The malevolent spirits grow bolder, and Aiko's control over her powers weakens. The darkness in her begins to manifest physically, causing her body to show signs of decay. She tries to hide it from her friends, but the transformation is becoming harder to conceal.

Aiko (looking at her reflection, horrified): "No... it's happening. I can't stop it."

Hiroshi (entering unexpectedly): "Aiko? What's wrong? You look... pale."

Aiko (turning away): "It's nothing. Just... stay away from me, Hiroshi. I don't want you to see me like this."

Hiroshi (taking her hand): "I'm not leaving you. We'll find a way to stop it, together."

Aiko discovers that Hiroshi has been hiding a terrible secret. He is not only connected to the supernatural but is also a descendant of the very sorceress who cursed her family. His family's mission has been to prevent the curse from being broken, as they believe its removal would unleash a greater evil.

Aiko (shocked): "You knew all along? Your family is the reason I'm cursed? You've been lying to me!"

Hiroshi (guilty): "It's not that simple. My family's duty is to keep the balance between life and death. If the curse is broken, it could release something far worse."

Aiko (furious): "And you thought you'd just watch as I lose myself to this curse? I trusted you!"

Hiroshi: "I wanted to protect you. I didn't want this, but I can't let you break the curse. It's too dangerous."