Why Did Rem Kill Subaru in Re:Zero at Roswaal's Mansion?

One of the most intense and pivotal moments in Re:Zero: Starting Life in Another World occurs when Rem, the protagonist's companion and an adept, decides to kill Subaru during his second life at Roswaal's mansion. This decision is driven by a complex interplay of circumstances, emotions, and misunderstandings. Let's delve into the reasons behind this tragic event and explore its impact on the series.

A Tragic Incident in Re:Zero

In Re:Zero: Starting Life in Another World, Rem decides to kill Subaru during his second life at Roswaal's mansion. This action is primarily motivated by a combination of misunderstandings and the dire circumstances surrounding the characters. Subaru, who was in a vulnerable state due to a recent traumatic event, is cursed by the Witch of Envy, Satella, which manifests as a dangerous threat to those around him.

Subaru’s Vulnerability and the Cursed Threat

Subaru's emotional and physical state at that time is crucial in understanding Rem's decision. After surviving his first death, Subaru is deeply scarred and in need of help. However, his desperate attempts to seek assistance are misinterpreted by Rem. She, who is deeply protective of her sister Ram and the people she cares about, perceives his actions as a potential danger. Rem's protective instincts are heightened by the fact that she is a part of an organization dedicated to protecting against the threats posed by the Witch of Envy.

The Role of Cursed Scent and Misunderstandings

An additional factor in Rem's decision is the presence of a cursed scent on Subaru, which Rem associates with the Witch of Envy. To Rem, the miasma from Satella is a clear indicator that Subaru is a member of the witch cult and, therefore, an enemy. This scent led her to believe that he posed a threat to her loved ones and the people living in the mansion.

The cursed scent on Subaru arose from his encounter with Satella, who, in her desperation, attempted to infect others with her curse. It is a sign that he was exposed to her magic, making him a potential carrier and threat. In Rem's mind, the only way to ensure safety is to neutralize this threat, which she does by eliminating Subaru.

The Shocking Truth and Potential Misunderstandings

The reveal that Rem herself was the one who killed Subaru comes as a shock to the audience. This revelation is even more poignant because of the touching moment shared by Rem and Subaru in Earlham Village on the very same day. This shared experience should have built trust and understanding, but the cursed scent and the potential threat it represented severed any such connection.

Furthermore, Subaru's knowledge of certain secrets and his perceived mannerisms were seen as suspicious by Rem. She feared that his knowledge of these secrets could be used against him and the mansion. Additionally, the tragic loss of Ram and her family at the hands of the Witch of Envy's cult strengthens Rem's resolve to protect her loved ones at all costs.

Themes of Misunderstanding and Moral Dilemmas

The incident with Subaru highlights the themes of misunderstanding and the complexity of relationships in Re:Zero. Characters often face moral dilemmas and make decisions based on incomplete information. The tragic separation between Rem and Subaru underscores the difficulties in building trust and understanding in a world where danger looms around every corner.

This event serves as a turning point in the series, illustrating the harsh realities of a world where trust is hard-won and maintained with great caution. The loss of Subaru is not just a personal tragedy but also a testament to the challenging moral and emotional landscapes that the characters must navigate throughout the series.

Further Insights into Subaru's Cursed Scent

It is worth noting that the cursed scent on Subaru adds an extra layer of complexity to the story. Even though it signifies a potential threat, it also raises questions about how Subaru became tainted by the Witch of Envy's curse. This could be due to his close proximity to Satella during her attempts to spread her curse or an unintended encounter. The nature of the curse and its implications for Subaru's character development and the overall narrative are intriguing and warrant further exploration in future discussions.

Conclusion

In the end, the decision to kill Subaru, driven by a combination of misunderstandings and the perceived threat of the cursed scent, highlights the deeply rooted fears and protective instincts of Rem. It also underscores the complex moral and emotional challenges faced by the characters in Re:Zero. The revelation that Rem was behind Subaru's death adds another layer of depth to the narrative, making it a pivotal and tragic moment in the anime series.