The Riversong 4x4 Dynasty chapter 16

[betabee]

The free spirit household is a popular one for dynasty help. It's high time they had their own chance to shine. Thus I present to you . . .

The Riversong Dynasty!

Nicholas and Cassidy will be the founders, Jessica Willow will help out with potions and the like.

Chapter list:
An unearthly child
The Daleks
The Aztecs
The keys of Marinus
Marco Polo
The Romans
The Rescue
Planet of giants
The Time Meddler
Galaxy 4

The Myth Makers
The Ark
The Celestial Toymaker
The Crusade
The Space Museum
Let's do the time warp again . . .

[betabee]

Stats!

Heir 1:
Career: Law Enforcement (Forensic branch)
Best friends: Blake Greyson, Davy Cho
Skill challenges: Brushmaster, Proficient Painter, Master Painter
Blackops: The business of Decor, Broadway cameo, Deliver a painting to china, Hard core training.

[betabee]

Chapter 1: An unearthly child



Nick: So, what do you say to getting married and having a child to start a 16-generation long dynasty?
Cassidy: I won't need to sculpt, right? I have a feeling it'd be bad for my health . . .
Nick: Nonsense! We just need to be really, really happy.



Cassidy: I'd be happy to do it, then.



Nick: And happy to marry me?
Cassidy: Definitely! I'm not taking your surname though.



Nick: How about a new surname then? One that's uniquely ours.
Cassidy: Maybe a mix of both our surnames would do?



Nick: Like Earthhawk?
Cassidy: That sounds silly. How about Riversong?



Nick: Sounds good.
Betabee: And now I pronounce you the founders of the Riversong Dynasty!



Generation 1 is on the way! I'm not having the whole guessing game like in the Scientias. All the heirs this time will be based off Dr Who companions or the actors playing the Doctor. I aim to cover 3 Doctors per world.



The nursery is quite simple for now, partly because the cild won't spend long there, and partly because I'm trying to save money for the world moving requirements.



Hence most of the house has been emptied of furniture.



I may use some of the rooms again later on, so I haven't demolished any buildings.



All the furniture selling has allowed the family to buy and fully upgrade their first property on day 1. Score!



So here you see a renovated Louie falls, which hopefully will bring in revenue to help buy the next properties and buildings.



It's on it's way!



Jess: Why am I still here?
Betabee: Same reason as normal.
Jess:Don't tell me I'm a skill slave again!
Betabee: Yep. Sorry. You should have a longer lifespan, though. I don't think there's any restrictions on feeding you young again potions in this ruleset.
Jess: Joy.



Betabee: Enjoying yourself?
Cassidy: Reasonably. It's a good thing Social Networking is a free skill, otherwise it'd be a lot harder for me to get my lifetime wish. How's Nick?
Betabee: He's writing a few books inbetween going to work to boost the family income.



Soon enough, it's time for the first generation to arrive!



Cassidy: Yay! She's green!
Betabee: Forum, this is Susan- an artistic and good baby.



Susan was aged up immediately following her birth.
Nick: Woot! I don't have to deal with a burrito at all!



Susan: I thought I'd have grown some hair by now.
Betabee: It's only a few minutes since you were born- have some patience.



She's got Nick's eyes and hair, and her mother's skin (though in a slightly darker shade). It's hard to tell which parent she resembles most face-wise at this stage.



Betabee: Why did you have white as your favourite colour?
Susan: It's pretty and clean.
Betabee: It's a silly colour to dress a toddler in, but I've done my best.



Thus begins the heir's skilling so she can get the correct traits. I'm hoping she can get ambitious and workaholic so she can do painting and law enforcement when she's older.

[maisie]

Congratulations on your first heir. I'm happy to see she got her mothers colour. And wow, you are fast, first property on day one!

[hazelnut]

I wondered about a Dr Who connection as soon as I saw the surname .  (And then the chapter title, of course.)
The Free Spirits are likely to be appearing in my dynasty as well.  That is, assuming I can get them to move in on the next attempt...

[butterfly]

Susan is adorable, I'm glad she's green! Good luck with the dynasty

[betabee]

Congratulations on your first heir. I'm happy to see she got her mothers colour. And wow, you are fast, first property on day one!

The advantages of starting with townies- extra money for properties!

I wondered about a Dr Who connection as soon as I saw the surname .  (And then the chapter title, of course.)
The Free Spirits are likely to be appearing in my dynasty as well.  That is, assuming I can get them to move in on the next attempt...

I hope to include Dr who themed chapter titles (and heir names) throughout the dynasty. 
Good luck moving them into your dynasty.

Susan is adorable, I'm glad she's green! Good luck with the dynasty

So am I. It'd be interesting to see how long I can keep the green in the family. 

[ratchie]

I love the naming theme and congratulations on a greenboo!

Rachel

[kaseofhearts]

I jumped right to this one as soon as I saw the name. Cassidy is a pretty girl and will probably have some gorgeous children. Can someone point me in the direction of the 4x4 rules? I know this is a new one, but I just want to orient myself.

[betabee]

I love the naming theme and congratulations on a greenboo!

Rachel

Thanks! 

I jumped right to this one as soon as I saw the name. Cassidy is a pretty girl and will probably have some gorgeous children. Can someone point me in the direction of the 4x4 rules? I know this is a new one, but I just want to orient myself.

They're on the challenge board page. here's a link if it helps.

[betabee]

Chapter 2- The Daleks



And so we begin with Susan's toddler skills.
Susan: How long do I need to spend as a toddler? I'd like to eat real food.
Nick: It won't be for long, darling. I'm sure you can be aged up as soon as you're taught all your skills.



Susan: Of all the toddler pics, you had to include this one?
Betabee: Well, we've got ones of you learning to walk and talk. This is just to complete the set really.



Thus, after only a day or two, it was time for Susan to age up.



She aged up with the ambitious trait.
Betabee: Dresser first, then you've got work to do.
Susan: Already?
Betabee: We're on a limited time span here.
Susan: Fine. Mirror first though- I'm not a fan of pigtails.



Betabee: Is this better?
Susan: Yeah.



Betabee: I'm not sure white really goes that well . . .
Susan:I don't care about fashion that much. You shouldn't either, given we're in a hurry.
Betabee: Fine. That'll do. To the easel!



Susan: So, do I get tutoring or anything?
Betabee: Probably not. AN A is enough, and you need to get those paintings done.
Susan: Ok. Let me get on with it then!



I changed Nick's lifetime wish to swimming in cash. My strategy will be to use genies to get most of the money for buildings and properties. The genies will be gotten from Cassidy and Nick, since I need to get them lifetime happiness points anyway.



Poor Jess. Forced to make potions and elixirs, she got changed into a toad when making an invigorating elixir, and I've been procrastinating on curing her.



A few days later, it was time for 2 birthdays. Nick became an adult . . .



. . . and Susan became a teen.



I gave her the workaholic trait this time.
Susan: I guess this means I'll have a rabbithole job.
Betabee: Quite correct. You're going into law enforcement.



She's a nice mix of her parent's features.



Her favourite colour is stil a bit problematic however.
Susan: There's nothing saying you have to dress me in white.
Betabee: It makes my descision making easier. Back to the easel with you!



The next day was Cassidy and Jess' adult birthdays.



However, I've encountered a glitch. It seems you cannot age up if you're a toad. I tried using a cake, but that didn't work either.



I could exploit this, but it feels like cheating to leave her as a toad forever, so I sent her to the alchemy store to try and find a cure elixir.



Luckily a cure elixir was found and she was human again.



Jess aged up immediately afterwards. Her adult birthday was only a day late, but given there are no life-extending restrictions on spares and helpers, I won't worry about it too much.

[superbluejay]

This looks good! Bookmarked....

[maisie]

Fortunalely you got a cure elixir, these toads look really strange. But on the other hand, the green matched the Riversongs. 

[hazelnut]

There's something so right about Toad!Jess

[ratchie]

Susan reminded me of one of Cassidy's children in my first attempt at a townie decaDynasty.

Her father is Hector Mendoza though.

Great update!

Rachel

[betabee]

This looks good! Bookmarked....

I hope you enjoy the coming chapters!

There's something so right about Toad!Jess

Fortunalely you got a cure elixir, these toads look really strange. But on the other hand, the green matched the Riversongs. 

It was strange having Jess wandering around as a toad. I'd have happily left her as such because it was so novel, but only decided not to once I found it affected her age. I doubt I'll have enough house room for everyone to live forever. . .

Susan reminded me of one of Cassidy's children in my first attempt at a townie decaDynasty.

Her father is Hector Mendoza though.

Great update!

Rachel

I'm glad you enjoyed the update. She turned out quite well, I'll have to remember Hector as a potential spouse for later dynasties- what age is he at the start of the game?

I apologise for the lack of posting over the last couple of weeks- I've just finished moving back to uni for my second year. Also, I've decided to have a weekly posting schedule- I will post chapters for the Riversongs on wednesdays, and for the Scientias on saturdays.
So, on with this week's chapter. . .

Chapter 3: the aztecs



We begin on a happy note- Jess worked out how to make young again potions! She will now spend more time on alchemy, but eventually I'll give her time off to have a child.
Jess: And when exactly will that be?
Betabee: Not too long, since i'd prefer you to nab a townie to have a child with. All suggestions welcomed- a few options would be nice, just in case people have moved/run away to moonlight falls.



Cassidy: Ah, so I'm expecting again.
Betabee: Well, you wanted another child. Ask, and the watcher shall provide.
Cassidy: Are you a genie? I've seen a lot of genies around lately.
Betabee: Mostly because they give you lots of money. But no, I'm not a genie.
Cassidy: That's good- otherwise I'd have trouble getting everything done. I want a lot more than three things.
Betabee: Patience, Cass- you're only on thing 2.



And so we move on to thing 1 being caked up a couple of days early (mostly because she had an A and I wanted her to get some painting opps before she maxed the skill).



Yes, ratchie, they do look remarkably similar, despite having different fathers. They've got the same eye shape and skin.



I do like the painter-y outfit I found for Susan's everyday wear. I think it's from university life.
Susan:Yeah, I like it too. It's colourful.
Betabee: I thought you liked white?
Susan: Well, white brings out the colourfulness of other colours, right?
Betabee: I'll end the conversation here before it gets too artsy for me. . .



Susan: Policing? Really?
Betabee: One, we need a police box, and two, you can become a DNA profiler and thus use your painting.
Susan: Okay. And my partner is Sebastian Vanderburg.



Susan will be working from home most of the time so she can max her career ASAP. She can finish off the other two painting challenges inbetween.



But before that. . .
Susan: I wish for. . .love!
Genie: Well, that's new. It's been 'money money money!' from you lot thus far.
Susan: Don't question me, just do it!
Genie: Fine, who do you want to fall in love with?
Susan: Erm. . . I'm not sure.
Betabee: How about that Vanderburg guy? He might bring an expensive car and help with the properties.
Susan: Good enough. It'll also help at work, I guess.
Genie: Fine. Your wish is my command, etc, etc. Can I go now?



Sebastian was invited over that day.
Sebastian: So you're my new partner, huh?
Susan: In more ways than one, yes.



Susan: Have some flowers. They're my favourite colour.
Sebastian: So thoughtful- I'll gift them back to you later.
Susan: It's a good thing flowers don't wilt here.



Sebastian: So why do I suddenly like you so much today?
Susan: Please stop asking awkward questions- I don't have time.
Sebastian: mmmph!



Susan: So I know I only met you yesterday and got a genie to make you love me, but will you marry me?



Sebastian: Alright then. Stranger things have happened in dynasties.
Susan: This is a dynasty.
Sebastian: What?! Why did no-one tell me this before I moved in?
Susan: Well, I didn't want to scare you off now. Don't worry, all you need to do is live long enough to give me a child when the time is right.
Sebastian: Hmph.



Betabee: Will a makeover make you feel any better?
Sebastian: Possibly. I guess I'm watched now, right?
Betabee: Right.



Betabee: I know you like aqua, but is blue near enough?
Sebastian: *sigh* Whatever my lady wishes.
Betabee: Cheer up, you've got a productive and interesting life ahead of you.
Sebastian: I'd have prefered to mooch around as a townie, thanks.



Unfortunately, Sebastian's moaning had to be ignored in favour of more important happenings.



Cassidy: So what do we call this little chick?
Betabee: I think Dodo is appropriate. Let's go cake her up!




Dodo: Ooh! Can I keep a sparkle hairclip?
Betabee: Sorry, but no. Let's get you over to a dresser.



She seems to be an opposite of her sister, with Cassidy's hair but Nick's skin. She seems to have quite a few of Nick's facial features as well.



She likes aqua too, but it was considerably easier to get aqua coloured clothing for her than for Sebastian.
Sebastian: You could have tried harder to get me aqua clothing.
Betabee: But you look better in blue, so stop complaining.

[Nettlejuice]

I think all the Dr Who fans will be drawn by the dynasty surname ^.^ Poor Jess getting Toadified!

[Rhoxi]

I'm enjoying the brash and flippant tone you're taking with this dynasty. It's quite funny. Man, you are just whizzing right along! Or maybe it just seems like that due to the short lifespan. Poor Sebastian, getting conned into joining the dynasty. But hey, at least now he gets better hair! I think the black suits him.

[betabee]

I think all the Dr Who fans will be drawn by the dynasty surname ^.^ Poor Jess getting Toadified!

That's the problem with doing alchemy without sufficient skill points. If Jess gets toadified again, I may just leave her like that-  she can't get toadified again while toadified, so her potion making may go a bit more smoothly. I'll wait and see. 

I'm enjoying the brash and flippant tone you're taking with this dynasty. It's quite funny. Man, you are just whizzing right along! Or maybe it just seems like that due to the short lifespan. Poor Sebastian, getting conned into joining the dynasty. But hey, at least now he gets better hair! I think the black suits him.

I'm glad you're enjoying my writing style.  I am covering ground much faster in this dynasty, mostly because of the shorter lifespan. Also, the household is quite full at the moment, which means I'm taking less screenshots while I'm managing everyone.
I agree, the black does suit him much better.

Chapter 4: The Keys of Marinus



We start with watching Dodo learning her toddler skills.
Dodo: Why are you watching me? Shouldn't you be watching Susan?
Betabee: She's either working from home, working from work, or painting. You're much more interesting.



Cassidy: So what do you want to do when you're older?
Dodo: Well, I'm a perfectionist eccentric genius, so I guess I'll be making potions and inventing stuff.
Cassidy: Right answer! You can also do well at school and get a good job while you're at it, yes?
Dodo: Of course. It's not like you want me to do well or anything.



Betabee: And another skill challenge done! How many have you got left?
Susan: I've only got one left to do- the master painter one.
Betabee: Excellent- You'll have a life of luxury and ease soon enough, don't worry.



I decided to feed the gang young again potions while they were all still adults so I didn't have to redo their wardrobes. Here's Sebastian. . .



. . .Nick. . .



. . .Jess . . .



. . .and Cassidy, all aged down! Hopefully Nick and Cassidy will earn enough LTHP over the next few weeks so they can provide the first two tombstones.



Soon enough, it was time for Dodo to become a child!
Dodo: Wait a sec, what happened to learning to walk.
Betabee: I lost the pic. Sorry!



Dodo:*sigh* You can't get the watchers these days.



Betabee: Or the bad hairstyles, it seems.
Dodo: This isn't bad, but not exactly what I'd like. To the mirror and dresser!




Dodo: Awesome. Do I get a room too?



I had a lot of fun doing Dodo's room.



This is the first completed room of the house. I will remake the other rooms of the house one at a time, as I feel like it. Money is less of a problem now, since the family now owns all the buildings and most of the properties.



Susan: I'd like to marry you, Sebastian.
Sebastian: OK.



Betabee: Wait, what happened to all the dynasty-hating stuff?
Sebastian: I don't want to be in a dynasty, but I still love Susan. I'm doing this for her rather than for your dynasty thing.



And so we have Mr. and Mrs. Riversong!
Sebastian: Wouldn't that be Mr. and Mrs. Vanderburg?
Betabee: It doesn't work like that, Sebastian.



Due to wishes, Nick and Cassidy are having a third child. (Tip: Kids help their parents spawn lots of lovely wishes!)



Susan: Don't you think this painting looks like an exploding TARDIS?
Sims 3:*game crashes*
But don't worry, we were able to continue from a previous save (using pixels saved in the pandorica).



Again, we fastforward through a few boring days to get to the birth of Cassidy's third child.



Meet Steven, another greenboo!



Steven was caked up immediately.
Steven: Hey, I can camoflage against this wall!



Well, he has his mother's eyes. He may eventually grow into the rest of his features.



He likes hot pink, but for his own dignity, I decided to dress him otherwise for now.



Steven: Can I be a spaceship pilot?
Sebastian: Not until you're older, kid.
Steven: Oh. Can I have a puppy instead?
Sebastian: One, we don't have the space really, and two, it depends if you're parents want one.
Steven: Can I have a horse then?
Sebastian:*facepalm*.

[maisie]

I really love Dodo's room and Steven is a cute boy...wishing for all that things to embarass his brother-in-law. 

[Nettlejuice]

That really does look like an exploding TARDIS o.O That bedroom is great, looks like it's all underwater.

[betabee]

I really love Dodo's room and Steven is a cute boy...wishing for all that things to embarass his brother-in-law. 

That really does look like an exploding TARDIS o.O That bedroom is great, looks like it's all underwater.

I'm glad you like Dodo's room. I'll have to get around to doing the other rooms soon . . .

Chapter 5- Marco Polo



Dodo's birthday arrived naturally (because I couldn't be bothered to cake her up).



Dodo: Don't show the bad hair pic please.
Betabee: Ok. Shall we skip to the makeover pictures then?
Dodo: Fine.



She's turned out quite well face-wise. I may even save her to the simbin when she's older.



Dodo: Why do I have a life jacket? We're nowhere near water.
Betabee: I bought Island Paradise the other day, that's why.



Nick: I won't need to do this again, will I?
Betabee: It depends if you want Steven to learn to drive. You're only doing this because you wanted to.
Nick: I think I'm regretting it a bit now. . . brake, Dodo, brake!



Susan finally maxed painting a few days into young adulthood.



Betabee: You know I can't send you to university, right? The bugs are making it unfeasible.
Susan: I'd prefer to go to china.



The trip to China was quite short.



A painting opp was finished, then Susan went hunting for assassin beetles for the collection.



She found one, but then I got bored and sent her home.



Steven's birthday came as soon as he finished walking and talking.



Steven: Ah! I seem to have aged up in very strange clothing. If it isn't too much bother, could I use the dresser now?
It seems Steven has aged up as a friendly little chap. To the wardrobe!



He's grown into his features quite well. I'm not sure I've found him the right hairstyle yet however . . .
Steven: Could I have a pink wardrobe this time, if that's ok?



Betabee: Here's a pink wardrobe. I tried, but pink does clash a bit with your skin colour . . .
Steven: I'm glad you tried. Maybe on my next wardrobe, we can try pink mixed with other colours?
Betabee: Okay. I guess we can work on it.



Since Steven is now too big for the nursery, He's moved into the spare room with his sister.



Betabee: Not again, Jess!
Jess: What? You're the one who wants a million elixirs. It's not my fault it goes wrong.



Susan's adult birthday arrived while she was working from home. She's about level 6 in her work, so the working from home technique is working.



Dodo: Yay, another birthday!
Steven: I do appreciate the extra cake.



It was Dodo's turn first.



Steven: Don't worry, sis- the dresser will fix it.



Steven-stretching time . . .



Steven: An accurate description of my wardrobe state is unrequired. Where's the dresser?
Betabee: Well, I don't have enough screenshots to show both your makeovers this chapter. Who wants to go first?
Steven, Dodo: Me first, obviously.
Betabee: Well, if you can't decide then I'll have to show both next time.
Steven, Dodo: *descend into squabbling over who goes first*
Betabee: Well, here ends the chapter then.
Steven, Dodo: Awww.

Next time: Makeovers and more.

[Rhoxi]

I love Sebastian's simple response to Susan's proposal: "OK." Short. Sweet. Simple. Hi-larious.

Looks like Steven grew into those features after all. Thank goodness, he looked bizarre as a toddler. The kid's room is cute, but I guess they'll be needed something more grown up already!

[Nettlejuice]

Aw, he can't bear to look at his teen clothes xD

[betabee]

I love Sebastian's simple response to Susan's proposal: "OK." Short. Sweet. Simple. Hi-larious.

Looks like Steven grew into those features after all. Thank goodness, he looked bizarre as a toddler. The kid's room is cute, but I guess they'll be needed something more grown up already!

Steven's quite a unique individual, it has to be said. They may get a better room if I can be bothered to redo it before they move out.

Aw, he can't bear to look at his teen clothes xD

He's too cool for EA random clothing, obviously. 

Chapter 6: The Romans

Betabee: Right, have you decided who's going first yet?
Dodo: I am.
Steve: NO you're not!
Betabee: She got there first, so Dodo's going first.
Dodo; You snooze, you lose, little brother.



Dodo has grown up to be absolutely lovely.



She may not be green, but I'm sure she'll do the Riversong name proud.



I still haven't found a hairstyle that suits Steven properly.
Steven: I'm sure you'll find something eventually.



The colour scheme still isn't fixed either. He's a tricky guy to dress, though if anyone wants a go at his wardrobe I'll make him available on the swap shop on request.



Dodo: Why am I becoming a scientist? I'd much prefer to become a composer . . .
Betabee: The common theme for spare actions-
Dodo: Parent wishes, I know, I know.



Jessica: I missed having hair.
Betabee: You're welcome, don't mention it, don't turn yourself into a toad again, ok?



Susan: Hello second best friend.
Betabee: Here's hoping your first best friend doesn't die before I'm finished.



Sebastian: So how's the happiness points coming along?
Cassidy: Quite well, Nick and I both have about 130,000 each, so we should be able to reach the target by the time Susan finishes her requirements. How's Susan doing?
Sebastian: She's working. As usual.



Another day, another round of adult birthdays.



I won't be giving Cassidy, Nick or Sebastian any more youth potions. I've currently got 7 people in the house and it's a bit of a headache.
Sebastian: It's nice to feel wanted.



Susan: Why am I studying martial arts?
Betabee: Well, it's for your last opportunity, so get reading!




Jess may get another youth potion at some point if I remember. Her alchemy and logic skill will be useful for a long while yet.



Betabee: Off to prom?
Steven: Yep. Here's hoping to goes well!



Betabee: How did it go?
Steven: I was voted prom king, but didn't find a date.
Betabee: That's disappointing.
Steven: Tell me about it. At least I've only had to deal with high school politics for one chapter.



Steven: Dresser?
Betabee: Dresser.



Betabee: I can't believe I didn't see it before. An Afro suits Steven perfectly!



Betabee: Though my wardrobe creation skills are still questionable.
Steven: It's not that bad.
Betabee: I'm so glad I have your vote of support.



Steven: So, when do I get to move out of this room?
Betabee: When you move out.
Steven: Wonderful. When can I move out?
Betabee: When you're  level 3 scientist or when your parents are happy enough.
Steven: Then can I become a doctor?
Betabee: I'll see what can be arranged.



And to end the chapter, we have a lighthearted picture you would never see outside the sims- have you ever seen a deer skipping through the town centre? I certainly haven't.

[Nettlejuice]

I love Steven, even better with an afro =]

[Rhoxi]

I like Dodo's features; very elegant. As for Steven's wardrobe . . . hm, maybe a light yellow or tan/khaki? Or a green/blue? Sometimes colorful sims can be infuriating to dress properly.

[betabee]

I love Steven, even better with an afro =]

He's quite the unique and interesting sim.

I like Dodo's features; very elegant. As for Steven's wardrobe . . . hm, maybe a light yellow or tan/khaki? Or a green/blue? Sometimes colorful sims can be infuriating to dress properly.

I'll have a go with those ideas. It may be a few chapters before you see any changes, however.

Chapter 7: The Rescue



Betabee: Hello Dodo. Who's this?
Dodo: This is Todd.



Dodo: He's my boyfriend as of today.
Betabee: You mean he's some guy you found outside the diner?



Dodo: Of course. And he's my fiancee now, so be nice.
Betabee: Ah, how quickly young love progresses.
Dodo: Well, I'm a lab tech now, so I'm free to do as I please.



I'll try and ensure all the spares have a chance at a family before they leave the house. Luckily this dynasty leaves a lot of scope for extended family trees.



Betabee: Ah, are you off already Dodo?
Dodo: Yep. I'd like to have a go at NPC life.



Dodo: Plus, there isn't room in the house for Todd and me and any family.



Betabee: OK. I'll check up on you when I can.
Dodo: Do.



Inspired by his sister, Steven also decided to move out to 'find himself'. He may return later on if story progression is unkind. Watch this space!



Betabee: Who's this?
Jess: This is Liam. He's my boyfriend.
Betabee: Ok, but you do know you can't go on NPC adventures like Dodo, right?



Jess: I know. And Liam understands. But we do want kids, so you don't mind If one or two spaces are filled?
Betabee: That's fine. Just leave space for the next heir.



Unfortunately, one of Susan's required best friends died, so . . .
Susan: Hello, random vampire. Here's a best friend elixir. Now please don't do anything silly like become vegetarian or start sunbathing for the next few weeks, ok? Bye-bye.



The family's finished buying up hidden springs, so I decided to remake a couple of bedrooms.



This is Jessica's room. . .




 . . . and these two shots are of Susan and Sebastian's new room.



Jess: Aww, nooboo!
Betabee: It'll be interesting to see whose features the baby gets.



Since Susan has limited time to max her job, I have come to despise weekends and holidays. Except when they mean Dodo invites Susan to a party, a good opportunity to check up on the family.



Dodo's clearly pregnant, unless she's gone for the NPC clothes very quickly.



Susan: NPC clothing person: Why am I wearing this? It doesn't make sense as an outfit and it's silly.



Susan: I mean, you gave Sebastian a cooler outfit.



Susan: Even Steven got a zebra outfit! (Which kind of suits him actually . . .) Frustratedly, Susan Riversong.



Sebastian managed to convince Steven to kiss someone, so hopefully he'll be able to beat the non-effective story progression.



Susan: Hey, I wonder what you're going to name my niece or nephew?
Dodo: We'll let story progression name it. It should come up with something totally random and unique.

Next time: Susan finishes her requirements . . . but how soon?

[Nettlejuice]

Hope to see Steven and Dodo's new families soon, I'll miss them. Yay, Jess is having a nooboo ^_^

[betabee]

Hope to see Steven and Dodo's new families soon, I'll miss them. Yay, Jess is having a nooboo ^_^

Steven and Dodo are unique and interesting individuals, I think I'll miss them too. I have saved them to my simbin, just in case they try skipping town. 

Chapter 8- Planet of Giants



Betabee: Sigh. . . I thought we could have avoided this.



Susan: I know. If it hadn't been for my borther and sister graduating, I probably could have managed to finish everything before this happened.
Betabee: Well, at least you've only got to finish your career off. And it's only one level left.



Later that day . . .
Susan: What are you wearing, Sebastian?
Sebastian: Well, I'm an undercover agent now. This is my intrepid disguise.
Susan: Oh, are the latest criminal masterminds planning to use the bistro as their secret base?
Sebastian: I should hope not- we own the bistro, right?
Betabee: It says so on the notes.



Susan: Anyhow, now I've finished with my career, I'm done with elderhood for now.




Susan and Sebastian start off the next generation . . .



. . . and Susan gets a new makeover to celebrate her finishing her requirements.



(also because I can't be bothered to copy her previous wardrobe exactly.)



Jess:OOOWwwwww . . .
Betabee: I take it the baby's on its way?



Soon enough, Polly arrived into the world.



One cake later . . .
Betabee: Jess, are you sure that's your baby? She looks nothing like you.
Jess: Erm, if the previous screenshot isn't evidence enough, check the family tree. Let's get her to a dresser.



Polly looks very much like her father (Liam O'Dourke), though the source of the black hair remains a mystery.



Polly's a smiley little girl with a strong love of lilac. She may (or may not) marry into the main family at some point- I'm currently undecided. She may also get siblings at some point, depending on house space.



Susan: So the next heir's on the way. Speaking of children, has my sister given birth yet?
Betabee: She has! It's a boy called Monte. I'll try to obtain screenshots when he's grown up a bit so we can see what he looks like.
And now, a succession of cute Polly screenshots.













Jess: Who's a pretty Polly then?
Polly: I am, but I'm not a parrot, so please dispense with the Polly-related jokes.
Betabee: That's disappointing. I had a load of geometry jokes to use . . .
Polly: Oh, fine. Just limit them to one a chapter, ok?
Betabee: Yay!



Time is passing for our founders.



It's sad to see Nick's lovely shade of brown hair go, but it lives on in his daughter and son at least.



Nick: So do we founders get watcher approved makeovers this time?



Betabee: Of course. Except I lost the Normalwear shot. Sorry!
Nick: Tut tut. I guess the forum readers will have to wait until next time to see it.

Next time: More birthdays, and the arrival of the second heir!

Susan's special stats:
Career: Law Enforecement (Forensic branch)
Best friends: Blake Greyson, Davy Cho
Skill challenges: Brushmaster, Proficient Painter, Master Painter
Blackops: The business of Decor, Broadway cameo, Deliver a painting to china, Hard core training.

[Trip]

Polly's cute! I love how green her eyes are.

Can't wait for the new heir.

[Nettlejuice]

Susan is as beautiful as ever. Welcome Polly, those eyes are amazingly green - love them!

[Rhoxi]

Whoah, those eyes are super green! They almost look like a save preset or something, or are they the dad's?

Yay for Susan and the incoming next gen!

[Tilia]

Yay, all caught up.  I am stunned at how big a difference a lot of your sims experience physically between teen and young adult.  I guess you need time to grow into all those custom features

[betabee]

Polly's cute! I love how green her eyes are.

Can't wait for the new heir.

Susan is as beautiful as ever. Welcome Polly, those eyes are amazingly green - love them!

Whoah, those eyes are super green! They almost look like a save preset or something, or are they the dad's?

Yay for Susan and the incoming next gen!

Polly's eyes are lovely. I think they're probably a save preset- I checked her father's eyes in a separate file.

Yay, all caught up.  I am stunned at how big a difference a lot of your sims experience physically between teen and young adult.  I guess you need time to grow into all those custom features

I think the genetic variation in hidden springs is brilliant so far- All the children so far in the house have been brilliantly unique and diverse, which I think is awesome. :-)

Chapter 9: The Time Meddler



We start with another birthday.



Sebastian: Sigh.
Betabee: What's wrong?
Sebastian: Oh, just feelings of impending death and suchlike.
Betabee: Will a makeover help you feel better?




Sebastian: Yeah. And I've got some aqua in there this time!



Nick finally retired from his journalist job. It means he can stay at home to help look after Polly, generation 2 and any other children (though house space may be a bit tight once generation 2 is born).



Speaking of generation 2. . .



Hey, it's another greenboo! Meet Barbara, everyone!



Barbara was quickly caked up to toddlerdom. (I really love that we can cake up babies in this dynasty!)



She looks a lot like her mother, with the same hair and skin colours. That eye colour is definitely one of the custom ones I saved earlier.



(Thankfully) Barbara's favourite colour is green, which works quite well with the skin colour (unlike white).
Susan: Oi! I heard that!



Next it was Jess' turn to grow old.




I quite like how Jess looks as an elder. I may age her down again at some point, since her alchemy and potion making skills are useful. Plus she may have more children somewhere down the line.



Barbara: So, is this where you show off a slew of cute pictures of me?
Betabee: Erm, actually we've got other stuff to cover in this chapter. Next time, ok?
Barbara: Okay.



Polly: So when do I get to have a birthday again? Birthdays are fun.



Jess: Once you've finished your toddler skills, darling.
Polly: But this is the last one, right?



Jess: Yep. It's cake time!



Polly: Soo many sparkles . . .



In response to questions about Polly's eye colour- It's another custom colour saved on my computer.



It's certainly not from her father- I checked Liam's eye colour in a new game, and this is what he looks like without the glasses. Polly definitely inherited his mouth.



Betabee: Well, that's your wardrobe done. The spare room is yours for the moment. I can do a redecorating if you want.
Polly: Nah, I'm fine with the fish theme for the mo. Thanks for the offer though.



Instead of remaking the spare room, I spent a bit of time redoing the living room.




I used this as a good opportunity to experiment with the new furniture and wallpapers from Island Paradise.



Finally, a shot of Nick's Normalwear to make up for the missing screenshot at the end of the last chapter. I think the waistcoat suits him quite well.

Next time: Toddler cuteness and extended family.

[butterfly]

Those custom eyecolors are just awesome, I love seeing deep blue and green eyes in my town Welcome, generation 2 and happy birthay everyone

[Nettlejuice]

Happy birthday, everyone! I love how Liam and Polly's lips give them a permanent smile.

[betabee]

Those custom eyecolors are just awesome, I love seeing deep blue and green eyes in my town Welcome, generation 2 and happy birthay everyone

I've always found most of the preset eye colours are too dull, hence the introduction of customs. I've got a few shades of purples saved there as well.:-)

Happy birthday, everyone! I love how Liam and Polly's lips give them a permanent smile.

It's quite an interesting feature- it'll be interesting to see how Polly looks with it once she's all grown up.

Chapter 10- Galaxy 4



Nick: Come on barbie . . . come to grandpa.
Barbara: No. I dislike the nickname barbie. It brings too many negative connotations.
Nick: *sigh*. Watcher, why don't you check out what the rest of the house is up to while I try to convince this one that walking is a good idea?



Forum: Steven!



Sebastian: Hey Steven. How's life?
Steven: Well, I still have a disturbing lack of love life. Does the watcher mind if I move back in?
Betabee: Not at all! Welcome back!



Steven: Okay. Now I've quaffed an elixir, I'm ready to go find the One! (and maybe move out the spare room . . .?)
Betabee: Sorry, you can't move out the spare room yet- we don't have enough bedrooms. You'll simply have to share a room with Polly for the time being.
Steven: Oh well. Can I begin my quest to find my true love now then?



Betabee: In a moment. But first . . .



Cassidy: I'll take a moment to retire to the corner before I pick my new outfits, ok?
Betabee: Fair dos.



Cassidy looks plain weird with grey hair, so we made the joint decision to fool the world into thinking she's just an adult with back problems.



Cassidy: I guess this will do. Can I go back to watching telly now?



We rejoin Steven in the library.
Steven: Hi, I'm Steven. And you are . . .?
Francisca: Francisca Vanderburg- I believe my brother's wife is your sister.
Steven: Hmm. Small world.



Steven: Do you ever get the feeling that, as a spare, your wishes and dreams are sidelined in favour of the heir's wishes?
Francisca: I get that all the time! My parents always used to dote on Sebastian, especially when he got into a Watched house, though he doesn't enjoy being watched at all.
Steven: I like you. Will you marry me and have my children? (Not necessarily in that order.)
Francisca: I'd love to. I always thought I would die childless because of story progression.



Their relationship advances quickly . . .



. . .to boyfriend/girlfriend. However, now Steven's moved in, we have eight in the house, so their relationship can't progress any further for now.



They do decide to start a family, though. Extended family FTW!



Susan: Barbara, would you please come here?
Barbara: Okay.



Susan: Why didn't you walk over before.
Barbara: You didn't ask nicely enough before. Nor did grandpa.



Susan: So, what do you want to do when you're older?
Barbara: I want to write. It seems like a worthy occupation, to record a lyrical stream of words for others to peruse and enjoy . . .
Susan: Yeah, she's going to be a writer alright.
Barbara: Or not to be a writer, but to question and challenge people through the medium of literature.



Barbara: A horse, a horse, my small amount of pocket money for a cuddle-sized pony!
Betabee: Aww, she's already misquoting Shakespeare.



Betabee: And that's the last of the toddler skills finished! To the cake!



But first, Steven becomes an adult. He may get youth potions/tattoos later on so he can spend more time with his fair lady.



Susan: I've already got enough LTHP for the right gravestone, so I guess no more toddlers for me.
Betabee: No, sorry. We don't have enough house space, anyhow.
Susan: Don't worry. One is quite enough, especially when it's this one. Besides, I can always go and visit my brother's toddlers, and have the auntie's joy of handing them back at the end of the day!



Barbara: Who thought of putting candles on flammable objects like cakes? You strange strange people . . .



Susan: Well, we can't extinguish them and make the place safe if you don't blow as well.



Barbara: Gosh! I'm wearing so much re I almost resemble uncle Steven!
Steven: *clears his throat in the background*
Barbara: Not that that's such a bad thing. Regardless, a dresser visit wouldn't go amiss.



The island paradise plaits go with the imaginative writer look I'm trying to establish.
Barbara: Well, plaits are useful for keeping the hair out your eyes when running away from angry treasure hunters.



Barbara has a wide range of clothing, reflecting her diverse and wide imagination.

Next time: childhood!

[Nettlejuice]

Welcome back, Steven! I'm happy you got him back, I think story progression would have given him a sad existence :[ Happy birthday to Cassidy and Barbara - her face before blowing the candle is priceless! Her ponytails really suit her well.

[Rhoxi]

Yeah, I don't blame Barbara; I wouldn't want to go by "Barbie" either. She's quite the precocious little tot! Also, Sebastian is a great looking elder, just adorable.

[betabee]

Welcome back, Steven! I'm happy you got him back, I think story progression would have given him a sad existence :[ Happy birthday to Cassidy and Barbara - her face before blowing the candle is priceless! Her ponytails really suit her well.

Steven's such a wonderful character- it would have been a shame to abandon him to story progression. :-)

Yeah, I don't blame Barbara; I wouldn't want to go by "Barbie" either. She's quite the precocious little tot! Also, Sebastian is a great looking elder, just adorable.

I think Sebastian looks like quite a cheeky grandpa as an elder, he's quite a fun-looking individual!

Notice:

My RL is quite busy at the moment- I'm currently trying to write a novel for Nanowrimo, as well as applying for a summer job and of course working on my degree. Therefore I have decided to put both my current stories on a temporary hiatus until things get less busy (probably sometime in the new year after my January exams). I'm not sure I could continue giving you the same quality of stories if I continued doing all these things at once, but these stories will resume, never fear! Thankyou for all the wonderful comments and for reading my stories so far.
Barbara: We will be back. Even if I have to write it myself.

[Rhoxi]

Sounds like a big project. Good luck!

[betabee]

Another update about when I'm updating:

I'm going to try and post an update a week, either for the Scientias or the Riversongs (not two in a week as I did last term), depending on which I've been playing. These updates will probably occur Sunday evenings, so keep your eyes peeled (or check Monday morning!).

[betabee]

Though you do get a new chapter tonight for being such good and patient readers! (and also because I've gotten the hang of photobucket . . .)

Chapter 11- The Myth Makers

And we're back!





Since Barbara is now a child and we have plenty of funds, the nursery has been remodelled into a bedroom more to her tastes. I don't anticipate any more children in the household for a while, and Steven and Polly are sharing the fishy spare room for now (unless I decide to remodel it, but not yet- it's a cool room! Suggestions for new spare room themes would be appreciated to give me remodelling inspiration).



Barbara: Auntie Jess, why do I have to learn maths? I'm probably never going to use it . . .
Jessica: You might want to look back on the difficulty of this as inspiration for your writing. All adventurers must overcome adversity, including maths homework.



Barbara's skill challenges will all come from writing, so she's starting off as soon as possible so she can (try to) get it done before adulthood.
Barbara: Don't underestimate my writing speed. I can totally win Nanowrimo!
(If you're interested, I lost Nanowrimo spectacularly after getting a really bad cold/fluey thing in the middle of november. I'll try again next year!)



In other news- after a quick inspection of the family tree, a visit to Dodo and company is arranged after seeing that Monte is now a child.



It's hard to tell in this picture, but I think Monte might have his mother's hair. I'll try and get a picture of him when he ages up to see who he resembles and suchlike.



I decided to feed Jess a young again potion before she got near the danger zone, since I'm planning on having her around the house for a good while yet.



Jessica: What in the world am I wearing?
Liam: You look lovely no matter what you're wearing, darling.
Jessica: Even so- Watcher? Dresser?




I think the larger hair suits Jess quite well.
Jessica: I agree. And thanks for the appropriately green outfits. It's so nice to feel young again. . .



Betabee: Well, this will make you feel old again. Polly's birthday has come around!



. . . well, that didn't go to plan.



Firefighter: Not another cake fire! What do they put on these candles? Petrol?



Barbara: So what made you decide to become a firefighter?
Firefighter: Well, mostly story progression, but I did also think it might be a good method of meeting women to date. It hasn't turned out too successfully so far . . .
Barbara: I think you can't trust cultural depictions of dangerous jobs since they tend to get romanticised and that takes away the grim reality of . . .
Betabee: Shall we cut to the second attempt at Polly's birthday before Barbara goes into English essay mode?



Polly: I wish for . . . a distinct lack of butt fires.



Polly: Meh. It's not too bad- the skirt's the right colour at least.



I've no idea where she gets most of her colouring. Her features are mostly her father's apart from the shape of her face, I think. She's quite a mix of her parents.



The lilac continues, as before.
Polly: But not in my room. Surely I should have a more individual room by now?
Betabee: Fine. I'll work on redecorating the spare room, but you and Steven need to talk about how you want it decorated. Suggestions for room themes the two of them might like should be left in the comments!

[betabee]

Chapter 12: The Ark



We open this chapter with happy news- the extended family is extending!



Despite Toby not being a greenboo, he's still a very sweet kid- and as a fairy he should have a good lifespan despite the age settings. It's so sweet that faeboos sparkle . . .
Steven: Are you getting soppy, Watcher?
Betabee: I'm perfectly allowed to be a soppy individual, and it's my personal opinion that the world would be a better place if more people were gentle and soppy old lumps.



Barbara's teenage years arrived remarkably fast.



Barbara: Watcher? Why did you have to take a screenshot at this highly unfortunate moment?
Betabee: Sheer dumb luck.



Steven: Woot! My niece isn't just a stretched version of her child self!
Barbara: Thanks . . . I think.




Due to the amount of time Barbara spent in front of a computer screen as a child, it seemed appropriate that she obtained glasses to assist with her short-sightedness. She does seem to really ressemble her mother looks-wise.



Barbara: I thought I'd have gotten past the maths homework by now . . .
Polly: Calculus isn't so bad. It's just a set of logical rules to follow to arrive at a solution . . .
Barbara: But I can't remember all the rules!
Polly: You could try deriving them from first principles?
Barbara: I guess. But that would take ages and I'm not sure I quite get that either.
Polly: Hmm . . . We've got a long way to go with this, I fear.



A few days later, Steven's second child arrived.
Betabee: What colour is it?



Woot! A greenboo!
(Toby, I apologise in advance that you won't get nearly as much Watcher attention as your brother. But you'll at least have the consolation prize of having a nice long life, right?)



And so, child #3 is on the way! (I plan for Steven and Francisca to have about 6 children, then Steven will move out of the main house to be with his family.)



Susan: Ah, sparkles again. Can I have another youth potion?
Betabee: Erm, nope. You remember the moving requirements, right?



Susan: Oh. There goes my youth then. *sighs, then begins a midlife crisis*



Steven, on the other hand, is still required to extend is family. (Besides, if he aged and died it would break Francisca's heart. And think of the children!)



Steven: What is it with the sparkles ruining my hair? Do they have an intense hatred of afros or something?



Life continued as normal for the next few days, until the day before Polly and Barbara's prom night, which is when I recieved this notification.

Betabee: Well, what do you think, Polly?
Polly: I don't know Monte that well- we shared a few classes, but not much other than that. What do you think? Should I go out with my (sort of sister)'s cousin?
Betabee: I think it would be excellent to get dodo's side of the family to have more kids for the two of you to get to know each other better. Off you go!



And so, dear forum viewers, here is a good look at Monte Riversong, the son of Dodo and her husband Todd. He definitely has his mother's (and grandmother Cassidy's) hair. Woot!



Monte: I think you're a lovely person, Polly. Would you consider going to prom with me?
Polly: I'd love to. 





Polly: I'm glad I got the chance to spend time with you, Monte. It's so interesting to hear about growing up in an unwatched household.
Monte: Similarly, it's been brilliant to get to know you better.



Unfortunately, my obervance of their date was interrupted by the random death of a paparazzi. I returned to observing Polly and Monte. It was a short while before I noticed the other happenings on the home lot. . .



 . . . because I thought the music and so on was for the paparazzi, I remained blissfully unaware of Sebastian's ghosthood until I glanced at the relationship panel.



So while the family was mourning the death of the random woman on the front doorstep, none were aware of Sebastian's quiet and uneventful death.



Sebastian: Maybe it's for the best. Watcher, give Susan my love, will you? I'm off to greener pastures.
Betabee: I will. Farewell.

[Trip]

Caring for the paparazzi's death more? What a family!

Congrats on Steven's greenboo and general pollination efforts.

[betabee]

Caring for the paparazzi's death more? What a family!

Congrats on Steven's greenboo and general pollination efforts.

Paparazzi are people too! Though I agree it's weird they would mourn Alice (the paparazzi) rather than Sebastian. Alice's death is more important than a member of your family dying?! What?! These sims are strange.
Steven is doing a stellar job, it must be said.

Chapter 13- The Celestial toymaker



Jessica: Ah, you must be the new paparazzi.
Paparazzi: H-how could you tell?
Jessica: My superior powers of deduction. I see by your ridiculously mismatched clothing that you must be an NPC, plus you've been lingering around the front door for a while now. Ergo . . .



Given Monte's attraction to a certain young lady, it was inevitable that he would visit the house sooner or later.
Barbara: So, what are your intentions towards Polly, dear cousin?
Monte: Erm . . . to take her to prom, I guess . . .? I hadn't thought that far ahead yet really.
Barbara: (giggles at her cousin's discomfort) Hey, don't worry about it too much, you numpty. Though I think you'd get brownie points with the Watcher if Polly married into the main family.
Monte: Hmm . . .



After finishing their homework, Monte spent some quality time with his gran . . .



 . . . while Barbara and Polly headed off to prom. (Monte went with Polly to prom, since all the notifications showed up, so we must assume he used a TARDIS to be in two places at once.)



Barbara: A victory for nerd-girls everywhere, methinks. Woot!



Steven's third child was born that night also. Quiana was born with normal skin colour.



We should take this opportunity to examine the development of the other two children Steven has fathered. Jarrett looks as if he will ressemble his father a lot . . .



 . . . and here's Toby as a teenager. (Steven's got some quite strong facial genetics . . .)



Polly returned from prom as Monte's girlfriend, and to a birthday cake.



Polly: Well, it could be worse. I really need a bigger headband though . . .



After fully equipping Polly with a clothing set any NPC would kill for, Polly's only remaining purpose in the house is waiting for Monte to grow up so they can marry and live a happy, un-watched life.



 . . . but in the meanwhile she's getting a job in science (LTHP for Jessica, even though she doesn't really need it.)



The Riversongs have reached a point where they are taking over the town- Polly's new boss is her future mother-in-law, Dodo. (She looks quite sad without the greeny-black hair of her youth.)



In other news, due to watcher oversight Nicholas has completed one of Barbara's intended skill challenges (the earning lots of writing money one) by being a bit too alive to not recieve royalties. Therefore, emergency measures of a guitar and tabcast have been introduced so Barbara's last challenge can be the learning all compositions one, which should be easy.



Speaking of skill challenges, Barbara is well on her way to writing 20 science-fiction novels, a few of which have been salvaged for the collection. I will provide a list of her works later on, since some of the titles may provide amusement. (if you're a whovian. they may be confusing otherwise)



Soon enough, it was time (the weekend after prom) for Barbara to have a cake and leave school behind.



Barbara: Woah . . . this hair reminds me of a time-travel novel or two.



Gah! Blinked! Barbara, you know what happens to people who blink at the wrong moment, right?



I tried to dress her in a journalist-y sort of outfit (since that's what she's going to do for a job), but I'm unsure how it went. Does she look a bit too much like Rita Skeeter? Especially in her normal outfit? Hmm . . .



Steven's kids update time! Our first glimpse of Quiana (seen here on the left). She's far cuter in-game.



And for your enjoyment- a glimpse of Jarrett as a child! He has his uncle Sebastian's hair.



It took a day or two, but Monte grew up very quickly after his cousin.



However, I don't have enough screenshot space left in this update to do their wedding justice, so you'll have to be satisfied with them on a date. (Yes, I know you're miffed, Polly. But it'll be on soon, I promise.)



And finally, another of Jessica's adult birthdays passed in the bathroom. (I really need to put up some lights in there . . .)

Next week: Love and Sadness.

[hazelnut]

...by being a bit too alive to not receive royalties.

Nice phrasing  .  Glad to see I'm not the only one messing up the intended challenges.

[betabee]

Nice phrasing  .  Glad to see I'm not the only one messing up the intended challenges.

It feels a bit bad to be wishing for a sim to die faster, but at least this happened early on- it gives me more time to plan around it.

Chapter 14: The Crusade



We start with the news that Barbara's new boss is none other than her aunt by blood (and soon also her aunt by marriage!).



Polly: Hello Monte! I have a very important question to ask you . . .



Polly: Will you marry me? (at some point in the future when there's enough house space for us to move in together with a child on the way)?



Monte: I'd love to! Pick the date, and we can continue our little branch of the family tree!



Monte and Polly aren't the only romantic pair around the town.
Jarrett: Why on earth did I follow mum here? Eeewww parents are gross!



As for Barbara's love life? Well, after a quick trip to egypt for an opportunity (and to finish off a skill challenge) . . .



 . . . she started scouting out some of her co-workers.



Barbara: Ah, hello Charles. Mind if I interview you?



(Maybe we should make this a tip on general dynasty threads- the journalist's interview ability makes it oh so easy to find out traits and thus identify good spouse material.)



Given that Charles is an original townie, I guess I could have found out all this from the internet. However, my computer isn't good at running sims and the internet at the same time. Despite this, Barabara's investigative skills helped me quickly conclude that Charles and Barbara would probably be very happy together, what with the similar traits and all.




To whit . . .



Charles: Do you ever get the feeling you're being watched? (glares in direction of watcher)
Barbara: All the time. Mostly because I'm in a watched household.



Barbara: Are you okay with living in a watched household? I'm currently the heir to a dynasty.
Charles: I guess so. I mean, it's not like I have that much experience of being in one.
Barbara: OKay. It's just, my mum didn't warn my dad before he moved in. I always go the feeling he resented the fact that he didn't know the facts.
Charles: Well, thanks for the warning I suppose.



Barbara: Would you like some flowers?
Charles: Ooh, nice scented flowers! Thankyou!
Barbara: I didn't realise they were scented . . .
Charles: It's far easier for werewolves to detect- these are a lovely delicate fragrance . . .



Barbara managed to finish off her final skill challenge of writing 20 books under the watchful eye of her boyfriend's pet kitten.



As promised, here is a summary of all the books Barbara has written. She may write more sci-fi books in future, but it's now of far less importance. Her job comes first for now!



The family collection is more-or-less complete. All it needs now is time so Susan's paintings can accumulate wealth so that it hits the money target (which should be easy enough).



Soon enough, another two of Steven's children arrived. He now has five children with Francisca, so will stop there (It would be very unfortunate if Steven were unable to marry his lady love because of house space issues. :-( )



Cindy was born a normal-coloured sim, but Katherine, seen here, is another greenboo! Huzzah!

***Random extras for your enjoyment***



Jarrett is obviously an extremely bright young man to have a degree at his age. (Or the difficulty of exams has got a lot easier in recent years!)



After the recent incident with less than unique skill challenges, I decided to create myself a master spreadsheet of all the skill challenges available in-game to make plotting the next 14 generations easier. I'm using green writing for ones i'm counting, orange backgrounds for ones in reserve, and red backgrounds for invalidated ones (Nicholas! Grr . . .).

Next time: Yes, I didn't get onto all the stuff I said would happen next time last time. I guess next week's update is going to be quite busy . . .

[hazelnut]

Still grinning at the book titles (particularly the Welsh quarry guide and So Long and Thanks for All the Hits)

(Maybe we should make this a tip on general dynasty threads- the journalist's interview ability makes it oh so easy to find out traits and thus identify good spouse material.)

Questioning by police Sims is equally useful, of course .

And Jarrett is a seriously accomplished baby .

[betabee]

Still grinning at the book titles (particularly the Welsh quarry guide and So Long and Thanks for All the Hits)

Questioning by police Sims is equally useful, of course .

And Jarrett is a seriously accomplished baby .

I'm glad you enjoyed the book titles. :-) Good point about police questioning, though wouldn't it unnerve a poor unsuspecting sim if they were questioned by their intended's parent/s before being able to marry? I wonder . . .

Chapter 15: The Space Museum



Nicholas: Is it me, or has the local gravity gone a bit wibbly-wobbly?



Cassidy: Erm . . . I don't know how to break this to you, darling, but you're a bit greyer than usual.
Nicholas: Well, I haven't been using as much hair dye as I did in the past. I'd have thought you've have noticed that by now.



Nicholas: Seriously, why is everyone looking so concerned? I'm perfectly alright!



Nicholas: Well, that was sudden. I thought turning into a genie would feel different to this . . . (voice slowly fades out)
Cassidy: It's an urn, you silly man . . .



And so, the first tombstone for the moving requirements has been obtained. RIP Nicholas Riversong. You lived longer than expected or hoped for, but did a good job as a founder.



And so, with a space freed up within the house, Steven wasted no time moving out the nest.



Betabee: Do you, Steven Irving Riversong, take this woman to be your wife?
Steven: I do.



Betabee: Do you, Francisca Sophia Vanderburg, take this man to be your husband?
Francisca: I do.



Betabee: Then I pronounce you dynasty spare and spouse. You may kiss the bride.



Betabee: Well, I'm glad to see you moved somewhere with more room for the little ones.
Francisca: It was difficult for me and the three teens to fit in the shack. So I contacted my family and they helped me upscale.
Betabee: Wonderful. I hope you and Steven have a wonderful time together. I'll send people around to check on you from time to time. Bye!



After saying goodbye to one of Susan's siblings, it was time to turn attention to the other spare branch of the family tree. It's weird seeing Dodo without her mother's hair colour.



The next generation of the Dodo line was begun without further ado . . .



. . . and it was time for Polly to leave the house.



Betabee: Monte Vista Riversong, do you take this woman to be your wife?
Monte: I do.



Betabee: Polly Alicia Willow, do you take this man to be your husband?
Polly: I do.



Betabee: Then I pronounce you extended family member and helper's daughter. Have a nice life!



And so the house was down to four- and a quickly aging four . . .



Susan: I'm sure my back didn't hurt quite this much the last time I was this old . . .




Susan's last wardrobe has a few touches of blue to honour her late husband. I think the grey hair suits her quite well, don't you?



Betabee: Hey, Cassidy. How are you holding up?
Cassidy: Quite well. I know I'm quite a bit past my time, but it would be nice to see one more thing before I join Nick.
Betabee: Okay. Name it.
Cassidy: It would be nice to see my grandbaby get married?
Betabee: Erm, Monte got married this chapter?
Cassidy: No, no. Barbara. The heir?
Betabee: Can it wait until next chapter? I don't think I can do it justice with four screenshots.
Cassidy: Fine. But do get on with it-the mortal coil waits for no woman.
Betabee: Sir, Yes, Sir! (does the virtual equivalent of a smart salute, then goes off to load up the sims and get Barbara married)

[GoswaldtheGargoyle]

The fact that Monte's middle name is Vista makes me smile so much 

[Shewolf13]

Really loving this dynasty!  Hidden Springs is my second favorite town (after Dragon Valley) and I hold a soft-spot for the Freespirit household because Nick was my founder's spouse for my immortal dynasty and Jess is one of my longest-lived Sims to date (without any intervention of course XD)  So I loved seeing Nick as a Founder.  Also, loved the names and Who theme ^^  Definitely bookmarked.

[hazelnut]

Good point about police questioning, though wouldn't it unnerve a poor unsuspecting sim if they were questioned by their intended's parent/s before being able to marry? I wonder . . .

Well, it's supposed to be a friendly interaction - although I admit I usually wait until they're at least friends before using it.

RIP again, Nick .

And, of course, I have to join in the love for Monte's middle name  .

[betabee]

The fact that Monte's middle name is Vista makes me smile so much 

:-D  I enjoy giving my sims creative middle names (though I don't usually put them in the actual name boxes- it's more a spur of the moment thing when they get married.)

Really loving this dynasty!  Hidden Springs is my second favorite town (after Dragon Valley) and I hold a soft-spot for the Freespirit household because Nick was my founder's spouse for my immortal dynasty and Jess is one of my longest-lived Sims to date (without any intervention of course XD)  So I loved seeing Nick as a Founder.  Also, loved the names and Who theme ^^  Definitely bookmarked.

Thanks! I'm glad you're enjoying the theme (which makes it a lot easier to choose chapter titles and names of children . . . but being a whovian I can safely say that convenience isn't my only motive.    )

Well, it's supposed to be a friendly interaction - although I admit I usually wait until they're at least friends before using it.

RIP again, Nick .

And, of course, I have to join in the love for Monte's middle name  .

It was the only possible middle name for Monte. :-D

Chapter 16- Let's do the time warp again . . .

Glitches are one of the nastiest things known in the watcherverse. Especially ones that destory your ability to control your sims like this one . . .



Fortunately, the challenge team allowed me to go back to a previous save. UNfortunately, this meant going back to the end of chapter 14/start of chapter 15. Cindy and Katherine have been wiped from existance, Polly and Steven are as yet unmarried, and Nicolas has to die. Again.
So, this chapter is mostly a recount of how things went a bit differently this time around (and also to make up for the lack of a chapter on sunday (sorry! I was travelling!))



Barbara still managed to finish her last skill challenge of writing 20 books in record time.



Nicholas: Why do I get a strange feeling that this has happened before . . . ?
Susan: Maybe because you died last update as well?
Nicholas: What, that? That was just a small case of dizziness . . . I think. I can't remember it much.



One grave down, three to go. Here's hoping we won't be seeing you again, Nick.
Nicholas: I echo that sentiment. Dying once is enough for me.
You died twice.
Nicholas: One time to many, in my opinion.



I decided to vary the order of marriages this time.



So, with the line of Dodo secured . . .



 . . . Mr and Mrs Willow were promptly married and moved out again.
Monte: Erm, wouldn't it be Mr and Mrs Riversong?
Betabee: It doesn't work like that. She did the proposing and suchlike, so she gets to pass on her name.



The next morning, it was Steven's turn.



Quiana has grown up into a . . . unique young woman. I'm not entirely sure where her hair's from, but it reminds me a bit of Billy Caspian's hair, which I've saved as a preset. Hmm . . .



Steven's dopey wedding face is adorable, don't you think?



A new set of twins arrived for Steven and Francisca shortly after their wedding- Rosemarie and Liana.



With some space cleared in the house, it was time to increase the house size again.



Charles: What was that for?
Barbara: It's so you can move in. Are you alright with leaving Lycanthropy behind?



Charles: Sure. So, when can we get married?
Barbara: Hold your horses, Charlie- a wedding would seriously mess with my career. You don't mind waiting for me, do you?
Charles: Not at all.



Betabee: Hello, Charles. Have a Young Again potion.
Charles: Why thankyou. What next?
Betabee: A makeover. Though would you mind stopping by a body sculptor first? You're nothing but skin and bones!



Charles: Do I get any advice on dress codes, darling?
Barbara: Hmm . . . go with whatever, dear. The wardrobe is your oyster.
Betabee: And you're distracting her from her work, so get on with it!




Betabee: Thankyou, Charles, for having a nice easy favourite colour to work with.



Susan's elder birthday was marked with a cake this time around.
Susan: I wish for . . . no more glitches for the next few generations!



Susan: I trust you can restore my wardrobe to rights?
Betabee: Near enough, yeah.



Dear readers, a sight to behold- a vampire visiting and getting his own plasma juice from the fridge! Such a smart and intelligent chap.



Why is he over? Well, he and Jessica are trying for another child. (Though I am asking myself- why on earth am I trying to fill up the house again when I just emptied it a bit? Hmm . . .)

[legitpicklegirl10]

Wow am I happy that I found this dynasty! It suits me well, for I am indeed a Whovian. Also, its very unique because I've never seen anyone use Cassidy or Nicholas. And I really like your writing style.  It's intelligent but still humorous. Keep up the good work!  (By the way, sorry about that glitch! I know the feeling..)

[Malley]

Thank goodness my sister is a whovian so she can explain all of these references to me!  Nice job on your dynasty so far.  I love your interactions with your sims.  Too funny    I've had an experience with that same glitch on my decadynasty.  Not fun at all.  Good luck and fingers crossed for no more glitches or errors.

[betabee]

Wow am I happy that I found this dynasty! It suits me well, for I am indeed a Whovian. Also, its very unique because I've never seen anyone use Cassidy or Nicholas. And I really like your writing style.  It's intelligent but still humorous. Keep up the good work!  (By the way, sorry about that glitch! I know the feeling..)

Thank goodness my sister is a whovian so she can explain all of these references to me!  Nice job on your dynasty so far.  I love your interactions with your sims.  Too funny    I've had an experience with that same glitch on my decadynasty.  Not fun at all.  Good luck and fingers crossed for no more glitches or errors.

I'm glad you're enjoying reading this! :-)  I haven't been playing the riversongs lately since I'm trying to finish up my scientia dynasty, but will try and get back to it ASAP!

[Magpie2012]

I can't wait for this to be continued... But I am also enjoying the Science Lab so am in no rush!

[Nutella]

I'm moving this to the Stories Graveyard due to inactivity. betabee, you can revive this story by contacting a moderator.