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.

Houston, we got a problem here...

Disclaimer!

The post below is purely a case of my personal opinions. Believing my words is like taking a senseless risk. Or rather, it really is.

Apparently, my blogging schedule may have hit a snag. Earlier today, something happened. Basically the EU has a problem and that problem has a name. It's called Brexit. As expected, stock markets all over Asia hit a kamikaze nosedive. So what does the whole thing mean for the global economy? Or rather...

...is it all doom and gloom for regional economy?

Believe it or not, seeing the sterling pound hitting a 30 year low may not be the regional equivalent of the Titanic. Yes, I admit it's a disaster in terms of the currency market. However, things may not be that straightforward. After all, no one expected anyone to stop Apocalypse until Cable showed up.

Note: It's quite obvious that British investment in any given country will be savagely hit. Period.

So who will take over after Cameron steps down?

Will it be George Osborne or Boris Johnson? Assuming that it will be the Tory party voting instead of the people, I'm inclined towards Johnson. The reason is very simple: His vocal presence amongst the Tory blokes (and ladies) when it comes to the pro-Brexit issue. Ironically, Johnson used to be Cameron's greatest, if not one his greatest allies during the recent parliament election where the notion of a hanged parliament wasn't much different from the reality of a landslide win for Cameron and co (read: Ed Miliband was unable to prevent a whitewash defeat for the Labour Party).

Electing Osborne will surely be seen as a show of weakness to the EU. Which basically defeats the purpose of the EU referendum in the first place. Quite obviously the most idealistic way to go about doing it is to get a pro-Brexit bloke instead of a pro-Bremain bloke. A lot actually depends on vote lobbying though (which is bloody obvious anyway).

30 year low: What does it mean?

Firstly, EU's investment in the UK will be vital to how far (and tough) the road to recovery will be. Unlike countries like Switzerland and Iceland, UK's position is basically that of cut and run (read: Some nations actually opted not to join EU). Whether this referendum will leave a bitter taste in Donald Tusk's mouth (and the rest of EU quite obviously) remains to be seen. However, EU's final reaction may easily affect the process of negotiations.

In the world of politics, two things matter. The actual stakes and overall integrity. The former is all about how far you can push the envelope, the latter is about maximising your political stakes. In terms of integrity, the EU is currently pinned against the ropes. However, the stakes are still in its favour. If the UK wants to keep fighting for its rights, it must latch onto EU's Achilles Heel.

Keeping up with the Tokugawas

Around a year ago, I read an article on my country's FTA negotiations with the EU. What struck me the most wasn't President Tony Tan doing the diplomatic visit. Rather, only a few countries beyond the EU boundary have an actual FTA relationship with EU. Needless to say, my first reaction was... well, this.

Let me be this frank: The concept of a close border economy (well, not literally, but you get the drift) is downright stupid. There's a very good reason why the Tokugawa bakufu went belly up. The turmoil known as the Bakumatsu era was down to the error of the shogunate's longstanding tradition of self-isolating. Which is not much different if I'm to look at the EU's so-called free trade policy. If EU wants to survive, it better start with its so-called free trade policy. Just don't expect the US to bail the whole damn organisation out. Especially if another Donald becomes the President of United States instead of the European Council.

Note: Wikipedia shouldn't be the most accurate source of information, so I'll leave it up to you guys to figure this out.

In the event of an Exit...

Exit as in EU pulling out from whatever investments in the UK. Will it spell doom and gloom? Key to whether Britain will become great again lies in its foreign economy planning. Currently, it's better for the nation to start courting suitors (i.e. investing nations) from Asia. In fact, this continent of yours truly has yet to be explored by the EU despite the white people being extremely good in conquering and creating vast empires (I mean come on, surely we can never call the Romans a bunch of black people. Ironically, the first empire in human history may have been founded by a black).

All in all, I can start with four Asians nations.

China:

The current economy of China looks like a paradox. On one hand, its foreign economy is going strong. Domestic wise, that's where questions are being asked. I still remember reading an article shared by my cousin Mark in Facebook where China's domestic economy woes lie in the local corporations. This is where the interesting part comes in:

If China is to start investing money into the UK, the key to how much can be done at least in the short run lies in the sterling pound. A falling GBP means an easier time for the investors. On the other end, Xi Jinping can also utilise UK's help in the longer run where China's economy can start avoiding being held hostage by the local corporations so as to speak (which is possibly what's happening right now).

Japan:

The least expected nation? Not so simple. Under the current Abe administration, Japan has yet to regain the dizzying height achieved by a certain Koizumi Junichirō. In fact, Japan's economy is still in a start-stop phase compared to America's fluctuating economy (read: at least something's happening in Obama's final 4 years in charge). Again, a falling GBP will present at least a decent opportunity for the Abe regime to at least start a bit of momentum via investment. The only problem? The Japanese are basically the most nationalistic people in Asia together with another Asian race. Which now comes to...

South Korea:

In recent years, the Park administration has started expanding its foreign economy reach. In fact, I'm pretty sure something had already been negotiated between 동명성왕 and Dārayava (i.e. trade relationship between South Korea and Iran). However, South Korea is also experiencing an economic limbo of sorts. Whether it was sparked by the MV Sewol tragedy or exacerbated by the whole scandal (and I say scandal due to certain damning evidence which may have implicated the current government as well), it doesn't matter. The fact is, the current outlook for the South Korean economy may still be in a dodgy territory (albeit the last time I saw negative headlines done by CNA was like months ago). Like the Japanese, the Koreans are fiercely proud of their racial identity (something which the Chinese have yet to catch up with). Unlike the Japanese, however, the Korean way of doing business is more malleable more oft than not (read: it seems that Japan has yet to approach Iran. And I'm not referring to nuclear technology). If Park Geun-hye can play her cards right, the UK can easily be another Iran (and I don't mean the religion, nukes, or the Jews). Yes, I'm talking about investment again.

Singapore:

By naming my country, either I must have been terribly crazy or I deserve an honourable mention from PM Lee himself. Singapore is currently entering a transition phase where the focus is now shifting towards the local SME. Whether our local SMEs can capitalise on a much weakened GBP remains to be seen. However, investing in the UK may not have come at a better time. Especially given our slowing economy. The only catch lies in our SGD currency value. A few months ago or so, the MAS decided to freeze the appreciation of SGD. Interestingly enough, I've read via an article a few months ago on how our R&D industry is experiencing a limbo of sorts. Without going into the specifics (since I'm no research officer working in CIRC), let me just say something crazy: In the event where there's a need for specific R&D projects concerning radiography, we have CIRC and the UK has the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Appeal vs Tourism

UK's investment appeal will most likely be brutally hit in the short run. However, a falling GBP also means a potential spike in tourism. If the UK wants to rake in more money to build up a new foundation, tourism is most likely the easiest way to do so. It's like the MAS freezing the SGD currency value where tourism will end up being the most viable option. However, a successful declaration of independence from Scotland will have a devastating effect in this area. Not only will that result in a potential chain reaction (since being English means you're never an Irish as well), the economy can easily end up like the Titanic. No, make that possible worse.

The American factor

Whatever reaction coming from the US will also play a vital role. Traditionally, America and the UK have been close allies. The fact that we got a Brexit won't destroy this relationship. At least not overnight (after all, it's not as if Osama bin Laden was hiding in a nation full of Anglo-Saxons and infidels). At the very least, however, I can foresee the US playing the middleman role should the UK be really interested in Japan converting its JPY into GBP.

And lastly, the future of football

Let's be frank. The FA is definitely pro-Bremain. Ditto for the English football teams across every tier. While I don't see any disastrous changes to the current EU players plying their trade there (unless the EU decides to do something incredibly stupid, that is), the tricky part lies in the future transfer market. Quite likely the clubs may be forced to look somewhere else. Even likelier is that hopeful scenario where more homegrown talents will come to the fore. Pessimists will say the smaller clubs will be at a massive disadvantage. After all, British players are notoriously overpriced. As a result, they're also deemed equally overrated as well. Let me play the idealist's advocate for this once here.

Take for example my beloved Boro. Assuming Steve Gibson received a bid of around 5 million quids for his nephew dearest from Ronald Koeman's current boss. So what should be Gibson Sr do? The wise thing to do is NOT to hold out for a better deal. Rather, he should set an example for Boro's fellow clubs (i.e. all the clubs deemed as small by the elitists). Not for sale, not even for the price of Gareth Bale. In this way, local football development will beneift on the whole. The big players will be forced to do youth development, the smaller lads in turn will be motivated to do the same thing. Ultimately, it will down to how the budget is being managed. Not to mention the players as well of course.

Note: If there's any decent chance of tabloids shutting themselves up when it comes to inflating egos and sales, this will be it.




P.S to the Three Lions: Can you all just show the world how sore in the arse the team is as a result of the referendum?

Sorry, can't find a higher res...

Add P.S: While a Brexit may not lead to an imminent disintegration of the EU, the Brits may have unwittingly pulled off an Edward of Woodstock instead of a William Wallace. In other words, countries like France and the Netherlands will be emboldened to play hardball tactics in the event of negotiating. To quote a beloved knight of the United Kingdom:

Final P.S: At the same time, another beloved knight of the United Kingdom may have something to say as well...

Leaked song...

Okay, I've decided to write up my Euro 2016 @My girlfriend born in 1986 only after 22nd June. This will be when the group phase ends. The reason why is very simple. After my church camp, I've missed out too much. Too much for me to write something. In other words, I'm an obsessive self-perfectionist.

In other news...

Mr Chou ain't a happy Mr Chou. Not to be confused with another certain Mr Chow made famous by Ken Jeong (who by the way ain't Chinese. If you think the wrong Mr Chow is truly one, RDJ has something to say about Hollywood).

At the same time, I'll be doing a post on Arylos @Tueur de Roi due to my quirky tendency to tweak the gameplay. I prefer to think that with every new skill set, I'm getting better despite having no real experience in hardcore gaming.

The reason behind Mr Chou being an unhappy Mr Chou?

This one

Theme~Beyond Time

Lyrics


Lyrics

And now for the latest version (plus all the memorable scenes)
Disclaimer: I don't make the vids. Therefore, any lack of subs is not my problem.



Below scene took place much later. One season later to be exact...


Okay, let's continue...

Basically, this is a case of Illya trying to kill Shirou, Rin, and Saber (Archer excluded because he's actually smart enough to snipe from the highest ground). Long story short, Archer tried to kill everyone present so as to speak. Illya quite obviously didn't know Archer's real identity. Then again, it didn't prevent her from voicing her appreciation towards Rin's Servant. No mean feat given Illya's screwed up character (and speaking of screwed up characters, we will have Round 2 come 2017).

Okay, so let's continue via an alternate POV. Well, sorta anyway...

Then we have both POVs hashed together...


Okay, last part...

The final video is all about Rin wanting to form a new contract with Archer. Archer refused, Rin protested he wouldn't be saved if he refused (i.e. at least his inner demons would be more bearable if he agreed). Archer replied instead that Rin should just take care of his own self (i.e. Shirou). I can't say if Archer is considered saved by the end of the route. At least we do know that he had finally chosen not to harbour any regret over his irreversible decision made countless years ago.

And finally, I got the last 2 songs for ya...

Lyrics

Lyrics

Der Königsmörder II

Hopefully, I can finish my Arylos piece here. Either way, we'll be having a Mod 10 come this August. Entitled Storm King's Thunder, we'll be going back to where it all began in terms of R.A Salvatore's career as we know it: Icewind Dale. Out of the Ten Towns, it seems that only Bryn Shander was more willing to accept Drizzt upon merit rather than reputation. It's like me being accepted by Middlesbrough F.C as a talent upon the merit of ability, not the merit of my ITE cert. Productive failure has never felt this good. Thanks to Mr Salvatore himself.

Continuation from The Maze Engine...

I'm pretty sure it will take Mod 11 to explain what kind of nefarious scheme awaits both Neverwinter and the cult of Elemental Evil (in courtesy of Vizeran DeVir, no less). Until then, I find it quite amusing to imagine Arylos and Cyrea taking centre stage come August. Not only is August the month of my country's independence, Arylos as a character is also the alter-ego of a Singaporean who was deemed a productive failure. Namely yours truly (conversely speaking, it means Cyrea Durothil can be interpreted as a local Singaporean girl who is rich, beautiful, and intelligent. Whoever she may be... *shrugs*). The best part of the deal? We finally get to see Catti-brie and Wulfgar. Hopefully, we will know by August the reason why the last two members of the legendary Companions of the Hall went MIA during the events of Underdark and Maze Engine. Come to think of it, Iruladoon will most likely be a major player this time round (after all, Mielikki did pick the correct location and boundary).

In other news, perhaps Myrreas will join in the fun as well. After all, Dagult Neverember may want to see him dead for some reason or another.

Why Arylos and Cyrea?

Apart from my intention to troll the marriage status quo in my country, I think every one of you knew that worst kept secret ever since Rhaegar Targaryen decided to rebel against the local social norms. Yes, Arylos and Cyrea Durothil are an item because I said so. In fact, the reason why is down to the high likelihood that Ed Greenwood won't recommend whatever I've planned to WotC. Let alone Mr Salvatore himself. *shrugs*

Which now comes to the tricky part. How am I going to ease the pair together instead of a shotgun chemistry? As a purist in story telling, I'd never do that. They say opposites attract, but how are you going to do so? I won't be surprised if Cyrea hated Arylos' guts in the same way no beautiful A*STAR scholar graduated from Charles Sturt University would ever take a liking to some porter working in the SGH. *shrugs*

Relevance of Isil Dragonsbane

I swear that plagiarism is the last thing on my mind on this guy. Yes, I know what ISIL stands for. If I want to be politically incorrect (and trust me when I say I am), the correct acronym should either IS (Islamic State) or ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria). If you're worried about human stupidity, it means this is something verily real and incurable. Not to mention incorrigible in nature as well. Do I need any more reason to be cynical when it comes to human intelligence? This is not to say Levant isn't counted as part of legitimate English. Quite likely the final alphabet of ISIL refers to the final ambition of Al-Baghdadi himself. After all, Israel is part of the Levant and we all know how much the terrorists want to kill the Jews (not to mention Christians like yours truly as well).

Note: Funnily enough, I tend to use IS instead of ISIS whenever I feel like exposing their strategy. Perhaps I'm not so politically incorrect after all. 8shurgs*

When I first planned for a focal villain in my Neverwinter Six saga, two aspects come to mind.

1. I feel like creating an agent of Cyric inspired by ISIS/ISIL/IS/whatever names you can come up for Raqqah and Al-Baghdadi himself.

2. The timeline was actually post-game.

I do not have a problem with point 1. Things do change quite a bit though for point 2. This was exactly why I had to think about whether to keep Isil Dragonsbane or to remove him completely. After coming to terms with whatever alternatives available, I decided to keep rather than removing. Thanks to Mr Salvatore, I actually realized that I can easily utilize the technique of prequel writing. Release-wise, the Icewind Dale trilogy was the first series to hit the bookshelves. Chronologically, it was the Dark Elf trilogy which was conceived first. Interestingly, Drizzt's journey to find a home actually mirrored Arylos' predicament as a lone wolf without a home. The differences, however, could never be any more contrasting.

Now back to Isil Dragonsbane. I swear this is a product of creativity gone dry. After all, I'm only a human being just like the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew. In short, any form of plagiarism is 100% unintentional and accidental.

Race-wise, my original take was some hulking dude. Perhaps a half-orc or even a full-blooded orc. Yet, I can never tear myself from the imagery of an evil dragonborn. After some consideration, I decided to obey my heart rather than my head. I'm born a creative genius (?) after all, not some gifted academic graduated from an elite education.

Amazingly enough, Sergeant Knox will actually mention the real hero of Neverwinter if you happen to complete Vault of the Nine prior to creating a new character. See where this is going? ;)

Note: Oh crap. Just discovered that Dragonsbane is also the last name of a certain monarch ruling Damara. That is until he's rumored to be assassinated. Either Cyric will be having fun with the living or I'll have to do an Ahnuld.

Aspect of the Lone Wolf. Literally

Aspect of the Lone Wolf is an actual class feature skill for the hunter ranger. In fact, it's quite likely the most commonly used class feature for hunter rangers due to its excellent defensive qualities. When we talk about a lone wolf, the first thing coming to mind will be the lone terrorist attack (something like the recent Paris terror attack last year). However, lone wolf can also refer to a social pariah. This is exactly the reason why Fenmarel Mestarine is known as the Lone Wolf among the Seldarine (most likely ever since Lolth outed herself as the head of elven terrorism). Likewise, Arylos is also a lone wolf. In fact, Irion the Hunter (i.e. Arylos' second mentor after Heriol the Warder) referred to him as "a spitting image of my god Fenmarel Mestarine if there is truly one."

As you all may have known by now, Arylos was no different from an abandoned child right from the start. As an infant, he was abandoned to die. As a young lad, he was no different from being abandoned due to the death of Brave Unknown (i.e. the name given by his fellow Whelunians). When Wheloon was officially declared a prison city, he was effectively orphaned for good. And it didn't really help that Arylos spent pretty much 99% of his current life without emotions. Maybe literally, maybe not totally. Who knows?

How he managed to escape from that Changi Prison City (i.e. Wheloon), I'm not gonna spoil it for you. After all, spoiling the romantic aspect is already bad enough. However, I can say that his first mentor may have taught quite a bit of stuff. Ironically, Arylos would eventually become to the current Neverwinter what Heriol was to the same city countless years ago. After all, both the Sons of Alagondar and Dagult Neverember called themselves the legitimate ruler of Neverwinter (for the former, it's specifically Arlon Bladeshaper if you noticed what the in-game lore said from his POV).

["Ah, the one and only Hero of Neverwinter!"

Before the cheerful greeting, Arylos paid no heed as the half-elf sat down in front of him. Abruptly, the atmosphere changed. A deathly silence pervaded their surroundings, yet not one of the other patrons turned a glance towards them. Gone was that wide grin of his, the half-elf now assuming a wry smile and an imposing gaze.

"I'm waiting for someone. State your business and begone," whispered the wood elf, his amber orbs never departing from his counterpart, "Unless of course you're the one sending this message."

"A keen eye and that sharpest perception," sighed the lean leader of his group as he took the parchment from Arylos, "Let's cut the chase then. I already have her killed."

"An act befitting of Arlon Bladeshaper," came the dry reply.

"I could have done worse to that beautiful lackey of the Lord Pretender. Rest assured, however, that I grant the envoy a quick death while ordering my men not to rape her. Lost one good man because of his attempted insubordination, however."

"Truly a shame," nodded Arylos slightly, "Tell me the truth. Karzov is merely your puppet. Am I right?"

"What makes you think so?"

"Once an Uthgardt, forever one. Holding back while restraining that bestial fury of his is never approved by the Battle Fathe."

Arlon then let out a laugh, but it was nothing like that cheerful tone behind his greeting. It was a chilling laugh, the very tone sending a shiver down every listener's spine. From the basement till the second level, all were pierced by his laughter.

"Bravo! Bravo!" smirked the rebel leader, his slow applause reverberating throughout the entire Driftwood Tavern, "You are truly spot on, my friend. Why not we join forces to smite that mongrel who calls himself a king? With my leadership and your tactical brilliance, surely..."

"I'm not interested in playing your game any more than being interested in Neverember's gold. Now if you excuse me, I have something to take care of."

As Arylos climbed up the steps, a female attendant drew out her poisoned dagger. Only to be stopped by Arlon himself.

"No, Honor. I prefer that our hero stays alive."

"But..."

"Do not let me repeat myself."

Before Arlon's ice cold gaze, Honor Reigh could only stay rooted on the floor as terror seized her racing heart.

"I like him. Wit, foresight, and above all his guts. He knew I won't kill him."

"Why?" asked another attendant, his raspy voice masking a dissatisfaction caused by Arylos' snub.

"Because he is not interested in interfering with our war. That Lord Pretender knows just as much, that's why our hero is still stuck with the thankless task of leading the rangers of Neverwinter."

"And that Arylos knew it," murmured a shaken Honor Reigh, "Very different from that freak of an Arkaiun."

"Different from Alphonse Knox, yes. Equally valuable, definitely," answered Arlon, his grin never fading, "Let's go, my merry underlings. Back to where we first belong after Cymril's death."]

Note: If you really think Arlon Bladeshaper is a half-elf, then you're obviously too dumb to live. So far so good, Ed Greenwood has yet to open his golden mouth.

Strategic genius, a master tactician

There's a difference between being gifted and maximizing your talent. For Arylos, he already displayed a knack for understanding tactics and strategy under the tutelage of Tunaster Dranik. However, it was under the darkness of Wheloon after it was sealed off that he started displaying the brutal efficiency of his mind. Ever mindful of words and surroundings, no faction or individual could ever harm even a hair on his head.

Upon his escape into the Hermit's Wood, Arylos encountered a ghost. Having nothing to live for, he was nevertheless saved by that very spirit. Revealing himself as Heriol the Warder, Arylos soon discovered that this Heriol was none other than the original hero of Neverwinter. Impressed by the sharp perception evident in Arylos, Heriol decided to impart what he knew unto the wood elf. If his days at Wheloon had honed Arylos' situational awareness, then Heriol's tutelage allowed him to understand the skill of deployment. As a paladin of Torm, the deceased hero also tried to drill his code of honor into Arylos' mind. This time round, he was met with constant failure. No thanks to his past trauma, Arylos rejected what others liked to call honor and chivalry with a sneer.

Eventually, it was the irreconcilable differences caused by individual beliefs which drove a wedge between teacher and protege. Parting on amicable terms nevertheless, Heriol managed to send a message to an old friend of his. With Arylos discovered by a spellscarred wood elf by the name of Irion the Hunter, Heriol at last departed from the Prime Material Plane in peace.

Under the watchful eye of Irion, Arylos managed to put in full use what he learned throughout his entire years. Impressed by what he saw, the rest of the Eldreth Veluuthra nonetheless chose to treat Irion's disciple with disdain. For Arylos was nothing more than an interloper, a genius without value.

As fate would have it, Arylos was sent to the Neverwinter Wood at the command of Torynnar Rhaevaern, the unofficial leader of Vel'Nikeryma. It was there where he first met the Forsworn, members of the Gray Wolf Tribe who desired a way back to Uthgardtheim instead of Shar's embrace. With a chance to start anew and perhaps resolving a haunted past, where would the lone wolf go after all has been done?

~My character sheet (?) for Arylos

Brief intro on the women in Arylos' life (so far, that is)

Korey:

A Koryan maiden adopted by a local hothands named Stev Gibbons, she was the only person brave enough to approach Arylos. For he had lost his emotions by then, thus earning the fear of others around him. After all, who could forget that riot happening prior to discovering him as an abandoned infant? Or that traumatic death befalling Brave Unknown, something which was wrongfully blamed upon him? In a catastrophic sequence of events sparked by sudden anger unexplained, Azoun V was forced to seal off Wheloon in the name of security. Stev was brutally lynched by an angry mob as a result, Korey, in turn, was gang raped by the very same bunch of men. Arylos could only watch in horror, the mob oblivious to the wood elf hiding in one corner. Ironically, this was when he experienced emotions like before. Never to forget such a grievous wrong, Arylos proceeded to exact vengeance upon every member of that mob. For he remembered clearly their faces, he managed to extract their names and favorite haunt. It was at a rundown tavern where he unleashed a massive explosion via the use of a doohickey made by a priest of Gond. He cared not how many lives were forced to accompany the murderers as a result. The only memory engraved in his heart and mind was that Korey committing suicide. Together as well the words Arylos whispered before unleashing his inevitable act of revenge.

"Kelemvor sends his regards."

Real life blueprint

Bellyn:

A Forsworn who was the daughter of Thalos Oathbreaker, she took offense at Arylos at the very beginning. Accusing him of being a voyeur where in fact he was waiting for a particularly dangerous gnoll to pass by, she grew to be curious about that emotionless Or-tel-quessir. This emotion, however, didn't set in until later. In a chance encounter, Arylos managed to save Thalos from a raging ogre affected by Shar's maddening touch. During the conversation, Arylos exposed Thalos' facade as a leader unwilling to fight his own people gone astray. Explaining that the leader of the Forsworn was merely preserving his own fighters for that one decisive battle, Arylos, in turn, earned the respect of every Forsworn. Starting from Thalos no less. It was during this time that Bellyn felt a sense of intrigue.

Who is this stranger who earned father's respect?

Why is he so cold and merciless despite having both flesh and blood?

What manner of a man he truly is?

Those questions spurred her to approach the Or-tel-quessir, but without success. At last, however, tragedy struck. In a battle against the Dark Hunter, Bellyn was infected by that very same darkness plaguing the ogre which nearly killed Thalos last time round. For the Dark Hunter was nothing more than a perverse image of Uthgar, a lie concieved by Shar's deception towards the Gray Wolf Tribe. Forced to make a decision, Arylos drew his bow. His resolve never wavering, his hand never trembled. As Bellyn asked Arylos whether he had ever loved her in spite of his unfeeling attitude, the wood elf gave an answer which unexpectedly brought her peace.

"Uthgar is never my god, you are never my love."

Real life blueprint

Korey:

Not to be confused with the first Korey, this Koryan lass was discovered naked in Arylos' patrol vicinity. Still a lone wolf fighting against random incursions, the Kelemvorite had already amassed a fearsome reputation even among the followers of Gruumsh. Ironically known as the God of Death, Arylos was swiftly forced to stand his ground against a group of Thayan slavers. Choosing not to kill the unconscious slave, Arylos wrapped her in his own cloak and carried her back to his abode. News of his uncharacteristic mercy soon spread among his elven brethren like wildfire, many were the ones calling for execution to be meted out. If not for Irion suggesting an alternative, surely both Arylos and Korey would have been riddled with arrows. In exchange for her life, however, Arylos must train her how to kill without mercy. Not only that, she must also murder her own emotions as a result. Grateful for his deed of kindness, the girl chose to take this path with nary a hesitation. Due to her status as an amnesiac, Arylos had to give her a new name. Inexplicably, he named her after that woman he failed to protect all the while: Korey.

Real life blueprint

Brief intro on the holy men (actually only three because my focus running a bit low)

Doomguide Volahk:

Ever a firm believer in Kelemvor's requirement to comfort the mourning, Volahk is never one to disrespect the dead. Arguably the most powerful doomguide in terms of turning the undead, he was the chief reason why the Neverdeath Graveyard enjoyed plenty of peaceful years where incursions were seen merely as a daily inconvenience. Together with his fellow doomguide Orran, the duo was seen as the bastion of Doomguide's Watch. Towards Arylos, however, he reserved nothing but contempt. For he could never understand the manner which Arylos perceived death in the same way the wood elf couldn't be bothered to consider the senior doomguide's way of seeing death. Yet as Orran has pointed out more oft than not, neither of them were wrong in the same manner neither party should be seen as completely right.

Doomguide Orran:

Like Volahk, Orran held more closely the benevolent aspect of death instead of its harsher side. Unlike his comrade, however, Orran was never a judgmental person. In fact, he would always be the one stepping in whenever a conflict between Volahk and Arylos seemed inevitable. If Volahk was the most powerful enemy of the undead, then Orran would be that master of the sword. In fact, no doomguide is better suited for dealing with the Red Wizards of Thay than the Hewer of Kelemvor himself.

Doomguide Vesper Soulhearth:

A Damaran by birth, Vesper was known both as a fearsome warrior and a leader of equal standard. Rumored to be a bastard son of Yarin Frostmantle, the present king of Damara, Vesper nevertheless scoffed at such an insult. Not only was he already a sellsword long before Yarin assumed the throne, he also held the tyrant in contempt. Even unto now, this view has yet to display signs of waning. In a chance meeting with Lorelei Gravesower at Kelemvor's Garden, Vesper decided to quit his life of killing and looting. Instead, he swore piety to Kelemvor and pledged his life to that of a doomguide. Still retaining a semblance of his old temper, Vesper's previous act of violence actually involved an ongoing scurrilous lie accusing Lorelei of being a harlot. Suffice to say, the speaker was treated with numerous punches and a few broken ribs. Out of the many doomguides aiding Neverwinter, Vesper was one of the very few willing to befriend Arylos despite the Or-tel-quessir's resistance.

Well, guess that's the end of my post.

Let's see if I can come up with lyrics for my ideal Kalafina song for the Neverwinter Six saga.

Credit: biocrewman

You don't know what is Chinese spare ribs?

I suddenly remembered an interesting scene concerning racism. As a child, I remembered a racism scene in Bruce Lee's Enter the Dragon where there's this black guy asking one of the Chinese waiters for some Chinese spare ribs. When the Chinese guy went like "huh?", the black guy just replied "you don't know what is Chinese spare ribs?"
After that, the black guy just punched the poor guy on the ribs. Very bad, right? Wait till you imagine Bruce Lee reversing the tables (pardon the pun since it's a restaurant scene). Which he really did anyway.

Since then, we Chinese are stereotyped as masters of kung-fu. Whatever you do, please don't trust Hollywood.

Another thing we Chinese are famous for?

Romance. If you're fan of Twilight, it means you should also have a go at ancient Chinese romance. More oft than, it involves beautiful girls and guys who are outright dumb. The girl will be a fox demon while the guy will be the dumb scholar. It's either that or the guy will be a super powerful swordsman (quite likely a genius to start with), only to be a loser before the girl he likes. Sounds corny? Well, plenty of people will say Twilight is corny anyway. True or not, I cannot tell you unless I get a girlfriend who is a Twi-hard.

Above meme shouldn't be seen as how I see my ideal rich, beautiful, and intelligent girlfriend.

Either way, I'm only doing this for the song...

...Theme: Not Even Death Shall Do Us Part

(i.e. you really believe in reincarnation?)

Above song is the mainstream version of this theme

Below is my reply to the mainstream version

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Chinese_Ghost_Story



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Chinese_Ghost_Story_II

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Tales*

*I still remember the Xiaocui arc. That had to be the best one. The ending was quite heartrending in a surreal way.

Note: If you know Cantonese, then why are you asking me how to pronounce the surname Wu in Cantonese. I really find this kind of situation absolutely weird. And to think it really happened to me during 2013. :S

Add note: Let me just say that the surname Wu is pronounced as Ng in Cantonese. I hope this satisfies that auntie who asked me this stupid question. Or is it really a stupid question? What if this is a trap requested by a girl who is 4 years younger than me? Why am I even asking this retarded question to begin with?

Okay, let's continue...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Painted_Skin_(2008_film)*

*I suddenly realized this movie may have made a certain Qi Yuwu a wee bit famous before Joanne Peh made him even more famous. Not that he really needs that much fame anyway.

I swear you won't find the below two songs anywhere apart from the internet...
(In other news, Amos Yee has yet again trolled the internet. Well sorta anyway...)

http://wiki.wuxiaedge.com/index.php/Legend_of_the_Ancient_Sword

Only for those who understand Chinese
Same as above

P.S: Suddenly realized two things. Firstly, the sword can also be seen as a tactician/strategist's symbol while the zither can be seen seen as a bard's symbol. Secondly, I recall taking a picture of two keychains I bought 4 teh lolz during my fellowship trip to NegaraKukup.

Diplomacy anyone?

This morning, I realized I've done something very dumb. I'll have to admit that my brain wasn't working properly last night. Plagued by fatigue, I ended up calling the world of Dusk and Steel Worldsea. Sounds innocuous? Wait till you see the extent of my stupidity. Those familiar with Ursula K. Le Guin's Earthsea will surely scream hell and high murder (more specifically theft and plagiarism). Recently, my country has stepped up its efforts in diplomacy (something which keeps my nation ticking in a global sense). President Tony Tan had just visited Pope Francis I, perhaps we will see the Pope returning the favor by visiting my country. Who knows? As for Ursula K. Le Guin herself, maybe she will adopt another means of diplomacy. This time round with Prime Minister Lee no less. It is common knowledge that PM Lee is that VIP patron of Drew & Napier. Imagine what will happen if Ursula K. Le Guin decided to hire the same law firm. Quite obviously someone would have recommended Drew & Napier to her, what is even more obvious will be the fact that I'll be having free food and lodging at Changi.

Because I do not want to risk having a staple diet of black beans and rice...

I decided to modify certain things. Firstly, I declare Worldsea as illegal. Which means I will have to find a new name for my world. Mannan... yes, that sounds cool. Because I know plenty of my fellow Singaporeans are more familiar with the Greek and Egyptian pantheon, let me explain that Mannan is, in fact, Manannán mac Lir. Because there is more than one ethnicity in ancient Ireland, Manannán mac Lir basically goes by a few naming variations.

Manannán mac Lir: Old Irish

Manannán: Modern Irish and Scottish Gaelic

Mannan: Manx Gaelic

Manannán mac Lir sounds too long a name for a fantasy world, I had to choose between Manannán and Mannan. After a brief moment of "eeny, meeny, miny, moe" (not to be confused with Jeremy Clarkson's version), I decided to choose Mannan. Thankfully, choosing my girlfriend should never be that simple.

Islands, a big sea, and technology (or rather the lack thereof)

In a twisted sense, I believe my fellow Singaporeans will take a liking to the Earthsea universe. Firstly and foremost, there are only islands. No continents, not even a peninsula in sight. Secondly, the level of technology is virtually zero. Comparing an Iron Age fantasy backdrop with the contemporary fantasy world is no different from comparing the US with my country more than half a century ago.

So in a nutshell, Earthsea is all about iron and bronze, islands and plenty of water.

I was actually thinking of an interesting idea. What if I modify Earthsea into something a wee bit different? Will I still get sued by Ursula K. Le Guin? Will Drew & Napier let me off?

Most importantly, will I end up impressing a beautiful local girl who is also rich and intelligent at the same time?

Modifications in the name of creativity (???!!!?!!!)

By the end of this post, I won't blame any of you for saying "hey, the creativity here looks Korean!" Of course, the irony will be very evident by then. When I was a lad during my NSF days, I was a fanboy of BoA. At this current point of time, I realized I enjoy using Park Shin-hye as some sort of real-life blueprint.

On the land mass, I decided to create two continents and a massive archipelago. The first continent is Lyonore while the other is Teutos. The massive archipelago is situated at the south of Mannan (more on this Ryukyu later, ditto for the Germans and French).

Lyonore is at the west, Teutos is slightly further up (more specifically northeast to Lyonore). There's an interesting interlude in the process of placement. If you have a BFF in Hamburg, most likely she will tell you why Germany had to invade France during the Second World War. You see, France is situated in the southwest of Germany. It's simple geography, that's why Hitler started losing the plot completely upon Normandy being retaken by the alliance of Winston Churchill, the French, and (most likely as well) those daring Jews (not to mention the Yanks joining in the fun after the Japanese were dumb enough to bomb Pearl Harbor). And yes, that eastern Joe as well if we're talking about parking a dummy army for Hitler to fight (i.e. this eastern Joe, not the other Joe of the East).

Enough of digression and Hamburg plus hamburgers. Let's continue.

The size of Lyonore is roughly the whole of Europe. The same goes for Teutos as well. As for that massive archipelago, I'll most likely set the boundary as twice the reach of Indonesia.

You need to money to survive

That's the cold hard truth about reality. People will commit crimes in the name of money, people will even commit suicide because of money woes. Money may be the root of all evil, but that is because you can't survive without money. And if you cannot survive without money, it means you can never enjoy your own money.

The economy in Mannan is quite advanced. Due to a smaller overall land mass, marine trade routes have become the primary way for anyone (and any settlement) to get rich fast. While we as Singaporeans may be more familiar with the British Empire (since Sir Stamford Raffles was a Brit), it must be noted that empires built upon maritime supremacy had been a bedrock of history. In fact, even Zheng He had showed us that even the Chinese understood the art of seafaring. This was despite the Empire of China being a myth (note that a dynasty doesn't automatically equate to an empire. Look to Genghis Khan and the Middle East if you want to know what is an Asian empire. Japan failed terribly bad in an attempt to emulate the Persians, Mongolians, and Ottoman Turks).

During the Roman era, seafaring was already well established. As early as the Greeks before them, people already knew how to sail a galley. In fact, the earliest people to colonize areas via the ocean were the Celts. As a people, the Celts included Gaels (i.e. those living in the northern half of British Isles) and Brythonic Celts (those living in the southern half of British Isles). That was before the Anglo-Saxons decided to say hi.

Therefore, it's only fitting that I decided to create a robust global economy where any settlement can be my equivalent of Singapore (and yes, the British Isles is basically where Sir Stamford Raffles and his best mate William Farquhar came from. Pretty sure they had Anglo-Saxon genes instead of Celtic genealogy though).

This is the truth when it comes to money making between Lyonore, Teutos, and the Confederation of the Seafolk.

You need politics, no matter how much you hate them politicians

I've yet to draft out an effective political model when it comes to diplomacy. This is especially so between Lyonore and Teutos. While the concept of war can be quite fun to play with, one does not simply go to war if there's a risk of money going up in flames. A lot may have been said about China in a negative sense, but at least I have to admit that it does have a prevailing economic influence on a global scale (politically-wise though, I can't say whether it's already on the par with America). Unlike the recent South China Sea dispute (and the not-so-much-reported Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands and Dokdo/Takeshima saga), I don't think I can come up with something convincing unless it's something... well, drastic.

As for the Confederation of the Seafolk, my plan is nothing less than straightforward. Namely the richest faction out of the three. However, I must also stress home the fact that being economic excellence doesn't translate to military excellence by default. I know it sounds a bit Korean (after all, Silla was apparently weaker than Baekje and Goguryeo), but it must also be noted that any manner of foreign policy has to be decided by two main factors:

1. Who has a bigger bank account

2. Who has a bigger stick

Which is why I find this particular scene in Iron Man quite amusing (not the sex scene, but the political aspect).

There are two ways to justify the presence of arms and forces. Either it's mutual animosity or mutual survival/interest at stake (yes, I know both ends of Syria hate the IS. You don't have to tell me that). One thing I've learnt from reading fantasy novels is that portrayal of politics is much harder than doing a well-written war scene. Perhaps that's the reason why it is easier for someone to portray action scenes than courtroom intrigue. After all, politics is a higher form of warfare where soldiers and the sword are replaced by gentlemen and the pen (Hopefully, we don't have to see another nuclear be dropped. That will set back the evolution of conflict by more than half a century).

Okay, I'll be continuing this verily soon. For now, I need to sleep. Maybe I need to take a brief shower since the temperature here has hit 30 despite being 1am now. I'll have the entire tomorrow for myself though, so hopefully I won't go off on a massive tangent. 

Next: Culture, people, and different colours. Maybe even the correct daughter of Rahmat as well.

[Fionee: When was the last time you came to me for help? Ten years ago?

Flayne Iceburn: Five to be exact. Your memory needs some help. And please don't insist I've agreed to marry you. Black and white don't simply mix together, I don't want to have a bunch of grey kids.

Fionee: Nothing has changed, it seems. Apart from your new friends, that is.

Flayne Iceburn: I don't know about my privileged sidekicks. But yeah, everything about me still stays the same.

Fionee: Brown skin, white hair, and that rascally look.

Flayne Iceburn: Yeah, I know. Like excrement topped with milk. Brandy please, thank you.]