Fanfiction: The Signal (A Stardew Valley Fanfiction) CHAPTER 26 IS OUT! (February 22nd)

CHAPTER 10! RIPPING THE DECADE AS WE SPEAK!

Jane’s second week in Stardew Valley went on as clear as day with Sebastian helping her in the farm. With the help of his mother Robin, the two managed to clear some more land for crops as Jane started to feel endeavoring. Jane thought that it would be a good idea to plant some strawberries that she had bought in the form of seeds during the Egg Festival. In the end, the fifty square meters of the cleared land was conquered by strawberries, which Jane felt happy about according to Sebastian. During the week, the raven-haired boy concentrated on his programming work whenever he returned from farming. Despite his new routine hindering his work, he didn’t want to upset Jane after the incident two weeks ago. Whenever it was lunchtime, he would walk upstairs, get some food, go back downstairs and along with programming, he would practice Jane’s homework. Tomorrow will be Friday, the day Sebastian would go to the Stardrop Saloon to hang out with his friends in the evening. Not only that, it will also be the day when Jane would check on his homework. Luckily, Sebastian had been practicing his sign language with the help of video tutorial he had found in the internet. My name is S.E.B.A.S.T.I.A.N. I am 20 years old. Sebastian thought to himself as he spat it out through his hands. He repeated it until he could now do it without the aid of neither the internet nor his notebook. After a few more times, he felt content. He checked the clock to find that it was 11 o’clock at night. “Time to go to bed, I guess.” Sebastian said to himself as he switched off his computer after saving his work. He climbed into his bed with his phone on his hand. He watched some ‘Let’s Play’s of Yandere Simulator in pitch darkness of his room. Just as his brain craved for some smoke, Sebastian fumbled for his electronic cigarette on his bedside table. Suddenly, something clicked in his mind.

Oh no. The research documents! Panicking, Sebastian turned on the room lights and hurried back to his desk. He fumbled through his pile of work papers until he found a thick yellow file. The Side Effects of Electric Cigarettes by Haneul Park. As he looked through the documents, Sebastian started to learn about this multiple disturbing diseases confirmed to be caused by electric smoking such as the Popcorn Lung Syndrome. That didn’t matter now. He had to memorize the entire document as his world turned darker and darker.


*BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

Sebastian bolted up from sleep to find that he was still on his desk. Grunting, Sebastian stood up from his chair to wash up. Seeing that there was little to no time, he decided to skip breakfast. He packed his notebook and Jane’s research documents and bolted down the mountain. His memory of the research was blurry. As he arrived at the doorsteps of Jane’s house, Sebastian knocked on the door to have it immediately open. Jane was already on her work clothes. She gave a wave of greetings. “Hey.” Sebastian greeted back. Suddenly, a growl. It was obvious. It was from Sebastian’s empty stomach.

Hungry? Jane asked.

“Ugh… yeah. I woke up late, you know.” Sebastian replied. Jane jokingly clicked her tongue. She let the raven-haired boy in the cottage. The interior was much cleaner that before as books and action figures were now organized. There was a portable gas burner and a microwave on the table. The old CRT TV that used to be here was now sold to robin. Sebastian saw a fishing rod next to the bed, the one which Jane acquired during her second day at the Valley from Willy Drake, the local fisherman. The cottage gave a aroma that made Sebastian’s stomach race. Just then, the microwave gave a beep. Jane limped towards it and opened it to take out a steaming plate of sliced pizza. “It’s okay, Jane I’ll hold on until lunch at the Saloon.” Sebastian said when she offered the slice. With a worried face, Jane consumed the food. Just as she was about to take the plate outside to wash, she gave a jolt. She picked her phone up and started typing.

One second! I know something I can make for you! The screen said.

“Hey, I said I’m okay! No, really!” Sebastian tried to assure the girl, but it was too late. Jane had already opened her tiny freezer and pulled out the largest fish she had caught. She limped towards her desk and pulled out an army knife. ‘Where the hell did she get all that?!’ The raven-haired boy thought as he froze in place as Jane proceeded to decapitate the fish and started to gut it skillfully. As Jane finished deboning a fillet of the said fish, she started to cut it into thin slices, making Sebastian know what she was making: sashimi. His heart skipped a beat as Jane handed him a plate full of the food with rosy cheeks. When he took the plate from her and set it on the table, Jane typed on her phone and showed the screen to him.

I don’t have soy sauce. I hope you enjoy it.

“Jane, this is my favorite dish of all time!” Sebastian assured as he picked up a pair of chopsticks and took a bite on a slice. It was the most delicious thing he had ever tasted. It made him shed a tear. “It… it’s so good. Why?” He asked himself. Hearing this, Jane’s blush started to intensify as she put the remainder of the fish back into the freezer. Sebastian was now ravaging his first meal of the day when Jane turned on ‘Cheer Up’ by TWICE on her phone. When he was done, Sebastian helped the farmer friend take her tools and headed out to start today’s work.


“…Anyway, how did you get that army knife?” Sebastian asked as he helped Jane water the last of her crops.

My brother gave me as a gift for my fifteenth birthday. You don’t want to know how much he played Battlefield back then! Jan replied, giggling.

“Wow, your brother sounds awesome! I wish I could have an elder brother like you.” Sebastian replied as the two proceeded to walk back into the cottage. Jane gave a shrug as she opened the door to let herself and Sebastian inside.

I’m going to take a shower. Can you wait?

“Sure! I’ll be doing… something.” Sebastian replied, avoiding eye contact. Smiling, Jane limped towards her closet, acquired some clothes and went into the bathroom. As soon as he heard the door lock, Sebastian immediately opened his file and started memorizing the content. He had no problem remembering the Popcorn Lung Syndrome and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, but he just couldn’t get the third one in his head. Just as he was struggling to memorize, he felt a hand touch his shoulder. He turned his head to find Jane with dripping wet hair wearing a white T-shirt and short trainers. “Oh, you’re done already?” Sebastian asked. Jane nodded with her special cute smile. ‘I’m sure she’s doing that on purpose…’ he thought to himself. He scanned the farmer to find books in her arm.

Ready for class? Jane asked. Seeing the screen, Sebastian swallowed in despair. He nodded anyway. Smiling, Jane placed her books down on the table and limped towards her chair. Homework? Jane wrote on her notebook. Uh oh. Accepting his face, he raised his hands and waved them around.

My name is… Okay, now for his name. S.E.B.A.S.T.I.A.N. Perfect. Let’s continue. I am 20 years old. Seeing this, Jane gave the loudest squeal Sebastian has ever heard from her. Blushing, he gave Jane a high five, beginning today’s lecture.


Today’s lecture was a bit difficult. Jane tried to teach him thirty basic vocabulary words in sign language, mostly verbs. This make Sebastian remind himself of his school days as his world started to turn dark. He later found himself still on Jane’s table. The farmer had shaken him awake. He gave a groan as he lifted his head to find Jane giggling out of control. “Wh… what’s wrong?” he asked. Jane simply shook her head, covering her mouth. Her eyes. Signaled that she was still laughing. “No, seriously, Jane. What’s happening?”

You looked so cute when you were sleeping! Jane wrote on Sebastian’s notebook. Seeing this, the raven-haired boy looked away, trying to hide his blush.

“Lies.” Sebastian simply replied. Pouting, Jane gave a whimper. Suddenly, she started writing something on his notebook. The content shocked Sebastian.

Homework? Oh no. She remembered it. Giving a sigh, Sebastian opened his mouth.

“Firstly, Popcorn Lung Syndrome. The E-Cig’s liquid that’s used to smoke contains diacetyl, the same chemical used to make the butter flavoring for popcorn. This chemical can cause the said disease that induces…” Sebastian proceeded to correctly say the symptoms and continued with the second side effect: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. After that, he tried to start the third… uh oh. He couldn’t remember.

You didn’t do you homework, didn’t you? Jane wrote. Shaking, Sebastian nodded. For some reason, however Jane howled with laughter. In fact, she had been giggling for the whole time. Well, you’ve already received your punishment!

“What do you mean?”

I’ll forgive you. At least you did some of it. If you didn’t, I would have ordered you to hand in your E-Cig, but I guess not. Seeing this, Sebastian shrugged.

“Hey, uh… you wanna go to the Saloon this evening? Everybody’s coming.” Sebastian asked. Jane nodded in response, still giggling. “It’s 3 o’clock right now, so… should I stay her for a while or what?” Jane nodded. “Great, then! So, what should we do?” hearing this, the farmer limped towards her TV and powered up her Xbox. She started up Rocket League. Smiling, Sebastian joined as Jane handed him a controller.


Three hours passed as if it was like a minute. Sebastian told Jane that it was time to go, but as soon as the farmer unlocked her eyes from the game to face him, she burst into laughter. ‘Okay, something’s wrong.’ Sebastian thought as he helped Jane get up and out of Agria Farm. The walk lasted ten minutes as usual, draining Jane of stamina. As soon as the two entered the Stardrop Saloon, the heard bustling conversations from multiple people, such as Leah Kjellsten and Elliott Cromsworth sitting on the table as they clinked their glasses of wine for a toast. Sebastian escorted Jane to the leisure room where their friends were while people that had the liberty to face him laughed. When the two entered the room, Sam and Abigail stopped what they were doing and waved at the two. “Hey, Seb…” Abigail tried to greet, but burst into laughter. Finding out what was going on; Sam followed her as his body collapsed on the pool table. “Seb, you look so beautiful!” Abigail laughed.

“Huh? What do you mean?” Sebastian asked.

“Bro, didn’t you see the mirror?” Sam asked back, unable to control his laughter. Confused, the raven-haired boy unlocked his phone and turned on the camera, only to be horrified. Jane had done make up with deep blue mascara, pink powder cheeks and pencil marker cat whiskers on his face.

“Really, Jane?” Sebastian exclaimed. Jane couldn’t help but howl with laughter. “Very funny, guys.” Abigail and Sam started to laugh even harder as the purple-haired girl fell from the couch and punched the carper. “Ugh, screw you guys. I’m going to wash my face.” He said as he flipped the three off, wore his hood over his head and walked to the bathroom. Standing next to the sink, Sebastian washed his face over and over until there was no trace of makeup remaining. He then returned to the leisure room to find Jane taking selfies with Abigail on the couch. He walked to the pool table to find Sam already preparing for a game. “I have some questions. A lot.” He said.

“Speak up!” Sam replied, throwing his friend a pool stick.

“Did she tell you what happened? Did you ask?”

“Well, apparently, you slept during her class.” Sam replied, taking his first shot.

“Uh-huh?”

“Apparently, you weren’t a good student. As a punishment for not doing your homework…” Sebastian stopped Sam there. He knew where this was going and found his answer. “Got it?”

“…Yes.” Sebastian grunted as he took his shot. Just as the pool game came to an end with the raven-haired boy standing as the victor once again, the two boys heard the two girls fighting in the videogame they were laying. They came over to see what was going on.

“I… I was reloading!” Abigail shouted. As soon as her character respawned, Sebastian saw Jane’s side of the screen firing a shot at Abigail’s head, killing her character instantly. “Spawn Killing? That’s so cheesy! Not to mention that you were camping!” hearing this, Jane stuck her tongue out, gloating her purple-haired friend. “Oh yeah?! I’ll show you one day! I’m sure I’m better than you in StarCraft II!” hearing this, the eyes of the two boys widened.

“Whoa, Abby! You’ve just triggered a Korean!” Sam said.

“So?! I’ve been playing in the Korean server for three months!”

“Is that why your win-to-lose ratio is so low?” Sebastian asked, snickering.

“Shut up!” Abigail shouted. Hearing this, Jane’s smile disappeared. “Oh, sorry.”

“See what you’ve done to her?” Sam asked.

“It doesn’t matter! Jane, I challenge you in a match… tomorrow! I’ll bring my laptop to your farm! You just see your master control you!”

“I’m in for the match!” said Sam. And so, the gang continued what they were doing until it was time to go.


As Sebastian was escorting Jane back to her farm, he peeked over at her phone to find her talking to a group in Facebook Messenger.

-Haneul Park: 여기너무좋은데? (It’s so good here!)

-Minseo Lee: 설마우릴버린건아니지? (Did you abandon us?)

-Jiwoo Bae: ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ (LOL)

-Haneul Park: 아니야! ㅋ (No! LOL)

-Jiwoo Bae: 친구는사귀였어? (Made any friends?)

-Haneul Park: ㅇㅇ (Yup)

Jane proceeded to upload a photo of herself with Abigail. It was cute to Sebsatian.

-Hyunsoo Kim: 헐 (Whoa)

-Haneul Park: 부럽지? (Jealous?)

-Hyunsoo Kim: ㄴㄴ (Nope)

-Jiwoo Bae: ㅋㅋㅋㅋ질투하네~ (LOL he is!)

-Minseo Lee: 근데꽤이쁘다? (But she’s kinda cute?)

-Haneul Park: 왜? 사랑에빠졌니? (Why? You suddenly grew a crush on her?)

-Hyunsoo Kim: ㅋㅋㅋㅋ (LOL)

-Jiwoo Bae: 농장은어때? (How’s the farm?)

-Hyunsoo Kim: 힘들지않아?너손다리없잖아! (Isn’t it tiresome? You don’t have an arm and a leg!)

-Haneul Park: -도와주는친구있음 (I have a friend who helps me)

-마음씨착한애야 (A good friend.)

-Hyunsoo Kim: 올~ (Whoa)

-Jiwoo bae: 올~ (Whoa)

-Minseo Lee: -올~ (Whoa)

-그애아냐? 걔이름뭐냐? (Is it her? What’s her name?)

-Haneul Park: -아비게일이라고오래전친구야 (She’s Abigail, my old friend)

-그리고ㄴㄴ (And no.)

-기다려 (Wait)

Suddenly, Jane proceeded to turn on her camera and swieftly take a picture of herself with Sebastian. “H…hey!” He yelled, but it was too late. Jane had posted it on the chat. Despite unable to understand the language of the chat, Sebastian knew what was going on. Or, at least get the hint.

-Haneul Park has posted a photo.

-Haneul Park: 얘야 (It’s him.)

-Hyunsoo Kim: 오~ (Whoa~)

-남친각? (Future boyfriend?)

-Haneul Park: 아니! (NO!)

-Jiwoo Bae: ㅋㅋㅋㅋ (LOL)

-Minseo Lee: ㅋㅋㅋㅋ (LOL)

-이름뭐야? (What’s his name?)

-Haneul Park: 세바스찬! (Sebastian!)

-Jiwoo Bae: 이름도좋고~ 남친각이네! (What a nice name… for a future boyfriend!)

Just as the duo reached the farm, Sebastian tapped Jane back to reality. After waving her goodbye, he walked back to the Carpenter’s Shop while thinking about what happened today.

 

Well, everybody is now ignoring my fanfics, so there you have your answer. I feel so bad for this. I miss those days when they had recognition

 

Chapter 11 Published! This fanfiction will be up every Thursday!

ALERT! This chapter recommends you to play some StarCraft II to understand.

9-year old Jane and her 12-year old brother Minsoo along with their uncle dismounted the train in Busan Station. “Stick close to me.” Uncle said as Jane and Minsoo followed him out of the station. The girl took a glance at her brother’s watch. 10:14PM 14th of Summer 2010.

‘where are we going?’ Jane aske dwiht her hands when Minsoo turned his head to her.

“You’ll see. Come on, our bus is coming.” Minsoo replied as a blue bus stopped near the station and opened its doors. The siblings followed their uncle in and placed their transportation cards on the receiver, giving two beeps. The bus lurched forward as jane took her seat.

‘Take a seat!’ Jane signaled her brother, who was standing next to her.

“It’s okay, Haneul. I can hold on.” MInsoo assured. Time seemed to pass when the bus stopped at four stations.

“This stop is: Busan Kintex. Busan Kintex. Please make sure to place your card on the receiver properly before you leave.” The computerized voice said through the speaker of the bus.

“That’s out stop. Let’s go.” Minsoo said. Jane immediately left her seat and exited the bus after her brother, making sure to permit the card receiver to read her card. “Here we are.” Minsoo said as he held her sister’s shoulder. The Kintex building had numerous banners of videogames such as the newly released sequel of StarCraft. “Do you like it?” Minsoo asked Jane.

‘I love it!’ Jane replied skipping with joy. She then hugged her brother and uncle.

“Glad you do. Come on, let’s go have some fun!”

“I’ll leave you two by yourselves from here, okay?” Their uncle said before walking away.


Jane suddenly woke up to begin another day. She knew that Abigail would storm into her house today for a StarCraft dual. Knowing that she accepted the purple-haired girl’s challenge, she quickly took a shower and dressed up on her usual work clothes. She took out a can of ham from her tiny refrigerator along with a bowl of instant rice. She prepared her buttered frying pan on the gas burner and placed the rice in the microwave. As soon as this was done, she powered her computer on. Her desktop was well organized with each file representing the Genre of the games: Real-Time Strategy, FTS and MMO-Action. She turned on battle.Net and logged in just as her microwave beeped. The farmer pulled out the now steaming hot plastic bowl of rice and started cutting the canned ham. When she was in the middle of cooking her breakfast, the door gave three knocks. Jane lowered the fire and limped towards the door to find Sebastian waiting behind it. “Hey, what’s with the aroma? Is it your breakfast?” Sebastian asked. Jane nodded. “Oh, I see.

What’s wrong? Jane typed.

“Nah, it’s nothing. Go ahead!” Sebastian replied. Jane let her raven-haired friend in and continued with the cooking. Once done, she noticed that Sebastian’s eyes were glued to the recently cooked ham. She knew that he wanted some. She dropped her spoon and started typing on her phone.

You didn’t eat breakfast, didn’t you? Seeing this, Sebastian gave a jolt of surprise.

“N…no, it’s okay! I…uh…” Sebastian paused. “…Yeah, I didn’t. I woke up late.” Jane gave a giggle and signaled that it was okay as she stood up from her seat. She opened her refrigerator and pulled out another bowl of instant rice and threw it in the microwave. As she waiting while staring at Sebastian, she gave her signature attack: the disarming smile. For Jane, making Sebastian blush could never get old. Just then, the microwave gave a beep, signaling that Sebastian’s rice was ready. She took it out and handed it to the raven-haired boy. “Ow, it’s hot!” Sebastian exclaimed as he hastily placed down his hot plastic bowl on the table. Jane handed him a spoon, keeping her signature smile. “Yeah, thanks.” Sebastian said as he opened the seal above the bown to reveal its steaming white rice.

You don’t know how to eat it, don’t you?’ Jane typed.

“Nah, I think I remember Abigail eating instant fried rice like you you’re doing.” Sebastian replied as he dug into the rice with his spoon.


“That was a delicious meal, I’ll have to admit!” Sebastian remarked as he finished emptying his plastic bowl. Jane gave a blush as she was cleaning the frying pan. She didn’t know why she would blush whenever this raven0haired boy would compliment her. “So, tell me when you’re ready to work, okay?” Jane nodded. As she made sure that there was no more traces of grease left on the pan, Jane truned to Sebastian to find him staring at her computer monitor, which was showing the main menu of StarCraft II. “You seem to have prepared a lot for Abigail’s challenge.” Sebastian remarked. Placing the pan on the drying rack, Jane limped over to her phone and typed her response.

I don’t like disappointing people.

“Well, I guess. Abigail’s a tenacious girl, if you ask me.” Seabstian added. “Say, are you done?” Jane nodded. “Alright, then. Sebastian said as he handed her a watering can as he escorted her out of the cottage. The weather was slightly hot today despite the sun not being high up in the sky. Jane observed her small farm where she grows a multitude of crops. Her patch of tilled soil where her strawberries were growing captured her eyes the most. Other than that, there were small fields of parsnips, cauliflower and a medium sized potato field just in front of the cottage. Jane turned to Sebastian, who was observing the farmland. When Jane involuntarily scooted closer to him, the raven-haried boy noticed her movements and turned his head to her, making Jane startle. “Ready to start the day?” Sebastian asked. Jane nodded as she limped down the stairs. Jane found that her potatoes were ready whenshe walked to them, preparing to water. She dropped her basket and struggled to kneel down as her stiff prosthetic leg prevented her from doing so. As she gave a sigh of submission, she felt Sebastian’s hand rest on her shoulder. “Let me help you.” He said as he knelt down and started rooting the potatoes from the soil with a sickle. When he rooted out the last potato plant and dumped it in the basket, Jane couldn’t help but blush. She proceeded to water her crops once he was done. As she was halfway done with her strawberry field, Sebastian approached her, making her type on her phone.

What’s Abigail’s strategy?

“What do you mean?” Sebastian asked back.

What faction does she play the most? How does she play? Pausing, Sebastian thought for a while.

“Oh, I think I know what you’re trying to ask.” He said as he held the basket of potatoes tightly. “Hmm… she plays as the Zerg… very often. I remember her being very dependent on rushing to win the game. We are victims of it, you know.” Jane giggled in response as she continued watering her strawberry saplings. “I’ve only survived her rush once. That was when I found that she likes using Ravagers.” Jane nodded ass he finished watering.

I’ll see what I can do. I do have some strategies.

“Good luck, Jane. Wait; are those who I think it is?” Sebastian said as he pointed at the two figures walking in the small gate of Agria farm. Jane instantly knew who they were as one of them pointed at the duo. It could be no other than Abigail and Sam. They were making fun of her and Sebastian.

“Sam, what did I say? This is why I ship them!” Abigail giggled.

“I see!” Sam replied loudly.

“What the hell are you guys talking about?!” Sebastian shouted.

“Seb, you’re asking the obvious!” Sam replied. Blushing, Jane hid her face. “See?”

“Wha…” Sebastian hesitated as he took a glance at the farmer. “SHUT UP!” He shouted as his cheeks became rosy.

“Ah~ see? You’re right, Abby!” Sam gloated.

“Jane, are you ready for my challenge?” Abigail called. Jane walked towards her to find that she was holding a laptop. Seeing this, Jane gave a shrug. “Of course you are, girl! Should I set it up?” Jane nodded as she opened her cottage door and let the two friends in.

“Jane, your cottage is nerdier than Seb’s room!” Sam exclaimed. Still outside, Jane gave a shrug to Sebastian as both of their stomachs grumbled.

“I guess it’s lunchtime. I have something for us. Mexican food. Lead the way.” Sebastian said as the duo entered the cottage.


How long have you played this game? Jane asked through her phone as Abigail opened her laptop and powered it on.

“Three years.” Abigail replied as her laptop screen showed the desktop. The purple-haired girl proceeded to log in to her account: Occulanta837. “You’re in the Korean server, right?” Jane nodded as she limped towards her computer. Her game was on since morning. “How long you played? What’s your account.. oh, never mind.” Abigail said as she received a game request from Jane’s account: FlyToTheSky. “Let’s see… GRANDMASTERS?!” Abigail exclaimed. Hearing this, Sam and Sebastian huddled up to Abigail’s laptop in amazement. The purple-haired girl was still in Gold League. “…How long have you been playing?” Jane pointed out eight fingers in response.

“Abby, I think this was a baaaaad idea.” Sam suggested.

“W…what have I done?” Abigail stuttered. “No, it’s too late for that! Jane, make a match now!” She said with determination. Shrugging, Jane created a match on a 2-player desert map. She chose to play as the Protoss while Abigail as the Zerg. During the loading screen, Jane observed as Abigail cracked her knuckles and Sam lean on her chair. Sebastian walked towards the farmer to lean on the soft chair of her.

“Good luck, Jane. Save us from Abby’s evil.” Sebastian said, making Jane giggle as she put her cat-eared headphones on. Soon enough, the game started. Jane’s Probes automatically started harvesting minerals near her Nexus. Just as she started training another Probe, Jane typed on the chat.

-FlyToTheSky: gl

-Occulanta837: gl hf sal sal pls

-FlyToTheSky: No pak apk : )

-Occulanta937:

As soon as the chat seemed to have ended, Jane’s fingers started to pick up pace. Her clicking became faster along with the tapping of her keyboard. Seconds later, the cottage was filled with the sounds of keyboard tapping away like a Gatling gun, only slowing down what Jane observed her scouting Probe. “That was the fastest typing I’ve ever seen!” Sam’s muffled voice said. Jane gave a sheepish smile as her Probe discovered Abigail’s Zerg base. Her Spawning Pool was already being built. She quickly moved the camera back to her base to find her first Gateway along with two Zealots complete. If the words of Sebastian were true, she will need Adepts and a Mothership Core to quell off Abigail’s Zergling rush. Thus, she gathered enough minerals to build another Nexus on an expansion and a Cybernetics Core. When this was done, Jane proceeded to train some Adepts and send another Probe to scout. Her fingers were now restless as she started to create more and more control groups for her units. Just then, a chat message from Abigail.

-Occulanta837: Prepare to lose!

-FlyToTheSky: Sure.

Jane closed the chat as she finished upgrading her ground units’ armor and constructed a Photon Cannon. Just then, Jane’s scout Probe revealed a large group of Zerglings wandering around the creep infesting the terrain. She hid her Probe near a Xel’naga Watch Tower as it revealed the area around. Knowing that there may be little time, Jane picked up her place and started building a Robotics Bay and eventually a Stargate. She will need Oracles to make short work of Abigail’s Zerglings. Just as Jane’s Stargate finished training the first Oracle, Abigail’s Zerglings started invading her base. Jane’s eight Adepts killed off the lightly armored Zerglings while the Mothership Core shot the creatures down from above. Her now finished two Oracles chased down the remaining Zerglings as they started retreating. In the end, Jane purified Abigail’s rushing force.

“I…I have other strategies!” Abigail whined. Just when Jane finished construction of a Fleet Beacon to build Carriers and Tempests, a group of roaches started attacking Jane’s expansion. The farmer quickly converted her Gateways into Warp Gates to instantly summon Stalkers while she began training of Carriers. Despite the turmoil happening, Jane tried her best not to panic and picked off the roaches one by one as her first Carrier was completed. With it, she picked off the helpless Roaches as they retreated. When the coast was clear, Jane micromanaged her units until she now how five Carriers. She converted her Mothership Core into the powerful Mothership that can cloak allied units and sent it along with the fleet of Carriers to Abigail’s base. As the fleet engaged with what looked like Abigail’s main force which consisted of Mutalisks, Ravagers and a few Corruptors, Jane gave a nod as she ordered an attack. The Ravagers used its special ability on the Mothership, dealing severe damage. Little did the purple-haired girl know about the massive fleet Jane has brought with it. When the Mothership was destroyed, Abigail was horrified of how many Carriers and Adepts there were.

-Occulanta837: gg

Occulanta837 has left the game!


A large ‘VICTORY’ screen appeared before Jane. She removed her headphones and clapper her hands. She turned to Abigail to find the purple-haired girl burying her face on her laptop keyboard. “You… you did it!” Sam exclaimed.

“You saved us from her evil!” Sebastian added, giving his farmer friend a high five.

To be honest, she had pretty clever tactics Jane typed.

“I’ve never seen anyone use the keyboard that fast. It was like… watching those E-Sports tournaments on YouTube!” Sam remarked. Jane gave a smile in response.

“…How did I lose?” Abigail mumbled, drawing the attention of Sebastian, Sam and Jane. “No. I can’t accept this defeat. There has got to be a way…”

“Abby, you do know that you’re up against a Grandmaster, right?” Sebastian asked.

“I know, but still…” Abigail hesitated. Just then, she thought of an idea. “…OVERWATCH!”

Nope! Looks like it’s classtime! Jane typed, giggling.

“Aww, no fair! What the hell!” Abigail pouted.

“Abby, Jane’s right. I have class with her. Jane, my notebooks are in my house. So… should we do it there?” Sebastian asked. Jane nodded in response.

You two, if you want to play here, bring your laptops, okay? Jane typed to Sam and Abigail.

“Sure!” Sam replied. Smiling, Jane was escorted by Sebastian out of the cottage and eventually up the mountain. “Oh, good luck, Seb! I know you can get her heart!”

“Shut up!” Sebastian shouted as he continued escorting Jane up the mountain.


When Jane and Sebastian returned from the Carpenter’s Shop after a sign-language class, the farmer found Abigail and Sam huddled up in the computer. Little did they know that Abigail spied on them the whole time with Robin as the two women giggled about how adorable the duo looked. Jane limped her way to the computer to find that the two were watching a embarrassing video: Her fifteen-year old self playing along ‘Megalovania’ from Undertale with a violin. Jane quickly pressed Alt and F4 to close the video. “Why? It was so good!” Abigail remarked, but Jane shook her head with rosy cheeks. “Okay, now that the two lovebirds are here, let’s play some Overwatch! I’m with Sam!” She added as she stood next to the blonde boy, leaving Sebastian and Jane no choice but to make a team together.

“…Fine.” Sebastian sighed as he powered his laptop on. Just as Jane was about to turn on Overwatch in her computer, she received a Skype call from… her brother?

‘Uh oh!’ Jane thought. It was Minsoo. Not wanting to make him sad, Jane accepted the call after adjusting her camera.

“Hello? Haneul?” Minsoo called in Korean. With a big smile, Jane gave two waves. “Oh, hey! Glad you’re happy and fine. How are you doing?”

I’m fine! Jane signaled.

“Well, it’s been some time since we last saw each other. Did mom tell you about my military… wait, who’s that beside you?” Minsoo asked. Confused, Jane looked around her to find Abigail and Sma huddled around her. “Damnit, does that mean I have to speak in English?” Jane gave as shrug. “Alright, then. Who are you guys?” Minsoo asked in English.

“We’re her friends!” Sam replied.

“Steady there, Goku. What’s your name?” Minsoo asked again.

“I’m Abigail and this is Sam.” Abigail chirped.

“…and that guy behind you? Were you beating him up?”

“Oh, him? Seb! Jane’s brother’s calling! I hope he’ll understand that you’re her boyfriend!” Abigail jokingly called.

“I’m not! Jesus, Abby!” Sebastian grunted as he made his way to the computer camera. “Uh… hello.”

“Alright, Chris Angels. You’re that boy my parents claim that you’re my sister’s boyfri…” Minsoo was interrupted.

“I said I’m not! It’s Sebastian, by the way.” Sebastian cut him off. Abigail howled with laughter while Jane blushed while covering her face.

“He is! They’re so cute together!” Abigail said. Jane slapped her shoulder.

“Well, you two will get there eventually.” Minsoo jokingly added.

“Hey!” Sebastian exclaimed with rosy cheeks. Sam couldn’t help but collapse on the floor laughing. “What the hell, Sam?!”

“Anyway, Haneul. I hope everything’s fine there.” Minsoo continued. Jane nodded. “I’m actually surprised that you gave up your university admission for farming. Well, to be honest, I’m proud that she followed her goals. She was grandpa’s favorite grandchild. In fact, I only saw him once. Anway, what were you four doing?”

“Abby and Jane were in a StarCraft II tournament.” Sebastian replied.

“Yeah, and your sister ANNIHILATED her!” Sam added.

“Really? As expected. Haneul tried applying for a E-Sports team, but our parents refused. I supported her decision, though. Geez, what’s wrong with having a real life D.Va, anyway?” Minsoo said.

“Wow, your sister’s amazing! First, videogames, violin and now… E-Sports?!” Sam exclaimed.

“Well, yeah. I know. I still don’t understand why people hate her except a few of her friends including you. Still, it’s good to see her with you lots.” Suddenly, something sparked in Jane’s mind as she shaped her sentence in her hands.

Can you sing for us?

“What?! Sing?! Are you insane? Not when there are people around!” Minsoo exclaimed, but Jane whimpered in plea. Unable to disappoint his sister, Minsoo nodded. “Alright, fine. One verse only, okay?” Jane nodded in glee as her brother pulled his guitar out from outside the screen and started playing a Korean Acoustic song while singing to it. It lasted only about forty seconds, but Jane and her friends clapped genuinely. Minsoo was blushing in embarrassment. “Ugh, I think mom’s calling. I have to go. Stay strong, Jane! Bye!” Jane and her friends waved him goodbye as he disconnected the Skype call. Jane turned to Abigail to find her blushing, too.

Do you like him? Jane asked with a giggle.

“He… he sings so well…” Abigail said.

“Yup, she likes him. Jane, what do you have to say about this?” Sebastian asked.

“You two are not alone!” Sam interrupted. Sebastian and Abigail flipped him off while Jane burst in laughter.

“E… enough! Let’s play Overwatch now! Sam, go to your computer while Jane, you turn on Overwatch, now!” Abigail interrupted as she walked to her laptop.

 

Chapter 12! Whew! This is the chapter where things grow. Could it be emotional? Physical? Se... What? Sorry. I hope you enjoy. I researched how the pixelated bachelor/ettes danced in the Flower Festival and tried my best to put that in words.

-Haneul Park: Seb?

-Sebastian Callahan: Yeah?

-Haneul Park: I heard about the Flower Festival that’s going to be held tomorrow from Abby.

-Sebastian Callahan: Oh that?

It’s the ‘Sebastian looks stupid’ day.

Yeah, sounds more appropriate.

-Haneul Park: LOL

Minus one for self loathing.

-Sebastian Callahan: That’s how it is. What’s up?

-Haneul Park: Do you have a dance partner?

A long pause followed before Sebastian started typing.

-Sebastian Callahan: yes.

Sorry

Lewis forced me with Abigail.

-Haneul Park: : (

Okay

See you tomorrow

Sighing by Jane’s response, Sebastian locked his phone. “Was it Jane” Abigail asked, sitting on her floor coushion. The two were in Abigail’s room, practicing for tomorrow’s Flower Dance.

“Yeah.” Sebastian replied. He felt so guilty for what he had said to jane.

“She asked you to be her dance partner, did she?” the purple-haired girl asked as if she had realized something.

“…Yeah.”

“Why didn’t you say yes?!” Abigail exclaimed. “I don’t have to dance if you did!”

“Abby, are you stupid? Lewis literally forced us together! Not to mention your mom being a total boss to you about it! Do you think I have a choice? Even if I did, Lewis will be a douche and prevent Jane from dancing because… you know…”

“Prosthetics?”

“Exactly. I don’t know what she’s going to do.” Sebastian concluded, sighing. Just then, the room door gave a knock.

“Abigail, I can’t hear you two practicing!” Caroline’s voice called. Grunting, Abigail stood up from her floor cushion. Sebastian followed her up as he turned on the boom box that Abigail’s mother provided for the dance practice.

“Let’s practice. Jesus Christ…” Sebastian grunted as he and Abigail moved according to music.


It was the day of the Flower Festival. Sebastian exited from his bathroom all washed up for the horrible day. He saw that Robin had placed a blue jumpsuit with a brown peasant’s cap on his desk while he was still sleeping. Sighing, he changed from his green T-shirt into a white formal shirt. He then tried the jumpsuit on. Tight as usual. ‘This is the most stupid thing to ever exist.’ Sebastian thought as he twisted his body to check on his sides. The arm sleeves had brown rags stitched on for unknown reasons. When he was all set, he walked up from his basement room to join his family in breakfast, awaiting his usual coos of embarrassment from his mother.

“Sebby, you look so…”

“I know where this is going and no, I don’t.” Sebastian interrupted his mother as he sat down on his seat. “I look horrible. You know, those French hobos.”

“How did you know?” Maru jokingly asked. She was still in her pajamas unlike Sebastian.

“Go to hell, Maru.”

“Sebastian?!” Demetrius called with an angry but cool voice.

“Sorry.” Sebastian begrudgingly apologized. Just then, his phone gave an SMS ring. It was from Jane.

-Jane: Hey, I already finished my farm work with Miss Lannister.

He was talking about Marnie.

-Sebastian: Okay. Should I take you to the festival?

-Jane: no, it’s okay.

-Sebastian: K. Cya

“Was it Jane, Sebby?” Robin asked as she placed her empty plate in the sink.

“Yeah. She finished her farm work with Marnie.” Sebastian replied with a sigh.

“Why didn’t you ask her to be her dance partner?”

“Don’t you remember? Lewis forced me with Abigail.” Sebastian replied, covering his face. “I feel so bad.”

“Sebby, aww!” Robin cooed. Sebastian didn’t have the willpower to fight back. “Don’t worry, she’ll find a way.” She said as she patted her son’s back. “Maru, get dressed. We’re going soon.”


When the Callahan family departed from the Carpenter’s Shop and headed their way to the Cindersap Forest through Agria Farm, Sebastian separated to check on Jane’s cottage. His worry overtook him when his door knocks didn’t respond. He had no choice but to peek through the window to find nobody inside. Jane’s computer was on with the main menu of Sins of a Solar Empire displaying on the screen. Sebastian gave a sigh as he walked away from the farm and towards the part of Cindersap Forest where the Flower Festival would take place. Sebastian caught up with his family as he crossed the wooden lank that lead to a remote and flat plain of grass covered with colorful banners. Everyone was here, making him the last person to arrive. As soon as he left the wooden plank, he immediately jogged to Sam and Abigail, who were also wearing their dance clothes. Abigail was wearing a short, flowery dress. “What’s up?” Sam called.

“Not much.” Sebastian replied, giving a sigh.

“He feels guilty for rejecting Jane’s partner offer.” Abigail said, giggling.

“N…no I don’t…” Sebastian tried to refute, but his guilt stopped him. “…She’s right.”

“Aww, I knew that you two are destined to be together!” Sam cooed as Penny wearing a dress similar to Abigail’s approached him. “Hi, sweetie.”

“Hello!” Penny replied as she kissed Sam’s cheek.

“Penny, where’s Jane?” Sebastian asked.

“Jane? I saw her walking around the place. I think I last saw her with Doctor Harvey.” Hearing this, Sebastian bolted to where Harvey was. His tight jumpsuit hindered his movements. When he reached the doctor, Jane wasn’t there.

“Doc, where’s Jane?” Sebastian asked.

“Jane? She walked that way.” Harvey replied, pointing at his said location. “Wait, aren’t you her dance partner?”

“The mayor forced me with Abigail. I would have been if it weren’t for him!” Sebastian replied as he ran towards the place where Harvey pointed. He saw Jane wearing the flowery dress with Alex Mullner and Haley Laveri, the Flower Monarchs. They were to be the center of the Dance, wearing crowns made of flowers.

“…Dance partner?” Alex asked. Jane nodded. “Uh… I’m sorry. You see…”

“Back off, girl.” Haley scoffed as she snickered. “You’re unworthy of the Dance.”

“Haley, that’s too harsh! I’ll convince her…” Alex tried to speak.

“Alex, let me deal with this trash. Get lost before he breaks that chopstick leg!” Haley said as she pushed Jane away and walked away with Alex. Jane struggled to get up as she sobbed. Sebastian couldn’t take it any longer. Knowing that he was too weak for Alex and Haley, he ran to Jane as she was crying. Her dress became dirty due to the blonde girl’s attack.

“Jane?” Sebastian asked as she crouched beside her. He helped her wipe her tears. “Are you okay?” Jane nodded as people started crowding around the two. “Come on, let’s get you up.” Sebastian said as he helped the farmer up.

“Seb, what happened?” Caroline asked.

“It’s Haley. Again.”

“What did she do to her?” Emily asked.

“She pushed her. Not to mention mock her for her disabilities.” Hearing this, Emily gave a sigh of disbelief.

“This is the most unacceptable. I’ll pull her out of the dance.” Lewis said as he stormed to Haley, but Jane stopped him.

Please don’t. I’m not going to dance. Jane typed. Sebastian knew her true intention: She didn’t want to add fuel to the flame. Give her a chance. Please forgive her. Seeing this, the mayor gave a sigh.

“Alright. Remember, Jane. If she does that to you again, she will NOT be forgiven. Okay?” Lewis asked. Jane nodded and the crown dispersed. “Alright, everybody! Two hours until the Dance! Start practicing!” He shouted. All of the young people of Pelican Town started practicing for the Flower Dance as Jane quietly walked to a bench at the corner. Giving a sigh, Sebastian walked to Abigail and began practicing.


It was two in the afternoon when Lewis gathered everybody for the dance. Sam, Penny, Harvey, Maru, Alex, Haley, Shane, Emily, Elliott and Leah positioned themselves for the dance. “Where’s the last couple?” Lewis called as Abigail and Sebastian walked to their positions. “Looks like everyone’s in position.” He said. “Alright, everybody! As a tradition since 1896, the Flower Dance is done to commemorate the end of the plague of 1841 and the sufferings of our ancestors! This is an act of praise to Yoba! Let their actions be never forgotten!” He exclaimed as he turned the boom box on. The speakers started playing a tranquil tune of cello. The dancers started to dap their feet slowly according to the beat. The girls on dresses raised their hips left and right and lifted their skirts slightly to the same direction as their male partners bent their knees and straightened them. As the violins started playing, the boys approached the girls slowly while still bending and straightening their knees. When the piano kicked in, the boys held the girls’ waists while they wrapped their arms around the boys’ necks. Sebastian continued to observe Jane as she helplessly watched the Dance alone. “What’s wrong?” Abigail asked.

“S…she’s crying.” Sebastian replied as he saw tears roll down the farmer’s cheeks.

“It’s all Lewis’s fault.” Abigail whispered as Sebastian twirled her around.

“I know.”

“What are you…? I mean, we going to do? I don’t know how to cheer her up.”

“Me too.”

“We can throw her a surprise game night… or a sleepover!”

“Abby, we’re not kids!” Sebastian hissed, but fell into deep thought. “…Actually, we can do that.”

“Okay. That’s one way for you two to get together.” Abigail joked as she twirled around once more.

“Jesus Christ, Abby…” Sebastian grunted as the music and the dance started to fade. It was over. Everybody who didn’t dance clapped for the dancers as they ran off the ground blushing.

“I know you’ll find a way, Seb.” Abigail said, winking. Suddenly, something sparked in his mind. That’s it! All he needed was an empty field and a boom box.


The sun was starting to set when people started to leave the Festival grounds. Sebastian saw Penny and Maru comforting the weeping Jane who refused to leave the bench. Sebastian’s heart started to race. He couldn’t bear the guilt as he approached Lewis. “Mr. McLengst.” Sebastian called.

“What is it?” Lewis asked.

“May I ask why you’ve forced me with Abigail for the dance?”

“Oh, uh… How should I say this…” Lewis hesitated.

“Is it because she can’t walk properly? Is it because Abigail’s parents told you to do so? Is it because you fear that she’ll embarrass herself and ruin the festival?!” Sebastian asked with anger building up.

“…Yes.” Lewis replied. “You were the only one capable of dancing with Abigail. It is the rule to have at least six couples to dance. Plus, as you have said, Jane would have embarrassed herself should she make a terrible mistake during the Dance. It’s better to be safe than sorry, Sebastian. Besides, we thought that she didn’t want to dance.”

“Then why did she wear the dress?! She asked me to be her dance partner yesterday! Do you know how people think of me as now?!” Sebastian shouted.

“Sebastian, I am truly sorry. I would have let you if it weren’t for Abigail’s mother. Really. I can’t fix the past, Sebastian. Is there something I can help you?” Hearing this, Sebastian immediately made his decision.

“I want to borrow the radio.” Sebastian said, pointing at the boom box.

“Very well, then. I can do that. Remember to return it by tomorrow.” Lewis nodded as he walked away. Sebastian grabbed the boom box and approached Jane, who was still crying on the bench. Penny and Maru weren’t doing a good job in comforting her.

“Gals, can you give us some…. Uh… personal space? Especially you, Maru. This is between the two of us.” Sebastian said.

“Why?” Maru asked.

“…Because if this gets leaked, your intestines will be smothered on Demetrius’ face. Now get out.” Sebastian replied. The two girls nodded as they walked away. Seeing that the area was void of people, Sebastian stood next to Jane.

“Jane?” Jane looked up, tears soaking her cheek. A bit of her dirty dress was soaked with it. “Can you follow me?” Sebastian asked, holding his hand. Jane hesitantly accepted it and the raven-haired boy helped her up. He escorted her to the middle. “Did you practice for the Dance? I’m just curious.” Jane nodded.

Why? Jane typed.

“…Because I want to make it up for you.” Sebastian replied as he walked five steps away from her and turned the boom box on. “Come on, Jane. Follow me.” Sebastian said as he bent and straightened his knees following the slow beat. Jane couldn’t help but raise her hips left and right followed by her dress lifting. She gave a sheepish smile as Sebastian approached her following the beat. Finally, he lightly held her waist as Jane wrapped her arms around his neck. Both of them blushed as the two swayed left and right. Suddenly, Jane’s prosthetic right hand left his neck and reached for Sebastian’s hand. She held it gently and raised it sideways. “That’s not part of the dance.” Sebastian said. Jane gave a shrug as she continued to sway left and right. Despite not being able to bend her knees due to her prosthetic leg, the dance was easy as she gave a twirl while holding Sebastian’s hand tightly so that she wouldn’t trip. The two continued dancing until the song faded away. When they released themselves, they suddenly heard claps beside them. The townspeople had gathered around the two.

“Way to go, Seb!” Sam shouted.

“I’ve recorded all of this! I’ll post this in Facebook for you, Jane!” Abigail giggled. She was recording the entire situation with her phone. Sebastian and jane couldn’t help but blush. The farmer bowed to the crowd as Sebastian quickly escorted her out from the dance grounds while trying his best to cover his rosy cheeks.


The sun was nowhere to be found when Sebastian and Jane arrived at Agria Farm. The surrounding farmland waved around by the soft breeze. As soon as the raven-haired boy stopped at the porch of the cottage, Jane hugged him as tight as a boa constrictor. The two couldn’t help but heat up.

Thank you so much Jane typed when she released Sebastian.

“I’m your personal helper, Jane. I did what I thought I had to do.” Sebastian replied, patter her back. “Ugh, this jumpsuit is so uncomfortable. Confirms the fact that it’s the worst invention made by humanity.” He grunted as he pulled on his jumpsuit, trying to give space for air for his constricted body.

Do you want to stay here for a while? Jane asked. Sebastian felt a weird sensation. He would normally reject such offer and get back to the Carpenter’s Shop as soon as possible, but now, he wanted to accept.

“Of course!” Sebastian exclaimed. Damnit, Seb! He scolded himself.

Wait until I change. Jane typed as she closed the door behind him. She opened the door again in her usual indoor clothes. She handed him what looked like a military uniform.

“Is it for me?” Jane nodded as she exited the cottage and let Sebastian in. He shut the door and started to undress. He quickly removed his jumpsuit with extreme difficulty and tried on the clothes that the farmer gave him. It turned out to be a military uniform that Jane’s brother Minsoo wore that he gifted her. It was a bit too big for Sebastian. ‘How big is her brother?!’ he thought as he let Jane back in.

You look so small in that! Jane typed, giggling.

“I know. I’m a small guy.” Sebastian replied. “…Says the girl who’s shorter…” He muttered. Jane laughed as she slapped his shoulder.

You wanna play SOASE (Sins of a Solar Empire)? Jane asked as she pointed at her computer.

“Sure, as long as you let me play as the Vasari Loyalists.” Sebastian replied as he jumped on the computer chair. Jane observed him play Sins of a Solar Empire until the clock struck eight. “It’s time for me to go.” The raven-haired boy said as he saved the game and quit. He stood up to exit the cottage. When he was outside of the cottage, Jane grabbed him by his arm as if she had something to tell him. When he turned to face the farmer awaiting her question, Jane leaned forward and planted a long kiss on his cheek. She then hugged him tightly, both of their cheeks fiery red. When she released him, Sebastian bid her goodbye and walked out of the farm through the northern exit that lead to the mountain, wearing Jane’s brother’s bulky uniform while holding his jumpsuit in a shopping bag. As he walked, however, something like a surge grew in his body as small thoughts of images of Jane started to appear in his mind. What was this feeling?

 

Chapter 13 is here! I can't believe that this fanfic has reached 1000 readers! Thank you so much for reading this fluffy fanfic!

Jane couldn’t stop thinking about the Flower Dance. The kiss on Sebastian’s cheek was all that was in her mind. Plus, the fact that this raven-haired boy personally danced with her made Jane’s heart skipped a beat. Rolling around on her bed, she couldn’t find a way to sleep. ‘I seriously can’t find a way to sleep.’ She thought, fumbling through her Facebook on her phone. Indeed, Abigail had really posted the video that she had talked about after the dance. ‘Should I watch this?’ Jane asked herself, knowing about the cringe that would follow if she did. She decided to watch it, seeing that twenty people had left likes. In fact, she needed to see how horrible she danced. As she watched herself and Sebastian dance according to the music, she constantly avoided the screen, cringing and blushing. When the video was finally over, Jane scrolled to the comments section to find her Korean friends have left some words.

-Alex Mullner: LOL the goth and the mute danced?

-Haley Laveri: Wow I dind’t expect the chopstick leg to have a partner.

-Sam Arvidel: Gj Abigail!

=Abigail Berneau’s reply:

-Sebastian Callahan: Wtf really?

=Abigail Berneau’s reply: I told you that I’ll post it!

-Minsoo Park (Jane’s Brother): I knew it! I knew that the two will go far!

=Sam Arvidel’s reply:

=Abigail Berneau’s reply: Lol I kow!

=Minsoo Park’s reply: I’m showing this to my parents

=Abigail Berneau’s reply: yeessssssss

=Minsoo Park’s reply: Who the hell is Haley, anyway? Who gave her the permission to insult my sister?

=Sam Arvidel: Looks like SOMEONE’s in trouble!

-Jiwoo Bae: ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

-Hyunsoo Kim: Holy cow, this is Haneul? ㅋㅋㅋ(In Korean)

=Jiwoo Bae’s reply: She devinitely has a crush on that Sebastian guy. (In Korean)

=Hyunsoo Kim: ㅋㅋㅋㅋ

-Minseo Lee: Wow ㅋㅋㅋ (In Korean)

Jane quickly exited Facebook and buried her face on the pillow. Never in her life has she been this embarrassed. She still couldn’t sleep despite the clock telling that the time was 2: 47 AM. She needed to do something if she is not going to sleep. Wait… that’s right! Videogames! She limped out of her bed and powered her computer on. She turned on Overwatch and started playing on ranked and normal matches. She normally plays as Ana, Pharah or D Va. For some reason, Jane wanted to play as Widowmaker for tonight. Maybe her current mood of wishing to stay away from the crowd made her heart choose this hero. She took her spot and sniped the enemy team while supporting her team with her ultimate ability. After two matches, she switched her character to Zenyatta. As she played, however, she noticed two familiar IDs in her team: ‘Star98’ and ‘SHADOW’. Jane immediately knew who they were: Sam and Sebastian. Although the coincidence made the mute farmer happy, she decided to remain silent for the whole match. She saw Sam play as Reinhardt while Sebastian as Bastion. She knew that they were going for the shield-minigun strategy. Shrugging, Jane decided to butt in by providing a D Va beside her with an Orb of Harmony as she attacked through Sam’s shield. This continued for a few matches which resulted in victories. Sebastian ended up receiving the most Play of the Games but it was Jane who was upvoted as the Epic player the most. Jane yawned as she checked the time. It was already 4 o’clock in the morning, yet drowsiness was nowhere to be found. ‘Maybe I won’t sleep today.’ Jane thought as she closed Overwatch and turned on Sins of a Solar Empire. When she saw Sebastian’s save file that he made in the afternoon, she was tempted to see what was going on there, but she didn’t want to tamper with it, thus starting a new game as the Advent Rebels.


Jane’s eyes were concentrated on a fleet battle when the door knocked behind her. “Jane?” Sebastian’s voice called. The farmer snapped back to reality with a gasp and checked the clock. Quarter past 7 in the morning. She quickly saved and quit the game. She tried to run for the door, but tripped on her way. She crawled to the door and twisted the doorknob. When the door opened, it hit Jane’s left index finger. “Oh my god, Jane!” Sebastian exclaimed as he knelt down. “Are you okay?” Jane nodded as she squeezed her index finger. He grabbed her hand to check if it was really okay. As Sebastian’s hand touched Jane’s, a warm sensation spread between the two. The two started at each other’s eyes until a blush formed on their cheeks. Sebastian looked away but Jane’s eyes couldn’t unlock from him. “L… let this work.” Sebastian said as he helped Jane up. As Jane’s eyes concentrated on the raven-haired boy, Sebastian saw the big dark bags below her eyes. “How long did you sleep?” Jane started to hesitate. Her phone was on her desk, making her unable to answer him. “You didn’t sleep, didn’t you?” Sebastian said as if he realized something. Jane limped to the desk for her phone, but she found the battery almost depleted. Sighing, she limped for a pencil and paper and wrote her response.

Yeah.

“Are you serious, Jane?! Why?!” Sebastian scolded. “Is that why I saw your Battle Tag for two hours?”

I thought you didn’t know.

“Don’t lie, Jane. You don’t know how hectic the voice chat between Sam and I were when we saw ‘FlyToTheSky’ in our team for ten matches! Don’t forget the fact you’ve always stuck close to us during payload maps!” Sebastian shook his head. “Should I tell you something?” Jane’s ears twitched as she yawned. “Go to sleep. Now. I’ll be doing the farm work for today.”

But it’s strawberry harvest today! I want to harvest them! Jane wrote.

“Jane, no. I’ll water everything and harvest whatever crops are ready. If you don’t sleep right now, I’ll… I’ll…” Sebastian paused, making Jane think. Does he know any of her dark secrets? “… Ugh, I don’t know.” Never mind. “What matters is that you have to sleep. Please, get to your bed.” Jane giggled as she nodded. She then proceeded to hug him before he closed the door behind her. “Is it okay if you leave the door unlocked?” Sebastian asked behind the door. Smiling, she gave a thumbs-up through the window. “Okay. You better go to sleep!” The raven-haired boy said as Jane heard footsteps move away from the cottage. She wished to watch her friend work, but Sebastian’s words were right: She was really tired. Jane plugged her phone to her charger and limped to her bed. She removed her prosthetic leg and fell into deep slumber.


Jane woke up by the sounds of muffled gunshots and announcer voices. Her head was dizzy due to the long sleep she had “Oh, you’ve awoken.” Sebastian voice said. Jane rubbed her eyes to see what was going on. She saw Sebastian sitting on a table chair, watching YouTube videos on his phone. With groggy eyes and sore throat, Jane grabbed her phone and started typing.

Did you sell everything?

“No. Everything’s in the baskets beside your bed… and on your table.” Sebastian replied, pointing at the ground below her. Jane rolled over to the edge of her bed to find three baskets filled with fresh farm produce. She looked at the table to find a large basket filled with something red. Immediately knowing what it is, Jane quickly reattached her prosthetic leg and limped to the table. She found that the basket was filled to the brim with strawberries, her favorite fruit. She bound around with glee by how many there were and how fresh they looked.

I really wanted to pick them myself! Jane typed.

“Well, it’s your fault that you’ve stayed up for the whole night.” Sebastian shrugged. Pouting, Jane took one strawberry and popped it in her mouth while making sure to not eat the grassy part. As soon as her teeth made contact and crushed the fruit, the juices coated her mouth with sweetness, making the farmer squeal with delight. “Is it that good?” Sebastian asked. Jane nodded as she handed him a fruit. “Thanks.” He said as he took the fruit and chewed on it. During the process, Jane blushed.

‘Why am I so like this?’ Jane thought.

“Hey, you’re right… It’s really good!” Sebastian complimented. Jane gave a disarming smile as she stared at her phone’s clock. 2: 15 PM. “You’ve slept for a long time.” Sebastian remarked.

I’m bored. Take me somewhere!

“Somewhere? Uh…” Sebastian hesitated. “…is my house okay?” Jane nodded in response.

Let’s take the scenic route!

“What? You mean that you want to take a walk around the whole town?!” The farmer nodded. “Ugh, fine. Let’s go after we sell those. Let’ keep some of the strawberries.” Sebastian grunted as he picked up two of the baskets.


Jane and Sebastian walked out of Agria Farm and arrived at Pelican Town. The two were greeted by the townspeople with a mixture of warm greetings and the mocking of yesterday’s event (Which Sebastian hated both). Sam and Abigail were the prime people who made fun of the two with questions like did they watched the video that the purple-haired girl posted. Sebastian flipped them off as Jane covered her face and her blush. As they climbed the mountain, they encountered Lewis staring at the large dilapidated building that Jane had always questioned about. “What a painful sight.” Lewis sighed. Jane approached the mayor with Sebastian following “Hello, you two.” The mayor greeted them.

This building is a bit familiar. Jane typed.

“It should. Your grandfather took you and your friends here to play her every weekend when you were a child.” Lewis replied. Suddenly, memories started to flood into her mind. She gave a big smile when a memory of her playing with Abigail and Sam in front of the building flew into her mind. “There you go.” Lewis said.

It’s the Community Center, isn’t it? Jane asked. Sebastian nodded.

“That’s right.” Sebastian said.

“Your grandfather was a great contributor for the renovation of the building at 1973. Our great grandparents build it as a town hall during 1866. The Center was so lively with people performing numerous activities; let it be entertainment and service. Now, it’ slike what you’re looking at because… well, computers.” Lewis added. “Joja Corporation has been nagging me with selling the building.” The mayor said, sighing. Jane frowned by the word ‘Joja’. “The Town could use the money, but perhaps it’s my old man’s habit that’s preventing me from doing it. Since that twenty-nine out of thirty people have a membership card of JojaMart, I’ll sell the building when one more person registers for it.”

I wanna see what’s inside! Jane typed.

“Jane, I don’t think….” Sebastian stopped when Jane gave him a look of plea. Blushing, Sebastian gave in and nodded.

“Alright, let’s go in.” Lewis said as he fumbled in his pocket. He pulled out a rusty key and used it to unlock the massive double door. Jane and Sebastian followed the mayor into the Community Center. When the farmer entered the building, sadness enveloped every part of her body. This wasn’t what she had remembered. The windows were broken; mildew grew on the walls, giving them a disgusting darkish green color. The floor was cracked with chips of granite and wood scattered all across the ground. Strangely, there was a small object that resembled a tree hut on the left corner.

“Jesus Christ, this place is like the Outlast.” Sebastian whispered.

“What’s this?” Lewis asked himself as he stared at the hut. “Looks like Vincent and Jas have been playing inside here.” Jane stared at Sebastian with a confused look.

“They’re the young kids of Pelican Town. Vincent is Sam’s brother.” Sebastian whispered. Jane nodded. As she looked around her surroundings trying to see where her memories took place, she saw something appear next to the large fireplace at the center of the building. It was a small green entity with large eyes. It resembled an apple. Jane gasped as she pointed at the entity.

“What’s wrong?” Lewis asked as he turned around to see what the farmer was pointing at. However, the entity vanished. “…Are you sick?” Jane shook her head. In fact, Sebastian’s face was pale while he was facing the direction of Jane’s finger. Just when Jane thought that everything was relaxed, the same entity appeared on the same spot. It was waving at her. She gave another gasp, but it disappeared without a trace.

“I saw something!” Sebastian exclaimed.

“You two are worrying me here.” Lewis replied, seeing that the duo had dilated eyes. Jane was sure that she wasn’t hallucinating; the entity looked to real. “Perhaps this is common. It wouldn’t be a surprise to find rats here.” The mayor chuckled, taking a look at his watch. “Oh dear, it’s lunchtime. I’ll leave this door unlocked. I’m sure you’ll find the rat.” He said as he walked out of the building. As soon as Lewis left he building, Jane started typing on her phone with Sebastian staring at its screen

How did it look like?

“I… it looked like a green apple with… uh… cute eyes?” Sebastian replied.

That’s exactly what I saw!

“Exactly. What do you say? Should we… uh… investigate?” Just as Sebastian finished talking, the two heard unknown noises coming from their left.

It’s coming from that room. Jane typed, pointing at the room with blue walls corrupted by mildew. Sebastian slowly walked to the room with Jane limping along. When the two peeked in the room, their jaws dropped at the sight. Twelve of the entities that the two saw at the center room with various colors were gathered around a purple entity, which was shivering. When one of them turned to face Jane and Sebastian, it gave a chirp, making all of the entities disappear into thin air. When the smoke cleared, all that was left was the purple entity that was in the middle and a golden plate behind it. When Jane slowly approached the entity, she noticed that one of its eyes had a very large yellow scar as if something clawed it. It looked like as if it was feeble as if it was wounded, capturing Jane’s heart. She sat down in front o fit and lent it her left hand. Then entity slowly approached her and held out its pygmy arm to her, touching her hand. As soon as it made contact, something seemed to flash in her body. What was this feeling? It felt like a ribbon tied into a knot.

“It seems to like you.” Sebastian remarked as he walked to the golden plate. By then, the entity had sat on Jane’s right knee and stared at her on her eyes, making the farmer’s heart skip a beat.

I know. Jane typed, giggling.

“Wanna keep it?” Sebastian asked. “I don’t know, but they look like they are magical.” He added as he inspected the golden plate. Jane gave a shrug. Magical or not, she was always okay with making a new friend. “What’cha gonna name it?” Jane paused to think. What would suit its appearance? Gamja (Korean for potato)? No, that’s too silly. Kong (Korean for bean)? No. Suddenly something snapped in her mind. Yes, that’s it! The entity’s dewdrop-like appearance was the answer!

Iseul (Korean for Dewdrop)! Jane typed. The entity chirped in happiness. It seemed to have understood her thoughts. What’s written there? Jane asked, pointing at the golden plate.

“Some… strange language that I’ve never seen before.” Sebastian replied. “Hey, uh… let’s go back. We’ve been here for too long.

May I take this buddy with me? It’s so adorable! The entity, seeming to read Jane’s thoughts, bounced up and down on her shoulder as if it liked the idea.

“Sure. Come on, let’s go.” Sebastian replied as he helped Jane up with Iseul clinging on her shoulder.


When the duo returned to Agria Farm, Jane noticed that there was a letter in the mailbox. Was this like so since morning? Jane asked, but Sebastian shook his head. Shrugging, the farmer opened the mailbox to find a purple envelope inside. She tore it open and read the contents inside.

Young Ones,

I have sensed that you have found something interesting in the Community Center. Come to my tower at the west of the forest. I have your answers. The spirit await their salvation, descendant of the Stardrop Farmer.

-The Wizard

As soon as Jane finished reading, the letter disintegrated into fine dust and fell to the ground. “Whoa, what the hell?!” Sebastian exclaimed. Jane was no different. She was curious about this wizard.

Who is the wizard? Jane typed.

“Oh, it’s the guy who lives in that tower at Cindersap Forest. Why?”

I want to see him.

“What?! Are you crazy? He might be a druglord!”

Can you explain the letter, then? Jane asked, pointing at the dust that used to be the letter. Sebastian dropped his head in defeat. Jane knew that there was no question about the mystery of this wizard despite there being some fear in her.

“…Fine. I won’t be responsible for us being hurt, okay?” Jane nodded in response. She let Iseul jump off of her and onto her bed.

‘Make yourself home.’ Jane thought with the entity chirping in reply. The duo then walked south towards Cindersap Forest. The two walked past trees and bushes while greeting Marnie and Leah along the way. When they climbed some stairs up a cliff, they stood in front of the door of the mysterious tower.

‘How did I not know of this place before?’ Jane thought as she tried to knock on the door, but it immediately swung open, revealing a purple haired man with a beard of the same color wearing a black cape and a pointy cowboy hat of the same color.

“Ah, you have set your doubts aside. Come in.” The man said with a very thick and low Russian accent, letting the two young people in the tower. The interior was very dimly lit due to the fact that candles were the only sources of light here. The walls were filled to the brim with books about alchemy, supernatural beings and spells. One small shelf beside a trapdoor at the far side of the tower contained what looked like necronomicons. A white heptagram was visible on the right side of the tower while a hug cauldron filled with a viscous green liquid bubbled on the opposite side. “Perhaps you wish to know who I am.” The man said.

“You’ve better have not invited us here for drugs.” Sebastian said. His right hand was tingling near a bulge on his jeans pocket. Jane couldn’t exactly see what it was, but it looked metallic. Could it be a weapon? If possible, a firearm?

“Doubt, I can sense. I understand. You naïve commons tend to fear the extraordinary. Just like you, descendant of the Stardrop Farmer.” The man said to Jane. “I am Milosz Rasmodius, the Valley’s 502nd Wizard. I am the guardian of the Seven Elements, to name one of my purposes.” Jane nodded with slight fear and confusion mixed with her emotions. She reached for her phone to speak, but the wizard stopped her. “There is no need to use that atrocious machine. I shall listen to what you think.” The wiard said.

“Why did you call us here?” Sebastian asked.

“As I have written before, I have your answers to your question.” The wizard replied, walking to the heptagram. With a murmuring chant, the seven candles that were on the points of the heptagram ignited with green flames. “Behold!” The wizard shouted as two green orbs of magic formed on his palms. The orbs hit the center of the heptagram, causing a white flash followed by a white circle after the flash dissipated. There was the entity that Jane and Sebastian saw in the Community Center.

‘Yes! That’s the thing that I saw!’ Jane thought, bouncing in recognition.

“Indeed. They call themselves the Junimos. I see that… you have one in possession in your farm.” The wizard replied.

‘But it came to me!’

“If it accepted you as such, then let it be. In fact, it is their will.” Rasmodius assured, and then concentrated back to the Junimo that was in the center of the heptagram. “Hmm… this one refuses to talk to me. I shall let it go.” He said as he murmured a chant. Instantly, the candles extinguished themselves and the Junimo disappeared. “It questions me of why they would be dwelling in the Community Center. Anyway, are there any more questions?” Sebastian, tension seemingly gone, approached the wizard.

“I saw a gold plate with… I think their language written.”

“Is that so?” The wizard asked. “Hmm… never have I seen this. Wait here. I shall return shortly.” Within seconds, the wizard disappeared in a flash. Shocked, Jane and Sebastian looked at each other.

“I… I was wrong about the drug lord thing.” Sebastian said.

This is weird. Jane typed. Just then, the door opened behind the two, startling them as the wizard entered the tower.

“I have read the plate.” He said as he walked to the table beside the heptagram. “It was hard to read, but I have managed to decipher it. Let’s see…
‘We, the Junimos are more than glad to aid you to redeem the Magic of the Valley. Give us the gifts of the Valley and we shall help restore its glory. If you truly wish to aid us, it is necessary to be One with the Forest.’”

‘What does that mean?’ Jane thought.

“That, I know not.” The wizard replied, walking to the bubbling cauldron. “As the Junimos said… One with the Forest…” The wizard fell into deep thought, making Jane and Sebastian exchange looks of confusion.

Do you have any idea? Jane typed, but the raven-haried boy shook his head. Suddenly, the wizard gave a jolt, startling Sebastian.

“A-ha! Yes, that is it! How foolish was I to have the answer right on my nose and not know about it!” The wizard exclaimed.

“What the hell are you talking about?” Sebastian asked.

“This! The Potion of Kindness… made with the elements of the forest.” The wizard continued, filling two wooden bowls with thee viscous fluid. “Drink, you two! Let the essence of the Forest permeate through your bodies!” He said as he handed the bowls to the duo. Jane took it unquestioningly. The wizard’s magic was convincing enough, although she didn’t know what consequence that might follow should she drink.

“Ugh, Jane, I don’t think this is a good idea.” Sebastian grunted, but seeing that Jane had gulped down the potion, Sebastian rolled his eyes as he followed. The duo started to feel dizzy as everything around Jane became distorted. She fell to the ground as the wizard murmur chanted spells and her and her friend’s world became dark.

 

Chapter 14 follows the previous chapter with a flashback/dream from Sebastian!

10-year old Sebastian observed as his mother struck a tree down with her axe. He looked around the forest around him and found what looked like an entrance to some place. “Mommy, where does that take us to?” He asked.

“Oh? That leads to Mr. Park’s farm! Do you want to go there?” Robin asked, but Sebastian shook his head. “Sebby, it’s not your fault that Jane is hurt. You don’t have to be sad!”

“But mommy, I.. I… ran like a baby when she got hurt by that monster.”

“Sebby?” Robin said with a serious face. “I know that you want to go see her. I’m letting you!” After a long pause, Sebastian nodded.

“Yes, mommy.” The raven-haired child said as he headed for Agria Farm with a slow pace. When he arrived, he was greeted by a wide variety of summer crops. There were patches of blueberries that spread from where he was standing to the other end of the farm. As he walked around, trying to remember the tales that his true father (Whom he doesn’t know the name) told him, the various types of crops made the child want to touch every single part of the plants. As Sebastian walked to the center of the farm, he noticed that there was a patch of plants that he had never seen before. As he approached, he saw purple star-shaped fruit growing from each plant. Curious, he picked one from the plant closest to him. ‘What is this?’ Sebastian thought as he inspected the fruit. Just then, he saw a large shadow grow behind him. Trembling in fear, he turned around to find an old man in farmer’s attire staring at him. “Please don’t hurt me, I’m sorry for trespassing…” Sebastian pleaded as he knelt down, awaiting his demise followed by a… chuckle?

“Trespassing?” The old man repeated, followed by a soft laughter. “Everybody is welcome to Agria Farm! Aren’t you Robin’s son?” he asked.

“…Yes.” Sebastian replied.

“Well, don’t worry boy! I’m Jane’s grandfather!” The old man introduced himself as he helped the boy get to his feet. “I see you have picked yourself a Stardrop! It’s good to try new things! Go ahead, try it! It’s the most delicious think in the world.” With his words, Sebastian took a bite of the purple fruit. As soon as his teeth crushed it into pulp, its juices coated his mouth. It was the most delicious thing he had ever tasted in his life. In fact, it filled his mind with the thoughts of his father. He felt energized. “So, how was it?” Jane’s grandfather asked.

“It… it’s so delicious! I… I… I don’t know how it tastes like.” Sebastian replied.

“Of course you can’t! Nobody can describe the taste, boy. Not even me.” The old man replied. “Are you here to see my granddaughter?”

“Y… yes.”

“No need to be shy, boy! Jane is fine. Follow me!” The little girl’s grandfather held Sebastian’s shoulder and walked to the cottage. “하늘아, 친구왔다! (Haneul, a friend is here!)” The old man called as he opened the door. Immediately, the young Asian girl who approached the raven-haired child few days ago bolted from her bed and ran to her grandfather, hugging him. She was holding a notebook and a pencil in her hand.

“Um… hi.” Sebastian sheepishly greeted Jane. A small blush formed in his cheeks when he saw her glittery eyes. Jane smiled at him and started writing. She still made inaudible noises because she still couldn’t get used to being mute.

‘Do you want to go play in the fields?’

“Uh…” Sebastian hesitated. By the time he tried to speak, Jane pulled him outside, giggling. Her laugh seemed to be contagious as the boy started to laugh along and chase the farmer’s granddaughter around, occasionally falling on the plants.


The sun was almost down when Robin was speaking to Jane’s grandfather about how her son was doing. Jane and Sebastian were playing Pokémon Platinum on the girl’s DS when Robin approached her son. “Sebby, do you want to do a sleepover with Jane today?” She asked. Hearing this, Jane nodded vigorously, making Sebastian sheepishly nod. “Aww, you two are so cute together. Okay, Sebby! See you tomorrow! Have fun!” The carpenter chirped as she waved her son goodbye for the night. After a few hours of playtime, Jane’s grandfather told the children to go to bed. When he saw that Jane’s bed was actually double-sized, he started to feel awkward about sleeping on the bed. This would be the first time sleeping next to a girl. Jane, in the other hand, on her pajamas, pouted as she dragged him in. She kissed the raven-haired child on the cheek after turning the lamp off, letting Sebastian hide his rosy cheeks with the consuming darkness and Jane’s giggles.


Sebastian mumbled as he slowly opened his eyes. He was still groggy due to his unexpected slumber, but he remembered the strange wizard making him drink the so called Potion of Kindness with Jane. Speaking of the farmer, Sebastian felt out of place when he rubbed his eyes. He would normally be greeted by the dark, dusty and nearly empty atmosphere of his basement room, but this was different. The room he was in was too bright and feminine scents ticked his nose. Where was he? Could it be… ‘No. Oh no.’ Sebastian thought as he looked to his left. What he saw horrified him: He saw Jane sleeping on his arm. The raven-haired boy have a gasp as he bolted up, making Jane wake up from her slumber and give a short scream. “W… what the hell happened?!” Sebastian exclaimed. He was still on the clothes that he wore yesterday while Jane was still in her work attire. Just like the raven-haired boy was, Jane was confused about the situation the two were in with rosy cheeks. Sebastian took a glance at his phone screen to find that it was 5:15 AM. There were sixteen missed calls from his mother along with several SMS from her asking about his whereabouts. ‘I’m screwed.’ Sebastian thought. He saw Jane looking at her pet Junimo in the name of Iseul, but when he approached the two, he noticed something. It was a voice. No. Jane is mute. It only meant one thing: It was coming from the Junimo.

“You’re awake so early?” The Junimo asked. Jane gave a gasp of surprise as she stared at Iseul.

“Don’t; you think it could be because of the potion?” Sebastian whispered into Jane’s ears.

“You two are one with the Forest! That’s how you can understand me.” Iseul replied. Sebastian observed Jane and Iseul share a conversation with one another. Jane spoke using her mind while Iseul replied with words. The raven-haired boy continued to observe until he could see the sun rise in the window.

“…I don’t need a hut. I feel better sleeping next to you.” Iseul concluded. Jane gave a smile as she leaned to kiss the Junimo’s forehead.

I’ll go take a shower. Jane typed to Sebastian as she walked into the bathroom. When he heard the door close, he turned to Iseul, who was eyeing the farmer too.

“I have some question.” Sebastian said.

“Go ahead.” Iseul replied.


“…Come to think about it, today’s Friday. Do you know what that means?” Sebastian asked as he approached Jane while she was watering her plants. Jane stared at him as if she was waiting for his answer. “It’s Saloon Night. Think about all of the things people will say to us.” Hearing this, Jane blushed. She would be teased again not only by Abigail or Sam, but by everybody. She pulled out her phone and typed.

Today’s also her sign-language class. I happened to forget preparing today’s class.

“What? Does that mean I don’t have to get my homework checked?”

I’ll at least do that. Sebastian gave a sigh of defeat as Iseul giggled on Jane’s shoulder. With the work done on the farm, the two walked back into the cottage and sat on the table. Jane looked at Sebastian with her signature disarming smile as the raven-haired boy recited his homework. He tried his best to interpret some sentenced with his hands. While doing so, he couldn’t help but blush whenever his eyes locked to hers, making Jane blush too. When Sebastian finally completed his last sentence, Jane gave a squeal of delight as she gave him a high-five. No homework for today. Jane wrote on her notebook.

“Really? YES!” Sebastian exclaimed with some joking attitude.

Do you want to stay here for longer? Jane asked.

“I don’t mind, but what are we going to do?” A long pause followed and Jane wrote her response.

Let’s just go outside I want to visit the Library.

“Well, anything’s better than staying outside and eye contact.” Sebastian grunted as he received a text message from Sam.

-Sam Arvidel” Yo wanna come over?

Uh oh. Sebastian scrambled through his mind to search for solution. By the time he focused back to reality, Jane was peaking at the phone screen. She immediately started scribbling on her note.

You can just drop me off at the library and go meet him. Sebastian couldn’t refuse.

“Yeah, I think I can do that.” Sebastian replied as he received another text from Sam.

-Sam Arvidel: Bro?

-Sebastian Callahan: Sure omw

-Sam Arvidel: k cya

“Alright, let’s go. Sam’s gonna whine when I’m late.” Sebastian said, helping Jane stand up. The farmer patted the Junimo before setting off to Pelican Town.


Jane and Sebastian arrived at the Stardew Valley Library and Archeology Center to find the place quite empty. There were quite a few books missing in the shelves. The only people that were in the building was Penny and Professor Gunther Von Esling, the owner of the establishment. “Guten Tag, Herr Sebastian! Are you here for the new science fiction books?” Gunther greeted the raven-haired boy with a heavy German accent. As soon as Sebastian shook his head in response., the man turned his attention to Jane. “Ah, I suppose you are the new farmer? Das ist gut! You are always welcome here!” Jane smiled at the professor, and then typed her words for Sebastian.

I’ll leave it to myself.

“Alright, then. See you. Text me when you’re bored of this place, yeah?” Jane nodded as she limped towards Penny. Smiling, Sebastian exited the building and headed to Sam’s house. As he walked, he started to question himself. Why would Jane blush whenever his name was mentioned? Most importantly, why does HE blush himself? Recently his mind was starting to be slowly consumed by thoughts of the farmer, making him lose attention to his programming duties. As he thought deeply, he coughed. He wiped his mouth to find blood smothered on his arm. It wasn’t just droplets, but a giant patch of it. The red iron-scented liquid dripped to the ground. Shocked, Sebastian quickly wiped it on his black shirt, leaving a darker smudge on it. He continued his walk towards Sam’s house where he was greeted by the blonde boy with a high-five. Sam made Sebastian follow him inside his room. It was large and was almost filled with guitars of all sorts. Right next to his bed was a gaming computer with a red drum set beside the machine. “So, why did you invite me? Jamming session’s tomorrow, you know.” Sebastian asked.

“I know, but I’m here to interrogate you.” Sam replied, picked up an electric guitar.

“Well, spit it out.”

“Everybody heard about yesterday’s event.”

“What do you mean?”

“You slept in Jane’s cottage.”

“Jesus Christ, even YOU know about it?!” Sebastian exclaimed, flabbergasted.

“Do you think I would ignore the news about you and Jane? You are an idiot, Seb.” Sam replied laughing as he played a riff. “Tell me. What happened?”

“Dude, it’s nothing. I swear.” Sebastian lied.

“Nope! Tell me, now.” Sam refused, standing up and approached Sebastian cheek.

“FINE!” Sebastian snapped. “We went to the wizard’s tower.”

“…What?”

“The man in there made us drink this…”

“…Booze? That explains everything.” Sam scoffed.

“It’s not booze!” Sebastian exclaimed. “it’s a potion, okay?”

“I don’t believe you.”

“I didn’t expect you to, anyway. How the hell am I going to explain this to mom and Demetrius?” Sebastian asked himself, covering his face.

“Just say that you fell asleep in Jane’s farm… or you collapsed because you worked too hard…” Sam suggested. Sebastian thought for a while He was running out of choices. He couldn’t think of any other option. Sighing, the raven-haired boy opened his mouth.

“Okay, fine. I’ll say that I fell unconscious. This’ll be my proof.” He said showing the smudge of blood on his shirt.

“What’s that?” Sam asked.

“Blood. Don’t ask why.” Sebastian replied, sitting on Sam’s computer chair. Just as he was about to brose what game this blonde haired boy had…

“You know, I’m going to go pick up Penny.”

“I have to escort Jane to the Saloon.” Sebastian stood up.

“I knew you had something about her.” Sam smirked.

“Shut that pie hole.” The raven0haired boy flipped him off.

 

Chapter 15! Wow, this took longer than expected!

Do you like teaching children? Jane asked Penny with sign language.

“Why, of course I do! It’s not easy, but I believe that someone should do the job to teach Vincent and Jas. There is no school here in Pelican Town, you know.”

I really want to see the children here. I’m sure I’m not the youngest person in Stardew Valley!

“Well, you’re always welcome to the library every Wednesday! I’m sure the children will love you!” Penny laughed. “Anyway, do you happen to have any experience in teaching?” Jane shook her head in response.

I did want to establish a school for mute children after I graduate university, but my grandfather saved me from that. It’s hard to adapt in Korea when you’re disabled.

“Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that.” Penny replied when Sam and Sebastian entered the library. “Hello, Sam!” Sam chuckled and kissed her lips.

“You jealous, bro?” Sam gloated at Sebastian.

“Just… shut up.” Sebastian scoffed as he helped Jane up. “Come on, everybody’s waiting for us.” He said to Jane as he escorted her out of the Library.


Before Sebastian opened the door of Stardrop Saloon, Jane stopped him.

How are we going to explain this to everyone? She typed. Sebastian sighed in response.

“Jane, you’re going to have to cooperate with my on this one.” Sebastian spoke. Jane nodded. “I’ll say that I collapsed due to exhaustion, okay? This will be the proof.” He added, showing a dark ruddy smudge on his shirt. “It’s blood I don’t know how it happened, to be honest.” His words made Jane gasp with worry. Knowing why would that happen, she immediately started typing on her phone.

I know why this is happening. Do you smoke when I’m not around?

“Y… yeah.” Sebastian confessed.

That’s your answer. How long have you been smoking?

“Four years.” Sebastian replied with a sigh, making Jane gasp in shock.

Why do you do stuff that’s hurting your body? Don’t you care about us? Jane typed. She wanted to scream at him, but all that would come out would be inaudible noises.

“Jane…”

Don’t ever do this again! Promise me that you’ll never smoke again! Please! Jane was now sobbing. What was this feeling that she’s having right now? Promise me that you’ll give up all of your cigarettes, including that electric one!

“Jane…” Sebastian said with a crack on his voice. “I’m so sorry. Nobody cared about me smoking, not even Sam and my mom. Y… you’re the only one who cared about this.” Tears welled up on his eyes. Jane couldn’t take it anymore. She burst into tears as she crashed onto the raven-haired boy. “I’ll promise. I’ll take good care of myself and find something else to replace my smoking habit.” Jane nodded, wrapping her arms around him tightly. Her tears soaked his shirt. “Thank you for caring about me more than my family does.” She nodded again and released him when she saw Sam walking towards them.

“Uh… what the hell were you two doing?” Sam asked the two.

“Nothing. Go away.” Sebastian flipped him off before entering the Saloon.


After confronting countless people who bombarded Jane and Sebastian with questions about yesterday, they finally managed to push their way into the leisure room where Abigail waved at Jane. “Hi, Jane!” The purple-haired girl chirped, patting on the couch. The place where the farmer was about to sit had a red backpack placed. “Oh, sorry.” She apologized and moved the bad to the floor beneath her.

What’s that for? Jane asked as she sat down, removing her prosthetic leg.

“Wait, you can remove that?” Abigail asked, surprised. Jane nodded with a strange look as she placed the leg next to her. “Anyway, I have a question.” Jane was all ears. “I want to have a sleepover in your house today.” So many thought poured into Jane’s mind just by one sentence. Sebastian was with her for the entire night and today. Would having another person staying her congested cottage be acceptable? “I can help you in tomorrow’s farmworke!” Abigail added. She was now begging. How dire was she, anyway?

‘This girl is more clingy than that boy during middle school. Ugh, I don’t want to think about it.’ Jane thougth as she typed on her phone.

Fine.

“Really?! YES!” Abigail exclaimed as she hugged the farmer tightly. Jane shrugged with a grin as she received a facebook message from her brother.

“Who is it?” Abigail asked, but started to blush when she found that it was Minsoo. “No, it’s nothing.” Abigail assured when Jane gave her a confused look. She then started typing in Korean.

-Minsoo Park: Hello!

-Haneul Park: Hi!

-Minsoo Park: How’s the farm life? Is it the same as before?

-Haneul Park: It’s good!

Jane paused. Could her brother know about her incident? No. She was the only person to be in contact with him. She was safe, for now.

-Minsoo Park: I saw the video that your friend posted.

The text was enough to scare Jane. She hoped that Minsoo wouldn’t be overprotective like before.

-Minsoo Park: I knew you two would get that close!

-Haneul Park: Give me a break!

Jane gave a sigh of embarrassment. “What’s wrong?” Abigail asked. Jane shook her head. “What did you brother say?” She asked, starting at the chat room. She didn’t seem to understand all of the language that was foreign to her.

He says that he watched the video that you posted. Jane replied, making Abigail burst into laughter.

“I saw his comment! Even he knows that you have a crush on Seb!” By her words, Sebastian stopped what he was doing and glared at Abigail.

“Can you please shut up?” Sebastian asked. Sam and Abigail couldn’t help but laugh harder, making Jane and Sebastian blush. A message ring pulled Jane back to reality.

-Minsoo Park: Anyway, who the hell is Haley?

Jane paused and stared at Abigail, who was staring at the screen. “I can’t understand.” She said.

-Haneul Park: Do you mind if we chat in English?

-Minsoo Park: Why?

-Haneul Park: Friends.

A long pause followed. Jane smiled when she saw her brother’s response in English.

-Minsoo Park: Fine

Anyway, where are you?

“Let’s take a selfie!” Abigail suggested. Smiling, Jane and Abigail posed for her facial camera. After a flash, Jane sent the picture to her brother.

-Minsoo Park: This definitely isn’t your house.

-Haneul Park: It’s the saloon.

A long pause followed. “What’s taking him so long?” Abigail asked. Worried, Jane shrugged when she received a message.

-Minsoo Park: Are you kidding me?

How?!

You’re not even in Legal Age!

It says that the Legal Age in Ferngill is 19…

…And you’re 18!

How the hell did you even enter the saloon anyway?

“Aren’t you nineteen like me?” Abigail asked, after looking at the conversation. Jane shook her head and used her fingers to draw the number 18. “Really?! When’s your birthday?”

1st of Fall, 2001.

“Wow, I’m going to make you drink then, alright?” Abigail promised, but the farmer stopped her when she received more messages.

-Minsoo Park: Are you even seeing my messages?

-Haneul Park: They let a 15-year old in here, anyway.

She was referring to Maru.

-Minsoo Park: Do they let you drink?

-Haneul Park: No.

-Minsoo Park: That’s okay, then.

Anyway, who’s Haley?

Jane paused for a while. ‘Should I say the truth?’ She thought. That blonde-haired girl insulted her multiple times and even violently pushed her to the ground during the Flower Festival. She didn’t want to be a tattletale due to past experiences, but she also didn’t want to experience what she did back in Korea again. Just as she drowned herself in thought, she noticed that her phone wasn’t in her hands, but in the hands of Abigail. She was typing away frantically. Jane snatched it away hastily and saw what her friend had written.

-Haneul Park: Haley is a whore that insulted your sister like there is no tomorrow. You don’t want to know how horrible she is to all of us. She calls us names and calls Jane ‘Chopstick Leg’. Haley pushed her to the ground during the dance festival that I posted a video about.

“I did it for you!” Abigail said with pride. Jane motionlessly stared at the screen. I fact, Minsoo loved Jane so much that he would get enraged whenever somebody insults or touches her uncomfortably. He once almost dragged one of her bullies into a warehouse and tortured him when she was fifteen if she didn’t stop him.

-Minsoo Park: This isn’t my sister.

Is this one of her friends?

-Haneul Park: That was Abigail.

-Minsoo Park: That explains everything.

Mark my words, Haneul.

If that girl messes with you again, I’ll murder her family.

“Your brother’s so cool!” Abigail chirped, but stopped when she saw Jane’s frown. “I’m sorry.” Jane gave a single nod as she received another message.

-Minsoo Park: So, did and mom managed to make a gap in their work.

-Haneul Park: A break?

-Minsoo Park: Yup.

Wanna know the good news?

We’re going to spend it in your farm!

…for a whole week! I’m coming too!

The message was so dopamine-inducing that it immediately gave Jane a smile. “What did he say?” asked Abigail.

My family is coming here at Fall. My brother’s coming too! Jane typed. Both girls squealed in delight, making Sebastian and Sam, who had recently returned to the leisure room with plates of food, stare at the girls with confusion.

“I’ll never understand women.” Sebastian muttered. Jane snapped back to reality to find Abigail blushing. Why would SHE get excited for her brother’s visit? Does she have a crush on him? “Anyway, here’s your food, Jane.” The raven-haired boy said as he handed a steaming plate of food. It was a T-bone steak, medium-rare.

How did you know that this is my favorite? Jane typed, blushing.

“He touched you heart, Jane!” Sam exclaimed, placing a plate of chicken sandwich on Abigail’s lap.

“I could spit on your food.” Sebastian jokingly threatened as he pointed at a plate of spaghetti on the pool table.

“Why were you two fangirling? Was Jane showing a K-Pop music video again?” Sam asked the two girls.

“Jane’s brother’s coming over at Fall!” Abigail replied in behalf.

“Looks like we have made ourselves a new person to make fun of Seb with!” Everybody except Sebastian and Jane laughed by his words.

“Abby, why would you get excited?” Sebastian asked, trying to divert the topic. “It’s her brother and you’ve only met him through one Skype Chat!

“She’s hiding something, isn’t she?” Sam asked. Jane shrugged. She could see Abigail’s struggle to hide her blush as she took a bite out of her chicken sandwich.


Sebastian and Abigail helped Jane back to Agria Farm when it was late night. Just as the raven-haired boy was about to leave, Jane stopped him. Tomorrow’s homework is to learn the vocabulary of page 29 of the sign language book I gave you. She typed.

“What?! Didn’t you say that there’s no homework?” Sebastian whined. Jane shrugged jokingly. “You sly fox. Alright, see you tomorrow.” He grunted, waving the two girls goodbye. The first thing Abigail did when she entered the cottage was unpack her stuff and pull out her laptop. Jane knew that she was in for a game night. Smiling, the farmer limped to her Xbox and powered it on, booting Battlefield 1 up.

Wanna try? Jane asked.

“Sure!” Abigail complied as she took the controller and played. Of course, she wasn’t good at it. Her average life-span was approximately twenty-five seconds. Jane noticed that Abigail always get run over by Armored Cars or get shot by a sniper. “Ugh! I can’t do this! Jane, you try!” With a grin, Jane took the controller and did her best. As usual, Jane won the match. “You… you’re like a hand of magic, you know?” Abigail commented. Jane shrugged in reply. After some more videogame time, it was already 11 o’clock at night.

Wanna watch a movie? Jane asked.

“Ooh, are we going to watch a Korean Drama?” Abigail asked, but Jane shook her head.

It’s horror.

“Horror? I’d love to! What are we going to watch? The Conjuring? SAW?” Once again, Jane shook her head. She rummaged through her movie collection to find Train to Busan, the most popular Korean zombie horror movie.

“Train to Busan?! Wow, I’ve never watched this!”

Then sit on the bed! I’ll get the popcorn. Jane typed as she put the DVD in the TV player. For the entirety of the movie, Abigail had to hide behind the blanket of Jane’s bed while Jane showed absolutely no change in emotion. She loved horror movies so much that jumpscares and bloodshed didn’t scare her at all. There was one time where Abigail literally threw the plastic bowl across the cottage, spilling the popcorn inside due to a jumpscare. Jane ordered her to pick them up after the credits started rolling. When Jane turned the lights off for slumber, Abigail snuggled beside her.

“You Korean make the best horror movies.” Abigail whispered.

Scared? Jane typed. Abigail nodded.

“How are you not scared at all?”

Watch a lot of these and they’ll be alright. She typed as she kissed the purple-haired girl’s cheek and fell into deep slumber.

 

Chapter 16? Yup, it's out. It's been a whole week ever since I've uploaded the last chapter. I feel unease whenever I don't write, you know. (Damn, I really need to divide my time so I can learn how to use the Unity Engine...)

As soon as he closed the door of his room, Sebastian sat on his desk and opened his sign language book. It was as if a thunderstorm suddenly made its way in a clear blue sky. He turned to page 29 and started learning the vocabulary. The homework that Jane had given to him didn’t seem too difficult as there were only twenty words to memorize. After spending two hours on it, Sebastian felt that he was well prepared for tomorrow. He powered his computer on and turned on Overwatch. All he needed to do now was wait for Sam to log in. Five minutes has passed and there was still no response. The raven-haired boy unlocked his phone and called Sam. “Sam, where the hell are you? I’ve been waiting for five minutes for you!” He said once his friend received the phone.

“Hey, Seb. I’m with Penny right now.” Sam said.

“Well, what does that have to do with… oh wait.”

“Yeah, she called me into her trailer. So, I’m here while Penny was talking to me about… personal issues.”

“Yeah, personal stuff. Yeah.” Sebastian said, trying to make a sexual joke.

“Seb, this isn’t a joke! You know what’s with her!” Sam replied with an annoyed tone. That’s strange. He isn’t a type of guy who would be annoyed.

“Sorry. So… I guess no Overwatch today?”

“Yup, sorry. Goodnight.”

“’Night.” Sebastian sighed after ending the call. He turned off Overwatch. He wouldn’t have if Abigail was with Jane. He would have played a few rounds with her and… Sebastian paused his thought train. Currently, Jane has been using her phone to communicate with the townspeople except Harvey, Penny and the Wizard. Every time the farmer would have a conversation with him, Jane would end up with throbbing fingers when they part ways. Sebastian knew that should this continue and his sign language not improve, Jane would end up with carpel tunnels. ‘No, that’s not going to happen.’ He thought. All of this sparked determination to learn sign language. For some reason, he was more than ready to sacrifice his sleep time to attempt talking to Jane by using only sign language. He opened his sign language book, turned on Google Chrome and searched multiple dictionaries for him to use.


BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

“One hour of sleep…” Sebastian grunted as he begrudgingly rose from his bed. As he had said, he had fallen asleep at five in the morning. The alarm rang at six. ‘How am I going to stay awake today… Jesus, I have jamming sessions today with Sam.’ He thought as he crawled to his bathroom to get washed up. After changing to one of his dark shirts, Sebastian made his way out of the Carpenter’s shop while not bothering about eating breakfast. While he walked down the mountain through the road to Agria Farm, Sebastian wondered if all the hours he had spent to learn sign language was worth it. It was as if he was about to take school examinations just like he did three years ago. However, those days are now past. Sebastian reminded himself that he was doing this for his friend. He decided to practice what he had learned last night. As he approached the entrance of the farm, Sebastian noticed that someone was working in the farm. He knew that it was Jane, but she was being helped by someone. ‘Who is it?’ Sebastian thought as he walked through the gate.

“Hey! Jane! Your crush is here!” The second figure shouted. Sebastian scoffed when he found that it was Abigail.

“Shut up!” Sebastian shouted as Jane stopped what she was doing and happily waved at him. “Hey, Jane. I guess I’m not needed anymore?” He asked his farmer friend.

She’s only here for today. I’ll always want your help. Jane typed on her phone, blushing.

“Yeah? Well, looks like I’m not useless after all.” Sebastian replied with rosy cheeks.

“Aww, you two are destined to be together!” Abigail cooed, walking towards the two. Sebastian grunted as he flipped her off. As he stared at Jane motionlessly, Sebastian reminded himself of what he wanted to do since last night. Yes. He took a deep breath, held his hands up and started moving them around in motions that were familiar to Jane.

Hello. How. Are. You.

With every word that Sebastian pulled off, Sebastian could see a smile on Jane grow bigger and bigger. When he managed to pull out a sentence, Jane started to hop around gleefully while squealing like a child. “Whoa, settle down!” Sebastian said. When Jane did as he said, she prepared her hands for communication.

I’m fine! Okay. He understood that. Did you eat ?????????

‘Uh-oh. What does that last word mean?’ He thought. Sebastian thought for a while. She did mention the word ‘eat’. Could the word he was looking for be ‘breakfast’? ‘Maybe. It could be.’ Sebastian thought as he shook his head. He really wished he had a jug of espresso right now.

We’re about to go eat breakfast now! Jane signaled. We’re going to eat breakfast! She typed and showed her phone to Abigail.

“Yeah!” The purple-haired girl chirped as she ran to the cottage.

“She’s kind of a bit hyper about this, don’t you think?” Sebastian asked Jane when he saw the purple-haired girl close the door behind her. “Not to mention going inside the house without your permission.” Jane nodded in reply as the raven-haired boy escorted her into her cottage.


After a quick breakfast of milk and cereal, Sebastian and Jane observed as Abigail started packing her backpack. Once the purple-haired girl left the cottage, the two will start their sign language lesson. In his mind, Sebastian filled his thoughts with sign language. “Okay, you two! Have a nice date!” Abigail said as she waved the two goodbye, making Sebastian grunt with frustration.

“Jesus Christ, Abby.” He grunted as Abigail opened the door, only to stop.

“What’s this?” Abigail asked herself as she looked down on her left side. “Jane, you have a parcel!” She said. Curious, Jane limped outside to check on what she was talking about. Sebastian followed to find a relatively large box approximately the size of a CRT TV.

“What do you think this is?” Sebastian asked with Jane shrugging in response. “I think we should see what’s inside.” He suggested.

“Yeah, I think we should.” Abigail agreed, going back inside.

“Why would you be part of this?”

“Why? Can’t I do something with a friend?”

“What if it’s personal stuff? What if…” Jane stopped Sebastian there.

I don’t mind. She typed on her phone.

“Very well, then.” The raven-haired boy concluded as he hoisted the box with his arms and followed Jane inside. When the farmer closed the door behind her, Sebastian placed the box on the table and sat on a chair along with the two girls. Jane limped to her computer desk and pulled out her army knife and proceeded to cut the tape that sealed the box. When she opened the cardboard, she saw a piece of paper that looked like a letter. Sebastian waited patiently as the farmer read it. As she read it, however, tears rolled from her eyes. ‘Maybe it’s from her family. Gosh, I miss my dad.’ He thought.

“What did it say?” Abigail asked Jane.

It’s a present from mom. She said that my family and my friends love me and misses me. Jane replied, wiping her tears.

“Aww, that’s so sweet.”

“Maybe.” Sebastian added.

“That’s a strange way to continue the conversation.” Abigail said.

“Whatever. What’s inside the box?” Sebastian asked Jane. The farmer simply held her palm to signal him to wait as she pulled out a smaller box with a drawing of what looked like some sort of golden fruit drawn on it. After placing it on the table, she pulled out a relatively big paper bag. After seeing what’s inside, Jane happily typed on her phone.

It’s Asian pear!

“Asian pear? Sounds interesting.” Sebastian replied, touching the box. Jane opened it and pulled a pear out. It looked like a wide apple with a skin that made the fruit look like a golden apple from Minecraft.

“Wow, will that fruit give me two more hearts and fire resistance?” Abigail jokingly asked. Jane happily shrugged as she cut the fruit into six equal slices. She took a bit out of one and gave a squeal of joy.

‘She must have missed this fruit.’ Sebastian thought. Jane then handed one to her two friends. Abigail immediately popped it into her mouth. Seeing this, Sebastian gave a nod and took a bite out of the fruit. As soon as the slice made contact with his tongue, its sweet and sour juices coated his mouth. Whenever his teeth crushed the flesh of the fruit, it gave him a sensation of tiny beads rolling around his mouth, slightly tickling his tongue. Sebastian had never tasted something like this before. Unlike the pears that could be bought in the General Store, this was far more better. “Wow, this is… really tasty!” Sebastian complimented after swallowing the flesh. He immediately grabbed another and devoured it quickly. Jane blushed as she smiled at him.

“Aww, Seb!” Abigail cooed.

“I didn’t say that to YOU!” Sebastian flipped her off. “Anyway, what’s in that paper bag?” He asked. Jane grinned as she flipped the bag upside down, spilling its contents on the table. They were five containers of tree saplings!

“Oh, my, god! Jane, are those the pear trees?!” Abigail exclaimed as she held a container. Jane nodded in reply, but gave a sigh of worry. “What’s wrong?”

I don’t know how to plant these. Jane typed.

“I’ll ask my dad for help! Come with me after your date lesson with Seb!” Abigail chirped.

“Seriously, Abigail?” Sebastian scoffed.


With Abigail finally gone from Agria Farm, Jane could finally be ready for today’s lecture. Sebastian noticed that she was acting a little bit faster than usual, but why? Could it because of his actions earlier? ‘Okay, Seb. Remember what you’ve practiced.’ He reminded himself as Jane pulled a chair and sat down, placing her books on the table. Sebastian sat on his chair and took a deep breath. I. Have. Practiced. Last. Night. Sebastian said through sign language, making Jane smile so wide that her white teeth shined by the sunlight.

I’m happy that you did! Jane replied with sign language. Sebastian sighed in relief. At least he understood what that meant. Did you do your ????????

“Uh… I’m sorry, what does that mean?” Sebastian involuntarily asked. Pouting, Jane opened her friend’s notebook and wrote ‘homework’ on one of the pages. ‘So that’s what it meant.’ He thought as he made a mental note. He was glad that he was improving, but he was worried about the drowsiness that was consuming him bit by bit. Let. Us. Start. He signaled as he opened his sign language book. Firstly, he recited his homework of his weekly vocabulary. As he practiced it for hours last night, it was extremely easy for Sebastian, although he made a few mistakes in the words ‘routine’ and ‘engage’. When he finished, Jane gave a squeal of delight as she lunged forward to embrace the raven-haried boy. Both of them had rosy cheeks as she released each other.

Let’s start today’s lesson. Jane wrote on his notebook as she opened her sign language book. Just as she pointed at a word in the book, Sebastian stopped her.

“Hey, uh… is it okay if we do it in my room?” He asked.

Why?

“I mean… I’m not saying that I’m uncomfortable in here, but I think my room is a good place for a lesson. You know, I have coffee table…” He paused when he saw Jane give him a confused look. “…You know what? I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have suggested that. I…” Jane stopped him. She gave a nod of approval as as she closed her books and stood up. ‘I hope she doesn’t know that I’m sleepy as hell.’ Sebastian thought as he escorted her out of Agria Farm and to the Carpenter’s Shop.

 

HO HO HO! MERRY CHRISTMAS! HAPPY FEAST OF THE WINTER STAR! (It's December 25th, 3:13AM here)

 

Chapter 17! Sorry for the late posting! I have been having some family issues and I need to study for something massive. Anyway, Happy New Year!

Just as Sebastian was about to walk down the porch, Jane slapped his shoulder gently as to tell Sebastian something. “Huh? What’s wrong?” He asked.

I’m tired. Jane typed.

“Tired, you say? Does that mean no class today?” He beamed with hope. Jane couldn’t help but to giggle about how she gave her friend false hope as she shook her head in denial. “Oh, what?!”

Go get your motorcycle. It’s going to rain all day.

“Alright, fine. Wait here. Don’t think about giving me more work while I’m gone!” Jane gave a shrug as she saw Sebastian walk out north up the mountain.

‘That’ll give me time to rest.’ Jane thought as she collapsed on her bed. It was such a painful task to teach Abigail how to use farm tools and pull out crops. It would have unloaded the farmer’s burden if she at least knew the basics. Without Abigail knowing anything about farming, the trouble Jane had to face was equivalent to building a three meter snowman in the Sahara Desert while performing a somersault. She remembered how Abigail accidentally trampled on five strawberry plants, crushing the fruits on the soil. In the end, the purple-haired girl had caused 600 Galleons worth of damage, but Jane simply nodded it off despite her friend’s clingly apology. ‘I’m not letting her help next time.’ She thought when their work was done.

Jane knew that it would take about fifteen minutes for Sebastian to return with his vehicle, so she powered her Xbox on and played a few rounds of Battlefield 1. Since the map of the quick match was Sinai Desert, she decided to go for scout. She spawned in Objective C with the Lever-Action Russian 1897 sniper rifle on hand. Although she normally uses the Martini-Henry, she didn’t mind using this rifle. In fact, she missed using scopes. She hitched a ride from her squad mate riding a motorcycle as it dashed to the northern cliffs. This was the perfect spot for snipers. The entire map was visible from here, letting Jane see her enemies pinpointed by her squad mates. She lied on the ground, aimed her rifle and picked on the vulnerable enemies one by one. When she expended almost all of her ammunition, Jane relocated herself to the nearest ammunition pouch and took position right beside it as it gave her ammunition needed for her kills. She continued to snipe on this position until she heard machine-gun fire louder than the muffled gunshots from afar. Immediately, she knew that an enemy was approaching. Retracting her Russian 1897, Jane readied her sidearm, which was the… Kolibri?! Jane was shocked. She was wielding the smallest and weakest gun in the game! She grunted in frustration as the enemy player gunned her character down. She normally used the standard 1911 pistol, but having the Kolibri was ridiculous. Half of her mind blamed Abigail while the other half blamed herself for not checking her loadout before deployment.

Time seemed to fly for Jane when she heard hummings of a engine followed by three knocks on the door. Knowing that it was Sebastian, she turned all electronic devices off, packed her books and pencils then greeted the raven-haried boy with a smile. “You ready to go?” Jane nodded in response to Sebastian’s question. With a positive reply, Sebastian escorted her to the bike, strapped her aboard and set off up the mountain. Rain was slowly starting to trickle down from the sky.


The two stopped at their destination as the rain was becoming heavier. As usual, Robin immediately greeted Jane with a tight hug when the two teenagers entered the Carpenter’s Shop. “Are you here for Sebby’s teaching?” Robin asked with a widest smile Jane had ever seen. The farmer nodded in response, making the carpenter chuckle. “Alright, then! You two have fun while I fix some lunch for you two! And Sebby, I never expected for you to learn sign language in our house!” She said to Sebastian.

“Whatever, mom. Come on, Jane. Mom’s going to explode into confetti if we do it in the kitchen.” Sebastian replied, escorting Jane to the basement.

“I’ll call you two when lunch is ready!” Robin called from the kitchen.

Won’t your room drip? Jane asked.

“Nah, don’t worry. Mom at least cares about me unlike Demetrius.” Sebastian replied with a sigh. “Why the hell would that guy hate me, anyway?” He muttered to himself as he opened his room door. Jane was greeted by the basement’s usual dark environment. It seemed even darker since it was raining heavily outside. Unlike the last time she was here, the room was surprisingly organized. The bed was made, desk and coffee table was void of mugs, board games and books. The only downside to this room was how dusty it was. The difference between the air in here and the rest of the house was extremely obvious as Jane had small problem breathing. It was usual, though. “Right. Let’s sit down.” Sebastian said with a big yawn as he sat Jane down on the coffee table. Jane immediately unpacked her backpack and opened her sign language book and notebook. She then unzipped her pencil case and took out her favorite mechanical pencil.

Where were we? Jane wrote.

“We were at… wait, we didn’t start today.”

Turn to page 47.

Sebastian obeyed. He turned to the said page where the last images of sign language vocabulary was posted. “Hey, we’re at the last page!” Surprised, Jane flipped to the next page. It was the next chapter: Basic Grammar. This gave Jane an idea.

Can you try making ten sentences with sign language? Jane scribbled.

“Hmm? Oh yeah, sure.” Sebastian replied as he cleared his throat. “Wait, that was stupid.” He grumbled, stimulating Jane’s laugh. “Okay. Here goes sentence one…” Jane had her eyes peeled.

My. Life. Is. Boring. Jane gave a nod of approval.

I ordered. A. hamburger. Yesterday. Night. Another nod.

Can. I kiss. You?

‘What, what?!’ Jane shouted in her mind as she flustered. She didn’t expect him to say that. ‘Friends. Friends. Friends.’ She reminded herself.

“What did I just say?” Sebastian asked himself, peeking at his book. “Oh damn. Looks like I’ve used the wrong word.”

It’s okay. Jane wrote.

“Alright then.” He returned to his hands.

Do. You. Want. To. Go. To. The… Sebastian paused. Jane gave him a funny look as he looked like he was hesitating.

“Mines… Mines… I remember looking this up!”

That’s not part of the vocabulary. Jane wrote.

“I know. But still, I really want to make my own sentences! I’ve learned to do this in Greek and Spanish classes back at high school!” Sebastian replied. Jane was surprised. She had never expected this boy to be so determined to learn something. During the first days of his learning, he seemed to begrudgingly learn sign language from her because of her loss of temper after the fight between Robin and Sebastian. However, ever since the Flower Festival, he seemed to be slowly changing. Jane didn’t want to complain about it. In fact, she was happy that somebody was willing to learn what she knew, but all of this confused her in some way. It was just one dance. Why would he change so much? However, Jane knew that this was all questions not worth looking for answers. She gestured Sebastian to continue. “O… okay.” He said.

In the end, he managed to successfully finish his assignment with a very deep yawn. As he closed his mouth, Jane noticed very dark bags below his eyes.

Didn’t you sleep? Jane asked.

“I did.” He said. She knew that he was lying. If the things that she had learned from Korean romance dramas were right, giving a cute whine and maybe burying her face on a boy’s shoulder would make him do anything. Although it may embarrass her, it was worth trying. She hasn’t done this in ten years, anyway. Clearing her throat, she gave her best pouting face and threw her head to Sebastian’s shoulder. She whined with a high pitch as she rubbed her forehead on his shirt in plea.

‘I need to remember to not do this ever again.’ She thought as she pulled away from the act with a burning face. She found that Sebastian had rosy cheeks too.

“I… yeah. I only slept for one hour trying to learn all of this.” The raven-haired boy spat out the truth, pointing at his books. Jane gasped in disbelief. He sacrificed so much just for her? Wow. She once again threw herself to Sebastian while dropping tiny traces of tears. Oh, how much she wanted to say thank you if she weren’t mute. Just before she released him, Robin entered the room, giving all three people a chance to gasp.

“Oh, you two! I knew you guys would be so close!” Robin teased.

“Friends! We’re friends!” Sebastian yelled in embarrassment. Jane scooted away from him with regret swallowing her whole. She was even more embarrassed than him and everybody could tell.


“What was that all about?” Sebastian asked Jane after lunch. They walked down and sat on the coffee table so that Jane could write her response.

I’m so happy that you invested so much for me. Jane wrote.

“Well, I didn’t want you to get carpel tunnels.” Sebastian replied just as Robin entered the room with a tray of two glasses of orange juice.

“You two are way too adorable! I think you two should da…”

“MOM!” Sebastian have a shout with rosy cheeks, cutting Robin off.

“Alright, then! Have fun, you two!” The carpenter said as she walked out of the room. The two teenagers diverted their attention back to the studies as Jane taught Sebastian more things in sign language. This time, it was more difficult with more complicated vocabulary. As the raven-haired boy made many mistakes, he acted like he committed a great sin. However, once he finally managed to pull off the thing correctly, Jane had to contain the large smile that she was forced to make.

I need to go to the toilet. Jane suddenly wrote.

“Wh-what? Sure. Take your time.” Sebastian replied as he helped Jane up back to her feet. Jane then limped her way alone into the restroom and locked the door behind her. After taking her bathroom break, she washed her hands and limped out of the toilet to find… Sebastian sleeping on the coffee table. Sighing, Jane sat down beside him and shook him in attempt to wake him up but with no success. He was fast asleep. Staying silent, Jane listened to the rain pour down on the ground above her. The sound mesmerized her until she daydreamed of the rainy kiss scenes from soap operas. She snapped back to reality when Robin entered the room with some news.

“Jane, you’re going to have to stay here for the night. The rain is too heavy for you and Sebby to go outside. Yoba, I hope it won’t flood down there.” Jane nodded in response. “Say, is Sebby sleeping?” Another nod. “Oh, dear. I knew that his work will take the toll.” Jane shrugged by Robin’s words, but deep inside her, the mischievous side of her snapped. She gestured the carpenter to come to her and quickly scribbled on her own notebook. “What is it, sweetie?” Robin asked as she bent over to see what the farmer had written.

Do you have a marker?

“Why, there’s plenty of them on Sebby’s desk. Why?”

Let’s draw stuff on his face!

“Oh, Jane! Just like that night in the Saloon? Of course! Let me get us both one…” Robin giggles as she grabbed two black markers. She handed one to Jane. “Oh, my artistic side is tingling!” The carpenter chuckled as Jane positioned the sleeping boy’s face to the sky and slowly and carefully started to draw on his face. Just as she finished drawing, Robin snapped her fingers. “Jane, wait here. I’ll go grab my makeup set!” She said. Jane couldn’t control her giggle as Robin bolted out of the room and quickly came back with a small leather pouch. She handed Jane a lipstick while she proceeded to apply mascara on Sebastian’s eyelids. After Jane had the fun coloring the raven-haired boy’s lips, she received permission to use Robin’s skin taint and proceeded to lightly tap the powder on his cheeks.

The final product was a complete masterpiece. Sebastian’s sleeping face was covered in makeup with cat whiskers and cute faces sticking their tongues out drawn. Jane gave Robin a high-five while trying their best to not wake Sebastian up. “That was fun! Thanks for the idea, Jane!” Robin whispered as she walked out of the room.


Jane found Sebastian sleeping even after six hours plus dinner. She was now in Maru’s pajamas and was holding mattresses for her to sleep on. Robin and Demetrius came in the room to hoist the sleeping boy onto his bed. Jane still couldn’t help but to giggle at his face. It was too funny and …too adorable. Realizing that she was very tired and the clock struck eleven, Jane laid her mattress right beside Sebastian’s bed and sat on it with her chin resting on the bed as she observed Sebastian silently sleeping. She wondered why would she feel something strange whenever she was with him. Could it be what she thought it would be…? No. He’s just a friend to her. Just as she gave a sigh, she heard a chirp. This wasn’t from a bird. It was… Iseul?

‘Iseul! What are you doing here?’ Jane asked with her mind.

“I was lonely!” Iseul replied silently.

‘What if they see you?’

“You two are one with the forest! Others except the wizard can’t.” Jane gave a sigh of relief.

‘How did you get here, anyway?’

“I teleported here! You know us.”

‘Right. Look, Iseul. I need to go to sleep. I’m sorry if I can’t talk with you right now. I have so many questions I want to ask you, but not now.’

“It’s okay, Jane. I know that you’re feeling something about Sebastian.”

‘What? No! I…I mean, maybe. I’ll ask you tomorrow.’ Jane confesses as she kissed the Junimo on the forehead and laid on her mattress. She fell into slumber as she was chatting with her Korean friends.

 

Chapter 18! Beach playing scenes are haaaaaaaaaaaaaaard. Crush scenes are haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaard

With a grunt, Sebastian slowly opened his eyes to find himself surrounded by pitch black. The song of the rain whispered to his ears from the ceiling and walls, signaling him that it was still raining. Sighing, Sebastian snuggled deeper onto his bedsheets.

Wait… BEDSHEETS?

Sebastian immediately scoured through his memories to remember what happened. Upon gathering what was in his mind, he found out that he had fallen asleep on the coffee table when Jane left for a bathroom break. The lack of sleep yesterday had taken its toll.

‘Not again…’ Sebastian thought. Jane might have left before supper, disappointed of him. Sebastian started to feel regret crawling on his skin, which made his heart race. He gave a sigh as he closed his eyes and let the sound of the heavy rain outside pull him back to slumber, but as he almost drifted into deep sleep, something made him sit straight up as if somebody shocked him with a taser. If Jane left in this weather, the suffering that she may have endured during her way down would be unthinkable. All of this made Sebastian feel self-hatred for being so irresponsible. Other than that, his drowsiness was nowhere to be found. He set foot on the ground expecting it to hit the wooden floor. Instead, it felt cloth.

“Hm?” Sebastian hummed as he shuffled his foot around. He didn’t remember having any sort of garment laying around, especially when Jane was here. He stretched his legs to feel something else. This time, it was soft and solid. That’s strange. He decided to go turn on the lights. He touched his way to the light switch and turned it on, not knowing what waited behind him. He turned around to find…

“Jane?!” He gasped. Indeed, the mute farmer was sleeping undisturbed on a mattress beside Sebastian’s bed with her phone in hand. Sleeping right next to her was Iseul, the junimo. Iseul woke up and faced Sebastian.

“What’s wrong?” It asked.

“What are you two doing here?” Sebastian hissed.

“I’m here to keep Haneul safe!”

“Who the hell is Haneul?” Iseul stared at Jane, who was whispering inaudible noises.

“…Jane?”

“You didn’t know until now?”

“None of us knows! She never told us her Korean name.” Sebastian admitted, sitting back down on the bed groggily.

“I don’t know why she wouldn’t, but that doesn’t matter. She seemed to accept both names from her parents from a machine you humans call ‘computer’.” Sebastian could only nod at the junimo.

“Do you know why she’s sleeping here?” Sebastian asked.

“I don’t know that. What matters is that she’s here and I feel like I have to be next to her. We both feel safe together.”

“I get it. I’ll ask mom during breakfast. Say, what do you guys eat?”

“Haneul feeds me with fruit. The golden fruit that she gave me was delicious!” It was talking about the Asian Pear. Scratching his head, Sebastian took a glance at Jane. As he stared at her undisturbed face, he couldn’t help but think about how adorable she was. Despite continuously reminding himself that she was just a friend, every time she smiled at him or squealed whenever he did something correctly during her lectures, his heart would skip a beat. She looked so pure. She looked like an angel. She…

He pushed the thoughts away. He turned his head to his computer. ‘Did I have any work left behind…?’ he thought as he tiptoed his way to it and powered it on. There were none, fortunately. His last client had been satisfied two days ago. He checked the clock to find that it was 3 AM.

“You should sleep.” Iseul suggested.

“Right. Thanks, Iseul.” Sebastian replied as he turned the computer back off. He turned off the lights and walked back to his bed with the aid of his phone flashlight. He stopped when he saw Jane’s face once again. He couldn’t help it. He wanted to touch her cheeks, just to see how it felt like. He would be slapped should she wake up. Making his decision, he slowly leaned and gently stroke Jane’s cheek with his index finger. It was so smooth. Closing his eyes, tight, he kissed her cheek before quickly bolting to his bed while his face turned into a tomato.


Sebastian woke up by familiar laughter from two people. He grunted as he slowly opened his eyes to find two girls. He could easily find out that the first one was Jane. It took him time, but he finally realized that the second was Maru.

“Breakfast is ready, couch potato!” Maru chirped.

“Maru?! What the hell are you doing in my room?!” Sebastian bolted up. Jane typed something on her phone and showed it to him. He rubbed his eyes to see what was written.

You look pretty!

“Pretty?” Sebastian asked with confusion. He was so embarrassed. Two girls observing him sleep? Unthinkable. Jane and Maru couldn’t help but giggle harder to the point where Sebastian’s half-sister clenched her belly and rolled around the mattress that Jane slept on. “You two, get out. I’m going to change.” He said, shooing the girls from his room. He walked into his bathroom to wash up. As he faced the mirror, horror awaited him and gave him a mental shock that full woke him up. His face was covered in makeup and faces drawn! There were also some Korean written, such as ‘ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ’ ‘세비오빠바보~’. He gave a groan of defeat as he collapsed on the sink. He washed his face with soap before brushing his teeth until his face was squeaky clean. He dried up, removed his sweat-drenched hoodie and wore a white T-shirt. It was the first day of Summer and the weather was already scorching hot. He sometimes didn’t understand the sudden spike of temperature whenever the season changed.

Robin, Maru and Jane greeted Sebastian to the dining table with smiles and giggles. Demetrius didn’t even glance at him as he was concentrating on the newspaper flapping around by the wind the fan generated. “Hello, pretty boy!” Robin cheekily said.

“Not you, mom…” Sebastian grunted as he took a seat next to Jane. Robin filled his plate with some bacon and eggs. “Hi, Jane.” Jane gave a smile in response.

“I told you that you shouldn’t push yourself so hard.” Robin said, cutting a piece of bacon.

“Huh?”

“I mean, look Sebby. I understand that you’re working hard, but think about your health! Other than that, you’ll face unforeseen consequences like what happened yesterday!” Robin replied with a grin. Sebastian gave a funny look as he took a bite of an egg. He looked at Jane to find her giggling out of control. Suddenly, it hit him.

“You were behind this, weren’t you?!” Sebastian glared at the farmer. Jane couldn’t help but nod heavily and burst into laughter. Robin couldn’t help but laugh along. “You too, mom?!”

“She suggested me! I just helped on the makeup!”

“THAT’S WORSE!!” The raven-haired boy practically yelled, but calmed down when he saw Demetrius’s glare. Sighing, he continued with his food. Once he and Jane emptied their plates, he helped her up as she placed her plate in the sink.

“Jane, I forgot to mention that your Spring crops may have died. You know that, right?” Robin asked. Jane nodded.

Mrs. Mullner told me. Jane typed. She was talking about Evelyn, Alex’s grandmother. I’ll go buy new crops.

“Sure, Jane! Sebby, you’ve heard her!” Robin said to her son.

“Okay, mom. Come on, Jane. Let’s go.” Sebastian said, taking Jane outside to his motorcycle.


The two teenagers stopped by the General Store to purchase new seeds. Jane selected a dozen tomato seed packets, melon seeds and a box full of wheat seeds. Just as she went to purchase, Pierre suggested her to try some blueberries. She accepted, which Sebastian bought a box of it. He paid for the blueberries. He then drove Jane back to Agria farm where they started their work. The farm was now practically filled with husks of plants that Jane used to grow. She took a scythe and tried to cut out the husks, but tripped on the ground after a few swipes.

“Here, let me help.” Sebastian said, taking the tool from the girl’s hand. He swished and slashed his way around the farmland, making sure that no trace of dead plant remained. When the farmland was clear, Jane picked up the seed packets while Sebastian grabbed the hoe and began official work. Jane sowed the seeds on the patches of already-tilled soil while Sebastian helped expand the soil if she ran out of space. The raven-haired boy asked her where she would like to sow the individual seeds and she would point at the spot she thought would fit the best. With the last wheat seed sowed, Sebastian and Jane took turns watering the seeds. When they were done, Sebastian received a phone call from Sam.

“What?” Sebastian asked.

“Yo, bro! Abby and Penny told us to be in the beach!” Sam said through the speaker.

“Beach? What for?”

“No clue, bro! Maybe they want us to be in swimming trunks?”

“Tell them to go to hell!” Sebastian grunted. Although it was hotter than a pizza oven right now, he dared not show his bare skin to his friends. Just as he was about to end the call, Jane tapped him in the shoulder and showed her phone. Facebook was on and she was chatting with Abigail.

Abigail Berneau: Hey Jane!

Haneul Park: Hi, Abby!

Abigail Berneau: Wanna come play in the beach?

Sebastian moved his eyes back to Jane. He could see that she was pleading him to go. “Bro? Are you there?” Sam asked. Sighing, he rolled his eyes as he focused back on his phone.

“…Fine. ONLY because Jane wants to!” Sebastian said.

“Alright, bro! Can’t wait for you to man up and confess to Jane!”

“SAM!” Sebastian yelled, but the blonde-hair ended the call laughing. “Jane, do you have some sort of swimsuit?” Jane nodded. “Okay. I’ll come back with my own and we’ll go there, okay?” Jane happily nodded as she limped her way back into the cottage.

‘What is happening…’ He thought as he mounted his motorcycle and sped back up the mountain.


Sebastian returned to Agria Farm wearing his usual white T-Shirt and a pair of green swimming trunks. He was wearing a black backpack with a towel and a extra pair of clothes inside. He knocked on the cottage door. The door opened slowly, revealing Jane’s face peeking from inside. “Uh… are you okay?” Sebastian asked. Jane nodded, but when he tried to come inside, she prevented him. She was embarrassed. “Do you have anything to… uh… cover yourself up? I’ll wait here.” Jane shook her head. Suddenly, something snapped in his mind. “Hey, I forgot to return this to you.” He said, opening his bag and pulled out her brother’s military uniform. Jane gasped and smiled at him with gratitude. She closed the door, making Sebastian wait. He gazed at the sunlight-drenched farmland when the door opened again. Jane came out wearing the oversized uniform that covered almost all of her body, including her knees. She was wearing sunglasses, straw hat and was holding a cylindrical Pokémon handbag on her left shoulder.

‘Jesus, her brother must be TALL!’ Sebastian thought. “Alright, let’s go.” He said as he escorted Jane to the eastern exit by foot. The trip to the beach lasted thirteen minutes, but when the two got there, they were greeted by Abigail, Sam and Penny on their swimsuits. Other than the people, the crashing waves and the squeaking of seagulls welcomed them, too. Abigail was on her black sports bikini, Sam was on blue swimming trunks while Penny was wearing a frilly sky-blue swimming dress.

“Hey guys! It’s the dream couple!” Sam shouted when he saw Sebastian with Jane. Sebastian flipped him off as he helped Jane waddle through the hot sand. The two girls stood up from their towels and greeted the two. Abigail gave Sebastian a cheeky grin.

“I saw the picture!” Abigail remarked.

“Wait, PICTURE?!” Sebastian asked, looking at Jane. Once again, Jane burst into laughter as she fell on the soft sand. She immediately crawled to the nearest towel with the help of Abigail, still laughing. Once done, the purple-haired girl showed a picture of his sleeping his face with makeup drawn on it. Worst of all, it was on Facebook. The picture that Jane posted had already received fifteen likes and twelve comments, which most were in Korean. “Really, Jane?!” He glared at the farmer. Jane nodded while still trying her best to contain her laughter without success. Grunting, Sebastian collapsed under a parasol.

“Jane, what are you wearing?” Penny asked, pointing at Jane’s uniform. “Is that a military uniform?” Jane nodded.

“Who’s is it?” Abigail asked, taking a look at the name tag. 박민수 it read. Before Jane could reach for her phone, Abigail stopped her. “Wait, wait! I can read this! Park… M-Min… Seo? No, that’s not right. Soo… Park Minsoo… Is this your brother’s uniform?!” Jane nodded, making Abigail blush.

‘What’s with her and Jane’s brother?’ Sebastian thought, staring at the commotion.

“You should take that off!” Sam said, adjusting his sunglasses. Penny glared at him, making him look away in fear. “Sorry, Pen.” He apologized. Sebastian saw Jane’s embarrassed face as she nearly crouched into a ball.

“Come on, Jane! Turn Seb on! You can do it, girl!” Abigail said.

“Hey!” Sebastian shouted, but Abigail laughed it off. Slowly, she pulled her uniform over her head to reveal what she had. She was wearing a see-through T-shirt with a striped Blue-white-orange bikini. Her prosthetic leg was covered with a waterproof casing. Everybody’s focus was on her form, but Sebastian stared at her with a slightly opened jaw. Not only she was adorable, she was… sexy?

“Wow, you’re sexy, girl!” Abigail giggled. Jane couldn’t help but blush even heavier. Despite the compliments, Sebastian saw that she was still very embarrassed.

“Well, take her to the water and she’ll be fine… I guess.” The raven-haired boy suggested, and Penny and Abigail immediately tugged the farmer to the water. Soon enough, Jane was splashing water against her friends while giggling. Her prosthetic arm seemed to give her a disadvantage as it had a slow reaction time, however.

“So, what do you think about Jane, huh?” Sam sat next to him.

“Huh? She’s just a friend. If she’s happy, I’m fine with it.” Sebastian replied.

“Aw, Seb. You really shouldn’t put her into the friendzone.”

“Go to hell.”

“Hey, wanna go in the water?”

“How about no?” Despite Sebastian’s refusal, Sam turned to the girls and yelled.

“Hey guys! Let’s give Seb a little motivation, should we?” Immediately, Abigail came out of the water and ran to the raven-haired boy. With Sam, she grabbed Sebastian’s arm and pulled him near the water. Sebastian struggled, but Sam’s strength was nearly double of his as he and Abigail threw him into the chilly water of the beach with a splash. When he stood up, he found Jane pointing at him and laughing. Her shirt was soaked and was sticking to her skin. Sebastian blushed as Jane saw his skinny but surprisingly fit and packed body, making her blush as well. Abigail and Penny cooed at their reaction.

“You know what? This is a declaration of WAR!” Sebastian shouted as he splashed water at everybody. Bad idea. Everybody ganged up on him and the salty seawater attacked him from all directions. As he futilely fought back, Jane suddenly approached him and turned her attacks at the others! Now it was 2 against 3, but Jane and Sebastian was still outnumbered. They kept splashing and splashing until Sam knocked Sebastian onto the water. Jane tripped on the sand and fell in, too. Sebastian quickly got up and helped Jane back to her feet. When their eyes met, hey burst into laughter by how stupid they looked. They continued fighting when Penny splashed more water on the two.


The gang packed up and went back to their homes when the sun was setting. Jane had taken a lot of pictures of their adventure on her phone. When Sebastian dropped her off on Agria Farm with soaking wet hair and clothes, Jane swiped through her photo gallery and giggled at some pictures.

“May I see them?” Sebastian asked. Jane nodded with a smile as she showed her some pictures. There was one where Sebastian was pushed by Sam and was floating on the air right above the seawater. Another was Jane taking a selfie with Sebastian. The two other photos were similar, but the gap between the two was closing in. Also, Sebastian noticed that his smile was getting bigger by each following shot. “What do you think about today?” He asked.

It was so fun! Jane signaled with her hands, hopping around. At least they were words that he could understand.

“Well, to be honest, it was fun for me, too. Thanks for pulling me in.” Suddenly, Jane approached him with a dangerous distance. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her face on his chest. He could feel her heart race and Jane could probably hear his beat even faster. She rubbed her face on his soaking shirt and…

…she kissed his cheek, once again.

Jane released him slowly with the two faces red as a tomato. “Well, see you tomorrow.” Sebastian said as he mounted his motorcycle and sped for the mountains. As he showered in his room, he thought. Does she have a crush on him? Most curious of all, does he?

 

Have some Chapter 19 with a slice of Jane's past!

Upon closing the cottage door, Jane gave a heavy but relieved sigh. The kiss that she gave on Sebastian’s cheek will last for some time in her heart. Her mind was split into two sides, where one side regretted that she made too much contact with Sebastian while the other side told her to enjoy it. In fact, something about him was growing inside of her. When she returned to reality, Jane remembered that she was soaked with saltwater and looked like a burrito with a towel as the tortilla. She needed to take a warm shower, so she limped towards her bathroom, stripped off her swimsuit and hopped into the welcoming hot water.

Upon coming out from the shower, she checked her Facebook to see what was happening to her friends and her liked pages. She noticed that she had received quite a number of likes and comments on Sebastian’s makeup photo. Giggling, Jane decided to check it out.

Jiwoo Bae: ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ So cute!

Hyunsoo Kim: You should have been a makeup PD in KBS! ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

=Jiwoo Bae’s reply: Totally Agree! ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

Sam Arvidel: This is perfect

Abigail Berneau: Amazing! 10/10

Minsoo Park: That’s my Haneul! ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

=Abigail Berneau’s reply: Hi!

=Minsoo Park’s reply: Hello

=Abigail Berneau’s reply: How are you?

=Minsoo Park’s reply: Fine.

=Abigail Berneau’s reply: Your sister’s so cool!

=Minsoo Park’s reply: Well, thank you. Hey, we’re plaguing Haneul’s post.

=Abigail Berneau’s reply: Let’s talk on chat.


The conversation between her brother and Abigail made Jane giggle. It indeed sounded like she had a crush on him. Just as she was about to watch some YouTube videos, she received a Skype call… from her brother? She stood up, positioned her phone on her pillow and answered the call. On her screen, the bright and handsome face of Minsoo smiled at Jane, making her smile back.

“Hi, Jane!” Minsoo said. Jane waved back in response. “Did you take a shower?” She nodded. “I see. Are your friend with you right now?” She shook her head. “Got it. Got it. Anyway, what time is it?” Jane first pointed seven fingers and then a three and a zero. 7 and a half at night. “Seven thirty? Wow, It’s Thelve thirty in the afternoon here. It’s really hard when you’re sitting around in the house doing almost nothing other than practicing your cooking skills.”

I can’t wait for you to come here! Jane signaled. I miss your cooking! Indeed, Minsoo is the chef of Jane’s family. When she was fifteen, Minsoo was accepted to a Culinary university in France. He dreamed of being the succeeding master chef of his country.

“Yeah, can’t wait to see you again.” Minsoo replied. “Anyway, what did you do today?” Upon finishing, Jane stood up, held her phone and placed it on the dining table.

We went to the beach.

“Beach? That’s good.” Minsoo nodded as Jane stood from her chair and took a cup of instant noodles and placed it on the table. “Didn’t eat dinner?” Jane hummed, giving a nod. “I saw the pictures that you posted.” Minsoo’s words made her snap her full attention to him. “I’m glad that you have such nice friends that are with you at all times. You and your Korean friends suffered so much because of how different you were back here.” Jane could only nod as she poured boiling water into her noodles. “I understand how it feels. I remember mom and dad crying over it because of how much you’re bullied and the school transfers didn’t help. Hmmm… maybe it was a good idea to go to Ferngill Republic after all.”

Thank you! Jane signed as she dived into her noodles.


“Haneul, hurry up! We’re gonna miss the train!” Her father called, running down the stairs. Jane nodded as she followed his family down to the underground metro station. The platform was bustling with people waiting for the train. Some people were on the newly released smartphones, some others were sitting on benches while the rest were huddled up together as couples. Jane always wondered how it felt like to have a boyfriend. Jane stood near the edge of the platform where it met the rails. The nearest train was approximately two stations away, meaning that the commuters would have to wait for approximately two more minutes.

“Hey, want anything?” Minsoo asked, pointing at the vending machine. Jane shrugged. “The usual? Sure.” With that, he walked toward the machine. She smiled at her brother’s kindness as she stared at the notification board hanging by the ceiling. The train was now one station away and had just stopped. She started to shuffle her feet round in anxiety. She couldn’t wait to see her maternal grandmother. She missed her paternal Grandfather in Stardew Valley, but she knew that she can’t go back there anymore. Just as she continuously shuffled, her right foot lost friction, sending her falling…

…down on the rails.

She landed knee first on the hard steel beams of the tracks. The pain stayed for long as Jane screamed in pain.

“Haneul!” She heard her mother cry out. She wanted to call for help, but all that escaped from her broken throat were inaudible noises. “Somebody, help her! Please! That’s my daughter!” Jane looked up to find people staring down at her. Half of the faces were frantic while the other half filled with worry. However, nobody seemed to have reached out to help.

“Haneul! Grab my hand!” Minsoo called out, pulling his hand to her. However, the thirteen-year old boy’s hand was nowhere close to where Jane was.

“Minsoo, NO!” Jane heard her father pull Minsoo back. “Hey! Go tell the authorities to stop the-“

“The Train headed for Ogeum Station is now approaching. Please step behind the yellow life for your safety.”

The very echoing voice of the announcer shocked everybody. Jane looked up to find two flashing lights approaching her with fast speeds from the tunnel. She had to move fast.

“Haneul, roll to the corner of the rails!” Jane’s mother shouted. She knew that she had to, but her left leg didn’t respond. Every time she tried to move, it pained her excruciatingly. Most of her body was safe from the rails, but the faulty leg prevented her from clearing the tracks.

“Hurry! PLEASE!!” Minsoo’s voice cracked. Jane tried. She struggled, but she couldn’t move anywhere. When she looked up, she was greeted by the thunderous booms of the train approaching her.

“HANEUL!!!!” Multiple voices cried in unison as the blinding lights of the train met the face of crying Jane. She felt no pain afterwards followed by another loud boom.


Jane bolted up from her bed screaming. She looked around. She was still in her cottage. It was still dark as it was raining. Bright flashes of lightning occasionally blinded her window. It was a dream. Jane panted heavily as she lowered her head to find her left leg gone as usual. Whatever she had dreamed wasn’t just a regular dream. It told history. Just seeing the amputated limb made her cry. She wished that she was more careful…

BOOM!!!

Jane screamed in fear and buried herself in her pillow. She frantically touched her way to her phone and… she didn’t know what to do. It was seven o’clock in the morning. The song of the rain did nothing to comfort her as she sobbed away like a baby. She knew that what she was doing was stupid, but her fear made her involuntarily do the unthinkable: CALL somebody. She shakily tapped the loudspeaker and wailed as the speaker beeped. A part of her wanted him to answer.

“Hello?” A familiar groggy voice received the phone. It was Sebastian. “Jane? What the hell? I thought you are… wait, Jane?” He must have heard Jane’s sob.

BOOM!!!

Jane screamed even louder and burst into even more tears. “Jane?! Are you okay?!” Sebastian asked. Jane wanted to speak. Oh, how she wanted to. She could only cry harder as she heard Sebastian’s voice becoming more nervous and frantic. “Uh… uh… Jane! H-hang in there, alright?!” With that, Sebastian ended the call. Jane buried her face in the pillow, ignoring the time passing by unknowingly. Within a minute, She heard the door burst open, and Sebastian ran to her bed.

“Jane! Jane! Are you okay?!” He asked, shaking her shoulder. Thousands of past insults and memories tormented Jane’s ears and mind, blocking her friend’s words. She sobbed harder, hoping the pain will go away…

BOOM!!!

She screamed loud again, hugging her pillow tighter. She felt the raven-haired boy jolt by the sudden thunder. “Jane! Come on, please! Is everything okay?” She involuntarily shook her heard. Suddenly, she felt something fall in front of her. “Jane, please.” It was Sebastian. He had lain on the bed, trying to comfort her. Jane quickly grasped his body and pulled herself to his chest, crying her sadness away. “Hey, whatever happened, I’m sorry. Please, tell me you’re okay.” The raven-haired boy said worriedly. Jane finally nodded. The warmth that she felt on Sebastian’s body seemed to have seeped its way into her. She felt security. She felt safety. She felt… something that she didn’t understand. It made her blush.

“Glad to know that.” Sebastian said as he patted her back. An hour seemed to have passed as Jane made herself comfortable with Sebastian when he stood up. “Come on. We should go to my house and stay there for some time.” Jane looked up from the tear-soaked shirt of Sebastian to find that the rain had stopped and the sun shone through the window.


Thanks to the rain, there was no need for Jane to water her crops as nature did it in behalf. Sebastian strapped her on his motorcycle and put Iseul in a pouch and drove up the mountain. Robin ran to her son as soon as he opened the door.

“Sebby, what happened? Is Jane okay?” Robin asked.

“Yeah, she is. There’s…” Sebastian stared at Jane, then back to his mother. “…nothing to worry about.”

“Jane, I really hope you’re fine and well. You don’t know how worried Sebby was when you called.” Robin said to Jane. “Speaking of which, why call?” Jane gave a shrug. She had no idea what to do back then. “Okay, then. Sebby, do you mind if we talk?”

“Sure, mom. Sorry, Jane. This happens. Can you wait here until we’re done?” Sebastian asked with Jane nodding. The door closed behind him, leaving Jane outside of the Carpenter’s Shop with Iseul on her shoulder.

‘What do you think they’re talking about?’ Jane asked the Junimo.

“I don’t know. They could be talking about you.” Iseul replied. It noticed that Jane’s attention was at… a tunnel just beside the lake. “Are you curious of what that is?” Jane nodded. “That’s the mines.” It said. Jane did, however, remember that place. That was the very place where a slime attacked her throat, which made her mute. One side of her wanted her to look away, while the other side bolstered her curiosity. The curious side of her won the battle and made her slowly limp towards the entrance.

When she entered the dark cave, she noticed a man with white hair. He had a peg leg, wore an eye patch and had some sort sword sheath on his back. He was looking down on a hole until he noticed Jane’s presence. “Ah, you must be the farmer that everybody talked about, especially Sebastian.” The man said with a heavy Scottish accent.

You know Sebastian? Jane typed. Marlon had a hard time reading it, but he nodded once he understood.

“Why, yes. He works for me. I’ve heard some things about you. Your name is… Jane, correct?” Jane nodded. “I’m sure you’re wondering why I’m here. The mines have a lot of valuable and useful ore. These kind of mines are rare to find in the world, especially when they have monsters lurking around inside.” Although Jane knew about all of this, she nodded anyway. Suddenly, the man approached her with something wrapped around with cloth on hand.

“Here, I want you to take this.” The man said, handing her the object. Jane accepted the thing and unwrapped the cloth to reveal a small but rusty sword. “Don’t let your disabilities be your weakness, lass. I’m sure you’ll do well down there.” He said walking outside, but stopped just as he reached the exit. “The name’s Marlon Stenburg, by the way. I run the Adventurer’s Guild arm here in the Valley. If you prove yourself worthy, perhaps I can let you join.” Marlon finally walked away. Jane peeked down the hole to find rocks. Lots of rocks. Her memories when she was seven years old crept onto her once again.

“Maybe you should go down there?” Iseul suggested.

‘I lost my ability to speak here!’ Jane thought.

“Still. Marlon is right. You can’t let your disabilities be your weakness! Come on, Haneul!” Such motivation. Sighing, Jane slowly climbed down the ladder while trying her best to not let her prosthetic leg slip off as it will definitely spell her doom. Once she was down, she found… nothing. It was just quiet with rocks laying around the area. Turning on her phone flashlight, Jane slowly walked around the area with her sword on hand. She knew that she was in danger. She knew that she was weak. She knew that…

Squelch.

Jane quickly turned around to find one of her worst fears: A slime. It was disturbingly green and adorable as it slithered its way to her. The farmer started to tremble as Iseul watched from her shoulder. She grabbed the hilt of her sword as tightly as possible as she readied for either attack or defense. However, her past trauma prevented her from moving any further. Her muscles locked into place as she saw the trail of acidic cytoplasm left by the slime dissolve the rocks around it. The slime was now a few meters away from her when it contracted, ready to attack. Jane closed her eyes to accept her pessimistic fate when…

BANG!

Jane opened her eyes, startled by the thunderous sound to find that the slime was gone. What used to be the slime was now just pieces of jelly-like membrane and a glob of acidic cytoplasm. She turned to the source of the boom to find…

Sebastian.

He was holding a bolt-action rifle with a smoking barrel. His brows knitted into a frown as he twisted the bolt, letting the slug escape the rifle.

“What the hell are you doing here?” He angrily asked. Jane burst into tears as she dropped her sword and limped to him, tripping on a rock. Sebastian ran up to her to see if she was okay. “Why are you here in the first place?!” Unable to speak, Jane simply looked at him with wet eyes, making both of them blush. “Marlon sent you here, did he?” Jane nodded, making Sebastian sigh with a slight bit of anger. He helped Jane up and escorted her out of the mines safely, remembering to pick up the slug of the bullet that he had fired.


Jane followed Sebastian to a building with a sign that had sword drawn on it. “This is the Adventurer’s Guild.” Sebastian explained. “Marlon runs this place and I am a member and firearms specialist.” He gave a sigh. “Wait here. Let me talk to him about something.” He opened the door and closed it behind him. Once again, Jane was left outside. She decided to sit on the grass with the wall on her back while playing with Iseul. She enjoyed the silence for a few seconds until she heard slams on woods and muffled shouts.

“Are you insane, Marlon?!” The voice of Sebastian shouted. “You know that Jane isn’t in shape to fight!”

“Sebastian, your disabilities should NOT be your weakness!” Marlon’s voice replied.

“She could have died because of YOU! Look, Marlon! She can’t use a pickaxe properly! Why would you want her to go into the mines?”

“She’ll one day need to go in there to get the metal that she needs! Haven’t you thought of that? I understand that she’s your friend, but why are you so concerned about her?”

“Because I nearly watched her die! She’s the only one that understands who I am and… and…” Jane heard Sebastian’s voice crack. “God damn it, I don’t know… I just don’t… I don’t know what to feel about her.” She heard his sobs.

“Sebastian, I’m sorry. I should have informed you earlier about this. Still, she’ll need to go to the mines someday.”

“I know, Marlon. I’m sorry for shouting at you. Hey, if she has to go, let me go with her at all times. If she can’t handle a sword, I’ll train her to use guns, at least.”

“Good idea. I’ll prepare some targets if she’s interested, got it?”

“Thanks. See you later.” With that, the door swung open beside Jane, revealing Sebastian holding his rifle on his back. “You okay?” He asked Jane. She nodded as she took his hand. “Come on, let’s go back to my house.” He said as he escorted Jane back into the Carpenter’s Shop.

 

Double Chapter! Thanks to @MagicallyClueless for giving me the inspiration that Sebastian's a member of the Adventurer's Guild!

Upon entering his house, Sebastian helped Jane sit on the sofa in his room. “Make yourself comfortable.” Sebastian said as he walked to his secret closet and opened it. Inside was a collection of various firearms ranging from antique flintlocks to even the First World War bolt-action rifles. He turned his head to find Jane’s jaw wide open by the scene. “Surprised?” Jane simply nodded by his question. “You don’t have to. This is my dad’s weapon collection. Basically, this is the thing that reminds me of him. Gosh, I miss him…”


“Now, son. You hold the gun like this…” Sebastian’s dad adjusted the pistol on his son’s hand.

“Um… okay, daddy.” Sebastian hesitated as he held the gun as his father told.

“Now, try firing!” With his father’s words, Sebastian pulled the trigger. The hammer fell, followed by the thunderous bang from the barrel. The recoil sent the gun flying from his hand and land on the ground behind him. “Marlon, did he get it?” He asked. Marlon walked to the target dummy to check.

“Unbelievable! It’s a pinpoint shot right in the eye!” Marlon exclaimed. “He sure has your eye, friend!”

“Good job, Sebastian.” Father complimented the child, patting his head. Sebastian couldn’t be happier. He loved his father for teaching him such awesome techniques like firearm shooting and videogames. He saw his mother observing from the distance. He knew that she too was smiling.

“Daddy, I want to see you shoot your gun!” Sebastian pleaded. Father knelt down and gave him a big smile.

“Of course, Sebastian.” He said. He positioned his single-shot lever action rifle on his shoulder and aimed at the same target dummy that Sebastian shot in the eye. He aimed his rifle with utmost precision and pulled the trigger.

BANG!

The bullet tore past the air and hit the dummy straight in the head, exploding it into a million fluffy pieces. Father pulled the lever, causing the slug to fly out of his rifle. He placed another bullet inside and closed the mechanism.

“That’s so COOL!” Sebastian screamed. His father only chuckled. By how adorable his son sounded. “I want to try that rifle!”

“Now, son. You could barely hold your gun tightly. You can’t use my guns yet.”

“Aww, but daddy!”

“No buts, Sebastian. You are only four years old. The gun is…” Father hesitated. “Tell you what, why don’t you try holding it?” He said, handing his rifle at the child. Excited, Sebastian grabbed the rifle with both of his hands. However, the weapon was far too heavy for him as he barely stood on his feet. He held the gun like his father did, but he lost balance and fell forward.

“It… it’s too heavy, daddy.” Sebastian whined.

“Of course it is, Sebastian. You’re not ready yet.”

“I’m sorry, daddy.”

“It’s okay, son.” Father said, taking his rifle back. “Son, remember this. The day will come when you will be able to use a gun just like me. When that day will come, promise me that you’ll be a good boy and show what you’ve learned to anyone you feel comfortable with, okay?” He asked, holding out his pinky. A big smile formed on Sebastian’s face as he locked his own tiny pinky with his father’s colossal one into a pinkie-promise.


Sebastian snapped back to reality thanks to Jane tapping on his shoulder for his attention. He shook his head to focus on what was front of it. It was the same old armory that his father gave him. How long was he here? He didn’t know. “Anyway, what was I trying to do…” He wondered. “Oh, right.” He pulled a knob that pulled out a wardrobe. Inside was a bullet caster; a machine his father and now he uses to recycle his bullets.

Is that a sewing machine? Jane typed.

“No. It’s a bullet caster.” Sebastian replied. The farmer looked at him with a curious but adorable face. It caused some kind of surge inside him, but he pushed it away. “It’s technically a machine that makes bullets, but since I have a lot here and there is no gun store around, I recycle them.” He explained, pulling out the slug of the bullet that he had fired today. He reached for a large pouch of gunpowder, filled a small plastic up with the black powder and filled the slug with it. He silently coughed due to some of the gunpowder tickling his throat. He placed the filled slug on a percussion cap and put those two on the machine that had a shell ready. Sebastian pulled the lever, compressing the shell and the gunpowder inside the slug, which completed the bullet.

“Cool, huh?” Sebastian asked Jane who was watching him from behind. He put the recycled bullet into his bolt-action rifle and put the safety on. Anyway, I need to work. If you want to do anything, tell me.” He said as Jane eyed his TV in front of his bed that had his Xbox plugged in. “Yeah, you can play it. See if you can get my KDR up in Battlefield.” He jokingly added, making Jane playfully nudge his chest.


Sebastian wrote the last line of code needed to fulfill his client’s request when he saw Jane enjoying herself slaughtering her enemies with Sebastian’s account. He was amazed by how good she was as a scout. She did die a few times, but her vast amount of kills compensated her deaths. She seemed to use the Martini-Henry rifle that he had acquired years ago, but hasn’t used it for at least three months ago due to the weapon being downgraded by a patch. But now here he was, peeking at his farmer friend who didn’t seem to care about the nerf and played it like a professional. He remembered what Marlon had said to him and decided to ask her.

“Hey, Jane?” Jane gave a hum as a response. “You, uh… like to use the Martini-Henry, right?” She gave a positive hum as she shot a round straight at an enemy’s head. Her seventieth kill. Nodding, Sebastian walked back to his armory and opened it. On the top of the showcase was what Sebastian thought was the most valuable treasure that his father had given him before he disappeared down in the mines: The Martini-Henry breech-loading single-shot lever actuated rifle. It was a rifle over a century old, but it was polished and not rusted thanks to Sebastian’s utmost care to it. He would feel his father’s presence kicking Demetrius’s vile insults whenever he held the rifle. He looked up to find Jane very close to him and staring at the gun.

Is this the Martini-Henry?! Jane’s phone screen read.

“Yeah, it is. It’s my dad’s personal gun.” Sebastian replied, sitting on the bed beside her. “Anyway, I’ve talked to Marlon about the mines. He is right about the fact that you’re going to have to go to the mines if you want to make your farm bigger. Sure, the blacksmith has the materials you need, but his prices are unfair. I always suffer whenever I have to buy copper from him to make my percussion caps. Should I be honest? I’ve been consulting with my mom about Agria Farm and she agreed with me. Although it’s dangerous, with your current financial status, the mines are the only option.” Jane nodded in understanding.

“Seeing that your prosthetics won’t help you in holding a sword, I think guns are your only choice.” Sebastian concluded, taking out a M1911 pistol, his bolt-action M1903 Springfield rifle, a Webley Mk VI revolver and some ammunition and locked the closet doors shut. “He put the weapons and equipment in his backpack. “Marlon agreed to help you to train. I’ll be there, so don’t worry.”

Jane whined in protest but after a long pause and thinking, she finally nodded and Sebastian escorted her out of his room.


“Marlon, she agreed to train for firearms.” Sebastian called out as he opened the door of the Adventurer’s Guild. “Hello, Gil.” He said to a man sitting on a rocking chair at the left side of the building. The house gave a vibe of a medieval tavern where many mercenary and hitman contracts were made. However, this place was a place where the security of Stardew Valley was ensured. In other words, this was like the black knight police of this place.

“Sebastian. Jane. I see that you’ve finally acknowledged the importance of the mines. Welcome to the Ferngill Guild headquarters, Jane.” Jane gave a sheepish smile as she bowed down.

“So, Marlon. I’ve got the guns that my dad used. Remember those?” Sebastian asked.

“The guns? Of course I do. May I see them?” Nodding, Sebastian pulled out the Martini-Henry rifle and handed it to the guild master. “Ah, yes… this is what your father had used to shoot the heads off of skeletons…” Marlon murmured something else before giving the rifle back to the raven-haired boy. “Follow me.” He said, standing up from the counter filled with swords and armor. As Sebastian followed Marlon with Jane on his shoulder, he could see that Jane was partly engulfed with nervousness and curiosity. All of this was new to her.



They came to an open field surrounded by fences. The area where the three people were standing on was partially barricaded with a rock that was slightly taller than Sebastian’s waist. The rest of the field consisted of target dummies and beer bottles.

“This is the shooting range.” Sebastian explained to Jane. “Take a moment to familiarize yourself and come back to me when you think you’re ready to start your training.” Jane nodded before walking around the area. “Do you think she can shoot well?” He asked Marlon.

“Sebastian, nobody does well in their first try. You know that. Especially when I saw you training with your fath…”

“…But I was four years old at that time!” Sebastian hissed. “Every since he disappeared, I had to train myself!”

“I understand. Listen, nobody in the Guild can handle a gun better than you or your father. That’s why I’m counting you on training the girl, okay? In fact, you decided to do it yourself.”

“Right.” Sebastian agreed as Jane returned to the two.

Did something happen? Jane typed.

“Nah, everything’s fine. Ready to start?” Jane sheepishly nodded. “Alright.” The raven-haired boy said as he handed her the M1911 pistol. “Before we begin, remember that this isn’t easy like in Battlefield 1.”

It’s hard there, too! Jane typed, frowning.

“I’m joking. Hey, shooting is still better than using a sword.”

“I heard that!” Marlon shouted from the distance. Chuckling, Sebastian escorted Jane to the rock. He made sure that the targets were all in sight before starting to help her adjust her aim.

“Okay, try holding like what you’d do in the game.” With his words, Jane grabbed the gun’s stock with both her hands. She raised the gun to eye-level and then stared at Sebastian to confirm if she did it correctly. “Is the front sight in the middle of the rear?” He asked. Jane looked at her sights and adjusted herself, then nodded. “Now, before you fire, make sure to hold the gun tightly.” She nodded. “Now, try firing at any one of the targets.” Nodding again, Jane swung her body so that her gun was pointing at the closest target dummy which was approximately fifteen meters away. “Solid choice.” Sebastian said as he placed earphones in her ears to give her ears an easier life. “You may fire when ready.”

BANG!

The hammer fell, the slide pushed back and the bullet left the barrel with an air-ripping speed. Jane screamed at the sudden boom and her arms jolted up by the recoil. She collapsed onto the grassy soil. When Sebastian hurried down to help her back up, Jane was laughing.

‘Wow, she’s cute.’ Sebastian thought, blushing. “You okay?” Jane nodded while covering her mouth to hide her teeth.

It’s so fun! It’s hard, though.

“Yeah? You’ll get used to it.” He said as he walked to the target dummy that Jane had shot. It missed the circles by a few meters. “Not bad! Not bad for a first-timer.” He called. He turned around to find Jane squealing in delight as she bounced around. He sometimes wondered how she could do that with a prosthetic leg. “Alright, try to empty your clip and try aiming for the head.” Sebastian said, walking back to her. Nodding, she adjusted herself, tightened her grip and pulled the trigger once and twice, but slowly. She didn’t scream or collapse between each shot, but her arms kept jolting up due to the recoil.

‘I’m going to have to help her on that.’ He thought. After seven shots, Jane signaled him that the gun was empty. He went and checked the dummy to find only one had hit the head and the other either hit the body, missed entirely or accidentally hit another dummy. Sighing, Sebastian walked back to where he was, pulled out his revolver and emptied the cylinder on the dummy with all six bullets hitting its head. He found Jane staring at him with surprise in her eyes.

“Sorry. I wanted to do that.” He apologized, giving her a new magazine. “Here, let me teach you how to reload. It’s similar to the games we play.”


With every shot that Jane fired, her aim seemed to tighten to where she wanted to shoot. Her arms jolted less, meaning that she was getting used to the recoil, but not that much. Either way, Sebastian saw it as an improvement. With the last magazine expended, Sebastian nodded with a smile.

“Okay, that’s enough for the pistol.” Sebastian said. “It’s time for the big guns.” He added, holding out his father’s Martini-Henry. Jane’s eyes opened wide along with her jaws just by its sight.

It’s my favorite gun! She typed.

“And so it was my father’s.” Sebastian replied, grabbing all the slugs that were dropped from Jane’s gun. “Here, try holding it.” He said, handing the rifle to the farmer. He picked up his Springfield and positioned it on his shoulder. He saw that Jane indeed held it, but very incorrectly. “No, no hold it like this.” Sebastian said, twitching his neck to himself. He could see Jane’s determination to do it correctly but struggled to do so. Sighing, He dropped his rifle and approached her.

“Okay. First, you place your hand on the handgrip, not near the barrel.” He instructed, taking her non-firing hand and sliding it to near where her right hand was. “…and form the letter ‘V’ with your thumb and your index.” He said. As he tried to make the letter with her hands, he accidentally wrapped his fingers around her hand, making her blush and… smile? He paused for a while as he eyed her face and his face heated up, but quickly let go once he realized what he had done. He cleared his throat and continued. “Alright. Put the butt in the pocket of your right shoulder…” He repositioned the rifle butt as he said in Jane’s shoulder pocket. “Good. You’re grabbing the grip properly, which is fortunate. And seeing that your elbows are in the right position… hmmm…” He looked up to inspect what else was wrong. He found that Jane was still staring at him, blushing. Wow, she was so adorable even when holding a gun. “Uh.. s-so… re-relax your neck and… and… let your cheek fall naturally to the stock.” The hard part was here. He moved his hand around her rosy cheek to position her cheek on the stock. Due to her smooth skin, Sebastian looked away, trying to hide his blush. “Okay… y-you’re ready to fire.” He stuttered as he heard Jane pull the trigger. The bullet left the barrel of the century-old rifle with a loud crack, whizzing its way towards its mark. The raven-haired boy looked at the target dummy to find that it hit its mark! “Wow, you did it! That’s a ten pointer right there!” He complimented. Jane giggled a she gave him a high five. “Here, let me show you how to reload…”


The two exited the Adventurer’s Guild and walked back into the Carpenter’s Shop. They mounted Sebastian’s motorcycle and they stopped at Agria Farm. “Well, that was fun, wasn’t it?” Sebastian asked once Jane dismounted.

I loved it! You must teach me more! Jane typed, bouncing.

“Well, of course I will. I guess it equalized the fact that you’re teaching me sign language.” Sebastian said, then signaled with his hands: Am I right?

Jane vigorously nodded and tightly hugged the raven-haired boy.

Best student ever! She signed.

“Hey, maybe if we keep teaching each other this, you don’t need to use your phone.” Jane nodded. “Alright, thanks for the day.” He said, revving the motor, but something bugged him. “Hey, tell you what, how about if I give you my Springfield so you can practice it yourself?” He asked. Jane stared at him as if she wasn’t sure. “It’ll be fine. I trust you. Here, let me show you how to operate these kinds of things.” He assured, showing her how to operate the bolt in his rifle. He twisted the bolt, pulled it, pushed it back and reposition the bolt back town. “Easy, huh?” Jane nodded. “Okay. I’m going to give this to you for a week. I’ve give you twenty rounds to begin.” Sebastian said, handing her four clips with five bullets each. “Well, good luck. I’ll do my best to practice my sign language myself. See you tomorrow.” With that after a cheery and cute wave from Jane, Sebastian zoomed off of Agria Farm. As he enjoyed the wind slapping his cheeks, he could help but think about his friendship with her. She seemed to enjoy being around with him and even understood that he wanted to be different.

…Then it hit him. All this strange surge and feeling that he had felt whenever he was close to him… it all made sense. He knew that he now had a crush on her.

 

TRIPLE CHAPTERRRRRRRRR!!!!

Jane grasped the Springfield tightly as she saw Sebastian zoom out of the farm. She then looked down at the rifle, then for some reason, blushed. The day was very exciting, yet strange. First, she was comforted by Sebastian, then went into the mines, encountered what had caused her to be mute, found out that the raven-haired boy was good at shooting guns and finally, he helped her shoot a gun herself. Just thinking about how Sebastian was determined to teach her what he knew and how determined he was to learn what she knew… it just made her heart skip. She calculated in her mind about what happened and how it could match the warmth that engulfed her.

She realized. This was like in the K-Dramas. She was starting to fall in love with him.

She didn’t know what to do. She wanted to just consider him as a very good friend, but her heart betrayed her thoughts as she wanted to go even closer to him. She dared not to ruin the bond that was being created between her and Sebastian. She had come this far with him along with her other friends such as Abigail and Sam.

No. She pushed the thoughts off from her mind. The sun was still up enough for her to see clearly. She knew that she was stressed just by thinking about her feelings. She decided to use the gun that she was holding. She walked westward until she reached something. She noticed a structure that definitely stood out from the background. It looked… like an altar. An altar made of black stone and four candles vertically surrounding it. This was most interesting. Jane limped to it to check it out. Upon reaching, she noticed that there was something engraved on the altar. It was difficult to read at first due to the moss, but she could finally understand after some eye-squinting. It was in Korean.

I shall return three years after your arrival, my treasure.

Be Diligent.

Be Open-Hearted.

I cannot wait to see you again to grant you my greatest gift of all.

‘Strange.’ Jane thought as she walked away. She found the perfect spot for her shooting. A grassy area void of any woody vegetation. The nearest tree was approximately thirty meters away. She opened the bolt-mechanism and loaded a 5-round clip and closed it back. ‘Just like Battlefield!’ She thought. She remembered what Sebastian had told her and adjusted her body and her rifle so that it matched what he had instructed. His words rang through his head as she aimed down the sights on the closest tree and pulled the trigger.

BANG!!

The bullet tore through the air and hit something. Birds that rested flew away, chirping away in fear. She squinted her eyes to see if she hit her mark.

Barely.

The bullet had completely missed the tree hit a rock. Sighing, Jane twisted the bolt and picked up the slug that she had dropped. It was hot, but tolerable. She aimed and fired again. Another miss. Frustrated, she twisted the bolt and fired the third shot. This time, it finally hit the tree, but not where she wanted. Another twist on the bolt and another pull. The bullet got closer, but it still wasn’t enough, loudly grunting, Jane twisted the bolt roughly and fired her last shot. The bullet hit its mark… Just where she wanted! With the sound of the bullet impact, Jane could feel her anger and worries blow away like the chippings of wood that fell from the impact.

‘That’s enough for today.’ Jane thought and pushed her rifle back on its strap and swung it behind her. She found out that shooting this gun would not only help her in marksman, but act as a good stress reliever. As she walked back into her cottage, she couldn’t help but finally realize how congested the interior was. She had barely enough room to walk around due to all of her favorite stuff positioned around. Sure, she could get help from her friends, but she didn’t want to bother with them. That was when she knew that she needed a house upgrade. She remembered overhearing Robin talking about how she upgraded Sam’s house during a conversation with Demetrius. She flopped down on the bed and texted Robin.

Jane: Hello, Mrs. Callahan!

Robin: Hi, Jane!

Have you had fun with Sebby?

Jane: Of course! : )

Robin: Good to hear that!

So, what’s wrong?

Jane: Remember that you told me how you upgrade the townspeople’s houses?

Robin: You want one, too?

Jane: My cottage is too small for me to walk around.

In other words, yes. I may need that upgrade.

Robin: I’m happy to help!

Jane: What do I need?

Robin: Since you can’t give me the materials, I’ll give you a special offer!

Jane’s eyes widened. A special offer?

Robin: You may only pay 10000 Galleons!

I usually make my clients get their own wood.

Jane nodded. She checked her bank account to find that she had more than enough money. In fact, she had nearly twice the amount. For some reason, she started to feel greedy.

Jane: Sounds like a deal!

One more thing, though.

Robin: Shoot!

Jane: May I ask for a coop?

Jane was confident thanks to Iseul’s accompany that she could tend animals. Other than wanting to become a sign language teacher, she also wanted to work as a zookeeper. Perhaps now that she works in a farm, part of her dreams can come true?

Robin: That would cost 4000 Galleons.

Are you sure?

Jane: Yes.

Robin: Oh, I feel like dancing! This is like early Christmas!

Although we celebrate something else here…

Jane: lol

Robin: Okay, I’m coming down now with my tools.

Be sure to get your payment ready.

Jane: Is credit card okay?

Robin: We’ll see!

Jane gave a sigh. Strangely enough, this was the first time she would use her credit card. She was forbidden to use it until her high school graduation. She decided to take a nap while fantasizing about Sebastian.


“Hello? Jane?” Robin’s voice called from outside. Jane instantly stood from her bed and limped to the door. She opened it to find Robin smiling at her with a handful of blueprints on her left hand while a box of tools at the other. The farmer waved at the carpenter with a cheery smile. “Aw, Jane! You’re so adorable! No wonder Sebby wants to be with you!” Robin joked. Jane looked away, hiding her blush as the carpenter laughed at her embarrassment. “Sorry, I was just kidding. May I go inside?” Nodding, Jane let the carpenter in and shut the door behind her. She turned on the lights and took Robin to the table. “My, no wonder you asked for a house upgrade!” She remarked. Jane shrugged, but when she looked around to confirm the carpenter’s statement, she found Sebastian’s bolt-action rifle laying on the bed clearly visible! Jane hurried and hid the rifle under the bed.

“Is there something wrong?” Robin asked, but Jane shook her head. “Okay, then!” She shrugged as she unrolled her blueprints. Jane limped back to the table to see what was up.

“Okay. This is the graph paper that I will use to help you design you new house, okay? Don’t worry, as a special offer for how you’re so cute and how you are good friends with Sebby and Maru, I’ll fix the price for you.” Jane could only laugh with rosy cheeks by Robin’s joke. “Alright. I’ll try not to get too much into the words that you won’t understand, okay? Here we go. Your cottage is exactly eight meters in length and ten meters in width. That would be about… This big.” Robin draw a rectangle on the graph paper. “Now, what do you want in your house?” She asked.

Jane thought for some time. What would she want if she had a house on her own? She would definitely have a Living room and a Kitchen. For the first time upon coming to Ferngill Republic, she wished to cook real food. In fact, she was now on her last reserves of instant food. Suddenly, she remembered that her family will be coming over at Fall! She wrote her desire on the remote part of the graph paper with a pencil.

I want a kitchen, a living room and three rooms.

“Three? Why?”

My family’s coming over for a month.

“Really? Wow! I can’t wait to see your parents! I’ve heard about your brother from Sebby and Abigail!” Robin chirped. “Anyway, let’s not deviate from what we were doing. Okay. So, let me try refining what you want and draw a crude model.” She said, concentrating on drawing on the graph paper with the aid of scales. She finished with a diagram of a long rectangle approximately four times the size of the cottage diagram and was split into half. On the right part of the rectangle, there were three rectangles that were the same size as the cottage. Two were on top and one was at the right.

“So the left rectangle here…” Robin tapped on the long rectangle. “…will be the kitchen. The right side adjacent to that will be the living room. I will place electric sockets… here!” She drew a few circles at the lines. “These three squares will be the bedrooms. They will all be the same size as this cottage. In total, that would be… 6027 meters squared.” Jane nodded. “So what do you think? Should we go with this?” Jane couldn’t think of better alternatives. She was never interested in architecture, but thanks to Robin’s easy explanation, She could understand what was happening. Smiling, she nodded.

“Great! That does it for your upgrade! Now for…” She shuffled her graph papers until she found a blueprint. “…Your coop! It is twelve meters in length and ten meters in width. There will be a shutter door for your animals to get out and receive fresh air and a door for you to get in on the left. “ Robin explained, pointing her pencil at the corresponding areas. “Now, we need to get out so you can show me where you want your coop, okay?” Jane nodded, and thus was escorted by the carpenter outside. As Robin started embedding foundations made of wooden cylinders and ropes to signal how big the house will be, Jane thought of where the coop would best be built: right next to her house so that she could have quick access to it. “That was a fast choice! And a good one!” Robin nodded, and placed the foundation for the coop, too.

“Now, that would be a total 14000 Galleons!” Robin said. “Oh, by the way, you’re going to have to sleep somewhere else for about… eight days. Good think I have some spare materials back at shop…” She chuckled. Jane scrambled through her wallet and pulled out her credit card. “Right, you said that you’ll pay through credit card… I have an idea!” Jane’s eyes focused on hers. “I’ll let you sleep in my Shop! I’m sure Sebby will be more than happy to help you!” Robin said, calling Sebastian through her phone.

“Hello? Sebby? Yes, here’s the news. Jane asked for some construction projects and she needs a place to sleep. So… is it okay if she stays inside your house for eight days? Please?” A long pause followed before Robin’s face brightened up. “Really?! Oh, Sebby! You’re such a good boy! Can you come down to the farm and take Jane to our shop? Thanks! Bye!” Robin ended the call.

“Jane, Sebby will come pick you up! There will be a credit card payment machine at my counter, okay?” Jane nodded, slightly blushing by thinking about being with Sebastian for longer. In her heart, she wanted to, but her mind thought how awkward it would be.


Jane had recently packed some clothes and her computer when she heard Sebastian’s motorcycle stop at the cottage’s doorstep. She stepped outside to find the raven-haired boy talking with his mother.

“I mean, seriously, mom. Two weeks?! That’s kinda outrageous, don’t you think?” Sebastian asked.

“Sebby, Jane can’t chop down trees unlike the other townspeople! I hope you understand!”

“Ugh, whatever. Not that I’m complaining…”

“Aw, Sebby!” Robin cooed.

“Mom!” Sebastian whined when he saw Jane. “Hey Jane. Let me help you with your stuff.” He said, hosting Jane’s luggage and strapping them onto the bike. Luckily, there was space left in the seat for two.

“I’ll go back by foot while you take her to the Shop, okay?” Robin asked.

“Okay, mom. Jane, climb up!” With his words, Jane mounted the bike as it sped up the mountain. When the two arrived back at where they hung out just hours ago, Jane quickly placed her card in the payment machine until it confirmed the payment. “So, staying here… awkward, isn’t it?” Sebastian asked, blushing. Nodding, Jane typed on her phone.

We’ll get used to it. I brought my computer so we can play Sins of a Solar Empire together!

“That’s perfect! Let me help you set it up!” Sebastian beamed, pulling the luggage down to his basement room.

 

Please keep in mind that I wrote this chapter on my phone. Sorry for the bad quality.

The eight days when Jane had to stay in the Carpenter’s Shop went along for her and Sebastian. During the first four days while Robin cut down trees in Agria Farm to use for the construction, Sebastian and Jane tended the farm and helped his mother transport wood and rocks from where she acquired from and to the construction sites. Sebastian saw how eager Jane was to have a new house. After all, it was her family who’s going to come over.
When it became midday, they would go back to the Shop and spend their time together. During the second day, Sebastian made a decision to learn sign language from Jane every day during her stay. He had never seen her so happy when he declared so. His body warmed up whenever such happened. In exchange for his diligence, Jane seemed to become more determined to train her marksmanship with him. Despite being hard for her as she still had difficulty adjusting her firing position due to her prosthetics and the inability to kneel, she carried on, doing whatever she could, and Sebastian had difficulty training her with such challenges.
Not that Sebastian complained, however. As time passed, his sign language skills dramatically improved to the point where Jane didn’t have to use her phone to talk with him most of her time. He was just happy that the time of their conversations were shortened.
Video games and hangouts with Abigail and Sam awaited the two when their learning and teaching quotas were fulfilled. The duo’s friends had their fun joking about how Sebastian and Jane were too perfect for each other and they retaliated with flip-offs, blushes, hasty topic changes and friendzoning.
In reality, however, Sebastian wished that his friends were right.
The four would play Cards Against Humanity, Overwatch, take turns or even gang up against Jane in StarCraft matches if Abigail and Sam brought their laptops, only for the farmer to decimate them with superior strategy.
Upon reaching the last four days, official construction had began. By this time, Sebastian spent most of his time either helping his mother in hammering down nails, applying cement on bricks or helping Janen tending her crops. The sixth day provided Jane with her first Summer harvest of blueberries and peppers. So much of the sweet blue fruit came from this much plants. Sebastian almost burned out from all the labor and his programming work, but whenever he saw Jane’s adorable face, he felt motivated. He wanted answers to this phenomenon, but remained silent for now. He thought that the time isn’t just here yet. Thus, he decided to keep his feelings to himself to not ruin their bonds.

It was the last day of Jane’s stay in Sebastian's room. He and Jane had just recently returned from her marksmanship training. She was improving, but very slowly. She still had trouble getting her sights correctly, thus her shots were inaccurate. Other than that, she seemed to do fine. Sebastian was using his bullet caster to recycle the slugs that he and Jane fired when the farmer entered his room with dripping wet hair while wearing her pajamas of trainer shorts and an adorably white Overwatch T-shirt.
Wow. He noticed that her red and blue hair dye was temporarily invisible due to the water. Strangely, this was the first time he saw her dyed hair. “Hold on, let me finish this…” Sebastian said as he operated the caster to rebuild his last bullet. He then put everything back to its original position, washed his hands clean from the gunpowder and then returned to accompany Jane.
It’s my last day here. Jane signaled. Sebastian nodded as a response. He was glad that he could now understand most of her words.
“Yeah, I know.” He replied. “Did you like it?” Surprisingly, she nodded. It wasn’t just a tiny one due to embarrassment, but rather a confident and honest nod. He didn’t expect any positive answer. “Well, I’m glad that you liked being here. I thought my dusty room and strange sleep schedules might have bothered you.” Jane nodded. “Now I don’t have to worry about your parents scolding me because of how horrible of a host I was.” Sebastian chuckled.
I’m bored!
“Bored? Wanna play Sins? One on one?” He suggested and Jane smiled with positivity. She limped for her computer and turned on Sins of a Solar Empire. Sebastian created a private match and chose the Vasari Loyalists as his faction. Jane chose to be TEC Rebels and began the game.

The match ended with Jane barely winning with a military victory due to Sebastian’s cunning strategy to try to beat her with attrition warfare. He tried to use his factional advantage and his his Vorastra Titan and let her fleet destroy his capital planet while he escaped with his own fleet to sabotage Jane’s planets. Eventually, Sebastian’s fleet was compromised by Jane’s scout fleet, which ensued a massive and final battle between the two fleets when they met. Jane managed to win by one lucky shot with her Ragnarov Titan that destroyed Sebastian’s titan.
“…and that’s how I lose my title as the Sins master.” Sebastian said, sighing. He heard Jane giggle before the Skype ringtone sounded from her computer. “W-who is it?” He asked.
My brother. Uh-oh. His room looked nowhere similar to her cottage.
“What do we do? Your family’s going to kill us!” Sebastian cried as the call request continued. He settled town to think. What would her parents think of their daughter when they would find her in a boy’s room right next to the boy? More exactly, how would Asian parents react? He couldn’t remember what the Internet had taught him. As he saw Jane looking at him as if she was panicking, he decided to let fate decide. He took a deep breath and opened his mouth. “Accept the call.”
Are you sure?
“Don’t worry. I hope Minsoo will understand” with that, Jane curiously nodded and shakily accepted the Skype call. Once she did, her computer screen portrayed the young handsome Asian man with a celebrity-style bowl hair cut slightly dyed brown. He was lean and wearing a… chef apron?
“안녕, 하늘! (Hi, Haneul!)” Minsoo beamed, lightly waving. Jane waved back with both of her hands in return. Her brother’s eyes seemed to look at Sebastian for a brief moment as he opened his mouth again. “Sebastian? What are you…”
“I can explain.” Sebastian stuttered.
“You sound like you slept with my sister in the same bed.” The man joked, chuckling. “I hope you didn't go that far.” He added. Sebastian looked away while Jane whined in denial, both of them blushing. Half what her brother had said was correct, though. “Yeah, I’ve heard it from mom. You told her that you’re staying on this guy’s house for eight days.”
“Yup. May I ask you one thing?”
“Go ahead.”
“What’s with your clothes?”
“These?” Minsoo asked, tugging on his apron. “I thought my sister told you?” The raven-haired boy shook his head in denial. “Well, I work in a restaurant in Seoul, so that explains one part. Also, I’be been in a photo shoot with a friend, which explains the last half. Today’s my day off.”
“I see.” Sebastian nodded.
“Haneul, mom told us that you’ve been already preparing for our arrival. I’ve saw your Facebook pictures of your new house construction. It already looks good, judging by the most recent photo!” Minsoo complimented his sister.
The conversation lasted for twenty minutes until Jane’s brother ended the call. Sebastian noticed that it was already 10: 30 PM, thus he suggested his friend to read some of his favorite science-fiction novels, which she accepted unusually gladly. They sat together on Jane’s sleeping mattress and read. Sebastian talked about his favorite parts of each books while Jane listened and replied with her opinions with sign language and phone text if there were words that couldn’t be said through hands.
The raven-haired boy couldn’t help but to be curious about Jane’s hair dyes. Her frontal right hair was red while the left blue. “Uh… Jane, what’s with your hair?” He asked. Caressing her hair, Jane began to type her response.
I dyed it during an esports match three years ago at Blizzcon. I wanted to show that I really supported my country team.
“…and you haven’t erased it?” Sebastian asked. “I mean, I’m not complaining, but…”
I like it, my friends liked it. Jane shrugged. They continued reading until Sebastian felt something fall on his shoulder. He looked to find Jane had fallen asleep with her head resting on his shoulder. It was already 11: 30PM.
‘Time really passes’ he thought as he took one last glance at her cute face and finally laid her soft head down on her pillow before walking to his computer. He had unfinished work to do.

Sebastian typed away lines of code on his scripting program as he usually does before going to sleep. It has been a few weeks since he quit smoking thanks to Jane’s plea. He started to feel more alive ever since. He felt his body warm up and cough less.
‘That’s a big plus.’ He thought. He concentrated on his work in complete silence.
Strange. Silence isn’t in his dictionary whenever somebody stays over in his room. He would be bothered by Sam by his horrible jokes and his turbojet engine-level snoring when they would sleep.
But Jane… she was different. She was so silent. She understood that he liked to be left alone when heels working, which was very unlike his other friends and even his mother. Perhaps that’s one of the reasons why Sebastian would sheepishly smile whenever he saw her? Who knows. He gave a sigh of contentment when he submitted his work to his client and received transaction. ‘Another order done.’ He thought, yawning. Just as he was about to close the computer and go to sleep, he received a message… from Sam? This time, the blonde boy wasn’t alone. Abigail was also in the chat.
Sam Arvidel: It’s the half of the dream couple!
Abigail Berneau: All hail our king Sebastian!
Sebastian sighed before typing his reply.
Sebastian Callahan: go to hell, you two.
Why did you call me?
Abigail Berneau: How’s Jane?
Sebastian Callahan: She’s sleeping
why do you care?
Sam Arvidel: Boo. I thought u would be having a gud time with ya
Sebastian Callahan: Shut up
I was working with my programming.
Abigail Berneau: Not looking at Jane’s face? ; )
Sebastian Callahan: Was that necessary?
He just wanted to punch them in the face with a brass knuckle. However, he couldn’t lie; he was indeed staring at Jane’s face while he flustered.
Sam Arvidel: You should wake her up
Let’s play Overwatch
Sebastian Callahan: She has to work tomorrow, you idiot
Sam Arvidel: : (
I wanted to rank up with her
Abigail Berneau: We’ll play together then
Are you in?
Sebastian Callahan: Fine.
BUT NO MEI ICE WALL TROLLING!
Finally, something that Sebastian accepted. A Overwatch match with two of his friends. It was too bad Jane wasn’t awake to play together, though.
After making a party with Sam and Abigail, he played as Zenyatta, Abigail played as Reaper while Sam played as… Mei. Frustrated, Sebastian typed on the game chat.
SHADOW: Sam I said no mei
Star98: lol too bad
‘Not this junk again…’ Sebastian sighed as the match started. As he played supportive for his team, something seemed to divert him from the gameplay. It wasn’t long before he noticed that his eyes continuously turned to Jane. She was silent as ever. She never snored nor moved around violently. With the combination of Iseul the Junimo sleeping in Jane’s arms, Sebastian couldn’t help but smile at how cute they looked. He snapped back to reality when he found himself back at the spawn point. He continued playing while trying his best not to divert his attention to Jane. After a few matches, Sebastian called for the day and went robbed right beside her mattress. He dreamt about her.

Sebastian dropped Jane off back to Agria Farm along with her belongings next to her new house and coop. He secretly smiled at how exited Jane was when she limped around the house. It was definitely larger than her cottage and included three bedrooms, a kitchen and living room. The raven-haired boy helped her in her farm chores, cleaned some furniture and finally ended their eight day sleepover. As Sebastian rode his bike back home, he wished that all of what happened was a date in the bottom of his heart.

The Luau Festival was the next day, which was the 11th of Summer. Sebastian mounts his motorcycle and sped down the mountain after a quick breakfast of toast. When he stopped near the farmhouse, he saw Jane already waiting for him with her tools ready. Sebastian gladly helped her in the farm and everything was ready.
“So, what are you going to bring for the Luau?” Jane replied to his question with a bag full of very good cauliflowers. He remembered helping her root these very vegetables out from the soil during her early days here. Oh, how times had passed. The farm was barely half the size of how it is now. He checked the clock to find that it had struck twelve. “Time to go. People are gonna be annoyed, as they always are.” He said, helping Jane on his bike. He revved the engine and drove eastward.

 

New Chapter! I posted this without my parents' permission!

Jane braced herself on Sebastian’s waist as the motorbike sped through Pelican Town. The raven-haired boy steered southward and parked near the beach. He helped Jane dismount the bike and escorted her to the sandy ground. “You’ve been to tropical festivals, have you?” He asked. Jane nodded. Her family would go to Sokcho and spend some days of Summer there joining beach parties. However, Jane partially hated the overcrowded place. Now, she hoped that the Luau wasn’t like that.


Jane giggled as she torpedoed towards the beach. It has been five days since she lost her voice down in the mines.

“Slow down, haneul! You know I can’t catch a bunny like you!” Her grandfather chuckled. She ignored him and looked around. The place was bustling with townspeople. Marnie Lannister, the ranch owner, was igniting a giant campfire with a cauldron on top. Gus was laying down plates and plates of mouth-watering food down on long tables. That wasn’t why Jane was here, though. She searched like a surveillance camera until she found Abigail and Sam making a sand castle. Exited, she bolted towards her friends and they noticed her. Abigail squealed as she accepted Jane’s crash to her body.

“Are you okay, Jane?” Abigail asked. Although it slightly stung, Jane maintained her smile and nodded.

“Hi Jane!” Sam greeted her and she greeted him back with a hug. “I’m hungry!” He whined.

‘Didn’t you eat breakfast?’ Jane wrote on her notebook.

“N-no! Mom told me to skip it! I don’t know why!” He replied, staring at the food. Jane turned to where he was staring to find the very raven-haired child that slept with her two days ago. “Oh, it’s Sebastian.”

‘Have you tried being friends with him?’

“I’m trying but…” Jane was already hopping towards Sebastian before Sam could finish. When Jane threw herself to the raven-haired child, Sebastian fell to the sand while she laughed at how flustered he was.

‘Wanna dance?’ She asked.

“D-dance? But…” Before he could finish, Jane was dragging Sebastian to her closest friends as the marimba of the music sounded from the speakers.


When Jane limped into the beach, all of the townspeople seemed to be having a good time. Just like how she remembered, Marnie was preparing the cauldron for the potluck soup, Gus was laying the food that he had cooked on rows of tables covered with white cloth and Lewis was coordinating everything.

It was just how Jane remembered the last time she was here. The only differences were the ages of the people and that Sam was now in charge of checking the sound system and dancing with Penny.

‘If only…’ Jane thought as Abigail approached her.

“Hi, Jane!” Abigail chirped. “It’s the dream couple!”

“Abby, it’s getting REALLY old.” Sebastian grunted.

“It’ll never get old, Seb. Am I right, Sam?”

“Correct!” Sam yelled from the distance, making Jane blush. She had to force her eyes from turning to her raven-haired crush.

“Anyway, what did you bring for the potluck?” By Abigail’s question, Jane pulled out her cauliflower bag. “Ooh! Straight from your farm?” Jane nodded, placing the bag back onto her shoulders.

What did you bring? Jane typed.

“Well, I didn’t… but my mom brought leeks and onions that she got from her garden for the soup. My dad… I think he brought some meat. I don’t know.”

What did you bring? Jane signaled Sebastian.

“Oh? Uh… My mom thought it would be a good idea to bring mushrooms. I don’t mind, but Demetrius… that guy brought chicken stock powder.” Sebastian scoffed.

My brother would go bananas against that stock. Jane replied. Sebastian, understanding her hands, hummed in response.

“Aww, you now talk to each other through sign language?! THAT’S SO CUTE!!” Abigail cooed.

“Can you please not?” Sebastian grunted.

The teenagers were having their time of their life when Lewis walked to them. Jane bowed deeply to show her usual respect to elders. “If only your friends were like you.” The old mayor quietly said. “Anyway, have you brought anything for the potluck? I can’t wait to see how Agria Farm has improved!” Jane smiled as she showed her bag full of cauliflowers. “Ah, yes. That’ll make a fine soup! Those who brought ingredients are now placing them in the cauldron. You should follow me.” Just before departing, Jane glanced at her friends.

“We’ll be waiting. Don’t worry, Jane.” Sam assured.

“Right, Jane. You should get going.” Sebastian added. Thus, Jane gave him a sweet smile before following Lewis to the middle of the commotion.


By the time Jane had arrived, Caroline had added her ingredients in the cauldron. It was her turn. She stepped closer to find that the cauldron. It was now the farmer’s turn. She stepped closer to find that the cauldron was way bigger than she had anticipated. In fact, it was COLOSSAL. It was as tall as Jane’s shoulders and its width was wider than her height. For a 40-serving soup, this was very impressive. Just as she was about to bring her cauliflowers, she met one of her worst enemies: Stepladders. It wouldn’t have been if it weren’t’ for her prosthetic leg. Jane frantically looked around as people stared at her as if they were confused.

“Oh my god, Chopstick Leg! Hurry up! No wonder people hated you back in Korea.” Haley gloated from a distance. Jane wanted to cry. If only she could climb simple wooden steps…

“Jane?” A familiar voice called. Jane looked towards the source of the voice to find Sebastian. “Let me take care of that for you.”Smiling with gratitude, she handed Sebastian her bag with a blush. Flustered, he took the bag and walked up the steps.

Meanwhile, Jane took the liberty to overhear conversations between Jodi and Robin.

“Jodi, have you wondered why the Province Governer isn’t here yet? He always comes for the Luau early!” Robin said.

“I’ve heard from Lewis that he’s too busy with financial affairs. What a shame. He won’t get to see our new farmer this year.” Jodi replied. Robin nodded in agreement.

“Say, have you heard? Her family’s coming to visit her farm at Fall! I’ve heard Sam that they’ll stay here for a month.”

“A month? Oh, I wonder what they’ll do here. I do remember Jane talking to someone in Skype Chat in Korean. Maybe it could be her brother? Looks like Sebby’s going to make another friend!”

“Sam also told me that Jane’s brother work in a restaurant in Korea. I wonder how he’ll differ from Gus.” Jodi added. As Jane listened to the two women, she noticed Sebastian holding her now empty bag.

“I did it. Come on, the soup’s gonna take some time to make. Let’s go to the docks and meet up with Sam and Abby.” He said, escorting Jane there.


Some time had passed when Jane, Sebastian, Abigail and Sam were talking about the farmer’s family when Lewis called everyone for the food. The townspeople gathered around the cauldron as Marnie poured the reddish-brown broth into wooden bowls and handed them to whoever wished to eat. Among the four teenagers, Jane was the only one to take a bowl. She gave a sniff. Wow, it smelled amazing. Anticipating that it’ll also taste good, she took a spoonful of the hot liquid and took a sip. As the liquid slid down her stomach, Jane couldn’t fathom how delicious it was as she sped up her eating.

“I guess it’s THAT good.” Abigail said to Sam, pointing at Jane.

“Maaybe.” Sam shrugged as Jane slurped away.

“Let’s just get our food.”

“Yeah.” Sam agreed, taking a plastic plate from the table. When Jane found her bowl empty, she found Sebastian with his own bowl of soup, slowly indulging it.

You like it? Jane signaled.

“Yeah! I really like the cauliflower-y taste.” Sebastian replied. “I usually don’t drink the soup, but… wow. This is really good!” He added, taking another spoonful. “Go get your food. I’ll follow you guys later.” With that, Jane placed her bowl in the cleaning bucket and took a plate for her food.


The Luau ended at five in the evening when people finished cleaning the beach. Jane volunteered to help her elders clean up, which Lewis scolded her friends that they should be like her and ordered them to clean up as well despite Jane’s refusal for help. Eventually, everybody helped each other pick up trash that the townspeople left behind and threw them in the large bin, although Sam occasionally buried some trash into the sand. Jane placed those into the bin later on.

The Valley showered Pelican Town with the song of the rain when everything in the beach was like how it was before: Clean and sandy, although the rain made it wet. Abigail and Sam had followed their parents home, leaving Jane looked around for her friend… and crush. ‘Where is he?’ She thought until she turned to the dock to find the raven-haired boy in his thin black hoodie that she knew. He didn’t seem to care about the rain unlike Jane, who was covering her hair with her bag. Jane immediately struggled through the wet sand and limped across the dock. When she neared him, Sebastian turned around to meet his eyes with hers which caused a surge in Jane’s heart.

“Hi, Jane.” Sebastian said.

What are you doing?

“I was just looking at the…” He turned around. “…Background.” Jane nodded in understanding. The dark clouds showered the Gem Sea with fresh rain as it moved across the skied guided by the wind. “Whenever it rains, I always come here to spend my time alone. I feel so awkward when I’m with people, even Sam and Abby.” He then turned to Jane.

‘Oh my god, is this a confession?!’ Jane screamed in her mind.

“…But I don’t feel that way with you.” Never mind. The farmer’s heart fell upon the anticlimactic words. She felt her torso getting heavy due to the rainwater drenching her clothes. She wanted to say that she needed to get home, but she couldn’t because Sebastian opened his mouth. “We’re getting soaked.” He said, pulling out an umbrella. He tugged it open. “Here, there’s space for two.”

‘This is just like the dramas!’ Jane squealed in her heart as she slowly, but sheepishly shuffled closer to him until his umbrella defended her from the rain. She slowly rested her head on Sebastian’s shoulder as she let herself be mesmerized by the sea and the rainclouds. Her heart felt like it would burst any second. She wanted to be closer to him. Oh, if only she had the courage to confess.


Sebastian gave Jane a hug before taking off to the mountain. As she saw him disappear, Jane quickly entered her house and shut the door tightly behind her. Leaning on it, she tightly grasped her chest as her face turned into a tomato. Was this the closest she had ever approached Sebastian? No. She kissed his cheek twice. Whatever happened today… this was different. But what?

Jane collapsed on the ground. She didn’t know what to do. She wanted somebody to be with her right now so she could pour out everything that was in her heart, but she was alone right now. She could relieve her emotions and stress with her borrowed rifle, but it was raining. If only she could find someone that she could consult her feelings with…

‘Consult…’ Jane thought. She had done such thing in her life, despite barely being helpful. Then it hit her.

Minsoo!

If someone could deeply understand her more than her parents, it would be Jane’s brother. She loved him and he loved her. People considered the two as the perfect siblings where the brother protected the sister at all costs due to her numerous disabilities. Not only he helped her in physical confrontation against her bullies, he would sometimes help Jane with some advices.

Yes, that was it! Jane rose from the ground, limped into her room and powered her computer on. She turned on Skype and opened a text chat with Minsoo.

-Haneul Park: Hi, 오빠(Brother)

No response. He must be working right now. Maybe it wasn’t wise to talk to him until he fulfils his job quota. Jane decided to close the chat for now just after the she saw Minsoo’s response.

-Minsoo Park: Hi Haneul.

What’s up?

Jane gave a sigh of relief before continuing tapping on her keyboard.

-Haneul Park: Aren’t you working?

-Minsoo Park: There are no orders in the restaurant yet, so I’m free for now.

-Haneul Park: That’s great!

-Minsoo Park: It is. I get to talk to you, my fellow colleagues and one of your friends.

-Haneul Park: Abigail?

-Minsoo Park: Apparently so.

I don’t know how she got my Skype, though

Did you give her?

-Haneul Park: Yeah. Sorry

-Minsoo Park: It’s okay

She’s interesting, anyway

What’s up?

It was time. This would be the first time that she would open up on her brother about her crush, Sebastian. Wow, just by thinking of him made her heart feel like bursting.

-Haneul Park: I need your help

-Minsoo Park: Did something go wrong?

You’re pregnant?

-Haneul Park: NO!

-Minsoo Park: ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

-Haneul Park: It’s Sebastian.

-Minsoo Park: What did he do?

I’ll beat the living hell out of him

-Haneul Park: He’s a good guy, 오빠

I have a crush on him.

Al long paused followed. A second seemed to last a year for Jane as she collapsed on her hands, readying her tears to dribble down her rosy cheeks. She hoped that Minsoo won’t spread this news to Sebastian as she wasn’t ready to reveal her feelings to him yet. She escaped her thought train when she received a Skype call. It was her brother. She shakily accepted it after adjusting her camera.

“Haneul?” Minsoo called. Jane covered her face as she sheepishly waved at him. “We should talk about this, sis. I think I know what you want from me.”She nodded. “You want my consulting, right?” Another nod.

I don’t know what to do. I think I fell too hard on him. Jane signaled. Minoo nodded, trying to think what to say.

“Haneul, among my experiences on having relationships… Hey, you haven’t been on one, haven’t you?” Jane shook her head. “Really? I thought you were going out with Hyunsoo?” She shook her head again vigorously.

He’s just a friend.

“Okay, I’m sorry. Anyway, looks like it’s time for the dating master to help you!” Minsoo joked. Jane gave a small laughter that released some of her tension. She knew that he had some girlfriends in his life, but didn’t know how he confessed or broke up. He hasn’t been in a relationship in three years after his recent heartbreak.

‘At least it’s better than being a forever alone…’ Jane thought.

“Okay. What do you like about him? I barely talked to him because I could only do so when he was with you during our Skype calls.” Minsoo questioned, making the farmer think for some time. She scraped up what she liked about him the most and managed to compile them in her mind just as Minsoo gave her a funny look. “You can type it in chat if there are some words you can’t say.” He said.

He has the same interests as me. We like the same games and the same book series. He’s a loner and is misunderstood as a slacker while he’s so diligent and kind in the inside. I love that he wants to help me at the farm.

“Hmm, that makes sense. You do like him for his inside, huh? It’s very different from my last ex.” Just as Minsoo finished, a person that was anonymous to Jane approached him.

“Hey, who’re you talking to?” The man asked.

“Oh, it’s my sister. Do we have a new order?” Minsoo asked him.

“Well, nobody usually comes to this restaurant until four in the afternoon. We have time.”

“Alright. Can you give me some space? I’m talking personal stuff with her.” Minsoo replied, pointing at his phone screen, which was pointing at Jane’s face.

“Okay, Minsoo.” The man nodded, walking away.

“That was my colleague.” Minsoo explained to her sister. “Anyway, what did you do? How did you interact with him?”

He helps me take care of the farm and I teach him sign language. We hang out more often than Abigail and Sam.

“Uh-huh. How did you grow your feelings for him?” By this, Jane started typing on the chat instead of using sign language.

-Haneul Park: It all started after the Flower Dance. Sebastian danced with me personally after everybody rejected me as a dance partner. Something started to grow on me as he started to become more kind to me and I returned by being friendlier to him. I finally realized that I was in love with him after he soothed me during a thunderstorm. The closest I’ve been to him was when I kissed him in the cheek.

A short paused followed, making Jane presume that Minsoo was reading the long text until she returned to the video chat.

“Kiss? Wow, you’ve gone pretty far.” Jane nodded. “Okay, I see that you’re REALLY into him. Let’s see… To be honest, I support your heart. I do agree that Sebastian seems to really protect you and help you on your work. That’s something a girl can fall for, I think.

“Love, Haneul, is something really complicating. You may not understand because you’ve never been on a relationship before. There’s nothing to be sorry about. Whenever you have a crush on someone, you want to confess, right?” Minsoo asked. Jane nodded again, fully determined to even jot down his words through paper. “It’s like a game of StarCraft, Haneul. It’s completely random. You’re surrounded by the fog of war and have no idea how your opponent will act to win a game. It’s just like falling in love. You have absolutely no idea or at least think how your crush feels. Just like the game, you plan ahead and go for it! If it succeeds, congratulations! You’ve just escaped the single-zone! You’ve won the game and outwitted your opponent! If not, well… you’re going to have to move on.

“I understand. Sebastian always comes to your farm to help, so you’ll always stick close to him. But if he rejects you, you can just stay as best friends and move on! It’ll be painful because… I’ll assume that you know. I’ll tell you this: According to my experience, confessing in beautiful backgrounds will increase your successes. Do you have any events in the Valley? Like… the New Years fireworks at the night sky?” Jane took a quick glance at her phone calendar. There were only two festivals during Summer. One was the Luau which was today, and the other was…

The Dance of the Moonlight Jellies.

She didn’t remember how it was like, but she did remember that it was always bright. 28th of Summer. Jane nodded. Perhaps then would be perfect. She showed her phone screen to her camera.

“Dance of the Moonlight Jellies? Sounds good enough. Try to go for it then! Remember, I’ll always help you. For now, I have to go. A new order just appeared. Stay strong, Haneul! Good luck with your love!” Minsoo said, ending the Skype chat. Jane collapsed back on her chair, blushing. Confessions… this was something that she had never done before.

Can she do this?

 

Sorry for the REALLY late update! I was slightly busy with studies and school trip to Nepal was just over! Forgive me, lords of Stardew Valley!

‘I blew it! I God Damn blew it!’ Sebastian snarled at himself as he parked his motorcycle in the Carpenter Shop’s garage. Taking some rain, he opened the door, ignored his mother’s greeting and entered his room. Closing his door tightly, he collapsed onto his couch. ‘How can I be so stupid? I had my chance RIGHT THERE!’ he thought. A rainy day together sharing an umbrella at the docks… Sebastian couldn’t think of better alternatives. He imagined how it would have been if he actually took his chance to confess…


Sebastian and Jane stared at the wideness of the sea accompanied by the dark, rainy sky. His eyes were locked onto her cheek. Despite being wet, it looked so… smooth. So pure. His heart couldn’t take it. It felt like it was going to detonate like a atomic bomb. Nodding, the raven-haired boy opened his mouth. “Jane?” She looked at him. His cheeks were rosy enough at this point. Jane wrapped her bottom lip on the top.

“You know, we’ve been together for a while, right?” He asked and he nodded. “What do you think of me?” Wait, wrong question. His mind panicked at this moment.

‘You’re such a nice person. You’re diligent, nerdy, different…’ Jane signaled.

“Wow, that’s interesting.”

‘…just like me.’ She added. Sebastian’s heart skipped a beat. He knew that all along, but the way Jane showed it was… heartwarming. She stared at him as if she wanted to ask why.

“I’ve been thinking about the way we see each other, you know? We’re helping each other like we’re meant to be…” He shuffled around his mind for the right word. Alas, there was none. Sebastian decided to use the first word that came into his mind. “…Family.” Jane nodded. This was it. The mood seemed to perfect to not initiate. He would now reach the Point of No Return.

“Gah, this is hard.” Sebastian muttered. “Okay, if the strings of fate tell me so, you’re probably thinking what I’m thinking right now. I… I…” He stuttered.

“I like you, Jane. I can’t get you off of my mind.” He suddenly felt Jane’s eyes widen and jaw drop. It soon turned into a smile. What did that mean? IS THAT A YES OR A NO?! Sebastian screamed in his mind. Just as his face slowly turned into a tomato…

Jane nodded.

“Really?!” Sebastian exclaimed. He turned back, throwing his head back in laughter while making sure to protect Jane from the rain. He laughed and laughed by how easy it was all along and he had been scared for nothing. He turned back to her. Her smile was so wide that her white teeth shone. He could see her eyes sparkle with joy. “Are you serious?!” Jane nodded again. “Say it! SAY IT!” He screamed in happiness, despite knowing that she couldn’t speak. Jane started to nod vigorously at this point. Sebastian had won. He threw himself to the farmer, wrapping his arms on her chest. She squeaked happily as the raven-haired boy’s umbrella fell to the water below.

“First date?” Sebastian asked, locking his eyes on hers. Once again, Jane nodded. His arms slipped down onto Jane’s waist and her arms snaked around his neck as the two engaged into a passionate kiss. “사랑해 (I love you.)” He muttered in her lips as the rain fell just for them.


“It would have been so if I weren’t so cowardly!” Sebastian screamed at himself. It would have been perfect. His heart felt like it was about to burst into agony. He would normally take a cigarette and smoke to get rid of this sensation, but he liked Jane. He couldn’t break her promise. The missed confession was no excuse. What could he do?

Just as Sebastian buried his head in his knees, drowning himself in his thoughts, the door opened, revealing Robin. “Sebby? I heard you scream and…” He heard his mother’s words cut. He felt her approach him, sit down next to him and place a hand on his shoulder. “Sebby, are you okay?” The raven-haired boy simply mumbled inaudible noises. “Did something happen to you?” He shook his head again. Then, something in Robin snapped.

“It’s Jane, isn’t it?” It was the nail in the coffin. Sebastian involuntarily nodded before realizing what he had done. Too late. He heard his mother chuckle. “Oh, Sebby. What did she do to you?” Sebastian had no choice. He slowly raised his head to speak.

“I screwed it, mom.”

“Hm?”

“I missed it. The chance.”

“Confession?” He nodded. “So you DO like her! Yoba, you’re FINALLY opening yourself! I’ve been waiting so long for you to do that! How long have you liked her? Ever since she came here?” He shook his head.

“...since the Flower Dance…” He groaned.

“Why didn’t you confess today? You like the rain and I saw you with Jane at the port after the Luau!”

“I was scared.” He mumbled, in which Robin returned with a gasp of disbelief.

“Sebby, how long are you going to live inside your shell? I understand that you like to be left alone, but I can’t bear to see you suffer because you’re struggling to start a love relationship! I want to help you, Sebby.”

“It’s too late, mom. She must have lost the mood right now. God, how the hell am I going to face her?”

“Sebby, it’s never too late for love!”

“She’s all I think about…”

“AWWW!!!!” Robin cooed.

“Mom!” Sebastian raised his head and whined. “I thought that the festive times would be the perfect opportunity, but it’s gone.”

“Sebby? Did you forget that there is ONE more Summer festival?” By Robin’s words, the raven-haired boy thought for a while. What was it? He couldn’t remember. “The Dance of the Moonlight Jellies?” Oh yeah, that’s what it was. It was the festival where Sam nearly killed him by pushing him off of the port at 2016. “Should I be honest? Your father confessed his love to me during that festival, and because the jellies were so beautiful and it fit the mood so well, I accepted!”

“What does that have to do with me and Jane?” Sebastian asked.

“Why not try it again there? Build up your courage once more and confess to her in somewhere empty! I’ll tell your step-father to not interfere!” A mouth-watering deal. Sebastian nodded after a short pause.

“Alright. Thanks mom.” He thanked before going into a coughing fit.

“Sebby, did you catch a cold? Didn’t you ride your bike home?”

“I did…” He wheezed and coughed loudly.

“Oh, Yoba. You have a cold! Go change your clothes and lie on the bed! I’ll make you some tea that Jane gave us.” Robin said before running back up the stairs.


Indeed, Sebastian was diagnosed with a serious cold. He could not help Jane in her farm work, thus Marnie had to take over until he was in tip-top shape. He was sad that he couldn’t accompany her in purchasing chickens for the first time. She had bought two, naming them Papyrus and Sans. Sebastian could only smirk weakly as he talked to Jane through Facebook Messenger.

-Sebastian Callahan: Undertale? Really?

-Haneul Park: Why not?

They’re so cute!

-Sebastian Callahan: I wish I could be there.

Stupid cold.

-Haneul Park: Aw

Get well soon!

< 3

A HEART?! Sebastian’s own heart started to skip beats. Never would he have thought that a virtual circulatory organ would stimulate his to work faster. Flustering, he could only smile before falling to sleep once again. He missed her.

It was now one week since the Luau. His cold was somewhat gone, but he couldn’t walk properly because of how dizzy his world was. His lungs kept filling up with disgusting fluid produced by pathogens, making him cough roughly. Mumbling himself awake, Sebastian slowly opened his eyes to find…

…Sam?!

“What the hell are you doing here?” Sebastian grunted.

“Bro, I’m not ready to see my true love die.” Sam joked.

“Go to hell.”

“Welcome to my hell!” The blonde boy mimicked an evil laugh. Oh boy, could the raven-haired boy feel his hell already.

“What do you want?”

“I’m here to talk.”

“You don’t say…”

“Nah, bro. I’m dead serious. We need to talk about Jane.” As soon as Sam finished, Sebastian’s attention immediately locked into him. “Heh, you’re acting like Jane’s your god or something.”

“Shut up and spit it out.”

“We saw Jane using Skype to talk with her brother. Abigail thinks that she was being consulted by him.”

“What the hell does Abigail have to do here?!”

“Listen. I don’t know why would she do that, but Abby spied her through her window. She overheard some Korean leaking from her brother.”

“That’s disgusting! Why would she do that?!”

“Let me finish. On the account, I do that to you, too…”

“WHAT?!”

“…She managed to understand some of what he was saying and mostly heard the words love, relationship… do you get the hint?” Sebastian frowned at Sam’s words. What the hell is he talking about?

“What the hell? I don’t even…”

“You don’t? Are you THAT thick-headed? Don’t those words hit your brain?” Sam exclaimed. “Come on, bro! Even Vincent would understand! SHE LIKES YOU!!” Sebastian was shocked. How does he know that even if in any chance he was right?

“...but what if Jane was talking about how she wants to avoid a relationship…?” Sebastian wheezed.

“Only an idiot would think like that! Why would she get consulted when it’s not about having a relationship?! Okay, I want to know why you’re doing heck-all!” Sam cleared his throat, and continued. “Did you get rejected?” Sebastian shook his head. “Demetrius got in your way?”

“No, luckily.” The raven-haired boy groaned.

“Alright. You must be scared then. Typical Sebastian Callahan! Always scared to make the first step! No wonder you’ve never had a relationship before!”

“Wait!” Sebastian stopped him with a raspy voice. “How did YOU confess to Penny?”

“Wanna know?” Sam asked and the raven-haired boy nodded. “Alright, sit next to the fireplace and prepare some lube, boy! I’m about to tell you the hottest confession story in planet Earth!”

“...lube?” Sebastian repeated, but it was ignored.


“A message, from Penny?” 17-year old Sam asked himself, looking at his phone. He stopped the jamming session and checked the message.

‘-Penny Anderson: Come to the spa tonight. I have something to say.’ Wow. This was making Sam’s heart pump in a rate he had never experienced before.

He had a crush on Penny ever since they continued seeing each other as best friends. He would sneak into her trailer’s room and spend their time together talking about their lives and even show her how to play League of Legends. Now that she had invited him to such a place where he would be in his trunks, he knew that something was up.

“What’s taking so long?” Sebastian asked.

“Ah, it’s nothing.” Sam replied, blushing.

“Sam, why are you blushing? Is it Penny again?” Abigail asked. “Are we about to have our first couple among us three?”

“I don’t know, Abby!” Sam interrupted. “L...let’s continue. And a 1, and a 2, and a 1, 2, 3 go!”

It was seven at night. The sun was now practically gone and darkness has engulfed Pelican Town. Sam packed his bag with a large towel,shampoo, gel and his swimming trunks. Just as everything was set, Jodi stopped the blonde boy when he opened the house door.

“Sam, where are you going?”

“Ah, it’s… it’s… well, Seb called me for help in his… homework.” What a stupid excuse, not to mention a lie.

“Okay, sure. Come back soon!” Jodi nodded as she walked back into the kitchen.

‘Wow, that worked?!’ Sam exclaimed in his mind and walked out of his house. What could Penny want to talk, especially in the bathhouse?


Sam stripped whatever he was wearing and changed to his swimming trunks. His body was red due to how much he was blushing. Penny would probably be accompanied with Leah and Maru, so he would be very embarrassed. He approached the door that would lead to the pools. Taking a deep breath, Sam opened it. The atmosphere was damp and warm unlike the cold, freezing air of the snowy outside. The water of the large pool gave steam as it evaporated and condensed back as there was nowhere for them to escape. Shivering, Sam dipped himself in the water. The warmth of the water fought off his coldness. That’s amazing. He walked around in the pool, searching for his crush to not find her. He turned around a corner to find…

...Penny.

She was alone. The place she was swimming around was also invisible from the entrance. He couldn’t help but to blush at what she was wearing: a lacy sky-blue swimming dress.

“There you are. I thought you didn’t receive my text…” Penny said, hiding her face on her shoulders. Wow, she was pretty.

“Yeah, I did.” Sam replied.

“Do you know why I called you here?”

“You have something to say, right?”

“Yes, that’s right.” Penny replied. Sam noticed that the distance between the two seemed to… close? Penny looked around their surroundings, then turned back to the blonde boy. “Looks like we’re all alone.” Sam’s heart felt like it was about to burst. What was she trying to say?

“Wh-why here?” Sam mustered the courage to speak. Suddenly, Penny started to blush! She was from the beginning, but her face was becoming tidier than before.

“I’ve been trying to find a way to tell you…” she paused.

“‘Oh god, why pause?!’ Sam screamed in her mind. His heart was about to explode by just seeing her.

“...about how I feel.”

What? Is this… a confession?

“I can’t stop thinking about you. I...mmf!” My the time Penny spilled her heart, Sam had already embraced her and pressed his lips against her. “I will never forget this night.” She mumbled through their lips. Somewhere inside Sam… there was something that fired up. Could it be… lust?

“I know a way you can make tonight even more unforgettable.” He sneered as he started touching her sensitive parts…



“Okay, stop right THERE.” Sebastian interrupted Sam, coughing with his mouth covered. He was flustered by where Sam was going with his story. “You never told me that you’re gonna tell me a smut.”

“Why? You watch those videos! Of course you'll be interested!” Sam joked.

“Sam, NO.” But the blonde boy continued anyway.


-COMMENCE 4TH BREAK!-

“...but I won’t continue.” Sam suddenly said. Sebastian gave him a funny look. What is this guy trying to say?

“Because… look for yourself.” He added, pointing at the you.

“Oh, right. The reader.” Sebastian sighed. “Thank god. Praise the sun that the official game forums doesn't allow it.”

“Well, the fanfiction.com's rated M fiction you’s gonna suffer!” Sam chuckled. “Hey reader! Are you dirty like me?” He asked you.

“Please tell me you aren’t.” Sebastian grunted at you.

“Well, if you are, the author might publish NSFW versions of this chapter and any other that we break fourth walls in! You might have to wait for him to publish those!”

“Please don’t and close down this break…” Sebastian muttered as he coughed out viscous saliva. He forced the 4th wall break close.

-END OF 4TH WALL BREAK!-


“Jesus Christ, Sam. I didn’t have to know that!” Sebastian wheezed.

“The more you know!” Sam shrugged, plastering a funny smile. The raven-haired boy sighed. He’ll never see Penny the same again. “You have plans? For Jane?”

“I do. Dance of the Moonlight Jellies.”

“The Jellies? Sounds perfect! I think that’s how Leah and Elliott confessed.” Sam agreed. “You should, too! You know, her family and all.” Right. Sebastian had to agree on that. How would Jane’s brother react when he witnessed him confessing to his sister? He didn’t want to know. “At least you have a plan. Look, I gotta go help mom. Think about my story!” With that, the blonde boy went out of his room, giving Sebastian liberty to think. For the first time, he found that guy actually helpful. Strangest of all…

… could his story be helpful, too?

 

Confession updoooottt!!!

Jane’s heart fell when she heard that Sebastian had caught a bad cold. Her mind split in two as she realized that she won’t be with Sebastian for some time. She felt something empty inside her while she tried her best to plaster a smile on her face to not upset Marnie. She was still receiving help, anyway.

She decided to buy chickens from the Ranch owner the three days after the Luau. ‘If only Seb was here with me…’ She sighed as she looked at the numerous chickens in the large coop. Shane was throwing kernels of corn at the numerous and various chickens, ranging from big, small, brown, white… They were so adorable to Jane. The only thing she found questioning her past biology studies were the unusually blue chickens. She rubbed her eyes to confirm what she was seeing was real, and indeed they were. She decided to approach Shane, who was hugging a white chicken, and tapped his shoulder.

“Buh? Oh, hey Jane.” Shane grumbled, patting the chicken’s head. “Make it fast. I haven’t got the time.” That was harsh. Jane decided to keep the question for herself until she saw Marnie glaring at him.

“Shane, watch your manners!” Marnie scolded.

“What does she want from me? I don’t talk to strangers.”

“Stranger?! She’s been here for an entire Season! Of course she’s not a stranger!”

“Whatever. Charlie, I’ll be with you later.” Shane partially apologized before laying the white chicken down. When he saw it waddle back its friends, he turned to the farmer. “Get on with it.” With that, Jane started typing.

Where did you get blue chickens?

“Blue chickens, eh? Huh, I guess Shane Lannister, the Chicken Master should tell you. Okay. Those chickens are unique in this place. Can’t find them anywhere else.”

They’re so cute!

“Yeah, for girls like you, it could be. How old are you again?” Jane was confused. Why would he want to know her age? Shrugging, she pointed one finger, then eight.

“Eighteen? Whoa, you’re ten years younger than me? Cool.” Shane replied.

“Jane, Go ahead choose a chick that you want!” Marnie said. Nodding, Jane limped around the coop while looking around. So many chickens and they were all cute! She wanted EVERY single one, but due to her not having her credit card right now, having only 2000 Galleons in her wallet and having absolutely no experience in farm animals, she decided to go for two young chicks. Jane looked at Marnie and pointed at two relatively big yellow chicks.

“Those two? I see!” Marnie beamed as she picked them up. The chicks chirped as they looked around to see what was going on. Jane couldn’t help but smile at how adorable they were when she stroked one of the chick’s head and it reacted by squinting its eyes. “Cute?” The ranch owner asked and Jane nodded. “Are you sure you want these two?” She nodded again. “Great! One chicken is 800 Galleons, so… that would be 1600!” Jane smiled. She was more than ready to sacrifice anything to take care of animals.

Jane paid for her chicks and noted down everything that Marnie instructed on how to take good care of these avian balls of feather. With everything set, she ordered Shane to accompany the farmer back to her farm with the two chicks, which Jane named Sans and Papyrus, the two skeleton brothers of Undertale. The walk back to the farm with a man ten years older than her was silent and awkward. When they arrived at the farm coop, Shane simply lowered the chicks on the hay and gave the farmer a bag of seeds.

“It’s what they eat. Take good care of them or I’ll come beat you up, okay?” Shane asked. Jane nodded and the man was gone. A long pause followed and ended when Papyrus the chick chirped, making her smile as she voluntarily collapsed on the hay next to her chicks. She remembered how she used to play with her grandfather’s chickens when she was a little child. Oh, the memories started to flood in as the chicks ran up to her and bumped their heads on her fleshy leg.

‘Oh, 할아버지 (Grandpa), if you could see me now…’ Jane thought. She pulled her phone out, took a selfie with her chicks and posted it in Facebook.


A few more days have passed and Sebastian’s health didn’t seem to improve. It was the 22nd of Summer and She really wanted to see how he was holding up, but Robin prevented her due to infection. Her plan seemed to be jeopardized. If he wouldn’t recover in time, he might not be able to come for this Dance of the Moonlight Jellies, thus she won’t have the chance to confess. She could only let fate decide what would happen to both of them. Her heart felt like it was about to explode just by thinking about him.

‘How did Minsoo handle this?’ she thought as she dropped grains of seeds on the mangers for Papyrus and Sans to eat. If her brother had been in multiple relationships, then he would have felt the same as Jane, but in an unbearable scale. She pushed the negativity out of her mind. Sebastian will recover in time. She knew it. All she needed to do was to stay diligent. When she finished all of her farm work for the day, she pulled her phone out and checked her Facebook. A lot of comments have been posted ever since she had posted her chicken selfie.

-Abigail Berneau: OMG SO CUTE

-Haley Laveri: Congrats chopstick leg

=Minsoo Park’s reply: Why are you calling my sister chopstick leg?

=Haley Laveri’s reply: Nobody asked you

=Minsoo Park’s reply: I’m her brother.

-Jiwoo Bae: ㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠㅠ So adorable!

-Hyunsoo Kim: What are their names?

=Haneul Park’s Reply: Papyrus and Sans!

=Hyunsoo Kim’s reply: ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ Undertale ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

Aside of the fight between her brother and Haley, Jane was happy about the positive feedback from her friends. She went back into her house to play some videogames and chat with Sebastian.


Today, 28th of Summer, was the day. It was the Dance of the Moonlight Jellies. Jane remembered to read the letter written by Demetrius that said that the event will take place at ten at night. She smiled and nodded. Fate had joined her side because Sebastian had finally recovered! In fact, she was with him right now, doing farm work together! They were just picking the last blueberry harvest of Summer. The air was significantly colder than during the middle. Jane was eager to show Sebastian her chicks, which grew significantly bigger than when she bought them from Marnie.

“Wow, they’re cute. I guess.” Sebastian said. Jane nodded in response as she picked up some seeds in the bag and dropped them in the manger.

They’ll produce eggs! Jane signaled.

“I’m sure they will.” The raven-haired boy replied, cradling Sans. “I still can’t believe that you named your chickens Undertale characters.” Jane giggled in response, making him blush relatively heavily. “Let’s start class.” Jane nodded, Sebastian put Sans down and walked into the farmhouse.


“…So that’s how you say ‘I think I can take care of your dog’?” Sebastian asked as he moved his hands around to repeat the sentence on the book into sign language. Jane nodded a she smiled with rosy cheeks. “Heh, looks like I got that correct.” He smiled and gave Jane a high-five. The raven-haired boy’s determination to learn what Jane uses to communicate made the farmer’s heart melt. Her heart started to turn towards this boy ever since the Flower Festival. It first started as just coincidental heart skips, but as time passed and they spent more time together, the reality proved her that coincidence wasn’t the word Jane was looking for. She had finally realized that she had fallen in love with him after her first marksmanship training session. For the first time, she felt lucky that she was mute; she would mess up her friendship with him if she poured out her heart through words at the wrong time.

Jane snapped back to reality when Sebastian spoke. “You know about today’s Jellies, right?” She nodded. “Well… it’s the day when Sam and Penny stick like glue, FYI.” He sighed, looking up to the ceiling.

‘I wonder if he’s lonely… just like me.’ Jane thought. The festival might be the best time to confess her feelings to this boy. She would watch the Jellies from a secluded place and confess…

No, maybe not. There could be an alternative.

Jane wanted to make the confession as romantic and moody as possible. She and Abigail had been watching a shelf worth of K-Dramas lately…

K-Dramas…? THAT’S IT!

Her very outfit reminded her of most of the confession scenes there that had no relations with cities. ‘I could reenact one of them!’ Jane thought to herself. She remembered the big tree in Cindersap forest. It could be the perfect place to confess!

Just as she was flooded with thoughts, Sebastian tapped on her shoulder.

“Jane, are you alright?” He asked. Blushing, she nodded. “Alright, then.” He replied, looking back at his sign language book. After a few more minutes, he closed the book. “Well, I guess that does it for today’s learning.” Indeed, the clock struck 2: 30, the anticipated end of today’s lecture. There were seven hours left until the event. Jane had to act quickly if she was to confess to Sebastian. Taking her phone, she started typing and showed the screen to her crush.

Can you wait until I take a bathroom break?

“I can wait for that.” Sebastian replied. “If you need help, call me.” Jane nodded as she managed to get up from her seat and limp her way into her room and eventually the bathroom.

‘Stupid prosthetics!’ Jane swore in her mind and shut the door. After locking the door, she immediately unlocked her phone and opened Facebook Messenger. Then, she searched for her Abigail’s chat room and started typing.

-Haneul Park: Abby?

Abby?

Please respond…

A minute seemed to have passed until Jane received a response. Her heart fell.

-Abigail Berneau: What’s up?

-Haneul Park: I’m pretty sure you know what’s happening to me, right?

-Abigail Berneau: Is it your crush on Seb?

Oh boy, this would be the first time Jane would open her feelings to Abigail. Taking a deep breath, the farmer continued.

-Haneul Park: Yes

-Abigaill Berneau: What about it? I knew it for the long time

She knew?! That was awkward. Jane knew that should she answer Abigail’s question, there will be a big chance that she will embarrass herself. However, during the days when she wasn’t with Sebastian, she realized that she couldn’t initiate her plan alone. Thus, taking a deep breath and knowing that there will be no turning back, Jane started typing.

-Haneul Park: I want to confess to him today.

A long pause followed. ‘What have I done?’ Jane thought to herself as she crashed down to the floor, covering her face with her hands.

*Ding!

Trembling, she looked at what Abigail sent her.

-Abigail Berneau: OMG

OMG

I’M SQUEALING RIGHT NOW!

I KNEW THIS DAY WOULD COME!

-Haneul Park: you did?

-Abigail Berneau: Of course I did!

-Haneul Park: I feel so embarrassed

-Abigail Berneau: don’t be!

You two are so cute together!

How can I help?

Should I sing for you?

-Haneul Park: NO

-Abigail Berneau: LOL

Then?

-Haneul Park: can you buy me a bouquet?

-Abigail Berneau: AWWW

Of course!

When should I give you?

-Haneul Park: i’ll come over and get it.

Jane paused. After thinking, she continued.

-Haneul Park: 3:00

-Abigail Berneau: already bought it form my dad!

-Haneul Park: bought? Dad?

Just as Jane finished typing, a knock on the restroom door startled her.

“Jane? Are you okay in there?” Sebastian’s voice called. Realizing that she had been hiding in the restroom for ten minutes, Jane picked up her pace and typed away.

-Haneul Park: I’m on my way. See you at the Store

-Abigail Berneau: Good luck, Jane!


Jane and Sebastian walked out of the gate of her farm and walked eastward towards Pelican Town. The farm girl was wearing a large purse for the bouquet that Abigail promised to give her. Although this seemed to have sparked curiosity in Sebastian’s mind, he shrugged it off as he pulled out a pack of chewing gum and popped a wad of gum into his mouth. Jane remembered how she cried during that night when she found out that this boy coughed out blood due to his smoking habit. She was surprised and heart warmed that he decided to quit.

Did he do it just for her, though? If so, she would fall deeper into love with him.

When the duo reached Pierre’s General Store, Sebastian received a text message. “Oh dear, looks like it’s Sam again.” He grunted once reading it.

You should be with him. Jane signed.

“Are you sure? I’ve just came back to you after the cold!”

I was invited by Abby here. Jane typed on her phone, since she couldn’t say her name in sign language.

“Aw, I thought you liked to spend time with me or something… anyway, never mind. Have fun, Jane!” Sebastian waved as he walked to Sam’s House. As the raven-haired boy was out of sight, Jane faced the wall and clenched her chest. How did he know that she enjoyed their hangouts? Her heart felt like bursting. She took a deep breath and opened the glass doors. Immediately, Abigail rushed out of her room and threw herself to the farmer.

“Jane, you have to come inside! You don’t want Seb to overhear me helping you!” Abigail beamed, winking. Jane looked away, hiding her blush as she was dragged into the purple-haired girl’s room.


Jane practically suffered by how much talking Abigail did. She talked about what she knew about Sebastian and how Sam managed to gather information about him while the farmer played Overwatch in her computer.

“I don’t know how you don’t know that Sebastian likes you back!” Abigail exclaimed. What?! Jane hid her character in a safe spot and turned around, giving her a funny look. “You didn’t know? Sam confronted Seb last week and you know what he said? He likes you back! He wanted to confess during the Luau but he messed up!” Jane was flabbergasted. “So the hangout under the umbrella was supposed to be the day! She sighed about the unfortunate event. “...and I don’t understand how in Yoba’s name you two aren’t together!” Hearing this, Jane’s cheeks started heating up. She wondered why, too. “Aww, you’re so cute when you turn into a tomato! Anyway, I don’t want to interrupt you in your kill streak, but have you ever been in a relationship?” Jane shook her head. During her life as a mute girl, everybody hated her except for her friends. “What?! How did you even live your school days, girl?!” Abigail asked in disbelief. Jane turned back to Overwatch and switched her hero from Sombra to Ana. She continued playing until she won the match. With that out of the way, she picked up her phone and started typing.

I’m scared.

“Why?”

I don’t want to ruin my friendship with him. Seeing this, Abigail gave a sigh of disappointment.

“Jane, did you even listen to what I’ve just said? He likes you too! There’s NO WAY he’ll reject you! It’ll be like a dream for you two!” Just as Abigail finished talking, the clock struck five.

Five hours left until the Dance. At the same time, Jane received a text message from Sebastian.

-Sebastian Callahan: hey

-Haneul Park: hiiii

What’s up?

-Sebastian Callahan: i’m fine

If Sam stops bothering me

-Haneul Park: lol

-Sebastian Callahan: Should I go pick you up?

Jane dipped herself in thought. To initiate her plan properly, she will need Sebastian to meet her at the Cindersap tree. She continued typing.

-Haneul Park: It’s ok

Can you meet me that the forest?

-Sebastian Callahan: ?

-Haneul Park: the big tree?

I want to talk about something.

-Sebastian Callahan: tree…?

OH

THAT tree

Ok sure

Be there soon


"It's Seb, is it?" Abigail asked when Jane locked her phone after a conversation with Sebastian. Jane nodded, but hid her ruddy face with her hands. "Aww, Jane! I told you, Sam confirmed that he might feel the same! Best of all, tonight's the Dance of the Moonlight Jellies! It's the perfect time to confess!"
But what if I fail? Jane typed.
"Oh, Jane! We talked about this just thirty minutes ago! Where do you plan to confess?" Trembling by Abigail's question, Jane typed her answer.
The big tree

"Tree? What do you mean...?" Just as Jane was about to type her answer, the purple-haired girl clapped her hands in realization. "Oh my god! That tree in the forest?!" Jane nodded. Soon enough, Abigail threw herself to Jane and squealed in delight. "YOU'RE SO ROMANTIC!!" She screamed. Jane buried her face in Abigail's shoulder while blushing even heavier. "You know, Seb's going to be the luckiest boy in the world with you around!" Abigail said once releasing Jane. She handed the mute farmer the bouquet. "Take it! You asked for it! Go get 'em, girl!" With that, Abigail playfully pushed the farmer out of the General Store. With a sigh, Jane leaned on the notifications' board and thought. Today will be the day when the friendship she had forged between Sebastian and her will be changed. Should her confession be accepted, she will form a new and stronger bond with him and perhaps last together eternally. It was the path that she yearned for ever since the beginning of her puberty, but failed to accomplish. In other words, they will enter in an unbreakable relationship. Should it fail, their friendship will be shattered.
'No, Jane. I can do this. You can do this. He likes me, too.' Jane took a deep breath and walked west towards Cindersap forest. The time was coming near.

Jane waited and waited under the big tree on the forest for her crush to appear. It was already five in the afternoon and the sun was almost closing in at the mountains. She thought of all the scenarios that might unfold in just a few minutes. She could be embracing Sebastian under the tree with joy engulfing her... Or left crying under the tree with suicidal thoughts with him walking away from her. Oh, how she wanted to push the negative thoughts away. Her heart raced as time passed. In fact, it raced so fast that Jane felt like it was a ticking bomb.
Over Marnie's Ranch, Jane noticed a familiar figure walking towards the tree she was standing under.

Sebastian.


Jane's heart skipped a beat. When his focus turned to her, he jogged to the tree. He stopped a meter away from her while gasping for breath. "I'm here. Sorry for the wait." He said.
It's okay. Jane signed.
"Kind of a strange place to wanting to have a conversation, to be honest." Jane simply shrugged. Sebastian wasn't an outside person, anyway. She didn't care deep in her heart, however.
Thanks for coming here for me.
"You're welcome." Sebastian replied, slightly blushing. She didn't know why, but his smile made Jane's heart melt. After an awkward pause together, Sebastian started the conversation. He first talked about some new video game articles that he had found on the Internet that intrigued him. Of course, it also intrigued Jane, not just because she loved videogames much as him, but also because she wanted to be with him. After that, the conversation shifted to some funny stories that Jane and Sebastian told each other. They shared laughter which eased Jane's tension, but it returned whenever she saw his face. Finally, when silence returned, Sebastian started something that she was waiting for.
"Jane, I... I don't know how I should say this... But... I want to thank you." Sebastian said, his face starting to heat up even more. "I used to be ignored by everybody in this town. The mayor, Sam, Abigail... Even my family... They never understood how I wanted to be different. But then... There's you. You understood that I wanted to stand out from the normal and simply accepted who I am. This..." He sniffed. "This is the first time I've received such treatment other than my real dad." Jane stared at him while slightly opening her mouth. She never knew that he was facing such torture. The fact that he basically stated that she was his savior... It made her heart race even faster for him. "What did you call me here for, though?" Jane felt heavy machine guns in her stomach. This was it. She will now be reaching the Point of No Return. She was so nervous, but with Sebastian staring right at her face, it didn't help at all. Mustering what was left of her courage, Jane began giving signs to him. First pointing at herself, second tapping at her head, third pointed back at her then finally, the cherry of the cake, the rock-and-roll symbol.

I think I love you.


"Hmm? You think you... What? You think you like heavy metal?" Sebastian asked. Jane felt agitated by how he didn't understand. In the other hand, however, she was relieved that she received more time. "Hang on. Let me search what it means." Sebastian added as he reached for his book from his backpack. Uh-oh. Jane quickly reached for the book but she was too short for the raven-haired boy. She futilely attempted to snatch the book away as Sebastian flipped through the pages until he stopped.
"Hey, I think I found it! Apparently, it's not a rock-and-roll symbol! It means... Oh... Oh..." He dropped the book.
'It's over.' Jane thought as tears rolled from her eyes. Was this the end of their friendship? Her world crashed down around her as Sebastian looked away from her while hiding his blush. He would walk away soon. She closed her eyes, oozing more tears to await her imminent demise. However, she felt something touch her.
"Jane?" She heard Sebastian say. She sealed her eyes tighter as she revealed the bouquet hidden from her dress and thrust it to his direction. "Please, look at me." Jane shook her head. "Come on. Please. I want to say something." She felt heat surround her once again as she slowly opened her eyes to find the raven-haired boy right on chest.
"You know, ever since the Flower Festival, I felt something grow inside of me. It... It... I don't know how to explain it, but... It was warm. It fueled my determination to do anything. I felt like I wanted to do something more. But... Whenever you were around, it felt... Stronger. It was like I could take on the world.
"As time passed, I realized that all of this was because of you, Jane. I started to feel more lonely whenever I left your farm. Now... Now... Jesus, this is hard, you know? Damn... You're all I think of and..." Sebastian gently placed his one hand on Jane's waist and the other hand stroked her tear-stained cheek. "...You're all I think about. I can't concentrate in my work and even in my everyday life. God, you drive me up the wall." With every word expelled from his mouth, Jane felt fear. Anxiety. Joy. Her heart gave a jolt as if it restarted. "In other words..." He slowly leaned towards her face and placed his lips gently into hers, but released soon. "...I didn't know you felt the same." With the small kiss that he gave her, Jane couldn't help but turn into a tomato. All of her fear was now gone. It was a dream, was it? She hoped not. She saw tears roll down Sebastian's cheeks, too as leaves started falling from the tree above them.
"Jane, I used to want to get out of Pelican Town. But with you here, I don't want to. I want to stay. With you around, the Valley feels like home. I want you to be my sky, Haneul. I..." That was enough. All of this was enough to Jane as she threw herself to him and buried her soaked face on his shoulder blade. She felt a smile form on Sebastian's face, making her the happiest girl in Stardew Valley. Jane temporarily retracted her head and planted the deepest yet the most passionate kiss full onto Sebastian's lips as the leaves fell just for them like the nature's confetti. She didn't want to let go.

Jane held her now lover tightly as she started sobbing. Tears of hot joy dribbled down her cheeks, soaking Sebastian’s shirt. Her dreams are now reality. The one who she truly wanted and cared about was now holding her in his arms. “Jane, you’re crying.” Sebastian said. Jane simply nodded as she tried her best to prevent more tears from escaping her eyes. Just as the raven-haired boy held her chin up to wipe her tears, Jane’s crying face slowly replaced itself with a bright smile. She gave a quick peck on his lips. She had been so stupid for doubting their relationship, which induced a giggle. Her giggles were contagious, as Sebastian started laughing along.

“I love you, Jane. How do I say this… 사랑...해. Yeah.” He said. Jane nodded and buried her face on his chest.

An eternity seemed to have passed when Jane and Sebastian released themselves. The sun was now nowhere to be found and the sky was golden.

I don’t know how I’ll forget this day. Jane signed.

“We won’t.”Sebastian replied, looking at the sky. “It’s getting dark. Should we go inside?” Jane nodded.

Let’s eat at my house!

“Sounds good.” The raven-haired boy replied as he held Jane’s hand tightly and walked to Agria Farm.


The new couple’s contact session didn’t seem to end there. It was now 90 PM and thirty minutes until the Dance of the Moonlight Jellies. Jane was watching Sebastian play StarCraft on her computer on the bed. She didn’t know how to get her eyes and heart off from him. When the clock struck the mentioned time, Sebastian helped Jane on his motorcycle and sped to the beach.

The air of the beach was fresh and salty. The constellations illuminated the skies and the sounds of crashing waves sang the Song of the Seas. The only artificial lights were small dim lanterns that fought the darkness of the night. The townspeople were gathering around on the dock either talking to each other, walking around or staring at the dark abyss eager to see the jellyfish. All the attention shifted to the Sebastian-Jane couple when they arrived with one of their hands wrapped around each other.

“Could they be… together?” Jodi asked.

“Wow, looks like Pelican Town will have another couple.” Marnie replied.

“Wonder what Jane’s family will think when they come tomorrow.” Caroline mumbled as the couple set foot on the woody docks. The two walked to where Sam, Abigail and Penny were standing. Penny noticed Jane first greeted them, but her attention immediately turned to their wrapped hands.

“Are you two...together?” Penny gasped. Abigail and Sam turned around to see what was going on. When Jane nodded, Abigail started to hop around and squeal.

“OH MY GOD! CONGRATULATIONS!! I KNEW YOU TWO COULD DO IT!!” The purple-haired girl shouted.

“Abby, you'll break the wood!” Sam warned. “Anyway, I knew you could do it, bro!”

“Go to hell.” Sebastian flipped him off. “Well, looks like we now have only one single in our gang to make fun of.” He added, staring at Abigail.

“What?!” Abigail exclaimed. Janed burst into laughter as she rubbed her cheek on her now-boyfriend’s arm.

“Mom told me that your family’s coming tomorrow.” Sam said to the farmer. She nodded in response.

“How should we introduce ourselves?” Penny added.

“Is your brother strong?” Abigail butted in.

“Abby, why do you care so much about her brother?” The purple-haired turned away by Sebastian’s question. Jane looked at Penny and began moving her hands around. Penny stared, processed, and nodded at every move. She turned to her friends.

“She said that her parents will stay here for a month and help her on the farm, be with the community. Her brother will try to be friends with us and… uh… train his cooking skills.”

“Cooking? Ooh! I’ll definitely taste his food… oh wait. Damnit…” Abigail facepalmed once she realized what she had said.

“Yup, she’s into him.” Sam whispered into Sebastian’s ear. He nodded in response. Just then, Vincent ran up to the gang, jolly as ever.

“Miss Penny! Mayor Lewis released the boat! The Jellies are here!” He chirped. Jane looked at the water to find the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. One by one, shining jellyfish swam closer to the dock, dancing the Dance of their Kind as they welcomed the townspeople with warming radiance. Among some of the jellyfish were accompanied by tiny juvenile Jellies that glimmered by their parents’ light. Sebastian helped Jane sit on the dock’s edge and sat next to her, arm wrapped around her shoulder.

This was what Jane remembered as a child, when she skipped around in joy, tugging on her grandfather's pants and stared at the Jellies with Abigail and Sam. Now, here she is again, in the arms of the boy that she loved, taking selfies and recording the jellyfish’s activity. It was so pretty, yet tiring to watch such beauty. Jane lowered her head on Sebastian’s shoulders until she saw something. It was a jelly, but it looked different. It was flat and radiated green as if it was a bouncy glob of emerald.

“Wow, that’s the rare one.” Sebastian commented. Immediately, Jane took a picture of it. “You’re one lucky girl, Jane.” She giggled. “...and I’m lucky to have you.” Sebastian added, making Jane heartwarmingly whine and bury her face on his shoulder blades.


It was midnight when the Jellies swam south towards the Gem Sea to venture the great unknown of the Mediterranean Sea. The townspeople left the beach one by one, and Jane was no exception. After bidding their friends goodbye, the couple sped back to Agria Farm with warmth wrapped around the two.

“So, they’re coming tomorrow, huh? Your parents, I mean.” Sebastian asked.

I can’t wait! Jane signed.

“Well, I hope they’ll understand that we’re together.” Sebastian added. “I mean, you told me that Minsoo’s a bit overprotective, so… I’m scared.” He chuckled.

He’ll like you as a friend. You’ll be amazed by his food. And with Jane’s signs, she wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned in for a tender kiss. She didn’t want to let go, but knowing that they’ll meet again tomorrow, she released her lips and let go.

“See you tomorrow, Jane. Wanna go on a date?” Jane vigorously nodded by Sebastian’s suggestion. “Oh, and happy nineteenth birthday.” He added as he pecked her lips and drove off up the mountain. Giving a sigh of contentment and clenching her chest, Jane limped back to her house, washed up and prepared for bed. After having a hearty chat with her now boyfriend, she made one final adjustment in her Facebook before falling into sweet undisturbed slumber.

Haneul Park and Sebastian Callahan are now in a relationship.

 

So, fun fact, the Fanfiction.net of The Signal has more chapters than in the forums. Pretty strange to think about it.

‘Wow, never have I felt this happy…’ Sebastian thought as he parked his motorcycle in the Carpenter’s Shop. He was holding the bouquet that Jane gave her when she confessed. He didn’t know how he would let go of it. It's roses were so bright and beautiful, just like the farmer herself.

Just before he opened the door, Sebastian hid the bouquet on his back with one hand. With his other, he opened the door and entered. As soon as this happened, Robin came out from her room in her pajamas.

“Sebby?” She asked groggily. “You’re exceptionally happy.” Indeed, the raven-haired boy was smiling uncontrollably. He tried to hide it and show his usual gloomy attitude, but judging by today’s events, he just couldn’t. Could there be times better than this? He snapped back to reality when he realized that his mother was right in front of him. “What’s that behind you?”

“Ah, it’s nothing.” Sebastian hastily replied, backing away, but Robin was not the one to simply nod it off. He knew how tenacious she was.

“Sebby, don’t lie to me. Is it one of those adult magazines?” The carpenter frowned as she maneuvered her hand around his back. Sebastian did his best to defend the bouquet from his mother’s sight with all costs through ducking and weaving while backing nearer to his basement steps, but just before he was about to close the door of his room, he made one mistake and Robin snatched it away. Blushing, he saw Robin stare at the bundle of roses, flabbergasted.

“...d-did Jane give you this?” Sebastian nodded, sighing in defeat.

“She did it first.” He simply replied, not daring to look at Robin directly.

“Oh Yoba, OH Yoba! My son… he’s finally grown up!” Robin whimpered, tightly hugging her son to the point he choked. “I’m so happy that you’re not alone anymore, Sebby!”

“Whatever, mom. Look, I need to go help Jane tomorrow morning. Jesus, I even have to work in my programming…”

“Okay, Sebby! I’ll put these in a pot and put it on the table for you!” Robin beamed before walking back to her room. Sebastian sighed after closing the door behind him. On his desk, he saw a bundle of flowers that he had bought yesterday. The petals were blue in color and it's beauty perhaps matched her now girlfriend’s roses.

‘Right. I was supposed to give these to her today.’ He remembered when he held the bouquet. ‘I guess this’ll be her birthday present.’ He thought as he sat on the computer chair and started working on his code.

When it was one in the morning, Sebastian called it for the day and dived into his bed. Just as he was about to fall asleep, his Facebook Messenger rang.

-Haneul Park: Sebby~

-Sebastian Callahan: hey

What’s up?

-Haneul Park: I miss you >_<

-Sebastian Callahan: already?

Better hold on, Jane.

-Haneul Park: nuuuuuuu ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

-Sebastian Callahan: lol

That’s the lol of Korea?

-Haneul Park: yeah

The conversation lasted until they said goodbye and Sebastian fell into deep sleep.


The raven-haired boy was surprisingly refreshed when he woke up that day. It was now the 1st of Fall, 2019. The air was noticeably cooler than yesterday. Never in his life Sebastian woke up happily. After washing up, he stared at the mirror, adjusting his clothes. Her parents were coming today, so he should look at least organized. He unfortunately had a hard time understanding the concept of looking neat as this was the first time he had done so. With that out of the way, Sebastian grabbed the bouquet of blue flowers and exited the room.

The time was seven in the morning when Robin was still fixing breakfast of the usual bacon and eggs. Robin turned around when she felt her son’s presence… happy? This was new. “Sebby? You look… happy.” She said.

“I thought you knew, mom.” Sebastian replied, sighing contently. “Remember yesterday?” A short pause followed before something clicked in the carpenter’s mind.

“Right! You’re a grown up now!”

“I was before, mom. How do you consider someone an adult? Your standards are… unpredictable.”

“Oh, you’re a grown up to me! Sit down! Maru and Demetrius are still sleeping, so we’ll be first!” Robin concluded before focusing back on the frying pan of greasy bacon.

Shortly after the short talk between mother and son, Robin placed two plates of hot bacon and eggs on the table. She sat down opposite of Sebastian and started eating.

“So, happy to see Jane?” She started.

“She’s now my girlfriend, after all.” Sebastian replied.

“Sebby, aww.”

“Mom…” the raven-haired boy grunted.

“What? I thought you said you liked her!”

“I do, but it’s still embarrassing!”

“You shouldn’t! your father was a confident man who was proud to have me as a wife! I really hope that you can be like your father!” Sebastian knew that Robin still had an unrepairable void in her heart due to his father’s disappearance down in the mines, but reminded himself to not ask why she married Demetrius if she missed his father so much.

“Right. I’ve never been in a relationship before, so I guess it’s normal to be anxious…”

“Sebby, that’s a horrible idea! I told you to be confident! That’s what makes the young women fall to men!”

“Whatever. I just want to be different. Nobody understood me except Jane. Maybe that's how I fell in love with her.” Sebastian said as he took a bite of an egg. After swallowing, he continued. “Anyway, you know about her family coming here, right?”

“Oh, of course I do! Me and the other mothers are already preparing for their arrival! We can’t wait to make a new friend! Are you and your friends waiting for them, too?”

“Well, to be honest, it’s just a family reunion. I don’t think I should interfere with that.” Robin nodded at Sebastian’s words. “...although Abigail seems to look out for Jane’s brother…”

“That’s adorable!” Robin chirped. “Wanna help her?”

“Nah, I’ll have fun making fun of her.” Sebastian sneered as he put his empty plate in the sink. “Anyway, today’s Jane’s birthday, but I don’t know what to do.”

“Hmm? I remember the mayor talking about that. He’ll tell us everything.” The carpenter replied. Nodding, Sebastian left the Shop.


Sebastian’s knock on the Agria Farm house was almost immediately responded with Jane opening the door and throwing herself or him. “Had a good night?” Jane nodded by his question. The raven-haired boy’s surprises didn’t end there, as he pulled out the bouquet of blue flowers from his hoodie and held it to his girlfriend.

“Happy birthday, Jane.” In an instant, Jane leaned in for a deep kiss, obviously smiling. She pressed on his chest, pressing the bouquet in the process. “Jane, the bouquet…” the raven-haired boy muffled. The farmer simply shrugged as she released her lips from him.

You're the best birthday present ever! She signed, holding the now-slightly crumpled bundle of blue flowers on her chest, blushing.

“Sorry, but i'm taken.” Sebastian joked. “...by you!” Jane nudged his chest, giggling. “Ready to start the day?” She nodded. She let him inside the house, placed the flowers in a vase and grabbed her tools.

Sebastian took care of the dead Summer crops with the scythe. He now has no problem handling the tool thanks to his experience with Jane. With that out of their way, he turned to the farmer.

“Should we put some fences? I mean, it’ll look more organized.” Jane shrugged to his suggestion. She looked like she had interest on it. Sebastian decided to inform his mother about it.

The couple spent the rest of their work in the coop occupying their hands to each other while Papyrus and Sans ran around. They have grown slightly larger than before and Sans was starting to grow brown hair. Sebastian couldn’t help but smile at how cute Jane was when she grinned at the avian balls of feather. Their eyes locked together and their faces turned into a tomato. Jane shyly looked away just before her phone gave a message ring.

“Who is it?” Sebastian asked as she checked the message. He gave a peek to find a lot of Korean.

-Minsoo Park: 도착했다 (we’re here)

-Haneul Park: 짝짝짝짝 (clap clap clap)

-공항? (Airport?)

-Minsoo Park: ㅇㅇ (yup)

-네 페북봤다 (I saw your F

-ㅊㅎㅊㅎ (congrats!)

-Haneul Park: 언제와? (When are you coming?)

-엄마 아빠는? (What about mom and dad?)

Minsoo park: 좋아 죽고 계셔 (they’re so happy)

-너 남친 생겼다고 (that you got a bf)

Sebastian noticed Jane blush, but seeing that this chat may be personal, he decided to not ask and just look at the phone screen.

-Haneul Park: 어떻게 올거야? (How are you going to come here?)

-Minsoo Park: 버스 탈거야 (Gonna ride the bus)

-찾아봤는데 (I’ve been looking for it…)

-왜 한대밖에 없냐? (...but why is there only one?)

-한국에는 적어도 5 개는 되는데 (there’s at least 5 in Korea per village)

-글고 네 마을 인터넷에도 찾기 힘들어! (And it was so hard to find your town in the internet!)

-Haneul park: 난 한방에 찾았는데? (I found it in one try?)

-ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

-Minsoo park: ㅇㅋ 탔다 (ok, I’m in the bus)

-생일 축하해 (Happy Birthday!)

Jane smiled when she locked her phone. At the same time, the raven-haired boy gathered the confidence to speak.

“Who was that?” He asked.

My brother

“Mhm. What did he say?”

He’s now in the country and taking the bus.

“Oh, wow. It’s gonna take them hours to get here, especially when you’re at the capital.” Sebastian replied. He helped Jane up to her feet, petted Papyrus and Sans one more time before walking out of the coop.


The couple entered Pierre’s General Store and was greeted by the Berneau father and daughter. “Well well, I isn’t the farmer and her boyfriend!” Pierre greeted. Sebastian simply shrugged and Jane did her usual bow.

“We’re here for new seeds.” The raven-haired boy said.

“Well, good thing that i’ve just stocked the shop with Fall seeds! Look at what you would like, Jane!” Jane nodded as she limped around and looked at the shelves filled with yellow, purple, green and orange colored seed packets. Abigail followed around the farmer while Sebastian was called by her father.

“Yes, sir?” He asked.

“I’ve heard from my wife and daughter that Jane’s family is coming to The Valley today.” Pierre started, clearing his throat afterwards. “How do you think they will be like? Will they just keep going to Jojamart? Are they good at English?”

“Uh… i don’t know, sir.” Sebastian replied. In his mind, however, he questioned why would the shopkeeper ask him questions that has absolutely no relation with him. “I’m sure her brother will be good at our language.”

“That’s good. Listen, I remember Abigail saying that today’s Jane’s birthday.” Sebastian nodded in response. “She said that everyone should celebrate it.”

“Excuse me, Mr. Berneau?”

“I don’t know what my daughter was talking about, Sebastian.” Pierre added, laughing. “She’s so unpredictable, you know. You should talk to her if you want to learn more… as long she’s not being so rebellious.”

“Uh… yes sir.” Sebastian hesitantly nodded when Jane came with a basket full of seeds.

After paying for what they bought, Sebastian and Jane walked out of Pelican Town and towards Agria Farm. However, they weren’t the only ones going there; Abigail was following them from behind. Sebastian didn’t mind at first, but as he noticed that she was starting to skip, he and his girlfriend started to question her. Why is she so eager to follow them?

“Uh… Abby, why are you following us?” He asked, looking at her.

“I just want to see how you tie date!” Abigail replied, but the couple shook their head, knowing that it wasn’t her real reason.

“We’re going to work.”

“But still! I’m coming along!”

I think she’s coming to see my brother. Jane signed, knowing that the purple-haired girl doesn’t understand sign language. Sebastian grinned and nodded.

“...or it could be…Minsoo?”

“N-no! It’s not!” Abigail refuted, flushing with red.

“Yup, she is coming for him. How long did it take you to come here from Arcadia, Jane?” Sebastian asked his girlfriend. She replied with six fingers. “...and your brother arrived at the airport two hours ago!” Jane nodded.

“It’s not about her brother!!” Abigail exclaimed. Sebastian couldn’t help but to chuckle. Is this how it feels to make fun of someone who was in love? He found it funny. Apparently, seeing how Jane was laughing along, she seemed to feel the same.


Combined with the fertile soil expansion, seed plantation with watering, four hours seemed to flow away like a river. The couple also planted the Asian Pear teee saplings next to the coop. Wiping the sweat from his forehead, Sebastian saw that it was already two in the afternoon and Abigail was observing the couple working and occasionally looking at the eastern exit to see if anyone was coming.

Jane let him and Abigail in to have some refreshments. As the farmer prepared some blueberry popsicles she made with her brother’s instructions, Abigail bombarded the raven-haired boy with questions regarding how he will carry on the relationship with Jane.

Just as the gang was finishing off their popsicles, the door gave out three knocks. Could it be Jane’s family? Jane and Abigail bolted up from their chairs and checked the windows. The farmer gave a gasp.

“It’s them!” Abigail screamed. This was it. Sebastian readied his mind for the encounter as his girlfriend opened the door. Immediately, three unfamiliar Asian people along with Robin and Lewis entered the house. The farmer immediately threw herself to the oldest looking man other than Lewis. The man had glasses, slightly wrinkled skin and pitch black hair. This was Jane’s father. Right next to him was a woman presumably in her forties having short black hair. It was his girlfriend’s mother. The tallest young man had hair dyed slightly brown and wore a white formal shirt. This was Minsoo, Jane’s brother. Sebastian stared at the family reunion without saying any word with Abigail until Jane’s mother looked at him. She asked her daughter something in their language and Jane nodded happily. The father suddenly approached the raven-haired boy, making him shake with fear. What would he say? How will he react to his daughter’s boyfriend? What…

“You’re Haneul’s boyfriend, right?” Her father’s voice cut Sebastian’s train of thought.

“Y-yes, sir!” Sebastian replied, remembering that this man could speak good English, although there was a mix of Korean accent.

“Why are you scared? I'm glad that you are her boyfriend!” The man said, noticing the raven-haired boy’s anxiety. “I have never seen my daughter so happy.” He added, holding his hand for a shake. Sebastian accepted it, and was immediately approached by Minsoo.

“Hello, Sebastian.” The tall man said.

“You’re Minsoo, right?” Sebastian asked.

“I thought you knew?”

“Cool.”

“That’s a strange answer.” Minsoo replied, folding his arms. “Anyway, thanks for helping my sister to come this far. I should treat you or something, yeah?” He added, parting the raven-haired boy’s back before walking back to his parents. Jane was now limping around the house, possibly introducing the family to it. Meanwhile, Abigail was attempting to talk to Minsoo, but she seemed to have a hard time quelling the awkwardness between the two and for some reason, clenching her chest.

“S-so… you-you like… uh… K-Pop, r-right? I-I mean, you’re… Korean and all… d-do you li-like… listen to EXO? Wow, this is hard.” Abigail stuttered and blushed furiously. She was dangerously close to Jane’s brother. Backing off, Minsoo opened his mouth.

“Hey, are you okay? Why are you… so close to me? Besides, just because I’m Korean doesn’t mean that I listen to boy bands.” He said. “Okay, I’ll be honest, I do listen to some of them. For the girls back home, they all listen to BTS.”

“BTS? Wow, they’re so good!” Abigail happily replied, but immediately returned to her awkward state.

“Okay, I think I’m doing something weird to you. I need to go to Jane. See you soon.” The young man finally said before walking away, leaving the purple-haired girl staring at him.

“What was that all about?” Sebastian quietly asked as he approached her.

“He-he’s so…”

“Hot?”

“N-no!” Abigail nudged his shoulder, blushing even more furiously.

A few minutes passed before when Jane’s family exited from their room given by the farmer without their luggages.

We’re going to show them the town. She signed Sebastian.

“Sure. Let’s go. Let’s hope Haley won’t mess things up, yeah?” He replied, holding her hand and walking out of the house. Everybody else followed her out, probably talking about how he and Jane look together.


Accompanied by Lewis and Robin. Sebastian, Jane and her family and Abigail entered Pelican Town with anticipation visible from the Asian faces. One by one, the townspeople exited from their houses and greeted the farmer’s family with optimism and warm welcomes.

“I can see it in your eyes! You’ll like this town!” Emily said.

“Are you tired? You’re always welcome to our home!” Jodi added.

“Thank you, people. But we’ve just came and we’re looking around the town.” Jane’s Father replied.

“No worries! Come again if you’re free!” Demetrius said.

“Happy birthday, Jane!” Emily shouted as the group walked away.

The town seemed friendly to the newcomers. They were showered with warmth and kindness by nearly everyone they passed by.

Nearly.

Of course, Haley Laveri was the exception. She was cold and stingy.

“Oh, hello.” The blonde girl coldly greeted, then turned to Jane with a smug look. “You brought your family because you’re so scared, chopstick leg?” Sighing, Jane looked away.

“Haley, what the hell? They're visiting.” Sebastian hissed.

“I didn’t ask you, emo. I don't care if you’re her boyfriend. They look stupid just like h-”

“Excuse me?!” Minsoo stepped forward. Sebastian saw the man and silently gasped. He was tall. “Can you say that again?” He asked, looking down at the blonde girl. His shadow engulfed Haley as she looked away. “No, say that to my face.” Minsoo’s tone became threatening. “Say. That. To. My. Face.”

“I-I-...” Haley stuttered. She looked like as she was about to cry. Sebastian had never seen her like this before. Could she be scared?

“What did you say about my family? Oh wait, you’re the girl who called my sister Chopstick Leg, huh? What do you have to say about that?” Haley started to sob at Minsoo’s word. Sebastian noticed that Jane’s brother was tall. He was lean, but he could definitely see that he wasn’t weak. He was handsome, even to him. Just as Haley started to cry, Alex walked to her and in front of Minsoo, fists ready to blow.

“Hey! What do you think you’re doing to my girlf… whoa.” Alex stopped and his fists were gone. Sebastian was also shocked.

Minsoo dwarfed Alex.

“...and you’re her boyfriend?”

“Y-yes.” Alex stuttered. He stuttered. This was the first time the raven-haired boy saw this to the local jock. In the bottom of his mind, he found it funny.

“How old are you?” Minsoo asked with a calm but strong tone.

“N-nineteen.”

“Twenty-two. What’s your name?”

“A-Alex, sir. Alex Müllner.” Alex cowered.

“No need for formality, Alex.”

“I-I didn’t insult your sister, I promise!” The athlete whimpered. That was new.

“I didn’t ask for that, but it better not be a lie. If it is, I’ll make sure you won’t see another day…”

“Minsoo!” A voice called. It was Jane’s mother. The young man walked to his mother while keeping an eye on the Alex-Haley couple.

“Wow, he’s awesome!” Abigail whispered to Sebastian’s ears. Jane was with him, having her shoulder wrapped tightly.

“Good thing Jane now has a shield… for now.” Sebastian nodded.

I hope he won’t go too far. Jane signed. Sebastian repeated her words to Abigail.

“What do you mean?” She asked, but the farmer simply shook her head. By this time, Minsoo walked back to Alex.

“Alright, Alex. I’ll leave you two be for now. BUT mark my words: if any of you insult my sister again…” he paused. “...you’ll regret breathing. Other than that, I’m sure we can be good friends.” He said, holding his hand out for a shake. “The name is Minsoo Park.” Hesitating, Alex accepted the shake and Jane’s family walked away. Sebastian, Jane and Abigail followed.


The tour ended after the group exited the Carpenter’s Shop. Sebastian specially gave Jane a ride down back to the farm with his motorcycle while the others walked down. Sam accompanied the group, spooking Minsoo out with his craziness.

Before the Park family entered the farmhouse, Abigail and Sam stopped Minsoo and make him be with the teenager trio.

“What? I need to go unpack!” Jane’s brother said.

“I don’t know what’s going on, to be honest.” Sebastian added.

“Listen, guys. We all know that today’s Jane’s birthday, right?” Abigail asked.

“Well, duh. I gave her a bouquet for that.”

“Aww.”

“I don’t mind.”

“Okay, that was adorable, Sebastian.” Minsoo said. “And yes, we prepared her gift, but why?”

“We’re going to throw her a party at the saloon. Everybody’s pitching in with gifts.” Sam said.

“Is this supposed to be a surprise party?” Sebastian asked.

“Yeah. I bought her chocolate cake. I’m going to let her drink…”

“Whoa, DRINK?!” Minsoo cut Abigail off.

“Y-yeah. You know, sh-she’s nineteen and all, hehe…” Abigail blushed.

“I don’t know about that, guys. She almost threw herself out of the window after one glass of soju…”

“Oh, come on! It’s just beer! That won’t hurt, right?” Sam pleaded.

“Why do you want her to be drunk?” Sebastian asked.

“Why not? It’ll be funny!”

“Seb, what’s his name?” Minsoo pointed at the blonde boy.

“Sam.” The raven-haired boy replied. Suddenly, Minsoo grabbed Sam’s shirt and violently dragged him to him.

“Listen here, Sam. If you think getting someone drunk is funny, here’s the thing.” Minsoo snarled, tone definitely angry. “Wanna know how she lost her arm? She was raped by her drunk schoolmates when she was thirteen.” By his words, the teenager trio’s happy mood instantly vanished. Sebastian’s heart especially sank. He never knew Jane suffered THAT much. He regretted hearing that. “That’s why I was preventing my sister from drinking. She was forced at that time.”

“Th-th… I’m sorry.” Sam stuttered.

“Good. I’ll let her drink today as it’s her birthday. But don’t push her, understood?”

“O-okay.” Abigail and Sam replied. Minsoo nodded and released Sam’s shirt.

“So, what should we do?” Sebastian asked.

“We want you to bring Jane to the saloon when everything’s ready. Minsoo, tell this to your parents but keep it from Jane, okay?” Abigail instructed. Everybody nodded. Minsoo went back into the house while the teenager trio stayed at the porch. “Wow, that was scary.” Sam said, readjusting his shirt.

“...and awesome…” Abigail slapped her face, realizing what she had said.

“She’s really into him.” Sebastian whispered to Sam.


Until the sun set, Sebastian took Jane around Pelican town, mostly walking in blissful silence and talking in sign language when they sat down. They cuddled and sometimes kissed. It was probably the perfect first date for both of them. Sebastian loved silence while Jane loved the outside date and watching the sunset.

Sebastian’s phone gave a message ring, making the mesmerizing session over.

-Abigail Berneau: we're ready

-bring her in

Indeed, he was ready. “Jane, wanna go get dinner in the saloon?”

What about my family? Jane asked.

“I… uh… didn’t they say that they’ll just eat at the saloon, too?” Jane gave a hum of thought and nodded. “Alright, let’s go. Wanna eat pizza?” She shrugged as she limped besides Sebastian towards the Saloon. ‘Okay, here goes nothing.’ Sebastian thought when he and Jane reached the saloon door. Taking a deep breath, he opened the door.

“SURPRISE!!!”

The almost immediate reaction startled Sebastian. Jane, in the other hand, nearly jumped and fell to the ground if it weren't for her boyfriend. The saloon was crowded with the inhabitants of Pelican Town except Alex and Haley. Even Jane’s family was there wearing party hats. Minsoo was standing right next to Gus as if he was talking to him before the couple came in. Abigail and Sam ran up to Jane and grabbed Jane’s shoulder.

“Come in, Jane! Time to celebrate your nineteenth birthday!” Sam beamed as the two escorted the farmer to the counter, where a big chocolate cake stood ready with candles burning with plea to be extinguished. When Jane approached the cake, everyone including Sebastian started to sing along to Sam’s guitar. When the music of the Birthdays came to a close, Jane collapsed in tears as she threw herself to her boyfriend. In return, the raven-haired boy held her shoulder tightly as she sobbed on his hoodie.

“Jane, it’s okay. You’re supposed to be happy!” Sebastian said. Jane nodded, looked up, and suddenly jumped up for a deep kiss. Everybody in the saloon cooed at the sight…

Of course, except for Vincent and Jas, who stuck their tongues out and their eyes covered by their guardians’ hands.

Thank you her eyes said, and Sebastian could clearly see that.

“You should thank my friends.” Sebastian replied. Jane turned to Abigail and Sam and gave a warming smile.

“You ready to start the night?” Abigail asked. Jane nodded in response.


The party went smoothly as the townspeople found their own ways of leisure. The housewives gathered around Jane’s mother while bombarding her with questions and having a hearty conversation. Demetrius and Pierre hung around with the farmer's father while laughing along by his jokes. Minsoo first had a conversation with Gus regarding culinary experience and food ingredients and eventually entered the leisure room where Sebastian and Sam were playing pool while Jane was annihilating Abigail in the Xbox. When the Minsoo entered the room, Sebastian pocketed the eight-ball, winning the game.

“Sam, have you heard of practicing?” Sebastian gloated.

“Do you always win him, or is he just that bad?” Minsoo asked.

“He just sucks.” The two boys laughed as Sam grunted.

“You know what? I think I can win YOU, Minsoo!” Sam exclaimed, holding out his cue stick.

“Are you sure?” Minsoo folded his arms, giving a grin. His eyes were on fire, making the blonde boy shiver for a second, but refocus and nod. “Alright, then.” He accepted the challenge. Sebastian organized the balls on the table and observed Sam’s flawed ball scatter.

“So, Sebastian, what do you think of Jane?” Minsoo asked.

“Jane? She can’t be explained, to be honest.” Sebastian replied with honesty.

“Hmm, interesting answer.” Minsoo said as he shot his ball. Nobody pocketed a ball so far. Was he planning something? Who knows. “You guys are definitely different from the guys at Korea. I’m not complaining about it, though. As a guy who spent one fourth of his academic life in a culinary school in France, I understand that people can be different.” Sebastian nodded as he watched him pocket two striped balls with one hit. A skilled move! The school explained how Minsoo’s English sounded slightly French. “If you get to her soft side, I presume that you did, Haneul is the most soft-hearted girl in the world.”

“Yeah, she is.” The raven-haired boy replied, glancing at his girlfriend, who waved at him lovingly. He returned with a smile and focused back to her brother. At the same time, Sam accidentally pocketed the cue ball.

“Rookie mistake, I see.” Minsoo smirked as he freely adjusted the cue ball. He took a shot, and another striped ball went in. “I hope you’ll take good care of her, Sebastian. She basically poured out her heart to you.”

“So did I. I mean, she’s the only reason why I’m still in Stardew Valley.”

“Cute. I think I'm going to have a good time here… as long as those two idiots don’t intervene. I really don’t want to show my sister my dark side again, you know.”

Ten minutes later, the pool match was over. By the time Minsoo pocketed all his balls including the 8-ball, Sam still had four more balls.

“I… I just can’t.” Sam grunted. “The Internet was right. There is always an Asian that is better than you in everything.”

“Damn right.” Minsoo laughed just as Sebastian saw Abigail entered with a tray of five beer mugs.

Wait, FIVE?!

Sebastian finally remembered that Abigail swore to make Jane drink at her birthday. Minsoo did that he wouldn’t mind, but the problem was that the mugs were HUGE.

“Abigail, don’t you think they’re a bit too big?” Minsoo asked, looking concerned. Sebastian wanted to agree, seeing Jane’s worried face. Not even he drinks this much.

“H-huh? Really? D-do you think it’s t-too much?” Abigail stuttered while blushing. Sam seemed to find it funny and chuckled.

“I think I’m doing something wrong here. Whenever this girls sees me, that happens!” Minsoo complained to her friends. Jane giggled for a while. Sebastian took his time to see which mug contained the least and handed it to his girlfriend.

“Don’t push yourself, okay? Sam won’t pressure you. I promise.” Sebastian earned, looking at Minsoo. He gave a peck on Jane’s lips before taking a seat beside her.

“Uh… Jesus, I don’t know how to say this…” Minsoo hesitated, looking at his father. He looked back, giving him a thumbs-up. “Ugh, fine. Here’s a toast to Haneul’s nineteenth birthday… and her and Sebastian’s first date.” He finally said, clinking his mug with everybody else’s before drinking the alcoholic beverage. As Sebastian drank his beer, he saw Jane frown by the taste of her beverage. He could see her drinking very slowly, judging by the bubbles formed by her mouth in the liquid.

“You don’t have to drink all, Jane.” Sebastian assured. Nodding, Jane took another small sip.

“Aw, come on, Jane! Drink it up! You’ll…” Sam stopped when he saw Minsoo’s fiery glare and clenched fists.

An eternity seemed to have lasted when the gang simultaneously place their mugs on the table. Sam, Abigail and Minsoo’s mugs were empty while Sebastian’s mug was a quarter full. Jane in the other hand ha she'd mug half empty. Despite so, her face was redder than any of her friends and her brother. She was acting like she was dizzy while giving hiccups, telling Sebastian that she was weak on alcohol. Just as the farmer grabbed the mug, he stopped her.

“No, Jane. I told you that you don’t have to finish it.”

“Come on, Seb! Let her finish!” Sam pestered, his words slurred. The raven-haired boy heated Minsoo sigh before grabbing the blonde boy’s shoulder tightly, making him yelp in pain.

“You forgot what I said hours ago?” Minsoo growled.

“S-sorry” Sam apologized. “Geez, what a waste.”

“Are you okay, Jane?” Sebastian asked, but Jane collapsed onto the floor, slurring out inaudible noises.

“I told you guys that she’s weak to alcohol.” Minsoo said.

“I told her to not push herself.” Sebastian sighed. Just then, Jane’s parents entered the leisure room.

“민수야, 얘 왜이래? (Minsoo, what’s wrong with her?)” mother asked worriedly.

“술 마셨어요 (she drank.)” Minsoo replied.

“It’s really late…” his father said, looking at his watch. “She’ll have to open her presents tomorrow. Sebastian, help us take her to the farm.”

“Yes, Mr. Park.” Sebastian complied as he hoisted his wasted girlfriend on his back. “See you guys tomorrow.” He said to Sam and Abigail before walking out of the saloon.


It was midnight when the Park family and Sebastian arrived at Agria Farm. Jane’s father thanked the raven-haired boy before entering the house.

“Hey, thanks for keeping my sister safe. I think I can count on you from now on.” Minsoo said, placing his hand on Sebastian’s shoulder.

“Huh? Yeah. I tried to keep her like that. Should I go inside?”

“Sure.” Minsoo said as he entered the house. Just before Sebastian followed him in, Jane tapped him on his shoulder.

“Yeah?” Jane suddenly wrapped her arms around his neck, swung from his back to his face and planted a deep kiss on his lips. Sebastian kissed back, but the force that his girlfriend gave was unlike her. Not that he complained, though. When they released their lips, Jane’s cheeks gave a shade of pink as she pouted drunkenly. Sighing, Sebastian entered the house.

 

CHAPTER 27! I'm so sorry for the delay! I've been busy with personal stuff like studies and university applications. Please forgive me?

With the beeping of the alarm clock, Jane groggily smashed the clock and slowly woke up. It was the second of Fall. The air was slowly getting colder. The farmer could know this by the freezing floor that she stepped on. Oh, how she wanted fluffy slippers.

She rubbed her eyes to find that she was still in her yesterday clothes. ‘How much did I drink?’ Jane thought as she put her prosthetic leg back in her missing leg and rose from the bed.

“You've slept like a log!” Iseul said.

‘My friends told me to drink! What am I supposed to do?’ Jane refuted.

“You could have asked help from your brother!”

‘I still had to! I haven’t drank in years and yesterday was my birthday!’ Jane gave a sigh. ‘How did I come back to my room?’

“Sebastian picked you up. He couldn’t answer my questions because your family was nearby.” The farmer nodded by the Junimo’s words.

‘Don’t you think it’ll be strange to find us talking to thin air? I mean, that’s what the others would think!’

“It’s okay. You only speak with your mind and I’ll reply. It’s simple.” Iseul replied. “Now, I think your mother would be calling you for breakfast. You should go. I’ll stay here. Remember to bring me fruit!” Nodding, Jane gave a kiss on he Junimo’s forehead before walking to the bathroom.


She brushed her teeth, washed her face and raked her hair. It was seven o’clock in the morning. For being extremely drunk according to her memories, Jane had woken up relatively early. Her head throbbed by the alcohol she drank last night. She opened her room door to find her parents sitting in the table. Minsoo was preparing something on the counters. Accompanying her parents was…

...Sebastian?!

Jane tried to go back to her room, but it was too late. Her father noticed the creeking of her room door and notified the rest of the people.

“Haneul! Good morning!” He said in his mother tongue.

“Oh, hey Haneul.” Minsoo said, cutting something with a knife. Was he… cooking breakfast? Jane didn’t tell him what was in her refrigerator! Not that she complained as her brother is a restaurant chef with six years of training. Sebastian immediately rose from his chair and embraced her.

“Good morning, Jane.” Sebastian mumbled groggily. Jane smiled and buried her face on his chest. The question was: why is he here so early?

“Haneul, breakfast is ready!” Jane’s mother chirped.

“She said breakfast!” Minsoo translated, lowering plates and bowls of food on the table. Sebastian aided Jane onto the table.


“So, how did you two get together?” Father asked the couple.

“Well, uh…” Sebastian hesitated. Jane giggled as she took a spoonful of rice and took it into her mouth. She missed Korean food that wasn’t instant. She saw the faces of her parents eager for her boyfriend’s answer. Sebastian hesitated as he fumbled with his spoon.

“You don’t have to answer, you know.” Minsoo added.

“Nah, it’s okay. I can answer.” The raven-haired boy replied. Jane placed her spoon down and leaned closer to him. “Hmm… it was two days ago. Jane told me to meet her at a tree in the forest south of here. We talked and… she confessed to me first through sign language. I’ll be honest, I didn't know that this meant ‘I love you’.” Sebastian made a rock-and-roll symbol. “Anyway, I looked it up and was surprised that she felt the same. So I made my confession and she gave me the bouquet… and bam, relationship.”

“Wow, that’s really lucky for you two.” Minsoo complimented. Jane giggled and gave her boyfriend a peck on his cheek. “I mean, all the girls that I dated before have… high expectations. Seb, you’re basically unwanted in Korea.”

“I guessed so.” Sebastian replied, taking a bite of his food.

How was your first night? Jane asked her parents.

“It’s much quieter than Seoul!” Her mother replied in her mother tongue.

“The people here are really kind, surprisingly!” Father added. “That girl was very unmannered, though.”

“She won’t be rude to us for now.” Minsoo replied. “Haneul, I have one complaint.” With that, Jane’s smile partially disappeared. A complaint? This wasn’t good. “Why did you name your chickens Undertale characters?” Never mind. Her tension was gone and the farmer giggled.

“What did they say?” Sebastian whispered. Jane used her phone to translate everything that her family had said. The raven-haired boy nodded after seeing the last line of text.

I have one question. Jane asked.

“Shoot.”

How are you here so early?

“Oh, uh…” Sebastian hesitated as he turned to Minsoo. “Is it okay?”

“We don’t mind.” Minsoo replied calmly.

“alright, it’s going to be a long story.” Jane’s boyfriend said before clearing his throat.


Sebastian entered the house with Jane on his back. He was still dizzy by the effects of the beer that he drank with his friends.

“You’re pretty weak on alcohol, huh” Minsoo asked, seeing that the raven-haired boy clenched his forehead.

“I know. I sometimes don’t understand Sam and Abby.” Sebastian replied. “Don’t mind if I put her in her bed?”

“Haneul? Go ahead.” With that, Sebastian walked to Jane’s room with the weight of his girlfriend on his back. When he reached her bed, he gently placed the wasted farmer down on the soft blankets. He saw Iseul bouncing to its master to check on her.

“What happened to her?” The Junimo asked.

“She drank too much.” Sebastian replied. “I mean, half a mug.”

“I hope she’s not hurt.”

“I tried my best to let it not happen.”

“Thank you, Sebastian. You two should return to the Community Center. My friends may wish to see you again.”

“What for?” Just as Sebastian was about to receive his answer, Minsoo called from the living room.

“Is everything okay there?”

“I’m fine!” Sebastian shouted back. “Listen, I think Jane’s brother’s starting to spook out by how i’m talking to thin air… according to him.” He said to Iseul.

“I’ll look after her from here. Thank you.” Iseul replied before jumping over Jane’s body and laying beside her chest.

“Good night, you two.” Sebastian said before giving a kiss on both Jane and her Junimo’s forehead. Just before he was about to walk away, something grabbed his arm. It was Jane. “Uh, Minsoo?” The raven-haired boy called out. “Jane’s not letting go!”

“Lucky bastard!” Minsoo jokingly called out. Sebastian grunted. He didn’t think sleeping with her would be a good idea for both him and Jane’s parents.

“I need to go home!” Sebastian shouted back.

“You’re drunk! Are you sure you want to drive?” Minsoo was right. He was still dizzy thanks to the beer. Even if he stayed, where will he sleep? “You can use my room!” A good offer, but it was Jane’s brother’s first day here. No way he will let him let it last uncomfortably.

“Nah, I’ll sleep on the couch. I do that sometimes.” The raven-haired boy replied, trying to pry off his girlfriend’s hand. She whined in protest, but he silenced her with a kiss on her lips. He could then finally walk out of Jane’s room.

When Sebastian walked to the living room, Minsoo was already preparing a blanket and a pillow. How was the tall guy going to sleep without them? As if he read his mind, Minsoo grinned as he opened his mouth.

“Haneul gave my bed two pillows and three blankets. Nothing to worry about.” He said.

“Praise the sun. I was worried that you’re gonna sleep without a pillow.” Sebastian replied.

“I don’t mind, anyway. You get used to sleeping on the hard floor when you spent 2 years in mandatory military service.”

“Why mandatory?”

“Fault North Korea, not me!” Minsoo said. The raven-haired boy chuckled.

“Sorry, Minsoo. Look, I need to work with your sister tomorrow morning.”

“...and I need to cook breakfast.”

“Breakfast?”

“You don’t know? I work in a restaurant! Not a master chef, though.”

“Cool. Good night.” Sebastian said before climbing into the couch.

“Just don’t stay passed out when my parents get out.” Minsoo said and shut his room door behind him.


“...That’s how I ended up here.” Sebastian concluded and piled his empty bowl and plate together. “Really delicious.” He complimented.

My brother’s the best cook! Jane replied.

“Damn right I am.” Minsoo joked. “You two ready to work?” The couple nodded before standing up.

“They’re so cute together, don’t you think, Wonjae?” Jane heard her mother whisper to her father as Sebastian handed her the watering can.


Just like yesterday, work in the farm was smooth and warm. Jane was slightly distracted at looking at her boyfriend. She loved him so much despite being together for only three days. Sebastian seemed to be in the same train as he accidentally stepped on some juvenile corn plants while their eyes locked. They could refocus thanks to Minsoo’s interference when he noticed the couple spacing out.

When they were done with watering the crops, Jane lead her brother into the coop where Sans and Papyrus the chickens were awaiting their master. Iseul was there playing with the now almost adult chicks, but Jane and Sebastian tried their best to act like it didn’t exist to not spook Minsoo out. Jane taught him how to feed the chickens by throwing seeds at the ground as if she was sowing crops. Minsoo seemed to follow it nicely but the chickens only followed the farmer and her boyfriend around, giving the brother a hard time.


With all of her chores done, Jane’s family lead her back into her house where she saw a pile of wrapped presents next to the TV. There were twelve in total. Jane couldn’t help but to revert back to when she was a child; so happy to see a mound of presents! Her parents were smiling too and Sebastian was looking at her lovingly. Although his bouquet was on the table and was not given in the Saloon, the farmer limped to the raven-haired boy and gave a light kiss.

“Jane, your parents!” Sebastian whispered, eyeing her parents concerned. Jane simply shrugged as she leaned in for another kiss. She released herself from him to find her brother looking away in disgust. She limped back to the present mountain while Sebastian called Minsoo for a quiet talk. Little did they know that while Jane was busy ripping wrapping paper off of boxes and items, she was overhearing Sebastian and Minsoo talking from the kitchen. Meanwhile, Jane’s parents left the house to see the townspeople.

“Minsoo, you’re a chef, right?” Sebastian whispered.

“Technically, no. I’m an assistant and still student of a chef.” Minsoo relied. “Why?”

“I need your help.”

“Uh-huh?”

“I wanna help you cook lunch.”

“Help?” Minsoo chuckled. “What can you cook?”

“Well, mom’s Spaghetti, sandwich, hash browns, fried eggs… that’s it.”

“Wow, that’s not a good sign. Especially the spaghetti.”

“How so?”

“I’ll have to be Gordon Ramsey to explain.” Minsoo joked. “I don’t want to insult your mother, though.”

“Nah, it’s okay. I won’t tell mom.” Sebastian assured.

“It’s too sweet. It kinda tasted like ketchup in some ways and the way she combines the noodles with the sauce was… strange.”

“That’s how most Americans do it… I think.”

“...but this is Europe!”

“Mom’s from America, so yeah.” Sebastian sighed.

“As a chef’s assistant of a French restaurant, I find it outrageous.”

“Spaghetti is Italian.”

“Still. I had a roommate who was Italian, so yeah.” Minsoo said, then looked around. “That’s what we’ll do today. Spaghetti… from the ground up!”

“Sounds easy.” Sebastian said. Meanwhile, Jane couldn’t help but smile at the presents he was opening and the conversation between her boyfriend and brother. The presents were good and all, but boyfriend learning to cook from her? Marvelous.

Just as Jane opened the last present, Minsoo called in Korean.

“Haneul, do. you have basil anywhere?” The farmer shook her head in response. “Well, so much for decoration.” Minsoo grunted in English, rummaging through the refrigerator.”at least you have a lot of tomatoes and onions. Oh, garlic? Perfect! Wait… is that… CAJUN SEASONING?! They sell this stuff here?!” He exclaimed, looking at Jane. She simply nodded as she limped towards him.

“Why are you so excited about it?” Sebastian asked.

“It’s really hard to find it here and… yeah.” Minsoo said. “Sadly, my sister seems to be too lazy to buy spaghetti.” Jane whined and nudged his shoulder.

“So… we’re scrapping it?”

“Nah, Seb. If there’s no spaghetti, MAKE IT!” By Minsoo’s words, Sebastian looked at him, eyes wide open.

“How?” Grinning, Minsoo placed a bag of flour and eggs on the counter.

“Like this.” With that, Minsoo placed a few cups of flour and cracked some eggs on it. When he was kneading the dough, he turned to the raven-haired boy and his sister. “Aren't you going to do it? I thought you wanted to learn?”

“Right.” Sebastian said before doing what Jane’s brother just did. Jane shrugged and decided to do the same.

After some kneading, Minsoo flattened his dough and cut it into thin stripes. “That’s it! Easy spaghetti!” He said, handing the rolling pin to Sebastian. Jane refused it when her boyfriend handed it to her. She simply waited for the raven- haired boy to flatten his dough. While she observed with a smile, Minsoo complained over and over about Sebastian's progress.

“No, the dough isn’t flat enough yet! Keep on… okay… okay, that’s enoug- there’s a rip on the dough!”

“Does that matter?” Sebastian asked. He was slightly frustrated, but his eyes showed determination.

“You have to don't again. Knead it into a ball and retry.” Minsoo instructed.

With Sebastian finally done with his noodles, Minsoo heated the water until it boiled and placed a saucepan with olive oil slathered in it. Jane was still working with her dough when the door knocked. Her parents were outside, probably with the adults in Pelican Town. She didn’t bother wiping her hands when she limped to the door and opened it.

“Hi Jane!” Abigail chirped as she entered the house. Strange. Sam wasn’t with her. “Sam’s in Jojamart working.” She said as if she read the farmer’s mind. “Why is your hand dirty?” Jane looked at the kitchen where the two boys were cooking.

“Who is it?” Minsoo asked as he turned to look at Abigail. Immediately, the purple-haired girl’s face turned scarlet. “Abigail? Hello.” He simply said, turning back to what he was cooking.

“What were you doing?” The purple-haired girl asked. Jane reached for her pocket…

Uh-oh, her phone wasn’t there!

She pointed a finger up in the air and limped to where her presents were. She wiped her hands on her shirt, covering it with spaghetti dough and picked up her phone. She limped back to Abigail and started typing.

Cooking spaghetti

“Oh, that’s adorable!” Abigail cooed when she faced the kitchen again. “Wait, why is Seb with your brother?”

He’s learning from my brother

“AWW!”

“Shut up, Abby.” Sebastian scoffed. “I’m trying to write this down!”

“But it’s so cute!” Abigail said. Jane’s face gave a shade of pink as she let her friend in. She immediately sat on the couch while the farmer limped back to the counter.

“You should be with your friend.” Minsoo said. “It’s okay. We’ll take care of things.” He said as Jane was about to refuse. Nodding, she limped to where Abigail was and sat right next to her after removing her prosthetic leg.

“You got so many presents!” Abigail commented.

This is the first time I’ve received this much. Jane typed.

“But still! I only get like, 5 at best!” Jane simply shrugged in response. “It’s not fair!” The farmer simply stuck her tongue out. “Aw, you're cute when you do that! Hey, can we play Rocket League?” With Abigail's question, Jane immediately turned her Xbox on and started a split-screen match while Minsoo taught her boyfriend how to cook real Italian spaghetti.


Fifteen minutes have passed and Minsoo called the girls to the table. Jane and Abigail were greeted with steaming plates of fully homemade spaghetti. The sauce was made of the produce of Agria Farm and was mixed with the pasta during the cooking process unlike what she sees in the American side of the internet.

“This spaghetti is different from what Seb’s mom makes.” Abigail commented.

“Of course, it’s a different variant. I hope you’re into culinary history.” Minsoo replied. Jane shrugged, Sebastian looked away and eyed his girlfriend while Abigail’s eyes locked with Minsoo’s, determined to listen to everything he was about to say. “Spaghetti and meatballs was made by Italian immigrants of America during the… uh… I think it was the twenties. The one you were eating was what I learnt from my Italian roommate.”

“Roommate? What do you mean? You learnt this from a military comrade?” Sebastian asked.

“Didn’t my sister tell you? I graduated from a French culinary school!” Abigail and Sebastian simply eyed Jane for a second and shook their heads.

I’m sorry. Jane signed.

“Hey, it’s fine, Haneul. Okay, so I enrolled in that boarding school when I was like fourteen. I was set in a dormitory with four other guys from different countries. The first was Guillermo, which was the Italian guy that I was talking about. The second was a Japanese guy called Yuto, pretty short guy. Then there was Santiago, who came all the way from Argentina. The last guy was Pierre…”

“My dad?!” Abigail cut him.

“You dad’s name is Pierre? That’s funny. Anyway, Pierre was a French. He was my best friend. End of story.” Minsoo concluded. By now, the four people were digging into the spaghetti. Jane was smiling the whole time with sauce covering her lips. She missed her brother’s cooking, and here she was, eating it.

“This is way better than mom’s spaghetti.” Sebastian complimented. “Don’t tell her.”

“Oh, you’re so screwed!” Abigail sneered.

“Abby, NO.” Jane giggled at the banter.

“Hey, no fighting here! Especially when it’s my sister’s house!” Minsoo intervened, taking a fork wrapped with spaghetti into his mouth. “Hmm, it would have been much better if Haneul had basil or at least oregano.” Jane nodded in response. Indeed, despite being extremely delicious, she felt that something was missing in the spaghetti. Perhaps her brother, a cooking expert, was right.

I’ll buy it next time. Jane signed.

“Nah, it’s okay. But sure, I’ll appreciate that.” MInsoo replied with a smile.

The plates were empty while the conversation between Jane, Sebastian, Minsoo and Abigail was continuing. Jane placed the plates in the sink and cleaned it while her boyfriend helped her.

“I don’t normally do dishes.” Sebastian whispered. Jane shrugged as she overheard Abigail talking with Minsoo.

“S-so, abo-about the K-pop thing…” Abigail stuttered.

“I don’t understand. Why do you want to keep talking about K-Pop? It’s not that you’re going to dance to a TWICE song or anything.” Minsoo replied.

“S-sorry…”

“Are you that into K-Pop?” Abigail nodded. “I’m afraid of what I’ll find in your room, woman.”

“Y-you sound like French, to be h-honest.”

“That’s pretty obvious. I’ve been in France for six years! Of course I do sound like I have a stuffed nose!”

“C-can you speak French?”

“Bien sûr, je peux! Pouvez-vous parler français? (Of course I can! Can you speak French?)” When Minsoo asked in French, Sebastian’s head snapped to him in amazement.

“Je peux, mais seulement un peu. (I can, but only a little bit.)” Abigail replied. While Minsoo simply nodded, Jane and her boyfriend’s eyes turned to the purple-haired girl in astonishment. She didn’t know that Abigail could speak French. Judging by Sebastian’s face, she thought that he was in the same situation.

“Wow, a handsome Korean who can cook? Wow, just wow.” Jane saw Abigail whisper to herself. Then, the she turned to the farmer and asked. “Wanna come over?” Jane smiled and nodded.

“Alright, Jane. I need to go back home. Mom’s gonna be angry.” Sebastian replied.

“Use my friend’s recipe as a bribe!” Minsoo replied. “In fact, I need to go, too. I want to talk with Mr. Guicollini.” He was referring to Gus. With that, all four youngsters departed from Agria Farm.