The Maelstrom of Stardew
Year 1 (Summer)
Chapter 12: First Heat (Part 2)
Monday, the 1st of Summer, 2017
[Quest Announcement] - Gamer Ability/Notification
[LOAD GAME]
…
[LOADING QUICKSAVE DATA.]
[GAME LOADED. WELCOME BACK!]
Taeko was unloading the [Mead] when Pam arrived, who batted her eyes at him. Not really in the mood for Pam, he tossed her a bottle and requested to be left alone for the day. Pam wasted no time complying as he put the rest in the [Selling Bin]. Of course, he put some ingredients in the [Ice Cream Maker] to get it for when he returned.
"Time to check on the cells." He said to himself before going inside to use the warp tile.
It was practically instant that he was in his SG office, and he happily took the elevator down to the cells to which he went straight into Manami's cell first
~[Entering La Brava's Cell]~
Manami Aiba was the definition of a shortstack. At only 111cm, she barely neared four feet in height offset by a large, round head. She had raspberry pink hair worn up in two high pigtails, having only a single bang in the middle of her forehead, swept pointedly to her right. Her eyes were large, pointed-down eyes with dark rings on the underside of each, two longer eyelashes to each far side, which take up most of her face. Her irises are oval-shaped, pink in color, and each has two circles between their small pupils and their rims. Her narrow body offset her double Ds. She wore her villain outfit. The room was the default white room.
"Who are you? Why am I here?" Manami asked.
"You're here because it's entertainment for me." Taeko said casually. "I won't bother with your quirk. It's been neutralized…and you were thoroughly captured."
"I could fight you." Manami said as he laughed.
"Slow your roll, pint-size. You're not going to be a threat to me." Taeko said as she threw a punch.
It missed and she fell over.
"Well, that's my cue to leave you alone. Maybe when you're willing to learn to love…I'll be back."
~[Exiting La Brava's Cell]~
He left her cell before bringing up the screen for the cells, and was going to change Chell's outfit only because he already had the nude option for her. Unbeknownst to Manami, Taeko had not gotten rid of her quirk, but simply turned it against her…to slowly make her a loyal one to him.
"I need to see if I can buy a collar and leash later." Taeko said before selecting the option. "But I'll leave Chell alone for now.
Given the matter he could set 'Andross' to teach her stuff while he's not there with 'toys', he could save his visit for Chell later down the line. Instead, he went into Peach's cell.
~[Entering Princess Peach's Cell]~
He came in to find Peach's look a bit furrowed as he walked in. Peach got up asking if he wanted another dance.
"Nope. I want you to strip." Taeko said casually sitting on her bed.
The look on her face was priceless…and she protested about it until he suggested the idea of something a bit more intimate.
"Just to my underwear, right?" Peach asked.
"For now…" Taeko said. "You can keep on your gloves and stockings.
Peach moved to the center to the room as she started to unzip her dress, fighting down her blush. Her dress dropped down with a FLOOMP revealing lacy white lingerie. Wispy blonde curls poked out from her panties.
"Of course, it's white." Taeko thought as she stepped out of her dress.
Peach was even shaking a bit which only highlighted her long slender legs.
"You'll remain like this when I ask you, understand?" Taeko asked as she nodded. "You can put back on your dress."
He snapped his dress to allow for Peach to have another amenity before leaving. The princess could only sigh in relief, only embarrassed that he was watching her so intently. She hurriedly redressed himself.
[Exiting Princess Peach's Cell]~
Taeko got a notice he unlocked Peach's [Pure Lingerie] outfit. He looked at the status of Rogue, and unlike Peach and Manami, he had authorized self-pleasure privileges for her and Chell. He decided to go right ahead into Rogue's cell.
~[Entering Rogue's Cell]~
He was unprepared to see Rogue in a new…far more sensual outfit. A black 'Slut' choker, her usual studded armbands, her green mesh top that now hung off her shoulder, a tight black tube top, a black leather miniskirt, black thigh-highs, her usual makeup, and black heels.
"Hey there, sugah~" Rogue said, coming up and kissing him.
He slapped her behind.
"Submitting so quickly?" Taeko asked as he broke the kiss.
"Yes…I know what I want…" Rogue said, sauntering over to the bed before lifting her skirt.
"Of course, you're not wearing panties under it…" Taeko growled out. "But fuck it…may as well."
Taeko finally gave Rogue what she craved for so long. Of course, she was tight as Taeko expected. She'd only have fingers before…but Rogue seemed to be numb to the pain, even with the tearing of her hymen. No, it was the waves of pleasure…after years of being pent up. He pumped right back into her, in the midst of one of her moans her voice caught in her throat. The young woman, already so active and deep in her own gratification from getting her cheeks clapped, was losing her to the sensations that were only sharpened. As the 'rules' of the room, the pleasure was increased by pleasing others.
"More…please!" Rogue whined out.
He saw no reason not to keep railing her. She couldn't stop the next orgasm surging up in her cunt. She was already stunned by how good he was giving it to her but the moment she came, gripping the bed. He grinned at the sight before feeling his own climax…he had emptied his load inside her…not having to worry about pregnancy at all. He pulled out watching the mess pour out of her.
"That's a good slut…" Taeko groaned out.
"Yes sir…" Rogue said weakly.
Taeko got his pants up before grabbing one of Rogue's bottom cheeks.
"I have plenty of people more than eager to have a taste of this…" Taeko said before slapping it again. "And they will soon enough."
Rogue drooled as she slumped on the bed, exhausted. He unlocked a new outfit and felt like a million gold coins as he left the room.
[Exiting Rouge's Cell]~
He went back upstairs to his office, surprised that quickly she cracked. Although, after having some thought, it made way too sense why. To his surprise, he found upgrading Rogue to Level 4 was free. A small update changed the condition to upgrading to Level 4 once the capture is corrupted and was banged by the master at least once.
"Sweet." Taeko said before setting her to work in the bordello. "Now, to go home."
He returned home to get the ten gold quality ice cream flavored with cookies and cream. He handed off to the clinic to find Harvey talking to Maru.
"Harvey, I got something for you." Taeko said putting down two things on the counter. "A bottle of [Spice Berry Wine] and a jar of [Fiddlehead Fern Pickles]."
[You give Harvey a loved gift! +160 Friendship Points]
"Taeko, you always got the good stuff." Harvey said excitedly as Taeko left.
Taeko thought of his stuff to do.
"I should visit or call Marcie…but later. I think I'll go check out that fight club in Angel Pine." He thought as he got to the FT point.
With Fast Travel, he was in Angel Pine in his Bifta near his house there. Parking the car in the 'garage' spot to let it go into storage, he went ahead on foot following the map which led him to the Angel Park Junkyard.
[Activities - Fight Club]
Taeko walked in without worry.
"Who the fuck is this porch monkey?"
Taeko looked over to see a woman…the typical trailer trash only with piercings, Nazi eagle chest tattoo, and dyed spiky green hair. She wore a studded collar, a ragged sleeve black tank top with the Confederate flag on it, swastika earrings, distressed jean shorts, torn black stocks, and dark boots. The Game ID'd her as Brandy. Taeko simply ignored her and kept moving on to the group of guys near the makeshift arena.
"Excuse me, I heard this was the place to fight for some cash." Taeko said.
"Hey! I'm talking to you, you fucking nigger."
Taeko took a deep breath and faced Brandy.
"Mere words, but fighting words. Tell me, bitch…you want the smoke? Because that's asking for it." Taeko said, staring down at her.
"My boyfriend could kick your ass…" Brandy sputtered.
"Bring him. I'll gladly fight him." Taeko said coolly. "I'm here for the fight club, anyway."
"Well, if you're here for the ring. You have to pass qualifiers." An older man said, putting out his cigarette. "Hope you can fight without weapons."
"Martial artist. Every part of me is a weapon." Taeko said stashing away the sheath of blades from view in the [Inventory]. "So bring it on."
[FC: Level 1]
The ring was makeshift but the setup was just like SR2 only for the Game to tell him that he did not have to kill his opponents. Merely put them in enough pain that getting up to fight him was suicide. His first opponent was Brandy's boyfriend…who was a typical skinhead in appearance, only barely a bit shorter than Taeko and with the face of a thug. He was talking smack as Taeko gave him a blank look.
"Are you going to fight or are you going to keep talking shit?" Taeko said, taking a fighting stance.
"What? You know a little kung fu? This ain't a movie, boy. This is real-"
Takeo cut him with an axe kick before spinning to slam him with a roundhouse kick. The crowd could hear the crunch of the guy's jaw. Easton clutched his jaw in pain looking at Taeko, who had a cheeky smirk on his face. Easton threw a punch at him only for it to be caught leading to Taeko performing a [Counter Throw] which sent Easton over Taeko's shoulder and into the ground.
"Get up." Taeko said.
Easton attempted to, only to be flipkicked onto his back. Taeko told him to get up only for Easton to insult him, netting Easton a foot slammed onto his back to make him bounce up.
"I don't take kindly to slurs." Taeko said before kicking him in the eyes. "[Œil]! [Nez!]"
The next kick hit his nose with a crunch before being hit with a straight kick to the cheek.
"[Joue!] [Bouche!] [Dents!] [Menton!]"
It was a chain of straight kicks to the upper jaws, teeth, and chin as Taeko spun around.
"Now for the finale! [Parage Shot!]" Taeko said, unleashing a flying barrage of kicks into Easton's face.
The crowds winced as broken piercings and the smell of lightly burned flesh got to them. Easton endured one final kick that sent flying into the edge of the ring as Taeko landed on his feet.
"Man, you fight–Holy shit. Easton, your face…"
Someone got Easton a mirror (at least a phone with a mirror app) to see that Taeko's attack completely rearranged Easton's face. Easton no longer had the face of a thug, but looked more like a pretty boy model. He was still in complete pain but getting beaten up. He looked at his new appearance and came to a realization.
"Clive, I forfeit."
Taeko raised an eyebrow.
"I know where I'm beat…besides…I should be thanking you." Easton said, getting up. "So I'll forfeit before you break my jaw out of place again…I think you put it back into place with that kick."
Easton would never admit it out loud, but he was never too happy with his facial features. That lack of confidence was what led him down the path he was on. It wasn't like he could afford plastic surgery. Easton could see the irony in what happened to him. Clive, the older man who organized the fights, came up to Taeko as he got out of the area.
"Kid, you're in. That was a hell of a fight. I only hope you don't try that plastic surgery kick on others…" Clive said as Taeko laughed.
"I promise. So I can swing by to get in on the fights?" Taeko said, shaking his head.
"I'd be remiss if you didn't. Don't worry, they'll be more challenging fights going forward. Easton was light work to be honest." Clive said before handing Taeko cash. "Here. 500 gold for beating him and 2000 gold as a part of the betting."
[Fight Club Level 1 Completed! +Angel Pine (Respect), +2,500 Gold]
"There is a rule. Participants can only fight twice a day." Clive said.
Taeko's swords were back by his side as he nodded and left. Taeko could hear Brandy clamoring with her boyfriend…but he paid it no mind as he jogged for the trailer park. To his surprise, the park was on sale…fairly cheaply at 25,000 Gold. Of course, he purchased it.
[You've purchased 'Angel Pine Trailer Park'! You will receive 700 gold a day, and your trailer has been upgraded to have a home office.]
The Game told him that he unlocked something and he just had to go to his trailer. Taeko happily sauntered off.
~MoS~
Brandy was at a loss for how bad today went. Her boyfriend gets beaten up so badly that his face was rearranged and then he breaks up with her. All she could do was fume, but he expected her to come crawling back only to hear that he sold the trailer park to someone else meaning…Brandy was at risk of being put out of a home. She still had her old small trailer on the lot…which she was not living in while living with her ex at his place before she was kicked out. Her ex's brother now lived there with his wife…who was Vietnamese, both didn't like her for obvious reasons. Her ex had moved out and left town. All she could do is blame Taeko for this…she grumbled. She walked into the lot right up to her old trailer which really was comparable to a van. All that money that went into tattoos and going to rallies was suddenly…looking stupid. Then she noticed Taeko's trailer not too far away.
"Damn…I guess that's the new guy." She said before seeing a notice about rent on her door. "Shit."
She tore the paper off giving it a glance over, only to pale at the amount of money owed. Then there was a notice that her trailer was being repossessed. It did not help that the locks were changed. Looking over at Taeko's trailer, she got an idea. She remembered her ex mentioning the new tenant was an out of towner. She sauntered up to the door, knocking on it hoping to sweet talk…only to see Taeko answer the door.
"You?!"
Taeko glared at her, revealing he was the new owner.
"I don't suppose an apology will make you less likely to not kick me out." Brandy said before he backhanded her. "Fuck! Was that really needed?"
"Was it needed for you to spew racial slurs at me? No. No it wasn't. Are you even German? Because the Nazis only took Germans." Taeko said as Brandy looked sheepishly. "You don't even know your own genealogy. Of course not, you're too busy at rallies for a cause that's been long dead and proven to be bullshit."
"Look, come on! We can talk about this." Brandy pleaded.
"What about your convictions? I thought you were above working with my kind." Taeko snarked. "Oh right, when the ideology doesn't benefit you, you want to turn around."
"Spare me the lecture…I'll suck you off for-"
"No." Taeko stated.
Brandy paused.
"You're not in any position to bargain with me considering I own your ass." Taeko said, giving her 3,000 Gold. "Here's some gold, go get that ink off your neck and arms…you can keep the chest tattoo…it'd be too painful for you to get rid off…so alter it. And get rid of those swastika earrings…millions of people died under that. When you're done, come back and we can talk terms."
He went inside and slammed the door in the face. She wanted to scream at him, but she knew he had all the cards. Heck, he could have shot her and buried her in the woods…with no one caring about her. The fact he didn't showed he had some restraint…so she sighed and left to go get most of her tattoos removed. She supposed she would not complain, he was merciful enough to allow her chest tattoo to only be altered which would hurt far less than a full removal.
After what seemed to be forever, she returned to the park…her skin tender. She would have called some rally buddies, but most of them were dead…and the remaining ones were in prison.
"This guy looks like the way they described the black bastard who was fighting the Re-Oh…shit."
Brandy paled before thinking back on what was said about him…and it all matched up. Down to the swords…and now all she could think about was the fact she talked shit to his face. She was not sure if he knew she and her ex were a part of the group…connected to the Red County Gang in the past, but she decided to ensure he'd have no reason to look into her further. So she 'readied' herself and knocked on the door. Taeko answered to see Brandy standing there, completely naked with her pierced nipples and shaved pussy in the wind.
"Hey…I realize I was wrong to think only sucking you off was enough." Brandy said sheepishly.
"Once you're under me, there's no going back. You'll be under my heel to pay off that debt, pimping you out is quite likely.." Taeko said. "One last chance to walk away if you value that ideology of yours."
She had already gotten rid of the earrings…and made up her mind. She went in.
"Good…." Taeko said, slapping her rear before closing the door. "Once I'm out of my clothes, get on your knees and get to it."
She noticed the place was well decorated and had air conditioning that got her to shiver a bit given the heat outside. Taeko was already taking off his clothes and she bit her lip at the sight of his body.
"Fuck, he's ripped…and packing. Damn it…he's not even hard yet, and he's bigger than my ex."
Brandy's breath quickened, her pierced nipples stiffening, and she was already dripping while she sank to her knees. She gave it a few strokes as it hardened, the smell of it filling her nostrils. She slid the tip of his dick past her lips and onto her warm, wet tongue. Her tongue flicked at the underside of his manhood a few times before she sucked and popped him out of her mouth. His moan was low as he looked down with a grin. She put it back in her mouth as he grabbed her hair to push it further. She gagged on it as he thrusted down without much in mercy. Brandy was trying to breathe through her nose…taking more of his scent. The only sound was the gagging sound of Taeko's length going in and out of her throat. She was possibly soaked as he pulled his rod out of her mouth. Drool and precum seeped out from her mouth as gasped for air. His member had black lipstick marks.
"Damn girl, you enjoying yourself?" Taeko joked.
"Inside…put it in me…" Brandy groaned out. "Please…"
She climbed up onto him rubbing herself on his length. Taeko tossed her aside on the couch before getting up. She raised her rear to him before he slapped it again with one hand and put on a condom with the other. He could have gone for the front door, but he went for the black cherry slamming into her previously unpenetrated asshole. The scream she let out got Taeko to smirk.
"Tight…"
"That's my ass…I've never…."
"You wanted to make yourself a pain in my ass, I'm just returning the favor."
Her scream tapered off, as she felt inch after inch of his length thrust deeper and deeper into her. Brandy was really wishing she had asked for him to go in the front. Taeko buried himself in the hilt before starting to thrust. Brandy was wincing from the pain. She gripped the couch tightly as the pleasure seeped in as he went as fast as he wanted.
"Yes…fuck….yes!" Brandy whined.
He took in the feel of pale tan ass cheeks bouncing against his hips with every thrust and how her anus seemed to tighten around him every time he drove himself into her. Her grip loosen as the pleasure fully came around. She was bucking her hips to him letting out a high-pitch squeal, a subtle orgasm under her scream. Feeling close to release, he pulled out of her before ripping off the condom to cream her back. He made sure to get some of it on her face.
"I believe you can have the keys back to your place." He said taking them up.
He shoved Brandy out with her keys leaving her to do her 'walk of shame' back to her place. Not that Brandy was feeling shameful, she was on cloud nine as she stumbled back home thinking of what she had missed out on.
~MoS~
Rosemary had come over to the trailer right after Taeko had a shower and redressed himself in fresh clothes opting for the same jacket and shoes, but had a white t-shirt and distressed blue jeans with a black belt.
"Hey Rosemary…" Taeko said. "What's up?"
"It's my grandmother. Something happened…and she wants to stay out of the country. Something about going into hiding…not sure…she said I'm old enough to watch the place. She said she'd send me money to live every few months." Rosemary said.
Taeko had a feeling that the grandmother either got some money or something of the sort. Whatever the case may just be, he shrugged it off before giving her a tub of [Ice Cream'py]. She happily left to go home to enjoy it as Taeko left to use [Fast Travel] to go to Kurokusa. He walked into the living quarters to find the smell of elf pussy as Ingrid was naked watching hentai, namely Oni ChiChi.
"Ingrid, I swear if we ever do it and you call me Onii-chan, you're never getting any dick from me again." Taeko said as Ingrid squeaked.
"I wasn't thinking it…" Ingrid said, pausing the television.
"I hope not. I have a sister." Taeko said dryly. "I came over because I got a map to some island of elves off the coast. I wanted to ask you about it."
"You mean Yelnihelm? I'm trying to avoid that place…nothing full of haughty elves trying to cling to old ways. Still it has some of the finest beaches, pure sand…good for fishing." Ingrid said. "I haven't been there in a long time. But you can fight, so you'll be fine."
He sighed, thanked her, and left calling a cab straight to the Puerto de Sol Marina which he walked to the barge. He got in his [Submerslide] and got to piloting it under the ocean. The ocean. Taeko never figured he'd be underwear like this, let alone own a sub. However, he took in the sights and wonder of the ocean around him. Thankfully, the sub was not too slow…only making the ride take about a half hour.
~MoS~
Keya was an elf on the island of Yelnihelm that, unlike a majority of its people, had a man and a loving relationship. Where most elves' issue was haughtiness, Keya's issue was simply bad luck. Her first love in the past had chosen another, and her second love realized he was gay….which all led to her current lover that was kidnapped by pirates. She sat at the bench on the docks, only able to pray and hope that her beloved returned. The Drifter Pirates had completely trashed all Yelnihelm's boats leaving the people all unable to pursue or fish out at sea for some of their livelihoods. The hum of the sub got her attention as it surfaced…and Taeko came out. Seeing it as some kind of sign, she approached him asking about her husband only to be giving the news. She broke and he held her gently trying to calm her down.
"Why….I actually got together with him this tim-"
"It's not your fault. I'm sorry that I have to tell you this…" Taeko said gently.
"It's fine…it's better I know now…then be kept in the lurch." Keya said sadly. "But I can't stay on this island…if they find out…they'll never let me hear the end of it."
"I got a sub…it's small, but it's enough room for two. I can take you to the mainland…you can start over." Taeko remarked gently.
"Take me to my place…please. It has a dock." Keya said as he let her in the sub.
He drove the sub to where it was as directed, finding out to his delight…it was the [Beach Farm]. He arrived at the dock at the tail end of the property and they got out.
"It's beautiful." Taeko said, looking over the place.
Clear white sand over most of the land with a bit of green and a cliffside. There were plenty of trees around and even trees growing out of the water.
"Me and my love really did work to make this place ours, but I can't stay here anymore. Too many memories…" Keya said forlornly.
"I'd be willing to buy it off your hands so you can have some money for the mainland. I'm a farmer myself…and I'm looking to expand into other ventures." Taeko stated. "Name your price."
"Adding in the recent upgrades to the house. 300,000." Keya said as Taeko handed her a million gold. "But this is…I couldn't."
"Take it, go on a bit of a small vacation. Sort your feelings out before making your next move. Just think of the extra as payment for intel." Taeko said gently.
"How kind." Keya said, taking the bag of gold. "I suppose what I can warn is a lot of elves on this island are really craving the touch of a male yet some will be rather entitled and haughty. The island's run by a descendant of the Puritas royal family…Lorelaan the Fourth. We actually had to deal with pirates who came here being led by Lorelaan the Second and Third wanting to restart the Elf Kingdom. Only reason that didn't happen is that both Lorelaans hate each other. The first Lorelaan had about four children…one from four fathers. I won't say Lorelaan number 4 is much better, she acts just like the first one…only difference is she's content to rule this island that she ran away to 'colonize'."
After filling him him on some details, she left for the house to get her things before returning with the deed. Once signed over, it was his…but the Game told him to take Keya back to the marina to complete the deal. He ferried her back to Ferngill.
"Thank you…I won't forget this kindness which is why I left a few things behind at the house you can have." Keya said as he walked her out into the parking lot.
"If you need a place, I do own a small motel out in the desert. Save your money and such." Taeko said before using the ServoServ app to get a car for her.
He got the keys before tossing them to Keya.
"You can drive, right? Because that's for that [XLS] there." Taeko said before leaving her. "You take it easy now."
Keya nodded before leaving in the car as Taeko returned to the barge to get a text box…several.
[You now own the [Beach Farm]! Please name your new farm!]
Taeko entered in 'Sunshade Farm' in the text box before confirming it.
[You've discovered 'Yelnhelm', your map has expanded and [Fast Travel] points have been established, one to [Sunshade Farm] and the other for [Yelnhelm Port]. A warp pad is set up at your new farmhouse for you to travel to your first farmhouse and your special office at [Stardew Galaxia], your pets will be able to come over. You'll have to get an Assistant Farmhand for this farm, however.]
Getting on the [Seashark], he used [Fast Travel] to go back to his new farm. The dock was upgraded…being longer and metal instead of wood. There was also a railing on one side with his sub docked near a cave. He got off the jet ski and walked around. He decided to explore the green area first which had a natural wall around it that blocked off the ocean. He found a small lake of water, trees, hardwood stumps, and a cave through the wall that led to where the sub was docked. The cave even had mushrooms growing on the sides. He went back through it and forward to find a spot cleared for crops, five by five. The area had trees up providing some shade. He kept moving around finding another small pool of water before going into the sandy upper part of the beach. Unlike the sandy side next to the grassy area and dock, it was mostly clear of rocks, debris, stumps, and most trees. The farmhouse was just like his but the coloring was the wood was a sandy color with the roof and door…an ocean blue. There was a garage next to the house, a new mailbox, and a shipping bin that was dark oak in color. There was a pet area off to the walled side of the farm with a pair of pet bowls and mini-houses for them. The house even had an upstairs patio with an umbrella. He noticed to the left was a little connected islet that had a [Deluxe Barn] and a [Silo] with a [Hardwood Fence] around them.
He went over to it to find an [Auto-Petter] and an [Auto-Grabber] along with a [Chest]. There was also a cow and a goat already at five hearts. He petted them before leaving to go to the house. The interior was ocean themed walls, blue rugs, and sand colored wood….but had a similar layout to his home. At least for the kitchen and cellar, his bedroom was upstairs. There were several [Garden Pots] around the house that had [Mango Trees]. There he found a notecard on the coffee table.
[Note from Keya]
As thanks for your kindness, I left you some items behind. That chest there has some good fertilizer that I made for the crops and trees along with some of my husband's things I would rather leave in your hands. You'll have to buy seeds from the market, here's a poster of the map of the island in the master bedroom. You'll find some stuff in the cellar…along with my husband's invention. I leave you the notes on how to replicate it and stuff you'll need in the basement to do as you wish. Also what's left in the fridge you can have. Best of luck, Keya Deltus
[Your good actions netted a positive outcome! Leftovers added to your fridge: +10 [Potatoes], +10 [Garlic], +10 [Kale], + 50 [Coffee Beans], +5 [Midnight Squid], +20 [Large Milk], + 50 [Sugar], +10 [Large Goat Milk], + 20 [Large Brown Eggs]. Look into the chest, bedroom, and the cellar for other rewards.]
He looked in the chest to find fertilizer, sixty of the highest quality ones…a third of it [Deluxe Fertilizer], another third [Hyper Speed-Gro], and the last third [Tree Fertilizer]. There was also fishing stuff in there, including a clear custom fishing rod. The rod glowed before it vanished into his HUD replacing his [Iridium Rod] and to his surprise he gained two levels in [Fishing].
[You leveled up twice in fishing! Crafting recipes for [Cork Bobber], [Treasure Hunter], [Barbed Hook], and [Dressed Spinner] unlocked. These and other tackles can now be purchased at Willy's Fish Shop. [Worm Bin] crafting recipe unlocked. Your casting distance has increased.]
He got out the rod looking to see it was clearly Keya's leading Taeko to put it together that the fishing rod she saw her had…was her husband's. He put it away looking in the chest to see fishing supplies, namely a lot of [Magic Bait] and tackles. He found a [Seed Maker] which he put into the kitchen and a [Workbench] that went in the living room. Closing the chest, he went down to the cellar. Unlike his cellar, the flooring was completed and there were only no [Casks]. Instead it was a bunch of scattered parts to which Taeko gained a new recipe…both for food and for crafting.
[You can make a [Popsicle] and build a [Popsicle Maker]!]
From what he saw in his Menu, the [Popsicle] was easy to make, even if it required a maker for it, and was half as good as [Ice Cream]...along with the added bonus of a random buff depending on what fruit was used for it, for three minutes with a cooldown of three and a half minutes. He looked at the parts…and thanks to his perks…he had enough to make a dozen [Popsicle Makers] and [Kegs] which he hastily got to make. The 'pop maker' even looked like a mini-fridge with its design, and he was pleased to see that one machine made a dozen [Popsicles] so with this setup…he could produce 144 of them.
"I have to give it to the man, he had a good design in mind for this. Thank you to him and to Keya." Taeko said before leaving for the bedroom.
He found a sizable bed in the bedroom and found in his closet that he had a new outfit that looked like Dark Link's outfit from Ocarina of Time fittingly called the [Time's Darkness Set] consisting of the [Dark Link Hood], [Dark Link Tunic], [Dark Link Trousers], and [Dark Link Boots].
[Dark Link Hood - Hat (Equip Item) - The cap of the reflection from the Hero of Time that came from the dark waters in a bygone time. Allows you to see in the dark…if you don't mind glowing red eyes while doing so. Even unlocks a Link-esque hairstyle, while you focus your eyes. (SSB collectible) (+3 Defense, +Night Vision)]
[Dark Link Tunic - Torso (Equip Item) - The tunic, undershirt, and gloves of the reflection from the Hero of Time that came from the dark waters in a bygone time. (SSB collectible) (+3 Defense, +10% increase to weapon speed, +10% to sword attacks)]
[Dark Link Trousers - Legs (Equip Item) - The trousers of the reflection from the Hero of Time that came from the dark waters in a bygone time. (SSB collectible) (+3 Defense, +10% increase to weapon speed)]
[Dark Link Boots - Footwear (Equip Item) - The boots of the reflection from the Hero of Time that came from the dark waters in a bygone time. (SSB collectible) (+3 Defense, +10% increase to weapon speed, +2 Speed, [Stealth Bonus granted when the whole set is equipped)]
He supposed it was ironic he got the Dark Link set, but he was not complaining. It even came with a pair of fake Hylian ears he could slide onto his ears. He immediately unequipped the Niko set, the [Buried Treasure Hat], and the [Infrared Goggles] to shove into the closet before equipping the [Time's Darkness Set], even changing his clothes to his equipped ones to look at himself in the mirror. He had taken the option to get his hair to a Link-esque look.
"At least I have green hair…" Taeko jokes to himself before looking at the ears. "I'll pocket them for now. All I need is a shield and the Master Sword."
He sensed a presence before looking out of the patio door to see that he had company. A dark elf with platinum blonde hair modestly dressed with white lipstick and eyes in some shade of blue. Not seeing her as a threat, he came downstairs out of the door.
"You're not Keya. I didn't she'd move on so qui-"
"She didn't. She sold the place to me…I'm new in town." Taeko remarked as she looked eager.
"Then you have a boat." She remarked. "Well then, I have a proposition that benefits both of us…"
"Go on." Taeko said.
"You'll need the queen's favor…she isn't all too nice to outsiders. I can help with that, if you can help me steal a boat. With this place's boats all damaged…I managed to buy the ferry service business for cheap. The old owner was killed by a cannonball. If you can help me…I can help you."
Then he got an offer for a quest.
[New Quest Alert]
[Yelnhelm Mission: Follies of a Ferry]
Help Erelune reestablish Earthsea Ferry Company by stealing a big ol' boat with her!
Objectives: Go out to sea with Erelune to find the targets.
Kill all the targets.
Secure the [Reefer].
Defend the islet and boats from the incoming waves of drug dealers and the boss.
Wait for Erelune to return.
Lead them back to Yelnhelm!
Requirements: Erelune must come with you, and needs to be alive by the end of the mission.
A [Dinghy], which requires 5,000 Gold to get one off SecuroServ.
Quest Reward: 50,000 Gold, ?, [+Friendship with Erelune], ?, ?, ?
He accepted the quest which cost him 5,000 gold.
"I'm in. Given you don't act thirsty at all, you've clearly got a good head on your shoulders." Taeko remarked.
"I'd say that's a cruel stereotype, but I can't even say that considering this island. And you got yourself a deal Mister…"
"Maelstrom. Taeko Maelstrom, miss."
"Erelune." Erelune said. "Now come on, we need to get in the water."
The two left for his barge.
"This used to be a wooden bridge…you work fast." Erelune said as they got on the black [Dinghy]. "And if you get me one of these…I'd be willing to pay you for it."
"After you tell me the plan." Taeko remarked.
"Ok, a good distance away there's some drug dealers who meet up by boat every few days to do business a few miles north of here. One of them always comes in a [Reefer]...those boats could be modified to make a good ferry. You can take them all out…" Erelune said as Taeko drove the boat.
"So what's your deal? You don't seem thirsty at all." Taeko remarked.
"I am, but I just have better restraint about it. I had hit rock bottom and I realized I needed to get my shit together. Besides, you're not my type…I prefer more mature men of clearer complexion. No offense." Erelune said as Taeko rolled his eyes.
"So you're into older white dudes…that's no big deal. I know a few who are single…" Taeko remarked.
The thirst slipped back as she nervously laughed it off, but inwardly…she was hoping he was serious about it.
"Well then what's your deal? What brought you to this island?" Erelune said before he told her. "Oh…that's a shame. Keya was a nice girl, but people made fun of her for being unfortunate. Didn't help our kinswomen kept trying to get in her husband's pants. So you're some kind of farmer slash businessman…while also leading a borderline criminal organization."
"Pretty much. Ok, looks like we're coming up on them…take the wheel." Taeko said seeing the boats.
They were around a chain of big rocks with a small islet there. Erelune killed the engine to let the waves carry them as they got closer. Taeko jumped into the [Reefer] before telling Erelune to get some distance. He went in to find some weapons and ammo…before coming across a Saint's Row 2 weapon, the [XS-2 Ultimax] automatic shotgun. His old shotgun went flying into the ocean as he snatched it. He moved along as he got his next objective, which was to either steal the boat under their noses or kill them all to get it. He opted for the second one by simply going up top and aiming at the islet with his [Rocket Launcher]. But not before putting on the [Hylian Ears].
BOOM! Body parts went flying as those that did survive opened fire after them. Taeko jumped off the boat before switching to Raikiri.
"[Reversal Slash]!" Taeko said, making a rainbow-colored slash in the air.
It deflected back several of the bullets forcing those shooting to dodge…or end up hit as Taeko landed on the ground.
"What the fuck am I looking at?" One of the dealers said before Taeko blew his head off with the [XS-2 Ultimax].
"The Grim Reaper." Taeko said icily as he was surrounded at the front with guns aimed at him. "[Final Edge]!"
Using [Gunshin], he raised his sword and unleashed a barrage of many crescent slashes. Because of [Gunshin], the shock waves were all shades of red and blue…all with a burning tint once they hit something. The drug dealers and thugs all scrambled to get away, only to get cut…and roasted. Taeko's attack ceased as he immediately downed a [Life Elixir] to restore his energy given that attack told nearly half of it. While some of the boats got trashed, there were two dozen boats still functional including the [Reefer].
"Taeko, I'll head back to the island to get some of my employees to deal with collecting the boats. You need to just hold it down in case you get some company." Erelune said as Taeko nodded.
"Oi. After this, keep the boat." Taeko said as Erelune rode off.
As she was gone, the mini-map showed several red blips incoming. Taeko then showed an arrow over a boat that had a crate. He got it out and opened it up to see a minigun with unlimited ammo and there was now a health bar for the [Reefer]
"Oh, it's going to be one of those kinds of missions. Oh ok then! Let's rock!" Taeko said confidently as he saw the enemy boats coming.
[Cue BGM: Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening - Battle 2]
The minigun whirred to life before Taeko opened fire on several people on [Seasharks] blowing them up as other boats were opening fire at him. He moved to the right aiming at a coming [Toro] killing the driver as the boat crashed into another boat.
"Boom baby!" Taeko said as he fired in another direction to keep from being flanked.
Then he heard a helicopter, seeing it was a [Buzzard Attack Helicopter] that opened fire after him, forcing Taeko to scramble for cover. He put the [Magnetic Field Generator Mk.2] to use, even if the invisible bubble shield was rather likely to get shredded in seconds…it was a buffer. He leapt up in the air switching to [Raikiri] and performed Link's famous [Spin Attack] slashing up the chopper before throwing a [Mega Bomb] as he descended to the ground.
[Music Ends]
BOOM! Taeko hit the ground with a roll before reaching for the [Minigun] up only for a familiar tendril to snatch and hurl it into the sea. Out came Ultros…who smashed several boats himself.
"Ultros." Taeko said as the octopus glared at him.
"YOU. Well well…you're all alone…and this will be where you die!" Ultros said.
[Cues BGM: Final Fantasy VI OST - Battle Theme]
He lunged a tendril at him only for it to be sliced off with [Eclipse]. Using [Observe], he found Ultros was weaker this time around, his health to half of what it was the last time. Ultros grabbed incoming boats to hurl at him as Taeko did his best to evade only to get hit by one, costing some hit points. Taeko pushed off the wreck only to get grabbed by Ultro's tendrils.
"Got you now, brat." Ultros said as Taeko followed his ki into his eyes. "What are you?"
Firing eye beams, Taeko aimed right into Ultros' right eye which forced the squid to let him go and scream in pain. He fired another blast into Ultros' other eye, blinding the squid. Ultros screamed trying to find him, but the stealth bonus screwed the cephalopod from hearing his footsteps. Taeko drew [Raikiri] and stabbed down one of Ultros' tendrils, electrocuting him.
He took some steps back before unloading [Emperor's Death Beam] which promptly shredded Ultros mercilessly given Taeko had far more energy to spare than the last time. He actually had to stop the attack prematurely seeing that Ultros was dead. Retrieving his sword, he ended up getting 100 [Squid] off him as a drop. He panted as he swallowed down another [Life Elixir].
[BGM Ends]
Erelune would return with her entourage who all give Taeko goo-goo eyes at the sight of him. Erelune cleared her throat telling them they had a job to do and that he was not an elf. He took off the [Hylian Ears].
"You look rough…you ok?" Erelune said as he nodded. "Well your skirmish left us with plenty of boats. Enough for me to sell at a neat profit, but I owe you a new boat. Take your pick…"
After looking around a bit, he saw it…the iconic [Squalo II] from Vice City, the one Ricardo Diaz wanted stolen. It had a few scratches, but he immediately got in the boat and led everyone back to the island's port.
"Taeko, thank you for your help. And with that big dead squid, we'll be having seafood for weeks. Here." Erelune said paying him back for the [Dinghy]. "And I'll see to it that you'll have a cut of the business."
Taeko walked off the port before looking up with relief to see the mission was completed.
[Quest Complete!]
[Yelnhelm Mission: Follies of a Ferry]
Help Erelune reestablish Earthsea Ferry Company by stealing a big ol' boat with her!
Objectives: Go out to sea with Erelune to find the targets. (Complete)
Kill all the targets. (Complete)
Secure the [Reefer]. (Complete)
Defend the islet and boats from the incoming waves of drug dealers and the boss. (Complete)
Wait for Erelune to return. (Complete)
Lead them back to Yelnhelm! (Complete)
Requirements: Erelune must come with you, and needs to be alive by the end of the mission.
A [Dinghy], which requires 5,000 Gold to get one off SecuroServ.
Quest Reward: 50,000 Gold, Respect with the People of Yelenhelm, [+Friendship with Erelune], [Squalo II] added to your barge, [Earthsea Ferry Company] asset (2000 Gold a day), +1 [Fishing Level]
[Your Fishing skill is now on Level 9! You can now create [Seafoam Pudding] and craft [Magnet] bait…alongside buying it in the shops. Your proficiency with your fishing rod has gone up alongside your casting distance.]
He was also informed that he could get free ferry rides…if he wanted. He returned back to his farmhouse eager to use the new machine as he got a phone call from Leah.
"Leah?" Taeko asked as he answered her.
"Taeko, I was just wondering what you were up to." Leah asked. "I can't help but fret over my best friend."
"Off island at the moment…not too far. Managed to buy myself some property…another farm. One on the beach that's all isolated…with some machinery that can make some popsicles…so I'm expanding on the frozen treat business. I'll call it, [Ice Paradise]." Taeko said confidently.
"I can hardly wait…but are you going to sell it through Alex and his stand?" Leah asked.
Taeko could have not included him, but noted to Leah that he intended to include Alex.
"Look I have to get started, later." Taeko said before hanging up.
Thanks to the perk, the pop maker only needed about three minutes. He decided to make use of the higher quality fruits which would assure the results would be gold quality. Even put some fruits in some kegs to make something of a gift for the queen. Given Keya's warning, a simple gift would aid his chances. He went upstairs…to go watch television. He sat on the couch and turned on the television with some leftover [Pizza] to eat. He did text Abigail that he left something at the porch of his farm for her.
He was in the midst of watching Adventure Time…cringing at some parts. He did make a mental note to see if Princess Bubblegum was a capture available. He sensed he had company before there was a knock at the door. Taeko got off the couch to answer the door to see he was face to face with Queen Lorelaan the Fourth herself.
"So that's the queen. Man, why am I getting deja vu from her…must be the Baalbuddy artwork." Taeko thought.
She had long blonde hair, fair skin, amber eyes, a pair of F-cups that strained against her elegant white gown that had a gold lined cut in center exposing her cleavage down to her navel, heels, royal jewelry, and a staff. Looking like her mother before her…and like the cliche high elf. She had her entourage of four with her….that sported a unique gold ring with an ornate design.
"Can I help you?" Taeko asked as one elf blew a trumpet to play a note.
"Words have spread of your actions. You have restored our country of boats, killed the ilk around our waters, and eliminated that wretched Ultros. So on behalf of myself as Queen of Yelenhelm, I wish to make you an official knight." Lorelaan said.
"That would require me to personally fight for you, do your dirty work with little reward. Just one problem, I happen to lead an organization…and I don't think it'll be in my best interest to work under you." Taeko said.
Another elf cleared her throat. She was far shorter than everyone at a paltry four foot five with pastel pink long hair that stuck out along with her dusty pink eyes. She was rather lean and lacking in size compared to the others with more Asian/European features. Her choice of clothing was hinted to Taeko that unlike the others…she could definitely fight. She wore a full-bodied ocean blue garment with black pants, gloves, and boots, over which she wore a flowing sand colored robe with six black magatama markings across her chest and back. Her family crest was on her right shoulder. She carried a cane…that fitted a pimp.
"Yui, I…"
"Lorelaan, I told you that he was not going to just bend your will like that." Yui said. "How am I supposed to be your advisor if you don't listen to me most of the time?"
"Big talk from the flattest elf in a-"
That noble was met with a gun in her face, that cane was revealed to the [Pimp Cane] shotgun.
"Shijimi, you and I are the same height. The only difference is you're a chubby bitch who's better stuffing your fat fucking mouth. Considering you were the one who suggested trying to play someone who's clearly not one for bullshit…" Yui said before slamming the cane down on the woman's foot.
She turned to Taeko.
"Mr. Maelstrom, allow me to apologize for this insult."
"Don't sweat it, you clearly know what you're doing." Taeko said calmly. "Keya pretty much filled me in on the problems...namely Yelehelm is in desperate need of trade.."
"We have a deal with a group of Costa Rican drug runners…" Lorelaan said, trying to take control.
"Had. Did you forget you kept trying to cheat them?" Yui said.
"Oh…I might have led the charge to kill all of them…" Taeko said sheepishly before thinking, "Erelune, something tells me that you used me for your dirty work."
"And considering you did them all near singlehandedly and killed Ultros puts you on a level of not to be trifled with." Yui said sagely.
"Helps that I'm a registered monster hunter." Taeko said, showing his license.
Lorelaan went ghost white before dragging Yui off to the side a good distance.
"Yui, I will admit that I was wrong." Lorelaan said as Yui glared. "Oh come on, I didn't think he was a part of the guild! If he gets word to them about my offer, I can get in…"
"He won't. He won't have reason to…not if you make him and Erelune nobles." Yui said flatly. "He already has the land…and Erelune is going to monopolize the boating business. Making them nobles will assure you get a cut into their operations here at least. And it'll make the people look more favorably for rewarding Taeko for getting rid of Ultros. Makes you look kinder."
"Ok, but what rank do I give him?" Lorelaan asked.
"Make him an Earl…a Count, you can use that to ask him to at least help our military out. Of course, you will have to pay him per job or come to some kind of arrangement." Yui said. "However, it'll put him a rank over all the nobles…but you know what must be done."
Lorelaan and Yui returned before Lorelaan cleared her throat.
"I apologize for my mistake, I believe I mean to grant you Earldom." Lorelaan said as the other nobles looked mortified.
Many of them were baronies by inheritance or by marriage. Given Yelenhelm's recent establishment, there were no counts or dukes (aside from one)…given Lorelaan never got around to choosing a viscount or baron to make an earl.
"I'll accept it, but I have a request. I would like to have Erelune as my viscount. She helped me and set this all up." Taeko remarked. "Viscounts aid the earls, right?"
"That they do…and consider it earned." Yui said.
"But you can't…"
"Shijimi. You are a baroness who seems to forget yourself." Yui said, getting in her face.
"And do you have a title, you flat chested midget?" Shijimi asked.
"She does have one as a Grand Duchess." Lorelaan said as the other nobles were ghost white.
"How? Her family was never-"
"I gave her the title." Lorelaan said cutting them off.
While true, the real story was that she gave Yui the title as incentive to stay loyal. The only reason Yui's status was not known to the others was because she kept up the humble appearance and never lorded her title. Shijimi tried to backtrack only for Yui to smack her face with the cane.
"Don't apologize, just know better." Yui said calmly before turning to Taeko. "You are hereby dubbed Earl. Welcome to nobility, Count Maelstrom."
The [Game] created his Earl title as a new perk.
[You have a new title that nets you a new perk.]
[Earl of Sunshade - As a Count of Yelenhelm, this gives you some boons. 60% discount on all shops and services in Yelenhelm. Any product you made, grew, or found on Yelenhelm will be at gold quality minimum. (in terms of artisan products, you are limited to only having four types of artisan material on your Beach Farm) (Note that if you're selling to your fellow nobles, the price is to normal pricing.)]
"Damn, that's a cap on this." Taeko thought. "But I can work with this."
"It'll be a pleasure to be a part of it, but…give me one moment." Taeko said before going inside.
He returned with two bottles of [Ancient Fruit Wine].
"I happen to produce wine, high quality. This is Azorium flavored." Taeko said.
"Azorium?!" Lorelaan said, taking one. "You grow Azorium?!"
"Plenty of it." Taeko said with a smirk. "Take it. And here's one for you, Lady Barayabu."
"Just call me Yui." Yui said, taking the bottle. "I suppose we should come in…we got explaining to do."
Taeko let them in the house, showing to the couch as he got some glasses. He poured himself a glass of [Pineapple Wine] before taking a swig.
"Ok, how does this noble stuff work?" Taeko asked.
"Yelenhelm is divided into districts of a sort…with three islands connected by natural and man-made bridges." Yui said, pulling out a small white sphere that projected a map of Yelenhelm.
The map showed Taeko's land as a more isolated area but revealed to the south of him was a bit more beach. North and east of them were a jungle-esque forest with roads going through it. The map looked like it took cues from various video games. The [Game] slowed time a bit to ask Taeko if he wanted to name the beach and forest to which Taeko opted for [Serenity Beach] and [Kiba's Woods].
"We're here on the westmost island, Beatitudo, the smallest and mostly kept in its natural state aside from the man-made bridges to connect it to the other two islands. Only really has one notable town. Pax Animi being the center island…the biggest one." Yui bemused.
Pax Animi looked like Vice City from the map only with an added highway system..
"There's Iudicium as our easternmost. It's pretty rough terrain out there…monsters are around that idea." Yui said before focusing the map on Beatitudo. "Now there's only two districts on this island…the Sunshade District and the Moonlight District. The Sunshade District is yours consisting of your land, Serenity Beach, and Kiba's Woods. The Moonlight District is the town and two cities to the East of you within driving distance: Gorgeous Gale, Burnside Vale, and Staunton."
Taeko looked interested in seeing that Gorgeous Gale took cues from Arcadia Bay and Old Bullworth Vale as some sort of amalgamation. Burnside Vale looked more akin Shoreside Vale that included a bridge connected Staunton Island to another, smaller land mass that was clearly GTA III's Portland. Even had an underground road leading back to Burnside Vale and Gorgeous Gale.
"What about that little bit of island there?" Taeko asked.
"Portland." Yui clarified.
Taeko was introduced to the other nobles and what they controlled. Baroness Shijimi Namika, the chatty plump woman, was a baroness by marriage…her husband controlled Ocean Beach. Ironically, the two other baroness either got it by marriage or inheritance. Viscountess Griselda Dazel, who basically looked like Zelda from Breath of the World, had her title by inheritance…controlled Prawn Island which had a massive library and research center instead of a film studio. The last noble was Baroness Maron (Taeko was not even surprised she looked like an elf version of DBZ filler character of the same name) Clark who had her title by marriage. Ironically, her husband was murdered by the Wander Pirates leaving Maron in control of Vice Point.
"Wait, you have a military base…and an airport. Why weren't you using aircrafts?" Taeko asked as Lorelaan sweats nervously.
"We didn't have the budget…"
"Wait, we were supposed to buy them?" Maron asked.
"Good grief, what the fuck did I agree to be apart of?" Taeko asked in disbelief.
"Welcome to my world." Yui groaned before turning to the others. "This shit is exactly why I wanted you to join the nobility. Aside from needing a man's perspective…I needed someone competent in general. Women outnumber men 3 to 1…and obviously…there's issues."
"And you'll all have jobs that you'll need me to do…" Taeko dryly.
"Can I buy more bottles of this?" Maron asked clearly, not paying attention to the discussion. "Do you also make other products?"
"I make ice crea-ACK!"
Lorelaan had him by the collar of his tunic.
"As your queen, I demand you hand some over!" Lorelaan snapped as Yui pulled her off him.
"Cool your jets, you're the queen with an ice cream factory on your island. Why don't you have ice cream?" Taeko asked.
"It's been taken over by a local gang…the ice cream factory is really a front for drugs." Yui said. "It's in Little Havana which itself is gang controlled. Both it and Little Haiti have gangs. For Little Havana, it's the Red Dead Reapers. For Little Haiti, it's the Blue Sea Sirens."
"You have a gang problem?" Taeko asked. "What about your police and military?"
Yui gave a dry look and thumbed over to the nobles who all looked sheepishly.
"I'll be blunt. It doesn't pay well, and they lack manpower. Aside from the usual dirty and incompetent cops." Yui said bluntly. "The military is only slightly better, but they can't do shit because their budget got cut…again. "
"And how many men are in the police and military?" Taeko asked. "What's the percentage?"
"Less than 5%. Most of the men have private sector jobs." Yui remarked. "Because of the majority, men have slid into sections of work traditionally considered female dominated. Teaching, nursing, child care. It's ironic, isn't it? Our queen started policies, incentive for men to not bother with going into the police force or the military…go for less risky work. It backfired, and I still lord it over that her treatment of men would come to bite her.."
"Essentially, they're becoming managers, business owners, lawyers, judges, and all that white collar stuff. And with the women thirsty, they simp for the men while getting screwed over by them. The men got the pick of the litter, and can enjoy having women do anything for their attention. I'd say the only men who are at advantage are poor men who likely would take advantage of…but considering the court system…women probably don't even get away with shit like everyone else. And I'm just referring to the men who are here and didn't leave. Lorelaan basically made the women 'incelfs' and made the men see the value in themselves. Her feminism basically shot the people it was supposed to help." Taeko surmised as Yui laughed.
"You get it." Yui said as Lorelaan facepalmed. "And even when she lifted the policies, she was begging for men to join the police force and military; they ended up joining private security for the other nobles instead."
Maron and Shijimi were awkwardly whistling. Griselda did not…given that she was a researcher and she needed security, something Taeko could understand.
"Well shit. This is a fine mess I've let myself be a part of…" Taeko said. "Now that I've finally got the lowdown. I'd like time alone…I'll show you all out."
As they walked outside, Taeko noticed their cars were all from the Vice City games with the [Game] designating them as VC counterparts. Given the analogues, he had a feeling that the town and city in his neck of the woods would have III-era and LCS-era vehicles. The Game actually explained that while modern vehicles were available, there more of the likelihood of vehicles on Yelenhelm could range from III up to Chinatown Wars. Vehicles would be denoted by code from which era they were made from except being any from the IV era.
"I'll ensure you're mailed a passport." Yui said as they all exchanged phone numbers. "And we may have jobs for you in the future."
"As long as it pays." Taeko said. "By the way, what's the deal with you being small? Is it some sort of halfing thing?"
"I wish…" Yui said bitterly. "You play Zelda?"
"I dabble." Taeko said.
"I'm a part of a subspecies of elves that are basically the Kokiri only we stop at our early teens." Yui said getting in her blue [VC Phoenix] with a white strip. "Lorelaan, come on!"
Lorelaan got in the car as Yui drove off.
"It was a pleasure to meet you." Griselda said sheepishly. "Please visit the Prawn Island Library and Research Center when you can. Your expertise would be appreciated."
He handed her the last bottle of [Pineapple Wine]. Her driver was waiting for her in a humble white [VC Sentinel XS] as Griselda got in.
"I'm ready to return to the center. Sorry for the wait, and here…for the trouble." Griselda said, giving the bottle to him.
The driver seemed happy as he drove Griselda out of the place. Taeko smiled seeing that Griselda was a decent noble all around…her only issue was being cowed by the Queen and Shijimi. Maron, he was fairly weary…she may be an airhead but appearances were deceiving. She was smart enough to hire private security at least, so there was something in that head of her.
"Taeko, it was good meeting you. Look me up in Vice Point if you get a chance." Maron said getting in her white [VC Infernus] and driving off.
Shijimi bid her goodbyes trying to play flirt as she got in her cherry red [VC Banshee] and drove away. Taeko sighed with relief before going inside to get the [Popsicles], but not before putting the ice cream he had in person…back in the freezer alongside the [Squids]. An interesting detail was gold quality [Popsicles] healed about the same as a regular [Ice Cream], but that was only a small issue. The fact of the matter is he had a new product he could produce…and a place to do so.
"I'm limited in what artisan stuff I can produce here. Honestly, I don't need a cask here. If everything here comes out as gold quality, I can use the casks on my regular farm. If every artisan product comes out gold…that cuts down time in the cask down to six days. Ok, the kegs and popsicle makers can stay…" Taeko mumbled to himself.
He considered a [Cheese Press] but given he was not going to make milk a real focus here before having an idea.
"A [Loom]." Taeko said to himself. "I can make several to put in the basement. Make that barn exclusive for sheep and sell the highest quality [Cloth]. I'd be raking in a nice profit, and Emily will love it. I do owe her one."
Much to his relief, he found out that he set the placement of animals from his computer for a small fee which he happily paid for. He wanted to explore Yelenhelm, but he opted to use the warp pad wanting to return home. He…had a lot to unpack.
[GAME PAUSED? WOULD YOU LIKE TO QUICK SAVE?]
[Yes *] [No]
….
[GAME QUICKSAVED! Hurry back.]
(A/N: And there's the introduction to another place to explore, Yelenhelm. It's cultural setup was greatly inspired by Baalbuddy artwork and merely showed the logical conclusion to the 'incelfs'...in a world they made that still screws them over. This chapter was really long…and the day is not even done.)