The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 15 – Combative Chaos
Tuesday, the 9th of Spring, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
[LOAD GAME]
…
[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]
Penny would dream of being anywhere but home considering her mother. She groaned as she forced herself out of bed. She had lesson plans to prepare and breakfast to make. The sooner Pam got breakfast, the sooner her hungover behind will lumber back into bed.
"Ugh, days like this, I envy mostly everybody else in town, especially Leah and Taeko. Lucky bastards have their own place." Penny muttered as she fried an egg.
Pam finally comes out wearing an open and stained pink bathrobe as Penny glared at her.
"Penny, we're out of beer." Pam mumbled as she checked the fridge. "Go to the…"
Penny hissed, and Pam was reminded of that traumatic moment with Penny days ago. The hungover Pam twitched.
"On second thought, I'll so get it." Pam said, running out with her purse.
She had neglected to tie her robe.
"Damn it, Pam! NOT AGAIN!" Lewis screamed, trying to avert his eyes.
Alex snapped a photo on his phone for future use. It was not going to be his proudest moment when he went inside, but he'd delete it later after he was done.
[Shadow Farm Theme Unlocked – Cues: kudasai – technicolor]
Taeko awoke to hit his head on a text box to which he was confused to how that happened.
[You've leveled up in Mining! You obtained a "Transmute(Fe)" recipe where you can turn 3 Copper Bars into one Silver Bar.]
"Oh joy." Taeko thought sarcastically. "And I don't have a watering can, still."
His phone blipped from with a message from Maru.
[Text Message from Maru]
[Your friend, Alejandro, was a real help in setting this whole thing up! Yesterday evening, he and Shizune showed up over our place in a helicopter with some girl. You did not tell me you had a sister. Nevertheless, the deal was arranged in my room. I needed help with the logo, and I wound have to try to talk Sebastian. He seemed reluctant at first until he met Hikari. How come you didn't tell you and Seb were old friends?! I've been trying to bond with my half-brother for years, and you two know each other so well already. Either way, he helped with the logo. In the end, the product was finalized, and Regen Revolution is a-go. Seb came up with the name, and I went it with it for its catchiness. Dad thought it was lame, but his ideas were not that good. Plus, he wound up getting decked by Hikari…something about you he said. Either way, I sent you two pictures. The original logo for the product. / The other one is a photo I want you to have.]
"I should hang out with Sebastian more often." Taeko thought.
[Maru's trying to bond with Sebastian while slowly defying her father. Friendship with Maru is increased by 140 friendship points.]
"That's nice at least." Taeko said before checking the attachments.
The logo was of Maru in a white tank top with her glasses taking off that scary shiny look. Taeko realized this was Sebastian's artwork giving it a chibi. The logo was in a white diamond frame with "Regen Revolution" emblazoned on it. He was impressed with Seb's artwork on this one and it even had his insignia on an armband that Maru wore. The pose was oddly familiar, and the game actually helped him to figure that out. It's the H1 pose from Bleedingpervert's aheago face meme! Same hand gesture against the head just with a smirking face instead of an orgasm face.
"Did Seb do the pose like that, or did Maru ask him to do it?" Taeko thought. "Best not think on that. Next picture."
Taeko was greeted by a sight that made him blush as the photo was Maru cosplaying as a Team Skull Grunt. She wore a black sleeveless tank top with a white X at the bottom, the white booty shorts, socks, sneakers, and the needed accessories. She posed to look tough but was blushing too much. Taeko noticed little wisps of brown hair from her underarms and sighed.
"Damn it. It's only been eight days. Why am I feeling so pent-up?" Taeko groaned out.
"Because you're getting the right stimuli." Kyu said making her appearance. "And all she needs to do is dye her hair, and it's perfect."
"Kyu, not in the mood." Taeko groaned.
"Oh, come now, aren't you happy to see me? I wanted to let you know that I'm soon to be married soon. Tora proposed!" Kyu said ecstatic.
"I pity any children you'll have." Taeko said flatly.
"Says the virgin. I did you a huge favor, and you'll be wishing I stuck around to thank me!" Kyu said in a faux-indignant tone before leaving through a swirling portal that vanished as quickly as it came.
Taeko got up and lumbered into the kitchen to find breakfast for him on the table and food for the pets on the ground in their bowls.
"[Complete Breakfast]? Ok, a temp boost in energy and a plus two to farming? I'm game." Taeko said hastily starting to eat breakfast as he took it with him on the couch to watch the morning news. "Oh, it'll rain tomorrow, and luck's meh."
Once done eating, he showered and dressed for the day. He found a new set of clothes for him in his closest apparently from Tora with a note.
"If you really want to stand out, wear these." Taeko said reading the note before opening the boxes. "…Kick ass!"
Taeko used [Observe] on one set.
[Basic Pillow Jacket – Body (Equip Item) – Escape from the ordinary in this warm, comfortable blue diamond-quilted flight jacket. (FusionFall collectible)]
[Basic Berserker Cargos (Boys) – Legs (Equip Item) - Changeable-length black cargos travel from cool climate to warm without breaking a sweat. (FusionFall collectible)]
[Basic Cyber Skaters (Boys) – Feet (Equip Item) - Multicolor skate shoes with tech accents. Slip them on, save the world. (FusionFall collectible)]
Taeko hastily got on that hoodie, adding another folding shirt underneath it, and got on those cargos adjusting them to go long. A text box came up once he put them on.
[The items you were given are base, and thus don't add to stats or give bonuses. You can now find FusionFall-themed items including clothes, accessories, weapons, and more in drops. Hat Mouse, the Adventure's Guild, and the Traveling Merchant's stock will sometimes carry FF-related items. Unlike the two base sets you got, the others will have bonuses! You can even gift them to your friends, but reactions will be mixed.]
"Ok, I'm all game for that!" Taeko said thrilled on the idea of having some of the weapons from that old game. "I could use an actual gun."
Taeko noticed that the other set was for a female.
[Basic Goth Blouse (Girls) – Body (Equip Item) - This sweetheart neckline and laced bodice can handle anything Planet Fusion dishes out. (FusionFall collectible)(Wearable by females only)]
[Basic Goth Skirt (Girls) – Legs (Equip Item) - Layers and layers of ruffles and lace disguise the fierce fighter wearing them! (FusionFall collectible)(Wearable by females only)]
[Basic Siamese Boots (Girls) – Feet (Equip Item) - Lace-up blue boots with fold-down cuff. Ankle support for long missions! (FusionFall collectible)(Wearable by females only)]
"Those got to go to Abs." Taeko said shoving those three into his inventory before putting the new shoes back in the closet. "Days already off to a heated start."
Outside was a bit windy, but it was hot enough for Taeko to wear his Pillow Jacket unzipped. Logan and Tom dawdled out as Taeko filled their water bowls before heading to the crops. His jaw nearly smashed to the ground at what he saw. Smack dab was a giant cauliflower!
"Woohoo! Looks like I'll need an axe or something to harvest it. But I could use punch it!" Taeko said cracking his knuckles.
It took a few hits, but it was harvested leading to a whopping 21 [Cauliflowers] of Silver Quality. He called up San to help collect crops.
"You have Azorium?!" San said holding an [Ancient Fruit]. "I thought these things were extinct."
"Azorium?" Taeko asked, getting the [Green Beans].
"Moro had said that those fruits existed centuries ago. It is said that these things are only to be eaten by divine beings. It grants whoever consumes it incredible power." San explained.
Taeko was slightly pissed for the game to explain that he cannot eat it raw and it had to be either juiced or make into jam through methods he could not do yet.
"Can I have one, please?" San asked trying to sound sweet.
With all the crap Taeko had put up with and the pent-up issues he had; it had a grin formed on his face until he looked at his option.
"It's only dancing or stripping! Oh well, if she's nude around me. It'll normalize me…yeah…normalize me." Taeko thought of rationalizing his options.
"I'll give it up in exchange you strip down right now and work naked at my request." Taeko said.
Whoosh! San's clothes were thrown off as she looked down at the [Ancient Fruit].
"Worth it." San said/Taeko thought.
The harvest was productive with [Rhubarb], 4 [Green Beans], and 3 [Ancient Fruits]. San was a lot more willing to water the crops with no complaint and Taeko watched sitting on his fence with a smirk.
"I need to work faster on domesticating her." Taeko said to himself.
"Taeko, I'm done." San said panting as she wiped the sweat off her body.
"All right, you can go." Taeko remarked.
"Wait, is there any way you can get me more food?" San asked.
A text box came up for a quest for San.
[San Quest]
Swift Scavengers – Take San to a night out on the town to raid the trashcans in town at night and thensome.
Quest Objectives:
- Summon San at night
- Sneak with her into town late enough at night.
- Raid the trashcans
Bonus Objectives:
- Get away with groping San in some form
Quest Completion Reward:
- 300 Gold
- +San will become more domesticated.
- San will gain the hobby
Quest Failure:
- It's best you don't get caught or else, you'll have to explain yourself
Bonus Objective Reward:
- +Added domestication
- +San could develop a craving for your touch
[This quest doesn't have a time limit and can be started whenever night you ask.]
Taeko accepted the quest and told San he would consider it as she left. Taeko looked at his katana and thought that he really wanted a second sword. A blade of actual quality.
"It's only 8 a.m." Taeko thought putting the [Iron Bar] in a storage chest. "May as well prep to go to the mines!"
Taeko cooked up [Pancakes] and took out 6 [Cookies] and the last of the [Field Snacks] while putting away the crops along with the syrup. He kept enough of the [Cauliflower] crops to give to Alex.
"But first, Alex. I promised him the cauliflower." Taeko said closing the fridge.
Running out of the house, Logan came running after as Tom decided to watch the coop. In town, Lewis was updating the board only to see Taeko run by with his faithful dog.
"Morning Mayor!" Taeko said rushing by.
"Taeko! Morning to you too. Don't push yourself too hard out there!" Lewis said with concern.
"Pushing myself is a family thing." Taeko said skidding to a stop in front of Alex's home.
He entered to find Alex in the middle of breakfast with his grandparents.
"Morning." Taeko said as Logan panted.
"Taeko, how good it is to see you. Care to join us for breakfast?" Evelyn offered.
"Sorry, I ate already. I'm actually here to deliver something to Alex." Taeko said as Alex shot up.
"I thought they wouldn't be ready until later." Alex said ,surprised.
A bag of Cauliflower had materialized behind his back in Taeko's hand as he brought it to the forefront.
"Well, I think you could say a cute pink-haired crop fairy paid me a visit!" Taeko said opening it to show fresh cauliflower.
[Kyu: Suck up!]
Taeko snickered at that as Alex looked down in shock.
"Yeesh, the scent of it is strong." George said covering his nose. "Alex, why did you ask for all that cauliflower?"
"Well, I asked Taeko to grow some because Grandma wanted some to cook with. Figured it'd be better fresh than from Joja." Alex said sheepishly.
"I thought you two didn't really get along." Evelyn said with raised eyebrow.
"I doubt we will, but I was willing to put along our issues for you, Baachan. Plus, it's business. I can't refuse business. So, how much did you need?" Taeko asked.
"About 5." Evelyn said.
"Sale price on these of a better quality go for 218 each bringing the total up about 1,090. But I'll slice it in half to 545. Least I can do for you, Baachan. I'll even toss in 3 Leeks for free." Taeko remarked.
Alex had a look on his face that screamed, "OH THANK YOBA!", only for Taeko to catch that look glaring at him.
"To be fair, I only put aside 1,000 gold. I had no idea it was going to be that expensive." Alex said raising his hands in defense.
"Well, give him the thousand, Alex. It's only fair." George said as Taeko handed off 5 Cauliflowers and 3 Leeks to Evelyn to put in the fridge.
Alex groaned and paid Taeko as the bag with the rest of cauliflower vanished back into his [Inventory].
"Pleasure doing business." Taeko said with a smirk.
"A bit dickish, much?" Alex muttered.
[Quest Completed – Alex Quest 1]
Health Food – Alex needs some actual cauliflower instead of Joja's crap, so go grow some!
Quest Objectives:
- Grow cauliflower on your farm. (Done)
- Deliver (5) Cauliflower to Alex. (Done)
Bonus Objectives:
- Deliver Cauliflower of silver quality or higher! (Aced!)
Quest Completion Reward:
- 500 Gold from Alex
- +135 Friendship with Alex, +100 Friendship with Evelyn, +100 Friendship with George.
- Possible Alex-related quests in the future.
Quest Failure:
- -135 Friendship with Alex
- Evelyn gets sick.
Bonus Objectives:
- Provide (3) Leeks with the Cauliflower
Bonus Objective Reward:
- Surprise gift from George
Taeko felt good aiding his neighbors (along with the added 500 gold the game gave) and was moving to leave.
"Wait. I might have something that could help you out." George said rolling up to an old chest. "Since you're going in the Mines. Figured you'd need this."
George gave Taeko a pair of night vision goggles.
[Infrared Goggles– Glasses (Equip Item) – Night vision is yours! Get the edge over your foes by sneaking up on them in the dark. (FusionFall collectible) [Allows for night-vision in darkness. Once equipped, they can be summoned on and off at will.]]
"George, I don't what to say other than this will come in handy exploring the mine. No more torches for me, I guess." Taeko said taking them up.
"Think nothing of it, Taeko. You need to stay safe in the Mines at least." George remarked with a small smile. "Better you use them then to let that gather dust."
"Then, I'll put it to good use." Taeko said, taking his leave.
Taeko hurried back to the farm to shove the rest Cauliflowers and Yams in the fridge and equipped the [Infrared Goggles] de-summoning him in the process.
"Ok, I'm set and ready to go down to the mines!" Taeko said leaving the house with Logan in tow.
Back in town, Taeko was determined to get to the Mines with no interruptions, but he decided to go get Abigail. He found her at home who perked up to see him.
"Taeko, those are some odd clothes." Abigail admitted. "I like that. They look familiar."
"Their FusionFall collectibles, and I got you some. Their basic, but they are suitable for battle!" Taeko said, handing her the set he got.
Abigail's eyes went wide, and, in a blur, she went into her room to change into them. Caroline walked up staying good morning to Taeko only to see Abigail come out in her new clothes with Espada at her side.
[Friendship with Caroline rose to two hearts!]
"Oh my, that looks so adorable, but did it have to be in black?" Caroline said. "And when did you even get that form?"
"Gift from a member of the family." Taeko muttered. "We're in a hurry because we're off to the Mines."
Both rushed out leaving Caroline annoyed and gave off a sigh.
"I can barely get Abigail to wear a dress or a skirt, and you do it in less than twp weeks." Caroline muttered.
Taeko decided to save the green bean for the bundle as they arrived at the Mines taking the elevator down to the 10th floor before taking the ladder down to the next floor.
[Floor 11]
[Mine Brown Earth Jungle Theme Unlocked: Kirby Super Star Ultra – Underground Forest Area]
Unlike the previous floors, this floor appeared to be an entire underground jungle trees and small pools of water and pools of green goo.
"What in the hell?" Abigail said shocked as Logan trotted by her side. "Look there's green goo, and it's not slime."
Taeko looked it over closely as it had corrosive air to it. Logan wound up stepping on a patch of it and howled in pain. He rushed over to his master's side with a few lost hit points.
"This crap almost looks like Fusion Matter." Abigail remarked fearfully.
"I wouldn't be surprised if this had Joja's name all over it…oh son of a bitch!" Taeko said, noticing a floating barrel with Joja's logo on it.
"I joked that Joja was an "infection", but I can't laugh at that anymore." Abigail said, frightened by this.
[Sudden BGM Change: Outlast Official Soundtrack _ 02 Welcome to the Asylum]
Taeko had a thought and realized where he remembered that secondary logo on the barrel from. Taeko royally paled and looked to Abigail, who was shaking a bit.
"Abigail, have you ever played Outlast?" Taeko asked.
"Not really…does watching Lanipator play it count?" Abigail asked.
"Close enough….because look at that barrel." Taeko said pointing out a dead ringer for Murkoff's logo.
"Holy….shit." Abigail said taking a picture with her phone to look that up. "It says that's the logo for Madoff Corporation. Basically, seems they were the real life Murkoff. However, it says that their company went bankrupt after a brave employee exposed its illegal actions in human experimentation, mutations, and fucking around with chemicals. While most of their heads were imprisoned, Joja brought up most of Madoff's assets. You don't think they were…."
"Shit. I knew Joja was in some dark shit, but why dump this shit down here?" Taeko remarked.
"I think I may know why. Think about it, for the most part, this town isn't a major mining town like it was years ago. Add that the fact that Joja is trying to squeeze the business owners out of business for them to leave the valley for years since they came here. You don't think…" Abigail remarked as they walked through the forested floor.
"It all makes sense. Why…the ledgers I used to managed showed that so much money into this place. Why my old boss sent me off to die when I was asking about the increase of spending to unknown projects. The motherfucker was covering this up!" Taeko said fuming.
"Taeko. Remember when you were comparing it to Fusion Matter? You weren't far off! LOOK!" Abigail said as globs of Fusion Matter rose out of those polls with fanged grins and glowing red eyes.
[Enemy – Fusion Spawn – These used to be ordinary slimes until Joja experimented by dropping their Madoff Matter on them and the surrounding creatures. Thus, these toxic terrors were born. They attack by a rolling attack, by bounce, or they bite. They can also bounce off objects for momentum like their counterparts. While they are weak on their own, they swarm in groups to increase their strength. Stats: HP (55) / Damage (15) / Speed (3) / EXP Given (5) / Drops: (Yes)]
Out of the pools came ten Fusion Spawns, and Taeko steeled himself looking at his phone feigning he had looked up information being putting it away.
"I did a bit of digging on my own. Apparently, these things are made of "Madoff Matter" which is similar to Fusion Matter oddly enough. Useful for several things, but corrosive in the open." Taeko remarked thinking the Game had something to do with this.
Before Taeko could command Logan, Abigail got in front of them and shouted with a glowing blue hand, "Blizzara!"
Half of them were suddenly frozen solid as she blasted them to pieces with Thunder.
"Not bad, Abby. You're growing. Logan! Use Flame Wheel!" Taeko said using a Hadouken to blast one into oblivion.
A flaming wheel of carnage tore through the remaining spawn before Logan broke out of it hungry for battle. Taeko noticed they dropped two crates, literal crates. Taeko opened both up to find weapons.
[Weapon - Crystal Pistol – Pistol - This trusty sidearm makes use of material from Crystalline Caverns to fire a concentrated beam. Short-range/Damage Output: (20-30) (FusionFall Collectible)]
[Weapon – Luxury Rifle – Rifle - A lavish piece of hardware that fires concentrated protonic energy at its target. Long-range/Damage Output: (21-28) (FusionFall Collectible)]
"Dibs on the rifle!" Abigail said taking it up. "It's just like in the game."
Taeko took up the Crystal Pistol before finding that the spawns also left money. Abigail and Taeko split the earnings leaving Taeko to gain 200 gold.
[Logan earned 5(*3 for extra kills) = 15 EXP Gained!]
The two found the staircase down to the next floor and went down. Taeko had not wanted to collect any of the material on that floor or this one.
[Floor 12]
[Mine Brown Earth - Infected Jungle Theme Unlocked: FusionFall Soundtrack - Jungle Training Area]
Abigail, Taeko, and Logan moved silently hoping not to trigger any traps. Taeko had his pistol on a holster while Abigail had her rifle on her back alongside Espada. The place kept looking worse and more infected. The area reminded him of the linear Infected caverns before a final boss. Taeko had to use his pickaxe to tear through several rocks gaining some items to his inventory in the process getting a geode in the process. His pickaxe had hit an enemy in the process which in fact punched him into the wall.
[Current Health: 599/670]
[Enemy – Gravel Golem – Gravel Golem was one of the early experiments of Madoff to produce easily moldable guardians. It was a semi-successful endeavor, but the Golems are needlessly violent. The mixture of Slime DNA and Madeoff Matter made them unstable. This is basically the bastard prototype. Stats: HP (105) / Damage (25) / Speed (6) / EXP Given (15) / Drops: (Yes)]
And it had company with three with him, leading Abigail and Logan to jump back to dodge their swings. Tempted as she was to cut through them with her sword, she stuck to her rifle knowing there was too many. Taeko recovered by chewing down on three cookies. He unsheathed Eclipse and charged.
"[Hiryu: Kaen]!" Taeko said jumping into the air slicing through one of the golems. "Now, bang!"
Taeko turned around to finish off the golem with a shot of his Crystal Pistol which got the cluster of stones to explode. Logan tried headbutting it but found little success. The dog snarled before running in to try again. This time, his body becomes outlined in red flames as it leapt up and tore through the golem.
"Whoa!" Abgail said, shocked to see that.
[Logan has learned through trial and error, "Nitro Charge", a move with the power of fire to increase movement speed every time used. 30 MP cost.]
[Logan's Current MP: 420/450]
"Abs, don't be stunned stupid. We got one more!" Taeko said as Abigail snapped out of her stupor.
Abigail opened fire on it before it collapsed and died. Plenty of stone pinged up in Taeko's inventory adding 100 to amount of he was already carrying. They treaded carefully through the floor and Taeko found an oddity. A metallic door in the midst of this jungle themed floor with metallic lining extending from it bearing the symbol of Joja. Taeko snapped a photo of the door before looking it over to see a panel on the center of the door.
"Let's see if I can pick the lock." Taeko said trying to sync his Huniebee to the frequency of the panel. "Or get some information."
It took a while and use of his old accounts with Joja that the company neglected to clear out after they declared him "dead" the first time after the "Souamil" incident.
"And…we're in. Seems that this room is some kind of a containment unit. I don't know what inside, but we'll find out now." Taeko said getting the door opened.
[Floor 12a – Fusion Containment Area 1]
[Sudden BGM Change: Tension Before a Confrontation - Metroid Fusion]
"Okay, what's with the music?" Abigail said, gaining an eerie chill.
Taeko was on full alert as they walked through the metallic room which was the walls were lined with red neon lighting and hardened green goo. The tense tune had not helped as Taeko was trying to sense if anything was in here. The fusion matter swirled forming shape into someone familiar to both Abigail and Taeko. However, despite her outfit being of dark colors, her green skin and glowing red eyes had them both realized that they…fighting a fusion and a text box flashed up for Taeko before the music got frantic.
[Boss BGM: VS. Arachnus - Metroid Fusion]
[Bonus Boss – Fusion Numbah Three – Joja's twisted experiments manifested in this form as one of their scientists decided to try to model it off the game itself to make super soldiers. Yeah, because doing that will totally not backfire. Unlike the games, they won't just blast gunk at you. Fusion Numbah Three fights specifically with her large hands to use as claws from her oversized sleeves for slashing attacks and using her speed to get in close. Her programmed is screwed, but she will not attack animals. Stats: HP (4500) / Stats Unknown / EXP Given (?) / Drops: (?)]
"Taeko, if we survive and I decide to go to JojaMart, smack me upside my head for doing so." Abigail said blankly.
"To be fair, if I wasn't a defiant asshole, I'd still shop at them just for the damn cola." Taeko admitted.
"Rrraghh!" Fusion Kuki screamed charging towards them.
Abigail got in front to open fire on Fusion Kiki landing several shots only the fusion to slice her [Luxury Rifle] in two.
"Fuck!" Abigail spat only for Logan to [Nitro Charge] the fusion to protect Abigail.
The brunt fusion was sent tumbling into the wall leaving a loud metal clang throughout the room. Taeko tossed her his [Crystal Pistol] before cracking his knuckles. However, a surprise came from the ceiling to which Abigail shot down before jumping back.
[Bonus Boss – Fusion Mushi – Fusion Numbah Three's young sister and her handler. JojaTech made her with the hopes to control her sister, but that backfired. Her programmed is equally screwed and will attack allies or enemies. Stats: HP (1500) / Stats Unknown / EXP Given (?) / Drops: (?)]
"Logan! Focus on Mushi and help Abigail beat her. Kuki's mine!" Taeko said unsheathing Eclipse.
"[Blade Beam]" Taeko said firing a green shockwave that tore into Fusion Kuki's shoulder before charging for his new attack. "Hope this works."
Fusion Kuki blazed towards him, and Taeko screamed, "[Airborne Assault!]", before launching himself forward, somersaulting with the blade in a glowing blue ball. Nailing the faker with a single slash that knocked Fusion Kuki back which propelled Taeko into the air. What he did not expect was Fusion Kuki to leap into the air and double axe handle him onto the floor.
[Current Health: 400/700]
Taeko munched down on the pancakes in his inventory and regained 40 Health Points which was not much but every point mattered to him. Fusion Kuki dived down to land a critical hit.
"[Counter!]" Taeko said taking a pose similar to another swordsman.
Fusion Kuki landed her blow only to be smashed into the ground by Taeko's counterattack. Taeko knew he had to end her and quickly. It was going to burn through his energy, and he had only one shot at this. He had to angle it just right as Abigail was slashing at Mushi but blasting her if she got too close for comfort. Taeko figured he may as well try something dangerous and stupid.
"Well, come on bitch, come at me!" Taeko taunted flipping her off for good measure.
Fusion Kuki bolted after him. The moment she got close enough. He made his move by swinging his sword in front of him sending the fusion airborne as he then leaps into the air after her.
"[Great...AETHER!]" Taeko said while slashing her seven times with his sword aflame with blue.
After which he kicked her twice in a sweeping mention slashing them four more times in the process before raising his sword.
"And here's the finale!" Taeko said slamming her down with the finishing blow.
Upon impact with the ground, a large explosion caused the lab's door to give away sending him and Kuki a floor down before slamming into the ground of [Floor 13a].
"Taeko!" Abgail said before tackling Fusion Mushi into the hole.
In the air, Abigail summoned Shiva and screamed, "Diamond Dust!", getting Fusion Mushi slammed into the ground with a barrage of ice freezing her goopy form solid. Logan used [Nitro Charge] to smash Fusion Mushi to pieces.
[Floor 13a - JojaTech Research Lab 1]
Fusion Kuki's body was mangled as she got back up as Taeko staggered to his feet.
[Current Health: 300/700 (Status: Bleeding) | Current Energy: 15/500]
"Crap." Taeko muttered to himself.
[Fusion Numbah Three's Health: 300/4500 (Status: Burning)]
"Shit!" Taeko said panting as Fusion Kuki limped over to him.
"Cure!" Abigail said as Taeko glowed green.
[Current Health: 450/700 (Status: Bleeding) | Current Energy: 215/500]
"You can heal now?" Taeko said feeling a bit better.
"It's a weak one, but I figured it'd be useful to practice." Abigail said Fusion Kuki leapt at him.
Ducking down, he used his hands as balance to give Fusion Kuki a [Côtelette] before spinning around to slam a [Selle] sending the fusion crashing into the wall before flipping to his feet.
"NOOOO!" Fusion Kuki screamed as her body completely destabilized.
Her body turned to goop alongside her sister as all that was left was a faded keycard and a flash drive with a Joja symbol.
[Floor 13a BGM Triggered: Metroid Fusion Music - BSL Control Station]
"Where are we?" Abigail asked.
"Seems to some kind of lab, and it seems this piece was built to monitor that kook from above. I think we can use the console in here to get some answers." Taeko said taking up the keycard and flash drive to the console.
Plugging in the drive and letting the keycard get scanned, Taeko worked on accessing the files. While doing so, text boxes flashed up.
[Logan has defeated a Gravel Golem! 15 EXP gained!]
[Logan has aiding Abigail in defeating Fusion Mushi and you in defeating Fusion Numbah Three. +150 EXP gained. Logan has leveled up to Level 11. Five points have been added to spend.]
[You have defeated Fusion Numbah Three! Combat Level is already maxed, so your energy and health are increased by 200 instead. Keycard can also can now be used to access the vault in Fusion Numbah's room.]
"Anything?" Abigail said using Cure to heal her wounds.
"Well, it seems the Fusion had a treasure room that we can now raid with the keycard. But I've discovered something horrifying. It seems that this is only one of five labs. Seems Joja is keeping their more unstable fusions further below in units similar to this one, but it seems this one was an early prototype. At least the later ones have the lab before the containment units." Taeko said reading the new information.
"Which floors?" Abigail asked.
"Similarly, to this one, it seems that a small set of floors are infected. The second one is on floors 36-38, the third one is on floors 57-59, the fourth is on floors 97-99, and the last prick is on 117-119. Each having their own set of infected monsters and so on. It's a miracle they haven't intermixed with the rest of the monsters." Taeko remarked amused. "And there's something else, apparently, the labs are supposed to have healing chambers. I'll activate the machine. Once I do, step in."
Taeko put in the command as a metallic door opened to reveal a healing tank ripped straight out of science fiction.
"I can't believe this shit! These assholes made a healing tank straight out of Dragon Ball Z? And they called it a failed experiment." Taeko said slack jawed at the notes he was finding about this.
Immediately, he copied the schematics, formulas, and notes before sending it to his online storage bin. Taeko was going to ensure he had a copy of all of this because he had a feeling that he played his cards right, he could really wealthy really soon. Taeko turned to see Abigail had already peeled off her clothes leaving her in a rather frilly bra and panties.
"It's rather rude to stare." Abigail teased.
"Right, I'll just go raid the treasure room upstairs then." Taeko said jumping back up through the hole.
[Floor 12a]
Taeko found the vault for the fusion and injected the keycard into the slot which locked the card in place.
"I had a feeling." Taeko said pushing the door open.
Inside, Taeko found the motherload. Two heavy bags of gold coins and several CRATES were in the were in the room, but what shocked Taeko was what was in the middle of it. There was a magicite there.
"I don't like this…one bit. But seeing that there's no information on it, either they found it not realizing its true powers or they knew but couldn't weaponize it. It's probably the first one." Taeko remarked. "From what the game is telling me it's a Kirin magicite."
He pocketed it before looking for anything else before finding a metallic chest that was not unlike the CRATES. Taeko opened it up and his jaw fell at what was inside. Plenty of gemstones were inside it.
[Item – Gemstone – Emerald - A precious stone with a brilliant green color. – Sell Price: 250g]
[Item – Gemstone – Aquamarine - A shimmery blue-green gem – Sell Price: 180g]
[Item – Gemstone – Ruby - A precious stone that is sought after for its rich color and beautiful luster.– Sell Price: 180g]
[Item – Gemstone – Prismatic Shard - A very rare and powerful substance with unknown origins. If taken to a special set of pillars in the desert, it's rumored to be a key to the "Ultimate Blade of the Valley" – Sell Price: 2,000g]
In total there were eighty gemstones consisting of 20 [Emeralds], 20 [Aquamarines], 5 [Rubies], 5 [Diamonds], 5 [Topazes], and 5 [Prismatic Shards]. Taeko had a goofy grin on his face as it went into his inventory as he knew had to make a few deliveries.
"Gunther's going to freak." Taeko thought as he hauled the bags of gold out to throw them down.
He also tossed the four CRATES before jumping down to land on one….right as Abigail was coming out of the tank. Taeko averted his eyes using his Huniebee and fought the temptation to snap photos. Kyu would probably be in his ear yelling "JUST DO IT". However, he cared for his student plus he wanted to keep some standards.
"I raided the room." Taeko said as Abigail hurriedly got dressed.
"You're not recording, are you?" Abigail asked, looking at him.
"Now, why would I do that? You already gave me some…interesting photos." Taeko said teasingly. "I have no need for what I could get in the future."
"Ha. Get in the future. That's quite dirty for you to think sensei…taking advantage of a little ol' country mouse." Abigail remarked sarcastically as she redressed.
"I don't know. Maybe it's because of the life I'm living, and the people I'm meeting in the Valley. I just feel a bit freer despite the danger. It feels more manageable than half the shit I went through in Joja." Taeko remarked. "So, now that you are fully healed. Heal me up please."
It took a few Cures before Taeko was back to full strength and then Taeko presented her with a Magicite.
"It's for Kirin. If I remember, it teaches Cure, Cura, Regen, Poisona, and Libra." Taeko remarked as Abigail held it up.
"Aw seriously. No attacks? Lame." Abigail pouted.
"You do know Libra allows you to see an enemy's stats, health, and possible weaknesses, right?" Taeko remarked.
Abigail blushed in embarrassment as she realized that would be very useful.
"You got me there…plus healing would save us money on getting things to heal us." Abigail said pocketing it. "I'll start working that once I finish learn all the stuff from the Shiva one."
"Great, now there's one thing to deal with the loot. In the bags, there's apparently….100,000 each in them." Taeko said flabbergasted.
Abigail had a blank look on her face before it grew into the biggest shit-eating, goofy looking grin imaginable. She knew once she hauled that amount in, her mother would forever have to shut up about her job.
"However, since I'm such a nice guy. You have most of it and I'll take a 50,000 cut." Taeko said sheepishly.
In actuality, that was to make up for taking all those Gems earlier. Abigail did not notice this, but instead chose to roll around in the gold.
"With this much, I can a new console, redecorate my room, or get my own place." Abigail said jovially. "Sky's the limit."
Taeko took his cut not feeling guilty about pocketing those Gems anyway. He needed them more for bundles and quests anyway. Then came the CRATES.
"By the way, you want your Crystal Pistol back?" Abigail offered.
"Nah, you keep it." Taeko insisted. "I always preferred Shatterguns."
The glowing white CRATE was opened first and inside of it was a set of clothes.
[Alpha Blacklight Shirt – Body (Equip Item) – Stand apart from any crowd in this dark zip-front shirt with its own blue illumination. (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense)(Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)]
[Alpha Blacklight Pants – Legs (Equip Item) - Stand apart from any crowd in these pants with its own blue illumination. (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense)(Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)]
[Alpha Blacklight Shoes – Feet (Equip Item) – Shoes emblazed with illumination. Kick spawns in style. (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense, +2 Speed)(Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)]
"Ninja sandals, you've been replaced!" Taeko thought eyeing the stats on them before saying, "Dibs on the Blacklight gear."
Abigail opened up the gold glowing one and her grin got wider. Taeko used [Observe] and was slowly debating if he should call dibs on it. However, Abigail needed up on the defense side than him.
[Proton Shirt - Body (Equip Item) - Particle physics joins forces with modern tech style in this tailored blue body armor. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 Defense)]
[Proton Pants - Pants (Equip Item) - Particle physics joins forces with modern tech style in these tailored blue armored pants. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 Defense)]
[Proton Shoes - Body (Equip Item) - Particle physics joins forces with modern tech style in these tailored blue boots. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 Defense, + 1 Speed)]
"I will never take these off." Abigail said peeling off her clothes to try them on. "Holy shit, the chest armor is adjusting to my body! Now, all I need is a helmet."
"Shit, it's almost 12. We need to go down to the next two floors to get to the elevator." Taeko said looking at the time.
"What about the last two CRATES?" Abigail said stuffing the 150,000 in her bag.
"Head to the door out. I got this, and here, I won't be needing this for now." Taeko said tossing Abigail his [Glow Ring].
Taeko began to change into the new set of clothes he got sending his old ones to inventory. Abigail had her eyes wandering but snapped back to find that door. She did not want to be a hypocrite. The new clothes had fit him like a glove as except and he discovered that he could trigger the glow at will. The Game had automatic moved his stuff to his new pockets leaving him to stride up to Abigail who found the door. He had sent the CRATES to his [Inventory].
[Floor 13]
The area was completely dark with little to no hints of light and Taeko summoned on the [Infrared Goggles] to see in the dark leaving the glow for Abigail to stay close to him. As they moved through the floor, they bumped into someone or someone.
"Linus…what the heck are you doing here?" Taeko asked.
"Admittedly, I've never told you this, but I have traversed these mines for years before Joja came along. I've been keeping an eye on you and Abigail just in case. Not all the time, but when I can. Sorry about that." Linus said honestly.
"As far as I am concerned, I don't mind. You did keep your distance, so it's not too bad. I'm surprised you're wearing ninja wear." Taeko said noticing it was apart from the [Taijutsu Ninja Set].
"Found it in one of the areas Joja left earlier this morning. I normally wouldn't, but it's breathable for the weather. Plus, I can mend my garden garment into a cloak to hide in. Better for hunting. Oddly enough, all I found was a chest with this in a small hidden metallic room on the top floor." Linus said slipping off the hood. "But I came down after you guys and noticed all of this…"
Taeko filled Linus in on what he missed, and Linus was horrified.
"By Yoba almighty…" Linus said shocked.
"By the way, who's Yoba?" Taeko said confused.
"Basically, it's the Ferngull Republic's name for God according to history." Abigail remarked. "Basically, it's one of the many alternate names like Jehovah, I think."
"Oh…it's a local connotation. Well, that explains a few things." Taeko remarked relieved.
"This is bad. If what you said is true, I believe a ghost of my past has come to haunt me." Linus said in a low tone. "Taeko, like you…I used to be under Joja's grip. I was a botanist for their company years ago. I knew had a colleague who was working in the tech department that was my old friend, Dr. Amaro Talon. While I do stand by my decision not to really live in a house and live as I do, it serves a secondly purpose. Hiding from Talon. Most of this has Talon written all over it. He became a popular force in Joja and they funded his mad experiments for money and power over the populace. Talon wants me dead out of petty revenge for trying to expose his horrid deeds to the public all those years ago. I had not succeeded because the courts considered what I had was not to be enough evidence. However, Talon wanted revenge and I've been hiding ever since. I had lost plenty to him…."
"Fuck…I actually meet the asshole once before. He always creeped me out, and he had asked about my grandfather." Taeko said flashing back to an old meeting.
"I'm going to take a look in that lab." Linus said as Taeko tossed him the flash drive. "Thanks."
"No problem, and Linus…I'll make sure you can get an RV or something at the very least. You deserve it." Taeko said as he and Abigail went on ahead.
[Linus has told you an intimate secret! Friendship has risen to Four Hearts. Four Heart Scene is now available. Visit Linus at his tent between 8p.m. to 12a.m.]
Logan found the ladder down for the pair as they went to the next floor.
[Floor 14 – Music Shifts Back to the Standard Soundtrack]
"It's almost like there was no infection at all." Abigail remarked, looking around the seemingly normal floor.
"At the very least, Joja had it contained." Taeko remarked. "And it seems this floor is full of Cave Flies!"
[Enemy – Cave Fly – The mutated spawn that comes out of pupated grub, and they attack through flying by and biting their enemies. They loop around for another swing at you. They also tend to swarm their enemies doubling the damange. Stats: HP (22) / Damage (6) / Defense (1) / Speed (2) / EXP Given (10) / Drops: Yes]
Taeko got out the two CRATES to pop them open to see another [Crystal Pistol] and a shattergun.
[Weapon – Spark Gun – Shattergun - The handy Spark Gun fires small clusters of electricity at groups of monsters. Short-range/Damage Output: (25-30)(Fusion Fall Collectible)]
"Abigail, dual wield. The shattergun's mine." Taeko said taking the [Spark Gun] up.
"Fine." Abigail said cocking both pistols as the flies swarmed.
BLAM! ZAP! The two opened fire on them with Taeko yelling, "Call me the bug zapper, mutha buzzers!", while laughing like a loon. Fifty Cave Flies were now dead as scorch marks littered the room.
[You've slaughtered the swarm of Cave Flies. 30 Bug Meat, 10 White Algae, and 5 Ancient Seeds added to your inventory!]
"What a haul!" Abigail said stuffing loot she got into her bag. "But where's the way down?"
"Over there." Taeko said pointing over to the ladder down. "It's just behind that boulder."
Taeko used his pickaxe with little success and made a mental note to get an upgrade for his equipment. Charging a Hadouken, he blasted apart the boulder which contained plenty of copper ore and some stone. Abigail collected a few pieces for herself before they went down to the next floor.
[Floor 15]
The elevator dinged up and Taeko, Abigail, and Logan piled in to get up to the first floor.
The drained trio lumbered out.
"I'm heading to the Guild to sell off the Bug Meat and stuff." Abigail said hugging Taeko before walking away. "See ya around."
Taeko waved her off before jogging away and making his first stop at the Community Center. He had to check the bundles. Firstly, he deposited the [Green Bean] into the [Spring Crops Bundle] completing it.
[Spring Crops Bundle Complete! 20 Speed-Gro has been added to your Inventory as a reward.]
Taeko wound up starting another bundle concerning Emily, the Dye Bundle.
[Dye Bundle]
Red Mushroom
Sea Urchin
Sunflower
Duck Feather
Aquamarine [X]
Red Cabbage
He decided to dump a payment into one of the Vault bundles nailing off the 25,000 Gold Bundle getting rewarded with a [Crystalarium]. The idea of duplicating gems was interesting to the farming ronin. Plus, he figured that nailing the most annoying amount of gold first would be encouraging.
"I'll made sure to help Penny out before I deal with the Bus." Taeko said walking out of the center.
The next stop was the museum where Maru and Penny were talking at the counter as Vincent and Jas were doing classwork on the table nearby.
"Taeko! You look rough, my boy." Gunther said with concern as Maru and Penny turned to see the roughed-up farmer. "Nice threads, though."
"Thanks, Gunther." Taeko said wiping off the bit of blood of his face.
"Taeko! What the hell/heck happened to you?" Maru/Penny said frightened.
"Monster in the mines. A real nasty one, but I got new gun out of it and a bunch of stuff for you Gunther." Taeko said getting out an Emerald, Aquamarine, Ruby, Topaz, and a Prismatic Shard for the museum. "Personal best. 5 Gems in one day. Six, if the Geode I have here had a Gem in it."
"A Prismatic Shard? Where did get one of those? Those things are horribly rare! You can't even find one in the Mines here!" Maru said, grabbing Taeko by the collar. "Where. DID. YOU. GET. IT?!"
"I can't tell all the details, but let's just say Abigail and I stumbled onto something. Something I can't just say in public. All I can say is we found a few things. Me, a lot of jewels. In fact, why don't you have a [Prismatic Shard] yourself? I got a few of them." Taeko said offering one.
"Do you have any idea of what this could do, Taeko? Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Maru said pocketing it before slamming a wet kiss on Taeko's lips before skipping out of the museum.
[You gave Maru a Loved Gift! Friendship is increased by 80 points!]
"Well, Taeko. That brings you up in rank, and you are due for a reward. The "Standing Geode", it's made of obsidian. Makes for a nice place for the home. I can send that to your place when the library closes." Gunther said with a grin.
"Thanks." Taeko said, which had Penny was grateful for the new additions to the museum.
"Let me help you place them, Taeko." Penny said walking alongside Taeko. "So, I see you're becoming Mr. Popular."
"Pen, it's been only two weeks and counting." Taeko said as they placed the jewels on the stands to display them. "Besides, I need to socialize."
"Because socializing gets you kisses." Penny teased.
"Jellie, much?" Taeko shot out.
"Probably." Jas snarked as Vincent snickered.
The innocent knight did not get it, but he found Penny's face too funny not to laugh at. Taeko rolled his eyes.
"You'd think I wouldn't get something for you, Pen? Knowing you?" Taeko said sliding over to 2 [Diamonds] and 2 [Emeralds] for her. "Sell one of each and keep the other for yourself."
"Taeko, I couldn't…" Penny said nervously.
"But I insist." Taeko said walking away. "They are your favorites."
[Penny is grateful for sharing your good fortune. Friendship is now at 5 Hearts.]
The next shop was Clint's and the blacksmith of the hour was on his phone laughing at a video of someone else's failures.
"Clint." Taeko said frightening the blacksmith. "I must ask you…what if I told you I came across the Prismatic Shard."
Clint put his phone down and laughed in Taeko's face.
"One of the rarest materials out there? Ha, you bring just one of those, and I'll upgrade all your tools to Copper for free!" Clint said in his laughter.
CLINK! CLINK! CLINK! CLINK! Clint was speechless that Taeko had not one, but FOUR of them in front of his face.
"So, do I just need bring the [Copper Bars]?" Taeko said with a smirk.
"[Prismatic Shards]?! Do you know how valuable they go for?" Clint remarked.
"Then, since you said you'd upgrade all my tools, all I need to do is bring you 15 [Copper Bars]." Taeko said with a smirk.
"Could I at least have one of them?" Clint said blankly. "We could call it even."
"Deal." Taeko said taking back three of them pleasure doing business. "I'll deliver the bars later in the afternoon. I'll meet you in the afternoon after I make the needed bars. I'll be back before five."
"All righty, pleasure doing business." Clint said blankly as Taeko left.
Once Taeko was gone, Clint did a victory dance. The blacksmith had plans to get some major upgrades to the forge, and he had connections to sell that shard for a pretty penny. Of course, he knew he could also get himself an upgraded RealDoll. Taeko strode for home only to run into Haley.
"You. Ugh, at least I don't have to go over to that jungle of a farm. Here's the gift card with 500 on it as promised. Thanks to you, I guess. So, thanks…" Haley said shoving the card in his hands. "Ugh…you smell like blood and guts."
"And just like that, you're not getting some of my treasures. I got plenty after donating some to the museum. Maybe I'll give your sister an emerald. Hell, A lot nicer than you are anyway." Taeko said walking off with Logan trotting behind him.
"Treasure! Wait?" Haley said running back to him as he pocketed the gift card. "Now, let me apologize."
"Really?" Taeko said annoyed. "Don't try to make a cheap apology."
Taeko walked away with Logan off to the farm leaving Haley behind.
"Where did Taeko get those clothes, though? That shirt could totally go with…no Haley focus?! You need to get him on your side! But how…" Haley thought.
[Shadow Farm BGM: BACKWHEN – Tiki]
Taeko lumbered home letting the Game's background music soothe him. He converted those five ancient seeds to [Ancient Fruit Seeds] before planting them with [Speed-Gro]. He went inside get after to unload by tossing the apple and white algae into the fridge. He set the [Crystalarium] down next to the furnace.
"Hm, I should put something in it. But maybe later." Taeko thought before putting the rest of his loot in the various storage chests.
He even had to make a new one to add more space. The clothes were shoved into a closet, before Taeko got to work on making some bars. Two hours later, he was able to make at least 9 Copper Bars which meant he could get one tool upgraded.
"For now, pickaxe." Taeko remarked putting four of the Copper Bars into storage. "Guess, I'll be taking a break from the mines."
Taeko got ready to leave, but not before spending those points on Logan's stats leading to balancing out every stat except strength. He also took a diamond and an emerald with him.
"I should pass by Marnie, though. I'll need more chickens, and I do have spending money." Taeko thought before leaving for Marnie's ranch.
[Cindersap Forest BGM: Pokémon Heartgold/Soulsilver OST: Viridian Forest]
He knew had to upgrade the coop soon and made the mental notes to start gathering the material needed. He entered the ranch to find Lewis and Marnie talking.
"Oh, Taeko! I'm just here checking on Marnie's finances." Lewis said adjust his cap.
"Why, mayor? I did not figure you the type to be giving out political favors to a pretty face." Taeko teased.
The look on their faces was one of someone who got caught doing something they should not.
"It's not like that…" Lewis said nervously.
Taeko had an inquisitive look on his face asking, "I was just joking…unless…is something going on?"
Logan sniffed Marnie before turning to Lewis looking up at him innocently. Lewis panicked!
"Well look at time, I need to go…do some fishing. It's a nice day for that!" Lewis said in a fast tone.
BLAM! Lewis dove out of the window breaking it before running off to the Beach. Taeko had a blank look on his face and Marnie was stunned.
"What the f-…bah, screw it. So, Marnie? I wanted to ask about cock." Taeko said.
"I wouldn't know about that! I haven't…oh wait, you're talking about chickens?" Marnie remarked with a nervous chuckle.
"I don't even know how you two hide this from the town. Either they are all dense or they are just waiting for you to hurry you to come out with it." Taeko said putting down 1,600 Gold. "And yes, I'm here to buy two hens. I'll name them Rei and Rojo."
"Well, I'll have them sent over." Marnie said accepting the payment.
Taeko sighed and tossed Marnie a [Diamond].
"Are you doing this to one up Lewis?" Marnie asked.
"Ehh…let's just say I came across a lot of jewels. I want you to share in my good fortune." Taeko said with a chuckle. "Your favorite, right?"
[You gave Marnie a loved gift! Friendship is increased by 80 points!]
Taeko left with Logan before noticing Tom nearby munching on a fish that he pulled out of the river. Taeko's own stomach growled, and he decided he had to get some lunch.
-SV-
[Music Not Applied to This Scene]
Caroline did not like that smug grin Abigail had on her face when she came home but was curious to see what got her in that mood. Pierre had taken a break from the store for lunch and the Belmonts were gathered around the table.
"Okay, Abigail? What is it that's got that grin on your face?" Caroline asked.
"Mom, remember when I asked you if I could get a Nintendo Switch?" Abigail said.
"Yes, and I told you that you had to earn the money if you want another console." Caroline said, crossing her arms.
Abigail's response? Dump off the bag full of gold right on the table to her parents' stunned faces.
"Taeko and I found a heaping pile of gold. This is my share…150,000." Abigail said coolly. "So, mother? You were saying about my job?"
"Ok…so maybe I was wrong. But I was just concerned about your safety. Just promise me, you'll get a fallback job at least." Caroline said concerned.
"Abigail, I'm so proud. With this, I can upgrade the store some more, and I may be able to compete with Joja this time around." Pierre remarked. "Now don't worry, I only need 20,000."
-SV-
The music of the Saloon could be heard from outside as Taeko neared it. Willy came up to him with a small smile on his face.
"Ah, Taeko. I've been wanting to see you. Business has been a bit slow today, and I wanted to ask if you wanted to join me fishing on the beach." Willy asked. "They'll be drinks and plenty of soup."
"I was going to chill at the saloon, but I actually wanted to get some fishing done. We can chat up but let me grab Tom." Taeko said.
At the mention of his cat's name, said cat appeared right next to Taeko and Logan thanks to the cape.
"Well never mind then, let's get fishing." Taeko said as they walked together to the beach. The two were on the docks with their poles out lined with bait. Tom was sent to [Hunt] with Logan. Taeko was grateful for the soup as he needed a fishing buff.
"I'm more of a chicken guy, but that was some good trout." Taeko said waiting for a bite.
"Thanks, I make and sell them myself. So, how's the farm?" Willy asked waiting for a bite himself.
"It's a slow crawl. The farm, at least. I do have the town to keep busy. That and the Mines." Taeko said as the ronin got a bite. "I keep finding things in there."
Fishing was always a bit of a difficult sport. While the minigame function of the Game made it easier than real-life fish, it was still a pain.
"I heard. Thanks for adding to the museum, my boy. While I am a fisherman at heart, I do fancy a bit of geology with a love for diamonds." Willy said as he got a bite as well.
With a struggle from the darting fish, he hauled it in and a [Sardine] fell into his hands.
[Fish – Sardine – A common ocean fish, nothing special. – Length of this fish: 11 inches (NEW RECORD!)]
Willy fished up a [Halibut] and tossed it into a bucket not noticing Taeko sending his to his [Inventory].
"That's a mild surprise. I can tell you, my man. I do enjoy treasure hunting. I even found those new threads in a hidden crate in the mines." Taeko said as he cast his line again. "Mind passing me a coffee?"
Willy handed Taeko a coffee which was quickly downed to focus on his line. Getting another bite, he fought to get that fish by noticing a treasure chest on the bobber. Fighting to get them both, he was able to haul them.
[Fish – Herring – A common ocean fish, nothing special. – Length of this fish: 33 inches (NEW RECORD!)]
As for the treasure chest, he opened it to find five pieces of [Coal], twenty pieces of [Copper Ore], and five pieces of [Gold Ore].
"Whew, not a bad haul. And it seems I got lucky!" Willy said hauling in an octopus and a treasure chest.
Inside Willy's chest was several diamonds much to the fisherman's joy.
"Heh, fishing with Taeko seems to have raised my luck a bit." Willy thought before offering some more trout soup.
"I'm game, Willy." Taeko said accepting the soup.
The pair fished, talking about different topics and learning from each other. In the hour they were fishing, Taeko hauled in a few more fish. Two anchovies, and two more sardines. A text box flashed up.
[Your fishing level has leveled up to 3. However, talking with Willy and learning fishing tip leveled you up to 4. Crab Pot crafting recipe unlocked, Dish o' the Sea recipe unlocked, you can now buy Crab Pots from Willy starting tomorrow, Recycling Machine crafting recipe unlocked, and casting distance has increased.]
"Swank." Taeko thought getting up before saying, "Thanks for the good time, and for the tips on fishing."
"No problem, my boy. Your granddad was a good customer of mine." Willy said looking at the time.
Taeko left calling his pets and he found them next to a pile of forage.
[Logan has found (1) Shrimp, (1) Snail, and (1) Lobster! 30 EXP gained! Logan is now on Level 12 with 5 points to spend. Tom has found (1) Periwinkle, (1) Emerald and (10) Clams! Tom gains 105 EXP! Tom has leveled up with points to spend!]
[Logan's diving yielded a new move! Logan has now learned Dive!]
[Tom has learned "Boiling Water Gun"!]
Taeko spent the points to up his pets' stats before collecting the gathered items to put them into his [Inventory].
"All right, let's go home." Taeko said as they sped off for home.
Taeko had set up a copper bar and a gold bar to cook in two furnaces. Taeko left Logan and Tom to rest and watch the house as Taeko rushed to the Community Center. First off was the [Crab Pot Bundle] and added some of the gathered items to it.
[Crab Pot Bundle] [9/10]
Lobster [X]
Crayfish
Crab [X]
Cockle [X]
Mussel [X]
Shrimp [X]
Snail [X]
Periwinkle [X]
Oyster [X]
Clam [X]
"I just need a crayfish." Taeko remarked before shifting his attention to another bundle in the fish tank. "Eh, I'll hold off on that."
Taeko returned to the farm to get the [Copper Bar] out of the furnace and got out the rest of the bars in storage to have 10 on his person. He shoved the fish in the fridge for later after he put the ores and coal in storage. He left to meet Clint who was about to leave for the Saloon.
"Hey, Clint. I got you 10 Copper Bars. And here's my axe and pickaxe. I'll get more ore to make enough bars for the hoe soon." Taeko said as Clint took it out of his hands.
"Don't rush yourself, Taeko." Clint said with a smirk.
Taeko shuddered at that creepy smirk, hurriedly bid goodbye, and moved away to go see Sebastian. Sebastian knew something was up when Taeko came down to his room slightly jilted.
"Taeko, what's wrong?" Sebastian asked.
"Plenty of things. I nearly get killed by monster, and I'm just fine with that. But Clint's grin, it unnerves me." Taeko said sitting on one of Seb's office chairs.
"In all fairness, you can kill a monster. You wouldn't be able to get away with murdering Clint. Sadly, despite his weirdness, he is the only blacksmith in town. Hell, my mom doesn't even like Clint that much, and she likes everybody. Either way, what's with the toy on your back?" Sebastian said pointing to the Spark Gun. "And the clothes look familiar."
"It's real, Seb. Remember FusionFall? Well, you're not going to believe this…" Taeko said with a sigh. "What I will tell you at the moment needs to stay secret. Last thing I need is Joja or your jackass of a step-dad deciding to go investigate this…even if he runs a good risk of dying to what I've seen."
"Maybe we should talk elsewhere then." Sebastian said finishing up his work. "I'm done with my programming for the day. Besides, you look like you need a smoke."
"Honestly, I'd refuse, but fuck it, I need something to take the edge off. But answer me this, it's pot you're smoking right?" Taeko asked.
"Of course! Nicotine's fucking cancer. Plus, if you smoke the right amount, you get some sweet benefits." Sebastian said getting two blunts and his lighter.
[Mountain Lake BGM Unlocked: Sinitus Tempo - Lonesome Cowboy (Cowboy Bebop)]
A few minutes later, the pair of friends were sitting on the ground leaning on the tree in the middle of lake. Taeko took a drag after finishing his explanation.
"Shit, man. Fusion monsters? Damn, I'd almost call Joja genius. Almost. You find out what happened to Madoff?" Sebastian asked taking a puff.
"They were exposed and Joja took over most of their operations. They didn't just replicate the Fusions, but the clothes, the weapons, and even the monsters in small pockets of the Mines. I can't ever look at FusionFall the same man." Taeko said breathing out smoke.
"Probably, the worst time to tell you, but fans were remaking the game. FusionFall Legacy's the planned remake, but they reintroduced the old Fall before the Academy version. It's called FusionFall Retro." Sebastian said as Taeko scowled.
"Damn it. I can't even put time to play it…too busy for that." Taeko said bitterly. "Soon, though."
"Shit, what are you doing to do about the monsters?" Sebastian asked.
"Slay them all. The regular monsters are a pain, yes, but they are a part of the environment. But these fusions….need to die. If they escape the mines, the town's fucked." Taeko said flatly.
"I think I'll get my mace out, and train with it just in case." Sebastian said wide-eyed.
"Y'know, I'm glad I did this with you. To know, we'd end up like this. Baked under the evening sky…I just missed hanging with you." Taeko said soaking in the beats.
"Same here, Taeko, same here. I can…" Sebastian said getting interrupted by his phone.
He answered with a groan realizing it was his stepdad of the hour and answered reluctantly before hanging up soon after.
"Well, dinner's ready." Sebastian said, getting up and finishing off his blunt.
"I'll be seeing you." Taeko said walking away. "Maybe, you, Abs, Shane, and Sam could meet up at my place on Friday…and hang out. I won't be mining for a while."
"Well, you do have a big farmhouse? But why Shane? He's a bit of a grump." Sebastian asked curiously.
"Shane's a grump because he's going through some shit. It's not family shit like yours, but he needs some friends." Taeko said as he walked away.
[Music Ends]
The music died down as Taeko walked into town as Penny flagged him down while having a heavy bag in one hand and groceries in another.
"Hey Pen, need a hand?" Taeko said taking one of the bags out of her hands.
"Thanks. Hey…I didn't know you smoked." Penny said with a raised eyebrow.
"I don't. It was one-time bonding thing I did with Seb. It's complicated, and if it assures you, it's not nicotine." Taeko remarked.
"Well…if that's the case." Penny said as she and Taeko entered the trailer. "Ugh!"
The trailer was nothing short of a mess, and Taeko inadvertently entered the four-heart event. Dirty clothes were all over the floor, bottles of spilt booze, and several toys of pleasures were on the floor. Penny looked mortified, and Taeko was impassive.
"I don't know where those toys came from." Penny said with a fierce blush.
"Pen, I know it's only been two weeks. But you seem like the person who would be mortified at the idea of leaving a vibrator in the open or you'd be privier to use your fingers." Taeko remarked which got Penny to blush deeper.
She did not want to admit that the medium sized purple one was hers and was gagging at the fact that Pam had definitely used it.
"Just great. Now I am stuck using my fingers!" Penny thought bitterly.
"Need help to clean this up?" Taeko said putting out the end of the blunt in a small puddle of beer on the counter before tossing it in the trash. "I insist. You had a long day from teaching, and I assume you do have papers to grade or a lesson plan to deal with."
"Taeko…thanks." Penny said, putting her things away. "I'll take the kitchen. You can deal with the rest."
"You want to wash those toys on the ground? I know you have to boil them in water..." Taeko said getting a napkin to pick one up. "Though, I think you may want to wash this one separate and with plenty of bleach."
"Why…OH YOBA…" Penny said getting a whiff of it. "Forget washing it, toss it out. It's rancid!"
That one was tossed as the others were boiled. Taeko had to mop, sweep, and get the place to not smell like a brothel. Taeko even decided to hold up on the San mission until later in the week as he would be in no mood to deal with her after this. At the moment, he was worried for Penny.
"Jeez, what's with everyone in his town? I think the only person here without issues…is Sam…and maybe Elliot. Shit, I should probably hang out with him more. He is a writer and could lead somewhere." Taeko thought. "There's also Harvey and the kids. Aside for those five, everyone here is just…all over the place. Penny and Sebastian got the shittiest hand though."
"And it's finally done…and it took two hours. Well, there's goes any free time I had…" Penny said disappointed. "But thanks for suffering with me."
"It's not a big issue. You needed the help." Taeko said to toss the last empty beer can only for Pam to walk in.
"Whaddya think you're doing?!" Pam roared fuming looking around. "Stop it! I had everything the way I liked it."
"The way you liked it. You do realize Penny lives here too, right?" Taeko said glaring at Pam.
"Fuck off!" Pam said coldly.
"Mom! You've been drinking at the saloon, and I can smell the beer. Damn it, how much money are you going to burn on booze?!" Penny said getting a bit of nerve. "I'd ask if you'd see the effect it has on me, but like you give a shit! Your selfish antics are going to get you killed someday."
Pam exploded with rage with the bottle of beer in her hand starting.
"Selfish? I put a roof over your head and clothes on your back, and you call me selfish?! You ungrateful little bit…" Pam said only for Taeko to get in-between them.
"Normally, I wouldn't step in, but you're drunk and let's not say or do anything that you'll regre-" Taeko said only for Pam to sucker-smash the bottle of booze on Taeko's head getting him to stumble back into Penny. Penny gasped, and her heart raced as blood trickled down Taeko's head.
"Won't regret that. Honestly wanted to knock your ass down a peg for your smartass attitude when we first met. Ya half-gook bastard." Pam said slurred.
Sensory overload from Taeko's blood had gotten Penny to pass out, and all Taeko saw was red. Two of his berserk buttons were pressed and Pam was going to pay for them both.
Shane was leaving the saloon enjoying the night air in a decent mood for once. He had willed himself to have only one beer tonight as he was aiming to put some gold into something for himself. He always put aside some money from his check for himself to invest in something "big". Abigail was hauling out the trash to dump in the trashcan.
WHAM!
Pam was kicked right out of the door tumbling on the dirt before she forced herself up. Out walked Taeko who had an expression that barely contained his anger. A shard of that beer bottle was in Taeko's head much to Shane and Abigail's horror as he ripped it out. It frightened them given the glare Taeko had for Pam. Taeko dropped Eclipse and his [Spark Gun] to the ground to crack his knuckles. Unknowingly, the loud noise had attracted a few people out of the Saloon.
"This isn't going to end well….for Pam." Leah said shaking her head. "Taeko's going to stomp her face in."
"Shouldn't we try to stop this?" Lewis asked frantically.
"I'm sorry, but none of us want to end up brutalized. I'm betting 600 gold on Taeko." Shane said confidently.
"Ha! Pam's an expert at drunken boxing! I'll wager double that!" Gus said with a smirk.
"I can't believe that you all are wagering on this! Someone's going to get hurt…..and end up in my clinic." Harvey said realizing he technically would gain something out of this.
It still was not right, but Harvey's words died in his throat as he knew he was not going to get in between that. Bets were made, and the fight was on.
[Sudden BGM Change: One Piece OST – Fight Back Sanji!]
Taeko took a stance before running in on the offense. Dodging a swipe of the broken beer bottle, Taeko jumped into the air saying, "[Basse Côte]". He kicked one leg straight forward to slam Pam's face while kicking the other one backwards to provide momentum to flip over Pam.
"[Longe]" Taeko said sweeping kicking Pam from behind to send her spinning. "[Tendron!]"
Pam spat up a bit of blood as Taeko's foot crashed between her collar bone, but he was not done.
"[Flanchet!]" Taeko said using a simple kick to the stomach to lead to his next attacks. "[Qusai! Queue! Crisseau!]"
Alex was wondering what the racket was only to see something that had him consider taking up martial arts. Taeko flipped over into a double-handed handstand, spinning around to kick Pam's midsection, and used the momentum to slam his other foot into her tailbone.
"That all you got. I think all Asians could fight." Pam slurred as Abigail facepalmed. "I barely felt that."
Taeko had no words, but plenty of action. As Pam swung with her bottle to slash at him, Taeko yelled out, "[Jarret!]", and blocked the strike with a hard kick that was aimed at the shin. Jumping off Pam, Taeko readied the finishing blow. Sebastian had rushed out of the house when Abigail texted him that a fight was going on, and Maru had inadvertently saw it and tagged along.
"[Veau Shot!]" Taeko said sweeping his leg forward to land a powerful kick to the center of Pam's torso as Pam just got one slash on Taeko's leg.
Pam seemed to take no damage as Taeko fell to the ground in pain from the gash on his leg. Pam planted her foot on Taeko's chest about to stab him with the broken bottle.
"I'd like to increase my wager to 5,000!" Abigail said confidently.
"Why didn't it do anything?" Shane said worriedly.
"What? Veau Shot?! Of course, the attack didn't do anything at first…it's strangely a delayed reaction technique. Which taking in Pam's size…she should feel it right about now." Maru said as Pam's body shook as she dropped the bottle.
She let a scream before an imprint of Taeko's shoeprint slammed into Pam's body before she was sent spiraling across the river and into the fenced group of trees slamming into one before her unconscious bounced off and fall into the river splashing up a few [Catfish] onto land. Harvey was gaping like those fish being a man of logic. What he saw was something so insanely illogical yet possible at the same time was too much to handle. Taeko got to his feet staggering before limping up to drag Pam's body out of the water. He pocketed the catfish for later before flinging Pam's body into the chair right outside the trailer. Abigail immediately swapped her Shiva magicite for the Kirin one knowing she was going to need to heal them.
"That…was for Penny." Taeko said panting as Sebastian ran in to help him up.
[BGM Ends]
"Looks like I won. Pay up, Gus!" Shane said with a confident grin as Gus was blue in the face.
Cosette glared at her husband as he had to hand over 1,200 gold to a happy and giddy Shane and 1,000 to Willy. She was livid that he owed Abigail 10,000 gold. Of course, Cosette was able to talk her down to her family to get free meals at the Saloon for a year, but Cosette was displeased for offering that. The people of valley had paid off to those who betted on Taeko, namely Willy, Shane, and Leah.
"Taeko, what the heck happened?" Lewis said worriedly.
"Honestly, I was just helping Penny with something a bit personal, and Pam interrupted. I tried to defuse the situation between her and Penny by getting in-between them, but she hit me with the bottle…and the rest is pretty obvious." Taeko said looking at his dwindling health. "And no, I won't be pressing charges. Frankly, I've endured much worse in Souamil and I pretty much stomped her anyway. But if she tries to press charges, tell her I'll do the same."
"Well, I better get Pam to the clinic first. With what I just saw, I think you definitely broke bones and give her a concussion." Harvey said as Elliot and Leah had to carry her to the clinic.
Penny came to and ran out ask what happened only to scream to see the injured Taeko. Her worry overrode the scent of his blood.
"Taeko, did my mother do that to you?" Penny asked.
"Yeah…that and the fact that I exerted myself to beat the shit out of your mother. By the way, it was really nice if I get some healing!" Taeko said, looking to Abigail.
"And I was so close to working on my new gadget that could have helped." Maru said worriedly.
"Step aside, Maru. I got this." Abigail said. "But we'll need to get him home first."
While the town was mostly concerned with Pam and Penny, Sebastian was able to get Taeko away to his home with Abigail and Maru in tow after Taeko took up his dropped weapons. Taeko opened the door as Sebastian sat him on the couch as Tom leapt into his lap.
"All right. Stand back." Abigail said focusing her powers.
Three red balls glowed around her before dispersing and a visage of Kirin appeared above them. Maru was a woman of science, but science failed to explain what she was watching. Abigail's eyes snapped open.
"Life Guard!" Abigail said, as everyone's bodies in the room were briefly covered with green sparkles.
Kirin and those sparkles vanished, but Taeko and Sebastian felt the effects right away as they were no longer baked.
"What the hell was that?" Maru asked.
"An Esper I called to aid. Thankfully, Kirin used Regen to heal us all. It'll be a slow crawl 'till you're back at full strength." Abigail said before pecking Taeko's head. "Try not to exert yourself."
Abigail left as Taeko pulled his status.
[Current Health: 400/870 | Regen+|]
"So, Abigail can perform magic?" Sebastian asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Long story, but she has powers." Taeko remarked stoking Tom's ear. "I discovered that she has powers while training her."
"Taeko, that's insane. However, there's something I need to ask in private." Sebastian remarked.
"Bedroom." Taeko said as the two walked into his room closing the door leaving the stunned Maru wanting to still process what happened.
"So, what's this about?" Taeko asked.
"Well, I can't exactly stay at home often due to Dickhead stop dropping hints that I need to go out and get some sun. I can't stand his constant hints, but I know he can't stand you even more. So, I wanted to ask if you could teach me some fighting skills." Sebastian asked.
"You want to get back at your dad by hanging around me more often? Well, it'll be like old times, only this time for reals. Any particular style you have in mind?" Taeko asked seriously. "It all depends your body, will, and health on whether you can pull it off?"
"Well, I don't want to damage my hands. Maybe you teach some of those moves you bodied Pam with?" Sebastian said with a smirk.
"That can be done, but you won't be pulling off moves like that easily. Sanji's Black Leg Style is a hybrid art of capoiera, savate, and taekwondo. I would have to run you through the basics of all three to get you capable. Which won't be too hard. I can even throw in some ninjutsu." Taeko explained. "We can start tomorrow morning if you like along with Abigail."
"Thanks." Sebastian said as they high-fived. "Maybe I might be good enough to tackle the mines. I've been interested in what goes on in there."
Taeko jokingly rolled his eyes as they left his room. Sebastian bid goodbye before leaving, and a text box flashed up.
[Getting high with Seb has strengthened your bond! Friendship increased! You've taken Sebastian as a student! Friendship now at four hearts and will gradually increase easier with every lesson. Four Heart cutscene unlocked!]
However, there was more.
[Due to your fight your Pam, your reputation in town has become mixed. Shane, Abigail, and Willy wagered on you and won. Abigail's relationship hasn't changed yet, as you have not triggered her four heart cutscene. Shane's friendship increases massively by 245 as you inadvertently did him a huge favor. Willy goes up to two hearts. Penny's friendship doesn't change…yet, but she feels indebted to you. (New photo to come to your Huniebee, tomorrow.) Pam's friendship drops to one heart. Gus's friendship would decrease, but Cosette's support of you kicking the stuffing out of Pam evens out so no change. Be careful next time in openly brawling with villagers in the open, as Lewis is wary of you.]
"Feh…not like I aimed to be everybody's friend, but that yet makes me wonder." Taeko said noticing Maru was still frozen.
Taeko flicked her nose, and she snapped out of her catatonia.
"Sorry about that. I was trying to process what I just saw. Magic can't exist." Maru remarked.
"To be fair, magic's just science we don't understand that." Takeo joked as Maru pouted.
"At least, your head wound is healing and won't leave a scar. Jeez, Taeko. I can't have a friend be unable to work." Maru remarked. "Still though, I noticed that gun you picked up. Real deal?"
"Real deal? Yes, and the thing is a replica of the FusionFall weapons. Even the clothes I wear are replicas I found in the Mines." Taeko explained. "Something huge is going down, and it's a secret I keep between myself, Abs, Seb, Linus, and now you."
"Go on." Maru said excitedly.
Taeko explained what had happened leaving Maru intrigued and terrified at the same time. Taeko had left out parts concerning Linus's past.
"Taeko, you've given me a bit of a drive for a new project. If these fusion zones are as you say, I want a sample to study." Maru said seriously.
"Sadly, the flash drive with some information I had left in Linus's hands. And no, don't go after him to get it. I'll see if I have any residual files on my Joja accounts." Taeko remarked.
"Thanks a bunch, Taeko." Maru said making her leave.
"I need to get down those mines." Maru thought. "Maybe I could make some armor for me to go down there."
As Maru left, Linus made his appearance and knocked on the door leaving Taeko to answer.
"Myth and I heard what happened, and I'm glad to know you're all right." Linus said grateful.
"Yeah…thanks for the concern." Taeko said with a yawn.
"By the way, I got something for you. It's a recipe on how to make an advanced bait to make attracting fish easier. My own specialty." Linus said, handing Taeko the paper with the instructions and some "Wild Bait". "And some to start off with."
"Thanks, Linus. I'll be turning in early. It's been a long day." Taeko said with a yawn.
"Rest early." Linus said before leaving.
Taeko closed the door as the paper went up blue flames.
[You can now craft, "Wild Bait".]
Taeko yawned as he got a few things to dump in the selling bin. An [Ancient Fruit], two silver quality [Parsnips], all four of the [Topazes], and two [Rubies]. After that, he rushed inside to plop down on his bed and changed into sleepwear.
"What do you mean I can't press charges?!" Pam roared.
The drunkard was being treated by Harvey to which Abigail came in spamming Cure until she was slightly better. Abigail did not want to heal her completely out of petty revenge for an earlier incident. Plus, she wanted Harvey to have some work to do so Pam would have a medical bill to pay.
"Pam, I'm going to level with you. It looks bad on your end. I have witnesses who saw Taeko had a jagged piece of a beer bottle on his head. Plus, Penny told me what happened before she passed out. You struck first. If you go to court, you. Won't. Win." Lewis said seriously and deep in his tone. "Plus, I'm starting to wonder if you were drinking on the day, you drove Taeko into town."
"Well thanks to Abigail, somehow most of your broken ribs and collarbones have healed. However, you're still bruised up and you have that concussion. Your intoxicated state was the only reason you're not feeling the pain right now." Harvey said only for Pam to start screaming in pain, "But it seems you're no longer…drunk. Honestly, I need a freaking drink after I've seen."
"Pam, I'm only to say this once. If you want to keep your job and your unemployment checks, I suggest you apologize." Lewis said sternly.
"But he…." Pam whined before for Lewis to raise a hand.
"Don't. Just do it, and don't waste your time whining. Taeko's not completely blameless in this, but I'm more upset with you seeing that you're older and should be an example." Lewis said getting up. "So, I suggest you figure something out. So, until I hear from Taeko that you've apologized, no checks for you."
He left as Pam's face soured. She wondered where Penny was. Her daughter was in the trailer in a state of euphoria after ensuring Taeko was alright. Penny had gotten bits of his blood on her face to which she tasted. Her vamp senses were on cloud nine. She looked in the mirror to see her fangs emerge and her face flushing pink.
"Taeko…." Penny thought, looking to her phone. "I should "thank" him."
Her vamp side had begun to influence Penny's mind. In a way, giving in to her dhampir nature made her feel powerful and confident. Years of being demure due to Pam's behavior were bubbling up, but it was not yet overflowing making this temporary for the moment. Still, a few moments were all she needed.
[STATS]
Taeko Kiba Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer/Freelancer Ronin
Age: 20 years
HP: 870/870
Energy: 700/700
Overall Level: Smallholder
Farming Skill Level: 2
Mining Skill Level: 4
Foraging Skill Level: 4
Fishing Skill Level: 4
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 abilites)
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%)
Alpha Blacklight Shirt – Body (Equip Item) – Stand apart from any crowd in this dark zip-front shirt with its own blue illumination. (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense)(Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)
Alpha Blacklight Pants – Legs (Equip Item) - Stand apart from any crowd in these pants with its own blue illumination. (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense)(Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)
Alpha Blacklight Shoes – Feet (Equip Item) – Shoes emblazed with illumination. Kick spawns in style. (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense, +2 Speed)(Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)
Rabbit's Foot – Some say it's lucky, and it sells highly. (Equipping this item lowers your chances of getting unlucky streaks.)
Infrared Goggles– Glasses (Equip Item) – Night vision is yours! Get the edge over your foes by sneaking up on them in the dark. (FusionFall collectible) [Allows for night-vision in darkness] Once equipped, they can be summoned on and off at will.
[Relationships]
Sandy – 4.40/10 Hearts – 1100 Friendship Points
Pam – 1/10 Hearts – 250 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 – 3.9/10 Hearts – 980 Friendship Points
Linus – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 Friendship Points
Gus (and Cosette) – 3/10 Hearts – 750 Friendship Points
Sebastian – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 Friendship Points
Haley – 1/10 Hearts – 250 Friendship Points
Emily – 1/10 – 250 Friendship Points
Penny – 5/10 – 1250 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 – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points
Leah – 10/10 Hearts – 2500 Friendship Points
Marnie – 3.9/10 Hearts – 980 Friendship Points
Elliot – 0.4/10 Hearts – 100 Friendship Points
Shane – 3/10 Hearts – 750 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: 5/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 4) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 5) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 10) Rhubarb (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 10/12)
Row 11) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 12) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
[Column 2]
Row 1) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 4) Rhubarb (Days in the Soil: 10/13)
Row 9) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 11/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 11) Beans (Basic Fertiziler) (Days in the Soil: 9/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
[Column 3]
Row 1) Beans (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 9/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 2) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 3) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 8/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 4) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 5) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 9/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
[Column 4]
Row 1) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 6/6)
Row 2) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 4) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 5) Spring Seeds (Days in the Soil: 5/6)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 29/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 29/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 29/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 9) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 29/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
[Flower Box]
Slot 1) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 7/7)
Slot 2) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 7/7)
Slot 3) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 7/7)
Slot 4) Blue Jazz (Days in the Soil: 7/7)
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) (2/4)-
(Day 9 Total Profits: 1456)
(Shadow Farm's Total Profits (This adds all the money made by the end of each day): 37,130 Gold)
[Status of the Pets]
Logan Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer's Dog/Battle Pet
Class: Fighter (Warrior)
Level: 12
EXP: 28/110
Age: 1 Year (in Dog Years)
HP: 310/310
MP: 460/460
[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)
Dive - The aquatic version of digging, and thus can only be used in areas of water. (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 costs 25 MP)
Roar - The user releases a savage roar that can be to send foes fleeing in fear.
Nitro Charge - The user cloaks itself in fire and charges at the opponent. (Power: 50) (Increases Dexterity whenever used by +2) (This move costs 30 MP)
[Stats]
Strength: 19
Defense: 18
Dexterity: 14
Intelligence: 14
Charisma: 14
Wisdom: 14
[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: 10
EXP: 15/120
Age: 1 Cat Year (15 Human Years)
HP: 324/324
MP: 359/359
[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 costs 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.)
Boiling Water Gun - The user shoots boiling hot water at its target. This may also leave the target with a burn. (Power: 80) (This attack costs 30 MP)
[Stats]
Strength: 15
Defense: 14
Dexterity: 15
Intelligence: 14
Charisma: 14
Wisdom: 14
[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: The mine related chapter tends to take a lot out of me in the effort department. Yes, I've introduced a new element to the game to celebrate FusionFall Legacy's development. I enjoyed FF, but I wound up joining under its Academy version. The FL Development released FF Retro and I got to play the original version of FF. It's been fun so far. With these chapters comes heavy development for the cast, and a drop in relationship with Pam. However, what of Penny? Well, that's a surprise. For now, the chapters will be smaller seeing that Taeko isn't going to be able to go into the mines until he gets his pickaxe back. However, how will Pam apologize and how will Taeko handle it?)
(Remastered A/N: Considering COVID-19 and rise of racism against Asians, the fight with Pam was a bit bitter to look back on. And it's not like Pam refers to any slurs to him again after this anyway, though…one could say she's probably doing that to save face.)