And.... I'm on time!
Today, I'm going to skip the nonsense talk and jump straight into review reply. As I mentioned in the previous post, I was embarrassed that I did not check the ffnet website to see if I got any reviews. I've been relying on email notifications too much. Gee. That might mean that all alerts and faves are not sent to me too!
Anyway, because there have been many reviews, I've decided to reply them all here (because it's not nice to waste space on ff.net, right? :P)
Jefri: Gee, I hadn't realised that you've asked so many questions! Why don't you just ask me whenever you see me? XD Anyway, here we go with all the answers! Human and Cetra give birth to half-Cetra naturally (Aerith is half Cetra half human, isn't she? :)) Vincent didn't kill Hojo, AVALANCHE did. You won't see much of Vincent because it's a Meia story! Hahah! He is not a main character, sadly. But I will see how I can include more of him (no guarantee, though). The exiled Turks fought Jade WEAPON, but otherwise played no part in the FF7 storyline. Thus, we shall just assume that AVALANCHE fought (or ignored) the other WEAPONs.
And that should answer most of your questions, Jef. Thank you for being so faithful to my story. You've even got yourself an account!! *clap clap*
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Takara: Hello faithful reader! Thank you for reviewing every single time! From your reviews I can feel your emotions towards the story and it makes me happy. It feels awesome to know that my readers are feeling strongly towards the characters. Hope you will stay with me till the end!
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Guest of Chapter 36: thank you for leaving me a review! Haha, I've got telepathic powers!! *wriggle fingers* and yeah, I never will figure out the WEAPON conundrum. The people on Gaia just never refer to them by a specific name. Weird. I know for a fact that humans love to give names. :P Anddd I guess by Chapter 37 you realised that yes, I did write about Yuffie's ultimate weapon in the Sunken ship. Hurray for details!
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koryandrs: Yes I'm back! Thank you for leaving a comment! Hope to see you around more often! By the way, you have a really cute name. Am I supposed to pronounce it like the plant 'coriander'? :P
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Occupational Haz/kadajclone10: Hehe, sorry for disappearing like that. I hope I don't do it anymore. I love it whenever you leave a review. It's almost like reading a thesis. You always give such great insight, and I treasure it a lot (mainly because you seem to have read/played/watched most if not all of FF7 compilation, credible knowledge you possess, oh great one!) I know you have been harping on the topic of the ambiguity of the Turk. Sorry that I haven't been jumping into that at all. I'm still brewing the story and pushing our characters into a certain direction. I do have an end goal in mind, but I'm not too sure if that would be good enough. Till then, do forgive the lack of explanation and tolerate any frustration from what may be signs of loopholes and contradiction.
Yes, I really love working with Meia, despite the fact that I've dropped some of her earlier characteristics. I also try my best to flesh out the 'villains'. Indeed, everyone has a grey and questionable area and it's simply a joy to argue in my head all day long, justifying one over another. Hurhur, sad is my life. I believe Tseng was referring to Ifalna, which means holy crap, I hope I didn't make a loophole anywhere! That was definitely a part that I overlooked, and now I'm nervous as to whether I made any mistakes in the previous chapters.
Anyway, I didn't mean for my review reply to drag on too, but a long and insightful review deserves an equally enthusiastic and appreciative reply :D
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Luckcharm/TWA: Why is everyone getting new names or changing their names? Haha! I feel so bad that I haven't been replying the reviews, I mean, I really did not get any of the notifications! *glare at ffnet* Okay, time to reply you!
I know, Tifa and Cloud are simply heartbreaking. I also go "aww" whenever I'm typing their scenes. It's funny actually, I'm a Cloti fan :P Don't worry, perhaps better days are ahead? Second, I had to do the scene of Leia and Haato because in hindsight, I was annoyed with myself for being so nice to Meia's Turk life. There's no way Meia could breeze through her Turk years like that. No one is dumb, neither am I. I definitely am not going to dwiddle my thumbs and wait for readers to bash me for making Meia a Mary Sue (the type that are immune to bad omens and incidents). Hahaha, Reno and Rude DEFINITELY have bromance! *dance in virtual confetti* I'm so proud of Tihan's name that I want to name my future child so! Just that... I can't because it totally sounds funny when you pronounce it with the family name (No, I'm not married, just.. fantasising like an idiot).
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Now, this is for all of you, whoever that is still reading. Yes, the story feels like it's at its end, but I still have many things in my head. Namely, whether I should even continue the story after Meteorfall. I'll discuss this with the rest of you in detail next time. Besides, I've got another few more months to decide... Who knows.
That's all for this week! I look forward to reading your lovely reviews! Have an awesome weekend!
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
What an embarrassment...
Hello readers.
Remember a few posts ago, I was all emo about why my readers are not active anymore? Here's what happened. After Chapter 35 or 36, I no longer received any more reviews to my email address. That was a shocker, because I could name a few readers that have been absolutely faithful. Nevertheless, I kept to my faith and uploaded Chapter 37... then 38... By the time I was at Chapter 39 I was bewildered. Why hasn't there been a single review?
Needless to say, I was devastated. I could not understand why no one was reviewing my story for the last one month. That, I admit, did make me less motivated to write. What's the point, if no one is there to enjoy it?
Long story short, I found out that FF.net has not been giving me email notifications about anything. Great. So here I was, all wallowed up in my own sorrow when all the time, everyone has been reviewing like normal. Even when I didn't respond to any of your reviews (because I didn't even know that they existed!), you reviewed faithfully.
I feel so stupid.
I'm sorry, guys. Really.
Thanks for never giving up on me. You give me courage to continue writing.
Well, at least until the end of Meteorfall, hehe.
Remember a few posts ago, I was all emo about why my readers are not active anymore? Here's what happened. After Chapter 35 or 36, I no longer received any more reviews to my email address. That was a shocker, because I could name a few readers that have been absolutely faithful. Nevertheless, I kept to my faith and uploaded Chapter 37... then 38... By the time I was at Chapter 39 I was bewildered. Why hasn't there been a single review?
Needless to say, I was devastated. I could not understand why no one was reviewing my story for the last one month. That, I admit, did make me less motivated to write. What's the point, if no one is there to enjoy it?
Long story short, I found out that FF.net has not been giving me email notifications about anything. Great. So here I was, all wallowed up in my own sorrow when all the time, everyone has been reviewing like normal. Even when I didn't respond to any of your reviews (because I didn't even know that they existed!), you reviewed faithfully.
I feel so stupid.
I'm sorry, guys. Really.
Thanks for never giving up on me. You give me courage to continue writing.
Well, at least until the end of Meteorfall, hehe.
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Cool! Tags!
Okay, I guess I'm off to a start here (since you know... I've ABSOLUTELY nothing to do while waiting for my hair to dry... -_-)1. The first character I first fell in love with
2. The character I never expected to love as much as I do now
3. The character everyone else loves that I don’t
4. The character I love that everyone else hates
5. The character I used to love but don’t any longer
6. The character I would totally smooch
7. The character I’d want to be like
8. The character I’d slap
9. A pairing that I love
10. A pairing that I despise
Fandom: Final Fantasy VII
Funnily, this game never made an impact to me when I first played the game... It was with replaying that I had better understanding. And it was when I was researching on FF7 for "I Want to Be a Turk!" that I really fell in love with some characters. Namely Zack Fair and Reno. Everyone else are like... alright.
1. First character that I first fell in love with. Gee. I really don't remember with FF7. If I dare say, the first character that made me fall in love is probably Reno. And that's YEARS after I've started playing.
2. The character I never expected to love as much as I do now. Once again, Reno. I didn't think much of the character... until I saw amazing HD hotness that was Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. Heheh. Every Reno fan tells the same story.
The runner ups would be Rude and Cid Highwind. Their presence in the story is a quiet yet ass-kicking one.
3. Character that everyone loves that I don't. Sephiroth. He's so darn cool, but I seriously think he is cuckoo up there. Generally, I dislike villains. Except the Turks, they're cool.
4. Character that I love but everyone hates. No one. I think everyone hates Hojo, but I dislike him too.
5. There aren't any characters that I used to love but don’t any longer. Like I said, FF7 did not have that kind of fangirl thing on me.
6. Character that I would totally smooch? Reno. Hands down, Reno.
7. The character I’d want to be like: Zack Fair. Sunny, strong, loyal. A close second would be Aerith Gainsborough.
8. The character I’d slap is either Cloud or Genesis. Cloud for the reason of not doing something to save Zack Fair. Genesis because seriously bro, what are you in the story for? The plot involving him was my least favourite part in Crisis Core, which is actually, the main storyline but well...
9. A pairing that I love: Zack and Aerith. I really think they were the most epic "What If?" pairing.
I came to this conclusion when I was pondering about life's hardest decision between CloudxTifa and CloudxAerith. Both pairings would've been beautiful, but if I really had to choose, I'll choose CloudxTifa for the sheer reason that ZackxAerith is perfect.
10. A pairing that I despise: Vincent Valentine and Yuffie. I saw no chemistry in any of the FF7 games. Another one would be Cid Highwind and Vincent Valentine. I mean, seriously???
There you go. Now I better make my time worthwhile by doing something productive.
Maybe do one more tag with the entire Final Fantasy fandom. Muahahaha.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
One month already?
As my surprised title suggests, it has been more than a month since I uploaded Days of Exile. I guess I'm done beating myself up for the lack of responsibility (though it's not that I'm denying responsibility!) Work had to take a bigger priority in this busy time of the year.
I was worried that my desire to write will disappear. Yes, in moments of my days where all I did after my work was to eat and sleep, I wondered if that was going to be the end of my writing journey. Then today, as I was listening to "Moves Like Jagger", I was reminded of my fanfic with the same name. That song never fails to remind me of how much fun I had listening to one of my favourite songs while writing. One thing is for sure, I can't wait to go back to write after this madness is over.
Okay, two more things. So I've been playing Final Fantasy 5 most of last week. The game has been good to me so far, still appealing and enchanting despite the 'age'. That reminds me, have I ever mentioned how I came across this awesome thing that is Final Fantasy? Some day, I will explain.
Also, I will be travelling from end November to end December. So much for writing, huh? But I will get a chapter or two uploaded before I fly off... *fingers crossed*
I was worried that my desire to write will disappear. Yes, in moments of my days where all I did after my work was to eat and sleep, I wondered if that was going to be the end of my writing journey. Then today, as I was listening to "Moves Like Jagger", I was reminded of my fanfic with the same name. That song never fails to remind me of how much fun I had listening to one of my favourite songs while writing. One thing is for sure, I can't wait to go back to write after this madness is over.
Okay, two more things. So I've been playing Final Fantasy 5 most of last week. The game has been good to me so far, still appealing and enchanting despite the 'age'. That reminds me, have I ever mentioned how I came across this awesome thing that is Final Fantasy? Some day, I will explain.
Also, I will be travelling from end November to end December. So much for writing, huh? But I will get a chapter or two uploaded before I fly off... *fingers crossed*
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Recent Happenings
Hello people.
Yes. Days Of Exile seems to be on standby.
Please give me some time to settle my life out. It's a very busy time of the year. It's basically work, which goes to show how terrible adult life is. I'm still writing on the side, but rarely.
When my life is not as busy anymore, I will love to continue what I've left off. Days of Exile, a possible new story, book reviews and etc. Then again, I'm not too sure if there are people who are still reading my stories, or my blog (yes Jeff, I know you are still reading my blog. Thank you!). But otherwise, I guess I'm back to being alone on my writing journey.
I admit. I am a little affected by the sudden disappearance of my readers. I can't blame them. I've disappeared from reading other fanfictions too, and I'm feeling darn guilty about it. Laziness kicks in and well, my readers won't miss a chapter or two missing off the usual uploading schedule right?
Right?
Yes. Days Of Exile seems to be on standby.
Please give me some time to settle my life out. It's a very busy time of the year. It's basically work, which goes to show how terrible adult life is. I'm still writing on the side, but rarely.
When my life is not as busy anymore, I will love to continue what I've left off. Days of Exile, a possible new story, book reviews and etc. Then again, I'm not too sure if there are people who are still reading my stories, or my blog (yes Jeff, I know you are still reading my blog. Thank you!). But otherwise, I guess I'm back to being alone on my writing journey.
I admit. I am a little affected by the sudden disappearance of my readers. I can't blame them. I've disappeared from reading other fanfictions too, and I'm feeling darn guilty about it. Laziness kicks in and well, my readers won't miss a chapter or two missing off the usual uploading schedule right?
Right?
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Days of Exile: Chapter 37
Hmm, I thought it was Chapter 27 that I'm uploading. How quickly time flies! Wasn't it just a while back that I first released Days of Exile? I had this impression that I only started Days of Exile in July 2013. Nooo, Days of Exile has been ongoing for more than a year already! Anyway, here are my author's notes for this chapter.
Did you like the new "Previously on Days of Exile.." section? I snitched it from Marvel. I have been reading "The New Avengers" and "Superior Superman". The first page is dedicated to explaining the events happening in the previous issue, or the events happening between the previous issue to 'now'.
Sidenote: It's just darn annoying that they can't maintain some sort of coherence. For people who are just reading "The New Avengers", how would I know what the heck happened in the other titles (they are all connected, the superheroes of Marvel)?
It was because many events happen at the same time, that Marvel had to do a recap page for readers. And I thought it'll be cool if I could that for my readers. One, they do not need to reread the previous chapter to recall the details. Secondly... if they did not understand the previous chapter, the recap will do a better job at explaining. That's how I solve my problems whenever I read an issue in The New Avengers that I wasn't too sure about.
So, what do you think? Do you like it or not? Seriously, I don't hear much from you people anymore. I don't even know if I'm doing this right. Moving on...
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Did you like the new "Previously on Days of Exile.." section? I snitched it from Marvel. I have been reading "The New Avengers" and "Superior Superman". The first page is dedicated to explaining the events happening in the previous issue, or the events happening between the previous issue to 'now'.
Sidenote: It's just darn annoying that they can't maintain some sort of coherence. For people who are just reading "The New Avengers", how would I know what the heck happened in the other titles (they are all connected, the superheroes of Marvel)?
It was because many events happen at the same time, that Marvel had to do a recap page for readers. And I thought it'll be cool if I could that for my readers. One, they do not need to reread the previous chapter to recall the details. Secondly... if they did not understand the previous chapter, the recap will do a better job at explaining. That's how I solve my problems whenever I read an issue in The New Avengers that I wasn't too sure about.
So, what do you think? Do you like it or not? Seriously, I don't hear much from you people anymore. I don't even know if I'm doing this right. Moving on...
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So I did a research on pronouncing
Heidegger’s name. I’ve always pronounced it as
“Hedge-dagger”, but goodness that’s simply adding too many phonetic sounds into
the letter. So finally, I got it. It’s “Hai-dagger”, or is it “Hai-der-ger”? At
least it’s not “hedge” anymore, is it?
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We've reached the thirteenth of January. Brace yourselves, people. This day is one of the most eventful days in the FF7
timeline. Dozen of things will happen on this day, in both the canon and my
story. The day might span across five to six chapters, depending on how good I
am at cutting down content. I’ll take note to only put in canon content that is
necessary for the story, but then again most of you readers have not had the
pleasure of experiencing FF7, so why the fuss?
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No one will know this, but the script simply has too many ellipses for my
liking. I know we were supposed to pause and make Cloud look like he was
trailing off and thinking with emotion. But it just made Cloud darn annoying,
as if he wasn’t already. I’m still not happy that he made Zack Fair die. So I made modifications to the script... by removing the "..." as much as I could. It's now easier to read, at least for me.
Alright, that's all for this week, and a long one too! I hope everyone has been fine. Don't let life eat you up... because it is totally consuming me now *sigh*
Read and review!
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Opps! Slight delay!
Folks, I apologise once again that my chapter is delayed. I haven't had the chance to proofread and check my chapter. I've been up to my nose with busy-ness for the last 7 days. I won't be free to look at my chapter till Wednesday, actually.
Dum, dum, dum!!!!
Most likely I'll get Chapter 35 up and running by Monday (GMT +8), but well, just in case I fail to keep my promise, the official chapter upload will be on Wednesday, 11 September.
In case you are wondering what I've been doing. It's simple - Work. But on top of that, I've been reading comics. Not manga though (I'm so behind schedule for that one too!), I've been reading American comics. So finally I've jumped onto the Marvel bandwagon and I'm reading The Superior Spiderman and The New Avengers. Remind me to talk about them someday, but it's highly unlikely that I will write a fanfic on it. Stan Lee and his team will laugh at me >_<
Dum, dum, dum!!!!
Most likely I'll get Chapter 35 up and running by Monday (GMT +8), but well, just in case I fail to keep my promise, the official chapter upload will be on Wednesday, 11 September.
In case you are wondering what I've been doing. It's simple - Work. But on top of that, I've been reading comics. Not manga though (I'm so behind schedule for that one too!), I've been reading American comics. So finally I've jumped onto the Marvel bandwagon and I'm reading The Superior Spiderman and The New Avengers. Remind me to talk about them someday, but it's highly unlikely that I will write a fanfic on it. Stan Lee and his team will laugh at me >_<
Friday, August 16, 2013
Letting go...
If you are wondering, "Oh. My. Gosh. Is she giving up on her fanfiction?" I'm sorry...
But you're WRONG!
I was referring to letting go of some of my old blogs when I was still a student. Because of circumstances of my job, I was advised to remove my blog posts in case my past comes and bites me. I wasn't some kind of delinquent, neither did I have a horrible past or anything of that sort. I just wanted to remove anything of my past online, just in case. Let's not talk about the amount of information stored for so long. I think a basic blog removal suffice.
I've been meaning to remove them for some time, but time was not on my side. Hey, I was working hard on "Days of Exile"! But today I had a little bit of time to do so, plus... certain circumstances have pushed me to do it as quickly as possible.
So I am in the middle of removing my blog, but first, I saved all my blog posts. Whoever said that I can't keep what I wrote? It was interesting to see how I wrote last time. I was more emotional and less... sophisticated with my words. It was a personal blog, after all.
As for this blog... I will obviously keep it. This is a semi-personal blog, I will just be more aware of my online conduct. As such is the mystery of my job. (A note to my friends in real life. Just do me a favour and not mention anything unnecessary.)
If you are wondering, "Days of Exile" is coming along fine. I'm still struggling to build back the chapters, but it's slowly forming. I'm currently writing one of the biggest events before Meteorfall. In one single day, many many many things happened. I foresee it spanning five to six chapters actually. I will cut down, of course. Just wondering how much I can cut down, that's all.
But you're WRONG!
I was referring to letting go of some of my old blogs when I was still a student. Because of circumstances of my job, I was advised to remove my blog posts in case my past comes and bites me. I wasn't some kind of delinquent, neither did I have a horrible past or anything of that sort. I just wanted to remove anything of my past online, just in case. Let's not talk about the amount of information stored for so long. I think a basic blog removal suffice.
I've been meaning to remove them for some time, but time was not on my side. Hey, I was working hard on "Days of Exile"! But today I had a little bit of time to do so, plus... certain circumstances have pushed me to do it as quickly as possible.
So I am in the middle of removing my blog, but first, I saved all my blog posts. Whoever said that I can't keep what I wrote? It was interesting to see how I wrote last time. I was more emotional and less... sophisticated with my words. It was a personal blog, after all.
As for this blog... I will obviously keep it. This is a semi-personal blog, I will just be more aware of my online conduct. As such is the mystery of my job. (A note to my friends in real life. Just do me a favour and not mention anything unnecessary.)
If you are wondering, "Days of Exile" is coming along fine. I'm still struggling to build back the chapters, but it's slowly forming. I'm currently writing one of the biggest events before Meteorfall. In one single day, many many many things happened. I foresee it spanning five to six chapters actually. I will cut down, of course. Just wondering how much I can cut down, that's all.
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Days of Exile: Chapter 31
Hoo
boy, another short chapter (by my standards)
I admit, I kinda like giving short chapters. For such a situation where I need to deliver chapters faster than I can write, giving short chapters was a morale booster for me to see that I can keep up with the update schedule. And for once, I can write knowing that my readers are going to read the words slowly and carefully because of the smaller chapters. Until I get back my bank of chapters, I believe this is what Days of Exile will become - shorter chapters, finally.
Now, to the story.
The
scenes of Tifa falling in the Lifestream and that scene where Tifa went zonkers
are from the game itself. I just did a little modifications here and there.
Honestly, the game never explained what happened to Tifa in that blank of dark
space. There was only sounds of guns and stuff. So, I took things into my own
hands and created the context myself. If there’s anyone who knows what happened
there, do share your insights!
And
of course, the scene with the presence of Aerith in the Lifestream is
completely made up, but it was heavily modified from a sentence in the FF7
novellas: The Maiden Who Travels the Planet. So the idea is not original. Aerith was
responsible in helping Tifa while they were in the Lifestream.
I admit, I am facing some mental block at how Meia will ever get herself out of Shinra's capture. I mean, when I first thought of the idea, I just went like "Oh, Meia will be captured, but then she'll get out eventually through *cough* and *cough* and then she will *cough*". Guess I didn't really plan this one through and through because it's a bit of a pain to link up everything together.
That's kinda the thing I have here. If you want, I could tell you all the general events that will happen. My skeleton is more than done. It's the muscles, the flesh, the veins and arteries, the organs and all that anatomy that is lacking in my story. Thus, the stalemate.
Still, thank you, everyone, for sticking by me despite all these nonsense. I am not going to lie. I dread the day that I will announce to you guys that I will update irregularly. That day isn't too far off. If you are wondering why, it's really because worklife takes out a lot of my time than I would have thought. I know, a lousy excuse. Isn't that the reason why I'm still persevering till today, when I could've thrown the towel and ended it at "I Want To Be A Turk"?
I have this choice right now. I could end at the end of FF7 events and go "They lived happily ever after". But this is NOT the ending I want. Nowhere near. I WANT to see the story in its full glory. So that I can think back and go "Yeah, the journey really sucked in the middle, but I am glad that I stuck through it, irregular or not." So, I shall henceforth continue to remain responsible... even if I have to be irresponsible in my writing schedule... (The paradox is making my head hurt.)
All I ask for, is some divine inspiration so that I can meat up the skeleton. Perhaps I should take a month break again to China. That might do wonders for my writing.
But of course, it won't happen. Like I said in my chapter before, things may not happen the way we want. That's life, sometimes.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
New Word (7): Vestige
ves·tige
/ˈvestij/
Noun
|
Or in other words, remnants. I saw this in a text with the phrase "vestige of a Portugese fort".
Haven't been using the new words that I've learnt though. Words like divulse, ephemeral and insuperable... haven't found the opportunity to use them without something like some prude.
In other news, uploading of chapters are back to normal, so see you with a new chapter in two weeks' time!
In other news, uploading of chapters are back to normal, so see you with a new chapter in two weeks' time!
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Book Review (6): Throne of Glass
You might remember that I've mentioned this some time ago. I'm done with the book shortly after that post, but it took me a while to get the review out. But I've done it, and here it is :)
Throne of Glass
Sarah J. Maas
Story Sypnosis (in my own words): Celaena Sardothien, legendary assassin who suffered a year in captivity, was promised freedom upon some conditions. She was to participate in a series of competitions against other fighters and emerge champion. Failure to do so will mean sure death. Celaena obviously accepts, and soon found many twists in what seemed like an innocent tournament.
I did take a long time to get past the first 4 chapters (though that wasn't the story's fault, but my own work priorities). But one fine Saturday, I sat down, I read, and I didn't stop till I was done on Sunday morning... Okay, so I cheated, I slept a bit before I finished it on Sunday morning, but that's not important.
Overall, this book has gotten me on my toes and I'm eagerly waiting for the sequel to be out this fall (Yes, there will be a sequel!!) Let's get started!
1. Setting
The author spent about five chapters setting the story, which is really nice and stable. Five chapters to set the stage. The world is a medieval-like realm with castles and towns. The era was in oppression; a man who conquered the main city and declared himself King. Magic was banned, its books were burned and its people killed.
Yup, that's the underlying theme there. Oppression.
2. Costumes
I love the costumes. Nothing more I can say. Okay, so this has absolutely nothing to do with writing, but I just love the costumes. The description was lovely, though not as graphic as Memoirs of a Geisha (did you see the way the author describes the kimono? Absolutely love it.)
3. Celaena as a protagonist
I mentioned before that Eona was an interesting character, but I meant it in a negative way more than positive. Now, Celaena Sardothien is, in my opinion, a wonderful character. She is arrogant, cunning and witty, but also nice to the people that she likes. She also knows that she is beautiful, and often tries to use it to her advantage.
There is just something so attractive about her. To outsiders, she's elusive and mysterious. No one knows what the greatest assassin might do next. However, when the author writes in the perspective of Celaena again, you'll be surprised to find how normal she actually is. Also, it's so interesting to see her think throughout the book the thousand and one ways to assassinate people around her, albeit done too frequently.
In a way, she is like Christian Grey. Same multifaceted personality, but different. Different in the fact that Christian Grey's multicoloured personality backfires on him because he became very flat. For Celaena, the different parts of her personality, however extreme they may be, they made sense given the circumstances of her background.
4. Love Triangles
Argh. I hate this. I've said it again and again, I am so sick of love triangles. It's quite typical - Girl falls in love with Boy A first, but then there's Boy B. Plus, you can tell that eventually where the love triangle would result.
For some reason, even though I dislike love triangles, I'm super darn bad at guessing the result. I always brace myself for a possible twist. Never happened.
5. Plot
I appreciate the fact that the story has a pretty straightforward plot. There were some underlying subplots and foreshadowing, but nothing confusing. I need to take notes from these focused authors!!
Being a first part of a series, the book took some time to lay out its setting. However, what stood out for me was that the main plot was introduced by the end of Chapter 2. It's pretty risky to just throw out the main plot so early. You might lose the flavour and most authors prefer to roll out the story little by little. Well, it worked for me. I immediately got to know what the story is going to be about and that determines whether I'm going to like it or not.
Another author who did that was Maria V. Snyder. The initial plot was out by the end of Chapter 1, of which at the end of it I thought, "Sounds cool, let's go!" Some stories that dragged a little too long for my liking was Fifty Shades of Grey (review here) and "The Fire Within" by Chris D. Lacey. Alright, I'm about to be stoned because I know many people loved it. I've only read the first book and so far, meh. I am not giving up on the series though. So I'll try again!
Maybe I'm just a superficial reader who can't wait for the plot to thicken. Hmph.
---
Rating: Love It
I loved the book, I'm looking forward to the sequel. Need I say anymore?
Pictures taken from:
Book Cover
Disclaimer: Despite the official term, the above book review is not a wholesome and fully critical one. The book is merely reviewed and reflected on based on story writing skills and other literary elements.
Throne of Glass
Sarah J. Maas
Story Sypnosis (in my own words): Celaena Sardothien, legendary assassin who suffered a year in captivity, was promised freedom upon some conditions. She was to participate in a series of competitions against other fighters and emerge champion. Failure to do so will mean sure death. Celaena obviously accepts, and soon found many twists in what seemed like an innocent tournament.
-----
Let me get this straight - I love this book!I did take a long time to get past the first 4 chapters (though that wasn't the story's fault, but my own work priorities). But one fine Saturday, I sat down, I read, and I didn't stop till I was done on Sunday morning... Okay, so I cheated, I slept a bit before I finished it on Sunday morning, but that's not important.
Overall, this book has gotten me on my toes and I'm eagerly waiting for the sequel to be out this fall (Yes, there will be a sequel!!) Let's get started!
1. Setting
The author spent about five chapters setting the story, which is really nice and stable. Five chapters to set the stage. The world is a medieval-like realm with castles and towns. The era was in oppression; a man who conquered the main city and declared himself King. Magic was banned, its books were burned and its people killed.
Yup, that's the underlying theme there. Oppression.
2. Costumes
I love the costumes. Nothing more I can say. Okay, so this has absolutely nothing to do with writing, but I just love the costumes. The description was lovely, though not as graphic as Memoirs of a Geisha (did you see the way the author describes the kimono? Absolutely love it.)
3. Celaena as a protagonist
I mentioned before that Eona was an interesting character, but I meant it in a negative way more than positive. Now, Celaena Sardothien is, in my opinion, a wonderful character. She is arrogant, cunning and witty, but also nice to the people that she likes. She also knows that she is beautiful, and often tries to use it to her advantage.
There is just something so attractive about her. To outsiders, she's elusive and mysterious. No one knows what the greatest assassin might do next. However, when the author writes in the perspective of Celaena again, you'll be surprised to find how normal she actually is. Also, it's so interesting to see her think throughout the book the thousand and one ways to assassinate people around her, albeit done too frequently.
In a way, she is like Christian Grey. Same multifaceted personality, but different. Different in the fact that Christian Grey's multicoloured personality backfires on him because he became very flat. For Celaena, the different parts of her personality, however extreme they may be, they made sense given the circumstances of her background.
4. Love Triangles
Argh. I hate this. I've said it again and again, I am so sick of love triangles. It's quite typical - Girl falls in love with Boy A first, but then there's Boy B. Plus, you can tell that eventually where the love triangle would result.
For some reason, even though I dislike love triangles, I'm super darn bad at guessing the result. I always brace myself for a possible twist. Never happened.
5. Plot
I appreciate the fact that the story has a pretty straightforward plot. There were some underlying subplots and foreshadowing, but nothing confusing. I need to take notes from these focused authors!!
Being a first part of a series, the book took some time to lay out its setting. However, what stood out for me was that the main plot was introduced by the end of Chapter 2. It's pretty risky to just throw out the main plot so early. You might lose the flavour and most authors prefer to roll out the story little by little. Well, it worked for me. I immediately got to know what the story is going to be about and that determines whether I'm going to like it or not.
Another author who did that was Maria V. Snyder. The initial plot was out by the end of Chapter 1, of which at the end of it I thought, "Sounds cool, let's go!" Some stories that dragged a little too long for my liking was Fifty Shades of Grey (review here) and "The Fire Within" by Chris D. Lacey. Alright, I'm about to be stoned because I know many people loved it. I've only read the first book and so far, meh. I am not giving up on the series though. So I'll try again!
Maybe I'm just a superficial reader who can't wait for the plot to thicken. Hmph.
---
Rating: Love It
I loved the book, I'm looking forward to the sequel. Need I say anymore?
Pictures taken from:
Book Cover
Disclaimer: Despite the official term, the above book review is not a wholesome and fully critical one. The book is merely reviewed and reflected on based on story writing skills and other literary elements.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
My biggest apologies
Dear readers,
Most likely, I will be posting Chapter 29 next weekend instead. The chapter is done, to be honest. However, I did not feel secure about how the chapter was written. I need more time to work on it and be assured that it is my best (and that the horrible detailing will not bite me in the loophole-butt in the future).
My regular schedule will resume shortly after, which means:
Chapter 29 will be posted on 22 June 2013
Chapter 30 will be posted on 29 June 2013 (the immediate week after)
Thank you for your understanding. As I'm typing this, I'm wondering whether my readers would stop by this blog when they notice that this week's chapter is not up... If not, this post will be rendered useless *cries*
Most likely, I will be posting Chapter 29 next weekend instead. The chapter is done, to be honest. However, I did not feel secure about how the chapter was written. I need more time to work on it and be assured that it is my best (and that the horrible detailing will not bite me in the loophole-butt in the future).
My regular schedule will resume shortly after, which means:
Chapter 29 will be posted on 22 June 2013
Chapter 30 will be posted on 29 June 2013 (the immediate week after)
Thank you for your understanding. As I'm typing this, I'm wondering whether my readers would stop by this blog when they notice that this week's chapter is not up... If not, this post will be rendered useless *cries*
Friday, June 14, 2013
New Word (6): Insuperable
It has been a while since I looked for new words. I caught this word while I was peeking at my friend's book: The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis.
(Google Search, because I'm too lazy to find a more credible, established source.)
Let's see if I can use this word at all. It shouldn't be a big problem.
in·su·per·a·ble
/inˈso͞op(É™)rÉ™bÉ™l/
Adjective
| |
Synonyms
|
(Google Search, because I'm too lazy to find a more credible, established source.)
Let's see if I can use this word at all. It shouldn't be a big problem.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
The general plot
If some of you are wondering, when is this story going to end, if it ever ends... Here's the answer for you... it will NEVER!!!
Nah, just being lame right now.
But I thought I'll put in a mid-week entry to try and warm up my mind to write Chapter 29 (Yup, it's almost done! One more scene to finish...)
The entire 'saga' of "I Want To Be A Turk!" is divided into three parts.
Part 1: The finding of Meia and the events of Before Crisis and Crisis Core. As you have already read, the story ends at the end of Before Crisis and it leads on to the beginning of Final Fantasy VII.
Part 2: The story of Meia and the exiled Turks during the events of Final Fantasy VII. Here, the main proponents are still AVALANCHE and the Shinra Turks since they are the driving force behind the canon storyline. Meia and the exiled Turks actually take a backseat, but everything that they do is a build-up to Part 3.
(P.S: If my story is not THAT clear enough, we are currently in Part 2.)
Part 3: The last part of this entire journey would begin at the end of Final Fantasy VII, and it will last... for quite some time. Unfortunately, I will not reveal much, but you can be sure that Meia and (some of) the others will be back in full force again.
Obviously, Part 1 is the one labelled "I Want To Be A Turk!" and Part 2 and 3 will be under "Days of Exile". I won't torture my readers on a wild goosechase with a new sequel!
Now that we got your heads a little clearer, let's get back with the programme and down to business. I hope that I can get the chapter out by this weekend, which gives me about three to four more days to work it. Now it's up to my brain to crank its gears and forget all about my other duties (which are actually more important... opps.)
Nah, just being lame right now.
But I thought I'll put in a mid-week entry to try and warm up my mind to write Chapter 29 (Yup, it's almost done! One more scene to finish...)
The entire 'saga' of "I Want To Be A Turk!" is divided into three parts.
Part 1: The finding of Meia and the events of Before Crisis and Crisis Core. As you have already read, the story ends at the end of Before Crisis and it leads on to the beginning of Final Fantasy VII.
Part 2: The story of Meia and the exiled Turks during the events of Final Fantasy VII. Here, the main proponents are still AVALANCHE and the Shinra Turks since they are the driving force behind the canon storyline. Meia and the exiled Turks actually take a backseat, but everything that they do is a build-up to Part 3.
(P.S: If my story is not THAT clear enough, we are currently in Part 2.)
Part 3: The last part of this entire journey would begin at the end of Final Fantasy VII, and it will last... for quite some time. Unfortunately, I will not reveal much, but you can be sure that Meia and (some of) the others will be back in full force again.
Obviously, Part 1 is the one labelled "I Want To Be A Turk!" and Part 2 and 3 will be under "Days of Exile". I won't torture my readers on a wild goosechase with a new sequel!
Now that we got your heads a little clearer, let's get back with the programme and down to business. I hope that I can get the chapter out by this weekend, which gives me about three to four more days to work it. Now it's up to my brain to crank its gears and forget all about my other duties (which are actually more important... opps.)
Monday, June 3, 2013
Days of Exile: Chapter 28
Ah! My duties! In a whirl of busy-ness, I've forgotten to upload my latest chapter of "Days of Exile"!!
Unfortunately, that is also my last chapter that is completed. Usually, I am writing five chapters ahead of my uploaded one, but the last few months I had a massive mental block and the chapters aren't churning out as smoothly as I'd like. Hopefully I can get back on track in the next few weeks, but I'm not feeling confident about it.
Well, well, well... Chapter 28 already. Despite proofreading it a few times, I found it unsatisfactory, so there were last minute changes here and there. Okay, more like here and there and everywhere. I tried to make the conversation sound more natural by reading it out and dramatising it. Yeah, that's how I proofread.
I had intended the return of Meia and her discovery to be much further apart, but I didn't have enough scenes to fill up another chapter. Contrary to 'popular' belief, my scenes are not fillers, even if they look like fillers now :P Eventually I hope that everything will unfold and piece together perfectly.
I received a wonderful review from Cocofury, actually. I was scared initially (I'm quite bad with feedback). However, she did it in so objectively and non-condescendingly. Totally appreciate that. And, I'm also grateful to those who took time to review!
Mai: Great to know that you enjoy "I Want To Be A Turk!" Hope you catch up to Chapter 28 soon! :P
Takara: Thank you for your faithful comment, as always!
Jefri: In fandom, Reno is portrayed as a playboy. Some fictitious details cannot be left out :P
Dontgotaclue88: Hmm... We'll see. :)
Kadajclone: Really flattered that you think so! Achievement unlocked!
See you soon!
Unfortunately, that is also my last chapter that is completed. Usually, I am writing five chapters ahead of my uploaded one, but the last few months I had a massive mental block and the chapters aren't churning out as smoothly as I'd like. Hopefully I can get back on track in the next few weeks, but I'm not feeling confident about it.
Well, well, well... Chapter 28 already. Despite proofreading it a few times, I found it unsatisfactory, so there were last minute changes here and there. Okay, more like here and there and everywhere. I tried to make the conversation sound more natural by reading it out and dramatising it. Yeah, that's how I proofread.
I had intended the return of Meia and her discovery to be much further apart, but I didn't have enough scenes to fill up another chapter. Contrary to 'popular' belief, my scenes are not fillers, even if they look like fillers now :P Eventually I hope that everything will unfold and piece together perfectly.
I received a wonderful review from Cocofury, actually. I was scared initially (I'm quite bad with feedback). However, she did it in so objectively and non-condescendingly. Totally appreciate that. And, I'm also grateful to those who took time to review!
Mai: Great to know that you enjoy "I Want To Be A Turk!" Hope you catch up to Chapter 28 soon! :P
Takara: Thank you for your faithful comment, as always!
Jefri: In fandom, Reno is portrayed as a playboy. Some fictitious details cannot be left out :P
Dontgotaclue88: Hmm... We'll see. :)
Kadajclone: Really flattered that you think so! Achievement unlocked!
See you soon!
Sunday, May 12, 2013
A short update
In case you guys are wondering, I am sick.
Down with a flu since Wednesday, and I'm recovering as slowly as the twelve days of Christmas (whatever THAT means).
If you're wondering, Yay, that means she gets to find time to write! You're so, so, so wrong :( I've been sleeping in and out of the last four days. I only remember waking up to eat, take medicine and knock out for another few hours.
Now that my medicine's is finished, I believe I can start writing with what little time I have. I've not recovered though, boo :(
I have been updating my chapters, which made me wonder... where is everyone?? I haven't heard a single peep from my readers for a long time. Then again, I've been quiet on fanfiction too. I haven't read anything in a long time. Which goes to show that karma is a nasty... thing.
Apart from that, I've been stuffing my anime-deprived brain with anime. So yeah, apart from waking up to eat and take medicine, I HAVE been watching anime. I admit.
So... If anyone else is there, just remember that I'm still around... you know?
Down with a flu since Wednesday, and I'm recovering as slowly as the twelve days of Christmas (whatever THAT means).
If you're wondering, Yay, that means she gets to find time to write! You're so, so, so wrong :( I've been sleeping in and out of the last four days. I only remember waking up to eat, take medicine and knock out for another few hours.
Now that my medicine's is finished, I believe I can start writing with what little time I have. I've not recovered though, boo :(
I have been updating my chapters, which made me wonder... where is everyone?? I haven't heard a single peep from my readers for a long time. Then again, I've been quiet on fanfiction too. I haven't read anything in a long time. Which goes to show that karma is a nasty... thing.
Apart from that, I've been stuffing my anime-deprived brain with anime. So yeah, apart from waking up to eat and take medicine, I HAVE been watching anime. I admit.
So... If anyone else is there, just remember that I'm still around... you know?
Saturday, April 27, 2013
A remake for FInal Fantasy VII
Well, just when I was thinking to myself that I had some free time, I ended up being swamped by work AND being addicted to an anime (I'll talk about that another time.)
This post is about my deepest gaming desire.
Well, that and much more, but having a FF7 remake is indeed one of my biggest dreams. I remembered that when the Playstation 3 was first released, everyone was 'ooh' and 'aah'-ing, but I wasn't too swayed. Those were the days when my gaming experience is limited to Final Fantasy. (It still is, but at least I have more knowledge in other games!)
Then, I boldly made the statement: "If they remake FF7 on the PS3, I'll buy it in an instant!" And well, I guess you've guessed that I obviously do not have a PS3. Nevertheless, my declaration still stands. I'll buy the console that supports the glorious, legendary remake... if they ever get down to it.
Years ago, SquareEnix released the all-too-tantalising FF7 opening just to show us the awesome graphics that PS3 supports. Many of us know the video, but I'm just going to show it anyway.
I mean, look at that! How much epic-ness is that? Of course many people saw this in the epilogue of Crisis Core, which shows the same quality, but wouldn't you want to see the rest of FF7 being shown in HD!!?!?!
I know I do, I'm positively dying for the day to come.
But sadly, we all know the answer in our hearts. We fight it, we ignore it, we try to justify it, but it's clear as day that SquareEnix will not remake this game anytime so soon. Here are some of my reasons why they are holding back their horses:
1. Focusing on other games
This should be a no brainer for Final Fantasy fans. Square is currently busy with many projects. Some of which they are also kinda delayed in releasing. I'm talking about Final Fantasy 13 Versus. It was hyped up way too early because now it seems like they are shirking responsibility. Of course, I know it's because it's the fifth and last game in the Fabula Nova Crystallis compilation (similar to the FF7 compilation, just that the world is set in FF13). So for sure Versus will not be out till the preceding four titles are released.
EDIT (27/1/2014): So now FF13 Versus will become FF15. Yay. As long as it's not that horrible Cocoon place.
Back to the main point. FF7 remake won't even be considered because of the fact that there are simply too many titles to work on now. Personally, I can relate to this. Last year, one of my fics "Their Memories of Fukinara High", ended prematurely. I commented then that I might return to it, but as I delve deeper into the FF7 fandom, I find that it's hard for me to go back to SDK too. Partly because of the research I got to do again and because my pool of readers are gone already.
The supporters of FF7 remake will not be a dying race (yet), that's for sure. But the research will take Square quite some time, which brings me to my next point.
2. Different team of developers
FF7 was made in 1997. It's going to be close to 20 years (in 4 years' time). Many changes have been made to the company. The most famous one that we know of is Nobuo Uematsu leaving Square. He's not the only one. Many of the original team are no longer in Square. If we want a remake, what is better than reuniting all the heroes to work together? However, things aren't as easy as it sounds. The amount of liasion, the costs, the old dirty politics (if there were any) dug up again...
Like I said, it's really hard. It's probably easier to find a new team of artists and developers to do the remake, but would the fans appreciate it? I know for sure that if the FF7 remake music is not done by Nobuo Uematsu, I would not be as excited. Nobuo Uematsu is a non-negotiable for me - He MUST compose the music, if not co-arrange or direct. But that's just me.
3. System Requirement
Even though Final Fantasy 13 looks freaking awesome on a PS3, I can tell that the system requirements for a FF7 equivalent is going to be hard. We ARE assuming that in the FF7 remake, the graphics would be as darn HD as in FF13, right?
If that were the case, imagine. The entire Midgar, with every nut and bolt visible to the eye. The world map, all in your control to explore, changes the scenery with every step that you take. Even the chocobo has to be animated carefully and let's not forget the other nitty gritty details like summoning summons and falling snow in Icicle Inn.
Before I lose you in your imaginative ecstasy, can you imagine the amount of power needed to support such a game? Square is unable to deliver it adequately (I believe they can and have the technology to do it, but they choose not to yet). That is why FF13 is so linear in storyline, as compared to FF7 to 9.
4. Backup plan
*insert Keanu conspiracy meme here*
Well, in this meme they said in case SquareEnix ran out of ideas for a game, but I see it more as a backup plan in case none of their works are successful anymore and they are plunging towards bankruptcy.
The legend of how Final Fantasy first began was that Square released "Final Fantasy" as their last-chance in the gaming industry. Seeing how increasingly unpopular some titles are nowadays, maybe they are really keeping the remake as a last-attempt before it really becomes their 'final fantasy'.
Perhaps I should write a post on the things that I want to see on the remake :3
So, what do you think? Do you think there should be a remake?
Special thanks to:
oldivai for the youtube video
This post is about my deepest gaming desire.
Well, that and much more, but having a FF7 remake is indeed one of my biggest dreams. I remembered that when the Playstation 3 was first released, everyone was 'ooh' and 'aah'-ing, but I wasn't too swayed. Those were the days when my gaming experience is limited to Final Fantasy. (It still is, but at least I have more knowledge in other games!)
Then, I boldly made the statement: "If they remake FF7 on the PS3, I'll buy it in an instant!" And well, I guess you've guessed that I obviously do not have a PS3. Nevertheless, my declaration still stands. I'll buy the console that supports the glorious, legendary remake... if they ever get down to it.
Years ago, SquareEnix released the all-too-tantalising FF7 opening just to show us the awesome graphics that PS3 supports. Many of us know the video, but I'm just going to show it anyway.
I mean, look at that! How much epic-ness is that? Of course many people saw this in the epilogue of Crisis Core, which shows the same quality, but wouldn't you want to see the rest of FF7 being shown in HD!!?!?!
I know I do, I'm positively dying for the day to come.
But sadly, we all know the answer in our hearts. We fight it, we ignore it, we try to justify it, but it's clear as day that SquareEnix will not remake this game anytime so soon. Here are some of my reasons why they are holding back their horses:
1. Focusing on other games
This should be a no brainer for Final Fantasy fans. Square is currently busy with many projects. Some of which they are also kinda delayed in releasing. I'm talking about Final Fantasy 13 Versus. It was hyped up way too early because now it seems like they are shirking responsibility. Of course, I know it's because it's the fifth and last game in the Fabula Nova Crystallis compilation (similar to the FF7 compilation, just that the world is set in FF13). So for sure Versus will not be out till the preceding four titles are released.
EDIT (27/1/2014): So now FF13 Versus will become FF15. Yay. As long as it's not that horrible Cocoon place.
Back to the main point. FF7 remake won't even be considered because of the fact that there are simply too many titles to work on now. Personally, I can relate to this. Last year, one of my fics "Their Memories of Fukinara High", ended prematurely. I commented then that I might return to it, but as I delve deeper into the FF7 fandom, I find that it's hard for me to go back to SDK too. Partly because of the research I got to do again and because my pool of readers are gone already.
The supporters of FF7 remake will not be a dying race (yet), that's for sure. But the research will take Square quite some time, which brings me to my next point.
2. Different team of developers
FF7 was made in 1997. It's going to be close to 20 years (in 4 years' time). Many changes have been made to the company. The most famous one that we know of is Nobuo Uematsu leaving Square. He's not the only one. Many of the original team are no longer in Square. If we want a remake, what is better than reuniting all the heroes to work together? However, things aren't as easy as it sounds. The amount of liasion, the costs, the old dirty politics (if there were any) dug up again...
Like I said, it's really hard. It's probably easier to find a new team of artists and developers to do the remake, but would the fans appreciate it? I know for sure that if the FF7 remake music is not done by Nobuo Uematsu, I would not be as excited. Nobuo Uematsu is a non-negotiable for me - He MUST compose the music, if not co-arrange or direct. But that's just me.
3. System Requirement
Even though Final Fantasy 13 looks freaking awesome on a PS3, I can tell that the system requirements for a FF7 equivalent is going to be hard. We ARE assuming that in the FF7 remake, the graphics would be as darn HD as in FF13, right?
If that were the case, imagine. The entire Midgar, with every nut and bolt visible to the eye. The world map, all in your control to explore, changes the scenery with every step that you take. Even the chocobo has to be animated carefully and let's not forget the other nitty gritty details like summoning summons and falling snow in Icicle Inn.
Before I lose you in your imaginative ecstasy, can you imagine the amount of power needed to support such a game? Square is unable to deliver it adequately (I believe they can and have the technology to do it, but they choose not to yet). That is why FF13 is so linear in storyline, as compared to FF7 to 9.
4. Backup plan
*insert Keanu conspiracy meme here*
Well, in this meme they said in case SquareEnix ran out of ideas for a game, but I see it more as a backup plan in case none of their works are successful anymore and they are plunging towards bankruptcy.
The legend of how Final Fantasy first began was that Square released "Final Fantasy" as their last-chance in the gaming industry. Seeing how increasingly unpopular some titles are nowadays, maybe they are really keeping the remake as a last-attempt before it really becomes their 'final fantasy'.
Perhaps I should write a post on the things that I want to see on the remake :3
So, what do you think? Do you think there should be a remake?
Special thanks to:
oldivai for the youtube video
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Commitment and Reviews
Recently, I received a review to one of my old fics. It was nice to see some old names from the other fandom. Which brought me back to my own reflections again.
You see, before I started "I Want To Be A Turk!", I kinda wrote a semi-ending for my previous fic and I moved on. I naively thought then that I could finish "I Want To Be A Turk" in 6 months and then go back.
How foolish I was.
I admit, even now I feel the dread of needing to complete Days of Exile. But reading the review from my old readers renewed my commitment to update and complete Days of Exile.
So yeah. That's that. A short but genuine post about how I've been feeling. Even if I no longer feel the passion to write about Days of Exile (which really isn't the case, I promise!), I will finish the story because of my commitment. The day I fail to do so... I'm sure I'll at least apologise here on this blog before I go. If that doesn't happen, then you should figure out that some divine intervention prevented me from doing so, if you know what I mean! Of course, I really need support and encouragement from everyone once in a while. You know that you guys are really important to me, right?
Okay, on to another topic. Guys? When you want to give some suggestions to the author, be careful of how you phrase your words. I feel that a reviewer should never make his suggestions sound to the author as if he is commanding the author to take his suggestions. I'm speaking as a reviewer myself. At the very least, be polite and neutral about it so you don't seem pushy. I mean, dear reviewers, please don't use absolutes like "I want the story to continue this way." Sensitive authors (like myself :P) could be easily offended and you probably won't know why.
So I usually 'protect' myself by adding disclaimers like "This is just a suggestion", or "I'm just saying these things but you know your story best." Sometimes, I also assure the author that no matter the outcome, I would continue reading his/her story. And I do, even when the story becomes an atrocity (which hardly happens).
Now, speaking as an amateur author, I'm not too sure if other authors feel this way. Authors love comments, reviews and suggestions, but it's not cool when you get the vibe from your readers that they won't support you if you write the story this way. 'Nuff said.
Now, if you were to excuse me, I'll go write some stuff on Days of Exile.
Have a good week ahead!
You see, before I started "I Want To Be A Turk!", I kinda wrote a semi-ending for my previous fic and I moved on. I naively thought then that I could finish "I Want To Be A Turk" in 6 months and then go back.
How foolish I was.
I admit, even now I feel the dread of needing to complete Days of Exile. But reading the review from my old readers renewed my commitment to update and complete Days of Exile.
So yeah. That's that. A short but genuine post about how I've been feeling. Even if I no longer feel the passion to write about Days of Exile (which really isn't the case, I promise!), I will finish the story because of my commitment. The day I fail to do so... I'm sure I'll at least apologise here on this blog before I go. If that doesn't happen, then you should figure out that some divine intervention prevented me from doing so, if you know what I mean! Of course, I really need support and encouragement from everyone once in a while. You know that you guys are really important to me, right?
Okay, on to another topic. Guys? When you want to give some suggestions to the author, be careful of how you phrase your words. I feel that a reviewer should never make his suggestions sound to the author as if he is commanding the author to take his suggestions. I'm speaking as a reviewer myself. At the very least, be polite and neutral about it so you don't seem pushy. I mean, dear reviewers, please don't use absolutes like "I want the story to continue this way." Sensitive authors (like myself :P) could be easily offended and you probably won't know why.
So I usually 'protect' myself by adding disclaimers like "This is just a suggestion", or "I'm just saying these things but you know your story best." Sometimes, I also assure the author that no matter the outcome, I would continue reading his/her story. And I do, even when the story becomes an atrocity (which hardly happens).
Now, speaking as an amateur author, I'm not too sure if other authors feel this way. Authors love comments, reviews and suggestions, but it's not cool when you get the vibe from your readers that they won't support you if you write the story this way. 'Nuff said.
Now, if you were to excuse me, I'll go write some stuff on Days of Exile.
Have a good week ahead!
Monday, April 8, 2013
Final Fantasy 7 videos
Despite the epic sounding title, I'm only referring to MAD videos.
To those who do not know the meaning of MAD videos, they are fan made videos on certain games/anime. Unlike AMVs where you don't need a storyline, most MAD videos are parodies, if not mashups of different fandoms.
Sounds awesome, right?
Anyway, today I thought I would like to share some of my favourite MAD videos from Final Fantasy VII. These MAD videos are actually redrawn to fit into anime openings and endings. Yes, you get to see your beloved FF7 characters prancing in an opening theme of an anime. Some of the anime is not very popular, so I'll include the original opening video for your comparison. After watching this, you must admit. They are done really well.
Without further ado, let's begin!
1. Ouran High School Host Club/Final Fantasy VII
Many anime watchers would know this anime. There are many versions, but this one is the one that I like. Feel free to compare them. That's why they are embedded here. In case the video doesn't work, you can always find them on Youtube.
This is the original video:
This is the MAD video:
2. Baccano/Final Fantasy VII
This video is the one that got me started on finding all the MAD videos on FF7. I never watched the anime "Baccano", but I was so impressed with how the creator seamlessly placed everyone in FF7 into this anime opening. So I watched the anime in the end and it was quite enjoyable.
I would want to see this MAD video with One Piece characters. That would be epic :D
This is the original opening (sorry for the scary thumbnail!):
Unfortunately, I can't find the MAD video (because the video is unavailable in my country now). Perhaps you guys have better luck. Just search anything with "Baccano" and "Final Fantasy 7" and you might find it ^^
3. Ghost in the Shell/Final Fantasy VII
We save the best for the last. These last two MAD videos are my favourites, for two reasons. One, again the characters fit the opening video well. Two, the context of FF7 fits the opening songs so. darn. well. You'll know what I mean.
This particular MAD video gave me chills, because of the accuracy of the parallels drawn between Ghost in the Shell and Final Fantasy VII.
Original Video:
MAD Video:
4. Cowboy Bebop/Final Fantasy VII
To those who didn't have the privilege to watch Cowboy Bebop, it is an anime packed full of badass-ness. This anime practically reeks badass and coolness, just retains a small hint of humour. For such a rugged looking opening, the MAD video certainly lived up to its name.
Original video:
Behold! The MAD video... Turks Bebop!!! (*cue for Reno fans to scream*)
And that's it, my little obsession with MAD videos. Go watch them on Youtube, I'm sure there's something for everyone! If you know the anime Durarara, you'll be happy to know that there are hundreds of MAD video on their ending song, "Trust Me". It's a really easy video to edit, I suppose.
Now, if you would excuse me, I wanna go find some One Piece MAD videos.
To those who do not know the meaning of MAD videos, they are fan made videos on certain games/anime. Unlike AMVs where you don't need a storyline, most MAD videos are parodies, if not mashups of different fandoms.
Sounds awesome, right?
Anyway, today I thought I would like to share some of my favourite MAD videos from Final Fantasy VII. These MAD videos are actually redrawn to fit into anime openings and endings. Yes, you get to see your beloved FF7 characters prancing in an opening theme of an anime. Some of the anime is not very popular, so I'll include the original opening video for your comparison. After watching this, you must admit. They are done really well.
Without further ado, let's begin!
1. Ouran High School Host Club/Final Fantasy VII
Many anime watchers would know this anime. There are many versions, but this one is the one that I like. Feel free to compare them. That's why they are embedded here. In case the video doesn't work, you can always find them on Youtube.
This is the original video:
This is the MAD video:
2. Baccano/Final Fantasy VII
This video is the one that got me started on finding all the MAD videos on FF7. I never watched the anime "Baccano", but I was so impressed with how the creator seamlessly placed everyone in FF7 into this anime opening. So I watched the anime in the end and it was quite enjoyable.
I would want to see this MAD video with One Piece characters. That would be epic :D
This is the original opening (sorry for the scary thumbnail!):
Unfortunately, I can't find the MAD video (because the video is unavailable in my country now). Perhaps you guys have better luck. Just search anything with "Baccano" and "Final Fantasy 7" and you might find it ^^
3. Ghost in the Shell/Final Fantasy VII
We save the best for the last. These last two MAD videos are my favourites, for two reasons. One, again the characters fit the opening video well. Two, the context of FF7 fits the opening songs so. darn. well. You'll know what I mean.
This particular MAD video gave me chills, because of the accuracy of the parallels drawn between Ghost in the Shell and Final Fantasy VII.
Original Video:
MAD Video:
4. Cowboy Bebop/Final Fantasy VII
To those who didn't have the privilege to watch Cowboy Bebop, it is an anime packed full of badass-ness. This anime practically reeks badass and coolness, just retains a small hint of humour. For such a rugged looking opening, the MAD video certainly lived up to its name.
Original video:
Behold! The MAD video... Turks Bebop!!! (*cue for Reno fans to scream*)
And that's it, my little obsession with MAD videos. Go watch them on Youtube, I'm sure there's something for everyone! If you know the anime Durarara, you'll be happy to know that there are hundreds of MAD video on their ending song, "Trust Me". It's a really easy video to edit, I suppose.
Now, if you would excuse me, I wanna go find some One Piece MAD videos.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Oh my! The mess!
The intention of quoting "Fifty Shades" was completely unintentional.
I've been doing changes to my labels on the side, but I realised that perhaps most of my posts are not properly labelled. So it's time for me to start reorganising my blog labels. Also, it has been a to-do for me to create a page on this blog stating basic navigation and label guide for the newbies.
Maybe I should begin. Like, pronto.
So I apologise for any inconvenience during this time of reorganisation!
I've been doing changes to my labels on the side, but I realised that perhaps most of my posts are not properly labelled. So it's time for me to start reorganising my blog labels. Also, it has been a to-do for me to create a page on this blog stating basic navigation and label guide for the newbies.
Maybe I should begin. Like, pronto.
So I apologise for any inconvenience during this time of reorganisation!
Friday, March 22, 2013
Un-motivated
Argh!
I have been 'enjoying' my term break (that lasts for a week) but instead of devoting myself to writing.. I've been drowning myself in work! Have been to school since Monday, working till I can't see the sun (okay, so I'm exaggerating here). Today I told myself that I should stop going to school and enjoy my holidays, but I have to bring my work home. And 3 hours since I woke up, I've not started on any work at all.
Maybe I should've gone back to school instead of bringing work home, but wouldn't that be such a pathetic thing to do, that I go back everyday in my holidays? :(
It doesn't help that I'm having such a BIG mental block in my writing. The chapter that I'm writing is crawling at such a snail's pace that I doubt I'll ever complete it at all.
You know, recently one of my friends (who didn't read my stories) peeked at my fanfiction profile and commented to me, "Isn't your story a little too long?"
That, I agree. 100,000 words is seriously no joke. Let us not forget the 60 something chapters in "I Want To Be A Turk!" I have, in all honesty, considered many alternatives to the ending of Days of Exile. Of course, I shan't be too hasty and declare that the ending is confirmed. I used to be really sure that this is what I want, but now, I'm not so confident.
I desire to venture into new grounds, because I'm getting too comfortable in my writing, and I'm also beginning to feel the strains of my multiple plot bunnies threatening loopholes whenever I think of something new in Days of Exile. I want to finish this story, I still do. But if I think that my quality's going to drop, I may take preventive measures.
I'm really rather burdened by this. No wonder many authors turned tail and fled from their budding stories. I don't want to end up like "Their Memories of Fukinara High" and run away before I could even finish it.
Well, perhaps I should get back to my reality and do my work first. :(
I have been 'enjoying' my term break (that lasts for a week) but instead of devoting myself to writing.. I've been drowning myself in work! Have been to school since Monday, working till I can't see the sun (okay, so I'm exaggerating here). Today I told myself that I should stop going to school and enjoy my holidays, but I have to bring my work home. And 3 hours since I woke up, I've not started on any work at all.
Maybe I should've gone back to school instead of bringing work home, but wouldn't that be such a pathetic thing to do, that I go back everyday in my holidays? :(
It doesn't help that I'm having such a BIG mental block in my writing. The chapter that I'm writing is crawling at such a snail's pace that I doubt I'll ever complete it at all.
You know, recently one of my friends (who didn't read my stories) peeked at my fanfiction profile and commented to me, "Isn't your story a little too long?"
That, I agree. 100,000 words is seriously no joke. Let us not forget the 60 something chapters in "I Want To Be A Turk!" I have, in all honesty, considered many alternatives to the ending of Days of Exile. Of course, I shan't be too hasty and declare that the ending is confirmed. I used to be really sure that this is what I want, but now, I'm not so confident.
I desire to venture into new grounds, because I'm getting too comfortable in my writing, and I'm also beginning to feel the strains of my multiple plot bunnies threatening loopholes whenever I think of something new in Days of Exile. I want to finish this story, I still do. But if I think that my quality's going to drop, I may take preventive measures.
I'm really rather burdened by this. No wonder many authors turned tail and fled from their budding stories. I don't want to end up like "Their Memories of Fukinara High" and run away before I could even finish it.
Well, perhaps I should get back to my reality and do my work first. :(
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Throne of Glass: One's dream that became reality.
Sometime last year, I was in my bookstore looking for Eona, when I saw this particular book, called the 'Throne of Glass' by Sarah J. Maas. Pretty intrigued, I picked it up and brought it home with Eona.
After finishing Eona, I finally looked at this book and thought that it would be a good company for dinner. Then I opened the book and then, I saw the author's thanks:
To all my readers from Fictionpress -
And guess what? I was so surprised, I couldn't begin reading the book.
I know that Fictionpress is probably less notorious than Fanfiction.net in terms of hoarding less-than-decent stories, but still...
Another writer emerges from the Internet!! Apparently Throne of Glass was initially a story on Fictionpress, and now it's fully published, with the sequel on its way.
Those who remembered my thoughts on writers who emerged from fanfiction will know how excited I am about seeing normal people like us get published. And it has slowly become a dream of mine to one day publish something too :)
So anyway, I'm currently halfway through reading Throne of Glass. This post is just a preliminary feeling towards the book. Hopefully after this I can give a detailed and fulfilling review to this book.
This is the book cover I got. Isn't it beautiful???
To those who are wondering: When are you going to publish Chapter 22?...
Soon. Don't be so impatient dearies ;)
After finishing Eona, I finally looked at this book and thought that it would be a good company for dinner. Then I opened the book and then, I saw the author's thanks:
To all my readers from Fictionpress -
And guess what? I was so surprised, I couldn't begin reading the book.
I know that Fictionpress is probably less notorious than Fanfiction.net in terms of hoarding less-than-decent stories, but still...
Another writer emerges from the Internet!! Apparently Throne of Glass was initially a story on Fictionpress, and now it's fully published, with the sequel on its way.
Those who remembered my thoughts on writers who emerged from fanfiction will know how excited I am about seeing normal people like us get published. And it has slowly become a dream of mine to one day publish something too :)
So anyway, I'm currently halfway through reading Throne of Glass. This post is just a preliminary feeling towards the book. Hopefully after this I can give a detailed and fulfilling review to this book.
This is the book cover I got. Isn't it beautiful???
To those who are wondering: When are you going to publish Chapter 22?...
Soon. Don't be so impatient dearies ;)
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Days of Exile: Chapter 20, 21
It has been a while since I posted something fanfiction related, I suppose. Day by day, I'm finding it more difficult to write, because of work and my personal commitments. Nevertheless, I'm still fighting for every minute to write, as long as I have the desire to write, I will.
Wasn't Chapter 20 such a lovely chapter? Not surprisingly, many reviewers reviewed with criticism and doubts about the characters. I would love to say that I've got all the answers, but the truth is that... I DON'T. But one thing is for sure, I've made up my mind to walk down this plot and I hope that you will have the patience with me to walk till the end. Perhaps you might like how things turn out :)
Also, I've mentioned in my review on Eona that I tried out the whole thing of not-always-siding-with-the-protagonist thing into this chapter (and future chapters) so why don't you just give Meia another shot? :P
Don't say I didn't warn you, Chapter 21 onwards will definitely contains parts that you may not like or you may say 'This could've been better if it's this way'. I am also experimenting on my part so I'm afraid yet excited to know how this will turn out. I assure you, the non-Meia parts is still worth reading!
I know many of you will disagree, but I've also made up my mind that I'll bring down the word count of each chapter back to 4500-5000. If you haven't noticed, you guys have been reading close to 6000 word chapters. I don't know about you, but I get really frustrated when the chapter is long. Especially if the story is not as engaging. I really don't have the confidence that you guys will willingly plough through 6000 words and appreciation everything that I've written (even if you assure me again and again!)
At last, this is my review to everyone - because everyone's reviews are almost the same.
Firstly, thank you for putting in the effort to review. I appreciate it. Don’t worry about criticizing, I need a fresh perspective, though it may not mean that I’ll adjust my ways to suit everyone. That being said, of course everyone's reviews are taken for consideration for improvement. Thank you TWA, for reminding me that I've got to show Meia's photographic memory instead of only mentioning it ;P So never hesitate to comment. You never know when your words become the push factor to making someone better.
Just be assured that in the story, everything that everyone had said and done are within my awareness. I am aware of how I’m portraying Meia and everyone in Shinra. Yes, you are free to feel your displeasure at certain people, even protagonists, because it is intentional. :) Hopefully once things unfold and at the end of it, you’ll see things in a different light.
I'm glad that everyone liked Reeve/Cait Sith. Like what my fellow author redcherryamber said, Reeve is one of the least developed characters in FF7. Hope I can expand his character much deeper.
Lastly, to Cracked: Meia doesn't know what exactly happened to the previous lab assistant. Yes, she'll flip if she knew what happened. But the lab assistant wasn't killed so that Meia could fill in the role, just to clear things up. Shinra wanted the previous one dead already, before Meia even came along. Tseng's decision to take Meia into the Shinra Building was rather spontaneous (read Chapter 6 ^^).
Alright, that's all for the week! Have a great week, my sweet cheeks!
Wasn't Chapter 20 such a lovely chapter? Not surprisingly, many reviewers reviewed with criticism and doubts about the characters. I would love to say that I've got all the answers, but the truth is that... I DON'T. But one thing is for sure, I've made up my mind to walk down this plot and I hope that you will have the patience with me to walk till the end. Perhaps you might like how things turn out :)
Also, I've mentioned in my review on Eona that I tried out the whole thing of not-always-siding-with-the-protagonist thing into this chapter (and future chapters) so why don't you just give Meia another shot? :P
Don't say I didn't warn you, Chapter 21 onwards will definitely contains parts that you may not like or you may say 'This could've been better if it's this way'. I am also experimenting on my part so I'm afraid yet excited to know how this will turn out. I assure you, the non-Meia parts is still worth reading!
I know many of you will disagree, but I've also made up my mind that I'll bring down the word count of each chapter back to 4500-5000. If you haven't noticed, you guys have been reading close to 6000 word chapters. I don't know about you, but I get really frustrated when the chapter is long. Especially if the story is not as engaging. I really don't have the confidence that you guys will willingly plough through 6000 words and appreciation everything that I've written (even if you assure me again and again!)
At last, this is my review to everyone - because everyone's reviews are almost the same.
Firstly, thank you for putting in the effort to review. I appreciate it. Don’t worry about criticizing, I need a fresh perspective, though it may not mean that I’ll adjust my ways to suit everyone. That being said, of course everyone's reviews are taken for consideration for improvement. Thank you TWA, for reminding me that I've got to show Meia's photographic memory instead of only mentioning it ;P So never hesitate to comment. You never know when your words become the push factor to making someone better.
Just be assured that in the story, everything that everyone had said and done are within my awareness. I am aware of how I’m portraying Meia and everyone in Shinra. Yes, you are free to feel your displeasure at certain people, even protagonists, because it is intentional. :) Hopefully once things unfold and at the end of it, you’ll see things in a different light.
I'm glad that everyone liked Reeve/Cait Sith. Like what my fellow author redcherryamber said, Reeve is one of the least developed characters in FF7. Hope I can expand his character much deeper.
Lastly, to Cracked: Meia doesn't know what exactly happened to the previous lab assistant. Yes, she'll flip if she knew what happened. But the lab assistant wasn't killed so that Meia could fill in the role, just to clear things up. Shinra wanted the previous one dead already, before Meia even came along. Tseng's decision to take Meia into the Shinra Building was rather spontaneous (read Chapter 6 ^^).
Alright, that's all for the week! Have a great week, my sweet cheeks!
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Book Review (5): Eon/Eona
When I first saw the two books side by side each other last year, I sniggered to my friend. "Can they get more boring with their sequel books?"
But with encouragement from a friend, I finally got the book, "Eon".
Eon/Eon Duology
Alison Goodman
Story Sypnosis (in my own words): Eona was a candidate to be a dragoneye, key leaders who held powers of the 12 dragons in their world. Problem is that Eona is actually posing as a boy, Eon. When the Mirror Dragon, missing from 500 years, chose Eona to be its Dragoneye, Eona faced many difficulties trying to cover up her true identity.
-----
So the fact that I've read both Eon and its sequel Eona, you'd expect that I like it?
Well... yes, and no.
In general, I must say that I didn't love this book. It wasn't a bad read, but it's not really a book that I'll read again. So maybe borrow it from the library or something, but it's not necessary to own one copy.
The setting of the book was a fusion of the Chinese and Japanese culture. The land was ruled under an emperor. As a Chinese, I identified many, many oriental elements in this book. The 12 Dragons are from the Chinese Zodiac and the imperial court was very similar to that of the Eastern countries. Not a problem for me, but Westerners may take a while to take it all in, I suppose?
-----
Now, there were some annoying parts of the entire reading experience, and some parts that were simply great. So... I'm gonna start off with the good.
1. Amazing Protagonist
Meet Eona. She had the typical background - orphaned to unknown parents, rescued by her master to be a Dragoneye candidate. Just when I thought it was getting really normal-going... surprise surprise. I discovered her to be really... flawed. She lied constantly... and lied about lying. She had the biggest doubts of her ability and she lived in constant fear of having her true identity discovered.
In the sequel, more of her flaws surfaced (can't say more in case I spoil the story). You find that she is actually inching on Mary Sue at times, but ultimately, the author really brings Eona's character down. It's one of those books where you put down the book in the middle of it and go, "Dang, Eona, that was a dumb move." It's one of those moments that you think to yourself that protagonists aren't goody goody as you thought.
Do I like Eona? No, I don't. I really dislike her (and I have people who agree with me!), but I salute the author for making her so... different from a typical protagonist. There's a certain quality about Eona that is very different from other girls.
This is the best picture I can get of Eona, poor thing :P It's pretty accurate as how my mind sees it, all the way down to her twin swords.
2. Asian culture research, I give you props
As mentioned, the book was set in a fusion of Chinese and Japanese culture. From the clothing that people wear, to the rituals that people have, to the customs (such as bowing towards the senior) and the setting of the imperial court and the emperor's monarchy... you know this author really did enough research. As a Chinese I don't go all, "Pooh! This is all crap!", so you know it's not that ridiculous.
3. Conflicts of beliefs
This book played the dangerous card of conflicting beliefs. The theme of power versus compassion was dominant in the book, and Eona constantly struggles at the fine line between both. That means, this book is kinda philosophical and all. Not everything is as black-and-white as we like.
Well, seeing how similar this is with "I Want To Be A Turk!" and "Days of Exile", I gotta say, I'm quite intrigued with how the author deals with the conflicting beliefs. And she did it quite well. I really suck at writing philosophical chapters, so I wonder how did I survive explaining why Meia could be a Turk even though she disliked what they did...
Alas, that's all the goodies I have for this book, so let the baddies begin :X
4. Love Triangles... AGAIN?
First it was Twilight. Then it was Hunger Games. Now this. And in all three series, the female protagonist was deeply swayed by the third party. Okay, maybe not so in Eon/Eona but still there is! I doubt I really need to explain more about love triangles. I mean it's great, but I've been reading too many of those. This is just a personal complaint.
5. Yes, Eona does get annoying.
Another personal complaint of mine. She lies and she harps too much about her lying, her unworthiness and her flaws. Honestly, I quite liked the experience of disliking Eona. This book gave me my first - I've never disliked a protagonist till now. Previously, I had absolutely no issues with any protagonists. Now I know. It was quite a novel experience.
In fact, I liked it so much I kinda incorporated it into my own story. As some of you have commented, my recent chapter, Chapter 20 of Days of Exile, Meia did some things that you are not fully agreeable with. Well, that's great. Enjoy the feeling of 'Oh man, why did you do that you nincompoop!!"
So... I disliked Eona, yet I liked the experience. Is that a compliment for the book? You decide.
---
Rating: Consider It
Yeah, it's not a book that'll change your life, but it's not too bad if you are willing to read it in an unbiased manner.
Have you read the book before? What do you think?
The pictures above were shamelessly taken from these websites:
- http://www.thereadventurer.com/1/post/2012/7/three-heads-are-better-than-one-or-two-is-there-hope-for-ya-fantasy.html
- http://veari.deviantart.com/art/Eona-257692864
Disclaimer: Despite the official term, the above book review is not a wholesome and fully critical one. The book is merely reviewed and reflected on based on story writing skills and other literary elements.
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