Byzantine's ploys

Amidst the ranks of the Byzantine army, one man stood out conspicuously, dressed in ostentatious attire that bordered on the verge of absurdity. His garments were adorned with extravagant embellishments, and the layers of jewelry he wore seemed to jingle with every exaggerated step. The ensemble was so flamboyant that it threatened to elicit laughter from onlookers.

Undeterred by potential mockery, this eccentric figure moved forward with an air of theatricality. In a booming voice that carried across the assembled troops, he began to proclaim the illustrious titles and honors of Nikephoros Comnenoi Doukas. His announcements were delivered with an exuberance that bordered on the comical, yet they served the purpose of heralding the arrival of the Epirotian despot.