After taking a few days to visit the cities, walk the streets, chat with the kin of so many fallen Mafioso, Al was no closer to understanding this world.  Old thoughts and frustrations were brought to the surface once again after once again being faced with the reality of how it works, and the sobering reality that change is needed, but how…

“I come to you all today looking to hear your thoughts.  As I prepare to vent some of my frustrations, I encourage all of you to take a step back and give serious thought to this before you do the same.”

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts and light a cigarette, Al looks at the gathering crowd before continuing. 

“This world is not as it seems to the vast majority of the hard working, dedicated and loyal members spread out across this land.  Every crew, every family, is home to so many earners with hopes and dreams for themselves and for their kin.  Our ancestors all land on these shores bright eyed, anxious and hopeful, that someday, they will prove themselves, laying a foundation for the next generation of their new bloodlines.  With that, generation after generation build on that foundation, learning how to do business and how to build strength for themselves and for their families.  But these new additions to this world learn quickly, that the most important thing they can build is relationships.  Early on, the opportunities offered them are appreciated, the apparent show of respect and trust leave them hopeful for their future and that of their descendants.”

Removing his coat and laying it on the table along with his hat, Al continues 

“We all die and many of us encourage our offspring to continue building with the belief that their lives will be better than ours, that opportunities will be plentiful if they learn from their parents mistakes and continue to grow these relationships.  They believe hard work will change things and that the decisions made by the most powerful and wealthy members of our world will be impacted by the presence of these up and coming mobsters who show so much promise and potential.”

“Sadly, this is not how it works.  Before I continue I want to be clear.  I mean no disrespect to those select people who have opened doors for me, but, without a doubt, hard workers with short bloodlines are given hope and nothing more.  They are included in meetings they didn’t know exist.  They are given trust from their leaders, assigned the responsibility of being a LH, or possibly RH.  Those who truly excel at building their own strength may even get financial support in the form of BGs or occasional credit transfers.   But there is a harsh reality to this.  These are forms of control, not respect.  There is a clear divide between “us” and “them”.  When the population crashes, as it has over the past week, all the names in bold or underlined are the same and all those who were praised for their hard work 7 short days ago, have been put back in their place, "we" are earners and nothing more.  If the cities swell once again and “they” run out of old friends to put in positions of power, a select few of “us” will be offered a token once again.  And the cycle continues.”

Taking a sip of water, he looks across the crowd, seeing familiar faces nodding in agreement.

“Wealth is the problem.   All of our hard work, all of that money sent up in tribute of our families…. Where does it go?  If you have proven to be proficient at training your gun, do they offer you millions for your own protection?  Do they assist you by providing perks that will accelerate your growth?  In rare cases they do, but the vast majority of the time, all of you hard work, and all of your financial assistance, gets you put on a kill list because you are a threat to “their” game and your money gets banked in the form of credits, so they can continue running things any way they please.   The excuse given is that trust needs to be earned.  That is the justification coming from groups who just slaughtered each other after backroom conversations where they insult and belittle one another.  They can’t even trust themselves.”

“But wealth of knowledge is just as dangerous in this world.  Do you want to live longer and get stronger?  Don’t tell anyone about your gun.  NOBODY.  “They” will praise you for your growth, and let their friends know where you are every step of the way.  When they see a potential threat growing, you will die.  We are needed for their game, but we are not invited to their game.”

“So do I believe that everyone in this world is terrible?  No, not at all.  In fact I believe I have met some great people who are capable of putting their own ambition and drive aside in an attempt to support a young, strong and interested gangster.  They are out there, but they are few and far between and more importantly, they can’t save you.  They may defend you, or suggest your name for a position in a strong crew, but even your own Godfather or Godmother, can’t made decisions without approval from “them”.  This world is not 6 cities, or 18 districts.  It is not 6 families or 18 crews.  Your leaders are rarely able to focus on your protection, because they are worried about their own and that of their friends in other families, other cities. 

“Omerta.   A word that is thrown around in every HQ in every district.  And a fucking joke.”

“There is nothing I want more than to be a part of a strong, secure family who works together, has fun together and trusts each other.  But this is not possible if we allow a dozen Mafioso to control this land from shore to shore.  Their back room deals, hoarding of cash and willingness to wipe out entire cities as they see fit has not only been well documented, but revealed in the form of private conversations in recent days.”

Until this changes.  Until rules are in place that would allow a group of young gangsters who are lacking finances but rich in ambition are permitted to set up their own crew in one of the many empty cities or districts without being labeled as “rogue” and wiped out in their first hours.  Until there is an opportunity for them to learn and build something that is “their own”, this world will remain “us” and “them”.”

With that, Al steps down from his soapbox, puts on his bullet proof vest and walks through the crowd, listening to the whispers of so many people who live in fear of having an opinion, hoping they take this opportunity to speak.

Meeseeks listened intently to Big_Al's speech, and several points struck him. Meeseeks though to himself -- 'I'm Mr Meeseeks'

Hmm this is quite a speech, and I think there are some good points in here. 

As a general thing I think its natural to see the same family lines rising to the top. I'm not so sure its as simple as us versus them. Some family lines simply put in a lot of work consistently, and as a result are routinely given opportunities to lead. After all, when Meeseeks ancestors came into existence, he had no friends. Through hard work, some of Mr. Meeseeks ancestors have been afforded great opportunities.

In my experience, there are always leaders who are amazing and enjoy developing talent...and there are always those who only care about your family history. 

That being said, there is a frustration surrounding serial leaders. The Meeseeks line took a long break but when I popped into existence again, it was generally the same families in control, reliving the same family beefs they have been fighting for generations. As evidenced by those most amazing logs...a lot of life and death decisions are based on decidedly non wordly events. That can be very frustrating indeed. It used to be that the coffee shops separated normal mobsters from the elite. Now the real business is done even further in space. 

The other interesting aspect I think are these credits. It used to be that death was an equalizer. Sure you could ship your cash off if you foresaw your death, but if you got caught by surprise a lot of wealth would evaporate. Now you can convert cash to credits, and save your money risk free. I am genuinely curious to know the impact they have had on the economy.

Nods heads to everything said and claps, then begins to speak.

"You do make some very good points sir. Personally I think the time you are waiting for is coming and its happening in New York. New York is rebuilding on its own and we are going to see some new faces in power." It's not going to happen over night and it will take an army of people earning as you said to make it happen but I do think that we will finally see some change  in out little world of ours."

Turns to Meeseeks 

"And to address you points sir. You are right there are some blood lines that understand how this world works and are good leaders. But without change we will fall right back into the folly of our ancestors and if  the same bloodlines continue to rise it will lead to long term grudges and wars. I think the economic issue is less of a problem then the fact that few new faces are seen in leadership throughout all of the cities"

The words "It's time for the truth" resonated by Tositos. She spots an empty milk crate tossed on the sidewalk. Se wipes off what appears to be remnants of blood and body parts and takes a seat. While reaching in her backpack  for an apple and a bottle of water, she noticed if it were not for this guy Big_Al speaking,  a mouse could be heard taking a piss.  Comfortably situated, she directs her undivided attention  to Big_Al's speech. As Big_AL was finishing up his final thoughts, Tostitos stood up and applauded this honorable man. 

Tostitos spots Big_AL waking away the opposite direction from where she was standing. She catches up to him and puts out her hand.

"Hey Mr. that was one hell of a speech. You were spot on! I personally thank you for coming to the crowd with such poise and dignity to express what has been the obvious for some time now." "I got to tell you the idea you had in your closing speech will not remedy the problem that those categorized as "them" control and initiate to the "Us". I update or possibly remind Big_Al  of  the LA project which was initiated by "Them" and all they (US) were meant to be was sitting ducks to be used as targets.  So you see something more needs to take place to ensure all can enjoy the benefits of hard work and dedication.

It said NY is a fresh start but take a long hard look and it is nothing short but the same circus running the show.

Big_Al judging by the silence, for the most part the truth has fallen upon deaf ears.

When i first arrived on these shores, i found very similar names to past family journals, when approached by a man named Thomas from Las Vegas, he asked am i new and i said no, but i see not much has changed as the same bloodlines of past were in charge.  The simple response was that i must be a troublemaker for my observation so at that we parted ways.

The fact is though it does seem a repetitive cycle that robs the motivation out of many after repetitive family deaths.   The last few days we have seen lists of people who could be trouble published from private logs, while others behave in exactly the same way but is counted as fine but maybe that's the joys of power if no one can stop the wrong it must be right.

I can understand the constant turmoil at the top with the backstabbing or backstabbing before being back stabbed and yes we must do what we can to survive; i can also justify an experienced hand to help guide through such transitions.  Is unfortunate for many though who work their ass off, to know for now it is for nought even if from an experienced bloodline who has never had the chance.

I was at another conversation recently just listening in which mentioned, personality we mix with on Skype Street, OOC avenue and Whatsapp Way to be the best way to move into leadership or a power position unfortunately.   Although i can understand the need to combine trust, hard work and experience, if newer bloodlines know is nothing there for them, why stick around?

It's okay to say rank up, work hard, do something different or do something about it, but are these not the same words that have been preached for a long time.  Is the system that has problems it seems not the people, as change people, same system seems to come into operation.

Spikey, walks up and reads the latest since her Mother spoke. Spikey all that if you ain't being taxed it is solely due to the fact your CL was funded by "them" and they assume tributes will surpass taxing.

Micheal stands and listens to Big_Al and the others speak, before deciding that it's time to put in his two cents, whether they like it or not.

"Listen Al, I don't mean to disrespect, but if you're just realizing this fact now, you've obviously not been looking far. This organization is about the haves and have nots, always has been, always will be. In the time my bloodlines been here, I've seen now 2 groups of power come into their own, control the Council of Godfathers, run every city coast to coast."

He turns to the crowd, addressing everyone

"Need I remind you all, of the chaos, anarchy, and outright stupidity that occurred when God brought down wrath upon the Group That Shall Not Be Named, and exterminated them and their bloodlines from the face of the earth!"

He gives people a moment to think upon that time before continuing
 

"But do you wanna know something Al? "Them" have always been there. It's Czylharz. It's always been Czylharz. The only time it hasn't been them is when it was the Banditos running bloody everything. Even The Six Digits of death, or whatever we call them now since we can't say their names without the wrath of God, were Czylharz men. I'm a Bandito myself and I've worked with Czylharz men, I've worked under Czylharz himself, the point of the matter is, they look out for themselves first, and anyone who isn't second, and frankly I couldn't blame them a damn bit."

"That's how it worked under They Who Shall Not Be Named, that's how it worked under the Banditos, That's how it worked under Czylharz, and that's how it'll work 2 years from now when some new group takes the lead, because that's the way your supposed to run things. You don't just leave potential enemies in command of large sections of influence and power, you take everything for yourself and your comrades, it's common freaking sense."

Micheal takes a moment to collect this thoughts, lighting a cigarette whilst mumbling under his breath.

"You want your freaking bogyman? Well there it is. You want to know who's the true members of the Chilled Heart Gang, well here they are."

Micheal throws a faded news article to Al (https://mafiareturns.com/comm/thread/423815)

"They control everything now, have been since Cantillion and the Farm back in New York, probably even earlier depending on who you talk to. They're Polish by blood, funny enough 'Czylharz' is a misspelling of 'Czy lekarz', which is asking if there's a doctor. Talk about the ironic statement of the millennium right there."

Micheal takes another drag of his cigarette

"So with that information, how about you put a name to 'Them'. That's always a good start."

With that, Micheal takes his leave, walking through the crowd whilst finishing his cigarette.

As he walks through the crowd, Al can hear private conversations, he is stopped by several people who want to discuss ideas and vent their own frustrations.  It seems this view is shared by many.

“Judging by the comments here today and the numerous messages stuffed into my pockets as I walked through the crowd, it is obvious that I am not alone.  I appreciate those of you who were willing to stand up and speak here today and those of you who shared your thoughts privately, your words and thoughts have helped me greatly”

Turning to Micheal_Valois, Al offers him a cigarette, lighting one for himself.

“Micheal, I do not take anything you said as disrespect, in fact, it further proves my point.  Those with a long bloodline will know the names, but I’m trying to open the eyes of the young, not the old.  Putting a name to “them” doesn’t matter to us, the future for our kin does.  Nepotism has brought down many an organization and seeing it run rampant is something that I’m sure has happened time and time again.  We all see those leaders with a questionable work ethic, those who make no attempt to show recruits the way of this world and those who seem to always have a new earning target, limiting our ability for personal growth.  This is as much about individual leaders as it is about groups.”

“As tatsumi said, the common response when frustrations grow is “do something different or do something about it”. So, I’m not standing here today yelling “CHANGE IT!”, I’m simply asking, “how do we change it”?  How do you change an entire culture?  We are not allowed to build the individual strength required to defend ourselves against the most powerful, and even if we managed to do so, we don’t have the finances to hold on to that power for long.  So just like this situation took time to develop, it will take time to change.” 

Turning to look to the crowd once again, a smile coming across his face.

“This crowd is where it starts.   We make public some of the things we are told to keep to ourselves.  They pick and choose when Omerta applies to our lives and we will too.  Before we join a crew, if we don’t know the leadership, we contact multiple members and ask questions.  If you are one of “us” and someone contacts you, you answer every question you can.  You share your opinions, your crew tribute expectations, the support they offer you and the opportunities you’ve seen for those with short bloodlines.  If you know of another leader who you feel is better, you tell them where you wish you could be.  You help the next generation make smart decisions.  Forcing some form of accountability is the first step.”

Turning to look at the high rise buildings behind him.

“The great leaders, the best we currently have, will not only embrace this, they will encourage it openly.  They will tell potential recruits these details before inviting them to the crew.  They will take pride in being the type of leader who respects hard work and that reputation will quickly build a loyal following that will fight for them generation after generation.  As their families grow with the best young gangsters we have and their strength will build”

“Those leaders who object to this communication likely have reason to.”

Before once again stepping down, Al ads one last thought.

“If you are the young kin of someone who died last week and are unhappy with your situation, ask questions now, find a place where you fit and truly want to be, and at any cost, get there.  Do not support someone you do not trust.”

Rory leant against a street lamp, carefully listening to the words been spoken. The man spoke with a level of clarity not usually afforded to the angry people of the world. Rory assumed that this man felt aggrieved by the death of his father, as many people often are. Allowing the man to finish speaking, Rory decided to share his thoughts on the matter.

Firstly Big_Al, thank you for bringing such a well reasoned debate to our streets. I’d like to offer you my slant on the way our world is and perhaps, If it adds context, the recent events. One of the first points I’d like to pick up on is

“But there is a harsh reality to this.  These are forms of control, not respect.  There is a clear divide between “us” and “them”.”

This may have been the case at certain points in time, but I must say that I disagree with this sentiment. I know that here in Detroit we very much value all of our members. I make no secret of the fact that I would not be here without them and that is a solid fact. None of the current leaders are interested in a ‘us’ and ‘them’ divide. Ultimately there is a lot of rebuilding to do and that kind of attitude benefits nobody.

“gets you put on a kill list because you are a threat to “their” game and your money gets banked in the form of credits, so they can continue running things any way they please.”

This statement holds a little more truth, but in a much different vein to which you have mentioned. Since the dawn of time the people at the top have run things the way they see fit, this is the right which they have earned. Our society thrives on meritocracy, I believe it does at least. If it did not, where would we be? The recent wars have led to the deaths of many people, whole cities in fact, who may have been a ‘threat’. Ask yourself this.. Had you been in the position of the Godfathers who declared war on Las Vegas and Chicago, who knew that there were plans been made to kill members of our cities I might add.. Would you have sat back and waited for them to start shooting before taking action? I don’t believe you would.. If I am wrong, then more fool you.

“Do you want to live longer and get stronger?  Don’t tell anyone about your gun.  NOBODY.”

This is a bad idea from the outset.. Do you really think it’s going to make people trust you by sitting and building a cannon without anyone knowing? That smells bad all over to start with. In the event that a war does occur (which will not happen for a long time to come) what use is your gun if your Hitsquad leader doesn’t know you have it?

“They may defend you, or suggest your name for a position in a strong crew, but even your own Godfather or Godmother, can’t made decisions without approval from “them”.”

I’d be interested to know just who ‘they’ are. I respect the opinions and advice of my fellow crew leaders, but none of them tell me how I can, or cannot run my family. I would never attempt to tell another crew leader or Godfather how to run their families or cities. They have earned the right to run it as they see fit, that is the whole point of them holding that position. This point may, or may not have been a little more true in other cities before the fall of the recently deceased. However, I was not there and I am unable to speculate about that.

“Omerta.   A word that is thrown around in every HQ in every district.  And a fucking joke.”

I think you are misguided here again, and this also comes down to context. Omerta is our code of silence, goverened by honour and duty to our families.  If you have ever passed a witness statement along, you have broken omerta. If you have ever spoken to about your gun to someone other than your HSL, you have broken Omerta. Omerta is very important to our way of life, but like any other function, it has its limitations. For the most part, Omerta is observed the best it can be.

“Until rules are in place that would allow a group of young gangsters who are lacking finances but rich in ambition are permitted to set up their own crew in one of the many empty cities or districts without being labeled as “rogue” and wiped out in their first hours.”

We have seen this many times, there have been various ‘experimental’ cities on these shores and every time it is the same story. Someone moves to the city, claims it as their own and then within 24 hours, another upstart moves there and kills the last. People have regularly voiced their dismay at this concept and is often considered nothing more than a gladiatorial arena for the amusement of the masses.  Also, given the current climate is this really the best way to go on developing and rebuilding our cities? I hardly think not.

Stepping back, Rory took a moment to consider his final words hoping he had addressed this debate sufficiently.

I admire the level of passion and courage with which you present this debate, I have spoken to your ancestors before and have a good level of respect for them but I feel you are misguided in your way of thinking and the construction of your argument. I hope my reply goes someway to helping you move on in life.

Rory tips his hat to the young fellow before continuing on his way. 

Quick stood between two part cars, far left of the masses, but close enough to listen to all that was being said an addressed. Quick did not judge, he simply listened...  getting a clear understanding of "This Thing Of Ours". Quick knew nothing about bloodlines an the Ancestors of the fallen. All of this was VERY new to him...  but, what he got from it all was, how he wanted his bloodline to be portrayed an remembered. because that is what seems to count in the end.

Quick hung around after Rory left, to continue to observe the masses...  It`s not everyday you get to learn World history, without the mixture of Anger,lies, an deceit. 

Quick thought to himself...  "Educate me more, i`m very intrigued, an there`s so much to learn from others pass mistakes an misfortune".

LordToaly himself knows full well. Czylharz is far from a boogeyman, and far from relevant right now. 

Hearing a voice from behind the crowd, Al sees a familiar face as RoryRourke emerges.  Al is very happy to see someone in his position who is willing to speak up, so he stands quietly and listens carefully to his words before speaking, catching up to continue the conversation before Rory is able to walk away.

“Rory, I want to thank you for being involved in this discussion.  And will clarify as best I can.  As you likely know, I am not standing here today, complaining that I personally have been overlooked or ignored, I have been very proud of my ancestors and all they have accomplished.  They only achieved what they had thanks to the leaders who showed them the way and who educated them, trusted them and groomed them.  All of my feelings today are not anger, they are confusion and frustration after reading their journals and finally seeing things the way they are.  Time does build help build clarity.”

“For many mobsters such as yourself, there are things taken for granted.   Lessons learned from a long line of successful ancestors.   Each generation builds on the knowledge they have learned.  You know who to trust.  You know who to be concerned about.  You know the bloodlines of so many others who currently populate our cities.  And you know many secrets.  All of this allows you to see the world from a different angle and take certain things for granted.  A right you have earned.”

“Many of the points you quoted are related to trust and omerta.  Should a new recruit blindly trust their leaders?  Should we trust that our information is not going to be shared with people outside our family?  Do we trust that only the bare minimum will be shared with an alliance or are they getting details they really don’t need and will use against us in a few weeks?  Do we trust that those alliances will not contact him at a later date asking for an update on a growing gun in his crew and put pressure on him to deal with it?  Should we believe that he can protect them once that information has been shared with the wrong people?  And most importantly, will he defend someone who has shown loyalty over a short bloodline and protect them a fiercely as he would someone with a long bloodline?  All of these questions are related to recent events."

Taking a moment to pull out several messages which were stuffed in his pocket while walking through the crowd.

 “These notes, passed to me from this crowd, are a prime example of how many leaders take advantage of this lack of experience.  Absurd earning requirements which make saving any money for your own protection, your own growth or your next of kin so much more difficult are far too common.  They work far too hard to die poor over and over while the wealthy build of their blood and sweat."

“Many gangsters land on these shores dirt poor without knowing that the financial pressure from one crew to the next is wildly different.  Tributes need to be made, that is the way of our world, but the different expectations from one crew to the next is staggering.  So why do we force them to join a dozen crews before they find one with a low earning requirement?   Why are these expectations not posted publicly in the crew descriptions?  Something they can read before joining.  Most don’t even know to ask until they have been killed several times.  Explain that there is always deviation depending on each members details, but make it public.  Let's see who is fair and who is not.”

“I am not signalling out any individuals, that is not my intent.  What I am doing is trying to level the playing field one small step at a time.  Make it possible for those who are willing to work hard, earn, train and build, to also set themselves up for the future of their kin and to learn the next level if they choose to dedicate themselves to this life we all live.”

Lil old  Spikey is walking down the street whistling her favorite tune,  when she spots a small crowd discussing Big_Al's speech. Se takes in all the chatter. With raised eyebrows, she is fixated on Mr. RoryRourke.  She swallows the last bite of her apple, takes a swig of her water and clears her throat. 

MR RoryRourke, if I may have a minute of your time?  I have a few questions.  You stated the following:

This may have been the case at certain points in time, but I must say that I disagree with this sentiment. I know that here in Detroit we very much value all of our members. I make no secret of the fact that I would not be here without them and that is a solid fact. None of the current leaders are interested in a ‘us’ and ‘them’ divide. Ultimately there is a lot of rebuilding to do and that kind of attitude benefits nobody.

You agree with Big_Al at certain points in time, but not this time?  Even after the release of the disgusting chat held by the ones who are the most powerful running shit right now?

The recent wars have led to the deaths of many people, whole cities in fact, who may have been a ‘threat’. Ask yourself this.. Had you been in the position of the Godfathers who declared war on Las Vegas and Chicago, who knew that there were plans been made to kill members of our cities

What do you mean by "our cities"? 

I might add.. Would you have sat back and waited for them to start shooting before taking action? I don’t believe you would.. If I am wrong, then more fool you.

Are you not alliances with the quacks who were seen in that chat?

This is a bad idea from the outset.. Do you really think it’s going to make people trust you by sitting and building a cannon without anyone knowing?

Under normal circumstances, yes it is not a good thing to do. Would you not agree withholding that info when one is building a gun and the info is being sent to the jackass who is going to take your CL and family down? 

Lets face, it in today's world the so called experienced lacks respect and do not want anyone to be better. YEs all are going to die but while they take the cowards road, they disrespect all else.

Spikey exits the arena but quickly realizes she failed to raise one more valid point and question.

Mr. RoryRourke, you also stated with a sense of certainty:

In the event that a war does occur (which will not happen for a long time to come) what use is your gun if your Hitsquad leader doesn’t know you have it?

With certainty you speak those words. Does this confirm your ties with the cowards?

Feeling overwhelmed and very popular, Rory thought about his reply a little while, as the uproar stopped, he decided to speak once more.

Big_Al, if new recruits do not trust their leaders, and have faith in them, then why are they joining them in the first place? The way of this world is very simple, without a family to protect you, you will very quickly meet your demise at the end of a smoking gun. As for the sharing of peoples information, this is not common place. The most common occurrence in which information is shared is in times of war. Whilst this is not ideal, it is important to share information and co-operate with your allies in the face of a common enemy. This is not just true of our organisations, but if you recall the Great War in 1914, the triple entente were forced to share resources and information in order to defeat the axis powers, spear headed by the Germans. A lot of sensitive information was shared, but it was done so in the name of co-operation and the greater good and also under a bond of trust. Regardless of whether or not your information is shared, people will come to know whether you are adept in the art of killing, regardless of how stealthy you think you are.

Spikey, the ‘certain times’ I referred to in my original speech, were times such as the Roman Era, when our community truly was ruled with an iron fist. When individuals had such a hold on our way of life that it took years to undo and break. I think comparing the current regime to Roman and Co is distasteful. That is not to say that they were not good at what they did, but they really were not my cup of tea.

When I refer to ‘our cities’ I mean the cities all of us, the collective, the mobsters in this world belong to. Whether you are a gangster or a Godfather. Right now there is much work to be done to restore our way of life, this requires an effort from every single member of La Cosa Nostra.

As for being in alliances with these ‘quacks’, I am in alliance with all the current crewleaders and Godfathers, this does not however mean a military style alliance. We are working together to try and better our world, to fix the devastation that has occurred and to turn La Cosa Nostra into the thriving, hotbed of criminal activity that it was previously.

I do not feel I lack respect, I speak to every individual I meet with respect, until they give me reason to do otherwise. Given my position, I could simply come out here and berate you as a ‘salty’ descendant of one of the fallen and attempt to humiliate you. But I have not, I have engaged you in debate and given you my opinion of the matters discussed to the best of my ability.

As for my ties with these ‘cowards’. I do not approve of that term, the term ‘coward’ is a very subjective one. Each individual person has a different conception of the term coward, whilst you may consider them cowards, I consider them to be very brave individuals who came together as a unit. We stood together in the face of a threat and we put our lives on the line to remove people who posed a threat to our members. That is certainly not what I would consider cowardly behaviour.

I say that there will be no war with confidence because the current crop of leaders and Godfathers have no interest in further war. War is not a profitable business, we take no pleasure from it. Our sole aim is to rebuild the cities following their downfall.

I received a message this morning from Big_Al questioning me on the recent auth in Philadelphia. I think he was hoping that I would agree with his distaste and perhaps the cracks would show. If anybody is interested in reading a transcript of this conversation, it can be found here.

Rory pins a piece of paper to a nearby street lamp.

Sorry I didn't discuss it further in a public arena Big_Al, but i think this is sufficient to show as you desired. 

Al can't help but laugh a little as a smile comes across his face.  While he has gained new respect for RoryRourke, being the only leader brave enough to engage in this conversation, but it's clear that there is no genuine interest in changes for the greater good.

“Rory, I did send you a message regarding the most recent auth in Philly, and did challenge you to discuss it in public. My hope was you would explain to me how this "meritocracy" as you described it, is one that applies to the current generations, not bloodlines and nepotism.  That decision is EXACTLY what I have been describing and what you clearly said doesn’t happen.  I know Mr. Winchester and Snowball.  They are not bad people, but decisions like that send ripples thought our cities.  People see these things happen and are offended by it, even if they are afraid to admit it.” 

“Given recent events and the release of private documents that were never intended for the masses, please don’t be naïve and think that most of the criminals operating in our world right now have faith or trust in their leaders.  Leaders who have proven that they will lead their crews to a certain death for reasons that have little to do with current events and will sacrifice anyone in order to save themselves.  Many are afraid to speak up, but I am not alone, this I promise you.” 

“For every historic military reference of cooperation and “alliances” there are a dozen examples of how these brief moments in history quickly turn and one party uses the information gained for their own benefit.  A man with your apparent knowledge of history surely knows this.  The concept of “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” will, more often than not, end badly.” 

Sadly, this debate seems to be generating very predictable responses.  Those who are currently in a position to initiate change are either too afraid or too greedy to do so.  “Leaders” willing to surge ahead with their own agendas and personal goals showing little concern for the future and protection of their current crews and families. 

“The only true protection offered is for their power and wealth.”

“I challenge any of the current leaders to do just that and LEAD.  Post your crew earning requirements in on your crew description page.  Let new recruits know that you need them and that you are willing to compete for their services.  Allow them to make an informed decision before joining and start making changes that will allow others to grow and build into the type of LOYAL soldiers you seem to search out in the form of alliances.  Build true strength from within your ranks and stop the cycle of suicide pacts with “friends”. “

“I started this conversation hoping for engaging, intelligent and productive conversation.  Hoping someone would have the strength to stand up and admit that this thing of ours could be better if we encourage the growth of the newcomer.  It seems I’ve made a grave mistake thinking that we have true leaders in our current ranks.”

“I respect you Rory for standing here, in this crowd of people, taking questions and providing your opinion.  I don’t agree with you on many things, but you have shown more than any other leader by having the courage to show some respect to “us”.”

With that, Al dips off the street corner into a nearby speakeasy, orders a drink and begins to consider what the future holds.

JakeTheSnake, I can only assume you have not read, or not understood the posts made in this thread.  This is not about democracy or sharing wealth.  But there is no need to repeat what has been said.  

Best of luck to you.