@IcarusDescension an idea like that can work! However, Hellvion is no longer participating in the war, just remaining 'at peace' and more or less will not support any war efforts, be it in battle, supplying soldiers, or money. The soldiers they DO have, during this time in the war's story, will be used to simply protect the Hellvion Duchy, and nothing more. So more or less this duchy is giving the Grand Duke the cold soldier since their castle had been attacked and the ruling Duchess and Duke are not pleased!
I was also playing around with the current Duke dying and the Duchess takes over, proclaiming herself as the supreme ruler, despite the laws stating men rule the duchies. I think that, in itself, could be an interesting twist as well, as I role play the Duchess of Hellvion so I can easily pull her strings in this effect.
Anywho, going off on Icarus's idea! The mages are still fighting against the government in hopes to get the upper hand. And knowing the Grand Duke is weak having no more unanimous support between the duchies to back him, it IS possible a group pf rebels might eye the ship and still be pissed at the duchy of Hellvion for wasting the money on such a thing.
They could plan to use it for their own case (like take it apart and sell it for money, or just simply sell the ship outright!), or they could just be angry enough to want to sink it, letting the Duchy of Hellvion know that despite having with drawn from the war, their ignorance will not protect them!
Or some such!
Just an idea!
Thoughts?