With inter-dimensional and space travel possible in FF14's world, I can't help but wonder if Hydaelyn somehow crashlanded into Zodiark world and displaced him as the the world's crystal? Somewhat similar to FF9's Terra vs Gaia? Hence, all the Astral/Umbral Eras.

Anyways, it is interesting that the WoL is really the only non-Sharlayan of the group. We do find out that Sharlayans are pretty arrogant. Looking back, I never found Alphinaud to be too annoying. Had things been different, I can could have seen him end up being an antagonist with his Crystal Braves