My and Their Anime-Style Otherworldly Survival Adventure

Jiu Xiao snapped out of his daze and saw Yan Zhu wearing an orange children's bikini, her chest completely flat, even flatter than a Satsuma manga. Seeing Yan Zhu rubbing against him without any ladylike decorum, Jiu Xiao wanted to say, "Your ribs are poking me." But he swallowed the words, replacing them with a slightly teasing smile: "Haha, Yan Zhu's swimsuit is undeniably adorable, but well, a bikini is still a bit too early for you."

Upon hearing this, Yeon-joo pouted and pretended to be angry, turning her head away, but the corners of her mouth couldn't help but turn up slightly, clearly she wasn't really angry. She playfully retorted, "Hmph, I still have room to grow, and I feel like I've gotten a little bigger lately." After saying that, she deliberately puffed out her chest, although the effect wasn't obvious, it still drew a burst of laughter from everyone.

Not to be outdone, Tina grabbed Jiuxiao's other arm and said coquettishly, "Brother Jiuxiao, look at my swimsuit, isn't it beautiful? I picked it out especially for you. Ah, the straps aren't tied tight..." As she spoke, Tina suddenly covered her chest with her hands, and the swimsuit straps naturally loosened, revealing a glimpse of her fragrant shoulder, and a shy blush rose on her face.

The girls were all stunned by Tina's burning technique. Jiu Xiao couldn't help but admire Tina's skill, and Xia Shi even showed a surprised expression: "She actually has this move too!" Mu Geng immediately covered Jiu Xiao's eyes, warning, "Don't look! Look what you've taught Tina! If I didn't have my phone on me, I would have called the police!"

Jiu Xiao was quite helpless; this was truly a trumped-up charge. He didn't recall ever teaching Tina these nonsensical things. He could only say this girl was too talented, learning everything on her own. But women are often unreasonable; in situations like this, silence was the best course of action.

*Ahem* Actually, there's an extra service involved. When Kisara covered Kusho's eyes from behind, their chests were pressed together. Under the force, they were squeezed and deformed... Kisara quickly realized what was happening, and her pretty face turned bright red. But she stubbornly refused to let go until Tina, with Madoka's help, put her swimsuit back on.

Only then did Jiu Xiao get a clear look at Tina's swimsuit. She was wearing a black swimsuit with a strange design. The upper body looked like it was made of pieces of fabric pieced together and connected by thin ropes. Although not much skin was exposed, Jiu Xiao felt an unexpected sensuality.

The others wore proper one-piece swimsuits, each with its own unique color. Xiaoyuan wore light pink, Mugeng wore a deep blue, somewhat like the style worn in competitions. Sania wore white, Fate wore black, and Xia Shi wore green, all vying for attention and dazzling the eye, leaving Jiuxiao overwhelmed with their beauty.

Xiaoyuan couldn't stand Jiuxiao's direct gaze and shrank back behind Sania, earning her a glare in return. Jiuxiao chuckled and went into the bathroom first, quickly rinsing himself before soaking in the hot spring. Then, the girls jumped into the hot spring one after another like dumplings being dropped into boiling water, splashing water and their cheerful laughter echoing in the rising steam. Finally, encouraged by Sania, Xiaoyuan mustered her courage and gently stepped into the pool, a sweet blush on her face.

Chapter 112 Hot Spring Trip (The End)

The gentle hot spring water enveloped them, seemingly washing away all their fatigue and worries. Jiu Xiao closed her eyes, enjoying this rare tranquility, a faint smile playing on her lips. The others discreetly gave Jiu Xiao, Xiao Yuan, and Sania some space. The remaining people whispered amongst themselves on the other side of the hot spring, occasionally punctuated by the playful noises of the children.

"Such moments are truly rare," Jiuxiao remarked.

Sania carefully tended to her shoulder-length silver hair, wrapping it around a towel. Water droplets slid down Sania's cheeks, dripping into the pool and creating delicate ripples. She chimed in, "Yes, ever since I inexplicably came into this world, I've been either busy making a living, fighting, or studying. There are so few moments of relaxation like this. I wonder how my comrades are doing."

As Xiaoyuan listened to their conversation, her eyes dimmed slightly. How could she not worry about her friends and family in the other world? She just usually hid these emotions very well.

Seeing the atmosphere gradually becoming somewhat heavy, Jiu Xiao quickly grabbed the two girls' small hands, which were soaking in the hot spring, and pulled them to his side. The almost imperceptible distance between the three of them was instantly shortened, and Jiu Xiao was just a hair's breadth away from achieving the feat of having one on each arm.

Jiuxiao laughed and said, "Don't worry, we'll find a way back eventually. Shouldn't we be enjoying this wonderful time? Why are you all looking so long? Anyone who didn't know better would think I was bullying you." As he spoke, Jiuxiao's hands gradually climbed up the backs of the two of them, and before they knew it, he had given them a tight hug.

Sania rolled her eyes at Jiuxiao and said irritably, "You're getting bolder and bolder. You dare to act so recklessly in front of us. You must have been secretly bullying Xiaoyuan behind everyone's back, right?"

Upon hearing this, Xiaoyuan's face instantly turned as red as a ripe apple. She quickly waved her hands in denial: "No, no, Jiuxiao-jun is very good to me. He even tutored me before the last final exam. You know, my grades have never been very good..." After saying that, Xiaoyuan secretly glanced at Jiuxiao, her blush deepening, as if she had remembered something embarrassing.

Sania narrowed her eyes, radiating a dangerous aura. Her woman's intuition told her that this matter was probably not so simple.

"I'm afraid it's not just about tutoring, is it? With Jiu Xiao's lecherous nature, what if the tutoring ends up in bed with him?"

Upon hearing this, Jiu Xiao broke out in a cold sweat. Although nothing substantial had actually happened, a verbal exchange was unavoidable. There was nothing he could do; it wasn't entirely Jiu Xiao's fault—Xiao Yuan was just too charming.

Hearing Sania's teasing, Xiaoyuan buried her head in Jiuxiao's chest, only her reddened earlobes showing, and made some unintelligible noises. Jiuxiao facepalmed; wasn't this just admitting defeat?

"Ahem, Sania, don't talk nonsense, or I'll sue you for defamation! Our relationship is still very pure, okay? Sigh, Sania, you've changed. You used to be so innocent, but now..." Jiu Xiao explained, feigning sadness, as if he had suffered a great injustice.

Upon hearing this, Sania's lips curled into a playful smile. She gently broke free from Jiu Xiao's embrace, sat up straight, and her eyes held a hint of mockery: "Oh? Pure? Then Jiu Xiao, tell me, what kind of relationship qualifies as pure? Does it mean that we're like this now, soaking in the same hot spring, chatting about ambiguous topics, that's pure?"

Despite his unease, Jiu Xiao feigned ignorance: "How is it impure? Everyone has covered their private parts properly and hasn't done anything outrageous, so how is it impure? Or is it that, Sania, you're actually expecting something?"

Sania turned her head away, deciding not to argue with Jiuxiao anymore. She and Xiaoyuan were like brothers, the eldest and second eldest, having done almost everything they should and shouldn't have done. Besides, she didn't dare to continue undermining Jiuxiao, otherwise she'd probably be "served with a wig" again that night.

Meanwhile, Kisara was soaking in the hot spring, watching Kyuu and the others, seemingly lost in thought. Fate, Natsume, Enju, and Tina were huddled together, chattering about recent amusing events, their occasional bursts of silvery laughter ringing out.

Jiuxiao was the first to emerge from the hot spring. After changing her clothes, she returned to her room, leaving the others, who were still playing in the hot spring, to enjoy the space. The hotel dinner was very sumptuous, featuring various seafood sushi, steaming miso soup, a delicious sashimi platter, and a variety of Japanese grilled meats, all of which were mouthwatering. Jiuxiao sat at the table, picked up her chopsticks, gently took a piece of perfectly grilled beef, and chewed it slowly. The aroma of the meat filled her mouth, making her mouth water.

During the meal, Jiu Xiao noticed that Xiao Yuan kept glancing at him secretly, her eyes sparkling with shyness. Whenever their eyes met, Xiao Yuan would quickly lower her head, two delicate blushes immediately appearing on her cheeks, as if they could bleed.

Jiu Xiao found it amusing to himself; Xiao Yuan was far too easily influenced by others. Moreover, he realized that the more he tried to ignore her, the more she cared. At this moment, she was like a young girl experiencing her first love, both yearning for and fearing Jiu Xiao's feelings—a complete love-struck fool.

After dinner, everyone took a break in the hotel's lounge area to digest. And let me tell you, this hot spring hotel has really comprehensive entertainment facilities, including a karaoke room, an arcade, a spacious gym, and an indoor swimming pool.

Everyone enjoyed all the activities until nightfall, when they reluctantly returned to their rooms to rest. The four little ones shared a room, while the others each had their own room.

Jiu Xiao lay on the soft bed, staring at the ceiling, lost in thought. His mind kept replaying Xiao Yuan's shy yet expectant eyes, and the playful scenes from the hot spring earlier that day. He took a deep breath, trying to calm the restless blood in his veins, but the more he tried to forget, the clearer the images became. Finally, unable to bear it any longer, Jiu Xiao took out his phone and sent Xiao Yuan a message.

"Xiaoyuan, are you asleep?"

"Not yet, is there something you need, Lord Jiuxiao?" Xiaoyuan replied almost instantly.

Feeling hopeful, Jiu Xiao continued typing in reply: "Can't sleep, want to chat with someone, can I come over to your place?" Jiu Xiao laid his cards on the table, and as long as Xiao Yuan wasn't stupid, she should understand his unspoken meaning.

When Xiaoyuan saw the message, her heart raced, and her fingers trembled slightly as she placed them on the phone screen. After hesitating for a moment, Xiaoyuan replied, "Okay... I'll open the door for you." Those few words seemed to have taken all her courage.

After sending the message, Xiaoyuan tossed her phone aside, rolled around on the bed with her face buried in her hands, feeling both nervous and expectant. She kept imagining what might happen, a blush spreading across her cheeks, the heat lingering.

Upon receiving Xiaoyuan's affirmative reply, Jiuxiao couldn't help but smile. He quickly changed into comfortable pajamas, tiptoed out of his room, and stealthily made his way down the hallway to Xiaoyuan's room. Gently pushing open the door, Jiuxiao found Xiaoyuan already standing there, wearing cute cartoon pajamas, her hair loosely draped over her shoulders, and a lingering blush on her face. The room was dimly lit, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.

"Nine, Lord Jiuxiao, you've come." Xiaoyuan's voice trembled slightly, and she dared not meet Jiuxiao's gaze.

Jiu Xiao nodded gently, closed and locked the door to avoid repeating You Ge's mistake. With a "click" of the lock, the whole room seemed to fall silent, leaving only the sounds of their breathing and heartbeats.

Holding Xiaoyuan's hand, Jiuxiao slowly walked to the bedside. He had never felt so nervous before. Even though he had been dating Xiaoyuan for a long time, this was the first time he had ever felt this way.

Xiao Yuan felt a jolt of electricity coursing through her body as Jiu Xiao's warm hand grasped hers, causing her to tremble involuntarily. Her cheeks flushed even more, almost burying themselves in her chest, her eyes fixed on their clasped hands, too afraid to look up at Jiu Xiao.

Seeing this, Jiu Xiao felt a surge of tenderness in his heart. He first removed the hotel sheets and took out a pre-prepared sheet from his system space to put on the bed. This was to avoid the hotel staff noticing anything amiss. Given Xiao Yuan's personality, if others knew about this, she would probably be so embarrassed that she would faint.

After doing all this, Jiu Xiao didn't say much. He gently pushed Xiao Yuan down and then slowly leaned in. Xiao Yuan's breathing instantly became rapid. She nervously closed her eyes, waiting for what might happen next.

At the same time, I was thinking to myself: I'm sorry, Sanya...

The darkness transformed the girl into a flower, its crimson petals slowly unfurling on the blanket beneath her. And Jiuxiao was the bee yearning to pluck this delicate blossom.

At the same time, both Sania and Kisara felt a heaviness above their heads, as if something unseen had appeared. A strange sense of loss washed over them, as if they had lost something important.

Nothing was said that night, because saying too much would easily get it censored. (Ten thousand words omitted here; knowing you readers don't like that, I'll skip it.)

The next morning, before dawn, Jiu Xiao and Xiao Yuan were already awake. Although they had stayed up very late the night before, their eyes shone with a special light—a sense of satisfaction and happiness born from a deep emotional connection. Xiao Yuan nestled in Jiu Xiao's arms, her fingers gently tracing the outline of his chest, a shy smile on her face.

Jiuxiao held Xiaoyuan tightly, feeling her body temperature and breath, his heart filled with an unprecedented peace. In short—Sage Mode!

Grasping Xiaoyuan's mischievous little hand, Jiuxiao asked softly, "Xiaoyuan, are you alright? Do you want me to use magic to heal you?"

Upon hearing this, Xiaoyuan's cheeks flushed again. She gently shook her head, her voice barely audible: "No, no need, Lord Jiuxiao. This is our mark. I... I don't dislike this feeling."

A warm feeling welled up in Jiuxiao's heart. He gently kissed Xiaoyuan's forehead and whispered, "Xiaoyuan, you're so cute. Don't worry, no matter what happens in the future, I'll take responsibility for you. I wonder if I'll still get pregnant after becoming a magical girl... cough cough..."

That's right, since both of them were first-timers, and Xiaoyuan also wanted to know if there was still a possibility of becoming a mother, so it was "birth".

The two lingered for a while, but Xiao Yuan didn't want anyone to notice her unusual behavior. So, she started tidying up the messy room early on. Jiu Xiao carefully folded the blood-stained sheet and put it back into the system space, making sure it wouldn't leave any trace. Xiao Yuan, blushing, picked up the scattered clothes one by one and arranged them neatly on the bedside table.

Since neither Jiuxiao nor Xiaoyuan were ordinary people, there was naturally no period of weakness afterward. Xiaoyuan also quickly adapted to the discomfort in her body, and as long as she didn't engage in strenuous exercise, no one would notice anything unusual. Afterward, they took a bath together, and sure enough, after breaking through to the final step, Xiaoyuan became much more generous. Afterward, Jiuxiao was kicked out by Xiaoyuan, who repeatedly told him to keep it a secret.

Breakfast was served at the hotel restaurant. The group chose window seats, enjoying their delicious meal while admiring the gradually awakening city scenery outside. Xiao Yuan would occasionally look up at Jiu Xiao, her eyes filled with a unique emotion.

Sania and Kisara felt that something was off about Madoka, as if she had matured a lot overnight. And whether it was their imagination or not, Madoka's skin had become more delicate and smooth, with a faint pink hue, like a newly blooming petal, exuding an alluring glow.

Jiuxiao noticed the questioning looks from Sania and Musang, secretly relieved that he had kept it a secret for the previous night. Although he wasn't afraid of being found out, he still had to respect Xiaoyuan's wishes. So he pretended to be calm and talked to everyone, occasionally exchanging glances with Xiaoyuan. The tacit understanding between the two had been enhanced the previous night.

Xiao Yuan tried her best to maintain her usual liveliness and innocence, but the occasional gentleness and allure she revealed made her even more charming. She would occasionally pick food for the little ones and wipe their mouths, her maternal glow even brighter than before.

However, the inexplicable sense of loss in Sania and Kisara's hearts did not dissipate. They exchanged a glance, both reading the same confusion and unease in each other's eyes. It felt as if something precious they had both been protecting had been quietly and unexpectedly taken away.

Having concluded his hot spring trip, Jiu Xiao felt completely satisfied. Finally free from the two incarnations of Chu Nan, he desperately wanted to share his joy with others. But was this something he could truly share with others?

In the days that followed, Jiu Xiao and Xiao Yuan, having just tasted forbidden fruit, couldn't wait to stick together. Anyone could see that something was off between them. Even the little ones could sense the pink tension between them.

Happy days are always fleeting, and Tokyo is once again facing a crisis. This time, the Holy Emperor personally visited his office to discuss the impending disaster and countermeasures with Jiu Xiao. The Holy Emperor's expression was grave, and his eyes revealed an unprecedented sense of urgency.

Inside the firm's conference room, Jiu Xiao and Xia Shi sat side by side, facing the stern-faced Holy Emperor. The Holy Emperor cut to the chase: "Mr. Yuan, first of all, I must apologize to you. Do you remember the No. 32 megalith you asked me to investigate a few months ago?"

Chapter 113 It hurts the heavens but not the people

Jiuxiao nodded, already understanding what was going on. Although his appearance had changed many things in this world, some pivotal events were still unavoidable. Whether it was the previous Scorpio constellation or the upcoming Third Battle of Kanto, it all seemed to have a predetermined trajectory.

The Holy Emperor continued, "According to our latest intelligence, a large number of Gastrea, exceeding 2000, have gathered near Metropolis No. 32. Among them is a very special being that, in addition to being immune to the Metropolis's special magnetic field, can also spray a corrosive liquid from its mouth. We have named it Aldebaran, and its level is between IV and V. Judging from the current extent of Aldebaran's erosion of the Metropolis, Metropolis No. 32 will probably collapse in about four days."

The atmosphere in the conference room instantly became tense. Jiu Xiao frowned, and Xia Shi also wore a serious expression. The collapse of Monolith 32 would trigger a chain reaction, severely impacting not only the Tokyo area but potentially destabilizing the entire Japanese political landscape. While Jiu Xiao wasn't afraid of the 2000 Gastrea, he didn't want to be used as a pawn. Moreover, this incident could be used to bring down Kikunojo Tendo.

The Self-Defense Forces will undoubtedly be on the front lines. Only after wiping out the Self-Defense Forces can the Emperor smoothly take control of Tokyo. Therefore, the general public of Tokyo and the Self-Defense Forces will suffer. Only by escalating the situation to a certain extent can the political position of the Tendo family be shaken. Although doing so would be against the will of Heaven, as long as it doesn't harm Bunwa, it's fine. Of course, this plan can only be carried out secretly, and the Emperor must not know about it.

Jiuxiao feigned profundity and said, "Didn't His Majesty the Holy Emperor send someone to investigate the No. 32 megalith? I remember making such a request at the time."

The Holy Emperor lowered her head, unsure how to answer Jiu Xiao's question. Although she had sent an investigation team at the time, the result was that everything was normal. That incident was classified as accidental and ultimately left unresolved. Naturally, she couldn't tell Jiu Xiao such a result, as it was her own doing.

"I am very sorry, Mr. Yuan. At the time, I entrusted this matter entirely to Assistant Kikunojo. He has a professional team in this field, and I thought I would receive a detailed report, but obviously, things have developed beyond my expectations." The Holy Emperor's tone was filled with deep self-reproach, and her gaze shifted between Jiuxiao and Xia Shi, as if seeking their understanding and trust.

Jiuxiao sighed softly. It was truly a case of being given a chance but failing miserably. Although this was the outcome he had hoped for, the Holy Emperor's naiveté still left him feeling somewhat helpless.

“Well, this isn’t entirely your fault, but such a big thing has happened, you have to give the people of Tokyo an explanation. Here’s what we’ll do: go and investigate which construction company built the No. 32 monolith back then, and see if there were any shoddy workmanship or design flaws,” Jiu Xiao guided.

Upon hearing this, a hint of gratitude flashed in the Holy Emperor's eyes. She knew that Jiu Xiao was pointing out a path to solve the problem for her. She quickly nodded in agreement: "Yes, Mr. Yuan, I will personally investigate this matter immediately and ensure that the people of Tokyo receive a satisfactory answer. The new megalith will take at least another week to complete. During this time, the Self-Defense Forces will be on the front lines intercepting Gastrea. If any escape, I'll leave it to you. I will also issue a Gastrea interception mission in Tokyo. At that time, the police force will need your leadership."

Jiu Xiao nodded slightly, secretly pondering how to use this crisis to maximize his own plans. After the Holy Emperor left, Xia Shi tugged at Jiu Xiao's sleeve, pulling him back to reality, and asked with a worried expression, "Brother Jiu Xiao, do you think the Self-Defense Forces are capable of holding off those Gastrea?"

After a moment of silence, Jiuxiao countered, "What do you think? It's not that I look down on them, but although the Self-Defense Forces have experience with two large-scale conflicts with Gastrea, and their equipment is better than before, their strength has been greatly reduced after the losses in the previous two battles. Facing such a large number of Gastrea, they probably can't hold out for long on their own. I just hope they can feed those monsters and buy us more time." Jiuxiao made a regional joke here.

Xia Shi was taken aback, then understood the meaning behind Jiu Xiao's words. Although she felt a pang of reluctance, she knew this was beyond their control. The Self-Defense Forces would not allow the police group to grow too powerful and further shrink their living space. As the saying goes, people die for wealth, birds die for food; these were their own choices, and they had no one to blame but themselves for losing their lives.

Having figured out the intricacies of the situation, Xia Shi fell silent once more. Although she knew Jiu Xiao had the ability to stop all of this, she wouldn't ask Jiu Xiao to do anything. After all, they were cursed children abandoned by this world. Now, she only hoped that the people around her would be safe and sound. Moreover, with Jiu Xiao and the others as a safety net, even in the worst-case scenario, Tokyo could be saved.

“I know what to do, Brother Jiuxiao. But do you know something inside? It’s not a coincidence that the No. 32 megalith became the Gastrea’s breakthrough point, is it? Let me guess, the contractor of the No. 32 megalith might be the Tiantong family, right?” Xia Shi suddenly looked up and stared straight at Jiuxiao, as if he could see into his heart.

Jiu Xiao didn't answer immediately, but instead gave a meaningful smile. He hadn't expected Xia Shi to connect these things so quickly. Jiu Xiao asked with interest, "Oh? Why do you think that?" He wanted to see how much Xia Shi could analyze.

Xia Shi pursed his lips and analyzed clearly, "Because this matter was entrusted to the Tiantong family by His Majesty the Holy Emperor, they will cover up any problems that arise. Moreover, Tiantong Kikunojo is very hostile towards the Cursed Child. Brother Jiuxiao, do you want to use this incident to bring down Tiantong Kikunojo?"

Jiuxiao nodded, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes. He patted Xia Shi's head and praised, "You're so smart. If the Holy Emperor had half your sharpness and insight, many things would be much simpler. It's true, the No. 32 megalith was indeed built by the Tiantong family, and they even cut corners to line their own pockets. This incident can be said to be entirely caused by the Tiantong family, and we don't need to pay the price for these scumbags. However, this matter should be kept secret from Sister Mugeng for now. Although she has left the Tiantong family, she was still a member before, so don't put too much pressure on her."

Xia Shi nodded solemnly, fully aware of the seriousness of the matter and the complex emotions and interests involved. She said softly, "I understand, Brother Jiuxiao, I will keep it a secret. But, Sister Mugeng... if she really finds out, won't she be very sad?"

Jiuxiao sighed, a complex look in his eyes: "It's inevitable to be heartbroken, but as long as she doesn't do anything foolish, it's all worth it. The Tiantong family should pay the price for what they've done."

That afternoon, immediately after leaving her office, the Empress Dowager held a press conference. At the conference, with a grave expression, she informed the people of Tokyo of the impending breach of Monolith 32 by Gastrea. She emphasized that the government had taken a series of emergency measures, including deploying additional Self-Defense Forces and police forces to intercept the breach. She also informed everyone that a new monolith would be completed in a week, and that Tokyo's shelters would be fully open to ensure the safety of every citizen.

However, shelter places were limited, and the government would decide who would enter through a lottery. This news was like a bombshell, instantly causing a huge uproar in Tokyo. People panicked and rushed to supermarkets, pharmacies, and other places to hoard necessities. The streets were crowded with people, and chaos reigned. Free shopping also occurred on a large scale, and some criminals took advantage of the situation to cause trouble. Social order gradually crumbled in the panic. Shops were looted, and discarded packaging and broken glass littered the streets. An atmosphere of chaos and despair permeated every corner of Tokyo.

Flights from Tokyo to other regions have been priced exorbitantly, with tickets costing as much as one million yen and still in short supply. The airport is packed with people, all scrambling to escape this despairing place.

Against this backdrop, many extremists emerged, launching a massive search for the Cursed Children in Tokyo, attempting to vent their anger on them. However, they quickly discovered something amiss: all the Cursed Children in Tokyo had vanished. Jiuxiao scoffed at this, executing several of the extremists' leaders as a warning. At this time, any violence against the Cursed Children was intolerable to him.

At Jiuxiao's home, since schools were closed, everyone sat around the television, watching the latest news.

"The megalith will collapse in four days, and the new megalith will take another week to build. We don't know how many people will die during the three-day gap. Although we have accepted the Holy Emperor's commission, our own safety must be the top priority," Jiu Xiao said in a deep voice, his gaze sweeping across everyone's faces to make sure that everyone had heard him.

Xiao Yuan held Jiu Xiao's hand tightly. Ever since the two had their most intimate relationship, her eyes were now filled with nothing but Jiu Xiao.

“Jiuxiao Jun is the one. Don’t force yourself. Everyone here is a reliable partner. You’re not allowed to be a hero all by yourself.”

Xia Shi nodded and added, "Should we find more people to form a team? This is a collective operation, and more people means more strength and a greater guarantee of safety."

Kisara took out his phone and hesitated, saying, "Actually, one of my former senior brothers contacted me. His name is Akimaru Tsubasa. He was once considered the next successor of the Tendo-ryu school, but he was expelled from the school for privately modifying the Tendo-ryu combat techniques. He is actually a very good person. He is not only upright, but also has no prejudice against the Cursed Children. He just contacted me and wants to form a combat team with us."

Jiuxiao nodded; he vaguely remembered this person. In the original story, during the Third Kanto Campaign, he replaced the incapacitated Rentaro and perished together with Aldebaran in the EP bomb explosion. Mainly because his Initiator was Ogura Yui... cough cough, Fuse Midori... This little girl's fate was also very tragic. During the Third Kanto Campaign, she joined Rentaro and his group, becoming part of Rentaro's Nagisawa Takuma Squad. In the chaos of battle, seeing an Initiator about to be crushed, she couldn't ignore it and fell into a Gastrea trap, where she was injected with a large amount of venom and then committed suicide.

You old scoundrel Zidian, you truly deserve to die!

"Alright then, Kisaragi, you go and contact him. Remember to take Fate and the others with you. Things are chaotic right now, and I don't trust you to go out alone."

Kisara smiled slightly and replied, "Don't worry, Jiuxiao, I will be careful. Besides, with Fate and the others around, there shouldn't be any major safety issues."

After saying this, Kisara stood up and walked towards the door, preparing to go out and meet with Akimaru Nagasawa. Fate and Sania also stood up one after the other, acting as her bodyguards.

Jiuxiao left Xiaoyuan and Xia Shi behind while he took Yanzhu and Tina to recruit team members. Although they were strong enough to easily defeat the Gastrea, Jiuxiao didn't want to stand out too much. It would be thankless and difficult, and he might even be morally blackmailed. Besides, Jiuxiao had acquaintances in Tokyo, and he felt more at ease having them by his side.

Leaving the residence, Jiuxiao led Yanzhu and Tina to the deserted streets. After the chaos of the past two days, those who were qualified had gone to the shelter, and the wealthy had all moved from Tokyo to other areas, leaving very few pedestrians on the streets.

They arrived at the door of a place called Katagiri Office. Jiuxiao looked up at the slightly old signboard, which looked like it was about to fall down at any moment, which complemented the turbulent world.

"This is it," Jiuxiao said softly.

"Is she someone you know? It's not another girl, is it?" Yeonjoo asked, displeased.

"Brother Jiuxiao is still as fickle as ever," Tina added.

Jiuxiao smiled helplessly, gently tapped Yanzhu and Tina's heads, and said, "You two little ones, don't overthink it. Do you really think I'm that unreliable? This time we're meeting a brother and sister. The brother is called Katagiri Tamaki, and the sister is called Katagiri Yuzuki. They're quite capable, their IP ranking is around 1800, I think." Jiuxiao said uncertainly, their last collaboration was half a year ago.

The doors of the Katagiri Agency slowly opened, and a young man dressed in a very avant-garde style walked out. He was none other than Katagiri Tamaki. His eyes held a hint of wariness and languor, but upon seeing Jiuxiao and the others, that wariness was quickly replaced by surprise.

"Hey kid, long time no see. I didn't expect you to still be alive."

Jiu Xiao's lips twitched. The Katagiri Jade Tree in front of him, who resembled a delinquent youth, hadn't changed much in appearance compared to half a year ago, but his casual and unruly air seemed to have become even stronger. He stepped forward and patted Jiu Xiao's shoulder in greeting.

Chapter 114 Tina: Me too!

After exchanging pleasantries, Jiu Xiao explained his purpose to the other party: "You should know about the No. 32 megalith, right? How about it, interested in pulling off a heist?" Jiu Xiao said in a thuggish tone, making it seem to anyone who didn't know better think he was trying to recruit the other party to do something heinous.

Katagiri Tamaki's eyes flickered, and a playful smile appeared on his lips: "Oh? The No. 32 monolith? Let me guess, is it because the Gastrea that will corrode the monolith has arrived that you've been organizing police forces to form a defense force everywhere?"

Jiuxiao glanced at Katagiri Tamaki with a hint of surprise. Although the government had announced that the megalith would collapse in four days, it had not explained the specific reasons. He hadn't expected that Katagiri Tamaki could guess this, or that the other party had his own channels to obtain this confidential information.

Katagiri Yuki leaned against the door, arms crossed, and casually glanced at Jiuxiao out of the corner of his eye, as if confirming his guess.