Peeta,
small players do not turn into big players overnight, as I'm sure you realize. If this practice discourages enough of the smaller players, who also cannot grow as rapidly a the larger players (so they never realistically will be able to protect themselves), they may well quit the game totally. Obviously, this does not fit Tynon's business model. There should be some solution. I merely wanted to stimulate discussion of a problem, and hope that others can offer possible suggestions that could be considered.

Additionally, sinking everyone in a players Guild who practices this only leads to more bad will, especially among the smaller players of that Guild. Basically, it's virtually the same principle, same offensive tactic. Although, perhaps if absolutely no one from that Guild ever made a successful sail, perhaps pressure from within could have a dampening effect on that behavior. On that thought though, my feelings are that lowering oneself, or a Guild to the same level as a person who deserves no respect is never the answer. And the old saw about two wrongs making a right come into play.

As I said....food for thought, and hopefully an improvement in the game that will make it more enjoyable for more players.