While their relationship is central to the story, they never explicitly declare their love for each other or have a "first date" in the traditional sense.
Here's why:
* Magical Girl trope: In magical girl anime, romantic relationships are often explored subtly. The focus is on the girls' mission to save the world and their friendships.
* Gradual development: Their relationship develops gradually throughout the series, evolving from playful teasing to mutual respect and admiration.
* "Sailor Moon" and "Tuxedo Mask" identities: They initially connect through their alter egos, which adds a layer of complexity to their interactions.
While there are moments that could be interpreted as a budding romance, like the ending of the first season where Usagi says "I like you, Tuxedo Mask," it's never explicitly stated that they are officially dating.
Their relationship is ultimately one of deep trust and shared purpose, with love being a significant but not the primary driving force.