The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 11 – Mine Madness!
Friday, the 5th of Spring, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
[LOAD GAME]
…
[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]
Taeko woke up with a stretch and trudged outside to get Logan and Tom some air. The game had triggered a cutscene that got him to wake up earlier in the morning (around 12 A.M.) and end up at the community center seeing the Junimos before meeting Lewis there. He got the history from the old mayor as he was toured through it. After Lewis left, he was greeted by the Wizard who gave him a brew to be able to understand Junimos before being told to visit him before the Wizard took off. When that cut scene ended, Taeko found him back in his bed rested and waking up for the morning. The swordsman checked his mail idly.
"Let's see, wine from Penny telling me to stash this from her mom, a letter from Sandy asking me to check up on Penny, letter from the Adventurer's Guild, and one from Joja telling me access to the mines to…o…pen." Taeko said dropping that last letter.
A happy grin broke on his face as he sprang up to the roof of his home and shouted to the sky, "TTTHHHHHEEEE MIIIIINNNNEEEEES!"
He did not care if it woke up the town. His good mood was through the roof. He had to clean up and get ready for the day. Abigail was shaken awake by Taeko's yell falling out of her bed. However, she remembered that Marlon and Gil were returning.
"Taeko's going to get a move ahead!" Abigail said rushing to the shower.
A small part of her was fearful of the mines, but she would have to swallow her fear. This time, she donned her usual boots and jeans, but sprang for a dark blue hoodie. Getting Espada on her side, she rushed down to make her breakfast before leaving past her parents. Rushing down the path, she didn't stop until she was in Shadow Farm. There was Taeko, all done up in wear for a fight. Taeko wore a form-fitting a fishnet shirt underneath an azure kimono, matching hakama, a black obi around his waist, and black kung fu shoes with azure sport tape around the ankles and heels. He also wore a flowing black tailcoat, with his sword by his side, and the [Emerald Ring] on his finger. Abigail felt so plainly dressed compared to him.
"I feel so underdressed." Abigail said. "You look like walked off the set of a Ninja Gaiden movie."
"You just started, and to be fair, I used to put a bit of money to get outfits like this for cosplay." Taeko admitted sheepishly. "Now I just water the farm and feed Reiju. But seeing you're here, you can water the crops. I need to get the [Parsnips] out."
Abigail nodded and Taeko got to collect his grown crops. He felt proud of his first successful harvest hauling in eight parsnips of varying qualities which he immediately put in the fridge for later. He also made sure to store most of his [Wood], all his [Stone], all his [Fiber], his [Copper Bar], and all his [Sap]. He did take the cookies and some Joja Cola for the trip after eating a quick breakfast. Abigail came into the house.
"Reiju's laid eggs about 3 of them. They're brown." Abigail said, handing them over to Taeko to which put them in the fridge.
"Thanks, Abs. Now I just need to get a few things." Taeko said getting a few items for the bundles.
He had gotten the bundle challenges from the community center. Of course, he was given the option to buy Joja's membership and make that place a storage hole. Despite the Joja membership could make fixes to the town easier, Taeko adamantly chose the bundles. Taeko got a few items for the bundles he could fill up: the Spring Foraging Bundle, Exotic Foraging Bundle, Lake Fish Bundle, and Blacksmith's Bundle. With those items gathered, Taeko and Abigail departed with Taeko leaving a note at the farmhouse, "Off Monster Hunting, Please Leave a Letter and I'll Get Back to You!"
[BGM Triggered: Mewmore / 'Route 15' (Remix) from Pokémon X and Y]
Taeko whistled the tune of the background music as Logan and Tom followed the pair through the backwoods. Taeko made sure to scoop up a Dandelion he spotted before swinging around down to the mountain into town with Taeko wanting to enter the community center.
"Taeko, that place is…locked?" Abigail said before Taeko opened the door.
[Community Center BGM Triggered: Jinsang - Past Memory]
Taeko crept in with the pets and Abigail behind him. Abigail looked around the torn-up place with a bit of sadness before jumping in surprise.
"Did you see that?" Abigail asked. "That green thing."
That was a surprise.
"Wait a second, you can see the Junimos?" Taeko asked in surprise. "I had to get a brew shoved in me just to be able to see them and understand them!"
"Brew? From the Wizard! You met the Wizard!" Abigail said shocked. "But the Wizard rarely enters town."
"He came to me last night; told me I had some destiny and that I would need it. Also invited me to visit him on occasion." Taeko explained.
Abigail's eyes went wide before grabbing Taeko up the tailcoat.
"Do you realize what that means? M. Rasmodius is considering one of the most powerful elementals in the world and if he sees something in you, then something big is going to happen." Abigail said with stars in your eyes. "It would explain how you came in like a hurricane into this town."
"I don't really believe in destiny." Taeko said sheepishly. "I'm a man of action."
"So, why are we here?" Abigail asked.
"Offerings for Junimos. They don't want Joja to poison this land either, so a deal was me. I bring offerings to them, and they repair stuff in the shadows. I need you to keep this a secret…the fact that you can see them would have hard to hide." Taeko mused seriously.
"I'll keep this between us. If you're working to save this place, then I won't get in the way. I'll wait outside." Abigail said leaving. "And I'll keep watch."
Abigail left and Taeko went to the crafts room first to trigger the golden scroll in there. A menu came up with a list of bundles to fill and Taeko filled one of them.
[Spring Foraging Bundle]
Dandelion [X]
Daffodil [X]
Leek [X]
Wild Horseradish [X]
With that bundle done, the scroll glowed, and a text box pinged up.
[Bundle complete! Reward of Spring Seeds (30) added to your Inventory. Minor game glitch fixed, Wild Seed (SP) will be referred to as Spring Seeds.]
"Sweet, for the exotic foraging bundle." Taeko said entering the Cactus Fruit into the slot. "It's one step on the long haul."
Taeko went to the boiler room's golden screen and entered a Copper Bar into the Blacksmith's Bundle while chowing down on the last of his leeks.
"Well, that's it for now." Taeko said leaving the community center with his pets.
[BGM Triggered: Mewmore / 'Route 15' (Remix) from Pokémon X and Y]
"So, how did it go?" Abigail asked him.
"One bundle is done, and I started two others. I'll just need to swing back home to drop off some seeds." Taeko said with a nod.
The group of four broke into a run with Taeko swiftly dropping off the seeds in a storage run as the group arrived back at the mountain lake before eight thirty in the morning. A text box pinged for a quest as Abigail nervously brought up the idea of going to the guild first.
[Story Quest: Initiation]
Marlon and Gil had heard of your skills and sought to test you. Enter the mines and slay ten slimes! Bring back 10 Slime(s) as proof!
Quest Objective: Slay 10 Slimes!
Go to the Guild with 10 Slime(s).
Bonus Objective: Slay the Super Slime on Level 5!
Quest Reward: Access to the Adventurer's Guild
Bonus Objective Reward: 2,500 Gold
Accept? Y/N
Taeko hit yes before turning to Abigail.
"We can't…or at least I can't. I got a letter from those two saying if I wanted entrance I had to go in here and slay a few slimes." Taeko said, showing her the letter.
[Mines Main Floor BGM Unlocked: Reflection Cave - Pokémon X & Y]
Abigail was slowly paling as Taeko, and his pets entered the mine and she followed behind. Abigail's nerves were on edge as while she had been within the Mines, she had heard tales of terror from within.
[Combat Skill re-registered! Crafting recipes for Sturdy Ring, Life Elixir, Roots Platter, Warrior Ring, Slime Egg-Press, Oil of Garlic, Ring of Yoba, Slime Incubator, Explosive Ammo, and Iridium Band are available. Fighter perk activated; HP is increased by 15. Brute perk is frozen until further notice.]
Taeko rolled his eyes at that but was glad for the update. Abigail was getting more nervous by the second but swallowed her fear as they all gathered at the ladder going down. A bat flew up smacking the girl in the face before flying away.
"Eh, it was just a-WAAHHHHHH!" Abigail said as a hoard of bats flew up swarming the cave.
Taeko would have been a bit frightened had it not been for Gamer's Mind working its effects. Abigail fell flat on her behind, backing away in fear as the bats fled the mines. Taeko had walked up to help her up. Before Abigail could speak, Taeko had a warm reassuring look as Logan licked her face.
"Don't worry, this is your first time. Normally, I'd be jumpy, but I've had training to suppress fear." Taeko said partly half-lying to hide his Gamer powers. "No shame in being scared."
"Thanks…but..." Abigail said before Logan yipped.
"Don't sweat it, Abigail. You got me and the battle pets by your side." Taeko remarked. "Everyone has to start somewhere. I was a frightened fighter too at one point. Besides, have faith in your weapon and yourself, and your fear will subside."
Abigail straightened herself up and shot down the ladder first, leaving Taeko to only smirk and go after her with the pets. He had no idea that he went above and beyond in getting smack dab in Abigail's good graces.
[Mine Brown Earth Floors BGM Unlocked: Amp Plains - Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time/Darkness]
[Floor 1]
Near the ladder back up was a [Rusty Sword], and Taeko picked it up. Simply put, he wanted to try some two sword techniques. The first floor was lit up with cave lights having stones to break and enemies littered around. Taeko immediately used [Observe].
[Enemy – Slime (Green Variant) – Slimes are a byproduct of nature colliding with sludge. Thankfully, these slimes detoxify sludge, but tend to be hostile around other creatures. They attack by a rolling attack or by bounce. They can also bounce off objects for momentum. Being hit by a Slime will give you the Slimed debuff. Male slimes tend to have tails and can mate with females to produce more. Male slimes also tend to have 25% more health over the base HP, and 1 more damage. When it is passive and is attacked, male slimes have a 2.5% chance to increase its damage by 50% while shaking. The green variant are the weakest as they stay above ground and don't go too deep underground. Stats: HP (24 – female, 30 – male) / Damage (3 – female/ 4 – male) / Speed (2) / EXP Given (3) / Drops: (Yes)]
[Enemy – Mutant Bug – Ordinary bugs that have mutated due to the climate and bug spray over the years. These bugs are also called, "Bumrush Bugs". They are speedy glass cannons able to hit hard but can't take blows. They fly in all direction attacking with bites and tackles. Stats: HP (1) / Damage (8) / Defense (0) / Speed (3) / EXP Given (1) / Drops: Yes]
[Enemy – Duggy – The real-life creature that inspired the Pikmin games. Unlike the Pikmin, these creatures are utter bastards. They live in the soil and attack with popping out the ground with headbutts. While they have no defense, they had the edge of having a lot of health and solid attack. Stats: HP (40) / Damage (6) / Defense (0) / Speed (2) / EXP Given (10) / Drops: Yes]
[Enemy – Rock Crabs – These crabs are tougher than most crabs with their pinchers able to deal with stone. Their shells are solid stone giving them a solid shield against attacks. They hide by disguising themselves as ordinary stones by being immobile. Pickaxes are recommended against their shells. Stats: HP (30) / Damage (5) / Defense (1) / Speed (2) / EXP Given (4) / Drops: Yes]
"So, we're dealing with mutants. Bring it then!" Taeko said unsheathing Eclipse. "Logan, use Howl!"
Logan let a howl that was heard throughout the floor as it rose his attack stats. Slimes were moving towards them. Tom's claws glowed white readying a [Crossroad Killing] before slashing through two slimes. Damage split between the two was enough to off them both as they left behind Slime and Sap when vanished into Taeko's inventory.
[Double Kill! Tom gains 6 EXP + 2!]
Logan bolted forward using [Bite] to tear into enemies. Taeko and Abigail readied themselves before charging ahead hacking and slashing any enemy in the way. Abigail's strikes were a bit slower, but precise. Thanks to Emerald Ring, Taeko was quick on the draw. He leapt into the air readying his swords.
"[Nitoryu: Taka Nami]!" Taeko said using his blades to create a powerful gust of wind to tear up some stones, a rock crab, and a duggy.
"Check it out, three whole amethysts and a topaz." Abigail said before noticing a crab. "And a crab."
"Keep the amethysts. I know you love them, but I want the rest." Taeko said taking up the rest for inventory.
Taeko also found a cherry bomb to which he tossed into a pile of rocks to explode to reveal a ladder heading downward.
"Come on, boys. We're moving!" Taeko said as Tom and Logan trotted up with a few bruises.
[Logan slayed 3 Duggy(s) and a Slime! 33 EXP Earned! 1 Slime, 2 Geode(s), and a Diamond added to your Inventory! Hunting Skill Improved! Logan leveled up to Level 5, five points are available to spend on stats. Logan's HP/MP increased by 5.]
Taeko was wide-eyed at that, but another text box came up.
[Tom slayed 5 Bugs, and a Slime! 8 EXP Earned! 1 Slime and 5 Bug Meat(s) added to your Inventory.]
Taeko put three points to Logan's wisdom and put the last two in strength. Taeko looked at Abigail handing her a [Field Snack].
"It's not much, but it'll keep you energized." Taeko said as he ate one himself.
Abigail took one and scarfed it down before going down the ladder. Taeko took up the stones dropped from the blast before he and his pets went down.
"Just five more slimes to go." Taeko thought to himself.
[Floor 2]
The second floor was rather quiet save for a slime who got a lucky shot at Tom who whined about being slimed.
[Tom's HP: 295/300 | Slimed debuff: Speed -4 for 3.5 Seconds]
Tom was bounced back before Taeko backhanded the goop ball into the wall and stabbed it repeatedly with the [Rusty Sword]. Tom was fine but was moving slowly for a few seconds before the slime on his body got off him.
"Abigail, start cracking or flipping over rocks. Our ladder down in hidden somewhere." Taeko said, sheathing his blade and swapping the [Rusty Sword] out for his [Pickaxe].
Abigail nodded and the two got to wrecking rocks. Stones would pile into his inventory with every broken stone. Taeko did crack open an amethyst node and a gem node containing a Jade much to his interest. He would receive another text box.
[Mining skill leveled up to 2! +1 Pickaxe proficiency. Staircase crafting recipe unlocked!]
Taeko looked up the staircase recipe and was overjoyed to see a recipe for instant stairs down a mine but balked at the cost.
"99 Stones! I shouldn't be surprised at this point." Taeko said to himself as Abigail found the ladder down to the next floor.
The four went down further.
((Music Paused))
Meanwhile, at the Stardew Museum, Penny was teaching Jas and Vincent the subject of history. Vincent was drifting off while Jas was paying attention. Penny shook Vincent awake gently.
"Vincent, you seem rather tired today?" Penny said warmly.
"Sorry, Miss Leanna, but I didn't sleep well. I kept trying weird moaning sounds from my mom's room, buzzing, and her screaming my dad's name. I was too scared to ask what's wrong." Vincent said a bit spooked.
Penny froze flashing back to a similar experience in her childhood except unlike him, she got up.
"I suggest getting earplugs. I'll take you out to get them after school." Penny said assuring him. "Just try to stay awake."
Vincent nodded and tried his best.
((Music Unpaused))
[Floor 5]
Taeko had gotten the ten slimes a floor ago, but he wanted the challenge. Tom and Logan were mostly aiding Abigail and playing defense. The fifth was empty as the elevator next to the ladder back up lit up.
"So, we're done here?" Abigail said.
Taeko noticed a pair of crowns on the ground as the ground shook.
[BGM Unlocked: Dragon Ball Advanced Adventure – Battle Tension]
Green slime seeped from the walls and the ceilings as it surrounded the crowns formed into two huge slimes with one male and one female. Their shade of green was closer to puke green, and Abigail paled.
"Fuck." Abigail spat as Taeko used [Observe].
[Bonus Boss – King and Queen Green Slime – These slimes are known by many warriors as the oldest of the green slimes. They lived for so long by eating their unlucky victims and absorbing their life force. Thus, they have mutated beyond an ordinary green slime. They attack by firing smaller slimes, spraying goop, or eye beams. They can also bounce off objects for momentum. Being hit by these slimes won't give you the Slimed de-buff, but instead put you at risk for light poisoning by 5%. The effects of male/female stats are similar. Stats: HP (2400 – Queen, 3000 – King) / Damage (30-300 – Queen / 40-400 – King) / Speed (5) / EXP Given (?) / Drops: (?)]
"Well shit." Taeko thought.
"One of us…you all become one of us." The King spoke in a distorted yet waterlogged voice.
[Boss BGM Unlocked: Battlefield – Super Smash Bros. Brawl]
King Slime sprayed goo right after them as the four scattered for the ground as the goo splattered on the wall. Swapping his pickaxe out for his blades, Taeko readied himself.
"Logan! Don't attack! Focusing on covering Tom. Tom, use [Crossroad Killing] and [Aqua Jet] to put dent in it!" Taeko said, gaining his footing.
Tom was able to land a slash with his [Crossroad Killing] but was punched into the wall trapped to the wall stuck in slime. Tom mewled with pain glaring at the slimes. Logan charged in to help by digging at the slime.
[Tom's HP: 185]
"Hey, green, goopy, and gruesome!" Abigail said, throwing a rock hitting the Queen Slime to get their attention. "Over here!"
Queen Slime sprayed goop in her direction. Taeko needed to think fast and got in front of Abigail. He hoped that he could rip from other series.
"[Blade Beam]!" Taeko said as Eclipse glowed.
A green shockwave was launched from Eclipse, using a rising sword slash to make it. The green shockwave tore through the goop attack and delivered a glancing blow to the Queen. King Slime shot out tentacles after them to which Abigail rolled out to slice as many of them to defend Taeko. However, the king was not aiming for him. One tentacle swatted her sword off her hand and another subdued her lifting her into the air.
"Abigail! Gack!" Taeko said.
The Queen Slime had gotten him with eye beams and goop, sending himself into the wall.
[Critical Hit! Current HP: 370/670 | Poisoned (-3 HP for minute (9:59)]
Taeko still felt pain all over as he fall onto the ground.
"Taeko!" Abigail called out as he staggered to his feet.
Abigail had a bad feeling about the king as its tendrils were rubbing between her legs as she fought against it.
"Hey, this isn't a hentai! Back off!" Abigail said before two tendrils yanked up her hoodie exposing her torso exposing a black bandeau top. "Oh, you're a dead bastard!"
Taeko staggered but steeled himself.
"[Nanajuni Pound Ho]!" Taeko said holding his two swords horizontally above the shoulder.
Taeko performs a circular swing that launches two air compressed projectiles spiraling towards King Slime slamming into him freeing Abigail. In the air, Abigail had her eyes on King Slime as they seemed to glow purple. Remembering what she learned from Taeko, she had a grin on her face.
"Sanjuroku Pound Ho!" Abigail said perfectly performing the circular swing that launches the air compressed projectile spiraling towards King Slime.
Taeko noticed that while she was doing this that her sword glowed purple, and the projectile launched was purple. The blast tore into King Slime combined with Taeko's attack causing King Slime to disperse and his crown to fall into the dirt. Abigail was caught by Taeko before being helped onto the ground.
"Abby, that was incredible!" Taeko said impressed.
Abigail was panting while admitting she had no idea how she managed it unaware she was awakening something to come. The Queen Slime roared firing eye beams down at them before they deflected it with their blades. The Queen was focusing on Taeko and Abigail, and the slime beast did not notice that Tom was freed, and Logan was queasy.
Logan opens its mouth and spits a ball of green sludge at Queen Slime's face blinding it.
[Logan has learned Sludge!]
"Now's time for the finale!" Taeko said panting. "This ends here!"
Taeko glowed a rainbow-like glow as his eyes shone a burning yellow. Abigail promptly took a step back and the pets scrambled out of the way as Eclipse lit ablaze.
"Do you see this you bottom feeding slime? The end of you is burning bright!" Taeko said before the game set in new music.
[Badass BGM Unlocked: Moeagare Toushi]
"I glow with an awesome power! Its burning aura is your sign of your defeat! SO, TAKE THIS! MY PAIN! MY DRIVE! AND ALL OF MY PASSION!" Taeko said determined as his sword had a layer of energy over it. "[Super Spirit Stab!]"
He performs a quick thrust with his sword forming an energy wave being fired though the energy which did not dissipate like a normal energy wave instead impaling the queen. Taeko performed a series of rapid thrust digging at the queen who was too large to try to dodge it with her weakening speed.
"Holy shit." Abigail muttered to herself. "I hit the jackpot."
The Queen was trying to escape, but Taeko jumped up before driving his sword down the middle of the Queen Slime through her crown until she was cleaved in two before the massive slime exploded splattering goop all the over the room.
[Music Ends / Victory Theme BGM: Smash 4's Final Fantasy Victory Theme]
It was finally over, and the text box confirmed it as Taeko rose to his feet.
[King and Queen Slime Defeated! Combat Skill already maxed out, so Energy limit has been increased to 500. Logan gains 200 EXP. Logan is now on Level 8! Tom gains 175 EXP. Tom is now on Level 8! Both pets have points to spend on their stats. 200 Slimes, 10 Sap, Craving Knife, and Dwarf Scroll I added to your Inventory.]
Slime melted away to reveal a treasure chest, but Taeko fell to his knees completely drained. All what he had done took out nearly all his energy.
[Current Energy: 2/500 | Exhausted]
"Taeko!" Abigail said coming to his aid as his pets trotted up.
"I'm completely exhausted, Abby. Don't worry, I'm not dead despite the injuries." Taeko said taking out a [Muscle Remedy] downing it.
That got rid of the exhausted debuff, but Taeko's energy was still in the low. Shoving all the cookies he had down his gullet had at least got him up to more than half.
[Current Energy: 272/500]
His health looked better, but Taeko deemed that he would not go down further. He was still rather shaky and he knew he could continue tomorrow.
"So, let's see about that treasure chest." Taeko said kicking it open.
"You being ok would have been enough, you know." Abigail said relieved.
Inside the treasure chest was a scroll that Taeko opened.
[Item - Ninpō: Kyōdo Kyōka (Ninja Art: Strength Enhancement) – This scroll contains the techniques that allow for a person to achieve a level of superhuman strength through the use of energy within the body to override the muscles.]
Taeko handed the scroll to Abigail as she needed that more than he did.
"This will definitely help give it more strength to your sword swing." Taeko said earnestly. "You've earned it."
They also found a sack of 20,000 Gold to which they split. Abigail was planning on rubbing her newfound money in her parents' face. They said being a swordswoman would never be a well-paying job. Next up were two discs labeled as battle discs.
[Item – Bounce Disc – This disc will teach the move Bounce to your pet, a two turn move with the tangent of air inflicting damage with a 30% chance of paralyzing it.]
[Item – Flame Wheel Disc - This disc will teach the move Flame Wheel to your pet, a move with the tangent of fire that can thaw out the user if it is frozen, and then inflict damage on the target. Flame Wheel also has a 10% chance of burning the target.]
"I'll take those." Taeko said making a quick choice in who got a new move.
Taeko used the Bounce Disc on Tom and the Flame Wheel Disc on Logan. Lastly within the chest was a crystal shard with a red core in the center.
[Item – Ramuh Magicite – Magicite are the postmortem remains of an esper from the universe of Final Fantasy VI. Like in the games, pieces of magicite teach the recipient magic and allowing them to use summons. This piece contains the esper Ramuh. (You can't use this due to your setup, but someone in this valley can.)]
"Whoa, this thing is the real deal." Taeko said holding it in his hand.
"What is it?" Abigail asked.
"Ever play a Final Fantasy game?" Taeko asked.
"I played 7." Abigail said as Taeko rolled his eyes. "What?"
"6 was totally superior, but that's just an opinion. This thing is a magicite and in that game using these would give one powers and summons to use. I don't think I can use it." Taeko said looking it over.
Abigail took it up and it glowed a bright red. She had no idea how, but her eyes shimmered before her body absorbed the stone into her body with bright light before it subsided.
"Ramuh." Abigail said quietly.
Abigail looked at Taeko asking him if he had a copy of 6 to which he explained he wound up losing it in a bet with Hikari.
"However, there is a wiki." Taeko said taking his Huniebee out. "And I'm surprised I get signal down here."
Taeko hastily looked it up and got Abigail the information she wanted to see.
"Okay…let me try something. Thunder!" Abigail said before firing out a weak electric attack that blew up two rocks. "Wicked!"
"Abigail, we should go to the guild." Taeko said taking up the pair of crowns. "We're both hurt, and its best we don't go on for now."
"You know, Taeko. I owe you a lot." Abigail said, looking to her sword. "It's like you walked in and gave the valley a jump start. A few days ago, I was just a wannabe with a sword she could barely use, but now I can call myself a rookie swordswoman. Thanks a bunch, Taeko."
"No need to tha-"Taeko said before being cut off by a surprise kiss from Abigail.
At that moment, everything around him seemed to vanish as he got his first taste of the valley. A few seconds and they broke away with Gamer's Mind calming Taeko's nerves.
[You've helped Abigail awaken her latent powers and got her fears of the Mines quashed! Friendship shot up to 5 Hearts! 4-heart scene unlocked! Due to your actions, you will encounter an alternate set of heart scenes in the future! Special Abigail-related quests are now unlocked.]
"And one thing before we go. When we go up and tell our story to the guys, it was a sports bra I had under this hoodie." Abigail said playing punching Taeko's shoulder.
"I think I'd rather not say anything about it. Now let's get out of here." Taeko said as the chest vanished.
The four hobbled into the elevator with the pairs of crowns in Taeko's hand. At the elevator took him up, the game explained to him that every five floors he'd find an elevator to use to skip levels he's been in.
[Music Ends]
The four got out of the cave and made their way to the guild. Marlon and Gil were setting up shop as it was about eleven. Stepbrothers Marlon and Gil Dawnstar came from a long line of monster hunters. Marlon's grandkids were off doing the family business out of the valley leaving Marlon to run the guild. He had long retired from mainline hunting due to his bad leg and lost eye, but he was still virile enough. Gil and Marlon were in the midst of a conversation with Lewis when Taeko, Abigail, Logan, and Tom waltzed in. Taeko hadn't even noticed he and Abigail both had blood from the mouth, but Marlon and Gil.
"What in the hell happened?" Marlon said dropping his sword as Lewis got the first-aid kit.
"Oh, just some bruises from the monsters. Abigail and I did your little initiation. Slayed 10 slimes and then some. We took on a King and Queen Slime." Taeko said holding up a pair of crowns.
Gil's eyes snapped open, Lewis' jaw hit the floor, and Marlon almost fell over. Gil took up the pair of crowns to examine them.
"Yup, hardened slime, metal, and a bit of copper. The jagged formation is also a tell-tale sign. This is the real deal. What color slime was it and what floor did you meet it?" Gil asked.
"It was puke green and on the fifth floor." Abigail stated.
"What? Fifth floor!" Marlon asked, shocked. "How?"
"The walls. It was able to seep their bodies through the walls. Frankly, it was unnerving, but we faced them and killed them." Taeko said as Logan yipped.
Lewis cleaned up the injuries on them both before Marlon took their headshots. At first, Abigail was confused before they were both handed cards naming them official members of the guild.
"You two have proven your worth to earn these. The International Adventurer and Hunter's Guild thanks you for your discovery. King and Queen Slimes were known to exist, but we did not know that there was a green variant. This will help other guilds across the globe be more prepared." Marlon said with a mirthful grin. "So, travel forth Taeko and Abigail. You two are official adventurers!"
[Story Quest: Initiation]
Marlon and Gil had heard of your skills and seek to test you. Enter the mines and slay ten slimes! Bring back 10 Slime(s) as proof!
Quest Objective: Slay 10 Slimes! (Complete!)
Go to the Guild with 10 Slime(s). (Complete!)
Bonus Objective: Slay the Super Slime on Level 5! (Masterful!)
Quest Reward: Access to the Adventurer's Guild
Bonus Objective Reward: 2,500 Gold
[With your Initiation complete, you can now enter the Mines whenever you like, sell monster loot (whether through the sell bin at the farm or at the guild), and buy supplies at the guild! Go forth and fight, player!]
Marlon gave the rundown of the card's purpose which was information Taeko already got. Taeko even got the rusted blade replaced with a [Wooden Blade] as a gift from Marlon. Taeko had left with his pets and Abigail.
"I'm beat…I'm heading back to my place for a nap, but I'll have to see Gunther and go to the center first." Taeko said winded. "So, this is goodbye for now."
"Later, Taeko. I need to go home and rub this card and my loot in my parents' faces." Abigail said, running off for home.
Taeko was glad for the ninja sandals as it made running so much easier. He dashed to the community center unknown someone had noticed him. Going back to the boiler room, he opened the golden scroll there entering 99 [Slime] into the Adventurer's Bundle.
"The Junimos ask for so much, but the rewards are so fulfilling." Taeko said to himself.
"Rewards?" A voice said.
Immediately, Taeko summoned the [Craving Knife] from his inventory and whirled around to see it was Sebastian.
"Oh, thank god, it's something I can trust." Taeko said putting the knife away.
"So, what's with the golden scroll?" Sebastian asked.
"I'll put it this way. Forest guardians put them there for me to make offerings in exchange for rewards and favors." Taeko said.
"Makes sense. So, it's like the quests in our games." Sebastian said leaning against the wall. "Anything I could do to help?"
"Well, the Crab Pot Bundle is rather simple. If you could find a cockle, mussel, oyster, and/or a clam, it would help." Taeko said as they high fived. "And keep this secret. Only Abby knows about this."
"So, it's Abby now?" Sebastian teased.
"Oh, shove it." Taeko clapped back. "Maybe, I could pay Maru a visit."
"Please do." Sebastian said partly sarcastic. "Anything to piss off my shitstain of stepdad."
"Well either way, I'm an official member of the guild now. Me and Abby got our licenses." Taeko said with a smirk.
"Well then, we should celebrate. Lunch's on me." Sebastian said as the two left the center.
Abigail returned to her store to see her mother fret over the bandages on her and her father raising an eyebrow.
"What happened to you?" Caroline asked concerned.
"A step towards my dream, mom. Taeko helped me to make it happen." Abigail said with newfound assurance. "I got my license from the guild."
Caroline stammered, and Pierre could only chuckle when Abigail showed them it. Caroline's jaw went down when Abigail hauled in her bag of loot.
"10,000 flat today. I know I won't bring it that much every day, but with the fact that I can sell anything I get off the monsters to the guild whenever I go down the mines gives a solid job." Abigail said, taking out some of the gold. "Dad, you can get the fridge units, so we can sell frozen stuff."
"Don't you have to pass a test to get one of these?" Caroline asked.
"It was actually Taeko's test, but I went along with him. Wound up in a heck of a fight and made a discovery that impressed Marlon enough to get me a license." Abigail said nonchalantly. "With this, I can do what I always wanted to do and bring money home."
Caroline could only sigh as the family needed the money, and Abigail was happy with what she accomplished.
"Well, I can't deny the smile on your face." Caroline said with a small smile. "But I'm going to deck that Taeko boy when I see him. Corrupting my baby girl and making a fight-happy loon."
Abigail rolled her eyes and hauled her loot into her room.
"You think something going on between them too?" Pierre said with a bit of surprise.
"I know so." Caroline said flatly.
Taeko had scampered to the museum after lunch sending his pets home to rest. He entered the museum bumping into Penny.
"Oh, sorry about that, Pen." Taeko said sheepishly.
"Taeko, what happened to you?" Penny said worriedly looking at the bandages on his body.
"Monster fighting. I'm licensed to do that now." Taeko said walking up to the counter handing Gunther the Dwarf Scroll, Topaz, Jade, and Diamond.
"That's so cool!" Vincent said with his eyes beaming.
[You've impressed Vincent with you "coolness". +50 Friendship Points]
"Well, thanks V." Taeko said before turning to Penny. "Sorry I worried you."
"It's ok. Sorry, that I'm in a bit of a rush. I need to see Clint." Taeko said readying to go waving goodbye to Gunther.
"Be wary of Clint. He's kind of creepy." Jas said.
Taeko had a blank face praying Jas did not know about the dirty details, but the looks in her eyes spoke that she knew something.
"Jas, that's not nice. Clint's a fine member of our town who just keeps to himself." Penny said.
Taeko snorted at that and said goodbye. Poor innocent Penny. Taeko entered Westwood and Sons. Clint was texting on his phone but stood at attention seeing Taeko.
"Hey Clint, I just need these two Geodes cracked open and 20 Copper Ores." Taeko said. "How much I owe ya?"
"775." Clint said.
Using the crafting menu, Taeko had a furnace formed. He gave up the two geodes for cracking. Clint cracked the first one to find…[Limestone], and the second one had [Granite]. Both unimpressive minerals, but Taeko was able to take them to hand them off to Gunther.
"Well, you've donated over ten items, Taeko. So, I have a reward for your deeds. [Melon Seeds], a set of nine. You can grow them in the summer." Gunther said, giving Taeko the pack.
"Saved me seed money. Plus, Penny loves melons." Taeko thought.
Taeko trudged onward deciding to see Leah and walked into her cabin unknowingly triggering a heart event.
"No, I'm not moving back with you, bastard! I don't care if you got a nice apartment overlooking the city." Leah said before hanging up the phone. "Oh, Taeko…you're here."
"Let me guess, Kel?" Taeko asked.
"Yeah, him again. I swear he's as bad as his twin sister, Kelly." Leah said rolling her eyes. "You don't think I'm selfish for leaving?"
"No. I left for similar reasons, Leah. To peruse better things." Taeko said warmly hugging her. "Never forget that."
Her laptop pinged, and Leah ran over to it.
"Well, I just got my first commission for a sculpture. Do you know a gallantSAN42?" Leah asked.
"Ugh, him. Let's just say he's a fanatic for Princess Daisy and mermaids. I can bet half my crops, it's one or the other." Taeko said wishing internally he was reminded of him.
"Well, it's of Princess Daisy….a small statue of her as a topless mermaid." Leah said reading the request.
Taeko looked at Leah asked if she was going to refuse it.
"He's already offered to send me a quarter of the payment on . I'm doing it." Leah said determined.
"Good luck going down that rabbit hole." Taeko said leaving.
Heading home, he set the second furnace next to the first one. Getting the last of his coal and some copper ore, he set the two to smelt.
"Now to offload into the selling bin." Taeko said with a huff.
Taeko put into the bin an Amethyst, all the Bug Meat he had on him, one of normal Parsnips, and seven pieces of Slime. Closing it, he went back inside to offload putting the wine, Joja Cola, cookies, field snacks, and crab in the fridge. He also shoved the melon seeds in the storage chest and got out 15 spring seeds. In a rush, he planted and watered them.
"Whew, I'm beat." Taeko said panting. "That's it, I'm done for today."
Taeko plopped down on his couch to put on the television, but before spending the stats to improve Tom and Logan.
[STATS]
Taeko Kiba Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer/Freelancer Ronin
Age: 20 years
HP: 670/670
Energy: 500/500
Overall Level: Tiller
Farming Skill Level: 2
Mining Skill Level: 2
Foraging Skill Level: 4
Fishing Skill Level: 2
Combat Skill Level: 10
Gold: 21791
Taeko is a former employee of the corrupt Joja Corporation. Screwing it over, he got away with it free to chase his dreams and ambitions. An anti-hero and a roughneck, he won't take crap from no-one. Now he's the head farmer of Shadow Farm along with being essentially a ronin. His favorite food is pepperoni pizza. His favorite gifts tend to center around gaming, manga, and combat.
[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% (Frozen until further noticed)
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 – 5/10 Hearts – 1250 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 – 1.2/10 Hearts – 300 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) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 4) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 5) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 6) Spring Seeds (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 4/6)
Row 7) Spring Seeds (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 4/6)
Row 8) Spring Seeds (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 4/6)
Row 9) Rhubarb (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 4/12)
Row 10) Rhubarb (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 4/12)
Row 11) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 12) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
[Column 2]
Row 1) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 4) Rhubarb (Days in the Soil: 4/13)
Row 5) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 6) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 7) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 8) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 4/7)
Row 9) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 3/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 10) Potatoes (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 11) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 3/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 12) Potatoes (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Column 3:
Row 1) Beans (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 3/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 2) Potatoes (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 3) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 4) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 3/5)
Row 5) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 3/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 6) Potatoes (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 7) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 8) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 9) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 10) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 11) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 12) Potatoes (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
[Column 4]
Row 1) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 4) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 5) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
[Flower Box]
Slot 1) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 3/7)
Slot 2) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 3/7)
Slot 3) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 3/7)
Slot 4) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 3/7)
Slot 5) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Slot 6) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Slot 7) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Slot 8) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
(Day 5 Total Profits: 226) (12,726 counting the Slime Quest)
(Shadow Farm's Total Profits (This adds all the money made by the end of each day): 31,300 Gold)
[Status of the Pets]
Logan Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer's Dog/Battle Pet
Class: Fighter (Warrior)
Level: 8
EXP: 23/90
Age: 1 Year (in Dog Years)
HP: 290/290
MP: 440/440
[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. (Current Level: Artful Hunter (2))
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 (Artful Hunter) – The link dogs have to their predator ancestors; this dog has a feel for what's valuable and what is not. Can possibly bring back valuables, forage-ables, or junk. The item depends on which area Logan is sent to hunt. (Likelihood of junk item is decreased by 2%).
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) (This move can be upgraded)
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)
Sludge - The user hurls out unsanitary sludge at the target with a 30% Chance of a Poison debuff. (Power: 65) (This move cost 20 MP and can be upgraded)
Flame Wheel - The user cloaks itself in fire and charges at the foe, and can thaw out the user if it is frozen. (Power: 60) (This move cost 25 MP)
[Stats]
Strength: 15
Defense: 12
Dexterity: 11
Intelligence: 11
Charisma: 11
Wisdom: 11
[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: 8
EXP: 14/96
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)
Bounce - The user bounces up high, then drops on the target on the second turn. This may also leave the target with a 30% chance of paralysis. (Power: 85)
[Stats]
Strength: 15
Defense: 13
Dexterity: 13
Intelligence: 11
Charisma: 11
Wisdom: 11
[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: What a doozy! So much to write, so little time. I stayed up fairly late for this one. I'm happy with the results of this one. Monsters and mayhem. I'm just glad it's finally done! As for Abigail's sudden jump in friendship, let me explain. Anyone who's played the game knows Abigail doesn't go into the mines until 10 hearts. So, Taeko inadvertently helped her big time. The bundles are something I made a small change to. Originally, there was a bit of a linear path to which ones you can do, but I wrote it as all were available to focus on Taeko getting the needed items. I'm making sure to keep track of them. Hope you like the new moves and twists. Abigail's powers had begun to awaken. See all of you next time on Maelstrom of Stardew! Edit – 7/9/2018 – Both this and the previous were edited for a general cleaning up. I apologize for the errors, as I want to deliver quality work. Thank you for reading.)
(Remastered A/N: Much to my relief, minor errors. Still a quality chapter.)