Toya's Diary, undated and unnumbered entries.

Day_

Today, Taiju grinned at me like nothing in the world could ever upset him. Sometimes, I wonder how someone like him could end up siding with Tsukasa. Then I remember—simple-minded people are easy to manipulate. For him, everything might just be about helping and trusting. But I can't let myself be fooled by that appearance.

I told him to gather grass for roofing near the western stream. "Taiju-san, can you help me? The grass there is really good." He nodded immediately, without a hint of suspicion. While he happily went to work, I took the opportunity to grab some important materials. I doubt he'll notice, and even if he does, he'll probably just think I needed them for everyone's benefit.

Day_

Taiju is really strong. I handed him a pile of heavy rocks to break, and he worked without a single complaint. While he was busy, I collected the small fragments I needed. They may look useless to everyone else, but to me, they're key to my plan.

I felt a little uneasy watching him work tirelessly, as if he never questions anything. Does he truly believe in what Tsukasa is doing? Or does he simply not know how to say "no"?

Day_

I tried something new today. I told Taiju I'd found a place with lots of food but didn't want to raise everyone's hopes until I was sure. "Can you keep it a secret for me, Taiju-san?" I asked, and he agreed instantly. It was so easy. While he thought I was out verifying the place, I used that time to prepare for the next step.

I don't know if I should feel guilty. He hasn't done anything wrong. But he's still on Tsukasa's side, and that makes it impossible for me to like him.

Day_

Tsukasa asked me what I'd done today. I told him I went with Taiju to fetch water. Taiju immediately confirmed it, without the slightest doubt. I saw the look in Tsukasa's eyes soften, and I knew I'd succeeded. Taiju is the perfect shield. No one suspects someone as honest as him.

But I can't stop feeling frustrated. How can he not see what's really going on? Or does he see it and just not care? I don't understand.

Day_

I asked Taiju to organize a campfire gathering to help everyone relax. "Taiju-san, people seem tense. You should organize it. I'll prepare some extra food," I said, and he eagerly agreed. While he was busy, I had time to gather a few more things I needed.

I know I'm exploiting him. But I don't have another choice. He's the only tool I can use without raising suspicion. I tell myself it's for a greater goal, but deep down, I can't deny that this makes me feel no better than the people I'm fighting against.

Day_

Today, I tried a new approach with Homura—mirroring her a bit: quiet, concise, not saying too much. It seemed to work; at least, she didn't look at me with her usual suspicious glare. Homura is like a wild cat—you need patience, subtlety, and the ability to let her think she's the one in control.

Hyoga, on the other hand, is different. He likes philosophical things, that "I'm smarter than you" vibe. I tried dropping a few cryptic, meaningful comments, and it seemed to catch his attention. So predictable—egotistical types like him only need a little "mirror" to blind themselves.

Day_

Tsukasa, the hero of the new world, makes my heart race and my legs tremble. I pretended to show some weakness today—a slight hesitation when talking about my "value" in this world. Just lowering myself a little was enough for him to flash that "don't worry, I'll protect you" look. It's amusing. Someone so strong can be so easily softened by a few vulnerable words.

The way he assumes the right to decide who deserves to live infuriates me. If I have to play the role of a loyal follower to keep him off my back, so be it.

Day_

Homura is truly skilled. I'm not joking—she's fast and precise to a terrifying degree. I tried complimenting her today, saying something like, "No one in the group is as agile as you." The result? Homura didn't say anything, but her gaze softened. Much better than her usual dagger-like stares.

Hyoga is still Hyoga. I "accidentally" spilled water while he was talking and then just laughed it off. He looked at me like I was a clumsy child. Good—let him think that.

Day_

Gen hovered around me today, casually saying, "Some people are really good at surviving, don't you think?"
"True, but only those who understand cooperation can survive in the long run," I replied, and he chuckled behind his hand.

Day_

I talked to Tsukasa about the old world today—about the injustices I witnessed. A bit of truth, a bit of fabrication. "The old world was cruel sometimes," I said, and Tsukasa nodded like I was his kindred spirit.

Tsukasa always thinks he's shouldering the burden of everything, but he has no idea that I'm just using his compassion to keep myself safe. I'm not the weak person who needs protecting, but if he thinks I am, then that's fine.

Day_

Homura and Hyoga don't seem to doubt me as much anymore. I continue to "mirror" them, imitating just enough to create a sense of familiarity. Hyoga still looks at me like I'm a leaf he could pluck at any moment. As for Homura? I'm not sure, but at least she doesn't avoid me anymore.

Tsukasa remains a reliable shield. A few strategic compliments, a few words to make him feel respected, and I can do anything without raising suspicion.

Ending today's entry, I just want to remind myself of one thing: Never forget the goal.