(Pre-Show) The Lobby

[Strazio Rockwell]

Strazio stepped slowly through the portal, still wary of the unknown in the Omniverse. He shielded his eyes from the bright fluorescent lights of the lobby and surveyed the area. Reporters with strange devices and outfits skittered throughout the large room. The reporters smelled a new entry and they flocked over to Strazio. They fought amongst themselves and Strazio watched with morbid curiosity as they tried to get a scoop. Finally one emerged from the pack, victorious and full of spunk the younger man bombarded Strazio with questions.

"Sir! sir! What's your name?" the young reporter shoved the microphone in Strazio's face and simultaneously body-blocked several other reporters from getting to the prime.

Strazio was impressed by the man's tenacity and decided to throw him a bone "my name is Strazio Rockwell, defender of Darkshire."

Dejected and defeated the other reporters walked away, looking for fresh blood. The young reporter adjusted his tie and stepped closer to the prime, making sure the microphone was as close as possible "and Mr. Rockwell why did you join the abyss?"

Strazio smiled at the camera and spoke with a ferocious inner fire "I want to get stronger, you're looking at the prime that's gonna banish Dracula and save the Moors."

"That's a bold statement Mr. Rockwell, I wish you the best of luck. Now what do you think of your competition?" the reporter motioned towards the screen listing the competitors. Strazio took a moment to read through the list. Dammit looks like Crona did sign up Strazio thought. He actually kind of liked Crona and secretly hoped he wouldn't have to kill the boy in the abyss.

"I'm confident I can beat anyone I run into on the island" his voice was filled with confidence.

"So no alliances for you then?"

Strazio smiled and shook his head "I'm not here to make friends."

The reporter turned back to the camera and spoke with a sickening saccharine "you heard it here first folks, we'll keep you updated on this pernicious prime as he combats the trials of the abyss! Back to Dave in the studio!"

Strazio's smile evaporated as the reporter turned and thanked him for the content. It was all a production, one that Strazio was willing to participate in if it meant getting closer to accomplishing his goals. Strazio pulled his hood over his head and headed to the large hallway at the end of the lobby. After the excitement of the attendant and the interview he needed time to de-stress. The park sounded nice to the weary prime and he stepped through the doorway.