Leon Paraspondylos (Strabospondylos ) was approached by the eastern generals (Isaakios (I) Komnenos, Katakalon Kekaumenos, Konstantinos (X) Doukas, Ioannes Doukas and Michael Bourtzes), to mediate on their behalf with Michael VI over promotions. This was their second attempt, having failed in a direct approach to the emperor at Easter. They alone (they said) should not be left unrewarded when all benefited from Michael's generosity, especially as the rest lived comfortably, while they stood at arms, fighting for the Roman realm. He rejected their requests, and even sent them away with insults