View source for 1134/A Finger Lickin' Good Conversation

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2016/03/02
|Location=Plot Room #1
|Synopsis=Madoka goes over to Homura's house for a sleepover and brings a bucket of KFC with her and the two have a long talk about goals, their feelings for each other, and an exciting new project. Chicken is eaten, kittens are petted, and eventually the two run along to snuggle.
|Cast of Characters=8,23
|pretty=yes
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{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The last several days had been filled with homework, volunteering, and witch hunting for Madoka, which meant when there was finally a time to relax and take it easy she'd quickly asked into and set up a sleepover at Homura's house. She brought along a set of light pink pajamas with a bow on the collar and the loose, ruffled edges she likes so much, kept in a small bag to keep it clean.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She brought food with her as well, though this time it isn't her fathers cooking. Instead she'd stopped at KFC and gotten a bucket of fried chicken, original recipe of course, oblivious to any connotations the delicious, finger lickin' good meal has besides reminding her a bit of Christmas.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's the type of meal her father would never cook himself for his family, at least not without significant changes, and so the extra fatty fried food and the delicious scent wafting out of the red and white bucket has her nearly drooling in anticipation. Many paper towels are on standby as Madoka reaches into the bucket and pulls out a still hot chicken wing, looking it over before saying, "Itadakimasu!" and taking a bite out of it. A happy, "Mmm," escapes her as she enjoys the greasily satisfying food.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After taking her first bite she looks around a little before giggling, "I bet Amy's going to be running over as soon as she smells it! A little bit of the meat should be fine for her, right?"

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura is dressed lightly for the meal, wearing only a simple blouse and shorts. She has her pajamas in her room: a pastel violet outfit with a faint pattern of purple flowers. She was more than happy to have Madoka over for a sleepover, because when is she not? However, she does seem a bit tired right now. She had the same homework that Madoka did, and even if she's had a decade's worth of study time ahead of other students, doing the actual work is still tedious.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not to mention, she's had a few other things on her mind.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She blinks when she sees the bucket of KFC, giving Madoka a version of her blank stare that manages to be more confused and somehow still a bit warmer. When it occurs to her that Madoka doesn't know about the KFC youma, Homura puts a hand over her mouth to giggle as she waves her into the dining room.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There are of course paper towels, napkins, and even plates should Madoka or Homura desire a place to put their bones. Homura has provided drinks: soda for herself and a choice of juice, soda, or water for Madoka. She stares one more time at the fried chicken in her hand before shaking her head and biting into it.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It really ''is'' finger-lickin' good, especially if she can share it with Madoka.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Better to peel the meat off of the bone before you give it to her. If she eats the bone it can splinter, but the meat itself is fine." Homura answers somewhat tiredly, but she turns to smile softly at Madoka. "I'm sure she'll come running, if she hasn't smelled it already. She likes you, you know."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura starts eating the chicken in earnest. She's always been kind of a junk food nut, especially since she doesn't like to cook. It's a skill that she might be determined to learn one day, but not today.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As for Amy, she's a bit subtle about making her presence known. Madoka might feel her small furry body brushing against Madoka's leg.

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka doesn't know quite what to make of Homura's guarded expression, especially when she ends it with a giggle. It nets the dark haired girl a curious look as she sets the bucket down on the table before taking a seat, choosing one next to Homura because of course she does. Since there are plates she'll use one for her bones alongside the napkins. She also indulges herself a little to some fizzy cola alongside the chicken, thinking the fizzy bubbles might help keep the grease levels down in her mouth.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Right," she agrees with a small nod, "No chicken bones for kitties or doggies. Especially not sweet one's like Amy!" She then adds with a smile, "I like her, too." She gives Homura herself a look along with a knowing smile when she sees that tiredness.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She eats her chicken wing in quick bites, but the bites themselves are small enough to almost be nibbles- a silly mix of chowing down and savoring it. When she feels Amy brushing against her leg Madoka cleans her hand off with a paper towel just in case and then reaches down to pet her, scritching the top of her head before brushing her hand down her neck and over her back, teasing her tail a bit with her finger. A moment later she tears off a small bit of dark meat from her chicken wing and offers it to her.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It looks like we're both ready to go relax once we're done eating," she says to her girlfriend with a soft smile, having to resist the urge to yawn at the mention of it.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It takes a moment for Homura to register the curious look in Madoka's eyes, as well as what it means. When she does, she tilts her head, looks down at the bucket and wonders how to explain it. "It's kindof a long story. Endymion... well, Mamoru when he was brainwashed, he uh... he sent out a fried chicken youma. It was really gross and he was cutely embarrassed about the whole thing. I think that was the first time he showed himself, actually. I mean... after the fake death."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura nods as Madoka agrees not to feed Amy bones. She probably already knew that, but it's better for Homura to feel silly by telling Madoka what she already knows than spend magic trying to fix Amy after no one said anything. When she notices Madoka's knowing smile, she grins sheepishly. "I guess maybe I've been working too hard. I've had a lot on my mind."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura watches as Madoka feeds Amy, not because she's concerned but because seeing her little angel feed her little kitten is the most adorable thing ever. Amy herself loves the pettings and keeps brushing against Madoka's leg, happily taking a bit of meat as its offered to her.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Huh?" Homura says in response to Madoka about relaxing. After a moment she says, "Oh. Yeah. Sorry. I guess I am a bit tired." She eats a bit more of the delicious greasy meat before going on. "I guess I've been thinking about getting the business going that I was talking about. I think I can make a lot of money by using my magic to salvage ships. It'd probably be something that people would appreciate. Regaining what they've lost, I mean."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka's eyes go to the bucket of chicken as Homura explains, lifting her hand after a few moments to giggle into it, "A monster made of fried chicken? That sounds like it must have been either very silly or mouthwatering." Judging by Homura's initial reaction it's probably not the second one.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It is much better to be safe than sorry. Even if magic could be used to keep anything too terrible from happening to Amy it doesn't mean it wouldn't be a horrible experience. The cute kitten gets more pets and rubs as she eats the piece of chicken handed to her, and after a moment Madoka notices Homura looking at her, looking over her way and smiling.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mentions of working too hard and being tired gets even more sympathetic looks from the pink-haired girl, and she reaches over to give a light rub to Homura's back through her blouse. Afterwards she's finishing off her chicken wing and rooting around the bucket for a drumstick, setting her chicken bones on the plate. "It's okay, Homura-chan. Even if we're both tired I'm happy to get to spend time with you." With a little giggle she notes, "I'm not sure there's anyone I'd rather spend time with when I'm tired."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mention of the business perks her up a bit and she turns her head over towards Homura, "Really? I think that would be a great idea, Homura-chan. If you're wanting to actually start it up soon I'd be happy to help."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A slightly playful giggle and she leans her shoulder against Homura's for a moment, "I wasn't only joking about being your personal secretary, you know," she offers in a teasing tone.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura chuckles. It's a tired chuckle, but heartfelt none the less. "Oh it was very silly. At the time I was grossed out, but looking back it's really funny. Also gives me something to tease Mamo-kun about." Another bite of chicken. After swallowing she adds, "... not very mouthwatering, though." Homura distinctly recalls vomiting, actually.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura smiles as Madoka shows her sympathy. It's clear they're both pretty tired, but that's okay, right? They enjoy each other's company and are comfortable with each other. That's what matters. "Yeah... I'm happy to spend time with you too, Madoka-chan. If we're going to be tired then at least we can still be in each other's company."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka mentions being happy to help, and Homura takes a moment to respond, picking bits of her food apart and sneaking them to Amy under the table. The cat passes between the two of them, and when the kitty brushes against their legs they can feel her purring.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think I would like to work with you, Madoka-chan... but you should know, I'm not planning on it being just another company. It will have a non-magical front, and it will be framed in a way that people won't find anything suspicious about what we do, but I want it to be..." Homura pauses to consider the words before she says them, smiling at the mention of Madoka being her personal secretary.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then she says what's on her mind. "I want an alternative to Eclipse. An alternative that doesn't hire people like Riventon. Virtue has their heart in the right place, but as far as I understand it's not a company, it's a circle of friends that happens to have resources. People need to get paid. They need to make a living, and sometimes a person's best talents are magical."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura shrugs, taking a bite out of her drumstick and chewing it. "With even one of those ships salvaged, I could have enough money for a decent startup, but there's a limit to how much I can get from that. In order to make it maintainable, I'd probably need to get into the construction business. Now's a good time for that."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She places her now bare bone on the plate, having ripped off a decent chunk of breaded meat and fed it to Amy.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"As for the magical side of it... well, we'd specialize in fighting magical threats, but I'd also want to have support staff on call. People like Iris Shelby, for example."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura considers for a moment, claiming a wing and slowly tearing it apart in her hand. "As for your role, well, you can be my secretary if you want, but I don't want you to just be the girl who takes my messages or whatever. I'd you to have a significant amount of agency and influence within the company. I mean... if you're comfortable with that."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Grossed out makes the silly youma a bit less so. She peeks down to the piece of chicken in her hand and wonders what it might be like if it became enormous and started chasing her around. ...ok, no, that's actually silly enough that Madoka giggles into her hand again. Then she takes a bite of her chicken as 'punishment'. "It's good you have something to lighten the mood with Mamoru-kun with. He probably needs things like that after so long."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka nods happily to Homura's assessment, "I like being around you even when I'm asleep." Maybe it's just in her head but it feels like she sleeps better next to her girlfriend. Perhaps it has to with how relaxed she is when they get to snuggle each other to sleep.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After a bit more of feeding Amy Madoka begins to wonder how much greasy meat a cat should actually have. Regular chicken is one thing, but fried? She doesn't want to give the poor kitten a tummy ache! Amy will receive more pets and less food from now on unless she starts begging.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A company with a magical and a nonmagical side? That makes sense considering she'd be using her powers to salvage sunken ships, but as Homura explains further she understands better.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka turns a bit more serious as she talks about being an alternative to Eclipse for people with magical talents. Almost the first thing she wonders is how Eclipse itself will take that, but she doesn't want to her first reaction to be a bad one. "That sounds wonderful, Homura-chan. There are probably a lot of people who want to put their talents to use, but might get upset if their work ends up causing more harm than good. It's really sweet of you to think of giving people like that a way to make a living."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She nods a little as Homura talks about the actual specifics of how she might get things rolling, eating more of her chicken while she has the chance. "That's what Mama was saying," she agrees about construction work.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then when Homura tells her she'd like her to have influence and a real role to play Madoka blushes softly. She sets her chicken down and wipes her hands on another napkin before leaning over and hugging the black-haired Puella from the side, holding onto it for several moments before talking. "I'd like that very much, Homura-chan. It means a lot to me that you'd want to be such a part of it." Her own magical talents are rather specialized and not in a way that lends well to managing businesses, salvaging ships, or construction work. If Homura wants her to have a significant role to play it's because of her ideas and people skills most likely, and it makes her happy that she'd have such a high opinion of them.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I like to tease him... but I have to say... when he found out I quit WPS? He said he was ''proud'' of me." Homura shakes her head. "Is that something to be proud of? Maybe. I guess. All I know is that it was the right choice, for a number of reasons."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura sure sleeps better with Madoka nearby. Just being able to know, at any given time, that Madoka is safe and alive provides far more security than any amount of armaments, guards, or comforting blankets ever could. Plus cuddling is a very nice bonus, and being around Madoka makes her feel complete.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy is probably full by now, and doesn't ask for any more food. She's lying down on Madoka's feet, curling around her ankles. Amy has been trained not to walk on the table, though it might jump into Madoka's lap if invited.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura blushes a little when her girlfriend says that her idea is sweet. She's too tired to really think of a response right away, so Madoka gets to see a few moments of her cheeks being red. She nods as she hears of Junko's agreement, because really when someone like Junko says it then it means that Homura is probably on the right track here. After Madoka says that it means a lot that Homura would think highly of what she has to offer, the black-haired girl smiles at her again.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think, as a general rule, you gain more by helping society flourish than you do from, say, trying to drain money out of it." Homura flips her hand in the air as she speaks. "For example, building a hospital might cost a lot of money, but if you find yourself getting hurt then you'll be glad that it's around and well staffed by experienced people. Funding a better school means better employees in the future, better advances in technology, and even better leaders. If you make the world better, then you find yourself living in a better world."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After a moment she realizes that she's rambling about something kind of irrelevant, and so stops herself. Then she gets more to the point. "I guess what I'm trying to say is that you're very skilled at knowing what's good for people, and that's something I think I'll need. I want the people working for me to be taken care of, and I don't know how to do that. I'm not... really that nurturing, but you are. I want that kind of attitude to be a part of the soul of the company, and even codified in its policies."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka's soft pink eyes focus on Homura with a kind look in them that she's seen many times before, and she reaches over to squeeze one of Homura's hands. "It's always something to be proud of if you're doing something hard because you think it's right. I'm sure he's also proud of you for wanting to work for yourself. I am!" She has told Homura she thinks she makes a good leader several times.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Having Homura next to her always makes Madoka feel very safe. Part of it is the fact Homura has legitimately saved her so many times, but it's also a more personal kind of safety; Homura always accepts her for who she is and is never anything close to mean to her.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Amy curls around her ankles Madoka tickles the kittens tummy with her toes, having taken her shoes off at the door when she came inside. Any playful pawing at she'll take in stride, though she may eep a bit of her antics draw a love bite.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Blushing begets blushing and Madoka enjoys the color on the other girl's cheeks as they talk and her eyes get a little lovey-dovey. Homura sure can look cute when she's shy; Madoka is silently appreciative for having a girlfriend who can be dashing, beautiful and cute at different times. So many types of pretty all wrapped up in one lovely package.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura offers a pragmatic view on why being good to people and building important infrastructure and providing services can mean benefits for yourself. Madoka giggles a little, though nods in agreement. "'If you make the world better, then you find yourself living in a better world.' I like that. I like it a lot, actually. If everybody thought like that the world would be an amazing place."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Some specifics are gone into about what Madoka would bring to the table and it's her turn to wear red cheeks as the kind opinion is spoken about her. Then a moment of embarrassment, "Well... I don't really know very much about codifying policies, but I'd be happy to help try to make your company have a happy and nurturing environment. A lot of that is trying to think of what people are going to need ahead of time, but it's also about letting them know you care about and appreciate them individually. You do that very well for me all the time, Homura-chan."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She gets coy for a brief moment, tilting her head down and blushing a bit more before looking up to Homura through her eyelashes, "Like singing songs for me. That isn't something you'd do for just anyone, but it's very nurturing."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura blushes a bit harder as Madoka says she's proud of her, too. The way her friends and girlfriend speak of her stands in pretty stark contrast to the insecurities that she still occasionally wrestles with. Madoka's opinion of her is probably the one that Homura considers most important, so it helps. "That really means alot to me, Madoka-chan, that you're proud of me."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy wiggles and rolls around as her tummy is tickled by Madoka's toes! No love bites come, but the kitten does roll on her back and mew. Her tail lightly baps against Madoka's foot.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seeing those lovey-dovey eyes gets even more shyness from Homura. Homura's starting to feel like maybe her nervousness isn't so overwhelming anymore, simply because experience helps her handle the feeling better. On the other hand, the feeling seems almost ''more'' potent in some ways, because she's fully processing the fact that it's the woman she ''loves'', more than anyone, who is currently looking at her with those eyes.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She nods in agreement to Madoka, saying, "Yeah, I think so, too. I know not everyone sees it that way, and there might be disagreements on what actually makes the world 'better', but it would still be a nice world to live in."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura shrugs as Madoka says she doesn't know much about codifying policies, and then gives Madoka something of a shy grin, even giggling a little. "Well, okay, but it's easy for me to do that because... Well you know, I can't... I mean. It's not the same."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She thinks it over, what Madoka's saying, and how that could relate to the company. "... though... I guess that makes sense. It's not enough to keep them in a good position. They have to know they're in a good position, that they are valued and have job security and so on."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"But..." Homura points, somewhat lazily, at Madoka. "Don't worry about not knowing how to codify things. I can do that, probably. To an extent. There's only so much you can do with a rule, but they can still help support a certain kind of environment. Part of the benefit of working together is not needing to know every little thing."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After a moment, she giggles. "... still, I'm glad you liked me singing! You sent me music to support me when I was depressed, so I guess that was my eventual response...." Her hands awkwardly fidget with each other. "I liked your singing, too, by the way. You were really cute."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka smiles to Homura, "I'm very proud of you. I know it must be hard for you to look forward and find something new to dedicate yourself to. You spent so long preparing for your fight against Walpurgisnacht that it must hard not having a goal. Maybe not right away since we've spent so much time together, but you've been so driven for so long that it must be a big change. So something like this, founding your own company- I think it's a very good decision. So, yes! I'm very proud of you for it, and I'll do everything I can to support you."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A stocking foot teases Amy's tummy some more as she rolls around on her back and swings her tail around. After eating a bit more chicken Madoka bends down and scoops the kitten up and holds her against her chest, rubbing at the back of her neck with two fingers while feeling her pur.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka's heart is usually worn on her sleeve, and as Homura's mannerisms get a little more shy Madoka's expression shifts to contain twenty-percent more 'Aww!' while the lovey-dovey look shines a bit more clearly in her eyes. Looks can say so much, and even as they talk about other things the one she's giving Homura says 'I really do love you'.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Even Madoka has seen enough to know that the world can't be a completely perfect place, "That's true. There might even be fights over whose 'better' is the best, but if everyone really is trying to make things better and no one was trying to only look out for themselves I think it would be a very nice world to live in." Even that is probably a pipe dream, but maybe it's a dream worth working towards and fighting for? "There's something I've heard people say before, 'be the change you want to see'. That sounds like what you're trying to do, Homura-chan. It's what I want to do, also."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A soft giggle is made when Homura mentions it's not the same for her to treat Madoka with such care as it is for everyone else. "You don't have to do that much. Little things like remembering peoples birthdays, getting to know a little about them and their friends or families, I think that goes a long way in a workplace. It's that way in the hospital; almost all the nurses know each other and if something good happens to one of them everyone celebrates, even if it's not together. That's why they're always so nice and friendly! Everyone also knows which doctors really care and which ones just want to make money." A little sigh because there certainly are doctors like that even at Mitakihara General.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She looks upwards thoughtfully while petting Amy a bit absentmindedly, tilting her head for a moment, "Maybe there is one thing I can say about rules. Don't make any you don't really believe in. It's one thing to have a rule, but it's another to believe that the way you're doing things are right. If the rules make sense and they're the right thing to do and you believe that people will follow them. It's like... the difference between telling people they have to smile and people smiling on their own." She stops looking at the ceiling and turns her gaze back to Homura, "Does that make sense?" Madoka hopes she isn't just blabbering about nothing.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Homura responds to her comment about singing she smiles softly, "It was very nice- I wasn't expecting that at all! I worked really hard to try and do something just as nice for you. I'm glad you liked my singing, too." She blushes and scoots to the edge of her seat, "Those sweet things you sang... you really meant them, didn't you? I know I meant mine." She reaches out and abandons one petting hand from poor Amy to try and take hold of one of Homura's.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura drywashes her hands under the table, looking down at her plate as she considers. "Yeah... having a goal gave me a shield. I could always press on, and avoid giving in, because I still had something I could do. It wasn't insurmountable, either. Walpurgisnacht was defeatable... I just had to figure out how to do it in a way that didn't bring you to harm. Losing that..." Homura trails off, looking at her plate. Purple eyes turn towards Madoka and Homura's lips smile. "... it's okay now though. I have you to thank for that, and I have something else to hold onto. Something that won't go away."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She reaches out to touch Madoka's hand, squeezing it. "Thank you for being proud of me, Madoka-chan."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy happily allows herself to be scooped up by the food-bringer and affection-giver known as Madoka, purring sweetly in her arms. She softly butts her head against Madoka, settling in for more pettings. Homura reaches over to scratch Amy behind the ears.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While petting Amy, Homura's eyes catch sight of Madoka's again. That look means a lot to her. No matter how tough she tries to be, she really does feel meek under that gaze. She manages a timid smile, as if to thank Madoka, and to say, 'I love you, too. So much.'<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To be the change she wishes to see. Yeah, Homura would have to agree with that. She nods as Madoka speaks. "Every change needs a catalyst. Someone has to take the first step, and be that first push. If you believe strongly in something then it's your responsibility to make it happen." That may be a severe way of putting it, but Homura's usually only soft around a small handful of people, present company being among them. "I don't think I would've come this far if I had simply waited around for someone else to make things better, and if there's something you'd like to do then I'd be honored to be a part of that."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What Madoka says about taking care of people is... interesting. It makes sense, but it's something Homura hasn't really been good at. She tries her best a lot of the time, but her best has never really been sufficient. She supposes it's not too late to learn. "Alright. Remember their birthdays, know about their friends and family... celebrate along with them. That's good advice. You've actually taught me a lot, this time around, through both your actions and your words. I wouldn't mind continuing to learn from you, in regards to things like that."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So... don't make a rule you don't believe in? "Yeah, I could agree with that, actually." She reaches for a napkin, wiping the grease off of her hands. "Another thing is... don't make a rule that you yourself wouldn't want to follow. If you can't follow your own rules, then it's not fair to impose them on others. Hypocrisy is at its worst when it's enforced upon others."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura reaches for her soda, but her hand freezes when Madoka asks about the songs. "Well yeah... I meant them. Especially the first two. I picked those two because they reminded me of you. The third one I picked because it was from a story about time travel and that amused me, but I felt it still fit."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka nods to Homura and returns her smile when she says it's okay and she has something to hold onto. She has a feeling she knows what that something is as Homura squeezes her hand. "You're welcome, Homura-chan. Thanks for making me proud!"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy is given lots of pets and scritches as Madoka holds her gently with one hand, and she watches her reaction as Homura reaches over to pet her also. Who doesn't love a happy kitten?<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You have a responsibility to make the things you believe in happen? Madoka gets a slightly embarrassed look and studies the cute kitten in her hands even more for a few moments. That statement is one Madoka believes, but after having Homura doing everything she could to keep her from doing exactly that for so long... well it was Madoka herself that asked her to do it though, so it's not like she blames her. It just sounds funny for a moment. Then again Madoka's uncompromising adherence to her beliefs -is- one of the things Homura told her she always liked about her. "No, that's true. You only got what you wanted because you worked so hard to get it." She then looks back up to Homura and gives her a happy, genuine smile, "You already are a part of it, Homura-chan."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka smiles again as Homura takes her words to heart, "A lot of it is little things like that, and just letting people know you think they're doing a good job and appreciate them. I'm glad I'm able to help you! And I'm happy to keep helping you as much as I can."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy gets lifted up and petted a bit more before being gently set back down onto the ground, and Madoka takes a sip of her thus far neglected soda afterwards. She then gives a nod to Homura, "Yes! That's why they're rules you should believe in. If people see you not following the rules they'll think they don't have to follow them either, or even worse that they're only there to look good in a brochure and that you don't even really care at all."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka blinks a little at Homura's reaction to her question. She had asked in an almost rhetorical manner... but it seems Homura is nervous about answering? "Hehe... they're very sweet. You're very sweet, especially to me." Her reasons for setting Amy down become clear as she reaches over to rub Homura's back again for a moment before reaching up to draw a lock of her long hair between her fingers. It seems she wants to pet her girlfriend now, instead!

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura took it onto her own shoulders to save Madoka, and she dedicated significant time and energy to that task. She ''was'' trying to be the change she wished to see in the world, because she ''did'' believe that Madoka deserved better than the fate she got. Maybe Madoka was okay sacrificing herself like that, but Homura wasn't okay with losing her. Really, Homura's talking about herself when she says that, though she does think it's good advice.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura still doesn't think that Madoka would want to die if she could avoid it, so her efforts weren't worthless, even if parts of her mission were a bit misguided. Madoka is alive now, and that does validate her choice.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I did." Homura's voice sounds a bit harder than Madoka might be used to. "... and it was worth it. I don't regret it, and I resented anyone who stood in the way of that, even if I forgave them later." Homura feels a little guilty for putting it that harshly, but people really did make things difficult for her, and they did it out of ignorance. It bothers Homura to think that she did the same thing to Madoka, but she doesn't want to beat herself up about it either. "So... I guess I wouldn't really want to stay in your way. Not if it was really important to you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka says that Homura is already a part of that, and Homura can't help but be happy about that. She side-leans against Madoka, resting her head on hers as she enjoys a bit more fried chicken. "I'm glad. I like being a part of your life, Madoka-chan. You're so important to me. You do help me, a lot, and I don't think I'd be the person I am today without you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura sits up straight and looks Madoka in the eye. "Yeah. I mean... setting a rule and then not following it is a bad precedent. It's also important to not like... create a sort of unwritten classist system where the 'in' people can break the rules freely but the 'out' people get new rules created specifically to target them. As ridiculous as that sounds, I've seen it happen before and it's disgusting."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura's back is rubbed, and she leans against Madoka again, staying there as her hair is played with. "Every moment I spend with you is precious. If I'm sweet to you, it's only because I love and adore you so much."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka doesn't think Homura's words sound harsh at all because of the way they end. She -did- forgive them later, even after seeing everybody at their absolute worst. The fact she's able to move on now after seeing those things over and over is a credit to her. When she talks about not wanting to stay in Madoka's way the pink-haired girl gives her a smile, "We've both made a lot of mistakes but now that we know that's what they are we can be careful not to make the same ones in the past. I think one of the most important things is to make sure we tell each other what we want. If bad things happen when we're getting in each others way without knowing it we can make sure that doesn't happen anymore." Then with a soft giggle she adds, "Right now I just want to spend more time with you, Homura-chan."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When she's leaned against Madoka leans back, enjoying the closeness as her girlfriend eats some more of the food she brought over. She watches her pick the chicken up and for a moment wonders about feeding bites of it to her like they did with the sushi the other day, giggling a little to herself. With fried chicken that'd probably be more silly than romantic. "I know I wouldn't be who I am without you. I didn't know it was possible to care about one person so much."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her eyes turn to Homura's when she sits up straighter and listens to her, "We definitely don't want to make it so the people who are our friends can do whatever they want and not get in trouble. But... in a way there's really no helping a little bit of that, because you're the one who should be making most of the decisions. It is going to be a company, after all! Even if you let lots of people give you advice you'll be the one choosing what to do. That's a good thing, though, since it means we'll be following your vision!"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka smiles when her affection has the desired affect, leaning against Homura again, petting her hair and then running her fingers through it slowly. "I feel lucky to be loved and adored by you, Homura-chan. It makes me so happy to think that you feel that way about me. Anniversaries and holidays are fun, but to me every day I get to spend close to you is a celebration." She turns her head and gives Homura a soft kiss on the cheek, only to lean in a bit more and nuzzle the side of her head and her own cheek against her love's.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mistakes. Yeah, that's what Homura would call them. No matter how good she got at her mission, there were always more mistakes to make. She might've called the mission itself a mistake, but not really. Her desire was to get Madoka back, and to keep her alive. She did manage that, despite mistakes.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Yeah..." Homura reaches out to touch her glass of soda, absently fidgeting with it. "I think if we clearly communicate with each other, we can avoid things like that. It wasn't always easy to tell you things before, but now that it is I guess we should take advantage of that."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She smiles, and her eyes smile at Madoka. "I just want to spend time with you too, Madoka-chan."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She's surprised to hear Madoka say it, because... "Madoka-chan, you're the most caring person I know. I mean... well, maybe some people come close, but only in this timeline."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura frowns a bit slightly. It might be unavoidable? Well maybe, but... "I don't know. I mean, there's a difference between getting away with, say... showing up to work late, and getting away with something akin to stealing money from other employees. I will be making most of the decisions, and the company should be small enough that I can manage that, but even then I will still have to delegate things, and I'll need to make sure that the people I delegate to are trustworthy."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She lifts up her glass and swishes it around, watching the liquid move in the glass. "My vision, huh? Well, I want what a lot of other people want. I'm just organizing it and giving out a paycheck. It seems a bit ironic, though. Me being in charge of something like that, I mean."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Leaning against Madoka again, Homura smiles at the kiss. She nods, which has the effect of rubbing her cheek against Madoka. "I agree. Every day I spend with you is wonderful. I had no idea it could be this nice to be with you."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"There might be things that still might not be easy to talk about. I don't think you have to tell me everything, always either." Madoka thinks for a moment on what to say, "Only... we should let each other know if we have any big goals, like you're sharing with me now, or if there's anything that has us upset so we can be there for each other."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She smiles when Homura says she wants to spend time with her, enjoying the look in her girlfriends pretty purple eyes. Then she giggles a little at the surprise, "Maybe, but I love you so much that I want to be around you always. I don't think I've ever felt this strongly before. Of course I still care about other people, and all kinds of other things but... you're the most important."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura brings up a good point about having to trust the people she delegates to and Madoka nods a little, "That's true. You'll need to make sure the people who have a lot of control share your ideals, or at least are willing to accept them." She then gives a small shake of her head, "That's not really what I meant, though. I was just saying that someone has to be the boss, and that's you! Having a well thought out power structure is a good thin, especially when someone good is in charge." Maybe it's odd to hear Madoka talking like that, but one has to remember whose daughter she is. She actually knows quite a bit about the benefits of proper management!<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking of, Madoka giggles a little, "It doesn't seem ironic to me. I've always thought you'd make a good leader. You're really driven and I know you'll care a lot about the people who work under you, or else you wouldn't be so worried about doing it right and making sure everything is run fairly."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She lets out a little coo as Homura's nod has their cheeks brushing together some more, and while she keeps playing with Homura's hair she reaches across with her other arm to hug onto her, "You remind me a lot of Mama. She works very hard to make sure everything is running smoothly, too, and she also cares about her coworkers and the people she manages. I'm lucky to have such amazing women in my life."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Maybe there will be..." admits Homura. She's not willing to let herself think that everything will be smooth between them. "After all, we've already have had one major fight, but our relationship did survive that. Still, I don't expect you to tell me everything either. I just want you to know that I'm here if you need me, and I'd be more than happy to support your goals too."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura actually feels warm inside when Madoka says she loves her the most. It means a lot, because it's not as if Madoka doesn't already care about a lot of people. To Homura, it means more, because she's so loving alread. "Thank you, Madoka-chan. You're the most important to me, too. I guess we've both made that clear by now..."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'Someone has to be the boss, and that's you!'<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's true. I will be the boss. In a way that's the point of this. I'll be calling the shots. I think my goals are in everyone's best interest, and I think a lot of them will see it the same way, too."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura is still hesitant to call herself 'good', but then Madoka mentions that she ''is'' worried about doing things fairly and that ''is'' a good thing... She actually blushes a bit harder, unsure of how to respond. "Well... this is the way I've decided to be. It's not as if I didn't try it other ways. The other ways just don't work for me."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura reminds Madoka of Junko? Homura can only think of that as a compliment. "Your mother is so good at it that she's a bit scary, but if I'm reminding her of you then that's a good thing." Well, it's not as if Homura herself isn't scary sometimes. "I think you're amazing too, Madoka-chan. I'm glad you're starting to see just what you're capable of."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka nods a little. "There was, and I know I could have handled it better. You're right though; we did survive it, and maybe we even learned something that will help us if we ever fight like that again." With a little wink she adds, "Though I'd rather not. Hugging you and cuddling with you is so much better."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She blushes when Homura responds to her comment about her being the most important in kind. "We tell each other we love each other a lot, don't we? But... I like that. I think it's good. It always makes me happy and feel special when you tell me you love me and that I'm important to you. So even if you already know how much I love you, I'm going to keep reminding you."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Yes!" She then replies excitedly as Homura agrees that she'll be in charge. "I think your goals are wonderful, and I've already told you I'm proud that you're looking to make your own way. That's exactly what I've been trying to say; your goals are to help a lot of people, not just yourself, and having someone like that in charge of a company is a very good thing."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura's blush warms her cheek against Madoka's and she giggles a little more, pressing her cheek just a bit more firmly to feel that warmth. As to her actual words Madoka smiles, "Maybe, but it still makes me happy that this is how you want to do things from now on. Everyone has good and bad points, and does good and bad things from time to time. Besides, things were different back then and nothing ever gave you a reason to think a better way was possible."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She makes a little giggle, "I went with her to work for 'take your daughter to work day' once in America. She really is scary sometimes! Nobody thinks it's a good idea to stand up to her when she's right, and you should see what happens when people aren't doing their best and she knows it. Ehehe..." Homura can feel Madoka shiver a little against her for a moment. "But... I know how hard you work to get what you want, it's definitely a good thing."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka smiles when her girlfriend calls her amazing, relaxing as she sits close, "I really like being able to protect people from Witches and Youma. Every time we stop one It makes me think of people we saved, and how sad their families and friends would have been without them." She closes her eyes and lets out a soft sigh, "I know that even better now, having almost lost you once."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura giggles as Madoka winks at her. "I'd rather not fight either, but it gives me confidence to know that our relationship is durable." More durable than Homura herself is, or was, in any case. "Admittedly, cuddling and snuggling is a lot more fun. Getting to hunt Witches alongside you is nice, too. I think we could derive enjoyment from anything as long as we're doing it together. Cuddling especially."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"By all means! Keep reminding me!" Homura leans in to kiss Madoka, and then winks. "I'll keep reminding you, too. Because I do love you, and I want to communicate that love often, because I'm always in love with you. Being with you and being loved by you... it does more than make me happy. I feel fulfilled on a deep level. Sometimes it really does feel like you're my other half or something, and I'm not really complete without you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura's smile becomes a little bit whimsical. "To be honest, a lot of this is because of you. I don't want to do something that really upsets you or that you strongly object to, especially if you're going to be a part of it... You make me want to do better, and I can do better. I will, even. You really do drive me, in a lot of ways." She takes a sip of her soda, setting it down before continuing. "Though I'll admit, it'll be nice being able to do something that I won't have to be ashamed of."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura perks up as Madoka mentions having seen her mother at work, and then laughs out loud at her description of it. "Oh wow. Yeah, I can't tell you how glad I am that I'm on her good side. ...but yeah, I am pretty driven, and that's not likely to change. After all, I'm still fighting for basically the same thing. I'm fighting to defend the people I love. There's just... maybe more of those than there were before."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura gets a little quiet when Madoka mentions having almost lost her once, but after a moment she nods again. "Yeah... losing your loved ones sucks... but you know what? We aren't the only ones with loved ones around here. Just about every person in this city is somebody's loved one. Maybe even every single one, I don't know. Those lives are precious, and even if we can't save all of them, we should save as many as we can. It isn't fair that people should suffer like we did."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura hears the words come out of her mouth, and she's actually surprised by them. "You know... I think what you did back then, when you saved me... I think that really changed me."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A durable relationship? Madoka giggles back, "I'd hope it was durable after all we've been through. Everything we've been through up until now, I think it's only made our relationship stronger." Even if for a long time there was a distance between them as Homura's mission went on and on it didn't really do anything to weaken her feelings. "Maybe it's wrong to think this way... but hunting Witches with you is actually fun when nobody gets hurt. I think you're right, just about anything would be nice to do so long as I got to do it with you." Cuddling especially? "Hehehe, I'm going to snuggle with you all night to prove it!"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka is kissed! She closes her eyes and happily returns it, catching the wink after it breaks and smiling. "Good. I like it when you do. It really is wonderful to be loved by you, Homura-chan. I want you to know just how much I love you, too." She blushes as Homura's words continue, and she gives her girlfriend a shy look. "That's such a sweet thing to say." And she knows just by looking into her eyes that she means them. She leans in to give Homura a kiss of her own, and after she breaks it looks deeply into her eyes and says in a sugar sweet tone, "I'll have to make sure I stay with you, then; I wouldn't want my sweet Homura-chan to only be half complete."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Homura tells her that she's a lot of the reason she's doing what she's planning Madoka's cheeks flush red. She was basically just told she makes her girlfriend want to be a better person, and that's among the highest compliments someone can give. "It means a lot to me that you'd say that, Homura-chan. I think you're already doing better, and if I'm a part of the reason that makes me really happy. I also think you're going to be a lot happier in the long run. Not just keeping away from things that would make you feel ashamed, but doing things that make you feel good about yourself. You've already done so many things you should feel good about, I hope you can start seeing that for yourself."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka shakes her head with slightly widened eyes, "You really don't want to be on Mama's bad side! ...but I don't see why you would be. You're beautiful and wonderful and smart, and you've only ever been sweet and loving to me as a girlfriend." Even the thing they fought about was, in the end, over Homura's opinion differing on how to keep Madoka safe. She smiles, "Fighting for other people is the best reason. I don't think that will change for me either. I want to keep people safe and stop things from hurting them, both the people I care about, and everyone else, too."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura says some very virtuous and noble things and Madoka's eyes sparkle in admiration of her. When Homura seems surprised replies softly, "Haven't I always told you you were a good person? I think you have changed, but I think it's also that your circumstances have changed to help you be more like your real self."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She gives a little shake of her head, reaching over to take both of Homrua's hands holding them together between her own. "You don't have to look at every other Magical Girl with suspicion and worry anymore. You don't have to be afraid of what might happen if they get too friendly with me, or that me being around them might put me in danger. You don't have to look at all the things they ''might'' do and be wary of trusting them. You should never have to fight alone again, Homura-chan. You can rely on me, and you can rely on everyone else, too. And that should change everything. If I did anything, it was probably to let you see that for yourself from a new perspective."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She leans in to give Homura a close hug, pressing herself warmly to her girlfriend for several long moments. When she finally pulls back she lightly takes one of Homura's hands back into her own. "So... are you done eating? I think it's about time we went and tried cuddling in another of your beds."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's not all fun and games. We could still be hurt..." Ugh. Homura's sounding like Mami again. On the other hand Mami has a high success rate on training elite magical girls. "... but I'll admit that it is exciting, and getting to do it with you is better than doing it alone. A lot better, especially since it means more time I get to spend with you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'I'm gonna snuggle you all night to prove it!'<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura blushes, despite the fact that this isn't the first time they've snuggled all night. Madoka still knows how to bring the shyness out of her. "Hehe, yeah. I'd love to."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura smiles and wraps her arm around Madoka. "I say it because I mean it, Madoka-chan. You really are that important to me. I love you so much. ... and you are the reason why I'm on the path I am. You might not be the only one who wanted me to do this, but you were the most compelling."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;More like her real self? ... maybe. Homura thinks it over, the way her eyes unfocus may seem like she's lost in thought, but she really is listening to everything that Madoka says. "You did more than that. When you took my grief away, you took a part of my grudges along with them. I might still get mad at people, but it's not the same. Many creatures lash out when they're in pain, and humans are not an exception. You took that pain away from me, and I'm grateful for that."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Even if it means Madoka took on that pain herself, Homura does have to acknowledge that it was a good thing, and she'd be a poor, poor friend if she devalued Madoka's sacrifice by letting her despair grow again. "Besides. Everyone has grown past all of the things that I once held against them. I don't want to hold onto that. The past is in the past, especially the past that has already been undone."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura looks at her plate, and looks down at the satisfied and now sleeping Amy. She looks up at Madoka and nods. "I am. Let me clean up some things." Homura gives Madoka a kiss before she stands up from her chair, picking up plates, glasses and pieces of bone. Whatever is a leftover gets wrapped up and put in the fridge so that they can figure out what to do with it in the morning. Everything else is either put in the garbage or given a quick rinse before being placed in the dishwasher. Since Madoka's family cleaned up while they were at Madoka's place, Homura does most of the cleanup herself unless Madoka insists otherwise.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When she comes back, she extends a hand to Madoka. "Shall we, my sweet little angel?"
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