Yes, Daedalus does harbor a form of love for Re-L, specifically described as a strange obsessive love.
Is Daedalus in Love with Re-L?
Daedalus indeed displays a profound and often unsettling affection for Re-L Mayer. This connection is characterized not as a conventional romance, but rather as an intense, almost fixated form of devotion. His feelings transcend typical emotional bonds, manifesting as a deep-seated obsession that significantly influences his actions and motivations throughout the narrative.
Understanding Daedalus's Affection for Re-L
The nature of Daedalus's feelings for Re-L is complex and multifaceted, highlighting the unique dynamics within their relationship. His love is interwoven with his genius and his distinct personality.
- Obsessive Nature: Daedalus's affection for Re-L is explicitly referred to as an obsessive love. This suggests a level of intensity and preoccupation that goes beyond simple admiration or attachment. It implies that Re-L is often the focal point of his thoughts and efforts, potentially at the expense of other considerations.
- Strange Dynamics: The description of his love as "strange" indicates that it deviates from societal norms or expectations. This peculiarity might stem from the context of their world, Daedalus's own psychological makeup, or the unusual circumstances surrounding their interactions. It could manifest as possessiveness, extreme dedication, or even a detached, analytical form of care.
- Daedalus's Character: As a character, Daedalus is portrayed as sharp-witted and even secretive. These traits likely influence how he expresses or conceals his love for Re-L. His intelligence might lead to intricate plans or methods for observing and interacting with her, while his secretive nature would keep the full extent of his feelings guarded.
- External Perception: The intensity of Daedalus's fixation is such that another character, Raul, observes his behavior and remarks that Daedalus has "lost it" when introducing Re-L (also referred to as Real). This external commentary underscores the unusual and possibly alarming degree of his obsession, indicating that his dedication is noticeable and somewhat unsettling to others.
In essence, while Daedalus is undeniably "in love" with Re-L, it is crucial to understand that this is not a healthy or typical form of affection. It is a powerful, consuming obsession that shapes his actions and perceptions within the story.