I agree on the one hand, but disagree because as I see it a Grand Duke is meant to rival the faction leader and heir.

I'm also still not completely sold on the entire rank system. Somehow, I think a few smaller regional groupings would be better than two or three massive houses. I have nothing to back this up, really, but it seems the little guys should be given a chance if they work together.

As such, I still think smaller houses are limited too much. Perhaps make Duke easier to gain, and Grand Duke harder? Or something along those lines?