NERO
<sigh> It appears a lesson is in order. Halicarnassus is a character from an ancient fable. In the tale, she is one of the chief antagonists, and as such things are wont to unfold, she meets her end at the hands of the heroes─incurably valiant youths not unlike our adventurer friend here.
NERO
Literary historians have speculated that the tale could be loosely based on events which took place in the Fourth Astral Era, but little remains of that age, and there is no way to verify the claim. Indeed, most now assume the story to be a work of pure fiction.
CID
...You mean to tell me that Omega is populating its grand experiment with fictional characters?
MIDGARDSORMR
'Twould seem your understanding is yet lacking. Scant grasp have I of that which men know and know not...
MIDGARDSORMR
Mark me, then. Omega hath no soul. No mind's eye in which to envision a rival.
MIDGARDSORMR
To bring forth new life, it must needs draw upon that which hath already been─its every creation being another's conception.
MIDGARDSORMR
This limitation is concealed by the breadth of its experience. It possesseth the means to retain the knowledge of entire eras─and not only of this reflection. Yet it perceiveth not this knowledge as we do.
MIDGARDSORMR
Fact...fiction...the distinction holdeth no meaning for Omega. All is equal in its eyes. If a thing is logical, it can be created.
NERO
From what I have been able to gather, your opponent is, and I quote, “a great tree born of an agglomeration of evil will, which assumes the form of a dark mage.” All of which I suggest you ignore.
NERO
His name is Exdeath, and he plays the role of chief antagonist in another ancient tale.