Crusch Karsten
Crusch Karsten |
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Kanji: | クルシュ・カルステン |
Age: | 20 (Arc 3-4), 21 (Arc 5+) |
Height: | 168 cm (5’6″) |
Weight: | —— |
Gender: | Female |
Status: | Alive |
Voice Actors | |
Japanese Voice: | Iguchi Yuka |
English Voice: | Erika Harlacher |
Crusch Karsten (クルシュ・カルステン), is the Matriarch of House Karsten and a candidate in the Royal Selection to become the 42nd king of the Dragon Kingdom of Lugunica. Renowned for her exceptional leadership and prowess, Crusch is celebrated both on the battlefield as the Valkyrie and in her role as the future Duchess of House Karsten. She plays pivotal roles in Arc 3 and Arc 5, and serves as the protagonist of Re:Zero Ex Novel 1, which delves into her backstory.
The daughter of the former Duke Karsten, Crusch was raised in high society and quickly gained recognition for her intelligence, charisma, and love of swordsmanship. Befriending Fourier Lugunica, the late prince of Lugunica, and Ferris Argyle, her loyal knight, Crusch’s popularity and leadership grew immensely. Her candidacy in the Royal Selection is driven by her belief that Lugunica has become overly dependent on the Divine Dragon, prompting her goal to sever the covenant with the dragon and strengthen the kingdom’s independence. However, following the events of Arc 3, Crusch loses her memories and is cursed due to the actions of the Witch Cult’s Sin Archbishops.
Appearance
Crusch Karsten’s Initial Appearance in Anime
Crusch is a striking woman of noble bearing with long emerald-green hair that flows elegantly down her back. Her sharp, golden eyes exude confidence and determination, perfectly complementing her dignified demeanor. Crusch’s tall and athletic physique reflects her dedication to swordsmanship, giving her an aura of strength and authority.
She often wears tailored outfits befitting her status as the Matriarch of House Karsten. Her clothing, typically adorned with green and gold accents, reflects her noble heritage and her symbolic connection to the Karsten family colors. Whether on the battlefield or in the office, her poised and commanding presence is unmistakable.
Personality
Crusch is a composed, honorable, and pragmatic leader who values strength, loyalty, and justice. Her unwavering dedication to her people and her ideals makes her a respected figure in Lugunica. While her demeanor can appear stern, she possesses a deep sense of empathy and a willingness to understand others. Her belief in self-reliance and hard work is central to her philosophy, which drives her goal to strengthen the kingdom’s independence.
Her friendship with Fourier and Ferris reveals her more personable and emotional side, showing her ability to form deep and lasting bonds. Despite her noble upbringing, Crusch remains humble and approachable, earning the admiration of both her peers and subjects. Following her memory loss, Crusch’s personality shifts to a more vulnerable and uncertain state, showcasing her resilience as she navigates her new reality.
Role in the Story
Arc 3: The Valkyrie of Lugunica: Crusch plays a crucial supporting role in Arc 3, where her strategic acumen and leadership contribute significantly to the alliance against the Witch Cult. She leads her forces in the battle against the White Whale, demonstrating her exceptional combat skills and unyielding resolve. However, the aftermath of the battle is marked by tragedy, as Crusch loses her memories and is cursed by the Sin Archbishop of Gluttony, Lye Batenkaitos.
Arc 5: Supporting the Kingdom: In Arc 5, despite her memory loss, Crusch continues to support the kingdom and her allies in the Royal Selection. Her unwavering spirit and innate leadership qualities shine through, even as she grapples with her new limitations. Her bond with Ferris remains a source of strength, and she continues to fight for her ideals and the future of Lugunica.
Ex Novel 1: Crusch’s Backstory: In Ex Novel 1, Crusch’s backstory is explored, detailing her childhood, her friendship with Fourier, and her rise as the Matriarch of House Karsten. The novel delves into her development as a leader and her growing ambition to reform the kingdom by breaking its reliance on the Divine Dragon.
Relationships
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Fourier Lugunica: Crusch shared a close bond with Fourier, the late prince of Lugunica. His death during the royal family’s demise deeply affected her, further fueling her resolve to protect the kingdom and its people.
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Ferris Argyle: Ferris is Crusch’s loyal knight and confidant, standing by her side through her triumphs and hardships. Their relationship is built on mutual trust and respect, with Ferris often providing emotional support to Crusch, especially after her memory loss.
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Royal Selection Candidates: Crusch interacts with her fellow Royal Selection candidates, often serving as a foil to Emilia and Priscilla due to her pragmatic and independent approach to governance.
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Subaru Natsuki: Crusch forms an alliance with Subaru during Arc 3, and her support plays a crucial role in the defeat of the White Whale and the fight against the Witch Cult.
Trivia
Legacy
Crusch Karsten stands as a symbol of strength, honor, and resilience in Re:Zero. Her dedication to her ideals and her people, combined with her charisma and combat skills, make her one of the most respected figures in the series. Even in the face of adversity, Crusch continues to fight for the future of Lugunica, embodying the qualities of a true leader. Her character arc explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the enduring power of resolve, cementing her legacy as one of the series’ most inspiring and dynamic characters.