The body naturally becomes flush after getting out of the bath, requiring replenishment for its lost fluids.

Wearing only a bath towel around the neck, with a comfortable pair of shorts suited for relaxing at home.

Ousawa Akatsuki left the changing room to go to the kitchen, where he opened the refrigerator door.

The cool air leaked out and touched his body. While a little chilly it was still comfortable.

"Ah......there it is."

After finding what he was looking for he instinctively smiled.

When he removed it from refrigerator it made a clanking noise in the palm of his hand.

Akatsuki grabbed a couple of bottles of cold milk to relieve his thirst.

He gently shut the refrigerator door behind him, then placed a bottle on the stainless steel kitchen counter. He used his thumb pressure to pop open the cap on the bottle of milk.

The cap bounced up into the air, rotating round and round, while it was dancing Akatsuki started chugging.

It was gone in one gulp.

"Ahh...fua! It simply is delicious."

The bottle just left his lips when he used the right thumb of the hand that was holding the gla.s.s to catch the falling cap.

Akatsuki wiped his lips with the back of the hand.

-- Most of the fresh milk on the market is sold in paper cartons and is less expensive than gla.s.s bottles of fresh milk, which now have become almost a luxury good. Even so, fresh milk is still being sold in bottles, and did not disappear from the market.

That is because they have an advantage that milk lovers go crazy over.

In a paper carton or poured into a cup, after touching the tip of the tongue a small sense of the milk's taste can be lost.

But bottled milk is different. It's container cool down along with the milk. So the moment the fresh milk touches the lips it is just concentrated pure deliciousness. And the satisfaction of drinking it in one gulp is even more wonderful.

Keeping the carton milk in the refrigerator is the best way to keep the taste of the milk. Same goes for the bottles of fresh milk.

-- Of course, Ousawa's refrigerator is also stocked with cartons of fresh milk. But he can't drink straight out of a carton for fear of the gripes the two girls living would have with him.

Paper cartons are no better at keeping the milk cool than gla.s.s bottles, but putting gla.s.ses for the milk in the refrigerator seemed to be a little too excessive.

So for Akatsuki, bottles of fresh milk are the perfect choice for combining both flavor and life style.

"If there is a downside......it doesn't hold more."

With a wry smile Akatsuki put the empty bottle into the sink.

He picked up the second bottle, however this time he had no intentions of gulping it down.

Akatsuki only took tiny sips as he savored the fresh milk's flavor. Suddenly the door leading to the living room opened.

".....Ah, did you just get out of the bath?"

A young girl walked into the kitchen, and stood in front of Akatsuki.

Miu came walking over looking a little embarra.s.sed to be dressed in her pajamas.

For "certain reasons" she was only wearing the top part of her oversized pajamas. Despite her lovely features she still had a hint of childishness left. Her features could be said to be exquisite and possessed a charm that could enchant all men.

Especially -- the very destructive power her b.o.o.bs posses from their magnitude.

Regardless of whether it was a man or woman, everyone's eyes were drawn in by her b.o.o.bs.

Originally her pajamas were bought according to the dimensions of her chest, but now the bottom half of the pajamas were too loose.

She had no other options but to give up on the trousers and expose her white thighs.

Miu feared that her appearance was a little too shameful; the hem of her top barely covered anything.

"Excuse me, I came to wash some dishes."

After she said that to Akatsuki, Miu walked over to the sink -- next to him.

In her hand she held a tray loaded with multiple empty gla.s.ses and small plates.

Having finished a snack, she probably came to clear away the dishes.

However, whereas before there was only one person living in this house, now there are three: Akatsuki, Miu, and Listy.

Since Akatsuki was standing in the kitchen he could see the plates and cups on the tray -- there should only be enough for to two people. However, the number of plates and gla.s.ses on the tray made it look like five people were here.

This means that Akatsuki appeared to have guests.

It was around midnight. Akatsuki just had a nice bath, and Miu was in her pajamas. However, there seemed to be guests in the Ousawa home.

"Hehe, he-heh, hun~"

Miu was cheerfully was.h.i.+ng the dishes. After Akatsuki handed over the sink to her, with his fresh milk in hand he retreated out the rear.

However, near the breakfast table he stopped. His eyes were glued to Miu's hips as she leaned in to wash.

Usually after she showered she put on her pajamas without tying up her hair in a double pony tail, and let it hang down naturally. Miu's hair was long enough to reach her knees, just enough to completely cover her b.u.t.t. Plus the hem from her pajama top allows her the freedom from worrying about someone being able to peep between the exposed gap left from her pajamas.

However today Miu had her hair up, probably because she had visitors over and it would presumably easier to be a good host if she tied up her hair in a double ponytail. She was humming while washes the dishes, and whenever Miu moved her hands her perfectly round b.u.t.t could be seen swaying side to side.

-- Indescribably erotic.

"It seems that you're having a lot of fun."

"Yeah, I'm very happy. This is my first time hanging out with my friends at home all night."

Miu said, while joyfully laughing "Hehe".

It appeared Ousawa's home had three visitors, Izumi Chikage, Doumoto Kuzuha and Nanase Haruka. They were important friends to both Akatsuki and Miu, and irreplaceable companions.

Even when they returned to the alternate world Alayzard, the girls came with Miu and Akatsuki.

However, their chance to play together and deepen their friends.h.i.+p though those bonds didn't happen. They became friends through fighting together, because they once again visited Alayzard aiming to "end of war between Humans and Demons".

Therefore, Chikage proposed that the trio have a sleep over at Akatsuki's home.

......Thanks to Izumi.

Chikage thought this was a good way for them to work out each others' issues weighing on their minds, and build a better friends.h.i.+p. It was also her idea to invite Haruka. She put forth a lot of effort into it.

Although they had some unpleasant memories, they all now decided to support each other, and help each other to face the challenges ahead. So it was essential to deepen their trust. After this Pajama Party, apart from trio of Miu, Chikage and Kuzuha, they hoped that Haruka and Listy could quickly blend into the group.

So Ousawa Akatsuki said in a bitter tone:

"My only regret, is that I'm excluded."

He wasn't allowed to partic.i.p.ate in the five girls' late-night party.

Akatsuki was the odd-man out. Miu smiled, and tried to appease Akatsuki's mood.

"I told you, there is no way. Today is girls' night, boys are not allowed to join in, even if it's you."

"But I also want to become better friends."

Akatsuki drank half of the fresh milk and put the bottle on the breakfast table, and then sneaked around behind Miu.

"-- Like this."

Immediately after he finished speaking, Akatsuki grabbed Miu's b.u.t.t.

"Ehhh....!"

At once Miu's body s.h.i.+vered, and she released the gla.s.s in her hand that she had been was.h.i.+ng.

"Oh -- careful."

Akatsuki caught the gla.s.s mid-air using his free right hand.

Akatsuki sighed, as he put the gla.s.s in the sink.

"Try to be a little more careful, okay? You could have been hurt."

"You're the one who made it dangerous!.... It's all your fault!"

"No way, your back is too appealing."

After a short pause, Akatsuki continued to say:

"Seeing the back side of a woman standing in the kitchen, it would have been impolite not to help."

While keeping his left hand on her b.u.t.t, he took out his right hand from the bubbles in the sink and took the opportunity to slide it onto Miu's chest.

His aim was her raw bra-less b.o.o.bs.

And ma.s.saged them.

"Umm, wait a minute -- Ahhh!"

Stuck in Akatsuki's arms, Miu tried to struggle while her sensitive b.r.e.a.s.t.s were being played with. He originally planned to stop right away, but Miu suddenly stopped resisting. She was halfway through with was.h.i.+ng the dishes and her hands were covered in dish soap.

All Miu wanted was to wash her hands, however Akatsuki wouldn't allow her to succeed.

While Akatsuki held Miu, he took a few steps back, making it impossible for her to wash her hands.

Miu reached out her hands as far as they would go only to grab thin air.

"St-stop that ..... Let me wash my hands...... "

Miu looked back at Akatsuki, and said in a sad voice.

So ......

"Eh.....Is that all?"

Akatsuki was slightly dumbfounded.

"I-In this situation ..... is there something else......?"

She wriggled shyly while lowering her red face.

"Since that is all you're concerned about....."

Akatsuki said, then continued his prank.

Then Miu started letting out some lovely reactions. Akatsuki was enjoying the distinct feeling in both his right and left hands that were willfully playing with her b.r.e.a.s.t.s and b.u.t.t.

-- But Akatsuki was somewhat perplexed.

Akatsuki was not trying to comfort her, and certainly not trying to stop her tears.

This was just a simple prank.

So Akatsuki thought that immediately she would have fought back.

.....If you don't resist, how am I going to stop myself?

What is going on? -- Akatsuki couldn't help but wonder.

Normally Miu would have immediately stopped this prank no questions asked, and then washed her hands. Maybe with a spirited fist, an elbow to the kidneys, or a stomp on the foot with her heel.

Also, it would not have been surprising if Miu had taken a bite out of his right hand when Akatsuki reached for her chest.

However, today Miu was somewhat unusual; after finding out she couldn't wash her hands, she just gave in to Akatsuki's prank.

No matter how embarra.s.sing the situation became, she didn't attempt to resist.

--Since the day before yesterday night, Miu started behaving like this.

She was not like her usual self.

I wonder if she ate something bad?

Or,

Does she have a fever?

While ma.s.saging Miu's oversized chest that was spilling out from his hand, Akatsuki focused his thoughts.

Through the tips of his fingers and palms he was trying to feel her body's temperature.

"Hmm, feels pretty normal."

"Ah.....Fuuuu.....Ahhh......Fuu.....Ahhh!"

Even while enjoying her reactions, Akatsuki tilted his head.

Miu's body temperature wasn't too high.

But then again, her sensitivity in this place was still the same as before. If Akatsuki's little prank continued, Miu's body would soon produce "another kind of heat".

.....Since she doesn't have a fever, then the only possibility is.....

The day before yesterday Miu's att.i.tude changed a little, what happened?

While avidly enjoying the feel of her soft and elastic b.o.o.bs, Ousawa Akatsuki started to search his brain for the reason.

--The morning of that day, Akatsuki went with Miu and Listy to the mall to purchase daily necessities.

Because of a conflict with two juvenile delinquents, Miu was depressed and Listy was crying. Akatsuki gently comforted the girls on the monorail.

However it was in his own special way.

Miu and Listy threw him off the monorail between stations.

Ousawa Akatsuki couldn't help but reflect upon his actions. Indeed three was too many, it should be limited to two.

But ......

......Could it be .....?

When that though crossed Akatsuki's mind, he glanced at something out of the corner of his eyes in the kitchen.

There were dishes drying out next to the sink that caught his eye.

The day before yesterday at the mall they bought three earthenware mugs with molds of animal's faces on them.

A wolf for Akatsuki, a cat for Listy, and of course a rabbit for Miu.[1]

However, Miu's rabbit mug was smashed due to the trouble encountered at the mall. Even if they wanted to buy another one there was no way. The store was out of stock and that was the last rabbit mug. So Akatsuki separated himself from Miu and Listy, and persuaded the shop a.s.sistant to give him the contact information for the distributor. Although he had to forcibly purchase it from the warehouse, he bought Miu a brand new rabbit mug.

Akatsuki leaked a wry smile.

When she incidentally found the new rabbit mug on the living room table, Miu's happiness was written all over her face.

Perhaps because of that, Miu has become a little more tolerant of Akatsuki's pranks.

But ......

.....I just wanted to see a happy smile on her face, that was all just to satisfy my own desire.

Well, Miu now looked very pleasing to the eyes, he didn't care so much about the reason.

While countless thoughts popped into his head, Akatsuki unconsciously stopped rubbing Miu's b.r.e.a.s.t.s.

"......?"

The somewhat surprised Miu immediately turned around, and silently looked up at Akatsuki.

Her eyes were cloudy, and had a faraway look in them. After having her b.r.e.a.s.t.s and b.u.t.t continuously attacked, Miu showed a small happy smile. But she did not say anything. Whether to continue or to stop is all up to Akatsuki to decide.

......AH, she is too hard headed.

It is good to be happy about the mug, however enduring this embarra.s.sing act as a repayment for such kindness is going too far.

.....How to let her know?

Of course, he could just tell her, but that means that Miu will have to seriously take heed of his words and not disregard them.

It seemed that action was the only way to teach her.

But who is to say that once Akatsuki stopped this prank she would still feel remorseful, and let these strange never-ending special services continue?

Exactly how to do it? The answer was already clear.

...... If turning back is useless, you can only move forward.

Never forget .....

He valued women feelings as the first priority as a hero -- no, as the Rogue hero.

If he took this a little more seriously, Miu immediately would not be able to endure the shamefulness.

Since Miu didn't want to fight back, he could take this opportunity to end the prank.

Then the original relations.h.i.+p between them will be restored. It is a flawless battle plan, almost too perfect.

Akatsuki gently smiled at Miu.

Then.....

"Ah......"

As Miu's expression appeared on her face, she lost all her strength and fell to the floor.

She probably thought Akatsuki intended to give up.

Akatsuki nodded, while showing a compa.s.sionate smile.

Mischief was restarted.

"Oh -- It's over now..... Ahhh!"

"Over? Stop talking nonsense. Isn't stopping too unfair to your body?'

Akatsuki laughed and caressed Miu intensely.

Wherever his hands touched he used Renkan Keikikou to refine the Kei in her body, creating a wave of pleasure.

"Mmm ～ ～ ～！"

Her b.r.e.a.s.t.s and b.u.t.tocks were already sensitive, and now her whole body received an enhanced powerful stimulation.

An unbounded expansion of pleasure permeated her whole body.

After a few seconds --

"~Tsun ~tsu.....,fu..... "

Miu just managed to remember to breathe, her whole body was limp and she had lost all of her strength.

So Akatsuki from the top down, untied her pajamas' b.u.t.tons one by one.

The first one, then the second one all with his teeth. When he opened the third b.u.t.ton, her perfectly round b.o.o.bs could not wait to cast off their shackles and jump out from the pajamas.

However, there was still one b.u.t.ton holding her b.r.e.a.s.t.s captive.

Under the intense pleasure, Miu's body temperature rapidly rose.

It got so high steam was rising out from her pajamas.

So ......

"Ah, ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh......"

After noticing the state her body was in, Miu could't help blus.h.i.+ng.

In a moment she could see clearly.

The Kei wave made her chest flush, releasing clouds of vapor. It seemed that her insides rapidly reached their boiling point.

Akatsuki still had her increasingly tender b.r.e.a.s.t.s in his hands.

In order to break through Miu's limits, and totally collapse her sense of shame--

Akatsuki was willing to launch a verbal offensive.

"Feeling good enough to smoke? Those truly are some s.l.u.tty b.o.o.bs, eh."

"O-only, it's your fault ...... you made my body get hotter and hotter...... I can not control myself ...... so just ...... ah, ahhh!"

Wave after wave of pleasure made Miu feel extremely ashamed, but it was hard to resist those feelings.

So Akatsuki gradually strengthened the offensive, until the adorable Miu rejected those excuses.

Akatsuki thought she couldn't overcome her inner feeling of shame and would eventually fight back, but she laid there weakly paralyzed in his arms. She had no desire to resist.

So ......

"...... Hmm, it seems this is still not enough, must be necessary for more."

Akatsuki was determined.

Currently Miu just pa.s.sively allowed Akatsuki to manipulate her, but this was not the result he wanted. Now, the intensifying pleasure was only masking Miu's reasoning, and arousing her instinctual desires.

"Ah! You must not... ... if you go any further... ... Ahhh!"

"Do I still have to say it? Of course, this is to punish your s.l.u.tty b.o.o.bs, duh."

Still climbing to the highest peak, Miu trembled. Akatsuki's tone was very firm, and hard-nosed.

"Wait and see, I would like to give you a taste of what lies beyond the limits, and suffer the ultimate pleasure."

And now -- A departure bell sounded.

Leaving was the super express train to the ends of paradise via h.e.l.l, the climax express. The conductor for this train was the Rogue hero.

"Are you ready? Here comes the full course meal -- the infernal ma.s.sage, lick, suck, poke, twist, pinch, and pull!"

Akatsuki was also ready to use the ultimate weapon -- fresh milk ... ...

Suddenly a figure approached --

"Go to h.e.l.l alone you pervert!"

When Miu was late in returning, perhaps Listy got worried and came to look for her.

Listy grabbed a nearby frying pan and hit Akatsuki on the back of his head with all her might -- One full swing.

"Ugh.....careless, I let my guard down."

Listy Sherfied sighed "Whew".

After she made it to the kitchen just in time to stop Akatsuki's disreputable behavior, Listy helped Miu prepare some drinks and snacks. Then they prepared to return to their room on the second floor.

"S-sorry, Listy-san ... ..."

Half way up the stairs, Miu could not help but blush as she turned back to apologize.

Miu evidently heard Listy say "let my guard down" while she was taking to herself.

"Ah, n-not you......I didn't mean to blame you Miu-chan."

Listy quickly shook her head. She wasn't accusing Miu of secretly approaching Akatsuki.

"After all, that big pervert was in the wrong."

She was staring at the back of his head when she said that.

"How can you blame me? The backside of a woman in the kitchen is a man's romantic dream."

After he perceived Listy's less friendly eyes, Akatsuki smiled nonchalantly.

"Tonight......no, from now on when we are in the kitchen you're not allowed in."

Whatever his version of romance was, it was not true romance. The kitchen was for cooking, not flirting ...

Even in their own home they had to watch out for Akatsuki. Listy could not help but sigh, as she walked up the stairs behind Miu.

Miu walked up first holding drinks, while Listy followed holding a wooden tray full of snacks. Naturally they were both taking their time to avoid spilling anything. Then Akatsuki, who was bringing up the rear, suddenly said:

"Hey, Listy what are you wearing.....it looks like my s.h.i.+rt."

With a little sigh he pointed that out.

"The other day, didn't we go and buy you some pajamas? Where are they?

"Umm......"

Oops, he noticed. The awkwardness and embarra.s.sment made Listy's face immediately turn red -- the fact was she liked the pajamas that Akatsuki bought.

Because they were bought just for her and no one else.

Of course, she wore them a few times.

At least that night after going to the mall in the commercial district, Miu and Listy specially wore their new pajamas and staged a fas.h.i.+on show for Akatsuki.

However, wearing his s.h.i.+rts that smelled like him brought Listy an unprecedented sense of security.

For Listy who was raised in Alayzard, this is a strange and unfamiliar world. In her heart she was filled with an indescribable uneasiness. But, when she put on one of his s.h.i.+rts, it was as if Akatsuki was standing beside her, which gave Listy immense courage, allowing her to no longer be afraid of this world.

And today Chikage, Kuzuha, and Haruka had all come to stay at the Ouswa home.

All those girls had a very close relations.h.i.+p with Akatsuki and Miu.

And Listy believed that they all held some degree of feelings towards Akatsuki, considerably friendly. Because of this constraint, the att.i.tude of the trio towards Akatsuki was also inconveniently positive, but she felt that Ousawa Akatsuki was definitely a romantic interest for them.

Even if they didn't want to be Miu and Listy's enemies, they also hoped Akatsuki would view them in a new light. It's not like Listy didn't understand their feelings. After all Listy had experience being rejected by him once, and Miu held the same feelings.

-- She hoped that Miu will be lenient, and leave a little bit of s.p.a.ce in Akatsuki's heart for her.

Listy felt that Chikage was a reliable person that she can depend on in this world, but at the same time she felt a little uneasy about her being a compet.i.tor over Akatsuki.

When Akatsuki returned to their world, Miu developed profound feelings for him no less than Listy's, and in a time frame that was a snap of the fingers compared to the years Listy spent with Akatsuki in Alayzard. Chikage, Kuzuha and Haruka surely had in the same way built a close relations.h.i.+p with Akatsuki.

Listy could not help thinking –- What about their existence was causing her so much fear?

Perhaps looking though their eyes, she saw how her past self was with Akatsuki. Thinking that, Listy could not help but feel unease. This was not the conclusion she wanted.

However, Listy once again didn't have the courage to declare "I like Akatsuki" to them either.

So as a means to tell the girls through concrete actions her feelings for Akatsuki, Listy chose -- to deliberately wear Akatsuki's s.h.i.+rt in front of them.

It is a pathetic story Listy thought.

Her inner anxiety, and lack of self-confidence to not put her courage into words to express her feelings.

Even so, she still desperately insisted on advocating her position.

Her despicable desire to monopolize him. This was not how a dignified Queen should behave, and would put her reputation as Sherfied's "greatest treasure" to shame.

".................."

Listy instinctively stopped on the stairs and looked down at Akatsuki.

"......As long as you're happy, I do not care at all."

Maybe he sensed Listy's embarra.s.sment, Akatsuki seamlessly remarked in pa.s.sing.

"............Really?"

Listy felt the tenderness in his words and she turned back ahead. Then Akatsuki unabashedly laughed:

"Oh, do you not know? A woman wearing nothing underneath but his t-s.h.i.+rt is also a man's romantic dream. And from this angle -- there is a clear picture of your panties."

"-!"

As expected she could never let her guard down. Listy quickly removed one of her hands from the tray that had the snacks on it, trying to cover her b.u.t.t.

"All your romance is perverted nonsense!"

She lifted her right foot and was about to kick backwards at that moment.

But ......

"Wow, that was dangerous."

It would have been easily avoided by Akatsuki.

"Ah... ... Wo wo woooooooooo!"

She lost her balance and wobbled on the stairs.

"-- Careful."

Akatsuki stuck out both his hands to support Listy's body -– All ten of his fingers grabbed Listy's b.u.t.t.

"Eeehhhh! You, you why did you put your hands there!"

"No, this is surly just a reflex......a man's instinct is really scary."

"The really scary thing are the evil thoughts in your head right now!"

Listy was trying to escape from Akatsuki's grasp.

"Hey, don't move around. This is very dangerous."

Akatsuki said so, as he took a few steps forward to right beneath Listy and moved his hands up and down.

"Ah ......"

Listy felt her body float into the air.

He leaned back and used his knee as a fulcrum to lift her up into his arms -- the so-called princess carry.

"You ......! P...put me down!"

Listy instinctively twisted her body bashfully.

"I can't let you down since the staircase is too narrow. The snacks might spill, and that would be bad. So, let me carry you up the stairs. Just make the best of it."

"Umm...... well, okay then."

Listy reluctantly did as he said.

"Listy-san, are you okay?"

Miu stopped ahead of them on the stairs, and anxiously looked back.

"Yeah, I'm fine......it just surprised me, sorry."

A little red in the face Listy nodded.

"Well.....we arrived."

He carried Listy to the second floor, and gently put her down on the floor.

Listy quickly fixed the s.h.i.+rt she was wearing.

"Umm.....Th-Thank you."

"Don't mention it. Hurry back, Izumi and the others are waiting for you."

While saying that Akatsuki opened the door of his room.

"Ah, yes. It's rude to let our guests wait too long."

Miu echoed.

"......I guess it's almost time to conclude things."

Listy muttered. In a very weak voice, that Akatsuki and Miu could barely hear.

"......Listy-san?"

"No, nothing, I'm fine... ... Okay, let's go."

She felt Miu's suspicious glance, and quickly shook her head, exposing a guilty smile.

"Oh...... --- Huh?"

Suddenly, it seemed that Miu had noticed something about her body as she turned around.

To be precise -- about the lower part of her body.

"Eh？ What's the matter, Miu-chan?"

"Umm... ... If I'm wrong, please don't be offended."

Miu looked a little uncomfortable as she responded to Listy cautiously.

"Listy-san, Down there probably......"

"Down there? What's wrong down there?"

Listy, unaware of what happened, looked down at her feet.

"No, umm....I didn't mean that. Down there... ... what are you wearing?"

"...........Eh?"

For a moment she didn't understand what Miu meant.

...... Huh?

And then she finally noticed that her lower body seemed to be exceptionally cool starting from a little while ago. It was exhilarating free, no restraint at all.

So ......

".................."

Listy stood there silently, and slid her hands down Akatsuki's s.h.i.+rt that she was wearing instead of pajamas.

".................."

Her palms slowly moved around, smoothly.

Upon confirming that there was no distinct boundary where the fabric and skin meet --

".................."

An ominous glint was on Listy's face as she jerked her head around.

"Good night! and try not to stay up too late."

Akatsuki said as he was about to enter his room.

He had a bath towel draped over both shoulders, and just a pair of shorts on.

At first glance, there seemed no place to put it.

However in one of the pockets a small piece of pink fabric stuck out. Listy suddenly realized that beyond a doubt, it was when he picked her up for the princess carry -–

But, before Listy could say something, Akatsuki was already in his room.

And "Click" the door was locked.

".................."

".................."

Listy stood there in the hallway speechless. Miu also stood beside her awkwardly silent, not knowing what to say next. They both stood there quietly in the hallway.

".................."

Listy silently walked in front of his room.

After knocking the door twice, she then tried to open the door with no regard for an answer.

"Gachin"[2]

However, the door was locked from the inside. It wouldn't budge.

So ......

"......Umm, Listy-san?"

"...................................................Open the door."

After Listy asked in a low voice, she took a deep breath, and with a power that could break the world record for spirometry:

"You, you perverted freak--! Open the door right now!"

Then she started hitting and pounding on the door. Her face turned red as she shouted herself hoa.r.s.e.

Akatsuki was still unresponsive. Then in an attempt to kick down the door she raised her right leg.

"N-no you can't Listy-san! You will be completely exposed!

Miu yelled aloud in a hurry.

"~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~!"

Without any other options, she bit down on her lower lip, while bitterly glaring at Akatsuki's door.

It was the middle of the night and at the risk of disturbing the neighbors, Listy Sherfied snapped and shouted:

"Just you wait and see! Tomorrow then, when you walk out of your room it will be your reckoning!"

Akatsuki never attempted to open the door, leaving Listy in the hallway sans underwear. She had no choice but to go back to the room where Chikage and the others were waiting.

"Lets go Miu-chan."

"Er, umm......no problem."

Miu nodded with a solemn expression, and cleared throat a few times "Ehem".

"Oh, sorry to keep you waiting ~"

Regaining her composure, Miu spoke while coming inside.

"----------"

Listy followed behind Miu, tightly glued to her back.

Then......

"Oh, welcome back. We waited for you guys."

Chikage said so while greeting them with a smile. She had on a combination of a camisole and frayed hot pants. This was apparently what Chikage wears when she goes to bed.

Next to her Kuzuha had on her pajamas, and Haruka had on her JPN Babel uniform next to her.

"Did something happen just now? I heard a terrible scream."

"I think I heard Ousawa Akatsuki's name -- by any chance did that man do something?"

"No, no, it was nothing....... really it's true."

Miu flailed her hands around as she responded to their questions, trying to attract all of their attention to herself.

"Look, I got you guys some drinks. Everyone must be thirsty, right?"

She put the drinks on the table after saying so.

"-!"

Taking advantage of this chance, Listy casually headed towards her dresser against the wall.

"......"

She pretend as if nothing had happened as she nonchalantly opened her underwear drawer.

After she grabbed a pair of panties she rapidly rolled it into a ball, and pushed the drawer closed.

"-- Oh no, I prepared snacks but I forgot to bring the tray up."

Miu seamlessly created a perfect opportunity for Listy.

So ......

"Oh - that's unfortunate Miu-chan - I can go get it for you - no really - I will do it - I don't mind at all -"

Listy completed the lines they prepared in one breath without stopping for punctuation. Then she immediately left the room.

As soon as the door closed behind her she quickly put on the newly acquired underwear, and sighed after finally being able to relax a little. She then picked up the snack tray they left in the hallway.

......One, two, three ......

To not make it look unnatural she calculated in her mind how much time it would take to go the first floor, and head back to the room -–

"Found it. This is it, right Miu-chan?"

She returned to the room while forcing a natural smile on her face.

"W-wow ... ... Thank you Listy-san."

"Ah, don't mention it."

Miu gave her a somewhat stiff smile. Listy then went to sit between Chikage and her.

.......Whew, I somehow got through it.

She now clearly felt the softness of the fabric around her legs, but around her b.u.t.t she didn't have a similar feeling. She couldn't set aside a lingering feeling as she felt her chest tighten.

"......Huh?"

Chikage remarked. Listy frowned. She noticed Chikage was looking at the hem of Akatsuki's s.h.i.+rt, which she was wearing instead of pajamas, and that her new pair of underwear was partly visible.

.......She has really sharp eyes... ...!

Listy turned pale, a face fit for her hopeless situation.

Although she had barely managed to find the same color panties, Chikage must have noticed the style was different from the ones she wore earlier.

However Chikage,

"Wow......this is delicious. Is this a new item they have at the convenience store?"

Chikage did not mention the change, instead she talked about a entirely different topic.

She definitely noticed -- and was likely to have imagined many things.

Listy was thankful from the bottom of her heart for Chikage's consideration.

So -- in her heart she hoped that these kind of pleasant conversations could go on forever. She thought of how good it would have been if that were possible.

"----"

Listy took a deep breath, and made a serious face.

"...... Please listen to me."

In a quiet......but yet powerful tone she called out to attract everybody's attention.

Waiting until they all focused on her, Listy looked at the three: Chikage, Kuzuha, and Haruka.

And then asked a question.

"A little while ago, I asked you three something and wanted you to think about when I left the room -- Did all three of you come up with an answer yet?"

"The thing you asked......?"

Miu wasn't there and had no idea what Listy was talking about. All she could do was stare blankly at her and ask about it.

Once she perceived the seriousness in the atmosphere, Miu no longer pressed the issue. It also seemed that Listy had no intention of repeating herself.

The three girls faces became very serious.

While silently waiting for their answers, Miu turned her gaze towards the three in question who all had serious expressions on their faces.

"-- Ousawa-san, after you left the room to get the drinks, Listy-san asked us something."

On behalf of the other two girls, Kuzuha explained the situation to Miu.

"After leaving Alayzard and coming to live in this world with you and Ousawa-kun -- Listy-san doesn't want her existence to become a burden to the both of you. In the end she wants to enhance her power, or her being here will become a liability. And--"

Kuzuha paused for a moment.

"If she is only going to be a burden, she won't hesitate to return to Alayzard....."

"H-how could you think of doing that!"

Miu watched as Listy panicked and turn away from her.

"......"

Listy remained silent as she dropped her head down with an unusually serious face. Miu fully understood that this was not a joke.

Ah......could it be that.....

Miu suddenly thought back to the conversation they had in the hallway.

It seemed like Listy muttered something like "time to conclude things" before they returned to the room. At the time she thought she misheard her, but apparently that wasn't the case.

However, Ousawa Miu still didn't understand.

"How could you say such a thing? In the park just the other day, didn't we agree from now on to be together forever? And at that time Listy-san agreed, right?"

"Yes, at the time when Miu-chan said that to me...... to be honest, I was really moved. Akatsuki brought me to this world and you were willing to accept me ..... But--"

Listy looked up.

"Because Akatsuki and Miu-chan are too close to me......you may be biased. So I wanted to hear the objective opinions of these three."

"There was no need to go through the trouble......whether it is Chikage-san, Cla.s.s Rep, or Haruka-san we all hope that you stay!"

Miu couldn't help but raise her voice.

"I thought that's how you'd feel....... emotionally that is, but that's not the answer I want."

Listy showed a lonely smile.

"I don't want a sentimental answer, rather I want everyone to judge if my strength will be any help. In short, when you balance it on a scale -- to which side will it tilt?"

"It's not like --"

Listy didn't have to be concerned about this issue as long as she continued to be near Akatsuki's side. Just like himself -- however, there was not enough time to finish, before Listy cut in.

"I just didn't want to be a burden to everyone."

Listy sighed.

"My coming to this world should have been detected by Babel. If I am unable to explain my presence here, won't it lead to exposing Miu-chan's true ident.i.ty? It won't just be me who will have to pay the price. I fear that not only will Akatsuki and Miu-chan, but the others will also be in danger. In that case, I might as well--"

"It might be better......if you just go back to Alayzard?"

Miu asked the question with a look of blank amazement, Listy nodded as to say "Yes".

"I already know that creating a hole in the dimension is a way to travel between different worlds. Moreover I'm the same as Miu-chan, as in we are both from Alayzard and our very nature points back there. Just like how everyone came to Alayzard in order to prevent war using the same method I alone can go back to Alayzard."

"It is so, but ......!"

Miu understood her feelings of not wanting to trouble Akatsuki.

And in theory, it won't be impossible for her to go back to Alayzard alone.

But ......

"I'm not going to promise......to let Listy-san return to Alayzard alone."

Ousawa Miu was adamant, and was not going to compromise.

On that day, when the both of them went downtown shopping with Akatsuki, on their way back they stopped off at a park and Listy cried. She snuggled up to Miu's chest, her shoulders were trembling and tears were streaming down her cheeks.

At that time, I said something to Listy.

It was something like, "There is nothing to worry about, because that person is with us -- you will never have to leave".

That's right, I'm certain I said that.

That wasn't said just because it was a spur of the moment kind of thing, absolutely not. Those words were in no way half-hearted.

So......

"......What does everyone else think......?"

Miu looked at Chikage, Kuzuha, and Haruka. The trust in them could be seen in her eyes.

Even if they thought Listy would only become a burden to everyone –-

She would never leave her.

The first of the three to change her expression was Chikage. Her serious look transformed into a relaxed smile.

"Listy-san, because you asked us so seriously.......and to not be rude, we each considered it seriously for a long time. And then we also exchanged our views with each other, but --"

She paused for a moment.

"-- I'm sorry."

"......"

When she heard Chikage say that, Listy bowed in silence.

"How can......"

It was unbelievable what she just heard. Miu let out a heartbreaking voice.

It was at that time --

...... Ah ......

A small hand grabbed Miu's palms. The small hand didn't come from Listy who was next to her -- but from the person sitting opposite of her, Kuzuha. Looking up, Kuzuha gave her a quiet smile. And the warmth that pa.s.sed through her hand told her --there was nothing to worry about.

Miu decided to remain silent and leave this matter to her trusted friends.

So ......

"-- Yes, I'm quite sorry."

Haruka said with a stiff face.

"That I worried Listy-san so much, I was waiting until it was all over before telling you..... when we got back Ousawa Akatsuki came to me so we could decide together how to report your presence to Babel. This was my fault."

"I, I didn't mean ... ... I was just afraid that everyone was over straining themselves for me."

Listy was somewhat fl.u.s.tered as she tried to refute Haruka's opinion.

"There's no difference, you felt uneasy and thought you were causing us all trouble. I was one who made you feel that way. It was all because of my incompetence you were so distressed."

"No, you can't say that. The problem was all because of me in the first place."

"If you say that, then isn't it Akatsuki's fault since he brought Miu to this world to begin with? No, it's better to blame Akatsuki for being summoned to Alayzard?"

"Ousawa-kun was born into this world, maybe that itself was the mistake."

"Haha, you're right.......that really was the biggest problem."

Kuzuha's malicious teasing amused Chikage enough to laugh.

"Hey -- Listy-san, do you think the root cause of all the trouble is because you and Miu met Akatsuki? or is the root cause his very existence?

"I, I......"

Confronted with Chikage inquiry, Listy was confused and looked at Miu.

It was not like she didn't want to express her thoughts, it was just that she didn't want to take responsibility in the matter.

Chikage shed her wry smile for a serious one.

"You know Listy-san ......everyone here has helped or burden someone else in some shape or way -- that is, the pluses and minuses on the scales vary depending on each situation. We might be able to help Akatsuki and Miu sometimes, and other times we might become a burden to them. The anxiety that you're feeling doesn't just belong to Listy-san alone. We also feel the same way. Even so, we still want to stay together with each other, contributing as much as possible to Akatsuki and to Miu. We will do whatever we can. I believe Listy-san basically has the same idea ... ... Or am I thinking too much?"

"......No."

Listy shook her head, Chikage suddenly showed a satisfied smile, "that was easy".

"I thought that's how it was. Say, Listy-san in your view you considered yourself a burden and wanted everyone to abandon you. If that's the case then if someone else ever becomes a burden should we abandon them once again? I don't think that's right. Although, under certain circ.u.mstances I think it is a necessary evil to cut ties --"

Chikage face was very serious.

"-- However, for Listy-san to completely cut ties on behalf of Miu so she can have a place in this world, and to a.s.sist Akatsuki in his ideals. I'm afraid that we need to make the whole world our enemy. This is going to be a daunting task, and will take enormous resolution and awareness. I believe that it is possible for Akatsuki, since I have decide to fight alongside him. For that, absolute trust is necessary."

"Yes......I think so too."

Haruka also nodded and:

"If I continue to stay in Student Council, then I should be able to safely obtain various pieces of useful information. However, this practice of being a double agent really would be impossible with my personality and I feel that I owe the student council more than that. When that time comes I can't guarantee that I won't become a burden to everyone --"

After a short pause ......

"So tomorrow, I have decided to turn in my resignation -- to resolve any doubts in my mind. With that, I will no longer be able to gather information from the Student Council. Admittedly my action is will be detrimental to us, however now I can fight side by side with everyone without any misgivings. I'm sure that I can become a big addition to the team."

"In fact.....you also don't have to worry so much, we figured you would do that."

Kuzuha continued.

"Listy-san is our friend and we want you to stay here with us..... It's that simple. After all, you want to stay with us even if that means becoming an enemy of the entire world, if you can't cherish a person like that than who? Those are the kind of people I want to be friends with, and fight shoulder to shoulder with. This should be a very natural way of thinking."

Then, she turned to look at an empty s.p.a.ce, as if remembering a past memory.

"--Ousawa-kun once said 'When a woman wants to cry but is not able to cry, the world is simply wrong'. By the same token, we would find it impossible to smile, if Ousawa-kun and Listy-san cannot smile from the bottom of their hearts in this world. Something must have gone wrong. If Listy-san ends up deciding to return to Alayzard it will undoubtedly take away everyone's smile."

Wasn't that it?

"Because we can't forget the sacrifices Listy-san made for us......"

"But, if......"

"Listy-san intends to temporarily return to Alayzard until Akatsuki and Miu in solve their problems in this world, and then come back?"

Listy tried to rebut Kuzuha's claim, but Chikage saw through her thinking first.

"That certainly might be a way, but so is Listy-san staying with us to support Akatsuki and Miu even if only a little. If we become discouraged or likely to give up, we should all encourage each other, and forge ahead together through any future challenges. Don't you want to do that also?

Chikage continued with a calm smile.

"Listy-san wants us to put emotion aside for the time being, in fact we are eager to confirm your feelings, and not just for Akatsuki's sake. We must know if we are willing to put our lives on the line for each other. I at least can't always hide under Akatsuki's protective umbrella. If Listy-san wishes to stay, and if one of us has a crisis, surely together we can help to alleviate the burden on Akatsuki. There is the possibility of extra points for all of us."

".......I should stay? Is that really okay?"

Listy said with a disbelieving tone.

"I can't think of anything better. Even if Listy-san went back to Alayzard, Ousawa-kun would soon bring you back again. Even if he needs to use unscrupulous means, he won't hesitate."

Kuzuha shrugged.

"Once he decides to do something, no one can change his mind. Listy-san......you should also know his personality, right?"

She said while smiling wryly because:

"I believe this is also the reason why you can't help but fall in love with Ousawa-kun."

".......uh, yeah......!"

Listy nodded while exposing a face that went from crying to smiling.

Upon seeing how fast things got off track, Chikage let out a long sigh.

"-- Ah. Umm, this is our conclusion. What do you think, Miu?"

She responded with a gentle smile.

So ......

"Yeah, thank you ......you guys really are good people."

Miu thanked all three of them from the bottom of her heart.

Then she turned around to Listy sitting next to her, and gently hugged her.

"Miu-chan.....?"

Listy was taken aback.

"I'd like to say it again... ... No, I'll say it a few times, it doesn't matter."

Ousawa Miu's tone was serious.

"Everything will be all right for Listy-san and myself. The same for Chikage-san, Cla.s.s Rep, Haruka-san -- also that person, because we are all together."

See?

"No matter when, no matter where, we will always be together."

"...... Ah, yes ......together forever ...... sorry ...... I'm sorry ......"

Miu embraced her tighter while gently patting her back. Listy returned the hug.

"Sniff, don't cry so much Listy-san, otherwise --"

Her statement was interrupted by a sudden knock on the door.

"...... Huh?"

They were all surprised.

"Ohhh... ... sorry, didn't mean to interrupt."

Akatsuki's voice came through the door.

Miu and the others instinctively looked at each other.

"Uh, is something the matter.....?"

Miu responded on behalf of the others, wanting him to answer from outside the room.

"Ah, it's probably just me being paranoid.....but I feel like someone is crying."

It was just as Miu imagined -– strictly speaking, this should not have come as a surprise.

"-!"

Everyone in the room unintentionally laughed very loudly.

Even Listy who had tears until just a second ago was no exception.

...... Ah.

This was exactly why everyone liked Akatsuki.

Ousawa Miu thought, at this moment, we all are together.

'You're laughing too much, you guys......or is it just my misconception after all?'

Akatsuki said "good night" and was about to leave:

"Not at all......thank you for worrying."

While Miu gently wiped away the tears in the corner of her eyes with a smile, they all spoke at the same time:

"...... Good night."

Miu raised her voice.

At the same time, she added in her heart -- I love you.

Akatsuki's appearance caused them to break out into laughter.

It was a a while before they were able to change to other topics.

The heavy atmosphere a little while ago disappeared without a trace. The small room was now br.i.m.m.i.n.g with a bright and festive atmosphere.

"Hehe......that was really funny."

At the same time Miu said so she pulled on the neckline of her pajamas, gently fanning herself.

Maybe she got a little too excited and laughed too much, since Miu's body felt hot like she was in an oven. However, it seemed excessive for her body temperature to be this high from just that.

Moreover.

...... Strange ...... Why does it feel as though I'm floating......?

The excitement must be from all these uplifting feelings.

"Hey......this smell is....?"

Suddenly, a sweet fragrance filled the room.

The phytoncide aroma of flowers settled in the air, which had an exceptionally calming effect on the mind.

"Oh, I brought a small bottle of essential oils over today, its aroma is good for relaxation.

Chikage uncovered the mystery behind the aroma.

"They sell this all over the special autonomous region to help with stress. After all, there are a lot of people who found it painful being summoned to a different world. Furthermore when they get back they are forced to live on the artificial island just adding to their stress. There are so many goodies I obtained for relaxation and stress, some of which also have added magical effects. This too is one of them."

"So ......"

Miu took a deep breath, to enjoy the sweet smell.

It was a delightful aroma, but .....

.......it feels like it's getting hotter fast......ah.

Miu untied her pajamas' first and second b.u.t.tons to let the cool air in, then fanned her chest with the slack, pulling it back and forth.

The air came in contact with her flushed body.

Rather than a feeling like a cooling breeze, it was more like a pleasant tickle.

When Miu looked up, she suddenly noticed that Listy, Kuzuha, and Haruka were all similarly cooling themselves off with their hands or the hems of their pajamas. Out of everyone, Haruka's attire gave the impression that she would be the most uncomfortable.

"Umm Haruka-san, did you not bring pajamas?"

Miu couldn't resist asking her.

"Yes...... but it shouldn't be a problem."

Haruka answered.

"Oh......this might be a good idea."

As she said that, she lifted up her hand with the AD.

Then -- the particles of light changed her uniform into a pair of light pastel colored pajamas.

"Eh? Amazing......how did you do that?"

That was the first time Listy saw an AD transform like that, and she was unable to hide her inner curiosity.

"This is the newly designed school uniform woven from telepathic stone fibers. It functions similarly to our ADs, which can materialize our weapons, since they are made out of the same material. Before I was able to transform my uniform or gym clothes to my combat clothes but...... "

Haruka was explaining the technology of this world.

"Depending on the user's personality traits the AD automatically changes into the most appropriate weapon for the user. By applying this function to the uniforms it now is possible to changed into a wide variety of clothing to suit the time and place......"

"Oh...... It sounds fairly convenient."

Chikage said.

"If I remember correctly, at the end of spring break it will be time for the new term to start. So we should get them then?"

"That is the schedule. However, today I have brought everyone's new uniforms and ADs. Do you want to try it out?"

"I appreciate the thought, but......"

Kuzuha had a somewhat complicated expression.

"I was skipped ahead. The uniforms have to be custom-made for my size......I wonder if it will be all right."

"That's not a problem either."

Haruka smiled.

"Just a moment ago I explained how the new uniform automatically changes to the user's individual characteristics. Of course that also includes size. Probably the only drawback is its durability. Every time you change the telepathic stone fibers wear down."

While saying that Haruka took out the sets of the uniforms and ADs from her knapsack.

"Wow, Thank you Haruka-san ...... "

Next to her Miu received the uniform and AD, then said her thanks.

"Eh.....there's one for me?"

Listy responded with rounded eyes, showing her surprise.

"Yes. It is only natural...... since from now on, you are going to be a fellow companion."

Haruka said with a smile.

"As soon as the admission formalities are completed you are going to be a student the same as us. You just have to wait a little bit before the start of the new term, so please be patient about it."

"Thank you......I am really so happy."

Happy from the bottom of her heart, Listy tightly hugged the uniform handed to her.

"After that, all I have to do is hand Ousawa Akatsuki his uniform. Because of a special exception, he was already given his new model of AD. Can you give him the uniform tomorrow?"

"Not a problem.....Thank you Haruka-san."

Miu took Akatsuki's uniform and put it on top of her dresser in the closet along with hers.

"That......"

When she went to ask if she should put hers away along with the other two, the look in Listy's eyes told her 'don't'! However Listy refused with a gentle smile as she shook her head. Apparently she was very happy to get a uniform, and it seemed like she wanted to embrace it for a while longer.

So Miu consented with a nod, and returned to where she was sitting.

Haruka's pajamas problems were resolved.

As for the remaining problem --

....... Why is it so hot ......?

Miu simply pulled on the collar of her pajamas, "Patapa" as she vigorously fanned.

Then......

"Ah, after coming here today I've been curious....."

Kuzuha stared straight at Miu.

"Ousawa-san has your chest... ... gotten bigger?"

"Ugh......"

When Miu heard what was said, her hands stopped fanning her chest.

"H-has it? Must just be your imagination, hahaha."

In spite of herself she let out a dry laugh.

"Is it? --Let me see."

Chikage immediately circled behind Miu's back, and with both hands she ma.s.saged Miu's b.r.e.a.s.t.s.

"Ah ... ...Ch-Chikage-san don't do that!"

Miu instinctively protested.

"Whoa, they really did get bigger......! Considerably larger!"

Chikage said while her hands continued to rub Miu's chest back and forth.

"Compared to when we were in Alayzard the size is completely different than what it was at the hot springs we went to bathe for at least most of the time. You almost can't hold them in your hand anymore. This is called an "unruly" or "uncontrollable" chest."

"S-such praise doesn't make me happy....."

Miu squirmed, trying to break free from Chikage's grasp.

Then Chikage said with a laugh:

"However on the other hand.....it seems it's not just Miu's body that changed.

"W-what does that mean?"

Haruka found Chikage's malicious gaze directed at herself, she suddenly shrank back while blus.h.i.+ng.

"The vice-president loves to crack jokes...... you know what I mean."

"Ah, yeah. While in Alayzard the size of my chest did increase a little, and there have been changes in my body's curves......."

Chikage's could resist teasing, but Haruka had honestly confessed to her own changes.

"Yes indeed... ... But then again, I'm not just talking about you two."

Chikage paused for a moment.

"Not to be outdone by both of you, but Cla.s.s Rep and I have also had changes in our figures. Like the vice-president have become more feminine than I was. As for Cla.s.s Rep, well it seems that all of us are not quite the same ....."

After seeing all of them sizing up her bodies. Chikage with a mischievous smile watched Kuzuha doing the same beside her.

"Eh, really?"

"......"

Miu involuntarily spoke, causing Kuzuha to fall silent and become disappointed in the thought. It was just as Chikage said, but she does not want to admit though.

Going by Kuzuha's reaction, Miu thought that perhaps she put on a little weight and should apologize.

"No, Cla.s.s Rep is fine....... Actually I didn't even notice the changes in your body, so you don't need to worry about it."

Miu was trying to comfort her,but it never occurred to her it would have the opposite effect.

"You did not notice at all ...? There is no need to worry ...?"

Along with surprisingly low voice she never heard from her, Kuzuha stared at Miu with murderous intent in her eyes.

"......!"

"Umm...... Cl-Cla.s.s Rep......?"

Miu timidly asked Kuzuha, who was quietly mumbling to herself with her head down.

Have I inadvertently stepped on a landmine of Kuzuha's?

Then, Kuzuha suddenly looked up and:

"I shrunk! Compared to last year's body measurement I'm even shorter!"

"Oh, is that so ......but there is no need to worry."

Listy tried to comfort Kuzuha.

"With height, there is a certain error margin based on your physical condition for that day."

"...... Five centimeters."

"......What?"

"I shrunk five centimeters. It is completely outside the range of any error margin!"

"Umm, that....."

Feeling the awkwardness Miu's line of sight began to waver.

There was no way that a five centimeter difference could be called an error.

The reason why she failed to notice was probably because they they saw each other every day, and the change was a little bit at a time.

......What do I do?

She couldn't find the words to comfort her. However then, Miu had a flash of inspiration.

"No, it's still fine Cla.s.s Rep since it's only five centimeters.......because."

She took a breath.

"After I came to this world my bust has increased about ten centimeters!"

"............"

".....Huh?"

She looked back as for some reason Kuzuha fell to the floor.

When Miu caught sight of Kuzuha she could almost see a 'Boom' sound effect left behind. To her side Listy wasn't much better.

"...... Ten centimeters.&qu