Welcome to the fourth and final installment of chapter two in the Pseudo Legacy.

At the end of part three, our founders, Taylor Legacina and his beloved Professor Kelly, had passed on,
leaving behind their children and grandchildren to carry on the legacy. Zoey and Christian had patched up
their troubled marriage and added a girl to the third generation. It was unclear which of the third generation
children - Brody, Micah or Persephone - would become the heir for the next generation.




                     This chapter was originally uploaded to the Sims2 Exchange on February 24, 2007.
Grief lingered in the Legacina home. Taylor and Professor Kelly, both popularity sims, were loved by pretty
much everyone in the house, even little Persephone. Zoey was especially troubled. She had always counted
on the guidance her parents provided her. Now the weight of the legacy was on her shoulders.

Of course, Zoey and her family were not the only ones affected by Taylor’s death...
The Grim Reaper made an additional stop after he helped Professor Kelly on to the afterlife. ā€œNICE PLACE
YOU HAVE HERE, KIRSTIAL. THIS IS BETTER THAN THE HOLE YOU WERE LIVING IN THE LAST TIME WE
SPOKE.ā€

Kirstial was startled and irritated at the unexpected visit, but knew better than to be rude to the incarnation
of Death, ā€œHow nice of you to stop by, Grim.ā€ She paused and then added an impatient, ā€œWhat do you
want?ā€

Well, at least she tried to be polite.
ā€œI THOUGHT IT WOULD BE AMUSING TO LET YOU KNOW THAT YOU FAILED.ā€ The Grim Reaper gave a
smug and disturbingly raspy chuckle.

ā€œWhat on earth do you mean by that?ā€ Kirstial was getting irritated. She had been in the middle of watching
ā€˜Lost’. They were going to reveal the answer to some big secret. But then again, maybe not. This was ā€˜Lost’
after all.

ā€œTHE LAST SOUL YOU OWED YOUR BENEFACTOR WAS RECENTLY PICKED UP AFTER HAVING LIVED A
LONG AND FULFILLING LIFE.ā€ Going in for maximum taunt, he added, ā€œHE DIED OF OLD AGE, KIRSTIAL.
YOU FORFEIT THE POWER OF HIS BLOOD.ā€

ā€œNO!!!!ā€ Kirstial howled then buried her head in her hands, ā€œGAH! How could I have missed him? Are they so
pathetically short lived?! This is unfair! I can’t lose like this! I’ll kill his children!ā€
Looking at his list, the Grim Reaper corrected, ā€œCHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN, YOU MEAN. BY MY
COUNT, THE FAMILY LINE IS GOING STRONG AND THERE ARE NOW THREE PRIMARY GRANDCHILDREN
AND TWO SECONDARY.ā€ If he had eyebrows, he would waggle them mockingly, ā€œLIKE WEEDS AND
RABBITS, Y’KNOW.ā€

ā€œWhat!?ā€ Kirstial was shocked, ā€œHow are there that many grandchildren!? I took measures to see that they
produced no more offspring.ā€

ā€œPLEASE DON’T MAKE ME EXPLAIN THE BIRDS AND THE BEES TO YOU, KIRSTIAL.ā€
Later that evening, after a quick and angry phone call, Tamara Almassizadeh, Kirstial’s interning minion,
arrived to plead her case.

ā€œPlease don’t hurt me! I swear I don’t know what happened. He was mine, it was in the bag and then
something happened. He went back to her even though it was something he should have never considered.ā€
Tamara had deftly kept the news of Christian and Zoey’s reunion from Kirstial’s ears, ā€œIt.. it must have been
m.magic of some kind.ā€
Kirstial was none too pleased with her minion and did not hesitate to let the girl know, ā€œHISS! FAH! There
was no magic, just your ugly face! Your incompetence is going to cost me valuable time in my mission. If
you had just done your job correctly, then I would be on schedule! I should have you for dinner and bury
you in the backyard!ā€

ā€œNO! Please... I.. I promise, I can do better. I know I can. Just give me a chance.ā€ Tamara pleaded
desperately.
Kirstial snarled and crossed her arms, ā€œI will think about it. Maybe I’ll think of a use for you and give you a
call. For now, get out of my sight.ā€

ā€œWhat about my credit hours?ā€

ā€œI SAID I would think about it! Now go before I change my mind and kill you anyway!ā€

ā€œYipe! Going now.ā€ Tamara scurried from the house with her figurative tail between her legs.
ā€œWhy is it so hard to get good help?ā€ Kirstial pouted after Tamara left, her house now quiet. ā€œNothing else
could possibly go wrong at this point.ā€

Oh, never speak too soon, Kirstial. Things can always get worse.
Back at the Legacina homestead, it was time for an unusual occurrence: a quiet birthday. While everyone
was away at school or work, little puppy Benny turned into handsome, grown-up collie Benny.

ā€œWow, I got big!ā€
ā€œNow that I’m big, no more little sticky people mauling me! When I was a puppy, they could just pick me up
and there was nothing I could do about it! Now I’m a big, bad dog and no one’s going to embarrass me or
get my fur all sticky with mysterious baby substances any longer!ā€
Yep. Benny, the big bad guard dog of the house was never going to be mauled or manipulated by a small
child again. That vow probably lasted all of two hours. Just enough time for Persephone’s nap to be over.

ā€œBenny got big! Yay!ā€

ā€œNot the ear, not the ear! She’s sticky and smells like old peanut butter!

Poor Benny.
ā€œBrody, how did Benny get big? When we left for school, he was just a puppy, but when we got home, he
was all big and stuff?ā€ Taking after his father, Micah was a bit light in the I.Q. department.

ā€œAliens came down from the sky and zapped him with a ray gun that made him grow up instantly.ā€ Brody,
the smart one in the family, enjoyed teasing his brother.

ā€œBrody! Don’t confuse your brother.ā€ Like any mom, Zoey did what she could, but that was only so much.
Under her breath she added, ā€œOr at least don’t confuse him more than he already is.ā€
ā€œCome on aliens. I want to be big too. Come zap me with your grow-up ray!ā€ Micah spent the next several
nights on the telescope, hoping and praying for the aliens to come zap him like they did Benny.

It’s amazing how much he takes after his father.
It wasn’t long before it was time for the littlest Legacina to have a birthday. Without hesitation, the whole
party crew was called out to come to the house.

ā€œSee, my daughter is radioactive too. My children have super powers and will someday save the world.ā€
Christian was proud of his kids, even if he still didn’t understand the smart-milk glow.

Jan raised an eyebrow and nodded, ā€œSure Christian.ā€
Despite her father’s misunderstandings, Persephone still grew up into a lovely little girl.

Being the only girl in the generation, she initially dressed up like a pretty princess. That didn’t last too long,
though. Especially with two older brothers in the house. After the party, she changed into something a little
more practical.

ā€œLook at me, I’m a monster! Rahr Rahr Rahr!ā€

It goes without saying that the party was a success, even if the party dress wasn’t.
The next morning after her birthday, Persephone continued with a ritual she had started very young. ā€œAw,
Benny! Come here, time for loving.ā€

ā€œEeek! It got big. Don’t touch... wait.. oooh. That feels good. Yeah, yeah, right there. Ahhhhhh.ā€ Benny,
despite his protests, actually did love the kids, and sticky or not, loved getting attention from them.
With Persephone a child, it was time for one more visit from the headmaster. With both of the older boys in
private school, it was only natural that they would also try and get Persephone in.

ā€œThank you for inviting me over, Mrs. Legacina. Or should I say ā€˜General’.ā€ Korey Jitmakusol was a bit more
socially inept than his compatriots, but the family still did their best to make nice.

ā€œMrs. Legacina is fine, sir. I save the ā€˜General Legacina’ for formal occasions and people I intend to maim.
Would you like a tour of our home?ā€
ā€œWOOOH! Awesome room! Yeah! Rock on!ā€ Korey cheered each room with extreme enthusiasm.

Brody was the unfortunate one who was drafted to give the tour, much to his irritation. Grumbling under his
breath, Brody mumbled, ā€œIf he screams in my ear about the bathroom, I’m going to get mom’s explosives
and blow his car up.ā€

ā€œDid you say something, Brody?ā€

ā€œNo sir. Bathroom’s right this way.ā€

ā€œOoooh, I LOVE bathrooms!ā€
ā€œI’m glad you could join us, this evening, Mr. Jitmakusol. Our family is a good, strong one. No infidelity, no
explosives, no alien abductions, or even ghosts wandering the halls. No radioactive children either. Nope,
nothing strange here at all.ā€ Christian shook Korey’s hand enthusiastically as he came to dinner.

Zoey interrupted, ā€œChristian, honey, stop babbling and let the man eat.ā€

Despite the craziness and death threats, Persephone got into private school without a problem.
All in all, life was going well in the Legacina house. Brody and Micah might tease each other constantly, but
Persephone got along well with both of her brothers, bridging the rivalry that existed between the two boys.

ā€œWhat are you guys doing?ā€ Brody raised an eyebrow at his siblings as they danced wildly about the room.

ā€œWe’re dancing!ā€ Persephone replied happily.

ā€œI can see that. But why?ā€

ā€œBecause it’s Micah’s birthday!ā€
Indeed, it was time for Micah’s birthday.

ā€œWell, the aliens never came, but I’m going to get big like Brody anyway, and then he can’t tease me
anymore. And I’ll be able to drive the car. Ooh, and maybe the aliens will come and hit me with the grow-up
ray anyway and then I’ll be bigger than Brody! That would be AWESOME!ā€

ā€œBlow out the candles already, dweeb!ā€ Brody shouted from the crowd.
Following in his father’s, grandfather’s AND grandmother’s footsteps, Micah became a popularity sim upon
becoming a teenager. Like Professor Kelly, he had a lifetime want of having twenty best friends all at the
same time. It seemed like the Legacina household was predisposed towards popularity sims.

ā€œThis is an awesome party! I want to be friends with everyone here.ā€ Micah paused as he grabbed his slice
of cake, ā€œI Look kinda dorky, though.ā€
Dorky is something a trip to a dresser and a mirror can help. While it can be interesting to see what children
grow up into, it may not necessarily fit their personality.

ā€œAw yeah, I look good!ā€ Micah was particularly happy with his new look, ā€œHey baby. How you doin’?ā€

The party was still going on, though, so he couldn’t linger for too longer admiring himself.
ā€œOh wow, Micah, you turned out really cute.ā€ Genesis gushed at Micah after he came out of the bathroom.
Realizing what she said, the college placeholder blushed furiously, ā€œI.. I mean, your whole family is
handsome, and of course you would turn out well. And it’s not like I’m.. er.. Oh hey. There’s Charlie. I need
to go say hi.ā€

Micah blinked after her, ā€œUhm. Okay.ā€
Genesis went and found a corner to sit down in, hiding her embarrassment at gushing over a teenager. He
was cute, but he was also way too young.

Being a perceptive and compassionate one, Persephone wandered over and introduced herself to Genesis.
ā€œHi. I’m Persephone. You’re Genesis, right? Mommy said you’re keeping our college house safe for us.ā€

Smiling at the little girl, Genesis nodded, ā€œYep, that’s me. It’s nice to meet you, Persephone.ā€
ā€œYou know, it’s okay if you think Micah’s cute. I mean, he’s young now, but won’t you be the same age as
him almost when he gets to school since you don’t age until we get to college?ā€ Persephone forged on
ahead, offering wisdom that seemed beyond her age.

Genesis blinked at her and then nodded, ā€œI guess so. But it’s still weird.ā€ She was still blushing.

Persephone smiled, ā€œBesides, I hope you’re still there when I get to go to college, ā€˜cause then we could be
friends. Do you want to see my dollhouse?ā€

The party ended up being a success with everyone having a great time.
Now that the brothers were both teenagers, Micah took advantage of the opportunity of the level playing
field. Pulling Brody into a headlock he noogied him, ā€œHah big brother! How does it feel now that we’re both
teenagers!ā€

ā€œAahg, let go of me, dork!ā€
Despite his penchant for teasing his younger brother, Brody was a true knowledge sim. He was happiest
with his nose buried in a book or otherwise learning some new skill. Where other teenagers were obsessed
with girls, cars and video games, all Brody ever wanted was to learn something new.
Brody was often the one to make sure that his siblings also excelled in school. Very often, after he finished
his own homework, he would start helping them with theirs. ā€œThe variable is multiplied by the constant and
then divided by the square of the hypotenuse, giving you the value that you’re looking for. See, it’s simple.ā€

ā€œBrody,ā€ Micah said with a touch of exasperation, ā€œShe’s only in first grade!ā€

ā€œIt’s never too early to learn.ā€
Eventually the ghosts of the first generation founders began to make haunting visits to the main house.
Taylor was seen first, looking sharp in his general’s uniform.

Why do you look so sad, Taylor?

ā€œOh, hey Voice. I just... I miss them all. Even the big dumb lug my daughter married. It’s hard being able to
check up on them, but not really do anything other than scare them.ā€

They miss you too, Taylor. You and Professor Kelly both.
Professor Kelly also took the time to make her presence felt. She actually came to visit more often than
Taylor did, as if she wanted to make sure they were keeping the house up to her standards.

ā€œMac and cheese? Who is doing the cooking around here? There’s no nutritional value there, hrmph.ā€
ā€œEEEK! Grandma!?ā€ Brody jumped back and clutched his chest as Professor Kelly scared him during one of
his skilling sessions. ā€œWow! I think my stomach jumped through the roof of my mouth.ā€

Well, you are wandering around the mausoleum, Brody. You’re bound to see a ghost in there.

Grinning wildly, he nodded enthusiastically, ā€œYep! Just what I was hoping for. That was AWESOME! I hope
she does it again.ā€

*sigh* Knowledge sims.
It was getting close to the time when Brody would be heading off to college, but a heir had not yet been
chosen for their generation. He called a meeting with his siblings to discuss the issue.

ā€œSo, the way this works is that one of us gets chosen to be the heir. We all go off to college, but only one of
us comes back here to carry on the family line. The others get to go off and do other things. Kinda like Aunt
Victoria. Mom got chosen to be heir and Aunt Victoria was the spare.ā€

Glancing between Micah and Persephone, he said, ā€œI haven’t really decided if I want to be heir or not. I am
first born, but that doesn’t really mean anything. What do you two want?ā€
Micah considered a moment, then shook his head, ā€œI don’t really want it. I mean, it sounds like a lot of
responsibility. I just want to have fun and I’m kinda.. well, I’m kinda dumb. I’d probably screw things up.
You guys would both do better’n me.ā€
ā€œI don’t think it works that way, Micah. And you don’t give yourself enough credit. You would probably be
just as good at it as any of us.ā€ Persephone was young, but wise for her years. She was soon going to turn
into a teenager and had been thinking on this as well, ā€œI don’t know either, Brody. It’s a lot of responsibility,
and there’s something else going on. Mom knows something, but hasn’t told any of us.ā€
Considering for another moment, she said, ā€œI don’t see why this can’t wait until another day. I mean, it only
has to be decided by the time you graduate, Brody. We can wait and then figure it out during college. Just
because Mom knew early on she was heir doesn’t mean we have to decide early too.ā€

ā€œYou’re right, Persey. Okay, it’s decided. We wait until college.ā€
With Persephone’s birthday also came the time for Brody to go off to college. It was going to be the last
time that all three of the third generation children lived together in the Legacina home. In the afternoon
before the party, the trio took the time to take a photograph for their parents.
As with most Legacina birthdays, this one was also a big party. Persephone was eager to grow up, but her
parents were a bit wistful about the whole thing.

Christian looked at the cake, ā€œAre you sure you don’t need me to help, sweetie?ā€

Smiling up at her father, Persephone said, ā€œI’m sure, Daddy. I’m too big for you to toss in the air anyway.ā€

Sighing, he relented, ā€œI guess so.ā€
Blowing out the candles, she twirled into teenagerhood. ā€œWhoa!ā€

ā€œAlright Persey! You turned out cute!ā€ Brody and everyone cheered her on.

Persephone ended up as a Family sim, explaining her wise empathy for her family from an early age. Her
lifetime want was to have six grandchildren. Even her major goal took a look at the long view of life.
Still, she was a teenager and like Micah, she decided she needed a wardrobe change. While what she grew
up in wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t really her.

ā€œOh yeah, this is much much better. This is definitely more me.ā€ Pausing a moment, she suddenly grinned,
ā€œAnd damn I am cute. Watch out boys, here I come.ā€
Having watched both Micah and Persephone primp in the mirror, Benny decided to give it a try as well. After
all, it seemed to make them happy, why wouldn’t it make a dog happy too?

Oh yeah, who’s the handsome dog. Ooh. Hey, I can play with myself. Can’t catch me! Woof!ā€

Silly Benny.
When the last guest left Persephone’s birthday party, Brody made his way over to the computer. It was time
to finalize his scholarships and call the taxi. With all the skilling and studying he had done through his teen
years, he was well prepared for college. He was also eager to go, but there was a part of him that knew he
was going to miss home.
ā€œGood luck, Brody. You’re going to love college. There are cute girls everywhere and all kinds of parties all
the time. Be careful of any cows you meet and don’t be scared if someone starts doing the chicken dance in
front of you.ā€ Christian offered his own, odd version of sage advice.

ā€œUh.. okay Dad.ā€

For her part, Zoey was trying hard to not get sentimental, ā€œ*sniff* My baby... All grown up.ā€
He might be on his way to growing up, but Brody did pause to do one last childish thing. ā€œTake that, Micah!
One last noogie for the road! Heheh.ā€

ā€œAaahg! Not the hair! Don’t touch the hair!ā€
ā€œAlright! Let’s get this show on the road, driver. You, me, a suitcase and a pocketful of scholarship money.
Let’s do this thing!ā€

Even if he was going to miss his family, this was the moment Brody had been waiting for.
Meanwhile, across town at a new club called the Merkabah, Kirstial was at a business meeting of sorts.

ā€œI was wondering when you would contact me. It is only natural for the local organizations to recognize true
strength and power. Your acknowledgement of such things within me will go a long way to continuing the
peace in the city.ā€
ā€œUh... right.ā€ Mary Smith raised an eyebrow at Kirstial who sat across from her, ā€œActually, we arranged this
meeting to explain how *you* had failed to follow the proper etiquette of the city and introduce yourself to
the Grand Master.ā€ Hesitating, she continued, ā€œThis is also your opportunity to rectify your oversight and
make the proper apologies to the Grand Master.ā€
ā€œWhat?!ā€ Kirstial’s tone was both surprised and dismissive, ā€œYou have got to be kidding me. You expect
*ME* to bow down and kiss the toes of some stinky vamp who probably didn’t even have to work for his
powers? I know your type. You’re pretty enough that someone decides they want to keep you around for a
while. Wham Bam, Thanks for the immortality! Well, I’ll have you know that *I* made sacrifices to gain my
power. You’ll find no sniveling and simpering toady in me!ā€
Appearing out of nowhere, Grand Master Robi regarded Kirstial, ā€œIs that so? Just a pretty boy and his harem
of hanger ons is what you expected, isn’t it?ā€

Kirstial was nonplussed by his sudden appearance. Rising with a sneer on her lips, she said, ā€œAnd apparently
that’s all I’m going to see anyway. You’re nothing.ā€
ā€œNothing?ā€ Robi’s voice took on a dangerous tone, ā€œOne does not get to be Grand Master by being
ā€˜Nothing’.ā€ And with that, a surge of power leapt from his hand towards her, wrapping Kirstial in a rush of
painful electricity.
Not the wisest of women, Kirstial only got angry by that show of power, ā€œYou think that makes you
something? Well, I’ll tell you what, mister. You’re still NOTHING. N. O. T. H. I. N. G. Do I need to spell it
again?ā€
ā€œKirstial Legacina, you are officially trespassing on my clan’s territory. You have insulted me and mine and
are unwelcome here. Take this as a warning and flee with your life while you still can.ā€ Robi didn’t enjoy
getting all high and mighty, but when he had to, he could be impressive.
ā€œWhateve.... AIEEGH!ā€ Kirstial still did not take him seriously, but this time Robi let loose with a real display
of power. The energy ripped through her painfully until she collapsed and passed out. When she woke, she
was in the alley behind the club and the other vampires were nowhere to be found.
Back at the Legacina homestead, Brody had come home for a visit. While he was settling in to college life
well, there was something to be said for home cooking.

ā€œHey Mom, Dad, Dork, Persey, and Benny! I’m home!ā€
ā€œBrody, you’re cheating!ā€ Persephone was outraged when she caught her older brother trying to trick her
during a game of chess.

ā€œIt’s a family tradition, Persey. Just ā€˜cause you’re nicer than most of us doesn’t mean we won’t still try and
cheat with you. Besides, it’s good experience. You’ll get more scholarship money this way.ā€

ā€œBrody, do you ever think of anything besides school?ā€
That did bring up something Brody wanted to discuss with his mom. ā€œMom, I wanted to ask you about
something. I’ve been staying in the dorms for a bit, y’know, getting a feel for dorm life before moving in
with Genesis at the Greek house. But it’s weird. There are these girls there that just won’t leave me alone.
I’m studying, they want to study with me. I’m eating, they want to eat with me. Heck, I’ve caught a couple
of them trying to follow me into the guy’s bathroom. What’s up with that?ā€

ā€œBrody, hon, for someone as smart as you are, you are definitely as clueless as your father sometimes.ā€ Zoey
just smiled as she ate her sandwich.

ā€œHuh?ā€

ā€œYou’ll understand someday, sweetie.ā€
While Brody might not ā€˜get it’, Micah definitely wanted it. Where one brother was smart, the other appeared
to be clueless, so Micah was definitely aware of the opposite gender. He’d also give anything to have the
effect on them that Brody seemed to have.

ā€œSo, Meadow. Uhm. Would you like to go out sometime?ā€

ā€œHrm. Are you paying?ā€

ā€œUhm. I guess?ā€

ā€œAlright. I’ll go out with you.ā€

Yeah. Things weren’t really going that well for Micah, but he was trying.
That night, he and Meadow went out to the Crypt O’Night club. This was something Meadow actually got
excited about. ā€œI’ve heard this place is totally cool. This is really the happening spot. Maybe there’ll even be
some cute boys here.ā€

Micah blinked at Meadow, ā€œUhm.. maybe.ā€
As soon as they were through the door, Meadow disappeared off somewhere, leaving Micah alone. He spied
his Uncle Charlie getting down on the dance floor, so went over that way.

ā€œHey Uncle Charlie, nice moves.ā€

ā€œHey Micah! You here on a big date?ā€

ā€œKinda. Hey, do you have any ... girl advice?ā€

Considering for a moment, Charlie answered, ā€œJust be yourself. If they don’t like you for who you are,
they’re not worth the time. No matter how cute they are.ā€
Micah finally found Meadow over by the dance sphere. Working up his courage, he went up to her and said,
ā€œMeadow, I’m really glad you came out with me tonight. I’ve... I’ve thought you were really cute for a long
time. I was hoping you might...ā€

ā€œHold it, Legacy boy. I’m not interested, okay? I may be the easiest girl at school, but you’re not my type.ā€
As Micah was given the brush off by Meadow, the two were unaware that they had an audience. One of
Grand Master Robi’s vampires watched nearby. Melissa Lillard considered the two teenagers and then
realized that one of them was a Legacina.

ā€œHmm,ā€ She thought to herself, ā€œSo this is one of the ones the gypsy is trying to protect. Apparently he is
not having the best luck at the moment.ā€
Melissa pondered Micah’s dilemma as she made her way over to the bar. As chance would have it, she
ended up sitting down next to another Legacina. ā€œHmm, interesting. Very interesting.ā€

Victoria raised an eyebrow and looked at the pale woman, ā€œDo I know you? Can I help you with
something?ā€

Melissa smiled mysteriously and shook her head, ā€œNo, but I’m going to help your family.ā€

With that, she got up and disappeared from Victoria’s view.

Victoria blinked after her and muttered after her breath, ā€œFreak.ā€
That night, Micah left the club dejected and disappointed. When he got home, though, Meadow was waiting
and she was instantly all over him. ā€œOh Micah, I missed you so much, sweetie-kins. It was soooo lonely after
you left the club. I couldn’t bear to be without you.ā€

ā€œUh.. I thought you said I wasn’t your type.ā€ Micah was more than a little confused.

ā€œPish posh, silly. You’re the one I want.ā€ And with that, Micah got the kiss he had been hoping for. Meadow
obviously didn’t remember the ā€˜conversation’ she had with Melissa earlier that night at the club.
Micah was not the only one getting something he had been wanting for a long time. The day finally came
when Christian earned the promotion he had been working towards his entire life.

ā€œI did it! I did it! They asked me to be Captain Hero!ā€ He got out of the squad car and stood there for a
moment with a dazed expression on his face, ā€œWow. It’s finally happened. I’m a hero.ā€
Christian might not have been the smartest of spouses for Zoey, and he had certainly made mistakes along
the way, but his heart was always in the right place. The day he finally made Captain Hero was one of his
proudest. Finally he was the man he’d always wanted to be for Zoey and the kids.

ā€œWatch out Evil-Doers of Terra Lostundo, Christian Legacina, AKA Captain Hero is on the job! UP UP AND
AWAY!ā€ Radiation induced powers and all.
Persephone, for all her sweetness, was getting a little jealous of her two older brothers. Brody was off at
college and Micah was getting to go on dates with Meadow fairly frequently. When her friend Zack called
and invited her to go bowling, she jumped at the chance.

ā€œSure! I’d love to. I’ll meet you there.ā€
While a date would have been better, Persephone and Zack really didn’t feel that way about each other.
They were best friends, though. When they got to the bowling alley, they headed towards their lane when
Persephone saw it was occupied, ā€œSomeone’s already there, Zack.ā€

ā€œHuh? Oh, no. He’s with us. That’s Matthew Hourvitz. He’s a college friend of mine.ā€
Heading over, Zack introduced Persephone to Matthew. ā€œMatt, this is Persephone. She’s a friend of mine
from school.ā€

ā€œNice to meet you, Persephone.ā€ Matthew smiled brightly at the girl.

Persphone was instantly dumbstruck, ā€œWow, you’re hot.ā€ Blinking, she realized what she said and then
blushed furiously, ā€œUhm. I meant to say it’s really hot in here. I wish I was wearing a tank top like you.ā€

Matthew looked over at Zack with a raised eyebrow, then gave Persephone a friendly smile, ā€œYeah it is a bit
warm in here.ā€
Once Persephone got over her embarrassing stumble, bowling night went really well. The trio had fun
playing and proving how bad they were at bowling. Zack actually ended up in the lane a couple of times.

One person who was actually a really good bowler was Mrs. Crumplebottom. She put everyone there to
shame.
When bowling was over, Zack headed on home, leaving Persephone and Matthew to say their goodbyes.

ā€œThis was fun, Persephone. I should head back to school. I’ve got a term paper to write by the end of the
week.ā€ Matthew said with a grin.

Persephone hesitated a moment, then blurted out, ā€œDo you think we could do something like this again? I
mean, something fun as friends?ā€

Blinking, Matthew gave a charming smile, ā€œSure. Just give me a call. Seeya cutie.ā€

At that moment, Persephone was sure she was head over heels in love.
ā€œOh mom, he’s so handsome and so mature and he bowls really well.ā€ Persephone gushed to her mother
about her ā€˜love’.

Zoey smiled fondly, remembering her own first crush, ā€œHmm. Is that so? Does he go to your school?ā€

ā€œNo, he’s in college. I think he’s a history major. I’m sure he’s at the top of his class and on the dean’s list
and everything.ā€
ā€œCollege?ā€ Zoey blinked and then grew serious, ā€œPersephone, a college boy is a little too old for you right
now. Honey, you should stick to teenagers until you get older. What about that Orlando boy? He was sweet
on you and asked you out.ā€

Micah was on the phone in the background, ā€œMeadow, you just called me a half an hour ago.ā€ Sighing he
said tiredly, ā€œYeah, of course I missed you too. Yeah, I guess it has been forever.ā€
Persephone stared at her mother, ā€œMom, I don’t want any other boys! I love Matthew!ā€

Zoey, never the most patient person in the world, started to get exasperated, ā€œPersephone, if he’s really that
important to you, then you can wait until you go to college. Until then, you are not allowed to see him.
Period!ā€
Despite being a level-headed girl when it came to other people’s problems, Persephone didn’t take this edict
very well. ā€œYou all hate me and want me to be miserable!ā€

With the type of angst only possible in a teenager, she fled from the dining room and ran to her room,
where she listened to emo music the rest of the day.
Later that day, Zoey and Christian were having a moment alone. Among other things, they were discussing
Zoey’s conversation with Persephone, ā€œDo you think I was too hard on her, honey?ā€

ā€œHuh? Oh. Persephone. We’ll both talk to her in the morning and get her straightened out.ā€ Grinning slyly,
he pulled her closer, ā€œLet’s focus on you and me for now.ā€

Despite the bumps and bruises their relationship had experienced along the way, the two had a very healthy
and active sex life. Of course, this was something that weirded all the kids out.
The next morning, they attempted to discuss the issue with Persephone together, this time letting Christian
try and be the voice of reason. Gently, he said, ā€œPersephone, I know you really like this boy, but he is a lot
older than you right now. It’d be best to wait until you’re in college to date him.ā€

Persephone tried to focus on her omelet and not listen to what her parents were saying. She responded
with a sullen, ā€œWhatever.ā€ In an attempted to get them onto another topic of conversation, she tried a
diversion, ā€œHey dad, I think there’s a baby bird in my omelet.ā€

ā€œWhat? Where!? Let me see!ā€ Christian may have had his heart in the right place, but he was easily
distracted by shiny things and baby birds.
Around that time, Micah decided it was time for him to head off to college. Things with Meadow were weird.
Any time he was around, she got this glazed look in her eye and would hang all over every word he said. At
first he really liked it, but lately it had started to feel creepy.

Besides, Brody kept complaining about all the girls hanging off him at college, so it might be time to move
up and get a little variety in his life.
Micah was a little sad to say goodbye to the legacy home, especially since he probably wasn’t going to be
coming back. He was pretty sure smart Brody or sweet Persephone would end up as heir, leaving him to the
life of a spare. Not that he really minded.

ā€œSeeya house. I’m sure I’ll come visit. Take care of Mom, Dad, Persey and Benny.ā€
ā€œHELLO Sim State!ā€ The melancholy sadness of the goodbye only lasted a few seconds, though. Once he
was at college, Micah took to his new life with gusto. ā€œThe party animal is on the scene!ā€

Maybe the life of a spare wouldn’t be so bad after all.
Speaking of the lives of spares, life continued for the Thompsons. Life moved forward for them, even if they
weren’t always ā€˜on camera’.

Charlie had taken a little trip with some aliens a while back, and it seemed they had given him a parting gift.
ā€œUhm... Honey, I... I think I’m pregnant.ā€

ā€œDon’t be silly, Charlie. That’s just gas. I told you not to eat that chili last night. I mean, who ever heard of a
zombie cooking chili? Imagine the sanitation codes they must be breaking.ā€
After a couple of days of this even Victoria had to admit that Charlie was inexplicably pregnant. How and
why were something she didn’t really want to consider, so she kept her grumbling to herself.

For Charlie’s part, pregnancy was not the easiest of times. He found himself in a constant state of cycling
hunger, exhaustion and emotional turmoil.

ā€œHoney, get your face out of the lobster. You’re likely to pierce your nose that way.ā€

ā€œHuh, what?!? Oh... uhg...ā€
Alegra was still seeing to her ā€˜watchwolf’ duties with the same perseverance she had shown before. It was a
wonder the Thompsons were able to keep any of their flowers alive the way she loved to roll in them.

ā€œOh yeah baby. Right there. Ooooooh. Yeah... right on my back. Mmmmm. Posies!ā€
As for the two boys, they were still deep in the midst of their sibling rivalry. Adrian had transitioned into a
teenager recently but was still a bit mean to his little brother. Kyle, on the other hand, had learned how to
get back at Adrian.

ā€œThe wonderful thing about tiggers is tiggers are wonderful things! Their tops are made out of rubber, their
bottoms are made out of springs!ā€ Kyle jumped on the bed with abandon, singing at the top of his lungs.

Adrian grunted his annoyance and buried his head further under the covers.
Eventually the time came that Charlie had been dreading.

ā€œAAAHG! VOICE! This hurts! How could you let this happen to meeeee!ā€

Charlie, you were the one out there on the telescope. I didn’t make you do anything. Don’t worry, the pain
won’t last forever.

ā€œ*whimper*ā€
Charlie gave birth to a healthy, green baby girl that he named Comet. He took one look at her and decided
to name her after one of the most beautiful things he had ever seen through his telescope.

Victoria had been having some issues about the baby, uncertain how she would feel to have her husband
give birth to someone else’s child. That all changed the moment she actually held Comet.

ā€œWell, hello little one. You’re really quite tiny and helpless, aren’t you? And you’re not so different from a
normal baby, once you get past the skin and the eyes, that is.ā€ Victoria finally cracked an uncharacteristically
gentle smile, ā€œI always did want a daughter.ā€
It wasn’t that long before Comet celebrated her first birthday and became a little green toddler. Despite her
alien heritage, she seemed to inherit quite a few of Charlie’s traits, both physically and personality wise.

Either way, the entire family adored her.
ā€œSo, you were abducted by aliens and ended up giving birth to an alien kid?ā€ Zoey asked incredulously at
Comet’s birthday party.

Charlie nodded with an embarrassed little smile, ā€œYup. Isn’t she beautiful?ā€

ā€œRiiiiight.ā€ Zoey responded sarcastically, ā€œI’m surprised my sister didn’t kill you for cheating on her.ā€

Before Charlie could answer, Adrian piped up in his father’s defense, ā€œIt’s not like that, Aunt Zoey. Dad’s
telling the truth and Mom loves Comet too. Besides, I saw the UFO drop him back off.ā€

Zoey didn’t quite get it, but she did let it drop after that. If Victoria was okay with it, there wasn’t really
much she could say about it.
Despite her parents’ edict that she not go out with Matthew, Persephone went ahead with her own plans
and snuck out of the house with him. Of course, she didn’t tell him that she wasn’t supposed to see him.

ā€œIt’s really great to see you, Matthew.ā€ Persephone practically gushed at him.

ā€œHey Persephone. It’s good to see you too. Is Zack meeting us here?ā€

Persephone quickly hid her blush and shook her head, ā€œHe had something else to do.ā€

Matthew replied, ā€œAw, that sucks. I’ve heard this is a pretty neat club.ā€
The ā€˜neat’ place was Gothika’, a goth styled club new to downtown. It wasn’t exactly Persephone’s usual
scene, but she wanted to impress Matthew with how cool she was, and it was the club that all the kids at
school seemed to be talking about.
ā€œLet’s get our picture taken together.ā€ Persephone enthusiastically rushed over to the photobooth, pulling
Matthew with her. He was a bit surprised by this, but went along with it.

By the time the picture was being spit out, though, Matthew had begun to realize that there was a little
more going on here than he had expected. Even a blind man could see the way Persephone was acting was
meant for more than just friendship.
Over dinner, Matthew tried to broach the subject tactfully, ā€œPersephone, when you asked me out tonight,
were you asking me out on a *date*? You know, a romantic date?ā€

Persephone bit her lip and blushed, ā€œWell, yeah. I... I really like you a lot, Matthew. I was hoping you would
feel the same way.ā€
Matthew took a deep breath and said, ā€œLook, you’re a really sweet kid, but.. you’re a kid. Maybe someday
when you’re a little older...ā€ From the expression on her face, this wasn’t going as well as he’d hoped,
ā€œPersephone, you’re a beautiful girl, and I’m sure you’ve got a ton of guys your own age hanging all over
you. We can still be friends.ā€ He realized how lame that sounded.

Persephone gave him a heartbroken expression and responded with a meek little, ā€œOkay.ā€
Meanwhile, over in a corner of the bar, a hot poker game was taken place between Sandy Bruty, Mrs.
Crumplebottom and yours truly. While I may be an observer and scribe of what occurs with the Legacina
family, I still enjoy a little time out on the town myself.

That said, beware of Crumplebottom. She’s got a mean poker face. She cleaned me out.

I still say she was cheating, but she threatened me with her knitting needles when I demanded to see if she
had any cards up her sleeves.
After parting ways with Matthew, a dejected Persephone made her way down to the bar, ā€œI’ll take the
hardest you’ve got.ā€

The bartender raised an eyebrow and took a long look at Persephone, ā€œThat’s the whiskey, which you’re not
getting. The hardest you’re getting is a Shirley Temple.ā€

Persephone gave a heavy and forlorn sigh, ā€œI can’t even get the drink I want, let alone the man.ā€
ā€œMan troubles, eh?ā€ The bartender considered Persephone for another moment then began mixing up a
Shirley Temple, ā€œLots of movies you’ll see have people seeking advice from bartenders like we’re some sort
of free psychologist. I’m personally pursuing a computer science degree, so I’m not the best when it comes
to relations, but I can tell you this: there are other fish in the sea.ā€

Persephone looked up to the bartender as she continued.

ā€œWhoever he is, why ever it is not happening, it’s either meant to be or it isn’t. If it’s not, hey... he’s not the
last hottie on the block, no matter how it feels right now.ā€
Persephone took a sip of her drink and then took a deep breath. With all the conviction she could muster,
she said, ā€œYou’re right! There are plenty of boys out there.ā€ Taking a page from Micah’s book, she turned
and looked down the bar, ā€œHow *you* doin’?ā€

ā€œThat’s the spirit!ā€ The bartender cheered Persephone on.
The rest of the night went well enough, but when Persephone got home, the melancholy came upon her
again. Sighing, she hung the picture of Matthew and herself up on the wall. Even if he didn’t want her, part
of her still desperately wanted him.

Things did not go the way she had hoped.
Speaking of plans gone awry, across the city, Kirstial got an unexpected visitor that night.

ā€œWhat are *YOU* doing here?ā€
ā€œNo violence, please. I come in peace.ā€ Melissa Lillard held her hands out before her in a non-threatening
posture. ā€œI have something to say that you might want to hear.ā€

Kirstial gave an unladylike grunt and continued to glare at Melissa, ā€œI doubt that, but I’ll hear you out. What
do you want?ā€
ā€œNot all of the vampires in this city like bowing to Grand Master Robi’s whims.ā€ Melissa approached Kirstial
and began to speak in earnest. ā€œHe’s a power hungry misogynist who cares only about feeding his own
pleasures. He cares not for the rest of us other than that we’re his dogs to whip when he feels like it.ā€

Her interest piqued, Kirstial raised an eyebrow, ā€œAlright. How does this involve me?ā€

Melissa leaned forward in a conspiratorial manner, ā€œYou have the power to challenge him. All you would
need is to have his secret. He drinks an elixir every night that grants him greater power than the rest of us.
I have brought some of that elixir to you.ā€

ā€œNow you’re talking!ā€
Eager for a way to get back at Grand Master Robi, Kirstial took the glowing vial and looked at it closely, ā€œWill
you be able to get me more of this if I need it?ā€

ā€œOh yes. I will have to be careful, but I can get you as much as you need.ā€ Melissa eagerly watched Kirstial
examine the bottle. ā€œTry it and you’ll see what I mean.ā€
Kirstial popped the top off the vial and raised it high, ā€œBottoms up!ā€ With that, she tilted her head back and
downed the entire vial in one gulp.

A satisfied gleam settled in Melissa’s eyes.
Kirstial straightened and considered for a moment, ā€œI don’t feel anything. If you’ve fooled me..ā€ She let the
threat hang in the air.

ā€œJust give it a moment. It takes time for the magic to work.ā€
Suddenly, Kirstial’s body was wracked with a great pain, coursing from the very center of her being out to
the edges of her fingertips, ā€œAAHG! WHAT’S HAPPENING TO ME!?ā€ The very strength of her being seemed
to be bleeding out of her pores.
Unable to contain herself any longer, Melissa began to laugh, ā€œYou fool. Why the old gypsy woman and Robi
think you could possibly be a threat, I’ll never know.ā€

ā€œAAHG! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME!?ā€

ā€œJust six years of Shakespeare in the Park under my belt and I had you fooled. I should have gone to
Hollywood.ā€ And with that, she left, still chuckling to herself.
When the pain finally left and Kirstial was able to revive herself from where she had collapsed on the floor,
she realized what had been done, ā€œNO!!! All the power, all the sacrifices!!ā€

Her flesh was as warm and as healthy as it had been in her youth, long before she had become a vampire.
ā€œI can’t be mortal again! I can’t!ā€

Screaming into the night, she rampaged around her house, screaming in futility at the trick the vampires
had played upon her.
One more disaster occurred that night. While Persephone’s love life seemed to die before it could start and
Kirstial’s grand schemes seemed to be crumbling around her, Benny was trying to make a new friend.

ā€œHi there cat.ā€ Benny paused and sniffed, ā€œOr are you a dog?ā€ *sniff*sniff*
ā€œI guess it doesn’t matter. Do you wanna play, Cat? All my people are busy either sleeping or being upset
with boys or gone away to school.ā€

The ā€˜cat’ gave a warning chitter as Benny continued trying to play. ā€œCome on, what do you say? Huh huh
huh?ā€
The skunk suddenly spun around and lifted his tail, spraying a foul stench all over Benny.

ā€œROOOOOOOOWRRRF!ā€ Benny got it right in his eyes. And in his mouth, and fur and tail and... well, pretty
much everywhere. ā€œAAAHGG! THE SMELL! I didn’t think anything could smell worse than a toddler with a
stinky diaper!ā€

Poor Benny.
In the morning, before her alarm was set to go off for school, Persephone had a nightmare. Something bad
was going to happen to Brody, but before her dream would tell her what, it was gone and she was awake.
Shaken by what she had seen, she made a decision.
Even though it was early, she was going to head to college.

While they were reluctant to see their baby go, both Zoey and Christian agreed to let her take an early
admission. She was smart enough and determined enough that they knew she would be miserable if they
kept her home. They did, though, make her wait until the evening. They wanted one more day with her.
ā€œDon’t worry, Mom and Dad. I’ll write and I’ll keep an eye on Brody and Micah.ā€ Smiling for her parents,
Persephone added, ā€œYou know them. They probably need it at this point.ā€

With one more hug for Benny and a wave to her parents, Persephone got into the taxi and headed off to
Sim State. Finally, all three kids were in college.
Over on the other side of the town, Kirstial was still ranting and raving about problem At some point, she
may have actually slept, but when she awoke, she began again, beseeching the dark powers to give her
back her power.
ā€œWhy have you forsaken me!? I’ve been as evil as you wanted me to be and I’ve tried as hard as I can.
Please, please, please, help me! I can’t let it end like this, not with those Vampires winning and my brother’s
cursed offspring flourishing!ā€ Kirstial whined, pleaded, cried, cajoled and finally, begged.

ā€œI’ll do ANYTHING!ā€
The sound of boots could be heard on the steps behind her, descending into her lair.

ā€œAnything, Kirstial?ā€ The voice was silky smooth and sly.
Spinning around, she gaped at the new arrival, ā€œWh.what are *YOU* doing here?!?ā€

The mysterious man gave a wicked little smile, ā€œWell, you did say you’d do *anything*, didn’t you?ā€

Cue the dramatic music!
And that is where we leave Chapter Two!

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading and will come back for Chapter Three, where we pick up with the Generation
Three kids and their exploits in college, not to mention find out who the mysterious man is, and how that’s
going to effect Kirstial’s plans!

One last thing, please head on over to Boolprop (http://forums.boolprop.com/index.php) and vote for which
of the Legacina kids should be heir! Do we go with Brody, first born Knowledge sim who’s clueless about his
sex appeal? Or perahaps Micah, third generation Popularity sim who’s not the brightest bulb in the pack? Or
finally, Persephone, the sweet, serious Family sim who’s doing her best to keep her older brothers out of
trouble? YOU get to choose!

Until next time, my faithful readers!

The Pseudo Legacy - Chapter 2, Part 4

  • 1.
    Welcome to thefourth and final installment of chapter two in the Pseudo Legacy. At the end of part three, our founders, Taylor Legacina and his beloved Professor Kelly, had passed on, leaving behind their children and grandchildren to carry on the legacy. Zoey and Christian had patched up their troubled marriage and added a girl to the third generation. It was unclear which of the third generation children - Brody, Micah or Persephone - would become the heir for the next generation. This chapter was originally uploaded to the Sims2 Exchange on February 24, 2007.
  • 2.
    Grief lingered inthe Legacina home. Taylor and Professor Kelly, both popularity sims, were loved by pretty much everyone in the house, even little Persephone. Zoey was especially troubled. She had always counted on the guidance her parents provided her. Now the weight of the legacy was on her shoulders. Of course, Zoey and her family were not the only ones affected by Taylor’s death...
  • 3.
    The Grim Reapermade an additional stop after he helped Professor Kelly on to the afterlife. ā€œNICE PLACE YOU HAVE HERE, KIRSTIAL. THIS IS BETTER THAN THE HOLE YOU WERE LIVING IN THE LAST TIME WE SPOKE.ā€ Kirstial was startled and irritated at the unexpected visit, but knew better than to be rude to the incarnation of Death, ā€œHow nice of you to stop by, Grim.ā€ She paused and then added an impatient, ā€œWhat do you want?ā€ Well, at least she tried to be polite.
  • 4.
    ā€œI THOUGHT ITWOULD BE AMUSING TO LET YOU KNOW THAT YOU FAILED.ā€ The Grim Reaper gave a smug and disturbingly raspy chuckle. ā€œWhat on earth do you mean by that?ā€ Kirstial was getting irritated. She had been in the middle of watching ā€˜Lost’. They were going to reveal the answer to some big secret. But then again, maybe not. This was ā€˜Lost’ after all. ā€œTHE LAST SOUL YOU OWED YOUR BENEFACTOR WAS RECENTLY PICKED UP AFTER HAVING LIVED A LONG AND FULFILLING LIFE.ā€ Going in for maximum taunt, he added, ā€œHE DIED OF OLD AGE, KIRSTIAL. YOU FORFEIT THE POWER OF HIS BLOOD.ā€ ā€œNO!!!!ā€ Kirstial howled then buried her head in her hands, ā€œGAH! How could I have missed him? Are they so pathetically short lived?! This is unfair! I can’t lose like this! I’ll kill his children!ā€
  • 5.
    Looking at hislist, the Grim Reaper corrected, ā€œCHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN, YOU MEAN. BY MY COUNT, THE FAMILY LINE IS GOING STRONG AND THERE ARE NOW THREE PRIMARY GRANDCHILDREN AND TWO SECONDARY.ā€ If he had eyebrows, he would waggle them mockingly, ā€œLIKE WEEDS AND RABBITS, Y’KNOW.ā€ ā€œWhat!?ā€ Kirstial was shocked, ā€œHow are there that many grandchildren!? I took measures to see that they produced no more offspring.ā€ ā€œPLEASE DON’T MAKE ME EXPLAIN THE BIRDS AND THE BEES TO YOU, KIRSTIAL.ā€
  • 6.
    Later that evening,after a quick and angry phone call, Tamara Almassizadeh, Kirstial’s interning minion, arrived to plead her case. ā€œPlease don’t hurt me! I swear I don’t know what happened. He was mine, it was in the bag and then something happened. He went back to her even though it was something he should have never considered.ā€ Tamara had deftly kept the news of Christian and Zoey’s reunion from Kirstial’s ears, ā€œIt.. it must have been m.magic of some kind.ā€
  • 7.
    Kirstial was nonetoo pleased with her minion and did not hesitate to let the girl know, ā€œHISS! FAH! There was no magic, just your ugly face! Your incompetence is going to cost me valuable time in my mission. If you had just done your job correctly, then I would be on schedule! I should have you for dinner and bury you in the backyard!ā€ ā€œNO! Please... I.. I promise, I can do better. I know I can. Just give me a chance.ā€ Tamara pleaded desperately.
  • 8.
    Kirstial snarled andcrossed her arms, ā€œI will think about it. Maybe I’ll think of a use for you and give you a call. For now, get out of my sight.ā€ ā€œWhat about my credit hours?ā€ ā€œI SAID I would think about it! Now go before I change my mind and kill you anyway!ā€ ā€œYipe! Going now.ā€ Tamara scurried from the house with her figurative tail between her legs.
  • 9.
    ā€œWhy is itso hard to get good help?ā€ Kirstial pouted after Tamara left, her house now quiet. ā€œNothing else could possibly go wrong at this point.ā€ Oh, never speak too soon, Kirstial. Things can always get worse.
  • 10.
    Back at theLegacina homestead, it was time for an unusual occurrence: a quiet birthday. While everyone was away at school or work, little puppy Benny turned into handsome, grown-up collie Benny. ā€œWow, I got big!ā€
  • 11.
    ā€œNow that I’mbig, no more little sticky people mauling me! When I was a puppy, they could just pick me up and there was nothing I could do about it! Now I’m a big, bad dog and no one’s going to embarrass me or get my fur all sticky with mysterious baby substances any longer!ā€
  • 12.
    Yep. Benny, thebig bad guard dog of the house was never going to be mauled or manipulated by a small child again. That vow probably lasted all of two hours. Just enough time for Persephone’s nap to be over. ā€œBenny got big! Yay!ā€ ā€œNot the ear, not the ear! She’s sticky and smells like old peanut butter! Poor Benny.
  • 13.
    ā€œBrody, how didBenny get big? When we left for school, he was just a puppy, but when we got home, he was all big and stuff?ā€ Taking after his father, Micah was a bit light in the I.Q. department. ā€œAliens came down from the sky and zapped him with a ray gun that made him grow up instantly.ā€ Brody, the smart one in the family, enjoyed teasing his brother. ā€œBrody! Don’t confuse your brother.ā€ Like any mom, Zoey did what she could, but that was only so much. Under her breath she added, ā€œOr at least don’t confuse him more than he already is.ā€
  • 14.
    ā€œCome on aliens.I want to be big too. Come zap me with your grow-up ray!ā€ Micah spent the next several nights on the telescope, hoping and praying for the aliens to come zap him like they did Benny. It’s amazing how much he takes after his father.
  • 15.
    It wasn’t longbefore it was time for the littlest Legacina to have a birthday. Without hesitation, the whole party crew was called out to come to the house. ā€œSee, my daughter is radioactive too. My children have super powers and will someday save the world.ā€ Christian was proud of his kids, even if he still didn’t understand the smart-milk glow. Jan raised an eyebrow and nodded, ā€œSure Christian.ā€
  • 16.
    Despite her father’smisunderstandings, Persephone still grew up into a lovely little girl. Being the only girl in the generation, she initially dressed up like a pretty princess. That didn’t last too long, though. Especially with two older brothers in the house. After the party, she changed into something a little more practical. ā€œLook at me, I’m a monster! Rahr Rahr Rahr!ā€ It goes without saying that the party was a success, even if the party dress wasn’t.
  • 17.
    The next morningafter her birthday, Persephone continued with a ritual she had started very young. ā€œAw, Benny! Come here, time for loving.ā€ ā€œEeek! It got big. Don’t touch... wait.. oooh. That feels good. Yeah, yeah, right there. Ahhhhhh.ā€ Benny, despite his protests, actually did love the kids, and sticky or not, loved getting attention from them.
  • 18.
    With Persephone achild, it was time for one more visit from the headmaster. With both of the older boys in private school, it was only natural that they would also try and get Persephone in. ā€œThank you for inviting me over, Mrs. Legacina. Or should I say ā€˜General’.ā€ Korey Jitmakusol was a bit more socially inept than his compatriots, but the family still did their best to make nice. ā€œMrs. Legacina is fine, sir. I save the ā€˜General Legacina’ for formal occasions and people I intend to maim. Would you like a tour of our home?ā€
  • 19.
    ā€œWOOOH! Awesome room!Yeah! Rock on!ā€ Korey cheered each room with extreme enthusiasm. Brody was the unfortunate one who was drafted to give the tour, much to his irritation. Grumbling under his breath, Brody mumbled, ā€œIf he screams in my ear about the bathroom, I’m going to get mom’s explosives and blow his car up.ā€ ā€œDid you say something, Brody?ā€ ā€œNo sir. Bathroom’s right this way.ā€ ā€œOoooh, I LOVE bathrooms!ā€
  • 20.
    ā€œI’m glad youcould join us, this evening, Mr. Jitmakusol. Our family is a good, strong one. No infidelity, no explosives, no alien abductions, or even ghosts wandering the halls. No radioactive children either. Nope, nothing strange here at all.ā€ Christian shook Korey’s hand enthusiastically as he came to dinner. Zoey interrupted, ā€œChristian, honey, stop babbling and let the man eat.ā€ Despite the craziness and death threats, Persephone got into private school without a problem.
  • 21.
    All in all,life was going well in the Legacina house. Brody and Micah might tease each other constantly, but Persephone got along well with both of her brothers, bridging the rivalry that existed between the two boys. ā€œWhat are you guys doing?ā€ Brody raised an eyebrow at his siblings as they danced wildly about the room. ā€œWe’re dancing!ā€ Persephone replied happily. ā€œI can see that. But why?ā€ ā€œBecause it’s Micah’s birthday!ā€
  • 22.
    Indeed, it wastime for Micah’s birthday. ā€œWell, the aliens never came, but I’m going to get big like Brody anyway, and then he can’t tease me anymore. And I’ll be able to drive the car. Ooh, and maybe the aliens will come and hit me with the grow-up ray anyway and then I’ll be bigger than Brody! That would be AWESOME!ā€ ā€œBlow out the candles already, dweeb!ā€ Brody shouted from the crowd.
  • 23.
    Following in hisfather’s, grandfather’s AND grandmother’s footsteps, Micah became a popularity sim upon becoming a teenager. Like Professor Kelly, he had a lifetime want of having twenty best friends all at the same time. It seemed like the Legacina household was predisposed towards popularity sims. ā€œThis is an awesome party! I want to be friends with everyone here.ā€ Micah paused as he grabbed his slice of cake, ā€œI Look kinda dorky, though.ā€
  • 24.
    Dorky is somethinga trip to a dresser and a mirror can help. While it can be interesting to see what children grow up into, it may not necessarily fit their personality. ā€œAw yeah, I look good!ā€ Micah was particularly happy with his new look, ā€œHey baby. How you doin’?ā€ The party was still going on, though, so he couldn’t linger for too longer admiring himself.
  • 25.
    ā€œOh wow, Micah,you turned out really cute.ā€ Genesis gushed at Micah after he came out of the bathroom. Realizing what she said, the college placeholder blushed furiously, ā€œI.. I mean, your whole family is handsome, and of course you would turn out well. And it’s not like I’m.. er.. Oh hey. There’s Charlie. I need to go say hi.ā€ Micah blinked after her, ā€œUhm. Okay.ā€
  • 26.
    Genesis went andfound a corner to sit down in, hiding her embarrassment at gushing over a teenager. He was cute, but he was also way too young. Being a perceptive and compassionate one, Persephone wandered over and introduced herself to Genesis. ā€œHi. I’m Persephone. You’re Genesis, right? Mommy said you’re keeping our college house safe for us.ā€ Smiling at the little girl, Genesis nodded, ā€œYep, that’s me. It’s nice to meet you, Persephone.ā€
  • 27.
    ā€œYou know, it’sokay if you think Micah’s cute. I mean, he’s young now, but won’t you be the same age as him almost when he gets to school since you don’t age until we get to college?ā€ Persephone forged on ahead, offering wisdom that seemed beyond her age. Genesis blinked at her and then nodded, ā€œI guess so. But it’s still weird.ā€ She was still blushing. Persephone smiled, ā€œBesides, I hope you’re still there when I get to go to college, ā€˜cause then we could be friends. Do you want to see my dollhouse?ā€ The party ended up being a success with everyone having a great time.
  • 28.
    Now that thebrothers were both teenagers, Micah took advantage of the opportunity of the level playing field. Pulling Brody into a headlock he noogied him, ā€œHah big brother! How does it feel now that we’re both teenagers!ā€ ā€œAahg, let go of me, dork!ā€
  • 29.
    Despite his penchantfor teasing his younger brother, Brody was a true knowledge sim. He was happiest with his nose buried in a book or otherwise learning some new skill. Where other teenagers were obsessed with girls, cars and video games, all Brody ever wanted was to learn something new.
  • 30.
    Brody was oftenthe one to make sure that his siblings also excelled in school. Very often, after he finished his own homework, he would start helping them with theirs. ā€œThe variable is multiplied by the constant and then divided by the square of the hypotenuse, giving you the value that you’re looking for. See, it’s simple.ā€ ā€œBrody,ā€ Micah said with a touch of exasperation, ā€œShe’s only in first grade!ā€ ā€œIt’s never too early to learn.ā€
  • 31.
    Eventually the ghostsof the first generation founders began to make haunting visits to the main house. Taylor was seen first, looking sharp in his general’s uniform. Why do you look so sad, Taylor? ā€œOh, hey Voice. I just... I miss them all. Even the big dumb lug my daughter married. It’s hard being able to check up on them, but not really do anything other than scare them.ā€ They miss you too, Taylor. You and Professor Kelly both.
  • 32.
    Professor Kelly alsotook the time to make her presence felt. She actually came to visit more often than Taylor did, as if she wanted to make sure they were keeping the house up to her standards. ā€œMac and cheese? Who is doing the cooking around here? There’s no nutritional value there, hrmph.ā€
  • 33.
    ā€œEEEK! Grandma!?ā€ Brodyjumped back and clutched his chest as Professor Kelly scared him during one of his skilling sessions. ā€œWow! I think my stomach jumped through the roof of my mouth.ā€ Well, you are wandering around the mausoleum, Brody. You’re bound to see a ghost in there. Grinning wildly, he nodded enthusiastically, ā€œYep! Just what I was hoping for. That was AWESOME! I hope she does it again.ā€ *sigh* Knowledge sims.
  • 34.
    It was gettingclose to the time when Brody would be heading off to college, but a heir had not yet been chosen for their generation. He called a meeting with his siblings to discuss the issue. ā€œSo, the way this works is that one of us gets chosen to be the heir. We all go off to college, but only one of us comes back here to carry on the family line. The others get to go off and do other things. Kinda like Aunt Victoria. Mom got chosen to be heir and Aunt Victoria was the spare.ā€ Glancing between Micah and Persephone, he said, ā€œI haven’t really decided if I want to be heir or not. I am first born, but that doesn’t really mean anything. What do you two want?ā€
  • 35.
    Micah considered amoment, then shook his head, ā€œI don’t really want it. I mean, it sounds like a lot of responsibility. I just want to have fun and I’m kinda.. well, I’m kinda dumb. I’d probably screw things up. You guys would both do better’n me.ā€
  • 36.
    ā€œI don’t thinkit works that way, Micah. And you don’t give yourself enough credit. You would probably be just as good at it as any of us.ā€ Persephone was young, but wise for her years. She was soon going to turn into a teenager and had been thinking on this as well, ā€œI don’t know either, Brody. It’s a lot of responsibility, and there’s something else going on. Mom knows something, but hasn’t told any of us.ā€
  • 37.
    Considering for anothermoment, she said, ā€œI don’t see why this can’t wait until another day. I mean, it only has to be decided by the time you graduate, Brody. We can wait and then figure it out during college. Just because Mom knew early on she was heir doesn’t mean we have to decide early too.ā€ ā€œYou’re right, Persey. Okay, it’s decided. We wait until college.ā€
  • 38.
    With Persephone’s birthdayalso came the time for Brody to go off to college. It was going to be the last time that all three of the third generation children lived together in the Legacina home. In the afternoon before the party, the trio took the time to take a photograph for their parents.
  • 39.
    As with mostLegacina birthdays, this one was also a big party. Persephone was eager to grow up, but her parents were a bit wistful about the whole thing. Christian looked at the cake, ā€œAre you sure you don’t need me to help, sweetie?ā€ Smiling up at her father, Persephone said, ā€œI’m sure, Daddy. I’m too big for you to toss in the air anyway.ā€ Sighing, he relented, ā€œI guess so.ā€
  • 40.
    Blowing out thecandles, she twirled into teenagerhood. ā€œWhoa!ā€ ā€œAlright Persey! You turned out cute!ā€ Brody and everyone cheered her on. Persephone ended up as a Family sim, explaining her wise empathy for her family from an early age. Her lifetime want was to have six grandchildren. Even her major goal took a look at the long view of life.
  • 41.
    Still, she wasa teenager and like Micah, she decided she needed a wardrobe change. While what she grew up in wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t really her. ā€œOh yeah, this is much much better. This is definitely more me.ā€ Pausing a moment, she suddenly grinned, ā€œAnd damn I am cute. Watch out boys, here I come.ā€
  • 42.
    Having watched bothMicah and Persephone primp in the mirror, Benny decided to give it a try as well. After all, it seemed to make them happy, why wouldn’t it make a dog happy too? Oh yeah, who’s the handsome dog. Ooh. Hey, I can play with myself. Can’t catch me! Woof!ā€ Silly Benny.
  • 43.
    When the lastguest left Persephone’s birthday party, Brody made his way over to the computer. It was time to finalize his scholarships and call the taxi. With all the skilling and studying he had done through his teen years, he was well prepared for college. He was also eager to go, but there was a part of him that knew he was going to miss home.
  • 44.
    ā€œGood luck, Brody.You’re going to love college. There are cute girls everywhere and all kinds of parties all the time. Be careful of any cows you meet and don’t be scared if someone starts doing the chicken dance in front of you.ā€ Christian offered his own, odd version of sage advice. ā€œUh.. okay Dad.ā€ For her part, Zoey was trying hard to not get sentimental, ā€œ*sniff* My baby... All grown up.ā€
  • 45.
    He might beon his way to growing up, but Brody did pause to do one last childish thing. ā€œTake that, Micah! One last noogie for the road! Heheh.ā€ ā€œAaahg! Not the hair! Don’t touch the hair!ā€
  • 46.
    ā€œAlright! Let’s getthis show on the road, driver. You, me, a suitcase and a pocketful of scholarship money. Let’s do this thing!ā€ Even if he was going to miss his family, this was the moment Brody had been waiting for.
  • 47.
    Meanwhile, across townat a new club called the Merkabah, Kirstial was at a business meeting of sorts. ā€œI was wondering when you would contact me. It is only natural for the local organizations to recognize true strength and power. Your acknowledgement of such things within me will go a long way to continuing the peace in the city.ā€
  • 48.
    ā€œUh... right.ā€ MarySmith raised an eyebrow at Kirstial who sat across from her, ā€œActually, we arranged this meeting to explain how *you* had failed to follow the proper etiquette of the city and introduce yourself to the Grand Master.ā€ Hesitating, she continued, ā€œThis is also your opportunity to rectify your oversight and make the proper apologies to the Grand Master.ā€
  • 49.
    ā€œWhat?!ā€ Kirstial’s tonewas both surprised and dismissive, ā€œYou have got to be kidding me. You expect *ME* to bow down and kiss the toes of some stinky vamp who probably didn’t even have to work for his powers? I know your type. You’re pretty enough that someone decides they want to keep you around for a while. Wham Bam, Thanks for the immortality! Well, I’ll have you know that *I* made sacrifices to gain my power. You’ll find no sniveling and simpering toady in me!ā€
  • 50.
    Appearing out ofnowhere, Grand Master Robi regarded Kirstial, ā€œIs that so? Just a pretty boy and his harem of hanger ons is what you expected, isn’t it?ā€ Kirstial was nonplussed by his sudden appearance. Rising with a sneer on her lips, she said, ā€œAnd apparently that’s all I’m going to see anyway. You’re nothing.ā€
  • 51.
    ā€œNothing?ā€ Robi’s voicetook on a dangerous tone, ā€œOne does not get to be Grand Master by being ā€˜Nothing’.ā€ And with that, a surge of power leapt from his hand towards her, wrapping Kirstial in a rush of painful electricity.
  • 52.
    Not the wisestof women, Kirstial only got angry by that show of power, ā€œYou think that makes you something? Well, I’ll tell you what, mister. You’re still NOTHING. N. O. T. H. I. N. G. Do I need to spell it again?ā€
  • 53.
    ā€œKirstial Legacina, youare officially trespassing on my clan’s territory. You have insulted me and mine and are unwelcome here. Take this as a warning and flee with your life while you still can.ā€ Robi didn’t enjoy getting all high and mighty, but when he had to, he could be impressive.
  • 54.
    ā€œWhateve.... AIEEGH!ā€ Kirstialstill did not take him seriously, but this time Robi let loose with a real display of power. The energy ripped through her painfully until she collapsed and passed out. When she woke, she was in the alley behind the club and the other vampires were nowhere to be found.
  • 55.
    Back at theLegacina homestead, Brody had come home for a visit. While he was settling in to college life well, there was something to be said for home cooking. ā€œHey Mom, Dad, Dork, Persey, and Benny! I’m home!ā€
  • 56.
    ā€œBrody, you’re cheating!ā€Persephone was outraged when she caught her older brother trying to trick her during a game of chess. ā€œIt’s a family tradition, Persey. Just ā€˜cause you’re nicer than most of us doesn’t mean we won’t still try and cheat with you. Besides, it’s good experience. You’ll get more scholarship money this way.ā€ ā€œBrody, do you ever think of anything besides school?ā€
  • 57.
    That did bringup something Brody wanted to discuss with his mom. ā€œMom, I wanted to ask you about something. I’ve been staying in the dorms for a bit, y’know, getting a feel for dorm life before moving in with Genesis at the Greek house. But it’s weird. There are these girls there that just won’t leave me alone. I’m studying, they want to study with me. I’m eating, they want to eat with me. Heck, I’ve caught a couple of them trying to follow me into the guy’s bathroom. What’s up with that?ā€ ā€œBrody, hon, for someone as smart as you are, you are definitely as clueless as your father sometimes.ā€ Zoey just smiled as she ate her sandwich. ā€œHuh?ā€ ā€œYou’ll understand someday, sweetie.ā€
  • 58.
    While Brody mightnot ā€˜get it’, Micah definitely wanted it. Where one brother was smart, the other appeared to be clueless, so Micah was definitely aware of the opposite gender. He’d also give anything to have the effect on them that Brody seemed to have. ā€œSo, Meadow. Uhm. Would you like to go out sometime?ā€ ā€œHrm. Are you paying?ā€ ā€œUhm. I guess?ā€ ā€œAlright. I’ll go out with you.ā€ Yeah. Things weren’t really going that well for Micah, but he was trying.
  • 59.
    That night, heand Meadow went out to the Crypt O’Night club. This was something Meadow actually got excited about. ā€œI’ve heard this place is totally cool. This is really the happening spot. Maybe there’ll even be some cute boys here.ā€ Micah blinked at Meadow, ā€œUhm.. maybe.ā€
  • 60.
    As soon asthey were through the door, Meadow disappeared off somewhere, leaving Micah alone. He spied his Uncle Charlie getting down on the dance floor, so went over that way. ā€œHey Uncle Charlie, nice moves.ā€ ā€œHey Micah! You here on a big date?ā€ ā€œKinda. Hey, do you have any ... girl advice?ā€ Considering for a moment, Charlie answered, ā€œJust be yourself. If they don’t like you for who you are, they’re not worth the time. No matter how cute they are.ā€
  • 61.
    Micah finally foundMeadow over by the dance sphere. Working up his courage, he went up to her and said, ā€œMeadow, I’m really glad you came out with me tonight. I’ve... I’ve thought you were really cute for a long time. I was hoping you might...ā€ ā€œHold it, Legacy boy. I’m not interested, okay? I may be the easiest girl at school, but you’re not my type.ā€
  • 62.
    As Micah wasgiven the brush off by Meadow, the two were unaware that they had an audience. One of Grand Master Robi’s vampires watched nearby. Melissa Lillard considered the two teenagers and then realized that one of them was a Legacina. ā€œHmm,ā€ She thought to herself, ā€œSo this is one of the ones the gypsy is trying to protect. Apparently he is not having the best luck at the moment.ā€
  • 63.
    Melissa pondered Micah’sdilemma as she made her way over to the bar. As chance would have it, she ended up sitting down next to another Legacina. ā€œHmm, interesting. Very interesting.ā€ Victoria raised an eyebrow and looked at the pale woman, ā€œDo I know you? Can I help you with something?ā€ Melissa smiled mysteriously and shook her head, ā€œNo, but I’m going to help your family.ā€ With that, she got up and disappeared from Victoria’s view. Victoria blinked after her and muttered after her breath, ā€œFreak.ā€
  • 64.
    That night, Micahleft the club dejected and disappointed. When he got home, though, Meadow was waiting and she was instantly all over him. ā€œOh Micah, I missed you so much, sweetie-kins. It was soooo lonely after you left the club. I couldn’t bear to be without you.ā€ ā€œUh.. I thought you said I wasn’t your type.ā€ Micah was more than a little confused. ā€œPish posh, silly. You’re the one I want.ā€ And with that, Micah got the kiss he had been hoping for. Meadow obviously didn’t remember the ā€˜conversation’ she had with Melissa earlier that night at the club.
  • 65.
    Micah was notthe only one getting something he had been wanting for a long time. The day finally came when Christian earned the promotion he had been working towards his entire life. ā€œI did it! I did it! They asked me to be Captain Hero!ā€ He got out of the squad car and stood there for a moment with a dazed expression on his face, ā€œWow. It’s finally happened. I’m a hero.ā€
  • 66.
    Christian might nothave been the smartest of spouses for Zoey, and he had certainly made mistakes along the way, but his heart was always in the right place. The day he finally made Captain Hero was one of his proudest. Finally he was the man he’d always wanted to be for Zoey and the kids. ā€œWatch out Evil-Doers of Terra Lostundo, Christian Legacina, AKA Captain Hero is on the job! UP UP AND AWAY!ā€ Radiation induced powers and all.
  • 67.
    Persephone, for allher sweetness, was getting a little jealous of her two older brothers. Brody was off at college and Micah was getting to go on dates with Meadow fairly frequently. When her friend Zack called and invited her to go bowling, she jumped at the chance. ā€œSure! I’d love to. I’ll meet you there.ā€
  • 68.
    While a datewould have been better, Persephone and Zack really didn’t feel that way about each other. They were best friends, though. When they got to the bowling alley, they headed towards their lane when Persephone saw it was occupied, ā€œSomeone’s already there, Zack.ā€ ā€œHuh? Oh, no. He’s with us. That’s Matthew Hourvitz. He’s a college friend of mine.ā€
  • 69.
    Heading over, Zackintroduced Persephone to Matthew. ā€œMatt, this is Persephone. She’s a friend of mine from school.ā€ ā€œNice to meet you, Persephone.ā€ Matthew smiled brightly at the girl. Persphone was instantly dumbstruck, ā€œWow, you’re hot.ā€ Blinking, she realized what she said and then blushed furiously, ā€œUhm. I meant to say it’s really hot in here. I wish I was wearing a tank top like you.ā€ Matthew looked over at Zack with a raised eyebrow, then gave Persephone a friendly smile, ā€œYeah it is a bit warm in here.ā€
  • 70.
    Once Persephone gotover her embarrassing stumble, bowling night went really well. The trio had fun playing and proving how bad they were at bowling. Zack actually ended up in the lane a couple of times. One person who was actually a really good bowler was Mrs. Crumplebottom. She put everyone there to shame.
  • 71.
    When bowling wasover, Zack headed on home, leaving Persephone and Matthew to say their goodbyes. ā€œThis was fun, Persephone. I should head back to school. I’ve got a term paper to write by the end of the week.ā€ Matthew said with a grin. Persephone hesitated a moment, then blurted out, ā€œDo you think we could do something like this again? I mean, something fun as friends?ā€ Blinking, Matthew gave a charming smile, ā€œSure. Just give me a call. Seeya cutie.ā€ At that moment, Persephone was sure she was head over heels in love.
  • 72.
    ā€œOh mom, he’sso handsome and so mature and he bowls really well.ā€ Persephone gushed to her mother about her ā€˜love’. Zoey smiled fondly, remembering her own first crush, ā€œHmm. Is that so? Does he go to your school?ā€ ā€œNo, he’s in college. I think he’s a history major. I’m sure he’s at the top of his class and on the dean’s list and everything.ā€
  • 73.
    ā€œCollege?ā€ Zoey blinkedand then grew serious, ā€œPersephone, a college boy is a little too old for you right now. Honey, you should stick to teenagers until you get older. What about that Orlando boy? He was sweet on you and asked you out.ā€ Micah was on the phone in the background, ā€œMeadow, you just called me a half an hour ago.ā€ Sighing he said tiredly, ā€œYeah, of course I missed you too. Yeah, I guess it has been forever.ā€
  • 74.
    Persephone stared ather mother, ā€œMom, I don’t want any other boys! I love Matthew!ā€ Zoey, never the most patient person in the world, started to get exasperated, ā€œPersephone, if he’s really that important to you, then you can wait until you go to college. Until then, you are not allowed to see him. Period!ā€
  • 75.
    Despite being alevel-headed girl when it came to other people’s problems, Persephone didn’t take this edict very well. ā€œYou all hate me and want me to be miserable!ā€ With the type of angst only possible in a teenager, she fled from the dining room and ran to her room, where she listened to emo music the rest of the day.
  • 76.
    Later that day,Zoey and Christian were having a moment alone. Among other things, they were discussing Zoey’s conversation with Persephone, ā€œDo you think I was too hard on her, honey?ā€ ā€œHuh? Oh. Persephone. We’ll both talk to her in the morning and get her straightened out.ā€ Grinning slyly, he pulled her closer, ā€œLet’s focus on you and me for now.ā€ Despite the bumps and bruises their relationship had experienced along the way, the two had a very healthy and active sex life. Of course, this was something that weirded all the kids out.
  • 77.
    The next morning,they attempted to discuss the issue with Persephone together, this time letting Christian try and be the voice of reason. Gently, he said, ā€œPersephone, I know you really like this boy, but he is a lot older than you right now. It’d be best to wait until you’re in college to date him.ā€ Persephone tried to focus on her omelet and not listen to what her parents were saying. She responded with a sullen, ā€œWhatever.ā€ In an attempted to get them onto another topic of conversation, she tried a diversion, ā€œHey dad, I think there’s a baby bird in my omelet.ā€ ā€œWhat? Where!? Let me see!ā€ Christian may have had his heart in the right place, but he was easily distracted by shiny things and baby birds.
  • 78.
    Around that time,Micah decided it was time for him to head off to college. Things with Meadow were weird. Any time he was around, she got this glazed look in her eye and would hang all over every word he said. At first he really liked it, but lately it had started to feel creepy. Besides, Brody kept complaining about all the girls hanging off him at college, so it might be time to move up and get a little variety in his life.
  • 79.
    Micah was alittle sad to say goodbye to the legacy home, especially since he probably wasn’t going to be coming back. He was pretty sure smart Brody or sweet Persephone would end up as heir, leaving him to the life of a spare. Not that he really minded. ā€œSeeya house. I’m sure I’ll come visit. Take care of Mom, Dad, Persey and Benny.ā€
  • 80.
    ā€œHELLO Sim State!ā€The melancholy sadness of the goodbye only lasted a few seconds, though. Once he was at college, Micah took to his new life with gusto. ā€œThe party animal is on the scene!ā€ Maybe the life of a spare wouldn’t be so bad after all.
  • 81.
    Speaking of thelives of spares, life continued for the Thompsons. Life moved forward for them, even if they weren’t always ā€˜on camera’. Charlie had taken a little trip with some aliens a while back, and it seemed they had given him a parting gift. ā€œUhm... Honey, I... I think I’m pregnant.ā€ ā€œDon’t be silly, Charlie. That’s just gas. I told you not to eat that chili last night. I mean, who ever heard of a zombie cooking chili? Imagine the sanitation codes they must be breaking.ā€
  • 82.
    After a coupleof days of this even Victoria had to admit that Charlie was inexplicably pregnant. How and why were something she didn’t really want to consider, so she kept her grumbling to herself. For Charlie’s part, pregnancy was not the easiest of times. He found himself in a constant state of cycling hunger, exhaustion and emotional turmoil. ā€œHoney, get your face out of the lobster. You’re likely to pierce your nose that way.ā€ ā€œHuh, what?!? Oh... uhg...ā€
  • 83.
    Alegra was stillseeing to her ā€˜watchwolf’ duties with the same perseverance she had shown before. It was a wonder the Thompsons were able to keep any of their flowers alive the way she loved to roll in them. ā€œOh yeah baby. Right there. Ooooooh. Yeah... right on my back. Mmmmm. Posies!ā€
  • 84.
    As for thetwo boys, they were still deep in the midst of their sibling rivalry. Adrian had transitioned into a teenager recently but was still a bit mean to his little brother. Kyle, on the other hand, had learned how to get back at Adrian. ā€œThe wonderful thing about tiggers is tiggers are wonderful things! Their tops are made out of rubber, their bottoms are made out of springs!ā€ Kyle jumped on the bed with abandon, singing at the top of his lungs. Adrian grunted his annoyance and buried his head further under the covers.
  • 85.
    Eventually the timecame that Charlie had been dreading. ā€œAAAHG! VOICE! This hurts! How could you let this happen to meeeee!ā€ Charlie, you were the one out there on the telescope. I didn’t make you do anything. Don’t worry, the pain won’t last forever. ā€œ*whimper*ā€
  • 86.
    Charlie gave birthto a healthy, green baby girl that he named Comet. He took one look at her and decided to name her after one of the most beautiful things he had ever seen through his telescope. Victoria had been having some issues about the baby, uncertain how she would feel to have her husband give birth to someone else’s child. That all changed the moment she actually held Comet. ā€œWell, hello little one. You’re really quite tiny and helpless, aren’t you? And you’re not so different from a normal baby, once you get past the skin and the eyes, that is.ā€ Victoria finally cracked an uncharacteristically gentle smile, ā€œI always did want a daughter.ā€
  • 87.
    It wasn’t thatlong before Comet celebrated her first birthday and became a little green toddler. Despite her alien heritage, she seemed to inherit quite a few of Charlie’s traits, both physically and personality wise. Either way, the entire family adored her.
  • 88.
    ā€œSo, you wereabducted by aliens and ended up giving birth to an alien kid?ā€ Zoey asked incredulously at Comet’s birthday party. Charlie nodded with an embarrassed little smile, ā€œYup. Isn’t she beautiful?ā€ ā€œRiiiiight.ā€ Zoey responded sarcastically, ā€œI’m surprised my sister didn’t kill you for cheating on her.ā€ Before Charlie could answer, Adrian piped up in his father’s defense, ā€œIt’s not like that, Aunt Zoey. Dad’s telling the truth and Mom loves Comet too. Besides, I saw the UFO drop him back off.ā€ Zoey didn’t quite get it, but she did let it drop after that. If Victoria was okay with it, there wasn’t really much she could say about it.
  • 89.
    Despite her parents’edict that she not go out with Matthew, Persephone went ahead with her own plans and snuck out of the house with him. Of course, she didn’t tell him that she wasn’t supposed to see him. ā€œIt’s really great to see you, Matthew.ā€ Persephone practically gushed at him. ā€œHey Persephone. It’s good to see you too. Is Zack meeting us here?ā€ Persephone quickly hid her blush and shook her head, ā€œHe had something else to do.ā€ Matthew replied, ā€œAw, that sucks. I’ve heard this is a pretty neat club.ā€
  • 90.
    The ā€˜neat’ placewas Gothika’, a goth styled club new to downtown. It wasn’t exactly Persephone’s usual scene, but she wanted to impress Matthew with how cool she was, and it was the club that all the kids at school seemed to be talking about.
  • 91.
    ā€œLet’s get ourpicture taken together.ā€ Persephone enthusiastically rushed over to the photobooth, pulling Matthew with her. He was a bit surprised by this, but went along with it. By the time the picture was being spit out, though, Matthew had begun to realize that there was a little more going on here than he had expected. Even a blind man could see the way Persephone was acting was meant for more than just friendship.
  • 92.
    Over dinner, Matthewtried to broach the subject tactfully, ā€œPersephone, when you asked me out tonight, were you asking me out on a *date*? You know, a romantic date?ā€ Persephone bit her lip and blushed, ā€œWell, yeah. I... I really like you a lot, Matthew. I was hoping you would feel the same way.ā€
  • 93.
    Matthew took adeep breath and said, ā€œLook, you’re a really sweet kid, but.. you’re a kid. Maybe someday when you’re a little older...ā€ From the expression on her face, this wasn’t going as well as he’d hoped, ā€œPersephone, you’re a beautiful girl, and I’m sure you’ve got a ton of guys your own age hanging all over you. We can still be friends.ā€ He realized how lame that sounded. Persephone gave him a heartbroken expression and responded with a meek little, ā€œOkay.ā€
  • 94.
    Meanwhile, over ina corner of the bar, a hot poker game was taken place between Sandy Bruty, Mrs. Crumplebottom and yours truly. While I may be an observer and scribe of what occurs with the Legacina family, I still enjoy a little time out on the town myself. That said, beware of Crumplebottom. She’s got a mean poker face. She cleaned me out. I still say she was cheating, but she threatened me with her knitting needles when I demanded to see if she had any cards up her sleeves.
  • 95.
    After parting wayswith Matthew, a dejected Persephone made her way down to the bar, ā€œI’ll take the hardest you’ve got.ā€ The bartender raised an eyebrow and took a long look at Persephone, ā€œThat’s the whiskey, which you’re not getting. The hardest you’re getting is a Shirley Temple.ā€ Persephone gave a heavy and forlorn sigh, ā€œI can’t even get the drink I want, let alone the man.ā€
  • 96.
    ā€œMan troubles, eh?ā€The bartender considered Persephone for another moment then began mixing up a Shirley Temple, ā€œLots of movies you’ll see have people seeking advice from bartenders like we’re some sort of free psychologist. I’m personally pursuing a computer science degree, so I’m not the best when it comes to relations, but I can tell you this: there are other fish in the sea.ā€ Persephone looked up to the bartender as she continued. ā€œWhoever he is, why ever it is not happening, it’s either meant to be or it isn’t. If it’s not, hey... he’s not the last hottie on the block, no matter how it feels right now.ā€
  • 97.
    Persephone took asip of her drink and then took a deep breath. With all the conviction she could muster, she said, ā€œYou’re right! There are plenty of boys out there.ā€ Taking a page from Micah’s book, she turned and looked down the bar, ā€œHow *you* doin’?ā€ ā€œThat’s the spirit!ā€ The bartender cheered Persephone on.
  • 98.
    The rest ofthe night went well enough, but when Persephone got home, the melancholy came upon her again. Sighing, she hung the picture of Matthew and herself up on the wall. Even if he didn’t want her, part of her still desperately wanted him. Things did not go the way she had hoped.
  • 99.
    Speaking of plansgone awry, across the city, Kirstial got an unexpected visitor that night. ā€œWhat are *YOU* doing here?ā€
  • 100.
    ā€œNo violence, please.I come in peace.ā€ Melissa Lillard held her hands out before her in a non-threatening posture. ā€œI have something to say that you might want to hear.ā€ Kirstial gave an unladylike grunt and continued to glare at Melissa, ā€œI doubt that, but I’ll hear you out. What do you want?ā€
  • 101.
    ā€œNot all ofthe vampires in this city like bowing to Grand Master Robi’s whims.ā€ Melissa approached Kirstial and began to speak in earnest. ā€œHe’s a power hungry misogynist who cares only about feeding his own pleasures. He cares not for the rest of us other than that we’re his dogs to whip when he feels like it.ā€ Her interest piqued, Kirstial raised an eyebrow, ā€œAlright. How does this involve me?ā€ Melissa leaned forward in a conspiratorial manner, ā€œYou have the power to challenge him. All you would need is to have his secret. He drinks an elixir every night that grants him greater power than the rest of us. I have brought some of that elixir to you.ā€ ā€œNow you’re talking!ā€
  • 102.
    Eager for away to get back at Grand Master Robi, Kirstial took the glowing vial and looked at it closely, ā€œWill you be able to get me more of this if I need it?ā€ ā€œOh yes. I will have to be careful, but I can get you as much as you need.ā€ Melissa eagerly watched Kirstial examine the bottle. ā€œTry it and you’ll see what I mean.ā€
  • 103.
    Kirstial popped thetop off the vial and raised it high, ā€œBottoms up!ā€ With that, she tilted her head back and downed the entire vial in one gulp. A satisfied gleam settled in Melissa’s eyes.
  • 104.
    Kirstial straightened andconsidered for a moment, ā€œI don’t feel anything. If you’ve fooled me..ā€ She let the threat hang in the air. ā€œJust give it a moment. It takes time for the magic to work.ā€
  • 105.
    Suddenly, Kirstial’s bodywas wracked with a great pain, coursing from the very center of her being out to the edges of her fingertips, ā€œAAHG! WHAT’S HAPPENING TO ME!?ā€ The very strength of her being seemed to be bleeding out of her pores.
  • 106.
    Unable to containherself any longer, Melissa began to laugh, ā€œYou fool. Why the old gypsy woman and Robi think you could possibly be a threat, I’ll never know.ā€ ā€œAAHG! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME!?ā€ ā€œJust six years of Shakespeare in the Park under my belt and I had you fooled. I should have gone to Hollywood.ā€ And with that, she left, still chuckling to herself.
  • 107.
    When the painfinally left and Kirstial was able to revive herself from where she had collapsed on the floor, she realized what had been done, ā€œNO!!! All the power, all the sacrifices!!ā€ Her flesh was as warm and as healthy as it had been in her youth, long before she had become a vampire. ā€œI can’t be mortal again! I can’t!ā€ Screaming into the night, she rampaged around her house, screaming in futility at the trick the vampires had played upon her.
  • 108.
    One more disasteroccurred that night. While Persephone’s love life seemed to die before it could start and Kirstial’s grand schemes seemed to be crumbling around her, Benny was trying to make a new friend. ā€œHi there cat.ā€ Benny paused and sniffed, ā€œOr are you a dog?ā€ *sniff*sniff*
  • 109.
    ā€œI guess itdoesn’t matter. Do you wanna play, Cat? All my people are busy either sleeping or being upset with boys or gone away to school.ā€ The ā€˜cat’ gave a warning chitter as Benny continued trying to play. ā€œCome on, what do you say? Huh huh huh?ā€
  • 110.
    The skunk suddenlyspun around and lifted his tail, spraying a foul stench all over Benny. ā€œROOOOOOOOWRRRF!ā€ Benny got it right in his eyes. And in his mouth, and fur and tail and... well, pretty much everywhere. ā€œAAAHGG! THE SMELL! I didn’t think anything could smell worse than a toddler with a stinky diaper!ā€ Poor Benny.
  • 111.
    In the morning,before her alarm was set to go off for school, Persephone had a nightmare. Something bad was going to happen to Brody, but before her dream would tell her what, it was gone and she was awake. Shaken by what she had seen, she made a decision.
  • 112.
    Even though itwas early, she was going to head to college. While they were reluctant to see their baby go, both Zoey and Christian agreed to let her take an early admission. She was smart enough and determined enough that they knew she would be miserable if they kept her home. They did, though, make her wait until the evening. They wanted one more day with her.
  • 113.
    ā€œDon’t worry, Momand Dad. I’ll write and I’ll keep an eye on Brody and Micah.ā€ Smiling for her parents, Persephone added, ā€œYou know them. They probably need it at this point.ā€ With one more hug for Benny and a wave to her parents, Persephone got into the taxi and headed off to Sim State. Finally, all three kids were in college.
  • 114.
    Over on theother side of the town, Kirstial was still ranting and raving about problem At some point, she may have actually slept, but when she awoke, she began again, beseeching the dark powers to give her back her power.
  • 115.
    ā€œWhy have youforsaken me!? I’ve been as evil as you wanted me to be and I’ve tried as hard as I can. Please, please, please, help me! I can’t let it end like this, not with those Vampires winning and my brother’s cursed offspring flourishing!ā€ Kirstial whined, pleaded, cried, cajoled and finally, begged. ā€œI’ll do ANYTHING!ā€
  • 116.
    The sound ofboots could be heard on the steps behind her, descending into her lair. ā€œAnything, Kirstial?ā€ The voice was silky smooth and sly.
  • 117.
    Spinning around, shegaped at the new arrival, ā€œWh.what are *YOU* doing here?!?ā€ The mysterious man gave a wicked little smile, ā€œWell, you did say you’d do *anything*, didn’t you?ā€ Cue the dramatic music!
  • 118.
    And that iswhere we leave Chapter Two! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading and will come back for Chapter Three, where we pick up with the Generation Three kids and their exploits in college, not to mention find out who the mysterious man is, and how that’s going to effect Kirstial’s plans! One last thing, please head on over to Boolprop (http://forums.boolprop.com/index.php) and vote for which of the Legacina kids should be heir! Do we go with Brody, first born Knowledge sim who’s clueless about his sex appeal? Or perahaps Micah, third generation Popularity sim who’s not the brightest bulb in the pack? Or finally, Persephone, the sweet, serious Family sim who’s doing her best to keep her older brothers out of trouble? YOU get to choose! Until next time, my faithful readers!