The Tigerium has officially implemented a strict trade embargo on Rayak following Khan Ratta's refusal to cooperate with ambassadors of the Tigerium. The diplomatic crisis was sparked by a request from Tarosh for intelligence regarding the "Gray Triumvirate", an illicit criminal syndicate. Rayak's government, headed by Ratta, is accused of being closely aligned with the criminal syndicate.
Ratta has denied all ties to the enterprise, stating that Rayak "has nothing to do with the Gray Triumvirate". However, several reports seem to indicate a secret partnership between Rayak and the Gray Triumvirate. Ratta has recently declared independence from Tijgeron and his forces confronted Tijgeron's hordes in several clashes. The Gray Triumvirate, formerly an ally but now an enemy of Tijgeron, has had its mercenaries recognized fighting alongside Rayaki troops. Ratta has refused to comment on these reports.
Diplomats from both the Tigerium and Rayak are reportedly meeting hoping to restore relations, as the Tigerium has become reliant on imports from Rayak. Additionally, some high ranking officials have opposed the embargo since Rayak and the Gray Triumvirate both oppose Tijgeron, whom they consider a "worse criminal". They also said punishing Rayak and the Gray Triumvirate might bring them closer together, perhaps even restoring relations with Tijgeron. However, the embargo remains active regardless.
The syndicate in question
The Gray Triumvirate is a notorious criminal enterprise allegedly led by three "Triumvirs" including an elephant named Olifantje, a hippopotamus named Nijlpaard and a rhinoceros named Neushoorntje. The group faces several criminal offenses, including complicity in war crimes, pillaging, unlicensed spice trade, illicit drug trafficking, illicit weapon manufacturing, arms trafficking and tax evasion.
