Homura kept staring, much longer than any normal person would. On the surface, her face remained calm, expressionless, not a single twitch betraying her thoughts. But inside?
Wait… wait, wait. Was this his goal all along? To get me to enroll? Then what was with the interrogation? The probing questions? The reading between the lines? Was it all just to gauge if I was U.A. material? But why? Are they that in need? Did he see something in me? why? this is... so strange.
Her brow twitched, the only crack in her otherwise unreadable mask.
I don't like this. I really don't like this.
Homura hated being cornered, hated when people danced around her with smiles and hidden motives. At least Oriko had the decency to wear her scheming on her sleeve.
She took a steady breath, forcing her mind to shift back to logic.
If I think this through… if I was sent through time, then logically, Madoka, who was right beside me, must've been caught in it too. My magic would be connected to her then. But if the spell broke mid-transition… it would've flung me wherever it could. And if she was dragged along for the ride…
Homura's eyes narrowed slightly, her gaze dropping to the floor.
Depending on how the distortion worked, she might not land here at the same time. it could take months. years. Maybe even decades for her to be thrown out.
Her hands clenched slightly against the fabric of her hospital trousers.
I'll wait. As long as it takes. I won't age, and… I don't think I even generate grief anymore? Still need to test that. But if it's true, then I've got all the time in the world. And without that damn Kyubey, there's no one left to interfere and no one to use her. to trick her...
Her lips twitched upward. The faintest hint of a smirk.
I suppose… accepting this deal would be the most beneficial option. I have nothing here. No resources. No allies. This would give me shelter, information, and time. And once she arrives… I'll be ready.
She gave a small nod to herself, only then noticing her hand resting against her chin. When did I start doing that?
Homura's gaze lifted, locking onto the… rat? Mouse? Whatever he was - Nezu's beady black eyes.
Wait.
Her eyes flicked down.
When did that tea get there?
A pristine cup of freshly steaming tea sat in his hands, like it had always been there.
???
She blinked, briefly thrown, then quickly shook her head. No. Focus.
Clearing her throat, she spoke evenly, "Nezu, thank you… for offering something like that to me." Her voice was calm, polite as she spoke. "I'd be happy to accept, but… I don't have anywhere to stay. Or, well - I don't think I do. And no money either."
She glanced to the side, a slight frown tugging at her lips.
Nezu's smile didn't waver for a second. "Wonderful! You won't have to worry about housing or finances," he said cheerfully, his tone as light as ever. "In fact, due to the recent villain attack on our campus, we've already made plans to build dormitories for the students. A safer, more secure environment within school grounds."
He took a small sip of his tea, steam curling around his muzzle as though this were the most casual conversation in the world.
"You'll be able to stay there alongside the other students when they're completed," Nezu continued, setting his cup down with a soft clink. "Until then, we can arrange temporary accommodations with one of the staff, or if you are uncomfortable with that arrangement, i will personally find you nearby solo accommodations. If you'd rather." he gave a polite smile, and placed his small hands on his knee.
Homura considered that in silence. Living alone… it would be easier, more normal and more comforting. plus... Her gaze flicked back up to Nezu's face, to that bright, gleeful expression. He didn't seem the type to oppose it. In fact… he looked delighted just to be accommodating.
A small nod. "Yes, I'd prefer solo accommodations," she said, her voice calm. "It's what I'm used to."
For a brief moment, Nezu's eyes widened, a glint of interest flashing in them at her phrasing - before his usual cheery smile returned in full.
"Splendid!" he chirped, clapping his tiny paws together. "I'll have the arrangements made by this evening."
Homura gave another small nod, keeping her face neutral. Inside, she felt the faintest sense of relief. No unnecessary interactions. No unexpected witnesses. It was… manageable.
Nezu rose from his chair, brushing away nonexistent dust from his coat with a practised motion. "Well then," he said cheerfully, "I believe that concludes our little meeting. I'll have someone come by later with the details about your accommodations and enrollment."
Homura gave another small nod, keeping her face neutral. Inside, she felt the faintest sense of relief. But also worry at what's to come.
Nezu rose smoothly from his chair, brushing away invisible dust from his coat with an almost theatrical flourish. "Well then," he said brightly, "I believe that concludes our little meeting. I'll have someone come by later with the details. In the meantime, rest up, Akemi-san."
"Understood. Thank you, Nezu-san," Homura replied softly.
The small creature turned to leave, his cup of tea mysteriously gone as if it had never existed. As he reached the door, he glanced back one last time, a glint of amusement flickering in his beady black eyes.
"I have a feeling you'll make things very interesting around here," he mused, his grin sharp and knowing. "Rest well. I look forward to seeing what you're truly capable of, Akemi-san."
And with that, he slipped through the door, leaving Homura alone in the quiet room.
her sight glued to the door before finally tearing away, staring back at her legs. Still sitting up on the bed, she curled her legs inwards and hugged her knees.
leaning her face against her legs, she sighed.
and began to be lost in thought.
A/N sorry it was short, buut, i finally got motivated. whoo hoo. now hopefully that motivation stays.