Conflict between the two Water Tribes had long been prevalent, but escalated shortly following Chief Unalaq's occupation of the Southern Water Tribe in 171 AG. During this time, Unalaq expunged the Southern Council of Elders from the Southern Water Tribe Royal Palace and mobilized his troops to patrol the harbor city. Resentment from the Southern tribesmen resulted in the formation of the Southern Water Tribe rebels by Varrick, who were later to be led by Tonraq.