Subaru’s Imperial Knight Journey: What Happens Next?Really, guys, has anyone ever stopped to truly consider the burning question that pops into every Re:Zero fan’s head at some point: does Subaru become an Imperial Knight ? It’s a fascinating thought, isn’t it? Our beloved Natsuki Subaru, the guy who started out as a complete NEET from another world, tossed into a fantasy realm with only his wits, his tracksuit, and his terrifying ability to “Return by Death.” The idea of him reaching such a prestigious rank as an Imperial Knight is almost mind-boggling, considering where he began. We’ve seen him grow from a confused, often arrogant, but ultimately well-meaning protagonist into a strategic, empathetic, and incredibly resilient individual. His journey has been anything but ordinary, filled with unspeakable pain, profound loss, and moments of genuine heroism that often go unrecognized by most within the world of Lugnica. The concept of an Imperial Knight in the Kingdom of Lugnica carries with it a weight of honor, skill, and expectation that seems almost insurmountable for someone like Subaru. These are the elite, the cream of the crop, individuals renowned for their martial prowess, magical aptitude, or unique talents that serve the crown directly. They’re often drawn from noble houses, trained from a young age in combat, diplomacy, and the intricate politics of the kingdom. So, the question isn’t just a simple yes or no; it delves deep into the very essence of Subaru’s character, his role in the overarching narrative of Re:Zero , and the fundamental nature of the world he’s been thrust into. Is his path one of conventional power and recognition, or is his destiny far more unique and, dare I say, impactful in a way that transcends mere titles? Let’s dive in and explore whether our favorite protagonist could ever don the revered uniform of an Imperial Knight , or if his true calling lies in a very different kind of heroism. We’re going to break down what it truly means to be an Imperial Knight , how Subaru stacks up against those expectations, and what his unique contributions to Lugnica really mean for his future. Get ready for a deep dive into the lore, the politics, and the character development that makes Re:Zero so captivating. We’re going to really chew on this, exploring all the angles from Subaru’s magical abilities (or lack thereof) to his incredibly potent, albeit painful, main ability, “Return by Death,” and how all these factors play into the possibility of him ever being called an Imperial Knight . So, grab a snack, because this is going to be a long, but super interesting, discussion about our boy Subaru and his future. We’ll examine the specific requirements and traditions associated with this esteemed position and meticulously analyze Subaru’s current abilities, past achievements, and future potential within this intricate framework. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive and engaging exploration of this fan-favorite topic, offering valuable insights into the world of Re:Zero and the enigmatic journey of Natsuki Subaru.The journey to becoming an Imperial Knight in the Kingdom of Lugnica isn’t just about showing up with a cool sword and a brave face; it’s a monumental undertaking, steeped in tradition, requiring an almost superhuman blend of skills, lineage, and unwavering loyalty. When we talk about an Imperial Knight , we’re referring to the absolute pinnacle of military and political service within Lugnica. Think about legendary figures like Reinhard van Astrea , the “Sword Saint” himself, a man whose very existence is a cheat code in terms of power, or Julius Juukulius , the “Finest Knight,” renowned for his impeccable swordsmanship, magical prowess, and unwavering chivalry. These guys aren’t just strong; they represent the ideal, the paragon of what it means to be a protector and servant of the kingdom. An Imperial Knight ’s duties extend far beyond mere combat; they are often involved in high-level diplomacy, personal protection of royalty and key figures, strategic military planning, and upholding the laws and honor of Lugnica. Their prestige is immense, commanding respect from both commoners and nobility alike. They are the symbols of the kingdom’s strength and moral fortitude. Typically, selection for such a position involves a rigorous vetting process, often requiring a strong noble background or at least a proven track record of exceptional service and outstanding abilities. Combat expertise is paramount, whether it’s through master-level swordsmanship, potent magic, or a unique Divine Protection. Loyalty to the crown and the kingdom is non-negotiable, and a deep understanding of etiquette, politics, and the kingdom’s history is often expected. The question then becomes, how does our very own Natsuki Subaru, the guy who often relies on his incredibly painful “Return by Death” ability and the sheer force of his personality, measure up against these monumental expectations? He certainly doesn’t come from a noble background in Lugnica, and his combat skills, while improved, are nowhere near the level of a Reinhard or a Julius. His unique “Return by Death” ability, while undoubtedly powerful and crucial for saving the world time and again, is a secret shrouded in the deepest layers of despair and can’t exactly be demonstrated on a battlefield or in a formal knight’s examination. This ability, a gift from the Witch of Envy, is a double-edged sword, offering unlimited retries at the cost of unimaginable suffering and secrecy. While Subaru possesses incredible strategic thinking and an uncanny ability to rally allies, these are not the traditional metrics by which an Imperial Knight is judged. Furthermore, his gate, which allows him to manipulate Yin magic, is still largely underdeveloped, and his physical conditioning, though better than his initial arrival, is far from what you’d expect from the kingdom’s elite warriors. When we contrast Subaru’s current status and abilities with those typically expected of an Imperial Knight , a significant gap emerges. Imperial Knights are usually powerhouses, individuals who can single-handedly turn the tide of battle with their martial prowess or magical might. Subaru, on the other hand, is a master of proxy combat, a brilliant strategist, and an emotional cornerstone for his allies. He’s the guy who motivates, who plans, who brings people together, and who, thanks to “Return by Death,” has unparalleled knowledge of future events. His personal combat capabilities, however, are rudimentary compared to the likes of Rem, Garfiel, or even Emilia. He’s learned a bit of parkour, some basic self-defense, and can use his whip effectively, but he’s not a frontline fighter. His most potent magic skill, his Invisible Providence , is an extension of the Witch Factor and comes with significant drawbacks, including a massive physical toll and the risk of revealing his forbidden power. His spirit affinity, while allowing him to contract with Beatrice, doesn’t manifest in the flashy, destructive ways seen with high-level spirit arts users. For Subaru to truly fit the mold of an Imperial Knight , he would need a drastic, almost miraculous, upgrade in his personal power, or the definition of an Imperial Knight would need to be radically redefined to include strategists and support specialists rather than just combatants. Even his most significant contribution, saving Lugnica repeatedly through “Return by Death,” is his most tightly guarded secret, a power that cannot be publicly acknowledged without dire consequences. This inherent secrecy fundamentally clashes with the transparency and public role an Imperial Knight would be expected to maintain. Ultimately, the essence of an Imperial Knight is public strength, overt protection, and undeniable skill. Subaru’s strength is often covert, his protection is strategic and behind-the-scenes, and his skills are unconventional and deeply personal. It’s a stark contrast that highlights the unique path our protagonist is on, a path that might lead to something even greater, but perhaps not to the title of an Imperial Knight . We need to really consider the very traditional structure of Lugnica and how difficult it would be to integrate someone like Subaru, with all his quirks and unconventional abilities, into such a rigid system. The concept of an Imperial Knight is deeply ingrained in the kingdom’s identity, representing a standard of martial excellence and noble bearing that has been upheld for generations. Subaru, with his modern-world sensibilities and lack of traditional training, presents a significant challenge to this established order. The very idea of him being granted such a title would require an unprecedented shift in the kingdom’s recognition criteria. It would necessitate overlooking his commoner status, his unconventional background, and his reliance on strategies that often involve a great deal of suffering and secrecy. While his achievements are undeniable, the public perception of these achievements is often filtered through the lens of his more powerful allies, like Reinhard or Emilia. So, while we love Subaru for his tenacity and his unique problem-solving abilities, fitting him into the traditional role of an Imperial Knight becomes a truly monumental task, almost an impossibility given the current state of affairs and the well-established expectations of this prestigious rank.The fundamental question of Subaru Natsuki : Is he even eligible to become an Imperial Knight ? This isn’t just a matter of whether he’s strong enough , but whether he fits the entire paradigm of what Lugnica expects from its most elite protectors. Let’s be brutally honest, guys: Subaru’s background is anything but traditional. He’s a Japanese high school student with no formal combat training, no noble lineage, and no inherent magical abilities that would place him on par with the powerhouses of Lugnica. He arrived in this world with nothing but the clothes on his back and a bizarre, terrifying ability to “Return by Death.” While his journey has seen him grow tremendously, his growth has been in areas far removed from the conventional path of an Imperial Knight . His strength lies not in raw power, but in his unyielding determination , his strategic mind , and his profound empathy that allows him to connect with and rally incredibly powerful allies. He’s a master of resourcefulness, using every scrap of information and every personal connection to navigate seemingly impossible situations. He’s the guy who gets things done through sheer grit and the willingness to endure unimaginable pain. But an Imperial Knight ? That title screams of martial prowess, of open displays of strength, and a lineage that usually ties back to the kingdom’s long-standing traditions. Subaru’s reliance on his wits, his ability to manipulate circumstances, and his incredible talent for negotiation and persuasion are undoubtedly valuable, but they don’t align with the image of a knight standing tall on the battlefield, sword in hand, ready to face down an army. For him to even be considered, something monumental would have to shift – either in his own capabilities or in the very definition of what it means to be an Imperial Knight in Lugnica. He would need to either acquire a power that elevates him to the level of the strongest in the kingdom, or the kingdom itself would have to acknowledge and formally recognize the value of his unique, unconventional contributions, perhaps even redefining the role to include “Master Strategist” or “Crisis Negotiator” as a form of knighthood. This brings us to another huge hurdle: the political landscape of Lugnica. Let’s not forget, guys, this isn’t a simple meritocracy. The Kingdom of Lugnica is a land steeped in tradition, noble houses, and intricate power struggles. Would the other Royal Selection candidates, or more importantly, the established Lugnica nobility and the royal council, ever accept an outsider like Subaru as an Imperial Knight ? He’s known for his eccentricities, his sometimes-blunt manner, and his complete lack of noble lineage. Many still view him with suspicion, an unknown factor who often appears at the epicenter of major crises. Even if his actions have repeatedly saved the kingdom, those actions are often obscured, and his true role is rarely fully understood or appreciated by the wider public or the more conservative elements of the nobility. The implications of elevating someone like Subaru to such a prestigious position would be enormous. It could disrupt the delicate balance of power, challenge centuries-old traditions, and potentially invite ridicule or open defiance from those who value pedigree and conventional strength above all else. For Subaru to become an Imperial Knight , it wouldn’t just be about him proving his worth; it would require a fundamental upheaval of Lugnica’s social and political order. Furthermore, his most impactful ability, “Return by Death,” remains a closely guarded, painful secret. This means that the primary tool he uses to save the day cannot be presented as a qualification for knighthood. How do you assess a knight whose most powerful weapon is their ability to rewind time and knowledge of future events, but that weapon must never be spoken of? It’s an impossible paradox in the context of a formal knighthood. While Subaru is undeniably brave, loyal to Emilia, and deeply committed to the well-being of Lugnica and its people, his path seems destined to be one that transcends these traditional titles. His impact is far greater than what a mere rank could confer. He is the invisible hand, the unseen force, the catalyst for change, and the emotional anchor for some of the most powerful individuals in the world. He’s carved out a unique and indispensable role, one that doesn’t necessarily need a fancy title to validate its importance. So, while the thought is intriguing, the reality of Subaru becoming an Imperial Knight faces immense practical, political, and traditional barriers within the world of Re:Zero . His destiny is likely to be something far more extraordinary, something that only he, with his unique gifts and burdens, can achieve. Considering the deeply entrenched class system and the value placed on heritage and conventional prowess, integrating Subaru into the highest echelons of knighthood would be akin to rewriting the kingdom’s history and its very social fabric. The mere suggestion would likely ignite a firestorm of controversy among the older noble families, who would view it as an affront to their traditions and an undeserved elevation of a commoner, an outsider no less. This resistance would make his acceptance, let alone his effectiveness in such a role, incredibly challenging. His unconventional methods , while effective, often involve making morally ambiguous decisions and working outside established protocols, which is not the behavior typically expected of an Imperial Knight . While his unwavering loyalty to Emilia and his dedication to saving others are admirable knightly qualities, they are not sufficient on their own to overcome the deeply rooted structural obstacles that stand in the way of him ever truly becoming an Imperial Knight .The idea of Subaru becoming an Imperial Knight is certainly appealing for some fans, but what if his true path is something far more impactful and uniquely suited to his abilities? Instead of chasing a title that doesn’t quite fit, let’s explore the other roles Subaru already fills or could potentially fill, roles that truly highlight his invaluable contributions to Lugnica. Right now, Subaru is undeniably Emilia’s Knight – not in an official, formalized sense, but in every way that truly matters. He is her unwavering protector, her emotional support, her strategist, and her most devoted ally. This role is far more personal and profound than any mere title could convey. He doesn’t need a royal decree to solidify his commitment; his actions speak louder than any formal investiture. His diplomatic skills, often underestimated, are a cornerstone of his success. Think about how he navigates the complex relationships between various factions, like the Emilia Camp and Crusch’s forces, or even the subtle ways he manages to gain the trust of figures like Roswaal (to a degree) and the villagers. He’s a natural-born negotiator, able to bridge divides and inspire loyalty where others might fail. His leadership in crisis situations is another key strength. When everything goes to hell, and people are panicking, it’s often Subaru who steps up, assesses the situation, and devises a plan, even if that plan involves immense personal sacrifice. He’s the guy who can keep a cool head (or at least appear to) when others are losing theirs, guiding his allies through impossible odds. Subaru’s strength lies not in direct combat but in his influence and determination. He is the glue that holds his powerful allies together, the brain behind many of their victories, and the emotional core that prevents their despair from consuming them. He enables others to be their best, to fight effectively, and to believe in a better future. His most potent ability, “Return by Death,” is not a weapon for direct confrontation but a tool for acquiring information, predicting outcomes, and meticulously planning the optimal path forward. This makes him an invaluable strategic asset, a living tactical supercomputer, unmatched by any other character in the series. Looking ahead, what future developments could alter his path, potentially leading him to a more formal position that rivals or surpasses the prestige of an Imperial Knight , but one that is better suited to his unique skill set? We’ve already seen him informally establish the “Emilia Camp,” a powerful faction in its own right. Perhaps he could become a formally recognized “Chief Strategist” or “Royal Advisor” to Emilia once she ascends to the throne. This role would leverage his intelligence, his knowledge of future events (though secretly), and his ability to rally diverse groups. Such a position would allow him to operate from a place of authority without requiring him to be a frontline combatant, a role he’s simply not built for. His relationship with Betelgeuse and his increasing connection to the Witch Factor present another intriguing possibility. As he gains more control over Invisible Providence and potentially other Witch Factors, he might evolve into a figure unlike any seen before. This could lead to a unique kind of power, one that demands a new category of recognition, perhaps even a “Witch Factor Regulator” or a “Guardian of the Seals” type of role, offering a different, perhaps even greater, form of influence and responsibility than a traditional Imperial Knight . Furthermore, consider his impact on the demi-human communities and his relationship with groups like the Oni village. His compassionate actions have forged powerful alliances, making him a diplomatic bridge between humanity and other races. This unique position could evolve into a role that transcends national boundaries, perhaps even making him an international mediator or a “Protector of All Races,” a title far more encompassing and influential than simply serving the Lugnican crown as an Imperial Knight . Subaru’s journey is not about fitting into pre-existing molds; it’s about forging a new path, one defined by his unique abilities and his unwavering heart. His heroism isn’t measured by the glint of armor or the swing of a sword, but by the lives he saves, the despair he overcomes, and the hope he instills in others. He is, in essence, an unprecedented hero, and his future roles will likely reflect that unparalleled journey, leading him to a position of profound, unique influence that no Imperial Knight could ever achieve. His true power lies in his ability to adapt, to endure, and to inspire , qualities that are far more valuable in the complex world of Re:Zero than mere martial might. He is not just a knight; he is a catalyst for change, a lynchpin in the very fabric of the world’s destiny, and his impact will undoubtedly resonate far beyond any conventional title. He is the ultimate support character, yes, but in a world where direct power often falls short against insurmountable odds, Subaru’s brand of strategic, empathetic heroism is, frankly, indispensable. We should anticipate his journey taking him towards roles that reflect this unique blend of skills, rather than trying to force him into a conventional box. His true legacy will be built on the unprecedented challenges he overcomes, not on the titles he might acquire.In conclusion, guys, while the romantic notion of Subaru becoming an Imperial Knight is undeniably intriguing, our deep dive into the world of Re:Zero strongly suggests that his true value and trajectory lie in a very different, and arguably far more impactful, direction. Subaru Natsuki is not, and likely will not become, an Imperial Knight in the traditional sense, simply because his unique skill set and methods do not align with the established criteria and expectations for such a prestigious role within the Kingdom of Lugnica. He lacks the conventional martial prowess, the noble lineage, and the public-facing image that are hallmarks of an Imperial Knight . His most powerful weapon, “Return by Death,” is a secret burden he must bear alone, preventing it from ever being a public qualification for any formal position. His gate, while capable of Yin magic, is not developed to the degree of a high-tier mage, and his physical abilities, while improved, don’t place him in the same league as the Reinhard or Julius. Instead, Subaru’s heroism is defined by something far more profound and unconventional. His humanity , his resilience , and his unwavering loyalty are what make him unique and indispensable to the overarching narrative and to the lives of those he protects. He is the ultimate strategist, the emotional anchor, and the unyielding force of will that repeatedly pulls Lugnica back from the brink of disaster. His strength lies not in direct combat, but in his ability to connect with people, to inspire hope, and to meticulously plan solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems through repeated, agonizing trials and errors. He is Emilia’s knight in every way that truly matters, providing her with the support, guidance, and emotional stability she needs to lead. He brings together disparate factions, negotiates impossible alliances, and sacrifices his mental and emotional well-being over and over again for the sake of others. These are not the actions of a typical Imperial Knight , but of a hero whose influence permeates every level of the story, often from the shadows or from a position of strategic oversight rather than direct confrontation. His path is one of forging new ground, creating a role for himself that no one else could possibly fill. We’ve explored the immense political and traditional hurdles he would face, the resistance from nobility, and the fundamental mismatch between his abilities and the expectations of an Imperial Knight . His future roles are far more likely to involve high-level advising, strategic leadership within the Emilia Camp, or even a completely new, unprecedented position that acknowledges his unique mastery over the Witch Factors and his unparalleled experience with time loops. Perhaps he will become the “Shadow Hand” of the future Queen, the “Master Strategist of Lugnica,” or a figure whose influence is so pervasive that it transcends the need for any single title. Ultimately, the question isn’t whether Subaru will get a fancy title, but whether his actions will continue to shape the world of Re:Zero in profound ways, which they undoubtedly will. His journey is a testament to the idea that true heroism doesn’t always wear shining armor or wield the mightiest sword. Sometimes, it wears a tracksuit, whispers secrets of the future, and endures unimaginable pain, all for the sake of those it loves. His power is not of this world, and neither is his destiny. He is the unsung hero, the quiet force that makes the impossible possible, and that, my friends, is far more significant than any rank of Imperial Knight . He is, and always will be, Subaru Natsuki: the boy who saves the world, one agonizing death at a time, proving that true strength comes from within, from an unwavering spirit, and an indomitable will to protect. His legacy will be etched in the very survival of Lugnica, a testament to his unique form of heroism that defies all conventional expectations. He stands as a prime example that titles are merely labels, but actions, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment truly define a hero’s impact. The idea of him becoming an Imperial Knight might be a cool thought, but it would limit the true scope and uniqueness of his contributions. Subaru is much more than a knight; he is the linchpin, the ultimate support, and the irreplaceable heart of the entire narrative, making his own, unique mark on the world, one that far exceeds any singular title. He is the ultimate proof that sometimes, the greatest heroes are those who operate outside the rigid confines of established power structures, paving their own way through sheer will and an unshakeable resolve.