Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Close, but no cigar. It's a song from an early episode of Fraggle Rock, my favorite children's show that's not My Little Pony. The two are actually rather similar...
Chapter 15: Angels and Bees
Spoiler
Since Aster's a teenager, it's time to start teaching her a little more about how to be an adult, such as how to drive the car. That's what my latest parenting book says.
"AsterAsterAster! Slower, dearheart! Speed limits exist!" "Fine, fine..."
"...Honey, you know there's also a minimum speed limit, right?" "Geeze! The man is keeping my automotive fun down, man! It's some sort of speed conspiracy over there..."
"Aster...." "I just want some consistency and maybe laser vision. That's not a lot, right?"
In a place less likely to involve this dynasty ending in a firey automotive accident, Reed's decided to help out with cooking, in case we need more after his mother's passing.
And Norman's ghost comes out just long enough for Billy to start on a portrait of him; and in doing that, he maxes his painting skill.
Something here is not quite right. Can you spot it?
When our driving lesson's done, I get out to watch her for a moment. A while later, she gets out... And starts running... In the opposite direction.
And as a teen after curfew, she gets caught by the police before
She comes home after I do, escorted by the police. "Billy, your daughter's being brought home in handcuffs." "I notice she's only 'my' daughter when she's in trouble." "Well, it's not the fault of my raising of her, or Ariel."
...I sometimes who the old married couple here is.
"Aster! I raised you better than to go wandering like this -- the family has higher standards than to need a policeman!" I hope I'm not being too hard... But my latest parenting book said that teaching teens firm boundaries is appropriate. As is... "You're grounded."
"But Momma... I... There were the lights and when I went to see them, I got turned around, and... I thought if I kept moving the other way, against the earth's rotation, I could turn time and not be lost...Please, don't be mad. It's not like the real person you are, to be mad."
I look into the eyes of my beautiful, odd little daughter... And realize that she is old enough to understand -- understand while I hold her so high, why I ask so much from her, and more...
About who we are.
Work is in a few hours, and the garden's come in fiercely... But it's all irrelevant. The plants can wait.
"Aster, upstairs, on the balcony." "Mom, I think you're a little old to be doing a romeo and juliet bit. And too smart besides -- they were kind of dumb. We could maybe do a bit of Hamlet -- or hey, maybe skip Shakespeare -- how's some Fair Maid of the West sound? I think you'd make a good pirate..."
"No, I meant we need to talk on the balcony for a moment." "...That works, too.. I guess..."
We sit down; she looks uneasy, and then distracted by the light on the table, and then she remembers she is uneasy, but can't recall why. Her feelings are so simple and clean, shining out from her face like a beacon.
"Aster, have you ever wondered about..." I consider this line of questioning, but I brush it aside. Because it's impossible to say exactly what I mean to say, but some ways are better than others for who we are. "Mooomm... Is this 'the talk'? Because really, I'm good."
"No, it's a different talk. Aster, I want you to picture a city. it is a city made of carved light and molten silver; it's a city made of cast cloud and strained moonlight. And in that city are people: some of them are sims who have passed on, and the city felt some need to claim -- because the city -- are you picturing it? -- does not exist in time or space. It dangles in their aether, its buildings connected to one another, dangling with roads like ribbons. And some of its inhabitants...
Are angels. Beings of grace and beauty, celestial paragons of goodness; they are formed in this city, ageless; they are its keepers and its judges, its rulers and its residents."
Aster nods, thoughtfully. Her eyes are closed. She's still, I think, imagining the city -- a city of light that cannot be seen would appeal, I think. I reach across the table and put a hand on her hand.
"I was born in that city. And so was Uriel. We lived there for a long time."
At this, her eyes open and she looks at me. My heart races -- her reactions could destroy everything.
"An angel? Well...What happened? I want to know why I don't sleep on a pile of silver on a frame of mist. Because that sounds...really nice."
"...It's a long story. Uriel and I were cast out, is the abbreviated version. There's no way back...except this: I must become human, which I have, and fulfill many requirements... And for 7 of my descendants to do the same, and for all of us, having achieved those goals and honors, to become immortal in this world until we can stand together... And enter the Silver City again as Angels."
My daughter leans back and seems to mull it over. Her confusion of the night seems to have vanished, the way it does when she paints or sculpts. When she's with her friends, it's a different sort of confusion, blustery and happy and random -- like she enjoys it, being like light broken in crystal. I try and keep my face calm, but my leg twitches.
She leans forward.
"Well, what's stopping you?"
"Your father made me promise you that I'd ask -- I'd ask all of my descendants if they want this. To outlive all mortals they love, and in exchange, have a chance of glory greater than words, and eternal life. Will you, Aster?"
"...If I said no... Will you regret that I exist? Having come here? Will you regret that I was born?"
"No. You're my daughter -- and I couldn't ask it of you, if I wouldn't love you if you said no. It's your choice... I am a little sorry to hear it, though."
"Hear what? I never said my answer. Let's do it, Mom. Let's see that perfect city."
She says, a big smile on her face. She is so radiant there, in the morning light -- that perhaps I see why humans are so infatuated with the idea of angels. I certainly think she's divine.
For a little while longer, my dream can keep spinning. Thanks to this wild-eyed child.
"By the way, am I still grounded?"
"No, dear..."
"Silly girl. Still, good work!...That little girl is growing up so fast..."
"You could have helped, you know."
"Words and people -- those are your things, sweetheart. I'm just here to look gooood."
"That doesn't work if no one can see you."
"Bah! They can imagine!"
And now the two threads are officially caught up! So, without further ado, here are the girls' checklists.
Ariel Seraphim
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: The Perfect Garden Career: Business Supermax Skill: Gardening (Maxxed, 2/3 Challenges) Building, Property: Divisario Budget Books, Lost Willow Park LTR: Super Green Thumb, No Bills Ever, Collection Helper Best Friends: Billy (Caspian) Seraphim, Elaine Joy, Aster Seraphim, Laurel Grisby, Fatima Simovitch, Tom Shallow Black Ops: Amateur Olympics, Making Coffee the Executive Way, Seeking More Favorable Taxes, Making Nice with the Newsies Portraits: YA, Adult Sculptures/Photos: Adult (Sculp)
Aster Seraphim
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: Living in the Lap of Luxury Career: Architect Supermax Skill: Painting Building, Property: Hogan's Deep-Fried Diner, Romper Recreational Park LTR: Observant, Attractive Best Friends: Ariel Seraphim, Reed Joy, Evanthe Seraphim Black Ops: When Dream Come True, Scavenger Hunt: Rare Elements, a fishy science project Portraits: Toddler, Child, Teenager Sculptures/Photos: Child (sculp), Teen (sculp)
As you can see, Ariel's almost done, while Aster has a long way to go. I've been saving painting so she can gain faster experience as an architect that way. Oh, and this one comes with a pair of glossaries, since it involves terms used by that forum.
Glossary
Spoiler
Supermax Skill: Noun. Verb form "to Supermax." Reaching level 10 in a relevant skill and completing all related challenges. For immortal candidates, no other immortal or candidate may max that skill. Other sims in the household can, though. Black Ops: I have no idea why, but these refer to the 6 opportunities each immortal candidate must complete. These must be unique to that sim, undone by any other immortal candidate, to qualify. Adventure ops do not count, no do repeats of an op with the same name, but different qualifications.
...Boy there sure are a lot of spoilers for this chapter.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
I don't think I'd realised quite how demanding this challenge is - the whole unable to repeat any skills or challenges thing seems really restrictive.
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Kasumi Goto avatar by Thormag.
Apparently, I'm a Neutral Good Human Wizard (4th Level): Strength 13; Dexterity 14; Constitution 12; Intelligence 17 Wisdom 16; Charisma 13. I'm down with that.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
It's pretty demanding; this is my first attempt, but there are people on attempt #5 or #6 that don't succeed. A lot can go wrong.
You also can't repeat lifetime wishes, best friends (that qualify), LTRs (that qualify), or careers. You can, however, repeat "extra" best friends or LTRs: For example, Ariel has so many best friends (she has a lot more than are on the list currently) that she may not need Billy or Aster, thus meaning that Aster can be BFs with her daddy and Aster's child can be BFs with her without any threat: those relationships won't count toward the requirements, but that's a different matter.
You are allowed to repeat some skills -- just not supermax skills. For example, I intend Gen 4 to be a chef and supermax cooking. This means that neither Ariel nor Aster nor the currently nonexistant Gen 3 can learn cooking, for fear of maxxing it. Ariel will never have a descendant help her in the garden. But no generation is doing sculpting, so Aster and Ariel and whomever I want to sculpt can sculpt.
Coming in with a plan is important: I have made several, and Pets may mess with them a bit (I intend to test horseback riding's viability as a supermax when you can only have 2 horses at a time), so there's wiggle room. I really hope to have Athletics as a spare skill, so I'm trying to get Martial Arts out of the way before some sort of travel bug pops up, but use Athletics for a back up.
Why do I hope to have Athletics as a spare? Because there are a lot of activities that can raise Athletics, like playing catch or hopscotch or going swimming. More fun activities = better. Likewise, I hope to have charisma as a spare so that my writer can become a journalist, and because it's so darn useful.
Of course, this only applies to immortals. Mortals can do whatever they want: what's troublesome about them is trying to keep space available. Which, come to that, will eventually lead me to an important poll, I think.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Chapter 16: Rated 'S' for excessive sappiness.
Spoiler
Aster didn't come home from school on-time that day. Not for any bad reason -- she had been invited to the house of the Coulter girl, whose family Elaine had met quite a long time ago. And, desiring to make some friends and endear herself to the neighbors, she assented.
Of course, from what Uriel relayed to me, things there do not go entirely well. You see, Aster's eccentricities, to us, are darling (or vaguely worrying, but we don't inform her of this). To someone else... "If we could expand the molecules to house-sized proportions, and then we could live inside, like, your nose... And ride the electrons to school. Which, of course, would take place in the molecules of my nose... Except that creates a loop of infinitely tiny nose-molecules. Well, anyway, does your nose have bedroom space?"
Coulter Girl (thinking)...Why is there no 'cell phone > call for services > men in white coats,' exactly? "Heck no!"
Aster heads home disappointed and angry: outside her peers in the house, she did not necessarily get along well with those at school. And this was just another reminder.
When she comes home, she immediately asks Reed and Evanthe to go to PlumPuddle park with her.
"Aster..." "I'll keep an eye on her."
"Thank you."
After all, I had my own company to tend to: before I knew about Aster's troubles, I had invited the Lobos girls and Constance Shelley over... They should be coming any...
"Oh, Miss Shelley! You gave me quite the fright! When did you get here?" "When you weren't looking, obviously."
"How...?" "Book-Ninja."
"That doesn't answer..." "A book ninja does not reveal her secrets."
Well, I suppose she's just lucky to live in Riverview: if she lived in Barnacle Bay, she'd probably have to do battle with book pirates.
...At the park... “Why are we sitting back-to-back?” Reed asks. “Maybe because I don’t want to be a seen thing. Or maybe I do. I…I don’t remember which is which, right now."
"Aster, come over here..." "You're a really great person, Aster. Those guys at school don't know what they're missing. You're cheerful and funny and... Just really interesting." "Thanks, Reed. You're... really nice. Like if our hands touched, the resulting warmth I felt could power a lightbulb...That's the sort of warm person you are." "I don't think anyone's said anything that unique about me before!"
The two of them settle in to look at the stars... "Uh, guys?" Evanthe, who's been fishing off by herself for most of the night, pipes in. "Yeah, 'Vanthe?" "It's nearly curfew. We better go home."
"Hey, that was my job!" "Too bad, Mr. Uriel! Too bad!" Evanthe laughs.
When the kids get home, Reed and Aster head to a corner of the lot to continue their talk.
"I don't think they see me as real. When they look at me, they turn me to glass, and I stop being real. Or I never was. And I'm going to live forever one day, so maybe I'll just not be real forever." "Real?" "Like that book Mom read said. 'Real isn't something you're made. It's something that happens to you.' Like Evanthe. When something is loved enough, it becomes real." "...Aster... You're real to me."
Aster giggles. "See? It's really warm, holding your hand like this."
Reed sits closer, while Billy and Evanthe behind me press closer to the nursery window for a better view.
"Yeah, it is. Come on, Aster, cheer up. Tell me the stories about the stars." "Well, Ok... That one is..."
Awwww....
"Hey, Ariel, we finally went around to getting a bed for Evanthe, isn't that --"
"Not now, Uriel! Reed's making his move." "What? And you didn't call me? Let me see --"
"Aww, we missed it!"
"Shh." "I mean, I really do like you. A real lot." "I'd hope so...Ummm...Say, Reed...Want to maybe go to prom together?" "Yes! Yesyesyesyesyes!"
He almost jumps for joy. How sweetly undignified, as only the young can be...
Oh, but the nicest young man I know and my daughter have found each other... Yesyesyesyesyes~!
We let them be for the night.
***
And in the morning, Aster makes a toybox. ”A functional toybox. With toys in it.,” “Well, of course. What else would a toybox have in it? It’s not a good sculpture if it’s not authentic.”
I shake my head. "...Until I figure where these came from, I am keeping it right here in the living room."
It's not just the kids, though: this weekend, love is in the air for most of the house.
Except maybe Elaine, whose day of work was maybe... less than stellar?
I'm in such a good mood that I decide to do some more work on my space, the lawn. Specifically, that lovely space covered by the balcony.
"Hey, Aster, don't go forgetting about me even if you're snuggling up to Reed, alright?" "Why would I do that, you big silly? You're my first and best friend in this whole world. Our lives are intertwined." "Good. Because I'm pretty sure I wouldn't want to live in a world where Aster's not my friend."
As sweet as she is to Aster, though, Evanthe's not without some mischief.
But luckily Uriel decided to replace that bench: we'd need it for later today. Because today was Sunday, and Sunday was the prom.
The girls spent the rest of the day fussing and primping, even coming up with new outfits for themselves, just for the big day.
I do get them to pose politely for one little picture. It's a mother's prerogative, to see her daughter and her daughter's best friend looking nice on Prom Night. Only one thing's missing... But when the limo drives up, he comes on out...
"Reed?" "Got it in one, Aunt Ariel... I wanted to be a little bit...well, hotter."
"How?" "He asked for my assistance, of course! We worked something out. Magically."
"And by 'magically,' you mean...?"
"We set up a body sculptor."
"Ah... Well, it does suit him. I suppose whatever makes him happy."
Speaking of which, after all the trouble we went through getting her in a prom dress, she still went to prom in her athletics clothes! How did she change outfits in the limo like that?
...Well, I suppose Reed probably had no complaints, however she did it.
And they certainly have a busy prom. Reed and Aster danced the night away, making quite the stir at the party, and really bonding with each other, enough so that Reed eventually asked her to go steady. And after all of that, who could dare refuse? According to Uriel, it was a non-stop back and forth of chicken dancing and secret looks, all night long. He stopped and told me about each one, and to be frank, I was a little tired of being told it by the end of the night. "Man, they're busy kids..."
Evanthe didn't have as much luck, getting turned down by a popular boy... But, when she thought the nice looked the worst, she was given a drink by a young man who's been to a number of our parties: Ross Dorman, a little older than Evanthe. He's a pretty cute young guy, and he and Evanthe hit it off a little. Maybe she will find love, after all.
In the end, Aster even was voted Prom Queen, with Reed voted Prom King! It seems that people liked her more than she thought. Though Aster really wanted to be Prom Grand High Councilwoman and Overlady, but no one listened... Probably for the best.
Ariel Seraphim
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: The Perfect Garden Career: Business Supermax Skill: Gardening (Maxxed, 2/3 Challenges) Building, Property: Divisario Budget Books, Lost Willow Park LTR: Super Green Thumb, No Bills Ever, Collection Helper Best Friends: Billy (Caspian) Seraphim, Elaine Joy, Aster Seraphim, Laurel Grisby, Fatima Simovitch, Tom Shallow, Larry Cooper, Anita and Carlotta Lobos, Constance Shelly Black Ops: Amateur Olympics, Making Coffee the Executive Way, Seeking More Favorable Taxes, Making Nice with the Newsies, Political Influence Portraits: YA, Adult Sculptures/Photos: Adult (Sculp)
Aster Seraphim
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: Living in the Lap of Luxury Career: Architect Supermax Skill: Painting Building, Property: Hogan's Deep-Fried Diner, Romper Recreational Park LTR: Observant, Attractive, Extra Creative Best Friends: Ariel Seraphim, Reed Joy, Evanthe Seraphim Black Ops: When Dream Come True, Scavenger Hunt: Rare Elements, A fishy science project, Outside Reading Portraits: Toddler, Child, Teenager Sculptures/Photos: Child (sculp), Teen (sculp)
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
I was wondering whether that was puppy love developing between the two originally-real kids. This chapter was absolutely filled with warm fuzzies. ....And formal legwarmers. To Aster: Rock on, you insane diamond.
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Avatar gladly adopted from Ink!
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Well, she hasn't exactly gotten much use out of her exercise-wear, so I guess it's Ok...
Also, since some people wonder why I'm updating this while I should be updating Moemon, since I've been working on the chapter since monday...
Sometimes you can get one project to work with you when others don't. And you will tear your hair out about it, but there you go. I'm still working on Moemon, just really frustrated. Nothing's feeling right.
Chapter 17: All You Need is Love. Jumbo-Sized Love.
Spoiler
Billy finished Norman's portrait, late as it was, and we placed it over his grave. I worry about it, a little.
And later in the evening, after many of the events of this story have passed, he even comes out, seemingly just to see it -- he doesn't do anything else but look at it and return to his rest. I do hope it means he's pleased.
But, earlier, Evanthe decides to invite over the young man who charmed her at the dance: Ross. I've already mentioned he's no stranger to this house -- he was a classmate of Aster's for a while, then aged up, and now she's caught up with him again. Still, this is the first time he's been here without a crowd. He's not an unattractive young fellow.
And it appears that their earlier encounter wasn't just a dance-time fluke; they hit it off and flirt and sit at the fire pit for most of the day (well, once I come by and cough for them to do their homework.
Not that they're the only romantic couple in the house... "Awww, aren't they sweet?" "Hmm...That gives me an idea... Hey, Uriel?" "What is it now, Billy?" "I need your help for something. It's for Ariel." "...Hmm...On the one hand, I don't like helping you..." "What sort of guardian angel are you?" "But on the other hand... I do like seeing Ariel happy. Alright, I'm in."
Oooh, is someone (by which I mean me) getting a surprise from two of my favorite entities? ...Well, I can maybe listen in and still act surprised, right?
Of course, whatever Billy's plan is, it involves going to the store. I'll have to find out later.
"Listen Ross, I'm really, really tired. I am going to fall over if I don't let you go so I can go to bed in a minute." "Well, 'Vanthe, I could just go home..." "No, No. I wanted... Well, I wanted to ask you... If we could go steady?" Of course. I'd really like that; you're like no other sim I've met." "That's sorta because she's not really a --" ("Stow it, Mr. Uriel.") "Fine, Fine... It's not like people outside this family can hear me anyway." "...I mean, Great! Well, best be heading to bed. See you later, honey."
"And, with a young man in orbit, we can count this as a success!"
I don't know if this has anything to do with my surprise-that-I-know-about, but Billy's been playing his guitar in the park recently. He gets decent tips, too.
And I have taken to inviting any new coworkers I find over in order to become better friends. "It's important for one to be as friends with as many people as possible, particularly if you spend a lot of time working with them." "And you get more promotions by sucking up, too."
...I wish sometimes he'd put things in less mercenary terms sometimes.
I am, though, very good at befriending my coworkers: in the course of the single day, I can get one up to best friend.
While a pillow's not quite a flaming sword, it is a weapon of the divine. I approach my quarry with the calm of righteous ones, Tee-Hee.
"Grrrr! Sky, you keep making me get left behind! I will smash you, puny heavens!"
"Awww... She's really so cute that I'm not angry at all about her being out after curfew this once." "Sweets, your definition of cute worries me sometimes. Then again, I'm sure it's part of why you think I'm cute..."
"Could be."
In more somber news, some of the fish Norman left behind are passing on; Evanthe looks so sad, flushing them.
But the night closes on happy news: Aster uses the new addition to the house, the computer, to purchase her property and business. "Romper Recreational, Huh? I'll get to work remodeling it right a --" "No you won't! It's mine, so I want to do it!" "You? Whatever you say, Princess. What do you --" "Not now, silly.... When I'm an architect, like Dad." "What?" "Well, Ok, like dad pretends to be. But he's reached level 6 just by painting, and... Well, all those people going around with those poorly-designed houses... Not one of them travels by slide! Not a one!" "Isn't that because no one.." "Oh, they say it's because slides aren't a stair-type item in build mode, but that's just from lack of effort! I'll change the way housing is done, you'll see!" "...Whatever works for you, then." "Thanks, Uriel!" "Anything for our little princess."
And the good news keeps coming: I finally get the opportunity that will allow me to plant cheese and egg plants. This means I only need three more plants, instead of a full five!
...We sure are lucky I've been hoarding fruit in my pocket like some sort of deranged squirrel, and thus didn't have to wait, aren't we? "Hey, sweetheart! Let's go celebrate. Come with me, I've got it all figured out."
"Ooh, is that surprise you were working out for me?"
I cover my hands with my mouth. "Oh, dear. I wasn't supposed to let on that I knew, was I? I'm so sorry!" "...It's ok. You're not a good enough liar to keep it hidden."
He takes me to a park and we have lunch there, talking and laughing about this and that. We spend so much time in that crowded house that time with just the two of us feels special and rare. "And a little nectar to finish the meal. I picked this up specially, so I hope you like it."
"Ooh, it's all bubbly! Is this the --?" "Are you going analyze everything I do all day for the surprise?"
"...Well, may... Ok, Ok, I'll stop." "Good, because we aint done yet."
He takes my by the hand and leads me for a while, to a beautiful field. Butterflies flit around us,
and flowers bloom like mad in bright pinks and whites -- it's like a symphony on the eyes.
I stand there with my breath taken away. "Ok, yeah, this is sort of the surprise. I found it on an old town map..."
He explains. He looks uneasy. "Goodness sakes, woman! D-don't just stand there!....Ok, that came out wrong. But...What do you think?"
"Oh...I love it. It's absolutely beautiful." "One more thing..."
He takes out a guitar and begins to play.
And the music weaves itself into the evening, as he plays a sweet song only I will hear. Time seems to move so quickly that it's positively unfair.
Eventually, feeling worn out, we head home, for a round of small gifts: another bouquet of white roses, and a firework he sets out on the front lawn. We stare at it for just a minute, before going inside...
To make our own fireworks, so to speak.
"I love you." I whisper to him, tears dotting the corner of my eyes as I at last admit defeat: for whatever pain it'll do me later, I can't keep pretending something other than my feelings.
"I love you so much."
*** "...For some reason, I was expecting a bigger net gain for Team Uriel out of that. What was I thinking?"
"Oh, Uriel. I wanted to say thank you so much, for helping Billy with today. It means a lot to me that you're willing to put your grudge aside, if only for my sake." "...Think nothing of it. Your thanks is reward enough."
***
Oh, and I wanted, for the sake of a complete sense of our house, to say a little something about Elaine. While there's no great love of her life, she seems happy: she spends a lot of time just playing around, sometimes joined by the ghost of her father. She tells me she's happy, especially since her life has the pleasure of being a quiet one.
For the next day, Billy spends it in an inspired passion, playing guitar for hours on end. In fact, just as midnight begins to turn, he masters the art:
He has completed his lifetime wish.
Ariel Seraphim
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: The Perfect Garden Career: Business Supermax Skill: Gardening (Maxxed, 2/3 Challenges) Building, Property: Divisario Budget Books, Lost Willow Park LTR: Super Green Thumb, No Bills Ever, Collection Helper Best Friends: Billy (Caspian) Seraphim, Elaine Joy, Aster Seraphim, Laurel Grisby, Fatima Simovitch, Tom Shallow, Larry Cooper, Anita and Carlotta Lobos, Constance Shelly, Chandra Jacobsin Black Ops: Amateur Olympics, Making Coffee the Executive Way, Seeking More Favorable Taxes, Making Nice with the Newsies, Political Influence, Uncommonly Good Portraits: YA, Adult Sculptures/Photos: Adult (Sculp)
Aster Seraphim
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: Living in the Lap of Luxury Career: Architect Supermax Skill: Painting Building, Property: Hogan's Deep-Fried Diner, Romper Recreational Park LTR: Observant, Attractive, Extra Creative Best Friends: Ariel Seraphim, Reed Joy, Evanthe Seraphim Black Ops: When Dream Come True, Scavenger Hunt: Rare Elements, A fishy science project, Outside Reading Portraits: Toddler, Child, Teenager Sculptures/Photos: Child (sculp), Teen (sculp)
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Ok, so I take it the attempt to actually make an entertaining chapter with what is generally the 'and then everyone waited for the next age-up' parts...Didn't work?
Also, playing pets, and finding that riding seems like a challenging, but I don't think impossible, supermax. I've barely gotten into it, though...
Anyway, chapter 18 will get started when I get done the next moemon chapter.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Actually, I found that this was one of your best chapters yet. I suppose lurking incessantly does not show it the same way as words do, so here goes:
I adore this Let's Play, and I think more people should.
I'm a bit worried about the later generations, seeing as the requirements will pretty much stay the same, but I guess the drama inherent in having immortals dealing with a mortal world will begin to make up for it by then.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Thank you very much for saying so! I'm really very flattered by anything nice... I've yet to hear much mean, so it's hard to say if I'd be flattered, but I'd give it a shot.
The requirements will stay the same, that's true... But not the steps needed for fulfilling those requirements. Ariel and Aster have relatively passive skills, and Ariel a passive job, so I can see where it'd be worrying.
I've been trying riding out in a different file, and I will tell you now... It is a dang intense skill. My poor test sim is always doing something involving horses. She stalks wild ones at night. She combs neighborhoods looking for tame ones to befriend. She trains, trains, trains poor Trailblazer. She sends him to stud. She could, if she wanted to, sell him and trade him in for a broodmare and have lots of foals to sell. She buys or tames horses, trains them a bit, befriends them, and sells them. She competes in contests. She searches for and watches wild unicorns. She's a girl with a lot on her plate, though she'll soon be relaxing once she completes the last available non-contest challenge and maxes her career.... By the way, if I'm ever down to one LP or have some spare energy, I may very well go back to an HM-Sims fusion. Jack would be a busy, busy boy with Pets installed.
Or what about Logic? It's one of the busier skills, with something like 5 challenges: it's a very supermaxable skill, but at the same time, keeps a sim busy for a long time.
And then we have careers, of course...For example, my Handiness sim will, provided I can make Martial Arts work for Gen 3, probably be something fun, likely a fireman/woman, though we'll see how worn-out I am. My logic sim will be a ghostbuster. Those are pretty intensive jobs, yes indeedy. A lot of people on the other forum, when I vetted my outline, went "Are you sure you can handle a ghostbuster? And likely 7 other sims? Because that's a lot of..."
And then there's spouse-hunting, baby-raising, friend-making, and so on.
That said, there will probably be segments like this, where what I am really doing is finding ways to pass time until a characters is ready for the next phase of their developement, either in age or challenges or whatever. That's why getting an opinion on this particular chapter matters, since I'm trying to build up a repotoire of ways to deal with it.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Aww, young love for the imaginary friend. And I adored the little romantic conspiracy between Billy and Uriel. Though it makes the thought of Billy growing old and dying without Ariel even more ominous.
This image makes me giggle each time I look at it.
Spoiler
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Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
That is a great shot of her. I almost garuntee that Aster's post-immortality job will largely just be being crazy: making silly faces, eating flies, fighting with her hand... That sort of thing. It's a vital job in a dynasty.
Chapter 18: Birthday-Palooza
Spoiler
I was in such a good mood that I decided to do a lot of yardwork -- much of this is still preliminary, since I know our family will be using a lot of this space over time, to fit our expanding needs. But we have some ponds -- I'll probably remove a few -- and many, many more flowers. I think a few more flowers still would be a good idea, but Uriel's starting to fuss about there not being room if we keep adding more flowers.
And Elaine celebrated her birthday alone. I know it sounds like we're neglecting her, but she insisted -- she doesn't like being the oldest person in the house. But we did at least talk her into having a cake.
Compared to other birthdays we've seen, hers is relatively mild. Maybe it's because no one was watching? I wonder if there's a book about unfortunate aging.
Anyway, I think she aged really very well. I can only hope I age as well. I'm a little nervous.
Aster spent her evening visiting Ross Dorman. "So what is your intention towards my best friend? If you plan on selling her in an alien space trade, then you've got another thing coming...Oh, and the answer is 24." "*rolls eyes* ('If you want to be her lover, you've got to get with her friends...' Spice Girls, why do you lie?)"
Speaking of making new friends, I've been asked to talk to Mr. Sherman Bagley for work. He's really a very nice man -- I was a little surprised, given how often his mother crashes my party. Well, we talked for a while and were friends within hours.
My office keeps calling me 'the orbital friendship cannon,' and talking about 'deploying the friendship cannon at those reluctant retailers.' I don't entirely understand it, but I'm glad to be doing good work.
The kids have a bit of a talk about Reed's future. "I was thinking... Maybe I ought to do something to beautify the town when I grow up, too: I mean, unless I decide to pursue music, and all...What should I do?" "Well, music and beautifying are both adding beauty -- which should always be an objective for us as artists." "...That was an alarmingly lucid answer." "There are things we do for love. But...what were you planning on doing to beautify the town?" "One word: Makeovers." "Isn't that technically against the rules?" "Actually, it's not!" Aster pipes up. "I checked online -- makeovers to non-family members, made without intent to increase lifespans of specific sims, are totally cool! To keep the stylist job viable." "...Where did you check this?" "Well, I was thinking about the people reading the story, and what they might know about the rules, and then I realized that that was what they had said." "...Reed, do you believe this?"
Reed shrugs. "There are things you do for love. It's real enough. Maybe I will be a stylist."
Aster's been meaningly to socialize a bit more, and so decides to throw a party for all her teenage friends -- she's finally putting her prom dress to good use. (And don't worry -- Evanthe steals Ross away after that dance, and Aster circulates through all the guests.)
That evening, Elaine gets her final promotion at work, and brings home a special treat. "We shall call it...Uberfridge." "Uriel, it's got a name. It's the utmost in food storage." "...I know, Elaine. I just want to call it the uberfridge." "Oh, hey! What about the Ultrafridge? Less transcending of the slave-mentality, but more ultra." Aster pipes in. "That's my girl! Ultrafridge it is." "...What is Ariel going to do with you two?" "Be with us forever?" "Sounds about right!" "That wasn't meant to be answered."
"What's all this confetti for?" "I'm retiring. I've worked long enough, I've accomplished several dreams worthy of a person's life... I'm ready."
"Oh, well, happy retirement! I hope to join in soon."
I just wonder where the confetti came from...
Since it's hard to say how long she'll have with us... She decides to start putting together something special, to store for later. Thank you, Elaine. You're such a good friend.
I'm sorry living with my daughter is so difficult sometimes. We have chairs, sweetheart.
A major argument against Reed contemplating being a stylist: tonight he maxxes painting, thus cutting off possible options
It's really about party season -- we have three birthdays coming up at once. So I decide to add a deck for parties, with a hottub and pool. It's still a work in progress.
Though speaking of works in progresses.... I manage to at last achieve my final promotion. I am Ariel Seraphim, Power Broker! This is one of my last requirements, and the relief of having it completed is a breath of fresh air.
"Why, look, Uriel! The gnomes are so happy for me they're having a party!" "...Or planning a conspiracy."
"They sure do love tabletops. They're like little drunken dancers." "...Or menaces to society."
Anyway, while Uriel mutters about gnomes, I take the chance to refresh a few relationships, just to be sure I'm ready.
And Billy and I enjoy the hottub for a while before the party starts.
Because once it starts, it's pure chaos. Everyone's clustered around, everyone's waiting for cake -- and once we get started, everyone's trying to decide how to be in-line for cake, or celebrating, or sitting and eating... It's just pure chaos.
But Billy still somehow gets up to his cake. He's still, I think, a wonderfully handsome man.
Especially once we get some color in his hair and some better clothes. "And you found my hat!"
"I saved it. I knew you'd be wanting it." "Awwww...." He gives me a little kiss on the cheek.
And my little girl goes up. A little less little now, I suppose. I'm glad she wasn't the only one attending a formal party in her swimwear.
But she's such a lovely girl. I mean, really -- when I saw her, little tears dotted my eyes.
It'd be a shame not to put her in so many different outfits -- she'll wear whatever she feels like, after all. According to her, her hairstyling's still a work in progress for some of these.
She also decided on her liftetime wish -- to live in the lap of luxury.
"But honey, you already do." "Oh, yeah!... Well, that's wonderful!"
Anyway, she's a sort of girl who I think could sell anything: a real Natural Saleswoman.
And last but not least is Evanthe, after some people start get tired of cake and parying.
That outfit, though, is absolutely terrible! Nature is so cruel.
She cuts her hair dramatically, and you think that would make her look less feminine; however, she's really a cute and modern girl -- and she hasn't totally forgotten her roots, either.
She says, though, that she needs to distance herself from being that highschool Loser, and be a better Angler instead. But first, as she's grown, she's decided to keep trying all sorts of new adventure. "And that's why I'm heading to China!" "Great! Ariel, let's go pick up some fruit there, while we're at it."
"Very well. It'll be a fun little trip."
"TO CHINA!"
Aster's final traitset is as follows:
Insane, Artistic, Perfectionist, Savvy Sculptor, and Natural Salesperson.
Evanthe's final traitset, with the aid of a Midlife Crisis, is as follows:
Loves the Outdoors, Angler, Perfectionist, Savvy Sculptor, and Adventurous.
Ariel Seraphim
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: The Perfect Garden Career: Business Supermax Skill: Gardening (Maxxed, 2/3 Challenges) Building, Property: Divisario Budget Books, Lost Willow Park LTR: Super Green Thumb, No Bills Ever, Collection Helper Best Friends: Billy (Caspian) Seraphim, Elaine Joy, Aster Seraphim, Laurel Grisby, Fatima Simovitch, Tom Shallow, Larry Cooper, Anita and Carlotta Lobos, Constance Shelly, Chandra Jacobsin Black Ops: Amateur Olympics, Making Coffee the Executive Way, Seeking More Favorable Taxes, Making Nice with the Newsies, Political Influence, Uncommonly Good, Outflanking the Military Portraits: YA, Adult Sculptures/Photos: Adult (Sculp)
Aster Seraphim
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: Living in the Lap of Luxury Career: Architect Supermax Skill: Painting Building, Property: Hogan's Deep-Fried Diner, Romper Recreational Park LTR: Observant, Attractive, Extra Creative Best Friends: Ariel Seraphim, Reed Joy, Evanthe Seraphim Black Ops: When Dream Come True, Scavenger Hunt: Rare Elements, A fishy science project, Outside Reading Portraits: Toddler, Child, Teenager Sculptures/Photos: Child (sculp), Teen (sculp)
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Quote:
Originally Posted by Ariel
I just wonder where the confetti came from...
That's a good question. Maybe we should ask Aster, where does the confetti come from? Whether the answer makes sense or not, everybody knows it'll be entertaining to hear.
...Also why was she wearing a steampunk gear/meter assembly on her back when she was talking to Reed? I totally want one now.
I love how Aster's taking the big sister role for her friend, making sure Ross has the right goals at heart, making sure he's a nice guy, making sure he can dance - I'm sure the last one is very important.
I got the My Little Pony fandom reference in this one. It made me laugh.
The gnomes love tabletops. Gnomes and tabletops. Those terms together make me imagine them as Dungeons & Dragons gnomes, in which case the house is home to three Monks and one Barbarian.
....Uriel is right to be worried. As the formless, omniscient, world-shaping entity of the house, he's the DM.
....I make very interesting posts while I'm suffering from a cold, it seems.
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Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
That's a good question. Maybe we should ask Aster, where does the confetti come from? Whether the answer makes sense or not, everybody knows it'll be entertaining to hear.
Dear Reader Toric,
Hi there! The confetti is dropped by confetti fairies, duh! The confetti faries are too tiny to bve seen, carrying around confetti large enough to be seen -- they just scrunch it down really, really small when they're carrying it. My observations have yet to capture them, but I think they use the confetti as a mating ritual, surfing on it on the way down, trying to attract their natural mate, which are the floorboards. Every time the confetti reaches the ground, they make sweet, sweet love. And that's why the sky is blue.
Your Friend From This Side of the Fourth Wall,
Aster
...Aster, get back in my game where you belong. Quit sneaking out! I swear, that girl leaves chunks of the fourth wall everywhere she goes.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
...Also why was she wearing a steampunk gear/meter assembly on her back when she was talking to Reed? I totally want one now.
The shirt she wears for her athletic wear as a teen is from the Steampunk Savvy set from the Sims 3 store. A number of her teen clothing is from that set or other fantastic sets -- when I re-evaluate her young adult warddrobe soon, I'll probably go in and add more of that style... I kind of went crazy with some new stuff packs and a new set or two when I picked those outfits for her.
I really am just addicted to dressing Aster up. I don't have this problem with other sims.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
....I make very interesting posts while I'm suffering from a cold, it seems.
Yeah, you do. But fun to respond to.
Edit: It just occured to me that I should say so, but that was Ariel's last chapter as our regularly-scheduled narrator. Next chapter's going to be Evanthe, we have a surprise for chapter 20... And then Ariel's passing the torch. She may do individual chapters -- it depends on who's doing what, what I'm feeling... But there we go.
Edit, The Return:
This isn't an update per se, but I recently went in and edited through the girls' wardrobes. Most of the warddrobes are the same, but there are some new additions and some changes. These won't show up until after chapter 20, but I'd like to get the images out of the way now.
Evanthe's wardrobe edits
Spoiler
First on our fashion show is a second everyday look for Evanthe. I was trying to more clearly evoke the style she had as a teenager, going for something light and flirty, and a little doll-like.
Have you noticed I like putting Evanthe in stripes? Not sure how that happened. This is a more formal formalwear for her -- a formal gown, if you will. This will probably won't make a lot of appearances... But at least she's wearing those cute cat earrings from pets.
Evanthe gets new sleepwear, as opposed to an additional sleep outfit. For some reason, this involves animal slippers.
Aster's Wardrobe Changes
Spoiler
First off is a new everyday look for her, fresh from the Sims Store. I was going to add more everyday looks, but.... Apparently the max you can have is 3.
...
I don't have a problem.
Anyway, this sort of kooky, craft-y look is very nice for Aster, who I like to think puts some of her clothes together by hand.
This is her usual formal gown/wedding dress, but with a new hairstyle. Fun fact about this outfit: I was showing my friend around Sims 3, having her make a sim... And almost all of the outfits she wanted were outfits I had color-tweaked and saved for the purposes of this dynasty. This was her sim's everyday dress, and Ariel's formal was her formal.
I decided to replace Aster's trendy party-formal sort of outfit with another steampunk-based piece. And, also, a different hairstyle. She's Billy's daughter, and so appreciates a fine hat on occaison.
I also gave her a second athletics outfit. Aster probably won't be doing anything Athletic, though she may one day get to swim, but I figure if she's going to switch clothes all the time, she may as well have a lot of clothes. This one is taken from the one she wore as a teen.
And I replaced her swimsuit with this lovely grass skirt and coconut combo, purchased just so she could wear it. I wish girls had that duyck floaty device as an option, but they don't. Sigh.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Quote:
Originally Posted by Deme
Dear Reader Toric,
Hi there! The confetti is dropped by confetti fairies, duh! The confetti faries are too tiny to bve seen, carrying around confetti large enough to be seen -- they just scrunch it down really, really small when they're carrying it. My observations have yet to capture them, but I think they use the confetti as a mating ritual, surfing on it on the way down, trying to attract their natural mate, which are the floorboards. Every time the confetti reaches the ground, they make sweet, sweet love. And that's why the sky is blue.
Your Friend From This Side of the Fourth Wall,
Aster
That makes perfect sense. Obviously when the fairies ride their confetti back up to the sky, they return to their normal blue pigmentation until the next mating season. This also explains why no Sim ever has to sweep the paper slips up. Brilliant!
Quote:
Originally Posted by Deme
I really am just addicted to dressing Aster up. I don't have this problem with other sims.
As you've stated, she's the one Sim in the house you're guaranteed to see the full wardrobe on due to her Insanity. I wouldn't object to future wardrobe changes for her for this very reason.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Deme
Have you noticed I like putting Evanthe in stripes? Not sure how that happened.
I think it's cool you took the rainbow-striped arms of Imaginary-Evanthe and ran with them.
I also like Aster's patchwork skirt. It speaks of her mental status.
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Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
That makes perfect sense. Obviously when the fairies ride their confetti back up to the sky, they return to their normal blue pigmentation until the next mating season. This also explains why no Sim ever has to sweep the paper slips up. Brilliant!
Aster, while grounded from hijacking my computer from inside it for a while, would like to pass on this message:
There you go! It's really quite intuitive, once you think about it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
As you've stated, she's the one Sim in the house you're guaranteed to see the full wardrobe on due to her Insanity. I wouldn't object to future wardrobe changes for her for this very reason.
I also like Aster's patchwork skirt. It speaks of her mental status.
I can't say if the urge for more redesigns will strike me, but we'll see what happens. I know I'll make a sincere effort to designing maternity clothes for her -- I was going to do so for Ariel, but the announcement and being forced by the game into an unchangable set of clothing happened too soon. I still do need to leave clothes for generations 3-8 to wear, after all.
Her main everyday skirt also has little patches going up the side -- it's a bit more subtle, but it's there.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
I think it's cool you took the rainbow-striped arms of Imaginary-Evanthe and ran with them.
You're right. That is exactly what I did. Thank you very much for reminding me! Also, expect Evanthe to use her doll form somewhat, particularly the next chapter.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Chapter 19: China Girl
Spoiler
When I became real, I realized there was a world outside of Aster's house. I want to see that world; all of it.
And so, Ariel and I headed to China. It's funny, the two people who aren't entirely human there.
Oh, Mr. Uriel says I need to say who I am. Sorry. It's Evanthe -- yes, an unlikely hero out for adventure on her own!
We did arrive safely, at least. Ariel's here for reasons of her own, though. "C'mon, dollface. I know where all the fruits are here." "Oh? And how do you know that?" "Well, I wouldn't send you to a place I haven't researched, would I?" "Do you want me to list all the times you have, Uriel?" "Cold...Just cold..."
She laughs like a bell. "Well, I have a travel book, so we'll be OK. You go on ahead, Evanthe."
Right. Adventure Time! Not like the show, but like the time of adventure!
"Alright, so what's my task?" "Your task is to complete the tutorial tomb, like every other foreigner."
"...Well...Ok."
I'm not seeing sights just standing around, right?
Ariel, meanwhile, was doing the shopping for supplies, but also for things like pomelos, whatever fruits she could purchase here to transplant.
According to Uriel, she was pretty eager to chat to everyone using random phrases from her travel book, and could almost-speak almost-chinese by "Extrapolating from those phrases the context of other nearby phrases, linguistically-speaking. Aren't travel books so handy?"
I'm not sure that's the travel book doing that work... But she's raiding all the books she can find.
Newsflash, everyone: tomb raiding seems to involve a lot of statues. Ergo, tomb raiding involves a real lot of work. My poor little stuffed arms...
Oh, yeah. I figured that since no one was around, I'd just go all-natural for this -- humans do naked, I'm told, but I think it's best to just be a cute little doll for a while.
But I guess Gardening might be hard work, too, huh? Ariel seems to enjoy finding basically a giant garden -- she raids that sucker dry.
...Aster told me about the immortality. For Ariel, this little vacation....Is probably a necessity. It's sink-or-swim. "Aaaaah, what lovely air. Isn't it just so charming to be out in strange climes, Uriel?" "Yeah. You think we should hit up the temple of Heaven next? Or the terracotta army?"
... Nevermind.
Meanwhile, I'm still working on tomb-raiding.
"What, do you not *want* me gathering your precious secrets and treasures? Did you deliberately make this annoying?"
The things I do for adventure. Do you know how hard it is to get water out of stuffing? It's pretty hard. You can't just toss me in the dryer.
...Because we've tried that. I felt really, really sick afterwards, and even though Aster found it funny, we agreed not to try that again.
Still, I got her done. Adventure #1, Complete! And I get a VISA upgrade to boot!
Adventure #2, getting lapis and mercury. "Yeah, we got some of that, let me fetch it real quick."
Uriel brings it before I can blink.
Fastest completion time ever. "How did you? You didn't even move!"
“My stepmom…er…Adoptive…foster…? This lady who I’ve lived with forever, anyway… Well, she’s sort of been collecting rocks all day.”
But then she wants bugs, almost to spite me.
Well, I did manage to show her!...And then, literally, showed her. What with giving her those bugs.
And I got another VISA upgrade from that. I don't know why a credit card company has control over travel to a whole nation -- perhaps it is some sort of terrible, monstrous scheme to have their grips into all aspects of society, a veritable octopus of low credit rating!
Good thing I'm getting all these updates -- I guess I'll be OK.
"So, I guess we're kind of done with the adventure parts of your day for a bit?" "Well, they're lovely books; I almost just want to take them home with me!" "Hmm...Foreign books, huh?...Welll...You hold tight while I do a little searching..." "Whatever for?" "Kaching! Oh, I mean, nothing, honey. Why don't you take some home with you? I'm sure the owners of the base-camp won't mind. It'll be like an international library. (That I embezzle from.)" "Weeeeelll, if you think it's alright..."
"Some people just don’t care that you're on a quest – they think that because it’s nearly 2 AM, they should sleep. What do they know?"
"They know when they're tired, maybe?" "...Well-played, 'Vanthe. Well played."
Aster calls me up, and I tell her about the trip -- she wants to know if the credit-octopus has approved me yet, and we laugh. The two of us... She's like nothing else in my world.
I love Ross with all my heart, but I'll admit -- if I had to pick between him and Aster's happiness, there'd almost be no contest. I guess that's why I'm not getting married -- the house, and her wishes, need the space he'd take up.
This is the longest I've ever gone, my entire life, without seeing her. I mean, there must have been a time, when she was a baby and I was just a lifeless doll, that we weren't together -- but it's all black to me. My first sound was her singing to me, and my first thought was her. Not being around her...
It's like a little bit of me isn't here, like a chopped-off limb, sending me phantom tingles.
At the same time, the world feels so much bigger, now that I'm doing things without her. It doesn't change us, but it changes the world. I guess that's what growing up is meant to be, huh?
By the way, China's kind of weird. I mean, who puts triggers to lost tombs underneath their market places? It's like if I
"...Is that...salad with chopt sticks?" "Well, I wanted to have a little fun. They're a great challenge!" "You know... I like seeing you just have fun like this. It's been a while." "Yes, I suppose that's true... I've been enjoying myself, but there's always such weighty matters to attend to..." "Yeah... Well, Rome wasn't built in a day. Enjoy your chopstick-lunch, sweetie."
"The geography of temples is...Kind of odd."
"What do you mean exactly, Mr. Uriel? Oh, hey, I found a keystone!" "From where? How -- did that -- happen?"
Sometimes I suspect that, while she's loving her vacation, Ariel doesn't exactly 'get' how to be a tourist.
I decide to go camping in the tomb -- it's just fun. If I could take Ross down here... Hmmm.... Oh, well.
Anyway, you can't sleep in the motive mobile all the time as you drive, you know?
The next morning, it's back to more adventures, though.
”(It’s such a pity…That she already has a boyfriend. He’s clearly smitten with her. But such is the life of an adventurer, I guess.)”
Once I get what I wanted from him, I kind of have to go -- but I'll try and call him up sometime. He seems nice.
I spend a while in the last tomb: about two of the 6 days we have (now, there's a little over a day left). It's full of incredibly irritating traps, but sooner or later, I get it done.
And it's not even enough! It's enough to make me tear my hair out!
But I manage to get another easy adventure or two, and...
Secondary objective: formally achieved!
With this, I'll be able to spend oodles and oodles of money on...
This! It needs a little remodelling, but less than you'd think; the big priority now is an art space for me and Reed and Aster.
...No matter what happens, a part of me will be important to this family forever.
I get to sculpting, since I want to get my 25 ice sculptures out of the way pronto. I want to do more important things with my life.
Ariel's just enjoying her last day of vacation; she's done many important things in her life, and the most important one's just around the corner... "We absolutely must get a swing set for the main house!" "Absolutely!"
Agreed;
Anyway, it looks like it's time to be heading home. We buy a trunk to pack the mountains of rocks we have to bring home.
"Ariel, baby, we've got it made! We did it!" "Unless the plane crashes, of course." "A-ariel! Don't talk that way!"
It's fine, but by the time we get back, we're so sleepy that we all curl up into our warm, safe beds. I was happy to have an adventure on my own.
But I'm also happy to be home, having helped my family.
No changes to anyone's requirements this time. At least, I don't think. Tune in next time for Ariel's last birthday.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
...*clears throat* Anyyyyway...
Chapter 20: A Toast to Ariel
Spoiler
Anyone watching, any ordinary person of Riverview spying on their neighbors, would have thought this was an ordinary day. An ordinary pair of birthdays at this, a household where all birthdays run together.
And they would be mistaken; critically mistaken. Few days in the history of sims will compare with this one.
But it starts like almost an other day in the Seraphim household:
With Uriel screaming about a gnome.
"Defiler! Get away from Norman's grave! Don't you be doing gnome rituals in a bizarre attempt to revive him as a zombie to do your bidding!"
It is perhaps not his snappiest wail, but he puts his usual effort into it.
"What are you talking about, Uriel...?" The lady of the house, the former angel Ariel, murmurs as she tries to rise out of bed. Her husband reaches a hand to stop her from leaving their bed.
She looks out at the scene causing a ruckus from her balcony.
"Aww, look. He's paying his respects. My Shang Simla tour book said that the custom was to leave food or flowers as an offering -- do you think he's left a little bit of gnome-food?"
"...When we've got zombies, I am sooo telling you I told you so."
Yes, it starts out completely normally. And then, starting out subtly, things begin to change from the ordinary.
This starts with Ariel calling for time off -- she has a busy day ahead of her. In her heart, she's already felt her last day of working at the towers was days ago.
Her first task of the day is to plant those exotic fruits she found, her cherries and pomelos and luscious red pomegranates, with their seeds like white teeth in red gums.
Her final challenge, completed. For a moment, she stands in her garden and dreams of the trees that will grow -- that she will watch grow. Because she knows there are no barriers in her way now.
As one thing draws towards an end, another begins -- her daughter accepts a career in architecture. Perhaps, at one point, she will actually build houses for people.
But given Aster, perhaps that would be not a good idea.
Ariel, at home, claps in celebration of her final birthday.
It always ruins the hair, doesn't it? Still, little aches and bothers are just part of getting old -- that's what they say, anyway.
But with her hair restored (and maybe given a touch more color), she seems to have aged gracefully enough. The future seems a little less scary, at the least.
And the girl's future seems very bright: In one day, she's earned her first promotion.
Besides her, her father works on Ariel's final portrait. Behind him, the subject looks on happily as she quits her job after-all; the family doesn't need the money so much, in the end.
And she uses the time she's not needed for posing to join a new career -- one motivated not by need, but by honest love. She is Ariel Seraphim, professional gardener.
Understandably, she feels inspired as she poses for her sculpture.
Outside is a less subtle juxtaposition of mother and child.
"Reed," says the boy's aging mother softly, stopping the play of his guitar, "I just wanted to wish you a happy birthday...And say how proud I was of you and your music. I spent a long time too afraid to chase my dreams -- I'm happy that you're following your heart."
The boy, used to being more impressed by others than he ever has been thinking of himself as impressive, blushes and stutters out his thanks. He gives his mother a warm hug.
After all, it is his birthday -- and he spends it in the art room, as he has birthdays past, with his ladyfriend clapping him on.
The young man of the house is a handsome fellow. Aster bewails his lack of a hat, though he does decide to wear a second ordinary day outfit inspired by her tastes...
"The goggles do something," he explains to his perplexed mother, "they make the girl I love happy."
It seems as if he's become quite the Family-Oriented young man.
And nothing else happens in the house that night. Nothing for a long time. But today is a day of beginnings and endings -- and as the end of the day begins, a dish is pulled out of the replicator.
The dish is carried to a special room downstairs, where a single table at a single chair has been set up.
And Ariel, carrying that special dish, looks out over her recent past -- her past as a sim. She sees them all and loves them:
The dazzling former angel, slightly unsure of the world. Where she was light, it threw the darkness into such sharp relief. She is the one who looks at herself from across time and smiles, very faintly;
The beautiful mother and career woman, clearer for her recentness, captured in ice;
The quavery her of just this afternoon, folding herself into a series of small points. Perhaps because she is newer, like a butterfly still soggy-winged from the chrysalis.
She was so human then, and she knows she will never be truly an angel after being those women; but nor, after tonight, will she ever be so human again.
"I've changed," she says to the only person awake in her house; she says to the sleepless angel.
"...Maybe a little. I like it, you know that," He wishes he could put a hand on her shoulder, as she always did for him when he was doubting. "But we did it, babe. We've done it."
"Yes, yes we have. We've done it; all of us."
And she sits down to eat.
Many people will say ambrosia tastes bad -- but to Ariel, there is nothing sweeter in all the world. It tastes like home, like nectar from a distant garden that waits, like patient Argus, for its master to return. It is hibiscus-honey and the scent of jasmine and sweet olive.
Ariel has found her divinity again, as it rushes around her like laughing children; she is immortal, from now until the end of days.
In that moment, her eyes catch upwards, and she sees me, staring down at her from the other end of a long, dark tunnel. She is powerless before me, and it turns her blood cold to realize that even in this moment, I am watching.
But for right now, I merely raise my hand in greeting, as the moment of perfect vision closes.
Ariel, dear Ariel; you and I were never precisely 'close.' All the same, you were the sweetest of the angels, and it was your want to learn all our stories. If you knew my story -- that all your efforts are a step in a single, great plan for me -- would you still have come this far?
I pray so. I need you.
Who am I, you ask? Who am I, telling you of this, Ariel Seraphim's triumph and last day as a mortal?
...Just consider me an interested watcher. Pay no attention to me. Instead, let us give a toast.
To Ariel Seraphim, the first immortal.
Ariel Seraphim - complete!
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: The Perfect Garden Career: Business Supermax Skill: Gardening Building, Property: Divisario Budget Books, Lost Willow Park LTR: Super Green Thumb, No Bills Ever, Collection Helper Best Friends: Billy (Caspian) Seraphim, Elaine Joy, Aster Seraphim, Laurel Grisby, Fatima Simovitch, Tom Shallow, Larry Cooper, Anita and Carlotta Lobos, Constance Shelly, Chandra Jacobsin Black Ops: Amateur Olympics, Making Coffee the Executive Way, Seeking More Favorable Taxes, Making Nice with the Newsies, Political Influence, Uncommonly Good, Outflanking the Military Portraits:YA, Adult, Elder Sculptures/Photos: Adult (Sculp), Elder (sculp)
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
That makes sense, I guess, since that's exactly what it was! 1 down, 7 to go!
...And this next chapter's...Well, it's what happens when I let Aster solve problems. 'I'd like to introduce the gnomes,' says I. And then this happened.
Intermission #1: Now For Something Completely Different*
Spoiler
(* Sung to the tune of the Mystery Science Theatre 3000 Theme song)
"In the not-too-distant simverse --
Whatever the timeline be --
There was a girl named Aster
Just a little bit crazy.
Her mom was an angel, just so you know,
though she kind of got stuck in limbo.
Her home sounds like it was a cool city
but just to get back
we need immortality!
'We'll send them some challenges,
the hardest we can find (la-la-la).
Aster will have to do them all
and we'll monitor her mind (la-la-la).'
Now keep in mind I can't control
where my visions begin or end (la-la-la
Because I use those bits of brain
to name my gnome-y friends.
Gnome-Bot Gnome Call: (Alright, Let's go!)
Dante (Hey, aren't they chinese?)
Jade (Hi, girl!)
Antonio (What a cool gnome!)
Cavegnooome! (He's a cavegnome.)
If you're wondering how they sculpt in ice
and other logic facts (la la la),
then repeat to yourself, 'it's just her life,
I should really just relax
For Aster's Turn at Narrating 3000!'"
"...What?"
"It's a theme song I wrote. Do you like it?" "...It's sure..." "Special. It's special, isn't it, Uriel?" "Yeah, that's exactly right! (thanks for saving my bacon there, Ariel.)"
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
I really enjoyed these last three. I had no idea Evanthe could revert to her doll form at will, but it makes sense she would do so; she looks soft enough to take a pitfall or two. Her personality's great, she has just enough nuttiness to pair well with Aster. My favorite part was where Aster called her and revealed they think on the same brainwave even on different continents.
It tickles me pink that the gnomes have gnames gnow. Clever work on the intermission.
And as for Ariel's finale, it has a lot going for it. First, nice reference with the goggles. Reed knows the purpose of the goggles. Second..... The unnamed narrator creeped me out, possibly in the biggest way by reading even Uriel's text as normal and unmodified. Even if it is Ariel and Uriel's boss, that little detail helped establish just how powerful this speaker is. Third, I like how you're handling the immortality; this really conveys the sense that Ariel has told her story and climbed her mountain, and from here on out it's mostly going to be coasting and letting the humans have their own stories and climbs. I know you explained she'd be out as a primary character after this but I didn't imagine the transition would be done this well.
I'll say it now, and probably again later. This is a great, great read.
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Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
I really enjoyed these last three. I had no idea Evanthe could revert to her doll form at will, but it makes sense she would do so; she looks soft enough to take a pitfall or two. Her personality's great, she has just enough nuttiness to pair well with Aster. My favorite part was where Aster called her and revealed they think on the same brainwave even on different continents.
Actually, not only can Evanthe turn into a doll at-will, but there's at least a 50%, possibly even a straight-up 100% chance (No one has a story to counter it), that her kid will be able to do so as well. And possibly her kid's kid. In which case, this dynasty may end up having the last 5 generations be able to do so, though the extent to which they'll do it is up in the air.
That said, I really came to loooove playing Evanthe while working on that chapter -- both playing it and writing it. She's pretty fun, and it wouldn't surprise me if she got more solo chapters while she adventures.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
It tickles me pink that the gnomes have gnames gnow. Clever work on the intermission.
I'll be trying to introduce gnew gnomes as they appear; I let these guys (except Cavegnome) pile up for a while.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
And as for Ariel's finale, it has a lot going for it. First, nice reference with the goggles. Reed knows the purpose of the goggles. Second..... The unnamed narrator creeped me out, possibly in the biggest way by reading even Uriel's text as normal and unmodified. Even if it is Ariel and Uriel's boss, that little detail helped establish just how powerful this speaker is.
Thank you very much specifically on this measure. I love speculation and concern about my various shadowy figures, and this is officially the best one on the subject of the unnamed narrator. I suspect the other forum thinks that it's me, since "watcher" is code for "player" in stories there. I'll keep mum on the correctness of that theory. But I bring this up because if it were me, that'd really be something to worry about, as opposed to just let it slide by. But they'll start to figure that out sooner or later...tee-hee...
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
Third, I like how you're handling the immortality; this really conveys the sense that Ariel has told her story and climbed her mountain, and from here on out it's mostly going to be coasting and letting the humans have their own stories and climbs. I know you explained she'd be out as a primary character after this but I didn't imagine the transition would be done this well.
I wouldn't say she's not a "primary character," but then, I'm not sure where you define "primary character." There's still some stories left to tell -- I mean, Billy's still alive and all (and boy, am I not looking forward to when *that* changes) ...But her challenge is certainly over, and this story as a whole is the story of the challenge.
So she gets to rest. The things she does and the stories she's a part of in the family's narrative are going to be ones she wants to be a part of, as opposed to things she has to do. But I'd rather not just park my immortals in front of the TV all day every day, you know?
And anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed the transition out of her mountain-climb to the top. The view from the first immortal's hill is both lovely and daunting for me. I mean, she had the least time for her goals...But she also had the fewest things around to create problems. And there are so many hills left to climb.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Toric
I'll say it now, and probably again later. This is a great, great read.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Chapter 21: To the Sims, to make much of Time
Spoiler
Mom came into my room last night, when she thought I was asleep; something about her glowed, sending shimmering auroras on the walls. Everything was pearlescant, opalescent, in the light of her. Like a moon.
She thought I was asleep, and she sat on the edge of my bed. I wanted to move, but something about her face, pale and drawn as it looked through the bars of my eyelashes, made me want to say still.
Something must have shaken her up pretty bad, and her and Uriel whispered for a little while -- and I couldn't tell if they were happy or sad. I think something unseen, something hidden, may have hurt her. That's exactly why they should be hidden things, not one bit. I want to show them that light -- I want them to be seen in that immortal light.
Anyway, she sat there for a while, and patted the edge of my foot, and eventually smiled again. I closed my eyes for a moment, and when I opened them again, she was gone. And it was morning.
In the morning, she cheerfully informed us that she had achieved her objective. Hooray!
Oh, but she wasn't the only one celebrating. Because it was graduation day for all of us Seraphim/Joys.
So we all piled together in the motive mobile to head to city hall.
Reed was voted most Artistic (hey, I wanted that one!)
I did, however, get to be Valedictorian and “most likely to offend others.” What exactly do they mean by that? I don't go around offending people willy-nilly! They just can't handle my brilliant and creative insight. I mean, maybe I made paintings of my teachers with something red coating their hands and body and all those knives... But it's not my fault if everyone gets hot and bothered when I'm just trying to teach the dangers of cutting the crusts off a pomegranate jelly sammich!
Poor Evanthe -- being seen as a loser all through high school means she just graduates without any sort of award.
"But no more school! No more society, pulling the free-thinker down with their bad vibe merchant indoctrination!" "But Aster... Don't you still have jobs to do? With clients?" Reed points out.
"...And they will accept my far-out stylings. SURE AS THIS DIPLOMA LANDS BACK IN MY HAND, ALL THE TOWN SHALL SUBMIT TO THE ARCHITECTURE OF ASTER!" "Now, see," Daddy says to the air (and probably Uriel, unless maybe he's talking to the invisible pink unicorn), "Is *your* influence." "Feh." "... Is there a reason nothing involving my daughter can be because of me? Well, dears?"
Mom pipes up, chuckling.
"You know...The first step.... I'm going to add another floor to the house!" "...Oh my. Uriel?" Mom asks, her hand at her mouth. "I'll keep things restrained."
Uriel recomends against neon-purple spires to the sky for some reason, possibly involving physics.
But he does let me add a third floor with some new balconies. We need a place for Evanthe's fishing, and little pets are the newest fad, and I personally want to see a descendant in a lab one day!
I may talk Mom into maybe reducing the number of ponds and moving her garden -- there's just a need for new yardspace, you know?
But later. I think as happy as Mom is for her immortality, the fact of the matter is is... Everyone else is still enduring time, and Daddy and Aunt Elaine won't live forever. Mom's friends are starting to die, too.
Even the plants die, leaving her crying. My poor Momma.
I don't know if it's just to comfort Elaine or Mom or what -- but Reed's started painting our new Sim Gnubb set in everyone's favorite colors. Two Whites and Two Blacks, for Mom and him and Daddy and I. One Grey, for Evanthe. One pink, for Aunt Elaine. And one last white one... "Is that one for Norman, kiddo?" "Even if I didn't know him really, growing up and all... He's my grandfather. He's part of this family."
That man. <3
”That reminds me of somebody…Thinking of someone?”
“Maaaaaybe….” ”Aww. Why don’t we keep that one in your bedroom?...And maybe one day you can make a real portrait of him?”
“You really think we can get the king of the martians here?” ”What?”
“Wait, what are you talking about?” ”Nevermind, Princess…”
"...Maybe I should paint a portrait of Reed. He's been so sweet, lately. And the king of the martians does have his hair color."
Anyway, Mom's been soothing her worries by her and Dad, as Mom likes to say, 'gathering their rosebuds while they may.'
Silly parents! Ice Cream, even at midnight, are not rosebuds. The ice cream truck only passes by our house at midnight -- is it a ghost ice cream truck? Does the ice cream taste of ectoplasm?
...Oh. Ooooh.
Apparently 'rosebuds' is code for other, less family-friendly, things. Who knew?
Well, there are plenty of rosebuds for them to gather, then. "That's not what that phrase means, honey! It's from a poem about seizing the day! The times you enjoy the most...Can be so short if you don't act on them."
"Oh. Well, I guess I better gather my own rosebuds, then!"
... "...Ariel, did you just unleash a force of pure chaos again?" "Well, at least it's not my responsibility anymore."
And I get to work on my own flowers-of-choice (maybe Asters? Wait. I have gathered all the Asters that I know of. Mission accomplished?)! By painting my favorite man. And hitting level 4 of my career. Architectural design = world's easiest job.
"Arrrriiiieeeel! The madness is spreading! He's made pancakes, but he's not holding any pancakes!" "And this is my problem? I've done my part, Uriel. I'm going to go play in the sprinklers." "Retirement agrees with you a little too well there, Sugarlips."
In-between my busy painting, I find time for dinner with my favorite people in the worlds.
"So, it looks like I got promoted again! Do you think my paintbrush contains a tiny spy camera, so they know what I'm doing? ...Like a spy... I wonder what sort of drink a paintbrush-wielding spy drinks; do you think they do cherry nectar, stirred, not shaken, with giant red plumes of flames?" "Eh, it seems unlikely... I mean, do you think either of us could have the attention span to be spies?" Reed points out.
Evanthe changes the subject. "Ok, I'm going to use this baseball I've always had even just once before I die...Or I will go completely fruit loops."
"I guess that's why people have kids; to further dynasties or play baseball."
Those things are probably of about equal importance.
Reed and I spend our after-dinner time cuddling outside on the grass, under the stars. No matter what happens, we'll always have time for each-other...
I wonder if he's thinking about marrying me soon.
If he's not, maybe I should just get a puppy! The Coulters called me to say that they have some for adoption. I'll go check it out! "Umm...Maybe if you...I mean, maybe tomorrow we..." "She's gone, kiddo. If you want to say something, you may want say it when she's...you know. On the lot." "I know..."
Ok, so newsflash -- those puppies were terrible. They were all really aggressive. But hey -- Ann's my friend, so I can at least hang around and talk to her, right?
...Orrrr not. I mean, when it's too awkward for me, that's a special sort of awkward. Better just let her take care of business.
When I get home, Evanthe's apparently finished her 25th ice sculpture. Which means something we've been waiting for is ready to happen. "I'm sooo happy your dad let me do this for you. I really...wanted to add something to this project."
"You have, silly! You're my best friend... Don't think that any sculptures or fish will ever matter more than that."
"Hey, Ariel...I had a question. You're such a reader; does this city of angels have books?" "Of course! The silver city is home to a good many poets and writers who would come to write of us, though they'd already done it from their perspective...
And from our perspective those books hadn't been written and the poets hadn't been born...
But somehow, all the same, they're in the city because spacetime..." "Ariel, I'm not sure I needed an explanation that involves physics." "But everyone needs an explanation that involves temporal physics!" "...Is this why Reed's homework always had comments on it like 'theoretical physics is not in the curriculum'? Ariel." "Heh-heh-heh...Learning is fun? Well, anyway, we had a lot of books, some of which will never be written. But books that have been written and actually exist -- those are much more exciting!"
And they say I'm the crazy one.
A new Arcade opened up in town, and Reed and I decided to go out and see it. "Don't worry. I checked them rose-dwelling tragedy parasites for you."
"Did you look for the moment where roses wilt and it makes you worry about your relationship, so you toss them away?" "Yeah, Aster... I looked. It's not there."
"Yaaaay!"
And Evanthe and Ross decide to head out on a trip to the diner, too. It was meant to be a date, but for some reason...
It just ended up as them hanging out.
Maybe it's because he talked about benches. Benches = unromantic topic.
And Mom drops off some fruit for Ms. Shelley and reminisces at length about her days as a desk jockey. I hope I don't have her bad luck with skill opportunities.
Now, Reed and I have some interest in furniture...But it's not that sort of thing.
It's much better, sitting there in his arms, feeling his hands like gold sunbeams on my neck, my shoulder, wrapping around my waist. The couch's barrier is liquid and for a moment there I am alive in a sea of his kisses, his whispers in my ear, crowding out all the noises --
the never-were sounds and the cries of broken machinery and the soft sounds that light and pigment make --
And I realize that I don't know how to make this never stop, as it all blurs together in my head.
I pull myself aside and have a talk.
"How do I do that? How do I do it? Maybe if I painted a portrait -- I mean, another portrait -- only this one contained his soul and then I built a cage around the portrait and then his soul would stay in this moment and I'd be real for him and our bodies could just keep going and it wouldn't matter at all!...Or is it the other way around, and the paintings would..." "Princess, sweetie...Little logistics question: if you're trying to preserve the feeling of a moment, why did you interrupt it by going to do this?"
"Ahh! You're right! Stupid-Stupid-Stupid! Ree-eed!"
But...It's not like Evanthe's date is going any better. In fact, it's going worse. For whatever reason, Ross refuses to kiss her.
So instead she goes off to fish, and I can't blame her. I can't imagine what it's like, to have the person you care about most refuse to kiss you, for no good reason.
... Actually I can, and it's scary.
Reed and I end up going to the roof for a while -- they have a deck there, and we can watch the stars like we did as teenagers. The stars still seem so close, next to him, glittering like diamonds...
Like diamonds...
An idea dawns, and I push aside the six other ideas buzzing in my head.
"Reed. Reed. There's something...I had an idea." "An idea?"
I find something in my pocket -- I guess there are unseen things that want to help, too.
"An idea. I love you, Reed...And...I want us to be happy like this for as long as we can..." "Aster...Are you saying..."
The perfect solution; all of time crystallized so I could know it.
"Reed Joy...Will you marry me?"
"I was going to ask...I mean, eventually...I..." He gives up and lets the excitement take him.
"Yesyesyesyesyes! Yes!"
"Good. I don't know what I'd have done if you would have said no." "I'm sure you would have thought of something, my lovely bride-to-be. You always do."
After all, there are only so many stars I can watch with Reed. But I'll want to, even long after the stars have lost their glow.
Gather your stardust while ye may.
Aster Seraphim's Requirements
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: Living in the Lap of Luxury Career: Architect Supermax Skill: Painting Building, Property: Hogan's Deep-Fried Diner, Romper Recreational Park LTR: Observant, Attractive, Extra Creative Best Friends: Ariel Seraphim, Reed Joy, Evanthe Seraphim, Ann Coulter Black Ops: When Dream Come True, Scavenger Hunt: Rare Elements, A fishy science project, Outside Reading Portraits: Toddler, Child, Teenager, YA Sculptures/Photos: Child (sculp), Teen (sculp), YA (sculpt)
Also, we're now officially caught up with my file. Huzzah!
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
....It's sad that my first thought when I pondered that quote was the second activity presented. Especially since I really can't imagine Ariel making a euphemism like that once I stop to think about it.
I like how Generation 2's so in tune with Aster. They're perfectly comfortable either ignoring or jumping on board her leaps in logic, while Gen 1's fairly clueless and dismissive. They're a very tight-knit trio. And from Evanthe at dinner to Reed's engagement face to every fourth picture of Aster, they make all the best faces.
Poor, poor Evanthe. First tromping around a trap-laiden tomb, then graduating a loser, then getting caught cross-eyed in a photo and being shot down on a date. The doll girl just needs a hug. Hopefully she'll respond to the news of her friends' much better date in a positive way.
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Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
@VonFenris: Thank you very much! I do try my hardest.
@ Toric: Well, the poem is kind of totally about that second activity... But all the same, Ariel sees the broader message sincerely; getting icecream at midnight with her man is gathering her rosebuds just as much, as would be things like jumping on a trampoline or playing in the sprinklers together. Because, where she is in her life, it's only the first stanza that really has meaning to her, and it has that so very much:
"GATHER ye rosebuds while ye may,
Old time is still a-flying :
And this same flower that smiles to-day
To-morrow will be dying."
- Rober Herrick
...Yeah, it's a bit of a bummer. But Ariel and Billy are really still very much in-love; the two of them roll wishes to be with each other a lot, and have for their whole marriage. I like to let them follow their wishes when I can, since I figure that and free will are really the best baseline I have for the stories they want to be a part of. So that makes it all really sweet for me to play.
Anyway, also, thank you for all the attention you pay to our trio; I doubt there will be another quite like it in this dynasty, and I'll miss it when it's gone. As for Poor 'Vanthey... If he blows her off again, I may have her dump him and maybe see if she can't find some comfort with that chinese guy she made friends with.
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Chapter 22: It's a Hunka Hunka Burning Hot Tub
Spoiler
"Oh, hey! I totally forgot something!" "W-wait, I thought we were in the middle of some--"
"I need to upgrade Romper Recreational!"
I dash off to go put those much-needed touches on. "...It's not like I didn't know about this before I agreed to marry her..." "Yeah, well, it could be worse, kiddo."
The main feature is the installation of a brand new bathroom area, but I took the liberty of going ahead and also adding an area for toddlers: because someone needs to think of the children!
"When will those playground designers think of the children!...Hey, you think I should put some sort of giant statue belching fire in there?" "...The children."
"But I loved fire when I was a child!" "No. ALso, where would you get one?"
"...You make a good point."
Evanthe must still be pretty bummed about her non-date.
Cheer up, Vanthey! At least your fishing is improving, and you can catch more fish!
Does that make you feel better? No?
Well what if...
Oh, wait. I'm talking to an image. Woopsie.
Anyway, I continue my architectural spree by making over all the "unclaimed" spaces of the house to match my ideal wallpaper and flooring...And, while I'm at it, completely re-do the living room. Well, except for the TV: I don't care about it enough to change it, and that's the best wall.
The angel sculpture's for mom, and I have plans for that back corner: we may need it if we get a pet sometime.
I still need to work on the art room, but I'm not too worried.
We also re-do the immortal museum, for more space and easier viewing access. I'm the only person who goes down there ordinarily -- I guess I'm the only one who sees these paintings as more than just records: they're like mirrors that got frozen in time, like they're trying to capture something of me that slides, like a silver fish through a rainbow stream of time, out of reach. I never knew that toddler in the widest portrait, happily watching her daddy paint her. But I was her. How does that happen? I'd really like to understand.
While I'm doing the hard work, Mom's been wandering at night. Most of the family has an odd sleep schedule -- maybe I'll buy a car that's not a motive mobile, so those of us that don't need the time can get an ordinary schedule, a schedule that allows the fae-government alliance (what, you think the government and faeries aren't in a dread cabal? You fool.)
Anyway, while she was wander-collecting, she found this really pretty bird. "A parrot...This is far from the tropics, little friend. Are you some pretty lost thing, used to your cage, who's fallen free of the skies and lost her way?" "...Ariel...Do we really have the space for a --"
Now, Uriel won't say exactly what went down, but I can guess -- Mom gave him a single, pleading glance from her big blue eyes, having lost none of their vibrancy...
And he folded faster than Reed when he sees me in my coconut top, a speed hitherto unknown to man or angel, the only thing faster than the speed of light itself.
And that is how the parrot Rin came to live with us.
If Uriel must know, though, we actually do have the space! For the time being, parts of the third floor is a space for small pets and things like Evanthe's fish!
So Rin will probably live over there.
Mom starts teaching her to talk, beginning with words of love. Come to that, that's how she taught me to talk when I was very small.
...Hmmm...If she's teaching us to talk in some way, then we must be alike. If Rin's a surrogate child, then I must... YES. I AM A SURROGATE PARROT.
TO THE BALCONY!
...
... "Aster. Get back behind the railing before you fall."
"I'm busy trying to figure out the path of the up and down drafts. Do you think the updrafts leave thin swoops of red in the air, where the heat of the rising air tastes like strawberries and blooms into bright red flowers of oxygen?" "Princess, you're not a parrot. You can't fly."
"...*grumble*...You just think you know everything...Well, it's not like I can find a good updraft anyway..."
I guess I better get back to painting.
"What's that, sweetie?" Dad asks as he looks over from a sculpting station.
“It’s an abstract representation of how I worry Evanthe will feel when I tell her, with her boy troubles… Oh, and it’s a pile of books.”
He nods, thoughtfully.
"And what's tha ... OH MY GOD, IT'S A GIANT ROCK!" "It's an easter island head. It's my first masterpiece in stone!"
"Of course it is! It's a rock and it's giant!" "But it was... Oh, nevermind."
Anyway, my Reed-honey's off to get a job.
Specifically, he's become a stylist! The people are already thronging around, trying to get new haircuts!
This gets him out of the house for a few hours, anyway, which means...
"Ladies! The marshmallow peep has exploded in the microwave!" "...What? We don't own a microwave."
"It's code!" "What's it code for?"
"It's code for 'the Dachsund's off to hunt the badger!" "we also don't have a dachsund." "...What I think my daughter means to say is that Reed's left the house for a few hours," Mom adds.
"Exactly! Everyone to your battle stations! Mom!" "Oh, but I was just getting an award from city hall for my gardening..."
"But Mooo-ooom!" "Coming, dear..."
"Auntie Elaine!" "But the toilet just broke! That makes for 3 broken appliances..."
"It can wait! It's time to begin 'Operation Nectar-Goes-Everywhere!'" "You mean your bachelorette party?"
"Oh, yeah. That, too! Dress to impress, everyone!"
"I just realized that there's only one girl on the guest list. Oh, well. It's a party, right?"
"...What are you wearing?"
"Well, I threw it together kinda last-minute; I didn't think my beret was all that appropriate." "Because you would know." "What did you do to your hair?" "Don't worry Ariel, I can fix it. I am quite the stylista...Stylistus? Stylistum? Stylistum isn't even a word, is it?" "But if you assume it's taking a latin gender ending, then I'd suppose Stylistum would be correct...Anyway, I leave her in your hands."
"After the party, I don't want my real hair getting soaked when --"
...When the nectar fights begin. They are long, bitter, and...Really, really tasty!
Once the plan begins in earnest, it's not long until I've turned the tables, giggling all the while.
"Now that I've soaked you... Would you be willing to make a toast for me, Vanthey? As a maid of honor?" "Oh, of course..."
"Listen up! Aster's getting married...And I'd like to say how happy I am for her. She's always been her own person -- enough of her own person, really, to instill reality on another person.
Except today, when she's her own dog, apparently..."
"Woof!" "And I worried sometimes, that she wouldn't find someone who loved her, not as a friend but as a lover, for all that person. Or dog.
And I think we all need to wish her all the best in the world!"
Everyone claps, on cue.
"All the best in the world... In the form of male dancers."
Evanthe and I go upstairs to watch them -- our own private showing. Just us, the male dancers, an invisible menace exuded from all parties, and the spotlight pixies. They're a relative of the confetti pixies.
Mom and Daddy dance below... And, really? After all the fuss Mom and Uriel made over my clothes, they wore that?
I said 'dress to impress,' not 'dress like happy hobos.' But they at least enjoy the party together.
Or they do until the hot tub catches on fire. "And you aren't perplexed by this?"
"About what? Water's naturally flammable." "...What?...Nevermind! Someone just tell me how this works!"
"Have you ever noticed that people with water always seem to be around a fire? People will say it's because water puts the fire out, but that's clearly just a cover-up!" "Someone sane, just tell me how this works!"
I guess some people would say fire does not a good party make...
What do they know? Once the fire got put out, everyone who went home said they had a great time.
"Hot tub...Fire....Water... HOW?"
Aster Seraphim's Requirements
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: Living in the Lap of Luxury Career: Architect Supermax Skill: Painting Building, Property: Hogan's Deep-Fried Diner, Romper Recreational Park LTR: Observant, Artisan Crafter, Extra Creative Best Friends: Ariel Seraphim, Reed Joy, Evanthe Seraphim, Lindsay Coulter, Helmut Roderickson, Jacob Roderickson, Ross Dorman Black Ops: When Dream Come True, Scavenger Hunt: Rare Elements, A fishy science project, Outside Reading Portraits: Toddler, Child, Teenager, YA Sculptures/Photos: Child (sculp), Teen (sculp), YA (sculpt)
Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
Chapter 23: A Dark Photograph
Spoiler
One of the first things that happened after the party ended was that Evanthe decided to go off and become an angler; she's lucky that she can basically have any job she wants, any time she wants it. So right now, she's an angler, with no master but herself and the wild ocean!
And apparently she decided to celebrate by changing her colors.
I wish I could do that -- not turn into a doll, I mean, but change my colors like that. Change, change like a butterfly...To be rainbow when the mood strikes, or mauve; to be shimmering, incandescent candle of a person, to be a butterfly turning black in the smog-filled air...
You could be anything and nothing, and eventually you'd be invisible, and enjoy the secrets of the unseen. I'd like to paint me changing colors one day -- we'll see, we'll see...
Or was she always that pretty greenish color, and I'm not remembering it right? Or maybe she's always been changing color, and I never noticed. Maybe we've all changed color a million times, and I never knew. I don't know. "She changed back, didn't she? She was grey in China, but here she's back to green...?"
"Are you secretly a chameleon, Vanthe?" "No, I am not a lizard...But that would be really cool! Or maybe an octopus!"
"Oh, yeah. Thos bio-camouflage really beautifully...To be an octopus on the coral reef, fighting mersims...Crushing ships...Being self-loathing..." "...Having an eye disturbingly similar in structure to a human eye?"
"Exactly!"
Reed's still workin on his music -- but now he has a nice new uniform to play in. Something about a collared shirt suits him.
"Hey, do you know 'I crush everything'?" "I've never serenaded with Jonathan Coultan, but I can give it a shot." "Uhh...Aster? That song was about a squid, not an octopus."
"Oh. Nevermind, Reed." "Can I still serenade you? I can try and sound evil enough for a round 'Skullcrusher Mountain!'
This painting is a brilliant one, my third. This painting is my 15th painting. So now I'm halfway done two challenges.
Anyway, Evanthe tries to give Ross a call -- she needs to know if this is working. If they're working. I can sympathize -- with all the wedding planning Mom's into, and my jitters and my moodswings and my -- ooh shiny -- and I forgot what I was talking about.
Oh, anyway, Reed's been getting a lot of use out of
Though it's not always a smooth go...
"Maybe it's like a fairytale and a kiss will wake him up!" "If a think of such a nature is occurring...I believe we're quite prepared."
"Stupid Billy and all that stupid snuggling..." "...I'd drop it if I were you, Mr. Uriel. I mean, you and Aunt Ariel are going to be here forever; Uncle Billy doesn't have that sorta time." "You think I don't know how little time there could be left, kiddo? I know. Me and her -- we know it more than anyone. So I gotta enjoy grumbling while I can."
That doesn't sound right...
But I need to go to work! Yeah, I know! I'm actually doing work!
I was supposed to just add a new TV, a new sound system, a bed -- stuff like that... But that's for sissies. What this man's room needs...
Is a giant Octopus sculpture. OCTOPI FOREVER!
Meanwhile... "Have you been working out? it looks nice... Maybe you can show me your throwing arm later, stud..."
Not the approach I'd take, but...
It seems to work for her. Uriel's keeping me aware of the gossip while I wait for my review.
Whatever their troubles were, they seem over for now.
Anyway, the home-owner's here.
And he likes it! He really likes it! But he doesn't love it, except for how I came in under budget. Maybe the giant plant in the bedroom corner is too much?
I'll try better next time.
Mom's life isn't entirely kissy-face, just so we're clear. She also loves taking care of Rin, and watches her flying around the room.
So I can pick up her slack.
"I was thinking... Is it alright if we carve our vows into a giant ruby, the ruby-moonstone of the dream king maybe, forged of dreams itself? And then we launch it into space and it burns up on re-entry, so only the vows remain, floating up among the stars..." "With what money?"
"...Well, we could sell the giant ruby and --" "Well, then how would we launch it into space?"
"Hmmm...I just want...I just want something spectacular! Something amazing!"
"Because you deserve something so earth-shatteringly fabulous that it gets so awesome it breaks reality in half. That's how special you are." "Honey...Anything you do is spectacular; you shatter my earth every day....Though, as a straight stylist, I should try and avoid the stereotypes, so I can't say if you're fabulous."
I decide we can plan better with the blood flowing up...and down...And up...And down...And up...
And anyway, we make our plans by the trampoline.
Mom's out collecting seeds...So I know it isn't her who took it...
I think it must have been Aunt Elaine. It may have been, anyway...Who added something precious to our museum while Reed and I were cuddling beneath the stars.
Aster Seraphim's Requirements
Spoiler
Lifetime Wish: Living in the Lap of Luxury Career: Architect Supermax Skill: Painting Building, Property: Hogan's Deep-Fried Diner, Romper Recreational Park LTR: Observant, Artisan Crafter, Extra Creative Best Friends: Ariel Seraphim, Billy (Caspian) Seraphim, Reed Joy, Evanthe Seraphim, Lindsay Coulter, Helmut Roderickson, Jacob Roderickson, Ross Dorman Black Ops: When Dream Come True, Scavenger Hunt: Rare Elements, A fishy science project, Outside Reading Portraits: Toddler, Child, Teenager, YA Sculptures/Photos: Child (sculp), Teen (sculp), YA (sculpt and Photo)
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Re: The Seraphim Immortal Dynasty: A Sims 3 Story LP
....And formal legwarmers. 
To Aster: Rock on, you insane diamond.
