The Rise of the Nine Dragons – Shadows Over Southeast Asia is an epic tale of a group of individuals facing the looming threat of a powerful organized crime syndicate, the Nine Dragons Syndicate, which holds a tight grip over the economy and politics of Southeast Asia. The story follows the journey of Bintang, a former journalist, and Sebastian, a time traveler, as they confront the cunning tactics and dark forces led by influential figures like Tian Hao and Yun Feng. 
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Jakarta and Indonesia's new capital (IKN), the core conflict revolves around political ambition, environmental crises, and economic manipulation. The tension arises as personal political agendas clash with the greater good, forcing Bintang and his team—comprising a former hacker, a diplomat, an environmental activist, and a conservation officer—to battle not just for justice but for the future of their land. Together, they face an enemy that wields not only power and wealth but also the ability to disrupt the natural balance.
At the same time, we have Heru, a character-driven by revenge and the pursuit of scientific advancements. His motivations create a tension-filled dynamic within the narrative, adding depth to the ongoing conflict between Bintang's team and the Nine Dragons.

The Rise of the Nine Dragons – Shadows Over Southeast Asia

After settling back in, Chen decided to visit some old haunts, places he once frequented. Walking the streets of Jakarta at night was both familiar and unsettling. There was a tension in the air, a reminder of the Nine Dragons’ constant influence. Their grip on the city wasn’t just economic—it was psychological, too. 


Chen finds himself near one of the Nine Dragons’ strongholds, an upscale restaurant owned by a syndicate member. 


He hesitated for a moment, feeling the weight of his past choices pressing down on him. Should he confront them? Should he try to fix the damage done? But the longer he stood there, the more he realized that he wasn’t ready. The Nine Dragons weren’t just an organization—they were an empire, one that had burrowed itself into every facet of the city. And standing outside their stronghold, Chen felt smaller than ever. 


Chen Lu's internal monologue … “What am I even doing here? 


Nighttime in Jakarta.