The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Spring)
Chapter 35 – A Last Update before the Finale [Part 1]
Friday, the 27th of Spring, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
[LOAD GAME]
…
[Updates detected! GAME PAUSED. LOAD VOID.]
"Here again…hey Kyu, what's new?" Taeko said floating in a void.
"Anyway, [Fast Travel] system is fixed, but I altered the rule. You can only FT to one location in each zone. Your farm is your FT spot for the Valley, your HQ for Zuzu City, and the Grapeseed safehouse for Red County. To compliment this, you can get a Taxi to get moved around for a small fee, but that's limited to around the city…for now. The Glamour Slam is ready, characters have been imported, new content, and adjustments were made." Kyu said as Taeko looked through the changelog. "GTAZ patch was updated."
"I can find dungeons to explore in Red County now…"
"Also, to commend your progress. XanTech will now sell some items from the Xenoverse games. New clothes, new modes of transport, and accessories." Kyu said as Taeko got excited. "Oh, and one last thing…this wasn't in the changelog."
Before Taeko could asked, Kyu's body and wings glowed pink before blasting him with a pink blast leaving Taeko falling into the void.
[Updates complete, MoSV is now updated. RETURNING TO GAME…]
[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]
Taeko groaned before waking up. He noticed Velma was in the room making coffee from the [Coffee Maker].
"Damn Kyu, what did you do to me?" He thought before Velma noticed he woke up.
"Morning…I made [Triple Shot Expresso]." Velma said before noticing a pointed detail. "Oh, someone must have a good dream. Kyu's hand, I presume."
Taeko looked down to see morning wood that strained against his briefs and Taeko's eye twitched. Kyu clearly did something to his junk considering he felt really warm. Velma put the coffee and came up to his bed using [Observe].
"I think she upped its size a bit, even increased your health and energy." Velma said as Taeko bought his Status.
[Taeko Kiba Maelstrom | Current HP: 970/1270 Current Energy: 900/1200]
Knowing Kyu, she had paths and quests she wanted him to try out, or probably this was her way of saying go get laid more. Not that he was not able to before. He looked at his assistant and pulled up the options menu. He was idly looking through it while Velma gave him a bit of a dirty look.
"I see I unlocked an outfit aside from the one Kyu give you." Taeko said interested only to be disappointed. "Oh, it's just your classic outfit."
Velma rolled her eyes and brought the coffee over to the nightstand. She put them down and attended to her boss using one of her hands to give him a rub after freeing the flagpole.
"Just relax. I'm only using my hand because I don't really want the taste of seminal fluid in my coffee." Velma said stroking it a bit faster. "And we both can't spend the whole morning getting our rocks off."
"Our?" Taeko asked.
"Taeko, trust me…I want to do more but we do have rather busy schedules. Remember?" Velma reminded as Taeko groaned. "We'll have time to do more. For now, just relax and…"
Taeko's eyes widen as he released a thick stream that got on Velma's face and some splattered on her chest. He had a look of complete relief as he casually drank the expresso. Velma was not amused.
"You're paying the dry cleaning." Velma said annoyed. "I'll send you the bill. The smell is rather strong…I'm going to need a bath."
Taeko lit up before 'helping' Velma out of that stained dress. Velma's face went hot red.
"Boss, if I jumped in the shower with you…we'd be in there a long while. Please don't tempt the idea." Velma said with a chuckle. "Even if it sounds really good."
"Nice to know your professionalism holds through." Taeko said as her dress and jacket hit the floor. "Even if it's clear you're just as tempted."
Velma rolled her eyes again as he walked for the shower having taken glances at her body. Velma had somewhat plain underwater…not that it took away from her looks. Velma groaned herself and downed her expresso. Taeko got in the shower only to see Velma join him leaving her underwear behind. Both were at least willing to just enjoy the bath and quash the urge to jump on each other's bones. Taeko drank in the sights. Her lightly freckled body, lightly brown nipples, and the thick rump. They were pretty much groping each other between macking each other before leaving the shower red-faced.
"I love my job."
That was a thought on both their minds before getting dressed. Velma had her clothes cleaned and dried by the laundry room. Taeko went to his closet.
"By the way, Xander sent a package. I had upgraded his store with some of the company funds from the RC raid. You now have all FF clothes from Level 0 to 10 now." She said as Taeko looked through it for any pieces that had potential bonuses. "He also sells up to Level 15 gear now."
He did find a few, but some of them something required the whole set to equip.
Taeko settled to wear the [Leather Jacket with Track Top], a pair of [Utility Pants (Boys)], white socks, a pair of [Utility Loafers (Boys)], and the Feud fitted cap. Taeko got to his desk and called Velma.
"Don't go just yet, I'm going to organize the ranks a bit. Something more clear cut." Taeko said getting to his computer.
After some thought, research, and consideration, he had a list formed.
[Shadow Yakuza Hierarchy]
Wakagashira (Second-in-command/Underboss) – Leah
Shategashira (Third-in-command/Underboss) – Gloria
Saiko-Komon (Advisor/Chief of Staff/Underboss) – Velma
Teikei-Komon (Specialist Alliance Member) – Ling
Komon (Specialist Staff) – Shane, Maru
"Velma, who you suggest for the role of a captain?" Taeko mused. "I'm thinking Maria, but I think Charlotte may actually fit better."
"From what I can see, Maria could fit the bill, but I'd agree Charlotte has better connections and can handle herself under pressure." Velma mused. "Helps you're not entangled with her."
"Right…Charlotte it is." Taeko said keying at his computer. "And I may as well put Daya as a captain as well. I only didn't lift her out of debt status because of her mother. But screw it, Aleida can stomach the whole debt and enjoy junior rank."
Kyodai (Captain) – Charlotte, Daya
Kumi-in (Made Men/Made Women/Soldiers) – [Everyone else not mentioned except Chloe]
Kobun (Junior Members) – Angel, Aleida
He finished his list and Velma looked it over.
"What are you going to do with Chloe?" Velma mused.
"Not giving her a rank. She can frankly stay at the bottom." Taeko said with disdain. "Aleida, I can spare."
With the list finished, Velma got a copy noting she'll get the word out and even get outfits for the higher ranked members. Taeko looked to other tasks. He checked the [Gang Warfare] side quest.
[Continuous Side Quest Unlocked]
[GTAZ Side-Mission: Gang Warfare]
Build your gang's (and your friends at the Triad's) empire by stealing from the other gangs in the city. Take your allies and go on a raid. Your [Saiko-Komon] (or certain others) can give you hints.
Variations of Gang Warfare: [Hijacking], [Convoy], [Stickup], [Stash]
Objective: Once the [Chosen Variation] of Gang Warfare has been accomplished.
Evade any cops.
Deliver the goods to the drop point.
Requirement: You can do them solo or with a team (4 max.).
Quest Reward (for each successful run): Whatever you stole is yours.
Anyone you take along will be toughened up (Pets will gain +10 to HP and MP).
You will get +10 to HP and Energy.
Secondary Rewards: If 5 Runs are completed, a [Switchblade] will be found in your safehouses and office armory.
If 10 Runs are completed, a [Pistol .44] will be found in your safehouses and office armory. [Pirate Player] accomplishment achieved.
If 20 Runs are completed, a dozen [Pipe Bombs] will be found in your safehouses and office armory.
[More secondary rewards will be added and revealed over time…]
He was told he could activate a Run from his phone or from his office. He looked to the time to see it was about to be eight a.m., and he started one.
[Gang Warfare Run 1 – Stickup]
[Interrupt the drug deal at [Calico Desert].]
He called up Daya and Aleida for backup before getting his gear and going down to the office armory. The [Body Armor] pickup was still there which Taeko took up, as he discovered through the changelog that it gave him a tertiary HP bar for the armor that matched the amount of HP he had and give him resilience. For weapon pickups, the [Composite Endsville Slugger], [Pistol], and [Molotov Cocktails] pickups remained. The room had pickups for a [Nightstick], [Pump Shotgun], [Micro SMG], [Assault Rifle], a [Knife] as the Game noted was a reward for the Red County raid and the [V-Charger Special], [Crystal Gem Apple] (a dozen), [Kablambazooka], and the [Protoplasm Cannon] pickups were courtesy of XanTech. He downed a [Life Elixir] to be at full strength before the girls arrived.
"Stock up on what you need." Taeko mused. "All from the raid and from XanTech."
Aleida took up a [Nightstick].
"I always wanted to beat a cop with this." Aleida said as Daya got some weapons for herself. "So, what's the job?"
"We're crashing a drug deal a bit too close to home for me. Meet you in the garage." Taeko said before leaving.
A small part of him was a bit peeved that the [Urban Recon Rifle] and the others in the Recon set was slightly nerfed to balance gameplay out. They were still good, but the double bonus was nicked down to 1.5x. His phone rang and he could see it was Sandy calling.
"Hey, what's up?" Taeko said as he answered.
"Something's going down in the desert. We're out of the way." Sandy said quickly.
"I'll deal with it." Taeko said getting in his [Banshee].
She hung up as he thought.
Daya and Aleida came down with Daya in getting her [F620].
"Can't believe you made her a captain and me a fucking junior member." Aleida snapped.
The memo on rank got out to the rest of the Yakuza.
"You could be like Chloe and have no rank in the group…" Taeko said politely. "Unlike her, you're being given the chance to prove your worth. You will be made Kumi-in after you in succeed in five jobs under either me, the underbosses, or the captains."
Aleida promptly shut up and got in Daya's car. She was a bit peeved as kobuns did not have permission to take a company car or motorcycle.
"We're heading to the desert." Taeko said as they drove out.
"I'm not going to make it hard for you to get made, mom. But I won't just give my approval…no hard feelings." Daya said as her mother groaned.
They would soon arrive at the desert to see two cars, one [Huntley S] and a [Sadler]; and a [Nemesis] motorcycle. Two rednecks, clearly RC leftovers, were talking with four members of the Amps. Daya drove and mowed one of the Amps with her car before Aleida jumped out of car using her [Assault Rifle] to force the rest to scatter of nailing one of the Rednecks. Taeko speed around firing V-Charger rounds into the other redneck before drifting to a stop. A cowardly Amp shot his fellow gangbanger in the back before taking the cash to get on the bike to wheel away. Taeko threw a [Knife] partly charged with ki which stabbed the back tire sending that thug smack on his face on the road. Aleida smashed a [Molotov Cocktail] on the other Amp member before shooting down the other.
"I prove myself enough?" She asked.
"It's not over yet. We need to collect the goods and stash them." Taeko said walking up to the fallen Amp on the road.
He shot him in head before taking the duffel bag and vaporizing the body and bike with an energy blast. Daya found the other duffel bag.
[Get the bags to the drop point in Commerce.]
Commerce. A heavily commercialized area of business, office buildings, and high-rise apartments. He knew that a few Joja managers lived in the area. He had been there before to do a small shopping at Roboi's Food Mart once in a while. He got a text from Velma had the SY now had a drop point in the form of a garage under the freeway.
"Ok, load up. We're going to the drop point." Taeko said. "Any cash or guns the bodies had is yours, Aleida."
"Easiest 1,700 Gold I made, and I got a free pair of [Machine Pistols]." Aleida said getting the keys to the [Huntley S]. "Taking the car."
"Make sure you got that repainted, Amps will be looking out for their car." Taeko said tossing the keys for the [Sadler] in the truck.
He called up Sandy to tell her it was all good and there was a free truck for her. Taeko and Daya had to go and take the [Huntley S] and the [Sadler] to his garage at the farm to get them repainted. Daya parked the [Sadler] next to the Oasis, and Taeko got out of the car to let Aleida take the car before he got in his.
"Move out." Taeko said as they drove for the city.
Funny enough, the Amps that were supposed to be on the lookout for their fellow members were a bit preoccupied arguing with a cop over a parking meter which got the Yakuza to slip back. It was a smooth drive to the garage to which they rolled in. He once again heard a GTA IV flavored mission success theme.
[Gang Warfare Run 1 – Complete]
[Your Maximum HP and Energy are increased by +10. Your allies have been toughened up. Check out your loot. You can attempt another run in two hours.]
The two bags were checked out to find 5,500 Gold and 10 bags of [Weed].
"A small haul, but it was worth it to screw over what's left." Taeko said dividing the Gold up. "Ok, 1,000 for the Kobun. 1,500 for the Kyodai. Rest for me."
"Leaving the rest of that here?" Aleida asked as he nodded.
"No reason to transport it now. Save it for when we have a few more runs under our belt." Taeko said getting back in his car. "I'm heading back to the farm. Aleida, good work."
He drove away.
"Good…so can we do a job to a-"
"No, any job you do with me would be called into question." Daya remarked. "You'll need to talk to Charlotte or Gloria…or Velma."
When Taeko got to headquarters, he used [Fast Travel] to get back to the farm. He felt relieved that it all worked, but he was rather hungry. Fried up a [Catfish] and ate it with an [Omelet] while drinking [Coffee].
Velma texted to let him know Leah was coming to the valley and was going to drop off Logan and Tom. Taeko texted an ok before belching. Taeko got up and got to work.
Out from the [Kegs], he got 3 bottles of [Mead], [Cherry Wine], [Strawberry Wine], [Banana Wine], [Blueberry Wine], [Mango Wine], and two bottles of [Coffee]. Of course, there was the 12 bottles of [Mango Wine] for Chen to which he packaged to put in the Selling Bin. He kept the [Coffees] but put the wine in the shed's chest. He texted Abigail he was back on the farm, and she texted back that her and Alex would be over.
He watered the plants, petted the animals, and collected the haul for today.
Four [Green Beans], four [Ancient Fruits], fifteen [Coffee Beans], ten [Large White Eggs], ten [Large Brown Eggs], two [Duck Eggs], and a [Dinosaur Egg] from the crops and coop. Four jars of [Blueberry Jelly], three jars of [Strawberry Jelly], three jars of [Mango Jelly], two jars of [Pickled Garlic], and twelve jars of [Mayo] of the gold quality from the shed. He sensed company and went out to see Evelyn and George.
"Taeko, it's good to see you're hard at work." Evelyn said. "We came to ask about making an order."
"Depends, what can I do for you?" Taeko said.
"We could use some Jellies, Pickles, Cheeses, Eggs, and some Mayo. I rather only go to the store to get peanut butter when I can get everything else farm fresh." Evelyn said.
"I have most of that except the [Cheese]. I can make some with some equipment I got, just how much packs do you need?" Taeko asked.
"Two will do. Now about the wares?" George asked.
Taeko showed what he had for sale, and Evelyn settled to buy the two jars of [Pickled Garlic], the ten [Large Brown Eggs], two jars of [Strawberry Jelly], and three jars of [Mayo].
"I'll flat rate it down to 5,500 Gold. Now about the [Cheese]?" Taeko asked as Evelyn paid up.
"Two packs will do. I'll have Alex pay the price for it." Evelyn said as Taeko nodded. "Thanks again, sweetheart."
The old couple left with George clearly wanting a sandwich. Taeko got to collect the last of the new products, loading to make more products, offloading a few things away, and drink down a [Joja Cola].
"I got the [Iron Bars] and I got the [Solar Essence]. I…"
He was cut off by a text box.
[You have leveled up your Farming skill! You are now on level 7. +1 to Hoe and Watering Can proficiency. [Loom] and [Basic Retaining Soul] crafting recipes obtained.]
"I can make [Cloth] now. Sweet." Taeko mused.
He crafted a [Glowstone Ring].
[Glowstone Ring – Ring (Equip Item) – Emits a constant light, and also increases your radius for collecting items. (Has the effects of a [Glow Ring] and a [Magnetism Ring].)]
He equipped the ring and he smirked at the results. He sensed Abigail and Alex were not far…and neither was Leah. He came out to see Leah in a car, namely the company car. She dropped the pets and she drove off for home. Alex was looking ragged with slime on his shoulders and his trademark varsity jacket tied around his waist.
"He passed the test. He's a licensed adventurer…" Abigail said with a pleased look.
"Good, let me just go get Angel." Taeko said tossing Alex a [Life Elixir]. "Drink up, you'll need it."
Taeko headed into town straight to the library. He noticed the town was slightly expanded with a car park which he found a bit of a relief given his friends were getting rides. The bridges were even widened. He found Angel sitting bored out of her mind as Vincent and Jas were in the midst of their final exams.
"Hey Penny, I can take Angel out of school now, right?" Taeko asked.
"Oh sure. Finals for her are already over." Penny said. "Just sign her out."
He did that and the duo left.
"Tell me we're doing some fun." Angel asked.
"Martial arts training." Taeko said as she whooped in excitement.
With Angel joining them, Taeko got to the training. Mostly the basics to begin with matters of taijutsu.
"This is a form that's on the easy side. Kicks, punches, and grapples. It's basic, but it'll put you over any old street fighter." Taeko said showing them some moves. "And it'll be important to start your foundation for the fighting style you'll want to learn."
"I've got a bit of experience wrestling and a bit of boxing." Alex said going through the motions. "This will be good for legwork."
"I do want to learn ninjutsu. Figured it'd go with my parkour skills." Angel remarked.
"That I can do. Ninjutsu does have a lot of principles to do it. I can't exactly trust you all of them, but I can show you most of them." Taeko affirmed. "Let's draw out your ki."
That ended with Alex and Angel blowing themselves up with Abigail having heal them.
"Well…both of you certainly are making headway. Do remember to constantly train and practice, you'll up your resilience that way." Taeko said. "Now, let's move to melee weaponry. I do want to get a feel for what kind of weapons you'd want to start with. The sword is not for everyone."
"Blunt weapons are my preference." Alex said.
"Question, do normal guns work on monsters?" Angel asked.
"Eh, some of them. But I'd suggest saving those guns for other people. I'd say the most effective guns out of typical firearms to use on monsters, shotguns and heavier." Taeko mused.
"Can I have a [Knife]? I lost my old one." Angel said as Taeko tossed her one. "Thanks, big bro."
"Ok, we'll get you weapons. But first, some gear." Taeko said going inside.
Taeko got a [Basic Upgrade Varsity Jacket], an [Improved Bulletproof Tee (Boys)], a pair of [Basic Fastener Pants], and [Improved Bulletproof Oxfords (Boys)] for shoes out of the closet. It was a nice bonus that, thanks to Xander, any FF item that was lost or given away would be replaced next day free of charge. Taeko brought the clothes out for Alex.
"Here, some gear to adventure in. Basic stuff to start with." Taeko said. "You can pay me back later because your grandparents want you to buy two packs of [Cheese] from me."
"What about me?" Angel asked.
"We'll have to go shopping." Taeko said. "Alex, you'll be riding with Angel. We're heading for XanTech."
Abigail went to get her car, Angel took Alex to her car, and Taeko got to his [Buffalo S]. He left the pets behind and took to the city. They all arrived at XanTech. The inside's interior was pearl white and lined with blue circuitry patterns giving a futuristic vibe.
"Welcome to XanTech. We got new stuff in stock." Jeremy said. "Howdy, boss."
Taeko nodded and got to shopping.
[Omega Blacklight Pants – Legs (Equip Item) - Dark with subtle yellow-green glow, these pants are built for the stealthy soldier. (FusionFall collectible) (+6 Defense) (Glow Effect Similar to a Glow Ring)] [Price: 424 Gold]
He sighed knowing he'd have to wait a while before getting the [Delta Blacklight Shoes] being they were Level 16 gear. He combed through the accessories.
[Buried Treasure Hat – Hat (Equip Item) - If you dig a hole at the X, you won't find anything. But you'll look good while digging. (FusionFall collectible) (Has the effect of a [Small Magnetism Ring])] [Price: 100 Gold]
"Yo, can I get my V-Chargers upgraded? I got the Super Special version." Taeko asked.
"I can get them to the Elite version. 2,000 Gold." Jeremy said looking through the archive.
He put down the guns along with the pants and hat to pay for. As for Abigail, she bought the [Parallel Circuit] set and bought an [Urban Recon Rifle]. Alex bought a [Super Endsville Slugger] baseball bat and smirked. With his V-Chargers upgraded, he equipped the [Omega Blacklight Pants] and the [Buried Treasure Hat].
Angel got Taeko to buy her the [Battle Ready Armor] set and a [Twist Cannon Shotgun]. With them leaving, Taeko's phone rang, and he saw it was Velma calling.
"Talk to me, V." Taeko remarked.
"I got some information on a potential run." Velma said.
"Go on." He stated.
"Seems the Sauseubeam are in a tailspin. With their leader dead, members are either breaking into smaller groups, joining other gangs, leaving the crime life, or fleeing town. Some punks tried to rob the Bodega. It was dealt with, and Gloria got some information. There's a minivan loaded with a stash at the car park not all too far from the Deviant's Dome. Same place you'd meet up with Mei. Apparently, the Purple Dragons got a stash there too in a marked taxicab. I don't know the other didn't knew they were stashing in the same place. If you want to nab them both, you need to hurry. Joja apparently wants whatever the Sauseubeam got…"
"Say no more. I'm starting the Run. I'll need weapons." Taeko said selecting the option.
[Gang Warfare Run 2 – Stash]
[Steal the [Minivan] and marked [Taxi] from the car park. Get there before 1:45p.m.]
"Call Charlotte." Velma said before hanging up.
"Taeko, what's up?" Abigail asked as Taeko checked the time.
"A job. A big one. I'll need help on this one." Taeko said getting to his car. "And we need to go, as in right now."
"Time sensitive?" Abigail asked.
"Yes. It's 1:15 now, and we only got a half-hour. If we're late, our chance has expired. I'll explain on the way." Taeko said getting in car.
"Big bro, is something up?" Angel asked.
"Yeah, something came up. Go take Alex out for lunch and head back to town, I'll be there soon." Taeko said.
"Wait, you're going on a job? Let me come." Angel pleaded. "I got weapons, I can help."
He looked at Alex.
"If it helps, I can get a cab back to the valley." Alex said as Taeko gave him some gold for a cab. "I'll see you back in town. Good luck."
Angel was forced to ride with Taeko, leaving her car behind as Taeko and Abigail were on their way. Taeko called Charlotte, who let him know that Bison now sold guns.
"No longer selling drugs?" He asked.
"With that massive gang battle that went on a while back, he managed to steal a [Slamvan Custom] off a Sauseubeam captain loaded with guns with keys to a storage locker full of them. He sold off all his drugs and decided to become an independent arms dealer." Charlotte explained. "I'll forward his number and join you for needed backup."
[You can now call Bison for his Gun Van to buy firearms!]
He and Abigail arrived at the deserted Dome's parking lot, and he called up Bison. In two minutes, he arrived in a gunmetal grey [Slamvan Custom]. Bison even dressed differently, sporting camo clothes under his chore coat. Charlotte arrived by cab.
"Glad to see the Shadow Yakuza in need of my services." Bison said before opening the trunk.
Angel whistled at the stock. The stock consisted of basically all of the gun vans from GTA IV combined (except for the [Gold SMG]). Taeko immediately got ammo for his [Sweeper Shotgun], bought a [Combat MG], bought a [Rocket Launcher], bought [Body Armor], and a few [Sticky Bombs].
"How much I owe you?" Taeko asked.
"Shadow Yakuza gets half off. Thanks to you, I wouldn't have made a swole gain. 12,550 Gold." Bison said as Taeko paid up. "[Body Armor] is on the house."
Everyone else made their purchases.
"Later, Char. Let's meet up for drinks later." Bison said getting in his van and driving away.
He checked the time to see they had less than ten minutes.
"Let's go. We'll have to walk though." Taeko said running ahead.
Charlotte was glad to have to bought and worn the [Delta Blacklight Shoes] given their speed boost. The four made to the parking garage with two minutes to spare. Taeko could feel the world around go into a cutscene as he and his friends hid behind some cars.
Two [NOOSE Patriots] and a [Rapid GT] that Taeko knew the owner to.
"Shit, it's her." Taeko hissed. "Alani Pelekai, one of Joja Co's senior managers. The bitch who had a hand in sending me to Souamil. If she's here, then her husband is right behind her."
"Going to need some info, boss. Seeing it's fuckin' NOOSE guys." Charlotte said in a whisper.
"Long story short, Joja has bought out police units to serve as their attack dogs. Yeah, corrupt public servants. Joja, to my knowledge, has three. Blue Sector is their corrupt cops on their payroll, Green Sector is the corrupt army guys on their payroll, Red Sector is for the FIB guys, and Black Sector is the NOOSE guys lead by Alani's husband…Makani." Taeko explained.
"Wait, Joja has pockets in…how are they getting away with this?" Abigail whispered.
"Money. Greed can erode morals easily. Joja…they are the kind of business any gang looks up to." Angel remarked as their enemies were getting out of the cars. "But why come here?"
Angel, Abigail, and Charlotte slipped away to take hiding behind different cars. Alani got out of her car, and she was just as Taeko remember. A middle-aged Hawaiian lady with the Karen haircut and demeanor. Despite her looks, he really wondered how her husband put up with her shitty attitude. She was on the phone…with it on speaker.
"Look, I'm here. I don't see any of the gangs in the area. I just want to know what's special about this 'Sleeping Princess'" She said making the Yakuzas' eyes go wide.
"It is an uncut jewel worth at least 3.5 million due to its size." The voice on the other end said. "Just make sure you get it and…wait, am I on speaker?"
"I hate having the phone to my ear." She remarked.
"Did you even make sure no one was listening in?"
"Oh please, I'm not an idiot. I…"
[Survive the shootout! Protect the cargo!]
The 'cutscene' ended and Takeo was allowed to make an entrance. He had an idea…he used a [Sticky Bomb]. He whistled to get her attention and threw the bomb right in her face before using a finger blast to destroy the cell phone.
"Yes, Alani, you are an idiot!" Taeko yelled out before denoting the bomb.
All that remained intact was her lower half as the rest of her was charred bloody chunks.
"Shit! Taeko?!" Makani said recognizing him.
"In the freaking flesh!" Taeko said opening fire with his [V-Charger Elites].
The other Yakuza got out and the gunfight was on.
"Shit, man." Makani said returning fire with a [Carbine Rifle]. "So what? You're with the Sauseubeam, now? You're not even Korean."
"Nah, I'm my own boss!" Taeko said switching to his [Combat MG] to fire back. "Going independent."
Both Taeko and Makani did have armor which ate some of the bullets fired. Taeko got in a [Perennial] and started the engine slapping a [Sticky Bomb] on the gas pedal. He dived out sending the car barreling at the [NOOSE Patriot] before detonating it.
"You sneaky yellow fuck!" Makani said shooting after him.
"Racism now? You do realize Polynesians and Asians get lumped together, dumbass!" Taeko said firing back.
BLAM! Makani hissed in the pain as Angel got in a cheap shot tearing the guy's kneecaps with a round from a [Pistol .44] causing him to hit the ground. He moved for his gun only for Taeko to destroy it with an energy blast.
"Game's over, asshole. Any final words?" Taeko asked as Makani activated a beacon.
"Yeah, good fuckin' luck escaping the other half of the Black Sector and all of Blue Sector." Makani cackled before Taeko shot him.
"Everyone good?" Taeko called.
[Get the cargo and leave the area!]
"I got the last one. We're hurt, but we'll live!" Charlotte said.
"Good, because we need to go now!" Taeko said moving to the minivan. "Charlotte, take the taxicab and follow me. Abigail, take Angel and get out of here!"
Taeko stuffed the [Rapid GT] with all the [Sticky Bombs] he had and several [Flashbangs] before driving away. Charlotte followed.
"Abigail!" Angel said getting on the [Double T]. "Let's blow this shit stand."
Abigail got on a nearby [PCJ-600] and they raced out of them right before the police and NOOSE agents swarmed the area right when Akani's car blew up. Elsewhere on the road to Red County, Taeko and Charlotte were driving before calling Angel.
"Sis, you good?" Taeko asked.
"Yeah, we're good enough away. I'm swinging back by XanTech for my car." Angel said. "Be safe."
She hung up and he called Velma up.
"V, tell me we got a drop point in Red County. There's going to be heat all East Zuzu!" Taeko remarked.
"Hilltop Farm. One of the assets you got from Marty, it's mostly for storage, smuggling, and air travel. Got an airstrip and field hanger. You can rename the place from Hilltop Hangar, if you want." Velma remarked.
"Yeah, could I call it Kurokusa?" Taeko asked.
"Consider it done." Velma said.
[Take your loot to the drop point in Kurokage.]
It was a long drive, but they made it. Hilltop Farm was just off Dillimore. The two arrived at the place. As they arrived, they noticed a familiar there leaning against a [Ruiner].
"Bison?" Charlotte said.
"Yo. What it do, girl?" Bison said fluffing his trenchcoat.
"What's with the surprise meeting?" Taeko said getting out of his car.
"Your assistant called me to say you had an airfield. I realized I could hire your services to do some smuggling for me. Your assistant remarked that the place had a plane already, so I came here to drop off something for you to do land deliveries. Yo, Cricket! The [Dune Buggy] ready?" Bison asked as another guy walked up.
"Yeah, it is. Fully upgraded with the works with bulletproof tires." Cricket said adjusting his mechanic wear.
"You can call me up for jobs or you can task one of your subordinates to do it. Be careful who you pick to do it though." Bison said getting in the [Ruiner] with Cricket. "You can call Cricket if you need repairs for your plane or buggy. Hit me up first."
"Good luck." Cricket said as Bison drove away.
As the duo were driving away, Cricket looked over at his boss.
"Thanks for taking me on to work with you, man.
Taeko could hear the mission complete chime.
[Gang Warfare Run 2 – Complete]
[Your Maximum HP and Energy are increased by +10. Your allies have been toughened up. Check out your loot. You can attempt another run in two hours.]
He got another textbox telling him that he can store the loot in the barn. Charlotte and Taeko wheeled in the cars before opening them up to see the loot.
[Item – Gemstone – Sleeping Princess - A precious stone with a brilliant green color being not only the size of an average, but illustrious. – Sell Price: 3,500,000g]
That immediately went to the safe. He was not an idiot to think he could sell the damn thing like any other gemstone. However, as much as he wanted to chuck the thing in the river to spite Joja…that would be burning money.
"Seems Sauseubeam was stealing some major shit from Joja." Charlotte mused seeing the briefcase full of jewels.
"But the [Sleeping Princess] was what they really wanted." Taeko mused. "At the very least, I can sell the rest of the jewels."
In total from both cars aside from the big jewel, they hauled 10 [Rubies], 20 [Emeralds], 5 [Diamonds], 20,000 Gold, 3 [Bags of Cocaine], and a [Pistol .50].
"Here. 2,000 for Angel. 3,500 for Abigail, and 6,000 for you." Taeko said giving Charlotte the cuts. "I trust my captain to handle this."
"Right." She said noticing a nearby [Blazer]. "Mind if…"
"Go ahead."
Charlotte took her leave bidding goodbye stored off the rest of haul and pocketed the drugs and cash. With Charlotte, Taeko was hit with a textbox with an explanation and introduction.
[Welcome to Your Hangar!]
[Hangars, homes of storing your aircrafts and expanding your business into exporting, importing, and smuggling. [Kurokusa Hangar] will be the first among, maybe more, means to business in air travel. The farmhouse that was here was retrofitted for a connected office to the hangar. You now have an office here, though you'll have to customize it all yourself. The computer in your office is set with the means to order customizations for your hangar and set up jobs. (Note: You will not be able to take smuggling jobs until Day 2 of Summer.) A complimentary [Cuban 800] plane and the [Dune Buggy] will spawn in the hanger along with pickups for [Parachutes], a [Life Elixir], and [Body Armor]. A [Blazer] will regularly spawn in the barn. And as an aside to tide, a small kiosk is set up for you to 'learn to fly'…Flight School!]
"Oh no….oh crap." Taeko thought.
He trashed the taxi and the minivan before going in the hangar. He got a smaller textbox letting him that this place now functioned as a drop point to which he rolled his eyes at. He went to the office and got to the computer to start it up to look through the set up. First order was customizing. Thankfully, Marty already had a workshop for customizing planes which Taeko customized the one good thing that feckless douchebag did for him. He looked through Hangar Styles, before setting on Style 6 with the black and gold style for 234,000 Gold. He left the lighting alone before moving to Floor Graphics. He left the default one up deciding to save that for later. Sprang for modern style which he got to Office Furniture and Living Quarters costing him well over 600,000 Gold. But the benefit of having another save point and a [Fast Travel] spot was well worth it. Plus, now one of the two barns now functioned as a garage. He called Velma to fill her in on what's going on.
"Good, it's all coming together. I do want to let you know that Glamour Slam is soon to be reopened. I did manage to source out some strippers, but you want girls to work the bordello…you'll…well…we will have to deal with that." Velma remarked. "Have you decided on who you'll assign to manage things here?"
"I don't think any of the girls have flight experience. I'll need a flight mechanic…someone independent." Taeko said with a groan. "And while I am aware I can put someone to guard my room, I don't really have anyone to spare that 'duty'. Let me call Gloria, and I'll get back to you."
He hung up and called his underboss. When he asked about it, she cited she'd look into it before bidding him goodbye. He got a text from Abigail remarking she and Angel got paid along with a suggestion to lay low. He texted back before calling Velma again.
"Abby warned me that cops are swarming." Taeko mused.
"They are. Thankfully, Marisol and Maritza got to your car. They're on their way to get to you…and I suggest you change your clothes, get your car, and FT home. Or alternatively, spend the night here. Just keep out of the city for now." Velma said before ending her call.
He heard the horn and a car driving away. He came out to see his [Buffalo S] returned to which he wheeled into the garage. He was not going to drive it…no, he went to the kiosk for the [Flight School]. A text from Abigail with a message to call her now, so he did.
"Taeko, the [Flower Dance] is being held tomorrow…instead of 24th like it usually supposed to. I wanted to ask if you'd be my date." Abigail said.
"Of course, I'll be your date." Taeko said with no hesitation.
"You should get a letter on details from Lewis in your mailbox. Don't be late and wear a suit." Abigail said with a giggle. "Love ya."
"Love ya too." Taeko said hanging up.
[+75 Friendship Points with Abigail gained!]
He walked to the kiosk for In-Home Flight School. He prayed it was not as hard as it was in San Andreas….but the Game really had a sick sense of humor.
"DAMN IT, KYU!" Taeko said trying not to crash the plane. "WHY?! I didn't ask for old SA controls, you fairy bitch!"
Because a VR set up that puts him in a stimulated Verdant Meadows with San Andreas' old controls is clearly fair…
[GAME PAUSED? WOULD YOU LIKE TO QUICK SAVE?]
[Yes] [No]
….
[BONUS CUTSCENE DETECTED. PLAYING BACK…]
Abigail was at home eating a snack as the television was on the news. The reporter was talking about the explosion and the attack.
"Statements from the police put the blame for this attack on a member of NOOSE who is apparently revealed to have ties to a terrorism cell."
"And suddenly the town happy for the Yakuza makes far…far too much sense." Abigail said munching on chips.
The reporters showed the face of one of the NOOSE guys who was Middle Eastern, and Abigail felt a bit bad that his reputation was being tarnished to cover Joja's ass. Ironic given that Abigail had poisoned him with magic before Charlotte shot him. She shrugged, not like the prick did not deserve it. Insult to injury was Joja releasing a statement claiming Akani had ties to the Sauseubeam.
However, there were people feeling the consequences of the attack. Joja simply saw fit to take any money Akani had citing a penalty for his failure…which screwed over the two innocent members left in the family. Well, really one of them. The other one was in a boarding school in Gran Fiero, but both were going to get uprooted.
Nani Pelekai was a young woman who briefly was promoted to parent early when their parents died. She did what she could to fight to keep Lilo and the house they had. Nani had ultimately had to sell the house to in part pay debts, but their aunt and uncle were called. Now Nani and her little sister did not exactly like them. Alani and Makani were the black sheep of the family. It was clear that they were only taking their nieces for the sake of clawing into their parent's money. Lilo was shipped off to some fancy boarding school in Gran Fiero citing it was good for her education.
Nani knew it was just so they did not have to raise or care for her themselves. Boarding schools attracted the people who had no desire to see their kids. Nani did sneak visits. Nani did get room and board, but her uncle and aunt mostly ignored her. Begrudgingly, the one good thing was she got a year to live as a somewhat normal teen. Too bad that party's over. She did not feel all too sorry for them, at all. She knew her uncle at least was dirty…and her aunt was a complete asshole who badmouthed Nani's mother (and her sister) all the time. But now, it was happening all over again only this time…Joja swooped in to collect debts. Now, Nani was left with a duffel bag with her things, barely any cash, no car, and homeless again.
And a drug dealer logically figured Nani should call the debts for all the cocaine that Alani took and did not pay for.
"Can this day get any worse?!" Nani screamed.
Rain decided to pour.
"Son of a-" She spat before a car drove by spraying her with road water. "Gah, it got in my mouth!"
Little did she know that the Game had a plan for her…and so did Kyu.
(A/N: Nani Pelekai is basically the OG character in getting in scenarios to get under a thumb to keep her sister secured. However, I decided not to do that as you'll see next chapter. I'm still going with my idea to have Nani be used to show Joja Corp for being the utter dicks they are. (Plus, Lilo is conveniently indisposed.) On other matters, I've been including more features from GTA IV-GTA Online to expand on Taeko's business. As for the live-in mechanic, I'm going to be breaking one of crossover rules to import a character. Not that it will be an issue since she is canonically dead in her home series anyway. Now, we are in the home stretch!)
(Remastered A/N: Thankfully, this chapter didn't have much to fix. I'm still laughing at how concepts were repeated in TWG:R, and in my opinion, slightly better there than there. Though, I think a core tenement between MoS!Nani and TWG!Nani is MoS!Nani is purely in it for the cash and is willing to do the work but not totally enjoy it. TWG!Nani is basically sliding into the 'Damn, It Feels Good to Be a Gangster' trope. It's humorous to think about, really.)