«Looks like you two had quite the fun time, didn't you?»

After we emerged from our long bath, it was Seihō waiting for us outside, standing like a statue with his arms crossed.

"I-I'm sorry..."

To put it another way, crashing at someone’s house and engaging in sexual acts with your partner in their bath… even by my own standards, that was incredibly lacking in common sense.

It was only natural that Seihō would be upset.

«I told everyone that you were in the middle of a discussion about Isogano Sōsuke’s party during your bath time. Since I asked for further cooperation, I said there was no need to discuss anything else regarding that matter, so they should understand.»

So, Seihō had explained it that way to her companions and managed to get them to accept the situation.

Some people know that I’m seeing multiple women, and while those who don’t know might be speculating about various things, the impression one gets from being consumed by lust is quite different from having a necessary conversation.

I was beyond grateful for Seihō’s consideration. «Hm.

Thanks for the excuse.»

«…You’re welcome. Honestly, you all got your skin so shiny and smooth after that bath…»

Shoyo, Fukuhō, Luminas-sensei, and Genchū flushed bright red and hung their heads in embarrassment.

Senju remained expressionless, Serina looked perfectly calm, Shiin and Roa smiled softly, and Junme started laughing heartily.

By the way, things did not progress to any such acts with Genchū.

It wasn't as if I was being excluded; it seemed like a considerate decision made after ensuring I was mentally prepared, so that things could proceed one-on-one.

The somewhat forceful accompaniment to the bath also appeared to stem from a similar kind of consideration, given that if left alone, things likely wouldn't progress any further for the time being.

At first, Gensoku often closed her eyes or acted reserved, but by the end, she seemed to have snapped out of it and was gawking openly.

I find myself on edge about how my future with her will unfold.

"Have the others already gone to bed?"

"Yes. Many girls wanted to talk to you, but I convinced them that we should save it for another opportunity."

Having so many girls eager to talk to me was something unimaginable in my life before the transfer.

My abilities undoubtedly play a role, but I need to stop being so self-deprecating about thinking that's all they're interested in.

As Inukai, who possesses the 'Tame' ability, pointed out, I have to acknowledge my own track record to some degree; otherwise, it stops being humility and starts sounding like insincere flattery.

"That harem of yours knows no bounds."

At Chiiru's remark, a few members let their jealousy show.

"There must be some intent in that harem of yours to strengthen the party's unity as well? My party is firmly under my control, so there's no absolute necessity for me to overlap physically with Sou Sukezono... But still, yes. Girls who desire it, even without such a need, will surely appear."

With Seihō's remark, the undercurrent of jealousy among them intensified.

"W-wait, why did you wait for us?"

"What are you talking about? I'm the leader, so I need to hear the outcome of your 'discussion,' don't I?"

He had a point.

Even if it was just a pretext, their cover story within the party was that they had stayed in the bath longer than usual to consult with each other.

"I understand that. But what exactly is this 'deeper cooperation' Seihō-san explained to her companions? She hasn't shared the true objective with everyone yet, has she?"

Deep Law, having recovered from her shame, asked the question.

Her query was entirely reasonable.

"Yes. Considering the future, I'm worried about the security of our base, so I definitely need to borrow Mumenose Rina's 'Barrier Ability.' But aren't there constraints regarding distance and number? So I thought—what if we remain as separate parties but place our bases adjacent to each other?"

Several members reacted with a sudden jolt at that proposal.

"…So you want my base and their base to be next door, so I can cover both with a single barrier?"

Rina, who had made a similar suggestion before they joined the party, seemed to grasp it immediately.

"Exactly."

"That is... as a teacher, I feel relieved..."

Master Luminous, whose intoxication was also beginning to wear off, murmured softly.

"Mm. It's not bad, though. I'll be able to see Sou-chan right away."

"No, no, it's not that simple. Living together within a single barrier... there are bound to be various difficulties involved, wouldn't you agree?"

"Hmm. Relying on your power so casually, demanding the same treatment without contributing anything, feeling jealousy toward us. When you live together, friction inevitably arises."

Runa's opinion was countered by Shiune and Chiyu.

I knew they were speaking out of concern for me.

Seihou wore a faintly pleased expression.

"Those concerns are valid, but today we have secured the negotiating leverage needed to resolve the issues."

"……'Plant Magic,' you say?"

It was the new ability acquired by Nagahata, a gentle girl with an atmosphere distinct from Roa's.

"That's right. Honestly, just being able to provide a stable supply of rice should be a considerable help to your side, shouldn't it?"

"Ugh……"

Shiune groaned in response.

At this point, I would not claim that we were the ones who provided the first grain of rice.

If they could mass-produce it, it was indeed more than sufficient trade material; settling scores would be an understatement.

Moreover, the remarkable aspect of Nagahata's ability was that it was not limited to rice.

For as long as the bonus area continues, we can bring back any plants that aren't placed and hand them to her to replicate them infinitely.

Essentially, the food problem is solved.

Moreover, knowing the abilities of the agents in Sumikaze Party has revealed just how useful they truly are.

Their combat strength is undeniable, and Momo's [Clone Ability] along with Inui's [Tame Ability] will be invaluable for reconnaissance and exploration.

With Sumikaze around, I shouldn't have much trouble leading the group or ensuring I'm not just treated as a convenient tool. With her innate charisma bolstered by the [Charisma] ability she gained and subsequently strengthened as a reward from this event, it should be effortless.

"I get wanting to live next door just in case of an emergency. But even so, we'll set up two barriers. Only you and a handful of authorized people can cross from their side to ours.

On those terms, I'm on board," Terina proposes a compromise.

I see. Even if there are two barriers, living immediately adjacent means the distance restriction doesn't apply.

And since they are separate barriers, it prevents anyone from peeking inside.

For instance, no one would get to see this large house, the solar panels, the electrical appliances, our abundant supplies, Shiomi's cooking, or the lighting provided by Master Lumines' magic.

We might not even need to hide any of that deliberately, but it's a good thing we don't end up flaunting it.

"That's a brilliant plan. If anyone wants to visit Saburo Kuno's base, they can do so once they've proven themselves capable enough. And if you're willing, please feel free to drop by our base as well."

If members from both groups come and go, it allows even those who can't access the adjacent base to interact with them.

"Hm. It seems like we can control the harem expansion to a certain extent. Great idea.

Eventually, coming over here will be referred to as 'entering the harem.' Am I a king or what?"

No, well, Chiya and Roa do call him "King of the Island" or "Ruler of the Island" though...

"I see. To ensure everyone properly understands my master's greatness, this kind of measure may indeed be necessary."

Roa seemed to have accepted the idea.

"If that's how it is, I'm fine with it." "Yeah. I don't mind either."

"Mr. Teacher, being able to stay closer to more of the students? I'm in full support."

"I don't really get it, but if this means I can spend time with everyone here too, then okay!"

"I'm for it too. I know everyone here is amazing, but I was still worried."

"If everyone else is happy with it, then I agree as well..."

Shion, Shinhou, Mr. Luminas, Junna, Moyoko, and Genchu seemed to be on board with the plan too.

And then, everyone turned their gaze toward me.

It seemed they were leaving the final judgment up to me, as the leader.

I gave a single nod before flashing a smile at Seihou.

「That's what it sounds like, then.

So, take care of me, Sumuhou.' Sumuhou offered a brief smile.

'Yes, you too.'

With that, we were able to properly wrap up even the formalities-only side of the discussion.

"—By the way, it's about time you got some sleep, okay? If you get forcibly pulled into a dream, everyone will end up waking up on the ground."

"Ah"

It seems we had stayed in the bath for quite a long while.

Instead of using our usual home, I generated and placed a single-story house large enough to accommodate everyone.

Bedding was already set up inside, so all that remained was to go to bed.

"Um, just in case, I'll sleep in the separate hut."

As I started heading toward the hut I had placed before our bath, Chiiu tightly grabbed my hand.

"Sou-chan, that won't do."

"That's right, Sou-ke. Some charismatic JK is going to eat you up."

"Oh, Dream World Erina? Who on earth are you talking about?"

"It can only be you."

There wasn't even time for a back-and-forth, so I indulged in everyone's kindness and decided to sleep in the same building.

I stowed the hut I had placed into my 'Inventory'.

"Then, goodnight."

Seihou, too, obediently made her way back to her own hut.

"Mr. Luminas was on duty today, right? It's okay if we just shift it by a day?"

Yurina said.

They were talking about the night shift.

Mr. Luminas turned beet red.

But he didn't remain silent; instead, he gave a meek "…Yes," nodding in agreement.

Needless to say, my heart skipped a beat.

And so, the twelve days of upheaval finally came to an end.

Upon checking, it seems I've missed six update cycles (every five days).

I plan to slowly catch up on them.

Yesterday's update was on February 14th, and today's is February 19th.

The next regular update is scheduled for March 16th.

I plan to post a make-up chapter on March 17th.

Thank you for your continued support!

To Our Readers:

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"If it feels like the night with Luminous is ending," "I'm curious about what comes next!" and you're thinking "Write it!!!!",

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「You seemed to have a lot of fun, huh?」

When we got out of the long bath, there was Shoukou, standing like a statue with his arms crossed. 「S-sorry...」

If you put it this way, that we were in someone else's house and indulging in sexual activities with our lovers in the bath, it was completely unreasonable.

It was understandable that Shoukou was upset.

「I told everyone that the party of Kouya Souzoku was having a discussion in the bath, and since I asked for their cooperation, they thought it was necessary to talk about it.」

Shoukou had explained it to his friends in that way and somehow convinced them.

There were people who knew that I was dating multiple girls, and even those who didn't might have guessed something, but the impression of being lost in lust and having a necessary discussion were different.

I could only be grateful for Shoukou's consideration. 「Mm. Misleading gratitude.」

「...You're welcome. Everyone's skin is all shiny.」

Shouko, Shinpo, Lumina-sensei, and Genju were blushing and looking down.

Chiyu was expressionless, Serina was calm, Shion and Roa were smiling, and Junma was laughing.

By the way, Genju and I didn't get that far.

This isn't about being left out; it seems to be a consideration to do it one-on-one after the person is mentally prepared.

She had been invited to join me in the bath rather forcefully, out of concern that if left alone, things might not progress.

At first, she would often close her eyes or be shy, but eventually she seemed to get over it and would stare openly.

I'm nervous about how things will go with her in the future.

"Have the others gone to sleep already?"

"Yes. There were many girls who wanted to talk to you, but I convinced them that there would be another opportunity."

It was hard to imagine that so many girls wanted to talk to me, considering my life before the transfer.

The influence of my abilities is definitely a factor, but I won't let it make me feel inferior.

Shikusa also told me that if I don't acknowledge my achievements, it's not modesty but rather a backhanded compliment.

"Sōkun's harem is unstoppable."

A few people showed signs of jealousy at Senyuu's comment.

"Your harem is also meant to strengthen the party's unity, right? My party is under my control, so there's no need for me to physically be with Kono Sōsuke... but, yes. Even if it's not necessary, there will be girls who wish for it."

The jealousy in Shouka's words grew stronger.

"Wh-Why did you wait for us, Shouka?"

"What are you talking about? I'm the leader, so I had to hear the results of your 'discussion,' didn't I?" That's true.

Technically, we took a long bath to discuss things within the party.

"I understand that, but what exactly is the 'greater cooperation' that you explained to your teammates? You haven't shared the true purpose with everyone, have you?"

Shouka asked, her embarrassment having faded. Her question was valid.

"Well, yes. Considering the future, I'm worried about the base's defenses, and I really need to borrow the power of Yurine's 'Barrier Ability.' But there are distance and number limitations, right? So I thought, what if we kept our parties separate but put our bases next to each other?"

Some people reacted sharply to the suggestion.

"…So you want to put our base next to yours and cover both with my one barrier?"

Yurine, who had made a similar proposal before becoming teammates, seemed to understand immediately. "That's right."

"That's… reassuring, but…"

Luminas, who seemed to be sobering up, murmured quietly.

「Hmm. You'll be able to see Ao-chan soon too, isn't that great?」

「No, it's not that simple. Living together in the same barrier has its difficulties.」

「Yeah. Relying too easily on Sou-kun's strength, not working and demanding the same treatment, or being jealous of us. Living together will create friction.」

Shion and Chiyu argue against Rumi's opinion.

They must be worried about me.

Jouka had a pleased look on her face.

「Those are valid concerns, but we have a negotiating point today.」 「...Plant magic?」

This is the power that the laid-back girl, Nagahata, has obtained.

「That's right. Honestly, just being able to provide a stable supply of rice would be quite helpful for you.」 「Ugh...」 Shion groaned.

I won't mention that I was the one who provided the first grain of rice.

If they can produce in large quantities, it's not just a fair trade, but a very good one.

Moreover, the amazing thing about Nagahata's power is that it's not limited to rice.

From now on, as long as the bonus area continues, I can infinitely increase the number of plants by bringing back those that haven't been placed and handing them over to her.

In essence, the food problem has been solved.

Moreover, it was because I knew the power of the party members of Seiou that I came to know the usefulness of their abilities.

Their combat capabilities are also excellent, and Momo's "Cloning Ability" and Inugai's "Tame Ability" will be very useful for reconnaissance and exploration.

Seiou should be able to lead her team without being treated as just a convenient feature. With her natural charm and the power of "Charisma," which she has obtained and enhanced through this event reward.

"I understand why you'd want to live next to each other as a precaution. But in that case, you should make two barriers. Only you and a few people with permission can come from that side to this side. If that's the case, I'll agree to it." Seina proposes a compromise.

Indeed, even if you make two barriers, if you're right next to each other, there's no distance constraint.

And yet, since it's a different barrier, you can't peek inside it.

For example, you can't see this large house, the solar panels, the electrical appliances, the abundant supplies, Shion's cooking, or Lumina-sensei's magical lighting.

You might not even need to hide anything, but it's better if you don't show off.

"That's a great idea. If you want to come play at Koino's base, you'll have to work hard enough to be allowed. If you like, you're welcome to visit our base as well."

If the members of each other's teams can go back and forth, even those who can't go to the neighboring base can have an exchange.

"Hmm. It seems I can control the expansion of my harem to some extent, a great idea. Eventually, coming here will be called 'entering the harem.'" Am I the king?

No, Chiyou and Roa call me the island's king or lord...

"That's right. To properly understand your greatness, such measures may be necessary."

Roas seems to have understood.

"I think that's fine too." "Yes, I don't have a problem with it."

"I'm all for it if it means being closer to more students."

"I don't really get it, but if it means spending time with everyone here, okay!"

"I agree too. I got that everyone here is amazing, but I was still worried."

"If everyone's okay with it, I'm fine with it too..."

Shion, Shinpo, Lumina, Junna, Shouko, and Genju seem to have agreed as well. And everyone looks at me.

The final decision is left to me, the leader.

I nod once and smile at Sumihou.

「That's what they say. Well, I'll leave it to you, Sumou.」 Sumou smiles. 「Yeah, I will.」

So, we were able to properly conclude the formal discussion as well.

「――By the way, you should probably go to sleep soon. If you're called to a dream, everyone will wake up on the ground.」 「Ah.」

It seems we had a very long bath.

Instead of our usual house, we generated and placed a single-story building that can accommodate everyone.

The bedding is already set up, so all we have to do is sleep.

「Um, I'll sleep in a different cabin.」

As I was heading towards the cabin I had set up before bathing, Senyuu grabbed my hand. 「Sousuke, that's not good.」

「That's right, Sousuke. You'll get eaten by some charismatic J.K. somewhere.」

「Oh, the Dream World Sei? Who are you talking about?」 「Isn't it obvious?」

There's no time to waste arguing, so I'll take everyone's kindness and sleep in the same building.

I'll store the cabin I set up in my 'Inventory'. 「Good night.」

She also went back to her own hut without any complaints.

“Is it okay if I skip my turn as Lumina-sensei today?” Serina asked. We were talking about the night shift.

Lumina-sensei’s face turned bright red.

But she didn’t remain silent and simply nodded, saying, “...Yes.”

Needless to say, my heart skipped a beat.

And so, the twelfth day of turmoil finally came to an end.

Checking the schedule, it seems like I skipped six updates, every five days.

I’ll try to catch up slowly but surely.

Yesterday’s update was for February 14th, and today’s is for February 19th.

The next update will be on March 16th as usual.

I plan to make up for the missed updates on March 17th.

Please continue to look forward to it!

-------A Request to Our Readers------- If you feel like reading this book has made you say "I want to read more about the night with Lumina," "I'm curious about what happens next!" "Write more!!!!" please do the following:

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