Realistic or Modern The Roaring Twenties - IC Thread

[Misty Gray]

The Roaring Twenties
IC Start Date: Friday 14th August 1925

IC THREAD


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This RP will follow the lives of a rich and powerful organised crime family residing in Queens, NYC. With the ageing Marino Family patriarch, Salvatore, rumoured to be stepping down in the coming years, attention has turned to who will replace him in the family business. Between his children and trusted underboss, any one of them could take his place. The challenge is to receive both his recommendation and the support of most others within the organisation.

STARTING SOON...​

 

[Misty Gray]

Prologue

Salvatore and Margaret Marino
(Written by ReverseTex ft. Misty Gray )​

Another trip around the Sun, or so they liked to say… Birthdays were always a weird concept. As a boy, his father never made a fuss about them. A simple clasp on the shoulder was all he earned for making it out of another year. His mother, on the other hand, liked to bake something. Usually small and in the evenings after work. It wasn’t grandiose or particularly delicious, but it was made with love. But that was a different time. His children had it differently. Margaret liked to fawn over the children. In fact, he had to admit he enjoyed it in their younger years. But he always hated it when it was his turn. Simply because it was never just time with family. People of all kinds slithered out of the woodworks to kiss his ring, trying to make a good impression. Even his own family. They all wanted something from him. Bullshit.

At least for now, in the early morning hours before the sun’s official break, Sal quietly played his piano. He didn’t like to wake his wife, but he knew it was a sound she grew accustomed to over the years. The soft and silent concerts he played to process his thoughts. As his fingers worked, he had to accept today’s situation. He was having a birthday party, like it or not. He’d have to stomach the boring small talk and the constant back and forth of work and play.

The sound of footsteps caught his ear, causing him to immediately stop mid-melody. He glanced upward from the keys, spotting his darling wife down the stairs already. “And who might this dazzling dame be? I’m taking tips,” Sal teased, extending a hand to the lid of the piano where a hat or jar might have sat. Margaret’s prowl to the bench cued him to slide over, making a space for her to sit. The tune picked itself up again, this time more calming and quieter now that he played the keys softer. He was dreading hearing the words from her—the one’s he’d have to stomach all day. As he played, he dipped his head down to rest his head on her shoulder. “You get to say it once. It loses its meaning from you after that.”

Seated beside her husband, Margaret maintained her smile as he rested his head on her shoulder. Listening to the music playing, she couldn't help but grin when he told her she could only say what needed to be said once. "Oh, come on. Yours is the last birthday party I get to organise for a while. I might even have to wait until Thanksgiving to arrange our next family get-together," she said, playfully pouting. "Very well... Happy birthday, love," she told him, briefly turning her head so she could place a kiss on top of his.

Growing up, birthdays for the Harrington siblings were played down. There were gifts and cards, along with birthday wishes, but Margaret's father was keen to keep it all to a minimum and maintain a serious household. She'd always wanted her own kids to enjoy birthdays and look forward to them, so she always made sure to celebrate and make the most of the special days for each of them. "I'm afraid you will have to sit through having it sang to you. I've already asked Anastasia to play "Happy Birthday" to you later," she said, pointing to the piano.

Gazing out of the window, she anticipated their guests arriving later in the day. She thrived on these occasions and the opportunity to socialise with others, as well as getting all of their family together, but she knew her husband found such affairs unappealing. "You'll do fine today. Worst case scenario, you can have a recharge break in our room - that’s the beauty of the party being held at home," she mischievously told him.

The kiss was all Sal needed to wash most of his nerves away. Margaret always had a way with him. She was the breath in his sails. Without her, well, that wasn’t a thought he entertained... Picking his head off her shoulder, his lazy melody slowly ended. With age, his fingers grew heavier and stiffer. “This poor piano. It’s played the likes of Beethoven and Bach, and now it has to put up with "Happy Birthday?” Damn shame.” He teased.

Having sat on the piano bench for some time now, he stood up with a long stretch. As he did so, he heard his wife’s encouragement distantly. Social graces weren’t his strong suit, and she knew that. Even with age, it still wasn’t something he was fond of. With the kids, it was different. But extended family and guests? He’d rather pull teeth. The quip about the bedroom caused his lip to curl in a wry smile, his scar tugging at the crook of his grin. “Maybe it should be my birthday more often. If I got that privilege at every event you dragged me to, I think we’d need a bigger house.”

From her seat on the bench, Sal hugged her from behind. Dipping down, he planted a complementary kiss on her head. “I’ll manage. I always do.” He simply put. “But I always have fires to put out. And those don’t stop just because I got a year older.” It would be foolish of him to assume his associates would come empty-handed to his party. Business proposals, problems, whatever it may be. There was always something.

ReverseTex @neverbackdown @NanLia @myrkwise @ZarbofftheFirst @Pagemaster @Jigajig @Saix

 

[Misty Gray]

Chapter 1 - Happy Birthday
- Friday 14th August 1925 -
Mid-Afternoon - Warm, Clear Skies

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The Marino Residence
- Queens, New York City -

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Benjamin Marino​

The tenth anniversary of Rosemary's death was fast approaching, which meant the memories and darker feelings were lurking within Benjamin's household. His daughters had almost gone ten years without their mother in their lives - they'd now lived longer without her than they had with. That reality barely made it any easier. Nor did the media. Benjamin was still reeling from having a journalist show up at his house a few days ago requesting an interview with him about his wife's unsolved murder. He'd given the man nothing, but it had since become clear an article was being published on the anniversary, with or without his input. Benjamin knew that would mean old wounds being reopened, not to mention unwanted attention being directed back towards him and the girls. As long as the crime went unsolved, he knew there would always be someone directing suspicion his way.

Today was Salvatore's birthday, so Benjamin knew to push his own concerns aside for the sake of the day. He knew his father wouldn't want too much of a fuss, but he was also aware his mother would be counting on the day running smoothly. For both of their sakes, Benjamin would put on a strong front to help ensure everyone; family and business associates alike, had nothing to complain about. The Marinos would deliver a memorable day, for good reasons only.

Once his daughters were ready, Benjamin ushered them into his car and set off to his parents' house. It wasn't a long drive, but there was still an uncomfortable silence before he spoke up. "Make sure to wish your grandfather a happy birthday. Hell, sing it to him!" he playfully suggested as he watched the road ahead of him. "I can't get away with it, but you two can!" He briefly glanced between Cassandra and Kathryn, a grin planted on his face.

Even when he was back to focusing on the road, the tone of his next words made it clear he was no longer smiling. "On a serious note, I do need you both to be vigilant. If anyone starts asking questions about our family, who isn't a part of it, then tell them nothing. Those damned--" he began, stopping short given Cassandra's chosen career path for the newspaper. "Those reporters won't stop simply because I've told them to stay away, and I can't be completely sure if everyone at the party can be trusted to be sensitive," he said, keeping his tone controlled.

Once they arrived at their destination, Benjamin parked the car outside the large brownstone house and climbed out of the vehicle. When the girls were both out of the car, he gave each of them a hug before walking into the house with them. It didn't take him long to peer out of the living room window to see Salvatore out in the garden, likely enjoying the peace and quiet before everyone began to arrive. "You girls go on and get settled whilst I catch the birthday boy alone for a moment," he told them.

Stepping out into the garden, Benjamin removed his suit jacket and hung it over the bench, slotting the envelope into the side pocket for the time-being. As he approached his father, he pushed up his shirt sleeves, the summer heat and his formal wear not the best of matches. "How's it going?" he asked, deciding not to overdo the birthday wishes. "No doubt you're thrilled about today," he teased, flashing a boyish smile.

With: ReverseTex (Salvatore)

Margaret Marino​

Even if Salvatore wasn't enthusiastic about his birthday and a fuss being made, Margaret still wanted to make sure everything was perfect. Of course, a good impression needed to be made for their guests, but it wasn't the only factor. She mostly wanted everything to be perfect for her husband and family. She always believed that if she was doing something, then she had to do it right and to the best of her ability. Naturally skilled when it came to party planning and hosting, it was to be expected she would go all out. The house and garden were decorated to Salvatore's taste. The food and drinks were all carefully selected. Though she had a small team of waiting staff there to assist throughout the day, Margaret still couldn't help but walk through the house and garden with a fine-toothed comb to manage everything.

After checking on the flowers in the back garden, where the main party would be held, she then moved to the front of the house to check in with their security. Before she could be seen, her heels clicking along the side path of the house drew attention to her presence. Standing watch close to the front door, Elijah moved to meet the woman. "It's warm today. Make sure you stay hydrated," she told the trusted guard, smoothing out her dress as she spoke. Her words were met with a light laugh from Elijah but he still nodded his head, having by now learned to accept her advice... Or was it fussing? Either way, he wouldn't contradict her logic. Both of their eyes briefly landing on Benjamin and the two young women as they arrived at the house. Margaret sent them a loving wave but made it clear she would catch up with her son and granddaughters inside. "My sons and Gabriella will likely be drinking today," she continued to address Elijah, prompting him to focus back on her. "They're not to drive home unless I say so."

"Of course, Margaret. I'll be able to take anyone home that needs a ride," Elijah assured her.

Once she was satisfied, Margaret returned into the house where she could best greet their guests and ensure everything was going well.

OPEN FOR INTERACTION

Elijah Wilson​

Despite Margaret's comments about the heat, Elijah didn't mind the warm summer days. Born and raised in Texas, he was used to hot weather. He wanted to cling on dearly to this summer - his favourite season - for as long as he could.

Focusing back on his duties, he once against positioned himself close to the front door so he could observe the guests as they arrived at the house and help them park their cars if needed. Today's shift was certainly one of his easier and more relaxed ones. Still, he would choose his most risky and physically intense jobs over the life he'd left behind. Texas already seemed a whole lifetime ago - a lifetime he wouldn't have had if he hadn't fled when he did. Grateful for every day he woke up in New York City, he had yet to be met with a requests or a command that he wasn't willing to do. The Marinos had welcomed him into their circle and the least he could give in return was his loyalty.

Elijah was certain today would go without a hitch, but he still remained focused, watching as the next arrivals made their way towards the house.


OPEN FOR INTERACTION

Anastasia Robinson​

Anastasia had woken that morning to find another letter had been slipped under the door of her apartment. She knew it was from Lloyd by the handwriting of her name alone. So of course the letter inside contained some weird poem written by the infatuated man. She stopped reading partway through and instead shoved the paper in the drawer with the previous letter. The cops weren't interested, so she knew it was pointless reporting Lloyd again.

It had taken a while to calm her nerves, but she eventually forced herself to get ready for Salvatore's birthday party. Margaret had asked her if she'd play something on the piano as part of the celebration and she of course agreed. Granted, she was a little intimidated about playing on Salvatore's beloved piano. Perhaps he'd talk his wife out of the idea before she got to the house and any apprehension would be washed away.

Anastasia arrived at the Marino house on time, paying the cab driver before stepping out of the vehicle. Walking tall and elegantly, she carried a natural smile on her face. Despite her bad morning, she now felt relaxed and excited about the party. She wasn't sure who else would be there, but she was close enough to the Marino family to feel comfortable showing up alone. She politely thanked Elijah as he opened the door for her and she then stepped into the house.

After placing the birthday card and box of fancy chocolates on the gift table, she made her way deeper into the house to see who had already arrived.

OPEN FOR INTERACTION

Active Cast: Misty Gray ReverseTex @neverbackdown @NanLia @myrkwise @ZarbofftheFirst @Pagemaster @Jigajig @Saix

 

[ReverseTex]

The Marino Residence
Misty Gray
Salvatore Marino​

As expected, Margaret didn’t spare any expense or leave any stone unturned in the house for his party. Green streamers, his favorite color, lined each doorway of the house and hall to the garden. Everything was particularly tidy, and the kitchen was set up as a self-service bar rather than a place to cook. The back garden was where the main event was. The flowers were meticulously manicured, sharing their last bit of vivace before their autumn’s rest. Despite its gaudiness, Sal appreciated the gesture. Even if he couldn’t stand half of the people in attendance, he was thankful to have a family who showed up for him.

In lieu of the events, Salvatore kept himself classy. To match the green decor, he wore a leisurely collared green short-sleeve shirt. Paired with freshly pressed grey slacks and black loafers. It was his house after all, so full pageantry wasn’t expected. Plus, with the warm weather, he didn’t want to be hot and socially uncomfortable at the same time.

Before the party truly began, he took some time to himself in the garden. Fresh air and a quiet moment before the storm would make a great deal of difference. In his moment of solace, he closed his eyes. All of this around him was his. He built this. From a single box truck and a pipe dream, now wallowing in his riches like a fat cat. Part of him enjoyed the ease of things. Retirement could be any day now, and he knew Margret wanted that. Their house in Sicily would be hundreds of miles away from the stress of New York. But just as much as he wanted to settle down, he knew he could do more. There was always more to do and more money to make. This city reinvigorated him each day. And deep down, he enjoyed the hustle more than he liked to admit.

The back door creaked open. Likely his wife summoning him to greet the first guest. When he turned his head around, it was none other than his son, Benjamin. A warm smile washed over him as he turned himself to face his son. It always surprised him how broad his two older boys were, simply because he hadn’t been that way. Sure, in his youth he was lean and still lean now in older age, but never as muscular as Ben or Frank. “Good to see you, son.” He smiled, bringing him in for a hug. “Are the girls inside with Mom?” He asked once the embrace was through, assuming his granddaughter was around somewhere.

Once he took in Benjamin’s formality, Salvatore chuckled. “I’m really underdressed for my party eh?” He jested. “It’s been a good day; no complaints so far. You know how your mother is, always dotting her I’s and crossing her T's with this sort of thing. Easier to let her enjoy herself.” He crossed his arms comfortably. “Any business I ought to know about before this kicks off?” At the drop of a dime, his tone switched. When business was on the table, his cool and methodical persona dominated the meeker, simple one.

 

[Misty Gray]

The Marino Residence
- Queens, New York City -

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Benjamin Marino​

Benjamin returned his father's hug, briefly patting his back in the process. Once they'd both pulled away from the gesture, Salvatore then enquired about his granddaughters. "They're both inside, though Mom was out front when I got here. Either coddling or bossing Elijah," he lightly remarked. "The girls will no doubt come find you later. I told them to lay the birthday wishes on thick, just for you."

The comment about his formal attire prompted Benjamin to smooth out his shirt in that moment, the movements only accentuating the outlines of his biceps beneath the white material. Between work, formal gatherings, and the odd date or night out with his friends, it wasn't often he dressed down. So he was certainly going to make an effort for Salvatore's birthday.

Unsurprisingly, the conversation soon turned serious with the question about business. Benjamin was quick to shake his head. "Nothing new, Dad. Everything's running smoothly at the moment, so we can switch off, just for today," he assured him. Benjamin was committed to the business and struggled to switch off from it, but Salvatore even more so. So if there was one day his father could relax at least a little, surely today was it.

"Whilst I still have the chance..." As he spoke, Benjamin reached into his jacket pocket and retrieved the birthday card so he could hand it to Salvatore. When his father opened it, he would find two theatre tickets enclosed. "From me and the girls," he told him. It was always difficult buying for a man who could seemingly get anything he wanted, but Benjamin hoped the gesture was enough for Salvatore, who was fond of the arts.

ReverseTex (Salvatore)