So... I can't help but think this.

Alphinaud... is stated to be a charismatic person. He was able to raise an army through the power of persuasion.

And that army is supposed to be for help wiping out the ascian threat, beastmen, and primal threats as well.

3.1 it was stated that he may have missed his calling as a painter by Krile and Y'shtola.

With every bit of character development with Alphinaud, he sounds more and more like a certain someone in World War 2.