Corsairs of the Republic of Ithics

The Corsairs of the Republic of Ithics balance a strange duality in Ithica’s political landscape: though labeled “pirates” by some, they hold an officially recognized seat in the council and adhere to specialized letters of marque granted by the monarchy. Their presence infuses a sense of thrill and unpredictability along Ithica’s docks, as colorful flags and animated sea shanties announce the arrival of ships that are, at once, both raiders and allies. Far from skulking in hidden coves, these corsairs maintain their own bustling port districts, where legitimate business intermingles with whispers of questionable deals. Despite occasional friction, the Corsairs keep an uneasy peace within Ithica’s political framework—fueled by their confidence and bold maritime accomplishments.
At the heart of their organization lies a democratic command structure: each ship’s crew elects its captain, who must continuously prove merit and charisma to retain authority. Periodically, the captains come together in a “Corsair Assembly” to deliberate shared priorities—ranging from raiding hostile fleets to negotiating new terms for docking privileges within Ithica. This assembly format reflects their name, “Republic of Ithics,” symbolizing a fierce insistence on autonomy and voting rights. Any captain who fails to serve their crew’s interests may be swiftly replaced, resulting in volatile shifts of leadership that mirror the Corsairs’ mercurial nature.
Though they are permitted to seize vessels belonging to hostile nations, the Corsairs of the Republic of Ithics must tread carefully. Official letters of marque detail boundaries to their raids: allied merchant ships and key Ithrian partners remain off-limits, and any violation risks revocation of their council seat. Yet this fine line can blur when profits beckon. Rumors persist that while some Corsair captains adhere closely to official codes, others intentionally target shadowy “neutral” vessels to claim contraband under the guise of liberating ill-gotten cargo.
Life aboard a Corsair vessel brims with camaraderie, punctuated by raucous deck celebrations when a successful raid or a favorable wind spares them from danger. New recruits learn a code of conduct that defies typical naval discipline; corsairs are expected to stand together against external threats, but captains encourage personal flair. Dice games and bets on seaspray riddles are common below deck, forging a tight-knit loyalty. In times of conflict, this freedom coalesces into a swift, decisive unity, enabling them to respond with startling coordination.
Once docked in Ithica, the Corsairs often gather in waterside taverns or their own garrisoned enclaves. These gatherings highlight their flair for dramatic storytelling and sharp wit—tales of monstrous sea creatures defeated, cunning raids narrowly won, and harrowing escapes from foreign armadas. Sometimes, factions within the city see this flamboyant presence as an eyesore. The Jade Tribunal keeps an ever-watchful gaze on the Corsairs, particularly if any rumor surfaces of stolen goods traded within Ithica’s limits. Tensions spark whenever suspicious cargo is unloaded with suspiciously incomplete documentation.
Still, the Corsairs’ services prove indispensable during naval crises, such as when a foreign blockade threatens Ithica’s shipping lanes. Their quick maneuverability and fearless, if chaotic, fighting style can shatter an encircling fleet or cut off a supply line intended to strangle Ithica’s economy. In these desperate moments, other factions welcome Corsair involvement with open arms, momentarily forgetting any bad blood. The Corsairs capitalize on this, insisting that no one can protect Ithica’s waters better than those who sail them by choice rather than order.
Their distinction from the Shoalguard Navy is stark yet complementary. While the Shoalguard upholds more structured defense doctrines, the Corsairs leverage unpredictability to strike where foes least expect. Raiding tactics, swift boarding actions, and the willingness to accept high-risk missions often swing the balance during heated battles. When both groups coordinate—a sometimes fraught partnership—the results can be devastating for any adversary foolish enough to believe Ithica’s waters can be subdued.
Public opinion on the Corsairs of the Republic of Ithics remains divided. Many commoners see them as romantic figures, swashbucklers preserving Ithica’s independence. Certain merchants praise them for deterring predators from the shipping lanes, while others loathe the unpredictability they bring. Yet the simple fact is that the corsairs, with their flamboyant sails, rebellious spirit, and undercurrent of self-governance, have become part of Ithica’s identity. As loud and fearless as a roaring gale, they carry a promise to protect their homeland—a promise kept on their own terms, ever ready to outwit and outrun any challenge on the open sea.

Ruled Locations

• Ithica