The Staples family in Millfall was not the only one discussing Viscount Symons' downfall as an opportunity. All eight of the remaining noble families in the city were talking about it at the crack of dawn.
Some wanted to do what Shelby wanted to do: sent their proposals to the capital, signaling their interest in taking over the Symons family lands.
Others, however, talked about it, pondering who had the best chance of promotion and the consequences.
Rising through the ranks of the nobility was a complex process, even in such unusual situations. It wouldn't be enough to have a noble title to compete in the way Shelby wanted.
Viscount families were not stronger and more relevant just because of their higher titles. They usually had more capabilities than Baron families, who may or may not be able to fulfill the obligations of a higher-ranked title.
