Ding Dong
Chapter 32:
You Are Not Alone
Dressed in their national warm-up outfits, Homura Akemi and Madoka Kaname headed back to the athletes' village on a limousine through traffic. It was going to take them a lot of time before they could return to the athletes' village because the limousine was surrounded by fans banging on the door. Madoka waved at the fans, while Homura received a call on her iPhone.
"Hello?" Homura asked. "I'm doing fine...oh, thank you, Mom. How did I do?...Thanks, Mom...Bad news? What bad news?...Oh my God, that's terrible! How are you going to...uh-huh...uh-huh...yeah, things were getting a little out of hand out here, but it's all over...Yeah, Mom. Listen, I have to return to the athletes' village. I'll talk to you later. Bye. Love you." A kiss, and Homura hung up. Then she slumped on her seat, depressed.
"Homura-chan? What's wrong?"
"I don't want to talk about it," she said, draping an arm over her eyes. "Ugh. Dammit, Mom..."
"What happened?"
"Do you really want to know?" she asked, looking at Madoka with a flat gaze.
"I do. I'm your confidante in all of this. I need to know."
"Well, mom made a mistake in the design of one of the MacBook prototypes in regards of the memory storage. It's cost her...her job with Apple."
"Oh my goodness. That is not good news."
"And Dad decided to quit his position for a similar position back home as a result of Mom's firing."
"That is very unfortunate."
"Delay on the release of the new MacBook has been held back a number of months. I am so pissed right now." The tears came down Homura's eyes. "How am I going to get my money? HOW AM I GOING TO GET MY MONEY?"
Madoka gave Homura a hug as her long-haired lover cried on her shoulder. "It's tough to make a living in the USA, Homura-chan. Everywhere you go out there, people are looking for a mistake you make and they pounce on it. It's the reason why the unemployment rate is high out there, as well as the turnover rate."
"Where am I going to get my money, though?" Homura cried. "Where?"
"I think you earn $100,000 US per gold, or 7.8 million yen. So you're getting 15 million yen and change because you won two gold medals. As for me..."
"Madoka?"
"As for me...I don't like to pile on to your bad news, Homura-chan, but..."
"Madoka? I need to know!" There was a look of concern on Homura's eyes.
"I'm going to be returning to my home in the heavens when we return to Japan."
Now the tears were really starting to flow out of Homura's eyes. "Madoka! You can't leave! We've been together for more than a year! You can't leave me now!"
"I'm going to still be here in your dreams, Homura-chan, but I realize that I have my own job to do."
"No...We defeated the demons, we defeated Walpurgis Night together...I am supposed to be happy from saving the world! How could you tell me this right now, at a time when I'm supposed to be happy? At a time when I am supposed...to feel like I have done something right for myself?"
"At the end of a rainstorm, there is a rainbow," Madoka said, "Think of it this way. It's time for you to move on after high school is over. You don't have to always rely on me to be your beacon of happiness. You have to think for yourself and become stronger. I left you once, and you were able to handle it.
"Madoka..."
"I remember the one time when we were among the stars and you cried on your shoulder, you know? And I remember how you really wanted me to be here, with you."
"I know, but..."
"No buts. I mean, you've achieved all that you have wanted with me. We've won Olympic gold, we're the best archers in the world, and we even saved London and the Olympics."
"But Madoka! That is nothing compared to you being with me! You are my everything!" Homura cried, clutching Madoka's hands and kissing them. "My everything...and to let me hear this, at a time when I am supposed to be happy...that is so cruel, Madoka!"
Madoka continued to hug a sobbing Homura as the driver sympathized by slowing down his speed to allow the two passengers to think.
"You can't do this to me Madoka! I love you! I love to be with you! I can't do anything else without you! I would rather die than be without the one I love! I would rather die! You can't do this to me! Madoka..."
"It's hard, isn't it?" Madoka said, also shedding a few tears. "But you know that I watch over all the Puella Magi that do their part to make the world a better place. I don't get paid with any money. But the joy I get in helping a Puella Magi feel better about what she does is enough for me."
"Madoka...?"
"I don't like to leave anyone that I want to also be with, but my job demands too much of my time. Sometimes I want to let someone else take my place so I can just be a Puella Magi like you. But that's not how it works."
Homura could only look through her misty eyes before closing them and falling into a deep sleep.
"People can only be in one place for so long," Madoka said. "Everyone has to expect change at some point in their lives. People get fired, people get hired, and people get moved from place to place. ...it's the epitome of reality." Madoka ran her fingers down Homura's locks, caressing her sweating back on the side. Madoka leaned on the window as Homura hugged her like a body pillow, still sleeping as she buried her face in between Madoka's cleavage.
"You have to accept change, Homura-chan, and be ready for it. Embrace it as a new challenge. Put a positive spin on the comings and goings with the world. No one is going to hold your hand all of the time. Think about it. Every day you go out there telling yourself, 'I am Homura Akemi, and I want to be the best archer, or best student, or best athlete in the world. I can do any profession I want if I commit myself to it, because this is who I am.' I see that in you, but you gotta understand that I am not always going to be there for you when times get tough."
She looked out the window as the traffic lightened up. "I think I'll make up for me being gone...one of these days."
"Wow, what a load of work we had to do," said Kyouko Sakura to Mami Tomoe and Sayaka Miki back at their hotel room. The Olympic events continued as scheduled, despite delays, but neither of the three wanted to attend the events. They were ready to get some rest and were in their pajamas.
Sayaka was checking her twitter on her iPhone, idly swiping up to see all the tweets relating to the efforts in saving London. Mami was busy reading a book.
"I am going to miss Charlotte," Mami said, turning a page. "It was great to be with her."
"No, I'm sure Kyubey will want to move in with you," Kyouko said, munching on an apple. "Look, there he is." She pointed to Kyubey, who was walking through the open door.
"Well done, ladies," Kyubey said. "I am pleased I got here in one piece." He walked over and sat on Mami's lap.
"Thanks a lot, Kyubey," Mami replied, "but can you sit on the floor and stay there?"
"Sure, sure." He found an open spot on the floor, curled into a ball and fell asleep.
"Look at this, Kyouko," Sayaka said, showing her the tweets. "Forget about #London2012, how about #PuellaMagi? There has been nothing but tweets about what we just did."
"And Her Majesty is aware that we do exist," Mami added, yawning.
"We're the big deal now," said Kyouko, tossing the core in the trash bin. "We just upstaged the Olympics."
"You mean, we just saved the Olympics."
"No, those are two different things. Upstaging the Olympics means we became the talk of the town. Saving the Olympics means we kept the corporate sponsors who have a stake in the Games sane."
"That is the weirdest, and most wrong analogy I have heard from you in months!" She was up in arms.
"But it's true! A lot of people are telling me that the sponsors are what drive the Olympic Games now. McDonald's, Coca-Cola, Cadbury, Dow Chemical and Heineken. Those are the big names that drive in the income."
"You know what's stupid about these Games? Brand protection. You can't even use the Olympic brand in any business in London, or anywhere in the UK. There's even worst stuff. You have this guy from Argentina who plays field hockey bringing up the Falkland Islands. You have the Chinese having a grip with the flags on Regent Street. A number of athletes in Azerbaijan, Georgia, South Ossetia and the Ukraine were posted on the site as hailing from Russia. A couple of presidents of the Olympic Committee from Bahrain and Syria were denied entry to the games."
"There are a lot of things about the London Olympics that are very fishy. A graffiti artist that was supposed to do artwork for the Olympic and Paralympic village was arrested by police. A street theatre protest resulted in arrest by London police. Great Britain's football team was met with controversy. In East London, a number of landlords have been raising the rent. There were nearly strikes prior to the games. The Games Lanes have caused some traffic jams, there have been cycling protest arrests, Jacques Rogge does not want to honor the massacre in Munich because of the Arabs and Muslim members of the IOC, and someone in the Indian contingent was wearing a tracksuit in the Parade of Nations."
"The issues keep coming," Mami added, putting away the book and reading the Guardian. "There have been empty seats and long lines at St. James' Park in Newcastle. I don't know if Madoka and Homura realized this, but the ranking round at Lord's was not open to the public."
"Glad we didn't go to that one and stayed in the hotel," Sayaka replied.
"At the judo, Ebinuma Masashi defeated Cho Jun-ho thanks to some swaying from the crowd. You know why Japan was able to get silver in the team all-around? Kohei. He was given a dismount on the pommel horse after a protest from our guys. A number of badminton players from China, South Korea and Indonesia were ejected for match fixing. And you have to feel for South Korean fencer Shin A-Lam, who was robbed by the clock."
Kyouko chimed in. "One boxing referee was dismissed from the games, another was suspended five days, a trio of Indian boxers lost their appeal, and a Ukrainian boxer protested his decision after it seemed likely that the referee was fellating the Brit."
"I'm always careful with tweeting because a triple jumper from Greece and a football player from Switzerland were expelled because of this. A couple of bad-boy swimmers from Australia were sent home early and another Aussie, a rower, was expelled after vandalizing shots while drunk. Then you have a judoka from the US who ate a marijuana brownie and got expelled from the Olympic Games and a sprinter from St. Kitts and Nevis who got kicked out after failing to receiver permission spends a night with his wife."
"Every Games is going to have its controversy. It's an unavoidable fact. We were lucky to get a hotel room because I won a contest," Mami said, putting the Guardian away. "The hotel prices are high and there's been a drop in tourism, according to what I read in this paper."
"Now I can understand why the crowds were so bad," Sayaka mused, putting her iPhone away. She looked out her window. "Clear blue skies, the people walking up and down, everything back to normal..."
"I think we should just watch the events unfold on TV," Kyouko said, turning on the set.
"And in other breaking news...five mysterious women have saved London from destruction," said a broadcaster on BBC. "This is unlike anything we've seen before...a miracle, even..."
Kyouko put a palm to her forehead. "Oh, come on. We're never going to stop hearing this from them." Her mobile began to buzz. "Hello?"
"This is Buckingham Palace calling," said a voice on the phone.
"How did you get my number?" Kyouko exclaimed, alarmed.
"A friend of yours gave it to me," Peter said, keeping his composure. "Anyway, you and the two others who had tea with Her Majesty are summoned on Sunday morning for a ceremony to commemorate your act of heroism."
"Oh my gosh...Sayaka, Mami, we're going to Buckingham again on Sunday to meet Her Majesty!"
Sayaka and Mami leaned over. "There is no dress code," Peter said, "but please look nice for the occasion."
"Thank you, sir," Kyouko said.
"Call me Peter. Good evening, ladies." And he hung up.
"Great. Now I won't be able to sleep because of this news," Mami groaned. Kyubey was ignorant of the news and continued to rest.
"But what about Homura and Madoka?" Sayaka asked the two girls as the three of them watched some swimming events.
"Oh, I'm sure they are enjoying their time with each other," Kyouko said as she snuggled next to her partner.
Sayaka let Kyouko bury her face between her cleavage and sighed. "Just like you will with me, huh?"
"You're a psychic."
"Excuse me, but who are you?" asked a person outside the Olympic Village. "Where are your credentials?"
Madoka pulled her credential out. She also kept Homura's in her own jacket pocket. "How's that?'
"Perfect. Proceed."
Madoka continued to carry a sleeping Homura past the quad, up the stairs and into their room. A housemaid opened the door for them as Madoka got in, laying Homura on the bed. Madoka took her shoes and socks off, and placed them next to hers. On the table were their medals and diplomas for their success at the tournament.
As Madoka watched Homura sleep, an idea came to mind. Madoka slowly took off Homura's sweatpants, revealing a black thong. Madoka had to giggle. But she was surprised when she unzipped Homura's jacket. She was wearing nothing underneath! No shirt, no sweater...not even a sports bra! "I got a bad feeling about this," Madoka thought as she took off Homura's jacket and tossed it aside, leaving just a sleeping Homura wearing her panties.
"Madoka..." her lover whispered, deep in her meeting with the sandman.
And Madoka shook her head and shrugged her shoulders. "That's the Homura-chan I know," she admitted. She took off her warm-up jacket, pants and shirt, revealing a white bra and panties with black lining, small black bow ties and black polka dots.
"It's a little bit hot in here," Madoka said, "so I'm going to make something in the kitchen for you when you wake up." But before she was about to head to the kitchen, Homura woke up and embraced Madoka, freezing her in her tracks. Cat ears were popping out of their heads as they winked, feeling their hormones rush yet again. Homura pulled down Madoka's panties as she fondled her lover's right breast while Madoka pinched her right cheek, pulling down Homura's panties.
"I'm awake now," Homura purred, their bodies beginning to sweat from being so close.
Madoka could only whisper lustily. "Homura-chan..."
"I don't need a meal. You make me full every time I make love to you. And I know I don't have much longer to be with you, but I will take the time to have a taste of your love."
"Oh Homura-chan...make love to me..." They took off their underwear and moved to the bed to relax. Madoka straddle on Homura, rubbing her core against her lover as the two of them shared a deep French kiss. Madoka arched her back before rubbing her chest and torso on Homura, who responded by wrapping her arms and legs around her body and nibbling her ear. "Homura-chan!" Madoka cried, the tears falling out as she grinded harder and faster, stimulated to the point where her love began to flow profusely.
"Madoka...this is why I want to make you my toy every time we're like this," Homura purred, now on top of her as she sucked her breasts again. Madoka lost count at how many times Homura savored her chest, and she didn't want to bother counting. Countless times, she concluded as her heaved and sighs and cried became more pronounced. Homura's tongued worked on Madoka's belly, causing her to raise her legs to allow her long-haired lover to plunge her head deeper into her core. It was the point of no return, as the two of them drowned themselves in the throes of their orgasmic heaven before they embraced each other in a long, deep sleep, their underwear on the floor and the bedsheets drenched with their love.
This moment was ending too soon for them. Oh, how they wished it could last until eternity.
For the next few days leading up to the Closing Ceremony, the five girls elected to watch random events. Homura and Madoka declined interviews from a number of interested journalists but they did take time to have photo ops with athletes and fans alike. Mami was personally disappointed that Japan had to settle for silver in women's soccer to the United States, but she figured that it was payback for winning the FIFA Women's World Cup.
Kyouko continued to watch the basketball, Sayaka watched some volleyball and Mami chose to view the rhythmic gymnastics events. In her third life, Mami was a champion rhythmic gymnast, the pride of her homeland and the target of many would-be suitors.
Sayaka had to cringe at the fact that Japan and Korea would be facing each other for a shot at the bronze in women's volleyball. Kyouko was not surprised at the resiliency of the USA basketball teams. In between their usual visits, they checked out Usain Bolt being Usain Bolt and the Olympic Cauldron being the Olympic Cauldron. The objective for the three girls was to watch as many different sports as possible, and they did. They cheered for Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh, they booed the Chinese and the French at the pool, and they applauded the heart of the USA women's water polo team. They savored the taekwondo, investigated the wrestling and weightlifting, admired the athletic handballers and synchronized swimmers and watched as a German diver named Stephen Feck achieve immortality...for all the wrong reasons.
As for Homura and Madoka, they watched the BMX racers clash and burn, the boxers spar with fluidity and precision and cheered for Ashton Eaton, the greatest American decathlete since Dan O'Brien.
But for the five of them, they were still wondering about what Her Majesty would give them. Was it free access to Buckingham Palace? A new watch? A commemorative medal? What would she give these five young girls?
Sunday finally came, the final day of the Olympics.
"Are you all ready?" Mami asked Kyouko and Sayaka, who were changing into some fancy dresses after a nice long bath on Sunday morning. Mami was already finished and elected to let her hair down this time.
"Almost ready," Kyouko said, fixing her bow. "And...done."
"This is going to be so awesome," Sayaka said, applying a hair clip. "To return to the palace again...that is quite an honor."
"I was wondering, was it really that big of a deal?" Mami wondered. "I guess it was."
"Excuse me," said a representative of the Queen outside the door. "Your ride is waiting downstairs."
"Thank you," Mami said. "Shall we go?"
"Let's do it," Kyouko said. The three of them took their handbags and left.
Meanwhile, back at the athletes' village, Madoka and Homura were putting on their outfits. Madoka elected to go for something pink, while Homura went for a black suit.
"That really was tough for the Canadians," Madoka said as the two of them left their dorm room to head down the stairs and head to the entrance, where a limousine awaited them.
"Can you believe that Canada was disqualified for not exchanging the baton in time?" Homura asked, shaking her head. "I cannot believe that they would be disqualified for something like that. You have to know where you are on the track. That is really unfortunate for them."
"Oh well. At least Jamaica and the USA finished 1-2."
"True."
Homura and Madoka were welcomed by a group of athletes, who parted to make way for them. They all applauded the two girls, who nodded and waved to them before leaving the village.
"It's nice to know how grateful our athletes are for what we did a few days ago," Madoka said to Homura as they both got in the car. Madoka brought Kyubey along for the ride.
"I agree." The chauffeur stepped on it and the two of them made their way to Buckingham Palace. Homura pulled out her iPad and wrote another poem.
"Oh desire. Such a wonderful thing.
Desire looks at me in the eye with
A playful expression and says,
Come here. Come to my place.
I want to show you the world,
And what I have to offer.
And I know you will like it.
So desire says.
I am with her in this quaint room.
She looks at me, the girl next door
With bedroom eyes and raised arms
Draped over her forehead. And she
Wants me to see the world, my world
As I know it, and she is my world.
I slowly undo her lavender-scented
Stockings that are white as snow and
Rise up to her thighs before disrobing
The rest of her clothes: a plaid skirt,
A light beige uniform, a red bow
And a white undershirt, all flavored
With the unmistakable scent her world
Desired to offer, no more, no less.
And I take my time.
I take my time enjoying the finer pleasures
In life, for I was born to be with the girl
Next door, the girl I am in love with, the
Significant other of my visions, now reduced
To nothing but pink underwear that evokes
Transcending images of strawberries, cake,
Whipped cream and glasses of red wine.
Behind my emotionless face is a woman whose
Dreams have been realized, and whose intimate
Cravings want to be satisfied even further.
She likes seeing me happy, the girl next door.
She has reached a point in her young life
Where girls falling in love with girls
Is natural and cannot be suppressed. My girl
Next door would be foolish to not want to
Enjoy the intimacy we share, as I slowly pull
Down her apparel as if it were like plucking
The petals of a sugary carnation, one by one.
She gives me sounds that are music to my ears.
She cries out my name with a passion so unrivaled.
She feels my touch, my fingers stroking
Such wondrous hips and a mound as smooth
As a cherry pancake. A bite of her finger,
And I go in deeper, and wider, and stronger
As I make love to every part of her,
Never minding me turning her into a toy,
Never minding the sounds I cause her to make,
Never minding that the end of this world
Could not stop my love, or my lust, for her.
She minds me not doing this enough,
Or not doing this more often.
The girl next door desires my presence.
She thirsts for my company
And my compassion, and I give her my all.
And I give it to her again. And again.
And again.
If you don't know who the girl next door is by now...
You better ask somebody."
"What is it about you and your penchant for writing poetry?" Madoka asked Homura as the limo continued to weave its way past city streets. Since it was early morning, there was very little traffic, if any.
"I just get inspired, and then I write something," she replied, sighing. "I just get inspired, and then I write. It's really a fascinating part of me that I want to have more time to do."
Madoka smiled. "You should keep writing, Homura-chan. It really suits your personality."
"I will. Just for you," Homura said, giving her lover a kiss. "You wouldn't want it any other way, right?"
"No, I wouldn't."
"How much longer until we reach Her Majesty?" Homura asked the driver.
"Ladies, we will be there in five minutes," he replied. "Your friends are already there ahead of you and are awaiting your arrival. They are at the entrance."
"Thank you."
"We're getting closer," Madoka said, grinning in her pink dress. Soon enough, the limousine arrives at the gate of the palace. A couple of guards opened the gate, allowing the car to park by the door.
"And we're here," Homura said as she and Madoka exited the limousine. "You three look sharp."
"Good morning Akemi-san, Kaname-san," said Mami, giving both of them a hug.
"Did you two sleep well?" Kyouko asked.
"We did, Kyouko-chan," Madoka replied.
"This is a great way to end our stay in London," said Sayaka, pumping her fists. "This is so awesome!"
"Let's go, you guys," Madoka said, leading the five of them, who were escorted by a number of palace staff to one of the semi-state apartments, where a buffet was being served.
"Holy cow, this has to be the best Viking of them all!" Sayaka exclaimed. "Food from Her Majesty! Wow!"
"This looks like a nice spread," Kyouko said, grabbing a plate to pile on the food from the trays, eliciting a few raised eyebrows from the staff watching them.
"Her Majesty knows how to treat her guests right," Mami said, taking a modest share of portions from the trays before taking her seat with the rest of the girls.
"Mmmmm," said Homura, savoring a piece of back bacon. "This is pretty good."
"I never thought that Buckingham Palace's food would be this delicious, but I was wrong," Madoka sighed, feasting on some Scotch pancakes.
"Hey Homura," Sayaka said to her, "are you planning to take part in a number of other meets back in Japan?"
"I haven't thought much about that," she replied. "I'm thinking about quitting the sport and focus on writing and my work as a Puella Magi.'
"Are you sure, Akemi-san?" asked Mami, concerned.
Madoka was surprised. "Homura-chan, that's a bold thing to say; are you sure?"
"I've won all there is to win as an archer. What more do I need to accomplish? I don't want to be like Michael Phelps and try to win every gold possible. I've already won two gold medals, one with Madoka and Ren. I don't need to win anything else."
"You never know, Homura," Kyouko said, swallowing a piece of pudding whole. "People change their minds all the time about what they feel is important. It happens."
"You can't quit on the sport if you are at the pinnacle of your career, Homura-chan," Madoka said. "Is it because...I'm not going to be with you?"
"Kaname-san?" Mami said, blinking. "You're gonna be heading back up there when we return to Japan."
"Madoka, you can't leave!" Sayaka exclaimed. "That just can't happen! That just can't happen!"
"Madoka, you're kidding right?" said Kyouko, a few tears coming down her eyes. "Tell me you're kidding!"
Madoka could only smile, but the pain was evident. "Guys, I've decided that when we return to Japan, I'm going to finally say goodbye to you all. Homura will keep everything that I have and won. As you know, I am a goddess, and I have a lot of people that I watch over. It's not just you."
"Madoka is right," said Kyubey, munching on a scone. "You are fully aware of Madoka's true purpose in regards to the future of the Puella Magi, right?" Homura, Sayaka, Kyouko and Mami nodded. "Good. You can only be with someone you love for so long, everyone."
"It's gonna be hard for us," Kyouko said. "You've been our shining star in so many ways, and to see you go? It's really tough."
"I really will miss you, Madoka," Sayaka said, giving Madoka a hug through her tears. "You're the bestest friend I will ever have, and I don't want you to forget that. You hear me?"
"I know, Sayaka-chan," Madoka said. "Once I return to my place in the heavens, I will remain with you in spirit. That's my promise. When you think of me, I am still here with you. You're not going to see me, but you will feel my presence, and that's all that matters."
"You're grown up quite a lot, Kaname-san," Mami said. "From a shy girl to a confident heroine to an Olympic medalist...Japan is going to really miss you and what we did to save the world. You've really changed, and that is a good thing."
Madoka giggled in her trademark fashion. "Thank you, Mami-san."
Eventually, Kyouko had enough of being unhappy. "Mou! I hate being sad on the last day of the Olympics! Let's enjoy our time here while Madoka is with us. Can we do that?" She was still in tears, sobbing.
"Sure thing, Kyouko-chan," Madoka replied.
"Madoka...thank you..."
After an hour of eating, a member of staff addressed the girls. "Ladies, Her Majesty is ready for you in the throne room," he said.
"Let's go," Madoka said, leading the others with Homura holding her hand.
"Yes, my love," Homura whispered.
The five girls took their seats, where the Queen addressed them.
"Good morning, Puella Magi," Her Majesty said, seated from her throne. "I would like to take this time to personally thank you, salute and honor you, for your bravery in saving London, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the world, and the Games of the XXX Olympiad.
"Normally, I reserve these ceremonies for a different time, and a different audience, but since you are visitors from Japan, I decided to make this an abbreviated ceremony without all of the pomp and pageantry that might overwhelm you.
"Young ladies, I was first informed of the existence of magical girls known as Puella Magi from spending afternoon tea with three of you a number of days ago. I was intrigued by your purpose and why you do the things that make you famous, and at these Olympics, when London was about to be sent to its knees and I was about to die, you saved my life and so many others.
"Your purpose seems to be underappreciated by those who are not affected by your actions, which are unselfish and well-intended. You have done something that my own armed forces are ill-equipped and ill-prepared to accomplish. It is a task that only you are able to perform, and when the world understands that you are heroes in the global sense, it will be indebted to your legacy that goes back to the days of antiquity.
"For your outstanding act of bravery and personal service to myself, I am awarding each of you two honors. You are now honorary members of the Royal Victorian Order. In addition, you are the first female recipients of the Victorian Cross."
The five girls were amazed, and the smile could not be kept off their faces. First, Her Majesty pinned on their left shoulders the badge, Maltese cross with a central medallion depicting on a red background the Royal Cypher of Queen Victoria surrounded by a blue ring bearing the motto of the order— VICTORIA— and surmounted by a Tudor crown. Then she gave them each of them a bronze cross pate, 41 mm high, 36 mm wide, bearing the crown of Saint Edward surmounted by a lion, and the inscription FOR VALOUR. The crossed had crimson ribbons attached to it.
"Wow, this is so beautiful," Madoka said. "Thank you, Your Majesty."
"I am honored to have something like this, Your Majesty," Homura said.
"This is so awesome," Sayaka said, biting her medal. "This is better than Olympic gold."
"We're honored to be a part of this," Mami said.
"This will be great for my resume," Kyouko added.
"Wear your honors with pride, ladies, for you are the best heroines the world has to offer," Her Majesty concluded. "I will forever be in your debt."
The five girls elected to return to Olympic Park to watch the remaining events. Sayaka watched some volleyball, Kyouko checked out some basketball, Mami watched some rhythmic gymnastics, Homura watched some handball and Madoka checked out the water polo. The closing ceremony was scheduled to begin at 9 p.m., and in a surprising twist, LOCOG decided to give Mami, Sayaka and Kyouko access to the area where the athletes were, an extraordinary privilege given their deed on Day 6 of the Games.
As Homura watched the Swedes and the French compete for the gold in handball, she elected to write another poem.
"This is my city.
Sometimes I don't like the trappings of
An urban lifestyle, but I think it is better
Than having to go through the rigors that
Come with being in the countryside. I never
Think that simpler times exist in this day
And age. No. I was not born to be a farmer
Or a maid working at a dairy, like in those
European fairytale fantasies that I have been
Inundated with at a young age. As a matter of
Fact, I was brainwashed into thinking that
Such a lifestyle even exists. For I was born
To live my life in the city, taking solace
Amidst the skyscrapers, and the traffic
Snarling below, the panacea of the urban carnage
That welcomes the morning, beckons for the
Afternoon, and is sweet, sweet music to the night.
This is my city.
The city makes men out of boys, and women out of girls,
And living in my city is not for the faint of heart,
Nor is it for those who would rather be bored stewing
Away on less than a dollar a day. But take a look below.
People—men and women from all walks of life—mingle, if
Only for a moment, and then they turn away, minding their
Own business, and their own needs, and their own comforts.
No one is obligated to hold your hand in my city, and unless
You are willing to pay me my loans to get through college,
I wouldn't dare touch your hand, either. In fact, I would
Rather let someone willing to take a chance on me and love
Me for who I am hold my hand through this concrete jungle.
I will tell you this: my city does not play favorites,
And neither do I. But I do have standards, and they are
As high and demanding as the buildings behind me, so if you
Want to move heaven and earth, I don't mind your company one bit.
This is my city.
I don't have plans to leave this city at this point, or
The next point, or the next point in time. But there will
Be a day when I do have to move out, and I won't know why
Until fate tells me it is time to go. Maybe it's because the
Economy of my homeland is suffering. Maybe it's the thrill of
Being a citizen somewhere else. Maybe it's the possibility that
There is nothing here that will interest me or make me happy.
Or maybe it's the fact that when I walk through the streets,
I walk alone, with that special someone in mind, and she tells
Me that it is okay for me to spread my wings of darkness and
Depart after midnight, on a flight to a new Shangri-La that
Attracts the well-to-do and the not-so-well-to-do, otherwise
Known as a city where I will find her waiting there, on a hotel
Bed, with a smile on her face, and all the love she could give
Me. But I have her with me now, and so if I leave this city,
I am leaving her as well, and that's the last thing I would ever do.
This is my city.
Whether the sky is blue, whether heaven rains down on me, or
Whether frozen tears fall on my petite shoulders, I know where
I am, and I will treasure these moments I spend living here. I know
Where every street is, where every structure is, the schools and
Banks and parks and places to eat, clubs to temporarily escape from
The cruelty of the daily grind, the shops, the places of worship,
The police stations and the city hall...I know every place in this
New metropolis formed out of the wings of hope and commerce and progress.
Do I go to every place? No. I don't need to, but if I am need, or they
Need me, I am there to partake in the rituals and festival rites
That take place, whether they are for fun or for business, for work.
One of these days I will have my own job, aside from that which you know I
Lead, and I will need to call upon the people of this city to help
Me as well. In my city, we all learn as one. We all breathe as one.
We all build, pray, work, teach, lead, volunteer and serve as one.
We all love, hope, dream as one, for we all are one. We all are one.
This is my city.
This is my home.
And there is no place else I would rather be."
Madoka and Homura went back to the Basketball Arena later that night to get debriefing instructions from the heads of the Japanese delegation on the march of the athletes. 4,100 performers, 3,500 adult volunteers and 380 schoolchildren were set to give "A Symphony of British Music," celebrating Britain's musical history. Could the Rolling Stones be performing at these Games? They all meant to find out. The last gold medalist was a female pentathlete, Laura Asadauskaite.
"I am so glad we are all here," Sayaka said to the four others, who were watching the others chat among each other. "I can't wait for this show to start."
"Me too, Sayaka-chan, me too," Madoka added.
"I'm going to miss this place when this is all over," Kyouko added. The sun was setting over the London skyline.
"I can't wait for this to start," Homura added. "Homu."
Stephen Kiprotich of Uganda won the men's marathon to win the country's first-ever gold and first medal since 1972. Abel Kirui of Kenya won the silver. Four minutes to go. Wilson Kipsang Kiprotich of Kenya won the bronze.
60, 59, 58, 57, 56, 55, 54, 53, 52, 51, 50, 49, 48, 47, 46, 45, 44, 43, 42, 41, 40, 39, 38, 37, 36, 35, 34, 33, 32, 31, 30, 29, 28, 27, 26, 25, 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. And the Closing Ceremony began.
Big Ben tolls. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 p.m. in London. A singer sung about life in the city. A number of percussionists and a chorus evoked a tribute to the Beatles. Because, from Abbey Road. A Winston Churchill impersonator named Timothy Small spoke as a number of stop cabs drove around the track. A bit of a print wrap traffic jam took place as walking newspapers moped around. And it stopped to allow Jacques Rogge and Prince Henry of Wales to arrive on the feast. God Save the Queen played with a few jackhammers keeping cadence. The layout resembled the Union Flag as the chorus sung and the flags waved in the air.
5, 4, 3, 2, 1. A car blew up, revealing Batman and Robin. A street party broke out, featuring Madness and Suggs. An 160-member band in the outfit of the Buckingham Palace guards played some pop. The Pet Shop Boys performed "West End Girls," escorted by an army of cyclists with interesting-looking helmets. New boy band One Direction performed "What Makes You Beautiful."
The percussionists of Stomp took over, with some nice cadences under a replica of the London skyline, complete with the bridge, the Palaces of Westminster and the London Eye. They celebrated the Queen's Jubilee year with style, these Brits, as they continued to sweep as one. Now a Waterloo sunset to the tune of "A Day In The Life," done by acrobatic troupe Spellbound. Ray Davies took to the stage with the song "Waterloo Sunset" as more acrobats took to the stage and a man waved a Union Flag and the trucks left.
The same singer that opened the closing ceremony came back for a reprise. That was Emeli Sande with "Read All About It" as the images of emotion and despair from the Olympians came out.
"Are you ready to head out?" Madoka asked the four girls.
"Let's go," Homura said.
"All right!" Sayaka exclaimed.
"Woo-hoo!" Kyouko squealed with squee.
"Let's do it!" Mami added. Gymnast Kohei Uchimura was selected to carry the flag for Japan. The five of them left the Basketball Arena to join the masses of athletes still in London. Another singer performed to welcome the athletes, who came through the crowd. The Puella Magi, dressed in their magical girl outfits, high-fived a number of fans. Homura and Madoka were wearing their medals. As the heroes of the Games, they were exempt from wearing the blue Japanese Olympic Committee-issued uniform.
"Shall we jog around?" Madoka said. "Get out legs in shape?"
"I'll race you," Homura replied as an impression of the Union Jack was imposed.
"Wait for me!" Sayaka exclaimed.
"Let's go," Mami said.
"I love running!" Kyouko exclaimed. After a few laps, they elected to walk around, taking photos on their iPhones and tweeting them. 400 grams of gold, what a weight. "One Day Like This" by Elbow on the airwaves. In Britain, Mo Farah was a hero, winning two gold medals. Madness played one more time. "Our House." Madoka embraced Homura, Sayaka embraced Kyouko, and the two coupled shared a long, deep kiss. The flag bearers left the dais to gather in another part of the arena as the cauldron continued to burn on borrowed time.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the athletes of the London 2012 Olympic Games!" exclaimed the voice on the tannoy.
After the athletes had gathered onto the center of the arena, a number of dol drummers began to drum. A number of highlights from the games were displayed while the blocks began to pile up, forming a pyramid. Afterwards, the men's marathon medal ceremony took place.
"Ladies and gentlemen," said the voice on the tannoy, "we would like to salute the Puella Magi for their heroic, triumphant efforts in saving London and the Olympic Games, and the world. We salute gold and silver medalist Madoka Kaname, gold medalist Homura Akemi, Mami Tomoe, Sayaka Miki, and Kyouko Sakura. They have been made members of the Royal Victorian Order and are the first female recipients of the Victorian Cross. Thank you, Puella Magi!"
Madoka, Homura, Sayaka, Kyouko and Mami waved to the crowd and the athletes who took plenty of photos. They posed with women from around the world, eliciting more memories that the athletes would take with them.
The presentation of the volunteers took place to the strains of "Here Comes The Sun" to a standing ovation. Four new members joined the Athletes' Commission of the International Olympic Committee.
A little Queen played over the speakers. "Bohemian Rhapsody." Now it was "Imagine" by John Lennon, accompanied by a children's chorus. Several sheets combined to form Lennon's face and a number of balloons were released. George Michael with "Freedom 90." The lights of the fans shined in the darkness as the chorus sung with him. "Remember...you are at the Center of the Universe!" George exclaimed before breaking into "White Light."
An army of motorcycles heralded the arrival of The Who's Roger Daltrey to the strains of "Pinball Wizard." Actually, it looked more like a cover band of The Who, in the eyes of the Puella Magi. Now a random montage of David Bowie images and songs took place before the strains of "Fashion" played.
"Look at all those images of fashion," Sayaka said. "I want that dress!"
"Me too," Kyouko added. "Oh look, it's the goon squad. Nice helmets."
"I love all those trucks. And look, a number of models. And David Beckham's wife's outfits are in this one!" They all made their way down the catwalk.
Now the lights turned down to show a boat with Annie Lennox in it, gothic style and all. "Little Bird" was what she sang. And now, Ed Sheeran, Nick Mason, Mike Rutherford, and Richard Jones performed "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd as a quartet for the people in attendance. A tightrope walker slowly paced up the rafters.
Now a tribute to Willy Wonka was performed by Russell Brand. And then it was time for "I Am The Walrus." Afterward, Fatboy Slim, rising out of a white, translucent octopus bus, performed "Right Here, Right Now" and "The Rockefeller Skank" to an army of male and female go-go dancers. Next up was Jessie J, cruising around with "Price Tag." After that, it was Nigerian rapper Tinie Tempah performing "Written In The Stars." After that, Taio Cruz sang "Dynamite." Afterwards, there was a cover by all three performers of "You Should Be Dancing" by the Bee Gees as a rainbow of color cascaded across the stadium, a tribute to the disco days.
"That is a great performance," Mami said, applauding. "Brilliant."
"Nice," Homura mused. The five girls continued to take photos with the other athletes. An army of black cabs now entered the stadium. And the passengers? The world-famous Spice Girls, now reunited, with "Wannabe." Victoria Beckham, Melanie Brown, Emma Bunton, Melanie Chisholm and Geri Halliwell. Now they sang "Spice Up Your Life."
Next, the band Beady Eye sang a cover of Oasis's "Wonderwall" as the fans swayed their arms. And the athletes and Puella Magi joined in. It wouldn't be long before the flame was extinguished once and for all. Afterwards, some Victoria-era antics took place to the strains of "Mister Blue Sky" by Electric Light Orchestra. A man shot off a cannon and another acrobat flew on his bike. Another actor, from the Monty Python crew, sang "The Brighter Side Of Life." The man was upstaged by a troupe of Oriental-themed performers. Determined, the man continued to belt out the words.
"Life's a piece of shit
When you look at it
Life's a laugh and death's a joke, it's true.
You'll see it's all a show
Keep 'em laughing as you go
Just remember that the last laugh is on you."
"He bores me," Homura said as an aside to Madoka as the act concluded.
"Why does he bore you?"
"Because it's something impossible to do nowadays," she replied as the piper played. A man blasted out of a cannon and took his helmet off. Now it was Muse's turn to perform the theme of the London 2012 Olympics: Survival.
"Race, life's a race
And I am gonna win
Yes, I am gonna win
And I'll light the fuse
And I'll never lose
And I choose to survive
Whatever it takes
You won't pull ahead
I'll keep up the pace
And I'll reveal my strength
To the whole human race
Yes I am prepared
To stay alive
I won't forgive, the vengeance is mine
And I won't give in
Because I choose to thrive
I'm gonna win
Race, it's a race
But I'm gonna win
Yes I'm gonna win
And will light the fuse
I'll never lose
And I choose to survive
Whatever it takes
You won't pull ahead
I'll keep up the pace
And I'll reveal my strength
To the whole human race
Yes I'm gonna win
Fight! Fight! Fight! Fight!
Win! Win! Win! Win!
Yes I'm gonna win!"
"When we were facing Walpurgis Night, this song was in my head," Homura said to the others.
"Fitting," Sayaka chortled.
"Yeah, I'm with Sayaka on that," Kyouko said as the chorus swayed and clapped.
"Sounds like a proper background music, Kajiura-like," Mami remarked.
"True," Madoka said. "But pretentious."
Some more of Freddie Mercury's took the stage. A replay from Queen's 1986 concert in Wembley. Some interesting guitaring took place soon after. The type of guitaring Brian May was, and is, famous for. Jessie J with "We Will Rock You," and Roger Taylor was on the drums. A little timpani on the side, and the first fireworks.
Now the Greek anthem played, the Hymn to Liberty, as the flag rose. Greece, the home of the Olympic Games. Soon enough, the handover to Rio de Janeiro would take place. The London Welsh Male Voice Choir and London Welsh Rugby Choir, conducted by Michael Wynn-Jones, then sang Palamas and Samaras's Olympic Hymn as the Olympic flag was lowered.
"Olympian flame immortal
Whose beacon lights our way,
Emblaze our hearts with the fires of hope
On this momentous day.
As now we come across the world
To share these Games of old,
Let all the flags of every land
In brotherhood unfold.
Sing out each nation, voices strong!
Rise up in harmony!
All hail our brave Olympians
With strains of victory!
Olympic light, burn on and on.
O'er seas and mountains and plains.
Unite, inspire, bring honor
To these ascending games.
May valor reign victorious
Along the path of golden way!
As tomorrow's new champions now come forth,
Rising to the fervent spirit of the game.
Let splendour pervade each noble deed
Crowned with glory and fame.
And let fraternity and fellowship
Surround the soul of every nation.
Oh flame, eternal in your firmament so bright,
Illuminate us with your everlasting light,
That grace and beauty and magnificence.
Shine like the sun
Blazing above
Bestow on us your honor, truth, and love!"
"Never gets old," Madoka said to Homura.
"Indeed. But they were off on the timing."
After Major Boris Johnson handed a scaled down version of the flag to Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Paes, it was time for the Brazilian national anthem to play, the flag of Brazil rising. With the exception of Madoka, the five Puella Magi elected to ignore the presentation of Rio 2016. The lights went down, and a sole sweeper moved in slow-motion, then another person joined in. He tried to tell him to leave, but eventually, the sweeper won by way of his samba moves. And a number of samba dancers joined in. Brazil were the next hosts of the FIFA World Cup, in 2014. A singing goddess arrived on the scene, a spirit of the city, and perhaps the country. The janitor told the usher that there was more to see from the next hosts of the games. A group of dancers with heads of light came in, along with more percussionists, a tribute to its past. The schools of samba were on stage tonight, and a singer from Rio greeted the crowd. Now some capoeira experts joined in. And a flashy man with a white suit and a bass voice crooned. The usher apparently enjoyed himself, as did the janitor, who danced with another Brazilian celebrity. Some informal card turning, and another Brazilian singer joined in. Finally, Pele greeted the crowd amidst the fireworks. He was still alive, the man was. And as the logo of Rio 2016 was displayed—three interlocking spirits of different colors—would Pele still be alive when these Games took place? Madoka thought about that question as she took photos of the logo. For her sake, she hoped so.
Sebastian Coe and Jacques Rogge made some speeches. First was Lord Coe. "Today sees the closing of a wonderful games in a wonderful city," said Seb. "For the third time in its history, London was granted the trust of the Olympic Movement, and once again, we have shown ourselves worthy of that trust. And for that, i want to say 'Thank You.' Thank you to the people who built the stadiums, the people who created a new neighborhood in an old city, the people who stood guard to keep us safe.
"Thank you to the London Organizing team: to every one of you who has worked so hard, and who turned the buildings into a theatre of sport and drama, and choreographed these Games, and to the International Olympic Committee, which has been with us every step of the way.
"Thank you to the tens of thousands of volunteers." The Puella Magi also applauded with the masses. "Volunteers who gave their time, their boundless enthusiasm, and their goodwill, and who have the right to say tonight: 'I Made London 2012.'
"And thank you to the people of this country. The British people got behind London's bid and they got behind London's games. Our opening ceremony proclaimed that these would be a games for everyone. At our closing ceremony, we can proudly say that these were a games BY everyone.
"London 2012 has played host to some incredible sport, to awe-inspiring feats of the synthesis of incredible dedication and skill by the world's great sportsmen and women. To all the Olympians who came to compete: thank you. Those of us who came to watch witnessed moments of heroism and heartbreak that will live long in the memory. You have our admiration and our congratulations.
"Finally, I would also like to acknowledge the unselfish heroism of five young women from Japan, two of whom are medal-winning Olympians, and who are with us tonight. They not only saved this great city from total destruction, but they saved the world, the Olympic Movement, and these Games forever. No one in Britain will ever forget what you have done to inspire us, and we will be with you every step of the way, for you have done more than any Olympian would have ever dreamed to accomplish. To the Puella Magi of Japan: thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.
"These may be the end of these two glorious weeks in London, but what we have begun will not stop now. The spirit of these Olympics will Inspire A Generation. We have seen in these days what tenacity can do, what ambition can do, what imagination can do. We know more now as individuals, and as a nation, just what we are capable of. And that knowledge will drive us on.
"On the first day of these Games, I said we were determined to do it right. I said that these Games would see the best of us. On the last day, I can finish with these words: when our time came, Britain...we did it right. Thank you. It now gives me very great pleasure to introduce the president of the International Olympic Committee, Dr. Jacques Rogge."
Amidst a standing ovation, Sebastian turned it over to Jacques, who spoke. "Your Majesties, Your Royal Highnesses, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen: after 17 unforgettable days, we are indebted to so many tonight. The organizing committee, [who] was supported by the public authorities, did a superb job. Thank you, Lord Coe and your great local king.
"We will never forget the smiles, the kindness and the support of the wonderful volunteers, the much-needed heroes of these Games. We will never forget the heroic deeds of the Puella Magi of Japan, who saved the Olympic Movement and saved this city, this country and the world from total destruction at the hands of evil. The Olympic Movement salutes your courage and bravery at these Games.
"You, the spectators and the public, provided the soundtrack for these Games. Your enthusiastic cheers energized these competitors and brought a festive Olympic spirit to every Olympic venue. You have shown the world the best of British hospitality. I know that generosity of spirit will continue as we marvel at the dedication and talent of the wonderful Paralympic athletes.
"Dear athletes: you have earned the respect and admiration of a global audience and you have written a new chapter of Olympic history that began in Ancient Olympia 3,000 years ago. Through your commitment to fair play, your respect for your opponents, and your grace in defeat as well as in victory, you have earned the right to be called Olympians.
"These were happy and glorious Games. I now, in accordance with tradition...I declare the Games of the XXX Olympiad closed. And I call on the youth of the world to assemble four years from now in Rio de Janeiro to celebrate the Games of the XXXI Olympiad. Thank you, London!"
The issue now for Homura was whether or not she would have the drive to be there for those Games. Madoka was leaving once they got back home, and it could do irreversible damage to her desire for more Olympic gold at the age of 19.
Still, the Opening Ceremony wrapped up. The flames of the cauldron parted, and a flash of fireworks came from behind, revealing a phoenix. Madoka blew a kiss at the phoenix, which responded by flying into the sky, perhaps on its way to Rio. Take That and Gary Barlow performed next, and the phoenix continued its flight.
"Go, young firebird," Madoka whispered. "Tell Rio that I will watch over them and the world." The phoenix nodded and disappeared. And a wave of fireworks erupted on the roof and the adjoining tower, as the chorus sung, Darcey Bussell and her ballerinas of fire dancing alongside.
"What did you tell the bird?" Homura asked as the number continued.
"What I told you before we first parted," she whispered in her ear. The two of them shared a long, deep kiss.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the extinguishing of the Olympic flame," the voice on the tannoy said. One by one, the 205 pieces of the cauldron were lowered at the sound of a lone trumpet, then turned off. They would not turn back on again until the Paralympics, 17 days later.
"They're here," Homura said to the Puella Magi. "Roger Daltrey. Pete Townshend. The Who."
"YEAAAAAAH!" Sayaka exclaimed.
"Still around after all this time," Kyouko chuckled.
"Ganbare, Townshend-san, Daltrey-san," Mami said, pumping her fists. Madoka simple smiled, shedding a tear. Baba O'Riley played.
"Out here in the fields
I fight for my meals
I get my back into my living.
I don't need to fight
To prove I'm right
I don't need to be forgiven.
yeah, yeah ,yeah ,yeah, yeah
Don't cry
Don't raise your eye
It's only teenage wasteland
Sally, take my hand
We'll travel south cross land
Put out the fire
And don't look past my shoulder.
The exodus is here
The happy ones are near
Let's get together
Before we get much older."
"Beautiful windmilling from Pete," Sayaka said. And now, "See Me Feel Me," with more fireworks.
"See Me
Feel Me
Touch Me
Heal Me
See Me
Feel Me
Touch Me
Heal Me
See Me Feel Me
Touch Me
Heal Me
Listening to you, I get the music
Gazing at you, I get the heat
Following you, I climb the mountain
I get excitement at your feet
Right behind you, I see the millions
On you, I see the glory
From you, I get opinion
From you, I get the story
Listening to you, I get the music
Gazing at you, I get the heat
Following you, I climb the mountain
I get excitement at your feet
Right behind you, I see the millions
On you, I see the glory
From you, I get opinion
From you, I get the story..."
And now a little "My Generation," in tune with the theme of the games.
"Makes sense," Homura mused as she saw the fireworks shower down.
"People try to put us d-down (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Just because we get around (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Things they do look awful c-c-cold (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I hope I die before I get old (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
This is my generation
This is my generation, baby
Why don't you all f-fade away (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
And don't try to dig what we all s-s-say (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm not trying to cause a big s-s-sensation (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm just talkin' 'bout my g-g-g-generation (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
This is my generation
This is my generation, baby
Why don't you all f-fade away (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
And don't try to d-dig what we all s-s-say (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm not trying to cause a b-big s-s-sensation (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm just talkin' 'bout my g-g-generation (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
This is my generation
This is my generation, baby
People try to put us d-down (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Just because we g-g-get around (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Things they do look awful c-c-cold (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Yeah, I hope I die before I get old (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
This is my generation
This is my generation, baby!"
And there was one more song from the Who to close it off. "Won't Get Fooled Again," played in its entirety. The flags wove in the air, and fireworks in every city in Britain erupted. Five tons of confetti, one for each member of the Puella Magi, rained down, in the colors of the Union Flag.
"This is dedicated to the Puella Magi!" Roger shouted, as the rest of the performers from the Closing Ceremony joined in.
"We'll be fighting in the streets
With our children at our feet
And the morals that they worship will be gone
And the men who spurred us on
Sit in judgment of all wrong
They decide and the shotgun sings the song
I'll tip my hat to the new constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around me
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
And I'll get on my knees and pray
We don't get fooled again
Don't get fooled again
Change it had to come
We knew it all along
We were liberated from the fall that's all
But the world looks just the same
And history ain't changed
'Cause the banners, they all flown in the last war
I'll tip my hat to the new constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around me
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
And I'll get on my knees and pray
We don't get fooled again
Don't get fooled again
No, no!
I'll move myself and my family aside
If we happen to be left half alive
I'll get all my papers and smile at the sky
For I know that the hypnotized never lie
Do ya?
There's nothing in the street
Looks any different to me
And the slogans are replaced, by-the-bye
And the parting on the left
Is now the parting on the right
And the beards have all grown longer overnight
I'll tip my hat to the new constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around me
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
Then I'll get on my knees and pray
We don't get fooled again
Don't get fooled again
No, no!
YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAH!
Meet the new boss
Same as the old boss..."
"Excuse me girls, but can you follow me?" asked a London 2012 volunteer to Madoka, Homura, Mami, Sayaka and Kyouko.
"What is this all about?" Kyouko wondered as the crowd continued to roar and exit the stadium. The five girls walked over the stage, where all the performers were waiting for them.
"So you are the heroes of these games," Roger said, hands on his hips with a chuckle.
"That...was...awesome!" Taio said.
"Unbelievable," added Victoria.
"I know who deserves the Victorian Cross, and it's you!" Pete added.
"Saving the world once again...you girls make this a habit," Geri added.
"Everyone," Jessie J said. "We need to take a group photo with these girls. Can we?"
"Yes, you may," said Kyubey, who emerged from the rafters, slightly singed from the fireworks, and approaching the people on stage.
"Kyubey!" the Puella Magi exclaimed.
"Everyone, I am Incubator, the driving force behind the heroes you see before you. It is not like us to upstage the Olympic Games, but we did our part to make sure the greatest show on Earth goes on," Kyubey said. "Everyone, I encourage you to take photos of all of us on the stage! Press, fans, athletes, please go right ahead! This is our gift to you for everything you have done to make London 2012 a success!"
The girls, Kyubey, and all the performers posed for group photos, and the performers got some sweet autographs from Madoka, Homura, Kyouko, Sayaka and Mami. Cosplay this wasn't, this was the real thing.
After a hour and change of chatting with the people on stage, some hugs and kisses as well, the five girls and Kyubey left the stadium last. One final night at the athletes village and Staybridge Suites later, they were all on the first nonstop flight back to London, and they were seated at the front with a majority of the Japanese delegation who were on the flight.
Homura watched the clouds fly past her as Madoka rested on her shoulder. Both were dressed in the blue tracksuits issued by the JOC. Sayaka, Kyouko and Mami were taking a look at the remaining souvenirs they purchased from the Games before boarding the plane. It was going to be a quick 12 hours. And once those 12 hours were up, they found themselves outside Terminal 1-B of Narita.
"This is it, isn't it?" Homura said to Madoka as she hugged her, the tears flowing out of her eyes.
"I know it hurts for me to leave you," she replied. She took the medals she wore and draped them around Homura's neck. Now she had three gold a silver. "The most decorated Olympian I know," she said with a giggle.
"It's been great knowing you, Madoka," Sayaka said, tears also falling down her eyes. "Thank you for being my best friend in the world."
"Aren't I in the argument, too?" Kyouko added, elbowing her slightly.
"You're my best lover. There's a difference."
"Oh. Anyway, Madoka, it's too bad to see go leave us so soon, but I will never forget the time I spent with you."
"Kaname-san, you are a goddess for a reason," Mami said, brushing away a tear. "I understand now why you do what you do. I will forever be indebted to your loyalty and friendship, Kaname-san."
"Sayaka-chan, Kyouko-chan, Mami-san, thank you," Madoka said.
"Madoka!" Homura cried. "Tell me you will come back! Please promise me you will! Please promise me!"
Madoka whispered some words in Homura's ear, causing her to hug Madoka one last time and share one last kiss. In a flash of light, Madoka changed into her Ultimate outfit.
"Take care of yourselves, everyone," Madoka said, ascending.
"Goodbye...Homura-chan..."
"Madoka...MADOKA!" Homura wailed, falling to her knees and crying. The other three were there to console her as Madoka continue her ascent into her heavenly home.
"Madoka," her lover whispered, raising her head to the skies through the tracks of her tears and her eyes of desperation. "Madoka, please tell me what you say...is true..."
For the remainder of her time at Sakuragaoka High School, Homura continued to attend the Archery Club meetings and even take part in a few meets. But in spite of winning at the tournaments she took part in, Homura never felt so down. It took her a year to finally get over the loss, the fact that Madoka Kaname left her life as a medal-winning Olympian, one of the best archers Japan had ever witnessed. When Homura told the news to her parents, they took it in stride, and shed a few tears. But they were aware of her purpose in terms of the big picture.
Freshman year. Sophomore year. Senior year. And soon, the last day of March 2015 took place. Homura, now financially independent and working as a waitress as a side job, put on her uniform, brushed her hair, and stepped out the door ready to receive her diploma.
The day was rather quick. Some speeches from the headmaster and the student council president, and a chat from Miss Sawako were the highlights of the day. Homura had elected to attend Japan Women's University with the aspiration of becoming a housewife.
The afternoon came, and the students at Sakuragaoka said farewell to each other. And Homura looked at the black tube that contained her diploma and smiled. She exited the gate of the school on last time, and as she turned, she met someone familiar.
Long pink hair. White hair bows, A sundress. And...a young baby girl in her hands.
"Madoka?" Homura said. It was her. "MADOKA!"
"Homura-chan!" Madoka said as Homura embraced her.
"Madoka! My love! My one true love! You came back!"
"And I am here to stay. As your goddess, and as your wife."
"I am so overjoyed. I have waited so long! You did make good on your promise to me after those Olympics."
"I told you, I am a woman of my word."
"Who is that girl you have in your hands?"
"This one? This is our daughter."
"Our...daughter?" Homura had tears in her eyes. "Amazing...so it is possible!"
"Through me, anything is possible. This is our daughter, Honoka."
Honoka opened her eyes, and giggled. "Papa!" Honoka said with a squeal.
"So I am the father, huh?" Homura said, chuckling.
"Remember how we made love in the Olympic Village?" Madoka asked. "Well, that helped me give birth to our daughter. I'm now the mom, and you're the dad. You think you can handle being a parent now?"
"I can," Homura said. "I'll do anything to make you and our daughter happy."
"Let's go to your house," Madoka said. "Let's start our new future...together, Homura-chan."
"Absolutely, Madoka. Absolutely." The two girls walked together into the sunset towards Homura's house. From a distance, Sayaka, Kyouko and Mami looked on, smiling, knowing now that they were together. Forever.
And the bells rang. Ding Dong. Say no more. And Homura Akemi would never be alone again.
DING DONG
THE END