Yeah...
Well, 9 days is understandable. Although, I really want to see a walkthrough, preferably even a few :)
But 7 days?!!!
Computer-controlled Castles were definitely taken by heroes from the starting Castle. It's impossible to reach another Castle from a captured Castle by the 7th day.
Moreover, the last hero had to be rescued on the 4th day. It's impossible to reach any Castle in less than 4 turns.
Regarding the seven days, I agree that it was more of a JEWELRY-like task, and there's nothing special about nine days; it could have been reduced to 8 days, but that would have required replaying a couple of long turns, because my entire ninth turn was spent chasing a single Barbarian.
If anyone is interested in my third-place finish, I can upload the final save and the entire walkthrough.
P.S. There are other additional files, but they didn't fit in the archive; I can send them to those who are particularly interested via email!!
Also, download the final save; it's not included in the complete walkthrough!!!