The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 28 – Start of the Final Week
Monday, the 22th of Spring, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
[LOAD GAME]
…
[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]
The last week of Spring was here and Taeko awoke with that in mind as he showered and ate breakfast with his pets. There was an air of finality to it. He wished the crop fairy event happened given that he wanted to wrap the harvest for spring. The only crops that were going to carry over into next season with the [Tea Leaves], [Coffee Beans], and the [Ancient Fruit]. He moved to get fully dressed for the day. He did put the clothes he equipped except the [Signed Ace Jacket] opting instead for the [Albedo Jacket]. He also made sure he took a few healing items and weapons in his [Inventory].
The farm only produced [Green Bean] and a [Garlic] that shoved into the fridge. He went into shed to gather that harvest. The coffee he kept in his [Inventory], where he got the wine for Chen in a box in selling bin along with the [Salmonberry Wines] and [Green Bean Juice]. The rest from the Kegs went to the fridge. Having enough mayo, he put two in the selling bin while keeping one to give to Velma. He also kept the [Pickled Garlic] and [Ancient Fruit Jelly] and sold the other two in the preserves jars. Last matters were the tappers and furnaces. The [Copper Bars] were put into storage, while the [Honey] and [Maple Syrup] were put into the selling bin.
"Ok, everything's ready. I need to get going right now. May as well spend the day in the city and come back later." Taeko remarked to himself.
Logan and Tom were left home as he called Penny as he got voicemail.
"Yo, Penny. It's Taeko. I'm heading into the city a bit early to deal with business. Call me and I'll meet you at Coral World. Don't forget to pick up Angel too." Taeko said before hanging up. "There she got the message. Now, which car to take?"
Ultimately, he decided to just take the bus after getting his gear in order and his [Trucker Hat] on. He planned on jacking a ride and getting it painted.
[Cues Zuzu City BGM: GTA Advance Soundtrack – Yellow Butter]
Arriving in the city, Taeko walked along considering it was barely about seven in the morning. The city was still rather sleepy even if it was Monday morning. The Game decided to inform Taeko of another way of getting vehicles which led to an impound lot giving him the option to purchase cars there. Sad thing was there were only five to choose from called the Ganton Set. He forked over 2400 to the police officer who probably was going to shove it in their pocket and Taeko wheeled in a [Remington]. It was an average all-around lowrider best for the urban roads and Taeko was glad it hard with hydraulics. He got it over to Banningfield to get it customized. Got the bass boosted on the radio, all of [Slamin] parts (exhaust, front bumper, rear bumper), chrome arches, Rimshine brand rims, nitrous, and it covered a jet black with a Rayquaza on the head. It did cost 30,000 Gold, but he planned on making it back up. As he played some jazz getting back on the road, his phone rang to which he put on speaker seeing it's Hitomi.
"Yo, Hitomi. What can I do for you?" Taeko mused.
"I got a bit of a problem. Thankfully, not with the Snakes, but related." Hitomi said annoyed. "There's this piece of shit that's been hanging around the last few days. Pretty sure, she's a dropout or something. A bit of a problem the area had was this blue haired asshole pulling petty crime. The only reason she got away hassling customers was because the old man was a total skeeze. She wasn't around yesterday when you showed up, but I'm seeing her now."
"Describe her for me." Taeko asked.
"She's looks like a punk rock tumblrite. Dyed blue hair, blue eyes, and a tattoo sleeve on her right arm. Decently attractive, but she ain't no knockout." Hitomi spat.
"I'll look into it. You should go on ahead to school." Taeko said assuring.
"Ok, but can you do something for me? Velma mentioned you have a hand in that XanTech shop. Could you maybe get something from there? I've wanted a [Don Doom Scouter]…because it's perfect for my cosplay." Hitomi said. "Could you please get me one?"
[Quest Alert!]
[GTAZ - H Mission: Strange Isn't It? (1)]
The first part of a two-part quest, the story of Hitomi aiding her way to making gains for you and her.
Objective: Go To XanTech and obtain the [Don Doom Scouter].
Deliver it to Hitomi.
Requirement: Quest has to be done before 10 a.m.
Bonus Objectives: ?
Quest Success: 2000 Gold, +Friendship with Hitomi, Access to the Next Part of the Quest
Quest Failure: A Hella of a Problem
Accept? [Y/N]
"Hella of a…" Taeko thought before saying, "Sure, Hitomi. Just wait for me at your school."
"It's nearly eight. I'm calling in sick. I don't want to have go down there and have that bitch try to steal my car." Hitomi said.
She thanked him and hung up as he sped onward to XanTech. He checked the time seeing it was already eight a.m. and his stomach growled from the light breakfast. As he drove near the Red Gecko, he spied a familiar face in the parking lot, a quintessential hipster. She had auburn brown hair, blue eyes, and freckles. She wore blue faded jeans, black and white shoes, pale pink shirt, and a black leather jacket over a grey hoodie.
"She looks like Max Caulfield from Life is…Oh no…you got to be." Taeko said pulling into the parking lot. "[Observe]."
To his ire, it was Max. From what [Observe] told him, she and Max was jumpers from an alternative timeline or some nonsense. He knew the explanation was bunk because he had a feeling Kyu arranged for them to be here. He groaned in frustration realizing that the tumblrite was most likely Chloe. Frankly, he did not really like the game all too much for being a writing dumpster fire. Taeko got out. Max was playing her guitar playing some indie rock with her case open to collect gold. Honestly, he would have ignored her, but that was a tiny shiver of pity in him.
[You Gave Max 1,000 Gold.]
"Thank you so much." Max said.
"Yeah, sure." Taeko said walking into the restaurant.
He got his food while chatting with Katie, who was just as him annoyed at the hipster outside. Once he got his fried rice and shrimp, he returned to his car going over to XanTech. Xander was happy to see him and Taeko forked the 250 Gold over for the scouter before returning to the Bluffs.
[BGM Ends]
As he did, he realized he triggered a cutscene. He rolled up near an alley and spied Chloe on a cell phone.
"Look Max, I've been scouting the place for nearly a week. There's only one employee and she goes to that prissy-ass private school. She has to have hella cash." Chloe remarked. "All we have to do is wait for when the shop closes. Don't worry, Max. It'll work out just fine."
Taeko rolled away watching Chloe leave in her truck. He rolled his eyes as he was out of the cutscene. He parked the car and went up to Hitomi's to deliver the scouter. She happily took it and the quest was marked completed.
[Quest Completed!]
[GTAZ - H Mission: Strange Isn't It? (1)]
The first part of a two-part quest, the story of Hitomi aiding her way to making gains for you and her.
Objective: Go To XanTech and obtain the [Don Doom Scouter].
Deliver it to Hitomi.
Requirement: Quest has to be done before 10 a.m.
Bonus Objectives: Decide whether to give money for Max's street performance [+Karma Points for the Next Quest because you did]
Quest Success: 2000 Gold, +Friendship with Hitomi, Access to the Next Part of the Quest
[Talk to Hitomi]
"Hitomi, we have a problem. I spied that chick and she's planning on robbing you because she thinks you have money to steal." Taeko explained.
Hitomi laughed at him and then she realized he was serious before facepalming. Apparently, Chloe thought she had money.
"If I had money, I wouldn't be living above a bookstore." Hitomi said dryly. "They're striking tonight?"
"Yes, but we'll stop them. Hitomi, I know you called sick…but I need to work with Velma today. I'll let Velma on in. I'll get here before closing and get the jump on them. You in?" Taeko mused.
"Of course, anything to stick it to her." Hitomi said excitedly.
[Quest Alert!]
[GTAZ - H Mission: Strange Isn't It? (2)]
The second part of a two-part quest, the story of Hitomi aiding her way to making gains for you and her.
Objective: Arrive at the bookstore an hour before closing.
Prevent Chloe and Max from robbing/harming Hitomi.
Requirement: Your success rate of stopping them will be highly dependent on what steps you take. If you get there too late, the mission is an automatic fail.
Bonus Objectives: ? or ?
Quest Success: 5000 Gold, +Friendship with Hitomi, [Reward Dependent on which Bonus Objective is completed]
[Quest is auto-accepted]
Taeko immediately called Velma with directives while explaining what happened.
"Ok, I'll be right over. Do you want me to get a weapon for Miss Raharu?" Velma asked.
"Yes, I want to ensure our incoming thieves are outgunned." Taeko said firmly. "You'll be seeing Hitomi in a few."
He hung up.
"Ok, Hitomi. I need to go in a while. I'm hosting a field trip." Taeko said ruffling Hitomi's hair. "You wait for Velma."
He left and parked his car in the underground garage at headquarters. Walking into the cul-de-sac nearby, he scanned for cars to take.
"No. Nah. Nada. Oh hello." Taeko said spying a motorcycle. "[Double T]. One of the GTA bikes from the later games. Sign me up."
Taeko got on and started it up as a motorcycle helmet materialized over his head to which he grinned as he revved the engine speeding off with it. He raced over to Coral World and activated the time skip for the other quest he had. He sat leaning on his bike in the parking lot as Penny arrived with the kids who were all in their new outfits.
"Taeko, thank for coming." Penny said hugging him. "Where did you get the bike though?"
"It's a yakuza thing. Though red isn't my color for these things." Taeko remarked.
"It's still cool though." Angel said. "Ready to go in?"
Taeko went ahead in with them. Penny was pleased to have one on one time with Taeko and it warmed her heart to see him with the kids. Though, Penny had a feeling Angel may had a bit of a crush on Taeko.
"Why does Taeko have to charm so many ladies?"
The thought of a darker voice came but Penny shoved it aside. She was trying to come to grips with her dhampirism and was making strides. She still did crave to bite Taeko, however. It did perturb her to see him a bit tense like he felt something bad was going to happen. She clearly did not anything bad happening with how pleasant the day went. After tour through the various tanks and going into the underwater observatory, the group were at Coral World's restaurant having lunch. Taeko finally relaxed as he dug into the shrimp scampi he ordered.
"You know Taeko, this was really nice. Thank you again for coming." Penny said putting her hand on his.
"Pen, you're very welcome. I'm just glad nothing bad has happened." Taeko said.
"The day's gone done…what could possi…" Angel said only for to Penny suddenly spout, "Don't finish that sentence!"
The patrons all looked at her with confusion.
"What? You mean what could possibly go…"
That server was cut up by a woman screaming with people running in fear about a monster with Taeko sensing it. Penny's eye twitched as she glared at that server who promptly realized he was not getting his tip…and that he could on a smoke break since yesterday. SMASH!
Entering the restaurant was a large purple octopus with red eyes and a mass of tentacles that usually appear to emerge from his mouth below a row of sharp fangs.
"Behold, I am Ultros. The…ACK!"
Penny got up and grabbed an empty table to smash on his head. Her eyes burned bright red as her fangs were coming out.
"You just had to show up! I! WAS! HAVING! A! GOOD! TIME!" Penny said smacking Ultros with the table.
[Boss – Ultros – One annoying squid. Asian girls beware, he's creepy and corny. Fights with tentacles. Cowardly. Stats: HP (6,726/7,000) / Damage (100-?) / Defense (10) / Speed (5) / EXP Given (No) / Drops: No]
"Stop hitting me!" Ultros said swatting her aside. "For I want avenge my brethren who you made into sushi."
"Angel, get Penny out of the way. Vincent and Jas. Get behind me! I'm going to make us a way out." Taeko said getting up.
Angel moved to get behind as the little ones complied as he faced Ultros.
"And what will you do to stop me?" Ultros said. "I am a giant squid."
"And I'm a martial artist!" Taeko shouted drawing his hands to his sides.
He charged two whitish-blue energy spheres with streaks of electricity much to Ultros' surprise.
"I thought you were a martial artist, not a magician!" Ultros said fearfully.
"[Final Crash]!" Taeko said bringing his hands forward firing out a bluish-white beam that crashed into Ultros.
The attack sent out the restaurant and smashing into one of the enclosures. Penny regained her footing as Taeko ran up to her.
"Penny, we're going to have to fight that thing." Taeko said as Penny looked sourly.
"Give me a weapon. I want to take it and empty it in that overgrown seafood platter's skull." Penny said angrily.
Taeko would partly regret giving her [V-Charger Special] as she ran out and emptied as many round as she got into Ultros' hide.
"And Penny's running on pure anger." Taeko said sighing before calling his assistant. "Yeah, Velma. I need you for backup. I'm at Coral World…you're already there. Sensed th-When the hell did you know ki sensing?"
"You never asked." Velma said standing right in front of them surprising them.
Taeko hung up.
"Kids, this is my assistant, Velma. Velma, I need you to protect these kids while I murder a giant squid." Taeko said as Velma nodded. "Good!"
[Cues Boss BGM: Final Fantasy VI OST – The Decisive Battle]
Taeko walked out to which Ultros flinging things at Penny who was dodging and shooting her way around.
[Taeko's Energy: 700/900]
[Ultros' HP: 5,999/7,000]
Ultros tried to swing his tentacle at her only for Taeko to leap it and slice it with Gunshin cauterizing the wound.
"Penny!" Taeko said as she began to calm down. "Don't be rash, you nearly got smacked into next week."
Ultros squealed and whined about the pain of his tendril before screaming he was going to take them seriously. Taeko had an idea getting out a bottle of [Rhubarb Wine].
"Hey Ultros, how about a drink?" Taeko said throwing it at him. "Hope you like flaming booze!"
With a finger beam, he shot the bottle getting the liquid to combine on Ultros' body giving him a [Burning] debuff.
"It burns, but it has a lovely sm-Oh wait, that's burning squid! AIEEE!" Ultros screamed.
Before they could attack, Ultros bolted screaming he'll be back.
[Music Ends]
Taeko felt the boss music just suddenly ended to which he realized the fight…was over.
"Seriously?" Taeko said as Penny looked disappointed.
"Here's your gun back." Penny said giving it back to him.
Technically, Taeko did complete his quest, but the park was damaged leading to it having to close. The kids still had a good time and even got free vouchers to come back.
[Penny Story Quest Complete: Field Trippin']
Penny's 8-Heart Event has been expanded to helping her take her and her students to the aquarium, Coral World. A place of marine life and wonder.
Quest Objective: Chaperone Vincent, Angel, and Jas on their field trip with Penny.
Defend your party from any harm.
Ensure they have a good time.
Quest Restriction: Obviously, don't get those kids killed or maimed. You can also take one person with you to assist whether it be one of your pets or an ally.
Quest Reward: Friendship with Penny remains at 8 Heart, Friendship with Vincent will be maxed out, 2000 Gold, ?
"That's just great. My field trip ends up with a giant monster that cowardly fled a fight." Penny said.
"But Miss Penny, you fought a giant squid! That was still cool!" Vincent said trying to make her feel better. "That was so brave."
"It's ok. We can come back next time." Jas said gently.
"We can't say it was boring." Angel said mirthfully.
"I should drop them home. But what about you?" Penny said turning to Taeko.
"Investigate that squid. Probably a Joja mutant." Taeko mused as Penny took her leave.
As she left with the kids, Velma came up.
"Taeko, I believe that it most likely. I have looking into this. What I have so far isn't good news…and has to do with the labs in the mines being the key." Velma mused as Taeko groaned. "But you have other tasks to focus on."
"I know." Taeko said getting on his bike. "I'm going to the office to chill."
He sped off as Velma left in her own car to return to the bookstore. The yakuza leader spent the day in his office doing busywork and looking other potential assets he can look into. He decided it was did have to not be a bar or a gambling den not wanting to step on the Triads' toes. He was their ally. In time, night would fall with the time to put the plan into motion.
[-]
Taeko slipped out of the building on cue and had scaled the bookstore's roof to get into position calling the other two to make sure the plan was in motion. Taeko had planned to deal with Max himself, but he was wondering the bonus objective.
"I have two choices. If this is referencing that game, it's probably either spare them or kill them. Highly doubt I can leave only Max alive if I waste Chloe. The game did say I got 'karma points' for giving money to Max…maybe getting them under me will be easier. Plus not like they can really fight back. No parents, little money, and I'm pretty sure they probably pissed off somebody important." Taeko mused to himself.
He made a quick call to Woozie.
"Hey, Wooz. I need some advice…on investing. I want to obtain an asset, but I'm unsure of where to start. I don't want to buy a bar or a casino to really step on your toes. We're allies after all…and I don't really want to deal in weapons barring XanTech." Taeko said.
[Your Wisdom has upped your friendship with Woozie!]
"It's good to hear that you've put thought into this. It wouldn't be problematic for to get a bar, Taeko, at least as long as it's not near one of mine. I can at least look into a few businesses you could get into, I'll call your secretary when I got something you look into." Woozie said. "Have a good night, kid."
"Thanks, Wooz. By the way, if you can get into contact with Misty. Tell her to give me a call. Bye." Taeko said before hanging up.
Taeko checked his firearms making sure he had enough and there was little chance of a jamming on the pair of [MP5]. Velma got into position in the cul-de-sac nearly watching. On cue, Chloe's truck rolled into the Bluffs going around the back into the alley behind the bookstore which had a small parking lot where Hitomi's car lay.
Chloe parked and got out.
"All right, Max. I'm going in. Stay here, I'll need you here as backup." Chloe said cocking her pistol.
"Chloe, I really have a bad feeling about this. What if she has a weapon or something?" Max asked making a point. "You didn't even watch her Sunday. She knows you prowling around."
"Don't be a chickenshit, Max. That scrawny chink's going to be no problem at all. That old man running the place wouldn't even hire another employee." Chloe said getting out. "You have your pistol. It'll be in and out with no one dying. Store's closing in about ten minutes."
Chloe left the alley slipping her pistol in her jacket and Taeko made his move scaling down. There was a small meter in his vision on how much noise he was making. He tried his damnedest to scale down without making too much noise. Taeko stepped on a discard tuna can and had an idea. He flung it at the wall of the alley. It made noise but Max looked at the source allowing to Taeko to scale down the other way. Now on the ground, he crouched moving swiftly towards the truck being glad for the increased speed from the shoes. He was near the window and he made his move.
"I never pinned you the type to be working with Miss Tumblrite." Taeko said spooking Max. "Ironically, if I had not bought that bookstore, you probably would have gotten away with it."
Taeko draw one of his [MP5] aimed at Max's face. She immediately froze up recognizing the face and was terrified of the gun in her face.
"Now, here's a quick lesson. This is an MP5, a sub-automatic gun. Lightweight with an accurate sight and 30-round magazine capacity. I can literally empty a few rounds in you and this truck in the time you try to get your piece out. And seeing I have a second one…by the time Chloe runs in. Game over for the two of you. Now, I don't want to waste you…unless you give me no choice. I doubt either one of you have any actual gunplay skills." Taeko said icily. "Now hand over the gun and get out of the car."
Max gave up the [Pistol] and got out with her hands up.
"Are you a police officer or something?" Max asked.
"Because police officers have MP5s." Taeko said sarcastically. "No, I'm a businessman of sorts. Now we're going for a walk."
As the store closed, Chloe went in drawing a gun at Hitomi's face.
"All right, bitch. You and I are going for a walk." Chloe said as Hitomi just rolled her eyes. "What the fuck are you doing rolling your eyes? This is a robbery!"
Hitomi laughed at her and promptly took out her [Don Doom Chemgun].
"You think some toy is going to-" Chloe said before Hitomi used said 'toy' to blast a cardboard cutout. "What the hell?"
"Yes, it's real." Hitomi said with a smug smirk. "And you're going to drop the gun."
"I doubt that." Chloe said. "It's only one gun on one. I can still win."
The heavy cock of a [Pump-Action Shotgun] got Chloe to turn around to see Velma come in with her weapon raised.
"Two on one, actually. Now drop it." Velma said only to see Max and Taeko come in. "Three on one and we have a hostage."
"Max! What happened?" Chloe asked.
"He overheard the plan…and he's the new owner of the bookstore." Max said sheepishly. "Since yesterday. I told you taking a day off was a bad idea."
Chloe wanted to fight still, but Hitomi had enough. She jumped the counter and smacked Chloe with the butt of her gun on the back of her head sending the bluenette onto the ground out cold.
"So, Taeko? What is it going to be? Sparing their lives or ending them?" Velma asked.
"Oh no, please don't tell me you're with the Triads." Max said fearfully.
"No, we're allies of that. I lead the Shadow Yakuza." Taeko said as Max went white. "And before you say I'm not Japanese, I'm half of that. Black Asians are rare, I know. But you're going to tell me why you're so scared of Triad."
They all moved to the backroom with Chloe being tied to a chair. Max explained that when they arrived into the Ferngill Republic, they had little money and no real idea of the lay of the place. Chloe had ripped off a weed dealer who said he was going to sick the Triads after them because the weed was for a Triad member. Taeko called Woozie about to confirm Max's story but stepped outside the room to do so. Ironically enough, the dealer in question did not send out Triads after them, was because said dealer wound up robbing a dealer for the Purple Dragons.
"Still, this can't be tolerated. What will you do?" Woozie asked. "I can handle them if you want."
"Oh no, let me. Getting them under my thumb will work out for me well." Taeko said deviously. "Besides, those two idiots tried to rob Shadow Yakuza turf. I can't be merciful. I'll handle it. Have a good night, Wooz."
He returned into the room as Chloe began to wake up.
"My aching head. What the hell happened?" Chloe asked.
"Chloe, you screwed up big time." Max said. "We may have pissed off a Yakuza boss."
"Yakuza?" Chloe said looking at her. "What are you? Dirty rice or something?"
Velma smacked her behind the head for that remark.
"Chloe, you're seriously making me consider just killing you and Max." Taeko mused annoyed with her. "Or just handing you over to the Triads. But I don't want to waste the effort of doing so…because Max realizes she's in no position to be a dumbass. You owe me a bit of a big debt considering I don't hand you two over to the police or the Triads."
"Could you untie me so I could kick your ass?" Chloe snarked.
"You know what? Fine. How about a bet? You. Me. A fight, no weapons at all. If you win, I let you and Max go. I'll even wager a half a million Gold." Taeko said as Chloe had a grin.
"And if you win?" Max asked.
"You both work for me. And you'll also pay half a million in turn." Taeko said.
"No weapons, huh? Fine. Then I'll triple that bet." Chloe said as Velma untied her.
"Chloe, I don't think this is a good idea." Max said sagely.
"Max, when I win, we have use that money to live like queens." Chloe said before turning to Taeko. "Alright, let's do that."
The fight was set to be on the empty cul-de-sac with the rules being winning by either knockout, the other person caught cheating, or surrender. Velma held onto his haramaki and sheath with his blades. Taeko gave his red jacket to Hitomi to wear. Max stood there worriedly.
"You two can begin." Velma remarked.
Taeko and Chloe stared each other down. It was when Taeko took a fighting stance that Max realized they were screwed.
"What the hell are you doing?" Chloe asked.
Taeko did not speak, but simply used a rush of speed to slam his elbow into Chloe's chest with a bit of force. He had held back not wanting to kill an investment as Chloe coughed. Blue eyes meet cold green for a brief moment before he pulled his arm away and Chloe collapsed.
"Not even a full two minutes." Hitomi said as Max helped Chloe up.
The quest complete screen came up with Taeko reading it over, but he noticed Velma was too. Then again, she was handpicked by Kyu. Taeko realized had to be aware of his power at the least.
[Quest Complete!]
[GTAZ - H Mission: Strange Isn't It? (2)]
The second part of a two-part quest, the story of Hitomi aiding her way to making gains for you and her.
Objective: Arrive at the bookstore an hour before closing.
Prevent Chloe and Max from robbing/harming Hitomi.
Requirement: Your success rate of stopping them will be highly dependent on what steps you take. If you get there too late, the mission is an automatic fail.
Bonus Objectives: Spare the Baes [Passed] or Kill the Baes [Failed]
Quest Success: 5000 Gold, +Friendship with Hitomi, [Chloe and Max under your thumb.]
"Chloe will be fine. I held back." Taeko said to Max. "But I believe you two have a deal to honor."
Max looked nervous but he gently brushed her hair aside to ease her away. Velma slapped Chloe awake and she realized she lost the fight.
"How the fuck did you do that?" Chloe asked.
"Martial artist. It runs in my family." Taeko said. "Did you really think I wasn't going to go into that bet if I didn't know I could win? The 'All Asians know Martial Arts' trope is funny sometimes. And now you owe me 1.5 million."
"Don't worry, we'll do what we can to pay for it." Max said passively.
"Good, her passiveness in working in my favor." Taeko thought.
The Game had given him a bit of information on what could be down with them. Unlike San or Hitomi, he did have plenty of options.
"Velma, can we arrange living arrangement for them?" Taeko asked.
"We can actually. They can take one of the houses on this lot, and I made the calls to get the power and water activated. You can the one at the end here across from mine." Velma said as she got a nod from Taeko. "I'll get right on it."
"Hitomi. You have a new employee to help you in the shop." Taeko mused pointing to Max. "And as for Chloe…she's going to be the Yakuza's maid."
"What?!" Chloe said.
"Can we put her in a maid costume?" Hitomi asked.
"Yes, because Chloe knows she and Max are in no position to argue. Right?" Taeko said as Chloe begrudgingly nodded. "Oh don't worry, Max will be serving too."
"Hitomi, go with Chloe over to her truck for a moment. I need to speak to Max." Taeko said.
"Mind if I just take her to clean the mess in the bookstore?" Hitomi said as Taeko nodded. "Ok, come on."
Chloe was dragged off as Taeko and Max were left.
"Considering I'm literally getting you a job and work, you're further in the hole for me. Chloe thought Hitomi was rich…but she's actually orphan charity case for a private school. I'm helping her out…kinda being her sugar daddy. Now, Max. Take into account your position and what you've been put into. Be understand that I am being merciful by most means." Taeko said as Max nodded.
He spied the options the Game give him. He could have been merciful and settled for talking, but the [Strip] option was available. He decided he could indulge after all thanks to the karmic points he got and selected in.
"However, you do have to be punished a bit. So, I'm going to need you to strip down." Taeko mused as Max squeaked.
"Here? Now?" Max sputtered with her cheeks flushed pink. "But…"
"Don't worry. This cul-de-sac is literally empty with the only people living here being my assistant and you two." Taeko mused. "So, get under that streetlamp and get started."
"Max, this is a punishment after all. I may have spared you, but I do have to ensure you're not all too comfortable. You did you both would do anything, so I'm holding you to your word." Taeko said with a grin thinking, "Plus, anything to take the piss out of Chloe."
Max fidgets a bit before moving under the streetlight looking around nervously as Taeko crossed his arms. She starts by quickly rolling up her shirt, revealing a pale pink bra revealing a freckled chest. She slips off the jacket and shirt revealing more freckles on her shoulders.
"I don't if it's worse that you're silent or that I rather you say something." Max squeaked said shedding the bra revealing a modest pair which the nipples hardening in the cold night air. "Maybe make a comment."
"Well, I could do that. But this is a first time I have anyone actually under my debt." Taeko admitted.
"But you ar-"
"Would you believe me if I said that I literally started this group of mine three weeks ago. Started from nothing really." Taeko mused. "Kinda funny, really. Now go on."
She kicks off her shoes and drops her jeans revealing a plain white pair of underwear which came off. Clean shaven, freckled, and rather skinny...Taeko could make the guess Hitomi had a bit of size over her in the chest department. Max was covering up.
"Ok, I learned my lesson. Can I get dressed now?" Max said.
"Go on ahead. I'll examine my investment in full another time." Taeko said as Max hastily got dressed.
"This is going to probably sound really bad, but could I have gold for that? I really could them for groceries." Max said.
She got 500 Gold from them.
"I have a feeling your girlfriend sinks gold into her pot habit when she can't steal them." Taeko said as Max tried to look away. "Not helping your case."
He sighed and decided to give her one of the [Chocolate Cakes] he had saying that she was probably going to want something sweet to end the bitter day. Velma came out of her house saying it was all set up and the keys were at the office. She also returned Taeko's blades and haramaki.
"I'll take Max to get hers. You go get Chloe." Velma said as Max followed her.
Taeko moved over to the store to see Chloe cleaning the mess as Hitomi watched.
"Hitomi, go on ahead to bed. The house for those two are ready." Taeko affirmed. "So, I need to take Chloe."
Hitomi nodded proceeding to lock up for the night. Taeko took Chloe to the alley.
"If you didn't know those fancy ass moves, I would have won." Chloe complained.
"You do realize those moves are no joke. Not only skilled in it, but gunplay, and swordplay." Taeko said icily.
"What, those toys are swords?" Chloe said only to have Gunshin near her face which let out some flames. "Holy shit!"
"You know, with most people who underestimate me, they usually can back their arrogance." Taeko said before sheathing it. "You? You're in a position where your rudeness isn't adding to your favor, you self-righteous twat. Max realizes exactly how deep in shit you both are. Be grateful, I didn't just kill you."
"Whatever." Chloe snarked.
"I want an apology and a bit of gratitude." Taeko said spying the options he had with her.
"What do you want to me to get on my knees and thank you for your mercy? You want me to dance for you?" Chloe said as Taeko hit the [Dance] option.
"Lap dance, actually. If you're going to be a snarky dumbass, I'm going to make you eat your words." Taeko said opening the trunk to Chloe's truck and having a seat.
Chloe wanted to protest, but Taeko just had a simple look of 'You owe me'. Chloe groaned and came up.
"And take off your jeans and your jacket at it. Eh, screw it. Just get down your underwear like you're a stripper." Taeko said.
"I want some Gold for it." Chloe said.
"Fine. You get 200. I can't have you starving." Taeko said putting the money aside. "Come on."
Chloe began to shed her clothes just wanting to get it over with. Unlike Max, her taste in underwear was in a bit more muted, but there was something to laugh at.
"Juicy." Taeko said reading the words on her backside. "Yeah…I'm sorry, but…pfftt…"
Chloe looked down only to blush and trying to pass them off as Max's. Taeko did not believe her, but he did not voice it. He was just wanted the lap dance which was subpar. He was not expecting a good one from her, it was about the humiliation. She did have a nice bubble butt though.
"You can stop. You earned your money." Taeko said handing it over.
Chloe rolled her eyes as she got dressed. The two ended up to headquarters where Velma gave Chloe the key to house with the suggestion to run the water a bit to clear the pipes. As the duo went off to their new home, Taeko slumped in a chair in the conference room.
"Ugh, what a long day." Taeko said as Velma rubbed his shoulders. "Thanks."
"I will say that I am glad you chose to spare them. They'll be useful even if Chloe's an annoying pain the ass." Velma said. "Honestly, if you had chosen to kill them, I'd pretty much understand why."
"A freaking wallflower antisocial hipster and a dumbass know nothing it all entitled bitch. A match made in SJW heaven. If this is Kyu's form of a joke, I'd kick her in the lady parts. Regardless, I'll take what I can get. Those two will at least be useful for the bookstore…well Max will be." Taeko said getting the bottle of [Rhubarb Wine]. "Get us some glasses, V. And have a seat."
She got him the glasses as he poured for the both of them as she took her seat.
"So, how do you mean on getting them under your thumb?" Velma asked.
"I'll take any advice you got. Max will easily swayed. Chloe did all the hard work of brow beating her into submission, but I can use it to turn Max on Chloe, directly." Taeko mused sipping his wine.
"Honestly, you should leave this play out on its own. With you have the 'power', Chloe can not exactly sway Max to enable her shitty behavior. In my brief moment with Max alone, I noticed resentment. Seems Chloe's shitty behavior is catching up with her. You can take advantage indirectly." Velma said downing her glass.
"Go on." Taeko asked.
"Keep being nice to Maxine, for one. And buy favors from her as well. I saw what you did with her earlier. It's clear she doesn't trust Chloe with money so use that your advantage. And as for Chloe, you can just use her dependence on booze and weed." Velma said pouring another glass.
"It's literally just like Pam. Won't even compare Max to Penny." Taeko mused. "It's going to tough to be nice to the former time jumper."
"Think of the benefits, Taeko." Velma mused. "And Hitomi has decided to officially join the Shadow Yakuza."
"Good." Taeko said getting up. "But there's something I've been meaning to give you."
He presented her with the [Mayo], [Pickled Garlic], [Ancient Fruit Jelly], and the [Yam Juice].
"I've been meaning to give you this, but I kept forgetting." Taeko explained.
"How sweet of you." Velma said kindly. "You should get going home."
"Thanks, V." Taeko said. "Crap, I have to get my jacket back from Hitomi."
"I'll call Woozie to let him down not to have any weed dealers under him sell to Chloe Price." Velma said as Taeko left bidding her good night.
Last step was Hitomi to which he got the jacket back, Hitomi revealed she saw what he did to Chloe.
"That was priceless." Hitomi said with a laugh. "Now I have blackmail to keep her in line."
"Good night, Hitomi. And welcome to the Shadow Yakuza." Taeko said as Hitomi hugged him.
"Thanks." Hitomi said breaking away as he left. "See ya soon, daddy."
The tease, he thought as he got in on his motorcycle. The drive from the city to the farm is long, but he arrived back at home with his bike in his garage. He'd customize the thing tomorrow. He lazily checked the farm cave finding a pair of [Oranges] and [Purple Mushrooms]. He put them in the fridge and off-loaded his [Inventory]. He flopped onto his bed…ready now for sleep.
[=o=]
Max was getting ready for bed as Chloe came up hugging her from behind.
"Hey. We got a bed, this time. Maybe we can put it to good use." Chloe said whispering in her ear.
"Not in the mood." Max said pulling away.
"Is this about that Yakuza asshole?" Chloe asked.
"No. It's about you. Chloe, we could have been killed. And the first thing you're thinking about after we get our lives spared…is sex." Max said glaring at her. "I'm not in the mood."
"Come on! I have to give that asshole a lap dance for 200 Gold." Chloe snarked.
"Might I remind you that we need spending money to maintain the house we have, food, and other things?" Max affirmed.
Max decided not to tell Chloe about what she did considering she did not want Chloe to make things worse. She wanted to keep them in his good graces. Chloe pouted, but just joined Max in bed.
[STATS]
Taeko Kiba Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer/Oyabun
Age: 20 years
HP: 970/970
Energy: 900/900
Overall Level: Planter
Farming Skill Level: 6
Mining Skill Level: 5
Foraging Skill Level: 10
Fishing Skill Level: 5
Combat Skill Level: 10
Gold: 841040
Taeko is a former employee of the corrupt Joja Corporation. Screwing it over, he got away with it free to chase his dreams and ambitions. An anti-hero and a roughneck, he's shown the town he's no pushover. Running Shadow Farm, the ronin is thrusted into plenty of strange happenings within the valley. Pushing ahead, he's formed the mysterious syndicate, Stardew Shadows, to further his business with his own gang of yakuza. Among his favorite foods are pepperoni pizza and pancakes. His favorite gifts tend to center around gaming, manga, and combat. His least favorite food is sea cucumber as he can only tolerate it in Lucky Lunches as he recently discovered.
[Taeko's Perks – No change, so skip]
[Item's Equipped]
Emerald Ring - These are from a set of rings call Stat Rings. These rings enhance a skill depending on the jewel on the hilt. The emerald is imbued with the power of speed. (Increases weapon speed by 10%)
Signed Ace Jacket – Body (Equip Item) - Signatures from the Gangreen Gang adorn this leather jacket. Wear it proudly! +Comes with a stoked white t-shirt (FusionFall Collectible) [Defense +1]
Gamma Blacklight Pants – Legs (Equip Item) - Dark with subtle green glow, these pants are built for the stealthy soldier. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 Defense) (Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)
Gamma Blacklight Shoes – Shoes (Equip Item) - Dark with subtle green glow, these pants are built for the stealthy soldier. (FusionFall collectible) [+2 Defense, +3 Speed] (Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)
Rabbit's Foot – Some say it's lucky, and it sells highly. (Equipping this item lowers your chances of getting unlucky streaks.)
Infrared Goggles– Glasses (Equip Item) – Night vision is yours! Get the edge over your foes by sneaking up on them in the dark. (FusionFall collectible) [Allows for night-vision in darkness] Once equipped, they can be summoned on and off at will.
[Relationships]
[To make things easier, friendships will only be shown here if they are decreased or increased.]
Vincent – 10/10 Hearts – 2500 Friendship Points
[Status of the Farmland]
[Column 1]
Row 1) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 2) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 3) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 4) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 5) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 6) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 7) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 8) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 9) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 10) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 11) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 12) Coffee Bean (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
[Column 2]
Row 1) Rice (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 6/8)
Row 2) Rice (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 6/8)
Row 3) Rice (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 6/8)
Row 4) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 5) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 7/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 7/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 9) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 23/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 10) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 11) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 21/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 12) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
[Column 3]
Row 1) Beans (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 21/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 2) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 12/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 3) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 20/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 4) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 12/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 5) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 21/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 13/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 10/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 12/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 9) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 10) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 11) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 12) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
[Column 4]
Row 1) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 2) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/7)
Row 4) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/7)
Row 5) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/7)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 41/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown) *T*
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 41/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown) *T*
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 41/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown) *T*
Row 9) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 41/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown) *T*
Row 10) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/7)
Row 11) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/7)
Row 12) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 5/7)
[Column 5]
Row 1) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 5/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 2) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 5/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 3) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 5/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 4) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 5/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 5) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 5/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 6)
Row 7)
Row 8)
Row 9)
Row 10)
Row 11)
Row 12)
[Column 6]
Row 1)
Row 2)
Row 3)
Row 4) Tap Sapling (Days in the Soil: 4/20, Will Produce Every Day After Fully Grown)
Row 5) Tap Sapling (Days in the Soil: 4/20, Will Produce Every Day After Fully Grown)
Row 6) Spring Seeds (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 7) Spring Seeds (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 8) Spring Seeds (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 9) Spring Seeds (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 10) Spring Seeds (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 11) Spring Seeds (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 12) Spring Seeds (Quality Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
(Day 22 Total Profits: 2,784 Gold + (2,250 Gold from Chen's Grocery) + (Gold Gained from Bus Profits: 500) = 5,534 Gold)
(Shadow Farm's Total Profits (This adds all the money made by the end of each day): 1,556,866 Gold)
[Status of the Pets – No change, so skip]
[SAVING GAME]
….
[GAME SAVED!]
(A/N: Why Life is Strange characters? Well, I do have a bit of a real dislike for the game (plus Before the Storm) and the characters. However, I threw them in mostly because of Hitomi. I did not want her to be lonesome at the shop and those two were perfect for it. Plus, I wanted to deliver my own twisted sense of karma. Let's be real, both Chloe and Max are awful characters. Chloe's obvious to why she's awful, but Max is a bit more subtle. Do remember that her choice to save Chloe got everyone in the town (innocent lives) killed. Yes, the sequel retcons this by saying David and Victoria live (which doesn't help, they're still orphaned with no home to go back to). I'll gladly did suggestion on what to put Chloe though. Yes, she'll be in the maid costume.)
(A/N2a: So, what's next for Taeko? Well, for Zuzu, there is still things he can did. But I want to put it to a vote amongst you readers. I have two options for what can be done this week.)
Option A: Chain quest on dealing with some of Misty's old associates that were not associated with a gang. Quest plotline would be aiding some while Misty partly functions as mission control. The chain quest would consist of four smaller quests to be done over the course of the week. There will be crossover characters, and the final quest's reward will be a complete asset.
Option B: Chain quest on doing jobs for Nichols Ark. Quest plotline would be doing the underhanded work that Nichols begrudgingly needs done. The chain quest would consist of four smaller quests to be done over the course of the week. The final quest's reward would be a share in the company.
(A/N2b: Regardless of what it is picked, it will be split between the antics of the farm. So, these chapters of the last week will be long. And regardless of what it is picked, I could the option that was not picked in another season (Fall or Winter).)
(A/N3: And as for Pelican Town, I will get into the swing of things. We will return to the Mines with the goal to the 30th floor, we develop some characters, and we build for the end of this fic. Let's go out with a style. Chapters 21 [Grand Theft Zuzu] and 27 [Super Long Sunday] have been edited for errors.)