Chapter Nineteen

However much we love the ocean, it was nice to get inland for a while. I had my first taste of fishing shortly after we arrived, and already landed a whopper!

The scenery is truly remarkable here. It is so nice to be among the greenery like this, as well as sample the local delicacies.

I grew a little alarmed at the fact that tourists were allowed to play with axes, however. Still, the campground is supervised, so there should be little problem; none of us wish to be murdered after all. I must say though, playing with them is fun!

I was pleasantly surprised to find the tour guide still out in the evening, but I wasn’t complaining. I decided to book us on a nature trail, and made plans to take advantage of the other two while we were there.

I finally got to spend the night in a tent. Although sleeping was the last thing on our minds…

“So this is what it’s like in a tent, eh?” I remarked with a cheeky grin.

Oh, we may be older now, but there’s plenty of life in us yet!

The one mistake we made was to travel during Autumn – up here it’s in the grip of Winter. I needed to thaw out, and Lore needed to make sure she didn’t turn bluer than she already was – I actually grew worried about her, remembering that she’s a cold-blooded creature. We’ll both need to wrap up during our stay here.

That didn’t stop us indulging in a spot of log-rolling though, after it warmed up a little. It was about one-all before we finished – and I noticed that she kept her legs when she fell into the water. Given that she’s living among humans, I have to say that’s a good thing.

I had never experienced a massage before, and I found myself with the wish to learn how it was done. Luckily the masseur was only too happy to teach me, and I started to wonder if we should buy a table once we get back home.

While Lore was learning the art of massage, I tried out the sauna. You wouldn’t think something like this would be beneficial or relaxing, but it’s both. I would recommend it to anyone, although you do need a shower afterwards.

We met with the creature known as Bigfoot later on, and it was my turn to try my hand at fishing. It was a far cry from just diving into the water, but this is much more convenient, and you also get to chat with others partaking in the same activity. The Bigfoot introduced himself as Andre, and was incredibly pleasant.

Wow, look what I caught! I thought we couldn’t catch golden trout with our limited fishing skills, but both Lore and I managed to catch one! This is getting mounted back home without a doubt; to eat it would be sacrilege.

We made a return trip to the spa to recharge a little. Lore needed another massage, while I treated myself to a soak in the spring.

These local people are a curious folk. It was interesting to learn of the different greetings they used though.

We also learned another way to dance. It was another, more seasoned tourist that we found dancing in this way, although a local woman joined us later on.

We visited Andre for a second time, and Teddy decided to kick a little ball between us. Andre was just as good with his feet, and seemed to enjoy the game as much as we did.

Andre grew very interested about my way of life among these humans, and was asking me all sorts of questions. I gave my reasons for leaving the ocean, and admitted that I had led a very fulfilling life since coming to live on dry land.

It was him who asked to come back with us. It seemed he looked up to me as an inspiration or something like that; he saw how content I had become and wanted a taste of that himself. I must admit, it will be refreshing to have around someone who’s in the same position I once was; in fact I’m the one now doing the teaching.

He seemed to settle well enough when we returned home. Teddy was just pleased to have another excuse to remodel the house a little, while I was happy to have a friend who knows how I used to feel when I first stepped ashore.

Chapter Eighteen

I woke before Lore did today, and decided to while away some time digging in the dirt. She found two treasure chests and two maps; I found three maps and a little Tiki idol. Something tells me we’ll need some shelves to put some of these ornaments, like that blue vase I brought with me. It would look better there than on the desk.

We may be old timers now, but that doesn’t stop us having some close time together. Lore’s love of sunbathing paid off too; I wondered how she’d look with a tan.

The triplets grew from kittens to cats today. We’d been wondering whether to keep Oceana…

Ariel…

…or Aquarius. At least this time it’s easy to tell the cats apart, even though Oceana and Aquarius look very similar. He has a thicker coat, and Oceana has a different eye colour.

All three of them are adorable, though. It was only a phone call from a certain young man that decided the matter in the end.

He was very insistent that we kept Aquarius. I had noticed the amount of time he’d spent with him during his teenage years, and Dylan has a way of making it very hard to say no to him.

Believe it or not, I really hate this part. You can’t not get attached to them all, even though you know you have to give some of them away. What I can suggest though, is that Darya takes them in when she leaves. I’m sure she’ll give them a good home, whether or not she stays with Steve.

With the five cats reduced to three, and the twins now away at University, things had quietened down considerably. We had some time to ourselves – a lot of time, and it got me in the mood for a little chat.

“So,” I began, “Any idea what you’d like to do, now we’re alone again?”

“Yes,” I replied, a smile slowly spreading across my lips as I realised my learning wasn’t quite over, “I’d like to see more of this world. I came to learn more about it, but I’ve heard there’s much still yet to see.”

I grinned in reply as I slapped her leg.

“I was hoping you’d say that,” I smiled, “Well, I’ve found these maps, and it’d be a shame to let them go to waste.”

A new found excitement welled within at the prospect as we began to make plans.

“I’ve been thinking, in fact,” I said, “We could do with buying a holiday home somewhere. It’d be nice for the twins to have a proper honeymoon if they get lucky enough.”

I frowned in puzzlement as I turned back to him. With all I’d learnt through the years, it became apparent that I’d missed one or two details.

“What’s a honeymoon?” I asked.

I smiled sadly as the one regret in my life began to rear its head.

“Something we couldn’t manage at the time,” I began carefully, “It’s a traditional holiday for newly-weds. We can certainly afford to treat them, make sure they don’t miss out like we did.”

“That’s a very nice idea,” I smiled, “Maybe we can visit the different areas first, find out which would be the better spot.”

“Now that’s a good idea,” I smiled. As we rose from our seats, I scooped her into my arms as we finalised the little details.

“Have I told you lately that I love you?”

I chuckled into his ear as he pulled me closer.

“Have I told you lately that I love you too?” I grinned in reply.

Raquel has made a habit of inviting herself inside lately. I’m not sure why… although I have the funny feeling it involves a cat called Pisces. I knew I’d forgotten something…

I felt I needed a change of clothes, and thought to buy some more suitable attire for our holiday. Teddy made very subtle hints about sleeping under the stars, bringing up the time I had to sleep in a tent because I couldn’t afford a bed. I did warn him that one didn’t sleep too well in a tent, although I did admit that the experience itself was very pleasant, and worth repeating on the basis that, this time, I had a choice. So we booked a mountain holiday and chose to stay at a campsite.

When I returned from the shops, I called the adoption service so I could deliver my promise to Raquel, and hand over Pisces to her. She and her new cat remained in the house for a while, and on noting the shops were still open, all this talk of cats reminded me of one more thing I needed to do.

Namely buy Aquarius a mate. I chose a Ragdoll I named Amphitrite, after the sea goddess and consort of Poseidon. I learned well of my mistake with Hydra – I will never name a cat after a fierce creature ever again.

Amphi really is a darling, and her laid back manner makes a refreshing change from the hyperactive cats darting about the house. She even gets on well with strange animals – that has to be a good sign.

With everything now taken care of, it was time for us to leave. My lip curled in disdain at the thought of leaving our house in the care of that nanny, but pets are easier to look after than children. Although I hear there’s an intelligent creature in the mountains that is very friendly, and is even open to new surroundings like I was. It would be wonderful to meet with someone else in the same position I started in, and if he wishes to come back with us, so much the better. Since this is but the first of our travels, I would feel far happier letting him stay with the cats next time.

Chapter Seventeen

I might’ve known that was why Darya had such a problem with her outfit. Admittedly it does suit her though. I was just glad to get some proper shoes on my feet and slip into some denim.

I chose a degree in maths, and was met with my first paper. I had barely finished before the phone rang; I nearly jumped out of my chair in anticipation as I knew exactly who it would be. Sure enough, Mum called with their verdict – it was like being back at school and hoping to be picked for the football team, although now it was worse as there was much more at stake.

I squealed in delight when she said they’d picked me! Everyone else was in bed, so I had to hope neither phone nor excited eighteen year old woke them, but I couldn’t help myself! If I had problems sleeping before, there was no chance for me now, I was so happy!

My mouth fell open on the sight of Jackie the next day. She’d fancied a change too, and even in her pyjamas she looked amazing! Not that she needed make-up, but what a difference it made. What with getting to spend some quality time with my parents once we leave, and now with this lovely lady in my life, things really couldn’t get any better. Okay, we’re not officially an item yet, but thankfully I know it’s just a matter of time.

Darya chose to study biology, and got to work on her own paper this morning while I served breakfast. I can understand why Mum likes it so much; in fact she’s been passing on some tasty sounding recipes. I’m looking forward to trying them out, and since I’ve been reading up on cooking already, I can be safe in the knowledge that I won’t poison anybody.

It seems it’s not just Darya and I who enjoy a quiet game of chess. In fact it’s got to the point where we have to bag it before anyone else does. It’s great to challenge someone else though, even with my sister finally playing fair.

Darya moans about the people who keep barging into our house. Although I agree that some, like that coach guy, are definitely unwelcome, I live in hope that they won’t all be that bad. That guy dressed as a llama drove her crackers when he tore into our domain, even though he’s clearly a sports nut like she is.

It did get a little tiresome when he kept chanting the same thing over and over. He kept running through the house looking for an audience, even when it was time for dinner. I just shrugged as I worked, seeing it as a chance to try out Mum’s prawns on a wider audience.

Just like her though, my first attempt reduced them to charcoal. With a guest in the house too; yeah, that was pretty humiliating.

He was good with it though. You could still taste the fish under the overly crispy outer layer, that was the important thing. We ended up in quite a nice chat over dinner while the others were at lectures.

He may have been loud and eager for attention, but he was also likeable and easy to talk to. For someone as quiet as me that has to be a good thing; it’s frustrating not being able to strike up a conversation. I’m hoping this spell at Uni will be able to bring me out of my shell a little, but it’s not easy going.

I finally got a chance to tell Jackie how great she looks tonight. She seems just as modest as me on that front – maybe we can bring out each other. I know one thing for sure though; I’m growing increasingly tired of being asked if I’m meant to have brown or black hair. Time to fix that, I think.

That’s better! Pretty stupid to have to dye your hair the colour you were meant to be born with, but that’s how it goes I guess. I wonder what Mum and Dad are up to these days…

Chapter Sixteen

As told by Darya and Dylan Paul

I have to admit, I’m getting a little nervous. I’ve been getting on really well with Steve, and we’ve got pretty close, but I have no idea about this romance thing. Mum passed on some advice she got from a friend of hers; I felt pretty stupid trying it out, but if it worked for her it can work for me!

I went bright red when Dad told me Jackie really liked me. He seemed very keen to play matchmaker, and suggested I give her a call. I don’t think he realises I don’t know her that well, although that’s easily fixed.

Actually, now I think about it – she is a nice girl! I told her I was going to Uni soon, and when she said she was too, my heart skipped a beat. I really hope something can develop now, especially with an extra chance to know her properly, in person rather than over the phone.

In the meantime, things still need fixing. I smiled expectantly when Mum told me – yet again – to be careful I didn’t get fried. I just turned to her with a reassuring grin, and she just smiled and went on her way. I haven’t been bitten yet by an angry piece of machinery, and I don’t intend to start now.

Poseidon died today. His now orphaned son was crying his head off, which despite them just being animals, got to me a little. It just made me realise, at some point I’ll have to face this with my own parents. I’m not sure how I feel about that if I’m honest. Death comes to us all eventually, but it doesn’t make it any easier to deal with when you’re the one left behind – I only had to watch the way Neptune was yowling to see that.

Cliché maybe, but life still goes on. Fantasia needed to learn to shake a paw, and both Dylan and I were hoping for her to get promoted. Knowing where Dylan most likely was, it was down to me to teach her.

All I wanted to do was practice at the chessboard, and I ended up maxing my logic! Can’t be bad, especially given that Darya hogged the block toy when we were little – I knew I’d catch up eventually.

I’ll freely admit I go all mushy over kittens. They’re just so cute! I’m getting on pretty well with Aquarius already. I do hope I can come back here when the time comes; I’d love to raise some kittens myself. That and Dad’s drafting table is looking very nice…

If he can max out his creativity on that thing, surely I can too. I’d love for him to be able to show me the ropes.

Mum’s friend Raquel turned up just tonight. We had quite an insightful chat, when she’d stopped admiring my features that is. I have to admit it’s flattering, but come on, looks aren’t everything! I hope people realise that I’m just as nice on the inside as I plainly am outside.

Later on the taxi arrived to take us away to start a new life at Uni. Can’t wait to get started!

Adios folks! I know who’s gonna be waiting there for me, can’t wait to see him again! Hopefully I’ll get a better outfit too.

Then again… oh well, at least it’s not a kimono this time. Get what Dylan ended up with though; he looks like a tourist! And what’s with the footwear? Who wears socks with their sandals?!

Steve seems like a pretty cool guy. I kept a watchful eye on my sister though, when she started playing punch-ups with Jackie. Thankfully she didn’t smack her like she did Dad – he must have really made a difference.

I felt so happy when Jackie made a move. I would have done it myself, but I was a little nervous – she’s really blossomed. Something of a hedonist, which I don’t mind too much – we can’t all be the intense type. She’s lovely though, and to think something is starting to happen now just makes me so happy.

Steve confessed that he’d like a family some day; which is cool, although I’m not sure how I feel about that for now. So long as he doesn’t push too far too soon, we’ll be fine. He’s incredibly shy though, more than Dylan and me. I noticed to my delight that he’s also a neat-freak; that’s one more worry off my mind.

In the meantime though, after some militant goon dressed in sportswear insisted we work out, and after choosing our courses, I just had to drag Dylan out to the shops, for both our sakes.

I couldn’t agree fast enough; she didn’t end up too bad with that suit outfit, but I got sick of looking like a tourist when I’m not one. As for the sandals – eeeww! I didn’t have a problem with my image until then, but thinking about it, my hair’s starting to bug me. Not the style but the colour; you may be able to tell from my eyebrows, but it’s meant to be black. How it turned out a funny brown colour is beyond me, but it needs fixing at some point. In the meantime we both have more pressing concerns; I hear Mum and Dad have decided which of us will go back to them after Uni. Just the wondering is driving me crazy, although the comfort is that they had a hard time choosing. It doesn’t stop the churning in my stomach though…