The best way to stand out during wartime is — through military achievements.
The more achievements you have in your hands, the stronger your voice. This is the only chance for minor nobles to overcome their status restrictions and participate in the power discourse.
The Moxi Duchy is currently in a state of chaos, if the identity of the expeditionary force commander isn't leveraged to its maximum potential, it would be too much of a pity.
Hudson had no intention of dueling with the Orcs, but he was willing to plunder wealth from the Orcs with his troops, and polish his military achievements by defeating Orcs on the battlefield.
The growth of a great commander is a long process, apart from a few battles that would make them famous, most are minor battles–the key is to fight as many as possible.
Every battle contributes to one's experience.