Realistic or Modern The City: 1990s Gangs - IC Thread

[neverbackdown]

Cruisin' Around London
~ London ~

Natalie Smyth
​

Natalie listened as Archer and Lucius spoke about the newest turn of events.She was half-listening as she stared out the car window, the buildings and other cars blurring as they passed. The first thing Natalie had done after the meeting was go to Lucius, Archer and Albie to inform them of the war that they were all being sent to and she wasn't the least bit surprised that the conversation was still ongoing. It was a lot to digest and even she felt she hadn't fully wrapped her head around it all.

Movement from the corner of her eye caught her attention and almost on instinct Natalie reached out her hand, allowing Lucius to take her hand in his. She turned her head to look at him a small smile playing on her lips as her eyes caught his. Her expression mirrored his, stoic and unreadable but she could sense the anxiety within him, could read the telling signs that only those nearest to a person could possible know and she knew that he could read her too. It still shocked her sometimes how easy everything was with Lucius and how easily it came to them both. It took her awhile to warm up to Albie initially all those years ago but maybe it is because of him and the position he got Nat to in her life that allowed her to be a bit more open with Lucius but regardless of the how's and why's she felt safe with him, a safeness she had rarely felt before.

Natalie bit her lip as the attention was then brought onto her. She stayed silent for a moment as she collected her thoughts and tried to figure out how she did actually feel about it all. "Umm" Natalie shrugged slightly "Look I honestly don't know, they seemed alright and it felt legit. They all have stuff to gain by actually winning this, they get their lives and identities back it's a pretty big reward" a thoughtful tone could be heard in voice as she spoke "but then again you can't really trust anyone" she leaned back into the seat as she spoke the last part, her voice was calm as though stating just a natural fact but it was more than that. Trust had to be earned for Natalie after all she had found out the hard way that not everyone could be trusted, not even those that are meant to care for and love you.

As Natalie tried to break herself away from forgotten thoughts, Archer's voice broke through and Natalie couldn't help the small amused laugh that fell from her lips. She turned to look at the boys in the backseat, amusement obvious on her expression before she turned back towards Lucius, a compassionate look now drawn on her features. Using her free hand she patted Lucius' arm as she spoke with the most motherly voice she could muster. "Its ok love, change is hard but we're here for you"

Nat gave Lucius' hand a little squeeze and winked at him before sitting back in her seat comfortably and amused. "But I think they need us to take down the Carters and we may need them too so I think for now we do what Alex says and try get act nice" she said, she quickly looked around to see everyone's reaction before her attention landed on Albie "what about you Albz your staying awfully quiet"


Int;
Lucius & Archer - Bellz
Albie - Melanin-Gxdess

 

[Misty Gray]

Carter Technologies
~ City of London, London ~

Xavier Carter​

When everything was running smoothly, Xavier found his day went by slowly. It wasn't that he wanted anything to break as that would mean he'd have to explain why to his father, but still, there were times when he craved a challenge and more excitement to what he was faced with at work. He'd already written up proposals for new software and technology to be developed by Carter Technologies, but the response he got was that it wasn't a priority at present. Clearly his father and his advisors had more lucrative matters at hand. That, and matters pertaining to the other side of the family business that Ezekiel very openly kept Xavier away from. Much to his frustration.

Overhearing his team discussing a technical issue in the Administration Office, Xavier very nearly spoke up to say he'd go down and deal with the problem. However, he stopped short of doing so. He'd already had to lay off two members of his team when Ezekiel had decided IT was overstaffed. The last thing Xavier wanted to do was deprive his remaining employees of reasons to keep their job. Leaving his trusted team to deal with the service issue, Xavier remained in his office brainstorming more ways to sell his product ideas to his father. He had very little faith Ezekiel would listen either way, but he needed to try. Otherwise, he knew he would start to pay more consideration to the comments Trevor had recently made about him being able to reach his full potential working elsewhere. Perhaps another company would appreciate him more than his own family's did.

Xavier looked away from his computer monitors and spun his desk chair slightly as Reign entered his office. He returned her smile but allowed it to drop as she pointed out how bored he looked. Looking to his watch, he nodded his head. "Yeah, I reckon now's a good time to head out. Not like the boss will notice either way," he remarked about their father. Despite his words, he didn't make a move to actually get up and leave. Reign's body language soon made it clear he had to follow her instructions and walk with her. He turned back to the screens and set about shutting down his computers. After grabbing his personal belongings, he headed out of his office with her, locking his door behind him.

When they were outside, Xavier had to stop walking when his sister did. Her face was as stoic as it often was, so he couldn't quite read if she wanted a personal chat or was going to berate him for something he wasn't yet aware he'd done wrong. When she said she wanted him to accompany her on an assignment, his mind instantly pictured them attending a meeting and his IT expertise someone factoring into it. Why else would his sister or father feel the need to call on him? When she pointed out how he looked like he wanted to do more and conveyed that she agreed he should, he nodded his head. "I always want more. But we both know that's never going to happen," he pointed out. He wasn't sure if her harsh tone was her blaming him. "Reign, listen. I can ask for more until I'm blue in the face, but you know it never happens. That's not my fault--" he began, but fell silent as she continued speaking.

"I always behave," he assured her, managing a playful smirk as he spoke. She mentioned not wanting their mother jumping down her throat and that she could deal with their father. The way she was talking made him think she was asking him to join her on other kinds of business matters - the kind he wasn't normally invited along to. "Yeah. Yeah, I get you," he quickly assured her.

"Uncle Elijah? Of course I can handle that," he casually remarked. The way she made him confirm he could handle it made it clear this wasn't simply a casual family visit. He thought for a moment before quickly nodding his head. "I can handle it. I've been handling shit since I was a kid. This is nothing!" He then crossed his arms, mirroring his sister. "What's this unpleasant visit to Elijah about, then?" he asked, wanting to know what exactly they were going to be doing.

Bellz (Reign)

 

[neverbackdown]

The Coffee Mug
~Bethnal Green, London~

Ryan Browne
​

Waking up to a random blonde girl in his bed was not how Ryan expected to start his day but it definitely wasn't a bad way. He lay there quietly trying to remember the night before and most importantly the girls name but seemed to draw a blank on both counts. He found his memory slipped away just after they entered the club and Ryan really had to consider what his friend Macker has given him and if he really should do anything that her dealer friend offers him, after all this wasn't the first time Ryan lost his mind after dipping into Mackers little bag of fun or so he calls it.

When he felt the girl stirring Ryan pretended to be asleep praying to some higher power that the girl would just sneak out and leave but after 10 minutes of lying perfectly still and focusing on his breathing, Ryan knew this was going to be a lot more difficult than he desired. Stretching with his hands over his head, Ryan let out a small noise somewhere between a yawn and a groan before opening his eyes and propping himself up a bit more on the bed "Morning Sweetheart" a smirk played on her lips as he looked over at the blonde but what he didn't expect was this girl to cuddle into him and look up at him with big doe eyes and he could only think one thing... Oh god what have i done...

After about 20 minutes of lying in bed playing snake on his phone and blocking out the girl chatting beside him, Ryan finally sat up and turned his full attention on her. "Listen love, this has been lovely but I have to get to work, I have your number from last night and how about I give you a call during the week" He was sure she knew that he was never going to call her but before she could make any protests, Ryan leaned over and kissed her. He got out of bed and moved towards his bathroom quickly "safe home Love" he said before closing the bathroom door behind him and hoping into the shower.

He took a long shower, firstly because it felt great after a night of drinking and secondly because he wanted to give it enough time for her to be gone, never to be seen again. Thankfully he found the apartment empty and sighed in relief as he lay back on his bed to relax in peace. Once feeling relaxed, Ryan got up and got changed into some casual gear to go get some coffee from a cafe down the road.

Walking around stuck in his own thoughts, Ryan didn't pay attention to the people he was walking past, it was as though he had blinders on and was headed on a mission, walking with a purpose he didn't actually have. He was only broken from his thoughts when a woman hit him with tea. Thankfully the tea seemed to only land on his checkered over-shirt meaning the hot liquid couldn't actually burn him. Raising his eyebrow, Ryan turned to the woman in question as he tried to figure out quickly who she was and what he had done to her in the past.. have I slept with her? did I promise to call her back and never did? have i slept with her sister/mother/daughter? ...

As his eyes fell on the gorgeous brunette in front of him, Ryan's quizzical look fell of his expression and instead his features held a soft expression, all the while still trying to place her and why she was so familiar and that's when it hit him, she had seen this girl at the bar a few weeks ago "Hey, hey love it's okay, it's only tea" a soothing tone fell on his voice before a look of amusement crept its way back onto his features and his his signature cheeky smirk played on his lips "but you know if you wanted my attention you could've just said hello"

Int:
Maeve - BasDorcha

 

[Pyroclast]

Warehouse 0517 (Training Centre)
~ Lower Clapton, London ~

Billy King and Raphael Delon​

Even after being back in London for a couple of weeks, Billy still wasn’t used to it. Sometimes when walking down the street or shopping at his old local supermarket it felt like he had been transported back in time, as if nothing had changed. Interpol had even managed to get him and his family their old houses back. It was all weirdly familiar, and yet not the same at all. 12 years ago he had been about to start the process of constructing the house he had designed for himself and Erik, where they would raise Charlie together. If nothing had gone wrong, they would probably be living in that house now. Things like that kept jumping out at him – he’d be walking near the Mercury Nightclub, which Billy had redesigned and had been overseeing the reconstruction of before he was forced to abandon it, and he would wonder if it had been a success. Or he would go to his brothers’ houses and wonder who was living in Harper’s house now. He had been busy refurnishing his own house to accommodate his son, and in the process had bought himself a new bed. It was too weird to sleep in the old bed with Hendrik, when the last time he had slept in it, it was Erik who lay next to him.

But life was different now. He had had 12 years to accept that, and while it was jarring being back somewhere that reminded him of everything he had lost, it was also joyful in some ways. Getting to meet his nephews and nieces and being back with his family, albeit without his sister, filled him with an excitement and happiness that still hadn’t gone away. He also adored seeing his son bond with the family he had always dreamed of and take in the city. He knew Utrecht was still home to him, but Charlie had always felt a connection to London and had been wanting to go there his whole life, and so far, he seemed to love it.

By now, Billy had also introduced Hendrik to everybody and was amazed at how well his partner was adapting to their new life in London. It was a lot of change for anyone, but especially for Charlie and Hendrik, who were basically leaving behind everything and everyone they had ever known. Billy was proud of both for making such an effort to settle in. It amazed him that Hendrik had already picked up work at his brother’s restaurant – and even more so that he had put himself forward as a personal trainer for the family to help prepare them for the fight with the Carters. Of course, physical strength and agility wasn’t exactly a necessity in the kind of war they were used to, but it didn’t hurt to have the advantage. Besides, training with Hendrik was one of his favourite things to do.

Except that he wasn’t the only person Hendrik would be training this time. Bruce and Darcey’s friend, Raphael, was going to be there, and Erik…Billy would be lying if he said he hadn’t been worrying about training with him. He was trying to deny his attraction to him, his curiosity about him and the feelings that had been resurfacing ever since he had bumped into him in the corridor at the safe house. Even through all the readjusting, the organising and unpacking and socialising and shopping and everything else he had had keeping him busy since the move back to London, Billy’s brain somehow always managed to find time to daydream about Erik. It was just out of his control.

When he arrived at the warehouse where the training session was taking place, he was relieved to find himself the first to arrive. The thought of Hendrik and Erik alone together was too much to bear, so he had made an extra effort to get there early. Maybe Erik would make a special effort to be late for the same reason. Pushing his concerns aside, Billy focused on Hendrik and made a beeline for him, a broad smile on his face. As soon as he reached him, the man drew him in for a kiss. He had that post-workout glow, a slight sheen on his bare skin and, of course, that musty scent that drove Billy crazy.

Hendrik was in a playful mood and teased him about keeping it a secret that Billy would be his favourite student in the session. “Aw, no special treatment, then?” Billy pouted. “That’s a shame, that is. See, I think I pulled a muscle building our new bed this morning, and it’s feelin’ a bit tight. I was wonderin’ if you wouldn’t mind havin’ a feel before we got started...” He stepped forward and took Hendrik’s hand before placing it on his ass. “It’s this one right here.” And he shot him a playful grin before drawing their bodies together and kissing him again. He was aware that they weren’t alone, but the warehouse was mostly empty and he felt confident at defending them if anyone had a problem.

“Uh…hi,” a voice echoed from behind them, and Billy immediately let Hendrik go, stepping back and resting his hands on his hips. It was Raphael, the young man who had been a friend to Bruce and Darcey during their time in France. He seemed easy to get on with, and even though Billy had been mostly spending time with his immediate family while they resettled, he had managed to spend some time with him and so far he liked him well enough.

“Hey, Raphael,” Billy greeted him with a friendly smile. Still no Erik. Maybe he wasn’t going to come after all? He looked fit enough already, Billy thought. Because part of him was looking forward to seeing him work out, the rest of him was practically praying that he didn’t show up. It would be so much easier if he didn’t. “You good, mate?” he asked, with a welcoming clap on the shoulder.

“Yes, all good,” he said. “Are you both good?” Raphael showed a calm demeanour and managed to hide his thoughts with a friendly smile. On the inside, he was processing seeing the two men before him in an embrace, but he was trying not to give it any thought – he knew they were both gay and in a relationship and of course it didn’t disturb him in the slightest, it was just that when he saw them together he couldn’t help but wish he had what they had. Since his conversation with Darcey about how she and Bruce fell in love, he had been thinking more about how he wanted to find someone for himself. Billy and Hendrik were a handsome couple who seemed to have it all, and Raphael wished he could ask them to hook him up with someone else in the community – but he didn’t reckon that either of them were in contact with anyone, since they had only just moved there. “It’s nice to see you,” he said, and as he began to stretch he set his eyes on Hendrik. “What are we working on today?”

Interactions
Misty Gray Hendrik
Melanin-Gxdess Erik

 

[BasDorcha]

The Coffee Mug

~Bethnal Green, London~

​

Maeve Brooks

As her face finally looked up, she realized that the face she found was familiar - one she had seen at the club when she was out with Bohemia a few weeks before which in turn made her cheeks even redder. The handsomeness she was confronted with knocked the breath out of her chest, silencing her words as he turned a smirk on and so easily disregarded that she had just knocked a cup of hot tea into him. At first she couldn't respond, the feeling in her body something she hadn't experienced in over twelve years. Nervousness talking to man, shyness and feeling like a school girl. She gulped and withdrew her hands from trying to correct the mess, the previous dark thoughts of her mind flying away and any new thoughts blocked out by the giddy feeling of having attention turned on her for what felt like the first time in forever.

If she thought about it, if she let herself think it through, she would find that she couldn't put a finger on the last time her husband made her feel anything like this. Things had been so strained and distant between them for so long, it was like strangers. When was the last time he had made her heart pitter patter with excitement, had looked at her the way this stranger was looking at her as if in that moment she was the only person around? Too long, way too long. Still, Maeve wasn't thinking and these thoughts couldn’t make it past the barrier that was currently surrounding her body in every inch, his put on warmth flooding her logical mind. Sitting back in her seat, hands clasping in her lap as she now was unsure what to do with them, she struggled to come up with something to say.

Taking a deep breath she looked away and steadied herself. For years she had worked in the bar scene, had handled men of every type, had put on fronts to be the perfect woman even when she never felt it deep inside. Why was it so hard to recall it now? Was it not like riding a bike where she could recall it and use it as needed. Placing a smile on her face, she looked back up, the long unused mask sliding into place. Hidden behind it was the nerves equal to a teenage girl, the shyness, the embarrassment at being the center of someone's attention after feeling alone for so long but what would she say? What could she say?

"I'm sorry, I really didn't mean to send that flying at you, I was lost in my own world…" Her eyes found his as she found her courage to at least pretend not to be a flustered idiot. "The least I can do is buy you a drink to apologize. Would you like to join me? I owe you for the shirt at least." Unable to contain the blush that hit her cheeks, she pointed to the empty chair she had removed her feet from, the buzz in her head feeling heightened as she waved down a waiter to get his order. It hadn't crossed her mind that it might be seen as improper or out of line, Maeve never having been one to do such things, yet she felt different now, what did this mean? For a brief moment she reminded herself of her life waiting for her, of the cold bed, the strained home, the arguments and the distance, before her mind shoved it away and encouraged her to enjoy the moment. After all, I'm not doing anything wrong, I'm just apologizing…

neverbackdown - Handsome Stranger

 

[Misty Gray]

Warehouse 0517 (Training Centre)
~ Lower Clapton, London ~

Logan Thomson​

Following the meeting almost two weeks ago, word had predictably got back to Spencer about the tensions that had arisen. In particular, the words exchanged between Logan and Jeremy. Not one to hold back on matters, Spencer had brought it up to the Scotsman. Whilst he understood Logan's resistance to being told what to do and apparently being talked down to, he made clear that there wasn't room for squabbling and in-fighting when they were all meant to be on the same side. Although Spencer had be interested enough to bring it up, more than anything he made it clear that he didn't have the time to be playing some kind of mediator, so he told Logan to deal with it himself. From that Logan, was easily able to decipher that Spencer had a lot of his plate and didn't need what was in comparison trivial matters to be distracting him. So it was out of respect for Spencer and Shona that Logan assured them he'd be on his best behaviour... As long as he didn't feel like he was being patronised again, or at all baited. He was prepared to make the effort.

The last week or so had been spent helping Spencer and Shona move back into their family home. Until he was able to find his feet and get his own place, he'd been invited to stay in their spare room at their house. Logan had lived with them in the past, so he didn't hesitate to accept. It also helped to have them around to get him settle into London having lived in quiet Fort William for all of his life. He knew getting used to living in a city was tricky enough, never mind joining the mission against the Carters. Aside from business, he'd appreciated spending some time with Eddie and Lottie who were also new to London. He'd particularly enjoyed their morning in the park, getting to see the kids have fun but also noticing that even though the man now had a lot more weighing on his shoulders, there was a light in Spencer's eyes that he hadn't noticed before - like a missing piece of him had been found.

Logan made it to the warehouse on time, putting in the effort to cause minimal waves so early on. He was directed to the training room and when he stepped inside he couldn't help but looked around at all of the equipment. The tactical attire that was set out drilled home the reality of the situation, if there had been any doubts left in him. His eyes then focused on the firearms and explosives, causing him to raise a curious, almost excited, eyebrow. Along with the other equipment, he couldn't believe the amount of resources they would have available to them. Was this really the kind of business Spencer had been involved in before he met him?

Logan allowed himself to tear his focus from the equipment and focused on the other man in the room. He knew Thomas from the previous meeting, so didn't need to introduce himself again. When the other man pointed out there was enough to start a war and made a remark about invading another country, Logan couldn't help but laugh along. "Well, we are in England now. They've got form when it comes to invading other countries," he joked, his thick Scottish accent a reminder of his own nationality. He knew Thomas wasn't from England either, so wouldn't take some kind of offence. Of course, he had no problem with the English, not given how close he was to Spencer and Shona by now. "So, who else are we expecting?" he asked. "If the other week is anything to go by, Leo's probably being invited along too. Given our apparent major rookie status," he drily joked.

"How about you? I'm not the best at reading people, but you come across as a guy who isn't fazed by all this," he said, pointing to the guns. "Am I right?"

BasDorcha (Jeremy) Melanin-Gxdess (Leo) Bellz (Thomas)

 

[Bellz]

Carter Technologies ​

~ City of London, London ~​

Reign Carter ​

Despite the seriousness she had displayed before and the stoic expression she wore, it broke the minute Xavier said that he'd been handling shit since he was a kid, even mirroring her with his arms crossing as he said this was nothing. "That's exactly what I wanted to hear." Reign said, her voice beaming with sisterly pride as she nodded her head once in encouragement at his enthusiasm. Her expression fell back to its stoic statue-like state however when he asked about the job. It wasn't Xavier's fault that their Uncle brought out the worst in Reign, nor was it his fault that his Uncle wasn't doing his job. But in order to hide the irritation, anger, and disgust from her features...it was best to keep her face stoic. Emotion was a weakness, especially for a woman in this business. Any emotion would be taken that way, by anyone.

"Let's head to the car. It's in the lot. I didn't have the valet pull it around like usual." Reign said, nodding her head toward the direction of the parking lot before allowing her brother to step forward first. Looking around them for only a moment, she stepped in line with him as they walked, "Elijah is...loose with who he employs to carry out certain jobs we ask of him. A job we had carried out recently was mishandled and now we have the wrong kind of company on our backs if you understand what I'm saying." Reign said, her chin high as she nodded to a police car that just so happened to be down the street and stopped at a red light.

"We are to speak with Elijah about the mistakes, to tell him to keep his employees under control and get assurance that this won't happen again." They rounded the sidewalk corner into the lot where her car was sitting in the first-row line of cars. Her car, one of her most prized possessions, her black 1995 Porsche 911 sat like a sparkling diamond in the lot. A rare smile formed on her face. It was a small car but she rarely drove anyone around anyway but herself and when she did, the passenger seat was roomy enough.

Reign moved to unlock the doors, and once inside, the interior was just as shiny and clean as the outside. She took care of all the things she had and paid attention to every detail, not a hair out of place. Not a scratch. "Sorry, it's a bit small in this car." Reign said lightly, looking over to her brother with a smirk. Starting up the engine, the car hummed to life with a satisfying roar that wasn't overpowering. "Now I know Roman will be with our Uncle...and I am aware of...the closeness you have with our brother. Not to say that I don't love all of you. But I just know that you both are closer than I am. Whatever is said in there, is strictly business Xavier. You must know that. And if you want to be a part of this business, you have to know that. Now this is your last chance," Reign held her two hands on the wheel, "I won't be upset if you choose not to go. Are you still up for this?"
with: Xavier Misty Gray

 

[Misty Gray]

The Brooks' House
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

Trevor Stewart​

Trevor studied Kathleen as she took some time to process that she was seeing him. Although she seemed shocked, he didn't detect any anger from her. Whilst he'd long since stopped taking the blame for everyone's problems, it had become something of the norm to expect reunited family members and former lovers to react negatively towards him.

He nodded his head when she finally said his name. When she said she was there to see May, he briefly looked over his shoulder to the house before setting his eyes back on Kathleen. "She's not home. One of the kids is sick so I offered to look after her today so May could still go earn a livin'," he explained. He raised a puzzled eyebrow when Kathleen questioned how he knew May and how he'd found her. Whilst he knew his daughter didn't mention Kathleen or visiting her, he was surprised that the woman in front of him knew so little. The woman told him she was good but then asked how he knew about May.

Conscious of still being at the end of the Brooks' garden, Trevor ushered Kathleen to one side so they were obscured by the hedges should Christian look out of the house windows. He didn't want to give the detective more reason to stick his nose in where he wasn't wanted. "Maeve and I have been in each others' lives for the last twelve years," Trevor told Kathleen. "She'd moved to London looking for me and not long after I moved back here, she found me," he explained. "I'm surprised that in all of this time you never found this out."

As he thought about it, he started to wonder if May even knew her mother was coming to visit her. "What are you doing here? In all of those twelve year's I've not seen or heard about you," he honestly told her. "Does May even know you're here at all?"

BasDorcha (Kathleen)

 

[Misty Gray]

Carter Technologies
~ City of London, London ~

Xavier Carter​

When his sister told him to head to her car, Xavier nodded his head. Although his own car was also parked up in the lot, he figured there was no point saying so given he was to accompany her to see their uncle. "You're walking all the way to the car? Using your own legs? Did you upset the valet?" he teased his sister.

Xavier switched back to serious mode when Reign explained that one of Elijah's employees had mishandled a recent job. He didn't need to ask for clarification to know the kind of job it must have been. That was confirmed when she made it clear to him the mistake had attracted unwanted attention from the law. He nodded his head in understanding. "Well, we all know some of Elijah's employees aren't all there in the head - and that's coming from someone whose brain has been poked around with," he drily remarked.

When she said they were going to speak with Elijah to get him to keep his employees in line, he stayed silent for a moment before finally speaking up. "I expect that won't go down well," he told her. "But he's going to have to tighten up and do enough to assure us he'll get it sorted. Dad doesn't need that mess landing on his doorstep and we all know he won't put up with it for long."

When they reached the Porsche and Reign apologised for the size, he couldn't help but laugh. "I think I'll allow it. I just hope none of my friends see me. I've got a reputation to uphold," he said, a bright smile on his face. He knew how fortunate they were to have the wealth and opportunities they had, so he wasn't about to beat down the size of what was an objectively expensive car.

When they were in the car, Reign started the engine but then spoke up about their brother and how close Xavier was with him. The fact he lived with Roman only strengthened that sentiment. "Nah, I get it. This is work. Business. I'm sure Roman will understand too." When she said this was his last chance to back out, he chewed his bottom lip before quickly shaking his head. "I'm still up for it. Start driving, will you?" he firmly told her. He was fed up of being overlooked and protected more than his siblings. He wanted a chance to prove he was just as capable as Reign and Roman were when it came to the business.

Bellz (Reign) Melanin-Gxdess (Elijah) Pyroclast (Roman)

 

[Misty Gray]

Sullivan Residence
~ Dublin, Ireland ~

Conor Sullivan​

Conor had been shocked to learn from Syd and Olivia that Lucy had passed away in 1992. Whilst his initial thoughts were of how he felt he'd been robbed of those final few years with his older sister, that anger was soon overtaken by the feeling of grief and loss. The news brought a change to his plans to return to Dublin after the various meetings with Interpol at the safehouse were done with. Instead, he detoured to the Lake District. He'd decided to relieve Syd and Olivia of the burden of breaking the news of Lucy's death to Sinead, instead being the one to tell his sister. Sinead was, as expected, distraught by the news and took some calming down from those around her. What he'd planned on being a couple of nights staying in the Lakes turned into a week as his visit hadn't been just to break the sad news, but also to catch up with his sister, Peter, and the rest of the Callahans there.

Once content he was leaving the Callahans in a good place, Conor finally returned to Dublin a few days ago. Conor's wish for a quieter life away from the mob also meant he didn't want any of his remaining large properties back whether it was an option or not. Instead, a more modest sized family home was arranged for them in Dublin. Somewhere comfortable and secure, but free of the attention and stress his former flashy home would attract.

Although Conor had opted out of the contract with Interpol, he had agreed to help provide them with knowledge and intelligence he would have access to as the former leader of the Irish Mob. Today, he wasn't exactly fishing for information, but he had taken Lauren with him as he checked in on some old friends and allies who he'd been able to make contact with around the city. By the time he was ready to call it a day, it was close to when he was due at Natasha's place.

Conor wasn't oblivious to the fact Leo was in London whilst his wife and kids remained in Dublin. It was only a matter of time before he intended to question the married couple deeper, but for the moment, he was more interested in meeting his four grandchildren and seeing Natasha again. Having already been spending time with Lauren during the day, he decided to bring his granddaughter with him so they could continue catching up. "What are you studying, again?" he asked Lauren as he drove the car, nearing their destination. "It's not one of those useless courses, I hope. I've been around long enough to know what the student nightlife is like. All parties and pissin' about, right?" he teased. "Bunch of freeloaders," he playfully added. "And when you leave the cushy life of being a student, what are you looking to do for a job?" he asked. As he asked his question, he parked up in the driveway, stopped the engine and got out of the car.

Regardless of Lauren's answer, Conor didn't get chance to dwell on her response as he'd already pressed the doorbell. He could hear voices from inside the house, which he deduced were exchanges between Natasha and one or more of the kids. When the door was pulled open, Conor looked ahead to see Natasha. With a large smile on his face, he moved to give his daughter-in-law a warm hug. He released her and paused whilst she greeted Lauren. "It's great to see ya, Nat! How the hell are ya? Ali and the girls are still in Gran Canaria looking after Allen, but they'll be back here soon enough," he explained. "I'm looking forward to meeting my grandkids. All four of them!" he said, chuckling at the fact he had four grandchildren he had yet to meet.

neverbackdown (Lauren) Bellz (Natasha)

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Warehouse 0517 (Training Centre)
~ Lower Clapton, London ~
Erik Snowden​

Seeing Billy after such a long time had felt so surreal. Like he was dreaming and at any moment he would wake up. The illusion would be over and he'd have a little cry before returning to normal. It'd happened before so he wouldn't be too surprised if that was the case once more. However, when he woke up the next morning and saw Billy again in the hall he knew he wasn't dreaming. Billy was here. Their son was here. It was easy to think that they'd be able to pick up where they left off and be together - raise their kid together like nothing had happened but that wasn't feasible. The moment Billy's boyfriend, Kendrick, wrapped his arm around his shoulder and kissed the top of his head, that fantasy was also shattered. The two of them had accepted things and, for the most part, moved on. Billy had Kendrick and Erik had William. Erik would have to be an idiot to think that things would be so easy. It was hard to explain, even, the feeling he had when he saw the two of them together. Technically, the two of them hadn't broken up. They'd never said the words and had never intended to. They were separated and that wasn't their fault. So seeing him with someone else when such words weren't uttered he felt a bit jealous. Kendrick had gotten time with the son he and Billy were supposed to raise together.

Seeing Charlie and hugging him for the first time in years had Erik's heart swelling. He always wondered what the kid would look like and how big he would get over time. He wondered if he was riding a bike yet or if he knew how to do a backflip. Now he was able to ask all of these questions and was only disappointed when Charlie told him he didn't know how to do a backflip. "Don't worry," Erik told him, "We've got plenty of time and I can teach you." Over the next two weeks, Erik tried to spend as much time as possible with Charlie. He wanted to know everything about him and learn all of his likes and dislikes. Whatever time Billy allowed him to have he took. For a bit, he was shirking his responsibilities as far as Interpol was concerned, but that didn't matter. His son took precedence and he'd just make Klaus feel bad if he yelled at him for it.

Things still felt a bit awkward, however, when it came to Hendrick. Erik was jealous - what can he say? The man was handsome, well-fit, and had great hair, "But not better than mine," he'd told Rory during an outing. He got to be there for some important moments with Charlie and be a part of his life for a while. Then there was the fact that he was with the love of his life and not himself... But, Erik knew better. He wasn't going to be a dick to him or standoffish; after all, he had a boyfriend whom he loved immensely back in Germany. It would be heartless of him to go pining after his ex while his current was in another country. Still, Erik couldn't help but struggle with pushing that jealousy to the side. That morning he'd been helping Rory settle into her apartment as they shared their struggles with one another; Rory with Wesley and Erik with Hendrick. "I mean, the old me would've said fuck that guy, break up with Will, and get your boyfriend back but that's not me anymore," she grunted as they set down the couch where she wanted it. "BUT the new and improved Rory says to let it go. If the universe wants you two together then it'll happen. But you can't go bein' a dick to 'im just because he's got somethin' you want. He didn't choose this either, you know." Erik just stared in disbelief and annoyance. She wasn't supposed to say that. Rory just laughed and shook her head. "You can do this, Erik. One of us has to make it on the other side and yours is easier than mine so." Erik nodded in understanding at her advice before pausing. "Did your accent get thicker?"

Erik had been running a little behind time and was partially okay with it. The less time he spent around Billy and Hendrick as a couple the better. Though there would be another person joining them for this training, Erik felt it was still going to be super awkward. He was trying not to think about how intense it was going to be and instead shifted his thoughts elsewhere; though where they decided to go wasn't much help... What were the odds, he wondered, that he would get to see Billy in action again? Before they were separated it was actually one of Erik's favorite things to watch. Something about how soft, innocent-looking Billy flipped a switch when it came to fighting and defending himself got him going every. Time. And this training, he thought, was going to be no different. On the ride over he had to keep himself in check and keep reminding himself he had a boyfriend back home. Lusting after your ex was a no-no. When he finally got there he was relieved that everyone else was there too. Nothing would be worse than being in a room alone with either Billy or Hendrick. Erik would've died.

"Sorry I'm late," he started, eyes immediately connecting with Billy's. "Rory needed some stuff moved and claims she wasn't strong enough but I think she was lying. There's a lot of strength in that tiny body," he joked, trying to make the situation a bit less awkward. He finally tore himself from Billy and turned to greet Hendrick before introducing himself to Raphael. "I don't think we've met? At least, properly. I'm Erik Snowden." Once intros were out of the way, Erik clapped his hands together. "We warming up first or just getting into it?"

Warehouse 0517
~ Lower Clapton, London ~
Leo Sullivan​

Being away from his family for as long as he had been was hard on Leo. He barely slept at night, tossing and turning and just feeling overall uncomfortable. It never felt right to him when he was away from his wife and kids. And for the past two weeks, he'd gone back and forth with Natasha about moving the family to London. She stated she didn't want to expose their children to what was coming ahead and Leo understood. However, he still believed that he could keep them safe. They'd continue to live in a country estate away from the city and away from any danger. No one would ever figure out where they lived and he would always keep guards around the house. But even his promise of security wasn't enough to get her to change her mind. As much as it frustrated and hurt him he had to go along with it; she was their mother. Leo would never go over her head or force her to do something she didn't want to, no matter how crazy she drove him. She was his wife, best friend, and mother of his children and he would never purposely do anything to hurt her. Even if that meant suffering from fatigue and the costly international calls he was about to get at the end of the month...

When he'd heard about Lucy, Leo's first instinct was to be there for Thomas in any way he could. Knowing that Lucy never got to physically see the man Thomas had grown into or even met her grandchildren was enough to get him on a plane to see his own mother. Ali hadn't been able to join the rest of the family in meeting up as she had to take care of Allen. Sure, she could've gotten someone to take care of him or even asked Sydney but her daughter had enough on her plate and she didn't trust just anyone. Two days later and Leo was on her doorstep. The moment she opened the door and saw her son Ali embraced him as closely and tightly as she possibly could. Twelve years was an incredibly long time to not see your son or hear his voice. Even though she tried, she could never quite picture what he'd look like over the years. Leo brought a photo album with him to give her just what she'd been looking for, too. Tears fell down the plastic film of each page and Ali looked on with nothing but adoration in her eyes. "Seana looks just like your grandmother," she said. "And this one," she stated, pointing to Wayne, "Looks like you when you were younger." Leo chuckled and rubbed his ear. "Yeah, can you also tell which one is the troublemaker too?" Ali nodded her head and tapped Wayne's picture, Leo nodding in agreeance.

A few moments later the door opened and in walked his sisters. Rhiannon hadn't immediately gone to London either as she wanted to be there for her mother. Sydney had just started school and was joining Rhiannon later that weekend. However, it didn't matter just then. The one person the two of them were interested in seeing - dying to see was standing in their living room. Leo was shocked to see the women his little sisters had become - especially Rhiannon. He'd always pictured her... Different. "Uptight. Snooty. A mean girl, really." To which Rhiannon hit him. "She was the mean girl. But only to the bullies," Sydney defended. The four of them stayed up for hours talking and updating each other and the happenings of life that when they were finished the sun had gone down and was nearly about to start rising again. "When do you return to London?" Leo told him he was leaving the day after tomorrow, Rhiannon making plans to do the same.

Today was meant to be a training day and Leo wanted to be anywhere else. In Dublin with his family. On his beach with his mother. Hell, even a pub would be better than where he stood just then. After checking in for the fifth time that morning, he made his way inside and let out a low whistle. "So this is where all my good tax money is going, huh," he joked, standing nearby his cousin and Logan. Logan had made a good impression on Leo during the meeting a couple of weeks ago. The man wasn't about to let Jeremy talk down to him and Leo appreciated that in a person. The man had a backbone which was going to be important in all this mess. Leo turned his attention to Thomas, simply asking, "You good?" He knew that he was more than likely still reeling about his mother's death, but he didn't want to risk saying anything to upset him again. Leo then turned to Logan. "How 'bout you, newbie," he joked, clearly aware that Logan was experienced in this kind of work as well. "Ready for the big, dangerous world?"

 

[BasDorcha]

Brook's Home

London​

​

Kathleen Thatcher

Still frozen to the spot, when Trevor began ushering her out of sight she realized he probably knew that Maeve didn't want to see her and was trying to keep her from being the upsetting factor of the day. She misunderstood entirely the move and a crestfallen look crossed her features as they moved further away from the door and she could no longer see the entrance. Still, she listened as he spoke, eyes now pointed at the ground in silence. It made sense, he must know that Maeve didn't want anything to do with her and now he was acting as a body guard for her, keeping her mother away and out of sight so she couldn't cause problems as Maeve had so bluntly accused her of doing when they had last seen each other in the café. Tears sprang to her eyes as she once again thought about the fact she may never repair things with her daughter. It had been hard enough trying to get back in touch with her son Tom who had distanced himself from her without the reasons that Maeve had.

She had been such a terrible mother back in the day. It pained her heart now, clean nearly seven years now, to think about the person she had been then.

The rain outside was coming down in sheets, making the streets nearly unpassable. Kathleen sat near the living room window, watching it as if waiting for someone to show up at the door like an expected guest. Drugs and alcohol coursed through her system, her vision hazy and her body slow moving. The track marks on her arms were fresh again and nothing around her seemed to phase her. In the background Maeve was caring for Alfie and Thomas, the twins swarming her for whatever dinner she was able to pull together. A sadness blanketed the house, though the two youngest seemed to not notice.

"Mam…" Came Maeve's soft voice through the inpenetrable silence Kathleen had around her. "You should eat something. Here…" Kathleen looked up, a bowl of soup being offered to her. She looked at it blankly, not bothering to reach for it. May stood offering it a few moments more before setting it down on the table before her. "Please, you need to eat." May's big doe eyes probed at her again, asking with all the love a daughter like her could give. Instead, her eyes turned back to the outside, watching again for someone who would not come. Silence fell and the minutes ticked past, Maeve finally deciding to walk away. Just as she reached the door to the room, Kathleen looked back up, an emotionless face turned towards her daughter.

"It's your fault, you know. The reason he left me. We were fine, but you just had to look so damn much like that one that spawned you that he was bound to figure out eventually you weren't his, didn't you? Now he's left, he'll never come back to me. I'll die alone thanks to you. You never should have been born May, you're just a mistake and nothing you can do will fix that." She turned back towards the window, silence falling again only to be broken a few moments later by sniffling and soft sobs as Maeve rushed out of the room and back to the boys in the kitchen.

Kathleen felt terrible. Memories like this drove her to try and make things better for her daughter, to apologize and try to mend any bridges she could. Looking up at Trevor finally, the last few of his words piercing her moment of being so far away. Twelve years? They had known about each other for twelve years? A soft smile formed under the teary eyes as she felt a spot of warm blossom in her heart. So you were not alone… I'm so happy. Wiping away her eyes and nodding as if to confirm that she was alright, never mind that wasn't what he had said, she found his gaze again and took a few more steps backwards, turning to walk back towards where the taxi had let her out, looking back at Trevor with a tug of head as if to ask him to walk with her. Assuming he took the chance, she'd slowly guide them down the sidewalk while still listening to him and considering how to respond.

As he pointed out that he had never seen or heard of her, she couldn't help but acknowledge that was probably true. "No… She doesn't. Recently, my daughter in law brought us together for the first time since Maeve left Dublin, but she didn't take it well… It was quite a scene. Still… I know I wasn't the best mother, but I want to apologize… I want to fix things… And I can't just give up because she's angry." Kathleen wrapped her arms around her waist, sighing as she faced the overwhelming task of finding a way back to her daughter. "Don't suppose you know what that's like, huh?" A forced, small laugh broke through her lips as she looked back up at Trevor, unknowing of his past and how similar it might all sound to him.

"She has every right to hate me, I was terrible to her but I'm better now… I'm not the woman I was when she was a child. I have to show that to her."

Misty Gray - Trevor

 

[Bellz]

Elijah's Office ​

~ Limehouse, London ~​

Reign Carter ​

​

"It almost never does with me and Elijah in the same room." Reign had said on account of Xavier saying he didn't expect it to go down well. "And you're precisely right, Dad doesn't need that mess on his doorstep, he's got bigger things to worry about. Elijah might have the time to put up with this shite, but Dad doesn't."

Reign couldn't help but smile at Xavier's joke, "When did you get so cheeky? Hanging out in I.T. too much I think. Allow it, eh? Well, I sure hope that I don't spoil your reputation in my dainty car." A rare joke shared between her and one of her siblings as she looked at him. That of course had all melted away when she grew serious, speaking of what they were to face when they got to the meeting. While Reign wasn't the one to be phased by tensions with her siblings, she knew the same couldn't be said for the others. However, Xavier had pleasantly surprised her. While she didn't have any doubts that he would be up for the job, she just wasn't sure if he would be up for facing Roman, especially given they lived together.

Offering him one last chance to bail out, Xavier had chewed on his bottom lip for only a moment before shaking his head, stating he was still up for it and demanding she drive. Reign pulled an unamused expression, raising an eyebrow at him. "One and only time I'll let you boss me around, kid. But I understand the frustration. Don't twist my persistent questions on whether you want to do this for me wanting to protect you. I wouldn't have invited you to go with me, risk getting nagged at by our mum or a firm talking to by our father if I was focused on protecting the precious Xavier Carter." Her voice was teasing towards the end as she let a small smirk form on her lips, "You want in the business, this is your start. Do not disappoint me and I'll vouch for you in return." With that, she pulled out of her spot in the lot and headed towards Elijah's office in Limehouse which was in East London near the docks.

The drive wasn't terribly long, Reign wasn't one to fill the car with needly conversation but she would fill Xavier in on what the job had been and what mistakes had been made. With him properly filled in, the car came to a park outside her Uncle's office and she looked tense. "He'll try to be friendly, this isn't a friendly meeting. Business as usual. Just follow my lead, take mental notes..." Reign stepped out of the car, flattening her skirt and dress shirt as she waited for Xavier before locking her car. Looking at him, she noticed that his tie was a bit crooked. "Let me fix this." She didn't take no for an answer, just doing it and fixing his crooked tie before nodding her head in approval. "You look sharp. You'll do great. Let's go."

As they headed inside, Reign was met with the secretary whom she had actually never seen before until today. "Do you have a scheduled appointment?" Reign just gave her a look that made the secretary shrink back in her seat slightly, "We're here to see Elijah Carter, I'm his niece and this is his nephew." The secretary looked a bit lost, "He didn't mention family stopping by-" "He doesn't like me much. Is he in there?" Reign pointed to the office that Elijah was normally in and the secretary stammered, but Reign wasn't listening. "We'll see ourselves in, you just go ahead and cancel the rest of his appointments for today yes? Also, you should go home. You're not needed here now." The secretary continued to stammer and Reign clicked her teeth, "Go on then, on your way. Xavier, please see to it that the lady leaves, lock the door behind her. then join me in the office with our Uncle." Reign looked at her brother, eyeing him closely to make sure he understood his first assignment.

Reign turned on her heels, heading to her Uncle's office and not bothering to knock she just opened the door. "Am I interrupting? Shame. My father wanted to drop by." Her face was dead serious, though one of her brows was raised as if daring Elijah to test her. "Mind if Xavier and I sit and chat? We have a lot to discuss."
with: Xavier Misty Gray ; Elijah Melanin-Gxdess ; Roman Pyroclast

 

[Misty Gray]

The Brooks' House
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

Trevor Stewart​

Although it was clearly an emotional situation for Kathleen, Trevor needed to reserve judgement as it stood. May hadn't mentioned her mother in a long time and certainly gave no indication they were in contact. He wasn't sure he wanted to place himself in the centre of yet more feuds. Whether it was that of May and Christian, or a literal war between his family and the Carters, Trevor was finding himself being placed in new sensitive situations on practically a weekly basis. He watched as she turned to walk back in the direction she'd come in and when she motioned for him to join her, he hesitated for a moment before doing so. After a few paces, he turned to spare a thought for his parked car as they walked passed it.

They walked for a little longer before it became clear to Trevor that Kathleen wasn't actually walking to her own vehicle, so he slowed to a stop as she replied to him, leaning against the high wall as he took in her words. He nodded along as she explained her daughter-in-law had brought her and May together. As Kathleen went on, it was clear by the way she described May's reaction that his daughter hadn't taken her mother's arrival well. "So you want to apologise and fix things? I don't know you all that well, but... Why now? Why do you want to fix things now? If it's only to make yourself feel better, than you're going to have to take more time to consider what's in it for May."

When Kathleen asked if he happened to know what it was like being in her position, Trevor couldn't help but scoff. He stayed silent as a couple of people passed them by, waiting until they were out of earshot before answering her. "Oh yeah, I know what that's like. When we met all those years ago, I lied about a few things, including my full name. I also omitted to tell you I'd walked out on my wife and four kids. I left my family to fuck about with drugs, alcohol, gambling, and the rest..." he trailed off. "I was a terrible husband and father, and my wife died not long after I walked out." Trevor paused for a moment to try see what Kathleen was thinking. "Suffice to say, I returned to London 12 years ago to a family that hated me and would have bumped me off in a heartbeat. What I can tell you is that you need to be patient, honest, and not make this all about you. You've got to prove you've changed whilst not shoving it down May's throat. After I'd made my presence known and told my family I'd changed, I had to prove it. I took a step back, got a job and did everything I could to show I wasn't still a waste of space. It took time, Kathleen. And even now, for at least one of my kids, I'm prepared to accept the fact he might never truly forgive me and let me back into his life. You can't force 'em to change how they feel."

BasDorcha (Kathleen)

 

[Misty Gray]

Warehouse 0517 (Training Centre)
~ Lower Clapton, London ~

Dermot Murphy and Lucas Sullivan​

Lucas couldn't help the boyish smile that crossed his lips when Collin said he hoped they could still play with toy guns. He stopped short of replying to say he'd still play games with him any time. He carried a more serious expression when J.J. told them he was feeling a bit nervous about things. "I know what you mean. Hopefully it won't be as messy as things were back in Dublin when we were kids," he told him.

Dermot nodded in understanding when J.J. said he had fired a real gun before. He then looked to Lucas as he said he hadn't used a real firearm yet. "Alright. We'll start as beginners," he told them. Regardless of their answers, it was how he'd planned on starting anyway. Dermot set about retrieving various firearms from their places on the wall. Grabbing four pistols, he put them down on the long table in front of the three young men. "Glock 17s. Semi-automatic pistols." He then retrieved the next set of weapons and placed them down on the table too. "Rifles... we'll move on those them after." He then pointed to the other weapons on the wall and pointed them out. "Those beautiful shotguns and machine guns will come out to play when you've mastered the ones on the table."

Dermot picked up one of the cartridges from the table and proceeded to load one of the pistols, smiling as it all clicked into place. Before asking the lads to load one of their own, he handed Lucas an unloaded pistol. "Show me how you would hold that if you were going to shoot me in the chest." he asked him. As Lucas went on to grip the gun and point it in Dermot's direction, the older man tilted his head to the side a little. "The fuck are you holding it at that angle for, Tower of Pisa? Hold it straight!" Dermot gruffly commanded Lucas, shaking his head. "Arm out. Forearm in line with the gun. "Use both hands to stay in control," he said, lifting his own gun and demonstrating. "Index finger on the trigger. Grip the handle and frame. That's it!"

Lucas mirrored Dermot's holding of the gun but couldn't help but chuckle. "I've been complimented on my grip before," he remarked.

"The less I hear about that, the better!" Dermot brushed off the joke. "Now, boys. Take this shit seriously," Dermot commanded. "I want you each to take a gun and load it. Make sure you point it away from yourself and each other. I said I'd leave this place as I found it and I ain't cleaning up any bloodstains." Dermot glanced to the cubicles where they would soon put on their ear defenders and begin target practice, but not before he was satisfied they'd all loaded their guns and mastered holding them properly.


Bellz (J.J., Collin)

 

[neverbackdown]

Sullivan Residence
~Dublin, Ireland ~

Lauren Sullivan
​

A wild night had turned into an even wilder morning as Lauren woke in a house that most certainly was not her own. She had no time to deal with her hangover and instead ended up in a race across Dublin as she tried to beat her grandfather to her house. Thankfully luck seemed to be on her side and she managed to slip in her bedroom window and change just before Conor arrived to pick her up.

While she loved spending time with her grandad, Lauren couldn't help but be a little suspicious about their day together, she was sure her mother had complained to Conor about her behaviour by now and she felt herself just waiting for the lecture to come. If necessary she would use the exact same arguments that she had used with her mother i.e. its a different world now, we are not at war and her most used phrase "I'm an adult now". Thankfully it didn't seem like there was an agenda up his sleeve and within half an hour Lauren allowed herself to relax and just be in the moment.

Meeting Conor's old friends and allies was interesting to Lauren, she had always been intrigued by the lifestyle that her family had lived. Gangs and gang wars were literally ingrained in her blood with her mother being a by product of a forbidden love between two war ridden gangs, the Romano's and the Sullivans while it didn't work out between them, Lauren still believed it to be a beautiful story. However it wasn't the love that she yearned for, rather it was the adventure and chaos that seemed to surround their lives, even her mother experienced it growing up. Hearing these stories only led Lauren to further believe that her life was boring and too normal and so with the war far gone and the majority of her family overseas in hiding, Lauren took it upon herself to have her own fun and her own adventures. During the conversations Lauren did manage to pick up on the fact that something seemed to be brewing in London and she figured that was what her uncle Leo was doing over there. She made a mental note to ask him about it all during her next training session with him.

Conor's words broke through her thoughts and brought her back into the car as she turned away from the window to face him, an amused smirk playing on her lips at his words "I'm studying the physical effects of alcohol on the human body, classes are nightly, sometimes during the day, the schedule is a bit erratic yanno" an amused tone could be heard in her voice as she spoke before shaking her head as her grandad looked her direction "Im studying Psychology, It's tough but I enjoy it, my course allows for a year abroad as well so I'm thinking of maybe going to England to do it possibly but I haven't fully decided" She gave a small shrug of her shoulders as she spoke but a soft smile played on her lips.

When Conor asked her what she wanted to do after College, Lauren considered being honest but when an opportunity arises to have some fun she can never pass it down. She stayed silent as they exited the car, a smirk growing on her lips as she looked ahead and in a very serious but thoughtful tone she answered "Maybe a hitman or a Capo, Have to keep the Sullivan name in the game".

Before Conor could question her or Lauren could confess the truth, Natasha opened the door and a warm smile found its way onto Lauren's lips as she looked at her aunt. She greeted her with a hug before following them into the house, quietly allowing them to catch up first.

Int:

Grandad Conor - Misty Gray
Aunt Natasha- Bellz

 

[BasDorcha]

Warehouse 0517

~ Lower Clapton, London ~​

Jeremy Gray

Jeremy's last few weeks had been rough. Not only was he back in London where everything seemed to remind him of Harper, he was also now in charge of training a group of younger men who had little to no indication of trying to sooth the past over. He was more than willing to let things go, after all, once you lost the thing most important to you, nothing else was worth holding on to especially grudges. As he sat in the tactically acquired - or rather squatted - office that he found within the warehouse, his mind raced with how to properly handle things. More often than not, Jeremy often intended to say things in a better way than how they came across. His mind would think something sounded protective, kind, happy, or even unaffected by what was going on around him, yet when he went to speak it his voice naturally carried a tone of gruffness and darkness to it that came across negatively. He sighed and rubbed his hand down his face, sitting back in the chair with an exasperated grunt. This was not going to be easy.

Finally, he stood as the clock struck the hour of his judgement. Today would either find a way to go somewhat smoothly, or Wesley would have his head on a pike. Thinking about it caused him to make a face as if the man could see it, grumbling about how Wes would always be a pain in his arse. Picking up his own tactical gear and setup, he strapped everything into place, deciding a quick look over how their own setups would go might be helpful to them. Plus, it never failed to make an entrance. Picking up the rest of the things he thought he might need and throwing it into a bag, he headed to the room where he was due to meet Leo, Thomas and Logan. Thomas hadn't caused him any worry the last time, but Leo and Logan were going to be a problem - but he prayed for the opposite.

When he entered the door he found that all three of the recruits were already there. Good, he didn't have to wait for anyone. Taking a deep breath, he tried to calm his nerves. How was it that he could do the things he's done in the past, yet one small room with two people he had previously know (albeit in not the best situations) and one stranger made him more nervous than a lone cat in a dog pound.

"Hello and welcome everyone. Thank you for coming today. As you know we will be covering tactical training - better known as getting to know your gear. Thomas, I understand you were previously in the military, I look forward to sharing your knowledge with myself and the others. " It suddenly struck him what day it was, and for a moment Jeremy looked uncomfortable and saddened standing there before them, a hand raising to rub at the back of his head and stopping to squeeze on his neck. "Actually, first, I'd like to say I'm sorry you have to be here on this day. Sorry… For your loss, Thomas, Leo. I know it didn't actually happen today, but it must feel like it. Lucy was a good woman, I got to know her a bit in Germany…" He shuffled in place, before clearing his throat and looking away from them all. "Anyways, you have my condolences."

Unsure how to proceed from that, a few moments of awkwardness passed him by, before turning back to the table full of equipment. He had completely lost his train of thought on how to proceed. He looked everything over in thought, before looking back at them. "How about we start with you guys telling me what you're familiar with - Thomas I'm sure most of this looks familiar to you - and what you're not. We'll go from there."

Misty Gray - Logan
Bellz - Thomas
Melanin-Gxdess - Leo

 

[Bellz]

Sullivan Residence ​

~Dublin, Ireland ~ ​

Natasha Sullivan ​

x Little Sullivans ​

Natasha's face naturally lit up in a smile as she was greeted by both Conor and Lauren. It was hard to keep her emotions in check, eyes slightly watering at the sight of her father-in-law, who, the last time she saw him...hadn't been that to her at the time. "I can't believe you're even here! You look great!" She said, hugging him tightly. Releasing him, she then moved to hug Lauren as well "Always lovely to see you, love. I hope you're behaving." She murmured with sincerity to her niece, sending her a teasing glare and smile. When Conor then asked how she was, saying that Ali and the girls were back in Gran Canaria looking after Allen, Nat looked between the two of them. Moving to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear, she said, "Oh I'm excited to see them all, I hope they are well. I know Leo was so anxious to see you all. I hope Allen is well." Nat had avoided the question of how she was doing for the moment as Conor mentioned the kids. That was reason enough to hurry him inside to meet the clan in her mind, never mind how she was doing, he had four grandkids to meet.

"Well, you're in luck! They are causing havoc just behind this door, come in, please!" She said, giving both Conor and Lauren a wide smile as she chuckled, opening the door wide enough for them to enter. Milo was already sounding the alarm of a new visitor, barking his head off as Natasha shut the door behind Conor and Lauren. "Milo! Shut it! You're hurting my ears!" Veronica complained, rushing into the room to silence him, petting him to soothe him, which helped. But as her eyes caught the sight of Lauren along with someone new, she stopped the action.

"Right on time, I'd say. Veronica, love. Say hi to your cousin Lauren." Natasha told her and the more petite blonde girl smiled bashfully, waving at Lauren as she didn't take her eyes off Conor. Natasha chuckled lightly before calling the rest of her kids into the room. Once all were in attendance, Natasha moved to stand behind them all. "Is this the guy we had to get all dressed up for? Oh, Hi Lauren." Jaxson asked, jamming a thumb at Conor and Natasha looked almost mortified. "Don't be rude. Yes. Kids. This is your Grandpa Conor, your Dad's Dad. Conor, this our eldest of the group is Seana. Who you knew about before...you know." She pointed to her eldest daughter who was standing to the left, looking the most put-together out of the bunch and the most like Ali and in Natasha's opinion like Ali's mother and her namesake, Seana. Nat then pointed to each triplet respectively. "This is Veronica, the eldest of the triplets by only 10 minutes but she says it counts nonetheless." The girl made a sound of protest and Natasha smiled, "Then we have troublemaker Jaxson, I'm sure you two will get along great." The woman pointed to her second eldest triplet who was giving her a look, "Hey!" He said but she just ignored him, before looking at Wayne with a smile, " And then the youngest of the trio, Wayne, who has to put up with the antics of the other two I'm sure, don't you, love?" Watching as the boy gave a small laugh.

Natasha looked to Conor, "Four of them. Which I'm sure my mam was just as shocked about, eh?" She said, wondering about her mother, Adam, and Collin but refraining from getting too deep in the conversation as she let Conor interact with the kids. Jaxson walked up a little closer to Conor, all confident with his chest puffed out a bit. "Dad says you used to be a real tough guy, you don't look so tough to me, Grandpa Con." To which Natasha made a low noise of disapproval as Jaxson looked back at her, "Whaat, mam? You told me not to lie! I'm not lyin'!" Veronica then rolled her eyes, "Jaxson, stop trying to pick a fight with Grandpa Conor as you do with Dad! It's not going to work. Besides, he'd probably kick your butt anyhow." Jaxson blew a raspberry and looked at Veronica, "I'll kick your butt."

"No butt-kicking in this house, both of you. I just got it clean in here. Besides I'm sure your Grandpa and cousin would like to sit down and visit." Natasha said, pulling an apologetic face Conor and Lauren's way. "If you both wanna move into the dining room, I have a table full of food and then we can catch up in the lounge."
with: Conor Misty Gray ; Lauren neverbackdown
mentions: Leo + Ali Melanin-Gxdess

Warehouse 0517 ​

(Tactical Training Room)
~ Lower Clapton, London ~​

Thomas Porter ​

​

Thomas had smiled at Logan's joke, "Careful now, we're surrounded by them. Might offend one of these soft Brits if we aren't careful." He said, teasing but also knowing that some of these people were quick to easily offend. Especially in the early stages of all of this. He didn't have any issues with anyone, at least not at the moment. "Leo will be here yea, at least when I last spoke with him he said he'd be here," Thomas said to Logan, smirking at the rookie joke.

"You'd be right. Though..." The man looked from Logan to the guns, "I don't necessarily like to recall the times I had to use any of these. Used all of them at one time or another, almost all of the gear too." Thomas' face was serious as he stared at the guns for a moment, "I won't talk down to you or anything but...don't be afraid to ask for help after you have to use one of these in close proximity. A lot of us are still haunted by our first kill, even second, third, or fourth." His eyes looked to Logan, hoping he understood what he meant.

"Feel like it's rarely talked about in a room full of men but hey, I've been through more than most and not in a show-offish way, just in a way to say I wish I would have said something at the time it happened. I don't know you well but if we are going to kill together, that's a kind of bond that...a lot of normal people don't have so...If you need to talk, Leo and I are always down for a pint." Before he could say anymore Leo walked into the room, "Speak of the devil, eh?" Thomas said, looking at his cousin with a smile. The smiles and the trying to act normal were...effort but, he was trying. It was more effort than he'd put in, in a while. So, he thought it was something at least.

When Leo asked if he was good, Thomas simply nodded his head gently. "Yea. Maybe ask again after this is all over?" Another joke, though it was weaker than before as he thought about his mom again. Thomas heard Leo question Logan, listening to their back and forth if they had time for it before Jeremy walked in. Having a nervous wreck of a brother, it wasn't hard to decipher that Jeremy held some nervous air to him. Taking in his appearance, he was all ready to go in his gear from head to toe. Thomas silently commended him for having everything together and ready to go.

Jeremy started off by welcoming them and thanking them for being there. Friendlier than basic training, but not like they had a choice. Looked like he was trying to put in more effort than before. When he acknowledged Thomas's military experience, the man nodded his head lightly and offered a salute at the comment about him sharing his knowledge. He briefly wondered if all this reminder of his military time was going to cause trouble in his personal life. Sometimes it sat behind his eyes like a headache...but, it hadn't aggravated him in years, and hadn't caused problems in so long. The PTSD had long since been dealt with. Still -- in the corner of the room, sat his service dog, Tramp, ironically quiet as a mouse. Ready to help if needed. After so many years of not being able to wear it, his camouflage service dog vest was strapped around him as he laid down, being as patient as ever.

Jeremy then looked uncomfortable and Thomas watched him with the slight tilt of his head before the man said he was sorry that he had to be here today. Thomas's heart dropped and Tramp instantly sat up but didn't move from his seated position, just watching his owner sensing the change in mood. Thomas was shocked that Jeremy apologized for his loss, and to Leo. He was equally shocked that he said he knew his mother in Germany. The younger man swallowed the lump in his throat, feeling the misplaced anger steaming to the surface. He knew he couldn't let it out now. And he wouldn't, especially with Jeremy apologizing. Thomas looked to Tramp in the corner of the room, who was on all fours, tail slowly wagging, a sign that he was alerted to an extreme shift in his owner's mood but he didn't move. He would only move on command or for certain signs.

"T-thank you, Jeremy. She was a great woman and a wonderful mom to me. I hope she was kind to you in Germany." His voice was strained but he made it through getting out what needed to be said before the few beats of awkward silence took over. When it was all turned back to the training Thomas had lost interest, his thoughts only on his mother now. He could barely hear Jeremy mention talking about starting with what they were familiar with and what they weren't, but at the mention of it all looking familiar to him, Thomas nodded his head, "Yea, almost all of it."
with: Logan Misty Gray ; Leo Melanin-Gxdess ; Jeremy BasDorcha
mentions: Syd Pyroclast ; RIP Lucy

Warehouse 0517
(Shooting Range)
~ Lower Clapton, London ~​

J.J. Porter ​

Collin McCarthy ​

​

J.J. and Collin were intrigued by the pistols as Dermot set them down on the table in front of them. Collin looked a lot more curious than J.J. who had already been familiarized. Collin watched as Dermot handed Lucas an unloaded pistol, asking Lucas to show him how he'd hold it if he was going to shoot the man in the chest. Lucas gripped it and pointed it in Dermot's direction and the man was immediately dissatisfied, gruffly commanding Lucas to hold it straighter as J.J. and Collin both tried to hold in their laughter, with J.J. slapping a hand over his own mouth.

Collin then elbowed J.J. as Dermot was giving instructions, telling him to shush with a finger over his lips as the man was giving Lucas advice on how to hold it. Both were now silent with effort to keep it that way as they watched Dermot and Lucas. Collin watched Lucas closely, not just taking in his hands as it gripped the gun, but just his form. The way his arms flexed just a little bit as he gripped it...

I've been complimented on my grip before... Collin's cheeks turned pink in an instant as his eyes went wide, only able to smile as J.J. looked to Lucas like he couldn't believe what he just said, just as wide-eyed as Collin. "He said what now!?" J.J. asked, letting out a laugh as Dermot brushed off the joke but Collin was just smiling at Lucas with the shake of his head.

"Seriously. Got it. Okay." J.J. moved to grab the gun on the table in front of him as well as the cartridge before turning around away from everyone else to load the gun. Pointing the weapon down towards the ground J.J. slipped the cartridge into place with a satisfying click and smiled to himself before keeping the gun pointed towards the ground, finger away from the trigger. "That was easy." He said cooly, wiggling his eyebrows at Lucas. "I'd make some dirty joke but...Honestly, I can't think of any right now." He chuckled.

Collin was...not so graceful. The man's hands were a bit shaky as he reached for his own gun and the cartridge, not bothering to turn around like J.J. but just pointing everything down as well. The gun was slippery in his sweaty palms, however, and it kept sliding with each shake from his fingers. The cartridge nearly slipped out of his hand, but he caught it just before it could fall completely towards the ground. Looking up and giving the room a nervous laugh, Collin quickly moved to load the weapon and with some effort he did it. Though his hands kept sliding on the handle of the gun. "I think, I think I got it!" He looked to J.J. before looking to Lucas with a boyish grin, "No dirty jokes out of me. All business, see?"
with: Lucas + Dermot Misty Gray

 

[Misty Gray]

Warehouse 0517 (Training Centre)
~ Lower Clapton, London ~

Dermot Murphy and Lucas Sullivan​

Lucas had caught on to the way the others reacted to his comment about his grip. He had to remind himself he wasn't with the friends he'd grown comfortable with in Gran Canaria. Although he was now back with the childhood friends he'd wanted to be reunited with, they had missed so many years of each others' lives that he still needed to get used to who they were now. Dermot had been blunt enough to move things on quickly so he didn't need to dwell on it or anything. Having paid attention to what they were told, Lucas had no trouble loading the gun and smiled to himself, glad he hadn't messed that part up.

Lucas nodded in agreement when J.J. concluded it was easy, after his own success. When his cousin also commented that he'd make a dirty joke if he could think of one, Lucas scoffed back at him, innocently shaking his head. He noticed Collin struggled a little with loading the gun. He had to fight the instinct to step in and help him, so instead just hoped his friend would be able to sort it himself. When Collin was successful, Lucas couldn't help but smile back at his boyish grin. What an enticing grin it was. Then when Collin said he had no dirty jokes, Lucas shook his head in protest. "I don't know what you're all on about. I just made a factual comment and if you all took that as dirty, then the three of you need to get your minds cleaned. Bunch of perverts," he remarked.

"Alright, lads," Dermot said, ignoring the conversation as he pointed to the booths. He assigned them each a spot, with J.J. in the middle with Lucas to his left and Collin to his right. Telling them to set their guns down beside their ear defenders, he then asked the three to gather a short distance behind him so he could demonstrate. Placing the ear protectors on his head and covering his ears, Dermot's voice naturally switched up in volume. He pointed to the target in the distance, which depicted a life-size human torso and head, along with points for specific areas. "What you're going to be shooting at is a picture, and assuming you have decent aim, it's easy to deliver a fatal shot. What I'm teaching you today is skill and control over a weapon. In reality, shooting at a real human - injuring or killing them - won't be so easy. But that emotional shit will be covered in a different training session."

"Presumably not with him," Lucas remarked with a smirk, acknowledging Dermot didn't seem like the sensitive type.

"A training session run by someone else..." Dermot added, almost as if he'd heard Lucas' comment. Raising his gun and gripping it in both hands, he pointed the weapon towards his target. "Keep your hands still. Use your dominant eye to aim," he spoke as he demonstrated the position. After continuing to talk them through how to accurately aim and ensuring they accurately hit the intended target, Dermot finally took to firing his gun with precision accuracy. Two bullets in the centre marking of the chest and then two in the forehead of the target. "That wanker right there would be beyond dead now," he concluded.

Turning to the three, Dermot removed his ear protectors and commanded them to step into their booths and get into position. "Ahead of you are Carter thugs who will take you down if you don't get 'em first. Lucas, you're up. Remember where I aimed for."

Lucas quickly nodded, keen to test his ability. After putting on his ear protectors, he took his gun and held it as Dermot had instructed him to. As he aimed at the centre of the target's chest, he hesitated. Only a few weeks ago he'd been getting paid to save lives. Instead of shooting someone in the chest, he'd been on the floor delivering compressions to a young woman's chest to stop her from dying. Now, he was suddenly learning how to kill someone. He was aware there was a heavy psychological toll that would follow in shooting another human and that apparently they'd receive guidance in handling that, but in the moment, he was hit with a wave of uncertainty. Clearing his throat, he gripped the gun again and steadied his aim. He focused and squeezed the trigger. A bullet hit the target's left shoulder, before he altered his aim to then hit the edge of the right forearm. Finally a bullet was sent below the target, hitting the backboard against the wall.

Dermot waited for Lucas to remove the headset and turn to him before speaking. "Well, that one in the shoulder would hurt for sure, though I'm not sure where that last shot was heading," he commented. "Were you even aiming for the chest and head?" he asked.

"I um... I was going for the shoulder, arm and leg. To slow them down. Disable them. We don't have to kill everyone, do we?" Lucas questioned.

"No, you don't have to kill everyone, but you have to be prepared to do it and know how to do it. If those were the intended targets, then you didn't do a bad job. Just for the sake of being hypothetical, have one more go and aim for the middle of the head. It's not real. We're good," Dermot told him. Lucas reluctantly did as he was asked and took one more shot which hit a few inches from the centre but still managed to get the target's head, at least. "Not bad for your first time. A bit more practice and you'll be good at this," Dermot assured him. He then pointed to Collin. "You're up next. Then J.J." he said, instructing J.J. to take his shots.

Bellz (J.J., Collin)

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Cruisin' Around London
~ London ~
Albie Copenhagen​

For most of the drive, Albie had remained silent and in his thoughts. His hands remained in his lap and his eyes glued to the window next to him. So much was happening and changing and it was all happening so quickly. One second his boss' entire family is dead and the next they're up and walking around - clearly not dead. Then his boss asks him and the other three people he trusted to sign some papers agreeing to work for a huge government agency. They were small-time thugs. Bill collectors and chauffeurs and babysitters. What the fuck did they know about going to war with one of the biggest and most influential family in all of London? It was stressing him out and he hadn't had a chance to process it. Of course, he agreed to everything signed the immunity papers, and went over the things he was and wasn't allowed to do, but he was still processing. How the hell did the King family get themselves in such a mess to begin with? How did they know Interpol to the point where they were willing to make that deal? And how-

"What?" Archer was addressing Albie and all he heard was an explanation. It took him a second to rewind the conversation before he responded. "Alex knows what he's doin' I think," he said, clearing his throat. "He seemed very comfortable with the whole idea which means he's got some sort of," Albie waved his hands around the air, trying to find the right words to say. "Rapport with them, so... Maybe we trust him and let this thing ride out." Even as the words left his mouth he was trying to convince himself that Alex knew, for sure, what he was doing. Never before had Alex made a bad call - at least, not in the couple of years he'd known him. He'd planned and thought about everything before ever making a move so this time around it had to be the same, right?

He was about to add more to his statement when he finally looked Archer's way. His heart stuttered in his chest for a split second, as if Albie had never seen him before. It'd done the same thing when the two of them got into the car with each other too. It was that crooked smile of his, he deduced. That crooked smile did wonders for him but he was trying not to acknowledge that right then. He didn't want anything getting in the way of the dynamic quartet, especially the crush he had on Archer. "Anyway, at least we won't be bored, right? We'll have plenty to do around he," he joked. Though after realizing that it did, in fact, mean more work, he groaned and leaned his head back against the headrest. "Fuck. Just realized what that means." He shook his head and took a deep sigh before leaning forward to gently shake Natalie by the shoulders. "We almost there yet, mom?"

En Route to Alex's Bar
~ Soho, London ~
Alex King​

None of it felt real. Not a single part. And even though he'd spent nearly two weeks with them now, Alex was still waiting for Kerry to tell him he'd gone crazy. That he was a schizophrenic and mourning his family again and that they were gone. But it wasn't happening. Kerry wasn't feeding into his delusions and trying to make him feel better; his family was alive. Catching up with his brothers had also been a surreal experience. They were raising kids and had new additions and were in happy relationships. He'd never seen his brothers glowing as much as they were and he loved it. His kids also seemed to be enjoying the fact that they had cousins their age to play with, as well as uncles they were actually related to. Not that Archer and Albie weren't great; it was just a bit different. Lizzie was immediately won over when both Billy and Spencer brought her new hats to add to her collection. It didn't take much to get in her good books, mind you, but gifting her a hat? You had a friend for life.

The last couple of days had been spent getting reacquainted with one another and moving his brothers into their respective homes. It was almost like they were about to go back to living their normal lives, but that wasn't the case. They were being allowed some time to get settled before having to make good on their contract; make good on their promise. The reality of that contract was beginning to settle in and the stress of everything was starting to settle back in. The Carters were a force - everyone knew that. And dealing with them was a risk no matter the person or organization. They seemed to be lucky and got out of trouble a lot easier than the King family ever had. Their influence and overall reach covered London completely. How Interpol thought they were about to get them was beyond Alex, but their deal was too good to pass up.

The bad blood between the Sullivan and King family had been 'resolved' over a decade ago... Or so, they hoped. They'd all apologized and he and Savannah had made up, but they didn't exactly have an opportunity to see where it would take them. Things still felt a little weird between the two, but that could be attributed to them not having any contact in over a decade. He was sure - or rather hoped - things between them would continue to be amicable but a part of him was holding out hope. In order to help work on that relationship, Spencer had decided to give them a tour of the city. It was a good basis and place to start considering the jobs they were going to be doing. Getting them familiarized with the area was important. Alex's buddy for the day was Adam. The two second-in-commands doing a little bit of bonding? They were going to be best friends... At least, that's what Alex kept trying to tell himself.

"Adam," Alex greeted, offering a handshake. "Settling into lovely London okay?" He then gestured to his car before getting in on the driver's side. "Figured we'd do what Spence and Syd are doin'. Show you all the businesses and stashhouses and all that. I've got a pretty good security team set up, but maybe... You can uh, take a look and see if we're lacking anywhere?" Alex's voice wasn't as unsure as it was... Apprehensive. He took great pride in keeping things together and making sure he ran a tight-knit operation. Knowing that someone with far more experience than he made him feel very nervous. He just had to keep reminding himself that it was a good thing and not a bad one. Everything could always use a bit more improvement.

Alex pointed out all the routes they took - known and unknown to the public. The back roads and hidden pathways to places civilians would never find. He also pointed out the different businesses and their level of importance to both him and the family business. When they reached his pub, Alex sat for a minute before pointing at the building. "This one, however. This one is more important to me. Been in the family for years and sometimes the kids hang out in my office. The pub will always be my number one priority, so. You got any bright ideas I'm more than willin' to listen." Alex gently smacked the back of his hand against Adam's chest before suggesting they go inside. "I won't make you pay for the first one."

 

[Misty Gray]

Warehouse 0517 (Training Centre)
~ Lower Clapton, London ~

Logan Thomson​

Logan listened as Thomas confirmed he was familiar with the kind of situation they were in and the equipment set out. It seemed like his experience was more official, as in the army rather than just gang wars. When he said not to be afraid to ask for help if he needed it, Logan nodded his head. He hadn't killed before, but there had been times when he felt like he wanted to. His own father, his wife's killer, various lowlifes in jail. Whilst he was familiar with fighting and using violence, things now were new to him. Actually killing someone was new to him. He'd only just gotten his head around the revelation of Spencer's real identity and that the man he thought he'd known for years was a killer himself. Spencer certainly seemed to take that fact about himself well, but he and Thomas had both now warned Logan it wasn't that simple.

"Thanks," he told Thomas. "I'll keep that in mind. I know it won't be easy, but it's good to know people around here aren't expecting us to just handle it and stay quiet." Logan knew he hadn't been the best at talking about things in the past. At one point he'd bottled things up enough in his grief that he came close to taking his own life. After that, even when Shona and Spencer understood he was struggling, he admittedly still kept some things to himself if only so as not to be a burden on them. "I'll hold you and Leo to that pint," he said, flashing a smile. Before either could follow up, Leo joined them.

Logan laughed when Leo suggested all of the tax money had gone on the weaponry. He stopped short of making another joke about the English, deciding to save it for winding Spencer up at a later date. Logan stepped back and looked over the tactical gear again whilst Thomas and Leo caught up with each other. Then when Leo asked him how we was doing, Logan grinned at being called a newbie. "Oh yeah, I think I'm ready. Unless one of you two wants to hold my hand through it?" he played along.

Jeremy soon enough joined them and Logan reminded himself to try to not make waves or distract from their training. He folded his arms and nodded when Jeremy thanked them for attending. The man then confirmed Thomas had previously been in the military, but before Logan could think much more about that, he noticed how uncomfortable Jeremy became. Logan looked to Leo with a puzzled expression, but held his tongue before making any comment or remark, regardless of what nature his words might come out as. He soon understood when Jeremy addressed Thomas and Leo to give his condolences about someone named Lucy who had passed away. Logan was clearly the only person who didn't know the woman in question, but it didn't mean he didn't care that they'd lost someone. He gazed towards the Thomas' apparent therapy dog for a moment, switching off his own experiences with death, but then looked back up to the others. "I'm sorry for your loss, guys," he sensitively told them. It wasn't clear when Lucy had died, but the atmosphere made it seem like it was relatively recent and Logan was amazed they'd all still managed to make it to training despite their loss.

Jeremy moved their focus on to the matter at hand. Logan looked to the table of equipment before asking them what they were familiar with. Thomas was first to answer, confirming he was familiar with all of it. Logan sent him a brief look, having sensed the change in the man's demeanour. When he was sure Thomas wasn't going to say anything else, Logan took a step forward and looked over the tactical gear. "I can probably tell you what most of this stuff is, but I'm not familiar with using it. Knives," he began, pointing, "I'm great with those. I've always been more of a brawler, using my own fists to take people down. And carrying out surveillance. But guns and shit... I haven't used them," he honestly told him.

Melanin-Gxdess (Leo) BasDorcha (Jeremy) Bellz (Thomas)

 

[Misty Gray]

Sullivan Residence
~ Dublin, Ireland ~

Conor Sullivan​

After his and Syd's experiences with counselling, Conor wasn't entirely sold on Lauren studying Psychology. Granted, she wasn't Maddox and she was on their side. But still, the thought of his past stopped him from being hugely enthusiastic. When she told him she was considering a year abroad and suggested England, she was lucky there wasn't time to get into it at the moment. Given what was going down with the Carters, England was one of the last places he thought his granddaughter should be going to. When she also mentioned being a hitman or a Capo, Conor decided to take it as a joke and address it when in private again. He was not encouraging her to go anywhere near gang business.

Stepping into the house where the dog was barking and kids voices were heard, the chaos almost took him back to his past. Things in Gran Canaria had been mostly quiet and peaceful, but now he felt that familiar chaos of the earlier years returning to him. He was distracted when Veronica joined them and Natasha told the girl to say hi to Lauren. The child did so but her eyes were fixed on Conor who proceeded to smile down at her. Soon enough, the other kids joined them and one in particular commanded the old man's attention. He scoffed when Jaxson asked if he was the reason they'd had to get dressed up. Seeing Natasha look embarrassed by it, Conor flashed her a smile. He listened and took in the children's names as Natasha introduced them. "Well, it's great to meet you all! Seana, Veronica, Jaxson, and Wayne," he repeated their names. "I'm sure I'll remember those. If not, I'll just assign you each a number instead and those will be your new names," he teased. His memory wasn't as sharp as it had been when he was younger, but Conor doubted he'd forget his grandchildren's' names. Conor had found it amusing that Jaxson had been referred to as the troublemaker, along with a comment he and him would get along. He was sure he'd learn more about that in time. "Oh yeah, Ali and I were pretty shocked to learn you had four of 'em. I just hope they're cool with sharing a single Christmas present. I'm not made of money," he said, whispering loudly as if trying to be discreet but really wanting the kids to hear him.

Conor's attention was drawn to Jaxson who had taken a step closer and appeared almost like he was trying to look tough. The kid then mentioned Leo had said he used to be a tough guy, adding that he didn't think he looked tough. "Wow..." Conor began, but stopped when Veronica told the boy to stop picking a fight. "Jaxson," Conor began, pausing as the name easily rolled off his tongue yet memories of his old best friend Jackson suddenly entered his thoughts. Pushing back the thoughts of his long deceased friend, Conor quirked his eyebrow at Jaxson, about to address him on the subject of kicking his butt, but Natasha told the kids there was be no fighting in the house.

When his daughter-in-law told them to move to the dining room, Conor's eyes lit up at the mention of food. He took a few steps forward before looking back to Jaxson. "Your sister is right, y'know. I can easily kick your butt and don't think I'd hold back just because your a kid," he said, grinning at the boy. As they entered the dining room, Conor's attention was soon drawn to the food. "Now this is what I'm talking about. I'm starving. Hope you all ate already, and you're not hungry, Lauren, because I could easily eat everything here," he joked.

neverbackdown (Lauren) Bellz (Natasha)

 

[Misty Gray]

Carter Technologies
~ City of London, London ~

Xavier Carter​

Xavier was glad to hear that Reign wasn't being overprotective with him as he had enough of that with their parents. All he wanted was to be given the same chances his siblings had and right now his oldest sister was offering him such an opportunity. "Don't worry about me. I won't disappoint you."

Xavier was informed of the job on the Farringdons and the mistakes that had been made. Xavier already had a good understanding of his father's business, even if he wasn't invited to take part in that side of things, so the attack on their rivals didn't disturb him when his sister spoke about it. Once parked outside the office, Reign took the moment to warn Xavier that their uncle would try to be friendly with them. She went on to emphasise this was business and nothing else. He nodded in understanding when told to follow her lead and take mental notes. Xavier got out of the car when she did and walked to her side. Before they entered the building, Reign turned to him and straightened out his tie. "Jeez..." he grumbled. When she was finished and commented on his appearance, he couldn't help but smirk. "I always look sharp."

Xavier entered the building at Reign's side but stayed silent as she spoke with the secretary. He kept a neutral, stoic expression on his face as the woman said Elijah hadn't mentioned family would be stopping by. Somehow he maintained his straight face when his sister said their uncle didn't like her much. The secretary was told to cancel the rest of Elijah's meetings and go home for the day. Xavier nodded when told to make sure the secretary left. Whilst his sister headed to their uncle's office, Xavier stood over the desk and watched the woman closely as she rushed to gather her belongings. "Early finishes are always a treat," he commented. "Make the most of it," he said, moving to hold the main door open for her even whilst she was still getting her things together. Soon enough the secretary had left the building and Xavier locked the door behind her.

Xavier reached Elijah's office just in time to hear Reign asking if they could sit and chat as they had a lot to discuss. Xavier sent his uncle an acknowledging nod before following Reign into the office.

Melanin-Gxdess (Elijah) Pyroclast (Roman) Bellz (Reign)

 

[BasDorcha]

Brook's Home

London​

​

Kathleen Thatcher

Coming to a stop along side Trevor, she looked about for a taxi to wave down but found none within the visible area. Looks like she'd be walking until she found one. A small sigh broke her lips but the thoughts didn't take long to be chased away from her focus. As he asked her about why she was choosing to try and apologize now, along with why she even wanted to, her mind turned back to the mountain of a goal she had set herself and the conversation at hand. Chewing on her lip she fell silent for a few minutes, listening as he went on to tell her he knew exactly what it was like to be in her shoes - at least from the general sound of it. For a moment, despite the dower topic of conversation, Kathleen felt herself smiling a natural smile for the first time in a long time. For a split second, she remembered her younger self thinking about how well Trevor and her had clicked during that passionate but short lived sojourn over three decades ago.

While even her younger self was not foolish enough to think a man that was as obvious a rascal as Trevor had been back then would stay, she had always felt that if he had it might have been a nice relationship. Realizing now that they had separated yet still taken similar paths in life and both ended up in the same situation of trying to fix things they had broken was a little bit like finding a kindred spirit. Looking up at him, she admired his side profile for a moment before looking back at her feet, the warm feeling she'd had disappearing as the reason for it all came back to the forethoughts of her mind. Hearing the truth from him now about his family, his addictions, and what he had been left Kathleen feeling all too familiar. That was essentially the same ending she had come too - destroying her family, losing her husband, and with two children that wanted nothing to do with her. At least Alfie still talked to her from time to time.

"I see." She said softly, thinking about the words he said carefully. So it would be the long haul she thought it would be, but she was prepared for it, after all that's why she decided a move to London would be the best way to start it - couldn't prove herself a country away. "Mostly, I just want to make sure my daughter is okay. I… I did a lot of unforgivable things while she was growing up, and I never treated her right, but I never meant any of it. I was just a miserable woman with too many problems I didn't want to confront and I took it out on her when really I should have just showed her I loved her and treasured her. Of course, it would be a lie to say it wasn't for me as well, but I need to try and repair the damage I'm sure to have done." A sigh escaped her lips. "But, as you said yourself, I'm willing to accept that she won't let me do that, and will never let me back into her life as long as I can see for myself that she's okay before I do so. When I seen her a few weeks ago, she looked… exhausted. Not normal exhausted, but strained, threadbare, like she was just going through the motions of being awake for the day."

She looked back up at Trevor, fingers pushing her lip back between two pinched teeth before releasing it again. "Trevor… Is she alright?"

 

[Misty Gray]

The Brooks' House
~ Bethnal Green, London ~

Trevor Stewart​

Trevor noticed Kathleen looking around and was for a moment puzzled as to why she'd sighed. It did enter his mind that she might not have her own car and had arrived by public transport. Given the nature of the conversation they were having, he wasn't going to change the subject for the moment so didn't address the matter of how she was getting home.

Trevor didn't know the details of how Kathleen had treated May when she was growing up, but it all felt too familiar. Even the fact she had now acknowledged she should have been showing their daughter love and appreciation. He'd treated Spencer extremely poorly; belittling the boy, hitting him and all the rest of it. He'd since admitted he should have treated his son very differently, like a real dad would have. No matter how genuine he was now and how much he wanted to make it up to his eldest, Trevor kept in mind that Spencer owed him nothing and if he never forgave him then he would have to accept that. Kathleen would have to be prepared for the same with May. "It's good to be realistic. I don't know if my eldest will every let me back in his life, but seeing the man he's become is enough consolation. Of course I hope things will change and I'll get to meet his kids, but I'm just glad he made something of himself despite me screwing up his childhood."

When Kathleen spoke of how she'd seen May and that their daughter looked exhausted, Trevor nodded in understanding. "Oh yeah, strained is a good word to put on it." Trevor looked Kathleen in the eyes and shrugged his shoulders. "As far as her marriage is, no, I don't think she is okay. I don't know why her and Christian are still married, but I've said my peace and told her I think the best they can do is get divorced. As a bloke, he's not bad or anything, but they ain't right for each other, from what I've seen over the years. I'm not just saying it because I don't get along with him, but he's clearly May's problem. She's got a house, a job, two great kids, family around her supporting her. If you saw her and Christian together, how miserable they look, then I'm sure you'll come to the same conclusion I have."

Trevor was aware of his commitments to the Interpol investigation and how the Kings returning was going to step things up a few gears with the Carters. Part of the reason he'd offered to look after Chloe today had been because he wouldn't be able to see his grandchildren and other family members as openly as he had been able to. As soon as Ezekiel learned Spencer and the others weren't dead and were back in town, Trevor knew he'd be watching him like a hawk. Not only that, Trevor suspected he would have to work overtime to prove the Kings still hated him and demonstrate his loyalty to the Carters. "I'm doing what I can to support her, but I can't always be here, Kathleen. My job and other commitments mean I can be away for days at a time," he explained, knowing he couldn't go into full details. "I have a five year old kid living a few towns away too." Pinching the bridge of his nose, Trevor sighed. "What I'm saying is, try not to push her away, but I'd also appreciate you doing what you can to make it up to her so you can be another source of support." Trevor knew May had siblings, cousins, uncles and an aunt too. So whilst it pained him to know how stretched he was about to be, he had some reassurance May had other sources of support for when he couldn't get to her. "Where are you living now?" he asked Kathleen.

BasDorcha (Kathleen)