Dear Citizens of the Bastion,

Shallam has recently been compelled into revoking our internal ban on
raiding Ashtan and Ashtani property.

We had thought to reach out to those in Ashtan, to show them the way of
Truth, through peaceful means, by restricting any offensive attacks
against Ashtan.

However, recent incursions by prominent members of the Shadowsnakes
House - including the Overseer of Ashtan, Zambuk - have led us to revoke
such a policy.

It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that due to the Overseer's
continued incursion, the ban is henceforth revoked.

To those remaining Citizens who hold firmly to the concept of freedom, I
urge you to petition your Council for an Overseer with skills of
diplomacy and tact. One who will not unduly hamper your freedom by his
own misguided stupidity.

An Overseer who holds the interests of all of Ashtan at heart, and not
merely those of the strong-guard of depravity and corruption, the
Shadowsnakes.

I have encouraged our troops to target only those who actively support
Chaos and Evil, and attempt to define Ashtan by those two concepts. I
urge all of you who do not hold to those two labels, to lay aside your
arms. You will not be targeted by us.

To the Citizens of Ashtan: with freedom comes responsibility. Your
Overseer flaunts and abuses his powerful position. Be wary.

May the power of Truth enlighten you.

Akechi Markuth, Minister of War

Penned by my hand on the 8th of Chronos, in the year 476 AF.