Magia Record Story The Ash Grey Revolution: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 02:11, 4 February 2022

The following is a summary posted on Discord by Mochi.

Introduction

"This is the story of a group of girls who wanted to reveal the existence of mahou shoujo to everyone so that they could be comforted as they continue their fight against that which is invisible."

Rabi: We cannot stop the neverending rotation of the starry sky.

Urara: No matter how much I practice, I can't resist the gravity that pulls on my diabolo.

Alexandra: No matter how much I speak out, without this atmosphere my singing voice would never be heard.

Asahi: Yes, we are always controlled by the invisible. Just like this rabbit, who by my unseen hand has lost its life. Everything is made up by nature's providence. Being at the mercy of something is a fate in which we have no choice but to resign ourselves to...

Part One

Chapter 1: Truth

1-1

In Yukuni, Asahi is saying good morning to her father. He offers her some tea, which she gladly accepts. Her mother hands her a bowl of miso soup filled with eggs and wild vegetables. Asahi's grandmother went up in the mountains this morning and picked them, which Asahi realizes means that warm weather is coming.

The TV pipes up, announcing Yukuni's All-star Festival is going to be held. It's going to have markets filled to the brim with local specialty goods and various exhibits on Yukuni's history and traditions. What's more, up on stage will be the local street artist prodigy Yume Urara showing off her skills with a group! All sorts of fun things will be taking place, so let's all join the event together! For more details, check Yukuni's tourism homepage!

Asahi notes that they've been putting way more effort into advertising the festival this time, including these commercials. Her father says it's because all the landslides and avalanches have soured the mood throughout the town this winter, so everyone is taking this chance to brighten up the place. They themselves will be selling wild vegetables and smoked meat.

Her mother hands her breakfast, saying lots of tourists will be coming in this time, so it's going to be lots of fun. Asahi agrees, but loses her smile quickly, saying that while it isn't something she can just say to those who lost family due to the avalanches, but she hopes this will be an opportunity for people to get well, even if only a little. Asahi's grandmother puts tamagoyaki on everyone's plates, telling them all to enjoy it together. Everyone begins eating happily.

Asahi: "I am grateful for all life."

1-2

At school, Asahi's teacher is dismissing everyone for the day, reminding members of the festival to stick around and for the student with duties to begin. The student announces for everyone to stand at attention and bow.

Asahi notices everyone is talking about the festival now. Two students (Kuroda and Haitani) thank Asahi for the other day. Asahi wonders what she's being thanked for. Kuroda tells her for the deer meat she gave him, and that his father loved it. Asahi takes a second to recall that, then remembers she gave it to him because she was trying to perk him up since he looked so tired. Kuroda bows to her, apologizing for making her take care of him. Asahi tells him if he's going to bow like that, she's going to feel sorry as well.

Asahi asks if Haitani is here for similar reasons. She shows Asahi a web version of a local magazine's article. It states that within the mountains of the Toki village, a stone monument was discovered. For a long time it was said that there was no evidence of its existence, possibly supporting the legend of the Heike family??

Asahi is suddenly shocked -- is this the very same stone monument that she found a while ago!? Kuroda confirms it is, and it's now under jurisdiction of the board of education, so they'll be researching it soon. Asahi is taken aback by the news, guessing you can't ever really know what will happen.

Haitani tells her that thanks to that, since she and Kuroda are members of the festival executive committee, they're going to be busy. Their school is doing an exhibit on Yukuni's history, after all. Asahi apologizes for giving the two of them even more work. She tells Asahi there's no need to apologize. Their subject is on the legend of Heike which, despite being so interesting, has never had any actual evidence to it before. She gives a quote of "If there's nothing about it you can believe, it's as if it doesn't exist." So she's thankful for Asahi finding that monument. Kuroda thanks her to, saying that all this busywork is keeping his mind off of the avalanche. Asahi tells him she wishes he wouldn't say things that are hard to talk about with such a big smile on his face.

Asahi's phone chimes, and Kuroda apologizes for keeping her when she has her own work to take care of. Asahi tells him it's nothing major, and tells these two executive committee members to do their best. They both thank her.

Asahi: "I won't be outdone by Kuroda and Haitani. I shall perform my duties too."

1-3

Asahi: "Himuro Rabi...Kurisu Alexandra... They seem to be heading this way."

Asahi has come to realize that two problems occurred at the same time. Territory disputes have begun. What once used to be roughly 10 girls around at a time has seen a sudden spike recently, likely due to their hometown's protection program. Too many girls moved to the area, so such fighting is inevitable, and they're going to have no choice but to make compromises.

But what Asahi is more concerned about is the other problem... Kyubey is having a girl he's been hammering to contract move right towards a witch's barrier. Asahi decides it would be better to handle this one and avoid another girl being added as fuel to the fire.

Urara is panting, realizing what she's seen is in fact real. She asks Kyubey why he's been following her. Kyubey gives his usual contract request, with Urara not wanting anything to do with whatever he's on about. He ends with asking Urara if she has anything she's ever wished for that she wants granted.

Urara tells him that she's been struggling with money, but she's been able to make some with street performances, at least for the time being at least. Kyubey tells her that he can take away all her fears of the future like the creepy ass cat he is. Urara isn't buying it, saying she doesn't want to be dragged off by some weird invite.

Suddenly they get pulled into a barrier. Kyubey continues his explanation, now moving on to witches and what they do to towns. A familiar tries attacking Urara, so Kyubey tells her to contract or she's going to be killed. She still refuses, and screams out as the familiar is about to hit her. The familiar is destroyed as two girls show up, telling her to go hide while they handle this. All of this is confounding Urara.

1-4

Urara: "Contracts - mahou shoujo - what'd you get me mixed up in...!?"

The two mahou shoujo barely managed to defeat the witch and collapse outside. Urara asks if they're okay. They tell her they recover quickly, so she should hurry up and get out of here before Kyubey tries soliciting her again. As they lie there, one tells the other that she can't move. The other says she doesn't want that girl to experience this regret they feel.

Meanwhile, Asahi has gone down an alley, finding Rabi and Alexandra for the first time. Alexandra greets her, asking her to call her Sasha. They're in the same group chat, but have never met in person before. Rabi explains the group was created to watch the city and keep tabs on the number of mahou shoujo within it. Before long the number grew, so it's only natural that not everyone has met each other. She also adds that she isn't good with talking to others, so she doesn't actively contribute much herself. Asahi tells her that even just knowing what's going on is helpful.

Asahi asks about the info regarding the mahou shoujo who contacted them, but the two have only just arrived. Rabi senses mahou shoujo nearby, so she suggests checking it out. They arrive at the scene of the two previous girls on the ground with blackened soul gems. Rabi figures this must be who contacted them. They're clearly suffering and on the verge of witching out. Unfortunately, none of them have a grief seed on hand. Rabi and Sasha ask Asahi, but even she doesn't have any due to the overwhelming amount of girls competing against one another. Asahi points out that there must be one nearby since the witch is gone though.

One of the girls says she couldn't find it nearby, and asks what's going to happen to her. Rabi answers that she doesn't know. Sasha has never heard of what happens when a soul gem clouds up. Suddenly the girls begin witching out, and the three are only just now learning the truth - that they're giving off the same reaction as witches...!

1-5

Urara: "Those girls who helped me... What the hell happened to them..."

The trio find themselves inside a fresh witch labyrinth. They start puzzling why those girls had the same reaction as the witch here, and before long Asahi is getting attacked by a familiar. Rabi tells them they can't stand by and need to attack what's in front of them. She asks Sasha what her magic is, and Sasha explains it weakens her enemy's willpower. Rabi says she can use that to slow the enemy down so she can get in to attack them. As the two begin fighting back, Asahi yells to them that the witch is on the move, making Rabi pause. Rabi is coming to realize that those girls must really be...

Rabi gets hit by a familiar before she can react. Asahi rushes over to check on her. Rabi is certain now that the girls became witches. Asahi stops, realizing this would mean killing their own kind. Sasha agrees with her, and the witches get away, dumping them back into the alley. They wonder how they can even fight while feeling like this.

Rabi asks if Kyubey is here. Of course he is, the little shit. Rabi asks what is the meaning of this. The girls seemed like witches to the three of them. Kyubey says that's right, and explains that they become witches when their soul gems turn black with impurity.

1-6

Alexandra: "What...Kyubey said just now... He was lying, right...?"

Rabi, visibly upset, says she doesn't recall being told that when she contracted. Kyubey says "That's because you didn't ask. Was there a problem?" Sasha asks what the hell is he talking about, of course there's a problem! It's the same as being dead! Kyubey reassures her that her people are not dying, and in fact are growing in number, so why does it matter if one person lives or dies?

Asahi tells him that in their world, individual lives and deaths are given utmost respect, so failing to inform one of risks is basically fraud. Kyubey talks back, saying granting a wish should be more than enough for what little price they pay. He doesn't believe it's warranted to call it fraud.

Asahi drops him with a single shot, saying it's not for him to decide what is worth that price. She turns to the others, apologizing for not letting Kyubey finish. Rabi tells her not to worry, as she would have killed him if she hadn't.

Urara is behind them, drawing attention. Sasha asks if she just saw everything. Urara says she felt bad about running away, and then saw something weird happen to the two girls that saved her, and asks if they're okay. Rabi tells her that the existence mahou shoujo live with is one where they protect the world from witches like the one she just saw. However, the end of it all is that each girl becomes a witch themselves. Rabi tells her to forget about ever wanting to contract. Asahi joins in, telling her this was all an illusion. Sasha also tells her it was all a dream, an illusion, whatever, so just pretend you never saw any of this. Urara is questioning, but in the end she says she understands.

The trio notice the girls' soul gems are now gone, but their bodies are still warm, as if they lost their souls. The long and short of it is that these soul gems are their lives. Sasha can't believe it, but this is reality for them. She starts tearing up. The lone rabbit Asahi killed is now shown on screen.

Asahi We're like prey unaware of the existence of traps. Unaware of anything, we run across hills and fields, only to realize we've been caught by them. The reality that one's life is being held in the clutches of someone or something unseen...

Boss 1

Asahi: "The truth we must face is too heavy to bear..."

Chapter 2: Sympathy

2-1

Alexandra: "It doesn't feel like I'm alive. This feels horrible..."

Alexandra is with her group practicing their singing for the festival, but her teacher finds them needing to practice more. Alexandra is more aware than ever that she controls her vocal chords, changing pitch as she sings. She is still living like a human, but she's not human anymore... She remembers the moment those two girls turned to witches again. She now knows that she's a witch, but currently still a mahou shoujo. Barely a human, but still the same Kurisu Alexandra she always was.

Outside of class, a couple girls are chatting that the teacher is strict, then notice Sasha is looking down. She puts on a fake smile and tells them there's nothing wrong. One of them asks if she actually does like her teacher like the rumors are saying, but them immediately says sorry for bringing that up to her. The other girl tells her off for saying something wrong, and the girl apologizes again. She asks Sasha again if something is wrong though.

Sasha says she's the one who should be worried, as the fest is coming up and she's playing the leading part. She's not sure if she's going to be able to handle it, but they tell her she'll be just fine. She's the lead because she gives it her all, after all.

Sasha begins wondering if those two girls she was with the other day are doing okay. Himuro Rabi and Miura Asahi, was it... She wants to send them a message, but really she's just seeking comfort. She knows they would just see right through her intentions, so she would feel guilty doing so...

2-2

Rabi: "Even in times of silence, the vibrant stars are watching me."

Rabi is alone on the rooftop of her school in the middle of the night, after the final bell has chimed. Only the stars above can see her now. The stars have watched the earth and its history, and the mahou shoujo who have inhabited it. They've "observed" her transition into a lifeless being.

Suddenly Shirogane heads up to the roof to see her. She's once again met up with Himuro-senpai to gaze at the stars. Rabi tells her all she does is lie down and watch them. She tells Shirogane that accompanying her like this would be difficult to make a habit of, but Shirogane tells her that she's not here to hang out with Himuro, she's just here because she likes doing it. Rabi tells Shirogane that she's not popular like she is, so she should go back to living a happy life with her friends in school. Shirogane tells her that she has no interest in others. Even if she's the center of attention in class, all it does is make her look good. She has no interest in getting to know people in class, that's why she's comfortable with the distance she has now with Himuro-senpai.

Rabi tells her she must not be interested in her either, then. Shirogane replies that she's the only one she's interested in. Rabi sighs and tells her to help herself then. Shirogane tells her that she feels like she finally understands what she said when they first met on the roof. Rabi doesn't remember, so Shirogane recites it: "Empty beings like yourself who live without recognition preserve themselves by being seen by many." Rabi explains that Shirogane is one who desires friends, but is alone. Like isolated delusions. Shirogane says she full of contradictions like that. She should be good at attracting people and making friends, but she finds no meaning to it. Rabi tells her she really is wasteful, and that she envies her. Rabi recites more words of the universe:

"In a world where society and self exist through perception of others, you have attained enough to be known by both." "Assuming the stars have a will like I do, I think you can do enough by exposure alone, even if you don't try to connect to this world, though."

Despite saying this, Rabi is trying to hold back a hurt look on her face, Shirogane notices. She asks Himuro-senpai if something is wrong. Rabi tells her she doesn't know who she is anymore, that she doesn't want to admit that she's not human anymore. Shirogane questioningly tells her that she is still a human.

Rabi wonders what the moon and stars must think, having seen the so-called eternity of history. She thought they would comfort her, much how the sun shines light upon everything in the day. But now instead of comforting, she feels like they're mocking her. Shirogane tells her with a stern face that she's been watching Himuro-senpai just as long as the moon and stars have, and, changing to a smile, reassures her that she's okay - that she is human.

Rabi senses a witch's reaction in that moment, but smiles, thanking Shirogane for the boost in confidence. She asks if Shirogane will meet here again. Shirogane replies that yes, when she feels like it.

A short time later, Rabi's phone pings with a message from Sasha. She writes that she just felt a witch's reaction, but if anyone is around, could she talk to everyone? She continues that she feels trapped and can't get out, and doesn't know who she is anymore. Rabi says out loud that we're all the same...

2-3

The trio meet up on the dark streets, with Sasha apologizing for sending them a message out of the blue. Rabi and Asahi tell her they've been feeling the same way. Sasha tells them they have to defeat the witch and get the grief seed, or else they'll become witches too. She hasn't worked up the courage to fight, but she's also afraid of becoming one. She tells them she's being incredibly selfish, but she wants a friend. Someone who will help her face reality and fight witches.

Asahi tells Sasha that's honestly exactly what she wanted to hear. She's been going through the same pain, and her soul gem is getting cloudy, just like Sasha's. Rabi tells them that the three of them will fall at this rate, so she would find it fortunate if us impure ones could fight together. She senses the witch again, telling them this is the best time to check how compatible they'll be.

The three of them head to the barrier, still nervous wrecks about how they're killing their own. But if they leave the witch be, the city will be cursed. Asahi ponders that those girls who became witches were saving the girl they found, so if the turn around now, their sacrifices will be in vain. Rabi tells them that in order to keep the selfless hope those girls had alive, they need to defeat these witches. Asahi and Sasha agree - they can't let the past be ruined by letting these witches go.

Asahi: "Defeating witches is kindness... And will keep their hope alive as mahou shoujo...!"

2-4

Alexandra: "At least I can help them pass on peacefully."

The three of them work together to weaken the witch, leaving the finishing blow to Sasha, but she's having second thoughts. This was once someone who she used to study with, go to her club with, someone who had a family...and now she's trying to kill her. Wait no, Himuro and Miura are right. Taking out witches will save the mahou shoujo who gave their lives to save everyone and wished for miracles. Sasha begins hyperventilating, so Asahi and Rabi move in to finish it.

Outside, Rabi tells Asahi to give Sasha the grief seed too, saying she won't last much longer without it. Sasha tells her no, since she panicked at the last second and caused them trouble. Asahi shoves the grief seed onto her anyway, to her surprise. Asahi says it would be more trouble for her to become a witch, leaving Sasha with a sad look on her face. Asahi drops her stern look and tells her rather, it would be lonely without her. Sasha starts crying and thanks her.

Moving on, they still feel like they're trapped despite coming to terms with fighting witches. Sasha brings up a cat she used to keep at home. One day it got out of house, and since then it's always looked back inside like it misses them. So maybe the cat was always looking out the window because it understood the situation it was in and was looking for help. She asks if they think they're the same as that cat. Suddenly knowing the truth, suffering because of it, and looking for freedom and salvation.

Asahi says when she learned the truth, it reminded her of a rabbit she shot. It reminded her that she's trapped by the unknown. Rabi says she's felt like the stars themselves were closing in on her as they watch her. An emptiness began enveloping her, as if no one would ever understand them, since they now lie beyond human logic.

Rabi continues, saying she once suffered from an illness that too was barely understood, so she abandoned the being known as Himuro Rabi. She came to know all too well that people are intolerant of what they don't understand. Asahi tells them that this ominous sense of being controlled is something only they will ever understand. Sasha tells them this is something they alone have to face.

2-5

At the station, Sasha asks the two where they live. Asahi is from Toki Village, so she grabs a bus from here. Rabi lives at the Yukuni hot-springs village, so she takes a different bus from here. Sasha giggles and tells them she lives at the port area in the opposite direction.

Asahi remarks that for someone who just learned the fate of mahou shoujo, Sasha-dono has a pretty natural smile. Sasha gets embarrassed to hear that. Asahi realizes that she went overboard and made her smile disappear.

Over a TV nearby, Yume Urara is being introduced as a street performer who's popular with the kids. Urara is glad to be on the air. They realize that's the girl who was saved the other day, the one Kyubey was trying to get to contract and saw the other girls witch out. Sasha has seen her perform before, and she's on local TV sometimes, so lots of kids know her. Asahi, being from the mountains, isn't familiar with her.

Urara is being interviewed, explaining that her siblings got her into performing since they struggled to even pay for food. They had a farm that kept them busy, but they never had entertainment since they couldn't afford toys. That's when she saw street performing as what she wanted. That's when she started balancing and tossing boxes, then made her own diabolo and began practicing with it. All her siblings loved it, and now it's become her job.

Sasha says that specials like this are what got people talking about her. Asahi agrees that seeing someone so young working hard makes you want to cheer for them. Sasha tells her it's kinda mean to say, but it's like giving her a sympathy vote.

Urara continues on the TV, saying that she's grateful she has partners and fans alike who accept her despite her past. Rabi suddenly frowns upon hearing that. Sasha notices she looks meek, and asks what's wrong. Rabbi suddenly pulls her and Asahi into a hug. They both wonder what's up with her. Rabi tells them she realizes why she's been feeling loneliness. She didn't feel fear, emptiness, or anger when she realizes she's trapped - she was feeling loneliness. It's because she's wanted people to accept her for who she is in the same way Urara has been. She's never known anyone who would accept her for the situation she's found herself in. She begins crying, saying it was all just loneliness. Asahi and Sasha both understand how she feels - they have no one but themselves and other mahou shoujo who share this secret.

Rabi: "I've finally come to understand what it is I've wanted..."

2-6

Rabi: "In retrospect, just having my circumstances be understood was helping me."

Rabi begins by telling them she lost her father many years ago. Her (assuming here) grandparents are there, telling her to place the flowers and see him off while she cries. Her grandmother tells her that her father will watch over her. Her grandfather says that after he rises into the sky, he will return as a drop of rain. Her father will always be with her as memories in her heart.

Back then, there were many people who called out to her, but she never listened to them as she was overcome with grief. She felt no one understood what she was going through, so their words felt hollow. She was more angry than anything for people telling her pointless things. She felt it unnecessary for them to understand her feelings.

Urara's interview continues on the TV. She tells the woman that she used to be teased and made fun of, and people would be white-eyed staring at her for walking into stores looking dirty. But even so, there were people out there who helped her, who helped her family.

Asahi assumes that just have connections with the outside world is enough to make changes. The three of them are like prisoners sharing a cell, but with no one to visit them. Sasha says that no one knows or understands their sadness or suffering now. Rabi says she knows people are intolerant of what they don't understand, but she still wants sympathy from someone - anyone. It doesn't have to be understanding or being freed from her fate. It can just be words of comfort to ease her mind even for just a while.

When Rabi's father passed away, the frustration she felt had helped her. She's come to realize that now more than ever she wants that temporary sympathy, or even just weak encouragement...

Boss 2

Rabi: "Even now the dreams of my father fill me with anger and sympathy, but also relief."

Chapter 3: Rule

3-1

Asahi: "Even if the witch is a mahou shoujo, I am ready to fight."

Up in the mountain area of Yukuni, Asahi has finished defeating a witch despite showing hesitation. She's decided along with Sasha-dono and Himuro-dono that they will defeat the witches as their way of saving them. She heads into the woods away from where the unconscious people are, glad she brought her hunting rifle with her so she can pretend she was just passing by. She finds an animal out in the woods, takes aim, and kills it.

Returning home, she explains to her mother that she woke up early to go take a walk, and hunted a rabbit for us at the festival. Her mother reminds her that they already had enough as of yesterday. Asahi tells her she thought it would be better to have extra than not enough. Her grandmother tells her that's wrong. Her father then tells her to sit in front of him, as he then hits her.

He tells her that he would never object to her hunting to live, but hunting just to hunt is inexcusable. He continues, telling her to not treat the life of a creature so crudely. Asahi tries to tell him what she said before, but he tells her that if he can't get through to her now, then the life she's taken will have been for nothing. He also noticed that Asahi has been hunting as an excuse to vent her anxiety. She tries to tell him that she isn't, but he knows that she's been acting weird lately, as a parent he knows these things.

He knows Asahi was taught the importance of life, but even so she taken her problems out on a rabbit's life, giving it an unjust death. Asahi thinks to herself that her life is being held by the unseen, but then begins crying and apologizes to her father. He tells her that she's apologizing to the wrong one here. He tells her to sit here and eat the rabbit as a lesson, regardless if she's late or not today. Asahi truly is sorry for what she's done.

3-2

Asahi arrives at school, feeling worse about herself, though agreeing she had been hunting to vent her problems. She thinks to herself that she too will die needlessly if she's hunted as one tied to the fate of mahou shoujo. She knows she needs to rethink how to face life.

Haitani and Kuroda say good morning to her, with Asahi noticing the two are always together. Kuroda asks about it, and Haitani explains that since they've known each other since they were little and so much together, outsiders must see them as inseparable pair. Kuroda realizes this and thinks it's kinda embarrassing, making Haitani ask if he hates being around her. He says it's not like that, and brings up the stone monument.

Haitani asks Asahi if she would mind being interviewed later regarding it. They tell her they need more content for their exhibit, and having the first person who discovered it would help. Haitani begs her to accept, while Asahi thinks back to what she told Rabi and Sasha earlier about having connections changing them for the better. Asahi realizes there's meaning in being known, so she accepts the interview request.

Asahi begins wondering if the two would believe her if she told them about her fate as a mahou shoujo and will become a witch one day. She wonders if they would believe her in the way they believe in the legend of Heike, despite no evidence. Himuro-dono said that she wanted even just weak sympathy and encouragement. Asahi thinks that she's feeling the same thing, which made her wander over to hunting as her way to vent, and is sure these emotions are taking root somewhere unseen within her. Would Kuroda and Haitani believe her and feel sad for her? She can't tell them, no. It has to remain a secret, as that's part of being a mahou shoujo...

Asahi: "It would be much easier if I could just openly confess about mahou shoujo, but..."

3-3

Alexandra is meekly singing in her class/practice, thinking about Rabi telling her story of when her father died. She too doesn't want to be alone, and wants her friends, teachers, and family to know what's happening to them. She just wants a little comfort in all this.

She can't even bring herself to sing anymore, feeling like she's about to cry. Her teacher asked her to stay after, but Sasha knows it's because she can't sing. He's noticed that she is failing to keep up, and isn't sure if he can ask her to be the lead anymore with the festival so close. He tells her that there's another reason he asked her to stay after, though. He doesn't hold anything back, and asks her if something had happened. She immediately starts crying, not able to tell him. He apologizes if it's something uncomfortable to talk about, but reminds her to talk to someone if it's too much to handle alone. He even offers to go ask another staff member to come talk to her if she wants.

Sasha tells him it's nothing serious and was just a shock to her, so she'll get better. He still brings up that she won't be able to lead anymore, but instead is willing to let her have the solo instead, to her surprise. He thinks her wavering voice, despite not being in balance with the rest of the team, is still great individually, so if she wants to she can have her voice reach people through the solo. Sasha thinks to herself that her old crush still understands her and is there for her in his own way, but wishes she could tell him the truth of what's going on.

But everything regarding mahou shoujo life is a secret. That they're fighting witches, and will become witches, it has to all remain a secret.

Alexandra: "Keeping secrets is hard, isn't it..."

3-4

The next night on her school's rooftop, Rabi discovers that Shirogane really does show up here all the time. Shirogane tells her that she has to be the one who proves that Himuro-senpai exists. Rabi tells her that's a very critical role to be burdened with. Shirogane tells her it really is.

Rabi changes subject to the festival, asking if Shirogane if she's doing alright since her place is a farm. Shirogane has no interest in it though. She asks Himuro-senpai if she's helping the hot spring village with the festival, but Rabi isn't interested either, so it's simple help during the day. Shirogane says they're really alike, then catches Rabi staring at her. Rabi asks to keep staring a little longer, so Shirogane says sure.

Rabi begins thinking how Shirogane has been the only one who proved she exists until she recently met Miura and Kurisu. She's certain Shirogane doesn't lie about herself, yet Rabi lies to her and continues to be accepted by her. She thinks that if Shirogane knows nothing about who she really is, then her existence has never been proven, and she's betraying her.

Rabi begins to speak up, but Shirogane already knows something's been bothering her. Rabi tells her she's been keeping a secret from her and wants to confess it as her to prove she's sincere. Shirogane accepts and will listen to whatever she has to say without judgment. Rabi starts, but quickly finds herself unable to speak.

She feels a pang in her heart and wonders why she can't just tell her. Is it because being a mahou shoujo must be kept secret? Because she feels like she will be hated? Because she thinks Shirogane will realize she's weird? Or will she become attracted to her? There's no reason for her to be filling up with this anxiety, as none of it has to do with Shirogane. There shouldn't be any problem, so why...!

She tries to speak again, but Shirogane grabs her by the neck and asks why won't she tell her? She's always believed in her, and asks who or what is she. Rabi struggles to tell her to let go, while Shirogane screams at her to hurry up and tell her. Rabi notices a witch's kiss on Shirogane, not paying attention the reaction nearby. She throws Shirogane off of her, and shames herself for letting her own problems catch her off guard. Rabi transforms, saying she'll save her at once.

Rabi: "I have people I must protect. This is not the time for dreaming."

3-5

Shirogane wakes up with Rabi by her side. She's confused and doesn't understand why she started strangling her senpai, but Rabi tells her to calm down, as nothing has happened. Rabi begins telling her that it's her duty as a mahou shoujo to protect children like Shirogane from witches influencing them. Shirogane begins asking what that means, when Rabi transforms in front of her. Rabi isn't holding back at all now. She explains Shirogane tried strangling her because of a witch, and she is a mahou shoujo who fights said witches. She explains witches cursing the world, and how Shirogane must have had weakness in her heart that the witch was able to take advantage of.

Shirogane slowly begins to understand, and realizes Himuro-senpai must save a lot of people with this other side of her. Rabi then tells her that they run out of magic, they too become witches, so it's not a perfect life. Even if it's hard to understand, Shirogane will still believe her senpai's words.

Rabi then gets a message on her phone. It's about another witch in the area, so she has to go take care of it, telling Shirogane she will see her another time. Rabi leaps off the rooftop and takes off at inhuman speed in front of Shirogane.

Rabi: "I'm sure it's okay. There's no need to hesitate to talk about mahou shoujo."

3-6

Alexandra: What courage! I've yet to say anything about mahou shoujo...

Rabi has now met up with Sasha and Asahi, letting them know she spoke out about who she really is. Sasha asks what Shirogane's reaction was, as no one would ever believe something like this. Rabi says that while Shirogane didn't seem to understand, she is one to process what she's told before saying whether she believes or not. Sasha is amazed at this, wondering why she's been holding back when there's people she trusts. Asahi feels the same way. She's wanted to tell others, but felt it had to be kept secret.

Rabi says that they're living through the impossible, and originally thought it was wrong to seek comfort and sympathy, but now she knows there's more than her own life to lose here. They others know she means they're also risking becoming witches. Getting their wishes granted has left them with more problems.

They all realize now that they're less happy than before they had their wishes. Rabi tells them that she's been thinking they should start trying to get some of their happiness back. In other words, there's nothing wrong with telling others their new problem and seeking comfort, as they've done good and deserve good in return. Rabi suggests the three of them try spreading the truth about mahou shoujo.

Boss 3

Alexandra: "Why would I be bound by a rule that doesn't exist?"

Chapter 4: Spread

4-1

Now on an internet broadcast, Urara's announcing this week's show with her co-star Kurara, titled "Night Fun Homeroom". For this episode they're back to their normal recording studio, since they can't afford to be on TV all the time even if it's a remote station. Urara tells Kurara not to reveal the circumstances of their budget, then goes on to explain that due to her late nights of dealing with witches she had to cut their budget.

Kurara shouts there it is again: Urara keeps bringing up this "witch" urban legend she's been really into lately. Urara tells her that she really was attacked, and was saved by these mahou shoujo! These heroes go out of their way to save people every day, so everyone should support them if they see them! Kurara tells her she hasn't seen any, and wouldn't want to be in a situation where they'd be needed if they did exist. Urara agrees, maybe it's safer to never actually meet one, but hey, they have it rough out there, so give them your support anyway. Kurara announces that's the end of Urara's occult corner, but Urara tells this is still the opening talk of their show, and don't make it sound that way!

Sasha shows the trio that Urara runs a show on the internet, and the last show they saw was on cable TV and archived on their site now. The show is more meant for teens it seems. Rabi knows that they didn't have any way to really spread the truth of their existence until now. Asahi continues, saying that saving that girl ended up being major help for them. Sasha tells them that until she saw this episode, she had felt completely trapped, but now has gained confidence.

Asahi brings up that they now need to reveal themselves somehow. Sasha tells Rabi the broadcast ended an hour ago and is already archived, so people are probably watching it already. Rabi decides that she will listen for rumors spreading at school tomorrow, and Sasha says she'll bring it up with her classmates.

Asahi is now heading home alone, glad that Sasha-dono is there for them to understand the latest trends. But suddenly she senses a witch nearby, following it to an area where the avalanche and landslide combo occurred. There she finds Kuroda, grieving over the loss of her mother. He ridicules himself for being unable to keep her safe, and begins placing a knife to this throat. Asahi rushes in and stops him by force. Kuroda gets angry and begins attacking her, showing Asahi that he's got a witch's kiss. Asahi knocks him out cold as she begins thinking back to Rabi and Sasha wanting to try spreading their existence. Asahi is ready to give it a try and see how Kuroda reacts.

Asahi: "There's no need to hesitate. Just confess how Himuro-dono has..."

4-2

Kuroda wakes up after the battle, wondering what's up with Asahi's outfit. Asahi says it's embarrassing to just outright state it, but tells him that she's a mahou shoujo. Kuroda wasn't himself, so she went to check on him. He was being influenced by a witch, so she came to his rescue. Kuroda heard about these words from Urara's show, but thought it was just some urban legend with cosplay. Asahi tells him that's horrid, and tells him that she's one of the mahou shoujo that Urara saw. Kuroda is still asking if this is serious, and Asahi tells him she has no reason to lie, as it's embarrassing enough as it is.

Asahi drops Kuroda's knife to the ground. He begins remembering why he came out here, and how horrible he feels, and how he thought to just let himself die along with everyone else who didn't make it. Asahi tells him to stop. While what he's feeling is genuine, the witch made what he's feeling significantly worse. He was caught in a moment of weakness. Kuroda says he never had actual thoughts of dying, but Asahi knows. She explains it's the witches who push them and take their lives.

Kuroda says he's starting to feel his true feelings come back to him, and knows Asahi wouldn't lie about something like this. Asahi is glad he believes her, and says she never thought her existence would just get revealed on a broadcast like this. Asahi begins taking off, but Kuroda stops her. Kuroda smiles and thanks her once again.

Asahi: "I told him...I got through to him...!! There are people who will understand us!"

4-3

Asahi is at school, impressed by the power of media turning their existence from nothing to an urban legend on such short notice. Haitani rushes over and thanks her for the interview the other day. Asahi reminds her that all her story was is that she stumbled upon it. Haitani reassures her she can fix it in post. Asahi spots piles of handwritten papers that she's using for the exhibit.

Kuroda follows shortly behind, taking the heavy papers from her. He then asks Asahi if she can spare a minute to talk privately. Haitani kyaas, wondering if there's something going on between him and Miura...!? He wonders what's going on in that head of hers, and tells it nothing like that.

Inside a classroom, Asahi asks what this is about, then begins blushing thanks to what Haitani said. Kuroda wants to ask Asahi for a favor: he's going to confess his feelings on the day of the festival! He has to point out that it's to Haitani, so Asahi gives a ohh, so you are huh haha kind of reaction. He asks what's with that reaction. She says there isn't really any way that she can help with that, but Kuroda says there is.

Asahi starts making excuses that they're always together anyways, plus she's clumsy as can be, but Kuroda says no, you're a mahou shoujo, aren't you...? Asahi is suddenly surprised, asking if he really did believe that, so he responds saying, huh, you were lying? She stammers that no, no, that was the truth, it's just a huge relief and shock to be believed. Kuroda continues that if she really is one, then she should help with his confession, as in protecting him from witches. Asahi eventually agrees to such an odd request, but adds that if he gets rejected it's not her fault. She tells him that she's doing this because a friend has asked her to (relating back to MS 6-3).

Now outside, Asahi gets a text from Rabi that Kyubey is after Urara again, so she's going after her in case of more witches. Rabi writes that if either of them are near them (Miura or Kurisu), they should come to the spot she's attaching to this message. If they try sensing her magic, they might find it easier to locate her that way.

Asahi: "More misfortune for Yume Urara. She doesn't want to contract, yet continues to be followed..."

4-4

Rabi: "To approach her for contracting within a barrier... What do you think a human life is..."

With witch exterminated, Rabi is standing outside with Urara. Urara thanks her for once again saving her life. Rabi says she just doesn't want her to fall victim to Kyubey. Kyubey reassures her that he means no harm, he just wants her to sign the dang contract. Rabi asks him if there's any particular reason he keeps chasing her towards witches. No matter what Kyubey says, Rabi refuses to listen to him, so he takes his leave.

Sighing, Rabi asks if Urara is okay. Urara confesses that she's the one who went towards danger this time. She tried to recreate the same situation as the last time she got attacked. Rabi wonders why - was she attempting suicide and she just got in the way...? If she's so troubled, it's no wonder the witches are captivated with her. Urara corrects her that she just wanted to see mahou shoujo again, especially the ones who saved her last time.

Urara has been talking about them on her show in hopes that those three would be listening in, and has been doing whatever she can to find Kyubey and more witches. Rabi chuckles, realizing that the three of them got hooked. Urara tells her she didn't even know their names or how to find them. Rabi says that it's thanks to her that students have become aware of mahou shoujo, and that's a good thing.

Rabi senses the others approaching, then tells Urara that they can do introductions and head to a store to chat. Rabi then asks what was it that Urara wanted to talk about so much. Urara tells her she wants to know about those two mahou shoujo who saved her originally.

4-5

Urara: "Cause I got saved by those mahou shoujo and ran away, but I came back...

At a cafe, the trio explain what happened to those girls. Urara asks if it's true, and asks if they're lying about becoming witches. Rabi still isn't sure herself. Asahi says they only just learned the truth that same day Urara was saved. Sasha tells her no matter what, no matter how much trouble you're in, don't ever become a mahou shoujo. If you take Kyubey's word, your fate is sealed. Urara understands, and hates how awful this sounds. Asahi tells Urara that she understands if she hates them, as they're the ones who hold this curse. Urara tells her she's wrong, and that it's an unfair price they've had to pay.

Rabi mentions this is why they told her about them, because they want the world to know so they can be comforted and supported. Urara assures her that she's not going to sit by and watch after they've saved her. She'll help any way she can. Sasha tells her she's already helped them. It's thanks to Urara and her show that students are starting to learn about them. Rabi is grateful to her and the influence media holds. Asahi even mentions that she told a friend yesterday about herself, someone who had also seen the show. In fact, he accepted her and was kind about it. Urara is surprised that this of all things was a way she helped them.

Sasha brings up that amongst all the mahou shoujo in their group chat, many of them are starting to talk about revealing themselves as well. The part about them becoming witches doesn't get talked about a lot since it's still a touchy subject, but they're still reaching out to people they trust about mahou shoujo and witches.

Urara tells them this is their chance to tell all of Yukuni about them. She's going to be up on stage for the festival and got time booked for an outside episode of Night Fun Homeroom, so she can introduce the three of them as guests and talk about mahou shoujo. It'll probably make Kurara mad, but it's their chance to ascend from urban legends! The trio think it's a risk, but Urara and Sasha usher them to think about what to say, as there's not much time left until the festival. Rabi agrees to it; they need do this correctly otherwise it will create confusion. The trio tell Urara that they'll do it.

4-6

Urara: "I'm so glad I did the show. I can give back a little!"

At home, Rabi is thinking to herself and speaking to her late father. She's sure letting people know is the right thing to do. She remembers all he would read were hard philosophy books, but sometimes he would tell her what they were about. She remembers one such book being on the subject of suffering. "People feel growth by overcoming things. When we feel powerful, we're happy." She believes is what it said. She doesn't like the idea of happiness coming from power, but understands how overcoming something gives confidence.

She's following the fate that mahou shoujo have been given, suffering without anyone knowing. However, if she can overcome the wall of being known, she's certain she too will become happy. She steps outside, ready to go to the Yukuni All-star festival and get across that wall.

Boss 4

Urara: "I'm spreading the knowledge of mahou shoujo. My show's doing something so meaningful."

Chapter 5: Snipe

5-1

We begin with an overview of places in Yukuni while the All-star Festival commercial plays again. Sasha can't believe it's finally here. Her teacher asks her group if they're ready for the performance, and they all say yes. He tells them there's still time until they begin, so they're free to go check out the festival so they're not nervous. Their next meet is in 30 minutes. He then asks Sasha if she's feeling better now. She says she is, and will be ready for her solo today.

Rabi's grandfather (or an old man from the inn?) asks her if she received the pamphlets to hand out yet. She tells him the proprietress of the Lucky Ryokan just left to go get them. Her mother asks her if she's stocked all the vegetables, saying these are the vegetables that cured her, so she hopes people will take the time to learn about them. She tells Rabi that she's sure her grandfather and father will be proud. Shirogane then comes to greet her senpai.

Asahi's stall is fully prepared as Kuroda stops by to ask how it's going. She tells him it's all ready, and offers him some meat. Kuroda says he's had rabbit and deer before so he's good. Haitani comes by to tell Kuroda she needs help. She tells him to go on ahead as she needs to talk to Miura for a second, so he leaves first.

Haitani tells Asahi that she's finished the interview article and wanted to thank her again for the help. Asahi humbly tells her there's no need to thank her again, and Haitani says she likes that about her. She then says there's one more thing, and it's about Kuroda: she thinks Kuroda is about to confess to her. Asahi shutters that she figured it out, prompting Haitani to ask if she's okay. Haitani says she'll probably go along with whatever he has planned as long as he's not weird about it, but isn't sure if she wants to go out with him. She says that when other girls get with a guy they end up distancing from their friends, and she wants to continue to be Miura's friend. Asahi tells her she wouldn't hate someone just because of distance, so she should accept Kuroda.

Urara and Kurara are on stage, ready to countdown to the start of the show. Everyone counts down from five, kicking off the Yukuni All-star Festival!

Alexandra: "Night Fun Homeroom is up on stage, so I can calm my nerves♪"

5-2

Asahi runs into Himuro, who is wandering the festival with Shirogane. They exchange friendly introductions, and Asahi tells them she's on her way to see the executive committee's exhibit, offering them to join her. Rabi tells her she's never had interest in anything, so this is good. Asahi comments that that's a blunt way of putting it.

Rabi and Shirogane are now going over the culture and performing arts of Yukuni's hot spring inns. Shirogane seems genuinely interested in it. Asahi explains to her that those who live in the mountains of Yukuni tend to do hunting or forest work, but some families, including her own, do both. Shirogane points over to an article about the legend of Heike, and Asahi tells her that it's from her. She isn't sure if the legend is real or not, but she did find that monument.

Shirogane then begins reading a quote from the article, that research results may provide further evidence into whether it's real. She utters out the words "...Proof of existence." She begins frowning, saying that it's the same as being unseen, just like mahou shoujo. Rabi has to explain to Asahi that Shirogane is the one who she revealed her identity to. Shirogane tells Asahi that she knows about the trio, and offers to help any way she can. She may not have friends, but she also has no boundaries.

Asahi asks Shirogane why she chose to believe Himuro-dono. Shirogane recites Rabi's quote from the rooftop, though making one change to it: "Empty beings like ourselves who live without recognition preserve ourselves by being seen by many." She explains to a confused Asahi that Himuro-senpai told her that, and is the one who preserves her as an individual. She doesn't know how to deny the one who proves her existence. Asahi asks her if this means she trusts Himuro-dono no matter what. Shirogane replies that she does, even with knowing what she will become at the end of a mahou shoujo's life. Rabi tells Asahi that they shouldn't use Shirogane as a method to prove their existence to the world, as Shirogane has an undying friendship to her that would skew public perception. Asahi agrees, believing they should just stick to their current plan. It's about time for Kurisu to sing up on stage, so they get moving.

Asahi: "Hmm...Does she take after Himuro-dono? Shirogane-dono is also quite the mysterious type..."

5-3

Alexandra let's out a big sigh of relief, saying she was so nervous up there. Asahi reassures her she sang beautifully. Rabi too was surprised at how strong a voice can be with practice, and preferred her solo over the rest of the choir. Sasha kyaa~s in delight, thanking them for the embarrassing kind words.

Urara and Kurara are back up on stage, announcing that things are halfway done, but coming up next is the director of Yukuni's culture museum speaking with a scholar of folklore. Afterwards is the duo with their diabolo performance, followed by a special Night Fun Homeroom. On this episode they'll be having guests on, which Kurara guesses correctly, is featuring mahou shoujo that have been speaking out to students in Yukuni. Urara hopes that everyone won't miss this grand moment where an urban legend becomes reality. Later they'll be announcing content ranking votes, etc. And without further delay, let's have our two distinguishes senseis make their appearance!

The museum director appears first, saying they may have met him on a field trip before. Next is Satomi Tasuke, who was invited here for a talk today by the director when he found out he was visiting. Rabi's eyes go wide. Shirogane asks her if something's wrong, but Rabi says it's nothing, he just looks a little like an acquaintance.

Suddenly the trio feel a witch's reaction. What's more, it's the witches of the two girls they saw. The trio begin asking for help and preparing to fight.

Rabi: "Since so many people have gathered here today, we must be careful..."

5-4

Alexandra texts the group chat, announcing two surviving witches have been detected at the Yukuni All-star Festival, and they're growing stronger. There's 3 of them there, but they would like to reduce damage as much as possible, so they would like any help possible. One person replies that her and another are nearby. Another says she's too busy within the Festival to help, but she's sure those two will be enough. Sasha says out loud they can't afford to wait for those 2 for backup. Rabi tells them they'll just have to go on ahead and make it a 2 part assault.

They arrive at one barrier, but Asahi finds that one of the witches moved on. Sasha tells them she'll hold off this one while they go find the other. Rabi senses the other witch is still close, and tells Kurisu since she's support, she should stick with someone. Asahi volunteers to solo this witch while they split.

Asahi: "Well, I opened my big mouth, but can I actually do this alone?"

5-5

Urara: "It's almost time for our mahou shoujo's turn. I'm getting kinda excited..."

Urara and Kurara thank the two for the wonderful chat. Kurara didn't even know what folklore was all about, but now she's interested. Tasuke is also glad he got to spend time talking to so many people. Kuroda is more happy that they talked about the exhibit they made than the folklore talk.

Kuroda and Haitani praise each other and gives thanks. Kuroda tries to put Haitani up on a pedestal, but she says she's glad the two of them worked so hard on it before and after class, so it was all equal effort, right? Kuroda disagrees. She's cared for him ever since he lost his mother in the avalanche, she's the one who invited him to the committee, so she's been working extra hard to keep him cheered up. Haitani tells him that she likes him, so she wanted to be his support.

Meanwhile, Asahi is up against the first witch. It's chasing after a dagger Asahi imbued with her magic, distracting it so she can land a bullet in it safely. It begins going after Asahi. She tries to keep calm, telling herself a trapped animal is a shot animal. She knows the witch is dying and is suffering, so the only thing left to do is put her out of her misery. Just one more to go!

Inside the other barrier, Sasha is weakening the witch with her music, leaving it vulnerable for Rabi. Rabi thinks to herself that this will save the girl. The girl who had hope as a mahou shoujo, who had purpose in fighting witches. She will free this girl from the curse she suffers from. She strikes, but it wasn't enough to finish the witch. It counterattacks, hitting Rabi and fleeing the scene. Sasha is surprised it could still move even after being affected by her magic. It must have gotten too strong from staying alive this long. It's leaving the Festival grounds, but they still have to go after it.

5-6

Rabi: "To be this tough already... I didn't expect such an incredibly dangerous opponent..."

Asahi contacts them through telepathy, finding out the witch has taken off. They're going to meet up with the other 2 girls soon, so the 4 of them should be able to handle it. Asahi says she'll head back to the festival as a precaution. Rabi leaves Asahi to the communication so they can concentrate on locating the witch, as it's moving fast.

They catch up to it finally, but it seems almost as if it's hiding. Rabi notices the witch has a clear line of sight of the festival from here. Sasha senses two mahou shoujo approaching, most likely the two she contacted. Rabi tells her they'll go in first and they can provide backup.

Asahi is rushing to get back to the festival, but hears a sudden explosion and screams from the crowds at the festival grounds. Urara is up on the stage, screaming what the hell just happened!? Asahi is wondering the same thing as she stares on. Urara tells her a truck just drove through. She thought it was on fire when it suddenly exploded. Asahi can only guess this means they didn't make it in time to stop the witch. She tries to explain to Urara that there were 2 witches, but Himuro-dono and Sasha-dono went off to defeat the 2nd one, except it got away from them. Urara asks if this explosion was from the witch then. Asahi can't say for sure, but there is one thing she can say... She knows these witches were the two girls who saved Urara...

Urara asks if this means they've been in Yukuni this entire time. Asahi thought they had been defeated or escaped by now, but... Kuroda yells out is this really happening!? Haitani is on the ground with metal piercing through her chest. Asahi shakily tells him she can use her magic to try to get it out, but Kuroda tells her it's too late. Haitani is already gone. He yells at Asahi, asking her why she killed Haitani. She tells him she was trying to kill the witch! Kuroda repeats what she had told him: mahou shoujo are witches. And on top of that, she's sitting here worrying if her "pals" managed to escape or not. He tells her that she's the one who caused the avalanche, and she's the one who killed everyone at the festival. It's all their fault!

Asahi tries to get him to calm down and talk this out, but he yells at her to shut up. he declares that he'll hold onto this grudge against them for the rest of his life, for taking both her mother and Haitani away from him. He'll kill all of them...

That night, Rabi can only apologize for making Asahi suffer through her failure. Asahi is equally ashamed of herself for letting all those lives disappear. Asahi understands the witch just became too strong for them, but being misunderstood by a friend is incredibly hard for her. Urara thinks the only thing they can do now is slowly work to clear up this misunderstanding. She's just glad there weren't people nearby to overhear what was said. Asahi, however, feels different...

Asahi: "I have this horrible feeling, as if zeroed in on by something of unknown nature..."

Boss 5

Asahi: "It feels as if I was shot at the most opportune time..."

Challenge 1

Urara: "Night Fun Homeroom's about to begin!"

Challenge 2

Urara: "Our opening talk will be about Urara and Kurara's everyday life."

Challenge 3

Urara: "I started up the mahou shoujo corner without askin'."

Challenge 4

Urara: "I do like Kurara and all, but she's always kinda cold to me."

Part 2

TBA