MSQ's:
I think the writers handled Elidibus rather well. He's less emotional than Emet-Selch, though still able to put on an act and tug at heartstrings. It explains how he was able to get Ardbert and his friends on his side for a while. It's sad to see him walking around in Ardbert's corpse, though at the same time it's also sad to see Elidibus carrying the burden of his duties alone. Yet more revelations about the Echo, Hydaelyn and Zodiark to consider. It's looking more and more like something went awry with both of them. Venat being name dropped is fascinating - given the part he played back in FFXII in regards to putting the reins of history back in the hands of man. I won't be surprised if we have to put a stop to both Zodiark and Hydaelyn at this point. Especially with the defector from the convocation refusing to pick a side in the civil war that consumed the people of Amaurot. I'm glad Zenos didn't show up on the First as the trailer made it seem but instead had a dream of Amaurot instead. Still no real clue as to who is new friend is.
Nier:
A short quest this time around, though it's better than nothing. The music roll is a pretty neat bonus to tide us over until the next raid arrives. The mention of a carnival is interesting, I wonder if it's foreshadowing the amusement park from Nier: Automata? Simone is a pretty iconic fight in the game itself, so I wouldn't be surprised to see her show up somehow.
Ruby Weapon:
Gaius seems fond of adoption. It's nice to work alongside him. The Ruby Weapon was pretty creepy, especially in the second phase. The idea of implanting the memories of Garlean heroes makes me wonder if Sapphire Weapon will involve Regula. The pilot has blue hair, Regula was a heroic figure, his body was returned to Garlemald...and his colour scheme was very blue heavy. It'd make for a pretty tragic fight. It might not happen but...call it a hunch!