The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 31 – Shadows of Springtime [Part 1]
Wednesday, the 24th of Spring, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
[LOAD GAME]
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[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]
Leah had cooked him and his pets some breakfast and brought it over. For Taeko, that was a relief and Leah wanted an update on things.
"So, you managed to get your hands on locations on drug and cash stashes for the Purple Dragons and another criminal. That…may be a good thing if you divide it along your members. If anything, it would make for good incentive. Here's what I suggest, give these out to our crew and have them make the raids. Ask for a 25% cut and let them keep the rest. 10% for you and the 15% to go to company expenses." Leah remarked as they ate.
"Considering the one I managed to find had 750k, we'll be rolling with cash." Taeko said finishing his meal. "However, I want to keep all this on down low. Right now, the Purple Dragons I'm leaving alone to deal with what Misty wants of me. So, keep this secret."
"Mhm, and about your offer. I'll take it up. While I do like working on my art at home…my place is getting cluttered. Plus, with your connections, I'm sure people need décor. I can expand my own business and finally get some needed things at home." Leah said thoughtfully. "I did want to live the simple life in the country, but…I realize I may have been mostly scraping by until you came along."
"Pass by the office and talk to Velma about getting an apartment and the studio. How much do you need from me to set this all up?" Taeko said willing to give a down payment. "I have to spend money to make it."
"I'd need to look at the state of the store, but I'll need 300,000 gold at the least. Cash for rebuilding, cleaning up, getting the need equipment, and a few furnishings for it and the apartment. I may also need employees." She mused as Taeko handed her the cash.
"I got subordinates you can use until you get your own employees." Taeko said. "Now you should go, I need to make a call and you got a lot to do today."
Leah took the cash and left as Taeko dialed up Misty.
[Cue GTAZ BGM [Theme of Misty] | TreyLouD – Eastside Story (Spongebob Beat)]
"What's the status?" Misty asked. "And good morning to you. Grataton's a real nice and quiet place to live, you know? I see why your sister is so protective of the place."
"Hikari's like that. But I got your status, Ryan trust me, but Myne hates me. I also got some information off of them from a source that was close to them before he died." Taeko said before telling her about some of the juicy bits.
Misty was quiet before responding.
"This makes way too make sense. You don't know this, but the twins used to rule Sao Paradiso in the prostitution game, but they screwed up. They tried to blackmail a Joja employee, upper level staffer. Regardless, Joja did not take too kindly, and they utterly wrecked them so bad…they had to flee to the outskirts of Zuzu." Misty said.
"I'm not surprised. Myne is stupid enough to try and piss off Joja." Taeko said with a laugh. "Though why didn't Joja just kill them?"
"Simple, they managed to destroy the evidence. I don't know if the twins have a backup of it and they're just consolidating power and biding time before they strike now, but I am just guessing at this point." Misty wistfully remarked.
"Ok, I just need one more. About Marty Jake Williams, just wanted to check to see if he's as scummy as the same guy from the GTA games. Considering about to the information is a damn close mirror to him." Taeko said looking at a file.
Misty snorted.
"Yeah, he is pretty much like him. Even got a woman practically his Louise. I know the prick, he leads the 'Red County Gang', specializing in meth and bootlegging. I had him as a client once…it's the one job I'm ashamed of. He did me right in front of his wife, and she was not into it at all. There was just this look of defeat and shame on her face that just spoiled the moment. I could fake it, but even she knew that I was not enjoying any of it either. But the second time, he tried to hire was to take the virginity of his nephew…who was underage. He wanted me to make him a 'real man'. I flat out told him to piss off…and I fully allied with the Triads as an informant. Mostly to protect myself from trailer park trash." Misty expounded.
"From the data that cop collected, the twins don't like him either. Though they prefer dealing with his underboss, Tiffany "Pennsatucky" Doggett." Taeko mused while thinking about how much sense that made.
"His underboss is a woman? With how racist and sexist he acted, that's a shock. So, either this chick is either his secondary squeeze or she's way too good at gangbangin' for him to ignore." Misty remarked.
"Or alternatively, she may have influence and him keeping her as underboss is basically to keep her under his thumb." Taeko said thinking out loud. "Either way, I still have the hard drive to crack. But that's for later. I got the day ahead of me."
"Call me around four, I may have something for you to do." Misty said.
"Cool. See ya. And say hi to the sisters for me." Taeko said hanging up.
[BGM Music Ends, Resume Normal BGM]
Taeko decided to check his mail first. He did not exactly check the mail for yesterday either. What he found was Beli had mailed him his cut of 2000 Gold along with a request for him to see her soon. Velma mailed him 400 Gold, the apartment profits. He found a letter from Angel with a small gift.
[Letter from Angel]
Taeko, I wanted to just let you know that things are going well. Sure, the schooling is basically just me and the minis, but I can at least say my grades are higher than ever. I still miss my grandmother, but I am happy with my new family. I never did have much of a father figure, but you're closest to that. So, I know it's probably cheesy, but I got you a mug. Maybe considering spending more with me?
Sincerely, Angel
The mug was black with a chibi Shenron on it. He promptly put the mug inside, and the game gave him an option he gladly accepted. He really did not want Angel as a VR option, and he was glad it could be hidden as an option.
"Maybe I should spend some time with her." Taeko said to himself as he took out the last letter. "Ugh, an offer for Joja Membership?"
With a flash of energy, he burned that letter to cinders before going inside to ready for the day. After a shower, he settled into the clothes for the day which were the equipped clothes as he wanted to go to the mines today. Logan and Tom were raring to go as Taeko got his gear together. Aside from his swords at his knife, he did take the [Crystal Gem Apples] , [Magnetic Field Generator Mk.2], and the [Knives] along the FusionFall recon rifle and pistol. Along with a few healing items, he was ready. He downed a coffee and he and his pets went out the door.
First thing first was the crops to which thanks to the update, he could easily bring up a status screen to better see the growth process. He did not have to walk around the crops to see, but he still had to still water them.
"Ok, what's the recipe for the [Quality Sprinkler]? Iron, gold, and refined quartz? Shit, I'll have to transmute all my [Copper Bars] and use my only [Iron Bar].
Cost him his 5 bars of [Refined Quartz] too, but he had one which he found down in the center of the crops to save him some trouble. He simply used the [Farmland Status] window to list what was ready to be taken and he netted himself six [Unmilled Rice], one [Green Bean], five [Kale (Silver Quality)], seven [Spring Onions], four [Ancient Fruits], and ten [Coffee Beans] racking up experience points for [Farming]. He also snagged the six jars of [Maple Syrup] and the three jars of [Blue Jazz Honey].
"Man, I am racking it up." Taeko mused to himself. "Let me get the wines."
He packaged the six bottles of win for Chen's shop being putting them by the Bus Stop for pickup. Chen transmitted the money, but it was sent to the company account. Velma did mean it when she said she was forwarding the bills. As for the rest, twelve bottles of Shadowy Desire's [Cherry Wine] and [Cherry Jam] jars. As easy as it would be sell the wines, he decided on stocking some for [Desired Myth]. He used some wood to craft a [Chest] in the shed just for storing wine for the bar to be. All twelve went in. As for what was going into the [Kegs], two [Ancient Fruits], the last two [Oranges], four [Strawberries], and four [Blueberries]. He checked the coop looking at the [Status] for it.
[Chicken – Reiju – Heart Rating: 5/5 – Taeko's first chicken. She's spunky and likes the outdoors in the daytime. (At five hearts, she will now lay Large Brown Eggs)]
[Chicken – Rei – Heart Rating: 5/5 – Taeko's second chicken. She's quiet and is a bit owlish in the daytime. (At five hearts, she will now lay Large White Eggs)]
[Chicken – Rojo – Heart Rating: 5/5 – Taeko's third chicken. She's mischievous and likes pecking strangers in the outdoors in the daytime. (At five hearts, she will now lay Large Brown Eggs)]
[Dinosaur – Moshi – Heart Rating: 3/5 – Taeko's first dinosaur. Wants to just lay out in the sun and sleep deep in the night.]
The [Duck Egg] hatched leading to a new addition that Taeko named.
[Duck – Shirley – Heart Rating: 0/5 – Taeko's first duck. Will lay about and stare into the sky lost in her own little world.]
He got the feeders cleared and filled before collected a dozen [Large Brown Eggs] and half a dozen [Large White Eggs]. He sensed San was in the area and went out to see her. Aside from her hair and markings, she looked like a normal member of society.
"San, what's up?" Taeko said as San looked a bit sad.
"My pack is prepping to leave the woods here to migrate…" San said quietly before he hugged her. "I know…just being human is hard."
"You're getting there, plus I'm here." Taeko mused. "Though I've been busy."
"Tell me. I got time." San said as they went into the Farm Cave.
Taeko would tell her a bit about the city and what he was up to. San saw it as him having his pack and took up an interest. San was taking up a few of the [Pomegranates], but Taeko was more concerned with the three [Purple Mushrooms] he found.
"Taeko, would it be okay to join your pack?" San asked. "I work best in one."
"San…I could use your help, but if you are going to need paperwork, an ID, stuff like that. I'd have to investigate your origins…find your bio parents." Taeko said as a side quest came up.
[San Story Mission: Origins]
Investigate San's origin to allow her to be truly explore the city in full with no worry.
Objective: Find a method to seek out San's genetical origins.
Get her an ID.
Get her the needed paperwork.
Requirements: There is a no time restriction to this quest, but until the quest is complete: San can't be taken to the city nor leave the Valley.
Quest Reward: 5000g, +Relationship with San Maxes Out, +San will be able to live a bit more independently, +San can join on missions outside of the Valley, ?, ?
[Accept? Y/N]
Taeko accepted the quest.
"Alright, I'll let you in, but I do need you to hang back until I can investigate. I could use a hair from you to search DNA to see if there's a hit. But I can deal with that come the next season. However, you can join me for a dungeon crawls in the Mines." Taeko mused.
"I would, but I want to spend a bit more time with my mother before she leaves." San said. "Mind I keep what I-"
"Go ahead." Taeko mused as she asked for eggs too. "Hm?"
"Rodan's low on eggs and he sent me over to buy from you." San remarked as he just gave her the half a dozen white eggs.
"On the house. Go have breakfast." Taeko insisted as she nodded and left.
As he left the farm cave himself, he remembered something important and frantically called up Max.
"Taeko, what's up?" Max asked.
"The briefcase. I left it in your car." Taeko said tersely. "Please check if you have it because I fear Chloe did something stupid."
"Chloe's not that dumb to open the case that doesn't belong to her…" Max said assuring him.
To which Max was proven wrong when Chloe came back to house after going shopping. Taeko could hear some of the conversation.
"Chloe, where did you get the money to buy that?" Max asked fearfully.
"I found some money in a briefcase in your car…why?" Chloe said as even Taeko could hear the facepalm.
"Max, put me on speaker. Now." Taeko said as Max did so. "Chloe, that briefcase did not belong to you or Max. In was mine…and I pray that you didn't take or sell anything else in there of value. So, here's what you are going to do…you're going to come to Shadow Farm with the receipts of what you bought. And I want you both here in less than ten minutes. Bye."
Taeko hung up on them before texting Abigail.
"Yo. I'm going to be a bit delayed on our mine crawl. One of the subordinates did something really stupid and I have to deal with that mess." Taeko texted.
"It's all good. At gyno appointment in the city, be back by lunch." Abigail texted with a few emojis.
Taeko put his phone away as he could hear Chloe's truck and Max's car roll up. He walked up to see Max present him the briefcase and Chloe looking a bit guilty.
"Now…Mr. Maelstrom, I didn't know…" Chloe said trying to appease only to be silenced.
Inside the briefcase was a meager three bags of [Acid]. He asked Chloe if there was anything else.
"5,000 Gold…and a dozen bags of [Coke]. I sold that to pay off a debt to a dealer…" Chloe said as Taeko closed the case.
"And that dealer are affiliated with who…" Taeko asked.
"It was a Korean gang…I thought they were with the Triads." Chloe said nervously.
Taeko sighed as Chloe realized she was completely wrong
"If I was angrier, I would have simply smacked your face with this briefcase, and if I was not a decent person, I would have shot you after I did it. But, this is my fault for thinking I could leave something like that behind. As for you, I'm going to have to simply cut your allowance, dock your pay, and remove your vacation days." Taeko said calmed as Chloe's eyes went wide.
"I have vacation days?" She exclaimed.
"Not anymore you don't." Taeko said giving her a bucket. "And I'm going to make you work on the farm. Max can enjoy her vacation time without you."
"Why are you spoiling Max so much? Is she sucking you off or something?" Chloe asked as Max was fuming.
While she had done favors for him, yes, she was still doing her job. And Chloe had the nerve to just say she was just putting out for favors…ignoring that she actually had to work. Max had enough.
"He's not spoiling me. I've been literally doing my job and helping out when he needs me to. And I've been cleaning up YOUR messes, Chloe! We wouldn't be in this mess if not for you…"
Taeko stopped her.
"Maxine, that's enough. Clearly, you have made your case. So, I have considering upping you to get actual rank within the Shadow Yakuza." Taeko said as Chloe balked. "I will discuss this with my assistant and Shatei-Gashiras before making a decision."
Max looked floored and beyond excited. Getting out of the debt of the group would give her a chance to at least crave out something of a decent life. Sure, she'd be a yakuza member, but not one slaved to debt. She politely bowed thanking him.
"And as for you Chloe…." Taeko said before smacking her with the briefcase. "You are on very thin ice with me right now. If I didn't have half as much patience as any other mob boss, I would have just killed you. But do you know why I don't want to do that?"
"Max…" Chloe said weakly.
"Exactly. So, I'm going to give you a job to forgive spending that gold, one that if you screw this up, I'm going to have two choice but to fire you, and I'll have Max give you your resignation." Taeko said icily dropping the briefcase in her lap. "You're going to locate the dealer you sold those drugs to, you are going to kill the dealer so you can take the drugs and cash on them, and you'll deliver it to headquarters. And you only have until the end of afternoon. You decide to run, I'll deal with you personally…and you'll wish Max was the one to fire you. Understood?"
"Yes, sir." Chloe said scrambling up before taking the briefcase with her.
She hopped in her truck and drove away frantic.
"I'd say that was overkill, but…I can't even be upset." Max said shaking her head. "Did you really mean what you said about…"
"Getting you up to being a subordinate? Yes. The threat to Chloe, also yes. Frankly, I tire of her. I didn't kill her the first time, but you were the reason I didn't. If I had, you probably would have wanted to kill me for it and then I'd have to kill you too." Taeko said quietly. "But…my patience has limits."
"Look, I understand. I do have a bit of faith that Chloe will succeed. Can I at least help her?" Max said. "Yeah, I know…I'm pissed at her too, but I don't want her dead."
"Frankly, that makes you a strong person…or co-dependent on her. Honestly, I'm not one to judge." Taeko said. "You're dismissed."
Max took her leave as he called Mendoza.
"Morning, Mendoza. I got a proposition for you. I have a deal with a grocery with the Chen family to sell Shadowy Desire wines. Now, I happen to make other products aside from wine and I figured maybe you would have an interest in selling. …. What I produce? I run a farm…I make and grow products. Tell you what, I'll give you a sample bin…something for you to try yourself. Eh? Where's the farm? I'm based out in the Valley. Stardew."
"Wait, you mean that hick town…"
"Yes, and don't call it a hick town. My grandfather lived his life proud and true."
She would come over and came out to see him practicing a few kata.
"I didn't even think that the big kumicho was a farmer." Gloria said as Taeko took a breath.
"In all fairness, I started as a farmer before getting involved in the city and it's ganglands. Literally, it's been less than a season since I started the farm, even less since I became a gang leader. I used to be a corporate monkey for Joja for years." Taeko said as Gloria's eye twitched. "What?"
"I'm sorry, but I have a hard time living with the fact that I put down by some young buck who managed to climb to power and have an easier time than me doing so." Gloria said flustered.
"Actually, it was not that easy. I did have to kill a bunch of people even before the farm and this. Joja used me as a bargaining chip and I ended up in Souamil….that crime-ridden city in East Asia. I ended up there because of those corporate pricks…it made me strong and give me a drive to survive." Taeko said with an air of seriousness.
"I can respect that. But about those products." Gloria said as she was given a jar of [Cherry Jam].
"Fresh from this morning." Taeko said before explaining a bit of what he grew and made.
She decided to buy the [Kale] he grew off him to which Taeko sold it to her for regular price, instead of the silver quality price. Taeko had told her of potentially investing in securing products to sell and a few methods.
"While I do want to take up your offer on jams, wines, and honey, I need a bit more time before I procure the funds to get those means for you to get myself 'exclusive'." Gloria mused. "I'll buy any honey and jams you got though."
1,230 Gold richer, he handed the jellies and honey jars over saying the first one he gave her was on the house.
"For what's it worth, annoyed as I am. You are a decent boss." Gloria said loading up her car.
"One last thing, I'm going to be holding a meeting soon over the meeting of those in debt. The mousy girl that hangs around the blue-haired idiot. I want to consider forgiving her hand in her idiot friend's debt and up her to subordinate." Taeko said thoughtfully. "I'll have the meet after the mine crawl. So in the late afternoon…"
"Sure, I'll be ready." Gloria said before driving away.
Taeko checked the time seeing it was about 10:30 and moved to the selling bin tossing in the [Green Bean], all of the [Unmilled Rice] he grew, the half dozen of [Maple Syrup], and the carton of [Large Brown Eggs] before closing it. He chucked the [Spring Onions] and [Ancient Fruits] in the fridge before using Chen's kegs to make two cups of [Coffee]. He smirked that the product came in the style of a Starbucks cup just done up with his logo. The rest of the beans went into storage before he headed into town with Logan by his side.
He wandered about not really having an idea of who to see at the moment only to bump into Pam.
"Taeko? Good, I wanted to call, but seeing you're here. I need to take tomorrow off…I got a doctor's…" Pam said as Taeko nodded and moved along. "Oh, okay. Thanks."
"Yeah, no problem." Taeko remarked before thinking, "Weirdly, the calendar also marks days when people go to Harvey's for a checkup. Speaking of which, I may as well go for a check up. I got time."
He entered the clinic signing in for a check up to which Harvey was more than happy to give.
"Well, you're certainly healthy. I'd say take it easy on the combat, but it's like your muscles have adjusted for it." Harvey said as Maru was giving him the side-eye.
The checkup went smoothly, but Taeko had to pay the full 500 for the checkup. He shrugged that off as no big issue, paid, and left. He sensed Abigail and came over to greet.
"I'm back, and don't worry…clean bill of health." Abigail said play punching Taeko's shoulder. "You ready?"
"More than ready." Taeko said giving her a [Coffee] before drinking his.
"Alright, let me just change into the new clothes I got." Abigail said. "I'll meet you at the entrance."
Abigail would arrive at the entrance of the cave in an [Lilac Tunic (Girls)], a pair of [Frosted Shorts (Girls)], [Underfist Boots] for her feet, a pair of [Ultrasonic Drill] pistols on her sides along with Espada, and a backpack.
Taeko was already in his equipped clothes only having the addition of the [Albedo Jacket]. The two ahead in taking the elevator down to the secret spring before going down to the next floor. They hastily found the staircase to get to continuing the trek.
[Floor 26]
The duo casually tore through several [Duggy] with their sworn swords while collecting the loot. Taeko was glad for the three dozen [Coal] he collected. Taeko stomped down on one before Logan tore its neck before eating it and the [Yam] it had.
"I found some [Quartz]." Abigail said spying a dozen.
They each took off with Taeko intending to use them to make some refined ones later. Taeko shattered rocks with pickaxe to collect more materials. Logan barked calling for his master, and the two walked to see a hole. The duo looked at each other and came to a decision. Taeko held Logan as he and Abigail jumped down the hole.
[Floor 29]
What they landed on a floor with a mini-boss, one in the mood for avenging Diablo Del Duggy and just as big.
[Mini Boss – Monolith Crab – A rock crab aged and mutated by the environment. As big of as a minivan, it's rocky shell is made of enough various minerals that give it the appearance of spikes. Unlike it's underlings, this crab doesn't hide preferring to use it's shell to tank hits before dishing them out with either it's claws or it's shell. Stats: HP (5000) / Damage (70-?) / Defense (10) / Speed (5) / EXP Given (400) / Drops: Yes]
[Cue Boss BGM: Metroid Fusion OST – Vs. B.O.X.]
"Well, he's in the way of the way down." Taeko said as the crab scuttled towards them. "Move!"
The three scattered in different directions.
"Logan, [Howl] and ready yourself!" Taeko said as Logan let out one before growing red for a second.
Logan used [Dig] to dive into the ground leaving for the [Monolith Crab] to go after Abigail.
"Firaga!" Abigail said channeling magic as a pillar of flame erupted under the crab.
Whipping out the pistols, she shot the crab in the eyes before rolling out of the way from a swipe of its claw.
"Damn, Abby! You ain't playing!" Taeko said excitedly.
"I'm making my way." Abigail said as Taeko checked the [Status].
[Monolith Crab's Current HP: 4500/5000 | Debuffs: Debuff: Burning (-1/16 HP for three minutes), Blinded (Can't physically see anything for two minutes)]
And then Logan lunged out the hole tackling him, but the defense cut down the damage.
[M. Crab's Current HP: 4444/5000]
"That's it. I need to cut the defense." Taeko thought before calling out to Abigail shouting, "Can you try to poison it?"
"I'll give it a shot!" Abigail said readying herself.
The crab smashed into walls rattling the cave getting rocks and other objects falling on their heads. Taeko slashed through a few rocks which netted him a few items to which he used the baker's dozen of [Cherry Bombs] to chuck at the shell in hopes of cracking the armor. Even if the bombs did only 10 points of damage…there was no crack.
"Poisona!" Abigail said as her hands glowed purple.
Green bubbles came up on the giant crab only for it to get a lucky hit in Abigail…breaking her concentration. Taeko unleashed readying a new attack.
"[Nitoryu Iai…..]" Taeko said before drawing breath.
In a rush blazing with flame and electricity, he unleashed [Gunshin] and [Raikiri] before slashing the [Monolith Crab] before yelling, "[…Rashomon!]" A deep crack resonated appearing on the crab's shell and drawing the creature's blood.
[Critical Hit!]
[M. Crab's Current HP: 3100/5000]
The [Burning] debuff had faded and so did the [Blinded] one as the crab roared in anger over its precious shell being damaged. It turned its attention to him only to for Logan to go for it using [Iron Jaws] down on the creature's eye stalk tearing it off.
[Critical bypass! Your pet's [Wisdom] nets it a critical hit!]
[M. Crab's Current HP: 2473/5000]
With one eye gone, the crab was half-blinded. Abigail called for Firaga using it on the blade of Espada causing the flames turn purple as she took out the crab's other eye blinding it permanently. Half of it's HP was left, and Taeko decided he had to finish this prick.
"Abigail, ready yourself!" Taeko said pooling energy into his finger.
As Abigail did the same, Taeko called out, "[Emperor's Death Beam!]"
Taeko lashed the crab with the [Chaotic Dead End] before lambasting it with a barrage of [Death Beams] from both of them putting the great crab full of holes spraying its blood all over the cave walls.
[Boss BGM Ends]
[Mine Brown Earth Floors BGM Unlocked: Kirby & The Amazing Mirror OST - Area 03 Cabbage Cavern]
[You defeated "Monolith Crab"! 10 Prismatic Shards and 100 Crabs added to your Inventory! Logan gets 400 EXP! Logan Leveled from 15 - 18, with 15 points to spend! Explore the floor to find its treasure and the exit out!]
"Shit…that had to be overkill." Taeko said panting considering he drained his [Energy].
Powering up slightly kept him from complete exhaustion before he tossed Abigail an [Energy Tonic] before chugging one on himself along with a victory slice of [Pizza]. Taeko walked up to the corpse before taking a closer look at the shell.
"What do you think Gunther or anyone will say when we drag this thing into town?" Taeko said as Abigail laughed.
"That's rich. Let's see if we can find a den." Abigail said as he joined her.
Logan stayed to play 'Guard Dog'. The floor was rather empty.
"I'm glad I was more help…that I'm coming on my own. You just came into my life and I'm going this now. Just yesterday I would have lounging around, but I'm happier now." Abigail said warmly. "I just want you to know how special you are to me."
Taeko gently pulled her close to his side nuzzling her head just letting the moment sink in.
"I know, you're just as special to me too." Taeko said to her. "For all that's happened, I'm just happy to have friends and loved ones…and do something with my life that I enjoy. Me and you in the Mines are the highlights. You grew into a strong warrior…and I'm happy that I gave you the push."
A hug that bloomed into a kiss. Abigail had felt like it was just them in that moment.
"Talk about a whirlwind romance." Abigail said as he brushed her hair past her hair.
"Warriors aren't one for traditional romance…neither are martial artists." Taeko said before they broke away.
"For what's it worth, I wouldn't have any other way. Besides, what other girl you know is capable like me?" Abigail said confidently. "At least one who handle a sword."
"Nope. Leah wasn't one for swords. She prefers a kanabo actually." Taeko said surprising Abigail.
They found the nest and Taeko's jaw hung. The crab was hoarding a lot of stuff. The gold was not Taeko's real concern. When you already had more than 2 million gold…a quarter of a million gold is not a big deal. No, it was the other stuff.
[Item – Golden Coconut – This is one tough nut to crack, but a professional might be able to break it open. These are usually found on Ginger Island.]
Ten. There were ten of those. There were two casks and inside he found 200 each of [Bananas] and [Mangoes]. In the area was a hole that showed a pool of water which upon a closer look seeming to be waterway out to sea. There was even a pile of [Copper Ore] , [Iron Ore] and [Diamonds]. Also…a lot of [Crabs]…500 just all over the place. Even the last Dwarf Scroll Taeko needed.
"Ok, so I want everything except the money. What do I have to do to convince you to just take the money?" Taeko asked.
"I want a car, and I want you…right now." Abigail said with a teasing grin. "No better time to finish what we started in the spring. And I got a kinky idea."
Her idea was to do it on the corpse of the crab to which Taeko was surprisingly down for it. With her back on the monster, she rolled her tunic as Taeko landed gentle kisses on her abs go up considering the sweat on her before he was yanking out her shorts to her sports thong. He peeled that down before fingering the inside.
"Taeko, don't you dare tease me. We got a job to do as adventurers." Abigail said partly serious. "We've done enough teasing, just shove it in…."
She got slammed by him. After she wanted him to shove it in, and Abigail handled it. Abigail moaned, feeling herself getting stretched out as she felt the cock go inside. She was glad she had lost the hymen while fighting monsters an earlier day. With her back on the monster's shell, she wrapped her legs around his waist, and he pumped at her like a piston. For Abigail, this was something she had longing for a while. Taeko was the same…but he did feel a bit dirty about doing this to a pupil.
"That's it…right there. Sensei…" She breathed out.
That got him to go faster and roughly pull her a heated kiss with their tongues dancing around each other. He moved down to her neck as he kept up the thrusting leaving Abigail mewling for more. His hands on her waist as he went in and out of her. The sound of sleeping flesh and the smell of sweat and sex hung in the air around them. They left bites and maybe a scratch or two on each other.
"I want it…I want you to cu-MMMMHPPH!" Abigail said before being cut off by own orgasm causing her walls to clamp down on him. "Shit!"
Taeko was silent in letting a soundless groan as his climax soaking her insides with white. His hip bucked and they swore they caused another crack in the shell. Abigail freed him from her grip as he pulled out with fluids pouring out. Both were in shaky legs.
"Taeko, don't worry about the cum. Birth control." Abigail said panting. "I picked some up at JojaMart before coming."
"Not their generic brand…I can tell you from experience that crap barely works." Taeko said as she got tissues out of her bag to give to him to clean up.
"No, I wouldn't cheap out on that." Abigail said chuckling. "I'm not ready to be a mom just yet. I have plenty to do before then. I want to be a master swordswoman before then."
"Thinking of the future already?" Taeko teased. "I'd think you'd made a great mom in the future."
"Maybe with you being their father…" Abigail said wrapping her arms around his neck.
"Love you too, Abs." Taeko said as she nuzzled him.
"Love you too, Taeko." Abigail said in a whisper.
[You have banged Abigail! Swordman's Soul perk unlocked! New hats can be purchased from the Hat Mouse!]
[Swordman's Soul - Abigail lends you support! It is now easier to learn and teach sword techniques via observation or getting lessons. Regular attacks using a sword will not take up energy, and energy sword attacks' cost is halved.]
[Your romantic ravishing upped your relationship with Abigail. You're at 8 hearts, a heart scene is available. Be on the lookout for it. You have gotten all your love interests at 8 Eight Hearts, the heart cap is increased to ten.]
Taeko collected the loot and even the [Stones] leaving Abigail the quarter million gold. Abigail went back to drag the [Monolith Crab] through the elevator while Taeko went down to the next floor.
[Floor 30]
The ground and walls were a dull greyish-brown as the elevator lit up. The floor itself was empty, but that was a relief. He wiped the sweat off his brow before going up the elevator.
[Ground Floor]
The two warriors exited the cave hand in hand with the trusty Logan following and dragging the corpse of the giant crab. Reactions were priceless when they arrived in town. Mewls of cuteness at the couple, only to turn to straight horror at the beast they hauled in.
"Sweet San Andreas, what is that thing?!" Lewis said mortified.
"That is so cool! Did you kill it?!" Angel said excitedly.
"Why yes, Angel. We did." Taeko said confidently. "It's a [Monolith Crab], the head monster of the [Rock Crabs]. We ended up in it's nest and we wanted to live."
"You cut off its eyes?" Vincent said stunned. "That's…"
"Pretty metal if you ask me." Jas said surprising a few townsfolk.
"I noticed a trial of blood!" Marlon said storming into town with his blade in hand. "What ha-Oh."
Gil snickered before laughing at the sight.
"I haven't seen one of these in ages. They're usually from Ginger Island." Marlon said.
"There was a hole in the den full of water…looked like it led out to sea." Taeko explained.
"Regardless, you did a number on the shell. It doesn't look as hard as the ones from that island. But it's still impressive that you did it with only having bruises, scratches, and a bout of sweat." Gil said.
"Yeah, we got these from the monsters all right." Abigail said. "Totally."
Penny whiffed the air.
"You also smell of him." Penny thought. "I guess I'm the last one."
Her vamp side would be suggesting to do for it, but Penny found her nerve. She wanted to wait until she was ready.
"Besides, he's got plenty to distract himself with…before I take him…and some of his blood." Penny thought as her cheeks flushed.
Her fangs were becoming visible as her body got hot.
"Miss Penny…your face is red….along with your eyes?" Angel asked as Penny immediately realized she was in public.
"Um…it's just the heat getting to me. Angel, be a dear and take the little ones to the Saloon for lunch. I need to um…clean myself up." Penny said running for home.
Angel shrugged and just did as told.
Marlon and Demetrius did haul off the corpse stating they would take it to the Guild to examine it before getting them a finder's fee for it.
"Hey, Taeko. There's something I do want you to get for me, but I'll text you it." Abigail said bidding goodbye. "I need to deal with the winnings."
Taeko waved her off before going to see Gunther as he slammed [Dwarf Scroll II] on the counter. Gunther handed him a book which the Game absorbed it with blue flames before dissipating.
[New Perk Unlocked: Dwarfish Dialogue – You can now speak and understand Dwarfish languages. For convenience, you'll automatically be able to swap in and out of doing so on a dime.]
Kyu used the Game to give him a small hint that a Dwarf lived on the ground floor of the mines, and was added to his [Friends] list.
"I'll visit after I offload." Taeko said going to see Gus and Cosette.
He ironically discovered that getting all those [Crabs] pooled into his Fishing XP allowing that to level up.
[Your Fishing Skill has risen to Level 6! [Spinner] crafting recipe unlocked! [Trap Bobber] unlocked! Ultimate fishing rod can be obtained from Willy's Fish Shop along with new items started from tomorrow.]
He closed the window and chatted up Gus.
"So many crabs. And that beast was just hoarding them…well I'd be willing to buy 100 of them to make a [Crab Cake] special along with [Maki Rolls]. How much?" Gus asked.
"12,500 Gold." Taeko said. "But tell you what…I'll knock down the price for lunch for me and Logan. 12k flat."
Logan and Taeko were happily having [Pepper Poppers] while Taeko was guzzling several [Joja Cola].
"Yeesh, I still don't get how you can drink that crap." Pam said as people were giving her looks. "What?"
"Oh, it's no-Wait, aren't you supposed to be at work?" Taeko asked.
"No, I had to call for today and tomorrow off. Medical appointment." Pam said.
"Oh, well...have fun with that." Taeko said before thinking, "Try not to go to Harvey drunk."
After lunch, Taeko sent Logan home before visiting the Umbra sisters. Haley was inside reading as Emily was meditating.
"Hey." Taeko said.
"You looked roughed up, what happened?" Haley asked.
"I fought a monster crab. Like big as a minivan." Taeko said.
"Quite the sight." Emily said.
"Anyway, I made quite the haul." Taeko said as Haley sprang up excited. "I would have your help in off-loading some of it, Haley."
"Haley, I'm glad you're working for your money now." Emily said. "Thank you for that Taeko."
Taeko felt a little dirty earning [+30 Friendship Points] as he left with her. Then again, it was not his place to say Haley was offering her 'company' for stuff.
"So, I noticed some bruises looked more like the telltale signs of sex. Not really going to ask, but did you really fight that monster?" Haley asked.
"I did. I just banged on top of it's corpse after." Taeko said as Haley balked.
"That was both gross…and rather savage." Haley said as they arrived at the farm. "Explains the sweat and the smell. You need a bath…and I'd be willing take it with you for a half of dozen [Diamonds]."
Taeko agreed and he certainly made her work for those while they were in the shower. The tonguing he got on his shaft while in there was the highlight.
"You didn't have to cum in my face…good thing we're in the shower." Haley said getting up to wash her hair.
She can bite her lip feeling the length rubbing on her.
"Oh no, I'm not ready for that just yet." Haley said wigging her rear on it.
They finished their shower as Taeko paid up the six [Diamonds].
"I do at least have to make it look like you did something. So, here's what I want you to…take these four [Mangoes] to the shed outside and put them in the jam making jars." Taeko said handing those over.
"You have those now?" Haley said surprised. "Not really a fan of these, but whatever."
She went ahead to deal with the task after getting dressed. Taeko put on fresh clothes while his equipped clothes were in the [Game] getting signed. He checked the closet to notice a box. He opened it to see it was a care package from Xander which added clothes to his closet. Namely most of the Level 0 and 1 FusionFall gear (namely the shirts, pants, and shoes). Sure, there were no real bonuses, they were basic, and it was clearly only the common stuff, but it was still cool to have. He donned a [Basic Zigzag Shirt] under a [Basic Engineer Buckle Tab Jacket (Boys)], a pair of [Basic Engineer Pants (Boys)], and the [Basic Engineer Loafers (Boys)].
He walked out to see Haley leaving bidding him goodbye. He went to selling bin deciding to sell 20 of those [Diamonds]. Thanks to the dungeon crawl, he had enough to make 16 [Furnaces] which he put in the shed. Eight of those went to making [Iron Bars], another four [Refined Quartzes], and the last one went to make a [Copper Bar]. He went into the house to unload the rest of the spoils…well most of them. The 500 [Crabs] he tossed in the [Selling Bin] as he did not want it. He moved to collecting the [Blue Jazz Honey] before collecting the wine which into the shed's chest before he decided to fill the next set. This time using the honey to put in the [Kegs] to make [Mead]. He shoved all the fruit he got in the fridge save for four [Mangoes] and [Bananas] to go in the [Kegs]. With one empty, he shoved another jar of honey from the fridge and made the note to use those in the fridge for making [Mead]. He put three [Large Brown Eggs] from the fridge also in the [Mayo Makers]…before looking to the [Kegs] for Chen…he'd put all the [Honey] he had in the fridge, and three [Cherries]. Of course, all the booze was going towards the shed's chest. He left pleased with himself before getting that text from Abigail which triggered a small quest…getting her a car. He accepted it seeing it had to be done before nighttime.
He called Velma.
"Hey, V. How's things?" Taeko asked. "Good, so she completed the job. Yes, she and Max are on threads now."
"Now, you can move to make a cuckquean out of Chloe." Velma said.
"Ironic, she accused Max of sucking me off to get my favor." Taeko said. "So, any suggestions?"
"I already called the underbosses to discuss her promotion and they approve. If I may make a suggestion, separating them for a while may work in your favor. Max will be eager to prove her loyalty to you and Chloe will become desperate to have Max back living with her." Velma said. "May I?"
"Go ahead. Have Max move to the apartments, tell her to get her own space." Taeko mused. "But I need you to do something for me. I need to acquire a car for a friend, something a bit sporty. Paint it a bluish-purple, and I'll pay you for the job."
"Ok to just steal it and get it resprayed?" Velma asked dryly.
"If it's easier, yes. Come by the Valley, I'll be ready to go back into the city. So I'll drop you back." Taeko said.
"On it." Velma said before hanging up.
He went to see Leah at her home. She was jovial to have her own studio and explained she was soon to open her studio.
"I noticed you wanted to move Max up to subordinate. This wouldn't happen be to just a way to punish Chloe, is it?" Leah asked.
"No, Max is competent. She's a hard worker, and all considering…she has a passion for photography. Maybe you could hire her as staff for your studio." Taeko proposed.
"I'll do it, but you have to keep Chloe away…until she's manageable." Leah said with a wink.
"Consider it done. How long until you open?" He asked her.
"Friday."
Taeko thanked her and left to ready himself. The [Combat Pistols], [Carbine Rifle], and the [Raze Suit] were in the [Inventory] along with a few healing items. Next on the list of things to do was to see Clint.
"Taeko. What can I do for you?" Clint asked as Takeo put down the ten [Golden Coconuts] and the four [Geodes] on the corner.
"I would like to these coconuts opened, please. And I'll pay in [Geodes] seeing that one is worth 50 gold. While I'd still owe you 50 gold, the inside of those things much have something of value." Taeko said smoothly as Clint cracked one. "See? [Malachite]."
"Well, I'll accept this…for now. But next time, gold." Clint said as he broke open the rest for Taeko.
[You've obtained a [Banana Sapling], a [Mango Sapling], 15 [Pineapple Seeds], and 5 [Mahogany Seeds].]
"Thanks, Clint!" Taeko said leaving with his loot.
"Man, what a weirdo." Clint said rolling his eyes.
Taeko got to work planting those [Mahogany Seeds] on the farm to get trees for [Hardwood] before swinging back to Pierre's. The Belmont was in a bit of a jam themselves. Namely, Caroline was trying not to admit that Abigail's job was paying well.
"Say it." Abigail said.
"No, it's not a real job." Caroline said.
"Honey, she brought in a quarter of a million gold. Just admit it." Pierre said dryly.
"But why can't just have a normal job?" Caroline said.
"Who's wants to be normal?" Taeko said gregariously as he entered.
"You. Why did you have to be an influence on her?" Caroline said with a sigh.
"Now now, Taeko's my biggest customer. What can I do for you?" Pierre asked.
"I need Speed-Gro…but not the regular. Highest quality you can get me. About 50 boxes." Taeko said putting 50 [Diamonds] on the counter. "I will offer a high price if you can help me because frankly, I can't go asking Joja for help."
"Now, I could ask my suppliers." Pierre said taking up the jewels. "I could get you the stuff…"
10 [Prismatic Shards] clattered on the table.
"By the end of the week." Pierre said flatly. "Thank you for your patronage for your custom order!"
[Friendship with Pierre is now at three hearts! Caroline is still 'mad' at you, so no gains!]
"Pleasure doing business." Taeko said before taking his leave.
"Caroline, I'm pretty sure that man is going to make us rich." Pierre said turning to Abigail. "Just know if you two got something going on…I approve within reason."
Caroline groaned, but she could only sigh. Her daughter was happy with her career and had direction even if Caroline was not the biggest fan.
"Mom, even if you don't like my adventuring job. I do work with Taeko's company, the Stardew Shadow Syndicate, as a specialist." Abigail said wryly.
"You mean that group of vigilantes…oy vey…it's never normal with you." Caroline said.
"Mom, we are a family of mystics and monster slayers. The Belmonts have slain Dracula time and time again among other horrors. Normalcy is and was never an option." Abigail said proudly.
Caroline sadly could not deny that. Taeko walked along the Bus Stop as Velma arrived with the car, a [Manana].
"Among the things that dealer had. 10k gold for the paintjob, rims, and my labor." Velma said as Taeko tossed her the gold. "Here's the keys."
Taeko took them. He walked back into the Belmont house tossing Abigail keys and leaving without a word just letting the moment sink in as the quest was marked complete. He and Velma went to the farmhouse discussing plans for the future.
[GAME PAUSED? WOULD YOU LIKE TO QUICK SAVE?]
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[GAME QUICKSAVED! Hurry back.]
(A/N: Quick saving to make it easier on my part. On an important note, chapters 17, 21-24, and 29 were edited to fix errors. So, now it's only Penny left. Abigail wanting to do it on top of a dead monster is something I figured was clever as no one would question the bruising or the sweaty smell at a glance. Those two sword swingers finally got their romantic moment. As for Penny, she was going to be the last for a reason…her storyline. Plus, considering her character, it'd make much more sense for her to put out at 10 Hearts.
[New Perks]
[Swordman's Soul - Abigail lends you support! It is now easier to learn and teach sword techniques via observation or getting lessons. Regular attacks using a sword will not take up energy, and energy sword attacks' cost is halved.]
[Dwarfish Dialogue – You can now speak and understand Dwarfish languages. For convenience, you'll automatically be able to swap in and out of doing so on a dime.]