The Next Generation (Part 2)

And we continue where we left off in my longest Legacy week ever.

Maybe you can keep his attention if you dress up and put on makeup like her.
*sigh* What a pointless conversation.
Whose attention is Sephia trying to keep? Got a boyfriend, dudette?
No!
It's not hard to figure out, it's-ow! What'd you do that for, Sephia?
Shhh! We'll talk about it later, like after dinner, where nosy ears can't hear us.
Like hers.
I sure hope she's not trying to be sneaky. With these windows I literally saw her coming a mile away.

Sounds like an interesting movie. Tell me when it comes out, won't you? Well, I should be getting to bed. Night, 'Spire.
Goodnight, Spirit.
Good evening.
Good evening!
Why do I sense that greeting was not for me?
Could we have some alone time?
Geez, I never have any time to talk to either of you.
Are either of you still awake?
*snore*
I'll take that as a no.



Whoo, now she is hot!
Oh? What about Kate?
Oh yeah, Kate... Just give me a date get her out of my system.
That would probably be the opposite of what happened, but you don't have time right now, you have to go to work. We'll see if you feel that way when you get back.



Congratulations Sephia!
I rock!
Yes, you do.



Hey Dad, can I ride in the plane with you sometime? That'd be so cool, and we could shoot down bad guys, and...
Probably not, right Allen?
Definitely not. He's lucky his mother didn't hear him. A military plane is no place for an 11-year-old boy.



Hi Rondo. Changed your mind about this neighborhood's Amaya?
Not really, but just when I was 'bout to go upstairs and grab a shower, Sephia grabbed me and said, "Dance with me!" and I can't turn down the little dudette.
So that's where that dance came from. It's so cute!
Who's she?
Followed Amanti home, but he wouldn't give her the time of day. So I figured I'd be nice and let her at least get some food before she left.
*under breath* I can't win. But Kate started it, so if I can just get rid of her...



Good morning! Oh come on, we need to talk! *sigh*
We're gonna grow up and be big soon like Rondo and Amanti! I'm so excited!
That's what I need to talk about.
I'm jealous. Aspen's already in high school with Rondo.
Don't worry, you'll be joining them soon.
Okay, I admit it. I just liked the congo line to the bus.
Congratulations. So, do you think you'll follow in your aunt's footsteps and become a great actor?
Nah, that's not as interesting as figuring out how Mom's fingerprint scanner works.
The whole lot of them. A bunch of nerds. Well, except Sedona.



At least the nerds have jobs. That they've topped! Wonderful job!
It was nothing.
Good job to you too, Rondo!
My job rocks.
Wow! The only skill scholarship you missed was for creativity, and you made that up with your job!
Of course. Creativity skill requires doing things below my dignity.
Playing the piano is below your dignity?
Whatever.
I should say goodbye to you for now, Miss Fini, as I will be leaving for college soon.
Actually, we've been needing to talk about that. It fits in with the heirs and spares talk, which we've never had. Here's the short version. As I did with your mother and aunt, one of you five will have to come back home after graduation, marry an NPC and have at least two kids to carry on the Green name and legacy. That is the heir. The other children are called spares, in case the heir does something stupid like get himself or herself killed before offspring are produced, and pleading for their life doesn't work. I do the choosing.
So, am I the heir, or a spare?
You would be my second choice, but at the moment, you're a spare.
Alright.
I was expecting a lot more argument from you. Wait, in case the sibling I pick does get killed, would you be amenable to returning?
Does that mean I have to marry and reproduce?
Well, you have to reproduce. I guess the marriage thing is optional. But reproduction is not.
I will think about it.
For now, that will work. See ya, Amanti.
Farewell.

See ya dude.
Goodbye son.
Bye big brother.
Bye bye Amanti!
Dudette, he's already in the van.
Amanti Galant Green, don't you dare leave without saying goodbye to your mother!
Goodbye, Mother?
*sigh* I'll miss you. Will he be coming back, Miss Fini?
As far as we know, no.
Oh, pooh. Goodbye, my son.
May I go now, Mother?
Yes.
See ya kid. Four left, one of which will be coming back.

Now that we're equal, we've got to stick together even more. It's just you and me, Sedona, and Mom can't keep an eye on the boys like we can. That's what best friends do, help each other out.
So, you want me to help you get rid of Kate.
That's right. Thanks Sedona. You're the only one that really understands me. You are truly my best friend.
She never actually agreed to it. Did I ever tell you that I worried about you, Sephia?
One gone, three to go!
That's true, but why are you so happy now?
Once the others go and the heir comes back, we can get our grandbabies!
That is true, but aren't you rushing it a bit?
Do you have teenaged children, Miss Fini?
Nope, I have no children. Not planning on them either. If I were a sim, I'd be knowledge, with a secondary of either pleasure or fortune. Probably pleasure.
Secondary?
Oh yeah, not till Free Time.
Free Time?
Don't worry about it. That I can guarantee you won't see.



Whoa, give her some room to breathe!
She doesn't mind.
Of course she doesn't mind... teenagers.
Well, this is it, son.
I wonder why Spirit didn't take him. I'd think you'd be banned from stepping foot on Academie Le Tour again after having a liaison with a student.
Nonsense.
You really like that puffy red vest, don't you?
You say that as if I had a choice in the matter.
Why couldn't you grow up into something decent? Manhattan Gray did.
And now he has gone on to the great sim beyond.
...How'd you know that?
Did you think all the books I read were for skill points? I decided to look up this "Legacy". And since you are so fond of your alias, I was able to track your last attempts--and failures.
You're a sneaky little thing. And if you know that, you ought to know what happened. Not my fault.
Don't let my distance fool you, son--I love you and I'll miss you.
Father? You can let go of me now.
Did I ever tell you that you suck the magic right out of things?
Ribs are really filling for a family of six.
I guess I'm still used to cooking for eight. And I love our new grill.
Wow. I knew about the kids, but I totally forgot about Spirit and Allen. I've almost caught up to where I was on the Gray section of the blog. It'll still be a bit before I catch up in play.



I didn't know they still had spelling bees in high school.
Me neither. But I won! I totally rock.
I agree.

Well, looks like it's time. I'm not stupid enough to have a quintuple birthday party, and I don't want to be unfair and let some party and others not. Besides, it will mess up the ages.
So we're doing this the old-fashioned way. First is Allen. Ready?
I never thought I'd reach this day. Bring it on!
Alright, he's definitely ready. Let's go!
OMG! *rofl*
What's so funny? He looks distinguished.
Oh no no no no no. Brooklyn and Remi were distinguished. That's just hilarious.
Don't worry about her honey. It's your turn.
Now see? That's nice and not orange. You decided to stay pink, I see.
It's just me.
Yep, sugar and spice.
Wow, Mom's old.
You should live so long, kid.
You can read my thoughts too?
I'm the equivalent of God.
Now on to the trips. Sephia, as the oldest, of course goes first.
I am so ready.
Then let's go!
And Houston, we have a teenager. So, you think you know what you want to do with yourself?
I want to party it up, just like Rondo!
Girl, you're starting to seriously scare me.
Well, it's not the same. I don't want to settle down on one person immediately, like Rondo did.
So, 50 first dates, huh?
Yep. I'm gonna set a record.
Actually, you will, if you make it. I've never fulfilled that lifetime want before.
Well, you do look really pretty! It shouldn't be a problem.
Thanks!
Now for Sedona. You ready?
I guess.
Man, you'd think you stayed in the red all the time, with your lack of enthusiasm. Let's age you up and maybe that dark cloud will disappear.
You are a knockout, Sedona. Is that a smile I see?
No, that's a sigh.
Whatever.
So what do you think you want to do with yourself?
Nothing with myself. But bring a boy along and we've got something.
No! No! You have no idea what you're stepping into!
No time like the present to learn.
*headdesk*
If it makes you feel better, the worst I was dreaming of was becoming a professional party guest.
That warrants a sigh of relief. You could do a whole lot worse. And no, I'm not telling you how.
Man!
Finally we have Sorento. Please don't turn into a wild child like your sisters.
Not to worry. I wouldn't dream of it.
Yeah, the nerd clothes kinda give you away.
Alright, let me guess. The cut of your shirt screams knowledge.
You are correct.
Ha. That makes two knowledge and two pleasure sims from this crop. Sedona's the odd one out, but then she's always been the odd one out.

What's so funny Spirit?
'Spire's gonna be so jealous to see I didn't go gray!
You think she will?
I know she will. I'll bet you.
Bet me what?
Hmmm... I'll bet you my clothes. If I'm wrong, you can change my clothes to whatever you want and I won't complain.
Ooh, you're on. And I just got some new clothes from All About Style too.
I know I said I wanted flashy, but I think that's a bit too much.
How about this? If you meet a guy you really like that doesn't like it, we'll remove it.
Okay.
And I mean really like. One of your more random dates can blow it out their ear.
Got it.
I still don't know why you decided to go Emo McGoth on me.
It's me. Maybe one day you'll understand.
It's emo. I hope one day you'll understand.
You say it in such a derogatory way.



Are you guys free to talk now?
We haven't needed medicines yet to keep up our level of activity, and we won't need any now.
Very nice. Now guys, I need your attention.
And I will always love you.
You always sing so sweet.
Guys, over here?
Oh come on!

Oh hi kids.
Hey Kate, it's me. Could you come over?
He looks nice. Is he your guest, Sedona?
As if!
Look at him! He's such a dork.
Oh that's really nice.
It's the truth.
There's my guest.
I was wondering when you'd meet your counterpart.
You will? That's awesome. Alright, see you then.
Kendall's my guest. And is he ever hot!
Two bolts! Well, you're not just flattering him.
So, how about a date?
Sure!

So Kate, I was wondering if you'd like to be my official girlfriend.
Wha?
You know, like going steady. With me, of course.
Uhhh...
Hmmm, why does she hesitate?
I promise I'll make sure you don't regret it.
*sigh* Oh alright.
Ah, Rondo, you have no idea what you've gotten yourself into.
Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live...
What? Sephia, did you just say that?
Say what? I didn't say anything.
And the roads around here just don't make any sense. It'd be nice if there was someone to plan the streets out.
Not till Free Time.
What?
You won't see it.
I said it'd be cool to be able to plan the streets out.
Not you.
Don't say too much; he can't hear me. Only you can.
Great.
Yeah, it would be great, wouldn't it?
You have no idea, Kendall.
Looks like you'll have to share your pool time with Meadow.
That's not fair. It's my table. I wonder how I can hit her with the stick and call it an accident.
That's not nice.
I stopped being nice a long time ago.
Got that right.
You'd better shower her with attention like that, or she will go off seeking greener pastures.
No way! She's not like that.
So you think...
Who you talking to?
She can't hear me.
Just don't worry about it.
I thought you had a guest.
I'm trying to tone down. Besides, he's still playing pool with little miss perfect.
You sound so bitter for a 14-year-old. I thought you wouldn't get that way for a couple more years.

Well, Sephia is thinking about college, intermittently.
Sorento's definitely thinking about college. In fact, he's working on a scholarship now.
Sedona... let's not even go there.
Oooh, that'd be a great twist!
What about a twist?
I'm writing a novel. Historical fiction, about a woman and man who fall in love. She's the evil ruler's daughter, and he's a revolutionary...
Sounds predictable.
Everybody dies.
I might be interested. Holler when you're done.
Sure.
If I can hear her over you. What's wrong?
That's the last time I lower my standards for a blonde!
I'm assuming you don't like blondes.
Hate them. Thought I'd give this one a chance, and, just... ugh!
Say no more. I got it.
Not only is she insulting, but she talks to herself. Maybe I'd better get out of here.

And to think, one of these four may end up being my heir. Maybe I should tell Amanti to come home after graduation...
Well, I guess we can wrap things up.
Oh no you don't. Although this isn't what I've been trying to tear you off each other for, I do have some questions for you.
What's this?
Oh, I went to see Aspire earlier this afternoon. Despite her insulting me numerous times, we are friends.
Okay, then what's this?
She just grabbed my hands and she had the strangest look her her face. I have no idea why.
Oh, really?
Then can you tell me why this happened?
That... was not my fault.
Typical response.
It's the honest truth! She just grabbed me.
I didn't see you resisting.
She caught me completely by surprise! How was I supposed to?
I'm telling Spirit.
Don't do that!
Why shouldn't I? I think she deserves to know.
Because it was a one-time thing and I don't plan on doing anything like that again!
Well, I'm a forgiving person. And it's not like you've been slobbering on her all week. As you said, it was one time. But don't think I don't have my eye on you. One misstep, and I'm telling your wife.
Got it.
You might want to tell your sister-in-law to thank you. She certainly wouldn't have escaped.

Anyway... I need gen 4 to come along soon. Apparently people have way too much free time on their hands. Grandchildren will definitely keep them busy. But first, who will bring in gen 4? Amanti's in college, so technically, he's still eligible. And I'm still thinking about telling Spirit anyway. After all, one reason her aspiration was switched was so she wouldn't be attracted to the kind of men that would do this to her. And she gets shafted anyway.
...What do you think? About the heir issue, or the love triangle that popped up? A resolution is needed and I have no clue what to do for either.
See you next week...

Odd Pics Out:
She may be evil, but this shot does scream cool.
This was after Johanna died. For the record, she didn't try again later.
Don't know why, but Emo McGoth really likes Amanti, while Amanti wouldn't mind feeding him to a large carnivorous plant with udders. He decided to see if Amanti was ticklish. I guess the answer is no.

The Next Generation (Part 1)

I'm sure you noticed that this is labeled Part 1. Yeah, a whole lot of radically different things happened this week, and I managed to get down to... I'm kinda embarrassed to say. Suffice it, though, that this is a LONG update. So let's get started, huh?







Good afternoon Amanti. Now that's impressive.
Genetics are fascinating. I've been looking over our family tree and noticing things, like how Mother and Aunt Aspire look exactly like Grandmother, and they must carry all of Grandfather's traits as recessive.
Don't remind me.



Well, launching a shuttle may put even more people's lives in danger. Let's nuke it.
Awesome.

Now that's leadership in action.
Of course. Never mind that I gave you the answer.



Alright! I've been waiting for this. Now we can figure out how much of a clone to Amanti you're gonna end up.
I'm not Amanti's clone.
Well, you're the same in personality, and there's a negligible difference in looks. If you end up a Knowledge sim, I'll be calling you a clone. But hey, there's only a 17% chance that I'll be right. The odds are in your favor.
What's that noise?
I don't know. Let's look.
I'm finally coming to join you, Galant.
Oh you're kidding me! Today? Why is it always when I get the first birthday pop-up?
Good evening everyone. I've returned, and I think it's obvious who I'm here for.
Well, since you're in the bathroom and there's only one other person here, I think we can take a safe guess it's Johanna.
You're rather feisty today.
When am I not?
I particularly remember you yelling at me to go away when your last founder passed.
Well, that was a really sad moment for me.
Can we get back to me here?
Oh, sure.
Don't go, Gramma.
I'm sorry, little one, but I have to. Your granddad misses me.
But we don't want you to go!
One day you will understand. Until then, be good and listen to your parents. And don't hog all your father's time.
*snuffle* Okay.
You're being quite the trooper, not crying and all.
I have to be strong for everybody else. Besides, Amanti wouldn't cry. He would call it "a fascinating experience." Where is he, anyway?
Well, the trips have your mother for support. She's not crying. Granted, I don't know where she is either. You do a good impression of Amanti.
As for where he is, I don't think you want to know.
Amanti? Your grandmother's dying in the bathroom as we speak.
I know. She told me she'd probably go today, and not to cry, since someone had to keep from blubbering for the kids' sake.
Actually, I think they have their father for that.
What's going on? Oh no...
Unfortunately, yes. Your mother picked one of the most inconvenient times to die. At least the timing wasn't as bad as Brooklyn and Remington Gray, right before a birthday and in the middle of a headmaster visit.
Can we please get back to me?
Geez, Johanna, I didn't realize you were so eager to die.
I'm eager to get to my husband.
Oh, fine.
See ya, Johanna. It's okay that you can no longer answer me. Say hi to Galant for me though.

*sob*
It's okay to cry Rondo. Crying will help you feel better.
Hi Miss Fini. What's going on?
You didn't get the memo, did you?
What?
Your grandmother just died. I'm so sorry Sedona.

Johanna Morris Green died at 76 days old, top of influence. She goes to join her husband, Galant Green, who died 14 years before. She leaves behind two daughters, Spirit (48) and Aspire (37) Green, a son-in-law, Allen Bowen Green (48), and five grandchildren: Amanti (17), Rondo (12), and triplets Sephia, Sedona and Sorento (8).

Oh no! It's all my fault!
What do you mean, Sedona?
I was looking at Granny's cell phone, and I said it was cool, and she gave it to me, and she said she thought I could use it, but she said before that, that she thought she'd die without her phone! It's my fault! I killed her!
That's nonsense, Sedona. The dying without the phone thing is a figure of speech. She died because it was her time, not because she gave you her phone.
Isn't this your job?
I don't know what to do. Or what to say. When dad died, it was me and mom. Amanti was too little to understand, and Allen, though he couldn't help me, did take Amanti off my hands so I could mourn properly. Now we have five children, three of whom don't understand what's going on.
Obviously, since Sedona thinks she's responsible for this.
This is a total bummer.
You don't say. Well, you are free to stay as long as you like, though I personally wouldn't stay any longer.
*cry*
It's alright Rondo, don't cry.
You'll always have me!
*sniffle* Thanks Sephia.
Aww, that's sweet. These two are so adorable. And they look like they could be the multiple birth.

I guess it's time to clear out the crowd in the bathroom. Sedona, you'll have to move to let everyone out.
*cry* I'm sorry Granny. I didn't mean to do it.
Sedona, listen. It's not your fault.
I know you're just saying that so I won't cry.
Actually, when you get to know me, you'll find I'm brutally honest. There's no reason for me to lie in this case. Trust me, Johanna didn't die because you have her phone.
Amanti, can you help me? The school won't accept mom dying as an excuse for their homework to be undone.
Alright.

*bawl*
I'm so sorry Amanti! It was selfish of me to ask for your help. You go on to bed, I'll manage.
Alright. I apologize Mother.
Nonsense. You just go.

Mom, I need you more now than ever!
Remember she said, you have to be strong for the kids?
But she was alive then!
I know it was easier then, but that only makes what she said even more relevant now. Besides, Allen's here to help.

And that's all.
Really? That was easy.
Now let's get you a drink of water and then get you to bed. We don't want you dehydrated in the morning.
And he helps a lot.
Sedona?
*cry*
Sedona? It's time for your homework.
Maybe we should put it off about ten minutes or so.
Hey, you managed to teach Sorento, right?
Yep, now I need to go to the bathroom!

I don't wanna do homework!
I don't care what you do and do not want to do. You are doing your homework now.
You're mean! You don't care about Granny!
She was my friend too, but she would want you to do well in school. We're doing homework and that's final.
You're doing well.
*grumble*
And now you're done and you can do whatever you want.
*stomps away*
You're welcome.
She sure is mad, isn't she?
She'll get over it.
Are you okay Sedona?
No. Daddy doesn't care that Granny died; he just wants me to do stupid homework.
You sure you're not just sulking?
What's that?
Just being mad to be mad.
No!
Okay then.



Rondo, what are you doing up? It's 3 in the morning!
I had a dream about Grandma and the gravestone, and I want to see if it will really move like it did in my dream.
I really don't think that's a good idea. Aren't you afraid of ghosts?
No... well, maybe a little bit, but it's Grandma! She won't be scary.
Actually, I'm not so sure about that.
I want Grandma back!
For your sakes, I kinda want her back too, but no can do. The only way to do that is with a Resurrect-o-Nomitron, and we don't have one of those.
A wha?
A Bone Phone. You want more information, look it up.

And what are you two doing up?
Couldn't sleep. And I felt nostalgic. I always used to watch Mom play. I never played her, but I was fascinated. So I thought I'd try my hand at it.
And Amanti?
Same. However, I am studying mechanical skill.
Later that morning:
Mom, can you have best friends even after you die?
Um, I'm sure you can.
Yay! Then I'm still friends with Grandma!
Aww...
Um Spirit, you are going to work, right?
Oh no, I'm late!



Welcome home. So who's Emo McGoth behind you?
His name is Jared Holland, I believe. It does not really matter. I think he heard my grandmother had died and decided to follow me home, hoping to see a ghost.
Either that or he heard you had sisters. I know he's a Downtownie and I think he's a Pleasure Sim.
Well, he would be quite perverted to want to date a nine-year-old.
That little fact might have been lost in translation.
And you are?
I am finding employment.
But you don't need a job. Your parents are fabulously wealthy.
That does not mean I simply want to sit in the house doing nothing. I need something to break the monotony; therefore I am applying for a job.
Well, carry on then. Although if I was that rich and wanted to break the monotony, I'd buy a dog. Oh yeah, you all don't have dogs yet. Not until Pets.
Hi Sedona.
Hi.
How was school?
Ok.
Are you going to keep giving me one-word answers?
Probably.
Point taken.
Hi Sephia.
Hi!
How was school?
It was pretty good. I even met this boy in class who's really cool. His name's Aspen Swain.
So the family has finally met one of my other playables.
Hello Sorento.
Hi Miss Fini.
How was school?
Good. Everybody was really nice, and our teacher was impressed that we did our homework anyway. And on top of that, I met a girl in class that's really nice. Her name's Danielle.
That's good. Nobody would guess you had such good days from Sourpuss Sedona.
Wow Spirit! You had a good day too!
I was approached by Erik Swain. He told me what he did and asked me to join him, and I accepted. Apparently that's where the $5000 for "special projects" go: paying salaries to people like us!
(A/N: I play one college household per Legacy generation. With Generation 2 it was Erik Swain, the first one in the Sim State Student Bin. He makes cute kids, imho.)
Mommy!
Hi sweetie. How was school?
It was ok.
You feeling better?
A little.
That's good. Time heals all wounds. Have you done your homework yet?
Not yet.
Well, you'll want to do it soon, before you get too tired.
Ok, mommy.
So she can be nice to you, but not to me?
You said I sulk.
Well, it's true.
And my mom is a doctor, and she has a machine she can pull hamburgers out of!
That's funny.
It's the truth. If you ever come to my house, I'll show you.
These two get along very well. *makes a note*
Sliiide baby, 1, 2...
These two as well. *makes another note*



Hello Mr. Ryan.
Well, I am mighty pleased that you dun called me up ag'in to come here.
He has younger siblings and one wants in really bad.
We would like for our younger siblings to attend SimCity Academy with us.
Well, that can do.
Hmmm, Amanti told me to dress up and there's a big statue in the hallway that I didn't buy. Must be a headmaster visit.
Correct. And this time you'll get to meet him since you're not running after three toddlers.



Yay! And no death to ruin it! Although Sephia might be miffed to know that for all her work, she still won't get to go to school with Rondo, since as soon as she gets into private elementary school, he's going to private high. Oh well. Who wants a party?
Shhh! I can't concentrate.
Oh, sorry.



I'm sorry I couldn't eat with you last time, Mr. Ryan, but the last time you came, these three were toddlers, and I was caring for them at the time. I'm Spirit Green. I believe you met Allen and my mother the last time you were here.
I shor did, little lady. Where is your mother, if'n ya don't mind my askin'?
Unfortunately, she died a couple of years ago.
Now that's mighty sad.
It's alright though. She lives on through us.
Once again, Mr. Green, I am very impressed by your family. You can tell your girls and your little boy that they can start tomorrow mornin'.
Thank you very much, Mr. Ryan.
While one of the candidates and the inviter are in the next room studying. I'm not sure what to think about you two.
Wouldn't the headmaster be more impressed by my intellect than my eating habits?
Your statement has sound logic, Sorento. However, this headmaster is... different. Have no fear. I have seen that he is the exception, not the rule.

Speaking of logic, since no one's interested in a party, it would be logical just to grow Rondo up now, while I'm thinking about it.
Hey everybody, come look! I'm gonna be a teen!
The moment of truth is now. Will he, or will he not, be a complete clone?
I already said, I'm not a clone!
And some sparkles and confetti later, we have a teenager! I must say that your choice of formal wear is... uh, interesting. But we'll probably never see it again, so go on and give me a smile.
Like this?
Just like that. That's what you were supposed to do, Amanti.
Whatever.
And to prove that I'm not a clone of my brother, I've decided that I want the opposite life of Amanti's.
Oh?
He wants to learn, and I want to party!
Alright, a pleasure sim it is. You'd be interested to know that your mother had the very same ideas about her life outlook as a teen. And then your aunt decided she wanted nothing but boys and your mom felt responsible, so she completely turned around.
Really Mom?
Really.
The 50 dream dates too?
Cut from the very same cloth.
Cool!
And we get to go to school together tomorrow!
Actually dudette, I'll be going to high school tomorrow. You're still in elementary.
No fair!



I find it rather telling that when I don't bother to try to bring the headstones with me, then the lot runs smoothly. It installed it way earlier than I wanted to, but oh well. Welcome everyone to the world of self-employment and inventoried food, better known as Open For Business!
And all they care about is the fact that they can pillow fight now that they're on the same schedule.

That was unusually nice of you, Amanti.
I was doing the community a favor and helping to teach my classmates how not to burn down their homes.
I'm sure it wasn't that bad.
You weren't there. It WAS that bad.
Rondo, what happened to your face?
That's kinda harsh, dudette.
No, I'm serious. Your face looks different than it did last night.
Don't know why, dudette. Nothing's happened 'tween then and now.
Strange. Your cheekbones look more sunken, or something. And I'm Miss Fini, not "dudette."
Got it.
Doubt it.
Your personality hasn't changed any, despite the surprise aspiration. You're still a nerd.
I accept that label with pride, cause that means I'm smart.

Hi Sephia. Looks like you had a good day, despite Rondo being in high school already.
Yeah, Aspen said he could come home with us again today!
I think you two are trying to tell me something even you two don't know. At least not yet. But please, carry on.
Hello Sedona.
Hi.
Still with the one-word answers?
Yep.
Okay then.



Rondo, who's your friend?
Hahahahahaha! Stop, Kate, that tickles!
*eye bug* THAT'S Kate? Kate Peterson?!
That's Kate, alright.
Well, she kept her plaits. And you seem quite smitten Rondo.
Huh? Oh. Uh-huh.
Looks like he has lost the capacity for coherent speech. Kate seems to still wield the power of voodoo over the Green boys.
Rondo, don't you think you're moving a little too fast?
Uh-uh.
Oh boy, we have a hormonal teenager on the loose.
Hello son, who's your friend?
I think the better question is, who's your girlfriend?
Well, I didn't say all that...
He speaks!



I am so sorry that I missed Mom's funeral, I flew to Brazil that very day to film a stupid movie!
It's alright, Aspire. We're gonna be okay. You're welcome to stay around.



Now that you're inside, watch yourselves. I don't want the kids to see more than they're ready to.
That works.
Hi kid. What's with the staring?
You're holding my brother's attention. You have to die.
Rondo? Your kid sister's creeping me out.
Stop messing with her, dudette. She sounds like she's talking you seriously.
I am serious.
You're funny.
She's scary.
Don't worry about her, Kate.




I don't know if I'm comfortable with you two smacking lips in front of your 11-year-old sisters.
I KNOW I'm not comfortable with THAT in front of them! Remove your lips from, her shirt? Whatever! Just back up! "Thinking about college" my foot.
Sephia, why's Rondo kissing that girl?
Because she's drugged him with something and is now controlling his mind. She must die.
Oh, ok.
Sephia, are you okay?
Very good question Aspen. We'll find out the answer very soon. Stay tuned for part 2!

The Power of Three

Back to the house!

And then Charlie and his friends went to Magic Mountain to find the princess and the cotton candy...
Did you read that one all the way through, Spirit? If I remember correctly, that had a pretty gruesome ending.
*skips ahead* Oh dear... so they found the princess and she gave them cotton candy and they all lived happily ever after.
Good save.
My little boy can't hear about what really happened to Charlie.
Maybe you should preview books before you buy them.



Hi Amanti. Congratulations on winning the spelling bee.
It was easy. I'm not feeling challenged enough. I should go to an different school.
Let's see how you feel after you become a teen.
I'm telling you now, I'm not going to feel differently.
We'll just see about that. Even I can't predict the future.



Welcome home Allen. I really like the uniform, but the beret is yucky.
Well, it's part of the uniform, so it stays.
Yay! The last thing I need is a baby and a toddler at the same time. At least Rondo has been a good one.



AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!
That's what I was waiting to hear.
This gets harder every time!
Maybe you'd like to go to another room, Amanti?
No way! I mean, this is a fascinating event that I will never experience. Therefore, I will observe.
I caught that. So you do have the ability to speak normally. And I wouldn't be so sure about never experiencing childbirth...
Allen help me!
I don't know what to do!
Men are so useless.
I don't see you doing anything.
The best way for me to help is to stand back.
Twins? Nooooooo! Not now!

Whoa, it's getting dark. Dang, forgot to turn on the lights.

Allen, could you hold this one? I feel funny.
That's cause you're having another one.
Oh no! We don't have room for another one!
Tell that to the baby.
Don't be ridiculous.
You said it.
Whoa!
Well, it's not that bad. Okay, let's shed some light on this situation. Wait, where is my buy mode?
Mom, hold this one, I still feel funny.
Oh you're kidding me!
I'm the one still having babies!
I can't believe it; I have triplets!
*prays it's not quadruplets* ...Oh thank goodness, buy mode's back. I totally forgot I had the trips and quads hack installed.

Now to name the little buggers.
That's not nice!
They're triplets. I'm thinking ahead about three hours, when they'll all be crying at the same time for food.

Okay, that's it. No more babies for you.
Oh that's alright. I'm sure Allen is okay with five, right?
Definitely.
Right answer. Even if he wasn't, that would be tough luck on him. NOW let's shed some light on the situation. Would you like to introduce them, Spirit?
I'd love to!

Allen's holding the oldest one, Sephia. She looks just like him, except she has my eyes.
Mom's holding the middle one, Sedona. She looks more like me and Mom, except she has her father's eyes.
And this is the youngest, Sorento. Looks like Sephia, but with my skin.
Welcome Sephia, Sedona and Sorento Green!



You took off rather early for being so fascinated.
I saw the most important part, and I couldn't see anything after the first one was born.
If you heard all that, you should know that the first one has a name: Sephia.
Whatever.



What did I say about them all needing a bottle?



Now that you have little sisters, you need to be very responsible, so they will know what a real man is supposed to act like.
Like he isn't already.
Can we replace the siblings with fish? I would like very much to study fish.
We can't replace your younger siblings with fish!



I must say that fish would take up considerably less space.
I'm not trading my babies for fish! What is wrong with you people?

Fortunately, babies don't need much care, and everyone had vacation time, so things settled down quickly. Allen, still very confused by his first son, takes solace in the fact that his second son doesn't give him superior looks.
While the aforementioned first son uses up much of his time cleaning up after everyone else, since he can't stand to wait for the maid.



Time for Rondo to become a child. Then he can move into Amanti's room and not have to hear the babies.
Who decided that I will be sharing my room?
I did. The babies need their own room.
This would not be a problem if they were traded for fish.
For the last time, Amanti, I'm not trading them for fish!
Aunt Aspire, what do I do? The last thing I want is to share my room.
I guess that's the side effect of having a large family. It was just your mom and me as kids, so we each had our own room, but I don't think I'm supposed to tell you anything other than keep up your grades so you can go to college. Come here. Don't tell your parents I said this, but if you clash with them too much, you can always come stay with me.
What do you mean?
You'll know if the time comes.
I don't know if I like that idea.
I've got to look out for my nephew. If he turns out like me, Spirit's gonna have a cow. So I'll spare them both and take him in. I have room.
But what if he just has a fight with one of them and decides to leave?
Amanti's smart. He'll know what I'll let him move in for.
Happy birthday dear Rondo, happy birthday to you!






You only look slightly different than Amanti. A slightly wider nose, but that's it.
Is that bad?
Not really... I was just thinking you'd look slightly different.

You two seem to get along well.
Rondo doesn't look down on Spirit and I the way Amanti obviously does. I think I wold have been him if I hadn't been sent to military school.
So that's why you like being in there.
It grows on you.
Aspire! Wow. Interesting hair.
I'll take that as a compliment.
You really should come over more than just on the kids' birthdays.
Actually, I think her visitation schedule is fine the way it is.
Well, it's still on the good side.



Good morning.
A good morning indeed.
And isn't it so cool that Grandpa met Grandma using a crystal ball?
It certainly is interesting.
I want to meet people using a crystal ball.
I can set that up, but we'll have to wait till you're a teen.
And Amanti was telling me all about how cool fish are, and that... Mom? Are you listening to me? Mom?
I'm afraid that I'm alienating the boys.
It's alright. They understand that taking care of babies is a lot of work.
Are you sure?
Of course.



Congrats Amanti.
I have become bored with school.
I told you, we'll talk when you become a teen.
I told you Miss Fini, I will be of the same opinion as a teen.
How was your first day?
I'm not as smart as Amanti yet.
Well, you can't go to the top of the class in a day. Even Amanti didn't do that.

So, maybe this kid will, like, notice me if I stand here and look pretty.
Doubt it. Amanti's a talking machine once he starts. Besides, you want to look elsewhere. Chances are, you won't be marrying in.
I just want to grow up and have kids. Is that so wrong?
No, but sorry, I'm sticking to NPCs. And you're a townie. You have a chance with a spare. Oh yeah, she can't hear me. I feel stupid.



Grandma, can you help me with my homework? I don't get it.
No problem. This sure brings back memories.
Thanks Grandma. I got it now.
You sure?
Uh-huh.
You never asked about certainty before.
I don't know. I just felt like I should ask.



Well, I can't ask the babies about impending birthdays.
Amanti! You grow to teen and hopefully figure out what you want to do with your life. How do you feel?
I feel like a contestant on a game show. Can you please back up a foot or two?
*sigh* You really suck the magic out of things, you know that?

When I grow to a teen, I will be going to college, because there are too many people in this house. Or I will move to Au--Australia! There is very interesting weather there.
You almost let your almost-secret out. While you decide whether you will need to move to Australia, I'm going to check on the trips. You're not the only one with a birthday today.


First Sephia. She's rather cute.

Next Sedona. She looks just like her mother and aunt did as toddlers.

Finally Sorento. He looks exactly as his older brothers did.

And now we move to Amanti.
I am ready.
Good thing, because if you weren't, you'd owe me $30. Cakes aren't cheap.
I wonder if they're all amazed at her party-throwing ability or waiting to see if she'll keel over.
Make a wish, Amanti.
Alright, I will go along with the silly tradition.
Thank you. *eye roll*
I already know what I want to do in life.
Hold that thought until after you age up.
How did Grandmother get over here that quickly?
You have more important things to worry about.

Where did the lights come from?
More important things to worry about.
Why am I levitating?
More important things to worry about.
Wow!
...Interesting outfit, Amanti. *snicker*
Oh who cares about the outfit? I have reached the teenage years!
The teenage girls will.
Teenage girls are silly.
Oh that's a real nice face. Couldn't you at least smile?
I am exhausted.
Ugh.
They all got a good party. No thanks to the oldest.
Congratulations Spirit. You have shown that you can throw parties to rival your mother's.
Oh, I'm just a novice. I have a lot to learn before I can even match hers.
Well, the party score says you're there.



Why not have the skilling start immediately? That already puts Sorento ahead of his sisters.



I send you to get decent clothing and you're looking at females.
Do not try to sound self-righteous. You told me to tell you whether I thought she was attractive.
There's these things called creative secrets. That means you keep your mouth shut.
Not if it makes me look any worse. Now may I talk to her?
Go right ahead.
You look familiar. Are you a spare?
What are you talking about?
You know, a spare heir.
We haven't gotten to that conversation yet. Just tell her that you don't know yet.
We will be discussing this when I get home from school.
Fine, fine.



And that puts Sorento way ahead of his sisters. If I didn't know better, I'd call favoritism.



Okay, you want to know about heirs and spares? Here it is.
Let me finish this conversation. He will? That would be fine. I look forward to meeting him then.
Who was that?
I was arranging a meeting with the headmaster.
The headmaster? We aren't ready to meet the headmaster! And actually, with those bent glasses, neither are you.
Strange. I'd have expected those glasses to bend on your mother, but not you. I guess you two share eye structure.



Gramma!
She can say Grandma!
Ehh, close enough.
Geez what is it with the boy learning everything before the girls?
He just has more energy. So he's ready to learn quicker than them.



Hello sir. My name is Amanti Green, and I, on behalf of my family, welcome you to our home.
Hi-dey ho young man! The name is BJ Ryan. Very pleased to be here.
Okaaaay. Would you like a tour of the house?
Sounds great. Looks good from the outside, but you can never tell. Gotta see the homestead from the inside to really tell.
Okay, he's weird.
And yet you're still trying to get in.
I'm assuming that he's the exception, not the rule.
Who is this girl blocking my path?
That would be Jessica Barrett. Friend of your mother. Downtownie. Romance sim, if I remember correctly. Guess she got excited when she heard there was a teenage boy living here.
I'm not interested.
Aww, why not? She's even trying to guess your favorite subjects. *giggle*
Wow, you guys got a high-falutin' plasma TV and everything!
Uh...
Just nod and go on to the next room.
We also have many more things that are in other parts of the house that couldn't be shown because of the time limits, right Rondo?
What you talking about, Amanti?
Sorry Amanti, you're on your own trying to impress him more than he is. Besides, something tells me he's not even listening to you anymore.
Look, my grandson has his heart set on going to this school of yours. If he was rejected, I fear he may never recover.
Oh that's no problem, little lady. This family is more than worthy to have children in our school. If you wouldn't mind following me to the car to get the uniforms...



And finally the girls are getting some decent attention.



Where did you just come from? It's midnight!
I went out with Meadow.
Did you get permission? You two are getting really close.
If that is what you want to consider it, you are free to make that assumption. And yes, Grandmother gave me permission to go.
She's knocked out, so I can't check. Oh well, you're too much of a nerd to put your academics in serious danger.



Sedona is almost done,
and so is Sephia. I keep missing her doodads.



And of course I had to get pics of the boys in their private school uniforms. Amanti's excited, but decided he should hold in the girly squealing.
That is not true!
And Rondo still doesn't see what the big fuss was about. Don't worry, since you and Amanti are freaks of nature that had fun at public school, you'll like private school even more.
Really?
Really.



That takes care of Sedona,
and that's it for Sephia.



And apparently more or less just in time.



15 down! 5 more to go!
I'm...uh...impressed.
Those with good memories, or those who have "And Baby Makes...Six?" up in another tab, will recall that Aspire has the lifetime want of 20 simultaneous lovers. Yes, she's up to 15. But she's running out of guys... and that's all I will say on the subject. At least this week.



Oh, it appears that the trash compactor is broken. I will repair it.
I think you should call a repairman. I heard those things can kill.
Oooh, the big scary piece of machinery.
Aaaaaaaahhh!
Oh my God!
Oh no! Amanti! Don't die!
The trash compactor is not mocked.
Don't take away my firstborn! I'll try to spend time with him, I promise!
That's not exactly a promise you're supposed to make on the brink of death, Allen.
Uh... do you have any better ideas?
Is he alright?
I am fine, Father. I will meet you at the obstacle course in 45 minutes.
So now you want to electrocute yourself too?
While I appreciate Amanti's initiative, he didn't know what he was doing. I, on the other hand, having had to know how to fix nearly everything in my career, do.
Apparently he did. However, it took longer than 45 minutes, or at least he spent more than 45 minutes with his head buried in the compactor.

Well, it looks like your father couldn't make it.
I have muscles!
Well, I'll take your word for it. So you don't care that your dad's not here?
Do you not notice the gravity of this situation? I have, what do they call it? Washboard abs!
I guess not.
Besides, it is enough body skill for a scholarship. Grandmother likes to hear about scholarships I earn, and Mother says it is important to keep Grandmother happy, since Mother says she does not know how much longer Grandmother will live.
Isn't that nice and morbid.






And seriously, the minute she grew up, Sephia started playing cops and robbers with Rondo. It was adorable.



And that takes care of the birthdays.

Did no one notice that they all aged in midair?
Whatever are you talking about, Amanti?
You know exactly what I am talking about! They all aged about three feet off the floor, like they were witches or something else occult!
That's silly Amanti. Witches don't come till Apartment Life.
What is Apartment Life? Wait a minute, you are changing the subject!
I didn't realize that messing with him would be so much fun.

I had to include this pic of the middle triplet, Sedona, because she looks almost just like her mother did at that age. To see what I'm talking about, browse through the entry "Aspire to Greatness."
Awesome. I'm happy because birthday parties are much harder to handle when there are more than two birthdays in the same party.



Good morning triplets. Maybe one day, when I'm done townifying my hair, you'll grow into a hairstyle I like. Until then, to the mirror!




Unlike Amanti, who took me a little time to grasp, and Rondo, who I still don't quite get, the triplets started showing me their personality quirks immediately.
Sorento idolizes his father, follows him around, and tries to emulate him in every way he can. Except the hair, which i insist stays the way it is. I don't need more than two curly-haired brunettes in the house.
Sedona is a very laid back girl, preferring to pillow fight and play computer games than anything else.
Sephia is my little clingy stalker. Only kidding. Kinda. She won't let anyone else, and I mean anyone else, talk to him. She insists on completely dominating his time. That helped me figure out one thing about Rondo though. He's appropriately creeped out by it.
But he did manage to tear away from her and peel Sorento off his father long enough to get some quality time.



Johanna, they've barely made the limit for heavily watered down anime. They're definitely not old enough to watch The Strangerhood.
They're back there discussing the social implications of stereotypical characters, or some such over-my-head topic.
I like birds, aren't they pretty?
Okay, maybe just one's not mature enough for this show.
And I'll end this update with a picture of the girls heading off to public school. Sephia was angry that she couldn't go to school with Rondo, but now that Spirit told her that with an A+, she can earn her way in, she's ready to raise her grades as quickly as she can. She's a very determined child.

Sorry about the length. This is my longest update for this family, but yeah, triplets will do that to you. I had a lot more great pics, but that would've necessitated a two-parter, and I'm really trying not to have any of those.
See you next week!

Odd Pic Out:
From now on, this pic will be used to explain my love for Remington Harris. It's so cute!