Declan Byrne

[healingxinxhell]

bethany could never back down from a good challenge. her last interaction with declan was interesting and now interacting with him, considering she was a walker who had been away for a long period of time, would be entertaining. she wandered around the tables until she found an empty seat and knew how to play gambling game, what she wasn't expecting was him placing a chip down in front of her; money was never an issue for her. a coy smile spreads on her lips. "that's very kind of you, mr. bryne." taking his suggestion, she places the chip down on black. "happy valentine's, from a walker." she whispers back before pulling away, placing a hundred dollar bill on the table for chips, cerulean eyes glance up at him.

[itallbyrnesdown]

Bethany Walker, the unknown variable in Declan's plans. He seemed to be running into her often as of late. "I do try to be compassionate, especially during these trying times." He collected her hundred dollar bill, replacing it with a stack of chips. "Good luck with the tables." He paused, offering her a smirk, "Some friendly advice for you. Your family hasn't been very lucky lately Ms. Walker. I'd perhaps suggest you stick to safe bets."

[kercsene]

THE STRATA / FT. DECLAN ( @itallbyrnesdown )

They had a past, sort of, as Olivia was once a fixture in the Byrne household. Being Maeve's best friend and Liam's girlfriend when they were younger meant that she wasn't a stranger to the two older Byrne, even if the age difference meant it was more in passing than anything else. Olivia knew Declan would be here tonight and not just because of the tables he was renting to the event. His family was on the rise in town and showing up to these things came with that notoriety. And with the current whisperings in town, not showing up would made people think he had something to hide. Olivia had to give it to him, it required a certain bravado to still show up when part of the town wondered if he was behind David's accident. "Just the man I was looking for," she said as she swiftly followed him into a private room. "I think we should talk."

[itallbyrnesdown]

Declan raised an eyebrow, surprised to be so directly approached by one of the Walkers. "Oh, me? Are you sure? I don't recall being a Byrne you usually associate with Olivia." He was curious what Olivia would want with him. He could guess it had something to do with the rumors about his involvement with David Walker's accident. Might as well find out. "You're quite lucky, I seem to have some time to spare." He walked into the private room and leaned against the wall, arms crossed. "What is it exactly that we should talk about, hmm?"

[gabrielaxruiz]

she leans into his touch, turning her head slightly to kiss the inside of his wrist. the space between them is closed, gingerly placing a palm on his chest.

"i might find that a little biased, but coming from you, i'll take it." gabriela leans up to place a soft kiss to his lips. a strong part of her wanted to suggest they leave, but she knew he was needed tonight.

observing each other through functions was something they had perfected over the year, a smile flashed here and there, a hand brushing against another as she passed him. "i can't wait for the night to be over and i can be in your arms." she confessed, knowing she would end up back at his home. "how are the tables doing?"

[itallbyrnesdown]

Declan smiled into the kiss, always pleased when he could give Gabriela affection. They'd become good at keeping their secret, but the more sentimental side of him wished they could be together openly. "Only a few more hours of all this grandstanding then we can have our own Valentine's day back at mine." If his absence wouldn't be immediately suspicious Declan would've ditched the whole event and spent the evening with Gabriela.

"The tables are doing well, there will be a few winners I'm sure but ultimately the house always wins. I'll make a nice little profit from tonight."

[itallbyrnesdown]

Love is Like Rolling Dice

Location: Gambling Tables

Open to Everyone

Declan stood behind Lady Luck's gambling tables monitoring the action. There were seasoned gamblers he recognized from the casino sitting beside locals who'd never be caught dead in one of his establishments. Truly an interesting crowd. He noticed a new player sit at one of the roulette tables and offered them a poker chip. "First bet is on the house, happy Valentines from Lady Luck." He smiled and leaning in close whispered "if you're playing roulette, I'd bet on black, it's landed on red the last three rounds."

[lawunabiding]

LOVE IS IN THE AIR LOCATION OPTIONS

001. lingering by the bar & listening to the live music 002. watching patrons get temporary tattoos applied 003. outdoors by the carriages and hot chocolate

part of maeve wanted to call this entire event a joke - an expensive show of goodwill, perfectly timed when tensions were ready to rupture. the business association somehow even managed to get both families to participate in order to make the peace more believable. but the uncertainty was still there, simmering, waiting for one wrong move to turn this lovely valentine's gala into yet another battle waged in this never ending feud.

still...there was another part of maeve who grew up alongside most of these people, knew their stories and held memories with them. to see them gathered together in good spirits brought a small smile to her lips that refused to disappear. this camaraderie was what it meant to live in oxbow - what a shame her family damned them all, just the same as the walkers.

" maybe this wasn't such a bad idea, after all. " maeve smiled, something genuine but small, as if she wouldn't let herself completely give in to the merriment. " we might even be able to make it through the night in one piece for once. "

[itallbyrnesdown]

"I appreciate your optimism little sister." Declan approached her, holding out a cup of hot chocolate. While he was still preoccupied with the drama brewing between himself and the Walker clan Declan was hoping to have one night of peace. It would be good to blend in, be just another businessman for a night.

Holding up his right hand like he was testifying in court Declan began, "I, Declan Byrne promise to not instigate any trouble tonight that may result in you gaining a new mountain of paperwork to tackle and/or any new court appearances. Consider it my Valentines Day gift to you."

[gabrielaxruiz]

location: strata - life is in the air who: @itallbyrnesdown

it was hard to see him mingle throughout the event, watching him supervise over the tables he had from the casino, having sat down at the blackjack one to be closer to him for a few hands. there were too many eyes in one place and she swore she could feel the tension between the walkers and the brynes.

catching his attention, she nods her head off to the side waiting a beat to make her way in the direction. there was a small room where they could slip into, giving them a moment together. it didn't take much effort to get a key for it.

gabriela waits in the dark room, the shine from the moon illuminating the small space, turning when she hears the door open.

"lock it behind you." her tone hush. "did anyone tell you how handsome you look." she smiles.

[itallbyrnesdown]

Declan had an eye on Gabriela since she entered the venue. She was stunning, and while it would be foolish, downright dangerous for her, he wished he could openly approach her. He was relieved when she sat at one of his tables. He was downright giddy when she gave him the subtle hint to follow her to a small room away from the main event.

Leaving one of the Clovers in charge of the tables, Declan made his excuses and slipped into the room behind her.

Declan grinned as he slid the door lock in place. "As you wish." He moved into her space, bringing a hand to her cheek. "I've been complimented by others but yours is the only opinion I care about. Were you aware that you're the most beautiful woman in Oxbow?"

[liamxbyrne]

Location: outside of last call

Open: everyone

Nicotine creates an immediate sense of relaxation, so people smoke in the belief it reduces stress and anxiety. Liam hardly smoked, but maybe once or twice a year - he felt the urge to do so. He was alone leaned up against the wall of the bar, his beer in his free hand and the other hand with a lit cigarette. The smoke serving like a shadow around him on this particular night. Thoughts roamed his brain regarding David Walker. Another death. This town was really poisoned. He wouldn't mourn him directly, but it was more so of Liam preparing himself what was to come. Perhaps that was why he was grasping on to the silence - the eerily calm before the storm. Until he heard footsteps. "Afraid I only have one of these if you were hoping to bum one." Not surely confident that was what they were wanting or not. Maybe silence was what they craved considering the bar was obviously packed. People had their own ways to escape reality after all.

[itallbyrnesdown]

The news of David Walker's death put Declan on edge. Not outwardly of course, but inwardly he was already preparing for accusations and hasty revenge. The assault at Lady Luck had taught him the Walker camp would not wait long to lash out. While he was confident no one could touch him directly, he worried for his family. It was fortuitous then that he spotted his little brother smoking outside of The Last Call. Leaning against the wall next to Liam Declan removed a cigar from the case he kept in his jacket. "I prefer cigars little brother, but I would appreciate a light."

[healingxinxhell]

curiosity pulled at bethany. the rumours circulating about what happened to her father regarding the accident had her next course of action walking into the enemies territory. a confidence that many might find their undoing, it was a trait that made her who she was.

she felt the eyes land on her when she stepped into the den, shoulders back and head held high, cobalt eyes scan the room until they found him. long strides shorten the distance between them and she sinks down into the plush seat beside him.

"i wasn't expecting this place to be so." a small pause. "empty." her head turns to look at him, expression void from her features. "have nothing better to do?"

[itallbyrnesdown]

"Empty?" Declan chuckled. "No, I think I'd call it exclusive." He took another drag, lazily letting the smoke trail from his mouth before looking over at his new companion. "It seems the star in the Walker family should be used to such VIP treatment, no?"

Declan was curious about the Walker woman's motives. Was she here to accuse him of causing her father's accident? Was she here to broker peace after the Walker cowboys' messy affair at Lady Luck? Bethany Walker hadn't really been a factor in his Oxbow plans due to her distance. He wondered if she would become a new player on the board. It was all very interesting.

"Not to be insulting Ms. Walker, but with your family's current ideas about me and mine, I am curious why you'd approach me so directly." He leaned forward, maintaining direct eye contact with her, "What is it that you want?"

[mancandykings]

Tom Hardy in Legend (2015)

[itallbyrnesdown]

Not about to see your light But if you wanna find hell with me I can show you what it's like 'Til you're bleeding

[mensource]

Tom Hardy as Alfie Solomons PEAKY BLINDERS | 2.02

[archive058382734]

shiv'd heard the news. of course she had, who hadn't? first a suspicious car accident, and then an even more suspicious death. it was bound to create quite the buzz, and nothing a few optics and damage control would deafen either --- no, this was far beyond a tango of PR and solemn statements, more delegated actions must come out of this death, as tragic as it may be...people would talk, they would question. declan had to know that much. at least that's what the eldest byrne woman figured when she dipped into seat, taupe nails wrapped around black leather valentino clutch and crimson lips pursed into something akin to a melancholic smirk. "i didn't expect to be here...so i guess we're both surprised." head tilts, looking over her dear brother as she takes a sip of gin from half empty crystal and a soft sigh settled shoulders. "so, how fucked are we thinking this situation is? i mean --- first a car accident...and then a death. don't even think they've confirmed cause of death yet." she spoke matter-of-factly, an edge of cool undertone in her voice. almost as if this entire situation annoyed her...and to some degree, it did. would the byrne family be under official suspicion for this? likely not --- but in the court of public opinion, well.

[itallbyrnesdown]

Declan placed his cigar down and turned to look at his sister. He was relieved to see it was a member of family joining him. And he appreciated Shiv's keen mind in times like these.

Declan chuckled. "Oh the situation pretty damn fucked. And I, dear sister, am pretty damn annoyed." He took another drag of his cigar before continuing. "The Walkers have decided that I, their favorite boogeyman, am the cause of all their misfortune. I'm sure that extends to the old man's death." The fact that the Walkers had the nerve to outright cause havoc at his casino deeply annoyed Declan. "It seems they've never heard of innocent until proven guilty in that family. They also apparently haven't heard of subtlety either, with the assault at Lady Luck."

He sighed, "I can't let those fools go unpunished. But while I'd love to pay Cooper Walker a personal visit, something more refined is in order. It's a shame honestly. You know how much I love taking matters into my own hands." Declan wanted nothing more than to teach the Walker family a terrible lesson, but he knew that eyes would be on him. As the Walker family's most obvious enemy he couldn't go causing violence with a suspicious death in town. The rumor mill would go wild.

"What do you suggest we do next?"

[illusoryfury-deactivated2024041]

○

logan leaned back, a wry smile playing on his lips as he deftly avoided declan's attempt to draw him into the discussion about his family's leadership. "well now, declan, you've got a real knack for stirring the pot, i'll give you that. leading the walker clan, i reckon it's a tough job, like herding cats in a thunderstorm. cooper's got it covered, though. i'm just the charming cousin with the good looks and the quick wit. leave the heavy thinking to the big man, that's my motto." as logan responded to declan's taunts with a snarky tone, a mixture of amusement and mild irritation danced in his eyes. the raised eyebrow and smirk suggested a confidence in his own wit, enjoying the banter but not letting declan's provocations go unnoticed. logan's smirk deepened as he took a slow, deliberate drag from his cigar, exhaling a plume of smoke with nonchalant ease. logan's body language and the way he handled the cigar reflected a man in control, unbothered by the provocations, and enjoying the moment with a touch of rebellious charm. the smoke lingered, a silent testament to his defiance and unwillingness to let declan's words get under his skin. cooper was fiercely protective of his family's legacy. logan couldn't help but acknowledge that cooper's decisions were driven by a deep sense of responsibility and a commitment to the walker name. declan, on the other hand, seemed to be the kind of trouble that had a knack for finding its way to their doorstep. he couldn't help but notice a subtle shift in the atmosphere. the playful banter hung in the air, but underneath, there was a growing awareness of the gravity of declan's words. the smirking facade faded for a moment as logan's eyes locked onto declan's, sensing the weight behind the veiled threats. he took another drag from his cigar, exhaling slowly before breaking the silence. "ah, the grand finale of a blood feud! picture this: a dramatic showdown at high noon, tumbleweeds rolling by, and an epic soundtrack playing in the background. the wind tousling our hair as you and cooper exchange cutting remarks like modern-day cowboys. and just when it seems like you've reached the climax, confetti cannons burst forth, and a marching band appears from nowhere! ta-da! the feud to end all feuds, with a grand finale deserving of a broadway musical!" he chuckled, shaking his head in mock seriousness. "but seriously, declan, i'm not sure our lives need that level of drama. maybe we should consider a more sitcom-style resolution, with a laugh track and a group hug at the end. what do you think?" the lighthearted tone aimed to highlight the absurdity of taking a blood feud too seriously.

[itallbyrnesdown]

Oh, Logan was fun. Declan smiled, delighted by the snark of his companion. It wasn't often people felt the confidence to speak to Declan with such...disrespect? lack of fear?, whichever it was he was enjoying himself. "Another sensible opinion from the charming one in the family. Why bother with the big business? It's certainly more fun to watch Cooper struggle under the weight of all that legacy. I'm certainly amused."

Declan knew that on paper, the family feud was a touch ridiculous. But he was bound to the principle of the thing. His family had been wronged, and he'd been raised knowing it was his responsibility to get vengeance for that wrong. This was not something Declan knew how to let go. Nor did he want to. He was not a man built for peace. "As wholesome as that sounds, I'm not really a sitcom guy. I prefer a good thriller." He took another drag of his cigar. "I will tell you this Logan, I don't do things unprovoked. If your family left what's mine alone, I'm sure we'd have less problems. It's not my fault Cooper gets all huffy when I, very legally mind you, purchase land near the ranch."

[lawunabiding]

" true. but i wouldn't mind a bonus, " she suggested with an innocent smile. there was a time when maeve was entirely selfless. she volunteered her time for a good cause, despite it causing her to take an extra year to get her degree; she donated what little money she had left after bills, and worked for a criminally low salary at a nonprofit. but now? oxbow did what it does best - it corrupted her. the family's money meant she could fill her apartment with expensive things and shop for designer clothes. no wonder her fiancee left her. oxbow's maeve and the east coast's maeve were not the same.

she let out a huff and narrowed her eyes at her brother. " exciting is another word for it. i would use assault, personally. " she chuckled. " no you don't - you love it when i clean up your messes, and i love cleaning. " maeve leaned back in her chair with hands folded in her lap. " i'm fine, don't worry about me. how's the casino holding up? everyone healing okay? "

[itallbyrnesdown]

Declan smiled and relaxed in his chair. "Duly noted little sister. A bonus shouldn't be a problem." Money was plentiful for Declan ever since Lady Luck took off. He'd make sure to buy his sister something nice. He'd have to find out what designers she liked nowadays, maybe a new bag. A car perhaps. She did put up with a lot from him.

Declan placed a hand over his heart in mock outrage. "Now now, I have never been convicted of assault in my life. I am just a simple businessman. It's certainly not my fault if someone coincidentally needs a trip to a hospital after meeting with me." He paused letting some of his irritation at the Walker cowboys attack show. "Everyone is fine. More property damage than injuries honestly. I would be more worried about those cowboys. I have a sneaking suspicion they might find themselves with a turn of bad luck soon."

[salromero-deactivated20240228]

"No, no... I like the alien theory," Sal laughed, pointing lazily at Declan with his fork. "Sure would spice things up, anyway. Never imagined myself in an E.T. situation, but y'know, I'll try anything once." He clinked the metal utensil against his cheap porcelain plate, shaking his head.

"Not so much, not with this work." He paused, wondering how much he wanted to get into it this man, if it was even worth the effort... hell, why not. "Had my fill of those moments workin' as a Ranger, if I'm honest. Glad to have left 'em behind."

Declan deflected the question about the casino, and Sal made a mental note. "Right, I'm sure. None of my business anyway. Just curious. Seems they got steam to spare."

[itallbyrnesdown]

Declan took a sip of his coffee before replying. "Wouldn't that be something? Oxbow Ridge becomes the new Roswell...I could add a whole alien themed room to the Casino!" Declan chuckled, envisioning alien tourists flocking the town. "Might be good for this town to be known for ET phoning home." He sighed, suddenly feeling a twinge of irritation at his lot in life as the arbiter of his family's legacy. "Would be better for business than all this 21st century Hatfields versus McCoys shit."

Declan knew he didn't have to continue the family feud. Hell, he could pack up his buckets of gambling money and go start again somewhere new. Vegas? LA? Ireland? nowhere was out of reach. But his role was to rule Oxbow Ridge and dethrone the Walkers. He knew this, and most days accepted it, but sometimes even for him, the thought of leaving was appealing.

"It's certainly a less dangerous job than being a Ranger that's for sure. Must be nice to have a little less chaos in your day to day.' Declan offered Sal a wry smile, "Although if we do have aliens, you may be in for some excitement."

Declan chuckled, "Cowboys always have steam to blow. Usually they have a touch more sense than to do it in my place of business."

[dan-hart]

Interesting. 

A purely coincidental and erroneous tick to his paranoia. Seemed unlikely given the recent events of Oxbow. He had to wonder if Declan was lying.  

He leaned forward to stub out his cigar, suddenly in no mood to play along. With the events of the last few weeks, he was getting swept up in the wave. He was plagued with the idea that his thoughts were not his own, but the influence of hushed whispers around him. 

“I’m not here to have an opinion.” 

He leaned forward. “But I would say it’s not always useful to play with fire. Wouldn’t you say?” 

[itallbyrnesdown]

Declan shrugged, "What a shame, I would've enjoyed a good assessment." It would've been amusing to hear what Dan thought of the Byrne clan, but oh well, Declan would find his amusement elsewhere. He took another lazy drag of his cigar considering the man's words.

Declan grinned, a touch of mischief in his glaze, "Oh friend, in all my years, I haven't met a situation that a touch of fire hasn't helped. One just has to be creative in it's application."

[itallbyrnesdown]

You should see me in a crown I'm gonna run this nothing town