Fish Out Of Water

Chapter Twenty

2009-02-12T11:46:00.000-08:00

As told by Dylan Paul and Jackie Stanley

Darya seemed pretty nonchalant when I told her our parents’ verdict. She went on to warn me that I’d have to watch them go at some point, confessing that she’d seen Neptune mourn his father when he died. While I was glad to see there is actually a caring side to her, I reminded her that the main thing would be spending time with them before that happened. She just shrugged and went on her way – I sense an underlying fear of death, if I’m honest. Whether it’s the actual dying or having to watch I’m not sure, but she seems to forget it’s not about how the story ends, it’s making the most of the preceding moments.

Dylan is so romantic – he decided to give me a musical reception when I woke this morning. It’s funny how different the twins are; there seems to be a classic light and dark story going on with these two. While Dylan has an affectionate streak a mile wide and is more receptive of strangers…

… Darya is more intense and constantly grumbles about the people charging through our house. To be honest I don’t blame her, especially with the streakers, but some of these folks are amicable enough if she gives them a chance.

Even Steve gets on well with Edwin, and he’s incredibly shy. Mind you, Edwin seems to have a knack for bringing people out of themselves; Dylan mentioned that he’d worked his magic on him too.

Dylan and I both heaved a sigh of relief when she finally got talking to him.

“Oh, she’s a good enough girl when you give her a chance,” I smiled at Jackie, “Just don’t tick her off!”

Steve found that out too, when she finally felt brave enough to step their relationship up a notch.

I couldn’t help but allow the biggest, soppiest grin to spread across my face as I watched them. I’m a terrible romantic, I’ll freely admit – even when Jackie is usually the one to make the moves.

“Dylan!!”

My smile took on a different manner as I recognised the tone in her voice.

“What is it this time?” I asked, feigning a cracking of the knuckles as I turned to face her.

“Three guesses,” I grumble as I thumb towards the room I recently left, “That thing’s useless!”

Not for me it isn’t! Although the picture that forms in my head every time I fix the shower, as I recall Mum telling me her stories about this very thing, never fails to make me chuckle while I work. I’ve already found out through swimming in the sea, that one thing I didn’t inherit from her was her fish tail. Things would be so awkward if I did – poor woman. Curiously enough, even though she didn’t pass on the scales, she did her amphibian qualities, and both Darya and I tend to add cooking salt to the bath before we use it. Just goes to show; we may look normal, but there’s things like that to serve a reminder of what really lies beneath.

I’m comparatively easy to figure out though. For all her dark attire and gloomy outlook, Darya gets pulled to the easel an awful lot – to the point where she’s now a master artist. I hope Steve knows what he’s getting into with her; she’s a tough one to handle, and I’m saying this as her twin brother.

Just when we were settling nicely in our uni house, the next day we received an unwelcome visitor. Larry the cow mascot showed up, and started flirting with everyone – including me!

Jackie was practising on the easel at the time – it was about then I became grateful that things hadn’t got that heavy between us yet. Steve wasn’t so lucky when Larry tried his luck with Darya.

He was furious! Even though she turned him down, Steve launched into a slapping frenzy – which, I have to admit, I was secretly pleased to see by this point. I’m normally tolerant of the people we meet here, but this cow guy was quickly wearing my patience.

I retreated outside to play catch with Steve, but even there I wasn’t safe. Well, I was, but the same couldn’t be said for Darya. When the flirting didn’t work, he just started shoving people about for no reason – even Dylan!

By now, he had literally pushed me too far.

“That’s it,” I snapped, “I don’t know who you think you are, but this is our home and I’m not going to put up with your crap anymore!”

“In short,” Darya added, “P*** off before I find the steak knife!”

She had more bearing than me; he soon scarpered, thank heavens. But she wasn’t finished.

“Right, Edwin or not, we’re locking the f***ing doors!” she screamed as she marched off.

I nursed my brow as I watched her go. Of course I agreed, but looking between Steve and her after that, I couldn’t help wondering how much damage had really been done.

As the evening drew in, I decided to cool off by having a dig in the front garden. The atmosphere inside was already getting strained, and I had frustrations of my own to work from my system. I knew one thing for sure; if I never saw that cow again it’d be too soon.

Chapter Nineteen

2008-11-11T10:45:00.000-08:00

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

2008-10-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

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…

Chapter Fifteen

2008-10-01T03:54:00.000-07:00

It had to happen sooner or later. The minute Teddy mentioned ghosts back in the day, and now with our first death in the family, I should have expected something like this at some point.

It looks like Teddy may get his wish after all. Speaking of which, even though I’m now older, he is still as affectionate as ever – not that he has much longer to go before he ages too.

After that manic episode when the twins were little, the pace has slowed considerably. We have more time to spend together, and still enjoy a chat on the beach while watching the waves kiss the sand.

I have lived so long already, and now my mortality is catching up with me, I can honestly say I have no regrets. The best thing I could have done was leave the sea; I have learned so much since living here among humans, and even raised two adorable children. I have never felt happier in my life than I do right now; I am more fulfilled now than all those centuries spent in the ocean.

What a way to see your old pet again! Why she had to hiss at me like that I don’t know – shock aside though, that was awesome! I’d always wanted to see something like this; how fascinating!

(We won’t talk about the fact that she didn’t give me the chance to retreat to a bathroom before getting me again…)

I have to admit; I get a little nervous whenever Dylan starts fixing electric items like the computer. Not because I fear he’d break it further, I know he wouldn’t, but I’ve heard that people can get electrocuted while they work. Whenever I voice my concerns though, he just flashes me that big grin of his and promises me he’ll be fine – and he always is. I do admire the way he works so professionally with the machines I have always wrestled with.

He always finds the time to play with us, too. I certainly wouldn’t dream of favouring one over the other, although admittedly, when faced with the younger version of someone you’ve always been so fond of, it is very hard to not do so.

Darya has endearing qualities of her own. She is very active, and loves to burn off her surplus energy on the football set she bought herself. Sometimes she plays alone, other times she invites her brother to join her. It is so nice to see them get on so well…

… even when she decides she’d rather noogie him instead. He’s a good boy though, and puts up with it.

Dylan: Ow! Knock it off! What’d I do this time, apart from be in the wrong place?

Darya: Oh nothing, I just felt like it.

Dylan: When don’t you?!

My time finally came today. Time to retire, kick back and enjoy the golden years with my darling wife. Oh, and something else I’ve been meaning to do for a while:

“Honestly, it pays to be nicer,” I explained, “How do you expect to stay in a relationship or make friends if you’re mean to everyone?”

To my relief, she admitted I had a point. Hopefully she’ll be better with Dylan from now on.

I got so lost in a loving moment with Lore, I hadn’t noticed my old friend Jackie had been brought home again.

“It’s cool, don’t mind me!” she grinned, “I was looking for Dylan, actually…”

“Oh, really?” I grinned, before looking around. I found him eventually, in his favourite spot – and a fond smile crept upon my face when I noticed he had company.

Given how quiet we both are, it was great to see him making friends. I never got the young man’s name, but he was someone else brought home from school.

We heard the sound of more tiny feet the next day – and I got a fright on seeing just how many more there were. Fantasia had given birth to triplets; two girls I named Oceana and Ariel, the latter in honour of their late grandmother, and a boy I named Aquarius. Oceana is the one who seems to have a sheen to her coat, rather than the fluffy appearance of the others – and once again, they’re all exactly the same in terms of personality. With the unusual appearance of their mother, I can’t help but wonder how they will turn out as they mature, but in the meantime we will need to reserve judgment on which one to keep.

I’m more concerned with another problem; which of the twins will be staying with us when they finish University? It’s not that long now until they leave, and they both seem very keen on the proposition we had for them. We’ve both been agonising for a while over this dilemma, and since they both wish to return it’s down to us to choose one. It may have to depend on the partner they end up with at this rate.

Chapter Fourteen

2008-09-30T10:54:00.000-07:00

As told by Darya and Dylan Paul

Well, hello there sexy! Aren’t you just the cutest thing? You’ll have no trouble finding a likely vi – erm, lad will you?

That stupid outfit I grew into won’t help though. I can’t believe I ended up with a kimono. That’s got to go for a start. It’s a good job we have so much in the bank – I’m sure they won’t mind if I pop out to get myself a makeover, I know I need it. This hair is just not me, and I need some make-up too…

Aw, you wanna play? Don’t you worry; I’m pre-programmed to be gentle, especially with an old timer like your good self.

So long as you promise not to let your claws slip into my bare skin, of course. It’s a little sensitive you know, especially from the salty water I’ve just been swimming in.

I can’t believe those two. All that money they have, and they still say I can only get a change on my own cash. Still, they also said it would be a good chance to get my foot in the door, and I also happened to notice that the University offers scholarships to hard workers… Was I complaining about getting work? Not at all!

We may be well off, but there’s nothing like the satisfaction of earning your own money. Especially when it’s something you really want to do, and there’s extra Uni funds to be had from doing well. Thankfully we both found what we were looking for.

Cats may be cleaner than dogs, but they still make a mess of the litter tray. Mum said she’d toilet trained one of them, but the dumb animal still uses the tray instead. The maid takes too long to clean up too; I’d sooner do it myself.

Whoa! That wasn’t meant to happen! Fixing up a car isn’t quite as easy as I’d thought. I’ll get there though, and I’ll have a nice shiny set of wheels for a fraction of the cost of buying new.

With us now both working, it was off to the shops to celebrate. I bumped into this guy when I came out of the changing booth, who said he’d seen my parents around before.

After an interesting little chat, I got the rest of me fixed up. That’s much better.

One down, one to go! Now the hard part’s over, it’s just a matter of time before this baby looks good as new!

As told by Lorelei and Teddy Paul

I just knew things were too good to be true. During a friendly game of punch-ups, Darya smacked me hard.

I quickly made a mental note to give her some lessons in courtesy when I got a little older. As it stands she’s not taking much notice.

She brought home Steve after school, and he hung around while she worked. Those two get on really well, which is good – they both seem to have something against Dylan for some reason, which isn’t so good. Both of them seem to have got it into their heads that he’s not so manly, which I found to be pretty harsh.

I couldn’t help the triumphant grin on my face when I noticed those two getting cosy in the front room. I decided to leave them to it, and save the “I told you so” for later.

I hope Dylan gets lucky with someone later on; he’s such a nice young man. Jackie seems to think so too, so she tells me…

Our children are climbing the career ladder as quickly as we did, and Dylan soon reached the top; we’re both so proud of them. Time continues to tick by, and as the twins grow older, so, finally, do I.

The last of my powers in the water have now gone. My legs stay legs when wet, and I’m feeling a little weaker than I used to. Overall though, I seem to have aged pretty well; I had no idea what to expect, but so far I feel barely any different to when I was blessed by eternal youth. If anything I feel happier, and that’s the most important thing.

Chapter Thirteen

2008-09-26T09:22:00.000-07:00

Dylan brought home this girl called Tina today. Once again it was straight to the chessboard, and it was nice to see him playing with someone other than his family.

Neptune reached the peak of his career tonight. I didn’t expect any less to be honest; he’s just as smart as his parents. Speaking of which, Ariel was looking more like she’d had enough of work, so I decided to retire her. She has certainly earned her rest.

The twins grew older, and again we didn’t have time to celebrate. They weren’t concerned however, they seemed happy enough to age so well.

I was touched when Darya said she wanted to work among the fishes, and that she wanted more insight into my side of the family. I am a little concerned that our growing fortune seems to be getting to her head, though. I hope she won’t allow money to govern her way of thinking.

I had to smile when she found us getting cosy in the kitchen. I suppose it’s to be expected when they reach a certain age, but it didn’t stop me giving her some comeback.

“Wait ‘til it’s your turn, Miss,” I teased with a grin.

“Whatever,” was all she said as she moped off.

I couldn’t help but melt as Dylan grew. I’ve never seen such adorable features in a young man! He looks as lovely as he is inside, that’s the best part. He’s quite reserved, yet deep down he just wants to be liked by people.

Every household needs a techno-whiz, and Dylan’s ours. It wasn’t long before he came crawling round our ankles asking ever-so-nicely for a car, but made it plain that it wasn’t to be a brand new one – he wanted a beat-up wreck he could fix himself. What really got to me was when he said how much of an inspiration I was to him, and that he wanted to follow me into architecture. I was honestly moved to tears.

Occasionally, they tire of the chessboard and seek out other forms of entertainment – like Teddy’s pinball machine. As with a lot of things, it is a pastime they enjoy together. Despite their differences they get on very well, which is lovely to see.

Darya seems very cantankerous for her age. I would put it down to teenage hormones, but she was a pretty mean thrower with that ball when she was younger. Very much the sporty type too, more so than me – and hyperactive with it. She’s going to be a handful, I can just see it…

… although everyone has a good side. I’ve never known a teenager to be such a stickler for cleanliness. It’s almost at the stage where we could cancel our maid and let her get on with it; she loves to clean.

I’m growing concerned about Ariel. Either it’s her age, or that fight with Hydra went to her head, but I swear she’s become more aggressive. I couldn’t believe it when I caught her scrapping with her own son!

Neptune: Okay Mum, be honest – what exactly did I do wrong?!

Ariel: Well, there were those times you kept challenging your Dad when he was just minding his own…

Neptune: Okay, fine, but the punishment hardly fits the crime!

Poseidon began to show his age today. Another cat to retire and let him take it easy – like Ariel, he has truly deserved to make the most of his golden years.

The same day that Poseidon aged, Ariel died. Teddy was just as distraught as I was; our consolation is that she has lived a good life and seen her children grow to maturity. The twins didn’t have that much chance to grow close to her, but for Teddy and me it was a heartbreaking day.

Just as I thought, Darya’s already starting to throw her weight around. Normally those two get on pretty well, but this was one time she decided to pick on the poor lad instead. We’re going to have to keep an eye on that girl.

Chapter Twelve

2008-09-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

Ariel is beginning to show her age. She still seems happy to work for the time being, and is no less hyperactive now than she was before.

The twins remain drawn to the chessboard. Dylan spends almost as much time there as he does reading up on gadgetry. Rather him than me – I never could get my head around these machines, no matter how hard I try.

After what happened with Neptune, I nearly didn’t bother to toilet train Ariel, but with her still being keen to learn new things I wasn’t one to refuse her. I just hope this time it works.

Darya brought home a boy called Steve from school today. He seems a nice enough chap, with just as much interest in the unusual as the rest of us. Given my origins, that can only be a good thing. I have to say, I’m pleasantly surprised at the way I’ve been accepted into human society, despite my obvious differences. The twins appear to keep their legs in the water and have inherited Teddy’s warm blood, but they are still only half human. They are only fortunate they appear normal, although future generations may still inherit a more unusual skin. We shall have to see.

Dylan is such a sweetheart. Not only does he play fair at chess, he always wants to do something with us. He reminds me very much of his father, and that is certainly not a bad thing given what a darling Teddy is.

I made it! City planning here I come! Ah, feels so good to have achieved my goal – nothing can stand in my way now!

I was shocked to find Ariel in a fight today. She’s never fought anyone in her life! I began to peer anxiously into the foray to catch a glimpse of the cat who’d started the skirmish, confident that she was only defending herself.

It suddenly occurred to me what Teddy’s fears had been about Hydra, and my heart sank as I realised she was, in fact, ‘acting like her namesake’ as he’d put it. Perhaps she’s not so good for Neptune after all.

Hydra: I can’t believe I lost to an old woman! How humiliating! I’ll get you for this, mark my words!

Ariel: And I’ll put you back in your place where you belong, child. Let this be a lesson to anyone else who ticks me off!

I never thought I’d be so glad to see Fantasia again. I hadn’t seen her for ages, and with this horrible cat under our roof I couldn’t adopt her fast enough.

I warned her, and I made sure to carry out my threat. Let Hydra make someone else’s pets miserable, I don’t want that creature bearing Neptune’s kittens.

The twins stayed up later than usual, which I would normally have a problem with. They were both so wound up however, there was no way they’d settle if I did send them to bed, so I left them to it and retired for the night.

Dylan: Careful with that thing, you could have knocked me out!

Darya: Ah come on, don’t be such a sissy!

Dylan: Come on yourself, it’s a game! How am I meant to catch it when you throw it so hard!?

Chapter Eleven

2008-09-21T17:51:00.000-07:00

I nearly caught fright at the high-pitched, delightful squealing as school finished for the day. I turned round to seek out the source, and was met with a little boy waving a report card at me, proudly proclaiming that he’d achieved the highest grade. I glowed with pride at the sight; this boy’s so smart!

One thing I’ve noticed about twins; they do most things together. Barely had Dylan calmed down before I was faced with another excitable child waving an equally impressive scrap of paper.

Both of them are doing so well, and I couldn’t be happier with either of them. This is certainly one of the best parts about being a mother.

With the knowledge that I would no longer be around forever, I felt some practice was in order – poor Neptune must have got a fright when he found me.

Not really! I was in fact teaching him to play dead – and, just like his mother, he caught on very well.

Incredibly well! He had me in stitches with his antics. If he doesn’t go up in the world after this, I’ll be very surprised.

Speaking of going up in the world, Teddy’s been climbing the ladder at a rate of knots lately. Every time he returns from work, I have come to expect that he’ll bring a large bonus and promotion with him. I’ve yet to be disappointed, too.

I came back to a lovely reception today. Darya flew from the house to give me a welcome hug. These two are really blooming; any fears I may have had about them have all but evaporated. I’m so proud of them both.

The next day, Darya brought home a familiar face after school. This is Jackie Stanley, who I met once while I was a Captain Hero. Lovely little girl, pretty quiet like me – and, it turns out, the twins too. It was nice to see her get on with them as well as she does with me.

I had no doubts about Dylan’s ability to do his homework, but he asked for my help all the same. Darya did the same with Lore a little while later; Jackie was still here, but it needed doing.

There seems to be a strange force emitting from the chessboard; it pulls our children to it like a magnet. They’re always playing it, either alone or together. I saw Darya alone one day and decided to join her – although, despite her cleverness, she wasn’t the most honest of players.

Why she felt the need to cheat is beyond me, unless she just found it funny. I warned her that she wouldn’t gain many friends playing this way, but she just shrugged.

There we have it – proof she really doesn’t need to cheat. Her logic skill peaked while we were playing. Given how much she played with that block puzzle as a baby, I shouldn’t be that surprised, although I did start to wonder if the smart milk lasted longer than we were led to believe.

I caught Dylan scribbling into his diary later on. I don’t know what was more adorable; his reminiscing or the paranoia that his sister would see what he was writing.

Dylan and I have grown very close, and I don’t doubt that it’s because we’re so similar. He’s even been asking about my work, and offering to help out with the building and decorating I’ve been doing here.

While the humans are away, the cats will play… and Hydra receives an unwelcome visitor while her owners sleep.

Not even another cat, but a roaming wolf instead – a sinister looking one, at that.

Hydra: Come on, that was hardly fair! I demand a re-match… with someone my own size, of course.

Chapter Ten

2008-09-16T10:43:00.000-07:00

This smart milk is proving to be a godsend. The glow wears off after a while too, thank heavens. The twins also seem to have taken very well to the cats, they’re always cuddling them.

Although, being babies, they have the tendency to get a little rough. The cats are good with them though, and put up with it.

I got a little present from the design crew. In their best interests of course, as it will help me build the skills I need to be able to work better, but I’m not complaining in the slightest.

I decided to draw a sketch of the wedding pavilion I built way back when. It’s turned out pretty well, I think.

And, wouldn’t you know it, that little diagram sent me flying into a higher position. Two more spots after this and I’ll have reached the top!

Children grow so fast, and the time rushes by just as quickly. No sooner had I taught Dylan to talk, than he grew older before my very eyes.

He has such a loveable face, I have to say. He takes after me a lot too, even down to spending a quiet night on the sand.

Of course, where one goes, the other follows. Right behind me the other one tripled in size, and it all happened so quickly we had no time to celebrate their birthdays. Still, with their brand new ability to talk properly, they made it clear that they didn’t want any kind of party. Maybe just as well.

With the twins now outgrowing their cots, I had some remodelling to do. It took me a while to think how I would go about it, before remembering a little talk Lore and I had about the future. We had both agreed that it would be nice for one of them to stay with us to raise their own family; we get to watch our grandchildren grow, and one of them gets some free babysitting where need be. Lore had only to think back to a certain chocolate teapot for her to concur in earnest.

So I went to work. It’s not brilliant, but until I know how many others will join us this is the best I could do.

The nursery and my other oddments got relegated to the brand new second floor. Remembering how cramped the nursery became when the twins were small, I took no chances and expanded both that and the bathroom, to make more room for the potties. We’ll keep another fridge up there too, just for baby food – I don’t know why I didn’t think of that before, but it will spare the next parents the hassle of descending two flights of stairs whenever the child’s hungry.

It’s too early to decide which of them it will be, of course – they’ve only just become old enough for school. In the meantime Lore and I can heave a sigh of relief that they can now sit at the table themselves – all we now have to worry about is cooking their meals and the company they fall into.

Chapter Nine

2008-09-13T03:32:00.000-07:00

Their birthdays came around sooner than either of us realised. How quickly these little ones grow!

One minute they fit into the crook of your arm, the next they’ve doubled in size and able to sit in their own chairs.

The best part however, is being able to train them out of filling their nappies. Although I will admit, it’s not the most exciting of activities.

I was all too soon feeling the strain of looking after them – animal as well as human. What with three cats and two demanding toddlers, I really needed an extra pair of hands about the place. Ideally Teddy’s, but he had to leave for work.

He had told me I could hire a nanny if it all got too much, so I took him up on the idea. Once the woman in question arrived I happily flopped back into bed, safe in the knowledge that I could do so.

That was what I’d hoped, at least. You’d expect it after all, that’s what we pay them for. Instead I woke to the sound of juvenile screeching, and found Dylan still in his cot, screaming to be let out, with a full nappy no less. Sighing, I changed him and brought him downstairs as he was also hungry, wondering where on earth the nanny had got to. I found her as I entered the kitchen; just standing there while a very smelly Darya was drinking from a bottle.

All she had done was bring her downstairs and take out a bottle, and I watched her put Darya in her chair, then back on the floor. She was about to approach her again, but by this point I’d had enough. After feeding Dylan, I sent the useless woman away and promptly changed Darya, before taking the twins upstairs. Once positive nothing else needed doing, I crashed back into bed and willed Teddy to finish work yesterday!

Another day, another dollar and another promotion. Not like we need the money, but it’s so satisfying to keep climbing the ladder like this.

During the course of the day I felt my sanity slowly slip away. Having Teddy around to help was a relief, but it also served to remind me how large the age gap between us still was, despite my earlier wish. By the time evening came, I found myself approaching the lamp for a second time.

After granting me another few days’ grace, I was left with one more wish. I considered the options remaining; money wasn’t a problem, nor was finding a partner. Peace of mind, however, was something that I certainly lacked by now. I was almost begging, never mind wishing, for such a blissful state of mind; anything that would make this nightmarish phase any easier to endure.

At first I felt no different. After a while though, I felt so incredibly calm, even happy with my life. I no longer felt the need to keep working, and taking days off to look after my family was one of my concerns. It would be no longer – the very next day, when I was due to arrive, I called to hand in my notice.

Teddy told me of this substance known as smart milk, which helps toddlers learn at a quicker than normal rate. Very clever device, one I was keen to try after the length of time I spent at the potty with the twins.

It worked very well too, despite the strange side-effect of such food that left them glowing. It seems to literally be like brain food; it sustains them as well as helping them learn much sooner than expected.

There was still one worry, which was taken care of with but a trip to the local pet shop. Neptune needed a mate, and I spotted a charming Tonkinese cat I named Hydra.

Now, Lore and I get along very well and agree on most things, but on this I just had to say something.

“Are you mad?” I spluttered, “Naming her after a dragon’s just asking for trouble!”

I crossed my arms as I looked back at him, wondering what his problem was.

“I just liked the name,” I shrugged, “They’re both female, and a hydra is a water creature as I am…”

“A hydra’s a dragon!”

“Oh come now, don’t be silly,” I chided, “Names have no bearing on a cat! Remember Pisces? She’s hardly a fish!”

My eyes flickered warily from cat to owner, before uneasily crossing my arms.

“Alright,” I relented, “But the moment she starts behaving like her namesake she’s going bye-byes, you got me?”

Of course I agreed, but in all honesty I couldn’t understand what all the fuss was about.

Chapter Eight

2008-09-11T07:51:00.000-07:00

Now Neptune’s a big boy, it’s time he started earning his keep. It’s not that we need the extra income; what we do need is to keep yet another animal out of our hair for a while!

I found him some work as a snooper deterrent. Given how much Lore needs to rest lately, and with me working, we could do with a bit of breathing space.

I may be carrying an extra load inside me, but I refuse to let that keep me in bed all day. It’s getting to the point where I wish it would be time to give birth already, although the very thought is enough to fill me with dread. What will it be like? I keep hearing how painful it is…

Our maid started today. The extra help around the house is certainly welcome, to say nothing of when the baby arrives.

Today saw yet another promotion and the healthy cheque to go with it. At the rate I’m going, I’ll be city planner long before I’m old enough to retire.

I found this little lady wandering around our house later that night. I decided for no particular reason to name her Fantasia. She’s a lovely cat, and may well make a good partner for Neptune. I hope I see her around again.

There I was in the front room, minding my own business, when all of a sudden the most excruciating pain rippled through my belly. I’ve never felt such agony in all my long life!

It seemed to last forever, and I was so grateful when Teddy arrived. He seemed to be more nervous than me, yet he managed to explain that I was in fact giving birth. If this is what it means to procreate, I want no more of it!

Although staring into that little face was enough to make the pain worthwhile – I melted at the sight of his features. He’s the most adorable little thing I’ve ever seen.

We decided to name him Dylan – and Teddy barely had time to acknowledge our new son before I felt a now familiar pain grip my stomach.

At first I frowned at her change in manner, before my eyes widened as I realised that Dylan wouldn’t be alone after all.

“Erm, honey,” I began slowly, “Just how many more have you got in there?”

“What??” I screamed, “Once was plenty, I don’t need it again!”

Sure enough, little Darya was born. I honestly had no idea I was carrying twins! She’s such a lovely sight to behold though; two tiny treasures. The pain was most definitely worth it.

Okay, now let’s take another head-count here: two working parents, three cats, and now two babies?! I’m just glad we gave away Pisces when we did, or it would have been bedlam – although I get the feeling it will be without her help!

It didn’t take that long before we both got into a routine of looking after them both. Seeing Teddy with them was such a heart-warming sight, too.

I have to admit, it’s easier than I thought it would be. They’re both so lovely too – so long as they stay that way when they get older!

I trained this animal on the toilet, and what does he do instead?! Did I waste my time with him? I was hoping to avoid the overly messy litter tray, but no. Oh well. There is more training he needs if he is to progress in his work.

It is getting harder to divide our time among so many others in the house. Ariel got to the point where she began to pester the maid in his duties, the poor thing.

I do feel bad about it, yet what can we do but try? Especially when she doesn’t need any more training for work, while her son does.

In the meantime, the exercise bike just had to go. I was growing so hot from working on it for the briefest periods, yet I still needed to work on my own skills. Fortunately my dedication had paid off, and I had earned a most helpful reward to better my abilities.

Teddy has warned me that once the babies grow older, they will also become more demanding. I can only hope we will be prepared enough to cope once that happens.

Chapter Seven

2008-09-11T07:41:00.000-07:00

As I promised myself, as soon as I was able, I went on a building frenzy. Felt good to unload all that baggage at last, not to mention rearrange what was already there, buy some new things...

I'm not entirely happy with everything I came back with, but it's all they had at the time. It'll do until I find something more appropriate.

Something else I really needed to set up now, was somewhere for us to marry! That statue is mine too, looks pretty good there don't you think?

I'm far too pre-emptive though, I must admit. I shouldn't have added the balloons so soon, I know. Still, I just couldn't resist the urge to show off my handiwork a little.

Lore's friend took her on a shopping trip the moment she heard our news. Which I was very grateful for, as it gave me a chance to make some arrangements of my own. It was nightfall by the time we were all set, but so much the better – it all looked more romantic.

Apart from the stragglers of course, who lingered in the background when there was plenty of seating available. Maybe I should have widened the bottleneck a little...

I can understand now how this is seen as so special an occasion. It was truly a wonderful experience, and I couldn't have asked for a more romantic setting. It all added so much to an already amazing time. I was a little baffled by this talk of cutting the cake though...

“The idea is that it symbolises one giving themselves to the other,” I explained, “One cuts and feeds the other a piece of the cake.”

“Interesting,” I replied as I cut a piece, eyeing it for a moment before looking back at him. “I have to feed you a piece of this cake?”

“That's right,” I agreed, although I soon noticed that familiar mischievous sparkle in her eye as her scaly fingers dove into the chunk on her plate. Perhaps I should have cut it instead...?

After such a special night, it was back to normal the following day. I found an old lamp resting on the ground and brought it inside to ask Teddy's advice, but he seemed just as confused as I was. It looked like it could do with a good clean, but it would have to wait until I came back from work.

Back to the grind indeed, and another day of searching for work I would enjoy.

I found it too! I managed to find work as the head of a construction company. It was as much as I could do to stop from bouncing in my seat, I was that happy! Ah, no more rushing round after supervillians – considering we've starting discussing children I really could do without all that now.

I gave the lamp a polish when I got the chance to, and could only watch in shock as plumes of purple smoke billowed from its spout. I started to wonder if I had broken something.

This gaseous form emerged from the smoke and took the form of a purple skinned creature with a funny hat. He introduced himself as a genie, told me that I was his master (or rather, mistress), and that I had three wishes... I had a choice of things I could wish for.

One was to increase my youth. Now, I have been in such a state for centuries already, so I wouldn't normally have wished for such a thing. However, since becoming mortal I was alarmed at the rate I seemed to be ageing. I needed some extra time with my new family, so I made my wish and hoped it would work.

At first it had seemed to do the trick; I felt rejuvenated and relieved to have some extra time on my side. Although, I don't know if it was a side effect of this wish, but I started to feel very unwell, to the point where I lost my breakfast.

Never in all my long life had I felt such a way. It seemed a little strange that the morning after an encounter with this genie, I was now feeling sick and drained of energy.

The big problem with a working couple and four cats in an expanding house, is trying to keep it clean. Thankfully we can afford some hired help – we'll need it.

I learned that my sickness, although maybe still a co-incidence, was caused not by the genie but something else. I had no idea of pregnancy, having never gone through it before, so I had no idea what to expect, but there it was staring me in the face.

It was so odd at first, feeling this movement inside my body. My mind often drifted as I wondered what the little person would look like, and my heart often quivered in anticipation of being able to find out.

Time flies by so fast. The kittens are now cats – and they are, literally, identical twins. Everything about those two is exactly the same, except for the fact that Neptune's male and Pisces is female. I picked one at random when I decided now was a good time to start some toilet training.

It turned out to be Neptune. Even with having two bathrooms, I may suggest to Teddy that we install another. If we can get all these cats on the toilet, it will make cleaning that bit more bearable.

Ah, first day at my new job and already promoted. I knew I was made for this line of work. Things will get pretty difficult though, with two working will-be parents and four cats. It helps that two of them are working, but not that much. We had spoken of building on a legacy with these cats too, just to watch how different they all might turn out. I do love animals, and the cats are darlings, but sadly one has to go.

The only reason we chose to keep Neptune was because he was toilet trained. Seriously, that was it. When Lore said the twins were more like clones, she really wasn't kidding. I may have to raid the animal shelter as it is, just to save on training time if need be. It may be more expensive, but part of what you pay for are what the animals already know. Given how manic this house is already becoming, I'll take anything that'll make things easier.

Chapter Six

2008-09-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

I soon learned why Raquel was so insistent on my purchasing a double bed. As I tucked myself away for the night, it soon occurred to me that Teddy would need somewhere to sleep, and sure enough I became aware of his presence some time later. It took a while for me to grow accustomed to company in bed, even more so when he decided to snuggle up to me, but it was such a nice feeling. He's incredibly affectionate; the next day, he barely let me return from the bathroom before pulling me into his arms.

They say you know you're in love when you don't even know why. That's certainly true in this case; sometimes things are just meant to happen. I had to let her leave for work eventually, but her absence in fact reminded me I had things to do...

...like find an opening in the architecture field, or not finding as it turned out. Luckily that strange Humble character had been doing the rounds, and she'd been left a nice homecoming present.

It was me who set it up for her and explained the basics. At some point I'll need to help her work it, because for now the poor girl hasn't a clue. Wish it could help me get a more down to earth job though. Well, I have work for now, that's the main thing.

With a job as demanding as this one, it pays to keep in shape. Which reminds me; at some point I'll need to get a workout bench or something like that. That ballet barre she bought may help for what she wants to do, but it's no good for me.

While swimming is a more effective means of exercise, doing so in the middle of winter is far from ideal.

I was beginning to feel a little homesick by the time I arrived home, and decided to try cooking the seafood I would usually eat raw. Since humans require such food cooked through, it was a good experiment for me as my cooking improved... or so I thought.

Teddy was good though, and worked through it. His bluish pallor was cause for concern, however.

Take note folks; never swim in the sea during mid-winter. As much as I like the ocean, I really must remember there are times when one must find better ways to keep trim... Oh don't worry, I thawed eventually, but I wouldn't want to go through that again.

Ariel and Poseidon got on so well, I decided now was a good time to attempt to breed them. As they trotted off to the pet house however, my mind started to race as I thought back to myself. I had never considered the idea of raising fry before, and that was when I was surrounded by fellow merfolk. Now I'm living with a human, as a human. While the idea of little human cross-breeds running about the place is an endearing one, the mere thought of making that happen makes me more than a little nervous.

Oh damn it... you weren't meant to see me in this get-up! Alright, alright, I'm a Captain Hero and my job involves bringing the most violent criminals to justice. It's not as appealing as it sounds, trust me. A mad rush of stopping whoever it is wrecking any more buildings, and then you have to watch someone else clean up what was partially your mess. To be honest, that's partly why I'd rather get a job in architecture – well, there are a few reasons, but anyway... back to work for now. I'll get there eventually. In the meantime there's something I need to buy.

It was a mere two days later, with the springtime now staving off enough of the cold for me to once more venture onto the beach, when I got interrupted during a spot of sandcastle building by a sudden burst of song from behind.

This man is so funny, and adorable at the same time. The day before, he settled for taking hold of my hands just after we rose from the bedclothes. This was a little more elaborate, but just as sweet.

I wasn't intending to do this in my dressing gown, but what can I say... it was there, we were on the beach, and it was Spring. I just couldn't resist. The only problem I faced was, how to explain to a mermaid this ritual we have of engagement and marriage?

He told me briefly about human relationships, and about such things as marriage which legally bonded a couple. He put it in a way that such a union was one of the most special events in a person's life, and it was a declaration to the world of the partners' love for each other. I melted at the idea, and mentioned how lovely it all sounded. I couldn't believe it when he then asked such a thing of me!

There are few times in a person's life when you feel this happy. We clung to each other for a long time, floating among the clouds as the waves gave their applause – so long in fact I nearly forgot I had to leave for work. Talk about moment spoiler.

Still, to say it was worthwhile would be an understatement. “Llama Queen” was at it again, had the bright idea to try to destroy a power plant. She thought she could distract me with this enormous robot thing, but notice earlier I said a Captain Hero? Thanks to my friends and I, not only did she get put away, we all got a cash reward – quite a hefty sum of money. I brought home fifty thousand dollars! I am so getting my teeth into this house when I can; I need to find a home for some of the things I brought with me. Not to mention, I have something else to build now...

We had taken to stretching out on the bed before tucking ourselves away for the night. I had noticed that Ariel had put on a lot of weight these past few days, and Teddy concluded that their spell in the pet house seemed to have borne fruit. I shifted uncomfortably in my spot as I found myself wondering; if cats have their own mating rituals, what about humans?

I couldn't help but wear a cheeky grin as I offered to show her.

“Oh don't you worry,” I purred into her ear, “If it wasn't enjoyable, we wouldn't do it!”

A spicy shiver ran up my spine as I felt his breath on my ear. He was very gentle, and things progressed sooner than I'd realised. All manner of emotions ran through my soul, from initial embarrassment to a new level of excitement that I was never aware of until now.

And according to Teddy, the best is still yet to come. If that's the case, I can scarcely wait.

We awoke the next morning to the patter of tiny feet; four pairs of tiny feet to be exact. Ariel had given birth to twins, who I named Neptune and Pisces. Watching the new parents with their offspring was such a lovely sight to behold, and I began to imagine Teddy and me with our own little ones. The more I think about it, the more I like the idea. It will certainly be interesting to see how they would turn out.

Chapter Five

2008-09-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

The substance later melted away, leaving the ground open to another attack from my shovel. It must surely have been a sign from a greater power; I found not one, but two chests laden with treasure; each one selling for five thousand dollars!

It was such a relief I couldn’t tell you. Thanks to this unexpected surge of income, I was able to not only turn my box into a proper house, but I could even add flooring and pretty wall coverings!

I had learned that some people had taken to breeding their pets and, with Ariel being such a darling, I quickly grew excited at the prospect of her nurturing kittens. I heard that an outdoor pet house was necessary for such a task, and happily I was in the position now to purchase one – and still have plenty left over!

I was so happy to finally study the cookbook in comfort, with a roof over my head. So excited was I at being able to cover the walls, I wasn’t so bothered by the lack of appealing designs at the time; ideally I’d like something that reminded me more of home, but for now this will have to do.

I decided to keep the phone in my room for not only convenience, but also so that I would be able to hear anyone who wanted to call. I also chose to upgrade my bed to a double, under another of Raquel’s suggestions. Well, I’ll admit the extra space is nice, although I’m not quite sure why she was so persuasive about it.

She explained about this weather we experience on dry land, and after I explained my wish to breed Ariel, she was only too happy to point me in the direction of the local pet shop – after making me promise she could own one of the kittens produced. I came home with this little man, who I named Poseidon after an old friend of mine.

Ariel in fact got promoted, adding more to my growing surplus. I decided it was time to buy myself a form of exercise that didn’t require one to freeze in the now icy waters.

Still more training was required for the little lady to progress. This time it was to roll over...

... which, again, she picked up very well – I expected no less by now. She certainly loves to please.

I found myself studying something else a couple of days later; not out of pleasure either, but necessity.

All so I could fix this newfangled contraption, which broke after a mere few uses! I think next time I’ll seek the assistance of someone whose legs don’t turn to fins when they get wet. It didn’t happen, not quite. One scare is one too many though.

Still, the good news is that Ariel has now reached the pinnacle of her career. No more training, unless I wish to of course – there is still the matter of the toilet.

She wasn’t the only one who was going up in the world that day, either. I was being promoted almost daily of late! This particular day though, I was too shattered to feel that delighted – that came later.

After a few days of good fortune, I was feeling brave enough to invite Teddy over. My heart was racing as I reached for his hands, even more so when he clutched mine in return! We merely stood there for a while, a fire inside beginning to burn with enough strength to melt the snow around us. The day really couldn’t get any better.

Or so I thought. He told me he’d hoped our relationship could blossom, saying how much he would love to live by the ocean. The suggestion for him to therefore move in slipped past my lips, and at first I was hoping I could clutch hold of them and force them back into my mouth. I nearly fainted with excitement when he accepted!

I was soon growing tired, however, and had to excuse myself to my bed. How I will sleep with all this happening is beyond me!

If any of you have ever been in the position I’ve been faced with lately, you’ll understand the relief I’m feeling right now! I can understand it must be a steep learning curve for her. The look in her face tells me though, that deep down she’d wanted this as much as I did.

Now I’m able to tell my side of the story, I’d better introduce myself properly. My name’s Teddy Paul and, funnily enough, I’m a Pisces. Co-incidence or fate? Who knows? At any rate it would perhaps explain my love of the ocean, which in turn is partly what drew me to her in the first place. That and I find her childish curiosity adorable, although of course there is more than that to her.

I have to be a little cheeky at this point, as I have a confession to make: although in my current job I, erm, can’t mention as it’s top secret, I’m a designer at heart. I watched her home grow, and couldn’t help but wish to aid its expansion. She has done well in building it up this far, and can only hope she lets me take over the building work. In the meantime though, it’s high time I made some more personal changes...

That’s better; I can see my face properly now! For now though, I must retire myself. Things to do, places to see, cities to sa... erm, build. I know what I’ll be doing tomorrow, that’s for sure.

Chapter Four

2008-09-11T07:15:00.000-07:00

I got promoted! Thankfully they didn’t request that the “uniform” be returned; I realised very quickly that I would need something more comfortable to exercise in, and I can’t always go for a swim. Happily I also received a hefty bonus on top of an increased salary, which was much needed! I soon referred to my “emergency shopping list” as I was knowing it as; the next of the bare essentials that needed to be bought.

Like a proper bed, which I was only too eager to try out after another restless night. It felt so good to snuggle under the covers with actual walls to block out most of the outside noise. I even slept through the shrieking of the seagulls.

Once I woke and showered, I was eager to find whatever treasures lie beneath my feet...

...and soon made an addition to my shopping list: floors. I still reside for now in a box that merely shelters me from the worst of the elements. Another two items that got added with haste: windows and lights. Ariel will be alright in the dark, but I won’t be able to see a thing.

I discovered little though, sadly. A few rocks and bones – although the bones may come in handy to prevent any strays wrecking the furniture still outside. What I didn’t realise at first was, even rocks can earn a little cash. So much the better, I need every penny if I’m to live in a real house.

I caught such a fright as a fountain erupted from the ground, and found myself darting for cover to avoid the fusing of my legs. Perhaps for now the lack of flooring is a good thing. Still, once the water has been absorbed by the ground, I will certainly remember to avoid digging inside in future.

It was time for Ariel to learn another trick, too. She caught on swiftly, as I had by now come to expect.

Those rocks I found, plus my wages from work, gave me enough to finally purchase somewhere to rest that machine I was given when I first washed ashore. I also heard it was wise to invest in some security for my growing property, especially with that device now on display.

I was never so glad to own a telephone, as Teddy decided to call. I did still feel a little odd hearing from him again, but we ended up in quite a lengthy conversation about all sorts of things. Any misgivings I had about him soon evaporated as we spoke, although I was still clueless about how to proceed. All I could do for now was continue as we had been, keeping our relationship platonic for now.

Ariel soon cottoned on to my new sleeping arrangements. I awoke the next day to find her staring expectantly up at me and crying, in that way she does when she wants attention.

What else could one do with such a sight? She is an adorable little thing.

As much as I enjoy her company, however, some aspects of looking after a cat leave much to be desired.

She seems to be learning new tricks so well. I wonder if it would be possible to toilet train a cat. There would be no more of this mucky business, that’s for certain.

I was fortunate to befriend one of the ladies who visited me on my first day – Raquel, her name is. The moment I mentioned Teddy, she grew very excited and began to ask me all sorts of questions. I had to urge her back to a steady pace as I explained my anxieties, and she was very understanding. I was so relieved to finally be able to talk with someone about these sorts of issues.

She suggested that I buy myself a mirror and “get into practice.” Since I had no clue whatsoever about romance, I was only too eager to accept – after probing further about exactly what kind of practice I was meant to partake in.

The day after he first called me, he rung again – just as I was about to retire for the evening, as the day had taken it out of me somewhat. It may well have shown in my greeting, but it couldn’t be helped.

I rose with the sun, completely refreshed after being so weary the previous night. In fact I was surprisingly alert, remembering that if I want to progress in the field of dance, I must eventually learn to do so.

Better to look a fool now, than on the dance floor among throngs of humans.

The chill had caught me by surprise, as did these white flakes tumbling gracefully from above. The dancing did stave off the cold for a spell, but after a while of experimentally kicking at the sparkling blanket beneath my feet, the curiosity grew too much to bear. If one can build castles from the coastal sand, what can be done with this substance?

As I sat down to breakfast however, a shudder rippled through my body as I realised that soon now, I needed to build a proper shelter. Winter, as they call it, is here, and to eat in the open air in this icy breeze will do me no good at all.

Chapter Three

2008-09-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

These early rises will be the death of me one of these days. Still, at least now I can afford some decent cooking equipment. One thing I was missing in particular was somewhere to wash my hands – I was growing tired of propping myself up in the shower every time I wanted to get clean, and I was quickly feeling grubby upon dry land.

I did so enjoy a breakfast of something other than hot dogs. Admittedly not quite as satisfying, but the difference in taste was refreshing.

After what was becoming a traditional morning swim, I decided to study the cookbook some more. This time I had the means to prepare anything I wished to, and after my initial worry about cooking, I was finding it to be a most relaxing pastime. By the time afternoon came, I dined on truly fresh food... and found myself in a different predicament. What on earth is this tool humans use to eat with? Don’t they eat food with their fingers here?

Apparently not, according to pictures in the newspaper about dining out. It took some getting used to, but I managed in the end. Wouldn’t want to look silly in front of any humans I eat with, after all.

I was accustomed to this other strange ritual of bill paying, too. Why these “companies” feel the need to charge for necessities such as fuel I’ll never figure out. Still, if I don’t pay them I’ll be in trouble, I gather, so I have little choice in the matter.

Things get so dirty on dry land. I found myself with a lot of cleaning to do, and by the time I was finished I was shattered. If I hadn’t risen so early it would be different – I really must get a proper bed when I can. It is nice to sleep outside where the sound of the waves lulls you to sleep, but the dawn chorus of seagulls is enough to stir even the heaviest of sleepers.

There was still plenty of time left in the day when I woke, and I had a chance to give Ariel the praise she deserves for being smart enough to... well, not mess up the house when I have one. It will come in handy sometime, because at some point I will actually have a home and not a box to serve as a bathroom. She is a clever little lady, I’ve grown very fond of her.

Speaking of having a house; I hear there is treasure to be found in these parts. It’s been rumoured that chests filled with riches can be dug up that are worth thousands. If that’s not a reason to find out for myself, I don’t know what is. Luckily I found this old shovel that had been washed up on the beach.

I never did get to find that out, at least for the time being. While I was digging away, I started to feel as though I was being watched.

That man certainly knows how to sneak up on people. He’s been visiting a lot lately; not that I’m complaining, although there’s still something a little... off about things I suppose. There’s something he wants, and I’m not quite sure what it is. He knows I’m still learning about humans and their ways – I can only admire his patience.

We had spent some time chatting on the grass, and night had fallen before either of us had realised. I decided to serve us some salad, although why he had to grab a different plate to the one I’d placed on the table is beyond me. Yes, table! There was only so long I could go without one when I keep getting visitors, although I had to sell the other chair I had. It was worth it however.

He got the idea after dinner to burn off some of our meal, by kicking a little ball between us. I don’t get the game myself, although it was fun trying to get the hang of it – and watching him effortlessly flick the ball with his feet like a professional. He made it look so easy.

I discovered what he really did the other day, too. I thought I may as well join him, and found a different side to him as we sat on the sand. He spoke dreamily of his curiosity about the world, asking me all sorts of questions about my life in the sea. I almost began to miss it as I told him, replying with my own intrigue about dry land and my reasons for leaving the water.

My wondering didn’t stop there, either. I had a genuine interest in learning more about this man; there is so much depth to him, and he keeps pulling me ever further into his ocean. I had to know what he wanted in life, and I got a surprising response.

He said he was fascinated with the spirit world, and would like to see a ghost one day. It seems we have a lot in common, what with our curiosity about the world we live in. I do so wish I could overcome this uncertainty I have about being close to someone; maybe the best approach is to take a step back while I think things through. I need to confide in someone else about this before I think about seeing him again – the more I do, especially now, the more unbearable I find it. Who to turn to, though... and can they help?

Chapter Two

2008-09-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

I began my first day at work today. I was a little nervous about it, being so new to this way of life, but as much as I didn’t want to, I tried to keep the money aspect in mind as I left – it did help. They were nice enough to provide me with some suitable clothes, too.

Ariel also started her job and, just from the money she brought home, I was able to buy her something to better occupy herself in my absence. Not an essential item given that funds are still low, but I felt she had earned it – literally.

This dancing lark is proving to be so much fun! I would love nothing more than to be able to reach the top of the ladder some day. In the meantime however, summer is already over and I am still sleeping in a tent. I gather Ariel needs to learn a command in order to progress in her work too, but after all the cleaning I found myself needing to do, the sun was already beginning to set by the time I finally managed to teach her. Thankfully she learns fast.

I’m not sleeping so well in this tent, either. By the time I woke it was still dark, although it wasn’t long before the sun started to rise. I needed to work on my fitness and stamina if I was to have a chance to reach my goal; the perfect excuse to go for a swim.

I couldn’t resist – after failing to uncover any treasure the day before, I didn’t even let myself dry off before having another dig in the sand.

I still didn’t find anything though. In the meantime it was off to work, while Ariel got promoted. By the time I returned, I finally had enough to buy a bookcase and brush up on my cooking – thank heavens for that! If I never see another hot dog again, it’ll be too soon.

On the other hand, it turns out I’ll need a proper cooker in order to prepare these new foods – the expense is never-ending.

I became so immersed in the cookbook I lost all track of time. Before I knew it night had fallen – and I had some unexpected company.

I had mixed feelings about his visit. It was wonderful to see him again, but he was already attempting to get just a little too close; I had never experienced such contact, so I suppose there was an element of fear and insecurity. It certainly wasn’t because I found him repulsive – far from it, in fact. He was incredibly understanding about the matter though, and I became glad for his persistence. I could get used to this.

As much as I wanted him to stay though, that extremely early start I had was taking its toll. I had to excuse myself to the tent, and noticed him heading for the sand as I retired for the night. No idea what he was doing or for how long though, perhaps he was building another sandcastle.

Time is flying by so fast. It seems like only the other day that we first met, and now I feel a peculiar warm feeling inside when I see him. I had no idea humans could be such tender creatures, or that they could affect me in such a way, but whatever it is about them that does this, I like it very much.

Chapter One

2008-09-11T06:45:00.000-07:00

After changing my attire, I looked about myself. The area I’d washed up on was bare and open, with only an apple tree to grace the land. Meanwhile I had two mouths to feed, and the fingers of the sea breeze were running through my hair. We needed some kind of shelter, but there wasn’t much I could do with so little – I soon wished I’d taken more from those ships than I did.

I don’t know how these humans live, although the sight of buildings in the distance told me I had a long way to go. Still, it was enough to get us by. Fortunately this old fridge I found contained food, and it was still good. Just as well, since I’d noticed a distinct lack of fish in this part of whatever place it was I’d stumbled upon. It was also summertime, so I could sleep in a tent and not wake up cold. The sunlight was just what I needed to warm up after all that swimming.

Curiously enough, as I settled I attracted a good deal of attention. There was this man who appeared soon after I finished building, who said he was from the Garden Club – I never caught his name. However, I was otherwise occupied and this stranger turning up, expecting to be let in as though I already knew him or something, was beginning to irk me with his pacing and waiting.

There was another who made straight for my door and, after ringing the hastily applied doorbell, he then left a box by the entrance and went on his way. He was very insistent that I open the blessed thing, although as I watched him I started to wonder if that was a good idea. He looked very shifty for someone just leaving a harmless gift, unless he’s just very shy.

At least I think it’s harmless. I have no clue what this contraption is – I’ll have to keep this somewhere safe and ask someone else about it. That garden club member left, thank heavens… although that meant I couldn’t seek his advice on the matter. Something else sparked my interest however – this young man dropped a bundle of paper on the ground nearby. On discovering it was covered in writing and pictures, I decided to investigate further once I’d sat down – with so much to get through, it was likely to take me a while.

When I learned I could earn some money through work, I was so relieved! I was beginning to wonder how I’d get by in this world. I decided to try my hand at dancing, and took a job as an aerobics instructor – they say they train you when you get there. I hope they’re right, although it surely can’t be much different from the singing I used to do. I found employment for Ariel too, as a vermin chaser. With both of us raising money, I should be able to build us a proper home before long.

I had not long set down the papers before I spotted more visitors to my sparse abode. This time I was happy to see some different faces, especially when they said they wanted to welcome me to the area – they called it an island. I was even more pleased to spot a male presence; after sending so many to their deaths, I now had a chance to find out more about them, and I had every wish to do so. I didn’t particularly wish for the looming presence of the other females, though.

Ariel made for a welcome distraction. I was impressed that two of my visitors seemed to sense her presence from within an enclosed room but, given who was left in my company, I was far from complaining. I was a little nervous when I remembered my powers had lessened, but I discovered happily that they hadn’t gone completely.

It would surely come as no surprise to him after hearing my origins, when I started to feel the skin on his hands out of curiosity. Warm blooded creatures, it would seem – I had never had such a close encounter with them before. It works both ways of course – I wasn’t sure what he would make of me, but I was pleasantly surprised. Not only was he unmoved, he even seemed to like my “unique” countenance.

Before long, I felt a gnawing in my stomach… and my heart sank when I realised I had to prepare something for my guests. I had never cooked food in my life, so I was pretty anxious about serving a meal to these new people. When I got into it though, I found myself starting to enjoy it.

I’d needed to ask my male visitor advice about what to dish up, and he’d suggested hot dogs. Quite a bizarre name for sausages in buns, but that is what humans call them. At least I didn’t burn them, pretty impressive for my first try. This man, going by the name of Teddy, had also found Ariel and seemed to take to her very well.

During our meal I quizzed them on this lifestyle they all lead. It turns out this device I was left is called a computer, and that bundle the “paper boy” left is called a newspaper. They suggested that I have a good read of it to find out more, but kindly took the time to explain the basics to me – like the issue of paying bills. I was surprised at this, asking what these “bills” were, and they told me that the services (electricity, etc.) had to be paid for here. I had never been more grateful for finding work so quickly.

As the day became night the two females departed, leaving just me and this Teddy person. We had sat on the sand chatting for hours, and already we had grown pretty close. We were both beginning to complain of hunger though, so we had dinner together. I hope I can learn to cook something other than hot dogs soon, this is already starting to get boring.

They went down well, though. This sand is something of a novelty, I’m used to hard rocks. I couldn’t help myself; the others were making such pretty shapes I just had to give it a try. Teddy came over to join me too – I must admit, the innocent pleasure of playing in the sand is quite appeasing.

He had to leave eventually, and we exchanged numbers – I knew there was a reason I listened to the shopkeeper who sold the “telephone” to me. I do hope we can keep in touch, he seems such a charming man. I may be struggling materially for the time being, but the companionship I enjoyed today has taught me that riches aren’t everything.

Prologue

2008-09-11T06:07:00.000-07:00

I have been on this Earth longer than I care to tell you, spending the centuries singing upon the silvery rocks and luring seamen to a watery grave. While it proved entertaining for a long time, it eventually became lonely and dull. I grew tired of such an existence, starting to wonder what lay beyond the seemingly endless ocean. These mammals known as humans sparked my interest also; I watched their progress over the years, their ships becoming more streamlined and driven by different means as time went on. There was more going on in their minds than I gave them credit for, I could see that even then.

So it was one day that I decided to leave, not knowing what I would be letting myself in for but not caring. After bidding my farewells, I started to swim armed with nothing more than a waterproof case, containing clothes for dry land and a stash of this bartering substance these humans call money, which had been plundered from their wrecked ships. I swam for what seemed like days, hitching rides on passing dolphins where need be, and eventually stepped ashore on this rather empty piece of land.

I didn’t travel alone, either. I found this little lady on a deserted rowing boat some time ago, and she has been my companion ever since. I named her Ariel, after a mermaid I understand is very well known to a lot of humans.

It is fortunate that she is a strong swimmer, although of course I had to take a lot of breaks to let her rest. Eventually we stepped onto dry land for the first time, and I soon learnt that walking with a fish tail just wasn’t going to work. I needed to dry off and change if I was going to get about properly.

What my seafaring friends neglected to tell me was that, once I began my new life on the surface, my powers would considerably weaken, all those talents I had nurtured throughout the ages would be lost and I would become mortal. Funny really, that the last part at least I’m not so bothered about, having already lived for hundreds of years. Although it all depends how long I have now I will be living as a human – will it be enough to build myself up again? More importantly, what shall I do with this time? So much to explore – where to start…?

Preface

2008-09-11T05:59:00.001-07:00

Oh the stories we were told
Quite a vision to behold
Mysteries of the seas
In her eyes of gold
~
In a shade of mossy green
Seashell in her hand
She was born the river queen
There to grace the land
~
Oh, the song of Lorelei
Charms the moon right from the sky
She will get inside your mind
Lovely Lorelei

When she cries, be with me
Until the end of time
You know you will never be
With your Lorelei

~ Excerpts from “Lorelei” by Blackmore’s Night

It's funny how these ideas can hit you. I was playing with another founder, with a less interesting back-story, and one day I was listening to Blackmore's Night (American "renaissance folk/rock" band). Lorelei happens to be one of my favourites, and this particular time the lyrics just sparked something. All of a sudden I was like "Yes, that's who my founder will be!"

So I went to work in Body Shop - then realised after some playing that I got a few details wrong, and her experiences really weren't much to write home about - no problem for just playing, but I have a story to tell here. This is my second try with "lovely Lorelei", and so far things are going a lot better. I've wanted to write about it too, which can only be a good thing - and the pictures have come out a lot better than they did the first time. Yes, it's a legacy, so the pics won't be as great - but I've grown so used to being careful and going for good quality pics it's become second nature. I tried using the in-game camera last time and the lack of quality made me cringe.

Some notes

Legacy rules - Well, given the amount of mods sitting in my main program files, I couldn't play properly even if I wanted to. I'm not gonna take them all out every time I want to play the challenge. I don't really have the patience to keep score either, so this is purely for fun. Mods-wise I'm a coward - no way was I ditching the fixes for a start. I wasn't going without Macrotastics either; it doesn't give any advantage, I've just got so used to getting the place clean with just one click. I ditched a lot of mods, but the really high annoyance-busters were staying put - they get so obsessive in later EPs it's beyond funny.

Pictures/story-telling - I have got a little lax on both fronts, since this is just for fun - a chance to relax after the emotional roller-coaster Xenophobia's turning into. However, after discovering Photoscape I couldn't help myself - I discovered this wonderful backlight tool, as well as frames, and I got a little carried away... Backlight tool for these pics = essential, since lighting's the last thing to worry about in the beginning. It saved a lot of my pics and added some extra colour to others.

One more thing - I gave her a custom skin and eyes; both by Enayla, both geneticised. I've also townified some other custom skins and eyes, so anything can happen with these guys!

Hope you enjoy yet another legacy story.