As a whole, the Volterran Empire is doing quite well. We've established the first Pylon in Eilon, we've got our government officially organized, we're actively working up the tech tree, and we have positive relations with all of our neighbors. We also have a thriving newfriend population mixed with seasoned oldfriends to maintain stability and help the newcomers along. I'm very pleased with all of this and very proud of all of you for making this possible.

That being said, with how well things are going and how exciting the bustle can be, some citizens are misunderstanding the purpose of Volterra and are getting carried away. We are, fundamentally, a builder society with a focus on integrating newfriends into peaceful coexistence, cooperation, commerce, and progress. We are not warlords, warriors, or imperialists. While we maintain military forces, they are strictly for the defense of our sovereign lands and those of our allies.

We do not seek to annex, conquer, or otherwise strong arm our neighbors or anyone. I've heard on several occasions some newfriends say things like "We should annex X, Vassalize Y, Conquer Z", but that is not who we are, and you are not in control over our foreign policy- I am. This is to avoid diplomatic incidents, blunders, and embarrassment. After all, shard-wide cooperation is not just an ideal, it's a necessity in 3.0.

So, while we are thriving and enjoying ourselves, we all need to think about what we want in civcraft. If it's war, raiding, and conquest, then Volterra is fundamentally incompatible with your ambitions, and you should seek a different civ to join. If you're content with our identity, but have been getting a little carried away, I ask that you please tone it down and respect our neighbors and government system. While I don't take those kinds of remarks I mentioned earlier seriously, our neighbors may get the wrong impression. Actively undermining our foreign policy is a highly treasonous act ;)

So, I'd very much appreciate your cooperation and understanding on this matter and leave diplomacy to me. Thank you!