Sunlight filtered through the enchanted skylight of my hidden sanctuary, casting a warm glow across the oversized bed. For the first time since creating this space, I woke up completely alone. The absence of Miyako's warmth against my right side, Ruri's gentle breathing to my left, and Noel's soft presence beyond her left an emptiness that felt almost physical. A strangely melancholy way to start the morning after getting engaged, I supposed.

I stretched my arm across the empty expanse of sheets, still faintly holding their scents. Last night had been... different. After the excitement of the proposal and testing the rings' powers, I'd asked Miyako if she wanted to officially move into my room.

"Tonight, I want to sleep in my own bed one last time," she had said, a soft smile playing on her lips. "A proper goodbye to my private space before I officially move in with my fiancé."

She'd kissed me, the ring on her finger glowing softly between us. "Besides, I think everyone needs a little space to process everything that's happened."

I'd nodded, understanding her logic even as something in me wanted to protest. But another thought had nagged at me all night, keeping me restless despite my exhaustion.

Ruri and Noel had disappeared during my proposal to Miyako.

The memory of Airi's explanation still echoed in my mind. "They slipped out right when you got down on one knee," she had told us in a low voice after the Aspects had departed. "Ruri tried to play it off, saying something about too much dessert making her feel unwell, but her ears were completely drooped. And Noel..." She had shaken her head. "Noel called me 'Airi-san' when they excused themselves. I've never heard her use that kind of formality before."

I'd wanted to go after them immediately, but Miyako had gently placed her hand on my arm.

"They needed some space," she'd said gently. "This is a big change, even with their cultural differences."

"But will they come back?" I'd asked, feeling a pang of concern that had only grown stronger through the night.

"Of course they will," Miyako had replied with quiet confidence. "They care about you too much to stay away for long."

Airi had nodded in agreement. "Trust me, I've seen how they look at you. Just give them time to process this."

The conversation had continued, with Miyako suggesting that some Voluptarian customs actually fit our situation better than Earth rules. But now, waking up alone, I couldn't help but wonder if we'd fundamentally misunderstood something about Velunari relationships. Had my proposal somehow broken some unspoken cultural rule? Or worse, had I hurt them without realising it?

I sighed, swinging my legs over the edge of the bed. Day 72 had arrived, time to face whatever new chaos awaited me. Because an isekai protagonist's work is never done, especially when there's emotional drama to navigate.

Breakfast in the Great Hall was already in full swing when I arrived. The atmosphere was lively, with excited chatter about the vehicle testing, portal research, and the upcoming Takejin journey. I scanned the room, quickly spotting Miyako at our usual table alongside Hitomi, Hina, and several others. She looked up as I approached, her amber eyes lighting with warmth, the ring on her finger catching the morning light.

And there, at the far end of the table, sat Ruri and Noel.

The Velunari women were engaged in what appeared to be a serious discussion with Haruka and Kazuki, their long rabbit ears perked in attention. They looked... normal. Professional. As if nothing had changed.

Except everything had.

"The protagonist finally arrives!" Ryota called out as I approached, drawing attention from nearby tables. "Sleep well in your empty palace, Andie?"

"Shut up, Ryota," Miyako said without heat, making room for me beside her.

I slid into the seat, acutely aware of Ruri and Noel's gazes briefly flickering toward me before returning to their conversation. So much for hoping they'd just been tired last night and everything would be normal today.

"Good morning," I offered to the table at large.

Noel nodded politely. "Good morning, Andie. We were discussing the final preparations for today's work."

Her voice was perfectly composed, the diplomatic tone she used for council meetings rather than the warm familiarity I'd grown accustomed to. Ruri simply smiled, not her usual mischievous grin but something more measured.

"Miyako was just telling us about your ring enchantments," Hitomi said, leaning forward with interest. "Strength sharing? Teleportation? That's some serious magic."

"How thoughtful," Airi added with a teasing smile. "Making sure your fiancée has super strength in case you misbehave."

Laughter rippled around the table, and I felt myself relax slightly. At least some things hadn't changed.

"The rings are incredible," Miyako said, holding up her hand to display the Concordium band. "I tested the teleport function this morning, teleported directly to Andie, but then had to walk back to my room to finish getting ready."

"Very practical," Noel commented, her cream-coloured ears with golden tips shifting slightly. "Such efficient transportation would be invaluable during emergencies."

There it was again, that polite, diplomatic tone. As if we were discussing trade agreements rather than magical items I'd crafted with emotion and intention.

"You should be careful, Andie-kun," Ruri said, her voice light but lacking her usual flirtatious edge. "In some cultures, such powerful gifts create significant obligations. The giver becomes responsible for the recipient's well-being."

"I'm prepared for that responsibility," I replied, meeting her lavender eyes directly.

Something flickered in her gaze, a brief vulnerability quickly masked by another polite smile. "Of course you are. You've always been... responsible."

The conversation shifted to the day's plans, vehicle tuning, clothing production, and portal research. Throughout the discussion, Ruri and Noel participated actively but maintained that subtle distance, addressing me with the same polite formality they showed everyone else. Gone were the playful innuendos, the casual touches, the sense of intimate connection we'd developed.

I caught Miyako watching me with concern in her eyes. She reached for my hand under the table, squeezing gently.

"They'll be back," she telepathed. "Just give them time."

But the cool formality I was experiencing didn't match her reassurance. Had I misunderstood something fundamental about Velunari relationships? Had the proposal to Miyako been seen as a rejection rather than a first step?

As breakfast concluded, the group dispersed to their various tasks. Miyako headed off with Hitomi for vehicle tuning, while Noel excused herself to join the portal research team. Ruri remained briefly, collecting her dishes with precise movements.

"Will you be joining us for the clothing project?" I asked her, desperate to maintain some connection.

"Later, perhaps," she replied with a small smile that didn't reach her eyes. "I promised to help Miyuki with some magical theory first."

And then she was gone, her silver-patterned ears disappearing among the crowd, leaving me with the hollow feeling that something precious was slipping through my fingers. This wasn't going according to any isekai relationship script I was familiar with.

"Earth to Andie. Hello? Anyone home?"

Haruka's voice snapped me back to the present. We were in the workshop, surrounded by bolts of fabric, measuring tools, and reference materials for traditional Japanese clothing.

"Sorry," I mumbled, refocusing on the clothing templates spread before us. "Just... thinking."

"About your missing rabbit girls?" Haruka asked with surprising directness, lowering her voice so others wouldn't hear.

I looked up sharply. "What?"

"Oh, come on," she said, rolling her eyes. "Everyone noticed they disappeared during your proposal, and now they're acting like you're just some guy they met at a conference. Doesn't take a genius to figure out there's drama."

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Is it that obvious?"

"Only to everyone with eyes," she replied, but her tone was sympathetic rather than mocking. "Look, I don't know what's going on with your... arrangement. That's your business. But whatever's happening, we've still got work to do."

She was right. I nodded, focusing on the clothing templates she'd designed. "These look incredible, Haruka. You've really captured the traditional styles while making them practical for our needs."

"Of course I did," she said with her usual confidence, but I could see she was pleased by the compliment. "I've designed the kamishimo for the men to be authentic but with adjustments for greater mobility. The kimono for the women will be traditional in appearance but with some hidden features for functionality."

I examined the sketches more closely. The men's kamishimo consisted of hakama pants, a kataginu vest, and several layered garments, while the women's kimono featured the classic wrapped design with elaborate obi sashes.

"This feels like our uniform project all over again," I said with a small smile, remembering how well we'd worked together just days ago to create the standardised outfits for everyone.

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"Except this time, we're going full traditional instead of modern," Haruka replied. "But yes, same workflow, you transform the base garments, I handle the finishing touches and customisation."

"At least we already have everyone's measurements from last time," I noted. "That should speed things up considerably."

A flash of cream-coloured rabbit ears caught my attention as Noel entered the workshop, carrying several scrolls. She moved with that perfect grace that seemed effortless, her diplomatic robes flowing around her tall frame. When she saw us, she paused, then approached with measured steps.

"Haruka, Andie," she greeted formally, placing the scrolls on the table. "These contain information about Takejin formal protocols that might be useful for your clothing project."

"Thank you, Noel," Haruka said brightly. "This is perfect timing! We were just finalising the designs."

Noel nodded, her violet eyes briefly meeting mine before shifting back to the scrolls. "The Takejin have specific expectations regarding formal attire. While your Earth-style kimono and kamishimo will be recognised as foreign equivalents to their own traditional garments, certain colours and patterns carry significance in their culture."

She unrolled one of the scrolls, revealing detailed illustrations of Takejin formal wear. "Note the muted colours and geometric patterns. The Takejin believe ostentatious displays indicate lack of discipline."

As she explained the cultural nuances, her voice remained perfectly poised, the consummate diplomat sharing valuable information. Not once did she refer to our shared moments or the intimacy we'd developed.

"This is incredibly helpful," Haruka said, making notes on her sketches. "We'll incorporate these considerations into the designs."

Noel nodded, gathering the remaining scrolls. "If you need additional information, I'll be in the library assisting with the tele-portal research."

As she turned to leave, I impulsively reached out, my fingers almost brushing her arm before I caught myself. "Noel, wait..."

She paused, looking back with those unreadable violet eyes. "Yes, Andie?"

The formality in her voice made the words I wanted to say die in my throat. "Thank you," I said instead. "For the information."

Something flickered in her expression, perhaps sadness, perhaps resignation. "Of course. It's my duty as liaison to ensure the expedition has all necessary cultural context."

With that, she departed, her cream-coloured ears with golden tips disappearing through the doorway.

Haruka watched her go, then turned to me with raised eyebrows. "Okay, that was painful to watch. What happened between you two?"

I shook my head, unable to articulate the complex emotions swirling within me. "It's... complicated."

"Clearly," she said dryly. "Well, if you want my advice, not that you asked, you should talk to them. Directly. No diplomatic dance, no waiting for them to come around. Just... talk."

"You're right," I admitted. "But first, let's focus on these clothes. The sooner we finish this project, the sooner I can deal with... everything else."

Haruka nodded, apparently satisfied with that answer. "Alright, let's get started. I'll gather the team while you prepare the materials."

Within an hour, the workshop had transformed into a bustling production centre. Bolts of fabric in various colours filled the tables, while measuring tapes, scissors, and sewing tools were arranged in neat stations. Haruka had recruited several helpers, including Airi, Rina, Aoi, and other students with sewing experience.

"Alright, everyone," Haruka announced, clapping her hands for attention. "We have a lot to accomplish today. Just like with our uniform project, we'll be using Andie's Transform ability to create the base garments quickly, and then we'll handle the finishing touches and customisations."

She held up a template for the men's kamishimo. "Each male will receive a formal kamishimo consisting of hakama pants, kimono undershirt, and kataginu vest. We're using these muted colours based on Noel's information about Takejin preferences."

Airi examined the template with interest. "This is really authentic. Did you study traditional Japanese clothing before?"

"I had a phase," Haruka replied with a shrug. "Plus, with divine smartphones, we have access to tons of reference materials."

I stepped forward, taking a bolt of dark blue fabric. "I'll create the base garments using Transform, then Haruka and her team will handle the details, same workflow as the uniform project, just with different styles."

Concentrating on the template, I channelled my Transform ability into the fabric. The material shifted and flowed under my control, reshaping into the distinct components of a kamishimo. The hakama took form first, pleated pants with a distinctive silhouette, followed by the kimono undershirt and finally the structured kataginu vest.

"I'm still amazed at how smoothly that works," Aoi commented, watching the transformation. "You two make quite the team."

"We've had practice now," Haruka said, already making adjustments to the garment. "The uniform project was good training for this."

Ryota examined the finished kamishimo with a critical eye. "Still not sure about wearing what looks like a skirt."

"It's not a skirt, it's hakama," Kazuki corrected, adjusting his glasses. "Traditional samurai wear."

"Exactly," Haruka said, already making adjustments to the garment. "These are worn by warriors and nobility. You'll look dignified, not feminine."

Ryota grinned. "As long as I still look good for the ladies."

"Nothing could help with that," Hitomi quipped, prompting laughter around the workshop.

As we settled into a rhythm, I began producing base garments while Haruka's team added the finishing touches. For the women's kimono, I created the complex wrapped garments while the tailors added proper folds, secure fastenings, and decorative elements.

Throughout the morning, people drifted in and out of the workshop, examining our progress and offering suggestions. Miyako stopped by between vehicle tuning sessions, her eyes lighting up at the elegant kimono Haruka was preparing for her.

"That's beautiful," she said, running her fingers over the subtly patterned silk. "I haven't worn a proper kimono since my cousin's wedding."

"It'll look gorgeous on you," Haruka assured her. "We're keeping the designs authentic while making them practical for travel."

Miyako caught my eye across the workshop, her expression softening. She approached as I was working on another batch of hakama.

"How are you holding up?" she asked quietly.

"Fine," I replied automatically, then sighed at her sceptical look. "Okay, not fine. I don't understand what's happening with Ruri and Noel. I thought... I thought they would be happy for us."

Miyako's hand found mine, her ring warm against my skin. "They are happy for us, Andie. But they're also... adjusting. Remember, they're from a culture where relationship dynamics are different. They probably didn't expect you to formally propose to anyone."

"But you said..."

"I know what I said," she interrupted gently. "And I believe they'll come around. But that doesn't mean it's easy for them. Give them space to process. Focus on this project for now."

She was right, as usual. I nodded, squeezing her hand before returning to my work.

The yukata were simpler to create, casual summer kimono that everyone would receive as comfortable everyday wear. I made these in brighter colours and more varied patterns, since they weren't for formal diplomatic occasions.

"Now these I can get behind," Masato said, examining a completed yukata. "Looks comfortable."

"The Takejin wear similar garments daily," Noel explained, having returned briefly to check our progress. "They value simplicity and functionality in their attire."

Her presence sent a ripple of awareness through me, but she maintained that diplomatic distance, speaking to the group rather than addressing me directly.

"What about footwear?" Naoki asked, ever practical. "Will our usual shoes work with these outfits?"

"Traditional geta and zori would be most appropriate," Haruka replied. "Andie, can you transform some for us?"

I nodded, already visualising the wooden sandals and soft-soled slippers that would complement the traditional garments. As I worked, I was acutely aware of Noel watching from the periphery, her expression thoughtful.

When she left again, Haruka sidled up beside me. "Okay, that was even more awkward than before. Did you say something to her while I was getting supplies?"

"No," I sighed. "She's just... being Noel."

"Being a diplomat, you mean," Haruka observed shrewdly. "All formal and proper. Not like the Noel who was giggling with you guys two days ago."

Before I could respond, Ruri entered the workshop, her silver-patterned ears immediately drawing attention. Unlike Noel's careful distance, Ruri approached directly, examining our progress with obvious interest.

"These are remarkably accurate," she commented, running her fingers along a completed kimono. "You've captured the essence of your traditional Japanese and of Takejin attire."

"Thanks," Haruka beamed. "We're trying to be authentic while adapting for our needs."

Ruri nodded, her lavender eyes briefly meeting mine before shifting away. "The Takejin will appreciate the effort. They value respect for tradition above most things."

She moved around the workshop, offering suggestions and explaining aspects of Takejin culture she'd learned from Noel. Though she maintained physical proximity, emotionally she felt miles away, her usual flirtatious nature replaced by professional courtesy.

As the morning progressed, we completed garment after garment: kamishimo for the men, kimono for the women, and yukata for everyone. Footwear followed, with geta, zori, and tabi socks to complement the traditional attire.

By lunchtime, we had produced a complete wardrobe of traditional clothing for the entire expedition, forty sets of formal wear and casual yukata, plus appropriate footwear.

"We're getting better at this," Airi said, surveying our work with satisfaction. "That went even faster than the uniform project."

"Practice makes perfect," Haruka replied with a grin. "Plus, Andie's transform ability is basically cheating."

"Effective resource allocation," Kazuki corrected, adjusting his glasses. "Utilising our unique capabilities for maximum efficiency."

"Let's see how they look," Hitomi suggested. "We should try them on before lunch."

The Great Hall erupted in excitement as people began trying on their new traditional garments. The men looked surprisingly dignified in their kamishimo, the structured silhouettes giving them an air of authority. The women's kimono were elegant and refined, the muted colours and subtle patterns creating a harmonious visual impression.

"These are incredible," Keiko onee-chan said, admiring her kimono. "They feel authentic but aren't restrictive like some traditional garments."

"That was the goal," Haruka explained proudly. "Traditional appearance with practical modifications."

I watched as Miyako emerged from the changing area in her kimono, a deep blue garment with subtle silver accents that complemented her platinum blonde hair with pink highlights perfectly. She moved with natural grace, the fabric flowing around her as if she'd worn such garments all her life.

"You look beautiful," I told her when she approached.

She smiled, smoothing the fabric of her kimono. "It feels right somehow. Like connecting with our heritage while embracing this new world."

My attention was drawn to movement near the entrance, Ruri and Noel had returned, both now dressed in their kimono. Despite their height and distinctive rabbit ears, they looked surprisingly natural in the traditional Earth garments. Ruri's kimono was a deep purple that echoed her lavender eyes, while Noel's was a warm golden hue that complemented her cream-coloured ears with gold tips.

For a moment, I allowed myself to simply admire them, their otherworldly beauty enhanced rather than diminished by the Earth clothing. Then they noticed my gaze, and that familiar diplomatic mask fell into place.

"The garments are excellent," Noel commented as they approached our group. "The Takejin will recognise the respect we're showing their cultural sensibilities."

"You both look stunning," Miyako said warmly, seemingly unbothered by the formality in Noel's tone.

"Thank you," Ruri replied with a small smile. "The craftsmanship is impressive. Haruka and Andie have created something truly special."

There was genuine appreciation in her voice, but that intimate connection, the playful teasing, the casual touches, remained absent.

As everyone gathered for lunch, still admiring each other's traditional attire, I found myself falling into quiet introspection. The clothing project had been a success, we now had appropriate garments for our journey to Takejin territory. But the emotional distance from Ruri and Noel felt like a wound that wouldn't heal.

"They really do look amazing," Miyako murmured beside me, following my gaze to where the Velunari women were engaged in conversation with Viktora and Vinera.

"Yes," I agreed, unable to hide the longing in my voice. "They do."

Miyako's hand found mine under the table. "Talk to them, Andie. After lunch. This limbo isn't good for any of you."

I nodded, squeezing her hand gratefully. "You're right. I will."

But as lunch concluded and people began dispersing to their afternoon tasks, both Ruri and Noel excused themselves, Ruri to assist Miyuki with a magical experiment, and Noel to continue the tele-portal research with Kazuki and Airi.

I watched them go, a sense of helplessness washing over me. How could I fix this if they wouldn't even give me a chance to speak with them?

With a heavy sigh, I rose from the table. There had to be a way to bridge this growing divide, to heal whatever hurt my proposal to Miyako had caused. I couldn't, wouldn't, accept this new formal distance as permanent.

I headed back to my workshop, silently determined to create something worthy to heal the divides. After all, isekai protagonists are supposed to be able to fix everything with enough determination and the right magical crafting project... right?

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