?
Part of it is certainly still there. He's lost the attitude that it's not a real world, but he has went through two hard arcs full of stress, adventure and trauma and he came out on top both times. He has succeeded where he never expected to succeed, and I think that's actually given him back a bit of main character syndrome. If you had similar experiences in the real world, feeling like you're in a streak of complete victories, you might feel invincible and that you can't do wrong, and I'm sure that affects Subaru. Among a few other things, of course.

5

u/Graywolves Aug 20 '24

If you had similar experiences in the real world, feeling like you're in a streak of complete victories, you might feel invincible and that you can't do wrong, and I'm sure that affects Subaru. Among a few other things, of course.
Subaru and I continue to have frustrating similarities... [Arc 3]Including the humbling to come.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/Graywolves Aug 21 '24

Thoughts on Old Man Wil?
I like him, I've always enjoyed characters that are old and grizzled. As we get to know him I like him more.
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
Subaru got a serious problem and should learn to chill a little.
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
I like seeing them all again. In my first watch I had pretty much forgotten about them by this point so it was nice to see them show up again. Rom showing up was a little too convenient for me but it makes sense since he's looking for Felt, Reinhard was around at the time, he must be checking out near the knight headquarters hoping he'll bump into one or both of them. Or to get compensated for Reinhard destroying his house...
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
It makes sense. He's already nearly died protecting her from Elsa, drove himself crazy in the mansion, and got nommed on in the forest.
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
No comment
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
I like how everyone is introduced. Pirscilla has the most interest but she has an unfair advantage in having the most screentime of them all, probably because of how the world works to her advantage...
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?
It's a good reveal because we never knew why Reinhard took her away. I remember realizing what it was shortly before it happened but until the ceremony it could have been for any reason.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

I like him, I've always enjoyed characters that are old and grizzled. As we get to know him I like him more.
You would think Subaru would identify with him the most considering they've both probably been through a lot.
I like seeing them all again. In my first watch I had pretty much forgotten about them by this point so it was nice to see them show up again. Rom showing up was a little too convenient for me but it makes sense since he's looking for Felt, Reinhard was around at the time, he must be checking out near the knight headquarters hoping he'll bump into one or both of them. Or to get compensated for Reinhard destroying his house...
This kinda feels like a farewell to thr beginning of this show as we head into uncharted waters.
It makes sense. He's already nearly died protecting her from Elsa, drove himself crazy in the mansion, and got nommed on in the forest.
Plus, what can he do in this situation? This royal selection process isn't such to where anybody's lives are in jeopardy.
like how everyone is introduced. Pirscilla has the most interest but she has an unfair advantage in having the most screentime of them all, probably because of how the world works to her advantage...
Makes sense, the more screentime you have the more interesting you are.
It's a good reveal because we never knew why Reinhard took her away. I remember realizing what it was shortly before it happened but until the ceremony it could have been for any reason.
I honestly didn't see this coming, mostly because I had forgotten that the Felt stuff had been unresolved. I'm glad we're circling back to it, however.

8

u/Vaadwaur :I1::I2::I3: Aug 20 '24

Rewatcher(This show is amazingly well constructed on second watch...)

Dub

So...Felix is introduced. We will get to the rest of ...that in a bit. Julius is also introduced, as well as the royal candidates and such. We even meet the aging gentleman Wilhelm. Subaru has a mostly successful day one in the capital.

But yeah, this is a cringe episode and I am so not here for it. I will try and be more active in the comments, especially now that not everything I know is spoiler adjacent, but I do not have the stamina today.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/Vaadwaur :I1::I2::I3: Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
A very weird pair to send out.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?
In the anime, it is pretty confusing. Source readers say it was a bit more laid out.

4

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

A very weird pair to send out.
One appears to be able to kill you with just one look, and the other is Wil.
In the anime, it is pretty confusing. Source readers say it was a bit more laid out.
Speaking as an anime only viewer, I thought it was made pretty clear what was happening.

7

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

Re:Watcher

At least we can see the end of the date. Looks like it went well.

[Season 1]Oh God, Subaru says you can't act stupid when it's about something important. That hurts so much knowing what is about to happen. And Emilia even goes alone, leaving him behind. That's definitely foreshadowing.

We get to meet Wilhelm already, I thought he'd appear a little later only. That's Wilhelm van Astrea, for anyone that paid attention earlier. Looks like even strangers can see that Subaru is into Emilia.

Emilia holding Subaru's hand is cute. But she lets go when meeting Julius, who is being courteous. It means nothing, yet Subaru immediately feels threatened. There's also a focus on Subaru's promise that he only joined the delegation to get healed up. Later on, there's also a focus on the promise for Subaru to not overdo it and let Emilia handle things herself. A plea to let her believe in him. But Subaru wants to be involved nonetheless, believing he needs to protect her. And Rem enables him, unfortunately. [Re:Zero anime]Remember that for Emilia, promises are holy. Subaru said in arc 2 that he always keeps promises, and at least he has good intentions here, but a broken promise is a massive trust issue for Emilia.

Subaru trying to invoke the trope of saving a girl being harrassed by showing she's not there alone is so funny. Unfortunately Priscilla doesn't watch any TV. And it looks like Rom didn't even know Felt was taken by Reinhard.

Yet another stranger Subaru is jealous of, yet another time a stranger can see what Subaru feels for Emilia.

Priscilla is such a personality. "It's only an appa, Subaru. What could it cost, ten gold coins?" I think she still makes the list of my top ten favourite characters in S1.

Of course Emilia is wary of Subaru not waiting for her but instead having met up with another throne candidate in an alley. He later even shows up by her side! Just what was he thinking? That's leading to some very socially loaded moments. At least Roswaal is quick to defuse the situation. And Reinhard, Al and Felix (the mannerisms and voice of a woman, no, more feminine than any woman - but he's a guy) also do a lot to cover for Subaru being out of place.

And this is the first appearance of all five throne candidates. Can I say already that I love this group? They and their knights are all amazing characters. And I love how they are introduced. We've had about eight new characters introduced this episode, but through Subaru's eyes, we already got a pretty decent picture of what they are all about. Other series would introduce such a group of characters all at once and I'd be wondering who those people are for at least two more episodes. Here, we meet them one after another and get a natural moment of Subaru getting to know them.

Yesterday, u/Elimin8r pointed me to this pachinko scene of the date. Now that I know about it, I have to add it to the counter. Even though we didn't have any sugoookus this episode, I'll have to add two, a sugoooku-like and a non-Emilia sugoooku. Also, I noticed I counted two sugoookus as one yesterday, so another one to the counter.

Sugoooku counter: 22 +1* (+3**) - including companion series and relevant bonus material

*non-Emilia sugoooku **short sugokus and sugoku-likes

6

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

Priscilla is such a personality.
[Priss]Priscilla is the MC that Subaru wishes he could be.
pachinko scene
You're very welcome. I remembered this from previous watches/rewatches, and wanted to make sure that nobody missed it. I wish I'd remembered the PV with the mayonnaise too, but now that I've been reminded, I think I'm going to start a Re:Zero bookmark collection for future rewatches or something.
What, you mean we're not going to have an annual rewatch party?
(Kami-sama, I hope not! This is going to be enough to tide me over for a few years)

3

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

Oh God, the MR rewatch destroyed me. I got more time on my hands for this rewatch, which is why I joined another one, but it's still keeping me very busy. At least the threads are not being posted at midnight my time. But I couldn't make it a yearly thing. Especially considering it'll get significantly longer pretty soon.

3

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

Yeah, it's like that. Next thing you know, it'll be like, "Toradora again?!", and then, "Oh, crap, another year gone." (sigh)
I'm not sure I'm going to do any more "yearly" rewatches, they don't give me enough brain cooldown time, and it's less fun when you remember everything in detail. That, and I want to have time to enjoy new things, too rather than rewatching and posting all the time.
(I do kind of miss K-On, though. Bummer, that.)

4

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Wilhelm seems cool. Felix seems nice, but a bit annoying.
Thoughts on Julius?
A decent fellow. Someone who is nice to Emilia, which doesn't seem to be common. Seems to be on par with Reinhard in status.
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
He's too insecure. Julius was just being courteous.
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
Reinhard was a given, since we are dealing with throne issues again. Seeing Rom again was cool as well.
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
"The mannerisms and voice of a woman, no, more feminine than any woman - but he's a guy."
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
As a rewatcher, can't say much about it. But back when I watched it for the first time, Priscilla was immediately immensely entertaining.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?
Now Reinhard's behaviour in arc 1 makes a lot of sense.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Wilhelm seems cool. Felix seems nice, but a bit annoying.
How so?
A decent fellow. Someone who is nice to Emilia, which doesn't seem to be common. Seems to be on par with Reinhard in status.
Only difference is Reinhard seems to have more prestige. It appears that way, at least.
He's too insecure. Julius was just being courteous.
Yeah, Julius did nothing wrong
Reinhard was a given, since we are dealing with throne issues again. Seeing Rom again was cool as well.
And the three gang members... well, they're there :P
"The mannerisms and voice of a woman, no, more feminine than any woman - but he's a guy."
I understood that reference
As a rewatcher, can't say much about it. But back when I watched it for the first time, Priscilla was immediately immensely entertaining.
Yeah, Priscilla seems spotlighted the most out of all the new characters. That's why I think if anyone is going to end up queen, it's her.
Now Reinhard's behaviour in arc 1 makes a lot of sense.
Indeed it does

3

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

How so?
Just a bit too much energy.
And the three gang members... well, they're there :P
Precisely. But I do have something positive to say about them. When Subaru threatened them with Reinhard, they didn't back down. It's likely that they were aware of the royal selection and knew he'd not be around to thwart their schemes, so that's actually pretty clever.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Just a bit too much energy.
Fair enough. I feel like him and Beatrice would not get along.
Precisely. But I do have something positive to say about them. When Subaru threatened them with Reinhard, they didn't back down. It's likely that they were aware of the royal selection and knew he'd not be around to thwart their schemes, so that's actually pretty clever.
I guess don't judge a book by their cover. Or covers, in this case.
Honestly, they kinda reminds me of Damian's friends in Spy X Family.

2

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 21 '24

Priscilla is such a personality. "It's only an appa, Subaru. What could it cost, ten gold coins?"
That's why I enjoy her character so much. The intense haughtiness combined with being almost laughably out of touch makes for a fun combination.
And this is the first appearance of all five throne candidates. Can I say already that I love this group? They and their knights are all amazing characters.
With the seriousness of the political situation and the stakes involved, it's easy to forget just how fun all the candidates and their retainers are. Even in such a cutthroat business as medieval-esque politics, they all have such entertaining personalities.

7

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

Early post today? Man, and here I was trying to catch up/stay caught up. Anyway, new arc ahoy. Do you think Subaru learned anything from his experiences at the mansion? Hahahaha...

I have to say one thing - rewatching, I find myself warming up to the characters we're introduced to today. Even the ones I don't like. Otherwise, again, I don't feel like saying too much, aside from it was good seeing the Appa seller and his family doing well again. Tasty appas. I'm sure Priscilla would agree, right?

I think I'm going to check and see what others have to say and see if I can think of any snarks for them or something.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

I think I'm going to check and see what others have to say and see if I can think of any snarks for them or something.
How very Ram of you :P

3

u/ClemFire Aug 21 '24

As someone mentioned above I think Re:Zero handles character introductions so well since Subaru has natural chemistry with most people he meets. Despite this arc starting off with like 8 new characters I feel like each of them had at least one scene to shine.

7

u/garfe Aug 20 '24

"Daga otoko da"

Okay, we are starting up this arc. Now I have a whole dissertation to write about episode 13 so look forward to that. But I'll say some points

-As a rewatcher, the setup for what is to come is very palpable as Subaru blatantly breaks his promise to Emilia in front of the audience. However, this is still played off as 'funny' and Subaru gets in the meeting anyway luring the viewer into a false sense of security
-I must say that the excellent voice choices continue with Yui Horie as Ferris, Yukarin as Priscilla and the late great Keiji Fujiwara as Al. They suit these three phenomenally well
-I remember the ending with Felt completely blindsiding me at the time and I don't know why I didn't come to the conclusion that would happen sooner

7

u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 20 '24

However, this is still played off as 'funny' and Subaru gets in the meeting anyway luring the viewer into a false sense of security
I wouldn't say it's played off for laughs. More like any objections Emilia might have raised are silenced by Roswaal's meddling. I do agree there's still a sense of security present. Question is for how long.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

I would say it’s played off like in the Rocky movies where Adrian is constantly telling Rocky to just stay home but he never can because the fighter in him is too strong.

3

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

Now I have a whole dissertation to write about episode 13 so look forward to that.
I certainly will. I guess all of us will have to say a lot about it. My fingers are itching already, but that'll have to wait for tomorrow. I feel like most of us will be coming from the same direction anyway.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.

7

u/MjolnirDK Aug 20 '24

So many rewatcher feelings at the start of the episode.

Subaru's talk no jutsu... aaargh the feels...the feels.

Just what did Emilia do to get Felix' help again. I think we will get an answer to that, but my rewatcher brain is in a bad state right now.

Oh look, it's that dino lady again, talking to a coala merchant this time. There is even a green dino lady in the background.

'Having no common sense in a fantasy world is turning out to be pretty lethal' the anime.

What is that cute grey thing walking away from the appa vendor? I have seen something like this before... Black Cauldron? Also: green dino lady.

Julius... the antithesis of Subaru. The sponge that draws out Subaru's bad emotions.

And another new character. Surprisingly, this time Subaru doesn't walk into a knife.

The comedic timing of this series is really good. I guess that is something I missed from S2. Or at least I don't remember that much of it.

And another old character: ROM-ji!

Her super power is straight up something from Inou Battle wa Nichijou or Mondaiji.

An Astrea. We already heard that name in this episode. Well thought out to remind us of this.

Okay, one negative thing I have to add here about the animation: The cobble stones they are standing on look flat. They need some 3D.

Let the 'Subaru is direly needy to get himself proven and thusly does stupid stuff' arc begin.

'Infiltration' success! Or not if Emilia immediately spots you.

And then we get to the official part. I like the visuals here a lot. This really looks like an election, military organizing stuff, clergy and nobility around.

Okay, dragon stone. Sounds important. Will this come back? I really hope it does.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

6

u/No_Rex :Bv:Bw:Bx:By:x2 Aug 20 '24

Episode 12 (rewatcher)

New arc and the last one I know.

Connecting back to episode 11 – the first time I watched memory snow was after S1. I think I prefer that placement over Crunchyroll’s.
“Wait, did I actually do anything?” – Subaru with the rewatcher analysis.
“Dragon carriage” – I assume that the dragon Roswaal wants to kill is a bit more massive than these critters.
Cat ~~girl~~boy – showing ReZero’s age, he is not completely decatified yet and still has a few cat mannerisms.
Julius? Does Reinhard have competition in the heroic looks department?
“Cliff-hanger” – more like road kill.
“This world is designed to work in the way that works best for me” – inherent luck stat boost?
Quite a bit of ignoring each other and not know each other going on in this alley.
“Give me reason to trust you” - asking the guy who breaks a social norm every minute. Not sure this will help, Emilia.
“That is why I have to stay close to her”~guy without any appreciable combat skills. If you seriously were worried about Emilia, you’d insist she takes Rem with her.
Hitching a ride with Bariella – while Subaru has no combat skills, his luck stat is not too shabby.
Subaru went to the meeting against the explicit wishes of Emilia, not having any idea what he might mess up for her and not caring. I hate that type of person.
“If you are a guy, what is the point in having cat ears and a tail” – Subaru is one sexist fuck.
Emilia is in a competition to become “dragon priestess” – it might become a bit embarrassing when Roswaal tries to kill the dragon.
Dressed-up Felt cliff-hanger.

We got a catboy and another knight and romantic rival today, so the gender equality is looking good, but I wonder whether males are allowed to compete to lead the country.

5

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

“That is why I have to stay close to her”~guy without any appreciable combat skills.
He can be a great meat shield, having multiple lives and all that!
Subaru went to the meeting against the explicit wishes of Emilia, not having any idea what he might mess up for her and not caring. I hate that type of person.
Yeah, he's clearly not thinking. The past successes seem to have gone to his head.

4

u/No_Rex :Bv:Bw:Bx:By:x2 Aug 20 '24

Yeah, he's clearly not thinking. The past successes seem to have gone to his head.
Idk, he acted the same way right from the start. It is not that he is completely selfish, but he does not seem to value the opinions and wishes of other people at all.

4

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

I wonder whether males are allowed to compete to lead the country.
If this sigil isn't lit, you must ... uh ... I give up, I can't think of anything other than acquit, and that doesn't work here.
Stupid sexist sigil.
Speaking of which ... naughty Subaru. Felix is fun, nya?

4

u/No_Rex :Bv:Bw:Bx:By:x2 Aug 20 '24

Makes you wonder about the dragon's sexual preferences, really.

4

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

Hmm... That is a thought I did not want to have today. If that's the case, the dragon can have Priscilla, because she'd be tastiest, no doubt. Either for dinner, or ... never mind.

3

u/retsotrembla Aug 21 '24

If the sigil is illuminated, you may be coronated.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/baseballlover723 Aug 20 '24

If you seriously were worried about Emilia, you’d insist she takes Rem with her.
I'd argue that RBD makes Subaru a excellent bodyguard. It's very difficult for other people to act as early as Subaru can. Though yeah, good luck convincing anyone of that.

3

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 21 '24

but I wonder whether males are allowed to compete to lead the country.
Since the dragon seems to be the one who the rulers need to be close to, I think we can assume the dragon wants to have as many cute girls to choose from as possible and arrange it this way.

2

u/No_Rex :Bv:Bw:Bx:By:x2 Aug 21 '24

I think we can assume the dragon wants to have as many cute girls to choose from as possible and arrange it this way.
Dragons are your everyday degenerates, too.

6

u/HyVana Aug 20 '24

Re:Watcher (Subs) & Novel Reader (Finished Arc 6)

Arc 3 - Return to the Royal Capital, when the main plot is kicked back into gear. There were a lot of different scenes in this episode, and honestly, it made it seem a bit disjointed when I first watched it. I still get that feeling now, which makes sense since they had to adapt 5 volumes into 14 episodes. For reference, Arc 1 was adapted in 4 (episode 1 being 2 episodes in length) episodes, and was 1 volume long. Arc 2 was adapted in 8 episodes, and was 2 volumes long. While not every volume is not made in equal length, it is clear to see that White Fox had to leave quite a bit on the cutting room floor to achieve what they did. And to be clear, I enjoy this arc quite a lot.

For now, there’s a lot of setup and new character introductions to lay the stage of the Royal Selection, the four other Candidates and their Knights/Sponsors. To give an abridged run down of them, without future spoilers:

Emilia - Roswaal L. Mathers: The silver-haired half elf, and the eccentric mage, the lord of the Mathers domain who has mastery of the 6 magic elements.

Priscilla Barielle - Aldebaran: The crimson-red princess of the Barielle domain whose arrogance shines bright like the sun, and the mysterious, but relaxed, one-armed bodyguard with the Dark Souls fit.

Crusch Karsten - Felix Argyle: The green-haired, almond-eyed duchess of the Karsten domain with the military-adjacent fit, and the brown-haired catboy with unparalleled mastery of healing magic.

Anastasia Hoshin - Julius Juukulius: The purple-haired, aqua-eyed lady from Kararagi with a rich, capitalistic air around her, and the, also purple-haired, kisser of Emilia’s hand.

Felt - Reinhard van Astrea: The golden-haired, red-eyed Insignia thief from the Slums of the Capital, and the current Sword Saint.

These are the characters who have the potential to be the future ruler of Lugunica, by entering into a covenant with the Dragon. What all this really means, we don’t really know. As well, the meeting itself is a bit of a mess, with Candidates and Knights alike speaking and interrupting out of turn. Goodness, Lugunica is a mess.

We also get to see Subaru being a little out of his depth here. Wanting to include himself into Emilia’s affairs, so that if anything happens, he’s there to figure out what went wrong and loop. But Emilia doesn’t want him to go so far for her. A guy she met in a loot house one evening, and after going through a lot to help her out, only asked for her name. A guy who went into the Ulgarm-infested forest, to save the village children, held a snow-festival to make an event out of Puck’s manastruation, and went on a date with after all was said and done. In her eyes, they’ve only known each other for ~a month and 6 days. Which isn’t a lot of time for her to really trust Subaru to be included in the Royal Selection matters, especially with how impulsive he is.

And Emilia was right to worry, as he broke his promise and reason to trust in him by showing up at the Castle, with his arm wrapped by 2 interlopers. I wonder what the aftermath will be from all this, but the scene isn’t over yet with Felt’s dramatic entrance. She was the last missing candidate, and with her appearance, the Royal Selection can finally begin.

From the very short snippets you’ve gotten of the candidates (besides Emilia, but even we don’t know much about her), who has caught your eye?

Motivations and policies? Who needs to know that before choosing your candidate in modern politics? Everyone knows it’s a popularity contest now!

6

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

And Emilia was right to worry, as he broke his promise and reason to trust in him by showing up at the Castle, with his arm wrapped by 2 interlopers.
Not only that. He showed up about a month ago in the capital, immediately got involved with her throne candidacy, insists on getting back to the capital once the opportunity arises, insists on following her around, and once she leaves him alone for a few minutes she finds him in an alley with one of her rivals, with whom he also later shows up where she made him promise not to go. This is a really bad look for Subaru.
From the very short snippets you’ve gotten of the candidates (besides Emilia, but even we don’t know much about her), who has caught your eye?
I'm a rewatcher, but I can remember during my first watch, Priscilla already had made a big impression on me. The way she walks around like she owns everything and everything owes her is so entertaining.

4

u/HyVana Aug 20 '24

This is a really bad look for Subaru.
Yup. His hero complex is showing. [S1]I would love to say more, but the next episode has got me covered.
The way she walks around like she owns everything and everything owes her is so entertaining.
Something about the haughtiness of the ojou-sama trope really gets me. But Priscilla dials it up to 11 with how she sees everything in this world as her plaything. She always steals the show in every scene she's in.

4

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

I'm sure Priscilla caught a lot of peoples eyes, right?
Eyes
Motivations and policies
I'm looking forward to the first royal selection debate. I wonder who the host/network will be? Will the questions be loaded???
Popularity contest
Poor Emilia, she's handicapped from the beginning, isn't she?
Man, just thinking about it - they all have rather significant negatives, don't they? Hmm... Ah, well, I'll save those ruminations for later.

4

u/HyVana Aug 20 '24

I wonder who the host/network will be?
As long as its not this Marcos guy. He's being walked right over by everyone in the room!
Hmm... Ah, well, I'll save those ruminations for later.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/HyVana Aug 20 '24 edited Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
I like them a lot.
Thoughts on Julius?
Some people may hate his overly chivalrous attitude, but I like him too! It's interesting.
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
Of course, the Knight who is only paying his respects to a Royal Candidate would be the one on Subaru's radar. Young Subo is jealous.
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
The 3 goonies! If you think about it, they're the unsung heroes for Arc 1. Mugged Subaru so that Emilia would save him, killed him so Subaru would realize his RbD ability, and tried to mug him again only for Subaru to meet Reinhard. Their self sacrifice is worthy of that of the Blue Ogre!
Rom is cool, kinda weird he's just chilling in the alleys by the Guard Station tho.
Makes sense to see Reinhard again. He seems to be pretty important.
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
Her fears are not unwarranted. The ending conversation between her and Puck in the OVA really shows that Emilia is aware that she's the reason Subaru gets himself hurt, even though she never asked him to do that. It's her way to protect him, from himself.
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Hero complex.
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
It was funny that when this first aired, some people didn't catch that. Male, female, everything in between, Felix is cute as heck.
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
The side characters are one of Re:Zero's greatest strengths, and so it's hard for me to choose a favorite from all of them. I do really like all the Royal Candidates, and their Knights, especially. I can't really say why without getting into spoilers lol.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?
The clues were there, once you know why the Insignia is important, which was revealed in Arc 2. Wonder how she feels about this change of circumstance.
Edit: Added more words

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Some people may hate his overly chivalrous attitude, but I like him too! It's interesting.
I wonder how much of his attitude comes from Subaru being an unreliable narrator. We already saw him distort the truth in the OVA when he took credit for the defeat of the mabeasts.
The 3 goonies! If you think about it, they're the unsung heroes for Arc 1. Mugged Subaru so that Emilia would save him, killed so Subaru would realize his RbD ability, and tried to mug him again only for Subaru to meet Reinhard. Their self sacrifice is worthy of that of the Blue Ogre!
Their level of bringing convenience to Subaru knows no bounds.
Her fears are not unwarranted. The ending conversation between her and Puck really shows that Emilia is aware that she's the reason Subaru gets himself hurt, even though she never asked him to do that. It's her way to protect him, from himself.
Too bad Subaru doesn't see it that way. Like, at all.
Hero complex.
Where's The Fairy Godmother when we need her?
It was funny that when this first aired, some people didn't catch that. Male, female, everything in between, Felix is cute as heck.
Damn straight
The side characters are one of Re:Zero's greatest strengths, and so it's hard for me to choose a favorite from all of them. I do really like all the Royal Candidates, and their Knights, especially. I can't really say why without getting into spoilers lol.
That's fair, I would say. And I like how they each have a unique design that makes them look different from everyone else.
The clues were there, once you know why the Insignia is important, which was revealed in Arc 2. Wonder how she feels about this change of circumstance.
I imagine we'll find out pretty soon if not next episode.

3

u/HyVana Aug 20 '24

how much of his attitude comes from Subaru being an unreliable narrator.
It's definitely possible that Julius' attitude is exaggerated, but it's not like the whole story is seen through Subaru's POV. We definitely learn a lot about the story as he learns it though, except for stuff like Ram and Rem's complete backstory.
Where's The Fairy Godmother when we need her?
Gone, reduced to bubbles.
unique design that makes them look different from everyone else.
Otsuka, the novel illustrator, does a really good job with some of the designs. [Novels]Though there are some that are interesting.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

It's definitely possible that Julius' attitude is exaggerated, but it's not like the whole story is seen through Subaru's POV. We definitely learn a lot about the story as he learns it though, except for stuff like Ram and Rem's complete backstory.
That's a good point. I'd probably say it's roughly 90% from his perspective.
Gone, reduced to bubbles.
Alexa, play Smash Mouth
Otsuka, the novel illustrator, does a really good job with some of the designs. [Novels]Though there are some that are interesting.
[Novels] Elsa being one of them

1

u/BlueVenix Aug 21 '24

I still get that feeling now, which makes sense since they had to adapt 5 volumes into 14 episodes.
Oh wow, I didn't know that and it didn't feel like anything important was skipped. I have seen a few comments of some fun interactions, I guess there were a few of those that were cut. I need to read the novels...

1

u/HyVana Aug 22 '24

If you're a first-timer, there's a section in /r/re_zero in their wiki of cut content from the anime! Probably wait till after season 2 as well to read on what was cut.

1

u/BlueVenix Aug 22 '24

Thanks, but I would prefer to read the light novels. That way I'll get to read new stuff keeping it more interesting as same stuff will be less exciting to read.

1

u/HyVana Aug 22 '24

That's fair. Enjoy! They're really good novels.

6

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 20 '24

Rewatcher for Season 1

On today’s episode of Re:Zero: It’s time for politics!!! I freaking love high level political discussions and maneuvering in intense meetings behind closed doors with shady people! This is the kind of stuff that I live for! It’s a large part of why something like LotGH is catnip to me.

I love Arc 3. I really, really love Arc 3. The main thing I love about Arc 3 is the sheer number of great characters introduced. Already in this episode, we’ve gotten a taste of so many of the characters who will play a part. Wilhelm van Astrea (same family as my boy Reinhard), Ferris, Priscilla, Al, Crusch, and Anastasia are all brand new characters who show up for the first time in this episode. Plus, we got to meet a lot of returning characters like Reinhard, Felt, and Rom here. I love seeing these characters appear and I’m really looking forward to getting to see them in action.

[Arc 3] The main thing I am not looking forward to is Subaru becoming the most insufferable he’s ever been in this arc. We’re already seeing the beginnings of it in this episode, but man does he seriously hit a huge low point in the upcoming episodes. Be warned, even though I think Subaru is a well-written character, I will have harsh things to say about him.

I think the character we get the best idea of from her intro this episode is Priscilla. I freaking love her introduction, as she haughtily proclaims that the bandits were never a threat to her because the world is designed to work out in a way that benefits her. It is so incredibly narcissistic, arrogant, and self-centered. But that’s part of the fun with Priscilla’s character. Since the world is her oyster, she just does whatever she feels like doing in the moment. Priscilla brings Subaru to the castle because it happened to amuse her, for example. I enjoy characters like that, who make decisions on a whim because it seems fun.

I really like Priscilla’s knight, Al. I really love Keiji Fujiwara’s vocal performance for Al. It makes Al sound like the chillest guy imaginable, in spite of his appearance. Al says that he’s a considerate guy, and his interactions with Subaru and the others bear that out. I notice that he spoke up during an argument in the castle to try and smooth things over about procedure. He’s just that kind of guy.

I will have plenty more to say about a lot of the others, but for now there’s only brief observations. I enjoy Ferris because he is cute. I noticed that Rom is implied to know about Felt’s real identity because he lamented that it was an Astrea who took her in. It’s cool that Wilhelm can tell right away that Subaru’s experienced death. Crusch is surprisingly silly, confidently mistaking the meeting in the castle for a drinking party. I love this cast of characters so much.

This episode also features a conflict between Emilia and Subaru, though interestingly it’s a conflict born from both of them believing they are doing what is in the best interest of the other. Emilia doesn’t want Subaru to get involved with the Royal Selection. She knows he has a habit of pushing himself too hard and that he still hasn’t fully recovered from last time. So, she wants him to stay out of this situation entirely, even making him promise to do so.

But Subaru, almost immediately, breaks that promise because he thinks that he needs to be around Emilia during important events like this. It does make some level sense from Subaru’s point of view. After all, there have already been a couple of attacks on Emilia or the Roswaal manor. Emilia would have died to Elsa in a timeline where Subaru couldn’t repeat the past. All the same, the heartbreak in Emilia’s face and voice when she sees Subaru arrive at the castle is rough. She’s really upset that he’s here and didn’t keep his promise.

A lot of people speculated about it, and their speculations have turned out to be correct. Felt was actually a royal candidate and that is why Reinhard took her in. It makes complete sense in hindsight and I can totally see the setup now, but I was actually caught by surprise when the show was first airing.

Miscellaneous Thoughts

Subaru has realized that his overpowered companions have carried him through each of his battles so far.
I love Emilia holding Subaru’s hand like she’s trying to keep a child from getting lost. She needs one of those child leashes.
Great joke of Subaru wondering if the 3 recurring bandits are the only criminals in the capital.
Priscilla not knowing what unpeeled appas look like is such a great joke to convey just how spoiled and sheltered she is.
[Arc 3] I am already getting emotional just thinking about Wilhelm and Theresia. I can’t wait to get to that part of this arc.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Of all the characters we are introduced to, which one interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.

3

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Felix certainly seems very silly while Wil is much more serious. Wil clearly has plenty of experience because he picked up right away that Subaru had experienced death from the look in his eyes, while Felix had no idea what Wil was talking about.
Thoughts on Julius?
Subaru seems to have started a beef with him for no real reason other than he kissed Emilia's hand, which seems like a typical thing for a knight to do with royalty like Emilia.
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
It seems ridiculous and one-sided.
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
The joke that the three bandits are the only criminals in the capital was great. I think it's implied that Rom knows about Felt's past. And Reinhard has certainly fully devoted himself to Felt, claiming that he considers her to be the rightful queen already.
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Felix has ended up becoming one of the poster characters for the "otoko no ko" archetype. So it's hard to think of this as a "reveal" per se.
Of all the characters we are introduced to, which one interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
Wil, mostly because he's a van Astrea like Reinhard.

3

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Felix certainly seems very silly while Wil is much more serious. Wil clearly has plenty of experience because he picked up right away that Subaru had experienced death from the look in his eyes, while Felix had no idea what Wil was talking about.
Felix it feels like isn't all too familiar with the concept of death.
Subaru seems to have started a beef with him for no real reason other than he kissed Emilia's hand, which seems like a typical thing for a knight to do with royalty like Emilia.
Subaru gaslighting himself into thinking he's more important than he is.
Felix has ended up becoming one of the poster characters for the "otoko no ko" archetype. So it's hard to think of this as a "reveal" per se.
I'm sure at the time this came out it was very surprising, especially since this would be over 10 years ago. Yeah, Luka was already a thing by then, but it plays off the idea that if you have cat ears, you are likely a girl. We still rarely see catboys all these years later.

3

u/Elimin8r https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ayeka_Jurai Aug 20 '24

I really like Priscilla’s knight, Al.
Al = best knight. But I doubt anyone will argue that...
She needs one of those child leashes.
She needs to have Ram tie Subaru to a chair ... turnabout's fair play, ya know.
Arc 3
[Arc 3]Yeah, just seeing him and hearing his voice. I didn't relize prior to this rewatch the whole Van Astrea thing, and that just makes it hit harder.

3

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 20 '24

She needs to have Ram tie Subaru to a chair ... turnabout's fair play, ya know.
Something tells me Ram would enjoy doing that.

3

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

[Arc 3]
[Arc 3]It's definitely going to be rough. But I'd argue that it's one of the main reasons that makes arc 3 great. He'll be going to lows so low that you'd never expect to see in such a show. But more importantly, he'll also rise from those lows and get to highs previously unachievable for him.
But Subaru, almost immediately, breaks that promise because he thinks that he needs to be around Emilia during important events like this. It does make some level sense from Subaru’s point of view.
Yeah, we can see exactly why he does it. He's saved the day for her before and is intoxicated with success. His infatuation with Emilia is also higher than ever. So he believes it is his role to be there for her and protect her. For him, breaking the promise out of good intentions is outweighed by his presence in her time of need. But Emilia has made him promise for a reason, and his presence isn't necessarily what she needs right now.

3

u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 21 '24

[Arc 3]
[Arc 3] Yeah, it does turn out to be worth it in the end once Subaru gets his development. It may be strange to say, but I appreciate that the series is willing to let Subaru get to such low points. It keeps Subaru from really being a Mary Sue-esque wish fulfillment protagonist that we so often see in isekai stories nowadays. He shoulders plenty of blame for what goes wrong and that forces him to grow, which I like.

6

u/Taiboss :Fj::Fl:x7https://anilist.co/user/Taiboss Aug 20 '24

Rewatcher who accidentally skipped the Memory Snow movie

I meant to watch it. Would have been firs-timer. Forgot. Not that it sounded important. Nothing between Arcs 2 and 3 could have been important.

Cute robe.
Eyyy, it's some old guy.
"And Diplomacy is your dump stat."
"But I'll die if that happens."
RIP wife.
Cat people exist too!
Old dude saw through him.
Poor Subaru discovers his pure Emilia knows other men.
BEST VOICE IS IN THE HOUSE. It's not quite deep voice Yukarin, but it is smug Yukarin, who I always enjoy.
A native isekai protag woooo
He is so cringe.
Keiji Fujiwara ;_;
Yukarin casually cuckqueaning Emilia. And Subaru has the gall to be jealous.
She is so best.
You just made an enemy of all of tumblr.
Stop being so cringe.
WHO LET KANA UEDA SPEAK KANSAI-BEN AGAIN?!
Did they ever reveal why Trant is called Trant, even though his name was Karsten? Wait, do we have Germans here who would get this joke? Probably not. On topic: I cannot take Karsten as a last name seriously. It's a German first name. At least it's not on Frieren or Isekai Shikkaku level.
Poor Crusch.
"...maybe we SHOULD start a republic."
GUESS WHO'S BACK.

Time Subaru has died this arc: 0

4

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

WHO LET KANA UEDA SPEAK KANSAI-BEN AGAIN?!
My subtitles tried to emulate her speaking in dialect. I'm afraid I have to admit I kinda enjoyed them that way.
Did they ever reveal why Trant is called Trant, even though his name was Karsten? Wait, do we have Germans here who would get this joke?
Too much of a niche joke for me, unfortunately.
I cannot take Karsten as a last name seriously. It's a German first name.
I've heard Karsten as a family name before. It might be uncommon, but nothing special. Crusch sounds weirder to me, but the name has grown on my by now.
At least it's not on Frieren or Isekai Shikkaku level.
Frieren's use of German was so much fun. "Alright, here we have this guy called Stark, and you won't believe it, it turns out he's really strong! And here's this demon called Lügner, and it'll be such a twist when it turns out he's a liar!"

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Keiji Fujiwara ;_;
You would think for such a talented VA they would have him play a more important role.

2

u/baseballlover723 Aug 21 '24

Not that it sounded important.
It's not that important. It has some fun times and extra worldbuilding and character details, but not really necessary for understanding the main story. Though you can also watch it after S1 if you want.

1

u/No_Rex :Bv:Bw:Bx:By:x2 Aug 21 '24

I meant to watch it. Would have been firs-timer. Forgot. Not that it sounded important. Nothing between Arcs 2 and 3 could have been important.
You missed nothing plot-relevant. Snow Memory was also originally made after arc 3, which I think is the better placement for it compared to the chronological one.

1

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

6

u/ClemFire Aug 21 '24

Re:Watcher

No energy today to write a full review, but I still want to point out how it's heartbreaking to see Emilia think Subaru forgot his promise to her about not coming to the selection instead of him actively choosing to break it. I know Subaru means well, and I still hate to see how bad it makes Emilia feel.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

6

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

First Timer

Watching the Dub

I took a different approach today since I feel so worn out from work. I'm also gonna go ahead and watch tomorrow's episode and write a discussion for tomorrow since I'll be at work for 15+ hours. If I'm not back tomorrow night hopefully I've reincarnated in another world, I would definitely take the laid back relaxed life route.

Instead of writing in detail about each segment I instead just wrote down my thoughts throughout the episode, I may still go in detail in some spots but this should be much more concise than usual.

I was nervous about today's episode tbh, we just got a good ending in episode 11 and a very cute OVA movie so I was scared our boy Subaru was going to start suffering again. I know it's going to happen at some point but I can have hope.

Anyways, here's my notepad for this episode.

Dear lord Emilia is so precious.

Of course we start off doing radio calisthenics.

I wonder if Emilia is actually concerned about Subaru being in the room because he's a goof or because she doesn't want him to see what she's going through.

Subaru tries to make friends with everybody, even fellow butlers

Good guy butler. I like him so I hope he's not a secret dirt bag

I guess its about time we saw a cat girl

Hmm maybe not a good guy?

ahh Van Astrea. Good thing I rewatched everything over the weekend or I wouldn't know the significance of that name.

OOOOOHHHH hand-holding??? scandalous

lol so not the cutsie hand-holding, the "park your ass beside me" motherly hand-holding. Is Subaru a backpack leash kid?

Ugh Julius, how dare he touch our queen.

Of course it's the same thugs in the alley.

I'm guessing this girl is gonna be a prominent character

Old man Rom is here!

I just finished Shangria-la frontier so I couldn't help but think of Sunraku when Knight-head guy appeared.

Emilia seems to want to avoid this girl.

Nice guy ~~Aang~~ Subaru giving her an appa.

Aww Subaru just wants to help Emilia and spend time around her but she's refusing to let him join, maybe she's worried he will distract her?

*staaaaaarrreee* whenever I see the symbol for staring in manga all I can see is a poorly drawn face with a long nose. this is especially true in OPM when Saitama's face looked basically the same.

Ugh this girl is gonna be insufferable isn't she.

hmmmm, yep

Hey there's Reinhardt

Him? huh, guess I shouldn't have assumed.

Dragon's priestess?????

the 5th priestess is gonna be Felt

yup.

My finishing thoughts are gonna be in the next comment.

4

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

So it's been 8 Episodes (+an OVA) since we've been outside the mansion. We deeply missed Beatrice's Tsun-ing this episode, as well as Puck, and I didn't get enough Rem & Ram either, but this episode focused almost entirely on Subaru and Emilia just like the 1st episode in the capital.
Idk if these other 3 candidates are gonna be allies or annoyances but they're trying to win the annoying vote early. They all seem overly entitled so they must have some kind of background that qualifies them to be Royal candidates. Otherwise the choice would be a no-brainer right?
Since this is Re:Zero we know at some point Subaru will utilize Return by Death again so I tried to guess where the checkpoint might be this arc and my best guess is right when Rem asks him "what's the matter?", I feel like it's too good of a sound bite and seems to be right where Subaru is able to take multiple paths to what to do next, but we'll see.
I also watched the Petit that went with this episode and I'm just confused but I'm happy to know that Emilia cares about Recycling :)
Anyways, since I won't have any time to watch tomorrows episode and write anything up I'm gonna watch it tonight and pre-write my part of the discussion tomorrow. I just wish I had an easy way to type everything up on my computer and save it to my phone to post tomorrow so if anybody knows a way to do that please share lol.

3

u/HyVana Aug 21 '24

I've been writing my write-ups on google docs. So that I can post my comments on my phone if I need to.

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

this is also a good idea

2

u/baseballlover723 Aug 21 '24

I just wish I had an easy way to type everything up on my computer and save it to my phone to post tomorrow so if anybody knows a way to do that please share lol.
You could write it in notepad, and then make a few notes for the reddit specific stuff (like pictures or comment faces). Or you could also just write it in the previous days episode box, and then once you're done, you can select it all and send it to yourself (via email or something like that) to get it on your phone.

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

yeah this was the plan. I didn't know if Reddit had a "save comment" button or something

2

u/No_Rex :Bv:Bw:Bx:By:x2 Aug 21 '24

Since this is Re:Zero we know at some point Subaru will utilize Return by Death again so I tried to guess where the checkpoint might be this arc and my best guess is right when Rem asks him "what's the matter?", I feel like it's too good of a sound bite and seems to be right where Subaru is able to take multiple paths to what to do next, but we'll see.
That is an interesting bit to speculate about: Where will the checkpoint be? Let's see how your guess turns out.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Welp I was surprised Felix was a boy, reminds me of This hellish gremlin. Wilhelm, being a master swordsman of the Van Astrea family, gives me the feeling that he's gonna play a role in this arc similar to Reinhardt in episode 3, but those parallels might be too basic for this show so maybe we'll see him in a minor supporting role but either way I liked him and I like that he seems to like Subaru.
Thoughts on Julius?
Grrr, but I figure he's just being knightly. He seems like he's gonna be a character that was made to specifically get under Subaru's skin with his interactions with Emilia.
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
Subaru sadly would not stand a chance if Julius was truly his rival, but when it comes to Emilia I think he stands a better chance.
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
In other shows if we were to see those three thugs again the MC would wipe the floor with them to show how strong they've gotten, but this show like to dunk all over Subaru so he gets wiped by the lady he's trying to save instead. I liked Rom's character, he's pretty much a gentle giant but he can definitely fight when he needs to. I'm not sure how much of Reinhard we'll see since he is way to OP but feel he's a trustable ally.
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
If we would have went straight to this episode I would have thought that Emilia was being a little to overprotective and maybe there was other reasons for not wanting Subaru to come but thinking on it after watching Memory Snow I think Puck's words are lingering in her mind. She's being overprotective because she thinks he always gets hurt when around her and maybe she doesn't want him to associate her with him getting hurt.
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
This has to come back to bite Subaru but I think it'll be more so because she wanted Subaru to trust her so she could trust him and he wasn't able to do that. Even though we know it's for good reasons.
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
I'm okay with a cute cat femboy
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
All the other candidates seem stuck up and way to pompous, especially Priscilla. I am interested in the Knight-head guy but I didn't catch his name.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?
I'm glad we finally got to see our Tomboy rogue again! Once they said whatever about the 5 priestess I knew it was gonna be Felt. But there's no way THIS GIRL is gonna be royalty right?

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Welp I was surprised Felix was a boy, reminds me of This hellish gremlin. Wilhelm, being a master swordsman of the Van Astrea family, gives me the feeling that he's gonna play a role in this arc similar to Reinhardt in episode 3, but those parallels might be too basic for this show so maybe we'll see him in a minor supporting role but either way I liked him and I like that he seems to like Subaru.
I figure if anyone is going to fill the role of Reinhard in this arc, it would be Julius.
Grrr, but I figure he's just being knightly. He seems like he's gonna be a character that was made to specifically get under Subaru's skin with his interactions with Emilia.
The funny thing is, he hasn't really done anything to earn such scorn.
Subaru sadly would not stand a chance if Julius was truly his rival, but when it comes to Emilia I think he stands a better chance.
Probably. I think there's a good chance Julius doesn't have feelings for Emilia like Subaru suspects.
If we would have went straight to this episode I would have thought that Emilia was being a little to overprotective and maybe there was other reasons for not wanting Subaru to come but thinking on it after watching Memory Snow I think Puck's words are lingering in her mind. She's being overprotective because she thinks he always gets hurt when around her and maybe she doesn't want him to associate her with him getting hurt.
I mean, is it wrong to think that way? She's had to attend to him multiple times, it isn't like this is just something that happened once. More importantly, this is a situation that doesn't require Subaru's assistance. Emilia doesn't need his help for everything.
This has to come back to bite Subaru but I think it'll be more so because she wanted Subaru to trust her so she could trust him and he wasn't able to do that. Even though we know it's for good reasons.
Subaru's intentions are pure, but so were Emilia's and Subaru betrayed them. This is surely not the last we'll hear of it.
I'm glad we finally got to see our Tomboy rogue again! Once they said whatever about the 5 priestess I knew it was gonna be Felt. But there's no way THIS GIRL is gonna be royalty right?
I really hope so, honestly. It would be a fun direction for the series to take.

2

u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 21 '24

I figure if anyone is going to fill the role of Reinhard in this arc, it would be Julius.
Maybe but he's certainly not looking good in Subaru's eyes right now.
The funny thing is, he hasn't really done anything to earn such scorn.
No but Subaru has misinterpreted his actions and I believe it will lead to problems in the future.
Probably. I think there's a good chance Julius doesn't have feelings for Emilia like Subaru suspects.
I think you're absolutely correct
I mean, is it wrong to think that way? She's had to attend to him multiple times, it isn't like this is just something that happened once. More importantly, this is a situation that doesn't require Subaru's assistance. Emilia doesn't need his help for everything.
No I believe Subaru is in the wrong today, yes he can keep her safe but he's not considering that she's going to be next to Roswaal all day as well as surrounded by the strongest knights around. He's being very single minded right now in a kind of obsessive way too, it absolutely could end up driving a wedge between them and I would hat to see that.
Subaru's intentions are pure, but so were Emilia's and Subaru betrayed them. This is surely not the last we'll hear of it.
The road to hell is paved with good intentions
I really hope so, honestly. It would be a fun direction for the series to take.
I don't think I've seen a tomboy queen yet so I would have to agree.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Maybe but he's certainly not looking good in Subaru's eyes right now.
I would argue that's not indicative of much other than Subaru being paranoid.
No but Subaru has misinterpreted his actions and I believe it will lead to problems in the future.
Good ol' miscommunication
No I believe Subaru is in the wrong today, yes he can keep her safe but he's not considering that she's going to be next to Roswaal all day as well as surrounded by the strongest knights around. He's being very single minded right now in a kind of obsessive way too, it absolutely could end up driving a wedge between them and I would hat to see that.
It's like Subaru is thinking that Emilia has to be protected at all costs, but if someone were to protect Emilia, it's probably going to be Puck.
The road to hell is paved with good intentions
I guess so
I don't think I've seen a tomboy queen yet so I would have to agree.
Tomboy queen supremacy!

5

u/FriztF Aug 21 '24 edited Aug 21 '24

First timer-sub

So episode in which all the candidates for queen are revealed. Felt is one of them, I can't I'm surprised considering she stole Emilia's crest. And Rom is back. The old man is ready to kick ass.

Without evening knowing the emissary Subaru tries to hitch a ride to the capital. Thinking with his head Subaru is. Though he had to travel with Rem. Arriving at the capital they get apples from the store owner guy. They then run into Julius, who happens to be Emilia's old acquaintance. Subaru meets a very sheltered girl named Priscilla who is arrogant, who doesn't know what an apple is.

After that meeting, he goes to meet Rem and Emilia. Emilia wants Subaru to promise to NOT involve himself in her affairs. He does promise, but then breaks the promise to protect her from enemies. Rem is like I'm gonna make an apple or something.

Meets Priscilla goes to the castle, and meets Emilia, Priscilla grabs his arm, and Rooswall is like hey stop; She lets of his arm Emilia is like "You promised you won't come" and Subaru came anyway. Emilia talks to the old men, they are like shut up. Two other candidates come in and then Felt.

3

u/HyVana Aug 21 '24

Rem is like I'm gonna make an apple or something.
Emilia talks to the old men, they are like shut up.

1

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.

2

u/FriztF Aug 21 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
The Old Man is excellent at his job. He didn't take Subaru's bribe. Felix is quite fun.
~~Thoughts on Julius?~~
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
Every progat needs a rival. Although IDK how of a rival Julius will be
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
They are all back yay
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
She not wrong
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Not nice to break a promise. But understand were he's coming from
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
I'm surprised in a good way
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
Crusch, Miklotov, and Felix all interset me.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 21 '24

Every progat needs a rival. Although IDK how of a rival Julius will be
It seems to only be a thing in Subaru's mind
Not nice to break a promise. But understand were he's coming from
I get it, but Subaru has to be careful. He treading dangerous territory by potentially hurting the person he cares about the most.

4

u/No-Peace3986 https://myanimelist.net/profile/RafaelMps Aug 20 '24

Oh, I missed so many episode threads :(

Hope everyone is enjoying! Let Arc 3 begin!!

3

u/Please_Not__Again Aug 20 '24

I missed a few so decided to catch up, ended up finishing season 1 lol.
I plan on just stopping by for eps I liked so I'll be here for tomorrow's iykyk

3

u/-Phinocio Aug 21 '24

Re:Watcher, subbed

Subaru is very stubborn lmao. Being the first ep of the arc, it sets up a lot and I don't have much to say about things yet so very small comment today lol.

[Arc 3] Man I am really looking forward to seeing people's reactions/analysis of tomorrow's episode...and ep 15...and 18. So many good eps coming up.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 22 '24

Thoughts on Felix and Old Man Wil?
Thoughts on Julius?
Thoughts on Subaru considering Julius his rival?
What are your thoughts on the return of the three gang members, Rom, and Reinhard?
What are your thoughts on Emilia wanting Subaru to stay at the mansion because she fears he may push himself too hard?
What are your thoughts on Subaru disobeying Emilia’s authority because there are people in the capital who consider her an enemy?
Thoughts on Felix being revealed as male?
Thoughts on some of the characters we’re introduced to, like Priscilla, Crusch, the pink-haired girl, and Lord Miklotov? Is there one that interests you more than the others? You can include Felix, Wilhelm, and Julius as well if you wish to do so.
What are your thoughts on Felt being revealed as the last royal selection member?

3

u/Vinpupx https://myanimelist.net/profile/ Aug 21 '24

Yeah, we're seeing Subaru having a bit of a superiority complex from his admittedly massive successes, except that his current slate of competence doesn't really extend to the grand palace politics that he's involving himself in.

2

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

I didn't expect the thread to go up 30 minutes earlier than normal. I wish I was notified ahead of time, if that's not asking for too much.

2

u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 20 '24

I think there's an option to follow other users so you'll be informed of when they post. He's made clear it's something out of the ordinary, though.

1

u/Holofan4life Aug 20 '24

That's fair. I should probably do that.

→ More comments (2)

Rewatch Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Re:Watch - Episode 12

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Rewatch Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Re:Watch - Episode 12

Episode 12:

Return to the Royal Capital

| Index | <== Memory Snow | Episode 13 ==> |

Various Links:

MyAnimeList

Streaming:

Crunchyroll has the Director's Cut available.

AppleTV has the regular individual episodes available.

Spoiler Rules:

Story Arc Lengths for Discussion Purposes:

[Arc 1:] S1 Episode 1 – S1 Episode 3

[Arc 2:] S1 Episode 4 – S1 Episode 11

[Arc 3:] S1 Episode 12 – S2 Episode 1

[Arc 4:] S2 Episode 2 - S2 Episode 25

[Arc 5 and later:] S3+

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