Harvest Moon: Tales of Forget-Me-Not Valley

Chapter 1

The remote village of Forget-Me-Not Valley awakens on the first day of Spring, still shivering from the remnants of Winter. As the last traces of snow vanish, a tender green carpet of grass emerges, accompanied by the sweet melodies of the Spring breeze that dance through the rolling hills. The villagers, emerging from their cozy hibernation, prepare to embrace another year of rural living, leaving their memories of the city life behind.

Eager faces appear one by one, breathing life into the quiet valley. Old friends exchange warm greetings as Spring’s warmth blankets them with comfort. It is a season of rejuvenation, where hopes are rekindled, and dreams take flight amidst the tranquil ambiance of Forget-Me-Not Valley.

In the corner of the serene valley, a solitary tombstone stands as a solemn tribute to the memory of an old rancher. Having toiled tirelessly throughout his years, the rancher now finds eternal rest beneath the sheltering trees. Time has cast a gentle stillness upon his once-thriving ranch, now left dormant and forgotten. Within the barn, only a solitary cow remains, its hooves echoing in the emptiness. The bovine creature chews on some hay, its patient eyes saddened by the loss of the old rancher.

On that tranquil morning, two figures make their way along the winding dirt road that leads to the village. The first is Takakura, the aging partner of the old rancher, his steps measured and deliberate. Beside him walks Vale, the son of the late rancher, his eyes alive with curiosity as he scans the picturesque valley before them.

Vale observes the gentle sway of the grass, the vibrant wildflowers dotting the landscape, and the sunlight shining through the clean air. The valley reveals itself to him like an unexplored canvas, waiting for his own brushstrokes to give it meaning. Each step draws him closer to a destiny intertwined with the land his father once called home.

Takakura, his features etched with a blend of nostalgia and anticipation, notices Vale's keen interest in the valley's beauty. With a hint of bittersweet pride in his voice, he begins to recount tales of the ranch's former prosperity—the days of abundant milk, eggs, and wool that sustained the valley's inhabitants. He shares memories of the old rancher's passion, dedication, and the harmony he maintained with the land.

As they continue their journey, the village gradually comes into view, its old-fashioned buildings beckon them forward. Takakura and Vale move ever closer to the heart of the village, preparing to face the challenges that lie ahead. Vale can’t help but contrast the vibrant village life before him with the stark realities of the city he currently calls home. The urban landscape floods his mind—the towering buildings that reached for the sky, the relentless surge of people during rush hour, and the incessant hum of vehicles that filled the air with a rancid scent.

In the city, faces blurred into an indistinguishable mass, each person lost in their own self-contained bubble. Heads bowed, eyes fixed on glowing screens, the denizens of the metropolis navigated the streets with a detached sense of purpose. The sheer magnitude of humanity coexisting within close proximity seemed to amplify the individual's isolation.

Despite the sea of people surrounding him, Vale often felt like a solitary figure amidst the urban chaos. The constant rush, anonymity, and impersonal nature of city life had become the norm. It seemed as if everyone was caught up in their own lives, their faces buried in screens, disconnected from the world around them. Despite how he feels about city life, it is the only way he knows how to live.

At an early age, Vale knew his father moved deep into the country miles away from his home. Curious to know about country life, he watched glimpses of it on TV. He had always found it dull and unexciting, with peaceful scenery and mundane tasks dominating the screen. The images showed idyllic landscapes, tranquil countryside, and people engaged in simple, everyday activities. In a way, he had always hoped his father was bored living there.

Now, as he strolls through Forget-Me-Not Valley, the juxtaposition between the city's disconnected existence and the close-knit village atmosphere struck him profoundly. Here, in this remote haven, he senses a genuine interconnectedness—a world where neighbors know each other by name, where conversations flow freely, and where shared experiences forge unbreakable bonds.

As Vale walk alongside Takakura, a bitter undertone taints his experience of the otherwise serene village. Memories of his father's abandonment resurfaces, mingling with a tinge of resentment that had settled within him over the years. The scars of his father's departure ran deep, leaving a lingering void in their relationship that could never be reconciled.

Over a decade had passed since Vale last spoke to his father, and with his recent passing, the opportunity for closure had slipped away forever. The weight of unspoken words and unresolved emotions burdened Vale's heart, casting a shadow over his trip to the valley—his father's chosen refuge.

Takakura's unexpected visit to his city apartment had caught Vale off guard. The request to journey to Forget-Me-Not Valley, to confront his father's abandoned ranch, stirred a mix of curiosity and apprehension within him. Reluctantly, Vale accepted, knowing deep down that he needed to confront his past and find his own path to healing.

As Vale and Takakura reaches the heart of Forget-Me-Not Valley, their steps slowing as they are met with a scene that defied Vale's expectations. The ranch, once a thriving hub of activity, now lay eerily silent. Vale's gaze sweeps across the barren crop fields, devoid of the vibrant greenery he had imagined. The absence of grazing animals and the absence of the familiar sounds of nature created an unsettling hollowness. It is as if the land itself had retreated into a state of hibernation, yearning for someone to breathe new life into its once-fertile embrace.

The reality of the ranch's dilapidated state strikes Vale with a pang of disappointment. The weight of its history, coupled with the burden of his own unresolved emotions, weighs heavily upon his shoulders. The ranch, once a symbol of vitality and abundance, now stands as a metaphor for his fractured relationship with his father.

“Your dad and I shared the same dream, you know. I bet he never told you. . . But I remember it all. This land you see here, your dad and I found it together. It has old, but strong buildings and some fallow fields,” said old man Takakura.

“You’re right. He never did tell me what he was doing around here. All I heard was that he moved to the boonies. How long has it been since I last heard his voice? Ten? Maybe fifteen years? It’s been so long that I almost forgot that I even had a dad,” answered Vale.

“Listen to me Vale, I understand that your relationship with Jack was. . . Complicated. But he was still your father, and I could tell you that he loved you very much. He just hated the city, and he would have done anything to take you with him.”

“Why am I here,” sighed Vale.

Takakura doesn’t answer immediately. He stands there in silence, his weathered eyes sweeping over the familiar landscape of the ranch. Memories flood his mind, harkening back to the bygone days when he and Jack worked side by side, their youthful vigor carrying them through long, challenging hours. The weight of those shared experiences rests inside of Takakura's heart, stirring a mix of nostalgia and determination.

He surveys the barren fields and feel the pulse of the land beneath his worn-out boots, Takakura's aching body reminds him of his own limitations. The toil of ranching demanded strength, both physical and mental, and he recognized that time had taken its toll on him. Yet, the flame of purpose still burned within his soul.

Deep down, Takakura desires nothing more than to see the ranch restored to its former glory, and to see Vale carry on the legacy that Jack had left behind. He knew the task would be arduous, and he harbors doubts about his ability to guide Vale through the journey. Still, the flicker of hope spurs him on, unwilling to surrender to his own limitations.

“Your father loved this ranch. We worked hard every single day for one purpose. Our dream was to pass this farm from one generation to the next. I don’t have any children to call my own. So I think it is your destiny to take on this farm.”

“Wait, me,” asked Vale.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be here to help out where I can. I may be old, but I still have some fight left in me.”

“That’s not the point. You can’t just expect me to just drop my whole entire life in the city to move into a ranch in the middle of nowhere.”

“I understand. But tell me one thing and be honest. Are you truly happy living in the city? Do you have a direction to go outside of the traditional nine-to-five job?”

“Can you honestly tell me if this is any better?”

Takakura laughs. “I know what you mean. This kind of work is not for the weak. But you are young, and strong like your father. I really think you will like farming and ranching. But before you decide, why don’t I show you around?”

With a mixture of curiosity and a sense of obligation to humor the old man, Vale decides to take a look around. Although he has no intention of staying, he felt compelled to better understand the life his father had chosen in this remote place—a life that had taken him away from his role as a husband and father back in the city.

As Vale explores the buildings of the ranch, his eyes are drawn to their weathered but resilient exteriors. The barn, coop, and shed stands as tangible testaments to the love and care his father had poured into their construction. Despite the passage of time and the wear and tear inflicted by the elements, these structures remain steadfast and durable, promising a lasting legacy for future generations.

Running his hand along the rough-hewn wood of the barn door, Vale can tell that everything in the ranch is hand-made. The craftsmanship spoke of hours spent in meticulous detail, each plank placed with purpose and precision. It is a stark contrast to the time his father had dedicated to raising him—a void that lingers in his heart.

As he steps inside the barn, the scent of hay and aged wood envelopes him. A single healthy cow chews on some hay that was placed in the trough earlier that day. Vale allows himself a moment to imagine his father's presence, tending to the animals, nurturing their well-being, and finding solace in their company. It’s a bittersweet vision—one that stirs a mix of gratitude and regret.

The coop, standing adjacent to the barn, whispers stories of mornings filled with the clucking of contented hens. The sight of it evoked a sense of the simple pleasures his father had embraced—the cycle of life, the provision of fresh eggs, and the gentle hum of nature's rhythms. Vale wonders what it would have been like to witness his father's devotion firsthand.

His gaze then falls upon the humble shed, tucked away in a corner of the barn. It holds the tools of his father's trade—an old hoe, watering can, milker, and sickle. It is a testament to the labor and dedication his father had invested in the land, the very tools that had helped shape the valley's landscape and sustain its inhabitants. Vale's heart swells with a mixture of admiration and a wistful longing for a connection that had been denied to him.

After the tour around the ranch, Takakura leads Vale out to embarked on a journey to meet the people who had crossed paths with his father in Forget-Me-Not Valley. The small size of the community makes each encounter all the more significant, and Vale found himself brimming with a mix of nervousness and curiosity.

Vale's first path leads him to the entrance of the quaint inn that stands at the heart of Forget-Me-Not Valley in front of the ranch. The warm glow of its windows invites him inside, where the owners welcome him with open arms. The innkeepers, a married couple named Tim and Ruby, emanates an air of hospitality and warmth. Their eyes sparkle with stories from the countless travelers who had passed through their doors, each leaving a piece of their journey behind.

Takakura then leads Vale to the Blue Bar, a popular gathering spot in Forget-Me-Not Valley. The bar is overseen by Griffin, an older gentleman with a welcoming smile and a wealth of knowledge to share. Alongside him is Muffy, a charismatic blonde woman who exudes confidence and charm.

Her vibrant red dress and sleek black heels evokes memories of the bustling city, reminiscent of the urban environment where he had grown up. The image of a sophisticated city secretary, navigating the busy streets with confidence and allure, flickers through Vale's mind. The contrast between her appearance and the laid-back atmosphere of the valley adds a layer of intrigue and curiosity to their interactions.

Vale's heart quickens as he notices Muffy's unmistakable romantic interest in him. While Griffin and Takakura engage in conversation, Muffy fidgets with her long blonde hair, her green eyes fixated on Vale with an alluring gaze. She playfully winks at him, her seductive green eyes sparking with mischief, and blows delicate kisses in his direction. The attention from such an attractive person charms Vale, but he remains undecided about his future plans for the valley.

As Vale ventures further beyond the bar, he discovers a collection of diverse homes nestled within the enchanting landscape of Forget-Me-Not Valley. Each abode seemed to exude its own unique character and tells a story of the families who called it home.

The first family he meets resides in a cozy cottage, their mother commuting to the city for work while striving to provide a stable life for her husband and son. Their determination and resilience shines through, inspiring Vale with their unwavering commitment to balance the tranquility of the valley with the opportunities offered in the bustling urban world.

Not far from there, an elderly couple named Nina and Galen had retired into the valley, seeking solace in its peaceful embrace. Their wisdom and rich life experiences are evident in their warm smiles and gentle demeanor. They had found a haven where they could embrace the simple joys of nature and enjoy the company of fellow villagers, their days filled with shared laughter and cherished memories.

Vale also encounters a compassionate doctor, dedicated to the well-being of the community. His selfless service and healing touch resonates deeply, reminding him of the importance of care and support in a close-knit community. Their presence is a testament to the spirit of unity and mutual aid that permeates across Forget-Me-Not Valley.

A pair of twins catches Vale's attention next, their enthusiasm palpable as they showcase their skill in creating dazzling fireworks. Their artistic talent adds a touch of excitement and wonder to the valley, their colorful displays lighting up the night sky and filling the air with awe and delight. They represent the spark of creativity and the vibrant spirit that infuse the community.

Just within sight, Vale's gaze falls upon a peculiar dwelling, a home that exudes an artist's eccentricity. Strewn about its front, metal scraps and sculptures form a chaotic display, capturing the essence of the creator's imaginative mind. The muscular middle-aged man, the mastermind behind this artistic haven, emits an air of friendliness, yet simultaneously conveys a longing for solitude. It is evident that he prefers the company of his thoughts and the creative process, consumed by the pursuit of his next magnum opus.

Finally, Vale's gaze settles on the majestic mansion atop a steep hill, where an elderly woman and her granddaughter reside. The presence of the butler hints at a history of opulence and tradition. Despite their privileged background, Vale senses a genuine connection to the valley and its inhabitants, their doors always open to welcome neighbors and share stories over a warm cup of tea. They exemplify the importance of generational bonds and the wisdom passing down through the ages.

Each encounter leaves Vale with a sense of appreciation and longing. The warmth and acceptance extended by the villagers touch his heart, as they express their hopes for him to join their community. The genuine happiness that radiates from their eyes speak of a shared desire for companionship, connection, and a future filled with shared experiences.

As Vale reflects on the diverse tapestry of lives woven together in Forget-Me-Not Valley, he feels a stir within him—a yearning for belonging and the realization that, perhaps, this community held the key to discovering not only his father's past but also his own place in the world.

As Vale and Takakura continue their tour of Forget-Me-Not Valley, they travel venturing towards the other side of the village, where more intriguing buildings and individuals await.

As Vale makes his way towards the sprawling farm belonging to Marlin and Vesta, his eyes widen at the sight of the vast crop field filled with freshly planted crops. Approaching with a sense of anticipation, Vale is met with warm smiles and genuine hospitality as Marlin and Vesta graciously extend their greetings.

Immersed in their world of agriculture, the couple graciously offers Vale their wisdom and guidance, eager to share their knowledge to support his own ranching aspirations. Their willingness to assist him sparks a sense of gratitude within Vale, as he recognizes the value of their expertise and experience in navigating the challenges of rural life.

As the conversation unfolds, Marlin and Vesta reveal that there is another resident residing on their farm, diligently occupied with their own set of responsibilities. The mention of this mysterious individual piques Vale's curiosity, igniting a spark of intrigue within him. He can't help but wonder about the enigmatic figure and the role they play in the intricate tapestry of the valley's agricultural endeavors. A sense of anticipation fills Vale's mind, eager to uncover the secrets and stories that reside within this flourishing farmstead.

Not far from the farm, Vale's attention is drawn to an imposing laboratory. The structure exuded an air of scientific curiosity, sparking both intrigue and apprehension within him. Within its walls, a scientist named Daryl devotes his time to experimenting on the creatures of the valley. His unwavering focus on unraveling the mysteries of the natural world, while somewhat intimidating, hinted at a deep passion for knowledge and understanding.

In the distance, a tent catches Vale's eye, housing a pair of archaeologists who are engrossed in the study of an ancient civilization that once thrived in the valley. Their presence reveal a hidden history and the remnants of a forgotten era. Vale imagines the excitement and dedication with which they are piecing together. Fragments of the past, unearthing stories that had long been buried beneath the surface of the village.

Takakura also mentions the arrival of a wandering salesman named Van, who makes periodic visits to the valley. Vale's curiosity is piqued, wondering what unique wares and tales Van would bring with him on his scheduled visits. The anticipation of encountering this nomadic entrepreneur added an element of unpredictability to the valley's routine, promising new opportunities and exchanges.

With each new discovery, Vale feels a growing sense of wonder and a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of Forget-Me-Not Valley. The diverse array of inhabitants and their pursuits showcase the richness of human experiences and the varied passions that thrived within the community. It was a testament to the valley's ability to attract individuals from different walks of life, united in their shared love for this idyllic sanctuary.

As the sun begins its descent, casting a warm golden glow over the valley, Takakura guides Vale back to the ranch, their footsteps carrying a sense of quiet reflection. They arrive at Jack's old home, a humble abode nestled amidst the ranch. The small size of the house strikes Vale as odd, and he finds it difficult to fathom the life his father, had led within these walls. The house can be expanded if anyone so chooses, so Vale wonders why it is still so small. He couldn't help but wonder about the reasons behind its modest size. The thought tugged at his curiosity. He came to the valley looking for answers, yet he can only find more questions.

“And I live in the house across from the storage shed,” said Takakura interrupting Vale’s thoughts. “So what do you think? Care to give ranching a try?”

“I still don’t know,” answered Vale. “It’ is a nice offer, and the people here seem nice. But I am not sure if I am cut out for this type of life. The ranch, this village; it’s a lot to take in all at once.”

“I understand. This is a big decision after all.” Takakura then looks up at the sky and continues, “it is getting late. Why don’t you spend the night to think it over? You can give me your answer first thing in the morning.”

As Vale bids farewell to Takakura, a sense of solitude settled upon him. He enters his father's house, the walls embracing him with an unfamiliar ambiance. Inside, the small space holds an undeniable intimacy, which can only house a single person comfortably.

He explores the room, noticing the simplicity of the interior design. Every item seems purposefully chosen, each serving a practical function. The house had an undeniable charm, despite its petite dimensions. Vale can't help but to contemplate the choices his father had made. The absence of signs indicating a remarriage or the presence of other children hinted at a life lived with devotion to the ranch and the valley. It became evident that Jack had poured his heart and soul into his work, dedicating himself to the land and its inhabitants.

As Vale peruses the bookcase, his fingers run over the many books that line its shelves. Handwritten by Jack himself, these books detail ranch life and animal care. Ledgers reflecting the costs and earnings of the ranch catch his eye, revealing the financial journey of his father's endeavors. The numbers show a decline as Jack's final days approached, culminating in the sale of all the animals except for the lone cow in the barn.

Vale opens the chest of drawers, revealing a collection of farming attire meticulously owned by Jack. As he examines the clothing, he notices how impeccably clean and neatly folded each piece is. The sight evokes a sense of order and discipline, reminiscent of his father's diligent nature.

Intriguingly, each drawer holds a different set of garments, specifically tailored to suit the changing seasons. From sturdy blue overalls for the laborious days of Spring planting to warm flannel shirts for the crisp Fall air, the clothing reflects Jack's preparedness and attentiveness to the demands of ranching life.

Feeling a strange connection to his father, Vale decides to try on some of the clothing. As he slips into the well-worn fabric, he discovers that they fit him almost perfectly. The clothes seem to have molded themselves to his frame, as if he has inherited not only his father's belongings but also his physical stature.

In the mirror, Vale catches a glimpse of himself clad in his father's attire. His features, although unique to him, bear a striking resemblance to Jack. The spiked brown hair, his brown eyes and round face are all traits he inherited from his father. It dawns on him that if he were to walk through the village wearing these clothes, the people might mistake him for his father, at least from a distance.

As Vale continues his exploration of the house, he stumbles upon a collection of old photographs. All of them are either of Jack, Takakura, or both. With gentle hands, he picks up the first one and is greeted by a vibrant image of his father in his younger years. Jack's smile radiates with youthful energy, his eyes filled with dreams and aspirations.

Moving through the photographs, Vale witnesses the progression of time etched upon his father's face. Each image tells a story of growth, resilience, and the passage of years. Jack's features transform, lines of experience etching themselves upon his once-youthful visage.

Then, among the photographs, Vale discovers a picture of his father looking much older than he had expected. The weariness in Jack's eyes is palpable, hinting at the toll that years of hard work on the ranch had taken on him. It's a poignant reminder that life can leave its mark, and the demands of the land can sap one's vitality.

Takakura, too, appears to age in the photographs, his own journey mirrored in the lines etched upon his face. The weight of time is evident, a testament to the years of toil and the challenges faced in nurturing the ranch.

As Vale gazes at these images, a mix of emotions swirls within him. He finds himself contemplating the nature of aging and the passage of time. The realization dawns upon him that, like his father and Takakura, he, too, will one day bear the visible signs of a life lived in the ranch.

As night settles over Forget-Me-Not Valley, Vale finds himself lying on his father's bed, drifting into a realm of dreams. Within the confines of his slumber, a vivid vision takes shape—a picture of a life he had not yet imagined.

In the dream, he envisions a loving wife by his side, her laughter filling the air as a child runs joyfully around them. It's an idyllic scene, one that feels both unfamiliar and strangely comforting to Vale. The dream transports him to a different reality, far removed from the confines of the city and its monotonous routines.

In this dream, he is not merely running the ranch to carry on his father's legacy. Instead, he sees himself embracing the opportunity to start anew, to forge a path of his own making. The weight of the city's relentless cycle—waking up, going to work, eating dinner, and going to sleep, only to repeat it all again the next day—fades into insignificance. In this dream, he discovers the importance of human connection, of building a life beyond the self-imposed confines of isolation.

It dawns on him that perhaps his father had left the city for similar reasons—a yearning for a richer, more meaningful existence, away from the impersonal interactions that defined urban life. The dream hints at the possibility that Vale himself also seeks to escape the societal constructs that stifled genuine human connection.

In this ephemeral moment of introspection, Vale contemplates the significance of his own journey if he takes the ranching job. The dream serves as a gentle reminder that life is not solely about fulfilling obligations or perpetuating the status quo. It is an invitation to break free from the confines of routine, to embrace the inherent beauty and complexity of human relationships.

As the night fades and Vale awakens from his reverie, the remnants of the dream linger in his mind, stirring a newfound sense of purpose. He realizes that Forget-Me-Not Valley offers him an opportunity to build a life grounded in genuine connections, far from the impersonal rhythms of the city.

That morning, filled with a sense of purpose, Vale approaches Takakura's house and gently knocks on the door. He can almost sense that Takakura, a seasoned resident of the valley, is already awake and prepared to receive him. As the door opens, revealing a welcoming smile on Takakura's face, Vale senses a genuine eagerness to hear his decision.

The two of them settle down, finding comfort in each other's presence, and Takakura graciously prepares a cup of morning tea to accompany their conversation. Steam rises from the cups, carrying with it a sense of anticipation and possibility. Vale takes a moment to collect his thoughts before he begins to share the stirrings within his heart.

“You’ll give ranch life a try,” asked Takakura once he hears Vale’s answer.

“I was thinking about it all night. While the city isn’t the worst thing in the world, I’ve always wanted a little more. But I just got so used to my old life, that I couldn’t really do anything about it. I’ve always found an excuse, like how will I pay my bills? What if things go wrong? I figured that since dad loved it here, it wouldn’t hurt to give it a shot. That’s all he asked of me, right?”

Takakura stays quiet, and Vale senses that something is bothering him. He can tell there's more to the story, something Takakura hasn't shared yet. It's something important that could impact Vale's decision. “What’s the matter? Is there anything else I should know?”

Takakura nods. “There is one more thing. You see, your father left a will. The will leaves you with the ranch if you so want it. But there is one condition. You see, he wants the ranch to be passed down from one generation to the next. That means he wants you to get married and start a family sooner than later.”

“Wait, are you serious? Unless you forgot, there isn’t a lot of people living here in the valley to begin with. Let alone single women willing to get married. How am I expected to get married out here?”

“Well, there was that lovely young lady named Muffy at the bar. She clearly showed interest,” answered Takakura.

“Yeah, I’m not interested. She reminds me too much of a city girl. I had my fair share of those, and I don’t plan on jumping back into that dating pond.”

Takakura thinks for a moment then continues, “well, the valley does get the occasional traveler. Many of them are single. If that doesn’t work out, Mineral Town has plenty of lovely single women. But if all else fails, an arranged marriage is always an option.”

“And how long do I have to find this bride?”

“By the end of the year.”

“What the hell,” shouted Vale.

“I know it sounds unreasonable. Trust me, I said the same thing when I read his will. But I know your father, and he wouldn’t have made this condition if he wasn’t sure you could achieve this. Just give it a shot, I will be here to help out any way I can.”

Vale lets out a deep sigh, weighing his options in his mind. There are plenty of reasons for him to turn around and never look back. The past decade has left him uncertain about his father's thoughts and intentions, and the lack of communication has fueled his doubts. However, there's a part of him that feels drawn to the village, intrigued by its charm and the opportunity to uncover the truth.

As he reflects on his own life in the city, Vale realizes that it was devoid of true happiness. It was a monotonous existence, where he played the role of a comfortable but unfulfilled robot. In contrast, the ranch and the village hold a certain allure to it, knowing that it brought joy to his father's life.

With a mixture of curiosity, longing, and a desire for answers, Vale makes his decision. He chooses to stay in the village, hoping that by immersing himself in his father's world, he can understand the choices that were made and find a sense of purpose and happiness that eluded him in the city.

With determination in his heart, Vale extends his hand and firmly shakes Takakura's, signifying his commitment to becoming a part of Forget-Me-Not Valley. The uncertainty about his immediate future, including finding a partner and starting a family, lingers in his mind. However, he trusts that the answers will reveal themselves in due time.

As Vale embarks on his journey as a rancher in the tranquil embrace of Forget-Me-Not Valley, he is aware that challenges and obstacles lie ahead. Yet, he feels a sense of purpose and hope, knowing that he has the opportunity to build a life in this serene and remote village.

With renewed determination, Vale takes his first steps into this new chapter of his life, eager to discover the beauty, the connections, and the possibilities that await him in the enchanting world of Forget-Me-Not Valley.