It's been like this before and it is again. There are individuals who want there to be battle. Out of malice, stupidity, prejudice... But they are the minority. Regardless how you look at the freeport's shelling it didn't and never would do any damage. I am not yet a side in this and sure as hell I don't want to become one - sandwiched between a debt of gratitude and fleets of Legates. The Elder council presented a deal - it's THEIR initiative which means regardless of what some of the elders might think... even oppose it - the council's ruling as a whole is clear. They don't want to see the ninth freeport as a staging ground for their enemies who abuse your hospitality.
So to sum up, keep a cool head, acknowledge only what really matters and ignore those trying their worst to get their war. The corsairs -formally- extended their hand, now it's your turn to accept it.
And if you ask me, I'd take the deal without negotiations or questions asked.
![[Image: Vxqj04i.gif]](https://i.imgur.com/Vxqj04i.gif)