*Huff* *Pant* Please allow me to have a little break…

Are you okay? Here, drink some water.

Th-Thank you… *Gulp*

You've got a lot of talent to be able to memorize so many lines in one go, Dia.

Only because you're a phenomenal teacher. The words of someone who lives and breathes theater truly do have a lot of weight behind them.

What? D-Do you really think so? It makes me so happy to hear you say that!

We don't have much time left, but… Could you teach me about one last thing?

Of course, what is it?

I don't quite understand how the mermaid princess actually feels. Why does she turn into foam without ever getting to express what she wants to say?

When you're performing a role that is so different from yourself, how can you properly express all of those emotions in the lines?

Hmm, good question… How about trying to savor the differences between your true self and the role that you're playing, right until the end?

Savor…the differences?

Yes! If you try to completely change into someone else, it's bound to look awkward.

So try to imagine why she says these things, and really have fun with it, Dia.

Have fun with it, you say? *Giggle* I think I understand. Okay, I'll try my best to enjoy myself!

Please do!

Oh no! It's already time to change into your costume and go on standby.

I'll show you where to come in from and where to stand on the stage. I'll be with you every step of the way, so don't worry, okay?

If you get nervous, just take some deep breaths!

Thank you so much, Shizuku. Right then, time to get out there and give it my all!

[Fade in/out.]

“And on that day during that shimmering, golden sunset…I was the girl pushing my way through those crashing waves, embracing you to keep you alive.”

“Why don't you see me?”

“Just merely being by your side… That alone brought me such happiness.”

Here comes the end! Hang in there, Dia!

“Alas! And now, my body becomes but a speck of foam lost in the shining sea.”

“Someday, be that day distant or near, I hope that you'll look out across the rippling sea and be reminded of me. Farewell, my dear prince…”

[Fade in/out.]

I-Is it over?

Dia, that was absolutely amazing!

G-Goodness, wait! Please don't latch on to me so suddenly like that!

I'm sorry, but you were truly wonderful! When I thought about you actually turning into foam and being lost to the sea, I started crying…

I'm not going to disappear into foam or anything. Come now, dry your tears. We must call Riko and Maki over to do the curtain call.

Okay!