View source for 1462/Spring Picnic

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2016/05/10
|Location=Mitakihara/Pikarigaoka - King Penguin Park
|Synopsis=Homura and Madoka put on pretty dresses for a picnic on a lovely spring day under the shade of a leafy green cherry tree. Yummy food is eaten, conversation is had, and many snuggles are exchanged.
|Cast of Characters=8,23
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's a nice warm spring day in Tokyo, the sky blue with a few large fluffy white clouds. A recent rain coupled combined with the bright shining sun means the grass and plants of the King Penguin Park are verdant and happy. The last of the cherry blossoms may have fallen but there are a lot of other flowers around to make up for them. All in all it's a wonderful day to be outside and many are, the sound of families, children, and people in general having fun and enjoying this place of greenery inside the urban megacity.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka is here beneath one of the large blossomless cherry trees which is now leafy and green with a look of eagerness upon her face. She's asked Homura to meet her here for a picnic a couple hours after school for a picnic and right now she's just setting up. She's spread a large blue and white blanket out, holding the corners down with some decent sized rocks in case a wind blows up. In it's center there's a large woven picnic basket which she opens up while kneeling on the blanket, setting out a number of delectable finger foods made for the two girls by her father.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Especially for the picnic she's wearing a blue and white dress with a modest neckline and a wide frilly round collar. The arms of the dress are white with wide lacy cuffs with the main vertical pinstriped pattern of the dress below to fake the appearance of it being separate pieces. Lace boarders either side of a row of ornamental buttons, and about her waist a wide light yellow ribbon is tied to synch the dress about her waist, a large bow tied in front. The dress flares outward into it's skirt from there and ends rather short with a pair of blue stripes and a rim of white about the hem. Three additional layers of blue ruffles extend down beneath the main skirt to give it a decent final length, and long stockings of pure white extend cover her legs completely while leading down to a pair of blue and white shoes.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her hair is tied up in twintails but she's wearing a special pair of ribbons today, made up of lacy fabric with a secondary bow atop them of darker blue with light yellow hearts in their centers.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The outfit has the effect of giving her a cute, innocent look, covered up completely save for her head, neck, and hands.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Does Homura want to spend time with Madoka? Of course she does. It's not even a question. Starting up Salamander Salvage has made her a bit busy lately, but for some reason Homura always seems to have enough time in the day to do things. Funny, that.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Which is why, when asked, Homura responded with a pleasant, "Of course. I'd love to!" rather than something more apologetic or regretful.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura approaches the park in secret, hiding behind one tree before reappearing behind another. She's in henshin now, stopping time in order to move silently. When she spots pink hair in twintails, she grins mischievously. She stops time once more, walking up behind Madoka, seeing the time-frozen picnic blanket, and the foods all set out and arranged. She clasps her hand together and sighs happily.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She stands right behind Madoka. Time resumes. Her henshin fades, revealing a much different outfit than either her suit or her school uniform. She reaches up to cover Madoka's eyes with her hands, before whispering, "Guess who!"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She's wearing a blue-and-white striped dress, a white criss cross headband, and a blue sash tied around her waist. Her shoulders are poofy, which is maybe a little unusual for Homura, and her hair is tied up in a bun on top of her head. White frills line every edge of her dress, and the neckline is a square cut. Overall the outfit puts here somewhere between young and elegant.

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka doesn't notice the stealthy approach, having nearly no chance at it with Homura using her time stopping magic to slip from tree to tree. There's also the fact that if anyone knows Madoka's mannerisms and how often she looks about herself and how to tail and approach her without being seen, it's Homura.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She does notice -something- behind her as Homura dehenshins, but it doesn't register as anything scary or threatening, and so she intends to finish setting things out nicely before checking behind her. Instead the world suddenly goes dark as her eyes are covered, the whisper drawing a little giggle from her. "Santa!?" she guesses playfully.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her real guess is spot on, however, as she leans her head forward and into the hands covering her eyes, reaching up to take one of them and move it to her cheek before nuzzling against it, her cheek warm and soft. She turns around afterwards, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as she takes in the sight of Homura in her blue and white dress.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You look beautiful, Homura-chan," Madoka says in a quiet voice. She reaches out and brushes fingers over the frills on various parts of the dress, only to trace her hand up Homura's arms to her shoulders, standing leaning in while wrapping her arms about her to give her a gentle hug amidst the rustle of her dress.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It would be very, very easy to hold the hug long enough to forget what they're actually here for, so she cautiously pulls away with a slightly apologetic smile. It brightens a moment later as she walks carefully around the blanket before kneeling on it's opposite side, sitting on her heels, and inviting Homura to sit near her. "I hope you're hungry, because Papa made all kinds of wonderful things for us!" She makes a motion to the spread of tasty appetizers before them; fresh fruit and vegetables cut into easy bites, a few types of simple sushi rolls, rice balls, and a container and small cups for fresh homemade lemonade.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura certainly has enough experience going unnoticed around Madoka, but lately she hasn't had much reason to sneak around. After all, if she wanted to be around Madoka, there'd be very little reason why she couldn't be.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura giggles at Madoka's playful guess. "Nooo~." She shakes her head, smiling softly at her beloved from behind. Then she lets out a soft "awww" as Madoka nuzzles against her hand. Madoka turns around, and Homura tilts her head and smiles as her girlfriend looks her over. They seem to be wearing very similar dresses. Well, Homura doesn't matching outfits with Madoka!<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"As do you, Madoka-chan. Beautiful and cute. My beautiful, cute, sweet little angel."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura is hugged, and she leans against Madoka and hugs her in turn. She closes her eyes, and she'd be perfectly happy if they spent the entire date just like this, but then that'd be a lot of good food going to waste... When Madoka pulls away, Homura loosens her embrace, hands moving to Madoka's sides, fingers hanging on for just a moment before her hands drop.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"The promise of your father's cooking is more than enough to make me hungry, Madoka-chan." She walks around the food, sitting next to Madoka, close enough that they will occasionally brush against each other while they move about. She reaches out to pick up a small piece of fruit, and pops it into her mouth, chewing it as she looks at Madoka, smiling.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She leans against Madoka, saying, "Thanks for all of this. It's wonderful, Madoka-chan." The food is tasty, but Homura can't help but want to enjoy Madoka's warmth.

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka is probably going to have to intentionally spend some time away from Homura every now and then. If she doesn't Homura will very quickly start catching on to the fact that Madoka has another surprise ready for her. Not that the picnic was intended as a surprise, but doing things for Homura are about the only times she doesn't want to be by the dark haired girl's side!<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She smiles sweetly at Homura as she's looked over, shifting a bit in a way that causes her stocking covered legs to brush together. She's called beautiful and cute and the faint blush on her cheeks becomes just a little more visible, "Thank you, Homura-chan. I like looking beautiful and cute for you."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A bashful look is given as Homura's fingers cling to her sides for a moment, Madoka peeking at her through her eyelashes as if to mention her own reluctance to draw away, especially when she's being so held.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'll be sure to tell him, he's always happy to hear his effort is appreciated. He works so hard to make sure everything is good for me and my friends." When Homura sits down close to her Madoka smile's a little brighter, eating a carrot and then a couple other vegetable pieces dutifully before picking up a sushi roll. She leans back against Homura, looking at her out of the corner of her eye, "You're welcome. Thanks for coming and having a picnic with me, Homura-chan."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A light wind kicks up and rustles their dresses, cool enough to be a refreshing breeze in the warm spring air. Madoka's twintails flutter and dance, tickling against Homura's neck and brushing the shoulder of her dress. Madoka takes a bite of her sushi roll and then gets an idea, smiling as she picks up a grape and offers it to Homura from between her fingers.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There was a time when surprising Homura wouldn't be easy, but unless Homura has a specific reason to be worried for Madoka's immediate safety it isn't ''that'' hard to avoid her. Especially if it's temporary.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I like it too!" responds Homura, impishly. She leans in, whispering, "I like being admired by you, too."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura sighs happily as she leans against Madoka. Enjoying good food with the one she loves on a nice day. It doesn't get much better than this. "He's so kind to put in so much effort. Did you inherit your sweetness from him?"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She takes a few small bits of vegetables and eats them, taking a moment to rub the top of her head against the side of Madoka's. "You're welcome, Madoka-chan. I'm always happy to spend time with you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She pulls her head up, but still leans against Madoka, just close enough for her cheeks to be tickled by Madoka's twintails. The soft, fluffy, teasing tips of hair put a faint blush on her cheeks. Homura closes her eyes, smiling slightly, and when she opens her eyes again a grape is being offered to her.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She glances at Madoka from the corner of her eye, grins, and then opens her mouth to accept the grape. She chews it happily, reaches out to find another grape, offering to feed Madoka in the same way. Then she reaches out for a sushi roll, taking a bite of it, chewing as she rests her head against Madoka.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I love you so much."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka giggles at Homura's response, smiling sweetly as she's whispered too afterwards. "You have a lot to be happy about, then," she whispers back. It's true, too. Madoka admires Homura all the time!<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She considers Homura's question while making a soft hum, eventually giving a nod, "It probably is. He's always been so good to me and Tatsuya... he really likes making sure we're all well taken care of. Papa is a wonderful person!"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Another happy smile is on her face as Homura rubs the top of her head against her own, "I'm always the happiest when I'm with you. It's fun getting to do nice things with you, especially when we're both so busy." The one thing that hasn't been taking up so much time recently is Witch hunting. There haven't been many attacks recently and for now she's using it as a bit of a reprieve. Nobody getting hurt or killed by Witches is a really good thing, right?<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura eating the grape out of her fingers with a blush on her cheeks puts a giddy expression on her face. Once the grape is taken she reaches up to brush her hand over the top of Homura's hair, stroking it for a moment before trailing her hand over her shoulder and upper arm admiringly, enjoying giving light touches to her beautiful girlfriend.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She accepts the grape out of Homura's fingers with a smile, giving a sneaky little kiss to her fingertips after delicately taking the grape with her lips, chewing and enjoying the fruit itself afterwards. Her own sushi roll is finished off soon after, but not before she replies, "I love you too." She meets Homura's eyes with her own, looking into them affectionately.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura giggles as Madoka says she has a lot to happy about. "Oh you have no idea." She giggles. Then she adds, "No, actually, I think you have a pretty clear idea, since you've been in my head before. I have so much to be happy about, getting to be with you, Madoka-chan."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura giggles as Madoka talks about her father. "That sounds familiar. I think I see the resemblance. His daughter is wonderful, too~." Homura's not shy about complimenting Madoka, even if she's being a little roundabout in how she phrases it.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura glances away as their being busy is mentioned. She pauses before she answers. "Yeah, well, starting up a company is a big deal. I don't expect that will let up for a while." She frowns, thinking quietly. Sure, a lack of Witches does mean a reprieve. They both have Grief Seeds stored up, so it's not a problem, and not fighting does mean using less magic. That's... good, right?<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The light touches from Madoka are soothing to Homura, and for a moment she lets her mind drift away from Witches and their implications. She closes her eyes to enjoy the feeling of Madoka's hand moving over her shoulder and upper arm, tilting her head towards Madoka's hand and letting out a soft 'mmm'.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The kiss on her fingertips draws a giggle from Homura, and she lifts her fingers and presses them against her own lips, eyes staying on Madoka as she does so. After a moment, her hand moves to the blanket, supporting Homura as she leans forward to give Madoka a soft kiss on the lips.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When she pulls away, there's a small sushi roll in Homura's hand. Not the one she was eating before. She finished that one. The new sushi roll rests in Homura's hand as she raises it to Madoka's mouth, offering to feed her a bit more.

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka blushes at the mention of having seen inside Homura's head. It's immensely flattering to be so central in someone's thoughts, to be cared about and loved so wholly.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The roundabout compliment comes and Madoka giggles along with it. "It's easy to see why Mama fell for him, isn't it," she notes, not realizing it could easily seem like she's complimenting herself.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She calms for a moment as Homura talks about the company for a moment, "It is a big deal. Even if it means we can't be around each other all the time I think it's a good thing." She looks upwards for a moment as she thinks, only to smile as Homura responds to her touch with a quiet happy sound.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The kissing of the kissed fingers gets a playful giggle out of her which calms as Homura leans towards her. She closes her eyes and eagerly waits for the other girl to reach her, the soft press of lips against hers drawing a soft 'mm' of enjoyment from her. She merely accepts it for the very start, but presses back gently to return the kiss, her lips pressing softly against Homura's and conforming to them. When they part her eyes open up, and she smiles at her sweetheart from close up, only to smile wider and then open her mouth to accept a bite of the sushi roll, keeping her gaze on Homura as she eats it happily.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her expression is both kind and thoughtful, and after she swallows her bite she leans towards Homura, reaching out and setting her hand gently on her knee. "I've been thinking over the last few days. I really mean what I said, being happy about what you're doing- what we're going to do together. We're both very happy together, but being happy isn't everything." She pauses for a moment before adding, "Helping people when they're hurt or sad... being a magical girl and saving people... it doesn't just make me happy, it makes me feel fulfilled."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka turns her soft pink eyes to the purple of Homura's with a kind look, "I want that for you, too. You finally succeeded in your mission;" that's how Madoka sees it anyway, "I'm safe and happy. That must have helped you feel fulfilled as well, but I don't think it'd last forever. Maybe it's already starting to fade? Because you had that mission for so long, something important to strive towards. I think maybe you'll feel more satisfied with yourself working towards another, newer goal."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She blushes suddenly and looks away shyly, "Maybe that's silly of me. It might not be right for me to tell you how you feel either." A short pause, "But... I just wanted you to know that it really is important to me that you're living a satisfying and rewarding life too, even if we'd be perfectly happy snuggling for hours and hours in bed every day."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Very easy," agrees Homura, without missing a beat, keeping an eye on Madoka. Homura knows exactly why she loves Madoka so much, so it's not hard to understand that other couples may have fallen in love for similar reasons.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura nods as Madoka says the business is a good thing, even if it might mean they spend less time together. It's not as if they don't get a lot of time to spend with each other. It'd be a different thing if they stopped altogether, but they've been pretty inseparable for months now.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura giggles as Madoka takes the bite, and then quiets as Madoka starts to talk about something more serious. Well, it's a conversation they should probably have sooner or later, right? Homura listens as Madoka says her piece, considering the words before she responds.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Is she satisfied? Is she fulfilled? That's a difficult question to answer. In a way, Homura's mission to protect Madoka will never really end. There will only be times when it's easier than others. Right now, it's easy, but will it always be that way?<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homrua pops a grape into her mouth, chewing it and swallowing before she answers.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"After struggling for so long, getting to be with you ''is'' fulfilling, and it has been for a while. I fought hard for this, and I do want to enjoy it while I have it. I don't really think I can think of that mission as being 'over' either. If something came along that could seriously threaten you, I'd still want to protect you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura pauses, leaning against Madoka, nuzzling against her. "On the other hand, I know how you feel, and I know you don't want to sit by and do nothing while others struggle or suffer. After everything I had to do, I'm enjoying the vacation, but I mean... I can't really expect you to feel the same way. From your perspective, you've only just started."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura considers, her lips twisting a few times as she considers how she thinks, and how to respond. "This is the first time in 10 years that I've felt like my life can actually move forward. I think the Walpurgisnacht dance really set that in more than anything. This isn't just a new timeline. It's a new life. Maybe you're right in saying that my goals will change, and I don't intend to take it easy forever, but my dedication to you isn't going to change. It's just... I'm not as worried anymore. Even if something else like Walpurgisnacht comes along, you'll have a lot more experience, and you'll have the rest of us fighting with you, too."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She closes her eyes, resting against Madoka. "I'm pretty satisfied with things as they are. I'm not saying it will always be that way, or that I'll never get bored, and in some ways the Contractors are a part of wanting to do something new... but as for spending time with you, I'd say that makes me feel very fulfilled, because of how seemingly impossible that has been before now."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Looking up to Madoka, she asks, "How about you? Are you fulfilled? If there's something that you want to do, then we do have the Contractors for that. I know you care about protecting people, and part of the job of the Contractors ''is'' to defend the city."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka leans back against Homura as she listens to her speak. She has to suppress a giggle when she hears her premise was actually pretty far off, not wanting it to be mistaken for finding being fulfilled by their closeness being silly or laughable. She tries not to interrupt, nodding and listening as the dark haired Puella speaks and sliding an arm around her as she closes her eyes, rubbing her arm before sliding her hand over to her waist and drawing her closer.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mostly she wants to be close to Homura but it sure doesn't hurt that the other girl is talking that very moment about how good it is for her to be so close. When Homura rests against her Madoka leans her head against hers, nuzzling gently so that her fluffy hair brushes against her ear. When the questions are asked she looks into Homura's eyes and smiles, "I've been wonderful lately, getting to spend so much time with you. I've been able to do a lot of good ever since I became a Puella Magi. We've stopped a lot of Witches together, and we were able to help win the fight against something strong enough to threaten the entire universe."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She looks away shyly for a moment before returning her eyes to Homura, "Not just that, but I was able to save you, too, Homura-chan. You being here beside me, alive and happy... that fulfills me and satisfies me, too." She gives a shake of her head, "It seems like I was worrying over nothing. I just wanted you to know that I want you to be happy and satisfied. We're both busier with Salamander Salvage and the Contractors, but I'm not feeling upset or lonely. I didn't want you to think I was."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her expression changes a little as she looks at Homura, giving away her actions a moment or two before she leans in and gives Homura a soft kiss on the mouth, letting her lips linger together with her love's for several long moments.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It'd be hard for Homura to imagine a world where being with Madoka wasn't enough. It'd also be hard for her to not feel at peace in Madoka's arms, and considering how troubled she's been in the past it's not that hard to guess that Madoka gives her a peace she couldn't get anywhere else. Homura said she felt complete with Madoka, so it's not surprising to her that she'd feel fulfilled that way either.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka wraps an arm around Homura, and Homura smiles, closing her eyes. She wraps an arm around Madoka's waist in turn, staying leaned against her. "We have done a lot of good together, haven't we? We've saved a lot of people." Her purple eyes open and look at Madoka. "If you were upset... you could tell me."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura isn't sure what to make of this conversation. Was Madoka trying to see if ''she'' was upset or lonely? Homura thinks about that for a moment.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I wouldn't say that I was lonely, persay. I ''do'' get upset sometimes, but mostly that's because my situation is often ridiculous. At least, I feel like it is." She pauses, holding Madoka tighter. "I... admit I have been kind of hiding behind you, at least a bit. You're nice to me, you give me what I want, and I feel safe around you. Other people... not so much, and it upsets me that I feel like I have to be on my guard all the time. I get tired of it sometimes."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I guess in a way I've just been hiding from stress. Maybe that's cowardly of me, but it's so much easier to just run to your arms instead of deal with other people's drama, especially when I know the drama is usually some weird mental construct on their part anyways." Homura nuzzles against Madoka, moving her other arm to join the first in holding her girlfriend. "It's not always so trivial, mind you. Sometimes there are violent enemies and they need to be handled, but I don't mind dealing with those things. At least in those fights I can tell myself that it's not a complete waste of time."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her eyes open again, and she glances away. "I don't want to just complain, though. I mean, there are a lot of nice people in the world. Especially in this timeline. I don't want to forget that just because they annoy me sometimes, but there's no one who makes me feel as safe as you do."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She's looking away, so she's a little slow on noticing Madoka move in. When she finally looks, Madoka catches Homura by the mouth. Homura giggles a moment, before closing her eyes again and enjoying the kiss.

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A nod is given in response to doing a lot of good and saving a lot of people. "We have. It's the kind of thing I can look at and know without a doubt how good and important it was. People who are alive and safe, and families that don't have to wonder what happened or where they went wrong when all along it was some horrible monster they never even knew existed." Madoka's eyes meet Homura's as they turn to her and she smiles, "I ''will'' tell you if I'm upset. I know that's very important for us. I still have nightmares, but not very often. They're not so bad as they used to be, either."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As Homura's other arm goes around her Madoka gives up any pretense of maintaining distance and scoots over to her, the skirts of their dresses bunching up together. She rubs Homura's side as she talks about getting upset and hiding behind her. "I'll be your port in a storm if you need one," she says quietly, letting her finish speaking afterwards. She returns the nuzzle, looking at Homura afterwards as her purple eyes look off somewhere in the distance.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For several long moments she'll hold the kiss, reaching up to brush her fingers over Homura's cheek before hugging her close with both arms. For a few minutes she's content to cuddle and kiss her girlfriend under the shade of the cherry tree on the warm spring day, enjoying the feeling of her in her arms and the love and affection she so freely gives and recieves.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When she finally pulls away she reaches up to brush over Homura's hair soothingly. "I don't think it's cowardly," she says softly. "We both like spending time with each other, it's not hard to see why you'd want to do that instead of other things. Especially being around people who might upset you." It's funny, in a way. Homura doesn't want to deal with drama and personal conflicts are one of the things that Madoka has always tried to smooth over and disliked herself. "In a way it's easier if the problem is some Youma you can shoot and make go away forever, isn't it? But if people get mad at each other and form grudges it's almost like there's nothing you can do."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finally she smiles, rocking a little from side to side with Homura in her arms, "I feel safest with you, too. Even safer than when I'm alone." She lets go of Homura with one arm as her eyes wander away, reaching down and plucking up one of the triangular rice balls and taking a bite out of it with a happy closed-eyed expression.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura smiles at Madoka's words, pressing her cheek against her as the two of them cuddle up close. "They'll never know, will they? I think I prefer it that way. Maybe it's because I'm shy, but I wouldn't know what to say to those people if they knew." Not to mention, it saves Homura from a lot of negative situations and misunderstandings, too.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura frowns at the mention of nightmares, but she's happy that they aren't as bad as they used to be. "I'm glad. It really means a lot, that you were willing to bear that for me."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After her rant, and the kiss and cuddling that follows, she listens to what Madoka says about it. It's not cowardly? Well, maybe not. Maybe 'cowardly' is a bit harsh. It's not like Homura's morally obligated to put up with people's crap. If anything she almost feels obligated to not get distracted by it.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Thank you, Madoka-chan. Especially for being my port in the storm." Homura smiles warmly at Madoka, the tilt of her head adding a bit of softness to it. "... and I think that just about says it. I really would rather sit here and enjoy the company of the one I love instead of... whatever is going on. In as far as I can really help it anyways. It ''would'' be easier on me if I had an easy solution to every problem, but I really can't control what other people think and I don't really have the right or responsibility to either."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura reaches down to pick up another sushi roll and pops it into her mouth, chewing as she considers what else to say. When she swallows, she's decided. "I'm glad, Madoka-chan. I'm glad that you feel safe around me just like I feel safe around you. In fact, you've always let me feel safe, haven't you? In other timelines, even."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka makes a tiny shake of her head, which is hard to do while keeping her cheek up against Homura's but somehow she manages. "If you didn't want to talk to them for long you could probably just tell them that you're doing your job and that you're welcome," Madoka suggests. Besides, it isn't like every once in a while the people they're helping aren't fellow magical heroes; knowing how to handle thanks and praise is a useful skill to have!<br /> <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Though on another note, "Hehe... You'd look adorable if you were embarrassed and shy because someone knew you'd done something wonderful for them, Homura-chan." To add a just a little bit to the tease Madoka reaches up and brushes against the part of Homura's cheek that gets rosiest when she blushes. The words that come after Homura's frown get a simple, "I'd do almost anything to keep you safe and by my side, Homura-chan."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She giggles softly as Homura confirms she'd rather spend time with her than deal with other less snuggly things, "That's why it's so nice when we get to solve more difficult problems together; it's the best of both worlds. And maybe if we're together and something is upsetting you, you can ask me for a hug!" It might sound patronizing or insulting coming from somebody else, but Madoka doesn't have an insulting bone in her body. Why would she want to make someone feel bad about themselves? It just doesn't make sense to her.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After a moment of considering her own words she giggles louder after taking a bite of her rice ball, holding a hand up to her mouth in embarrassment. After she swallows the bite she leans in and whispers into Homura's ear, "You know... if you're in henshin you always have time to come over and give me a hug. If you're getting annoyed and I'm always willing if hugging me or talking to me would help." With another little giggle she adds, "Or snuggling?"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her eyes close and she nuzzles the side of her head against Homura's, fluffy pigtail rubbing into her cheek, "I'm glad you feel safe with me, too." She lets out a happy sigh and smiles, "I was always happy when I was able to protect you. I remember that, from when we were connected. Helping you always made me feel proudest of all. I even said so to you once or twice, I think."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura considers. Just doing her job, huh? "I guess. I mean, it's true. It ''is'' my job to deal with those kinds of things. I guess if that's all I have to say..."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The dark haired Puella blushes at Madoka's teasing. "But..." she starts to object, but then after a moment realizes that a response isn't strictly necessary. "... You think I'd be cute? Well, I can hardly complain if it means you're adoring me."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'I'd do almost anything to keep you safe and by my side, Homura-chan.'<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well..." Homura pauses before finishing her response. "... you've more than proven that. I feel the same, though. I'd do whatever it took to keep you safe, especially if it means I get to be close to you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The dark-haired Puella picks up a rice ball and starts to eat it. In between swallowing and biting, she says, "It is nice, isn't it? If I actually have to keep dealing with big problems, at least I get to have you there with me." Madoka then mentions asking for a hug, and Homura blushes. Could she... do that? Even knowing that Madoka would be okay with it, could she really just go up to Madoka at any time and say 'I want a hug.'?<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;... Well, yeah probably. I mean, they do that enough already. It isn't until Madoka mentions Homura's timestopping magic that Homura ''really'' starts blushing. Having all the time in the world to hold Madoka close, and even snuggle her. "I... I mean, I'd like to. It might not always be a good idea, but I mean... Life isn't always going to be a walk in the park. It'd be nice to have the occasional cuddle break if we needed one."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If 'we' needed one, meaning she'd be willing to stop time for Madoka's sake, too.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Though I admit..." Homura starts to smile, still blushing faintly. "... it'd be a bit silly. I don't think I've ever used my power like that before."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura beams at the rest of what Madoka says. "I remember. You've said that a number of times. I've heard it... a lot, over the years. I guess that's what always reminded me how kind you are. Being proud because you were able to save someone. If it doesn't sound too selfish of me, I think it's a good thing ot be proud of."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka's teasing is rewarded by a blush and she giggles happily. "Yes I do. And I do adore you, Homura-chan." She proves it by turning her head and pressing a kiss to Homura's blushing cheek.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You've proven your dedication to me over and over again, almost more times than I could even count. It didn't matter how hard things got for you, you were always there for me. You're an amazing person and so good to me, it's no wonder I fell in love with you." It's fortuitous for Madoka that the thing Homura wants the most, to spend time with her, is also a very good and happy thing for her as well; it makes it very easy to reward that dedication!<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka's giggles ring playfully as Homura reacts to her idea of stopping time to have a bit of extra close time. She finishes off her rice ball and wraps both arms around the dark haired girl, turning into her and pressing up against her warmly, "It's important to take care of our emotional health, too! Especially if something is trying to make us upset on purpose. If it stops us from getting hurt because we get upset that's still a good a use of magic, right?" Keeping a cool head in battle and not letting your opponent get to you is important!<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka nods her head and blushes herself, "It would be, just a little." She gives a shake of her head, "But maybe if it's like I said, or we're doing something else together anyway what's wrong with a hug?"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She blushes more when Homura smiles at her so brightly, quietly basking in the kind words and praise. "It doesn't sound selfish at all, Homura-chan."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura giggles, and blushes just a little harder, as Madoka kisses her on the cheek. "I adore you too, Madoka-chan." She leans forward to give Madoka a soft kiss on the forehead.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"And you've been amazing to me, too. Really, I don't think I've met anyone who was quite like you. I mean... I've met others who are kind, or sweet, but you... no one else could mean as much to me as you do. I'm lucky that you fell in love with me, and I'm glad that I fell in love with you, too."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Both of them are lucky in the way that there are many wonderful things that they both want to do together. Homura certainly considers herself lucky that Madoka is so cuddly. Speaking of, Madoka presses up against her, and Homura can't help but want to throw an arm around Madoka, and so she does so, pulling her close at least for a moment. "Emotional health ''is'' important. Especially for us. Still, no matter how practical, I can't get over the thought of 'tactical hugging'."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura giggles as she thinks about it. "Maybe because the thought of it is so exciting~. I always thought it'd be nice to spend a frozen moment in time with you, cuddling you close and holding you tight. It'd be a bit extravagant for a date... but that doesn't mean we can't take some time to cuddle."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She shakes her head. "Nothing's wrong with a hug. Not between two people who love each other and just want to be close."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka tilts her head down as she's kissed on the forehead, smiling and closing her eyes to accept it. Her blush brightens more still at what Homura says next, "You always say such sweet thinks about me. More than anyone else. I'm happy just by being with you, but you always make me feel good about myself as well. Thank you." After a moment she adds, "I don't think anyone could mean as much to me as you do, either. Not after everything we've been through together."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The arm sliding around her means that Homura must like what she's doing, so Madoka keeps on pressing close, hugging onto her with both arms while twisting her body towards her. Her own giggles can be felt as she shakes from laughter at 'tactical hugging'. She smiles brightly, tightening up with one arm so her other is free to let her twirl Homura's hair around her finger in a flirty manner, "You have thought about it before! Cuddling with me in a moment of time that's just for the two of us, and nobody else. That'd be the most secret snuggle spot of all, wouldn't it?"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Still... she has to admit, "It would be extravagant if it was for a long time, especially for a whole date. Though the thought of having a date where we had to touch the whole time is fun! Like a romantic three-legged race." She laughs because the thought really is a bit ridiculous even if very possible.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's never wrong for us then, because I'll always love you and I always want to be close to you," Madoka replies happily. She leans her head against Homura's and closes her eyes for a moment and lets out a happy sigh. When they open she smiles a little, "Speaking of just wanting to be close... this might sound silly but would you, um, sit in my lap? Like I did in yours the other day on the ship." She smiles shyly and peeks at Homura through her eyelashes, "I want to hold you; actually hold you."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I can't help it, Madoka-chan! It's all true!" Homura's voice is almost a squee. She really does adore Madoka, in many senses of the word, and it's not hard to tell from the way she acts. "You're welcome, though I'm just saying how I feel. You make me feel good about myself, too. I feel a lot more confident, since you've been so good to me. Thank you too, Madoka-chan."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura makes an affirmative 'mhm' noise. "It'd be our own little secret place. No one could ever interrupt us. At least, not until we had to leave. My only complaint would be the time limit, but there are a few ways to forestall that, too." She giggles at the mention of the three-legged race, and the thought of running something like that with Madoka sounds fun... though they might end up having an unfair advantage, since they're already used to moving together.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I know, Madoka-chan. So will I." Homura smiles at Madoka's happy sigh, and then her head perks up to look at her girlfriend as Homura listens to her. "Sit on your lap?" repeats Homura. It doesn't seem silly at all. In fact... "Of course, Madoka-chan."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura shifts her seating posture around a bit, sitting up straight and (temporarily) releasing Madoka from her arms. She slides onto Madoka's lap, curing her lower legs against the other girl's. Homura leans towards Madoka, putting her arms around her again, holding her close and letting Madoka do the same.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Hold me as much as you like my love."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A bright smile shows on Madoka's face as Homura speaks, "Then I'm extra happy! I know you really feel that way. I do, too. I love you so much sometimes I think the only way I can show you how much is to hug you and kiss you and squeeze you forever!" She laughs and giggles cheerfully after speaking, calming a little bit before adding, "I'm glad you're starting to see in yourself what I've always seen in you," when Homura remarks about feeling more confident. That really is the way she sees it; that Homura has always had a lot of reason to feel good about herself, and that she spent far too much time focusing on her failures rather than her successes.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"No fair," Madoka playfully whines, "being together with someone you love should never have a time limit. We should be able to hug each other for as long as we like~." Being good at working together wouldn't be cheating, though stopping time to get any kind of competitive edge certainly would.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura accepts her request and slips onto her lap and Madoka wraps her arms around her gratefully while offering, "Thank you, my love," helping her if needed. Once there she leans forward into Homura, holding one arm around her waist and another around her back, pulling the dark haired girl close to her. She rocks Homura in her arms, looking a bit further up to her from those inches of extra height.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I love you so much it almost hurts. But if it hurts even a little it feels good so much more because you're here and real and I can hold you in my arms." Her soft pink eyes look up at Homura's face and she smiles sweetly, "I adore you and cherish you, Homura-chan. You mean the world to me. I love getting to be so close to you and getting to see you so happy." She squeezes the beautiful Puella tightly to herself, letting herself truly enjoy having Homura as her friend, partner, and girlfriend. "My darling."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura 'mm's happily. "Being hugged and kissed and squeezed by you forever sounds nice. I don't mind if you want to show your love for me that way. Though don't be surprised if I hug and kiss and squeeze you right back~." She nuzzles against Madoka, and when she speaks next, her voice sounds wistful, and maybe a little melancholy. "That'd be nice... if there was a place where we could just... do that forever."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'I'm glad you're starting to see in yourself what I've always seen in you'<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura smiles, holding Madoka tight. "I'm glad that you can see what I see in you, too. You were always... sweet, and heroic, and you were always as good to everyone as you could be." She tilts her head slightly to the side and gives Madoka a kiss on the cheek.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura giggles at Madoka's playful whining, responding, "That just means we have to make the most of the time we have, my beloved. Though as far as I'm concerned you ''can'' hold me as much as you like."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura settles into Madoka's lap and enjoys the warmth and kindness of her angel's embrace. Her eyes drift shut, and she leans against Madoka. There's something peaceful about this, being held like this. Almost as if she were being taken care of or mothered. Well, if there's anyone Homura would want to have taking care of her, it's Madoka. If she isn't careful, she could easily drift away just like this.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think I know what you mean." Homura's voice is soft, and almost a whisper. "I love you so much I can hardly stand it, but it's such a good feeling. After so long... to be able to be with you like this. I don't think I can tell you how much I've needed this, how important this is to me."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her eyes drift open again. "You're like a dream come true, Madoka-chan. I'll always hold you dear."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka gives a gentle shake of her head and replies, "I won't mind at all if you return my love," before leaning her head against the nuzzle. She then smiles a little, "It would be nice if we could only be close, but there's nothing saying we can't love each other forever right here." She gives Homura a small kiss on the cheek, "Maybe forever doesn't have to be all at once?"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her smile widens and she blushes slightly as she's given her own kiss on the cheek. "Thank you, it means a lot to me that you always saw that in me, even when I couldn't see it in myself." Her expression softens again and she adds, "We both know what it feels like to feel bad about ourselves... even when I know that isn't true it's still good to hear someone else saying it."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'That just means we have to make the most of the time we have, my beloved.'<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka giggles softly, scooping Homura closer to her in her embrace. As Homura relaxes she leans the her towards herself, helping to rest the dark haired girl's head against her shoulder and cuddling her there in her lap, rubbing her back soothingly and pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "Then that's just what I'll do," she speaks quietly. "If I have to make the most of my time with you I want to hold you, love you, and caress you because you're so sweet and precious to me."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's something deeply satisfying about caring for Homura like this. She wants to take all her troubles away, if only for a little while. She isn't quite mothering her, but perhaps something close. Her love is nearly as unconditional as a mothers, and one could argue it's just as caring.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It didn't take me very long to realize how much I needed you, too, Homura-chan. I never knew how quickly I could fall in love... I did love you, but once we were together everything felt so right."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura's eyes open and Madoka looks down into them, lifting her fingers to brush them through Homura's bangs, pushing a few stray hairs back behind her ear, tracing the edge of it, and then caressing the side of her head with her hand. "If this is a dream then I never want to wake up." Her smile widens a tiny bit, "But I know this is real, that I have my dearest and most wonderful in my arms." She gives a warm squeeze, leaning into Homura. "I love you."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maybe forever doesn't have to be all at once? Homura scratches her chin. "Well, I mean... half of infinity is still an infinite amount." Then she blinks, and squirms a little bit awkwardly. "Hehe, um, maybe that was too serious of an answer? Though I don't mind if it's a bit more than half!"<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She buries her face into Madoka, finding comfort in being close to her beloved. "Yeah... we both do. It's easy to look at the negatives sometimes, but really we don't have to. I think it's good for us, that we have each other to point out the good things we have."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura's head rests on Madoka's shoulder, and she happily sighs. There's really no place she'd rather be right now. This is a relatively new position for them to cuddle in, but it's a nice one. With her eyes and her mouth closed as they are, it'd be easy to think that Homura was sleeping in Madoka's arms. Well, it wouldn't be the first time, but the occasional comment from Homura indicates that she's very much awake.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You're precious to me too, Madoka-chan. I'm glad we have this time to enjoy each other's love and company."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She smiles as Madoka says that she needs her. "We did fall in love pretty quickly, didn't we?" She considers that a moment, before she rephrases. "Well... actually I had plenty of time to fall in love, and we already loved each other as friends. Maybe it was only natural for our feelings to turn romantic so rapidly. It's... been very good for me. I hope it's been good for you too."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The feeling of Madoka playing with Homura brings her back to a very restful, peaceful state. To be held and handled so gently... <br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's very real, and it's so amazing. I love you, too."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Half of infinity?" Madoka asks with a perplexed look on her face, "But if it's only half how could it be infinite? Isn't infinite 'everything'?" Attempts to think on this further put an even more confused look upon her face until Homura comments further. "Eheheh, it's okay, Homura-chan. Spending forever with each other is a serious topic," her lips curl upwards into a smile, "even if it's also a very fun and snuggly one."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The pink-haired girl can't quite hold back an, "Aww..." as Homura buries her face, her opinion on just how adorable that is from her perspective made apparent. "It is good for us," she agrees readily, "If we trust each other's opinions of ourselves neither of us have any reason to feel bad. I know I trust yours."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka has given her opinion on Homura's sleeping face before and seeing her placid and restful now while awake puts a soft smile on her face. She rocks back and forth while touching Homura soothingly, cradling and cuddling her in her arms. She wouldn't even mind if Homura did fall asleep since that would mean she was so very comfortable, but talking with her is always nice.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Romantic love came very fast," she agrees with a nod to Homura's sentiment. She thinks back to that moment when they were laying together in the snow and a blush rises on her cheeks once more, "I still remember it like it was yesterday. The first time you kissed me... it was like everything changed." She lets out an involuntary giggle, blushing brighter while feeling a bit bad; that doesn't fit the current mood! "You've been very good for me, Homura-chan. Loving you might be the best thing that's ever happened to me."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura considers how much she wants to respond to that. It's something she read heavily about in college-level textbooks but that's so far ahead of her current grade. Well... "Not really. Infinite just means endless, not everything. It isn't necessarily all-inclusive. Think about it like this: there are an infinite number of whole numbers, right? Well, if you consider only the even numbers, then that seems like it'd be half as many numbers, and in a way it is because for every even whole number you include there's an odd whole number that you leave out, but in the end it's still an infinite amount of numbers."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The irony of Homura explaining infinity to Madoka is lost on her, because this isn't the timeline where Madoka is an all-knowing goddess.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The soft 'aww' from Madoka brings a giggle out from Homura. Madoka might be able to feel the slight shaking of Homura's body as she laughs. For someone so tough to be adored is a little ironic, but adoration coming from Madoka is always welcome.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I trust your opinion of me, too. I don't think anyone knows me better than you do." Realistically, Homura isn't sure anyone ''can'' know her as well as Madoka does.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura quietly enjoys the soft swaying back and forth that Madoka is doing, allowing herself to be carried along with it. "I really am in the arms of an angel..." she softly muses. Madoka reminds her of the time they first kissed, and a grin creeps across Homura's otherwise sleep-like face. "It did change, didn't it? It's amazing how much it did. I still can't believe how amazing it was." She giggles again, recalling the event. "We kissed until the sunrise. Such a perfect way to start things off between us..."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She nuzzles against Madoka, face becoming placid once again. "You're the best thing that's ever happened to me, too. I don't know what I'd do without you."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka nods a little as she listens to Homura's explanation, trying to make sense out of it but having a slightly difficult time getting a grip on the concept itself. "So each of them is only half of all the numbers, but each is so many you couldn't ever count them all?" She makes a soft hum, "I guess if I had infinite apples I could give someone a few of them, but still have so many I couldn't ever count them, even if I didn't have all of them anymore? Is that it?"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It would be difficult for anyone who had a hard time realizing that the same person could have a tough side and a soft side, but that's something Madoka has an easy time getting past. She's had a lot of examples and role models for that, not the least of which is the beautiful Puella Magi who can go from destroying Witches with impunity in one moment to snuggling the next that's in her arms right now. Feeling Homura shake from giggling puts a bit of brightness in her otherwise soft smile.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"For a long time you knew me better than I knew myself. Maybe you still do," Madoka replies. Her head shakes softly and she smiles, "I don't mind if no one can know me so well as you can. It would be nice if people understood me, but it's most important that you do."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'I really am in the arms of an angel...'<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka smiles again at Homura's words, "I like being your little angel, Homura-chan. I want to be. I'm glad I can be something like that for you." Being called such a sweet thing really makes her feel special.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura's placid expression suddenly changes to wear a grin and Madoka giggles. "Mmhm! It was incredible. I wasn't at all sure what to expect, and it wasn't anything like I thought it would be like... it was so much better!" She lets out a happy sigh and squeezes Homura closely to herself, hugging onto her girlfriend as she sits in her lap.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I don't know what I'd do without you, either... that's why I intend to make sure neither of us ever has to find out." Her voice is soft and sweet as she speaks, voice quiet and just above a whisper. She's quiet for several moments after. Homura might feel the vestiges of sun filtering between the leaves of the tree they sit under fading away, and then she'd surely feel Madoka's fluffy pink hair tickling against her face.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka looks at Homura close up for a few moments before letting out a happy sigh, only to let the softness of her lips press tenderly to those of her girlfriends as she holds her in her arms and lap. "Mm..."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura nods her head. It's close enough to the concept, anyways. "Yeah. That's right. If you have infinite apples, then you'll always have an endless number of them even if you give some of them away. It's the same if you eat a few of them." To get back to the point... "So if we had an infinite amount of time, we could still spend some time doing something else, school or hunting Witches for example, and we'd still have an infinite amount of time to spend together."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura at one point knew Madoka better than she knew herself? Maybe, yeah. She could say that with some confidence. There was a point when Madoka thought herself weak, but Homura knew that she was one of the strongest people she's ever known. At the same time, there was something important that Homura didn't understand back then... but now she even gets that, too. "Not everyone will understand, but some will. I know I do, and I love what I see in you. You ''are'' my little angel, and I'm glad I have such a cute pet name that I get to call you~."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura can't help but feel warm and loved inside as Madoka tells her that their first kiss was much better than she thought it would be. Well, she knew that she could love Madoka well if only she were given the opportunity. "Thank you for taking a chance on me, Madoka-chan. I didn't know how it'd turn out, but we really are happy together. I know I am."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There have been a number of times when it looked like one of them might have to do without the other... Neither one of them could really handle it. That was something Madoka pointed out to her a while ago. After thinking about it, Homura couldn't really argue.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Me either." Homura's embrace around Madoka tightens slightly, as she clings to her. The kiss comes, and it catches Homura by surprise, but it's a sweet surprise at that. She presses her lips against Madoka's, enjoying the contact for a moment.

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So I could spend an infinite amount of time hugging you, but -also- spend a separate infinite amount of time kissing you, and another infinite amount of time dancing with you?" Madoka replies, taking Homura's examples in a sillier direction with a bright smile on her face. "I think I like this way of thinking!"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She smiles happily then and nods quickly in agreement, "I'm glad you have such a cute thing to call me, too! Sometimes I think I should have a cute name for you too, but to me 'Homura-chan' means so much... My love and my very best friend."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She smiles softly then, "Thank you for taking the risk of asking me. I was worried that it might make our friendship awkward, but in the end it's only made me feel closer to you than ever. I still feel like I can sit and talk with you for hours, and we do." She giggles suddenly, lifting her hand to cover her mouth, "We're talking together right now even while I'm holding you as proof." She lowers her voice, saying in a sweet tone, "I'm very happy being together with you, Homura-chan."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka couldn't quite keep herself from kissing Homura after talking about their first kiss and remembering how amazing it was. Her lips smile a bit as she surprises her girlfriend with it, letting it linger gently for a long moment before pulling away. "Kissing you never gets boring," she whispers teasingly, rubbing the tip of her nose just above Homura's ear.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cuddling with Homura doesn't get boring either, and Madoka happily holds her in her arms for longer still. It's still warm out, though starting to cool. Madoka cradles her and rocks her back and forth, as much for her own sake as Homura's. After a while she asks, "Do you want anything more to eat? Or a sip of lemonade, Homura-chan?" She's ready to pick up and offer any morsel Homura might ask for to her girlfriends lips.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura blushes as eternity is divvied up into several different infinite amounts of time hugging and kissing and dancing. As close as they are, it wouldn't be hard for Madoka to feel the heat in Homura's cheeks. "Y-yeah! Exactly!" is her enthusiastic reply.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A cute pet name for Homura? She tries to imagine that. Well, the pet name 'angel' came from an otherwise throwaway comment about modelling. Maybe they'll make another comment and that will end up as Homura's pet name? On the other hand... "Well, I don't ''have'' to have a pet name... I like it when you call me by my name, too."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She giggles, thinking back to when they first started dating. "We ''do'' talk for hours, and cuddle for hours, and we did even back then. It's sweet that it's taken on a new meaning, but we've always enjoyed each other's company." Homura smiles and whispers back, "I'm very happy, too. I have been for months."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She lets out a soft, gentle 'mm' as Madoka whispers, enjoying the feeling of being nuzzled. She rubs her cheek against Madoka, resting her head against her. "It doesn't get boring to me, either. I don't think it will ever get old."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With nothing else being said, it's easy for Homura to lose herself in the feeling of being held, and in being close to her beloved. The cold brushes against her cheek, but that's outside. In Madoka's arms, Homura is warm, and that's all she cares about. When Madoka speaks again, Homura seems to wake up. Is... is Madoka offering to feed her? Well, she's done that ''before'', but while holding her like this?<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura blushes again. Well, she doesn't want to pass it up... "U-um. Some lemonade, maybe?"

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka enjoys the warmth of Homura's cheeks, fighting off a happy giddy feeling that wells up inside her at it in favor of enjoying the closeness in a calmer way. "Then we have a lot to look forward to!"<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka wouldn't mind having a pet name for Homura but it might be hard finding one that she felt was good enough. There's no telling what may come in the future, though. Especially with how much time they're planning on spending together; forever might be long enough to find a good pet name!<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She giggles alongside Homura, "We did, didn't we? Even before we were dating I felt comfortable with you." It might seem a little odd that she became comfortable with her so quickly too, with how unsure she was at first. She is naturally trusting, but there always was something about Homura that goes even beyond that, even in past timelines. Sometimes it was even startlingly obvious, though Homura might not have been in a position to realize it herself back then.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka enjoys the feeling of Homura's cheek nuzzling against her, relaxing when she rests and giving a small shake of her head, "I don't either. You mean so much to me that getting to be close to you is wonderful." With a warm hug she adds, "It's even more wonderful when it's ''this'' close."<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The secret is that Madoka can lose herself just as easily as Homura. If they traded places there'd be a good chance she'd drift off to sleep being held so close, but right now she's actively snuggling and admiring her sweetheart. It feels like an indulgence to be able to hold her like this, and today Madoka is 'greedily' letting herself indulge.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura blushes at her words and Madoka's smile widens. She sets out a cup and carefully opens the lemonade container with one hand, securing Homura close to herself with the other, half filling the cup and then closing the container before lifting it up to Homura's lips. "Here you go, sweety," she offers, tilting the cup slowly and carefully so there's no chance of spilling, letting Homura drink as much or as little as she likes. The drink itself is fresh and tart, with just enough sweetness to take the edge off and let the citrus of the lemons shine.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura hadn't really thought about how quickly Madoka and Homura started getting along. To her, they had met each other over and over, and this is the first time they had more than a month and a half to spend with each other. Both of them were pretty okay with opening up to each other, and when Homura really needed someone to turn to she did end up knocking on Madoka's window.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To Homura, Madoka just seems naturally friendly. Add that to the fact that Madoka had only recently moved back to Mitakihara in this timeline and didn't have any friends, and it actually isn't that surprising to Homura that Madoka wanted a friend. When the ties from other timelines start factoring in, it becomes even less surprising, though Homura wouldn't have any idea that those were an issue until this timeline.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura is being greedy herself, but she assumes that Madoka must be liking it a bit because she did ask to hold her like this. It's so easy for her to get comfortable in her beloved's arms. It's one of the reasons she keeps going for it every time she gets a chance to cuddle. If it happens to spoil Madoka, well... Homura did say that she intended to do that, didn't she?<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It is wonderful, isn't it? I really could do this forever, you know. I love it so much, being close to you and loving you and being loved by you."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura quietly waits as Madoka prepares a glass of lemonade, allowing her eyes to flutter open so that she can see what's going on around her (and so she doesn't accidentally spill anything). She parts her lips slightly as Madoka brings up the cup, tasting the lemonade as her beloved feeds it to her. This is most certainly self-indulgent for Homura. She can't help but wonder what she did to get this kind of response from Madoka.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After the cup is pulled away, Homura licks her lips briefly and says, "Thank you, Madoka-chan. It tasted wonderful."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In all the timelines where Madoka stayed in Mitakihara she had no issues having regular friends. Those troubles arose when she was taken to America and away from Sayaka, who she had met early in childhood, and Hitomi, who the two girls met a bit later. Adding in a language barrier and completely different social attitudes and norms did a real number on her confidence.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura might be spoiling her a little by letting her hold her and cuddle her like this for as long as she likes. On the other side of things Madoka is quietly hoping Homura feels at least a little spoiled herself from this kind of attention. Her darling most certainly deserves to feel an abundance of love and care.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Being loved by you and loving you might be the most wonderful thing in the whole world, Homura-chan. It's easy to understand why people have written so many songs and stories about love when I have you." Homura can feel Madoka shake a little as she giggles before she adds, "And poems!" Because how could she forget the poem Homura made up for her when surprising her at the hospital?<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka pulls the cup away when Homura is finished, smiling sweetly down to her. "You're welcome, Homura-chan. I"m glad you like it. Do you want any more?" She pours more lemonade into the cup, wanting a bit for herself even if Homura has had enough.

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura can't help but enjoy the attention that Madoka gives her. Is she a little spoiled? Maybe a bit. Madoka is giving her so much right now, so Homura certainly feels pampered. It might be more than Homura thinks she deserves, but if her little angel is offering it to her then why not? Homura really can't justify saying no to this when it feels so wonderful, and especially when Madoka seems to enjoy giving her this level of affection.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura smiles, somewhat sheepishly, at the mention of the poem. She didn't think it was a big deal, though she ''did'' hope that Madoka would like it. The fact that she's still mentioning it implies that she did. Thinking back, it really was a nice White Day, and the first that Homura had actually spent with someone important to her.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well, literature is often about describing how you feel, and being in love with you I know I feel a lot. Certainly enough to sing about." Well, that's not an exaggeration. Both of them have sung about it in the past.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Has Homura had enough? Ehhh, she really ''would'' feel spoiled if Madoka gave her any more. Even if she's offering, Homura feels maybe a little guilty about having her girlfriend feed her like this. This ''is'' indulgent. "I'm fine, thanks."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She smirks slightly at the thought that Madoka might be getting an indirect kiss via drinking from the same cup as her. Homura doesn't mind that at all~.

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka closes her eyes as she drinks lemonade from the cup. If Homura likes imagining that they're sharing an indirect kiss by that she can see it right there in front of her! Madoka lets out a small giggle while smiling after finishing the drink, setting the cup down and then putting the lemonade container away where it's sure not to spill since they both seem done with it. After she does her eyes go to the rest of the food that's also out... her father really does make sure to pack more than enough!<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I could probably write about how I feel also, but I'm not sure it would be very good to anyone but me," Madoka admits playfully. She then considers what others might think about her singing to Homura and blushes brightly. It's not like she doesn't sing in public for Karaoke anyway... but somehow the idea of it is embarrassing! More embarrassing than actually kissing her in public, somehow.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She slides her arm back around Homrua's waist and holds her close with both arms, indulging herself in the warmth and closeness of her girlfriend some more. "I'll need to clean up soon so things don't go bad, but I want to hold you a little longer." She tilts her head down a little and peeks at Homura meekly, "Thank you again for letting me hold you like this. I've really enjoyed it."

:'''{{#var:23|Homura Akemi| (23)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a small glint in Homura's eyes as Madoka drinks from the same cup. It's not ''that'' big of a deal, since they kiss all the time, and passionately! Yet all the same it still satisfies her mischievous whims.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura looks over the food. There's plenty left, and it's unlikely that Homura will be much help in finishing it. It's so good, but the dark-haired Puella knows her limits. Besides, she's really enjoying being held like this, and that's where most of her focus is right now.<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She considers the idea of Madoka writing her love poetry. The thought of it makes her giggle. "Madoka-chan, I think I'd like it if it was from you. You don't have to, and even if you do then it doesn't have to be perfect, but from you something like that would be precious. We wouldn't be the first amateurs writing love poetry to each other." She snuggles against Madoka, saying, "... no pressure, though. Don't feel like you have to do it."<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura nods as Madoka mentions needing to clean up soon. "I'll be happy help when it's time to clean up... but please, hold onto me for as long as you like." She nuzzles her nose against Madoka's chin. "Thank you, Madoka-chan, for always being wonderful to me. Even holding me like this is wonderful and sweet."

:'''{{#var:8|Madoka Kaname| (8)}} has posed:'''<br><span></span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Homura probably will be some help in finishing it; just not today. The sushi will probably be delivered back to Madoka's family for eating because it's best fresh anyway, but the fruit will still be good for at least another day. Riceballs also make good midnight snacks if one is inclined towards those. Madoka sometimes is, having gotten used to late night conversations with her parents from time to time.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madoka giggles a little as Homura says she'd like it if it was from her, only to laugh a bit more nervously. Poetry? She meant stories and books! "Eheheheh," she laughs softly, "I wasn't thinking of poetry. You've already written me a poem that was very nice, though." Still, if it's something Homura would enjoy... She leans her head against Homura's and nuzzles against her as the other girl snuggles on her.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Thanks, I'd appreciate it," Madoka replies with a smile to Homura's offer of help cleaning up. She meant what she said about wanting to stay close a bit longer, though. "Okay, I will!" She says with a giggle, peeking down at Homura's nose and smiling before giving the bridge of it a tiny kiss, so perfectly positioned is it. She rocks from side to side afterwards, rubbing against Homura lightly so that their dresses rustle together.<br /> <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I really like being held, myself. That's why I sit in your lap sometimes," she admits bashfully. "But today I wanted to hold you in my arms instead, to cradle you and cuddle you the way I like to be. So you could get a chance to enjoy it also." She giggles softly, "Not that we don't snuggle together all the time... but having someone you love hold you like you're special and precious is a little different." She presses a soft kiss to Homura's temple before saying quietly, "And you are precious and special to me, Homura-chan."
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