Faith is fickle. This morning, Chicago lost our city leader Grin-07 to an attack from New York. It had been apparent for weeks that our  relationship with the city was not strong. But good faith chartered a course of inaction. We were content to co-exist. They, however, were not. It was a mistake on our part. There are moments when you realize that you cannot greet the world in the morning with anything less than ferocity, or by evening you will be destroyed; that the absence of practicality or tactical nous does not hinder an enemy whose only wish is to go out kicking and screaming.

After a wake-up call of bullets shot through my home but left me unharmed, it was with grief and anger that I learned the same could not be said of my boss. The considerable efforts of several cities united in purpose, however, now sees us settle into a position surrounded by our friends and allies, those who took up arms in support of Detroit and ourselves in our time of need. The same mistake will not happen again not just because we have had our eyes opened but because there is nowhere left for that brand of malcontent to fester. There is nothing left of Koyuki's New York, while The Grin Gang still stands, bruised and unforgiving. 

As the former right-hand of Grin-07's family, I will be taking over Grin Gang operations in The Loop and business will resume as normal. My right-hand, Grin-08, is young but knows the city as well as anyone and will assist me in carrying on the gang's legacy. Furthermore, I would like to reiterate that the standing offer to any Made Man and over who wishes to open a 5 man operation in The Loop will remain in effect. More details can be found on the poster HERE. It does not matter who you are, if you pay your tribute, you may stick your flag in the ground. 

The Loop will move forward grieving but undeterred. 

Nipper sees his dear friend standing proudly in the street. defiant and strong. Speaking with clarity and seeking no sympathy. Nipper approached his friend.

"Zapata. You have every right to stand here and speak for the fine city of Chicago. To speak as a victim and bemoan the unfair actions taken by a trusted city. But no, you stand here with nothing but forward looking clarity and strength. My friend, you are Chicago. Even if you are Mexican. The loss of Grin-07 can't be defined within the crude limitations of words. Just as the devastation to our friends FatherJack and the bigot Farage in Detroit. Vital people cut from us, a time for sadness and mourning for most but look at the two cities, both back into constructive action the very next day.

Your credentials as a revolutionary were admirable. I see you have stepped into the breech and become the man the city needed. I'm certain with young Grin-08 racing up beside you, the city will be stronger than ever."

He embraced his friend with a big strong hug. 

A sad day for sure yesterday. Seeing Chicago stand firm was impressive but not entirely surprising. I know The Loop will be in good hands with the crazy Mexican leading the way with the 8th of his name in tow. 

Good luck with taking the helm Zapata, not that you'll need it. Only one request; any chance of some golf clubs being created in Chicago?