Re:ZERO Season 3 Episode 1 Recap: A New Journey Begins in Priestella

The long-awaited return of Season 3 kicks off with a thrilling start! After a year of training, Subaru Natsuki returns to face new challenges alongside Emilia as the Royal Selection heats up. Episode 1 of Season 3 sets the stage for a fresh journey filled with suspense, new characters, and the promise of uncovering long-lost secrets.

Subaru’s Secret Training

We find Subaru stronger than ever after dedicating himself to a year of intense training, courtesy of a "secret training facility" provided by Roswaal L. Mathers. Subaru has been working hard, pushing his body to become more athletic and resilient, all for the sake of Emilia’s royal ambitions. As he focuses on helping her win the Royal Selection, Subaru's physical growth highlights his determination, but it’s clear that emotional and mental hurdles still lie ahead.

A Surprising Visitor & A New Mission

Just as Subaru’s training is interrupted by a surprise visit from Joshua Juukulius (Julius’ younger brother and an ardent fan), the story takes an interesting twist. Joshua brings Emilia an irresistible offer from the Anastasia Camp: if she attends a party in the city of Priestella, Anastasia will reveal the location of a magic crystal that could bring back Puck, Emilia’s long-absent spirit partner.

This is too good to pass up. With renewed hope, Subaru, Emilia, Beatrice, Otto, and Garfiel set off for Priestella. But not before Subaru stops by Rem’s bedside, a fan-favorite character who remains in a deep slumber, adding a layer of emotional weight to Subaru’s ongoing struggles.

The Changing Tide of the Royal Selection

As they journey to Priestella, Otto takes the opportunity to update Emilia on the current state of the Royal Selection. It has been a year since the last events, and much has changed. Crusch Kursten, once a front-runner, has lost her memories, making her position vulnerable. Meanwhile, Emilia, Priscilla, and Felt have gained momentum. Emilia’s recent heroic deeds, including her role in defeating the White Whale and a Sin Archbishop, have earned her growing support.

Priscilla, with her captivating charm and new title as the “Sun Princess,” is also becoming more popular. Felt, on the other hand, is rallying the rougher elements of society, creating a powerful grassroots movement. But Anastasia Hoshin, supported by the wealthy merchants of the Hoshin Company, remains a formidable contender. As Otto warns, becoming too indebted to Anastasia’s camp could spell trouble, but the promise of Puck’s return pushes the group forward.

Arriving in Priestella: A City with Secrets

Priestella, the Watergate City, is a beautifully designed metropolis built around intricate canals. However, its labyrinthine infrastructure holds a mysterious past — it was originally constructed as a trap, though no one remembers what it was meant to ensnare. The city’s Japanese-inspired aesthetic, with its charming inns and unique dishes, offers a momentary respite from the tense royal politics. But before long, the group’s mission to find the magic crystal takes center stage.

Subaru and Beatrice’s exploration of the city introduces them to Liliana, a traveling bard whose eccentric songs win Subaru over. Through Liliana, Subaru gets closer to finding the Songstress Maniac, the key to the crystal, but their first attempt to retrieve it is unsuccessful. Yet, Emilia’s resolve remains strong, setting up future attempts to secure the crystal.

A Tense Gathering & The Sin Archbishop of Wrath

The episode culminates in a dramatic and tension-filled gathering of the Royal Selection candidates. The inn where they’re staying becomes the backdrop for a fraught reunion between Wilhelm and his estranged family, with emotions running high as Wilhelm’s son, Heinkel, taunts Reinhard over their family’s legacy. Before anything can be resolved, Priscilla crashes the meeting, adding chaos and drama to an already tense situation.

But the real shock comes when Subaru, Beatrice, and Emilia stumble upon a disturbing scene: Sirius Romanée-Conti, the Sin Archbishop of Wrath, appears at the top of a bell tower, holding the crowd under her spell. With emotions running wild, Subaru realizes the sinister power of Sirius, whose presence echoes that of Petelgeuse, one of the most notorious villains in the series. As chaos ensues, Subaru is forced to "reset" once again, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.

Final Thoughts

Season 3 Episode 1 is a strong return to the world of Subaru Natsuki. With its blend of political intrigue, emotional depth, and high-stakes action, the episode sets up a new chapter filled with twists and revelations. The introduction of new characters, the evolving Royal Selection, and the ominous appearance of Sirius Romanée-Conti promise that this season will be one of the most intense yet. Fans of the series are sure to be hooked as Subaru and Emilia navigate the treacherous waters of Priestella and beyond.