My and Their Anime-Style Otherworldly Survival Adventure

After some conversation, Jiuxiao learned that Kisaragi's father was named Tomoya Tendo and his mother was named Ayaka Tendo. Their family elders were high-ranking officials in Japan, and the couple worked in their family business, wielding considerable power and considered themselves upper-class figures in Japan.

This puzzled Jiuxiao greatly. How could scions of a prominent family like theirs suffer alongside ordinary people? They were even nearly killed by Gastrea. He recalled a plot point from the Black Bullet world—Kisara Tendo's parents, wanting to expose the Tendo family's corruption, incurred the wrath of the other members of the Tendo family. Then one day, Kisara's parents were killed by Gastrea that suddenly appeared in their home. Kisara's subsequent investigation revealed that the Gastrea that killed her parents was actually a setup by other members of the Tendo family, leading Kisara to embark on a path of revenge.

Could it be that the conspiracy against the Kisara family had already quietly unfolded, only to fail because of the interference of Kyuu and the others?

Jiuxiao pondered inwardly, but outwardly remained calm, continuing his casual conversation with Tiantong and his wife. Perhaps he had already been drawn into this conspiracy. Judging from the Tiantong couple's expressions, they didn't seem to have realized that the Gastrea attack might be a conspiracy targeting them.

Ayaka Tendo suddenly asked, "By the way, Kusho-kun and Fate-chan, right? Why didn't you travel with your elders?"

Jiu Xiao was taken aback by the question, unsure how to answer it. While making up a lie to get by wouldn't be impossible, one lie would require countless others to cover it up. To resolve the issue once and for all, Jiu Xiao decided to conceal part of the truth.

The Tendo couple, seeing that Kyuu and Fate had suddenly fallen silent, thought they had said something wrong. Tendo Tomoya glared at his wife and quickly tried to smooth things over, saying, "Ahem, um, Kyuu-kun and Fate-sister, please don't mind us. We were just asking casually, we didn't mean anything by it. If it's inconvenient to say, that's fine."

Jiuxiao gently shook his head and smiled, "It's alright. Actually, our parents are no longer in this world. As you've probably noticed, Fate and I aren't biological siblings; we only recently met..."

The Tendo couple became even more embarrassed upon hearing this, realizing they had inadvertently reopened a sore spot. They had assumed that Kusho and Fate's parents might have been killed by Gastrea. Ayaka Tendo, realizing her mistake, quickly comforted them, "Kusho-kun, Fate-sister, we are so sorry, we shouldn't have asked those questions. Please forgive our rudeness."

Ayaka Tendo said with a guilty expression, putting her hands together in an apologetic gesture.

Jiuxiao smiled and shook his head, indicating that he didn't mind.

"It's okay, all of that is in the past. What's most important for us now is to survive, isn't it?"

His words carried a deliberate hint of relief, because that wasn't actually the case. It just goes to show that life is like a play, and it's all about acting.

Tomoya Tendo quickly chimed in, "Kyushou-kun is right, we must work together to survive. By the way, Kyushou-kun, what are your plans after you arrive in Tokyo? If you have nowhere to go, you can stay at my house for now."

Upon hearing this, Jiuxiao was overjoyed. He had been racking his brains for a reason to approach the Tiantong family, and this was like a godsend. Now that he knew the plot against the Kisara family might have begun, Jiuxiao naturally couldn't stand idly by. Within his power, he would protect them if possible. Staying at the Kisara family's house would not only make things easier, but he could also conveniently improve Kisara's favor...

So Jiuxiao nodded and agreed, "Okay, thank you for your kindness. We don't have anywhere else to go for the time being, so we may have to bother you for a while."

"Fate, you don't have any objections, do you?" Jiuxiao asked.

"Wherever Brother Jiuxiao goes, I will go. You can decide."

Upon hearing this, the Tendo couple's faces lit up with joy. They knew that with the addition of Kyuu and Fate, their chances of safely returning to Tokyo would greatly increase.

During the rest of the journey, Jiu Xiao and the Tian Tong couple continued their conversation. From their words, Jiu Xiao gradually learned more about the Gastrea Wars and the general situation in Tokyo.

After everyone finally caught up with the main force, Koki had recovered enough and dismounted from Jiuxiao's back. Upon closer inspection, a noticeable water stain could be seen on Jiuxiao's back...

The flying Gastrea that had previously wreaked havoc among the crowd had been dealt with by the soldiers, allowing everyone to rest and recuperate. They also immediately found the medic who had accompanied the group to re-bandage Ayaka's wounds.

Taking this opportunity, Jiu Xiao decided to take Xiao Mu Geng to change her clothes. He couldn't let her keep wearing wet pants; it was bad for her health and also had a negative psychological impact. Jiu Xiao himself also wanted to change; he wasn't so cruel as to wander around in clothes soaked by the little girl.

Jiuxiao instructed Fate to protect the safety of Tiantong and his wife while she led Xiaomu to leave the makeshift hospital and look for a place to change clothes.

Gently taking Xiao Mugeng's hand, Jiu Xiao said softly, "Xiao Mugeng, let me take you to change into some clean clothes. You must be feeling uncomfortable covered in mud."

He deliberately found a plausible reason for Kogi, even though she was just a little girl, he still had to give her some face.

Little Wood looked up at the sky, his face as red as an apple, and whispered in response, "Um... thank you, big brother."

Seeing Xiaomu's blushing face and her adorable, timid appearance, Jiuxiao really wanted to hold her in his arms and cherish her. Just like he often did with Fate, but he restrained himself. Their relationship wasn't that intimate yet, and it wouldn't be good if he were seen as a pervert.

Because they were fleeing and resources were limited, they searched many places before finally finding an empty tent. Jiu Xiao took out a set of children's clothes and a full set of children's underwear that he had prepared for Fate from his system space. He mentally measured them and realized they might not fit quite right.

Xiao Mu is about 1.3 meters tall, which is quite tall for her age. (The average height of a six- or seven-year-old girl in Japan is around 120 cm.) Fate is 1.4 meters tall. Her clothes and underwear are okay, but her pants restrict her movement a bit.

Jiu Xiao had no idea how magical and unbelievable Xiao Mugeng's act of producing clothes out of thin air was in her eyes. Her eyes widened in surprise and curiosity.

"Big brother, where did you get all these clothes from?"

As Xiao Mugen pointed to the clothes in Jiu Xiao's hands, he asked innocently.

Jiuxiao realized something was wrong; how could he have forgotten about Xiaomugeng beside him? He couldn't very well kill her to silence her, could he? Luckily, she was just a little girl, easy to fool.

"Oh, well, actually my brother is a magician. This is just a trick. Look, I can conjure up even more fun things!"

Jiu Xiao smiled mysteriously, then casually took out another candy from the system space and handed it to Xiao Mugeng, trying to distract her.

Xiao Mugeng's eyes lit up instantly. She took the candy, unwrapped it, and put it in her mouth. The sweet taste spread in her mouth, making her squint her eyes and her face beam with a happy and satisfied smile.

"It's so delicious, thank you big brother!" Xiao Mu smiled sweetly, completely believing in Jiu Xiao's "magic trick." Her curiosity and surprise were replaced by this sudden sweetness.

Seeing this, Jiu Xiao secretly breathed a sigh of relief, glad that he had successfully diverted Xiao Mugeng's attention. He gently patted Xiao Mugeng's head and said softly, "Xiao Mugeng, you have to keep my secret after eating my candy, okay? I'll conjure up even more delicious and fun things for you in the future."

Xiao Mu nodded vigorously, his little face filled with seriousness and determination.

"Okay! I promise I'll keep your secret, big brother! Pinky promise!"

As she spoke, she extended her pink little finger, her eyes filled with anticipation.

Jiuxiao smiled and extended his little finger, gently hooking it with Xiaomugeng's: "Pinky promise, for a hundred years, no changing it, whoever changes it is a little puppy!"

The two recited the nursery rhyme together, as if an invisible bond had been forged between them in that moment. Shared little secrets can bring two people closer, and this principle applies to children as well.

Then, Jiu Xiao handed the clothes to Xiao Mugeng. He even cut off a section of the trouser leg, which, although it would affect the appearance, would at least make it easier for her to move around. Xiao Mugeng took the clothes, thanked Jiu Xiao, and went into the tent to change.

Jiu Xiao stood outside the tent to keep watch for Xiao Mu Geng. After she changed her clothes, Jiu Xiao also went in to change his clothes.

"Big brother, I really like this outfit."

Xiao Mu looked up at Jiu Xiao, her eyes sparkling with joy, all her previous embarrassment and shyness gone. Wearing her new clothes, she twirled in place to show Jiu Xiao, as if it were a precious gown that made her a little princess.

Jiu Xiao smiled and nodded, feeling satisfied that he could bring joy to Xiao Mu Geng. He reached out and gently ruffled Xiao Mu Geng's hair, saying, "You look really cute in your clothes. Xiao Mu Geng is like a little angel." He praised her, his eyes full of sincerity.

Fate: So, love can disappear, right?

Upon hearing this, Xiao Mu smiled even more brightly, revealing two adorable dimples on her face.

After changing his clothes, Jiu Xiao took Xiao Mugeng back to the temporary hospital. On the way, he instructed Xiao Mugeng that if his parents asked about the new clothes, he should say that he found them in the camp. Anyway, the camp was a mess, with all sorts of things, so this excuse was barely plausible.

Xiao Mu nodded more understandingly, keeping Jiu Xiao's words firmly in mind, after all, she had already promised Jiu Xiao to keep his secret.

Back at the makeshift hospital, Ayaka's wounds had received initial treatment, and they were resting outside. Seeing Kyushou and Koki return, they all smiled.

As Jiu Xiao had expected, the couple, upon seeing their daughter in her new clothes, inquired about their origin. Having anticipated this, Jiu Xiao and her husband readily provided their prepared explanations, their answers flawless and without a trace of suspicion.

After another day of trekking, Jiuxiao could see the defensive fortifications built in Tokyo in the distance.

It was a sturdy defensive line made of sandbags, barbed wire, and concrete fortifications, the last barrier for neon against despair.

Jiuxiao frowned slightly as he looked at the steel defensive line. He didn't see any megaliths constructed of chromium, which meant the line had to be pushed back further. Before humanity had fully mastered chromium, defeating Gastrea was nothing short of a pipe dream. Even the most basic task of holding onto their existing territory seemed incredibly difficult.

Long queues have formed outside the defensive line. Unlike the previous temporary camps, the staff here are re-registering these new refugees and issuing temporary identity certificates.

Holding Fate's hand, Jiu Xiao and the others slowly moved forward with the flow of people. They waited from noon until evening before it was their turn to complete the procedures. Staff members came once to distribute food and water; the food was alright, but the portions were too small.

After completing the formalities, the staff gave them some instructions, and then they were allowed to pass. Passing through the defense line built by the Self-Defense Forces, Jiu Xiao and the others finally arrived in Tokyo, the capital of Japan.

Gazing at the clean streets teeming with traffic and people, and the bustling commercial district with its towering buildings, Jiu Xiao was momentarily lost in a daze. Although he had only been away from civilized society for a few months, he felt as if he had been cut off from the world for a century. Every scene, every sound, felt both familiar and strange to him.

No matter how tragic the situation on the front lines, there was no trace of war here. The smiles on people's faces and the dazzling array of goods displayed in the shop windows along the street made everything seem so harmonious and beautiful, as if the turmoil outside had nothing to do with this place, as if they were two completely different worlds.

Jiuxiao took a deep breath, and the familiar car exhaust fumes eased the heaviness in his heart slightly.

"Nine Heavens Lord, Fate Sister, welcome to Tokyo."

A clear and melodious voice interrupted Jiu Xiao's thoughts. He looked up and saw that it was Tian Tong Cai Hua speaking to them.

Jiuxiao exclaimed, "As expected of an internationally renowned metropolis, Tokyo's prosperity is truly well-deserved."

Ayaka Tendo smiled and nodded, her eyes sparkling with pride for the city.

"Yes, although the atmosphere has been a bit tense lately because of Gastrea, Tokyo's heritage and vitality will not be easily defeated. The people here are still going through normal lives and working hard to protect this city."

Jiu Xiao looked around and noticed that electronic screens along the street were displaying news footage of the Self-Defense Forces fighting Gastrea on the front lines, along with slogans encouraging the public to maintain confidence and unity. It seemed that reporting only good news and suppressing bad news was a common rule for governments in any world. Jiu Xiao thought to himself that while such propaganda might temporarily appease the public, in the long run, if the Gastrea problem wasn't truly resolved, public panic would inevitably erupt again.

I wonder if TV Tokyo is still airing anime. (laughs)

Chapter 71 Fate's Back-Scrubbing Service

During their conversation, Tomoya Tendo had already hailed two taxis; their destination was an upscale residential area in Minato Ward. That was where the Kisara family currently lived, and also where Kusho and Fate would be staying temporarily. Minato Ward was one of the wealthiest and safest areas in Tokyo, far removed from the hustle and bustle of war.

Sitting in the taxi, Jiu Xiao gazed out the window at the scenery rushing by, a mix of emotions swirling within him. Tokyo's night view was dazzling; the streets under the neon lights seemed to come alive, bustling with activity. He couldn't help but think, "This must be what they mean by 'the front lines are strained, but the rear is thriving.'"

The taxi slowly drove into the port area and finally stopped in front of a modern yet cozy residential building. Tendou Tomo had already gotten out of the car and opened the door for Jiuxiao and Fate, politely gesturing for them to enter.

Jiuxiao and Fate seemed somewhat apprehensive about this. Tiantong Zhi was already an elder, and they would be troubling others for some time to come. Now, they were being treated with such courtesy. The two quickly thanked him and humbly entered the house.

Upon entering, a faint scent of lavender wafts through the air, instantly invigorating the senses. The interior is decorated with both elegance and a touch of life, with several abstract artworks hanging on the walls, adding an artistic atmosphere to the space. Little Kisaragi is already drowsy, gently held in Tomoya Tendo's arms, her little face radiating a childlike tranquility.

Seeing this, Ayaka Tendo took the initiative to arrange rooms for Jiuxiao and Fate. She originally wanted to give each of them a separate bedroom, but Fate refused. Fate wanted to share a room with Jiuxiao; this world wasn't safe, and she wanted to protect Jiuxiao at all times.

Jiuxiao naturally had no objection to this; he was more than happy to be close to Fate. Seeing the two so intimate, Tendo Ayaka hesitated, but ultimately chose to respect Jiuxiao and Fate's opinion.

The group arrived at the guest rooms on the second floor. Ayaka Tendo pushed open a door, revealing a spacious and bright room with a tranquil courtyard visible through the window. Moonlight shone on the marble-paved path, adding to the serenity and romance.

The world of the rich is so simple, unpretentious, and boring. Jiu Xiao silently complained in his heart, but still maintained a polite smile on his face. He looked around the room and had to admit that the facilities and furnishings far exceeded his expectations. Even as a guest, he could feel the meticulous care.

Seeing that the two were satisfied with the room, Ayaka Tendo smiled and said, "Please rest in the guest room for a while, and I'll go prepare dinner. The room has a private toilet and bathroom, and you can use whatever you need. If you need anything else, just let me know."

Jiuxiao nodded gratefully, secretly rejoicing at having met such a friendly and generous host.

"Thank you so much, Sister Caihua. I'm sorry to have troubled you."

Fate also thanked her, her shy smile revealing gratitude. Although Fate appeared aloof, she was actually a very kind person.

Ayaka Tendo waved her hand and left the room, leaving the two of them alone.

After Ayaka Tendo left, he turned to look at Fate and found her standing by the window, gazing at the garden outside, seemingly lost in thought.

"What's wrong, Fate?" Jiuxiao asked softly.

Fate withdrew her gaze, shook her head, and said, "It's nothing, it's just that the tranquility here feels somewhat unreal. While there's war raging outside, this place feels like a secluded haven, giving me a severe sense of disconnect."

Jiuxiao walked behind Fate and gently embraced her from behind.

"Yes, I wonder how long this peace can last. By the way, Fate, you're so young, why are you so sentimental? It's not like someone your age should be like this."

Fate blushed as she was suddenly hugged, but she was very unhappy that Jiu Xiao always treated her like a child. She turned around, met Jiu Xiao's gaze, puffed out her cheeks slightly, and protested, "Brother Jiu Xiao always treats me like a child. Actually, I'm not little anymore. I've grown up and can stand on my own."

Seeing her serious expression, Jiu Xiao couldn't help but laugh and reached out to ruffle her golden hair.

"It's okay, little Fate is cute too. But Fate is really amazing, she can handle things on her own without any problem. But I still hope Fate can rely on me more, otherwise what's the point of me being her older brother?"

Fate was taken aback when Jiu Xiao ruffled her hair, then couldn't help but burst out laughing. She playfully slapped Jiu Xiao's hand and said, pretending to be angry, "Brother Jiu Xiao, you've messed up my hair again. I'll have to fix it again later."

Jiu Xiao smiled and withdrew his hand, his eyes full of affection. He took Fate's hand, and the two walked to the bedside and sat down together. Jiu Xiao gently held Fate's hand and said earnestly, "Fate, I know you are very strong and brave. But in my heart, you will always be the little sister who needs my protection. However, I also respect your growth and want to see you become stronger and more independent."

Feeling the warmth of Jiu Xiao's hand, Fate felt a surge of warmth in her heart. She lowered her head and whispered, "Brother Jiu Xiao, thank you for taking care of and protecting me all this time. I also want to be your support and face the storms of the future with you."

Jiuxiao smiled and nodded, squeezing Fate's hand tighter. The two sat quietly, enjoying the rare moment of peace.

After a while, Jiu Xiao felt the atmosphere become somewhat ambiguous. He patted his flushed face; Fate was still a child, after all. Humans couldn't, at least shouldn't. To ease the tension, Jiu Xiao half-jokingly said, "I'm going to take a shower first. How about it, want to come with me, brother?"

Jiu Xiao's unintentional remark made Fate's face turn bright red instantly. She secretly glanced at Jiu Xiao and then quickly lowered her head, nodding almost imperceptibly.

This time, it was Jiu Xiao's turn to be unsure. He had thought Fate would shyly refuse, since such a suggestion was a bit too much for her. Moreover, he had only said it to tease Fate, and he hadn't expected Fate to react this way at all.

Seeing Fate's slightly trembling yet expectant eyes, Jiu Xiao couldn't bring himself to say anything joking. He gritted his teeth, made up his mind, and decided to bathe together; after all, he'd bathed with his sister before in his past life.

Jiuxiao stood up and asked again, "Um, Fate, are you sure you want to shower with me?"

Fate's face was as red as a ripe apple, almost dripping blood, but she still mustered her courage and nodded gently, her voice barely audible: "Um... I want to help Brother Jiuxiao rub his back, is that... not allowed?"

A strange feeling of emotion welled up inside Jiu Xiao. He knew that his actions might be somewhat inappropriate, but looking into Fate's innocent yet slightly shy eyes, he simply couldn't bring himself to refuse. So, he gently took Fate's hand and said softly, "Alright then, Fate, let's go together."

The bathroom was filled with steam, warm and hazy. The two undressed separately; Jiu Xiao had already wrapped a towel around himself and stood under the shower, adjusting the water temperature. Fate stood in the doorway, clutching her towel tightly, her eyes filled with both anticipation and a touch of shyness.

After a long time, having mentally prepared herself, Fate finally made up her mind and pushed open the frosted glass door to the bathroom.

Jiuxiao, standing under the shower, was startled when he saw Fate wrapped up like a spring roll by the door. Fate's long blonde hair was piled up at the back of her head, revealing her slender neck. Her petite body was taut with tension, her fair feet pressed together and her slightly fleshy thighs were squeezed into a straight line.

Is it really that soft? Jiu Xiao couldn't help but wonder...

Fate mustered her courage and took that step into the bathroom. Her face was still flushed, as if she had been drinking fake alcohol.

Seeing this, Jiuxiao quickly dispelled the thoughts in his mind and recited in his heart: "Form is emptiness, emptiness is form; form is emptiness, emptiness is form..."

In this way, amidst the swirling steam, their figures became blurred and indistinct. Jiu Xiao first helped Fate adjust the water temperature so she could start washing. He stood by her side, carefully preparing her toiletries, occasionally glancing up at Fate with eyes full of doting care.

Under Jiuxiao's watchful gaze, Fate slowly relaxed.

After a while, Jiuxiao said, "Feite, let me wash your hair."

Fate nodded slightly and said nervously, "Okay...okay."

With Fate's permission, Jiu Xiao slowly approached her and began washing her hair. His fingertips danced through Fate's hair, carrying the faint scent of shampoo, gently and meticulously.

In the bathroom, the water gurgled. Jiu Xiao skillfully untied Fate's hairband, his gaze focused and earnest, as if handling the most precious treasure. Fate closed her eyes, savoring this unique tenderness and care, her heart filled with happiness.

After washing her hair, Fit offered to rub Jiu Xiao's back.

"Brother Jiuxiao, let me rub your back." Fate's voice was delicate and gentle, like a spring breeze caressing the heart.