Episode 6.
The mascot reveals that becoming a magical girl is something akin to a golem or lich. That's... a little weird. Actually, even Crazy Spear Girl is surprised.
I guess that sorta explains why the phylacteries need to be "cleaned" and not simply "recharged."
Also, the mascot is getting really creepy. Even moreso than emotionless girl.
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There never was a post. Swamp gas from a weather balloon was trapped in a thermal pocket and refracted the light from Venus.