The Beginning Story: Draft 0: Difference between revisions

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==Episode 6: This Just Isn't Right==
==Episode 6: This Just Isn't Right==
Conflict between magical girls has begun.  A bitter battle for ideology and territory... Kyouko and Sayaka lock in brutal struggle.  Yet with Homura's interference, the battle temporarily abates.  Both combatants swallow their anger and retreat.


Homura wants to stop the battle-worn Sayaka from continual action as a magical girl, but Sayaka refuses to listen, even to Madoka.
Homura reveals to Kyouko the [[Walpurgisnacht]]'s arrival in two-weeks time.  They agree to seek battle with the strongest Witch together.  Afterwards, Madoka discusses Sayaka's circumstance with her mom.  Junko gently supports Madoka. 
That night, Sayaka watches the cured Kyousuke with a renewal sense of happiness.  Kyouko reappears to provoke Sayaka in her happy moment.  Another stand off.  Madoka hurries to Sayaka's side, and suddenly snatches Sayaka's Soul Gem.
This is when... Madoka learns the truth about magical girls.
===Part B===
====School Rooftop====
Lunch break, next day.  Sayaka and Homura faces each other, alone.
Sayaka: <u>So what do you want?</u>
Homura: <u>You to avoid action in these two weeks.</u>
Sayaka: <u>Why?</u>
Homura: <u>I don't want any confrontation between you and Kyouko.</u>
Sayaka snorts in disgust.
Sayaka: <u>Heh, so you teamed up with that.  Just as expected...</u>
Homura remains poker-faced.
Homura: <u>Her strength is necessary to confront a coming crisis.  Until then, I'll like you to allow me the initiative in witch hunts.</u>
Sayaka: <u>So you can harvest Grief Seeds without interference?</u>
Sayaka answers coldly.  She is visibly angry.
Sayaka: <u>If I am an eyesore, just come at me, both at once.  I won't try to run or escape.  I'll face you head on.</u>
Homura: <u>Miki Sayaka.  Confronting you will only hurt Madoka.</u>
Sayaka: <u>Ah, that's right... You don't want any more rivals.</u>
Homura realizes Sayaka will not budge. A tinge of sadness in her voice.
Homura: <u>...Please, think rationally.  If you persist, the one that's hurt the most will be Kaname-san.</u>
Sayaka: <u>This has nothing to do with Madoka!</u>
This only makes Sayaka more aggravated.
Sayaka: <u>I am just a idiot, constantly fooled by sly-tongued people like you... But even I can tell from your actions, that you think of nobody but yourself.  Everyone around you are merely tools in your eyes, isn't it?</u>
Homura: <u>...This is for your own good.</u>
Sayaka: <u>You always have this attitude, like everyone are beneath you.</u>
Sayaka refuses to see the point.  She sneers at Homura with hostility.
Sayaka: <u>Even if I don't have a chance, I won't let you get away with this... I'll protect this city.</u>
With her back towards Homura, Sayaka leaves the rooftop.
Left behind, Homura stares afar, troubled.
====Madoka Room====
Light's on.  Madoka lies on her bed, staring at her ceiling, unable to sleep.
Sound of the gate opening from below.  Working overtime on the weekend again, Junko finally returns after leaving in the morning.  Sound of the shower.  After some hesitation, Madoka leaves her bed.
====Kaname Kitchen====
A note left on the kitchen table -- "Must be tired.  There's potato salad in the fridge."
Junko wears a bathrobe, holding the potato salad, eating the meal alone.  Madoka walks over, in her pajamas and holding a nightgown.
Junko: Can't sleep?
Maodka: No... Can we talk?
Junko nods.  Madoka grabs her cup and some juice from the kitchen.  She pours herself a cup of juice.  Junko takes some ice cubes from the freezer.  The two raise a toast, as they always have.
Madoka takes a sip of her cup and start speaking.
Madoka:  A friend of mine is in a tough situation... What she's doing and saying probably isn't wrong... But the more she tries to do what's right, the worse it gets...
Junko:  That happens a lot.
Junko responds without hesitation.
Junko:  It sucks, but you can't expect a happy ending just by doing what's right all the time.  Actually, the more people get stubborn and insist that they're in the right, the farther away happiness gets...
Madoka:  It's not fair if you can't be happy even though you're not doing the wrong things.
Junko:  Yeah.
Madoka:  What do you think I should do?
Junko stares at her glass for a moment.
Junko:  ...That's not a problem that can be solved by someone not involved.
Madoka:  ....
Madoka looks at Junko, waiting for her to continue.  Junko knows that her girl doesn't understand.  She sighs and continue.
Junko:  Do you want to solve this, even if it's not the nicest way to do it?
Madoka:  Yeah.
Junko:  All you have to do is make a mistake for her.
Junko stirs her glass.  The ice and alcohol melt together.
Junko:  Somebody has to be in the wrong to balance out her need to be in the right.
Madoka:  Do something wrong?
Junko:  Tell a white lie, or run away from something scary.  Sometimes you realize that was actually the best choice in the end.  Sometimes when you hit a dead end with no real alternatives, making a big mistake is an option.
Madoka:  But do you think she'll understand that I'm doing it for her own good?
Junko:  She may or may not. Especially at first.  I told you it might not be the nicest way to do it.  But would you rather give up on her, or give her the wrong idea about you?
Madoka:  ...
Madoka becomes distressed.  Junko takes another sip, smiling gently.
Junko:  Madoka, you grew up to be a good girl.  You don't lie, and you don't do anything bad.  You're always trying hard to do what is right.  You're already a wonderful child.  That's why you should start learning how to make mistakes before you grow up.
Madoka:  Learning how to make mistakes?
Junko:  You recover from injury faster when you're young.  If you learn how to fall down now, it'll be easier for you later on...  When you get older, making mistakes gets harder.  The more things you're responsible for, the less mistakes you can make.
Madoka:  I see...
Madoka drinks her juice, as she digests Junko's words.
Madoka:  Isn't that hard?
Junko:  Being an adult is hard for everybody.  That's why they let you drink.
Junko laughs at her joke.  Madoka joins in too.
Madoka:  I want to grow up and drink with you.
Junko:  Hurry up and get older. As difficult as it is, it's fun being an adult.
====Kyousuke Hospital Room====
Evening.  Sayaka visits, bringing a present with her as usual.
But Kyousuke's bed is empty.  Everything has been cleared out.
Sayaka:  <u>...Eh?</u>
Sayaka feels lost.  Nurse A sees her from behind.
Nurse A:  Oh, Kamijou-san was released from the hospital yesterday.
Sayaka:  <u>Yes, that's right.</u>
Nurse A:  His rehabilitation was going well, so his schedule was moved up.
Sayaka:  I-I see.
Sayaka smiles cordially to fudge the situation.
====Kamijou Household Front====
Night.  Sayaka has walked here from the hospital.  She stands in front of the doorway.
Sayaka hesitate over the doorbell.  Lingering, a faint sound of violin melody can be heard.
Kyousuke focusing in practice.
Sayaka:  ...
The melody reaches Sayaka's ears.  Just by listening, she can sense Kyousuke's focus.
Sayaka doesn't wish to disturb him.  A lonely smile.  She lowers the hand from the doorbell. 
Sayaka is about to leave, but stop suddenly with a tense expression.
In front of Sayaka, Kyouko walks under a street light's from the darkness.  Chewing on a churro in her hand.
Kyouko:  --Going home without even seeing him?  You've been chasing him around all day.
Sayaka:  You...
Kyouko:  I know all about it. The little rich boy who lives here, right?  The one you made a contract with Kyubey for.  Christ.  You wasted your only chance for a miracle on something that stupid?
Sayaka:  What would you know?!
Kyouko:  A hell of a lot more than you, dummy.  Magic is only supposed to be used to grant wishes for yourself.  No good comes out of using it for someone else.  --Didn't Tomoe Mami even teach you that much?
Sayaka:  <u>....Ha.</u>
Sayaka recalls Mami with the same advice.  She bites her tongue.
Kyouko:  There are better ways of making a guy you love fall for you.  After all, you've got all that magic now.
Sayaka:  Wh-What?
Kyouko:  Just go in there and break his hands and legs so bad, he'll never be able to use them again.  Make him so helpless that he won't be able to do anything without you.  Do that, and he'll be yours and yours alone.  Both his body and his heart.
Sayaka:  <u>...Ha.</u>
Kyouko:  If you don't have the guts, then I could do it for you.  Just think of it as a favor to my fellow magical girl.  It's no sweat.
Sayaka:  ...I will...never forgive you...I'll take you down this time...
Sayaka rages with a murderous intent.  Kyouko smiles with contempt.
Kyouko:  Let's take this some place else, then.  We wouldn't want to attract a crowd.
====Kaname Home - Madoka Room====
Madoka doing homework at her desk.
But She can't focus at all.  Her thoughts is elsewhere.  In her mind replays the conversation with Junko from last night.
Junko:  (Voice Over) Somebody has to be in the wrong to balance out her need to be in the right.
Madoka:  But how could I...
Kyubey:  Madoka...Madoka!
Madoka turns around and immediately sees Kyubey by the window.
Kyubey:  Hurry! Sayaka's in trouble!  Follow me!
====Overpass above a Freeway====
A overpass across a 4-lane freeway.  Underneath the bridge are crowded freeway traffic, but above is a complete blind-spot.  No one can will notice from below.
Sayaka and Kyouko stand-off not far from each other.  Kyouko is still eating her churro.
Kyouko:  We won't have to hold back here.  It's party time.
Kyouko transforms as a magical girl.  Sayaka places her Soul Gem on her palm.
Sayaka and Kyubey races to the location.
Madoka:  Wait!  Sayaka-chan!
Sayaka:  M-Madoka...
Sayaka is perplex for a moment, but immediately collects her fighting spirit.
Sayaka:  Don't get in the way.  This isn't even any of your business.
Madoka:  No, this is definitely wrong!
Watching Madoka desperately tries to stop Sayaka, Kyouko glares coldly.
Kyouko:  Hmph. Annoying jerks sure attract annoying friends.
Homura:  I wonder what sort of friends you have, then.
Homura's habit of suddenly appearing behind her makes Kyouko uncomfortable.
Kyouko:  <u>Damn.</u>
Homura:  This isn't what we agreed on.  I thought I told you to keep your hands off of Miki Sayaka.
Kyouko:  Your method wouldn't get the message across!  She's not backing down either way.
Homura:  Then...
Homura transforms.
Homura:  I'll take her on.  Stay out of it.
Kyouko:  <u>Pssh.</u>
Kyouko raises the very last bit of her churro.
Kyouko:  You've got until I finish eating this.
Homura:  That's plenty of time.
Sayaka hears the conversation between Kyouko and Homura, which pisses her off even more.
Sayaka:  Don't underestimate me!
Sayaka lifts her Soul Gem to transform.
Can no longer stand by and do nothing, Madoka suddenly has an idea.
Madoka:  Sayaka-chan, I'm sorry!
Madoka suddenly snatches Sayaka's Soul Gem from her hand.
Sayaka:  <u>Wha...!?
Kyouko and Homura are just as stunned as Sayaka.
Madoka immediately throws the Soul Gem into the traffic below.
It falls on top of a truck passing by, instantly taken away.
Homura:  <u>--Shit!</u>
Homura turns pale.  Suddenly (actually time control, but appears to) teleports, she chases behind the truck.
Sayaka:  Madoka, what the hell?!
Madoka:  But if I hadn't...
Sayaka steps toward Madoka, but suddenly lost her strength and collapse into Madoka's arms.
Madoka:  ...Sayaka-chan?
Madoka is dumbstruck by what happened.
Sayaka lays motionless, her eyes empty of life.
Kyubey:  That was bad, Madoka.
Seemingly surprised, Kyubey shakes its head.
Kyubey:  How could you just throw\N away your friend like that?  Are you crazy?
Madoka:  What... What are you saying?
Kyouko walks solemnly forward.  With a sudden lunge, she lifts Sayaka up by her neck roughly.
Madoka hastily attempts to stop her.
Madoka:  S-Stop it!
Kyouko:  What the hell is this...?
Kyouko faces Kyubey instead of Madoka, ask with outrage.
Kyouko:  She's dead!
Madoka is so startled by Kyouko's words that she can't react.
====Freeway====
Homura struggles to catch up to the vehicle carrying the Soul Gem.  She teleports, one after another (actually several time stops. She has been running nonstop).
====Overpass====
Sayaka's body remains motionless, neither breathing or heartbeats.
Madoka cannot comprehend the situation.
Madoka:  Sayaka-chan?  Hey, Sayaka-chan?  Wake up! Say something!
Madoka shakes Sayaka's shoulders repeatly, but Sayaka simply sway back and forth like a puppet.
Madoka:  What's wrong?  I don't want this to happen!  Sayaka-chan! 
As Madoka falls into hysteria, Kyouko also becomes irritated by the situation.
Kyouko:  What the hell is going on?  Hey...!
Kyubey:  You magical girls can only control your bodies from 100 meters away, at most.
Only Kyubey remains calm in such a situation.
Kyouko:  100 meters?! What the hell does that mean?
Kyubey:  You normally carry them with you, so accidents like this are rare.
Madoka:  What are you saying, Kyubey?  Save her! Don't let Sayaka-chan die!
Kyubey:  Madoka, that isn't Sayaka.  It's just an empty shell. 
Madoka:  <u>Eeh...?</u>
Madoka is at a loss.
Kyubey:  You just threw Sayaka away.
Kyouko:  Wh-what...?
A sudden realization comes to her, Kyouko stares at her Soul Gem in shock.
Kyouko:  <u>What...did you say</u>
====Freeway====
Homura is still chasing the truck.
She finally grabs onto to the truck bed.
Kyubey: (Off Screen) I couldn't just ask you to fight witches with a fragile human body. 
Homura lunges at Sayaka's Soul Gem that rests besides a pallet.  She breaths a sigh of relief.
Kyubey:  (Off Screen) A magical girl's old body is nothing more than a piece of external hardware.  Your actual soul is given a much safer, compact form that is capable of controlling magic much more efficiently.
====Overpass====
Kyubey continue to explain in a neutral fashion, in front of Madoka's and Kyouko's faces of horror.
Kyubey:  It's part of my job, when I complete a magical girl's contract.  I extract your souls and turn them into Soul Gems.
Kyouko:  What the hell did you do to us?
In anger, Kyouko seizes at Kyubey by its ears.
Kyouko:  You bastard! You basically turned us into zombies!
Kyubey:  Isn't it more convenient?  Even if your heart is torn to shreds, or you lose every drop of blood, your body can be fixed in no time with magical healing.  You're basically invincible, provided that your Soul Gem is intact.  Isn't that far more advantageous than fighting with a human body full of vital organs?
Madoka:  That's terrible... That's too awful.
No a hint of apology from Kyubey, only confusion.
Kyubey:  You're all the same.  You always react like this when you're told what's really going on.  I don't get it at all.  Why are humans so touchy about the placement of their souls?
Kyouko:  ...Ugh.
Kyouko trembles in anger.  Madoka bust into tears, holding Sayaka's body tightly.
Homura returns.  She returns Sayaka's Soul Gem to Sayaka's hand.
In a moment, Sayaka jolts suddenly and opens her eyes.
Sayaka:  ..Ah...
Sayaka, dazed and confused, looks around.
Sayaka: ...What?  What's wrong?
===Episode 6 - Draft 0 Investigation===
--Can Kyubey detect it when Homura use magic?
Gen: I rewrote this entire section in ''Draft 0''.  The sequence where, "Homura request Sayaka to avoid conflict with Kyouko, and Sayaka relies this city is mine" was cut.  I also adjusted the last words simply, so the whole truth regarding Soul Gems was revealed in this episode.


==Episode 7: Can You Face Your True Feelings?==
==Episode 7: Can You Face Your True Feelings?==

Revision as of 08:02, 19 January 2013

Revisiting Draft 0

"[[Kyubey|Make a contract with me, and become a magical girl!" This was the start of everything. The script of Madoka Magica had undergone numerous revisions before finalizing. In this chapter, we highlighted sections from Draft 0 as originally delivered by the scriptwriter Gen Urobuchi, to demonstrate what was changed. We also asked Gen for the reasons for these changes.

The state of completeness of Draft 0 was simply astonishing. Nearly every character had made their debut, and all the scenes written. From Draft 0 to Final Script, it's hard to pinpoint any significant changes beyond general editing.

Everything were set in place from the start - Kaname Madoka's tenacity, Akemi Homura's drive and motivation, Miki Sayaka's fragility, Sakura Kyouko's strength, and Tomoe Mami's innocence. Gen had crafted a scenario rich in philosophy, yet delicate in his description of the dreams and anguish of magical girls. Reading Draft 0 allows us to truly appreciate the genius wordsmith that is Gen Urobuchi.

Episode 3: I'm Not Afraid of Anything Anymore

In exchange for fulfilling their wish, magical girls fight a constant battle against the Witches that curse the world. After learning these truths from Mami, Madoka and Sayaka find their resolve for becoming a magical girls shaken. What do they wish for? What shall they do after becoming magical girls? These thoughts brews on her mind as Sayaka visit her childhood friend Kyousuke, who remains bedridden in the hospital.

Amidst their worries, Madoka and Sayaka stumble upon a hatching Grief Seed right outside of the hospital. Along with the transformed Mami, they dive into the Barrier to attempt to subdue the Witch within.

In the Barrier, Madoka confesses her thoughts to Mami. Madoka wishes to become a magical girl to fight alongside Mami. Therefore, she doesn't need another wish to fulfill. Having battled in solitude for so long, Mami breaks down in tears and happily accepts her offer to form a magical girl duo.

Mami and the Witch begins battle at the depth of the barrier. No longer alone, Mami battles with a certain glee. Yet, only cruel fate awaits her...

Part A

Kyousuke Hospital Room

Kyousuke sits on a raised bed. Sayaka sits besides him on the visitor's chair. Sayaka: For you. The visiting Sayaka hands a violin CD to Kyousuke. Kyousuke's eyes widen by the surprise. Kyousuke: Wow, amazing... This is out-of-print! You can't even find this on the internet anymore! Sayaka: R-Really...? I just saw it in store on the way home, so I bought it. Other CD cases litter his bedside desk. Sayaka has bought all of them. Kyousuke: Thanks for all you've done. You're a genius when it comes to finding rare CDs. Sayaka: Haha, not really... I'm probably just lucky is all. Sayaka stammers in embarrassment. Kyousuke opens the case immediately and inserts the CD into his CD player. Kyousuke: This artist's performances really are incredible. Do you want to listen too, Sayaka? Kyousuke pops in an earbud, and hands the other to Sayaka. Sayaka: A-Are you sure...? Kyousuke: I'd really like to have you hear it from the speakers, but we're in a hospital, so... The headset is rather short, so Sayaka leans forward, closer to Kyousuke. Her embarrassment is now overwhelming. The music starts. Its beautiful melody helps to calm her racing heart. Sayaka losses herself within the beautiful melody. Memory from Sayaka's childhood. Kyousuke puts on a splendid performance in a violin concert. Sayaka watching him, mesmerized. Sayaka opens her eyes. She notices Kyousuke besides her, quietly weeping. Kyousuke clenches the bed with his feeble left hand. The surgery wound looks appalling. Unable to share his pain, Sayaka's heart sinks.

Park - Night (In Barrier)

Mami's finishing move fires. The Witch disappears with a scream of pain. Madoka and Sayaka watch on from the sideline. The Barrier dissipates. The surrounding returns back to a typical park. Mami cancels her transformation. Both bystanders breath a sigh of relieve. Sayaka: No matter how many times I seen it, you look so cool in battle, Mami-san! Mami: This isn't a magic show, you know. Don't forget that what we're doing is dangerous. Sayaka: Yes! Sayaka raises the bat she brought for protection. Kyubey runs around searching. Kyubey: Doesn't look like a Grief Seed dropped. Madoka: Eh, it didn't? Sayaka: We've been fighting nothing but duds lately. Mami: We can't ignore the familiars, though. Anyway, let's go. Mami, Sayaka, Madoka, and Kyubey walk in a row through the night park. Everything has returned to normal. Mami: So have you figured out what you want to wish for? Sayaka: What about you, Madoka? Madoka: No... Mami smiles helplessly at their trouble. Mami: Well, I guess it's hard to think of something when you're on the spot. Madoka: Mami-san, what did you wish for? Mami falls gloomy from Madoka's question. Madoka fidgets. Madoka: Oh, uh... You don't really have to tell me! Mami: No, it's fine. I don't need to hide it from you. Mami looks to a distance as memories comes back to her. Mami: In my case... Mami's memory. A major accident on a freeway. Dying, Mami is trapped beneath a wrecked car. Kyubey appears in front of Mami's extended hand. Mami: (Off Screen): -- I didn't have time to think about it. Returning to present. A park at night. The two followers is slightly shocked by Mami's memories. Mami: -- I don't really regret it. I think my current way of life is much better than having died back there. Mami: But you know, if you have the choice you should think it through. I want you to have the opportunity I didn't get. Sayaka makes up her mind and asks. Sayaka: Hey, Mami-san... does your wish have to be for yourself? Mami: Huh? Sayaka: Like hypothetically... Hypothetically, all right? Say there was someone who was worse off than me. Could I use my wish for them? Madoka: You mean... Kamijou-kun? Sayaka: D-Didn't I say hypothetically?! Gosh! Kyubey nods calmly as Sayaka panics. Kyubey: Whoever makes the contract doesn't necessarily need to be the target for the wish. It's not like it hasn't happened before, either. Mami: I can't say I like the idea, though. Mami speaks her objection in a stern voice. Mami: If you're going to grant a wish for someone else, then it's vital that you know what it is you're wishing for. --Miki-san, do you want his wish to come true, or do you want to be the person who made his wish come true? Sayaka: .... Sayaka falls silent, troubled by Mami's words. Madoka panics. Madoka: Mami-san... Mami: They might sound the same, but they're completely different. Sayaka: That's a harsh way of putting it. Mami: I'm sorry, but it has to be said now. If you went ahead without realizing that, I'm sure you'd regret it later. Sayaka: ... Sayaka thinks in silence briefly. She lets out a heavy sigh and nods. Sayaka: You're right. I was being a little too naïve. Sorry about that. Sayaka's straightforward apology calms Madoka. A smile returns to Mami. Mami: This is pretty difficult to deal with, isn't it? You shouldn't rush your decision. Kyubey: The sooner the better for me, though. Mami knocks Kyubey lightly the head. Mami: That won't do. Girls hate guys who pressure them. Mami and Sayaka share a laugh. Madoka joins in, but her heart is full of complex feelings.

Madoka Room

Bedtime, Madoka lies awake on her bed in her pajamas. Kyubey sits next to her. Madoka recalls the conversation with Sayaka and Mami in the park. She sighs. Madoka: ...It really isn't that simple, is it...? Kyubey: I'm not in a position to pressure you into it. Suggestions are against the rules too. Madoka: I guess just wishing to become a magical girl wouldn't work, huh...? Madoka stares at the costume designs on her notebook. She recalls the beauty of Mami in battle, trying to imagine herself alongside Mami. Kyubey: Madoka, do you just thirst for power? Madoka: No, that's not what I mean... Or maybe I do... I mean, I'm slow, and I'm not good at anything. So if I could be someone cool and wonderful like Mami-san, then that in itself would be enough to make me happy... Kyubey: You could become a much more powerful magical girl than Mami. Madoka: Huh? The unexpected news surprises Madoka. Kyubey: The sort of wish you make factors into it as well, but even I can't even imagine how large a Soul Gem you might produce. I've never met a girl with such potential before. Madoka: Haha... What are you saying? Come on. You're joking, right? Kyubey: No— Door knock. Tomohisa: Madoka, are you awake? Madoka: Yeah, what's wrong? Tomohisa: Mama is home... can you come help?


Kaname Home - Doorstep

Junko lies wasted at the doorstep. Madoka: Again? ...Jeez. Madoka shrugs in disbelief. Junko: W-Water... Already prepared, Tomohisa hands Junko a cup of water. Tomohisa: Let's get her to bed first and change her dress. Come, you hold that side. Madoka and Tomohisa carry Junko between them to her bedroom. Junko: Eh...Damn you, baldy!....If you want to drink, drink by your damn self...! Don't make me pull that toupee off! Junko mumbles drunken words in complaint.


Parent Bedroom

Junko now rests peacefully under cover. Madoka and Tomohisa share a sigh of relief from a job well done. Tomohisa: Thank you. Should I make some hot chocolate? Madoka: Yeah, sure.

Kitchen

In pajamas and nightgowns, Madoka and Tomohisa sit across from each other, drinking hot chocolate. Madoka: Mom doesn't drink that much at home... Why does she always get so drunk outside? Thank god, she made it back safely. Tomohisa: Drinking is part of the job too. Like overtime, you can't just push it off. Madoka: Doesn't she get tired of these things... Tomohisa: Sometimes, but sometimes work feels great too. Madoka doesn't understand. She props her cheeks on her hands. Madoka: I wonder why Mom loves her job so much. Working at that company wasn't really her dream, was it? Tomohisa: Hm... it's not that she loves her job as much as she loves a challenge. Madoka: ...? Tomohisa: I'm sure there are tough and painful times for her, but the subsequent feeling of accomplishment is her greatest joy. Because of this, even the difficult work now can be worthwhile. Madoka: Mama... Is she satisfied with where she is? Tomohisa: She might not have wished to work where she does now, but she's still living her ideal way of life. Some dreams can come true like that. Madoka: So someone's dream can be their way of life? Tomohisa: I'm sure opinions differ, but I really like that about your mom. I can respect that and I take pride in it. Don't you think she's wonderful too? Madoka: Yeah. Seeing her dad's smile, Madoka relaxes as well.

School - Night

Mami stands nonchalant in the middle of a courtyard. Homura emerges from the darkness in front of her. The two faces each other at a distance. Mami: Why do you call me out at this hour? Homura: Kaname Madoka and Miki Sayaka... How long do you plan to drag those two along for? Homura speaks provocatively, a face of apathy. Homura: You know you're putting innocent civilians in danger, don't you? Mami: They've been chosen by Kyubey. They're no longer innocent civilians. Homura: Chosen but not yet contracted, you should not be interfering with their decision. You're leading them toward becoming magical girls. Mami: And I take it you don't like that. Homura: That's right. It's a nuisance... Especially in the case of Kaname Madoka. Mami has figured out Homura's intentions (actually a misunderstanding) and narrows her eyes. Mami: I see. So you've noticed her potential as well. Homura suddenly turns serious. Homura: I cannot, under any circumstances, allow her to make a contract. Mami: Is it because you're afraid that anyone stronger will get in your way? That's the way a bullied child thinks, you know. Enraged, Homura closes her eyes briefly to calm herself down. Homura: ... One magic girl is sufficient for this city. Two are too many already. Mami: I disagree, but that makes a lot of sense. Homura: You are not fit for battle. Why not hold back a bit. Mami: Speak for yourself. I have been protecting this city, and I'll protect this city! A tense atmosphere between the two, ready to explode into violence. Mami: ...I can see that we'll not be getting along Homura: I have no reason to fight you, but... Mami: In that case, make sure we never meet again. Mami can see that Homura does not intent to make a move. Mami turns around. Mami: I'm sure tonight's the last time we'll resolve this peacefully. Mami leaves after saying her line. Homura stands motionless. Deep in thought, Homura bites her lips. Homura: ...

Episode 3 - Draft 0 Investigation

-- After reading the full script, you can tell composition of this part changed a lot. Gen Episode 3 was tightly packed, so the Kyousuke Hospital Room sequence was moved to Episode 4.

-- [Familiar]] fights were not initially part of Draft 0. Was this setting added later on. Gen That's correct. Having a Grief Seed drop for every fight is bad for story development. Also, if all Witches come from magical girls, the numbers don't add up. As a result, I add natural growth by replication for the Witches into the setting. By that time, Witch designs had been finalized.

-- "Is it because you're afraid that anyone stronger will get in your way? That's the way a bullied child thinks, you know." In this famous scene, Mami-san unintentionally touched upon a soft spot in Homura's past. This sequence also seen some adjustments, and the location changed from the school to a road by the park. Gen Mami may had did it unintentionally, but to Homura it was very malicious (laughs).

-- Then, a problem with the scene where Mami was eaten by the Witch. The rumor within the fanbase was "This was Gen's writing! He made it this gruesome!" Gen I have heard of such rumors, but they're patently untrue! I wrote with every intent for avoiding excessive cruelty, because I don't want to see Aoki sensei's characters suffer either. I simply wished to avoid any ambiguity, to invoke "such a pity this character has died and would not come back" type of message. For example, if she was stabbed through the chest instead, maybe she may still live and can be revived later on. I wanted to avoid leaving such possibility. I also want people to understand that Mami did not lose due to her skill, but simply have faced her counter.

-- "Mami crumples into a heap, like a puppet without strings. (Actually, her head is gone, but it's not shown due to the camera angle)... Free again, the Witch's enormous body smothers her corpse, hiding it from view. Bone-crushing sound coming from that direction." Gen What I mean is, even though I wrote it, I didn't want to see it either.

Episode 6: This Just Isn't Right

Conflict between magical girls has begun. A bitter battle for ideology and territory... Kyouko and Sayaka lock in brutal struggle. Yet with Homura's interference, the battle temporarily abates. Both combatants swallow their anger and retreat.

Homura wants to stop the battle-worn Sayaka from continual action as a magical girl, but Sayaka refuses to listen, even to Madoka.

Homura reveals to Kyouko the Walpurgisnacht's arrival in two-weeks time. They agree to seek battle with the strongest Witch together. Afterwards, Madoka discusses Sayaka's circumstance with her mom. Junko gently supports Madoka.

That night, Sayaka watches the cured Kyousuke with a renewal sense of happiness. Kyouko reappears to provoke Sayaka in her happy moment. Another stand off. Madoka hurries to Sayaka's side, and suddenly snatches Sayaka's Soul Gem. This is when... Madoka learns the truth about magical girls.

Part B

School Rooftop

Lunch break, next day. Sayaka and Homura faces each other, alone. Sayaka: So what do you want? Homura: You to avoid action in these two weeks. Sayaka: Why? Homura: I don't want any confrontation between you and Kyouko. Sayaka snorts in disgust. Sayaka: Heh, so you teamed up with that. Just as expected... Homura remains poker-faced. Homura: Her strength is necessary to confront a coming crisis. Until then, I'll like you to allow me the initiative in witch hunts. Sayaka: So you can harvest Grief Seeds without interference? Sayaka answers coldly. She is visibly angry. Sayaka: If I am an eyesore, just come at me, both at once. I won't try to run or escape. I'll face you head on. Homura: Miki Sayaka. Confronting you will only hurt Madoka. Sayaka: Ah, that's right... You don't want any more rivals. Homura realizes Sayaka will not budge. A tinge of sadness in her voice. Homura: ...Please, think rationally. If you persist, the one that's hurt the most will be Kaname-san. Sayaka: This has nothing to do with Madoka! This only makes Sayaka more aggravated. Sayaka: I am just a idiot, constantly fooled by sly-tongued people like you... But even I can tell from your actions, that you think of nobody but yourself. Everyone around you are merely tools in your eyes, isn't it? Homura: ...This is for your own good. Sayaka: You always have this attitude, like everyone are beneath you. Sayaka refuses to see the point. She sneers at Homura with hostility. Sayaka: Even if I don't have a chance, I won't let you get away with this... I'll protect this city. With her back towards Homura, Sayaka leaves the rooftop. Left behind, Homura stares afar, troubled.


Madoka Room

Light's on. Madoka lies on her bed, staring at her ceiling, unable to sleep. Sound of the gate opening from below. Working overtime on the weekend again, Junko finally returns after leaving in the morning. Sound of the shower. After some hesitation, Madoka leaves her bed.

Kaname Kitchen

A note left on the kitchen table -- "Must be tired. There's potato salad in the fridge." Junko wears a bathrobe, holding the potato salad, eating the meal alone. Madoka walks over, in her pajamas and holding a nightgown. Junko: Can't sleep? Maodka: No... Can we talk? Junko nods. Madoka grabs her cup and some juice from the kitchen. She pours herself a cup of juice. Junko takes some ice cubes from the freezer. The two raise a toast, as they always have. Madoka takes a sip of her cup and start speaking. Madoka: A friend of mine is in a tough situation... What she's doing and saying probably isn't wrong... But the more she tries to do what's right, the worse it gets... Junko: That happens a lot. Junko responds without hesitation. Junko: It sucks, but you can't expect a happy ending just by doing what's right all the time. Actually, the more people get stubborn and insist that they're in the right, the farther away happiness gets... Madoka: It's not fair if you can't be happy even though you're not doing the wrong things. Junko: Yeah. Madoka: What do you think I should do? Junko stares at her glass for a moment. Junko: ...That's not a problem that can be solved by someone not involved. Madoka: .... Madoka looks at Junko, waiting for her to continue. Junko knows that her girl doesn't understand. She sighs and continue. Junko: Do you want to solve this, even if it's not the nicest way to do it? Madoka: Yeah. Junko: All you have to do is make a mistake for her. Junko stirs her glass. The ice and alcohol melt together. Junko: Somebody has to be in the wrong to balance out her need to be in the right. Madoka: Do something wrong? Junko: Tell a white lie, or run away from something scary. Sometimes you realize that was actually the best choice in the end. Sometimes when you hit a dead end with no real alternatives, making a big mistake is an option. Madoka: But do you think she'll understand that I'm doing it for her own good? Junko: She may or may not. Especially at first. I told you it might not be the nicest way to do it. But would you rather give up on her, or give her the wrong idea about you? Madoka: ... Madoka becomes distressed. Junko takes another sip, smiling gently. Junko: Madoka, you grew up to be a good girl. You don't lie, and you don't do anything bad. You're always trying hard to do what is right. You're already a wonderful child. That's why you should start learning how to make mistakes before you grow up. Madoka: Learning how to make mistakes? Junko: You recover from injury faster when you're young. If you learn how to fall down now, it'll be easier for you later on... When you get older, making mistakes gets harder. The more things you're responsible for, the less mistakes you can make. Madoka: I see... Madoka drinks her juice, as she digests Junko's words. Madoka: Isn't that hard? Junko: Being an adult is hard for everybody. That's why they let you drink. Junko laughs at her joke. Madoka joins in too. Madoka: I want to grow up and drink with you. Junko: Hurry up and get older. As difficult as it is, it's fun being an adult.

Kyousuke Hospital Room

Evening. Sayaka visits, bringing a present with her as usual. But Kyousuke's bed is empty. Everything has been cleared out. Sayaka: ...Eh? Sayaka feels lost. Nurse A sees her from behind. Nurse A: Oh, Kamijou-san was released from the hospital yesterday. Sayaka: Yes, that's right. Nurse A: His rehabilitation was going well, so his schedule was moved up. Sayaka: I-I see. Sayaka smiles cordially to fudge the situation.

Kamijou Household Front

Night. Sayaka has walked here from the hospital. She stands in front of the doorway. Sayaka hesitate over the doorbell. Lingering, a faint sound of violin melody can be heard. Kyousuke focusing in practice. Sayaka: ... The melody reaches Sayaka's ears. Just by listening, she can sense Kyousuke's focus. Sayaka doesn't wish to disturb him. A lonely smile. She lowers the hand from the doorbell. Sayaka is about to leave, but stop suddenly with a tense expression. In front of Sayaka, Kyouko walks under a street light's from the darkness. Chewing on a churro in her hand. Kyouko: --Going home without even seeing him? You've been chasing him around all day. Sayaka: You... Kyouko: I know all about it. The little rich boy who lives here, right? The one you made a contract with Kyubey for. Christ. You wasted your only chance for a miracle on something that stupid? Sayaka: What would you know?! Kyouko: A hell of a lot more than you, dummy. Magic is only supposed to be used to grant wishes for yourself. No good comes out of using it for someone else. --Didn't Tomoe Mami even teach you that much? Sayaka: ....Ha. Sayaka recalls Mami with the same advice. She bites her tongue. Kyouko: There are better ways of making a guy you love fall for you. After all, you've got all that magic now. Sayaka: Wh-What? Kyouko: Just go in there and break his hands and legs so bad, he'll never be able to use them again. Make him so helpless that he won't be able to do anything without you. Do that, and he'll be yours and yours alone. Both his body and his heart. Sayaka: ...Ha. Kyouko: If you don't have the guts, then I could do it for you. Just think of it as a favor to my fellow magical girl. It's no sweat. Sayaka: ...I will...never forgive you...I'll take you down this time... Sayaka rages with a murderous intent. Kyouko smiles with contempt. Kyouko: Let's take this some place else, then. We wouldn't want to attract a crowd.


Kaname Home - Madoka Room

Madoka doing homework at her desk. But She can't focus at all. Her thoughts is elsewhere. In her mind replays the conversation with Junko from last night. Junko: (Voice Over) Somebody has to be in the wrong to balance out her need to be in the right. Madoka: But how could I... Kyubey: Madoka...Madoka! Madoka turns around and immediately sees Kyubey by the window. Kyubey: Hurry! Sayaka's in trouble! Follow me!

Overpass above a Freeway

A overpass across a 4-lane freeway. Underneath the bridge are crowded freeway traffic, but above is a complete blind-spot. No one can will notice from below. Sayaka and Kyouko stand-off not far from each other. Kyouko is still eating her churro. Kyouko: We won't have to hold back here. It's party time. Kyouko transforms as a magical girl. Sayaka places her Soul Gem on her palm. Sayaka and Kyubey races to the location. Madoka: Wait! Sayaka-chan! Sayaka: M-Madoka... Sayaka is perplex for a moment, but immediately collects her fighting spirit. Sayaka: Don't get in the way. This isn't even any of your business. Madoka: No, this is definitely wrong! Watching Madoka desperately tries to stop Sayaka, Kyouko glares coldly. Kyouko: Hmph. Annoying jerks sure attract annoying friends. Homura: I wonder what sort of friends you have, then. Homura's habit of suddenly appearing behind her makes Kyouko uncomfortable. Kyouko: Damn. Homura: This isn't what we agreed on. I thought I told you to keep your hands off of Miki Sayaka. Kyouko: Your method wouldn't get the message across! She's not backing down either way. Homura: Then... Homura transforms. Homura: I'll take her on. Stay out of it. Kyouko: Pssh. Kyouko raises the very last bit of her churro. Kyouko: You've got until I finish eating this. Homura: That's plenty of time. Sayaka hears the conversation between Kyouko and Homura, which pisses her off even more. Sayaka: Don't underestimate me! Sayaka lifts her Soul Gem to transform. Can no longer stand by and do nothing, Madoka suddenly has an idea. Madoka: Sayaka-chan, I'm sorry! Madoka suddenly snatches Sayaka's Soul Gem from her hand. Sayaka: Wha...!? Kyouko and Homura are just as stunned as Sayaka. Madoka immediately throws the Soul Gem into the traffic below. It falls on top of a truck passing by, instantly taken away. Homura: --Shit! Homura turns pale. Suddenly (actually time control, but appears to) teleports, she chases behind the truck. Sayaka: Madoka, what the hell?! Madoka: But if I hadn't... Sayaka steps toward Madoka, but suddenly lost her strength and collapse into Madoka's arms. Madoka: ...Sayaka-chan? Madoka is dumbstruck by what happened. Sayaka lays motionless, her eyes empty of life. Kyubey: That was bad, Madoka. Seemingly surprised, Kyubey shakes its head. Kyubey: How could you just throw\N away your friend like that? Are you crazy? Madoka: What... What are you saying? Kyouko walks solemnly forward. With a sudden lunge, she lifts Sayaka up by her neck roughly. Madoka hastily attempts to stop her. Madoka: S-Stop it! Kyouko: What the hell is this...? Kyouko faces Kyubey instead of Madoka, ask with outrage. Kyouko: She's dead! Madoka is so startled by Kyouko's words that she can't react.

Freeway

Homura struggles to catch up to the vehicle carrying the Soul Gem. She teleports, one after another (actually several time stops. She has been running nonstop).

Overpass

Sayaka's body remains motionless, neither breathing or heartbeats. Madoka cannot comprehend the situation. Madoka: Sayaka-chan? Hey, Sayaka-chan? Wake up! Say something! Madoka shakes Sayaka's shoulders repeatly, but Sayaka simply sway back and forth like a puppet. Madoka: What's wrong? I don't want this to happen! Sayaka-chan! As Madoka falls into hysteria, Kyouko also becomes irritated by the situation. Kyouko: What the hell is going on? Hey...! Kyubey: You magical girls can only control your bodies from 100 meters away, at most. Only Kyubey remains calm in such a situation. Kyouko: 100 meters?! What the hell does that mean? Kyubey: You normally carry them with you, so accidents like this are rare. Madoka: What are you saying, Kyubey? Save her! Don't let Sayaka-chan die! Kyubey: Madoka, that isn't Sayaka. It's just an empty shell. Madoka: Eeh...? Madoka is at a loss. Kyubey: You just threw Sayaka away. Kyouko: Wh-what...? A sudden realization comes to her, Kyouko stares at her Soul Gem in shock. Kyouko: What...did you say

Freeway

Homura is still chasing the truck. She finally grabs onto to the truck bed. Kyubey: (Off Screen) I couldn't just ask you to fight witches with a fragile human body. Homura lunges at Sayaka's Soul Gem that rests besides a pallet. She breaths a sigh of relief. Kyubey: (Off Screen) A magical girl's old body is nothing more than a piece of external hardware. Your actual soul is given a much safer, compact form that is capable of controlling magic much more efficiently.

Overpass

Kyubey continue to explain in a neutral fashion, in front of Madoka's and Kyouko's faces of horror. Kyubey: It's part of my job, when I complete a magical girl's contract. I extract your souls and turn them into Soul Gems. Kyouko: What the hell did you do to us? In anger, Kyouko seizes at Kyubey by its ears. Kyouko: You bastard! You basically turned us into zombies! Kyubey: Isn't it more convenient? Even if your heart is torn to shreds, or you lose every drop of blood, your body can be fixed in no time with magical healing. You're basically invincible, provided that your Soul Gem is intact. Isn't that far more advantageous than fighting with a human body full of vital organs? Madoka: That's terrible... That's too awful. No a hint of apology from Kyubey, only confusion. Kyubey: You're all the same. You always react like this when you're told what's really going on. I don't get it at all. Why are humans so touchy about the placement of their souls? Kyouko: ...Ugh. Kyouko trembles in anger. Madoka bust into tears, holding Sayaka's body tightly. Homura returns. She returns Sayaka's Soul Gem to Sayaka's hand. In a moment, Sayaka jolts suddenly and opens her eyes. Sayaka: ..Ah... Sayaka, dazed and confused, looks around. Sayaka: ...What? What's wrong?


Episode 6 - Draft 0 Investigation

--Can Kyubey detect it when Homura use magic? Gen: I rewrote this entire section in Draft 0. The sequence where, "Homura request Sayaka to avoid conflict with Kyouko, and Sayaka relies this city is mine" was cut. I also adjusted the last words simply, so the whole truth regarding Soul Gems was revealed in this episode.

Episode 7: Can You Face Your True Feelings?

Episode 10: I won't Depend on Anyone Anymore