Wilhelm van Astrea

Wilhelm van Astrea is a prominent supporting character in Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World. He is an elderly, highly skilled swordsman known by the fearsome title "Sword Demon" (Kenki) from his youth.

He serves as a loyal retainer and bodyguard to Crusch Karsten in her royal selection camp. Wilhelm is the widower of Theresia van Astrea (the previous generation's Sword Saint), grandfather to the current Sword Saint Reinhard van Astrea, and a former captain in the Lugunica Royal Guard.

In the present timeline, he appears as a refined, polite, and humble older gentleman with long white hair, a beard, and a calm demeanor, always treating others with respect and formality. Despite his age, he retains an impressive muscular build and remains one of the kingdom's most formidable warriors, renowned for his exceptional swordsmanship.

His backstory (explored in side stories) reveals a younger self who rose to legendary status during the Demi-Human War through sheer talent and ferocity, later marrying Theresia after defeating her in a duel to free her from the burdens of being the Sword Saint.