Might as well add in a new tag...

As the post title suggests, guess I should do one more tag for Skies of Arven since creative rights very important to ppl indulging in creativity even though no $$$ will come out of this. Actually make that everything I did so far.
And no, this statement has nothing to do with whether I approve of NDU being outed in Jack Neo's latest movie planned. Def not my problem.

Exploration

The world of Arven is mainly split into two parts, namely Surface and Sky. The Surface of Arven is where only the mighty reigns, a world where civilisation is a symbol of power more than anything. Separated by a vast sea without ends, the various continents are either content to wage conflict within their own borders or ambitious enough to launch daring raids against each other.

The Sky of Arven is where the wise and prosperous rule, a realm where levitated islands of varying sizes engage in trade and diplomacy. Regarded as a paradise compared to wilderness that is the Surface, every island is entitled indirect authority over surrounding areas of the Surface, whatever boundary necessary drawn by the Convention of Olymbus.

Surface

Every continent also holds total control over surrounding islands, colonies are established because of this. There are three types of continents on the Surface: Pictland, Gaeland, Cushland.

Pictland refers to any continent with fertile plains as the core terrain. Main ways of earning livelihood are farming and livestock rearing.

Gaeland refers to any continent comprising mainly of mountainous and forest terrain. The people there are known as expert gatherers and fierce hunters, but nothing more.

[Note-Eden falls under the Gaeland type]

Cushland refers to arid regions with extremely fertile lands situated at either side of the great river of Euph. Said areas are the only places boasting settlements due to water deemed as a religious symbol of status and wealth.

Sky

Any floating island is known as Heaven, a realm regarded as an independent nation by itself. Every Heaven carries the same traits, namely a vast bustling city fortified by both might and magic. Travel in between Heavens is carried out via drakes flying from one point to the other. The organisation overseeing the stability of the entire Sky of Arven is called the Convention of Olymbus.

Travelling

There are two ways to travel: ship (for Surface) and drake (for Sky). Depending on the nature of location and distance, travelling can cost a bomb. Ship travelling will pose forth a risk of fighting random enemies, but doing so has its perks in terms of EXP and loot drops gained. Drake travelling holds no such risk while having a shorter duration.

Note that duration of travel tends to affect the quest completion rating, be said quest side or main. More on that later on.

Quests

Quests are either considered main or side. Main quests provide the standard quest reward together with plot progress. At the same time, main quests can only be unlocked as the story progresses.

Side quests yield EXP and loot drops, but nothing more.

There's also the third type, namely elite quests. Elite quests are much more challenging with far better loot drop and a relatively higher EXP gain. Elite quests can only be unlocked via specific requirements met during main quests.

Note that the relevant NPCs will unlock side or elite quests, but definitely NOT the main quest.

To be cont'd...

P.S: In other news, I realised I fail utterly for life when it comes to organising solo my own PC folder mess.

Again decided to write something before tidoh...

Just some concepts plus the fact that I've just started a new ART chap...

Combat system

1. Combat takes place in real time mode. However, turn based elements will be present in terms of options.

2. Before combat commences, you must choose your party's priority order, i.e. which character goes first, second, third, etc.

3. Once battle starts, you can control all your characters according to their priority order.

4. Every character only has a fixed amount of time to be controlled by the gamer, after which the AI will take over.

5. Priority order will commence as a cycle until the battle ends.

6. There are three types of actions available: Normal, Special and Streik.

7. Special actions will consume a relevant portion of your character's adrenaline while Streik consumes the entire amount.

8. Normal actions will not cost adrenaline. But they will increase in terms of individual effect as adrenaline increases as well.

Adrenaline

Your characters will definitely live and die by this. Every character/enemy starts off the combat with 50% adrenaline, after which fast thinking will become the key to victory or defeat. Adrenaline increases at a constant pace, but priority order also plays a decisive role.

During any battle, every character's adrenaline will increase according to the ascending order.

Note that as the enemy will never abide by the priority order system, different enemies will have different pace in terms of building up adrenaline.

If your character's adrenaline reaches 0, it doesn't mean that character will die. But it will mean said character will suffer a fixed penalty in terms of stats. However, this penalty can be reduced by a high End stat.

Actions

Normal actions constitute to 3 categories: Attack, Evade, Parry.

Attacks actions target any enemy.

Evade increases the character's Dodge while reducing damage dealt.

Parry increases the character's Block while reducing chances to hit.

Special actions also include the above mentioned 3, but at the same time also include various buffs/debuffs. Note that Special actions tend to have some kind of cooldown period.

Streik is the most powerful move any character/enemy can come up with. Range of effects is the same as Special actions. Note that Streik will definitely have a fixed cooldown.

Combo

A combo occurs when you managed to execute a series of actions that brings about devastating effect. This will always be a combination of Normal and Special actions. However, it's possible to include Streik into the mix.

Special traits of different classes

Warrior

Higher chance to hit during Parry

Can only use MATK during Special actions/Streik

Special actions/Streik will use MATK as effect modifier together with the relevant stat(s).

Striker

Further increases Dodge during Evasion

Can only use MATK during Special actions/Streik

Special actions/Streik will use MATK as effect modifier together with the relevant stat(s).

Archer

Higher chance to hit during Evasion

MATK+PATK=damage dealt during combat.

Any non-damage effect will be affected by MDEF.

Penalty in damage dealt during melee.

Mage

Higher chance to hit plus higher critical damage during Evasion.

Can only use MATK to deal any form of damage.

Can only use PATK to deal damage if adrenaline reaches 0.

Penalty in damage dealt during melee; applicable only when adrenaline reaches 0.

To be cont'd...

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...

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

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...

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

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.

Link 1

Link 2

Link 3

Link 4

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。]