Realistic or Modern Gangs of Birmingham - IC Thread [Open & Accepting]

[BasDorcha]

HM Prison Birmingham

- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -​

Penny Fletcher

Time had not been kind to them lately. Everything felt like it was falling apart. Penny and her normal perky and overly cheerful demeanor had shifted into someone a little more quiet, a little more sad, a little more dark. Work had become a requirement she avoided, letting the other women and her hired help handle it as much as possible. Thankfully the business was well established, the employees well trained, and she didn't need to be there daily for it to stay above board. It had been a week since Marco had been arrested and thrown behind bars, and a week since Penny had last had a decent night of sleep. Most of them, she cried herself to sleep for a few hours of restlessness before waking up and doing the same song and dance of getting through the day.

Around her family, Penny has effectively withdrawn. She hadn't spoken to her siblings much since everything came out, and once her heart felt broken, she stopped leaving the house any more than absolutely necessary. Today was the first time since Marco was arrested that she had bothered to leave the house for more than an hour.

Dressed in a somber black dress, hair simply styled, she showed up outside of the facility, staring up at it like it was an imposing force that could stop her from completing her mission. Swallowing down the fear and anxiety she felt at the looming entrance before her, she pushed inside and checked in. Time ticked by until they were brought to a room full of tables with different inmates sat at each one. Looking around, she found Marco with his arms up waving at her, causing her to rush towards him and grab his hands as she slid into her seat. She couldn't help a few lone tears streaking out of her eyes, but she quickly brushed them away, forcing a weak smile onto her face.

"Marco, nothing could stop me from coming, I'll always be here for you." Her voice is a mixture between crushed glass and velvet, somewhere trapped between broken and hopeful. "So don't mention it. How are you? Are you doing alright? Are they treating you okay? If not I can talk to Tony… he has some guys on the inside that can help I'm sure…" She was trying so hard to sound confident, but she really just wanted to burst into tears and wrap Marco's arms around herself, despite knowing she absolutely couldn't.

"Do you need anything? Is there anything I can send for you?" She carefully avoided talking about what was going on outside - he didn't need to know how things were effectively feeling like they were falling apart even more. Penny wasn't stupid, she knew that Marco thought she should let him go, but one thing Marco underestimated about her was that when she gave her heart, it was completely, without reservation and wouldn't be so easily taken back.

 

[ReverseTex]

Chapter 8: Alt. Scene

Ladywood
Birmingham, England
Tuesday 27th January 1976
Early Evening - Cold, Clear Skies, Breezy

neverbackdown

Dr. Richard Finley
​

Since the blowup at his home, Richard wasn’t surprised he hadn’t heard from Robert. He knew managing the damage at home with Caroline would be plenty of strain as is. Plus, he was busy with his own work. Marco’s situation had been organized well enough. He was being relocated to a more secure holding facility, away from Walker influence but not near Norman Fletcher. The odds were high both men would end up in the same system, having committed similar crimes, and he wanted to prolong their reunion as long as he could. On top of that, general city management was increasingly difficult. A recent snowstorm damaged a few underdeveloped housing units, which required city action to fix. Something he learned, but wasn’t surprised to, was how poor the city services were. The repairs were going to take longer than he’d like, which unfortunately was out of his control. Even if he beefed up funding, it would still be ineffective for this project. It seemed patience was the art of this job, and that was always a difficult trait to manage.

With all of the added stress from work and home, he needed a reprieve. Somewhere to clear his head. There was only one place he could properly do that in-town: his childhood neighborhood. His house was long gone, bulldozed soon after he and Robert’s homecoming from the war to make room for government housing units. But the spirit was still there. There were a few people he still knew from his youth that lived there, but not well enough to outwardly visit. It was mostly just a safe space, free of the culture he currently surrounded himself with.

Richard’s instructions were clear to his security team: keep the car parked a reasonable distance away and to let him wander. Despite disagreement, they permitted the order. With the exception of one member of his detail to accompany him. After Gerald’s incident and his less than ideal physical strength, he conceded. If the city was paying taxes for security, then he felt he ought to use it. After work that evening, his plan went accordingly. He brought a change of street clothes to the office. It was best to blend in the area rather than stick out more than he did. With the cool weather, the extra layers would also help with camouflage. He opted for a worn-in leather jacket, sweater, jeans, and an old pair of boots he dug up in his closet.

Presently, Richard strolled the streets he once called home, hands in his coat pocket. There wasn’t much street activity tonight; with the weather, it made sense there weren’t loiters. Minus a few individuals. His eyes darted to the few people who were passing on the streets; some seemed to be going places, others lost in their own world. But one stood out. A brown-haired girl from afar caught his eye; she seemed to be marching at the ground at her feet. “Oi, see that girl?” Richard titled his head slightly to act as a point to his detail. “Noticed her, sure. What of it?” He replied casually. “She looks familiar. I can’t place it from this far yet. Any idea?” The pair were quiet for a moment as they walked, his company trying to piece together any resemblance. “I think I’ve seen her with Tony Fletcher. If so, she’s probably the rowdy one, if I had to guess. Doesn’t look like his wife, and I doubt she’d be here by herself.”

Rory Fletcher? Somehow that didn’t surprise him in the slightest. That girl seemed to beg for trouble just for the hell of it. And certainly in this part of town, she’d find it sooner rather than later. Without warning, he crossed the street preemptively. If she wasn’t up for a chat, then no harm done. But something told him she was seething with emotions she hadn’t experienced nor any idea how to process. And even if she didn’t want it, he wanted to help.

 

[BeyondDandy]

HM Prison Birmingham
- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -

SULLY FLETCHER
​

As word spread throughout the Fletcher family about their mother's infidelity, tensions increased and ties weakened. The fact that their younger sister Rory is actually the daughter of Norman’s bitter adversary, Robert, rather than their father’s was a surprise to Sully and Tony. The betrayal felt intimate, as though a sinister secret had been abruptly revealed, causing a flurry of inquiries to follow: what was their mother's motivation? How long has she been aware? And why not tell Norman, who has been giving his life from behind bars?

Tony asked Sully what he thought of the situation as they entered the prison to deliver the news. "I don't think we should tell him," Sully responded frankly, always cautious of the family's explosive temper. He was aware of the unpredictable nature of their father's rage, which was once uncontrollable and resulted in his incarceration. Sully noticed the growing conflict between loyalty and prudence in both of them when he looked at Tony, who reflected their father's stoicism and underlying strength.

As they went past security, Sully said, "We best be ready to go to war if we do." He imagined Norman's response: the anguish, the roiling rage, and the knowledge that his own wife had deceived him and concealed the truth. Unease evoked just by the concept. Sully was aware that Norman wouldn’t stop until Robert's blood atoned for the betrayal if he discovered Rory wasn’t his daughter. Sully prepared himself as he approach the visiting room. The brothers bore a secret that would either preserve their family's unity or spark a bitter grudge.

---

HM Prison Birmingham
- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -

NORMAN FLETCHER
​

In spite of the shackles tying his ankles to the ground, Norman maintained a respectable stance while sitting stoically on the chilly metal bench with his hands held firmly in front of him. The room was dark and harsh, but his hard eyes were softened by a twinge of pride when he saw both of his boys enter the room together for the first time in years. He gave them one of his rare, controlled smiles, a glimmer of warmth piercing his otherwise expressionless face. He remarked, "My sons, together at last," with a slight lilt from his Irish accent.

Sully and Tony sat down opposite him, each man preparing himself in his own manner. With the exception of the grey hair that was starting to sneak into his dark hair, which was a testament to the years he had spent behind bars, Norman appeared incredibly strong for a guy serving a life sentence. Sully gave Tony a sidelong glance and urged his older brother to speak out. Sully eventually followed his father's advice and went back home after narrowly escaping an ambush planned by London thugs the last time he was there. However, as Russo, his former associate, established himself in their domain, he had brought his problems with him, casting a lengthy shadow over the family.

Sully pondered whether Norman was already aware. His father had a remarkable ability to stay up to date on the most recent events outside of these concrete walls, thanks to a network of contacts and informants. Sully felt disturbed at the prospect; his father possessed almost miraculous foresight, and it was impossible to know how much Norman already knew about the storm Sully had sparked.

Norman broke the stillness by looking at his oldest son, Tony. “It’s good to see you lad. You look strong. Still keeping up with the boxing?” he asked, a smirk curling one side of his mouth. He continued, his grin waning a little when he observed Tony's reserved demeanor. "I rarely get to see you these days," he said.

He turned to look at Sully. His voice grew quieter as he replied, "I'm glad you made it home, son. Seeing you two together like this is good." An old anguish concealed beneath layers of fortitude appeared as a thin shadow on his face.

At last, Norman leaned back and clasped his hands while his eyes darted between his boys. "So," he went on, looking back at Tony with a trace of suspicion in his gaze, "What brings you to see me? These visits are rarely friendly.”

As his query persisted, the tension in the room increased. Norman's intuition was already in motion during the brief hush that followed the two brothers' arrival with news that had the potential to completely upend their father's life. Sully became aware of the seriousness of this conversation and how swiftly it could alter everything as he looked into his father's eyes.

Misty Gray

 

[Misty Gray]

HM Prison Birmingham
- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -

Tony Fletcher​

Tony had thought over his brother' words, even if he didn't respond to them. Sully seemed against telling their father the truth about the affair and Robert being Rory's father. But his brother's apprehension wasn't enough to change his mind on the matter. Tony wished he didn't have to say it and that the truth had never come out to begin with. Instead, the truth was out and it was only a matter of time before it reached Norman. It was better for the whole truth to come from him, rather than his father hear a fragmented or inaccurate version. Not to mention, he wouldn't want to have to explain why he hadn't told him.

Tony was able to grasp onto a moment of ease when he saw how glad his father was to see him and Sully together for once. Sat across from the man, he still saw the strong and powerful father he'd known growing up. Unlike with Marco, he'd never had any doubts about Norman's ability to handle himself and survive prison. "It's good to see you too, Dad," Tony replied, managing a genuine smile for the older man. "I'm still boxing when I can. You know as well as I do that we've got to keep in shape in this game," he lightly remarked, trying to evoke his usual outgoing demeanour. "I'm sorry I ain't been able to get here as much lately. Things have been real busy. This business don't let up for anyone to catch a rest. Moreso than ever right now..." he trailed off.

Tony looked to his brother as their father expressed how glad he was that Sully had returned home. He hadn't been as welcoming when his brother first returned, nor was he particularly happy with him for bringing Russo to their doorstep. But Sully was family and he belonged in Birmingham with the rest of them. Regardless of the past and what he'd brought into their present.

Soon enough, Norman focused back on Tony. Even if there was no deep, underlying meaning between it, the way the man asked why he was there made it feel like he knew something was off. It was likely the existing anxiety that made him hypervigilant, but Tony felt compelled to give a reason for his visit today. A reason that went beyond his simple wish to see his father.

Tony knew what he had to say could trigger a whole host of upset from his father. It could threaten to cause even more instability in an already volatile situation back home. But he had to be honest. It had to come from his mouth rather than his father find out the truth from someone who had no right to speak of it.

"Rory and I..." Tony began, averting his eyes downwards as his voice weakened. Catching himself, he cleared his throat and lifted his head to meet Norman's gaze. "I have to tell you something and for the love of God, I need you to stay calm," he practically begged his father, his eyes briefly scanning the room to see what he imagined were prison guards just itching for some action in their dull lives. "Okay, so I'll cut straight to it. Rory and I spoke with Robert Walker a few days back," he said, his confidence returning to his voice, even if his speech was moving slightly faster than normal. "After the bloke had helped Rory and me out too many times to ignore, we got suspicious about his motives.... For fuck's sake!" he bitterly hissed at having to be the one to tell his father. "We found out that back in the early fifties, Mum and Robert had an affair." Maintaining eye-contact with Norman, he opted to say the rest before the man could react and prevent him from saying it whilst he was in the moment. As he spoke he ran his hand over his hair in agitation. "And Robert is Rory's biological father," he added, emphasising what he deemed an important word. Norman was her real father, in his eyes. Blood or not.

BeyondDandy (Sully, Norman)

 

[BasDorcha]

The Walker Residence

- Edgbaston, Birmingham, England -​

Vinny McConnel

The sky outside was a deep purple and blue, the stars just starting to pop out of the growing darkness. Twilight was always Vinny's favorite time of day. As the cool air nipped at his skin, he lifted a cigarette to his lips and took a long drag. On his exhale, the smoke drifted up and shaded his eyes from view for a few seconds, causing his to swipe it away with his hand. Things inside the house were tense to say the least. The news of everything had made its way to Vinny through one means or another, and it had left the man with a lot to think about. Rory was a daughter of the Walker's, not the Fletcher's as everyone had always believed. What did that mean for him? Did he have to like her now? Did he have to treat her the way he treated all the Walker's? Yet the girl had grown up in the scummy layer of Fletcher's household - didn't that make her as bad as them?

For now, he would just not respond to any of it. Silence had a way of drawing out the correct responses, guiding him to make more informed decisions. At this moment in time, it didn't concern him what was going on with Rory as she hadn't yet been made his problem. When the time came, he'd figure out how to handle it, just like he always did. Besides, there was plenty more issues to deal with, although Vinny himself was not directly involved in any of it. He was always a silent bystander in things that went on in the house, a proven person capable of keeping anything and everything he heard to himself. Thing's with Caroline were not going well, and Vinny had turned on the charm to max around her, trying to keep her spirits up. It wasn't that he cared whether or not she was happy, but if he could help with the missus, then the boss stayed happy and therefore he stayed employed.

Snubbing out his cigarette, he threw the butt in the trashcan before heading in through the backdoor to the kitchen. As a familiar figure in the house, he quickly saw himself to the office. He discussed things as normal with Robert about what to expect in coming days. When Robert asked him to keep him from killing the lad, a dark look glittered in Vinny's eyes, though his mouth formed an amused smile and he nodded, laughing lightly. "You got it boss. I'll make sure to step in and keep him from bleeding out at the very least." He winks at Robert and props an elbow on each seat of the chair he's in, templing his fingers over the gap. "Oh, it was not anything to tell really. I'd gone down to Scott's for a few drinks and ran into him and Jackie. We had a bit of a boy's night. I think I upset Jackie, though I'm not really sure how. In any case, whatever it was I said, he decided he needed to take a swing at me for it. Obviously I handled it without any issues," What he wasn't saying: I didn't kill him, I didn't cause a scene, and I didn't hurt him either. "Me and Scott called it a night and Scott helped him home as far as I know. I left with different company."

More of what he didn't say: Scott, Jackie and Vinny had actually settled into a bit of a boys night after the initial spark of fire. Jackie had moments where he was too buzzed to remember to hate Vinny and he was fine, only to come back around a few moments later jealous, petty, and ready to spit venom. Vinny let it all roll off his chest. None of it bothered him, and the more it didn't bother him, the more it irritated Jackie that he didn't seem to care. Vinny didn't just act like he was better, he knew it and it comfortably protected him from giving into Jackie's barbing all night, while he continued to deliver his own with comments meant to go over Jackie's head, flirting with Stacy, and failing to get super drunk. How he managed that was his secret.

When him and Scott had finally decided they were done, Jackie got pissy that Vinny still hadn't taken the bait and had wasted his whole night on the one person he hated for nothing. When his temper tantrum turned into refusing to leave and Scott was having to forcefully guide him out, Vinny stepped in to help as well. The moment they were out the door though, Jackie had used it as an opportunity to sucker punch Vinny. It was simple to dodge, but he didn't. He let it hit. After all, he just gave him an excuse to knock the crap out of him, it was a small price to pay. Instantly, he used the moment of impact to crack a punch in return right on Jackie's jaw. For a few moments they scuffled, Vinny holding back just enough to make it look like a fair fight between drunken friends, before Jackie finally called it quits and threw up his hands, walking away in anger. Vinny acted like nothing happened after he smoothed out his clothes and put his jacket back on, returning inside to bring Stacy home with him. He left her house by day break and was back at work by nine the next morning.

Vinny replays the night in his mind. Yup that was exactly how it happened.

"I think he just wants to prove himself. He doesn't understand how I earned my spot with you because he's never been made to do anything that can cost him his life. But I can handle him. Maybe it'll give him something to strive for, having a rival male to keep trying to surpass." Vinny's unfocused eyes slipped for a moment as he thought about how he could continue to fuck with Jackie for a long time as he had no intentions of leaving the Walker business any time soon. Could he eventually break the man? Could he fix him? Realizing he fell into thought he waves it off. "But what do I know."

 

[neverbackdown]

Ladywood
Birmingham, England

Victoria "Rory" Fletcher
​

Saying Rory was a mess would be an understatement; despite her siblings’ constant reassurances that she would always be a Fletcher, she couldn’t shake the feeling of being an outsider, a stranger in a life that now felt false, her sense of identity in pieces. She had been too angry to speak to her mother on the phone and so she had allowed Tony to relay what they had been told by Robert and unfortunately their mother confirmed it all as true.

Since that night, Rory had grown more reckless; the anger she’d worked to contain for the sake of advancing in the family ranks could no longer be restrained. Her actions had been far from admirable, but she didn’t care—she didn’t want to feel or think, and she had always found violence had a way of silencing those emotions. Staring at her bloodied, bruised hands, Rory realized it was time to face reality before her rage led to something she couldn’t take back.

Rory arrived at Tony and Julia's house late in the afternoon, hoping to talk things over with them both and to find a way out of the anger but what she hadn’t expected was to hear that Tony and Sully had gone to see their father. They’d discussed telling Norman the truth about her parentage before he found out from someone else and so this wasn't as though they had blind sighted her but she still wasn't comfortable with the whole thing and had not expected it to be this soon. Despite Tony’s reassurances that it wouldn’t change how their father saw or felt about her, she still felt sick to her stomach at the the thought of them telling her favorite person that she wasn’t truly related to him.

Ignoring Julia's pleas and anxious tone, Rory bolted from the house and quickly took off down the street far from their area and subconsciously towards a more seedy part of town. Her heart pounded, her legs felt like lead, and her head spun with the thought that Norman—the man she had always admired—might disown her. It broke her heart to imagine no longer being “daddy’s little girl.” All she’d ever wanted was to make him proud, and now she faced the possibility of losing him entirely. Lost in a daze of her emotions and thoughts Rory walked with purpose but no direction, only looking up to check her surroundings after spotting a figure approaching from her left.

Rory's fists clenched at her side as she looked around, realizing that she had subconsciously wandered into Ladywood, an unsavory location she often frequented as a teen when looking to express her anger. A fight was exactly what she needed right now, a release from her emotions and fears and, by luck, here came an unsuspecting idiot heading straight for her, practically gift-wrapped for a brawl.

But as the figure drew closer, she recognized him. Richard. Her fists slowly unfurled, a sigh escaping her lips—so much for her fight. She noticed the man standing a bit behind Richard, his security no doubt, before her attention swiftly turned back to Richard. Although she’d been furious with him only a few nights ago and the insensitive way that he had imploded her life, she found she didn't have the same anger towards him now. Whilst it took time but she did accept that his intention was not malicious rather it was just his way, straightforward and without frills, an aspect that Rory herself did appreciate.

"Wouldn't expect to find you in an area like this" she remarked as he approached her.

**********
Int;-
ReverseTex - Richard

Mentions;-
Misty Gray - Tony
BeyondDandy - Norman & Sully

 

[neverbackdown]

The Platinum Lounge
- Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England -
Natalie Smyth
(Alias; Mia Wilson)
​

Sitting beside Dylan, Natalie listened intently as the son and father duo spoke about business, chiming in when appropriate but her mind was currently on her own mission of the night, to seduce Scott Ashworth. She’d done her homework on him and knew he’d be an easy mark, especially given his reputation as a womanizer. When Aidan turned his attention to her, a sly smirk crossed Natalie’s lips. She picked up her champagne, finishing it in one swift sip before setting the glass on the table and standing. “Oh, don’t worry—this’ll be a piece of cake,” she replied confidently. “I’ll see you boys later,” she added, casting them a final glance before strolling out of the lounge and through the door.

It didn't take long for Natalie to reach The Platinum Lounge, pausing outside, she took a deep breath, letting herself slip fully into character as she removed her jacket, revealing the skintight dress beneath. She knew that Scott would be watching everyone walking in and decided it to be easier to get his attention right from the start just incase his attention was pulled elsewhere between her entrance and being seated.

With her head held high and an air of confidence surrounding her, Natalie pushed the door open and strutted inside, adding a subtle sway to her hips as she walked. She adopted a somewhat reserved expression, as if she were not entirely open to interaction, aware that unattainable allure often drew the most interest. Ignoring her desire to look around, Natalie kept her focus straight ahead as she approached the hostess stand "Hi table for two under Mia Wilson". The Hostess quickly scrolled through her list before confirming the name and bringing Natalie to a table close to the bar. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted her target standing close by but maintained her focus, thanking the hostess as she took her seat. Let the hunt begin.

After a few moments, a waitress approached to take her order. Natalie smiled but couldn’t help glancing toward the door, allowing a small frown and a hint of desperation to momentarily cloud her features. She quickly returned her pleasant smile, regaining her composure. “A Manhattan, please,” she requested. The waitress noted her order before gesturing to the seat across from Natalie. “And would you like to order for them?” she asked. Natalie looked back at the door, her expression deflating. A defeated sigh escaped her lips as she shook her head. “I don’t think they’re coming, so just the Manhattan for now, please, I might as well enjoy myself” She said softly, as if not wanting to be overheard. However, she made sure her voice was just loud enough for Scott, who was standing within earshot, to hear.

**************
Int;-
Misty Gray - Scott

 

[neverbackdown]

Horizon Lounge
- Westside, Birmingham, England -


Dylan Jones

​

As Natalie walked away, Dylan found himself lingering on her retreating figure for a moment before his father’s voice drew his attention back. He couldn’t deny that Natalie was a striking woman, and the relatively small age gap was something he had considered from time to time. But he wasn’t foolish; he understood the risks of mixing business with pleasure. Natalie was a huge asset to the Jones family, and with her on their side, he had no doubt they would finally achieve their goals. He was determined not to jeopardize that by putting himself in what could easily become a complicated situation and besides he knew his father would destroy him if he managed to mess this up.

Almost mirroring his father, Dylan leaned forward and took a sip of his Negroni, placing the glass down before resting his hands on his knees. "Right, so in terms of the Walkers, the youngest is Thomas. From what I can gather, he’s extremely sarcastic and, by all accounts, quite intelligent. However, he apparently lacks the capacity to focus on anything for long. I’ve even heard people describe him as a ‘bouncing child,’” Dylan said, shaking his head with clear amusement at the notion of the youngest Walker. "He's not involved in the family business and doesn't seem to know much about it but sources say he wants to get involved but I'm honestly not sure He seems to be pretty weak though but maybe not easily manipulated. However his cousin Jackie is a whole other story, a reckless idiot who actually brought Thomas into the Fletchers pub to try and start a fight with them. Rory Fletcher kicked his ass apparently. He seems to have a strained relationship with Robert but also is constantly out of his head on drugs and drink, I honestly don't know if he's ever been sober. The second youngest, Diana, is away from Birmingham at the minute and then that leaves Alfie and Felicity who are both involved with Russo so no use there".

Dylan reached down to grab his glass, taking a drink as he allowed his father time to absorb the information he had just shared. After a moment, he shifted his focus, ready to move on to the next family in question. After a long sip, Dylan placed his Negroni back onto the table and turned his attention back to his father.

"Rory is the youngest of the Fletcher's and she seems to be a proper handful, most of the men I spoke to are either afraid of her or have been beaten up by her, apparently she can take punches as well as she gives them, pretty violent by all accounts and proper loves a good fight" he mused "she's pretty involved at a low enough level but will get higher in the family once she gets that temper in check but at the minute she runs the pub and does lower level shit and some enforcer stuff. She's well protected by her family and she's definitely treated like the youngest by her siblings. Her and Tony are very close think Tony basically became a father figure after their dad got locked up. Penny is the second youngest and is the complete opposite of her family, you'd not know she was a Fletcher , she was dating Marco from what I can tell and she's a nurse but not involved in the family business, well informed I believe though and she is a Fletcher so I say she does have a bite to her if pushed then that leaves Sully and Tony as Sammy seems to be away from Birmingham with their mother".

Once again Dylan allowed a moment for the information to sink in and took the time to take another sip of his drink before a thoughtful look played on his expression "There's something weird going on though apparently something happened with Rory and she's been on a bit of a violent streak the last few days been in fight after fight, people are putting it down to her father but then apparently the Walkers are somehow connected to it too. John heard Rory and Robert's names pop up in one of the walker's pubs in a conversation between close ties to the Walker family but John couldn't get the context so whatever that is about is being kept very hush hush at the moment"

***********
Int;-
Misty Gray - Aidan

 

[ReverseTex]

Ladywood
Birmingham, England
Tuesday 27th January 1976
Early Evening - Cold, Clear Skies, Breezy

neverbackdown

Dr. Richard Finley
​

“No one ever does, precisely why I come here.” Richard replied warmly. “You’re welcome to join. From the looks of it, it looks like you could use a calm walk to clear your head.” He nodded to his side to invite Rory to join his stroll. Immediately, his bodyguard dropped back, out of earshot from the two but close enough to intervene if-needed. “This is where I grew up, you know?” He started, tucking his hands in his coat pockets to keep them warm. “My shabby little house is long gone, but I like to come here from time to time to remind myself of where I started. Plus, no one tends to bother me here. Great place to come for some peace and quiet.” He explained. His success story was well-known, but he had a feeling Rory didn’t know he was from this level of a slum.

“I apologize for the other night.” He decided getting straight to the point would be the best way to go about this. Other than this instance, he barely knew anything about his niece by technicality. “Robert and I had a row before you two came over, and him dancing around the subject rubbed me the wrong way. I just wanted to get it in the open. Easier problem to address when it’s on the open rather than behind closed doors.”

He paused, allowing the silence of their footsteps to fill the air for a moment. With his poor leg, it was a struggle to keep her pace. But these days, he needed the challenge. “I know we aren’t well acquainted, but maybe that’s what you need. Someone who doesn’t really know you… So Rory, what’s been on your mind?” He asked earnestly.

 

[purplecowdutch]

View attachment 1189056Jackie Walker - walker house - neverbackdown


Jackie dressed up, it was definitely not a first but it was still a special occasion. Sort of.
The whole way over there all he could think about was how Vinny had snitched, ever since his conversation with Caroline it felt like things were finally going his way and then all of the sudden. Robert.
He wanted to have a talk with him but it didn't impress him as much as he thought it would. Jackie felt collected although his bad habit had not stopped, he just got better at hiding it. Or, that's what he thought.
Jackie looked like he was going through the worst cold in the world right now and maybe he was just naive to think they were going to buy that lie.

Jackie hadn't heard from Beth either and was getting kind of over it although if this conversation went the way he wanted it to go, maybe it wasn't even necessary anymore.
But he liked Beth.
'It's to the right here mate,' Jackie nodded the cab driver from the backseat without sharing any glances with the kind sir. He wasn't in the mood for superficial conversation, he had to focus so he did exactly what he always did. Substances.
Caroline had gotten through to him but talking about his father was a line she crossed, saying he was entitled. She had no idea what she was talking about and she had forgotten Jackie knew Robert's weak spot and that was Charles.
They say you shouldn't have favorites but just like any other thing in this world, his uncle wasn't very good at following the rules.

As they arrived, Jackie tipped the driver 20 pounds and pressed it into his hands. Robert didn't know Jackie knew about his little affair and that made the tension in the air just a bit more bearable. Jackie felt like he knew everything about his uncle, though lately he was getting a little distracted but after his conversation with Caroline all he could think about was showing his uncle, what his dad should've been doing all along. Sitting at Robert's desk and ordering Thomas all his silly, little orders.
Jackie had seen stuff, Vinny was cold-blooded but Jackie felt things. He knew whenever he pulled the trigger, someone was eventually going to get him back and this haunted him. He needed to numb himself and there was nobody who cared.

The house was familiar to Jackie, he spend a lot of time here after all, they were the only family he had left. He squeezed himself through the gate, going through the backdoor and the kitchen, announcing his arrival by yelling hello a few times.
The office was known to Jackie but to be fair, he had not been there a lot. Mostly he stood in front of the door as a little boy, listening to the adults talk and wanting to be a part of it. Sometimes things got heated, especially if his dad was there. He would've been dragged away when they were finished, his father would be furious whenever he visited his uncle. Saying things like they would never go back there and how his uncle was a lying scumbag.

Jackie opened the door a little carefully, making full contact with Vinny standing right there, next to Robert Walker.
He felt his blood boil, blurting out something without thinking about it. 'What's he doing here?'
He looked Vinny up and down as he entered the room, 'uncle,' he nodded towards him, 'I am sorry, I am just. .' Best behaviour, Jackie. Control yourself. 'Confused. I thought this would be something between family,' he added, obviously talking about the elephant in the room.
Vinny and him were on bad terms and his jaw was a great reminder of how that started and the constant jaw clenching from the white powder wasn't helping. Jackie was drunk, it was an unfair fight and if he could do it again, he would and then Vinny wouldn't be standing right there but crying to Robert as he got his ass fired.

'I mean, I take my business very seriously and I don't really work with people outside our circle,' Jackie continued, taking a seat in the chair, trying to look as nonchalant as possible. 'Except for Richard, of course.'

 

[BasDorcha]

The Vixen

- Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England -​

Alfred Walker

Time had not been kind to the family lately. One hit after another just kept coming. On the plus side, they now knew who killed Charles, though Alfie was grateful to take the weight from his mother's shoulders and put to rest her angst over not knowing, he himself felt little different. He loved his brother, dearly, but he brought his death on himself. He was unruly, crude, and cold to everyone and treated others with little to no respect as human beings, so when all his darkness was fed back to him, it was a monster of his own creation. His mother didn't seem any better off knowing anyways.

Then you add to that they found out about Rory and the Fletcher's and the rest of the siblings were each managing in their own way. Alfie on the other hand went about business as normal. Eventually he wanted to reach out and get to know his newly announced sister, but things were hectic right now and everything needed time to calm. So Alfie did what he needed to do and that was focus on the major issue they were having about the cocaine and Russo. He and Tony had come to an agreement to a few things after their last meeting. Alfie looked at the short list before him.

"Storage: Felicity's warehouse
Cutting and repackaging: Alfie's Warehouse
Distro: T/A/F/S
Days left: xx
Total Intake:
Total Output:
List of contacts: ….."

And so on. Felicity here was about to be thrown headfirst back into her project, regardless of what their father wanted. Alfie had enough on his plate, it was time his sister stepped up and helped fix her mistake. As she finally joined him in his quiet office, the building empty except for him, he looked up and gave her a warm smile. Despite her being feisty and fiery the moment she walked in, he loved his siblings dearly and would always be happy to see them. "Ah, darling sister, it's lovely to see you too. Surely you don't want to talk about such things and would rather hear some good news?" He grinned at her, leaning back in his seat as he crossed his arms behind his head and waited for her to get impatient. He laughed when she eventually snapped and told him to get on with it, as he was sure she'd do. "I brought you here to tell you you're taking on a fourth of this distribution issue we've got going on. You'll be managing the intake storage at your place, as well as the repacked and processed products at your warehouse. You're going to be in charge of ensuring that everything stays even between me, you, Tony and Sully so no one is getting more product - and vis-à-vis more profit - than the other. You'll also need to start establishing a distrabution team as you're going to be responsible for moving 1/4th of the product."

He sat forward and watched her carefully. He knew she really wanted 100% of the control, but their father had straight out forbidden it, still angry she had made such rash decisions. "I know it's not exactly what you want… But I'm trying, sis. You know what dad is like. I'm trying to make you both happy. He's going to kill me when he finds out I've done even this, but I believe in you, and think you deserve the chance to prove yourself. So will you take it?"

Misty Gray - Felicity

 

[Misty Gray]

The Platinum Lounge
- Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England -

Scott Ashworth​

Scott asked the barmaid to get him a brandy whilst he watched the attractive woman being shown to her table. Given by the way Natalie strutted into the room, he figured she was used to having eyes land on her. The close-fitting dress certainly helped her steal his attention.

"Thank you," Scott said as he was handed his glass tumbler. As he took a sip, the glanced in Natalie's direction again as she was seated at her reserved table.

Scott watched as Natalie looked towards the door. Judging by her facial expression, she was disappointed. Perhaps he'd been stood up by a date or a friend had ditched her. Why anyone would do that to such an attractive woman was beyond him. He made sure to listen closely as the waitress engaged with the customer. Natalie's words confirmed that his suspicions were correct and whoever she had been meant to meet was a no show. There was every chance they were running late, but that wasn't going to stop Scott. If they kept an attractive woman waiting, then they'd thrown away their chance.

Once the waitress had stepped away from the table, Scott made his move and approached. Drink in hand, he caught Natalie's attention and pointed to the chair. "Mind if I sit for a moment?" he asked her. After pulling out the chair, he sat down across from her and set his glass down on the table. "I hope I'm not imposing, but I manage this club and I just wanted to make sure everything is to your expectation. Is there anything I can do for you until your date arrives?" he asked, acting like he hadn't heard what she'd told the waitress.

neverbackdown (Nat)

Horizon Lounge
- Westside, Birmingham, England -

Aidan Jones​

Aidan didn't interrupt his son throughout the young man's explanation of his findings about the Walker and Fletcher families. Some of what Dylan said wasn't news to Aidan, and other parts were. It was still good to hear how much effort his son had put into doing his research. Aidan had to do a lot of that himself after losing his father. It hadn't been simple picking up the pieces after his old man's death. It had taken years to build up a full picture and gain evidence from Elwyn's employees at the time. It had taken even longer; many patient years, to build up enough strength and power of his own to even consider doing what he was now doing in Birmingham. What he did know by now was that Robert or Richard, if not both in equal parts, had murdered his father. The Walkers had built their empire on the blood and ashes of gangs like the Jones Family. Gangs they'd walked all over; slaughtered, beaten down, or even left to fall into the hands of the law. The Fletchers had supported Robert at that time and allowed it to happen. Both families were complicit in stealing Birmingham. Both Robert and Richard were to blame for the Jones family's collapse.

Able to retain all of the information Dylan had presented, he got to responding to the points. "Thomas sounds like quite the liability. I'm sure he's a possibility for us to take advantage of." He grinned at mention of Jackie. Robert's nephew wasn't known for being discreet, so Aidan already had some idea of what made him tick. "Jackie would also fall into the liability category. Feed a guy like him enough drugs and he's anybody's," he joked. "I'm sure playing on his poor relationship with Uncle Robert could reap rewards for us too." Despite his comments, nothing Aidan was saying was set in stone or fully considered to be put into action, but he still wanted to consider the possibilities aloud.

"Alfie has taken the place of the dead son as heir to the throne. If I could shake Mr. Alessi's hand, I would," he said, having seen the reports about Marco's arrest for killing Charles. "Felicity has some power too. I've already had one of my men speak with her at the hotel, and the in-road to that is a work in progress." Russo was of interest to Aidan. Were his plans to take the Walkers and Fletchers down successful, Aidan intended on taking Birmingham for himself. Russo and the drugs trade were something he was keen on exploring. He believed they could benefit each other in their business ventures. Aidan was sure he could offer better distribution of the drugs, especially with his own links outside of Birmingham, where business could be far more lucrative.

The description of Rory being a handful and willing to fight certainly peaked Aidan's interest. "Were she on our side, I'd encourage it from her. But she's not. I suspect she's been lucky enough not to pick a fight with the wrong person yet. As you say, she's protected by her family. In my opinion, a girl like that needs the wind knocking out of her to remind her of her own fragility. Perhaps it would even teach Tony a lesson about the consequences of putting his sisters at risk!"

As suspected, Penny wasn't involved in the business, but she was still a Fletcher, so not immune from the crossfire of the world her family chose to live in. He was already aware of Sully and the man's affiliation with the Russos. Were he to hit the Fletchers, it would be one of the sisters he was inclined to use to weaken them.

Aidan knocked back the rest of his drink and signalled for the waitress to bring them both fresh cocktails. "Now, this drama surrounding Rory. What reason do you think there would be for Rory and Robert to be mentioned in the same conversation?" he curiously asked. He wasn't yet sure himself, but Dylan had had longer to mull over the information than he had. "I know she's been playing a part in causing trouble at Walker businesses, but if you ask me, the Fletchers were pulling their punches there. They could have dealt some real damage to their supposed enemies, but it was all just very... school playground." He sat forward. "But what I have learned since my men destroyed those rich arseholes' cars was that Rory was one of the thugs arrested for it. But Robert got her off the hook. Why would he waste his time and resources on that?"

neverbackdown (Dylan)

 

[Misty Gray]

The Walker Residence
- Edgbaston, Birmingham, England -

Robert Walker​

Robert nodded at Vinny's comment about stopping Jackie from bleeding out should he almost kill him. "Thank you. I'd hate to stain that fine Persian rug," he remarked, his tone completely deadpan.

From behind his desk, Robert sat back and listened to his employee's explanation about the "boys night" Jackie and Scott had also been a part of. It transpired Jackie had hit Vinny after the latter had somehow upset him. It didn't seem difficult to draw a reaction out of his nephew, that much Robert was sure of. Robert simply nodded once the story came to an end. It all seemed to add up and Jackie's behaviour wasn't a surprise to him.

Robert sat forward when Vinny said he thought Jackie wanted to prove himself. "One of his problems is that he believes he's entitled to everything. He needs to make more effort than he has been and he has to get his head in shape. I have neither the time nor inclination to be his mentor. But if you think you can help get him into shape and willing to earn his keep, then I may be on board."

Jackie soon made his grand entrance. Sipping his whiskey, Robert eyed the young man as he entered the room, staring at Vinny before questioning why he was there. "He's here because I want him here," he firmly asserted. He raised a curious eyebrow at the assumption the meeting would be family only. He didn't immediately respond, seeing his nephew was set on digging a hole for himself. He never did know how to fully engage his brain and control himself.

Once Jackie was seated, Robert sat up straight and looked him in the eyes. "You don't take business seriously enough, Jackie. This is my business and it is not exclusive to family. My empire would have died 30 years ago, before even getting started, had I taken that stance," he pointed out. He believed Henry would have got greedy and impatient, then ruined the whole thing. "What you refuse to understand is that being Walker blood does not entitle you to a senior position within my business. Charles had to prove himself. Alfie's has had to work hard to prove himself. None of my children are entitled to any of this. They earn their places just like anyone outside of this family has to. Business and family are not exclusive," he drove the point home.

"But I will focus on family for a moment... You upset your aunt on Thursday," he reminded Jackie. "Caroline has had your back countless times before and I understand you threw that back in her face last week. You owe her an apology," he told Jackie. His tone had shifted from commanding to something softer. Robert was concerned about his wife and her returning depression, so he was determined to do what he could to help her recover. "Despite the way you offended her, it's only because of her insistence that I'm giving you this opportunity now."

Robert looked between Vinny and Jackie. "If you want to earn your place in my business, you will work with Vinny and allow him to help you learn the ropes." Robert knew his nephew didn't like Vinny, but that wasn't a deterrence. "One of the things about this business is that you will have to work with people you don't like. Even if you have no desire to become friends, you have to learn to be professional and tolerate him. I've lost count of how many people I've had to tolerate and accept for the sake of the business, and that's only in the last few months."

Robert looked at Vinny. "How about you, Vinny? Would you be willing to work with Jackie on this?"

BasDorcha (Vinny) purplecowdutch (Jackie)

HM Prison Birmingham
- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -

Marco Alessi​

Marco nodded his head in silent confirmation that he understood Penny couldn't be stopped from coming. He also managed the smallest of smiles at her reassurance she'd always be there for him. It didn't negate his belief that he was dragging her down with him, but he didn't want to spend the visit disagreeing with her. Aside from their personal ties, she was the only person he'd had any real conversation with in days.

"I'm about as well as you'd expect," he told her. He couldn't lie and pretend things were going well. He wasn't okay on a psychological level and he couldn't hide it. "I'm getting by. The staff here are treating me well enough. I figure the best way is to just do as I'm told and they won't bother me." Penny's mention of talking to Tony was certainly tempting. He figured his boss would know people on the inside who he could align himself with, but he wasn't sure if that was possible. "I appreciate that, but... Well, there's talk of me being shipped off to another prison after the sentencing," he explained. "Supposedly for my own protection from the Walkers, but I suspect it's more that they don't want me getting cosy with Tony's guys," he dejectedly admitted.

Shrugging his shoulders, he wasn't sure what Penny was permitted to send in to him. "I don't know. Books or something," he suggested. He knew better than to request anything of value, given that even if it wasn't declined by the staff, it would likely be taken from him by the other prisoners.

"What about you, Penny? What's going on for you? How are things on the outside?" he probed. "Tony, Rory, Julia, the rest... are they all okay?"

BasDorcha (Penny)

The Vixen
- Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England -

Felicity Walker​

Alfie played off Felicity's initial questions, grinning as he teasingly asked her if she really wanted to talk about those matters. Granted, she'd said them in her feisty attitude, but part of her had wanted to hear how her brother was taking everything. She was hoping for an invite to share her own feelings and concerns about their family.

However, this was business, and just like their father, Alfie moved the focus onto it. "Oh. You're telling me that's what I'm doing, are you?" she pointedly asked him. Even if she wanted to be involved in the business that was rightfully hers, it felt humiliating to have to be told by her brother that she could have a quarter of it. "Well. It is my warehouse, after all," she grumbled. She nodded her head at being told she'd make sure everyone got their equal share.

Felicity brushed some loose hair from her face, the expression of which was stern and stoic; a mix between the expressions Caroline and Robert were known for displaying. There was never any doubt about Robert being Felicity's father. Despite being upset with her father right now, Felicity shared many of his traits. And for all of the man's sins, deep down she still wanted him to be proud of her.

"Why are you so keen on helping me with this? You could have half of the profits without me. Not to mention keeping Dad sweet and him giving you all of the praise for it. You don't need me and you certainly don't want to be pissing him off right now. I've been trying to prove myself to him for my whole life and it's never been good enough. I know I'm worthy and capable, but he refuses to see it. I simply don't think he wants me doing anything else but running his hotel. And he didn't even want that at first. He thought I'd get bored and go back to dancing."

BasDorcha (Alfie)

 

[BeyondDandy]

HM Prison Birmingham
- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -

NORMAN FLETCHER
​

When his brother Tony revealed the truth about Rory's biological father, Sully's stomach turned to knots. Though it was already too late, his mind begged Tony to wait for a better moment. As Sully squeezed his knees and forced himself not to flinch under their father's stare, the words sat there on the table like a wound. He stopped breathing for a moment. He prepared for Norman's response, anticipating rage, treachery, anything but the unsettling silence that ensued.

Norman remained still. His face unreadable, he sat looking between his boys. The silence grew thicker, like lead bearing down on them. Under the table, Sully's leg started to shake, his nerves eroding with every passing second. This was the man who had tormented their adversaries, established an empire with his own hands, and gained respect in Birmingham’s criminal underworld. With a single look, the man could freeze the room, and Sully felt the weight of that quiet. The terrible retribution from his father was on the horizon.

Sully was taken aback by Norman's nonchalant authority as he just raised a hand to call the guard nearby. Young Scotty, the guard, rushed over, pulling a lighter and cigarette from his pocket like a well-trained servant. Scotty lighted it for Norman, and as the smoke swirled about him like a veil, he took a slow inhale. Stunned, Sully could only watch. Norman Fletcher was able to control men even in prison with a simple nod. Power emanated from him, just as it had on the streets, and he had not lost it behind these walls.

Norman mumbled, "Thanks, Scotty," and let out a cloud of smoke that hung languidly between them. He simply smoked for a short while, allowing the silence to linger. His keen yet unwavering gaze remained fixed on his boys, as though he was mentally weighing each one. Then, at last, he said something.

“I know, lads.” Silent, almost innocuous, the words struck Sully like a hammer. His dad was aware. He simply decided to share his secret with them now, even though he had known all along. Sully was shocked to learn this because he had assumed his father was unaware of the rifts in their family and Rory's actual ancestry. Norman, however, had been ahead of the game as usual.

Norman's eyes narrowed and shifted to Tony before returning to Sully. “You’ll not treat your sister any different,” he said, voice laced with authority. “She’s a Fletcher, through and through. More loyal than most.” He took a moment to allow the words sink in, his tone unyielding. “Of all my children, she’s the one who’d die for this family without question. Remember that.”

The words of his father weighed heavily on Sully's chest. His father's greatest confidante was Rory, the sister he had began to question and doubt. It was painful, a stark reminder of his own poor decisions, and he tasted guilt. Norman had made it plain that a Fletcher was defined by loyalty rather than blood. And regardless of Rory's upbringing, his father believed she deserved that position.

Norman extinguished his cigarette on the table with a calm, methodical move, his hand steady and under control. As he flung the cigarette butt away, he looked away and scratched his eye thoughtfully. He went on, his voice lower now, tinged with something that sounded almost like regret, "Look here, lads. I wasn’t the best husband to your mother. I was always at the pub, out on the streets, taking care of business.” His tone carried a bitterness that Sully had hardly ever heard before, a rift in the armor of the man he had always feared and admired.

The severe lines in their father's face softened somewhat when he inhaled. “Your mother… she’s the best woman I’ve known. Stayed by me, through every bloody thing.” He briefly averted his gaze, his face expressionless. “I can’t blame her. We drifted apart. I pushed her away. The life I chose wasn’t one she signed up for. And that’s on me.” He spoke without flinching, admitting his errors with a unique candor that astounded Sully. Norman was not the type to express regret or acknowledge his mistakes.

Sully swallowed and plucked up the nerve to say something. “So… you know about her affair? About Robert?”

Norman's steady, unrelenting gaze met his. “Aye. Found out long ago,” he said, a bitter smile tugging at his lips. “I raised another man’s child under my roof, all for the sake of this business, this family. It’s a shitter, ain’t it?” Sully's skin crawled when he made a horrible, hollow laugh. Though buried deep, the resentment was evident. However, there was also an odd acceptance and resignation that Sully hadn't anticipated. For the sake of the family, his father had known and had chosen to keep it a secret.

“But,” Norman continued, his voice hardening, “when I found out, I wanted to confront the bastard. Wanted to rip his throat out for what he’d done. But that would’ve torn everything apart—the business, the family.” A glimmer of the rage that was still simmering beneath the surface was evident when he shook his head. “When I kept quiet, it felt like I’d let him win. Like I’d lost.” The mischievous glitter returned to his eyes, and his gaze hardened. “That’s why it gladdens me to know you put one of those Walkers in the ground. Payback for your old man, eh?”

Sully's lips became parched. He was aware that neither he nor Tony were responsible for Charles Walker's death. Sully, however, was unwilling to undermine his father's faith in their retribution and his satisfaction. Let Norman believe it - it was better that way, easier.

Norman was told that they had five minutes remaining when the guard, Scotty, returned to his side. Norman acknowledged the time with a quick nod. His gaze had softened, even affectionate, in a way that surprised Sully as he turned back to his sons.

“I’ll keep an eye out on your man in here,” Norman said, a faint smile breaking through. “Make sure he doesn’t get eaten up in this place.” It was a simple gesture, but it meant everything - a pledge from the man who had used blood and bone to build his empire, a reminder that even from behind bars, he still had their backs.

Misty Gray

 

[neverbackdown]

Ladywood
Birmingham, England

Victoria "Rory" Fletcher
​

When Richard invited her to walk with him, noting she looked like she needed to clear her head, Rory hesitated for a moment before shrugging. “I suppose it couldn’t hurt,” she replied, falling into step beside him as they began to walk. Although she’d subconsciously come to this area of town looking for an unsuspecting outlet to vent her anger, she couldn’t ignore the fact that she’d initially gone to Tony’s place hoping to talk things out, to release some of the anger and confusion that had been building up over the past few weeks and whilst this wasn't Tony beside her, she felt that maybe an outsiders point of view could be helpful, an unjudging source who didn't have to agree with her or be gentle around her.

Upon revealing that he had come from Ladywood, Rory's eyebrow involuntarily raised in surprise. She was well aware of Richard's story as was almost everyone in Birmingham but she hadn't expected him to have literally come from the slums. He really was a success story—a role model of sorts, showing it was possible to escape tough circumstances and make a name for oneself. For that alone, he’d earned Rory’s respect. Trust, however, was a whole other matter. But, she thought, maybe he could earn that, too seeing as he already seemed to hold Tony's trust.

"I feel we come here for very different reasons" she muttered, a hint of humor in her tone.

She was caught off guard by his apology having not expected it from him. “Thank you, and I understand why you did it,” she replied, glancing down. “I’m sorry for shouting at you…and for the name-calling.” she added as she rubbed the back of her neck, embarrassment edging her voice. Despite her short temper and reputation for shouting and throwing punches, she had to admit that yelling at Richard in his own home wasn’t her finest moment. But at least, she thought, she hadn’t hit him or broken anything.

Richard offered to listen to her problems, and for a moment, Rory let his words sink in. He was right, as usual. Talking to someone impartial, who wouldn’t judge or jump in with opinions, was exactly what she needed. But even so, she found herself struggling to get the words out, to give voice to the turmoil inside.

“I…” she hesitated, taking a shaky breath as she tried to untangle her thoughts. “I feel like I don’t know who I am anymore. The people I was raised to hate are actually my blood, the man I thought was my father isn’t related to me at all, and…” She faltered, her chest tightening as she thought of her father, the whole reason she was in Ladywood tonight. “My brothers are at HM Prison right now, telling Norman the truth. And what if he…what if he disowns me?” Her voice dropped to a whisper, the rawness surprising even herself as the words spilled out.

*********
Int;-
ReverseTex - Richard

 

[neverbackdown]

The Platinum Lounge
- Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England -
Natalie Smyth
(Alias; Mia Wilson)
​

Even Natalie had to admit that she was impressed with how quickly the target took the bait dangled in front of him. In all honestly, it showed Scott to be as much of a womanizer as she had expected but that wasn't a matter to be thought about now right now rather she needed to stay in character, playing the part of the charmed woman, flattered that he’d deemed her worthy of his attention.

When he gestured toward the empty seat across from her, Natalie gave a small nod. "Not at all, please join me," she replied, a smile tugging at her lips. Her smile deepened as he confirmed his role as the club’s manager, and she widened her eyes just enough to feign a touch of surprise. "It’s a lovely club. You’re obviously very good at what you do,” she added, letting a hint of seduction slip into her tone, subtle enough to almost go unnoticed, but unmistakably there.

When he mentioned her date, Natalie let out a sigh, her expression falling into one of subtle disappointment. “I think it’s just me tonight, unfortunately,” she said, allowing a trace of sadness to color her tone. Right on cue, the waitress returned with her drink, and Natalie thanked her with a soft smile.

“But I’m not going to let that get me down after all I didn't dress up for nothing” she added, letting a more cheerful smile return to her face as she took a sip of her drink. Setting her glass down, she allowed her gaze to flicker with a touch of self-conscious charm. "Oh I'm sorry you probably have so much work to do, I shouldn't be keeping you with my sob story" she continued, her tone almost apologetic, though her eyes stayed warm and inviting. She extended her hand across the table toward him. “I’m Mia, by the way,” she said, holding his gaze with a steady, engaging smile as she waited for his reply.

****
Int;-
Misty Gray - Scott

 

[ReverseTex]

Ladywood
Birmingham, England
Tuesday 27th January 1976
Early Evening - Cold, Clear Skies, Breezy

neverbackdown

Dr. Richard Finley
​

Richard walked in silence, listening to Rory’s words carefully. He couldn’t help but notice the similarities in how she and Robert broke down problems. Comparatively, his brother had a few decades of life under his belt. But she reminded him of the younger man he met all those years ago. Caring and thoughtful under a veil of overconfidence. The apology on her end was unnecessary, at least to him. Despite Robert’s reservations about what she said to him, it didn’t hurt his feelings. She was simply lashing out with the news; any real thought was by the wayside.

His eyes glanced to the side once he heard the girl choking on her words. He didn’t want to overstep any boundaries, considering they barely knew one another. But the same part of him that cared for his nieces and nephews was on alert. Perhaps a paternal instinct of sorts. “Just because you’re blood isn’t what you thought it was doesn’t change who your family is. We all have a choice in who we call family." Richard picked up amidst her falter. “Norman is the man who raised you, correct?” He posed rhetorically. “Deep down; that’s all you should consider. Just because Robert is biologically your father doesn’t make him the same thing.” He paused, making sure she understood. “It’s like comparing apples and oranges, dear. Both are fruit, but entirely different.”

Her next words caught his attention. A visit to Norman Fletcher was indeed news. Despite his interest, he kept his motives in check. He could look into the conversation later. “I doubt he’ll do that.” Richard replied calmly. “I wasn’t good friends with your father. We saw one another from time to time when I was in town from my studies, but nothing more. Even with that little knowledge, I could say with confidence that Norman doesn’t seem to be the type to throw his daughter to the wayside.”

“To me, it seems like your family is rallying around you more than they’re abandoning you.” He stated. “Tony has been nothing but supportive and protective over you, as any big brother would. At least from what I can tell.” He added. “And like it or not, you’ve gained another family who does care for you... I may not be blood to Robert, but his children are dear to me. I helped raise them, and I do what I can every now and then now that they’re grown. But all of them know me as their uncle, regardless of blood. In whatever capacity you feel comfortable with, this now includes you.”

 

[BasDorcha]

HM Prison Birmingham

- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -​

Penny Fletcher

Penny drooped her arms across the table, hoping he would take them but not forcing him with initializing the touch. She had no way of knowing exactly where his headspace was at the moment and she needed to be careful to protect it from any damage on her end. The mention of him being moved further away caused her eyes to turn glassy with unshed tears that she refused to let fall. Blinking them away, she instead nodded and made note of the books for him, along with a reminder to talk to Tony about it - getting him some in house protection even if he might be moved, as well as what kind of items she could send for him. She watched him with quietly observing eyes, a million thoughts flooding through her head as she kept them all held back.

As he asked about the others, Penny fell quiet. There was so much going on, but did he really need to worry about that? What good would it do him to know about the troubles going on outside the prison when he couldn't do anything about them? Forcing a smile to her face, she patted the space between them and grinned. "You know how they are. Everyone is up to their own drama, but everyone is alive and well. Tony actually had a sit down with that Walker boy, Alfie. Rory… well…" How did one just come out and say their sister was suddenly a half sister?

"We found out that Rory is actually Robert's daughter…" Penny forced her smile to stay in place, but it never reached her eyes. She focused on her finger nails, not meeting his eyes. It wasn't the worst of the drama, but it was enough to help him feel included, and maybe she could talk through some of what she was feeling at the moment. "It's all very torrid and wretched, of course. Big hush, hush. You know mom, and you know Tony and the rest of the kids don't give a lick who her blood is, she'll always be our sister. But it's… Honestly, I wish I could say shocking, but nothing in this family is ever simple." She took a deep breath, the stress and strain of everything building over the seconds. Looking around, the realization of where she was sunk deeper, and that overwhelming feeling blooming in her chest magnified as she struggled to keep it together.

Sniffling, she quickly swiped at her nose, blinking rapidly as she gave a genuine, but sad, smile and waved her hand at her face. "Look at me, getting all worked up nothing. Rory is still Rory, I just wish you could be there for everything… When you get out, you owe me several drinks."

 

[BasDorcha]

The Walker Residence

- Edgbaston, Birmingham, England -​

Vinny McConnel

… But if you think you can help get him into shape and willing to earn his keep, then I may be on board… Vinny replayed the comment through his mind, and a true smile bloomed over his face. The sad part was, as handsome and charming as his practiced smile was, it was nothing compared to how appealing a real smile made him. Robert had just given Vinny a project that he could take time at length to complete, and tormenting Jackie was the entire goal. Oh sure, by the time it was all said and done, Jackie would be a much better man, but getting there was going to be so.. so much fun. There was a devilish flare in his eyes that would appear almost demonic if someone caught it, but thankfully Jackie chose that moment to stumble in, drawing the attention away from Vinny himself. Right on cue, dumbass. He shook his head.

Instead, the man perked an eyebrow at Jackie questioning his presence. Vinny had never needed a reason to be at Robert's side, why would now be any different? Jackie really was a nuisance. Mentally, he pictured how the future might go. A dimly lit basement, with a sweaty, pissed off Jackie demanding to be let out. Then training in physical strength, defense and offense. Mental training - forcing the man to think over basic problems and see them from a better angle. Yes, Jackie would be the perfect blob of a human to form into someone worth living. A chance for Vinny to put to test the idea that even the most useless person could be valuable with a little work.

As expected, Jackie started babbling and then kept on at it. Vinny sat silently, relaxed in his original chair, eyes watching Jackie in an easy nature, only to occasionally flick up to Robert to judge what he was thinking. He couldn't help the smirk he got though when Robert dressed down Jackie immediately after. Jackie thought he knew everything but the truth was he knew so very, very little. Then he found himself slightly annoyed to hear that Jackie had made Caroline suffer. All his hard work was going to waste because of this prick? He shot Jackie a dirty look, before shuttering it away again. Robert asked him how he would feel about working with Jackie, and he gave his normal smile and nodded. "Sure boss, I can do that, but I have a few questions first."

He turned and looked Jackie dead in his eyes, deadpanning as he spoke. "Can Jackie get clean first? I don't like working with drug addicts. Secondly, if he wants to learn from me, I expect him to do as I say, when I say. I don't say useless things for the sake of saying them, so I expect him to listen when I speak." Turning to Robert, he gave him a casual smile. "If he can do that - get clean and listen - I will teach him everything I know." And I will make him earn every moment he has already spent wasting away on this earth. Just say yes, Jackie boy. I know you can't resist a challenge, but we'll break that habit too.

 

[Misty Gray]

HM Prison Birmingham
- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -

Tony Fletcher​

Tony was surprised when his father met the revelation with silence. He tried to work out what was going through his old man's mind, but Norman remained unreadable. Would he be furious? Upset? Did he care at all? Tony shot a glance to his brother in that moment, expecting his younger siblings would be anxious about the whole thing. As much as he would have liked to have spared them all from experiencing this moment, he couldn't have hidden the truth from his father once he knew it.

Tony couldn't help but smirk as he watched Norman command the guard and get a cigarette out of the man in the process. It was the kind of power he was familiar with seeing his father, as well as Robert, display out in Birmingham. But to see Norman holding control within the prison walls filled him with awe and pride. It reaffirmed his belief in the Fletcher name and the strength their family held.

Finally, Norman put his sons out of their misery by addressing the news about the affair and Rory's biological father. It didn't get much easier, however, as Tony was shocked to hear his old man admit he already knew the truth. Whilst he was relieved to not actually be the bearer of terrible news, he now found himself feeling betrayed somehow. It hurt to hear that Norman had known the truth and kept it secret.

"Stating the obvious, Dad," he remarked when told Rory was still a Fletcher. "We'd never treat her any different. She's one of us and always will be!" he asserted; having never for a second doubted or looked at Rory differently since learning the truth.

Tony held his tongue as his father spoke about how he hadn't been the best husband to Dorothy. He understood how much the business could consume their lives, not to mention having memories of how much time Norman spent away from the family securing their empire. As disappointed as he was with her for having an affair with Robert, Tony couldn't hate his mother for it, so he wasn't going to contradict what Norman was saying. The couple had drifted apart and Dorothy found her way into another man's arms. What hurt Tony the most was that it had to be Robert Walker. The enemy. An enemy who at the time of the affair had been posing as an ally.

When Sully asked for clarification from Norman that he knew about the affair, Tony felt his jaw tense as he clenched his fists. Their father have knowingly raised Rory as his own and never told anyone he knew the truth. Tony wasn't sure he'd have had the same restraint. He'd have wanted to make Robert pay for such a betrayal. Tony raised his eyebrows and looked Norman head on when he expressed his gratitude for seeing to it that Charles was killed. His father was of the belief that he had been behind the assassination of Robert's eldest and in that moment, Tony didn't have the heart to correct him. Given that their survival in Birmingham presently relied on working with the Walkers, Tony decided his father's satisfaction could ensure the fragile peace between the families was maintained.

Tony had questions for his father, but they were once more pushed aside when Norman said he would keep an eye on Marco for them. It gave him some relief to hear that, given how concerned he'd been about him since his arrest. "Thanks, Dad. Marco's as loyal as they come. He's one of us and has proved himself a true Fletcher plenty of times. He's not quite built for a place like this, though," he admitted. "And him an' Penny are pretty sweet on each other, so I think it'd give her some relief to know he's being looked after."

Tony was aware the visit would be ending soon, but he couldn't leave without saying what was on his mind. "But before we're done... I need to know. When did you find out the truth? And how? And why didn't you say anything in all this time?!" he firmly asked Norman.

BeyondDandy (Sully, Norman)

 

[BasDorcha]

The Vixen

- Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England -​

Alfred Walker

Alfie watched his sister, a soft smile on his face. Felicity was stubborn, hard headed, intense, and always seemed to get the short end of the stick. Charles was always the golden boy. Alfie, well he had well and fully abused second child privileges over the year, staying off the radar as both a boy and a younger sibling. Felicity being the oldest daughter had taught her to be rougher around the edges - she had been the first girl to bear the brunt of the Walker lineage and oldest son. Diana? She was the baby girl, and had the tenderness of one. And Thomas, well, he was the baby period. None of them really lived up to Robert's standards, but it progressively got worse the younger the child was.

As his eyes met her, still holding a gentleness towards his sister in his eyes, he tipped the corners of his mouth up and leaned in. The tone of his voice was one of understanding and patience as he explained to her exactly why he was 'keen on helping' her. "For starters, your my sister, do I need a reason to help you? Secondly, I know what it's like to live under the Walker Shadow. I've watched you for years trying to prove yourself and I've seen you succeed over and over again. Do I like what you've done this time? Not particularly, but what's done is done. Now you have to help clean up the mess, even if it means not taking the position you want. You have to stand up to dad, just like me, to show him we are adult enough to handle this even if it's not his wishes. Besides, I need someone I trust, and I trust you. I always will. You're my sister, Felicity. No matter what happens, City, I will always support you. I'm not dad, I'm not blind, and I know we'd be letting a good thing go by not utilizing that mind of yours. Screw what dad thinks, he put me in charge of this, so it should be my call - and I'm making it."

He waited to see her response. They had details to get through if she accepted and a limited amount of time before the next shipment to get it together and in order. He fingered a folder of detailed pages and plans before him, waiting to see what she'd say. His mind wandered a bit, thinking again about all the events over the last half a year. He struggled down a swallowed breath - there was so much to process. He wanted to wrap up this portion, get the necessity out of the way, so he could maybe just spend some time decompressing with Felicity.

"Common, you agree, we'll get the business shit out of the way, and then me and you will go have a pint and cry into our cups about all the bullshit going on until it no longer bothers up. What do you say?"

 

[purplecowdutch]

View attachment 1189056Jackie Walker - walker house - neverbackdown


Robert wasn´t impressed with Jackie´s remark about Vinny and that definitely struck a chord with Jackie. He asserted that he was there because he wanted him there, Robert's eyes piercing right through him.
When he sat up straight, Jackie leaned down in his chair a bit. He didn't fear Robert but he was easily triggered by the man. He didn't even remember them ever talking when he was a kid, Robert was always busy and his father didn't talk too highly of him either. If his father had been here, Alfie had been the one to have to beg for a job that didn't give him any sleepless nights.

Jackie listened with half an ear to whatever Robert was saying while the other half got stuck on the part where he said he did not take it seriously enough.
Jackie played with a little vilt laying around on the desk, flipping it in between his two fingers while Robert told him off about his aunt. He upset Caroline? Jackie shook his head immediately, scoffing it off.
'Great,' he mumbled in himself when Robert, the holy grace himself, was offering him to work with Vinny.

Jackie gave Vinny a poisonous look and stroke his hands through his hair as he pretended to think about what Robert said but he was thinking very little. Somehow Jackie was waiting for Vinny to actually answer his follow up question if he was willing to work with him on this. This situation couldn't get more insane.

'Sure boss, I can do that, but I have a few questions first.' And just like that, it got even more insane.
Jackie faced Vinny who had turned to him with his devilish black eyes, there was no soul to be found behind those eyes. The guy was nuts and it gave Jackie the shivers every now and then.

Vinny brought up him getting clean and also called him a drug addict, Jackie scoffed again, this time a bit louder and sharing a gaze with Robert as if to say can you believe this guy?
Vinny gave a friendly smile to his uncle, while Jackie had probably a pretty confused gaze over all. He wasn't an addict, but a line of coke wouldn't hurt right now.
'Listen, this is insane. I-' Jackie had a hard time finding his words and shoved the chair backwards making a loud peeping sound.
'I'm not a fucking kid, if I have to work with this guy-' he turned to Robert to make sure Robert knew he meant business. 'If I have to work with Vinny, I better get paid like Vinny,' he argued and sat back in the chair. He investigated Robert's every move, Jackie was being a bit paranoid and felt more locked in by the second.
'If Charles was here, he wouldn't have done this to me. He would've told me I'd get what I deserve which is a shit ton more than what I'm getting now,' he said although there wasn't a lot of certainty with the words he was saying. It was risky but Jackie wasn't sure what the best option was between dying and working with Vinny and that said something.
'I'm clean,' Jackie added onto his words. 'But I'm not going to pee in a fucking cup to prove it to anyone, over my dead body.'

 

[Misty Gray]

HM Prison Birmingham
- Winson Green, Birmingham, England -

Marco Alessi​

Marco knowingly nodded along when Penny said her family were up to their own drama. That wasn't a surprise - the Fletchers always had something going on. Whether it was squabbling between siblings or causing trouble in the pub, they seemed to thrive on a bit of drama. He awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck when he heard Tony and Alfie had sat down together. It sounded like progress and a step in the right direction. However, Marco couldn't ignore the fact Tony would never have been able to sit down with Charles in a proactive way. It didn't make killing the man in question any easier to swallow, but he couldn't help that acknowledge Alfie's promotion was a direct consequence of Charles dying.

Marco practically choked on his own deep intake of breath when he heard Rory was Robert's daughter. As he coughed to clear his throat, he noticed one of the guards watching him closely. Once he got himself back under control, the guard averted his piercing stare elsewhere. "How? I mean... It's obvious how. But your mother and Robert?!" he asked. After all of the times Rory, and often himself, had spent getting on the Walker boss's nerves, it was almost funny in retrospect. But really, it was all far from a joke.

"Your family is very complicated," he agreed, managing a small smile. "We can't pick our family and blood isn't everything. My parents are my blood but they're nothing to me, but you Fletchers are everything," he pointed out. "How's Rory taking it? I can't imagine it's easy for her to learn she's got Walker blood, no matter how much she'll always be a Fletcher," he reasoned. "And how are you taking it?" he asked, seeing Penny was stressed by it all. "She is still Rory, you do believe that, don't you?" he probed deeper. "I wish I could be there too," he echoed her words in a more resigned tone.

"My own conscience aside. One of the reasons I had to come clean about killing Charles was to protect Tony and the rest of you from the Walkers. I couldn't have them keep blaming your brother for it. And whilst it's never going to be a good thing that your mum and Robert... you know... maybe the truth about Rory will help keep the Walkers in a good place with you all. And if you ever need a voice of reason from that side, there's always Richard - the Mayor. I suspect Robert would have had me dead and buried by now if it wasn't for Richard."

Marco reached out and rested his hand on Penny's wrist. "You're allowed to get worked up over all of this. There's a lot going on. But you'll all get through it. It'll take more than this to knock you Fletchers down," he reassured her.

BasDorcha (Penny)

 

[Misty Gray]

The Walker Residence
- Edgbaston, Birmingham, England -

Robert Walker​

Robert stayed silent as he awaited the questions Vinny wanted to ask about working with Jackie. The mention of his nephew being a drug addict came as no surprise. Even if he'd been too preoccupied over recent months to focus on it, Robert was very much aware of Jackie's love for drugs. The younger man was hardly discreet.

"Well, as long as what you are saying and doing is for the purpose of Jackie's development and growth within my business, then I too would expect him to listen," he said, focusing on Jackie as he spoke the latter words.

Robert held back and allowed Jackie to let off some steam. The sound of the chair scraping on the floor grated on him, but other than tightening his jaw, he let it go. His nephew went on, soon sitting back in his seat after making pay demands. Then, Jackie had the nerve to mention Charles and how he would have supposedly championed him. Finally, Jackie claimed to be clean. Thankfully, he was done throwing fuel onto the fire after that.

"Okay. Now you've finished..." Robert said, sitting up straight and staring at his nephew as if searching for something. In fact, he was. He was trying to find some explanation for his nephew's consistently delusional attitude. "Don't lie to me, Jackie. I'm not an idiot. I know damn well you're not clean. Charles might have been your friend and tried to keep you involved in the business, but he would have called you out on it too. I know a junkie when I see one and Charles would have too. Stop lying to me and to yourself, and get clean." Through Richard's own drug addiction over two decades ago, Robert had knowledge and experience of the subject. He'd helped his brother get clean and it wasn't easy nor pleasant. Even if he had time to, he wouldn't commit to helping his nephew in the same way. Jackie was ungrateful and spiteful towards him, whereas Richard was his brother, who he respected, and the need to help him was natural.

"You will knock the drugs on the head, Jackie. Then you stand a better chance at being useful working with Vinny. You will get paid what you earn and that's non-negotiable. Work as hard as Vinny, then we'll talk," he asserted. "I don't agree with nepotism, but listen, Jackie. Were you not family, you'd have been cut loose from this business long ago. I won't give out any more free chances."

"Vinny," Robert said, snapping his attention to the man in question. "Would you be willing to help Jackie get prove he's clean? I mean, if he really is, then not touching any drugs again will be a walk in the park," he said, glancing at Jackie.

BasDorcha (Vinny) purplecowdutch (Jackie)

 

[Misty Gray]

The Vixen
- Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham, England -

Felicity Walker​

Felicity smirked when Alfie said he didn't need a reason for helping his sister. "Ah, you're soft. That's not how this business works," she sarcastically told him. Still, she kept a serious expression when he went on to explain his own experience living under the Walker Shadow. Whilst she felt he'd still had more opportunities and faith put in him than she had, she couldn't deny he'd had a taste of not being treated as capable.

"I'm not afraid of standing up to Dad and I have done before. I will again, too," she assured him. "But the problem is I'm not you. I'm not Charles. He may have married a strong and powerful woman like Mum, but I'm convinced he just doesn't trust my capabilities because I'm a woman. He wanted me to be out dancing on stage like the perfect daughter. Out of harm's way and helping maintain the myth we're a decent family."

Stopping her rant, she let out a sigh and met Alfie's gaze. "Of course you can trust me. And let's face it, I'm the smartest person in our family. Between you and Dad being weak around women; Mum having questionable sanity for sticking with him; Diana being some free-spirited hippy; and Thomas being Thomas... I'm the only one with my head screwed on," she drily told him. She ran her fingers through her hair. "If you're willing to put your neck on the line for me, then that's your call. Either way. You know I want in on all of this," she decisively told him.

She chewed her lip when Alfie mentioned getting business out of the way so they could decompress. She let out a deep sigh, not sure if either of them were ready for that. With everything going on lately, she'd found alcohol and late nights out with her friends had been a more enjoyable way to deal with her personal troubles. Or at least, it helped drown it all out. "I say it'll take more than a pint," she remarked.

BasDorcha (Alfie)