Supernatural Beings: Strive Survivors Vol. 3 [Steady Update]

Strive 209: For Your Safety And Passion

Kibishi's Pov

Tao looks down with an angry face. I don’t blame her; after what happens tonight and the hurtful comments from the adults towards the girls, it’s clear they feel rejected.

The founder’s actions are troubling, forcing the adults to do what he wants.That’s not right...Even though I think this way, I realize we don’t know the whole story. We don’t understand why he acts this way. Still, that treaty could cause big problems.

“Tao, I’m sorry for causing you all these problems,” I say to my orange-haired friend.“It’s not your fault,” she replies, though her frown deepens.

“But this isn’t a good sign. If he’s making us work like this, it means he’s serious about wanting us to set the humans free. While I’m not against freeing us, using you—especially when you’re not ready—is frustrating. What would you do out there? How can you help without putting yourself in danger? There is one way, but that isn’t right…” Tao whispers, worry in her voice.

“I know it’s not fair,” I say softly. “But there’s nothing we can do about it…”

“No. There is…” Tao looks at me with determination. “I’ll ask the adults not to bring you along in the third layer.”

“What?! That’s crazy!” I shout in disbelief.

“I know,” she says, her voice steady despite her shaking hands. “But none of us have gone crazy yet, so there’s a chance we can succeed without you. As much as it hurts me to say this, you would only get in the way…” Tao grips my left hand tightly with both of hers.

“I’m not saying that to be mean; it just makes sense.”

“I see…” I whisper, feeling a mix of sadness and frustration.

“Ah!” Tao jumps at my reaction, squeezing my hand tighter. “I didn’t mean it like that, Kishi! I-I just—”

“I know,” I reassure her gently. “I can tell you’re saying this for my safety. I won’t take it any other way. But thank you, as always, Tao. Still…” My resolve strengthens as I lower my head but then raise it again with determination.

“If the adults want me on the mission day after tomorrow, then so be it.”

“Kishi… but why?” she asks, sadness in her voice.“Because if I don’t go through with this, then you all will be in danger,” I explain softly. “And as much as I hate to admit it,” I slowly stand up and clench my fists, “I’ll ask Kibun for a knife to defend myself.”

“Absolutely not!” Tao stands up abruptly, her eyes wide with alarm. “We can’t afford to lose you!”

“I understand your concern,” I say deeply sighing to calm myself before saying something rash. “But if I can’t defend myself, how can you focus on the mission without worrying about me?”

“I’ll figure out a way! Just… just let me protect you!” Tao pleads earnestly.I widen my eyes at her intensity.

“Please! Have faith in me, Kishi! Let me be your sword and shield! Don’t take up a weapon for our sake! Let us be the weapon while you stay in support!” Her passion surprises me; I’ve never seen Tao like this before—so open and vulnerable.What should I do?

If I take up a weapon, I risk breaking her heart. If I don’t, I put myself in danger yet again. What can I do? What should I do?

I’m…I’m not sure…

Slowly, I wrap my right arm around Tao’s waist while cradling her head with my left hand. Gently rubbing her back reassures her that it’s okay—that she doesn’t need to cry anymore.

Okay.

I get the message.“Alright then. I won’t do it,” I say softly.

Tao flinches at my words.“I won’t go for the knife. I’ll try my best to support all of you.” My grip tightens around my sweet friend but remains gentle enough not to squeeze too hard.Tao responds by embracing me tightly and burying her face against my chest.

“Kishi… thank you—for everything—and for being yourself.” Her warm breath makes me blush as heat spreads across my cheeks.“Kishi…?” she whispers shyly.

“What is it?” My surprise shows on my face.

“Would you… like to hang out alone after the mission? Just us?” Tao asks hesitantly, sounding a bit ashamed.

“Oh, s-sure…” I nod awkwardly.

“…I’m sorry,” she murmurs.“For what?” Confusion washes over me.

“For being selfish,” she admits quietly.

“I know you’re your own person with dreams and goals. But still… I just want to spend time with you, Kishi. Every moment with you makes me happy. You have no idea how hard it is NOT to think of you.” Her voice trembles slightly as she continues, “All I can think about is you… Kishi… I always want to be with you forever.”

“Tao…” My heart races at her words.“Can you feel it? My heart beating—longing for your company? I've always been this way; no matter how hard I try to control it, when I'm with you... even if it's not meant to be," she looks into my eyes and smiles through tears streaming down her cheeks. "I'm so happy being with you!”

Bu-bump!

My face flushes as an intense feeling surges within me.What is this?!

Bu-bump!

It fades away…

Maybe spending time with Tao will help me understand these new feelings...No! That would be selfish!

Yet still,

I want to accept Tao's wishes.“Tao…” My gaze softens as admiration fills me. “Don’t worry; I've already accepted your offer—there's no need for hesitation. Let’s have a great time together after the mission.”

Bu-bump!

Tao narrows her eyes in joy as more tears spill down her cheeks. “Kishi…” she continues crying and nods in acceptance.

Hug!

“Oof!” The sudden embrace catches me off guard again.

“Sorry! My body moves on its own sometimes! When you accept my offer, my heart skips a beat! Now I'm the happiest girl alive! Thank you… thank you so much!” Her joy radiates around us as she releases me and turns to leave—

“Kishi…” she calls back suddenly, interrupting my thoughts.“Yeah?” My brow raises in curiosity.

Tao places a hand behind her back and gives me a cute smile tinged with blush once more. “See you tomorrow! Sweet dreams!”

Step! Step! Step!

“Goodnight…” I wave as she walks away.

As I close my door behind me, warmth spreads through my chest—a mix of excitement and uncertainty fills my mind as sleep beckons me closer.

To Be Continued....