I became friends with Olivebeard through a series of encounters that took place a few years ago. We helped each other out of several difficult situations that made his status as a traitor to the Dar'shak very apparent. Eventually, an emissary from his group of rebels came to me asking for supplies, as they'd fallen on hard times. I provided what I could, and would have asked exiles for more help had this emissary not expressly asked I keep quiet. After that, I heard nothing from the rebels until the recent events centered around them.
Through asking a lot of questions every time I've had the opportunity, I think I've accurately put together the history and some of the details of this rebellion. Those with good memories or a solid knowledge of history will remember Kiril Drakesblood and her famous invasion that took place eighteen years ago, in the Spring of 549. Previous to this invasion, Kiril and her brother Tyris served as a sort of intermediary between the cult and the pirates. After her death, negotiations between the two began to fall apart. Some of these pirates, led by the charismatic Tyris, severed ties to the theocracy and went into hiding to plan their rebellion. They've managed to elude the cult and gather their forces for several years, but have fallen on hard times, which brings us to somewhat recent events. With nowhere else to turn, the rebels have asked us for supplies.
I understand that there will be suspicion placed on Tyris for a number of reasons, not the least of which being his relation to Kiril. However, we have to remember that we share a strong common enemy with him in the Dar'shak. If we refuse to offer the aid that's been asked of us, the rebels will almost certainly be crushed by the cult, and we gain absolutely nothing. However, if we help as we can, we begin to both forge bonds with a new ally and deal a blow to the theocracy. The supplies needed include food, clothing, lumber, weapons, coins, and of course alcohol for morale purposes. If you're given the opportunity to, I urge you to offer whatever you can.
If anyone has further questions, or felt I was unclear at any point, say so.