Court drama

The Duke of Ethwer's commanding voice echoed through the grand hall, silencing the chatter among the nobles.

"Do you not see our presence?" he demanded, his tone filled with authority. "Or has our family's strength been diminished in your eyes?" 

The nobles exchanged uneasy glances, feeling the overwhelming aura emanating from him. His reputation for fierce loyalty and unmatched prowess in battle was well known, and the air grew tense as they realized they had underestimated his influence. The room, once filled with self-promoting voices became quiet.

Suddenly, a man in his thirties, with long black hair and piercing dark eyes, grinned confidently.

His voice rang out clear and bold, "Your grace, if only family strength mattered on the battlefield!" 

A shocked silence fell over the grand hall. The nobles exchanged wary glances, their unease palpable as they realized the count's audacity.