The Great Hall of the sanctuary buzzed with excitement as Haruka and I surveyed the assembled group and the new clothes we'd piled atop long stone tables. Sunlight from the enchanted skylight caught motes of dust swirling over the uneven flagstones. The sight would've made any department store envious, if that store had been carved in volcanic basalt with benches made from polished driftwood.

"I still can't believe we actually pulled this off in one day," I said, shaking my head as I examined the stacks of blazers, skirts, shirts, and more exotic garments creating a rainbow of fabric across the stone surfaces.

"Transform ability plus Tailor skills equals fashion miracle," Haruka replied proudly, wiping sweat from her brow. "Though I have to admit, my fingers are going to be sore tomorrow from all that detail work."

"And my mind feels completely drained," I added, flexing my hands. The intensive afternoon of creating base garments that Haruka could then perfect with her skills had pushed my magical capabilities to their limits. Using Transform to make clothing was definitely not covered in the standard "summoned to another world" orientation package.

"Worth every minute," Aoi declared, admiring a particularly elegant blazer. "I've never seen clothes this well-made."

"Speak for yourself," Rina added with a grin. "I'm just impressed Andie managed to remember everyone's measurements without writing them down."

"Infinity intelligence has its perks," I replied, though honestly I'd been terrified of mixing up sizes halfway through the creation process. Nothing quite like the fear of accidentally making someone's clothes too small and facing their wrath.

"Listen up, everyone!" Haruka called out, clapping her hands to get the group's attention. Her voice carried an authority I rarely heard from her outside fashion matters. "As you all know, Andie and I have been working since lunch to create proper uniforms and casual wear for our journey to Takejin territory."

I stepped forward, surveying the expectant faces of my classmates and our Voluptarian companions. "We want to present ourselves as a unified group when we arrive, both for practical purposes and to make a good impression on the Takejin."

Haruka gestured to the massive piles of clothing behind us. "We've prepared standard issue sets for everyone. Each person will receive two sets of formal wear, two sets of casual wear, and five pairs of shoes."

"Everyone gets the same basic package," I added, "but we've differentiated by gender based on traditional Earth school uniform styling."

Haruka beamed with pride as she pointed to the female section. "For the ladies, each of you will receive two sets of short and long sleeve blouses, blazers, pleated skirts, and pencil skirts for formal wear. For casual, you'll get tops, skirts, gym shorts, and gym tops."

"And for shoes," I continued, "one pair each of leather shoes, sports shoes, casual shoes, slippers, and uwabaki."

"The males," Haruka said with slightly less enthusiasm, "will receive short sleeve shirts, long sleeve shirts, blazers, and trousers for formal wear. For casual, tee shirts, jeans, bermudas, gym shorts, and gym tops. The same shoe selection as the females."

Ryota raised his hand, a playful smirk on his face. "Hey, why do the girls get more variety? I count four formal items for us and five for them."

Tatsuya nodded vigorously. "Yeah, fashion discrimination!"

I couldn't help but chuckle. "Have you seen how most of you dress when given options? Half of you would wear the same t-shirt until it disintegrated if no one stopped you."

"Fair point," Masato admitted with a sheepish grin.

Kazuki adjusted his glasses. "I believe the correct term is 'Fashion inequality index' and statistically speaking—"

"Oh, shut up," Airi cut him off with a playful elbow to his ribs. "You wear the same three outfits on rotation and you know it."

Haruka clapped her hands again to regain everyone's attention. "But wait! There's more! I've created an additional fashion line for the ladies." She gestured dramatically to another section of tables where significantly more revealing outfits were arranged. "The Haruka Gyaru Fashion Line includes tops like crop tops, spaghetti strap tank tops, and crop gym tops."

The male students pressed closer to see what miraculous variety was being distributed to their female classmates, while the gyaru girls cheered enthusiastically, and some of the more reserved females exchanged curious glances.

"For bottoms," Haruka continued, "we have various minishorts and miniskirts in denim, cotton, and nylon, plus pleated micro miniskirts, gym shorts styled like buruma, stockings, and garter belts."

Ryota raised his hand. "Uh, not to complain, but why do the girls get, like, fifty different outfit options while we get 'shirt, trousers, done'?"

"Well," I shrugged, "that's because we don't have any gyaruo in the group. You guys seemed perfectly happy with the standard casual options when I asked during measurements."

"True," Sora agreed. "Though now I'm kind of curious what a gyaruo fashion line would look like."

"Tight tank tops, expensive accessories, and way too much hair product," Airi supplied immediately. "Trust me, you're not missing much."

I noticed Noel's cream-coloured rabbit ears perk up with curiosity at the unfamiliar Earth fashion terms, while Ruri's silver-patterned ears twitched forward with clear interest.

"And dresses!" Haruka exclaimed, her excitement palpable. "Pencil dresses, bodycon dresses, mini dresses, sheath dresses, sundresses, maxi dresses, micro dresses, and off-the-shoulder dresses. Plus, additional footwear: stiletto heels, regular heels, ankle boots, and knee boots."

"What about underwear?" Emi called out suddenly, her face flushing red as everyone turned to look at her. "I mean... that wasn't on the distribution list..."

Naoki raised his hand. "Um, I actually wanted to ask that as well because, er... reasons."

An awkward silence fell over the gathering as everyone processed this very practical concern. I tried not to look directly at any of the women I'd spent the night with. Nothing draws attention like guilty avoidance.

"That's, uh..." I cleared my throat, feeling heat rise to my face. "We figured that was a bit personal for standard issue."

Haruka nodded quickly. "Exactly! But don't worry, Andie will handle custom underwear for the males, and I'll take care of the females. All you need to do is ask privately."

"You can use Transform for that?" Hitomi asked, eyebrows raised.

"It's just another type of fabric," I explained, trying to sound casual despite the subject matter. "The application is straightforward." Though the thought of crafting underwear for my male classmates made me decidedly uncomfortable. Some boundaries shouldn't be crossed.

"Alright, everyone," Haruka announced, "please come up and collect your standard issue items. Check that everything fits, and if anything is missing or needs adjustment, let us know. Aoi and Rina were a huge help with measurements earlier, so everything should be pretty accurate."

The group began to organise themselves into a line, with excited chatter filling the Great Hall. Our Voluptarian companions joined the queue, watching the process with fascination.

As the distribution continued, I made my way to where Noel, Ruri, Viktora, and the Felinari trio stood with their newly acquired clothing.

"I hope everything fits properly," I told them. "We used the measurements from earlier today."

"Earth clothing," Noel said thoughtfully, her diplomatic tone tinged with genuine curiosity. "What an interesting cultural exchange this will be."

"I'm particularly intrigued by these 'micro miniskirts' Haruka mentioned," Ruri added with a mischievous gleam in her eye. "They sound most... educational."

Vinera examined the piles of clothing with analytical precision. "The uniformity will serve a tactical purpose in Takejin territory. They'll see us as a cohesive unit rather than disparate individuals."

"Precisely," I agreed. "It's as much about function as appearance."

Once everyone had collected their standard issues, Haruka clapped her hands again. "Now, who's ready for the fashion show?"

Cheers erupted throughout the hall, not just from the gyaru girls but from unexpected quarters as well. I was surprised to see Miyuki raise her hand enthusiastically, and even more shocked when Ryota and several other jocks expressed interest.

"Fashion show?" I whispered to Miyako, who had appeared at my side.

She grinned. "Haruka's idea. She said if we're making clothes, we might as well show them off properly."

Before I could respond, Haruka was organising volunteers. "We'll start with the standard uniforms! Who wants to model?"

To my surprise, a mix of volunteers stepped forward from across all social groups. Hitomi was expected, but seeing Mochi volunteer alongside Yuna was a pleasant surprise. Naoki stepped up, as did Mei. Even Sora raised his hand with unexpected enthusiasm.

"I'll show everyone how it's done!" Ryota announced, flexing dramatically.

"This is a fashion show, not a muscle competition," Airi retorted, but she was smiling as she volunteered herself.

Most surprising was Miyuki, who had once been so traumatised she could barely be near male classmates. Now she stepped forward with quiet confidence, catching my eye and giving me a small smile of acknowledgment. While she still maintained some distance from the male volunteers, there was none of the fear or recoiling that had marked her early days in Voluptaria.

"Perfect!" Haruka beamed. "Now, everyone go change and we'll start the show in fifteen minutes!"

As the volunteers dispersed to change, I helped Haruka quickly rearrange the Great Hall, creating a makeshift runway down the centre with chairs on either side.

"I didn't expect so many volunteers," I admitted as we moved a table aside.

Haruka winked at me. "Fashion isn't just about the clothes, it's about the experience! Besides, it's good for morale."

She wasn't wrong. The entire group seemed energised by the activity, chatting excitedly as they claimed seats along the runway. Even Amakata-sensei, or rather, Keiko onee-chan as she now preferred, had a smile on her face as she helped arrange the seating.

"Places, everyone!" Haruka called as the models began to return. "Airi, you're our MC!"

Airi strutted to the head of the runway, wearing her formal uniform with unexpected elegance. The short-sleeved blouse complemented her figure perfectly, while the pleated skirt hit just above her knees. She'd somehow already personalised the look with subtle accessories that highlighted her gyaru style without breaking the uniform code.

"Ladies and gentlemen," she announced dramatically, "welcome to the first-ever Sanctuary Fashion Extravaganza! Today, we'll be showcasing the exquisite designs created by our very own Haruka and Andie!"

Applause and cheers filled the Great Hall as music began playing, someone had connected their divine-gifted smartphone to improvised speakers Kurenai had enchanted.

"First up, our standard issue formal wear!" Airi swept her arm dramatically as Hitomi stepped onto the runway.

I had to admit, the uniforms looked fantastic. The blazers with their subtle navy accents and golden trim gave an air of sophistication, while the blouses underneath were tailored to fit each individual perfectly. The pleated skirts moved elegantly as the female models walked, the entire ensemble creating a cohesive look that maintained individuality while presenting a unified appearance.

Miyuki surprised everyone with her confident stride, the uniform complementing her figure beautifully. The transformation from the withdrawn, fearful girl I'd known to this poised young woman was remarkable. When Mochi followed her sister, she received equally enthusiastic applause, her smile genuine and relaxed.

When the males took their turn, the contrast was obvious but complementary. The male blazers matched the female version in colour and trim, but were cut differently to accommodate broader shoulders. The trousers featured the same navy shade as the female skirts, creating a cohesive appearance across gender lines.

"Now for our standard casual wear!" Airi announced as the models returned in their second outfits.

The casual clothes maintained the colour scheme but offered more comfort and practicality, tops and skirts for the females, tee shirts and jeans or bermudas for the males. The gym clothes especially received enthusiastic approval from the sporty group.

As the standard issue showcase concluded, Haruka stepped forward with a dramatic flair. "And now, the moment you've all been waiting for, the exclusive Haruka Gyaru Fashion Line! Who wants to volunteer?"

To my surprise, Yuna was the first to volunteer, stepping forward with uncharacteristic boldness. "I'll go first," she announced, gathering a casual outfit. "If I don't do it now, I'll lose my nerve."

When she emerged in denim minishorts and a fitted cropped top, the transformation was remarkable. Gone was the shy, studious girl who always tried to fade into the background. In her place stood someone confident and radiant.

"Yuna!" Emi exclaimed. "You look incredible!"

"I feel incredible," Yuna replied, doing a small spin. "These clothes... they make me feel like a different person. In a good way."

"My turn!" Mediena declared, practically bouncing with excitement as she selected one of the more theatrical outfits, a sheath dress that hugged her curves while maintaining elegance.

The Eosashi emerged looking like she'd stepped off a magazine cover. The dress emphasised her graceful lines while the sophisticated cut brought out a refined side of her theatrical nature.

"I feel like I could perform at the finest venues!" she declared, striking a pose that had the audience applauding.

Fryevia surprised everyone by volunteering next, choosing a bodycon dress that was far more form-fitting than her usual style. The transformation was stunning; the Hestashi's warm nature seemed to glow even brighter, and the way the dress hugged her platinum-highlighted figure drew gasps from the audience.

"This is... different," she said, examining herself in the mirror with wonder. "But I feel beautiful."

"You look incredible!" Asuka called out. "So elegant!"

To everyone's surprise, Miyuki stepped forward next. "May I try something?" she asked quietly, selecting one of the sundresses.

When she emerged, the change was subtle but profound. The soft, feminine lines of the dress seemed to ease some invisible tension she'd been carrying. She looked... peaceful. Content in a way I hadn't seen since we were children.

"Beautiful," Mochi said softly, and for once there was no distance in her voice when she spoke in my presence. "You look really beautiful, oneechan."

Kurenai surprised everyone by choosing one of the more daring casual outfits, a crop gym top and cotton minishorts that showed off her athletic figure beautifully. "I never thought I'd wear something like this," she admitted, "but it's actually really freeing."

"Kurenai!" Ayaka gasped. "You look amazing! So confident!"

"I feel confident," Kurenai replied with a grin. "There's something about clothes that actually fit properly that just makes you stand taller."

Masato emerged wearing his formal blazer with an expression of deep suffering. "Another blazer," he announced to the room. "In my past life, I must have wronged a tailor, because I am cursed to wear formal wear in every situation."

"But you look so handsome!" several of the girls chorused, which only made him look more pained.

Noel surprised me by choosing a mini dress that was perfectly modest yet somehow managed to be incredibly striking on her tall frame. The way the fabric hugged her curves while maintaining an air of sophisticated elegance was remarkable.

"Remarkable," she said, examining herself in the full-length mirror Haruka had thoughtfully provided. "The cut is quite... assertive while maintaining professional dignity."

"You look like you could run the world," Miyako observed approvingly. "Very powerful nation leader energy."

But it was Ruri who truly stole the show when she finally took her turn. She'd chosen an off-the-shoulder dress that somehow managed to make even a relatively conservative design look like it had been created specifically to drive men insane without actually being inappropriate.

"What do you think?" she asked, directing the question at me with a playful wink that made my face flush. "Suitable for diplomatic occasions?"

"You look... devastating," I managed, earning a satisfied smile from her and amused looks from Miyako and several others. "In the best possible way."

Several more people took turns: Hiroko gaining confidence in a pencil dress, Vinera looking elegant in casual wear, and even some of the boys modelling their formal options with varying degrees of enthusiasm.

The fashion show continued with increasingly enthusiastic participation. Each volunteer showcased a unique piece from Haruka's collection: Miyako in denim miniskirts with garter belts, Hitomi in a form-fitting mini dress that highlighted her athletic figure, Asuka in crop gym tops with gym shorts styled like buruma.

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Miyako eventually pulled me aside, her eyes bright with excitement. "This was a brilliant idea, Andie. Look at everyone."

I followed her gaze across the Great Hall. The energy was infectious, Earth students and Voluptarian locals mingling, complimenting each other's outfits, suggesting combinations, helping with adjustments. What had started as a practical clothing distribution had transformed into a community-building event.

"It wasn't really my idea," I admitted. "Haruka made this happen, with help from Aoi and Rina during the measuring phase."

"But you made the clothes possible," she countered, squeezing my hand. "Your Transform ability and Haruka's Tailor skills are a perfect combination."

As the fashion show wound down, Keiko onee-chan called for everyone's attention. "I think we can all agree that Haruka has outdone herself with these designs. Everyone looks wonderful." Everyone put their hands together to clap for Haruka, the females cheering the loudest, making Haruka blush.

Haruka bowed and said, "I hope you all found something you love! For dinner tonight, let's all wear our new clothes, whatever style you prefer. It'll be our first meal together in our new group identity!"

Cheers of approval met her suggestion, and the group began to disperse, clutching their new wardrobes with excitement.

"Sorry guys! Just one more thing before we really release you to change for dinner. Everyone needs to change into their uwabaki slippers. From now on, we're implementing proper indoor footwear protocols," I added.

"What does that mean?" Ruri asked, tilting her rabbit ears curiously as she examined the soft white slippers.

"It's a Japanese custom," Yui explained, already swapping her shoes. "You remove your outdoor footwear when entering certain indoor spaces and wear special indoor shoes instead. It keeps the interior clean and shows respect for the space."

"How fascinating," Noel replied, watching as everyone began the shoe-changing process. "This is a cultural hygiene practice?"

"Partly hygiene, partly respect," Hina confirmed, helping organise the growing pile of outdoor shoes. "In Japanese schools, everyone changes to uwabaki at the entrance. It creates a clear distinction between 'outside' and 'inside' spaces."

"So, these shoe racks serve as a transition point," Viktora observed analytically, her fox ears twitching as she processed the concept. "Very efficient social organisation."

"Exactly," Hiroko said proudly. "It also means everyone's equal inside, it doesn't matter if you have expensive outdoor shoes or simple ones. Inside, everyone wears the same comfortable slippers."

"I quite like this idea," Fryevia said, wiggling her toes in the soft uwabaki. "They're very comfortable, and the equality aspect appeals to Hestashi values."

"Plus," Mediena added with a grin, "they're much better for impromptu performances than heels!"

Within minutes, forty pairs of outdoor shoes were neatly arranged in the wooden shoe racks that had been installed near the sanctuary entrance, and everyone was padding around in matching white uwabaki slippers. The simple act created an immediate sense of shared domestic space that hadn't existed before.

I watched as our Voluptarian companions integrated seamlessly with my Earth classmates, discussing fashion choices and cultural differences with animated interest. Ruri was explaining something about Lunethnari fabric to Airi, who was nodding enthusiastically while examining the detail work on a blouse. Noel and Hina were engaged in what appeared to be a diplomatic discussion of appropriate attire for various cultural contexts. Viktora was analysing the structural integrity of different shoe designs with Kazuki, both of them examining the craftsmanship with analytical precision.

A strange feeling washed over me as I observed them all. For the first time since arriving in Voluptaria, I felt somewhat... superfluous. The group was thriving without my direct involvement. Projects were moving forward, relationships were forming, and problems were being solved, all without me at the centre. This must be what it's like for the protagonist when the side characters develop enough to carry their own plot arcs.

Just a few months ago, this realisation might have bothered me. But now, watching the vibrant community we'd built together, I felt only pride and a quiet satisfaction. This was how it should be, not a leader and followers, but a network of capable individuals supporting each other.

Miyako seemed to sense my thoughts, as she often did. "Missing being the centre of attention?" she asked with gentle teasing.

"No," I realised with surprise. "Actually, I think I like seeing them thrive without me hovering over everything. It means I did something right."

"You did a lot of things right," she said softly, taking my hand. "But maybe now you can just enjoy being part of the group instead of always feeling responsible for holding it together."

I squeezed her hand gratefully. "When did you get so wise?"

"I've always been wise. You just finally started listening," she replied.

I snorted loudly and got a slap at my back.

"Don't get too comfortable," she warned with a playful nudge. "There's still plenty they'll need you for. Speaking of which, I should check on the vehicle progress. Hitomi mentioned wanting to do a chassis test tomorrow morning."

"I'll see you at dinner," I replied, giving her hand a final squeeze before she headed off.

As the Great Hall emptied, I began helping clean up the makeshift runway, reflecting on how far we'd all come from those first frightening days in this world.

Dinner that evening was a kaleidoscope of outfits beneath the flicker of magical lanterns strung along the walls. As requested, everyone had changed into their new clothes, but with no coordination beyond personal preference. The result was cheerful chaos, formal blazers next to crop tops, pencil skirts alongside jeans, sundresses contrasting with uniform shirts.

I'd opted for casual wear, jeans and a simple tee shirt, wanting to blend in rather than stand out. As I entered the Great Hall, I was struck by the transformation. Not just in the clothing, but in the atmosphere. There was an energy, a sense of shared identity despite the variety of outfits.

"There he is!" Hitomi called, waving me over to a table where several of the engineering team had gathered. She'd chosen a bodycon dress that highlighted her athletic figure, paired unexpectedly with leather shoes that gave the outfit a unique edge.

"We were just discussing the vehicle progress," she explained as I took a seat. "Chassis is coming along brilliantly."

"We've mated all three engines with their drive trains," Hina added, looking surprisingly comfortable in a pleated micro miniskirt paired with a more conservative blouse. "The RCU systems are fully integrated now."

"And the best part," Hitomi continued, leaning forward excitedly, "we've modified the RCU settings so they can be changed on the fly. Even Truck-kun can go fast if needed."

"That's incredible progress," I said, genuinely impressed. "Any issues with the integration?"

Kazuki adjusted his glasses, looking somewhat formal in his blazer and long-sleeve shirt. "Minor calibration challenges with the wind runes in the Scout's suspension system, but Kurenai believes she's resolved them. We're planning an all-chassis test tomorrow morning if you're interested."

"I wouldn't miss it," I assured him.

"We've also been discussing vehicle design philosophy," Hina said. "The team has agreed on a modular approach, chassis reusability being the priority. If our needs change in the future, we can modify or replace the body while keeping the chassis intact."

Hitomi nodded. "It puts less pressure on you, too. We figured you wouldn't mind."

I furrowed my brow, adopting a serious expression. "Absolutely hate it. You're making critical design decisions without consulting me?"

The table fell silent, everyone exchanging uncertain glances.

"We thought..." Hina began hesitantly.

I maintained the stern look for a moment longer before breaking into a grin. "I'm joking. I think it's fantastic and exactly the right approach. The modular approach is exactly the kind of innovative thinking that makes this group amazing, and I trust your judgment completely."

Several people threw napkins at me while others laughed in relief.

"Don't do that!" Hitomi exclaimed, throwing a napkin at me. "I thought we'd seriously upset you."

"Sorry," I chuckled. "Couldn't resist. Honestly, I'm thrilled to see everyone taking ownership of these projects. It means I can focus on the things I'm actually good at instead of trying to micromanage every detail."

"You're good at bringing out the best in people," Miyako said softly. "That's not a small thing."

"Speaking of bringing out the best," Kazuki announced, "we all agreed that you need to participate in the chassis testing tomorrow morning. You're still our leader, even if you're not hovering over every decision anymore."

"I don't need to—"

"Yes, you do," several people said simultaneously.

"The vehicles were your idea originally," Hitomi pointed out. "And you should be part of testing them."

"Well, it was Haruka that suggested it. I only merely provided the space," I replied.

"Well," Airi added with a grin, "we want to see your face when you experience what we've built."

I looked around the table, seeing expectant faces and gentle insistence in their expressions. Miyako squeezed my hand encouragingly.

"Alright," I conceded. "I'd be honoured to participate in the testing."

The pleased reactions around the table made it clear this had been as much about including me as about the practical testing needs.

Our conversation was interrupted as Keiko onee-chan, still strange to think of Amakata-sensei that way, stood up from her table and gently tapped a glass for attention. She'd chosen a formal blazer with a pencil skirt, maintaining a teacher's professional appearance despite her request for a more familiar address.

"Everyone," she began, her voice carrying easily across the now-quiet hall, "I'd like to say a few words."

All eyes turned toward her as she surveyed the room with a warm smile.

"When I saw all of us in these clothes today, I was struck by a thought." Her voice carried the warmth that had made her transition from formal teacher to beloved older sister so natural. "I never imagined we'd see the day when we'd all wear matching outfits not because we had to, like school uniforms back home, but because we chose to. Because we wanted to belong to something together."

She paused, looking around the table at all of us. "These clothes represent more than just fabric and thread. They represent our choice to be a family, to face whatever comes as a united group rather than a collection of individuals thrown together by chance."

"We've all changed so much since that first day in Paradise Heights," she continued, her voice growing softer. "We've lost friends, gained new ones, discovered strengths we never knew we had. But through it all, we've chosen each other. And that choice, that deliberate decision to care for one another, that's what makes us stronger than any magic or system ability."

"So, when I see Yuna glowing with newfound confidence, or Masato suffering nobly in his blazer while still looking handsome, or our Voluptarian friends embracing Earth fashion with such grace... I see a family that chose itself. And that makes me prouder than any teaching achievement ever could."

She raised her glass of water. "To the threads that bind us, both the literal ones created so beautifully today, and the invisible ones woven by shared experience, mutual care, and chosen love."

"To family," Miyako responded, raising her own glass.

"To family!" the table chorused, and forty glasses clinked together in a moment of perfect unity.

As the toast concluded and conversation resumed, Vinera approached our table. She'd chosen her standard issue formal wear but somehow made the Earth-style blazer and pencil skirt look distinctly Nyxashi in her bearing.

"I hope I'm not interrupting," she said, her amber eyes scanning our group with typical analytical precision, "but there's an important matter we should discuss regarding our approach to Takejin territory."

"Please, join us," Hina offered, sliding over to make room.

Vinera sat with fluid grace. "I've been researching Takejin cultural norms and protocols. Their expectations regarding clothing and technology are extremely conservative. Our current vehicles and even these uniforms might present... complications."

"What kind of complications?" Hitomi asked, her brow furrowing.

"The Takejin view technology beyond a certain complexity as suspicious," Vinera explained. "Magical enhancement of any kind is considered dishonourable, and our vehicles are heavily enhanced. Additionally, while our uniforms appear modest by our standards, some elements might be considered inappropriate in their culture."

"The formal wear should be fine," Ruri replied. "But some of the casual options might raise eyebrows. And the vehicles... those will definitely draw attention."

"Should we hide them?" Hina asked practically. "Use enchantments or camouflage?"

"That depends on the approach we want to take," Noel said thoughtfully. "We could conceal our technological advantages and try to blend in, which might make initial contact easier. Or we could be transparent about what we've accomplished and try to earn respect through honest demonstration."

"Both approaches have risks," Viktora observed. "Concealment could be seen as deception if discovered. But displaying advanced technology might be interpreted as threatening or boastful."

"What's the Takejin attitude toward innovation?" I asked.

"They respect mastery and craftsmanship," Noel explained. "If they see our vehicles as evidence of skilled work rather than shortcuts to power, they might be impressed rather than threatened."

"We should probably plan for both scenarios," Miyako suggested. "Have concealment options ready but default to honest presentation unless the situation suggests otherwise."

As the discussion continued, I observed the dynamic with interest. Different voices were being heard, perspectives considered, and a consensus gradually taking shape. This wasn't the hasty decision-making of our early days but a thoughtful process that valued diverse input.

Eventually, it was decided that we would approach with honesty but cultural sensitivity, acknowledging our differences while demonstrating respect for Takejin values. The vehicles would be modified to operate without obvious magical effects when in their territory, and everyone would have appropriate clothing options for different cultural contexts.

As dinner wound down and people began dispersing to evening activities, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. The clothing project had been about more than just fabric and fashion. It had been about creating visible unity while celebrating individual expression. And judging by the laughter, confidence, and camaraderie on display tonight, it had succeeded beyond my hopes.

Later that evening, I made my way back to my hidden sanctuary, planning to spend some quiet time reviewing the day and preparing for tomorrow's vehicle testing. The concealed entrance responded to my presence as always, revealing the passage to my private space beyond.

I'd barely settled into the lounge area when I heard voices approaching through the outer chamber. A moment later, Miyako, Ruri, and Noel appeared through the entrance, all carrying armfuls of the newly distributed clothing.

"Hope you don't mind the intrusion," Miyako said with a grin. "But we thought you might enjoy a more private fashion show."

"Consider it a consultation," Ruri added, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "We need an expert opinion on fit and style."

"I'm hardly a fashion expert," I protested, though I couldn't deny I was intrigued by the prospect. Sometimes I think the universe is just messing with me at this point. Why else would three beautiful women show up for a private fashion show right when I thought I'd have a quiet evening?

"You have excellent taste in women," Noel replied with diplomatic precision that somehow managed to be both innocent and suggestive. "We trust your judgment."

Before I could formulate a response, they'd arranged themselves around the room and begun sorting through their clothing selections. The casual way they treated my space as theirs warmed my heart, even as the implications of a private fashion show made my pulse quicken.

"Let's start with something casual," Miyako announced, selecting a spaghetti strap tank top and cotton miniskirt. "Basic summer wear."

She disappeared into the bedroom to change, leaving me with Ruri and Noel, who were examining their own clothing choices with the intensity of military strategists planning a campaign.

"I'm curious about this 'crop top' concept," Ruri mused, holding up the abbreviated garment. "It seems designed to draw attention to specific... areas."

"That would be the point," Noel replied dryly, examining a micro dress with analytical interest. "Though I admit I'm fascinated by the engineering challenges of some of these designs."

When Miyako emerged from the bedroom, I had to work to keep my expression neutral. The outfit was casual and perfectly modest by Earth standards, but seeing her in the fitted tank top and short skirt created an entirely different impression than her usual blazer or adventure gear. The golden tan of her skin seemed to glow against the fabric, and the way the clothes hugged her curves was... distracting.

"What do you think?" she asked, doing a small turn that made the skirt flare slightly and gave me a brief glimpse of her legs that made my breath catch. "Too casual for Takejin territory?"

"It's... perfect for casual wear here," I managed. "Though you're right about the Takejin possibly finding it too informal for their tastes."

"Let me try something even more casual," she said with a mischievous smile, selecting a crop gym top and cotton minishorts before disappearing back into the bedroom.

Her second appearance was even more challenging to my composure. The crop top showed off her toned midriff, and the minishorts displayed her legs to devastating effect. When she bent over slightly to adjust her socks, the shorts rode up enough to make me realise I was staring and quickly look away.

"These are surprisingly comfortable," she said innocently, though her pleased smile suggested she'd caught my reaction. "Very freeing for movement."

"My turn," Ruri announced, gathering her own selections. "I want to experiment with Earth fashion philosophy."

She vanished into the bedroom while Miyako settled next to me on the comfortable seating, close enough that I could smell her familiar perfume mixed with the clean scent of new fabric.

"She's going to look incredible," Miyako predicted with amused resignation. "Ruri could make a potato sack look seductive."

"You look incredible too," I said softly, earning a pleased smile.

Ruri's entrance proved Miyako's prediction accurate. The Lunethnari had chosen a crop top and cotton pleated micro miniskirt combination that should have looked silly given her more voluptuous figure compared to Earth fashion norms. Instead, she looked like she'd stepped out of some impossible fashion magazine specifically calculated to short-circuit male brain function.

"Interesting construction," she said, examining herself in the mirror with academic interest while I tried not to stare at the expanse of pale skin between the top and skirt. "Very... strategic use of fabric."

When she turned to pose, the micro miniskirt flared just enough to make me realise I was holding my breath.

"Ruri," Noel said with fond exasperation, "you're going to give Andie a heart attack."

"I'm fine," I croaked, then cleared my throat. "You look... that's definitely going to turn heads."

"Good or bad head-turning?" Ruri asked innocently, though her playful smile suggested she knew exactly what effect she was having.

"Let's go with 'memorable,'" I replied diplomatically.

"Now let me try something completely different," she announced, selecting what appeared to be a micro dress before vanishing back into the bedroom.

When she emerged, the sight of her in the tiny dress that clung to every curve while barely reaching mid-thigh made me grateful I was sitting down. The way the fabric hugged her generous figure was nothing short of architectural marvel.

"This is quite... snug," she observed, smoothing the dress down with movements that only emphasised how the fabric stretched across her curves. When she bent slightly to examine her reflection in the mirror, the dress rode up enough to reveal she was definitely testing the garment's structural limits.

"That's... very form-fitting," I managed weakly.

"My turn," Noel announced, selecting what appeared to be one of the more daring combinations. "I want to try something unexpected."

She disappeared into the bedroom, leaving me with Miyako and Ruri, who were both grinning like they knew something I didn't.

"What?" I asked suspiciously.

"Noel has been very interested in Earth fashion concepts," Ruri explained innocently. "Particularly the ones that challenge expectations."

When Noel emerged, I understood what they meant. The diplomatic rabbit-woman had chosen a bodycon dress that was perfectly modest yet somehow managed to be incredibly striking on her tall frame. The way the fabric hugged curves I hadn't realised she'd been hiding beneath those diplomatic robes was remarkable.

"Well," she said, examining herself critically in the mirror, "this is certainly different from diplomatic attire."

"Different good or different bad?" I asked, still trying to process the transformation.

"You tell me," she replied, turning to face me with a slight smile. When she moved, the dress shifted in ways that emphasised just how well it fit her impressive figure.

"Let me try something else," she added, selecting a mini dress. "For comparison purposes."

Her second outfit was even more striking. The mini dress showcased her long legs beautifully while the fitted top portion revealed that diplomatic robes had been seriously underselling her assets.

"This is quite... liberating," she said, doing a small turn that made the skirt flare and gave me a view of her legs that made my mouth go dry. "I understand now why Earth fashion emphasises such... precise fitting."

The rest of the evening continued in similar fashion, with the three of them cycling through increasingly challenging combinations while I tried to provide coherent commentary.

Miyako returned wearing a micro dress that showcased her legs beautifully, the short hemline riding up when she sat down in a way that made me very conscious of where I was looking. She followed that with a maxi dress that somehow managed to be both modest and alluring, the flowing fabric hinting at rather than revealing her figure.

Ruri seemed determined to test the limits of both fashion and my composure. She modelled a denim miniskirt with a spaghetti strap tank top, bending over to adjust her heels in a way that made me realise the skirt was even shorter than it had initially appeared. Her final outfit, a pencil dress that hugged every curve, prompted her to pose in the mirror with movements that demonstrated exactly how well Earth fashion could showcase Lunethnari assets.

Noel continued to surprise me with her choices. A sheath dress that revealed she had been seriously underselling her figure in diplomatic wear, followed by an off-the-shoulder dress that combined elegance with subtle allure. Each outfit revealed new aspects of her personality that had been hidden beneath professional attire.

"You realise," I said eventually, settling back into the seating as they debated accessories, "that I'm going to have a very difficult time concentrating on vehicle testing tomorrow after this."

"Good," all three replied simultaneously, then laughed at their synchronisation.

"We want to make sure we stay memorable," Miyako explained, settling down beside me in her current outfit, the maxi dress that managed to be both sweet and alluring.

"Mission accomplished," I assured them.

As the evening progressed, the energy shifted from playful fashion show to comfortable intimacy. The three of them seemed content to simply enjoy my company, chatting about everything from tomorrow's testing to cultural differences to speculation about what we'd find in Takejin territory.

"I think we should sleep here tonight," Ruri announced suddenly as the conversation began winding down. "All of us. Just... together."

"No ulterior motives?" I asked, though I hoped the answer was yes to staying and no to complications.

"None tonight," Noel confirmed softly. "Just the four of us, comfortable and close."

"I vote yes," Miyako said, settling more firmly against my side. "This bed is definitely big enough, and honestly? I sleep better when I know where everyone is."

Looking around at their expectant faces, Miyako warm and trusting against my side, Noel elegant and serene, Ruri playful but genuinely affectionate, I felt a deep sense of contentment that had nothing to do with the attractive women sharing my space and everything to do with the bonds we'd built.

"Sounds perfect," I agreed.

As we settled into the oversized bed, the three of them arranging themselves around me with practised ease, I reflected on how much had changed since my solitary nights in the original sanctuary. The fashion show, the group dynamics at dinner, the easy intimacy of this moment, all of it spoke to relationships that had grown far beyond survival cooperation into something that felt genuinely like family.

"Three beautiful women who want nothing more than to sleep next to me," I thought drowsily as their breathing began to even out. "After a private fashion show that would have killed me in my previous life. Either I'm the luckiest man in two worlds, or I'm about to wake up in that Paradise Heights classroom and discover this was all a very elaborate dream."

Given everything we'd been through together, I was betting on luck.

"Divine credit can buy fabric," I thought as I drifted toward sleep, surrounded by warmth, "but the threads that truly matter are the ones we weave together."

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