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Ok, I admit that I've failed somewhere before. But anyway welcome. Just a brief intro on what you should expect here:
1. Football. Not gonna post much of that any soon since season is over. :S
2. Anime, Games, etc. Just abt anything conceivable under the Japanese radar barring anything and everything Rule 34. Now that's illegal. Period. -.-;
3. Music. Everything to do with it is listed under the tab.
5. Unacceptable humour: Anything and everything is fair game here. As long as I don't get rounded up by the ISA. -.-'

6.
The Known World=Fantasy world building in process. I: Used to be glossary, now devoted to random rambling; II: Character Concepts; III: Lore.
7. der Wolf=my Fictionpress account under the moniker Tsumujikaze no Soujutsu. A Ranger's Tale is hosted under this page. :)
8. New section now upped. Maybe I should also gun for upping A Ranger's Tale here since I do have this funny feeling that traffic coming to here is way more than whatever I'll get in FP.

Statement of intent: Everything said here is a figment of personal opinion, be it me or anybody commenting. I try to be responsible, but my parents=/=parents of the world.

@Druid of Luhn: Crap. Should have remembered far earlier to give you the credit for your CSS text box code. :(

A/N: But sadly, it seems that your CSS text box code has now been halved efficiency wise. :(

That most important note I should have added: Any images posted in this blog are NOT my own stuff. I got them from Google image search, I don't earn any shit by being a thief and liar. Those responsible for the pictures, rest assured that you all are great artists in your own regards. Sadly, we all know what limited space means in terms of posting.

Latest Note: Changed alignment for my page widgets due to my worry that I can't centre align the thing.

Note on A Ranger's Tale: In case any complaining fella wants to have a legal case with me, let this be known that A Ranger's Tale is rated M by default. I've upped the swearing and somewhat a bit on the dark/gritty factor. You all have been warned, let no little boy and girl enter the forbidden realm.

Latest on ART: A Ranger's Tale now starting to kick back in gear. But I really hate the insanely fluctuating climate here in S'pore.

P.S: Oh, and one more thing. Vid below is yet another ideal OP for A Ranger's Tale.

Thursday 27 March 2014

Decided to write something before going to sleep...

Actually, that's b/c I feel like writing some more stuff for Skies of Arven.

Stats breakdown
HP-Affects how much damage can be taken until defeated
End-Reduce amount of damage suffered without taking into account PDEF
Hit-Affects accuracy rate
Crit-Affects chances of critical hit
Agility-Affects chances of attacking first and number of attacks allowed at a time.
Dodge-Affects chances of dodging attacks
Block-Affects chances of blocking attacks
PATK-Affects amount of damage dealt with weapons
PDEF-Affects amount of damage suffered against PATK
MATK-Affects the effect of any Magic cast
MDEF-Affects resistance to Magic

Further breakdown
1. PATK is greatly affected by the kind of weapon equipped.
2. PDEF is decided by the type of armour worn.
3. MATK can be affected by any kind of equipment worn so long said equipment is specifically reserved for the Mage class.
4. Same goes for MDEF.
5. Note that if any equipment is Mage specific, it means only a Mage can use it.
6. Critical hit is counted as damage dealt x 1.5.
7. Accuracy rate is affected by both Block and Dodge stats.
8. Dodge affects all kinds of attacks so long direct damage is involved.
9. Block affects the chances of taking no damage if unable to dodge.
10. Block can only affect PATK attacks.
11. Resistance to Magic basically means affecting the extent of damage/debuff duration upon being targeted.

Stats level/growth
1. All stats carry a certain amount individually.
2. Stats will level up after relevant equipment is upgraded.
3. Stats growth applies when character levels up (not to be confused with stats level).

General list of equipment affecting stats
1. Weapons affect PATK/MATK
2. Armour affect PDEF/MDEF
3. Boots affect Agility and Dodge
4. Accessories can affect any stats
5. Shields affect Block (note that shields can also appear via Magic)
6. Stats which generally cannot be affected by any equipment list as below:
Crit, Hit, End and HP
(note that accessories are excluded from this rule)
7. Every equipment will indicate which class can use it

To be cont'd...

Wednesday 26 March 2014

Originally this was the plan...

Tried to write new chapter of ART, realised that certain things happening recently beyond the S'porean shore had successfully hampered me. Doubt I need to elaborate, no mood to write anything cynical.

So what to write then?
Maybe I should make Skies of Arven into a RPG while ART remains as a written work? Note that everything written below is purely a matter of concepts unless Mistwalker studio decides to pay me a little visit. Yes, this is me dreaming like a someone high on meth.
Limpeh's note: Limpeh only add this pic 4 teh lolz

Basics
1. Can only have at most 5 members in your party.
2. Can have up till 2 characters as your reserves.
3. In the event where any member is defeated, a reserve character will replaced that character.
4. Order of reserve characters replacing any fallen party member must be decided by the gamer, i.e. who goes first.
5. Planned PCs include Ein, Syvia Honne and Raior Stormclap.
6. NPCs can join your party under specific circumstances once you made the relevant in-game choices.
7. Every PC and NPC alike fall under any of the 4 classes below:

Warrior-This class is able to both dish out and receive punishment. The only class allowed to wear heavy armour.

Stats level/growth
Highest:
PATK, PDEF, HP

High:
End, Block

Medium:
Crit, Hit

Poor:
Agility, Dodge

Lowest:
MATK, MDEF

Archer-This class is the only one in any party able to deal physical attacks from afar. One of the only two classes allowed to equip with ranged weapons.

Stats level/growth
Highest:
Hit, Crit

High:
Agility

Medium:
PATK, MATK, MDEF

Poor:
HP, End, Dodge

Lowest:
Block, PDEF


Striker-This class is considered the all-rounder in terms of gameplay. Can equip all types of one handed weapons, most types of shields and ranged weapons.

Stats level/growth
Highest:
Dodge, PATK, End

High:
Hit, HP, Agility

Medium:
Crit, Block

Poor:
MDEF

Lowest:
MATK, PDEF

Mage-The only class able to use Magic. Can either use for support, attack or both.

Stats level/growth
Highest:
MATK, MDEF, Hit, Crit

High:
Dodge

Medium:
Agility

Poor:
HP, End, Block

Lowest:
PATK, PDEF

To be cont'd...
b/c I now need to tidoh....
zzzzzzzz

Ideal [?] OP

Monday 24 March 2014

Skies of Arven Character Bio Pt 2

Nothing to add, brain can't function, got an imminent feeling that I very damn suay. Sorry Kak-Ros. Once suay, scally forever suay. :P

A/N-One more thing, this is for you Salty Fish: I'm gonna pirate Eric Chen Guangsheng's copyright quote here, listen carefully...
咸鱼,你死定了。


Syvia Honne

Capable of speech, yet born to be silent. Able to laugh and cry, yet cursed without feelings.


Age: 15
Hair color: Auburn
Hairstyle: Shoulder length with the front parted towards one side
Eye color: Amber
Physique: Petite and slim

Homeland: Freyea

Likes: Cats
Dislikes: Men who judged women by beauty; idealism
Personality quirk: Will always communicate with sign language despite physicians finding nothing physically wrong with her.
Personality strength: Incredible mental fortitude capable of putting even the strongest of men to shame.
Personal weakness: Has never spoke a word before since birth; has emotions, but unable to feel a thing for others.
(Both traits will always cause communication literally impossible.)

Profession: Shaman
Weapon: Staff
Technique base: Magic support; Magic damage; Lightning Element.
Technique focus: Sudden surge in any given effect.

Streik:
Dirge of the World
Levitates in mid air while maintaining a state of trance, after which a giant sword of purple energy descends from the gaping sky with its tip pointing down. Capable of razing one entire village belonging to the Surface and even annihilating an average sized Heaven. While devastating, the maximum range of this Streik varies at random.

Bio:
Born in the Heaven of Freyea, Syvia was destined to have the finest of everything. Alas an unfortunate event struck her mother, said disaster forever a matter of mystery. Some said Lady Nille Honne was seduced by an Incubus, other whispered she's in fact a Succubus. Then there were those believing rumours of a changeling supplanting the real Syvia Honne. No matter whatever word spoken, one thing was certain: Syvia Honne couldn't speak despite the physician's diagnosis stating otherwise, the same went for her lack of emotions. Gaining very little friends and plenty of scorn, Syvia was extremely wary towards any potential suitors. Yet all nobles male and female must be engaged by the age of sixteen, this was something earning Syvia's silent resentment. Neither able to speak out nor to feel, Syvia decided end her own life by plunging down to the Surface below. This was just before her drake reached the Heaven of Frae where she would be forever chained. As if both blessed and cursed by the Hallowed Three, Syvia miraculously survived, only to encounter a barbaric race proud and fierce. This was where that lone wolf merely a few years older caught her attention: Ein.

To be cont'd...

Saturday 22 March 2014

I break my oath, I bastardo [Pt Dos]

Nothing to say, I now waiting for the day where I shall be officially betrayed by Salty Fish, be it for better or worse. :P

[先主为汉中王,犹领益州牧,以权为治中从事,及称尊号,将东伐吴,权谏曰:“吴人悍战,又水军顺流,进易退难,臣请为先驱以当寇,陛下宜为后镇。”
先主不从,以权为镇北将军,督江北军以防魏师。先主自在江南。及吴将军陆议乘流断围,南军败绩,先主引退。而道隔绝,权不得还,故率将所领降于魏。有司执法,白收权妻子。先主曰:“孤负黄权,权不负孤也。”
待之如初。]
《三国志;黄权传》

Trans:
[Upon declaring himself as the King of Hanzhong and renewing his status as the Governor of Yi Province, the First Lord made Quan the Attendant of Disciplinary Affairs. After establishing the Shu Han dynasty while preparing to make war against Wu, Quan advised: "The men of Wu are fierce fighters. Moreover, our forces shall be travelling downstream. Hence it's easy for us to advance, yet difficult for us to fall back. Thus, Your Majesty's humble vassal is willing to be the vanguard in order to test the enemy, for it is prudent for Your Majesty to lead the rear army."
The First Lord refused this counsel. Instead he made Quan the General who Defends the North in a bid to defend against any attacks from Wei while the First Lord remained at Jiangnan. Upon the Wu general Lu Yi breaching the lines via riding the river currents, the southern army were routed and the First Lord was forced to retreat. Alas for Quan, the path leading back was cut off. Unable to return, he could only lead his men to surrender to Wei. The relevant court authorities then proceeded to arrest Quan's wife without cause. Yet, the First Lord lamented: "It was I who wronged Quan, not the other way round."
Hence treating Quan's family as his own.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Huang Quan》

Personal analysis:
Kak-Ros once told me not to use the word suay. Unfortunately, Huang Quan was really this damn suay. Firstly, allow me to say that Huang Quan's post was one wielding immense power within the central government. We all know what is an anti-corruption agency, but do we know what the Minister of Anti-Corruption does? Yeah, I know there's no such minister post existent in this modern times, but during ancient China, a clean government was especially important to both the people and government. To put it in my own Singlish (since Singlish seems to have gotten a positive spin to its otherwise notoriously broken rep), "Wu limpeh, wu chenghu. Boh limpeh, boh chenghu."

In short, Huang Quan's power scope was a case of quality overriding quantity. So why did Liu Bei reject Huang Quan's advice? imo the reason is very simple: Because Huang Quan was local talent indispensable. You see, it's quite easy for us to say his counsel was a sound one. Yet, leading the vanguard is a decision tantamount to hunting down Osama Bin Laden in his homeland while the Taliban are strong. Liu Bei could easily risk anyone, but NOT Huang Quan. This was why he opted to deploy his best man further up north where participation in conflict would be at its lowest. After all, no one told Huang Quan to declare war on that little usurper in the name of Han. This was also why Liu Bei refused to indulge that "whoever" bastardo when it came to the worst possible situation. In fact, I won't be surprised if said bastardo was out to do Huang Quan in just because a certain somebody happened to be el bastardo de imparcialidad.

In fact, Pei Songzhi said it aptly below.

[臣松之以为汉武用虚罔之言,灭李陵之家,刘主拒宪司所执,宥黄权之室,二主得失县邈远矣。诗云“乐只君子,保艾尔后”,其刘主之谓也。]

I can't be bothered to translate it because I need to sleep asap. To put in a nutshell, Pei Songzhi was comparing Liu Bei with the Wu Emperor of Han while Huang Quan was compared with Li Ling. We're talking about exact circumstances, different outcomes. In fact, the poetry verse used to reflect Liu Bei's sentiments goes something like this: "Only righteous men would be joyful towards your children spared."

[魏文帝谓权曰:“君舍逆效顺,欲追从陈、韩邪?”
权对曰:“臣过受刘主殊遇,降吴不可。还蜀无路,是以归命。且败军之将,免死为幸,何古人之可慕也!”
文帝善之,拜为镇南将军,封育阳候,加侍中,使之陪乘。蜀降人或云诛权妻子,权知其虚言,未便发丧,后得审问,果如所言。]
《三国志;黄权传》

Trans:
[The Wen Emperor of Wei asked Quan: "By forsaking the rebellious and serving the just, are you trying to emulate the likes of Chen (Ping) and Han (Xin)?"
Quan answered: "I have received my lord's benevolent treatment, thus surrendering to Wu was never an option. Alas there was no way back to Shu, thus my decision to defect. Moreover, it's good enough for an enemy general defeated to be granted mercy. How then can I dare comparing myself with men of renown?"
The Wen Emperor was delighted at the reply. Therefore, he made Huang Quan the General who Defends the South and Marquis of Yuyang. On top of that, he also became the Central Chamberlain with the privilege of accompanying him (Cao Pi). When surrendered soldiers from Shu started saying that Quan's wife had been executed, Huang Quan saw through their deception. Refusing to mourn, his conclusion was proven right upon questioning.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Huang Quan》

[汉魏春秋曰:文帝诏令发丧,权答曰:“臣与刘、葛推诚相信,明臣本志。疑惑未实,请须后问。”]

Trans:
[Annotations from the Annals of Han-Wei: When the Wen Emperor ordered a decree for mourning, Quan replied: "There has always been mutual trust between your lowly vassal, Liu (Bei) and Zhuge (Liang). They understood my difficulties, therefore I beseech Your Majesty to ask no more till the truth is out."]

Personal analysis:
Again, Huang Quan's super imba analysis came into play once more. We all know it's easy to trust those around us. But should they be worthy of that 24/7? Huang Quan was not one to be bluffed by rumours. Let me analyse how Huang Quan saw through the ruse.
Factor 1-If they never witnessed anything, it means they shouldn't even be telling you all sorts of cock and bull grandfather stories. It's just like imagining the jury saying "oh, let's sentence this bloke to death since human beings are incapable of lying". No, this parallel is NOT funny due to real life examples being done at the expense of every tax payer's hard earned money.
Factor 2-Huang Quan trusted Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang because he knew exactly what kind of people they are. The rest are just bloody kah-kia and extra one.
Factor 3-To prove once and for all that Liu Bei was never a permanent dick prone to mood swings and error, guess again what was Huang Quan's political status back then?

In fact during Liu Bei's short time sitting on his own comfortable iron throne, Huang Quan's highest status might be much more than just the Minister of Anti-Corruption. In the Accounts of the First Lord, Huang Quan was revealed to be the Chief of Imperial Affairs (光禄勋). In short, said post also granted him power over the royal guards and attendants. [1]

[及先主薨问至,魏群臣咸贺而权独否。文帝察权有局量,欲试惊之,遣左右诏权,末至之间,累催相属,马使奔驰,交错于道,官属侍从莫碎魄,而权举止颜色自若。]
《三国志;黄权传》

[When the First Lord passed away, all the vassals of Wei were joyful except for Quan. The Wen Emperor sensed that Quan was one with capacity before any situation, hence deciding to test him. After summoning Quan, he sent horsemen galloping to and fro around Quan. Those following Quan went pale with fear, yet Quan managed to retain his calm.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Huang Quan》

Personal analysis:
Cao Pi, by then, realised that Huang Quan's self restraint was ridiculously imba. It's just like imagining that stupid Speed of Asuryan rule for High Elves being super broken for Warhammer Fantasy Battle 7th Ed. [2] In a bid to psycho this pandai orang baik, he decided to troll this sibeh suay bugger 4 teh lolz. A lot have been said on Zhuge Liang's error in appointing Ma Su to defend Jieting. [3] Ma Su's problem wasn't down to whether he's stupid. iirc Chen Shou actually lauded him as a genius in administering military proposals. Rather, his capacity to lead was extremely limited, hence Liu Bei telling Zhuge Liang NOT to use Ma Su greatly. Huang Quan was also more of decision maker than a commander. Yet, it was how he reacted towards adverse situations that set him apart from the rest. [4]

[后领益州刺史,徙占河南。大将军司马宣王深器之,问权曰:“蜀中有卿辈几人?”
权笑而答曰:“不图明公见顾之重也!”
宣王与诸葛亮书曰:“黄公衡,快士也,每坐起叹述足下,不去口实。”]
《三国志;黄权传》

I'm also not gonna translate this due to time running short. What I'm gonna say is the fact that if you manage to gain respect from someone like Sima Yi, it means you're truly somebody. It's just like imagining a certain Eddie "that knight with very little beard" Howe earning José "O Especial" Mourinho's appreciation. In fact, Sima Yi actually told Zhuge Liang in a letter that Huang Gongheng was indeed a straightforward man at heart. Something proven by how he (i.e. Huang Quan himself) always spoke about Zhuge Liang himself.

Conclusion:
I'm not gonna do the rest b/c I really need ZZZZ now. What I will say is this-Huang Quan was, without a doubt, a master of perception. In any given situation, it's easy to keep tabs on unwanted details. Yet, every problem will always have its own starting point. It's like envisioning how Guy of the Street Fighter fame might win his matches in-plot. I deal you that one decisive hit, you confirm GG. [5] If you can retain focus on what TRULY defines the situation at hand, it means you're capable of finding the correct solution. Period.

[1]: To put this in a certain Nanny Wee's own words, Huang Quan was definitely a dua-hoot in the chenghu. Guess this was why Cao Pi gave him a similar post.
[2]: And speaking of that, has the army book for Wood Elves come out yet for 8th Ed? Have to say this even though gameplay balance has nerfed badly ALL units with Skirmish rule.
[3]: We all know the story by now ffs.
[4]: Actually come to thin of it, it really feels weirdly like Go Dok-Mi kenna psycho by plenty of bitches. Only catch? I really feel surreal using this weird parallel. She Hulk is gonna have fun w/me the next time we meet. >.<
[5]: Please don't quote anyone from Capcom on whatever I've said. That is apart from whatever stated in canon.

P.S: Funny that Chen Shou seemed to enjoy mentioning Huang Quan's wife and NOT his children. Damn suay fella must be a really good husband.

[  ] [  ] [  ] [  ] [  ] [  ]

巴西阆中出俊才,年幼之时为郡吏
季玉之敬封主簿,文韬武略黄公衡
先主挥兵据守之,广汉之地无将侵
无奈先是偏将军,张鲁兵败识良机
藩夷二王兴军乱,敏思之道不离实
镇军宛如铁石城,知局决策似利剑
先主自叹君负臣,惜哉奇人志未酬

Friday 21 March 2014

I break my oath, I bastardo...

Apparently, I've said somewhere/somehow in FB that I won't write up any history post till I get a gf. As my current record stand, El Bastardo is still certified SDU.* Therefore, might as well quit wanking over any thoughts of potential gf.
*For those certified bodoh kambing putih, S stands for Single, D is for Despondent, U means Undesirable.**
**I finally upgraded your definition of SDU, Mr Leow. GESS season 95/96 ftw.

Also a few things noted by limpeh
1. A certain churchmate Y seems to have aged 5 yrs in reverse despite being a father himself soon. Y, I know you to be a very serious person during our years in the youth fellowship. Why ah?
2. Pastor T seems to... well, experience a wee bit of personality change also I guess....
3. Salty Fish, may I know why must go prawning during daytime? You dunno my Sat working hrs so damned suay one meh? Some more our cell group less than 15 and you still can say "one rod for two people hor!"
4. She Hulk was uncharacteristically placid. At the same time, she also uncharacteristically turned green against President Ah-lee-bama.
5. Realised FB start to have plenty of ppl I don't know, but who have at least 1 mutual friend indicated. Scariest shit ever? Same logic goes for whoever within the relevant dept.

So who shall be my chosen one since I tend to favour all the ulu ulu ppl?
A certain ex AS1 by the name of Steve Ang once famously asked me this: "Kuok, how come all the video games you like are all the ones nobody knows one?" Likewise, I bet not many people actually understood the greatness of another Bastardo.

Therefore, might as well pull off another ulu-job, this time round my choice even more damn ulu...

镇北敏思,筹画有方,
导师禳秽,遂事成章。
偏任东隅,末命不祥,
哀悲本志,放流殊疆。

Trans:
An agile mind was he who Defends the North, he was always an able planner,
He disciplined the immoral, his success was absolute.
Tasked with mission along the East, his imminent fate undeserved,
Alas for convictions unfulfilled, his end tantamount to exile.

Above poem is NOT by me. This was part of Yang Xi's poetry works lauding the deceased great men throughout the Shu Han history. Due to Chen Shou being part of Shu Han, 'tis only natural for us to see this kind of literature stuff in the Records of Three Kingdoms. [1]

So why was Huang Quan deemed special? Firstly and foremost, I invoked his name in a post quite unrelated. Proof that me no lying. Secondly, Liu Bei had always seen him as a talent indispensable.

Brief intro
[黄权,字公衡,巴西阆中人也。少为郡吏,州牧刘璋召为主簿。]
《三国志;黄权传》

Trans:
[Huang Quan, styled Gongheng, was a native belonging to Langzhong of Baxi. During his youth, he was already made a county official. Afterwards, the provincial governor Liu Zhang summoned him to be his Chief Secretary.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Huang Quan》

Personal analysis:
Chen Shou didn't mince his words when he talked about Huang Quan's capability. On one hand, he's absurdly gifted when it came to organising (hence being a high ranking local official during his youth). On the other end, his style name implies an upright character full of impartiality and sound judgment (note that Gongheng [公衡] literally translates into "fair [impartial] and well-balanced [sound judgment/prudent in judgment]"). While plenty has already been said on Liu Zhang being an idiot, we must also acknowledge that his only problem lies in using people with various colours of integrity. This is why in his Longzhong Thesis [隆中对], Zhuge Liang stated that the Yi Province is full of talented individuals. On one hand, we have non-problematic talents cursed with problematic personality [e.g. Pang Xi (庞羲), Zhang Song (张松), Li Yan (李严) and Fa Zheng (法正)]. Yet, there were also undoubted talents blessed with undoubted integrity [e.g. Cheng Ji (程畿). Liu Ba (刘巴) and Yan Yan (NOT Yeo Yann Yann of the Ilo Ilo fame, but this old bloke>>严颜)]. Huang Quan quite obviously belongs to the latter type.

So what is a Chief Secretary? By my own estimation, a Chief Secretary was someone tasked with organising administrative affairs. Or more specifically drafting vital documents while assuming total command in all things written and confidential. At the same time, this was also a post tasked with safekeeping and organising properly each and every piece of document. Not to mention if your big boss' royal seal goes MIA, someone upstairs is in a very big trouble. [2]

Note: This is somewhat different from the Imperial Secretary (尚书/尚书令) where such post's actual power lies in all things documentation WITHIN the imperial jurisdiction (note: Because the ancient Chinese were quite anal over details and more details, they tend to separate administrative issues into local (i.e. provincial), central (i.e. the government) and imperial (i.e. privy only to the highest authority). Huang Quan's status most likely falls into the former two categories (albeit if this was assuming no one held the Imperial Secretary post. And no, Fa Zheng wasn't one until Liu Bei declared himself as Dat Bawss of Hanzhong [汉中王]).

How to deal with national crisis even before it starts
[时别驾张松建议,宜迎先主,使伐张鲁。权谏曰:“左将军有骁名,今请到,欲以部曲遇之,则不满其心,欲以宾客礼待,则一国不容二君。若容有泰山之安,则主有累卵之危。可但闭境,以待河清。”]
《三国志;黄权传》

Trans:
[At that time, Zhang Song, the Provincial Escort, suggested to Liu Zhang that they should welcome Liu Bei in order to attack Zhang Lu. Quan, however, voiced his objection, saying thus: "The Left General (i.e. Liu Bei) is one with a repute for valour. If we are to welcome him with troops prepared, we'll end up risking his displeasure. If we are to welcome him with hospitality, we must take heed that no country can ever harbour two kings. If we are to compromise in the name of stability, rightful authority will be undermined. Let us then seal off the border in order to clarify whatever upcoming situation."]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Huang Quan》

Personal analysis:
This is where we start seeing how much of an imba analyser Huang Quan turned out to be. Take note that Huang Quan did NOT say "hey, let's shut out that lying S.O.B 4 teh lulz!"

Rather, he was advocating a wait and see approach. While Zhang Song was all about pulling a fatal wedgie over Zhang Lu's power up north (note: Zhang Lu was the ruler of Hanzhong). Every Three Kingdoms buff will tell you how deep was the bad blood between Liu Zhang and Zhang Lu. Recently, there was a political brouhaha over some decision to honour two war heroes in a manner equivalent to... well, I dunno how to phrase this. What I'm trying to say is NOT about whether those involved are a bunch of dicks. Rather, whatever stakes placed on the table was 10 x higher. Is it any wonder to see this coming from Zhang Song himself?

As for Huang Quan's POV, he saw the necessity behind an effective self-defence policy/decision made. This was the reason behind his analysis, that such an extreme measure was something posing forth extreme risks. You can try pissing a powerful neighbour off, but that's provided you know who are Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun and Chen Dao. This was why he suggested a pseudo middle stance where preventing hostile reinforcement became the number one priority. [3]

Conclusion: Sucks to be you
[璋不听,竟遣使迎先生,出权为广汉长,及先主袭取益州,将帅分下郡县。郡县风景附,权闭城坚守,须刘璋稽服,乃诣降先主。先主假权偏将军。]
《三国志;黄权传》

Trans:
[Not only did Zhang refuse heeding advice, he even sent envoys to welcome the First Lord (i.e. Liu Bei) while sending Quan away to Guanghan as its head official. When the First Lord attacked Yi Province by deploying his forces unto the surrounding settlements, all chose to surrender promptly. Only Quan chose to shut the gates and mount a stubborn defence. In the end, it took Zhang's persuasion to convince him to surrender. The First Lord then made him a de-facto Brigadier General.]

《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Huang Quan》

Trans:
It truly sucks to be Huang Quan. Firstly, his boss rejected his advice. Then said boss sent envoys to welcome that once and future king. Note that this was the highest show of respect during ancient times, it's quite a bit like Barack Obama sending Joe Biden to welcome Vladimir Putin on American soil. As if it's not enough, Huang Quan got brutally demoted to where he first began his career, namely a local official.

One interesting part is that Guanghan's geographical location was within the inland area compared to borderland settlements like Yufu, Baxi or Jiangyang. What this means is very simple: Since the Yi Province was a certified basin terrain, it's only natural for the latter areas to be more easily defensible. In fact, Guanghan's terrain is mainly flat with very little high ground. Even if Huang Quan was to concentrate his forces within a city (and via the actual wording, he did DO that), it would take an immense show of leadership to convince every man not to throw down their arms and armour. The greatest problem? Plenty of his counterparts did just that.

Fast forward to the aftermath and what was Liu Bei's decision? Giving a loyal bastard some de-facto power with actual value being nothing next to shit? Remember who was the incumbent Brigadier General back then, folks. In case you forgot, his surname was Zhao. Seriously, Liu Bei was being a dick who was ten times worse than Liu Zhang. [4] At least if anyone wishes to defend Liu Zhang's jerkass decision, I can empathise with the need not to create unwanted conflict (hey, Huang Quan did have major suspicions on Liu Bei's intent, something which he ended up 120% spot on). Still...

Fortune favours the long suffering
[及曹公破张鲁,鲁走入巴中,权进曰:“若失汉中,则三巴不振,此为割蜀之股臂也。”
于是先主以权为护军,率诸将迎鲁,鲁已还南郑,北降曹公。]
《三国志;黄权传》

Trans:
[Upon being defeated by Duke Cao, Zhang Lu managed to escape unto Bazhong. Hence, Quan advising: "If we are to lose Hanzhong, the three lands of Ba will suffer. By then, this would be tantamount to severing Shu downwards from the arm."
Thus, the First Lord appointed Quan as the Army Protector in order to lead his generals in receiving Lu. Alas by then,  Lu had already headed back to Nanzheng offering his surrender to Duke Cao.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Huang Quan》

Personal analysis:
Finally, Liu Bei heeded Huang Quan's advice. However, Zhang Lu was a step faster in running back with a white flag in hand. Two interesting facts here:
1. Hanzhong was one of Yi Province's three bulwarks, the other two being Chencang [陈仓] and Longxi [陇西]. Since both territories were already under Cao Cao's control by now, leaving Hanzhong untended would be unimaginable. In fact, just below Hanzhong would be the three lands of Ba. Namely Bazhong (the central part stretching from south up till inland), Badong (the eastern bulwark responsible for repelling any invasions from the east especially Sun Quan) and Baxi (the northern most tip adjoining Hanzhong). Therefore, Huang Quan's somewhat visceral parallel was 100% spot on.
2. The Army Protector had always been a major military title boasting a major military power. I believe I've said it more than one time before, but allow me to say this once again. To be an Army Protector means you'll have the unfettered power to allocate manpower and supervising every general under your scope of command, no matter how high any given general's power.

[然卒破杜濩、朴胡,杀夏候渊,据汉中,皆权本谋也。]
《三国志;黄权传》

Trans:
[Yet, defeating abruptly Du Hu and Fu Hu, slaying of Xiahou Yuan and occupying Hanzhong... these strategies all first came from Quan.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Huang Quan》

Personal analysis:
While it's true that Fa Zheng had always been Liu Bei's chief military adviser, Huang Quan was the one who first came up with the proposal and necessary measures. If Fa Zheng had any role to play in all three, it would most likely be hands on planning (hence, his go-ahead command in unleashing Huang Zhong's wrath at Mt Dingjun). As for occupying Hanzhong, it's basically him suggesting this.

What's truly mystifying is the first example. Why got two extra come and chap siao one? Why must Huang Quan say "eh, boss. We confirm must bust these two lobos' karcheng one."

Flashpoint 1: Shit happens, folks.
[九月,巴七姓夷王朴胡、賨邑侯杜濩举巴夷、賨民来附,于是分巴郡,以胡为巴东太守,濩为巴西太守,皆封列侯。]
《三国志;武帝纪》

Trans:
[During the ninth month, the barbarian chieftains Fu Hu and Du Hu stirred up their people and led them to swear allegiance. Hence, the land of Ba was fractured with Fu Hu as the Grand Administrator of Badong and Du Hu the Grand Administrator of Baxi. Both were made marquises.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Record of the Wu Emperor》

Personal analysis:
When above mentioned scenario happened, it was during Zhang Lu's brief stay down south. Apparently, he already harboured plans to defect up north. So why should he swear loyalty to Liu Bei? Confirm bodoh one right? I personally believe it's due to his merry history with Liu Zhang amounting to personal grudges [5], this might be why he chose Cao Cao instead.

Put two and two together, what is the answer you'll get? Surely not five, but four. By stirring up trouble prior to signing his surrender treaty, Zhang Lu can be forgiven for being a dick.

[郃别督诸军,降巴东、巴西二郡,徙其民于汉中。]
《三国志;张郃传》

Trans:
[He led a separate contingent, thus successfully subjugating Badong and Baxi as a result and moving the residents to Hanzhong.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of Zhang He》

[曹公使夏侯渊、张郃屯汉中,数数犯暴巴界。]
《三国志;先主传》

Trans:
[Duke Cao stationed Xiahou Yuan and Zhang He at Hanzhong, their forces invading the lands of Ba numerous times.]
《Record of the Three Kingdoms; Accounts of the First Lord》

If above few verses ain't enough make you people understand, then no hope for humanity.

To be cont'd...

[1]: Albeit I do have legitimate grounds in suspecting the Jin administration hell bent in covering up vital credit earned by some of Liu Bei's vassals especially Zhao Yun and Fa Zheng. As of now, only three amigos managed to make a fool out of Cao Cao and we all know Sima Yan was fiercely pro-Wei despite being an incapable dick.
[2]: A quote made famous by my (ex) OA of Wales. ;)
[3]: If sealing off the border=/=preventive measure, I dunno what else is. Still don't believe, go ask DPRK.
[4]: In fact withiin Pei Songzhi's annotations, Xu Zhong lamented that Liu Bei's treatment of Huang Quan despite a capable show of integrity and military leadership was merely a token appreciation. In the same breath, he managed to compare this with King Wu of Zhou getting down from his carriage to pay highest respects before Bi Gan's grave. In a nutshell, if King Wu was able to do something which Liu Bei wasn't willing to under similar/exact circumstances, then...
Proof that I'm not lying-[徐众评曰:权既忠谏于主,又闭城拒守,得事君之礼。武王下车,封比干之墓,表商容之闾,所以大显忠贤之士,而明示所贵之旨。先主假权将军,善矣,然犹薄少,未足彰忠义之高节,而大劝为善者之心。]

Thursday 20 March 2014

Skies of Arven Character Bio Pt 1

Okay, so this is the altered title. For this multi-post, I'll be introducing a few major players in-plot. If some of this sounds like anime/manga/gaming schtick, be assured of whatever negative cultural influences I've received N years ago.



Ein

This cub doesn't belong to any pack. He's doomed to hunt and fight alone.

Age: 17
Hair color: Black
Hairstyle: Short with long bangs nearly covering the eyes.
Eye color: Sky blue
Physique: Tall and athletic

Homeland: Eden

Likes: Food; napping
Dislikes: Liars; thunderstorms
Personality quirk: Inquisitive; unable to deal with pretty members of the opposite sex, i.e. girls.
Personal strength: Capable of adapting to different circumstances at hand; able to maintain total focus no matter what.
Personal weakness: Only knows how to apply above mentioned traits within combat; socially inept; prone to anger once provoked.

Profession: Ranger
Weapon: Spear
Technique base: Agility and ferocity.
Technique focus: Killing the enemy with a single hit.

Streik:
Under Heaven Asunder
Leaping upwards after which Ein hurls his spear in a blazing streak. Will always penetrate all forms of defense unless successfully dodged. Ein had slain a dragon before via this Streik.

Bio:
An orphan abandoned and raised in the Ancient Paths, Ein has always displayed a feral streak surpassing his peers. While 'tis indeed true that every Edenish, male or female, is born with a wild disposition, Ein's case was exceptionally strong. Because he is not of Edenish blood, Ein was shunned albeit no one actually disturbed him due to basic honor demanded by the Ancient Paths. This brought about an innate yearning for companionship, which mayhap is the reason why he managed to become the finest Ranger Eden has ever seen in his generation. His overall skills are much beyond average, but nothing to laud about. Yet, his single focused demeanor has left even the most seasoned Rangers stumped.

To be cont'd...

Tuesday 18 March 2014

Happy St Patrick's Day!

Even though as a Singaporean, I don't really celebrate it. Surprisingly Japan and South Korea do.

So whatcha gonna do this time?
Nothing much, only some whim write concepts once again. Apparently, ART ain't my 1st work. This time round, I'm gonna return whence I first started off.

I still remember being fascinated by the ol'school Tolkien stuff with authors like RA Salvatore and JRR Tolkien being my chief inspirations. Back then, I dunno who is GRR Martin despite this dumb kid starting to write like... I guess 2003? Anyway, might as well go back to the past for a while...

Circles of Arven
This is the original title, I dunno whether it should be changed since it's more of a reminder of my half assed writing past. That is if I manage to pull off the impossible if you get what I mean.

So any changes?
Originally, COA was all abt your run of the mill epic fantasy. Current conceptual changes will be more mature. If there's a chance, I want to try and see whether I can return back to my heroic fantasy roots. After going through years of painful baptism (as in plenty of harsh critique amounting to helpful scars), I discovered that Fate/stay night has became an effective tool inspirations wise. In particular, I really liked the Unlimited Blade Works route. The whole "idealism vs realism (some say cynicism)" struggle was truly an idea to behold. I dunno abt you, but 10+ yrs of hardship might have played a major part in me differentiating dreams from reality.

Ultimately, I know this sounds like a rip-off of FSN when I say I'm planning to do a brand new plot amounting to a boy's journey in becoming a man. Nothing planned of yet plot-wise, so pls don't bash me Mr Tobias.

Characters
Azuren:
This is my main character, which incidentally is my Hotmail account as well. Yet, chances are that I might change his name altogether. Maybe Ein? (note: Ein is quintessentially the German term used for singular purposes).

Diff in appearance-Originally silver haired and with purple eyes. May change to dark hair and blue eyes. Due to me being severely affected by J-culture, quite obviously he'd be quite a looker.

Diff in garb-Originally a simple combo of forest green+leather jerkin. This time round I might gun for a more brownish look, i.e. more brown/leather, less green. A scarf will look nice on him, I'm sure. So long ppl don't accuse me of trying to recreate Strider w/o proper authorisation from Capcom that is...

Diff in weapon-Originally a scimitar made of silver, this was b/c I was quite into Drizzt Do'Urden last time round (come to think of it, I believe the current Drizzt is much better albeit a brand new romance recently ended might have done a plot U-turn for good). This time round, I opted for a spear since I've pretty much grown into lancers fighting on foot over the years. Most likely I'll do a simple design of a wooden shaft+silver head. Trying to come up w/a name for the spear.

Diff in persona-Azuren is, suffice to say, a somewhat idiotic fella. I do not mean the cute manner like Guy Cody, but more likely your shonen manga archetype (funnily enough, Jon Snow's initial character was also like that). Current write wise, I'm gonna try doing a darker take. Most simple way would be a catch-22 mechanic. We all know Shirou's struggles against GAR-cher in UBW, it's a battle against himself (ironically, same goes for GAR-cher when it comes to his alternate alter-ego). Ein won't have such stupid problems popping up, that's why I mentioned "catch-22". I'm gonna have fun w/this lol!

Diff in ability-Azuren=Deus ex machina imba. This is NOT a good thing and I strongly condemn any writer who thinks he/she can make it big by pulling this off. Yes, I've been through this shit, so do NOT call me a liar. Hopefully, I can make Ein into someone 100% mortal+mundane. I swear this will my toughest task if so.

Diff in fighting style-Okay, no much diff guys. Azuren's ability is 100% instinct based due to his racial lineage, I don't intend to change anything where Ein is concerned. However, using ideas from how a wolf might retaliate against hounds do pose forth some interesting pointers. Apparently, wolves don't win on technique points, but rather sheer agility and ferocity plus a tendency to kill via a single snap of its jaws. In humane terms, we call this melee sniping. Okay, I made that final shit up.

Diff in power-Blame my J-culture obsession, but I enjoy the notion of having an imba weapon plus one major trade off. Toying atm w/the concept of adrenaline usage where a higher level means higher performance. Yesh, this is scientifically proven. That is until adrenaline wears off. Actually come to think of it, 'tis true for many others.

To be cont'd...

P.S-Feeling a bit unwell, hence this substandard post. To make amends, here's a little song for you guys. Enjoy.

Saturday 15 March 2014

Nothing better to do... IV

Apparently, Singapore is fast becoming Smogapore and it ain't even anybody's fault! Ah well, at least I know how it feels to live in Teesside. Even if it's only less than 10% of the real deal. Can I have 3 pts off the road? Oh, and no updated tweaks for now b/c... well, you know why...


Note-I only add above song 4 teh lulz.

Okay, I literally lied...
1. Combat will commence in real time format. Oh wait, I didn't changed that.
2. Strategy phase is now 90% more streamlined w/3D graphics. Characters controlled by AI will be able to use any and every Technique/Magic/EX/Feat/Drive available to them.
3. Four button system now overhauled. 1 button for Standard (normal) Attack, 2 others for individual Technique Attacks selected, last button reserved for Block.
4. L1=Stance; L2=Parry; R1=Focus; R2=Magic
5. L1+R1=Feat; L2+R2=Ex
6. L1+R1+L2+R2=Drive
7. Item usage during combat is done by tapping Standard Attack button twice.
8. On point 2, it basically means you can only manually control 1 character with 2 Technique Attacks, 1 Magic and 1 EX of your choice for the entire combat.
9. Cooldown for Technique Attacks is now defined by a timer indicated on the respective character's portrait, i.e. portrait will be shaded in grey under cooldown status.
10. If character portrait is shaded in red, it means said character is defeated. You cannot recover sellswords this way after combat. PCs, however, will be considered alive after victory.
11. Certain Items can only be used during combat, others can only be used after combat.
12. Item usage during combat goes by order, i.e. first Item selected will be used, then second selected Item, so on and so forth.
13. Character controlled by you will gain bonus XP upon victory.
14. Characters controlled by AI can still use EX, Feat and Drive.

Alestrial Eliaden

Starting level-5
Stats
Strength-D
Fortitude-S
Speed-D
Dexterity-C

Expertise-Adapt
Expertise level up bonus-Gain 3% chance of automatic counterattack per level.

Weapon mastery-Longsword [normal damage-slashing; critical damage-slashing, piercing]
Starting level-1
Mastery level up bonus-Critical chance increase by 2% per level up.

Class-Noble
Blessed with status and lineage, nobles will always be either loved or hated by many. While 'tis indeed true that most of them live a decadent life, there would always be verily few gaining respect and awe through merit.
Class Skill-Charisma
[Negotiate: Equipment higher than Rank C and sellswords cost less coin; misc buff]
[Inspire: Faster SP regeneration rate for all party members]
(50% chance to trigger; +2% chance per level up)

Armour mastery-Light
Default Armour: Brísingamen (counted as Accessory; necklace)
Equipment Rank: A
Effect: Immune to all enemy Magic.

Grail-Hrunting
Effect-Gain one additional Affinity element if you choose to control this character; Focus Attack damage counts as Fire.
[Limitation: Can only activate once per turn]

Affinity-Life
Effect: Every party member's maximum HP increase by 25% before the start of every combat.
(30% chance to trigger; 55% chance to trigger during boss combat)

Seasonal element-Spring
Effect: Constant HP regeneration for entire party whenever SP is above 70%.

Truth-Dragon
An enigma commanding both terror and awe, Dragons have long been the stuff of folktales and myths. Scholars hold the view that this splendid beast has always been the figment of every nation's imagination, how one sees a Dragon is said to be an accurate proof on the relevant society.
Effect: Either confer +1 to a given stat to entire party or -1 to a given stat for all enemies.

Skills
Perception
[Technique Attacks cost less SP whenever highest level enemy is of a lower level.]

Horsemanship
[Technique cost less SP whenever mounted; travelling time shortened by 70% if all party members possess a Steed each (Steed is counted as irremovable Item unless sold).]
[Affinity effect: (Steel) Every party member mounted will have the same bonus; effect will stack if affected party member also has this Skill.]

Arcana Major
[Magic cast by any party member will have its effect duration/extent increased.]

Arcana Minor
[Heal surrounding allies whenever executing Magic; Arcana Minor can only be gained if user has Arcana Major*.]
*Arcana Minor is automatically gained if Arcana Major is one of the character's default Skills.

Stance
Hildebrand-When attacked during Stance window, next attack dealt by every ally will count as critical.
(Stance window duration-Short)

Technique
None

EX
Dancing with the Dragons
A fiery burst consumes both friend and foe, yet each one's fate cannot be anymore different.
All party members apart from this character gain 1 Momentum each for remainder of the battle; gain 2 Momentum instead during any boss battle if enemy boss is of higher level.
[Fire Magic: Nearest enemy takes Fire damage without HP drained; target damage]
(Rank C)
[Momentum: Attacks deal 30% more damage, critical damage deal 10% more damage; mass buff]

Magic
Ex Nihilo-Gain Denial of Oblivion* for the next three turns; can only be used once per every battle.
*Denial of Oblivion-Replicate Technique/Magic/Grail effect immediately after original user executed it.
Affinity effect-Life (increase relevant duration/extent of replicated effect)

Feat
Scáthach
[Fire Magic: Nearest enemy takes Fire damage amounting to Rank A Fire without HP drained; target damage]
[Invigorate: Entire party apart from this character regain 20% SP; mass buff]

Drive
Dies Irae
Release a massive conflagration burning everyone on the battlefield; all enemies damaged this way will have their max HP reduced permanently; every ally defeated this way will be revived with 25% HP and immune to all enemy Magic until your next turn.
[Purge: Remove all buffs from every enemy on screen; mass debuff]
[Adversity: Can be triggered with at least 20% SP if HP drops below 30%; auto trigger requirement]
[Auto trigger: Will automatically activate once the requirements are met]
[Draining: Can only be used once per battle.]

So anymore? Maybe I should add a song first...


P.S: Since this is a RPG post, might as well do something 4 teh lulz... :P
Yep, dudes. That's Homaki I'm upping here...
Wait, this sounds so wrong... will I kenna sued? -_-;

Wednesday 12 March 2014

Problem Controversy?

In the greatest show of visual controversy yet, the latest SAFRA ad managed to attract plenty of friendly fire. And by friendly, I mean two NS dudes bio one chio-bu. The funny thing is that the creativity factor didn't sit well with many (?) netizens due to implied misogyny.

The ironic shit? Every man enjoys bio chio bu one unless married alrdy. Then again, having a wedding band will only mean the wife having a legit IOU to use against you. So married men, you've been warned. For me, I just feel that it's an issue of creativity misplaced. Any private gym pulling this off won't unplug Mt Vesuvius itself, I'm sure of that. (Link)

So why am I doing this stupid/pointless post? Because once people went back on their word, you won't give a **** unless you happen to be the one swindled. Especially when it comes to $$$. Especially when you get the death sentence after accidentally stepping on another unrelated person's toes. Therefore, I decided to channel my unworthy anger to something much more constructive.

P.S: Must be the haze, man...



Dark Arrow


NE 230 Summer

Slarvea… a land harbouring many memories. Then again, the same can be said for many other places. It’s already summer, but the wind is nevertheless balmy. Guess that’s why I prefer spending my summers here and not anywhere else.

“Well, ‘tis been a year since we met, old friend.”

They say the only gift better than a smile is a nice bottle of wine, I’m pretty sure Markawhelv will agree. They say the finest wine comes from the northern fiefs of Teutonia, I find it a travesty of logic to see nobody mentioning milk wine. There’s a common Kalaran saying: Ordinary folks have ordinary tastes, extraordinary ones are those deemed exotic.

If a genius ain’t exotic, I don’t know who else qualifies. Uncorking my wineskin, I flash a smile towards my kolaresh. Whatever happening countless years ago now seem like events taken place yesterday, I blame the sweet and sour taste belonging to my milk wine.

)0(

NE 200 Summer

“What do you mean by that?!”

Damn, I really hate people shouting in my ear. Why always me?

“No reinforcements, we’re screwed.”

The look on Tomas Daniev’s face is totally priceless, I bet no handsome sum could ever rival this. Maybe I should use a better word than “screwed”.

“Markawhelv!” barked Daniev in anger, his tone reminding me of some rabid mutt prepared to snap my fingers off, “The Tribe of Stream has gone back on their oath sworn!”

Wait, did I hear another story being told? Surely Markawhelv isn’t some cretin capable of buying some half assed contract sealed.

“The Tribe of Stream have never promised us anything,” replied my friend, his flaxen beard stroked thoughtfully, “They merely assured us of providing any help they can spare.”

“And they have plenty.”

All eyes are onto me, it definitely feels good to be noticed. If there’s anything I hate most, it would be assuming that invisible man. At least getting attention via acting stupid is a far better alternative.

“You better elaborate, dog!”

Okay, Daniev is really pissed off right now. I’m a Sudhlit, not a dog for fuck’s sake!

“Hold your ire, Tomas!”

Great, I got a belated saviour. Apparently, I can swear off drinks and bitches temporarily due to excessive force suffered.

“There’s no point shaking a worthless cur. I’ve just returned from the zoning.”

“What’s your report then, good Teryav?”

“Lost nine men out of every ten. Try counting it with ten fingers, Provum Markawhelv!”

Okay, so even the fiercest veteran available got himself nearly fucked. Moral of the story? Might is stronger than Magic, that is provided people believed in the latter. Nuva Teryav must be blessed with a damned strong wife.

)0(

“What? You mad?”

Yes, I’m really barking mad. Which part of Markawhelv’s orders do you not understand? Tapping my foot impatiently while seated on a low couch must have upped the temperature here. One has to give Slarveans some major credit though. ‘Tis one matter to live your life in a tent, quite another to build empty forts in case invasion says aye. If this is something only savages are able to do, then I daren’t try imagining how many idiots have lived and died in comfort. At least it feels nice sitting on something draped with bear pelts. Those beasts are greatly revered in Slarvea although it seems like a paradox to see them hunted due to that. Maybe there’s really a savage untamed living within even the most intelligent person.

“I am not mad, my dear Palus Irov. I see that your face have gone purple. Eaten something unclean last night? I told you not to eat that half cooked cony.”

Okay, it’s been confirmed. I should have thrown that cony leg straight into the fire.

“Look, I’m not interested in playing games with a barking mad Sudhlit mongrel. All I want is this: Any plans in mind? I’d have fed you to the wilds had not our Kammand ordering us not to do it.”

Indeed Provum Markawhelv knows Tristan Ajax well, but not well enough. You can only affirm whatever the other person wants you to know. That’s why winners in every conflict are the finest swindlers.

“When you lend s sheep to a stranger, why makes you do so?”

Seeing Palus Irov gaping like a moron must have been the most satisfying moment ever, some things are indeed meant to be priceless. Slarvs don’t easily loan their cattle or flock to any stranger unless the borrower is willing to swear an oath. While there are rumours of individuals gutted alive due to their sheer audacity, at least I’m not that crazy. Either that or…

“Tristan Ajax is a thief and liar. He has no honour!”

I don’t know who has the balls to address my full name, but at least he’s correct. I am a thief and liar, so throw me into jail then.

“Are you what they say?”

Well, blow me down. How old is that lad? Fifteen? Sixteen? Definitely nowhere older than that. I’m gonna have fun with this.

“What’s your name, boshev?”

“Aran,” proclaimed the golden blond proudly, “Aran, son of Alisev.”

“Firstborn?”

“No, sier. Nextborn.”

Well, that explains why he’s so scrawny then. I should introduce him to dear Bellnox. She’s gotta be the finest entertainer of men and I actually spent a night with her before going north. Sadly, that also means I’ll have to abduct him down south. The Slarvs basically loathe their Kalaran half-bred siblings with a passion, hence a no-go territory.

“Why not follow me since you’re so interested to know what I’ll be doing?”

Oh, I see tension and Slarvean fire here. Walking on knife’s edge has always been my specialty, I wouldn’t be standing straight and alive if opinions really matter most.

“Aran, son of Alisev. I know what you desire. Task yourself as my arms bearer and you shall be duly rewarded with truth and honesty. Not by my will but through an oath willing sworn.”

)0(

Present day

‘Tis a battle swift and brutal, I spoke to myself. Aran claimed that I saved his sister from getting raped, whoever she or the horny gang was anyway. If only I could recall how a hero manage to save a damsel in distress.

“You are no son of mine! My son is dead when this family’s servant wench seduced him to be poor!”

No son of my father? Well, that bloody old man was right apart from making Marges sound like a paid servant. Servant wench, yes. Getting paid? A bloody hell no. The moment my family employed scoundrels to do their dirty job was the night where I claimed my first kill.

“No… please… sadeh… talk! I talk! Just don’t kill me!”

Sadeh? Sorry, a sadeh doesn’t castrate his fellow males, let alone gutting them and leaving the dying for the condors.

“This is an abomination! Kish, what have you done to my name?”

That old scoundrel was right after all. His name is none of my business because it has never been this way all the while. Fuck Babin Sinh.

Heroes are not birthed from craven swine, but through mundane men. From now on, your name is no longer Kish.

Such was Leon’s final words before he bequeathed Fail-not unto me, so much for a dead man departing in peace. Guess that’s why I hate being a heroic figure.

“Well, time to go,” there was no mirth present in me as I got up, a finely cut stone made of topaz answering my smile with a twinkle, “Finished half the milk wine, the rest belongs to you.”

As the whitish brew watered Provum Markawhelv’s final destination, a refreshing summer breeze brings me back to that moment where the wind of war prevailed alongside with victory…

"Blow the horn, Aran. But only after I fired the arrow.”

“I don’t know what you’re planning, but who else can I trust?”

“Shut the fuck up, boshev. I will be aiming for anyone under the enemy’s banner, sound it straightaway after I released my bow.”

‘Tis a portrait of chaos, the main force was the first to strike. In war, assault comes before attrition. Yet, no one has the right to decide the numbers deployed. Then another horn was sounded, its owner neither me nor Markawhelv, let alone belonging to Aran.

It was Palus Irov announcing the advent of victory, the second army returning from a bountiful raid on the camp fortified by our foes. Only a battle won, but at least both Teutonia and the Kalaran Empire got their noses bloodied. The War of Chieftains had just started.

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Background notes

Kolaresh: Slarvean term for comrade. Deemed offensive for any foreigner to use it.

Boshev: Slarvean term for any individual, male or female, below the age of seventeen, which is the adult age for every Slarvean.

Sier: Address of respect used for any man of senior age.

Sadeh: Sudhlit address of respect for any person born in a high ranking clan. Used within first or second person perspective.

Additional notes

The Sudhlits basically named their clans according to the patriarch’s name. Every Sudhlit is only entitled his/her first name. Concept of last name is literally unheard of.

Sinh is quintessentially the last name for every clan patriarch, its use being a symbol pointing to the head status.

Kish is a real person’s name. Or rather, it’s an Israelite name. The father of Saul, first king of Israel, was actually called Kish.

The War of Chieftains was a complicated conflict involving first the various Chieftains vying to be the Plains Lord due to the incumbent passing away abruptly without a will. Claims based on both deed and name were disputed by each other, hence resulting in a full blown war. At the same time, an alliance of Teutonia and the Kalaran Empire decided to march against Slarvea for reasons unknown. The alliance itself was something unseen and unheard of even till the current era. The war was finally resolved via mutual truce forged, but not before millions perished and a painstaking period of political wrangling.

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