and no,
don't persuade yourselves into their deliberate attempt
to blur the line between good and evil.
they ultimate motivation in the long run is absolutely clear.
they simply mean harm.
deter me from progress, change my image, create controversy and harm.
saying anything 'good' only gives them more chances of repeating that
harm and they know it.
it is to buy time, and buy permission from lenience.
please don't be swayed by this.
the right thing to do, while knowing that their friend is in this situation,
is not to attack him when he is in the blind,
minding his own business.