>>1481900Part of the reason why it seems this way is because Homura is actively keeping her from doing anything. And Madoka, unlike so many rash young protagonists, actually listens to the advice of those around her. Remember: in timelines where Homura is "submissive", Madoka is "dominant", and vice versa-- the balance between the two tips completely from one side to the other between the first time axis and the last. The more Homura protects her, the less she's able to grow on her own.