Yes, Strong's the other psychopath in this scenario, and the fact that he viewed Simon and Michael as pretty much exactly the same -- tools for his use, nothing more -- speaks volumes about HIS mental state.

I really hope you're right about the series finale. I love these characters too much to be even remotely OK with anyone else being killed off, or Michael going darkside. And they've been so good about keeping the team safe for 7 seasons -- but that's exactly why I'm afraid of what they might feel free to do in the finale, especially after such a highly-emotional season. I just don't trust showrunners or networks to not destroy their creation in some way, even if it's over, and ratings don't really matter anymore. *sigh*