The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 32 – Shadows of Springtime [Part 2]
(Still) Wednesday, the 24th of Spring, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
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He tossed the seeds in storage before running out to start up the car peeling out of there with Velma in tow.
"Velma, the status on Max?" He asked.
"I arranged the apartment. You didn't get a bonus for it though." Velma said with a grin. "But she did buy into needing space. While Chloe did complete her job, she did it a bit recklessly. That got on Max's nerves a bit and I just had to offer the apartment for some space."
"Ironic that they're pretty much doing all that to themselves." Taeko said as the radio played soft rock.
"Truly, it is. By the way, Hitomi wishes to spend some time with you…school ended early. She has a task for you. But about the status"
"Yeah. I'm still not on a level to make [Kegs] of my own. Thanks to Maru's perk, I can make craft two items for the price of one. However, I think it's time I put my money to use." Taeko said calling up Robin. "Hey, Mrs. Grant, it's Taeko."
"Taeko, I do want to apologize for the delay in your barn." Robin said humbly.
"Water under the bridge. I just wanted to ask if I can simply pay you directly to up that barn to a [Deluxe Barn] and have it ready by the end of the season. Can we agree on 300,000 Gold?" Taeko said as he and Velma could hear her scream in excitement. "I know the upgrade is less, but I am paying you for extra labor and tips…."
"No, it's ok! I'll be more than ready to start on finishing the barn!" Robin said excitedly.
Taeko pulled over to transfer the funds through his phone. Robin excitedly said she'd get to work and hung up.
"Trust me, worth every gold coin. Demetrius is going to be dragged into helping…" Taeko said with a snicker. "And seeing that Sebastian isn't around, more labor for him."
"Well I hope you have money to add to my pay-" Velma said as Taeko 'spilled' three dozen [Diamonds] in her lap. "Ok, that's 27,000 Gold. That's pleasing to see."
"By the way, what did Chloe managed to get?" Taeko asked.
"She returned the 3 bags of [Downers]. The haul netted 20,000 Gold, 20 Bags of [Cocaine], 10 Bags of [Weed], 4 Bags of [Acid], and the car I gave to Abigail." Velma reported. "Waiting in your office in the safe."
Taeko grinned as he pulled into his office building's garage. He walked into his office collecting the [Downers], [Acid], and the gold. He had no need for those drugs, and he figured he'd sell them to be rid of them. He sauntered only to Hitomi's and was greeted with a hug from her.
"School's soon to be over and I can spend a bit more time with you and the Yakuza." Hitomi said. "I'm pretty bummed I didn't really get to do much."
"In time, Hitomi. Now you said you needed me." Taeko inquired.
"Yes, I do. I want you to recruit a friend of mine for the Yakuza. She's in need of a better living condition and a better job. I wanted to hire her here, but Hendai was being a cheap prick. I've been telling her a bit about what I do now…nothing too revealing. But she thinks I'm high off my ass in weed."
"All right, what's her name and where can I find her?" Taeko asked.
"Charlotte, and she works in a Wallywam burger joint in Verona Beach. If you see a busted up Issi there, she's either working or sleeping in the car." Hitomi said. "Ironic how things work out?"
"Yeah." Taeko said.
"I'd come, but I got finals to prep for." Hitomi said as he left. "Later."
Taeko waved her goodbye as he walked on other to Desired Myth finding cars in the parking lot. Fitting that the cars were gang cars for the Vagos (which he was glad were not real), and he got in the [Peyote] before driving to Wallywam. He pulled into the parking lot next to a beater Issi on the last legs. He got out and walked in to quickly find Charlotte. She was a rather tall and lanky goth with typical telltale signs. Raven hair, black lipstick, and piercings on the ears. Her hair had fringe in the front with odango hair buns. Her dusky dark purple eyes told of a tired person who hated her job. Some rich 'Karen' was busy ranting at Charlotte, but she was not really listening after the second 'you lazy millennial'. Taeko sauntered up to the counter.
"Charlotte, right?" He asked.
"Who wants to know?" She asked.
"A friend of Hitomi's…" Taeko said calmly as she was wide-eyed.
"Holy shit, you're actually real." Charlotte sputtered. "I thought Hitomi was pulling my leg…but…"
The 'Karen' interrupted only for Taeko to have [Raikiri] at her throat cackling with electricity and told her a simple command…to leave. 'Karen' wisely did, and he sheathed his blade.
"Bloody hell, that was awesome." Charlotte said. "But I want to know why you're here."
"Offering you a better paying job for one." Taeko mused. "Ever thought of being a Yakuza member?"
"No, but fuck…I'll take anything over this job." Charlotte said thinking on Hitomi's words about him. "I'm in…and seeing that I'm leaving."
Charlotte tossed the uniform hat aside before jumping over the counter to go outside to her car. Starting it…only caused the thing to finally kick the bucket. She slammed the dashboard before coming out.
"Ok, so…I know you're practically Hitomi's 'sugar daddy', but…" Charlotte said as he stopped her.
"Hitomi already told me about the car. So, I came in a car to give to you. And we can talk at an actual fast-food place." Taeko said pointing to the [Peyote].
It was a bit awkward, but the trunk was stuffed with her things. Charlotte changed in the parking lot to her usual clothes: a black choker, a black tank top that exposes her midriff with the shoulders being mesh, black skirt with an oversized metallic belt, and black combat boots. She threw her uniform in the trash, told her manager to pound size, and drove her new wheels away with her new boss in the other seat.
"So, I just want to confirm some things. Hitomi had a tendency to exaggerate when we'd smoke pot." Charlotte said.
"But tell me about yourself, first." Taeko said.
"I used to go that stuffy prep school. I was a senior when she was starting out. With her, I could be myself. Regardless, shit at home was not good. I ended up being kicked out of the house right after finals. So here I am 19…drifting in the lurch." Charlotte said getting a blunt out to have a smoke. "You?"
"I don't family shit, no I got Joja shit. I used to be a corporate boy for them…I got out after being screwed one too many times and not the fun way. I inherited a farm from gramps in the valley. So, I quit my job, moved out of my shitty apartment, and hauled ass to the valley. And it all led to me forming a business, becoming a monster slayer, and a yakuza boss. And it's only been three weeks." Taeko said as Charlotte's eye twitched.
"But you don't look that much older…" She stammered.
"I'm only a year older then you." Taeko said. "Yeah, but I lucked into some of it. The other half is thanks to Joja being evil dicks. I could tell you some stories."
"I got time." Charlotte said curiously.
"Drive to the Red Gecko's." Taeko said before he told some of his story.
When they got to the Chinese place for food, Charlotte was agape. She knew Joja was scummy, but he painted a picture of them being borderline monstrous. Taeko admitted he was not fighting Joja to be heroism but to get even. They got lunch without incident.
"So, this is what I'm in for. Ok, so currently you got the bookstore, a set of apartments, a desert front store, a beachfront bar, and an art studio. On top of your Shadowy Desire line of products, monster slaying, and being the mob boss. Yeesh, you're a busy one. Where do I fit in?" Charlotte asked as she ate her noodles.
"Well, as I see it. You start as a subordinate. You can cycle through workdays on any of the operations unless I place you to stick at a place. Rare chances I may take you out on a mission. Frankly, I'm considering having you on staff for beachfront bar. Everyone loves goths." Taeko said as she chuckled.
"You tease. It would be nice to have stable work, but I'm a bit more interested in those jobs of yours." Charlotte said with a dangerous grin as Taeko finished his food.
"Eagerness. I like that." Taeko said as Charlotte finished off her meal. "Let's go."
Charlotte got to driving with them heading to Idlewood in search of a dealer before coming to an alley. She had been told to pull over.
"You see that dumpster? It's tagged meaning a gang has hidden weapons in it. Look inside." Taeko said as Charlotte opened it up to find two bags of [Wood] and a [Micro SMG]. "Well damn."
"Shit, if I knew gangs were hiding shit like this, I would have been dumpster diving all the time." Charlotte said cocking her gun. "Don't worry, I can use it. And seeing we're in Idlewood, I know a dealer. That is if he's still here."
Taeko was taken a gas station where Charlotte knocked on the van door and a scruffy blonde Russian came out.
"Bison." Charlotte said.
"Charlotte Crazenda. I thought you were not going to be back in the hood." Bison said. "But it's good to be see you."
"Yeah, well. I got drugs to sell. Four bags of [Acid] and three [Downers]. I don't want them." Taeko said showing them to him.
"Hm…I'll take everything for 3,500?" He offered as Taeko accepted. "A pleasure. I can't trust getting my drugs from Purple Dragons anymore. I really need to move my van."
Taeko got his money only to hear the click of a gun. He turned to see a police officer…more specifically the curvy mocha one from the locker room video.
"Alright, hands where I can see them, Purple Dragon scum." The officer said. "You're under arrest for brandishing swords out in the open."
They could not believe that the cop missed the fact they just traded drugs. Bison just slipped the merch away.
"Do I look like I'd be running with those Purple bastards. Plus, I…"
"Save it for holding." She said cutting him off as her partner.
The partner was someone Taeko recognized…as a Triad guy. The two shared an awkward as the cop clearly was done with his partner's antics.
"That's clearly not a Purple Dragon member, Officer Ramirez."
"That explain the swor-"
"First off, I have a legal right to them. Secondly, put the gun down…you look you'll accidentally shoot a person with it." Taeko said trying to ease the situation.
Ramirez protested before accidentally shooting Taeko in the shoulder.
[Current HP: 920/970]
Insult to injury was his jacket sleeve and his shirt shelve were ruined. Taeko did not flinch in pain…thanks to his training. It still hurt, but everyone else thought he was just annoyed.
"Really? Fucking really?!" Taeko asked dryly.
"I'm so sorry..."
Another bullet through the same shoulder.
[Current HP: 870/970]
At that point, Charlotte swore she was in a cartoon seeing that this guy was shrugging off bullets. Her partner simply snatched the gun off of her clearly looking fed up.
"Uh, seeing that the girl can be a witness? I can go right?" Bison asked.
Taeko gestured and the Triad cop nodded.
"Later guys, you got my number, Char." Bison said driving away in his van.
Police had to called and Taeko had to call Velma. Awkward for everyone all around when it was explained what happened.
"So, you accidentally shot my boss twice?" Velma asked. "For swords he legally owns as he is a licensed monster slayer. I guess I better ready a lawyer for a lawsuit."
"You're not going to press charges?!"
"Nah. I think I really grind out how much money I can get from all of this. I wonder what will happen if this is made public." Taeko said with a dark look.
The Triad cop worked with a few other officers before turning to Velma and Taeko, who they took aside.
"M'am. Sir. We would like to make a deal. Now we don't want this going public. This hits media or a court, and it'll be a mess for us all. What do have to offer to cover it up?"
He recognized one of the officers as the one from the impound lot.
"Three things. I'd like more options at the impound lot. That chick gets fired. And this never happened." Taeko said.
"Agreed." The cops said.
Taeko walked off telling Velma to go back to the apartment as he walked up to Charlotte.
"Don't worry about it, nothing a [Purple Mushroom] and a cola can't fix." Taeko said going those items to heal himself. "Let's get out of here."
Charlotte drove him to the Verona Beach Apartments which Charlotte was properly introduced to Velma.
"Welcome to the Shadow Yakuza, Charlotte. Now how about I show you your apartment." Velma remarked. "And we can discuss work and payment."
"Apartment? Near a beach. I'm down!" Charlotte said excitedly as Taeko handed her 2,000 Gold.
"Good work keeping a poker face." Taeko said as she nodded. "I'll see you around."
Velma and Charlotte left leaving him to visit Candice. On the way, he found a bag of [Coke] at her door.
"This chick had to have dropped this. Oh well, free leverage." Taeko said before knocking.
"Kiba! Come in." Candice said as he walked in. "How's things?"
"Fine. How's vacationing?" He asked.
"Good, just getting my beach on. I wanted to ask if I could some cash. I really want to buy a few things." Candice said sweetly. "I did put most my money to important stuff."
"How much?" He asked.
"3,000 Gold."
He 'happily' handed it over knowing he'd be well rewarded soon enough.
"I promise to find any way to pay you back for your kindness." Candice said as he stroked her hair.
"Don't worry about it, yet. I'll think of something. Just don't waste the money." Taeko said before leaving.
He would have fooled around, but he wanted to save Candice for after he crushed the twins. He came up to Max's door and knocked. Max was happy to see her boss.
"I heard you and Chloe had a fight." Taeko said somewhat sympathetic.
"I was just so annoyed cleaning up after her…among other things." Max said.
"I just wanted to check up on you and offer you a job. Leah, a close friend and underboss, is going to be opening a legit art studio. I figured you'd be interested in working there when it opens. Better use of your talents in photography." Taeko said as Max squee'd in excitement.
[Max likes you a lot more now!]
"Thank you so much." Max said hugging him. "If there's anything…"
"Yes, there's something. Considering you're going to be away from Chloe for a time, that makes you pretty lonely." Taeko said.
What got Taeko surprised was her biting her lip at that.
"While it made me mad that Chloe thought I gave you oral…I am curious." Max said.
Taeko went inside with her and closed the door. If anything, he was tempted to record this with his phone just to show Chloe, but…he quashed the idea. He sat on the couch relaxed with his pants down as Max was on her knees nervously held his shaft in her hand.
"I…it's…um…intimidating." Max said giving gentle strokes. "I guess it fits you…you're the boss."
Her cheeks were pink as she sped her strokes giving it a few tentative licks. He would give her a helpful push to get it down her mouth a few minutes before she was bobbing it without need for him to push her. She came up for air again with a plop crossing her legs.
"Wet already?" Taeko teased.
Max was about to say something but Taeko stopped it with a nudge back down on his pole. He got a bit rougher by raising up and holding her hair. Max had one hand down her shorts touching herself. The near deepthroating turned on something in her. Part of Max was doing out of wanting to spite Chloe…and another part was really turned on by Taeko's personality. It did remind her of Chloe, but more matured. She'd never admit to anyone…but those thoughts were lost to gagging at Taeko shot down spunk in her mouth.
"Don't forget to swallow." Taeko said as she gulped down what she could before he had let go.
She was panting with drool coming down the side of her mouth.
"How was it?" Taeko said only for her to squeal and squirt from incoming climax. "Good sign."
"Thank you, boss." Max said dreamily.
Taeko left with a spring on his step. Taeko was never a netorare fan…but he could get behind it if it was deserved. He decided to spend his afternoon doing paperwork for the business while Velma showed Charlotte around meeting the other subordinate.
[New tenant moved in. Verona Apartments now at 14/40. +200 Gold!]
Night would come and it was time for work. Taeko swapped for the plain sword and suited up with Daya to go see the twins again. They entered to see Myne giving them both dirty looks.
"All right, you comic book wannabes, I'll be dealing with you tonight. Ryan's going to be late…not that it matters. I need you both to handle a deal between us and the Red County Gang. You're being given a briefcase. Go to the car park under the Mulholland Intersection, make the drop, get the briefcase full of [Ecstasy], and have it in front of me. If you don't have the case, don't bother coming back for pay." Myne said surly.
[Quest Alert]
[GTAZ Mission: Misty Weather (Part 4)]
Myne's mission for the duo, dealing with the Red County Gang.
Objectives: Go to the car park under the intersection.
?
?
?
?
Requirements: Has to be completed tonight. [Unlike previous missions, you can go with a partner. But your partner will have disguise themselves as well.]
Bonus Objectives: Ensure ? lives*.
Ensure ? lives*.
?
Quest Reward: Access to the next parts of the questline tomorrow
Bonus Objective Restriction: Both ? and ? have to saved to get the reward, if one dies…the other ones does.
Bonus Objectives Reward: [If the two are saved, then the last objective is changed], ?, ?
Raze immediately got a rotten feeling from the lack of rewards alone. Something was up and he did not like this at all. He did accept the mission and left with the briefcase given to him along with Phase. The two were walking to the parking garage.
"Ok, I smell bullshit. Something's up, and I think Myne's gunning for us." Taeko said.
"Definitely. She clearly is setting up for a failure. Why the hell else would be she use that area for a deal when there are tons of countryside?" Daya pointed. "And it's close to Purple Dragon Turf."
"And cuts to some of Sauseubeam's too." Taeko said looking to his phone. "Though a stash is in the area there, we can swing for it. Something tells me this job is going to not pay so well."
They arrived at the garage to see a familiar face.
"Hey." Mei said leaning on the Banshee.
Daya was glad she got her own car to drive, a ZR-350 slightly modded in color to be like the Banshee.
"Bitch is having us do a drug deal, but something about it stinks. You got anything on this?" Taeko asked.
"I will ask friend on force, but I will come with you." Mei said revealing a [Desert Eagle]. "Need backup."
Mei casually jacked a Sandking XL truck.
"Ok, we need to go to Ammu-Nation. I'm going to need more weapons." Taeko said as the two nodded.
Slipping out of the garage to the Triad controlled Ammu-Nation.
"Taeko, what can I do for you?" The salesman said as Taeko looked through the menu.
"Two dozen [Molotov Cocktails], one [SPAS-12 Combat Shotgun], a [Rocket Launcher], and a [Knife]." Taeko said icily as the salesman whistled. "Ammo for the pistol and rifle too."
"Don't forgot discount." Mei said to the salesman.
"Yeah, I know. Small blades are free. That'll be 12,090." The salesman said as Taeko paid.
Mei and Daya made their purchases with Mei covering Daya. They all left with Taeko and Daya suiting up and on the road.
"We're making a stop in Glen Park." Taeko said to Mei who nodded. "Namely the skate park."
Arriving there, Taeko moved for the half-pipe's underside before dislodging a package from it.
"What's in it?" Daya asked as Taeko opened it.
"[Gold Bars]. About 3 of them." Taeko said giving Mei and Daya one each before pocketing the last one.
Not long after, they arrived at the car park as a few Sadlers, Sanchez, a snazzy red Granger with the gang's logo painted on the hood. He drove close, but not enough to be see. Taeko immediately used [Observe] to at least get the 'important' people.
[Red County Denizen – Marty – Marty J. Williams. Vicious, callous, sexist, and racist. The walking stereotype for white trash…so bad that even white trash would be ashamed of him. He leads the Red County Gang with an iron fist in matters of loan sharking, protection rackets, and meth production around the countryside. However, his meth trade travels only around the countryside as most gangs in Zuzu can agree…meth from him is bad news.]
His gaze moved to the woman and the kid about Angel's age. The woman was clearly uncomfortable and a closer look had his eyes widen. Dead ringer for a Disney princess.
[Red County Denizen – Cinderella – Cynthia 'Cinderella' Perrault-Williams. A white sheep in a gang of red bastards, she's the wife of Marty. While he's not abusive physically to her, he does pretty much walk all over her making an unwilling cuckquean. She married him begrudgingly to get away from her abusive family who Marty later killed to use her family fortune to fund the gang. While a doormat, she truly wants to escape her husband for the sake of her nephew. Other than, she's a mirror to Cinderella who's painfully aware she's basically got blood on her hands.]
Same fair skin, same colored, same figure, same hair color. She wore a pale silvery-blue top that reads "G2G" with artwork of the pumpkin carriage, a dark plaid red unbuttoned shirt, light blue pants, and brown ballet flats. Her hair has also been let down and held in place by a blue bow. Taeko got an entry on the nephew.
[Gran Fiero Denizen – Morton – Morton Williams. This kid lost his parents to a car crash and was put into the care of his father's brother. Obviously, the kid resents his uncle. He wishes to me free of him and the gang life he's being forced into. He just wants to go back to Gran Fiero as he's grown to hate the countryside for good reason. Cynthia's his only reason for being in this farce.]
Frankly, Taeko knew he had to make a choice on whether to save them or not. He did not have to save them, but the chance of killing Marty, shitting on the RCG's leadership, and leaving the yoke on Myne's eyes were too good to pass up. It was time for Malicious Compliance. He, Daya, and Mei drove in before coming to a stop to get out. Mei remained in her car.
"Who the fuck are you?" Marty said.
"The delivery team for the Madozu twins." Taeko said. "Raze and Phase."
"The hell is this shit? The lady twin said that both her and her brother would be here to do that deal." One of the rednecks said holding the case of drugs.
"Yeah, they clearly lied." Phase said. "Or really, she lied. Look, we don't have all night. We have the money."
"350,000." Taeko said walking up with the briefcase. "I got your money. Let's just do this deal."
Marty snatched the case with the drugs and slowly walked up. He stayed calm and then he heard them. Purple Dragons. Sauseubeam. And then the damn police giving Taeko FOUR wanted stars.
[New Objective Added: Survive the gun fight to make your escape!]
"It's a tr-"
BLAM! He shot Marty through the head wanting to make sure that prick died by his hand. And then all hell broke loose as it was a four way gun fight with bullets flying everywhere. He snatched both case only for an RPG to blow up his car.
"Are you fucking shitting me?!" Taeko roared.
He saw the smoking barrel from a Sauseubeam member, and Taeko got pissed. He whipped out his own [RPG] and fired off a missile right before switching to his [Combat Pistols]. He got in the fight nailing Purple Dragons, Sauseubeam, the Red County Gang, and/or the police. He refrained from using his katana. Phase aided taking out a few dozen goons, but moved the cases towards her car only for hers to get a grenade smashing through the window. Taeko moved towards Cinderella and Morton. Morton turned his pistol on him only for Taeko to stop him.
"Look, I'm here to help you. Let's just say I'm a friend of Misty's." Taeko said blasting off the head of a Red County redneck with his shotgun.
"If you want to help, get us out of here." Morton barked.
Taeko nodded and called for Phase who ran over with the briefcases. They could hear a police helicopter circling shining a light.
"Oh, I'll help and make us a distraction!" Taeko said getting his RPG back out.
He fired it nailing the rotors of the chopper getting its burn and spin out of control. As it was coming down, Taeko instructed Cinderella and Morton to cover their eyes for a moment. Once they did and the chopper came to a crash, he used his last three [Flashbangs] to mask him pulling off a silent [Solar Flare] blinding dozen. Using sensing, he threw several cocktails and all his [Crystal Gem Apples] before using the [RPG] at the nearest building to have the veranda and deck come crashing down.
"Holy shit, man. That was overkill." Phase said.
"No time. We need to go now." Taeko said looking at the available vehicles around.
Most were ruined by bullets, but he spied a few undamaged cars. A black [Stretch] was there and Taeko ran for it. Starting it up, he circled for them as Mei walked up.
"Not bad, kid. But I had truck set to blow." Mei said getting in the back. "We should go!"
They all got in as Taeko sped up as another explosion wrecked that street.
"Damn, I'm going to get bullets for the pistols." Taeko thought. "And I got stars! I need to get us the hell out of here!"
Taeko was forced take backstreets just to dodge cops before getting an update.
[Bonus Objectives Completed: Save Cinderella and Morton! (Final Objective Changed)]
"Drop me off, I can make it back to Dome." Mei said as Taeko pulled over for her to get out. "I'll update you in time. Go."
Taeko sped away as Mei stuck to the shadows of the alley. Wasn't long before she got herself a car.
[New Objective: Call in to make a status report to the Twins.]
He called and got Ryan who wanted answers.
"Ryan, you didn't know. The deal made with Red County, someone made it a trap." Taeko remarked.
"What? A trap! But that deal wasn't supposed to happen until Friday, who…"
"Myne. She told us to make the drop, get the drugs, and come back. But I can't comeback as the firefight of chaos blew up my wheels, killed the leader of the Red County Gang, and got a bunch of people on death's door. Lost the drugs and the money to the fires and the chaos." Taeko said lying at the last part.
"Who was there?" Ryan said seething.
"Purple Dragons, Sauseubeam, and the police." Taeko said icily. "This was a setup, and I have a sneaking…actually no. I know it's Myne who set me up."
"Raze, come back tomorrow night for another job…if you're not arrested. I need to deal with something." Ryan said eerily calm before hanging up.
[Bonus Objective Complete: Lie about the loss of the cases.]
Frankly, Taeko did that just to shit in Myne's cereal, but he would take the free winnings.
[Final Objective: Lose the police!]
Taeko raced over to the abandoned motel to drop Daya off giving her the case full of [Ecstasy]. He knew the lack of the drugs on him wound make losing the police easier.
"Phase, take the case, hide in the motel, call V to get you!" Raze said before speeding away as Phase raced in.
Velma called to confirm and said she sent Max to retrieve Daya. Taeko hung up in relief knowing that. The case with the money was next to him which he promptly collected for himself. With that money in mind, he realized she needed an escape car. Evading a few more cops, he near the Bluffs before parking lot. He deactivated his [Raze Suit] returning to his normal appearance.
"We're getting off here." Taeko said as they got out.
His wanted stars flashed as he took Cinderella and Morton's hands leading them into the alley.
"Is it weird I expected you to be Asian?" Morton asked.
"To be fair, I'm Black Asian…so not faroff." Taeko said gesturing for them to follow.
"Thanks for um, saving us. I know your putting yourself at risk by doing all this." Cinderella said nervously.
"Save the thanks for later when we are not…." Taeko said before being cut off by his phone.
He answered to hear Sebastian.
"Yo, Ling got the word from the Triads on what happened. Me and her are looking for you, where are you?"
Taeko checked his GPS to tell him he was nearby La Corona.
"Wait, Charlotte's in the area. She's at the Liquor Mart doing some shopping. By the way, Charlotte's pretty cool." Sebastian commented. "Like I don't know how, but you got me to be next door neighbors with a rockin' guitarist and singer."
"Damn, you thinking of her…does Ling even want to share?" Taeko mused.
He could hear Ling take the phone saying, "You had to be a bad influence, Mr. Polyship. He may actually consider it."
"Look, I'll just go find her and wait out the heat." Taeko said before hanging up. "Let's go."
The three made a move for Liquor Mart only to see it was in the middle of a robbery with Charlotte fighting the crooks in question. Taeko, not in the mood, smashed a [Molotov Cocktail] in one crook's face before using the [Gold Bar] to smack the other upside his head allow Charlotte to put a few [MP5] rounds into the crook.
"Yo, boss man. What are you doing…with that Cinderella looking chick?" Charlotte said.
"Long story, but we need to go. Now before the police show up." Taeko said urgently.
Charlotte nodded before taking her groceries, but the store owner came out.
"Wait! She called you her boss, right? I could some protection and I'd be willing to pay for a decent security guard." The store owner said sheepishly.
"Ok, tell you what. Just tell me your name, and I'll have my assistant get back to you on that." Taeko said giving him the number for the business. "We are the Stardew Shadow Syndicate provide many things."
"Good to hear, Mr…"
"Maelstrom."
"Sunny Santos." Sunny said with a sheepish laugh. "So how much to get rid of the bodies?"
"I'll waive charging you in lieu of letting Charlotte here have her groceries free just this once." Taeko said as Sunny lit up.
"Eh, sure. Missy, come on in and let me waive your charges." Sunny said as Charlotte put her groceries in her car.
"Choice!" Charlotte said.
As she went in, he sent Cinderella and Morton to go in and get a snack or something. He looted the bodies. 200 Gold, some pistol ammo, and car keys to a Rumpo van. He vaporized them both with an energy blast leaving nothing but ash before going inside.
"Mr. Santos. Bodies are gone, you just need to clean the ashes." Taeko said taking a bag of BBQ chips to munch on.
To Taeko's relief, the stars stopped flashing and he was no longer wanted, completing the quest.
[Quest Complete]
[GTAZ Mission: Misty Weather (Part 4)]
Myne's mission for the duo, dealing with the Red County Gang.
Objectives: Go to the car park under the intersection.
Survive the firefight to make your escape.
Call in to make a status report to the Twins
Escape the police.
Requirements: Has to be completed tonight. [Unlike previous missions, you can go with a partner. But your partner will have disguise themselves as well.]
Bonus Objectives: Ensure Cinderella lives*.
Ensure Morton lives*.
Steal either the drug case or the cash case or both!
Quest Reward: Access to the next parts of the questline tomorrow
Bonus Objectives Reward: Access to bonus mission, Bison's Contact Info added to your phone, Story Divergence
[Bonus Mission Will Start Soon, Go to the Office to Start It!]
Mr. Santos and Taeko had a quick discussion, deals were made.
[New Asset: Liquor Mart – Post one of your members here as security or take a shift yourself! This place will produce a weekly profit of 2,500. This can increase if [Courier] missions and missions from Santos are completed. Missions from Santos can find to getting the other two Liquor Marts as assets raising your weekly profit! [1/3]]
"Pleasure doing business." Taeko said with Cinderella and Morton in the van.
"So, I have questions." Morton asked. "If you're a gang leader, why were you…"
"I'm not really a gang leader like the others. I'm more of an anti-villainous vigilante leader. I only really wanted to ensure my interests are secure…that and my partnership with the Triads." Taeko said with a smirk.
At the office building, Velma, Sebastian, Charlotte, Ling, Taeko, Cinderella, and Morton were in the meeting room.
"So, you do have dudes in the group. I was thinking you were having only chicks." Charlotte said as Velma laughed.
"Yeah, I need more guys. This is getting a bit much." Taeko said. "Regardless, I want to than…wait, where's Daya?"
"Home. She's a bit exhausted. I told her I'd deliver the pay tomorrow." Velma said Taeko gave her 50,000 gold. "That's for her."
"Yes." Taeko said.
"Damn what did she do?" Charlotte said as Taeko turned on the television to show the massive gunfight.
"Survive that with me. And we managed to gain some serious cash and a briefcase full of drugs to sell off." Taeko said. "How much V?"
"50 bags. High quality, but how much was it being sold for?" Velma asked.
"350k."
"Then it's clear that the Rednecks were cheating them…350k would net double…even triple that." Velma reported. "Unless, it's concentrated."
"Ok, first things first, we get rid of them. I'll call Bison." Taeko said surprising Charlotte. "Yo, Bison. Don't worry about how I got the number, I got an offer for you. I need to get rid of more drugs. 50 bags of [Ecstasy]. How much I'll sell it? I don't really want it…so 40k. I care not to be a drug lord…unless its pot." Taeko said. "Where to meet? Verona Beach. I'll have Charlotte deliver it with company. Yeah…see you."
He hung up while he called Mendoza for Maria's number. When Maria was told that her boss had a job and to be armed, she came with an [AK-47].
"Whoa, too heavily armed. [Micro SMG] or a [Tec-9] would have sufficed." Taeko said as Velma brought out the package. "I just need you lightly armed in case something happens. Cops are still swarming around."
"Oh…what's the job?" Maria asked.
"I have 50 bags of [Ecstasy] I want to get rid of. Someone's offered to buy it off me for 40k. They're going to be on the beach. I just need you to make the run with the new girl, Charlotte. The dealer's friends with her so let him pay her. I'm expecting 40k. Once you got the cash, you'll be delivering the 30k gold here for Velma to put away in the vault. 5k pay each for a successful job." Taeko said as Charlotte and Maria nodded. "Good, take Charlotte's car and get going."
Maria hauled the drugs out as Cinderella cleared the throat.
"I would like to inquire your services. I want to get out of the country being that with the Red County Gang around, it's not safe here. I can't go to Gran Fiero, and Sao Paradiso isn't an option." Cinderella said.
"We can arrange the means for you to leave the Republic. South Island, the Grataton Kingdom. I had a hand in aiding people who can't stay in the Republic. But I am no charity, as I do have a business to run." Taeko said seriously taking his seat. "What can you offer me?"
"My husband's assets. I can get you the means to snatch most of the gang's funding. All yours if you help you sneak in to get my and my nephew's important documents." Cinderella said. "I'll even offer up myself…for a night."
"Aunt Cyn, you don't have to-"
"I will. If I have to. I want nothing more than to leave the Republic behind…if I have to ride him, I will." Cinderella said with resolve.
"That won't be needed. I admire your resolve, and the Shadow Yakuza will take the job." Taeko said as the new quest came up.
[Quest Alert]
[GTAZ Mission: Misty Weather (Part 4.333)]
So you saved Cinderella and her nephew, it's time to help them get the means to leave this town for good.
Objectives: Go with Cinderella to [?].
Ensure the collection of her and her nephew's important documents.
Steal at least 5 'assets' from the dead Marty
Secure means to get that out of the country.
Ensure Cinderella and Morton leave alive.
Bonus Objective: Steal all of Marty's 'assets'.
Destroy the major meth lab in [?].
Requirements: Has to be completed tonight. [Cinderella is required to come with you and has to survive the entire mission.]
Quest Reward: 50000 Gold, Red County Gang weakened, +Respect with Triads, +Karma, ?
Bonus Objectives Reward: Red County Gang crippled, Further Story Divergence, ?
"Ok. Let's do this." Taeko said getting up. "We need to arrange a strike team."
"Oh shit, we all going to do this." Sebastian said as Ling looked excited.
"What do you need, Taeko?" Velma asked.
"Explosives, a flamethrower, an armored van, and I need a suit. A [Nergal Suit] because if I'm going to raid, I want to look good doing it." Taeko said giving Velma 200,000 Gold to get what they needed.
"Yes sir." Velma said leaving to get it done.
"Morton will be left behind. I'll have one of my subordinates watch them." Taeko said calling for Daya and Aleida.
Those two arrived to Taeko explaining them their job for the night.
"Keep the kid alive. And Aleida, if you don't screw this up, I may see in better light compared to Chloe. Daya, your hard work has had be considering training you in combat in the future." Taeko mused. "Either way, take Morton to your apartment and just watch over the kid."
"Morton, just stop out of trouble." Cinderella said kissing Morton's forehead. "I will come back. Promise."
Morton nodded as Taeko took Cinderella up to his office. He sat her down.
"Before we go, I need a location. And I need to know what we're up against." Taeko said sternly. "Along with asset listing."
"We'll be going to Redberry…it used to be called Blueberry, if you want the assets. He has a place there he stashes things of value. But as for important documents, he has a hideout for it. That's in Fern Ridge on a hill…I'm sure no one but me and him knew of it's location." Cinderella explained. "Get me the paperwork first, and I'll get you everything else."
"Cinderella, I'm glad you're making it easy. Just one thing, I have done my homework on the gang. There are meth labs…I want to know where the major one is. The head of the snake." Taeko asked. "I don't to just rob them. I intend to cripple them, badly."
Cinderella could not help but bit her lip a bit. She was never a cruel person at heart…did not really have a mean bone in her. So, it was oddly exhilarating to see Taeko being cold and calculating. The idea of leaving the country and making sure her husband's old gang got their karmic due for letting Marty get away with so much was something she felt she had to do. She asked for a pen and paper.
[GAME PAUSED? WOULD YOU LIKE TO QUICK SAVE?]
[Yes] [No]
….
[GAME QUICKSAVED! Hurry back.]
(A/N: A three parter? I'm sorry, but this was getting plenty long. So much so, which is surprising for this series. Splitting the days up into two or three parter chapters is a bit easier on me. As for the police parts, this was written a bit tongue in cheek. Officer Ramirez and Charlotte happen to be character imported from a Ren'Py game (I happen to like the artist, you can just PM if you want to know about the game.). The game updated recently with Charlotte getting an expanded storyline that I just played. I figured I'd use elements of it. Of course, I settled to have Charlotte and Taeko be purely platonic. Why? Because the thought of Sebastian having to juggle two girls was too good to pass up. And, I really liked the idea of Charlotte and Taeko's friendly dynamic of him wanting to help her off her slump. Next chapter, we raid the countryside and end this day! On an important note, chapters 17, 21-24, and 29 were edited to fix errors. Who do you want to see on strike team? Unlike this time, there's no restriction on who? I am going to forgo having the pets on board or Daya, however. But everyone else is fair game!