505-11-04 Ducal Gathering Regarding Guardian

From Crossroads Wiki

Ducal Gathering Regarding Guardian
RL Date	August 14, 2008
Players	Phineas Ashlan, Aileana Ashlan, Raziel Devonshire, Catelyn Claremont, Aaric Barca
Location	Sitting Room - Green Fields Tower - Gateway Castle
Crossroads Time and Weather
IC Date	November 4, 505 A.G.
Season	Winter

Audience Chamber - Imperial Tower - Gateway Castle

Despite the name, this room seems to hold more purpose than just sitting. Upon first inspection, it has a very open feeling as if everyone present would be expected to interact fully with others. It's a reasonable assumption since all of the burgundy and emerald striped couches and chairs form a large square that face each other, small side tables often shared between each piece of furniture for drinks to rest. It's only obvious when one takes a few more steps into the room why the room is arranged in this fashion.

Gleaming in sturdy oak stained to look closer to cherry is a dance floor. Scuff marks from obvious use wink up at guests as if the promise of a foot stomping good time will await them soon. This thought is easily perpetuated by the fact that the bookshelves on either side of the large fireplace in the room hold musical instruments in more frequency than books. Though there may be violins, flutes and other more traditional form of music makers on the shelves, it's the whiskey jug and washboard type items that may garner more lifted brows.

A large tapestry of the Green Field crest, a green shield with a burgundy stripe going from right to left with a rearing gold horse on one half and a golden wheat stalk on the other, takes up spot over the fireplace. The rest of the walls boast tapestries of various festival scenes that occur regularly on the Isle. Instead of a sideboard, there is an old wagon that's had a tabletop surface added to hold the drink bottles, a keg of ale, and various glasses.

Duke Raziel comes in from the entrance to the Green Fields tower.

Phineas and Aileana are standing near an end of the table, talking quietly. A repast of food and drink is laid forth, all finger foods. And some pie.

Aileana does looks towards Raziel as he arrives, her head bowing in greeting, "Good evening, Your Grace."

Duke Raziel inclines his head to both Phineas, and Aileana, "Your Graces," he greets, with a warmed smile. "How are the both of you? I trust Harvest went well?"

Phineas reaches for a goblet that's resting on the table, lifting it to sip at the contents thereof. He glances to Raziel and a wry grin etches his features. "Harvest was great, better than ever. I didn't have any mishaps at the fire jump this year. How're things here? The troubles goin' on settling down at all?"

Duke Raziel grimaces, slightly. "Some have quelled, but solutions not found. Others have presented themselves. A rogue Order of Mages attempted to poison several of us, in attempt to get some lore and ancient artifacts. We remain in persuit of them," he says, in a rather mild tone. Yet, his eyes suggest there's a personal vendetta that remains to be settled, upon the Duke's half. "But, for now they have retreated into hiding. They've also threatened those of Athar's order. Skilled, at poisons. Bastards."

Aileana takes her place beside her husband, just listening to the talk of the mages and poisoning. She does hold a mug of ale in hand and drinks some of it.

A slow narrowing of Phin's gaze is a thoughtful one. "Mages who have skill at alchemy, who have a reason to threaten the Purists and.. anyone else in particular?"

Duke Raziel remarks, "They are called the Izengabe. And, were after something called the Adamant; attacked the last living member of the Order of Adamant. Poisoned Serath severely; his lungs are - liquifying, from what I've been told. Iowerth has managed to slow the poisons. The rest of us were afflicted by Cloudbyne. It's spores can cause hallucinigenic affects, and is quite toxic. In very, very small doses, it's used on occasion to heighten sight or hearing. Several of us were put in the infirmary for several days, for it. Heard the dead. It was quite - unpleasent. I plan to hang them all. Slowly." He frowns a measure, then notes, "I do not know if it's related to the beheadings, and the vicious murders, or not. But, it is something that needs dealing with, just the same."

Aileana's brows shoot up now, "And how does one get these spores? How did you get them? This is all very disturbing." She then looks to her husband, "Do we want to start these discussions and hope Duchess Draught joins us?"

"Izengabe?" Phineas echoes with a grunt. "See, ya know they are a bunch of lame dumbass fucks. They can't even pick an order name that doesn't sound like a sneeze." He sips from his goblet, humor dark. "I'm glad you're alright, then. I'll be curious about what the alchemical stuff is, though I just dabble in it rarely these days." Just enough to get done what he might want. He heads to take a seat, considering his wife. "Maybe. We're waiting for her, Raziel, and we are going to tell Philip ta come talk to us. Want ta make sure that this whole thing is peaceful, and see where his head is, have him present before us. Since he's getting ready to do something, if he has support."

Duke Raziel shakes his head, then runs a hand through his hair, and nods. It's clear he's not fond of the task before them, "Very well," he says, quietly, with a nod. Then, almost as if it's a pleasent distraction, he tells Ana, "It is from a plant that grows atop a few hills in certain places of Mists. Difficult to get to, but not unheard of, nor altogether uncommon to heighten one's senses. It's dried form billows in the air, easily; and the manor to which we had to go to, to rescue Tiege Soranus and Matthew Wyndham proved to be trapped with it strewn within the dust upon the floor of the - abandoned - as it were, manor up north, near the Cove." Smirking, he nods to Phineas as well, "Both. Though, also clever. They know how to hide. But they exposed themselves, rather blatantly. And, they pissed me off." He moves to sit, then, after taking a drink for himself, if such is provided.

Aileana scolds her husband briefly with, "Finn, really." She then listens to Raziel and moves to take a seat, chugging a few gulps of ale after she does.

The center of the table has both wine glasses and mugs, and a few bottles of ale as well as a fine red and white, chilling and open.

"What?" Phineas asks toward Ana, a brow lifting. He looks back at Raziel. "Well, any leads? You going ta be able to catch up with them?" He doesn't hurry to the other business, not with Cate still absent.

Duke Raziel nods, "A few. Though, they will take some time to look into," he admits to Phineas, dryly. "And, Serath could use some measure of antidote, or better healing soon. Iowerth is doing what he can, but currently, alas, it's not quite enough." He sips his wine, slowly, then exhales a long, slow breath.

Phineas rubs his chin for a few moments, a thoughtful look at his features. "Somethin' Mat's getting on his trip might help. Don't know precisely when he'll be back, though." He relaxes in his seat, a lazy sprawl, and reaches for some sliced peach.

Duke Raziel taps the armrest of his chair, and looks to Phineas, and asks, curiously, "And how is it that you know so much of the countries outside our Barrier, Phineas? I know you journeyed out there a bit, but, you seem to have a flare for knoweldge of items to procure of worth and note. I sent a few gems, and items of jewelry with Addison to trade for rarities; and things she measured worthy as potential components," he admits.

Aileana's lips quirk into a slight smile at Raziel's question, "Well, ya know, Finn. He's just resourceful that way." She chuckles and then drinks a little more ale.

A grin answers Aileana's comment. "One of the things he's going after is something I told him to, something that I had the pleasure of picking up once before," Phineas says with a passing shrug. "It's been something I meant to go get myself eventually, but haven't gotten around ta it."

Duke Raziel gives Phineas a curious glance, "Right," he says, merely shaking his head, both mildly smiling and giving him quite a suspicious sort of look. "We can talk about that later, then." He takes another sip of his wine.

"You can talk about it now too, you know?" Aileana laughs and shakes her head, "Don't mind me any. We need something to talk about to pass the time."

"Avanna. When I went to Avanna with Vox and Phoebe, had our international incident, we were there to get a fruit. Necromantic, I guess, but it does some exceptional healing. Hard to get, sort of..." Phineas grimaces in memory. "I think that in Avanna, they're sacrificing people to the tree. Its fruits are like... shaped like faces. Its sap is bloody."

Duke Raziel nods, once. "Aye. I was told they held such." He pauses, noting, "I asked Addison to attempt to get something similar, knowing that. Yet, I knew little more of the tree or the fruit than it's properties. And, I gave Master Tiege a device to aid him in stealth, since he has little merit to protect himself by. Addison is a clever girl, and has proven her worth in a pinch. Let us hope there's not another incident, then."

"Who all went to get this? Just a bunch of teenagers?" Aileana asks with some wrinkle to her brow, "Who is their adult advisor?"

"They don't get one. They're all of the age to be adults, and they got the situation laid out for them. They're all older than Rourke was when he ran the Empire," Phineas says firmly, though not without concern.

Aileana presses her lips together and then nods, "Or me when I became Duchess. I just...worry about..you know, foreign nations." She then just shrugs and drinks more.

Duchess Catelyn comes in from the entrance to the Green Fields tower.

Duke Raziel suggests, "Addison has been in far more dire straights, I think, than anything that could assail her across the seas, Your Grace. Doubtless, peril will find them in one form, or another. But each of them are skilled, in their own right. And it will test them, most certainly. But, I have no doubt in their capability to see such ends through," he tells the Fields Duchess, with a calm measure of certainty.

Phineas, Aileana, and Raziel are seated around the table, bottles of wine and ale on it and a number of fresh fruits, finger foods, pie. They are already chatting, but apparently not about the matter at hand.

Phineas gives a slight grin at Aileana. "You're worried about politics. Hopefully they'll be smart, but this is the sort of thing where we see if Mathis has the potential to have political balls or not." He shrugs, sips at his wine. "I do hope they all come back fine, though. Fond of all of them."

Aileana does give a small to Catelyn and smiles brieflyl, "Your Grace Draught." She then nods to Raziel, "I'm trying to mother everyone again. I do that."

The Duchess Draught, again, is just a little bit late to show up, but she's here. She smiles at Aileana warmly, "Duchess Green Fields," as her steps carry her deeper into the dining room.

Duke Raziel rises, and bows slightly to Catelyn, "Duchess," he greets her with a faint smile, "Welcome." He seats himself again, and takes yet another sip of wine.

Phineas looks over at Cate, and he dips his head for the Draughtian Duchess. "Cate, how are you?" he asks with easy warmth. He waves toward the liquor and food. "Care to sit and join us? We can move on to other things. Philip's supposed to come by, talk with us."

Catelyn smiles at both Raziel and Phineas warmly, "Duke Mists, Duke Green Fields." She makes her way to the table and takes a seat getting herself neither food or drink. "Is he?" She asks of Phineas, "Should be interesting."

Aileana just takes a sip of her ale now, "So do we want to talk about anything before he gets here or just wait for him?"

The Green Fields Duke allows the quiet thought, "Well, it'd be good to hear his plan, and be sure that the man who walks into this room is the one that we all think we can work with as duke. A strong leader, and not a dumbass like he was when he was a kid. I want to know that this won't come to violence, much as possible. Anyone else got anything they want?"

Aileana nods to Phineas then and leans over to whisper something to him.

Duke Raziel considers, "I want to know what's going to happen to Arianell, and Eadric, and exactly how this is going to take place." He inclines his head to Phineas, "And, with as little violence as possible; preferrably none."

"I prefer as little violence as possible in this as well," Catelyn agrees with both Phineas and Raziel. "I've made this known to him as well." She folds her hands, "He seems to have matured quite a bit over the last couple of years, from what I have seen of him anyway."

Phineas gives his own nod to Raziel. "I ain't into seeing them assassinated. They're non-political folks, and that's really something where they shouldn't die for the fact that they were put in this position." Then he listens to Aileana, allowing another slow nod. "Yeah. He needs to be the hell over Isolde. He has to be ready to marry for whatever political purpose is needed."

Aileana takes another sip of her ale then, "I agree with that, and she's pregnant too."

Duke Raziel lifts his glass to Phineas, "I had figured that much; still, I would know how they're being ushered out of the picture, and what, exactly, happens to them. Turned to Dowager status, and given a comfortable life by which to attend to their simple ways? Or?" He leaves that hanging, briefly in the air, adding, "Your forgiveness, Your Grace," to Catelyn, "But I would also have assurance that Isolde has nothing to do with Philip, any longer as well. Also, as liked as he is perhaps, we would need assurance that if Guardians is being returned to direct Barca control and rule that the people would embrace it and accept it. I'll not have a third revolution, another year from now because of what was done in past times, and the people simply aren't satisfied, or fresh memories are dug into anew by actions taken. Strength is neccessary, in leadership. But, so is stability. Continued changes of power will only further degrade Guardians."

If Catelyn is at all offended at the talk of Isolde, it doesn't show on her face at all, thoughts concealed behind the courtly, neutral mask. "I don't believe that you'll find Isolde to be much of a problem for Philip anymore, nor do I have any visions of her as Duchess of Guardian. I agree that he need be prepared to wed someone for political purpose, and not someone of his choosing given previous choices he's made."

Phineas nods to Cate and Ana, then considers the duke of Mists. "There's something ya need to realize, Raziel. Guardian isn't at peace. The war may have ended, but there's enough discontent on there that it's going to boil over to war again sometime soon. Those who are Barca loyal are still sticking with the Barca family, and just like even Lazarus's kid is still in the line in Mists, there are folks still thinking Nell's just some sympathy fuck. She's about as Barca as a mop. There are wounds there not healed. Nell and Eadric never had any sort of public surrender of any claim on the seat by Philip, and what's going on beneath the surface is going to poison the whole isle if there's no conclusion. Conway've held the dukedom for a year and some. Barca held it for generations, like the Karanganias. Somehow, that has ta be answered. And maybe it would have been, if Rourke had a hand in things a lot. Or maybe if Nell and Eadric had an ounce more of political knowledge." He shrugs. "You ready for me to send for him?"

Aileana nods to her husband, "I am. Thank you." She does reach for a small plate and starts to fill it with berries.

Catelyn adds softly, "It also seems, if rumors are to be believed, that bloodshed has already started, though on the Conway side. I have heard that Barcas and their supporters have been targeted in recent months. That alone is enough to fuel the fire of war again, for those that support the Barca claim."

Duke Raziel admits, "My attention of late has mostly been to my own Isle, and Gateway, due to - circumstances already discussed." Frowning, he nods slowly to Phineas, "But, I trust your input on it. You're not a man to speak anything but your mind, and plain at that." Then, he gives a consenting nod to send for Philip, adding, "Then let us find the most amiable manner to settle this dispute, for all of the Empire."

Phineas pushes to his feet and wanders toward the door, taking his goblet along. Once he gets there he calls down, "Hey, send that missive, right? And then after ya see him in, take the night off."

Aileana just watches her husband as he takes his leave, "Well, this should be interesting." And then she scoots her chair back and stretches her legs in front of her so that she can just look relaxed for a few minutes, "Harvest really was interesting. Someone totally tried to hurt me."

Duke Raziel blinks once at Aileana, and nods, "I'm glad to see," he says, quite sincerely, "They were unsuccessfull. Did you manage to catch them?" His brow creases, curiously, and he looks between the two Fieldians as they wait for Philip to arrive.

"Yes, we caught them...well, other people did." Aileana gives a small nod, "But I had a headache for a while."

Philip comes in from the entrance to the Green Fields tower.

Phineas gives an easy nod of agreement with Ana. "I had a bit of a talk with them. Roscoe is one of our regular bandits, never been much of a danger before. But now.. he's got a red palm, and a couple of years of hard labor." And that's how the Fields deal with criminals.

The ducal figures are seated around a table where there are bottles, glasses, tankards, fruits, finger foods, and pie. They all seem to be at ease in their conversation.

There's a soft knock on the door, a respectful pause, and then the door opens to Baron Caerdach, who enters and immediately offers a bow toward the gathered ducal figures. "Your Graces," he intones politely, eyes scanning from Catelyn to Phineas first, and then toward Ana and Raziel. "I am honored to be here."

Duke Raziel inclines his head, briefly to Philip, taking a slow and measured sip of wine, allowing others to begin the queries of the Baron.

Aileana nods to Philip as he arrives, "Good evening. Please, have a seat and enjoy some food while we all have us a nice little talk."

"Baron, good to see you again," Catelyn greets Philip politely, nodding to him.

Philip takes a pause for a deep breath and then nods to Ana's direction, finding a chair and relaxing as much as he can into it. He bypasses the food for the moment but does find a full tankard to pull close and sip from while he listens to hear the subject of conversation. "Thank you," is offered to Ana with a smile, and a "You as well" to Catelyn, both muttered quietly so as not to interrupt any other conversation that might be about to pick up.

Phineas reaches for his own goblet, set down temporarily. He downs a deep drink as his dark eyes consider Philip Barca, thoughtful. He inclines his head. "Baron. Or so the title sits at the moment. Welcome. We're all here to have a very frank talk, and obviously all for our own motivations, and the things we want to see done. We here," he gestures to the rest at the table, "find interest in Guardian having stronger leadership. That seems to coincide with your own plans. Yes?"

At ease with others leading the course of conversation for once, Duke Mists merely settles back into his chair, producing a pipe from the confines of his jacket, as well as a pouch of tobacco, the goblet of wine thus set aside for the moment. He begins to fill the pipe as a man whose filled a pipe for the last twenty years of his life, without thought or worry of spilling the leaf. Mismatched eyes of hazel and blue, warmth and chill, regard the Baron of Guardian with calm demeanor, inquistive, and perhaps a slight thoughtful. Another pocket dug into, a match struck, and the pleasent, pungent aroma of pipesmoke fills the room.

Having had this conversation one-on-one numerous times, Philip has thus far maintained plausible deniability. But now it's time to put up or shut up. Carefully choosing his words, he nods. "Indeed. I think there is widespread agreement that the current Duke and Duchess have not been strong leaders. Quite below my own expectations, and I presume many others."

Aileana is really just quiet at this point, content to eat berries, drink ale and listen to the details until a question comes along.

Catelyn is quiet at first as she listens to Philip speak, nodding to him. "One of the concerns that was mentioned is how it's going to take place." She folds her hands in her lap neatly, "Do you have any plans thus far? Any ideas of what will become of the current Duke and Duchess?"

Duke Raziel takes a gentle toke off his pipe, easy and relaxed. A faint nod of agreement to Catelyn, but he yet remains otherwise silent, perhaps biding time to speak; or, merely observing Philip in a more studious way, the Baron's words, and interactions, answers, and poise to which he will make later judgement by.

Phineas inclines his head at the commentary from Philip, and then relaxes more when Cate's question si given. He seems as interested in his drink as he is in any answer that Philip might give to Cate's question.

"I have some plans, which I am refining as I become more aware of my situation. I have spoken of support with you, your Grace," spoken to Phineas, followed by a look toward Catelyn, "And you. Am I to understand Duke Mists is also considering support?" He pauses, and then explains further. "I hope to avoid bloodshed. It is my intention to arrange the pieces... if you'll excuse the chess analogy... to show overwhelming strength. And then, from that position, I will make demands, and then hopefully negotiate to a conclusion that is mutually acceptable," says Philip.

"Yeah, but what options for them? Let's be clear, Eadric doesn't know a sword from his ass, and Nell's a gal who should never be in that spot. I think all of us want assurances that, no matter what, their lives will be free, comfortable, and financially taken care of," Phineas says with dark eyes affixed upon the baron who would be duke.

"The proposal has some merit," speaks Raziel, quietly. "And, from one who has done what you seek to do, there is a measure of awareness of need, Baron," says the Duke, quietly after withdrawing the pipe from between his lips. "And similar to such moves as I, myself made. But, be aware; I will not give support to bloodshed. They will be seen to, comfortably, as Duke Green Fields has suggested, or my consideration is withdrawn. Death without cause is murder, and neither Eadric or Arianell have warranted either; quite the opposite. Both are good folk, merely lacking fortitude and prowess your people respect. The situation that befell them was not of their choosing, or of their plans."

Philip nods politely toward Phineas. "That is most certainly my intention, Your Grace. I hesitate to say no matter what, because I don't know how they will react. But I certainly know that they could easily have sent me to the same fate as my sister when they assumed power, and chose not to, accepting me as one of their family, and I fully intend to repay that respect. If I become Duke, there will be need for someone to run Caerdach."

Aileana's brows rise at those words then, "So you will make them Baron and Baroness of Caerdach? That's honorable if a little awkward."

Phineas opens his mouth to comment, but his wife beats him too it. So therefore, he's opened his mouth to drink. And he does.

Philip replies quickly toward Ana, "I am not opposed. As I mentioned earlier, I intend to negotiate. I will be open to other proposals as well. Certainly this issue is much more complex than an exchange of titles."

Duke Raziel suggests, calmly, "It is. And, I at the very least, would know further of your plans and procedures before I lend it full support. I can appreciate you are moving to solidify your Isle, and it's people, Baron." There is a pause, and he gestures, to the other Duke, and Duchesses present, "And even as they had reservations when I sought to ease Lazarus out of Mists less it grow weak and stagnant, so do I with you, despite my appreciation for your mind. How then would you seek to show this - strength, and unity of the Isle behind you in your bid? I will not pretend to understand the mindset and politics of the folk upon Guardian, overmuch. And it is not, certainly, like unto that of Mists."

As Raziel's question is put forth, Phineas glances to the man and gives a slight nod. These are the same sort of issues that were wrestled with years ago, over Mists.

Aileana is once again silent until she finds reason to interrupt, which is not now. She drinks some more ale.

"The isle will unify behind a Barca," Philip says with complete confidence. "A Barca has led the isle for centuries. It was even an understanding of this necessity that led to the Duke's marriage to Duchess Arianell, but unfortunately her distant Barca lineage was unknown to most of the people and has not been a priority to establish. The people of Caerdach, and most of Crucible as well, still see my immediate family as rightful holders of the title. There is unrest, and that unrest will not end until my family is restored to power. The current leadership does not see this, and has failed to lead the isle toward unity." He pauses looking down at his tankard of ale and then back up toward Raziel. "Between Caerdach and Crucible, the ports are loyal to me. With the support of Duke Green Fields, I will have a free flow of supplies, and can withhold them from any who oppose me. With support of Draught, I can say the same of healer support. I would love to embrace the support of mages as well, Your Grace. I would have the means to outlast anyone in a protracted engagement, but I intend to offer immediate parlay."

Duchess Aileana does continue to remain silent and listen to the explanation as she nibbles on an apple slice. Her expression is neutral, but interested.

Phineas gestures with his goblet toward Philip, asking wryly, "Immediate parlay after what, precisely? You have a plan. My support stands, but tell us what your plan is. We want someone in the position of duke that we can work with, and this is something which will affect the entire empire. Lay it out."

Catelyn is quiet as she simply listens to Philip, Phineas and Raziel speak.

Duke Raziel does not seem entirely convinced. He opines, quietly, "So you would seek to restrain supplies, healers, and magic from those who oppose you. And create, by that, enemies?" He pauses, noting, "Understand I see this with a mind set to the policies on Mists, and from what I understand, Baron. It seems to me, however, that an opposing force that has it's arm twisted to yield until it cries 'Uncle' will not exactly be an ally, when you seek to take power unto yourself." There is another pause, as he draws from the pipe, regarding Philip with a measure of study. "You speak of having much support. How many of the Baronies support you? I will not lend my consideration to a method that leads to further warfare and strife a year, two - three, down the road. As I spoke to my compatriarchs, strength is needed to lead. However, so is stability. And I will not invest in setting another up, only to have civil war strike again from unhappy Lordships, and Baronies who were broken not by words or convinced of strength but through unhappy means which stokes fires of rage and revenge."

"There is a term in chess called Zugzwang, your grace," Philip replies to Raziel after pausing to take a sip. "It occurs when it is your move, and your opponent has placed pieces in such a matter that you have no good choices. In the rare occasions in which I have found myself on the wrong end of those situations, I have resigned my position with the utmost respect for the one who outplayed me. Arm twisted? Perhaps, if I had played on in futility. The Duke and Duchess are intelligent people. I do not believe they will see their arms being twisted. They will simply recognize the situation and, it is my hope, that they will give me the same respect for a strategic victory that I initially gave them as a result of the military one. They chose to leave me as an ally, and I hoped to fully support their leadership. Unfortunately they have done very little since to earn that support."

"Philip," Phineas says with his magnanimous tone, "How do ya intend ta present this? I think Raziel stole all yer focus, but there's a point I'm still waiting for. What -are- ya going to do?"

"My apologies, your grace," Philip smiles toward Phineas. "I wanted to address the more difficult question first. Put simply, I plan to travel to the Ducal seat, in Caerdach, and make a speech claiming it. In that speech, I will describe the support I have." He pauses to look around the room, making eye contact with every ducal figure. "Having tangible demonstrations of such support will make my case stronger, and I would hope to seek that from each of you."

Phineas looks dow na bit to cover a chuckle. "Balls. Well, that's Guardian style, I s'pose. Not quite the same as other places."

Philip lifts his mug to sip. "And how woud you do it, your grace?" he asks, refraining from hypothesizing whether it would occur in a tavern.

Aileana looks to Phineas and scolds mildly, "Finn..." She then chuckles and looks back to Philip, "If we were taking Guardians? I imagine we'd handle it over a good drinking game." She then winks.

Catelyn laughs softly at Ana's remark, "I wouldn't expect anything less from Guardian's in truth. We should be thankful that it doesn't start with an attack as the previous time with the Conways."

Duke Raziel considers Philip, and his proposed method. "You've yet to state which support of your own folk you carry, Baron," he points out, remaining uncommitted.

Phineas gives Aileana a sidelong look and a casual, "What?" Then to Philip he smirks. "I'd get betrothed to someone who was in line to inherit, eliminate anyone in the way, and then take out the current ruler." His smirk is satisfied, even though he's about to get hit by his wife.

And, yes, Phineas really does get hit by his wife, smacking his shoulder once as she says, "Phineas Ashlan! You are such a jerk sometimes!" She then leans over and whispers something to him.

Philip has to smirk toward Phineas, but refrains from commenting, letting Ana do that hard work. He turns back with a more serious look to Raziel. "I have the support of the majority of the people of Guardian," he explains in simple terms. "I have firm commitments of support from other Barons, and am maintaining cognizance of other plans that are underway which will increase that support. Out of respect for those who are sticking their necks out for me, I wish to avoid giving specific names, but I can assure you that restoration of the proper order of things will sit well with the vast majority of the people, and the nobility."

Duke Raziel does not look completely satisfied at Philip's answer, even if he might understand it. He nods, once, and states simply, "I will think upon this, some more," he says, quietly. "But a matter of this magnitude cannot be decided upon in one, or two evenings of consideration, and discourse with those who would seek it. I appreciate your candor, and your initiative, Baron. And, I may wish to speak to you at length, later, to better find my mind in this."

"So, let me get this straight. You're going there, setting up shop in the capital, declaring yourself duke and stating who all supports you in this, and saying that they have to come parlay with you? There you intend to present them with the fact that they're checkmated, and offer them the barony?" Phineas squints at Philip, restating the matter with a deliberate precision to it.

"Well, it does sound very Guardians." Aileana admits as she looks to her husband, "Unlike your rather Draughtian way to take over Green Fields." She then smiles to Catelyn, "No offense meant. It just was with poisons and what not."

"As far as plans go, this seems to me the most likely to result in peace," Catelyn remarks as she looks down the table to Raziel. "I believe this is our chance to see it done with as little bloodshed as possible, inaction will likely result in more lives." She glances at Ana with a hint of a smirk, not denying the comment at all. It's hard to when you make the poisons.

"Perhaps," Raziel states to Catelyn, "But, forgive me if I warrant to the end of caution. I wish peace for Guardian as well. Thus my reason to not rush into this, and know it is the best course to take," he tells the Draughtian Duchess. Before he can say more, however, a note is delivered into his hand, he frowns at it, deeply, "Forgive me," he says, rising, and setting the goblet aside. "I have another matter that cannot wait to be attended to. We will pick this up at another time, Baron."

"That's the gist of the ... action, yes," Philip replies to Phineas. "But I will also arrange support to be in place. I will be secure in the castle against any assault. I will have loyalists already controlling the ports and distribution of any supplies." He gestures around the room. "I will hopefully have tangible demonstrations of your support as well." Pausing a moment, he looks around the room, then nods as Raziel departs.

"G'night, Raziel," Phineas says to the Mistian duke. "I'm sure we'll talk more soon."

Raziel returns to the entryway.

Aileana looks to her husband then, "Well? This seems fair, right? Doesn't it? Ballsy, but fair."

"Yeah, well enough." The Green Fields Duke nods to his wife, then considers the prospective duke. "So, about Raziel.. do we need him? Do you? The trouble is that mages can tip the balance easily. There a couple that you can hire to be backup and a display of strength for you?"

"There are always people willing to work for pay," Catelyn remarks to the group casually, gaze on the door. "Mages can tip the scales, but would the current Duke and Duchess think to use them? I know that some in their family have a dislike for mages, so much so that they might refuse or not think to use them."

Philip looks toward Aileana at her comment. "Your Grace, I see very little choice, to be honest. This is not my first choice of how things should go. I had certainly hoped to support a strong leadership. I had hoped the people would unite behind a Barca relative. I had hoped that the current rulers would at least address the division in the country, perhaps demand ... arm twist, if you will... demonstrations of loyalty and pleas to our people from those of us who lost family members to the civil war. They have done none of that. They have assumed people will support them simply because. They are nice people, but they are not the leaders Guardian demands." He clears his throat, looking around at the room. "I do not do this because I seek it. I certainly do not seek the power. But I feel it is my duty, and I thus am pursuing it as my responsibility, not just to Guardian, but to the empire." He pauses again, taking a deep breath, and then addresses Phineas's question. "I do not need his support as much as I need assurance he will not work against me. But unanimity among all the other isles would add enough value that it is worth pursuing. And we have some time... I only need to act before the imperial family becomes tied to Guardian's future."

Phineas listens to Philip's comment, some twist to his lips before he inclines his head. "Reasonable indeed. And Cate.. I'd like to say no, but Eadric's not as provencial as some of the others of Guardian. He's the sort who really could use magic. So, best just to be sure. Maybe we could flat out hire the Mogur. Want me to check on that?"

"Yes, I can see Eadric using mages, but that alone could turn some Guardian's off to his cause," Catelyn remarks thoughtfully, "Could it not? It's no secret that many on Guardian have no love of magic."

"I think, politically, it's best to limit it to the council, your grace," Philip replies to Phineas. "And Duchess Draught has a point. It is not as important to use magic, as to be certain it is not used against. A pledge of noninvolvement would suffice."

Phineas looks between Cate and Philip, a brow quirked. "Well. I think yer making a mistake not to hedge yer bets on something quite as important as this, but I'm happy ta bow out and be wrong."

"I'm not saying not to," Catelyn clarifies to Phineas, "Merely thinking outloud. At the very least, I would want a pledge of noninvolvement from the Duke Mists so that you wouldn't have to worry about him placing the power behind the current Ducal couple. I'm not sure he would be so foolish as to do that, knowing that he would stand against two other isles."

"Does anyone have any idea how the Emperor and Empress will react to this?" Philip asks. "I know I am not high on his list." He looks to the three ducal figures.

Aileana is once again silent and nibbling on some fruit as she considers the dilemma. She finally adds, "Can you make some sort of agreement that would make him more amendable? Something that would long term look beneficial to Mists in particular?"

This question Phineas has an answer to already. "I know for a fact that their Majesties plan on staying out of it, but yeah, Rourke still ain't so fond of you. Make it decisive." Then he looks to Aileana, thoughtful. "What is good for Mists that Guardian would give? Some special silver... some componenty thing..."

"Increased use of their magics?" Aileana offers with a smile, "I mean, if he would pledge that an increase of ten percent of all weapons made on Guardians will go to Mists to be enchanted for strength or something like that, then it increases his economy."

Philip seems content to stop talking for the moment, and drinks his ale, absorbing the information from the other leaders for future reference.

"Guardian doesn't only have weapons," Catelyn remarks thoughtfully, "They have the mines as well, raw goods that mages could likely use and don't have in abundance on Mists. Stone, metals, things they need but don't have a lot of on their own."

"Perhaps right when ya head to Guardian, I'll pay a visit to the Mogur, and hint how sullying it would be for any mages to get into this conflict, that it should be something left to Guardian. That might be the way to handle it," Phineas says, mostly to himself, his thoughts having gone in a circle.

"This truly is a Guardian issue," Philip replies respectfully to Phineas. "Although clearly we need support if we are to work together for the good of the empire. And Duchess Draught is quite correct in pointing out the value of our mines. Our gems are not nearly as famous as they ought be, much as Draught is showing that it is much more than herbs." Green Fields, of course, is still all about drinking, so Philip doesn't touch that one. "I would appreciate you conversing with the Mogur, and I will follow up with Duke Mists." He pauses, closing his eyes. "I do think that is about all we can discuss this eve. I have some thinking to do. I want to reiterate that I share everyone's concerns about violence. I have no intention of starting... er, continuing, a civil war. My intention is to bring the isle together under strong leadership with a minimum of bloodshed. Zero, ideally."

"Well then, since we're all on the same page, I think that you can get support from the Fields right now. What do you wish, a letter that says we acknowledge you as duke, with the seal of the Green Fields crest?" Phineas asks, a canny look given to the Barca. "Some ships lined up and ready to transport supplies where you wish?"

"I agree." Aileana replies as she rises, her mug of ale now empty. She then rests a hand on Phineas's shoulder, allowing him to finish up the details now.

Catelyn too looks to Philip for an answer on what he needs to show support from Draught on his cause.

"I think both of the above would be ideal," Philip smiles toward Phineas. "Liberal quantities of ale as well," he adds with a wink, but then grows more serious. "And weapons. I would wish to arm my loyal populace, or be ready to do so, even if I hope that is not necessary. From Draught, your full support, and healers at the ready. I do not wish to claim to withhold healers from those who oppose me, of course. Perhaps we can discuss whether any herbs might contribute to improved defensiveness."

"It would not be you who withheld healers, if such were to happen," Catelyn tells Philip calmly. "As for enchancements, potions is what you would want, not herbs. There are things that will help you to move faster, see better at night, hear better, be stronger, stay awake longer and stave off hunger if need be. There are more, of course, but those are simply what I can think of off the top of my head."

"A ready supply of such, and those knowledgeable in helping my supporters use them, then," Philip nods to Catelyn. "Do you think either of you would be able to... distract the present Duke and Duchess in any way? Perhaps arrange for a... tour of your lands? And deliver them to Guardians just in time for the parlay?"

Phineas thinks about that a minute. "Likely something could be arranged, though why do you want them off Gateway?" he asks, curious.

Philip shrugs. "I can envision me being off on Guardian claiming title, and they sitting here in the tower saying, "Ho, hum. Let's attend a council meeting."

"Ah, so ya want them definitely on Guardian? I don't think that's a trouble you'll have, really, but if ya need someone to make sure they come, we can do that," Phineas allows with a glance at Ana and Cate .

Catelyn chuckles wryly, "I could possibly distract the Duke, though the Duchess is not likely to desire a tour of my Isle, unless.." There is a protracted silence from her, "Perhaps I could have the Baron Ethos invite her for a tour."

"Well, the plan ... and a minimum of suffering of the people... depends on a prompt parlay," Philip answers. "Theirs has been a history of inaction. I do not wish to assume that they'll jump on the first ship to Guardian, I'd like it to be more assured." He frowns. "Perhaps I am overthinking this."

Phineas smirks at Philip. "Yup. You are. You send word, and if they decide to ignore it, you just keep spreading out and solidifying your rule. Look for a Conway gal, maybe, or some bride to help set it in stone. Delaying for them will only weaken their position, really. We'll send you updates if they do that."

"I'm sure that they will go if you are claiming the ducal seat for yourself," Catelyn tells Philip. "They may have a history of inaction, but that move alone with go above and beyond in proving your case. Their not showing up would hurt them and I don't believe they are that stupid."

"I can't imagine them not doing something when it's this big." Aileana replies as she squeezes Phineas's shoulder gently.

"A Conway gal," Philip muses with a smirk. "Ought to be many to choose from. Although that was something I was going to have available as a negotiating tool. Indeed, I suppose with your support they have no reason to stay here." He finally rises. "I wish this were not necessary. I do bid you a good eve."

Phineas inclines his head to Philip. "Thank you for your time, Philip. Green Fields'll have a letter written up honoring you as Duke Barca, and our seals to it. It'll be there tomorrow."

Philip nods to Phineas. "Thank you, your Grace. I will speak with Duke Mists when I can, and let you know when I plan to act. Perhaps it will take another cycle of the currents."

Aileana gives a nod then, "Have a good night, Baron." She then looks to Catelyn, "Thank you for coming. If you don't mind, I may slip upstairs to prepare for bed. I'm a little tired."

"I think you can afford to wait for that, but if you can talk to him soon, all the better." Phineas stifles a yawn, leaning toward his wife. "Good night, Philip."

Philip bows around the room, and takes his leave.

"Fuckin' Raziel." Phineas wrinkles his nose. "It's because he wants to bone Nell."

Aileana reaches out and smacks Finn's shoulder once, "Finn! Honestly! I'm going to bed." And then she starts to walk out though at the door, she glances back with an expression her husband would know well.

"Probably," Catelyn says dryly, glancing back at the door that Philip disappears through. "He can be convinced. He probably just needs reassurance that he won't risk his new position by doing this." She gets to her feet slowly to allow the Fielder couple their night. Someone may as well get some!

A low laugh comes from Phineas as he gets to his feet. "Cate, thanks for bein' so solid on this. You've got some nads on you. We can get with Raziel after Philip does, too," he says, dragging a hand through his hair. "You have a good night." Yup. He's getting some. Despite her earlier warning.

"You too, Phineas," Catelyn smiles at him as she passes, slipping through the door and then on out of the tower to head home for the night!