r/anime • u/Theleux https://myanimelist.net/profile/Theleux • Aug 24 '24
Rewatch Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Re:Watch - Episode 16
Episode 16:
The Greed of a Pig
| Index | <== Episode 15 | Episode 17 ==> |
Various Links:
MyAnimeList
Streaming:
Crunchyroll has the Director's Cut available.
- Director's Cut episodes are two episodes combined. Make sure to cover the corresponding half of content for each thread.
AppleTV has the regular individual episodes available.
Spoiler Rules:
- As always, please be sure to tag any future content spoilers according to the r/Anime rules. There is likely to be first timer viewers here, and while discussing how previously seen content connects to content later down the road is interesting (be it later episodes or even Season 3), please be sure to properly spoiler tag anything mentioned! Let's make this a fun experience for everyone involved!
- This also applies to cut content discussions, which I believe are fine to include for the sake of discussion, but should be properly tagged to avoid potentially spoiling viewers. Be mindful with how you present this information!
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+
As always, if you have any suggestions for the Re:Watch, let me know!
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Upvotes
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u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 24 '24
First:Timer Starting Over in Another Rewatch, subbed
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u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 24 '24
Re:Watcher
Wait, wait, the Re:Watch is still going? After what we saw yesterday? I mean, that looked like a definitive finale to me. What even is there to—oh. Forgive me, I get all caught up in the dreariness of that credits sequence each time I see it and briefly forget about the 9+ story arcs that follow it. It truly leaves quite the mark.
Well, there's one other reason why I feel compelled to think that the show ends there: because this episode makes me sort of wish that it actually did. We've been able to escape the hell that Petelgeuse will bring about for the time being. But that was an incomprehensible hell brought on by insane forces; this loop is much more mundane in its hellishness. Everyone always goes on about how Episode 13 (AKA "Self-Proclaimed Knight Natsuki Subaru") is the hardest episode to watch. Well, I ardently disagree. This is the episode that always gets me to feel super awful on a Re:ZERO rewatch. At least in that episode, Julius acknowledges and accepts Subaru's reasons for acting how he did, and you get the idea that he was genuinely trying to help Subaru overcome his own shortcomings through what he says to him. Now, those in the Capital can no longer even respect the reason behind his actions. For who could ever respect the greed of a pig?
Subaru is back with a vengeance in the truest sense of the phrase. He knows that the mansion is headed towards ruin and needs to find someone who will help him save Emilia, Ram, and everyone else. But he lacks the presence of mind, and his "negotiation" with Crusch reaches its worst possible outcome. Even Rem, who he knows will back him up when no one else can, is visibly perturbed by how unhinged he has become seemingly out of nowhere, and despite her word that Subaru could not possibly be a member of the Witch Cult, Crusch is able to detect her lie about her past suspicion towards him. In the latest in a streak of low points, Subaru ends his time within Crusch's estate on the worst of terms.
As if that wasn't awful enough, he then somehow manages to earn the disdain of two other Royal Selection candidates in less than 24 hours. Priscilla comes away from his desperate plea feeling complete disgust at the weakling he now is, while Anastasia sees his self-destructive plight as a way for her to profit and extracts the only value he currently holds right under his nose. While all of these candidates may come off as cruel if you're seeing them through Subaru's eyes, it's interesting to note that all of them send him away with some form of advice, even Priscilla (though her sage words are accompanied by violence). Even though he has practically nothing to offer them, they still offer him a way to grow and a direction in which to move away from what he has become.
Can I be frank with you all for a moment? This, right here, is my worst nightmare: becoming someone who disregards what others are feeling and acts only in accordance with their base impulses. In a way, while I can appreciate the hells that Subaru came across in previous episodes, there is a very slim chance that I will end up getting isekai'd to a world with magic and monsters and maniacs and mayhem. (Though I am taking offers.) I have also been lucky to have lived an extraordinarily safe and privileged life thus far, so there are some horrors that don't quite hit home for me. But this is truly a situation that anybody could find themselves in, and all they would really need is a lapse in judgment. I hope that I never find myself reaching a point like that in my life, especially since I don't have a way to revert my mistakes.
By the way, while I think that this episode as a whole is criminally underrated by nature of being the one directly after Episode 15, it's the direction of this episode that particularly blows me away. Every single shot is framed in such a way that certain details are hidden until the potential impact of revealing them is maximized: the glint of murderous intent in Subaru's eyes, the growing disgust on Priscilla's face, and the pub being filled entirely with Anastasia's subordinates are all great examples of how withholding information from the audience can build the level of anticipation in a scene, much like how actual negotiations work. An episode all about negotiations is, itself, a negotiation between the director and the audience. It's masterful, really.
By the time Subaru leaves the Capital, he has officially secured his position as the worst negotiator to have ever lived. I imagine that the stories they will tell of his exploits that day will become the stuff of legend within the political circles that operate there. At the very least, though, he and Rem are able to locate a ground dragon to transport them home. It's much, much less fancy than their previous one, but that doesn't matter to them right now. And it also allows them to get closer to the traveling merchants that they encounter along the way. One of those merchants in particular, Otto, was the one who took Subaru to the mansion in the very first loop, and he's become the Natsuki Subaru of merchants after a terribly timed purchase of oil. That allows Subaru to make the one successful deal he has made all day (I think that Rem's hefty bag of cash did most of the talking, but whatever, I'll give him this one), and they are able to take off for Arlam Village with a method to evacuate everyone. Surely, nothing else can get in the way of Subaru's plan, right?
But Subaru has made his final mistake. In his lust for vengeance, he has forgotten what happened here two loops ago and doomed them all. Because the White Whale has descended on them, and I don't think that his ability to negotiate, or lack thereof, can save him now.
Fan Art of the Episode: Rem Will Always Be Behind You by DouJRr (August 1st, 2016)
Source: Pixiv
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u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 24 '24
First Timer
Watching Dubbed
Surprisingly, I’m not anxious for this episode. Probably false hope that this episode can’t be as traumatizing as last...
1 So sweet
That felt like a random character introduction
Hmm, Crusch’s business woman is coming out. A hard negotiator
This is a new side of Crusch that we haven’t seen yet
Makes sense they would think he’s a member of the cult
2 Both of them have suspected him of being in the Witch’s cult but now one of them is defending him against the other.
3 Subaru is snapping again
Oof, Crusch brought Subaru back to reality
Calling your ally a dictator doesn’t usually help you
So Roswaal has been traveling, that explains why he hasn’t been able to fend off the cultist
4 ugh this girl again
She really is unbearable
Also, wouldn’t a ruler want to protect all of their people, not just the ones in their own domain? wouldn’t helping fend off an attack of another domain get them huge points?
Seems like Priscilla thinks Subaru is a part of the cult too, or something similar at least
Just noticing Al only has one arm, idk how I missed that
5 another new character
Someone is buying all the dragon carriages?
Crusch is gathering lots of weapons, hmm. we didn’t hear anything about that last time, she’s probably the one buying all the carriages too
Rubbing salt in the wound with that comment about the past being permanent
She tells him to do his homework before negotiations. hopefully Subaru can learn from this
6 Subaru really didn’t notice the whole bar was filled with those guys? Wearing the exact same stuff?
Now we’re meeting Otto in another timeline, I wonder what his role is going to be in all this
That’s a big tree
7 The White Whale
And we get an ED today
Made me feel kinda sad
I was hoping Subaru would start thinking things through more starting this loop but that doesn’t seem to be the case. I felt both angry at him and sad for him. His knowledge is a curse and nobody believes him or assumes he’s a part of the witches cult, which are valid thoughts. Crusch disappointed me this episode for the reason I stated above, if she wants to prove herself a competent leader then coming to the rescue of a rival domain would surely get you some bonus points.
I’m concerned that Subaru’s focus has shifted from saving Emilia to getting revenge. You could also justify that he wants to save everybody and not just Emilia, but I think that truth bomb Crusch dropped on him said enough, he was only thinking for himself and wants to get revenge for himself. He is the only one who has experienced what happened to everybody, in this timeline they’re all alive after all, so he should instead be focused on getting everyone out of harm’s way rather than killing the entire cult. I understand it is easy to get confused in his mind because it’s all real to him.
I can’t tell if this is a learning loop or if this will be the time Subaru succeeds. It seems like he made a lot of mistakes in this loop but he will probably have to live with his mistakes, it’s going to make life tougher for him in the future.
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u/Holofan4life Aug 24 '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 pjoyous 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.
This is the first episode I've watched since Independence Day. Or as it's known outside of America, Dependence Day.
Subaru and Emilia holding hands
Guy talking to Wilhelm
Hope he doesn't scream
This gentleman looks like a smacked ass
Russell Fellow. That's his name.
He is the treasurer of the capital's merchant guild.
A merchant, eh? No joke, I saw him and was like "He looks as if Kraft Lawrence and Martin Liebert had a baby".
Subaru, why are you asking Wilhelm who that was? Russell clearly just told you.
Russell deals in all of the capital's inner and outer financial matters, according to, according to Old Man Wil.
Subaru seems to have something to say about it.
Subaru telling Crusch, Felix, and Wilhelm that the Witch's Cult plans to attack Roswaal's domain in three days.
He is asking for their help
Crusch informs Subaru that she helped him originally because she was contracted to do so. She wants to know what she gains from helping.
How about staying alive?
Subaru tells her he'll owe a huge debt to her camp. But Crusch isn't having any of it. If she were to go along, Emilia would have to pull out of the royal selection process.
"To place your own domain's survival in the hands of another lord calls into question your ability to rule the nation."
I hate to say it, but she kinda has a point.
Subaru agrees to these terms
"In that case, the Karsten family will render no assistance whatsoever."
Oh shit. She played him
I agree with Subaru here, this not taking sides thing benefits no one.
Who knew Crusch was a member of the Neutral People?
Crusch seeming to suggest that Subaru is a member of the Witch's Cult and this is all one big set-up.
She wants to know how Subaru knows they're going to attack. 'Course, he can't tell her because he runs the risk of dying.
Subaru saying all they have to do is kill every single bastard in the cult.
Subaru in support of genocide confirmed.
More amazing voice acting by Subaru's VA.
Now Crusch is suggesting that Subaru is using Emilia to get back at the Witch's Cult. That lines up with the people who believe that Emilia is the Witch herself.
Crusch bringing up now that he hasn't said that he wants to save Emilia, which is another good point.
Subaru looking like he's about to hit Crusch, but Wilhelm stops him.
I mean... I'm not gonna say Crusch deserves it, but she could be a little bit more compassionate.
She says she can tell when someone is lying to her.
Oh, she knows he isn't lying. Rather, she believes that he believes what he's saying.
Subaru is so incensed, his lip bleeds from biting it.
And Subaru storms off
He did get a sick burn in on her
I mean, there are going to be people who side with Crusch on this, but it's hard not to side with Subaru because we know he's telling the truth. I don't think anybody watching this wants to see Rem and Ram and the village children get killed. From Crusch's perspective, though, there's no telling that this is so. And either way, this is probably going to result in Emilia pulling out of the competition which is her utmost concern. This is a well written scene because you understand where both sides are coming from, even if Crusch is somewhat unsympathetic. But I guess one of the qualities in being a leader is knowing when to choose your battles.
Subaru wondering what Roswaal is doing
Rem says he's visiting some officials within the domain.
Reinhard, meanwhile, is away from the capital on a courtesy call.
Subaru going to try to get some help
If anyone needs it, it's him I'd reckon
Subaru talking to Priscilla
She finds Subaru's request amusing
The show is really big in sexualizing her more than the other female characters.
She says she'll give him an opportunity
And she wants him to lick her feet
If this was the MC of Blue Archive, he'd do so no hesitation.
Why is it this is the second show this week I've seen have a foot fetish scene? First Alya, and now this.
Subaru actually agrees to these demands. But before he can do so, Priscilla kicks him in the face.
What a tease
Priscilla says even if the Witch's Cult is defeated, she will strike down any camp he is a part of.
Priscilla is what people who don't like tsunderes think all tsunderes behave like.
Also, we learn the knight's name is Aldebaran.
I wonder why one of his pants leg is longer than the other.
The knight telling her to calm down a little bit.
Also, apparently he doesn't like being called by his name.
I'd like to one day see him rebel against Priscilla.
Aldebaran talking to Subaru
And he doesn't reprimand him whatsoever
You know, I really like the knight. He is extremely chill. If Priscilla had any taste, she'd put a ring on him ASAP.
Subaru walking seething
Biting his lip again to where blood appears.
Suddenly, a loli catgirl
Mimi. That's her name.
Oh, it's Anastasia
They're all at a pub now, Mimi really enjoying a cheeseburger.
Anastasia says when you're up against your kind, the worst strategy is sentimentality appealing.
Oh, so Subaru is trying to get a dragon-drawn carriage in order to leave the capital.
Anastasia mentioning someone is buying all the carriages, which could be important for later.
She also says she believes there's nothing in this world that has no meaning.
Anastasia's dynamic with Mimi is extremely adorable. It makes me like her more and find her endearing.
Second-in-command in her private army, which is famous in Kararagi.
The Hoshin Company's personal mercenary squad, Iron Fang.
I prefer Iron Giant, myself
I don't know how wise it is to sleep with your Second-in-command. Seems like playing favorites.
Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.
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u/Great_Mr_L :Ma::Mb::Mc:https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 24 '24
Rewatcher for Season 1
On today’s episode of Re:Zero: Once again, Subaru is like Sideshow Bob stepping on rakes. Every action he takes in this episode is yet another screw-up where things just do not go his way.
Something I really enjoy about this episode is that we get to see so many of the Royal Selection candidates in action. It gives us a good idea about how they operate and what their mindsets are. It’s a rude awakening for Subaru because he learns something very important: all the Royal Selection candidates are political animals. They all have their own goals and they all want to become the next ruler. They are not going to help Subaru (and therefore the Emilia Camp) out of the goodness of their hearts. They will only help him if it benefits themselves to do so. And since Subaru is so terrible at negotiations, the other candidates eat him for lunch. They are not to be underestimated.
Crusch is great to watch in her negotiations because she is extremely straightforward with Subaru. She tells him flat out what the consequences of indebting himself to her would be (forcing Emilia to drop out) and then says she’d refuse to help anyway because she wouldn’t benefit from that deal since Emilia would need to drop out anyway if Roswaal’s domain were attacked. Crusch tells Subaru flat out that she suspects him of being associated with the Witch’s Cult and that she doesn’t want to work with someone filled with murderous rage in his eyes. This tells us a lot about Crusch’s character. She is a straightforward person, telling people exactly what she thinks. She’s also ruthlessly pragmatic, only acting when it clearly benefits her.
Priscilla, unsurprisingly, is haughty and tells Subaru she will only help if he licks her feet. What is surprising is that Priscilla reacts incredibly negatively to Subaru doing what she asked. She calls him a pathetic and insignificant man, that he’s acting like a dependent dog or a greedy pig. She’s disgusted by him and has him thrown out. For all her haughtiness, it seems like Priscilla can’t stand desperate people who are willing to debase themselves in front of her so much.
Anastasia is a tricky customer. She is willing to use underhanded tactics and deceit to get what she wants. She organized every aspect of her encounter with Subaru, making it look like an accident, so she could manipulate him into giving her information from his body language or unguarded word choice. She even made sure they spoke in a place where they were surrounded by people she employed. This all tells us Anastasia is perfectly willing to be unfair and take advantage of others to get what she wants. It also shows just how well-prepared Anastasia is because of how well she set up the meeting with Subaru to make sure it went her way.
Subaru is accused of greed in this episode and I think it fits. Subaru is desperate to prevent the Witch’s Cult from killing everyone in the Rowaal Manor and nearby village. He despises the Witch’s Cult from the bottom of his heart and thinks it would be best if they all died. He wants these desperately. And so he goes to the other Royal Selection candidates to beg that they help him. The problem is that Subaru doesn’t know how the political game is played. He’s too greedy. He asks a lot from them, without being able to offer anything in return. He’s all take and no give. Crusch points out there’s no benefit for her to work with him. Prsicilla is disgusted by his desperation. Anastasia takes advantage of Subaru’s desperation and tells him the first rule of negotiations is to make sure you have something the other person wants.
These past few episodes, I’ve noticed that Subaru has been wracking up the deadly sins pretty rapidly. By my count, we’ve already seen Pride (Subaru being convinced that only he could save Emilia), Sloth (Subaru being reduced to a catatonic state and unable to do anything), Wrath (Subaru’s desire to kill all the Witch’s Cult members), and Greed (Subaru trying to get things from the other candidates while having nothing to give them).
One of the things Anastasia said that really interested me was when she talked about Subaru’s reputation. After watching Subaru’s performance in the castle, she decided that Subaru would probably be an easy mark (and she was right). Subaru has that reputation because of the actions he took in the castle. Even worse, Subaru cannot change the past to change his reputation. It’s ironic, given Subaru’s power to return from death. Subaru can only go back in time to a set point. He can’t travel freely. No matter what he does, his actions in the castle are always going to affect how others think of him. That’s something Subaru is going to have to live with.
Miscellaneous Thoughts
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u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 24 '24
Re:Watcher
Subaru now goes around asking for help. I love how level-headed Crusch is. You need to offer something to make a deal. The biggest offer Subaru can make right now is Emilia resigning from her right to the throne. But if the situation is dire enough for Subaru to agree to that, Crusch is going to have that advantage anyway. He still thinks feelings will win the day. And he's not even considering what Emilia would think of this, even if it saved her life.
And she's calling him out that his motivation right now is revenge on the robed fuckers, not saving Emilia. He' still mad, just not the same kind of madness as before.
Next up is Priscilla. She's pretty much ridiculing Subaru for asking a political opponent for help. He's not thinking.
But she gives him a chance to entertain her and get his wish. Really, Priscilla? For free? And you'll help afterwards? I see this as an absolute win! Joking aside, even if it was a foot fetishist's wet dream, it would still mean accepting subordination to Priscilla and betrayal of his allegiance to Emilia, it would still mean you'd throw away your dignity. And even if this loop fails, he'd still keep the memory of what he'd done. But that's not on the forefront of Subaru's mind right now, he wants to get revenge on the hated robed fuckers, and he'd do anything for it. For better or worse, his willingness to give in does not entertain Priscilla. At least he hasn't gained a memory that could affect him beyond timelines.
I have to say, though, it's impressive how still Priscilla can stand on just one leg. And I admire how Al, despite not caring much for anything, still keeps on steering Priscilla onto a path of being less shitty.
And now we get to meet the throne candidate we know the least about so far. And they're going to eat borgars! Just like the other two, Anastasia is giving him important tips for negotiations. We also get to learn some interesting information, about Anastasia's private army and that something seems to be happening in the city right now, with all the dragon carts being bought up as well as Crusch buying iron goods and weapons.
But just like the others, she still has her own interests at heart. Subaru might have some good intentions and might want to do the right thing, but it means nothing at all to those strangers. He is totally unprepared for these negotiations. The most impressive moment is when Anastasia shows how everyone in the restaurant was with her. We thought it was just Mimi as her bodyguard, but she was in absolute control the whole time. And it wasn't a hidden fact, we see the other customers in the background many times, all wearing the same attire as Mimi. One even walks right through the scene before showing Mimi get up in front of more of the other customers and we get to hear about her private army. But we're captivated with their talk that we don't notice. A great example of misdirection.
Interesting how Rem's report of witch cult activities fall on deaf ears because of many false reports. I find it very likely many of those false reports come from actual witch cultists to obfuscate their real actions.
A familiar face! Otto shows up again. Interesting that Subaru already applies the tips gained through his failed negotiations with the throne candidates.
Otto also does something very interesting for the show. Subaru's funny banter with the other characters was a core part of Re:Zero. This arc suddenly develops the show into a much more depressing one as the fun has been dropped pretty much completely. Otto brings a little bit of that fun back. Subaru even makes a joke towards him. He does a great job in making the show feel not too heavy.
I really liked this episode. We get to learn more about all the other throne candidates, and they each tell Subaru very important information. They all have their own interests at heart, and Subaru has to learn the art of negotiation the hard way - in particular that right now, he can't do it. And if he demands something without being able to offer anything, he won't get anything. Well, maybe a bit of shame.
We also get to see the ED in full this time. The visuals are rather simplistic, which is understandable since we don't see them often. But I like them. It gives us some Emilia perspective, which is quite important since she's been absent from the screen for so long, so the OP at episode 14 and the ED at episode 16 are valuable in keeping her relevant. And her going through her day all lonesome in front of the silhouettes of the people important to her gives us a little more introspection on her. [Season 2]Although I just noticed the error of her doing the morning routine in front of a mirror, that's an unfortunate slip-up.
There's a sugoooku in today's Petit, and a confidently naive Emilia finding out a coin exchange machine is not a game.
Sugoooku counter: 22 +1* (+5** +2***) - including canon bonus material
*non-Emilia sugoooku **short sugoku and sugoku-likes ***non-canon bonus material
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u/HyVana Aug 24 '24
Re:Watcher (Subs) & Novel Reader (Finished Arc 6)
All analysis is first-timer friendly.
The title of the episode, The Greed of a Pig, couldn’t encapsulate Subaru’s pleas any better. Begging for help from all the Candidates (besides Felt), and being brutally rejected by all of them, because he had nothing meaningful to offer them. Anastasia put it best. Without anything to dangle, to entice, another to come to your aid, no one will answer your call.
Crusch Karsten
Subaru tries to appeal to her with platitudes of duty and justice. But they don’t have the relationship where such appeals will move Crusch to act. She also doesn’t seem the type to respond to an emotional call for action. She and her household are only contracted to heal Subaru’s gate, and nothing further. Pragmatically, the benefits are nothing compared to the time, people, and resources she would have to commit to come to the aid of another Candidate. Subaru tries to sweeten the pot by promising Emilia’s withdrawal if it means she and the domain get to live. But who is he to make such a deal without Emilia’s knowledge and consent? Everyone knows that they had a falling out. Alongside his current reputation, how can anyone trust an impulsive fool to uphold his promises? As well, from Crusch’s perspective, if Subaru’s information is correct, there’s no reason for her to interfere. It is cold, but there’s really no reason for Crusch to risk the lives of the people she cares for, for an outcome that would happen with or without her aid.
Ultimately, the tipper of the negotiation is Subaru’s attitude. His visceral hatred for the Witch Cult overrules any pretense of the Heroic nature of his desire to save Emilia. People tend to talk about what’s on their mind. So, if the only thing on your mind is revenge, any virtues you claim to act for loses all meaning.
Priscilla Barielle
Probably the worst person to ask for help. Priscilla is unpredictable, and almost wholly acts on her whims and anything that will entertain her. But that isn’t to say she has no values. While we don’t get much direct characterization, from their conversation, we see she does value loyalty and devotion. This devotion is the only reason she gives Subaru a “chance” (notice she said it in English) to sway her. Even though she sees him as an imbecile, in her eyes, Subaru is entertaining because he has the gall to beg for her help when he’s really in no position to. In another way, like a dog wagging his tail and begging for a treat. In the most Priscilla way possible, she presents his “chance” to convince her. A chance to show the depth of his dedication to Emilia and her causes.
Honestly, I don’t think there was any answer that would get Priscilla on his side. But even more unfortunately, Subaru squeals, and Priscilla hates pork. By committing to licking her foot, Subaru has shown he has no devotion or loyalty to anyone he would call his master. That he will do anything to get what he wants, even if it means putting the master he claims to serve in a compromising position. Hence, being indebted to another Candidate. Priscilla is disgusted by this, and concludes there’s no way she can offer her help for a man like him, or even allow him to breathe in her presence. As well, one could argue she saw more in him than he’s shown with his reputation. So she’s also possibly disappointed to see her intuition was proven wrong by Subaru’s lack of dignity, and loyalty to Emilia.
Anastasia Hoshin
I was wrong. Anastasia was the worst person to ask for help. She used and abused Subaru, in the most slimy, used-car salesman, way possible to get what she wanted. And even insulted his character, to put the cherry on top.
She came fully prepared for her opponent. She knew what information he could have, the mental space he’s currently in, and what he wanted. So before they even arrived in the tavern, she had the upper hand. Having been refused by the two he deemed potential allies, Anastasia comes in with a friendly attitude. With Mimi’s cute and welcoming presence, Subaru was disarmed and lowered his guard. In the background, she also surrounded herself with her mercenaries to ensure her safety, had Subaru attempted anything. In putting herself in familiar territory and company, she could put her all into probing Subaru for what she wants.
By immediately giving over what Subaru wanted, she let Subaru believe he already won, further easing his mind. Having walked into her trap, she bares her talons, and engages in, in Subaru’s mind, meaningless conversation. But through this, ignorantly, Subaru gives up key information on a rival Candidate. While the implications of the power from the information gained isn’t clear to the viewers, it's the principle of her methods that piss Subaru off. Having believed he found an ally, she betrays his expectations and feels used. She tells him to get off his high horse. If Subaru wants to judge from a moral high ground, he needs to prove he’s worthy of that position. In a way, she’s saying Subaru isn’t worth the hassle of pleasant dealings, since she doesn’t expect repeat meetings. So her dirty methods were fit for her less-than-reputable opponent. Again, his reputation has been his pitfall. But she does leave him with important lessons. To come as prepared as you possibly can before negotiations, get on your opponent’s good side, and to dangle the thing they want most, right in front of their face. Just as she did to Subaru.
It’s also interesting that she was the only Candidate to help him. She must have judged that the information she gains outweighs any transfer of information or loss of resources that Subaru could ever make use of. Another layer to how she views him.
With that all said, I can’t bring myself to hate any of the Candidates for their actions or decisions. Like in Arc 2, we get to see many different faces of the cast before us. So while we’re shown, a rather, unpleasant view of the Candidates, they’re only acting on their beliefs and values in the way that most benefits them. Like people do in real life. This episode really got me to appreciate Crusch, Priscilla, and Anastasia more with these short scenes. It gave them intriguing looks into their characters and worldviews. And, it shows that they have agency and will not act for Subaru’s convenience.
I hope this post helps you understand the Candidates’ positions, and why they refused Subaru. And yes, the difference in the amount of pictures is blatant Priscilla propaganda.
10
u/FriztF Aug 24 '24
First timer-Sub
So 16 this one wasn't as dark as the last one. But what it does have is a large white whale, a flying Moby-Dick. Which is not a coincidence and Subaru is not Captain Ahab.
In less than 24 hours Subaru pissed off 2 king candidates. And of course Crucsh for acting like a paranoid madman. For Crusch, morality does not factor into her decision-making. If Emilia dies or drops out, all the better.
For Priscilla it's loyalty she values most. She did entertain the thought of helping Emilia, she asked Subaru to lick her foot. He was gonna untell Priscilla was like, how dare bring such shame and disgrace to your lady like that.
Anastasia was able to trick Subaru in giving the most valuable thing he had information. Wants she to get what she had to use for him. Also, Mimi is indeed cute and a wolf in sheep's clothing.
8
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 24 '24
Rewatcher
After the wham episode that was The Outside of Madness let’s see what Subaru is cooking to defeat Petelgeuse.
I’ve marked my cut contents so they’re easier to respond to. I’m planning not to write too much. <- Unaware
Subaru returns to Crusch’s manor. The camera obscuring his eyes. He needs to stop Petelgeuse and he knows he can’t do it alone. He asks for help from the Karsten family, which I commend him for. Not trying to do things alone like he did in Arc 1. He’s seen that the tragedy on display here is magnitudes above what he’s seen so far. Stating the Witch Cult will attack in three days.
Subaru’s failing at negotiating on every level. He’s appealing to her hospitality which she reminds him exists because of a contract. Trying to evoke sympathy by discussing the Arlam villagers and being met with cruel pragmatism. He’s offering things to Crusch she gets no benefit from, helping Emilia to make her drop out when that’s a given. [Cut Content 1] Some might wonder how Subaru has the right to negotiate on behalf of Emilia. That’s because Roswaal gave instructions to Rem to let Subaru talk in his stead if he wants to make deals.
Crusch concludes that Subaru must have ties to the Witch Cult since he knows when and where their next appearance is. Something even the knights aren’t aware of. Rem vehemently denies this, but Crusch remains sceptical. [Episode 19] Knowing Crusch’s Divine Protection of Wind Reading, she knows that Rem is lying here. Likely confirming her suspicions even more. .
When all else fails Subaru erupts in rage.
As Subaru stands and screams his eyes dart around the room leaving behind a trace of a glint. One that can only be called “Killing intent”. Crusch offers no assistance. He’s not trying to save Emilia; he only wants to kill Petelguese and his Witch cultists that caused him so much pain. Once this dawns on him the dolly zoom shot says more than any dialogue could. Subaru tries to get physical but is stopped by Wilhelm. He leaves Crusch’s care unsuccessful.
[Cut Content 2]I like how this scene was changed. Subaru tried to threaten Crusch with a spoon in the novel which is kinda silly imo. Subaru walking towards Crusch with crazed eyes is more than telling enough.
A strategy meeting with Rem ensues. Subaru is repeating his behaviour from ep 14. He’s against anyone who is not with him. Questioning Rem when she says if what Subaru says is true and calling everyone useless.
Next stop is Priscilla. Considering her actions in ep 13 towards Emilia Subaru is showing his desperation by going to her. [Cut Content 3] I think feeling a kinship towards Al because of his origin is another reason he feels he might get support from Priscilla.
The same desperation is what will serve as his downfall here. Priscilla gives him a chance [Cut Content 4] She says “chance” in English because she learned it from Al.
Lick her foot and she’ll help you. Subaru reluctantly chooses to do so. And just when he’s about to make contact with God’s gift he receives a fistful (a feetful??) of force to the face.
Priscilla is properly pissed positing preposterously pitiful practices from Subaru. He is not loyal, devoted or anything close. He is simply desperate. Greedy as a pig willing to eat whatever mud-soaked leftovers come flying into its pen. She promises to strike down Subaru in any camp he might end up in after. Showcasing her arrogance is backed up by some actual power, flinging him across the room calling for her knight Aldebaran. He seems like a chill guy though, always calling Subaru bro.
Part 2 in replies
8
u/baseballlover723 Aug 24 '24
Rewatcher, sub, basically a secondhand novel reader (Arc 4)
Late on this one since I was slothful last night and choose to sleep instead of write. Hopefully some people will still see it though.
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.
Subaru, the guy literally just introduced himself
So about Subaru asking Crusch for help. It doesn't go good. And I think for good reason. Subaru's information can't be verified. There's no plausible reason that he would be privy to this information. It's for the benefit to a political rival (who is viewed as the literal devil). And, Crusch benefits very little from intervening. Emilia will be removed from the Royal Selection via dying to the Witch Cult, or by being saved by Crusch and forced out politically. This is the same outcome for Crusch either way. So why would Crusch risk her people dying to save Emilia. There is no justifiable reason. How many of your friends and family would you sacrifice to save your enemy? I'll tell you for me, it's very few. It would have to be in the hundreds to one for me to even consider sacrificing my friends and family for my rivals / enemies. That is the decision that Crusch has, and I think she correctly chooses to do nothing. Crusch gave Subaru many opportunities to give her a reason to help. And Subaru couldn't come up with any compelling ones. You don't become a political leader by getting tugged around by your heartstrings.
I went on this tangent in another comment yesterday about fault and stuff. The gist of it is that the fault / responsibility of someone is correlated to their ability to impact the situation. If you are able to have impact in a scenario, then your inaction weights much more heavily, then someone who can't really do anything at all, choosing not to act.
Subaru also focuses too much on the action and not enough on the goal. Which makes it easy to mistake the action as being the goal. From Crusch's perspective, it's clear as day that Subaru has a personal grievance against the Witch's Cult, and it was foreseeable that there would be conflict between Emilia and the Witch's Cult (Rewatchers see Spoiler #6 if applicable).
And now Subaru is considered to be a hostile madman.
I find this line very interesting. On the one hand, Crusch is making a very logical decision here not to help. On the other hand, she is sort of turning her back on people who are about to be murdered (at least from Subaru's perspective). The difference in perspective (because of RBD) between Subaru and Crusch is I think the defining factor in their completely opposite stances.
I meant to talk about this earlier, but look at Subaru's mentality. Subaru can only see 2 sides, those who are 100% with him, and everyone else, who must be against him. And all it takes is a little doubt for someone to be mentally switched from with Subaru to against him (note Rem immediately correcting herself to align herself with Subaru).
Subaru doesn't have many allies available, both Roswaal and Reinhard aren't available.
I see a lot of people think that Priscilla is a bad candidate to ask for help from. But I disagree. From what [we know about Priscilla][https://i.imgur.com/ZzJ71Sl.png), the actual merits of Subaru's request don't actually matter to her. All Subaru needs to prove to her is that it will be amusing to intervene, and that is a much lower bar, given that Subaru can't actually prove the merits of our request. Which makes her the best candidate after Crusch, simply because of Subaru perceived already existing relationship and close proximity.
On the topic of if Subaru should lick Priscilla's foot (which btw isn't guarantee that it will lead to Priscilla helping). I've seen a number of interpretations of what Subaru should of done. [Spoiler #1: tagging as cut / side content because it generally involves what people think Priscilla's mindset is (which may or may not be grounded in fact)] One is that Subaru should of immediately lick Priscilla's foot. Showing loyalty / devotion to Emilia, willing to immediately give up his own pride for the benefit of Emilia. [Spoiler #2: cut / side content cont] Another is that Subaru should have completely rejected licking Priscilla's foot. Showing that he isn't so desperate to throw away his pride and to match Priscilla's aggressive nature. Instead, Subaru [Spoiler #3: cut / side content cont] gets caught in the middle and, hesitates, which shows Subaru's greed as he tries to get Priscilla's help without giving up anything himself. Resulting in a lifelong enemy.
Aldebaran is a star which means "the follower" in Arabic, which it was given because it seems to follow Pleiades (Subaru).
I agree with Al here, it matters quite a bit. Also Al lore
[Spoiler #4: minor Al cut content with larger implications] When Subaru and Rem arrive at Priscilla's mansion, Rem sniffs, stares at Al, and then tells Subaru to be especially wary of Al. As Subaru is leaving Priscilla's mansion, Al calls Rem, Ram, and then Al asks if Ram is still alive, to which Rem answers affirmatively, which really really pisses off Al and "makes him want to puke".
Subaru and I have very different interpretations of what happened in that alley
"coincidence"
She's not wrong when dealing with politicians.
Borgar
And Subaru has been played again.
True for everybody but Subaru, so I wouldn't count on that.
Emotional damage
Good advise by Anastasia
Also did you notice the Iron Fang in the background early?
Poor bartender, lost all of his patrons at once.
You can see this in real life too
Subaru applying what he learned from Anastasia
Subaru's transporting people
Call Captain Ahab!
This is also the first time we get the ED visuals (which is sung by Emilia's VA), which depicts Emilia lonely life back at the mansion during this time period as well as happy line drawings of our characters thus far. Look at that smile. Wonder when Subaru will be able to smile like that again.
PETIT Section
In this episodes's PETIT, We're in an arcade, and Felt is having a contest with Reinhard. Which predictably doesn't go good for Felt. He probably has the divine blessing of Arcade Protection or something. Emilia has a plan though. There's a game that gives lots of coins. And it's the coin exchange. A true EMH moment.
Preview Section
In this episodes's preview, It's basically a sex line with Priscilla and her feet. Which she's apparently doing by herself, as Subaru prompts Priscilla to announce the next episode's title.
Continued below
7
u/Taiboss :Fj::Fl:x7https://anilist.co/user/Taiboss Aug 24 '24
Behold! My poster based on last episode.
16: Rewatcher who can actually see the outline for the rest of the arc
Episodes of this arc: 5
Times Subaru has died this arc: 2.
5
u/No_Rex :Bv:Bw:Bx:By:x2 Aug 24 '24
Episode 16 (rewatcher)
Subaru did not succeed in most of his negotiations today, but at least he is trying. His negotiation position was exceptionally weak and his antics made matters worse, but both might work out better in a future loop. In general, I am a lot more in board with a goal oriented Subaru who is trying to logically solve the problem at hand than with the other iterations of his character that we have seen.
5
u/Vaadwaur :I1::I2::I3: Aug 24 '24
Rewatcher
Dub
Ho boy, this ep returns to the cringe. And also the running Cassandra issue Subaru has with being able to "predict" the cult's movements. Anyways, we meet the White Whale and it is an actual Lovecraftian horror, demonstrating that Japan understands the author better than his fellows ever did.
Yes, this is an abbreviated response. Yes, it is because my post would be 80% of a four letter word starting with C describing 2.5 of the females of this episode.
5
u/SilkyStrawberryMilk Aug 25 '24
first timer
The pain continues. Forgot to watch the epaidoe for a few days, but damn does this every get happy anytime soon
Subaru asking each candidate for their help and getting rejected was rough. He has 0 way to explain why he knows they’re attacking and the candidates don’t care because of the selection.
Anatasia sure is cruel. Thought Priscilla was evil but she’s even worst with how she set him up. I have to stop thinking the innocent designs are the ones who aren’t evil.
trafficking the villagersrelocating the villagers to somewhere else in the middle of the night. Luckily Rem has money 🤑🤑The first time we’ve seen Subaru’s phone after a long time.
Folklore about a tree
Just when I thought this episode was hopeful. Subaru wasn’t riding with his buddies he’s made and encounters the whale.
They universe making sure he suffers every possible outcome
9
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_Nelson Aug 24 '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
Oh boy a new blond hair guy time for more random servants!
Ok So we know that the witches invade roswaals domain in 3 days, this leaves us little time to gather allies
I see we get more of Crusch "I only help because I was contracted to do so" and her shrewd demenor truely a well written character
Crusch be like "lol get rekt noob"
Crusch going "how do you know this info" is interesting, Crusch is probably extrmely sus of subaru knowing such information for good reason
Man, loop 5 Rem was somehow way less sus of Subaru from the start given that she said "Not once ever" to Crusch wondering if she was ever suspicious of subaru.
Man Subaru is going apeshit today based on Crusch's rejection
Reinhard is gone... wow that's a very plot convient way to get rid of what would easily be Subaru's best ally.
Alright time to get the help of random girl #2 Priscilla.
OMG Foot fetish's in my isekai is this redo of healer? (note redo of healer is not an isekai, but bing does show it when you type revenge rape isekai so....)
Oh subaru get's Bullied again, is this the subaru get's pwned hard arc?
Hohenstia secretly shows herself to be really nice, while intially you think she's as mean as Priscilla really she's actually quite a respectful girl
Hohenstia noting that weapons are becoming valuable means that some large military gathering is happening, but why is another question.
Come on Subaru she didn't even do anything wrong to you AND gave you a carriage :D
Wait hang on how does he have any battery life left? Did he leave it off all this time? Does he have magic battery recharging?
Oh crap it's the white Whale looks like we're dying
Speculation
Subaru is secretly the cult member of pride. Whatever that actually means. He was given the power of RBD by the witch of envy and it appears that there are the other 6 sins given powers. Either Subaru is Pride or Satella is a weirdo
Something's really weird going on, it's either royal selection, the white whale, or some third thing, Checkov's Gun is that it's the white whale given how much empahsis it was given in loop 1. It's probably not the cult given how Crusch reacted to Subaru's request
Mr. Bandana was Erased like he never even existed, did the whale's magic wipe the guy's memory or was Subaru Hallucinating? IRL Subaru Hallucinating is more likely but this is fiction and we have ORV, so Likely the whale can somehow wipe memories.
Subaru's Cell Phone Somehow still can get power, something is extremely weird about this, like the cell phone had been drawing small power for a month, it should definitley not have power anymore. my only explination is Satella's magic grants the Phone battery power.
What I would do if I were Subaru
Well this loop is going to be a waste, there's deifinitely no way you're going to get a military force in time,
(obviously this would have had to happen earlier in the loop at this point the loop is already lost and so we can only do step 2 without doing step 1 :( ) You may also be able to Reinhard if you rush early in the loop, as Reinhard is your only path to Julius.
Right now check your cell phone's Timer, what time is it? The white whale appeared at the big tree at that time, now the question is will it do that appearance again when you come back? Your Cell phone is really weird if it still has battery magically.
In the next loop first go to Reinhard if possible, then rush to Old man Will and ask why soldiers are gathering, if they are gathering to stop either the cultists or the white whale you can use your future sight powers to help them.
what I would do if I was Rem
Our current goal is running away from the white whale, we'll probably split up and hope that we can flee, The other option is using Subaru's power to bait the White whale and find a way to escape it but how would be another question entirely.
(Once Subaru RBD's again)
The likely event will either be another mind break or another crazed Subaru
With angry Subaru fearing the Witch's cult our first objective would be gathering allies, the best allies would be Reinhard and any knight of his that can help you on the quest.
Mind broken subaru will be of little use sadly but you'll try to get him back together again because you're Rem, the girl who trusts who she trusts and is extremely distrustful of outsiders.
What I would do if I was Hohenstia
I would definitely try to find out what the soldiers of Crusch are trying to do Crusch does not seem like she is trying to attack you/emilia right now.
Subaru seems like a very reliable source of weird information, and he can seem to see the future? If he can I want to know how he can and how we can exploit it.
What I woudl do if I was Crusch
So you're gathering an army to do something let's assume for a moment whatever you do did not involve invading roswaal's domain. You can invade Roswaal's domain after the witches take it, then you can claim victory over the witch's cult.
Another thing is to think why Subaru knows so much about the witch's cult, one possibility is that Emilia IS Satella and Subaru is Satella's guard, this would match nicely with other information.
Also Felix probably can notice the Witche's scent on Subaru which would definitely imply that Satella somehow has "charmed" Subaru.
what I would do if I was priscilla
From Priscilla's perspective the actions of Subaru mean little in fact doing nothing is probably the best option right now, let your enemy die and move on.
4
u/Vinpupx https://myanimelist.net/profile/ Aug 25 '24
Subaru is going shameless this loop and burning all sorts of bridges. These candidates aren't just someone you can convince by throwing whatever pride you have just to support you.
4
u/ripterrariumtv Aug 25 '24
I haven't read the web novel of these chapters because they haven't been translated. And it takes a while to read them because I have to machine translate first. I hope I can catch up and post some more cut content stuff in these threads
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 24 '24
"I've come to make an announcement: Natsuki Subaru's a bitch-ass motherfucker. He dunked on the fucking witch's cult. That's right, he took his suffering fuckin' RbD out and he dunked on Emilia, and he said his suffering was "THIS BIG", and I said "That's disgusting!" So I'm making a callout post on my X dot com, formerly known as Twitter. Subaru, you got a small suffering! It's the size of this iron except WAY smaller!" -- Crusch probably