[But it must have been a very weak kiss indeed, as it soon faded away and the gloom left Oktavia. As they bathed, Oktavia shared the story of the strange girls she witnessed with Humility.]
"Well, that certainly was strange, Lady Oktvia. I wonder what that was all about?" [Inwardly Homura cringed. So there were still magical girls even here... ] "wait a moment. Helga, Delia, those are the names of some of the young orphan girls Queen Verena has taken in!"
"Is that so? Perhaps we can ask her about it next time we see her."
"Perhaps..."


By the time they got out of the baths, it had gotten dark. The duchess Matrianna went to check on her little siste in her quartersr. Charlotte was already in bed, snoozing peacefully and clutching her favorite pink and cream plush doll. Marianna smiled lovingly and stroked her soft pale hair
"Oh my little Bebe. I am sorry I was not there to tuck you in. At least I can give you a good night kiss." [She leaned down and panted a kiss upon the child's plump cheek.]
And meanwhile Homura lay in bed, thinking about this whole predictament. What did this all mean? was this a dream, or reality? And what should she do? It seems sometimes she was control of her body here, but most other times this other her was in control. It was like she was watching the scene out of another, or herselves, eyes. How strange...]