You're right about the character development... If you compare the characters from the current ones to the one where they haven't met Hino... you can really tell the difference... That's what great about it.. There is a definite change because of Hino..
Being fake, its really hard to get by it.. so you mean she's not over it? I guess that is to be expected.. You can't just ignore the effort everyone's doing to improve their skills and to be able to play gracefully and with feelings.. Seeing the pressure and sacrifice they're making to play well, and looking at yourself playing only because of the magic.. you're bound to feel guilty..
Anyway, me too.. If I were her, I'd practice in secret until I can achieve the same skill as I play using magic... that way, the lie can now become the truth...