some time ago I speculated that Zenos’ utter lack of empathy or care for others’ feelings and lives could’ve stemmed from severe childhood emotional neglect
then I realized that Varis was raised by Emet, who was 100% an uncaring and distant parent figure, and Varis could’ve-
-thought that was the proper way to raise a child
(also the Empire’s general culture of dehumanizing other races and of conquest would’ve fostered a callous disregard for the life of others)

point is I read this paragraph on ff wiki that kinda confirms that
also Zenos being raised as royalty would’ve meant he’d have gotten whatever the hell material items he wanted. so it’s no wonder he’s so selfish
Zenos was a joyless child, according to the wiki, which isn’t too surprising since he was emotionally neglected.
the adrenaline rush that came from fighting and killing his mentor was likely the most excitement or joy he’d felt.
please note I’m NOT trying to excuse Zenos being a murderer and an overall horrible person. I’m just (over)analyzing his character
I’d like to reiterate that it wasn’t just childhood neglect, it was also the fact that he was brought up as royalty in a fascist empire that glorifies conquest and murder
“ok so why is he obsessed with the WoL”
well they’re one of few people (if not the only people) who can actually fight him to the death without dying. also I wouldn’t be surprised if he actually interprets them coming back to fight him repeatedly as a sign that they care abt him
that last theory is kinda supported by the minstrel calling Zenos a lonely, pitiable man. doesn't mean he’s not completely fucking evil though. I’ll probably think up something else to add onto this thread within the hour lol
(I’m not trying to imply that childhood neglect turns you into a murderous maniac and I’m really sorry if I implied that at the start of the thread)
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