Author Topic: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: Whistle While You Twerk [Completed 03/05/2018]  (Read 179300 times)

Offline oshizu

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Re: Rival Cowfolks/Ayato's Tale: I Am the Heir (Two-Part Update; 10/14 new)
« Reply #330 on: October 17, 2017, 01:49:59 PM »
@PeregrineTook
I'm really happy that you enjoyed Kendall and Ayato's tales. I was rather tempted to turn their story into one of those Korean drama plots with the chaebol (wealthy, spoiled male) and impoverished, spunky, yet gorgeous female, haha. I see you are really like the word "glorious" these days. :D

@dontmindme
The reason that the Zannas turned out to be the most aggressive saboteurs, rather than the Dineros, is because of their tool kit. Vampires can pull a double-whammy: vampirism and pregnancy. As for the Dineros and Zannas buying a sixth lot, is that a real possibility? Since Momo will be born just 3 days later than the Gen5 Dinero and Zanna heirs, the Gen5 Dinero and Zanna heirs won't have time to raise and move out a Gen6 heir before Momo is ready to move out. Well, I won't know for sure until Week 9.

Purple is my favorite color, too! Well, lavender, to be precise. The retail line only faces the hardest requirements if their restaurant/store suffers glitching. Otherwise, the household needs to make lots of money to afford renovating the restaurant/store and paying for a restaurant's advertising and employees. Buying the perks just requires clicking on a customer then queuing up retail/restaurant socials to spam, hahaha. The restaurant's actually harder because we need to frequently adjust the cooking difficulty and, accordingly, the menu. I'd rather play restaurants but they are too buggy.

Thank you for your complimentary feedback on my writing. What really fascinates the most is, as you already know, the gameplay mechanics. I love discovering faster, easier ways to get things done in the Sims 4. Photo-editing is another new thing that I've grown to love this year. But I'm too excited about moving forward in a challenge to spend a lot of time staging storytelling "moments." Yes, I am guilty of very game-driven storytelling. :)
By the way, I hope you find the motivation/inspiration to pick up where you left off on your own Rival Dynasties Challenge. It would be great if, when you reach its end, you create a thread with details about each household, including their traits, aspirations, and careers. <3

Offline oshizu

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Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.82. Retail, So Tedious!
« Reply #331 on: October 18, 2017, 11:13:20 PM »
8.82. Satoshi Soma (2/3): Retail, So Tedious!

Previously:
   • Sofia gives birth to a son who is named Dexter by default then she begins studying Vampire Lore;
   • With one household vacancy, Satoshi and Erina have "make-up try for baby" of sorts;
   • After joining the Critic career, Satoshi buys the 30x20 Bargain Bend lot in Willow Creek, and names his new shop "Satoshi's Comeback";
   • By Monday morning, he has purchased his first of five required retail perks: Faster Checkouts (Large);
   • With a Gen5 Soma heir forthcoming, Satoshi is officially back in the running.


Week 8/Monday

Erina: Why are we all standing outside and why is this new house here?
Satoshi: Watchette decided that, since she doesn't feel like going all out on my store, she'd build us a house instead!

Sofia: Where's my nooboo, Dexter?
Satoshi: I was worried about that but, after I bulldozed the other house, he showed up in the family inventory.

Sofia: Good to know, but OWWWWWWW. I'm still a vampire with zero sunlight resistance, remember?

Author's note: I'm not a good builder but all of the Gallery houses with the #carlsguiderdc hashtag are one-bedroom starter homes and too small for my heirs' households.
It's completely unfurnished but I've uploaded it to the Gallery for now. Feel free to download, place, and drastically remodel. :D
Edited to Add: I need to take it down, make some revisions, and re-upload… darn it!


Erina: Wow, people strolling by can look right into our living room. Talk about no privacy!
Satoshi: Be a sport, Erina! Did you forget that I have the Love the Outdoors trait?

Bjorn: What are you drinking, dear?
Sofia: I maxed Vampire Lore and mixed a Vampire Cure for myself.


Clara: Nice work, Sofia! We really need you to help out at the store!
Sofia: Huh! And here I thought my parents would be worried about my frying in the sunlight!

Anyway, people, my vampire days are over!


Satoshi: Sadly, I'm forced to switch careers and pursue the Bodybuilder career.
Remember how I had to reach Level 3 Writing for my first work-from-home assignment?

Well, this morning I did another work-from-home assignment: "Finish writing a book."
My Writing skill hit Level 5 by the time I finished that stupid book.

Megumi Soma already claimed Writing as her unique career and I'm only a Level 3 Critic.
No way I'll be able to max my career without unwillingly maxing the Writing skill, too!


Satoshi: Clara's at work, but I take everyone else with me to Skye Fitness in San Myshuno.
I'm not at all concerned about leveling Fitness. That should be a piece of cake.

The skill that takes forever to level is Charisma! *sighs


Don: Caleb, Jung, Akira, Yukio, you--so many of you dynasty fellas are here this evening!
Satoshi:  That's odd. I never knew they were all fitness buffs!

Don: So why aren't you dressed like them, dude? What do you have to hide?
Satoshi: I ain't got nothing to hide, Don!  I, my friend, am blessed with whimsical charm.
That's why I don't need to do the shirtless-with-skimpy-shorts look.


Satoshi: By the time I open the store, it's already 6 pm!
Egads, the aprons are irresistible!


Satoshi: For some reason, our lady customers aren't as enthusiastic about the mannequins' fashion options.
We'll need to think about changing their outfits. Or maybe provide dressing rooms?

Clara: Is that gentleman really a cook or does he just want to cos-play? The outfit suits him!


Tuesday

Satoshi: We close shop at 1:30 am and finish restocking at 4 am.
We end up 90 points short for buying Serious Shopper.
Erina: Don't worry about it, Satoshi! We opened the store very late this time!

Bjorn: Can you believe Erina's in her second trimester and they're just now having their First Kiss?
Sofia: Oh Dad, don't be so old-fashioned! Anyway, things have been crazy in our household lately!


Sofia: I get my son's birthday notice at 3 am but need to wait until everyone gets home.
I give him a makeover then we switch the upstairs Kids' Room for the downstairs Focused Room.

When I phone to hire a vegetarian caterer, look who arrives: Moss Dinero!?


Sofia: Since we Bjergsens are of Danish descent, I've renamed my son Nikolaj.
Nikolaj aged up with this hair and everyday outfit. I only changed his shoes and socks.

Isn't he lovely?


Sofia: Nik has blue eyes, like Dad, Elsa, and me.
What do you call the color of his hair? Ash blonde? Or is he prematurely grey? Already!?


Sofia: Why is Olivia walking around in broad daylight when she lives in that spacious house in Willow Creek?!?
Doesn't she care if she fries? Or did she not get the memo?


Satoshi: I get promoted to Level 5 Athlete and branch to the Bodybuilder career.
Life is mocking me, I'm sure of it!

Of all the sims to wear this career outfit, it just had to be me and my whimsical charm!


Yukio: Too bad about your Food Critic career, but why pick the Bodybuilder career?

Satoshi: It has short hours, Fitness is quick to max, and Great Kisser trait is helping with Charisma.
But I'd forgotten how time-consuming mentoring fitness is! Focus, Sofia, focus!

Sofia: *pops a flirty introduction on Satoshi's great-grandfather, Yukio
Satoshi: Great, just great!


Wednesday

Satoshi: We open the store after midnight, closing soon after buying the Serious Shopper perk.

Erina: I give birth to our daughter, Momo, around 5 am. Look how cute she is, Satoshi!
Satoshi: Are you sure she's mine?

Erina: I'm not even going to dignify your question with a response! Hmmph!


Clara: Now that you've finally reached Level 5 Gardening, Bjorn, get to grafting!
Bjorn: You don't have to tell me! I can't wait to see what happens to our backyard.

Clara: I'm hoping for a small pool!
Erina: I'm hoping for a little playground for Nikolaj and Momo!
Bjorn: I'm hoping for a manly BBQ area!


Sofia: I'm leaving you to it, Erina!
I've already had my cake, showered, and milked my cowplant!  Ugh.

Erina: Thanks, Sofia! Satoshi really needs all the help he can get with his promotions!


Satoshi: Let's make a quick stop at Sky Fitness, folks, so I can work out for an hour.

Bjorn: When we arrive, my grandson Nikolaj is starving so we all head over to a cupcake stall.
Erina: Oh, I didn't realize you could buy cupcakes for a toddler to eat!
Sofia: Why can't I be at Skye Fitness with Satoshi?

Erina: Don't look now, but the cupcake vendor looks like the father of Ayato's lady love.


Satoshi: We open shop after 6 pm, so we won't have time to buy another perk tonight.
Still I want to open the store as often as possible!

Sofia: That gardener with the Evil trait comes to the shop then picks fights with us.
I'm about to ask her to leave when I get a text message from that vampire cutie-pie.

When I last saw him, he was such a charming teen that I couldn't refuse his offer to turn me.
What could he want this time?


Thursday

Sofia: View three paintings at a museum? Okay, I'll go with you but why should I bother?
Clara: Don't be that way, Sofia! You have the Creative trait so you should paint some portraits, too!

Sofia: Unless our house gets remodeled, there's not enough room for you, Erina, and me in that cramped Inspired Studio.
Clara: Stop being so negative, Sofia. And whatever you do, don't go meeting that Ayato!


Ayaka: Dude, you followed me into the restroom. Can't it wait?
Satoshi: No! *endorses product then enthuses about store

Bjorn: The four of us are spamming those retail socials as fast and often as we can! Clickity-click!


Friday

Satoshi: Fourteen hours and 37 individual sales transactions after we open, we close shop at 1 am.
I guess we could rally the troops and keep going, but we all really need showers.

We'll definitely be able to buy our fourth perk next time! Let's head home, folks!


Satoshi: My little angel becomes a toddler!
You probably haven't noticed but I'm the first Soma with brown eyes.

Here's a collage so you can see where Momo got her violet eyes.


Satoshi: In my journey as the Soma heir, I've faced one setback after another.
My future wife turned then seduced, my future portraitist Sofia also turned then impregnated, changing houses, my hasty career switch, all adults not working at the store (because of nooboo-sitting)…
May I also complain that Erina, who is a goofball, often ignores the customers to "dance with mannequin"?

Nevertheless, when I gaze at my darling Momo, I feel energized to carry on.
Momo's appearance makes all my recent trials and tribulations worth shouldering.

Sit back and watch the Somas NOT come in third place!




Current Week 8 Status: The Soma Line

Gen4 Heir: Satoshi Soma
*Completed bloodline requirements:
  Store: Satoshi's Comeback, resale value: $103,396
*Incomplete bloodline requirements:
  Retail perks (3/5): Faster Checkouts (Large), Serious Shopper, Faster Restocking (Large)
                                [needs Sure Sale and Cheaper Restocking]
  Career: Athlete/Bodybuilder (Level 6)

Gen5 Heir: Momo Soma
Status: Day 1 toddler
Toddler skills: None



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Offline PeregrineTook

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.82. Retail, So Tedious! (10/18 new)
« Reply #332 on: October 19, 2017, 08:23:19 AM »
Still Retroactive Team Sofia!!  It's nice to see that she's become such a good, if understandably moody, helper for the household.  Also, Nikolaj is adorable!!  And yes, I know there's some hypocrisy in my criticism of Erina, but I'm sticking with it  ;=)
Reading through your RDC has simply reminded me of how much I had enjoyed my retail store back when I failed at an RDC.  No real use for a store in an IDC, unfortunately, but I might have the Tooks buy one just for fun.  Maybe it would help fill the time for the immortals.
Anyway, I'm loving how all of the dynasty families are still feeling like they have a chance to compete even though we know Serena's going to win it all  ;=)

Offline oshizu

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Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.83. Momo the Speed Princess
« Reply #333 on: October 22, 2017, 03:42:05 PM »
@PeregrineTook
Sofia appreciates your support. This household took a beating from their rivals, but they are recovering and pulling through!
I'm glad you enjoy running a store. As for me, I'm just wanting to be done with it. Perhaps, I'm just too close to the end of the tunnel and have become unnecessarily impatient.
A store to entertain the elders would be a fun idea, as long as the elders stay home while the heir is at school or working. XD
Hahaha, I love how you are an unabashed member of Team Serena! <3




8.83. Satoshi Soma (3/3): Momo the Speed Princess

Week 8/Friday

Erina: Satoshi and Clara have already left for work. Elsa's at school.
I'll read to the children, Sofia, so you can catch up with your painting.

Sofia: Thank you, Erina. And thanks, too, for helping me with Nikolaj.
Once he maxes Potty, he'll be Level 3 in all his toddler skills!


Erina: I hope I can count on you to help me raise Momo, Sofia. She's so behind!
Sofia: Of course, I'll help out. Good thing that you and I both can "Give Second Wind," too!

Erina: Poor little Momo! You'll be the first and only heir who doesn't earn the Happy Toddler trait!


Daichi: I'd half expected at some point that one of the families would ask me to move in.
I guess I'm just too good at what I do. *sighs heavily


Satoshi: Today's been a great day for me so far.
After I bring home my guaranteed Level 7 promotion, The Well grants me another guaranteed promotion.

And I like how the "Mentor fitness" daily task has changed.
Previously, one had to do that daily task before every work shift.
Now, I only need to complete it once for each promotion.


Satoshi: I take my pulled  muscle and the rest of the household to the store.
Wow! Victor Feng really loves those mannequin outfits!

Victor: Would these make a good choice for Lily and me when I host my next fund-raising gala?


Saturday

Satoshi: After all the drama surrounding Sofia, the Bjergsens bring a blessing in disguise.
I had no idea that Clara Bjergsen had max Fitness.

Clara: Hey, you would have maxed Fitness last night, if you'd remembered to buy me the Mentor trait!
Satoshi: *sighs


Elsa: By now, you've no doubt noticed that this household's ugly stepsister is me!
I've finished Whiz Kid and Artistic Prodigy, but get no encouragement to finish the other two.

Sofia: Ugly stepsister? Don’t make me laugh! As if my life's been a Cinderella story… *rolls eyes


Satoshi: My promotion today grants me a work uniform more suitable for my whimsical charm.


And then The Well boosts me to Level 9 Celebrity Bodybuilder!
Not a bad way to end the week!


Bjorn: Why me? I was busy tending our garden!
Satoshi: Clara's at work, Sofia is painting, and Erina's mentoring her. Need I say more?

Besides, Bjorn, don't you feel honored that you're the last sim I'll ever mentor in Fitness?
Bjorn: Eh, I was already at Level 8…


Satoshi: As much as I'd love to go to the store tonight, we're going to stay home.
I want to focus on Momo now, since she only needs two more levels to age up.

Of course, we've had to completely ignore two of her toddler skills.

Momo: Are you sure that was an apricot, Papa? It looked like a peach to me!


Satoshi: That's it, Momo! Keep yakking at your plushies! You can do this!

Elsa: Oh look! My shoe actually made it into the screenshot! Whoopee-doo!


Satoshi: Her last needed skill is Thinking, so I take her to the kitchen to Watch me bake her birthday cake.
By the time she's ready to age up, she's about to crash and burn.

Erina: Quick! Add her to the club and rally the troops!


Momo: I can't believe Watchette only gave me a makeover for my everyday outfit.
Satoshi: Well, if things go right, Momo, you won't have a chance as a child to wear any other outfit, anyway!

Momo: Yes, sir! I plan to be a teen by Sunday evening.
Does that make me only one day behind, Papa?




Final Week 8 Status: The Soma Line

Gen4 Heir: Satoshi Soma
*Completed bloodline requirements:
  Store: Satoshi's Comeback, resale value: $103,396
*Incomplete bloodline requirements:
  Retail perks (4/5): needs Cheaper Restocking
  Career: Athlete/Bodybuilder (Level 9)

Gen5 Heir: Momo Soma
Toddler skills: L5 Communication and Thinking; L3 Potty
Child aspiration: Artistic Prodigy (just started)

Offline PeregrineTook

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.83. Momo the Speed Princess (10/22 new)
« Reply #334 on: October 22, 2017, 04:59:11 PM »
Oh my gosh!  Momo's an adorable child!
Poor Elsa.  And poor Sofia who totally deserves her chance to be Cinderella.  Of course, this would generally be the point that I say I'll make sure she gets that roll in my next story, but that didn't exactly work out for Candy when I'd made that bold statement earlier in this dynasty  :=)  Anyway, Retroactive Team Sofia!!
Now that he mentions it, I am kind of surprised that no household picked up Nanny Daichi.  I mean, bare minimum, it would have been a great way to prevent the other households from benefitting form the only good nanny in town.  Hooray for sabotage!
The Somas are really making an impressive comeback.  Of course, the Serena family will still win, but it's nice that the Somas will feel good about themselves as the fight it out for second place  ;=)
Another lovely update!  I wonder how many more we'll have before you make it into the HoF...

Offline sdhoey

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.83. Momo the Speed Princess (10/22 new)
« Reply #335 on: October 22, 2017, 08:14:26 PM »
OMG!! I love her name, MOMO, which show is it from?

Offline oshizu

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Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.84. Ayato's Advances
« Reply #336 on: October 23, 2017, 09:02:27 PM »
@PeregrineTook
   I totally cracked up regarding your self-reflection on how promising Candy Behr a better life in your own story turned out for her, lol. She and Summer did get lots of screen time, considering they weren't even part of the household, though, so there's that!
   The reason I never let the Somas (who first discovered Nanny Daichi) move him in was that I feared another equally wonderful nanny wouldn’t appear. If I were to put one nanny out of population, would the game then generate a new third nanny? Would you know? I was too scared to try it!
   Yes, Momo is really cute! Now I'm wondering why I tortured myself these past months by insisting that the toddlers be either Top-Notch or Happy Toddlers!

@sdhoey
Thank you for liking her name. It means "peach."
In the Soma line, all the heirs and many of their spouses are named after characters in the manga/anime "Food Wars" (Shokugeki no Soma). Momo is named after Momo Akanegakubo.
If you click here to jump to my "Meet the Contenders: Restauranteurs" post for the Somas, you'll see an image of Momo Akanegakubo at the very bottom of the post.



8.84. Ayato Zanna (1/4): Ayato's Advances

Previously in Week 7:
   • The Gen3 Zanna household consists of Vitoria (Gen3 heir), her spouse Jung Storey, their teen son Ayato, Vitoria's twin Laura, Paola Pizzazz (portrait painter), Masato Yamaguchi (vampire bro), and Bella Goth.
   • Vitoria easily completes her remaining bloodline requirements;
   • Ayato is mentored in Writing by Arun Bheeda but vetoes novels to opt for a Handiness-based museum collection instead;
   •  Laura discovers a new strategy for painting portraits that requires minimal posing by the subject;
   • While turning offspring for his Vampire Family aspiration, Ayato succeeds to "Offer to Turn" Erina, even after his father Jung failed;
   • Laura celebrates her teen birthday then asks Alfonso Dinero to be her boyfriend;
   • While raising his vampire rank, Ayato completes all his move-out requirements by Saturday evening;
   • Ayato leaves behind his parents and Paola and forms a new household at Hillside Highlands, consisting of Masato, Bella, Laura Zanna and Alfonso Dinero, and Masato's son Makoto.


Week 8/Sunday

Ayato: We are most happy to be able to begin our Week 8 not long after midnight, for a change!
First of all, allow me to introduce our household's new additions.

That's my son Ruki on your left and Auntie Laura's daughter Poppy on your right.


Ayato: You may recall I turned six offspring last week and trained Kendall on that fateful Saturday.
Since it's dark out, I invite and train two other offspring, easily completing my Vampire Family aspiration.

Turning humans who are already your good friends saves so much time!
Also, Vampire Family only requires the Master Vampire rank.
Nevertheless, I still need to reach the Grand Master rank to buy my two Tier-Five powers.

But tonight, I exult in my newly-acquired 100% Sunlight Resistance!


Ayato: As you've already heard, Watchette's made a few missteps with assigning careers.
The career switching has resulted in changes in teen aspirations due to overlapping skills.

But we recently learn that Ruki will be doing Nerd Brain, which has nothing to do with his museum items.
On the bright side, both Masato and Alfonso have maxed Logic and can mentor Ruki.

Masato: Let's leave the garden to Bella and get started on the rocket ship for Ruki, Alfonso.
Bella: Gee, thanks!


Ayato: When I spot Bella go out the front door, I follow her outside for "the talk."

Bella: I don't understand, Ayato. You seriously think you could do better than me?
Ayato: It's not about "better" or "worse," Bella. I will never love you.

Bella: But what about our son? What will people think?
Ayato: For all intents and purposes, you are publicly my wife but we will never marry.
Anyway, you're too busy chasing after Grandpa Massimo to care about me, aren't you?


Ayato: I still need to earn another vampire rank. Would you be so kind as to spar with me?

Bella: It's your childhood sweetheart, isn't it? You think I'm going to let you off so easily?

Masato: Ayato, Ayato, Ayato. Were you sleeping during your English lit classes?
Do you not remember the famous words of William Congreve (1670-1729)?
"Heav'n has no rage like love to hatred turn'd / Nor Hell a fury, like a woman scorn'd."


Ayato: Good evening, miss. My name's Ayato Zanna and you are?
Leticia: My name's Leticia Mixon. You must be the great-grandson of my master Serena.

Ayato (internally): Very nice! She's "only" a fledgling vampire whereas I'm a Master Vampire!


Ayato: You must be thinking that I look quite ferocious here.
Truth to be told, I lost three spars to Bella and lost the first spar to Leticia. That's 4/5!!!

Just when I think I'm in the zone, though, the sun comes out and Leticia runs off.
Admittedly, I'm more of a lover and schmoozer than a sparrer and dueler!


Ayato: The Well granted me a full promotion soon after the Big Switch.
This time, it grants me a guaranteed promotion, though my performance bar doesn't budge.

Anyway, I choose to work from home so my garden plants have some time to grow.
I'll write that letter first.
 

Ayato: I check in on Bella because I'd asked her to prepare food for when our son ages up to a toddler.
She is driving me batty, Ayato! She has to stop and eat everything she cooks, even though she's not hungry.
After.every.single.dish!
I have to watch her constantly to make sure she's actually cooking!


Masato: Let's just go ahead and hire a caterer. We can afford it now!


Ayato: After writing that letter, I check the progress of my cause: World United.
Things are looking very bleak but that's only because I've never actually worked yet.

Protest at a bar, protest at a bar….where shall I go? I know just the place!


Caleb: It's always such a pleasure to see my favorite great-grandson…
Ayato: Your one and only great-grandson, I might add!

Caleb: Details, details! What I want to know is why have you invited me to a bar at 8:30 am?


Ayato: I 'm here today to protest the Shrieking Llama Bar's discriminatory practices!
There's a night for aliens and ghosts, even for knights and bears.
Why no Vampire Night?  Why!?

As the promoter of the World United cause, I demand equal treatment for vampires!
Vampires deserve a bar night of their own, too!

Laura: Are we supposed to join in Ayato's protest or just watch?
Alfonso: I'm not sure, but he is family, you know!


Ayato: Thanks for helping out, people!
Alfonso: You'd do the same for us, Ayato.

Ayato: Laura, please try to look angrier! We are protesters here, not cheerleaders!


Ayato: After the protest, I spend a little time introducing myself to potential voters and promoting my cause.
Good morning, ma'am. My name is Ayato Zanna. May I interest you in supporting my cause?

Clara: Oh, so you're the young man who, as just a teen, managed to turn Erina and Sofia!
My name is Clara Bjergsen and I'm…
Ayato: Don't tell  me! How did I never know that Sofia had an elder sister?

Clara (internally): I can certainly see his appeal…


Clara (enthralled): So what can I do for you, Ayato? Would you like to turn me?
Or may I offer you my social security number and bank account password?

Ayato: Uh, no, Clara. I would just like you to support my cause and give me your vote when the time comes.


On a whim, Ayato decides to play Kendall a quick visit, leaving the rest of the household behind.

Ayato: What's wrong, Kendall? Why are you doubled over in pain like that?
Kendall: It's nothing, Ayato. My stomach is unhappy with the spicy food I ate at Korma Chameleon for lunch today.


Ayato: I stopped by to see how you were and to offer you vampiric training.
Kendall: I'd like that! I want to be able to daywalk someday, just like you!

Ayato (internally): I briefly consider proposing to Kendall, but her father walks in.
When I propose, it must be a special moment! Now is neither the time nor place!


Father: You must be the young man my daughter's been talking about. It's nice to finally meet you, Ayato.
Ayato: Mr. Kendall, I…

Father: Let me speak first, Ayato. My wife and I never gave Kendall the loving home environment she craved.

I don't care that you're a vampire and that you turned Kendall.
I don't care whether you're rich or poor.
All I ask is that you cherish her and give her the family life she's always wanted.

Ayato: I promise to do everything in my power to make Kendall happy, sir.
My hands are tied for the next two weeks. But when I'm free, Kendall will want for nothing.


Ayato: I spend the rest of day implementing my new system for boosting not only my vampire rank but also my charisma and political support.

Typically, I start out with "Detect Personality" followed by a self-introduction.


 I choose the "Promote Cause" social next, then end with "Share Vampire Knowledge."

Fortunately, there's a lot of sims strolling in our neighborhood throughout the day.


Monday

It's just past midnight when I detect the personality of Malcolm Landgraab.
And that's what finally boosts me to the rank to Grand Master!

Of course, Masato trained me whenever he could but I didn't need anymore sparring or even a single duel.


I rush home to buy a bar and mix a Draught of Reconfiguration for myself.


No, dear readers, it's not repetitive to watch me mix and drink a Draught of Reconfiguration!

Just think! This is the last time anyone in this particular Rival Dynasties Challenge will drink one!
It's a milestone moment, folks!


I purchase Tamed Thirst and Immortal Pleasures as my two required tier-five vampire powers.

Note that I've given up Vampire Creation but added Garlic Immunity.
I mean, who knows which garlic-warded homes I'll need to visit in pursuit of support for my cause?




Current Week 8 Status: Zanna Line

Gen4 Heir: Ayato Zanna
*Completed bloodline requirements:
   Aspiration: Family Vampire (done)
   Two tier-5 vampire powers: Tamed Thirst and Immortal Pleasures
*Incomplete bloodline requirements:
   Career: Politician/Politician (Level 3)
   Garden (2/6 plants): needs Dragonfruit, Cowplant, Sixam Mosquito Trap, and Deathflower

Gen5 Heir: Ruki Zanna
  Status: Bassinet burrito



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Offline PeregrineTook

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.84. Ayato's Advances (10/23 new)
« Reply #337 on: October 23, 2017, 09:54:09 PM »
I think you accidentally posted the same image twice when you introduced Leticia.
Ayato's "I'm a schmoozer, not a fighter" line was quite wonderful.
When Bella makes all the food and eats it, does she instantly run off to throw it back up?  That's what Izumi used to do and was why the Took toilets always needed to be cleaned (sigh).
Silly Ayato, Laura's skill is in looking lovely, not angry!  The protest about no Vampire Night was glorious!
Is it wrong that as soon as I saw that Kendall was having tummy issues I started fangirling internally thinking that an Ayato/Kendall boo was on the way?

Offline sdhoey

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.84. Ayato's Advances (10/23 new)
« Reply #338 on: October 23, 2017, 10:11:25 PM »
@oshizu I figured it had to do with a food manga. Momo from Bleach came to my mind lol

Offline dontmindme

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.84. Ayato's Advances (10/23 new)
« Reply #339 on: October 23, 2017, 10:38:33 PM »
Go, Zannas, go! Hmm...well, I think there are some high valued microscope prints but now I am pretty curious as to what the collection items will be. The Zannas have to secure their victory, after all. Also, I might be working on posting stats and strats for my RD. Good luck with the big finish, everyone.

Offline oshizu

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Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.85. I'm a Political Man
« Reply #340 on: October 25, 2017, 09:25:32 PM »
@PeregrineTook
Thanks so much for pointing out that I'd posted the same image twice! I fixed it as soon as I read your comment.
Poor Ayato! I couldn't believe how poorly he fared with the vampire sparring. Luckily, it's possible to reach Grand Master without any dueling at all, provided one starts training early and often.
Bella doesn't have a withered stomach so, no, she doesn't throw up what she eats. I'm sure she does it just to annoy me, including eating food in the Baker's Display Case intended for the toddlers when she's not even hungry.  Masato is a glutton with a withered stomach, on the other hand, so he constantly wants to cook, eat, and vomit. The gluttony drives Masato; I'm not sure what Bella's problem is.

@sdhoey
You and your son might enjoy the Food Wars anime. My friend and his wife both watch it along with their junior high-school son. Thanks to the anime, the son has developed an interest in cooking already! I love that show!

@dontmindme
The Zannas come up third in the rotation so they'll have the advantage of knowing the final museum worth of the Dineros and Somas.
I'm excited to hear that you'll be sharing your stats and strats. The more, the merrier!



8.85. Ayato Zanna (2/4): I'm a Political Man (Get into My Big, Black Car)

Monday

Ayato: There's not really much I can do in the middle of the night in my neighborhood.

After working from home on Sunday, I didn't get my guaranteed promotion after all.
And since I can't secure votes yet, all I can do is promote my World United cause.

So I promote my cause to every vampire roaming our hood, making new acquaintances along the way.


Alfonso: I'm trying to raise my parenting skill, Makoto. Will you work with me?

Makoto: Of course, Uncle Alfonso. I love the attention!


Ayato: Just think, Ruki!
By the time you're a toddler, you might have four adults who can give you a second wind!

I won't be one of them, though, because I need to focus on my career first, little fella.


At 7 a.m., I choose to work from home then finally receive that guaranteed promotion.
Talk about luck! The Well grants me a full promotion to Level 5 so I branch, of course, to Politician.

I'm waiting until Masato gets home from school, though, before we all head out.


Finally, Watchette decides to build me my own office.
When I go to check the progress of my cause, however, the option is unavailable.

I wonder if my progress resets now that I've chosen the Politician branch. Or is that only for the Charity Organizer branch?


Ayato: And this is the conversation during which Alfonso and I reach Level 5 Parenting.

Alfonso: Once Laura's Parenting dings Level 5, Ruki will have five adults who can give him a second wind.

Masato: Instead of using the computer or skill books, the three of us spammed the "Give Parenting Tips" social on each other.


Makoto: Cool! I've been wanting to start the Rambunctious Scamp aspiration!
But aren't the Magnolia Blossom and Desert Bloom Parks much bigger? Why here, Papa?

Masato: I'll explain to you when you get older, son.


Laura: I've been wanting you to start The Curator aspiration, Alfonso.
Alfonso: Yeah, so have I. But is this the best place to start?

Laura: I've never visited this area.
Alfonso: Me neither, but there's a surprisingly large number of dig sites!

Laura: You think we'll ever get to go to Korma Chameleon to dine?
Alfonso: Eh, why bother? The menu's changed so we're better off learning to cook Indian food ourselves!


Ayato: For a father who's supposed to never be home, why is he always here when I visit?
Eh, I seize the opportunity to promote my policies and secure his vote!


Ayato: I've stopped by today because Kendall's stomach pains yesterday have me worried.
I click on her parents' double bed, secretly hoping that the "Try for baby" option will be greyed out. It isn't. *disappointed

Oh well, my father taught me never to start what I can't finish.


Father: This is so awkward! Maybe if I turn up the volume on the TV?


Ayato: I have a work-from-home assignment to protest at the gym so here we are in Windenberg.
Laura: What are we protesting in the name of World United this time?

Alfonso: What about vampire-friendly blinds on all this gym's windows?
Masato: What about complimentary Plasma Janes to attract vampire clientele to the gym?

Ayato: I'm thinking a daily water aerobics class for the pregnant, both female and male.
Masato:  Oh dude, you've got it baaaad!


Ayato: Just as our protest is winding down, we get our nooboos' birthday notices.
We rush home as fast as we can to age them up.

Obviously, that's my son Ruki on your right and my cousin Poppy on your left.


Ayato: Father will be happy to see that Ruki inherited our eye shape and color!

Bella: Where's my toddler portrait?
I'm sorry but that would have involved reloading a new game and using an age-down cheat.
For a non-heir, Bella, you're one of the luckiest sims in this challenge!


Bella: How so?
You've ended up with three children and two grand-children, two of whom are Gen5 heirs.


Laura: Our little Poppy is so adorable, though she doesn't really resemble either of us at this point.

Alfonso: But don't you think she has my lips and eyes?
Laura: And with my skintone and chin, perhaps.


Tuesday

Ayato: Around 2 am, I finally max my Charisma skill so no more skilling for this vampire!
On a hunch, I slip away to make another visit to Kendall, this one very brief.

Uh huh, it wasn't the spicy Indian food after all!


Makoto: Doesn't Nanny Daichi ever come to this house, Papa?
I need to work on this project, but Nanny Imane and her dramatic stories are super annoying!

Masato: Sadly, we can't control which nanny comes when we hire one, son.


Bella: Will Ruki only be maxing three toddler skills like the Soma toddler?
Ayato: Of course not! We aren't so desperately behind that we need to take shortcuts.
Ruki will only age up once he's earned the Happy Toddler trait.

Bella: But the challenge rules only require Ruki to max Potty and two other skills. Why the extra time and effort?

Ayato: Because we vampires can't buy reward traits, Ruki will benefit from the skilling boost that Happy Toddler grants.
His rivals will no doubt be buying the Morning Sim and Night Owl traits.


Ruki: I love doing things with Papa! He can move at super speed, which is totally cool!

But sometimes Papa seems really sad when he looks at me. I don't know why.


Bella: What a cheeky little girl! Poppy becomes sad due to her potty accident.
But when I go to "Soothe" her, she has the nerve to reject my hug!

Poppy (internally): I blame Auntie Bella for her poor potty guidance!


Ruki: Before leaving for work, Papa phones the Founder and invites her over.

I can't really interact with her yet except for "Show toy" and "Talk to Stranger."


Makoto: I know nobody really cares since I'm only the son of two helpers, unrelated to the Zannas.
Still, I wanna share that I completed the Whiz Kid aspiration today by bringing home an A!


Ayato: Today is the very first day that I actually worked at the office!
My work-from-home assignment had included "Promote Cause," which I couldn't complete.

Thanks to Masato's aromatherapy massage, however, I manage to max my performance bar and get promoted, anyway.
Note that my daily task is already complete, because my boss counts all votes I secured before the promotion!

And when I visit The Well next, I receive a full promotion to Level 7 Councilperson. Thanks!


Ayato: While I'm outside securing votes for my next promotion, I spot a co-worker in front of my parents' home.

So, Victor, you've been a politician much longer than I have. May I ask you a professional question?
Victor: Sure, go ahead, Ayato. I'm always glad to help out a colleague.

Ayato: Will I also have to wear those weird medical-intern slippers someday? Oh, and thanks for the vote!


The day is not yet over, but I'm closing this update with a shot of Poppy in her pjs.
She's been awoken by a nightmare and is inconsolable.

Still, she refuses to be comforted, neither by Masato nor even by her mother or father. Is this typical behavior for an Independent toddler? So not kawaii!






Current Week 8 Status: Zanna Line

Gen4 Heir: Ayato Zanna
*Completed bloodline requirements:
   Aspiration: Family Vampire (done)
   Two tier-5 vampire powers: Tamed Thirst and Immortal Pleasures
*Incomplete bloodline requirements:
   Career: Politician/Politician (Level 7)
   Garden (5/6 plants): needs Deathflower

Gen5 Heir: Ruki Zanna
  Traits: Inquisitive
  Toddler Skills: L2 Communication, Imagination, Potty, and Thinking; L1 Movement

Offline PeregrineTook

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.85. I'm a Political Man (10/25 update)
« Reply #341 on: October 25, 2017, 10:08:09 PM »
Hooray!!  The Ayato-Kendall boo is on the way!  I'm so excited!
Poor little Ruki.  He can see how sad his daddy is. 
Serena made a guest appearance!  I was so happy  :=)  Of course, I was doubly happy since we also got in some Laura time.
Your dynasty is getting so close to finished!!  Have you already planned the celebratory party Serena's line will throw when they win?  ;=)

Offline oshizu

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.86. Ruki Rocks On
« Reply #342 on: October 27, 2017, 08:00:26 PM »
@PeregrineTook
I'm also super excited about the Ayato/Kendall nooboo, but also feel a little sad for Ruki. Maybe he'll want to move out with Ayato and Kendall later?
I knew you'd enjoy seeing the shots of Serena and Laura, so I ended up taking quite a few to select the best two, lol.
Not to count my chickens before they hatch, but…I thought up the title for the final update this morning, hahaha.



8.86. Ayato Zanna (3/4): Ruki Rocks On

Tuesday

Ayato: After I secure Geoffrey Landgraab's vote, I spot my very favorite vampire in the neighborhood!

Glad to see she's a Minor Vampire already, I offer her more vampiric training.


Kendall: Why did you invite me here, love? This place is deserted!

Ayato: Exactly! And why can't I ask about your due date or ask to feel our nooboo?


Ayato: Kendall, I lost my heart to you that day I found you crying in the park.
My life as the Zanna heir is quite complicated at the moment, but would you marry me?

Kendall: I was wondering when you'd get around to asking me, baby boy! YES!


Wednesday

Ayato: What a surprise when Kendall jumps into my arms! She is sooooo heavy!
But I think I hide my shock and dismay quite well, wouldn't you agree?


Kendall: I know you're crazy busy these days, but I'd been feeling insecure about the future.
Ayato: Once we Zannas have won this challenge, I'll be all yours, Kendall. Where do you want to live?


Masato: Dude, get out of bed. What are you sulking about?
Alfonso: I just saw Geoffrey Landgraab kissing Laura's hands in the hallway!

Masato: Oh, so that's why you have the Drifting Love moodlet. You've got it all wrong!
Alfonso: How so?

Masato: Didn't you see Laura got angry at Geoffrey? You should have kicked Geoffrey's butt!
Instead, you slink away and sulk like a three-year-old. Get it together, man!


Ayato: The Well has been so incredibly accommodating lately that it almost scares me.

It grants me yet another full promotion to Level 8 Representative. This career is a breeze!


Ayato: Ruki asks me to feed him in the high chair, which we have just in case.

Grab a plate for yourself instead, Ruki boy, so I can read you a story!


Bella: You're probably wondering why you don't see much of me these days.
Watchette is angry that I'm constantly eating the food prepared for the toddlers.

That's why I'm locked up in my room whenever I'm not being the dynasty drone.
Eating is even a banned club activity, Bella! Why do you keep doing it?

Bella: I don't know. Hey, did I tell you my Gaming skill is Level 4, just from playing on my phone?

I couldn't stand it any longer. Bella constantly takes food out of the Baker's Cousin Display Case.
She's not even hungry! And she has dozens of plasma packs and 99+ plasma fruit in her inventory.



Ayato: You've been so helpful with your maxed Wellness skill, Masato!
You're always there for my pre-work massage and Wellness socials!
Masato: Hey, that's what I'm here for, Ayato!

Makoto: What about me? I've come to set the club vibe to Very Confident!
Ayato: I'm glad you live with us, too, Makoto!


Alfonso: Hey, you know how an adult with the right skill maxed can mentor children in Mental or a musical instrument?
Masato: Right! And a child seems to learn Creativity faster when encouraged by an adult with maxed Painting, too.

Alfonso: Since you and I have max Logic, do you think Ruki learns Thinking faster from us?
Masato: I don't know. Do you think your Mentor trait works with toddlers?


Bella: Ugh, this life!
People think I lead such an exotic life but I spend most of my time either gardening or playing games on my phone!

I'm starting to think that life with Mortimer wasn't half bad.
What has Mortimer been up to lately? Hmmm, should I give him a call to chat?


Ayato: I need to remember to top off my thirst before leaving for work!
I was this close to another promotion but I got so thirsty that I had to stop working hard.


Laura: Poppy is the last of 23 toddlers raised during this Rival Dynasties Challenge!

Maaike Haas' daughter counts because Erina was adopted as a toddler.
Ulrike's daughter doesn't count because Jun was already a child when she was adopted!


Bella: Oh, burn! Wait till Ayato finds out that Kendall's taken up with Masato!

Check them out sneaking through those bushes together.


Ayato: Finally, an orchid has blossomed! You probably think I'm making a big deal out of nothing!
But "someone" put this plant in the family inventory for a whole day, thinking it was wolfbane.

I wonder who would have done a dumb thing like that? *coughs innocently


Ayato: I really appreciate your giving Kendall a Fertility Massage, Masato!
Kendall: How I would love to give birth to twins or triplets! But isn't this spot a little too public?

Masato: Too bad we don't know your approximate due date so we could time this better.
Ayato: Oddly, I still can't ask about her due date or to feel her tummy!


Thursday

Ayato: You still need a little over four levels, Ruki. I'm thinking you'll age up early Friday.
Ruki: Four! Friday!

Ayato: Now, let me show you a magic play trick before you go to bed.
Ruki: Papa, it feels like my legs are attached backwards!

Ayato: I told you it's magic, didn't I?


Bella: In an attempt to escape being locked up, I volunteer with Masato who's off from school today.
What about a beach clean up? I'm not sure vampires would be welcome at a soup kitchen.

Masato: This cute girl sees me drop a load of trash but I decide to pick it up and continue clean up.
And she actually comes over to help me out! How cool is that?


Ayato: Hello, young lady. What are you doing in my neighborhood? I'm Ayato Zanna.
Momo Soma: So you are the vampire my household is always going on about!!! I'm Momo Soma.

Ayato: Well, I guess I'm flattered they still care about me. So what do you think, Momo?
Momo: Eh, you're not all that, dude!

Ayato: Oh don't be like that, Momo. I'm quite a likable fellow. And you should meet my son Ruki when he's older.
Momo: Why am I even letting him hug me? Why am I smiling? And why do I suddenly want to meet his son?


Kendall: Masato invited me over for another massage while you were at work. He said you'd asked him, too, so thanks!
Ayato: Oh, I can finally ask you your due date. And…may I feel our nooboo?

Kendall: I can't stay long but would you give me vampiric training before I go?
Ayato: Sure, sweetheart. And thank you for giving me my 20th (and last) vote!


Don't you like your new outfit, Bella?
Bella: It's all right.

So you don't like it? Is that why you've dropped your action queue 4 times in a row?
Bella: Why am I always downstairs? I even volunteered with Masato three times today.

Because when you're on the first floor, you scarf up all of the toddlers' food for no reason.
Bella: Have you ever considered that I might be stress eating? *sighs and rolls eyes


Friday

Masato: There's not much for me to do anymore.
I don't know any children I haven't already befriended, so I can't complete Social Butterfly.
There's no fishing in this neighborhood, so that's out, too.

Since my birthday's not for another 6 days, I've been trying to raise my Empathy.
Not bad for the helper kid of helper parents, right?


Ayato: It's 3:30 am and you only need one more level in Thinking to age up!
You rock, little Ruki!



Ayato: What do you say, fellas? Shall we max out Ruki's Thinking now, without letting him sleep?
Masato: I'm game, Ayato. Let's do it.
Alfonso: I'll help, too, just in case the Mentor trait makes any difference.

Ayato: All right, let's call this update a wrap and meet back for Ayato's birthday!

Poppy: I’m not at all jealous Ruki gets two mentors! And that's because I'm…
I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T, do you know what that means? (Thanks to Webbie!)




Current Week 8 Status: Zanna Line

Gen4 Heir: Ayato Zanna
*Completed bloodline requirements:
   Aspiration: Family Vampire (done)
   Two tier-5 vampire powers: Tamed Thirst and Immortal Pleasures
*Incomplete bloodline requirements:
   Garden (5/6 plants): needs Deathflower
   Career: Politician/Politician (Level 9)

Gen5 Heir: Ruki Zanna
  Traits: Inquisitive
*Incomplete age-up requirements:
  Toddler Skills: L5 Imagination; L4 Thinking; Level 3 Potty, Communication, Movement

Offline PeregrineTook

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Re: Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.86. Ruki Rocks On (10/27 update)
« Reply #343 on: October 27, 2017, 08:14:54 PM »
Oh goodness!  Poppy is so sassy!  It's rather adorable.
Bella's new outfit is super-nice!  Is she getting all dolled up to try to rekindle the fire with Mortimer?  I mean, we all know she can't compete with Kendall, and she's certainly not on par with Serena and Laura, but she looks lovely enough to win over Mortimer (for a second time).  Seems like Geoffrey Landgraab shares my opinion.  Laura just might need to put some hurting on the old man if he doesn't watch himself!
It's so exciting to see that you're getting so close to the successful end of the dynasty!!  You're doing a great job!

Offline oshizu

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Rival Cowfolks in Newcrest: 8.87. A Prolonged Pregnancy
« Reply #344 on: October 29, 2017, 02:23:15 AM »
@PeregrineTook
I admit that I made a mistake in judgment with Bella. She doesn't really fit in with the Zannas and she dislikes the role of dynasty drone, lol. She needs to be The Queen. So, I'm trying to think of what her happy ending would be.
Yes, poor Poppy shares the fate of her mother Laura. No toddler gets as much attention as an heir does.

Haha, Geoffrey Landgraab! I was just checking all the sims and noticed that Laura was throwing out red plus signs at Geoffrey who'd tried to kiss her hands just as Alfonso walked into the room.



8.87. Ayato Zanna (4/4): A Prolonged Pregnancy

Week 8/Friday

Ayato: I'd planned to work from home today but accidentally choose to go to work.
Ruki is so close to being ready for his birthday and I wanted to be home for that.

Masato: *recommends self-esteem exercises, offers mental relaxation tips, and gives heartfelt compliment


Ayato: I feel terrible about missing Ruki's birthday!
Masato: You've only got two more ticks until your last promotion, Ayato.
Focus on your job, man. The rest of us will look after Ruki!


Masato: Hey! Why do you sit down to read there when Ruki's about to age up!? Get that book out of the way!

Bella: Huh?


Masato: Happy birthday, Ruki! Congrats on earning the Happy Toddler trait!
Bella: Ruki ages up with the Cheerful trait and Artistic Prodigy aspiration.

Masato: What are you looking so grumpy about, Bella?
Bella: Pfft, I know I'm only in this shot because Ayato's left for work!


Ruki: Well, this hair is not bad but what's with this loud, uncouth shirt?
Masato: Haha, that shirt is probably for bowling, Ruki.

Bella: Ruki's eyes may be green like Ayato's but they're shaped like mine!
He also has my bigger lips.


Bella: Makoto's teacher phones to say he made an inappropriate drawing and caused an uproar in class.
Masato: Why did they call you? I'm his father and my Parenting skill is maxed!

Bella: Maybe because I volunteered three times with Makoto yesterday?
Anyway, I told his teacher that we encourage creativity here, so Makoto wouldn't get punished.
Masato: Thanks, Bella.


Bella: Masato, you seem more in the loop than I am. May I ask you something?
Masato: Sure, go right ahead, Bella.

Bella: I can see why Ruki learned Thinking for his teen aspiration of Nerd Brain.
But what's the point of his learning Imagination and choosing Artistic Prodigy?

Masato: Oh, you noticed that? That, my dear, will be unveiled next week!


Bella: Hello, Mortimer? It's me, Bella. How have you been?

And the children? And how are the grand-children?

I'd love to meet them, but you'll have to invite me during your week. I'm kinda busy right now.

Who me? Oh, I'm doing okay. I've just been thinking of you lately, that's all.



Ruki: Papa finally gets home so I can get a makeover. I hated that yellow shirt!

Laura: You are slaying this aspiration, Ruki! You'll be done by late tonight!

Ruki: Thank you for taking a day off to help me, Auntie Laura!


Masato: What are you doing out here, Ayato?
Ayato: I just thought I'd try to get in better shape.
It was embarrassing to lose to Bella and that Leticia when I sparred with them.

Masato: I know what you mean, bro. I've started jogging everyday myself.



Kendall: Thanks for offering me a fertility massage, Masato.
Masato: No problem. I told Ayato that if he invited you over, I'd give you another massage.

Ayato (whispers): Whoa, she's huge, Masato! Why hasn't she gone into labor yet?
Masato (whispers): You're asking me? Haven't you been counting the days?

Ayato: Apparently, I don't know to calculate the due date for a townie sim.
I'd thought she'd conceived soon after The Big Switch when our week started.

I guess she really did have indigestion from the Indian food after all!


Alfonso: Nice! Ayato's treating us to a midnight meal at Korma Chameleon!

Ayato: Actually, no. Kendall lives here right next door.
I wanted to see her home before we all head out.


Saturday

Ayato: By the time we arrive at Desert Bloom Park, it's exactly midnight.
Laura: Why are we here? Why not the Casbah Gallery in San Myshuno?

Ayato: Because Ruki only needs to play for five hours and max Creativity; he doesn't need to max Violin.
Laura: Well, he started playing around 11 pm so he should finish Artistic Prodigy around 4.

Ruki: Did you see this violin, Papa? Uncle Alfonso crafted it just for me!


Poppy: Sheesh, what does it take to get a little attention around here?
Finally, Uncle Ayato remembers I exist and comes to teach me Numbers.

Ayato: Your mother's mentoring my son Ruki and your father's cooking you something to eat.
You don't mind learning from your Uncle Ayato, do you?


Ruki: I complete Artistic Prodigy around 5 am. I'm ready to age up!
But instead, Makoto and I invite all the children he doesn't know already to the park.
He finishes Social Butterfly and I've made a bunch of good friends, including the founder!

Uncle Masato lights the candles on the cake he baked and brought from home.
It's time for me to become a teenager!


Ruki: I'm hurt that everyone starts walking off before I do my birthday leap.
But then I realize that someone has died!

Bella: That's Lio Zanna, the founder's son and Massimo's twin brother.


Ruki: After I finish ageing up, I immediately fly in bat form to the covered room.
I'm now a Cheerful Music Lover with the Nerd Brain aspiration.

Papa, can you tell when I'll be having a makeover?
Aren't these denim shorts and cowboy boots from one of Watchette's dance extravaganzas?
Arrggh, and this hair!

Ayato: We can't do anything until the Grim Reaper is done reaping Lio, son.
At least, you're safe from the sun here, Ruki.

Masato: And you two can avoid the 12-hr Sad +2 "In the Presence of Death" moodlet.


Ruki: We finally get home around 8 am. You know I'm dying for a makeover, but first things first!

I join the Fast Food career then consult The Well who guarantees me a promotion next shift!


Serena: Congrats, Ayato! Your position as this challenge's best-looking male sim goes unchallenged!

Bella: That's odd! Ruki has Ayato's eyes and my thickish nose but whose lips are those?
He actually aged up with your lips which looked beyond awful.
So, I used "Change Sim" to quickly replace his huge mouth with a thinner mouth.


Serena: Sorry, Ayato. I guess she wasn't such a great genetic donor after all!
Ayato: Eh, kinda too late now, don't you think?

Ruki: Hey, hey, people! I'm standing right here!


Laura: Do you have a moment to pose for me, Ruki? I just need two poses.
Ruki: Only two?

Laura: Yeah, one in your normal form and one in your dark form.
With my recently patented method, I'll be using the two portraits as reference to paint higher-value portraits.

Ruki: Patented, eh?
Laura: You know it! Our rivals can't use this method or I'll sue!


Ruki: Reading three books for Nerd Brain feels like it's taking such a long time!
I'm a Music Lover, so I should listen to music on my earbuds while reading.

Alfonso: How'd you get those earbuds!? I want a pair, too!
Thanks, Watcher. These are way cooler than listening to the speaker right in front of me!


Ruki: Papa, I'm getting bored just sitting and reading.
Ayato: You don't need to complete a vampire aspiration, but would you like training?

Ruki: Yes, please. The sooner I get full sunlight resistance the better!
Ayato: I doubt if you'll have time to achieve that by the end of Week 9.


Ayato: Leaving Ruki to finish his third book, I head back to the yoga mat.
And that's when I notice my heart strolling by.

My darling Kendall, you look positively stunning tonight and so…not pregnant!
Kendall: I'm pretty sure I'm glitched. If your watcher hadn't repaired her game, I'd probably still be pregnant.

Ayato: So how are you? I can't believe you gave birth to twins!
Kendall: When are you going to come meet them, Ayato?

Ayato: Ruki just had his birthday this morning and tonight's The Big Switch.
So sorry, but not this week. But I'll definitely visit with Ruki in Week 9.
I'd like you two to get to know each other.


Laura: No museum-worthy portrait yet today but I'm just getting started!


Ruki: Well, I'm about ready to make The Big Switch, Papa!
Thanks to Alfonso's excellent mentoring, I'm going to whizz through Nerd Brain!

Alfonso: Darn Skippy, I'm an excellent mentor!




Final Week 8 Status: Zanna Line

Gen4 Heir: Ayato Zanna
*Completed bloodline requirements:
   Aspiration: Family Vampire (done)
   Two tier-5 vampire powers: Tamed Thirst and Immortal Pleasures
*Incomplete bloodline requirements:
   Garden (5/6 plants): needs Deathflower
   Career: Politician/Politician (Level 5)

Gen5 Heir: Ruki Zanna
  Traits: Inquisitive;
*Completed move-out requirements:
  Toddler Skills: Happy Toddler (L5 Imagination and Thinking)
  Childhood aspiration: Artistic Prodigy (done)
  Good Friends: Serena Zanna; Nobuya Yamaguchi, Ritvik, Srivastava, Shaurya Nair
  *Incomplete move-out requirements:
  Teen career: Fast Food (Level 1)
  "A" in high school: "C"
  Aspiration: Nerd Brain (Tier II of IV)
  Skills: Logic (Level 4) and ? (Level ?)
  Portraits (2): $0 (normal: $, dark: $)
  Collection (7):
  Enemies: (Dinero and Soma)


Coming Next: A recap of Gen4 and Gen5 accomplishments plus what's to come.

 

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