Explanation on the R=U theory?

[PhoenixAsh]

To say that it isn't hinted at is unfair. Some of Edea and Rinoa's lines in Edea's house show very strong foreshadowing,as if I remember correctly, does a scene where you see white feathers turn black, though I can't remember much about that.

Except none of these scenes explicity express the notion that Ultimecia is Rinoa. It's only looking at these scenes with this thought already in mind that one starts to draw parallels.

I am aware of that (though some cases less than others), hence I followed it with...

Griever on the other hand is quite a big pointer. It's a symbol that only really connects to Squall and Rinoa, and I still think the intimidation explanation is just pointless.

In the original Japanese version, it is stated that Ultimecia drew Griever from Squall's thoughts. It wasn't to intimidate him; she was just using what was already within his mind to create a powerful opponent.

Why? What purpose could this serve, and how could it better justify the attention that Griever recieves throughout the game than R=U?

The game does leave holes in its plotline that people fill in or work out. Squall's parents and history being a fairly simple example.

Unlike the R=U theory, there are several specific moments that undeniably link Squall to Laguna.

Again I am well aware of that, hence I called it 'a fairly simple example'. My point was that there are elements of the game that can be thought into, and my example was one generally agreed upon as being worthwhile and conclusive.

The gap between the 'present' and Ultimecia's time is not hugely delved into, and it is not uncommon in stories involving time-travel for persons to meet themselves.

Laguna states within the game that the gap is too big for such a thing to happen.

I do not remember that, so I can not comment without knowing the context. You may be correct. Though it certainly seems possible that Laguna could be incorrect, or was referring to people with a normal human lifespan. My point was simply that stories involving time-travel frequently involve such occurences, and that the apparent oddness of R=U is lessened by this fact.


Sephiroth's Cage: I may have misunderstood you, but unless there is an external or seemingly random element involved in the time-loop, then I don't really see how it could change... I certainly don't see how such a change could result in Ultimecia's existence in all of the cycles, as Ultimecia is required 'prior' to the change.

I like the Squall/Griever idea, though I don't support it due to references earlier in the game to Sorceresses going bad not having knights. The idea of Rinoa becoming Ultimecia is supported by the idea that IF she did somehow outlive normal humans, at some point she would lose Squall, and thus have a good chance of becoming evil. I don't see a good reason why she would turn evil despite Squall's presence.