Quote Originally Posted by Lauront View Post
It's less a matter of being "upset" in this case. He says he is tempered in the EN version, yes, but not specifically enthralled. In FR he uses the word "subjugated" (presented as that - in quotations), and explains that tempering has made them into energy transmission belts of Zodiark. Up to that point, we might surmise they could still have been acting under his direction. Where it begins to fall apart is the fact that 1) he lacks a will when not being controlled, other than apparently acting on some self-defence instincts; 2) his tempering was due to his great power rather than rites intended to induce slavish obedience and 3) Emet-Selch actively deviates from his original plan by devising for the WoL a test. He even states at the end (with Zodiark gone and presumably "cleansed" through the Aetherial Sea) that his principles remain invincible and that he clashed with the WoL due to their goals being different. He honours the test he set. As for Lahabrea and Elidibus? In their case, yes, tempering did appear to degrade the mind, because they didn't take efforts to preserve their memories (Elidibus) or identity (Lahabrea), unlike Emet-Selch.

It's not that they're tempered which people are disputing, but rather the idea that from this, it follows that they were acting on Zodiark's direction.
which isn't what i'm saying either. i'm just saying whether or not they're tempered is a matter open for debate and it's a debate i don't want to be a part of because of/one of the reasons i gave. that's all.