One month after

A month later, Ethan had fully integrated into the bustling and rich life of Highgarden. With the unconditional support of the influential House Tyrell, the Astaroth businesses prospered in the city. Their plum vodka had become one of the most sought-after spirits and beer was not far behind in terms of demand. The sound of coins jingled regularly, announcing the financial success that was knocking on the doors of House Astaroth.

But it wasn't just in the world of drinks where Ethan left his mark. He also demonstrated his skill in designing clothing, both for women and men, but always intended for high society. His unique creations began to attract the attention and recognition of the noble families of the Dominion. Demand for his clothing increased considerably, and his name spread rapidly as a renowned tailor.

Elara took over the management of the textile section, bringing with her an artistic vision and a keen eye for detail. Every seam and every fabric was carefully selected under her supervision. Dario, on the other hand, became the master behind the alcoholic beverages, managing everything from production to distribution. House Astaroth earned an enviable reputation for the quality of its products and business ethics.

Leandro and Sigrid, meanwhile, played a crucial role in training new members for the group. His experience in combat and strategy contributed to the formation of a team of 15 soldiers willing and able to protect the interests of House Astaroth in Highgarden. The strength and discipline they instilled in their unit were essential to the success of the business and security of the noble house.

Thus, the month passed between successes and constant growth. The Astaroth had become a respected and promising presence in the city, and Ethan was determined to continue climbing to new heights in his quest for prosperity and renown.

Ethan was in an enviable position in Highgarden. The prosperity of House Astaroth had attracted the attention of many minor noble houses who saw him as a valuable ally for their own interests. This manifested itself in a series of tempting invitations to move to other cities or castles within the Dominion.

The letters and invitations were not just a show of kindness, but a clear indication of how much they valued his presence and the great economic potential that House Astaroth represented. Lesser noble houses sought his experience in business, his growing reputation, and, above all, the possibility of establishing beneficial business relationships.

It wasn't just about business alliances; Opportunities for marriage alliances also opened up. Noble families saw Ethan as an attractive match for his daughters, and marriage letters began to arrive in increasing numbers. Each of these proposals was wrapped in the promise of a strong alliance and a union that would bring mutual benefits.

Ethan found himself in the middle of a whirlwind of opportunities and important decisions. Each invitation and proposal required careful evaluation, as it would affect not only his future, but also that of House Astaroth in Highgarden. Decision-making became a crucial and challenging task as he had to balance his business goals, his growing influence in the city, and the personal relationships at stake.

Feeling the pressure and responsibility of the decisions he had to make, Ethan opted for a cautious and measured response. Instead of immediately accepting or rejecting any of the offers, he decided to send responses to all the noble houses that had contacted him. In these responses, he expressed his appreciation for the proposals and assured that he would consider them carefully. However, he also made it clear that, for the time being, House Astaroth would continue to develop in Highgarden.

This response avoided immediate commitments and gave Ethan the space to make informed decisions about the future of his home and business. He also allowed him to remain focused on the continued growth of House Astaroth in Highgarden, where he had already achieved notable success and was well established.

Despite all the good parts, one of his most persistent concerns was the fear of standing out and attracting too much attention before he was fully prepared to handle it. This reflection used to occupy his mind while he observed the stars in the tranquility of the night.

In his thoughts, Ethan recognized the reality of Westeros, where ambition and competition were ruthless. He knew that the more prominent his house was, the more attractive it would become in the eyes of other noble families. In a world like that of "Game of Thrones," being the object of envy and rivalry could be dangerous, especially if the ambitions of more powerful houses were attracted.

The night sky stretched like a dark, starry blanket over the city of Highgarden, revealing a celestial spectacle of epic proportions. The stars, like twinkling diamonds, dotted the vastness of the firmament with their brilliance. Ethan, in his nightly reflection, found in this celestial panorama a source of inspiration and a reminder of the greatness of the world in which he lived. Each star seemed to contain ancient secrets, intertwined stories and destinies that unfolded in an infinite tapestry of light. The darkness between the stars, instead of being an empty void, became a canvas for the imagination, a space where dreams and hopes could flourish.

The constellations, those star formations that had guided sailors and poets throughout the centuries, seemed to take on a life of their own in Ethan's mind.

As Ethan gazed upon this celestial wonder, he realized that, like the stars, he too was immersed in his own ever-evolving narrative. In the game of high expectations and looming challenges, he found strength in the beauty and majesty of the universe above him.

He thought at last, as he returned to his tavern room.

"The success we are achieving is incredible, and I am grateful for it. But I also know that each step towards the top will attract more eyes and more expectations. Invitations from other noble houses and marriage proposals are just the beginning. I have to be "Be cautious and consider each move carefully. I do not want House Astaroth to become prey in this game of power. Discretion and prudence will be my most valuable allies in this unforgiving world."