A family emblem

In a corner of the square, several men were recruiting people to participate in the various types of organized tournaments. The three main ones were hand-to-hand combat, archery and the most glorious, just for the names, the joust.

Ethan, intrigued by the opportunity to participate in the tournaments in Highgarden's main square, approached the men who were recruiting participants. The tournaments offered an exciting opportunity to show off his skills and, who knows, win prizes that could be useful for him.

"Welcome, good man! Are you interested in participating in our exciting tournaments? We have a variety of competitions to suit all tastes." - said the tournament man enthusiastically.

"Sure, I'm interested in the hand-to-hand combat and archery tournaments. How can I sign up?" - Ethan responded.

The tournament man provided him with the necessary information and guided him through the registration process. Ethan decided to participate in both tournaments, feeling the thrill of competition running through his veins. He knew that these tournaments would be a great way to test his skills and gain recognition in the city.

Once the entire process was completed, they gave Ethan an iron medallion with a number engraved on it. His number was 23. The tournament would take place tomorrow after noon.

Ethan's entire group congratulated him and gave him good wishes for tomorrow. Excitement was in the air, and everyone was eager to see how Ethan would do in the competitions.

"Ethan, I'm sure you'll do great in the tournaments! You're a formidable fighter, and I'm sure you'll prove it." - Elara said with a smile.

"We're here to support you, friend. You'll win for sure!" - Dario agreed.

Leando stared at the three of them, with a sad face.

"I want to participate in the tournaments too, Ethan. It would be fun to compete together."

"I really appreciate your support and good wishes, but Leandro, you have responsibilities to attend to tomorrow. You have several things to take care of for our business. Also, I will be representing our group in the tournaments, so let me do my best this time. We will have more opportunities in the future." - Ethan finished saying, while touching his shoulder as a symbol of encouragement.

Leandro, although a little disappointed, understood the logic behind Ethan's words and nodded. He knew they still had a lot of work to do and he couldn't waste their time.

Ethan, noticing Leandro's disappointment at not being able to participate in the hand-to-hand combat and archery tournaments, tried to explain the situation gently.

"Leandro, I understand your enthusiasm for tournaments, but you should know that these local tournaments are not as important as those of knights. In reality, I will be competing mainly against villagers who seek fame and glory, not against renowned knights. The tournaments "Of the knights are the most prestigious, but we still have a long way to go before we can participate in them." - explained the young man.

Leandro nodded his head without saying anything else.

"Don't worry, friend. There will be many opportunities in the future. For now, let's focus on establishing our business here in Highgarden and showing what we can achieve. Plus, you will still be able to see me in action and, who knows, maybe you will be able to participate in the more important tournaments in the future." -he finished saying.

After enjoying the festivities in Highgarden's main square, the group decided to return to the tavern. Before doing so, however, they made a stop at a local blacksmith shop to purchase some armor parts that Ethan would need for the next day's tournaments.

The blacksmith shop was a place with a rustic atmosphere and full of forging tools and equipment. The blacksmith, a burly man with experience in his craft, helped them select the right pieces of armor for Ethan, making sure they fit properly and provided the necessary protection.

Ethan chose armor pieces that would give him a good mix of mobility and security for tournaments. With purchases made and equipment ready, the group headed back to the tavern, where they could rest before the big day of competition ahead.

Inside the tavern, Ethan and Elara were the two who could get a room to themselves. Leandro and Dario shared theirs.

Ethan, resting from the long day in his bed, thought about his future. He was determined to make his armor unique and reflect the identity of his house, House Astaroth.

With skill and precision, Ethan using Creator modified the breastplate creating an emblem in the center. He created two interlocking black swords, one longer than the other, on a golden shield. The blades of the swords were decorated with roses that rose towards the tips of the swords, giving a unique and elegant touch to the design.

After a few hours of work, the young man put on the armor with the customized emblem and modified parts. The young man was impressed and satisfied with the result.