Well, it looks like Tau armies can fight perfectly well without an Etheral standing right next to them, so they don't seem that necesssary. Also, I would say Shas'O are inspirational too (but not as much as Etherals). I think the risk of them dying far outweighs any benefit of them taking part in the battle. Also, I find them annoying...
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By trying we can easily learn to endure adversity -- another man's, I mean. - Mark Twain  |