Chapter 6: A Sibling’s Farewell & The Path Forward

Audi sat at the Adventurer's Guild, staring at the stamped quest paper in his hand. The weight of his next step pressed down on him. Gate 5 was just the beginning, and his siblings were already ahead.

The heavy wooden doors swung open, and familiar voices filled the guild hall.

"We're back!"

A group of adventurers entered, led by three figures Audi knew all too well. His older siblings—Prius, Ford, and Jazz—walked in, their armor stained with battle and their expressions sharp with experience.

"We took care of the goblins," Ford announced, tossing a bloodied quest paper onto the receptionist's desk.

Prius stretched, rolling his shoulders. "That was easier than expected. I thought they'd put up more of a fight."

Jazz adjusted her staff and gave Audi a knowing smirk. "And you? Still thinking about your first job?"

Audi met their gazes, feeling a mix of pride and frustration. "I'll catch up soon."

Prius chuckled. "We'll be waiting."

The Path Beyond Gate 20

As the siblings settled in, their conversation turned to their next destination.

"We're leaving for Gate 20 tomorrow," Ford said. "Beyond that, Prius and I will move ahead to Gate 21 and beyond after completing our Second Job Advancement Quests."

Prius nodded. "The path only gets harder from here, but once you reach Gate 20, you'll have the chance to take your second job, too."

Audi clenched his fists. Gate 20 felt so far away.

Jazz leaned in. "I won't be heading to Gate 21 right away. I have to complete my Second Job Advancement Quest for Wizard first."

Audi raised an eyebrow. "So you won't be traveling with them?"

Jazz shook her head. "Not yet. The Wizard quest isn't just about fighting—it's about proving I can control magic at an advanced level. If I pass, I'll meet up with them at Gate 21."

Ford smirked. "And if you fail?"

Jazz rolled her eyes. "I won't."

A Promise to Reunite

Before the night ended, Prius placed a hand on Audi's shoulder. "Don't rush. Pick the job that fits you, and when you reach Gate 20, we'll be there, waiting for you."

Ford nodded. "Just don't take too long."

Jazz flicked his forehead. "And don't die before then."

Audi grinned. "I'll make it. Just wait for me."

As his siblings left for their next challenge, Audi knew his journey was just beginning. He had to pass Gate 5, claim his first job, and chase after them.

Back at the Mansion

Audi returned to the mansion, stepping into the grand halls he had called home for so long. He didn't know when he would see this place again.

As he packed his belongings mostly Meat, Maid Sally entered the room, her sharp eyes scanning his preparations.

"You're really leaving, huh?" she asked, arms crossed.

Audi nodded. "Yeah. It's time."

Sally sighed. "And when will you be back?"

Audi hesitated, then smirked. "Once I find my purpose in life, I'll return to you, Sally."

Sally blinked, taken aback. "Huh?"

He stepped closer, lowering his voice with a teasing grin. "And when I do... I'll eat you."

Sally's face turned red. "WHAT?!"

Audi burst out laughing. "Oops. I meant—I'll marry you."

Sally huffed, but there was a small smile on her lips. "You better keep that promise, idiot."

With that, Audi turned toward the door. His journey had only just begun.

The Tower awaited.