"Yeah.  God.  How does someone - end up like that?"

"I don't know. By being a horrible person. Probably kicks puppies in her spare time."

"Do you think we just - had really bad luck this weekend, or - "

"I mean, of the magical girls we've met, three are nice - four if you count Taylor, I don't think people get much nicer than her, and six if you count us - one's probably just paranoid and a loner, and only one's been that bad. Twice is still a coincidence, especially with six counter-examples. And the first girl we met might've been a jerk because she was familiar with the second girl."

"That's a good point.  I guess having someone like that in your neighborhood is a decent reason to be paranoid.  And - you're right, two isn't a lot.  And this was our first time... maybe we can eventually figure out a way to get magical girls to come to us, so it doesn't seem like we're - horning in on their territory."

"Yeah. It'd be nicer if Kyubey was more enthusiastic about helping, I feel like he only introduced us to Mallory in case she'd be able to convince you. Maybe we can prove to him that it's a good idea."

"Maybe.  Hopefully."

She sighs heavily.  "Think I'm gonna try to get some sleep."

"Mmhmm. Night."

"Night."

The next morning Lianne wakes up with a groan. She greets Kaylee when she wakes up, then says, "We should probably head out after breakfast."

"Yeah.  You all packed?"

"Got a few things left to pack up, then I'm good."

Kaylee nods, rolls out of bed and goes to change.

When she gets back: "...you want a hug?"

"...Yeah."

Hug.

Nice long hug.

Hugs!

Eventually: "...I probably should go get ready."

"Yeah."

"...We'll figure it out.  We can't all be that bad."

Slight smile. "Yeah. Thanks."

"You're welcome."  With mock-sternness: "Now go get dressed."

"Yes ma'am!" And she gets ready for the day.

Hee.

Breakfast is tasty, if subdued.  Kaylee doesn't have much packing to do either, so soon they're on the bus back home.

'I'm kinda dreading telling everyone at club what happened,' she telepaths once they're on the bus. 'Though I don't think Mallory will be too surprised.'

'Oh jeez, yeah, that's gonna be tough.  I can't imagine what Taylor's gonna say.'

She puts an arm around Lianne's shoulder.

'Yeah. She's just so - optimistic about everything. I really hope she never runs into a magical girl like that last one, she'll have no idea what to do.'

Kaylee nods.  'I almost - don't want her to wish at all.  I know it's gotta be her call, but.'