Determined to uncover the truth, Mariana researched the medallion and discovered that it was an ancient magical artifact capable of granting wishes, but with a price. The price was true happiness, which would be replaced by a fleeting and superficial illusion. Desperate to regain her real life, Mariana sought the help of an old witch who lived on the outskirts of the city. The witch explained to her that the only way to break the curse was to perform an act of true altruism that expected nothing in return.