Akira becomes increasingly conflicted between her loyalty to her friends and her growing responsibilities as a protector of the ley lines. Her trust in Yuto begins to waver as secrets about his past emerge, and Rina starts to suspect that Akira is hiding something major.

Scene 1: Rina's Confrontation

Akira's strange behavior becomes too much for Rina to ignore. After days of dodging questions, Rina corners Akira after school. The tension that has been building between them finally breaks.

Rina: "Akira, I don't care what it is. Just talk to me. You've been acting like a completely different person lately!"

Akira: (defensive) "I told you, it's nothing. Just... please, drop it."

Rina: (hurt) "Nothing? We're best friends! You don't think I notice when something's wrong? You're always disappearing, always tired, like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders."

Akira wants to tell her everything, but she can't risk putting Rina in danger.

Akira (whispering): "I can't, Rina. It's not safe."

Rina: "Not safe? What are you talking about? What's going on, Akira?"

Before Akira can answer, she senses the presence of a shadow nearby and is forced to leave abruptly, further straining her friendship with Rina.

Scene 2: Yuto's Revelation

Later, Akira confronts Yuto about the overheard conversation regarding her destiny. She demands to know the truth about his motives, and Yuto finally reveals more of his past.

Akira: "I heard you. You said I wasn't ready... what are you hiding from me?"

Yuto (serious): "It's not what you think. There are forces at play here, Akira, things bigger than both of us. I was sent to watch over you, yes. But it's not just about protection... it's about preparing you."

Yuto explains that he comes from an ancient order sworn to protect the ley lines and those like Akira who can wield their power. His job is to ensure that Akira is strong enough to face the shadows when the time comes—but if she fails, everything could be lost.

Akira: (angrily) "So I'm just a tool to you? Another mission?"

Yuto: "No! It's not like that. I didn't expect... I didn't expect to care this much."

Yuto's vulnerability catches Akira off guard. For the first time, she realizes that he, too, is struggling under the weight of responsibility.