Dean sat back in his chair as the rest of the city heads made themselves comfortable in his office. Amongst them were a few of the other crime heads from Chicago, Philadelphia and Saint Louis namely. He glanced over at his old friend Roman then back at the men and woman who made every step of this profitable venture possible.

"I really don't know where to begin. I figure, lets start with awarding those their dues for their exceptional work would be a great place to start wouldn't it?"

The meeting had commenced and a few stares were passed across the room. Only a few had the faintest idea as to what was about to happen.

"As we all know, the last few months have been a constant struggle of putting back the pieces in our lives. Can't say it has been the smoothest journey but it has been one that many of you have fought for since my time in power. We have seen the likes of flourishing cities, temperamental leaders, rogues and friendships so solid that it would have taken some pretty divine intervention to forge any form of separation."

"Today is going to mark the beginning of a new era. Something exciting for everyone, the game's changed and so have the players. There isn't room for those set in their old ways and I am sure we're going to see that within the next few months. Adaptation is key to anyone's survival, how many of you decide to adapt to this change will sure as hell outline each and every one of your successes."

The Dean picked himself up off his chair and made his way to Don RoRoG. The man stood up in front of his Godfather wondering where this was going.

"You have been with me from the very beginning of this campaign Don RoRoG. When all that was left of New York, its Godfather and 3 made men, you stood up to the task at hand and built a family around you that any man would be proud of, I'm sure. You stuck by me, you fought beside me and yes you remained sidelined when asked without question, without hesitation. Restraint is a quality any man should sport on his sleeves especially men that have the capacity to enforce such devastating power."

Dean reached for a well crafted jewelry box that lay upon his desk. It was rather small made of wood and had the Lions Den insignia carved into it. He then gently opened the box and removed an expensive ring that was then handed to Don RoRoG.

"Don no more RoRoG. Today is the day you have been given a gift that many men before have squandered, that a few have cherished and many more who only dream of. Today, you have ascended amongst the ranks of men and women who have made history in this thing of ours in one way or another. Today, you are a Godfather. You and your family have been given the go ahead by Godfather Roman and myself to take New Orleans as your new home. You have definitely earned this."

Making his way towards another young man, he thought to himself that this next act of gratification could not be expressed in words. He moved through his office and put his hand on the shoulder of a man who sat there in silence. It was quite odd to see him there so quiet, this was a man who was the fore front of entertaining conversations as if it was his job.

"Stand up Davy."

Davy Jones stood up in front of the Godfather of New York. It wasn't his Godfather even though he would argue otherwise.

"I've known your bloodline since the very beginning. Your fathers have bled by my side. They have died for mine and you have been no different in your approach. You are responsible for many of my successful campaigns. The day I let you leave New York was not only the day that marked you as the man who could stand on his own, but it showed many out there that being a Godfather was just a title given to us by another, that regardless of your rank, you were a Godfather amongst Godfathers. I am just going to make it official."

He gave Davy another ring much like the one that was given to Godfather RoRoG.

"Godfather Davy Jones, may your run in Philadelphia be everything you want it to be. Roman and I have watched you become a leader that was meant to set standards and surpass the goals that I myself have obtained. As if you couldn't get any bolder."

It was getting late, the sun began to set in New York city. It's funny how things get much brighter before the dark creeps in. The Dean amused by this began to draw the blinds over his office window shut.

"Now, there is one act in order to make all things right in this world, one that could not have been more fitting than this. Tony Corelli, you've got a bad habit. You have squandered millions and have earned millions back. Wonder how you would do playing with your own money?! That's right you heard me, your own money. In fact not only your own money but your own city with your own casino as well. Great idea, I am sure that's what you're thinking. Roman and I think so as well."

The Dean handed Tony a ring with the initials L.V. bolder than the city itself.

"Godfather Corelli, Las Vegas is all yours."

Roman was rather delighted with this result. Both The Dean and Roman often mused over a potential leader for Las Vegas. Couldn't have been a better choice.

"Now there is one more thing left and more one more person left to congratulate."

The Dean leaned at the foot of his desk whilst motioning for Don Whatsername to stand beside him.

"It's been quite the ride hasn't it? You all know my story. I could sit here all day and tell you how very proud of you all I am. The amount of work each and every one of you put in to make this all possible. When I took New York as my own, it was left with nothing. The aftermath of war left this city among the weakest compared to the others. There was no money, there were no friends and there was no hope. Look at us now. Untouchable."

"Never have I seen such dedication from people who asked of nothing more than being a part of a city that will never be forgotten. It has been nothing less than perfection."

"To quote the many mails I received from business partners in and out of this city, "New York lives a life on its own". "A well oiled machine, capable of thinking and working without the tyranny of its upper structure pulling on strings". "Dedication from a city with the ability to maintain the highest of standards and the ability to remove the opposition in a single wave."

"Having the support of Godfather Roman has made this not only possible, but very enjoyable. Don't for one moment think that any one of you can do this alone. Its how you make that connection with those around you that keeps the ball rolling, all the way from the top to very bottom."

"I won't take anymore of your precious time. So with that, I would like to introduce to you the woman who is going to be left with a job to do. A woman more than capable in my eyes to take my life's work and make it her own. Nothing like a woman's touch to make you feel at home and other things which I wont get into right now."

"Don Whatsername will be taking New York from me as her own after this meeting. I have decided to step down from this life of crime. I have nothing left to achieve nor do I have anyone standing in my way. I have made more money than any of you could possibly imagine but like everything else, I realize that I can't take my money with me to where I'm going."

Dean places the ring on Don Whatsernames finger. He then kneels down as he places a kiss on the ring she was just given.

"You have been a true gem in the time we've shared. I am glad to say that even though our bloodlines have always been at opposite ends of the barrel, you've put aside petty indifferences over war and spilled blood in my time of need. This city now needs you, these people now need you and I have no doubt that you will be there for them as you have for me."

The Dean walked over to his office window once more. He drew the blinds open this time as he stared over the lit night over the New York City park.

"To my hands, Underdog, Kimble, I couldn't thank either of you enough. That is why I have requested a little token of my appreciation that has been granted from those that now control a piece of everything that I had owned. To the crime heads that have put their dreams aside to live mine, I'll be praying that each and all of your dreams follow through as mine have. To each and every member of this damn fine city, I am leaving you all in the hands of someone just as, if not more, capable than I. No doubt that this is the city where dreams do come true because of each and every one of you… Thank you. To all those that have died for this day, I will be thanking you all in person very soon."

The room had fallen to silence as The Dean made his way out of his office escorted by Roman for the very last time.

TheDean I hardly know what to say sir. We have stood by each other for many moons now. The lessons that can be learned from your run as Godfather are innumerable. People will write books about you, I am sure of it. You rose the the brink of death to be the power in the land and to create a city people only dream of. It has been an honor, and a privilege to serve with you and Underdog as stewards of New York through your reign. It is an experience that I would not change for the world.

Now it is time to create another adventure.

What can I say, you were a friend to my father, a mentor to me and my brother. It was an honour to serve you, and to work with you and Kimble in creating New York in the imagine it now stands at after the war. To those who have earnt their promotions to the esteemed rank of godfather today, I have watched each of you grow in New York and create families each should be proud of.

As Kimble has said it is now time to create another adventure for us all.

As I stand here, I am filled with mixed emotions. Joy and sadness, I'm not sure which is greater at the moment. TheDean, youve been my mentor and my friend for awhile now. Everything vital I needed to learn about this way of life was taught to me by you. It saddens me to see you walk away, but I am thrilled to see you head off into the sunset with your head held high, surrounded by friends and family. You changed this world and I am glad that Ive been able to get to know you. Thank you for everything brother.

DavyJones, RoRoG, Whatsername, and TonyCorelli, good luck in your new roles. Each of you are incredible leaders and will flurish as you progress into your new cities. This is an amazing time and much celebration is called for!

Today is a cause for celebration and mourning. Today a man who I have fought side by side with finally steps away from this thing of ours. I was fortunate enough to be with the great city of New York for quite some time and I found a friend in TheDean that is rare indeed. He is a man who has done more for our way of life than many could even dream of doing. I am truly saddened to see him step away. The very least I can do is offer my thanks for three things. The first is thank you for believing in me and helping to teach me the ways. Secondly, thank you for the great honor and respect you've given to everyone from the lowest thug to every single crewleader, truly something we can all strive to match. Finally, Thank you for being a friend. We've spoken our words in other places so you know what I mean. Thank you from me and the Tribe for everything you've done.

Cherokee nods and takes a swig from his flask before taking his jacket from a bodyguard

Dean it has been incredible down my bloodline to watch and work with you.You have made a mark on this world that will always be a part of this place.A man who stood for what he belived in even if odds were against you you rose to the challenge.I think everyone has learned something from you from your run and also enjoyed this time as well.These roads you have paved will mark a new chapter and adventure for many I think i speak for many when I say thank you for showing us a amazing run and integrity.

I will remember this day as sad day in my whole life in these shores. Today man who showed me how to work and stay alive on these shores. Most important thing of all he was my friend. Today you are stepping away but you name and your work will bever be forgotten.

<em>Donnie leaves before anyone sees his tears</em>

This is quite a historic moment in Mafia Returns. And even though I have not had the honor to meet TheDean, I will remember this moment as my venture continues forth.

Dean, I'm speechless. You amazed my father and captured his attention and loyalty and naturally you did the same for me. It's been an awesome personal experience, not only being a spectator to the things you've accomplished, but also partaking in the rewards and priviledge of this legacy you've forged. You have an amazing story and it will continue to live on through the people you've inspired.

Sal sheds a tear and chokes up as he continues.

Thank you for being the best leader my bloodline has had the pleasure of serving.

The door closed behind Roman and Dean as they left the sanctum.  Roman could feel the air hit his neck as he heard it shut.  The two men walked shoulder-to-shoulder through the hall and into the cold winter night.  The car was waiting for them and the driver opened the door for Dean on the passenger side.  He then made his way around to the driver side, but Roman cut him off and shooed him off.

"I'll take it from here."

Roman got into the driver seat and hit the acceleration lightly.  Neither spoke for a while, instead Roman watched as Dean just stared out the window to the empire he built.  

"You did well."

Dean turned briefly to Roman and kept silent.

"In there with the guys, you did well."

Dean returned his gaze to the skyscrapers surrounding him.  Roman knew this was a man who stepped away at his peak, his mission complete.  The Chicago Godfather was trying  to get a read on how the Dean felt.  His face read that he was relieved with a mixture of sadness and pride.  Lights that were on in the buildings surrounding them splashed over the New York kingpin's face, only to be quickly shadowed over again by the night.  And so it was for the next hour, no words were spoken, everything they could say to one another had been done so in the weeks leading up to Dean's announcement.  This wasn't a time for words, but for reflection.  They had come into this together, their only goal to see the cities rebuild, profits grow, and Godfathers flourish.  Dean had come in and salvaged the world as they had known it from a twisted wreck into what promised to be a Golden Age.  

Their partnership had been a quirky one, and one that many people had tried to tear asunder.  Despite their best efforts Roman and Dean had remained steadfast in their mission:  Success, growth, profit.

The car passed out of New York City and headed down to New Jersey.  Roman caught Dean glancing in the rearview mirror at the skyline, a sight that may have been one of the most breathtaking in the world.  

Roman shifted his eyes to the Dean, "You ran the biggest city and crime syndicate we may ever see.  I am privileged to have been beside you all this time."

Dean cleared his throat and nodded with a smile.

The Godfathers pulled into a New Jersey airfield where a plane sat waiting to take Dean down to the warm weather.  Roman hadn't been south of Virginia, so when Dean said he was going to retire to Florida it took him by surprise.  Dean had mentioned that he had a friend from New York there.  Roman wasn't sure who he was referencing to, but if Dean was happy he would suck it up and not object to the retirement.

The men exited the car in unison as the airplane's propellers started churning.  Roman walked his running mate to the stairs leading into the plane.  There was a moment where they looked at each other.  This was it, and there were no words that that would ever sum up their shared experience.  Roman stuck out his hand as he felt his eyes water up only slightly.  He felt Dean grasp his hand and he watched as his friend disappeared into the plane.

Roman stepped back to the car as the propellers blew his trenchcoat wildly.  The pilot pushed the plane forward and before long they were in the air.  The end of one era, the beginning of another.  Roman slid back into his car and didn't look back, there was work to do.

This is an incredibaly dark day but also a bright one.

Farewell to the best Godfather my bloodline has had the pleasure to work for. You have shown there is a dignified way to leave this world of ours and made an example that we can all follow when we reach your level of achievement, if that is possible. I wish you all the best in your future endeavours and hope that any future bloodlines get tempted to join this world again, to check its not falling apart without you.

Congratulations and my devotion to our new Godfathers/mother, i wish you all the best in the future.

I have not known you for long sir but for the time I have been in your city I have had nothing but enjoyment. It has been great residing in your city and I wish you farewell. I enjoyed every minute of being in New York and I know that Whatshername will do well taking control of the city now that you are retiring. 

Also I would like to say Congratulations to all the new Godfathers and Godmother that have been given a great opportunity but I would also like to especially congratulate my leader RoRoG in obtaining the position of Godfather. I look forward to being under your rule in our new city. I know you and the rest of the Godfathers and Godmother are very capable of running these cities and anticipate the great things you will all do in your new positions.  

TheDean, it's a testament to your outstanding leadership that so many leaders with great potential stood in the wings behind you and in support of you for so long. They waited to have their chance to move up in the world, and now that time has come. It's an exciting and selfless act that you have stepped down so that others could have their chance. You are deserving of everyone's respect. Enjoy your time in the retirement home.

Michael over heard the speech from a distance away. The poor news that a Godfather was retiring from the life of crime, always sad to him. The accomplishment of such a feat was incredible to him. The feat that TheDean was succeed was beyond others. He built an empire comparable to the late Godfather Deimne. Both achievements between the two were admired by all. He had great respect for now retiring Godfather.

Godfather Dean, I bid you farewell on your retirement. You deserved it more than anyone else I know. The time and effort put into your empire is flawless. Your comrads must be proud and sad at the same. Proud that your empire is finally at the highest point it's ever been. And sad to lose you. You truely are one to admire.

Congrats on the new appointed Godfathers/Godmothers, I wish you best Dean on your retirement.

TheDean?

What can I say about him?

He was one of a kind! Will be remembered forever.

You couldn't have asked for a better boss! All his life he kept the family bonded and always looked out for his own, You wouldn't have found anybody coming into our territory, New York, messing around acting the thug.

You will be sorely missed by all even your connections outside of New York will be showing there respects,

Its a day full of happy and sad memories.

It is indeed a very sad day for all concerned.
There was always something so special about you sir, my father spoke highly of you always, he use to always tell his stories about how he first met your bloodline, good old MickeyRourke, a fine man indeed and you truly graced us with pride honour and respect just like he did.

Never will you be forgotten, replaced or ever become that man we "all once knew", you'll always be the Godfather that remains forever in our hearts.

Wow...A helluva ride, Godfather. Our bloodlines have known eachother, though we may not have been speaking recently, I have always admired you and respected you as my Godfather more than my friend. I will miss you, as I'm sure may others will, but a well deserved retire Nontheless.

I'm excited to see all of these New York captains get a chance at a city. I hope they all continue with their outstanding work. Congratulations to all.

Godfather Dean, you'll be missed. Enjoy your retirement!

All I can say is Thank You from the bottom of my rotten heart. I wouldnt even know where to begin. I wish you the best of luck in retirement Im sure Ill run into you sipping on a drink somewhere nice.  I owe you so much for the oppritunites I was given and I will remember how I got to where I am today.

You will be missed by many, Your name forever be remembered.

Sho snuffs out his cigarette before he began to speak

No words will ever express the gratitude, and respect I have for this man. He was a true mentor in times of need, helping me to flourish when I felt weak. I will cherish our time together and hold all your words of wisdom close to my heart. You not only built a city but a legacy. A name that will be remembered. May you enjoy your retirement, and join the likes of Marietta, ThomasRourke, and SpaceMountain. I trust they have saved you a seat at the table of retired GodFathers.

Lighting another cigarette he turns back to TheDean

You will be missed but never forgotten.

I am beyond speechless Dean. When the big war you spoke of was over, most of the people my mother had introduced me to had passed on. One man stood there with his doors open to me and I jumped at the opportunity to work with you in New York. I never imagined the months that followed could be as wonderful as they have been. We have had some great laughs and some wonderful conversations that I will cherish forever.

As happy as I am to gain the rank of Godfather tonight, seeing you leave is very hard. I know you will enjoy your time away from this thing of ours and deserve to go out on the top as you have. I hope if you get word of the happenings in this world I can bring a smile to your face as you have done to mine so many times over.

Thank you for this opportunity and for everything you have done for me personally, the city of New York and Mafiosi all over our eight cities.