So, Black Alberich. The Cold Steel Arc’s resident asshole scholar. But aside from what we’ve been told,  who is he really?

We know he’s Alisa’s dad, and that he’s the Leader of the Gnomes, but I think there might be more to the latter bit than we think.  Alberich’s namesake appears to be the Leader of the dwarves from Wagner’s ring cycle. Ring Alberich is a thief who stole the Rhinemaidens’ gold and made a magic ring with it. Trails Alberich stole resources from the Reinford family, as well as the knowledge to make homunculi from the Crois family.

That’s where it ends, right? Well, no. Apparently, Alberich is also the German name for Oberon, king of the Fairies. And just like the Gnomes prior to Sen 3, there’s been a distinct lack of mention of the Fairies.

I think Falcom has one more plot twist up their sleeves regarding Black Alberich’s identity, and it’s a doozy. I think Alberich isn’t a Gnome at all- He’s a fairy, pretending to be the Gnomes’ elder for centuries. He’s the one who changed the Gnomes from being more like the Witches – mysterious but generally helpful – to something more manipulative. After all, his primary namesake, Alberich the dwarf, also used the magic ring to enslave his fellow dwarves into doing his bidding.

I actually think this gives George a motivation that isn’t totally evil. Perhaps the name Georg marks him as next in line to become Elder in the Gnomes’ old traditions, but with Alberich around, he can’t take his rightful position. Maybe he wants to reset the Gnomes to their old ways, and is only working under Alberich so he can subvert him later.

That’s probably just wishful thinking on my part though.