Greetings Sapience,

I will try and make this brief. Shallam does not now, nor have they ever
claimed rights over the village of Jaru. If that were indeed the case
then we would have paid Shallamese guards wandering the streets there
along side our citizens but this is simply not the case. Jaru is a
village unto itself with its own trade rights, its own government and
its own sense of self preservation.

Jaru is the small fishing village next to our city. You must understand
that with such close proximity the people of Shallam have developed
somewhat of a bond with the villagers. Understandably we do not wish to
see our defenceless neighbours slaughtered. Did this bring Mhaldor's
full attention to the village? Without a doubt it did. However the
slaughter of Jaruvians is not a new thing and was Shallam prepared to
stand idly by anymore? No we were not.

To those that would seek trade with Jaru. Perhaps you should allow the
village some time to recoup. They are a people that have been long been
targeted as easy prey and THEY have finally had enough. When the Mayor
decides the time is right he will reopen the gates and allow easy access
for all. Until then all non Shallamese enemies have free access through
our city.

To city enemies of Shallam. If you feel that you should be allowed
access to Jaru then you are free to approach a Shallamese council member
and we can determine whether Shallam is willing to take that risk to our
own citizens. However, it is not Shallam's responsibility to allow city
enemies to walk freely within our walls. If you are denied access
through Shallam then it is up to you to approach the Mayor of Jaru
yourself. Mayor Cotridge is a reasonable and intelligent man and if he
wishes to open the gates to allow you access then he will do so. I in no
way speak with his voice but perhaps you should excuse him if he wishes
to conduct business with possible enemies at a distance right now.

Kotori Vorondil
Vizier of Shallam

Penned by my hand on the 16th of Lupar, in the year 369 AF.