Ep. 4: Haru protects Kuroyukihime from a car while confronting Takumu's true identity

4

Haru avoids using the backdoor to evade detection, but notices Kuroyukihime acting strangely when he discusses his closeness to Chiyuri. Gossip club students suggest Kuroyukihime genuinely likes him, a claim he rejects. During a walk, Haru accepts being a pawn, earning a slap from Kuroyukihime. Suddenly, a car driven by an erratic Araya speeds toward them, forcing entry into the Accel World. Kuroyukihime confesses her love and executes Physical Full Burst, depleting her Burst Points to push Haru to safety, resulting in her being struck. Taken to intensive care, she becomes vulnerable to Burst Linkers, prompting Haru to stay overnight. At dawn, Haru observes Takumu arriving and deduces he is the real Cyan Pile. With seconds remaining, Haru challenges Takumu to a Brain Burst match to prevent him from attacking Kuroyukihime.