1417/Dance Romance Revolution

Dance Romance Revolution
Date of Scene:	25 April 2016
Location:	Uminari City - Hotel Augusta
Synopsis:	It's Homura and Madoka's three month anniversary, which has important implications given certain motherly advice. The two go out to the Hotel Augusta for a date to celebrate and exchange gifts, have long conversations and dance with plenty of romance throughout.
Cast of Characters:	Madoka Kaname, Homura Akemi

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Madoka Kaname has posed:
    It's Monday evening and all other plans have been pushed aside. It's now been three months since Madoka and Homura started dating, which while a nice milestone on it's own has special significance for Madoka personally, because her mother Junko has always said that couples that make it that long tend to last for at least a year. True it was in regards to adults dating rather than school aged girls, but these two in particular are more than your average student with an abundance of experiences no average person would have to deal with at their age. Not only that but they share a special bond and insight into one another that very few people alive could claim to, having spent time literally within each other's minds and spirits.

    All of that means Madoka is extra sure the motherly advice applies to her current relationship, which makes tonight an important anniversary. She's asked her mothers help in getting ready as well, both in picking out the perfect outfit and with styling her hair and putting on makeup. When she arrives at the front of the Hotel Augusta she might be hard to spot at first, because her parents have driven her. They offer words of encouragement to have a good night as she opens the door and steps out, blushing faintly. She goes to the front passanger window and takes a small box from her father, leaning in to kiss him on the cheek afterwards.

    As she walks off towards the entrance Junko can be heard calling, "Stay out as late as you like. And remember, have fun!" Madoka giggles a little and calls back, "I will, Mama," before she starts walking very slowly towards the front entrance where they're to meet and looking about for Homura and trying to keep her excitement levels manageable.

    She's all decked out tonight, wearing a red dress with black and white accents. It has thin black shoulder straps that leave her arms completely bare with a low back and a sweetheart neckline low enough that it might be suggestive on a curvier girl but remains completely decent on Madoka, the top hem having an inch wide band of black. A strip of white has been sewn into the front of the dress, edged on the side with ruffles and with small black accent buttons lined up down the center, leading to a broad black sash tied about her waist, a black bow tied at the small of her back and dangling tails down to the hemline of the skirt. The skirt itself flares out and falls to mid-thigh, rimmed with white frills below and with two black stripes along the hemline with a stripe of red between, six little black bows lining the dress for decoration just above the higher, thinner black stripe.

    Over her legs she's wearing a pair of matching white stockings that end only a few inches above her knees, topped with a ring of frills, black covered by red and sewn in with a strip of white in the center. Her shoes are likewise a matching red with black bows on the tops.

    Her hair worn down rather than up, brushed out and ironed very carefully to allow it's natural curl to form waves without puffing up to an incredible volume. The observant will also notice she's wearing much more makeup than is normal for her. Not a lot, but enough to make it fairly obvious she's trying to make an impression. Foundation to even her skin tone, a touch of blush on her cheeks, a thin line of eyeliner and a bit of eye shadow to draw attention to them, and lipstick(!) just two shades redder than her lips normally are. Her fingernails have also been painted red, colored to match her dress rather than her lipstick, and she does wear one piece of jewelry- a thin gold necklace with a small and tasteful deep purple diamond cut amethyst set in gold that rests just below her collarbone.

    The overall outcome if the getup is to make her appear rather older than she usually does, an effect multiplied by the fact her usual outfits tend to prioritize her cuteness and youth. She's holding the short box, light purple with a darker purple bow, carefully in both hands as she walks towards the front doors.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura understands the significance of this part of their relationship, though maybe not in the same way that Madoka does. She's heard Junko's advice before, and didn't disagree with it, but she saw it from a different perspective.

    She's explained it to Madoka before. There's passionate love and there's companionate love. There's always a point where the passion fades, but companionate love, if it's there, overtakes the passionate and never fades. It almost seems cynical to describe something so beautiful as the last three months have been (and really, a bit longer than that, if one counts the friendship that preceded it) in such clinical terms, but she can't help but think that if she was going to grow bored or lose interest, she would have by now.

    Well really, after 10 years of fighting, was there any doubt? Madoka was worth every tear and drop of blood shed, and there was no doubt in Homura's mind about how either of them felt. She had once thought that only death could separate them, but now she knows better. When push came to shove, not even that could.

    She's here, wearing a beige dress with a black belt. A row of burgundy fabric roses lines the edge of the yellow hem, and under them is layered a longer deep purple dress and then another lighter purple dress underneath it. A dark red hairband sits upon her head, and a purple ornamental hairclip hangs over her left ear. She's wearing black high heels, and unlike usual she's not wearing any hose today.

    Homura often wears light amounts of makeup, but tonight she wanted to make sure that everything on her looked just right. Her eyebrows have been plucked, her cheeks have a slight amount of blush, and her lips are just a bit brighter. Her hair, especially has been given extra attention. It's silky and soft, with long curls that give her hair a voluminous wavy look.

    She's waiting by the doors, hands behind her back hiding a small box, leaning against the wall and looking at the ground. She notices Madoka's feet first, more noticing the motion of how her girlfriend walks before noticing any details. She starts at the feet, eyes working their way up to her stockings, the classy red dress, noticing little details like the painted nails, all the way up to her face, which she does notice is just a little bit more mature than usual.

    Not all of the blush in Homura's cheek is makeup.

    "M-madoka-chan!" she says, trying to get her angel's attention while still dealing with the shock of how good her date looks.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka sees Homura by the doors and very nearly calls out to her. Her mouth even opens to do so but just before she does she notices the way Homura is looking at her, seeing her eyes draw upward, and decides to keep quiet. Being looked at in such a way makes her feel very pretty, especially when it's Homura whose eyes are sweeping over her.

    She takes the chance to look her girlfriend over as well, having to suppress another trill of excitement at the beautiful layered dress and the gorgeous way Homura has styled her hair. The natural blush to compliment the makeup gives her an even more enticing look and Madoka has to remind herself that they need to eat dinner before they rush off to the dancefloor.

    "Homura-chan," she responds in an excited but (barely) controlled manner, lifting her chin a tiny bit as she gets closer to keep her eyes set upon the face of the taller girl. Madoka stops a single step away from her, only to blatantly let her own eyes sweep over Homura's outfit. "You look magnificent tonight, Homura-chan. I love your dress, and your hair is so very beautiful." She pauses for half a beat and then moves forward, slipping one arm around Homura and giving her a small hug, the skin of her arm brushing against the other girl's as both of them are wearing armless dresses, her hand very lightly resting against Homura's back for a moment.

    She pulls away slightly afterwards, lifting her hand up and lightly setting her fingertips on Homura's cheek, being careful not to mess up her makeup, and lifts her chin further while leaning in order to press a kiss to her lips. It is at first incredibly delicate, but only for a second The pink-haired girl follows it up by pressing in gently for a soft and lingering kiss, lips parting slightly as she draws away so she can whisper, "My love."

    Her hand retreat, fingers setting on Homura's shoulder and then sliding down the outside of her arm to take the back of her hand, setting into it the gift box she had been holding. "For you. Happy three month anniversary, Homura-chan." Pink eyes are partially lidded as they gaze up into purple.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Madoka approaches, and Homura watches with anticipating purple eyes. She shyly looks away for a moment as Madoka looks her over, but only for a moment, smiling and blushing at her slightly shorter girlfriend. As Madoka gets close again, one of Homura's hands reaches up to run the tips of her nails around the back of Madoka's ear, tracing down lightly to her chin. She giggles as her girlfriend compliments her, saying, "You, too. I was just standing here when I saw you, and I was shocked that I was so lucky as to date someone as lovely as you."

    The hug is welcomed, and she wraps her arms around Madoka in turn, holding her close as she always likes to do. Her embrace loosens as Madoka pulls away only to lean in to give her a kiss, and Homura presses her own lips against Madoka's. After her significant other pulls away, Homura responds with, "Beloved."

    Madoka's hand goes to her shoulder, then slides down her arm and then a gift is pressed into Homura's hand. She looks down at the gift box, and then meekly pulls her own hand around from behind Madoka, offering her a small box of her own. "I got you something too, Madoka-chan."

    She looks down at the gift that Madoka gave her, and decides that she'd be happier opening it while sitting down. Homura wraps an arm around Madoka's tilting the side of her head towards the front doors. "Shall we go in? I bet our table's waiting for us." She's ready to start walking inside if Madoka is.

    Homura leans against Madoka slightly, not too much because she doesn't want to accidentally push her over or something. "The last three months has been wonderful, Madoka-chan. All the time I've spent with you has been. You really have been my sweet little angel."

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka giggles as well as Homura says the sweet words to echo her body language. "Thank you," comes a quiet but happy reply, "I wanted to look my very best for you. I always feel this lovely when you look at me and I wanted to match it." A small shiver runs through her as her girlfriend's nails tease her ear and her jaw.

    She had been keeping a tiny bit of distance, but it fades as Homura pulls her close. If her outfit gets a bit rumpled for it that's fine; Homura already saw her with it pristine and if she's the one who wrinkles it it's not likely to matter.

    "Thank you, Homura-chan," Madoka speaks for the second time in a few moments as the gift is offered to her, taking it in her hand and looking over the box eagerly, only to smile up at Homura as she suggests they go inside. "I'm sure it is, we're right on time." She links arms with the beautiful young woman beside her and walks to the front entrance side by side, striding through the opened double doors and towards the Augusta's restaurant, short heels clacking in even time against the marble floors.

    As Homura leans against her Madoka keeps upright and lets her put as much of her weight on her as she likes, entwining her arm more with her love's in a more relaxed and casual manner. "They've been almost like a wonderful dream. If there weren't a few bumps along the way I might have a hard time believing it's all real. Getting to know you and spending time with you has been the best time of my life. I love you, Homura-chan. And I think I always will."

    When they reach the entrance to the restaurant the lighting is lower, lit by high hanging crystal chandeliers for a luxurious and candid atmosphere. The pink-haired girl leads the two right up to the hostess' podium and smiles, "Kaname, reservations for two."

    The Hostess bows politely and holds an arm to the side, "Ah, yes. We were expecting you, your table is ready. Please." She leads the pair to a nice quiet corner of the restaurant, in what is likely the best seat in the house with a wonderful view of the beach and harbor beyond. The only downside is that the table is, in fact, for two without room to sit side by side. "Here you are. Your waiter will be around shortly." She bows once more before returning to her station.

    Madoka reluctantly lets go of Homura's arm and slips into one of the seats, smiling to Homura while she almost immediately carefully slips one of her stocking feet out of her shoes and teases the side of her big toe against Homura's ankle after the other girl sits as well. She leaves her menu alone for the moment.

    "You can open your present now if you like," she offers with a sparkle in her eyes. If Homura does she'll find the box is a small jewelry box designed for it's purpose and holding a tasteful gold necklace much like the one Madoka is wearing right now, only with a small pink emerald cut into a teardrop shape.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura nods eagerly as Madoka says the time has been like a wonderful dream. She's been so happy lately, and she's glad that Madoka's happier because of it, too. Leaning in, she says softly. "I love you too, Madoka-chan. I always will. I know it." Even with the aforementioned bumps in the road, it's hard not to be confident of that as she says it.

    Homura starts getting excited as the couple starts going inside, and it's probably not hard to tell from the spring in her step and the way her arm lightly squeezes against Madoka's. She giggles softly as Madoka tells the hostess that they have reservations and she giddily follows along as they go to the table.

    She notices that she won't be able to sit next to Madoka for dinner, and she releases Madoka only after giving her a soft kiss on the top of her head. Madoka and Homura have always communicated their feelings through physical contact, but they can go through at least one meal without doing that.

    Besides, there's always footsies, as Madoka's toe reminds her. Homura playfully goes along, slipping a foot out of her high heels and brushing her toes against the arch of Madoka's foot.

    Once Madoka encourages her to open the gift, she says, "Okay!" Looking down at the box that Madoka had handed her, she starts to open it, delicately, looking inside it as an almost... sly smile crosses her face. She picks up the teardrop necklace and rests it in her palm, looking over it at Madoka. "I love it." She pinches it between her thumb and index finger, holding it up to let it glimmer in the light, regarding it with a devilish grin. "It looks like the most beautiful thing I've ever seen: your sweet and wonderful soul."

    She holds it up to her neck, loosely holding both ends of the snap behind her neck. "How does it look on me?" It'd require Madoka getting up but... "... Would you help me put it on?"

    Homura's own gift was along similar lines, though not exactly. A gold-chain necklace, with the centerpiece being a golden outline of a heart, with a silver infinity symbol set into it. One side of the infinity loop is filled with purple amethyst, and the other side is filled with pink emerald. "You should open yours," encourages Homura, eager to see Madoka's reaction.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Hearing Homura says those words with such confidence makes Madoka's heart skip a beat. Always is a very, very long time, but with how much the time traveling Puella has been through it's easy for Madoka to believe what she says. Some people might say things like that out of headiness and without much thought, but Madoka knows well just how deeply and earnestly those words are meant.

    The excitement is infectious and Madoka has to keep from giggling as she talks to the hostess, instead giving a squeeze to Homura's arm with her own. It is possible that they could go even without the footsies, but even that bit of closeness has Madoka wanting to retain it. She smiles when the top of her head is kissed, looking sweetly at Homura as she sits down across the table from her.

    When the bottom of her foot brushed against it jerks a bit and a tiny giggle escapes her, though she doesn't pull away fully. If Homura decides to be as devilish as her grin and tickle her foot with her toes she'll have a hard time maintaining her composure!

    "I'm glad you like it. I have one that looks just like you're loving and protective soul, too." She places her hand beneath the small amethyst and lifts it, only to slip her foot back into her shoe and stand up, "It looks great on you, Homura-chan, and I'd be happy to help you." She walks around behind Homura, carefully brushing the immaculately styled hair over her sweetheart's shoulder and somehow managing to keep from playing with it in the process. She takes the two ends of the necklace and clips it together, smiling happily and leaning down to whisper, "There you go," into her ear, only to press a small kiss to her temple. She even helps her date's hair back into place... and sneaks one luxurious pet over the top of it before slipping back to her chair.

    She then picks up the box and carefully opens it, almost having a giggle fit when she sees how similar it is. Her eyes sparkle and her smile is wide and bright as she lifts it, showing it off to her girlfriend like the prize it is while looking over it herself. "It's beautiful, Homura-chan." She brushes a fingertip over the centerpiece, "I'll treasure this. Our souls really do belong together forever, don't they?"

    The necklace is then placed over her chest and she tilts her head, "Would you like to?"

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura does mean it earnestly, and the only reason she'd be hesitant to say it is because she doesn't want to sound insincere... but their love has been tested over and over, in this timeline and others. It hasn't broken or faltered once. The fact that Homura has had a taste of how Madoka really feels doesn't hurt.

    Homura's game of footsies is a slow, teasing play. She doesn't go in right away, instead slowly sliding her toe against the sole of Madoka's foot, tracing up to wiggle her toes against her angel's own. She mischievously watches her girlfriend's reactions, finding a small guilty pleasure in her shifting.

    Homura glances down at the necklace that Madoka's wearing, and then back at her eyes. "I noticed. I really like it. It's like we have a set now. My heart's always with you, so it's only fair you'd have something that symbolizes that." She sits still and behaves herself as Madoka gets up to help her clasp the necklace around her. Her smile flashes teeth as Madoka whispers to her, kisses her, and briefly plays with her hair after. "Thank you, my dear," she whispers back, before Madoka goes to sit down.

    Then Homura watches in anticipation as Madoka opens the gift she had gotten her. She also giggles, since apparently they had similar thoughts. "I was a little hesitant to buy you jewelry at first, but... I thought something like that would be tasteful and not too gaudy. ... and yeah I think they do. I'm glad you like it."

    At the invitation, Homura puts her foot back into her high heel and stands up. "Oh I'd love to, my darling." She manages to maintain her composure and not be too mischievous as she walks around behind Madoka, placing her fingers on the chain and tracing them upwards, lightly brushing over Madoka's fingers until she finds the clasps. Well, maybe that's a little mischievous. She wraps the necklace around the back of Madoka's neck, and places the clasps together, adjusting the chain so that it doesn't overlap with the other necklace that Madoka's wearing.

    She leans forward, gently and briefly holding Madoka from behind. "All set, Beloved." She kisses the back of Madoka's head before she goes back to her seat and sits back down. She dreamily gazes across the table at her girlfriend. Homura lets out a soft sigh, watching Madoka. "I'm having a wonderful time already."

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka squirms a little in her seat as the game of footsie turns into playful teasing, the brushing against her toes getting them to curl in her stockings and her leg shivering a little as the sole of her foot is so delicately touched. An outside observer might not notice anything, but facing each other so intimately as they are and knowing each other so well Homura would easily be able to notice the suppressed giggles and little peeks she's being given.

    "You're always in my thoughts... It'll be nice to have something with me to look at and hold in my hand when I'm thinking of you when we're apart." Not that they're apart all that often, really, but she does want to have a physical memento as well as her memories.

    Her hand lifts and covers her mouth and she giggles into it, not quite able to contain it this time. "It is tasteful. Tasteful and classy, Homura-chan," she gets out between giggles. Then a tiny shake of her head, "Not ostentatious at all. A necklace like this is fine... especially since these mean so much to us," she notes, looking over the amethyst and pink emerald, and the infinity sign it's set into. "I love it, thank you."

    Homura gets up to help her put on the necklace and Madoka blushes as fingers tease over her own, peeking up at her through her eyelashes as she moves behind her. She closes her eyes and sighs happily as Homura holds her. "Thank you," she says while enjoying the gentle embrace, quietly hoping it could last forever but knowing just how silly that is.

    Her lips curl into a smile as her head is kissed, and as Homura returns to her seat Madoka lifts her hand to lightly take of hers as she passes nearby. The table is small enough if Homura holds her arm out she needn't let go while she sits, Madoka hoping to keep hold and then interlace her fingers between the beautiful dark haired girl's and hold hands across the table. "I must be spoiled by your love if it feels like one little table is an ocean between us."

    The menus are luckily unfolded, though double sided, focusing on fine specialties rather than offering an enormous selection. There are in fact only three main courses available tonight; roast duck, poached halibut, or leg of lamb, though there are various salads and appetizers to accompany. "If we don't order early it'll take longer to get to dancing," Madoka notes before picking up her menu. She holds it at a very shallow angle after she picks it up with her free hand, looking down at it but also peeking over it at Homura. Rather than trying to look into her eyes though she's trying to steal peeks of her while she's reading, enjoying the sight of her gorgeous girlfriend and thanking whatever luck she must have to have someone so amazing.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura's grin widens just slightly at Madoka's giggling and squirming. Knowing that Madoka likes to be teased doesn't exactly discourage her, either.

    Her fingers trace over the edge of her new necklace as she nods at Madoka. "I feel the same. I like having something that I can look at when I think of you." It's true that they aren't apart that often, but if they ever miss each other it will be nice to have something like this. If one didn't understand the context, they might think that Homura was overly interested in jewelry, but really it's the exact shape and color, and who those represent, that she's interested in.

    "I'm glad you like it, Madoka-chan. I love what you gave me, too. I might be reluctant to take it off."

    If Homura had her way, her embrace wouldn't ever end, and their many hugs and cuddles are a testament to just how much they enjoy that closeness, but that's not on the agenda. At least not for this meal. There's always later.

    Madoka's hand takes Homura's, and Homura doesn't dare break contact, even as she walks around to her seat, holding it as gracefully as if they were dancing. Their fingers interlace, and she smiles as she looks into Madoka's eyes. "Remember? I said I wanted to spoil you. I want you to know what you're worth." She winks at Madoka. "You're my little angel. I can't help it if I want to hold you forever."

    Her eyes go down to the menu as Madoka mentions them. With a sharp nod she says, "Right! The sooner we eat the sooner we can get to dancing!" She actually leaves it where it lay on the table, reading it as her hand holds Madoka's. She considers the choices of meals. She occasionally glances up towards her girlfriend, at first when Madoka isn't looking, but eventually Homura catches her looking and giggles.

    After considering the meal for a bit, she eventually looks up from her menu, propping her chin against her free hand. "I think I'll go for the lamb, and maybe a salad. How about you, dear?"

    Homura takes a moment to adore her girlfriend. She's looking a lot more mature today, and Homura takes notice of that. She appreciates it, since she does like that look for Madoka. Something about wanting to see her live long enough to grow up maybe, or maybe it just looks good on her. Either way, Homura can't help but notice that her girlfriend is still adorable, the way she peeks over her menu at her occasionally. She brushes her thumb against Madoka's hand gently. She's not going to let a table stop her from expressing affection.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka gives Homura a playful pout when she sees that grin, though her eyes are far from sad.

    She knows better than to think Homura cares too much about jewelry. Considering that she both has a lot of money and, for god's sake, the ability to stop time and steal things with no chance of getting caught she would likely be completely covered in precious metals and gems if she were. Instead that fondness she shows towards the gift is recognized for what it is. "You can wear it as much as you like, Homura-chan. It's gold so you won't ever have to worry about it rusting or getting tarnished."

    Then a blush as Homura reminds her about spoiling her, "You did... and I think you're succeeding. I'm starting to know how much I'm worth to you, because I know how much you mean to me... which is everything." The wink demures her a little and she smiles in return. "I'm glad. I love being your little angel. You still make me want to be sweet and loving to you, and I don't think I'm ever happier than when you're holding me."

    A brighter, more playful smile and a nod, "Exactly!" Because as delicious as the dinner is sure to be aren't the both of them eager and excited to dance once more in that amazing ballroom where they had so much fun on New Years Eve when they were still only friends, if close ones.

    The blush gets somewhat more intense when Madoka gets caught peeking, reddening her face as well as her cheeks. It obviously isn't that she's embarrassed to be caught looking at her girlfriend, but getting caught sneaking peeks when Homura doesn't know she's looking is different! "I can't help it, you're too pretty," comes the teasing excuse.

    "I think I'll have the duck in that case," Madoka decides when asked, setting the menu down so it's clear they're ready to order. Her fingers squeeze gently against Homura's hand when she feels the thumb brushing over her skin, enjoying that small show of affection and loving the fact that Homura is always finding ways to do so. She never ceases to be amazed by how much she's loved and adored, which might be why she's been so very happy the last three months.

    Soon the waiter comes around, introducing herself and asking if they're ready to order. Madoka takes the lead right away, "Yes, we're ready. I'll have the roast duck please, and my darling," she squeezes Homura's hand again, "would like the lamb and a salad." On the question of potential drinks she quickly replies, "Sparkling cider, please." Her eyes turn to Homura's even while her face is in the direction of the waiter, "This is a big occasion, after all."

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura looks at the gold as Madoka mentions it, smiling, and gently lowers the necklace, allowing it to hang off of her neck. Having something that's basically a replica of Madoka's soul is nice, but she also has the real Madoka right in front of her to admire. "Thank you, Madoka-chan. I really like it. I can't tell you how much it means to have something that reminds me of you."

    After all, as Homura sees it, Madoka is her Soul Gem now. This is close to having a locket with her picture in it. It's as much a picture of her as the three Madoka gave her earlier, and an especially fancy one, too. Her fingers clasp around it as she gazes dreamily across the table at Madoka.

    "You mean everything to me too, Madoka-chan. I'm happy to have you with me. You are sweet and loving to me, and you always have been."

    Homura giggles as Madoka and her agree. The thought of getting to dance with Madoka makes her so giddy. Getting to be so close after having to spend an entire meal apart... such a tease! Yet it comes from a promise, and Homura can be patient. After all, she had to wait when Madoka and she danced last here, didn't she?

    When she catches Madoka looking at her, she smiles at Madoka's excuse, giving her another wink and saying, "Look all you like, my dear~."

    Homura enjoys the warmth of Madoka's hand, holding it for as long as Madoka lets her. Eventually they may have to use both of their hands to eat, but they've got a while before that happens. When Madoka orders for the two of them, Homura smiles just a bit wider, her foot reaching beneath the table to brush against Madoka's ankle.

    She nods at the mention of sparkling cider. "Very special, and I get to share it with a very special someone."

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "You're welcome, Homura-chan. I wanted to get you something that fit the occasion, and also something that I thought you'd like very much." Madoka lifts the centerpiece of the necklace and looks at it fondly, "You were even thinking the same thing, we're getting to know each other very well." She brushes a finger over the infinity symbol inside the heart again, looking up afterwards and smiling happily to Homura.

    She's called sweet and loving and her cheeks warm, just visible beneath her makeup. "Of course I have. You're so deserving of my kindness and my love that I can't help myself." She turns her soft pink eyes into the purple of Homura's, looking into them for a long moment before saying, "You've always accepted and appreciated me for who I am, and that means so much to me," a soft squeeze is given to her hand. "Even when I made it very hard for you you told me to stay exactly as I was."

    A tease when the outcome is assured is the best kind, the excitement able to be subdued into a sweet expectation. For a very short moment when Homura is looking at her she sways ever so slightly in her seat, in time to some unheard waltz.

    Then she's given a wink after offering up her silly excuse, smiling despite the embarrassment and replying, "Maybe I will! But then I wouldn't have time to look at my menu..." Because she'd never look away, of course.

    The widening smile is not missed by Madoka as she takes the lead and orders for Homura as well. Somehow she manages to keep from showing too much as her ankle is brushed by her loving partner, her eyes sparkling a bit. Luckily she already had a faint blush on her cheeks!

    After the order is taken the waiter bows politely and takes it to the kitchen, Madoka slipping her foot back out of her shoe to return the footsies, brushing the top of her foot beneath Homura's and then sliding her stocking clad calf up along her sweetheart's leg, just high enough to reach the bottom, lighter purple layer of her skirt.

    She smiles happily again at the words very special someone and leans forward a little over the table, enough that she can comfortably lift her hand to press her palm against Homura's as well. "My most special someone. I'd be lost without you. I'm so happy that we get to spend so much time together."

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura giggles at the mention that they were thinking along similar lines. "We were! We really are getting so close. It's amazing." Purple eyes watch as Madoka brushes her finger against the infinity symbol. Not too long ago she was toying with the gift that Madoka gave her, but to see Madoka do the same brings a blush to her face. She meekly smiles back at Madoka, happy that she managed to get something that Madoka would appreciate.

    Homura blushes a little harder at what Madoka says next, her free hand grabbing her dress underneath the table. "I can't help but love you, either. I could never stop loving you. You're my everything. How could I not adore you for who you are? Who you are is wonderful. I wouldn't change a thing."

    As Madoka sways in her seat, Homura mimics the motion as if dancing with her, and then covers her mouth to giggle. The black-haired girl can't help but think about how adorable Madoka is. She giggles even more as Madoka says she wouldn't have time to look at her menu. "Ah! That'd be terrible. How'd we ever get to our dance, then?"

    Homura tries to keep a straight face as Madoka's foot runs up her leg, but she can't help but smile as her girlfriend's foot moves up to the edge of her dress. Homura's own shoe is slipped off, and she brushes her leg against Madoka's, sliding up to tickle the inside of her knee.

    Homura leans forward, her hair brushing against the table. "You're my most special someone, too. I wasn't even happy before I met you. You've given me so much."

    Homura spends a few moments staring happily at Madoka, tilting her head slightly to the side and letting out a happy sigh. Her fingers wrap around Madoka's hand after her hand shifts position. For the moment, she allows herself to get lost in those sparkling pink eyes.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "I'm so happy to get this close to someone as wonderful as you, Homura-chan." Not long ago Homura was trying to keep herself focused because of Madoka while in a labyrinth, and now their positions are reversed. Madoka is trying to be calm but the urge to squeal as the dark haired girl smiles meekly at her is strong. She's just so adorable sometimes! And most of those times are for Madoka alone.

    Then there's even more of a blush and Homura's words are so sweet Madoka actually has the urge to hop up from the table so she can walk over and hug her tight. The fact she's able to hold her hand and play footsie with her is just enough to keep her in her chair. "See? You're so sweet and lovable. My adorable Homura-chan."

    When her sway is mimicked she can't help but giggle a little herself, breaking the streak of successfully maintaining her composure. She hums a few notes as they sway only to give a shake of her head, "We can't let that happen! I want to dance with you for hours and hours, and that means we have to eat."

    The smile on Homura's face as Madoka's stocking leg teases along side her own gets a playfully mischievous sparkle in Madoka's eyes, though she seems slightly off guard when the underside of her knee is tickled. She lets out a short high giggle, putting her hand over her mouth to cover it. She draws her own foot back afterwards, trying to press the tips of her toes up against Homura's.

    The playfulness in her expression changes to one of her sweet, kinder ones at the next words spoken. This time she really can't help herself, half standing to lift herself up enough to lean forward, brushing the side of Homura's head and trailing her fingers down lightly over the lock of hair in front of her ear, only to slip beneath it and cup the side of her face. "I want to make sure you never have to be unhappy like that again. I love you, and I'll do everything I can to make you happy. Every day I get to see you smile and enjoy life makes me feel happy and excited inside." She returns the gaze, staring deeply into her eyes and not saying another thing for several long moments, her eyes expressing everything she has to say about how happy she is being with the girl across the table with her and how much she loves her without need for further conversation.

    Enough long moments that to her embarrassment she's still out of her chair like that when the waiter comes with their sparkling cider and Homura's salad. Madoka half panics, entire face and even part of her upper chest turning red as she hastily sits back down, looking out the window so she doesn't have to face the waiter. Her reflection can be seen easily enough to Homura, however, and she's taking peeks towards the dark-haired girl's reflection, face a mask of embarrassment.

    To her credit she did keep a hold of her girlfriend's hand!

Homura Akemi has posed:
    If Homura knew how much Madoka had to resist the urge to squeal, she might be trying to make her squeal harder. As it is Homura is just enjoying the love and affection she's receiving from the one person she adores most. Like a plant basking in the sun's warmth, that's how Homura sees herself now. It might have to do something with why her cheeks are so warm.

    What Madoka says next actually causes Homura to stutter. "I-I... well. I mean." She covers her mouth to clear her throat, trying to reclaim some of that elusive composure. Then she gestures towards herself in a playful mock innocence. "Me? I'm adorable? My my. It must be your influence. You're rubbing off on me, Madoka-chan."

    Homura rubs her ankle against Madoka's ankle as she repeats. "Hours and hours... I couldn't think of a sweeter way to spend my time. Looking into your eyes. Feeling your softness. Holding you close. Moving with you, along to the beat. You're getting me so excited, Madoka-chan."

    Homura watches her girlfriend's reaction with an impish smile, and as her toes are caught by Madoka's she tries to entwine her toes with her girlfriend's. When Madoka nearly stands up, Homura holds still, looking up with wide eyes as Madoka touches her hair, then her face. Her purple eyes are locked on Madoka's pink, enthralled.

    The dark-haired girl looks like she might be about to cry as her beloved tells her such kind things. "You do..." She smiles, brightly, looking up at Madoka. "You do, Madoka-chan. You make me happy. You make me happy all the time. You are the best thing that's ever happ--"

    The waiter comes, and Homura's first indication is the salad being placed in front of her. She startles about the same way that Madoka does, settling down to watch the waiter, and then flashing a smile and saying, "Thank you." It isn't until the Waiter is gone that she says another word.

    "Ah, Madoka-chan. We really can't keep our hands off of each other, can we?" She squeezes Madoka's hand, smiling at her girlfriend's reflection. "Beloved little angel."

    Homura finds her salad fork and stabs a bit of her appetizer before bringing it to her mouth. After crunching and swallowing a bite, she turns her attention back to Madoka. "Would you like some? It's good."

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    It's embarrassing enough to have the waiter arrive while she's leaned over a table to cupping Homura's cheek, but to be going 'Eeeee!' in the middle of it would perhaps require rushing off to the bathroom to hide for a few minutes. It's probably for the best Homura isn't trying to cause such a reaction- at least here and now.

    The stutter only proves to confirm Madoka's thought about how adorable her girlfriend is. Maybe other people might not agree, but Madoka imagines they would if they got to see this side of her. And if they never do and Homura really does keep the softest, gentlest side of herself for Madoka alone? That's so sweet and romantic how could she couldn't possibly complain. She smiles sweetly at the romantic words spoken back to her. "Is that because of me? I'll have to rub on you more if that's why," she says quietly, stifling a giggle while imagining drawing her beautiful date to the cuddle couch to do just that.

    It's her turn to get teased next, her ankle rubbed while a romantic description of dancing is spoken to her. "You're not the only one excited. I know it's part of the fun, but I don't know how much longer I can stand it."

    She's lost in Homura's eyes and words before being surprised by the waiter, and is glad when Homura recovers enough to thank him for his prompt service. She feels the squeeze to her hand and returns it. With an embarrassed expression she looks back towards Homura, her face still colored to match her hair. "It's hard not to want to touch you and hold you when I love you this much. Especially when everything is so romantic... I'm having a very good time so far."

    At the offer of salad she smiles and nods her head, "Sure! I didn't think I'd be able to eat a whole one of my own but I don't mind sharing." She does luckily have a salad fork of her own, reaching across the table a bit to stab some lettuce, being very careful not to drop any on the table before taking a bite. Unbeknownst to her she gets a little drop of dressing on her bottom lip.

    Once finished with the bite she settles a little bit, "It is good." After another one she speaks up again, "I know it isn't very mature of me, but I always find myself wanting to be close to you and held by you, and I love hugging onto you, too. Before we were dating it was because I was a little lonely... but now I'm not lonely at all. It's because I enjoy it so much. Being close to you makes me feel so loved and cared for I can't ever seem to get enough." Her voice is soft as she speaks, though not quiet. She isn't trying to be romantic so much as describe honestly how she feels.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura does tend to keep a metaphorical shield up around others. Even now, few people really see her smile as sincerely as she is right now, and fewer still get to hear her laugh. Not because she's unhappy, but she's somewhat guarded when it comes to her feelings. Madoka's the only one she feels she can really show this meek and vulnerable side to. So it is a side she gets to see for herself.

    'Rub on her some more'. Homura has to cover her mouth to stop herself from bursting out laughing. It takes her a moment, but after she's sure she can open her mouth without laughing she responds. "Well, you're such a good role model. Clearly I should spend more time with you." Homura leans forward just the slightest bit. "More time... getting close... to you." The cuddle couch is sounding more appealing by the moment. Not that it ever didn't.

    Madoka doesn't know how much longer she can stand it. Homura gets a sparkle in her eye and keeps right on rubbing Madoka's ankle. "I don't know how much longer I can stand it either. You're just too cute for me to resist."

    More seriously, she adds, "I'm glad you're having a good time. I am, too. Especially with all of the romance and the sweetness. Especially with you."

    The two set into the salad, and Homura glances up to see a bit of dressing on Madoka's lip. She starts to say something, but Madoka is talking about how she likes to be close to her. Homura wants to hear it and can't stand to interrupt. So she waits until after Madoka finishes until she mentions, "You have a bit of dressing on your lip, dear."

    Probably not the most romantic thing to follow that up with, but Homura doesn't stop there.

    "I don't really mind if it's immature. I think we're pretty grown up for our age. At least, we have more responsibilities than I think the average teen does." She leans forward, looking into Madoka's eyes with a sweet smile. "I was lonely too, before I met you, but neither of us have to be like that anymore. You're my very best friend, my little angel, and I'm lucky enough to call you my girlfriend. I do love and care for you, and I can't help it either. I want to be close to you."

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka's smile brightens playfully when Homura covers her mouth to keep from laughing. "You can spend as much time with me as you like." Now it's her turn to keep from giggling as Homura leans forward. A moment later, "You can get as close to me as you want, too." Not that they don't already spend a whole lot of time close to each other.

    Of course right now it's actually Homura doing the rubbing, if you count ankles. Madoka returns the playful footsies again, sliding her ankle alongside Homura's and lifting her foot so the top of it and the tops of her stocking toes slide over the back of Homura's calf. "We're both strong people with a lot of willpower... I believe in us. We can make it!" She can't help but let a bit of playfulness into her voice. It's just so silly to treat something like keeping from hugging each other for a single meal with such gravity.

    "It's only because it's with you that it's so romantic and sweet. You're a wonderful girlfriend and partner, Homura-chan. As much as I'm sweet to you, you're always just as sweet right back. We both like the same romantic ways of talking to each other, and spending time close to each other. As different as we are, we're both very much alike. I think that's why we get along together so well."

    With a small blink and a tiny blush she lets out a surprised, "Oh," taking up her napkin and carefully dabbing along her lips to remove the offending dressing. She waits until Homura's done speaking for, "Thank you."

    She smiles a genuinely happy smile when Homura says she doesn't mind any immaturity that comes from wanting to be close, nodding gently along and taking the opportunity to eat a bit more while she elaborates. She returns the gaze into her girlfriends eyes, expression softening at the sweet things she's called. "I'm happy to be every one of those things to you, Homura-chan. You're my very best friend too, and I love being your little angel. I've never regretted being your girlfriend... even when things were very hard it was only because I care so much about you and want you to stay with me forever."

    A soft blush is once again on her cheeks and she says in a quiet voice, "I want to be close to you, too."

    She lets her eyes linger on Homura's once more... only to close them and smile. "Let's finish up this salad!" Of course she knows that finishing the salad faster won't bring the main course out any sooner... but a part of her still hopes it might.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura lets out a soft 'hmm' and smiles as Madoka says she can get as close as she wants. "Oh believe me. I will, my dear sweet Madoka-chan." It's a promise, and also a probably pretty accurate prediction, considering how things tend to go between them. "We'll get right up close and then you'll be all mine."

    Homura closes her eyes as Madoka's foot rubs up the back of her calf, letting out a sigh as she enjoys their unseen game of footsies. At least, she assumes it's unseen. It probably is. She nods emphatically (or at least, a playful imitation of emphatically) as Madoka says they both have a lot of willpower. "That's right. We'll make it somehow, and if we're really good we won't even knock over the table in our rush to embrace each other."

    She's playing, right? Of course she is.

    Homura nods as Madoka speaks, agreeing with every word and smiling at the compliments. "We are very much alike. We like to cuddle and be close. We don't mind going out of our way for each other. We might differ on some things, but romantically I'd say we're very compatible. We just... fit each other, really."

    Homura smiles softly at Madoka, having seem to calmed down at least a bit. At least, she's not blushing quite so much... but her cheeks do redden again at some of the things that Madoka is telling her. "Things have been rough, but there have been a lot of fun times, too. ... and yeah, it was the same for me. It was only because I was worried about you. I suppose we both care so much, don't we? There really isn't any doubt in my mind about how either of us feels."

    At the mention of finishing off the salad, Homura nods sharply. "Right!" She moves the salad plate a bit closer to Madoka so that she can reach it easier. Then, with her fork in hand, Homura sets in, making sure to steer around Madoka's own fork as she grabs bits of salad, dips it in dressing, and eats.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka giggles softly and answers, "Good," to the promise and prediction, though when Homura declares she'll be all hers her eyes blink a few times, "But Homura-chan..." she looks away for a moment, only to return her eyes to Homura's and say in a sugar sweet tone, "I'm already all yours."

    If someone did notice the game of footsie there wouldn't be much to do about it other than blush a bit more. There is a reason that Madoka made sure their reservation would be in a corner of the restaurant. Actually, it's perhaps a bit of a shame they have such a nice view of the harbor; they're hardly spending any time at all looking at it because of how often their eyes are on each other. Another giggle comes, "I wouldn't want to make a mess. Our service has been very good, I'd feel very bad if I made them have to clean up a fallen table because of me."

    "I do think we're meant to be together like this, Homura-chan. We get along too well, and we mean too much to each other. Getting to this point where we realize how much we mean to each other hasn't been easy, but now that we do it seems so clear to me." Madoka smiles across the table to her date, giving her hand another squeeze.

    A thankful look is given as the plate is slid a bit closer to her and she continues helping to eat the salad, which is rather good. She lets her end of the conversation quiet as she eats, though that doesn't stop her from enjoying the beautiful purple color of Homura's eyes or the lovely way she's done up her hair. Her footsies slow as well but don't stop, the inside of her foot brushing gently against the outside of Homura's.

    In the end her hope is in vain, but in a happy way- there's been enough chatting and sweet talking that the main course arrives before the salad is even gone. The waiter returns, setting down a juicy leg of lamb in front of Homura and a full half of a succulent roast duck down in front of Madoka. Each has been well seasoned and is served drizzled in an appropriate sauce, a side of roast vegetables sharing the plate.

    "Thank you!" Madoka says happily to the waiter, finishing up the bite of salad on her fork afterward before starting in on her duck. "It's delicious!" she tells Homura, "You'll have to try some." Then a moment later she adds embarrassedly, "I didn't know there'd be so much. We might have to find somewhere to keep leftovers while we dance."

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura's smile grows a little bit wider and more devious as Madoka says she's already all hers. "Hehehe, then I'm going to be greedy and keep you all to myself." Her foot moves up to tickle the side of Madoka's leg for emphasis. "Better be careful. The more fond I become of you the harder it will be to let you go~."

    At the mention of the falling table, Homura nods several times in agreement. "That's right. It just wouldn't do. We'll just have to wait. I'll admit. Something about the delay only makes it all the better."

    Homura beams at Madoka as she says they're meant to be together, then looks down to stir her food a little. "We both gave up a lot for it, but I don't regret it at all. We are meant for each other, aren't we? We really are so perfect together. Nothing has made me doubt that. Dating you has been better than I ever imagined it would be, and it keeps getting better still."

    She doesn't quite finish the salad as the main course comes, and as the leg of lamb is set down before her she looks at it and then looks across the table at Madoka. "Smells good!" She takes a different fork and knife and starts cutting up the piece of lamb, devouring it and tasting it while letting out a pleased, 'mmm'. After she swallows, she says, "It really is good."

    At the mention of not being able to finish, Homura looks at her lamb and then at Madoka's duck. "There really is a lot, isn't there? I suppose if we're sneaky about it I can store them inside my shield." That thing really is too handy. With a smile, she adds, "Then we can get to dancing. And getting close like we've been talking about all night."

    Homura cuts off a bit of her lamb, and offers to put it on Madoka's plate. "Would you like some? It's really good."

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka twists from side to side in her chair, "Oh no, you won't share me even a little?" She giggles as her leg is tickled, only to shake her head and look at Homura with her head titled slightly downward, "Why would you ever have to let me go? Or do you mean..?" She lifts her hand and covers her mouth while she giggles for a moment, "I think Saotome-sensei would be upset at us sharing a seat in class."

    A bit more serious she replies, "It does. I'm going to enjoy hugging you and dancing with you even more because I'll have waited for it all through dinner." She then takes in a breath and lets it out happily, closing her eyes briefly to think of how many fun times they've had together. "It's hard to imagine it getting even better, but it always seems to. You were right when you told me about love; it does keep growing stronger when it's true."

    There was no doubt that the company would be enjoyed on the date, but Madoka is happy when Homura seems to be enjoying her meal as well. She wanted everything to be absolutely perfect tonight, and so far things seem to be shaping up that way. "I'm glad you like it, Homura-chan."

    Storing the leftovers in Homura's shield is suggested, and Madoka blinks. She has to cover her mouth to be polite as she laughs afterwards, shaking her head sheepishly afterwards, "I forgot about that..! You're right, that would be perfect. I'd feel awful if I wasted such good food." She makes an excited nod, "I can't wait! But I have to remember to eat slowly." Being polite is important, especially on a date! "I hope the first song is a really slow one," she says in a wistful tone.

    The lamb is offered towards her plate and Madoka smiles, "Yes, please!" She follows suit, cutting a good sized chunk of duck free and offering to put it on Homura's plate as well. She tries both, taking small bites of each. "They're both good! The lamb might be a little better, but having some of both is best." A sweet smile and a soft tone, "Thank you for sharing with me."

    After another minute of eating she remembers something all of a sudden, finishing her bite and waiting until Homura finishes hers as well before reaching over and picking up her glass of sparkling cider, "Happy three month anniversary, Homura-chan!" She holds her glass forward to offer to clink them together before taking a sip.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    "Not even a little!" says Homura, crossing her arms and shaking her head in an almost childish way. At the mention of sharing a seat in Saotome-sensei's class, Homura starts to giggle lowly, curling up slightly and covering her stomach as she laughs. "Well, maybe I'll let you go for school, then. I can't imagine what that lecture would sound like." She considers Saotome's own romance troubles, which she only knows about because she goes on about them before class. Homura really can't imagine fussing about something like eggs when there's so much to enjoy.

    "Ah, but waiting is the hardest part~. Hope deferred makes the heart sick." She leaves out the fact that the second half of that quote is about how nice it is when you finally get what you're hoping for. She closes her eyes and nods. "It's true. It's one thing to know it in theory, but it's something else when you're feeling it, isn't it? I don't think I've ever noticed it on a visceral level before."

    Sometimes the best solutions are the simplest ones, and well... Homura's shield is good for things like that. As long as she doesn't have to explain it to people who don't understand magic, which she fortunately never seems to have to do. At the mention of a slow song, Homura smiles and slowly sways in her seat again, before giggling and continuing with her meal.

    Homura places the lamb on Madoka's plate, and accepts the offered duck, tasting it and enjoying the flavor. After finishing that bite, she says, "Thank you too, Madoka-chan. They're both very good, aren't they? This really is a great place."

    Madoka remembers something, and Homura stops in the middle of cutting another piece of lamb as she watches what Madoka is doing. When she goes for the cider, Homura gets it. "Oh!" She lifts her glass of cider, clinks it against Madoka's glass, saying, "Happy three month anniversary, Madoka-chan. Here's to many more anniversaries afterwards."

    She takes a slow sip, looking at Madoka over the rim of her glass.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    There's a tiny pout on Madoka's face as Homura claims she'll hoard her completely, matching the childish arm crossing and headshake. She smiles when her joke about sharing a seat in class gets a laugh, only to laugh herself at imagining the lecture. "That would be horrible! I bet she'd give it to us in front of everyone else too. And if she was having a breakup right then too she'd probably talk through the whole class about making lonely people jealous."

    "I'll try not to make you wait too long, Homura-chan," comes Madoka's response to the half-quote. If she could eat faster while enjoying it just as much and staying polite she would! Though really it isn't as if she's not enjoying eating the meal with Homura. If the expression on her face is anything to go by she's having a very good time. "It's very different." She looks up for a few moments, tilting her head, "I love Mama and Papa and Tatsuya very much, but it isn't the same as the way I love you. I always want to be around you and close to you, and sometimes when we're not together even if I know I'll see you soon I.." She looks perplexed for a moment before looking back to Homura, "'yearn'?"

    When she returns to her food it's shyly, but luckily the food is so good that before long she's eating and enjoying it normally soon enough. "It is a great place; I'm glad we came here."

    The toast is made and Madoka nods in emphatic agreement, "Many more!" She meets Homura's look over her own glass, while enjoying the flavor of the cider and the fizz it makes on her tongue. She sets her glass down while holding onto it a moment, looking across the table to Homura and smiling. She takes another small sip before letting the glass go. "Thank you, Homura-chan. For being here for me and being here with me. I know that's a silly thing to say, but I'm so thankful to have you and," blush, "to be yours that I wanted to say it anyway."

    She'll get back to her meal after, because the dancing really can't come soon enough!

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura smiles and giggles, for a moment. Then she starts remembering that egg lecture. The one she's heard like 99 times in a row. The one that has become so inane that it's almost a form of torture to listen to. She looks out the window for a moment. "Yeah, we'd probably never hear the end of it." Yup, that's all she has to say about it.

    Homura nods, looking across the table at Madoka, smiling at the mention of Madoka's yearning. "Me too. I kid about keeping you all to myself, but I really do enjoy every moment I'm with you. Even at the worst of times, I still felt more... complete, when you were around. When I'm alone with Amy in my house sometimes I sit there wondering when I get to see you again." Her smile and eyes turn a bit sheepish. She grips her dress under the table, and her head tilts down so that she's looking 'up' at Madoka. " I know we're together a lot, but it's hard not to be eager about it."

    She glances away, back out the window. "... and I do love my friends, but it really isn't the same. I don't feel like I need them the same way I need you."

    After the toast, her eyes linger on Madoka's. She swishes the cider around in her hand as she smiles. She watches as Madoka drinks, and even a bit longer as she goes back to eating. She winks again as Madoka blushes. "I'm the one who should be thankful. You've been wonderful to me for as long as I've known you. To be with you like this, I really am grateful. I'm glad that I get to make you as happy as you make me."

    She sets her cider down and starts back on the lamb. Delicious lamb. Nom nom nom. Homura is almost too perfect in the way she eats, not getting any of it on her lip or on her. She wants to look her best when she dances with Madoka, after all!

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    When Homura gives her that sheepish look Madoka smiles, peeking down to her plate before meeting her gaze again. "So do I. It was especially hard going back to school after getting to spend so much of my days with you, but I think it does help me appreciate how much I enjoy the time I spend with you." There's no way to keep a blush off her cheeks when she adds, "And sleeping alone in my own bed... I love all my stuffed animals but having you to snuggle with is so much better."

    She then nods a little at the mention of caring for but perhaps not needing friends to the same degree. "I know what you mean." She teases her fork about in her plate while thinking for a moment, stabbing a vegetable but not quite eating it, "I think part of it is that we're very good friends as well. I can talk with you about anything and you'll understand. I'm sure you know me better than anyone else does."

    The wink brightens her blush and puts a happy but slightly shy smile on Madoka's face. "I know you are, and that's part of what makes me so happy to be with you. I know without a doubt that you care about me as much as I care about you. I know that we both make each other happy. I know how much we love each other, and how far we'd go for each other." As she looks into Homura's eyes her gaze goes from sweetly romantic to something deeper and more intimate. She wants to reach out and take Homura's hand again but instead tries to express her feelings through that look alone, loving and devoted.

    The fact that the two of them are both apt conversationalists does make it so they have very much to do with their mouths other than eat, but the food being so good does help make one want to keep eating once they've begun. Like Homura Madoka is on her best behavior in trying to eat politely. It doesn't hurt that she'd be beyond embarrassed if she got food on her dress before they had their first dance. She's going to try to eat until she's full without speaking much more- sweet anticipation is good, but there is such a thing as too much of a good thing!

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura imagines the thought of Madoka snuggling on her stuffed animals, and she can't help but smile. She does manage to stop herself from giggling or squealing, but only just so. There's a reason the first gift that Homura gave Madoka was a plushie shark, after all, and a lot of that reason was that she knows Madoka likes them. "Snuggling with you is amazing. I could do it forever if I had the option."

    Homura cuts off another piece of lamb as she listens to Madoka, pausing to smile as Madoka says that she can tell her anything. She's glad that Madoka feels that way, and she certainly doesn't try to judge her. "I think we are, yeah. We tend to talk about whatever we want, and it's true that I've seen a number of sides of you others haven't, but those are some of your more endearing qualities."

    Homura admires the pink on Madoka's cheeks, and the exact shine of her eyes, and the sweet tone of her voice as she listens, nodding in agreement with what she says. "I don't think it's possible to go further than we've already gone. We mean a lot to each other, and there's no room for doubt on that front anymore. Maybe that's why I trust you as much as I do."

    Madoka looks at her, with a loving and devoted look, trying to express her feelings through her eyes alone. Eyes that Homura is currently admiring. Homura blushes slightly, biting her lower lip and never taking her eyes off of Madoka. She tilts her head slightly to the side, a small smile on her lips, gazing softly at Madoka. For a while, she holds that gaze, her own eyes full of love and wonder.

    She keeps eating, falling silent as Madoka does. She doesn't want to eat too fast, but she also doesn't want to waste time. They promised each other they'd dance, didn't they? They both want it, so Homura doesn't want to waste any time in getting to it either.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "It's good you think so because I want to snuggle with you a lot more!" Madoka isn't the least bit shy about that, especially not when they're alone on a romantic date. "Cuddling with you is probably my favorite, but kissing you and dancing with you is also amazing." She blushes a little more, shifting a bit in her seat as she realizes she's only going to make herself more impatient if she keeps talking about being close. "I would too," she finally agrees about snuggling forever.

    Madoka smiles sweetly when Homura says the parts of her she knows that other's don't are endearing, "Thank you... As much as you compliment me it's always nice to hear. You're so good to me." Literally trying to spoil her, if she recalls correctly.

    Her head shakes then, "I don't think it is. We got to see each other and the way we think in a way I'm not sure many people ever have. I could feel how much I meant to you, and I hope you could feel the same from me." In truth they hadn't discussed the actual experience out very much since then, had they? But the line of communication in that moment was so open and complete, both intellectually and empathically, that why would they have to?

    That her gaze is enough to make Homura blush makes Madoka happy, because it means her communication must be getting through. Her heart seems to flutter when she bites her lip, returning the smile while looking into the eyes of the one she loves above all.

    As they eat she gives more of those gazes, filled with love and adoration and the promise that soon they'll be in one another's arms. Before too long Madoka's succulent duck is gone, along with the chunk of lamb given to her by Homura, and she sits back in her chair, taking a sip to finish off her cider. "I'm full. That was really good." She could probably eat more... but she doesn't want to get completely stuffed right before dancing anyway.

    When both diners are finished the astute waiter swings around and drops off the bill, which Madoka pays as discreetly as she can. Neatly closing boxes are offered up for their leftovers, and Madoka carefully puts the remains of her duck inside- she was a good girl and ate all her veggies!

    With that complete she gets up from the table, fixing her eyes on Homura while walking around the table and offering a hand out to help her up out of her chair. She'll do so politely enough if the offer is accepted, only to pull her close before opening her arms and taking her sweetheart into them, pressing close and squeezing her closer while leaning her chin against her shoulder.

    A deep breath is drawn in and a long, happy sigh escapes her. She couldn't wait any longer.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    There's very little reason to be shy about cuddling. The two of them have been doing it for months now, and it's clear they both enjoy every moment of it. "I can hardly wait. I think snuggling is my favorite, too. Other things are fun too, but cuddling is like a perfect expression of how we feel, in a lot of ways. Drawing each other close, both giving and receiving love." Homura's eyes sparkle as she speaks, looking at Madoka while she fantasizes about having her close again. "So does that make our pajamas a romantic thing to wear?" she thinks out loud, giggling at the idea of that.

    "It's just the truth dear," Homura says in response to Madoka's thanks. She is trying to spoil her, and she isn't shy about that. "You're just so amazing that I never run out of positive things to say about you." Another attempt to spoil Madoka, maybe? Then again, it's not like Homura could really say it without sincerely feeling it. "... and you're good to me, too. You always have been."

    The moment of their shared connecting is brought up, and Homura has to pause mid-drink in order to think back to that time. She sets her cider down before she says, "I don't know if anyone has been that close before. I think it says a lot about how much we're willing to trust each other that we were able to have a connection like that. At the time, I didn't even know what it was you had done. I just... wanted to respect your wish, whatever it was." Truthfully, there isn't a whole lot to say that hasn't already been said. A complete and open connection like that leaves very little room for misunderstanding.

    "I have to say, though." Homura pauses, setting her knife down and resting her hands on the table. "You really surprised me, back then. In a lot of ways. I didn't think anyone would accept me on the level you did. I thought you'd chastise me about some of the things I thought, but you didn't. You were so good to me. I can't help but think of you fondly for that."

    After all, though she doesn't say it, a lot of Homura's newfound confidence is largely because Madoka accepted her so fully.

    It seems the two of them always find new ways to show affection for one another, even if it's just in the way they look at each other. Homura makes sure to keep expressing her love through her eyes as they eat, not wanting to waste time talking but still wanting to show her feelings.

    Homura finishes eating about the same time that Madoka does, and even if she had room for more there's no need to overdo it. Madoka beats her to paying the bill, but Homura doesn't want to completely not contribute, so she leaves a decent tip on the table for their waiter. Homura also ate her veggies, because she is a mighty warrior and mighty warriors need to eat well. Well, maybe not need but the better her body works the less magic she'll have to use. Her meal is also boxed up. For someone with infinite inventory space, she certainly knows how to pack her meal efficiently.

    Homura looks up with anticipation as Madoka gets up and out of the chair. She closes her leftover box and takes Madoka's hand, standing up and gleefully embracing Madoka as she's held. She waited a long time for this, and was teased the whole time! Granted, some of that teasing was Homura working her own self into an excited state, but still! Homura's going to enjoy it.

    She squeezes Madoka, whispering, "Shall we go, my dear?"

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "It's nice getting to be so comfortable next to you that I fall asleep and it's a good thing. I feel so safe and happy when we're together and cuddling, it really is wonderful." Madoka can't help giggling as well along with the idea of pajamas as a romantic outfit. "I did tell you once that if I had to pick an outfit for you it'd be pajamas. Maybe they don't look the most romantic, but I know if we're both in our pajamas it will be a romantic time together. What's more romantic than holding each other close and exchanging our snuggly love?"

    Another giggle, this one with a blush as the sweet words are brushed off as the truth. Homura must be succeeding, because Madoka certainly feels spoiled. "I'm so good to you because I think you deserve it. I want you to be as happy as you make me."

    Are they the first people to have had such a connection? It's possible. There can't be anything more intimate than sharing the depth of your mind, emotions, and experiences with another person such that they feel everything directly themselves. Madoka is thinking on that when Homura mentions her acceptance, and the pink-haired girl lifts her eyes from her plate to look across the table to her. "I told you then... I love everything about you. You'd never do anything to hurt me on purpose. If you didn't trust people it was because they gave you reason not to."

    She looks into her eyes, "I still believe that completely. I think you're a wonderful and sweet person who was forced into a horrible situation. You always did the best you could. It's only because of all your hard work that I can be here with you like this now... I have so much to be thankful to you for, I could never chastise the hard choices you've had to make." Even if no one else is ever able to truly know the softest sides of Homura that's okay, because Madoka does and she's fully intent even now of nurturing even those sides of her she had to fully close off from the world in order to press forward on that seemingly impossible, unending mission. That mission was, after all, for her.

    When Homura is finished and their food is boxed up Madoka is simply indulgent in the hug she gives the beautiful dark haired girl, closing her eyes and rubbing on her while squeezing her close. The urge to whisper her love once more is there, but her greedy hug probably says it well enough already.

    After hearing the whisper she pulls away with a nod, taking Homura's free hand in her own and squeezing it, unabashedly walking very close by her side. Her smile is happy and radiant and now that her urge for closeness is satisfied she's back to gleeful excitement at the prospect of getting to dance.

    A dance that will have to wait for one small detour out of sight for stowing away the boxed up meal remnants in Homura's magical storage space, but that shouldn't take terribly long. Soon enough the two are walking into the grand ballroom of the hotel, a lively but moderately paced waltz offering a comfortable enough introduction.

    Once more Madoka is anything but shy, walking hand in hand out to the center of the dance floor before cozying up to Homura, lifting her free hand up to her shoulder and looking up into her eyes, inviting her to lead. Oh, how she's been waiting for this.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura can't help but laugh as Madoka says 'snuggly love'. Just the way she says it is so adorable! "Honestly? I can't think of anything better than that. Getting to be so close to you, for so long. Falling asleep next to you, and then waking up next to you, holding you the whole time... I don't think it can get much sweeter."

    'You'd never do anything to hurt me on purpose. If you didn't trust people it was because they gave you reason not to.'

    Homura reflects on that, looking out the window before looking back at her girlfriend. "Yeah, and when they don't remember those reasons they put the blame on me." She's unhappy, thinking about it. Still, there was one person who wasn't like that. "You always gave me a chance, though. I never felt like I had to protect myself from you. I guess that's why I feel closer to you than anyone else."

    Her foot reaches over to brush against Madoka's before she adds. "I love everything about you, too. I always have. I said before that you were worth all of it, and you are, and I still feel that way. I've saved you before, true, but you've always saved me too. Even before you really knew me, you were good to me, because that's just who you are, and I'll always love you for that."

    With a faint smile, she holds her hands together in front of her. "I think that's why it took me so long to see how you felt. I assumed there wasn't anything special about me, that you treated everyone well. It wasn't until then, when we were linked, that I really knew how you felt."

    Packing the meal away isn't hard. It just requires ducking around a corner, making sure that no one's watching, and henshining briefly. There's always a convenient blindspot to hide in whenever a magical girl wants to henshin, after all. Homura does it quickly, eager to get to dancing, and if one were to be distracted for a moment they might miss the whole thing.

    The grand ballroom is finally reached, and Homura's excitement builds. "You don't know how long I've been waiting for this." She says that, but Madoka has been waiting about the same amount of time. When the lead is given to her, Homura easily flows into it, going slowly both to make sure she has the rhythm and to give themselves both a chance to warm up.

    She holds Madoka close as she dances, leaving only enough room for the two of them to dance comfortably, holding onto Madoka's hand with one hand, and wrapping her arm around Madoka's back.

    She let's out a deep sigh, almost like a sigh of relief. After so much buildup, finally they've made it to this point.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "Waking up next to you is the best," Madoka says in a wistful tone, remembering how wonderful those times have been. Especially the times where she was able to wake up slowly and relax next to Homura.

    "They don't know you like I do," is her quiet response to Homura when she mentions the others, only to smile when her own actions were mentioned. "Most people have a reason for why they do things, and only very few of those reasons are because the people are just awful. A lot of the time they just don't know any better, and other times it's because they're hurting. Most people don't seem to see it that way, but I do."

    The footrub gets her attention and she looks up again, smiling. "We're always saving each other, aren't we? In more ways than one. You saved me from being lonely... but you said you were lonely when I first met you as well." Madoka blushes again when told she was good just because it's who she is. She can't really deny it because it's true, but it's still embarrassing when said so plainly. There are few higher compliments to her than being told she's a good person. Homura liking her and loving her so much because she's a good person is one of the big reasons she felt so able to trust in her, even before she knew her so well. If that's a quality someone holds in such high esteem it speaks volumes about their own character.

    "I try to treat everyone well, but you're very special to me. I always wanted to help you and to see you happy. Getting to see you happy now and to love you even romantically... it's everything I could have wanted and more."

    On the dancefloor Madoka falls easily in step with Homura as they begin to dance. They've danced enough with each other that Madoka can even start to anticipate her movements and motions. Such anticipations make it easy to surprise her with variations, however, and she can't ever help marveling at how expertly Homura seems to manage guiding her both in the enjoyment of the dance while also keeping them from crashing any of the other dancers.

    She sways from side to side with the rhythm of the music, skirt swishing against Homura's and around her legs. In a moment like this she hasn't a care in the world except for the sound of the music, an enjoyment of their environment, and the joy of being warm and cozy with her beloved as they dance. A soft hand in her own, a strong reliable shoulder to hold onto, the lovely feeling of that arm around her, holding her close.

    Her eyes are sparkling again and they're transfixed upon Homura's, looking into them yes but also admiring them for all their purple beauty. She'll let herself be a little more vain here on the dance floor, because she'd be lying to herself if she didn't think Homura was jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Most of the time it was a happy fact she'd acknowledge and compliment, but here she can completely soak in her beauty as she stares into her eyes and peeks at her face.

    The music rises and falls, and as the two dance together on their three month anniversary there's no doubt that Madoka is both completely enchanted and utterly smitten with Homura.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    "There are a lot of things I can blame people for, but there's a lot of excuses I can make for them, too." Homura shrugs, spreading her hands out helplessly. If anyone wonders why she's occasionally really nice while also being occasionally very cruel, it's because of her internal conflict between lashing out in pain and yet also feeling empathy for those who suffer like she does. "... I think the way you see it is right. At least, in my experience, people have some kind of reason, or some kind of blindness. Often both."

    Homura smiles as Madoka reminds her that they're always saving each other. "We are, aren't we? One way or another. You've been the most important thing for me for so long. I think, at first, I wanted to be like you." She leans in, resting her chin against her palm, elbow propped on the table. "You keep telling me how cool I am, but at the start I was the one who always looked up to you. I never dreamed that things could be this wonderful."

    Dancing, Homura and Madoka move together in sync. Madoka's come to know her even down her dancing habits, and while she can use that to surprise her she can also use it to communicate her intentions. Avoiding a crash isn't difficult to her. She'd need at least that much situational awareness just to survive in a Labyrinth. It's even easier to move around in a place like this because no one else wants to crash either. Still, even in this way, Homura is still protecting her, arm around her and eyes watching her back.

    Most of her focus is spent on enjoying the dance with Madoka. The basic steps are easy enough to get into, and they both know them well enough. When the music reaches a peak, Homura pulls back, twirling Madoka around before smoothly bringing her back in. Her movements and timing are as perfect as ever, and on this night especially she wants to make sure that the experience is divine. She is, after all, sharing it with an angel.

    Homura's eyes rest on Madoka. One might think that she wasn't even paying attention to where she was going, so transfixed as she is, but Homura's good at paying attention to her peripheral vision, and the result is that somehow, seemingly magically, the two of them are always just in the right spot.

    After a while she settles into a groove, savoring the moment of closeness. No matter how often they do this, she'll never get tired of it. The days she gets to spend with Madoka are the best days of her life.

    Homura leans in, tilting her head down slightly to kiss her slightly shorter girlfriend on the lips. She holds it for a good long moment before pulling away.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "You have a lot to be angry or upset about, and a lot of it is about things people you know now didn't have much to do with except it having been their personality. I know it has to be very hard for you, that's part of why I want to give you lots more happy memories to make up for them." Madoka looks across the table to Homura, giving her a quiet, sympathetic look. "I also know that won't fix everything. You can be happy and still have bad memories affect you, especially when you're dealing with the people those memories are of. If things are difficult for you like that again... I want to be there for you for that, too."

    She giggles a little at what Homura says next, "You are cool, Homura-chan. You're amazing in so many ways." She blushes then, finding it hard to believe someone like Homura could look up to her when they first met. Hard, but not impossible- she knows a lot more about what Homura was like back then than she used to. Even though she was able to share in Homura's memories, and regain some of her own from those times, they still feel more like movies to her than memories of real experiences. The nature of Homura's timetraveling meant that she was starting each time period anew, with only the foggiest dreams as recollections of the past and the karmic potential thrust upon her by being the center of those many timelines.

    To Madoka 'before meeting Homura' means being lonely and without friend her own age in America, the only real joy she had being time spent with her family and her work as a candy striper. It means feeling mediocre and with no real hope of becoming anything of note, a burden more than a help to those around her. That's why even now it's incredible to her to hear that she was the role model, the one the amazing Puella Magi in front of her looked up to. Hearing things like that make such a difference, helping her reevaluate her self worth not only now, but as how she was before. Homura has been in the best position to see the change, from unsure and doubting to confident.

    "Thank you, Homura-chan. That really means a lot to me." She finds purple eyes with her own soft pink ones, looking dreamily into them, "It is wonderful, isn't it? We're good for each other. We compliment one another so well. I think I know what people mean now when they say they feel like one two halves of a single whole."

    On the dance floor Madoka picks up the cues given to her, moving as one with Homura. She is, perhaps, a bit greedy in this moment, allowing her whole and sole focus to be the beautiful girl leading her. She probably could give some of her attention to not bumping into people, but because she relies on Homura she's able to do nothing but enjoy the experience of dancing and how amazing it is to be so close to the person she loves most.

    When Homura pulls back she readies herself, twirling on her feet at the right time, skirt flaring out as she spins and lifting a bit higher on her thighs, the tails of the black ribbon tied at her back swirling about her waist. She steps in close to Homura when she's brought back and resumes the enjoyable motions and swaying, smiling brightly with her delight displayed fully upon on her face.

    They're eyes are upon each other, and as Homura looks at her heart flutters in her chest. That look given to her, set upon her so completely as they dance, so very similar to the one she gives. It makes her feel beautiful, and that is an extraordinary thing. Beautiful, cherished, and adored. Things she's always wanted but never thought she could have, thoughts that now seem foolish if such an amazing person as Homura could feel so strongly for her.

    The last time they danced here Madoka told Homura that moments like the one they shared then were what she wanted to protect. Many things have happened in the last four months, including gaining the power to do exactly that. Being back here again and enjoying herself she can't help but feel she made the right decision for so many reasons. Moments of pure happiness like this one are things to be treasured, and she intends to make the absolute most of it that she can.

    Homura leans in and Madoka has to fight the powerful urge to lift up on her toes to meet her halfway, to rush into the kiss and cling to it. But she holds back, lifting her chin the slightest bit to make it easier and closing her eyes, sighing happily and pressing against her taller girlfriend when their lips finally do meet, the texture of her own slightly different from usual for the lipstick she wears as she returns the kiss. Their lips part and Madoka's eyes half open as they meet Homura's, giving her a longing look that expresses how very much she enjoyed the given affection.

    The dancing continues and as the music slows with a change in the song Madoka sways in Homura's arms. Her expression is happy and undeniably romantic, lifting slightly to nuzzle her cheek against Homura's, forgetting her makeup for a moment, reaching past her shoulder for a moment to brush her fingers over Homura's long hair. Her eyes open wider again and her expression changes slightly, adoration showing in her eyes as she lets go of Homura's hand and sets it on her hip, shifting her posture to slip her other arm around her and drawing her close.

    It feels very much like Madoka is holding her there in her arms, because that is exactly what she's doing. It's rare for her to lead but right now she'd like to, moving in a simple swaying circle that makes it easy to keep aware of the other dancers. She wants to let Homura feel as loved and adored as she does, and she also wants to give her a chance to let even that last little bit of vigilance go and enjoy herself completely, even if only for a single dance.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura does have a lot to be angry about. She still kind of is, and no matter how nice Madoka is to her, it doesn't change the fact that Mami, Sayaka, and Kyouko have all been pretty unfair to her in their own ways. This timeline has been no exception. Combine that with the fact that such 'unfairness' has often resulted in life-or-death struggles, or sometimes just outright death, and yeah. That has a way of imprinting itself on the mind in very permanent and animalistic ways.

    It's very easy for Homura to lash out. Being calm and understanding is a lot harder.

    "I'm glad that you're here for me," she finally says. "I know I'll have to deal with them again. It's just... remember back at the concert we first went to? The Yoko Kanno one? You asked me if I considered you a friend, and I didn't know how to answer that, because over all of those timelines we had a wide variety of completely different relationships. Well, it's the same thing for the other Puella Magi, too. Except with them it's worse. You've never been my enemy."

    She looks back out the window. She keeps finding something new to look at out there, or maybe she just has trouble maintaining eye contact when talking about this. "It's just hard to deal with. I love you, and I'm happy to spend time with you, but I for the others I almost feel like I know them too well to feel comfortable around them. I guess that's the difference between loving someone and not."

    Homura has noticed the change, but it's like the setting and rising of the sun to her. Every time she resets, she puts Madoka back at the 'unconfident' stage, only to see her gain it again. It's part of the unfairness, really. Madoka finally starts to find herself just in time to die. Well, this time she gets to live, so far at least, so at least Homura can tell herself that Madoka got to enjoy her life more.

    "Yeah. I do, too. I guess you're right. We really are meant for each other. I didn't really think I'd ever find that, but here you are."

    When Madoka suddenly takes the lead, Homura is quick to adjust. She's more than happy to be led, and she loves the way Madoka leads her, though there is a brief moment of confusion while Homura changes gears.

    Homura smiles at her little angel. She does trust her, and even if she didn't they're both pretty sturdy and wouldn't really get hurt if they bumped into someone. Mostly, without her leading, she stops focusing and thinking about that. Instead, she starts to focus on the exact color of Madoka's eyes, the cute color of her cheeks, the softness of her skin, they way she looks at her with half-lidded eyes.

    The dark haired girl meekly blushes again, being looked at that way. It almost feels off somehow, like that kind of affection is for other people and not her. Yet, here she is, and the affection is for her, and it's Madoka who is looking at her that way. Madoka, whom she loves and adores and always has.

    She's being held, and looked at, and there's so much affection that a part of Homura can't believe she's actually here. She ignores that part, holding Madoka close, smiling as she looks into those beautiful pink eyes.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "I remember," Madoka replies with a nod. She looks down into her plate as Homura looks out the window, "We had very different relationships, but the whole time we both wanted what was best for each other. The problem was we never understood what that was, until now." A small smile creeps onto her face and she peeks up from her plate to Homura, "In the end the best thing for us was each other."

    Madoka has a hard time understanding what it's like to see the other Puella as enemies. She can understand feeling wronged, hurt, and angry, but she can't truly get her mind around being so directly opposed. Wishing harm upon someone is something antithetical to her very nature. If someone hurts her she wants them to stop but she doesn't wish harm to befall them in turn; what would be the purpose of that?

    She thinks about Homura's relationship with Mami, Sayaka, and Kyouko for a few moments before saying, "They all have their own ways of making things difficult for you. I don't think any of them actually mean you any harm, though what you want and what they want might conflict. In the end, though, when things were desperate fighting Walpurgisnacht they were there to help. And at the North Pole, too." After a moment Madoka makes a dismissive wave of her hand, "Sorry, this probably isn't the most romantic thing to talk about tonight."

    Madoka offers an apologetic smile in the brief moment of confusion as she changes over to leading Homura rather than following. It seems to have had exactly the effect she was going for, with Homura able to focus fully on the dance itself, and her smile widens a little at the blush. Her steps and motions begin to flow better and come easier as she adjusts to leading the dance herself. It is a slow song so even as she gets more comfortable she keeps things simple, staying cozily close as she leads Homura in slow, sweeping circles, her chin lifted so she can easily look into her eyes, her own easy to study.

    Madoka's hold on Homura is sure and steady but also the sweetest caress, her hand brushing Homura's side for a moment when it isn't needed to guide, the arm around her holding her close enough to be intimate, almost private despite the public venue. She has so much affection for the dark haired girl and so much love to give, the adoration showing in her eyes and in the softness of her expression, her face unmistakably one of someone gazing upon something much beloved.

    "My darling," she whispers quietly enough that only Homura can hear over the music. For as much as Homura has always loved and adored her, Madoka has never found anyone more deserving of her love and care than the one she holds in her arms right now.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura twitches and keeps staring out of the window as Madoka says she doesn't think the others mean her harm. Her mouth becomes a tight line. There's a lot she can say to that. There's a lot of fury and rage she could go on about, but Madoka doesn't deserve to take the brunt of that. She especially doesn't want to get too upset on this evening in particular, or get into an argument. Yet, Homura strongly disagrees. Mami, Sayaka, and Kyouko all do mean her harm, and they've demonstrated that clearly. Sure, Homura's concerned about their lives, but she does not in any way feel like that's reciprocated.

    "I don't really think it's that simple." Homura opens her mouth to say something else, but she holds herself back. It's a visible effort. She's quiet for a long time, and for the first time in probably a long while Madoka can see Homura's teeth gnashing. "You're right. It's not a very romantic topic. Maybe I shouldn't talk about it."

    Madoka's kindness has made Homura feel better, and she does enjoy her life a lot more, but it doesn't do much to help her trust other people. The other Puella aren't responsible for Madoka's virtues any more than she's responsible for their sins. Yet, now really isn't the time for that, and she pushes those feelings aside. She's here to celebrate, right?

    Homura dances happily with Madoka. The fact that she's so cozily close isn't hurting things at all. This was, after all, exactly what she wanted, and exactly why she was teasing Madoka so relentlessly earlier. Homura really is a creature of physical comfort, no matter how much she tells herself that her body is just a shell, and dancing this close to Madoka most certainly provides that.

    "Beloved," she whispers back. This isn't the first time Homura's found herself wishing that her whole life could be like this. It probably won't be the last. "You really do make me so happy, and you really do mean the world to me. Moments like these are what makes it all worth it."

    She thinks back to the last time they danced here, remembering what Madoka said back then. Homura didn't respond well, but she didn't understand how Madoka really felt back then. "Didn't you say it before? You wanted to become a magical girl, because you wanted to protect things like this. I'd like to protect them, too. With you."

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka is honestly confused. She didn't realize that Homura was still harboring so much anger towards the others. She'd talked before about not being able to trust them, and that's something she understands completely. But not trusting someone is still a lot different than thinking they intend actual harm, and the last time they'd talked Madoka had thought Homura agreed that the others had at least pulled together in times of crisis. Maybe Homura had been excluding the other Puella without her realizing it? She isn't sure.

    What she is sure of is that if she continues this conversation any further it's only going to make Homura upset, and that is exactly the opposite of what they're here to do. She's already said she's sorry so all she can do is offer an apologetic look as Homura's teeth clench. "We can talk about it later," she offers, not wanting Homura to think she wants to avoid uncomfortable topics altogether.

    Homura can think of her body as nothing but a tool, a shell that no longer houses her soul, if she wants but there's no denying the fact that being close is so comfortable and enjoyable. The softness of Madoka's skin, the warmth of her body- these are real things sensed by her own body, detached from it though she may be. The sound of the music, the rhythm of their movements alongside it- all things that the little ring on her finger has no means of sensing without her body.

    "I'm glad you're happy. I want you to be happy. I love being close to you and getting to hold you like this, but seeing you happy when we're close is best of all." If all the worries and dangers of the world flew away, Witches and Youma and everything that went with them, if all that remained was dancing, holding, and talking with Homura Madoka would be perfectly happy.

    Both their minds seem to go back to the same memory, not entirely unexpected when it's such a fond one in this very same place. "I did. Because moments like these are too important. I think they're the most important things in the world. Whether it's as lovers or friends happy memories like these are what make everything worthwhile." She squeezes close to Homura, smiling. "You've already done so much, but I'll be happy to be your partner in protecting these happy times, both ours and others."

    She leans in, lifting slightly on her toes. A quick assessment to make sure it'll be okay if she stops paying attention to the other dancers for a moment and Madoka presses her lips softly to Homura's, kissing her sweetheart while moving along slowly to the music. She loses herself in the moment, forgetting to do anything else for over ten seconds until the music changes to the beat of a quicker song and she subconsciously picks up the pace to match.

    She's blushing and giggling when she finally pulls away, teeth showing as she smiles meekly at her own silliness, though for the moment seems ready to lead Homura in this song as well, feeling perhaps a bit bold.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura giggles and watches Madoka as the two of them dance together. "I like being close to you, too. I know we say it a lot, but this time is worth a lot to me. If fighting means I get to have more times like this, then it is worth it. It always has been." Homura is starting to get to like the use of the word 'partner' in this case. Sure, Homura's more experienced, but Madoka's proven herself to be a very capable magical girl in such a short amount of time. Aside from that, Homura doesn't want to be too overbearing either, which is why she's happy when Madoka takes the lead, and also why she's happy to be called Madoka's partner.

    "Fighting alongside a partner is something I'll have to get used to. I've spent so long fighting by myself, but I think we have a lot to offer each other." After a step, she adds, "... In addition to the love and comfort, I mean."

    Speaking of which, Madoka leans forward to kiss her, and Homura closes her eyes to accept the kiss. She doesn't mind that Madoka holds it for a long time, either. If anything, she's happier for it. Madoka can kiss her as often as she wants to, as far as Homura is concerned! When the music changes, Homura keeps up, still stepping in time with Madoka as naturally as if the transition had never happened.

    "You're getting a lot better at this, Madoka-chan." Homura's voice is pleasant and soft, gliding along as Madoka leads her. In this moment, she feels graceful and light, happily following wherever she's led. "I don't know if I've ever told you this, but I really like this side of you. Seeing you confident, and skilled. You really are heroic you know, my dear sweet Madoka-chan."

    If Homura was just a bit more innocent, this would be the point where she has trouble dancing due to finding herself suddenly weak in the knees. As it is, she manages to keep standing, telling herself that literally swooning would put an early end to their dance.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "A lot more times like this," Madoka states as if it's a promise. "It's okay if we say it a lot; it's important to both of us, especially now. We've both given a lot for each other." She's quiet for a moment before smiling, "I think it's worth it, too. Getting to spend time with you is wonderful, especially when it's this close."

    Madoka has to keep from giggling a little when Homura says she'll have to get used to fighting with a partner, "You've done a really good job so far, Homura-chan. You're always looking out for me anyway, and now I can help look out for you, too. Once we get really good at fighting together we can practice new ways to use our talents together." She does giggle when the addendum is made, "The love and comfort is enough to get it's entire own category, with us."

    The pink-haired girl couldn't be happier that her girlfriend is eager to accept as much kissing and closeness as she likes to give. As affectionate as Madoka is it might be a bit of a problem if Homura was squeamish about accepting it in public. She appreciates it all the more as Homura accepts the lingering kiss and doesn't seem to care at all that the girl leading her in dance got lost in the moment. Has the dark haired girl ever pushed her away, even once? Madoka can't recall a time that ever happened. One more thing to love about her.

    "Thank you," she says happily to the compliment, once more aware of the dance floor and it's inhabitants. There are many other dancers, but right now even the best dancing couldn't draw her eyes away from her date; making sure she won't run into them or impede their movements is all the attention they'll get from her. Even confident and skilled sweet words like that are enough to draw a blush from her, "You really think so? I'm happy... helping people... saving them and protecting them, that's what I wanted to be able to do. If you think I'm heroic, I have the praise of the person whose opinion I care about most."

    If Homura were to swoon Madoka would have no choice but to sweep her off her feet. As it is she'll have to settle for trying to do so metaphorically rather than literally. With the music good for it she whisks Homura across the dance floor, taking her to one side and then spinning her out to the very edge, only to draw her back in, catching her so her back is to Madoka, whose arms wrap about her. She dances like this for a little while, only to spin Homura away again, and this time when she draws her back she'll catch her and dip her low.

    Madoka's eyes sparkle with mischief and she leans into kiss her beautiful dance partner again. The music isn't exactly right for it, but right now Madoka doesn't mind bending the rules for it just a little.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Homura smiles at the thought of getting more used to working together as partners. She's sure that Madoka can handle herself on her own very well, but they are still better off in a team. It makes things a lot safer, knowing that at least one person has your back at all times. Like Madoka said, Homura was always watching out for her anyways. That's still true, but it's different now. She's no longer protecting Madoka from the dangers of Puella life. She's guarding her while she goes through them.

    "I would like that. Finding new ways to use our powers together, I mean. I always did think that my time-stopping powers would be helpful in a group, I just... didn't really have someone I could fight alongside until now." There's also the fact that Homura didn't want to rely on anyone, but... well, she still believes that self-reliance is a good thing, but it's also good to be able to work with others, too. In that way, she's learning something new.

    Homura certainly doesn't mind people knowing that she's dating Madoka, and that's the kind of thing that the public affection communicates. There might be a point at which Homura would rather be alone with Madoka, but there's nothing particularly embarrassing about cuddling or kissing. If it makes other people squeamish, well... they'll just have to get used to it.

    "You are heroic, Madoka-chan. You're the best person I've ever known, and you've always been a hero to me. It's true that for a time I wanted to spare you from the dangers of being a Puella Magi, but this is the you I first fell in love with." Homura smiles so brightly. Back then it was a dark time, but it was also the time in which Madoka entered her life, so there's something good to be said about that, too. "... besides, hearing you say you want to protect everyone's happy memories. You are a hero, and I love you for that, and many other things too."

    Homura is whisked across the dancefloor, happily moving along with Madoka. When she spins, her dress sweeps around her, and her soft silky hair swings behind her, and Homura giggles gleefully as Madoka catches her again, only to soon take Homura for another twirl. When Madoka dips her, Homura leans back, purple eyes sparkling as she's smiling up at her angel, as her hair falls behind her.

    Her eyes close as Madoka goes in for a kiss, and Homura holds her close the whole time, savoring each sweet moment. It isn't until after the kiss that she says, "I'd even say you were dashing, my dear."

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    "They are! Being able to attack from different angles in a single moment is amazing, especially when we can take as long as we need to set our attacks up without worrying about being attacked ourselves while we do." Madoka cheers on the obvious highlights of Homura's powers for working with others while tactfully avoiding mention of not having anyone to fight alongside. They already got close enough to drama earlier; no need to reintroduce it in the midst of dancing. "It isn't only your time-stopping, though. You can do all kinds of other amazing things, like controlling cars, airplanes, and boats, and being able to carry as many supplies into a fight as you need. I'm not sure how my magic could interact with them, but it would be neat if we found a way."

    It's true. If people don't want to see the two of them kissing it's in their best interest to either not be in the same room with them or look the other direction. Madoka's purpose has never been to shove her happiness in other peoples faces, but she isn't going to pretend to love Homura any less on account of what's supposed to be right or not. It isn't that she simply doesn't care if other people are uncomfortable, she just doesn't expect them to understand that what the two of them share is far beyond the simple crush that people their age are usually experiencing.

    How could she possibly expect them to know how far the two of them have gone for one another, that they've effectively sold their souls in order to protect each other, and have gotten direct glimpses into each other's minds and only become closer for it? She doesn't expect the public at large to understand what it means to defy the laws of reality itself in order to bring back the one you've lost- not just wanting to but actually accomplishing it. She wouldn't even expect even most other magical heroes to understand it, save a select few.

    'You're the best person I've ever known, and you've always been a hero to me.'

    Madoka blushes brightly, and her smile brightens to match it. The sweet words don't even end there. "I feel the same way," she admits. It may seem empty to mimic the words, but she means them earnestly. "You've done so much for me and suffered so much, but there were always lines you were never willing to cross. Maybe you could have 'won' if you sacrificed all your morals, but you're too good a person to ever go so far. You were willing to go through so much just to make someone happy... I can't help but see you as a hero, too." Madoka leans in to briefly rest her forehead against Homura's, looking directly into her eyes with a soft expression, "And more than that, you'll always be my hero."

    She may have plenty of practice dancing by now, but Madoka is still a novice at leading in dance. Homura is skilled enough to make up for it and looks radiant while doing so. Madoka admires the sweep of her dress and the gorgeous way her hair moves behind her. She makes up her mind- if she ever leads in dance again she's going to spin Homura even more. Looking down at Homura from above is an amusing perspective she doesn't get often, but Madoka focuses on kissing her rather than the novelty of it.

    When called dashing Madoka giggles enough she nearly loses her place in the dancing, "M-me? Dashing?" It's a word she'd never even consider herself for even though she's placed the very same compliment for her gallant girlfriend several times. Though it's clear she's affected and a little embarrassed by the compliment she playfully adds, "You're just trying to get more kisses from me, aren't you?"

    She slinks closer, dancing up close with Homura despite the tempo, "If you want those all you have to do is ask~"

Homura Akemi has posed:
    Controlling cars, ships, and so on. Homura has learned quite a few tricks along the way, now that she thinks about it, hasn't she? "I don't know. I mean, I tend to use vehicles as disposable. I suppose I could be driving while you focus more on enemies, but labyrinths aren't always good places to drive around, and driving one limits my attack options. Still, if you do want to protect people, then we can't plan around fighting in labyrinths all the time. There are times when it'd be useful, but they're very situational. Still, it might be good to try things, just so we know ahead of time what will work and what won't."

    Her eye shifts off to the side, not really looking at anything as most of her attention is on Madoka, but she's also considering. "If there was something you wanted to carry into battle, that is something that I can do. I tend to keep a lot of emergency supplies with me, as well as Grief Seeds. Plus you know... weapons." She considers, for a moment, before looking back at Madoka. "If you have ideas, I'd be open to them."

    Homura sees a lot of various kinds of expectations that people place upon romance, and many seem to think that their expectations are global, spanning not only regions but also all of human history. Homura thinks that they are wrong about this, and it's also wrong for people to project their expectations on someone else's relationship. There are vast differences in the dynamics between Madoka and Homura, Mamoru and Usagi, Kyouko and Sayaka, Amu and Tadase, and to treat them as 'all the same' is to fail to understand what a relationship really is: a special bond between two unique individuals.

    Homura doesn't much care about the social expectations as they apply to all romance, which are constantly changing no matter how much people want to act like they are global and universal and eternal, so much as she cares about whether or not Madoka and Homura are enjoying the relationship that they're having right now, as that's the only romance that's really any of her business, and it's not anyone's business other than Homura's and Madoka's. If Homura ever hesitates to show love in front of someone, it's mostly because of that: It's really no one else's business.

    Of course, that's also a very loner mentality, pushing people out of your affairs instead of including them, and thereby not giving them a chance to interfere. It's not something that Homura cares -that- much about so much as it is a formed habit that is difficult to unlearn.

    Well, it might also be the business of their parents, but really that's heavily dependant on the relationship with their parents, too. Madoka might consider it Junko's business. Homura's mother? Not so much. At least not in the same way. Someone who only ever calls on your birthday doesn't get the same amount of input as someone who speaks with you every morning, inquires about your life, and offers sound advice.

    ... and that's the reason Homura Akemi flaunts 'the rules' in order to do things like sit next to Madoka in dates and feed her ice cream. Because that's their relationship and that's what they like to do. She really doesn't give a damn if someone like Kyouko accuses her of being shameless, especially since it's... well, you know. Kyouko, who has no room to talk. It doesn't really matter to her if people don't understand. People by and large have never understood her anyways.

    '... you'll always be my hero.'

    Now Homura is blushing again. Being told by someone you love and admire that you're their hero... even if she isn't surprised, it's still very flattering. "We do mimic each other's words a lot, but I think it's because a lot of the times we both feel the same way. We're always saving each other, so I guess we both get to play the hero once in awhile."

    Homura smiles up at Madoka's reaction. "I used to feel the same way when people called me that, but I can't think of a better word for it." Madoka accuses her of just wanting more kisses, and Homura only giggles. "That's not the reason, but..." She leans forward for a kiss. "... I'll always be happy..." Kiss. "... to get more kisses..." Kiss. "... from my dashing and heroic girlfriend." Kiss.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Madoka would look upward towards the ceiling, but being the lead in dancing means she has to focus a bit more on what's happening around them, even if she's in the midst of conversation and thought. "Actually... vehicles don't tend to survive long, but if we're both in or on the same one it means you can stop time for both of us at the same time, right? And for anyone else that was with us, too." She gets a funny look on her face, and Homura can feel her shake a little as she tries to hold back laughter a few moments before she fails. After she recovers she explains, "If you were driving a boat I could water ski behind while time was stopped!" Which probably doesn't have any practical combat applications at all but is a very amusing mental picture.

    As for things she'd carry into battle? "I think you already carry medical supplies... that's the most important thing I can think of. I wonder if you could fit a whole clinics worth in there? Not that I really know how to do much more than basic first aid." She was seriously stretching her knowledge thin when Walpurgisnacht attacked. "I guess it wouldn't hurt if you carried around a spare change of clothes for me as well?" There aren't a terribly large number of weapons Madoka can see herself using, especially not ones Homura couldn't use better herself.

    When it comes to people's expectations of a romantic couple in public it's as much about what's expected of them not to do as much as what it's expected that they will do. Kyouko's reaction to the couple making out in the arcade's ice cream parlor is a good example, but Madoka's parents potentially seeing them there instead might be a more palatable one. The simple fact is that they're far closer and their relationship is both longer and deeper than anyone would ever expect of a pair of fourteen year olds. Homura has longer memories after meeting Madoka than Madoka currently has of being alive considering she doesn't remember being two years old.

    Their relationship has built up and changed for an incredibly long time. Even in this timeline alone they'd become incredibly close before dating was even considered a possibility. While it could easily look to an outsider that they're little more than hormonal teenagers fawning over each other their relationship is deep and complex; that they're able to enjoy such depth and complexity while still in the full blush of youth is a minor miracle in itself.

    Homura may have long ago decided she doesn't care about other people's opinions but Madoka tends to care a lot about what people think of her. In this particular case she, for once, simply doesn't trust their ability to judge for themselves properly because how could they possibly? Of course if she thought people were judging their actual romance rather than the impoliteness of their public affections her opinion would be right alongside Homura's- it simply isn't any of their business.

    Besides, if someone can't understand just how fun it is to share ice cream with your beloved while sharing kisses right alongside it Madoka would have to question their judgment on romantic matters in the first place.

    Madoka's returning of the flattering compliment puts a blush on Homura's face, and this one she allows herself to enjoy fully. She's glad her girlfriend took it to heart; not only does she deserve it but now she knows exactly how flattered Madoka felt upon receiving it herself. "We're different in a lot of ways, but we're very similar in many others." She giggles a little before smiling brightly, "I guess that means we get to be heroes together, too!"

    Words are spoken and a number of kisses are exchanged, each one returned in full. "Mmm. And I'll always be happy to give them to my dearest love and partner." She places several kisses in succession on Homura's lips, quick at first but slowing down and lingering longer. After the final, longest one Madoka looks at Homura with half-open eyes, a small smile creeping onto her lips.

    She slows the pace of their dancing as the music changes again, rubbing Homura's back. She moves in to kiss again, but instead presses it to her cheek where she was blushing. "Hehe..." She looks fondly into her girlfriends eyes, only to reach up and brush her fingers over where she just kissed, "You're so adorable when you're blushing, Homura-chan. When you get shy you look so sweet and cute that I can hardly stand it."

    She's definitely teasing, but not to be mean. Giggling softly she leans her head in and brushes the tip of her nose against Homura's, making a quiet sound before reaching up to gently strum her fingers through those long locks of silky black hair.

Homura Akemi has posed:
    "Water ski while--" Homura imagines that for a moment, and then can't help but giggle. It's not something she would have ever thought of, that's for sure. "If you did that, you'd kick up waves and then the waves would be frozen in time. At least until you touched them again." Maybe she can't think of a practical application for that, but it's not like they're exactly facing conventional enemies here.

    A spare change of clothes? Homura nods. "I can do that easily. I could also put a lot of medical supplies in there, but I wouldn't really know how to use them, and I'd feel bad taking them if I couldn't even use them properly. In away the Grief Seeds are kindof like medical supplies in themselves, since our magic can be used to heal." The main reason why Homura doesn't bring up weapons is that she's pretty sure Madoka's bow is better than any mundane weapon, even enchanted. Although... "... We could also start storing some melee weapons. They won't last long in battle. They'll end up like my golf club, more than likely. They'd be more like a backup in case something gets too close for our ranged weapons, and we'd have to enchant them for them to have any effect."

    "Aside from that we'd have to consider what happens if we get separated. You still should keep some things on your person, Grief Seeds at the very least, in case we can't reach each other."

    There's a lot that can be said about how easily brushed off their romance could be, and Madoka isn't wrong to suspect that people wouldn't understand it. From an adult's point of view, they've seen many relationships come together and fall apart, and when people are young and inexperienced their minds are full of stories of romance and love, and there's very little real experience to temper them.

    Sometimes the passion fades and the two people realize that there isn't much of a relationship actually there. Sometimes they realize that they really don't have much in common, or the chemistry is off. Sometimes the fights pile up and don't get resolved. Sometimes people just outright lie about their intentions. That last part isn't going to be a problem for these two, as looking directly into each other's minds would have revealed that if it were true, but how can they explain that closeness when they can't even explain magic?

    Aside from that, Madoka and Homura wouldn't be the first teens to think that their love was the exception and not the rule.

    Homura can't help but feel warm and happy when Madoka calls her 'my dearest love and partner'. "I like being your partner, Madoka-chan. I like being that close to you. I like the idea of being heroes with you, too. If we have to deal with that part of life, then there's no one else I'd rather have along with me."

    The kisses come, and Homura is more than happy to have them. They are wonderful and sweet, and if dancing weren't so second nature to her by now she might forget to move her feet. While she's still in a blissful daze, Madoka kisses her on the cheek and touches her there, complimenting her shyness. Homura blushes harder. "W-well, I mean. It's so overwhelming sometimes. How I feel. I mean, I like it, but it's so much. If that makes me look cute to you, well, that's all the better."

    As Madoka leans in, Homura lightly brushes her nose against Madoka's. Homura's hair is still soft and silky, though the curlyness of it does add a bit of stringiness as Madoka runs her fingers through it.

Madoka Kaname has posed:
    Kicking up waves frozen in time sounds like it'd be pretty, though without much combat purpose. Most likely anything they would fight that would allow for water skiing wouldn't have some kind of vulnerability to water.

    "Good," Madoka says with a smile to the extra clothes, nodding after a moment of thought about the medical supplies. That... is the other half of it, isn't it? It's not good to take things that are so important. There's a reason Madoka returned the medical kit she got from the hospital once the fight with Walpurgisnacht was over. "I wouldn't want to be without a Grief Seed in a battle, just in case," she agrees readily. Melee weapons? "Maybe some kind of sword or something else sharp enough to cut ropes with." Her arrow did work last time, but relied heavily upon Homura's being able to stop time in order to do it quickly enough.

    It is true that teenagers might have a tendency to declare their own love and romance unique and special. On the other hand if what Homura and Madoka have been through was completely normal and average the world would be a much different place.

    Warm and happy is a good thing to make her girlfriend feel. "I'm happy we get to share so much of our lives with each other. Getting to protect people together is a wonderful feeling, and I wouldn't trust anyone more than you to keep me safe."

    Even for the two of them it would be a bit odd if Madoka and Homura were to stop dancing in the middle of the dance floor to simply embrace each other and kiss. Perhaps between songs it wouldn't be so bad, but Madoka has come to enjoy dancing so much that such a breach in dance floor etiquette would embarrass her greatly, and not necessarily in the fun way. Embracing and kissing while dancing, on the other hand, is completely fair game. Obviously.

    The good-natured teasing has the intended effect, and Madoka is nearly beside herself with how cute Homura looks. She doesn't want to completely overwhelm her though, so she doesn't tease any further, at least not intentionally. "Sometimes my heart beats fast just from the way you look at me. I'm happy I can make you feel that way sometimes, too." She pulls her fingers from Homura's hair to keep from uncurling it too much, only to hug completely onto Homura, rocking from side to side to the music. "I really do love you, Homura-chan. I'm so happy we've made it this far together, and I'm excited to think there can be so many more nights like tonight. Happy Anniversary."

Homura Akemi has posed:
    "I think the most pragmatic use that comes to mind, with vehicles, is if we had to evacuate people. I could drive while you keep us safe. It doesn't come up every time, but I've been in more than one situation where a friend needed to be carried away." At least, that's what comes to Homura's mind. Even still, she's never had to evacuate while under fire before, but maybe the only reason she didn't was because she didn't consider it an option.

    Homura nods at what Madoka says next. "Yeah, just... I can justify stealing from gangsters because that stuff doesn't belong to them, and I can justify... borrowing from the military because I'm still using it to defend Japanese soil. People who aren't fighting don't need weapons as badly as those who do. However, when it comes to something like medical supplies, even if I ripped them off of some black market traders... there are other people who need them just as badly."

    Homura rolls her eyes, mostly annoyed at herself more than anything. "Sorry, we just can't seem to avoid unromantic topics, and this one I'm sure is my own fault. I guess that's just the life we lead. I wish things were all dances and ice cream, but that's just not the way of things."

    "Still, I enjoy the time we spend together. I do think something we can cut ropes with is a good idea. I can keep a variety of knives and swords with me. Maybe some saws. Maybe a chainsaw, for when we have a chance to make cuts far away from whoever we'd want to save."

    Homura can't help but continue feeling happy as her beloved says such sweet things to her. "I'm always happy to keep you safe, and I couldn't think of anyone I trust as much as you. Not only do I get to keep the person I love most safe and happy, but I get to be with you as you live out your dreams, and even help. It really means a lot to me, that I get to spend my time that way."

    Homura wouldn't want to stop dancing outright, not unless they were actually done, but she's more than happy to do other things like kissing and hugging during the dance. "I look forward to more happiness like this, too. I'm so happy that I get to share this with you, Madoka-chan. Happy Anniversary."