Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Influential figures agree to warn Moth to Fire council to stop suppressing Mobius due to Moros's interference.
• Moth to Fire council compromises and lifts suppression measures against Mobius.
• Some influential figures use this opportunity to replace weak councillors.
• Mobius learns about the forces behind the United Nations' intervention.

Character Developments

• Moros demonstrates his influence and power, making influential figures comply with his demands.
• Mobius shows political acumen by understanding the forces behind the United Nations' intervention.
• Elysia remains playful and curious, teasing Mobius.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and political maneuvering among influential figures and the Moth to Fire council.
• The influence of the United Nations and its backing in global affairs.
• The relationship between Mobius and Moros, and their connection to the influential figures.

Character Interactions

• Moros interacts with influential figures, demonstrating his power and influence.
• Mobius and Elysia have a playful exchange, with Elysia teasing Mobius about her seriousness.
• Mobius and Klein have a professional interaction, with Mobius receiving a report from Klein.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Moros and Vill-V collaborate to create the 'Undead Engine,' a war machine powered by the soul of a skeleton, merging magic and technology.
• The first Undead Engine, a 155MM self-propelled artillery, is successfully created and added to the 'Blacksmith' for mass production.
• Moros approves and orders larger caliber Undead Engines, despite their high cost, due to their impressive destructive power.
• Meanwhile, human elites secretly convene to discuss countermeasures against the Necromancer's threats and regain their lost authority.

Character Developments

• Moros demonstrates his satisfaction and pride in the Undead Engine's creation, approving its mass production and ordering larger models.
• Vill-V feels proud and joyful about her contribution to the Undead Engine's creation, leading to increased cooperation among her personalities.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics: The Necromancer's challenge to human elites' authority highlights the shifting balance of power.
• Innovation and adaptation: Moros and Vill-V's collaboration leads to the creation of a new type of war machine, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate.

Character Interactions

• Moros and Vill-V work closely together, with Vill-V's expertise in design and Moros' magical abilities combining to create the Undead Engine.
• Human elites interact, discussing strategies to counter the Necromancer's threats and regain their lost authority.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The powerful figures discuss countering the Necromancer, with Theodore suggesting the risky "Flame-Chaser Project."
• The project is shelved due to its high risks and unknowns.
• They decide to incite resistance among the people of the Australian Continent and New Zealand to slow the Necromancer's development.
• A container ship from the Mu Continent brings weapons to resistance organizations in Australia, bypassing inspections with bribes.

Character Developments

• Theodore shows concern for the human race's survival and is open to risky plans.
• Wang, an old man, suggests the "Flame-Chaser Project" and is willing to take risks.
• Francis is cautious and worried about the risks of the "Flame-Chaser Project."
• Bridget, the leader of a resistance organization, is determined but faces challenges due to the Necromancer's lackeys' increased suppression.
• Eric, a representative from the Mu Continent, is dedicated to supporting resistance organizations and gathering information.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and corruption among ruling figures.
• The struggle for survival and resistance against oppressive forces.
• The risks and consequences of taking drastic actions against powerful enemies.
• The interconnectedness of global politics and the impact of decisions on common people.

Character Interactions

• Theodore and Wang discuss the "Flame-Chaser Project," with Theodore showing disbelief and anticipation.
• Francis and Theodore debate the risks of the "Flame-Chaser Project."
• Barry and Eric, representatives from the Mu Continent, interact with Bridget, the resistance leader, showing support and gathering information.
• Resistance members and Eric work together to camouflage the truck and unload supplies.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Eric from the United Nations provides Bridget with weapons and ammunition to aid the resistance.
• Bridget and Barry plan an ambush on a convoy carrying taxes to the Necromancer.
• The ambush is successful, but the resistance fighters retreat quickly to avoid spectres, undead soldiers dispatched for reinforcement.

Character Developments

• Bridget shows strategic thinking and caution, prioritizing the survival of his resistance organization.
• Eric demonstrates sincerity and commitment to aiding the resistance.
• Barry proves valuable by providing crucial intelligence and supporting Bridget's plans.

Significant Themes

• The struggle against the Necromancer's rule and the resistance movement's fight for freedom.
• The importance of strategic planning and caution in warfare.
• The power dynamics between the United Nations, the resistance, and the Necromancer's forces.

Character Interactions

• Bridget and Eric discuss the United Nations' aid and the resistance's future.
• Bridget and Barry collaborate to plan the ambush and execute it successfully.
• The resistance fighters work together to carry out the ambush, demonstrating unity and determination.
• The private soldiers hired by the Geraldton elite show resilience and a strong will to fight, highlighting the challenges faced by the resistance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The mayor of Geraldton is urgently called to a meeting after transport convoys carrying taxes to the Necromancer are attacked.
• The mayor and dignitaries discuss how to make up the lost taxes and decide to organize new convoys with strengthened security.
• The mayor orders the encirclement and suppression of the resistance organization responsible for the attacks.

Character Developments

• The mayor of Geraldton is shown to be decisive and willing to make tough decisions to maintain the region's stability and avoid the Necromancer's wrath.
• Bridget, the leader of the resistance organization, demonstrates strategic thinking by dispersing his forces to avoid annihilation, but suffers heavy losses.
• Moros, the Necromancer, continues his magical research, transforming the Herrscher of Wind into a legendary undead and mastering [Light Magic].

Significant Themes

• The necessity of maintaining power and control to survive in a desperate era.
• The consequences of defying the Necromancer and the importance of paying taxes on time.
• The struggle between the powers-that-be and the resistance organizations.

Character Interactions

• The mayor interacts with the dignitaries, seeking their input on how to handle the situation but ultimately making the decisions himself.
• Bridget interacts with Barry, the UN special envoy, discussing their next move after suffering heavy losses.
• Moros interacts with his magical research, transforming the Herrscher of Wind into a legendary undead and delving into the study of [Armageddon] magic.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Moros completes Hanuman's transformation and dedicates himself to studying Light Magic, eventually mastering it.
• After a year and a half, Moros successfully integrates the Level 5 Destruction Magic [Armageddon] into his casting system.
• Vill-V uses the Herrscher Core of the Fourth Herrscher and Soul Steel to create a God-Slaying Weapon, the [Divine Key], for Moros.

Character Developments

• Moros: Advances to Level 33, masters Light Magic, and integrates [Armageddon] into his casting system.
• Vill-V: Develops the [Divine Key], demonstrating her creativity, wisdom, and dedication to supporting Moros.

Significant Themes

• The struggle and dedication required to master new abilities and knowledge.
• The power of determination and perseverance in the face of challenges and failures.
• The importance of safety and caution, even with increased power.

Character Interactions

• Moros and Vill-V: Their relationship deepens as they support each other's endeavors. Moros expresses concern for Vill-V's safety, while Vill-V seeks his approval for her creation.

Summary of Chapter 127-128: "Necromancer, but Pre-Honkai Civilization"

Key Plot Points and Events

• Moros and Vill-V test the [Divine Key: Staff of Thousand Winds] in the Victoria Great Desert.
• Mobius and Mei successfully complete the [Flame-Chaser Project], creating soldiers with power comparable to Herrschers.
• The Councillors of Moth to Fire shelve the project due to fear of losing power and control.
• Mobius decides to leave Moth to Fire, preparing to relocate the First Research Institute to the Australian Continent.

Character Developments

• Moros continues to test and understand the [Divine Key], expanding his powers.
• Mobius, driven by her pursuit of the [Infinite], decides to leave Moth to Fire when it hinders her research.
• Mei accepts the shelving of the [Flame-Chaser Project] for the sake of humanity's survival but is concerned about the power imbalance.

Significant Themes

• Fear of power loss and the struggle for control among the elite (Councillors of Moth to Fire).
• The pursuit of knowledge and personal goals versus the greater good (Mobius vs. Mei).
• The consequences of creating powerful beings and the potential loss of control (Flame-Chaser Warriors).

Character Interactions

• Moros and Vill-V continue their partnership, testing the [Divine Key] together.
• Mobius and Mei work together on the [Flame-Chaser Project], showcasing their scientific prowess.
• Mobius and Klein prepare for the relocation of the First Research Institute, with Klein showing loyalty to Mobius.
• Danzhu and Cangxuan, assistants to Mobius, are given a choice to join her or stay with Moth to Fire, highlighting Mobius's influence and the Spectre's intimidating presence.

Key Plot Points & Events

• Mobius decides to leave the Moth to Fire, and Danzhu and Cangxuan support her decision.
• Mobius commands Spectres to drive out Moth to Fire personnel from the First Research Institute.
• Moth to Fire Council dispatches special task forces and negotiation experts to intercept Mobius.
• Moros arrives to assist Mobius in her evacuation plan, using Skeleton Archers as labor.

Character Developments

• Mobius: Shows determination and strategic planning in her decision to leave the Moth to Fire.
• Moros: Demonstrates support for Mobius and willingness to assist her, showing his interest in her.
• Danzhu and Cangxuan: Display loyalty and support for Mobius, prioritizing her well-being over their own safety.
• Kevin, Hen, and Cosmos: Team Two members discuss their stance on the situation, showing differing views on the Councillors' power struggles.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and corruption within the Moth to Fire Council.
• Loyalty and betrayal, with characters choosing sides based on their values and beliefs.
• The struggle between personal ambition and the greater good (human civilization).

Character Interactions

• Mobius and Danzhu/Cangxuan: Mobius's decision to leave affects Danzhu and Cangxuan, who choose to support her despite the risks.
• Mobius and Moros: They reunite, and Moros expresses his support for Mobius's plan, showing interest in her.
• Team Two: Kevin, Hen, and Cosmos discuss their stance on the situation, revealing their differing views and priorities.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Moth to Fire Council orders Special Operations Teams to infiltrate the First Research Institute but calls them off upon seeing the Necromancer with Mobius.
• Mobius and her team successfully evacuate from the Mu Continent to the Australian Continent using a teleportation gate.
• Moros shows Mobius the research institute he prepared for her in Queensland, Australia.
• World leaders, upon learning of Mobius's departure, decide to use Australian resistance forces to attempt to bring her back under their control.

Character Developments

• Mobius: Realizes the power of the Necromancer's deterrence, considers him as a potential ally, and is excited about the freedom of research in the new institute.
• Moros: Demonstrates his commitment to Mobius by preparing an ideal research institute for her and providing her with an Undead Legion for protection.
• World Leaders: Show their desperation to maintain control over powerful individuals like Mobius, leading them to make risky decisions.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: The struggle for control and influence between various factions, including Moth to Fire, the United Nations, and the Necromancer.
• Research and Innovation: The value placed on cutting-edge scientific research and the desire to control those who can drive progress.
• Alliances and Trust: The importance of alliances and trust in the face of powerful enemies, as seen in Mobius's consideration of the Necromancer as a potential ally.

Character Interactions

• Mobius and Moros: Their relationship deepens as Moros shows his dedication to Mobius's work, and she begins to see him as a potential ally.
• World Leaders: They interact through discussions and decisions, demonstrating their desperation and willingness to take risks to maintain their influence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The resistance organizations' successful ambush on a convoy in Geraldton leads to a crackdown on resistance groups across Western Australia.
• Bridget's team is unable to return to Geraldton due to increased security measures.
• The UN Special Staff Department orders all resistance organizations receiving UN aid to attack Mobius's research institute in Queensland, knowing it's a suicide mission.
• The Necromancer dispatches undead legions to annihilate the gathering resistance army, starting with a surprise attack on a resistance organization on a plain near Bloo.

Character Developments

• Bridget and Barry's camaraderie deepens after two years of fighting together.
• Bridget shows anger and despair at the UN's order but quickly regains composure and discusses a plan with Barry to minimize losses.
• The Necromancer demonstrates his resolve to protect Mobius and his disdain for the resistance organizations.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between the Necromancer, the UN, and the resistance organizations.
• The struggle for survival and the consequences of defying powerful entities.
• The determination of the Necromancer to protect those he cares about.

Character Interactions

• Bridget and Barry discuss their next move, showing mutual respect and understanding.
• The Necromancer's undead legions interact with the resistance organizations, leading to a devastating battle.
• The UN Special Staff Department issues orders to resistance organizations, demonstrating their control over the resistance forces.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The undead forces, led by Sesha and Hanuman, ambush and annihilate rebel forces using long-range artillery and tornado storms.
• The Necromancer, Moros, personally intervenes and wipes out a significant resistance organization led by Bridget and Barry.
• Moros refines the souls of the defeated rebels into Low-grade Soul Crystals, a valuable resource in the Ashan World.

Character Developments

• The rebel leaders, Bridget and Barry, attempt to deceive the United Nations but ultimately fail.
• Moros demonstrates his power and ruthlessness, showing no mercy to the rebels.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between the undead forces and the rebel organizations.
• The consequences of underestimating the Necromancer's power and the undead forces.
• The value of souls and life in the context of the Ashan World's magic system.

Character Interactions

• The rebel leaders, Bridget and Barry, work together to deceive the United Nations but are ultimately defeated by Moros.
• Moros interacts with the souls of the defeated rebels, refining them into Soul Crystals.
• The generals at the United Nations Special Staff Department discuss the failure of their strategy and avoid taking responsibility.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Undead Legion's semiplane passage allows for unparalleled strategic mobility, swiftly crushing resistance forces across the Australian Continent (7 million square kilometers) in just one week.
• Over 100,000 people are executed, plunging the continent into fear and ending organized resistance.
• Moros summons dignitaries to Sydney Harbour's opera house, rewarding loyalists with vampire transformations and other rewards.
• Moros retaliates against the United Nations by sending three Category 12 tornado storms towards East Timor, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.
• The United Nations responds by tasking Moth to Fire with resolving the crisis.

Character Developments

• Moros demonstrates his power and influence, instilling fear in the dignitaries and elites, and rewarding loyalists.
• Keen and Margaret are transformed into high-tier vampires, showcasing their new power and long lifespan.
• The elites at the apex of human society's pyramid acknowledge the Necromancer's strength but remain confident in their ability to resolve the crisis.

Significant Themes

• Power and fear: Moros's display of power instills fear in those around him, ensuring loyalty and compliance.
• Rewards and consequences: Moros rewards loyalists but also exacts brutal retribution against those who defy him.
• The United Nations' response to the Necromancer's retaliation highlights their determination to maintain control and order.

Character Interactions

• Moros interacts with the dignitaries, rewarding them for their loyalty and demonstrating his power.
• The elites at the apex of human society's pyramid communicate and collaborate to address the crisis caused by Moros's retaliation.
• The Moth to Fire Council convenes to discuss countermeasures against the Necromancer's attack, showcasing their unity and determination.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Dr. Mei proposes using nuclear weapons to combat the Tornado Storms, but faces opposition from councillors.
• She then suggests negotiating with the Necromancer (Moros) for help, as he can control the storms.
• Elysia is chosen to communicate with Moros due to their ambiguous relationship.
• Moros reveals to Elysia that he created the storms to teach the United Nations a lesson.

Character Developments

• Dr. Mei demonstrates her wisdom and strategic thinking, gaining respect from the Moth to Fire Council.
• Elysia shows her dedication to saving innocent lives, even when faced with difficult truths.
• Moros struggles with the consequences of his actions and the potential fallout from revealing the truth to Elysia.

Significant Themes

• The use of extreme measures to achieve justice or teach a lesson.
• The struggle between revealing the truth and maintaining relationships.
• The consequences of one's actions and the unintended harm caused.

Character Interactions

• Dr. Mei and the Moth to Fire Council: She presents her ideas, and they respect her wisdom.
• Elysia and the Moth to Fire Council: They ask for her help in communicating with Moros.
• Elysia and Moros: She requests his help, and he reveals the truth about the storms, causing tension between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Elysia understands the complexity of the situation involving Moros's retaliation and the Tornado Storms.
• Moros agrees to calm the storms but warns he won't let the matter rest.
• Powerful figures globally prepare for Moros's retaliation, causing global tension and unrest among the populace.
• Moros begins a ritual spell to exact revenge, starting with Jeffrey, a politician involved in the plot against Elysia.

Character Developments

• Elysia: Realizes the complexity of the situation and decides not to intercede for the nobles.
• Moros: Shows willingness to compromise for Elysia's sake but remains determined to retaliate against those who threaten him.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and corruption among the elite.
• The consequences of actions driven by self-interest.
• The tension between personal relationships and duty or principle.

Character Interactions

• Elysia and Moros: Their friendship is tested by the current situation, but they both value it greatly.
• Powerful figures globally: They scramble to protect themselves, causing global unrest and tension.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jeffrey, the politician who targeted Mobius, is found dead, killed by the Necromancer's curse.
• The high-ranking officials realize the Necromancer's revenge has begun and panic.
• The Necromancer reveals to Mobius that he has killed Jeffrey and will continue his retaliation.
• Ten influential figures die overnight due to the Necromancer's curse.
• The powerful figures decide to admit defeat and negotiate with the Necromancer to avoid full-scale war.

Character Developments

• The Necromancer (Moros) demonstrates his power and determination, striking fear into the hearts of the powerful figures.
• Mobius shows concern for Moros's safety but ultimately heeds his warning about the Death Mana.
• The powerful figures, despite their arrogance, display a pragmatic side when faced with the threat to their lives, choosing to negotiate rather than risk war.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics: The Necromancer's actions shift the balance of power, forcing the powerful figures to reassess their stance.
• Fear and vulnerability: The Necromancer's curse instills fear in the powerful figures, making them aware of their own vulnerability.
• Pragmatism vs. pride: The powerful figures choose pragmatism over pride when faced with the threat of war.

Character Interactions

• Moros and Mobius: Moros shares his actions with Mobius, showing concern for her safety. Mobius, while stubborn, ultimately respects Moros's wisdom.
• The Necromancer and the powerful figures: The Necromancer's actions force the powerful figures to engage in peace talks, acknowledging his power and resolve.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Moros and human leaders reach an agreement: Moros expands his influence to the Indonesian archipelago in exchange for an apology for previous actions.
• Moros takes over Southeast Asia with minimal resistance due to the appeal of his Western European feudal ruling model.
• Moros visits Jakarta, where Elysia surprises him with a visit.
• Moros and Elysia share a tender moment, and she gifts him a Crystal Flower.

Character Developments

• Moros: Shows restraint and consideration for Elysia's feelings, abandoning his plan to use souls from the region to replenish his Soul Crystals.
• Elysia: Demonstrates affection towards Moros, visiting him unannounced and giving him a gift.

Significant Themes

• Moros's ruling style and its appeal to local powers.
• The impact of Moros's past actions on his current relationships, particularly with Elysia.
• The temporary nature of Moros's rule due to the impending Final Judgment.

Character Interactions

• Moros and Elysia: Share a moment of intimacy, with Elysia giving Moros a Crystal Flower as a gift.
• Moros and local powers: The dignitaries eagerly await Moros's arrival, anticipating their new roles under his rule.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Necromancer decides to face the Herrscher of the End directly due to Elysia and Eden's affection for the current civilization.
• Moros expounds his philosophy of rule to dignitaries in a banquet, winning their support.
• Elysia visits Moros in Jakarta, and they spend time together, experiencing the city's culture and history.
• Meanwhile, in a remote corner of the Mu Continent, the Fifth Great Collapse occurs, and the Herrscher of Ice descends, exacting revenge on her captors and heading towards Dusk Street.

Character Developments

• Moros: He chooses to protect the current civilization to accommodate Elysia and Eden's feelings, showing a softer side of his character.
• Elysia: She visits Moros to understand him better and finds relief in his indirect involvement in the destruction of human homelands. She grows closer to Moros during their time together in Jakarta.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility vs. Indirect Involvement: Elysia's relief in Moros's indirect involvement in destruction highlights the theme of responsibility and its nuances.
• Power and Governance: Moros's method of governance, similar to feudalism, shows how power dynamics influence societal structures.
• Revenge and Redemption: The Herrscher of Ice's descent and actions emphasize the themes of revenge and the consequences of past sins.

Character Interactions

• Moros and Elysia: Their interactions in Jakarta show a growing affection and understanding between them, with Elysia becoming more at ease with Moros's past actions.
• The Herrscher of Ice and Kalpas: Their encounter hints at potential future interactions or conflicts, as Kalpas is a significant character in the Ashan world.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Fifth Great Collapse ends abruptly with the Herrscher of Ice's instant defeat by an unknown entity.
• The Moth to Fire confirms the Herrscher's death but suspects it wasn't their doing or the Necromancers'.
• Moros, the Necromancer, learns about the Herrscher Core and decides to seize it, instructing Councillor William to negotiate with the Moth to Fire for biological tissue.

Character Developments

• Moros: Shows his determination to obtain the Herrscher Core, even by illicit means, revealing his flexible moral compass.
• Councillor William: Maintains his position as a Moth to Fire councillor, acting as Moros' representative for negotiations.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics: Moros' disregard for the Moth to Fire's wishes highlights the power imbalance between them.
• Moral ambiguity: Moros' willingness to steal the Herrscher Core raises questions about his ethics and those of his faction.

Character Interactions

• Moros and Councillor William: Their relationship is further solidified as Moros uses William to gather information and make negotiations with the Moth to Fire.
• The Moth to Fire Council: They express concern and anxiety over the unknown force that defeated the Herrscher, leading to internal discussions about cooperation or confrontation.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Moros, the Necromancer, seeks the Herrscher Core of the Herrscher of Ice, but is hindered by political intrigue and the need to avoid direct control of high-ranking humans.
• He decides to study Legendary Spells in the Graveyard faction's Magic Guild Level 5 to prepare for the upcoming threat of the Herrscher of the End.
• Meanwhile, on the planet watched over by the Cocoon of Finality, the white-haired man (Kalpas) wakes up in a sanatorium after being rescued.

Character Developments

• Moros shows determination in his quest for the Herrscher Core and willingness to make tough decisions for the greater good.
• Kalpas, despite his injuries, is eager to leave the sanatorium, hinting at his independent and strong-willed nature.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for power and information, with Moros navigating political intrigue to achieve his goals.
• The importance of preparation and knowledge, as Moros dives into studying Legendary Spells to face the impending threat.
• The theme of resilience and determination, seen in both Moros's persistence and Kalpas's eagerness to leave the sanatorium despite his injuries.

Character Interactions

• Moros's interactions with the elites and his decision-making process show his cunning and strategic thinking.
• Kalpas's interaction with Qi, the caregiver, reveals his disregard for his own well-being and his urgency to leave the sanatorium.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Kalpas, a mysterious injured man, arrives at a nursing home in Dusk Street.
• Qi, the manager, tries to engage Kalpas in conversation, but Kalpas is unfriendly and reveals little.
• Apponia, the nursing home's owner, learns of Kalpas's awakening and decides to meet him.
• Moros, the Necromancer, learns of Kalpas's location and sends spectres to obtain his tissue samples from discarded bandages.

Character Developments

• Kalpas: Initially unfriendly and unwilling to share information, he shows interest in staying at the nursing home after learning about Apponia's influence.
• Apponia: Displaying kindness and compassion, she tries to understand and help Kalpas, despite his cold demeanor.
• Moros: Showing strategic thinking, he sends spectres to gather Kalpas's tissue samples without directly confronting him.

Significant Themes

• Trust and Communication: Kalpas's initial reluctance to share information contrasts with Apponia's open and caring approach, highlighting the importance of trust and communication.
• Power and Influence: Apponia's reputation and influence in Dusk Street are demonstrated, showing how her presence protects the nursing home from local thugs.
• Strategic Thinking: Moros's actions showcase his strategic mind, as he avoids direct confrontation with Kalpas and uses spectres to gather information.

Character Interactions

• Kalpas and Qi: Kalpas's cold and dismissive attitude towards Qi contrasts with Qi's friendly and patient demeanor.
• Apponia and Kalpas: Apponia's kindness and understanding towards Kalpas, despite his initial hostility, shows her compassion and patience.
• Moros and Kalpas: Although they haven't met yet, Moros's actions indicate his interest in Kalpas, viewing him as a potential resource rather than an ally.