I wanted to really appeal to the masses and gather some honest and truthful opinions. However, i dont particularly want any salt within this discussion, its intended to be more a topical debate on how and where we are after a huge war that seen 90% of our crime families killed and if the new "era of change and chance" is happening exactly how it was intended by the current crop of leaders and what people actually think. Im hoping within this discussion that people can and will be honest, without the fear of repercussion, myself included. I invite thoughtful, honest and sincere thoughts on if its working and if this change of tact is all it was advertised to be. 

People who visit the streets often will have noticed that ive been a huge advocate of what RobOakheart and ChristianGato have come out and said they wish to achieve and how they are planning on doing it. I openly applauded their ideals and their ethos on change, for me, it was very much welcomed and was more than willing to let this era in and let it take charge for the foreseeable future, after all its a change that would directly benefit my linage and my progression. Whats not to enjoy about the prospect of change, a change that would, on face value be to the betterment of myself and the community as a whole. There has been an awful lot of talk and promise going forward about how this world will shape up, again ive supported such notion and noise and was willing to allow those at the top time to change it and to rebuild it, the way they said it would, as a lot of people did too. The whole favor system is an incredible way of thinking, massive fan. Also what mr Gato is doing in general.  

I am however slightly disillusioned by a lot of things recently, they have troubled me, troubled me enough that id like to respectfully put those in charge, to task and ask some tough questions, after all, we are in an environment that allows for those who have that little bit about them to excel and challenge and this to a certain extant, is my challenge . 

We're just under two weeks post war and are we currently living in a world that was promised to us? Im going to go out on a limb and say no, i dont think we're even close to it. Maybe because im of an older linage, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree for me and when i look across our fair country all i see is a disjointed world, a world that does not have any order and i have to be honest, im not a fan. Like ive pointed out, my family has frequented these here streets for many a year and maybe its that way of thinking that doesnt allow me to see the bigger picture. In life im someone who will always look at the numbers, ill look at the landscape and i will know what is what or at the very least have a good understanding of where we are as a community. currently its impossible to see it, its hard to see how the landscape will get better, like i said, its utterly disjointed, in my humble opinion. I was speaking to someone today who described it as a lot of chaos and not good chaos.

I look across our fair land and i dont see cities that are joined together. I see random made men setting up in the cities that are free as and when they choose. There is no standard of announcements any more, not as much as a localized mail to let people know what is happening. It all feels very lazy. Yes, these are the rules set out buy the people in power, i get that but we still have a standard. We must still have unwritten rules that we adhere too. Im all for change but there are certain practices and core rules that we must still hold. These rules are the very fabric of our way of life. It currently feels like a free-for-all across the whole land, there is no generalized etiquette, much to the detriment of our way of life, if you ask me- This again could be my old logic and way of thinking.  

We have three cities that are opened up as pretty much a free-for-all, thats far too many. For a bit flavor i love the idea of having an open city to let people try their hand but three cities is far too much. It creates a very disjointed place for everyone who lives this life. Would it be a feasible question to close two cities and have one free-for-all? Even with radical change, we still must have underpinning rules or this place collapses and implodes. 

We are at a point, post war, that we can, if we wanted to allow people to take that bold suit on and help to revive our world organically. This lead me right onto my next point- The gods seen it fit to help set up crew leaders who wouldnt have naturally had the option to do it because of the lack of leaders being able to house mobsters again im going out on a huge limb to say, there is no way in this world that i feel they should be allowed to continue their operation when it comes to the point that we, as a community can sustain our own operations without them. why? well firstly as a community, we should above all else, keep an organic and natural selection process. Secondly, it makes a mockery of the whole, clean slate and actual hard work will get you places, like it should do. This is not a personal attack on anyone, rather an appeal to allow us to move on forwards, organically. 

I think we need to find a better mix of old vs new, im all for radicalizing our way of life but we still need to keep a few important principles, ones that have seen our community flourish for many years. I just think we may be stuttering forward a bit more than we need to be. I get these opinions my be extremely controversial and like i pointed out earlier, they are not meant as disrespectful, more as a challenge to those who can change our landscape. Mr Gato on a few occasions has tasked people to challenge how things work and question  the current strong-hold. From time-to-time they get stuff wrong and are big and bold enough to admit it. This is my challenge to those who sit on top to come out and be honest with those of us who shared your ideals and for those of us who were more than willing to not prejudge and allow for their way of life and actually say if its working out the way they planned and are the happy with the current landscape.

insta, thank you for bringing this up. It is something I have been thinking a fair amount lately. I have been very pro the changes I have heard about and like you I feel like it is not entirely to where I felt it should be. 

While I have been thinking a great deal on the subject I come to realize a few things. First is that it would never happen overnight. This seems like something that should be shared. Since it is quite a change from what our community has seen in quite some time it may take even longer. I have no doubt that Mr. Oakheart and Gato have been trying to join the cities together in this.

Something I see as a problem is that people do not wish to leave their comfort zones. Most of the leaders standing have grown accustomed to the previous ways. The ways in which they have flourished. There is nothing wrong with that, but from an outside view it appears that is what they want to stick to.  I feel like these changes are not going to come about as they properly should if not everyone is on board.

I cannot judge what goes on in other people's headquarters but I do not really see a change in the leaders speaking on the streets besides the auth speeches. I would love to see more of them coming to the streets to speak their minds so we could know a little bit more about them. Some would argue that the only people that need to know are their families, but what about those looking for permanent homes? Sometimes it is nice to do your research before you approach a leader but when there is nothing to really see, then what? I know that some of the changes that were wished to be seen if I remember correctly was participation. Is being vocal in our community just not a priority?

As far as the empty cities being filled up.. I really do hope that some people that have never donned bold suits take this opportunity. Perhaps three cities is too much but coming from the fact that we had so many empty for so long, seeing them being filled is a wonderful sight.  Maybe once two weeks has passed they could take a look. Gauge the interest in those cities. Perhaps if the interest isn't there they could make a district or city become authed in the old ways later on down the road. However, we kind of do not see regular way auths coming about other than in Chicago and Detroit (currently) with the individuals that had managed to survive the war.

I admire RobOakheart and Gato for taking their time before expanding too much into their own city. I feel like they are getting a better feel for the people that work in their cities before they take such a huge step. I imagine it takes a lot of patience and self controlled. 

We ultimately cannot grow with these changes if not everyone is on board. People can say so much but it's the actions we need to see to feel less disillusioned.  I personally am not sure I want to fall back into old habits. These changes would be very much a nice reprieve from the previous hatreds, grudges and what not. I saw the future as bright when the changes were suggested and falling back would make me think it is less so. I still feel like time is needed to bring it all about and while some people seem to be changing, I have hope for a better community. A stronger one not riddled with paranoia.

First is that it would never happen overnight. This seems like something that should be shared. Since it is quite a change from what our community has seen in quite some time it may take even longer. I have no doubt that Mr. Oakheart and Gato have been trying to join the cities together in this.

Hi Dusty, i agree and that was one of the main things i was thinking about when i made my speech; "is it too soon to be bringing this to the forefront" and part of me thinks that it could possibly be but this is more a temperature check of progress. more a toe in the water to see what people think and if they are still supportive of the ideals like you and i or if they still dislike it. I think it important to temperature check the decisions that leaders make, even if they are the long game decision and not quick win ones,if you like. 

I cannot judge what goes on in other people's headquarters but I do not really see a change in the leaders speaking on the streets besides the auth speeches. I would love to see more of them coming to the streets to speak their minds so we could know a little bit more about them. Some would argue that the only people that need to know are their families, but what about those looking for permanent homes? Sometimes it is nice to do your research before you approach a leader but when there is nothing to really see, then what? I know that some of the changes that were wished to be seen if I remember correctly was participation. Is being vocal in our community just not a priority?

I think its very important for all people to have some kind of presence out here, i would never like it to be a necessity as people hold different skill sets. Nonetheless, i do think those who lead should maintain a kind of stature out here.   

As far as the empty cities being filled up.. I really do hope that some people that have never donned bold suits take this opportunity. Perhaps three cities is too much but coming from the fact that we had so many empty for so long, seeing them being filled is a wonderful sight.

This in its self poses another question though, is it quality over quantity? Do we just fill up for the sake of having crews leaders up I pose this simply because of the three "free-for-all" cities that are currently open. We have seen a handful set up, out of the blue. One has been up for over 35 hours and still has not recruited. Is that counter productive? 

On the whole Dusty i agree with your ideas on change, i share them completely. I just do not want to see some of our core values lost as we progress forward. 

insta, I am not entirely sure it is too soon. I do think that it is perfectly fine to bring it up for discussion. I love that it is out and in the open for discussion so other people who may not be a part of crew leader meetings can discuss their own thoughts about it. The masses are a large group and I sure hope many more bring up their own thoughts.

I do share some of your concerns where the crews are. We have seen plenty go up and very little presence outside of a speech to speak about their family names. I am still hopefully those people will settle into their roles and start being more active in our community.  It's really hard to speak about recruiting tactics as there are so many ways to go about it.  Perhaps that particular one you are pointing out hasn't had time for jobs? If they have a job board perhaps they are not having the interest they had hoped they might have? Are they silent to the masses? This could be a problem as well. If no one has heard of them then perhaps that is the problem too. I am not entirely sure their method or choice but surely should they not be able to gain some interest then the right people will notice that. I am not sure if 35 hours is plenty enough to judge without knowing the factors surrounding their way of doing things. Maybe a little more patience is necessary.

I do understand the core values not being lost but were they not lost before? Standards had dropped, people felt that communication wasn't necessary among the streets and towards people that did not fall among their group. I think now we have a chance that hard work, loyalty, communication and standards to name a few are able to become strong once more. I want to see that more than anything.

It is a great topic for discussion, but ultimately maybe a little more time to get things sorted out would be good. In the meantime, we should by all means discuss things. Perhaps it will give our leaders some idea of things the way we see them, and give a chance for them to understand what it is the masses have hopes in seeing.

Firstly, I'd like to say, it's great to see discussions happening in these Streets. For a long time now, people have been far too fearful to come out and speak. To see people willing to come and do so now warms my heart. Clearly, it speaks a lot for those who are now Donning bold suits across the country. It proves times have already changed from what they were just a few weeks ago - and that is great to see.

Now, on to the points that have been made... The changes that have been made regarding people's ability to run freely in the 3 dedicated cities was obviously a big change for all of us - Leaders, Mades and Associates alike. I think it's fair to say that all of us held reservations at the mere thought of it. It's a scary ordeal for all of us, right? But are we scared of change, or are we scared of this idea specifically?

When RobOakheart first made me aware of his plans for the country, I pointed out a lot of things that could go wrong. I also pointed out a huge amount of great things that could come from it. This change to our country has a lot of advantages as well as disadvantages. As someone who literally started from the very bottom and worked tirelessly to reach the level of responsibility I am at now, I welcome the change. I only wish something like this had been around sooner so my family could have sooner put their mark on the world.

However, with that said, we know it obviously wasn't possible with those who were previously at the top. As aforementioned, there are now 3 "old-style" cities standing. The Leaders of these cities are happy to let this idea run and not pre-judge those who attempt their success in a free city. This doesn't mean to say we will just close our eyes and let these people run riot but it does mean everyone will get a fair chance. 

It's been mentioned that two weeks has passed and little has changed. I am inclined to disagree with this point. Just looking at the number of crews that are currently standing shows a huge change. However, this is a change in numbers and figures. I don't feel there has been enough change in how these crews are being run. I was already a standing Leader when all of these crews were formed. It hurts me to say, none of these Crew Leaders have actually reached out to me. Now, hasn't it always been the case that your ability to make contact with other Leaders (especially those who are already standing Bold when you take your step up) is of vital importance? This is one thing that is most certainly lacking from these "Free City Crew Leaders", in my opinion.

Although two weeks is plenty enough time for these new Leaders to make contact and start proving themselves as Leaders, I don't feel two weeks is enough time for us to properly see the efforts of the new way of our world. 

I've said it before and will say it again and echo Borya here this is so fantastic to return to a world where the streets are back to being what they once used to be - a place for open, articulate debate - a place to challenge and be challenged. This in my opinion is a great thing and I hope others gain confidence to return back to talking here....

I'm not one for sitting on the fence...I was open about my difficult choice to be part of a container crew but choose to go with the developments in this world of ours in unique circumstances. I for one must say I have spoken to, formed alliances with, started conversations that would never have happened post war...this is not a reflection on loyalty at all more a change of culture and approach and everyone trying to find their place in this new world we now see post war.

Chaos is given a negative label I feel - it is often a call for change....sometimes it feels uncomfortable but an ability to adapt quickly to a changing environment is an essential skill required to survive here. To have a 'neat' or 'ordered' re-structure post the pretty epic war that just occured would in my view not be in keeping with the devastating events that happened. Chaos will form order by hook or by crook - those that can adapt will. 

I am onside with the point of time taken I think this mainly falls into the field of many babies being born all at the same time and that they needed time to grow up and mature and rank...

We all knew people from the war - having the skills to branch out to start a conversation, to question, challenge different people is unique I feel and not something everyone holds....this war in so many ways has both divided and united the community for sure. Those with a family history here have certainly come out in force, me included, to welcome the new old changes to how things might be from now on. 

Firstly, as Borya mentioned it's a good sign that people feel they are safe again to come to the streets and begin a healthy discussion debating the performance of the changes being put in place by the current hierarchy. That is something I feel could not have happened under the previous regime and so there is a good start already.

Also, this is the first time in a long, long time that each city has been occupied in some capacity. Ignoring for a moment whether you feel they are doing a good job or whether its too chaotic, it is simply good to see no empty cities, in my opinion.

All leaders, from new cities and old, should really be spending more time in the streets, participating in debates such as this, but this will take time. I set up shortly after the fall of the previous regime and once the smoke had settled I spend the guts of a week trying to juggle getting my house in order, speaking with prospective members, debating the pro's and con's of the proposed changes with the other leaders, maintaining a public presence and also going about my daily routine. It was a lot of work and has only really relaxed this week.

That is not meant as an excuse for inactivity, but a mitigating factor. With each city now home to at least one new crew we will soon expect to see the change and activity that has been proposed and that yourself and the rest of the community are hopeful of seeing. It is also worth mentioning that we have an incredibly young community at the moment. Almost every bloodline has lost its figurehead. An heir has risen to take their place but they too need time to grow strong. As they get older and start to earn the right to become members of their families I think we will see progress start to speed up.

There is still a lot of hard work to be done both publicly and behind closed doors, but personally I feel we've made a reasonably good start.

In the interests of playing devils advocate and not in an attempt to publicly renounce your standing within this community Borya I must ask you the question to your opinion on new crew leaders not reaching out to you - why?

 I was already a standing Leader when all of these crews were formed. It hurts me to say, none of these Crew Leaders have actually reached out to me. Now, hasn't it always been the case that your ability to make contact with other Leaders (especially those who are already standing Bold when you take your step up) is of vital importance? This is one thing that is most certainly lacking from these "Free City Crew Leaders", in my opinion.

Why do they need to reach out to you? They have their business in their city and you run yours in Detroit, so long as their business isn't interfering with yours locally through the police and they abide to your rules whilst in their city, I don't understand what they need to reach out and say? What do you want them to say to you?

I was under the impression that the main point of these changes was to bring about more silo'd type working, rather than everyone holding hands and getting involved across the entire country? So what if they haven't introduced themselves to you personally? I'm sure the necessary diligence and paperwork was covered when they first set up to ensure that everyone was informed of their intentions. Naturally if they fail to communicate with leaders in their closer vicinity, then that might create more issues and problems for them as leaders. 

However I don't really understand what it achieves by all the crew leaders constantly having to make contact with each other about everything. So if you could please tell me why it is of such importance that they introduce themselves to you (and your other crew leaders as well or just you?) that might make those with their own similar future ambitions more aware of the networks they should be forming upon setting up.

I am aware that there is a "favour" type arrangement to determine the protection of families, but so long as they are contributing to the community and working hard to communicate with their families, I don't understand what "reaching out" to those on a 12 hour flight away might achieve.   

"Why must they contact you, Borya?" - chestbrah

The entire idea of Bob and Gato's movement to open up the other cities was to open up the community. The whole problem that was trying to be resolved was the fact that Leaders are silent - both in the Streets, not confronting the masses - as well as to one another, communicating with other Leaders.

The already-standing Leaders agreed to this movement happening. For those people who take advantage of this ability to go set up but then just sit on their thumb, refusing to partake in the community or get involved with those from other Cities is disrespectful, in my opinion.

"However I don't really understand what it achieves by all the crew leaders constantly having to make contact with each other about everything." - chestbrah

I fail to see where I said constantly. I don't think constantly is necessary. However, I do think contact between all Leaders is necessary. Without contact between Leaders, this motion for our country wouldn't even be possible. So if no contact was made between Leaders, we wouldn't even be where we're at now. Surely, this is enough evidence to say that contact between the Leaders will only help us in this new style of living?

To disagree that Leaders would benefit from remaining in contact with one another is ignorant.

The entire idea of Bob and Gato's movement to open up the other cities was to open up the community. The whole problem that was trying to be resolved was the fact that Leaders are silent - both in the Streets, not confronting the masses - as well as to one another, communicating with other Leaders.

Yes and I think those two came up with a fantastic idea. However I can't help but feel that the "established" cities should be leading from the front, especially on street engagement - something which has definitely come up short from my own observations in certain cities so far.

Naturally I would assume however they must be using excellent leader to leader communication, (which unfortunately I can't pass judgement on), which is something that those in the free cities aren't demonstrating. Perhaps this might suggest a weak point for improvement for those in the established cities to teach their mobsters before they let them run their own business in other cities? 

 The already-standing Leaders agreed to this movement happening. For those people who take advantage of this ability to go set up but then just sit on their thumb, refusing to partake in the community or get involved with those from other Cities is disrespectful, in my opinion.

Get involved how with other cities? Do you want communal jail parties? I thought we were moving away from this? Invariably communication will probably be there when looking for witness statements, although this is an area I think has for too long been a community effort when it shouldn't - but that's a story for another day. I think if they are buckling down with recruitment, family engagement and business engagement they are  contributing to the community.

The crew managers are but a small minority of the community, not necessarily the best placed to foster community growth but fortunate enough to survive the recent war - would you agree? Would you rather a few crew managers are happy or 20 associates dotted amongst various new families? Surely that's the best for the community as the greatest possible benefit? 

To disagree that Leaders would benefit from remaining in contact with one another is ignorant.

I can't help but find this quite ironic. I said: "Naturally if they fail to communicate with leaders in their closer vicinity, then that might create more issues and problems for them as leaders." This would imply that local communication is vital, long distance communication is less important. To paraphrase Mr Oakheart we should "focus on trying to live rather than living to die." If we all focused our efforts on internal communication and building a solid family base, encouraging growth and learning within the district or city; instead of ensuring good external relations all the time so that we aren't shot, the community would be in a better place. Isn't that the goal?

This seems like a good safe place to share opinions

I find this quite interesting topic as I myself have been enjoying our more than usual open world. I must say since the start of this post war community, I certainly have done nothing but enjoyed the overall activeness and positivity within our community. But I do appreciate this post for the things it puts in perspective for myself. 

We must still have unwritten rules that we adhere too. Im all for change but there are certain practices and core rules that we must still hold. These rules are the very fabric of our way of life. It currently feels like a free-for-all across the whole land, there is no generalized etiquette, much to the detriment of our way of life

I could not agree more. I think unwritten rules are simply part of any community in life. 

I know Don Oakheart is going to put much more elegance into his response, however here are my two cents.

We set out to make a change, my role was always to support Rob in his goal, despite how much of a 'team' effort he will claim it to be. He is the brains, the noble and idealistic spearhead of this drive. With his ambition and vision, we've been able to shift the tide and offer previously unobtainable positions to those that desired them. 

Case in point, my open approach to work in Manhattan. Has anyone previously been able to say that they have worked to Made Man off the skill of their attentiveness and adherence to their own values? Probably not. When the time comes that an individual has overthrown or assimilated with the other major crew in the district, they will become a fully fledged caporegime of Manhattan. Not by my choice or through their linage, but their their own judgement and actions. 

I'm offering a small part of what this world can offer us, and now is a greater time than any to test these unknown waters, to see what limits our creativity have and how many people we can inspire along the way. 

Will time tell if our vision has become reality? Possibly, but I honestly believe that to know for sure, we both need to step away and see which direction things flow in then. 

Real change is when others continue our paths without feeling they need to.

Disjointed maybe too a degree, but at the end i see things as a work in progress; Rome was not built in a day.  The last few weeks i have spent most of my time in dealing with internal matters within Senza's district whether paperwork, recruiting, fund raising or helping players out just like many other leaders and hands.  I think to a large degree the idea of attempting to house the community and the competition among crews including the container crews and new crews has made people work harder to a degree but communicate outside their own cities less.   I think is generally also one of them post war things, where people especially returning relatives of the dead are in that state of uncertainty on how long will this boss last.

I think part of the problem for some is simply as much as people wanted the fresh start for that equal balance, a lot of experienced players were able to use the skills passed down and organize things in a way which helped many of these players stay alive.  If your knowledge means you can predict how someone will hunt you, you try and avoid it as such in times of war so as someones practicing how will fire at you round the corner from your house, you move you utilize your members better so immediately gives a better chance of survival for those at stages.  Further more when container crews were launched yet again we saw experienced members of society thrust into the forefront even if temporarily.   Do i hope in time a balance comes, of course and i hope the free cities do this as well as other projects in New York.

The fact is yes a lot of communications will behind the scenes in hidden rooms on irc avenue, or by personal courier but to a large degree it is how it has always been.   As much as some can share a vision, depending how a district, city, even a crew is run maybe the plans seem less ambitious.  Personally within my own crew, is more a case of preparing people with the tools to move forward.  The fact is as much as i would like to be seen in public my priorities for now are my crew and districts well being.  The fact is even though i can i have not promoted people to made man, they have been told is a certain criteria for it and is there job to meet it.   Although there is some flexibility as they rise in rank a focus on being seen in public is part of it as otherwise people say who's that click monkey.   He must of just jobbed around and thats it and when Made Man means that little to some, to me it reflects on the people who give that honor out.

The truth is this is the first time in mine or my mothers life time I have seen all cities represent.  Do i want these cities to decend into a free for all, no.   Why? well different people, approaches and styles means when someone comes to our shores they don't just begrudgingly join whoever has room.   I think is good to have choice, and is great to have time to build as a leader learning peoples skills and developing that structure.   As long as they are positive in trying to participate at various levels of society i believe is something to build on.

I like the idea of a clean slate, i know will be a few people happy with whats happened war wise.   Some of them were happy to comment a lot as their fellow family members die or relatives before someone got fed up of them talking or they took their own lives.  The theory is now they can try and make that difference they claimed they wanted to see, they can try and grab a city by the guts and shape it but the hope is they will see the challenges that come with it and understand, is not always that simple as the words they say.

The truth is until we see the districts hit two crews each in the free city we probably won't see where we stand on what people will do with chances given and how they will develop or what others are willing to give up to try and move in on such cities.   Yes it could be bloody or people could think do i really want to give up this much work.   The second will be how much we see of them to see how people will judge them.

One of the biggest problems slowly going forward i have noticed after so long where people wouldn't, couldn't or didn't talk is like schooling a section of the generation on how to act where, how to speak and how to develop that street presence as is something their lineage hasn't had to do and therefore seems like starting at the bottom up.

I do agree with you Karen that it is a lot easier said than done. Running a crew or city to the highest level of standards is quite a task and it does take a lot of time and effort. I do hope that all the new CL's that take on the task of moving out to these vacant spots are ready for the challenge. It's important to find some good people fast to help make it happen. Having good support behind you will be key in growth and success overall.

For many of us well seasoned bloodlines, I think the idea of change is widely accepted and embraced. But I think it's our fear of the unknown and our knowledge of how things have been in the past that make us feel weary about certain aspects of this new way of life we are embracing. Talks like this are going to be key as we move forward, and I believe that it's a bit soon to start judging our progress. Many people are just finally meeting the required age to pursue many of these openings. Once the dust clears and things settle down a bit I think the chaotic feeling some of us are feeling will lift. 

Thanks insta for bringing this topic up because I do agree things do feel a bit off, but I assume it's just change. It's something out of our normal rhythm and pattern. For many many years we are used to things being one certain way, and now a new way has been paved. I think it's normal to feel a bit out of tune about it.

I think it's hard to say we're nowhere near it because let's be honest, people are still getting used to it. The idea around NY is something that we haven't seen before and something that some people will take getting used to. Remember, people are free to go unsponsored but if they don't step up to the standards that Godfather Gato has then they will fall out of favour. While people are training their guns we will naturally see this period of time where it seems as if nothing is going on, but behind the scenes no doubt there are people being sized up. I think it will just be a matter of time before we see those who are becoming out of favour to fall. 

The idea isn't for cities to be joined together so far as I can tell, but more for the quality of mobster to rise. The idea is that if you don't add anything to the community then you are not protected. Thus far I've seen very little from those who are set up to tell me that they are contributing massively to their cities or districts so it may well be that they're not protected and thus can be removed without consequence. Again I have a feeling this is something we may see happen after people have honed their guns. Not that I expect people to go around wacking everyone, but I expect those who aren't doing much and aren't adding much to the community to be killed at some point. I hear what you say about a free for all, but as long as they're not shooting at anyone who's protected I don't see the big problem. I'm sure you are as fed up as I am with seeing the same auths over and over again, so it's refreshing to see some guys going out and giving it what they can. Some will soon realise that being a leader isn't for them and that it was more of an indulgence that struck them rather than a well thought out move on their behalf.

I never fully understood the Gods intervention in appointing their own crews. After all, everyone at that point was protected through the God's protection of Rebuild Mode, so it made no sense to me and now that the cities seem to be underway, I see even less reason for them to be active.

Our old ways are to just auth how we have been doing for countless years. Oh yes, it's my chum, I'll auth them now no fucken problem. I'm fed up of seeing that, I'm sure you are too and I think we need to give this more time before we begin to be critical of it. As I said before it's going to take some getting used to for everyone but I have faith in the system and I feel it can work if given time and people are open minded enough about it. It's all about people realising they can't get something for nothing anymore, they actually need to put some effort in instead of being lazy fuckers.

In my observation, we - as a largely developing community - are going for the thrill ride of our lives. I haven't been around in these shores for too long but I can somehow see where we are heading. This 'new era' is an ongoing project that will require collective effort from most of us. It adds a new form of spice for the game. Actually, I believe that we now have opportunities to create new smaller projects to make our world better and more distinct. Is our reality here, then, disjointed? It could just be a phase that we are undergoing. After such a big war, everyone is just starting out. With great new rules drawn out, I can't help but wait what's going to happen - all the while doing my best to contribute to this world of ours.

As weeks go on, there's no doubt that we're going to see progress. Most of us will just speculate ahead of time. Why not? Speculation is the game. The new codex that we have now will cause us to focus on a quality-oriented sphere, rather than one driven by automation. It's exciting to see people rising up, grabbing the pie slice meant for them, yet their contributions to the society are still tantamount. 

Let's see how the current world pans out, yet let's not forget to share whatever we can share - efforts, ideas, resources, opportunities - in order to make our community more exciting than ever. We work collectively, but we should also work on refining ourselves. From there, a better society may emerge.

Having limited time I am not able to read this entire thread. What I did read, two words stood out. "post war"  Post war can place a damper in newer and older minds and for various reasons.  War is an act of  killing. It is a thrill.   What needs examination is post war activity that entails the rationale and the people in position.

Anton was listening on the debate. As a RHM of one of the free cities he has to let the world know how he feels about the entire ordeal. 

Hello, everyone. I believe most of you have not heard of me or my bloodline, my ancestors wasn't that important, my bloodline has never been on any top management or any crew. I am here to join this part of the debate, not as a sign of disrespect but I come to you all today because I want my voice, or voices of many newer bloodlines hear.

When my family first arrived on this shores, my ancestor was taught that in our world there are many rules and regulations we should adhere to. Fair enough, according to my ancestor's log book he was more then willing to learn, he worked hard. As did his son after that, follow by his son after that and his son after that.

However, over a few generations of ancestors, my small collective of ancestors learnt one thing at the end when they are continuously slaughtered over and over again.

The rules and regulations? 

Our way of life?

It has always been the same, set by the same set of people of the same bloodline, there were no changes. So after the war, I question myself if it was worth it committing this much of time in this line of work? As I knew I will never be able to rise up the top. I will never be given a chance, work hard and you will be rewarded. Lets ask ourselves this, is it? As a fairly new bloodline, from my point of view, I will never rise up to the top no matter how hard I work, because my bloodline is not old enough. 

Simply because the people who controlled this world or community of ours never changed. It was on a mere rotation basis, it was like a season. Our world has became dull because it was on a rotation basis. It has no appeals to new bloodlines or those who has just arrived on our shores.

Anton cleared his throat and continue. 

That was until, Don Rob Oakheart gave that one speech, which spark my interest in our line of business again. The passion when my first ancestor arrived on these shores. I found it again. Let me requote what Don Rob Oakheart said which has infused back the passion my bloodline was loosing.

Anton unfolds a piece of the speech which he has wrote down. Anton clears his throat and read out.

"People with the ambition to do so and who are unsponsored and able to, can setup shop in any of these cities. People who are sponsored should talk with their crewleader, but in general is agreed that people with ambition are not held back any longer. A leader agrees when his people chose to pursue this opportunity, but in no sense is a leader from one city authing one into another, as that suggests authority over another city. The term 'auth' is not relevant in these scenarios."

After listening to the speech, I thought of the speech for a whole day, first, let me apologize to Don Rob, because in the beggining I was suspecting, if this was a plot to weed out all those who opposed to NY's ideas, I believe many still thinks the same as of right now. Because we were taught to fear those who were at the top, because the idea of being slaughter if we disobey the top.

But me and my current crew leader Bigboss decided to take a leap of faith, me and Bigboss who were in Godmother Senza's crew decided that we should pursue our career out in the East. Godmother Senza, was kind enough to give us the nod to leave and start out something. While Matt_foley who was with Mr Kurgan of Chicago has decided to come work with us. 

As soon as we hit Pasadena four days ago, reality hits, my bloodline has never been auth, Bigboss's bloodline has only been auth once. One that was destroyed in a short while, we didn't have much experience between our both bloodlines. However we were lucky to have @Matt_folley who's bloodline was also authed once and his ancestor's crew lasted longer hence he has a much better understanding in running things. He begun advising us on what to do on certain aspect, while at the mean time forcing us to go on a trial and error method and forcing us to learn. 

I was learning, I was happy that I am finally given the chance to learn on how to become a leader of a community, instead of being govern by a set of rules. I am finally given a once in a liftetime chance, where my ancestors did not get. I have finally found a new purpose to stay on this shores and not leave.

Anton clear his throat before finishing up.

Ladies and gentleman, once again I am here giving this speech because I am here to voice out as a fairly new bloodline and I want the world to know that I am glad such a big change.

Anton gives a smile to the mass.

Has finally re-lit the passion that my father and my grandfather has slowly begun to lost. 

Firstly, id like to thank everyone of you that stood and listened to what ive had to say and have had their own input. Its really empowering to see so many come out give their, what seem to be honest thoughts on the current state of affairs. Take out the actual content of what ive said, the underpinning context here was to inspire debate and help to show that we can, as a community, have our say and can Challenge those who sit above us and actually put the to task. Id have like to see a few more leaders throw in their hand but im a lowly wise guy so i cant expect too much.

There a few points id like to pick up and maybe explain my view point further, sometimes things can be lost in the initial translation.

Mr ChristianGato please accept my sincerest of thank you's for gracing us with your presence, again, its exciting to see a god father out here, especially one that has been put to task. It would be easy to shy away from this and you've not done that, so thank you. 

Case in point, my open approach to work in Manhattan. Has anyone previously been able to say that they have worked to Made Man off the skill of their attentiveness and adherence to their own values? Probably not. When the time comes that an individual has overthrown or assimilated with the other major crew in the district, they will become a fully fledged caporegime of Manhattan. Not by my choice or through their linage, but their their own judgement and actions. 

Like i made reference to, i completely buy into your thought process, anyone can see that you have an outside of the box logic and its exactly what this place needs, the more the better. It was a shame that these opportunities came out when they did, like i told you in private, its something i would have been very interested in doing, had the timing have been better.

 Will time tell if our vision has become reality? Possibly, but I honestly believe that to know for sure, we both need to step away and see which direction things flow in then. 

 Its time that we have an abundance of and going off the general consensus, it seems that the vast majority are willing to ride this new era and are in fact incredibly happy by the forward movement you are taking. As for stepping away, im not sure that you both can take too much of a back seat. Yes we should all find our way in this life but with such a radical change afoot we expect, no we need strong figure heads to help steer the ship in the direction you want it too. What will make this motion suffer is absence.

Also, this is the first time in a long, long time that each city has been occupied in some capacity. Ignoring for a moment whether you feel they are doing a good job or whether its too chaotic, it is simply good to see no empty cities, in my opinion.  

Mr AnomanderRake id like to just pick out this point you made and further expand another question from it, if i may. While in agree from a statistical point of view we have people dotted about in different cities and have filled cities that were not filled previously but is this the answer? It could be mistaken as quantity of quality. We have a crew leader take control of a central district who hasn't added to their HQ yet and has been set up for more than long enough, is this the correct etiquette. Yes its an open city but it still begs that question.  

I think part of the problem for some is simply as much as people wanted the fresh start for that equal balance, a lot of experienced players were able to use the skills passed down and organize things in a way which helped many of these players stay alive.  If your knowledge means you can predict how someone will hunt you, you try and avoid it as such in times of war so as someones practicing how will fire at you round the corner from your house, you move you utilize your members better so immediately gives a better chance of survival for those at stages.  Further more when container crews were launched yet again we saw experienced members of society thrust into the forefront even if temporarily.   Do i hope in time a balance comes, of course and i hope the free cities do this as well as other projects in New York.

 Karen, again thank you for taking the time to come out, listen and give me you very comprehensive thought process. im inclined to agree with much of what you've said. I just want to touch on a route that you started to explore. Here within what you have said is habit, we are a race that live off habit. We have lived under an umbrella that has allowed us to fond safety in familiarity. So for a change on such scale will be hard for the older lineages to come to terms with. We (the older lines) will need to adapt to change, im guilty of all of the above. That doesnt mean i dont welcome such change, i sincerely do. Its just a change of such scale needs to be done the correct way.

Disjointed? I would prefer not to see it that way, I would prefer to see it as a city or district having their own identity, without being affiliated to their previous employers. Isn't it refrshing to see that diversity now? The whole idea was to give people who wants a chance at leadership a shot at it for them to fully explore their capabalities at running a crew.

Santino_Gato thank you for coming out to speak to me, its very much appreciated. I think the whole idea of each city having a single identity is perfect, im love with that idea. Even though i adore the ideology, there still has to be a standard. i fear that with three open cities that it might negate the work put in by the "real" for the lack of a better word, could be overlooked.

Not anyone would be allowed to move to another city without some sort of permission from their current employers. If that were the case, wouldn't they be considered a rogue if they just simply set out their business somewhere else without proper approval?

I suppose without me actually coming out and saying it, this was probably one of my questions. The problem is, none of these random crews setting up has been communicated, that in its self holds a few issues, especially for the hitters of this world. Like your question, is it rogue? i know a few hitters who will shoot firs and ask questions later when it comes to this kind of thing. I suppose what im saying is, even though we have open cities, i would still like, maybe even expect some form of standard when it comes to them taking a HQ in an open city.

I think it's hard to say we're nowhere near it because let's be honest, people are still getting used to it. The idea around NY is something that we haven't seen before and something that some people will take getting used to. Remember, people are free to go unsponsored but if they don't step up to the standards that Godfather Gato has then they will fall out of favour. While people are training their guns we will naturally see this period of time where it seems as if nothing is going on, but behind the scenes no doubt there are people being sized up. I think it will just be a matter of time before we see those who are becoming out of favour to fall. 

Mr FitzChivalry i submit, i think i might have been over zealous with my wording. The intention was to never play down what is trying to be achieved. The whole favor system is incredible. I think there is so much more legs in it. There is so much that can be done with that notion. So much so that id love to see it spread right across our land. I massively support it. I think we just need to see more of it.

Again i want to take this time to thank everyone who came, listened and contributed. Its really good to listen to view points on a very real and active change that we face.