The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 22 – Homegrown Gangsters
Tuesday, the 16th 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!]
Taeko awoke bright and early checking his phone for text messages. He noted he had a few and decided to hurry through them.
[Text Message from Ling Shan]
[Taeko, I wanted to let you know that I'll be…moving into town today. Before you ask, no this isn't for an undermining. Woozie wants to invest in you, something about wanting to try some of your farm's products. Look, I'll stay out of your way. No need for make things awkward.]
"Well at least she's upfront about it." Taeko said before moving to the next text.
[Text Message from Maru]
[Taeko, Abigail somehow rush-ordered some workout clothes. But...*blush emoji*, they're awfully tight around me. Dad didn't like them. I feel exposed in them, I may as well not be wearing a swimsuit or anything at all. 3 What do you think? Am I bit pudgy?]
There were three attached photos. The first one was her new outfit, a v-necked black sport bra with red lining, a matching sports thong, black boots, and hair was in a ponytail. He gulped. She did not look too bad in it at all with that pose. The "pudge" she was asking for was barely noticeable. Then again, any average woman would look a bit pudgy compared to Abigail. Maru's second photo was focused on her booty with the pose, and Taeko breathed in how perfectly plump it was. The final photo was what got Taeko heavily breathing. She was topless in her next with her arm covering them in a pose just teasing Taeko with the biting of her lip. If Taeko could get away with it, he would definitely have her photo as a lock screen. He probably could consider that seeing the photo was shot to not show her eyes.
"Ok…I got another from Melanie?" Taeko said before moving on to the next text.
[Text Message from Melanie]
[Taeko, thanks again for protecting me and helping me get out of the city. You didn't tell me you had the hookups with the Ferngill Traids, though. Frankly, you grew more interesting by the second. A shame, that is. If I wasn't so arrogant, you'd make for an interesting news story. Either way, I had to give the data I had on Joja, but I covertly made sure to send you a copy. File's compressed and encrypted, had to be to send it through my phone. On a side note, I'm off to South Island to start anew. I just hope I can scrape enough cash to find a place. If you're visiting South Island, hit me up. Yours, Melanie]
He quickly made a call to Hikari.
"Yeah, it's your oniisan. Listen, do you remember that old co-worker that I complained about? The one exposed as undercover. Yeah, she's coming to your neck of the woods. Look, everything's cool between us now. I saved her life, and I wanted to ask if you can build her a house. Nothing big, just a basic one. Considering it's a small town with no apartment buildings." Taeko rattled off as Hikari responded here and there.
"Look, I'll build the house, but you are going to have to pay for it." Hikari said as Taeko told her that he had plenty of money. "Well, can you supply 5,000?"
Hikari found that 7,000 was beamed into her account.
"Some extra, she'll need furnishings." Taeko remarked.
"What did she do to get you extend this kindness?" Hikari asked.
"Dirt on Joja. Valuable dirt." Taeko said uploading the file into the computer. "Joja tried to kill her, and she's been in hiding, so whatever it is has to be valuable."
"Still, she sent you the Joja under the Triads' noses. Pray that doesn't backfire." Hikari said firmly. "But I will build the house and furnish it. I expect you want me to help her find work."
"She was unfairly blackballed as a reporter. It wasn't right that Joja did that." Taeko vented firmly. "Can you help?"
"I can't make her a news reporter, but one of the radio stations needs a new host. I will arrange it. You're too nice, you know." Hikari said as Taeko retorted, "Old enemies can be your greatest allies against Joja. Plus, she was an arrogant woman, no real harm compared to what Joja did."
"Fair enough, oniisan. I'll see you later." Hikari said before hanging up.
"I got one more text, and it's from a Manny?" Taeko said concerned.
[Text Message from Manny]
[Taeko, I got your number from Woozie. We've seen your driving skills and Woozie's let us know you may be interested in some racing. If you're interested, drop my tattoo parlor, Manny's Tatts.]
The game was nice enough to mark that place on his map and add Manny to his contact list. Taeko got up, showered, had breakfast consisting of pancakes, dressed, and went outside to stretch. Tom pointed to a box that was sitting at the end of the stairs. He took it inside and took the note up.
Heard you're starting a bit of a gang, so I took the liberty to poke around your head. Pulled an idea for a symbol and got you some stuff to get started. – Love, Kyu. P.S. You hit your goal, congrats. We'll give you what we promised at the end of the year.
Taeko opened the box to find a small flag with the symbol he thought of for the Shadow Yakuza, a ghostly shiny Mega Rayquaza with yellow replaced with green. Inside the box were jackets, hoodies, shirts, bandanas, and the like. He knew what he had to do.
"Tom, I need you to go to Shane and give them this paper." Taeko said scribbling a note down.
He put in between Tom's collar as Tom ran out of the house. Logan was sent out to hunt for Spring Onions and Leeks. He texted Abigail, Penny, Maru, and Sebastian to come over. Leah, he actually called.
"Hey Taeko, mornin'. Is this a booty call or something?" Leah asked sleepily yawning.
"No, Leah. I need you to come over. It's important." Taeko said, being firm with her.
"Are you in trouble?" Leah asked, worried.
"No, but I have decided to expand on something, and I need you here." Taeko said remarked.
"All right, I'm comin'." Leah said before hanging.
Abigail, in her training clothes, came there first knocking on the door to which Taeko let her in.
"You called me over so early." Abigail said with a raised eyebrow. "Training or…something else?"
"I called the others." Taeko said as Abigail blushed.
"Taeko, I don't know if I'd be down for…" Abigail said only for Taeko to say, "No! No! It's not for a sex thing! Just sit on the couch and wait for the others. I'll explain."
Abigail did so while mumbling a sorry for thinking Taeko was saying to host a sex party. Shane came with Tom in his arms.
"Your cat ate my breakfast." Shane said dryly.
"I'll heat up some of my Fish 'n' Blitz Chips." Taeko said as Shane took a seat.
[Tom succeeded in his mission! +20 EXP]
Taeko got out the food out of the fridge to heat up as Logan came in with a bunch of Spring Onions and Leeks in his mouth.
[Logan has returned from his hunt! He has found (5) Spring Onions and (3) Leeks! +30 EXP! Logan has leveled up, five stats points are available to spend.]
"Good dog." Taeko said taking the catches from his mouth to wash.
Logan yipped as Penny came in through the door with a covered plate.
"I got your call and I figured I'd whip some bacon." Penny said sweetly.
"Good, it can go with the onion bread I'm making." Taeko said cooking away.
One all the food was done, Sebastian and Maru arrived with Maru in the new workout clothes.
"I'm surprised your dad let you leave in that." Abigail chuckled.
"Eh, he fussed about it." Maru said, taking a seat. "But I see everyone else is here."
"Not yet. Where's Leah?" Taeko remarked as she came through the door. "Oh…"
Leah had come over in her sleepwear, which was just an oversized T-shirt and panties.
"What? I was going to go back to sleep…after this." Leah said getting comfy on a chair.
"Ok, with all of you here. Let me cut to the chase. I called you all here because I have an announcement." Taeko said excitedly. "I'm expanding on my business, and I wish that you take part of it."
"So, you are going through with the Syndicate." Sebastian mused as Leah, Shane, and Penny wanted an explanation.
A quick explanation later and Shane was gaping like a fish at Taeko. He knew the guy was tough, but he was blown away.
"The Syndicate will simply be us united working together with our talents, but the real backbone will be Shadow Yakuza which will be us in this room." Taeko remarked.
"I thought you needed to Japanese to be or st…oh right, nevermind that. But why us?" Shane asked.
"Some of you I trust, others I have a common enemy with." Taeko remarked. "We all know that Joja wants this town, and if we want to shoot them down in that goal, we work together. The monsters within the caves need to be dealt with among other things."
"If we going to do this, you got a symbol?" Abigail said only for Taeko to unveil it. "Freakin' A!"
Taeko revealed he had them on tops, hoodies, and works.
"So, will there be illegal fronts? Just askin'." Sebastian asked curiously.
"Hopefully, no, but who knows. The worst will definitely be street racing. I got an invite for a race." Taeko admitted.
"Because we could profit if you grew weed." Sebastian said to everyone's surprise. "What? Weed's hard to get, and the dealer I used to go ended up sliding with the Purple Dragons."
"Right now, if I recall, weed's in a gray area. They're still debating. You could grow it, but you just can't sell it so openly." Shane remarked.
"I'll consider it, but there's one thing to ask you all. You in?" Taeko asked.
"If I do this, I really need to make more money." Penny remarked. "Because this sounds like a good chance to make enough to move the hell out."
"Actually, I might be able to help with that. But I need to secure land to do so…unless you don't mind living on a boat?" Taeko said.
"Personally, as long as I get out from out of my mother's place, then it's fine." Penny said as Leah pointed out she could stay with her for a while. "I'll consider it."
"Penny. I promise you I'll find a way. Hell, I'll get a freakin' boat for you if I have to." Taeko said firmly.
"Well then, I'm in." Penny said.
All of them had their agreements and the last was Shane.
"Here I am in the thick of it. Taeko, you've branched out to me. Heck, even when I gave you shit in the early days." Shane said touched. "I am touched you even called me over to offer this chance to me. I'm in."
"Well then, let's celebrate." Taeko said producing a bottle of his Ancient Fruit wine. "I'll get the glasses. And Penny, I'll get you something else. Milk'll do?"
"It will." Penny said as Taeko returned with shot glasses for all as he poured it out.
"To the Shadow Yakuza." Taeko remarked raising a glass. "Let's work our way up."
They all clinked glasses and drank while having a bit of breakfast. Taeko was breaking down the ranks and roles of this group.
"Just to make sure, Kumicho or Oyabun refers to you as the boss, Taeko. Leah's the Shateigashira, your second in command, your underboss. And what about the rest of us?" Shane asked.
"Maru's going to be a Komon, a specialist, considering she'll be mainly working on our weapons and any tech that I don't work on. Technically, Komon would apply if you got a talent in something that supplies business. As for the rest, typically, a Yakuza is all-male group, but we're shooting that tradition in the foot. So, we don't really have a special name for regular members. They were just called gang brothers or sisters." Taeko said with a shrug. "Either way, who wants a shirt or a hoodie?"
He found a black tokkofuku combat jacket with the symbol on the back with dark green cuffs and collar along with another one with dark red cuffs and collar in the box.
"Mine." Taeko said putting in on before tossing the other one towards to Leah. "Hers."
They all looked in the box also finding hachimans which Abigail took one to wear around her waist. With everyone having taken something, the group chatted for a bit before separating. Sebastian had asked about tattoos to which Taeko explained about Manny.
"Choice. When you're heading there, let me know." Sebastian said before leaving. "Anyway, I'm off to work."
"I need to prepare for myself. Ugh, Taeko, let me know when you are ready to talk. Considering you're going into business; I have got a proposition I want you to consider. If it works out, I could quit that dump job at Joja." Shane said before leaving.
"Thanks for trusting me to be your underboss. I need to go home and get some sleep." Leah said walking off for home.
"I'll be working to look into options." Penny said before leaving just him, Maru, and Abigail.
"You know, you could buy her a cabin." Maru remarked.
"I do, but I don't want to suddenly move her onto the farm." Taeko remarked. "Plus, I rather not have Pam stumbling into the farm."
"That's fair. Maybe you could ask Woozie if he could spare an old yacht or houseboat?" Abigail suggested.
Taeko told them he'd consider it, but for now it was time for training. All three went outside to get started. Abigail and Taeko ran Maru through some basic sparring stances and attacks. Taeko found Maru a stronger puncher and had an idea.
"Panantukan. It's a fighting style from the Philippines, they focus mostly on punches and elbow strikes. I'll see if I can find a book or two on it for you." Taeko said before taking a stance. "But let's see if you can keep up."
An hour later, Maru had to go and head off to work at the clinic but not before kissing Taeko on the cheek and bidding them goodbye.
"She's not too bad, and you didn't stare at her too much." Abigail teased.
"Oh, shut up." Taeko teased back. "Yes, she looks so cute in them, but fighting has left me disciplined."
"So, if I offered to blow you, would you be disciplined to say no?" Abigail snarked.
"I'm a martial artist, not a priest." Taeko snarked back. "Now, there's the matter of what to do today. It's already eight in the morning."
"We could tackle the mines. Hit up the first five floors before lunch." Abigail suggested. "Just you and me."
Taeko could not refuse that offer and called up the pets. Abigail went off to change but before kissing Taeko told him to meet her at the mines. Taeko went inside to get ready by putting out non-essentials from his [Inventory]. He did put a few food items in there to carry with him in the mines just in case even if it was five floors. He bought a bottle of [Ancient Fruit Wine] for good luck and even made a [Miner's Treat] before leaving with his pets to the Mines.
-o-
As Taeko and Abigail were off to the Mines, two cars were driving towards town. One a plain sedan and the other a customized ride. A 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302 (Gen. 1) painted red with lotus blossoms on the sides, black painted rims, a purple Impact spoiler, and blue neon under it. The drivers were members of the Triads just ensuring to deliver the customized car to its owner, Ling Shan, who just arrived by yacht to Pelican Town. Ling Shan looked at the beach and had to admit it was rather nice. The idea of enjoying idea was a nice one, but she rather if this was Woozie's way of saying she was too tense. She sighed as she asked why she was even complaining. All she was doing was town-sitting and she got to do it from a yacht being her houseboat. She looked in the mirror just to make sure she was presentable even though she already did so. It was nice being free from her brother, and maybe she could live her life without her brother hounding her.
The idea of maybe being able to have a relationship was a nice thought and that Sebastian fellow was not too bad looking plus he had an interest. She moored the boat and stepped onto the dock to see Willy fishing.
"Oh, good morning, young lady. What brings someone like you to the valley?" Willy said kindly.
"Well, I heard of this place from someone who lives here. Clear air, pretty close to nature, and all that. Came to stay for a while and find some work." Ling Shan said politely. "I'm just looking for the Stardew Saloon, maybe work security."
Willy laughed at that saying that the Saloon has never needed security considering the town's low rate of crime and Cosette being capable of handling most things. It hit Ling that she never considered the crime rate when she said she'd work in the Saloon and paled.
"If you're looking for work, I could use an assistant in the shop, if you don't mind fishing." Willy offered.
Working with the fisherman was not her first choice, but she realized it would have some advantages. She was living close to it already, so getting to and from work would not be an issue. Plus, she would basically get time on the beach to fish. Fishing was something she had done as a hobby…usually on buildings to fish things from people.
"I accept your offer." Ling Shan said, shaking hands with Willy. "I'm Ling Shan."
"Willy." Willy said kindly. "Now if you're moving in, you'll need to check in with the Mayor. Mayor Lewis is pretty easy to spot with his cap and suspenders."
Ling nodded and headed for town.
"Hmm, I wonder if she can make sushi?" Willy thought, watching her leave. "But that's if she's Japanese…or was it a Chinese thing first? I need to check."
Willy was glad for cell phones to ask all matter of questions. Ling had made her way into town, and she got a relaxed and quiet vibe of the place.
"It's so quiet. But why does Joja even want this place so bad?" She thought before finding the mayor.
She introduced herself and she found him to be rather pleasant. Much to her relief, considering she was living by boat moored to the dock, she did not really have to pay much in taxes other than a small rental fee.
"Welcome to Pelican Town, Ms. Shan. Sorry, you couldn't get that security job you wanted, but if you're a fighter, there is the adventurer's guild up the mountain." Lewis said as Ling raised. "Yes, it's a worldwide group dedicated to fighting against the monster population and all matter of beasts."
"Monsters? He's yanking my chain, right?" Ling thought. "But…I wonder. It would explain the swords."
"Would a Taeko be involved?" Ling asked, taking a risk.
"Mr. Maelstrom? You know him?" Lewis asked.
"We've met…he's part of the reason I came." Ling remarked.
"Yes, he's one of newest licensed adventurers. He's been a bit of an influence lately. I guess I owe him thanks for him being a reason for you coming." Lewis mirthfully said. "One of his catches is being displayed in our local museum."
"I'll take a look, thank you." Ling said walking off towards the museum.
With the paperwork in her purse, she walked off to the museum.
-MoS-
[Mine Brown Earth Floors BGM Unlocked: Kirby & The Amazing Mirror OST - Area 03 Cabbage Cavern]
[Floor 21]
Abigail had not expected a swarm of slimes right off the bat, but they promptly took out them all out. Logan and Tom were both given a cave carrot to munch on.
[Tom and Logan teamed up against many slimes! Tom gains 50 EXP (x5 multipler for the chain attack)! Logan gains 50 EXP! Tom has leveled up and there's five points to spend.]
Taeko put two towards Intelligence and Wisdom, and one for Dexterity. Abigail looked around for loot finding three battle discs.
[Item – Hyper Voice Disc – This disc will teach the move Hyper Voice to your pet; the user lets loose a horribly echoing shout with the power to inflict damage. (Power: 90/MP Cost: 50). If your pet knows Roar, that move is replaced by Hyper Voice as it also doubles as a Roar.]
[Item – Iron Jaws Disc – This disc will teach the move Iron Jaws to your pet; the user lets a wicked bite that's as hard as iron. This may also lower the target's Defense. (Power: 80) If your pet knows Bite, that move is replaced.]
[Item – Icy Wind Disc – This disc will teach the move Icy Wind to your pet; the user lets out a freezing wind. This may also lower the target's Speed. (Power: 55/MP Cost: 10) This move can be upgraded later.]
[Item - Shadow Strike Disc – This disc will the move Shadow Strike to your pet, the user extends its shadow and attacks the foe from behind. This move always goes first. (Power: 40/MP Cost: 25)]
"Well, I know which ones I'm using on who." Taeko said using the discs on his pets. "Come on, next floor awaits!"
Abigail hauled the rest loot, and they all went to the next floor.
[Floor 22]
It had seemed fairly quiet and full of weeds, rocks, and so on. Taeko sheathed his swords, got out his Pickaxe and ate at that [Miner's Treat] to boost his mining. He told Abigail to be on guard as he went to plow through some rocks and nodes. Logan stayed close to his master while Tom went off on his own. The ninja cat was still hungry. He spotted a Duggy and tried his [Shadow Strike] to get the drop on it managing to get it his mouth biting down on it. Chewing on it happily, Tom suddenly stops to see a new menacing figure. As Taeko and Abigail were gathering jewels from the nodes they cracked open, they both Tom wail. They turned to see Tom running towards them dodging fireballs. Out of the ground rose a giant red duggy that was a size of an average man with bulging yellow veins and hollow white soulless eyes.
[Mini-Boss – Diablo del Duggy – Thought regular duggy were dicks? Meet King Dick. Unlike regular duggy, this duggy spews fire attacks. This is because they boil from the lava sector of the mines. While it has no defense, the edge of having a lot of health and a monster attack. It can summon other duggy to fight for it and resist Fire and Ice moves. Stats: HP (4000) / Damage (60-?) / Defense (0) / Speed (15) / EXP Given (250) / Drops: Yes]
[Boss BGM: [Dragon Ball Z: Supersonic Warriors 2 Music] – Ruins]
"We got us a mini-boss!" Taeko said jumping back to dodge a fireball. "Please tell me you got water magic!"
"No…" Abigail said before getting hit with a fireball scorching her armor. "Aw, come on!"
Logan circled around in a show of wisdom before sinking his [Iron Jaws] into Diablo getting it to screech in pain.
[Diablo del Duggy – HP: 3770/4000]
Diablo increased its body heat forcing Logan to let go and back off only to get smacked across the floor.
[Logan's HP – 275/315]
"Logan, here. Take this!" Taeko said throwing his loveable lab a Spring Onion to eat and heal.
Taeko unsheathed Raikari and fired off an electrically charged [Blade Beam] lashing Diablo paralyzing it for a few seconds for Abigail to rush in with Espada slashing it a few times before bouncing back using a basic energy blast.
[Diablo del Duggy – HP: 3200/4000]
"Tom, use [Boiling Water Gun]!" Taeko said Tom spewed steaming water out of his mouth.
Taeko got out his shattergun when the Diablo called up Duggys to attack on its behalf and opened fire. Tom used Flash to blind Diablo causing it to miss Abigail, before using Icy Wind on the duggies causing ice to surround Diablo. Taeko sensed Diablo and yelled for Tom to return to his side.
"What's it doing?!" Abigail said as a purple flame appeared on its head.
Diablo opens its mouth and creates a ball of orange fire in its mouth before releasing a wind of flames at them blowing them all away. Taeko hit the wall and the others were on the ground getting up.
[Current Health: 625/870 | Energy: 669/769]
[Tom's Health: 200/372 | MP: 282/372]
[Logan's Health: 265/315]
"Abigail, you, okay?" Taeko asked as Abigail got up.
Her Proton Armor cracked before the top crumbled to pieces revealing Abigail's bare orbs as the attack burned the undershirt as well. Her pants and shoes shattered as well leaving Abigail in only a pair of purple panties with a white skull on the back. She covered her chest with both arms as both blushed bright crimsons.
"Taeko! I wasn't ready to strip down to just my panties in front of you." Abigail said, trying to lighten the mood.
"At least I know you're excited of fighting by my side." Taeko said in jest.
It only made the moment a little more awkward when Abigail realized her nipples were rather rigid. Abigail blushed to realize she was showing a little bit more sign of arousal, but she was glad Taeko had not noticed.
"A shade of barely pink. Almost like Leah's." Taeko thought, blushing.
"I think I might be a little turned on from fighting. Is that weird?" Abigail remarked as Diablo was panting.
"I have a thing for women who fight so I can't really say yes to that." Taeko said, giving her his jacket. "For what's it worth, all that training did wonders for your core."
Abigail put it on closing it up thanking Taeko for the jacket. The kumicho got out a small jug of milk and drank the thing in one go.
[Current Health: 642/870 | Energy: 709/769]
"Need one?" Taeko offered.
"Nah. Regen!" Abigail said glowing green before the others did as well.
"Ok, I have enough materials to make some [Cherry Bombs]. We can turn its fire against it, but we need a distraction. And I got an idea!" Taeko said, getting to Logan's collar. "Let's see Diablo fight a Silver Lobo!"
Taeko activated as Logan was consumed by red energy transforming into a Silver Lobo!
"I'm going to take a fucking guess and say JojaTech." Abigail said as Taeko nodded. "Ok, now I think don't want to buy their produce if they make shit like that!"
"Logan, do what you can to keep that bastard back!" Taeko ordered as Logan yipped. "Let's hope the transformations boost his vitality."
Logan felt stronger in his new form and tried to perform a [Hyper Voice] attack. He took a deep breath, opened his mouth, and let a mighty roar releasing visible white sound waves forcing Diablo back hurling him into the wall causing the place to rumble.
[Diablo's HP: 2556/4000]
"Damn!" Taeko thought, making the three Cherry Bombs. "Now, let's give this butthole a blast!"
He lit two of them and hurled them both into the air calling for Logan to use his [Hyper Voice] to propel them to Diablo which Logan did once again. The Diablo was on its last legs as it wailed, forcing its body to be consumed in flames.
"I think it wants to take us out with it!" Abigail cried.
"Like hell it will!" Taeko said as his energy flared. "Because I'm going to fight fire with fire!" Taeko said readying both blades with Raikiri in his mouth. "Borrowing Espada!"
Taking Espada and having three swords, he took a stance with the swords glowing as he lunged at the beast. Diablo's purple flames heated up the room before it fired a spiraling stream of light blue fire with rings of dark blue fire at in Taeko's way. He bit down and went through the flames.
"[YAKI ONIGIRI!]" Taeko said having the fire swirling around him as he slashed through Diablo spray it's burning blood all over the walls as it hit the dirt.
Taeko landed on his feet with the flames on him on his clothes were wrecked. His shirt was lost to the flames much to his ire.
"Here's your swor-MMPHH!" Taeko said before Abigail rushed in to hungrily kiss him before breaking away.
"That was hot…you were amazing." Abigail said before reclaiming Espada. "Sorry…"
[You defeated "Diablo del Duggy"! You gained 20 Diamonds added to your Inventory! Both pets get 250 EXP! Logan Leveled from 12 - 14, with 10 points to spend! Tom leveled from 11 - 13, with 10 points to spend! Follow the hole Diablo came out for his treasure!]
[Mine Brown Earth Floors BGM Unlocked: Kirby & The Amazing Mirror OST - Area 03 Cabbage Cavern]
Taeko noticed Diablo blow up leaving behind its heart and a hole. Abigail took the heart as a trophy as Taeko panted. His energy was barely a hundred and his health was looking shabby as well. He downed that bottle of wine restoring some of his lost energy and health before tossing Tom and Logan some sashimi. Taeko looked at the hole the beast came out and jumped down telling the orders to follow.
Logan yipped and dived in first with Tom and Abigail following. Of course, Abigail now had to carry the stuff from her pockets in her hands.
[Floor 23a]
What they found was strange as the floor seemed rather warm, Taeko looked around before finding an opening, what they found was Diablo's lair which was a hot spring.
"Jackpot. Now if any there was an elevato…Oh my gosh there is." Taeko said as the elevator lit up. "And that's even a ladder down to the next floor."
"And look at the loot!" Abigail said excitedly pointing to the cache of chests and stuff the beast hoarded. "There's over 50 [Diamonds] on the ground!"
Taeko let Abigail take most of them while only having 10 for himself before also finding CRATES as well which meant FusionFall collectables. Taeko opened them to find several pieces of clothing.
[Superior Button Halter (Girls) – Body (Equip Item) - The perfect top for warm-weather alien fighting, with stylish stripes and button detail. (FusionFall collectible) [Defense +2 | Speed +2] (Wearable by females only)]
[Mint Tunic (Girls) – Body (Equip Item) - Girly top has scalloped edges, high tech details, and is ready for any skirmish. (FusionFall collectible) [Defense +3] (Wearable by females only)]
[Subatomic Shirt– Body (Equip Item) - Particle physics joins forces with modern tech style in this tailored body armor. (FusionFall collectible) [Defense +4]]
[Ice Armor – Body (Equip Item) - This frozen torso armor may be an RPG trope, but atleast you're protected! (FusionFall collectible) [Defense +2]]
[Ice Leggings – Legs (Equip Item) - A little stiff, these frozen leggings provide surprising protection. [+ Adds Ice Tangent to Attacks/Boost Ice Attacks] [+2 Defense] (FusionFall collectible)]
[Gamma Blacklight Pants – Legs (Equip Item) - Dark with subtle green glow, these pants are built for the stealthy soldier. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 Defense) (Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)]
[Clockwork Digital Boots – Feet (Equip Item) - Stomp into a new age and complete the Clockwork Digital outfit with these boots. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 Defense, +1 Speed)]
[Omnitrix Kicks – Feet (Equip Item) - They may not allow for alien transformations, but these shoes offer plenty of support on the battlefield! (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense, +1 Speed)]
[Forever Ninja Ivory Helmet – Hat (Equip Item) - A variant of the original, the Ebony set is particularly effective in snowy regions. (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense, +2 Speed) [Bonus boosts are available if the other pieces of the Forever Ninja set are worn]]
[Soda Drink Hat – Hat (Equip Item) - Tell everyone you're "number one" with this fashionable hat. (FusionFall collectible) (While it offers no stat boosts, you can fill the containers with a few drinks, and use it to gain a Regen+ status)]
Abigail was salivating at the jackpot and relieved she did not have to go home in just her panties. She did not exactly want her parents to freak. Though Taeko's clothes were in bad shape.
"Well, you want to open the other CRATES?" Taeko asked.
"I…can we try the hot springs?" Abigail asked, taking off Taeko's jacket. "I mean we may as well relax in them given our clothes are mostly ruined."
Taeko could blush a bit, but Abigail pretty much pointed out she's almost practically naked in of him anyway and it's only fair for him to join in. Taeko was easily convinced as he disrobed.
"Besides, I could use a cooling off." Taeko thought as Abigail shyly got off her panties. "The pubes are like a little puple flame with a bit of brown. Glad they weren't burned off."
"It's always nice to know that still see me as attractive." Abigail said with a giggle pointing at the blatant bulge in his boxers. "Let me help you."
Taeko squirmed as Abigail pulled them out him as his fleshy sword sprang free lightly smacking Abigail's head.
"We should get in…" Taeko said gesturing to the hot spring.
"Not just yet. You look tense and I don't feel right leaving this unfulfilled." Abigail said getting up and boldly grabbing his shaft to stroke it. "Besides, my sensei deserves this."
A small moan escaped Taeko's lip as precum dribbled onto her hand. He had wanted Abigail, and his body was clearly showing it. Abigail, for her boldness, was a little nervous being so close and doing this. She had asked if she was doing it right to which Taeko responded with a bit of bravery. Two fingers of his slid into her getting a surprised yelp out of her.
"I wanted to return the favor; I just noticed your panties were wet just now." Taeko said as Abigail breathed onto his neck.
Both took their time with each other, looking into each other's eyes before it descended into a bit of a heated make out. Their free hands wandered as Abigail squealed as Taeko took a handful of her behind. Abigail came to orgasm first being she was mostly inexperienced with Taeko spraying his seed creaming her abs.
"That felt really good, Taeko." Abigail said, pulling away. "And you were really backed up. Saving this all for me? I figured you would have been in another girl."
"You thought I had gotten in Maru or Penny's pants?" Taeko asked as Abigail got out a few napkins to clean up.
"Maru, maybe? Penny, she's a bit of a mouse. I figured you'd make the first move." Abigail said chuckling. "Maru does have a bit of the hots for you. Penny eyeing you up."
"And you don't mind?" Taeko said surprised.
"Taeko, you're kind of like a harem protagonist, except you're not completely dense. You and Maru got plenty in common, and you're pretty much a darling to Penny. Besides, what other guy in town could get so many attracted to him?" Abigail snarked as Taeko laughed. "Elliot, Harvey, Alex, Clint?"
"Oh god no…definitely not Clint" Taeko said through his laughing.
The awkwardness of the moment left as they entered the hot spring soaking in the water. As Taeko hoped, it doubled as a healing spring healing their wounds.
"Taeko, there's also something else. There's another reason why I wouldn't mind this little harem. Penny's energy feels off, different. I don't know what exactly, but I noticed whenever her mom maddens her, her eyes flare up. I wanted you to keep close to investigate." Abigail admitted.
"I had a feeling about it, but let's just relax. My student deserves it for her wonderful performance." Taeko said sweetly.
"One last thing, about calling you a harem protag? Would you think it's weird that I think it's a bit of a turn-on?" Abigail said as Taeko shook his head no. "Thought so."
[You've achieved a moment of intimacy with Abigail. Abigail's friendship goes up to seven hearts! Because of your steamy encounters, the photos you'll get will get hotter in turn.]
Logan had returned to his normal form and jumped in with Tom begrudgingly taking a dip to heal his wounds. Cleaned up and healed up, Taeko and Abigail dried off before getting to their new clothes. Abigail was glad she carried the Ice Boots with her in her bag putting them on it along with the Ice Armor and Leggings. She had put on the Superior Button Halter as an undershirt given her bra was destroyed. Taeko slipped the Forever Ninja mask on her head citing it will balance out.
"I feel like a knight version of Subzero." Abigail said confidently.
Taeko donned the [Subatomic Shirt], [Gamma Pants], and the [Omnitrix Kicks] before putting back on his jacket. It was a bit too green he had thought, but it worked. As for the rest, Taeko took them to his [Inventory] figuring he would keep the [Soda Hat] for himself and gift/sell the other two things. To lighten the load on his storage, he gave Abigail a bottle of parsnip juice telling her to give that to her mother.
He also was going to eat the Onion Bread when Tom snatched it and the other Spring Onion ravenously eating them. He let Logan have the rest of Sashimi and the Fish 'n' Blitz Chips leaving him and Abigail to go through the rest of the loot. The next crate had a glittery gold color and Taeko opened it to find two futuristic pistols, both being the [V-Charger Super Special].
[Weapon – V-Charger Super Special – Pistol - This trusty sidearm makes use of material from Crystalline Caverns to fire a concentrated beam. Short-range/Damage Output: (32-62) (FusionFall Collectible)]
He let Abigail have it even though as he wanted it himself before also finding a rocket launcher.
[Weapon - Cactus Cannon – Rocket Launcher - A bazooka blast from the Cactus Cannon will send your enemies to their doom. Long-range/Damage Output: (192-252) (FusionFall Collectible)]
"No, Abigail. We're not using this in the mines." Taeko said taking it.
The last CRATE had a better sheath that allowed for the storing of multiple swords saving Taeko inventory space as he put Raikiri in it with Eclipse. His knife went into his jacket. He also found a sword.
[Weapon – Crystal Sword – Sword - Though Fionna may be imaginary, her sword still packs a punch! (FusionFall Collectible)]
"You take it. It's not my style." Taeko said giving it to Abigail. "Now, let's open the barrels. We got five, let's crack them open."
The first barrel had nothing but peppers and cherries leading to Taeko having a feeling the Diablo hoarded this for food. He drank that last jug of milk he had before taking all of that into his [Inventory] saying he was going to make a lot of cherry wine. What else to do with over two hundred cherries and peppers? The second one was half full of coal which Abigail let Taeko help. The third barrel was full of jewels of various types with rubies, amethysts, aquamarines, and emeralds. Taeko let Abigail had all the amethysts and his topazes in exchange for the emeralds. The fourth barrel had Slime Eggs which Taeko could not use until he had a hutch for them, but he did get two [Duck Eggs]. The final barrel had gold which the game counted as 30,000. His half of it put him back to nearly being a millionaire again.
"That's about it, and I held those Slime Eggs are super valuable." Abigail said happily. "Let's use the elevator and go back up. We could continue from here next time."
Taeko noticed one last object he missed from the CRATEs and fished it out.
[Generator Rex Hoverboard – Vehicle – Now you can ride the same hoverboard as Rex, except this one doesn't grow out of your feet [Customizable] (FusionFall collectible)]
He had Abigail have it because he had a hovercar already and they promptly left the mines.
[Music Ends]
They left the mines and Abigail quickly sold off the Slime Eggs walking out of the guild with fat pockets. Taeko had sold them the slimes he got as Abigail was riding on her new board.
"I am so going to love coming home on this!" Abigail said as she went ahead to town.
Taeko had sent Logan and Tom home to rest up as he went over to the Grant home. He found Sebastian practicing sword strikes.
"Not bad, Bass." Taeko said as Sebastian turned to see him. "I got something for you."
He produced the Clockwork boots to explain it was a part of a variant of the Clockwork set, but Sebastian was fine with it putting them on.
"I'll just get the Digital set later. I hope maybe we could buy these online or in a store in the future." Sebastian remarked as he fist bumped his best friend.
"So, this is where you live." Ling Shan said walking up.
"Ling?" Sebastian and Taeko said. "What are you…"
"I just moved in. I needed a life away from the city, and the commute from it was decent. Sebastian, was it? Interested in showing me around town?" Ling asked.
It was there that Taeko noticed that Lin was well, rather fit up close. She was about his height with her raven hair coming back to the end of her neck. With her purple sleeveless cheongsam and sandals, she was an Eastern beauty.
"There was a bit of nervousness in that request." Taeko thought.
"Of course, I'll show you around!" Sebastian said excitedly before calming down. "You'll find our town quite interesting."
He took her and led her off wanting to show her around with Taeko inwardly wishing him in. He just hoped her brother did not find out.
"I'll just have to train Sebastian to kick his ass." Taeko thought before heading into town.
He arrived back in town as his stomach rumbled wanting food and he lumbered for the Saloon.
"Taeko, my boy." Gus said kindly. "What can I do for you?"
"Lunch, please. I'm feeling hungry, but first…I'd like to buy all your recipes you have sale. The ones I didn't buy." Taeko mused as Gus was surprised.
"That'll be what…5,950 Gold." Cosette said as Taeko paid for it. "Here's the scrolls."
The moment they ended up in his hands, they went up in blue flames that his body absorbed which Cosette, Emily, and Gus narrowly miss.
[You have learned the following recipes: [Omlet, Tortilla, Pizza, Maki Roll, Triple Shot Epresso, Cookies]]
"Now about today's special?" Taeko asked.
"It's [Pepper Poppers] with a side of barbeque chicken. Marnie's got a bit an overpopulation of chicken, so she's selling some for meat. Figured you'd want to know…cheaper and fresher than Joja." Emily said kindly.
"I'll take it and a soda. And please get something for the pets." Taeko said paying up the gold.
He got up to jukebox to pick out a song before choosing one.
[Jukebox BGM Cues: Vela-Nova – Sonic Rush OST]
He sat back at the counter as his plate was put in of him. Emily came around to put a plate of chicken for Logan and fish for Tom as all ate heartily.
"So, Taeko, how's progress on the farm?" Gus mused.
"Decent at the moment. I actually came into possession of a large amount of cheeries, so I'll be making cherry wine for a long while." Taeko remarked.
"Good to hear, I could always use more of your product. I've been meaning to order a few bottles. How many kegs you have?" Gus asked, only getting a response of six. "Just six? I'll have to order just two bottles then."
It was after some thought Taeko realized he neglected two things, one was his henhouse and the other was building a [Mayonnaise Machine]. He got out his phone and made a call to Grant house only to get Demetrius.
"Can you please patch me through to Robin?" Taeko asked. "No, this isn't about Maru? It's a business call."
He could hear Robin shoving her husband out of the way to answer.
"Yes, I'd like to make an order for 500 pieces of wood and stone each. Also want most of those supplies to go to a Big Shed. Yes, I am aware you need fifty more pieces of wood, I have them at home which I'll give to you right away when you start construction. So, how much do I owe you? 35,000? That's fine, I can pay for it. You'll meet me at my farm to select where to place it and payment, perfect. Goodbye now." Taeko said before hanging up.
Taeko hurriedly wolfed down his food, downed the soda, and thanked for the meal before leaving.
"You two, once you're both done, meet up at home." Taeko said ruffling his pets' fur.
Taeko jogged back home finding Robin and Demetrius there to which he handed Robin the needed wood and the 35,000 Gold to pay for expenses.
"Taeko, I mighty appreciate your patronage." Robin said thankful. "You've basically given me a quarter of what I make per year. Where do you want it built?"
Taeko settled to have it next to the ruined Greenhouse after chopping out the trees near it along with the stumps.
"You know, if you're interested in adding more to your land. I have this new product in building a fishpond for you to raise and breed fish." Robin mused.
"What do I need and how much?" Taeko asked.
"200 Stone and five pieces of green algae and seaweed to make the floor." Robin said chipperly. "All for 5,000."
"I'll consider it, but not today." Taeko said as Robin got to work. "Demetrius, normally I'd be up about being on my farm, but I'll make an exception for you to help Robin. No studying my farm, you help work."
Demetrius inwardly whined, but he outwardly nodded getting to work with Robin. Taeko entered his farm cave to pick the fruits and mushrooms. He found several [Purple Mushrooms] and [Peaches] left by the bats. He wound up putting a peach in a keg while putting cherries in the others keg except the last one to which he put a pepper in surprised it counted as fruit to make wine by the game. He shoved the rest of the peaches and the mushrooms in the fridge. Next was the coop, and as he walked towards it, he overheard the Grant couple talking about how it was [Salmonberry] season. The game let him know that it was salmonberry season for yesterday, today, tomorrow, and the day after.
"I'll be on the hunt for it, especially to make up for yesterday." Taeko said ensuring he made three [Mayonnaise Makers].
He entered the coop as Rei, Reiju, and Rojo clucked coming up to Taeko. The dinosaur egg was in the incubator with the game saying it needed nine more days before it could hatch. He filled up the feeder with hay and gathered the eggs while checking their status.
[Chicken – Reiju – Heart Rating: 5/5 – Taeko's first chicken. She's spunky and likes the outdoors in the daytime. (At five hearts, she will now lay Large Brown Eggs)]
[Chicken – Rei – Heart Rating: 3/5 – Taeko's second chicken. She's quiet and is a bit owlish in the daytime.]
[Chicken – Rojo – Heart Rating: 2/5 – Taeko's third chicken. She's mischievous and likes pecking strangers in the outdoors in the daytime.]
"Three large browns, five browns, and six white ones. I'll be making [Mayo] today!" Taeko said excitedly as he ushered the chickens outside for some sun.
Rojo ran up to Demetrius before pecking him repeatedly and running back.
"Sorry man, Rojo's got a temper." Taeko said feigning sympathy.
Taeko entered the farmhouse putting the three Mayo Makers down before putting them each one large egg each before putting the rest of the eggs in the fridge. He put his haul of the cherries and peppers in there as there was no need to carry all in the [Inventory].
"Ok, I think I'll pay Marnie that visit. I could use chicken to eat. I've rather tire of fish all the time." Taeko remarked leaving the farmhouse just as his pets caught up to him. "Ignore Demetrius if he's working with Robin, Logan. If he strays, remind him to get back to work."
Logan yipped while staying behind as Taeko and Tom were off to Marnie's.
[Cindersap Forest BGM: Pokémon Heartgold/Soulsilver OST: Viridian Forest]
Taeko took his time to saunter into through the wood gathering up what he could forage. He made sure to plant the acorns and pinecones he had. Thanks to his perks, he and Tom amassed 100 Salmonberries among the usual forageables.
[Forageable – Salmonberry – A spring-time berry with the flavor of the forest. Only found during Salmonberry Season (Spring 15-18) | Silver Quality (+35 Energy/+15 Health) (Can be sold for 6 Gold (Silver) Buffs: None]
Of course, his efforts were not unnoticed by the game thanks to his exploit.
[You leveled up in foraging, you are now on Foraging Level 8! +2 Axe Proficiency gained and +1 to Wild Berry Harvesting. Crafting Recipes gained: [Wild Seeds [Winter], Warp Totem: Mountains, Tree Fertilizer, and Warp Totem: Farm]]
"I love RPGs." Taeko thought as he came into Marnie's ranch.
"Well, if it isn't the Mighty Morphin' Maelstrom…" Marnie said as Taeko rolled his eyes. "What? Too old…"
"Not exactly, but I wasn't a Power Rangers fan. Plus, in my childhood, it was SPD, Ninja Strom, and Mystic Force out at the time." Taeko lampooned.
"Well excuse me princess for flubbing a reference." Marnie said sarcastically. "What can I get you?"
"Meat. I heard you were extra thick." Taeko sniped.
"I'll have you know that my body is a pillar of strength." Marnie teased flexing a bit. "I still got it."
"I'm aware, but I'm really here for the chicken meat you have on sale." Taeko remarked as Marnie got one out of the cooler.
[Raw Whole Chicken – Food Item – The meat's that a treat to most meat-eaters. Good for cooking in various ways! You can't eat it raw though. It can be cut up to have its pieces used in other recipes. [Healing Properties: -130 Health] Sell Price: 250 Gold]
Taeko asked how much, and she told him 300 Gold.
"I'll take 20." Taeko remarked putting down 6,000 Gold.
Marine gladly handed over the chilled raw chicken in a Styrofoam cooler for him saying he could keep the cooler. Taeko thanked her before hauling it home to put it in the freezer. He shoved the forage (save for the sap) in the fridge or storage before deciding to pay the community board a visit.
[Pelican Town BGM: Pokémon Diamond/Pearl/Platinum – Eterna City]
Humming Eterna City's theme, he came up to the message board to check for jobs.
[Item Delivery 04]
Good day, townsfolk. A paste of Leek makes a wonderful tonic to clear up skin, if someone could get me two, I could put it to good use. - Harvey
Get Harvey a pair of Leeks!
Reward: 300g on delivery, Harvey will be thankful (+150 Friendship Points)
Quest Failure: Nothing.
You got two days.
[Accept This Quest?]
[Monster Slaying 01]
Those damned duggys are stirring up trouble! They've been attacking gardens here and around the valley. Apparently, they've stolen food from JojaMart. Please, if ten are slain, I will reward well! – Mayor Lewis
Slay 10 Duggys!
Reward: 400g
Quest Failure: Nothing.
You got two days.
[Accept This Quest?]
[Item Delivery 05]
I need half a dozen cookies for a desert I'm making, Love Emily
Get Emily six Cookies!
Reward: 150g on delivery, Emily will be thankful (+150 Friendship Points)
Quest Failure: Nothing.
You got two days.
[Accept This Quest?]
[Item Delivery 06]
FOR GIRLS ONLY: psst…I need a Cave Carrot. You know what it's for? Keep it secret!
Get Haley a Cave Carrot!
Reward: 75g on delivery, Haley will be pleasured! (+50 Friendship Points)
Quest Failure: Nothing.
You got two days.
[Accept This Quest?]
[Item Delivery 07]
I am looking for Onion Bread to eat in front of the TV, Sandy.
Get Sandy Onion Bread!
Reward: 240g on delivery, Sandy will be thankful (+150 Friendship Points)
Quest Failure: Nothing.
You got two days.
[Accept This Quest?]
He accepted all five and the monster slaying one was declared done with Taeko being told via text box that Lewis would mail him the gold. With his fifth Help Wanted quest done, he called for Tom telling him to go get a pair of Leeks and he ran off with Logan off to assist. He entered Pierre's to see the man himself on his phone.
"Taeko, glad to always see my favorite customer. What can I do for you?" Pierre asked. "We now sell frozen products."
"Neat. I'll take fifteen of your [Wheat Flour] and [Sugar]. Eight bags of [Rice]. Five [Kale Seeds] packets and Deluxe Speed-Gro." Taeko rattled off before noticing the bouquet.
The game had warned him not to get that until Abigail, Maru, and Penny were also at eight hearts which he shrugged off for now.
"Big purchase…about 4,800. I'd discount you, but I can't." Pierre said as Taeko produced two diamonds. "I…I can knock off 1,500."
"C'mon Pierre, cut it even. 1,800 off?" Taeko requested.
"You get any other jewels?" Pierre asked.
"Aquamarine?" Taeko said putting it on the counter.
"Fine, 3,000 and the jewels." Pierre said taking the jewels while Taeko took the groceries.
Leaving the general store, Tom came up several Leeks which Taeko took up while walking in the clinic.
"Taeko, what can I do for you?" Maru said sweetly.
"I'm here for Harvey, I got a delivery for him. His Leeks." Taeko said as Maru got the doctor down. "Hey, Doc Ovid, I got your leeks for you."
"Excellent." Harvey said excitedly. "You got me half of a dozen, though."
"I won't ask for extra. Consider it a bonus, we're friends after all. All in this town together…you could take it out of my next medical bill."
"Ha!" Harvey said chuckling. "Only you. Well, here's your pay and my gratitude."
[You have completed your sixth Help Wanted quest! Your friendship with Harvey has hit two hearts, go pay the Mullner's a visit in the future to see his 2-Heart Scene.]
"One more thing, do you make coffee with your kegs as well?" Harvey asked.
"I don't have coffee beans to grow sadly." Taeko remarked.
"I think I have some laying around in the office." Harvey said going back up to his office. "Aw yes, here. It's the six seeds I won in a poker game last year at the Night Market. Never did find a use for them, better in your hands."
[Observe] kicked in.
[Coffee Bean – Plant in spring or summer to grow a coffee plant. Place five beans in a keg to make coffee. Takes 10 days to mature, will regrow every two days. (Can be sold for 15 Gold)]
"Hello, new moneymaker!" Taeko thought before thanking Harvey.
He needed it for home using all his white eggs in his fridge to help in making that half dozen cookies before putting the rest of the groceries in the fridge (except the seeds and the fertilizer). He ran to his farm with a war cry and his hoe! He checked his farm to realize he had only eleven slots left before his crop space was full. Taeko promptly used an energy blast to blow up the end of the fence to dig two new columns before replacing the fence with a [Stone Fence] using the remains of the wood to make the gates. Now with that done, he used his [Deluxe Speed-Gro] on the fifth column while planting the coffee beans in the soil. Using the sap on him, he crafted eleven bags of fertilizer to plant the kale and some of the wild seeds in those eleven slots to fill up the four columns.
[Your farming level has risen to four! Crafting Recipes Unlocked: Preserves Jar, Basic Retaining Soil, and Iron Fence]
The preserves jar was something he wanted, and he bought 100 pieces of wood of Robin to which her husband had carried the sack of wood to his house much to his glee. Gathering the needed materials, he crafted two [Preserves Jars].
[Preserves Jar – Turns vegetables into pickles and fruit into jelly. Also turns fish eggs to caviar or roe.]
He shoved a hot pepper into one and an ancient fruit into the other before ensuring he put all the food items he had on person in the fridge except the cookies before he checked the time.
"Five already?" Taeko thought before cooking up the onion bread. "I need to step on it."
Taeko got the bread gone putting it in his [Inventory] before running down the door again speeding to the Saloon to find Ling Shan and Sebastian talking.
"We were just talking about you." Ling Shan said as Taeko noticed Sebastian was wearing his Hachiman. "Mr. Kumicho."
"Sebastian? Considering the company Ling Shan, maybe showing your yakuza ties on the first date isn't a bright move." Taeko snarked. "And Ling, we'll talk later."
Taeko zipped over to Emily to deliver her cookies that were freshly made.
"These smell so good." Emily said pleased. "And you even went so far to make them yourself. That deserves double pay."
[You've completed your seventh Help Wanted quest. +300 Gold]
300 Gold richer, Taeko left the Saloon for the Umbra home making sure to have the cave carrot before entering.
"Haley." Taeko said sweetly.
"Taeko, I was just about to put something up on the help wanted board. I really could use some jewels." Haley said as Taeko raised the cave carrot. "What?"
Haley was told the job she put up on the board already as she blushed crimson.
"I may have been a bit…intoxicated when writing that." Haley said as Taeko snarked. "Explains the crap pay and messy handwriting. Lucky, I understood it."
"All right, I'll take it." Haley said taking it. "Emily can cook it."
"Aw, no need for its use." Taeko teased as Haley paid him the meager reward money.
[You've completed your eighth Help Wanted Quest!]
"Now when I have a handsome farmer in front of me." Haley said sliding her finger on his armored chest. "One who's brave enough to go down into the mines for treasures. The offer is still open, daddy."
"Aren't you supposed to be on Alex's shoulder or something?" Taeko said in a quieter tone as she wrapped her arms around him.
"Now now, this is business." Haley said with a hint of seduction. "And we're not together…haven't been together a year or two."
"Ok, I want a striptease and a lap dance." Taeko said as Haley balked. "And there's an aquamarine and an emerald in it for you."
"Put them on table." Haley remarked as Taeko did so. "The glitter…it's the real deal. Did you carry them on you the whole time?"
"Let's just say I came into possession, and I'm in the mood for being giving." Taeko said with a faux sweet grin.
"Well, a deal is a deal." Haley said to take the jewels before locking the door. "Follow me to my parent's room."
Taeko followed putting his swords in the umbrella rack on the way. What he did not expect was Mama Umbra to have a stripper pole in her room.
"A stripper pole?" Taeko said sheepishly.
"Mom did pole dancing as a hobby…" Haley said before Taeko took a seat. "So, get comfy."
Haley put on some music and got to work.
[Cues: Kevin MacLeod – Spy Glass]
Taeko was pleasantly surprised to get a rather decent dance as Haley was giving it a bit of effort.
"I hadn't expected to be so brazen off the bat. Although, him seeing me nude is a small price to pay." Haley thought. "He's certainly paying me attention."
Off came the dress, leaving Haley in those her frilly white underwear. Taeko could not help but think about Emily for a second wondering if she could work a pole. The music perfectly set the mood and Haley truly owned the pole.
"You know, Haley. I did call you a bit of a cliché, but a good one." Taeko said eyeing her up.
Haley was picturesque in her way being from those high-school movies and teen drama having that blonde hair and flawless skin. Taeko wished he had asked if she was a cheerleader but her bra landing on his head with the music changing was perfect.
[Cues: Kevin MacLeod – Lord of the Land]
For all his sarcasm, he did enjoy the sight of Haley dancing closer to him wagging her pert parts around. For one, he was glad he had the loving moment with Abigail as it kept him in control. Haley was not getting a rise out of him tonight, well not an obvious one. Haley sweated a bit before getting a devious look as she sat on his lap.
"Good enough, Taeko, dear?" Haley said sweetly.
"Worth it, Haley. But you didn't take off your panties, but I will not complain about it too much." Taeko said as Haley got up sliding off her panties.
She tossed her underwear to him before turning to face him and saying he could keep them.
"It was kind of fun to do this…" Haley said letting the mask of haughty slip for a second.
Taeko had taken a good look at Haley's body as he left. A younger him would have gone for it, and he had to admit that in his thoughts. He was still happier for what he had gone for.
[Music Ends]
Taeko, out of sight, took a whiff of Haley's bra and smelled sunflowers. He put it away, and the panties vanished into blue light.
[Panties collected: 8/11]
"All who's left is Caroline, Maru, and Emily." Taeko thought looking over Emily's room. "Eh. May as well. Wait, what about Marnie?"
[It has seemed you'd either acknowledged an error or you cannot count. However, the code will be relooked at. ….It's both on fault on us and you, we did not count Marine's, but it is still 11.]
"I needed not the dickishness." Taeko thought waving the text box away.
He slipped into her room and found a pair letting it vanish as he left the house.
[Panties collected: 9/11]
Now, he had one last job for the day, and he decided to head back to the Saloon. Shane was were having his one beer, looking thoughtful as more of the townsfolk had gathered as a bit of a welcoming party for Ling.
"Hey, Taeko. Have you seen Haley?" Emily asked.
"Yes, but I can't stay for long. I got one more job." Taeko said putting some gold down. "A pizza for my friend, Shane."
"Taeko, what's your last job?" Shane asked.
"I'm heading out to the desert to deliver something." Taeko remarked as Shane asked for the pizza to go. "You want to ride along?"
"May as well." Shane said taking his food to-go. "We can talk."
Not before long, Taeko was driving to the desert in the G35 much to Shane's surprise.
"Figured you'd drive the hovercar." Shane said as Taeko chuckled.
"I wanted to, but it's late. I don't know if it'll rain." Taeko admitted. "So, about what you want to talk about?"
"Your offer? I…I still can't believe you up and thought of me to join your group. I feel I don't really contribute. Not like your "students" do." Shane admitted through bites of his pizza.
"Shane, you're good moral support. In what we're doing, I need a blunt straight man, and you are the straight guy in the face of all the oddity. Plus, a Yakuza doesn't just have fighters in it. Plus, I wanted to help your income, so you don't have to completely rely on Joja. I can see a bit of myself in you….though my time wasn't as bad." Taeko ventured.
"Was it completely soul-crushing at Joja?" Shane asked.
"At first, no. Over time, they kept slowly giving less and less fucks as I climbed the ladder. At one point, I couldn't advance, and they stuck me in that hell." Taeko admitted. "And I took it as long as I had access to an arcade to escape. I never truly got to enjoy the city. I didn't realize that it was so crime ridden. Freaky…"
"It's like we shut the world off." Shane said as both of them had a haunted look on their face. "Dear Yoba…"
[Your moment of solidarity has given Shane a bit of clarity plus a loved gift! Friendship raised to four hearts! Visit the ranch for an alternate 4 Heart Scene.]
"We're here." Taeko said pulling in the only store in the desert.
They got out as Taeko noticed a set up being formed but decided not to bother about it. Entering the shop, Sandy was at the counter where Taeko presented his Onion Bread.
"Just perfect, it's about time for dinner." Sandy said excitedly before ushering them both out to close up shop.
She did pay Taeko for his job leading to the game saying he completed his ninth Help Wanted quest. Shane confessed to Taeko a few things, the first one getting a laugh.
"So, you're robbing Joja too?" Taeko said as Shane raised an eyebrow. "But on a second note, you made Spanish Fly for chickens."
"Accidentally. I've been experimenting using the money I usually spend on my saloon crawls to work on this under everyone's noses. Jas mixed my experiment vitamin in the feed by accident…and I haven't told Marnie." Shane said nervously. "I'm a bit afraid to."
"You should because if she thinks it's the feed, JojaMart could try to upsell her crap feed." Taeko mused as they got back in the car. "If you can cause a sudden surge of chickens, Marnie could add a full butchery to her ranch. And that's something you and I could invest in with her to make a decent profit."
Shane looked at Taeko like he had grown a second head and had spouted golden eggs.
"Taeko, that's a great idea, but Marnie can't handle the meat by herself." Shane said thoughtfully. "Unless we take the extra to someone we can. Butchers in Zuzu."
"Now, you're thinking!" Taeko remarked. "And I got the means to find them."
"Taeko, I'll considering your offer, and I'll tell Marnie about it tonight." Shane said as Taeko drove them both back to town.
As Taeko rolled into the garage, Shane was thankful before heading home telling him he'd call tomorrow concerning Marnie's proposal and how it would cost to get the groundwork started. Taeko came out before closing his garage. He decided he was done for the day, but he remembered the panty quest.
"It's not nine yet." Taeko said checking the time.
He went over to the general store seeing Caroline on the second-floor balcony looking content with her tea. Taeko inadvertently triggered a heart scene as Caroline looked down to see him.
"I've been thinking you're avoiding me." Caroline firmly said.
"No, I've been busy." Taeko said honestly.
"Fooling around with my daughter?" Caroline said with a raised eyebrow only to get Taeko to clear his throat. "Then again, it's only been three weeks."
Taeko took a breath and leaped up landing perch on the railing on the balcony.
"Try not to scape my railing with your swords." Caroline said not even fazed as Taeko come down. "But I am glad you're here. Follow me."
Caroline was led inside to a "private" sunroom which was full of tea leaves and plants.
"Thanks to you training Abigail, we have a bit more money to invest and I got the sunroom I've always wanted. I know I gave you a hard time considering Abigail, but I am glad she's happy pursuing her dreams." Caroline said brewing two cups of tea. "Thank you both."
"Of course, this place looks lovely." Taeko said taking a cup downing the tea. "Green tea isn't my thing. Red Zinger's more my place. But this was great."
"Feel free to visit this room to relax, but just don't let me catch you fooling around with Abby in here." Caroline said half-teasing. "Oh, come now, you do see her as attractive, no? I do feel your eyes looking at me just a bit. It's quite refreshing to have such a virile young man sizing me up."
Taeko was red-faced as Caroline was laughing at his embarrassment. He put his empty glass down and hurried out as Caroline burst out laughing.
"Still got it." Caroline thought to herself. "I wonder though…if he and Abigail have fooled around."
Taeko managed to snag a striped pair of Caroline's panties on his way out bringing him up to ten. Maru was left, and he wondered if he could just ask for a pair of her's. He trotted over to Saloon realizing he could give Ling Shan a gift as the least.
"Here, my way of welcoming you to the valley." Taeko said giving her the Mint Tunic. "A peace offering of sorts."
"Thanks, mint's not my best color, but I appreciate the gesture." Ling said as both knew they needed to have more words tonight. "Sebastian, care to walk me home?"
"Sure." Sebastian said as Taeko noticed two Triads guys in suits also leaving. "Oh, Taeko. Don't worry about them, they just delivered Ling's car."
"Just making sure." Taeko said as one of the suits remarked that Woozie sends his regards. "Tell him, I wish the same."
Taeko came up to find Maru and triggered two heart scenes. First, with Maru and her telescope as she was peering into the stars. She had asked what he saw when he took a look and was given an option.
"I spy a beautiful planet." Taeko said sweetly. "Lovely shade of brown."
"You're supposed to be eyeing the planet." Maru playfully snarked.
[+30 Friendship Points gained.]
"But it's the trouble of being human, so many limits." Maru said before turning to Taeko. "Come in, I could use your help."
Taeko followed her inside to Maru's room where she asked for the weapon, she had built him. The [Magnetic Field Generator Mk.1] was returned to its creator as she revealed she was working on improving and building a new weapon. Taeko was given a prototype to test as she explained it was supposed to repel foes with electricity. However, it just zapped him costing him a few drops of health before the device exploded on him costing him more health. At least, his jacket was not ruined, he thought even if he was smoking.
"Oh jeez, are you even all right?" Maru said in a panic.
"Its fine, it's nothing I couldn't take. Didn't even hurt." Taeko said gaining thirty more friendship points.
"Oh no, you don't. Take off your armor and jacket, doctor's orders." Maru said firmly.
Taeko did not protest taking them off, putting them aside and taking a seat as Maru got the burn cream while having her nurse cap on her head. She began rubbing the burn cream on him right when Demetrius walked in the room.
"Dad, I'm in the middle of treating Taeko's wounds. Could you please leave me to finish?" Maru said politely.
"But…"
"Demetrius, Maru was in the midst of showing me one of her new inventions which exploded in my face." Taeko explained.
Demetrius looked around noticing the telltales and cleared his throat apologizing before closing the door. Maru sighed.
"Ruined the moment." Maru muttered before saying, "Well, you're all patched up."
Taeko put back on his armor and jacket before Maru gently pulled him into a kiss, once that yearned to last longer.
"I wish my dad didn't ruin it, but I have an idea." Maru said before tossing him a lump of cloth whispering, "Think of me when you rub one out."
Taeko could only nod before leaving, realizing that the lump of cloth was her underwear which also vanished much to his ire.
[Panties collected! 11/11]
[Mini-Quest Complete: Panty Raid]
Collect the panties of all the women of Stardew Valley and gain a special prize from Kyu! Women must be over the age of 16!
[Bonus Achievements]
Panties stolen: 9 [200 Gold * 9 = 1800]
Panties given: 2 [2000 Gold * 2 = 4000]
[5,800 Gold will be awarded to you now, and your prize will be given to you before bed.]
"Swank." Taeko said returning home.
As he left, Maru realized she had forgotten to tell him something, but she figured she would just text him.
-MoS-
Sebastian and Ling sat at the ends of the docks near her boat as they looked up to the night sky.
"So, what do you think of the valley?" Sebastian asked.
"It's certainly not so boring. Surprised of the existences of actual beasts." Ling remarked. "Must be exciting."
"It is. Especially, thanks to Abigail getting me and Maru licensed." Sebastian said looking down at his new license. "Man, Taeko's going to be glad to have more backup."
"Honestly, I'm kind of curious to see what monsters you fight. Shooting up other people has become routine, and I want to see what I can learn. Monster hunting sounds a bit more than working in the fish shack." Ling said as Sebastian chuckled.
"Well, I could talk to Taeko about getting you down there to join the fight." Sebastian explained. "You get his and Abigail's approval, and a license is yours. Both got clout."
"I'll think on it, but thanks for spending the day with me. It was nice to do that…without Xin getting in the day." Ling said sheepishly before entering her boat. "Good night, Sebastian."
Sebastian waved her goodbye as he left for home. Ling had a lot to think about, among them was Sebastian. He clearly was interested, and she would admit that was a mutual feeling. Considering she grew up in the Triad, there was a rather limited pool of dateable options. Add her brother to the mix, she had to deal with the little brother constantly wanting to prove himself by viciously beating on any guy showing interest. It made for, despite being a Triad, to be rather lonely. However, she was in a place where her Triad status did not really matter, and her brother was oceans away. She could live normally for the time being and that was a rather pleasing thought.
"Besides, I can empty all the bullets I want in some monsters." Ling said to herself looking at her arsenal of weapons with glee.
-MoS-
A tried Taeko lumbered into bed only to find Kyu waiting for him.
"You've been busy." Kyu said as Taeko yawned. "Don't worry, I won't be long. Congrats on completing my challenge. You did well."
"What about my prize?" Taeko asked.
"Ok, I didn't exactly have a prize in mind. Don't give me that look, I do have an idea, but it's not ready. So, to compensate, how about I have that shed completed, a few more kegs, and a few preserve jars to compensate?" Kyu asked.
"How long will it to get my actual prize?" Taeko asked.
"Friday." Kyu said hopefully.
"Ok, speed up the incubation of my dinosaur egg, move all my kegs, mayo machines, and preserve jars to the shed. Then we have gas." Taeko said as Kyu snapped her fingers. "Thank you."
"It's fine. I did screw it up, but I have a good reason." Kyu said revealing a baby bump. "Tora and I are going to be parents."
Taeko fell out of bed laughing only to see Kyu look nervous about it.
"I'm sure you and Tora will make for great parents." Taeko said trying to be serious.
Kyu rolled her eyes and stated that they are aware Taeko hit pass the 100,000 goal in farm profits. With that, Kyu told him he would get that prize at the end of the year as promised before leaving. Taeko got up and went to the now completed shed to Kyu kept her word.
"Ok, Kyu doubled my kegs and preserves jars." Taeko said organizing the room to have some order. "I'll have to buy some windows for this place later."
Taeko put in a yam and five salmonberries in the kegs. As for the two empty preserve jars, he put in the last two peaches before moving to the coop. The tiny green dinosaur let out a yip as Taeko petted his leathery skin.
[Dinosaur – Moshi – Heart Rating: 0/5 – Taeko's first dinosaur. Wants to just lay out in the sun and sleep deep in the night.]
Moshi lumbered off before falling asleep to which Taeko put a duck egg in the incubator. With all said and gone, Taeko was finally able to head to the selling bin. Tossed in 6 Diamonds, 10 Rubies, and four Aquamarines before storing everything else. WHUMP! Taeko was so glad for his bed, at least. It was a long day finally behind him, and there was one ahead.
"Crap." Taeko mumbled getting out of bed to grab the 400 Gold out from the mailbox.
He did not even read the letter as he fell back into bed.
[STATS]
Taeko Kiba Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer/Kumicho
Age: 20 years
HP: 870/870
Energy: 769/769
Overall Level: Granger
Farming Skill Level: 4
Mining Skill Level: 5
Foraging Skill Level: 8
Fishing Skill Level: 4
Combat Skill Level: 10
Gold: 953389
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. Pushing ahead, he's formed the mysterious syncidate, Stardew Shadows, to further his business with his own gang of yakuza. Among his favorite foods are pepperoni pizza and pancakes. 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 noticed)
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%)
Subatomic Shirt– Body (Equip Item) - Particle physics joins forces with modern tech style in this tailored body armor. (FusionFall collectible) (Defense +4)
Gamma Blacklight Pants – Legs (Equip Item) - Dark with subtle green glow, these pants are built for the stealthy soldier. (FusionFall collectible) (+3 Defense) (Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)
Omnitrix Kicks – Feet (Equip Item) - They may not allow for alien transformations, but these shoes offer plenty of support on the battlefield! (FusionFall collectible) (+1 Defense, +1 Speed)
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 – 5/10 Hearts – 1250 Friendship Points
Pam – 3/10 Hearts – 750 Friendship Points
Lewis – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 Friendship Points
Pierre – 2.4/10 Hearts – 600 Friendship Points
Robin – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 Friendship Points
Abigail – 7/10 Hearts – 1750 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 – 2/10 Hearts – 500 Friendship Points
Maru – 8/10 Hearts – 2060 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 – 2.2/10 Hearts – 550 Friendship Points
Emily – 3.1/10 – 760 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 – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 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 – 4/10 Hearts – 1000 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: 2/5)
Row 2) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 3) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 4) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 5) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 6) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 7) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 8) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 9) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 10) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 11) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
Row 12) Rice (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 2/5)
[Column 2]
Row 1) Rice (Days in the Soil: 1/8)
Row 2) Rice (Days in the Soil: 1/8)
Row 3) Rice (Days in the Soil: 1/8)
Row 4) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 5) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 9) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 18/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 10) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 11) Beans (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 16/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 12) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
[Column 3]
Row 1) Beans (Basic Retaining Soil) (Days in the Soil: 16/10) (Will Produce More Every 3 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 2) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 7/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 3) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 15/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after it's Fully Grown)
Row 4) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 7/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 5) Beans (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 16/9) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 8/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 6/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 7/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 9) Ancient Fruit (Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 1/25) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 10) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 11) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 12) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
[Column 4]
Row 1) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 2) Kale (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/6)
Row 3) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/7)
Row 4) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/7)
Row 5) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/7)
Row 6) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 36/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 7) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 36/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 8) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 36/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 9) Ancient Fruit (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 36/28) (Will Produce More Every 7 Days after its Fully Grown)
Row 10) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/7)
Row 11) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/7)
Row 12) Spring Seeds [SP] (Basic Fertilizer) (Days in the Soil: 0/7)
[Column 5]
Row 1) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 2) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 3) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 4) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
Row 5) Coffee Bean (Deluxe Speed-Gro) (Days in the Soil: 0/7) (Will Produce More Every 2 Days)
[Column 6]
[Empty]
(Day 16 Total Profits: 14,835)
(Shadow Farm's Total Profits (This adds all the money made by the end of each day): 1,124,657 Gold)
[Status of the Pets]
Logan Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer's Dog/Battle Pet
Class: Fighter (Warrior)
Level: 14
EXP: 93/125
Age: 1 Year (in Dog Years)
HP: 325/325
MP: 475/475
[Perks/Traits]
Active - These dogs are very energetic. They really like running and enjoy frequent walks. (Allows them to regain lost health easily)
Hunter - These dogs are natural hunters. Send them off into the world and they'll hunt and dig for things. (Current Level: Artful Hunter (4))
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]
Iron Jaws - The user lets a wicked bite that's as hard as iron. This may also lower the target's Defense. (Power : 80)
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)
Hyper Voice - The user lets loose a horribly echoing shout with the power to inflict damage. (Power: 90) (This move costs 50 MP)
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: 24
Defense: 19
Dexterity: 17
Intelligence: 16
Charisma: 16
Wisdom: 16
[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%)
Nemetrix Dissidia – (Pet Equip Item) – Joja's attempt at replicating alien technology to which they succeeded. This device, when put on an animal (preferably a canine or a feline) allows them to transform into the various Final Fantasy beasts. Voice contr control and/or the animal themselves can will it. [Available Transformations: Lesser Lopros, Killer Mantis, Silver Lobo, Chimera]
-x-
Tom Maelstrom
Occupation: Farmer's Cat/Battle Pet
Class: Thief (Ninja)
Level: 13
EXP: 74/156
Age: 1 Cat Year (15 Human Years)
HP: 360/360
MP: 396/396
[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)
Icy Wind - The user lets out a freezing wind. This may also lower the target's Speed. (Power: 55) (This move costs 10 MP)
Shadow Strike - The user extends its shadow and attacks the foe from behind. This move always goes first. (Power: 40) (This move costs 20 MP)
[Stats]
Strength: 17
Defense: 17
Dexterity: 17
Intelligence: 16
Charisma: 18
Wisdom: 16
[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]
….
[Base Game Achievements Completed: Greenhorn (Earn 15,000), Cowpoke (Earn 50,000G), Homesteader (Earn 250,000G), Millionaire (Earn 1,000,000G), A New Friend (Reach a Five-Heart Friend with Someone), Cliques (Reach a 5-heart friend level with 4 people), DIY (Craft 15 Items)]
….
[GAME SAVED!]
(A/N: This one was a long one to write, and it probably is my longest chapter. So much content jammed into it. Ling Shan's new to town, and she'd be handled differently compared to other villagers. As for achievements above, those are from the canon game, but I nixed two of them being the house upgrade (which he got in the beginning so it wouldn't be fair) and the best friend one (being that Leah was already his best friend). As for the matter of the prizes for it, the hats will be there. But you, the reader, can decide can help decide the secondary prize. I'll leave to a vote to where the options are:
+350 to both HP and Energy or +14 Stat Points to Spend on Both Pets
You let me know in the reviews. Moving on, as for Shane and Taeko's plans, any GTA player (namely San Andreas ones) will have an inkling of what I have planned for investing in businesses. Shane and Taeko's little moment were rather interesting to write as they have some good chemistry. Now for the rest of week (future chapters), I want to shift a bit of focus to other characters, namely Elliot, Willy, Jodi, Sam, and a few others. Elliot's barely been in the story…I almost keep forgetting him. Willy, I can give focus thanks to Ling. Jodi and Sam has also barely been in the story as well and considering Sam's a friend to both Abigail and Sebastian, it's unfair. I really want to ensure Taeko takes time with all the villagers. With access to the desert a thing, Taeko can do see Sandy whenever. Look forward to the next chapter! )
(Remastered A/N: This chapter was a shitshow in the spelling department. That was unacceptable. So many errors and such, and I'm kicking myself for not fixing it sooner.)