Staying Alive: Take 5 - A Story about A Grim

[sdhoey]

hmmm??? Is this the Grim tales or the Landgrabb tales? 

[Ricalynn]

@sdhoey Sometimes the Landgraabs become Grims... and we allow it because Angelica says so. 

Chapter 59: Graduation and Snow Shenanigans

Lulu: Who's that?
Ichiro: That's Ashwin.
Lulu: No. Ashy is a baby.
Ichiro: Not anymore. He's a big boy like you are.
Lulu: -giggles- I'm not a boy.
Ichiro: -chuckles- I suppose not. C'mon. Bedtime for both of you.


Artie: Where are the others?
Alena: It's a little on the cold side so the boys are teaching the kids cards in Darby's.


Artie: That's smart.
Alena: Duh. It was my idea.


Artie: Brynlee I didn't know you were graduating today.
Brynlee: You never really asked did you?
Artie: Hey hey. Not trying to be offensive. Is it just us?
Brynlee: No idea. Alright, let's go. It's cold.


Ashwin: No more.
Adrien: But buddy, you need to learn.
Ashwin: NO!
Ichiro: Definitely a Grim.
Adrien: Yea. I guess he is.


Everyone who suddenly showed up for graduation: Woohoo.
But do you see what I see?


Voice: So.. nice shoes.
Artie: Jealous of how good I look?
Voice: Um.
Artie: I know. And they're doing great things for my back.
Voice: Okay. Sure. What now?
Artie: I promised the kids after Ashwin grew up we'd go on a trip. So it's time for everyone to get changed. -raises his voice- We're leaving in 5 minutes!


Magnus who suddenly appeared: Oh my goodness. Is that?
Alena: Uncle Mags!
Ichiro: Dad?


Magnus: Did you get my gift?
Lulu: Yes! 
Magnus: And who is your friend?
Lulu: My baby Ashy.
Ashwin: No. Not baby.
Lulu: My fwend.
Magnus: I see that and Ashwin is a Grim?
Ashwin: Yes.


Alena: Um. Darling. Stay at work, Come see us when you're done.


Magnus: But I don't understand. I thought things were going well.
Ichiro: They are. We're just having to improvise with the loss of our guides.
Magnus: I'll see what I can do. Let me go visit with the littles a little longer.


Alena: Okay little one. Just hold on and I've got you okay?
Ashwin: Okay. Go fast?
Alena: Oh yes.




Lulu: Go go.
Ichiro: We're going!
Lulu: Wanna win!


Ashwin: Got you!
Lulu: -giggles-


Lulu: No I got you!

As the kids grew tired, they were sent home to be with their 'grandfather' and the boys went for trips to further their Extreme sports aspirations and both were visited by friends from Magnus to give them a little advice.





But what advice? Well, I certainly don't know...

[Granny Lawlor]

Loving the toddler interactions!

[oshizu]

What a huge coincidence that Brynlee graduated on the same day as Artie. 
Of course Artie never asked. (1) There's no social for that (When are you graduating? lol and (2) more to the point, who would ever have suspected? Not me.

Wow, Ashwin the Tot looks so much like Adrien--his skin, his eyes, his ears, his hair color.
How funny that Adrien called Alena from work to challenge her to a duel. Weird.

In the next shot, Magnus doesn't look like a ghost at all. I mean, he looks so solid! Was that just a momentary thing?
The toddler hugs were to die for!

[Ricalynn]

In the next shot, Magnus doesn't look like a ghost at all. I mean, he looks so solid! Was that just a momentary thing?

I think it was because the snow was behind him so it made him look more solid.

Chapter 60: Gen Three Littles

Ashwin: *splashes*
Alena: Hey. Red man likes it when we keep the water in the tub.
Ashwin: So?
Alena: So.. keep most of it in the tub. 
Ashwin: -pout-
Alena: Hey where'd ducky go?
Ashwin: -pulls Ducky from the water- Duck came back!


Lulu: Oh no! Here come bats!
Ichiro: Bats? We can avoid bats.
Lulu: No the Boss kind!
Alena: -snickers- Lulu must have found Dad's bat downstairs.
Lulu: It's a bad bat.
Ichiro: That's true. Evasive Maneuvers!


Voice: Whatcha looking for?
Artie: Thought I saw something by the gate.
Voice: It's hard to see in this blizzard.
Artie: I know that but still. I thought I saw something.
Voice: I doubt it. You're the only one out here.
Artie: Okay Okay.


Artie: Where'd she go?
Voice: Who?
Artie: Lulu.
Lulu: -giggles-
Artie: I hear her.. but where did she go?
Lulu: I'm right here!
Artie: Oh! Hey is that sparkles outside.


Apparently, the mail carrier had to throw our mail because the fireflies wouldn't let her get any closer.


I had to ask a friend what this was. It sounded awesome but I couldn't figure out if it would be bad for the dynasty.   14 hours after he left, Adrien came back and sadly didn't win.  But maybe someone eventually will!


Ashwin: And the girl skipped through the woods singing her way to gramma's house but she was stopped by a big bad wolf.. who wanted to sell her candy from his jacket.
This image gave me a heart attack because I thought the game had snuck in imaginary dolls...


Voice: Whatcha reading?
Lulu: A spell book.
Voice: Excuse me.. what?
Lulu: I'm playing this is a spell book like the one Daddy reads.
Voice: Ohhh


Artie: Brynlee I know that with the passing of Yuusuke that you became the leader of the Garden Gnomes.. and I was wondering.
Brynlee: Yes?
Artie: Hey you know I run a house club right? And we're all really happy and while I like being a gnome too..I can't help but feel like.
Brynlee: Uh-huh.


Artie: So you see I think I'd be a great leader for the gnomes.
Brynlee: I suppose that is true. Alright, you can have the crown.
Artie: That wasn't so hard was it?
Brynlee: Don't push it.
Artie: Can I ask you something else?


Brynlee: Now what?
Artie: Well.. you see. I was wondering if you'd be upset that we invited Racheal over. I want to meet her.
Brynless: Excuse me?
Artie: Your daughter. The child of Yuusuke. My old friend who passed away was her father. I'd like to meet her and spend time with her because he can't.
Brynlee: O...kay.


Voice: Oh no. Don't cry. It's not that scary and I promise someone will come grab you in a second.


Voice: Ohh.. please.. not that.. I can't take the noise.


Artie: Hi Racheal. I'm Artie and I was a friend of your dad's. I know it's sad he's gone now but I think we're going to be best friends. Okay?


It's unorthodox but somehow Artie got this angelic child to actually let him hug her and comfort her.


Racheal: No.
Artie: We're not arguing. I don't want you to get hungry and taken away.
Racheal: No.
Artie: How about peas?
Racheal: No.
Artie: -sighs- I'll give you candy if you eat.
Racheal: Maybe.


Artie: Yep. There you go, kid. That's what you do after you eat.
Voice: Why are you teaching her how to potty?
Artie: Because I don't want her to age up bad. Plus... I have a plan.
Voice: What plan?
Artie: This is about me.. not you.
Racheal: No.
Artie: Yes. No.

[oshizu]

 Since Artie has to ask Brynlee for the Garden Gnomes crown, I'm assuming she is not living with the Grims, right?
Is this the point when Racheal moves in with the Grims?

Oooooh, Artie has some devious plan up his sleeve.
But naturally he should raise Racheal himself because he's a Super Parent.

Ashwin & Lulu are so darn cute.  Looking forward to Racheal's makeover a la Rica.

[Ricalynn]

Whee I can't believe it's been so long since I posted. Then again it's been a long week at work and I've been a little under the weather on top of the end of softball season for my niece. I'm a very supportive Auntie and we had a tournament last weekend where I almost lost my voice. It's just how it goes.  With things ending there until the spring, it's time to remember the other things I enjoy. I hit my 300 book reading goal of the year already and now I can turn towards more fun endeavors.  That being said, it's hard to get into the Sims frame of mind because something happened that I'm just not happy about. But as a HoF file, that means I have to just keep going and move on.  No matter how hard it sucks.

I hope this isn't too off since I feel out of touch a bit. Thank you for reading everyone.

@oshizu No Brynlee doesn't live with the Grims and she should be aging up to elder any day now where we are in the file. It's very sad. Racheal was the only one of Yuusuuke's brood to actually get a vibrant skin tone so I've naturally got my eyes on her now.

Chapter 61: Getting the Gold & The Grades

Here's a heart warming image that we all needed of Artie and Ashwin. They bonded while the rest of the adults in the house did a thing.


As usual, Adrien was the first to finish an aspiration when I thought he'd be last.


The couple that slays together...?

Completes aspirations together.

And how does this generation decide to celebrate?


With a keg party!
Alena: Wow Itchy.. packing the pounds aren't you?
Ichiro: -mumbled- Higher!


Alena: Whoops
Ichiro: Ow... Dude.
Alena: You okay?


Ichiro: Oh man... I can't believe you dropped me.
Alena: I can't believe you thought I could hold you up.
Both chuckle.
Ichiro: I did it though.
Alena: Hey! We did. This isn't the mountain. You wouldn't have gotten any of that air without me.
Kamea: Guys... it's time.
Ichiro: It's time. And we got the gold. Whooo!


Kamea: Here you go, little coconut.
Lulu: Yay cake!
Kamea: Make a wish.


Lulu: -bouncing and dancing- I can do it I can do it I can do it... GO


Voice: Well.. how does it feel?
Lulu: This is great! Now I can boss the babies a little bit more because I'm bigger!
Voice: No... I don't think that's what you should do.
Lulu: to the mirror!


Adrien is off trying one of the toys no one else touches to max out his fitness.


While baby Ashwin does the same with his motor skill by having the ball pit all to himself downstairs.


Ashwin: Wheee!
Alena: I did it, baby!
Ashwin: Did what, mama?
Alena: I finished school!
Ashwin: Yay. More!




Ichiro had forgetful syndrome this week. He'd randomly walk up the stairs and forget he was going to school. I can see how it affected his grades. You'd think in this house "Red or Not" would be the easy course.






And since I forgot to share...


Adrien: How about we get cleaned up today big man?
Ashwin: Why?
Adrien: It's mommy's big day!
Ashwin: Oh yea!

[oshizu]

Haha, the Grim dynasty has gradually transformed into a household of brainiacs, lol!
I'm so impressed, Watcher, that all three sims graduated with honors from distinguished degree programs.  go, y'all!
And, wow, Alena and Ichiro are still young adults!

Also, Ashwin and his huge eyes and pointy ears. He is such the mini-Adrien!
And Lulu, I know we'll be seeing more of her adorable self in your next updates.
Great update.  How I've missed the Grims.

[Ricalynn]

Hi. Remember me? I barely do so I won't fault you if you don't.

Remember where we left off? I didn't either but I just reread my entire story... again.  and I think I know of the best way to catch us all up!

Previously on Stayin' Alive...

Artie is back and he's trying out this dynasty again but something is a little off. He's taking instructions from a watcher that isn't much of a watcher and the boss hasn't been mentioned once. With his new instructions and the version of the dynasty rules he was given, Artie went out to seek out a new partner in crime to get the whole thing started. Along the way, he met old friends who he remembered from a long distant past in another version of the Simverse where he had once been king. Though his memory didn't seem to be particularly trustworthy, he was insane erratic so who knows?

Artie eventually came across a pale vibrant woman by the name of Lena Diehl who came with a son whose original name was so horrendous that Artie renamed him to Magnus and that was a big deal. With Lena's help, Artie was able to join university for the first time and begin what would one day become the dynasty house that we currently all know and love.

As time grew on, Magnus the teen became Magnus the YA and he found someone that he couldn't stop thinking about. Dynasty favorite Kaori joined the household and so did new friend Mizuki who seemed to be just the right type of woman in just the right spot. While Kaori and Magnus fell farther in love, Lena grew older. Artie gave her the best that he could until the end and with the second generation coming he honored her by name his own daughter Alena. Meanwhile, Kaori and Magnus had a son named Ichiro.

Alena and Ichiro are best friends that caused all manner of shenanigans as toddlers, then again as children and teens. They did what they could while also maintaining the dynasty standard of doing everything they could. All skills maxed, all aspirations finished. They both finished Scouts before ever reaching teen.  They also befriended the latest addition to the house.

Old Grim family friend Malcolm Landgraab was asked to join the household so that Artie could give him companionship in his last days. For his elder birthday, Malcolm adopted a child and brought him to the Grim Dynasty house. Adrien was an instant favorite between Alena and Ichiro and they invited him to follow them around whenever they could. Malcolm and Artie both doted on the boy until Malcolm's passing then Artie took the mantle for himself alone. Malcolm's death was just the beginning as the old red man said goodbye to all his friends one by one just after eating ambrosia for the first time.

Magnus and Mizuki passed within days of each other with Kaori, who had brought magic into the house under the watcher and Artie's noses, was the last to go. But not without seeing her son Ichiro get married to an island elemental he had fallen in love with. Kamea joined the house as Ichiro's wife, and while there was that brief moment where Ichiro and Alena had tried to kiss (after the wedding for some reason), the pair had been deeply in love.

Adrien had loved Alena from afar since he was a child and while they had been teens, they had grown close but never made a move. The night of his YA birthday, Artie told Ichiro's daughter Lulu that her best friend was on the way as if he had no doubt that Alena and Adrien would take matters into their own hands. 

Artie was right and Ashwin came along at the same time that temporary housemate Yuusuke's brood was born. Of his fourth children, only one held the vibrancy gene and Racheal was asked to join the house as a toddler. Artie wants to make sure that the daughter of his friend has a good life since townies aren't known for having fulfilling experiences. At least.. they weren't.

So now here we are with special little Lulu having just turned into a child.  Baby Ashwin and Racheal are right around the corner. But as it often does with Sims.. things happen and soon... you too shall know the truth of why this family has been in the dark for so long. 

Chapter 62: Graduation Gowns & Growing Up

*Everyone but Artie teleports in*
Artie: Whoa.. was that magic? Where'd you guys get magic?
Adrien: Really Artie?
Artie: Huh?
Adrien: We do it all the time at home.
Artie: No..
All Four Kids: Yea...


Kamea: Think they'll be the only ones who graduate?
Artie: Nah. There are always late people.
Adrien: Should we mention the shoes?
Artie: You'd be surprised how comfy those heels are.
Kamea: The things that are coming out of your mouth today...


Artie: So since we're waiting on them. Were you serious about the magic stuff?
Adrien: Of course I was. Do you honestly not remember?
Kamea: He is an old man.
Artie: I am, it's never happened before, but you know I've noticed some things. Like how you didn't go to school. We could still send you, you know.
Kamea: -chuckles-


Kamea: Artie.. you're the only one without magic in the entire house.
Artie: What? No, I'm not. I'm a reaper. I can do all sorts of cool things.
Adrien: Sure you can.
Kamea: But can you do them right now.
Artie: Well.. no.
Kamea: We can do a lot of things actually.
Artie: Huh.
Voice: Wow here you guys are.. here they come.
Artie: Took you long enough. Left me alone with the weirdos again.


Why yes they did change shoes...


Artie: Hey kiddo. Let me be the first one to say, congrats!
Alena: Thanks, Daddy. 
Ichiro: Hey where's the other two?
Artie: I don't know. Watcher showed up and then they disappeared for a moment.
Ichiro: Huh.


Artie: I'm proud of you, son. And I know your parents are, too.
Ichiro: Thanks. I'm glad that you could be here for this.
Artie: I wouldn't be anywhere else.


Kamea: Congratulations baby!
Ichiro: There you are! Thank you!
Kamea: Yea there was.. well we'll talk about it later.
Artie: Still missing someone aren't we?
Alena: Here he comes.
Artie: Don't trip trying to get to him.
Alena: Why would I trip?
Artie: Random clumsiness due to the gown.
Alena: Yea ok, Daddy.


Adrien: Good job, love.
Alena: Thank you. It wouldn't have been easy to do if you hadn't taken care of Ashwin more. I promise that will get a lot easier now.
Adrien: You don't owe me anything. You've been perfect.


Ichiro: Good job Princess.
Alena: Way to not suck, Itchy.
Ichiro: So we finally did it.
Alena: You ready for what's next?
Ichiro: Absolutely.


Secret Handshake - Graduation Gown style


Ichiro: Lulu... why do you have a bag on your head?
Lulu: I don't have a bag on my face.
Ichiro: I know what you look like. I'm your father. Now is there something wrong? Did you get something on your face?
Lulu: No.. well.. kind of.


Ichiro: Well which is it?
Lulu: Well I did something okay?
Ichiro: Okay what did you do?
Lulu: I don't want you and Mom to be mad.
Ichiro: Well I won't be if you just stop with the games.
Lulu: Okay but you have to know I did it because the other kids were being mean.
Ichiro: You did what, Loimata?


Lulu: So I know what you're thinking.
Ichiro: Do you?
Lulu: And I just want to fit in for a little bit okay? 
Ichiro: But I liked the way you looked.
Lulu: I know but this way no one will question whose house I belong to.
Ichiro: I'm not sure how I feel about it.
Lulu: Grampa Artie loves it.
Ichiro: Of course he does.. did he help you with it?
Lulu: Maybe a little bit.
Ichiro: I see...
Lulu: Oh Daddy... I wanted to ask you something.


Lulu used deflection. It was super effective.


Adrien: *sings loudly*
Alena: *afraid to drop the baby*
Ashwin: *going for it!*




He's so adorable!  He also loves the outdoors. 


She just looks guilty of something...doesn't she?


The family that plays together...Yeah no. I just needed them to all be busy for a little bit during the night and I didn't want them doing that silly sleep thing.


Alena: -deep inhale-
Voice: How is it you managed to max your career already? You've been out of university for like 4 days?
Alena: Just that good.
Voice: Okay well.. host a party it's Racheal's birthday. Brynlee should be here.
Alena: Oooh. Good idea.


Brynlee: Oh my big girl. You excited about your birthday?
Racheal: I want cake!
Brynlee: Then let's get you cake!
*It doesn't seem like it. But Racheal's mom is over all the time honestly. She prefers gaming on the computers but she's here for that all important Ask Why interaction.*


Brynlee: Okay big girl.. blow out the candles.
Racheal: Hot.
Brynlee: I know but I won't let them hurt you.
Racheal: Okay.


Alena: Let me just put this back for later..
Voice: Aww. Let's get you new stocks.


Racheal: Thanks for coming to my party, Mom.
Brynlee: No problem. I'm going to go home and get some sleep okay?
Racheal: Okay.  Come back tomorrow?
Brynlee:  And hear about your first day of school? You know it.

[oshizu]

Thanks so much for the catch-up summary.  Truly helpful.

All the beautiful kids! Child Ashwin looks a lot like his father, especially his eyes and ears (not to mention his skin and hair color....)
Do sim genetics ever skip a generation?

Also, I loved that Alena graduated with color-coordinated fins. WTH?
Wait, is Alena all done with her requirements except for her friendships and elder birthday?!?!?!

[Ricalynn]

Ashwin is basically a copy of his father. Except maybe his nose. There seems to be a little Alena in there somewhere maybe? As for skipping.. no idea. One way to find out is when Gen 4 gets here but I'm not even that far in gameplay.  Guess we'll all check it out together. 

And yes. Fins. Artie had heels, she had fins. Guess she wanted to make sure everyone knew she was coming. 

As of this update, I think Alena was waiting for her museum items (she's since gotten them), one party, elder birthday, and making friends. The party happens in the next update for her Adult birthday party.

Chapter 63: Social Butterflies x 3

What does one do with three children in a dynasty household? You force them to all finish social butterfly aspiration. That's what.


You also make sure that the weather will be cooperative for the all-night picture-taking session! Kamea has been hanging out with the Grims too much.


After everything is set up, you put the adults to work in ways that don't require your input. Alena got better at fishing while her fans fawned and fainted about her.


Artie: I didn't miss anything did I?
Voice: What are you wearing?
Artie: Work outfit.
Voice: That's not what you wear normally.
Artie: It's what I wore tonight!
Voice: Get changed before you scare someone off.


Voice: Hey I will not be ignored. Change!


Artie: This is better.
Voice: Nope.. go home. Work on painting or something.
Artie: You're no fun.
Voice: I know.


Racheal: And then he showed up in a bright green panda suit.
Brynlee: Nooo
Racheal: And he got sent home by the voice in the sky.
Brynlee: That's not good.
Racheal: But it was so funny!


Racheal: Mom you're my best friend
Brynlee: Aww. You're my best friend too, pumpkin.
Racheal: See you again tomorrow?
Brynlee: I wouldn't miss it.


Ashwin: Coast is still clear.
Lulu: This is so much fun.
Ashwin: Yea Weston has great ideas.
Lulu: Too bad no other kids showed up to the park.
Ashwin: It was kind of late.
Lulu: True.
Artie: Children I know I don't see what I think I see. 
Kids: -squeak-
Artie: Clean it up, now. We're about to do Ichiro's candles.


Artie: Watch where you're aiming that.
Alena: Daaad.
Artie: What?


Artie: They did pretty good. I don't see a speck on the floor.
Ichiro: Huh? Do Fireflies draw blood sometimes?
Artie: Oh no.. not the sparkles. Sorry, son. Ignore me. Welcome to adulthood.
Alena: We usually do.


Racheal: So you really thought you would get away with making a mess in Artie's house?
Ashwin: I thought this was going to be a friendly game.
Racheal: Who told you that?
Ashwin: Uhhh.


Voice: You sure you don't want me to call the others?
Kamea: Yes. We just got the notification. Let's just get this over with.
Voice: If you're sure...


Kamea: I am.
Why yes her eyelids are a different color sometimes.. glad other people notice too.


Voice: How does it feel?
Kamea: -not listening-
Voice: Hellooo
Kamea: Oh sorry. I was just trying to concentrate on the message the fireflies had for me.
Voice: Huh?
Kamea: Nothing.


Green vs Blue.... which non-red will win?


Artie: I remember us doing this with your dad.
Adrien: Yea that seems like such a long time ago but it wasn't was it?
Artie: You were Ashwin's age.
Ashwin: Are you going to talk or help?
Artie: He may look like you but he's got some of his mother in him.
Adrien: Yea. And I'm okay with that.
Ashwin: -rolls eyes-


Artie: And that's how it's done.
Ashwin: We're the best.
Adrien: Eh..
Artie: Oh c'mon.
Adrien: I'm good.  Great job guys. Let's go get popcorn.
Ashwin: Oooh popcorn.

[Ricalynn]

I once mentioned a while ago that something had happened in the game that put me in an odd mood and it's time to share. So since I'm not sure I can put my usual spin on this particular event. I thought I'd try something a little different. Use the part of my brain that still says I might actually be a writer by the time I'm ancient.

Chapter 64: Adulthood & Adieu

Dear Secret Keeper,

I know it's been a few days since I said I would start you and promised to write every day but it's hard to keep up with the craziness that is our life and get time to myself. Living in this household has never been easy or quiet and I'm not sure that I'd ever have it any other way. This is how a dynasty house should be. All the stories say so!

I'm writing in you today because today was one of those days that a Sim always dreads. It's not easy to handle growing up on a normal day in a dynasty house but the amount that the kids had to do today was more than I had hoped for. Though each one did as they were meant to do. The birthday party at the park was a complete success just because the Grims were there. A famous author and a painter had come with their chef and conservationist significant others. People swooned left and right at our actually leaving the house. We should probably do that more often.


"Ready, babe?" "As I'll ever be." "You got this."


"What more could a girl wish for when she has everything?"

The blowing out of the candles went smoothly though as always, when the fireflies were done a look of shock took over the recipient's face. The rest of the group were all still celebrating while encouraging words and sparkle magic finished the job at hand.





Not that much was different. Alena is still beautiful and her man knows it. Not that he's ever been shy about how he felt. Most of us just didn't realize what he was thinking until things got weird with the age gap. Now she had a younger man and everything else she could want. A few more friends and 21 Sim days and her goals for this life are complete. The look of happiness that comes from the two of them is what dynasty dreams are made of.

The children missed all of the celebrating to finish the job they had started the previous night. With the earlier hour, criminals were at work but children were allowed to come to the park. All of Yuusuke's children were able to come out and meet their sister Racheal as well as Lulu and Ashwin. The girls born to sisters could be twins which makes me think they take after their father.


Lyric Abe


Lillie Abe


Rodolpho Jordan

What happened next is the whole reason I made a point to start this journal entry. Everyone was having a great time. There wasn't an unhappy person in the park or from the house. The only exception was the old red man that was stuck at work. It was almost time to go though and there were plans to stop at the house and then come to the venue. Mostly because there had been a wardrobe malfunction last time and no one was having any of that this time. It was Alena's birthday after all.

No one knows when he had slipped away. The kids were all busy becoming friends with everyone they met and then having deep meaningful conversations to further their social skills. Everyone was trying their hand at keeping busy so that the focus could now be on the kids and the three sets of goals that were to be accomplished. We're used to it. Someone's needs always come first when there are goals to be met and some of the rest of us are at the point of just keeping busy until the end of our time.

That's why it was too late when the notification came across. No one could get there. Fate had decided this had to happen and none of us are allowed to stop that kind of thing from happening. It's soul-crushing to have power and yet still not able to stop something that would be easily managed. The rules say that we can't though and this. This is why my heart is broken while my pen moves across the paper.







In a dynasty house like ours, the notification was able to draw just everyone to where things were happening. All the times this has happened but only one person is ever missing from witnessing true tragedy.

Adrien hadn't just been the kid that moved in. He was family from the moment he looked at us from behind his Dad's legs and said hello. He had never been the kid sibling but a companion that had been there for all of us to enjoy the company of. He shared laughs and love freely with the family that had taken him in and made sure that he hadn't grown up in the harsh system. It was his closest loved ones that found him first.



Eventually, the entire park found its way into that tiny room that needs heavy remodeling. The soul collector did his job quickly and efficiently so that the body wasn't stuck laying there for hours waiting for the next stage. Though he apparently was not done with his tasks for the evening.





No one is really sure what he was trying to accomplish when he got near the birthday girl, but I don't believe what happened had been a part of the plan. There were a few witnesses to the interactions but no one knows what happened. It sounded like creepy whispers being passed back and forth as if someone hadn't wanted anyone else to know what was being spoken. Eventually, Little Red got angry at the visitor. He was taken aback at her vehemence but he seemed even more shocked that she disappeared. However, soul collectors are immune to most magic. Yes, magic. The details of how she got magic are fuzzy but that's why I have a journal. To keep this information somewhere that can't be changed by other forces.




*Looks like he's staring at the camera and giving 'tude, doesn't it?*



After the reaper was gone, everyone dispersed to handle their grief in different ways. The painter and his bride spent a few moments remembering how lucky they were. Alena blacked out momentarily and was unable to remember why she had gotten herself undressed. Is it a Grim thing? It makes one wonder.





Of the children, they kept going like troopers. A harsh lesson was learned and while one blue child disappeared, the other stayed behind to make sure that Adrien's son was going to be okay. The pair of them finished out their aspirations while she made him feel better next to the fire and spot where Adrien had laid just the hour before. It was a bittersweet victory honestly. Their friendship deepened even further just like his mood.





Somewhere an old red man appeared at the park. He seemed to know what had happened without anyone telling him and without having witnessed the event. It didn't matter what it looked like to others that the boss was upset. There was no other way for him to handle himself when such overwhelming grief radiated within his soul.



There were those at the park that were not allowing the family their private moments. The Diehl family line had gone in search of their little one only for a pap to follow into the restroom. While the son of Magnus fell into a pit of despair otherwise known as an emotional bomb, his bride took offense to the snake that wanted to document the event to sell for the papers. He had even dared to get pictures of their young child so with a spark of fire, she turned to an old trick she had learned when volcanic bombs would have done much more damage than was necessary. All while maintaining an air of innocence that made it difficult to prove it was her.









The elemental lady got the rest of our house to go home to let the park itself handle the remnants of a celebration turned tragedy. We didn't even remember to bring back the cheesecake to the house. While I was there, I wandered about listlessly without wanting to face the music of what would be a house with one less voice, one less laugh. Normally I can handle myself in a way that keeps just about everyone guessing as to how I truly feel but this night was not one of them. I didn't care about my reputation. I wasn't listening for the voice or anything else. I just found myself moving forward until I found myself near a cave that I had never seen before. There is something eerily familiar about it but as I've spent very little time at the Desert Bloom. The boards that kept the grotto hidden and forgotten by the masses, myself included,  seemed to be an excellent avenue for some of my rage. I blinked while I ripped them apart. My whole person deflated when the task was done as if the energy I had used took away the last of what was keeping me going.

I suddenly found myself standing in front of a pond down the hill at the back and something about it took a hold of me. A feeling of loss that went deeper than my soul came over me. I don't know why the site of the fishing pond made me feel more loss than I had already been experiencing. I just know that there was a meaning behind it and I'm sure the moodlet drink that will be waiting for me at the voice's behest will remove it from my mind. I can't let that happen again today. So here I am writing in you instead of going home the way that I should. One day I hope to know what's hiding deep and figure out why I can't seem to remember. Is it from the ancient past or is it something else? I wish I knew. But the memory is out of reach and may remain so if my suspicions are correct. One day.. one day I'll find it again. That day is not today. I will never forget Adrien. Never. I never forget and it makes me ache deep inside that I have forgotten someone else. However, I cannot handle any more sadness so it is time to go enjoy the numbness of the moodlet solver.

Adieu, little man. Adieu, dear friend. I will keep our family going. This I can promise and we both know that I will succeed.

Good night for now journal. Back to the depths of my pocket, you shall go until I need you again. Remember to keep my secrets and memories safe from those that would have them exposed and forgotten.

- A Grim.

[oshizu]

Rest in peace, Adrien.
You will be remembered as the loving sim who was always smiling. *sniffle, sniffle
How heart-breaking.

[Granny Lawlor]

Oh that is sad! These Sims do worm their way into our affections, don't they.
Thank you for sharing

[Ricalynn]

Thank you for reading, Granny. And yes they do become special to us. Though some more than others. I've been back to Sims for less than a year and Adrien hit me harder than any of the others. I'm not sure why but I honestly feel like it has something to do with the fact that his time wasn't happy at the end with a warning. Instead, he left because of circumstances I was unable to prevent. Or at least it felt that way.  I'm not a fan of not maintaining some Sim control. 

Adrien has somehow found his way into my special little vault and I may choose to pull him out of said vault for another challenge in the future.  He will always be Artie's pseudo-son-in-law (Alena and Adrien never got married because I was waiting for her to finish the last of her requirements which she did that night except for friendships. Artie even made them a cake. )

However, onwards to happier adventures.. at least happier-ish.  It gets better soon. I promise.

Chapter 65: A Real Goodbye

The Gnome: ...
Alena: I can't decide if this is a good idea.
The Gnome: ...
Alena: Don't look at me like that.  It's too cold for the fireflies or I'd be talking to them.
The Gnome: ...
Alena: You're right, of course.
The Gnome: ...
Alena: Okay but why didn't he appear?
The Gnome: ...
Alena: He's dead. Not like he can feel the cold but okay. I'll check.
The Gnome: ...
Alena: Thanks. -leaves-
The Gnome: I thought she'd never leave.
Unknown Voice: I didn't think the family knew you could talk.
The Gnome: They don't.
UV: Then... why?
The Gnome: Have you met this family?
UV: -glare-
The Gnome: Then you know what I mean!


Adrien apparently really had to pee.
Alena: The book did work!
Adrien: Of course it did, you wrote it.
Alena: Yeah but we just left Desert Bloom. I wasn't sure how much time you were going to need.
Adrien: Apparently as your baby daddy, I got express shipping.
Alena: -shove- Not nice. -chuckles-
Adrien: -grins-


Adrien: So wait.. you want to give me a key to our house?
Alena: Well technically it's not yours anymore.
Adrien: Okay but why?
Alena: I want to test if you'll show up sometimes like Brynlee does.
Adrien: Uhhh.. okay then.
Alena: Where you going?


Adrien: It's bothering my undead senses that this thing is broken. I'm going to fix it.
Alena: Oh. Well, have fun with that.
Adrien: Shouldn't take me that long.


Ashwin: Dad?
Adrien: Hey buddy.
Ashwin: What are you doing here?
Adrien: Your mom used my book to call me over.
Ashwin: Are you here to stay?
Adrien: No big guy. It's against the rules for me to rejoin the house.
Ashwin: Oh. So.. what's it like being dead?
Adrien: Pretty weird actually. It's nice seeing my dad again and all the other people from the house but then there are all these people who know about us because of your granddad. A lot of them seem to know what's going on. I didn't get to stay on the other side for very long but I promise to be back and let you know more if you want.
Ashwin: I don't want you to go.


Adrien: I know buddy. I love you very much but you have to take care of your mom for me.
Ashwin: Mom can take care of herself.
Adrien: I know. Grims take care of themselves. But sometimes the best thing about being a Grim is the other Grims. Learn the rules, reach your goals and I'll come see you again. I promise.
Ashwin: Okay.  I'll try.
Adrien: I know you can. Now. Run off and go play. I'm gonna go take a nap.  We never slept and I wonder what it would be like.


Alena: Adrien?
Ashwin: Shhh.. he's sleeping.


Why is he programming when I'm trying to talk to him..


Alena: Adrien this isn't funny.
Adrien: Later.
Alena: Adrien.  I'm gonna take back the key if you keep this up.


Adrien: I'm sorry.
Alena: I'm not sure I believe you.
Adrien: I'm sorry I upset you?
Alena: Maybe.  Should I take back the key or not?
Adrien: Please don't. I'll behave.


Adrien: Boo!
Alena: Not even a little scary.
Adrien: I'm working on it!


Kids are home!


Artie: Who are you and why are you making a mess in my house?
Kid: I'm Rodolpho Jordan and this is my sister's house.
Artie: Did your sister tell you that you could make a mess in her house?
Rodolpho: Well.. no.
Artie: You better clean it up right now and then I want you sitting down right over there where the others are doing their homework.
Rodolpho: Yes, sir.


Rodolpho: You know I've heard stories about me?
Artie: About me?
Rodolpho: Yea. I've heard that you're a secret agent working for the government.
Ashwin: -laughs-
Artie: Me?  Little ole me? No, I'm definitely not a spy.


Rodolpho: I also heard that you're a mean guy and that you're actually evil. That you have piles of gold you sleep on like a dragon and you eat little kids who are bad.
Artie: -gasp!-


Artie: Silly boy. Let me tell you a few things to get straight...
Ashwin: -chuckles-