William grabs the seat by Onyx while Carson and Darwin get the spots in front of the screen.
Darwin: I can’t believe we have to have more classes with Mrs H
William: She is the senior teacher
Onyx: And the senior grump
Carson: I’m always worried she’ll give me detention again
William: I thought you were getting help for the OCD
Onyx: Don’t need to have OCD to be worried about her, I’m worried about her. Darwin you’ve got to try curb your antics when she’s teaching us
Darwin: Now where would be the fun in that
Carson: How about not getting your friends sentenced with detention by association
Darwin: Fair point. Oh come on, who threw that banana?
Onyx bursts in to laughter and Darwin throws a cushion at them.
William: Good game folks. See you all at school tomorrow
Onyx: Yeah I better see if my parents are ready to go
Carson: Any headway with Anya lately
Darwin: *sighs* I wish, she’s left me on read for two days now. How about your girl
Carson: *laughs* She’s not my girl
Darwin: She’s pretty, maybe she should be you know? It doesn’t matter that she’s younger if you like her, that's what I tell myself about Anya
Harvey: I think that dinner was a success
Kayleigh: So do I! Oh Reece called while you were doing the dishes and he and Samir are fine to come stay. Plus I let him know Carson and Charlie know about the werewolf business
Harvey: Did Carson faint with shock
Kayleigh: *laughs* No so I guess we were wrong about that
Harvey: We’ll have to keep an eye on him during the visit. Make sure he doesn’t get stressed about a werewolf being under the same roof
Kayleigh: Will you be stressed
Harvey: Not if he gives me grandbabies
After his normal morning routine Carson was delighted to see a text from Ariadne pop up on his phone.
Ariadne: Great news! They’ve opened the rink at school
Carson: How is that great news
Ariadne: Because I’ve been dying to go ice skating so bring your skates
Carson: They weigh a lot
Ariadne: Never let a little weight put you off! I like things with a little weight to them
Carson: Okay, okay, I concede
At school the news of the rink opening had gotten around and several kids had brought their skates. Carson found Ariadne at the edge of the rink looking at them with awe.
Carson: Have you ever actually skated before?
Ariadne: Carson, you're here! When I was little my grandmother took me a few times but... it has been a while
Carson: Maybe it’ll be like riding a bike and you’ll remember
Ariadne: I hope so. I'd rather not fall on my butt in front of everyone
Carson: So... got a sparkly costume hiding under the coat
Ariadne: *giggling* Do you
Carson: Drat. You told me to bring skates, not my leotard, it's back home
Ariadne: Always good to leave something for next time
Carson: *laughs* I mean you’d look much nicer in a sparkly outfit than I would
Ariadne: I think you look nice anyway
Carson: Oh, really?
Ariadne: We ah- we better get on the ice or we’ll be talking until class starts
Carson: Ladies first
Ariadne was first on the ice out of the pair with Carson close behind. He may be asthmatic but he didn’t mind something slow like ice skating. He did his best to keep up with Ariadne but he did slip over once or twice. Luckily he was behind her so felt pretty confident that she’d missed it. As the bell rang and he headed off the rink to class he missed her also wiping out.
In art class Carson was glad to see Mrs T back. She was always much calmer and knew a bunch about art. As she gave a rather detailed analysis of perspective in art he felt his skill grow.
Down the hall in social studies it was a different story.
Artemisia: *whispers* Hey Roger, yo mamas so lazy she has a stay at home job and is still late to work
Roger: Shut up Emi, you know she’s a social worker. I’m not getting suspended again because you can’t control yourself
Artemisia: Only my friends get to call me Emi. Hey Roger, yo mamas so old she was a waitress at the Last Supper
Roger: Don’t think being a girl will stop me from punching you
Artemisia: Go ahead. My Pa will sue you until yo mama is so poor the ducks throw bread at her, oh wait, she already is
Luna (mummy) and Devin (mama) use some German and Italian.
Bambino/s (Italian) Male child/children
Caro/Cara (Italian) Dear
Grazie (Italian) Thank you
Nonna/Nonno (Italian) Grandfather/Grandmother
Prego (Italian) You’re welcome
Schnucki (German) Sweetie but doesn’t have an exact translation
Tante/Onkel (German) Aunt/Uncle
Zia/Zio (Italian) Aunt/Uncle
Luna is watering the garden and Devin is halfway through cooking the pancakes when the first guest rings the doorbell.
Alfred: Bell?
Devin: Must be Luna’s brothers
Joey: Ma and Pa wouldn’t have dragged Emisia out of bed by now
Luna: I’ll get it!
Devin: Okay bambinos, time to turn the tablets off. You need to say hi to your Tante and Onkels
Rilian: Why
Joey: Come on you two, I bet I can get to the door faster than you
The twins drop the tablets and push themselves up!
Devin: Works every time
By the time the visitors migrate to the kitchen Devin has finished the pancakes. We have Luna’s brothers Hugo and Max, although Max’s wife has decided not to come. Then we have Devin and Joey’s younger sisters Deanna and Artemisia, as well as their Ma and Pa who are Nonna and Nonno to the twins.
Devin: Chow time everyone
The family descends on the food, some grabbing the bagels while others opt for the fluffy pancakes.
Aaron: Does filming start tomorrow then
Devin: It does! And a pirate movie no less, they’re due a revival
Atremisia: You won’t get an accolade for it. You’re a one hit wonder
Devin: Grazie Emisia, your support brings tears to my eyes
Artemisia: Prego
Devin: Are the extensions holding up okay
Artemisia: They’ve grown out! This hair is all mine now
Aaron: And she is shedding it like crazy, reminds me of cleaning up all your hair
Devin and Artemisia: Gross!
Max: These bagels aren’t too bad Joey. If I were you I would have put some fire chillies in it
Luna: Yes Max, we know how you like to mess with people. Is Miriam coming by later
Max: Me and Miriam are going through a patch right now
Luna: Oh come here
Max: I don’t want a hug
Luna: To bad
Calista: Don’t tell me you didn’t get a girl last night
Joey: I got a woman ma, but she didn’t seem interested in staying the night
Calista: Well I hope you’re being safe
Joey: Of course I am, no surprise grandbabies from me
Luna: Alfred schnucki, can you please eat over your plate
Alfred: But Mummy, I shake off syrup
Max: I may have put too much on his plate
Luna: May?
Max: It was an accident! This time
Luna: Did you send your sample into the genealogy site
Max: I did, I don’t know why
Hugo: Because we want to track down some of mums relatives, I told you this
Max: She abandoned us. Why should we care about her family
Hugo: We don’t know that she abandoned us! Dad was involved with some very shady people. I can’t shake the feeling she got hurt
Max: Whatever. I sent the sample in
Joey: Looking good Emisia! How’s life
Artemisia: Nothing I can’t manage
Joey: You playing nice with the other kids
Deanna: She is not
Artemisia: How would you know
Devin: Lucky guess
Artemisia: If I’m not it’s because a jerk like Roger doesn’t deserve my niceness
Aaron: But we’re finished with fights, aren’t we cara?
Artemisia: *sighs* Yes Pa. I won’t hit someone… unless they hit me first
Calista: Emisia, you must try to control the evil impulses
Artemisia: Max how do you control your evil impulses
Hugo: I don’t think he does
Max: I know not to pick fights I can’t win
Rilian: Hmm
Alfred: Eat Ri, you not like pancakes?
Rilian: No
Alfred: But Mama made them special
Rilian: *shrugs*
Max: How much do you think a divorce lawyer costs
Hugo: You can’t be serious
Max: I’m just checking out my options. Aaron? Do you know?
Aaron: I’d try talking to your wife first. Rough patches don’t have to lead straight to divorce
Luna: Exactly. Try to work at your relationship Max
Joey: Or just swear off relationships. How about you Emisia? Anyone cute at school
Artemisia: Maybe. Why should I tell you
Joey: Because I’m asking nicely
Artemisia: Bit busy focusing on myself right now
Devin: *laughs* Oh I do that
Aaron: You inherited that from me
Luna: I’m just saying, there must be some reason you got married
Joey looks like he’s going to say something but Devin shoots him a warning look. Guess now’s not the best time to interject with knowledge of how mods work.
Max: Suppose, but there’s also a reason I got a prenup
Artemisia: Oh to be rich and have rich people problems
Deanna: Are you dancing Alfred
Alfred: I bob like hen Zia De
Devin: He does love his birds
Max: Why does it matter if we don’t work out anyway? It’s not your relationship
Hugo: You’re our brother, of course we want you to be successful!
Luna: Deep breaths Hugo, deep breaths. Just keep us in the loop Max, okay?
Max: I’ll think about it
Artemisia: *thinking to self* I must study his evil
We go to high school and see what impression Ariadne makes.
I have been dying to share this! Let's gossip about my sims! How do we see her getting on with the other played teens long term? Tell me, tell me, tell me!
The next day starts and Ariadne tries to mentally prepare herself for a new high school.
Milton: Are you nervous
Ariadne: A little, but I’m not going to let the other kids know that
James: You’ll do fine. Just remember, no matter what happens, you’ll still have us here after school
Ariadne: Thanks James. Getting to know new people can be hard for me
Milton: Me to. I normally try to geek out with them
Ariadne: Unfortunately I’m not a geek
James: But you have interests. Don’t be afraid to share them, how else will you learn who might get along with you?
Big hugs from everyone, even Alexander who manages to leave the computer, then Ariadne is off!
It’s a fine autumn day and many of the teens are making use of the roller rink. Ariadne however has other tasks that need attention.
Mr A: I’m Mr Amarynth, welcome to- Sterling!
Ariadne: Huh? Sorry I was just taking a commemorative selfie
Mr A: I see you will not be joining our academic success ranks, pity
Ariadne: Oh actually I do know a bunch of stuff. I got good grades at my last school and I did all the pre homework you assigned. I’m excited to be here
Mr Amarynth keeps his face in a look of disdain while Ariadne tries awkwardly to smile. When he doesn’t continue the conversation she figures she should take the initiative.
Ariadne: Is there anything I need to do before class
Mr A: Ms Hensley will be taking your class today, she should be in the main building. See my assistant on the way there and they’ll assign you a locker
The principal’s assistant gave the worlds vaguest directions but Ariadne can find the main building. Now what? Luckily a helpful Onyx swings by.
Onyx: Excuse me, you look lost. Need any help?
Ariadne: Yes I need to find the lockers and a Ms Hensley
Onyx rolls their eyes and beckons Ariadne to follow them, humming to themselves.
Onyx: Ms Hensley can be tough, I try to take no notice. My best mate Carson gets tense just seeing her though. Ah, here are the lockers. If they don’t have stickers it’s safe to assume they’re not taken
Ariadne: Thank you…
Onyx: Oh I’m Onyx
Ariadne: Ariadne, thanks for you help
Onyx: No bother. Ms Hensley will probably be in the library at this time. Good luck
Sure enough around the corner in the library is Ms Hensley.
Ariadne: Hi, are you Ms Hensley? Mr Amarynth said you’re going to be my teacher
Ms H: Normally yes, but it’s exams today
Ariadne: Exams? On my first day
Ms H: *sighs* teenagers. Not everything is about you, I have other students to tend as well. If you want to do well you’d best revise
So Ariadne has a seat and does her best to look over her notes from her preparation work. Would have been helpful for Ms H to have said what subjects the exams are for. When the bell rings Ms H introduces her to Briana who is tasked with taking her to class.
Ariadne: Hi! Do you like the outdoors? I love the outdoors
Briana: Yeah… inside is great
In her head Ariadne can hear the stereotypical wah-wah-wah noises.
Math is first, not Ariadne’s favourite. But James did help her with the pie charts so she manages to follow the questions. Between papers she tries introducing herself to people around her.
Ariadne: Hi there, I’m new
Anya: I noticed
Ariadne: Do you like fishing? I love fishing
Anya: I’ll fish in Stardew Valley
Ariadne: Where is that? Is it near Del Sol valley?
Anya laughs to herself and Ariadne can’t help feeling the girl seems immature. Many more students in the high school sea though. It’s hard to tell from where she’s sitting but she does feel a pair of eyes on her from time to time. She can’t sense any ghosts around so maybe it’s a classmate?
In the lunch line Ariadne has a quick chat with Scarlett who seems interested at the idea of coloured auras. Ariadne asks if she can sit with her at lunch but the teen has an art project to do. Scarlett does tell her to friend her on social bunny though. Nothing for it, Ariadne will have to sit down with strangers.
Ariadne: Hi everyone. I’ve met some of you but I’m Ariadne. I’ve just started. I live in Willow Creek with my dads Mr and Mr Goth
Carson: James Goth?
She turns to look at the brunette who responded. He seems to be squinting as if he needs glasses but he has a kind face.
Ariadne: Yes that is one of my dad’s first names
Carson: Sorry we’ve not met before. I’m Carson. My dad Harvey is in a fishing group with James. He says good things
Ariadne: Oh are you in the fishing group? J- my dad has been asking me to join
Carson: I love the outdoors but fish gross me out a bit
Ariadne: We could always watch them fishing and pick flowers instead
Carson: *laughs* sounds good. I’ll see you round then, I need to study
He leaves. Ariadne feels happy to have found someone like her. And he obviously knows she’s in the process of being adopted and didn’t out her to everyone. That’s nice. He's pretty cute to.
Ariadne pops over to Onyx to thank them again when another teen walks by. A teen with a dark aura.
Artemisia: Who are you
Ariadne: Uh… I’m-
Artemisia: *tuts* Not very bright are you
Onyx: Lay off, she’s new, her name’s Ariadne
Artemisia: Whatever your name is, you’re in my seat. Go bother someone else with your bad dye job
Sensing rising hostilities Ariadne decides to go sit by another boy from her class.
Roger: Met Artemisia then?
Ariadne: That’s her name?
Roger: Yeah. She’s a boar. Not to say that I make snap judgements or anything. She's popular but I don't see the appeal
Ariadne: I was getting a bad vibe from her. She doesn’t seem very generous
Roger: *sighs* forget her. Are you generous then?
Sensing the opportunity to flirt and distract herself Ariadne turns to face Roger properly.
Ariadne: I can be, with the right incentive. What about you
Roger: That would be telling. I’m happy to go over what our next exam is if you’d like, as a taste of my generosity
Ariadne: *giggles* I wouldn’t like, I’d love
Roger helps Ariadne out right up until the bell rings. Ariadne heads to class and grabs a seat by the window. At least she can be close to nature in this room.
Artemisia: Hi
Ariadne pulls her attention away from the window to see Artemisia sitting down beside her and she feels her stomach turn.
Ariadne: Hi. Look, I’m sorry about being in your seat before but that really was no reason to make fun of my hair
Artemisia: *shrugs* I make fun of everyone, it’s entertaining
Ariadne: Well in future, don’t make fun of me. My forgiveness only goes so far
Artemisia: *rolls eyes* Sure your ladyship. My aim in life is to stay in your good graces
Ariadne scowls while Artemisia giggles to herself and Ms Hensley hand out their papers. Ariadne does her best to fill out the paper but can’t shake the feeling that Artemisia is reading all her answers. At least she doesn’t know if her own answers are right so maybe that’ll trip up the girl. At last the bell rings and it’s time to pack up.
Artemisia: Bye dye job *winks*
Ariadne watches her go feeling flustered. Mean girls have no business being pretty and playing with people like toys. At the back of the room Roger is focused on his phone so she decides to hang back.
Ariadne: Hey you. Thanks for the help, I think I got a few of those right, even with Artemisia looking at my work
Roger: Yeah she totally was. It was clear from back here, I don’t know how Ms H missed it
Scarlett: We can afford to cut Ms H some slack. I heard her tell Mrs T she thinks the art room is haunted, she looked freaked
Ariadne: Is it actually haunted? Ghosts fascinate me
Scarlett: I think it’s just haunted by me really but you never know
The three chat about things going bump in the night and following some commemorative photos Ariadne invites them around to visit after dinner.
To ditch career day... or to not ditch career day...
CW: Distressed infant
Since Tiana cannot speak her thoughts will often be in brackets
While Eliza and Bob have taken infant leave from their jobs, there is no such option for the teens. Fergus and Onyx pop their heads into the nursery where Bob is still rocking a sleeping Tiana and kiss her goodbye for the day. Then school awaits!
It looks like the Pancakes may have missed the outfit memo for today, oops. While Onyx heads off to find some friends Fergus tries to hastily finish the homework he neglected to finish. Unfortunately his friends are not much help this morning.
Anya: I look fabulous, thank you watcher
Artemisia: Are you staring at my best bracelet friend
Darwin: What? No. I was looking for the bus
Artemisia: Looking for the bus while we’re at school, unlikely
Atlas: I don’t think he meant anything by it
Fergus: Hold up- what did you guys get for 13?
Artemisia: Look dude, just keep your eyes to yourself
Darwin: Sure, and you can keep your venom to yourself
Outside the main building Onyx and Paola have some time relaxing.
Onyx: Aim for the centre
Paola: Of course I’m aiming for the centre dummy
Zhafira: Onyx! Hey! Look who caught the bus again successfully!
Zhafira approaches the pair beaming happily.
Onyx: Congrats. Did you hear they’re shuffling classes today
Zhafira looks downcast while Onyx explains the younger and older students will be having combined classes for the morning. They'll be with some of their friends but not Zhafira who seems upset at having to get to know even more new people.
As this is happening Mrs Tinker and Mrs Hensley come over and try give Paola some tips for successful throwing. Unfortunately they have contrasting opinions and in the end the teens decide the safest option is just to pretend they’ve gotten bored and head inside.
Onyx takes a quick swim before class and still manages to get to the room before the teacher begins the lesson.
Mrs T: Today we will be buddying up. Older students please join a younger student and we will begin designing a business for this scenario
Onyx: Mrs T can’t I just buddy up with Amie since she’s beside me
Mrs T: Sorry Onyx but Mr A wants to foster whole school cooperation, that's why we're having staggered classes this morning
Carson: I wish William had been put in here
Darwin: Don’t worry, we’ll see him at lunch
Carson: And I wish some outfits didn’t make my glasses vanish, it's like I've been dressed by a computer
After class wraps up Fergus goes to talk with Artemisia.
Fergus: I’m excited to see what we’ll learn this afternoon
Artemisia: *sighs* Don’t be too excited, it’s career day
Fergus: You’re not punking me, we only just started high school. There is no career day
Artemisia: I’m serious. I’m also thinking of skipping out on it
Fergus: We can do that?
Artemisia: I reckon I can, question is do you have the guts to
Fergus: Of course I do. Onyx was still feeling ill this morning so we can use that excuse to head home
Artemisia: May the best person not be caught
Back home Eliza is carrying Tiana when the infant fusses to be put down.
Eliza: Okay then, down we go
Tiana: *coos* (I coo now mother) *coos louder*
Eliza: Was that a coo? Was that a coo? I think it was *claps*
Tiana smiles and sticks her fingers in her mouth. Mother is pleased, she must be doing well. Even though mother keeps saying the word go, Tiana is happy they haven't seemed to leave the house.
Eliza is busy feeding Tiana when Fergus walks through the room.
Eliza: Hold on! What are you doing home?
Fergus: Umm, Onyx’s head got bad again so we came home so they could get a nap
Fergus walks over to the suckling infant and holds her hand for a bit. Tiana doesn't seem to grip back yet but she's looking at him curiously.
Eliza: You came home so Onyx could nap? I don’t think so. Onyx is capable of napping by themselves
Fergus: Fine, it was career day! I don’t need to worry about that yet. I’ll do extra homework tonight I promise
Eliza burps Tiana who spits up down her back.
Eliza: Ugh. it's okay honey, we can clean that up
Fergus: Want me to grab a cloth
Eliza: Please. Now I do not want you skipping school again, but since you’re here you can walk Strawberry since you're keen to help Onyx
Fergus: But I want to- *sighs* yes mother
The house is left quiet for Onyx’s nap while Bob takes Ginger for a run and Fergus takes Strawberry for a walk.
Eliza: Come on my snuggly sleeper. You get comfy back there and you can nap while mother does her run
Tiana: *coos questioningly* (wait, no, not outside! I don't want to leave) *cries* (I want to stay with mother)
Eliza: It's okay Tiana, mother is right here with you. We're just going to check out the neighbourhood huh. You'll be okay
Eliza jogs off and keeps talking to Tiana. Eventually the regular bouncing of the back carrier and the softness of Eliza's voice lull Tiana to sleep. Eliza is delighted to hear a quiet snuffling snore at her back as she runs.
Later that day...
Fergus: Dad?
Bob: Yes
Fergus: Umm, Tiana is crying. Don’t you think you should go give her a nap rather than carry her on your back
Bob: But- she’s learning with me though
Eliza: Fergus is right Bob, she’s exhausted. Better giver her to me
Bob: But I want to spend time with her
Eliza: And so you can, when she’s awake. You know she had a hard night, she needs to catch up on sleep still
Bob: *sighs* fine. Here Tiana honey, go with your mother *whispers* I'll teach you how to cook later though
Eliza carries a grumpy over tired infant into the nursery and sits down with her in the rocking chair.
Eliza: There there Tiana, it’s okay, you just go to sleep
Tiana: *coos* (mother came back with me, I not left behind) *yawns*
Eliza: It's okay my sleepy girl, mother is right here and daddy is just down the hall. You can sleep, I'll keep you safe
Tiana does feel very tired and so she yawns and falls asleep in Eliza’s arms. It may not be winning a Nobel Prize but Eliza feels pretty proud of finding time in her schedule to snuggle with her daughter.
The teens decided to do their homework at their own desks tonight! Fergus was working away on some science as he has a class trip to the aquarium tomorrow. Onyx meanwhile did their best to study for their exams. After Onyx felt like they could confidently say they were no longer sick they went and did some cheer practice. Later in the evening Tiana woke up.
After a diaper change Eliza gets Tiana into a clean night onesie and goes in search of Bob.
Bob: Thank you for the suggestion. She’s given us so much joy already
Kayleigh: No problem at all I- oh is this her?
Eliza: *grinning* Kayleigh may I introduce our youngest? This is Tiana
Kayleigh: Oh she is precious
Bob: Come to daddy, did you have a nice nap
Eliza: She’s still quite tired, I think she’ll need a proper sleep after her bottle
Bob: We can do that
Kayleigh: I best get going, see you all later
Bob: Can you say bye bye to Kayleigh
Tiana: *coos and snuggles into shoulder* (daddy is here, mother found him for me)
Bob: *chuckles* okay, food time then
Bob is delighted to see Tiana has a healthy appetite. He prepares himself to be spat on but to his surprise only gas comes out. Snuggling Tiana close he carries her down the hall and places her in her crib. He softly tells her another tall tale and the exhausted infant falls asleep happy with the sounds of fellow sims.
Fergus concludes his birthday party and we get some news.
CW: Unicorn zombie with minor carton gore
Calista: Ready to lose all your sleep ins
Eliza: What do you mean
Calista: An adoption fell through at the last minute and my husband put you two forward before they had time to go to the waitlist
Eliza: Wait, really? You're not tricking me?
…
Aaron: So she’s an infant born this morning. There was a family set up but they got cold feet about not having access to parents medical histories so I just told them how reliable the two of you are together. She’s got African American descent so they were keen for at least one of the parents to match
Bob: Thanks Aaron, I really can’t thank you enough for this
Calista: Apparently the birth mother didn’t want to name her, she wanted to avoid attachment, but you didn’t hear that from me. Anyway better get brainstorming
Eliza: Oh Bob already has quite the list, trust me
...
Aaron: There’ll be papers but legally she’ll be seen as yours and Eliza’s from the get go
Bob: I’m sure we can handle not knowing the medical histories, we’re interested in her future. I know it’s selfish to want an infant-
Aaron: Hey, you can always adopt or foster an older one later on. You’re still bringing a child into your family, that’s generous no matter their age
Of course it is Fergus’ birthday party and he spends some time eating cake with his friends. Since aging up has already happened this rotation most of them are teens now to.
In the lounge the adults take over the TV.
Calista: Which button is the gas
Artemisia: Crash ma, crash!
Bob: It’s one of the right ones I think
Artemisia: It’s left ma! Other left! Watch out for-
Aaron: *sighs* You’re not being very helpful Emisia
Artemisia: *tuts* Blame Bob for not having enough seats at their table *leaves*
Eliza: There will be even less when we break the high chair out of storage
Artemisia: What are you doing out here
Beth: You’re all tall now, it’s weird
Artemisia: It’s not my fault that you’re younger than the rest of us
Beth: Whatever
And of course compulsory photos with friends! Chasity and Artemisia below.
Most of Fergus and Artemisia’s friends are born from in game couples. The first two below are Brianna Fryes and Drake Bheeda. Maybe people with better eyes can see the family resemblance but I cannot… Then we have Anya and Atlas
After the party Eliza heads out for a jog with Strawberry but when she gets home it’s Ginger who needs a bath? Keen to dust off her bathing small creatures skills Eliza takes her for a bath. Ginger is very appreciative, even if she shakes off a puddle into the corner.
When Eliza eventually gets to bed Strawberry feels like cuddles and wakes her up.
Eliza: Strawberry! Tomorrow is a big day, mother needs sleep, don’t wake up sleeping sims
Strawberry pretends to listen but she’s stubborn so I’m quite sure it makes no difference to her, especially since Eliza does cave and give her snuggles. Before going back to sleep Eliza decides to check on the dust bunny. Dusty gifts her a fire opal! Not wanting Ginger to feel left out of the snuggle-fest she cuddles her before heading back to sleep. Where is Bob?
It may be half past midnight but Bob is determined to finish his latest book. He’s not particularly good at writing but he needs to save up for his future restaurant.
Strawberry: *yaps* Play time dad, play
Bob: Sorry Strawberry, dad is busy just this second
Strawberry: *yaps* Ginger, come get dad to play
Ginger: *barks* Sure, oh... oh no... he’s on the computer!
To Bob’s confusion Ginger bolts out of the room and is followed by a curious Strawberry. Bob doesn’t have to much time to wonder on it though as he needs to keep writing.
Strawberry: *yaps* Why are we under here
Ginger: *whimpers* hiding
Strawberry: *yaps* Wait, what are we hiding from
Ginger: *whimpers* the computer
Strawberry: *yaps* come on, we’ll crawl out this side and we’ll be away from it. Let's comfort eat
Ginger: I suppose that's what dad does
Ginger reluctantly follows Strawberry out and does her best to forget that Bob is on the computer.
At 2:30 Bob finishes book number 4! He also reached writing level 4, hopefully soon he’ll be able to do more than self publish. Getting ready for bed he is giddy with excitement for his growing household.
Battle of the century or kids playing console games...
CW: Unicorn zombie with minor carton gore
Carson: You don’t think this will be too physically taxing do you
Artemisia: Only for losers
Onyx: Don’t worry Carson, there’s no exercise required
Fergus: I dibs the green car
Onyx: Is everyone ready
Artemisia: Oh would you just press start already
Onyx: First round goes to me!
Artemisia: That’s ridiculous, you must have given me the broken controller
Carson: Or you’ve been practicing, I get to pick next track. Strawberry Fields!
Fergus: Oh no I hate that one, I always get stuck in the strawberry jam
Onyx: Just follow along behind me Fergus and you’ll see a clear path okay
Fergus: Thank you Onyx
Artemisia: I always think it’s so funny how well-mannered you are
Carson: I would have thought you’d find that annoying
Artemisia: Nope, it helps us get out of trouble
Onyx: So see here Fergus, if you go between these two flowers there’s the fast launch ramp
Fergus: And no strawberry jam sinkhole!
Artemisia: Hold on, you’re not entitled to win
Fergus: Just try and stop me Emi
Carson: Come on Artemisia, let’s wipe the track with them
Onyx: Team Pancakes!!!
Kayleigh: I like to hear them play, the house is so quiet with just Carson now
Eliza: Bob and I have been thinking of trying for another one after Fergus becomes a teen. Bob would love a daughter
Kayleigh: And how about you
Eliza: Well I’ve never loved being pregnant but a third kid would be nice
Kayleigh: Sweetie I don’t mean to sound indelicate but have you considered adoption
Eliza: Adoption? Is that legal when I can get pregnant?
Kayleigh: It’s the 21st century, just because you can have them doesn’t mean you need to. Not that I can talk, I had four
Eliza: I suppose that way I would avoid the pregnancy impacting on my work
Kayleigh: And if Bob wants a girl you can tell the agency that, but you can’t tell your uterus that
Eliza: *chuckles* Good point, I’ll think about it. Oh, would you excuse me? The markets just opened in Tomarang
Kayleigh: Go ahead, you’ll not beat me at this chess match anyway
Eliza: Thanks for helping me learn more
Kayleigh: No problem, I’ll collect my husband and get out of your hair. Night
Kayleigh: Come on Carson, time to go
Carson: Just let us finish this last race mum
Artemisia: Oh it’s finished and I’m victorious
Fergus: Thanks again for helping me Onyx, I had a lot of fun. See you for my birthday Emi?
Artemisia: Sure thing, Tuesday right
Fergus nods excitedly and the dinner party disperses.
Happy very cloudy Halloween! The Pancakes decide not to have a party since they had one last night and Bob will need to work tonight. After a quick breakfast the household splits up as everyone has their own tasks to do this morning.
Bob of course wants to get his work out in before shift. Fergus is in a patch of hyper focus with his ADHD and decides to play mad scientist in the treehouse. Eliza decides to do a dance workout since she cleaned everything yesterday and finally Onyx is set to walk Ginger again.
Eliza is dancing away when she pulls a muscle in her back.
Eliza: Ouch! Oh, maybe an adoption is a good idea, I will be a 40 soon
Thinking on this she carries on, working on her other muscles. Outside it’s hard for Onyx and Ginger to make out where they’re running but the pair do their best. Ginger isn’t sure why her dad isn’t taking her for these jogs but supposes Onyx is an alright substitute.
Onyx: I’m back home dad, Ginger is all walked
Bob: *grunts with effort* Did you tell your mother
Onyx: No, she’s busy practicing speech and I didn’t want to disturb her
Bob: Smart choice
Onyx begins their cheer routine, they still have some more solo practice to fit in. All is going well until they fall over on their face. They push up looking around but Bob is busy working his legs and hasn’t noticed. To celebrate Onyx pulls off a perfect flip!
Carson can hear the music before he gets in the building. It may be freezing cold but as he steps inside the heat from students bustling about and dancing has warmed the place up. First port of call, the voting booth. He doesn’t recognise most of the names on the ballot, they’re probably the older students, but he does an obligatory tick for the ones he’s seen the most posters for. Turning around he searches for Onyx and finds them standing on the edge of the dancefloor.
Carson: Hey
Onyx: *pulls funny face* This is boring. Why are we here again?
Carson: blah blah important teen milestones blah blah
Onyx: Hmm, so how’d your appointment go? Feeling less... compulsive?
Carson: Not yet, it’ll take time I guess
Onyx: Did you talk to him about... you know? Wait was it even a him in the end?
Carson: It was a him called Chad
Onyx: Chad? A Chad that's a counsellor?
Carson: He looked like he’d taken a break from surfing to be there, but he was a pretty good listener
Onyx: Did he help with dating issues
Carson: Basically he was like, you’re young, don’t be stressing about woohoo right now, ask her out if you want. But he mentioned something called being asexual that I might look into
Onyx: Not to cut you short mate but Ariadne is heading your way
Carson: Very funny
Onyx: I’m serious, she's been glancing over at you and now she's walking
Carson: Wait- where are you going
Onyx: To see if Zharfira wants a dance, you got this
Onyx said a quick hi to Ariadne but sped off leaving Carson alone to talk to her.
Ariadne: Imagine seeing you here
Carson: *laughs* I’m sorry about jetting off this afternoon but I had scouts and the ferry can be a hassle
Ariadne: Oh? How long have you been a scout
Carson: Since I started school. My older sister Keira did it and it looked like fun so I gave it a go. I’m actually a Llamacorn scout, I’ve earned every badge there is to get
Ariadne: Very impressive. Do you want to grab a seat? It’s a bit loud just here
Carson nodded but he really wanted to say he’d love to.
The pair sat down and watched some of the other students dancing. William and Darwin were trying to master the robot while Onyx had managed to pull Zharfira on to the dance floor.
Carson: You look really nice Ariadne
Ariadne: Aww, thanks. Alexander wanted me to have a simple dress and save for senior prom but James let me go for the sparkly one. He says you only live once
Carson: Definitely the right choice
Ariadne: So I imagine it takes a lot of work to get to be a... what was it again? Llama scout
Carson: Ah, Llamacorn
Ariadne: What is a Llamacorn
Carson: Honestly, not certain. I imagine it to be a llama with a unicorn horn
Ariadne giggled and Carson felt himself get more confident.
Carson: Uh, I might grab a bite to eat, do you want anything?
Ariadne: Thanks but I’m okay, if I eat I’ll just spill it on my dress
Carson went to the buffet and looked over the offerings. The meat options looked dodgy, they were probably not stored at the proper temperature. No, no, they were food poisoning waiting to happen. But a desert? Surely a fruit tart would be safe. Turning back to the tables he noticed an unwelcome sim had moved near Ariadne and was talking to her. Squaring his shoulders, he returned.
Artemisia: If you wanted I could show- oh, Carson
Carson: Hi Artemisia. Would you like to join us
Artemisia: *scoffs* You're not here together. Ariadne you could do so much better than four eyes. Not leagues better but better
Carson: Aww, are my see through frames not fooling you? How sad
Artemisia: Ugh, why do you have to be so calm? It takes all the fun out of it
Carson: I’ve been dealing with your snark since we were toddlers, I can survive it
Ariadne: *surprised* You two go that far back?
Artemisia: We’re not friends but our siblings are so yeah, we know each other. Knew Carson here when he first begun to poop himself
Carson: You’re not my friend? I might cry
Artemisia: Shut up. You look like a marshmallow in that suit, pink and round. Haven’t you ever heard of exercise? Tell me you don't find him attractive Ariadne. I'd give him a 2 at most
Carson wanted to get back to flirting but Artemisia seemed content to stay and have Ariadne’s attention. It didn’t help that alongside her looks she could turn the charm on when it suited her. He didn’t think Artemisia really liked Ariadne, most likely she just wanted to annoy him. Eventually distraction arrived.
Roger: You ready for that dance Ariadne
Ariadne: *smiling* I’d love to
Carson felt his heart sink, why couldn’t he have offered first. He disliked dancing but the chance to hold her hand... But like normal Roger and Artemisia couldn’t be in talking distance without an argument occurring, and began to bicker over outfits before Ariadne could stand up.
As the bickering continued Carson took the opportunity to talk to Ariadne again. He may not get much more time tonight.
Carson: So, I mean, if you enjoyed the sun and sand today you could always stop by my house tomorrow? I live within walking distance of a ton of beaches and it could help you get some warm in before the school week
Ariadne: I-
Roger: You’re a piece of trash Artemisia!
Artemisia: Projecting again are we Roger?
Roger predictably stormed off and Ariadne got up to go after him, speaking over her shoulder.
Ariadne: Friend me on social bunny and I’ll let you know what my day is like
Artemisia: I will
Carson: She wasn’t talking to you
Artemisia: Keep telling yourself that, we know no one would choose you when I'm around
In this final part my evil one is now Artemisia, Deanna suffers through a bug and we get some new family photos!
The Yorks are Italian so if you see them using words that don't look like English it's Italian, or what google assures me is Italian.
Caro/Cara: Dear
Buongiorno: Good morning
Piccolo: Little one
Tesoro: Treasure
Nonno: Grandfather
Nonna: Grandmother
Si: Yes
Grazie: Thank you
Per Favore: Please
Buon Compleanno: Happy Birthday
Of course if Kelly needed a wardrobe refresh there was only one sim who would do, older sister Devin! As well as being obsessed with her image she’s also getting pretty wealthy. Free shopping spree anyone? Back in Tartosa Kelly and Devin get a commemorative selfie.
Kelly: Grazie for the shop Devin and... grazie for finding the breastforms as well
Devin: Nessun problema, my director Norah knows where all the trans friendly stuff is. I’m just glad one of my sisters may like shopping. I know we may have gone overboard on the make up…. But the grey highlights your eyes
Kelly: It’s nice. When I go to school or wherever I want sims to know I’m a girl you know?
Devin: I can only imagine cara
Kelly: Well as an actress your imagination must be pretty good
Devin: *mock shock* A compliment? For little old me?
Kelly: Shut up. It’s never happening again
Devin: Forget the Starlight Accolade, I have now reached the pinnacle of my career. Come, let’s go find pa and he can tell you his next plan
Aaron: I didn’t see it coming. She never was interested in dresses or skirts or whatever. But I suppose Deanna wasn’t either. How you reacted to Onyx made me think a lot about how I’d react so I suppose I have you to thank for not having a bad reaction
Bob who is much younger than Aaron can’t quite believe that he’s had a positive effect on someone so he just smiles and nods.
Kelly: I’m here
Devin: She means… *sing song voice* we’re here!
Kelly: Do you have to announce yourself everywhere
Devin: It’s called main character energy sis. Besides, everytime I enter a room my theme music plays
Kelly: In your head and your head only
Devin: Oh my gosh can you not be a toad face for five seconds
Aaron: *sighs* As you can see Bob the change has not resulted in less bickering
Devin: Pa, we’re Italians. If we don’t be passionate about something daily, somewhere out there our Italian cred pass gets revoked
Kelly: So why is Fergus’ dad here?
Aaron: Because he’s not just Fergus’ dad. He’s Onyx’s dad to
Devin: And I’m here because I’m brilliant at everything, but also baby names
Kelly: You called your kid Rilian Villareal. Had you written that down in full and seen how weird it looks before you chose it
(the watcher chose "Rilian" independently. She did not think about the pairing with "Villareal" and how the whole thing just looks like a bunch of l's and i's with a couple of r's for good measure)
Devin: *scoffs* Let’s just get the brainstorm underway
Kelly: Brainstorm?
Aaron: I thought Fergus and Onyx could come over after school and help us think of names to shortlist. Unless you’ve already picked one?
Kelly: No I hadn’t… grazie pa. But I still get to choose right?
Aaron: 100%. Just not a swear word
Onyx: I don’t know, I was just thinking of names that were genderless and Onyx came to me like the watcher put it in my head or something
Devin: We should pick something Italian!
Bob: There are lots of food choices. Someone’s kid is called Apple
Fergus: Pick a voidcritter name, they’re cool
With lots of phone googling, laughing, and discussion the group arrive at a small list of names Kelly is happy to choose from. She goes into her room to ponder and settles on her favourite, Artemisia!
Deanna didn’t go to classes today; she was sick all day and chose to finish her coursework between naps.
Artemisia: This seat taken
Deanna: Aren’t you worried I’ll infect you with my germs
Artemisia: Suits me. Let me be the carrier of contagion and those kids I only slightly hurt can suffer without it getting blamed on me
Deanna: Kelly I’m trying to work here
Artemisia: It’s Artemisia
Deanna: Ahto -who – what?
Deanna: Sorry goblin, you’ll have to write that down for me to follow- no, not on my textbook!
Kelly: Too late
Deanna: So do you want to be called the whole mouthful? Artemisia
Artemisia: If you're too dumb to say the whole thing then say Emi or Emisia. But why not make other people suffer trying to say my name
Deanna: Well that’s on brand for you
In the kitchen Aaron has filled Calista in on the days progress and they’re doing their best to practice the new name.
Calista: Artemisia… My daughter is Artemisia… My youngest girl is Artemisia… Have you seen Atemisia…
Aaron: Bob suggested apple
Calista: Of course he did, man loves his food. Thank you for taking the day to be with her. Ti amo
Aaron: The dyslexia is something we need to support her- Artemisia with as well
Calista: *sighs* We would have bought our dream house right before all these expenses came up. I hope we can afford all she needs
Aaron: We can tap into the retirement fund
Calista: And what about when they make you retire
Aaron: I’m a hard worker, I think I’d be allowed to stay on past 65 if I wanted to. We’ve still got 7 or 8 years of work to save up with
Artemisia: Look at that, I did my homework faster than you, Artemisia for the win!
Deanna: You also had less of it
Artemisia: Do you know what anemia is?
Deanna: Why?
Artemisia: You do science
Deanna: Physics is not the same as biology dummy
Artemisia: I got an email that my blood tests came back saying I have it, whatever it is. I better tell ma and pa
Deanna enjoys the silence as Artemisia leaves for the main house. It’s hard enough focusing normally but when sick it’s even more difficult. She’s just gotten back into the rhythm of the work when-
Artemisia: Means low iron apparently
Deanna: Ke- Artemisia! Can’t you go eat your food elsewhere? I’m trying to focus
Artemisia: Oh, am I a distraction for you? So sad. I think I might have to cry about that
Eventually Artemisia finishes and leaves, also leaving her plate for anyone else to take care of.
In the middle of the night Artemisia gets woken up by terrible news, puberty is arriving via facial hair!
Artemisia: Don’t look at me mantis, it’s awful
Mantis: *sits silently*
Artemisia: Oh I’ve just got to get rid of it
She leaps from her bed and heads to the spare bathroom where she knows Aaron leaves some razors in case of guests needs. After watching a few youtube videos she does her best to remove the offending hair. The whole time she’s telling herself, three more years. Just three more years then we can take stuff to make this stop. Three more, I can survive that.
While this is happening Deanna is also having an awful night. With her term paper submitted she naps until she can take more painkillers. Unfortunately they seem to be making her woozy so she decides to skip a dose at her 2am dinner time. She manages to get back to sleep but in the morning she’s still feeling lightheaded. Another nap after breakfast clears up her illness and she’s awake for her exams. She averages a B+ this term, pretty good considering all the stress she’s been through.
Before work Calista and Aaron fit in some nectar creation, two more normal bottles of grape nectar tucked away to age. Artemisia may have flunked her exams today but she’s still riding high from the confidence of changing her name to suit her, so she’s unbothered. When everyone is home the family is invited around so we can get some photos of Artemisia looking like herself with her family. Joey is of course trying to show off despite being skinny… Zio Joey’s got this!
Alfred and Rilian eat in their high chairs. Surprising nobody, picky eater Rilian decides he doesn’t want to finish his meal actually. Instead he babbles with his twin. The others happily chat until it gets past the twins bedtime. Nonno Aaron is only to happy to usher the toddlers home before they start throwing tantrums.
Tamika: You haven’t seen me all rotation
Deanna: I’m sorry Mika, I got overwhelmed with everything
Tamika: Are you better now
Deanna: I think so. I mean I miss having Paris around but... I'm past the sad longing phase
Tamika: Good! Then we can start visiting the university nightclubs looking for guys and gals
Deanna: I don’t know if nightclubs are my thing
Tamika: That’s okay. We’ll check out the campus’ social pages, there’s bound to be some singles events, we’ll be each other’s wing woman
Deanna: Deal. Just… maybe keep the cute blondes to yourself for a while
And we finish this York chapter! Deanna may be single but she’s not falling apart, with my sim days to years maths it has been a year since she broke up with Paris. Artemisia is dreaming about making everyone at school embarrassed trying to say her name. Aaron and Calista haven’t gotten any promotions but are chipping away at the charisma skill. They do have years left to reach the top yet.
