She groans, wrapping her arms around her head to muffle the sounds.
She doesn't want to go to school today.
The alarm continues relentlessly, and she hears a familiar whine next to her ear. She feels pressure against her neck, before another low grumble is heard.
She sighs, and forces her eyes open. There's light peeking through the curtains, and she blinks a few times, and waits for her eyes to readjust. With another groan, she moves over to turn off the alarm. Even with Homura attached to her, she eventually leans close enough to tap the button to disable the sound.
There's a faint hum in her ears as the alarm shuts off, and she remains sprawled across the bed, still not willing to fully wake up.
A few minutes pass, before she sits up in panic when she realizes she hadn't done her homework last night. Just as she's about to pry Homura off her, she catches sight of their rumpled clothes—and finally remembers that today is Friday.
That they have no school today, because they're going to Tokyo.
Tokyo.
There's a nagging thought in her mind, and she frowns as she tries to remember. Her eyes widen: they had forgotten to pack.
She quickly shakes Homura awake. "Homura-chan. Homura-chan?"
Homura whines, her ears flattening as she tries to bury her face into Madoka's chest.
"I need to pack, Homura-chan. You can—sleep, I'll pack for us, but can you let go, Homura-chan?"
Homura grumbles, but does as told, and once she's free, Madoka scoots off the bed.
/
"Good morning, Sayaka-san."
Sayaka holds out an arm in greeting. "Morning, Hitomi."
Hitomi starts walking, and Sayaka matches her pace. The air is still heavy between them, and Sayaka nervously grips her school bag as they continue in silence.
Hitomi glances at her briefly, before she sets her gaze straight ahead. "...Madoka-san, and Akemi-san should be leaving to Tokyo soon."
Sayaka nods. "Y-Yeah. The train ride will take a few hours supposedly..."
Hitomi absently tucks stray strands of hair behind her ear. "Close to three hours, actually. Or longer, depending on which train they're taking."
Sayaka looks at her. "Ahhh, that's right, you went there for uhm, your recital last year." She gives a strained smile, lifting her hand to place it behind her head. "Guess I'm the only that hasn't been there; just you wait, though, I'll definitely visit one day!"
Hitomi closes her eyes. "Yes, I am sure you will have the opportunity to visit sometime in the near future..." Her eyes open. "Sayaka-san."
Sayaka sighs; she knew this was coming, and yet—
Hitomi stops walking and turns to face her, and Sayaka does the same.
"About Kamijou-kun—"
"I'm not going to confess," Sayaka blurts out.
Hitomi sucks in a breath. "W-What? Why—"
"I give up—on him—for you." Sayaka shakes her head. "I mean—you... can date him, Hitomi. I give up on Kyousuke."
Hitomi's hands bunch into fists, and her eyebrows are drawn as she glares at Sayaka. "Why would you—" She cuts herself off, and takes a deep breath to calm down. "...I will only accept your words if you give me a good reason."
Sayaka glances around, noting the curious looks they're gaining because they're standing in the middle of a busy road.
"Sayaka-san."
When she turns back to face Hitomi, she's surprised to see her eyes are almost shining with unshed tears.
She straightens up, matching Hitomi's intense stare with her own. "It—wouldn't work out between me and Kyousuke."
Hitomi opens her mouth, but Sayaka barrels forward.
"I have—other things that are important to me. I have... things to do—that take priority over him. He—has his music, and I have my own things to worry about." She grips her bag tightly. "...It wouldn't be fair to him, or to you, for me to confess when I have no expectations of becoming his girlfriend."
Hitomi glances to the floor, her brow furrowed as she processes Sayaka's words. "Can I ask what it is?"
"It's..." Sayaka's voice trails off.
"...Does this involve Madoka-san and Akemi-san somehow?"
Sayaka averts her eyes. "Uh, no, why would you think that?" She clears her throat as she raises her eyes once more. "This is—something I resolved to do on my own, for myself, by myself."
Hitomi slowly lifts her chin. "...Very well. If this is what you have decided, then I can only accept. Thank you for being truthful with me, Sayaka-san." She bows, and Sayaka immediately holds her hands out.
"Uh, there's no need for that, Hitomi! I'm just... I'm sorry, I wasn't able to give you a clearer answer earlier..."
Hitomi shakes her head. "No, it's understandable. I apologize for antagonizing you, and demanding an answer before you had time to process what was happening. I—" she stares at Sayaka, her eyes boring into hers, "...are you positive that this is what you want to do, Sayaka-san?"
Sayaka can picture it in her mind—Hitomi, and Kyousuke, walking side by side. Laughing, and sitting together during lunch. Walking home together, and—
She clamps down on that anger, on that darkness that threatens to cloud her soul gem. She can now admit that yes, her wish had been selfish, and she wants nothing more than to tell Kyousuke—to tell Hitomi the truth. But—
She's a magical girl now; just another faceless hero.
Hitomi can go home after school, not having to worry about things lurking around the the corner. Kyousuke can play his violin, his only worry to be about his next recital.
And even if Hitomi and Kyousuke are together, it doesn't mean that she's alone.
More than those gentle brown eyes in her head, she can see sharp crimson, and golden yellow staring at her.
She nods, feeling empty, yet somehow relieved. "Yeah. I—" She takes in a deep breath, before exhaling, "I wish you and Kyousuke the best of luck, Hitomi."
"I..." Hitomi stares at her, her eyes still shining, "...thank you, Sayaka-san."
\\
All packed, and hair still damp from their quick showers, Madoka and Homura are now dressed for the day and sitting at the kitchen table.
Despite having no appetite, Madoka bites into her toast as an excuse to not talk. She's too mentally exhausted to carry a conversation, and Homura is more or less half asleep as her eyes have closed twice now as she sips at her milk. Luckily, Junko mistakes the atmosphere to be because of their impending trip to Tokyo, and she and Tomohisa, with occasional words from Takkun, fill in the gaps of silence from the two girls.
They take their time eating, and Madoka eventually feels her spirits lifting; she even manages to crack a smile at her mother's joke.
Once breakfast is finished, and after a quick check of their things, they start heading towards the car.
"Meow."
Homura stops walking as she feels a weight on her shoulder.
"Meow." Amy headbutts her, and she reaches up to pet her on the head.
"...I don't think it'll keep though," she murmurs.
"Meow."
"I'll see." Homura scratches behind Amy's ear. "Be good, okay?"
"Meow."
Junko and Tomohisa share a smile. Takkun continues pushing their luggage forward, and they follow him out the door.
"Take care of them, okay?" Homura tells Amy.
"Meow."
"I'll be fine. I'm more worried about you."
"Meow."
Homura sighs.
Madoka reaches over and lifts Amy from her shoulders. "We'll be back soon, Amy," she says as she hugs Amy close.
Amy purrs in response, rubbing her head against her, before she squeezes out from Madoka's arms, and jumps to the floor.
"Meow."
Homura scowls, but Amy is already trotting away towards Madoka's room.
Madoka sighs this time, and gently pats Homura's head. "Let's go, Homura-chan."
Homura turns to her, and her whine turns into a purr when Madoka scratches her lightly where her ears should be.
"O-Okay," she murmurs.
Madoka nods and takes her hand, pulling her along as they walk to the entrance.
/
They're minutes away from leaving the house when Madoka notices two figures approaching the driveway in the rear view mirror.
She turns to the girl sleeping against her shoulder. "Homura-chan..." She gently runs her fingers through the other girl's hair.
Lavender slowly opens to blink at her confusion.
"Mami-chan and Kyouko-chan are here. I'll be right back." Madoka turns to Takkun who is sitting in his car seat. "You stay with Kitty, okay, Takkun?"
"'Kay," he replies, briefly glancing up from his projector screen to acknowledge her.
Homura reluctantly pulls away to let Madoka exit the car. Mami is greeting Junko and Tomohisa, exchanging polite words when Madoka walks over.
"We'll go drop these off and make sure the doors are locked," Junko says as she drags Tomohisa with her.
Mami bows to them once more, before she smiles at Madoka. "Madoka-chan. How are you feeling?"
"Mm, I'm okay..." She shrugs. "Homura-chan is sleeping in the car."
Mami nods. She holds out the bundle in her hands. "I packed a bentou for you two to eat on your way there. I also included some snacks, in case it's not enough." She tilts her head, and Madoka glances down.
"Thank you, Mami-chan," she murmurs as she accepts it.
"Of course. Kyouko helped as well."
Madoka turns to the silent Kyouko standing behind Mami. "Thank you, Kyouko-chan."
Stick of pocky in her mouth, Kyouko shrugs. "S'yeah. Don't go eating everything all at once though." She raises her eyebrow, and Madoka knows she's implying more than said.
She nods. "Yes, we'll... try and limit how much we eat. Thank you again."
Mami is nervously twisting her hands, and Kyouko nudges her with her elbow, prompting her to finally step forward.
It's a whiff of flowery perfume, before arms hold Madoka tightly.
"Please, stay safe," Mami tells her. "Both you, and Akemi-chan, okay, Madoka-chan?"
With one hand holding the bentou, Madoka hugs Mami with the other. "...Thank you, Mami-chan."
Mami pulls away, only to place her hands on Madoka's shoulders. "Don't hesitate to contact us for whatever reason. Just say the word, and one of us will be on the earliest train there."
Madoka nods. "I... Thank you, Mami-chan..."
Mami steps back. "Of course."
"Madoka, are you girls about done?"
They turn to face Junko who walks over to slip her arm around Madoka's shoulder.
"Yes, Mama." Madoka holds out the bentou in her hands. "Mami-chan and Kyouko-chan made us a bentou as well."
Junko smiles. "You two will have plenty to eat on the way there then. Thank you girls for going out of your way, and for dropping off their bags. Are you sure you're all right missing school?" she asks, eying Mami's uniform.
Mami smooths down her skirt. "Ah, I already received permission from my homeroom teacher. He knows I will be absent from my morning classes."
Junko nods in approval. "Responsible as well as considerate." She glances to Kyouko, noting her casual clothes.
Mami clears her throat. "Kyouko is in the middle of transferring to the school; she hasn't started yet."
Kyouko scowls to herself, eyes concentrated to the side.
"Ah." Junko squeezes Madoka's arm. "Well, we should be going. I would offer you two a ride, but..."
Mami holds out her hands. "That's alright, Kaname-san. We'll be fine walking."
"Kaname-san is what they call my parents," Junko replies with a wink. "Junko is fine. I'll have to treat you girls to dinner when Madoka and Homura get back." Mami's eyes widen, and is about to protest when Junko gestures to the bentou that Madoka is holding, "as a thank you, for that, and for coming to visit even though you didn't have to."
Mami bows her head, flushing lightly. "I-It's no trouble at all."
Junko waves her off. "I'll have Madoka get in touch with you two later and we'll plan something out. It was nice seeing you again, Mami-chan." She glances to Kyouko. "And, Kyouko-chan, was it?"
Kyouko has her hands stuffed in her jacket pockets, and she hunches in her shoulders. "...Yeah."
"It was nice meeting you, Kyouko-chan. Thank you two again."
"Thank you," Madoka echoes.
Junko leads Madoka to the car, and she gives them a small wave over her shoulder.
Kyouko follows Mami to the street, and they wait, watching as Junko's car backs out from the driveway. The car stops as Junko waves to them through the window, and Mami bows once more.
Moments later, the Kaname family and Homura are disappearing around the corner.
Kyouko pulls out a familiar red box. "Think they'll be okay?"
Mami sighs. "I hope so."
Kyouko shakes the box at her, offering her a stick. She glances at it briefly, before she reaches over.
/
"Now, remember to call me when you two arrive," Junko tells her as she places her hands on the side Madoka's face.
"Okay, Mama. I will."
Junko turns to Homura who's trying to stifle a yawn against her hand. "Homura."
She blinks and lifts her head.
Junko pulls Homura in for a hug, squishing her against Madoka. "You two, be careful okay?" She kisses the top of their heads. "We'll be waiting for you to come back."
Madoka blinks back the sudden tears, her own arms tightening around her mom. "Okay, Mama."
Junko holds them for another minute, before she finally lets go.
"Madoka." Tomohisa holds out his free arm, Takkun mimicking him as his dad carries him.
Madoka gives her dad a teary smile as she accepts his hug, and her smile widens when Takkun pats her on the head. She moves away, and they all turn to Homura who is still standing in front of Junko.
Takkun waves his arm at her. "Kittyyy."
Junko gently pushes her forward.
"Have a safe trip, Homura-chan," Tomohisa tells her.
She glances to the floor. "T-Thank you..." She blinks when she feels someone rubbing her head.
"No more bad dreams for Kitty," Takkun chants out.
"...Thank you, Takkun."
The chime rings from the speakers, signaling the arrival of the train.
Junko gives them both another hug, keeping her arms around them as they wait to board.
"Have a safe trip," Junko tells them once the outgoing passengers have exited.
Madoka nods, one hand holding Homura's, while the other holds their lone suitcase.
"Don't forget to call when you arrive!"
"I wont, Mama. We'll see you later. Bye!"
They step inside, and after giving her family one last wave, Madoka leads Homura further in, until she spots their reserved seats. She helps Homura store their luggage into the overhead compartment, and just as they place their bags down, the train chimes once more, signalling their departure.
Still standing, Madoka can see her family on the platform, waiting for the train to leave. She watches them for a moment: Tomohisa is still carrying Takkun as Junko stands right beside them.
She feels a tug on her jacket, prompting her to turn around.
"You should sit down, Madoka," Homura murmurs.
She blinks, and there's a jolt as the train pulls forward. She's thrown off balance, but before she pitches forward, there's another tug on her jacket, and she ends up falling back. Arms are around her waist, and she tilts her head to look behind her.
"Are you alright, Madoka...?"
She remains sitting in Homura's lap, enjoying the warmth from their contact. She closes her eyes, listening as the train slowly picks up in speed as it continues to travel down the tracks.
"Madoka...?"
"Yeah," she whispers. "I'm—okay. Thank you, Homura-chan."
\\
An hour into their ride, and the constant thrum of the moving train is slowly lulling her to sleep. Homura is leaning against her shoulder, and she's resting her head against hers.
She doesn't know what to expect in Tokyo—but the further they travel, the more she's looking forward to it.
Tokyo—is unknown to her. Other than a short trip that she barely remembers when she was around Takkun's age, she knows nothing else of it besides what she has seen in pictures and heard on the news.
If she walks the streets, closing her eyes won't make her remember ruins and broken buildings. She won't remember the view from above as everyone below cowers in fear.
She—
She swallows heavily, forcing her whimper back down.
"Madoka...?"
She turns her head to find Homura staring at her, brows furrowed in worry.
"Are you alright?"
She turns, pressing her face against Homura's shoulder. "I'm-I'm okay..."
Homura moves her hand, grasping Madoka's in her own. "I'm here," she murmurs.
Madoka feels her lips tremble, and she places her free hand against her eyes to stop from crying.
Homura—is here, for now.
But—how long until she's not?
/
Mami glances to the stairs, having long since sensed Sayaka's pending arrival. She is surprised to see her by herself however, and continues to eat her lunch as she waits for Sayaka to join them.
"Yo," Kyouko calls out to her, mouth full.
Sayaka takes a seat, and remains quiet for another minute as she stares down at her unopened bentou.
"Sayaka?" Mami lowers her chopsticks.
"...Hitomi went to talk with Kyousuke," she says softly.
"With Pretty Boy? They hooking up?"
Mami shoots Kyouko a glare, who responds by stuffing another omelette into her mouth.
Sayaka sighs. "I—told her that it was fine—t-that I'm okay with them... dating."
"...Are you really, Sayaka?" Mami stares at her, looking for the telltale signs.
They see Sayaka grip her bentou tightly, before she slowly relaxes. "Y-Yeah. I'm, uh, fine." She quickly slaps her cheeks. "I'm fine," she repeats as she plasters a smile on her face.
Kyouko taps her on the head with her knuckles. "Geez, no one's telling you to push yourself. If you're sad, then be sad. It's better than that sorry excuse you have for a smile."
The smile disappears. "Y-Yeah..."
"So, since you're so sad, that means I can have your lunch, right?"
Mami sighs in exasperation as Sayaka slaps Kyouko's hand away.
She turns around to face her, and her response dies on her lips. "...Whoa."
Kyouko glances away, lightly flushing and suddenly self conscious. "W-What?"
Sayaka gestures, and her bentou almost falls from her lap. She catches it, before she holds out one hand to Kyouko, pointing at her.
"Y-You're—"
"Mami insisted," Kyouko growls, "since Seaweed girl made such a big deal last time. If I had known she wouldn't be here, I wouldn't have bothered!"
Sayaka grins. "You look... almost normal."
Kyouko glares as she tugs on her skirt. "And what does that mean?"
Sayaka turns back to her lunch, feeling better now for some reason. "Guess you clean up nicely, street rat."
"You—!" Kyouko lunges at her, but Mami holds out her hand, and Kyouko barely manages to duck before she runs into it. "Hey!"
"It is nice seeing you wear different clothes, Kyouko," Mami agrees. "Maybe we should go shopping, and get you some new outfits."
Kyouko immediately backs away. "What—"
"Bet you'd look nice in something pink and frilly," Sayaka tells her, still grinning.
Kyouko scowls, and turns back to her own bentou. "We got better things to do than to go shopping. Does a giant, deadly Witch touching down in about a week or so ring a bell?"
"As if anyone could forget," Sayaka shoots back.
"Well, there's not much we can do, except to patrol, and to go over those notes that Akemi-chan left us. Those two won't be back until Tuesday..." Mami trails off, frowning lightly in worry.
"...What do you think about that stuff, anyways?" Sayaka asks in between bites. "I tried looking it over last night, but there's a bunch of numbers and stuff that I don't get."
She hears Kyouko scoff.
"What, don't tell me you understood it?"
Kyouko sticks out her tongue, showing her bits of chewed food.
"Kyouko," Mami warns.
Kyouko swallows her food, before she replies. "Kitty Cat pretty much just gave us a bunch of statistics and calculations. Like where Walpurgisnacht'll appear, or whatever."
Mami nods, staring into her bentou as she recalls Homura's notes. "Some are easy enough to understand. Some, however... unfortunately, without her explanations, we'll have to figure it out on our own, or wait for her to tell us when they return..."
Sayaka sighs. "Figures that her notes are just as cryptic as their owner. What do you think happened with Madoka, anyways? D-Did she seem okay, when you saw her this morning? I messaged her, but..."
"Considering her emotional state yesterday... she seemed stable," Mami gently replies.
Sayaka bows her head. "I should've gone..."
Mami places a hand on her shoulder. "...Madoka-chan will come around. She's not the type to stay angry."
Sayaka sighs. "Y-Yeah..."
"As for what had happened," Mami tilts her head up, gaze cast to the sky, "...we won't know until they return. I have a few theories, and a few suspicions, but... whatever it is, it's... probably tied to Akemi-chan."
"Homura, huh..." Sayaka pokes at her rice. "Everything always goes back to her... Everything about her is so suspicious..."
Kyouko lowers her now empty bentou onto the bench. "Don't know; don't really care."
Sayaka frowns. "What—"
Kyouko shrugs. "If Kitty Cat wanted to, she probably could've offed us whenever. Have you seen her move? Yeah, maybe she's weak as hell, but all she has to do is use her speed and bam!" She smacks her fist into her open hand. "We'd be gone before you could even blink. So what, she's got an agenda with Walpurgisnacht? Anybody who does probably has a pretty good damn reason; I mean, the stories you hear about that Witch leveling cities as she breezes past... who wouldn't have an agenda against her?"
"But—"
Kyouko points at Sayaka. "Maybe you got an agenda with Kitty Cat. You ever think of that?"
"W-What?"
Mami narrows her eyes. "Kyouko."
Kyouko shakes her head. "Whatever." She moves to stand. "Thanks for lunch, Mami. I'm gonna head out now. I want to get out of these clothes and it's easier to sneak out when there's students by the front." She turns to Sayaka. "Remember what I told you. It still hasn't changed, and whatever Kitty Cat's reason is, it still doesn't matter. You'll get no sympathy points from Pinkie if you end up losing, by the way."
Mami sighs. "Kyouko."
"See you." Kyouko holds out an arm as she walks away.
Sayaka slumps over. "Geez, she's not one to pull punches, is she?"
"No, not really..." Mami looks towards the stairs, and barely catches sight of red before it disappears. "...She wasn't always like that though."
Sayaka glances over. "Mami-san... Can I ask you something?"
"Go right ahead, Sayaka."
"...What's—your reason for hanging on? H-How do you fight through everything, every day? How... do you stay strong?"
Mami stares at her bentou, mulling over her words.
She sighs, already knowing her answer. "...Because, I'm a coward."
Sayaka blinks in confusion. "W-What? You're—the strongest magical girl here! You're—"
Mami smiles sadly. "My wish—was a selfish one. Even if I was under duress... my first thought was that 'I don't want to die.' I'm not sure how things would've gone if I had saved my parents; maybe they would've succumbed to death in a different way, considering the nature of wishes..."
She shakes her head.
"...But even now, every night that I'm out there, fighting for my life... All I can think is that 'I don't want to die.' There are... many, many things I still want to do." She glances up. "...Before I met you girls, I was debating whether or not to continue onto high school. It'll be difficult to maintain my grades as I study for exams and patrol. I heard that it's also mandatory to join a club as well... it would just be a lot easier for me to carry on my duties as a magical girl without having to worry about school."
She turns to smile at Sayaka.
"But, I realize now, that if I give up that opportunity, I won't be able to gain it back. 'I don't want to die,' does not just mean that I don't want to die; it means that I want to live, and I want to experience all that life can give me. Yes, every day that I fight, I'm afraid that I won't walk out of that barrier alive. But if I walk in, unafraid, it means I have given up; I'm afraid because I don't want to die. Because I have things outside, waiting for me."
She reaches over and takes Sayaka's hand.
"We fight, because we want to live. There will always be doubt inside your heart, Sayaka. And anger, and pain. Lonely nights, where you'll think to yourself 'why me?' Nights where you'll wonder if it's easier to just give in; to walk into a barrier, and never walk back out. But I'm a coward, Sayaka, and that's what's keeping me alive."
"Mami-san..."
Mami lets go to wipe her eyes. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..."
Sayaka shakes her head. "I'm... a coward too, Mami-san. I... maybe we can be cowards, together."
Mami laughs softly. "Kyouko probably wouldn't like that nickname very much."
Sayaka frowns. "She's not..."
"We're all running away from things, Sayaka. I think—that's really what it means to make a wish... Only those willing to run away from reality are granted wishes."
Sayaka lowers her eyes. "Y-Yeah," she murmurs. "...Then, what's Homura running from?"
"That," Mami shakes her head, "I have no idea."
\\
She drifts in and out of sleep, several times her own voice waking her as she barely manages to suppress her screams. Each time though, Homura is there, holding her close, murmuring into her ear.
After another restless nap, she forces herself awake, leaning against Homura's shoulder as she tries to ignore the voices in her head.
"Are you hungry?" Homura asks softly.
She lifts her head. "...A little."
Homura nods, and reaches for the bentou that Mami had packed for them. The grief seeds that had been inside are already safely tucked away, and it's the simple task of unwrapping the cloth, before popping open the lid. It's a colourful assortment of foods, and Homura feels her own stomach growl as she sees the grilled fish that Mami had included.
She hands Madoka a pair of chopsticks.
"Thank you, Homura-chan." She sits up. "It looks good. We'll have to thank Mami-chan again..."
Homura nods even as her own chopsticks are heading towards the fish.
Between the two of them, they manage to finish everything in no time, and Homura leaves the chopsticks inside as she rewraps the bentou to set it aside.
Stomach full, Madoka leans back against her seat. The food had served as a distraction, and had provided a little bit of comfort; she feels better.
She turns, and smiles when she sees Homura using the back of her hand to rub her mouth. "Homura-chan."
Homura freezes, and pulls her hand back before she can lick it. She frowns; that had been completely involuntarily.
Before she can say anything though, Madoka is leaning over, and a moment later, there's a cloth against her mouth. Once she's sure that Homura's clean, Madoka settles back into her seat.
"...The hotel is really close to the station," Madoka murmurs as she repockets her handkerchief.
Face slightly flushed, Homura glances out the window. "T-That's good. It'll be easier to navigate around the city..."
Madoka closes her eyes. "...Where does your aunt live, Homura-chan?"
"Closer to downtown."
"That's not too far away, is it...?"
Homura shakes her head, before she realizes that Madoka has her eyes closed. "No. It's only half an hour from the station."
"...Mm..."
Homura glances over, noticing that Madoka is starting to fall asleep again. She takes her hand, squeezing it lightly.
She'll be ready.
\\
Madoka wakes once more, but it's not because of another vision dancing in her mind. She blinks sleepily, eyes half closed as she watches Homura purchase three milk boxes from the cart vendor. She knows that Homura had restrained from buying everything, and once the cart is pushed forward, Madoka reaches over to pat Homura on the head.
Homura holds out one of the boxes to her.
"Thank you, Homura-chan," she says, accepting it as she sits up.
"We'll be in Tokyo in half an hour or so," Homura mumbles as she keeps her eyes down, concentrating on poking the straw through the container.
Madoka nods as she does the same. She takes a sip, letting the familiar taste of the strawberry milk wash over her tongue. Before she's even halfway done with hers, she once again hears the sound of empty air from Homura's straw, and smiles to herself.
"I'm going to go use the restroom, Madoka," Homura says as she places the empty boxes aside.
"Okay."
She hears rustling, and turns her head to see Homura digging something out from her side bag. There's a flash of red, before whatever it is is slipped into Homura's jacket. She blinks, but Homura is standing, and then stepping past her.
"Be right back," Homura murmurs as she heads to the back of the train.
Madoka finishes her drink, and is listening to the dull thunk of metal as the train continues when Homura returns. She moves her legs to allow Homura through, and freezes when she sees a familiar pair of glasses perched on Homura's face.
"I'm—A-Akemi, Homura. N-Nice to meet you."
"I—people don't call me by my first name very often—because it's so strange..."
"It's a cool name, Homura-chan! You just have to become cool, too!"
There's a hand on her arm, and she gasps as she's pulled from her memories.
"Are you alright, Madoka?"
Instead of answering, she reaches forward, until her hand is cupping Homura's cheek. She stares at those familiar glasses; at that familiar lavender gaze behind them.
She can see it clearly: a shy, timid Homura with her long hair tied in braids.
She blinks, and the tears from her eyes fall down.
"Homura-chan... You..." Her words catch in her throat, and she blinks once more.
Homura glances around nervously, before she grabs Madoka's hand, pulling it down to rest in her lap. "...I usually use my magic to offset my nearsightedness. I want to lessen the amount of magic my body is using to lower our chances of being tracked by another magical girl."
Madoka nods, her eyes closing as she hears an echo in her head—Homura's voice, quieter, and with a constant stammer.
She opens her eyes. "What about your heart...?" Her eyes flicker down briefly, glancing at Homura's grey shirt that's covering that jagged scar underneath.
"...I should be fine."
Her eyes narrow as she lifts her gaze, and Homura flinches.
"...I'm using more magic to supplement it... the little bit that should be going to my eyes..."
Madoka nods, and settles back against her seat. A second later, she sits up.
"I should use the restroom..." she murmurs as she moves to stand.
/
She stares blankly past the tracks, one hand looped around their suitcase as she waits for Madoka to finish talking with her mother.
She vaguely remembers coming here, how long ago, waiting on the platform that sits across from them. It had been winter then, and each breath had been accentuated with a puff of white air.
It's spring now, though the air still chills her throat.
Her eyes wander, and she sees the signs flashing across. They remind her that they're in Tokyo, where she has lived for most of her life.
Tokyo—the city that holds no meaning to her anymore.
"Okay, Mama. I know. Yes, we're going to head to the hotel now. Uh huh..."
Homura glances over when Madoka takes her hand.
"Okay. Okay... alright. Love you too. Okay..." Madoka holds out the phone to Homura, who hesitates before she accepts it.
"Hello...?"
"Like I told Madoka, don't hesitate to buy whatever you want, okay? I gave her access to my credit line; spoil yourself when you're there."
"...O-Okay, thank you, Junko-san."
"Mmhmm. I need to get back to work now, but, take care of yourself, okay, Homura? You and Madoka."
"O-Okay..."
She hears Junko sigh softly. "We'll be waiting for you two to come back."
"...Okay."
"I'll talk to you two later."
"...Okay. Bye Junko-san, thank you again..."
There's a click on the line, and Homura lowers the phone. She hands it over to Madoka, who takes it, and slips it away into her pocket.
"Now," Madoka says as she turns to her, "time find our hotel."
Homura nods as she reaches for their suitcase, but Madoka snags it before she can.
"I have it, Homura-chan," she says as she starts leading them down the platform.
Homura blinks, but knows better than to argue, and merely follows her.
/
After asking one of the workers at the station, they're pointed to the direction of where they can hail a taxi. The station itself is bustling with commuters, and the unfamiliar sights has Madoka's eyes wandering; if they have time later, maybe they could explore...
"Homura-chan," she turns to the other girl, and finds Homura staring at one of the many vending machines located inside. She already knows what Homura is looking at, and gently tugs her towards the machine. "Which one did you want, Homura-chan?"
Homura glances at her, before she ducks her head, and points to the top left drink.
Madoka resists shaking her head; of course Homura would want strawberry.
She keys the amount wanted, before she scans her phone along the scanner. There's a small rumble heard as the drinks fall, and when Madoka looks over, she smiles when she sees Homura watching the machine eagerly.
A beep, signaling it's done, and Homura dives towards the chute. She pulls out five milk boxes, looking absolutely ecstatic as she straightens up.
"Let's sit over there," Madoka nods towards an empty bench.
"Okay..."
It doesn't take long for Homura to finish her milk, and Madoka quickly tugs her along as two kids sitting nearby continue to stare at Homura in awe.
"We'll get more, later," Madoka murmurs as she searches the signs, looking for the exit.
"Okay..."
\
It's not too hard to find a vacant taxi, and after their luggage is stored, Madoka tells the driver their destination. It's entered into the GPS, before the driver heads towards their hotel.
Madoka leans back against her seat, her eyes staring out the window. She glances over to Homura, wondering how she feels now that she's back; Homura's face gives nothing away.
She sighs softly as her eyes close. They immediately open again when something flashes through her mind, and she tries to swallow the lump in her throat.
Homura presses her hand against hers, and she squeezes back.
The hotel isn't too far from the station, and luckily for them, the driver remains quiet, letting the murmurs from the radio fill in the background noise. They pull up to the entrance soon enough. The driver opens the door, and they step outside. There's a light clatter as their suitcase is pulled out from the trunk, and Madoka hands him her phone once he places it down.
"Thank you," he says as he withdraws the correct amount.
Madoka nods. She's given back her phone, and they're both making their way to the entrance when the taxi drives away.
Hand still gripping Homura's, Madoka pulls her forward as the doors automatically open, and they enter.
There's a small line at the counter, and Madoka nervously glances around when she notices a few of the other guests looking their way, no doubt wondering where their parents are; they are the youngest ones inside.
As soon as it's their turn, Madoka takes a deep breath, before she steps up to the concierge counter.
"Hi, uhm, I have a reservation, for uhm, Kaname Madoka...?"
The woman nods. "Ah, you must be the daughter of Kaname Junko?"
Madoka blinks. "Yes. How did you...?"
The woman smiles. "Your mother already phoned ahead, saying that you would be checking in soon. All the paperwork has already been taken care of, but I'll still need you to sign in before I give you your keycards."
"O-Okay..."
It's a brief process, and after signing the needed papers, the attendant hands them a small envelop holding their keycards.
"Complimentary breakfast starts at 7am, and ends around 9:30am. The curfew for minors in this area begins at 10pm on weekdays, 11pm on weekends. Will you need help bringing your luggage up?"
Madoka shakes her head. "N-No. Uhm, w-we're okay..."
"The elevators are to your left. If you need anything, please feel free to call the front desk. We hope you enjoy your stay."
The woman bows, and Madoka bows in response. "T-Thank you," she murmurs.
One more polite bow, before Madoka steps away as Homura quietly follows after her.
Madoka double checks their room number. She pockets the envelope. "Let's go, Homura-chan."
"Okay..."
/
Their hotel room is a spacious room located on the fifth floor. There's a small balcony on the outside, with a view of a small park below that's nestled in between random shops. She squints, and recognizes one of the larger signs; she makes a mental note to maybe go there later for milk.
She turns, and does a quick check of their room.
In the middle is a single, King sized bed; most likely because she had told her mom about Homura's nightmares. The door to the bath is to the right, and straight across the bed is a small desk that sits right below the flat screen TV. To the left of the bed, is a small night stand with a desk clock placed on top. Past that and right by the entrance, is a mini bar with a small refrigerator tucked inside the cabinets, and a microwave in the corner. Their shoes are by the door, and their bags are sitting in a small pile on top of the dining table in front of the mini bar.
Her gaze returns to the bed, where Homura is sitting on the edge with her head bowed.
Madoka watches her for a moment, before she finally steps closer, her feet taking her across the carpet floor.
And even though the window is opened, and she can see the curtains fluttering from the breeze, the air inside is stifling; almost suffocating.
She takes a deep breath, eyes still concentrated on that slim figure sitting on the bed.
"...Homura-chan."
Homura flinches, her shoulders bunching in as her hands press into her knees.
"I..." Madoka finally stops a few steps in front of her. She swallows, and finds that lump is still there. "...Can you tell me now?" she asks quietly.
Homura curls her body forward, already knowing what she's referring to.
"...Yes," she mumbles. She lifts her head slightly, enough so that she can peer at Madoka who's still standing. "I... t-there was this—" her voice cuts off, and Madoka sees that her cat ears have appeared, now flat against her head. "...You were my first friend," Homura whispers. "I—was, I didn't fit in, w-when I transferred to Mitakihara. I-I couldn't answer a-any of the questions, a-and I couldn't participate in gym. I-I couldn't do anything..."
Madoka remains standing, watching as Homura's shoulders slowly shake.
"I was—t-there was a Witch," she continues, her voice hitching lightly, "a-and, you—you saved me." Homura hiccups, her hands smacking into her glasses as she forgets they're there. She tries again, this time lifting the frames as her hands brush away her tears. "Y-You were—amazing. I—wanted to be just like you..."
She swipes at her eyes once more.
"B-But, W-Walpurgisnacht came, a-and Tomoe-san h-had just died. I—wanted—" she bows her head, barely managing to bite back her sob, "I-I still couldn't make my w-wish. I-I was—a coward—w-who couldn't h-help you. Y-You went off—on your own—a-and you won. B-But-you had died."
Homura lifts her head, her teary eyes staring at Madoka who's—just watching her.
"...I made a wish," Homura whispers, "to save you. I—redid everything, all over again. I t-thought that, if... if I was there, then y-you wouldn't have died... t-that we could've defeated Walpurgisnacht together..."
Madoka can feel memories passing through her mind.
"...but it didn't work," Homura says softly. "S-So I went back. A-And I tried again. A-And again. A-And again..."
"Homura-chan..."
"I tried—everything I could. I—promised you, t-that I wouldn't let you be tricked by Kyuubey. T-That you wouldn't fall for the same trap." She grits her teeth, her tears falling freely as she bows her head. "B-But no matter what I did—I c-couldn't win."
Madoka finally steps forward to take a seat right next to her. The bed dips as her weight is added, and she places one arm around Homura's shoulder.
"...Why didn't you tell us? We could've—"
"I did!" Homura shouts, her eyes closed as she presses her fingers into her legs. "I t-told you-every time! B-But t-the longer I continued, t-the further we drifted away!" She angrily swipes at her eyes, this time knocking the glasses from her face and they tumble to the floor. Homura ignores them, turning her head away. "I told you—e-every time... b-but... you—stopped believing me, too," she whispers.
Madoka leans over, until her head is resting against Homura's. "...I'm so sorry, Homura-chan."
"I couldn't tell you, b-because I was afraid you wouldn't believe me." Homura turns to face her. "D-Do you believe me, Madoka?" she asks, voice small.
Madoka blinks, her own vision blurring at the tears in her eyes. Homura's story explained so much—that she realizes that she's afraid.
"Madoka...?"
She sucks in a breath—knowing that it's not just her who's afraid—but Homura as well.
She nods, and uses her jacket sleeve to wipe at her eyes. "I believe you, Homura-chan."
"Y-You do?"
She dabs at her eyes, before she lowers her arm to stare at Homura.
Homura—who's looking at her like her world rests solely on her shoulders. Who's waiting for those words—that will either make, or break her.
She nods again, her one hand reaching out to cup Homura's face. "I believe you, Homura-chan," she says softly.
Homura shoots forward with a loud wail, her arms wrapping around Madoka as they both fall back on the bed. Madoka stares past the white ceiling, her eyes seeing blue skies, and then murky grey ones.
Homura remains crying against her chest, and finally, she raises her own arms, encircling them around the trembling girl.
"Shhh, it's okay, Homura-chan," she murmurs, her hand stroking her ears. "It's-" her eyes continue searching above, "it's okay..." she breathes out.
She doesn't know how much time has passed, just that her eyes burn, and that her shirt is now soaked.
"Homura-chan...?"
Homura lifts her head.
"I..." she places her hand against her eyes. "...Then, I'm...? W-Who am I...?"
"K-Kaname Madoka," Homura answers softly. "Y-You're Kaname Madoka."
"But, all those people..."
Her hand is forced away, and a teary faced Homura is now above her. "T-That's not you! S-She's—not you! You're... you're Kaname Madoka."
"I'm...?"
Homura bows her head. "I'm sorry," she sobs out. "I-It's all my fault."
Madoka focuses her eyes on Homura.
"I... c-couldn't save you. N-No matter how hard I tried, i-it was always me, being saved by you..." Homura blinks, and a tear drops to Madoka's cheek. "...K-Kriemhild Gretchen... is the Witch of Salvation... her e-existence is my fault, because I'm not strong enough to save you..."
Madoka lifts her hand, using her fingers to wipe the tears from Homura's eyes. "...It's not your fault, Homura-chan."
"I-It is!" She pulls away from Madoka. "I r-realize it now—why your potential—w-why your power continues to grow... Every reset makes you s-stronger... I-I'm the reason... i-if only I could've made a w-wish... back then..."
Madoka slowly sits up. She leans forward once more, her arms wrapping around Homura. "It's not your fault, Homura-chan," she repeats. "You... just wanted to save me..."
Homura turns to her, burying her face in Madoka's neck. "M-Madoka? Y-You believe me, right?"
"I do, Homura-chan."
"T-Then, you know that you can't make a wish anymore."
She freezes at Homura's words.
Homura pulls back, lavender searching her eyes. "Y-You told me, that you have people in this world t-that you want to protect. Y-Your mom, a-and your dad. T-Takkun... If... if Kriemhild G-Gretchen appears again..."
Madoka swallows heavily, trying to mute the voices crying in her head. She knows what will happen—even with her eyes open, she can see it all so very clearly.
"So," Homura gently reaches for her hands. She holds them, and Madoka feels her stomach drop when Homura smiles at her, "t-this time, I'll protect you, for sure. E-Everyone's w-working together, a-and we're—we'll be strong enough, to defeat Walpurgisnacht without you."
She grips Homura's hands tightly. "Homura—"
The tears trickle from Homura's eyes, and Madoka blinks when she realizes that she's crying as well.
"Madoka. I'd—" Homura pauses, trying to find her voice, "...you know I'd repeat a-as many timelines as possible for you. T-That I'd go through e-everything just to save you... b-but my time's running out."
Eyes wide, Madoka shakes her head. "N-No, Homura-chan! Y-You—"
Homura moves their hands, until they're resting against her chest. "...Kyuubey wasn't lying when he said t-that my heart is failing. I... probably need another operation... m-maybe even another heart."
Madoka sits up on her knees, leaning forward. "T-Then we'll get you another heart! Y-You can't—"
Homura's still smiling as she shakes her head "...It t-takes time to qualify for a transplant. Years, if I'm lucky..."
"Y-Your magic—"
"It's... not practical. The amount of grief seeds—"
Madoka tears her hands from her grasp, only to throw herself forward on top of Homura. "W-We'll get as many grief seeds as you need, Homura-chan! Y-You can't just—"
"It's okay, Madoka. I'll s-save you, for sure."
Madoka buries her face in Homura's chest. "N-No, H-Homura-chan... y-you—"
Homura holds her close. "I-I'll definitely protect you, if it's the last thing I do."
Madoka closes her eyes, fighting to keep her lips from quivering, to keep from releasing whatever it is that's building deep in her chest. She swallows heavily, and finds that lump is still there.
Homura continues to whisper reassurances into her ear, and she responds by pressing her fingers into her back, unwilling to let her go.
AN: Again, another month updateee. I'll try to be quicker with the next one, maybeeee.
Thanks again for reading/reviewing! whew.