Sharks in the Water

Seventy Fourth Hiqba Following the Revelations of Occulem, Second Mahj

As shared between sailors in their cups

Despite the strides made by the Ibeshi peoples in recent years, the lingering resentments of numerous veteran vindicators and segments of the embittered populace endure as they have sought out means to mend the wounds still fresh in the memories of those less contented with the Rokkarian treaty. While efforts to cause disruption within Jalmud Emirate have been suppressed by the Sultan's hand, others across the realm have taken to the tides to seize rancorous opportunities beyond the coasts of the Sultanate.

Hearsay from merchants often engaged with Ibesh vessels throughout the eastern seas now claim that night-time raids and piracy have become rife in the region just beyond sight of Khrom fortifications and outposts, seemingly encouraged further by brazen boasts of the crews responsible at habitual haunts and taverns. Many of whom are proud to confess that such plundering is conducted by the Sayed Zarqawi, eldest living son of the warmongering Emir Rashid and captain of the I.S Kahif. Their bloodthirsty antics personally lauded as an unofficial continuation of the Avengement at sea, inviting bands of similarly irate seafarers to mete out their own sense of justice.

Regardless of any rumour, few can doubt the directed animosity toward Rokkarian vessels that depart the safety of Rok Bay or the gruesome tales that emerge of any ship successfully caught by these allegedly lone marauders. There remains only tepid acknowledgement of the circumstances by the Court of Nobility, favouring to distance themselves from any international condemnation or demand for responsibility that might come their way.

Occulem Sneers