We are taking a shortcut!

The next day they received the news that the surrendered soldiers were loyal to Duncan's father and his uncle Garfield. They were forced to serve Duncan on his conquest. After discussing with Garfield, it was agreed that all the damages and destruction caused by Dunkan shall be compensated by Garfield, the new leader of the Blackthorn city.

Garfield also sent word to the commander incharge of Silvermoore town to withdraw their troops. He even announced to compensate 1000 gold for each life lost during the battle of Silvermoore town.

Ben, Bob and Alan volunteerd in disposing the dead bodies of the enemy soldiers. With their efficiency the work was done within a couple of hour. That night a huge feast was arranged at the Duke's castle. All the important figures of the city were present along with the young hero's and their family members.

Initally it was an awkward situation for the guys, but as time went on it became clear that almost everyone were behaving normally and not praising or looking like they were worshiping them. Almost.....

Few were in such awe of their display that, even though they were not praising too much, their gaze told a different story.

The boys simply ignored such stairs and enjoyed their meal.

"Father and Guildmaster Stan had informed everyone to leave you guys alone and behave normally." Rodrick informed them in the middle of the feast.

They felt greatful towards Fredrick's understanding and thanked him after the feast.

"Your grace one last request. Could you please send a public announcement and ask the people not to spread the heorics of my disciples. It would become a big headache for them if the news reaches the Capital and hamper their studies." Harry requested Fredrick, who agreed immediately and a public announcement was made the next day. Even people leaving the city were informed of not to reveal the identities of their heros.

Garfield had also made an announcement on his side not to reveal the reality. This also was to make sure not to publically humiliate his army for being defeated by a handful of young men.

Following their earlier discussion, the group decided to lodge at the Duke's castle, where even the Heathrow family joined. Before retiring for the night, Harry notified the Emberheart and Heathrow families that their journey would commence the day after, altering the initial plan.

The subsequent day was filled with excitement and joy. Finally, the departure day for the university arrived. After an early breakfast, they bid farewell to their families with heavy hearts, promising a return after a couple of years of studies. Rose cried openly, hugging each of her brothers, Lilly and Irene.

Fredrick then handedover all six boys a storage ring. " These are the rings recovered from the fallen enemy commanders and the Duncan himself. We had inspected and taken out many useful and even some disturbing things from the rings. There are 300,000 gold in each ring. 1,000,000 as promised by me and remaining are 10% of the total loot. Remaing amount from the loot shall be utilised for rebuilding and helping the fallen soldier's family."

"I will arrange two rings for the girls next time." Fredrick smiled warmly and said.

"No need your grace." After saying that, Alan Handedover a ring to Irene and Williams handed over his ring to Lilly. "We already have our rings." Harry and Williams showed their rings to Fredrick.

"This gesture deeply moved the girls and tears of happiness could be seen."

Unlike before, there were no carriages or guards accompanying the Duke's children while they started their travel this time. The young men and their Master provided ample assurance to ease everyone's minds.

Citizens and soldiers lined both sides of the roads, creating a grand farewell for the departing group. Cheers accompanied them throughout the city, and at the city gate, guards stood in attention, raising their weapons in salute.

Upon reaching the gate, the boys turned back, bowing deeply to the crowd, profoundly touched by the honor bestowed upon them.

A tumultuous cheering rose again at this greatful gesture from their heros. The humble gesture of gratitude shown from these young men left a deep impression on everyone.

Many thought to themselves, " They are so powerful, yet so humble." Many even wished for son's, brothers, friends and even a husband like these young men.

After travelling for a couple of hours, Harry made them halt and setup a camp. Roderick, Lilly and Irene were puzzled at this. But the boy's sighed and shook their head in helplessness.

Harry looked around and grinned in satisfaction. Roderick, Irene and Lilly saw that he had the most mischievous grin they had ever seen on his face.

Dave sighed, looked at the three new members of their group in pitty and said, " Here we go. Guys prepare yourself to hear and unfortunately follow the craziest idea you had ever heard in you life."

Then he turned to Harry and said seriously, "No going over the board with them. They can't handle it."

"No one can handle it." Williams also chimed in with a serious expression.

Harry sighed theatrically. "Alas, my own disciples don't have faith in me."

"No... We don't...." All six of them said in unison.

Don't worry lads, I know their capabilities. I will only train them as per their abilities. We still have six months for the start of the university's academic year. And a month is enought for us to reach there. Training them on the go will not affect our schedule. We will reach 15 day's prior to the start of your classes.

Rodrick was exited beyond words. This was a dream come true situation for him. He aways wanted to train under the best weapons master in the kingdom. It was becoming a reality now.

But suddenly he thought of something. "Master Harry, we need almost five months to reach the Capital right. How can you say we need only one month?"

Harry scratched his head sheepishly and said. " Ah, we actually need around 45 days. Don't worry Rodrick, we are taking a shortcut."