During the first period (1518–1587), the beylerbeys were admirals of the sultan, commanding great fleets and conducting war operations for political ends. They were slave-hunters and their methods were ferocious. After 1587, the sole object of their successors became plunder, on land and sea. The maritime operations were conducted by the captains, or "reises", who formed a class or even a corporation. Cruisers were fitted out by investors and commanded by the "reises". Ten percent of the value of the prizes was paid to the pasha or his successors, who bore the titles of "agha" or "dey" or "bey".