With the conclusion of the Re:Zero season 3 anime, many viewers are left pondering the enigmatic identity of Al. This character first made his entrance as Priscilla’s Knight during the Return to the Royal Capital Arc. Initially perceived as a minor figure, various clues within the anime suggest a deeper significance to his role.
In season 3, during a confrontation with Capella Emerada Lugunica, Al hinted at a potential parallel with Natsuki Subaru by referencing phrases indicating he might possess the ability to resurrect at certain checkpoints after death. This raises the intriguing question: could Al also be from Earth?
Note: This article contains spoilers from the Re:Zero light novel.
Al’s Japanese Origin: A Link to Natsuki Subaru
While the series has kept several details under wraps, Aldebaran, commonly referred to as Al, shares an intriguing connection with Natsuki Subaru: both were summoned to this fantastical world from Japan. However, their timelines differ; Al was transported approximately 18 years prior to Subaru’s arrival, which occurred around a year ago.
Interestingly, this information was intended to remain hidden from anime-only fans, a creative choice made by the show’s producers. The relevant scene was intentionally excluded from the anime’s inaugural season.
The details about Al’s origins surfaced in Re:Zero ~Starting Break Time From Zero~ Season 3, episode 6, through a casual dialogue involving Subaru, Beatrice, and Al. This exchange casually solidified Al’s role in the broader narrative.
An additional removed scene further complicates Al’s backstory. In this particular moment, he mistook Rem for her sister, Ram, and later inquired about Ram’s status. His reaction upon learning that Ram was alive raised further questions, hinting at a knowledge that surpasses others in the storyline.
While Rem did query Al on how he knew her sister, he offered no response, leaving a veil of mystery surrounding his true understanding of the situation. The light novel has yet to provide answers, but it is clear that Al has connections to the Witch Cult and the Witches of Sin, adding to the intrigue of his character.
According to the author, Tappei Nagatsuki, Al is poised to play a crucial role in the unfolding saga of Re:Zero. Questions surrounding his masked identity and the significance of his name are slated for exploration in future installments. This revelation is anticipated to uncover one of the series’ three pivotal mysteries.
As we await further developments, the anticipation for Al’s true identity continues to build, promising to enhance the rich tapestry of the Re:Zero universe.