There's been a lot of talk of character death. I think the only one I feel that's really slated for it is Maxima. He's poised to be the next Haurchefant in that he's one of the few relatable/likable Garleans in the main story that's also minor enough to become a plot sacrifice when the story gets too comfortable.

Also, it's obvious to me that Varis is fundamentally against Solus and to a lesser extent Elidibus. I feel like he'll use the battle as a cover to forge a secret pact with the other alliance leaders, or at the very least trade information on their ultimate goals. Varis seems like he's pretty straightforward and not the type for level of subterfuge that Solus and Elidibus are. He feels like the iron hammer of Garlemald. More for power and subjugation than subterfuge.