The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 20 –Party and Panic in the Mines
Sunday, the 14th of Spring, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
|Considering the rating of this fic, a lemon warning is redundant. |
[LOAD GAME]
…
[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]
Demetrius screeched and fell on his butt at what sat on his desk. A closer look had him realized it was a wolf plushie. He had a sneaking idea who bought it.
"TAEKO!" He screamed as birds flew away from the house.
Sebastian walked toward Shadow Farm with a grin knowing that buying the plush was totally worth it. Taeko was already up and at them when Sebastian arrived. Taeko took out the spoils of his new wine and juices, putting most of them in the fridge except for the Ancient Fruit wine and the leek juice for Penny.
"Sebastian. You're early. Abigail's just about to arrive. Let's get to work." Taeko said cracking his knuckles. "But let me just check my farm real quick."
He hurriedly watered his crops where the sprinklers did not reach and got the grown crops out. A green bean and four ancient fruits to which he put two of them into kegs. The rest went to the fridge as Taeko and Sebastian began training as Abigail arrived in her workout clothes (the ones with yoga pants). Taeko lost focus and got decked by Seb for faltering.
"Shit." Taeko hissed rubbing his jaw as Sebastian turned to see Abigail.
"Dressing up nice for sensei." Sebastian snarked as Abigail punched his shoulder.
"Just for that, you two can spar while I cool off inside." Taeko said taking up his phone. "I need to check my phone."
He walked inside rubbing his jaw proud of Seb's skill before sitting on the couch to check his phone. He had two messages, each one from the Umbra sisters. He went to Haley's first.
[Text Message from Haley]
[I just wanted to offer you a proposition. Your sister and you have ties to the fashion industry, and I really want in on it. Maybe considering sliding some clothes by way, for a body like me it's worth it. And I'm sure I could make it worth your while. You're not so bad, yourself.]
A picture was attached of Haley blowing a kiss and Taeko was a little bit peeved. If this was her deviancy path, he really wanted to stop her dead in her tracks, even if she was rather hot. He sighed and moved to Emily's text.
[Text Message from Emily]
[I'm so glad you came to town as you really livened things up. Thanks again for agreeing to help with my project. I'll be able to now mend your clothes if they are damaged. Though, have you heard of the Secret Woods? It's been cut off due to overgrowth, but it's said to be the most serene place in the valley. If we can ever access there, I'd love to take you there.]
A photo was attached, and it was of Emily sitting the roof of her house letting the wind blow through her hair. A quest alert came up.
[Emily Story Quest: Welcome to the Woods]
You've cleared the way to the Secret Woods! Invite Emily to the woods!
Quest Objective: Take Emily to the Secret Woods
Defend her from any mobs within
Bonus Objective: Take her at night.
Quest Reward: 1 Friendship Heart with Emily, 500 Gold
Bonus Objective Reward: ½ Friendship Heart with Haley
Accept? Y/N
Taeko accepted the quest planning for dealing with it on Monday. He put his phone back in his pocket and walked back out to see that Maru had shown up in different clothes. She had on a pair of golden frame googles, a long-sleeved dark purple shirt under an orange tunic, black compression shorts, a dark red scarf around her neck, and a pair of dark brown boots on her feet. At her belt line, she wears a small brown bag, and hanging from her shoulder she wears a large blue bag.
"Cosplaying?" Sebastian asked.
"Not exactly. It's a bit of armor for me to go down the Mines." Maru remarked confidently. "I wanted to ask Taeko to take me down there."
"You know "dad" is going to kill you for going down there." Sebastian snarked.
"Why do you think I'm not telling him? He's blaming Taeko for a wolf plush that appeared on his desk!" Maru mused as Taeko chuckled. "You didn't do that, did you?"
"What, no? I've been on farm sparring with these two." Taeko said annoyed. "But if you want me to take you down the Mines, fine. But you're not going unarmed."
Maru produced a pair of [Bracer Blasters] much to everyone's surprise as they were perfect replicas and hidden under her sleeves.
"I've been taking a few things from the Joja dump. Nothing they won't miss." Maru said confidently. "And built these bad boys. Cost a lot for batteries. I also got my trusty wrench if any get close."
"Oh, you raid their bins too?" Abigail said as Maru raised an eyebrow. "Taeko does it too."
"We all raid the bins. Besides, it's better than actually paying for JojaMart's stuff." Sebastian said as they all laughed.
"But seriously, if you're heading to the Mines. I'm coming as well. You need back up." Abigail said cracking her knuckles.
"I'll come as well." Sebastian said with a sigh.
He knew if he didn't, Demetrius would have his head. Plus, an actual opponent did sate his curiosity.
[Warning! Seeing as you have a full party of four, you can't take your pets with you.]
Taeko inwardly hissed but readied himself.
"Seeing we're all going; I'll have to leave Logan and Tom at home. They need to watch the place." Taeko said covering for his pets. "And as for you, Seb. I got something for you."
Taeko went in putting all the [Wood], [Hardwood], [Emeralds], [Amethysts], [Stone], and all unneeded stuff out in his personal inventory in storage or in the fridge. Used the six [Woodskips] to make six sets of [Sashimi] to take with him. He got out the last two [Field Snacks], and ten [Cookies] out of the fridge. Even when to make two [Fish 'n' Blitz Chips] and an [Onion Bread] to make sure he had healing items. He got out the Pillow Jacket out of his closet and went outside tossing it into Sebastian's hands.
"Put it on. Its special made of adventuring. I need you have to some defense on you." Taeko remarked. "And I'll buy you a weapon if I have to."
"I need to get Espada and change." Abigail said. "I'll meet you all by the Mines."
"I'll go with you. I need to pass the clinic and grab a few [Energy Tonics] and [Muscle Remedy]." Maru said walking off with Abigail.
Sebastian and Taeko took the Backwoods route quietly walking about as a text box alerted Taeko of a level up.
[Your farming skill has leveled up to 3! Building recipes for Bee Houses and Speed-Gro are unlocked. You can now cook Farmer's Lunch!]
"Wait, couldn't I cook that already?" Taeko thought. "Never mind that."
"So, Sebastian? How's things going?" Taeko said trying to make small talk.
"Well other than my family, decent. Joined a Discord group…making good friends and all." Sebstian said with a mirthful sigh. "You think RWBY's going to get any better?"
Before Taeko answered, the Game let him know something. No, RWBY was not going to get better much to Taeko's continuing disappointment.
"No…no…I don't think it is." Taeko said with a sigh. "I should have invested in My Hero Academia."
"Same." Seb said as Taeko took up a Leek.
As they walked, Linus was cooking his breakfast over his fire and Taeko tossed him that leek he took up.
"Don't forget your veggies, Linus." Taeko said kindly.
Linus laughed at this as Seb and Taeko were in front of the Mines. Before they went in, Taeko bought him a [Wooden Blade] and an [Iron Dirk] from Marlon. Not long after, the girls showed up and they all entered going into the elevator.
[Floor 15]
[Mine Brown Earth Jungle Theme: Kirby Super Star Ultra – Underground Forest Area]
He had not looked around the floor last time having just went to the elevator straight away. Now, he could. The floor appeared normal but had a bunch of weeds. Of course, the Cave Bugs flittered about, Duggies poked their heads out of the dirt, and the Slimes were looking to put the hurt out.
"Scatter." Taeko said unsheathing Eclipse.
Taeko dashed forward slashing through several cave bugs before stomping on a Duggy's neck breaking it. Maru leapt back firing several shots nicking off five Duggies, as Abigail took out her anger on several slime. Ever since that King Slime incident, she's grown to really dislike Slimes. Sebastian got two Slimes before throwing his dirk nailing a Bug to the wall killing it. Taeko had made sure to collect what was dropped.
"Ten pieces of [Bug Meat], two [Yams], two [Cherry Bombs], two chunks of [Amethysts], and 5 pieces of [Sap]." Taeko said counting it off before noticing that in the remains of the fallen were pieces of gold. "And money…"
"It's about 200 Gold." Maru said picking it all up.
"Maru holds the money, and I'll hold everything else." Taeko said storing everything else in the [Inventory]. "We'll split it all up when we leave, but I'm using the bombs."
Before they asked, he threw them into clusters of rocks having them blow up as Taeko ran up to collect stone and any jewels.
"I found a pair of topaz and rubies. Can someone hold the gems we find?" Taeko remarked.
"I'll do it." Sebastian said as he took them and the amethysts Taeko had into a backpack. "And look over there, there's our ladder."
They all went down it onto the next floor.
[Floor 16]
The floor was small and in the center was a worn mat with five barrels on it. However, there stood a slime that unlike the others had a feminine humanoid shape much to Abigail's horror and Sebastian's semi-interest. Taeko used [Observe].
[Bonus Mini-Boss – Mima Slime – These slimes are the result of slimes eating one too many tampoons and lady products. The blood in them mutated a few causing them to take shape, and they are a bit more solid. They feed on human skin, drool, and other fluids. They're a bit of your cliché perverted monster. Stats: HP (1010) / Damage (30-200) / Speed (10) / EXP Given (?) / Drops: (?)]
Three more emerged from the barrels as Taeko hastily explained what they were. The Mima Slimes all had slightly different shapes.
"Play with us" One of them said.
"No, no, and hell no!" Abigail said, readying to fight.
"Careful. Don't let it touch you and keep it back at a distance!" Taeko warned. "We'll have to split them up and take one each."
The speedy slimes went for a tackle as the four separated. Sebastian got the Mima Slime that looked a bit like a tween.
"Yeah, stay back." Sebastian said before kicking it into a barrel. "You're a bit too young."
The Mima threw it at him, but he sliced it in two before firing a small energy blast right at the core landing a critical that exploded. Maru had gotten to deal with a Mima that looked motherly and she kept firing at her. The Mima had dodged the last two before leaping at Maru tackling her into the ground.
"Get off of me, sludge!" Maru said punching it in the jaw causing it to recoil.
"Discipline daughter. Need spankings."
Tendrils came out of the Mima trying to restrain Maru getting her right leg pulling Maru towards her. Maru gritted her teeth and prepared a charge shot. It'd cost her the batteries she had in her blasters, but she didn't want slime in her pants. Taking aim, she blasted the Mima splattering slime and blood on the wall. Abigail was merciless on the Mima she faced ignoring the blows the Mima gave. She made sure it was nothing more than a smear. As for Taeko, a barrage of Blade Beams put the Mima he faced down quickly, and they all took note of what was left behind.
"Strange, the stuff they left behind have no slime on them." Maru said confused.
"We just fought slimes that tried to feel us up and you're questioning this." Sebastian said dryly rolling his eyes as Taeko used [Observe] on the four items left by the Mimas.
[Clockwork Rewound Coat – Body (Equip Item) – Go back in time in style with this future-steampunk coat. [+1 Defense] (FusionFall collectible)]
[Ice Boots – Feet (Equip Item) – Ever head of ice skating? These are unrelated. [+ Adds Ice Tangent to Attacks/Boost Ice Attacks] [+1 Defense, +1 Speed] (FusionFall collectible)]
[Weapon – Master Spiral Spreader – Shattergun - The giant Doom Strider called Don Doom provided this alien shattergun. Long-range/Damage Output: (23-33) (FusionFall Collectible)]
[Gwen 10,000 Hood – Hat (Equip Item) – Don the disguise of the futuristic Gwen 10,000. Magic powers not included. (Female Only) [+1 Defense] (FusionFall collectible)]
"Dibs on the boots!" Abigail said kicking off old boots and putting on the new shoes. "They feel air conditioned on my toes!"
"Sebastian, you can take the coat and hand Maru the jacket." Taeko suggested, having Seb tossed Maru the jacket.
Sebastian proudly put on his new gear and also took up the shattergun citing he'd need a firearm. Maru donned the hood over her face leaving Taeko to check the barrels. He smashed open the barrels finding a [Geode], teen pieces of [Wood], five pieces of [Copper Ore], five [Stone], a piece of [Coal]. Of course, the Mima slimes left money giving the total to 1000 Gold.
[Floor 17]
Full of rocks, ore, and weeds as the team climbed down onto this floor. Taeko saw only a few [Rock Crabs] scurry about.
"Abigail, show our two friends the ropes to those Crabs. I'll clear up the rocks." Taeko said sheathing his blade to get out his Pickaxe.
"Right, sensei." Abigail said as she went off with Maru and Sebastian.
Taeko smashed rocks with the axe before he got a text box saying he leveled up his mining.
[Your Mining is at Level 5, please choose your new perk!]
[Miner - +1 ore per vein] or [Geologist - Chance for gems to appear in pairs. (50% chance per Node. Also applies to geodes spawned from breaking rocks.)]
Taeko settled on the Geologist perk and even got an increase in proficiency. He smashed through nodes and rocks already loving his [Geologist] perk. A nice haul of stone, copper ore, and geodes. He put away the pickaxe before walking up to his group.
"My family is having crab for dinner." Sebastian said holding up a few Crabs.
"Incredible that one was hiding a Cherry Bomb." Maru said as Takeo got out some Cookies. "I'll take some."
The group munched on a few cookies before going down the ladder.
[Floor 18]
An infestation of Grubs and Cave Flies were all over the place and Taeko's ki glowed over his body.
"This is going to cost all of my energy, but it'll be so worth it." Taeko said with a manic grin. "Maru, use this."
Taeko tossed her the Magnetic Field Generator Mk.1.
"Raise the shield and get behind me!" Taeko said as his body sparked with ki.
"Oh shit." Abigail said as Maru fumbled with the device.
Taeko raises his right hand with his index and middle fingers up as his fingers glowed bringing his right arm to his left side.
"[Blazing…STORM!]" Taeko said swinging his arm back to the right unleashing a medium-sized green exploding wave.
The explosion wiped out all the grubs and flies leaving the walls and floors scorched with black and stained with blood. The shield held up as Maru deactivated and Taeko checked his energy amount.
[Energy: 150/769]
"Damn." Taeko thought. "Nearly drained myself."
"Hot damn, you wiped out everything!" Maru said as Taeko reclaimed the shield producer.
Bug Meat littered the ground along with several stones, rice shoots, and ancient seeds to which Taeko collected. Abigail collected a few things before they all went down the ladder in silence.
[Floor 19]
[BGM Change: Metroid Fusion OST – Tension Before a Confrontation]
What they found was a spiral pattern, the group made their move to walk through it all feeling tense. Taeko and Abigail especially, both sensing something off. They were being watched.
[Danger! Get back!]
Taeko leapt back as a blast of electricity smashed into the wall where Taeko was. Maru screamed and went pale.
"What the fuck is that thing?!" Maru said staggered.
Taeko watched it, a beast on two legs with a horn and spikes on his shoulders. He knew exactly what it was, but he had sent it only in games!
[Bonus Boss – Ceritops – These beasties are among the mana mammals. Animals capable of magical ability though a bit of a feral version of it. Ceritops are big, dumb, and brutish with a penchant for electricity. [Immune to Electricity Attacks] Stats: HP (2000) / Damage (?) / Speed (?) / EXP Given (?) / Drops: (?)]
"I need to play Final Fantasy some more." Sebastian said fearfully.
[Boss Battle BGM: Final Fantasy VI OST – The Decisive Battle]
"Abigail, try and stall it! Maru, I need something to restore my energy!" Taeko said cracking his knuckles. "Sebastian, get behind me."
Before they could move, the Ceritops smacked both Taeko and Sebastian into the wall before roaring.
[Current Health: 795/870]
"Shit." Taeko hissed.
"Totally glad I put on the armor. I have a feeling that would have hurt more if I didn't put it on." Sebastian said, getting to his feet.
"Blizarra!" Abigail said as her hands glowed, firing a magical blast of ice on the creature's legs.
The Ceritops hissed in pain as Maru was paralyzed with a bit of fear as it had broken free lumbering for Abigail. Maru snapped out of her fear and took aim before opening fire with rapid fire shots.
[Ceritops' Health/MP: 1,850/95]
Crafting a [Cherry Bomb], Taeko hurled it at the Ceritops screaming for Abigail and Maru to get back. Seeing it, the girls leapt back, each firing an attack that got it to ignite in the beast's face blinding it. Taeko knew they only had a few seconds, a minute at most. Abigail and Maru rushed back to him.
"You need some healing. Rengen!" Abigail said casting Rengen causing Taeko to get a new status.
[Rengen – Buff – You will slowly heal over time for a few minutes. (2:00)]
Taeko wolfed down the [Field Snacks] before asking Maru for medicine to heal up. Maru hastily got him and Sebastian both to get back up to full strength.
"Look out!" Sebastian said getting in front of Maru, using the [Wooden Sword] to block a Thundaga blast.
Being that the blade was made of wooden, it saved their skins, but all that was left of it was a burning hunk of wood.
"Fuck!" Sebastian hissed. "That sword was a gift!"
The beast charged at them as a recharged Taeko came down on the beast's shoulder with an [Épaule Shoot] before screaming, "[Nez!]", and kicking it right in its nose bouncing off it.
"Sebastian, Abigail. It's time for a bit of Kamehame Fever!" Taeko said powering up. "Maru, ready for your blasters and give us one big blast!"
Maru didn't have to be told twice and changed her blasters' batteries as Taeko, Sebastian, and Abigail got into position.
"Ka…me…ha…me….HA!" The three screamed firing their energy beams into one big one clashing against the beast who using Gigavolt to push back.
As they struggled, Maru loaded the last battery and was ready. Quietly sneaking around, she noticed a pair of torches and had an idea. One that her father would call insane, but considering that monster, she thought it was a damn good one. With duct tape from her bag, she taped the torches on top of her blasters and took aim right as the three were struggling the beast.
"Hey ugly! Let me light up this cave!" Maru said, firing the blast.
Maru had turned her laser blast into a massive fireball that crashed into the creature before causing a rather loud explosion sending everyone hurdling into the dirt. Everyone got up hurt but breathing.
"Holy shit, Maru, that was awesome!" Taeko exclaimed before noticing that the creature's body was still there. "And we got a trophy."
Taeko found a big bag of gold which amounted to 5,000 and a [Silver Hairpin] which reduced the cost of magic by 12.5%. He tossed that one to Abigail before discovering a glittering katana that sparked electricity.
[Weapon – Raikiri – Katana - A famous katana said to have cut down a lightning strike. It is featured in legends from the land of Wa, which vanished centuries ago. The charge that remains within its blade adds a lightning effect to its attack (Final Fantasy Collectible)]
"Mine." Taeko said taking it up. "I'm taking it."
Now Taeko had a second sword that he was sure wouldn't break, and he and Abigail hauled the corpse along. It would make a neat trophy, and both were thinking of Myth to study it. They found the ladder, but also a cache of treasures seemingly guarded by the beast they'd slain.
"Let's see what got here! 4 [Omni-Geodes], 2 [Dinosaur Eggs], 10 [Rubies], and half-eaten duggies." Taeko said looking it over. "Well, I'm taking the Geodes and the eggs. I think if I can shove one in my incubator, I'll get me a dino."
"You can't be serious." Maru said as Taeko nodded that he was.
Abigail collected the rubies and they all went down the ladder to the next floor.
[Floor 20]
What they found was a massive underground lake on this floor which they would have enjoyed if not for the dinging of the elevator being the sweet sound of relief. Taeko found a treasure chest and kicked it open to see a [Steel Smallsword]. He rightfully gave it to Sebastian as thanks.
"As much as I want to fish in that lake, let's get out of the mines now. I'm pretty drained and I could use some lunch." Taeko remarked.
"Fine then, let's split up the loot then." Sebastian said. "Ok, we got two Amethysts, two Topazes, and twelve Rubies."
"Ok, we got 6,000 gold. So, we split it up as 2,000 each." Maru said dividing up the gold.
"Actually, Seb owes me 500 for the dagger. I'll let the wooden sword go." Taeko remarked.
"How about you just take my share of the rubies. I'd rather keep the gold." Sebastian said, taking his share of the gold.
Ultimately, Taeko found himself 2,000 Gold richer and six rubies in his bag. With the loot divided, Abigail perked up that she should heal them now.
"I just want to see the look on the town's face when we walk into town with this corpse without a scratch on us." Abigail said cheekily activating her active Magicite. "Holy Aura!"
Abigail glowed and above them Kirin appeared before they all glowed green before a flash of light. All four were completely healed, but their clothes were still roughed up. Abigail and Taeko hauled that corpse into the elevator and the four went back up to the first floor.
[Music Ends]
-o-
"Demetrius, you shouldn't be worried. Not only is Sebastian with her, but so is Abigail." Caroline said, crossing her arms.
Caroline, Robin, Marlon, Harvey, and Lewis were in the town square all annoyed with Demetrius raising a bit of a stink over this. Before he could protest, Abigail called them out. They all turned, and their eyes bugged out of their skulls as the four dragged the roasted corpse into town. The four didn't look hurt, but their clothes were roughed up. Abigail proudly stood with a smirk as her armor glittered in the sun.
"See, they're fine." Robin said kindly. "But what the hell is that thing? And Sebastian, what are you wearing?"
"A Ceritops. It was in the Mines and in the way. So, we kicked its ass." Sebastian said confidently. "And this thing I have on? Armor that I found."
"Oh, and here's your jacket back, Taeko." Maru said, handing it over to him.
"Thanks." Taeko said wrapping it around her waist. "Marlon, think you could call Myth? I think he'd want to study this thing because it was using magic."
"Of course, I'll call him up. And I'll make sure you and Abigail get a reward for this beast's head." Marlon said. "You four rest up."
The party had split up bidding their goodbyes.
"The weaponry was a complete success." Maru said excitedly. "Still, I need a better power source than D batteries."
"Honestly, it was all pretty badass." Sebastian said with a sigh. "Thanks, Maru. You had my back there."
"Well, I'm glad you two are getting along much better." Robin said innocently.
"Wish you hadn't dragged your sister down there with that ruffian." Demetrius said icily as Sebastian glared back.
"Dad, I actually asked Taeko to take me to the Mines." Maru said sticking up for her half-brother. "Seb wanted to come to ensure I wasn't hurt. He didn't have to come, but he did. And are you really going to dig at Taeko when he led me through the mines smoothly?"
"He's the one who put the wolf plush on my desk!" Demetrius snapped.
"Actually, that was me. Mom wanted to get a plush for your desk and told me to pick one. So, I picked." Sebastian said feigning innocence.
At the Belmont household, Abigail proudly put her spoils on the desk as Caroline rolled her eyes at how silly she was being. She was proud of her daughter, though, and happy she was enjoying what she was doing. As for Taeko, he went home. He gave both of his pets some sashimi before offloading most of his spoils into the fridge or storage except for his weapons, seeds, geodes, rubies, dinosaur eggs, bug meat, and leek juice.
He went to the henhouse to collect the eggs before putting the dino egg in the incubator. Up to the selling bin, he threw all the bug meat, the eggs he got from henhouse, and four of the rubies. With the seeds he got, he planted them all in the second column with the ancient seeds covered in Speed-Gro.
"Ok, now to get to Clint. Then, lunch." Taeko said running off into town with the pets following along.
He rushed into the blacksmith's only to walk into Clint making out with the Real Doll.
"Seriously?!" Taeko said annoyed.
"I was going to go on break. I must have forgotten the door." Clint said awkwardly shoving it into his room. "What can I do for you…at half price?"
"I got 14 Geodes." Taeko said dryly putting them all on the table. "Just break them open."
Clint went to work and Taeko got the spoils. The results of the regular Geodes were all pleasing for him.
[Item – Minerals – Alamite - Its distinctive fluorescence makes it a favorite among rock collectors.– Sell Price: 150g]
[Item – Minerals – Calcite - This yellow crystal is speckled with shimmering nodules. – Sell Price: 75g]
[Item – Minerals – Celestine - Some early life forms had bones made from this.– Sell Price: 125g]
[Item – Minerals – Jamborite - The crystals are so tightly packed it almost looks fuzzy.– Sell Price: 150g]
[Item – Minerals – Mudstone - A fine-grained rock made from ancient clay or mud.– Sell Price: 25g]
[Item – Minerals – Nekoite - The delicate shards form a tiny pink meadow.– Sell Price: 80g]
[Item – Minerals – Orpiment - Despite its high toxicity, this Mineral is widely used in manufacturing and folk medicine.– Sell Price: 80g]
[Item – Minerals – Petrified Slime - This little guy may be 100,000 years old.– Sell Price: 120g]
[Item – Minerals – Sandstone - Its distinctive fluorescence makes it a favorite among rock collectors.– Sell Price: 120g]
[Item – Minerals – Slate - It's extremely resistant to water, making it a good roofing material.– Sell Price: 85g]
"All going to Gunther." Taeko thought pocketing them before getting what was in the Omni-Geodes.
[Item – Minerals – Thunder Egg - Its distinctive fluorescence makes it a favorite among rock collectors.– Sell Price: 150g]
Two of them had Prismatic Shards, but the last one had something special.
[Item – Ifrit Magicite – Magicite are the postmortem remains of an esper from the universe of Final Fantasy VI. Like in the games, pieces of magicite teach the recipient magic and allows them to use summons. This piece contains the Esper Ifrit. (Strength +1)]
Taeko pocketed it before making it leave for Gunther, but he got a notification.
[Achievement Made! Congrats! Geode Go-Getter – You collected all of minerals and artifacts from the regular Geodes! Reward: Golden C.R.A.T.E. and 22155 Gold]
He'd check the crate later and rushed to Gunther's dumping all the new additions on the counter. The look of the librarian's face was priceless.
"Well, hot damn. I got plenty of rewards for you!" He said jovially to Taeko.
[You've donated 20 Items! "A Night on Eco-Hill" painted added to Inventory!]
[You've donated 25 Items! "Jade Hills" painting added to Inventory!]
[You've donated 30 Items! "Lg. Futan Bear" added to Inventory!]
[You've donated 21 Minerals! "Singing Stone" added to Inventory!]
"Thanks, Gunther. I'll be back with more in due time." Taeko said leaving Gunther to wave goodbye.
The farmer passed by Penny handing off the Leek Juices before getting his promised 150 Gold for it, and by Pierre's to hand off the magicite telling him to give it to Abigail. He had rushed home to place his new paintings on the wall. The oversized stuffed bear he reasoned would make for a nice seat, and the Singing Stone went out on the porch.
"Nothing short of lovely, now, what had I forgetten…right, lunch." Taeko remarked as his stomach growled.
Tom whined about needed food as well as Taeko sighed saying that they will eat as well. He tossed the [Prismatic Shards] he had on him in the selling bin before focusing on the crate. He set the golden thing down on the ground before opening it and Taeko's jaw dropped at the three prizes.
[DX Megas XLR Hovercar – Vehicle – It's not all about giant robots! Coop tricked out this very special hovercar, complete with blazing flames. [Customizable] (FusionFall collectible)]
[Gamma Blacklight Shirt – Body (Equip Item) - Stand apart from any crowd in this dark zip-front shirt with its own green illumination. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 Defense)(Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)]
[Protoplasm Cannon – Shattergun - Favored by soldiers on the planet Anurphaetos, this weapon fires protoplasmic beams. Short-range/Damage Output: (35-40)(Fusion Fall Collectible)]
His old Alpha shirt and Spark Gun? Thrown into the selling bin as he put on the new shirt feeling confident as he got a text box about Vehicles.
[Means of Moving Around]
Within base game, aside from totems and towers to teleport you around, the only real means of moving without your feet is a horse. While this option is still here, new features have been added for you to get vehicles. Different cars, motorcycles, boats, and possibly planes can be available with the requirements meant. As you are right now, you can operate cars and certain boats. (Planes will come later.) You can buy vehicles…provided you have the cash to do so. All your vehicles are also customizeable, but you may have to order online or craft for certain mods. With a vehicle, you can now travel to Calico Desert and Zuzu City. Also, with wheels, you can appeal to people and scenes can be triggered. A garage to store your wheels will arrive tomorrow. Have a case of nitrous in your wheels on us! Happy driving!
Taeko made a promise to himself to hug Kyu tight for this. Before he got on his new wheels, he got the wine out of the keg before getting in his wheels. Tom and Logan hopped in the backseat as Taeko revved up the engine. Taeko sped down the road into town. Alex was practicing his football threw only for his aim to miss and bounce off his house. Taeko caught it and threw it back at him.
"What up Alex?" Taeko said coolly as Alex turned to look at Taeko in shock before getting hit with the ball.
"Where the hell did you get that?" Alex asked.
"Not telling!" Taeko said before driving towards the Saloon.
He parked by the Saloon, got out, and sauntered in with his pets.
"Yo, Gus. What's today's special? I'm starved." Taeko said coming up to the counter.
"It's brunch with the [Complete Breakfast]!" Gus said kindly. "500 Gold."
"I'll take three." Taeko said putting the money down.
"Coming right up, dear." Cosette said sweetly as Tom and Logan leapt up on the stool. "So, how's things going along?"
"Quite good. More money is flowing in, and I'm making waves. Even got me some wheels." Taeko said excitedly. "Emily, I got something for you."
He tossed Emily a [Ruby] and her eyes lit up.
"I love these. I could use them for working on my new projects! Thanks, Taeko, I love this!" Emily said excitedly.
[You gave Emily a loved gift! +80 Friendship Points]
Taeko even received a notice that the success of the mining trip netted Abigail, Sebastian, and Maru up to six hearts with new heart scenes in the future. Taeko ate his food heartily with his pets feeling quite good about himself before leaving the Saloon looking down at the last Ruby before noticing Haley staring at his new wheels.
"See something you like?" Taeko asked.
"Honestly, the flames are overkill and a bit childish." Haley said before noticing the Ruby. "But…I see the appeal. Think you could give me a ride?"
He knew she was playing him, but he sent Tom and Logan home.
"I know you want this [Ruby]." Taeko said bluntly. "But I'm not one to spoil."
"Now now, Taeko." Haley said getting in the passenger seat. "Take me for a drive and let's talk."
[Car Radio BGM: Desired – I'm So Alone]
Taeko got in, started up the car, and drove for the road. His map broadened to show the roads and Taeko kept an even pace going around the mountain road.
"Now, Mr. Maelstrom. I can assure you there are benefits to spoiling a girl like me." Haley said as Taeko wanted to roll his eyes. "I could do plenty for you that other girls won't."
Taeko snorted at that considering what he was getting at this point. Haley was a bit offended.
"Do the other girls of the valley have a body like mine?" Haley said with a pout.
"I'm more to appreciate a girl's best features. They all got something going for them. You're pretty yes, but you're…a bit in the middle. Not too big, not too small. You're basically a real-life movie trope. Of course, seeing I see personality alongside looks, that doesn't help for you." Taeko said, which struck a nerve on Haley's ego.
Haley was irritated but took a breath.
"But come now, I can offer you plenty. It must be lonely on your farm..." Haley said suggestively rubbing his shoulder. "No female company around."
Taeko could not hold it and broke down laughing. He had pulled over to catch a breath as Haley looked humiliated.
"Sorry, it's just that this is so cliché. Haley, you're pretty, but what's stopping me from going after any other girl in the Valley?" Taeko remarked.
"Because what I'm asking for isn't romance, but a service. You give me what I want, and I can make it worth your while." Haley said sweetly.
"So basically, you want me to be your Sugar Daddy?" Taeko said getting back on the road. "Are you not wealthy?"
"My parents cut my allowance…again." Haley admitted honestly.
"Why am I not surprised? Considering Emily has a job…" Taeko thought with an eye roll.
"But I can tell them that I'm working for you on the farm." Haley said. "And they'll raise my allowance. Just have to keep it all from Emily."
"And honestly, there isn't a lot stopping me from telling her either." Taeko said pulling up to the Bus Stop. "However, I'll consider your offer, but I'll hold onto the gem."
Haley pouted but left the car thanking him for the ride. Taeko drove back to his farm before parking his ride and cutting the engine.
[Music Ends]
"What a day." Taeko said seeing that it was nearing evening.
He came up to the farmhouse to see Shane was there.
"Shane? I've actually been wanting to talk to you." Taeko remarked.
"Heard of the corpse you dragged into town, that was a big one." Shane said with a chuckle. "Remind me to call you if I get in a fight in a bar?"
"Well, I'll fight for my friends, and I got something for you." Taeko said producing a bottle of Shadowy Desires. "I'm now making my own liquor."
Shane's eyes lit up taking it up.
"Well I'll be." Shane said excitedly. "Azorium. This could sell for 2…no 3,000 flat overseas. And you're just gifting this to me. This is more expensive than a simple beer."
"I figured that you'd want to test it, and besides saving you a few on beer could let you get something for Jas or something." Taeko said with a sigh.
Shane chuckled.
"Still, speaking of Jas…thanks again for protecting her from the wolves." Shane said walking down the steps. "And I'll make sure, Marnie gets some of this. How soon will be selling this stuff?"
"When I produce more. Prices will vary too due to my technique being improved. Hell, that bottle is worth about 2,000. Please don't down it all in one go. Savor it." Taeko said before going in. "Later, bro."
As Taeko went inside, Shane walked down the road looking down at the bottle. He felt a bit…guilty that Taeko up and gave him such an expensive gift. Thoughts came that he did not deserve it, and Shane looked to the sky before looking down at the bottle.
"I can't say I deserve this now, but…maybe if I'm a better friend, I can do say I do." He thought to himself.
[You gave Shane a liked gift! +45 friendship points!]
[STATS]
Taeko Kiba Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer/Freelancer Ronin
Age: 20 years
HP: 870/870
Energy: 769/769
Overall Level: Farmboy
Farming Skill Level: 3
Mining Skill Level: 5
Foraging Skill Level: 6
Fishing Skill Level: 4
Combat Skill Level: 10
Gold: 80864
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 as he 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 notice)
Gatherer - Chance for double harvest of foraged items. (20% chance of double harvest)
Geologist - Chance for gems to appear in pairs. (50% chance per Node. Also applies to geodes spawned from breaking rocks.)
Matters of the Mind - Gamer's Mind has expanded your mind to where you can perform new feats. (Access to learning telekinetic abilities)
Friend to all Children - You are considered a great person for kids to look up to. (This perk can have children more likely to trust you and see you as a role model. It can attract "MILF"s and make it easier to befriend motherly people.)
Fruitful Multiplying - Leah lends you support! Forage finding are doubled when you forage, and the growth of fruit trees are halved (V-Card Boost Doubles the multiplier).
Booze Boss - Pam lends you support! You have the ultimate tolerance. No Tipsy effect from drinking liquor. Any liquor you make is automatically silver quality. Double all sales of liquor.
[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%)
Gamma Blacklight Shirt – Body (Equip Item) – Stand apart from any crowd in this dark zip-front shirt with its own green illumination. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 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 – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points
Lewis – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 Friendship Points
Pierre – 2.4/10 Hearts – 600 Friendship Points
Robin – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points
Abigail – 6/10 Hearts – 1500 Friendship Points
Caroline – 3/10 Hearts – 750 Friendship Points
George – 1.8/10 Hearts – 450 Friendship Points
Evelyn – 1.8/10 Hearts – 450 Friendship Points
Alex – 1.5/10 Hearts – 385 Friendship Points
Harvey – 1.4/10 Hearts – 350 Friendship Points
Maru – 6/10 Hearts – 1500 Friendship Points
Linus – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 Friendship Points
Gus (and Cosette) – 3/10 Hearts – 750 Friendship Points
Sebastian – 6/10 Hearts – 1500 Friendship Points
Haley – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points
Emily – 2.4/10 – 610 Friendship Points
Penny – 6.6/10 – 1650 Friendship Points
Jas – 9.4/10 Hearts – 2350 Friendship Points
Vincent – 9.4/10 Hearts – 2350 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 – 3.2/10 Hearts – 795 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) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 2) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 3) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 4) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 5) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 6) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 7) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 8) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 9) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 10) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 11) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
Row 12) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/5)
[Column 2]
Row 1) Rice (Days in the Soil: 0/8)
Row 2) Rice (Days in the Soil: 0/8)
Row 3) Rice (Days in the Soil: 0/8)
Row 4) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 5) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 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 9) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 17/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 11) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 15/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
[Column 3]
Row 1) Beans (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 15/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 2) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 3) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 14/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 4) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 5) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 15/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 7/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 5/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
[Column 4]
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 35/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 35/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 35/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 9) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 35/28) (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) (4/4)-
(Day 14 Total Profits: 28,570)
(Shadow Farm's Total Profits (This adds all the money made by the end of each day): 93,444 Gold)
[Status of the Pets]
[Will only be posted up if they level up.]
[SAVING GAME]
….
….
[GAME SAVED!]
(A/N: Two weeks, and Taeko's nearing making 100k on his farm. And we get to see more of the updates! That's right, we're getting more Fusion Fall and Final Fantasy collectibles. I realized that the updates to the game included some new stuff in the desert. So, I decided to add something to this story. Vehicles! There's no reason for them not to be there. I also teased a little of the deviancy path for Haley…it's going to be cliché but Taeko is going to mock it while taking advantage. We're halfway through this fic, two more weeks to go before the next season.)
(Remastered A/N: I just want to note that while I didn't forgot about the Final Fantasy collectibles in future chapters, I didn't put more out there going forward. Something to fix for the Summer series. At least this chapter didn't have too many mistakes.)