I'd like to take a moment to explain how our custom factions will work.
There are many many custom factions in the game. The first thing that you (the player) needs to know is that MOST of them will start of with a neutral attitude towards a PC. So, Dragonarmy Forces and Whitestone Forces, who hate each other automatically - will not hate you...automatically.
Most factions are non-global...that is to say, if you rob/assault a commoner...he will give a shout that defenders and other commoners NEARBY MIGHT hear and respond to. If you go to another town - everybody will ignore you again.
So, I advise thieves/muggers to use dark secluded alleys for their "business" You might just get away with something.
Big Armies, on the other hand are global factions...That is to say, if you piss off one of them- you piss off them all. These factions include the Dragonarmy and Whitestone Forces...you can consider it a "wanted poster" reaction, if you will.
So - upon login - everybody in most factions will be friendly...Wanna be in the war - just attack a faction member and it's ON (until the next server reset (time for the 'heat' to be off).