Prohibition

[Ninjz]

Don Meigion leaned back in the high backed chair. He took a few more puffs on his Cuban cigar and then spoke.
"So, what are we going to do about the fuzz cracking down on booze?" He looked around at the rest of the Dons. This meeting was mainly to determine the new head of the syndicate, but with all the other candidates "withdrawn," Meigion had taken over. Now he sat in the chair that was the right of the leader, and in the half light of the parlor, looked truly menacing. All of the other Dons mumbled and brought up various ideas, that were all more of the same. Meigion smiled, and his brilliant teeth looked sharpened and deadly. His eyes flashed, and he looked like a cheery leader, but if one were to look truly at him, you would see a soulless machine.
"Alright enough, I have an answer to this, there is a team of smugglers that owe me a few favors, and a whole lot of money. So we will just have them run the booze in and around. Now what I need you guys to do is to get a few crews together and make up a few new bars."


Oliver Groufin was a mousy little British immigrant. He owned a large apartment building, and was at heart a good man. However, he had fallen on hard times, with the value of land going down, and the value of stocks and intangible things went up. Oliver had seen an opportunity, and borrowed some money. He knew of a small time Don in the area, and thought he could borrow some cash, make some more in the stock market, then pay off the gangster. This was 2 years ago, and the stock plan had gone south. The small time Don had risen, and now ascended to leader of the gangs in the whole city. So Oliver wasn't too surprised when Meigion's lieutenant showed up one day and asked for his due.
"So Ollie," the man said, sneering at the poor Englishman," Time is up on this month's payment." Oliver started to stutter an excuse when the lieutenant interrupted. "Don't worrier my friend, were not here for money this time. The boss decided to be generous and include you in on a little business deal. See people around here have been getting very thirsty, and with this now pro-a-whatzit they can't satisfy it. So we need to use your basement as a little establishment. You get to keep 10% of the profits, and you can even pay off you debt finally. We've got some boys arriving tonight with your first shipment. But in a few hours a woman will arrive with her aid, and we expect that basement of yours to be cleaned up and furnished." with that he patted a stunned Oliver on the cheek, and walked off.

Oliver stood there gaping for a moment, then he scurried off to get supplies and furniture. Taking the rest of the day he cleaned up the basement of the Apartment complex and set up a few tables and stool that he got from one of the local bars that were forced to close down. All the while wondering when this mysterious woman would arrive.

[Moridanu]

( Lana "Big Mama" Celeste):


*The sound of clicking heels against the hard concrete floor of the basement announced the arrival of Lana “Big Mama” Celeste as she swept into Mr. Groufins’ cellar, bringing with her the clear and sweet fragrance of exotic spices. The heels were of course attached to a pair of shoes that only someone with money equalling Lana would be able to afford. These crimson velvet stilettos were wrapped around pampered toes painted a similar shade of red, before coming to rest at the bottom of her slim ankles. The ankles were encased in a thin black fishnet stocking that defied all reason by stretching around her shapely calves and even more shapely thighs. These thighs were half hidden under a tight scarlet skirt that perfectly matched the tight fitted jacket she wore nipped in at her narrow waist. Her large bosom, arguably her most famous asset, threatened to spill out of the black corset she wore under a loose black silk blouse that peeked out from beneath her scarlet lapels. As she walked, she played absently with a black ruby encrusted hair pin that was currently keeping her platinum blonde wavy hair from falling into her indigo eyes.

The pin had been a gift from Don Meigion a few months after they had started their “business relationship”. Although that had been more than a few years ago now, she often still thought of him when she wore it. Twirling the pin absently between two perfectly manicured nails, Lana dismissed Mr. Groufin with a quick glance of disdain before she walked around making mental notes of what she would need to turn this dump into the latest happening hotspot. Minutes after her cool violet eyes had surveyed the scene and her harried mind had kicked into gear, she was on the phone to Don Meigion telling him what was needed when and how much of it she would need. Ignoring the mousy little British man as she paced while she talked, Big Mama was in her element.

She proved to be the woman for the job as it took only a few weeks for the formerly dark and dingy cellar to become a cool, sophisticated club. Decorated in her favourite colours of red and black, the club definitely reflected her personal style, ensuring that she would feel comfortable within the surroundings she knew from experience would become her world for the next few months.

While the real purpose of the club was the bootlegging operation that was currently being set up in the backroom, Big Mama still had her reputation to think of, therefore it was essential that the club was perfect before she could rest. Fortunately, save for a few minor adjustments, the club would easily be ready for its debut in two nights time. Polished surfaces gleamed, strategically placed lamps burned low, creating the perfect ambience and Lana smiled her approval as her eyes trailed to the clock that hung over the bar area. Ava was due to arrive any minute and Lana was excited to see the girl as Ava had been given the job of finding a suitable name for their latest club. As Lana signed for yet another delivery, she glanced up at the clock again, eager to see what Ava had come up with. *

[Holly St. Claire]

Introducing HOLLY ST. CLAIRE

A new set of heels could be heard making their way down the staircase, these set of heels sounded different, forceful, faster. As Holly emerged from the shadows the very air itself in the room seemed to simply stop circulating, men of course would gasp, woman of course would burst with a jealous rage. There was nothing quite like Holly St. Claire, Dark, mysterious and one of the most beautiful creatures people had ever seen, she oozed confidence and sexuality, it was planted all over her features and simply exploded from her mere presence. There was always something unusual about Holly she always seemed far to young, to dress and say the things she did, she had the confidence and maturity of a woman double her age, how old she was exactly? nobody had ever asked.

Holly St. Claire was a strange creature indeed, ethereal and strong, but somehow always shrouded in shadow, nobody knew her history, if she had any family, where she lived everything about her was mysterious, men had fallen over backwards trying to get a phone number, but she never gave it out. Holly's Raven locks was cut drastically short, it was parted to the side and wavy plastered neatly onto her scalp, a red rose sat at the side of her hair clipped in delicately, her long earrings matched the rose and hung gently against gold on her pierced ears. Her makeup was dark and vivid, dark black eye shadow and mascara matched her dark red painted lips and dark red fingernails. Her skin was very pale and flawless clashing against her dark red dress, it hung from straps across her shoulders and shimmered against her figure with every step, the dress was in sections and sequences down its frame and ended just below her knees. Black shinny stilettos finished the ensemble, Holly caught Big Mammas eye and walked towards her.

"Darling Big Mamma it really has been far too long…"

She said with a brilliant dark smile that lite up her features. Holly fumbled in her red purse and pulled out a long thin pipe, a cigarette was fastened at the end, she lite the cigarette and took a long puff. One of the few things people did know about Holly was she owned and ran her own Speakeasy in New York, all the money in the world couldn't stop it from being closed down, a certain cop by the name of Jamison had a vendetta against her it seems, luckily Holly was able to get out before it was too late, the close of her club the Kitty lounge was a punch in the face, but at least Holly would be able to get back on her feet in no time at all, she was a singer by profession and one of the most sort out speakeasy lounge singers in New York, she owned Big Mamma a favour.

"I assume you heard that, that Pig Jamison had my club closed down? I'm devastated Mamma truly…"

Holly voice was husky yet crisp, just by talking one could tell that she was an impressive singer.

"I'll need a grand piano… at least"

Holly said as she surveyed the basement

"Stairs? I suppose it'll do".

She said winking seductivley at her friend, it was enough to send any grown man to their knees.

"Has Ava arrived?"

Holly asked taking another deep breath of smoke from her ridiculously long cigarette and looking around in case she had missed her friend. She playfully fondled her long string of pearls with her free hand.


((TA DA, hope that’s cool guys, I gotta say I love my character! ;D))

[Ava]

Slipping up beside Big Mama like a lamp-eyed feline, Ava cocked a well-sculpted brow and pressed close to her side. Although the well-established pattern of gawking at those flawlessly-dressed and properly powdered women who slithered through Big Mama’s club was expected, the reaction that Ava drew exceeded that of any other pretty individual…except, of course, for Big Mama. Ava didn’t have any real desire to outdo Big Mama, anyway; like an adoring courtier, Ava followed Big Mama’s every word. The girl wasn’t star-struck, however — she simply loved Big Mama…she loved to be around her and to hear her speak with the authority that always seemed to permeate Big Mama’s character. Ava had no one else to call family…so for her, Big Mama was the world.

Though bereft of family (due to circumstances Ava never felt the need to fully explain), she was never, ever bereft of friends and lovers. They came in droves, her lovers…like pink pearls and free champagne. Drawn to green eyes ringed skillfully in kohl and dusted with dark shadow, Ava’s men (and sometimes Ava’s women) were dealt the conquering blow by a pair of Cupid’s bow lips too sweet, too red, and too altogether enticing to resist. Slim and petite, Ava dominated the bustier ranks of girls with her wit and sarcasm; her voice, almost girlish in its pitch, was silvery and chameleon-like…and Ava had no trouble seducing the most stoic hitman.

Flashing a smile almost as dazzling as her dress, Ava tossed her head and let her hands slip down to her hips.

“Miss Holly St. Claire! Darlin’…where have you been?”

[Ninjz]

Don Meigion scowled at the filth of the New York streets. He strode down the street alone, with no guards that anyone could see. He didn't need them. His reputation was so well known that he did not fear any foul play. It was his philosophy that a man who cowers behind guards was insecure with himself, and this was a weakness that needed to b expunged. Besides he was he deadliest aim in the entire Syndicate, and had killed more men than most people have met He walked up to the shabby apartment building, and trod down the steps to the newly refurbished basement. He knocked on the reinforced steel door, with the eye slit in the front. Big Momma had complained at this demand from the don. However, no matter how uncool it was the primary function of this establishment was illegal, and, worst come to worst, the door would allow some of the more important people to get out of the building before the fuzz burst in. He knocked the secret knock code and waited for Big Momma to open the door. He put on his most charming smile, and waited for her to open the door. She opened with a flourish and the Don was very surprised. She had really outdone herself here, and he was suitably impressed.
"Hello ladies," Meigion said, with a bow and a kiss for each. He flashed his pearly whites and nodded toward Holly,"It seems that we already have some talent for our nights. It will truly be a pleasure to hear you singing once again." The Don looked to the door as the code knock was sounded. "Well, it seems we have all arrived in time to meet our delivery boys." And with that Meigion walked to the door and peered outside, nodding in approval he opened the door.

[Ava]

(*Sob* Where did the roaring 20s go...?)

[Moridanu]

(( er... *looks to Timmy* I think we are still looking for some bootleggers... ? But Ill add this to my massive TO DO list for the weekend and have a post ASAP ))

[Ninjz]

Ya ive been waiting for some bootleggers to show up, cause i dont want the main storyline drivers to be ALL NPCs... of course i guess i could just change up the story line.
*Dies a little inside*

~Tim

[Great NPC]

As the Don swung the door open, in walked four men. The first was a giant of a man, in a cream colored trench coat, buttoned from the waist up, revealing two deadly looking revolvers. He walked in and immediately turned to the bar and took a seat. The second was as small as the first was large, clocking in at barely 5 feet. He was greasy looking, with black hair and and unkempt beard. He wore a white linen shirt and a leather vest, both looking well used, over a pair of brown trousers. He glanced in the direction of the ladies and let out a cat call. He retired a few stools down from the giant man, out of reach. The third and fourth were well built, handsome young men of about 20. The were obviously twins, and even dressed about the same, in clean but serviceable cotton shirts and trousers. They smiled at the girls and nodded to the Don, and walked over to the bar, sitting between the large and small man.

Meigion swung shut the door and turned to Big momma.
"These men will be your runners, the big one's Fred, he doesn't talk much. The rat faced cretin is Jimmy the hand, the others tend to keep him in line but make sure your purses are secure." At this Jimmy turned and smiled, showing crooked teeth and a large nose. "the two strapping young men are Peter and David, I don't know which is which, and frankly I don't care. Now I've got some meetings to go to." With this he Kissed Big momma on the cheek and walked to the door. Opening it he waved to Oliver, who scampered over. "oh, and by the way boys, someone might show up later, so don't wander." and with that he was out the door.

Peter(or David) looked over at Big momma and the rest and said "Well now that the hard ass is gone, lets get this place jumping!" He stood and walked over to the piano in the corner, while simultaneously his brother walked out the door and wheeled in a keg. Jimmy and Fred quickly stood and joined, and soon there was 3 kegs of beer, all labeled "Chicken Broth", and a stack of about 10 crates, that jingled when carried, all labeled "Danger: Lye in Water"

They closed the door and pulled out a few crowbars, opening the crates and pulling out some hard liquor. David(or Peter) began to play on the piano, a quiet yet lively tune. He glanced around, asking, "Well, can anyone sing, cause we can't"and with that he flashed a dazzling smile at the ladies.

(Sorry for the long wait, hope this helps get the ball rolling. Fell free to act and add customers as you see fit, I'll take over at 8:00 PM, right now it's about 5:00pm)

[Moridanu]

Lana "Big Momma" Celeste


As her keen ears alerted her to Hollys’ presence, Big Momma turned to watch the arrival of arguably one of the most beautiful women she had ever had the pleasure of meeting. Holly St Claire was a rare beauty, and an ever rarer talent. Ever the businesswoman, Lana knew that Holly would be her number one draw card, once word got out that she had arrived. She stepped forward and kissed the air beside Hollys cheek by way of greeting and offered a slight raise of her perfectly sculptured brow at the mention of Jamison.

~I always said we should’ve finished that pig when we had the chance.. but of course.. Ava.. ~she shook her head to clear her thoughts and gave a curt nod in answer to Hollys’ request for a piano.

~of course my darling girl.. you shall have your pick of the finest. ~ she gestured to the piano that stood in the corner of the room. ~I had this one shipped out, but if it does not meet your approval, merely say the word..~

Ava herself, announced her arrival by sliding up beside Lana. She stood back as Holly and Ava greeted each other, her mind already starting to drift to the last minute jobs that had to be done before the clubs official opening. Realising that they still had no name, she turned to Ava and asked ~Sweet Miss Ava, tell Big Momma… did you manage to complete your task? Did you think of a name for our latest venture?~

Before she was given an answer though, there was a loud knock upon the front steel door. She knew instantly that Don Meigion had arrived. Her left hand fluttered to life beside her narrow hip as it moved to fluff up her blonde waves as she walked quickly to let him in. His approval of what she had accomplished with the club was written all over his face, and she basked in the sensation of satisfaction as she returned his brief kiss and nodded in agreement to his sentiments about Hollys singing. It was then that another knock sounded, and after announcing their arrival, the Don introduced his “boys”. While the two young ones immediately drew her eye just by their looks alone, it was the other two that she studied more closely. They looked.. shifty, and she made it her personal mission to keep an extremely close eye on them for the duration of their time in the club. With a few words, and another quick kiss, the Don was gone. (( HAHA BB!?!! Is Don. Is good.))

Her indigo eyes burned a deep plum as she watched the boys suddenly come to life in the Dons absence. Her acidic tongue flew to the roof of her mouth and she literally had to bite down on it to resist the urge to reign the boys in and show them who they would be calling boss during their time in HER club. Fortunately for them, the young one playing the piano was actually proving to be only half bad, and as he encouraged Holly to sing, Lana allowed herself to smile. Walking over to the nearest crate, she held out her hand in a silent request to inspect the merchandise.

~There is a room that has been set up out the back for you boys and your … activities. Out here, there is to be no sign of anything that is even remotely illegal..~ she smiled, an illusion of her true intent as she leaned in closer to whisper in the ear of Fred, her hand closing around the neck of the large dark red bottle he had handed her. ~While the “Hard Ass” might be the head honcho as far as you boys are concerned, while you are here, in MY club, I call the shots.. you’d be best off learning that fact quickly and helping your boys to do the same… we understand each other big fella?~ she licked his scruffy cheek, only because she could, and moved back over to stand by Ava’s side.

~Come now Miss Holly.. please.. delight us with your lyrical talents.. I implore thee!~ giggling, she linked her arm through Avas as she raised the bottle she had acquired from Fred to her lips. Draining it of several drops, she then offered the bottle to Ava.

~So, my precious one, tell Big Momma… have we got a name for this place or what?~*

[Catrux]

Nazzareno had been called not long ago by Don Meigion, it wasn't the first time Nazz had been called by him, but it was fairly rare. Usually, Nazz was only called as a last resort, though he had successfully done some running for the Don before. Nazz was known for his impressive talents as a hitman, which was what undoubtedly first attracted the Don's attention. Nazz was one of those people that was known of, few knew what he looked like which made his job that much easier. One thing that Nazz is known for, besides his deadly efficiency, is his "Calling Card." After everyone of his larger hits, Nazz would leave a black fedora with blood red trim.

Meigion had called Nazzareno regarding business, but that was all he would say over the phone, so Nazz had to come into Meigion's city to learn more of his job. From the information Nazz was able to gather, and the bits and pieces he remembered from his last visit, he came to a speakeasy that the Don was known to make appearances at. Nazz stepped out of his car, replaced his black and red fedora, and smoothed out any wrinkles that may have appeared on his black and red pinstriped suit. Nazz was generally considered quite attractive, which was enhanced by the mysterious aura that seemed to envelop him.

With the grace and fluidity of a feline, Nazz made his way to the place, his dark eyes glancing about, but not enough to arise suspicion. Upon coming to the door Nazz rapped on the door what he remembered the knock to be. Apparently his recollection was correct since a pair of eyes quickly appeared, and asked what he wanted. With a professional voice, Nazz said "Don Meigion sent for me." Quickly the door was opened and Nazz was allowed inside. Immediately upon entering, Nazz could hear the jubilation, which caused him to shake his head. So much for trying to remain secret. Nazz merely entered the room and quick took inventory of everyone there, sizing them all up, and looking for Meigion. His cold gaze passed over everyone in the room, some lasted longer than others mainly the more attractive females in attendance, but the Don was not among them.

[Holly St. Claire]

HOLLY ST. CLAIRE

“Oh Ava sweets, things have been rough of late, but don’t fuss over me, You know me well, I’ll be as good as new in no time…”

She said with a seductive wink. The Boys began to fill the room, Holly's perfect brow raised slightly, she was not a woman to be messed with but the Don himself had his hands in the establishment’s pockets, Holly felt an uneasy sensation on her chest, she pulled closer towards Momma and whispered quietly in her ear

“Darling, I hope you know what you’re doing…”

Anyone else would probably get a slap in the face; of course she did, but Holly had to ask. Ava smiled at big Momma, the piano was perfect, but Holly didn’t mind toying with the idea of more.

“It’ll do just fine for now Momma, but I can’t say yay or nay for the future, if this place takes off we’ll need something… Italian. We should invest one of those newfangled radios in here too. Nothing impresses the folks more”

The Don left and the boys began to tear the place up, Holly Sighed quietly to herself, Lana was going to eat them alive, they had never met a woman like Big Momma Celeste before. Holly’s eyes widened angrily as one of the twins asked if anyone could sing.

“Can anyone sing indeed!”

She said loudly as she headed towards the piano, in one swift motion she lifted her entire body onto the grand piano and placed one leg neatly over the other. She began to sing a soft jazz number, between puffs of smoke. The Song didn’t really match with the poor playing of the piano, but her voice was soft and husky, deep and emotional, it was beautiful and a wonder why she had never tried to make it big in the new jazz age. (think Billie Holiday).

She playfully lowered herself closer to the young man playing, she gently stroked the side of his cheek before playfully slapping him hard, playful yes, but enough to sting, she straightened up and continued to sing even while a new comer was surveying her.

((Excuse me if this post is a bit all over the place, I’m having trouble concentrating at the mo.
Is Don is gooood!))

[Ava]

Ava giggled, surveying from beneath a thick fringe of smoky lashes the newest arrivals. She hadn't been with a boy in a while -- perhaps it was time to turn her seductive skills on a member of the male persuasion. Like any truly free individual, she didn't limit herself simply to one sex...and it was ridiculous to think that she'd stay with one side for very long. She'd been feeling anesthetized lately, the sparkle in her eyes had been just a bit dimmer beneath the the yellow and orange lights of Big Mama's place.

Big Mama.

The sudden turn in thought-subject brought her back to the situation at hand. Lucky enough to have caught the tail end of Mama's conversation, she realized that she'd been spoken to -- and with a toss of her elfin head, she resumed her tough-as-nails attitude and smiled coyly.

"Big Mama, of course I have! You didn't think I coulda' forgotten about a job like that, hmm?"

Ava smoothed her dress at the hip, the shimmering fabric drawing well-deserved attention to the dips and curves of her body.

"I was thinkin' somethin' like The Phoenix. Ya' know...'cause out of the ashes caused by Pro'bition, sharp kids like us rise up and take off. We make somethin' of ourselves..."

Her cherubic mouth curved up in a sensuous smile.

"Any way we know how..."

Slipping off without another word, Ava trailed behind Holly as she moved towards the piano. Hearing that girl's voice flow out across the room and into the hearts and heads of everyone gathered was an experience Ava never tired of. She doubted if anyone did. Listening attentively and grinning as Holly slapped the piano player, she turned brilliantly-burning green eyes on the crowd that had since gathered in the club. She was going on the hunt...and the selection had better not let her down...

[Ninjz]

The night passed with out incident, something Peter was grateful for. His brother had spent the better part of the time flirting with the singer between sets, and playing like a fiend when it was time. The atmosphere suited the young man, and the looks of the crowd gathering seemed pleasant enough. When Nazzareno entered, he sighed and elbowed Big Fred. Fred looked at the suited man and, for those that knew him, his eyes held the smallest amount of fear. Considering that this man had fought in the Great War, and had worked for the Don for almost ten years, the fear was more than enough warning.
"Hey Jimmy," who somehow had acquired himself a top hat and cane,"stay your thieving little hands by that one, he's the boss's man tonight." Jimmy gave Peter a small smile and slid through the crowd to the table next to Nazzareno. His skills in stealth were unmatched, and although he didn't quite look it, he had a latent charm. Soon the slightly buzzed clientele next to the Mob man were welcoming him like an old friend. Peter hoped the Don hadn't given their pictures to him, but what happened happened. As time passed the four bootleggers ordered drinks, flirted, and in Fred's case, sat in the corner looking menacing. If one were to look closely, they would notice none of the men drank any alcohol, only water and iced tea.

The constantly guarded door was knocked on, and no one looked in that direction. At one point early in the night a large burly man arrived, gave Big Momma a note, and pulled a stool over to the door. The bouncer remained there the entire night, answering the door form time to time. Around eight 'o clock the door opened, and in walked the impeccably dress Don Meigion. Never one to look under dressed, the Don was wearing a costly silk suit, died a dark blue, with a matching hat and diamond tipped cane. These he handed to the Bouncer, who took them in his meetly hand and placed them against the wall by his stool. The Don walked across the room, smiling to a well known customer here, schmoozing with Big Momma there, and over all looking like a man made of pleasure. The nonames that sat and drank from his illegal wares tipped their hats to him, toasted to the underground Adonis, and smiled drunken smiles. All saw the man at face value, their benefactor in the illegal, and a man of many illicit virtues. But to those who knew him, such as Big Momma and the Bootleggers, his eyes betrayed the facade, and showed the devil that was this man of power. Without a glance in his fellow's direction, he proceeded to the back door, into the room Big Momma had appointed for 'Business.' He smiled at Big Momma and said "I will be right back, just a few things to attend to. Oh, and Davey, just keep playing that music, Your Brother's the only one I need." Peter, feeling uncomfortable but determined not to show it, walked nonchalantly to the door, and gave his Brother a smile. With a quick glance in Nazzareno's direction, he strode into the next room.

(Sorry for the late posting, you know how it is. Next is Catrux's turn then I promise some real free posting time)

[Arianwen Chandell]

(( Er.. so.. we are waiting on Lucy then?

Cause I was just about to post, when I realised.. I aint realy got anything TO post yet..

So.. whats happening? ))