OG Azem (*SPOILERS*)

[Gemina]

I'm re-watching EW cutscenes and after the Hydaelyn duty she quotes "When the way forward is hidden from the mind's eye, look not to the Invocation, but within yourself". She claims these are the words of the original Azem.

Later on before the final Dungeon, Emet implores us to continue exploring, and consider it our duty as Azem "as he had". I might be reading too far into it, but does that mean Emet was an Azem before he took Emet's seat?

Who was the original Azem, and how many were there before us and Venat?

We know that three ancient's at the very least have held this seat. We know Venat is not the original Azem, then there is Venat herself, and her successor (current Azem while we are in Elpis).

As for Emet, it is doubtful he ever held the seat of Azem. He almost wasn't a member of the convocation at all, being the second choice for his seat. Based off of Emet's send away statements in Ktisis Hyperboreia and Ultima Thule to the WoL, along with some from Hytholadeaus in regards to Emet's feelings towards the current Azem, we can accurately ascertain that Emet has been a member of the convocation for some time. Long enough to have seen several Azem's come and go during his tenure (at least the three afore mentioned).

During this time, it is made known through Emet's feelings and memories that those who have held the seat of Azem share certain characteristics. But along with that, the seat itself does have a 'duty' that needs to be upheld by the person occupying it. These characteristics annoy Emet to no end, but at the same time they are also extremely distinguishable to him. Very much like how you would be able to recognize a family member like a brother or sister even if they are wearing a full costume. He'll never admit to it, but his love for his people most certainly does not exclude Azem. We remind him so much of him/her that he sees it as our duty to live as they did.

To me their relationship feels very sibling like. But that could be different for everyone.