Realistic or Modern A Family Affair: The Irish Mob - IC (Ended)

[Bellz]

Blake Walsh​

Blake let out a low hum before she smiled sweetly, "Seems fair enough to me." She said before following Jackson down the stairs to the dining room to get some breakfast made by Emery, with light assistance from Conor. Blake stayed silent at first as she stepped into the kitchen letting Jackson greet the little one and Conor. Blake wasn't sure where her and Conor now stood, seeing as now he might have seen a little too much of her. Blake nodded her head, blonde hair bobbing as Jackson lifted the juice box towards her, gesturing if she wanted some juice. Blake couldn't help but swoon as she watched Jackson and Emery interact, so much so that she almost missed the tiny girl shoving the plate in her direction now.

Blake had already sat down in her chair but held out her hands as Emery handed her the plate, "And I am sure all that hard work has paid off Ms. Callahan." Blake said charmingly as she set the plate full of pancakes down in front of her. Blake's face lit up with another smile as Emery compromised with her on what names she could call her, "Well its a pleasure to meet you Emery, name's Blake." The woman winked lightly before she paused and her expression changed as Emery asked her a question,"You know, that's a good question doll, I don't know if I'm Jackson's girlfriend" Blake made sure to say it loud enough for the table to hear, that was until the girl decided to comment on Jackson's hair, causing Conor to almost spit out his drink, earning a giggle from Blake.

She was as cool as a cucumber at Emery's observation as neither Jackson nor herself had brushed their hair, leaving them an easy target to the small child really. Blake gave Jackson a knowing look, "Really Jack ole boy, hygiene is very very important, especially if you want to swoon a lady like myself. We have standards you know!!" Blake looked to Emery, "Never date a boy who doesn't know how to brush his hair, like my mother use to tell me: If his hair is a mess, his life might very well be too." The blonde wagged a finger at Emery before turning to Conor as he spoke to her. Smiling sweetly, she nodded her head, "Oh I'm settling in just fine and Jackson is on his best behavior, treating me like a Queen I can assure you." She smirked Jackson's way lightly. Blake looked to Rudy a moment noting the redness of his face, "You look like a balloon about to pop doll face." She teased him before taking a sip of her juice.
with:Jackson Enzyme ; Conor + Emery Misty Gray ; Rudy Shireling

Faye Armstrong​

Faye swatted Jared playfully again as he made a comment about her in little summer dresses and rolled her eyes at him. "Oh you!" She said fondly his way before nodding her head in thought at a vacation. "Spain would be lovely! Give me some time to brush up on my Spanish!" She said to him sweetly before watching Quinn enter the room, and listening in on the typical sibling talk between him and Grace, once that was over and Quinn and Jared were on their way to play a game of chess, Faye scrunched her nose lightly. "Oh yes, Good Morning Mother, How are you today?" Faye said loud enough for Quinn to hear as he headed into the other room with his father. Letting him go however, Faye turned to Grace with great interest and smiled widely as she informed her of what was on the agenda.

Unlike Jared, Faye loved that Grace was ready to follow her passions, after all, she would be a hypocrite if she didn't allow her to, that was how she got the bakery. When Grace informed her that she would be heading over to the parade to write a story and even just take a few photos for herself, Faye was excited that her daughter was including herself in local events around town, it excited her even further however when Grace invited her to come along as well. "Coffee and cake hmmm? That sounds like a whole lotta fun!" Faye clapped her hands a few times to express her excitement. "I would love to join you today You sure you won't mind having your old mum around?"
with: Jared + Grace Misty Gray
Mentions: Quinn Fletchawk

 

[Bellz]

Lucy Porter and Peter Callahan​

Peter couldn't help but smile at Savannah as she tried to make up reasons for her siblings behavior. "Its alright Savvy, it is better to learn lessons now before they go out into the real world and have to deal with people who can actually give them a piece of their mind." He murmured to his daughter before ruffling her hair lightly. He took a cookie for himself as well before listening in on the conversation quietly.

Lucy nodded her head along with Sinead's words and smiled widely at her niece, "And don't you forget that missy, we all love you so so so much." The blonde looked to Sinead for a moment and caught the look on her face. Lucy bit her lip softly and knew that it was gonna be hard to keep the secret from her own sister, but she had to try for right now. "Don't worry about me, its just a normal appointment. We still have those you know, just the general checkup where nothing has to be wrong." She stared at Sinead with wide eyes and a smile before crawling into bed with her a moment. Peter laughed as Lucy practically shoved him out of the way. "Could have said excuse me, Luce." He told the woman to which she replied, "Who has time for that,Pete?" Earning a laugh from him. He moved off the bed to let the sisters lay there as he moved to sit on the chair beside the bed.

Lucy went to grab a cookie from the container and was about to take a bite when the sickly sweet smell of it caused her to halt in that decision. "Oooo noooo." Lucy murmured as she placed the cookie back into the container and looked to Savannah quickly, "Nothing wrong with the cookies doll, just not feeling frosting right now."

with: Sinead +Savvy Misty Gray

 

[Pyroclast]

Syd Porter

"Sounds like stuff of nightmares to me," Syd replied sleepily at Skye's description of the book. "If I was shrunk that small I wouldn't trust Duke not to crush me with his giant paws, the big dopey bastard." He laughed lightly as the image of their little dog Pistol towering over him popped into his mind. Practically purring at the affectionate touch of Skye's fingers as they laced their way through his hair, Syd rolled onto his back to look up at her. Her own lustrous hair fell gracefully about her shoulders, and he reached up to stroke it, his eyes eventually engaging hers. She looked so beautiful to him in that moment, he felt he could have stayed gazing up at her like that forever.
"I'm just kidding, I bet it's a nice read. But you're right, it's not what I came to talk about," he added. Her confession to watching him train made him laugh then, a slight blush surfacing to his cheeks. "I think that's pretty cute, actually," he assured her. "Maybe I'd push myself harder knowing you had your eyes on me! Though I think I reached my limit today anyway. God yeah, you should have seen him in the gym - definitely superhuman! I on the other hand will be struggling to move tomorrow..."

With some effort, Syd sat back up, raising a hand to Skye's jaw to direct her into a casual kiss. Almost as swiftly as he'd pulled her to him, he then drew himself away again. With his father's advice still ringing in his head, Syd knew that this was as good a moment as any to tell Skye how he felt about her; he just hoped the right words would come on their own. For several long seconds he could only sit at her side in silence, his hand lightly toying with hers.
"Skye..." he eventually said, in a voice so low it was almost as if he didn't want her to hear him. "I can't tell you how happy getting to do that makes me feel." He shifted awkwardly in his seat, studying her delicate fingers as they weaved through his. "Kissing you, I mean. Sitting with you, having you close to me like this." His eyes returned to hers. "I want you to know that you're the only one I want that with. And if you want that with me too, you just gotta tell me, yeah?" Heart pounding, Syd bit down on the inside of his cheek to try to suppress the tingling sensation that had now spread across his whole face. "I really like you, Skye. I'm all yours if you want me."

Interactions
Misty Gray Skye

 

[Fletchawk]

Ryan Donahue​

Ryan listened keenly to James as he raised his suspicions of the Commissioner being targeted at today's parade. He agreed for the most part as this Armstrong was much more insidious person compared to the previous IWU leader. He'd not been completely in the loop back at the casino, but now, Ryan was very current on all the information they had about the IWU. "I doubt he's going to use poison this time though. The easiest way would to plant a bomb, but it seems he prefers less direct methods." Ryan stopped for a secord before shaking his head and correcting himself. "To be honest, we can't be sure of what his method is going be. Though if I had to bet, I'd put some money on a sniper, but even then..." It was the most plausible course of assassination as the Commissioner would be moving slowly out in the open through an urban area for an extended amount of time, but Ryan couldn't be absolutely sure. Armstrong was just too unpredictable. The past two weeks was evident of that. War was as good as declared when James was targeted along with the Mayor and yet, nothing. There was no follow up, no further attacks, no communication. Just nothing. It was starting to reminded him of the Cold War that had been going on between the US and the Soviets.

It really irked him, being on the defensive. "There's too many unknowns, sir. I still suggest that we cut the head off this snake as soon as possible. All you have to do is say the word and I'll erase him." Ryan didn't like sitting on his hands, but he knew it wasn't call to make, so all he could do is voice his opinions. He clenched his fists to vent some of the anger that had been simmering in him. "Sorry, sir. I know you have valid reasons for not going after him directly. I'm just frustrated." Ryan took a deep breath to calm himself. The Porter's garage had been where he'd been keeping himself distracted, but he was running out of projects. He had been tempted yesterday to take out one the engines and take it apart, just for kicks. It would probably be his destination when James and him were done talking.

Misty Gray [James]

 

[Misty Gray]

Grace Armstrong​

Grace knew her father and brother wanted her to reach her full potential, but she didn't believe what that was would be anything she truly wanted to do. In a way, she felt like she'd made her own life harder by performing so well in school, as if she should have set the bar low from the start. The sooner she finished college and found full-time work, the better. It was encouraging to see her mother excited by her suggestion of what to do that afternoon. Whilst it was partly for college, at least she could also take some photographs and later have fun getting them developed.

"Obviously it won't be as nice as your cake, but at least you don't have to make it this once," she commented. "Why would I mind having my mum with me? You're the coolest mum in town and I like our girly time together," she assured her. "But, if I point out any attractive guys, you have to act cool. No embarrassing mum stuff!"

Grace finally ate some of her cereal before deciding to address the elephant in the room. "So, dad... Mayor, huh?" she awkwardly asked. "It's not that I don't support him. He's a great dad, businessman, and I love everything he does for charity. But Mayor too? When are we even going to get to spend time with him? I wasn't comfortable with that Ciara woman, but at least he was at the factory a little less when she was around. He works too hard and spends too much time trying to help others... When did we last go on a family holiday?"


Bellz (Faye)

Sinead and Savannah Callahan​

Savannah quickly nodded her head when Peter said it was better her siblings knew how to behave before going out into the real world. She climbed off of the bed and stepped closer to him, handing him a cookie. She then remained standing closely next to him and gave him a hug. "Thank you, Dad," she said, appreciating his reassurance.

Sinead scoffed at Lucy's response, saying people had normal, general check-ups. "Ohhh. Alright! Check you out, being all sassy. Jeez!" she exaggerated offence. She looked to Savannah and grinned. "Siblings... Still a pain in the butt even when they're adults," she joked. She smiled to herself as she watched Lucy get into bed next to her. Peter went to sit on a chair and Savannah grabbed her own seat, which she positioned next to him. Sinead turned her head to Lucy and kissed her on the cheek. She placed a weak arm around her sister and watched her as she was about to eat the cookie but quickly changed her mind. "Are you crazy?! The frosting is the best bit," she softly told her. "Still, more for the rest of us!"


Bellz (Peter, Lucy)

 

[Misty Gray]

James Porter​

James shook his head as Ryan voiced the possibility of Jared planting a bomb, but he didn't need to speak up as the man also reasoned it would be too direct for Armstrong's apparent style. "We'll have to cover a range of possibilities. Though I'm not sure how we could cover all angles if you're right about there being a sniper," he admitted. He knew the parade would be heavily surrounded by all kinds of buildings and vantage points in the centre of the city. Again, a sniper was just one possibility of many when it came to Armstrong and the IWU. At least Ciara was crazy enough to give warning and gloat about such things. Jared might not even wish to take down the competition in the first place, seeing as he always came across as very confident about most ventures he took part in.

"You're right, there are too many unknowns with how Armstrong will act in his objective to become Mayor, but..." James took a deep breath and was disappointed as he realised he didn't have any cigarettes on him in that moment. "What I can tell you is he wouldn't be walking around the streets unguarded and with so much confidence if he felt at all threatened by us. The man has spent a long time building up his public image - presenting himself as a charitable man and a perfect family man. I've had people look into him and I've even been in touch with Ciara bloody Hennessy. The man covers his tracks well and he has powerful allies. So, if we go and kill him or any of his closest advisers, you can rest assured we won't get away with it. I can handle retaliation or legal justice against myself, but a man like that is crafty and I fear it would be my family that suffers as well. We have to use our heads rather than our guns. We have to learn more about him, his family and his associates. We need to build up evidence against him. Either as something to hold over him or to release to the public so we can break him down. But what I do know for sure, is that we can't attack him right now. He's a man who will have covered all kinds of attacks and eventualities." James shook his head at Ryan's apology. "Don't be sorry, mate. I'm frustrated about this too. I want nothing more than to just kill the bastard for what happened to Sinead."

Fletchawk (Ryan)

Skye McKendrick​

Skye grinned when Syd said the book sounded like the stuff of nightmares. A laugh then escaped her as he mentioned Duke being dopey. "I guess that would be pretty scary!" She looked down to him as he turned to look up at her. She watched his hand as he reached to stroke her hair, but then met his gaze with her own. She couldn't help but blush as she wondered what he was thinking in that moment. Guys had tried to flirt with her in bars before, but nobody had ever looked at her the way Syd was in that moment. She wasn't entirely sure what to make of it. Was he just having fun or was it something more?

"Ahhh, you think it's cute, huh? Now I wish I'd headed over to your place and got myself front row seats," she joked. "Well, I'm sure James has been doing all of those workouts for many years, so he's had way more practice." She pulled a sad face when he mentioned struggling to move tomorrow. "Oh no. You poor thing. You'll be needing one of those sports massages!"

Skye was surprised when Syd moved in to casually kiss her, but she didn't hesitate. Really, she'd been hoping to kiss him again since the last time. He soon pulled away and she looked at him with a confused expression. She wasn't quite sure was he was planning. She looked down to her hand as Syd touched it, then looked back to his face when he spoke her name. He started by telling her how happy kissing her made him feel and for a moment she wondered if this was his kind way of working into some sort of rejection speech. Some unexpected 'but' or confession that he liked someone else. She bit her bottom lip but soon realised she was being stupid when he confirmed she was the only one he wanted to be with. He wanted her to tell him if she felt the same. Her cheeks turned an even deeper shade of read and she smiled awkwardly at this completely new experience. She'd spent her teenage years feeling like nobody wanted her or that she wasn't at all important to anyone. Hell, even the staff at the orphanage had told her she was unlovable. But they were all jerks and she'd always vowed she would prove them wrong. She quickly nodded her head, realising she'd left Syd waiting for a response. "Syd, of course I want you. I'm just shocked you feel the same about me." Her nervous smile turned to a bright one, right before she moved closer and tightly wrapped her arms around him. "You're amazing," she assured him.

Pyroclast (Syd)

 

[Enzyme]

Jackson McCarthy​

Jackson cut into the food, looking up to Conor as he addressed Blake. "Hear that, mate? Like a bloody queen." He chuckled, with a mouth full of pancake. He picked up the newspaper on the table. He had divert his eyes from the current event column in order to reach the sports side. Life seemed too pleasant around this time. If something bad had happened, he'd rather wait till the last possible minute to be informed. He lowered the paper at Emery's sweet voice. "You're a cheeky one, aren't ya'? How about we get Uncle Conor's Miche' down here - get a whole salon going?" He winked to the girl. He felt he wasn't going to get off that easy, Blake immediately jumping in on it. He looked up to her with a sarcastic stare, accompanied by a smile. "She's right, Emery. Well, unless he's as handsome as this devil. Can get away with a lot more."

At Emery's question about Blake being his girlfriend, his eyes looked up to the kitchen clock. "We really should get down to your place." After standing up and placing his newspaper on the counter, he looked back to Emery to answer her question. "Em', if a boy ever treats you how I treat Ms. Walsh and doesn't call you his girlfriend, I'm gonna wallop the sense into him." He gave her one last smile, before helping Blake to her feet.

After making there way to the car, Jackson suddenly realized he was shirtless. Hesitating as he opened up the car door, he shook his head. "Hell, if you gotta' walk around like that till you get your clothes, I'll share the embarrassment." He climbed inside the car and brought the Cresta to life with the turn of a key. After slowly rolling down the gravel road, the guards were more than happy to open the large gates for them.

Bellz (Blake) Misty Gray (Conor/Emery) Shireling (Rudy)

 

[Fletchawk]

Alexander Quinn Armstrong​

While Quinn was sure that his father would be amenable to his request, he wasn't expecting Jared's zest. It caused him to pause as he watched his father make his way towards the study, where the board was located. Not wanting to track food through the house, Quinn gave the last bit of his bread to Andy before following his father into the hallway. He felt a tinge of guilt when he heard his mother call after him, as he'd neglected to give his mother the proper amount of attention that he'd normally bestow.

The image of his father sitting behind his ivory pieces was so familiar and nostalgic that when Quinn sat down he needed a few seconds to push away the massive archive of memories that cascaded into his thoughts at the sight. Jared's words helped cleared his mind and reminded him of what brought Quinn back to head his ebony army after so long. "A few weeks. Yes, I suppose it's been about that long. I hadn't realized it was so apparent." It made him a little uneasy, but he really wasn't that surprised his father of all people perceived his recent change in demeanor. The child in Quinn was actually glad his father had been paying enough attention to notice. He relished the feeling for a minute while Jared started the game by reaching for his first piece. As Quinn watched his father make his classic opening move, time seemed to slow for a split second it felt as though he was in simpler time. A time where he never doubted his father's intentions, a time where it was just a boy and his father. His heart twinged a bit as the moment faded as quickly as it came.

With the last of his nostalgia pushed aside, Quinn forced himself to focus on the daunting task at hand, facing his father on the checkered battlefield of soot and snow. Quinn responded after a pause to consider not only his beginning move but words as well. "Do you remember the warehouse that caught fire earlier this month, father?" It was a rhetorical question, but it was need to set the context of the coming discussion. "I certainly do and as you know well, I tend to bore quickly. So when word reached me that an Irish Workers Union warehouse burned down, my curiosity was peaked." Quinn paused as he let himself get distracted by the battle before them as their armies were now starting to clash in earnest. He continued his exposit, not making eye contact with his opponent until the last word left his lips. "Do you know what I found in the still smouldering husk of that warehouse, father?" The tone of the question was heavy and demanded not an answer but an explanation.

Quinn watched his father intently, no longer taking action upon the board until Jared responded to his inquiry.


Misty Gray [Jared]

 

[Misty Gray]

Jared Armstrong​

Jared faintly smiled as Quinn confirmed he had needed to talk for a few weeks. "Son, I've watched you grow since the day you were born. I can tell when there is something on your mind," he assured him. Jared made his first move on the chessboard before sitting back and gazing to Quinn, willing him to proceed. The older man raised a curious eyebrow when his son mentioned the fire at the warehouse, but he remained silent, letting him continue and reach his point.

Jared sat forward to make his next move on the checked board before sitting back again. It was hard for the man not to feel some anger at his son for going to the warehouse after it had been burnt out. Still, he remained calm and neutral as he let Quinn say everything he wished to say. Jared hadn't got by for so long by being easily rattled and reacting hastily to such questioning. When asked what he thought the teenager found in the warehouse, Jared took his cue to finally respond to his son's boldness. Jared sat forward, realising it was also his turn in the chess game.

"I can only assume you found whatever was left of IWU owned firearms and other weaponry," he confidently replied. Jared held the ivory pawn between his thumb and index finger, allowing it to hover over the chosen square before eventually placing it down and letting go of it. He then looked up, allowing his eyes to meet Quinn's stare. "I'm sure you remember or at least recall Ciara Hennessy?" he asked, pausing for the kid to think. He wanted an explanation so he would get one. "Until her incarceration, she was leading the IWU and the direction she was taking it in was a deadly one. She had in her possession as vast quantity of weaponry and explosives, ones which she used on a number of occasions. When I discovered where she was storing the weapons, I arranged for it all to be moved to the warehouse where I intended on handing everything over to the authorities." Jared sighed and shook his head, sadness clear on his face. "Ciara was unhinged and people were killed because of her. I couldn't allow this to continue and tarnish the IWU's reputation. As for the source of the fire, I would have assumed Ciara
started it, but she was out getting herself arrested at that time. Which brings me to guess the Porters were behind it, seeing as she had been directing her attacks on them."

Jared's face then took on a more stern expression. "What I want to know is what the hell were you doing snooping around a burnt out warehouse? That place was a crime scene and you could have got yourself into a lot of trouble. Ciara was working with dangerous people. No matter how bored you get, you must never put yourself into any potentially dangerous situations. Are we clear?"

Fletchawk (Quinn)

 

[Misty Gray]

Conor Sullivan
~Emery Callahan~​

Emery quickly nodded her head when Rudolph asked if she'd made the pancakes. Her taking all of the credit made Conor scoff and shake his head in her direction, with the intention of her seeing him. "I did make them all by myself. I hope you enjoy them," she told Rudy. "Conor tried to help but was just under my feet."

Conor's attention was directed to Jackson upon hearing Emery's question about their relationship, which Blake also seemed to direct to the man. The Sullivan man managed to keep his face straight as he realised he couldn't help his friend out of this one. The response was entirely in Jackson's hands. Breakfast was turning out to be much more fun than Conor had expected - it was worth getting up early for.

Emery laughed as Blake teased Jackson about his hygiene. When the woman told her not to date a messy boy, the child quickly nodded her head. "Okay. I won't!" When Jackson spoke to her, the child smiled brightly. The man always managed to make her laugh and she was drawn to his friendly face. "Yus! Shelly can be my helper in the salon. Where is she?!" When Jackson and Blake made a move to leave, the man made a comment about walloping any boy who didn't can her his girlfriend. "Okay. I will punch him first but you can wallop him after," she agreed.

Feeling pretty proud of successfully teasing his friend, Conor let out a short chuckle. He then grabbed another pancake, more than happy to eat whatever was left rather than waste it. "Rudy, mate. How's it going?" he asked the other man, who had been struggling to hide his amusement. He glanced to the newspaper the man had set down. "I noticed that fuc--" Conor began. He'd been about to swear before catching Emery staring at him. He pointed to the story about Jared Armstrong running for Mayor. "Looks like he's going to be a problem and one we can't punch out of our lives."

Shireling (Rudolph) Enzyme (Jackson) Bellz (Blake)
Mentions: neverbackdown (Michelle, Alex)

 

[Pyroclast]

Syd Porter

The seconds that followed his heartfelt confession seemed to drag on and on and Syd's anxious mind couldn't help but race ahead and play out the possibility of Skye laughing in his face. With her good looks and kind nature it wasn't impossible that she had a following of other admirers, and that perhaps Syd's affections alone were not enough for her. From the way she'd acted around him over the past few weeks however, it would have surprised him if it turned out she didn't feel the same way. But the lingering silence could have meant anything.

To his great relief, she gave him the answer he'd been hoping for. Her reassurance that she wanted him back quickly vanquished all his nerves and his face relaxed into a broad smile, hugging her back warmly.
"I don't see why you should be shocked," he protested. "Like there was a chance in hell I wouldn't be into you...strong, stunning and sweet as you are. And with everyone routing for us behind our backs!" Syd looked up to the ceiling in a state of complete happiness as he held her against him, feeling like the luckiest guy in the world. Right then, he had no doubt he could fall fast for this girl.

With a contented sigh, Syd parted from the embrace. He raked a hand through his hair as he tried to recompose himself, but the spark in his eye wouldn't leave for a good while and there was nothing he could do about that. Having never been so crazy about a person before, there was no telling how his feelings would manifest themselves. But the conversation had gone smoother than he'd expected and he was pleased that things had stayed within their control, now feeling more comfortable and confident than ever in her presence.
"Are you doing okay here on your own, Skye? What with everything that happened to Sinead...I don't know what state she's in, but I'm sure she and Peter appreciate you being around the place." He looked to her and sent a soft smile her way. "I wish I could take you out somewhere - God knows you deserve it - but as it stands I'm still not allowed off the property unattended, and the last thing I want is some poor sod awkwardly helicoptering our date." Syd draped one leg across her lap, subconsciously leaning into the space between them. "Maybe if someone went somewhere on business or a date of their own we could ask to get a ride to the same place, then at least they wouldn't have their eye on us. It'd just be a surprise location!"

Interactions
Misty Gray Skye

 

[Fletchawk]

Ryan Donahue​

Ryan's jaw clenched as he listened to James. It infuriated him to have an enemy so accessible and yet untouchable. Part of him wanted to believe Armstrong was just bluffing, but James was correct. The call was too high and their hand wasn't good enough to play on. All they could do was fold and wait for the next round. He couldn't help but feel more than a little useless in this type of warfare. Ryan was a soldier, not a spy. Ryan's skillset made him into a hammer. The hammer was well-crafted and struck heavy and true, but it was hardly subtle. "Aye. Just remember you're not alone in this. One man is hardly a mob, regardless of how strong he is." It was a phrase that he'd been telling himself lately. Mostly to remind himself to not act alone, a temptation to be sure.

"Well. Speaking of Mrs. Callahan, I should pay my respects to them later. Being all cooped up is probably driving them stir crazy, though I'm sure she'll be roaming around soon enough." Not knowing just how accurate his words were, Ryan made his way back up the basement stairs, turning his head back towards James as he neared the top. "I'll be heading to the garage for now, so if need anything..." He had thought about stopping by the kitchen, but it was likely Conor was there and Ryan would of rather avoid being more frustrated than he already was. Still, he paused in case James had anything else to say.


Misty Gray [James]

Alexander Quinn Armstrong​

The field between the two Armstrongs came to a standstill as Quinn neglected to move while listening to his father. Much of what Jared said explained away what little evidence that his son had collected to support his doubt. It made sense, especially when Quinn really didn't want to doubt his father. He felt like he'd just gotten carried away and was more than ready make amends. Until his father's tone changed. Until Jared used the word 'snooping'. It was an accusatory word that he felt should be inaccurate and something that Quinn would of passed off as mistaken vocabulary if it had been someone else. But this was Jared Armstrong, his father. A man who kept the standard high, not through desire but example. His father's anger also made Quinn less forgiving. He believed what his father said about the Ciara and the weapons, but the word hinted at something else hidden.

However, this line of thought was overwhelmed by his father's demand. For it fanned something that the weeks of doubt had slowly nurtured. Rebellion. Quinn was able to see that his father wanted to protect him and their family, but he felt as though Jared was treating him as a child. He could feel his heart starting to race and wasn't sure if it was because of his own anger raising or the fear of conflicting with his father, Quinn pushed ahead regardless. "Impossible." The word that resonated in his mind was said with a firm finality. "Being alive is potentially dangerous, walking down the street is potentially dangerous, eating is potentially bloody dangerous. What you ask is impossible and more importantly, hypocritical. I am very aware that the world is a dangerous place and I commend you for wanting to protect us, but trying to shelter us is not going to help us. As much as it grieves me to say, but you are not immortal and cannot continue to shield us forever." The truth of his own words caused him to pause. "I'm not saying that I'm going to court danger willingly, but it's a given, unavoidable. Granted, I am young, but I am neither daft nor naive. Father, I'm no longer a child and continuing to treat me as such helps noone."

Quinn returned his attention to the frozen battle of opposing kingdoms in hopes of calming his rapidly beating organ. He could no longer maintain the intensity against the force that is his father and spoke in a softer tone. "I'm sorry that I upset you by going to the warehouse. It was not my intention, nor was putting myself in danger. I was merely seeking an unknown experience, something to fill my time." Quinn picked up his remaining bishop, debating on either sacrificing or retreating it. The outburst had taken the steam out of his willingness to lead aggressively, as he placed his bishop further back from the front line.


Misty Gray [Jared]

 

[Shireling]

"Em, if a boy treats you like Jack treats Ms. Walsh and doesn't have a ring on layaway, I would be more scared of what your father would do than anything," Rudy added somewhat softly so that the other adults could hear, then laughed good naturedly. When the pancakes had been brought to him and their existence explained, he began to cut them up and eat contentedly. Rudy's uppercrust refinement that could only be passed down by heredity shone through in how he ate--calmly, deliberately, almost daintily with how he worked his fork and knife to remain meticulously clean.

Before long they were joined by Kieran who was dressed in his waistcoat and shirtsleeves and carrying a leatherbound journal that he was scribbling in with a fountain pen. He had a small card that read "Press" tucked into his vest pocket.

"Going somewhere, Kieran?"

"The Dubliner wants me to cover the parade. Waste of time if you ask me," said the young man irritably.

"Friend, reporter, priest, spy, Mr. Joyce. You wear many hats." Rudy commented.

"Idle hands are the playthings of the Devil," Kieran added dryly, sitting down. He threw a cursory glance at Blake and Jackson and then towards Conor and Emery.

Misty Gray Bellz

(I'm on my phone so sorry for the lack of formatting)

 

[Misty Gray]

Skye McKendrick​

Skye shrugged her shoulders when Syd said he didn't understand why she was shocked. "I don't know... I guess because everything about me is right here. I don't have any family or anything special to tie up to me, really. I spent years being told I would amount to nothing and that I was nothing more than a troublemaker." She smiled as she thought of how those people were surely by now all wrong. "I'm just happy to know I am likeable and that you, and your amazing family, have all given me the chance to prove myself." She blushed as Syd described her in the most positive of ways. "I'm so glad everyone is rooting for us. I think you're talented, kind, and super hot," she said, playfully nudging him. She then shuffled so she could snuggle closer to him. "So, are your parents rooting for us? I was worried I'd messed up and put myself in their bad books sneaking out with your sisters that night. I think your folks had expected better of me."

When Syd asked if she was doing okay on her own, she quickly nodded her head. "I'm alright. I've offered to help out, but Peter and Finn seem to have everything under control caring for Sinead. I've just cleaned around the place a few times, so it's one less thing to be done," she explained. "I'm just so glad she's getting better. I cried when I heard she was in hospital. The thought of her being hurt and the children losing her... it's just awful to imagine," she sadly told Syd.

Skye sighed when Syd mentioned he couldn't take her out anywhere. She didn't much mind that they couldn't go out as she could still spend time with him around the house. It was more her feeling sad for him and his family, that things weren't safe enough for them to do normal activities. "I'm happy hanging around here too," she softly assured him. "But if we could tag on with someone else, that would be fun. Who do you think is likely to be going on a date?" she curiously asked. "Conor, Jackson, Tommy... aren't they all dating right now?"

Pyroclast (Syd)

 

[Misty Gray]

Jared Armstrong​

Jared shook his head at his son's words, wondering if he was genuinely being ignorant or simply trying to argue for arguments sake. "Quinn... You're more intelligent than this. You can't compare day-to-day activities such as eating and walking down the street to purposely sneaking into a crime scene. One that was dangerous due to the fact it had just been on fire!" Jared pensively rubbed his chin for a short time. "When have I tried to shelter you? I've done nothing but encourage both you and Lily to get out into the world. To make something of yourselves and show ambition. Not that I'm not concerned with your safety, mind you. You couldn't have raised these issues at a worse - or more appropriate - time." Jared disinterestedly made his next move on the chessboard, the game now a minor inconvenience to the conversation at hand. "It has been my intention to run for Mayor for some time now. However, I anticipated that time wouldn't be until the planned election in spring next year," he explained. "The assassination two weeks ago had me make the decision to run for the position now. The city is a mess and I want to clean it up." He leaned back in his chair and looked Quinn in the eyes. "I do need you, your sister and your mother to be extra careful now. I'm not expecting trouble, but if someone was willing to murder the former Mayor, then we do have to be vigilant until we know the killer's identity and motive." It was more difficult to lie to his son that he'd first thought, but it didn't stop him from being convincing when doing so. The less his kids knew about his secret life, the better, for all concerned. "Please, just be careful. No dancing around landmines or climbing into burning buildings," he half-joked.

Jared sighed when Quinn apologised for going to the warehouse and sent a faint smile as he mentioned wanting to fill out his time. "That's okay. I'm sorry if I was at all harsh," he reasoned. "I've got a lot on this afternoon, planning for my campaign, so unfortunately I can't assist you in fending off your boredom. Do you have any other ideas of how you will fill your time? Is the tailors shop fully staffed today?" he asked, reminding him of his responsibility as the store manager. "If so, perhaps you could arrange to do something with your mother and sister? It seems like Lily could do with some motivation if she's not going to spend her free time today studying."


Fletchawk (Quinn)

James Porter and Arlene Sullivan​

James listened to Ryan's words of wisdom, sending him an approving nod. "Thanks, mate. I think we're all going to have to work together on this one. More heads and all that," he commented. "And yeah, I'm sure Sinead would appreciate another visitor. The last I heard, she wasn't very happy with being confined to her bed for so long." James walked up the stairs with Ryan and listened to his imminent plans to head to the garage. "I'll give you a shout if I need anything. I'm going to have a few smokes out back and decide who's going to have the pleasure of attending the parade this afternoon."

*****​

The blonde stood impatiently at the security gates of the Porters' house, letting go out her suitcase handle so she could step closer to the guard. "Are you fucking kidding me?" she asked. "I'm cold and I'm tired. Do not make me climb the fence!"

"I'll go find James, alright? What did you say your name was?" the guard calmly asked.

"Arlene Sullivan. Lucy's cousin," she told him, again. Her attention was then drawn to Ryan as he left the Porters' house to head to the garage. She loudly whistled in his direction and beckoned him over. She would wait for him to get closer to the gates before speaking. "Hey. Is James home? How about Lucy?" she curiously asked. "I'm Lucy's cousin, but this guy doesn't believe me and reckons the phone isn't ringing through to the house," she said, pointing her thumb to the guard in question. "Real jobsworth, this one," she said, sending the guard a teasing smirk. "It wasn't this cold in Florida, let me tell you," she told Ryan, exaggerating a shiver.

​

Fletchawk (Ryan)

 

[Fletchawk]

Ryan Donahue​

Ryan nodded his acknowledgement to James before stepping into the hallway and going their separate ways. Making way to the foyer, he could hear the happy indistinct chatter coming from the kitchen even as he walked out the front door. It reminded him that he'd have to send another letter to his mother back in Chicago in the near future. She had been disappointed that her son was unable to be there for Thanksgiving even though Ryan spent most of the day attached to the telephone listening to her gab. Although his ear was no longer sore from having the telephone pressed to his head for hours on end, he rubbed it lightly nonetheless as he walked across the manor's drive towards the garage.

A sharp whistle suddenly piercing the air drew his attention to the front gate. Immediately, Ryan deducted that it came from the shapely blonde that stood on the other side of the gate and definitely not the guard that wouldn't give him the time of day. Even though it looked like the guard, Brian, had it handled, Ryan didn't have any pressing matters. So he moved towards the gate to investigate the visitor and as Ryan got closer, he noticed that the other guard, Cillian, had not bothered leaving the guardhouse although the man could be seen watching the situation from over the top of his paper. Stopping at an arm's length from the gate, Ryan watched the woman closely with a deadpan face as she addressed him.

In his mind, the woman could definitely pass as a Sullivan at a glance, as she had the right hair, beauty, demeanor, and American accent. One of those aspects certainly explained why the guards was being more accommodating towards the blonde compared to when he first showed up at the gate. However, a closer observation told a different story. Her facial features, while charming, didn't match the Sullivans. She moved with grace but it was controlled and it vaguely reminded Ryan of a femme fatale. He couldn't help but chuckle a bit at the Florida bit, as her accent obviously pegged her as a native New Yorker. Which was odd, because he knew there were Sullivans in New York, but the Florida reference raised questions. Overall, he wanted to believe her as he knew Lucy and Sinead did indeed have cousins, but he'd never seen this one so Ryan couldn't take that chance. Not with the enemy they were currently facing.

Ryan, although not sure of her identity but not wanting to be rude either, unbuttoned and shed his blazer to offer it to the lady as he explained the situation to the woman. "Unfortunately, you've come at a complicated time. we're all a bit more cautious than usual, so you'll have to wait for someone to confirm your identity. Sorry, miss." After a few seconds, he felt like he needed to address what he observed about the woman. "I don't mean to offend but as beautiful as you are, you don't actually look like a Sullivan and it sounds like you're from New York, not Florida."


Misty Gray [James + Arlene]

 

[Misty Gray]

Arlene Sullivan​

Arlene noticed the deadpan expression on Ryan's face and couldn't help but roll her eyes at him. She didn't need to question if he was one of James' employees as it seemed naturally obvious. She did wonder what his role was and how senior he was to the gang. When she had last been in the family's company a decade ago, she learned that many of the Porter employees were friendly and welcoming, given the time to know them. She wondered if the man standing before her was the same or if he was one of those purely focused on the job at hand. Either way, she was sure their interaction now would be interesting.

When she was offered the man's blazer, she reached out and accepted it. Perhaps he was one of the friendlier ones. She rested the jacket over her shoulders without putting her arms through the sleeves. "Thank you, that's much appreciated," she told him. Though her tone would seem dry or sarcastic, she was honestly grateful. "A complicated time? When is it not complicated?" she remarked. "The last I heard, the Romanos were just about all dead and buried, so it can't be those shitheads. Who is it now? I bet it's the Russians, huh?" she asked, her eyes lighting up with deep curiosity. She looked to the ground and nodded her head as she was told to wait until her identity was confirmed.

Ryan then made his comment about her lack of resemblance to the family and the sound of her accent. “Oh, you think I’m beautiful?” she asking, feigning shyness in her voice and displaying an intentionally modest expression. “Really, though. What is your role with this family? If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you’re some kind of a detective. Still, I think I will call you Sherlock Holmes. I’m not a Sullivan by blood - I was taken in by Lucy’s uncle back when I was a little abandoned baby. I was most likely born, but definitely raised, in New York. I was on vacation in sunny Florida before I came to Dublin. I guess I forgot the weather isn’t so good this side of the ocean.” She folded her arms and looked Ryan over before deciding to ask him some questions in return – anything to pass the time before she grew more impatient. “And what about you? Who are ya and why are you all the way over here? I’d say you’re a little further away from home than I am.”



Fletchawk (Ryan)

 

[Pyroclast]

Syd Porter

"Well, I don't know if you knew this," Syd joked, lightheartedly. "But everything about me is here, too. So at least we don't have to worry where distance is concerned, eh? 'Specially while I'm still on house arrest and all," He was trying to make her feel better, but there was a sadness to her words that got through to him plain enough. She didn't have connections or family anywhere in the world. It was possible that Syd had relations he didn't know about back in Illinois, but his orphanage had never put him in touch with any. The loving care he'd been fortunate enough to fall into since then gave him no reason to seek out his blood ties. If they were anything like his birth parents, he'd want nothing to do with them anyway. He was just glad that Skye had fallen in with the same family as him. "You don't have to prove yourself anymore, Skye. You're more than just liked around here - you're family to us. And I'll spend as long as we have together trying to reverse the effect them lowlifes' words had on you, else we'll just have to be troublemakers together, alright? You're braver than you give yourself credit for, you know." Syd then blushed at her words, frowning but allowing a modest smile to cross his face. He wrapped his arms around her loosely as she settled herself close against him, relishing the intimacy of their shared space.

"Ah, they probably did. But they expected better of me too. It's just because they care about us," he said. "Besides, my dad does like you. He told me this morning..." He bit down on his lip, realising he may have taken her by surprise a little. "We were talking about you today," he explained, reddening slightly. "He said I'd make someone happy, and that he hoped it'd be you."
Now that the two of them had cleared up their feelings for one another, it was strangely easier to talk to her than it ever had been for Syd. All the times they'd talked before this he'd felt a little reserved and self-conscious, like he had to watch what he said very carefully for fear that it would affect her opinion of him. Whereas now, he was so comfortable around her that he found himself unable to hold back.

Syd felt an unexpected twinge of sadness when Skye told him she'd cried for Sinead. The thought of her being so upset stirred something in him, and he gave her arm a light squeeze, shifting to gently kiss her on the head. He fell into a pensive state as he remembered that awful night. He hadn't been there at the casino when it happened, instead deciding to host some trivial high school reunion to catch up with his old mates. School hadn't been a good experience for him, but at least it had provided him with some normality. Since leaving the institution, he'd found himself considerably closer to the drama of the family business and his first-hand experiences of it had since set him apart from his friends. Most of them had never even seen a working gun before, let alone been caught in a crossfire. Unable to relate to them as he once had, the reunion had felt somewhat forced, and having the night punctuated by the chaotic aftermath of a murder attempt on his father only augmented the rift between himself and his old schoolmates. Syd had had to learn to expect attacks on his family, but although it had become almost a normal part of his life, it still scared him when it happened. At the very least, he didn't want Skye to have to cry alone. She was family, like he'd said, and he'd be sure to treat her as such in future.

"Are they?" he asked sarcastically when she enquired about the dating lives of Conor, Tommy and Jackson. "God, the house is so full of romance right now you can hardly breathe. I think it might be infectious, you know. Guess I'll have to keep my ear to the ground and see if I can catch one of them making plans that we could intrude on. 'Til then, home will have to do."

Interactions
Misty Gray Skye

 

[Shireling]

Kieran Joyce and Rudy Meyers
​

Rudy sat and ate in silence for several minutes while Kieran was writing in his notebook. Finally, he assented to eating a banana for breakfast and a cup of coffee and became a little more relaxed. As they both finished eating, they decided to go for a walk. Kieran wanted to take in the air and Rudy wanted to hunt for James. As they walked, they lit up and smoked and let the white vapor shift listlessly into the blue sky.

"I'm a bit nervous about the parade. If all signs about Armstrong are to be believed, he might try something." Kieran explained.

"Don't see why he would," Rudy opined, "he's got the election in the bag without offing the Guarda Commissioner, I think. Ritzy folks, the kind that I rub elbows with, they won't vote for him. But they're outnumbered, and democracy is mob rule, my friend."

"That seems a bit overly cynical," the younger man retorted, "you fought in the war for that mob rule."

"No, I fought in the war for kin and country. I sympathize a lot with what the old Bulldog said, democracy's the least worst form of government we have."

"Yeah, yeah, alright. We won't get into the particulars of Western politics this early before lunch," Kieran said dismissively with a chuckle. As they rolled up on the guardhouse at the end of the drive, they noticed a knot of people about. A blonde-headed woman neither of them recognized, Ryan Donahue, and two other guards. The two men cruised leisurely on their feet to see what the commotion was and investigate. Kieran was, as has been previously described, tallish and thin with a wisp of russet red hair combed back and sharp angular features. Rudy was, by contrast, a stockier man with heavier Germanic features who looked about early 30's. His blonde hair was slicked back and he wore a black Armani double-breasted suit with spats. The bulk of a large revolver was imperfectly concealed under his coat.

"Morning Ryan," Rudy supplied. He liked Ryan, thought him competent and trustworthy. He looked back towards the gate guard. "Who's the dame?"

"She says she's Lucy's cousin. Just waiting for confirmation."

Rudy folded his arms. "Funny... When James said he was bringing some more kin on to do mercenary work, you were not what I expected." He turned then to face Arlene. Then back to the guard, "I'll take her inside and we'll get this sorted out."

Kieran, meanwhile, scrutinized the women. He felt like he definitely remembered her, but if he did it would've been a long time since he saw her last. Rudy turned to Ryan, "Any idea where James has got off to?" He asked while starting to half walk away and gesturing for the thus unidentified woman to accompany him.

Misty Gray (Arlene Sullivan) Fletchawk (Ryan)

 

[Fletchawk]

Alexander Quinn Armstrong
​

Even though his father seemingly didn't catch Quinn's hyperbole or ignored it, he made no effort to point it out. Quinn returned his attention to the board and realized that he no longer cared for the match as what little competitive spirit he had at the start, had been crushed. He thought the fact that his father was scolding him for going to a the burnout warehouse, that had been out for quite some time by the time he got there, would of provided a valid point of him sheltering his son.

Quinn's eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of 'sneaking.' It reminded him of the earlier mention of him 'snooping'. By his recollection, he was definitely not sneaking as he made no effort to hide his intentions of surveying the building and no one made any attempt to stop him. He wasn't even looking for anything in particular, as Quinn was just taking in the senses and only happened by the slagged weapons due to the shear number of them. Had he not stumbled upon those, the following chain of events wouldn't of likely happened. Quinn did not acquire his suspicion before the warehouse and go there to find evidence to further doubt his father. No, it was there that Quinn acquired it and it could be felt slinking back into the shadows of his thoughts. It was not nearly as strong as before but it was there.

He wanted to immediately correct the distrustful wording that his father used against him, but his father's lecture of the potential dangers of his coming campaign was obviously not to be interrupted. "Yes, father. The shop ought to be fine for the day, though I'll stop in to make sure. I'll certainly avoid snooping and sneaking into burning buildings to alleviate my boredom, because heaven forbid that I might find out that my father is doing more dangerous things unbeknownst to his loving family." His tone was sardonic as he tipped his king to signify that the session was over and stood up to leave the study. He stopped briefly in the doorway to say his farewell. "Father, I wish you luck for your campaign, but please keep in mind that we don't care if you're the Mayor or not. We're happiest when you're home."

Not feeling in the mood for his normal run, he returned to his room to change into the attire that he'd set out earlier in the morning. Well. That was unpleasant. Not that I was expecting it to be otherwise. Quinn no longer doubted his father's intentions, in fact, had he'd been in a less dour mood, Quinn knew he would've been proud of his father for his endeavors against Ciara's criminal ways. Still. I can't shake the feeling that he's not telling me everything. It irked him, but he dismissed it for the time being. Quinn found himself in front of his mirror for the second time this morning as made sure the clothing was in its proper place. He straightened his tie before heading back down the stairs in search of his mother and sibling.


Misty Gray [Jared + Grace] Bellz [Faye]

 

[neverbackdown]

Alexandra Romano ​

Alexandra and Michelle had woken up earlier that morning and it wasn’t a frustrating morning as Michelle’s refused to go the school. While Alex could understand that Michelle wanted to stay behind and be there for Savvy, she had also missed three weeks since the death of fallon so Alex needed to get her back in routine. “Well why doesn’t Savvy or Braden or Emery go to school, it’s not fair” Michelle moaned with her arms crossed. Alex shook her head in annoyance “because they are home schooled , we are not having this conversation again “ Alex sighed, having already had it multiple times.

Eventually Michelle gave in and was brought to school, Alex said her goodbyes before heading over to check on the restaurant to make sure everything was still running smoothly. After an hour or two of doing office work and paper work, Alex left the office and returned home. She still found it weird to call the Porter house home but in saying that she was still comfortable in the house house.

She heard the chatter coming from the he kitchen and smiled to herself as she walked in and looked around at what was happening. “Oooh it smells yummy in here” she commented as she looked at Emery with a smile “did you cook?”

Misty Gray

 

[Misty Gray]

Conor Sullivan
~Emery Callahan~​

Emery listened as Rudy and Kieran conversed at the table, about the latter attending the parade in the city. She'd heard a few of the grown-ups mention the parade already and wondered if it was going to be as boring as it sounded. When Rudy commented about the priest wearing many hates, Emery grinned. "I have some hats too. My red woolly one is the best because it matches my red coat," she helpfully informed them.

When the two men had left to go for a walk, it was just Conor and Emery left at the table. "Well, what a bunch of good for nothing lowlifes. Leaving you to do the dishes by yourself!" Conor joked, stretching his arms out as he yawned.

"No, 'cos you've got to wash up 'cos I can't do that by myself." The girl flashed a smile as she knew her uncle would have to help her. Emery's attention was drawn to the door when Alex entered the kitchen and commented on the food. "Thank you. Yes, I made pancakes and that's why it smells good in here.... And I did more work than Conor!"

Conor couldn't help but smile as he watched Alex enter the kitchen. Although he heard Emery's words, it took him a moment to process them and respond, more distracted by the sight of thr woman he loved. "Alex, this child has been picking on me all morning. What did I do to deserve it?" He playfully ruffled Emery's hair as he spoke. "I think my niece is faulty. How do I go about swapping her for a new one?" After Emery told her uncle to shut up, he briefly chuckled before pulling a seat out for Alex to join them. "How are you this morning, love?" he asked Alex. "Did you manage to get Michelle to school?" he asked, knowing his daughter had become a little more difficult about it now she knew the Callahan children didn't go to school.

neverbackdown (Alex)
Mention: Shireling (Rudolph, Kieran)


((More replies coming up. Need food))

 

[neverbackdown]

Alexandra Romano​

Alex chuckled at Emery’s comment as a smirk played on her lips “I don’t doubt that kid, he needs to start pulling his weight around here and that’s why he’s doing the dishes” she teased as she had heard the start of their conversation before she had walked into the kitchen.

She smiled as Conor pulled the seat out and sat down in it before replying to his previous comment “ah now why would want to swap this little cutie” she said grinning towards Emery. She sure was an amusing child and reminded Alex very much of Conor.

“Ah it was difficult, I’m just sick of having the same conversation over and over again” Alex moaned thinking back to Michelle’s argument that she wasn’t seeming to let go off. “She used to love going to school, worshiped her teacher and now she has no interest unless she hasn’t football practice” Alex admitted as she’s bit her lip before a smile graced her features again “but apart from that it was an alright morning, the restaurant is still holding up well but we need a new waitress , Molly said she’d do the interviews for me because of whose being replaced” she told him.

Misty Gray

 

[neverbackdown]

Mallory Porter ​

Mallory had got up that morning and got changed into a very causal outfit before applying her makeup. She checked the time and sighed to herself before she picked up her school bag from beside her door and made her way downstairs.

Mallory had been one of the earliest to rise and made herself a coffee as she sat at the table. While she had no intention of going to school today, she still had to keep up the appearance meaning she needed her bag and she needed to leave at the right time. At her usual time, Mal placed her cup in the sink, threw her bag onto her back and left the house.

She bumped into a few of her friends on the way and they ended up going to a coffee shop in the town, her friends clearly having decided they too were going to Mitch.

A few hours later, Mal excused herself from her friend and made her way over to the park. She had no worries about being seen, knowing that her mother would be looking after Sinead and the kids and Her father was training Syd.

Mal sat on a park bench as she looked around her, she really hoped that Adam did show up. She hadn’t been able to see him for a while due to her parents strictness and the grounding so she was excited to see him in person rather than speaking on the phone with him

Pyroclast

 

[Fletchawk]

Ryan Donahue
​

Though the woman sounded bit sarcastic when she thanked him, it didn't really bother him as she still accepted the additional layer of clothing. "No, it's not the Red Menace. It's a more local threat." Ryan's voice was tinged with venom as he said the last string of words. The images of that night at the casino and its aftereffects left a hatred in him that was slowly coming to rival that of the Romanos, another name that the woman mentioned. Ryan involuntarily clench his jaw as he fended off the dark thoughts both old and new, something that had become second nature to the man. He knew the woman was probing for information, but until her allegiance was defined, he wasn't going to give her much information. Still, his mother's teaching wouldn't allow him to at least attempt to entertain a potential guest, especially a lady.

As the woman confirmed his observations, he smirked a little at the Sherlock comment. Yes, he was observative.Small details and variance in sounds, these things were needed to help identify problems in his mechanical work. While people were a more complex subject, the skills crossed over and some things became more obvious to him than it would to others. Ryan was tickled by the idea of being compared to Sherlock, but it was still like comparing coal to a diamond. The skill was essentially the same but there was difference in refinement. Still, it improved his mood a bit and was more cordial as a result. Ryan decided to have a little fun, when she asked him a series of questions in turn.

"Who am I?" His face cracked into a shit eating grin before stepping closer to the gate and looking side to side as if he was about to reveal sensitive information. "Doll, I am James Dean of course. I faked my death out in Cali and moved to Ireland so I could work for Mr. Porter. Making movies was getting boring, ya know?" Ryan gave the dame a knowing wink to insinuate that he was obviously pulling her leg. Taking another step closer, he continued the show in hushed tone. "Or perhaps, I really am Sherlock Holmes, legendary detective, and I'm undercover to bring down the gangs of Dublin. Congratulations, miss. You found me out and now I must flee!" He amused himself to the point of letting out a short chuckle before continuing on. "Of course. I could also be..."

"Morning, Ryan."

He'd heard someone walking towards them while he was having his fun but he'd not known who it was until Mr. Meyers spoilt his shenanigans by addressing him. Ryan's head drooped, as he was momentarily disappointed in having his identity partial revealed, before turning to greet the fellow soldier in turn. "Morning, Rudy. Oh, were we to expect someone? I wish James was more on top of welcoming the people he imports from America." His comment held no malice but Ryan's mild annoyance was obvious as he referred to his initial troubles at the gate. Stepping over to the gate controls, he opened it for the blonde to come through. "If you're going to accompany the lady to James, then you'll probably find him out back smoking. Meanwhile, I think I'll return my duties as three's a crowd."

Ryan had not wanted to escort the lady alone as he refused to underestimate her as a potential threat. However, between Rudy and Kieran, he was confident that they'd be able to handle it and to add Ryan would be overkill. Ryan addressed the woman before he continued along his way to his initial destination, the garage. "It would seem as though you are in good hands, so this is where we'll part. Please keep the coat until you find something more appropriate."

Misty Gray [Arlene] Shireling [Rudy + Kieran]