The word is used in the context of the long-standing feud between the two families, the von Gradwitz and the Znaeym families. The story begins with Ulrich von Gradwitz patrolling his hunting grounds, anticipating a confrontation with Georg Znaeym, who he believes is trespassing. This anticipation of a potentially violent encounter is referred to as an "affray."
The word's use foreshadows the eventual confrontation that occurs between Ulrich and Georg, which, while not a direct fight, is still a tense and potentially dangerous encounter.
The story ultimately explores the themes of conflict, forgiveness, and reconciliation, and the "affray" serves as a symbol of the destructive nature of the long-standing feud between the families.