Harvest Moon: A Glance into the Past

[stitch]

I've always enjoyed writing so I hope that anyone who takes the time to read this enjoys it. I plan on having a new chapter up every 2 - 4 days. Opinions are greatly welcomed.


Harvest Moon: A Glance into the Past

Prologue

Spring 15 Year 3

It was early afternoon and although everything around me seemed bright and cheerful I was not. Tears streamed down my cheeks and my blonde hair that was usually pulled back into a ponytail dangled freely past my shoulders. Even my reddish brown eyes had lost their joy. But you’re probably wondering why I’m so sad. Why I’m not smiling on this fine sunny spring day. Let me start from the beginning that was so long ago.

Chapter 1 When it all began

Spring 17 Year 1

It was a cheery spring day and my Uncle Doug (a nice man really with his brown hair and mustache, he really looked like a laid back businessman if you ask me) was helping me get to the Spring Horse races at Flower Bud Village. I never missed them. I always entered my most treasured horse, Spirit, into the races and rarely did we ever lose a race. I knew without anyone telling me that my reddish colored eyes were sparkling with excitement. I loved the atmosphere at these races, the sound of the horse’s hooves against the ground and the constant cheering. I always enjoyed this.

The closer we got the more excited I became. My blonde hair was pulled back into a high ponytail, it was the way I always had my hair. I couldn’t keep my fingers still for they longed for my horse’s reins and I felt myself become anxious. Finally we were there. I quickly got my horse ready and I smiled despite my slight nervousness. My horse was always ready for anything. I saw my Uncle Doug walk over to Theodore, the Mayor of the town (I personally thought that he was always a little too happy in his little red suit. Nothing ever really seemed to damper Theodore’s spirit), to register my horse into the race.

Once my horse was settled and comfortable in a stall I walked over to my Uncle and I was surprised to see a person that I had never before seen. I walked over to him. He looked like someone that you’d find on a farm or ranch and I wonder if he would be new competition for me. “Hi,” I smiled at him and he turned to face me. He had bright blue eyes and brown hair. He wore a blue baseball cap backwards and a white shirt underneath his overalls. He also had a red bandana around his neck. “I’m Gwen,” I finished when I had his attention. “You came to run a farm right? I’ve heard a bit about it.”

He nodded and shook my hand. “I’m Levi, I just moved here on the Exciting Ranch Plan. I thought it might be interesting here.” He shrugged.

“Perhaps I’ll see you around then. My Uncle Doug,” I motioned over to my Uncle so he knew who I was talking about. “Wants to start an Inn in this town and I might help him.” I answered.

He smiled at me. “That’s good. Theodore was telling me that he wanted this village to expand some.”

I smiled softly. I suddenly wanted to get back to my horse. I knew the first race was going to start soon. “Do you race?” I asked.

He frowned and shook his head. “I don’t have a horse. I’ve only been here for a few weeks.”

“You should get one and practice up for next year. Maybe you could give me a little bit of a challenge.” I suggested, grinning.
He glanced at me funny as if wondering if I was lying to him or something. “You’re racing?” He asked.

I nodded. “I do every year. If you’ll excuse me I should go see my horse.” I admitted. “It was nice meeting you.” I answered as I walked away.

“Likewise, I’ll watch your race.” Levi told me as I walked away.
I wanted to shake my head at that comment but I didn’t have time. I barely had time to lead my horse down to the race track and mount her before Theodore started going over the instructions. I didn’t need to hear them though. I’d heard them a thousand times before. I reached into my pocket and pulled out my riding gloves. I slipped them on and picked up the reins. I was ready to race. I recognized the end of Theodore’s speech and my heart began to pound in my chest. I felt more nervous then usual but why? Oh I remember, Levi told me he was going to watch. But why should that bother me? People watched me race all the time. Maybe it was because he told me that he was going to watch.

I was drawn from my thoughts as the gates flew open. I was a second slow to come from the gates but I had no worries. I kicked my horse on the sides and we were off like a shot. It seemed like an eternity as the other contestants fell behind me. I was in a good rhythm with my horse. Yes we were going to win. I could feel it. The finish line came in sight. Almost there now I told myself. I could hear the other horses coming up behind us. I knew that the crowd was silent from the suspense of it all, but as usual I was the first to cross the finish line.

The crowd immediately burst out in cheers. Their shouts rang through air and hung there like morning fog. I led my horse from the excitement knowing that it made her uneasy. To my surprise I saw Levi waiting by my horses stall. “Levi,” I smiled as I dismounted and led my horse into the stall.

“That was brilliant!” Levi announced. “You’re an excellent rider.”

I fought to keep from blushing. No one had ever told me that before. “Thank-you,” was all I could manage to say.

“Do you know when your Uncle was going to start up his Inn?” He asked.

The question caught me by surprise as I took off my riding gloves. “As soon as he gets the money, he’s already halfway there. He’s thinking by the end of the month that he’ll have enough.” I answered wondering why an Inn would interest him.

“And you said that you’d be coming here with your Uncle?” He asked.

Oh, I knew why he was asking now. I nearly laughed at not figuring it out sooner. I nodded. “Yes, I’ll be coming here too.” I assured him.

“Gwen? Gwen are you here?” I heard my Uncle Doug call.
“Yes, Uncle I’m here with Levi.” I replied. A moment later and my Uncle was glancing from me to Levi. “He came to congratulate me.” I stated.

My Uncle nodded. “We’ve met.” Was his answer and I suddenly wished that my Uncle hadn’t worn that checkered sweater that he had insisted on wearing. It looked so goofy. “Gwen are you ready to go? It’s about time that we got back into town.”

I nodded. “Of course, Uncle Doug, I’ll load my horse and then I’m ready to go.” I replied before he left.

Levi looked at me again. I wish he would stop. He looked at me differently than other people did. Maybe it was the way I was dressed in blue, black, and white. Perhaps he didn’t like my blue vest and short wrap around skirt. Or he thought that my black pants and arm bands looked funny. Or was it my white strapless shirt that showed off a bit of my waist. Either way I was feeling nervous again. “You’re leaving so soon?” He asked.

I nodded. What was I supposed to say? I didn’t know. He knew I was leaving. He heard my Uncle Doug say so. “Ah, yeah I am. Perhaps I’ll see you again.” I replied.

Levi smiled and nodded. “I hope so,” He answered and left me alone with my horse.

I ignored what he had said and led my horse to the trailer. “Can we come back and see Woody sometime?” I asked my Uncle. Woody was my grandfather and I enjoyed seeing him even though he was so stubborn and never listened to a thing I said if it involved him doing something. But I liked my grandfather and he liked my cooking, but then so did everyone else who tried it. I had a talent with cooking, and that was part of the reason as to why Uncle Doug wanted me to work at his Inn.

“Of course Gwen, if not I know I’ll be hearing from him and getting asked why he never gets to his Granddaughter. And distance is no excuse. You know your Grandfather.” Doug replied.
I held in a giggle. Yes I knew my Grandfather. Nothing was a good excuse. You either did as he asked or his constant asking drove you crazy. After I made sure that my horse was in the trailer I watched as the sights flew past me on my way back to town with my Uncle.

“He seemed to like you.” My Uncle stated.

“Who?” I asked not really listening. My mind was whirling with thoughts.

“That ranch boy, Levi, what do you think of him?” He asked.

“Oh, he’s fine and no Uncle we just met. He doesn’t like me.” I replied, but I had a feeling that I was wrong as I continued to stare out the truck window and for once in my life I was quiet.

*To be Continued*

[Juxapose]

Very nice story. I like the way you keep Gwen as on character as possible, and still produce a great opening. I'll be looking forward to your future chapters.

[stitch]

Thank you, I do my best to keep all pre-made characters as close to their game personality as possible. I find it makes things easier for readers not having the contrast of oh no this character isn't like that in the game. Besides Gwen is a lovely character to go off of with her high spirits and I like to try to keep her interests as close to the game as possible. I thought it'd be interesting to take things from one of the game characters point of views instead of simply going with the character you create yourself.

I'm glad that you're enjoying this.

[May]

It's good so far, I can't wait for the next chapter ^.^

I agree with Jux, you are doing great with keeping Gwen's character just like the game. I always have a hard time doing that, unless they're Mineral Town characters (for some odd reason).

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Chapter 2 A visit back to Flower Bud Village

Spring 20 Year 1

It was but a few days later that I found myself back in Flower Bud Village. Strictly to visit my Grandfather Woody at his workshop, I had no intention of seeing Levi. The thought of him still bothered me and I was glad to be in my Grandfathers workshop even if Joe was there. I always thought that the way Joe dressed was odd. It reminded me of a pirate more then an apprentice for my Grandfather with his starred bandana wrapped around his head. But I think it was the red and white horizontally stripped shirt with the brown vest and brown pants that really made me think that. There was one thing I didn’t like about Joe. Joe, although only my friend and nothing more, loved to tease me and I still to this day don’t know how, but he found out that I met Levi at the race track. “So I heard you won the race yet again,” Joe smiled.

I was in the kitchen cooking soup when he walked in. I only nodded; my mind was on the task at hand.

“Heard you met the new ranch boy there,” Joe stated as he walked towards me.

The spoon in my hand dropped into the hot pot of soup. I was not expecting that. Quickly trying to recover I grabbed the end of the spoon that was not yet submerged into the hot soup. “Yeah I met him,” I answered calmly. But I knew what Joe was doing. He’d done it before and curse him for it. He always did it while I was cooking so I couldn’t get away.

“I heard that you talked to him before and after your race. Also heard that he watched you race.” Joe slyly replied.

“Everyone at the track watches the races what’s so odd about that?” I asked, but I knew what was coming and I gently bit my lip as I watched the soup begin to boil.

“I heard that he was specifically watching you,” Joe went on.

I grumbled under my breath. My normal cheery spirit dampened. I didn’t come here to talk about Levi. That’s the last thing I wanted. But Joe was making that difficult as usual. “Joe,” I said firmly and sighed as I heard the front door open. Surely that must be Joe’s brother Kurt. Kurt always put a stop to Joe’s teasing.

“Oh guess who that is,” Joe grinned madly as he stole a glance at the front door and I knew all at once that it was not his brother Kurt.

“W-who?” I barely managed to ask still staring at the soup as I took it off of the burner. Something told me that I didn’t think I even wanted to know.

“Hey Levi, come see who’s here!” Joe called. “I think she’d like to see you. She came down for a visit today,” Joe smiled wildly as he looked back at me. I only glared at him before Levi walked in.

“Gwen,” Levi smiled as he saw me. He looked slightly different today. Dirt covered parts of his face and clung to his clothes. He looked more like a hard worker today. Maybe he is taking the ranch seriously and I felt sheepish inside. I personally hadn’t thought that he’d last very long and it looked like I was going to be wrong. But then again I still wasn’t sure what to think of him.

“Hi,” I smiled at him and saw Joe exit the kitchen like I figured he would. “Are you here to see my Grandfather?” I asked.

“Your Grandfather? Oh you mean Woody don’t you?” he asked.

I nodded.

“I did, I came to buy a barn. I finally have the money for one,” he smiled.

For some reason that made me see him a little differently as well. A barn? That means that he’s going to get animals and has to make a full time commitment to them. I found myself smiling freely. I was once again happy and cheerful although I wasn’t completely sure why. “That’s wonderful news,” I replied.

“It is. I’m going to buy a calf and foul right away. I do plan on being tough competition for you and your horse next year,” he answered with a wink.

“I look forward to it,” I stated before I could think about what I was staying and flinched.

“I probably interrupted something that you were doing, didn’t I?” he asked.

I shook my head. “No I just finished when you came in. But I do have to be going. My Uncle Doug won’t be pleased if I’m late in getting to the Town Square so we can head back into town,” I admitted.

“Would you like me to walk you there?” Levi questioned.

“Oh no that’s alright. You still have to order your barn and such. I wouldn’t want to keep you from it. You must have worked hard to get the money and lumber and the shop is closing soon,” I reminded him. I didn’t want him to come anyway. Joe would never let me live it down. It would just be another thing to tease me about.

Levi only nodded. “Do you know when you’re coming back next?”

“In three days on the twenty-third if the Flower Festival is still going. I’m trying not to miss any more festivals this year. I already missed the first two and since I’m going to be living here after the Inn’s built I figured I should become involved with the activities,” I explained.

Levi nodded. “Alright then I’ll see you in three days.”

I smiled and left the kitchen. I quickly said good-bye to my Grandfather and told him that his soup was on the stove before I left the workshop. I sighed as I began to walk.

“Nice guy isn’t he?” A soft almost childish voice asked and I turned to see Nina. She was by far one the youngest girl’s in the village and because of it one of the most childish at times with her shoulder length pink hair that curled at the ends and her light green eyes. She also wore a pale blue dress that flared out from her waist down with a pink and white apron on top.

“Levi you mean?” I asked as I walked over to her. I already knew I was going to be late. A few more minutes couldn’t hurt.

Nina nodded. “He comes over here all the time since he moved here. He’s been giving me some of his home grown strawberries for the past week,” Nina smiled.

“Oh,” I replied. I knew he didn’t like me any more than a friend. I don’t know what I was thinking since I met him. “I actually have to be going Nina. Perhaps we can talk more some other time.” I answered.

“Yes perhaps. Your Uncle Doug was looking for you a few minutes ago,” Nina replied.

My eyes widened a little. “Well then I really have to be going,” I smiled and hurried down the path to the Town Square. I knew already that I was going to enjoy the day that I didn’t have to hurry around to get somewhere in time. Once I lived at the Inn I wouldn’t have to worry about meeting Uncle Doug at the Town Square.

I frowned when I saw my Uncle Doug. He was tapping his footing annoyingly against the ground. I hated it when he did that. “Gwen! Where have you been? You’re nearly half an hour late,” he stated and I could hear the annoyance in his voice which made me wince.

“I’m sorry Uncle. Joe was being impossible again and then Levi showed up. I got away as quickly as I could,” I explained.

My Uncle nodded. “It doesn’t matter now. Come on it’s time we left. Your visit with Woody was fine though?” he asked.

“Fine as usual,” I assured him. I’d been visiting my Grandfather off and on since I was a little girl so I had a lot of memories from this village. “He’s glad that Levi’s around. Say’s he’ll have really good business now,” I smiled.

Doug smiled back. “I suppose so. Gwen I just bought the land deed from Theodore. When we come into town next I’m going to talk to your Grandfather and see when he can build the Inn for us. I should have the money for the building around the twenty-seventh or twenty-eighth of this season.”

“So we’ll be moving in…” I started.

“On the first day of summer and we’ll be all settled in before your birthday on the eighth. Perhaps you’ll feel like doing something for it this year,” he suggested.

“Oh,” I answered. I hadn’t realized that my eighteenth birthday was coming up so soon. I didn’t think about my birthday much on the way home. I was too busy wondering if I really wanted to cook at the Inn. If I was and I lived in the village and I knew that that meant bumping into Levi off and on. But I could always be friends with him I supposed. And I did have friends in the village already that wanted to see me start living there and I would be closer to my Grandfather. I sighed quietly to myself so my Uncle wouldn’t notice and I forced some cheerful conversation. Last time I was quiet on the way home my Uncle had worried that something was wrong and kept questioning me about it. I didn’t want that to happen again.

*To be Continued*

Well I hope you all enjoy it. Sorry that the chapters are a bit on the short side. Next chapter to come in about two days.

[stitch]

Chapter 3 Last of the Spring Festival’s

Spring 23 Year 1 The Flower Festival

I looked around me. The festival was pretty well dead. Only a handful of people actually showed up. It saddened me slightly. I really liked flowers and I had heard that the flower festival used to be a really big event. I was in the middle of listening to Martha, a kind old woman that was helping out at the clinic, talk all about how the festival used to be when she was younger. The idea sounded like fun but I supposed that there weren’t enough girls in the village to celebrate it that way. After all there was only Nina, Maria (Theodore’s daughter), and Ann (a girl that longed to be an inventor). Well I guess and there would be me added to list in a few more days.

My attention was drawn back to the poor festivities when Levi came up to me, a frail looking girl behind him. She had short black hair that was flipped out at ends and solid green eyes. She wore a green dress, the dress looked rather complex, and aside from her pale completion she looked like a very rich spoiled girl. “Levi,” I smiled and waited for him to introduce me to the girl.

“Gwen, I want you to meet Dia. She just moved here with her nurse Gina.” Levi explained as he motioned over to a girl with blue hair that was in two braids and dressed in a nurse outfit.

“Pleasure to meet you Dia,” I smiled. Dia on the other hand said nothing as she hid behind Levi. It was almost as if she was afraid of me or was way too shy.

I saw Levi frown as he looked at Dia. “I’ll be back in a minute Gwen,” he replied and I watched him escort Dia back to her nurse, past the many stands of flowers. When he came back he was still frowning. “I’m sorry. She’s really shy. She barely talks to me. She’s only been here for two days,” Levi explained.

“It’s alright,” I answered but I really thought the girl was odd. Why should one be so shy and quiet?

Levi nodded and I was surprised when he pulled out a flower. “Here, I want you to have this. I grew it myself.”

My eyes grew big at the sight of the Moondrop Flower. Its yellow petals looked so full of color and I could already smell its sweet scent. “Really?” I asked.

Levi smiled at me. “Of course,”

I took the flower still startled from being offered to take it in the first place. “Thank-you, I really like it,” I smiled.

“I’m glad,” Levi replied. “Here come meet someone else,” Levi suggested and I followed him to a girl with long pink hair. She was wearing a dress that was a bluish purple with a slit in the front. It was a very colorful dress really. “Gwen this is Lyla. Lyla this is Gwen,” Levi stated.

“Pleasure to meet you,” I smiled as I shook Lyla’s hand.

“It’s nice to meet you as well,” Lyla smiled at me. “I’m hoping to start my own gift shop. Levi tells me that you’re going to be helping your Uncle run an Inn?”

“Yes that’s right,” I said. Lyla only smiled back. She seemed to hold herself up with a great deal of pride. But I could tell she was a nice person that enjoyed the company of others.

I saw Levi fidget for a second when the conversation didn’t go any farther and he turned to face me. “Gwen can I introduce you to one more person?” Levi asked. “He’s a good friend of mine. I met him shortly after I moved here,” he explained.

“Of course,” I stated as I followed Levi to a young man with blonde hair wearing a black suit. He had dark brownish red eyes that looked rather calm and peaceful.

“Gwen this is Carl. Carl this is Gwen,” Levi smiled as he introduced us.

“Hi Gwen,” Carl smiled at me.

“Hi, it’s nice to meet you,” I smiled back. “Are you living in the village?” I asked.

Carl shook his head. “No not at the moment. Someday though and when I do it’ll be when I open my café. I’ve wanted to start one for a very long time,” He told me.

I nodded and suddenly toned out the conversation that Carl and Levi were having while I stared at the flower in my hand. I was suddenly glad that Levi and I were friends, friends where a good thing to have. I suddenly noticed that my Uncle Doug was standing at the edge of the Town Square waiting for me. I looked at Levi and waited for a break in the conversation. “It was really nice meeting you Carl and it was good to see you again Levi, but I have to be going now,” I replied.

Carl nodded in understanding but as I left Levi followed me. “Are you coming back on the twenty-eighth for the Cow Festival?” he asked.

I stopped dead in my tracks and turned around to face him smiling. “Sure why not? I did say that I was going to try and attend every festival from now on.” And that I knew wouldn’t be a problem when I moved to the village.

“Well good-bye then Gwen. Have a safe trip,” Levi told me.

“I will, see you later,” I smiled as I walked over to my Uncle Doug.

“You’re going to like it when we move here aren’t you?” My Uncle Doug asked.

“Yes, I think I am,” I answered as I once again glanced down at the flower in my hand. I never had expected that I would receive a gift. I suddenly couldn’t wait until the twenty-eighth. Little did I know that I was going to be too ill to go to the festival on the twenty-eighth.

Spring 28 Year 1 The Cow Festival

“I’m sorry Gwen but you just don’t look well enough to be traveling,” My Uncle Doug told me and my heart sank. I’d been looking forward to this for five days and my health just had to get in the way. Why did I have to be sick today? I wondered. Why?

“I’m fine, I’ll be okay,” I protested but I knew that I wasn’t fine and I knew that I wouldn’t be okay. My head ached and throbbed and I felt awful. I wasn’t even dressed yet. I was still in my baggy pajamas. My hair was in its usual ponytail though. That’s as far as I had managed in getting up and dressed.

“I’m sorry Gwen but no. I’ll tell your Grandfather that you’re sick. He’ll understand. I have to go order the making of the Inn now or it’ll never be done,” He told me and I knew I had lost the argument. So shortly after my Uncle had left I went up to my room and flopped down on my bed. It felt good to lie down. I closed my eyes. That felt even better. But when I opened my eyes and saw the flower that Levi had given me five days ago I frowned. The flower hadn’t wilted at all yet and its warming scent still filled the air. I felt bad then. I had told Levi that I would be there. I knew there was nothing I could do since I was sick, but I could have at least…I closed my eyes again and grumbled. I could have at least asked my Uncle Doug to tell Levi that I was sick. Why hadn’t I thought of it? My head throbbed again and I knew why I hadn’t thought of it. It simply hurt to think. So I got comfortable in my bed and closed my eyes. Rest was the only job for the day so I would hopefully be better by tomorrow.

It was about six o’ clock by the time my Uncle Doug came home. I was sitting at the kitchen table trying to eat a bowl of soup. “So is the Inn going to be up by the first?” I asked. Although I was quite sure I already knew the answer to that. I was finally able to think now that my headache was gone and I couldn’t be more relieved. I still didn’t feel all that great yet though.

“Of course, your Grandfather has it half finished already. It would seem that he started on the Twenty-third since he didn’t go to the festival,” My Uncle answered.

I had guessed as much. “Did you go to the festival at all?” I asked.

“Just in time to see Jamie’s cow win and watch her rub it in Levi’s face, the poor lad. I don’t know how Jamie expected him to win when he couldn’t enter anything; she basically won by default,” My Uncle explained.

I hid a frown. I didn’t like Jamie at all. She was mean to everyone. She was a tomboy with her cowboy hat and purple hair. I didn’t really care for the colors that she wore either or her style of clothing. I also knew that she’d be Levi’s rival for as long as he lived in the village. Ah what an awful person she was. “Blue or Ellen didn’t enter a cow this year?” I asked. Blue and Ellen were cousins working on the Blue Sky Ranch which Ellen’s father Hank ran. They had cattle, sheep and chickens.

“Of course they entered a cow. But it was recently just a little under the weather and didn’t look so good for the contest,” My Uncle explained.

I nodded.

“You should go to bed now Gwen. We’ll be moving in two days,” My Uncle reminded me.

“Okay, I’ll see you in the morning,” I answered. I didn’t really feel like sleeping. I’d been doing that all day, but I figured I might as well try as I headed to the stairs that led to my room.

“Levi was asking were you were,” My Uncle finally stated.

I froze where I stood before the stairs and turned around. “And?” I asked.

My Uncle pulled out a Moondrop Flower much like the one that was in my vase in my room only this one was fresher. “He wanted you to have this and he says that he hopes you’ll be at the Beach Festival on the third of Summer. He also asked me to tell you to get better soon. I didn’t tell him we were moving here on the first of Summer. I’ll let you tell him that yourself.”

I smiled and took the flower. I could have ran up the stairs to my room…no maybe not. I still didn’t feel well enough for that yet. But I was happy now as I walked up the stairs and opened the door to my room. There I set my new flower in with the old one before I crawled into bed and started reading a book on horses. I couldn’t stop smiling. Levi had to have worked hard to grow the flowers and I had to admit that I admired hard work.

*To be Continued*

[violet]

Yes..the never-wilting flowers...

[stitch]

Chapter 4 The new Inn

Summer 1 Year 1

I woke up in my room with excitement. Yesterday I hadn’t been sick at all and now as I looked at all the boxes in my room I couldn’t help my happiness. I was moving into Flower Bud Village and it was my friend Bob’s birthday. I hadn’t seen Bob in awhile. He hadn’t attended any of the festival’s I had went too and he hadn’t been in the village when I was in on the twentieth of Spring. I shrugged. Bob and I had hung out a lot when we were kids always racing our horses at the race track. He was sometimes a little competition for me. I didn’t have time to think about that as I got dressed and pulled my hair back into a ponytail. Then I quickly boxed the blanks on my bed. The movers were going to be here soon. Already much of the house was empty from moving things yesterday but today was the final move.

“Gwen!” my Uncles voice rang up from downstairs.

I quickly slipped on my boots and hurried down to see him. “Yes Uncle?” I asked.

“Are you ready to go?” he asked.

I nodded.

“That’s good because the movers are going to be moving your things first. That way you should be able to unpack and be settled in by this afternoon. I would suspect that you want to wish Bob a happy birthday, no?” he asked.

I nodded once more. Happiness gleamed in my eyes. There was no indication that I had been sick only three days ago. It was less than two hours later before my things were loaded and on their way to Flower Bud Village. My heart was racing, I couldn’t believe it I was finally going to be moving in. The excitement was nearly too much for me when we entered the village about an hour later.

I watched very displeased as my things were carelessly unpacked from the trucks and placed inside the building that would be my new home. When the truck had left I sighed. My things were in a mess of boxes that I had to sort out. I stared at the outside of the Inn. It looked nice and I was sure that the inside would be as well. My Uncle had already warned me that there was no upstairs so my room would be on the main floor behind the kitchen. “Gwen?” a voice I recognized immediately asked.

I turned around to see Levi and I smiled. “Hi,”

“You look great. You must be feeling better,” he stated.

“I am. Thank-you for the flower, it was really nice of you to send it,” I answered.

“Your Uncle’s Inn?” he asked me.

“Sure is. We’re moving in today so I have a lot of unpacking to do,” I admitted.
“Do you need any help? I’m done for the afternoon. I just finished tending to my calf and foal,” he offered.

“Oh, well if you’re sure that you want to, I suppose you could,” I smiled.
“Great, what can I do?” he asked and the two of us spent hours moving boxes and arranging my bed, dresser, and night table. Three hours later I set the vase with my two flowers from Levi on my dresser and I sighed. My room was finally in order. The only thing that remained was my clothes that were in a few boxes. I’d get to those later. “Well that looks like everything,” Levi grinned. “Hey those are the flowers I gave you aren’t they?” he asked.

“Yes they are. Thank-you for your help, you’ll stay for supper won’t you? It’s the least I could do,” I replied.

Levi stretched and looked outside. “It is that late isn’t it? Sure I’ll stay for supper. I hear you’re quite the cook,” he smiled at me.

“Oh, you did. Did you?” I asked.

“Joe kept telling me that I ought to try it. He says it’ll be the best meal of my life,” he replied.

“Joe said that did he? Well let’s see if my cooking can live up to Joe’s opinion,” I suggested as I pulled out a frying pan and began making omelets. I knew they were rather hard to make. But when I made them they were normally quite good. I opened the fridge door and pulled out the ingredients I needed and I shook my head. Why did I suddenly want to know Levi’s opinion of my cooking? And why did I invite him for supper? Was I just being nice? Or was there something more to it then that I wondered as I made myself busy in the kitchen while Levi waited at one of the tables. “How’s the farm coming?” I asked.

“Great, I’ve got quite a few plants and my calf and foal seem quite happy,” he replied.

“Could I come see one day?” I asked and blinked at my own question. Where did that question come from?

“Sure why not. If you’re not busy you can stop over at my house sometime. It’s across the river from your Grandfather’s workshop.”

“Sounds good I can’t wait,” I smiled and awhile later I brought the omelets out to him. “There, it turned out quite nicely,” I answered as I set one of the plates in front of him.

Levi nodded. “It looks that way,” he replied as he took a bite. “I don’t think Joe was kidding Gwen. I don’t recall an omelet ever tasting this good before. Your Uncle’s lucky to have you cooking here.”

“Thank-you,” I smiled and then suddenly I remembered something. A frown crossed my face as I saw how dark it was getting outside.

“Gwen what’s wrong?” Levi asked.

“It’s my friend’s birthday today and I haven’t seen them yet,” I admitted.

“Who’s your friend? Perhaps I can tell you where they are,” he suggested.

“It’s Bob. Was he in town today?” I asked.

Levi nodded. “He should still be at the Blue Sky Ranch. Here why I don’t I walk with you? It’s on my way home anyway,” he suggested and I nodded.

It took awhile, but we finally made it to Blue Sky Ranch. I quickly looked around and spotted Bob’s tall muscular figure. His skin was tanned like it always was and his hair was short and black. He wore a white muscle shirt and blue jeans with black gloves. It looked like he was just about getting ready to leave. “Bob!” I called hoping that he’d hear me. To my luck he did and turned to face me.

“Gwen? Is that you?” he asked.

I smiled wildly. “It is. Happy birthday!”

“Thanks,” Bob smiled. “Did you come all the way out of town just to tell me that?” he asked.

“No, I’m staying in town from now on. The Inn is up,” I announced. “Bob you’ve met Levi right?” I asked.

Bob nodded. “Sure have,”

“Wonderful!” I smiled extremely happy. But I found out later that I should have asked if they were friends.

“Gwen, I’m going to go now alright? I’ll see you later,” Levi answered.

“Oh, okay bye!” I smiled.

“Happy birthday Bob,” Levi stated before he walked across the street and disappeared into his house.

“Are you hanging around with him now?” Bob asked almost sourly.

“What? Bob, he’s my friend. He helped me move in today,” I replied.

“Yeah he’s friends with a lot of the girls in the town, especially Dia. He goes to see her every day,” Bob informed me.

“Oh,” I answered. “Well I should go. Uncle Doug might be there now. See you later Bob.” I smiled. But it was a greatly forced smile. Did Levi like Dia more then me? Does he give her gifts too? Uncle Doug told me that Theodore suggested that Levi married someone at some point and that he preferred it to be a girl in this village. I frowned. Was he going to marry Dia and only be friends with me? I wondered a little disheartened. But I couldn’t think long. The night air was cool and made me shiver as I walked. The stars dotted the sky and the moon was rising. I told myself not to worry about Levi. Whatever happened would happen. But I did know of the Star Festival coming up on the seventh day of Summer. One day before my birthday. On the morning of the Star Festival one could go to another’s house and ask them to float a bamboo boat down the river. It was really more like a date then a festival. But perhaps I’ll ask Levi if he wants to do that with me. I decided as I walked back to the Inn longing for my bed. I was tired and confused and I needed a good nights sleep.

“Gwen, I was wondering when you’d show up,” Uncle Doug stated as I entered the Inn. “Coming back from seeing Bob?” he asked.

“I am. Nothing seems to have changed with him,” I assured as I walked towards the kitchen. It was strange really. My bedroom behind the kitchen, what an odd thought that was.

“Are you off to bed so soon?” he asked.

“Yes it’s been a long day,” I answered and my Uncle only nodded as I entered my room and got ready for bed. I didn’t have to lay in bed long before I drifted into a well wanted sleep.

*To be Continued*

[violet]

Levi's a player

[stitch]

Chapter 5 The Beach Festival

Summer 3 Year 1

I yawned as I got out of bed. Today I knew was the Beach Festival and I was a little excited for it. I looked at the empty vase on my dresser. The first Moondrop Flower Levi had given me had wilted yesterday so I had thrown it out. The second one I had taken out of the water and was now pressing it so I could keep it longer. I stretched as I stood up. Levi had surprised me yesterday when he had come by at nine in the morning. Right when the Inn opened, and gave me a cabbage that he’d grown at the end of Spring. I had to admit that I loved cabbages, especially ones that were so high quality. It was because of the top quality cabbage that I was reminded that Levi had worked very hard to grow it and I found myself falling for him all over again. As if I hadn’t even heard that he went to see Dia just as much as me…if not more.

It only took me a few minutes to get dressed and pull my hair back into a ponytail. I was ready to go swimming. I already knew that I wasn’t the best swimmer around. But I could still try and win. With that thought I hurried out into the kitchen, grabbed a quick snack and was on my way. “You’re going so soon Gwen?” my Uncle asked.

I nodded. “I don’t want to be late,” I explained.

“Are you going to be alright going down to the beach alone?” he asked.

I nodded once more. “I only don’t like it at night,” I replied as I walked outside. Those who know me well know that I lost both my parents to the Sea one night when I was about five years old. It had been a late night that they had gone out and that night was the last time I ever saw them. I began walking to keep my mind off of it. For the longest time I had refused to go down to the beach or in the water. I had eventually grown out of that, but my fear of the beach at night had never left me. I was always scared that a big wave would drag me out to sea if I was at the beach alone.

It didn’t take me long to make it to the beach and I oddly felt better when I saw Levi there. Joe, Lyla, Dia, Gina, Carl, Ellen, Blue, Ann, Nina, Maria, and even Alex (the village doctor) and Martha were there as well. It was a bigger turn out then usual. “Hi Gwen, I’m glad that you made it,” Levi smiled as he walked up to me.

“I’m glad to be here,” I smiled. “It’s a good day for this,” I stated.

“It is. Are you going in the swimming contest?” he asked.

“Ah not this year I don’t think. I’m not that good of a swimmer,” I explained. I suddenly didn’t like the idea of going swimming.

“I’m sure that you’re a better swimmer then you’re stating,” Levi said. “Joe told me that you’re pretty good.”

I sighed softly. “Well alright, I’ll enter. But if I beat you I don’t want to hear any complaints,” I smiled.

“Beat me?” he asked. “We’ll see,” he grinned. “You’re the only girl besides Jamie that’s going to compete.”

“Jamie’s here?” I asked and as I looked farther down the beach I saw her. “Oh I guess she is here.”

“She’s quite determined to win,” Levi answered.

I frowned. “Just ignore her. She’s rude to everyone,” I informed him. “But what is this with talking to Joe so much?” I asked. “It seems that Joe tells you a lot about me.”

Levi shrugged, smiling. “A little about you,” he admitted. “I’ve been going over to your Grandfathers quite a bit lately. I’ve been thinking about getting a chicken coop so I could have a few chickens, but well, it hasn’t really been decided yet. I’ve priced one out, but then again I priced out an upgrade for my barn as well.” Levi paused for a moment. “Theodore though would like to see me expand my house. I don’t know about that, maybe next season or winter when I’m not so busy.” I noticed that Levi looked a little confused and worried over the matter.

“Just do what you want to do. I wouldn’t worry about what Theodore wants too much and just forget about it today or Jamie will win,” I reminded.

“Thanks Gwen and you’re right,” he replied.

“I do hope you win. I heard how she rubbed in her win at the Cow Festival. It was very unfair of her to do.”

“Ah don’t worry about it. I’m going to go talk to some other people now before the contest starts alright?”

“Oh, yeah, sure go ahead.” I said and watched him walk over to Dia. I simply didn’t let that bother me and walked over to see Lyla instead. She was standing by the waters edge. I had heard yesterday that she had gotten her gift shop up and I wanted to go and see it sometime. “Hello,” I stated as I walked over to her. I saw her bright gray eyes sparkle for a moment.

“Gwen right? We met at the Flower Festival did we not?” she asked.

“That’s right. I heard your gift shop just opened up not too long ago,” I told her.

“Yes it did just open and I saw the Inn. It looks very nice and I heard that you’re the cook.” Lyla smiled.

“Yes that’s me,” I giggled. “I’ll have to come and look at your shop sometime. I’d like to see it.”

“Oh yes you should. I’d like that very much,” Lyla replied as she clasped her hands together. I knew right away that I’d like her as a friend. Lyla seemed like a very nice person and very cheerful as well, there was just something about her that made me like her instantly. “You look well today. I heard that you were ill a few days ago.”

“I was indeed…” The bell signifying that the swimming contest was about to begin cut me off and I drew in a breath. “Well I guess I have to go. I’m entered in this contest.”

“Really? Best of luck then Gwen, I’m sure you’ll do just fine,” Lyla assured me as I walked over to the area were the contest was going to be held. I was glad that I had my bathing suit on underneath my clothes so it only took me a few seconds to be ready. But oh was the sea water cold. It made me shiver. But after a minute or two I got used to it and just in time to because Theodore was just getting ready to go over the rules.

The rules were short and the idea of the contest simple. There were four different colored buoys spread out in the square swimming area. The object was simple enough. The first one to touch all four buoys won. But the currents that came up every now and then made it more difficult. I already didn’t think I was going to win. But I was going to try my best. The whistle went and I started to swim to the nearest buoy. It was blue. I swam as hard and as long as I could. I made it halfway before I had to slow down and regain my energy.

A few strokes later and I made it to the blue buoy then I headed to the yellow one to my right. It wasn’t that far away. Come on I can do this. I assured myself as I swam. It’s not that far…just a little more…there! I made it to the yellow buoy only the red and green one left. The green one was closer so I went to that one first. By the time I reached the green one and finally the red one I noticed who I was competing against. It was Levi, Jamie, and Joe. I heard the whistle sound off again declaring that the contest was done and I swam to the edge. I placed third. Not a bad place I thought to myself. I managed to do better then Joe and I couldn’t be happier to know that Jamie got dealt a second place. Levi had won! “Congratulations,” I said to Levi when I saw him a short while after I had dried off.

“Oh thanks, you did pretty well. Third place isn’t bad at all,” he smiled.

I nodded. “It’s been awhile since I’ve went swimming. You’re very good at it,” I assured him as my eyes looked out at the Sea and I saw that the sun was starting to set. “I think it’s about time that I left. Bye!” I stated as I left in somewhat of a hurry. I’d been down at the beach longer then I had thought. I did however leave the beach so fast that I never even heard Levi say good-bye to me.

When I finally made it to the Inn my Uncle Doug gave me an odd look. “You’ve been gone for a lot of the day,” he commented.

“I got talked into entering the contest. I placed third. Joe got fourth AND Jamie got second,” I smiled quite content on how the day had went.

“And who got first?” my Uncle asked.

“Levi did. You should have been there Uncle. There were more people there then usual. Levi seems to be convincing them to come and Theodore I’m quite sure is happy about that,” I explained.

“Yes Theodore has mentioned that he’s been working quite hard and yet manages to make quite a few friends,” my Uncle informed me.

“I guess that’s so. I think I’m going to go to bed now,” I stated as I started for the kitchen.

“Gwen, just a minute please,” my Uncle stated. “The Star Festival is coming up and you said that you wanted to attended every festival or celebrate it. Who are you planning on asking to go with you to float a bamboo boat? You’ve never had anything to do with this festival before,” my Uncle curiously asked.

I turned to face him unsure of the answer I would give him. I already knew that I wanted to ask Levi and if he said no then I wasn’t going to celebrate the festival. But did I really want to tell my Uncle that? Of course not! “I don’t know yet. I still have a few days to decide,” I assured him.

“You could ask Levi if you wanted to, although you might have to ask him fairly early in the morning. I hear a few girls wouldn’t mind asking him,” my Uncle informed me.

“Oh is that so?” I asked. I knew Dia would be one of them. Would Lyla be another? Could I even befriend Lyla if she was going to ask him? Ah! It was a crazy thought.

“Nina and Maria seem to want to ask him or at least that’s what their parents tell me,” my Uncle smiled.

“Well thank-you for telling me. I’ll think about it,” I answered as I disappeared into my room. I frowned at the thought of competition for Levi…what was I even thinking about? Competition? The thought was absurd. Levi was a person like anyone else. He liked who he liked. But who did he like the most? Was what puzzled me and I eventually just let the thought drift away as I told myself to forget about it. There was no point in wondering, no point in daydreaming, and no point in worrying about it. I would ask Levi to join me on the seventh and he’d either say yes or no. That would be when I would find out. But what if I wasn’t first to ask him? What if someone else asked him first and he accepted because he didn’t know I was going ask? I groaned as I buried my head into my pillow. My own thoughts beginning to annoy me and after about an hour I was finally able to close my eyes and sleep like I should have been able to do in the first place. Could something be wrong with me?

*To be Continued*

[stitch]

Chapter 6 Wandering around the village

Summer 4 Year 1

I was up at about eight in the morning and ready for the day ahead. I had two things on my mind to do. One was to see Lyla’s gift shop and the second to see Levi’s farm. I put my breakfast dishes into the sink. I’d wash them later. I still had to break the news to my Uncle that I was going to be gone for the day. But I did want to explore the village a little. “Good morning Uncle. I’m going to be out for a fair bit of the day alright? I want to check out the village if that’s alright,” I stated.

My Uncle frowned but nodded. “Alright I suppose you can. But could you help me set up for the day before you leave?” he asked.

“Of course,” I smiled and so I began making sure that the tables were clean and the chairs pushed in right. Then I headed off to the spare rooms that were open. There was one girl staying at the Inn at the moment. Her name was Nami. She did the weather report and liked to travel around. She had short messy red hair. She also wore white shorts and an orange shirt with a short sleeved blue and white checkered shirt on top. I just avoided her room not wishing to disturb her and straightened up the other rooms. By nine I was finally done and the Inn had just opened. To my surprise Levi walked in only a few minutes after my Uncle had unlocked the door. “Good morning Levi,” I smiled.

“Hi Gwen!” he smiled back and to my surprise he pulled out a bright green cabbage.

“What for me?” I asked.

“Of course,” he answered handing it to me.

I laughed slightly. “Thank-you I love it,” I replied taking it.

“Well I should be going. I just stopped by to say hi and give that to you,” he replied. “I hope I’ll see you later.”

“Bye!” I said, he left and I looked down at the cabbage in my hands. I’d find something to do with it later. If he came and gave me a cabbage every day I’d run out of things to do with them. I laughed to myself, setting the cabbage into the kitchen. I’d make cabbage soup with it for supper that night I guessed, leaving the Inn before Uncle Doug could say a word about it.

The morning air was warm and dry. It was going to be a hot day. I knew that already as I crossed the bridge to the right hand side of the village. I had heard that Lyla’s Gift Shop was just to the right of the Town Square. It didn’t take me long to reach the Town Square. The Inn wasn’t too far from it and as I walked through the Town Square I saw a small house that must be Lyla’s shop and sure enough it was. I smiled when I noticed that it was open and I entered. “Gwen? Hi it’s good to see you,” Lyla stated from behind the counter.

I walked in farther and smiled. “It’s nice to see you too. I came to look at your shop,” I stated. “I’ve been quite curious to see what you’re selling,” I admitted, looking around. My eyes lit up when I saw all the yarn. I loved to knit. I knew right then that I’d be a regular customer.

“See anything that you like yet?” Lyla asked.

I nodded. “I didn’t know that you sold yarn. I can see myself coming here often to buy some,” I smiled.

“Why don’t you take a ball of yarn right now? It’ll be on the house since this is your first visit,” Lyla suggested.

“A-are you sure?” I asked.

Lyla nodded. “Yes go ahead and pick a color that you like.”

“Oh alright then,” I looked at the colors, there were so many to choose from, pink, yellow, blue, orange, red, green, and purple. “Well I suppose I’ll take blue. It’s my favorite color.”

“Wonderful choice!” Lyla smiled happily. “I look forward to your next visit,” Lyla stated as I left her shop and headed to Levi’s farm. I was glad that I had chosen to wear a backpack so the yarn wouldn’t get dirty. I took my time in walking over to Levi’s farm. To my luck Bob wasn’t at the Blue Sky Ranch. I didn’t like how Bob seemed to dislike Levi. It hurt me some, but I couldn’t care much seeing Levi water his plants.

“Hi, did I catch you at a bad time?” I asked standing on the outskirts of his property not sure if I should tread any farther.

“No, not at all, I was just finishing up with the plants before I headed over to my barn,” Levi smiled.

“Alright, where is your barn anyway?” I asked when I noticed that it wasn’t around the small yard. I don’t even think the yard was big enough to fit a barn, but I suppose if it had needed to be, a barn could be squished in.

“It’s actually across the street from your Grandfathers workshop,” Levi replied rubbing the back of his neck.

My cheeks burned bright red. I had walked right passed it yesterday. I should have noticed it. “Oh,” I stated sheepishly.

“Here why don’t we go? I’ll show you my calf and foal,” he suggested and I gladly accepted the offer. It was a short walk to his barn and I felt a little bad about not seeing my Grandfather. I told myself that I’d reserve a special day to go and see him as I entered the barn. “Over there is Pokey,” he smiled walking over to the small back and white cow. “And this is Flash,” he answered walking over to the small brown foal and rubbed its neck.

I smiled wildly looking at Flash. I could tell already that the little colt was fond of his owner. “You’ll be able to ride him as soon as he’s big,” I stated happily. It took a lot of work to get an animal’s affection so high. I knew from experience.

“I hope so. We’re going to practice up and then we’ll see how much of a challenge we can be for you,” he grinned.

“Let me know when he’s big. We could go down to the race track together and practice if you’d like,” I offered and somehow couldn’t believe what I was saying.

“That sounds like fun. I’ll need the practice. I’ve never raced in my life,” he admitted.

“Don’t worry I’m sure you’ll do fine.”

“If you’re going to teach me I’ll do fine,” he answered.

I turned my attention to Pokey. I couldn’t look at Levi. There was just no way. I was too embarrassed or was I too flattered? I couldn’t handle the questions my mind was giving me. It was just too much. “Both your animals look very well. You must give them a lot of attention and care,” I managed to say.

“I do. I talk to them, brush them and feed them everyday.” Levi smiled proudly.

“That must take a lot of time.”

“It does, but I enjoy it.”

I nodded happily. “Well I should leave you to your work. Uncle Doug will want me back soon anyway. Bye!” I smiled leaving the barn and headed for the Inn, which was a short walk past the Spring Farm where Nina lived with her mother Liz.

“Gwen it’s good to see that you’re back,” Uncle Doug said.

“I wasn’t planning on being out all day,” I admitted heading for the kitchen.

“Perhaps you should start supper since you’re in.”

“Okay I’ll only be a minute,” I replied. Entering my room, I set my backpack down on my bed. It was time to cook that cabbage and make it into soup. I already knew that my Uncle Doug would be jumping with joy. After all we had cabbage with last night’s meal as well. I grinned to myself pulling out a knife so I could start cutting the cabbage. Star Festival here I come. I smiled with growing confidence as I began to get supper ready. I knew that day would be very important for me and I couldn’t wait. Only three days to go before I would walk over to Levi’s farm. The whole idea made me nervous. What if he said no?

*To be Continued*

[Juxapose]

Wow, sorry I missed all the chapters. I was pretty busy lately.

I'm really starting to like this story. A good casual read, with slight drama and romance. I'll be looking forward to the future chapters.

[stitch]

Chapter 7 The Star Festival

Summer 7 Year 1

The cool morning air made me shiver as I walked over to Levi’s house. I was so nervous. I’d already thought about going back to the Inn at least a dozen times in the past five minutes as I walked. I mean really what if he said no? But then again what if he said yes? I continued on not knowing which answer I was more afraid of. My fingers started trembling so I shoved them in my pockets. It’s just a question I told myself, a harmless question. But what would Uncle Doug think when he found out that I’d asked Levi? I still hadn’t told him. I hadn’t been brave enough. What if Joe found out? I shuddered at the thought of being teased again.

I walked by the Spring Farm and followed the path going north to the river. As soon as I crossed that bridge there was no turning back and I knew it. So at the bridge I came a stop and hesitated. Do I really want to do this? Couldn’t I just go home and forget about him? I frowned slightly. I knew I couldn’t forget about him. He came to the Inn everyday. Sometimes with a flower or another time with a cabbage and soon he had told me he could bring some eggs now that his chicken coop was up.

I drew in a deep breath and crossed the bridge. I listened to the water pass by underneath me and felt extremely nervous now. I couldn’t seem to calm down. His front door was only a few steps away. Could I do this? There was still time to run. I was now standing in front of his door debating if I really wanted to leave when the door suddenly opened and Levi walked out. My chance to change my mind was gone. “Gwen? What are you doing here?” he asked.

I quickly composed myself. “Well today is the Star Festival and we get to float bamboo boats down the river after we make a wish! I though we could do it together. But only if you have time that is…” I stated.

Levi smiled. “Sure that sounds like fun,” he answered.

“Okey dokey! I’ll meet you in the Town Square then later tonight,” I smiled.

Levi nodded. “I’ll see you there,” he answered watching me leave. As soon as my back was facing him the hugest grin crossed my face. I couldn’t believe I had done that.

I slowly made my way back to the Inn and wondered if my Uncle was up yet. When I had left this morning he was still asleep. Partly to my displeasure he was awake and standing behind the front desk. “Gwen, where did you go?” he asked curiously.

It took a lot of effort, but I kept most emotion from my face. “To Levi’s farm,” I answered.

“Oh right, today’s the Star Festival. Did you ask him?” he questioned.

“I did,” I smiled.

“And what did he say?” my Uncle asked.

“Yes,” I replied. “He said yes,” I answered relieved.

“Gwen, that’s wonderful.” My Uncle smiled.

“Ah, thank-you,” I stated. “I’m meeting him tonight. Now I better go cook breakfast and do some cleaning, right?” I asked.

Uncle Doug nodded. “That’s right Gwen. When you finish your chores you can do what you wish since we’re closed today.”

“Okay!” I smiled hurrying into the kitchen, I pulled out butter, breadfruit, milk, egg, and honey from the fridge to make pancakes. I set those out on the counter and pulled out my frying pan. I mixed the ingredients together in a bowl and cooked it in the frying pan. To my surprise I was humming the whole time while I cooked.

“How’s it coming Gwen?” Uncle Doug asked when he could smell the pancakes cooking.

“Great! I already have a few done. Why don’t you and Nami eat now while I cook up the rest?” I asked and from there the day just got busier and busier. I swept each of the rooms and the kitchen. Washed dishes and dried them. Organized the fridge and wiped off the tables. I also cleaned up my room a little before I sank into a chair slightly exhausted. I had just finished cooking and eating supper.

“Gwen,” Uncle Doug stated.

“Yes?” I asked.

“Shouldn’t you be going somewhere?” he asked.

“Huh…OH!” I shot up out of my chair. I was supposed to be meeting Levi at the Town Square at any minute. “Thanks for reminding me!” I called running into my room, I grabbed the bamboo boat that we would be floating before I hurried outside. Time had gone by so fast. I had forgotten that it was the Star Festival. It wasn’t long before I got to the Town Square and I saw Levi waiting. He saw me and smiled so I ran up to him. “Sorry I’m late,” I stated bowing my apology.

“It’s alright you’re here now,” he smiled.

I nodded. “Ready to go then?” I asked.

He nodded and we started walking out of the Town Square. We came to a stop at a small dock not far from his house and he looked at me. “Well what should we wish for?” he asked.

Was I supposed to know the answer to that? “Ah, well I really like the festivals. Not just for the wishes and things like this one but because it brings people together,” I stated. “Why don’t we each make our own silent wish?” I suggested handing him the bamboo boat. “I’m really no good with wish making. I’ve never done this festival before,” I admitted.

“Well then I hope you do this festival again next year,” Levi smiled. “Perhaps with me again,” he stated hopefully setting the bamboo boat into the river and we watched it float downstream until we couldn’t see it again. “Here I’ll walk you to the Inn,” Levi offered.

“Oh, okay,” I said walking with him passed his house and down to the Inn in silence. “The next festival is on the fifteenth…are you going to be there?” I asked.

Levi nodded. “Of course,” he stated stopping. We were already at the Inn. “I’ll see you tomorrow Gwen. Good night,” he whispered before leaving.

“Good-bye,” I whispered back opening the front door to the Inn and went inside. I had had some fun tonight. I still had trouble believing that I had asked him to join me that morning, but I felt good about it. I entered my room and got ready for bed. I’d have to stay at the Inn and work for a couple of days now. But I was going to see my Grandfather sometime this week. Perhaps tomorrow since it was my birthday. I guess I’d have to see.

*To be Continued*

Well I'm glad that you're liking the story. This is my first Harvest Moon Fan Fic and I wasn't quite sure how to write it at first.

[Juxapose]

*Update!!*

I just saw some videos on the Wind Bazaar game, and I made some rather interesting discoveries.



In this first video, I have seen the love events. What I found strange is that they seem to recycle some of the old tracks from the older DS games. Prime example is the romance music events from Island of Happiness. However, the portraits of the characters sem quite low quality, which I feel dissapointed about. The characters to make some sounds as you talk to them, similar to Magical Melody or AWL.



In this video, we can see that Horse Racing is back! No more just showing off the horse, and call that a contest, we get a timed race. I do feel disappointed that we can't have a REAL horse race (Where we compete other NPC), but maybe we could have one where we could race other players via WiFi. I sure hope so.



In this video, we can see some pretty odd and new features. First, i noticed that your character can walk sideways, and backwards now. I am not sure if this will be helpful in farming. The next thing I noticed is the fact that your character can jump. And even double jump! Pretty wierd eh? Last, looks like you can play a game of basketball with the crops. Tou toss them in, and the crops can land either in, or out of the basket, and bounce in. I saw this Video, and it made me say. . . WTF?




In this video, you can see your character selling stuff, and all the money you can possibly make. It looks cool, it made me go LOL when a potential partner takes a look at your stall, and you can tick him off. Probably tried to rip him off.



In this video, you can see that your character has a TON of pets. I think I saw like 3 dogs, and 3 cats at once. They look quite useful in the farm if you ask me. Other than that, you can see the animals you can raise in the farm.

[stitch]

Chapter 8 My Birthday

Summer 8 Year 1

I got up at eight-thirty in morning and was ready to go visit my Grandfather by nine. Uncle Doug had already said happy birthday to me and I oddly wasn’t surprised when Levi walked into the Inn as soon as it opened. I was becoming used to his short visits and enjoyed them a fair bit. “Hi!” I smiled as he walked over to me.

“Hello Gwen! Here I brought you something a little different today,” Levi smiled handing me a jar. “It’s blueberry jam. I made it this morning.”

My eyes lit up. “You made this?” I asked.

“I sure did and happy birthday by the way,” he grinned.

“Oh thank-you,” I replied almost starting to blush. “Um, I have to go. My Grandfather is expecting to see me,” I answered.

“Oh, okay, I won’t get in your way then. Have a good day,” he smiled. I left in a hurry for Woody’s workshop with the jar of jam still in my hands. Don’t ask me why I brought it with me. I just did.

“Well, well if it isn’t the birthday girl,” Joe grinned as I walked in. “Say what do you have there? Wouldn’t happen to be a gift from Levi would it? I saw him head your way not too long ago.”

“That’s enough Joe,” I firmly stated. I knew that my Grandfather was listening to every word.

“Sir,” Joe said looking at my Grandfather and I swallowed around a lump in my throat. I wanted to kill Joe for what he said next. “Did you know that your Granddaughter asked Levi to join her in floating a bamboo boat last night? Heard he walked her to the Inn as well,”

My Grandfather looked at me. “Gwen is this true?” he asked.

“Yes,” I honestly answered quietly.

“That’s wonderful Gwen! It’s good to know that you’re getting into the festivals a little more,” Woody stated and I was glad that that was all he had to say about that. “Happy birthday.”

“Thank-you,” I answered.

“Sorry that I’m making you work on this fine day,” he replied.

“Oh it’s alright. I don’t mind at all,” I smiled.

“That’s good. You’ll probably be here all day.”

“It is okay, I took the whole day off whether Uncle Doug likes it or not,” I laughed. “I’ll go get started,” I answered grabbing a broom from the closet. I spent about an hour sweeping the whole floor and I couldn’t believe exactly how much dirt did come off of the floor. It was awful. I was glad that shop was closed today so no one could disturb me or see the pile of dirt on the floor. It was nice being the only one in the house.

After disposing of the dirt, I pulled out a mop and began mopping. The house was going to be sparkling clean by the time I was done. I made sure that the dishes were done and the tables wiped off. I even washed the walls as well as the counters. I also went up stairs and cleaned out the fireplace as well as washed all the bedding. By six o’ clock at night I was finished. I sighed putting all of my cleaning things away and walked outside. The evening air felt good as I walked back to the Inn with the jar of jam. I had to admit that the jam tasted marvelous. I had cooked toast for lunch so I could try it out.

I glanced around as I walked. The village seemed to be awfully quiet for a Tuesday night but I ignored the thought as I approached the Inn and opened the door. “Surprise!” A bunch of people yelled.

I nearly dropped the jar of jam in my hands. “W-what is this?” I asked looking at everyone in the room. Lyla, Joe, Kurt, Levi, Woody, and Uncle Doug were in the room.

“Hey happy birthday Gwen,” Lyla smiled.

“B-but why are you all here?” I asked.

“To celebrate your birthday of course, I invited them,” my Uncle Doug said. “Levi offered to make the cake for you.”

I felt my cheeks burn red at having them all watch me. “Ah, thank-you,” I barely managed to say.

“Bob couldn’t come,” Uncle Doug informed me.

I only nodded.

“Well let’s get everything ready. Levi, why don’t you bring out the cake that you made?” my Uncle suggested and the next thing I knew Joe was beside me handing me a cup of juice.

“He spent a fair bit of the day on that cake,” Joe whispered to me.

“Oh?” My eyes widened a bit and I gasped as the cake was brought out. It was beautiful. It had pink and green icing with my name written on the top. I knew Joe was right. Levi had spent a lot of time on the cake.

“All the ingredients came off of his farm too,” Joe remarked.

I wish Joe would have stopped. I was blushing enough as it was. I hadn’t expected anyone to come over or make me a cake. Awhile after the cake had been eaten I found myself standing beside Lyla. “You have nice relatives,” Lyla stated.

“I have good friends too,” I smiled.

Lyla laughed lightly. “I’m glad that I was invited.”

“I’m glad that you came. I’ve been meaning to use that yarn yet,” I replied.

“Oh, I’m sure that you’ll use it well when you do use it,” she assured me.

I nodded. “I really don’t know what to say about all this. I never expected…”

“You’re a very well liked person Gwen. These people care about you and just want you to be happy,” Lyla remarked. “It’s late though and I should be going. I hope you had a good evening Gwen.”

“I did. Thank-you once again for coming,” I smiled watching Lyla leave and shortly after her Joe, Kurt, and my Grandfather left. It was only after Levi helped me clean up did I find myself standing outside beside him. “Thank-you for coming, and for the cake, and the jam,”

Levi smiled. “No problem. I enjoyed it and it looked like you had a good time too, tonight.”

“I did,” I replied and then there was the awkward silence. I stepped back from Levi for a moment uncertainly.

“Well I should be going. I hope you had a good night and I suppose I’ll see you tomorrow,” he smiled.

“Coming over to visit again?” I asked.

“Every day if I can,” Levi smiled starting to walk down the road. I waited until he was gone before I went into the Inn. Uncle Doug was still awake and looking at me curiously.

“What?” I asked glancing at him.

“Nothing,” my Uncle replied. “Your horse is going to be brought up here in a few days. I assume that you’ll want to be riding her.”

My eyes lit up. I hadn’t rode Spirit since the horse races in Spring. I felt a little excited.

“Perhaps you’ll enter the Fall horse races this year?” he asked.

I frowned some. “Ah, I don’t know,” I answered. I wasn’t sure if that was a good idea. My horse didn’t take to well to being rode in the Fall. I always thought that it had something to do with the colors or perhaps the fallen leaves. “Maybe,” I stated.

“You should think it over Gwen. You never know. You might like the Fall races as much as the Spring ones,” he pointed out

“Maybe,” I said again. “I’m going to go to bed now. I’ll be working here for the rest of the week, I promise. No running off until next week,” I smiled.

“That’s good to hear. You’ll be attending the Firefly Festival this year then?” he asked.

I shivered for a moment. The Firefly Festival took place at the beach…at night. But I wouldn’t be alone at the beach I told myself. I only managed a nod to my Uncle.

“It’ll be good for you to go Gwen. Perhaps you’ll get over your fear,” he suggested.

Again I only nodded as I disappeared into my room, slipped into my pajama’s, and crawled into bed. I really didn’t like the beach at night. But I would go. I already told Levi that I would. It wouldn’t be that bad after all. It was only a few hours and a bunch of other people would be there. There was really no reason to be afraid. I kept telling myself, staring at the roof. Why did these thoughts always have to bother me at night? I wondered and then I quickly wheeled my thoughts around onto the events of the night, the surprise party and the happy conversations that went on. That seemed to settle my nerves enough for me to sleep.

*To be Continued*