"I think I want to upgrade my house soon," I said to Eileen a couple of days later. I would have gone up to the top of the mountain, but one of my cows ended up getting really sick and I had to nurse the animal back to health. I think that Daisy will be fine. Luckily I didn't have to go to Konohana if any of my animals get sick. Now if I got sick on the other hand. . . I don't think I'd be willing to take the trip.
"Is that so?" she looked at me with interest, "Are you finally getting along better with the girls in town? You'd be able to have more room for a potential spouse. It wouldn't be too hard for a young man like you."
"I just wanted the extra space," I blushed slightly at her words, "My house is kind of small. Even for a one person place. But I did get it for free, so I'm not complaining one bit."
"That's good to hear, Philip. Well when you do decide that you want it, just let me know."
"It might even be tomorrow. I would just have to get the stuff when I get back from Konohana today. My onions are almost done growing, so I want to buy more seeds. And maybe buy a couple of horse treats from Kana."
"I see," she gave a slight yawn, "I'd take a nap, but I'm so busy. Have a lot of blueprints to plan out. Especially the one for your house. I've always wanted to do work for that old building, but didn't expect it to be taken."
"You shouldn't overwork yourself, Eileen."
"Guess I can say the same for you, mister. You do so much for the towns. Not to mention with all the farming and fishing that you do. Wouldn't want you to end up in the clinic again."
"I've only collapsed a few times," I admitted, "But that was when I first started out. I've gotten so much better at it now. And the mountain isn't too big. Once you get used to it anyways. And all the wild animals."
"I hope that you're being nice to the wild animals. Something special might happen if you do."
"Like what? I get the feeling you've done this?"
"It's a secret." Eileen chuckled slightly, "I'll let you find that out yourself."
I waved to Dirk as he passed by me on my way back to Bluebell. I only went to Konohana for the horse treats and seeds, but had ended up bumping into Nori, who was in the middle of a break. She wanted to chat with me for a bit. And then we got interrupted by her grandpa, Gombe. He ended up inviting me over for dinner, and I just had to say yes. I couldn't say no with the puppy dog eyes that they both gave me. That was one of my few weaknesses.
"Good work today Philip!"
"Good work," I echoed lazily, "Have a nice night."
I waited until he was gone before walking over to the spot where I heard the voice. Would I even hear it again? I don't think anyone would be in the mountains at a time like this. But it was pretty dark for eight, so maybe I was just guessing. But I wasn't estimating that bush. I could hear it shaking, as if the wind was acting up. But after a few seconds, a small creature raced out of it. It seemed like one of the mouses on the hill. I walked around, cupping my hands around my mouth and let out a soft call.
"Hello! Is anyone there? You can come out if you are! I don't want to frighten you!"
"Who's there?"