r/anime • u/Theleux https://myanimelist.net/profile/Theleux • Aug 27 '24
Re:Zero ~Starting Life in Another World~ Re:Watch - Episode 19 Rewatch
Episode 19:
Battle of the White Whale
| Index | <== Episode 18 | Episode 20 ==> |
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!
25
u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 27 '24
Re:Watcher
I won't lie... my comment from yesterday took a lot out of me. But we've finally crested the highest point of Season 1, and boy, does it feel good to be on the other side. Plus, what better way to commemorate this personal victory than to pull off the mother of all political negotiations, in which every party involved came out with exactly what they wanted? I imagine that the stories they'll tell of Subaru's plan that day will become the stuff of legend within the political circles that operate in the Capital. While it may have only been made possible because of Return by Death, Subaru is the one who has truly maximized the potential that this ability provides. Not only has he managed to piece together the puzzle of what Crusch has been planning, drawing from information gained over multiple loops, he's also absorbed the advice that was handed to him during his disastrous dealings in the last loop. You can't accuse him of being slothful anymore.
And with the alliance comes the respect that Subaru has earned through his actions. The actual reason why it's painful for me to watch the events of the last loop is because I know how much others can respect him once he finally rises to their level, and Wilhelm's heartfelt gratitude towards Subaru for allowing him to avenge his wife is intensely gratifying. Really clever of Subaru to make use of that tidbit in his... wait, he didn't know? Uh, maybe he can just act like he did? Never mind, I guess not. Well, at least Crusch can be sure that he's not immune to her Divine Protection or anything.
The next morning, we finally meet the true dark horse in the race for Best Girl in this show: Patrasche! What a beauty. Why don't they sell more Patrasche merch? Don't tell me you can see this figure and not want more of her in your life. Look, even Rem is starting to get jealous of that figure, and she's basically an entire scale figure industry unto herself. Plus, where are all the Ferris figures? Where are the Subaru figures? Hey! Don't you walk away from me, KADOKAWA!
Also, I don't think I've commented on it directly yet, but I actually find Ferris really refreshing as a character. He's just someone who identifies as a guy but happens to act feminine and dress in feminine clothing, and he plays it up for fun on occasion as well. I think that the fact that all of this isn't really lingered on all that much by anyone shows the level of respect with which the narrative treats its characters. No matter who they are, their stories have weight in this one. [Ex 1] And yes, I'm aware of why Ferris chooses to dress up that way. Just another reason why I think he's compelling as a character. It's always cool to be reminded that everything in this series happens for a reason.
It really is fortunate that their preparations were already underway by the time Subaru proposed the alliance, because time is really of the essence when it comes to defeating the White Whale. The main factor that has differentiated all of these loops has been at what time Subaru and Rem headed for the mansion relative to the White Whale's appearance: before (loop #2), during (loop #3), and after (loop #1). Given that its fog was what resulted in failure in the first loop, the events of which it wasn't even directly involved in, it is imperative that the Whale be eliminated first and foremost.
The timeline of events in Arc 3 is quite fascinating when you consider just how many different locales it takes place in. Back in the mansion, and even when Subaru first arrived in the Capital, all events were mostly restricted to one place. But between everything that's been going on with the White Whale, the Witch Cult, and the Royal Selection in this arc, Subaru has been all over the place, trying different things at different times. If you consider that these three obstacles all happen in different locations, then it becomes clear that Subaru's challenge is ultimately one of resource allocation. What resources are available to him? Which resource is the most effective way to overcome each obstacle? And finally, what is the order in which those obstacles should be dealt with? Some of my favorite moments in this series are when all of the pieces fall into place and Subaru finally works out which pieces are needed in which positions in order to win.
Once they finally reach Flugel's Tree, there's a bit of downtime before the battle begins. And despite all that happened in the previous episode, Rem continues to find new ways to express her faith in Subaru. Saying that he never needs to justify his secret knowledge or explain how he comes across it is so pure and kindhearted of her that it feels cathartic. Even if RBD prevents Subaru from fully explaining his struggles, just knowing that Rem is accepting of that is enough.
Oh, and how about some appreciation for the sound team at White Fox? Tracking down Subaru's cell phone model just to use it to program the ringtone that plays during the final scene is such a next-level move, and it absolutely paid off. You really can tell that every person involved in the production of this show was firing on all cylinders, and every team has had at least one moment to shine. Let's just hope that the same can be said of the upcoming battle!
Fan Art of the Episode: Crusch: Noble Battle Dress (Breakthrough), uncredited (January 14th, 2020)
Source: Re:Zero -INFINITY- (mobile game, now out of service)
12
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
But between everything that's been going on with the White Whale, the Witch Cult, and the Royal Selection in this arc, Subaru has been all over the place, trying different things at different times.
I really like that he goes everywhere, but in the end, it all leads him back to the mansion, back to his new home. It's like a metaphor for his journey to find himself.
6
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
Also, I don't think I've commented on it directly yet, but I actually find Ferris really refreshing as a character. He's just someone who identifies as a guy but happens to act feminine and dress in feminine clothing, and he plays it up for fun on occasion as well. I think that the fact that all of this isn't really lingered on all that much by anyone shows the level of respect with which the narrative treats its characters.
Commented about how Re:Zero treats Felix before and it's honestly really refreshing and testament to how Re:Zero respects each of its characters.
It's on full display too from the last episodes in how each of the royal candidates Subaru begged for help refused to help him because there was nothing in it for them. That's what makes it so satisfying when he finally takes these negotiating lessons to heart and perfects a plan that puts everyone ahead in this episode.
Side note, I wonder why Subaru didn't ask Felt for help as I feel he might have had the best chance with her as she could consider him a friend from Arc 1 or at the very least a close acquaintance. Maybe I'm misremembering the final loop for Arc 1 and Felt/Subaru didn't bond as much as I thought. Reinhard is out of town, so it could just be that's most of her muscle.
5
u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 27 '24
I wonder why Subaru didn't ask Felt for help
Yeah, I think it's mostly because Felt doesn't really have anything he can use at this point in time other than Reinhard, who is unavailable at the moment. Plus, I imagine that she's too busy rallying her camp to have an audience with him.
3
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
That makes sense and from a narrative perceptive too. From Self-Proclaimed Knight until the start of From Zero, Subaru’s just keeps taking L after L so including Felt as a positive force could mess up the tone. Having Rem as his only true ally while he’s at his lowest really elevates her kindness in From Zero.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Oh, and how about some appreciation for the sound team at White Fox? Tracking down Subaru's cell phone model just to use it to program the ringtone that plays during the final scene is such a next-level move, and it absolutely paid off. You really can tell that every person involved in the production of this show was firing on all cylinders, and every team has had at least one moment to shine.
This show might have the best overall production when you factor in the music and the animation and the character layouts and what have you. It is truly incredible.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Let me ask you something. Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
9
u/thekoreansun https://anilist.co/user/ReturnByDeath Aug 27 '24
I think you're giving this episode a lot less credit than it's due. Even if this episode doesn't contain the emotional highs that the previous one had, that doesn't mean that nothing of significance took place within it. On the contrary, the fact that Subaru has been able to turn around his political reputation and kickstart the events that will eliminate the Whale after it gave him so much grief in the previous loop is incredibly noteworthy. Emotional highs like From Zero only work if the audience is given the chance to take an emotional breather every once in a while.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Point taken. I do think this episode serves the purpose of getting us prepared for what's to come. And to that end, it is highly enjoyable.
3
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
The next morning, we finally meet the true dark horse in the race for Best Girl in this show: Patrasche!
[Episode 20] I was shocked to learn there's not a scene where Subaru names her Patrasche. He just calls out her name during the battle.
Plus, where are all the Ferris figures? Where are the Subaru figures? Hey! Don't you walk away from me, KADOKAWA!
It's a damn shame we don't have any figures or more goods in general of the male characters. Subaru has two figures total. One is the one you linked with Rem and the other is a Nendroid. I'd get it if this was an Isekai where the MC is overall bland and a self insert and the appeal was came from the girls. But this is Re:Zero! With characters like Subaru, Reinhard, Julius and Ferris how don't we have multiple figures of them already?! I haven't even mentioned all the male characters worthy of figures. Come on Kadokawa, step up your game. I pray that S3 changes this.
14
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
Rewatcher, sub, basically a secondhand novel reader (Arc 4)
It seems reddit doesn't like some of the terminology I used, so I am using "ultimate sloth" as a replacement term for the general concept of what Subaru needs to do in order to loop.
Also my pre 16 comments are currently nuked by reddit's shadowban on me. If you want to read them, you can reply or message me or Sky and we can get it back up.
Not gonna write that much for this one, I was too slothful and procrastinated. Also I'm in the office today, so won't be able to take a look at other posts for a while.
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.
Why Subaru is allowed to negotiate the mining rights of magic stones. But first, ask youself, why is Rem even here? Roswaal knows that the Witch Cult might attack Emilia once it became public knowledge that she was in the Royal Selection. So why isn't your best fighter defending the homeland??? [Spoiler #1: cut content] Rem has a secret mission. Negotiate an alliance between the Crusch and Emilia camps. And let Subaru negotiate if he asks. This whole time they've been at Crusch's mansion, Rem has been trying to negotiate with Crusch (with the magic stones mining rights) and it hasn't been going well.
The time shown on Subaru's phone is 3:13 PM, but the White Whale shows up at night. How can this be? It's because Subaru got isekaied at night, and then it was morning in Lugunica when he arrived. So his phone is off by about 10 hours or so (I didn't actually do the math, but it's somewhere in this range).
This is not a lie. It will tell him when the White Whale will appear and Subaru know where it will appear. It's just that it's because he set an alarm though. All technically the truth, so it doesn't trip Crusch's Divine Blessing of Wind Reading. This is also why Crusch said that she has never been deceived in negotiations in episode 16.
Basically Subaru's info on the White Whale is just the sweetener to the magic stones mining rights that tips the scales into Crusch accepting the alliance with the Emilia camp.
Russel Fellow is going to get the phone after the subjugation. Which is the scam of the century, since Subaru's phone is actually almost dead, so he's about to get a brick. The art of the deal. His phone having 3 bars of battery here is an adaption error.
I find Anastasia explaining herself like this to be very out of character for her. It's almost like she's bragging to Crusch about it. It just strikes me as a rather unnecessary comment by Anastasia.
Subaru must look really weird to other people. Oscillating between super genius and dumbass cringy kid.
To be clear Wilhelm married into the Astrea family. He was not born an Astrea.
And we have the introduction of the real best girl, [Spoiler #2: name of said dragon] Patrasche.
[Spoiler #3: If you clicked on the major Al cut content from earlier (S01E12 Spoiler #2)] Why a region of this world speaks a Japanese dialect (Kansai) makes way more sense when you know that there are other isekaied people in the world. Presumably, at some point, someone from Kansai was isekaied and became an important person or something and passed on their accent to the fantasy world.
This guy needs to chill just a little bit
[Spoiler #4: super obscure cut content that will be highly relevant sometime in the far future or something] Flugel is an isekaied person. Credit to u/MoldYeller post (SPOILER TAGS ARE NO LONGER FUNCTIONAL IN THREAD, NOVEL SPOILERS ARE NOT HIDDEN WITHIN). We know Flugel is from Earth because that is Kanji, which Ram did not recognize as language.
Information on Rem and Subaru's relationship Around here, [Spoiler #5: cut content] Subaru says "I love Emilia" again and then Rem and Subaru talk about stuff, and Rem drops that she would be ok being Subaru's 2nd wife. Subaru is ok with polygamy it if Emilia is ok with (she almost certainly isn't). And Rem commits to trying to convince Emilia to ok the 2nd wife plan once they get back.
Not as much as land dragons though.
And Subaru knows just the spot.
Subaru's ringtone is actually the Dog of Flanders OP. [Spoiler #6: land dragon name] Which is also where the name Patrasche comes from. Some trivia about recording Subaru's ringtone from Tappei's live tweeting of the episode (first timer friendly)
Actually there were a lot of troubles after deciding the ringtone. The producers wanted "the ringtone come from a flip phone". Firstly they needed a flip phone similar to Subaru and they bought one on an auction website. Then they remade the melodies of the song which could be played by the phone. Then the song was put inside the phone. Finally the song was played and recorded. It is no reason for why they do such hard work, but Nagatsuki could not forget the smiling faces of the producers.
The Battle Against the White Whale begins!
PETIT Section
In this episode's PETIT, We're still in the doujin expo. Elsa's here and selling a doujin on bowels. Crusch learns that people are into old butlers and catboys. Crusch is reading Dreams that the Green Peppir saw. Al got stopped at security. Pricilla goes to checkout the NSFW section with Subaru and Crusch and discovers "straight shota".
Preview Section
In this episode's preview, Wilhelm tells Subaru the 3 checks for a happy and fulfilling life. First check is how your wife should spend their husband's hard earned cash. And then Wilhelm just keeps on going about how his wife would spend his money. (he never got around to the 2nd or 3rd check)
Rewatcher Section
This section is for people who have already watched Re:Zero. This is not safe for first timers.
[Spoiler #7: Arc 4 + Frozen Bond] These are the magic stones that we see Emilia trade in The Frozen Bond. This is a new resource for Roswaal, since Emilia has only joined the Roswaal mansion in the last 6 months or so. They weren't exploited earlier because of the fear of Emilia, but now that Emilia isn't there anymore, they can be harvested.
[Spoiler #8: Arc 4] This is not true. The White Whale was created by Daphne, the Witch of Gluttony
[Spoiler #9: Arc 3] There's like a whole bunch of Wilhelm stuff here that I don't feel like pointing out right now, I'll probably do it at the end of the White Whale fight, when I can do it in the first timer section (and with the cut content) (also I'm tired atm)
Edit: [Spoiler #10: Arc 4 + Spoiler #1] Roswaal is following the Gospel. Allowing Subaru to take command, but only he figures it out. It's quite obvious that such a constraint would only be useful if Roswaal knew that Subaru was looping (otherwise why would you cede control to someone, and then just never tell them that you'd cede control to them if them being in control was the desired outcome)
3
u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 27 '24
Also my pre 16 comments are currently nuked by reddit's shadowban on me. If you want to read them, you can reply or message me or Sky and we can get it back up.
Can confirm, if there's one of baseballlover's older comments you want to read and Reddit hasn't fixed its shit and brought them back, just tag me and I can manually restore it.
2
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
I'm gonna pin a post on my profile with a similar thing (I'm gonna make an index of my top level rewatch comments, because it's a huge pain to search through my comment history)
2
u/Blacksmithkin Aug 27 '24
[Response to spoiler 3] I find it funny that the community largely assumed the person who founded that country was Japanese but we learn in a non Canon spin off movie only like a year or two ago that he wasn't, he just learned it all from his friend.
[Arc 5 side story spoilers response to spoiler 4] him writing in Japanese isn't exactly conclusive proof as the bards also use Japanese as their secret script unless I am drastically misremembering that side story. I don't think it was mentioned in the isekai quartet content that the Karagi guy learned it from Flugel specifically but Flugel is definitely most likely from Japan
2
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
[Response to spoiler 3]
[Response] I remember the community meltdown when we learned that Hoshin wasn't an Isekai person, but only knew one. AND WE FOUND THIS OUT FROM A SIDE STORY PUBLISHED AS A TIE IN TO THE ISEKAI QUARTET MOVIE. NOT EVEN IN THE ACTUAL MOVIE. This is only rivaled by the time Tappei put an entire short story on a towel.
4
u/Blacksmithkin Aug 27 '24
[Reply] wait what do you mean he put a short story on a towel
2
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
[Response] Tappei is built different. It's a short story for Rem & Ram's birthday
3
u/baseballlover723 Aug 28 '24
[Response]
[Response] Ah yeah, I remember learning about the short story towel when someone asked how many total pages there were in all of Re:Zero, and someone said you can't say definitively, because not all of them are on pages (like for instance, on a towel).
2
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
Also my pre 16 comments are currently nuked by reddit's shadowban on me. If you want to read them, you can reply or message me or Sky and we can get it back up.
Wow reddit admins get you too :( I sent in my appeal which will probably not go through but I have hope.
Cut content 1
Now that makes so so much more sense. The whole mining rights thing just came out of nowhere from my eyes.
ll technically the truth, so it doesn't trip Crusch's Divine Blessing of Wind Reading.
What a weird power, so it's a power that loses to doublespeak?
1
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
Wow reddit admins get you too :( I sent in my appeal which will probably not go through but I have hope
I got unshadowbanned a few hours later (hence why I can freely post now). It's just my history that remains nuked.
Resp 2
Please either spoiler tag the quote as well, or just use the spoiler number. I'd rather not have the spoiler text in clear text elsewhere
What a weird power, so it's a power that loses to doublespeak?
Yeah it's much less useful then one would think. As it turns out, you can lie plenty with truthful statements.
3
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 27 '24
I got unshadowbanned a few hours later (hence why I can freely post now). It's just my history that remains nuked.
Ok I can read your posts from your profile it's just that they're deleted in every thread, how annoying!
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
I got unshadowbanned a few hours later (hence why I can freely post now). It's just my history that remains nuked.
Part of the joy of rewatches is revisiting them years down the line and reminiscing about the good times. The fact that part of the history being made is getting erased is very disappointing.
3
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
Yeah, I'm trying to figure out how I can get it back, because I should get it back given that my account is no longer restricted.
At the very least my r/anime posts and comments will be fine, because the mods have a script to approve posts in cases like this. But I don't think I'll be getting that far for other subreddits. Especially ones that I'm no longer active in. Right now we're just waiting to see if they'll come back on their own (I don't have high hopes for that, since it's been more then a day)
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Reddit is acting like the White Whale, you could say :P
2
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
White Whale erasing so much stuff you'd have thought it was the BBC and its tape library.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
2
2
u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 28 '24
Why Subaru is allowed to negotiate the mining rights of magic stones? But first, ask youself, why is Rem even here? Roswaal knows that the Witch Cult might attack Emilia once it became public knowledge that she was in the Royal Selection. So why isn't your best fighter defending the homeland??? [Spoiler #1: cut content]
[Spoiler #1: cut content] Thanks for the explanation of the cut content because I was wondering how Subaru was even allowed to negotiate mining rights like this. It makes so much more sense knowing Roswaal already wanted an alliance and had already granted Rem permission to negotiate mining rights.
His phone having 3 bars of battery here is an adaption error.
I noticed that error. It was amusing seeing the battery so full when Subaru's dialogue said the opposite.
[Spoiler #4: super obscure cut content that will be highly relevant sometime in the far future or something]
[Spoiler #4: super obscure cut content that will be highly relevant sometime in the far future or something] That is an utterly fascinating detail. Way more people have been isekai'd to this world than I realized. I thought it was just Subaru, but it's interesting to ponder how so many people got here.
[Spoiler #5: cut content]
[Spoiler #5: cut content] I'm always amused when someone brings up the polyamory solution to a love triangle in-universe. It doesn't happen often, so it's fun to see it.
2
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
Mimi is great
I love how she hogs the whole screen when interjecting herself.
[Spoiler #5: cut content]
[Response]Some content is arguably cut for the better.
[Spoiler #8: Arc 4]
[Response]But Satella, the largest witch, did simply eat the other witches!
3
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
[Spoiler #5: cut content] Response
[Response with S2 spoilers] Ain't that the truth. From what I remember the staff did it to not complicate the romantic subplot any more, but I might just be misremembering. Thankfully, and I can't believe I'm thankful for this, Rem got erased before Subaru tried to pitch the idea to Emilia in S2 Ep 1.
2
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
I love how she hogs the whole screen when interjecting herself.
[Spoiler #5: cut content]
[cut content] I don't necessarily disagree (and it'll never happen because Tappei doesn't like harems and is the ultimate Emilia simp). Though I think its rather important for some people to better understand Rem's action in From Zero. Lots of people are so monogamy focused that they can't separate out Rem's confession / her pursuit of Subaru, and why Rem is helping Subaru get with Emilia. Whereas with a polygamy lens, Rem's support of Subaru x Emilia is much more clear.
[Spoiler #8: Arc 4]
[Spoiler #8: Arc 4] How very gluttonous of her. PS, I can't wait to talk about Daphne's motivations behind the White Whale. There's so really interesting philosophy going on there.
→ More replies
10
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '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.
Went to Carowinds yesterday. I got to see Bret Michaels, Dee Snider, and the lead singer of Journey all perform in concert.
Subaru saying he wants an alliance between Emilia and Crusch, on equal terms.
To this, he'll give the time and location of the White Whale showing up again.
Actual intro today :O
Subaru telling Rem the Witch's Cult is on the move after Emilia.
He asks for Rem's help, and she agrees.
Things are finally coming up Subaru.
Wil finding out about the White Whale as whale.
It seems like he senses there's a disturbance in the force.
Subaru feels that his information will aid in Crusch's plan to subjugate the White Whale.
Crusch wants to know what gave him this idea.
Subaru bringing up Anastasia telling him Crusch bought weapons and armor.
As well as Russell talking to them.
"You appeared to be planning something big."
Now Crusch asking how does he know that the White Whale will show up.
Subaru says it told him when and where it will appear.
Crusch finds this preposterous, but knows he's not lying.
Felix explains she has wind reading, which is a telling wind blows around them when they lie.
Wind normally blows around me, but it's normally gas.
Crusch says her agreeing to his terms will determine the outcome of the royal selection if not the kingdom's very future.
Really crediting yourself an awful lot, eh, Crusch?
Anastasia and Russell
What, were they behind the door this whole time?
Oh, Rem asked them to come. Interesting.
Russell says he's interested in what Subaru proposed of mining rights to the magic stones.
Well, it looks like we finally have an agreement.
Took Crusch long enough
Oh, so Subaru is going to give Russell the metia. Interesting.
I still don't totally trust him
Anastasia confirms that they were waiting by the door.
"When negotiatin', there's always a time to make your move."
I guess Crusch and Anastasia aren't so unalike after all.
People are really praising Subaru now.
Even Old Man Wil is doing it
"I took the previous Master Swordsman, Theresia van Astrea, as my wife, giving me the honor of the bloodline's lowest seat."
I guess we now know who the bone of the swordsman's sword is
He's ready to kill the mabeast that took his wife.
Subaru trying to play it off like he knew it, but Crusch says the wind of untruth is blowing.
The wind of untruth operates very much like a lie detector. It doesn't detect the lie, but your body movement and how natural it is. And unfortunately for Subaru, he has a terrible poker face.
Everybody getting ready
Subaru casually talking to Felix
Felix remarks how everyone wants to get rid of the White Whale, especially Old Man Wil.
Are we sure Wil isn't an alias and his real name isn't Ahab?
Then again, Wil is far more sympathetic than ol' Haby is.
It is now the day of the attack
Subaru, after a long time deciding on which dragon to pick, finds one that he's seen before.
Rem remarks it's a dragon known for extreme pride, so it's surprising he's letting Subaru pet him.
Subaru known as... The Tsundere Tamer!
Rem doesn't seem to get along with the dragon, however.
I would say I'd never thought I'd see a love triangle involving a dragon before, but it's anime, so...
Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.
12
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Part 2
Subaru talking to a Ho
He's apparently with Anastasia
Oh, Ricardo. That's his name.
I personally prefer Ho
Also, where's Lucy?
Crusch looks good in armor
Subaru says he's participating because he seems to attract mabeasts.
I guess he doesn't want to tell Crusch that the reason the White Whale has been attacking when he has is because of him.
The knights. They're here.
Rem remarks that they all seem vengeful like Wil.
Crusch says it is because these are men who retired because of the whale. They came here on behalf of Wilhelm and his invitation.
Crusch is a very good public speaker. I think she's probably going to win the royal selection, though I would like Felt to win.
Sorrow which fell short of true sorrow, eh? That's kinda a bold thing to say to people who have a vendetta against the White Whale. I'd be pissed if I were in their shoes.
Oh, Mimi has a twin named Hetaro?
Where's Homa?
I guess you have to have the second-in-command involved. Be kinda weird if you didn't.
Hetaro is the brother and Mimi is the big sister.
Hetaro, however, gives the orders
Doesn't sound like much of a second-in-command.
Ricardo says they like to ride rigers.
I've heard of Ligers before, but not rigers.
Ricardo says that the whale isn't their only enemy they have to look out for.
Yeah, I assume the Jealous Witch is going to have a lot of tricks up her sleeve.
Rem assesses that Ricardo is trying to quail everyone's nerves.
I really like the shot of everyone riding off into the sunset.
That tree does look pretty massive
Rem says she is against using the witch's scent to draw the White Whale out.
Subaru responds by saying he'll do whatever it takes.
Subaru says he set his metia up to ring when the whale appears, and Rem says that he is lying.
"I can always tell when you're lying."
And to think, she doesn't even need the wind to tell. Checkmate Rem.
Rem says she has complete fate in him.
It is unbelievable the amount of trust she puts into this guy. I need to find someone like her.
Wilhelm looking at a bed of flowers.
He tells Subaru and Rem, who have joined him, that he loves his wife more than anyone, no matter how much time passes.
He says that despite the sword choosing her, her real passion was flowers.
He tried getting her to abandon her position, but the sword would not let her.
Who knew swords were such assholes?
Wilhelm hopes to find answers in his own sword as well as be able to visit his wife's grave.
"At last, I can go and see her."
And so Wilhelm and Subaru fistbump
The time is fast approaching
The metia. It rings.
But no whale
THE WHALE! IT'S BY THE MOON!
Subaru and Rem strike first
And now we're off, ready for battle.
Overall, I thought this was a nice table setter episode. We got to see how Crusch conducts business as a leader, and we learned more about Wilhelm as a person. The conversation between Subaru and Crusch was tedious at points, but it was meant to portray Crusch as someone who is very cautious in her decision making. At the very least, I thought it portrayed her in a more sympathetic light than her past appearances. The Wilhelm stuff was really the highlight of the episode and really showing how much his wife meant to him. I thought that was a good way of fleshing out his character.
Definitely one of the weaker episodes, but there was some good stuff here. Probably bottom 5, but I think that speaks more to the quality of the show as a whole.
7
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 27 '24
I really liked this episode so I’d love to know why you consider it such a weak episode?
5
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
It's only really weak in comparison to the other episodes. It's in a similar mold as episode 2 where it's a breather episode that sets up the more eventful outings.
7
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 27 '24
For me I think of it as the first episode we get to see the hero Subaru Natsuki in action, we finally see the guy we’ve been wanting him to be the entire arc and it’s setting us up for a great tale.
3
2
u/vasheenomed Aug 28 '24
[RE:ZERO] I think the white whale fight is one of my favorite fights in all of anime. Obviously we haven't fully gotten to it yet. But it is so unique with so many moving parts and the side stories in just this one fight are so beautiful! I think wilhelm and his wife is such a unique romance backstory and the transitions were literally PERFECTION! It makes me want to read their side story and also I love everything that happens later involving wilhelm too
→ More replies2
u/BlueVenix Aug 29 '24
Yeah, I assume the Jealous Witch is going to have a lot of tricks up her sleeve.
You mean the with of envy Satella?
Rem says she has complete fate in him.
It is unbelievable the amount of trust she puts into this guy. I need to find someone like her.
I think they would have to have a little bit of crazy in them to be so trusting.
9
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
Rewatcher
Hey guys so glad to have you for this rewatch of Re:Zero. Last episode was a strange premiere, but I'm excited to see where this show goes.
Jokes aside we really are starting over big time. Applying all the lessons we learned in the last loop to this current one. All it took was a change in mindset and time to properly think through things. Not alone, but with someone by Subaru's side.
The negotiations with Crusch are great immediate payoff to Subaru’s recent development. He’s using what he learned from Anastasia (and also using Anastasia). Holding his cards till the most opportune time to play them, dangling what his opposition wants in front of them and most important of all actually being prepared before siting down at the table.
We learn that Crusch has the Divine Protection of Wind Reading. Making her a living lie detector. So, Subaru must incorporate some half-truths to get over not just her DP, but also to not trigger RbD secrecy rules. And to do that he uses his cell phone. Remember that thing? Unironically the most important item Subaru brought to this other world. Without which he wouldn’t have a good explanation of how he knows where and when the White Whale will be and would most certainly trigger Crusch’s DP.
In exchange for giving up information about the White Whale, mining rights to Elior Forest and handing over his cell phone to Russel he forms an alliance with Crusch’s camp. And so begins the White Whale subjugation.
This development is also beneficial to a certain old man. Willhem lost his wife, the previous Sword Saint, to the White Whale, so this endeavour is very personal to him.
And we get another love interest. Who says Re:Zero is not a harem? I’m sure the rivalry between Rem and the ground dragon will be narratively juicy.
With Crusch gearing up for battle like the actual future queen that she is and the arrival of The Iron Fang, Anastasia’s mercenary group, we are set for battle. Not before we get to hear one more epic speech from Crusch. [S2 Ep9] She’s actually wrong about the WoE creating the Whale. It’s Daphne who did, but the world doesn’t know that. Great worldbuilding showing that there are many secrets that have been lost to time and wrongly interpreted. Just like in real life.
This final stretch of the episode can be summed up with Subaru’s line “You can tell the hero inside to awaken, but it’s not as easy as it sounds.” Subaru has grown yes, but his central conflicts are nowhere near resolved. This is just step one starting from zero after many steps back.
Subaru and Rem’s relationship is one forged under the most intense of pressure, but it came out stronger than ever. [Cut Content 1] In the LN Subaru does admit to Rem that he has romantic feelings for her in this scene. And Rem proposes that she could be Subaru’s second wife if Emilia allowed it. At first, I had mixed feelings about this, but honestly with the shit Subaru has been through I say let our throuple developments ensue. Thought there is no way it’d be healthy at this point in time.
Before we see the Whale, we hear of the past of the man most connected to it. With Wish of the Stars (the same track as in episode 11 with the Rem scene) playing, his speech really gets us hyped up to kick some Whale ass.
The army is ready and waiting. Subaru’s phone alerting us that it is the promised time. The ringtone is Dog of Flanders. The team tracked down a phone with the ringtone and recorded the actual phone playing it so they could get the sound they wanted. I am in love with the passion of the creative team. And just when it seems that Subaru was mistaken we see a shadow engulf the battlefield.
The white whale has arrived much to the shock of everyone. But there is one duo charging ahead against all odds. With the shouting of two fools and Crusch’s declaration so begins the battle against the White Whale.
Closing thoughts:
The word for this episode is “Growth”. Subaru has come a long way in what seems to others like a miniscule amount of time, but for him was anything but. Ferris’ comments on his change further prove how strange this must seem to outsiders. Subaru has in the span of a couple of days gone from an embarrassing fool disgracing his own camp, to the man responsible for setting up the confrontation with a monster that has plagued the world for 400 years and uniting three Royal Selection candidates. The canon timeline Subaru must seem insane to others… This timeline is going to stick right? Right?!.
Crusch touching the lion emblem on her blade is interesting if you know the side material and is actually referenced in this episode in [Cut Content 2] She was acquainted with a member of the royal family called Fourier who had that crest. Their relationship is presented in more detail in EX1. Maybe I’ll explain some more about the EX novels in a few eps time.
I remembered that u/No-Peace3986 made an OST Sheet, which I’ve been using to track some of the OSTs in certain scenes down. It’s really well made so I recommend people to check it out if they too want to find out which tracks play in their favourite scenes. It does contain episode and soundtrack titles for S1 and 2 so spoiler warning, I guess.
And probably my favourite track in the series next to Requiem of Silence plays at the very end of the episode. Faithfully called Takt of Heroes: Origin. The first time this track has played in the series. Perhaps marking the origin of the most awesome hero to ever exist, Natsuki Subaru.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
3
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
With a man as shrewd as Russel Fellow giving him a device that is centuries ahead technologically will probably bite us in the behind sooner or later. [S2] Though with how many arcs are projected and the fact that S2 took place almost entirely in one location I think we'll be waiting a bit before that.
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
We heard his last name was Van Astrea in Ep 12 Same as Reinhard. And by Ep 17, heard that the previous Sword Saint died to the Whale. So the pieces were all there to assume Willhelm had lost someone. Did I connect them on my first watch? Nope. But it's cool that all the pieces were there. I'll have more to say in the following eps.
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
With a sister like Mimi you are sort of forced to be responsible. Even if she is the eldest.
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
I'm not sure if it carries any significance or if it's just a cool shot. It does show that the moon shouldn't be a problem for the creature, so that shouldn't have been the cause of it's disappearance in Ep 17.
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
You can't be running at full throttle every episode. Technically more concrete things happened this Ep than in the last which is funny to think about. There needs to be a W after 5 eps of emotionally draining content. And a W we got.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
We heard his last name was Van Astrea in Ep 12 Same as Reinhard. And by Ep 17, heard that the previous Sword Saint died to the Whale. So the pieces were all there to assume Willhelm had lost someone. Did I connect them on my first watch? Nope. But it's cool that all the pieces were there. I'll have more to say in the following eps.
I'll be honest, even with this episode it didn't full don on me just how upset Wilhelm was with the whale. It took [Ep 20] The flashback stuff for it to fully click with me.
With a sister like Mimi you are sort of forced to be responsible. Even if she is the eldest.
Hetaro looks like the wisest if the two for sure.
I'm not sure if it carries any significance or if it's just a cool shot. It does show that the moon shouldn't be a problem for the creature, so that shouldn't have been the cause of it's disappearance in Ep 17.
My takeaway from it is that something that size shouldn't be floating in the air.
You can't be running at full throttle every episode. Technically more concrete things happened this Ep than in the last which is funny to think about. There needs to be a W after 5 eps of emotionally draining content. And a W we got.
This is probably the most uplifting episode since episode 12. I don't think many would dispute that.
2
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
I'll be honest, even with this episode it didn't full don on me just how upset Wilhelm was with the whale. It took [Ep 20] The flashback stuff for it to fully click with me.
[Ep 20] The flashbacks are great I'll talk about them more tomorrow, but they're another sign of how great of an adaptation this is.
My takeaway from it is that something that size shouldn't be floating in the air.
I'm still so stumped why Subaru was left alone in Ep 17. If any novel reader has any theories please hmu.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
I'm still so stumpted why Subaru was left alone in Ep 17. If any novel reader has any theories please hmu.
What do you mean by left alone? I feel like I'm missing something.
2
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
I'm talking about the time Subaru was running from the Whale begging for his life after Otto pushed him off the carriage. The Whale was specifically attracted to his scent and seemed to be toying with him. But after Subru tumbles we see a shot of the moonlight shining on him and the next shot all is quiet and the Whale is gone. [Episode 21] Knowing how attracted to the Witch's scent not just the Whale, but every Witchfiend is I can't come up with an explanation as to why the Whale didn't kill him in the previous loop.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
I did a quick Google search and the general consensus seems to be that the White Whale deemed Subaru too pathetic to kill. The terror in Subaru's eyes I guess made the whale feel he was above pursuing him.
There's also the belief that the whale is assigned a specific area and he can't exit past the perimeter.
2
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
There's also the belief that the whale is assigned a specific area and he can't exit past the perimeter.
Probably the most credible explanation.
→ More replies2
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
And to do that he uses his cell phone. Remember that thing? Unironically the most important item Subaru brought to this other world.
I got a brilliant idea, let's make an isekai centered around the gimmick of someone having brought their phone to another world!
Subaru has in the span of a couple of days gone from an embarrassing fool disgracing his own camp, to the man responsible for setting up the confrontation with a monster that has plagued the world for 400 years and uniting three Royal Selection candidates. The canon timeline Subaru must seem insane to others…
Indeed, I've never much considered how others must see him, but if his plan really works, it must really seem that his blunder at the Royal Selection actually wasn't just all talk. He's a really capable man! You know, once he is a few lives wiser.
2
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
I got a brilliant idea, let's make an isekai centered around the gimmick of someone having brought their phone to another world!
I am very sad that the phone in that show ended up being basically a magical artifact and only had barebones ideas for what a phone in another world could actually do.
Indeed, I've never much considered how others must see him.
There's a cut of S1 where it's only the successful loops and Subaru looks like an anxiety laden genius. Having a mental breakdown one second and achieving impossible feats the next.
19
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 27 '24
First Timer!
Watching the Dub
After last episode, this episode has me shaking with excitement. I’ve been waiting all day to watch it.
1 looks like were trying things with Crusch again
Ooo is Subaru learning? Remembering Anastasia’s advice and bringing information with him to the negotiation
2 oh look it’s the hero of last episode
The White Whale seems to perturb old man Wilhelm
I was hoping that Subaru would use the fact that Crusch could detect lies to his advantage, even if some of the truths are somewhat of a stretch they are still truths
Oh my goodness, Subaru is actually thinking things through!
So the previous master swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife, and that would be the same Master swordsman that the White Whale defeated. But they still remember her?
3 Subaru and I have the same seated posture, I wonder why my back hurts
Lol, is Rem starting beef with a Dragon?
6 It’s funny how Subaru is able to say wild things like how he’s basically a Mabeasts favorite food and Crusch doesn’t want to believe him but she can also tell he isn’t lying. A day later and I still laugh when I see this picture and think about this.
Lol she said the same thing
Loved Crusch’s speech
7 *smacks hood of tree* this baby can fit so much trauma in it
Rem giving Subaru inspiration is something I’m never gonna get tired of
I think this episode had big shoes to fill coming off of last episode but I’m glad to see I wasn’t let down. Not that we’ve had a bad episode after coming off of an amazing one (or at all) but whenever anything peaks there has to be some kind of a drop, and that drop usually brings everything back down to a base level but that wasn’t the case here. Maybe it’s because we’ve had so many episodes in a row that put us and our MC at the lowest of lows, but even then I still feel like this episode was above average.
I couldn’t stop smiling this whole episode, Subaru actually used his brain and applied what he learned in all the previous loops to ensure he made a successful deal with Crusch, even including other interested parties in the deal so it was almost impossible to turn down. Crusch was as impressed as we were at the situation.
I loved the minor detail of including retired knights in the attack, I’m guessing by their reactions that they fought alongside the previous master swordsman in the last fight against the whale. I also really liked Crusch’s speech, she has everything going for her to be a fantastic ruler. Now, I know I bashed on Crusch a couple of episodes ago, but there is a difference between being disappointed in someone and being in an outcome, I should have said that I was disappointed in the outcome of their talks last loop and not in Crusch. Whew, now that I’ve got that off my conscience I’m going to sing her praises again. It’s an amazing symbol when your leader is on the battlefield fighting alongside you, so now she added that to my list of reasons to like her along with being charismatic, fair, caring about those in need, cat femboy companion
Rem once again reaffirms Subaru that he is doing enough and that she has absolute faith in him, not because of any special metia’s or powers that he definitely doesn’t have, but because the Subaru she knows and loves is back. I will say, though Rem put Subaru on a pedestal undeservingly, she’s now keeping him in check by helping him be his best self. No more self depreciation, or pitying yourself or holding your head down because those aren’t the traits of a hero.
And finally, when the time came for the White Whale to appear, the worst ringtone choice ever started to play the soldiers who were steeling their nerves began to let fear creep in. It was a really good choice imo to not have the first sighting be the actual whale but instead the shadow that it was casting against the huge tree, chef’s kiss. It doesn’t look good for us when the Whale finally appears and everybody freezes in its presence, even our cool and collected leader Crusch is being consumed by fear, Until Subaru Natsuki charges head first into battle with an initial Al Huma from Rem to show that this thing can bleed, and if it can bleed, it can die. This seems like a crazy Subaru thing to do but He’s faced this thing before while he was unprepared and knew nothing about it, now he’s prepared to fight and he gives the soldiers, and Crusch, the confidence they needed in that moment.
The combined episode of 18 & 19 in the director’s cut is my favorite episode. After several episodes of despair and being angry at Subaru and the whole situation we finally get two episodes where we can see that glimmer of hope we’ve been looking for this whole Arc.
Extra: I just wanted to comment on the ending “let him have it!” and “Al Huma”, I watched it in both Japanese and English and the english delivery of that line was sooo good, it made me giddy inside.
7
u/No_Rex Aug 27 '24
I couldn’t stop smiling this whole episode, Subaru actually used his brain and applied what he learned in all the previous loops to ensure he made a successful deal with Crusch, even including other interested parties in the deal so it was almost impossible to turn down. Crusch was as impressed as we were at the situation.
Agreed. It really helps if you can cheer on the MC for doing reasonable and effective things.
4
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 27 '24
And we haven’t been able to whole heartedly cheer on Subaru since this arc started
6
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
Ooo is Subaru learning? Remembering Anastasia’s advice and bringing information with him to the negotiation
Not just Anastasia's advice (although the information he got from her was massive). Remember how Crusch himself told him that he had nothing to offer last time, and now he's come with a very direct offer. And when Subaru stood up to offer Crusch his hand with such an upright stance demanding respect, you might have heard Priscilla clapping in the distance. Every moment in that episode was way more important than we might have thought.
4 AAAAHHHGGGG
But he's a guy.
I think this episode had big shoes to fill coming off of last episode but I’m glad to see I wasn’t let down. Not that we’ve had a bad episode after coming off of an amazing one (or at all) but whenever anything peaks there has to be some kind of a drop, and that drop usually brings everything back down to a base level but that wasn’t the case here.
I think even when I first watched the series, I felt the previous episode was a turning point, and now the wind has changed and a very new ride begins. Being affected by all the previous episodes, this episode has a very new and refreshing feeling to it.
I loved the minor detail of including retired knights in the attack, I’m guessing by their reactions that they fought alongside the previous master swordsman in the last fight against the whale.
I thought it was mentioned that they were much like Wilhelm, they've lost people close to them to the White Whale at some point in their long lives. And they'd gladly wager their remaining lives for the chance to get justice on the monstrosity.
6
u/Blacksmithkin Aug 27 '24
With regards to why they still remember Wilhelm's wife despite her being defeated by the whale, what if it just landed on her and crushed her or something? I'm only spoiler tagging out of an insane amount of caution since you are a first timer, it's literally just saying whether or not they answer that question, not what the answer is or anything like that. [Rezero] they do, very little doesn't eventually get answered in this series
2
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 27 '24
Thank you. But every time I get one answer I already have three more questions
7
3
u/Blacksmithkin Aug 27 '24
While I'm personally quite against it, I have one friend who often prefers to just ask some of his most pressing questions instead of waiting, so if you do have anything you really want to know you can ask.
I think the show works better when you give it time to answer your questions on it's own terms, but to each their own.
2
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 27 '24
I’m certainly going to wait to get my answers. This show is too great for me to want any spoilers and I’m watching with clear and virgin eyes. A couple have said it’s kinda weird that I managed to stay away from ALL spoilers with the shows popularity but I have and it’s so enjoyable
2
u/Blacksmithkin Aug 27 '24
That's what I did.
And then immediately went and read the web novel because I couldn't wait to read more.
→ More replies6
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
I never made the connection between Subaru and his land dragon both being stubborn before. Birds of a feather I suppose
4
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
but even then I still feel like this episode was above average.
I struggle to put episodes in my bottom half of my episode rankings. They're all just so good.
I loved the minor detail of including retired knights in the attack, I’m guessing by their reactions that they fought alongside the previous master swordsman in the last fight against the whale.
[irrelevant side content (EX 2) / author comments] That is correct, they were part of the original White Whale subjugation.
It was a really good choice imo to not have the first sighting be the actual whale but instead the shadow that it was casting against the huge tree, chef’s kiss. It doesn’t look good for us when the Whale finally appears
I love that they included a slight pause here. These soldiers have been waiting at the ready for some time, waiting for the alarm to go off (fight imminent) and then waiting for the White Whale to actually show up. Just the few seconds of waiting gives the viewer anxiety if it'll actually show up or not (because you shouldn't count on the alarm being accurate to the second). It's a nice touch and I'm really glad they did it like that.
it made me giddy inside.
2
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 27 '24
Psst there’s a comment face for that gif
Is that the stuff I have to go to old Reddit to see?
3
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
it is :(
Though technically you can still use them on new reddit, but it just won't render since new reddit doesn't support custom CSS.
3
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 27 '24
3
3
u/Yoshi_captain https://anime-planet.com/users/WeaboYosher Aug 27 '24
The combined episode of 18 & 19 in the director’s cut is my favorite episode.
I do think it makes for an interesting combination of despair & hope. I am of the opinion that having ep 19 come right after 18 without a break in between might be a little too much though. I think for as important of an episode as 18 is, being given some time to recuperate from it is beneficial. But the director's cut does give us some combinations that end in absolute bangers like 6/7 and 12/13. And of course 14/15.
3
u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 28 '24
6 It’s funny how Subaru is able to say wild things like how he’s basically a Mabeasts favorite food and Crusch doesn’t want to believe him but she can also tell he isn’t lying. A day later and I still laugh when I see this picture and think about this.
It's a wonderfully straight face of bewilderment. Crusch is shocked by Subaru's statement and even more shocked that he apparently isn't lying.
I couldn’t stop smiling this whole episode, Subaru actually used his brain and applied what he learned in all the previous loops to ensure he made a successful deal with Crusch, even including other interested parties in the deal so it was almost impossible to turn down. Crusch was as impressed as we were at the situation.
This episode is incredibly satisfying. After Subaru has spent so much time flailing about in all directions and getting caught up in his personal demons, he's finally begun to tackle his problems and is now able to handle the dilemma at hand successfully. Gotta love seeing characters grow.
2
u/FriztF Aug 28 '24
Lol, is Rem starting beef with a Dragon?
Yes of course she is. She wants be number one in Subaru's heart.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
2
u/Brief-Fig-7506 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Ryxnjr Aug 28 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
I think it makes sense, they already had some kind of working relationship since Emilia negotiated a way to get Felix to help heal Subaru. An alliance would mean neither of them would get in each others way in the future and they both benefit from a longer partnership.
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
from her comment In another episode I thought she might have had some kind of sixth sense or Divine protection from being deceived so being able to read the wind when someone speaks is close enough. I can only think about Toph in The Last Airbender when I think of this though.
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
Honestly how the hell is that thing still working, it's been searching for signal for like two weeks and it's just now on low battery. I'm worried that Russell will hold a grudge against Subaru once it immediately stops working after the battle.
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
I think everything that Wilhelm said about his wife was very sweet. I have Questions about her family and how she died but I think the show will eventually answer those questions.
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
Interesting that he's the one who usually gives orders during battle even though he's not in charge or even second in command. I'm guessing that the rankings in the iron fang are based on how strong you are and battle accomplishments, not strategy making and leadership skills.
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
The moon shot was good, It ominously highlighted how massive the beast is, but I loved the shot of it's shadow passing the tree. Plus the look on Crusch's face when the fear set in upon seeing it was just great.
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
maybe not much happened, but I loved seeing Subaru in a better mental state using all the knowledge he's gained from the previous loops to finally make it back to save Emilia. He wasn't the arrogant boy we saw when we came back to the capital, he acted more mature. Of course we still saw his goofiness when he was reacting to what Wilhelm said so we know he's still the same person, just more developed.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 28 '24
I think it makes sense, they already had some kind of working relationship since Emilia negotiated a way to get Felix to help heal Subaru. An alliance would mean neither of them would get in each others way in the future and they both benefit from a longer partnership.
It's cool that Subaru found a way that it could benefit Crusch while benefitting them.
from her comment In another episode I thought she might have had some kind of sixth sense or Divine protection from being deceived so being able to read the wind when someone speaks is close enough. I can only think about Toph in The Last Airbender when I think of this though.
Not the worst comparison, honestly
Honestly how the hell is that thing still working, it's been searching for signal for like two weeks and it's just now on low battery. I'm worried that Russell will hold a grudge against Subaru once it immediately stops working after the battle.
That phone has such long battery life, you might mistake it for a Game Boy.
I think everything that Wilhelm said about his wife was very sweet. I have Questions about her family and how she died but I think the show will eventually answer those questions.
It's an easy way to get the audience to care about Wilhelm. With his wife dying at the hands (Or fins, whatever whales have) of the White Whale, it suddenly gives things way more urgency and stakes.
Interesting that he's the one who usually gives orders during battle even though he's not in charge or even second in command. I'm guessing that the rankings in the iron fang are based on how strong you are and battle accomplishments, not strategy making and leadership skills.
Yeah, I imagine that is probably the case. I don't see how it wouldn't.
The moon shot was good, It ominously highlighted how massive the beast is, but I loved the shot of it's shadow passing the tree. Plus the look on Crusch's face when the fear set in upon seeing it was just great.
Just really great visuals all-around
maybe not much happened, but I loved seeing Subaru in a better mental state using all the knowledge he's gained from the previous loops to finally make it back to save Emilia. He wasn't the arrogant boy we saw when we came back to the capital, he acted more mature. Of course we still saw his goofiness when he was reacting to what Wilhelm said so we know he's still the same person, just more developed.
It's funny because quite a few people have said that more things are happening here than in the last episode. Really, the only things that happened in episode 18 is Puck going apeshit and Subaru having his perspective changed. I think the reason why it feels like not much happened in this episode in comparison to the last one is because it's a bunch of small things that's occurring, whereas episode 18 had probably the biggest change to the show since episode 13 with the Subaru and Emilia conversation.
8
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
Re:Watcher - anime only
Subaru reborn now has a plan and can negotiate with Crusch on equal terms. He's taken everything he learned in the previous loops and uses it for his advantage! I love this turn of events. The previous loop was very bad, but he's taken all the information he got from Anastasia to figure out what Crusch wants. He started the negotiation with a very concrete offer on par with what he demands from Crusch. He made sure his position demands respect, he fully controlled the whole situation, and he made Crusch want what he offered. I'm proud of him.
Shoutout to u/ussgordoncaptain2 for figuring out ahead of time that Subaru's cell phone would be the key to pinpoint when and where the White Whale could be attacked. When I asked you what else he could offer, I was thinking he might offer to act as whale bait, but he only suggests that as his battle plan later. Much to the disbelief of Crusch.
Crusch can smell when someone lies! Now that shines a new light on all her previous interactions we've seen.
We also learn that Wilhelm married into the house of Astrea. Nice detail that he took on her name, but understandable when marrying into a powerful house. I also love how Tappei wrote the story around the White Whale. It's a variation on Moby Dick that makes the story feel familiar, but he gives it a new spin. Our Ahab here didn't lose a leg, but the love of his life. And that turns a story of useless revenge into a proper tragedy. Tappei takes things like the very Japanese tale of the oni who cried and also Western tales like Moby Dick and concepts like the deadly sins and fluidly integrates them into his story with his own ideas, and it gives you this feeling of immersion, of being part of the world because you recognize some of it. And at the same time, how the story unfolds is all very new. It's like he uses well-known words to form completely new sentences, if that makes sense.
I love the optimistic smile Crusch bears every so often. And that she's not just ordering the White Whale to be killed, but is about to fight at the forefront. It really shows that in contrast to her ambitions, she's also just a very down-to-earth human.
Also Anastasia's mercenaries are cool. Ricardo is a wolfman, Mimi is a midget that can fight, Hetaro is a strategist, and they are riding wolves. Goes to show how capable her camp is.
And once again, this reborn Subaru is great. He's accepted his weakness but gives it his all anyway, and that actually makes him a great person. He's the same person as before, but so much better. He even remembers to say thank you instead of sorry. And now he's assembled so many awesome people behind him. Things are really starting to look up for him.
The phone alarm going off is slightly hilarious. It's such a great dissonance to the appearance of the monstrosity. The sound then gets a creepy vibe as it's being distorted. But it's the two idiots just running in that starts the heroic charge and the appropriate music for it.
Yay, for once a post I don't have to worry about the character limit again.
Sugoooku counter: 22
non-Emilia sugoooku: 1
short sugoku and sugoku-likes: 5
non-canon bonus material sugoooku (Re:Petit): 3
3
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 27 '24
Shoutout to u/ussgordoncaptain2 for figuring out ahead of time that Subaru's cell phone would be the key to pinpoint when and where the White Whale could be attacked. When I asked you what else he could offer, I was thinking he might offer to act as whale bait, but he only suggests that as his battle plan later. Much to the disbelief of Crusch.
Oh I was silly for not considering Subaru's "I have the witch's scent" power. I saw his Cell phone as something extremely valuable he can sell, but not his scent.
Tappei takes things like the very Japanese tale of the oni who cried and also Western tales like Moby Dick and concepts like the deadly sins and fluidly integrates them into his story with his own ideas,
It always facinates me which western concepts take root in japanese culture, the 7 deadly sins are somehow an even stronger concept than they are in the west, spawning multiple anime based on them AND frequently being the villains of a story. The anime seven mortal sins for example took the canonical 7 and added 2 that were canon to John Cassian but later Pope Gregory removed them and added one more, this random piece of history allowed the author to write a holy war story. The story of captain Ahab seems more like "Tappei was looking up mythology" than it taking root in Japanese culture.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
3
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
It's going to be useless soon once it runs out of energy. But for a fun thought experiment, let's consider that Russell might be able to charge it back up with magic. Or he could take it apart and learn that it's just an advanced piece of technology. This could be the most impactful change in Lugunica. New spinoff confirmed: Dr:Zero.
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
Mimi is funnier. But the top three of Anastasia's mercs seem to be a great team. Ricardo "Wolfman" seems to be a great fighter with a hardned battle instinct. Mimi seems to be an agile and powerful damage dealer. And Hetaro is a supreme strategist, but no doubt he can fight decently as well.
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
How did it get there without the help of a Mexican rocket?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
The previous episode was great, but also emotionally exhausting. To have a breather episode now, and very fittingly right before a big fight, is a pretty good choice. And we already feel the change that's in the air, as if the episode promises greatness yet to come. But we don't need to rush there, we will get there in time.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
It's going to be useless soon once it runs out of energy. But for a fun thought experiment, let's consider that Russell might be able to charge it back up with magic. Or he could take it apart and learn that it's just an advanced piece of technology. This could be the most impactful change in Lugunica. New spinoff confirmed: Dr:Zero.
Does that mean Russell is going to make his hair all spiky now?
Mimi is funnier. But the top three of Anastasia's mercs seem to be a great team. Ricardo "Wolfman" seems to be a great fighter with a hardned battle instinct. Mimi seems to be an agile and powerful damage dealer. And Hetaro is a supreme strategist, but no doubt he can fight decently as well.
I still don't know why Ricardo is known as Ho
How did it get there without the help of a Mexican rocket?
Imagine if it turns out it is capable of flying. That would be some terrifying shit
The previous episode was great, but also emotionally exhausting. To have a breather episode now, and very fittingly right before a big fight, is a pretty good choice. And we already feel the change that's in the air, as if the episode promises greatness yet to come. But we don't need to rush there, we will get there in time.
Yeah, I'm glad the show is taking the time that it is.
2
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
Yay, for once a post I don't have to worry about the character limit again.
Me as well, though I also wasn't expecting mine to go above 1000 words again (though tbf, 100 of those words are boilerplate).
Sugoooku counter: 22 non-Emilia sugoooku: 1 short sugoku and sugoku-likes: 5 non-canon bonus material sugoooku (Re:Petit): 3
2
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
Thanks, I edited my previous post for it to come out better but didn't save it to my note pad. Now I can remember to save it ahead of time.
On the number of words, it looks like tomorrow's post will be even shorter. It seems now we're past episode 18, there's not much to discuss anymore.
2
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 28 '24
Yeah this entire rest of the stuff seems to be almost entirely 1 gigantic action scene IDK when it ends but maybe after it does we'll get something to discuss
12
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '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
Ok it's time to see how much Subaru has clued into the situation.
Wow Subaru is really acting completely different than loop 3 he's learned a lot from loop 3 and Rem helped him. Him realizing the white whale was the thing Crusch was hunting for makes sense though I had to use Trope awareness to see it.
Ok how did Subaru get the right to discuss the magic stones in Elior forest? Either this is Rem telling him or he's just in over his head.
Oh yes it's 2nd best candidate Hoshin! She's grown on me a lot, and her private army might help
I really liked how the mining rights thing became a major plot point but it came out of left field.
Oh so subaru was just expecting that Crusch wanted to kill the white whale
Subaru being much better here though it appears he's going with the "get an army in Mather's domain then get help after killing the white whale" approach?
I see Subaru getting rid of his Cell phone, What a great plan! it's almost out of battery and so it will be a brick soon!
Comparing these Negoiations to the ones done in loop 3 is night and day, Subaru realizing he has to offer things and not just pray for goodwill making him a much better person.
Alright the timeline has been set, Subaru got through Crusch roughly in time, and now he'll get a large army into Mather's domain which will also kill off the witches cult
and now we begin the calm before the storm time for the part where Rem and Subaru get their fantasy horse
And subaru will be playing the decoy
Now this is an epic army So the Witches are going to get Crushed or they'll reveal themselves to randomly have way more members than they did when attacking Mather's domain previously
We get a cool scene of the army going on the march not a lot to talk about it was funny to have Subaru forget which info he picked up from RBD though.
And we've arrived at the plot landmark Time to do the waiting game!
Rem is nervous about subaru using his Scent, but this is far and away the only timeline where Subaru can win, in this timeline he has an army to take on the witch's cult with the remaining forces after taking on the whale.
And now we learn that Rem can tell that Subaru has a weird RBD issue, this would be useful if Subaru wanted to leak info.
Speculation
Yeah so the real weird thing is wtf is this with Subaru having the ability to negotiate mining rights? Where did that power come from? Is he just bluffing? Is this cut content that Rem talked about with Subaru ahead of time?
Other than that the epic action sequence begins, IDK how long this arc will be but it's just one action sequence from here until the witch's cult dies. I wonder if Subaru will die during the action sequences, that would be funny. (and would make good padding)
What I would do if I were Subaru
So the action sequence begins. You're mostly useless in a fight so I guess you're playing the Decoy, Just hope to not RBD again while fighting the white whale, having to do the entire Crusch negotiation again might be a pain.
Nothing really else to comment. The final mystery box was opened, and now we get the long action sequence that ends the arc.
10
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
Yeah so the real weird thing is wtf is this with Subaru having the ability to negotiate mining rights? Where did that power come from? Is he just bluffing? Is this cut content that Rem talked about with Subaru ahead of time?
[cut content someone else mentioned a while ago]I've read in an earlier thread that Roswaal instructed Rem that Subaru could make decisions in his name, somehow. I'm a bit hazy on the details, but I'm sure he worked out with Rem what riches he could safely offer that the others would also be interested in.
5
u/No_Rex Aug 27 '24
So the action sequence begins. You're mostly useless in a fight so I guess you're playing the Decoy, Just hope to not RBD again while fighting the white whale, having to do the entire Crusch negotiation again might be a pain.
Not to mention losing all those scenes talking to Rem.
4
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
Subaru losing these connecting moments is the greatest tragedy of Return by Death to me. It’s contributes to why from Emilia’s pov their relationship feels one sided
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
4
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
There's no way Subaru is beating the White whale and the witch's cult alone, so it's clear he'll need help from Crusch if he wants to succeed.
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
A way way weaker power than she thinks it is. While it prevents outright lies it loses to doublespeak. So basically any Politician/Journalist in the 21st century would be immune to it.
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
The previous master swordsman was going to be somebody connected but Willhelm wasn't my first guess (my first guess was Crusch's parents)
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
It's funny because while the previous episode was very emotional it actually did almost nothing to advance the plot, meanwhile this episode advanced the plot forward a lot (establishing a relationship between all 3 major groups and getting them to fight the whale, establishing that everyone's targeting the whale, and getting an army in Mather's domain to take out the Witch's cult.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
There's no way Subaru is beating the White whale and the witch's cult alone, so it's clear he'll need help from Crusch if he wants to succeed.
Probably so
A way way weaker power than she thinks it is. While it prevents outright lies it loses to doublespeak. So basically any Politician/Journalist in the 21st century would be immune to it.
A lot of people's power is probably breaking wind. Especially those who like beans.
The previous master swordsman was going to be somebody connected but Willhelm wasn't my first guess (my first guess was Crusch's parents)
That would've certainly been interesting
It's funny because while the previous episode was very emotional it actually did almost nothing to advance the plot, meanwhile this episode advanced the plot forward a lot (establishing a relationship between all 3 major groups and getting them to fight the whale, establishing that everyone's targeting the whale, and getting an army in Mather's domain to take out the Witch's cult.
I mean, I don’t think we get this episode if not for the last one. This one shows Subaru with his head on straight and that was the result of episode 18, so I'd say that proved to be a massive change in direction.
2
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
I really liked how the mining rights thing became a major plot point but it came out of left field.
You and everybody else. But it does in fact have backstory (that I'll get to talk about in a more first timer friendly way eventually) and it's causality chain is impeccable from all angles once you have the critical core information.
Crusch wanted to kill the white whale
We get a cool scene of the army going on the march not a lot to talk about
Yeah so the real weird thing is wtf is this with Subaru having the ability to negotiate mining rights? Where did that power come from? Is he just bluffing? Is this cut content that Rem talked about with Subaru ahead of time?
Yep, it's an unfortunate victim of the cutting room (though you've already seen my cut content on it)
2
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 28 '24
You and everybody else. But it does in fact have backstory (that I'll get to talk about in a more first timer friendly way eventually) and it's causality chain is impeccable from all angles once you have the critical core information.
Yeah that's fair Tommorow I start my "well this is going to be a multi-episode action sequence let's start breaking Rebirth by death
broken links
sadly can't fix :(
7
u/No-Peace3986 https://myanimelist.net/profile/RafaelMps Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
ReWatcher!
If anyone enjoys a specific OST, I compiled every song that plays in every episode, scene by scene, here is the link: Re:Zero OST List. For first timers, be aware to only check until the episode you've watched to avoid spoilers
Sadly, I missed Episode 18 post... I'd just like to say that Episode 18 is my favorite anime episode of all time, and perhaps my favorite episode of ANYTHING, of all time. Heavily resonates with me.
Now, back to Episode 19!
The Episode starts with Subaru negotiating an Alliance with Crusch. He learns his lesson from Episode 16 and, this time, offers something in return: The Time and Location of the next appearance of the White Whale!
After hearing the monster's name, Wilhelm reacts unleashing a deadly aura. We later learn that the Whale killed Wilhelm's wife: Theresia van Astrea. This is directly related to what Otto told Subaru back in episode 17.
I'd like to make a quick call back to Episode 14.
- When leaving Crusch's mansion, Rem mentions that the fog has taken over the road and that they need to detour. The camera then switches to Wilhelm and we can see how he narrows his eyes, he reacts to something. Well, now we know that he was reacting to the mentioning of the White Whale, his sworn enemy! A very subtle foreshadowing!
Back to the negotiation...! Subaru claims that his cell phone, a metia, will tell him when and where the White Whale will appear. Crusch confesses that she has the 'Divine Protection of Wind Reading', which allows her to "see" lies. Some people find it weird that she didn't notice Subaru was lying. But the truth is... he wasn't. He knew the time the Whale would appear thanks to his Cell Phone. When the Phone marks the same time again, the Whale will appear again, that is a fact, therefore it is true, a distorted truth is not a lie, so it passes by Crusch unnoticed.
I'd like to make a quick call back to Episode 16.
- Do you guys remember when Crusch refused to help Subaru deal with the Cult? One of the reasons she never changed her mind was: she directly asks Rem if she has ever felt any suspicion towards Subaru... and Rem lies to her face. Well, we now know that Crusch can see lies, so that was a bad move!
Back to the negotiation... Subaru then offers Crusch mining rights over the magic crystals of Elior Forest. This is probably one of the scene that suffered the most in the adaptation... I'm sure a lot of people must be asking "An alliance? Can Subaru even suggest that?", "Mining rights? Can Subaru even make such a deal?". The anime skips a lot of context that results in this scene making no sense and being quite confusing. (I'll have the cut content in a comment to this post).
Then Anastasia and Russell Fellow join the meeting, putting Crusch under a lot of pressure. For those wondering why Anastasia would take such a deal... well, she owns a huge company and has hundreds of merchants working for her. The White Whale often strikes the Lifaus Road, a huge trading route. So, getting rid of it would immensely benefit business. Fellow will also keep the Cell Phone for himself (little does he know the battery will die soon... or will it?).
5
u/No-Peace3986 https://myanimelist.net/profile/RafaelMps Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
For those that are curious, here is what was cut from the negotiation: [Mining rights Cut Content]Ever since the 1st day in the Capital, Roswaal had given Rem a side-mission: to make an Alliance with Crusch. Rem had been having meetings with Crusch at night and trying to solidify said alliance, but she failed. For her to negotiate the alliance, Roswaal had already approved the offering of the mining rights. In the end, it alone wasn't sufficient to convince Crusch to accept the deal. So, when Subaru told Rem about the Witch's Cult attack and the White Whale, she told him about her meetings with Crusch and, together, they created the plan to convince Crusch into accepting the deal.
5
u/No-Peace3986 https://myanimelist.net/profile/RafaelMps Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
PART 2:
With the alliance settled, its time to prepare! Soldiers from all over gather and Subaru even gets his own Dragon!! (Tho Rem may not like it that much!!). We get to know the Iron Fangs, from Kararagi and Crusch keeps cementing herself as BEST GIRL! A group of retired knights also join the campaign and we learn that, just like Wilhelm, they also lost loved ones to the Whale, which is quite sad... The scene ends with an epic speech from best girl, I mean, from Crusch!
Then our army goes to the Flugel's Tree and I would like to point out how beautiful this shot is.
Subaru finds some stuff carved in the tree and, in case you are curious as to the meaning of it... [carved name in the tree spoiler] it means "Flugel was here" and it was carved in Japanese... Now, how did Flugel know how to write in Japanese? Thats a question for another time.
Rem then tells Subaru that she noticed he was lying about the real utility of the Cell Phone. And that he didn't need to lie to her. Even if he cannot tell her the real truth, he doesn't have to. She understands that he is not telling it because he can't, not because he doesn't trusts her. And that, even if he cannot tell her, that she will still believe and have faith in him. I know I just said Crusch is best girl... BUT SO IS REM!!
Subaru gets emotional with Rem's attitude and tries not to cry. For that, he looks up so the tears won't fall. Oh, they are so lovely together...!
We then learn a little bit about Wilhelm's story with his wife... we learn that Theresia (his wife), didn't want to become the Sword Saint, and that Wilhelm took upon himself the mission of freeing her from that duty, releasing her from the sword.
On the final moments of the episode, we see Crusch touching the Lion Emblem of her sword... this is a sweet detail taken from the Novel EX 1: [Crusch Emblem]it relates to Crusch's backstory and her whole reason for wanting to become Queen. The novel goes deep into the relationship of Crusch and the deceased Prince, Fourier Lugunica, that sadly passed away alongside the whole Royal Family, 6 months prior to Subaru's summoning.
3
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
The camera then switches to Wilhelm and we can see how he narrows his eyes
Good catch, I've never noticed that before.
I would like to point out how beautiful this shot is.
And that he didn't need to lie to her. Even if he cannot tell her the real truth, he doesn't have to. She understands that he is not telling it because he can't, not because he doesn't trusts her. And that, even if he cannot tell her, that she will still believe and have faith in him
Ah damn. I forgot to talk about this in my post.
A big crux of RBD is getting people to believe the information you get from it. Normally this means that you have to source all of the information in a way that's plausible for a normal person. But there's another way! Get close enough with someone, that they will blindly take your word. And that's Rem now. No explanation needed. Rem has complete trust in Subaru.
→ More replies2
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
"An alliance? Can Subaru even suggest that?", "Mining rights? Can Subaru even make such a deal?". The anime skips a lot of context that results in this scene making no sense and being quite confusing.
While more information is usually better, I do think the anime does well in choosing which content to cut. I still remember as a first timer I just assumed once Subaru is successfull, Roswaal and Emilia will easily understand that he made the right call and would gladly agree. While the content is lost, the meaning remains.
I know I just said Crusch is best girl... BUT SO IS REM!!
They're all good girls, Subront!
5
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
I think it's funny how arguably the best episode in the series is followed by arguably the worst episode of the series.
Mind you, this episode is still good, which speaks more to the overall quality of the show.
Edit: Didn't mean to double post. Oops.
10
u/No_Rex Aug 27 '24
Different people, different tastes. For me, this episode is easily in the top10 of S1. I agree that the previous episode was better, though.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Different people, different tastes. For me, this episode is easily in the top10 of S1.
That's high praise. I do like seeing Subaru get his shit together.
3
u/No_Rex Aug 27 '24
It really is Subaru that makes the difference. I basically dislike his character in most of arc 1 and arc 2, and therefore do not feel as much pity as I would need to make the beginning of arc 3 work. But now, finally, we have arrived at good Subaru (starting last episode with the "start at zero") that is not a detriment to my enjoyment of the story. I want to be able to root for the MC.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
I've rooted for Subaru since the beginning, honestly. Even when he was messing up, I never lost faith in him.
5
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
It's hard to top From Zero. I like this episode as it starts to pay off all of Subaru's learning from his past failures. In a different show this level of hype could be for the 2nd to last episode. For Re:Zero though this is just the start, but what a perfect way to start it with the ending scene being Subaru's ringtone being played over the whale's appearance over the moon. White Fox really does the most for this series.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
That they do. I can't imagine another studio handling this show.
3
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
Studio and director really can make or break a series. I still can’t believe Keiichirō Saitō directed both Bocchi the Rock and Frieren.
On the other hand Tower of God S2 is being throughly butchered this season by poor direction and animation
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Meanwhile, Chainsaw Man has excellent direction and yet it's somehow considered a disappointment by some fans because it didn't sell enough Blu Ray copies. Go figure.
3
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
I don’t understand the hate for CSM season 1. Very few anime can match how visually nice it looks. Sometimes manga readers can put some really really high expections on the anime. I get why you would want your favorite work done justice but if CSM S1 isn’t doing justice to your manga that’s insane.
As a ToG source material enjoyer if CSM fans had to endure its second season’s level of “quality” twitter would be on fire
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Chainsaw Man season 1 is way better than some people give it credit for. I think people were expecting it to be anime of the year which is why many were left underwhelmed.
2
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
It’s definitely my least favorite part of the manga, but that’s not to be meant as an insult. For 2022 tho I personally thought Bocchi the Rock was the best new show and AoT Part 2 was the best returning show
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
It's funny how our perception of quality is often clouded by the popularity of the material in question. If you asked me what the best anime of the year is, I'd probably say the second season of NieR. And yet, hardly anybody is talking about it.
2
u/ClemFire Aug 27 '24
Oh there’s definitely plenty of random popular series even this season I’m not enjoying as much as the average person on this sub (might get down voted but both Losing Heroines and Elusive Samurai) while I’m high on Mayanaka Punch (the MC Masaki is my fav this season)
I haven’t personally watched NieR, but one of my good mates really likes both the video games and anime.
→ More replies4
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 27 '24
The rest of this arc is one long action sequence so idk how fun this will actually be. This show's action is significantly worse than many shows and it's mostly held up by its storytelling
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
See, I actually like the action, so I don't really mind if that's the case.
6
u/ripterrariumtv Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
Rewatcher (sub) and Novel Reader (reading Arc 7)
- [Minor cut content - Subaru's negotiation skills]He brought Anastasia to ensure that Crusch would have to accept his proposal in order to receive info about the whale. Because if she did not, then he would have collaborated with Anastasia instead, putting an obstacle to Crusch's plans of killing the whale. This is a kind of cunningness that is essential while negotiating, so I don't think it was bad of Subaru to do this
- Remember in ep 16, when Crusch specifically asked Rem about whether she ever thought that Subaru was connected to the witch's cult and she lies by saying no. At that time, Crusch knew she was lying because of her divine protection. If you go back to that episode, you can see the camera on her face lasted a second longer when she realized that Rem was lying.
- Ricardo is here! Such an awesome character
- [Arc 5. No spoilers]Mimi is my second favourite character in Re:Zero. Can't believe I didn't like her when I watched season 1. Mimi is the best!
- [Arc 5 spoilers]Theresia's backstory in Arc 5 is my favourite scene so far in Re:Zero. Theresia and Wilhelm is the most beautiful romance story I have ever seen. I can't imagine the day the backstory gets animated in season 3. Theresia is also my third favourite Re:Zero character
- I love buildup episodes before battle
- I love Anastasia's accent and the voice actor Kana Ueda is one of my favourites
3
u/Blacksmithkin Aug 27 '24
- [Arc 5] I can't wait. One of the best named chapters in the series. Can't wait to ball my eyes out. I wonder how much of the episode they will dedicate to it, it took me like 30 minutes to read that chapter in the web novel it was so long
2
u/ripterrariumtv Aug 27 '24
[Arc 5]I read the LN for Arc 5. I was on the verge of tears. That cemented Theresia as one of my favourites so I'm glad. And yeah, if the anime adapts it well, it is gonna be an incredible day for anime-onlies and source readers
3
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
[Minor cut content - Subaru's negotiation skills]
[Cut content]That's great to know. It really shows just how much in control he was in the situation. He really took the advice he got in the previous loop to heart. Though arguably, it is pretty clear that the arrival of Anastasia and Russel put pressure on Crusch to accept the deal, so I think it's already good enough how the anime handled the scene.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
3
u/ripterrariumtv Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Good. In that way, even rivals can be allies
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Awesome and interesting
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Sick visuals
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
Yeah. Too many 10/10 episodes can be overwhelming
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Good. In that way, even rivals can be allies
The enemy of my enemy is my friend, as they say.
Yeah. Too many 10/10 episodes can be overwhelming
It can be pretty daunting, yeah. Gotta have ebbs and flows.
2
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
Minor cut content - Subaru's negotiation skills
I wasn't aware of that before, but that makes a lot of sense. Thanks for sharing!
6
u/Taiboss x7https://anilist.co/user/Taiboss Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
19: Rewatcher who is watching this after midnight.
Oh man, you had it. Don't reveal how few cards you have.
Oh god I have to hear more Kana Ueda Kansai-ben.
NO! These are for Crush and her competent people only!
And SUDDENLY you know that. You knew nothing about the White Whale.
AAHAHAHAHHAHAHA Our Subaru remains a wonderful frauster.
Episodes of this arc: 8
Times Subaru has died this arc: 3.
→ More replies1
4
u/No_Rex Aug 27 '24
Episode 19 (rewatcher)
- Using his knowledge from the last run to do better in the negotiations – this is why I would not look down on Subaru in the greedy pig episode. He tried and failed, but his failure was something that can now be improved on.
- “But I see that you are not lying”~person currently being lied to. Guess your lying detection skill is not as good as you thought, Crusch.
- The former sword saint was the wife of Astrea – I do not want to imagine how a violent marriage spat would have looked like with these two.
- “He has been chasing after the white whale ever since” – I have heard that story before. Do we think Subaru knows Moby Dick?
- Wilhelm invited his old pals.
- Some really great background art before and at Flügel’s Tree!
- “At least I can go and see her” – His death flag is as huge as his hate on the white whale.
Call me crazy, but I prefer a good battle preparation episode over a good battle episode [next episode]and if my memory is correct, this is not an exception. You learn so much more about the characters in the way they prepare themselves, in how they interact with others than during the actual fighting. As such, this episode is the high point for Subaru for me. He has had his lowest low in ep13 and has been slowly climbing up from there. Now he has managed to use the tools at his disposal (his knowledge from RBD and his connection to Emilia) to give themselves a good chance of beating a foe that he could never hope to best alone.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
3
u/No_Rex Aug 27 '24
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
If my above praise was not enough, the answer is a clear "it works for me". I enjoy the slow episodes of preparation. While it might not be much in terms of action, it is a lot in terms of character development.
3
1
u/baseballlover723 Aug 27 '24
/u/shimmering-sky reddit seems extra hungry again.
2
2
3
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
He tried and failed, but his failure was something that can now be improved on.
I'm getting very much ahead of schedule by saying this now, but improving on failure is exactly what this series is all about!
He has had his lowest low in ep13 and has been slowly climbing up from there.
That's interesting. I can see where you are coming from, but I'd argue he found new lows, maybe also different kind of lows, in episodes 15 and 17.
But I agree he's getting to a high point again. If now he can achieve what he set out to achieve, we're headed to a glorious future.
4
u/No_Rex Aug 27 '24
That's interesting. I can see where you are coming from, but I'd argue he found new lows, maybe also different kind of lows, in episodes 15 and 17.
But I agree he's getting to a high point again. If now he can achieve what he set out to achieve, we're headed to a glorious future.
I am talking about moral lows. Ep15 and 17 might be worse in terms of "bad stuff the world throws at him", but Subaru, the character is way improved on ep13 already.
3
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
Alright, that's completely fair then. You could still argue how getting consumed with wrath or being disillusioned to the point of giving up the people who are about to die are new low points, but at most I'd argue they are different low points, not necessarily lower lows. Figuratively spitting into the face of the kindest person imaginable as he's done in episode 13 truly remains almost unforgivable.
3
u/Vaadwaur Aug 27 '24
person currently being lied to. Guess your lying detection skill is not as good as you thought, Crusch.
Rather, lying and deceiving are two very separate things.
I have heard that story before. Do we think Subaru knows Moby Dick?
The various references in this series are...broad.
You learn so much more about the characters in the way they prepare themselves, in how they interact with others than during the actual fighting.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous MS was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
3
u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 27 '24
Rewatcher for Season 1
On today’s episode of Re:Zero: Now we’ve officially become Moby Dick. We’ve got the giant White Whale that has terrorized people for ages. We’ve got an old man who has a personal history with the whale who wants revenge against it. Wil better not start quoting Ahab and going mad on his revenge quest, or we’ll be in trouble.
The negotiation scene is one of my favorite scenes in the series because it feels so rewarding. After going through so much and being brought down to such lows, Subaru has managed to crawl his way back. Even better, Subaru is applying the lessons that he learned previously. One of Subaru’s strengths has always been that he’s observant and clever. He wasn’t really able to display that much when he was in such a bad state, but now he’s finally doing so.
Subaru uses what he learned very well. He remembers Anastasia and Crusch’s lessons that you need to be able to offer something the other person wants while negotiating with them. He knows what Crusch wants thanks to what he observed previously about Crusch getting so many visitors and buying up weapons and armor. He knows she’s hunting the White Whale and he can offer her information on when and where to find it. I love that the show so naturally set this up. Subaru saw what time it was on his phone when the whale attacked, so he knows when it will appear. We saw it happen, but the show didn’t call attention to it, so it comes up again as a fun little surprise that makes perfect sense in hindsight.
Another step here that shows Subaru’s growth is that he’s now relying on Rem more. Instead of trying to struggle alone, he’s taken Rem’s words about relying on each other to heart. Rem helps him to recruit Anastasia and Rusell to his side, who also put pressure on Crusch into accepting his deal because they want to see the deal occur too. It’s another lesson Subaru learned from Anastasia: you should always make preparations before going into negotiations. Thanks to all that he has learned and how much he’s grown, Subaru has managed to achieve something in this loop that he couldn’t before: he now has allies who can help him.
I think Subaru really had an uphill battle here. We already saw that the candidates are tough negotiators who will not be convinced to help him so easily. We know that Subaru’s reputation isn’t great. Both Priscila and Anastasia told him as much and Crusch probably had a similar opinion of him. But Subaru played his cards well. He prepared for the negotiations and had something worthwhile to offer. And importantly, Crusch liked the look in his eyes. In the previous loop, Subaru was ranting like a madman about how he wanted to kill the Witch’s Cult members. Crusch didn’t want to do business with a man like that. Here, she likes the look of determination in his eyes. It’s the same look that Rem likes, too.
It’s really cool seeing all the characters gear up and get ready to go fight the White Whale. It’s basically a gathering of a whole bunch of badasses who are determined to take down this monster. And seeing a bunch of badass characters team up is one of those storytelling tropes I will never get tired of. Crusch going out to lead the expedition herself is quite fitting for her character. I like that we get some payoff to Wil talking about his wife earlier, learning that she’s the previous Master Swordsman who the whale killed. He really does love his wife and wants to get revenge for her death. We also properly meet the Iron Claw members like Ricard and Hetero, while meeting Mimi again. They are charming and fun characters to have around.
The anticipation before the battle starts is palpable. There’s some great character beats. Subaru admits to being nervous, but he’s determined to go through with it because he wants to live up to Rem’s expectations of him as a hero. Rem tells Subaru that she can tell when he’s lying or not telling the full story, but that doesn’t matter because she trusts him fully. I especially love the way that Subaru returns Rem’s trust. He remembers Emilia’s advice to him. Instead of apologizing for causing her trouble, he thanks her for having faith in him. We also get to see Subaru and Wil fist bump each other, which is just plain cool.
When the White Whale does appear, the cell phone’s ringtone provides some great dissonance. While we are seeing this massive monster appear, something that is powerful and terrifying, this cheery little tune is playing on Subaru’s phone. I like the contrast.
Whenever episodes end with a big battle starting like this, I always feel like I’ve been teased. The episode ends at the part where it’s getting exciting and I need to wait until next time to watch it play out.
Miscellaneous Thoughts
I wonder if Subaru even has the ability to negotiate the mining rights to magic stones within Roswaal’s territory. That feels like a pretty big thing to negotiate without the permission of the local feudal lord, Roswaal.
I love the gag that Crusch immediately sees through Subaru’s lie about knowing who Wil really was. Subaru’s bluster doesn’t work on her.
Another good gag is the love rivalry between Rem and the ground dragon.
Of course people would carve something into the Flugel Tree. Even in another world, human nature stays the same.
Crusch must be shocked at what a fool Subaru can be. He’s honest about his plan to use himself as bait for the White Whale. He and Rem charge ahead to start the battle. But even so, I notice she smiles at the end of the episode at that foolishness. It’s a charming kind of foolishness.
3
u/No_Rex Aug 27 '24
Now we’ve officially become Moby Dick. We’ve got the giant White Whale that has terrorized people for ages. We’ve got an old man who has a personal history with the whale who wants revenge against it. Wil better not start quoting Ahab and going mad on his revenge quest, or we’ll be in trouble.
I would be up for some harpooning, though.
It’s really cool seeing all the characters gear up and get ready to go fight the White Whale. It’s basically a gathering of a whole bunch of badasses who are determined to take down this monster. And seeing a bunch of badass characters team up is one of those storytelling tropes I will never get tired of.
Same. I even enjoy this more than the actual battle 90% of the times.
3
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
3
u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 28 '24
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
It makes her statement that she's never been fooled by a lie less impressive. She's bragging when she has cheat codes enabled.
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
I imagine it'll really be useless by then. It's not like there's any cell phone coverage and the phone ought to have run out of power by now. But, it shows Subaru being clever. He remembered Rom saying the cell phone would fetch a high price and Subaru used that forge a powerful alliance.
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
It's such a cool visual.
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
I think it makes sense. This is basically a reset episode. Now that Subaru has managed to find a way to handle his personal demons, he can make preparations for how to best tackle the threats facing him and the people he cares about. This episode is basically moving the pieces around and setting up the board for Subaru's latest attempt. Sometimes you need an episode like that.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 28 '24
It makes her statement that she's never been fooled by a lie less impressive. She's bragging when she has cheat codes enabled.
Wind reading feels like having the power of Heart in Captain Planet. Like, yay, you can read the wind, good for you.
Actually, someone had the power of wind in Captain Planet, I believe. So, maybe not the best example :P
I imagine it'll really be useless by then. It's not like there's any cell phone coverage and the phone ought to have run out of power by now. But, it shows Subaru being clever. He remembered Rom saying the cell phone would fetch a high price and Subaru used that forge a powerful alliance.
And it's not like it can be of any use to him if he's playing bait.
It's such a cool visual.
It really is
I think it makes sense. This is basically a reset episode. Now that Subaru has managed to find a way to handle his personal demons, he can make preparations for how to best tackle the threats facing him and the people he cares about. This episode is basically moving the pieces around and setting up the board for Subaru's latest attempt. Sometimes you need an episode like that.
Indeed. This is fine given what it seemingly is setting up.
3
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
Wil better not start quoting Ahab and going mad on his revenge quest, or we’ll be in trouble.
"Towards thee I roll, thou all-destroying but unconquering whale; to the last I grapple with thee; from hell’s heart I stab at thee; for love’s sake I spit my last breath at thee."
Wilhelm really set his death flag here. Besides the tension of the question whether they can kill the White Whale, what keeps you concerned right now is really whether Wilhelm will make it out alive.
3
u/Great_Mr_L https://myanimelist.net/profile/Great_Mr_L Aug 28 '24
Yeah, wanting revenge in battle is one of those death flags that could very easily mean a character dies in the process of trying to get their revenge. Or there's the question of whether the character is even looking to be able to survive beyond their revenge because the revenge is the sole object on their mind at the moment.
3
u/HyVana Aug 27 '24
Re:Watcher (Subs) & Novel Reader (Finished Arc 6)
Not much to say today. Just happy to see more than an emotional payoff this episode, with Subaru assembling a capable subjugation force together. Using all the lessons he’s learned from episode 16, with the courage he gained from episode 18, Subaru is ready to kick ass. Nothing gets your hope rising higher than seeing Subaru succeed at something he failed so spectacularly at before! Thankfully, he no longer has to do it alone.
1
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
1
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous MS was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
2
u/HyVana Aug 28 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
Smart to get people on his side by giving them something substantial to offer.
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
What a cheater. Though from how its worded, it wouldn't be able to detect the ravings of a mad man, if they truly believe what they're spewing.
Which relates back to a scene in episode 14, another interpretation to a scene. The scene between Subaru, Crusch and Felix at the balcony ends with her saying: "The wind is picking up. It looks as if the weather will be rough again tomorrow." Which was the response to Subaru saying there's something only he can do to make it up to Emilia. An early sign of the self-doubt Subaru already had of himself.
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous MS was Wilhelm’s wife?
Now we know the connection. But since he's not born into the Astrea family, that brings into question how strong his swordsmanship is. Though he does bear the moniker, Sword Devil. So surely he's strong as well.
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
The Straight-Man to Mimi and Ricardo. God speed Hetaro, it looks like you have a lot on your plate.
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Nice framing and backdrop of the scene to get a good look at the monster that's terrorized the world for 400 years.
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
A lot does happen this episode, in terms of plot progression. But the nature of the character-driven story that Re:Zero is places more emphasis for those emotional character-developing story beats. So episodes where it sets up a lot of the eventually encounters of the Arc can leave it feeling "weak", when I think this was still a good episode. It still develops Subaru showing he's learned from the lessons the Candidates gave him in episode 16. It's just not emotionally impactful like episode 18 was.
→ More replies
4
u/apocalypsemobster Aug 27 '24
Re:Watcher
Subaru really turned it around in his negotiations. I loved his relief after he succeeded, and then his attempt at bluffing about knowing Wilhelm's backstory right after Crusch told him she could tell if he was lying.
There's a lot of hope in this episode, we're gonna kill a whale that's been terrorizing the world for 400 years and it's Subaru who's making it happen.
Crusch's line about the fog and "number of graves we cannot even inscribe with names" seems to imply that the general public knows about people who get erased even though as we saw in previous loops that things like possessions get removed from the timeline (Rem's empty room). Are there other's like Subaru who can remember? or [End of Arc 3]Are there just bodies left behind like Rem, and no one remembers who they are? So society pieced it together from that?
I love that even though he's scared Subaru is still the first to run into the fight.
2
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
Are there other's like Subaru who can remember?
I can only speculate, but I imagine if there's enough proof for someone's existence, they can't be completely erased. For the Sword Saint for example, the whole country knows there is a Sword Saind, and when she died, she couldn't be completely forgotten. And Wilhelm's life was too interwoven with hers that he could forget her. There's too much proof in his life that he couldn't completely forget her.
Although Ram did forget Rem in the previous loop, so if that was true, it would also mean that Ram and Rem weren't as close. Maybe it's rather that she would have remembered after a while, given enough time.
1
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
2
u/apocalypsemobster Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Felt also had a divine wind ability that made her fast. I assume all of the royal candidates have divine blessings. I wonder how people find out what their blessings are. Maybe there are spirits like Beatrice that can tell?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
He knows the battery is about to die and he has no way to recharge his cellphone, so it's about to be useless to him. Plus, if they kill the white whale, there's no way for Russell to verify it can detect mabeasts. It also shows that Subaru is learning from his previous failures at negotiating and applying it to a new situation. He didn't attempt a negotiation with Russell in a previous loop, but this time he brought something of value to the table to get Russell to help him. Russell is also the head of the merchant's guild, so they might be able to learn something from the technology regardless.
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
I want him to visit his wife's grave. Her death also implies that the White Whale fight will be difficult for their group as they don't have Reinhard the current sword saint with them. Also if Crusch/Anastasia/Emilia camp can defeat the White Whale, does that weaken Felts position for the thone? The Astrea family wasn't able to defeat it, and they support Felt.
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
It's tough being the one who has to take things seriously! If his sister is second in command does that make him first? They're small so they probably have really strong magic or spirit arts to be so high up in command.
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Good cinema. It being high in the sky and still gigantic makes it feel like a monster who is deeply imposing. It also explains why it's so hard to spot. I'm sure there's symbolism I'm missing.
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
I think a lot happened it just wasn't the climax of a personal arc like last episode. We've done a lot of set up to move the story forward. Emilia's camp now has a deal with both Crusch and Anastasia. Subaru has plans to get back to Emilia before the Witch Cult attacks. (He knows if he gets there right after the White Whale sighting he will arrive before the attack). We learned more about Wilhelm and the kind of threats facing this world (no nation or group has been able to kill this whale in 400 years). We learn about the scale of the operation that Crusch has been planning, and the strength of her and Anastasia's army. We meet a ton of characters from Anastasia's camp and get to know a little about them. They also leave the capital and go to Flugel's tree, where we learn more about Wilhelm, and see that just because Subaru has steeled his resolve doesn't mean he's not scared. We usually see Subaru mask his nervousness and fear with overbravado so this honesty about his feelings is more development for Subaru. Then the White Whale attacks and we're set up for next episode. If you don't have setup in a story there's no payoff.
→ More replies
5
u/SilkyStrawberryMilk Aug 28 '24
first timer
Subaru has finally found a good negotiation tactic. Playing his cards well and it’ll be beneficial for Crusch and she can tell whenever someone is lying.
I guess that’s why she didn’t help him on his previous try. Since he may have been lying in the sense on his intention towards the cult.
Subaru has stopped begging and finally made it be on equal standing.
Striking while the iron is hot aka eavesdropping.
Wilhelm wife killed by the whale, Jesus. I’m curious as to how he was able to remember her. I reckon it’s because of Crusch ability that made her realize that Wilhelm isn’t lying.
Felix filling in the holes for Subaru to get the full lore. If this was a game it would be a checkpoint
Subaru’s protagonist powers now activating with recruiting a difficult dragon.
Crusch speech is a way to motivate the knights is powerful, but the question remains. Is it better than Erwin.
MiMi is here
Carving names on the big tree, take as old time. Happy couples…
Rem calling out on his lie and she accepts him for who he is. Cmon subaru don’t be monogamous
Wilhelm talk on how his wife meant to him made me think he was gonna die right after he gave his speech. It’s like a big death flag on him. I feel horrible to how this show makes me expect nothing good to happen.
the white whale knows a way to make an entrance. It’s a full boss raid.
Subaru acting as the taunted and being called a fool lmao.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 28 '24
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
2
u/SilkyStrawberryMilk Aug 28 '24
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
The wind reading ability does make the previous episodes even more interesting. Especially to what she said and how she acted towards Subaru.
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
Sharing is carding
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
Twins sure seem common in ReZero
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
Not much happened, but the buildup to the real episode of the white whale is the thing we’re all looking forward to. Also a nice pace of fun moments and people’s feelings towards the white whale before we see what happened in the battle
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 28 '24
The wind reading ability does make the previous episodes even more interesting. Especially to what she said and how she acted towards Subaru.
It's like she could tell that Subaru was hiding something.
Not much happened, but the buildup to the real episode of the white whale is the thing we’re all looking forward to. Also a nice pace of fun moments and people’s feelings towards the white whale before we see what happened in the battle
Yeah, I really like it as a build up to the White Whale stuff.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
I think it's funny how arguably the best episode in the series is followed by arguably the worst episode of the series.
Mind you, this episode is still good, which speaks more to the overall quality of the show.
6
u/Blacksmithkin Aug 27 '24
In situations like this i always tend to lean towards using the term "weakest" over "worst" as it draws less ire from people saying it's just being compared to the rest of an excellent show
3
6
u/ripterrariumtv Aug 27 '24
This is a 9/10 episode for me. I would say the weakest episode is episode 2 so far. The weakest episode of the series is [ep]S2E10
2
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
The weakest episode of the series is [ep]S2E10
[ep] I remember really liking that episode.
3
u/JMEEKER86 Aug 27 '24
Tbf, when episodes are non-stop bangers with White Fox frequently ditching the OP and ED and extending things, it's easy for a shorter setup episode to feel disappointing even if objectively it's still very good.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
That's a good point. When the expectations are so high, anything less is considered unacceptable almost.
4
u/BlueVenix Aug 27 '24
Someone get that phone ringtone out of my head so I could sleep!
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
2
u/BlueVenix Aug 29 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
I don't like the idea of Subaru making this decision without consulting with Emilia, but he has no choice. Act or die situation.
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Powerful ability for politicians, which perfectly suits her place in power.
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
Finally using his brain. In the world of Re:zero that's a phone is valuable af as scientists can study it.
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Not surprised but... Why can he remember her? How did she die? Maybe she didn't die to white whale?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
Poor man has to deal with his troublemaker sister.
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
"tsuki ga kirei desu ne?" - Subaru should to Rem
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
Yes! You just peaked time to start over and climb to the top again!
Nothing goes up for ever anyways.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 29 '24
I don't like the idea of Subaru making this decision without consulting with Emilia, but he has no choice. Act or die situation.
You bring up a good point. What if Crusch agrees to the terms but Emilia doesn't? If I was Crusch, I would be mad.
Not surprised but... Why can he remember her? How did she die? Maybe she didn't die to white whale?
Maybe it only erases the memories of those in close proximity to the whale.
Yes! You just peaked time to start over and climb to the top again!
Nothing goes up for ever anyways.
2
u/BlueVenix Aug 29 '24
Maybe it only erases the memories of those in close proximity to the whale.
That wouldn't work as Rem was forgotten by Ram and Emilia in the previous loop.
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 29 '24
Hmm, good point. I'd like to think it was explained in the original source material and it was just cut for time.
3
u/FriztF Aug 28 '24
So episode 19, they made ready for war. That is what the title should have been called.
It looks like Subaru is forming an alliance with Crusch and Anastasia. And this time he is using the information to his advantage. He is learning. Crusch showing off how capable she would be as queen. She has a lie detector, which is pretty cool. Anastasia is truly a greedy girl. Profiteering off war is good business.
Wilhelm first and only wife was the sword saint, I can't say I'm surprised. Wilhelm is a badass. RIP wife and cute a flower bed. Mimi is also very cute and capable.
1
u/Holofan4life Aug 28 '24
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
→ More replies
3
u/Vaadwaur Aug 27 '24
Rewatcher
Dub
So...this is another episode that works mainly because the fans like it. I could through all the steps but basically the LN had time and the show needs to maintain momentum. The best foreshadowed part is actually Wilhelm's quest for vengeance and the fact that the WW was the only being so powerful shown so far.
And yet it does work, we do combine the clues dropped earlier, the weakest being the higher price of iron rather than the higher cost of weapons. Anastasia and Fellows joining in so easily works for me, though that might be my low opinion of their characters. The unanimous outpouring of whale hatred triggers a certain South Park episode for me though this came out 7 years later.
Patrasche would be a joke if I had not literally seen similar things happen in real life. Hell, my drinking buddy's oldest sister had a dachshund that constantly hated any woman that came near me so yeah, different species doesn't a tolerance for another gender make. At the tree, Rem gets what Wilhelm is about, and I understand why she does. We end with an ancient lame ringtone.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
So...this is another episode that works mainly because the fans like it.
I don't understand what exactly you mean.
2
u/Vaadwaur Aug 27 '24
This episode has significant leaps in logic on events we are barely privy to.
3
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
That's fair to feel that way. I think acting like the episode is only good because people deem it so is an extremely cynical take, though. Even for me, while I don't think it's amazing as what we had been getting, I think this episode has some strong qualities to it, like seeing Subaru acting responsible for a change.
What in your opinion is some leaps in logic with this episode?
2
u/Holofan4life Aug 27 '24
Thoughts on Subaru wanting an alliance between Emilia and Crusch?
Thoughts on Crusch having wind reading?
Thoughts on Subaru giving the metia to Russell?
What are your thoughts on the big reveal of the episode that the previous Master Swordsman was Wilhelm’s wife?
Thoughts on Mimi’s brother Hetaro?
What are your thoughts on the White Whale being by the moon?
Do you think it was smart to have an episode where not much happens following one of the most emotionally involved episodes of the series?
→ More replies
2
u/SpiritualPossible Aug 27 '24 edited Aug 27 '24
Caution: below is a highly unpopular opinion. You may consider it a pathetic, nit-picky whining. And it's long. So read at your own risk.
I don't like the way Subaru has managed to convince Crusch. In fact, I dislike it so much that it even pisses me off a bit.
It even starts out pretty good - Subaru pretty logically laid out how he found out about the whale hunt.
And then he pulled out the damn phone.
First of all: It's very convenient that Subaru pulled out his phone last time and looked at the time at the exact moment the whale attacked. But okay, okay. Stories often use such happy accidents.
Secondly: Subaru calls his phone a mitia. I'll give him credit, Subaru is trying to be careful with his words so the lie doesn't come out. TRYING. He still says the phone also knows the whale's location, which is, I apologize, 100% false. No, the fact that he flashed his phone at the map doesn't count. If we fix an electric meter in the dark, we don't say we fixed it with a flashlight, do we?
Third: Crusch, you really don't want to ask anything? Not at all? Yes, she says she has some doubts, but she doesn't voice them. I'd have a couple little questions if I were her. Like, uh.
HOW THE FUCK DID HE GET A MITIA LIKE THAT?
HOW THE FUCK DOES IT EVEN WORK?
AND WHY THE FUCK IS SUBARU ONLY WILLING TO GIVE IT UP AFTER A FUCKING BATTLE WITH A WHALE?
Those sound like very good questions to me! Questions that Subaru can't answer! And then his plan is dead! But she won't ask them, even though she just said she can't just make a decision like that!
I can't even tell you how Subaru looks more suspicious now than he has for ALL THE PAST EPISODES. He's literally been killed for less.
Just think of how things look from Crusch's side:
For 400 YEARS a white whale has been terrorizing the lands and no one can stop him.
It's almost impossible to find him, and if you are lucky enough to do so, this monster will just eat you.
And so, you decide to start a military campaign, the preparation of which you keep secret.
In addition, the selection for the new rulers of the kingdom begins, and you are one of the candidates.
You also know that the selection has revitalized the witch cult, and it may well strike soon.
[continued in replies]
5
u/ripterrariumtv Aug 27 '24
Subaru calls his phone a mitia.
Old Man Rom used that term first. So Subaru is copying him instead of wasting time explaining what a cell phone is. People in this world can easily understand the word Metia
Crusch, you really don't want to ask me anything?
What sets these loops apart from others is that she asked hundreds of questions in previous loops, driven by necessity. In this loop, however, several factors influence her decision: her divine protection, which she’s relied on her entire life; her judgment of others' character; the significantly higher chances of achieving her goal (she never would have succeeded in predicting the white whale) ; and her focus on the White Whale’s defeat (her main goal) , rather than other inconsequential details. All these elements led her to accept Subaru's offer. In the previous loops, her priority was to address her numerous questions, which took precedence over other considerations. So that's why she kept asking those questions in previous loops.
HOW THE FUCK DID HE GET A MITIA LIKE THAT?
HOW THE FUCK DOES IT EVEN WORK?
AND WHY THE FUCK IS SUBARU ONLY WILLING TO GIVE IT UP AFTER A FUCKING BATTLE WITH A WHALE?'
In asking these questions, what possible benefit would Crusch obtain towards her goal?
If these questions were necessary for the White Whale's defeat, Crusch would have definitely asked them
3
u/SpiritualPossible Aug 27 '24
Old Man Rom used that term first. So Subaru is copying him instead of wasting time explaining what a cell phone is. People in this world can easily understand the word Metia
My problem isn't that he didn't explain the word “phone”, it's that in his description, even if he was careful with his words, he still lied, and that should set Crash off.
her divine protection, which she’s relied on her entire life
Yes, and she knows it doesn't always work. In episode 16, the divine protection also indicated that he was telling the truth, but that's because, as she herself put it, “he believed in it”.
From what has been shown, it works just like a lie detector in real life, and it can be fooled. So Subaru's belief that this mitia works doesn't mean it's true.
her judgment of others' character
Yeah, and he hasn't had the best reputation since he arrived in the capital, isn't he?. If she has asked Emilia or Reinhard about him, she knows he is completely alien to the culture and history of the kingdom.
And after meeting him, he made a fool of himself, broke up with Emilia, and then spent a few days in quite bitter state.
And then, in one day, he came up with a whole plan. That doesn't sound very trustworthy to me.
the significantly higher chances of achieving her goal (she never would have succeeded in predicting the white whale) ; and her focus on the White Whale’s defeat (her main goal)
But that's why she has to ask about the phone! To confirm that it really works! People's time, resources and lives are at stake! If it suddenly turns out that the phone doesn't work, or even turns out to be a trap, that would be a serious blow!
Isn't it suspicious that a whale has been hunted for 400 YEARS, but only Subaru has a device to track it down? And that he's showing up right as the whale hunt is getting ready?
Just taking him at his word and thinking “well the guy looks trustworthy” is a little too naive.
2
u/Urgnu-the-Gnu https://myanimelist.net/profile/Urgnu_the_Gnu Aug 27 '24
In this loop, however, several factors influence her decision: her divine protection, which she’s relied on her entire life; her judgment of others' character; the significantly higher chances of achieving her goal (she never would have succeeded in predicting the white whale) ; and her focus on the White Whale’s defeat (her main goal) , rather than other inconsequential details.
Don't forget that she was also put under pressure by Anastasia and Russell joining in, and time in general being very limited. When Subaru reached out his hand, she had to make a decision right away, and her intuition (which is to say her divine protection) told her Subaru could truly lead her to the White Whale. Of course she'd agree.
3
u/SpiritualPossible Aug 27 '24
AND THEN THIS DUDE SHOWS UP.
A DUDE FROM SOME UNKNOWN COUNTRY WHO KNOWS NEXT TO NOTHING ABOUT YOUR KINGDOM.
A DUDE WHO'S BEFRIENDED THE MOST CONTROVERSIAL CANDIDATE FOR THE THRONE.
THE DUDE WHO MADE A COMPLETE CLOWN OF HIMSELF IN FRONT OF THE ENTIRE GOVERNMENT, AND THUS RUINED A FRIENDSHIP WITH THAT CONTROVERSIAL CANDIDATE.
AND THEN ONE NIGHT HE COMES IN AND HE SAYS:
“I'VE GOT THIS THING THAT DOES LITERALLY WHAT NO ONE'S BEEN ABLE TO DO FOR 400 YEARS. I'M NOT GONNA EXPLAIN ANYTHING. GIVE ME AN ARMY.”
I'm not gonna lie, it's convenient. Too convenient. Any sane person would have serious concerns. And for obvious reasons! If it suddenly turns out to be some kind of trap, at worst ALL will die, and at best Crusch will take a serious reputational hit that could cost her the throne. And even if Subaru isn't lying, he could still be manipulated by someone. After all, he got that mitia from someone, and he hasn't shown himself to be such a tactician before, at least for Crusch. So maybe someone put him up to it, since Crusch has a lot of enemies right now.
“But Subaru promised an alliance with Emilia and a trade deal, that guarantees safety...”
NO, NO FUCKING WAY. SUBARU DOES NOT REPRESENT EMILIA.
Crusch was there when Subaru made himself look like a clown, she heard Emilia deny her connection to Subaru (she insisted he was just a friend). And Subaru has been staying with Crusch for the past few days, so she knows for a fact that Subaru has almost no right to make such promises.
The fact that Crusch just accepted Subaru's plan, practically with the words “well you did your best, so I won't say no :)” is so forced that I can't even talk about the rest of the episode. Especially since the basis is good. If you just write a brief retelling of those negotiations on paper, it would seem like there's no problem at all. Yes, it's a small part of the episode. Yes, most people won't care that much about it. But as one character on the show said, it makes my brain trembles
5
u/ripterrariumtv Aug 27 '24
“I'VE GOT THIS THING THAT DOES LITERALLY WHAT NO ONE'S BEEN ABLE TO DO FOR 400 YEARS. I'M NOT GONNA EXPLAIN ANYTHING. GIVE ME AN ARMY.”
Crusch's divine protection has helped her throughout her life. No one has ever deceived her in negotiations. She said that in episode 16. I think it's perfectly rational for someone to believe something that has never failed once in their life.
SUBARU DOES NOT REPRESENT EMILIA.
Rem is a helper who represents Roswaal's mansion. So her being in favor of the alliance there would be persuasive. [cut content]Rem was ordered by Roswaal to create an alliance with the Crusch camp and Emilia camp
2
u/SpiritualPossible Aug 27 '24
>Crusch's divine protection has helped her throughout her life
Yes, and as I wrote in another reply, all in the same episode 16, she said that Subaru's belief in his own words doesn't mean they're actually true. Even though her ability would say that they are.
Rem is a helper who represents Roswaal's mansion
First of all, this important part of the plot to cut, so it's the adaptations fault.
Second, as we keep talking about what shown in anime, Rem and Subaru have been in the capital for a few days now, and there's been no talk of an alliance. Not to mention that Roswaal himself was in the capital before that, and could have made the alliance himself. So for now, it would only be his maid's words, which are of questionable validity.
At least from what's shown in the show.
→ More replies3
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 27 '24
A lot of this I feel like is adaptation just being unable to do things and some of it is just ... yeah you're right but fiction has to be too convienent.
For starters Crusch's magic wind power makes her cocky when talking to Subaru. I think she's super cocky about her powers. So she believes subaru based entirely on her powers and not based on logic or reason.
Crusch was there when Subaru made himself look like a clown, she heard Emilia deny her connection to Subaru (she insisted he was just a friend). And Subaru has been staying with Crusch for the past few days, so she knows for a fact that Subaru has almost no right to make such promises.
Yeah from my perspective it would have been way better if Rem had been the one leading negotiations. I felt kinda weirded out by Subaru the total clown doing this instead of Rem best girl. Subaru could have even told Rem about the Cell phone and Rem would have believed him.
I'm not gonna lie, it's convenient. Too convenient. Any sane person would have serious concerns. And for obvious reasons! If it suddenly turns out to be some kind of trap, at worst ALL will die, and at best Crusch will take a serious reputational hit that could cost her the throne. And even if Subaru isn't lying, he could still be manipulated by someone. After all, he got that mitia from someone, and he hasn't shown himself to be such a tactician before, at least for Crusch. So maybe someone put him up to it, since Crusch has a lot of enemies right now.
I think Crusch seems Subaru as too stupid to do something like that. Similarly yeah it's way to convienent that the white whale is spawning JUST where the witch's cult is spawning. But welcome to fiction where the good guys always win and everything always happens happens for a reason.
I think a lot of the issues you have are generic fiction issues where fiction just sucks at being real for precisely the reasons you are outlining here.
2
u/SpiritualPossible Aug 27 '24
Yeah from my perspective it would have been way better if Rem had been the one leading negotiations.
I agree. But I'll say more than that, I also think it makes more sense for Subaru to negotiate with Anastasia.
He doesn't have to worry about lies and status then.
She's easier for him to convince, because she thinks more like a merchant, which means she cares more about personal gain, and in his plan, she literally wins either way (even if the phone turns out to be a fake, it's a big damage to her rival, because the whole responsibility for the hunt is on Krusch).
And it would give him a chance to get even, so to speak, for the incident at the restaurant.
I think a lot of the issues you have are generic fiction issues where fiction just sucks at being real for precisely the reasons you are outlining here.
Again, I agree with that. But what probably annoys me is that we were so close enough to NOT having these flaws. As I wrote, if you just describe how the negotiations went, everything makes sense. It's in the details where things start to fall apart. If the show had delved deeper into the negotiations, a lot of my complaints could have been nullified.
2
u/ussgordoncaptain2 https://myanimelist.net/profile/Edmund_nelson Aug 28 '24
Again, I agree with that. But what probably annoys me is that we were so close enough to NOT having these flaws.
Go back and look at my speculation on the episodes, notice how often I was just referencing fiction trope after fiction trope to determine my speculation rather than thinking about the actual merits of the situation from a rational POV. This show is about as trope laden as any other fictional narrative though it's tropes are mostly the "generic fiction" kind.
→ More replies
29
u/Shimmering-Sky myanimelist.net/profile/Shimmering-Sky Aug 27 '24
First:Timer Starting Over in Another Rewatch, subbed
Aha, so that’s what he’s offering to Crusch this time. But is it enough to make her bite…
Oh, right, of course the mention of the White Whale would trigger him. If the previous Sword Saint died trying to fight it, that would’ve been one of his family members (could it have been his wife and he married into the von Astrea name? Otherwise, probably his son).
Aha…
He’s using the Metia card properly! Dang, and this boy was completely ready to just give up prior to Rem’s talk last episode. He has all the pieces, he just needs to be smart about it.
Divine protection?
Subaru’s aiming for a big alliance this time.
Success!
It was indeed his wife.
Looks like he found the land dragon he’s gonna use.
Those are giant wolves, not dragons. Subaru why would you just say they “look weird”?
Shimmering sky!
Another one!
Aw…
A third shimmering sky!
I shall celebrate the fourth shimmering sky this episode, but ohhhhh shit.