Ilberd

[Theodric]

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No, I'm blaming Hydaelyn for not communicating with anyone. Even the WoL and the Scions are fumbling around in the dark because she isn't open and honest with them despite their continued loyalty. Which suggests she has something to hide. As for the Garleans that you've listed as doing more harm than good...there's only a handful of prominent figures to consider. You're referring to the likes of Nael and Gaius, I imagine? We don't know a whole lot about Varis' motives just yet so we can't speak with the benefit of hindsight.

Still, people around these parts are way too hard on the Garleans. Eorzea itself has harboured numerous individuals who have caused Eorzea all sorts of difficulties and harm so it's not as if it's some sort of pure and righteous place.

-snip-

There's Varis' quote from the encounter in the Sea of Clouds. I can't get online at the moment to check but I'm pretty certain it's along the lines of 'You know as well as we what will ensue should these insatiable beasts be allowed to roam free' as he and his men seek to pursue the Bismarck. Since they were aware of the Archbishop's plan - something that hasn't really been explained - they were also seeking to put a stop to him, too.

Granted, he also implies that he isn't above exterminating 'certain elements' for the greater good but that just ties in with my comparison to Tywin Lannister. They're both ruthless and efficient, not outright evil. It's also worth noting that the WoL and the Scions operate under the exact same code and aren't above exterminating entire elements or groups if they don't align with their own goals. Excuses can be made for this to some extent but it's not as if Eorzea is left a better place for it in many cases. The entire story in Ishgard has highlighted how much is lost during war and infighting.