Standing order 53 and the limits of pursuing pirates

Stingray's first officer reminds Dunmoore that standing order 53 forbids pursuit beyond recognized Commonwealth space without a flag officer's authorization. One explanation is operational caution: aggressive captains could enter areas where support is unavailable and expose their ships to ambush. Dunmoore instead suspects that the restriction protects wealthy interests operating outside Commonwealth jurisdiction. Her suspicion is a character's interpretation of the order, while its practical restriction remains binding. She moderates her criticism in front of the crew because they take their cues from her, then stretches the meaning of the boundary to continue the chase. She knows her geographical justification is weak.