A Part, and yet Apart

[CyrilLucifer]

Well, since you said alt, I assume you've done Heavensward already. But in case others haven't, here's my spoiler warning.

I, too, was uncomfortable and annoyed with Alphinaud's rather arrogant actions in 2.X. He was really starting to grate me. I think I finally forgave him by the time Ravana rolled around and Estinien was making jokes about he worried like a maid about you. I also appreciated him trying to learn the more physical jobs, like gathering firewood.

The whole "use but don't include" does seem to be a bit of a plot point. It's mentioned specifically by Thordan that you are everyone's tool. Also, note that when Minfilia leaves at the end of those particular 2.55 events, she saves you not because you are a friend or a fellow scion, but because, and this is a direct quote: you are hope. I wouldn't be surprised if the idea that you are simply everyone's weapon/tool was expanded on at a later point. Beyond the whole DRK quest set, that is, which already shows the WoL's reaction to it, rather than the Scions'.

That being said, Minfilia and you do seem to hold your private meetings together, discussing the Echo and its implications when no one else is around. She considers you emotional support, as well. I'd say your relationship with Minfilia was developing well, but I definitely agree that I didn't really feel it as deeply with everyone else before Heavensward, which put more emphasis on your relationship with your companions.