Magia Record Main Story Part 2 Chapter 12

Episode 4:

Summary by bigscarythings
After all the shenanigans of Parts 1-3, culminating in averting Mokyu's assassination that caused the previous timeline to end in such disaster, Iroha has ascended to her Infinity form with Mokyu and Ui. She thanks the faction leaders for helping her. Rabi and Yuna inquire about and observe Ui's condition - it's like Iroha has absorbed Ui and Mokyu both, taking on the form she did with Rabi, and with Ui and Mokyu appearing as golden, ghost-like apparitions. Still, the gang is chuffed to have overcome the first obstacle, and the girls are determined to slay the Mirror Witch and save their friends. They know now that the Witch herself must still be housed in her mansion, so Yuna wants to go take her down at once.

But things aren't so simple - everyone senses magic gathering. Livia observes that the Mirror Witch's army seems to be changing their strategy now that Iroha has ascended, with her forces mobilizing towards the girls are located. The Mirror Witch is no longer following the same moves as she was in the previous timeline, meaning they can't predict her next moves. With Iroha holding all the Kimochi Stones now, if she gets taken down, everyone else falls apart with her - thus, they need to defend Iroha and take down all the Familiars in order to tackle the Witch herself. Even though Iroha is very powerful, if all the Familiars gang up on her, she might not make it...

Sudachi remarks that if Livia heads over to where the Witch is and focuses on her, her magic might kick in and kill the Mirror Witch...but Livia says she can't die again.

Just as they're floating up a creek, though, Iroha feels a familiar spike of magic - from Touka and Nemu! Ui realizes that Iroha's ascension here must have been the crux that Touka and Nemu's plan needed. We briefly jump over to the hospital with Sakurako smiling, affirming aloud that the TouNemu secret project has achieved stage two. And with that, we're back to Iroha and friends, where Touka and Nemu finally spawn in person in these snazzy Uwasa-like forms, but otherwise their same old selves.

In the ensuing battle node, Iroha hugs Touka and Nemu as hard as she possibly can, to the point Touka and Nemu complain - but since Ui can't hug her in this form, she has to double her efforts to make up for it! That prompts Ui to ask how exactly the TouNemu project finally succeeded, but they have to defeat this wave of familiars (generic familiars and a Tsuruno and Yachiyo evil copy) to find out

The battle is much easier than TouNemu thought; they observe the Familiars abruptly pulling out, as if they realized they couldn't win. They didn't appear to be afraid, but maybe they were...? Ui, though, asks the pressing question: what have Touka and Nemu been trying to do? Kagome asks the same; the memories of the previous timeline have traumatized her in ways. Touka says she didn't mean to upset everyone, and Nemu defends herself, saying she was against this plan, but Touka complains she herself couldn't just run away on her own - but they calm down and turn to Ui, asking first what she thinks this was about. Ui suspects this plan has to do with the Will of the Universe, and with a giggle, Touka gives her a gold star for her answer.

Over a starry background, we get a quick recap of Touka and Nemu's steps to this point: they tried spreading the truth of megucas through social media, but their posts never gained traction. They mapped crimes and accidents with the behaviors and presence of magical girls, along with researching the past and observing the bizarre utter absence of magical girls in recorded history, and began to conclude on their own that there was some kind of force preventing magical girls from being known. Touka remarks, however, that they had only a theory, not hard evidence - in the same way that they have no definitive proof about the entropy death of the universe that Kyubey describes, or proof that magical girls really were involved in historical events. Still, they did not want to risk falling victim to the Will of the Universe, and decided they needed to temporarily remove their existence so they'd no longer be subject to it, biding their time until Iroha was able to assemble all the Kimochi Stones, which have the potential to create limitless magic power through the APS - necessary for their plans.

Nemu, however, knew that as long as they were megucas, they would be subject to the Will of the Universe's power...and so Nemu used the last ounce of her magic to convert them both into Uwasas, causing them to lie dormant until the conditions of the Rumor were met - which was simply for IroUi to secure the APS. It seems Ui figured out this part of the goal, which was why she was insistent on serving as the APS's core.

Ui asks if this means they're no longer megucas, and Nemu confirms such; they are the Uwasa Queens, who can use their Transformation and Manifestation powers to create Rumors. Just as Sakurako was given power through Nemu, TouNemu are being given power through Iroha and Ui. Iroha realizes it's like Kagome and Rii-chan's situation, and Touka confirms, likening it to a parasitical relationship. Ui wonders if they have enough magic to keep TouNemu going, and Nemu says yes, the magic power it takes to do this is enormous...but with the three of their powers in play, they can constantly absorb, convert and transform energy, thus forming the a perpetual motion machine of their dreams!

Kagome and Rabi grumble that Touka and Nemu sure could've told them all this in advance, and that a lot of things would've been so much different if they did, but Touka says not so - consider how all their efforts to publicize magical girls were all swept away, or that people who strive to break the status quo become victim to the universe's machinations. They needed to ensure the WotU couldn't surmise their goals, or they'd be sabotaged for sure. There was also the fact that while Folklore and TouNemu both believed in the WotU, their responses to it were diametrically different - resignation versus resistance. It was best for Touka and Nemu to stay out of things until they saw the chips fall into one place or another.

So Livia summarizes the hierarchy reawl quick - "Super Iroha" is giving power to Queens Touka and Nemu, who give power to Uwasas. She says the Familiars must've fled because they feared TouNemu's newfound powers - but Himena objects, saying she didn't get that feeling, even if Toukarin supposed it was the case... Shizuka asks if it means the Familiars have some new plan in motion, and Himena figures so.

Sure enough, angry Aru pipes up with a red alert - the Familiars are approaching the KO'd megucas over at the Puella Care trailer! Kagome observes that it's strange; from the memory leaf, the girls had all witched out without the Mirror Witch needing to raise a finger. Why would she need to kill them herself now? Panning over various scenes, like an unconscious ShiguHagu, or a swarm of Familiars, Nemu realizes that the Mirror Witch must have deduced the next part of TouNemu's plan and is acting to derail it. There's no time to explain the next steps, then - Touka says if they want to win, they have to hurry and save all the KO'd gucas! Touka and Nemu get to flying, much to Shizuka's protests - she can't fly like they can! But it looks like Iroha helps the others with that, and everyone takes off.

Up in the sky, Sudachi and Shizuka fumu and ask what the plan is, with Sudachi figuring it's something to do with their Queen Uwasa powers. Touka gives a gold star to Sudachia as well, but as for the plan, they'll just have to wait and see.

They manage to land at PC's HQ ahead of the mob, but Yozuru observes the enemies are closing in fast. Iroha recalls the incident that killed Ui in the previous timeline, and Rabi decides they all need to fend off the mob for as long as it takes for TouNemu to fulfill their gambit. After some chatter, TouNemu finally explain that they believe the megucas being enthralled by nightmares is ultimately the result of another intervention of the WotU...so if they make it so that the megucas aren't megucas, but Uwasas, too...

Through the power of Kagome's book (I think), containing all the stories of the magical girls gathered here, TouNemu get to recovering the magical girls - in a very self-congratulatory way, like "See?! We've been even better than the universe since the very beginning!" that makes Yuna and the other magical girls cringe - even Iroha! But getting ahold of herself, Iroha asks that Kagome shares the bad timeline memories with the other magical girls when they wake up, and she and Aru agree to get to it!

In the ensuing fight, Shizuka is put against the ropes, sensing that Familiars are all coming in droves...until a familiar voices chides her, saying that if their leader panics, what's to stop everyone else in the Tokime Clan from doing so as well? A wide-eyed Shizuka turns to Uwasified Charu and Sunao, who tell her that everyone's awake, and things are going to be okay! We cut over to Juri, who roars into battle, saying she'll cook all the Familiars well-done, while Ao tells Juri that she's getting WAY too into this. Meanwhile, Momoko checks on Kaede and Rena; Rena says she feels like crap, and had an equally shit nightmare to boot...Kaede remarks it must've been because of the Mirrors Witch. Kanagi remarks that it was like hope had turned to despair on a dime, and Mitama says that despite Mikoto's circumstances, they can't just let her have her way... But now that they're back in play, Kanagi says, the end of magical girls will now turn back to happiness!

After the fight, Hikaru, having woken up, zooms straight to Yuna's side, shocked and relieved (and teary-eyed) that Yuna hasn't been caught by the police after all! She was so worried after the catacombs were uncovered... Yuna wonders what kinds of nightmares everyone's been having. On the NM side of things, Miyuri and ShiguHagu talk about the war Himena and San declared against humanity and how terrible things went... The Folklore girls seem to relay their nightmare to Rabi, who commends them for their endurance and survival. Livia says it's time they turn the tables; Yozuru observes it's still some time away before Ui's death in the other timeline, so the next move is for everyone to take on the Mirror Witch mansion.

Mitama speaks up, and Livia seems to explain she's not going to let her magic ruin their chances now - so she's going to be fighting away from all the other megucas. Livia bids her and Mitama good luck that they'll see each other again in one piece. But before she goes, she asks what Mitama and Kanagi's nightmares were - Mitama's was an unending series of unfortunate events, and Kanagi describes hers as a world devastated by war, with all happiness lost... With a cheerful smile, Livia remarks something like, well, if everything on earth is in deep shit, then at least that makes it awful hard to get too wound up in Kamihama's woes - and urges them go forth with their heads held high.

We cut to Mitama with Kanagi and Momoko, telling Momoko, saying with this approach into the Mirrors Labyrinth, they're venturing into hell together - just as Momoko had promised in Chapter 9. Kanagi says she's coming, too (旅は道連れ世は情け/"just like how it's reassuring to have a companion on our travels, it is important for us to be kind and help one another as we pass through this life (https://kotowaza-dictionary.jp/k0179/)") Momoko starts protesting about all this hell talk, but Kaede says Momoko's bond with KanaMita is strong enough to fulfill that promise - and where Momoko goes, KaeRena go, too! Kaede drags Rena along, despite Rena's protests, who gripes something like "hell is kind of a bit heavy for me..." (there's some kind of wordplay joke going on between her and Kanagi in that last bit that escapes me at the moment, but we're plowing past it for now)

Iroha observes everyone, noting that thanks to Kagome, everyone seems to understand what's going on. Yachiyo confirms, including how she and Mikazuki were able to defend Iroha with the inheritance of everyone's hopes...though despite being an Uwasa, she doesn't feel any different/like she actually is one. Tsuruno says Team Mikazuki is back in action, and they'll be working together with Iroha and Ui to bring about their future! Sana agrees, saying they'll save everyone this time! And Felicia just says she's happy when they're all together, and Ui proposes they all host a big party when they get back.

Iroha reflects on her friends' words - that no matter what, there is always hope to be gleaned from despair, and that this future will be brighter now. So to save all of megucakind and humanity, too, they'll all move out to the Mirrors mansion to stop the Witch from rewriting the past. She warns everyone that the Familiars will likely intercept, so she asks for help in maintaining a defense around the mansion :darcsword:

We cut to the various Uwasagucas doing just that - Riko, the Amanes, and Mifuyu are on one team, taking down their targets with success. Meanwhile, in Minaminagi, Hinano observes Familiars trying to move out to the mansion and struggles to stop the swarm - and gets a surprise assist from Sakurako! Sakurako says while she's worried about her creators, she's more worried about Hinano, now - and wants to do everything she can in Ryo and Ikumi's stead. Hinano thanks her.

In another group, Rika, Moka, and Manaka take down their target; Moka says she thought she was going to get killed, but Manaka tells her to buck up, noticing that some clones managed to sneak past them to Daito. There, a very out-of-character Nanaka and Shizuku copy taunt their foes, with Shizuku saying "I'll tear my hometown apart"... The Apartment Trio are like "dang, these are *really* bad copies :kaedestare:" :elisalaugh: Kanagi sweeps in and takes down the clones, who apologizes to the trio for worrying them so much. Mito smiles it off, saying they're all back to their usual business! Momoko calls out to Kanagi, saying she and Mitama are going ahead to the mansion; Kanagi tells them to take down whatever escapes her wrath.

We cut to Yachiyo and friends inside the mansion, at the entrance to Labyrinth. Yachiyo observes that despite everyone's efforts, they can't cut off the mansion entirely - enemies will eventually breach their defensive lines. Still, Ui, Touka, and Nemu, working in tandem, have gathered up a ton of energy and converted it to a fancy glowing arrow; Felicia delights over it, sensing its immense powers. Iroha thinks to herself that she hopes this battle will be their last...and, sensing magic, knows that the Mirror Witch is sure to respond, like she did in killing Ui. But she says she'll ensure the Mirror Witch - no, Mikoto Sena - comes out ahead of schedule...

Iroha shoots her arrow, and the screen turns white...the mansion shakes, and with some more flashes of light...

The world turns into an odd, "inside of a mirror" landscape (https://i.imgur.com/EfMhdhg.jpg) - a clean, gray-white slate with refracted light and rings of rainbows. We cut to the various groups we saw earlier, wondering over this strange new space - they sense a power as immense as Iroha's, and, with a quick red flash, the characters recoil, saying they feel like they've been cut by something, though they don't know how or what did it. With Hinano and Sakurako, we see Sakurako collapse off the screen; Hinano worries over her. Sakurako struggles to describe the feeling, saying it's like this power is "denying/negating her existence" (the same wording as in the Witches' Paradox event) - copying and suppressing her... Hinano understands completely - everything in her is screaming to get out of here now.

Rika's like, hey, weren't we a long ways away from the Mirrors Mansion? And yet they sense its powers so strongly... Kanagi, Momoko, and Mitama can't grasp how powerful this presence is - perhaps even more powerful than Eve. Mitama wonders if they can overcome it...Momoko, scowling, says she feels an immense crushing gravity all around her.

We get a flash of the Mirror Witch's true form (https://i.imgur.com/HtYcOq7.jpg), and the screen turns bright red again. Yachiyo and Tsuruno are buffeted by its powers, finding themselves barely able to stand, but still not knowing what hit them. Touka remarks that, well, this is a problem. It seems like they, Iroha, and Ui are the only ones who can move, so they might have to fight it out alone...but Sana protests, saying that's not an option! Felicia seconds her, her grimace growing increasingly determined - if Iroha and the Mirror Witch are evenly matched, then the rest of them can be the ones to tip the scales! Sana says that's right, so they have to get up and fight - so Felicia and Sana take up arms!

Tsuruno watches FeliSana go, and that enervates herself, too - if she just sits around, she'll lose her reputation as the Mightiest! Mifuyu urges Yachiyo to get up, too - being among the oldest magical girls, they have to lead the way for the rest! She calls to Iroha, saying it's time - they'll all attack her together!

This fight here is a scripted match, though - you can barely do anything to the Mirrors Witch; it's set for three turns, and the Witch doesn't fight back...

We cut to Nanaka gritting her teeth; how pathetic that even with the collective might of the megucas gathered, they can't put a scratch on the Witch...Rika, standing with Ren, remarks it's like there's an invisible wall. Shizuku wishes all the scattered magical girls could gather together...

The Mirror Witch glows ominously again; we jump to Team Mikazuki, where another unseen attack blows Sana and Felicia aside. Yachiyo and Tsuruno continue the fight, and it seems like Yuna manages to catch Felicia, who dryly remarks that Felicia seems to be struggling, and Felicia crabs back at her for being so slow. Yuna says there was no avoiding it; they were out of range until now. Juri, meanwhile, is more pumped up than ever, wondering how the Mirror Witch can tank all these attacks. Ao says this is no time for games - it's as though the Mirror Witch is disconnecting her body from all the attacks. Hikaru says it's like both the Mirror Witches attacks and defenses are imperceptible - and a total pain.

Meanwhile, it looks like Sana was caught by Sunao, who apologizes for taking so long to show up. Alas, even after consulting with Koichi Todoroki, Charu can't figure out how to deal with this Witch...though Shizuka remarks it's not as though an ordinary detective could grasp a monstrous Devil. Still, more pressingly, Shizuka feels like she's slowly being whittled away... That seems to spark an idea in Charu - perhaps there's some kind of secret weapon the Witch is using...

Back to YachiTsuru, Yachiyo and Tsuruno got too risky with an attack and paid for it by eating face - and Himena scolds them for looking so lame. Shigure tells Himena to keep it down, noting that despite how bad the attack seemed, Yachiyo doesn't seem injured... To Hagumu, it furthers the theory that there's a secret weapon in play. Miyuri says you don't know what's going to happen until you jump in, and San seems to connect the dots - just as the Folklore girls do, too: mirrors allow one to manipulate light and what can be perceived...which, given the domain, must be the nature of the Witch's power here.

Iroha, being connected to everyone, feels her powers decreasing bit by bit - at this rate, they're attacks will diminish to nothing, and they'll fail! :emiristressed: Ui asks if Iroha can perceive what's going on somehow, and Iroha can only deduce that it's magic for sure...and gets an idea. She asks for Touka to try converting the magic to something else - even if it's just a little, it'll still affect the nature of this power assaulting them and shielding the witch. If they can make it visible or detectable in some way, they can turn the tables! With that, Touka activates her magic - shattered glass flies out all around the Witch! And of course, Touka just has to shout "YEEEAAAH! I'm the best!" when she cracks it.

Episode 5:

Summary by bigscarythings
The megucas can now see the Mirror Witch's powers manifested in these shards of glass. Now that they're all aware of the trick, they can counter it; Mifuyu and the Amanes hold one line, while KanaMitaMomo and KaeRena run to regroup with Iroha. Poor Kaede is intimidated, but Rena takes her hand - though Kaede wonders if it's even possible to win, Rena says it's not a matter of "can," but that they must fight back. And hey, where did Kaede's gung ho "we ride or die into hell together" attitude go...?

Iroha announces to everyone that they can now see the Mirror Witch's attack and defensive glass barrier, and warns people to avoid the attacks or counter them with their own (aka tap the shards on the screen when they appear). If they can destroy all the cursed glass shards, then the barrier will go down, too - and with that, the true battle begins!

In the node, Iroha warns again that while they may perceive cracks in the space around them, don't be disturbed by them - just keep attacking! While Ao remarks it's like the Witch is trying to shave down their morale, Kanagi urges her to fight - so many lives across generations have been sacrificed for this opportunity, and it mustn't go to waste. Mitama refuses to let this impending doom come onto them. Ui, Touka, and Nemu work to convert energy from the shards to refuel the magical girls around them, though Touka warns they can't fix their spirits if they lose heart. And the faction leaders all rally to fight - Yuna uses her magic to redirect enemy attacks, while Shizuka musters up the Tokimes to go beyond their limits; Himena tells her crew to keep the good vibes going, and Rabi says the Witch doesn't deserve to live. Mikage pipes in, saying they'll all work together, and Nayuta agrees - they've come this far, and they will not back down now!

The first wave down, the girls shatter the Witch's barrier. Promised Blood's mooks are able to rally together, having broken off the Witch's influence, as are the NM grunts, too. Kanagi musters up the Apartment Trio, who are ready for a repeat of their feat against Eve, connecting everyone's hearts! Just as Iroha gains heart, however, she's shocked by the true form of the Mirror Witch beginning to fully reveal herself - a jet-black form born from curses, ever-growing, gathering constant energy from time across time...the final boss is the very manifestation of curses and despair. But these girls can see true hope in the darkest pits of night, and Iroha is determined to overcome this foe. Iroha tells everyone that they'll focus on gathering the Witch's power from here and beyond, in this world and in others, to enable them to overcome this Witch. Until then, she needs everyone to help fend off the Witch!

Kagome confides to Aru that she's very nervous about all this...she doesn't know if they can do this, and all this bluster is just desperation...but what's left but to try and seize hope? Meanwhile, Yachiyo orders the KMU girls to split up and help the other groups - they'll rally together to take down the last head. Sana assists the Tokime Clan, who are gung ho and ready to tackle the left arm. KMR goes for Promised Blood; Juri cracks that she thought Kanagi would do so - which was the plan, Momoko admits, except Mitama and Kanagi decided to help Mikage instead! Ranka barks at Rena to keep up, and Kaede is about to admonish them to behave...but realizes they're smiling at each other?

Shizuku moves in to help NM - she's lost a loved one, too, and was a former Feather herself. Himena says if they're so alike, then maybe they'll get along after all - though San tells Himena to focus on their target, the left leg, prompting Himena to grumble about how strict San is. Rika points out it's time to get serious, though, and in an act of gyaru solidarity, she says she and Ren will be teaming up with NM for now, too - "please take care of us for now!"

Over with team Folklore, Rabi yells that Nayuta is running the wrong way, and Mikage teases her for not being able to tell right from left. From afar, Asahi says she's not so sure how much stronger they are even with their newfound backup...but Urara spots more people joining them - Kanagi and Mitama are at their service! Mitama says she can't go leaving Mikage unsupervised, after all.

Tsuruno and Felicia move in to fight one Witch, but are thrown off when an offshoot Witch rises up to defend the original! With that, Touka decides it's time to crack open their secret weapon: Kagome's Magia Record! With everyone's interviews and their gathered magic, Nemu said it was a backup in case she wouldn't be able to convert everyone to Uwasas - it sounds like she would've used the book to spawn new incarnations of the megucas instead - but instead, it'll be a very useful weapon! Aru tells Kagome to look, see, she really has been useful! Kagome hands off the book to return everyone's infused powers, in hopes it'll strengthen the connection between them and Iroha.

One by one, we flash across all sorts of interviews, particularly of the "what do you want to do in the future" parts - Hikaru wanting to spend her school days with Yuna, growing up to support the latter; Ao wanting to make a professional gaming group with friends; Juri (pre-Raising Aozona) seeing the world in a new light and wanting to save Ao before she goes out; Yuna thinking that she'd be better off dying quietly after entrusting Futatsugi to Hikaru and Ao...

As PB fights and struggles against their Witch, they're grateful for getting their magic restored - as the memories of everyone's interviews are revealed to them all. Yuna remarks that Hikaru really wanted to be her right hand...so couldn't she have at least gotten a job in the Kimochiverse? Hikaru's like don't look at me, look at you and Juri - you guys were ready to die! Juri does say she'd never have learned to temper her temper without the fourteen Kimochiverse years - but now, her plan for the future is...to do whatever the hell she wants. Ranka gets a bad feeling about those words, but hey, whatever works! Yuna, too, has found new (non-crimson) resolve - she'll shed no more tears, and will live on and do everything she can for her city (Ao's like "you were crying...?") Hikaru is relieved that those fourteen years have turned things around; Ao remarks something like "okay, so now we can focus on you being a NEET for fourteen years?" and Hikaru tells her to let sleeping dogs lie. Yuna chuckles, but focuses on the battle at hand - time to focus on their side of the battle, and entrust the rest to Iroha…

Next up, we get the Tokime interviews: Sunao wanting to enjoy the brightness of her adolescence to burn away the shadows of her past; Charu's faith in the Tokime Clan's future no matter what; Shizuka's hope to see and learn about the world beyond her borders, and take her friends to a theme park...

Their battle is going better than expected - Charu nails her Magia, and Ryoko thinks they'll be able to manage all this despite the odds. Chika says if they win this and get the APS running, they can all head to the theme park together! Shizuka shrivels up over how everyone else has these serious dreams, and Shizuka just wants to goof off and have fun, but Ryouko points out that Charu's dream of becoming a shogun is pretty goofy itself. Charu complains like "I can't believe Kagome wrote that it was a joke aaaaaaahhhhhhh" but Sunao says it's a better dream than her melancholy one. Charu remarks that Sunao's making her interview much heavier than it truly is, and Shizuka tells her that while they won't stop her from carrying the sins of the past, she can at least share her burden with the others as they walk towards the future together. Sunao thanks Shizuka. This is where the Clan's new future begins - and Charu shouts for Iroha to give it all she's got!

Now for the NM side - Miyuri wants to overcome her anxiety and handle life and competition with ease and independence; San wants to go to university and work in government to revitalize her town, and make it one of the most famous in the country; Shigure wants people to stop making fun of her for being a loner, while Hagumu wants to not be teased, either, and be able to talk with people in a better light. And Himena wants it all - Shigure, Hagumu, San, Miyuri, Mitsune, the Feathers, she wants a life with everyone!

In the fight, Shigure and Hagumu have been literally killing it - Hagumu's power coupled with Shigure's ranged attacks are perfect in this domain! San orders the Feather mooks to help lock down the enemy, just as the interview memories come flooding in - Himena says when she heard Shigure's desires, she was like, "oh man, what a pitably sweet hamster..." Shigure's like "are you making fun of me?" but Hagumu says she understands entirely. But Himena gushes over Hagumu's dreams, too (I think it was to do fashion design for her friends or something? have to check the interview), and she's off in la-la land until San orders her back to earth. Hagumu says yeah, they can't get swept up in this until they win! Still, Himena tries talking to Miyuri about her dream, but Miyuri's so flustered that she's dissociated into Killing Mode - to the point even San can't keep her in check! The girls freak out over this; it sounds like Shigure is running off to grab Miyuri and hold her in place while San tries snapping Miyuri out of it, shouting something like, "I'll become the god of the fire festival, and you're going to follow me, remember?!" Himena remarks ah, so the instructor is still gunning to be god after all…

Time for Folklore! In her interview, Asahi was very dour about her prospects, wanting to retire from people and live as one with nature while cherishing the memories of her friends - but expecting everything to fall to pieces instead. Sasha wondered if perhaps it would be right to publicize magical girls, though she shouldn't ask for more after having her wish granted; Urara wants to master skills outside of her busker stuff, and hopes to make up with Kurara and work with her again someday; Mikage wanted her and Mitama to leave Kamihama and run a candy store with all sorts of offerings for Nayuta, Rabi, and other candy lovers; Nayuta wanted to keep being together with Rabi; and finally, Rabi had said that, having given up on everything, she could have just done nothing...and yet she's tending to her own home garden. And that alone is giving her an answer for what she wants in the future...

Their battle goes well enough, with Asahi and Sasha disabling this limb of the Witch - they worry for Nayuta, though, thinking her disruption in movement was because of the Witch....but no, Rabi says, it was because of the interviews being broadcast to everyone's minds. Rabi doesn't get it; Nayuta isn't one to hide things, so there's no need to be flustered, but Nayuta as points out, does she usually tell Rabi directly that she wants to be with her from now on? Mikage points out that Nayuta's response in the interview felt more like she wanted to become involved with Rabi. Rabi chides Mikage not to dig a deeper grave, but alas, it's too late; Nayuta's already even more embarrassed!

The other Folklore girls pile onto Rabi, though, to keep things fair - didn't Rabi convey the exact same idea? That in saying her home garden was the answer - that very same garden at Nayuta's house - she was implying she wanted to keep staying with Nayuta? Rabi clams up, while Sasha, with a giggle, reminds Rabi to not be so embarrassed. Rabi tries to insist that what she really meant was that she wanted a future with Nayuta AND the professor...but her friends remain very unconvinced.

Urara asks if Asahi still feels the way she did during her interview, and Asahi says as much - Folklore, the people of Yukuni City, and the clan are enough for Asahi; she doesn't want further involvement with the world beyond that. Urara suggests that Asahi join her for a street performance to get her back in the public sphere again, but Asahi tells her that's not what she meant by being involved with people. Meanwhile, Mitama and Kanagi witness this, with Mitama observing how easily Mikage gels with everyone else. Kanagi remarks Mikage is very likable and inherently charming. With that, Kanagi supposes they can leave the rest to Iroha, though Mitama says they ought to rejoin the other KMU girls for the final charge later.

With that, all the side battles are complete - the limbs are locked down and it's time for the piece de resistance! Tsuruno says it's their time to help wear down the witch until Iroha can unleash the final blow; Felicia remarks it's a classic move, just like something out of Decagon Ball! Mifuyu, Hinano, and the other KMU girls rejoin Mikazuki, too, now that their support work is over - with old Mikazuki together, it feels like old times. Hinano says they’ve all been fighting together for years now - and feels that if they can overcome this witch, all of the sacrifices made and losses endured will have mattered. Kanagi says if they can defeat this Witch, maybe something will change. Yachiyo corrects her, no - it's not that "something" will change, but that they will take matters into their hands, and be the agents of their future instead.

We get a boatload of KMU's interviews - Momoko wants to go drinking with Kaede and Rena when they grow up; Kaede wants a farm for her and her friends; Rena wants all of them to grow up together; Mifuyu basically wants to keep going; Kanagi wants a future with harmony between the East and West; Mitama wants a world where Mikage can be happy; Sana wants to be a picture book writer; Felicia wants to be a cow rancher; Tsuruno wants to be the defender of everyone's happiness; and finally, Yahcchiyo wants to stay at Mikazuki with everyone... With that, the energy Iroha needs is finished charging and converting! But at the last moment, they sense the Mirror Witch about to use the sneak attack that killed Ui - and the way things are, Iroha is in the Witch's direct path...

Except the attack doesn't connect. Iroha and the hospital girls realize...they're in Alina's Labyrinth...? Touka curses the situation, thinking they made it so close, and now even Alina's throwing another wrench in their plans - but no, Karin cries! Alina did this to save you! The dynamic duo appears, and Touka can't believe it's true, but Alina says as much - the Fool Girl is right. Alina found her answer to the question of the end of humanity, of life and death - that true art shines not in death itself, but in our resistance to it. So Alina wants Iroha to live on and fight back, to see what Iroha will do with her future - so she'll keep Iroha shielded until it's time for the final attack. Iroha in turn says she looks forward to seeing what art Alina will make from now on. While Nemu and Touka seem skeptical of Alina, they ultimately figure if she found her answer, it's all for the better - just as long as she doesn't cause mayhem here. And as Ui points out, they've been given an opportunity - it's on them to make the most of it.

So it's time for them to destroy this cure. Iroha tries to tell the Witch - "You don't have to hang onto all these curses anymore... I'm sorry..."

Thank you so much for the typo fixes, all of you

As the battle begins, though, Iroha finds herself in an odd space (a mountainous lake, somewhat like the abandoned Ferris Wheel in Daito, but Iroha's gigantic wings keep blocking by view so I can't confirm) with a girl standing before her - Mikoto, we recognize, who explains herself to be the Witch's human personality. Melancholy, she asks why Iroha is intervening in her mission; Iroha explains it's to save magical girls and give them all a future. Mikoto shakes her head at this - magical girls inherently cannot find happiness. They'd all be better off dead. Mikoto points out the East-West schism, but Iroha says even that will change, one small step at a time. Even our families, too, and the world can change over time... Mikoto gets furious hearing this and lashes out with a flash of the screen, hurting Iroha.

Touka doesn't like this situation - having already converted and used so much energy, they can't try that again for a good long while, but the Witch is still active. Nemu fears they played their hand too early - perhaps proven when the Witch starts acting up again. But then they feel the more presencepresences of more magical girls. Kagome inquires with Rii-chan, who seems to explain that as Iroha was gathering energy, Rii-chan went to some other mirror portals and called in some favors...and sure enough, the cavalry is here - the spinoff girls and more megucas have arrived! (https://jp.rika.ren/magica/resource/scenario/img/part2_chapter12/103304_puella_gather.jpg)

Touka and Nemu panic because on one hand, this is a paradox for the ages, but on the other hand, they've got no other chance than this! Kagome apologizes on Rii-chan's behalf for potentially threatening the logic of the universe, but Iroha says it's absolutely necessary right now, and asks Kagome to transmit the bad timeline memories to them, too. Ui is in awe that this is a true battle for the universe, with megucas across time and space here to help. Touka figures that once this battle is over, they'll hurry everyone home and shatter the mirror portals after them, a la the Witches Paradox stories - that way, the universe won't implode!

As the fight goes on, Iroha affirms her resolveresolves to Mikoto - no matter what Mikoto tries, everyone will fight back with all their might. Mikoto simply says she'll match all their hope with equivalent despair, and demonstrates such with a mob of Familiars. For every measure of hope, there is despair...

Even so, KMR pop in, saying they'll and everyone else will help stop the familiars, affirming their teamwork and resolve. Mikoto gets snippy again, targeting Iroha for another attack, but finds herself...utterly ineffective. Alina casually slides in to explain she's with Iroha now; Mikoto accuses Alina of believing in happily ever afters, but Alina says that's very much not so - but rather, watching lives frantically burn to nothing is the most beautiful art to behold. She turns to Touka and Nemu and tells them to take it from here; Touka grumbles that didn't need to be ordered by Alina. Touka checks that Ui's been gathering energy alright, and Ui says yep - she's been drawing on the hopes of the meguca army that rode in. She'll do this as many times as it takes! Frustrated, Mikoto asks them just why they so fervently believe in hope. For the trio, it's simple: it's because of Iroha. Iroha, who tries to fulfill everyone's dreams and ideals, no matter how impossible it seems...

In the last stage of the fight, Mikoto is at the end of her rope! She can't understand - in all her observations of history, everything ended in despair! But they're going to make it end in hope this time, Shizuka and the faction leaders say. Mikoto doesn't get how. Momoko says it's because of their bonds, and Mitama adds that these circumstances are different from everything that came before - everyone teamed up to make this happen, and here they are, thanks to Iroha leading the way. But Iroha says it's not just her hope - it's everyone's, as the product of them all working together to make their hopes come about. Suffering is a given, but experience has shown her that there is always hope that will arise from it - and so comes their final assault…

After that final push, the battle is over at last. Both sides are exhausted, panting and wheezing. Iroha is ready to end this now...but Mikoto flares up with newfound rage, her tone shifting, saying many things, but essentially that their efforts to publicize magical girls will crash and burn; that even if they do succeed, they'll all be used and pressured and tread upon, that humans will NOT be kind to them. She's seen that proven again and again - she won't let some naive teenager tell her otherwise!

Mikoto's shift startles Iroha, and she asks...is she really speaking to Mikoto right now? Mikoto's rage dies in an instant, and she's terribly thrown off by this, at first saying she is Mikoto Sena, and then...she gets very confused, her face wrenching and eyes widening as she tries to suss things out. Iroha prods some more, and the being before her turns to shadow, and says...before she was Mikoto, she was...the daughter of a fallen nobleman, a poor town girl, a starving child... With every line, her form warps and distorts into various shapes.

The shadow warps back into Mikoto, and Iroha asks once more who the "real her from long ago" is. The shadow warps one more time, and settles into the form of Chizuru (historical ninja bandit girl from Chapter 9/10/the Alina-Mikoto-Karin flashbacks). Before the Mirrors Witch was Mikoto, she was a girl who despaired from running out of magic, who couldn't save Tsuyu from becoming a Witch, couldn't slay the "symbol witch" (象徴 - possibly maybe the Symbol Witch of the familiars who we've been fighting in Kamihama all this time, referred to as 魔女の手下?) - the very memory of it pains Chizuru, and she grows angry. The screen flashes purple a few times, and we see Chizuru and Mikoto debating Iroha (https://jp.rika.ren/magica/resource/scenario/img/part2_chapter12/103304_phantom_puella.jpg). Chizuru, hand on Iroha's wing, says the Mirror Witch has proven, in her observations of history, that all things return to sorrow, be they centuries ago to the present day. Chizuru is sick of despair, saying that all this only prolongs their suffering - she's sick of watching people suffer nonstop, and doesn'tdoesn't want them to hurt anymore... Mikoto says for all magical girls, all things end in only sorrow... (Basically, at this point, the Mirror Witch isn't just Mikoto, and Mikoto is just the figurehead - the Witch itself is the collective despair of all magical girls who have fallen throughout history)

Iroha hears all this, and to the girl in front of her, decides to anchor things back in place: the girl she is speaking with is Mikoto Sena, a kind girl by nature who looked too long and hard at the darkness behind her. She's taken on the pain of Chizuru and other girls she's witnessed as if it were her own - but she can't let it all blind her. For every curse and piece of despair, no matter how infinite they may be, Iroha will replace the m with hope. Mikoto says if Iroha is telling her to just ignore all the despair, and Iroha says no - to not ignore or deny them, but to face them, accept them, and do something about them. In the years all these girls have been active as magical girls, they've created this much potential for hope - given hundreds of years, they can change everything.

There's no getting through to Iroha, or Iroha through to them. So Chizuru and Mikoto tell Iroha if that's what she believes, then - show them. Show them she can change everything. Take Mikoto's power. Save Tsuyu. Save the world. See what happens. Iroha takes on Mikoto's power and faces crushing, overwhelming despair - she struggles with it, all the sorrows and horrors of magical girls, all this pain Mikoto has been bearing all alone…

But Iroha will take it anyway. In a mirror in front of Iroha, scenes play out of various scenes of history, with Iroha's face turning from pained to determined. She declares she will show all these fallen girls the future. First things first, though, she has to save everyone here. She thinks to the nightmares she saw of the magical girls in the bad timeline - how people put fear ahead of kindness; that, for however great magical girls are, people will still see the weak as worthless nevertheless; that even if they try to show their suffering to everyone, megucas will only getting wrath and fearmongering in return; that maybe things are better off without changing a thing - Iroha doesn't want these disasters to come to pass. To do so, one must first accept all the problems of the past and how they lead to today, to break the cycle of hurt people hurting people.

Iroha builds herself up, and then - with a gasp, a mirror shows her some...peculiar visions. And Iroha realizes - she dies in every single timeline. She doesn't become a magical girl, and therefore, the Hospital Trio don't survive to contract, either. In all timelines, except one - thanks to a certain pebble she happened to kick.

So Iroha is fated to die in all timelines except this. By sheer fluke, she was able to live just this once. Iroha's power isn't healing - it's restoration. Like art restoration; returning things to as they were before - like Ui, who she made healthy again. Like Mifuyu, whose soul gem went back to how it was before it cracked. Iroha's very existence is a miracle. Therefore...she's certain she can make another one happen.

The Mirror Labyrinth abruptly vanishes, and things return to reality (it is the Daito lake!). The mirrors are gone, along with the familiars, the witch, and, of course, their newfound army. But it wasn't like the enemies were dead, but...vanished. Or perhaps absorbed. Iroha confirms such - she now contains the Endless Mirrors and everything within. Yuna is boggled - did Iroha befriend the Witch, too?! (insert Nanoha joke of your choice here) Iroha says no, she's just gotten the first step done - Mikoto has chosen to lay down her arms so Iroha can show her a miracle. Iroha's already got one in mind: she'll convert all the Uwagucas here back to their magical girl forms. Himena goes wide-eyed, saying that's not necessary; like, they all seem alive enough! But Nemu says there's a limit to those forms - Sakurako, for example, takes tons of energy to maintain her body, which pushes things even with the energy from the Kimochi Stones (ex. they have a perpetual motion machine, but that doesn't mean it instantly produces all the energy they need to sustain all these Uwasa forms, especially without the Mirror Labyrinth energy workaround). Plus, you know, it's hard to reveal the truth of magical girls to the world when hardly any of them are magical girls anymore. But how will Iroha change them back?

Simple: Iroha's using her powers of rewinding/restoration. Yachiyo is thrown off; Iroha's power was healing, right? But Iroaha explains the situation; her power is rewinding/restoration. It explains everything, they realize - Mifuyu's soul gem, Kagome's leaf going back in time just when they needed it - to the point where Iroha's power seems able to inherently resolve paradoxes, making it as though the leaf was naturally always present in the timeline.

Before everyone gets too excited, though, Tsuruno calls Iroha out: what will become of her? Considering how much of a toll doppels take on girls, she's very doubtful that even Iroha can handle basically respawning magical girls on this scale, especially with their very concept of existence having been altered. Touka seconds this concern, but Iroha will forge ahead nonetheless. Touka objects even more - Iroha's soul will not survive this feat. Even with the APS, even with all this magic power, Iroha's existence is already faltering, given what's she's taken upon herself - one last push, and she's gone. But all the same...the hospital trio knows: she's still doing it, isn't she?

Felicia is torn up, angry and devastated - what about Mikazuki being together from now on?! Iroha apologizes profusely, saying this one sadness needs to happen to bring a miracle to them all... But now it's Hikaru's turn to protest - Iroha can't just abandon her team like this! Does she not realize what becomes of a team without its leader? Shizuka counters their protests, though, saying if they don't let this happen, the Mirror Witch will go back to what she was doing. There are so many miracles that are hard to accept - but they must do so anyway for this one.

Iroha reflects that when she died in the previous timeline, everyone had entrusted their hopes to her. She aims to fulfill that trust. Even if she vanishes, she asks them all not to worry - this miracle will heal the Mirror Witch, and give them the power to achieve the future they have sought all along. And so she begins, the scene shifting into the jeweled Kimochi background from when she was having her heart-to-heart with Rabi in Chapter 11.

Appropriately, we start with Rabi, who's not too happy about this herself - having finally opened her heart to hope and other people, only for Iroha to give all that up. But...Rabi manages a smile, and says as long as she remembers Iroha, Iroha will continue to exist. Perhaps the day will come that they can return Iroha to them. With that, we cut to the Folklore girls - Mii and Nayuta included. The screen flashes, and they're back to normal.

Next up is Himena, who instantly opens with how shit of a person Iroha is - coaxing everyone in, only to abandon them. But still, she tells Iroha that, wherever she goes next, to travel around as she pleases - "this cutie'll do as I please with Neo-Magius while you're gone." Iroha asks her to take care of everyone. And with that, the NM girls are repaired, too.

Shizuka remarks she didn't really get what was meant by all the babble of "Iroha's very concept of existence is fraying", but she gets the idea - Iroha will leave them - and she's upset at Iroha, too...many people will be upset that Iroha is gone. But even - she'll protect them all in Iroha's stead until her return. And she's determined to be as beloved as Iroha is now - she'll show Iroha just that when she returns. Thus the Tokimes are back to their Divinerly selves.

Yuna, now, says Hikaru took the words from her mouth. But she notes that everyone around her is pissed or devastated over Iroha's choice - so Yuna can at least make it up by seeing her off with a smile. Iroha doesn't think she deserves it, but Yuna says she does - because Iroha's going to save everyone. That deserves something of a smile. But before she lets her go - she tells Iroha she'll be waiting for her to come back, as her friends are fixed, too.

Mitama and Kanagi are next. They tried destroying the city, and now Iroha will lose herself to save it. It'll be very hard to fill in the gap Iroha will leave behind. But there will be other things Iroha leaves behind - and Kanagi says they'll make the best of all that remains. ...After they take care of Mikazuki. Kanagi tries leaving that with a smile, but in the end, she can't hold it - and their forms are fixed, too.

Then there is Mifuyu and the Amanes - Mifuyu has been saved by Iroha twice now. And even after being saved, Tsukasa is unsure what they'll do next... Tsukuyo, though, mentions they can at least figure out that future together. There's an East-West student conference, for one... Still, Mifuyu says she'll ensure that when Iroha returns, it'll be a place where magical girls, who can grow into womento women, can find their happy endings. Iroha seems to try to respond, smiling, but only silence comes out - and with that, she disappears all too soon.

KMR seems to have trying to talk to her next, but can't find her - Rena screams out for Iroha, saying she's worried, okay, that if Iroha's gone, Rena won't have anymore friends to talk to! ...But nothing. Kaede thinks back to how she was the very first person Iroha had talked to in Kamihama...and now...she can't finish her sentence, breaking down in tears, so Momoko finishes it for her: Iroha can't talk to anyone anymore. Their forms are fixed.

Felicia takes all this badly, too - they didn't even get to say goodbye. Yachiyo is silent, and Tsuruno asks Yachiyo to say something...and Yachiyo says she'll start looking for Iroha tomorrow. Tsuruno says that's not fair - she's coming, too! Sana as well. Yachiyo shouts to the air that Mikazuki will always be Iroha's home, and they'll always be waiting for her, no matter where she goes - and if she doesn't come back by herself, they'll all find her instead! And with that...the rest of the magical girls are back to normal, and the miracle is complete.

Far away from it all, up among the stars, Iroha, Mokyu, and the Hospital Trio look down upon their friends. Iroha had wanted this all to end with the megucas being happy, but...well, as Nemu points out, everything has its limits; so it looks like this is as good as it gets. Though she chuckles to herself... Ui asks what's gotten Nemu so happy, and she explains it's simple - it's been so long since the four of them have been able to talk like this. And there's the circumstances, too - how what started in the cramped confines of a hospital room ends up among the stars, in the limitless reaches of the universe. With all the girls back to being megucas again, it's time for Iroha's next feat: to spread the APS to encompass Earthearth. The Trio all cheer to that, and get to business!

As they all work together, over a white narration background, Iroha thinks - Mikoto and everyone within seems to have understood what she's done, and little by little, the curses are starting to fade to nothing. It will take many more people being saved in order to counter all the despair that's befallen magical girls in history...and that's fine. Change doesn't have to be instant - it comes gradually, in slow but sure steps, guiding them to a world where everyone is free to dream of the future to come...

Episode 6:

Summary by bigscarythings
Kagome says it's been sometime since the final battle, and yet more since the APS spread throughout the world. Iroha, Ui, Touka, and Nemu are all still gone, with only megucas remembering them clearly - muggles are described to remember them "as a blur," as though they were fictional characters. Even so, things are finally returning to normal, and Kagome has been going around interviewing the megucas.

First things first, Kagome visits Sakae to speak with Karin, now that Alina has disappeared. We learn that Karin has been devoted to drawing every day at school, even on holidays - Karin insists she must catch up with Alina one day, even though she doesn't know where Alina has gone. In a flashback, we see their parting - Alina explains she's traveling abroad, having learned that true art shines in our struggle against death. Karin doesn't get why this entails Alina quitting school; Alina explains that despite all the grief she's caused, things ultimately ended on hope, so Alina needs to study abroad to keep her promise to Karin. Karin protests, saying this is all too sudden, and by "promise," is Alina referring to the Conversion Plan? Alina does not answer, simply saying she'll make art in a world where life shines brilliantly; she's already getting goosebumps just thinking about it...!

Back in the present, Karin explains she'd gotten her passport ready and was determined to go after Alina, but mysteriously, her passport went missing... Just when she says that, though, she gets a text from Alina, saying she's arrived at her current destination. If Alina's art will be a strong drug for the world, then she supposes Karin's comics might be the neutralizer. The world will be just fine with Gray, so Karin needs to hurry up, Alina will wait for years, come quick! Karin is confused by it, but attached to the message is Alina's new piece - a massive LED light above a battleground in a forest.

In her narration, Kagome remarks she's wanted to interview Alina the most, for all of her enigmas, but she never got the chance. Next, she explains that Folklore of Zero has disbanded, now just a regular group of four friends. Each has taken refuge with the faction of their choice. First, Kagome describes her visit to the Nayufam, where Rabi still works, and the professor has settled back home. Rabi asks how Kagome's book is going; Kagome says she's not finished putting it together, but has the material ready for it - it's not like a novel or essay, so it's difficult to summarize it all (you tell me, Kagome!). Tasuke figures that means Kagome is here for advice on how to assemble the work. Here, Nayuta explains that Tasuke has forgotten some stories about Iroha, too, which is why she invited Kagome to visit.

Right on cue, Mikage caterwauls for Nayuta at the house's front door and barges right inside. Mikage excitedly asks if Kagome and Tasuke are done with the book, and asks when they're going to publicize magical girls!! Nayuta scolds Mikage to use her indoor voice, and wonders how Mikage was able to let herself right in; Rabi realizes she must've forgotten to lock the door after fetching the newspaper. Nayuta remarks that it's very unusual for Rabi, and Rabi figures she must be losing her diligence in her role as the head of the house...which Nayuta nods along to at first, then squawks, "Wait, THAT'S what's going on?!"

Still, Tasuke explains to Mikage that they have a lot of revision to do before the book's ready to be published. And even that book alone won't be able to tell the stories of all megucas - so they need to learn from what they've seen and take things one step at a time, especially because of how resistant people are to having their ideas and beliefs challenged. Rabi figures it'd be better if they take an incremental approach to revealing magical girls, like how complex subjects have introductory books. Tasuke says this process won't be complete in even ten or twenty years from now. But at least now, they have the time to do so.

Kagome says they talked more about how to assemble the book and reveal the truths of megucas; it's a particularly sensitive topic, because they know people will be in denial that their ways of interaction and being is the direct cause of why magical girls make their contracts. And that's what segues into the Neo-Magius section. She says they've regained their composure and have returned to their quotidian lives, but on the day Kagome visits them, things are unusually hectic. In the ruins of the Kamihama Civic Center, San is ordering the feathers to find and destroy any trace of NM's presence, while Miyuri dies a little over all the stacks of her own doujins she's manged to find... Basically, in Kanagi and Mitama's wrath, the ceiling of the civic center collapsed, just as construction was about to resume. NM has decided to take responsibility for what happened and are cleaning up everyone's tracks.

Despite all the labor, though, everyone seems chipper. Himena explains she and Hiko have designed a special course in boosting self-esteem, and it's already worked wonders - she's been helping her friends find something to be proud of in themselves. Hagumu, for example, has had people started to compliment her for her clothes and acting, and it's made her days a little brighter. Miyuri complains that no one's complimented herself on her legs, as she starts taking footage of San's legs by instinct...San scolds her to cut it out for now. Meanwhile, Sasha remarks she feels a bit like a criminal, given what they're doing here, but still, she's glad that she, Himena, and the others are all spending time together like this. Himena agrees, and remembers that she wanted to ask Sasha to help out with their next self-esteem class; Sasha apologizes, saying she'll be in Yukuni that day with her Folklore friends. Himena pouts, asking who's more important, her or Folklore...? Sasha says that's not a very nice question to ask, but Himena insists on an answer!

We do not see it, as Kagome returns to her narration - it seems NM has been keeping their supremacy in check by addressing their own issues with self-affirmation. That leads into the Tokime Clan, who have been discussing their futures together. Kagome's most recent visit saw the Tokimes at their most buoyant - upon arriving, the room was noisy with chatter and shouts, with Ryouko "explaining" roller coaster rides to Shizuka ("When you sit down on the ride, a metal weight slams into you, keeping you in place while the iron snake starts to move... Then, just when you reach the peak of the mountain...you flip upside-down!") Kagome realizes they're all planning a trip to Minagi Land before their return to the Tokime Village. Charu's got her eye on a Kouichi Todoroki-themed escape room event at the park, while Sunao's trying to carefully choose what treats to indulge herself in...Shizuka says Sunao won't have to plan if she just buys everything, to which Sunao protests.

Meawnwhile, Asahi is already practicing for the prize shooting booths with a replica gun. Chika explains it's a character toy that she'll be using as an indicator stick as a nature guide, thinking kids would get a kick out of it. Asahi remarks that Chika's already doing a good job. With all the enthusiasm, Kagome wonders if they're going to the park today, but no - Shizuka says it's just a rehearsal for tomorrow! Kagome marvels at their eagerness.

Kagome wonders if this trip will be what finally allows the barriers between the main and branch families to break down. As the Tokimes plan to return to their village, Kagome moves onto Promised Blood, who have been making trips to Kamihama now and then. She expected they wouldn't ever visit again after the war, but quite the contrary, they seem to have formed a sense of camaraderie with the Kamihama girls. On this occasion, though, PB doesn't come to visit KMU, but for a different cause... Meeting in an arcade, Kagome notes that Yuna seems somehow more and less exhausted than ever... She and Hikaru explain that whenever they hang out with Juri, they get into some kind of trouble. Juri grins, saying hey, at least they don't get bored that way!

At the arcade, Juri swiftly breaks the punching machine - alas, they haven't invented magical girl-friendly games yet, Hikaru laments...but Ao and Ranka demonstrate there's still much more to do! She and Ranka do some game talk as they sit down to play in a game tournament; Ranka tells Ao not to screw up, and Ao says likewise - but adds that they can't go in expecting to lose, or that's what will happen; they gotta believe in their new strategy, tailored against their Kamihama rivals, and that they'll win! Ranka notes that Ao really has changed, and Ao says yeah - she's come to learn the difference between truly having courage and pretending not to be afraid.

Kagome marvels over the tournament, and asks the others what the prize will be; tickets and accomodations to the next level of the tournament, Yuna explains. Hikaru remarks it sounds like she wants all her PB friends to go, and says it's nice to have family trips together, isn't it? Ao's moms agree, and start cheering for their daughter in earnest - Yuna shouts, "You must win!" And by reflex, Ao shouts, "Yes, Mom! Gah...!" Ranka chuckles about how Ao still can't fix that habit.

As Kagome watched PB's antics, Kagome fully understood that the APS did more to save magical girls than just preventing witching out. She also reveals that PB had come to Kamihama City that day to say their farewells to Puella Care, too, which transitions us into the latter's segment, with Mitama and Kanagi present as well. Livia admits she's somewhat reluctant to leave, but even with the end of witching out, their services are still needed. Yozuru agrees, saying they still need to redeem themselves, then asks if Sudachi's said goodbye to Mikage, too. Mikage fumus yes, and Livia explains that Sudachi joked that since she and Mikage don't have many friends, their bond will remain as strong as ever, even when apart!

Livia asks if MitaKana are sure they ain't comin' along? Kanagi says as intriguing as becoming a bodyguard for Puella Care would be, she'll be staying in Kamihama, especially after all the work everyone put in to bring together the East and West. She and Mitama will be working to bolster the East-West Student Conference. Besides, Mitama, there are so many magical girls here that Mitama loves - she doesn't want to betray them by letting her emotions get the best of her. Livia points out yeah, Mitamaa has Momoko, Kanagi, and lots of East-side girls fond of her; she's not like the rest of the Puella Care hermits. At Mitama's questioning, Livia confirms she'll keep on keeping on as a Coordinator, but also working for the certain someone she wants to destroy...and demonstrates such with her iron grip on Kyubey. From the sound of it, Iroha's allowed Kyubey to remain present on earth because she truly wants to coexist with the Incubators. Livia says Iroha admires Kyubey's endeavors to keep the universe going, so Livia remarks she ought not to live for the universe, but for Kyubey... Kyubey remains silent, understanding this veiled threat, and it sounds likes he's given up on Kamihama as a lost cause.

As MitaKana prepare to leave, Livia wonders what will have changed the next time they meet. Mitama says who knows, maybe she'll be mayor, and Kanagi will be the chief of police! Livia chuckles, happy to hear it - she's never been so excited about what the future may entail.

With Puella Care having faced their pasts, they now look to the future - and Kagome understands again that Iroha didn't just save magical girls, but gave them new futures as well. Really, it seemed impossible that this day would come to pass, given the rage and despair that opposed Iroha's ambitions...but now megucas the world over have been liberated from their fates. Though Kagome and the others feel pang of loneliness at times, the best thing to do with the miracle they've been given is to smile. Kagome, specifically, is determined to respond to Iroha's thoughts and feelings by writing her book, giving it the title they all chose together.

Even so, as Mikazuki and KMR gather for a picnic...she remarks it's still sad. She wonders - is Iroha really still here with them...? Rena doesn't know, but she does feel a flow of magic all around them, with all sorts of impurities being gathered, and Kyubey checking on them. KMR figure that Iroha is probably just invisible, but still right next to them - doing her job of watching over magical girls the world over. Tsuruno remarks the feeling is particularly strong right near this tree - she points out how here, they can see all the impurities of girls who would have once Witched out now ascending into the skies.

Yachiyo is the one who noticed this particular spot is where the magic feels strongest, after visiting this place several times. Felicia teases Yachiyo that she's figured it out after coming here every week; Yachiyo points out that Felicia and the others have been doing just the same. Momoko says she gets it, though - somehow, this spot just feels so warm, soothing, and safe. Under this cherry blossom tree, they know for sure that Iroha and the Hospital Trio are still around. The Mikazuki girls say they feel like Iroha is right next to them, even...and Iroha says yes, she's looking right down at them! The girls all look up, though it seems like they still don't see Iroha and the trio sitting up in the branches. Yachiyo says they'll all be making regular trips here, starting with this picnic - and asks that Iroha joins them.

As much as Iroha wants to, it sounds like she can't make it today. It seems like Sakurako is still able to commune with Iroha and the trio, and has warned Iroha that Touka and Nemu are grumpy and need her help with something - they've gotten a massive boatload of records regarding magical girls, and need her help putting them in order! It sounds like TouNemu are still doing their part in helping spread the truth of magical girls - which is all the more work for Iroha! As Iroha reluctantly leaves, Yachiyo remarks she feels a magic presence pulling away; all Iroha can do is promise she'll join them next time they come. Yachiyo says aloud that she still misses Iroha.

Iroha says someday, she doesn't know when, her magical girl friends will all be collected, and they'll all be reunited again... Someday, somewhere, they'll all meet again... Yachiyo asks aloud where she can find Iroha... And Iroha answers: in the place where the records of all Magical Girls are gathered. And perhaps the Magia Record, the book of magical girls that will someday be published, will be the beacon that guides them there.

• 

And with that...

The End

Epilogue

Translation by Cheironyx
Sae: Got accepted into university via recommendation, and is aiming to become a lawyer. While hiding her true nature, she overcomes things through sheer guts, and is living happily with her family.

Maria: Accepted a proposal from her sweetheart. She was uneasy about being a magical girl, but in future there would be something sparkling on her left ring finger.

Meguru: Started a personal radio show as a hobby. The results allowed her to pass an AO entrance exam to a highly selective university. She has taken a step closer to becoming a commentator.

Moka: Her defenceless personality remains the same even after graduating from high school. But she is able to spend her time in peace thanks to the Moka-chan Circle.

Rui: Her Final Testament analysis website was highly rated and MacQueen invited her to join his circle. But she declined and continued to be a good fan.

Kushu: Became a hot topic after achieving top marks despite not showing up at school. She is using the power of her nighttime high potential to write children's books.

Yuuna: Alongside her schoolwork, she is helping out the family business and is already standing out in Kamihama's political and business circles. The mass media calls her the "young empress".

Yukika: After reaching adulthood, she can now play forbidden games. While her eyes are sparkling, she is desperately exercising her self-control.

Hotori: Acquired the role of female Red Ranger, a rarity in a Sentai series. The way she fights with a scared expression has won her popularity with young boys as well.

Rion: Not wanting to be parted from Hotori, she acquired a Sentai villain role. The way she abuses people with harsh words has won her popularity with young boys as well.

Mikura: She has calculated the location of Kamihama's lost bandit fortress, and continues to research history as a hobby. As a result, she is even getting research invitations from universities.

Temari: Demonstrates her gifted literary wit and intelligence through book reviews. After taking the stage at bookstore talk events, she has gained more opportunities to exchange words with authors.

Seira: Took on debt to complete a tokusatsu movie, which became a hot topic through word-of-mouth. She has paid back the money and is showing an ambition to launch a studio.

Hotaru: Entered university since she didn't want to work. Apparently she wants to gain enough passive income by the time she graduates from university that she can live without working.

Akari: Lately she has been putting her efforts into cooking and making gifts of food for Haruto-oniisan. But as always, he still treats her like a little sister.

Ashley: She is continuing her efforts to spread kawaii culture through vlogs in her university's International Cultural Exchange Association, and popular gossip says that she too is kawaii.

Riko: She is still helping at Chiaki-ya, and dreams of opening a town creche and after-school childcare centre for kids with busy parents.

Masara: After graduating, she plans to study overseas in search of stimulation. She has already felt a new waver of emotion from imagining parting ways with her friends.

Kokoro: As she grows up, she is gradually coming to understand her parents' feelings that led them to divorce. They also have more chances to talk to each other, and her family's relationship is improving.

Aimi: After a series of coincidences, she successfully had a one-on-one date with Hayato...! But she still has a long way to go before confessing her love.

Natsuki: She has started activities to promote girls' baseball in order to support girls who want to play. She is aiming for further developments in girls' baseball.

Kanoko: The mushrooms she incorporated into clothes she made were established to be a new species. While bewildered by her unexpected path to fame, she is fighting hard to promote herself.

Konomi: Inherited Blossom. She also holds flower arrangement classes regularly, and preaches the wonder of flowers to the people around her.

Tsumugi: Her connections led to her having a food review corner in a local Kamihama magazine, which is popular for conveying her love of food through its text.

Manaka: Walnuts was featured in a certain famous guidebook. She and her father have started attending English lessons in order to deal with the customers flooding in from across the world.

Ria: She plans to start full-fledged work as a model after she graduates, and wants to express her own identity.

Mayu: Entered an art university aiming to become a conservator-restorer. Ria rescued her from being invited into a weird club, keeping her safe from trouble.

Sayuki: Was invited to have a worldwide debut after her high school graduation. However, she wants to continue her studies into university, so she has put the offer on hold.

Hinano: She is continuing her kids' chemistry experiment classes while attending university. She has grown 3 millimetres taller than before, which she reported to Ryou and Ikumi's graves.

Emiri: Word of her Trouble Consultation Office spread and she was interviewed by the media. It also started trending on social media, so she'll be a charismatic gal in no time.

Ren: Founded an organisation with Rika to support children who are having hard lives. She aims to confront and improve issues of bullying.

Rika: Was invited by Ren to participate in activities supporting children. She holds lectures about diversity and lets kids come to her for advice.

​Konoha: Achieved excellent grades and went on to university with her tuition waived. While she feels the pressure of her grades, she is trying her best with her two little sisters as comfort.

Hazuki: At high school, those around her encouraged her to become student council president. She has learned the weight of being a leader and the importance of relying on others.

Ayame: She has grown rapidly, and after growing taller than Konoha, she now pats her head every day. Apparently Hazuki is her next target, and she trains daily.

Nanaka: While honouring tradition and protecting Kashin-ryuu, she has also succeeded as a young investor. She regularly holds lectures and shows off her business acumen.

Meiyui: Established the Blue Seas Group as a company. They are tightly knit with the community and have started to spread their locations across the world. She has also become famous as a pro mahjong player.

Akira: Works as an assistant instructor at a dojo and has also set up a troubleshooting office. Apparently it is famous for its very cute interior design.

Kako: Is helping out the Natsume Bookstore while aiming to become a librarian. Her read-aloud events for kids to teach them the charm of books have an excellent reputation in the community.

Asuka: She has continued her training and reached the point of full initiation into Ryuushin-ryuu. However, her carelessness has not improved, so the initiation is actually on hold.

Sasara: Was shocked to find out that she could not actually become a Rescue Squad member without leaving her father's home. However, she was encouraged when she learned of Asuka's efforts.

Shizuku: Revised the customer service at her family's cafe to make it more comfortable. As a result, apparently there has been a strange increase in customers who come there to see her.

Ayaka: Got a message of support from Needle Roller. Delighted at the support from someone she looks up to, she is continuing her battle as a solo comedian without giving in.

Reira: Held a sweet-making experience in order to broaden the circle of apartment kids, which proved highly popular and became a regular event.

Seika: Mustering the bravery she acquired through comedy, she asked to join a theatre troupe. She is aiming to become an actress who can perform in a hot-blooded sports story.

Mito: Became one of the mediators connecting the east and west. Her natural attitude and innocence have made her a key player in connecting everyone's hearts.

Himika: Earned a reward from helping the CEO of a certain food manufacturer, but turned it down. She persists in honourable poverty, but apparently the CEO intends to hire her someday.

Livia: She is still travelling the land for the sake of the universe. Lately she has also made plans to create a food truck for when she is low on income.

Sudachi: After returning to her hometown and facing her past, she has gradually started regaining the ability to speak. She has talked to Livia and Mikage over the phone.

Yozuru: In the process of mastering kind interactions, she has won popularity as if she were a host, but apparently she wants to become a child carer and be kind to children.

Lavi: Is managing Earth's Cradle with her mother. She has entered a university in Yukuni and sought teaching from a scholar with connections to Tasuke.

Nayuta: Entered a university her father does not teach at, in order to research magical girls in her own way. Even now, Lavi regularly comes to her boarding house to clean it.

Mikage: Upon receiving word that Ashita-ya was closing down, she forcefully became the second-generation shopkeeper. She is learning from the old lady's knowledge and trying to liven it up.

Himena: Started a nail salon, which has been smooth sailing. She plans to use the power she gains in the business world to make people acknowledge magical girl supremacy and her relationship with Hiko-kun.

Alexandra: Still loves singing and playing the harp, and holds small concerts. While performing at a certain shop, she was reunited with the teacher she had feelings for.

Shigure: Participated in a tournament using her homemade robot and won first place. She became the face of Koushou Academy, but fumbled too much in her speech and ended up crying.

Hagumu: A senior in the drama club asked her to make cosplay outfits, which became popular. Huge amounts of orders are pouring in, making every day hectic.

San: While studying for her civil service exams, she found documents about the Fire Festival that were confirmed to be historical records. There are signs that the Fire Festival may resume.

Miyuri: Won a national inline skating tournament without getting nervous. However, the plane ride to the world tournament was so scary that she has no memory of the journey.

Mitsune: Her legs recovered thanks to the power of the Uwasa. Apparently she is now supporting Kagome, making use of her own experience in social media.

Shizuka: Is considering the Tokime Clan's future with her companions while learning the Tokime Isshin-ryuu from her mother. Apparently she actually wants to go to a fashion school.

Chiharu: Her drama knowledge and analysis became famous and she ended up writing columns for a magazine. She is becoming a mystery drama critic.

Sunao: She has collected a great number of qualifications for helping people, such as caregiver qualifications. Apparently she wants to create a facility herself in the future.

Asahi: Lives in the mountains, away from other people. She has opened a wild game restaurant near the Tokime village that only operates on days when she has secured ingredients.

Chika: Has opened a shelter while continuing to work as a nature guide. It serves as an oasis for the hearts of people caught up in the tempests of the city.

Ryouko: Is making a pilgrimage around the country to mourn for magical girls in various locations. Many curious people come up to talk to her.

​Yuna: Announced the disbanding of Promised Blood. She is trying to become a parliamentary secretary to prevent the existence of magical girls being misused.

Juri: Became a professional boxer after graduating, but couldn't follow the rules when she got heated up, so quickly switched to being a trainer.

Ao: Became a famous DoTuber overnight through her gaming streams. She faced backlash over a verbal slip, but her popularity is skyrocketing again after she joined a pro gamer team.

Hikaru: Studying hard to get into university so she can help Yuna. For some reason, she apparently has a feeling that she would live a slack life if she didn't make it into university.

Ranka: She is standing out as a pro gamer, and added the down-and-out Ao to her team, propping up her popularity.

Urara: Joined a circus troupe and is travelling the nation, continuing to perform. She has asked Kurara to co-star with her again, but has already been declined ten times.

Alina: Has stopped making art based on destruction and begun making art based on the radiance of life resisting suffering. Her activities provide hope to people in rough situations.

Karin: Spends every day continuing to draw art so that she can chase after Alina as an assistant. However, she can't resist new volumes of Magical Kirin.

Kanagi: Was given an award from Kamihama City for her efforts in creating a future without discrimination between east and west. She has reported the latest situation to Ryou and Ikumi's graves.

Mitama: She resumed her Coordinator business, but her affection for magical girls exploded, leading to a string of odd injuries. Momoko has ended up becoming her chaperon.

Tsukuyo: Upon her graduation, she announced to her family that she would leave home and "live with Tsukasa". It caused quite an uproar, but there are signs she will be given permission.

Tsukasa: The bamboo workshop was shaken by the announcement that she would live with Tsukuyo. However, the workers gave her father a push, and he is now shifting the Akatsuki family.

Mifuyu: Even after entering the university pharmaceutical department, she is still studying intensely to escape from her family. She reflects on her appreciation for Touka and Nemu every day.

Momoko: The position of Coordinator's chaperon was pushed onto her, and she fell victim to Mitama's appreciative cooking. Rena and Kaede's growth makes her feel a little lonely.

Kaede: Borrowed some farmland from the city and grew some vegetables, which were a big hit. Seeing her business spirit as she sells them without fear, her parents can feel how their daughter has grown.

Rena: Has made more friends at school, possibly as a result of her personality mellowing out slightly. Even now, she stays in contact with Ranka and plays with her.

Yachiyo: As her non-modelling work increases, she continues to wait for Iroha's return while making Mikazuki Villa a place for magical girls to relax.

Tsuruno: She has handed over her role as drawcard for Banbanzai and has started to inherit her father's flavour. Also, apparently there is a chance her older sister will return and help out again.

Felicia: Inherited the role of drawcard for Banbanzai from Tsuruno. However, she swipes food while setting the tables, so customers complain that the portions are smaller than before.

Sana: Received a publishing offer for her picture books, but since she is invisible, she is getting support from the people around her as she begins her writing career.

Iroha/Ui: They continue to gather and file records along with the impurities from all over the world. They manage them in the Magia Record so that they can someday be conveyed to people.

Touka/Nemu: While compiling the gathered records of magical girls, they are also searching for a way to save magical girls using Uwasa.

Sakurako: The Uwasa itself remains in Kamihama, but she now lives in the same place as Iroha and her companions, assisting them.

Kagome: While making plans to publish her notes, she is currently considering her future course, in order to fulfil her dream of interviewing magical girls around the world.