Realistic or Modern Empire City: Weekly Character AMA

Fletchawk · Jul 11, 2019

Bellz

Next Week's AMA: ???

Every week (roughly), I'll pick someone from those that have chosen to participate, seemingly at random, to answer questions either in character, or about the character while OOC.

In most cases, the person will be announced a week before their character's AMA will start.
During this week, if the person has more than one character, there will be a poll on which character.
Once a character's AMA has begun, everyone else in the Empire City RP may ask questions to, or about the character.
Each person may ask up to five (5) questions, and they may be addressed to the character or the roleplayer, like so
>Character Name< : How many Snickers bars have you stolen?
>Roleplayer Name< : Why is >Character Name< so rude?
The AMA will last until the next week, when another character is chosen. So make sure to get your questions in early!
If for whatever reason, you can't participate after being announced, or there is a character you wish to be excluded from the list, let me know.

So without further ado, let's get this shindig started. ALSO, if you're just here for the answers, turn on Reader Mode in the Index.

Bellz

Bugsy

Enzyme

Misty Gray · Jul 12, 2019

Arlene Sullivan

Arlene: How did you get caught by the East Harlem gang?
I was on my way to the night shift at the casino. I'd left Olivia with the babysitter and was heading to my car in the parking lot before I was grabbed by two of the blokes. I tried to fight off the bastards, but they were too strong and I hadn't been able to reach for my gun in time. I did manage to scratch a chunk of flesh off one of the guys' cheeks with my fingernails! Then, I was knocked out and presumably bundled into the van I'd seen parked close by.

Misty: What were some to changes to Arlene's character after taking her over from
When I agreed with Enzyme to take Arlene on back in Family Affair I didn't want to change too much of his creation. We discussed her history and how she was adopted by the Sullivans, so I built up on that. One thing I never did touch on, which I was told of later, was that Enzyme had intended on Arlene being attracted to women. It's not something I covered when playing her.

For the present RP, I obviously added more history to her. Mainly, her relationship with Julian which resulted in the birth of Olivia before he was killed in jail. This led to her change of heart after his and Liam's death, where she chose to lay low and build up a secure home for Olivia - something she had never had. Before she was killed, Arlene had been in a serious enough relationship with a law-abiding man named Patrick.

Arlene: Did you manage to reconnect with Liam before his death?
Yes, I moved back to America in 1962. After the IWU were wiped out, I stuck around but I never felt challenged enough. James seemed to have things under control and didn't really give me any juicy jobs to carry out. I didn't put up too much of an argument, if I'm honest. I know Carter Dresden was a prick and loyal to the IWU, but we connected before the union was all blown up. I suppose it felt wrong to demand being included in James' business when I'd kept such a secret from everyone.

When I got back to New York, I offered my help to Liam and he seemed happy to have me back. He'd forgiven me for screwing up the hit on Ethan Turner and it seemed like he needed someone else he could trust by his side. When I fell pregnant with Olivia, I stepped back from Liam's business and tried to settle down for Olivia's sake. Liam came to see us a few times before he was killed.

Arlene: Weapon of choice?
Other than my tongue? I always favoured a sniper rifle. No need to get personal about the job.

Misty: Why kill off Arlene?
There were a few reasons why I decided to kill Arlene. The first reason was simply that the East Harlem Gang were going to kill someone and it needed to be a main character; one important to the Porter family. Given that Arlene was the one who wounded Ethan and killed his wife back in 1957, when Liam Sullivan was running things, there was the personal desire for revenge on Ethan's part. The initial reason Arlene came to mind, however, was in conversation with Bella where she said Lucy wanted to adopt another child. Well, now Arlene is dead, Olivia is a little orphan girl...

Fletchawk

A long time ago, you found yourself romantically involved with one of the deadliest enemies of the Porters, Carter Dresden. When you look back to that time, how do you feel about it? Was it something you took to the grave?
Whilst I hated betraying my family, my feelings for Carter were at the time genuine. After I was forced by that smarmy prick, Jared, to spend time in Carter's company, I ended up spending a lot of time talking with the guy. Carter understood the crappy childhood I'd had because he'd experienced similar. I think what really sold it for me was when he bought me the music box for Christmas, after I told him about how I'd longed for one as a child whose parents never bought me any toys. It was thoughtful and sentimental. Ignoring the fact we worked for each others'' enemies, both Carter and I understood each other. I took my relationship with him to the grave. Had he not been killed with the rest of the IWU, I might have come clean, but I guess we'll never truly know, will we?

Back in Dublin you were always keen to carry out work for James, but once you had moved back to the US you distanced yourself somewhat from the rest of the mob. What were your personal reasons for moving? Family, business or something else?
I started to consider distancing myself from the business when I fell pregnant, though I was still keen to help Liam out even then. But when Julian was arrested and then died in prison, I realised I was the only one around for Olivia. With so many enemies of my own and Liam making even more, I decided I had to move away from New York. I had a shitty childhood and my parents neglected me, so the last thing I wanted was for Olivia to have the same. I wanted her to be safe and that meant I couldn't keep pissing off dangerous people.

Who would shorten your name to Arlie? Was it a nickname you liked?
My old man, Jack Sullivan, was the first to shorten my name. I liked Jack and he used it in an endearing way, so how could I not like it?

What did you spend most of your time doing after you settled back in the US?
I reconnected with Liam, who had by then forgiven me for not killing Ethan Turner. I carried out a few jobs for him, including a couple of successful hits on his request! Whilst working for my brother, I met Julian during that time and soon enough I fell pregnant with Olivia. When I gave up working for the mob, I settled down in Connecticut with Olivia. I found work in a casino over there and met a guy named Patrick. He was a good guy and he didn't care about my past. He'd never broken the law in his life and I surprisingly liked that about him. I was ready for stability so Olivia could have a loving home and maybe eventually I'd have let Patrick get to know her more. The closest thing I could get to a normal family.

Would you say you feel fulfilled after the life you had? (Or is there someone you intend to haunt the shit out of?)
Had I not have Olivia, I'd have said my life was fulfilled enough and I'd have accepted my inevitable premature death. However, it wasn't fulfilled, was it? I never got to see Olivia grow up and all I could do was hope my family would be able to take care of her.

Oh, I fully intend on haunting the shit out of Alistair and Ethan. Fuck those guys...

Pyroclast

Pyroclast · Jul 21, 2019

Syd Porter

Pyro: How has your adoration for Mr. Stan (Syd's FC) affected Syd's personality, if at all?

Very interesting question! I actually often wonder about this myself so it doesn't surprise me that you're wondering too. On the whole I wouldn't say that it affects how I write Syd. He's a character I've grown deeply attached to and I believe I know him well enough to justify his actions, the way he thinks and every aspect of his personality in general. Anyone can tell I care about him a lot, he means something special to me and I can't deny I have an adoration for Sebastian Stan that has lead to him meaning something special to me too, but I actually find it very easy to keep the two separate, especially since I became actively involved with Stan's expansive fan base. I never use Syd to play out any kind of fantasies - all of his story and development has been written without any influence from his FCs. There are some interesting parallels that run between Syd and one or two of the characters that Stan has played, but I think that's because he tends to play quite emotional, troubled characters, which fits well with Syd. At the time of choosing the FC however, I hadn't seen much of Stan's work at all so it kind of turned out to be a lucky coincidence. I never base what I'm writing off a certain picture or gif, because writing my characters realistically is much more important to me than having a suitable FC. Having said that, I don't believe there's anyone that would visually represent Syd better than Sebastian at this stage in his life.

Syd: What is your biggest pet peeve?

That patronising tone of voice people put on when they're trying to put themselves above you. God, it just really gets to me. I've done a lot of shit I'm not proud of, and I know I need help sometimes, but I know what I'm doing. I have no time for smug bastards that wanna tread on me. I'm a grown man and if you don't treat me like one you can expect to get punched in the face. Or something to that effect.

Syd: Why have you chosen to stay in the family "business" when most of your other siblings did not?

Because it's important to me. Delilah and Mallory always used to try and get involved, but I think dad was a little more protective of them because they both had a habit of throwing themselves into dangerous situations without telling the rest of the mob. Sure they wanted to do their part, but Delilah wasn't the most sound of mind and Mal was too bold for her own good. So even though I really miss them, I'm glad they decided to go down other routes instead. That never made me want to leave, though. Working for the family was all I ever wanted to do. It teaches you a lot, gives you a reason to stay focused, keeps you on top of training. It gave me a sense of purpose and made me feel closer to my family, so all of that's really rewarding. There have been long periods where I've had to take time out and I always ended up just feeling totally useless and out of touch. So I don't think I could ever really let it go. It's part of my identity now.

Syd: Roxie or Skye? (Yes, you must choose.)

Jesus, really? Fucking hell... I mean, look, Roxie has made a big impression on me, I won't deny that. I do wanna see how far things can go with her because I actually like her a lot, I think she's sweet and fun and beautiful and everything I don't deserve. Plus, you know, I never imagined myself feeling like this about another woman so it's pretty crazy. But because there's so much standing between the two of us right now, I haven't got too attached yet. Thing is, if there is such a thing as 'the one' then I've already had mine. Roxie and I will only work if she can accept and respect that. I'm holding out hope for us, but right now my love for Skye remains unmatched. So yeah, if you want an answer to that fucked up question, then...it's gotta be Skye.

Pyro: What is one scene in the roleplay that you wanted, but never got?

Assuming you mean in Family Affair since we're not that far into Empire City, I think I'd have liked for Syd to meet Adam* again at some point. Syd has always been a very territorial person and therefore very protective of his sisters. He also didn't tend to get on too well with other guys his age so there would have been immediate conflict. It would also have been a natural way for Adam and Mallory's affair to get exposed to the mob. The reason it didn't happen was because with Never's decrease in activity, Mallory just wasn't available to interact with enough, so it probably would have lead nowhere and ended up being unfinished, which I always hate. Other than that, I'm satisfied with Syd's storyline.

*Adam was a close family friend of the Porters' rivals and son to someone who worked for them, and was in a secret relationship with Mallory Porter, Syd's sister.

From Fletchawk

Syd: How do you feel about your parents adopting you into their criminal lifestyle?

It's the best thing that ever happened to me. I mean, I guess it exposed me to some pretty scary shit that most kids don't have to witness, but after the bad start I got in Chicago I was already set apart from my classmates anyway. It has been traumatic at times, there are definitely some moments I wish I could wipe from my memory, but altogether I think my parents saved me from something far worse when they adopted me. I had nothing until I had them. So I didn't mind the crime. My parents became role models to me pretty early on, so I accepted the lifestyle as something I could get into. School was never gonna get me far 'cause I was a little shit, so even though I didn't really know what was going on, I always saw the business as a solid career path. None of my friends ever had anything like this to fall back on. I feel lucky, more than anything else.

Syd: If you could have any other job, what would it be? Why?

If I wasn't in the mob and I didn't have my nightclub? I'd probably go into motorsports. It's a bit of a fantasy but I'm good with cars, hot-rodding and specialised modification and shit, so I think it'd be cool to get involved in that industry. I could work for NASCAR! Maybe even get into racing myself... Don't tell my mam, though. She'd go ballistic!

Syd: If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

Honestly, I'm pretty happy where I am so this isn't really something I've ever thought about. I don't speak any other languages and I don't really like travelling so I haven't seen much of the world. I like cities, I like the action and being surrounded by people and always having something to do. I don't think I'd ever go back to Chicago unless my family moved there for some reason...Dublin has a lot of strong memories, but I don't think I could go back to living there, either. New York is kinda perfect for me, actually.

Pyro: Are there any characters you'd like to have Syd spend more scene time with?

There are several, actually. For me it's interesting because he acts so differently with each character that every scene is a chance for me to explore a side to him that he might not often show. I'd like to see him interact with the main members of the mob more, like Ryan and Conor and Peter, because their relationships would surely be quite different compared to how they were in Family Affair now that Syd is grown up and has a lot more experience in the mob and the business world. Savannah is another one, because they grew very close after Skye passed away and now that they have Roxie in common I think they could have some interesting scenes together. I'd also love to get more scene time with

Inb4Cloaker 's Farrid, because their friendship I would say is uniquely significant to Syd. So far, pretty much all the people he's been close to have been members of the family, which comes with a different dynamic. He's always had plenty of people to talk to, but aside from his love interests and his sisters, there haven't really been any his own age until now.

Syd: Has your family ever done anything that deeply disappointed you?

My sisters staying behind in Ireland, I guess. I'm not like, angry disappointed, because I want them to be happy and safe obviously, but I just miss them. We only had, what...16 years together? Yeah, not long enough. The selfish part of me wishes they'd come with us.

From Misty Gray

Pyro: What motivates you to break the standard mold of how a character should behave, meaning, what motivates you to write difficult characters?

Originality. I never want to be bored so each character has to have some unique qualities about them that helps me to figure out the driving force behind all their decisions, good and bad. But I think it's also realistic - people can be perfectly suited to something, but people also change and nobody is perfect at the end of the day. Currently Syd is my only character who has been trying to fit any kind of mold - Jason, Alistair and Danny don't care about fitting in and live by their own rules, but ever since he joined the mob Syd has been trying to meet the characteristics that being in the family business demands: professional, wise, courageous, selfless. And of course he's never quite fit them because he can't always tell what the best course of action to take is and his head can be too easily clouded by emotion, which affects a lot of his decisions. Syd is a challenging person yet very easy to write and I think that's because when a character is very complex you can be more specific in where their motives and lines of reasoning stem from. All the answers are already there in the form of his memories, experiences, beliefs, fears etc. so it kind of just writes itself. Just start creating without a mold, and the characters will always be unique.

Syd: Who is one person you can talk to about just anything and why?

Not counting Skye and the dogs? I wanna say my mam, but I think Maddox is probably the only one. He's the only person I can tell stuff to without being afraid of burdening him. Mam always wants to be there for me - well, usually - but I hate making her sad or worried. I want my dad to know what's going on, but I have to remind myself that he's the only one with the power to kick me out of the mob so that often puts me off going to him if I have a personal problem. If my counsellor can take my money, he can take all my other shit, too.

Syd: What is the one thing people always seem to misunderstand about you? Does it frustrate you? Why?

Oh man, that's really hard to tell. I know when I was younger I often used to feel underestimated, but in retrospect I think most people estimated me pretty accurately. Now I'm not really sure...Sometimes I think I give people the wrong idea, like if they see how well I get on with my mam they might think I'm soft and therefore easy to take down, or if they see me flip out they might think I'm just a horrible person. But you know, I don't really know what I am, so maybe if people judge for themselves it wouldn't be the worst thing. It would frustrate me most if any of the impressions I give off lead to me not being trusted to work in the mob, 'cause you know, that's my home. But it doesn't matter what I want, what I'm trying to do or where I'm trying to get to, 'cause at the end of the day people are gonna see what they see. I just can't really control that right now.

Syd: What is your biggest mistake so far in life? What did you learn from it?

I don't know if I should answer this...I mean, I have countless regrets and I've learned plenty of lessons. Getting myself sectioned was one of the worst things I've ever done, if that counts as a mistake? That taught me not to just try and deal with things on my own, but instead seek help before it's too late. And one thing I've learned from the business is that it's important to know who you're dealing with. When I first joined the mob I thought I was much bigger than I was, but the truth is I didn't understand shit about how this business really works. For example, you never pull out a gun in a fist fight when you're in unfamiliar territory, right? I put a lot of lives at risk that way and I've never forgotten it. From that night on I've been more careful to judge who I'm talking to and act accordingly.

Pyro: If you were to kill one of your characters off next chapter, who would it be and how would you do it?

First of all, Bella, what the fuck !! I've actually no idea what to say. Currently the only character whose death would have an impact on the plot, which is the only reason I'd want to kill off a character anyway, is Syd. But you and I have planned out so many upcoming scenes for him that it'd be too much of a waste to kill him in the next chapter. Bitch I wanna play out all the stuff we've planned! Jason's death would only impact Gwen, but it wouldn't be at its most effective right now if he were to die since she currently "hates" him. Danny hasn't got far enough with Savvy so his death would probably only affect Owen, who I think would advance in the story better with a friend to interact with. Alistair could die I guess, since he's at least had a small impact on the plot so far, but I still don't think next chapter would be a good time for it. Am I allowed to just go back to Ireland and kill Adam?

From Bellz

Syd: how satisfying was it to lay into Mitch in that now infamous stairwell? And looking back do you have any regrets about it?

Look, I won't lie, ever since that happened I've been trying not to think about it. It didn't feel great - well I guess maybe a little satisfying to put him in his place - but you know...he brought that out of me, with his smug fucking face and his high-and-mighty bullshit, and I can't say it felt good. It never really does. I don't regret it, though - I don't think I will unless he blabs to someone about what I did. What happened happened and I've got bigger things on my mind right now so I don't care how he's doing.

Pyro: What aspect of Syd do you find most enjoyable to RP?

Forgive me if this is a cheat answer, but I actually love working out the dynamics of each relationship he has. He can be fiercely angry and aggressive, confident, assertive, shy, vulnerable, childish, playful, happy, optimistic and pessimistic. It all depends on who he's talking to and I really love exploring that. Of all the aspects of writing a gangster rp (and writing in general) I think emotion is my strongest point, so playing a sensitive character suits me well. It makes torturing him fun, and then when I get to write a happy scene for him it makes me feel happy too.

Syd: If you were a sandwich, what type would you be?

Probably a really fucking gross one so no one would want to eat me and I'd get to live out my days watching the world go by through the deli window. Next time you go past Roddy's on 102nd street, you'll see some shitey footlong draped clumsily across two cake stands, going soggy and stale at the same rate. That's me, man. No one's getting their greasy hands on me.

From RayPurchase

Inb4Cloaker · Aug 1, 2019

Farrid Al-Assad

Farrid: What do you think about the Porters as employers and as friends?

“Hm, well, while they are my employers, above all, I have made some friends among the group. Strife brings people who would never originally be friends closer than brothers and sisters, and there’s been quite a lot of conflict in this business. As employers, the Porters have been fair with pay and relatively up-front about any tasks that I have to preform. I’m also able to rely on them to get me out of any uncomfortable predicament that I land myself in, and even those I do not know that well are kind enough to acknowledge me as a member of the organization and ally in arms. I assume most of them see it that way, I suppose.”

Mistee: Which characters are you most interested to have Farrid interact with?

I’d love to finally have a scene with Maddox, because I feel as though that would allow for more character development regarding the lifestyle and past of Farrid. I’d also like to see more interactions with Syd, kinda in a setting that is more business oriented or involving a job as well as casual, seeing as how their dynamic is already interesting, it’d be nice to see how they work together to accomplish a common goal. Aside from those two characters, I’m also interested to see how Farrid would interact with the Sarraf siblings, and the potential conflicts they would develop. Finally, I’d like to have more group gatherings like in the first scene, but with a more serious undertone like planning a job or discussing something that needs to be addressed in the organization. I’m also lowkey hoping for a group dinner with all the Porters so Farrid can make all the potato jokes he’s been holding for months.

Farrid: What is your biggest regret?

“This is hard to answer, because what really qualifies as the biggest regret one has? Everything I’ve done wrong, or that I wish I could take back, just seems to melt into one pot. As morbid as it sounds, I think my biggest regret is not being home with my family when it was shelled. Things may've been much simpler for myself and everyone else I encountered throughout my life. In reality, I might’ve saved more lives if I never picked up a rifle for a cause I didn’t completely understand myself. I could’ve saved my mother and father, and if not, I might’ve been too damaged to become a ‘freedom fighter.’ God, what a joke, those words are. My old man always called them terrorists, regardless of what they called themselves. Perhaps that was my biggest regret, actually. Being too easily persuaded to follow a lifestyle I know my mom and dad always fought to push me away from.”

Farrid: Who do you feel you are closest to?

“I don’t have any family to confide in, and if I were to exclude my friends back out east, I’d have to say that Bailey is the person I feel closest to. Syd is also there too, and he is like a brother to me though. But, in terms of who I feel the most connected to right now, it’d have to be Bailey. She’s kinda nuts, y’know, and she wanted to shoot me I think, but honestly, it wasn’t the worst outcome. I could’ve actually been shot. So long as she doesn’t try to kill me again, I think we might have something going!”

Farrid: How do you feel about Dante’s methods?

“Not my style, but a type of information extraction that I have partook in before, and have grown to understand over time. I’m hoping to push myself away from acts of harm, and while it is unrealistic to believe that everything can be solved without inflicting harm, it is still something I will continue to reach for. Make no mistake, I don’t like it, yet I know people like Dante are a requirement in some circumstances. One day, maybe he too will see that there are other ways to solve issues. In the meantime, I’ll just deal with it, and clean up the mess afterwards.”

Fletcheagle: What or who inspires your writing?

A long while ago, I did some OpFor/Nation Building rp’s on different sites. Usually, I kinda played the “neutral” party that was designed to just pose a challenge for the main players with nations. I.e, Farrid Al-Assad was actually a cell leader in one of the rp’s I did, and the main players fought against his forces and purged his insurrection that he started. Unfortunately, following a series of poor rolls with the online dice we all used, the nations who fought his organization were unable to follow Farrid and detain or try him for his crimes. So, I got to thinking when I joined the Mob rp, who could I use? I figured since Farrid’s story never ended in the first rp, I brought him back in this one. Albeit, he isn’t the exact same as he was in the other one, but he is pretty similar overall.

Farrid: Are there some American customs that still boggle your mind?

“Eh, not that much anymore. Before I arrived here, I traveled to a few other places out east, and they were fairly diverse. I learned about western culture before I showed up, and had a fairly general understanding of how things worked here, so I wasn’t too surprised. Aside from the minor sense of impending doom I first got when standing in large crowds upon arrival, everything was smooth sailing. I’m glad everything is a bit more tame in terms of political stability compared to back home, since it got tired of tracking who was trying to overthrow what, but that’s about it. Actually, there is one thing. I still don’t understand why you tip people at restaurants.”

Fletchcanary: What drew you to this rp?

Some time ago, I saw the predecessor to this RP. A Family Affair was something that looked really interesting, but I saw it way too late, and thought that if another option to join showed up, I’d hop in. Well, I was lucky enough to check before all slots got filled and leaped on in. I’m happy with how to RP is going, and the premise is pretty unique to me, so it had my attention pretty quick. I also liked how it was long lasting, and didn’t end after only a few posts, so that was a huge plus to me.

Farrid: Everyone has that "unachievable" goal, what's yours?

“I want peace. I want people to lower their weapons, and seek respite in being able to not worry about another person gunning to take a life. Right now, I’m trying to achieve that goal for myself. One day, I’ll walk along the sands of Iraq and Syria again, and I won’t hear the sounds of gunshots. Or, maybe I’ll settle down here, and consider raising a child to have the life I never could. I don’t intend on living by the gun my entire life, and before I came to the US, I had a goal that involved fighting for a group of people that most likely wouldn’t fight for me; something I regret. One day, I’ll wash away those regrets, and have peace. If not for everyone, then for myself, and those that I am responsible for. It’d be a dream come true if I could retire for this after a few more years and tell myself; ‘Never again, will I have to prepare myself to kill another human, and so long as I live, I will make sure my wife, kid... and cat, hopefully... never have to see the things I saw.’ I don’t know if I’ll ever achieve that goal, but I’ll never stop trying.”

Fletchawk · Aug 7, 2019

Ryan Donahue

From:

Misty Gray
Ryan: What are your biggest regrets/things you would do differently if you could go back in time?
Ah. Regrets. I definitely have those in spades. Probably for the best that we're just doing the big ones, or we might've been here for a while.

Not telling Sinead about my feelings for her when I younger would probably be my first big one, could've saved myself a lot of heartache had I been braver back then. There's my time in Korea, and while I don't regret it as a whole, there was a lot of ugliness over there. A lot of little regrets there too, like if I'd done this or that instead, would it've saved one or more of my brothers-in-arms? But deciding to separate from Su-yeong after our short time together in Pusan? Seemed like a good idea at the time, but you know they say about hindsight. That was definitely my biggest regret, even to this day. But maybe it was for the best, because she didn't have to know about the monstrosities I committed when I returned to Chicago. Then there's the time I lost my temper when Alfie ripped me off. I was desperate, and five grand was a lot to lose, but if I'd known how it would've ended...

Needless to say, lesson learned.

Ryan: What do you really think about the marriage between Peter and Sinead?
While I think their marriage isn't perfect, they obviously care for each other. Peter seems to be a decent man, although he seems to be a bit aloof around me. I haven't been in Sinny's life much since I first left Chicago all those years ago, so I can't really form a detailed opinion. But I know that if their relationship had gotten too toxic, that her family would've "fixed" it one way or another. I have sensed that Sinead isn't entirely happy, but I currently don't know the source of it. If it turns out to be Peter, well, we'll have to have some words.

Fletchy: Will we ever meet Su-Yeong Yu? What's the relationship like between her and Ryan?
Perhaps, although I doubt it'll be through me. The reasons for that is two-fold; The first is that I'm a method writer, so when comes to roleplaying characters, it can take some time for me switch between between them, especially if they're going to interacting with each other regularly. The second is that the idea of roleplaying her when I already control Ryan and Owen just feels weird to me. But if someone else wants to pick her up, they're welcome to do so.

As for their relationship; it's as I said in Ryan's CS, but I suppose you want something more in depth. Officially, they're engaged. However, much to his mother's ire, the two of them agreed to not tie the knot until they found out what happened to Owen. While they aren't really a sensual couple, they still enjoy each other's company, and care for each other deeply. Actually, the nickname that is on Ryan's CS, "Lion" is her pet name for him. It came from the fact that when they initially met, she had troubles pronouncing the |R|in his name and it sounded like she was saying |L|. Since Su-yeong is the more empathetic of the two, her moral code is definitely more black and white compared to Ryan's, and it has definitely influenced his new, and more restrained modus operandi.

Ryan: What's the worst things you've had to do for your "employers" - both Irish Mob and those LA Italians!
I've done some less than savory things while working for both, but it was only for the LA Mafia that I did anything against my will. Since they were being slowly pushed out by negro gangs, and the Cartel, the things they ordered "Honest Perry" to do were truly horrendous, and I rather not go into detail. Let's just say it still haunts me.

Ryan: If you'd never got involved working for the mob, what do you think you'd be doing for a living now?
Most likely mechanical work, or perhaps racing even.

From:

Melanin-Gxdess
Ryan: What do you think would have happened had you met Sinead before Peter?
Sinead and I actually knew each other since childhood. So while we've known each other for most of our lives, our paths haven't crossed very often since I joined the Marines in '49.

Ryan: How are you handling all the changes moving from Dublin to America?
Given that I was born and raised in Chicago, spent most of my life in the U.S., and not even a year in Dublin, I'd say I handled it pretty well.

Ryan: Have you told Sinead how you felt? If not will you ever?
I guess I never said it directly, but while she visited me while I recovering from the Christmas ambush in Dublin, I feel like got the message across. So, mostly yes.

From:

Bellz
Ryan: Why are you such a loser? (Petey disguised as Bella)
Uh... Not sure if that term would totally apply to me, but I'll admit to being a bad person. As for why? That's a long list, so we're just going to put aside illegal stuff like the murders, exhortations, etc...
Because I wasn't there for the people that I care for when they needed me most.

Fletchy: Inspirations for Ryan? What are they? How did you come about making him?
There are a number of influences. Namely my social studies/english teacher in high school. He was a Marine, and a strict man in the classroom. Although, when he wasn't teaching, he had a snappy and censorious sense of humor. Definitely someone I looked up. A lot of Ryan's mannerism are based on him. However, Ryan's wit is similar to his FC, Jensen Ackles, an actor I very much enjoy watching. Initially, Ryan also had some bits and pieces of me in him, as do most of my characters, since it helps get into their mindset when I write, but in this RP, he's become less like me, and more of his own character, except for the more technical parts that rely on my experiences to portray accurately.

Ryan: Do you believe in the sanctity of marriage?
Um... That question feels oddly precise, but yes. I value to committing one's self to your partner when in a relationship. For example, even though Sue and I aren't legally married, our relationship is still a close union. At least, unless Sue decides otherwise, which I very much doubt will happen.

Fletchy: If things would have turned out differently for Sinead and Ryan, do you think they'd be happy?
Oh man, that's a toughy. I guess it depends on when exactly it turned out differently. If it had been early on, before Ryan's father was killed, it's very possible. Ryan would've had something to lose, and would've been much less likely to have joined the Marines as a result. However, I have my doubts that Ryan would've survived the war between the two families had he stayed.

Totally different story however if he'd pressed for Sinead's heart in Dublin. Had he been successful, the guilt of stealing her away from Peter would've eaten at him. He definitely would've done everything in his power to make Sinead happy, but I have a feeling it would've eaten at her as well. Of course, he would've been extremely torn when the letter from Su-yeong would've arrived. Ultimately, he would've been torn in two, and his relationship with Sinead would've devolved into something much worse than what Peter and Sinead have now.

But of course, this all just speculation.

Ryan: Who do you think you are?
A bad person trying to be the man that Su-yeong sees me as.

From:

Pyroclast
Ryan: Who in your life would you most likely show your vulnerable side to?
Sue. Maybe Conor. Maybe.

Ryan: What has been your proudest moment in life so far?
Hard to say. A lot of what should of been proud moments for me were either marred, or I was absent. I want to say asking Sue to marry me, but I didn't really feel proud, it just felt like I was more complete. There was also that illegal Grand Prix through Chicago that I won before I left for Dublin though. Yeah, that was a pretty great feeling. I guess there's all that shit I survived too.

Ryan: What would you say is your biggest weakness?
I have the same major weakness as everyone else. Lead to the head. Barring that, an endangered loved one. Which is why Sue is staying in Chicago with Ma.

Ryan: I have always had you down as a realist, but you must have fantasised about one day having your son in your life. What's the best outcome you can imagine?
The best outcome would've been that he was returned home ten years. But that obviously didn't happen. Ten years without a hint of what happened to him, he just vanished.

Fletch: What about Ryan's character do you find the most challenging to write?
Easy answer? His mechanical knowledge. Everything mentioned relating to that skill set has required research. Sometimes hours of it.

But the more difficult answer would be that he's becoming less and less familiar as he experiences things that I never have. So the process of "what would Ryan do/say" can be hard at times. It's still enjoyable though, just increasingly time consuming.

Bellz · Aug 16, 2019

Peter Callahan

Misty Gray
Peter: You have three kids. Who is your favourite and why?
Well I love all of my kids dearly and I would never chose a favorite in front of them, however, I would have to say Savannah. Even though she isn't mine, I've had a strong connection with her since I held her for the first time back in Chicago all those years ago. She's my princess.

Peter: When you were arrested and jailed the first time, you were leading the cops away from catching James and Ryan. Do you feel any bitterness towards those to for that?
Honestly, I'm trying to live my life without feeling bitter or jealous even. I can say that I don't regret my decision because that's exactly what it was, my decision. Ryan and James really didn't have control over what I did, so I try not to feel bitter towards them as best as I can. Sometimes, I get too much inside my own head and feel a different way, but for the most part...No, I don't feel bitter.

Peter:What would you do if it turned out Sinead had cheated on you?
I would probably head back to Ireland after formally divorcing her. I don't think I would be able to handle it, as much as I do love her and want to say I would stick by her after such mistake...I know I wouldn't.

Peter: What are the worst things that happened to you in jail?
When I was stabbed with a fucking sharp toothbrush was pretty much the highlight of most of my pain and torturing. That was probably...no definitely, the worst thing that ever happened to me in jail. Not to mention all the beatings.

Peter: Do you want more involvement in the family business and in what capacity?
Well I'm always willing to lend a hand where it is needed. I'm not sure I could say in what capacity because it seems like all bases have been covered with the business. I would like to go out on more jobs if possible, but then again, Sinny would kill me if I ended up in jail again.

Pyroclast

Bella: Where does your inspiration for Peter's personality come from?
A lot of Peter's personality is derived from my own. His anxieties and anti-social persona is something I experience on the daily and I felt that creating a character based on that side of me would really make me more passionate about writing. I created Peter at a time when I was at my worst and I can honestly say that he saved me from myself and from leaving the RP when I felt truly unmotivated and lost. Now I will never leave!

Peter: Before your first prison sentence, what sort of future had you envisioned for yourself?
before my first sentence...I really wasn't sure of my future. As a kid I'd always dreamt up that I would become someone a bit nobler than I am now. Someone who actually followed the law, can you believe that? I guess I really thought about my future when I first met Sinny and Savvy...it was a weird thing...these two girls putting my whole life into perspective for me. Hell, I wasn't 100% when I took the job, I was just a stupid reckless kid and yet, I imagined a future with the woman who's family I worked for. That was the first time I ever envisioned myself with a life that consisted of a family...that's when I really found my purpose...it was to protect her.
Peter: What's on your bucket list?
Honestly, I want to travel and see the world. It was hard to imagine doing that when I was a kid but now, I think its possible. I want to just enjoy my time with my wife while we have the time and money to do so...as much as I love the kids I think it would be good to discover ourselves as a couple again. I think I also want a dog...I know *pause* Sinny wants another kid...I just don't know if I can do it all over again...
Peter: Have you ever worried that your anxiety and PTSD will someday put you or others at risk during a job? What coping mechanisms do you have in place for when you do that kind of business? I worry about that all the time...its a curse to worry about your worries. I'm aware of the risk that I put on others during the jobs I go on, but I can't let that slow me down...and if I put myself at risk, well I don't really care about that. It really helps to count backwards from ten and taking deep slow breaths. My anxieties and PTSD gets worse if my thoughts are racing and I can't control it anymore, that's when things get dangerous. I'm still working other ways to keep myself relaxed, but I will not stop trying to protect my family...I'll risk it all for them.
Peter: What's your favourite memory of your children when they were small?
Well, with Savannah, my favorite memory was the first time I ever held her, all the way back in Chicago. I just remember how small she was, the tiniest thing I've ever held in my arms...and I had quite some experience with helping out the orphanage with the abandoned babies. You know what, I honestly think I can say the same for all of my kids...nothing beats the first time you get to hold them in your arms. Its amazing to think you've created this little human, who has no idea just how big the world is. Its incredible...

Fletchawk
Bella: Why do you always wait until the last moment?
Because of the LLL. LIVIN LIKE LARRY...*looks to see if anyone has gotten my spongebob reference* Honestly, I just have so much going on that I have to do all of my posts in one big wave that usually happen when i have the most time. Once I get in the zone I will post everything until I have nothing left.

Peter: What are your three favorite moments
There are a lot of moments in my life that I am thankful for...so its hard to choose just the three. If I were to chose however it would be when I married Sinead, the first time I held Savannah and when my two other kids were born.

Peter: Besides numbing yourself to oblivion, what are some hobbies you enjoy?
Well if timing permits, I enjoy playing music. It has been a lot of years since I've played the piano and I would like to start up again soon...But besides that I love to read and sometimes just listen to music really loudly when no one is home. Not very interesting hobbies but they bring me a lot of joy when I do them.

Bella: If you had to pick a way for Peter to die, what would it be?
Oh I would have had him die in prison to be honest. I wasn't sure about Peter going into the second installment of the trilogy and I wasn't sure he was going to make it. If I didn't have faith in his character ark he would have died after being shanked to death in the showers.

Bella: Is there a scene you wish you could go back and change?
I think I would have changed the scene where Peter tries to distract the police to save Ryan and James from getting in trouble. I wanted to execute it a lot better than what I had written.

seasonedcat · Aug 17, 2019

~Penelope Werner~

Me: What is your favourite thing about Penelope?
Hard to say, I love all my characters, but I do enjoy how she makes me think when I write her. The balance of thinking with only logic, a bad habit she has, but also making her human. Something I don't know if I've shown well yet, but she is someone who doesn't like her own emotions and prefers logic. I just love having to put myself in her mindset briefly to write her posts, while also shinning through some of myself and my own beliefs while still making her her own person.
Penelope: How did you come to join the Barons?
This cities gangs held a large hold over it, the best way to have greater control and place in the world was to join one. The owner of the pub I work at is a member of one of the powerful gangs, it wasn't that hard to find a smaller gang from them to join. With my sister's help, some hard work, and time I managed to gain their trust so I could join, and here I am.
Me: Is there a specific reason you picked Ukraine as Penelope's land of birth?
Well, embarrassingly the main reason was that me and my girlfriend were obsessed with this book we both read and one of the characters was from there. At the time I was still really obsessed with the book and it was the first place that came to mind. I also love making a wide variety of characters with different pasts, personalities, ect. and I wanted to explore a new country this time.
Penelope: Favorite book?
Hmmm, there are so many. Maybe The Murder of Roger Ackroyd? I did enjoy that one quite a bit.
Me: Will we ever hear stories from when Penelope was a runaway?
Definitely! If she gets closer with characters she might share them herself, or maybe small flashbacks, or mentions in posts? Either way, it'll happen at some point (:

Fletchawk
Me: Excluding Braden and Rachel, which characters are you most interested in Penelope having scenes with?
All of your guy's characters >.<. Lol but seriously excited to interact with more of you, maybe some of the others near Penelope's age? I can't choose from all of your lovely characters uwu.
Penelope: What are your biggest fears?
Oh um... I'm not really comfortable.... maybe cars and heights. They bring back bad memories... but there are other things too... guns make me scared as well I guess.... can we go to the next question, please.
Penelope: How do you feel about Braden?
*cue agitated sigh* There's nothing special to it ok! I'm tired of everyone asking this. He may be cute and I enjoy his company but... wait I didn't, ugh! I hate feelings. He's my friend lets leave it at that.
Penelope: What are your thoughts on the mob 'running' New York City?
At first, I wasn't very 'ok' with it, it rubbed me the wrong way that 'evil' people ran things. However, I may have started out joining so I could change something, or more have some sense of control over my 'world' after time, the people there have... grown on me. Some of them are not that bad, I think that I am alright with it now...
Me: Are you enjoying the RP so far? What made you interested in joining?
YES YES YES! I love all your rps so much, you are all so talented and nice I couldn't ask for a better RP! I got interested at first because I saw Misty was the creator and I have been in one of their RPs before and I loved the plot and they were amazing at RPing, and once I read the plot I was hooked on the RP! I liked the concept and also all your guy's writing capabilities, I hoped that I could get better at making romance interactions and maybe learn some things from all of you while doing so(also make more friends).

Misty Gray
{Maybe more to be added in the future! Feel free to ask!}

Melanin-Gxdess · Aug 25, 2019

Aliana: What do you imagine your life and family would be like now, had Tommy not been killed?
"Easy; I'd be with Tommy and not Conor. Not to say I chose Conor out of default of Tommy's death, that's not how it was at all. That night he died I had decided I wanted Tommy and that Conor and I had our chance and it passed. But fate had other ideas... I don't know, I'd be happier? I would still have my ring on my finger and not around my neck, that's for sure. Maybe I'd have two living kids instead of just the one. Sometimes I like to think he would have wanted to get out of this life too and we'd be on a beach somewhere raising our kids together... I'm rambling. I think about this a lot, but don't tell Conor. That's an argument I don't actually feel like having."

Mel: So far, you've played characters aligned with the Porters/Sullivans, in some form. Would playing a villain be something you're interested in exploring?
Whaaaa heck yeah! Playing the good girl is fun, but playing the bad guys is fun too!

Aliana: What would you say are your biggest fears?
"Losing Leo... I'll have lost two of them and I don't think I can do it. I think another would be getting kidnapped. Most likely they'll make me give up information and I won't so they'll kill me. I'm not afraid of death whatsoever. I'm afraid of what my death'll do to my already estranged family."

Aliana: Are there any members of Conor's family you dislike? Why?
"Not really, no. I mean, James has been on and off my shit list for a long time now... I blame him for a lot of things, Tommy's death, Leo's. It's a miracle I somehow find a way to put that somewhere and not punch him when I see him."

Aliana: Who are the people in your life you can trust the most and are closest to?
"I definitely think I'm closest to Sinead and can trust her with nearly anything. I trust a lot of them, but Sinead I trust the most."
(

Misty Gray )

Aliana: do you ever find yourself comparing Conor to Tommy these days?
"More than I'd like to admit, to be honest. Life right now has been kicking my ass and just so difficult and I just continue to think about what if? I still love Conor, don't get me wrong but I sometimes can't help thinking that maybe my life would be easier had Tommy not died."

Aliana: do you ever worry that your lack of contact with Conor during his time in prison had affected your ability as a couple to co-parent Leo?
"Sometimes, yeah. Me not visiting him in prison I think has made Leo sort of... Resent me a little. He favors Conor, always has and that's okay with me. But, it also means he only ever listens to Conor.."

Aliana: how much does Leo know about the young man he was named after?
"Leo knows about his late uncle, but doesn't know the circumstance surrounding his death. I don't think I'll ever tell him for fear of what would happen or what he would interpret that into.."

Aliana: deep down, do you hope to have a positive relationship with your father someday?
"...Of course. I try to visit him but I feel responsible for him being in prison to begin with. Pretty sure I'm what's holding me back from that positive relationship from happening."

Mel: what do you think you share in common with Aliana? In what ways do you identify with her?
Probably the fact that she gets in her own way most of the time. Whether it's being happy or getting over things, she tends to compromise herself and ruin things. I literally do it on an everyday basis and it's pretty bad. Always in her head. But, we're also funny and people love us despite a lot of different faults.

Pyroclast

Misty Gray · Aug 31, 2019

James Ronan Porter

James: Have there been any points where you have seriously considered stepping down from 'the business' and handing it on to a successor?
There have been times when I've considered stepping down, but for various reasons it's never gone behind simple thought. When things were at their worst back in Dublin, I seriously considered it. I felt weakened and believed I'd failed my family. However, I soon climbed back out of that mindset and built up my strength again; both physical and the mental resolve. I felt I owed it to my my family and friends to keep fighting. Risking my own life had never been an issue - I'm surprised I ever survived my early twenties - but it was my job to ensure my family's safety. At times when business has been running smoothly, I haven't felt confident that my successors are ready to take on all of this bullshit. Syd or Conor would be my natural successors, but I feel neither are quite ready to take on all of this on just yet.

Vinnie Romano said himself that I never knew when to quit!

Misty: What people (real and fake) have you drawn upon for inspiration in creating James Porter? Any other famous mob bosses?
When I first made James, back in 'The Oath', he was actually only intended as a side character - one of Emmet Sullivan's trusted gang members. Admittedly, inspiration came from Oliver Queen from 'Arrow', played by James' FC. Like Oliver, James was serious, strong and highly-focused. Switch the bow & arrow for guns! As the first RP played out, James became one of my main characters. Lucy helped him to evolve beyond the lone wolf and man of few words he'd always been.

In terms of "mob bosses", I guess there's bits of Thomas Shelby from Peaky Blinders that show in James at times. His serious demeanour, no-nonsense attitude and willingness to get his own hands dirty.

There's not really any real-life people I feel I took inspiration from. Although, James' aversion to being the centre of attention and having to speak in front of groups is taken straight from myself.

James: If Lucy asked you to retire, would you?
I think Lucy knows the score on that one. We've talked about retirement before and it's something I've spent time imagining for myself. It's not a job that's easy to retire from. I'd have to be sure someone can take my place before that can happen. The minute rivals see any weakness they'll step up to take advantage of it. Alternatively, relinquishing power and bringing my family out of this world completely would be even more dangerous as we'd have no defences should our enemies wish to take revenge. Even in retirement, I'd be looking over my shoulder. The best I can hope for is that one of the others will one day be ready to take my place.

RayPurchase

Misty: What do you think you would have liked to do with James, had he not unexpectedly taken on the role of mob boss?
I think he'd have stayed on as Conor's right-hand man. The young Conor who inherited the business would have needed a lot of input, be it James talking him out of doing something on impulse or having to persuade him to make unpleasant decisions the boss would have to. He'd have probably wanted him and Lucy to get their own place so they could enjoy married life without feeling like they were sponging off of Conor. With him not the boss, I would have liked James to go back to his hitman days, free of any paperwork and desks, and it's very likely I would have had him doing a stint in jail.

James: If there was anything that could make you give up the empire you have built and pass on the power to a completely different set of hands - a new gang, mob, mafia for instance - what do you think it would be?
That would be a pretty long shot, if I'm being honest. I guess there'd have to be some pretty big deals going down for that. Assurances that my family could live the rest of their lives in safety and free of mob ties. I'd have to make sure the price is right too, given the work we've all put into our business - especially the legitimate ones. Honestly, I find this a question I can't even entertain hypothetically, as I present don't believe it's possible to give it up without putting us in further danger. I know some of my family would like us to leave this all behind and some have said directly, but it really isn't that simple.

Misty: With this being the third part of the Irish Mob series, what are some of the ways in which you think James has developed or changed the most since you first started playing him?
When James first started out, he was more of a lone wolf character. He was emotionally shut off and didn't talk much at all unless his job required him to. At that time, he believed had no family and no personal ties. This meant he was always fully focused on his job and a systematic hitman. He believed he had nothing to lose and wasn't concerned much about his own life; he'd killed a lot of people for his employer so figured it was only a matter of time before it caught up to him. This has changed greatly over the course of the RPs. After falling in love with Lucy and eventually learning he did have family scattered around, he's become more open and shares his feelings with his wife. He didn't joke much before, but now the odd one will slip out of his mouth. He's become more of a team player and allowing himself to get close to people has made him show more mercy to others; being more hesitant to take another human life. Having a family has made James value his own life more. Knowing people are dependent on him means he's more cautious about the consequences of his actions.

James: Do you have any words that you live by? Any rules or lessons that you carry with you to help you make your decisions or to help you stay motivated when things get tough?
"I'm fine." When things get too much or I've taking a good beating, I remind myself I'm somehow still alive. Quitting has never been something I've felt comfortable with, so I tell myself if I'm still breathing then I can still do something - I can . There are times I have to make unpleasant decisions and I always ask myself if I'd be able to explain my actions to those I love. If I wouldn't be able to accept the explanation from someone I care about, then I probably shouldn't do that thing!

James: If for whatever reason you no longer had Lucy by your side, what would you do with yourself?
Well, there's something I would rather not think about. I'd probably find myself buried deeper into the business to try distract myself from not having Lucy with me. In down time, I'd have to busy myself with the cars or in the gym. I'd make sure to spend a lot more time with Thomas than I do now and I imagine I'd probably mess that up as Luce is more sensitive with the kids than I am. As she's the only person I can truly offload my feelings to, I guess I'd find myself talking to the dogs a lot more!

James: In what ways would you say raising children has affected the way you do business?
Raising children has made me show more compassion towards others. It's also made me more cautious about the decisions I make as everything I can do can impact them, potentially even directly with some of the psychotic freaks this family has encountered in the past.

Pyroclast

James: Do you feel responsible for some of the major deaths? As in, Leo, Arlene, Thomas etc...
I do feel responsible for Tommy's death. Not only was I the one to talk him into attend the meeting with the IWU the night he was killed, but long before that I promised his old man he'd be safe with us. I know I couldn't have had his back all of the time, but he was a smart and decent lad who I should have discouraged from wanting to work for me. The night he was shot, I'd been sat at the same table and it still feels wrong that I was unharmed whilst he lost his life.

I feel Leo's death was my responsibility too. Not just because I let him join the mob when Aliana didn't want him to. When Leo was killed, I'd been struggling to find a solution to our IWU problem. Had I found the answers sooner, his death could have been prevented. If I could have gone back, I would have thrown aside my dislike for explosives and blown that factory up much sooner. That's why I showed less hesitation in doing the same to the Morettis - to stop them before they could become a real threat.

Whilst I am sorry and upset about Arlene's death, I don't think I can take responsibility. Arlene has been in the business all of her life and like me, she often challenged death. I had done everything I could to help her start a new life. Hell, i suggested she moved much further than Connecticut, but not many people ever had success in commanding Arlene. It might sound bad, but Arlene was more than capable of looking after herself. I do, however, feel it's now mine and Lucy's responsibility to protect the little girl she's left behind.

Misty: How do you feel about this being the last storyline in the trilogy?
I feel really sad, to be honest. It took me a while to find a new writing group after everyone in my previous group kind of just separated and had real life happen. So this was the first and only thing I've found consistent since then. But, to the story itself... It being the last in the trilogy means anything could happen and my trigger finger does get itchy!

James: Who in the family do you think has been wronged the most and the worst?
Whilst Lucy and Syd have lost a lot and suffered more than I like to think about, I would have to say Sinead. I've known her since she was a teenager and even back then I saw someone who didn't belong in the dangerous world she'd been born into. I first watched her have her independence stripped away after Romano dragged her into his war, having her find a dead body in her dressing room and then destroying her apartment. She had to watch both her father and then Savvy's father gunned down in front of her. Over the years, she's seen far more violence and destruction a woman who craves peace should have to. Whilst Pete is old enough to make his own decisions and I'd prefer to have him working for me, Sinead's had to fight through her own depression twice to care for their kids whilst he's been in jail. I just see Sinead as someone who deserves to be living somewhere peaceful, running her own sparkly music clubs and loving her family. But, she's stronger than she gives herself credit for and has always refused to leave this family behind. I admire that commitment, even if it does keep her at risk.

James: Do you believe one day the family will be able to actually live peacefully?
I suppose if I could hand the business over to someone I could trust and my family could then move to the other side of the world, then yes!

Misty: What the hell are we supposed to do when this is all over????
I don't really know. Please send help!
...Start again with an alternate universe? Or Mob 1990s?

Melanin-Gxdess

Misty: When did you realize that James no longer fit the role of a side character?
I don't think it took long at all. As I started exploring his attraction to Lucy and I found myself needing his skills for the plot, I started using him more than intended. Once I started expanding on his character beyond him being "extra muscle for the gang" I realised he could be a much more complex character than I'd originally set out. I just found myself enjoying playing him and there was so much I could use him for. It still wasn't until the last few chapters of the first RP that I decided he'd become the head of the family, Conor's path had taken him to a place where he couldn't do it and James seemed much more fitting to the role. Helped that he'd married into the Sullivan family by then!

James: You've moved shop about every decade or so, and given that the RICO Act passed recently, do you see yourself moving again? And where to if so?
I'm not worried about that one just yet, not with me having evidence for so many cops and public figures corrupt themselves. I'd say we've still got a handle on this one. As for where I would go next, that's something I'd have to look into. I hear Chicago's looking nice again these days. Then there's the fact that Shannon's living over in London, so maybe she's already scared everyone out of there and cleared the path for us to move there next. Not to mention I have family out in Italy. No, that last one's a joke...

James: If you had to pick a vehicle to best describe yourself, what would it be?
One that's smart, durable and long-lasting. It has bulletproof windows. You know the one...

James: Stranded, yada yada yada, only one thing, yada some more; which Whiskey would you pick?
Jameson Irish Whiskey. Although, for my birthday Mitchell did get me some McAllan Scottish whisky that I rather enjoyed.

Misty: When is the last time you almost killed James off?
Probably around the time he was getting the shit seriously beaten out of him by Gideon. It wasn't intended in the plans, but I did briefly consider killing him off and how the dynamics would continue with him dead. In the end, I decided I couldn't part with him just yet...

Fletchawk

Pyroclast · Sep 12, 2019

Alistair Sawyer

Alistair: Who has been your biggest role model in life?

I would probably say my father. We weren't close, but he taught me a lot of valuable lessons. He was a loose cannon, probably equally as unhinged as the patients he dealt with on a daily basis, and despite teaching me how to assert myself I am thankful that he didn't pass that temper of his down to me. Still, I credit him for a lot of the more useful traits I developed over the years. "You can beat me, but you'll never defeat me" - that's the motto I live by, something that I think comes from him. He wouldn't let anyone disrespect him, and it was that attitude that made him so successful in his work. When I was younger and making my own way in life I would often ask myself what he would do in certain situations. My father and I were certainly not close and I can't say we ever loved each other, but I'll admit he played a significant part in building me into the man I am today.

Pyro: Is there anyone (real or TV/film character) you gain inspiration from when writing Alistair?

To be honest, no particular character or person comes to mind when writing him. I think I just have a couple of favourite villain tropes that I've picked up from various TV shows and films. One is the unhinged brawler type, which I explored very briefly when playing Eddie in the Drogheda scene in Family Affair, and another is the cool-calm-and-collected type that works in a very calculated way and whose words are their greatest weapon. Alistair falls into the second one, and some examples of characters from shows that do it really well I'd say are the villains from the Fargo TV series, particularly Lorne Malvo and Mike Milligan. They're both eloquent and charismatic, polite yet chilling, cruel and merciless; even though I wasn't thinking of either of them when creating or playing Alistair, they've probably both inspired me on some subliminal level.

Alistair: Who would you say you are closest to?

I suppose the person I trust the most is Ethan Turner. He has never misunderstood me or disobeyed me, and I like his style. Even when he's doing a job for me, he'll do it so naturally and with such ease that you wouldn't even know he was under orders. I've never had to remind him to do anything or ask him to do something better. He's earned my respect, to say the least. I'd trust him with any concerns or plans, listen to him and look after him. Ethan is my most valuable man.

Alistair: What are your thoughts on the Porters/Sullivans?

The family certainly have an inflated view of themselves. They act as though they are feared, but from the vast amount of protection they employ on their establishments it's clear that they feel insecure and paranoid. That in itself is a weakness easily preyed upon.

Alistair: Have you ever been in love? Is romance something you want in your life?

I consider myself an ambitious man, but I wouldn't say that love has ever been an ambition of mine. That's not to say that I wouldn't let a woman into my life someday, but she would need to serve me some purpose beyond affection and sex. She would need to both impress me and be of use to me. If no such woman comes my way, then so be it. I've never depended on anyone, anyway.

From: Misty Gray

Pyro: What is your process when it comes to writing Alistair?

I imagine what it'd feel like not to care about other people and to be insensitive and cold-hearted. Most of my scenes with Alistair have been about asserting dominance over somebody he neither cares about nor respects, someone that he is set on bringing harm to. So it's always been a kind of performance that he puts on , with commentary running through his mind as he carries out the deed, rather than delving into his own feelings and personal life like I do with my other characters.

Alistair: What is your first childhood memory?

My first childhood memory...I think was in a car. We were parked in the snow somewhere, and my parents were fighting outside. I think we'd been pulled over or something, but my father starting beating her the moment the cops were out of sight. I just remember wondering if the window was going to break.

Pyro: How hard was it writing the torture scene? Or was it easy for you?

It wasn't too hard haha. I did need to discuss it a lot with you and Misty to see which references from the parallel torture scene in The Oath would hurt Lucy and Sinead the most, but Syd was already in pain so that didn't require much effort. Alistair has been a bully his whole life but he's also very intelligent and calculating, so all I had to do was make him say mean things that would hit a nerve. Since he would know some of what Syd had told Maddox in his counselling sessions, I just had to find out the ways to torment Lucy and Sinead, and then all three of them would suffer. Yay!

Alistair: How do you feel about the ones you call family?

The only people I've ever called family are now dead. My mother was an unfortunate woman, brought to ruin by her inability to cope with hardship. My father was a hard, merciless man, but without his influence I doubt I would have been as successful in bringing the East Harlem gang to order. He was a terrible man and didn't make the best father, but I am grateful to him for making me into the man I am today. If anyone else had raised me, I could have ended up soft like my mother. It's a dog-eat-dog world out here and if you don't toughen up, you'll only struggle more.

Alistair: Do you consider yourself to be on the side of good or evil?

I don't value such terms. What's good and what's evil doesn't matter to me. I do what I believe needs to be done for my own sake, for business' sake and for the sake of the city's future. What I end up doing in the process doesn't bear any weight on my conscience. Rather than good or evil, I would say what I'm doing is right. Sometimes it's right to be good, and sometimes it's right to be cruel; it all depends on what your overall goal is.

Alistair: If the Porters were redeemable should they have done differently in the past?

As far as I'm concerned, that family has been reckless. They don't seem to have learned that violence incites violence. If they had, then they would know to keep their loved ones away from their place of work. Given their reputation, I would have expected them to have been able to foresee the consequences of their actions. Murdering a powerful family and then being surprised when their own family members are targeted? It's hardly professional. They ought to be wiser than that. I don't know how they've even made it this far.

From: Bellz

Pyro: What do you enjoy the most about writing this character?

Exploring the dark side. The debate on morality within this rp has always been open, but particularly at moments when the Porters' enemies reveal their personal hardships. Alistair, on the other hand, has no vendetta against the Irish Mob. He is in this business purely for his own gain: the endless pursuit of power, status, dominance and wealth. It's interesting playing a character in conflict with one of my others, because it allows me to see their similarities and differences up close. For instance, Alistair's passion, drive and work ethic may be similar to Syd's but their personalities and personal ambitions could not be more different. Alistair is cold, independent and proud, putting himself first even though he may not always realise it. And even though he may share certain traits with my other characters, he's different enough for it to be interesting for me.

Mr. Sawyer: Who, if anyone, inspires you?

Well, I've mentioned my father's influence - I suppose he inspired in me a will to survive. Other than him, I would say it's the other men in my line of work. Gabriel Moretti, Stefano Carriveau and Maddox Parker are all intelligent men at the top of their game who are able to see several steps ahead in order to realise their plans without intervention. That's the kind of expertise I am grateful to be working alongside. I have faith in their goals, and I believe that working alongside them will only boost my own career.

Pyro: Are there any elements about writing a character of the opposite sex that you feel like you have troubles grasping?

Honestly, I'm not really sure how much a person's sex affects the way they think, but supposing it does, then that would be something I might not have fully grasped. It's how they act on their thoughts and feelings that matter to me. I think the reason I generally prefer to write from the perspective of men is because I'm interested in exploring the pressures that men face, since I'm not a man myself. The more I learn about feminism the more I become exposed to society's expectations on men, not just in the present but also throughout history and across different cultures. I've never been in Alistair's, Syd's, Jason's or Danny's situations - my upbringing has been hugely different to each of their's - but that just means I have to figure out the ways in which their experiences would influence their actions, worldviews and feelings about themselves. I've seen enough of the errors that a lot of men make and I feel like I have a decent understanding of where they stem from. For instance, how being conditioned to link vulnerability to weakness of character affects their relationships and their self-esteem, or how a lack of exposure to feminist issues would make them act entitled. I do wonder if I'm writing wildly unrealistically sometimes, but there must be a reason why I feel so comfortable writing from a male perspective and I think it's because I sympathise and empathise with the less talked-about struggles that the patriarchy has caused in men.

Mr. Sawyer: What is something you've always wanted to try, but never had the chance to?

Judge me if you will, but I used to fantasise about sleeping with a superior and causing her downfall. It sounded empowering to me, to ruin somebody's career and come out on top. I got close with one of the professors at my university, once. She didn't even teach on my course. But that was around the same time I got involved with gangs, so I gave up on that pursuit, as well as my girlfriend at the time and my degree altogether. I wouldn't give up my place on the hierarchy now, not for anything. It was just an old idea of mine, back when I knew women in positions above my own.

Mr. Sawyer: If could stop your past self from doing one thing, what would it be?

Well, there's a tough question. I have to admit, I have little time for regrets. There is nothing I want in life that I don't already have or believe I am on track to attain. Pointless relationships with boring girls, violent run-ins with half-wits, unfinished university degrees. Nothing really feels like a waste of time because they all eventually lead me onto better things, or at least taught me a valuable life lesson.

From: Fletchawk

Bellz · Sep 19, 2019

Lucy Porter

seasonedcat
Lucy: What is your favorite colour/shade
I really am fond of the color red, its quite expressive and really versatile. I find that when I'm in a bit of a angry or frustrated mood, red suits me well. *smirks*

Bella: What's your favorite part about playing Lucy?
Well Lucy has been with me since the beginning with The Oath so I have a special bond with her compared to most of my characters I've played. My favorite part about playing her is that she is portrayed as someone who was very near and dear to my heart. Not only did she take after some of my qualities but as she developed into a more matriarchal role later in the second part of the trilogy, A Family Affair, ultimately I realized that I wanted to find the inspiration for her in my Mimi, my grandmother who passed away in April. Every day I get to revisit some moments that made me wonder what my grandmother would have done for her equally large family. She was a worrier for her loved ones, she opened the door to those who needed it in the family and loved children.And don't worry Lucy gets the stubbornness and anger from me

Its been wonderful being able to have those moments where I get to think about what my Mimi would do, its been getting me through the months she's been gone and honestly I'm not sure what I'm going to do once the trilogy is through, but Lucy will always be my favorite character I've ever created in my 12 years of roleplaying.

Lucy: Who is your favorite person?
Well its hard to decide who your favorite person is, especially when you have so many wonderful people in your life. James has always been my number one...and normally I would say he is my favorite person but, he seems to think he knows it all *scrunches nose* I guess he's still my favorite person. We've been together so long...he's not just my husband but he's my best friend. And sometimes, you can be mad at your best friend *shrugs*

Lucy: What is your favorite thing to do?
I have a bit of a green thumb. So gardening is something I really like to do in my spare time. My rose garden specifically is my favorite part of the garden.

Bella: Do you find it difficult or easy to write up posts for Lucy?
I think it's a happy medium. There are times when I find Lucy extremely hard to write because sometimes its hard to answer my own questions on what she would do and how to approach the situation but other times I'm feeling more in tune with myself and my inspiration and its a piece of cake to write.

Lucy: Dogs or cats?
Have you seen how many dogs are in my house?

Misty Gray
Lucy: What do you think your life would be like now had you and James not got together?
*brows furrow* I can't say that I haven't thought about it before...but its something that's very unpleasant to think about. He drives me insane sometimes with all of these tough decisions having to be made and we have our disagreements at times but I wouldn't trade this life for anything especially if he isn't in the other with me. But to answer your question, I guess I would have married some boring man and lived a normal life? maybe...who can say? *shakes head* I know i wouldn't be happy, that's for sure...

Lucy: What are your thoughts on Conor not taking control of the business back in Chicago?
I love my brother with everything that I have, I remember how unfair I thought it was that a woman couldn't run the business and now I see why. But Conor wasn't ready to take the business back then and sometimes it really makes me angry that he couldn't. But like previously stated, I couldn't imagine my life being different from what it is now, I can't imagine being normal. *sighs* Besides, it was my own fault...putting Conor in that position that ended up putting James in his place...Sometimes I wonder if my father was still alive and was able to have finished teaching Conor...Sometimes it dangerous to think that way.

Lucy: What are your three favourite and three least favourite things about Jimbo?
Where do we even begin? I'm going to start off with my three least favorite things as they are coming quicker into my head at the moment. His stubbornness, his devotion to the business, and his scars. *smiles* But the good will always outweigh the bad...I love more than just three things about him but if I had to choose just three it would be his sensitive side, which he has developed over the years and I feel so honored that he lets me in like that. His compassion for our children, even though sometimes business seems to get in the way of our eldest son's wellbeing *glares* he really cares and loves our children with everything he has. And the final thing would be also be the thing that I tend to also hate which is his devotion to the business. Its a confusing feeling, but he's taken my father's business to new levels that I'm sure my father would be proud of if he was here today. James took care of everything when he died and he didn't have to do that...He has more heart than he gives himself credit for and I think I will have to remind him of that fact forever.

Lucy: What is your biggest regret in life?
That night that I agreed to do Angel's bidding...I should have known that it was a trick and yet...I didn't. That was before I understood just how serious the business was, that there was more parts to the whole thing and I understood just how sick the other side was. My father died on his birthday because of me and I will never let that go, I just don't think I can. I should have had more faith in my family that they would be able to protect my father...I thought I was saving him. *looks down*

Lucy: What do you want for Christmas? James is struggling.
I really want to relive the old days...something that will make me reminisce about when I first started dating James. Remember the times we use to go to the lake, the first time we went there? Something along those lines, please.

Pyroclast
Lucy: You spend a great deal of time and energy worrying about your loved ones. What measures do you take to keep your own mental health in check?
Mental health is always so important. I've advocated for it since Sinead had that mental breakdown back in Chicago. To keep my own in check, I tend to do things that I enjoy in my spare time which is spending time with my children or James. Or if I'm really upset I tend to write in my journal that my father gave me years ago...its really important to document your feelings so that you can go back and look at the progress you've made later on in life. Its a good reminder of what you've been through and what you have yet to overcome.

Lucy: What has been your favorite age so far and why?
I enjoyed my later 30s very much, I felt like I had grown a lot myself in that time. Its one thing to be an adult just by calling yourself that but to really have the experience and wisdom to back that up is really something that can't be put into words. I felt during my late 30s I was able to grow in a way that I hadn't yet and was able to discover a lot more about myself as a wife, mother and sister to my family.

Lucy: What's your dream?
I've been barking up one tree for so long that I'm almost sure that it will always be just a dream...but to be able to retire from the whole business with James is something I have always looked forward to. Now that doesn't mean I haven't enjoyed every aspect of my life because I have learned to appreciate every moment that I have been on this earth, but I believe that retirement will be something freeing in a way...I may have taken James' last name, but he took on my family's name too...taking the brunt of everything the Sullivans stood for. I just dream that one day I can return the favor by making sure he has everything he would ever need to retire...One day, maybe....

Lucy: What's the most unexpected lesson you've learned through becoming a parent?
Easy. A parent isn't always right. Kids have a lot of perspective on things that a lot of adults don't have. They see things for what they are, they have raw feelings towards it. Sometimes we as adults think we know it all because we've experienced so much...Thomas especially has taught me that you don't have to have the experiences in your life to have such strong opinions. His moral compass is strong for a boy his age and he's got wisdom beyond his years. He didn't experience such hardships like his adopted siblings but he's still grown so much. He proves me wrong all the time, sometimes a little too often.

Bella: Would you say that the character of Lucy is your favourite kind of character to play? why/why not.
I would say yes she is. I've always been a nurturer. Every since I was a little girl I lived to take care of people. Lucy is a very big part of my personality that I love to play because its just who I am naturally. She is a worrier but she puts her own worries and health aside to take care of those who need it and that's something I've done for years. (Its not the healthiest thing to put your own health to the side) With any group or team I was always know as the mother of the group which I thought was a bad thing at first but in my years of being just that people have come to me and said that I have gotten them through some tough times with my caring personality and openness to talk about basically anything, which feels good. Lucy and I are both happy if everyone else is happy and I think its a special personality to have in a way.

Fletchawk
Bella: What's the story behind eternal youth joke?
Oh boy I'm so glad you asked! Its not too interesting to be honest but Misty and I would joke way back when during The Oath that if we were to ever use James and Lucy in future rps, they would have eternal youth because we couldn't find older face claims for them. Its become a joke inside and outside of IC and I think it is true for all of our characters. They all drank from the fountain of youth and will stay that way for years and years to come.

Lucy: You've usually stayed directly out of the family business, and successfully done your own thing ; so what's the reason why you haven't advocated for a safer way of life?
*sighs* Because I think I would sound like a broken record. And I don't think it's just easy to adopt a safer way of life now that we are in the middle of it all. In the downtime with the business it was something that I always brought up with James...but he has tough decisions to make and he can't just leave everything behind. This way of life is hard and is very unsafe but it's my family's livelihood. I can't just take that away from them.

Lucy: We know you love all your children, but is there one that you seem to click with more than the others
*makes sad face* For years, Syd and I use to be so close...but lately we've been having our differences, I want to help him and be there for him but he won't let me do anything of the sort. Thomas and I have clicked well despite the troubles with Syd and we get along together so well. He's such a calm presence, like his father, I'm just dreading the day he gets older like Syd and leaves me behind...I miss both of my boys so much..

Bella: Clowns? Really?
DEMONIC SON'S OF BITCHES! YES! I HATE THEM. So does Lucy. lol Bad experiences with clowns man. Its just a major no go ahaha childhood trauma is real folks.

Melanin-Gxdess · Oct 4, 2019

d23beaba4b45ccb9361ce07867074ef3--jeffrey-dean-morgan-jdm.jpg

Allen Cartwright

(

Misty Gray )
Allen: Do you believe you'll get out of prison any time soon?
"Planning on it. I mean, I hope at least. The laws were very different from when I got locked up so perhaps my assessment can be reassessed..."

Mel: Are there aspects of Allen's past you hope to explore further?
There are bits and pieces, yeah. It mostly has to do with Aliana of course. But, I haven't quite worked all of that out yet and I'm still not sure if I even want to.

Allen: What has been your worst experience/memory during your prison sentence?
"Worst would have to be knowing my wife and daughter were out there in danger. They didn't ask to be apart of this criminal life and I brought them into it. I wouldn't be able to protect them. It wasn't until Al wrote back to me about some things she had been doing that I was comfortable with them being on their own."

Allen: What do you think about Aliana's marriage to Conor?
"I think she married a nice young man. Granted I'd have preferred someone not a criminal but, if she loves him I love him."

Allen: What is your greatest fear?
"My girl dying before I've gotten the chance to hold her again..."

(

Fletchawk )

Allen: You married, and had a child with Seana during a time that the nation largely discriminated people of color, what are some hardships you've had to endure, if any?
"Oh, there were tons. Getting kicked out of places, the stares, the looks we had it all. Not only did working for the Sullivan's ensure she wouldn't be hurt, but it ensured I wouldn't have to smash some faces in. It was harder for Al, I think, considering she was just a kid during all of this and people would say things to her. The questions she asked made it even more important to me and Sen to teach her about herself and to ignore ignorance."

Allen: You worked quite closely with Jack Sullivan in the past, so what about him inspired your loyalty?
"He was about the family and his community. Growin up, I never really had that caring about you and what not. He wasn't selfish like everyone else he was about the people who were loyal to him, you know?"

Allen: Knowing what you do know, what do you consider to be your biggest misstep?
"Ha! My temper! I wouldn't be where I am now had I went to Jack first about what happened with Al... There would have been a plan in place to handle things more delicately."

Mel: Is there any head canon for Allen you'd like to share?
Hmm... I can't think of any right now~

Allen: You're an avid reader, so who's written work do you enjoy the most and why?
F. Scott Fitzgerald. He wrote about the 20's and the jazz age and he depicts it amazingly. I wish I could've enjoyed it more."

[/CENTER]

Misty Gray · Oct 11, 2019

Conor Sullivan

Conor: Do you think Ali still thinks about Tommy? If yes, how does that make you feel?
I'm pretty sure she does think about him... probably more often than I care to imagine, given that she still wears the bracelet he bought her just before he died. It makes me feel like shit, if I'm being honest. Shit for all kinds of reasons. I know Tommy was a much more decent lad than I was; honest, good-natured, and overall a guy who wouldn't have let Ali down the way I have. So it's hard not to think I'll never live up to the memory of 'St. Tommy'. And that right there is another reason I feel crap. Tommy was my friend and he never did anything wrong to any of us to warrant any resentment from me. I just wish Tommy had been a prick or that I hadn't known him, as it would make it much easier for me to hate that Ali thinks of him.

Conor: Would you want a third child?
Yeah, I would. But I know that can't happen until there's some stability. I've had a lot of time to think and watching the households my sisters have, I know I haven't done so well at the whole stability thing. I hope Ali will forgive me and give me another chance at this, because I now look at the amazing families my sisters have and I wish I could have that too. I wanted to be a responsible father, just like my old man was, and I want Leo to one day look up to me. Not because I'm cool (the coolest there is) and let him eat ice-cream, but because I was there, I taught him life lessons and I gave him a good life. Long story short... yeah, I want another kid and I hope it's Ali's.

Misty: When you first started this RP, did you think it would last this long?
I didn't think it would last this long, but I hoped it would. Before joining this forum, I'd been involved in a couple of other forums and I ran some RPs that each lasted over a year (including an X-Men style that eventually managed to cover ground over a 50 year period - plus some time-travel cameos). When I joined RPN, I joined a few really good RPs that ended up dying and I hate loose ends, especially when really engaging RPs suddenly die! So I decided to give it a go running my own. Although I know I have super nagging skills and motivation to stick at it, I was still worried I wouldn't find at least a handful of players who would stay with it for the long-term to keep it going. In all three of these mob RPs, there's always been enough committed players to keep them going.

Shout out to Bella: she's managed to keep doing this since the start of The Oath and is still playing now!

Conor: When/ If James steps down, do you think you will finally be ready for the job?
Jimbo stepping down? Yeah, like that's going to happen. The bloke is relentless and I don't think he knows how to quit. I know Luce would probably be much happier if he did, though...

Next year, I'll be the same age Dad was when he was killed. I had so much time to think while I was in jail and I kept remembering things my old man used to say; the lessons he'd taught me. Back then, I was only ever half-listening. The other half was distracted by going out on the piss or sleeping with women. Even though I was trying and I did want to impress my father, I wasn't taking it seriously for as long as he was alive to do the hard work. So when he died, I was way out of my depth and I wasn't mature enough to take over. That, and I was romantically attached to the enemy's daughter... Now, I've acknowledged the heap of mistakes I've made and Maddox has helped me to manage my aggression. I understand how this business works, that it's all good and well being physically imposing, but I've got to be smarter and use my head to fight the enemy. If for some reason Jimbo does step down, then I feel I'd be more prepared for it, this time. But, I won't deny I need his guidance right now.

Conor: What's Leo's birthday?
Ah, that one's easy! Exactly two weeks before Christmas Eve. 12th December.

Melanin-Gxdess

Conor: What is your favorite memory from when you and your sisters were younger?
I think I have all kinds of favourite memories from when we were kids. My favourite has to be that time we were kids and we were playing hide & seek. Tink went and hid under her bed. She was always a skinny little thing and even though she was so tiny, she somehow still managed to get stuck under the bed. It was fucking hilarious. Luce and I were in stitches. The more Tink got frustrated, the more we laughed. I had tears running down my face from it all, but I still remember seeing how relaxed and happy Luce was that day. Of course, Luce being as lovely as she is, she soon took pity on Tink and made me rescue her. Tink grumbled at us for laughing, but she soon found it funny herself and when Carrick eventually gave up hiding, she filled him in on the story herself. All four of us were together, all happy and not squabbling!

Funny thing, actually. We once played hide & seek, back when we were supposedly adults. Tink got stuck again. She never learns...

Conor: Do you regret not taking over the business back then?
No, I don't regret not taking over the business back then. I wasn't ready and I would have fucked it up. I don't think I would have been able to do what James did because I was emotionally attached to Alex and the plan was to murder her father. I would have hesitated and messed up those plans, which no doubt would have upset the Russians in the process.

I regret not being capable of taking over the business back then. I should have been ready but I wasn't and I feel bad that Luce's life could have been so much happier if James hadn't had to commit to the job for pretty much their entire married lives. I feel like I have yet to do my old man proud.

Conor: Who is your favorite sibling?
Hahaha. Yeah, like I'm going to pick a favourite and get stabbed in the face by one angry lady. I love Luce and Tink the same. I could never choose between them. What I can tell you, is that Carrick is my least favourite. I'm kind of pissed off with that little prick, again...

Conor: If you had just one drink for the rest of your life, what drink would it be?
Water, I suppose. It's the healthiest and right now I'm loving getting back into the swing of my fitness regime.

If we're talking just on the basis of pleasure and no health effects, then Guinness it is!

Bellz

Conor - What happened last time you saw Michelle?
That was back in '66, when she was 16. Rayna came over from Italy to visit James and Michelle came with her. We spent quite a bit of time together, catching up. She spent some time with her little brother, Leo and I took her shopping in the city. It was all kind of normal, other than the fact it was clear I'd missed out on most of her life and her mother was pissed off with me. Michelle and I got along really well, despite all of that. She still had that cheeky attitude, love of sports and that tough nature about her. I knew I couldn't take any credit away from Alex - it was all her, wasn't it? I want to see Michelle again, but I messed up for her just like I did for Leo and Ali. I promised Michelle I'd come see her in Italy for her 18th birthday. But, I was in jail by the time she turned 18...

Conor - What's been the most impactful lesson you learned while in prison and in what ways has it changed your life?
I guess it was to take responsibility for my actions and to realise whatever I do has consequences. I don't just mean how my behaviour affected my family, especially Ali and Leo when I was locked up. Even in prison, I was cocky and I threw my weight around. I made sure early on that the other prisoners wouldn't screw with me. But that kind of power didn't extend to the staff there. I spent a lot of time in solitary confinement and the guards were real dicks about it. They knew I could take physical punishment but they realised they could get at me psychologically. Keeping me segregated from the others for long periods of time and depriving me of food along the way. That also taught me that not all battles could be fought with violence and there would be times I'd need to use psychological tactics.

Conor - What do you love most about Aliana?
Ali is a tough woman, both physically and mentally. She knows what she wants and she has a fiery passion about her. I love strong women! She's smart and there's never a full moment with her around. She's an amazing mother and has been such a good friend to Tink. Also... obviously... she's smoking hot!

Misty - What are your favourite and least favourite things about Conor?
My favourite things would be his humour, protective nature, love for his friends/family, and his playful side. Least favourite would be that he acts on impulse, is hot-headed, and has so far been unable to settle down with a lady he loves.

Conor - What do you find more difficult: fatherhood or marriage?
Right now, I have to say marriage. I find it easy to shift into 'Dad Mode' when I'm looking after Leo and I'm not afraid to tell him off when he needs it. Also, I can be a big kid myself, so I know how to keep my boy entertained. Marriage is harder. Partly because I'm still in Ali's bad books, so everything is difficult right now. She's pretty damn stubborn, in case you hadn't noticed. It would be easy to just back down and call it a day, but I still love her and I'm working my balls off trying to get her to give me another chance. I'm not ready to give up on us yet.

Pyroclast

Conor: What kind of pet would you get if you got one?
Like most of my family, I love dogs, so that's one choice. But I also think bearded dragons are awesome. I'd love to have one of those little fellas!

Misty: From the first CS of Conor, to his latest scene, what's been the most unexpected thing to happen to him?
Even though right now he's made a mess of it, I think him settling down and getting married is probably the most unexpected thing that's happened. Since his first CS, it was inevitable he'd end up in trouble as even back then he was always getting into fights and winding up the cops. It's also no surprise he has two kids to different mothers, as he used to sleep around. I guess another surprise is that despite all of the violence and occasions where he's lost his temper, he's only ever killed one person (a secret only Aliana, Peter and Sinead know about). Compared to others in his family and the mob, his kill count is very low!

Conor: Now that you're staying away from the booze, what's your go-to drink?
I'm kind of hooked on Coke at the moment. I always did like the fizzy drinks before I was old enough for the booze.

Conor: If you had one wish, with no restrictions, what would it be?
I wish my old man had never been killed. We all still needed him back then. Me, Mam and my sisters. But, at the same time I know I can't wish for the past to be changed because that could affect the present and the people we have in our lives now. So, excluding wishing my Dad was here and not at the expense of everyone else who is here... I guess I'd just wish me and all of my family could have a normal life, free of all the danger and violence being committed to the mob invites.

Misty: What is you favorite scene with Conor?
It's been mentioned a few times lately, but I do like the one where he was tortured by Vinnie. It was just pretty tense at the time, first he was betrayed/set up by Angel and Alex. Then Vinnie finally managed to break him. It was a big turning point in Conor's development. He'd lived without consequence and the effects of the torture made him realise he wasn't invincible.

Fletchawk

Bugsy · Oct 12, 2019

KEEGAN LYNCH

Is that gasoline in your pants or are you happy to see me?

Keegan: In Liam's place, how well do you feel James has done at taking over the business in New York?

I would say pretty well considering everything that had happened. Liam had done a great job of having expanded, and James taking over. It hasn’t been a bed of roses, people have been killed, things have changed. Much rather kept it in the Sullivan name only, but Liam had his reasons.

New York City’s a hotbed of people crawling over one another wanting to get a piece of territory for themselves, James’ done well to keep our rivals away this far.

Keegan: What has been the worst experience of your life, so far?

Having part of my soul crushed after Ma told us Kev had been shot down. I’ve always looked after my siblings, they know that, Ma knows that. They’re my priority and to have Kev - perhaps one of my sweetest brothers out of all of us - killed? I had gone to a place I’ve never gone before in my mind. And the fact that I couldn't do anything to stop the bastards. For many nights, I thought that I could of stopped it, prevented him from dying but its the uncertainty of it all that gets me.

Keegan: Do you have any intentions of finding love and settling down?

I’ve had my fair share of lovers - birds - whatever you want to call them.

In short, no.

Why? They don’t interest me that much, fun for a night - not so fun when you have a ring around your finger and it’s just another way enemies can poke at your weak spots.

Keegan: What do you believe it will take to avenge Kevin?

Kevin, as I’ve mentioned, sweetest brother you could ask for despite the circumstances we grew up in; probably the cleanest kid on the block aside from Murph now.

What do I believe...Every Moretti fucker who was involved in his death, dead. They better keep an eye out and their mouths shut if they like breathing. Family is family, no matter what. No one messes with that.

Keegan: What's your favourite movie?

I don’t go out much to the movies, but if I were to have a favourite, MASH.

Keegan: Were you satisfied by what happened to Luke

Not really, I would have like to have drawn it out a bit. Yeah, the idiot decided to rile up Peter into shooting him to end his misery but I was just getting started, the nice guy act you saw? That was a ruse, I was never intending on giving the man any help. Though, I guess I could see where Peter was coming from when he blew the guy’s brains out, the man was dead weight. He wasn’t going to give us anything useful.

Bugsy: What inspired you to create Keegan

I was watching Dangerous Lady and it had Jason Isaacs in it, I couldn’t pass up the chance to make him into a mobster (which he played several after that) as well as seeing him play alongside David Thewlis in Divorcing Jack where he played another gangster. Also, I had an interest in making a mobster from the beginning and as such, he came to me rather easily when I was writing him up.

Keegan: What is your favorite thing to do in your downtime?

...Keeping my nose clean, counts? At least to the public eye.

Blackjack, poker, beat some lowly shopkeeper up for protection money. You know, the usual.

Keegan: What's your first opinion on the Porters?

My first opinion ...you're probably better off not knowing. My loyalties had laid, and still lay with the Sullivans but let’s just say I’ve warmed up to the Porters, they're extended family now.

Keegan - What dish would you cook to impress someone?

If I’m trying to impress Mam, cause she's the only lady I'd want to go out of my way to impress, an Irish Stew. She never really believes that I can cook anyway, so it’s always a surprise for her.

Keegan - Would you say that being the eldest of many siblings has made you merciful at all? Do you ever think of the family of your enemies?

Fuck mercy. She’s a bitch anyhow, always coming back to bite you in your arse. Do I ever think about the families of my enemies? Not really; if they stay out of being collateral damage - that’s a gold star for them. Otherwise, step in my way, or my family’s way, and you’re getting cut down.

Bugsy - What characters would you like to have Keegan interact with in future chapters?

Honestly, I’m game for anything. I want to get Keegan interacting with everyone but obviously it’s pretty difficult to and he’s not capable of teleportation. Probably getting him to butt heads with more enemies would be pretty satisfying.

Bugsy - Is romance something you're interested in exploring for Keegan?

As a writer, I’ve never really had planned for romance with any of my characters that I write. If it naturally happens and seems organic, I’ll go with it but most of the time, I don’t really tend to focus on that area as there are plenty of other ways and methods to stir up drama in Keegan’s life.

Keegan - What do you dream about at night?

It depends on the night. Sometimes, I barely dream, if at all. My dreams would be someone else’s nightmares.

Keegan: You were born a large family, how often do you keep in contact with them, and who is are you closest to amongst them?

I keep in contact with my brothers more than I do my sisters, more out of wanting to keep my sisters out of the lifestyle that I’ve dragged my brothers into. Though he shares the same name as the waste of space of a father, Patty Jr.’s probably the closest brother; like a right hand man, if you want to call it that.

Keegan: If it ever boiled down to the Mob vs. your family, whose side would you choose?

Family. Of course the answer should have been the Mob, but they weren’t the ones who had grown up in a shit-stained apartment with rats crawling up the walls, they weren’t there when I needed to provide food for my family, or when Mam was giving birth. Yeah, they’ve done a lot for me, they’ve made me who I am today but if I needed to choose, I’d choose blood.

Bugsy: What's the most difficult aspect of your character to write?

I think it’s his personality, how much he’s willing to reveal with words and how much he wants to reveal in his thoughts. Keegan’s a quieter character, a little bit on the reserved side but striking that balance with having him being an ice-cold killer is something that I sort of grew into with Luke; not the most violent scene I’ve written but I would say those are the two parts that are the hardest to write.

Bugsy: What drew to this RP?

Had a craving for a good mob roleplay, saw the predecessors and had joined wayyy back but couldn’t commit at the time before eventually returning.

Bellz · Oct 24, 2019

Roxie Carriveau

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Bugsy

Bella: What was your inspiration for Roxie, if any?
My inspiration for her comes from a part of myself, the social justice warrior part of me I guess XD Roxie and I have a lot of traits in common I think and we share a similar background story in terms of being rebellious as children into adulthood. I really aspire to be a role model for women and I think I've put a lot of that into her character as well. Like all of my characters she has a special place inside of my heart

Bella: How much has Roxie evolved/improved/changed since her creation
Well I've say she's changed a lot since her creation. With her relationship I really think she had to change..lol. Roxie was suppose to be a character who really didn't take shit from anyone but it seems like she takes shit from Syd now, which is a change but I see it as a character development for her. She's just adapting in a way she knows how and I really like to keep my characters flexible like that because its just more realistic.

Roxie: What do you think of your father?
My father...is an interesting man, I guess. Very calculated, careful...doesn't really do anything for fun. It's always about him and I am really starting to think that he thinks he's God himself. If there is a God. But he's good to my mother and that's really all I care about. I love him, oddly enough, guess that's family.

Roxie: Do you have a favorite drink?
I do enjoy a a Brandy Alexander.

Roxie: How do you think your life would have been if you were born no into wealth but into poverty?
Things would have been a lot different I am sure. My family might have been a lot closer if born into poverty but I don't think my father could handle it. I wasn't necessarily spoiled as a young girl so I'd like to think I would be the same as I am now. I would have probably gotten into a lot more trouble back then...if I'm being honest. There were some things about being wealthy that got me out of a lot of things...

Misty Gray

Roxie: What is your favorite childhood memory?
I would say my favorite memory was the first time I'd ever snuck out of the house. It was so exhilarating, the first time you get to break the rules. I had been grounded for skipping class, I had done that too many times to count but this time my parents were notified. I was around 13 at the time and I was hanging out with the high school kids across from my Catholic school. It was were I would go that next year and I was anxious to fit in. Well the group I hung out with had found the house that I was living in at the time with my parents and I snuck out the third story window with their help. It was so crazy, just remembering the feeling brings back so many memories. My parents would kill me if they knew about all the stuff I use to do, but that's one of my favorite memories.

Roxie: What do you think about the Porters as people?
Look, I always like to see the good in others...even if they have been actively accusing me of something I didn't do since day 1. I don't know them well enough to make any judgements but I do know one thing. They are wrong about me. Syd is the only one who has faith in what I say and I am grateful for him...but the rest. Right now...they can all just go to hell.

Roxie: What attributes do you believe make a good friend?
This is a hard one because I really make friends with anyone. But Savvy specifically, as that's who I feel we are secretly talking about...I feel she makes a good friend...a great friend actually because of how accepting she is of my faults. I get the sense she gets it from her mother, her kindness is just so pure. I think I love that the most about her, her purity. She really doesn't seem to have that rebellious streak like I do and its refreshing. She never stopped me though..which I love. Those attributes are important to me..

Roxie: If you could only save Syd or your father from a burning building, who would you save?
Well I've always wanted my father to burn in hell...so if that's the closest I would take it. Syd and I may have had our differences lately but I really don't know if I can get through everything happening without him. *sighs* Which I guess I'm saying I need a man to help me succeed. Great. I really don't like this question.

Roxie: Where do you see yourself in 20 years
God that's a long ways away. Well I guess I see myself as a mother with a hopefully not too rebellious 20 year old. I would hope at that time my father would have made me VP of the company so that I could do things a lot differently. Maybe I'm married... guess that really depends on certain factors. I would want to move away from the city...out of the state even and move somewhere like Vermont. A big white farm house with a wrap around porch and lots of property with trees as far as I could see. That would be really nice.

Pyroclast
Roxie-Before you got "locked down", did you ever used to dream about falling in love and settling down with someone? If so, what did that fantasy involve?
Well I wouldn't say I am necessarily "locked down" but if I'm being completely honest, I've never really dreamed about falling in love. It's never been in the cards for me I think, up until this point in my life. Settling down is something I've never really thought about but I guess its something that I need to think about, right? *nervous laughs* I think its overrated that most women seem to have that fantasy, really...

Roxie- Based on how things have been going so far, how do you see your future with Syd turning out?
Well this is quite the question...I see my future with Syd going couple of different ways. We could see eye to eye and things will work out well between the two of us...our feelings could mature. We could completely be in way over our heads and things don't work out well, we would have to split custody between the baby and move on with our individual lives. It could go any way really...and I'm not sure which I would rather have at this point.

Roxie-Was there anything you wanted to accomplish in life that may now be compromised by the child you're carrying? How do you plan to accomplish them now?
School has been hard enough with keeping a full time job...I'm finding it hard to imagine that I would be able to keep up with it once the baby is born. But a lot of other women have done more than I...so its not impossible. If things between Syd and I work out for the best, then I guess my plan would be to lean on him for some support with the baby...seeing as how he's been so helpful so far.

Roxie-What's one of your personal flaws that you are currently working to overcome?
I give too many chances. Which I think is a huge personal flaw of mine. I like to pretend I'm some tough chick with a lot of nerve but I think I've allowed myself to be run over far too many times to count. I am currently working on putting my foot down and setting boundaries, which is happening very very slowly.

Roxie- On the whole, do you feel like you make more compromises for other people or is it the other way around?
I think lately, I've been making a lot of compromises for other people...something I'd rarely done in the past. Its hard to know what has changed about me to do that but...I think I have a vague idea of what the problem is.

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Fletchawk
Bella: Any particular reason to select Alison Brie as FC for Roxie?
First off...I absolutely love Alison Brie lol. She is one of my favorite celebrities. Second, she's a real activist for women's rights and I feel that my FC should represent the character she is playing. Alison Brie was a perfect fit because she is a big part of the feminist movement which my character Roxie is all for.

Roxie-If you could only pick one, which photographer would you corner for their trade secrets?
Easy. Henry Cartier-Bresson. He is a master of candid photography and I would love to know how he captures that 'decisive moment' with everyone he sees behind the lens.

Roxie- What photograph that you've taken are you most proud of? I think the photograph I am most proud of is the one where I captured my father smiling at my mother...it was so genuine, candid...so pure. I've never seen him smile at me that way so to catch that foreign moment was absolutely stunning to me.

Bella-What's your favorite thing about Roxie?
Her spirit. She always seems to power through even in the hardest of times. That's what really makes her interesting to play. She gets so fire up about anything.

Misty Gray · Nov 14, 2019

Bradley Maddox Parker

Maddox: You decided to play the long game in avenging your father's murder. Do you ever find yourself tempted to take a faster route?
More often than I care to admit. There are times when I consider just how easy it would be to ruin James Porter's world. I have Syd and Conor in a position where they trust me, and I am in a position where I could now destroy their lives with little effort. Syd's mental state can easily be manipulated, especially since I reduced his medication. All it would take to get Conor locked up would be flick of a switch in his head and then a report from myself to the parole board. After which, Gabriel's intention is to have Sullivan killed in his cell.

I suppose if I ever did lose my patience, the thought of Moretti would be enough to put me off taking that faster route. The man has more power than I could imagine and I wouldn't have been able to get this far without the Morettis. To deprive him of his vengeance would surely be the final nail in my own coffin. I couldn't cross the man, even if I wanted to!

Maddox: What aspects of your personality have changed or developed since you became a psychiatrist?
I guess I've become more confident and in a way, empowered. As a kid, I allowed my step-father to bully me and I became all too familiar with the back of his hand. At the time and until more recently than I care to admit, I believed his strict ways were what gave me discipline and the desire to learn. Now, I realise he had no right to treat me the way he did, not when I had a real father who might not have been able to afford my education but he would have treated me far better. I was even a pushover in early adulthood, one such example was allowing some guy to accuse me of cheating at poker and then not being able to fight back when Arlene Sullivan had me beaten up by her security guards outside the mob's casino.

Specifically, I would say I've learned how to read people far better and how to use the things they tell me - be it verbally or non-verbally - to get the result I desire. With the likes of Syd and Conor, that result might be to draw out information from them or to play on their unconscious weaknesses. But it works he other way too. Outside of those patients linked to the mob, I treat good, innocent people. My care for them is genuine and my only focus is to help them overcome their psychological difficulties.

Maddox: What does happiness look like to you?
A detached bungalow in a quiet neighbourhood, with a beautiful garden and a loving wife to share it all with. Perhaps even a couple of kids and a family pet to make it all the more perfect. After spending years living in a third floor apartment in the middle of the city, I've realised how grim New York can be.

Still... I'm pretty sure that kind of happiness is nothing more than a pipe dream.

Maddox: At what point do you decide to give up on a client?
I can't think of a specific point where I would decide to give up on a client. As long as they need or want my help, I'm committed to delivering it. If it came to be that I believed I was failing them or unable to help them, I would make sure they receive the care they need from a fellow professional. I couldn't turn my back on them.

Maddox: Do you ever feel conflicted about manipulating Conor and Syd?
I suppose I do. With Syd, I can see he needs real help to overcome his past grief and traumas. At times, I wish I could forget what his family has done and give him the help he needs, but then I remember he's voluntarily a member of the mob and he's far from innocent. He chose to help his father. As for Conor, I know he's a Sullivan through and through. I'm aware of the way he threw his weight around in Dublin, even as far as beating up my uncles when they'd apparently crossed the mob. Yet, there is something endearing about Conor and his honest yet charming nature is at times enticing. In another life, he's a man I'd like being friends with, but in this life he's the enemy.

Maddox: Based on the troubles you have seen clients afflicted with over the years, what's one piece of advice you would give to the general public to ensure a healthy mind?
Don't bottle things up. People should not be afraid to seek help and advice from others. Whether with a counsellor or a loved one, they should not be ashamed to admit when they need help.

Pyroclast

Maddox: As a psychiatrist, do you believe that you are immune to some sort of personality disorder?
The mind is a very complex thing and I don't believe anybody is immune to having a personality disorder. So, no, I don't believe I am immune to that.

Maddox: What if your enemy saved Ani from death? Would you stop pursuing the Porters? Or would you still seek revenge?
That's a big if, isn't it? The Porters will have still been the ones who mercilessly gunned down my father and uncles, so they still need to face some form of justice for what they have done. If one of them saved Ani, then I would be inclined to stop pursuing revenge towards that particular person, yes.

Maddox: Have you ever heard of the term Sociopath? are you aware that your behavior lines up with the definitions so far?
Yes, of course I've heard the term "Sociopath" before! I am aware that my behaviour does fit the criteria when it comes to the subject of making sure the Porters are punished for what they have done. Since the day I had to identify the dead bodies of my father and uncles, I've been torn into two. I wish that part of me didn't exist, but I will never feel good until they've been avenged.

Maddox: Do you think there is such a thing as redemption?
Yes, I believe there is. Though I don't believe some people can have that. Some are beyond being saved and will never stop hurting other for their own greed.

Maddox: If you think the Porters are past the point of redemption, what do you think Ani will think of you once you carry out your plan?
I'm sure some of them are not beyond redemption - getting to know Conor has taught me that even a Sullivan can become a better person. But the fact is, the Porters and SullivanS have been doing this for decades and have never stopped wanting more power. They still bully, hurt and kill others to get what they want. I hope Ani will understand that I had to avenge my family and stop the Porters from bullying others. I would have preferred not to have been taken down this path, but I hope Ani can see I'm still a good person outside of this. I love her and I want us to be able to have a normal life after this.

Bellz

Misty Gray: What do you like most about roleplaying Dr. Maddox?
I like being able to explore the different sides of him. On the one hand, he's manipulative and cold, able to break a man without having to use any physical force or violence. You know, I like that he has power over them and can ruin Syd or Conor at the drop of a hat. But then there's the softer and caring side of him that loves Ani and cares for his "innocent" patients.

Maddox: Were you straight-edge student, or did you allow yourself to party once in a while?
I was the model student. I took my studies very seriously and enjoyed learning. It wasn't just because I'd get a thick ear from my step-father if I misbehaved, but I was simply the well-behaved, intellectual type. I didn't go to many parties as I preferred to hang out in smaller groups of friends and away from the more rowdy peers.

Maddox: Should you get vengeance for your father and uncles, what comes after? What's would be your next goal in life?
Ideally, I would like to put it all behind me and move on with my life, hopefully with Ani alongside me. More likely, I will continue to assist the Morettis. Gabriel wants to continue using my skills and contacts to help recruit more soldiers to his cause. Should he take over the city and be rid of the Porters, I'm aware he'd wish to have me on his payroll...

Maddox: Is there anything you found surprising about the Porters and their Mob associates whilst "treating" them?
I've found there's a human side to them that I didn't think existed. Not only Syd's previous love for his late wife or Conor's natural protectiveness over his loved ones, but other aspects too. They're close and loving to those permitted into their circle. Also, I've learned of the talented members, such as Savannah, Sinead and Gwen. I suppose I find it surprising to know there are kind and gifted people in the mob.

Maddox: If you could go back in time, what method would you use to keep your father from dying?
I would spend more time with him convincing him he didn't have to prove himself to my sister and me. I'd tell him it didn't matter how much money he had as I respected him for who he was. I would tell him to sell his pub and move somewhere out of the mob's territory. Anything to stop him from getting on the wrong side of the bastards.

Fletchawk

Bellz · Nov 23, 2019

Ani Sarraf

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Misty Gray
Ani: You have no choice but to kill either Ammon or Maddox. Who dies?
*gasps* What kind of a horrible and cruel question is that? I would never be able to choose between the two, ever. To even think about having to murder someone makes my head spin. That's my brother's job, not mine. If anything, I would take my own life to save theirs, that would be the right thing to do.

Ani: What is the worst thing you've had to do whilst working for Moretti/East Harlem?
This may contradict what I said in the first question, but my brother left me no choice only one time before. While carrying out a job for EH, my brother was taking his time torturing an older man. My job only cam into play once they were done for but my brother intended to carry out this man's death sentence for as long as he possibly could and I couldn't take the cries anymore. He begged for me to end it, pleaded as my brother went to grab more tools. I obliged by driving a knife directly into his heart...he thanked me as he passed on. That was the worst thing I've ever had to do. I hope to never have to do it again.

Bella: What do you enjoy most about playing Ani
I think the most thing I enjoy most about playing Ani is her innocence. A lot of my character's don't have that element to them and its refreshing to write. Sure, most of my character's are seeking for normalcy but everything Ani has done with her life has been for non selfish reasons which is different from my other characters. She wants to do good and be good but her brother's actions keep her from living the life she actually wants to live.

Ani: What kind of future do you think Ammon can have?
*sighs* This is a question that I've had to ask myself over and over again throughout the years we have been together...I come up with the same answer every time. My brother will never be normal, he will never change his ways...I thought by letting him have an out with EH would help keep him contained but its clear that's not going to happen. The future Ammon will have is one that saddens me...he's my brother, my twin...we both deserve happiness but that's not something he wants. He'll end up in the ward like Maddox suggested...hopefully, he will live out the rest of his days in there, where he won't be able to harm anyone ever again.

Ani: How do you feel about the Porters? Have they ever done anything to harm you?
Before I knew what the Porters had done to Maddox, I didn't think anything in particular of them. Dr. Sullivan has always been kind to me and has treated me with the upmost respect so I find it hard to imagine that he comes from a family full of monsters...don't tell Maddox...okay?

Pyroclast
Ani: What do you love about your twin brother?
Well, when he's not murdering innocent people, Ammon and I can have some pretty profound conversations. His look on the world is different from a lot of people including my own and though it may be twisted and dark, its still a perspective that has opened my eyes to who he is deep down. I love that we can talk when we do, even if its rare nowadays.

How did you end up working for the EH/the Moretti family?
Its an interesting story actually, I ended up doing emergency surgery on one of the EH members...once he recovered he had mentioned that the gang was looking for someone to patch up members at the headquarters someone who would do a good enough job to avoid taking a trip to the hospital. At the time, I kept finding dead dogs and cats inside of my apartment and I knew that Ammon was getting restless. I decided to meet with Alistair but told him that my services didn't stop at just mending his men. I told him about Ammon and his "talents." I don't know if the man took pity on me or what but Ammon and I found ourselves working for the gang permanently days later.

Ani: Having been abandoned in New York as a baby, how much do you know about your origins?
I don't know anything. I wish I had more to tell but I speculate that my parents were immigrants that came to this country illegally...I suspect that I was abandoned for safety reasons...to have a chance at a better life. At least that's what I like to think.

Bella: What would you say are Ani's flaws?
She's very naive and a big dreamer. Sometimes she has a hard time coping with the reality of things

Misty Gray · Dec 3, 2019

Ethan "The Butcher" Turner

Ethan: Weapon of choice?
Definitely knives. Be it as simple as one of my butchers tools or a hunters knife, I'm in my element. I'm not against putting a bullet in some prick's skull, but guns finish the job too fast, so there's nothing to savour from that. I might as well takes some enjoyment from it.

Ethan: What would you say the singular most important need for success is?
In the context of my line of work, I'd say it's having minimal attachments. The more friends and family you have, the more there is holding you back. Your enemies will have something to threaten you with and a way of asserting control.

Ethan: Do you think there is any chance of you going on the straight and narrow and making a life away from the East Harlem Gang?
There's no chance in Hell of that happening. I haven't been on the straight and narrow since I was 10 years old. My bastard of a dad had me out on the streets with him conning people since I was a kid. I can't say I've ever had any intention of changing. Even before I met Rose, I was out beating and torturing people to earn some extra cash.

Ethan: How do you view Alistair?
Alistair is the person I admire the most and the closest thing to a good friend. We both have similar views on the world and rarely disagree when it comes to methods needed to carry out the jobs required. He's the only person I'm willing to take orders from. Ultimately, I know Gabriel Moretti is running the show and I respect the man's fighting spirit, but I'd be more inclined to take orders from Alistair than the Italian.

Ethan: Why don't you just work in your butcher shop and not with the gang?
I love my shop, but it doesn't offer the same sense of purpose and fulfilment as the gang does. Honestly, I enjoy the work I do for the gang. Killing Arlene Sullivan and torturing Syd Porter? You don't get that kind of satisfaction chopping up dead animals.

Misty: How did you come up with the inspiration for Ethan?
To be honest, I'm not sure. It's likely he's influenced by characters I've seen in movies/TV but not consciously aware of it. I do know I wanted to create a character with no good side or redeeming qualities. Often, my bad guys have a good side or something people can sympathise with them for. Ethan has no compassion, no moral code, no grey area. There's no saving this guy.

Misty: When making Ethan, did you come up with the face first or the background?
Definitely the face. Michael Fassbender was in my "FCs to use" folder.

Misty: Why doesn't Ethan have a middle name?
I guess his parents [me] didn't give him one. He comes from a simple family with no time for fancy middle names, or something like that...

Misty: What sort of things are you planning for Ethan in the near future?
He's probably going to have some more fun chipping away at the Porters. I have some ideas that I feel would be spoilery to share. Rest assured, he won't be falling in love again and he won't be joining the hippies any time ever.

Bugsy

Ethan: Is there anything you wouldn't do for the sake of the gang? What do you think Alistair would do if you refused to carry out a job?
I don't think there's anything I wouldn't do. If there was something I disagreed with, I would voice my opinion but ultimately leave it for Alistair to decide upon, whether my input sways his decision or not. I have yet to refuse a job, though I suspect he'd lose some respect for me or if it was something significant, I might find my own neck on the chopping block.

Ethan: How secure do you feel as a member of the gang? Do you feel protected, stable, trapped etc. ?
As I have no intention of betraying or failing the gang, I feel very secure in my position. I put myself there voluntarily and there's no part of me that feels trapped. I feel right at home when I'm with the gang and if I did do something to disappoint them, then I probably deserve any punishment I get.

Ethan: What do you think you would be like in Alistair's position?
Ah, I'm not sure I'd be much good. Alistair is more of a leader than I am. I don't have the kind of patience for the meetings he attends with Moretti, Stefano and Dr. Parker. I'm happy to supervise and train some of the other members, like Ammon, but leading the gang is a whole different ball game.

Ethan: Do you believe in an afterlife? Do you find yourself communicating with Rose?
Not at all. Once you're dead, that's it. Either burnt to ash or a rotting corpse, there's nothing after that. Rose was gone forever the minute she was shot dead.

Ethan: Are you open to the idea of falling in love again? What's stopping you from looking for romance?
No, falling in love with Rose was enough of a shock. I don't think there's a chance any other woman could fall in love with a man like me and I have no intention of changing my ways to make it possible. The fact is, losing Rose showed me my weakness. In the business I'm in, it would make me a liability if I fell in love and had someone who could be used against me. Now I'm happy just screwing women once or twice then ditching them.

Pyroclast

Ethan: Do you believe in redemption?
Not really, no. I know I won't change my ways and I have no intention of seeking redemption. Where the likes of the Sullivans and Porters are concerned, I don't believe in it for them either. They've been actively living that life for too long to ever see the error of their ways. They chose their path and there's no going back on that.

Ethan: What's your take on the following quote? "An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind."
That sounds like some hippy bullshit to me. If anyone crosses me or my cause, then they deserve punishment in return. The world will never stop being sick, so the best I can hope for is to be on the winning side. The Mob will only learn from their mistakes through suffering and loss, not through talking and healing.

Ethan: What are some little things that remind you of your late wife?
Classical music often reminds me of her. I would always be listening to rock and roll music, but she would get on to me telling me to open my mind to other genres. Her favourite was classical. Then there's 'Snow White', which was her nickname on account of her black hair and pale skin.

Misty: In your mind, what kind of person was Ethan before Rose was killed?
He was on the path to being what he is now. Before Rose, he enjoyed hurting other people and showed no remorse for it. Being with Rose softened him up to where his crimes were more along the lines of fraud and drug dealing. When she died, he felt no desire to be a better person and quickly fell back into his old ways, only getting worse as time went on, to where he is now.

Ethan: What did Rose think of your escapades?
She wasn't keen on the whole killing and torturing stuff, so I stopped doing it whilst she was in my life. Rose didn't mind the fraud, thefts and dealing, though, as she liked the fancy dinners and nights out it bought us. She was something of a thief herself, albeit nothing too serious or dangerous to others. Whatever she did, she was an angel compared to me...

Fletchawk

RayPurchase · Dec 15, 2019

Misty Gray
Tony: What's your beef against the Irish?

“You mean aside from runnin’ me out of my own fuckin’ home town because of one little scrap in a bar, so a barman got sent sent flyin’ through most of his own stock and had to get 15 stitches. Bastard had it comin’, can’t remember what he said, but it definitely pissed me off. Not only the personal vendetta though, still a fair few lads I know in the service who have been shipped out to Belfast and the north. It’s an absolute shit show up there, and who’s providin’ safe havens and weapons? Fuckin’ Mick bastards south of the border. A lot of these squaddies aren’t even hardened veterans, they’re just kids hardly out of pampers, sent their to keep the peace. Thrown to the wolves, Irish Fucking Wolves,”

Tony: How do you feel about your father?

“Not a lot really. He’s dead… been buried for 30 odd years now, I’ve gone by years at a time without the prick popping into my head. Best thing he ever did for me and my Ma was gettin’ himself blow to kingdom come. He was a shit husband, and he was an even worse father. If he’d stuck around for a few more years I probably would have ended up batterin’ him myself, so maybe the bomb was good for him as well. He was an arsehole and he got a nice quick easy way out. Dependin’ on who you speak to I’m like a chip off the old block. Find it hard to argue against it sometimes, definitely get my temper from him. But hittin’ his own kids? Fuck that, I’ve done a lot of bad stuff, but never nothin’ towards kids. Not like him,”

Tony: Are there any family members you keep in touch with?

“Ma’s dead, and she was probably the one I was closest to or had any contact with. Passed away about 5 years ago now. I’d been sendin’ portions of my pay back to her, enough to keep her comfortable in her last years. Her hearin’ and sight had more or less gone by the end of it, was bein’ looked after by one of my aunts, well I say aunt, there wasn’t any blood relationship there. I’ve got a half brother, Reggie, from a bloke my Ma married after dad was out of the picture. Last I heard he’s still in London workin’ in the docks, seems like I was the only one to get out of there, rest of the Harris’ can be found in a 1 mile radius. They’ve all got their own thing goin’ on, and none of them can really afford the air fare over the pond, and there’s still Irish money on my head in London. Easier this way, they don’t bother me and I don’t cause trouble for them. Safer too, our family reunions were made up of fighting first and catching up second,”

Tony: What do you really think about Gabriel Moretti?

“Well I respect the bloke. Not just because he’s the one payin’ me though, dog biting the hand that feeds it and all that. Hell I had some truely shit officers back in the forces, and I fuckin’ let them know about it, no panderin’ or mincein’ words there. Look the bloke locked down Miami for gods sake, place was a fuckin’ mess before hand, but that city was his, combination of sweet words and an iron fist. I mean I made up the second part of that strategy, Teddy was more the former, but Moretti balanced it beautifully. More than happy to give us a loose leash, stuck up with his belief in our talents. Now that’s fuckin’ trust yeah? No hand holdin’ or keepin’ us back, he knew what needed to be done, and he knew what his boys were capable of and let us get on with it. And now the Porters. He’s had his eye on the Big Apple for a while, but he didn’t just go chargin’ in like a bull in a china ship as is my specialty, and fair fuckin’ play, it’s gettin’ results, and he’s keepin’ me paid, full and happy. He can do whatever he likes in his sparetime, the man runs a good ship, that’s all I care about,”

Ray: What do you most enjoying about playing Tony?

It’s got to be the sheer bluntness of him. Playing MItch is like a surgical scalpel, everythnmg is precise and measured, what he says and what he thinks are more often than not two very different things. Whilst this is enjoyable there is something pleasurable with the proverbial sledgehammer that is Tony. If he’s unhappy, you’re going to know about it, and if he’s really unhappy you’re going to really know about it. Despite this to a certain extent a 2D nature of him in that he’s not going to be one for nuances, he’s got an interesting background and psyche (which as longs as he survives the coming weeks will be very interesting to explore) shaped by an abusive and rough childhood where the only escape was through crime, and then the inherent violence of the armed forces, and so what choice did Tony have of becoming a well rounded individual?

Tony: Who was the toughest nail to hammer down in a fight, and did you win?

“I mean there’s been a few ‘nails’ who have been too stubborn for their own good. If we’re goin’ for toughest nail about its got to be Boris the Blade. Turned up in Putney in the 60s, depending on who you talked to he was either ex KGB or a former boxer who they pumped full of experimental drugs. Either way he was 6 foot 4 and built like a brick shithouse. Anyway he ended up pissing off the wrong kind of people, I don’t know what he did, or said or looked at the wrong way, whatever. I got called into my boss’s office and he said he’s got to be roughed up, I didn’t ask why, that answer was above my pay grade, people just pointed, and I made the problem go away. So I’m thinking to myself, well this is goin’ to be easy isn’t it. Old Boris may have been a bit of a legend locally, but he’s got no idea i’m comin’, and I had full faith in my abilities to knock his block off. So I turn up at his local waterin’ hole, he’s a regular there, but the patrons and staff know not to mess with any trouble that goes down there. I walk in and eyeball him sitting at the far end of the bar, back to me. Now I think to myself, Tony, this is perfect, like I couldn’t have planned this better myself. I swan on over, pickin’ up an empty bottle as I go, and I fuckin’ clobber him around the head. This enough to if not send him sprawlin’, then at least leave him doubled over momentarily out of the fight. Turns out not fuckin’ Boris. Doesn’t even flinch. That is until I go to get him in a headlock, looks like he’s pushin’ 50 odd but he moved like a goddamn gazzelle, out of that chair turned round fast as you like and ‘Bam’! I wake up half an hour later with a busted nose, and Boris nowhere to be found, bloke had scarpered. Turns out I was the 3rd person in as many months to try the same thing. I was also the luckiest seein’ how I was still able to eat solids after my run in. Last I heard he’s still about, probably still crackin’ heads, reached the point that he’s almost a legend in the community. Only people still after him are brave, mad or both. Only guy who’s managed to pull that sort of trick on me, and I wear that like a badge of honour,”

Tony: In your opinion, who's the best footballer of your time, and why?

“Opinion has nothin’ to do with it. It’s Gordon Banks, anyone who says otherwise is an idiot or a West Ham fan, and those two pretty much go hand in hand most of the time. Won us the World Cup in ‘66 against the Krauts, and did you see Pele’s shot he saved last year? Fuckin’ sublime. Was watching it in bar in Miami, only England fan there, went absolutely mental, beer everywhere. Course Brazil ended up winnin’ the game, but that was alright, was plenty of Brazil fans to take it out on, smug gits,”

Tony: What's your idea of a perfect woman?

“Well she’d have to be blind first of all, this here ain’t no Da Vinchi eh?” *Tony points at his mug, a grin forming* “Seriously though perfect woman… Just someone who’s goin’ to have the fire roarin’, a cup of tea waitin’ and dinner on the table when I get home. I’m a simple man with simple tastes, I don’t need some supermodel or an arm candy hangin’ off me as I leave the club, not like Teddy, christ that man and women, like flies to a turd they are. So yeah, let Teddy have the stunner, I’ll just stick with the one who can stitch me back together,”

Tony: As a gambler, are you more of a superstitious man, or does it just boil down to cold hard numbers for you?

“Well its a bit of both isn’t it. You bet on the outlier each time you’re goin’ to end up losin’ a heck of a lot between your big wins. So you need to be savvy about it. But at the same time you can do all the research, pourin’ over numbers and stats, have copies of the Racin’ Post stapled to your bedroom walls, but once you’re down at the track, none of that actually means anythin’. It’s right there and then, you trust your gut, if you’re on a hot streak, you ride that fuckin’ pony. Same with everythin’ it’s all luck and how you can foster that luck and keep it goin’. I’ve got my little ‘pre match’ ceremonies and habits, clearly they work otherwise I would have been royally buggered ages ago, not just gamblin’ mind you, just life you know? Places I’ve been, boys I’ve fought with, was I any better or braver or stronger than the ones who didn’t come back? Like hell, none of that matters; right time, right place, and a shit ton of luck. That’s what gets you through. I’d rather be lucky than clever any day of the week,”

Ray: If you could match Tony against any character in the RP for a brawl, who'd you pick, and how'd you think he'd fair?

Few weeks ago I would have said Conor. They’re both big guys, hot tempered and incredibly prideful, you’d pretty much bill it as the heavy weight championship match. Both have good reach, good amount of strength as well. I’d say maybe I’d put my money on Tony, Conor’s got 2 inches on him so he’ll have better reach, but Tony’s 6 years younger so he’s got some youth on his side. So I’d bet on Tony, but wouldn’t be surprised by Conor winning, but both would be in a pretty bad shape.

Given the recent developments in the RP however, I’d have to replace Conor with Keegan. Now the size and weight gets skewed the other way, Tony’s bigger and heavier, but there’s only a 2 year age gap here. However given that Tony killed Quinn, and I reckon Keegan is a dirty bastard when it comes to fighting, we’d have a proper scrap on our hands here, eye gouging, low blows, nothing would be off the cards. Straight fight between the two we’re looking at Tony. A brawl however? I’d say it evens.

Misty Gray · Jan 8, 2020

Gabriel Moretti

Gabriel: Did your experience in the second Great War change your outlook on the Mob mentality?
I suppose my time in the war taught me to treat the business as more than that. I believe it contributed to why I approach the likes of the Irish Mob as enemies like those fought in the war, therefore my approach to taking them down is to adopt similar methods. I've adopted a strategic approach, forming allies in those serving a common purpose and shared enemies. I've always enforced strength and discipline in my employees. As is the case with Alistair's and Stefano's gangs, having committed soldiers fighting with us has also been of great importance. Maddox proved a valuable asset in recruiting experienced soldiers to our cause. Granted, many of them are men I have no issues with placing directly on the front line.

Gabriel: Did you ever have any personal run-ins with the Sullivan affiliates from Chicago, A.E Emmet or Ronin?
My family has tended to focus operations on the East Coast; particularly New York and Miami. However, I did cross paths with Emmet Sullivan in the late 1940s. My father had something of an alliance with the Romanos back in Sicily, which on occasion took Francesco and I to Chicago where Vincenzo Romano operated. I remember respecting the way the man ran things in Chicago. During my time there, I attended a dinner party Emmet and his wife were present at. I wasn't impressed back then and you only have to look at his son, Conor, to realise those Irish rats have always lacked discipline. Granted, the Sullivans somehow managed to seize control over Chicago, which I found most disappointing of the Romanos.

Ronan Porter was before my time. I have learned James' lowlife father was killed in the late 1930s, but I was only in my mid-teens back then. Thus, I never had the misfortune of meeting the waste of space.

Mostly, my family's experiences with the Sullivans have been in New York, starting with Jack and then Liam. I intend on wiping out the rest of the Sullivans soon enough.

Misty: What was your inspiration for the big bad Moretti?
I'm not sure if I can pinpoint a specific person, character or piece of fiction for this. I know I do have a fondness for old-fashioned, intelligent and domineering villains. Added to that, I also like bad guys with a kind of Gothic and well-tailored aesthetic about them.

One thing I've tried to do for much of Gabriel is make him a character with little room for people to feel compassion for him or find much in the way of redeeming qualities. Even Vinnie Romano I had times where I felt sorry for him and understood him. Gabriel is quite self-centred and malevolent - he's even a homophobic jerk to his daughter. There is still potential to see a nicer side of him, but I know for certain we've not yet seen the worst of him...

Enzyme

Gabriel: In what ways do you find New York City different to Miami in terms of managing business?
Managing business in New York is much more intense. Miami was a walk in the park in comparison and much easier to maintain control of. New York is a challenge and the stakes are higher. Things move much faster and a greater level of aggressive force is required. There little time to rest but the eventual pay-off will be far greater than what I have in Miami. Overall, a much heavier hand is needed in New York and I like that.

Gabriel: Is there anything you find difficult to talk about with your wife?
Mostly, our daughters and their relationships. I'm not sure I'll get my head around Tatiana's sexuality any time soon and it's not something I'm not comfortable talking about with Elvian, as I know she'll try to talk me around. Valentina's love life is something I'd rather avoid too. I know she spent too much time alone with Calvin for me to care to imagine and considering he turned violent towards her, I prefer not to know. He wasn't violent again after that mistake, I can assure you...

Misty: What have been the greatest changes to Gabriel's personality over the years? What triggered those changes?
Gabriel has become colder and more ruthless. Murder, torture, psychological destruction; there's very little Gabriel won't do to take control of New York. Whilst he was a forceful and cold man before, the murder of most of his family triggered him to become as malevolent as he is now.

Gabriel: What's the first hobby you would pick up if you had the time?
That's a difficult question as I've never had much time for hobbies. I think I'd quite enjoy spending time exploring museums and historical buildings. Perhaps spend more time in Europe. But there's no time for entertaining those kinds of ideas.

Misty: Which other character from our Irish Mob universe do you think Gabriel would get along well with and why? Could be dead or alive and from any part of the saga.
Gabriel would get along with Vinnie Romano as he too disliked the Sullivans and the Porters. He'd also admire the way the man ran Chicago at his peak, though he'd be disappointed to know he wasn't able to defeat the Sullivans/Porters in the end.

Angel would also be the kind of man he'd get along with, appreciating his apparent loyalty and his willingness to kill targets without hesitation. Plus, he seems to enjoy the company of sociopaths!

I feel like whilst he would like the methods and shared enemies within the IWU, he wouldn't really be into their cause and so there would likely be personality clashes with the key players of the IWU.

Pyroclast

Gabriel: What was the lowest point in your life, and how did it affect you?
That would be when most of my family were murdered by the Porters at Francesco's birthday party. With my father and older brother dead, the family name and all of its business felt into my hands. Until then, I'd be running Miami under Francesco's instructions. I'd always wanted to do things my way and so I easily stepped into the leadership role. As for how the deaths of my loved ones affected me, I will admit there was a period of mourning, a few months where I felt an immense sadness for the loss of my close relatives. Elvian was my rock and I couldn't have loved her more for it. Rather than continue to wallow in my grief, I would say it motivated me further. Seeing what the Porters were capable of made me further willing to use any methods necessary to take control of New York and not to lose any sleep over those who will suffer in the process. This is business and I will take down as many of Porter's family as is necessary to take the city from him.

Gabriel: Favorite memory of your family?
I would say Christmas back in Italy, when I was much younger. It was always a big event with all of the family present. In fact, it was just about the only time we saw our father laugh and have fun with us all. Business always came first with him. As a child I didn't quite understand why my father wasn't around much, but I suppose I have now followed in his footsteps.

Gabriel: If you could choose another lifestyle for you and yours, would you, and what would it be?
I think I'd still want to own my own businesses, but perhaps they'd be legitimate ones. Elvian would own her florists and I'd quite like to run my own brewery. I'd certainly be more encouraging of my kids' further studies. I'm sure Marcus would like to have some time to devote to his sports, at least.

Gabriel: What line you will never cross?
I wouldn't directly have children killed or attacked during this war. Granted, there's every chance a kid could be harmed in the crossfire and that's just the way things are, but I'm not interested in actively punishing those who are too young to understand all of this. Their elders should be taking steps to keep them away from this war.

Misty: Moretti family came into the RP second to Alistair and his East Harlem, and after several chapters into the RP. Was this planned beforehand, and why bring in a third major faction?
This was planned beforehand. The first bad guy I planned before the RP started was Maddox, and then Moretti followed as the counsellor had to be aligned with someone powerful enough to even attempt getting at the Porters. It was intended that Maddox would be a seemingly good guy for the first few chapters and the big bad guy wouldn't be revealed until a few chapters in either. I wanted to keep some mystery and twists for the RP, and I also think it served well at giving East Harlem and Stefano the limelight. They could be established as real threats before Moretti's part in it all was known.

A key theme I wanted for this instalment was about our characters' pasts catching up with them and Moretti is a big part of the Porters' past that's now caught up with them. Similarly, Maddox has been dragging the past up for both Syd and Conor. Arlene was murdered by the East Harlem guys because of her past actions against them. It's a theme I believe will continue to affect more characters, so beware...

Fletchawk

Enzyme · Jan 19, 2020

Jackson McCarthy

Jackson: Have you ever had to carry out a job for the Porters that you disagreed with? What was it?
James and I have always been pretty much on the same page. He wanted people taken care of and I was always there to do it for him. We have the same morals - no women, no children. The jobs I'd carry out were, more often than not, something I had been a part of planning out. Now that I think about it, there was one occasion back in Dublin where some guy wasn't renewing his protection policy. It wasn't anything particularly against him, he just happened to be the poor bastard James chose to make an example out of. James had me put a bullet in his head and then hang him from his store's window. It wasn't so much the... Eh... Ethics of it. It was more having me on public display as I strung him up. I guess that was the one time I questioned his methods. Here I am, not locked up, so what the fuck do I know?

Jackson: Who is the most difficult adversary you've fought against?
Ah, that's a toughie in'nit? I mean, they don't call me "Casúr" for nothing. In a good ol' fist fight, though, it's gotta be this one nutjob from back in my ring days. Nothin' but love for the bloke, but boy was he just a rabid dog. It wasn't so much the size, really. He was just an animal, would sprawl out on all fours and just come at ya'. Other than him, everyone else had been roughly less than a disappointment. It's bloody Ireland and no one can hang toe to toe. It's embarrassing really. Well, except this one roided-up bloke working for the IWU, but we don't talk about him - may he rest in peace.

Jackson: What kind of future do you want Natasha to have?
Pfff, anything but fuckin' this. Only love and respect for my friends and family in the business, but Natasha goin' nowhere near it. She can do whatever she wants, I'll support it wholeheartedly. The two things she'll never touch, though, is a contract or a pole. Enough said.

Jackson: What are your greatest fears?
I don't fear much, other than the occasional clown. I guess my biggest fear would be to lose someone under my watch. There's no bigger gut punch than having someone's life in your hands and letting it slip. It's happened once before and will never happen again.

Jackson: Blake and Natasha aside, which people in your life do you most care about?
I wouldn't say I have a hierarchy because I'm not built like that. If I did, Natasha and Blake would of course be on the very top. I know you said them aside, but they don't get enough attention. I miss them like crazy and the fact that you even brought them up is absolutely fucked. What was the question? Ah, right. Well, I guess it's no competition. Gotta' go to the bloke that's been there for more since the beginning. No one's replacing Conor. Unless, of course, he sobers up and becomes a priest, then I might be open to applications.

Jackson - What's your life's motto? Where does it come from?
Fuck, it's gotta come from my caretaker. He wasn't the best father figure, but he was the best I'd ever get. Back when I was under his watch, me and few dozen kids would deliver packages all over Dublin. One night, some wank had tipped off the Gardai and when we arrived at an apartment district, we'd walked straight into an ambush. Everyone got locked up that night, well, everyone besides me. I fought through their hands and got away. I told my caretaker that I had just gotten lucky and the other boys, not so much. He said it was more than that, he said "Luck is somethin' else. Luck is winning or losing. Out here, you survive or you surrender. That's determined by your spirit. Wolves don't kill catch unlucky deer, they catch weak ones." Ever since I was told that, I saw the world with a different pair of eyes.

Enzyme - What or who gave you the inspiration for Jackson's character?
I'm not really sure if it was anyone in particular, to be completely honest. When I see a crew, I see it like a military platoon. In that regard, Jackson would be the joker of the group, but he's also so much more than that. I had always written such manacle characters and never really had the chance to give them any depth, other then just some redeeming quality. With Jackson there was a whole new avenue I could take.

Jackson - What's one memory that you hold dear to you, but will never talk about?
Well, answering this question would go against that, wouldn't it? You'll just have to imagine that I have feelings.

Jackson - How has becoming a father changed you as a person? Has it affected your worldview or the way you do your job?
For people who say, "Nothing can prepare you for fatherhood," they can get fucked. I had always thought that I would struggle with it, cause I never had a dad of my own, but it's the easiest thing in the world. All you gotta' do is give your kid the love they deserve and make sure they don't fall off the swings. I guess it never really changed anything 'about me', but I never realized how much love had to give until I saw Natasha in the bassinet. Being a father is one of the greatest feelings in the whole world and I wouldn't trade it for anything. When it comes to work, I can separate my family life pretty easily. I've always had a job to do and having a kid doesn't change my approach. So far, it's worked out well.

Jackson - What was the last life-altering thing you learned about yourself? How and when did you become aware of it?
It happened when I 17 and I killed my first string of targets. It took a long time for me to accept what I'd done and during that, I was still completing hits, just piling bodies on my fragile mind. I couldn't sleep, I couldn't eat, I couldn't even look at my reflection. I was so horrified with what I'd become that being stuck in a room alone with myself was absolutely petrifying. It took time, a lot of time, but I was able to come to terms with who I was and what I'd done. After that, the pain went away and now I can't even remember what it felt like. Haha.

Jackson: Conor Sullivan. How would you describe your relationship with him?
Ah, that guy. That fuckin' guy. Well, I guess he's the closest to a brother I'll ever get, which is bloody well fine by me. It's strange, though, because whenever I talk to someone with one [a brother], all they talk about is wantin' to fuckin' kill 'em. Conor's the last person in the world I'll ever get angry with because he knows me too well. He knows my soft side almost as well as my wife and I honestly think the Missus gets a lil' intimidated from time to time.

Enzy : What was the process of creating Jackson?
Jackson was an experiment for me to create the most believable hitman I could. I poured different emotions I had experienced into him as if he were a concoction. Through the creative process, I had given him so many layers, that he's really not an extension of myself anymore. From the first introduction of his character, I knew he was something special. Soon there after, he became a person of his own. I think that is one of the greatest accomplishments a writer can achieve, and I don't think I could ever replicate that success again. In conclusion, I love him to depth and he never ceases to surprise me.

Enzy: Any moments that surprised you as Jackson?
Oh yeah, all the time. Most recently it was when he opened up to Conor about his early experiences killing. I had always assumed killing had rolled off Jackson's shoulders with ease, even from the beginning. He's a calm dude with nothing to hide, so I didn't see why it wouldn't. Then, it turned out it had haunted him for almost a year and is a large reason why he can't remember a lot of his childhood. All the sudden, I'm writing for a character with repressed memories and feelings and I didn't even know it.

Jackson: Do you keep track of the lives you've taken?
Course not. That's like asking a barkeep if he keeps up with his drinks served, or a bookie with his bets placed. It's just a part of the job at the end of the day. Giving somethin' like that importance only complicates things and in a profession where almost every step could mean life or death, there's really no room for that. If I had to guess? Well, I don't think numbers go that high and if they do, my primary school education doesn't really meet it's standards.

Jackson: If you could change one thing in your past, what would it be?
I don't live with a lot of regret, but I guess it'd have to be letting my guard down. There's really no reason you shouldn't always be prepared for everything. When I had people's lives in my hands, I played it safe and I didn't pay the price, they did. Tommy would be here if I had gone one step further with my precautions and because I didn't, he didn't make it to 25. I don't let it haunt me because when somethin' like that happens, all you can do is learn from it. I sure as hell learned from that.

Misty Gray · Feb 1, 2020

Warren Taylor

Warren: What are some things you miss from Italy?
Aside from my parents and my younger siblings? I miss my friends and going out drinking with them. There's also the beach. We all used to spend most weekends at the coast; either sunbathing or playing sports. Most of my friends settled down and got married, so I guess it was time for me to grow up too.

Warren: What do you think it is about your brother that makes others gravitate towards him?
James? I don't have a bloody clue. He's pretty serious and moody, right? Nah, In all honesty, I think it's because he really cares about people and it's only when you get to know him that you realise how much. I'd say he's generous, fair and always has his family's best interests in mind. I think people know he has a heart, and as a boss, they see a strong and committed man.

Warren: What are some things you don't like about James?
He can be stubborn and uptight. Like, you've got to get him really drunk before he'll even consider dancing! It also pisses me off how he doesn't contact Mum enough because he thinks he's not good enough to be part of her family because of his criminal lifestyle. Having spent most of my life with Mum, I know that's not true yet he's too stubborn to listen to me and Lucy on the matter. It also annoys me that he treats me like I'm not capable of making my own life choices. I choose to stay in New York and I want to help him with the business, yet the same conversation about me stepping away from it keeps on cropping up. James and my Dad don't like each other, but patronising me is something they've got in common!

That lot aside, I love being around my brother and I wouldn't give that up for anything.

Misty: You tend to create large families of characters, to not only fill out their stories, but to role play with as well. Are there difficulties in creating unique personalities while still trying to make them similar enough as a family?
I don't think I find it too difficult... or I like to think I do it successfully? I like to try incorporate some similarities between family members whilst also making them unique characters to each other. James and Warren for the most part have different personalities, but they do share some traits, such as being uncomfortable at big parties and enjoying working out. Warren is more easy-going and openly flirtatious than James, though.

Warren: If you could have one selfish wish, how would you utilize it?
That's a hard question. I'm not quite sure...

Well, I suppose it could be something shallow. Maybe I could wish to meet and eventually marry Raquel Welch. She's pretty hot!

Fletchawk

Warren: What happened the last time you saw your father?
Well, we were already fighting since I'd quit University and started a building apprenticeship instead. I wanted to make enough money to support myself rather than living off of my Dad's handouts. The last time I saw him was when I was leaving for New York. He tried to talk me out of it and told me I was better off in Italy. It kind of got personal with him telling me James wasn't worth my time and we got into some dumb argument with him telling me I was throwing my life away. Mum got involved and made sure we apologised to each other. So, Dad and I hugged, but there was definitely a frosty atmosphere when I left. He's come around now and we talk often over the phone, but he's still wanting me to go back to Italy.

Warren: Aside from James, who would you say you feel closest to?
I'm closest to my mum, even if we are only in contact over the phone these days. Aside from that, James has been shifting me around in my duties a lot lately, but I've been learning quite a bit about Savannah and Keegan, so I'm enjoying getting to know them two more. Savannah reminds me a little of my sister, Maria; and Keegan's taught me quite a bit whilst out on jobs together.

Warren: When you're not out on duty, what do you do in your free time?
I enjoy going out for drinks with some of the lads. Conor's pub can be fun, but mostly I like the quieter clubs. I've been on quite a few dates lately too, but I have to admit it's my fault nothing has come of them. I'm not sure if I'd want to get some nice young lady involved in my dangerous lifestyle. I'm just counting on James employing someone who I'd be attracted to, then at least we'd both be on the same page! Aside from human interactions, I enjoying taking my dog, Benji, for long walks.

Warren: Do you have any personal goals for the future? Any romance on the cards?
Ah, see my previous answer on the romance front. Tell James to employ more single women and I'll take it from there.

Personal goals, I'd like to keep learning more on the job and climb the ranks. I want to help James as well as do him proud.

Warren: Do you intend to visit your family in Italy in future? How do you think it would go?
I've been trying to talk them into coming over here for Christmas, but so far it looks unlikely. If not, I intend on visiting early next year. I do miss Mum, Dad and my younger siblings, so it would be good to catch up with them. I expect Mum will spoil me rotten and be as sweet as she always is. Dad will probably be nice to me but only so he can proceed to nag me about staying in Italy. I expect I'll be biting my tongue quite a bit. i don't want to fight again, but Dad can be persistent.

Pyroclast

Realistic or Modern Empire City: Weekly Character AMA

Clever thoughts mean nothing unless acted upon.

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Add alcohol and stir!

Vibing

Clever thoughts mean nothing unless acted upon.

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bloodless

Give up on your dreams and die.

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Add alcohol and stir!

Straight Judgin'

Give up on your dreams and die.

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I am a threat, I alter outcomes

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Straight Judgin'

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The All-Powerful Enzyme!

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