ネバーウィンターの勇者伝説~Concepts of something already existent [Mk III]

Having done the first half of the Six, I decided to finish the remaining half. After which I'll introduce a NPC by the name of Jay (not this Jay, mind you).

In other news, I blame my mother (and most likely my sister as well) for accidentally giving me an excuse to feel "murderous". Just now, some intelligent member of my family watched a real life crime show (i.e. basically a documentary chronicling some of the cases done by this guy). You see, there's this case of murder done a bunch of sikeena. Not even of a legal age and they already know how to murder some poor boy of the same race. The mastermind was only twelve back then, his arrogance decided to make me feel... well, "murderous". Which now comes the big question:
Will justice ever be done for poor Jega?

Before we start saying no, let us understand the implication for Moorthy provided his roommate didn't stick a knife into his eye.
Committing murder is no joke, whether you're arrogant or not. Moorthy was right when he said the jolly hangman from Changi couldn't hang him like what the Iraqis did to Saddam Hussein many years later. However, that merely means he's actually too dumb to realize what would likely happen 10 years down the road. Let me ask you a very simple question;
Are you willing to hire an ex-convict?
If your answer is yes, then let me ask you another question:
Are you willing to hire someone like Moorthy?

This is basic wisdom, not rocket science. You don't need to be K. Shanmugam or Karpal Singh to understand what kind of grave Moorthy had dug for himself. If he's lucky, it means he's already repentant plus making a decent living instead of killing people like a twelve years old terrorist.
If not, then he's most likely jobless and still begging for money quite literally. Worst come to worst, he'd already have a family, in which the poor wife would always get beaten up once every three days due to a fit of drunken rage. This is not me being a racist, I'm merely telling the story of humanity for what it is. Just don't ask me whether he's already dead.

The human psychology can be very fragile more oft than not. We tend to think ourselves as invincible, but that's because we've yet to sniff glue and become drug addicts. I've been through near twenty years of darkness, I've stared at hell eye to eye while wrestling with my inner demons (i.e. the figurative succubi). If you're to ask me, Moorthy was merely a pathetic little boy who must eventually wrestle with a massive inner demon wearing Jega's mask. There are many ways to indulge in your inner demons, not just watching porn. If no one is willing to hire you because of what you did ten years ago, it's only natural. Society had never owed Moorthy anything in the same way Jega had never owed Moorthy even a single cent. Moorthy owed the society because the jolly hangman could have hung him.if he's not a minor. Moorthy also owed Jega because the victim did not deserve to die.

Note: Because there are more than jus a few things capable of stoking my inner fire, any scene which may come into play for ネバーウィンターの勇者伝説 will be written in the form of short stories here. Basically this type of format.

Add note: I need to learn how to dodge backward. Or rather getting used to it since I tend to dodge forward 99% of the time. I swear Orcus' massive weapon is made of undodgeable material. Or just about anything used by a giant. -.-'

More add note: The whole depressing episode above reminded me of a J-drama I've watched N years ago. Back then, my pretty legal housebreaker had yet to convert my sis to Running Man.

Remaining character profiles

~Paramour~

Myrreas' path on his formative years amongst the Harpers. In a fateful stroke, his world came crashing down in the form of a foe most terrible: Manshoon. That was years ago, but the wounds still bleed ever surely. As if Beshaba have her eyes on him, events soon to come will challenge everything he has lived for.
For every ounce of profit comes an ounce of loss, luck and misfortune are always like eternal enemies and best friends forever at the same time.

A/N: Myrreas' path will begin at Fort Precipice where he's informed of the annual Protector's Jubilee nearing. Apparently, he knows Quorthon.

~Dhaerow~

Sheallyn Melarn's route. The first half focuses on her traumatic past surrounding Menzoberranzan, which would eventually led to her leaving the city. The second half tells of her years with the Harpers and that chance meeting with Elminster Aumar, an event which would change the course of her life forever.
Dhaerow means traitor, such is the drow nature. Before a goddess of treachery, perhaps the worst kind of dhaerow is one rejecting betrayal and lies.

A/N: Sheallyn's path will begin shortly after Myrreas' abrupt departure from the Harpers, after which the scene will fast forward to the Protector's Jubilee.

~Intrigue~

The story of Kariss Locras exploring her inner demons both figuratively and literally. Starting from her early years in Wheloon, her path would eventually take her from Luskan to its most hated rival Neverwinter.
With great power comes great responsibility, but with absolute power comes absolute corruption.

A/N: Kariss' story will start from her years at Luskan, after which we'll see plenty(?) of flashback from her past. Most notably a certain military genius who would eventually become an actual hero of Neverwinter.

NPC Jay

It's quite funny imagining a bard named Jay appearing in-game, but meh. The moment you start the story mode (no matter which character), you'll see Harper Jay conversing with an innkeeper. Due to a lack of traveling funds, Jay has to come up with a plan to keep himself warm (note: the timeline is most likely shortly after the events of Storm King's Thunder). Depending on which character you're starting, you'll see Jay singing at different locations.

~Left Hand of Kelemvor~

Location: Lonelywood

Hear my words, you who seek refuge in Lonelywood.

Certain heroes are born, some others made.

Then there are those forced to be one.

'Tis a tale of a wolf with a mind of steel,

Chosen of Kelemvor and victor over Crenshinibon.

A master of tactics and strategy,

Knight of the Feywild and Kingslayer.

~Fist of Torm~

Location: Termalaine

Discern for yourself, folks of Termalaine.

Hear the story of a soul noble and strong,

Of orcish blood and a human's soul.

A child conceived from union forced,

A shield of Torm and a sword against Gruumsh.

Brave and strong like Agorwal of yore,

Second only to the son of Beornegar.

~Image of Mystra~

Location: Caer-Dineval

Listen, you refined ones of Caer-Dineval,

For I shall sing a ballad of a noble lady fair.

Her love lost to death,

Her family both the dagger and hand.

Pride of Corellon and a beacon of Mystra.

Her stature akin to Lady Alustriel Silverhand,

Her beauty like one of the Seven Sisters.

~Paramour~

Location: Good Mead

Enjoy, revelers of Good Mead,

Here is a tale about one like you.

A Harper he has always been,

A charmer of ladies and lover of mead.

Beloved of Selûne and blessed by Tymora.

A carefree soul like the Sage of Shadowdale,

His nimble hands rivaling one of Bregan D'aerthe.

~Dhaerow~

Location: Bryn Shander

Savor my tale, brave souls of Bryn Shander.

One who is like that statue before your gates.

A child of Menzoberranzan,

A wizard like one from Cormyr.

A traitor to Lolth, a friend to Eilistraee.

A touch like the Harpells of Longsaddle,

Yet more refined a spellcaster than they.

~Intrigue~

Location: Caer-Konig

Pay attention, rival to Caer-Dineval.

To the one straddling between light and darkness.

From Wheloon she set off,

To Luskan she went.

A daughter of Belial, a champion from the Nine Hells.

Beguiling like Sharess,

A touch of madness with a temptress' charm.

Paragon class level up

Realized I've yet to say anything on paragon class here. When we talk about paragon class, there has to be a way to level up. Simply put, your character's paragon class will automatically level up together with the starting class.

As you level up...

You'll gain new at-will, encounter, and daily powers. Not to mention class features as well. You'll end up unlocking new powers at level 10, 15, and 20. Once you reach paragon class status, new paragon powers will unlock at level 25, 30, and 40 (together with that of the starting class as well). Note that this system only works with the class level, not your character's overall level.

Also, you'll unlock an additional slot for your character at least once paragon class is eligible.

Encounter powers and daily power

L1:

Encounter power 1

L2:

Encounter power 2

R1:

Encounter power 3

R2:

Encounter power 4

L1+L2+R1+R2:

Daily power

A/N: Please note that your character can only slot 1 daily power.

Daily (plus) encounters

At-will powers do not have a cooldown, but encounter powers have. However, encounter powers are also more powerful so as to speak. Different encounter powers will have a different amount of cooldown period (duh!). However, there no stats which can affect this aspect of the gameplay. When it comes to gear, however, that's where the fun starts. However, it's not so much about the gear, but rather the nature of gear enhancement. In specific areas/places, you can purchase gear enhancements. The only catch? You must please your patron deity first.

Depending who is your character's patron deity, killing stuff will earn you favor points. These favor points can be used to purchase enhancements which will confer three kinds of bonuses. 

1. Cooldown reduction

2. A specific property

3. Bonus for a specific attribute

As for daily power, you can only use it once per day. As your character levels up, however, the number of usages will increase. Basically, it's 1 additional usage time per every 10 levels (i.e. the character's overall level).

You can only use the daily power associated with the starting class, paragon class, and prestige class. Secondary classes are not eligible for their respective daily powers.

Actions

Actions are now probability based. In other words, stuff like second wind and healing surge requires an element of luck to trigger. At the same time, every action will have a 20 second cooldown. More than 1 type of action can be triggered this way. Below are the actions available in-game and their respective chances to proc.

Latest note: My brain was going on auto-pilot. Gonna tweak extra action.

Healing surge-30%

What it does: Restore twice the amount of HP healed whenever using a healing spell. Healing scrolls will have a fixed 45% to 60% probability (depending on the scroll's quality).

Second wind-25%

What it does: Gives temporary HP and increase in debuff resistance. 40% chance instead if under any control effect.

Extra action-25%

What it does: Conferring invulnerability for the next 5 seconds upon hitting a target or receiving a hit. Extra action cannot be triggered at the same time with other actions.

Stand up-50%

What it does: Recover from knockdown status. 30% chance of preventing knockdown status if your character has either at least a minimal Strength of 16 or a minimal Dexterity of 18. Chances of triggering this action will also be affected by your character's Constitution score (+1% per every point of Constitution above 14).

Charging-60%

What it does: Rushes at the nearest opponent before combat starts. Will trigger knockdown if your character's Strength is above 16.

Shifting-30% to 70%

What it does: Moving out of an opponent's attack, be it either ranged or melee. Chances of triggering this action depend solely on your character's Dexterity (30% with a Dexterity score of 12 to 70% with a Dexterity score of 16 and above). Only applicable against one attack. Cannot be used with the parrying action.

Parrying-30% (+1% bonus chance per every point of AC)

What it does: Deflecting an opponent's attack, after which your next attack will deal 50% bonus damage should it hit the target. Only applicable against one attack. Cannot be used with the shifting action.

Healing potion-10% to 80%

What it does: Enables your character to use a healing potion. Chances to trigger depends on how the amount of missing HP.

ACJC

AC does not mean Anglo-Chinese *insert relevant school here*. Rather, it means Armor Class. Basically, this is your character's defense stat. AC not only affects the damage you receive, it also affects your chances of suffering a critical hit.

At the same time, Dexterity and Constitution also contribute to AC. For every 3 points of Dexterity/Constitution above 12, one point of AC will be given. Every piece of armor will have its own specific AC rating.

P.S: Need to sleep now. Need some sleep now.

Final note: Last Monday, I realized someone has been doing a legal housebreak all the while. I'm pretty sure my family members know the truth, that I'm the only one in the dark. To that unnamed housebreaker, be noted that (I think) I know who you are. You took five pellets of sweets from my box of Halls lime mint earlier on and put them back come that Monday morning while I was sleeping soundly. I swear my life for the past four years has been a K-drama. I should have realized something was wrong when you faked your actual name in front of me four years ago.

I only up this vid for fun...

ネバーウィンターの勇者伝説~Concepts of something already existent [Mk II]

Okay, I've yet to start my analysis on how awesome  the combat hunter ranger tree has gotten this time round. At the same time, I'm currently waiting for the current patch to hit home so that I can see for myself whether a hellbinder temptress is a better fit for Kariss (both gameplay and character wise). Suffice to say, I wasn't willing to burn 116K astral diamonds for a feats-boons respec even thought there's no actual reason for me to burn 7 Savras tokens for a resepc token (then again, there's no reason for me to spend the Savras tokens generally speaking as well). By next week (hopefully), I'll give my personal take on both Arylos and Kariss' character (gameplay) developments.
(note: I won't be touching on the new campaign for a while until Myrreas completes Icewind Dale).

[Add note: Hopefully the new rewritten version of A Requiem from Winter Past will be upped before this weekend]

Hence for now, I'll be doing this below...

Don't we all love moral choices? This November, moral choices will be made and America will never be the same again. If you think that's a joke, then you're sorely wrong. If you think voting is not about making moral choices, then I need to ask who is your god (if you happen to abstain due to your own freedom of [moral] choice, then I don't have to ask who is your god).

Enough about foreign politics, let's go onto moral choices in ネバーウィンターの勇者伝説. Because this is not the Witcher series, therefore there's only this much I can work with the freedom of moral choice. Because this is not a video gaming version of A Song of Ice and Fire, there's nothing much I can do about the freedom of moral choice. Definitely I don't have any freedom of movement since this not my very own 餓狼の鎮魂曲 (wait, Requiem of the Lone Wolf sounds better than Requiem from Winter Past...).

There are two ways to decide your characters' moral alignment. 

1. Moral choices in-game. This applies to your default, unlockable, and DLC characters.

2. Having the freedom of choice to be good, evil, or neutral. Don't we all love rolling for the stats while deciding everything else?

I'll touch on the first aspect here (since the second aspect is all about Steel and Magic, Heroes and Villains).

D&D anyone?

D&D not as in your department's Dinner & Dance even though you and your other two BFFs happen to be colleagues as well. D&D not as in Dungeons & Dragons even if either Jason Mraz or JJ Lin happens to be your DM. D&D is all about Deals & Decisions. When you deal with a person, you're interacting with that person. When you have to make decisions concerning a person, it means you're dealing with that person. There are two ways to put yourself into a point of moral choice.

1. The relevant skill checks (i.e. Bluff, Intimidation. and Diplomacy)

2. Direct Q&A (i.e. MCQ. If you don't know what is MCQ, it means you've most likely failed in life)

Note that the two factors can overlap. For example, you can run a skill check, only to realize there's a social MCQ waiting for you.  Then there will also be other moments where either a skill check or a Q&A is enough to settle the issue.

Moral choices will affect a few things. Namely...

1. Unlocking of side-quests

2. Bonus stuff (read: freebies)

3. One thing leading to another (read: various manners of recommendation)

4. Whether that person will be your friend or enemy (read: either you earn yourself a comrade or foe)

5. Chances of starting a free-for-all (read: self-explanatory)
6. Whether your ending will suck (read: only in certain circumstances, not always or even often)

Various story modes

I really like this song. And it doesn't help that Nasu Kinoko is known for stuff like this, this and this. In the Neverwinter Six saga, the story mode will focus on the titular characters.Separated into six parts, you'll need to complete Arylos' path in order to unlock other characters' respective story mode where the remaining Five will be automatically unlocked. At the same time, there's also the chance of choosing which character to use in the scenario where more than one of the Six are present. However, you must complete the relevant portions before being able to do so. Another alternative will be to replay the quest once you've completed that particular character's story mode. Below are the character paths available:

~Left Hand of Kelemvor~

This is Arylos' path. Chronicling his life from his days with Eldreth Veluuthra, his journey would one day lead him to the Neverwinter Wood. From there, Neverwinter would eventually witness a manner of hero never seen since the days of Lord Nasher Alagondar. A person living in constant conflict, Arylos could never understand a peaceful life beyond the battlefield.

A/N: Because I don't want to accidentally add a personal touch to the whole big evil boss, I decided to alter the name from Isil to Isrin.

~Fist of Torm~

This is Bhaasmond Taran's story starting from his early years as part of the Flaming Fists. From there onward, the half-orc would eventually meet a soldier named Wilfred whose untimely demise would entwine the fate of the Jewel of the North with his. Being an unwanted product of rape, Bhaasmond sought to find his own self-worth as the ultimate aim.

A/N: Bhaasmond's path is the only one where the prologue stage of Neverwinter Online becomes legit in-game.

~Image of Mystra~

Cyrea Durothil's route. From her early years of self-imposed exile in Cormanthor to her days amongst the Lords' Alliance, the daughter of the prestigious House Durothil has seen much in a brutally flawed world still recovering from the Spellplague. Having decided that Neverwinter was far more of a home compared to Evermeet, her presence went a long way in stabilizing the previously fractured relationship between Dagult Neverember and the Harpers. As one understanding loss in its entirety, Cyrea strived not let the same tragedy befalling unto others.

A/N: Cyrea's path will begin straightaway at Neverwinter. At the same time, she's already a member of the Lords' Alliance by the start of the game. Per implied by her story mode title, I'm planning to integrate Mystra into her storyline. Maybe it's not so bad an idea to ditch the plan for a Tiamat set and give her a Sigil of the Controller instead (read: Tiamat set is more useful for righteous spec imo).

To be cont'd... b/c my brain is shutting down after days of late night adrenaline.

ネバーウィンターの勇者伝説~Concepts of something already existent [Pt I]

If you still remember what I've written in Garou Central, it means you most likely knew already that I enjoy designing gaming concepts. In fact, I've already started doing so in my first blog (i.e. the defunct That Random Blade. No thanks to the fact that I never got that password reset for my previous Google account, hence having to start from the scratch again).

Just last Friday, the one game every S'porean was looking forward to (either that or dreaded most) arrived in the full glory of lightning bolts and yellow critters. Like it or not, it's thanks to Pokémon GO that the SPF has to get busy working again. So much for doing a Finding Nessie.

Or even Finding Kappa for that matter.
Doesn't every local S'porean girl like her bf to be intelligent?

To highlight the Tesla power of Pikachu and Raichu (or just abt every critter in the list)...

...every S'porean got caught up in the frenzy. Okay, not all. Also not literally since I'm pretty sure Private Ryan Shawcross won't end up crossing beyond either Tuas or Woodlands. Actually come to think of it, should we just equate the game with the term "Tesla girl" even though I don't know what that means?

Either way, I'm still interested to see whether the Prime Minister of Far Far East will be willing to work with yours truly (more specifically, it's the other way round).

Pressing the (basic) buttons

Intended for the PS4 and Xbox One, I won't be surprised if Nintendo will be included as well (I'm saying this because the Nintendo console interface in general has a history of being... well, quite literally different). Hopefully, history won't repeat itself for the sake of the better good of the relevant industry. Yes, I know I talk a lot for a normal human being (mainly because I'm born abnormal. A fact which not many people around me have been willing to accept). So allow me to simplify every word in a single meme.

Because I'm currently too lazy...

...I decided to use the PS interface. Before I do so, let me just explain some of the changes intended compared to last time round.

1. There will only be two at-will powers available in the beginning. At the same time, only four encounter powers, one class feature, and one daily power can be available in the beginning as well.

2. You can unlock additional powers during the 4th, 10th, and 20th level respectively.

3. Gameplay interface will be streamlined. This is due to the difficulty level of incorporating pen and paper in video games too damn high.

4. Two buttons will be reserved for potions and scrolls respectively.

5. I don't know whether this is considered a change since my memory isn't 100% photographic, but this time round I'm opting for the ARPG approach instead of the standard turn based genre.

I'll be thinking over about whatever turn based aspects possible for this game. Just treat it as the ARPG genre until then. Or even any U-turn decision.

Square:

At-will power 1

Triangle:

At-will power 2

Cross:

Potion

Circle:

Scroll

Please note that you can only slot in 1 type of potion and 1 type of scroll in the respective slots.

Paragon and Prestige

Every character can choose a paragon class upon level 20. Upon reaching level 40, prestige classes will be unlocked. While there are only minimal restrictions concerning choosing a paragon class (apart from the choice of starting class of course), prestige classes carry forth specific requirements. Hence, it's actually possible for a character NOT to be under any prestige class.

When you create a character, you also choose that character's starting class. That starting class will decide which paragon classes are available. Every class will be two paragon classes to choose from.

As for prestige class, this is something not relevant to your character's class. Rather, it's all about specific requirements.

That one thing every S'porean must be good at

If you're a S'porean just like me, it means you must not be like me (unless you happened to be a genius like me). In other words, I can't multi-task. Whenever you went for job interviews, most likely the interviewer would expect you to be some sort of wizard.

Multi-classing is an option. To multi-class, your character must reach at least level 12. At the same time, you can only level up your secondary class per every 4 levels of your default class. If you desire more than just 1 secondary class, you'll need to obtain a prestige class. Whether you end up having 1 secondary class or 2, you can only choose to level up the class of your choice (i.e. both the starting class and the secondary one[s]). Whatever your choice, just make sure you don't end up like this.

Guess who really wins in the end?

More to come...

Focus is dropping more than just a wee bit now. Originally, my plan was to upload the first rewritten chapter of A Requiem from Winter Past. However, my brain was a tad too hyperactive due to the abnormal way my brain works. In fact, I'll need to cram a few things within this week. After all, my beloved team in red (i.e. Boro, not my local national football team) will be facing Stoke this weekend. If Alan Shearer thinks Boro will be relegated, then it's my mission to defeat him (i.e. I know what I'm capable of, definitely not this). Hopefully, I can start touching on the First Amendment aspect of the game next.

Nothing but the truth...

It's been truly quite an eventful 4 years. Ever since I started blogging in my now defunct That Random Blade, things have been quite unreal. From April 2012 until now, the prospect of being under the global microscope still feels unreal. From other people's proactive attitude amounting to positivity to my knowledge of a certain girl still waiting for me to be her boyfriend, it's been a funny ride. Everyone is currently acting dumb, I'm still that Truman Burbank of the Singaporean Truman Show. I'm under no illusions that every Singaporean knows how I look like, I already knew the name Kuok Minghui has been going around the world for way more than eighty days. As for my churchmates, I knew right from the start that they're forced to play dumb as well. While I do not know exactly the reason why (albeit I have made a guess or two), one thing I know for sure is that they're still telling me (in their own way of course) that their beloved little bro has become an unofficial global celebrity waiting to be made official. It still feels absolutely unreal (not to mention weird), but I understand that behind every unnatural reaction lies a natural reason. And that includes why I'm so daring now in pursuing that girl whom I know is still waiting for me in this manner below.

A/N: Garou Central won't be back unless there's a compelling reason for me to do a Soulforged effect on it. Period. When I said I wanted to start afresh with a new style, I mean it.

A message of congratulations...

...to my beloved sister in Christ, U. I once asked half jokingly when are you going to turn pro in being a harpist. Apparently, you're more interested in playing the harp as a form of hobby. Thinking back on my days in church since day one (i.e. from 2000 onwards), I realized I've been both stupid and misunderstood. Stupid because I truly ended up doing plenty of stupid things. Misunderstood because I'm still pretty sure nobody knew the reason behind my stupidity. And that includes my own family. No friends, only acquaintances. Got family, but no family members. Desired to have girlfriend, every of my ideal choice (both in church and otherwise) made me understood that I was never good enough. Fast forward to 2016 and I'll most likely be spending my National Day alone. Difference is, I now have God to spend it with me. This has to be the closest thing to Moses spending forty years in the wilderness of Midian and Elijah spending his time alone in the Kerith Ravine, definitely the closest thing to David's eight years in exile. This is not a boast, this is an expression of my own experience.

So to those whom I've troubled greatly due to my immaturity (I know there's at least that one girl in church whom I've had a crush on), I can only say sorry. If there's anything I could have done, most likely I'd have known by now. I know there are those happily attached and those happily married. Then there are those who are still single and waiting for a man ten times better than me. For the lack of better words used, I'm more than happy to give you all my blessings.

http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/arts/western-orchestra-with-an-asian-sound

My aforementioned beloved sister in Christ actually shared this on her FB page. Not in public view of course. Then I started asking myself this question: What if this group of talented people is to perform songs we'd never expect?

Below are my personal choices. Enjoy. ;)

Disclaimer!

I can (truthfully) assure every jumpy (and nosey) individual that U is NOT one of those I've got a crush on. Period. That's why the title of this post is "Nothing but the truth...", not "Nothing but the PRC..."

C'mon, you think I'me being real in upping this one?
Only two reasons for me to do this little piece of nonsense:
1. For her because I know she's a Chouder.
2. For me because a genius is always born abnormal.

Now for the real (?) playlist





Of course must have Korean also...

Yes, I've upped this song before. Period.

At the same time, someone in my church actually piqued my interest in all things Korean and Three Kingdoms combined. In other words, it's thanks to him that I know what Silla was all about.

Of course must also have angmoh also what...

I'll be brutally frank here. It was accidentally thanks to my youth fellowship N years ago which brought me to this song above. Moral of the story? It's still not too late to know how abnormal I truly am provided you're daring enough.

This one is definitely one of my all time favourites. Period.

Because it's really running late at night, allow me to round off this post with two more songs.

Yes, that's the same song in the first video. Another one of my all time favourites.

I know this piece sounds quite dark. Trust me when I say I'm officially someone who is emotionally damaged beyond repair.

P.S: Four years ago, the same brethren who taught me a wee bit about Silla actually made a joke mention about me and some radiographer. At the same time, he made another joke about me which was(?) inspired by Prof Yi Zhongtian. All in good humour of course...

La Émissaire de Neverwinter

Okay, gonna do a brief post on Arylos' love interest. However, this post won't be the end of everything so as to speak. For now, I need to get my biological clock back to normal mode.

The problem with being a genius...

It's a common knowledge that geniuses tend to be jerks. They are mavericks who won't hesitate to make life difficult for those whom they look down upon. They're not necessarily dictators, but they don't really have a good opinion on idiots. They have low EQ as a result, perhaps this is why they tend to lose their virginity late (after all, you don't need to be a genius to get a girlfriend). Seeing my churchmates getting married actually gave me a surreal feeling. It's like looking at myself and how I've dealt with the opposite sex all the while. Then I looked at what I can truly do. My only conclusion? I was born a genius. Unfortunately, the girls whom I had a crush on didn't know the real me back then. *shrugs*

Okay, I'm digressing...

There are times when I felt that my personality truly reflects a certain wolf. Then there are times when I realized I should just kick myself.

Trust the Japanese to be aesthetically prideful...
Really like this artwork of Belgarath and Poledra

Let's continue to Cyrea Durothil.

Worst kept secret ever...

There's a reason why I chose to do quite a few major spoilers for the Neverwinter Six saga. Because I'm pretty sure Ed Greenwood won't take notice of me. Funnily enough, it seems that the people at Cryptic and the Neverwinter Online community do. Since day one of playing Sword Coast Adventures, I realized there would be moments where the interface will go buggy either for the better or worse (mostly better). I received requests to join a small party at random moments where the requestor needs some help (read: I won't be surprised if I'm already a marked target for those seeking help. Not that I mind anyway...). And yes, the only difference between my surname Kuok and Kwok lies in the birdman.

If I'm not so much of a jerk in reality, it merely means my alter-ego hero of Neverwinter is. While I'm not about to say whether he has lost his virginity (after all, he's a genius), Arylos doesn't have a good opinion on others who don't agree with him. He's no Amos Yee, who would most likely disagree with people whom he deems stupid (to be fair, history do have a fair share of geniuses hitting a crash and burn. The key word is the one starting with the alphabet G). His problem lies with people who doesn't see the world like he does. To him, reality is merely an excuse for people to act like jerks (which is why he's actually one). Plenty of people doesn't like him. Either he's too abrasive (please note that most abrasive people we meet in reality are merely normal Joes and Janes out to make themselves feel better) or he's deemed a failure in life (something which his own people shouldn't be doing and saying, yet they actually do).

Out of the Six, only Kariss is able to communicate decently with him (and by that, I mean their common past). Myrreas is a fifty-fifty (as in Arylos doesn't care). Sheallyn is always worrying about him, but he doesn't give a damn as well (proof of someone damaged beyond repair like this fellow). Bhaasmond quite obviously can't wrap a finger around how someone like Arylos could become a hero of Neverwinter, something which that military genius can't be bothered with (proof of his Lancer complex).

So what about Cyrea? Actually, it's a bit like this vid below...

Inspiration for Cyrea Durothil

The name Durothil first surfaced before me during my first ever Respen's Marvelous Game run. When I decided to delve further (after all, I'm born an abnormal Singaporean due to a natural need to be inquisitive), I realized that Durothil is actually the name of a noble house. Traditionally, sun elves are the nobility class among the Tel-quessir (ironically, it's the moon elves which truly resembles the eladrin). House Durothil could be seen as a major noble house in this context. In other words, the nobility amongst the nobility.

Basically, this means two things.

1. Respen is both noble and crazy.

2. This gave me the inspiration to create Cyrea as a character.

If the Tel-quessir can be seen as a parallel to the Singaporean educational system, then the Or-tel-quessir would be the equivalent of an ITE graduate from the Dover campus while the Ar-tel-quessir would be the equivalent of a university graduate from Charles Sturt University (despite that It's The End scene in Jack Neo's satirical movie I Not Stupid, reality dictates another bunch of people better known as secondary school dropouts. They're called the Sy-tel-quessir).

While only overly intelligent people would speculate whether Arylos will declare himself as Cyrea's sword and bow, it must be stated that the exchange between Archer and Rin actually exposed a bit on my plans for their initial conflict. Like Rin, Cyrea is beautiful, rich, and intelligent. Like Archer, Arylos doesn't have a good opinion on a rich girl who lives somewhat a sheltered life (read: not quite literally, but definitely a sheltered life in terms of how reality is perceived). I don't have to spell out for you the chemistry formula prepared.

Her name is Cyrea

The funny thing with Cyrea is the fact that DDR (i.e. the X-ray department) itself should deserve some credit. I still remember a couple of times where there's this X-ray girl (i.e. a radiographer) called... well, I don't know how to write her name. What I do know is that there's this healthcare attendant calling her name as some word rhyming with cereal. It's quite funny because I never imagined there's actually a name that sounds like a product of Kellogg's (if that girl will be reading this post, it means I'm most likely famous already). Just don't ask me whether that cereal girl will become my girlfriend.

The Lords' Alliance

One of the key aspects in Cyrea's role lies in the Lords' Alliance. Better known as a council of the rich and powerful (yes, I know it sounds like *insert your favorite political party here*), it should be stated that House Durothil would rather end up like House Do'Urden (or just about any noble house in Menzoberranzan) than to have any part to play in the petty politics of equally petty races. In other words, there's no practical reason for Cyrea to be part of them. However, human stupidity has always been part and parcel of our everyday lives. We're prone to human error, the same goes for every politician as well. In other words, I need to find a legit way to justify her presence among the Lords' Alliance. Definitely not like this.

P.S: My dad is making noise after he woke up just now. What is intended to be a harmless toilet trip may have easily turned to be another show of evidence that his son was really born a genius. Sadly, it seems that he never know about it. Nearing 3 am already by the way...

Before I start on my analysis...

...I decided to do something else first. You see, the problem with staying static too long on the writing end is this: you wouldn't know whether you still retain your IQ or end up getting stupid. I still recall a certain conversation in the Tamuli series by the late David Eddings. In that particular scene, Sir Ulath commented that his Pandion friend had gotten (physically) soft. The reason why? Because he ended up marrying a lady who is rich, beautiful, and intelligent.

For now, I'm geared towards a rewrite of A Requiem of Winter Past. The reason why being that I just can't throw the whole damn thing away. I've gotten too attached to my characters. I missed Aeravor's cynicism, Guy Cody's brashness, and Alestrial Eliaden's idealism. Not to mention as well lesser lights like Eliad "that evil gay elf" de Serpentwine, and Tristan "that Indian who respects women and enjoys getting drunk" Ajax. Lest the liberals decided to cry foul, I decided to add Lukas "the good gay human" Brun as well. Oh yes, how can I forget the girls? Joenne Nances, Lolyx, Ceres, and Karen Tenias. And also Sarel Aphros as well. So did I miss anyone out? The answer is yes, yes, and yes. Plus my beloved Leonum Flammeus as well. ;)

What to expect from yours truly...

The education environment decades back may have officially destroyed me utterly. I don't have the desire to redo whatever academic studies, I'm not sure if the idea of self-destruction is ideal for the Singaporean image of educational excellence. Luckily, I managed to glean a couple of creative writing courses. Short ones, mind you. But at least better than nothing since my government is sponsoring them.

In my life, there are two inner demons. The deadliest one is the temptation of porn (no, I'm not joking. Try living a life of constant rejection from the opposite sex just because you're nothing more than a loser in school and life in general). That second in command? This below.

Don't you wish you have a girlfriend like the one holding the gun?
I do.

Because I decided to censor myself, therefore I'll need to be extra careful on the verbal vocabulary. However, there's only this much even the finest genius can do when it comes to a portrait full of terrorists, self-righteous people, and demons in general.

Quite some time ago, my cousin Mabel said that she could arrange a somebody who can help me. However, reliable sources told me instead that she's currently undergoing chemotherapy lasting 18 weeks. Since I do not want to play the disrupter, I decided to go for broke. Basically something like this:

Go for creative writing course I>do the same for creative writing course II>shameless self-recommendation in the name of being an apprentice.

A/N: Actually come to think of it, what kind of future will one have by taking creative writing courses? Maybe it's really the PAP's intention to bait me deliberately so that SPH can start saying "Yay! We got a #VanGoghofSG !!!!!" *shrugs*

No, I'm not about to answer any questions from SHyn Corp on whether their beloved goddess will become something like this. Until I officially play either a royal flush or a pair of 2, please stay content by watching 닥터스. 감사합니다.

So what's next?

Since I decided to flex my rusty writing muscles, I might as well pen down some of my thoughts here. Due to my fanboy's fascination towards the Forgotten Realms setting (something which I blame Drizzt Do'Urden for), it's my intention to try making some sense out of what's been happening recently. Namely Underdark and The Maze Engine modules for Neverwinter Online. If Requiem of Winter Past is to be my original love, then the Neverwinter Six is to be my fan love.

The most challenging aspect of trying to navigate stuff in the game plot lies in my problem. Namely a case of OCDP. I will not call a bluff here, I actually developed this problem while in primary school. Because my teacher was complaining my slow speed of writing, therefore my handwriting took a hideous turn. Even unto now, I don't write cursive despite whatever academic propaganda being propagated.

Long story short, I'm trying to make 100% sense out of what R.A Salvatore is writing at the moment. Prior to Mod 8, we all know whatever tales told by the owner of Hook, Line, and Sinker (where the first drink is always free) were about history, yetis, and Bruenor Battlehammer (forgive me if I missed out anything here). From what every gamer knew about Bruenor's end, it's apparent that said incident took place around the timeline of the Companions novel (albeit events in the book may have spanned across quite a good number of years). However, it's quite likely after the Neverwinter Saga (since Dagult Neverember had yet to consolidate his grip on the Jewel of the North).

By time Underdark came into the picture, it's apparent that Bruenor Battlehammer had yet to out himself into that full glory befitting of a king. From Reginald Roundshield to Bonnego Battleaxe, it must be extremely harsh on a kingly dwarf of Bruenor's stature (pun unintended). And speaking of Bonnego, it seems that the Dwarven King quest chain actually took place somewhere in the middle of the Companions timeline.

Which now comes to when Drizzt came into the picture. Plenty of things actually looked hazy at best prior to Mr Salvatore releasing Archmage. For one, nothing was said about Demogorgon during the Companions Codex series. In fact, that series wasn't part of the Rage of Demons campaign. Archmage, on the other hand, is. Which makes the possibility of Drizzt's hunt for Demogorgon (in the game, that is) after the events of Archmage (or perhaps even after the Homecoming saga) verily real. Either way, it's not going to change the fact that...

1. Cyrea and Kariss would still be the main characters of the Dwarven King storyline.

2. Arylos would eventually join in the fun starting from To Hunt A Prince (i.e. the epic war declared on Demogorgon) with him being the sole protagonist out of the Six in Burning Cruelty, Frigid Brutality (i.e. The Maze Engine campaign storyline).

Remember what I said about flexing my rusty writing muscles? Well, I'm going to try out writing two related scenarios.

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"Well, there goes the blasted demons and whatever else," snorted the battlerager, his grin unnerving whoever left in the city of Mantol-Derith.

"The fight is already over, Mraz," sighed Cyrea, "Is every battlerager like you?"

Flashing a wide grin betraying his rotting teeth, Mraz Warstomper tapped a finger on his spiked helmet.

"Gutbuster Brigade, me fair lady."

"Kuldjargh to be exact," snickered Kariss, the tiefling warlock noting with bemusement Mraz taking a bow before the two.

"Ye'd be more of a charmer if ye ain't a tiefling."

"Oh? So you're implying that my diabolical blood is the only reason why I'm no match for this fair daughter of House Durothil?"

Before Kariss Locras taunting the Ar-tel-quessir, the dwarf merely shrugged.

"Lady Cyrea Durothil still prettier."

Before a blushing Cyrea could utter a reply, a blast of the sentry's horn blared aloud.

"He's here! I'll go ahead. Follow me!"

Cyrea and Kariss could only discern a blur of black, its identity lost to neither. It was none other than Drizzt Do'Urden, hero of Icewind Dale.

For an instant, Cyrea was forced to confront a few questions. Would her fellow sun elves accept one as Drizzt? If so, then how about Arylos? For one was a drow, the other the son of a traitor.

"You heard him."

It wasn't Kariss who spoke, it was instead a familiar voice wearing that familiar tone. Kariss' eyes narrowed slightly, her emotions raging like a maelstrom. As for Cyrea, she could only behold someone least expected to appear.

"Dagult Neverember sent me to investigate the events here since there's profit to be made should peace prevail. As if he's open to dealing with whichever drow beyond Bregan D'aerthe."

No matter how many times the hero of Neverwinter displayed a visage of steel, Arylos would always be Arylos. Mayhaps this was the reason why Cyrea Durothil was drawn towards the son of Celadaine despite their initial conflict. Perhaps Respen was right after all, that dawn could never exist without the darkness of the night.

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The blast was immense, its light blinding all in front. Every combatant out to best Baphomet was struck down, every broken form symbolizing total victory for the Prince of Beasts. All save the two left standing with injuries. Yet, how could two heroes hope to fight a massive demon lord if numbers would never matter?

"I see them," growled Baphomet, his brutish grimace giving way to a bestial leer, "Burning cruelty in the blade of Mielikki and frigid brutality in the bow of Kelemvor."

True to his words, Drizzt felt that madness of the Hunter engulfing him. Not only was the invasion swift, it actually threatened to supplant the heroic drow's sanity in a manner more severe than his fight against Demogorgon. He couldn't go down like this, Drizzt Do'Urden reminded himself. Cat was still somewhere, perhaps in Bryn Shander.

Then a punch was thrown across his cheek. Equally worse for wear, Arylos never looked back at his counterpart. As for Baphomet, he made no advance. Clearly he could taste victory like a ravenous beast smelling blood.

Despite a brave front, the Or-tel-quessir was resisting the same extent of madness as Drizzt. No escape, no way to run. Fingering the dirk which has accompanied him ever since Korey ended her life with it, Arylos gripped his bow tightly. This wasn't just a battle against his primal instincts, 'tis also a war waged against his past. Ever since he undertook various requests from the King of Mithral Hall, it has incessantly haunted him like a relentless lover scorned. Cyrea was right after all, that he was merely a coward by living in a life already gone. Surely Bhaasmond would shake his head in amusement if not for Dagult Neverember's request for him to helm the Neverember Guards.

Then the dagger flew from his hand, its edge buried deep into the enemy's shoulder. For countless years, the blade was the only thing connecting his life with an unforgiving world. Yet...

Perhaps for the first time in his life, the wood elf smiled. It was not that emotionless grin those around him had gotten used to. It was not that mirthless expression drawing ire from many who never understood him. He remembered what Cyrea told him before this fateful duel, that her prayer to Corellon would surely reach him.

Never his people's god, true was the irony. Drawing an arrow, he charged it with arcane power tapped from the Feywild. With fluid ease, he let loose the projectile. Only to crash harmlessly against the Maze Engine humming behind its owner. He knew Baphomet's game right from the start, that both he and Drizzt have the necessary means to defeat this massive demon toying with them. Whether the encroaching madness was caused by this demon lord or the aftermath of Demogorgon's banishment, Arylos cared not. The moment he turned on Drizzt or the other way round, no one would be going back home.

"Home..." whispered the hero of Neverwinter as he surveyed once again the surroundings, the Horn of Lurue drawn from its scabbard, "Let's see if there's truly someone waiting for me out there."

Then it all happened in an instant. With blinding speed, Drizzt Do'Urden rushed towards the behemoth of a beast. In a moment's span, Arylos flanked the hulking entity of savagery. His strategy already formed and relayed, more than any other battles he must survive and win. For the first time in his life, the Chosen of Kelemvor chose not to pursue his own death. For now at least, he could fight without being fettered by the chains of history.

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Fantasy taking flight [aka Souls of Faerûn]

Since it's been a long time I've last updated this blog (no thanks to this year's Euro), I decided to jot down a wee bit of my own ideas. I have to admit that I'm no guru in the technical end, but I prefer to think that I'm really that damn good in creating concepts. Fit for a king, I know not. Good enough to be a local talent, I hope so. After all, someone should demonstrate to both locals and foreigners that being local talent doesn't mean you need to be an A*STAR scholar. Arylos is a genius not because he's had a superior education (something which Cyrea is known for quite obviously), but due to the cold hard truth that... well, he's really born to be one. In life, either other people would spot the genius or adversity will do the job for them. Sucks to be Arylos, it seems. *shrugs*

Will we see Singapore in the grand plans of Fantasy Flight Games?

Don't we all love to see competition more oft than not? From Korean dramas involving two young noblemen and one peasant lass to any real (?) life (?) drama (?) of two BFFs liking the same moronic fellow (who may be an actual genius for all we know), competition exists everywhere. Whether the new PSLE system works or not may remain an interesting topic of intellectual debate in years to come. For me, it may have come a little too late.

So any alternatives?

Per suggested by the previous title, I may really end up having the honour of making Heather Chua vomit blood big time. Proven genius with a local Singaporean girlfriend who is also rich, beautiful, and intelligent? I don't know whether it's truly possible for an ITE graduate to be labelled a genius since Bill Gates was studying at Harvard before he voluntarily dropped out (theoretically, however, I believe it's actually possible). Whether I'm such a person is irrelevant. Whether I'm good enough to court a local Singaporean girl who is rich, beautiful, and intelligent remains a question of aye or nay. Actually, I'm more interested in doing my own things since the education system more than two decades back has created that monster of a rebel in yours truly.

So will Fantasy Flight Games take note of me? Or perhaps the entire world actually has a decent idea on how I look like? Only time will tell.

Souls of Faerûn: Concept

Intended for players aged 12 and above, this card game is not meant for those who think the fantasy genre as more dangerous than terrorism, pornography, and worshipping your favourite human being. Intended for 2-6 players, this pen and paper game will most likely require some kind of funny (?) negotiations between the PAP government (since I'm no negotiator), Fantasy Flight Games (duh!) and Wizards of the Coast (since TSR was officially dead as a dodo many years ago).

Firstly, Souls of Faerûn is indeed a card game. At the same time, it's also a pen and paper game. Like D&D (i.e. not dinner and dance, but Dungeons and Dragons), Souls of Faerûn requires a decent (if not a talented) DM and (most likely) a few D20 dice. Pen (or pencil) and paper are needed since players will be dealing with numbers once combat commences.

Secondly, the players don't have to create their own characters. No rolling for stats, no need to keep your fingers crossed in case you rolled an eight or worse. Instead, you as the gamers will be assuming the legendary characters in the world of Faerûn via character cards. It doesn't matter whether it's Artemis Entreri or Erevis Cale, neither does it matter whether 'tis Drizzt Do'Urden or Arylos. Point is, the best local talents shall be displayed in the name of Faerûn's finest.

Combat

Combat system is basically the same thing as the pen and paper format. Each character takes turns to perform specific actions with the D20 die being used to decide the outcome of each combat round. Different actions require a different amount of action points, so please take note and get your pen (and paper) ready.

One concept unique to Souls of Faerûn is the individual character's ability. Classified into various categories (I've got a decent idea on that, but I need more time to flesh out the details), this manner of ability can be one out of any of those below:

Evocation [art of conjuration]

Invocation [way of summoning]

Command [manipulation of tactics]

Stance [the technique of duelling]

Not all that glitters is gold

Likewise, not all character cards are... well, characters. Some/most of the cards available will be just a bunch of mooks (or red shirts). Perhaps a few of them are actually elites without a name. Either way, they can (and will) go a long way in helping the player. In short, one character per player and more than one sellswords for that player as well.

Those with a blue border are those which both the players and DM can use (i.e. my BFF can also be your BFF). Those with a red border are those which only the DM can use (i.e. my BFF can be your worst enemy). Of course, the DM can (and most likely will) use both the blue cards in any manner he/she like. After all, the DM is the one deciding who the players will fight (and befriend for that matter).

Rule *insert number here*

Number not as in 34 or any other number. Rather, it's the latest edition of the Dungeons and Dragons rulebook. In fact, it may be preferable that you get the relevant rulebook (i.e. the campaign rulebook). After all, Wizards of the Coast owned (and still owns) the D&D franchise after Gary Gygax decided to rage quit TSR. Remember what I said about the three party talks between WotC, FFG, and the PAP?

P.S: Need to sleep soon. Got work tomorrow. Hope to continue tomorrow.

Not gonna lie, 'tis already 2:13 am.