Chapter Text
Madoka frantically dashes across a strange landscape, surrounded by black and white tiles, her shoes making a loud, echoed sound with each step. Her panting and footsteps pierce an overwhelming silence. Coming across a long staircase, she climbs with haste, reaching a higher level. Upon reaching the top, she finds a green exit sign, dimly offering direction and relief with a faint yet eerie buzz.
She approaches the door, with renewed hope of escaping the ethereal maze. Complex metal mechanisms give way, hissing and relieving hydraulic pressure, allowing Madoka to push it open.
[{Magia}]
Behind the exit lies a gray, stormy city, wind rushing every which way. Madoka sees a glimpse of a large, haunting figure in the sky, with gears of incredible size and an incomprehensible silhouette below it.
The city, reminiscent of Mitakihara, is in utter and total ruin. It seems nearly no buildings (the one she was standing on an exception) remain, a wasteland.
Then, Madoka notices something. A girl, one with long black hair and strange uniform. She moves with superhuman agility, purple light shining around her as she weaves around the broken pieces of Mitakhihara's buildings, somehow disappearing in the blink of an eye, just to end up somewhere else.
She moves with striking and adept maneuvers, showing a level of unimaginable experience. Yet, she seems to be fighting a losing battle.
A burst of flames comes from the sky's horrifying entity, which the girl fails to avoid. She falls from the air, like a swatted fly.
"No!" Madoka cries, knowing she can do nothing. The girl, despite her power, will surely be hurt.
A voice behind her is prompted by her desperate cry. "There's no hope for her in this fight."
Startled, Madoka turns around, and before her lies a white, cat-like creature, with red beads for eyes.
"Won't you do something? Anything!? She's in danger!" Madoka asks, voice shaken by worry.
"It can't be helped. It was foolish to face this foe alone, and she knew it."
Losing hope, Madoka shrinks down, scared to witness the girl die.
"But you have a unique power to do something here. You could save her, if you were willing to do something for me..." the creature continues.
"I'll do it! Anything! Just don't make me watch her get killed by that thing!" Madoka replies, desperate to save this girl.
"If you make a contract with me, and become a Magical Girl, you'll easily defeat that witch. The battle would be won, if you were to fight with her."
"A... Magical Girl?" Madoka asks, her mind struggling to process everything she is witnessing.
Then, the conversation is cut short by the shot of a pistol. The creature's expression remains unchanging, except for a hole in its head. Its color fades, and it falls limp.
Madoka, horrified, slowly backs away from its corpse, and turns around. The girl is standing right in front of her.
She grabs Madoka's shoulders, causing the latter to tremble and let out a soft whimper.
"Why!? Why do you keep doing this!? Please Madoka, Please! Just listen to my warning! Let me save you!" the black-haired girl begs, desperate for Madoka to heed her words. Her previous stone-like face seen in battle breaks, trembling and looking as if she will cry.
"I’m... I’m sorry..." Madoka replies, quiet and scared.
"Please... just let me fight alone! Don't listen to that thing! Run away, don't die here!"
"But... you'll die if I leave you alone, won't you? I can't... I can't let that happen!" responds Madoka, raising her voice as she tries to reason with the girl.
Her grip on Madoka's shoulders loosens, one arm returning to her side. It is cladded with an odd shield, reminiscent of a clock.
"I’m a Magical Girl, Madoka. Please, let me fight this thing. Let me protect you. I... I can't lose you!"
Madoka's fear subsides, replaced by confusion. Who is this girl? Does she know her? Why can't she let Madoka help?
The conversation is interrupted by a shadowy and ethereal figure, seemingly conjured with magic, laughing with a subtle sorrow.
The girl turns away, letting go of Madoka, facing the magical being. She makes a last remark to Madoka, "Listen to what I said!!"
In an instant, she disappears. Only a fraction of a second later, an explosion takes out her monstrous opponent. The fight resumes.
"Quickly, Madoka! Make a contract with me, and you can save her!"
Madoka turns around again, hit with more confusion. The creature is back, standing next to its own corpse.
"How are you-"
"There's no time to explain! Will you make the contract?"
"But she told me to run away! She doesn't want me to fight with her!"
"Will you let that stop you from helping her, Madoka?"
Madoka is conflicted, different thoughts buzzing around her mind. Only one decision could be made, and it was needed now.
To leave that girl to die would be too cruel.
"Okay... I'll make the contract! Anything to save her!"
"Would you be willing to pay for that wish by becoming a Magical Girl? Is it what you truly wish for, with all your soul?"
Madoka discards her feeble posture, taking on a confident stature, her hand to her heart.
"Yes! I wish to save her, and use whatever power I have to not let her die here!"
Madoka's body weakens, and she endures a great pain as a glowing light is removed from her, feeling like her heart is being ripped out.
"Very well then," the white creature speaks, as Madoka slowly falls due to her muscles loosening. "The contract has been made. Madoka Kaname, embrace your soul gem! You are going to be a powerful Magical Girl!"
With her remaining strength, Madoka reaches for the shining pink light.
[{End of Magia}]
[Timeline 72]
Madoka's eyes open. It is her bedroom.
To her side, plushies greet her, a colorful and familiar cast. She rises, immersed in the thick and warm blanket.
"It was all a dream? Felt kinda real to me, but I guess that makes sense..." she says to herself, tired. The day has to start eventually.
[{Desiderium}]
Homura wanders the streets of Mitakihara, looking for a particular friend, if you could call her that. She is weary, yet oddly soothed by the early sunrise and the atmosphere it brings, the city nudged awake by morning.
Still, cars move across the streets, their numbers slowly increasing. That cat is nimble, but she can take no chances. Madoka would be devastated if something were to happen to her.
Homura spots a black cat, walking gracefully down the sidewalk, having emerged from an alleyway. It's easy to see why someone would hold her so dear, adorable enough to make Homura smile softly as she approaches.
"There you are, Amy."
The cat meows, in a cute and tender tone. She walks up to the girl, eager for attention. Amy rubs her head against Homura's legs, still wearing the black tights of her Magical Girl uniform. Warmth radiates from Amy as she purrs, like a small motorcycle.
A smile is coaxed upon the face of Homura Akemi, like a piece of Madoka's joy and love for little felines is embedded within herself.
She gently picks up the cat, cradling her in her arms, then slowly scratches behind its ears.
"It's okay, Amy. I'll bring you somewhere safer" she speaks tenderly, looking fondly upon the small animal.
Then, Homura begins walking back to her residence. Amy will surely be happy to have a proper home.
[{End of Desiderium}]
[{Postmeridie}]
"Sayakaaaaa! Hitomiiiiii!!" Madoka shouts, running gleefully down the brick path towards Mitakihara Junior High.
The sky is blue, clear, and beautiful, as if the world is greeting the girls, and wishing them a good day.
"Took you long enough! We had to wait like, 2 minutes for you!" Sayaka remarks with a smile on her face.
Hitomi shakes her head slightly. "How impatient could you possibly be, Sayaka?"
"Me? Impatient? I was practically rotting out here until she showed up!" Sayaka jokes.
Madoka giggles, and joins her friends in walking to school.
"So, Hitomi, I heard you got another love letter from a secret admirer! How do you feel about it?" Madoka asks.
"I’m not quite sure... I hardly know him, and I don't know if he's worth my time..." Hitomi answers.
"Well, my mom told me that boys who lack the courage to confess in person are no good! Besides, I’m sure a popular and beautiful girl like yourself can find a better boy easily!"
Sayaka enters the conversation. "Wow Madoka, your mom is so cool! But what's the reason for consulting her for advice? You want to be popular with the boys like Hitomi, don't you?"
Madoka gets red in the face and defensive. "What!? No, it's just-"
"Oh, and those ribbons! Very cute! I see it clearly now: you're getting your mom to help you be pretty and attractive as Hitomi!"
"Actually, I only asked her-"
"Silly Madoka, you're my wife! I’m not letting any of those boys have you, you're mine!!"
Sayaka quickly grabs Madoka from behind, and tickles her viciously. Whenever she manages to break free, Sayaka is quick to regain the upper hand.
"Ah! Stop that! It-" Madoka cries, barely articulating through her laughter.
She bends her neck over Madoka's shoulder. "You're mine, Madoka! Mine!"
Hitomi only sighs and continues walking, ignoring the laughter and tomfoolery.
[{End of Postmeridie}]
School is quite normal.
Ms. Saotome, as she does every once in a while, is ranting about avoiding the mistakes made by her ex.
"Now boys, don't be so petty as to complain of how your eggs are cooked! Girls, don't waste your time with boys who act like that!"
Sayaka turns over to Madoka, whispering "I hope she has better luck next time, but it seems she's burning through guys at an alarmingly rapid rate!"
"Yeah... I feel kinda bad for her..." Madoka whispers back.
"Though, shouldn't we get to the lesson already?"
Heads snap back to the teacher as she begins to speak again, "oh, and I almost forgot! We have a new transfer student I will introduce to you all!"
The room goes silent with anticipation.
"Please give a warm welcome to our new classmate, Homura Akemi!"
The girl walks in, with striking black hair and purple eyes. She exudes a confident and cold aura as she steps towards the board in the front of the classroom.
[{Warning #1}]
Madoka is completely flabbergasted. The girl from her dream, the "magical girl"... she is right there! In the flesh! But...
Homura turns to face the class, stoic against all their intrigue. "Now, would you care to write your name for the class?" the teacher asks.
She immediately does as asked, writing her name with precision and elegance, like she had done it a million times before.
"Now, Miss Akemi has been in the hospital for a while now with a heart condition, so she may need help with her studies! Please be kind and understanding to her!"
Homura turns her eyes upon Madoka, with an intense, piercing gaze.
The girl feels as if her soul is being ripped open and stared into. Her face goes entirely red, and she takes a closer look at the transfer student.
The strange girl from her dream said she wanted to protect her, and seemed to really care about Madoka. If this is the same exact girl... does she matter that much to the Homura that stands before her very eyes?
Madoka is afflicted with an entirely new feeling while looking upon her new classmate. Something about her, like maybe her long, silky, and perfect black hair... or her stunning purple eyes... it makes her unable to look away, no matter how much she tries. Maybe it's some sort of magic, like she saw in the dream?
Thoughts buzz around her head, silencing the world around her. She can only think of that girl... Homura.
Her attention is quickly pulled by Sayaka, who remarks "wow, she's really beautiful, huh? Looks like Hitomi has some competition..." in hushed tone.
Madoka struggles to fit Sayaka's words into her Homura-oriented mind. Once she processes them, she agrees.
"Oh! Yes! I uhh... I think so too..."
[{End of Warning #1}]
"Wait! Madoka, she's coming towards your desk!"
Madoka looks forward again, and to her shock, Homura is approaching her of all people. Her heart begins to race, trying to break out of her chest, despite the cardiovascular system supposedly being Homura's weakness. Her face goes entirely red, more than any point earlier that day.
The girl stops next to her desk. Madoka opens her mouth to say something, but can manage no words, caught in a mixture of panic and unknown feelings.
"Hello Madoka. You are the Nurse's Aide for this class, to my knowledge. Will you show me the way to the nurse?"
Madoka practically overheats, somehow panicked by a mere question. What Nurse's Aide struggles this badly to do their duty?
"You do not look normal. Are you okay? You seem to be overwhelmed." Homura asks with cold concern.
"Umm... I uh... I'm fine, thank you for asking!!" Madoka manages to respond.
Madoka attempts to focus upon the task at hand. "Right! Nurse!"
She forces her body to bolt upright from her seat, despite it shaking with nerve. How hard could it possibly be to help the poor girl go get her medicine, or whatever she needed?
Madoka manages to will a false confidence. "Let's go!"
They finally leave the classroom, and Homura leads the way. Some Aide Madoka is...
"So uhh... Homura, right? Where did you come from, again?"
"Oh, I thought Ms. Saotome already told you. I was expecting you would comment on my unique name."
"Expecting? Does everyone ask about it?"
Homura stops, and looks at the floor, like a rock was cast upon her cool and confident shell. She frowns, through just barely.
"No. Never mind that thought."
"I mean... it's not a weird name! I think it's pretty cool!"
Homura seems to have her composure shook again, though wills herself back into normal order.
"I’m sorry... I really hope I didn't hurt you, or make you feel bad!"
"It's fine."
A thought strikes Madoka's mind. Does Homura know her already? She already got her name correct without asking, and appears to have a very subtle vulnerability while around her. Have they... met?
She's looking too far into it, probably.
"Oh, now here you just take a-"
Homura turns before even being instructed.
"Oh, Homura... you seem to already know where you're going."
The girl returns no answer. They continue walking, reaching a hallway suspended high above the ground, between two sections of the school. The glass walls allow outside light to bathe the two girls.
Homura stops abruptly with her right foot, and turns around on her heels to face Madoka. As if sending a shockwave her way, Madoka trembles.
[{Puella In Somnio}]
Homura stares into Madoka's eyes. Once again, Madoka becomes flustered.
"Madoka Kaname... do you cherish your current life? Are your family and friends dear enough to stop you from acting rashly and in the moment?"
Madoka freezes. She thinks back to her dream, in which Homura warned her not to make a deal with that creature. Is this what she's talking about? What is so awful about it that warrants such an alert?
"Yes! I value my life, and I love my friends and family! I won't throw it all away for something like that!"
"Are you sure? Or will you simply forget when you're presented with a tempting opportunity?"
"I am sure!" she says, before recalling the dream again. Whatever is happening, or will happen, Homura is looking out for her. She can't ignore someone like her!
"And I would never do that! I won't! I promise to you, Homura!"
Homura's demeanor slips again, and something resembling shock reaches her face.
"Good. I hope you mean that."
Homura continues to walk to the nurse's, as if the confrontation didn't happen.
[{End of Puella In Somnio}]
[{Desiderium}]
Madoka, Sayaka, and Hitomi are hanging out at a local burger joint.
"What!? Why would she ever say that to you!? I mean, at least don't be so vague!" Sayaka says, bothered by a recount of Homura's warning.
She continues. "I mean, at first I thought she was just a beautiful girl with all sorts of talents, but it looks like she's just another New Age freak!"
"She's not a freak! I think... I think that she might know something." Madoka responds, feeling like Sayaka is being too harsh.
"Oh great, and now she's rubbing off onto you! Poor, innocent Madoka... you can't let her craziness get to your head!"
Madoka gives up her defensiveness. Sayaka, as well-meaning as she may be, is quite stubborn.
Hitomi chimes in. "Madoka, are you sure you two haven't met before? She doesn't seem to approach you like a stranger at all."
"Well, I guess not really? I’m not sure, but that would probably be the sensible answer..."
Sayaka butts in once again. "What does that mean? Are you saying you met her, but only kinda? That doesn't make sense!"
"Well... I first met her in a dream..."
Sayaka bursts out laughing, even slamming the table with her palm, while Hitomi giggles, trying not to be too patronizing.
"Oh, what are you now, an Anime protagonist!? Are you destined to meet her, brought together by fate, the universe, time, and space? Man, you really crack me up sometimes, Madoka!!"
"Sayaka!! This is serious, and it's really been bothering me lately! I just... I can't get what she said out of my head..."
Hitomi rejoins the conversation, asking "Madoka, are you sure you've never met her before? Maybe you saw her once in the past, and her likeness happened to reappear in your subconscious."
"Hmm, I don't think I have..."
Sayaka swoops in again for more joking, "Oh, I know this one! You met in a past life, and your souls are now bound together for all eternity!"
Madoka sighs, giving up once more on convincing her stubborn friend of anything.
Hitomi checks her cell phone. "Oh dear, it appears I've spent all the time I have for today's leisure."
"Oh, what is it?" Sayaka asks.
"Tea Ceremony Lessons. I have to go, I'll see you all later!"
[{End of Desiderium}]
Hitomi departs, leaving Sayaka and Madoka alone.
"Hey, I think I seriously need to talk to you about something." Madoka states.
"Oh, this isn't about Homura, is it?"
She pauses. "Yes, it is... could you please be mature for at least a little bit?"
"Not part of my personality, but I'll try my best! What exactly is it?"
"I think... I think I really like Homura."
Silence. Only the quiet chatter of a few tables remained.
"Do you mean like..."
"Yes. I think. I've never felt this way before! I just... I wanted to tell someone!"
Sayaka pauses for a moment. Her friend is pouring her heart out, so it may be the time to finally be empathetic.
"Look. She may be insane, but if you wanna be with the crazy girl... I won't judge you."
Madoka rolls her eyes. "Thanks, Sayaka."
Sayaka thinks of Kyosuke, her own crush. Maybe this is just Madoka's Kyosuke... except a girl, and totally different person.
"You know Madoka... I'd be willing to help you get with her. I'll be wingman Sayaka, helping you become her girlfriend!"
"Wait, really!? You would do that for me?"
"Of course! It's what friends do, after all!"
"Thank you Sayaka! That means a lot!!"
"It's no big deal... oh, do you wanna go to the mall with me?"
"Look at all the CDs I managed to find! Man, Kyosuke will be so happy to listen to these!"
Madoka looks into her shopping bag. "Wow! This is a lot! And you're telling me these are rare?"
"Well, not too rare for me to get my hands on, apparently! It's worth it to help cheer him up!"
"Wow Sayaka, you're such a good friend! Kyosuke is really lucky to have someone like you!"
Sayaka blushes a little. "You really think so?"
"Of course! I'm lucky to have you, too!"
"Aww, thanks Madoka!"
They walk out the automatic doors of the shopping mall, satisfied with their trip.
Then, a voice reaches Madoka.
"Madoka, could I please have a moment with you?" The voice asks.
"Huh!?" Madoka reacts.
"Madoka, what's wrong?"
"I think I heard someone call me... they want to talk with me, I think!"
"Oh... weird, I didn't hear anything!"
"Madoka, could you perhaps stop on the way home, so I could explain some things for you?"
It would be nice to clear some things up, with everything weird happening lately... but who even is this? What do they want?
As if summoned, Homura walks over. Madoka is greatly startled, her attention in a tug-of-war between Homura and the strange voice that seems to be coming from inside her head.
[{Nice to meet you (Rebellion)}]
"Hello, Madoka."
As she did earlier, Madoka rapidly enters a flustered panic. She can't just do nothing, she needs to act! Yet, she cannot. She looks at Homura's unchanging face, struggling to say anything. Sayaka can surely help.
"Um... could you excuse me for just a moment?"
She looks somewhat perplexed. "Oh. I will be right here."
Madoka is relieved to hear that, but her nerve has not subsided. She turns to Sayaka, whispering "what do I do!? I’m so nervous!"
Sayaka, put on the spot, quickly tries to find the answer for her friend. She's not exactly an expert on this, but she can think of something.
"Okay Madoka, why don't you start with a compliment? You know, tell her something you like about her today!" She whispers.
"Oh! Great idea!" Madoka exclaims, albeit quietly.
Madoka turns back to Homura, trying to gather what courage she can as Homura's intimidating aura weakens her. Though, the girl remains somewhat confused.
"You... your hair looks really pretty today, Homura!" she manages to squeak out.
Homura blushes, failing to hide it. She smiles, for once, at Madoka, who is similarly red in the face.
"Oh. Thank you, Madoka. That's very kind of you."
Madoka smiles back, glad she managed to put a smile on the rock-solid face of Homura Akemi. Looks like Sayaka knows her stuff!
As to reciprocate Madoka, Homura tells her "I think you look lovely today as well, Madoka."
Madoka's face becomes so flushed it's as if it were glowing. She'll definitely remember that compliment.
"Th- thank you, Homura! That's so sweet of you!"
Homura smiles softly at Madoka. Eventually, she remembers who she is supposed to be, and her face is turned cold once again. She can't be weak again, no matter how kind Madoka is.
[{End of Nice to meet you}]
"Were you, by chance, called by someone or something recently?"
"I— I think so, yes. I heard a voice, and it wanted me to–"
"Don't listen. If you really meant what you said earlier, you'll ignore it. You won't let that thing get to you."
Madoka is stunned by the second warning. Sayaka, overhearing this conversation, is wide-eyed and shocked, seeing firsthand Homura's cold and cryptic message.
Homura decides to continue walking, as if nothing were said at all.
Madoka remembers something. She still needs to get her number! She quickly catches up with Homura, in order to not let the opportunity go to waste.
"Oh! Homura! Could I ask something of you?"
"What is it?"
"Well, you're trying to protect me, aren't you?"
"You could say that." she answers, trying not to give up too much information.
"So, I was thinking... maybe we should be in touch, or something. You know, so I could contact you— if it doesn't trouble you!"
"Oh, are you asking for my cell number?"
"Yeah! But it's okay if you don't want to tell me! I hope I’m not wasting your time..."
Homura appears bewildered, as if this were a particularly rare occurrence.
"You've never wasted my time. Give me your cellphone, and I'll enter the number in."
Madoka fumbles for her phone, turns it on, and hands it to Homura. Despite all her talents, she types slowly. She eventually adds herself as a contact, and returns the phone to Madoka.
She elaborates. "Now, don't hesitate to call or text me if you are ever in danger, or if you hear that voice again. Understand?"
"Yes! I'll do it! Thank you, Homura!"
Then, Homura walks away. Sayaka stops spectating to go talk with Madoka.
"Wow. Do you really believe in all that crazy stuff!? Is she making you crazy? Is that why you're hearing the voice of some evil monster!?"
"Sayaka, calm down! It can't be her fault, and I know it! She wouldn't do that!" Madoka answers, just wanting her headstrong best friend to listen.
Sayaka sighs. "Look, I know you really like her, but you really can't see how ridiculous all that sounds? I don't want to judge you, but I don't know if that transfer student is a good influence on you..."
"Well, why don't you just wait to see what happens next? Maybe you'll figure out for yourself that she's not so bad!"
"Sure... I can try that."
[{Scaena Felix}]
Later, after arriving home, Madoka plops onto her bed, giddy and excited to text Homura.
Madoka: Hey, would you be willing to go eat with me at the local fast food place tomorrow? It's okay if not, I’m not picky about the date.
She eagerly awaits a response, though realizes that she should give the girl some time to answer back, and maybe do something else. Though, she gets a notification as soon as she has that thought.
Homura <3: I would be delighted to, and am available tomorrow. What time would be most convenient for you?
Madoka giggles with glee. She didn't know Homura was this courteous!
Madoka: Right after school would be great, if that's okay with you!
Homura <3: Understood. I'll be there.
Madoka: See you there!!
Madoka can hardly contain her excitement. She's going to go out with Homura!!
[{End of Scaena Felix}]
Later, after finishing her homework like the role model she is, Madoka prepares to sleep for the night, among the comfort of her soft and cuddly peers in bed.
In her mint-colored pajamas, she collapses onto bed, cozy and with Homura on her mind. Yet, something is wrong.
[{Odd World #1}]
A shadow moves across the blinds of her window. It's kind of like a cat, but actually a fox, but also neither...
Wait, is that the thing? From her dream? That was talking to her?
"Hello Madoka. Sorry if we got off on the wrong foot, but I would like to clear things up with you. I'm–"
Madoka screams, flings her blanket off, and rushes out of bed, before darting out the room.
"Wait! Please, don't be so afraid!"
The creature's words do nothing. She runs down the quiet and dark hallway, reaching the bedroom of her parents.
Tomohisa is startled, and leaps into action. "Madoka, what's wrong? What happened?"
"There was something that found me in my room! It was behind the window, and it was trying to–"
He comforts the frightened Madoka, trying it calm her down. "Was this a nightmare?"
"No! I didn't go to sleep yet, it was really there!"
"It's okay, I'll come with you to your room. Don't be afraid, I'll keep you safe."
"Okay..."
Ultimately, her father finds nothing in her room, though understands Madoka's fear was genuine. He allows her to sleep somewhere else in the home, so that she may rest peacefully.
The girl considers contacting Homura, but it is likely too late. She can talk later in person.
[{End of Odd World #1}]
[{Venari Strigas}]
[GERTRUD]
The monstrous Rose Garden Witch flies about the arena of its labyrinth, but it is no match for the fearsome and experienced Mami Tomoe.
Shot after shot, some connecting, her plans work, and everything aligns as she intended. The witch is cornered.
"Legare!" Mami shouts.
Quickly, ribbons appear and extend around the witch. It tries to free itself, but to no avail. It becomes completely entangled, bound by Mami's magic.
Then, she summons forth an uncountable number of ribbons, forming them into a cannon-sized gun, pointed right at the witch.
"Tiro... Finale!"
An incredible blast shakes the labyrinth, and the magic which composes the Rose Garden Witch is dispersed, the entity ceasing to exist.
[{End of Venari Strigas}]
The labyrinth fades away, leaving her standing in a secluded corner of Mitakihara Park. The witch's grief seed flies into her hand, a flashy move, but with nobody to witness it. At least she assumed.
"I am sorry to arrive uninvited."
[{Umbra Nigra}]
Mami turns around. She sees a somewhat familiar girl, one with black hair and purple eyes.
"I don't quite recall who you are. I don't mean to be rude, but I'd like an introduction."
"Apologies. I am Homura Akemi, a Magical Girl."
"Ah, I figured as much. So, you're the new transfer student everyone's talking about, yes?"
Homura nods stoically, keeping her eyes locked on Mami.
Mami remembers that she must keep her guard up. She doesn't know if this girl can be trusted.
"Why are you here, if you don't mind me asking?"
"I came to talk and introduce myself to you. You're the primary Magical Girl of Mitakihara, correct?"
"Correct. In fact, I’m the only one. Or at least I was, until you showed up."
"On the topic of being solo, I have a proposition for you."
"Hm? What do you propose, Miss Akemi?"
"I believe it would be best if we were to cooperate in preparing for the coming Walpurgisnacht."
Mami thinks for a moment, considering the idea. "That would make sense. Are you sure you'll be fit for the battle? It will likely be your hardest battle yet, Walpurgis is–"
"I know. It descends at the end of the month. I can handle it."
Mami stares at Homura, in mild bewilderment. How does she know already? Did Kyubeyy tell her as well?
"Well, I suppose you'd be a valuable ally. I'll accept your proposition. Though, will just us two be enough?"
Homura answers instantly. "Yes. If you're thinking of getting new girls into the fight, it won't work. Though, if you could get Kyoko to–"
"No. We had a falling out. I just don't think we could work together ever again after what happened...." Mami interrupts.
"Very well. Just don't do anything foolish that will get you killed before then."
Mami is taken aback, unable to respond as Homura turns her back and walks away. The girl will be a great help against Walpurgis, but she's quite the cold and abrasive type. It's fine, they can work it out with the ample time remaining.
[{End of Umbra Nigra}]
[{Scaena Felix}]
The Kaname family sit at the table, enjoying Tomohisa's cooking. Madoka is feeling ecstatic, daydreaming about Homura and eating good food! Wait, Homura! The burger place!
"Oh, mom! I’m going to eat with a friend after school today, is that okay?"
"Of course! Who is it?"
"She's a new girl in our class, a transfer student!"
"What's her name? What is she like?"
"Her name is Homura Akemi. She's really cool and has so many skills!"
"Ah! She sounds nice. I hope you two have fun together!"
"I do too! Have a great day today, Madoka!" Her father adds.
"Thank you, mom and dad!"
Madoka finishes what remains of her breakfast, and leaves the house for school.
[{End of Scaena Felix}]
[{Postmeridie}]
The bell rings, bringing forth lunchtime. The classroom buzzes with conversation, students temporarily freed from their studies.
"So, Madoka, do you wanna eat lunch on the roof today?" Sayaka asks.
"Of course! Hitomi, would you like to come too?"
"Actually, Madoka, I think I'll eat in here today, if that's okay with you."
"Oh, okay! Sayaka, let's go!"
Above the girls is a beautiful, clear, and blue sky. The air is pleasant, and both are feeling great.
"I asked Homura to go eat with me after school, and she said yes!"
"Great job! I'm proud of you, but it wouldn't have been possible without the wise Wingman Sayaka!"
Madoka giggles, glad her friend seems more trustworthy of her crush.
"Oh, are you going to see Kyosuke today?"
"Yep! I’m gonna bring him the CDs from yesterday!"
"Ah, I hope it goes well for you!!"
"Same for you and your date!"
Madoka sighs. "I haven't gotten that far yet, Sayaka! She doesn't even know I like her..."
Sayaka snickers. "I know, I know. I’m sure once you tell her, she'll take you as her girlfriend in a heartbeat!"
Madoka smiles, imagining such a scenario. That would be so amazing, but would Homura want someone like her in that way?
"I don't think it's that easy" she responds.
"Trust me Madoka, you're a real catch! She'd be nuts to reject you, more nuts than believing in supernatural creatures!"
Maybe Sayaka wasn't completely cleared of her skepticism, but she was putting in the effort. "Aw, thanks Sayaka!"
"I mean, I just tell it how it is, don't have to thank me!" Sayaka says with a smirk.
Madoka smiles, her confidence reinforced, perhaps resembling a hundredth of Homura's.
[{End of Postmeridie}]
[{Desiderium}]
Madoka walks into the usual burger place, surprised to see Homura already there, waiting for her.
"Oh, hi Homura!! How are you already here?"
"I didn't want to keep you waiting. Shall we get our food?"
"Yes! And thank you for that!"
"It's no problem for me."
They order, get their meals, and sit at a booth together. Homura sits with perfect and upright posture, eyes locked on Madoka, who is visibly nervous.
"So, what did you want to talk about?" Homura asks.
"Umm, I didn't really have anything specific... I just wanted to spend time with you. What would you like to talk about?"
"Well, I suppose I can try to explain some things for you."
"Ah, that would be appreciated! Could you maybe tell me what that thing is? You know, the thing that looks like a weird cat?"
"How do you know its appearance? Have you seen it?"
Madoka pauses, hoping she won't say something wrong. "Well, it appeared at my bedroom window, wanting to talk to me, or something..."
"When was this?"
"Last night. It was really scary, I had to use the couch to fall asleep!"
"Wait, what did it say to you?" Homura asks, too surprised to berate the girl for not contacting her.
"I ran away before it could say much. I mean, it seems like you've been trying really hard to warn me about it, and I just got scared—"
"Do not be ashamed. What you did was wise. However, I did not expect you to take me seriously so soon..."
"I’m glad I did the right thing, but why wouldn't I believe you?"
"You've only just met me yesterday. It's natural to be skeptical, similar to Sayaka Miki."
Madoka starts to second-guess herself. "Should I not have trusted you immediately? Have I weirded you out? I’m really sorry if I–"
"No, it was just a simple observation. I’m proud of you, Madoka. Please, continue being smart like that."
Red grows across Madoka's face, Homura rekindling the usual fluster, strong as ever.
"Wow... I’m rarely ever called smart, only my parents really say that..."
"Well, in this case, you made a good decision. It's best you remember that."
"I will! I definitely will!"
"Good." She responds coldly.
The conversation stops, going silent for a while. Madoka thinks of what to say, now that the main point of conversation is over. The girls consume the meal in front of them, Madoka enjoying Homura's company and vice versa (though Homura won't show it).
Madoka thinks it would be nice to do this again. Maybe she'll eventually tell Homura about her little crush... that can come after they've spent more time together.
"So, Homura, I was thinking..."
"What is it?"
"Would you like to go to the park sometime soon? Maybe tomorrow, or in a few days— if you're not busy!!"
Homura considers the offer. She has a lot to do in this timeline, but it wouldn't hurt to spend more time with Madoka. Things are going well, and it's worth the time to spend time with her. She is the reason for all that work, after all.
"Hm. I will likely be busy tomorrow, so would two days from now be fine with you?"
"Yes! That's great! I'll be looking forward to it!!"
[{End of Desiderium}]
Homura smiles softly at her enthusiasm. If only this world were what she thought it was... if only she could be as she is, and not be cruelly punished...
[{Scaena Felix}]
Sayaka opens the door to Kyosuke's hospital room, finding the boy looking outside, curtains flowing in the wind from the open window.
Sayaka walks in, Kyosuke's attention now on her. In her bag, she has recently purchased CDs from the mall.
"Oh, hello Sayaka."
"Hi, Kyosuke!"
She sits in a chair by his hospital bed, then unzips her bag, pulling out a CD. She hands it to Kyosuke.
"Brought ya something!"
"Wow! How did you even find this!? Man, you're a real genius when it comes to finding rare CDs!"
"Oh, I just bought it at the shopping mall, no big deal! Just thought you'd like it!" she says humbly.
"Thank you very much, Sayaka!"
The girl smiles as she watches Kyosuke place the disk into his player. He hands her one of the earbuds to listen along, yet the wire is too short. She has to move closer.
[{Vocalise Op. 34 No. 14}]
They listen in silence. Sayaka internally panics, brought so close to her crush. "I’m so close to him!" she thinks to herself.
She thinks back to watching him play the Violin when they were both very young. He was incredible, and the one who introduced her to Classical music in the first place...
Though, as they listen together, she sees Kyosuke looking out the window, with a sullen look on his face. His left hand is wrapped in bandages, unable to move properly, stopping the prodigy from playing his instrument.
She hopes that his hand can get better— somehow. If only she could hear him play again...
[{End of Vocalise Op. 34 No. 14}]
Sayaka walks out of the hospital, with some sad feelings in her heart. She walks slowly, thinking about Kyosuke. The sky's melancholic twilight surrounds her, sprawling above the city.
She looks down at her shoes, walking home to her family residence.
[{Gradus Prohibitus}]
Though, something extremely strange begins. The light of the world appears to fade away, white particles whizzing by through the new darkness.
The sight brings her head up again, only to realize she is no longer in Mitakihara. Her surroundings no longer even look real, turned into some warped, space-like world.
"Where am I!? Hello!? Somebody, please tell me what's going on!!!" she cries, desperate for someone to help. There is nobody nearby.
The sound of grinding and creaking metal echoes out from behind her. She turns around and, to her horror, finds a monster made of rusted metal and some kind of pitch-black cloud of shadow.
"Stay back!! Stay back!!!" she screams.
Sayaka turns around, before running through the maze-like land she has entered, trying to escape the horrible thing behind her. She has no idea what's happening, but refuses to let herself die in this place.
She looks back, seeing it move very slowly, practically dragging itself closer. However, Sayaka finds herself cornered.
"Help me!! Somebody, help me!!!"
The monster draws closer, metallic claw ready to attack.
[{Credens Justitiam}]
Suddenly, a blast echoes out, accompanied by a burst of yellow light behind the rusted creature.
The monster's dark body disintegrates into the air. Its metal pieces fly out, no longer held together by magic.
In front of Sayaka now stands a girl in a peculiar outfit, colored in yellow with coffee accents. She has distinctive drill curls. Somehow, she's even more confused.
"Are you okay? Are you hurt?" the girl asks.
"I'm okay! Thank you so much!! But... who are you?"
"I am Mami Tomoe. I'm a Magical Girl!"
"Magical... girl?" Sayaka asks, consciousness slipping away before she can realistically receive an answer.
Her legs give up, and she faints, before being caught by Mami's gentle arms.