The Maelstrom of Stardew (Spring Year 1)

by yoshi3000

Taeko dented Joja, but what's a roughneck to do with farm life? With newfound powers from a perverted fairy and his "counterpart", he'll strive to survive the valley. He'll make some allies, enemies, and maybe form bonds. Pairings decided. Male!PC/Anti-Hero!PC/Prepared!PC (Not going to be everyone's friend) Sequel to "SV - The Boiling Point" (Minor Gamer Elements) (Details in A/N)

10. Playing With Skills

The Maelstrom of Stardew

Year 1 (Spring)

---

Chapter 9 – Playing With Skills

Wednesday, the 3rd of Spring, 2017

[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification

---

[LOAD GAME]

…

[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]

Taeko awoke with a stretch, heading to the kitchen to make breakfast by frying up the bullheads with some leftover [Spring Onion]. After eating his fill, he went outside to set a plate for Logan and Tom. The battle pets trot up the steps to the patio of the farmhouse. Tom dove into his food quickly lapping in up as Taeko waltzed over to their water bowls and filled them both up. As he walked back inside, he flipped on the television as the Game showed he could access four special channels, a Fortune Teller for his luck stat will be modified, a weather channel, Livin' Off the Land, and the Queen of Sauce to learn recipes. The latter two could only be accessed on certain days, however.

He flipped on the FT channel feeling curious. The teller looked into the crystal ball only for it to explode in the soothsayer's face.

"The spirits are somewhat mildly perturbed today. Luck will not be on your side." The teller spouted before falling over.

[Luck today in scenarios today will be boosted by (-0.07 to -0.02)]

Taeko rolled his eyes, cleaned himself up, and got dressed in fresh clothes. Taeko donned a gray shirt before putting on a high-collared navy coat with red trim, dark violet pants, a black belt around his waist, and navy shoes with red trim that match the colors of his coat.

"Totally glad I took some of my cosplay clothes to wear." Taeko said putting his essentials in his pockets.

Getting his sword at his side, Taeko looked to the time seeing the time was 6:30 in the morning. Running out, he got to watering the plants trying to hurry it along. Next on the agenda was Reiju, to which Taeko was surprised to see her grown seemingly overnight. However, he petted her before letting the coop door open for her to graze outside.

[Chicken – Reiju – Heart Rating: 3/5 – Taeko's first chicken. She's spunky and likes the outdoors in the daytime.]

"I think I'll pay Willy a visit today." Taeko said as went to attend to his pets.

---

[Cue BGM: Nujabes – Counting Stars]

The melodic tune played heavily within Penny's room. It was one of her favorite songs, one she opted to wake up to in the morning. By habit, she made it an effort to be an early bird. When her mother had a hangover, she was not pleasant to be around at all. Penny groaned as she staggered up. She does not even remember a time in her life when she was able to sleep in, but her mother did it so often. She looked in the mirror seeing her still tired face and her hair frazzled. She would put it in a bun like normal, but she decided not to bother with it. Her red hair hung down today as she showered and got dressed. One small comfort was her mother's room had her own shower, and so the main one was hers. She got on her usual clothes and applied some homemade lip gloss before cooking up some breakfast. Moving her phone and jacking it in the speaker, she let that smooth jazzy tune flow as she cooked. Some simple omelets and some ham would suffice.

"Today's Wednesday, which means it's time for start of school for Jas and Vincent." Penny said to herself. "You've already ran them down on orientation yesterday."

Penny was happy to teach them, but her issue was more with her mother. As she was a licensed teacher to homeschool, she got a stipend from the USFR Department of Education. However, she had to go above and beyond to store that cash, so her mother would not use it to spend on booze. Those kids needed a future, and Penny would ensure it.

"Mind turning that crap off? My head is still ringing." Pam said, slurring her words as she came out of her bedroom.

[Music Ends]

Penny did so but rolled her eyes. Pam stretched coming out into the trailer's living room wearing only a pair of undergarments to Penny's annoyance. Normally, Penny would not say a thing, but this time she felt different. Penny hit the pause button on her phone and turned to glare at her mother with a sickly-sweet smile. Pam actually took a step back in fear as Penny was holding a chef's knife with that look on her face.

"Mom. If you're not going to shave or manage that jungle between your legs, at least wear some shorts." Penny said in a low tone. "Or at least make yourself decent, you don't know if you are going to get visitors."

Pam was surprised at the implied threat but shrugged it off. For Penny, it was a shock to herself that she said that. Even if Pam shrugged it off, Penny felt good showing some nerve. Pam lumbered off to the couch to watch television. Penny finished her breakfast and got her materials leaving for the library early.

---

[BGM Cue (Unlocked): Route 30 - Pokémon Heart Gold & Soul Silver]

Eight a.m. was the time, and Taeko was finishing tending the farm having made sure to water the crops, hack some grass to fill the silo with some hay, chopped some trees, played with Reiju, Tom, and Logan, and crack up some rocks with his pickaxe. Text boxes had come up.

[Farming Skill Leveled Up to Level 2! Crafting Recipes for Sprinklers, Stone Fence, and the Mayonnaise Machine are unlocked. (And because we forgot about telling when you get Level 1: Scarecrow and Basic Fertilizer recipes unlocked.) +2 proficiency to the Hoe and Watering Can. (Each level up will provide +1 proficiency onward).]

[Mining Skill is now Level 1! Crafting Recipe for Cherry Bomb unlocked. +1 to Pickaxe proficiency.]

"So, I can make bombs now. Neat!" Taeko thought, liking the idea of explosives.

Too bad, he needed copper ore for it.

"Maybe, I could buy some from Clint." Taeko said to himself before a quest pinged up.

[Story Quest: Advancements]

As you gain experience, you'll discover new crafting recipes to increase profit and make life easier. A Scarecrow, for example, will prevent crows from snacking on your precious crops.

Objective: Build (1) Scarecrow.

Requirements: Must have Farming Level 1.

Reward: 100g

(This quest is a passive quest and can be done at your leisure.)

"Easy money!" Taeko said crafting the [Scarecrow].

[Basic Scarecrow – Crafted Item – This handy haunter prevents crows from eating crops (except Wild Seeds which do not need protection, and flowers if they not near crops.). A Scarecrow will protect the surrounding circular area of 248 spaces, a 17x17 area, excluding 10 spaces in each corner. Quite the OP item, if you know how to use it well. Cannot be sold.]

Taeko got his hundred gold and proceeded to tear down his wooden fences (except the gates) around the crops to replace the 50 [Wood] he put into the scarecrow. He replaced it with a [Stone Fence] considering the longevity of 132 days was completely worth blowing through his supply of stones. As for the scarecrow, he placed it in the middle of the crops before jovially jogged back out the contained crops to be. He was done with farming and had the day to himself. He looked to Logan and Tom and decided he could train them. Looking over their stats, he thought about what he could do with them. A text box came up to have him select classes for the pets.

[Classes For Your Battle Pets!]

Selecting a class for your pet determines the skill tree for them. While they can learn skills outside the tree, the ones related to the selected will have a STAB effect. Think Pokémon! Stats will also come up, albeit a bit more complex. The following basic classes are available:

Fighter – Description: The classical fearless warrior which boasts the basic stats to allow for directly assisting in combat or fight on his/her own. Benefits: Chosen Pet will gain Brave perk. Statwise, will start off with high strength and dexterity. Drawbacks: Limited access to use Mana attacks at the start as they start with low Wisdom stat.

Thief – Description: The classical thief who emphasizes speed to land hits and run into the shadows to assist the master or fellow pet. A natural charmer to get you to give it what it wanted, the rouge will not fight on its own, unless it is completely necessary. Benefits: Chosen Pet will gain Ninja perk. Statwise, will start off with high dexterity and charisma. Drawbacks: Will start off with low strength.

Mage – Description: The classical Mana user to cast crazy spells. Benefits: High Wisdom, Mana is doubled. Drawbacks: Your physical stats will start off low.

"Just three classes." Taeko said with a pet. "This sucks."

[Be aware, selecting one of those classes will allow you to choose a sub-class later on.]

"Whatever. I'll select [Fighter] for Logan and [Thief] for Tom." Taeko said while making his choice.

Doing so caused the pet's status page to completely change. The two had levels, an experience meter, stats, and a sub section for attacks/supportive techniques.

"Damn, moves and stats to keep track of. Well, can't be helped." Taeko said calling for Tom.

Tom trotted as Taeko brought the list of skills he could teach Tom. Among them was the basic pet stuff that was ingrown already, but Taeko chose to hunt [Hunting]. Taeko's body glowed white as that glow shot into Tom's body.

[Tom now knows how to [Hunt]!]

"Alright, Tom. Go hunt in the forest." Taeko said as Tom sped off in the direction of the forest.

The time was now nine-fifteen and Taeko had to hop to it. Calling over Logan, he decided to take the dog with him into town. He got a nifty message saying Logan's joined his party.

---

[Alternate BGM For Pelican Town Unlocked: Opelucid City (White)- Pokémon Black & White]

Taeko took in the sweet simplistic melody of the background music which soothed him. Logan trailed by his side as the two came up across Lewis who was updating the bulletin board.

"Morning, Lewis." Taeko said coolly.

"Ah, Taeko. Good to see you're up and about. Who's this pooch?" Lewis remarked candidly.

"His name's Logan. The lab was wandering around my farm with a cat, and I took them in. They'll assist on the farm." Taeko said satisfied. "So, what's new on the board?"

Lewis explained he was requesting a Daffodil to make some tea with it, only for Taeko to have one in hand seemingly out of "nowhere".

"Where did you…" Lewis asked before Taeko asked, "Are you really going to question why I have this?"

Lewis thought about it but decided to just pay the 90 gold for a job quickly done.

[You've completed your second Help Wanted quest! +90 Gold Earned! +150 Friendship Points with Lewis!]

"Thanks, Mayor." Taeko remarked.

"Oh, and I sent you an important letter early in the morning while you were working on your farm. I think you'll find the letter most useful." Lewis said taking out his request off the bulletin before walking off.

Looking at the bulletin, Taeko decided to post something on the bulletin. A small drawing of a chibi Taeko raising his sword looking heroic.

"Heh." Taeko chuckled as he walked off for the blacksmith.

Entering Westwood and Sons, he noticed the music shifted as the game explained that some stores will have its own set of alternate themes to play on occasion.

[Alternate Theme of the Blacksmith 1 (Unlocked) Cues: Teaching Feeling OST – Ivory Fiber]

Taeko walked in to see Clint trying to ask out a stuffed doll that looked too much like Emily to be coincidental. The two locked eyes and awkward silence filled the room. Clint immediately shoved the doll in cupboard and tried to save face. Clint failed miserably, and Taeko's profile on Clint updated slightly.

[Pelican Town Villager – Clint Westwood – Relationship Level: 0/10 – A rather boring man who's rather good at being a blacksmith. He's not really boring in a sense, he's just awkward and creepy. He's got an attraction to Emily that may be borderline creepy. His awkward work hours are on account of his nature of him not really having a work ethic. His "nice guy" attitude can be pretty annoying as well. His likes center around gems, geodes, and certain cooked dishes. (Emily's underwear would also be a liked gift.)]

Taeko looked wide-eyed and felt really uncomfortable. What made it really crappy was Clint was the only blacksmith in town, and he was stuck with him. However, Taeko made an internal promise to keep a wary eye out on him.

"Uh, you don't have to say anything about what you just saw?" Clint said in near monotone with hints of falter.

"It was just a stuffed…" Taeko said before something of Clint's fell out of the closet.

It was a RealDoll like Taeko saw on that online news article. He was shocked that Clint had one much less, afford one. The doll itself was a beauty with proportions befitting to a woman in their prime. Its hair was aqua blue with amber eyes only wearing a shirt. In between its legs, wasted genetic material seeps out of its slit. Clint looked mortified, Logan decided to trot back outside, and Taeko shakes his head.

"Heh...how about you take a turn on Aemilia?" Clint said offering a way for Taeko to keep quiet.

Taeko looked repulsed as he obviously did not clean it often. However, an idea crawled up Taeko's mind.

"Yeah no, come up with a better offer than that." Taeko said, crossing his arms.

Clint started to sweat a bit.

"How about a half a dozen copper ore?" Clint offered weakly. "On the house."

"I'll keep my mouth shut for that and if you crack open any Geodes I bring to you for half price. I consider that fair considering you've given the sight of something I did not need to see." Taeko said taking the copper ores.

"I suppose that's fair." Clint said putting "Aemilia" back in the closet.

"Good grief, I only came for you to crack open this geode!"

Clint came back down to crack open the Geode, and inside was a [Dwarfish Helm]. Taeko got the information from [Observe] that it was an artifact to hand in. Thanking Clint, Taeko made his leave. Clint looked around before locking the door. He was going to have an "early lunch".

---

[BGM Back to Default Soundtrack]

Taeko felt disturbed and the discount was not worth it. He needed a freaking drink, and maybe he could snag something off Pam. He knew she could use less booze. Logan rubbed up against his leg to make him feel better.

"Good dog." Taeko said as they entered the library.

The time was now ten o'clock and Penny was on the larger tables setting up "school". Gunther was at the desk as usual.

"Hey Gunther, I got things for you. I got an Earth Crystal and some Dwarf Helm." Taeko said putting said items on the counter for him.

"Whoa, the helm's an artifact for sure. Where did you get it?" Gunther asked.

"Geode. I don't get why, but I'm not one to complain." Taeko said plainly.

"Well thanks." Gunther said as the two set the items on the table for artifacts.

One nice benefit was the ability to customize where the artifacts, gems, and minerals go to thanks to the Game. Gunther returned to work, and Taeko sauntered over to Penny. Logan trotted up to Penny and gave her a friendly look.

"Hey Logan, you cutie." Penny cooed.

"Hey Pen." Taeko said. "Figured I'd say hello as I was dropping off donations for the museum."

"That's really nice of you to do so. It must be wonderful to discover materials like that often." Penny said warmly petting Logan. "But how's pet training?"

"Fine for the most part. I taught the cat how to hunt, but I wonder…." Taeko said before a cat's meow interrupted him.

Coming on was Tom, who had something in his mouth as he leapt in through the window. Tom came up and presented the item.

[Artifact – Prehistoric Tool - Some kind of gnarly old digging tool. Hand it to Gunther for more information. Value: 50 Gold]

"Huh, neat." Taeko said holding the item.

[Hunting is complete!]

Items obtained: 1

Rarity of Items: Ultra Rare (3%)

Experience Points Gained: 70

Tom had leveled up and Taeko gained 5 points to allocate to improve the cat's stats. He put two into strength and gave everything except charisma and dexterity one. Taeko also found himself 250 gold richer as another text box informed him, he had completed a quest involving donating to the museum, but the Game forgot to acknowledge it due to the Mines being closed.

"Seems you cat is a good hunter." Penny said as Taeko handed the item off to Gunther.

"He's getting there." Taeko remarked as he got a gift from Gunther. "Huh?"

"I'd figured I would set a small rewards system to encourage you to keep going out there to collect. Take these 9 packets of Cauliflower Seeds as a token of my thanks." Gunther alleged with his trademark grin.

Taeko nodded as thanks as Vincent made his way inside the library. The six-year old was dreading school.

"I wish I did not have to go to school." Vincent whined a bit.

"Vinny, you do realize you have the advantage. You have one teacher who can devote ample time to you and Jas. Secondly, no crap lunch food." Taeko said wistfully. "Besides, you are a child in a time where it sucks to be an adult sometimes."

Taeko left with Logan and Tom finally heading to Willy's Fish Shop at just about eleven. The three came up the dock and into the shop.

"Welcome, young fisherman. What can I do to aid you?" Willy said making Trout Soup.

"I'd like one [Fiberglass Rod] and 10 sets of [Bait]." Taeko said putting down 550 Gold for the man.

The purchases were quick and Taeko even got a "free sample" of [Trout Soup] which gives a buff to his fishing skills. The game had overlapped his fiberglass rod to replace his old rod allowing him to use tackles and bait now. Seeing it was eleven fifteen, Taeko plopped down on the beach and cast out his rod to fish. The buff for +1 Fishing was going to only last for less than five minutes.

"Logan, Tom, you two explore the beach and enjoy yourselves." Taeko said nuzzling both his pets for a bit before paying attention to the water.

The game made fishing a bit different. Depending on the person, it was a godsend or worse than regular fishing. Taeko was trying to reel in a bite he got. Nearby, Tom was getting into his own battle. A [Crab] bit the cat and he wanted that crab dead. The calico was about to pounce for a [Crossroad Killing] when Logan sprang out attacking the crab with [Dig]. The crab flipped over from the attack which got Logan to take it up in his teeth. He proceeded to [Bite] down on it to properly off it.

[Logan has defeated a [Crab]! 10 Exp Gained!]

Logan was happily eating the crab, much to Tom's annoyance. Tom wanted it to eat that crab but settled for a mollusk. Logan yipped and dove into the water for a swim as Taeko was struggling with this catch. His rod detected a "treasure chest" and was keeping the meter on it to obtain it. Once he got it, Taeko hauled in the fish. Out of the water came…a [Halibut] along with the [Treasure Chest]. The chest materialized in front of Taeko and he kicked it open. Inside the chest was a mini inventory with useful items. 10 [Copper Ore], 24 [Wood], 10 [Coal], and an [Emerald Ring].

[Emerald Ring – Ring (Equip Item) – 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%)]

Taeko slipped the ring on his middle finger as the ring's band glowed green as Taeko felt its power cover him. Taeko watched the rest of the items fade into his [Inventory] and the chest fades to dust. Taeko tested out this buff by practicing his iaido. His quick draw was great, but he felt excellent when he drew his sword. He felt faster, and he realized that it applied to all weapons.

"Does this mean axes, guns, and heck my ki attacks?!" Taeko asked himself in shock.

Taeko sheathed his sword and tried to fire a Hadouken. It came out much faster than before and Taeko watched it sail across the ocean before exploded.

"I am never taking off this ring." Taeko said blankly.

"Ruff." Logan barked coming out of the water as he shook himself dry.

"Reoowww…." Tom said.

"Well, it's about lunch time. Let's cook us up a meal." Taeko said getting up as the fishing rod phasing into the game's storage for key items.

Taeko, Tom, and Logan had left with Willy having seen Taeko pull up a treasure chest.

"Interesting. I think I may need to fish on his spot more often." Willy said wistfully.

---

[Alternate Theme for Harvey's Clinic (Unlocked) Cues: Kirby Super Star Ultra Music - Rest Point]

Maru was rather happy to see Taeko come to the clinic as she was preparing to leave early. She had worked on Monday to fill up her hours making a bit of a deal with Elliot. She had plans to work in her home lab.

"Ah, Taeko. It's wonderful to see you, and whose pets are those?" Maru asked, getting her jacket on.

"So, the farmer's come to visit? Need some medical help?" Harvey said coming back from the back room.

"Nah, I good. Been working hard yet working smart." Taeko said cheekily. "I got myself pets. The dog's Logan and the cat's Tom."

"A golden lab and a calico. You got taste." Harvey said with a mirthful as the friendly mutt greeted Harvey.

"They'll be helping me in the farm and in the mines." Taeko remarked confidently.

Somehow, Tom used [Thief] and stole Harvey's wallet.

"Harvey, isn't that your wallet in that cat's mouth?" Maru said as Harvey checked his coat for his wallet.

Harvey was dumbfounded as Taeko handed him back his wallet. Seems the cat was a little thief, and Maru had left with Taeko and his pets.

[Music Ends]

"Either way, I wanted to ask if you could smelt ore into bars." Maru said as they walked down the road.

"I can't, but might I ask why?" Taeko asked curiously.

Maru explained it was all fuel for her experiments preferring gold bars the most. She was willing to use copper bars and silver bars for lesser experiments.

"Maru, I'll think of something to help you out at the very least." Taeko said.

"Thanks anyway for that." Maru said walking on ahead home.

A text box had appeared with a small Friendship quest for Maru telling him he had to find a way to smelt bars. The reward was his friendship with her shooting up to two hearts.

"Man, which means I'll have to see Clint. Fuck!" Taeko spat to himself. "Well, I might as well drink that beer in the fridge."

He went on his way only to bump into Alex, the last person he wanted to see today.

"Can help but run into me, palm tree?" Alex said, getting up. "And when did you get pets?"

"Recently, and secondly shove it." Taeko said getting back up himself. "Mutt's Logan, Kit's Tom."

"Lame name choices, much?" Alex said with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh, I'm sorry, but I don't give a shit about your opinion." Taeko said roughly walking off.

Tom hissed at Alex before joining his master and Logan as they entered the saloon. Taeko went to the jukebox and set it to a song.

[BGM Cues: SpongeBob Soundtrack - "Piano Presto"]

"That song is making me crave ice cream." Gus thought as Taeko came up.

"Bonne après-midi, Taeko. And who are these cute pets?" Cosette said as Tom leapt up on the counter.

Taeko introduced them as Tom started laying the charm with his charisma. Tom had a sharp eye on the lady purring and rubbing against her.

"He's so cute." Cosette said, taking the cat in her arms.

"That furry little weasel." Taeko thought seeing the look in Tom's eyes.

"Maoooew….." Tom said as his stomach growled.

"Aw, you poor thing, you must be hungry." Cosette cooed.

Taeko swear he saw Gus glaring at that cat, and he could not blame him. Taeko rolled his eyes as the glutton got himself a [Baked Fish] on a plate. Right then, Penny came walking in with Vincent and Jas.

"Ah, Penny. You've come for lunch with the little ones." Gus said with a wide grin.

Thanks to her stipend, Gus had a sweet setup at he got cash to feed the three. If anything, it kept him and Cosette completely solid.

"Yes, I have." Penny said before getting a small blush to see Taeko. "Oh Taeko, you're here too."

"I was about to order, but my gluttonous cat is schmoozing one of the cooks for free food." Taeko said dryly as Tom dug into his fish meal.

Using his claws, he slashed a piece to drop down into Logan's mouth given he was his partner. Penny chuckled at that.

"So, I want to ask for a small flavor. Do you think you could make more of that lovely [Onion Bread] of yours?" Penny asked.

Gus and Cosette looked aghast asking what all this was about.

[Jukebox BGM Change: J Dilla – Life]

Penny mused about Taeko's new recipe as Taeko awkwardly laughed at it stating it was no big deal. To Cosette and Gus, it was.

"I thought you were not much of a chef." Cosette said raising her eyebrow at him.

"I'm getting adept at it." Taeko said weakly. "When you got the internet and trial and error."

"Well then, would you consider selling the recipe to us?" Gus asked.

"Depends on how much? What's the rubric?" Taeko responded.

Cosette asked how many ingredients it needed, and the price was settled. Taeko earned 500 gold for his "recipe", but the cooking couple were rather surprised at the two key ingredients. They would have to forage for them to cook them…before the season ended.

"Puppy!" Vincent/Jas said excitedly as they hugged Logan.

"How cute." Taeko said before looking up at Penny. "Sure, but I need those two to hunt for them."

"Logan, I need you to go out and hunt for some [Spring Onions]. Tom, you're on hunting for [Leeks]. We meet up at the farm." Taeko said in a commanding voice.

Tom meowed lazily before licking the plate and ran across the counter before jumping out through the window. Logan gently shook off the children before running out the entrance to follow Tom.

"Don't worry, you're getting pretty good at hunting. As for me, I'll need to make bread. I got two boxes of flour. Go ahead and order something for them, Pen." Taeko said before leaving the saloon.

"Well kids, what will it be?" Penny asked.

"Pizza, just the way you make it, Gus." Vincent said ecstatic.

"I'll have the special today." Penny said, taking a seat at the stool. "And one special for Taeko."

"Fond of the boy, already?" Cosette teased to Penny's embarrassment.

---

[BGM Ends]

Taeko was back at the farm with Abigail in tow. She wanted to train a bit more but agreed to aid in making lunch. That's why she was carrying two boxes of t flour and was having a casual conversation as they walked across the bus stop.

"I can't believe your cat stole Dr. Ovid's wallet!" Abigail said chuckling.

"Believe it, Abs." Taeko said coolly. "After that, he charmed Cosette into giving him food for free. He's such a glutton."

"Must be nice to have pets. My dad's allergic to pet dander." Abigail bemoaned. "I'll say it again, you've so lucky to be living on your own. My mom keeps ragging on me lately."

"What about?" Taeko asked as they arrived at Shadow Farm.

"The way I look, my hobbies, and my hair. She's always on about my hair color when hers is green!" Abigail pointed out.

"Isn't it natural?" Taeko asked as they entered the farmhouse.

"Yeah, but so's my purple hair. I was born two toned. I was mostly brown haired with bits of purple. Later on, I dyed all of my hair to match it." Abigail said as she put the box on the counter.

"Jeez." Taeko said coming on.

Inside, he stored a few items in the chest and tossed the [Halibut] in the fridge before getting out the [Beer].

"Didn't take you for a drinker." Abigail said surprised.

"I'm not. I was forced to drink at meetings at Joja Corp, and I had to drink to keep my sanity in that shithole, Souamil. Let me put it this way, I saw something rather fucked up with Clint." Taeko said downing the beer in one gulp.

"What? Is he secretly a murderer?" Abigail asked right as Taeko got to make the [Bread]. "Because Sebastian has theories."

"I fucking wish! At least, I could justify killing him. No, this secret is rather messed up in a more personal sense." Taeko said with a slight buzz.

"Is he peeping on women or something?" Abigail asked worriedly.

"Abs, that would be NORMAL, compared to what I saw. I can't and won't say what it is, but I will say I got a deal off Clint." Taeko said as he finished making four loaves of [Bread]. "Half off geode cracking."

"Well, ok then." Abigail said weirded out. "I'll keep quiet on this. If it's not him being a murderer, then I don't think anyone else needs to know."

"Thanks, Abs. I appreciate your secrecy." Taeko said letting the bread cool. "That beer must have been light because I'm not feeling the buzz anymore. Or my tolerance is high."

"You're doing better than Pam, and that's a good sign." Abigail said with a chuckle as they could hear scratching at the door.

Abigail opened the door to see Logan and Tom trot inside with their mouths stuffed with spring onions and leeks. Tom was carrying about five [Spring Onions] and Logan had ten [Leeks] holding them in his mouth by the roots.

[Food Retrieval Success!]

Tom: 5 Spring Onions Obtained – 10 EXP for task successful + 8 EXP for each item obtained (50 EXP Total)

Tom leveled up to 3!

Logan: 10 Leeks Obtained – 10 EXP for task successful + 18 EXP for each item obtained (190 EXP Total!)

Logan leveled up to 4!

Tom groaned that the fact that the mutt was stronger than him and he did less work than him. Quickly, the [Onion Bread] was made and the leftover material put away. Taeko decided to leave Tom and Logan home to relax while he and Abigail were on their way to the Saloon. In his head, Taeko was delegated the points (He got fifteen points for Logan, and five for Tom) to up his pets' stats. As the two entered the saloon, Penny was mildly caught off guard by Abigail coming in with him but calmed down oddly enough. Taeko produced his culinary creation on the counter.

"I'm not real big fan of leeks, but I'll try this once." Jas said quietly biting into one.

Taeko felt at ease having lunch with everyone else, but then the jukebox's music shifted when a new face waltzed in.

[BGM Cues: Team Rocket Hideout - Pokémon Fire Red & Leaf Green]

Morris had entered and Taeko's good mood darkened. The grip he had on his Fanta tightened as Morris waltzed to the counter.

"I'll take two coffees, no cream nor sugar. Chop chop, I have money to make." Morris said checking his watch.

Gus rolled his eyes and served up the coffee. Morris had hastily paid and left without a word, and Taeko calmed down as the jukebox returned to playing the usual BGM.

[BGM Ends]

"He probably like it black as that's the color of his putrid soul." Taeko said coldly.

This got a laugh out of Gus and Cosette.

"I swear. No greet and he practically tossed gold at you." Taeko said bitterly. "Ya know, Joja encourages you to walk all over the little businesses."

"Did Joja really darken your mood so much?" Jas asked.

He ruffled the young child's hair and said, "It did, and I'm clawing my way out. But you. You're young and still full of untapped potential. Enjoy it and revel in it while you still can."

Jas seemed to perk up at that, and lunch was able to conclude. Penny and the children were off for "recess".

"So, what's the plan for you now?" Abigail asked.

"Go home and meditate for a bit." Taeko said, getting on his feet. "As for you, keep up your exercise."

Abigail nodded and the two left the saloon. A group text box came up for Taeko.

[You've made [Onion Bread] 5 times, the chance of making it with silver quality increased! [Onion Bread] is now a liked gift for: Jas, Vincent, and Penny. Your group meeting has increased your bonds with the locals!]

[Friendship with Jas and Vincent are now at one heart, they look up to you now!]

[Gus and Cosette were impressed with your cooking! Friendship with them is at three hearts! A gift from them will be mailed to you! Saloon mini-game unlocked for you to serve and make some coin.]

[You've gained 43.5 Friendship Points with Abigail!]

"Whew, that's a lot." Taeko thought as he jogged home.

At Shadow Farm, he found his mailbox had a floating icon indicating it had mail. Taeko opened it up and the mail came into the form of text boxes.

[Letter From Lewis]

Taeko,

I'm really glad you've become part of our community! I've enclosed a 500g check from the Stardew Valley Agricultural Fund to help you continue your good work.

Maybe you can buy some more seeds with it.

Sincerely, Mr. Lewis

[500 Gold Enclosed]

"Thank you, politics." Taeko said he had more gold to use. "Next."

[Letter From Sandy]

Greetings from Calico Desert, Taeko!

Come visit me soon, I'm really bored out here :(. I've included a gift from the desert. You can come and thank me in person! And take some advice, invest in a car. I would not trust the town drunk to drive you there.

-Sandy

[Cactus Fruit Enclosed]

That item was going in the fridge as Taeko had a feeling he'd need it later heading inside with the rest of the letters while he tossed the Cactus Fruit in there.

[Letter From Clint]

Um, Hello...

Sorry, I'm not good at writing letters. Seeing you got ore, I'd figure I would hand you a blueprint to make your own furnace to make your own bars. As a peace offering, I've also included a copper bar. No need to tell anyone about my secret. ^^;

-Clint, the blacksmith

[Enclosed: Furnace (crafting blueprint), Copper Bar, x20 Copper Ore, x25 Stone]

The game explained the uses of the bars and said he could now make them. He also completed a story quest, [Forging Ahead], thanks to this letter. Taeko still wanted to avoid the man and ensure he does not get near Emily. And then there was the second to last letter.

[Letter From Kyu]

Hey cutie,

I noticed you're not using your Huniebee. Just a reminder for you to check on it and your messages. Also noticing you were training that purple cabbage haired girl in how to use a sword, smooth one. Maybe she'll be grabbing your sword, if you took what I mean. ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) I've watching your journey and things can go either way. You're doing a good job working this farm so far. Tora and I are celebrating Huniepop getting a sequel and we're going to "welcome" the new girls in soon enough. Either way, I'm enclosed a present for you. My advice is for to eat one and sell the other.

[Enclosed 2x Stardrops]

"A Stardrop?" Taeko said using [Observe].

[Stardrop – (Rare) Item - A mysterious fruit that empowers those who eat it. The flavor is like a dream... a powerful personal experience, yet difficult to describe to others. (Increases your health and energy by 85 points) Can be sold for 7,777 gold.]

"Damn!" Taeko cried out. "That's a lot of gold."

Taeko decided to eat one and the flavor was indescribable. It felt that for a few seconds, he was on an epic acid trip with colors all around feeling completely at ease.

[Your health and energy increased by 85 points!]

Now there was a debate on what to do with the second time. Selling it would be nice and a bit of a nice mini nest egg, but he remembered his pet. Going outside, he slashed the [Stardrop] in two with his sword and fed it to them.

[Your pet's HP and MP increased by 85 points!]

Tom and Logan were acting a bit drunk off that fruit however, and Taeko left them to read the last letter.

[Letter from Gus]

Dear Taeko,

Here's a recipe from my saloon. I only share this with my good friends!

-Gus

Be sure to come visit us! We may have a job for you!

-Cosette

[Enclosed Salmon Dinner Recipe]

The recipe was burned into his mind, and it did hurt as bad as it did the first time. Taeko groaned in annoyance, and he plopped down on his bed.

"Might as well check out the Huniebee." Taeko said getting the phone.

Unlike the traditional Huniebee which was pink, this one was black with pink chibi Kyu on the back. Taeko unlocked it to find his wallpaper and his apps from his old phone there along the rest of the Huniebee's features. He opened up the "Girls" section and saw he had his contacts, Leah, Abigail, Emily, and, Haley. Each one had a small profile on them with little details just like the Huniepop came. Their occupation, age, height, weight, hangout, birthday, cup size (Taeko blushed beet red), favorite hobby, favorite color, favorite season, favorite alcoholic drink (Penny's had none), and libido levels. The only one with a complete profile was Leah which made sense considering his friendship with her. He blushed to see her libido was "high". The rest of the profiles had pieces filled with others blank. Taeko moved to the messages. The first text was from Penny yesterday and it had a photo attached. Taeko opened it up.

[You cooked such a nice dinner for us, and it really left an impact. Though it's only been two short days, you've done a lot for me. Someday, I'll return the favor.]

There was a photo of Penny trying different recipes. He did not think that Penny was the type of girl to own a tube top. In the photo she wore a pink one under the white apron he had on along her usual skirt. Unknown to him, that top used to belong to Pam. It was a rather cute photo, and Taeko moved down to Abigail's message. This one seemed to be from after her first training session.

[Oi, Taeko! I want to thank you for making me your pupil in sword fighting. It's been a dream to actually wield Espada and be a great swordswoman. The mines are full of monsters from old along with the hidden place in the deserts, and it's my dream to plow through them someday. You've done a lot for me already and to think you're just starting out. Well sensei…think you could help this body get more toned? ;)]

The picture she sent with it just Taeko to blush. The photo was her posing with her sword wearing her usual wear except the shirt was open to show her sarashi and stomach.

"Damn teasing…" Taeko muttered as he checked the rest.

Sebastian had sent him a modded copy of Sonic Advance 2 saying he's been wanting to try level design and asked him to test it later for review.

"I guess I could play it after I build the [Furnace]." Taeko said, getting up and checking the time. "It's one in the p.m. now."

Lastly, there was Kyu's message which was a bout of tips on the Huniebee and so forth. Putting the phone back in his pocket, he went out into the living room. Clint had given him the materials to build a furnace and used the crafting menu to form one. Now there was the matter of where to put it, and Taeko settled it outside on the porch. The new furnace was placed and Taeko tossed the coal and five copper ores before closing the hatch. Going back in, he sat at his computer plugging in his Huniebee into his computer. He wanted to try that mod, and he put a half hour playing it. The mod was rather strange, but Taeko plowed through several zones.

"A zone themed after the world of Mario, and a plot for Sonic to Eggman across different videogame worlds." Taeko mused to himself. "A bit basic, but the gameplay and music's decent."

Taeko had texted Sebastian about his run-through of the first three acts before going to the furnace to get his new [Copper Bar] which pinged into his [Inventory] automatically.

"Ok, the time's 2:30, and I got time to see Maru." Taeko thought before leaving the house.

Logan was asleep on top of the chicken coop, but Tom was on the front porch.

"C'mon Tom, might as well leave him to sleep." Taeko said as the cat followed along. "Might as well take the backwoods route."

"Mewl." Tom purred out as he followed along.

The Backwoods had two sections before leading to Mt. Stardew, the path leading up the mountain from his farm and a lower section that can only be reached by heading west along the road from the Bus Stop. The two were walking along with a flashing text box that came up with an exclamation point. Out from nowhere, three wolves made themselves known. Their fur was blood red with chains around their necks and had their eyes on the duo.

"[Observe]" Taeko/Tom thought focusing on two of them at first.

[Enemy Combatant – Red Wolf – HP: 250/250 – MP: 20/20 – A fierce wolf feared for its cruelty to its victims. They are hardy enough to survive different environments. Normally, most of these wolves live in the desert or higher up on the Mountain. It will bite and try to tear your limbs off.]

Taeko gaze moved to the slightly larger one, who had snarling at him.

[Enemy Combatant – Red Wolf Alpha – HP: 500/500 – MP: 50/50 – The leader of the Red Wolf pack, the biggest and toughest of the group. Its bite is so vicious, the Red Wolf has been associated with vampirism. The chains on it are slightly rusted, but she can swing them for harsh attacks. Normally, they are nocturnal creatures.]

Taeko knew full well that ignoring them was no option, so he took a stance. Tom hissed ready for combat.

[Battle BGM: Dragon Ball Z: Attack of the Saiyan OST – Enemy Encounter Theme]

Tom wasted no time using [Shadow Divide] splitting himself into multiple illusionary copies that surrounded the wolves. One of the wolves got hit with [Confusion] staggering around like a drunkard. The Alpha swung her chain around to attack the copies while the second wolf charged at Taeko who backflipped into the air.

"[Hadouken Aerial Barrage]!" Taeko said firing down a few weak and rapid Hadoukens down at it.

Taeko had hoped for some damage the game marked that the second wolf had 150HP left. Taeko sighed in relief as he landed on his feet only to get bitten on the Alpha making his blood stain his coat. If not for his gamer powers that would have hurt a lot more than it did.

[Current Health: 555/655 (Status Effect: Bleeding, will slowly lose Energy and HP)]

"You bastard!" Taeko said using his bloody arm to slam the Alpha into a nearby tree.

Tom was struggling with [Bleeding] as well as the injured wolf nicking his side. The confused wolf tried to attack only to hit his head against a tree, losing health. Triggering [Crossroad Killing], his claws glow an eerie whitish-purple aura before Tom used his dexterity to move at faster speeds.

SLASH! [Critical Hit landed! Bleeding Status Effect given!]

The confused wolf got the brunt of the attack due to the injured wolf dodging it, leaving the confused wolf with 100HP left. After Taeko slammed the Alpha into the tree three times, she let go and blood oozed out his right arm.

[Current Health: 515/655 (Still Bleeding)]

[Red Wolf Alpha's Health: 300/500 HP / Status Effect: Minor Concussion (Dazed)]

Taeko knew he had a problem considering his right arm was in pain and in no state to pull a sword attack leaving him one hand for a sword technique. The injured wolf Taeko attacked first had jumped up to bite on Taeko only to get an elbow to its jaw sending the wolf to the ground whining in pain. Its health down to 50HP and its jaw was damaged and unable to do biting attacks. Using [Thief] and [Crossroad Killing], he finished off the wolf which angered Alpha.

"It's now or never!" Taeko said unsheathing Eclipse with his left hand as he began readying himself. "Come and get it, bitch."

The Alpha saw red and circled the farmer twice before using a tree to jump off of to try to bite down on his hand.

"[Blurring Blade]!" Taeko said unleashing a series of rapid stabs in the air hitting Alpha's body. "Here's your final plunge!"

With a final plunge, his sword impaled through the Alpha's neck with its blood drizzling down on the metal of the blade. Taeko was earnestly surprised that worked. It took three more attacks from Tom to finish off the last one.

[Wolf Pack Defeated! Tom gains 100XP, +2 to Defense Stat, and a New Move [Aqua Jet]. Items added to your inventory!]

[Battle BGM Ended]

I immediately used the points to up Tom's stats before looking to the items. He got 2 leeks stolen from the wolves thanks to Tom. He dropped one on the ground for him to eat to replenish his strength. The wolves' carcasses turned into red dust blowing away in the wind leaving behind items. A blood red leather jacket that fur lined in the inside, a black string necklace with a wolf fang, and a blue pair of ninja sandals. Using [Observe], he found that the necklace was a pet equipment item and the ninja sandals had bonuses.

[Wolf's Fang – Necklace (Pet Equip Item) – They say the wolf fang within the string allows dogs to connect to their primal ancestors as it is imbued with a mysterious energy. (Biting attacks will do 10% more damage and Hunting's likelihood of bringing junk is decreased by 10%)]

Taeko set it to equip, and it vanished. The sleeping dog would now have a necklace around his neck but was blissfully unaware. Taeko moved into the sandals.

[Beginner's Shinobi Sandals – Footwear (Equip Item) – Sandals befitting that the genin shinobi of the Naruto world. Taken from the Naruto gamer worlds, these sandals are basic but provide solid comfort and protection (+2 Speed, +1 Defense)]

The idea of actual sandals from the world of Naruto was a mind blower. Naruto, as a series, may have its problems, but he'd be lying if he was going to refusing stuff from the world itself to use and abuse. His navy shoes came flying off along with his socks as he slipped on the sandals. He knew that coffee gave him a speed boost, but that was temporary. This one was permanent. He had slipped off his ruined coat stained with his blood finding his grey shirt undamaged. His arm had two holes in it, and it was still bleeding. He picked up the wolf-themed leather jacket and wrapped it around his waist. He walked back to the farm, and left the ruined coat, his socks, and shoes on the porch. He and Tom both looked messed up, but they trudged through the Backwoods. Once through, they arrived at the house of the Grant-Shadows family and entered through the door. Robin was twirling her hunter's knife in her hand talking to Maru when they turned to see them. Maru screamed, and Robin's knife hit the ground with blade digging into the ground.

"What the hell happened to you?" Maru said, coming up to him. "Your arm's bleeding really badly."

"And you and that cat are trailing blood!" Robin said looking at that light trail of sanguine.

"It's not that bad….I wanted to come to bring you a [Copper Bar], Maru. I got a furnace to make them." Taeko said with a wistful yet pained smile.

"Forget that, how did you get hurt?" Maru said concerned.

Before Taeko could explain, Sebastian bolted through the front door.

"Mom, Maru, we have a problem. Dad pissed off some wol-Taeko, what happened to you?" Sebastian said.

"Wolves…Tom and I just fought and killed them." Taeko said wincing. "And what did your father do?"

"Well dear daddy lured a red wolf pup away from its pack to study it." Sebastian said sarcastically. "Hell, red wolves aren't even supposed to be living near people, but there's a pack in Cindersap Forest deep within."

Taeko's eyes widened.

"You mean to tell me, I get jumped because of that prick!" Taeko said angrily. "If I hadn't passed through the Backwoods, they would have torn through my farm and kill Reiju!"

"Reiju?" Robin asked confused.

"My chicken." Taeko explained. "I get a bleeding arm and Tom looks all bruised up."

Sebastian looked absolutely livid at the sight of his friend being hurt and stormed back out to have words with his step-father. Robin went after him, and Taeko and Tom were dragged into Maru's bedroom.

"You still use floppy disks?" Taeko said noting the floppy disk driver attached to her sleek yet worn computer.

"It's too store smaller projects. It's cheaper than buying flash drives for everything. Now let me help you two." Maru said getting a first aid kit out of a case in her room. "Now this is going to hurt."

Rubbing alcohol was poured on the wound and it took all of his willpower not to scream. The wound was cleaned and wrapped up in gauze. Tom had a few bandages wrapped around his stomach and legs.

"Please don't scare me, like that." Maru said, relived before Taeko handing her the Copper Bar. "And thanks, this could come to be useful for a recent project."

Maru unveiled what seemed to be a small yet bulky laser turret except it was attached to a jug of water.

"It's a turret designed to target planet and spray them with suitable amounts of water." Maru explained. "It's fueled by metallic bars as it is cordless."

[Sebastian respects your bravery, and your friendship is moved up to 600 Friendship Points! Maru's thankful for your safety, friendship is now at 2 Hearts (Room can be accessed + Heart Moment Unlocked). Friendship with Robin is jerked up to 1 Friendship Heart.]

Taeko sighed in relief that it was all worth it. Taeko eyed the invention wondering if he could convince Maru to part with it.

"Well, now that you're all patched up, let's test it." Maru said, picking it up. "Hold the bar and follow me to the lab."

Taeko slipped on the red leather jacket and followed her into the lab.

"So, I noticed you're wearing ninja sandals. Where did you even those? They're a perfect lookalike." Maru said she set the machine on the middle of the table in the lab.

On the table were several potted plants with fertile soil, and Maru took the copper bar to slip into the power slot.

"I found them…" Taeko said being vague on purpose. "Or they found me."

Maru chuckled lightly chiding him for being mysterious before shifting the topic to his furnace.

"So, you got your own furnace now? How good is it?" Maru asked programming in the range of how far for it to spray.

"Well, I'm still figuring it out as I built my own. But it makes copper bars in about thirty minutes." Taeko said sheepishly.

"A half an hour, you say? Most impressive consider most take longer. You think I could come over and use it sometime?" Maru asked.

"I could use the company." Taeko said with a chuckle as Maru set the beakers of her growth formulas lighting the Bunsen burners.

Demetrius had arrived, and Maru left to get more samples asking the two to watch over them leaving the two alone. Tom lazily sat on the counter leaving the air awkward between the two. Taeko did not even want to speak, but Demetrius spoke.

"You know, Maru and you seem to get along just fine." He said as Taeko wanted to roll his eyes. "Thanks for helping her out."

"Maru's a good kid. She's my special little girl." Demetrius swooned on.

"Where's your love and care for Sebastian, douche?" Taeko thought bitterly only for Demetrius to face him.

What Demetrius did not know was Sebastian was watching this afar testing out his new record audio app on his phone, and he was able to catch something juicy.

"I wouldn't want anything or anyone at all getting in the way of her bright future, know what I mean?" Demetrius said in warning tone before chuckling. "Just some food for thought?"

That did it, and Taeko turned to Demetrius. Demetrius had thought his "Papa Wolf" glare and tone was intimidating, and it would be. However, not to a person who's seen the horror of Souamil, the glare and look of it Taeko gave to Demetrius scared him. It was more of a look of feeling and enraged. Taeko normally would not mind this, but there are two factors that got him to mind this. One, he had the nerve of threatening him with his despite the fact he's only known Maru for less than three days and had not made an attempt to up and date during then. If anything, he'd accept this if this was Pierre, but he hasn't said a thing. Secondly, the fact that he was brazenly threatening him despite the fact that he and his cat were attacked by wolves thanks to him, and he hasn't apologized for it.

"You have got to kidding me." Taeko said in a calm yet dark tone of voice. "Then again, you obviously think little of Maru. You're saying she can't have a relationship and achieve her dreams."

"It's not really the fact of a relationship. I just don't want you to take adva..." Demetrius said before Taeko glared harder.

"Seriously?! It's only been three days since we meet, and you're assuming the fucking worst." Taeko said not raising his voice. "Maru can make her choices but even then, we're not even dating."

Before the beakers boiled over, Taeko turned it off. Finally, he raised his voice.

"Lastly, you have the fucking nerve to threaten me after your boneheaded move nearly got us me and Tom killed. I could have lost my arm, or even my life if I wasn't trained to fight! Some fucked up priorities, you got. I nearly get killed and all you could think about is me getting in your daughter's pants!" Taeko ranted viscerally.

Tension was high, but then Maru walked in with another potted plant.

"Ok, I'm ready. What's going on? And Taeko, why do you look like your about to slice something in two?" Maru asked.

Taeko was given an option by the game to either say nothing or admit the truth. Ultimately, Taeko chose silence and reviled in disgust to see that he gained ten Friendship Points with Demetrius for keeping quiet. Before Taeko could open his mouth, he heard his own voice and Demetrius's. Sebastian was playing what he recorded while sitting on the couch, and Maru heard every second. Sebastian was pretending to mind his own business when he did that. Maru looked at her father before leaving for her room clearly livid, and Taeko decided it was best he leave. Tom hissed at Demetrius before running past him with a bit of a glow at him. Sebastian looked at Taeko and gave a subtle nod. Taeko had a quiet grin leaving the place as he did not realize Sebastian had unintentionally done him a favor in his long-term quest.

"I need a break." Taeko said to himself. "And it's nearly three."

"Mow." Tom said, having a small bag in his mouth.

"Hm?" Taeko said taking up the small bag.

The game had let him know that item was gold, specifically two-thousand gold that Demetrius had on him when Tom robbed him.

"That's a good little thief." Taeko said, stroking his cat's hand. "Now let's go see Shane."

JojaMart was a place that repulsed Taeko especially due to old memories. As he walked in with Tom, old memories surfaced of his early days being a cashier. Even if misery builds character, he had fond memories there. He walked through the aisle calmly before finding a grumbling Shane struggling with some heavy boxes stacked higher than his head.

"Here, let me help." Taeko said taking one of the boxes off the stack for him to see.

"Thanks, Taeko." Shane said with a sigh. "I swear Morris could off his lazy ass and help me."

Taeko put the box down where it belonged and felt his pain.

"That cat, yours?" Shane asked.

"Yeah, that's Tom. Your aunt found them him and a dog on my farm with no owner or home. So, I took them in. I always wanted pets, and Logan makes a good guard for Reiju." Taeko said as they were stacking the shelves together.

"That's good to hear, you're taking care of Reiju." Shane said as they finished. "How is your first few days in the Valley?"

"I won't lie to you, but there are too few people in this place. I swear I have to be careful with how I go about things." Taeko admitted feeling a bit at ease.

"Well, you obviously learned a rule here. But I admit, I envy you a tad having that farm to work with. I'm not a crops guy, but I'd love to use the place for a farm for animals, especially chickens." Shane admitted.

"Back when I worked in a trap like this, I thought I could work my way up and become a corporate guy." Taeko admitted. "With lots of money, a neat company car, and a personal assistant."

"But admitted you got screwed over by the company you bled for. At least, you're young, and got your life ahead of you." Shane mused.

"Shane, I think you're only older than me by a year." Taeko said dryly.

"And here I find you talking instead of working." Morris said impatiently.

"Ahem, I believe corporate policy says that all Joja employees that work in the stores are permitted two ten-minute breaks in their shifts if they work for more than eight hours." Taeko said dryly.

"I am?" Shane said in shock.

Morris paled and Taeko walked away.

"Later, Shane. And you may want to read your employee benefits list, because I have a feeling Morris is skimping you." Taeko said with a small smile.

"And what's a filthy fleabag doing here? Shoo!" Morris kicking Tom away right on his ribs.

Taeko was reaching for his sword, and Shane had to convince him that skewering Morris was not a good idea. Tom flinched from the blow but sprang up glaring back. Triggering [Aqua Jet] for the first time, its body glowed blue to everyone's (except Taeko who was more curious) shock. When the glow "shattered", Tom's body was surrounded with water cloaking the cat. With a roar, he shot at Morris like a rocket ramming him right in his stomach getting the rich prick to cough up blood and spittle. The attack sent Morris into the shelves causing a jar of expired pickles to fall on his head shattering the jar and leaving the guy out cold.

"What kind of cat is this?" Shane asked Taeko.

"The awesome kind." Taeko said proudly. "You should see the dog in action, a warrior he is."

"Well, he's breathing. I should get Harvey after…I have a pizza and a beer. A root beer because I'm still on the clock." Shane said waltzing off to enjoy his break.

To add insult to injury, Tom urinated on Morris before using [Thief] on his body.

[Tom has defeated [Morris]! He gains no exp though, but a Pet Equip Item instead. It's in your [Inventory]. Tom robbed Morris, gained 4000 Gold! However, Tom cannot enter JojaMart for a week.]

Taeko exited JojaMart with Tom proud of his deed returning home to check out the new item. Said item was a comfortable cat sized red cape.

[Reunion Cape – Back Item (Pet Equip Item) – This cape was woven with softness and the love of a Yoba Priestess. It's blessed, and if the person wearing it is lost, it will warp back to its loved ones.]

Taeko immediately equipped it on Tom on finding it nifty.

"Well, I guess I'll have to hide you better. For now, you'll have to sleep in the coop." Taeko said pouring water in their food bowls.

Tom nodded and trotted off.

"Might as well, go see Abigail." Taeko said to himself. "Plus, I can test out my running speed in my sandals."

Rocketing off, Taeko felt a lot faster feeling and felt a lot more agile. Using a bit of parkour, he found himself up on the balcony of Pierre's home before swinging down to ground level.

"I love these sandals." Taeko thought as he entered the shop. "Shoot, now I got two hearts with Maru, I'll need to collect for that Kyu quest. Oh right, Abigail too."

Pierre was reading a novel as Taeko entered.

"Ah, if it isn't Taeko. I want to thank you by giving my daughter a job. Better her actually doing something then lazing around." Pierre said as he kept reading.

"Yeah, sure. By the way, I'll take 6 boxes of [Speed-Gro] and [Potatoes]." Taeko said getting out his wallet.

"That'll be 1200." Pierre said blankly putting the items on the table.

Taeko paid and the items pinged into his [Inventory]. Leaving Pierre to read his book, Taeko went ahead inside triggering a heart event with her. Entering Abigail's room, she found the room darkened with only the lights from the television. There was a bit of a mess as a few clothes were strewn out. Abigail sat in just boy shorts and her sarashi playing video games on an old SNES. Moving slowly, he noticed a rather frilly pair of underwear at his feet among the more boyish underwear.

"Mother probably bought it for her." Taeko thought with a blush. "Eh, might as well."

With a touch, it vanished.

[Panties Collected: 5/11]

"Shit!" Abigail spat as she got another game over. "I swear that the arcade version was easier than this!"

Taeko had an idea and silently leapt up to the ceiling using the sandals to stick to it. He noticed that Abigail had at least two more game consoles, a neat library of games, and a hamster cage for a Guinea pig.

"Ah, Journey of the Prairie King. I swear that game makes Wild Guns and Contra look merciful." Taeko said.

"Yeah…TAEKO?!" Abigail said spooked out as Taeko jumped down.

"Hey Abby, I wanted to come visit." Taeko said coolly.

"You could have knocked, perv." Abigail said with a blush.

"Considering the picture, you sent, this is nothing." Taeko said with a blush. "Either way, I heard that game is being a bitch to you."

Taeko looked up on his to see if there were cheat codes and did not find much.

"Ok, try this code. At the main title, hold down Select, and hit X, Down, Y, Up, B, A, and Start." Taeko suggested. "It'll triple the lives you start with it."

Abigail tried and managed to get it to work hearing the small chime signifying it went though. Abigail insisted he joined in playing and Taeko was not one to back out. Thus, they lived and Taeko was reminded why he was glad to be born into the generation that grew up with GC, PS2, and GBAs. Older games were harder and merciless in their difficulty. It took them a while, but they had beaten a first world.

"Whew. That's enough of them, we can save it here." Abigail said saving the game. "Man, there was rough. Thanks for aiding me, Taeko."

Taeko wiped sweat off his brow and checked the time, finding it was about six o'clock. They were playing for three hours straight.

"Well, it's late. How about I treat you to dinner at the Saloon?" Taeko said getting up to stretch.

"Asking me out on a date? Don't you know that you can't date your students, unless you're into that?" Abigail teased, getting an annoyed blush out of him.

"Humph." Taeko said, leaving the room.

"He's so cute when he pouts." Abigail said to herself, getting dressed to go after him.

Abigail caught up to Taeko as they entered the saloon which was lively as usual. Pam was at her usual spot drinking in booze to Taeko's annoyance. Looking over at the jukebox and remembering the game had told him what song a put in would shift the mood of the people within, Taeko decided to play something.

[Jukebox Cues: National Park - Pokémon Heart Gold & Soul Silver]

It seemed an aura of relaxation came out among the people. Marnie seemed more wistful, Leah had a dreamy look on her face, and Cosette had a tinge of pink on her face.

"Finally. Someone with a taste for music." Sam said coming up. "Nobody seems to realize that video game music can be so moving."

"Hey Sam, you remember Taeko?" Abigail said, coming up.

"Oh right, the new farmer in town." Sam said with a small smile. "How do you like the valley so far?"

"It's a bit small for a town, it feels like a quaint village you'd see in an RPG." Taeko said sheepishly.

"I feel you." Sam said coolly. "So, what are you and Abs up to do?"

"He's buying me dinner." Abigail said teasingly.

"Damn, three days and you charming already." Sam joked.

"Jeez, don't say it like that. I just got into town." Taeko said with a sigh. "But either way, just let me order and we can all talk."

Taeko went up to the counter where Cosette asked for his order.

"Hey, Abigail. A large pizza to split between us good." Taeko asked, turning to her.

"Yeah, sure." Abigail said walking with Sam to the pool table and arcade room.

"One large pizza, half pepperoni and cheese. Three sodas." Taeko said to her.

As the order was set, he looked over at Shane, all at his lonesome finishing off a beer. Taeko did not want him to end up like Pam, and made the offer to him to join him, Sam, and Abigail. Shane seemed hesitant and decided it was better than drinking alone. Taeko would up paying 400 gold for everything thanks to Shane offering to chip in for a chunk of it. Taeko carried the food and drinks into the room and the four were eating up on a small table within the arcade room.

"So, Taeko? You said you used to work for Joja's corporate branch? What was it like?" Sam asked curiously.

"It was monotonous. I don't think I was that active. I'd be mostly sitting in an office working while subtly goofing off. It wasn't until my trip to Souamil that I realized I had grown rusty in my skills. I used that hellhole to sharpen them once again." Taeko said, looking at his sword. "After that, I made sure to train, and plan my revenge."

"Heh, you have to admit that revenge you did pull was sweet." Shane said jovially.

They all shared a good laugh as Sam asked about family.

"I got an adopted sister. Hikari, and yes, she's trained like me. Haven't seen the little upstart in five years though." Taeko said. "I think she's out doing something important though. As for my parents, that's a secret for now."

"What is your family an ancient clan of ninjas?" Abigail joked.

Taeko decided to mess with their heads by ninja flipping into the wall sticking into it slightly thanks to the sandals before sliding down into his feet.

"Maybe." Taeko teased.

Abigail blushed, Shane was impressed, and Sam was awestruck.

"That was so cool!" Sam said ecstatic. "I meet a real life ninja!"

"Could you sneak up on someone?" Shane said with a smirk.

"Any requests on who to pull a Batman on?" Taeko said returning a smirk.

"Emily." Shane/Abigail says.

"Watch and learn, everyone." Taeko said cracking his knuckles.

The game made flipping and wall jumping much easier to the point where Taeko felt light on his feet. If anything, he felt it took half the effort to perform this than before. Helps that he could perform wall kicks to move about thanks to the game. Abigail, Sam, and Shane watched in shock how Taeko zipped past everyone without being seen. The only one who caught a glance at Taeko was Leah, who experienced Taeko's Batman hi and byes. Emily was minding her own business serving Pam another shot of whiskey when Taeko came down from the ceiling scaring her and Pam.

"Gah, Taeko!" Emily said in surprise.

Everyone, except Leah, Sam, Abigail, and Shane, turned their heads surprised to Taeko over there despite never seeing him leave the arcade.

"Hey Em. Sorry for dropping in, but I wanted to say hello." Taeko said before turning to Pam. "You look like you had enough."

"Humph, I can take 5 more shots of those." Pam boasted with slurred speech.

"Oh please, that's child's play." Taeko said rolling his eyes.

Taeko calmly walked away with Pam demanding a drink off, but Taeko refused. Coming back into the small room, the conversation went on and was even some playing of Street Fighter for fun. It had soon hit, and Taeko was fixing to leave with the box of leftover pizza.

"Well guys, this was fun. However, I must go. I need to deal with the farm real quick before I turn in." Taeko said.

"Well, this was fun, you should join us on Fridays. But I should go too, I got work tomorrow." Sam said leaving. "But it was nice for you to join us, Shane."

"Thanks, Taeko, for inviting me to join. That was something to break the boring so and so." Shane said as left as well.

Abigail went on ahead home as Taeko walked into the night air.

[BGM Change – MySims Kingdom – Night]

His pizza box disappeared into his [Inventory] and a text box pinged up.

[You had a pizza party with friends! Sam loves pizza (+80 Friendship!), Shane loves pizza (+80 Friendship), Abigail's interested in your skills, a future quest may be in your cards, you impressed Emily (Friendship is jilted up to 1 Heart)]

Taeko decided to go see Penny, and he found her sitting outside grading papers.

"Hey Penny, you all right?" Taeko asked. "I bought you a slice of pizza."

"Gimme!" Penny said, snatching the slice out of Taeko's hands and wolfing it down.

"Sorry about that. I was rather hungry, but too tired to cook." Penny said flustered.

"Well, I just wanted to check up before I run home." Taeko said with a small smile.

"Thanks." Penny said as Taeko ran off.

In a rush, he arrived back at his farm only to find he had an "unwelcome" guest. Haley was poking around seemingly aiming her camera at the sleeping Logan with Reiju on top of it.

"The perfect shot." Haley said snapping a photo.

As if on instinct, Tom runs up and snatches the camera off her hands and runs to Taeko to give it to him.

"My camera!" Haley said looking up to see Taeko with it.

"You know, it's not polite to waltz in here for a photo shoot without asking." Taeko said holding the camera.

"Give it back." Haley said, trying to take it back.

Taeko's response was to leap up a nearby oak tree.

"Yeah, no. Not until I get a why you're here." Taeko said looking down at her.

"An animal photography contest. Winner gets a gift card of $1,000 to use for Tobi." Haley admitted.

"I want half the reward." Taeko said sternly.

"It's a women's clothing store." Haley said smugly.

"So? I want half of it." Taeko said sternly.

"What the heck are you going to do with women's clothing?" Haley asked incredulously.

"I can find use for it." Taeko said thinking of Penny.

"Whatever. Fine, you can have half." Haley said as Taeko came down to give her camera.

Haley stormed off with Taeko sighing. Not wasting time, he planted the potato seeds lacing them with [Speed-Gro]. However, he was going to have another guest, Maru.

"Hey Taeko, I'm sorry about my dad. I feel awful he did that to you. We merely just meet." Maru said earnestly. "So, I brought something to help you out."

In her hands was the water spritzer cannon, and Taeko lit up. She told him that he needed this more than her. The game let him know that this could auto-spray at least two columns and it could be upgraded to spray further. Maru and Taeko set it up in the middle of the crops.

"Thanks, Maru. This'll cut my watering time down for now until I dig up more farmland at least." Taeko said curtly.

"It's no problem. I should be thanking Sebastian for exposing that." Maru said sheepishly. "But I have to admit that the way you stood up to my dad…was kind of hot."

Taeko raised an eyebrow at this as Maru had a bit of a blush on her face. Maru admitted that no guy has ever stood up to him like that before.

"Well, Maru, he doesn't scare me. I've had to deal with mean mugging in Joja and in Souamil. And he's not even that scary considering I had to deal with people having a gun to my face. All and all, your dad's small fry." Taeko admitted.

Maru gazed into his eyes with wonder. Someone smart and fearless was a rare combo.

"Well, I wish you the best. Either way, I sent you a little something to your phone to show you a sneak peek of my next project." Maru said walking off.

Taeko went inside and got on his Huniebee finding the message.

[Next, on my list of projects. I'm thinking of making googles to see through objects. So far, it works on a basic level through one layer. ' But I won't give up!]

And then there was the picture, it was in Maru's room with her testing the glasses. However, with how the glasses and projector was set, you could see Maru's reflection in the mirror expect the reflection showed her in a one-piece swimsuit. It hit Taeko that she set herself like that on purpose. Who wears a one-piece swimsuit under their clothes?

"Well that's nice." Taeko said with a yawn. "But I need sleep."

Taeko went down to give his pets dinner in the form of the leftover pizza slices which they ate heartily.

"Well good night, you two." Taeko said heading in.

Tom followed Taeko inside, but Logan went off to the coop to sleep in there to guard Reiju. Taeko kicked off his sandals, put the jacket on his desk, and collapsed into bed. He had a long day and turning in early felt like a good idea. Tom jumped up to his desk and curled up to fall asleep next to his master.

---

[STATS]

Taeko Kiba Maelstrom

Occupation: Farmer/Freelancer Ronin

Age: 20 years

HP: 655/655

Energy: 435/435

Overall Level: Tiller

Farming Skill Level: 2

Mining Skill Level: 1

Foraging Skill Level: 4

Fishing Skill Level: 2

Combat Skill Level: 10

Gold: 10066

[Taeko's Perks]

The Gamer's Mind – Allows the user to calmly and logically think things through. Allows peaceful state of Mind. Immunity to Psychological Mass Effect and Hypnotism.

The Gamer's Body – Grants the user a body to live life like a video game, Immunity to Physical Damage, but not the pain. Sleeping in a bed fully restores HP/Energy, Sleeping in a tent restores HP/Energy by 75% of total amount, and sleeping on an improvised surface (a couch, the ground) restores HP/Energy by 50% of maximum amount.

Made of Iron – You can survive your HP going down to zero, and you only need four hours and ten minutes of sleep to function perfectly. (Downside, you have to bed before 2 A.M. or else you pass out.)

Fighter – All attacks deal 10% more damage. (+15 HP) (Augmented by Anasatsuken fighting style)

Brute – Damage is increased by 15%

Gatherer - Chance for double harvest of foraged items. (20% chance of double harvest)

[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%)

Beginner's Shinobi Sandals – Footwear – Sandals befitting that the genin shinobi of the Naruto world. Taken from the Naruto gamer worlds, these sandals are basic but provide solid comfort and protection (+2 Speed, +1 Defense)

[Relationships]

Sandy – 4.40/10 Hearts – 1100 Friendship Points

Pam – 1.4/10 Hearts – 350 Friendship Points

Lewis – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points

Pierre – 2.4/10 Hearts – 600 Friendship Points

Robin – 1/10 Hearts – 250 Friendship Points

Abigail – 3.6/10 Hearts – 901 Friendship Points

Caroline – .40/10 Hearts – 100 Friendship Points

George – 1.4/10 Hearts – 350 Friendship Points

Evelyn – 1.4/10 Hearts – 350 Friendship Points

Alex – .40/10 Hearts – 100 Friendship Points

Harvey – 1.4/10 Hearts – 350 Friendship Points

Maru – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points

Linus – 1.7/10 Hearts – 425 Friendship Points

Gus (and Cosette) – 3/10 Hearts – 750 Friendship Points

Sebastian – 2.4/10 Hearts – 600 Friendship Points

Haley – 1/10 Hearts – 250 Friendship Points

Emily – 1/10 – 250 Friendship Points

Penny – 3.2/10 – 800 Friendship Points

Jas – .40/10 Hearts – 100 Friendship Points

Vincent – 1/10 Hearts – 250 Friendship Points

Demetrius – 1/10 Hearts – 260 Friendship Points

Clint – .40/10 Hearts – 100 Friendship Points

Willy – 1.40/10 Hearts – 350 Friendship Points

Leah – 10/10 Hearts – 2500 Friendship Points

Marnie – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points

Elliot – 0.4/10 Hearts – 100 Friendship Points

Shane – 1.2/10 Hearts – 305 Friendship Points

Sam – 1.7/10 Hearts – 430 Friendship Points

(Status of the Farm)

Column 1:

Row 1) Parnsip (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 2) Parnsip (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 3) Parnsip (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 4) Parnsip (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 5) Parnsip (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 6) Wild Seeds (SP) (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/6)

Row 7) Wild Seeds (SP) (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/6)

Row 8) Wild Seeds (SP) (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/6)

Row 9) Rhubarb (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/12)

Row 10) Rhubarb (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/12)

Row 11) Parnsip (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 12) Parnsip (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Column 2:

Row 1) Parnsip (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 2) Parnsip (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 3) Parnsip (Days in the Soil: 2/4)

Row 4) Rhubarb (Days in the Soil: 2/13)

Row 5) Wild Seeds (SP) (Days in the Soil: 2/7)

Row 6) Wild Seeds (SP) (Days in the Soil: 2/7)

Row 7) Wild Seeds (SP) (Days in the Soil: 2/7)

Row 8) Wild Seeds (SP) (Days in the Soil: 2/7)

Row 9) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)

Row 10) Potatoes (Basic Fertiziler) (Days in the Soil: 1/6)

Row 11) Beans (Basic Fertiziler) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)

Row 12) Potatos (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 1/6)

Column 3:

Row 1) Beans (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 1/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)

Row 2) Potatoes (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 1/6)

Row 3) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)

Row 4) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)

Row 5) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)

Row 6) Potatoes (Days in the Soil: 1/6)

Row 7) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/5)

Row 8) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/5)

Row 9) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/5)

Row 10) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/5)

Row 11) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/5)

Row 12) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/5)

Column 4:

[Empty]

Flower Box:

Slot 1) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 1/7)

Slot 2) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 1/7)

Slot 3) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 1/7)

Slot 4) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 1/7)

Slot 5) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 1/6)

Slot 6) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 1/6)

Slot 7) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 1/6)

Slot 8) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 1/6)

(Day 3 Total Profits: 0)

(Shadow Farm's Total Profits (This adds all the money made by the end of each day): 18,574 Gold)

---

[Status of the Pets]

Logan Maelstrom

Occupation: Farmer's Dog/Battle Pet

Class: Fighter (Warrior)

Level: 4

EXP: 40/70

Age: 1 Year (in Dog Years)

HP: 285/285

MP: 435/435

[Perks/Traits]

Active - These dogs are very energetic. They really like running and enjoy frequent walks. (Allows them to regain lost health easily)

Hunter - These dogs are natural hunters. Send them off into the world and they'll hunt and dig for things. (Starts off with Lv1 in Hunting, training in hunting is easier)

Loyal - These dogs want to be closer with their owners and love to be pet. They like to follow their owners around. (Easier to build relationships with them, will be more willing to guard the house, and protect its owner.)

Brave - No matter what, they will not back down when faced with danger. They will fight tooth and nail to defend who is precious to them. (If defeated in battle, will revive itself back with 50% of its HP once)

Fighter - They are of the fighter class making them a warrior. (They are more likely to assist if you are in danger. Will also fight enemies on its own.)

[Skills]

Hunting – The link dogs have to their predator ancestors. They will go out to hunt. Can possibly bring back a small animal, valuables, forage-able, or junk. The item depends on which area Logan is sent to hunt.

Combatant - Will be able to tactically fight in its own without the real need for commands.

[Attacks/Supportive Moves]

Bite - The target is bitten with viciously sharp fangs. This may also make the target flinch (30% chance of flinching) (Power: 40)

Howl - The user howls with the primal spirit of a wolf loudly to raise its spirit, which raises its Strength stat by 2.

Dig - The user burrows, then attacks on the second turn. It can also be used to exit dungeons. (Power: 60)

[Stats]

Strength: 10

Defense: 10

Dexterity: 10

Intelligence: 10

Charisma: 6

Wisdom: 7

[Items Equipped]

Wolf's Fang – Necklace (Pet Equip Item) – They say the wolf fang within the string allows dogs to connect to their primal ancestors as it is imbued with a mysterious energy. (Biting attacks will do 10% more damage and Hunting's likelihood of bringing junk is decreased by 10%)

Tom Maelstrom

Occupation: Farmer's Cat/Battle Pet

Class: Thief (Ninja)

Level: 5

EXP: 35/60

Age: 1 Cat Year (15 Human Years)

HP: 300/300

MP: 335/335

[Perks/Traits]

Clever - These cats are fast learners, and some say that they can even understand human speech when spoken to! (Will be more likely to understand commands and be more perceptive to conversations by humans.) They will also be more tactical in the battle, able to fight without the need for a command.

Friendly - These pets tend to be friendly towards people and will happily greet others around them. (Easier to befriend and can help aid to befriend other people)

Glutton - These pets will eat significantly more often, and much more messily. (Will eat slightly more, can sniff out food within a mile radius.)

Ninja - Stealthy in the day, will sneak in the shadows of night as a true member of the rouge class. (Will prefer to assist the master or fellow combatants than fight on its own)

[Skills]

Food Seeker – Can use its nose to seek out food as long as it has a scent.

Hunting – The link cats have to their predator ancestors. They will go out to hunt. Can possibly bring back a small animal, valuables, forage-able, or junk. The item depends on which area Tom is sent to hunt.

Ninja Cat - Could potentially learn genjutsu, taijutsu, and ninjutsu. Gains to dexterity will be much easier and there are potential level up bonuses.

[Attacks/Supportive Moves]

Thief - The user attacks and steals the target's held item simultaneously. (Stolen items will appear in the master's inventory, if that inventory is full, then no item can be stolen.) (Power: 25)

Crossroad Killing - The user slashes the target the instant an opportunity arises. Critical hits land more easily (chance for a critical is at 40%) (Power: 70)

Shadow Divide - By moving rapidly, the user makes illusory copies of itself to raise its evasiveness (Ups Dexterity by 2, Chance to confuse enemies).

Aqua Jet - The user lunges at the target at a speed that makes it almost invisible. This move always goes first, and it gains a Water elemental bonus. (Power: 40) (This attack cost 20 MP)

[Stats]

Strength: 9

Defense: 10

Dexterity: 10

Intelligence: 10

Charisma: 10

Wisdom: 10

[Items Equipped]

Reunion Cape – Back Item (Pet Equip Item) – This cape was woven with softness and the love of a Yoba Priestess. It's blessed, and if the person wearing it is lost, it will warp back to its loved ones.

---

[SAVE GAME]

….

[GAME SAVED]

---

(A/N: It's been over a month, but I finally did it! My next chapter will not be long as this as that would be nuts. I'm thinking of doing a chapter focusing on the side of the other characters as an interlude to skip to the day when the mines are opened. I'm considering it. Either way, Taeko got a lot done here and he'll have to train Logan next. If you're curious of the formula for how I calculate damage, it's as follows: The formula was inspired by Pokémon's damage formula.)

Damage = ((Level/5)*(Power of said technique)*(Strength stat/Defense Stat)/10)*10

For critical hits, double the level before dividing it by five.

(Continued A/N: And I sowed the seeds for the long-term quest and revealed a dark secret of Clint's. Yeah, Clint's kind of boring and a bit unlikeable in the game. Not only are his work hours the most inconvenient compared to the other places, his boring "nice guy" act is grinding on gear. Along with his attraction to Emily can get annoying as well (especially if you're trying to date her in the game). However, I spared Clint most of my ire because Demetrius was far worse. So, enjoy, Clint's weirdness.)

(Remastered A/N: It's really ironic how Clint is well less weird in the later chapters, he definitely still has that RealDoll. The only reason Taeko will likely bring it up again is because Clint was smart enough to keep it stashed away better. Aside from that, I nailed the errors and the grammar.)