Departures

"What about the 'deadly duo,' Wil?" Lilly brought up the topic the next day during their dinner.

It was a large gathering. Relatives who came to attend William's birthday were all present. Elizabeth's parents, both nearing a century yet healthy and energetic, Jean's parents, John's daughter Elena, her husband Andrew and his family, Helen, and Alan all enjoyed their dinner when Lilly unexpectedly brought up the subject.

William groaned, and Alan covered his face.

Reluctant to showcase their combat prowess in front of anyone else, they always maintained their innocence. Even John and James didn't know many of their deeds.

It's not that they wanted to deceive or act in front of their family members, but both kids learned early in their lives that once your family sees blood on your hands, they will start treating you as an adult. Alan and William wanted to enjoy the care and concern of their family members for as long as possible.

John tactfully crafted a small lie. "It's nothing, my dear. Those two were the most mischievous pair in the history of the Merchant's Guild, so they named them the deadly duo." Laughter erupted, but family members who knew them well exchanged silent glances before joining in the fun, anticipating they would hear the true story later.

The next day brought disturbing news. Caravans bound for various places were being attacked by a group of bandits out of nowhere mercilessly killing everyone, including children and the elderly. The problem was, nobody knew where the bandits would strike next.

The demand for adventurers soared, and almost all renowned adventurers were immediately hired by merchants and travelers alike. The imminent threat created an urgency that permeated the town.

Alan and Williams were on the verge of embarking on a journey to Winden city alongside their Aunt Elena, where they would reside for the next couple of months until their enrollment in the Academy.

A collective meeting unfolded to address their departure the following day, in the presence of Elizabeth's and Jean's parents, Elena, Andrew and his parents, all of whom would be setting out together. Accompanied by approximately 30 guards. Elena expressed her concerns about whether the boys should travel under the current circumstances.

"Elena, don't fret. Those two rascals will likely make the bandits think twice before facing them," reassured John, prompting a round of smirks though, but no one took him seriously.

With the meeting concluded, the pre-departure dinner transformed into a heartfelt family affair. Emotions ran high as Jean, Elizabeth, and Helen expressed their sentiments toward the boys. After all, they wouldn't return home for at least a year, if not longer.

Both Alan and Williams couldn't help but feel the weight of these emotions, as it marked the first time they were venturing far from their families for an extended period.

That night, in their room, Helen gently held Alan's hand, tears tracing down her cheek. "My dear boy, you've grown so much. Time truly flies swiftly when you are with a kid by your side," she sighed inwardly. "I will miss you, my child. Take care of yourself and look after Williams too. Be mindful of your strength, and only use the necessary amount. Don't unleash your full power unless it's absolutely necessary," she reiterated. Alan nodded warmly in response. "I will, Grandma. You take care of yourself. I'll visit as soon as we find the time." Alan hugged her then he retired to bed.

As Helen wiped away her tears, she couldn't help but feel that Alan seemed taller than her during that embrace. "Time really flies by when kids are around," she mused before turning in for the night.

The following morning, Andrew received a letter from the Merchant's Guild, offering a trade opportunity at Swan Lake Town for a rare merchandise he had been seeking. This unexpected development led to a change in their departure plans.

Initially, Andrew intended to remain behind alone to secure the deal. However, due to the persistence of his daughters, who were eager to visit Swan Lake Town, the entire group, including Elena, Andrew, their children, and both Alan and Williams, had to postpone their departure. The older couples proceeded as planned towards Wilden Town, accompanied by 24 guards.

With the trading scheduled to take place ten days later, they extended their stay in Green Town by four days before starting on the three-day journey towards Swan Lake Town. During these additional days, the children planned to explore and make the most of their time before heading to Wilden City.