Madoka Kaname, Homura Akemi and others in “Unfinished Business”

Madoka Kaname

I keep thinking "if only I listened to you before".

Homura Akemi

If you had, it wouldn't have changed Mami Tomoe's fate. [Madoka sighs] I was able to change yours, though. That's good. So at least I saved one person. I'm glad about that.

Madoka

Um, you know, Homura, I get the feeling you're a veteran at this, too. I mean, like Mami, but different.

Homura

Perhaps. I can't deny it.

Madoka

And I guess...you've seen lots of people die horribly, haven't you?

Homura

I have.

Madoka

How many?

Homura

I gave up counting long ago.

Madoka

And her (Mami's) place...Is it just gonna stay like that?

Homura

Most likely. She didn't really have any family to speak of...and it'll be a very long time before she's reported missing.

Madoka

Then...no one's gonna notice Mami's dead?

Homura

It can't be helped. If you die in a labyrinth, your body stays there. That means in this world, she'll be considered a missing person forever. It's a fate all magical girls can look forward to eventually.

Madoka

That's awful! She was all alone. She fought to protect everyone! And now no one will know she's gone? That's horrible!

Homura

It's a condition of the contract we make in exchange for our powers. We are not protectors. We fight for the sake of our wishes and this is how we pay for them. If we die and no one remembers us, I guess that's just the way it is.

Madoka

I'll remember her. I'll never forget her. Never! I promise!

Homura

I see. Mami Tomoe's lucky. She'd be happy to hear that. How I envy her.

Madoka

I won't forget you either! I swear I won't forget you, Homura...and how you saved us yesterday! I'm always going to remember you! [Homura doesn't respond] Homura...?

Homura

You're too kind.

Madoka

Huh?

Homura

Remember this...and take it to heart: kindness sometimes leads to even greater tragedy.