The Snow Immortal Dynasty - Chpt 17: Now There Are Two Kinds of Snow

[Antalia]

The Snow Immortal Dynasty

Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Roommates Without a Room (This post)
Chapter 2: Renegade Gardener (July 9, 2013)
Chapter 3: Indoors, at Last! (July 13, 2013)
Chapter 4: Brave New Looks (July 13, 2013)
Chapter 5: Heir Time (July 13, 2013)
Chapter 6: What's That Sound? (July 13, 2013)
Chapter 7: Everything New (July 14, 2013)
Chapter 8: Best Birthday Gift, Ever (July 14, 2013)
Chapter 9: Face the Cake (July 15, 2013)
Chapter 10: Quiet, at Last? (July 18, 2013)
Chapter 11: It Was Special, All Right! (July 19, 2013)
Chapter 12: Big Enough for Big Questions(July 22, 2013)
Chapter 13: Lost (July 22, 2013)
Chapter 14: Misery (July 27, 2013)
Chapter 15: Ultimate Party Crash (October 31, 2013)
Chapter 16: Adventures of Elizabeth Meade, MDS (November 25, 2013)
Chapter 17: Now There Are Two Kinds of Snow (February 10)

Chapter 1: Roommates Without a Room

Cast of Characters

[1] America (Snow) – Dynasty founder. Traits: Family Oriented, Green Thumb, Ambitious, Workaholic, Schmoozer.
[2] Agnes (Crumplebottom) – Sunset Valley resident. Traits: Hopeless Romantic, Grumpy, Loner, Frugal, Bookworm.
[3] Christopher (Steel) – Sunset Valley resident. Traits: Great Kisser, Angler, Natural Cook, Daredevil, Friendly.
[4] Sophie (Steel) – Christopher Steel's dog. Female. No known traits. Black-and-white; blue left eye; brown right eye; very fluffy.


Hi, everyone! I'm America Snow. I'm sorry if I'm looking a little downcast today. I have a feeling I've done all this before, but it did not go so well that time. I hope it was just a bad dream.

You're reading this because I've learned about immortality, and I've decided I must have it for myself! So, here I am in Sunset Valley, at the edge of the huge, empty lot I just purchased at 15 Summerhill Court, embarking on my amazing lifelong project. I have no home, and no possessions but my clothes, my cell phone, and my wits--and there are 1800 Simoleons burning a hole in my pocket!

What I need is courage. And some help. But I don't know anybody in this new town! I took a cab to the park, hoping to remedy that.

The park was totally empty! It must be too early in the day. Well, I'm only going to apologize for all that follows once: You cannot become immortal without breaking a few eggs!

The first thing I need is a lot of money. So I walked until I found a house with a really nice car outside. I rang the bell a few times, and finally met the owner. She has a pretty strange name: Agnes Crumplebottom. She's dressed all in black because she is a recent widower, and not very happy.

Well, I'm kidding about not knowing anyone! It's technically true, but I thoroughly background-checked everyone in town before I came here. I picked my targets carefully.

And hey, don't tell anyone that! It'll ruin my image--and I'm going to live a long time if I get my way!

Agnes needed to do something upstairs. So I wandered around in her house, looking in awe at her lovely things. She is so rich! I began to daydream. But then I snapped out of it. I can waste time when I'm immortal!

So I barged upstairs. And I used my special charm to get right under Agnes' thick skin. I joked and told stories, and said all kinds of things she wanted to hear. Pretty soon, I was like an old friend to her.

I decided to lure—I mean, to invite, my new friend out to the park. Invite, invite. I've got, umm, fishing lures on the brain.

Well, some friend of Agnes was waiting on her stoop, but Agnes didn't even give her a glance. I'm the only friend she needs, now!

At the park, we kept chatting, and soon Agnes hugged me. We really were like old friends!

I decided she was ready to hear about the immortality. It took quite a lengthy explanation. I let her somewhat suggest what her own role might be. It's better when they think it's their own idea.

And so I asked her to move in. She looked a bit askance for a while, but then she accepted!

Agnes also agreed to let me control the household funds. So, I immediately sold her house and new car. City taxes pay for public transport in Sunset Valley—so, why not! With all the money, I went to the library to use a public computer, and bought the local hospital outright! This is an investment that will pay off for all the foreseeable future!

So I had about 1800 Simoleons remaining—just like when I started the day!

It was getting dark. I walked around to public places and private gardens, harvesting fresh fruit and vegetables. Really, the whole town is participating in the immortality project. Most of them just don't need to know it!

Since I don't know anybody who has a spare bed or even a couch at the moment, I spent a good chunk of my money having a small bed delivered to my lot. I just left it by the curb, and went to sleep there. I don't plan to make this a habit!

Agnes: Today has been like a whirlwind. My new best friend, America, doesn't have a house, that poor girl! Who would have guessed! Well, she said she had a great investment plan for us.

...Wait a minute. Whoa. Hold on!

In one day, I have met a pushy woman, become her best friend, agreed to move in with her...and turned over all my money and property to her. Then she said she was homeless, and suggested I spend the night at my sister's house...

No. This is not positive thinking. It will be fine. I just need some sleep. Cornelia!

My sister Cornelia Goth and I are best friends, but that doesn't mean we have an easy time getting along. She's in her nightgown. It's pretty late--I woke her up. I hope she'll let me stay over. America really wore me out.

I sort of told Cornelia some of what happened--just some of it. She is very unhappy with me. There was some criticism. It might be accurate.

But she let me spend the night.

When I woke up, I really needed to freshen up. My sister Cornelia is pretty weird about people using her bathtub. I decided to risk it.

As soon as I climbed in, she barged into the bathroom and shouted at me to get out. Darn this old house—you can hear water in the pipes everywhere downstairs. Well, I got out.

Cornelia was in a mood. I had some dry cereal, which she also begrudged. She decided to slowly bake waffles from scratch for herself. I didn't say anything—I could tell she needed a moment. I just meekly washed up, in the meantime.

I tried to apologize, but Cornelia gave me the silent treatment. She hushed me while she ate her waffles. Then, she hushed me while she washed her dishes. And finally, she hushed me and went into the downstairs bathroom for a long time. I waited outside for a while. Eventually I knocked at the door. “Cornelia?” There was no answer. I went in, and finally she let me apologize.

She also told me to get out. Well, it's probably best.

My therapist is always telling me I need to focus on the positive. I got a call from the school after I left the Goth residence. I was asked to make cookies for a bake sale! That's fun! I bought a recipe book with the debit card America gave me—it wasn't rejected! I went to the library to study the recipes. Soon I was a master of cookie-baking.


America: Let's look at the bright side. There is perhaps no better way to wake up, than to the warm Falifornia sunshine. It's a beautiful day. The sky is clear and blue, and I smell the sea. The world is beautiful, and I have a guaranteed income. I heard the mailman come by a moment ago.

I got up and planted two seeds I'd found yesterday. This was my first gardening exploit on my own property!

I got dressed and went to the park, to seek my next target. I mean, to seek another helper. A helper!

It's a good thing the portfolios for my background checks came complete with full-color photographs! Here he is—Christopher Steel. I recognized him all the way across the park!

Christopher is young and does not have many skills, but according to his profile, he is talented. He'll be a perfect addition to the project.

We did not hit it off. I bored Christopher, and Christopher bored me. The conversation really became a bit of a minefield. But I persisted.

Then I got Christopher talking about fishing.

But soon the conversation fell flat again. It's probably because I don't know the first thing about fishing. While we were talking, some Sim came up and was staring at me intently. It happens sometimes.

Finally Christopher and I got to talking about storms. I like storms. I told Christopher a story about a thunderstorm I experienced in real life. I embellished the details a lot, since he seemed to be enjoying it!

I was starving and all the picnics at the park had been cleared. I phoned Agnes to make dinner—I'd had some cooking appliances and a generator delivered, with the money already made from my hospital investment. And, I invited Christopher over to see my big lawn! I had not quite told him about the immortality yet. I didn't feel he was going to go for it. Yet.

Nothing is indoors at 15 Summerhill Court. (I will spare your eyes.) We're going to live out in the Falifornia sunshine for a week or two, as Sunset Valley hillsimmies.

I was a little nervous about sleeping under the open sky by the curb again. So, when Christopher left, I followed him home. Then I asked very sweetly if I could spend the night.

Christopher has only one bed in his house. So, naturally, I just climbed right in, and let him worry about where he'd sleep.

Christopher: Uggh. What am I doing? This girl is so bossy and persistent. I don't like her very much. I don't think she likes me much either—so why is she hanging around? She stole my bed! I stayed up all night playing with my dogs, but now I need sleep, badly!

This is so uncomfortable.

America: Uggh! Christopher just did something awful to me!

I got up and was hungry, right? So I found his dry cereal, and made myself a bowl. As I was about to dig in, he barged over and told me I was a guest, and to please not eat his food without his permission! He said this whole thing was very awkward.

Yeah, it sure was awkward! I smiled my most charming grin, though, and said pleasantly, “Christopher, may I please eat this bowl of cereal I have made?”

And he replied, “No!”

He looked so self-satisfied! “Seriously?” I asked.

“Seriously. Do not eat my food. I'm putting my foot down,” he said.

… Uggh!

He seemed pretty intent on holding his ground. What could I do? I set the cereal down. He shoved past me, toward my ex-breakfast.

And now he is sitting out on the deck, eating my cereal! I can only see the back of his head, but his posture looks so smug!

Well, I'm going to hang around. I think Christopher will start to regret what he did, once he gets toward the bottom of that cereal bowl.

So I went back inside and played with Christopher's dog, Sophie. He actually has three dogs, all litter mates. Sophie is grown, and the puppies are Tiffany and Bella. They are all black and white mutts, and pretty cool. The puppies were asleep--I'll show them to you next time!

[Antalia]

Chapter 2: Renegade Gardener

New characters

[1] Tiffany Steel – Family puppy (mutt). Traits: Loyal, Genius. Littermate of Steel dogs.
[2] Bella Steel – Family puppy (mutt). Traits: Neat, Genius. Littermate of Steel dogs.
[3] The architect - Antalia (author of the story, not shown). Designer of fences.

Agnes: I decided I wasn't sleeping in that outdoor bed of America's, though she offered. I'd rather face my sister again. The house was dark when I got there, and I started to think twice, but then the lights came on.

Cornelia let me in without a word. She brought me upstairs, and told me I had slept in her son's bed last time I was here. I'd barely ever been upstairs in her house, and didn't realize she has no spare beds! So I slept in her room with her.

In the morning, we sat in Cornelia's study and read our books in silence. Actually, I think she said two sentences to me since I arrived last night.

I read for a few hours, but was not really enjoying my book. This situation is uncomfortable. Last night Cornelia asked again if I realized I had joined a cult.

I think that if America were going to steal my money, she wouldn't have been at 15 Summerhill Court when I went back there yesterday. She wouldn't have bought me a new stove and fridge, or asked me to make dinner for her and her friend. America is a little odd, but she's no cult leader!

I thought about telling my sister about the immortality, but I suppose it would convince her that I have joined a cult. And, not telling her will probably accomplish the same... Huh.

I closed my book and decided to leave--right after quietly raiding the empty kitchen for a little breakfast. I will get Cornelia some groceries this week, since she's sensitive about her food.

I really need to talk to America about grocery shopping. I don't think she has much of a mind for practical things.

America: After Cerealgate, I left Christopher's house with as much grace as could be expected, considering that he'd “put his foot down” and eaten my breakfast. He did not apologize. I am sore about that. I am not sure if I still want to bring him into my project.

I went to the science center and scouted it, and nobody was around. So I harvested their garden for my morning meal. Well. Actually, a local horse was around, and he did not like my presence in the garden. He shoved right through the gate and started kicking and rearing. He did a number on one of the apple trees.

I wasn't in the most rational mood after Cerealgate. I ignored the horse. Perhaps that was unwise, but I am still in one piece now--and I walked off with a knapsack of fresh apples and grapes on the vine!

I really enjoy renegade gardening. It helps to clear my mind.

Ha! These fools' bush is so high, that they can't see me harvesting their garlic plant! Check it out!

Gah! I was wrong. I hopped straight into this cab that happened to be there, as all the ladies came running out of the house, hot on my tail!

Next I went to work in a garden down the block, which has a marvelous, huge blind spot. But the owner soon came around the corner in an aggressive posture. Maybe the bush ladies had warned him. I knew I should have gone somewhere further away. Well, I know what's good for me—I ran and hailed a cab!

I also shared some produce with the cab driver for helping me out, of course.

After all the gardening, I calmed down a bit about Christopher. Really he's just bold, like me, and talented, and I need bold, talented people. I think he will still be useful to my project. So, once my cab had dumped the pedestrian senior citizen who was running after me, I got out and phoned Christopher to meet me at the park.

Fortunately, Christopher is very suggestible! Maybe he regrets Cerealgate.

We met and talked about a very safe subject this time: favorite colors. Everyone has one!

So we stayed on safe subjects from there, and then I told Christopher about the immortality. He was intrigued. I may have accidentally let him think that he would have the immortality too, which is, well, outright false! It's not my fault that he didn't do his research or ask the right questions, though!

I invited him to move in and let me take over his finances, and to bring his three dogs. I explained this was a necessary part of the immortality. Technically that's not true--but it's close enough. He accepted!

This outdoor living and the dogs are starting to give me allergies, or something.

Here are Christopher's two puppies, Bella (left) and Tiffany (right) Steel. The easiest way to tell them apart from Sim-height, is that Tiffany has a blotch of white fur on her right side.

Agnes is a painter and has started working on painting a portrait of me. The portrait is very important for the immortality project. A consultant told us to make sure and light the subject very well for the initial shot, and recommended using garden lights that point upward, right at my face. Otherwise, the painter could be tempted, against her better judgment, to paint my somewhat dark-skinned self as a featureless black blob! Well, this consultant's advice was the best ever! Here is our very first portrait attempt, which was a test run executed during an evening sunset! This will probably hang in the house someday—we'll use a better one for the immortality project.

My bargain-bin architect designed that fence to protect the desk, chair, and easel from having the dogs chew them. I'm not sure she's really an architect, but her rates are unbeatable. Well, she said this fence projects a force field that keeps out children. She thought it would probably work on dogs, too. It turns out that she was right! I probably won't tell her that, in case she increases her rates.

A sad-but-happy day came. I got so busy with gardening, and my “career” (I make files, and coffee reports, or something like that) at the local office building, and working on my modeling to produce a good portrait, and making Christopher go out and fish for the immortality project (that didn't take much effort)--that I totally forgot it was Agnes' birthday today. She was really absorbed in painting a portrait looking out over the beach, and I think she forgot until night, too. Agnes celebrated her birthday all alone at the back of our lot. Well, at least it was a lovely view...

I feel pretty bad about it. I will make it up to you, Agnes.

Sophie has dug up a gigantic space meteor. This was related to some kind of skill Agnes has been teaching her. Geomancy or something—sniffing out rocks. I don't know how Sophie tugged this thing home, as it weighs hundreds of kilograms, but I'm not asking questions! Agnes says it's a rare alloy, and should be worth a lot of money.

I often have intriguing conversations with my boss, Thornton Wolff, in all sorts of locations. I'm showing you the back of his head, here, because I'm a bit tired of looking at his face. Don't tell him.

Don't tell anyone this, either--but my job seems to be to just suck up to people and do whatever seems helpful at any moment, which I admit I'm pretty good at. I get promoted quite often. Good thing the company uses a magnetic org chart--it seems like every time I go in, I get promoted to a new spot in the hierarchy! I don't make much money, though.

Tiffany (top) had her adult birthday the day after Agnes did! Now she is a big girl. Her fur isn't as long as Sophie's. Soon Bella (bottom) grew up, too.

We've been living outdoors a little longer than originally planned. There has been a bit of a challenge with the dogs waking us early, with barking and the squeaky chew toys. I think we will have the builders come and put up the house after another week. We're just a bit short on funds at the moment.

I bought Agnes a good bed, and Christopher and I are time-sharing a second one to save money. He sleeps while I'm at work, and fishes all through the night and dawn while I sleep. It's working out well, although it's a little strange to sleep in sheets that smell slightly of someone else.

[Antalia]

Chapter 3: Indoors, at Last!

America: On Sunday, Agnes read about a chess tournament in the week, at Mayview Glen park. She told Christopher about it, and they thought it would be really fun to mix it up and join the tournament together! It turned into kind of a dare, and neither of them wanted to back out.

Neither of them even knows how to play chess!

They tried to get me to do it too, but I have my gardening and work performance to worry about. I am starting to take my job more seriously. I promised I'd come and watch later in the evening.

((I apologize for not giving Agnes and Christopher new looks yet – I do get to it eventually.))


On the day, Agnes and Christopher were the first to arrive at the chess tournament. Undaunted by the empty park and their near-complete lack of chess knowledge, they registered for the tournament. Then they located the park's only chess table, and started a game together! Fortunately, they had looked up the rules on Simipedia using my laptop the night before. Afterward, they said they thought they remembered most of them.

There was a lot of stumble-bumbling around on the chess table. Progress was very slow. To win a prize, a contestant had to win three games. Agnes and Christopher realized they might not even finish three games before the end of the tournament at 10pm—and certainly nobody else was going to have a turn at the only chess table!

Finally, Christopher won the first game, and then the second! He and Agnes finally looked up from the table, and noticed there was a bit of a crowd, which was making Agnes incredibly anxious. She really hates crowds. Christopher asked the crowd if anyone had seen me, but nobody had. He decided I had gotten lost in my gardening.

But actually I was watching from a hill nearby, and was just busy schmoozing up to my co-worker Iliana Langerak.

Finally, just before 10pm, Christopher won the third game, and was crowned winner of the chess tournament! He and Agnes had a lot of fun and look forward to the next one, although Agnes does not look forward to being in a crowd again. She felt the advantage of being unconcerned about the crowd won Christopher all his games. She showed good sportsmanship in keeping that to herself, though.

I note I am no longer wearing casual or semi-casual clothes to work. I'm too high, and also too low, in the org chart for that now! (Also, my garden's doing well!)

The dogs have picked up a somewhat bad habit. Well, Bella has. Sophie and Tiffany tend to sleep on the two big beds with Agnes and me, but Bella scorns the little spare bed. Bella has taken to sleeping near the mailbox and harassing the mailman whenever he comes. We have tried to scold her for it often, but she is crafty and often eludes us, and so it hasn't done much good.

We're still living outdoors, and now my old excuse for not letting the builders come, is wearing quite thin. I've gotten a bit indecisive about what I want from my architect, and I can see that earning more money will help ensure I can build my dream home. I've moved back the deadline for the house-building and will be purchasing a property first, to ensure a stronger income.

We bought a bathtub in case we had to give anybody a flea bath, due to all the outdoors-time. But Sophie promptly one-upped us by purchasing a Pet Hygienator (far right), using her dog magic. The Pet Hygienator is quite an unnatural object, but it's a lot better than the bathtub. Sophie has been digging up a lot of strange artifacts as well.

I bought the Old Pier Beach park and remodeled it, which gave it a sort of Mediterranean-meets-Western feel. It wasn't entirely what I was going for, originally, but when I got there I liked it—in parts.

I am now a vice president in my organization, and still living outdoors. It's okay—I've decided the builders are coming today!

I have made a lot of friends in town, especially within the business community. I was recently elected Governor of Falifornia by write-in! I was really surprised. I turned the position down, though. It's probably a pay decrease, not to mention hard work--and I am just getting comfortable!


Agnes went to the library to read, and the builders came and went as Christopher slept in the bed on the front lawn for the very last time! As was somehow anticipated (and yet, not)--the build cost more than I thought it would! Here is our basic floor plan and a view of the front. We just have a basic wooden floor and walls inside, for now. We'll hit our decorating and landscaping budget goals in the weeks to come.

The roof is temporary and the more I look at the siding, the less I like it—so it's probably temporary, too. All sides of the house are missing things from the original plan, due to financial constraints.

My architect got overzealous in the bathroom with some cut-rate Roman silver tiling. I'm very unsure about it (and the floor), but we're going to leave it this way for now. I thought I told her about alternating different patterns in on some walls, but apparently she wasn't listening! Well, she's cheaper than the alternatives...

I've placed that somewhat frightening orange portrait of myself in the (unfinished) foyer. Someday, this room will be decorated to match it, I think.

Here is our partly finished dining room. I can't decide whether that portrait overlooking things is creepy, or amusing. It's a good place to hide a security camera, either way.

I'm moving up in the world. There will never be a reason to own a car, because I'm now important enough to ride around in a limo for the rest of eternity. (Never mind that I can't afford to decorate most of my house! Hehe.)

Christopher and I actually sat down for dinner at nearly the same time, for once. I was catching up with him, and also trying to teach him to smolder, while we ate. It was perhaps not the best time. He's not quite got it down, yet. The important thing is a willingness to learn.

We have hung my final, gorgeous young adult portrait in our immortality museum, which is currently masquerading as a small, unlit garden shed on the back of our lot. When three walls have a portrait on them, we plan to expand it. We just don't have the money yet. (Sorry for the darkness—we couldn't afford a light! I'm blowing too much money on dry cleaning and stuff—I really should stop gardening in my work suits.)

Tragedy or hilarity? The dogs have taken to peeing on the (unfinished) porch, and other dogs come and play in the puddles! We must discipline them better.

Bugger! I've reached my adult birthday and was so engrossed in my garden and thoughts about work, that I forgot to throw the party. Christopher and Agnes were terribly busy, too. This happened once before, for Agnes' adult birthday. We will throw a huge bash for Christopher's birthday next week, to help make up for it!

[Antalia]

Chapter 4: Brave New Looks


The morning after my birthday, a magnificent horse came and drank from our pond. Perhaps it is a good omen.

Being an adult isn't always barrels of fun, I'm learning. I've never learned to cook, and I always got away with it before. But the day the horse came, Agnes and Christopher ate all the leftovers and then left the house for the day, without leaving me anything to eat for dinner. I had to eat a microwave meal. Maybe I should hire a chef...

The next day, I told Christopher how I think diamonds work. It was great to finally share my theory and get it out of my system. Science and geology are not my strong subjects--but I'm quite sure I'm correct anyway.

I met my co-worker Nancy Landgraab at the park to give her some vegetables I'd grown. I was so tired, my wave turned into a yawn. I was also pretty smelly. Nancy didn't mind—she's great.

I'm not giving Agnes and Christopher a dresser (which will allow them to change clothes!) until the house is at least mostly decorated. This should be a good incentive to decorate.

I designed the upholstery for this couch, which is probably tacky, but I'm in love with it. (The mess of wall coverings in the background is not staying!)

We have a new paperboy. I was gardening in my underwear, and he came up to the fence and pointed and laughed at me. I probably should not garden in the front yard in my underwear. I've been working so hard, between my plants and work, I feel like a zombie most of the time.

There was a meet-and-greet at the dog park today. I piled into the limo with Tiffany and brought her. Nobody else brought any dogs except Agnes, Christopher, and me! That was a bit disappointing.

I tried to walk Tiffany home, because Christopher was telling me that dogwalking is a solid way to build a relationship between pet and owner. He walks the dogs often. But Tiffany got tired and kept stopping to sniff at things on the sidewalk. I finally picked her up and walked until my chauffeur met us. I think I'll leave the dog-walking to Christopher in future.

While Agnes slept, the interior decorators came. I told my architect we will revisit that floor in the future. Agnes also soon changed out the harsh lightbulbs.

Sophie really loves the new furniture in the living room. She particularly loves to hop up on the chair. (That is another temporary wall mess in the background...sorry!)

I have been promoted to the very top and I've decided to try doing my hair differently, just for work. I look more like a power broker this way, I think. And I am still living in a mostly-unfinished house. Well, that's my life.

My architect is suffering designer's block, or something, and so I bought Agnes and Christopher dressers and haircuts as a present, on the day of Christopher's adult birthday--even though the house is obviously not decorated.

Christopher bravely did all the party invites, because I was really busy doing catch-up in the garden. It was a formal-attire party starting just before sunset. We invited Agnes' relatives, our repairman, and tons of my co-workers and friends to fill in the rest of the guest list. It was a very senior crowd. Christopher hardly knew anybody, but there's only one way to fix that!

The guests thoughtfully brought tons of food, of all different sorts. On the table are tofu dogs, cobbler, dim sum, and French toast. While everyone else gathered around the cake, Mortimer Goth was in his own world, doing a peanut-butter-jelly-time dance to our loud pop music in the dining room.

Maybe I should have helped Christopher to smooth down his hair a bit before the party, but my plants needed me. Well, at least that birthday cake was almost as good as it looked!

Clark Sauer (in the unmissable green pants) has one of my favorite formal men's outfits I've possibly ever seen, from the waist up. He had some pretty cool dance moves as well—he's clearly in a different circle from the rest of us. I wasn't sure about inviting him, but I'm glad I did in the end.

He was first to leave, shouting, “Awesome party guys, thanks for inviting me, gotta go!” really fast, and rushing out the door. I caught him on security camera making a face at the ongoing wallpaper project in the living room on his way. Maybe I'll hire him to help with the interior design!

Everyone got cake and brought it to the dining room, but there was soon nowhere to sit, and Sandi French had to eat her cake standing up.

Agnes' sister Cornelia (bottom right) and Nancy Landgraab (left) wore matching jackets and tops to the party. Who would have guessed those two shop in the same places!

Nick Alto and Nancy—my neighbors on either side--flirted and did some intense, almost-dirty dancing (top left). They seemed to be having a really great time together.

Agnes was soon overwhelmed by the crowd in the dining room. She picked up a big stack of dirty plates as an excuse to go to the kitchen. I felt sorry for her.

Agnes did the dishes as the party in the dining room roared on without her.

As soon as it wasn't too impolite, Christopher sneaked outside to fish from the stocked pond.

Iliana Langerak stayed the longest. She started cleaning the house about halfway through the party, and went at it for hours. She cleaned all sorts of things we never knew were dirty, and put away all the dog toys. The last thing she did before she went home, was to take the squeegee to a fresh puddle of dog pee on the porch! We woke up to a nice neat house the next day because of her efforts—and the dog smell on the porch was noticeably reduced!

Thornton Wolff, my old manager, had been invited to the party, but he didn't show up until hours after it ended. Agnes and I were sound asleep when he arrived, but Christopher was fishing in the front yard. Christopher is a bit paranoid about peeping Sims, and the discussion may have become slightly heated.

Agnes woke early the next morning and had a little cry in the living room. Perhaps it was because we are not rich, or because we waste money, or the awful wallpaper situation, or all of the above. Oh—I bet that's Game of Thorns on tv behind her. Well, who could blame her?

This is Agnes' new everyday look. She needed glasses, anyway, so we tried something totally new.

[Antalia]

Chapter 5: Heir Time

America: Christopher and I were playing a game of America's Next Top Sim again today. (Modeling has really gotten to my head, due to all the ups and downs of having my portrait painted.) Christopher can smolder like a fiend now, when he wants to. (I'm really not sure about his new hairstyle, but he says he likes it.)

I have been thinking about having Christopher help me to create and raise my heir. It's part of the immortality project.

On the one hand, Christopher and I have had some seriously uninteresting and frustrating times together, and we do not always see eye to eye. I will also probably never forget the time he told me I could not have breakfast at his house, and then he ate the cereal I made. He is still unapologetic about it.

But on the other hand, I have learned over the past months that Christopher is very reliable, and seems to enjoy being told what to do, which is helpful considering my personality. And I feel a bit attracted to him. It helps that he is quite attractive as well.

He knows that an heir has to be made, and I think he also assumes I will ask him. He has implied it in conversation before. Well. I'm not getting any younger, and that is where we stand.

Honestly, I had hoped to be dramatically swept off my feet, but the sort of person who could do that for me is probably not one that would hang around for long.

I'm planning to tell him all this tonight and see what he says.

But for now, our little game of America's Next Top Sim got heating up on its own. (Was there something in the fruit juice at breakfast?) I confessed my attraction to Christopher, quite sloppily, and got an amorous hug in return. This did not go as planned. But I went with the flow from there, sort of...

I couldn't think of what to say. So I told him a very dirty joke. I wasn't sure how he'd react, I realized halfway through it. At times, he seems to have no sense of humor...

Well. I survived.

Then I got melted by his eyes.

The time was right, I guess. I kissed him.

Christopher: She kissed me. That was surprising!

And then she asked if I'd be her boyfriend. This got serious, fast. But really, I've been her boyfriend all along, haven't I? I think that was always her plan for me. If I didn't like it, I could have gone.

This woman is a force of nature. I don't think anyone could ever own her. But she is mine, at least for now.

I suppose I knew what would come next.

America peeked over her shoulder at Agnes, who I suddenly realized had been working very hard at the computer across the room all this time. Then America brought her voice to a whisper, and asked me if I would help make the heir.

Agnes: I don't know what just happened over there. At least the book I'm writing is going really well.

Christopher: I think this was a good idea... I wish I knew it was.

[Antalia]

Chapter 6: What's That Sound?

America: Attempting to create an heir was much more fun than I thought it would be. Of course, I'm not sure that Christopher sees me as a human—he seems to regard me more as some kind of mythical creature. Well, if he thinks I am a goddess or an animal, I suppose it only helps my image. Really, I am as much a goddess as anything. I'm going to become immortal, after all!

The next morning was not the best. I was delivering some produce to Thornton Wolff at the office on my day off, and we were having a chat, but I really, really didn't feel well. I even got kind of off track while I was talking, and said something pretty strange. I don't remember what it was. I tried to shake off the sick feeling, but finally I couldn't handle it anymore.

Thornton got away from me like I had the plague. Well, maybe I did.

Oh, Sim. I've never been this sick before, and it had to be at the office, too! I shouldn't have had that lemon-lime dessert last night.

Well. My chauffeur was driving around the block. I started walking to the corner to meet him when I realized...

My body had possibly been invaded. I might be converting food into a Sim—my heir!--as I write. Immortality, here I come!

I was away from the house for thirty minutes, and look what I have come back to! (Aside from the known problem of “unfinished kitchen”!)

At first I thought it was a fire, but then I realized it was just a mess. Otherwise Agnes would probably not still be tapping away at the keyboard.

“Christopher!”

He was nowhere to be found. Well, I cleaned it up for him. He's cleaned up lots of stuff for me.

I had not tried cleaning before. It is kind of fun, but also boring. Well, mostly boring. I think I'll let Christopher and Agnes deal with it again from now on. I am very nauseated again, anyway.

Don't tell them I cleaned, okay? They don't know that I am capable. I'll let Christopher think the dogs did this, if he asks. I'm pretty sure dogs can clean.

Christopher: That new mail delivery specialist, Elizabeth Meade, is a peeping Sim! I have just caught her peeping right now! America thinks I have been making it up, but I'm not! I'll teach Elizabeth Meade!

She's outside the dining room window right now, looking in at the painting of America. This is not professional behavior for a mail delivery specialist, who has no business in our back yard! The mailbox is out front! I went outside to tell her I saw what she was doing, and to go away.

I have shooed Elizabeth away now, and she just keeps standing there, gazing at America's portrait, with a dreamy look on her face. Intolerable! I am going to go down to City Hall and complain. Taxi!

On the ride to City Hall, I realized that stress concerning the events of the night before, was perhaps getting to me. I decided not to go to City Hall to complain about Elizabeth Meade, after all. I will have a nice chat with her at some point, instead. Hopefully while she is not already peeping.

So I diverted course slightly, and went to the park. It seemed like a great place to chill. I saw Sandi French there, who I had met recently at my birthday party. I struck up a conversation with her.

My dog Sophie became an elder tonight. Agnes spent a lot of time with Sophie during the day, by way of celebrating. I'm glad Agnes and America treat the dogs as if they are their own. Agnes taught all of them the geomancy when they were younger, and both of the women often play with the dogs.

Agnes: And so ends the long tradition of pictures taken in our undecorated foyer. America feels bad that it was neglected for so long.

She finally did most of the decorating, although there is still unfinished business with some placeholder paintings on the walls, and tweaking that orange wall color, and waiting for a new desk to be delivered.

America said she thinks she's gone a bit overboard, and she's not sure everything is working. Well, here it is, complete with a solid gold dog bowl for our little princesses, until we have a better spot for that.



Sophie's not looking so well after her birthday. We're all worried about her.

I got it into my head that I wanted to kiss someone, and to take a Charisma class. The colorful new room made me more excited about the future, I think.

So I took the class at City Hall, and then talked to people outside afterward, trying to find a good candidate for kissing. Everybody I talked to soon had to be somewhere else. I guess my desperation was showing through. I decided to read a book for a while to calm myself down.

America: Yeah, so, as it turns out, I'm definitely pregnant. It's confirmed. And I really don't know about these maternity clothes. I want to get a tailor in here to fix this, but nobody wants to work for a pregnant woman. They say it'll be over before I know it—so enjoy life before the baby comes out and starts screaming.

Hmph.

So, I have mostly been sitting around watching the Kids channel on cable, hoping I will be able to learn how to deal with a baby. I hope it does not cry too much.

When Agnes got home from her Charisma class today, I told her I was pregnant. She congratulated me. I told her some worries had cropped up, and my hopes. I was kind of a mess. She couldn't really get a word in for quite some time.

But then she told me it was all so splendid, and she was so happy for me, and we would defeat all my worries.

Pregnant brains don't work very well. I soon told Agnes a pretty wacky story that I think I'd heard, but actually I think it was two or three stories I'd sort of mixed up together, with invented parts as well. I realized this at some point, and improvised to give it some kind of ending. I'm not sure if Agnes really bought this whole thing as being even slightly true, but she was entertained.

Agnes wanted to talk to me about babies, then. She's a bit concerned about tripping on toy blocks. Who isn't! And she wonders what kind of teddy bear to buy. Basically she's overcome with emotion.

I told her to listen to my baby bump and see if she could hear anything.

[Antalia]

Chapter 7: Everything New

America: So, one of the dogs has been going crazy barking at the fridge, and now we know why. There was a creature hiding in the fridge! I am not sure if it is alive, or what.

I asked what we should name it, since it seems uneager to leave. Agnes suggested the name “Abomination”.

Christopher was so exhausted after a long day fishing, that he deferred to Agnes and me. He barely looked at the creature. I think the baby situation is stressing him. We did dive into that rather fast. (But it's not like I can go back and undo it!)

I am pretty sure there cannot be a democracy when there is an even number of voters. I mean, what happens if I vote against Abomination as a name? It seems unfair. Christopher looks too tired to come up with a tiebreaker tonight.

Well, I know what to do. I...may...have played the pregnant card. Now that's really unfair!

Meet Camilla, who once lived in our fridge and now is free. We are not sure about Camilla at all, but there is plenty of room in this house for him/her. Hopefully he/she will not burn it down.

Christopher might enjoy that, I fear. He is always talking about fire. I think that he would make a good firefighter.

Well, there goes my pregnant brain again. Don't burn my house down, Camilla!

Agnes has been spending lots of quality time with Tiffany today.

Agnes has been a bit anxious recently because, as it turns out, my cut-rate architect-who-I-am-not-sure-is-an-architect, is also a midwife. She charges the best rates in town—much cheaper than the hospital, and that's considering that I own the hospital! My architect—err, my midwife—says that I do not need to visit the hospital when my baby comes. She says I can deliver the baby safely in the powder room.

Our powder room has no windows and feels rather like a prison cell, because it is small, and because it has too much of the same tile. This is quite squarely my midwife-and-architect's fault. My midwife said not to worry—I would not need much space, and I would not care what the room looked like when the baby came.

I told Agnes all about this, and she was not sure any of this was right. She called her sister Cornelia to ask her, but I heard Agnes shouting, “I am not in a cult!” while she was on the phone. So I am not sure that conversation was productive. In any case, I defeated Agnes easily in argument, by asking her whether she'd ever had any babies. (It's a good thing she didn't think to ask me the same question!) She went off to play with Tiffany in a huff.

That infernal creature, Camilla, seems to move around and do things when no one is looking.

I'm kind of amazed these skinny jeans still fit. My bump is getting pretty big, and bending over to work in the garden has gotten tricky. I am carrying the baby a bit high, I think, judging by this photo from the security camera I installed in one of the plants. I think I once read the baby will be a boy if carried high, and I look to be carrying it high. I did not do any activities to influence the gender. I am not going to think about gender any more until the baby is born.

I am learning the words to the songs on some of the kids' shows now, and I even know some of the colorful costumed creatures' names. I haven't really learned anything about caring for babies from the TV, though.

Christopher did read a pregnancy book, and told me all about it. It was one of the few conversations we've had since I became pregnant.

Christopher was fishing on the day my heir was born. My architect—err, my midwife—had said I didn't need to bother to have Christopher at my side. That would just stress him. She said I could deliver my baby all by myself.

The baby started to come when I was walking around the town center, talking to people. (I've been bumbling around, enjoying life, during my time off.) My chauffeur drove me straight home.

When I arrived, Agnes got up from the computer in a total panic, and offered to ride to the hospital with me in my limo. My chauffeur was also nervous. I'd told him to go ahead and leave for the night, but he was still idling the car outside.

I went to the powder room and locked myself in, as the midwife had told me, and then there were a few hours of not the most pleasant sensations.

Then it got really bad. I tried to think about my plants, to stay calm.

And then, in a burst of magical sparkles, my heir--my baby girl, was born! I have named her Kara. I was immediately my normal size again, but I wasn't even worried about that. I phoned Christopher, who was fishing in the ocean, and told him to come home and see!

Agnes was exhausted. She had waited outside the powder room, and stayed up until the terrible ordeal was over. It was well after midnight.

I think my midwife/architect might be wrong about delivering alone in the powder room. That incident was scary, and I would not like to repeat it!

Well, the rough part is over, right? I adore my little girl!

To celebrate the birth of Kara, we worked hard on the house. First we got a new kitchen...

And then I ordered my architect to build a gender-neutral nursery. We'll have no old-fashioned pink-for-girls and blue-for-boys in my house, as long as I shall live—which, need I remind you, is forever! Or, that's what I thought...

But I grew very tired of that peach-and-gray color scheme, very fast. It's just not working.

The dogs didn't care about the colors. They raced to see who could jump up onto the new loveseat first. Tiffany also gave it a good chew, despite her Non-Destructive trait. Bad dog!

Kara was endless fun at first, but then I had to change the first diaper. Oh, the smell! And she screamed bloody murder! How am I supposed to concentrate? She doesn't know I'm here to help!

Well, I have learned to love the silencing qualities of the bottle.

It seems all Kara does is drink her bottle and cry. I asked all my friends with children about this, and they said Kara's crying sounds pretty legendary compared to their own experiences.

At least I have a great deal of help from Agnes. She's always near the nursery, painting, reading, or watching TV.

You might notice I caved in and...grudgingly...allowed a pink nursery. The color scheme my architect suggested is based on a photo of pink jelly cookies, she said. I tell myself that the pink is not for girls—it's just there because it's cheerful. And, Agnes and Christopher really like it. I had hoped the happy colors would help with the crying—but they really didn't.

Next, my architect and I addressed the many ways that my master bedroom was not so masterful.

Here is the candy-cookie-rainbow-(pink...) nursery, in all its glory. We'll keep it, this time.

I have learned that blowing raspberries on Kara's tummy makes her laugh and squeal happily. This temporarily stops the crying. Anything to stop the crying...

Christopher is also getting tired of all the crying, although he's barely ever home! Well, I suppose that's my own fault. I make him fish a lot, and he's studying cooking as well.

I am going a little crazy, I think. Maternity leave just drags, on and on. Today I begged Kara to be quiet, and she seemed to listen for a moment, but then she started screaming again. It must be awful to be a baby. There's often nothing in the world she seems to want, when she cries.

Kaylynn Langerak, my old co-worker Iliana's daughter, recently graduated high school. She has taken a liking to Christopher. She waits out by the pond for him and flirts when he tries to fish.

The crying is even driving Agnes a little mad, now.

Since I am on maternity leave, and it is really a new world now with the birth of Kara, I have gotten Agnes to teach me to do the dishes. The activity actually helps clear my mind, like renegade gardening used to.

Christopher and I went to another meet-and-greet at the dog park while Agnes babysat. That woman on the right, Victoria something-or-other, is wearing a very strange outfit for a meet-and-greet, I think. Christopher got on with her like a house on fire.

Agnes has been helping out even more with Kara, as I focus on my immortality project goals. Agnes tells me, wistfully, that she loves the warm snuggles, and the joy of new life and new hope, and she doesn't mind the screaming and dirty diapers so much for that.

After a discussion, Christopher started making an effort to help out more, too.

For all their love and support, they're about to be rewarded a very great deal!

[Antalia]

Chapter 8: Best Birthday Gift, Ever

Recently new characters

[1] Camilla – A creature we have set free from our fridge. He or she defies the laws of biology.
[2] Kara Snow – America Snow's daughter and heir with Christopher Steel; cries excessively.


America: Since around the time I got pregnant, we have all been discussing a very special gift for Agnes' Elder birthday. I've even managed to keep it top secret!

Now it's time.

Agnes and Christopher are a little worried. The really big day has arrived!

Here is a local social worker, carrying a basket to our front door.

He set down his burden rather carelessly.

Agnes was in the bathroom suffering from nerves and a weak stomach, and Christopher was fixing the kitchen sink, which always springs a leak on cue, whenever anything momentous is about to happen.

I was dealing with an epic diaper mess and feeding Kara a bottle, so that the social worker would hopefully not hear her wild screaming.

Surprisingly, the social worker left before any of us could even rush into the room to receive the arrival!

Well, Agnes, I'm not sure how he fit into that basket, but happy birthday!

Meet Eldritch Crumplebottom, a toddler and a very special boy! Agnes has adopted her very own son!

Eldritch's first word seems to have been “homework”. He hit on some other important ones, as well. Nobody ever said Agnes wasn't quirky!

We've had no shortage of cuteness lately, even without Eldritch.

Eldritch has been in a great mood all through his first day here. I hope Kara will learn something from his outstanding behavior.

Having taught Eldritch to talk in a single day, Agnes collapsed from exhaustion. She'll need the rest for the big party tonight!

Christopher is not happy about the pink color of the potty, but he bravely gave Eldritch the first run with it anyway.

I gave Kara a bottle so she'd be quiet while Eldritch concentrated on his task.

But then the bottle ran out, and Kara was back to her usual business. Eldritch gives her a lot of funny looks. I really hope his good nature will soon rub off on her!

[Antalia]

Chapter 9: Face the Cake

America: In the evening, after Eldritch Crumplebottom arrived, we threw Agnes' Elder birthday party.

Agnes' nephew Mortimer arrived first, with a platter of lobster. He hates our foyer.

The rest of the guests seemed to arrive all at once. There was quite a traffic jam at the front door.

Eldritch enjoyed a bottle, and crawled around among all the nice shoes. Careful, everyone!

Agnes got upset about blowing out the candles. She became preoccupied with thoughts of death.

Eventually we persuaded her to face the cake, though.



Agnes?!

No wonder she was so scared!

Some of us kept smiling, and even managed to keep cheering. Mortimer and Christopher were in shock. Eldritch did not mind at all.

Someone brought an ill-behaved cat named Gumbo to the party. I learned the cat's name, but not its owner! During the ordeal with blowing out the candles, Gumbo demolished one of our barstools. Everyone was either too busy cheering, or too much in shock, to put a stop to it.

Mortimer headed straight for the stereo and started dancing after the cake was cut. For once, he had a partner: Sandi French!

Fortunately there were no mirrors in the kitchen or dining room. Agnes danced with her friend Lane Clementson. Was that a hint of a smile on her face?

Thornton Wolff worked hard at my computer, oblivious to all the dancing and chatter. He had work to do!

Eldritch played pegs, Victoria Andrews clapped with excitement, Nick Alto showed off his smooth dance moves, and Sophie devised a plan to eat some birthday cake.

The guests had a great time! We invited a lot of good dancers.

I tried to find out who owned Gumbo. Nobody stepped forward.

I was exhausted and missed the end of the party. I scooped up Eldritch, who was enthralled with a toy, and put him to bed on my way. Eldritch seems to like playing with my hair. He called me “Maerka” and cooed, when I put him in his crib.

Agnes finally visited a mirror. She applied some fast-acting hair dye.

The dance floor was busy for hours. Iliana Langerak and Christopher were particularly fierce partners as the night wore on.

Just before she left, Sandi French slipped into the nursery and woke up Kara for some cuddles. Sandi, I guess I should have told you—Kara is not a pet!

Of course, Kara started shrieking as soon as Sandi left. Perhaps we should put a locking door on that room...

This guest ate four different whole meals, and a slice of cake during the party. He had a final bowl of stew before he left.

The guests had such a good time, they were moved to tears when it was over. We probably won't throw another one like that!

[MissPlumbBob]

I can't believe no one has commented on this yet.

I'm thoroughly enjoying your dynasty! I especially like your photo collages; they make the story very interesting indeed.

[Antalia]

Thank you!

I have some silent readers who have never played the game before, as well. They're astonished by what can be done with it.

I've only had the game since Christmas. I know that what I'm doing is much more basic than most stories. I'd still recommend trying to write a story based on the game, to anyone interested in the various artistic aspects. I am learning a lot about writing, photography, design, and architecture as I go. I probably wouldn't have been pushed to do that, otherwise. And it's been a lot of fun!

[Antalia]

Chapter 10: Quiet, at Last?

America: I've been practicing taking photos with my cell phone. Unfortunately, only one type of frame is available for these photos in the whole world. (That's a business opportunity, there!) Well, I took these photos of the kids.

It was Kara's birthday—right after Agnes' big bash the prior night. We decided not to throw another party. The adults were all a bit out of sorts, and tired.

Eldritch, however, woke up as cheerful on his second day, as the first.

When Eldritch cried for the first time, it was for a clear and stated reason! He has not cried a second time.

Over some leftover dim sum (and some very dirty dishes), Agnes asked if I would help teach Eldritch to walk. I eagerly agreed. It went well, until Kara woke up and started in with her shrieking.

Eldritch was in a great mood, especially once Kara seemed to grow bored of making noise. (That's new for Kara!) So we practiced walking until I was totally exhausted. I hadn't had much sleep the night before.


Where did the time go? Kara suddenly transformed into a real girl—I mean, a toddler!--in a poof of birthday magic!


There's my little girl! She's so charming when she isn't crying.

When the birthday magic was over, Kara immediately started to bawl. Time for a bottle! She emptied it and went back to screaming. Some things never change...?

I fear for Kara when she grows up. I think I may not have done the best job teaching her how the world (or at least this household) works.

Eldritch's foster family must have been better than us...well, this is not a positive line of thinking! I'll try to teach Kara better in the future.


The day after that, we finally stumbled on something great to entertain Kara. It's Bella!

Some people would be concerned (to put it mildly) about letting their only dog with the Aggressive trait (or any dog, really) near their adorable, unsupervised toddler/immortal heir. Do not fear! The laws of dog magic govern this universe, preventing all dogs from taking any sort of aggressive action toward babies and toddlers. It is impossible for Bella to even bark at Kara!

Because of our dogs, everyone enjoyed our first quiet day since Kara's birth! All the dogs chipped in. But soon, they all needed to eat, or play with their chew toys.

And so Kara started screaming—but by then we'd had a helpful delivery! I showed her the new toybox. The toy tank kept her busy for an hour.

Then somebody left the TV on, and the toddlers found yet another way to pass time without screaming.


I tried to read Kara a toddler art book. After many discussions with Agnes and Christopher about the screaming, we feel that fingerpainting--the subject of the book--may be a good outlet for Kara. Progress with the book was very slow, however. Maybe we should start with something less challenging.

Agnes suggested going to the library, where there are a lot less distractions. It seems she was right.

The next day, Christopher littered the house with fishbowls. “It's my lifetime wish,” he told me.

“That's weird,” I said, less charitably than I meant.

“All thirteen fish are different and perfect,” he explained. “I named each one of them, too!”

“Uh huh. Who is going to feed them and clean their bowls?” I asked. I've gotten quite wise about housework, these days.

“Hmm. I was thinking you, Agnes, and I will each do five,” he said.

“There are two more fish?” I asked.

“Huh?”

“Never mind.” Arithmetic is not Christopher's strong subject. “I can't do that. I'll forget or be late for work, and mine will die,” I said. I did not like the look on Christopher's face. He seemed concerned. So I added, “Then we would all be sad. This is not a sad house.”

“It's definitely not a sad house,” he agreed. “I think it's pretty easy to feed five fish every day, though!” He smiled brightly.

If it was so easy, why wasn't he volunteering to do them all?

“Christopher!” I decided to be dramatic. He always falls for it! “Think of the children!” I wailed. “They will cry if we have to flush one of these beautiful creatures!” Honestly I'd quietly fertilize my plants with one, if it died.

“Oh. Good point. Hmm,” he said, and wandered off, mumbling that he'd split them, six each, with Agnes.

That night, I saw him scooping the fish out, and the next day, the fishbowls were all gone. I feel quite bad about that--I thought he'd keep a sensible number, like one or two. Well, I'll make it up to Christopher eventually. I hope.


I worked on teaching Kara to talk. Her first word was “comet,” but she says it kind of like “mommy”--so I'll take it. It seems strange, until you think about the mobile she's been staring at for most of her life.

I taught her “school” next, because even though I love her more than anyone else in the world—I sort of cannot wait until it's time for Kara to go there.

Eldritch wandered over to help. When we were finishing up, I thought Kara said “daddy.” But then I realized she said “death”. I hope this is not an ill omen.

I suppose she could have picked up “death” from Agnes. Agnes is over-concerned with the Reaper.


Kara seems to prefer the more violence-oriented toys, and Eldritch prefers the harmless (until you step on it) toy sheep. I should probably not read anything into that. I do wonder if I'm doing something wrong with Kara, though.

Both of them enjoy hiding in the toybox. Agnes had a panic attack the first time Eldritch got in there and she could not find him.


It was soon time for Tiffany to become an Elder.


Say cheese, Kara, Sophie, and Eldritch! This happy photo was taken about five minutes before Agnes walked through and tripped on the sheep. We took her to the hospital to have her ankle checked out. (She was fine--just a mild sprain!)

I note that our new desk never arrived! I'll have to phone the delivery company when I get a chance.

The next day, Christopher thought he would go to the library and study cookbooks in peace.

He was wrong.

The Reaper came for Gus Hart in the community playroom, just after Christopher walked in the door. The library was filled with the cacophony of mourning, making it impossible to concentrate.

Christopher never got any reading done at the library. Bella's Elder birthday was coming up that evening, and the sink broke on cue. I was worried a toddler might drink the growing floodwaters. (I have learned it is astonishing, what they can accomplish, when I turn my back for a few seconds!) Well, the flood didn't seem completely safe. Agnes and I consulted, and soon we decided to call Christopher home to fix it.

He was just about to open his book when I called, he told me. Poor Christopher.


Next we celebrated Bella's Elder birthday. She had a great day playing with the toddlers. She really likes them.


Tiffany marked her own recent upgrade to Elder status, with an incident of incontinence, right next to where I was sleeping.

I am disappointed to admit it, but I had a very brief fantasy of sending Tiffany to the dog shelter. Since close to her Elder birthday, she has been doing a lot of uncharacteristic things. She has been chewing on all the furniture and rugs, peeing in the master bedroom, and falling asleep on my side of the bed and being very slow to give way, when I come in at night. She also goes around barking and waking everyone at 3-4am. It's getting disruptive.

I wouldn't actually send her to the shelter. I just fantasize when I'm frustrated.

The next day, all the plumbing was breaking again, because it was Eldritch's birthday!


All the adults worked together to repair broken plumbing and scour the house clean. We hope Eldritch's party will be special. We've got a great present on the way for Agnes' wonderful little boy!

[Antalia]

Chapter 11: It Was Special, All Right!

Agnes: There must have been something in the water that day.

Or maybe it was that I specified casual attire for the party, instead of the usual formal wear.

The guests had barely entered the house for Eldritch's birthday party when, quite unexpectedly, I was swept off my feet by a handsome prince! I don't even know what happened. One moment I was greeting guests, and the next, I was in his arms!

America commented that my young prince, who goes by VJ, appeared to have gone to another party before this one. I thought that was a funny idea. Even Kara seemed to think VJ was a bit strange. Well, I had my first kiss with VJ—so I think he's great!

Was this scene planned? Lane had his suspicions, but no one would say. America seemed bothered by it.

The only normal thing about the party was our married (but not to each other) neighbors, Nick and Nancy, showing off their sweet dance moves.

Sandi felt unwell, and only America responded to the candle call.

Eldritch and I didn't mind. I was relieved not to cope with a crowd, myself.

Several minutes after the candles were blown out, guests started filing into the dining room.

I don't know what it is exactly that I hate so much about crowds, but I really do hate them. Suddenly Eldritch and I were hemmed in at the back of the dining room by a bona fide crowd. I considered kicking out the big picture window and jumping through to escape, but Eldritch might have been hurt by the shards. So I didn't.

I braved my fear and noticed other people having problems, too. Victoria cried about the recent death several times during the evening.

Speaking of death, my sister Cornelia passed away just before my Elder birthday recently.  We never really resolved our differences over my decision to live with America, but I did tell her about my then-upcoming adoption of Eldritch. She congratulated me, and then reminded me that I'm getting on in years and might not live to see him grow up. America and Christopher are his godparents—so I'm not too worried.

Several people from our party pictures have also passed away somewhat recently. It inevitably happens when a lot of the people you know are older. I'm just glad we will always have pictures of them smiling and having fun.

Well, I don't want to be morbid—so on with the party!

Kara was in an unnaturally good mood, and so her parents did not have to imprison her in the crib. Kara showed off her dragon toy to everybody.

The birthday magic came, and Eldritch...oh dear. What are you wearing?

Bebe Hart (bottom left) was upset because she was mourning Gus Hart, who died in the library playroom the other day. I thought having her sit next to Eldritch would help ease her mind, but the somber mood seemed to spread to him.

America was really out of sorts. I overheard her muttering that she seemed to be in everybody's way. That's not like her. She ate her cake facing the wall, without comment.

Sandi, also in a strange mood, ignored the humans in favor of Tiffany. Well, the dogs are guests, too, and they are often overlooked, I suppose!

Christopher was really out of sorts, also. When Kara inevitably started crying, he ignored her and petted Sophie beside her.

Everybody seemed to be talking about going home early. America was unhappy about that, but that was sure fine with me! I just don't care much for parties, because parties mean crowds.

Victoria and VJ did go home early. (Farewell, sweet prince!) VJ didn't say goodbye to me, but I think he's the type not to worry about the small things. And, he's pretty young. At least those two liked the party, anyway. I was surprised Victoria did, since she cried through a lot of it. Maybe this was the medicine her grief needed.

I am afraid my bad mood led to an argument with my neighbor, Nick Alto. I think it started when Nick--who is always comfortable and smooth at our parties--criticized me for looking uncomfortable in the crowd. I decided to stand up for myself. My phone rang loudly as our argument escalated into shouting, and we both ignored it. I felt a lot of eyes on me.

America put an end to the argument by asking Nick to dance for a bit, and he obliged without apologizing or saying anything else to me. Nobody seemed to notice America had never danced at our parties before!

Soon America started trying to comfort Bebe, who'd been crying over Gus. But Bebe said she suddenly had to go.

I told my son Eldritch to go put some clothes on, and he thought that meant a cowboy costume.

The general mood among the adults in the dining room was steadily decreasing. When Eldritch returned in his costume, with his hair miraculously grown out a little—I told him to go and try out my easel. “Really?!” he asked, his jaw falling open.

“Just don't break it,” I told him.

“Okay!”

I feel quite anxious about Eldritch breaking it, but I keep reminding myself we can afford a new one!

Eldritch took to that easel like a fish to water. We'll probably need to invest in a second one.

A while after the party, even though it was past midnight, my friend Clark Sauer, who had been a guest, phoned me up and asked if I wanted to go on a date. He invited me to a secluded area as far from the house as possible.

My housemates might have gently advised against this, if they'd been awake. But they weren't!

I took most of the journey on foot, enjoying the night air. It was about 3am by the time I arrived at the meeting spot! I was surprised Clark was still there, waiting for me.

Clark and I had a pleasant chat. He said he picked this spot for me because it was highly unlikely to develop a crowd! He's very thoughtful! I stayed out with him until after sunrise, when he finally admitted he was exhausted.

[Antalia]

Chapter 12: Big Enough for Big Questions

America: I need to get one of these someday, instead of just carpooling around in one with what's-her-name:

Someone gave Kara yet another monster toy. That is a rare picture of her being rather gentler than usual with it.

With Kara safely distracted, the dogs were able to hold a conference about rodents.

In other weird news, Agnes let Eldritch wear his cowboy costume to school. So I took Agnes shopping to buy lots of clothes for him, hoping to encourage the cowboy-costume-wearing to stop.

I realized Kara might need therapy for her screaming. I was beginning to think her behavior was no longer natural.

During Eldritch's first day of school, his and Kara's shared birthday gift arrived.

It was a crew of builders, come to give them a pretty decent bedroom!

Unfortunately, my architect forgot to design space for a dresser. (She made a similar mistake in the nursery, previously...) So, the kids are using one in Agnes' room for now, until the builders come back to fix it at some point.

We also bought each of the kids a dollhouse as part of the birthday present. Kara was quick to try out both of them.

Of course, her idea of playing with dolls mostly involves trying to decapitate or eat them.

Kara found a giant yeti doll, with rather realistic horns, in the new toybox. It looks like a real foot-mangler—we'll have to watch out for that on the floor!

Agnes painted this portrait of Kara for the immortality project. It doesn't look like much to the untrained eye, perhaps—but it's a masterpiece! We hung it in the garden shed—I mean, the museum!--with my young-adult portrait.

Sadly, Victoria Andrews died while getting ready to attend Kara's birthday party that evening. Victoria was really old. I tried to put on a good face for the sake of the kids, and for the guests who didn't know her.

I spotted VJ (Agnes' young man), heading into the kids' room shortly after Kara's birthday party began. VJ asked very politely if he might play with the dollhouse.

I told him to go for it. (It's probably better than risking a sudden public display of affection from him, in the dining room!)

I also scooped up Kara and took her out of there!

For some reason I specified casual attire for the party, even though our other recent party seemed to suffer due to casual attire. It just seemed so unkind, to make everybody dress up just to see the world's most fussy toddler grow into a child.

Well. My bad. Clark Sauer showed up in a wifebeater, dress pants, and sandals. At least he wasn't wearing socks with the sandals, I suppose. I think all our parties will be non-casual in the future.

I also realized we can hold parties away from the house, to spice things up a bit, in future. Everyone has been getting too comfortable!

At the party, Christopher mostly played with the dogs.

My hopes that a spark might fly between Agnes' nephew Mortimer and Sandi French, seem to be lost. Sandi ignored Mortimer that evening.

Lane played alone with the computer, VJ played alone with the dollhouse, and Clark watched TV—alone, naturally. Given that a guest had passed away before the party even started, there weren't many people left for socializing!

The lack of guests practically forced Sandi French and our new repairman together!

To my relief, our neighbor Nancy Landgraab showed up just before the candle call. She brought tofu dogs, and came dressed in an extravagant coat.

Eldritch pleaded with Agnes to come into the dining room for the candles. She was still very cautious about crowds after Eldritch's birthday. Agnes told me she had seriously considered breaking a window to escape that crowd.

Kara blew out her candles with her powerful lungs, well-exercised from crying.

You might notice there was another matching-overalls incident. Yes, this was definitely the last casual-attire party!

Eldritch opted for some sushi instead of waiting for the cake.

Eldritch seems a little rounder than the rest of us. We are quite strict with the children's eating habits, and he eats the same amounts of the same things (or healthier things, in this case), at the same times as everyone else. Agnes told me the doctor said the extra weight must be genetic, and not to worry.

Kara crossed her eyes – a sure sign that the birthday magic was on its way...

And there she is, grown up into childhood!

We enjoyed the cake, but the mood was a bit low, given Victoria's passing and the 'loner' attitude of several of the guests.

Eldritch took me aside and said that he hoped Kara would cry less and play more, now. I just smiled pleasantly and nodded, while quietly, fervently agreeing in my head!

There was soon a major queue at the sink, as everyone insisted on washing their own plates. I asked them not to do this, but they were adamant in their “helping”.

Christopher (top right) was at the head of the line. He is intimately familiar with the ins and outs of the sink, having repaired it dozens of times. He had a feeling Ol' Sinky would not cope with this kind of a load. But, what could Christopher do? I could just about hear him say, “Oh, brother!” with that look at the security camera.

When Mortimer (left), second in line, washed his plate, the sink broke spectacularly, shooting water everywhere!

Mortimer immediately realized he had to be somewhere else, and fled the party!

Current and past repairmen each glanced at the sink, and left, too! (Except Clark, who was too engrossed in the TV to notice.)

On the wall, behind our current repairman, whose name slips my mind—is my best adult portrait Agnes has painted so far. We may have to use that one in the museum.

Nick Alto showed up late. He hurt his arm and was carrying it very strangely all evening. He said he was fine.

I was sure that the injured arm was totally unrelated to the recent passing of Nick's wife. The thought never crossed my mind.

Nancy's husband also passed away recently. I privately wondered whether Nick and Nancy would get married. Have we ever seen a couple so perfect for each other?

Soon, Nancy was so stricken with her grief that she decided to leave before she even danced—leaving Nick to dance alone.

I suppose Camilla sort of danced with him.

Meanwhile, Christopher discovered Iliana Langerak is a daredevil, like him. They struck up a good conversation.

Sandi was engrossed in her book in the empty dining room, even after most of the guests left.

When most of the guests were gone, Agnes and Clark danced in front of the fridge, and Kara prepared to enjoy her first night in her cozy new bed.

The sink sprayed jets of water into the kitchen all night. I had ordered Christopher to leave it alone and enjoy the party! I hoped I wouldn't regret that.

In the morning, on Kara's first day of school, she got up and watched TV with Eldritch. Kara soon picked an argument with him about the show.

Kara selected some questionable pink shorts and a red top for school. (Maybe I just don't like pink very much.)

The ice cream truck driver heard we had two school-aged kids now, and booked it straight to our house after school.

But the kids were doing homework, and I told them there would be no ice cream until they finished! By then, the ice cream truck was gone—oops.

Some of that was their own fault, though. I told the kids to work together on their homework, but Kara rebelled and insisted on working separately. I warned her that this would just make the homework take longer, for no good reason. She gave me a dirty look.

I will have to get Christopher to talk to her.

After homework, Eldritch started a fictional novel which he said was about driving.

In the other room, in the meantime, Kara asked me a tough question. “Why aren't you and Daddy married?”

I was caught off guard. “Where did you get that idea?” I asked her.

“At school, all the other kids' parents are married.”

Reality suddenly struck me. How did I not anticipate that Kara would someday have her own ideas and her own life? It had already started. She gets on the bus at 8:30am, and returns home from the library at about 5pm. I don't witness what goes on during that time. Parenting is about having control—but also about giving it up, I realized.

But I'm doing something other than parenting, really—I have to get Kara, a separate individual, on board with my immortality project. I thought it would be so easy—that I, as the parent, could just paint the lines and carefully keep her between them. That suddenly seemed incredibly foolish.

Kara was waiting for an answer. “I am very proud of you,” I said.

She screwed up her face into quite an ugly expression and said, “That's not an answer.”

“I would like to table this discussion until dinner,” I said.

“Why?” Kara demanded.

“I would like your father to join it.” I'd also like to talk to him first!

Kara stuck out her tongue at me, and ran off. “Kara, don't stick out your tongue!” I called after her, hopelessly.

Christopher didn't make it home for dinner, which led to some more face-making on Kara's part during the meal. I tried to imitate Agnes and Eldritch, and not pay Kara's behavior too much attention. Hopefully Kara will learn that bad behavior won't get her what she wants, at some point.

After dinner, we noticed Camilla had gained a new friend or relative.

Before bed that night, I told Christopher about Kara's big question. He just chuckled in reply.

“What is that supposed to mean?” I asked.

“I don't know, America.” He paused for a long time. “Don't people need to decide to get married, before they get married? Aren't there a lot of reasons behind it? I think it's a decision with a lot of things to consider. And I'm always hearing how marriage isn't for everyone—maybe it's not for us. I think our daughter, of all people, would understand that. I think you underestimate her.” That was possibly the largest number of words I'd ever heard come out of Christopher at once. Non-fishing-related words, anyway.

I have no doubt that I underestimate Kara, but what's so hard for me, is to stop doing it.

“I think marriage is for me. I am not sure it's for you,” I said.

“Why is that?” he asked.

“It would make me happy to have my own family, beyond any doubt, like my parents did,” I replied.

“But you have your own family, beyond any doubt. You have me and Kara, and also Agnes and Eldritch. We will always be your family,” he said, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

“I'm selfish, then. I'd just like to say 'my husband' instead of 'my boyfriend'.”

“Is that a proposal?” he asked. But he didn't let me get a word in. “No, it's just for work,” he said, as if it were an explanation, his voice muffled as he slid under the blankets. He pulled them up and rolled away from me.

“No!” I cried. I grabbed his shoulder and pulled him back. “This has nothing to do with work,” I said.

“If you're going to keep me awake, I'm just going to be honest. Everyone you work with is married. They go around saying, 'my husband', 'my wife'--but look how happy they all are. How many affairs they have. How much time they spend with their families. Is that really what you want?” he said.

“My own parents weren't that way,” I said.

“But you've also said there are plenty of ways you don't want to be like them,” he said. “America, I am really tired. If you want, I will talk to Kara tomorrow about why we are not married. I will take that burden off your shoulders. I can see it's a really big one for you.”

Why do I feel like I have been so...wrong? I feel like I'm playing the antagonist, and can't stop doing bad things. Especially to Christopher.

Well, really, I am selfish. Look at what I'm doing—my immortality project. Uggh.

“I love you,” Christopher mumbled, as he turned away again. We've shared the big bed since the night we created Kara, but no one had ever said that before.

I should have said it back. Instead, I got up, locked myself in the bathroom, and cried for a minute. Then I diverted my energy into phoning my architect, and I got her to send some emergency overnight builders. Christopher was asleep when I returned.

[Antalia]

Chapter 13: Lost

America:Kara almost missed the bus on her second day of school, because she was talking to Christopher. I'd gotten up early to tend the garden, and didn't realize they were discussing the big topic—why we weren't married—until they were done. Now I feel even worse, if that's possible. I should have been there to agree with Christopher. When it comes to Kara, we have learned our solidarity is very important. She is clever, and plays us against each other, otherwise.

Well, aside from our family difficulties—notice something slightly different in the background?

The house is still nowhere near done, but in the wee hours of the morning, we made some progress!

The siding still needs more and better variation—what's pictured is a sanity check for a lighter color scheme. There are more rooms that need to be added; some reshaping and re-roofing; and, especially, the landscapers still have to transform ideas into reality. But it's progressing!

Christopher also had the agreed discussion with Kara about homework issues. He's so much quicker and better at talking to her, than me.

Well. I mean, parenting is not a competition or anything! (If it were, I am afraid Agnes and Christopher both probably have me sorely beaten.) So, I take that back. I'm just really glad Christopher is here.

Christopher also said he told both kids that they were to go to the library after school from now on, and find an adult to do their homework for them before they come home.

That was not what I told him to say at all, but he said it. So now I must act like I would have said it, too. Sometimes Christopher is a dangerously free radical!

The kids have been meeting all sorts of people at the library, like that creepy Albrecht woman (above), and her strangely adult-looking toddler. Well, maybe it's just the overalls, on the toddler. I've seen far too many adults wearing those, recently!

We realized Sophie couldn't possibly have much life left in her. We had all been treating her (and all the dogs) more gently and leniently because of this. We have also tried to explain death to the children.

The kids easily settled into the routine of getting random adults at the library to do their homework for them. There they are, with a new guy in town and Beau Andrews, hard at work on the library's cool marble floor.

I begrudgingly agreed that this was okay. Christopher told them to do it; it's not against school rules; and they're getting good grades. So I shouldn't mind, right?

The kids asked to set up dueling easels, and held some kind of art contest when they got home. Kara's entry was nowhere near as good as Eldritch's, I felt, but he declared it a tie.

Kara got paint all over the rug in the process. I was not entirely convinced it was an accident, but I kept my opinion to myself. We had to send the rug for cleaning. It's really a marvel that the rug hadn't gotten paint on it before that—so I shouldn't blame Kara. I need to set up an art room for the kids, with some kind of flooring that can survive paint spatters without the assistance of hired professionals. I wonder if such a thing exists.

The tofu dogs Nancy brought to Kara's birthday last week spoiled, but Agnes and Eldritch didn't know what tofu was supposed to taste like, and so they ate them for breakfast the next day, anyway.

They got mild food poisoning and spent most of that day throwing up, and worse.

When it comes to Eldritch, it seems every dark cloud has a silver lining. He actually volunteered to clean the horror mess around the toilet when that was over, and then he did. What a good boy!

I agreed that for her excellent homework performance, compliance with rules, and somewhat better behavior—that Kara could go and see a movie by herself at the theatre after school. I did not realize that the theatre would allow a small girl on her own to see the new horror movie, Sharks...On Land!. Otherwise, I would not have let her go.

Christopher does not share my opinion, especially because the movie features a lot of huge sharks, and an ocean fishing scene at the beginning (before the sharks make landfall). I saw him high-fiving Kara when she told him what film she'd seen!

Solidarity, Christopher! Solidarity! That was not it! I'm starting to feel like our lives are playing out a good cop, bad cop comedy/drama—and I got the “bad cop” role without a choice!

The next day, Sophie was out chasing the ball around in the (still unfinished) back yard, when a visitor appeared in the shade of the tree.

The visitor used magic to create a strange, rune-covered stone on the ground.

But Sophie was not afraid. The visitor was gentle. They were like old friends.

Next, the visitor made a gateway in the sky, and tossed a stick through it for Sophie to fetch.

Sophie had fetched hundreds of times in her life. She knew just what to do whenever a friend threw a stick—she jumped right for it!

Suddenly, everyone knew at once that Sophie was no longer with us.

Instead of leaving, the macabre visitor sensed an unoccupied laptop computer with internet access in the house, and went to investigate.

Eldritch was so engrossed in his painting, he didn't even notice that it wasn't Agnes sitting down at the computer.

The Reaper made him- or herself right at home, went straight to a web chat room, and clicked away expertly at the keys.

Agnes later said she felt proud the Reaper had been mistaken for her.

Kara bravely confronted the visitor without hesitation, as soon as she arrived home that day.

Agnes heard them talking, and came to see what else the Reaper wanted.

Kara soon demanded her dog back, and burst into inconsolable tears. Then the Reaper vanished as quickly as (s)he came.

“What a coward!” Kara said about that, when she told me the story later.

In the moment, she was very badly affected by all of it, though.

Agnes tried to comfort Kara, but it didn't do any good. Kara became hysterical.

Although it is bad of me, I feel slightly satisfied that Agnes finally met with some impossible behavior from Kara. Sometimes it seems like Kara's tantrums are always directed at me.

Eldritch tends to ignore Kara when her mood is extreme. He kept right on painting.

Later he decided to title that painting, “A Star to Guide Sophie”.

Later, Christopher arrived home with the other dogs. Christopher/Bella and Agnes/Tiffany had tied for first place, in the pet competition at the stadium earlier in the day. Christopher had taken the dogs around to do errands with him, afterward. When they got home, they were all stricken with grief. Christopher felt he hadn't gotten to say goodbye properly.

When Eldritch finished his painting, he finally let himself be upset.

Kara painted for a while, too, but she didn't work for long. When she stopped crying and I asked what the painting was of, she glared at me and said that the painting was of Daddy and me. Daddy was wearing Agnes' glasses, which totally made sense to Kara.

I think Kara views me increasingly as a villain in our relationship. I also think this isn't good for any of us.

So I asked her, “Why are you looking at me that way?”

“Is daddy going to die too?” she asked.

“No, Kara. Sophie was really old. Dogs don't live as long as people.”

“Daddy's going to live forever, then,” she said, and glared even harder. She seemed to look at me like she knew I was a liar—like she could see right through me. If I'd had time to think about it, I might have stopped her and told her she couldn't talk to anyone with such hostility. But I was thinking on my feet. And I don't do as well with that in my house as I do in the company board room, apparently.

I wondered how much Kara knew. I hadn't explained immortality to her.

“Kara, everybody dies when they get very old. Daddy is not old. I am not old,” I said.

“Daddy says you won't die, and I won't die,” she accused.

Apparently, Daddy had really been saying a lot when Mommy wasn't around! I felt slightly guilty about what I was going to do next, but I had to ask Kara anyway. “What did Daddy say about himself?”

“You're going to kill him!” she shouted.

My jaw fell straight open. My knees went weak. “He said that?” I gasped.

“No, I said that!” she stomped her foot hard, missing my toes by a hair, and ran from me.

I didn't know whether to go after her. I feel like managing Kara has gotten far above my pay grade. I'm not cut out for this! But nobody else can do it! Help! But there is no one I can cry to for help! I'm panicking!

I saw movement and looked behind me. Agnes had just stepped into the archway, a worried and sympathetic look on her face. “I...what do I do?” I spluttered. As if anyone would know.

Agnes shrugged gently. “What happened?”

“I'm sorry,” I said, breaking my promise to myself, to never apologize in relation to the immortality project. Then I dropped everything to run after my daughter.

In the end, I couldn't find Kara. Christopher had gone back out to fish for a bit, by himself, but he came home after about an hour. I saw him arriving. I have possibly never felt worse.

How could I say, “Our daughter thinks I am going to kill you, which is almost sort of true, since I let you believe you'd live forever, and wasted your life. Oh, and by the way, I lost her. And I also feel rotten that I said nothing when you told me you loved me. That wasn't what I meant to do at all, but I still can't stand to correct it.” Lingering in my mind was, of course, also the worry that my immortality project was collapsing around me—and the guilt that I cared. How did I get to be such a wonderful Sim?

I rushed up to Christopher. I was out of breath, disheveled, panicked, and frightened. “I can't find Kara!” I cried wildly, grabbing his shoulders and shaking him. I might have been out of my mind.