The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 14 – Most Hate Mondays
Monday, the 8th of Spring, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
(A/N: A lot of people reviewing the 13th chapter and I do thank you all for it. Considering your words and requests, handling San will be tricky. For one, the point of the domestication route is a double meaning. Let see who figures it out.)
[LOAD GAME]
…
[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]
Taeko was awoken by his phone blaring a pop punk tune he was nostalgic about and stumbled out of bed. He loved the fact that the game had him automatically wake up at six fully rested and recovered. His phone had a myriad of messages for him, but he decided to deal with San first. Once he showered, he donned his clothes for the day which consisted of an orange tank top, black pants, and his usual ninja sandals.
"You do what? I wanted to do some fishing, but so much got in the way. Well, now that I have San. I may as well make her useful for something." Taeko thought as he ate breakfast with his pet.
Getting the small trinket in hand, he activated it while looking over San's menus.
"So, I can buy outfits for her based on other Ghibli flims. Some with gold, but others with objects. Cool, and it seems there one I can buy with a refined quartz." Taeko said going to the furnaces to get out the three Copper Bars and one Refined Quartz.
[You have 5 Copper Bars! You can go upgrade one of your mainline farm tools at Clint's for a price.]
"Good to know. Now to use this quartz to unlock the costume." Taeko said entering it into the slot for San's [Costume] menu.
[You've gained Chihiro Ogino's Work Uniform for San's costumes]
Right on cue, San arrived and Taeko greeted her while selecting the outfit. A flash of light shined about San as her clothes were changed a red work uniform with a white ribbon.
"What is this? My battle gear is gone!" San panicked. "How did you…?!"
"Don't be concerned." Taeko said flatly. "But you'll be changed back once you complete your task. Which is watering the crops within the fence."
Taeko handed her the watering can and sent her off on her way to the crops. Taeko strode over to the henhouse finding four brown eggs. With them put in the fridge, Taeko went up to the farm pond near the henhouse to fish while checking his phone.
"Let's see, I have three texts from Leah, one from Abigail, one from Shane, and one from Sebastian. May as well see Seb's first." Taeko said selecting Sebastian's first.
His text had a photo attached with the message.
[I should have told you earlier that I was writing tales based off our days playing the MMORPG together. With a few changes, I actually made a manuscript to try and get published. Get what? It got published! I'll be sending you a digital copy soon. Just remind me.]
The picture was of Sebastian hoisting his book in the air like an item obtained from the Zelda games. It was silly, but Taeko was just happy to see Sebastian so gleeful. Taeko moved to Shane's text.
[Oi, Taeko. I have to admit that your cat wailing on Morris gave me some ideas for how I'm going to get back at Morris.]
There was a photo attached and it was of a smiling and mischievous Shane putting a few cat plushies on what Taeko assumed to be Morris's desk.
"Oh, that's evil." Taeko said with a chuckle.
"Hey Taeko, I'm done watering your crops." San said rudely throwing the watering can at him.
"What the hell, San?" Taeko said annoyed.
"I did my end of the work." San said rudely.
Taeko glared at San and was tempted to whack her with the watering can. However, he dismissed her for now to let her leave, but he did not change her clothes back citing it as punishment. San snarled, but promptly left. He sent the watering can back to his [Inventory] before fishing up a can of [Joja Cola].
"Screw it, at least it's cold." Taeko said before chugging it and tossing the empty can away. "Next text…but before I should go inside."
Sending the fishing pole back it [Inventory], he lumbered into his room and kicked off the sandals before leaning back on his couch. He moved to the text from Abigail.
[Taeko, while that scroll you gave me is increasing my strength. I realized that it's only increasing the strength I already have by a multiplier. ^^; I'll still have to work out to gain some actual muscle definition. However, I did order some new workout clothes online, so I don't ruin my usual clothes. Hope you don't get distracted, sensei. ]
There were two attached pictures, and Taeko opened one. In said picture, Abigail was using her phone to snap a photo of her in her new workout clothes. A dark blue sport bra with black lining that fits on her snugly, a pair of dark blue booty shorts with similar linings, and a pair of sneakers with purple socks. The top features a triangle cut out above the chest.
"Man, to think it's only been a week!" Taeko thought red-faced. "But I can't rush things!"
The second picture was something that Taeko's nose to trickle a bit of blood. The second outfit was a black sports bra and a sports thong with matching boots. Basically, Samus's ending outfit from Super Metroid. He realized that he owed Kyu…a lot. He hastily moved to Leah's texts.
[Oi, Taeko! I never did get to officially welcome you to town. You have so much to look forward to! Think of it, you wake up to the sight of this everyday.]
The photo was a shot of her sitting on a log watching the sunrise. Taeko thought it was cute, and honestly thought of the fact that he was living it up. Taeko moved on to the next text.
[Thanks for idea of joining deviantART. However, it's not that good of a platformer, but I got recommendations to try out Tumblr. It's a bit of cesspit, but I am getting more acknowledgement there.]
The photo of her showing her site's inbox full of compliments with her sporting a cheesy grin.
"Heh, I guess I got to follow her on Tumblr now." Taeko said swiftly using the image to find and follow her Tumblr.
The next text came from last night much to Taeko's surprise, and it was clearly late from the timestamp. However, it was not a message of words, but an audio message. Taeko decided to hit play to see what it entailed.
[Taeko! Days like this, I really…really fuckin' hate that asshoule…Kel. Yeah, fuck him!]
From the sounds of her slurring her words, she was clearly drunk. Part of Taeko felt bad for listening, but he was intrigued to keep doing so.
[I have a secret to admit. Kel was on my case about losing weight because that bastard would constantly say…a bit too chubby. He was subtle about how to demean me without being blatant about it. It's why I can't enjoy stuff like pizza, ice cream, or any junk food because it reminds me of asshole telling me I'll get fat. He had the nerve to gift me lingerie that I could not fit into at the time. What a douche… Jokes on him that I dumped the bastard. I still have the thing…it does fit me now. But he'll never get to see…not unlike you.]
The recording ended and Taeko moved to the picture. He had to admit that Kel did have a good taste in lingerie as the grass green color brought out her eyes. He closed out his Huniebee and put it away feeling guilty.
"Could have been worse, she could have sent it to Kel." Taeko thought before turning on the TV.
He found out that the weather was clear today and cloudy tomorrow. Livin' off the Land came on next.
[Let's talk fences. Fences are useful for keeping weeds at bay and protecting your crops. They also let farmers contain their livestock. Fences break down after a while, but stone, iron, and hardwood fences last a lot longer than basic wood!]
"Huh? I do have the recipe just laying around for a [Stone Fence]." Taeko thought. "May as well do that."
As Taeko got up, a text box flashed up.
[You've leveled up in Farming to Level 3! [Bee House], [Speed-Gro], [Farmer's Lunch] recipe unlocked!]
"[Bee House]? I could use the money." Taeko said remembering back to the days with his grandfather. "Granddad always said to set bee houses around flowers. And the tulips are fully grown. But I'll need maple syrup and iron ore."
Taeko looked at the time only seeing it seven o' clock and decided to check his mail outside. However, he made sure to put those eggs in the fridge.
[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, town funding for my lunch." Taeko thought as he pocketed the gold. "I should check the conversion on this to dollars."
[Letter from Lewis]
Taeko,
Remember to eat healthy, or you won't have enough energy to work hard! I'm including one of my favorite recipes. Make sure to use ripe tomatoes! Lastly, thanks for the birthday present, my boy.
-Lewis
[Spaghetti Recipe Enclosed/You Now Know How To Cook [Spaghetti]]
"Well, at least I can have my own spaghetti dinner." Taeko thought before moving on to the next one.
[Letter from Leah]
This is going to sound embarrassing, but I may have sent you a drunk text last night. Yeah, I can't believe I did that. I know I don't have to bribe you to keep quiet about that picture I sent with it, but I sent you something as an incentive not to bring *that* incident up…ever…
[3x Maple Syrup Enclosed]
Taeko wondered if he was just lucky today or was that just a mere coincidence. At least, he was closer to getting a [Bee House] built. Done with the mail, Taeko decided to head into town, after eating a [Fried Egg], only for Abigail is come up in the sportswear he saw in the first picture with the added wrappings.
"Hey Taeko, ready to train?" Abigail asked.
"Yeah, but I got to go into town first." Taeko said as Tom rubbed himself against Abigail. "Come on, we can jog."
Abigail had to dash after Taeko and Tom as they took off into town. Alex watched Taeko run by as he was joshing a football around.
"Yo, Taeko? How's the cauliflower?" Alex yelled.
"Give it 11 more days." Taeko said before arriving at Clint's.
He knew Clint did not open until 9, but he hoped to use some favors from him. He found Clint taking out the trash.
"Mornin' Taeko. What can I do you for?" Clint asked.
"I heard you do upgrades, and I wanted to ask if you could upgrade my watering can with copper." Taeko asked.
"Well, it'll take two days, you'll need 5 copper bars, and 2,000 gold." Clint said. "But I assume you have all that."
It was promptly handed over to him along with the watering can, and Clint warned that he'll be extra busy with it meaning he'll close an hour earlier much to Taeko's annoyance.
"It had better rain tomorrow." Taeko thought as he walked away with Tom and Abigail.
"So, what today's training?" Abigail asked curiously.
"Depends, how far did you get with the Magicite?" Taeko asked.
"Well, I've learned Thunder, Thundara, and Poison. So, I'm pretty much done with it unless I want to use Judgement Bolt. I was hoping to go with you to find more as you do seem to always find odd things." Abigail said as Taeko smirked.
"I see. Color me impressed. We'll work on your sword work, but we have a task at hand. I need to break some rocks." Taeko said determined. "But first, to the woods for training!"
The three were off to the woods as Clint lumbered inside to get to work.
[Cindersap Woods BGM: L'indécis – Soulful]
Taeko waltzed into the woods through the route that got him to pass by Marnie's ranch which he decided to pay her a visit later on. Abigail recommends taking the small wooden platforms to go across to river to the other side for a lack of disturbance. As Abigail guided him across the platform, Leah emerged from the water with a fish in her mouth. Getting out of the water revealed a nude Leah just getting some fishing done. Taeko averted his eyes not wanting to taint the "platonic" state of their friendship. While there was little chance of romance, the chances of them forming a physical relationship was more likely.
"I remember Leah mentioning that she knew you. How long you two go back?" Abigail asked curiously as she waved hello to Leah.
"We grew up together. She's actually from the Virgin Islands." Taeko explained.
"Huh? She's Caribbean?" Abigail asked.
Taeko, Tom, and Abigail walked over the small islet with a lone tree in the middle of the river before going across to the other side. Taeko looked around and found several spring onions.
"I can use these to make some of my onion bread." Taeko said, putting them away.
"Think I could have some of that, later?" Abigail asked.
"Sure. Now, let's get to it." Taeko said gesturing to a rock. "The key to punching through stone is to work on the endurance of your body. It took a lot of hard work to be able to punch through the common stone."
Taeko thought of how the gamer effect made that a bit pointless considering he probably tough enough to punch copper now. Taeko punched right through the stone with the pieces going into his inventory.
"Now try to do the same." Taeko remarked.
Abigail took a breath and easily smashed through a rock with ease.
"Well, that scroll did wonders for you." Taeko remarked.
Abigail revealed she had the scroll on her person.
"I was meaning to give this back to you. I've pretty much mastered it at this point and copied it as well. To think I could pull off a technique ala Naruto." Abigail remarked.
Taking up the scroll, Taeko decided to try and learn it thinking it was not going to work. He was proven wrong when he did, and the scroll turned into blue flames before dissipating.
"Holy shit!" Abigail said in surprise.
"I think I learned it." Taeko said in muted shock.
"Lucky. I had to learn it and spend days getting it right." Abigail muttered.
The skill was not mastered, but, thanks to his past combat experience, it was right up on the intermediate level of control.
"I think there's only thing to do now. Spar. Hand to hand firstly." Taeko said putting Eclipse on a stump.
"Fine, sensei. Just letting you know that my father taught me how to box." Abigail said, putting Espada aside.
"Then, you won't go down easily?" Taeko remarked. "Let the fight begin!"
[Battle BGM: Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix – Dee Jay Theme]
A gentle breeze blew through the air as the two charged. Abigail caught Taeko off-guard with an enhanced uppercut to which Taeko was glad he had learnt the skill himself. Twirling, he caught a tree branch and redirected himself towards Abigail.
"[Épaule Shoot]" Taeko said bringing the heel of his foot down on Abigail's shoulder.
Bouncing off it to land on the ground, he turned around to throw a punch only for Abigail to catch it much to his surprise.
"No point!" Taeko said using his free hand to blast her away with a one-handed Hadouken.
Abigail slid back but regained her footing.
"Thunder!" Abigail said as her hands glowed firing a small lightning bolt.
"[Tatsumaki Senpuyaku]" Taeko said making a small jump in the air towards her.
While in the air, Taeko rotates his legs bypassing Abigail's attack and kicking her several in rapid succession. Abigail gasped for air, feeling the blows take the wind out of her sails. Abigail's lightning sliced through the tree before slamming against a wall of dirt leaving a scorch mark. Despite the pain, Abigail caught Taeko's leg and threw him. He wound up landing on the larger islet with several trees with that wooden platforms to lead to the far side of Cindersap. Taeko had crashed through a tree and the fallen materials went to his inventory. Taeko got up to his feet and had to admit that Abigail was progressing well. Of course, he was holding back for her, but even then, he was enthralled with her strength.
"Time to end this." Taeko thought, readying himself.
"Ready to give up, sensei?" Abigail asked.
Taeko did not answer and instead started running and jumped off the islet.
"[Mutoryu: Tatsu Maki]" Taeko said spinning out with arms wide to create a dragon-like tornado that blew Abigail away off her feet and into a tree as Taeko landed right back on the other. "Don't get cocky, Abigail. That tends to get you killed."
[Battle BGM Ended]
Taeko took Eclipse back up and helped Abigail onto her feet. Both were a tad bruised with Abigail having a few spots of purple on her body, but they're still standing. Abigail put her sword back on her side.
"Well, I can call this training session done for now. I wanted to get a feel for your hand to hand. We can start on your leg work soon." Taeko said. "Now come on, there's a place I wanted to check out."
Walking across the wooden platforms to the larger islet before crossing another bridge, they arrived at the Abandoned House.
"Why here? Nobody's lived there in years." Abigail asked.
[Hat Mouse Theme Unlocked: Mewmore / Boutique (Pokémon X and Y Remix)]
"I believe that cheery music just proved you wrong." Taeko said hearing the chiptune beat.
"Huh, what the hell?" Abigail said noticing the new "Hats" sign placed on the worn place.
At the front door was a desk with a short guy with grey mouse ears, silver hair under the green bowler hat, a green buttoned-down shirt, beige slacks, and brown loafers behind it.
"So, you finally came!" Harry said cheerfully. "I'm Harry Rodan but you call me the Hat Mouse."
"So, he's some of anthromorph?" Taeko thought before saying, "Yeah, if the game reveals Sonic's world or Faunus are a real thing, I'm punching Morris."
The stock Harry had was limited and Taeko remembered it was bound to his accomplishments. Realizing this, he decided not to buy today, but made a 100 Gold donation.
"Heh, going to wait until the stock increases? That's fine, kiddo." Harry said chipper.
"Wait, why live here?" Abigail asked concerned.
"Simple, it's rent free." Harry said with a wink as they walked away.
"Taeko, I owe you big time, you know. So much strangeness is going down in the Valley, and I love that it's no longer boring." Abigail said taking in a chipper attitude.
"I can't take credit for that." Taeko said as he as snagged up forage along the way.
The two found themselves near the path to the Wizard's Tower, and Abigail felt drawn to it asking Taeko if they could head in.
"Eh, why not? I need to see the guy anyway." Taeko said as they walked up the stairs.
Out of the door came a blue, humanoid creature with a very feminine look. She wears small, pink clothing, and has green hair. She had a blank berserk look in her eyes and spoke a language neither could understand. As she charged an ice attack coming at them, out came Taeko's Eclipse and the Wooden Sword. Before she could launch her attack and before Abigail could unsheathe Espada, Taeko leapt forward.
"[Nitoryu Iai: Rashomon]" Taeko said slicing clean through her before sheathing Eclipse as he landed.
The Wooden Sword shattered into pieces due to her ice, and said creature screamed before exploding into magicite.
"That was Shiva." Abigail said in shock.
Right then, Myth Rasmodius the Wizard walked out stunned at what he just witnessed. He gave a bit of a slow clap as Taeko looked up at him.
"So, we meet again, young Taeko." Myth said looking at him. "And you brought company?"
"I'm Abigail…Belmont. Huge fan." She said taking the Shiva magicite. "To think these were real like the Ramuh one I have."
"You have magicite?!" Myth said in crowd as he grabbed Taeko by the scruff of his tank top. "Where? How?!"
"Damn it, Wiz, cool it! I found it in the mines. I was able to identify it and who it was because I played Final Fantasy 6." Taeko said as Myth let him go.
"Final what-now?" Myth asked confused.
[Wizard's Tower BGM: Nujabes - The Space Between Two Worlds]
A few minutes later, and they were all inside as Taeko literally showed him Final Fantasy 6's wiki page on Finalpedia.
"Amazing! A complete collection of the original set of espers!" Myth said shocked. "I can't believe that a mere video game had the details. I really should spring for the mundane appliances then."
"Good freaking luck. The GBA port is practically discontinued. Your best bet is to get the mobile version. But what this all mean? Did the Espers exist before the game or after?" Taeko asked.
"That depends. When did this "game" come out?" Myth asked.
"April 2, 1994." Taeko said reading off the information.
"By the elements…I don't know how but I think the esper world was ripped right out that game." Myth said exasperated. "I've been investigating a string of oddities that I've noticed within the Valley lately, but they've been too out of place for me to pinpoint. The only thing I've noticed is that it all ties to you."
"So, is Taeko magic like me?" Abigail asked.
Myth shook his head.
"No, my child. What he is, is much different. There are two types of enhanced combat. Those that are mages like us, and martial artists who have access to their ki…sometimes called chi. Mages draw their power from the planet, but ki users draw their power from within themselves. Magic doesn't rely on one being physically combative, but Ki does. This is why they are more populous, sadly." Myth said with a sigh. "Ki users and Magic users tend to not get along. Also, society tends to accept ki users better seeing they don't cause as much chaos as Black Mages do with the darkest of magic."
"Ok, so I'm a ki user." Taeko said with a raised eyebrow.
"Don't be surprised. Your grandfather was adept at it. He used to be my rival back in the days, and his training made him a formidable opponent. It's why I started to work on my physical body. I couldn't cast a spell before he up and popped me in the face before I could say it." Myth remarked. "A shame he is gone."
"Hah!" Taeko remarked. "That's grandpa! He's the type to make you talk to his fist or foot."
"Yet, you're able to communicate with Junimos. They don't just pick anyone to show their face to." Myth said as Taeko covertly used [Observe].
[Pelican Town Villager – Myth (Wizard) – Relationship Level: 4/10 – The elemental user of the valley and guy with the plan, Myth Rasmodius. He studies the spirit world from his tower in Cindersap forest. He is fluent in many elemental languages. He's lived on the Earth for quite some time, and long enough to have several descendants with one unknowingly within the Valley harboring his genes. He had a close relationship with your grandfather. (Thus, your relationship starts off at four hearts and you access the tower's basement.)]
"There's that feeling again." Myth thought before saying, "Either way, Taeko. I want to lend as much aid as I can."
Myth walked over to a cabinet and got something for Taeko before returning to give him a [Frozen Tear] saying it help.
"By the way, do you want the Shiva magicite back?" Abigail asked.
"No, you hold onto them for now. Better you learn from them, just give me the ones you're done using." Myth said as he was handed the Ramuh one. "I'll be able to study these to get more details, but I'll need to get me a computer and internet."
Abigail and Taeko took their leave heading back on the path.
[Cindersap Woods BGM: L'indécis – Soulful]
"You saved my neck there and getting me another magicite again." Abigail said bashfully. "I owe you one again."
"Eh, it's no big deal…huh, what that's?" Taeko said pointing to the strange cart being pulled in by an odder pig.
"That's Antonia, the Traveling Merchant. She's odd, but she's been around the valley a while. She normally comes here every Friday and Sunday, though. Her stock is set at only ten items plus one furnishing. It's always random, and it's a gamble to shop here." Abigail explained.
"With you, I'm feeling lucky." Taeko said going up to the cart.
Antonia adjusted her glasses looking down at Taeko asking who Taeko was.
"Taeko. Taeko Maelstrom, I moved into town a week ago." Taeko explained. "I now run Shadow Farm."
"Maelstrom? Ah yes, I remember your grandfather. It's a shame he passed, but at least the farm is finding use, ya. Well, do know if you sell anything to me, I'll be happy to make a fair deal." Antonia said. "I'm usually only here on Fridays and Sundays. However, I came today to make up for not being here last week. I had to go visit my niece in the Grataton Kingdom, and so I'll make it up by being here today along with my usual schedule this week."
"That's cool, what do you have in stock?" Taeko remarked.
"Allow me to show you." Antonia said as a text box flashed with a list of what's in stock.
[Travel Merchant's Stock (Set 1)]
Ancient Seeds (4 in stock) – 300 gold
Apple (2 in stock) – 500 gold
Bread (5 in stock) – 180 gold
Cauliflower (2 in stock) – 525 gold
Iron Bar (2 in stock) – 400 gold
Maple Syrup (4 in stock) – 600 gold
Oak Resin (2 in stock) – 450 gold
Pine Tar (3 in stock) – 300 gold
Parsnip (1 in stock) – 105 gold
Sweet Gem Berry (1 in stock) – 15,000 gold
Dark Rug (1 in stock) – 300 gold
For the most part, Taeko would be annoyed at the prices, but he did have plenty of money. Besides if he did splurge, he got to nick a quest early, keep the Pine Tar he was growing as profit, and add to some bundles. Plus, he be lying if he didn't want that nifty rug for his room.
"Well then, I'll take all your ancient seeds, apples, maple syrup, oak resin, pine tar, and iron bars. I will also take one bread, parsnip, cauliflower, and the rug." Taeko said to Abigail shock.
"Total comes up to 8,205 gold. However, seeing this is your first purchase. I'll slice the total in half to 4,102 gold. We can call it even. Your grandfather did me a big favor and I want to pay that back." Antonia said kindly.
Taeko was given the chance on whether he wanted to hold off on that favor, but he accepted while paying the woman.
"So, what's with the big purchase?" Abigail asked.
"Firstly, plans. I'm heading back to the farm to enact said plan. So, we'll have to split for now." Taeko mused. "Be seeing ya."
"Just know I'll text you something later. My way of saying thanks." Abigail said in a low teasing voice.
[Music End]
Taeko took off to the farm with maddening glee as Tom followed. He saw that the time was closing in to 10 o' clock. Going into the kitchen, he crafted his [Onion Bread] before eating it to regain some health and energy. He tossed the leeks and spring onions he gathered into the fridge. The wild horseradish was shoved into a storage chest with he put other horseradish. With that dealt with, he threw on his azure jacket and left the house for the intention of making the rounds to make back that money. The first stop was Gunther to hand over one of [Ancient Seeds] and the [Frozen Tear].
[You've given Gunther an Ancient Seed! Ancient Fruit Seeds Crafting Recipe unlocked!]
"Well, well, I did not expect this. It's a little-known secret that [Ancient Fruit] can grow in modern time. Here, take this packet and try it out. By the way, you've donated 15 items, so also take these 9 packs of [Starfruit Seeds]."
Taeko wordlessly nodded and walked out with a grin on his face as he used the crafting recipe to turn the rest of the ancient seeds into Ancient Fruit Seeds making one for giving up one ancient seed.
"Now I just need some coal." Taeko said heading to Clint.
"Taeko…I.." Clint said before Taeko cut him off putting 120 gold on the table, "I need eight pieces of coal."
"Oh." Clint said quietly giving Taeko the needed coal. "Thanks for your patronage."
Taeko nodded before running out of there, and Clint decided on a lunch break away from the forge. Clint smirked thinking of his RealDoll, but this time remembered to lock the door. He did not want to get interrupted. Taeko rocketed home and got into some of the wood he had in the storage chest (and all of the wood in his personal inventory) before crafting a bee house. Before he ran out again, he threw the Dark Rug onto his bedroom floor before dashing out of the house to place the bee house in the middle of those flowers in the "flower box". He was feeling confident he could get things done before lunch. Walking inside to pace himself, he guzzled down some water. He stored the stones, starfruit seeds, and the iron bar left into the storage chests noting he should build more of those before taking out an earth crystal, cave carrot, and quartz with him. He waltzed out and had Tom follow him to the Community Center. He had his trusty cat stand guard as he entered the center.
"Crafts Room, first." Taeko entering that room before opening the golden scroll. "Now let's apply some items."
Taeko applied some items to the [Exotic Foraging Bundle] after moving to the Pantry scrolls.
[Exotic Foraging Bundle]
Coconut
Cactus Fruit [X]
Cave Carrot [X]
Red Mushroom
Purple Mushroom
Maple Syrup [X]
Oak Resin [X]
Pine Tar
Morel
He held up on applying the Pine Tar deciding to wait another day for to get from his Tappers. He moved to the [Spring Crops Bundle] and handed off the [Cauliflower] and [Parsnip] leaving only to get a [Green Bean]. Using one of the [Apples] he bought, he started another bundle in the pantry, the [Artisan Bundle]. Satisfied, he left the Pantry and walked into the Boiler Room. Using the [Quartz] and [Earth Crystal], he started the [Geologist's Bundle]. He could have dumped some money in the Vault, but decided not to just to spite Pam. Instead, he looked at the bulletin board. He put a [Maple Syrup] into the [Chef's Bundle] and made a mental note to fry an egg later to bring it here.
"I'll also will have to get that [Maki Roll] recipe from Gus." Taeko thought before looking over the other bundles on the board. "I guess I could steal a bottle of wine from Pam. Yoba knows that bitch that stand to lessen up. I can at least put in an [Oak Resin] in the [Enchanter's Bundle]. Actually, I remember the quest it was a bonus reward, so I guess I can put that bundle off."
Taeko made a mental note to focus on filling up the smaller bundles sooner. He finally left the center with Tom in tow. Taeko had tossed away the three acorns in his [Inventory] to the dirt leaving them to grow into trees for later. He decided to head for the Grants since he was in the area already.
"Where the hell is Robin? It's only eleven o' clock." Taeko said coming up to the counter.
He noticed a catalog and took it to see what Robin was selling as the game optimized it for him.
"Cabins for only 1,000 gold and few supplies needed? Hm, I guess I could invest in that in the future. Upgrades for my house and the coop are certainly in my future." Taeko mused putting the catalogue down.
He walked down the hall and heard the sounds of grunting and a bed mattress soaking coming from Robin and Demetrius's room. There was a rather boyish pair of panties hanging on the door.
"Ugh, if only I could sense ki like in…wait a second! I have telekinesis already, so maybe if I apply it just right." Taeko thought before taking a breath.
Focusing, he closed his eyes to try to sense his surroundings. While the sloppy sounds of sex in the other room made it a tad difficult, having telekinesis made it easier.
[Applying your telekinesis allowed you to sense others! You can now sense ki in others! At your current level, you only sense how strong someone is and pinpoint where others are.]
Taeko would have smirked only to scowl in realization that neither Maru nor Sebastian was in the home.
"Figures. Ah well, makes this easier." Taeko thought before taking one of Robin's panties.
It turned into blue light before vanishing. Given the panty was on the doorknob, Taeko did not need any more context.
[Panties Collected: 7/11]
Taeko noticed there was an exclamation point over the doorknob and it was giving the option…to peep on them to which he passed.
"The idea of having to see that limpdick Demetrius naked isn't worth seeing Robin for." Taeko muttered as he left.
Seeing his sensing was new, he was getting used to it as it bombarded him with the "power levels" of animals. It took forcibly using his telekinesis to tone it down to focus on human life.
"Ok, I sense the "loving couple" and Linus. Huh…Linus had got a damn high power level. Gil and Marlon aren't slacking either. So, it seems that in the valley, I'm not the only fighter. Then again, Grandad definitely had rivals." Taeko said to himself. "And got her! Maru…at my farm. The hell?"
Taeko sped for his home to find her playing with Logan.
"Maru, I was actually passing by your place looking for you." Taeko said as Maru was in her workout clothes from Saturday.
He also noticed that Maru was a bit more of an average build with slight pudge. It actually reminded him of Lucca somewhat.
"Oh…well I was. My dad decided to sporadically take my mother in for….their alone time and he's loud." Maru said annoyed.
"You'd think they'd soundproofed the room?" Taeko thought before saying, "I got something for you. You requested some [Pine Tar], and I got my hands on it and some [Oak Resin]."
Taeko handed off three bottles of [Pine Tar] and one bottle of [Oak Resin]. A text box came up to alert him of his quest completion.
[Quest Complete – Maru Quest 1]
Pine Tar Gathering – You've agreed to help Maru get some Pine Tar! So, go forth and tap those trees!
Quest Objectives:
- Gather the needed equipment for a Tapper (Complete)
- Tap a Pine Tree to get Tar (Complete?)
- Deliver the Tar (3) to Maru (Complete)
Bonus Objectives:
- Finish this quest before the end of the month (Complete)
Quest Completion Reward:
- 400 Gold
- +135 Friendship with Maru.
- Possible Maru-related quests in the future.
Quest Failure:
- -135 Friendship with Maru
- Mending Bridges quest will get a setback
Bonus Objectives:
- Tap an Oak Tree for Oak Resin (Due to buying Oak Resin, this will be counted as Complete)
- Deliver an Oak Resin to Maru (Complete)
Bonus Objective Reward:
- +45 Friendship with Maru
- Bonus picture added to your gallery
[Excellent work!]
"Oh, my stars, thank you!" Maru said hugging Taeko. "I thought tapping took a while."
"It does, and the tapping isn't done yet. I got a bit lucky with the Traveling Merchant as she showed up today." Taeko said with a mirthful chuckle.
"Taeko…that Antonia pretty much inflates her prices so much that she's a last resort for most of us. At least the quality's better than Joja…" Maru said concerned.
"Don't worry. The bill came up to about 8,000, but he owed my grandpa a favor. So, he sliced the total in half for me." Taeko explained.
"Even though, that's still 4,000 Gold. I feel flattered you went through the trouble and guilty you did it all for me for no real reward." Maru said sheepishly.
Taeko did not really count the 400 Gold he got from quest as a reward really as more than a bit of a pat on the back.
"By the way, what do need the pine tar for?" Taeko asked.
"I was hoping to use it for the final ingredient for a prototype skin cream easing the irritation of skin while slowly curing its problems. It's particularly good for those with sensitive skin that have eczema. I'm working to cure that. Figured I'd put my medical training to use." Maru remarked. "But there's one thing I need to ask. It's about your former ties to Joja. You wouldn't happen to have connections to their medical division to help distribute the product?"
"I did, but trust me Maru, they'll find a way to fuck you over. If you were wealthy and had a good lawyer, I'd say go with them. Knowing you, your product will actually do something and cut into the pharmaceutical business. And trust me, you do not want to FUCK with big pharma. Joja has their thumb in that pie, the NRA, and even in politics. They'll see your product as valuable, but they get to you and try to force you to give them the formula." Taeko said darkly. "I've seen ruin hopefuls like you…and I'm guilty of aiding them thanks to my old position."
Maru looked disheartened, but Taeko lifted her chin.
"But I may be able to help. While I did flip off Joja, I was not the only one. I have connections to an old associate who had worked at Joja's medical division. He went off to form his own pharmaceutical company in Zuzu City. He's the younger brother of my closer friends and old co-worker, Manny. Joja worked him to death, and I got depression with that and Johnny doing drugs to keep himself "stable". Alejandro just couldn't stand for it, and he left to form his own company, Curaga Biotherapeutics." Taeko remarked. "He offered me a job here, but I stayed at Joja because if I had quit then, I would not qualify for my severance. Plus, I know Johnny would kill himself if I hadn't." Taeko mused. "I could call him now as I do have his number."
"Please do!" Maru said excitedly.
Taeko took her inside and got up his laptop while plugging it into the television for a full display. Going up on Discord, he made the call and Taeko hoped he would pick up. It rang before the video started up. A young man with light brown skin, purple eyes, and shaggy dark brown hair appeared on screen. He wore a lab coat, a dark colored turtleneck, jeans, and sandals.
"Alejandro Morinelli, it's been some time." Taeko remarked.
"Taeko, the Motherfucking Maelstrom. I heard you finally quit Joja and Johnny died of an overdose. Also heard that Joja took some huge hits after you left, yet they blamed Johnny." Alejandro said raising an eyebrow.
"Honestly, Johnny dying was something unexpected for me now. I'm surprised they looked to him being the culprit considering he was high so often." Taeko said with a cheesy grin.
"So, where did you end up? The look of this place feels old but fresh." Alejandro said looking around.
"I moved into my Grandpa's place in Stardew Valley. I'm now running Shadow Farm." Taeko said cheerfully.
"Must be boring. I ended up moving out of Zuzu to some kingdom far out a week days ago. Grataton, actually. Funny enough, I run into your sister when my partner and I move to Manx." Alejandro remarked. "She was just here a moment ago, but she's out doing something."
Taeko cut straight to the chase explaining the situation with Maru and a bit into what he was up to.
"Damn, to think you get to fight monsters and make money from it. I'm actually regretting moving out of Ferngill. But never mind that, I can take a look at Maru's product and have it streamlined to go. I'll need a sample for me and my partner to look at it." Alejandro remarked. "And here she is. Meet Dr. Shizune Takatsuka."
Taeko was shocked to see who seemed to be a lookalike to Shinuze from Naruto, but Maru only barely seemed to catch.
"She looks like her Road to Ninja version…figures." Taeko thought.
"I believe we'll have to get your parents involved in this case." Shizune said taking a sip of her plum sake.
"That won't be a concern. I'm actually an emancipated youth thanks to going to medical school early." Maru said cheerfully. "I can deal with the paperwork."
"Well then, I believe we can call this meeting a success. Taeko, do call again so we can talk and catch up." Alejandro remarked.
"Definitely, old friend." Taeko remarked before hanging up.
"Taeko, didn't you notice that woman looked faintly like Shizune from Naruto?" Maru asked.
"Eh…the last's name familiar. Let me look that up." Taeko said using his Huniebee, "Huh. Apparently, she's the daughter of two voice actors. The mother is Keiko Nemoto, who did Shizune's Japanese. Apparently, she was in a relationship with Masaya Takatsuka. Seems they had the kid first before they got married in 2012. Apparently, their daughter was the inspiration for the character Shizune"
"Well, that's odd. But nevertheless, I need to go home and prepare the sample to send it. I can't wait to tell the family about this. I'm figure out some way to repay you." Maru said leaving the house as Taeko unplugged his laptop to put it away.
"In all honesty, I owe you for making me remember Alejandro." Taeko said to himself. "But something's off. I didn't even know the voice actor had a daughter. It could be the game's way of justifying her existence. Either way, it's time for lunch. But first…"
Getting eight bits of [Sap] out of storage, he crafted 4 boxes of [Basic Fertilizer]. Going out to column four of his farm, he planted the ancient seeds lacing them with that fertilizer.
"Now let's see what I can cook today." Taeko thought as he entered his home to look in the fridge. "Oh yeah, I forgot about the bottle of wine Penny gave to me to hide from her mother. Guess I can use it."
Taeko made the fried egg to go in his [Inventory] and put the wine in there as well. As for cooking, Taeko decided to try and make his own recipe. Firstly, he went over to Pierre's to buy three bottles of Oil and three boxes of Wheat Flour before coming back to his kitchen. He set the stove ablaze and got a frying pan on the flames. He poured oil slowly on the pot letting it sizzle. Getting a bowl, he poured out the wheat flour into it and threw in a normal quality largemouth bass to roll it around to give it way to fry better. He chopped up some spring onion, leek, and a potato to make some fries with it. The bits of spring onion and leek were put into the pot searing away and crackling before the fish was put in. The "fries" were made in a separate pot with leftover oil with some added spring onion for flavor. The process was laboring, but in the end, he had a new dish.
[Custom Craft Object: Fish 'n' Blitz Chips – Food Item – The Brit's equal to the American's Chicken and Fries. Done with a bit of that Maelstrom flair! (Essential Ingredients: Any Fish, Potato, Oil | Seasoning Ingredients: Optional depending on season) Healing Properties: +63 Energy/+54 Health]
"Huh…well now I need someone to try it. I could get San here to try it." Taeko said to himself as Tom licked his lips at the finished product.
Getting the remote, he pressed the button to summon her and went to the door. San came in still slightly sour while back in her work clothes.
"What do you want?" San snarled.
"I have a new dish I cooked, and I want you to try it." Taeko remarked as San perked up taking a whiff at the air.
"Food?!" San said excitedly.
"However, you were rude to me this morning. I'm tempted to give it to the cat." Taeko teased as Tom mewled happily.
"No wait, I'll be good. Let me have food please!" San said enthused by the aroma.
"Since you asked, it's on the kitchen table." Taeko said pointing to it.
San was already on devouring it. This was inadvertently her first time with fried foods or seasoned food as she mostly lived off raw food or food that cooked over a fire plainly. So, this caused a flavor explosion in her and got her senses overwhelmed.
"Food…good…" San said wolfing it all with a belch. "More?"
"I did not make more…but I might cook you that again tomorrow if you behave." Taeko teased. "Or something just as nice."
"Yes please!" San remarked.
"Now, you can go." Taeko said as San was out the door. "Seems I got her hooked on fried foods. This may make things easier for taming her. It tamed most Americans."
Taeko made another [Fish 'n' Blitz Chips] before putting the last of the oil and wheat flour in the fridge. He strode to the saloon with Logan and Tom following as Taeko strode over to the jukebox in the mood of classic.
[Jukebox BGM Change: George Thorogood – Bad to the Bone]
Taeko made a bit of a dramatic walk up to the counter with his pets trying to look intimidating.
"Bonjour, Taeko. What can I get you?" Gus said as Tom hopped up on the counter.
"Oh, I just wanted to show you my new recipe." Taeko said putting the plate on the table. "My [Fish 'n' Blitz Chips]!"
The scent wafted through the air, and it attracted Cosette from Pam over to him.
"I figured I'd try using a few things in my fridge to make it. I couldn't just leave fresh fish to waste." Taeko said only for Willy to come up drooling.
"How much for it?" Willy asked.
"700 Gold." Taeko said only to be hastily paid as Willy ran off with the meal. "I want to make a deal for giving the recipe. I'll hand over in exchange for your [Maki Roll] recipe and lunch for me and my pets."
Gus was hesitant, but he had to admit that he never Willy so crazy about food before.
"Well, I suppose it's fair. At least there's no gold lost. What will you have?" Gus asked.
"Your [Lucky Lunch] for me, a pepperoni pizza for Logan, and a fish one for Tom." Taeko said handing over the scroll with the recipe.
The game had automatically converted his custom recipes into scrolls which materialized in his jacket pocket for him to give to Gus as the chef gave him the scroll for the [Maki Roll] recipe. Taeko opened it up and it broke into blue flames for absorption. Strangely, the only person who saw that was Pam who was already too drunk to register what just happened.
[You can now cook "Maki Roll"!]
"Oh great." Taeko said to himself as a [Lucky Lunch] was put in front of him.
Taeko had discovered his first disliked component, sea cucumber. He might even hate it, but he swallowed it all for the buffs.
[You've eaten a Lucky Lunch! Luck is increased by 3 for 11m and 11s.]
[Music Ended]
Taeko had to shamelessly snag a few slices of pizza off his pet's plates before leaving them to finish their meal. Taeko walked over to the bulletin board to see if there were any jobs and saw that there were two jobs.
[Item Delivery 03]
Howdy neighbors! The goats are hankerin' for a Largemouth Bass, but I'm not really a fisherman. And JojaMart doesn't sell them (for the store that's supposed to have everything, they don't) Help?
Get Marnie a Largemouth Bass!
Reward: 350g on delivery, Marnie will be thankful (+150 Friendship Points), Possible Favor, ?
Quest Failure: Nothing.
You got two days.
[Accept This Quest?]
[Fishing 01]
I need someone to catch from 3 of Largemouth Bass from the current season, either to lower the population of that fish or to keep the art of fishing alive! (Just show me the fish!)
Show Willy (3) Largemouth Bass!
Reward: 450 Gold + You Can Keep the Fish
You got two days
[Accept Quest?]
An easy 750 gold and some brownie points from Marnie was certainly not a bad deal. He accepted them both, but both quests pinged that they were complete already only needed for them to go the respective person.
"They don't need to be my inventory for them to count! Kick freaking ass!" Taeko whopped. "First, Willy."
Taeko stormed up to the dock to find Willy fishing off the side. As he got closer, the three Largemouth Bass materialized in my hands.
"Oi, Willy. I got the Largemouth Bass you requested to see." Taeko said coming up.
"Well done, then." Willy said reeling in ironically enough a Largemouth Bass. "I see you kept your end, so here's your pay."
Willy handed Taeko his well-earned gold before going back to fishing. Taeko walked away as the fish faded away going back to the fridge.
[You've completed your third Help Wanted quest! 450 Gold earned!]
Next was Marnie's, and he found her reading behind the counter. One largemouth bass materialized from him, and thankfully it was the normal quality one. Marnie put down her book to see a fish slapped on the counter.
"You rang for a bass, Marnie?" Taeko said calmly.
"Well, that's fast. You saved me the trouble." Marnie said kindly taking it up and putting the Gold for him on the table. "By the way, seeing that you're always in the sun. Figured you'd need this."
She put a hat on the table which was a fuzzy one designed after a panda's head with little black ears. Taeko used [Observe] right away.
[Accessory – Panda Hat – A lovely panda hat made of high-quality products. It's on the rage in China and it's highly sought after. 顶萌萌的熊猫帽子，这是Eric给TGP玩家的礼物]
Taeko tried it on, and it fit perfectly on him.
"Thanks, Marnie. It's not too shabby." Taeko remarked.
"Figured you'd like it. I had an extra one of those in another size in the mail. Shane did not want it, and you coming made me realize that you'll need it more." Marnie said with a grin. "Thanks again for the fish."
[You've completed your fourth "Help Wanted" Quest! 300 Gold gained, Panda Hat obtained, and 150 Friendship Points with Marnie added.]
"Thanks again for the hat." Taeko said, taking the gold as he left.
"Damn it, I forgot to ask him if he could help me get cave carrots!" Marnie thought. "Feh, I'll mail him. But I need to figure out what to offer up."
Taeko was rather glad he already had cave carrots. He still had to play the angle up as he was going to the mines later anyway. Taeko decided to spend most of the day in the mines gathering stone for the stone fence he was planning on building.
(Grataton Kingdom, South Island)
Hikari wondered if the game was actually trying to merge her and Taeko's lives. Apparently, she found out one of Taeko's old friends moves into Manx with his partner. She visited and said hello, but she had to run and help Roy with his store. It annoyed that vanilla Roy had no idea that Sharon had feelings for him. It was so obvious, but he was too shy and dense to pick up on it. After dealing with him, he entered the medical lab where Alejandro and Shizune had set up shop. She found them going over some forms.
"Ah, Hikari." Alejandro said chipper. "You just missed your brother. He called and got me some business that will stick it to those Joja bastards. I could use some assistance. You looking for work?"
Technically, she did not really have something that she called a job. She basically made her money through fish, playing tennis matches, and helping around the place.
"Well, depends on what you got?" Hikari said chipper.
"Know anyone with connections to a chopper?" Alejandro asked.
"Actually…I do." Hikari said with a raised eyebrow. "Just let me call Martin."
"And that's the last one!" Taeko said placing the last part of the stone fence. "All replaced and gated."
It had to be a long day, but he got enough stone and wood in the mines to fence and gate his crops and coop. He had to replace the fence realizing the stone one could last longer. He wiped the sweat off his brow glad he made sure to pass by the community center before coming home to start the [Enchanter's Bundle], add to the [Crab Pot Bundle] with that leftover crab in the fridge, and add to the [Chef's Bundle]. He could deal with the five Geodes in his [Inventory] tomorrow as he lumbered up the selling bin. He tossed in the monster loot he got while in the mines: seven [Crabs], 20 [Slime], a [Diamond], three [Earth Crystal], 30 [Bug Meat]. He decided to keep the three yams he got from the group of Duggy he slain today. He lumbered to bed winded, but hopeful for tomorrow. Little did he know that the game was going to throw a curveball with a random event. The game was calculating for when event to occur….and it settled for the [Crop Fairy] event. However, that fairy was replaced with everyone's favorite pinkette, Kyu.
"Crop Fairy, huh? Well, may as well scan the arena." Kyu said looking around. "Not bad, not bad. Wait, he has [Ancient Fruit]. Okay, he's going to owe me big for this."
Kyu marked a 4x4 area within the crop land and waved her finger. With the snap of her fingers, those slots transformed into fully grown crops with the Cauliflower forming a giant crop.
"My work here is done." Kyu said vanishing and reappear in Taeko's room. "He'll be in for a shock, and what's this? He must be having a nice dream."
Kyu smirked and hung Taeko followed the Maelstrom family trend of being well-endowed. She left him to sleep and disappeared knowing the look on his face tomorrow will be priceless. Taeko was going to have a lot to wake up to tomorrow, more than that the text box showing he'd level up in mining.
[STATS]
Taeko Kiba Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer/Freelancer Ronin
Age: 20 years
HP: 670/670
Energy: 500/500
Overall Level: Smallholder
Farming Skill Level: 2
Mining Skill Level: 4
Foraging Skill Level: 4
Fishing Skill Level: 2
Combat Skill Level: 10
Gold: 21014
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's shown the town he's no pushover. Running Shadow Farm, the ronin is thrusted into plenty of strange happenings within the valley. His favorite food is pepperoni pizza. His favorite gifts tend to center around gaming, manga, and combat. His least favorite food is sea cucumber and can only tolerate it in Lucky Lunches as he recently discovered.
[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)
Matters of the Mind - Gamer's Mind has expanded your mind to where you can perform new feats. (Access to learning telekinetic abilities)
Friend to all Children - You are considered a great person for kids to look up to. (This perk can have children more likely to trust you and see you as a role model. It can attract "MILF"s and make it easier to befriend motherly people.)
[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%)
Small Glow Ring – Rings not unlike glow sticks. Even though they don't offer any special boosts, it shines a bright light of 5 tiles away from the user.
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)
Rabbit's Foot – Some say it's lucky, and it sells highly. (Equipping this item lowers your chances of getting unlucky streaks.)
[Relationships]
Sandy – 4.40/10 Hearts – 1100 Friendship Points
Pam – 1.4/10 Hearts – 350 Friendship Points
Lewis – 3.6/10 Hearts – 860 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 – 1/10 Hearts – 250 Friendship Points
Harvey – 1.4/10 Hearts – 350 Friendship Points
Maru – 3/10 Hearts – 760 Friendship Points
Linus – 2/10 Hearts – 500 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 – 4/10 – 100 Friendship Points
Jas – 8/10 Hearts – 2000 Friendship Points
Vincent – 8/10 Hearts – 2000 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 – 3.6/10 Hearts – 900 Friendship Points
Elliot – 0.4/10 Hearts – 100 Friendship Points
Shane – 2.2/10 Hearts – 505 Friendship Points
Sam – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points
Jodi – 3/10 Hearts – 750 Friendship Points
Myth – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 Friendship Points
[Status of the Farm]
[Column 1]
Row 1) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 4) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 5) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 6) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 7) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 8) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 9) Rhubarb (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 10) Rhubarb (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 8/12)
Row 11) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 12) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
[Column 2]
Row 1) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 4) Rhubarb (Days in the Soil: 8/13)
Row 6) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 7) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 8) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 9) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 10/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 11) Beans (Basic Fertiziler) (Days in the Soil: 7/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)
[Column 3]
Row 1) Beans (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 7/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 3) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 5) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 7/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 6) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 7) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
Row 8) Cauliflower (Days in the Soil: 12/12)
[Column 4]
Row 1) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 4/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 4) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 5) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 3/6)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 28/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 28/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 28/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 9) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 28/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after it's Fully Grown)
[Flower Box]
Slot 1) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 6/7)
Slot 2) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 6/7)
Slot 3) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 6/7)
Slot 4) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 6/7)
Slot 5) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 6/6)
Slot 6) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 6/6)
Slot 7) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 6/6)
Slot 8) Tulip (Days in the Soil: 6/6)
-Bee House (Tulip Honey) (0/4)-
(Day 8 Total Profits: 1940)
(Shadow Farm's Total Profits (This adds all the money made by the end of each day): 35,674 Gold)
[Status of the Pets]
Logan Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer's Dog/Battle Pet
Class: Fighter (Warrior)
Level: 10
EXP: 18/100
Age: 1 Year (in Dog Years)
HP: 300/300
MP: 450/450
[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: Happy Hunter (3))
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)
Roar - The user releases a savage roar that can be to send foes fleeing in fear.
[Stats]
Strength: 18
Defense: 14
Dexterity: 14
Intelligence: 13
Charisma: 12
Wisdom: 12
[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: 9
EXP: 18/108
Age: 1 Cat Year (15 Human Years)
HP: 312/312
MP: 347/347
[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)
Flash - The user emits a blinding light from its body. It can used to blind opponents for a few turns to reduce accuracy. It can also be used to shine in dark places and at night. (This cost 5 MP.)
[Stats]
Strength: 15
Defense: 13
Dexterity: 15
Intelligence: 13
Charisma: 13
Wisdom: 12
[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.
[SAVING GAME]
….
….
[GAME SAVED!]
(A/N: Let me get this out of the way about the Help Wanted. That exploit is a canon one in the games, and Taeko only discovered it now because of the Luck buff. As for the characters, I do hope you enjoyed learning a bit more about Taeko's past. Do note that chapters 6, 8, and 9 received minor edits to fix some errors. As for random events, that's canon in the game as well, but it's limited by your play into the game. The witch won't show until you got an upgraded coop or slime hutch. The strange capsule is extremely rare as well yet pointless, so it fell to the meteorite or the crop fairy. I plan for random events to start happening once a week for oddness sake. Either way, next chapter, we still deal with some quest and go back into the mines!)
(Remastered A/N: Ugh, this chapter was a mess. Wrong words, misspells, and so on. Tedious to repair, but I got it done.)