Inferno... !!!

Upon entering, everyone was momentarily stunned by the sight of these six tall and robust boys in ample lighting.

"Wow, big brother, you and everyone look so tall and tough !" Rose exclaimed, earning nods of agreement from the others.

"And you all seem so sturdy now. In fact, all of you looked to be having the same physique," Lilly observed.

"True, do all the boys at the academy these days look like you lads?" John inquired curiously, causing the boys to blush.

"Not at all, sir. John. It's all thanks to these two that we are in this shape. Because of Al and Wil, we were also accepted as personal disciples of Master Harry, the weapons master of our academy. " Chris explained.

The revelation shocked everyone, given Harry's reputation as the most powerful weapons master in Winden city's history, surpassing even Stan, the guild master, and both Alec and John who once were considered as the best adventurers of Winden City.

"Lads, you didn't tell us about this?" John asked Alan and Williams in wonder.

Both scratched their heads. "We wanted to give this surprise news at the right moment, but thanks to your wonderful question, Chris revealed our surprise prematurely," Williams glared at Chris, and Alan swatted the back of Chris's head. Chris, looking apologetic, rubbed his head sheepishly.

"Well, that's by far the greatest news we've heard this year, lads. Congratulations!" John smiled and everyone extended their wishes to the boys, who felt happy and proud.

"Grandma Helen, Chris here is obsessed with healing arts. And even was working as assistant and helper at various healing halls, could you...." William looked in anticipation.

"Of course dear. Any friend of yours and especially one who want to help others will always be able to learn whatever knowledge I posses." Helen said with a warm smile looking at Chris, who bowed deeply touched by the words.

" I forgot to mention one more thing. I'm now using the ring you gave me before heading to the Academy. I don't want any foolish guy to ruin my surprise again," Williams stated, glaring at the boys first and then offering a warm smile to Helen.

"What?!" The Heathrow family reacted first. John's parents and grandparents were stunned, standing like statues. Initially shocked, Helen then smiled widely, and embraced him happily.

Questions poured in from everyone, and Williams answered as best as he could. Finally, placing his hands on Alan's shoulder, he chuckled, "I guess being with this Jerk had rubbed off some of his qualities on me too."

The ensuing dinner was a joyous occasion, with the boys savoring delicious food. Afterward, the girls happily indulged in the sweets Alan and Williams had brought from the city. Rose even hugged Williams, expressing her gratitude for the treats.

As they sat and chatted, a sudden footstep interrupted the atmosphere. Turning, they saw a guard rushing in with a panicked expression.

George stood up, noticing the godown guard, but before he could speak, the guard blurted out, "Sir George, bad news, very bad news. The godown has caught fire, and it's out of control. It had became an inferno. We can't even reach 10 meters distance from the godown".

We had already sent word to the Duke's castle but it will atleast take 2 hours for them to come to our aid.

Shock swept through everyone.

"Quick, prepare the carriage. We're leaving immediately," Andrew commanded, moving toward the door. Alan spoke up, "We'll accompany you," and all the boys nodded in agreement.

Except for Mary, Elizabeth, Jean, and the kids, everyone left. Elena stubbornly accompanied her husband, and Helen joined them to provide healing support if necessary.

Luicly the guard had instructed others to prepare the horses and carriages before entering the mansion. They reached the godown within 45 minutes.

The scene infront stunned them. The godown, once a repository of goods and commodities, now stood engulfed in flames, its fiery tongues licking the night sky with an insatiable hunger. The crackling inferno painted an ominous glow across the surroundings, casting shadows that danced in chaotic rhythms.

Thick plumes of smoke billowed into the air, carrying with them the acrid scent of burning materials. The intense heat radiated from the blazing structure, creating a palpable tension as the guards and workers watched helplessly.

Few still tried dousing the fire but it was like "Trying to attack a fully grown red eyed tiger with a blade of grass."

George, Andrew, and Elena stood motionless, witnessing the voracious flames gradually consuming the godown's contents, tears welling in their eyes.