Many have approached myself and Officers within the Navy and asked us
what our plans were regarding the Pirates of Meropis' declarations
regarding Zanzibaar. I come before you to clear this up.

For a long time the Imperial Navy of Ashtan has stood as the only
barricade between enemies amongst the seas and simple sailing folk,
fishers, explorers. This will no longer take place. We cannot police the
world, it is not our responsibility and we cannot continue to do so in
good faith. If you are one of the many terrorized on the seas by Zulah
and his kind, I advise you to simply talk to your city leadership and
ask them what they are doing to help you. They have an entire Ministry
set up with this as their sole purpose. Yet I have seen nothing from a
single one, save Eleusis and just recently, Hashan.

Our Harbour and the Sapphire Sea, however, will remain a place of peace
for all who seek it. It is a neutral zone to all aboard ships and any
hostile actions taking place there will be met swiftly with the full
force of Ashtan's Navy. Outside of this area, unless directly affecting
Ashtan Herself, will not be patrolled any longer.

I kept the wolves back as long as I could Sapience, let's hope you used
the time wisely.

Micaelis Bayt al-Azhan
Admiral of Ashtan

Penned by my hand on the 9th of Glacian, in the year 505 AF.