The Aetherophysics of Soul Shenanigans (4.4 SPOILERS)

[Theodric]

The source and nature of the orders is a tough bridge to cross with assumptions alone. Ysayle was given no specific orders and interpreted that she received the Echo to see the vision she saw, and interpreted Hydaelyn's silence as consent that she was on the right path. According to Elidibus, the overlords are following orders from Zodiark Himself, and helping them work to satisfy the letter of those orders (while also fulfilling his own, different, but not mutually incompatible orders). If they are misled, does it not follow that Elidibus is misleading them?

By the by, what do you imagine the consequences of restoring the world and mankind to its original form entails? Your path assumes mortals may benefit, if we should just accept it.

I'm operating under the assumption that because we don't know all the details, things may not be so simple as they appear. Thus far, I have not been wrong to embrace such a path - because most of the antagonists we have dealt with so far, in true 'Final Fantasy' style, have been much more complicated than many credited. Thus I am led to believe that neither Hydaelyn or Zodiark are worth following blindly. Mortals seem to be set to be condemned no matter which succeeds at reigning supreme.

I don't know how familiar other posters are with other Final Fantasy titles and I don't exactly want to spoil things too much...but it isn't unusual for the protagonists to align themselves with major antagonists for the sake of the 'greater good'. That could be the case with at least one Ascian. It remains to be seen. It might not be the case, though I don't think the possibility should be written off.

[Anonymoose]

I'm operating under the assumption that because we don't know all the details, things may not be so simple as they appear.

I agree with all of this, which I think highlights my point: can this sentiment be used as a retort whilst it makes no commitments beyond Light and Darkness "reigning supreme" is a bad idea, and "not all antagonists are evil and we might work with some." There are a hundred directions the story could take whereby this could be roughly interpreted as true, yes?

This includes my own suspicions (which are at times under the umbrella of the retorts): it's possible for the "Good versus Evil" aspect of the story to be an illusion based on incidentals without changing anything much practical consequence.